I Have One Friend!

I believe in signs! I'm not talking about the red colored 'Stop' signs or the yellow 'Watch for Water' signs. I obey those. I believe in astrological signs, but what I am talking about tonight are cosmic signs. The kind of signs that are sent to us, pointing—us into another direction to take—or what I like to call, 'The Heavy Heavenly Hints' made to get our attention!

Two weeks ago, when Ben was down here working, he told us that he had signed up with Facebook, and was having fun with it! He told us that he was just learning all of the ropes, but he was really enjoying it.

Last week, when Ben was down here working, he told us that he loved Facebook! He went on to tell us about all of these old friends that he had reconnected with, etc. I thought it sounded pretty cool, but didn't have a clue as to what Facebook was about.

Then this morning, when I checked my e-mail. I had two new e-mails. The first e was from a friend, announcing that he had joined Facebook, and he invited me to checkout his Facebookt, join it, and be one of his friends.

Then my second e-mail was from my good friend, Fay, up in Canada, asking me to please post this note, because Dwight Yoakam had just joined Facebook, and wanted to let his fans know about it. I love Dwight and he has done so much to help our rescue ranch—I had no problem posting this note:

Dwight Yoakam, country music performer, actor and friend of Utopia is looking for friends! Facebook friends, that is! He’s looking to expand his internet presence during this time before his next album so everyone will know what he’s up to. Anyone remember that shampoo commercial…. If you tell 2 friends, and they tell 2 friends, and so on? That’s the kind of thing he’s looking for!

DYs management is committed to keeping his Facebook up-to-date with news about his music, movie and concerts, here’s what they’re saying: “We will be using the fan page as our primary Facebook spot for Dwight, but first, we have to get everyone over there!!!!”. For those of you who are active on Facebook, and have lots of Facebook Friends, you are cordially invited to join Dwight’s Facebook, here’s the direct link: http//www.facebook.com/pages/Dwight-Yoakam/7178551770?sid=1dda391e3ca80c8c17caecc1e98b1555&ref=s

If you are so inclined, please send a message to each one of your friends by going under "compose new message" and invite them to join DY's FAN page by giving them the link. You may be able to add all of your friends with the stroke of ONE key if you put them on one "friends” list.

There’s also his online Fan Club, which will remain "the" spot for perks you can't get on those public pages… exclusive photos, videos, info, contests, meet & greets with Dwight, etc. etc. Check it out on www.Route23Club.com and join today!

This afternoon, after spending thirty minutes over at the Lodge, trying to help Kinky build a fire, in his fireplace—using wet wood—we finally had a fire blazing, and it was burning full steam, too! After completing that project— Trigger returned me safely to the rescue ranch!

When I walked into the trailer, Oprah was on—talking to the founder of Facebook! What another Facebook deal? I sat down and watched her show. Near the end of her segment with this young man—Carol called. I confess, I let the machine take her call, so I could finish watching the deal about Facebook.

As Oprah talked—Carol talked. "Nancy, this is Carol. I was wondering if I could come over there—I have something really big for y'all!"

As soon as Oprah was done talking—I called Carol. "Carol, we're here, we would love for you to come over! Did you just see the deal on Oprah about Facebook?"

"Yes!" Carol said. "It sounds really cool!"

"I know! Tony watched it with me, and he is signing up on Facebook—right now! I'm going to sign up, too! Give me five minutes, so I can go down and open up our gate. Bye!"

Ten minutes later, Carol was inside our trailer, with her special delivery, and within minutes, we were all laughing! A few minutes later, Tony announced, "I'm now a member of Facebook!" Carol and I went over to his laptop and took a look.

"I want to be on Facebook, too!" Carol announced. "Let's check it out! Do you know anyone on Facebook?"

"Ben is," Tony and I answered. "Carol, you're welcome to get on Facebook using my laptop," I said. Carol pulled up a chair, sat down and went to Facebook!

Carol had to sign up on Facebook, and then she tried to find Ben! We didn't know how to find him, and Carol kept coming up blank, so I called Ben. "Hi Ben, it's Nancy..." Then I put Carol on the phone with Ben. A few minutes later, Carol passed Ben off to me. "Ben, I am putting you on speaker phone now, okay?"

Within minutes, Carol was a friend on Ben's Facebook! Then they started instant messaging each other, and it was totally hilarious! Then Carol starts laughing out loud and says, "Look! It says that I have one friend!" We burst out laughing! T. and C. were hooked!

I plan to sign up on Facebook tomorrow. Facebook was definitely a sign for me! It has been too much in my face! Y'all have a great evening! Here are a couple of pictures I took of them addicted to Facebook. The first one is of Tony and Carol and the second picture is Carol on the speaker phone with Ben:

Tony Rocks!

This morning, after George and his camera crew came out to scout around Echo Hill Ranch, for an upcoming photo shoot, for the book jacket, of Kinky's newest book—'Kinky Friedman's Celebrity Pet Files.' Tony and I began packing for Carol's and our Tuesday—Wednesday Vacation! Talk about excited—we started really getting excited after Buttermilk, Tony and I went to Kerrville to pick up our Rent-a-SUV! The minute that I saw it, I immediately named it Silver!

After signing a few forms, I gave them my credit card, and Silver was now ours for three days and totally free—I love credit cards! After handing over Silver's reins (keys) to Tony, T. and I played Paper or Scissors, out in the parking lot, to see who would get to take Silver back to our rescue ranch! Tone won. He was a rock and I was scissors. I guess you could say—Tony Rocks!

When we arrived back at the ranch, T. was all excited! "Nance! Silver has Sirius radio with Alpine speakers! And, I loved the way that he handled on the road!" Tony and I then started packing! First, the ice chest, and then we went down to the barn, so Tony could grab some of his many fishing rods, tackle, etc. "Tony, do you know where my pink fishing rod is?" I asked. "I'll fish, if you will bait my hook, and release my fish for me?
Okay?"

Tony laughed, "Nance, it is over there in that bucket, by the chop saw. I don't know why you can't bait your own hooks and release the fish? A lot of women bait and release their own fish. I know Carol does."

The thought of actually baiting something live to a fish hook, and removing a hook from some poor unlucky fish's mouth—made me sick and gave me goose bumps. "Never mind, Tony—I won't fish," I sulked, hoping that Tony would catch my bait—and he did! Thank goodness!

"Nancy, I'll bait your hook and release whatever you catch," Tone promised. I was so happy! "Nance, you're not planning on doing a lot of fishing down there—are you?"

"Oh no Tony, I'm not," I said. "I just want to do one cast—and get a picture of me holding the rod and reel, that's all, so I can blog about fishing with you, Rick, Leisa, Pete and Kelly, and John. You know that I hate fishing. I'm planning on doing some serious writing on the porch, while y'all fish." Tony then perked up for some reason.

Y'all would absolutely laugh your heads off, if you saw how much stuff that Tony and I are taking for our overnight excursion! We're talkin' two, big overstuffed duffel bags filled with clothes, three cameras, my laptop, our portable Bose, our four iPods, five rods and reels, my three mile walking DVD, a big ice chest filled with water, spirits and some Miles of Chocolate, cheese and crackers, Tony's Garmin GPS, cowboy boots and Crocs! And yes, I will be wearing my pink Justin Gypsy ropers! I sure hope that Carol isn't bringing a lot, because we might sink the boat, before we get to that island with the lighthouse!

Y'all have a great evening—I still have a lot more packing to do! Hi-O Silver!

We'll Be Coming Around The Mountain!

Today, our neighbor, our dog walking volunteer and good friend, Carol V., sent me an e-mail about our adventurous trip to Port Aransas, that we’ve been planning—another twenty-four hour get-a-way for Tone and me! We have worked out the details, and unfortunately Ben can’t go with us this time—even though Rick demanded that Ben bring a brick of his and Miles delicious chocolate—Miles of Chocolate.

After a couple of e-mails back and forth to Carol, Ben, Rick, John Kemmerly and Pete and Kelly—Tony and I are taking another vacation to the coast with Carol! And, we can’t wait! We’re talking a Blast—with a capital B!

When I called Rick and told him that Ben wasn’t going to be able to make it down there, he was really disappointed, until I told him that we would bring him and Leisa some of our Miles of Chocolate stash. I don’t know who is more excited about our trip, but I can tell you this, T. has already packed his bags and fishing equipment!

After all of the arrangements were set in stone, Buttermilk, Tony and I went to Kerrville to shop for our trip—Tone bought two new pairs of Wrangler jeans at Gibson’s, while I shopped for groceries over at HEB. He is planning on wearing a new pair to “The Riders In the Sky” concert, this weekend on Valentines Day, and he is taking both pair to Port A.

On our way back home, I said, “Tony, I am going to bring my guitar, so Rick and Pete and I can maybe play some music together, out on the porch by the lighthouse. It has been over a year and a half since I’ve played, and my callouses are completely gone from my fingers, but if I start strummin’ today —maybe my fingers won’t hurt so bad.” Tony liked my idea.

When we arrived back at the rescue ranch, Kinky had called and left two messages on our answering machine. When I called Kinky back, we discussed two things—our vacation to Port Aransas, and The Friedman’s serious low supply of chewgars. “Kinky, ‘Erb has just sent me an e-mail about him sending more ‘Chewgars’ and I promise you that we will only be gone for twenty-four hours or less.”

Here are some pictures of the incredibly great guitar, that my brother, Ronnie, custom built for me, which is signed by Willie Nelson and Billy Joe Shaver! Willie signed my guitar on March 28, 2003, when Kinky took Ben, Tony and me, as his guests, to a Willie concert at The Backyard in Austin, Texas! We spent over an hour on Willie’s bus—talk about fun! And Billy Joe, signed my guitar, two year later, after visiting Tony and me and singing two love songs to us, inside our trailer, several years ago!. He fell in love with Ronnie’s guitar, too! And, the last picture—Tony took of me today—tuning up my guitar. My fingers are killing me! Y’all have a great evening!

P.S. Just a reminder—I’m doing The Harley Show in the morning! I hope that y’all can catch the show at 7:45! And tomorrow Kinky, will be doing an interview with Bob Cole on KVET, 98.8 in Austin at 8:05! (Kinky has asked T. and me to please give him another wake up call—just in case he doesn’t wake up in time.)

Harley And Me!

This morning, I woke up at six o’clock, with a sore back. I was so glad that it was just sore, and not out! After feeding our dogs and three-legged cat, I sat down at the kitchen table, opened up my laptop, and then went—online. I went to utopiarescue. com first, to see which dog was going to be ‘Harley’s Pet of the Week!’ It was Christy Brinkley’s turn!

Next, I went to roseradio999.com/the_harley_Show_live.html and my jaw dropped! There was Harley sitting in the studio, talking away and being funny—and moving! I loved it!

Earlier this week, Tony and I had dropped by The Rose new location to see Harley, but he wasn’t there, but his better half, Becky, was! Harley’s wife, Becky, is a sweetheart! She gave Tone and me a full tour of the radio station, and before leaving, she told us that they are now web casting during Harley’s morning radio show—The Harley Show! And, that is why, I went to The Rose site this morning.

As I started fixing Tony’s and my breakfast, I enjoyed listening and watching Harley live! I’ve seen plenty of web casts before, but seeing my friend, doing his show live from the radio station, was too much fun! I listened and watched Harley, up until 7:44, then I muted the sound, picked up the phone, and punched in Harley’s phone number.

“Good morning Cousin Nancy! How are you doing today?”

“Hi Harley. I’m good and I’m doing bad, today,” I said, as I watched Harley with his headset on his head.

“What’s bad?” Harley asked.

“First, let me tell you the good news. Harley, I’m standing here, in the kitchen, watching you on my computer! That is so cool! Please wave at me.” Harley waved and waved and waved! And, it made me laugh! “I like that yellow shirt that you’re wearing, too.”

“Thank you Nancy,” Harley said. “Wow! My meter here, just jumped up, and it shows that a number of people have just come online, to watch The Harley Show web cast! That’s amazing! “Now, Cousin Nancy, tell me about your bad news.”

“The bad news is—my back is trying to go out on me...”

Harley and I talked about my back trouble, Christy Brinkley, our calendar giveaways, that he is doing, how Ben was doing, and Miles of Chocolate, and a few other things, then our conversation returned to his live show being web cast, again! “Harley, I love your live cast. Real soon, I’m going to get Kinky, Ben and Tony, to come down to the station with me, so the four of us can do your show live. How does that sound?”

I watched Harley give me a thumbs up, and say, “That sounds like it would be a lot of fun...” Then T. arrived, and he and I watched Harley as we ate and drank our breakfast! Tony loved it as much as I did!

This afternoon, Kinky and I had an appointment to meet with Geir Loe—to be interviewed, for some Scandinavian newspapers and magazines! At 1:30, Geir arrived, and went to the Lodge first, to interview Kinky. A little while later, Mr. Green Jeans, took Kinky and Geir over to the rescue ranch. After greetings and handshakes, Kinky said, “Nance, who is that man, back there with Tony?”

“The man is bringing Sam back to us, because his wife has just had some serious back surgery, and they are afraid, Sam might jump up on her. I’m not real sure which Sam it is, but the man told me that they had adopted him, over a year ago from us, and he is a black Labrador mix.” After that, the three of us went into Outer Space!

Before interviewing me, Geir and I visited a little while with Kinky. I liked Geir. He was a nice pleasant man, constantly smiling, and I loved listening to his Scandinavian accent. Tony then showed up in Outer Space, and the four of us visited a little longer. “I love Texas, and I vish I vere a cowboy,” Geir said, making his w’s sound like v’s. I loved it! For a second there, I thought about having a roping contest with Geir, but I decided not to, because of my aching back.

Kinky had to get back to the Lodge. “Nance, will you bring Geir back over to the Lodge, when y’all are done?” I told him that I would, then Kinky left Outer Space.

After a fun interview with Geir, we three left Outer Space, so Tone and I could give him a tour of the rescue ranch. We started over by the pig pen, then a man pulls up in his truck. He wanted to look at our dogs, and to possibly adopt one. I didn’t catch his name, but I invited him to join us for a tour.

Geir took many pictures of our dogs, petted them and talked to them, and our dogs loved it! We finished the tour with our great big dog, Mr. Ziffel, and Geir fell in love with him, as does everyone that comes out here. Then Kermit took Geir and me over to the Lodge to see Kinky.

Right off the bat, Kinky challenged Geir to an international game of pool! The game was fun to watch, because they both were evenly matched, and shooting at their best—until the Hummingbird Man, unfortunately, sank his eight ball into the wrong side pocket! (Just like he did with me, the other day!)

At 3:30, it was time for Geir to leave, so we went out front and took pictures, before his departure. Geir told me that he would send us copies of his articles, as soon as they were published—and I can’t wait to read them!

After Geir left, I returned to the rescue ranch and returned some phone calls. Around four o’clock, I went to my laptop, and decided to add a new link to my blog. As y’all well know, I am not a computer geek, unfortunately, but I did figure it out. On the right hand side, at the top of this page, I have added the link to The Harley Show, for anyone interested in listening and watching Harley and me on Thursday mornings at 7:45. I hope that y’all will check it out, and leave a comment, telling me where you watched it from! Here are some pictures that Tone took of Geir and me, and me—shooting Kinky and Geir! Y’all have a great evening, and thank you for reading my blog!

Peptol Bismol!

Tuesday, after the dog walking, Leisa and Rick took off for Kerrville, to get some groceries, I thought. Tony and I stayed behind, to talk to Lana about adopting, our two cute Poodles, Muffy and Max. After Lana left, so did T. and I. We went to Kerrville to run a couple of errands, and to buy some groceries, too.

When we were coming into Kerrville, Tone suggested that I call Rick and Leisa, to tell them that we were in Kerrville, too. “Where are y’all?” Rick asked.

“We’re in Buttermilk, and we just passed Albertsons,” I said. “Where are y’all?”

“We must have just passed each other,” Rick laughed. “Leisa and I are headed over to Bandera. I want to show her, Arkey Blues, and drink a beer there and shoot a game of pool with her. We will meet y’all back at the ranch in a couple of hours!”

“Did y’all go by Wolfmuelllers, and meet Sandy and Jon?”

“Yes, Cousin Nancy! We loved their book store, and we really liked them! Bye!”

Tony and I ran our errands, and then we ended up at HEB to pick up supplies. After a quick drive by cruise through the HEB isles—Buttermilk took us home.

When we pulled up to our closed gate, Rick and Leisa pulled up, too—and they followed us into the rescue ranch. After T. and I had put up our groceries, Rick and Leisa came inside the trailer—with more gifts for us! Talk about surprised!

“We went to Wolfmueller’s and had a blast, and we bought y’all this book. It is the best field guide to North American birds—here.” Rick said, as he handed me the book. “And, we brought you a new bird feeder, too, to add to your frontporch—and here is some thistle birdseed, guaranteed to attract all kinds of colorful finches!”

While Rick assembled the special made Finch feeder, at our breakfast bar, we discussed birds and bird watching. When Rick had our new bird feeder assembled, we went outside and filled it with thistle seeds, and then Rick hung it up! “I promise that the finches will be here soon. Y’all are going to love it!” Within an hour, we had over thirty or forty finches eating from that feeder! We loved it!

After a delicious healthy dinner, that we had all cooked up, we spent a portion of our evening, watching one of Tony’s favorite shows— ‘American Idol’ and we did a lot of laughing! The rest of the night was filled with sharing hilarious stories!

Wednesday morning, following another healthy breakfast, which included ‘Cousin Nancy’s Super Smoothie,’ Rick and Leisa began packing up their gear, so they could get back to Port A. When they were just about done packing, my dear friend, Ann, from Santa Fe, who is a world famous professional pet-sitter— drove up! We had been expecting her. Ann had come to see Tone and me, and to meet up with my sister Cindy, for a two day trip exploring the Texas Hill Country. Cindy and Ann have been best friends, since I was seven or eight years old, and once a year they make a point to see each other!

After introducing Rick, Leisa and Ann, Rick invited her and my sister to come down to Port A. for an island tour of the lighthouse. Then after hugs and handshakes, Leisa and Rick said their goodbyes, begged us to come see them, and then they drove away.

Thirty minutes later, my wonderful sister Cindy, arrived! Before Tony and I gave them a tour of the Space Ship and Outer Space, which her son, Tom had helped my brother, Ronnie, build for us—she hand delivered my Pepto Bismol Pink, Justin Gypsy boots, which I had purchased from Tom, a while back! Aren’t they adorable!

The minute that I opened up the box—I fell in love with my new cowgirl boots! After modeling them for everyone— Ann told me that she was going to purchase a pair of turquoise colored Justin Gypsy boots from Tom, at Cavender’s Boot City, at their South Austin location—before heading back to Santa Fe! Please note: If any of y’all want to buy some cowboy boots, please ask for Tom Roche—he will take care of you, I promise—he’s working on commission, and I love him!

The four of us, spent a couple of hours laughing, and catching up with each others news, in Outer Space, and it was so much fun for me! Before Ann and Cindy left for their expedition, I treated them to some of Ben’s and Miles’— ‘Miles of Chocolate,’ and they were blown away, with how delicious it was! And, they both vowed to buy some ‘Miles of Chocolate,’ as soon as possible, then they—took off for another one of their fun, yearly adventures!

Today, my dear friend Cindy P. and I had to cancel our two hour horseback riding, due to the weather—the weatherman got it right today. I was sick about it, because I wanted to wear my new pink boots, oh well. But, I am pleased to announce that I have caught up with all of my paperwork, and I plan to have a great evening with Tony—starting right now! Y’all have a great evening, too!

My Dogs Are Killing Me!

Yesterday morning, after breakfast, the first thing I did, was to replace the old, Eternal Squirrel—#2, from Yoda’s grave, with my backup Eternal Squirrel—#3. Tony helped me replace it. When the new Eternal Squirrel #3 was securely bolted down, I took Eternal Squirrel #2 , and put it on the kitchen counter of my Space Ship.

At 9:30, Kinky called, and I went over to the Lodge for a visit. At 11:00, I returned to the rescue ranch, to find Linda T. and Tony visiting with Mr. Ziffle. I joined them, and then gave Linda, the race car driver, who had offered to drive me to the Houston calendar signing events, a tour of our rescue ranch. Linda fell in love with our dogs!

After our tour, I invited her into the Space Ship, and she loved it, too! I knew that she would. Then we left my rockin’ ship, and went into Outer Space, and had a very fun visit!

When we left Outer Space, I invited her into our trailer, and she thought it was fabulous! Tony came inside, around 1:00, after giving a couple, and their children, a tour of our rescue ranch—and he was hungry! I invited Linda to eat lunch with us. I made homemade, organic—zucchini soup. And yes—she loved it and was very impressed with Jaws! We had ‘Miles of Chocolate’ for dessert—and she loved it, too! Everyone loves ‘Miles of Chocolate!’ I loved it!

Following our lunch, Linda and I started walking the dogs! She first took Nash, aka Ghost Dog. I was hoping to take Alfie for a walk, too, but she didn’t want to go. Linda and I walked all over Echo Hill Ranch, and Nash enjoyed every minute of it!

Next, Linda walked Maggie, and I walked Happy! Maggie and Linda led the way, as I stopped and let Happy sniff and smell, and mark every other tree. After another long walk, as we were returning them to their pen—Don and Susan, the great snowbirds from Canada, rode in on their bicycles! They were ready to walk some dogs, before leaving Koyote Ranch—this morning—to head further south, for warmer weather!

While I fetched my camera, from our trailer, Tony hooked Susan and Don up—with Ashley Judd and, her roommate Lucy! Off they went—into the wild blue yonder! Tony then leashed up, our other Maggie, and Linda and I took off for our third long walk! Maggie, Teddy Roosevelt’s sister, had a wonderful time!



When Linda, Maggie and I returned to the rescue ranch, Tony drove up in Kermit to help us return Maggie to her pen. “Nance,” Tony said. “It’s three o’clock.”


“My dogs are killing me,” I said, stealing John Candy’s famous line, about his feet hurting, in one of my most favorite movies— ‘Trains, Planes and Automobiles.’ “Y’all, I’m truly exhausted, now.”

“I’m not,” Linda rapidly replied. “I can walk some more dogs!”

“You, can’t Linda,” I said. “We close at three, and Tony and I have to get to Kerrville, to buy some groceries—before dark. I’m sorry.”

She understood. Fifteen minutes later, Linda hugged me, and told me that she would come back, next Saturday—then she drove away, in a cloud of dust!

Because I was so tired, Tony offered to go to Kerrville without me, to buy our groceries. I wanted to go with him, but I took him up on his offer, and let him go alone. Ten minutes later, Susan, Ashley Judd, Lucy and Don arrived back at the rescue ranch!

I walked down to Lucy’s and Ashley’s pen, to help put them back into their pen, but I was too late. Just as I walked up—our two super dogs were back in their pen—taking turns—drinking water!

Susan and Don and I walked back to the trailer, and we had a fun conversation, about Canada and Texas. Before they left, I showed them my newly decorated Space Ship, and they thought it was too cool! We then traded e-mail addresses. Before leaving, Don told me, that they would be returning to the Texas Hill Country sometime in March, and they promised to swing by the rescue ranch—for a visit! I can’t wait—I love these people! We hugged and then said our goodbyes, and then they rode off.

I went back to the trailer and had twenty-seven messages, on my machine! One of them was from Tony’s and my dear friend, Garnet, in Utopia! “Nancy, this is Garnet. Sandy and I want to buy a calendar! And, I want you and Tony to please sign it! I just read your blog about the calendars, being nearly sold out! Please ask Maribeth to bring us one, and we will send a check back with her!”

I phoned Garnet, and told her that I was fixin’ to take a calendar over to the Lodge, so Maribeth could deliver it to her.

Then Tony arrived! “Tony please sign this calendar for Garnet and Sandy.” Tony signed it, as I unpacked our groceries. Then I drove over to the Lodge, and asked Maribeth to please deliver it to Garnet and Sandy.

Maribeth said she would. We sat, and visited for about an hour. Then I came back home and went to bed very early.

P.S. Great news! Sasha and David are coming out here, on Tuesday, to deliver more cat food for our neighbor’s cats! Yeah! We can’t wait to see Sasha, again, and to meet David!

Day -O!

I am sorry for not blogging last night. I wanted to, but some good friends of ours came over.

Yesterday, was a great day, in fact, it was a greater day, than my usual great days, because we had an adoption! Here’s how my day went:

Yesterday morning, I got up earlier than usual, because I knew that a lot of people were coming out to visit our rescue ranch, take tours, walk our dogs and maybe have an adoption!

I always give tours of our trailer, because everyone, who comes out, wants to see it, go into Outer Space with us, go into my Space Ship and to also see my writing cabin. I don’t mind doing it at all, because I enjoy showing it off. So, before sunup, I had fed my furry friends, vacuumed, dusted, and washed a load of clothes!

The reason for my homework, was so I wouldn’t be embarrassed, as I was, a week ago Saturday, when I gave Sasha, Ken, Rebecca and Jack, a tour of our trailer—it was dirty, but not real dirty. It just needed vacuuming and dusting.

Linda T., up in Harker Heights, was going to be the first to arrive, she was driving three hours, to come walk our dogs all day, and I could not wait to meet her! She’s the nice race car driver who had offered to drive me to Houston, this weekend, to do calendar signings with Kinky and Little Jewford, then get me back home safely. How sweet is that!

Around 9:30, she left a message on the machine, telling me that she could not make it, and she was sick about it! She told me that she had to take her brother-in-law to the Emergency Room, around midnight! She had been up most of the night, and was totally exhausted, but he was okay. I was disappointed, but completely understood, and thank goodness he was okay.

Around 10:30, our wonderful neighbor, Heather, showed up with some members of her family! Tony and I gave them a tour, and it was a lot of fun! We finished up the tour at Mr. Ziffle’s pen, and everyone fell in love with him! Mr. Ziffle is such a great dog. He is highly intelligent, and is about two years old.

When it was time for them to return to Heather’s ranch, Tony and I didn’t want them to leave, because we were enjoying their visit, so much! Before driving away, Heather told us that she will see us again, during the holidays! We can’t wait!

As soon as they drove off, a van full of people drove up—they were from Dallas, visiting their mother, Sugar, who lives nearby, and they wanted a tour! So Tony and I gave them a tour, and they fell in love with our dogs, too! Then Clint, who works at Central Market in Dallas, saw Tony’s hat and said, “Miles of Chocolate, I have a cap just like that! We carry their chocolate and pear bread! People love it! Have you tried it?”

“Yes,” Tony said. “Ben Welch, who works out here, a few days a month, is Miles partner.”

“I know Miles,” Clint said. “I’ve not met Ben, yet.” We visited a little while longer and then they drove away.

Tony and I then came inside the trailer, and I made us homemade asparagus soup—it was delicious! Just after I had cleaned up the kitchen, Paul drove up, with his four best friends, that he and his wife had adopted from us—Susie, Gracie, Stella and Yetti! Paul and his crew didn’t stay very long, but we had a great visit! Tony and I love Paul! He and his wife, Marty have done so much to help our ranch!

Around 2:30, Tony left the trailer, while I was returning some phone calls. At three-fifteen, Tony came inside the trailer, to tell me that Emily had just been adopted, and I needed to fill out her adoption papers! “Tony this is great! I’m sorry, I didn’t know that they had arrived. Our dogs didn’t bark.” I quickly filled out our adoption form for Emily! Then we got into Kermit, and he took us out of the rescue ranch, to where there car was parked—outside of the ranch.

The reason they were parked outside of the ranch, was because earlier in the week, Jessica had called me, to tell me, that they were the ones who had adopted Teddy Roosevelt, from us last year. She said that Teddy was the greatest dog, and their family loved him, so much! Jessica told me that their old dog had passed away, and they wanted to adopt another dog from us, so Teddy could have a running buddy! She had asked if it would be okay to bring Teddy along, so they could try him out with whoever they picked. My answer was yes, but I did ask her to please park outside of the rescue ranch, so T.R. would not upset our dogs. She kept her word!

When Tone and I pulled up in Kermit, Teddy Roosevelt and Emily were best friends—with tails high and wagging! I was so happy for Emily, I teared up for a second, when I saw what a beautiful dog Teddy had turned into, and was thrilled that Emily had found her forever home with this great family! Tony and I visited with Jessica and her husband, Hays, as we watched their two beautiful children, Jackson and Summer, playing with Teddy Roo and Emily!

After Jessica filled out Emily’s adoption form, it was time for this lovely family to leave. We hugged and shook hands, and then they loaded up Teddy, and then Emily into their van! Tony took these pictures!


After they drove away, I told Tony, “Emily came back to the rescue ranch, because it wasn’t her forever home. This one is!” Then I teared up, again.

Y’all this is what it is all about! I love my job, and here’s a shout out to Jessica, Hays, Summer and Jackson—Y’all Rock!

P.S. I can’t wait to tell you what Tony and I are fixin’ to do! During breakfast this morning, we have decided to...

To Be Continued...

A Family Affair!

Today, has been another great day—as usual! It started out with Ben and me going over to visit Kinky at seven-thirty this morning! It was a blast—to say the least!

We had three sets of visitors come out today. Mike and Ben S., from Dallas, and Catherine Berry, who helps us adopt out our dogs, up in Buchanan Dam.

Katherine arrived around 2:15, and we had a short, but fun visit in Outer Space. She loved going into Outer Space with me, and she really loved my Space Ship! I also introduced her to Miles of Chocolate and of course—she loved it! She told me that she could not wait to get home to buy some online! We then went over to the Lodge to visit Kinky and Russ.

We had a fun visit, sitting outside by The Friedman Family Bond Orchard. As Catherine and I were fixing to leave, Russ asked if I he could come over to the rescue ranch, so he could eat some of Tony’s and my Miles of Chocolate. Of course, my answer was yes.

Ten minutes later, Tony, Ben, Catherine, and me were sitting in Outer Space, watching Russ eat a chunk of the best chocolate—on this planet!

Well, tomorrow is the big day—Kinky and I will be at the Barnes & Nobles Arboretum at 2:00 to sign copies of ‘Celebrating Our 10 Years of Rescue’—2009 Calendar, which by the way, is selling faster than a GTO! We are so proud of it! I can’t believe that it has been over ten years since we started the Utopia Animal Rescue Ranch—it still seems like it was just yesterday!

I am leaving tomorrow morning, bright and early, and driving up to Ronnie and Nita’s house, in Dripping Springs. Ronnie is the best brother anyone could wish for! I called him earlier this week and asked him if he could drive me to Barnes & Noble, because I am terrified of Austin traffic. He said yes! I then asked him, if I could also spend the night with them, because it will be dark, and I cannot drive at night—again—he said yes! Yes, he is great—I love him!


From our gate to Ronnie and Nita’s gate, it is exactly one hundred miles—it takes me two hours to drive it. My plan is to sneak out of Ronnie’s house, at the break of dawn, and get back down here by eight-thirty—Sunday morning.

My best friend and big sister, Cindy, offered to drive me to the Arboretum, but I had to turn her offer down, because she and Ray live thirty minutes away from Ronnie’s, in south Austin, and that would make my return trip thirty minutes longer. Since time is going to be of the essence on Sunday, I need to get back here as early as possible, because I will be at the Barnes & Noble San Pedro, in San Antonio, with Kinky—to sign our calendars at 2:30. Tony is going to drive me there.

Well, Ronnie has just called me, and told me some really exciting news! “Nance, I just talked to Cindy! She and Ray are going to come over here Saturday night for dinner—so we can have an early celebration of her birthday!”

I was so thrilled that I was going to get to see Cindy and Ray, too! Her birthday is going to be this coming Tuesday, November 18th, and in honor of her—I plan to blog another story about her! She is one super sister!

Y’all, I am tuckered out now. This is going to be one fast paced weekend for me. I will try to blog on Sunday before going to San Antonio. Have a great weekend! Love, Cousin Nancy

Kinky Will Be On Imus Friday Morning!

Kinky just called to tell me that he will be on Imus at 6:30 Texas Time! Today has been great! This morning after taking care of a little paperwork, I went outside to visit with Ben, Aaron and Tony down at the barn. After taking care of the dogs, they helped Tony with his building project—a standup shaker-sifting box, to use for his arrowhead hunting! And, it is first class, with a latch, hinges, and a pull up rope! I will take a picture tomorrow and show it to y'all!

Ben, Tony and I then went to Kerrville for some supplies. When we returned to the rescue ranch, Kinky's friends, Don and Bob, came by to checkout the rescue ranch. When they reached our trailer, I invited them to go into Outer Space with Tony, Ben and me for a visit. The conversation flowed out there, it was fun, and filled with laughter!

With Ben there, I bragged about Miles of Chocolate, and then served them some of it. Bob and Don were totally impressed, and loved it and cleaned the plate! I also gave Bob, who is from Louisiana, who adopted Mama, our three-legged Pit Bull, last February—a beautiful picture of Mama—that Tony had taken of her. He loved it! Then, Tony decided to show them—Tony's Flashlight! When Tony came outside with it—everyone laughed! Then Don took a picture of Tony with his gigantic spotlight.

When Bob and Don needed to get back over to the Lodge, I told them about my Space Ship, and then we went inside it. "I had planned on doing all of the work, using my nail gun and chop saw, but I only got to do very little of the work, because Tony, Ben and Aaron wanted to do it. So, they took turns, chopping, nailing etc. And they did a great job. I love it!"

When we left my Space Ship, I walked with Don and Bob, down to the barn, and gave each of them, a loaf of the Miles of Chocolate delicious Pear Bread. As they were thanking me and Ben for their loaves—Cindy drove up! I said goodbye to the men, and then walked back towards the trailer, to greet Cindy.

Cindy had brought a DVD, that she wanted to show to Tony and me, but before we watched it, Tony and I grabbed some Brie cheese, from France, that we had purchased from HEB—and the Monet Entertainer Crackers, that Rick and Leisa had left for us. While the three of us ate the delicious cheese and crackers, Cindy told us about fixing Drew's asparagus soup recipe, using her newly purchased more expensive blender! After the Brie disappeared—we shoved her DVD, 'Brule—Live At Mt. Rushmore' into our player and watched it!

It is an amazing DVD, and it gave me good goosebumps! Tony and I could not believe how great it was! Before Cindy left, she gave me the info on it. "Go to zangomusic.com and type in Brule—Live at Mt. Rushmore! As soon as Cindy had driven off into the sunset—I ordered it and we can't wait until it gets here! It is awesome!

I hope that y'all have a great evening and thank you for reading my blog! I love writing!

There's Something About Mary and Mari!

It is now five o’clock, Sunday evening. I just wrote a check, to a very nice tow truck driver, for bringing Buttermilk back to the rescue ranch, for Tony and me, and it feels so good to be home. I was planning on writing a blog last night, about yesterday’s fun events, but last night around ten thirty—I almost died or at least that’s what Maribeth told me this morning. There is much to tell, so here goes. I’ll start from the very beginning, and I pray that this doesn’t turn into another saga.

Saturday morning, I cleaned the trailer, because I was so excited about John’s mom, the great Mary S. from Lake Charles, Louisiana, her daughter, Leslie, and Leslie’s son, Sam—coming out to visit us! John met them out on Highway 16, so they wouldn’t get lost, and they arrived at the rescue ranch around eleven-fifteen!

It was all handshakes and hugs, when they first arrived, and then I invited them for a visit in Outer Space! As soon as Mary S. walked into Outer Space, she said, “I love Outer Space and look, there’s your Buddha Pug! I love it, Nancy!”

I had a blast visiting with all of them! Mary S. is one very entertaining, charming and extremely funny storyteller! I feel like I have known Mary all of my life, and to be in the same room or in Outer Space with her—is a real treat. She told us some of the funniest stories, that kept me shaking with laughter, as did everyone else in Outer Space!

Unfortuntely, Richard, Mary’s husband, was not able to make the trip with them, because he had to stay home to take care of their two children—Yorkies! During our visit, I discovered that Sam is somewhat famous—in the Louisiana fishing world. He caught an eight pound Speckled Trout —and his picture appeared in the ‘Louisiana Sportsman” magazine with his catch of the day! “Sam,” Tony said. “Where did you catch him?”

“Big Lake, Louisiana,” Sam replied proudly.

“I always catch mine in the mouth!” Tony teased. Sam laughed.

Our visit in Outer Space, ended way to soon for me. After we left Outer Space, John and I took his family on a Grand Tour of the rescue ranch. First, we showed them our trailer, then my writing cabin, and then the dogs. About halfway through the tour, Tony drove up in Kermit, “Nance, Rebecca has just been adopted! I will bring Nancy back to y’all, as soon as she fills out the adoption papers.” I climbed inside Kermit and Tony drove me to the trailer.

Ten minutes later, Rebecca of Sunny Brook Farm, was officially adopted, to a very nice family, with a young son! John had finished the grand tour, and they were able to meet Rebecca’s new family, and wish them and Rebecca good luck. I was on cloud nine, as Rebecca drove away to her new home! Fingers crossed—it will stick.

After they had left, we left for Kinky’s, for a short visit, and a tour of the Friedman Family Bone Orchard, which I think impressed them.

Then we returned to the rescue ranch. It was now time for Mary S. and her beautiful family to leave, because they had made plans to eat lunch in Fredericksburg and to shop. “We will see you later at Wolfmueller’s for Kinky’s book signing,” Mary said. “Don’t eat too much. Dinner is at six-thirty. See y’all at Wolfmuellers.” Then they drove away.

Tony and I ate peanut butter sandwiches for lunch, and then I took a short thirty minute nap, with Hank, Little Girl, Toto, Thunder and our cat, Lucky. I love sleeping with them—it’s the best! When I awoke, it was time to get ready to go to Kinky’s book signing. I decided to wear a new shirt that I had bought at a hippie store in Kerrville and my new pink slacks. Little did I know, what an impression it would make later, on my friends, at Wolfmuellers Books.

We arrived around three-thirty, at Sandy and Jon’s store, and it was packed! Kinky was busily signing one book after another, so Tony and I visited with Sandy and Jon and Mary Jo. Then we visited with Dylan and Sage Ferrero, Max Swafford, Copper Love, Beth B. and Sue, and Irene Van Winkle. We were in good company.

Around fourish, John and his family arrived, and it was like a family reunion—all over again! And, as always, many hugs, handshakes and laughter. Kinky took a short break, and joined us in a brief conversation, and then he went back to signing his books for his adoring fans.


While that was going on Mary S. handed me a present, that she had purchased in Fredericksburg—two adorable place mats, with the cutest pictures of dogs on them! I loved them! Then Irene Van Winkle, a fabulous writer for the ‘West Kerr Current’ newspaper, told me about her new book, “Family Chronicles.” I immediately purchased a copy, and she signed it to Tony and me. I can’t wait to read it. It is an historical account of the first families of Kerr County.

Then Mary S. found Tony’s postcards, and she bought several of them! When Irene heard her talking about Tony’s postcards, she went over and bought several, too. Then Irene had Tony sign them! Everyone’s favorite postcards, seemed to be the Cardinal in the metal dish, and the fighting deer, which I named, “Kung Fu 101!”

Oh yes, I almost forgot, during this entire time at Wolfmueller’s, everyone I knew complimented me on my outfit. I knew I didn’t look great, and I was feeling a little like a fish out of water, in my new hippie clothes. I guess, none of them have ever seen me in anything else—because my standard attire up until today, has always been my rescue ranch sweatshirt and pants, with a white Kinky cap on my head, to cover my white hair, along with my monogrammed “N” skipping shoes. In fact, Kinky didn’t even recognize me when he first saw me. “I like your outfit, Nance!” Kinky said. “I really like it.”

Okay, let me get back to the story—enough said about my wardrobe—it’s boring. Around four-forty, “There’s Cousin Nancy!” I looked over, and it was my other great ‘Mary’ friend, but she spells her name with an ‘i.’ “Cousin Nancy,” Mari Bailey, of the famous NoMads said, as she gave me a bear hug. “When I read that you would be here, I couldn’t miss seeing you! I have broken every speed limit, from San Antonio, to get here! I thought Kinky’s book signing was from three to six! The San Antonio Dog Show had our event last on the list, and I got out of there as soon as our competition was done. It is so good to see you and Tony!”

“Hi Mari!” I said. “Well, thank you. I hope that you didn’t get a speeding ticket. I wish you and the NoMads would come out, and spend some time in Outer Space with Tony and me. I’ve really missed you and the gang.”

“I can’t wait, to go into Outer Space with you guys, but I am not a hot-weather person, and I will have to wait until the temperature, is at least, in the seventies.”

“Mari, I finally got my Buddha Pugs!” I said. “I love them, and I want to thank you so much, for letting me know about them.”

“I know you got them, Cousin Nancy,” Mari said. “Because, I read your blog everyday! And, did you know that you are starting to cost me a lot of money, too?”

“What?” I asked. “What are you talking about?”

“I have been reading your blog since day one, when Abbie flung flour all over your kitchen and ‘big room.’ Since then, I have purchased ‘Miles of Chocolate’ which I absolutely love, “Dave’s Smokin’ Jalapenos and Dave’s Smokin’ Garlic” which my whole family and I are now addicted to, and I also bought John Kemmerly’s book, ‘Velma the Vomiting Vulture,” for $35.00 and many more since. John is a great writer. Oh yes, Cousin Nancy, I now own all of N.M. Kelby’s books, too—which I really enjoyed reading. ‘Whale Season’ and ‘Murder at the Bad Girls Bar and Grill,’ are my two favorites. That girl can really write!”

Tony and I were shaking with laughter! “Mari, I cannot believe, that you have bought all of that stuff,” I said. “Good grief, that is fantastic! What a compliment.”

“I promise I did. Where’s John Kemmerly?” Mari asked. “I was the first, after you, to buy his book—off of the internet, and I brought it with me, for him to sign.”

“John and his family left about ten minutes ago,” I said. “I tell you what. Give me your copy of Velma, and I will get John to sign it, and then I will drop it off here, for you to pick up, if that is okay with Sandy and Jon.” Sandy smiled and nodded, yes.

Mari and her NoMad friend, Judy, then took off to get Kinky to sign their books.

She and I visited a little bit longer and then it was closing time and she and Judy left. As Tony and I were about to leave, Sandy said, “Tony, Nancy! Why don’t y’all come over, to our house, for a drink, before meeting John and his family at six-thirty?”

“I don’t know, Sandy,” I said. “We have to go to WalMart for Tony to return an outdoor camera. I am not sure we will have enough time.”

“Y’all have to come over, “ Jon said. “Come on, you guys?”

“Okay,” Tony said. “We will see y’all soon.” Then we left the bookstore, and headed off to WalMart.

After Tony got his refund—we drove over to Sandy and Jon’s house. As soon as we arrived at their beautiful home, we went directly outside, to sit on their beautiful, gigantic patio. John handed Tony and I beer, and then we sat down for a fun visit with them. “Nancy and Tony, this is our version,” Jon said, “of your Outer Space.”

“Sandy and Jon,” I said. “I love your version—it is absolutely beautiful!” We visited for about twenty minutes in their lovely flower covered, filled with awesome plants—veranda. Then it was time to meet John and his family for dinner, at a very fancy Kerrville restaurant...

I am sorry, this story is fast turning into a book. I will finish the rest of the story tomorrow. Tony just came in and announced that it is fixin’ to be ‘Twilight Zone’ time, and he wants me to go into Outer Space with him. He is now pouring me a glass of wine from my wine box. I can’t resist. I promise to finish my story tomorrow. Cheers!

Congratulations, Ben and Miles!

This morning, Sue, a good friend of mine, up in Austin, called to tell me that she was reading last weeks Austin Chronicle’s list of the Best in Austin, and Miles of Chocolate, won Best Chocolate in Austin, Texas 2008! Yeah, Ben and Miles!

I believe that Miles of Chocolate is the Best on this planet, and I am not kidding! I am fixing to call Ben now, to tell him congratulations! Check it out: milesofchocolate.com

P.S. Kinky just called, and will arrive at the ranch this afternoon! I can’t wait to see him!

In The Company of Angels!

This morning, I woke up at 5:30. After feeding the dogs and Lucky, the cat—I sat down at my laptop to get some work done. As the coffee brewed, I sat at the kitchen table, pulling pictures of dogs that we had adopted out, from my iPhoto album, so I could e them up to Stacie, who is working on a slideshow for tomorrow night’s Bonefit at the Ruta Maya, starring our good friend, Joe King Carrasco!

I enjoyed looking at the many pictures of our dogs, that we’ve adopted out, and they brought back memories and smiles. After I had picked out about thirty or so pictures, I resized them and then I e-mailed them up to Stacie, in Austin! And, it took less than 20 minutes for me to do!

At 7:45, I phoned Harley Belew, so I could talk to him, on-air, about our dogs, and to tell him, who was his Pet of the Week. Harley’s Pet of the Week was Lexi, a beautiful tan and white muttigree, about 3 years old and is very well trained. She is a great dog and would be a great companion for someone who likes to jog! Hopefully, she will be adopted soon. Before the interview was over, Harley let me plug tomorrow nights Bonefit in Austin!

After the interview, I started preparing breakfast, knowing that Tony would be home soon. The breakfast was tasty, and after cleaning up the kitchen— I returned a few phone calls to people wanting to bring their dogs to us, because they could no longer keep them—for various reasons.

At 9:20, the phone rang. I decided to let the machine take the call, because ‘Kokomo’ by the Beach Boys was playing on my iPod Deck, and I didn’t want to pause it. “Hello, Nancy? This is Tom. Nicki and I and her parents, Nancy and David are leaving Austin...”

“Hi Tom!” I said, to my nephew. “Are y’all coming down for the Kerrville Folk Festival?”

“Yep,” Tom replied. “Would it be okay for me to bring them out today to meet y’all and to see the rescue ranch? We were thinking of driving there first and then going over to the festival.”

“Good grief, Tom,” I said. “I would love for y’all to come see us! You’re not going to believe how cool Outer Space is!”

“Hmm,” Tom hummed. “What’s Outer Space?” And, then he sorta laughed.

“Tom, I named the screened in porch, that you and Ronnie built—Outer Space!” I explained. “And, you are going to be blown away!” (Little did he know the wind was gusting up to 25 miles per hour outside.)

“Oh, okay, Nance, we should be there in a couple of hours. Bye.”

As soon as that call ended—Maribeth arrived, and twenty minutes later—Ben arrived from Austin!

Around 11:00, Tom’s party of four arrived! Tom’s girlfriend, Nicki gave me a hug, as did Tom and then Nicki’s parents. Then I invited everyone into Outer Space. As they followed me up the porch steps, I bragged to them about Tom being a talented carpenter, and they agreed with me and were impressed with his and Ronnie’s work.

Unfortunately, we had a pretty short visit, but it was a lot of fun, and there was a lot of laughter! They needed to leave, because they were anxious to get to the festival to set up their camping gear. But fortunately, before leaving, they told us that they would be coming back tomorrow, for a tour and a longer visit! And, that made my day! I thought.

Well, around 4:35, the dogs outside started barking! Someone was driving onto the ranch! I hoped that it was Tom, Nicki, Nancy and David, but unfortunately it wasn’t. Instead, it was a FedEx delivery truck, so Tony left Outer Space, to go meet up with the driver. As Ben and I watched from Outer Space, Tony signed for the package, and then headed back our way—wearing a smile and giving us a thumbs up!

When he returned to Outer Space, he said, “Nance, it’s for you—from N.M. Kelby. You want me to open it up for you?”

“Yes, please,” I said. “I’ll bet that it is the ‘Bad Girls Bar & Grill’ BBQ sauce, that I had ordered!

“Yes,” Tony said. “And no.”

“What do you mean?” I asked.

“Yes, it is the BBQ sauce, six bottles, and two copies of her book— ‘In The Company of Angels!’” Then Tony handed me the books! “Ben, Nicole is so sweet. She wouldn’t let me pay for the BBQ sauce. So, I am going to send her a brick of y’all’s ‘Miles of Chocolate’ as soon as her book tour is over.” Ben smiled, and nodded his head. “I am nearly finished reading, ‘“Murder at the Bad Girls Bar & Grill’ and it is a fantastic read—just like ‘Whale Season!”’

“Can I read them, when y’all are through?” Ben asked.

“Of course, you can, Ben,” I said. “They are so good! I can’t wait for you to read them!”

“I’m nearly finished with ‘Whale Season,’” Tony said. “And, you’ll like it.”

When the temperature in Outer Space reached ninety-six degrees, Ben decided it was time to leave, so he went over to the Lodge, to see his dogs, Penny and Valerie, and Tony and I came inside the trailer to—escape the heat.

P.S. Thank you, Tom, Nicki, Nancy, David and Nicole—y’all just made my day! I love it!

California Votes!

Last Thursday, I received an e-mail from our friend, Kurt, out in California. He wrote to tell me that he and his family loved reading John’s book, ‘Velma the Vomiting Vulture!” And, Kurt went on to tell me that they had ordered Miles of Chocolate, that Ben and his partner, Miles, make, and he wrote that he and his family loved Miles of Chocolate, as much as they loved “Velma the Vomiting Vulture! Then he asked me to tell Kinky, hi.

Busy, Busy, Busy!

I have been more than busy out here, this week, and so have Tony, John and Kinky. I plan to blog this weekend to catch everyone up on what's been going on. And, I apologized for not blogging much this week, and my excuse, of course—is the full moon! I have great news about, "Velma the Vomiting Vulture," Miles of Chocolate, the six new dogs that we have rescued this week, Willie Nelson and much more! Manana!

P.S. Since yesterday, Kinky and I have played pool on three different occasions. And, as of this evening the results are in: The Hummingbird Man—3 and Cousin Nancy—0!

Yummy, Yummy, Yummy...

Later this morning, Ben Welch drove down from Austin to work at the rescue ranch, with Tony and John, but before going to work—he came to the trailer and surprised me!

He came inside the trailer—toting his old duffle bag?

“Hi, Ben,” I said. “What’s in the duffle bag?”

“Hi, Nance,” Ben said. “I brought you and Tony some early Christmas presents. Check it out.”

I unzipped Ben’s duffle bag and nearly fell over at what I saw! Ben’s bag was full of Pear Bread loaves, that he and his partner, Miles, had baked at Miles And Miles of Chocolate! “Oh my gosh, is all of this for me?” I asked.

“I brought them for you and Tony, and Kinky. Take as many as you like, and feel free to give them away to your friends.”

I thought I had died and gone to heaven, because their Pear Bread with crystalized Ginger, is the best Pear Bread in the whole wide world,—and I love it—just ask Tony! I pulled out seven loaves, and put one loaf in the refrigerator, and then put the other six into the freezer. “Oh, Ben, thank you and Miles so much!”

Ben smiled. “You’re welcome, Nance. If you need anymore just let me know. I’ll bring y’all some blocks of chocolate, the next time I come down to work. I need to get outside. See you at lunch.” Then Ben grabbed his half-full duffle bag, zipped it up, and left the trailer.

For lunch, we ate John’s and my secret recipe, “Surf and Turf,” and then we ate Pear Bread for dessert, with Blue Bell Vanilla ice cream! And, I am finishing off the loaf as I type!

If you want to try their chocolate or Pear Bread, please check out: milesofchocolate.com
I promise you will love it!