2005

2005 started in one of the most difficult times we had gone through, in losing all four of our dogs in the space of about three months.    It was incredible.    First Willie (17) became totally 'lost' and 'confused' and as a result very afraid;  Samantha suddenly couldn't walk and was obviously miserable.    Emma became very ill, and finally Pedro died of a broken heart in losing all his friends.    He simply gave up and wouldn't move, eat or drink.

I hope you are able to read this poem.    It was sent to us by the vet who helped us pass them on to their next life.    Either Dick or I held them while they gently went to sleep.

Mair came again to visit us and she and I visited some of the local area, including the Spiro Mounds, where the ancient indians had lived.

Other than that, our whole year was devoted to building a spec house on the other part of our property.
We had the concrete poured, but Dick did ALL the carpenter work with the exception of the roof, and did all the electric and plumbing throughout.     I did the insulation, inside painting and some wallpapering.    We did have the sheetrock put up, but Dick did all the finishing.     He also laid the tile in the entry, kitchen and utility and bathrooms.     We had the carpet laid.     And hired the outside painting, the roof and brick outside.     The most amazing thing though is that Dick built this house WITHOUT any plans.     He simple did the whole thing from the plan he had in his head.

This was the front of the house.

The side of the house showing the deck coming out from the french doors in the dining area.

And the rear view of the house and deck.     It sold very quickly.    Actually it sold the morning after we gave the realtor the listing, but unfortunately they ended up not qualifiying for the loan, but nevertheless it was still a fast sale.