I had to go to the Walk-in Clinic today. Have had a bad cough for a few days and it wasn't getting any better. My Dr's nurse kept giving me the run around so I finally went somewhere else.
As I came out of the grocery store afterward I met two of my favorite people on earth - my old therapists. I had not seen them in several years and it was so good to see them but didn't want to spread anything around. I stopped short and said, "Kathleen, you don't want to come any closer and get what I have" I've been pretty sick.
She looked at me, grinned, said, "BULL SHIT" and hugged me. What a neat lady. It was so good to see them and even though our time was too short to catch up we saw each other and wished each other a Happy New Year.
I owe a lot to those two people. He could scare the shit out of you but you always knew where you stood with him. She was a little softer but you still knew where you stood. They gave me so much.
It was great to see them and a nice way to end 2011.
Friday, December 30, 2011
Friday, December 23, 2011
Christmas is for the Birds
Well, if you know me, you know that's not what I REALLY think of Christmas. It's many things and different things to different people.
This year we have a back yard FULL of birds. The last two years we have been gone so much I didn't start feeding them because I didn't think that was fair. But this year I am feeding them and our yard is FULL.
We have had about 4 sets of Cardinals, Tufted Titmice, Black Capped Chickadees, Junco, a Red Bellied Woodpecker and today we had a Downey Woodpecker too. That almost made me go to town to see if the local grocery store had any suet for them. I LOVE to watch them.
We have several feeders up and the cardinals are all over them. I tried to get some pictures and here are a couple but they did not like it when I came out to the deck.
There have been up to four or six goldfinch on this bag of thistle feed at once but not so many when I showed up with the camera.
This year we have a back yard FULL of birds. The last two years we have been gone so much I didn't start feeding them because I didn't think that was fair. But this year I am feeding them and our yard is FULL.
We have had about 4 sets of Cardinals, Tufted Titmice, Black Capped Chickadees, Junco, a Red Bellied Woodpecker and today we had a Downey Woodpecker too. That almost made me go to town to see if the local grocery store had any suet for them. I LOVE to watch them.
We have several feeders up and the cardinals are all over them. I tried to get some pictures and here are a couple but they did not like it when I came out to the deck.
There have been up to four or six goldfinch on this bag of thistle feed at once but not so many when I showed up with the camera.
Thursday, December 22, 2011
Down One Road to a Christmas Past
I've been thinking of past Christmases and one in particular stands out this morning.
I'm not sure of the year, probably about 1942 or 1943. We lived outside of Canton, Illinois.
When I was little Mary and Ruth Ann always got me a great Christmas gift. I always waited for their gifts because they both had money and no kids and they were able to get out more than mother was.
This particular year they all came about the same time. Mom had the table set for Breakfast and it was snowing and kind of a nasty day, as I remember. Everyone was hurrying in out of the cold and we were trying to take their coats. I was REALLY trying to look at all the packages they had brought and look for one with my name on it.
BUT...I couldn't see one that said "ELLEN" and they were all acting like things were fine and now I realize they set me up. Someone said things had been kind of tight that year and money was short and maybe there wasn't a package for me. I tried to be a big girl and say, "Oh, that's O.K." but my heart was about to explode and I was fighting like everything to keep from crying.
Just as the tears could hardly stay inside my eyes one more second someone said, "Well, look here". There was a really big box with the name ELLEN written on the top.
I remember just tearing into that box and there was the most beautiful set of dishes for me anyone ever got. They were real dishes and they had the wheat pattern on them. There were plates, bowls, cups and saucers and a creamer and sugar bowl, a butter dish and a couple of serving dishes. They were wonderful.
After dad died and we moved to Vermont I had a lot of room upstairs in the house for play. I had my bedroom up there and one room was set up like a little store. Mom would open boxes and cans so I could use them on the shelves like a real grocery store. I had a table set with those dishes.
When the house burned they all burned. BUT...it was a WONDERFUL Christmas and I'll always remember those dishes.
I'm not sure of the year, probably about 1942 or 1943. We lived outside of Canton, Illinois.
When I was little Mary and Ruth Ann always got me a great Christmas gift. I always waited for their gifts because they both had money and no kids and they were able to get out more than mother was.
This particular year they all came about the same time. Mom had the table set for Breakfast and it was snowing and kind of a nasty day, as I remember. Everyone was hurrying in out of the cold and we were trying to take their coats. I was REALLY trying to look at all the packages they had brought and look for one with my name on it.
BUT...I couldn't see one that said "ELLEN" and they were all acting like things were fine and now I realize they set me up. Someone said things had been kind of tight that year and money was short and maybe there wasn't a package for me. I tried to be a big girl and say, "Oh, that's O.K." but my heart was about to explode and I was fighting like everything to keep from crying.
Just as the tears could hardly stay inside my eyes one more second someone said, "Well, look here". There was a really big box with the name ELLEN written on the top.
I remember just tearing into that box and there was the most beautiful set of dishes for me anyone ever got. They were real dishes and they had the wheat pattern on them. There were plates, bowls, cups and saucers and a creamer and sugar bowl, a butter dish and a couple of serving dishes. They were wonderful.
After dad died and we moved to Vermont I had a lot of room upstairs in the house for play. I had my bedroom up there and one room was set up like a little store. Mom would open boxes and cans so I could use them on the shelves like a real grocery store. I had a table set with those dishes.
When the house burned they all burned. BUT...it was a WONDERFUL Christmas and I'll always remember those dishes.
Friday, December 16, 2011
A Big Surprise
Last week-end we went to Illinois to visit a nephew and his wife, see some friends, and go see Kim, Ron, and kids. Wanted to see all of them before Christmas.
The next time we see Jeremiah and Sierra they will probably both be taller than I am.
My big surprise has to do with a sewing table I bought last summer at a garage sale. I really like that little table but it doesn't have enough storage. While we were at Ted's nephew's house I went to Beverly's sewing room so she could see how we make the Pillow Cases for my Sewing Guild at my church.
I walked in and there was the exact table I have except on one door she had two nice big containers that fastened on the door. They would hold a lot of things, scissors, thread, attachments to the machine, bias tape, just name it and most likely it would go there.
I got all the information from her on what they were called and the part number.
This morning I called the Sauder Company (where the table is made) to see if they would even consider selling me a couple of these.
They not only have them and were happy to let me have them - FREE. I almost fell off my chair when the girl said, "Oh, these will be complimentary since you did not buy your table from us". I was flabbergasted. She got tickled at me and then I finally said, "Well, there surely is shipping charges". She said, "No, that's on us - MERRY CHRISTMAS"
SO...I'm a happy sewer and my little drawers will be in the mail next week.
And if any of you need some furniture I would highly recommend the Sauder Company furniture. :)
The next time we see Jeremiah and Sierra they will probably both be taller than I am.
My big surprise has to do with a sewing table I bought last summer at a garage sale. I really like that little table but it doesn't have enough storage. While we were at Ted's nephew's house I went to Beverly's sewing room so she could see how we make the Pillow Cases for my Sewing Guild at my church.
I walked in and there was the exact table I have except on one door she had two nice big containers that fastened on the door. They would hold a lot of things, scissors, thread, attachments to the machine, bias tape, just name it and most likely it would go there.
I got all the information from her on what they were called and the part number.
This morning I called the Sauder Company (where the table is made) to see if they would even consider selling me a couple of these.
They not only have them and were happy to let me have them - FREE. I almost fell off my chair when the girl said, "Oh, these will be complimentary since you did not buy your table from us". I was flabbergasted. She got tickled at me and then I finally said, "Well, there surely is shipping charges". She said, "No, that's on us - MERRY CHRISTMAS"
SO...I'm a happy sewer and my little drawers will be in the mail next week.
And if any of you need some furniture I would highly recommend the Sauder Company furniture. :)
Thursday, December 1, 2011
BIG WAREHOUSE SALE
Our church has a lot of Outreach programs. We have a prison ministry, we help supply items for Grace Works - a store where people can go get all kinds of things for their homes - we are in the middle of helping house homeless men one night a week from now till the end of March. We furnish their dinner, let them take a hot shower and do some laundry if they need to, feed them breakfast and pack a good lunch for them before we take them back to Nashville. But one of my favorite programs we are involved in is called Building Lives. It is a house where homeless Veterans are helped get off the streets and find work and also help with problems they have.
At this point there are 22 men housed there. This is just a drop in the bucket of homeless Veterans in Nashville. Sunday we were told there are between 450 and 500 homeless veterans in town.
One of the ways this home is financed is through a yearly Warehouse Sale. The director goes to businesses and they donate items to him, he gets this old warehouse somehow and each December for 10 days there is a sale. Things are really cheap. People wait every year to come Christmas shop.
Wrapping paper is $1 a roll, many items are $2, some are $3, and one group is 4 items for $5. These are all new items.
Today I helped with this sale. I have wanted to help with this for several years but we were never home. I got there about 8:45 and was to work from 9 to 1. Lunch was served us and at 1 p.m. we were to have replacements come.
BUT...some of them didn't show up. One couple was there when I arrived and were still there when I left at 2. I took the opportunity to do a little shopping before I left. Not so much for Christmas gifts but things for the house I saw that were things I needed and were dirt cheap.
It was a rewarding day knowing all the proceeds of this day would go to help the homeless Veterans and other people in the Nashville area that need some help. I tried to watch the news but have to admit I slept through most of it.
At this point there are 22 men housed there. This is just a drop in the bucket of homeless Veterans in Nashville. Sunday we were told there are between 450 and 500 homeless veterans in town.
One of the ways this home is financed is through a yearly Warehouse Sale. The director goes to businesses and they donate items to him, he gets this old warehouse somehow and each December for 10 days there is a sale. Things are really cheap. People wait every year to come Christmas shop.
Wrapping paper is $1 a roll, many items are $2, some are $3, and one group is 4 items for $5. These are all new items.
Today I helped with this sale. I have wanted to help with this for several years but we were never home. I got there about 8:45 and was to work from 9 to 1. Lunch was served us and at 1 p.m. we were to have replacements come.
BUT...some of them didn't show up. One couple was there when I arrived and were still there when I left at 2. I took the opportunity to do a little shopping before I left. Not so much for Christmas gifts but things for the house I saw that were things I needed and were dirt cheap.
It was a rewarding day knowing all the proceeds of this day would go to help the homeless Veterans and other people in the Nashville area that need some help. I tried to watch the news but have to admit I slept through most of it.
Sunday, November 27, 2011
Waiting
Today was the first day of Advent. I have to admit I went to church for all the wrong reasons. A friend of mine plays the organ once a month and I had not seen him since before we went to Sager Brown. His mother died just before we left and I wanted to see him and tell him how sorry I was.
Well, once there the spirit went to work. The banner committee has made some beautiful banners and one of the associate ministers explained the symbol on the first one. A new symbol of Advent will be added each week till Christmas.
The sermon was on WAITING and she asked us WHAT we. in this day and age. were waiting for. She talked about all the sadness in the world and how we have forgotten how to weep for all the pain. It really made me think about what I do to celebrate Christmas.
We like to give to organizations that need help and this year the list could put us in the poor house if we gave to everything we want to. We have SO MUCH and need so little.
It always bothers me that we only do these things at Christmas time. These people are hungry and cold and need help ALL year long. I hope this year maybe I can keep some of the giving spirit all year.
Well, once there the spirit went to work. The banner committee has made some beautiful banners and one of the associate ministers explained the symbol on the first one. A new symbol of Advent will be added each week till Christmas.
The sermon was on WAITING and she asked us WHAT we. in this day and age. were waiting for. She talked about all the sadness in the world and how we have forgotten how to weep for all the pain. It really made me think about what I do to celebrate Christmas.
We like to give to organizations that need help and this year the list could put us in the poor house if we gave to everything we want to. We have SO MUCH and need so little.
It always bothers me that we only do these things at Christmas time. These people are hungry and cold and need help ALL year long. I hope this year maybe I can keep some of the giving spirit all year.
Sunday, November 20, 2011
Trip Down Memory Lane
Benjamin is here this week-end and yesterday we decided to find the old pictures we took from our movie camera. Now that was a LONG time ago. We lived at Towanda, to be exact. We had two little girls and that was to be our family. HA
We traveled back to a time when Goldie, our cat, had two or three litters of kittens a year. Then one day she would take them for a walk and come back alone. We had the most wonderful dog ever - SNOWBALL. She would take us to find the new kittens when they were born. The cat and dog ate out of the same bowl, never the right kind of food or treats, but table scraps with milk.
One time we had Snowball sheared in the summer and the cat went on the roof of the house for two days and hissed every time the poor dog would come to the back door.
We saw the girls with kittens in old wicker buggies taking them for a walk around the yard. Then later Jill put some in the basket of the bike and around and around they went.
And...the ponies, Ajax and Skeeter. Goodness. Ted and I just had the best time. Benjamin finally said, "I'm bored" so we put the film on stop and ate some lunch. After lunch Benjamin and Grandad went bowling and I went shopping.
Last night after we had supper we turned it back on and he got to see pictures of his great-grandmother and great-grandfather. He thinks Grandad looks a little like his dad. We also saw Grandma and Grandad when they were young, had dark hair, and grandma was a thin lady. And we all noticed how much Mark looks like his own dad.
We saw Kim and Jill going to school with their faithful dog seeing them off at the gate. She would sit there until the bus came and every afternoon at 3:50 you would know it was time for the bus when she would be there waiting for them.
Then we came to a part when the two little girls had a baby sister born. She was a cute little thing and funny. She hardly ever got to cry because one or the other of the girls would be waiting for her to wake up. Jill told us recently she just LOVED Connie so. She said she used to be so happy when she would come home from school and could play with her.
The real reason we turned the movie on was so Benjamin could see his mom swim in 2" of water. That clip never gets old to me and Grandad and I had our laugh of the year.
We also saw where the three little girls had a brother born. Not many pictures of Mark - hmm - wonder why.
We traveled back to a time when Goldie, our cat, had two or three litters of kittens a year. Then one day she would take them for a walk and come back alone. We had the most wonderful dog ever - SNOWBALL. She would take us to find the new kittens when they were born. The cat and dog ate out of the same bowl, never the right kind of food or treats, but table scraps with milk.
One time we had Snowball sheared in the summer and the cat went on the roof of the house for two days and hissed every time the poor dog would come to the back door.
We saw the girls with kittens in old wicker buggies taking them for a walk around the yard. Then later Jill put some in the basket of the bike and around and around they went.
And...the ponies, Ajax and Skeeter. Goodness. Ted and I just had the best time. Benjamin finally said, "I'm bored" so we put the film on stop and ate some lunch. After lunch Benjamin and Grandad went bowling and I went shopping.
Last night after we had supper we turned it back on and he got to see pictures of his great-grandmother and great-grandfather. He thinks Grandad looks a little like his dad. We also saw Grandma and Grandad when they were young, had dark hair, and grandma was a thin lady. And we all noticed how much Mark looks like his own dad.
We saw Kim and Jill going to school with their faithful dog seeing them off at the gate. She would sit there until the bus came and every afternoon at 3:50 you would know it was time for the bus when she would be there waiting for them.
Then we came to a part when the two little girls had a baby sister born. She was a cute little thing and funny. She hardly ever got to cry because one or the other of the girls would be waiting for her to wake up. Jill told us recently she just LOVED Connie so. She said she used to be so happy when she would come home from school and could play with her.
The real reason we turned the movie on was so Benjamin could see his mom swim in 2" of water. That clip never gets old to me and Grandad and I had our laugh of the year.
We also saw where the three little girls had a brother born. Not many pictures of Mark - hmm - wonder why.
Thursday, November 17, 2011
My New Toy
Well, it's more than a toy but I sure have had fun with this little jewel. I've already made a TUBE PILLOWCASE, finished a sleep set that will eventually go to a Haiti hospital and am working on a new sweatshirt jacket for a sister-in-law.
Here is a picture
This little baby threads itself, I do not use a foot pedal, the little box you see on the right is where I tell it which one of the fancy stitches I want to use.
I'm about ready to make a little dress for a girl in Africa and can't decide which of the pretty designs I want to use. I just wish it could cook.
Here is a picture
This little baby threads itself, I do not use a foot pedal, the little box you see on the right is where I tell it which one of the fancy stitches I want to use.
I'm about ready to make a little dress for a girl in Africa and can't decide which of the pretty designs I want to use. I just wish it could cook.
Monday, November 14, 2011
HOME
We arrived home about noon on 11/11/11. That must of been good luck. We were so happy to see our little house. Everything looked wonderful when we arrived and walked in.
One thing had been on my mind though. I have a plant an Uncle gave me a few years ago and I was afraid it might be gone. I usually have someone take it while we are gone but this year I had a neighbor come in once to water it.
She watered it a week earlier than I had expected so I was wondering if it might be dead. BUT...here is what I found when we arrived.
I think some of the O'Neill stubborness is in this plant.
And we knew we missed most of the fall colors but here is what we see out our kitchen window every day.
One thing had been on my mind though. I have a plant an Uncle gave me a few years ago and I was afraid it might be gone. I usually have someone take it while we are gone but this year I had a neighbor come in once to water it.
She watered it a week earlier than I had expected so I was wondering if it might be dead. BUT...here is what I found when we arrived.
I think some of the O'Neill stubborness is in this plant.
And we knew we missed most of the fall colors but here is what we see out our kitchen window every day.
Wednesday, November 9, 2011
HOME
Tomorrow about 3 p.m. we are getting in our little truck and heading up the road toward TENNESSEE. YEA!!!! I'm so excited to be going home. I'll be so happy to see our little house and my new car.
We won't get very far tomorrow but do hope to get on the other side of New Orleans.
Went to my favorite "hole in the wall" for supper tonight. The MainStreet Cafe. He's a funny man. His name is Chuck. Born and raised around here and no stranger ever walks in his front door.
He makes a good veggie burger, a great salad and just about anything else you want.
So...an end to our time at Sager Brown has come. Many good memories are here and several good friends. I could not tell my boss good-bye today. She's the best. I got her home address and will write her a letter later. She has a daughter living at home now with 4 children, ages from 5 to 11. And her husband is getting Alzhimers. I feel for her but she never complains. I couldn't ask for a nicer person to work for.
I'm sure I'll miss coming down here in the fall but have a feeling we will be busy with something else. What? I have no idea but we aren't ready for the nursing home yet. :)
We won't get very far tomorrow but do hope to get on the other side of New Orleans.
Went to my favorite "hole in the wall" for supper tonight. The MainStreet Cafe. He's a funny man. His name is Chuck. Born and raised around here and no stranger ever walks in his front door.
He makes a good veggie burger, a great salad and just about anything else you want.
So...an end to our time at Sager Brown has come. Many good memories are here and several good friends. I could not tell my boss good-bye today. She's the best. I got her home address and will write her a letter later. She has a daughter living at home now with 4 children, ages from 5 to 11. And her husband is getting Alzhimers. I feel for her but she never complains. I couldn't ask for a nicer person to work for.
I'm sure I'll miss coming down here in the fall but have a feeling we will be busy with something else. What? I have no idea but we aren't ready for the nursing home yet. :)
Tuesday, November 8, 2011
Pictures of the Bayou
We have been coming to Sager Brown for 6 years. I have tried and tried to get a picture of a barge on the Bayou all of those years. I either didn't have my camera with me, I didn't get outside to take the picture in time or the batteries were dead in the camera.
This year I have been carrying my camera with me most of the time. Today as I was walking back to the Depot after lunch I saw an Egret riding on a mass of flowers that float on the Bayou. I'm not sure what this stuff is but it has a purple flower on it sometimes. I saw a Blue Heron on a bunch the other day too. They ride the Bayou on these and eat when a fish is available.
The flowers didn't appear to be moving so I thought I could surely get out to the edge of the Bayou and get a picture. AND I DID. Just as I snapped it I heard what sounded like an engine change gears. I looked and there was a BIG barge coming down and he slowed down and moved to his left to miss the Egret. Unbelievable. I was so glad to get that picture and so impressed with the captain that he actually moved that boat over so he would not distrub the bird.
This year I have been carrying my camera with me most of the time. Today as I was walking back to the Depot after lunch I saw an Egret riding on a mass of flowers that float on the Bayou. I'm not sure what this stuff is but it has a purple flower on it sometimes. I saw a Blue Heron on a bunch the other day too. They ride the Bayou on these and eat when a fish is available.
The flowers didn't appear to be moving so I thought I could surely get out to the edge of the Bayou and get a picture. AND I DID. Just as I snapped it I heard what sounded like an engine change gears. I looked and there was a BIG barge coming down and he slowed down and moved to his left to miss the Egret. Unbelievable. I was so glad to get that picture and so impressed with the captain that he actually moved that boat over so he would not distrub the bird.
I know the Egrete doesn't look very big but he's there.
Monday, November 7, 2011
LAST TRIP TO SAGER BROWN
It's official, we are not being invited back next year. I had a feeling we weren't going to be and Saturday Ted finally asked the guy over us.
He said "NO" they had a lot of other people wanting to come and volunteer so were going to have some of them next year, then they'd be bringing some of us back. Well, I don't believe him but let it go. In his next breath he told Ted they would be phasing out the help in the sewing room since they hired Florida. I figure one of these days someone will catch him in a story - I just hope I get to hear about it.
The thing that really hurts me is that NO ONE said a word to us. We had to go and ask. I talked to my supervisor in the Depot today and she didn't even know it. She's not happy that they are taking Ted away but he seems to have more say than most of the other people here.
I had to leave church Sunday as my emotions got the best of me when they "passed the peace" and two people told me they were really going to miss me. We plan to get out of here Thursday right after work and aren't telling anyone. I don't think I could make it through the Vesper Service anyway.
SO...I already have plans for next October. I want to come to Illinois and go on the Cemetary Walk and then I want to go to our all church retreat. I've wanted to go to that for a long time but we were never home. Now we will be.
This has been a great thing for Ted and I. WE both have loved coming here and the work they do. We have made some great friends. But this year things changed a lot, especially for me and I began to think I might not come back anyway. It still would of been nice to of had someone come talk to us and tell us what was going on instead of having to go ask.
He said "NO" they had a lot of other people wanting to come and volunteer so were going to have some of them next year, then they'd be bringing some of us back. Well, I don't believe him but let it go. In his next breath he told Ted they would be phasing out the help in the sewing room since they hired Florida. I figure one of these days someone will catch him in a story - I just hope I get to hear about it.
The thing that really hurts me is that NO ONE said a word to us. We had to go and ask. I talked to my supervisor in the Depot today and she didn't even know it. She's not happy that they are taking Ted away but he seems to have more say than most of the other people here.
I had to leave church Sunday as my emotions got the best of me when they "passed the peace" and two people told me they were really going to miss me. We plan to get out of here Thursday right after work and aren't telling anyone. I don't think I could make it through the Vesper Service anyway.
SO...I already have plans for next October. I want to come to Illinois and go on the Cemetary Walk and then I want to go to our all church retreat. I've wanted to go to that for a long time but we were never home. Now we will be.
This has been a great thing for Ted and I. WE both have loved coming here and the work they do. We have made some great friends. But this year things changed a lot, especially for me and I began to think I might not come back anyway. It still would of been nice to of had someone come talk to us and tell us what was going on instead of having to go ask.
Saturday, November 5, 2011
ALL MY CHILDREN
Well, I guess ALL MY CHILDREN have quit blogging. Kim's still running from Frankeinstein Friday, Benjamin is still on Fall Break, and Mark's little baby is still going to the bathroom. Jill, well, Jill never blogs anyway.
We are stuck here in Louisiana for one more week and I keep hoping SOMEONE will call us or email us or let us know they are alive. BUT...woe is the life of an old woman who out lives her years and wonders about her children.
I guess NO NEWS is GOOD NEWS and I shouldn't knock it. Parents do wonder though. Yes we do!!!!!!
We are stuck here in Louisiana for one more week and I keep hoping SOMEONE will call us or email us or let us know they are alive. BUT...woe is the life of an old woman who out lives her years and wonders about her children.
I guess NO NEWS is GOOD NEWS and I shouldn't knock it. Parents do wonder though. Yes we do!!!!!!
Wednesday, November 2, 2011
Week Five in the Sewing Room
We have had a busy week. Last Friday Linda and I drove to Lafayette, LA to buy fabric for the Christmas Stockings for Chez Hope. That is the Domestic Abuse Center here in Franklin.
We found the fabric quickly, drove on the Harbor Freight and bought some blades for the rotary cutters and headed back toward Baldwin.
We were to meet the guys (Ted and Ken) in New Iberia for dinner but we wanted to stop at the big Walmart store in Brusard first. We both ended up buying quite a few groceries and off we went.
After a steak dinner it was home and early to bed. I was SO tired. That seems to be my middle name these days. I cannot sleep very long at one time here in these twin beds that squeek every time you move it seems, or a train is going through town or I wake myself up snoring or Ted wakes me up snoring. O.K., I'll quit whining.
Saturday was our usual cleaning of the apartment and laundry. After that we headed into Franklin to the Pumpkin Fest and see all the "goings on". Two bands were playing, old cars were on display, all the organizations in St. Mary Parish had a booth I think selling something, and the sun was warm. My favorite place is a big store converted into a garage sale for some organization. They always have the most interesting items. Last year we bought some things to embroider and the hoops and yarn were included. They are still in the bag. We also bought a light wt. blanket with "Freedom Isn't Free" embroidered on it and that we use at home.
This year we bought a pillow case to make a dress for Africa, some yarn for a dish rag, a hard hat so Ted could play a joke on his co-worker and I tried to buy the new fancy watch that snaps on your arm. There was no price on it and when I asked a lady how much she began to laugh and said "Oh, probably .75 cents" I tried to tell her they were really popular and she really laughed then saying it probably didn't work. She was right and I got tickled at her. She was having more fun than anyone.
This week we only had two women that wanted to sew and one is going on every tour offered. She's smart as this is her first time here and you need to experience the Mickey Mouse Head Start program, the elementary school, and tomorrow they will both go to Chez Hope.
So with about 45 Christmas Stockings to make we have not had the quantity of sewers we usually have but the three of us have managed to make 43 Stockings and found out last night they only need 31. That's great as they will have a few to start next year with.
So...all in all it's been a good week. Today we only have volunteers here a half day. Then I will get the rest of the supplies I'm taking back for the house they are setting up in Nashville for Veterans to get them off the street. This is one of the wonderful things Obama has done but not many people know about it. We will take towels, soap, tooth brushes, tooth paste, combs, band-aids, and nail clippers. These are things that are the wrong size to put in the kits assembled here. I want to get these boxed up and in the truck ready to go next week.
I know, this is kind of boring but it is good for us to be here and do what little we can. With everyone working together we do help a few of the hurting in our world.
We found the fabric quickly, drove on the Harbor Freight and bought some blades for the rotary cutters and headed back toward Baldwin.
We were to meet the guys (Ted and Ken) in New Iberia for dinner but we wanted to stop at the big Walmart store in Brusard first. We both ended up buying quite a few groceries and off we went.
After a steak dinner it was home and early to bed. I was SO tired. That seems to be my middle name these days. I cannot sleep very long at one time here in these twin beds that squeek every time you move it seems, or a train is going through town or I wake myself up snoring or Ted wakes me up snoring. O.K., I'll quit whining.
Saturday was our usual cleaning of the apartment and laundry. After that we headed into Franklin to the Pumpkin Fest and see all the "goings on". Two bands were playing, old cars were on display, all the organizations in St. Mary Parish had a booth I think selling something, and the sun was warm. My favorite place is a big store converted into a garage sale for some organization. They always have the most interesting items. Last year we bought some things to embroider and the hoops and yarn were included. They are still in the bag. We also bought a light wt. blanket with "Freedom Isn't Free" embroidered on it and that we use at home.
This year we bought a pillow case to make a dress for Africa, some yarn for a dish rag, a hard hat so Ted could play a joke on his co-worker and I tried to buy the new fancy watch that snaps on your arm. There was no price on it and when I asked a lady how much she began to laugh and said "Oh, probably .75 cents" I tried to tell her they were really popular and she really laughed then saying it probably didn't work. She was right and I got tickled at her. She was having more fun than anyone.
This week we only had two women that wanted to sew and one is going on every tour offered. She's smart as this is her first time here and you need to experience the Mickey Mouse Head Start program, the elementary school, and tomorrow they will both go to Chez Hope.
So with about 45 Christmas Stockings to make we have not had the quantity of sewers we usually have but the three of us have managed to make 43 Stockings and found out last night they only need 31. That's great as they will have a few to start next year with.
So...all in all it's been a good week. Today we only have volunteers here a half day. Then I will get the rest of the supplies I'm taking back for the house they are setting up in Nashville for Veterans to get them off the street. This is one of the wonderful things Obama has done but not many people know about it. We will take towels, soap, tooth brushes, tooth paste, combs, band-aids, and nail clippers. These are things that are the wrong size to put in the kits assembled here. I want to get these boxed up and in the truck ready to go next week.
I know, this is kind of boring but it is good for us to be here and do what little we can. With everyone working together we do help a few of the hurting in our world.
Friday, October 28, 2011
VESPER SERVICE
Both my two readers know this has not been the best Mission Trip I've had. BUT...last night was just the most moving Vesper Service ever.
Our music before the service started was a minister and his wife playing their Dulcimers. It was so beautiful and calming. They just played and went from one song to another with no announcement. One of the songs they played was "I'll Fly Away". All of a sudden you could hear someone humming softly, then another voice joined in and another. It moved me to tears. It was truly a Spiritual Experience.
Two ladies sang solo's. One said she was not a Methodist and everyone laughed. She also said she only had one vocal chord but God had still given her the ability to sing and sing she did.
The other lady had the most beautiful alto voice and sang In The Calm.
The whole service was one of the best I've EVER experienced here and all of a sudden it came together that this is where I need to come. I'm still not sure I'll get to come back but these last two weeks are going to be much different than I've been working on so far.
Our music before the service started was a minister and his wife playing their Dulcimers. It was so beautiful and calming. They just played and went from one song to another with no announcement. One of the songs they played was "I'll Fly Away". All of a sudden you could hear someone humming softly, then another voice joined in and another. It moved me to tears. It was truly a Spiritual Experience.
Two ladies sang solo's. One said she was not a Methodist and everyone laughed. She also said she only had one vocal chord but God had still given her the ability to sing and sing she did.
The other lady had the most beautiful alto voice and sang In The Calm.
The whole service was one of the best I've EVER experienced here and all of a sudden it came together that this is where I need to come. I'm still not sure I'll get to come back but these last two weeks are going to be much different than I've been working on so far.
Wednesday, October 26, 2011
TEN and a HALF MORE DAYS
I never thought I'd be counting the days till we could go home but I am. Coming to Louisiana to work has been one of the most rewarding things we have ever done. I've loved what we did here, the people that come to work and the staff.
BUT...things have changed and it's no longer fun for me. I cannot speak for Ted but I'm ready to leave now. This will be one of the nicest memories in my book of life if I don't count this year.
I admit some of my disappointment comes from my age. The people bother me more than they used to. But other things have come into the picture too that have taken away from it for me.
I'll GET ER DONE and do my best job but my heart will not be in it - it WILL be a JOB.
So...10 1/2 full work days till we head north and that's none too soon for me.
BUT...things have changed and it's no longer fun for me. I cannot speak for Ted but I'm ready to leave now. This will be one of the nicest memories in my book of life if I don't count this year.
I admit some of my disappointment comes from my age. The people bother me more than they used to. But other things have come into the picture too that have taken away from it for me.
I'll GET ER DONE and do my best job but my heart will not be in it - it WILL be a JOB.
So...10 1/2 full work days till we head north and that's none too soon for me.
Sunday, October 23, 2011
Short Break in Biloxi
Friday morning Ted and I worked in the Depot till about 10:30, then headed to Biloxi to meet Connie, Jim, and Benjamin. The weather was perfect and we were so happy for an excuse to get away.
We decided to stop and pick up a couple of Halloween costumes to add to the fun of the week-end. Below is what we ended up with.
We decided to stop and pick up a couple of Halloween costumes to add to the fun of the week-end. Below is what we ended up with.
Jim picked us up at our motel and took us to get Connie and Benjamin for a walk on the beach. When Jim drove up in front of their fancy Casino, I would of given a lot to have had a video of Connie when she saw Ted and I. Benjamin was not srue he even wanted to get in the car and Connie was laughing so hard she could hardly stand up. Not sure what Jim was thinking, probably just as well we don't know.
Had a great week-end. The costumes came off and we had a good walk on the beach. Sun was warm and a gentle breeze kept us from getting too hot.
Saturday proved to be just as great and we had another nice walk on the beach before heading to the Grand Casino for a buffet. Then Ted and I took Benjamin for the evening and Benjamin and I went to find a Putt-Putt Golf place. He beat me by two strokes. Ornery kid.
We got back here about 12:30 and before long our good friends from Oklahoma arrived so the next three weeks will be fun.
Monday, October 17, 2011
BOOK
Miss Topsey Turvey lives alone on Dizzle Dazzle Street,
She wears her slippers on her hands and mittens on her feet.
O.K. Kim, that's all I can remember. Oh, I do remember the picture of her too.
She wears her slippers on her hands and mittens on her feet.
O.K. Kim, that's all I can remember. Oh, I do remember the picture of her too.
Sunday, October 16, 2011
Church in Louisiana
When we are here working I attend a Black church. I love it. Back home my minister recently asked us why we came to church? To see our friends?, to wear the new dress we got?, it's what we do?.
She reminded us we should come to church to Worship God.
Well, let me tell you the little Methodist Church I attend here knows how to WORSHIP GOD. They say their church starts at 8 a.m. but no one keeps track. Sometime around 8 a.m. the organist begins to play and sing. Man, can she sing. People come in for a good 15 to 20 minutes before we settle down to the actual worship service.
One lady is the sister to Freddie that works in the Depot. Her name is Juanita and she teaches 5th grade. I love this woman. She has the most beautiful voice. I heard her sing a couple of years ago when the UMCOR Disaster Accademy went over for a Choir performance. I told her she needs to come to Nashville but she only laughs.
Last Sunday another couple from Sager Brown and I had attended service together. They were having a meeting after church so we quietly (we thought) slipped out. Just as we started to get in their truck a big booming voice said, "DON'T EVEN THINK ABOUT IT"!!!! I thought it was God telling us to get back in there. It was Juanita saying we better not leave till she had a hug.
They don't seem to care that some of us are not Black. They hug us and tell us God Loves Us too when we Pass the Peace. Our church used to do that but we are too large and dignified now. I miss some of the things a smaller church can do.
Our service ALWAYS lasts 2 hours and I'm wondering what would happen at home if the service went over 1 hour.
If you are ever in the area and feel the need to REALLY Worship God just stop in Baldwin at Trinity United Methodist church and tell them I said "HEY"
She reminded us we should come to church to Worship God.
Well, let me tell you the little Methodist Church I attend here knows how to WORSHIP GOD. They say their church starts at 8 a.m. but no one keeps track. Sometime around 8 a.m. the organist begins to play and sing. Man, can she sing. People come in for a good 15 to 20 minutes before we settle down to the actual worship service.
One lady is the sister to Freddie that works in the Depot. Her name is Juanita and she teaches 5th grade. I love this woman. She has the most beautiful voice. I heard her sing a couple of years ago when the UMCOR Disaster Accademy went over for a Choir performance. I told her she needs to come to Nashville but she only laughs.
Last Sunday another couple from Sager Brown and I had attended service together. They were having a meeting after church so we quietly (we thought) slipped out. Just as we started to get in their truck a big booming voice said, "DON'T EVEN THINK ABOUT IT"!!!! I thought it was God telling us to get back in there. It was Juanita saying we better not leave till she had a hug.
They don't seem to care that some of us are not Black. They hug us and tell us God Loves Us too when we Pass the Peace. Our church used to do that but we are too large and dignified now. I miss some of the things a smaller church can do.
Our service ALWAYS lasts 2 hours and I'm wondering what would happen at home if the service went over 1 hour.
If you are ever in the area and feel the need to REALLY Worship God just stop in Baldwin at Trinity United Methodist church and tell them I said "HEY"
Saturday, October 15, 2011
Saturday - AH SATURDAY
For some unknown reason I've slept 10 hours two nights this week. HMMMMM Old age I guess.
We had planned to go on a Swamp Tour this morning. When I called I was informed that he doesn't go unless he has 8 wanting to go and so far had no one else interested this morning. Well, Durn.
So...I gathered up the last of the laundry, cleaned our little apartment, paid bills, and here I sit.
Next Saturday we hope to be in Biloxi and get to see Connie, Jim, and MR. B.
Then we only have 3 more weeks before we head north one more time. Think I'll go to the library and see if I can find a good book about - well WHATEVER.
We had planned to go on a Swamp Tour this morning. When I called I was informed that he doesn't go unless he has 8 wanting to go and so far had no one else interested this morning. Well, Durn.
So...I gathered up the last of the laundry, cleaned our little apartment, paid bills, and here I sit.
Next Saturday we hope to be in Biloxi and get to see Connie, Jim, and MR. B.
Then we only have 3 more weeks before we head north one more time. Think I'll go to the library and see if I can find a good book about - well WHATEVER.
Friday, October 14, 2011
Week Two in the Sewing Room
Well, this was a great week. We had four women from Texas and two men, one from Texas and the other one from Florida.
These two men were a hoot. The one tried to sew but soon gave it up for a more challenging job - pinning handles on the bags before they were sewn on. This sounds really terrible, I know, but it actually is a very important step in the process of sewing the bags and makes the job easier for the ones that ARE putting handles on.
We laughed, told jokes, made fun of the men, they made fun of us, took breaks, and just had a great time. AND...they made 375 school bags this week. I think that's almost a record for anyone that has worked in there when I was here.
I'm going to miss this group but I have a feeling a couple of them and I will be close for a long time to come. One of them could not believe I was 75. I asked her how old she thought I was and she said, "Oh, about 60". I KNOW she and I are going to be friends. :)
So...this morning my helper and I clean the machines, put new needles in and make sure we have work for the ones coming in Monday to do.
There is a large group coming next week. Over 70 volunteers and it will be a busy campus. Hope we have good workers again in the sewing room.
I know this is calm compared to a couple of weeks last year and that's JUST FINE WITH ME.
These two men were a hoot. The one tried to sew but soon gave it up for a more challenging job - pinning handles on the bags before they were sewn on. This sounds really terrible, I know, but it actually is a very important step in the process of sewing the bags and makes the job easier for the ones that ARE putting handles on.
We laughed, told jokes, made fun of the men, they made fun of us, took breaks, and just had a great time. AND...they made 375 school bags this week. I think that's almost a record for anyone that has worked in there when I was here.
I'm going to miss this group but I have a feeling a couple of them and I will be close for a long time to come. One of them could not believe I was 75. I asked her how old she thought I was and she said, "Oh, about 60". I KNOW she and I are going to be friends. :)
So...this morning my helper and I clean the machines, put new needles in and make sure we have work for the ones coming in Monday to do.
There is a large group coming next week. Over 70 volunteers and it will be a busy campus. Hope we have good workers again in the sewing room.
I know this is calm compared to a couple of weeks last year and that's JUST FINE WITH ME.
Thursday, October 13, 2011
HAPPY BIRTHDAY NUMBER TWO
Fifty years ago today we had a second beautiful baby girl. Happy birthday, Jill. I hope you have a WONDERFUL day.
Love you, mom
Love you, mom
Sunday, October 9, 2011
HAPPY BIRTHDAY
October 9, 1957 we had our first born child. A beautiful baby girl. Happy Birthday, Kim. Love you.
Friday, October 7, 2011
ONE WEEK DOWN, FIVE TO GO
This is the last day of our first week here. I'm ready for a day off. It's been a trying week but going better with each passing day.
This morning I showered, got dressed and started putting my name tag on, turn on my phone, be sure my keys were in my pocket and couldn't find my pocket. I HAD PUT MY SLACKS ON BACKWARD.
TGIF
This morning I showered, got dressed and started putting my name tag on, turn on my phone, be sure my keys were in my pocket and couldn't find my pocket. I HAD PUT MY SLACKS ON BACKWARD.
TGIF
Tuesday, October 4, 2011
A Day at Work
We are back in Louisiana for awhile. I'm back in the sewing room and Ted is hard at work in Depot after cleaning out all the dryer vents on campus yesterday. Even though he shows the crew here how to do that little job, they always have them waiting for him to do. Never mind he just turned 80 and I doubt any of them are much over 50, save one.
My two singing ladies are back this year but I discovered I have an ACE on my side. Upon arrival to the sewing room yesterday I learned I had a helper this year. Her name is Louise and she is on a Gov't grant of some kind. She can only work so many hours a week and told me right away she had been told she had a way with people. SO...I shared with her the plight of the lady that sewed on a serger like she was driving an Indy 500 car.
Louise took over and I admired her work from across the room. AND...low and behold the driver slowed down. Well, most of the time. Since Louise is only allowed to work so many hours a week she left at noon today and it only took my friend a few minutes to totally wreck the serger that had been working just fine.
I finally said I'd deal with it tomorrow and about that time another serger was in pain. I took over and got it fixed after going back over my instructions on how to clean and thread the little devil.
I'm going to let the race car driver cut out blankets for birthing kits in the morning and hopefully by the time everyone gets here Thursday morning all the machines will be in working order. Why do I feel I have to do this? Maybe it's time I moved on to something else. We'll see how things progress and how the rest of our 6 week tour goes before making any big decisions.
*Note, Louise is not her real name but has been changed to protect the innocent. :)
My two singing ladies are back this year but I discovered I have an ACE on my side. Upon arrival to the sewing room yesterday I learned I had a helper this year. Her name is Louise and she is on a Gov't grant of some kind. She can only work so many hours a week and told me right away she had been told she had a way with people. SO...I shared with her the plight of the lady that sewed on a serger like she was driving an Indy 500 car.
Louise took over and I admired her work from across the room. AND...low and behold the driver slowed down. Well, most of the time. Since Louise is only allowed to work so many hours a week she left at noon today and it only took my friend a few minutes to totally wreck the serger that had been working just fine.
I finally said I'd deal with it tomorrow and about that time another serger was in pain. I took over and got it fixed after going back over my instructions on how to clean and thread the little devil.
I'm going to let the race car driver cut out blankets for birthing kits in the morning and hopefully by the time everyone gets here Thursday morning all the machines will be in working order. Why do I feel I have to do this? Maybe it's time I moved on to something else. We'll see how things progress and how the rest of our 6 week tour goes before making any big decisions.
*Note, Louise is not her real name but has been changed to protect the innocent. :)
Monday, October 3, 2011
ANDY ROONEY
Last night Andy Rooney said "Good-bye" to us on 60 Minutes. He was one of my favorite people. He said it like he saw it. I'm going to miss that old codger.
I had heard some of the stories he shared last night but many I had not. I knew he was a correspondent in WWII but he said he really didn't want to go into the service. He didn't think we should be in that war - until he got to Germany. He never signed autographs. Said he couldn't imagine what kind of person would want his signature on a piece of paper. I particularly liked what he said about Timothy McVeigh after the Oklahoma Bombing. With great anger in his eyes he said he could kill the B _ _ _ _ _ _ D.
Most journalists today act like they are auditioning for a play. The one's we have on the T.V. stations in Nashville get so involved in the stories they are telling I wonder sometimes how they get away with it. Andy just told the story. Oh yes, sometimes he got really angry but that was what made him so special to me.
He told of some of the people he worked with. Walter Cronkite, Morley Safer and others along the way. How close he was to his friends in the war and how many close friends he lost.
He closed his program by saying if he could do anything over he'd like to be on a T.V. show like 60 minutes to share his views and get paid for it. Pretty neat to have worked for a company as long as he has and still LOVE it.
ANYWAY...I'm going to miss seeing him.
I had heard some of the stories he shared last night but many I had not. I knew he was a correspondent in WWII but he said he really didn't want to go into the service. He didn't think we should be in that war - until he got to Germany. He never signed autographs. Said he couldn't imagine what kind of person would want his signature on a piece of paper. I particularly liked what he said about Timothy McVeigh after the Oklahoma Bombing. With great anger in his eyes he said he could kill the B _ _ _ _ _ _ D.
Most journalists today act like they are auditioning for a play. The one's we have on the T.V. stations in Nashville get so involved in the stories they are telling I wonder sometimes how they get away with it. Andy just told the story. Oh yes, sometimes he got really angry but that was what made him so special to me.
He told of some of the people he worked with. Walter Cronkite, Morley Safer and others along the way. How close he was to his friends in the war and how many close friends he lost.
He closed his program by saying if he could do anything over he'd like to be on a T.V. show like 60 minutes to share his views and get paid for it. Pretty neat to have worked for a company as long as he has and still LOVE it.
ANYWAY...I'm going to miss seeing him.
Friday, September 30, 2011
Fall or Spring?
Everywhere we look, Fall is upon us. The "bloomin" rock is barren right now but in front of it stands this poor scrawny lilac bush that survived the summer drought.
We have had BEAUTIFUL fall weather. Cool nights and warm days and my tall phlox have blessed us with blooms since the beginning of summer. This week-end we noticed blooms on this lilac bush. It even smells good.
I was going to bring the flowers inside to enjoy but since we leave tomorrow for Sager Brown I decided to leave them for the hummingbirds that don't want to leave and a few neighbors that will notice.
Thursday, September 29, 2011
RED & WHITE GROCERY STORE
When we last saw daughter #1 she loaned us some books to take south. I began reading one right away as I'm a slow reader but finished it last night. It was "Population:485". I even sent a nephew in Chicago the title as it is about volunteer firefighters and EMT's, plus other good information. Well, Brian already has the book as his sister bought it for him a few years ago. He was a fireman for awhile and said it's one of his favorite books.
There is a lot of information about growing up in a small town like I did. And the author tells about the grocery store chain "Red & White" which we had in our little berg.
This was where my mother bought her groceries and I still have wonderful memories of riding my bike there as a child and having forgotten what I was sent for. I ALWAYS had to go to the owner, Aubrey, and ask if I could use the phone. He would get this half-assed grin on his face and say, "Sure, Rinker". He always called me Rinker. Even after we were married and Ted's mom would send me up to "AUBS" for something.
I don't know if my mother bought her groceries there because she liked their groceries or if he would let her pay as she could. I rather think the latter was the case, although he had really good meat. She, however never bought meat.
There was a big wooden butcher block in the back room where he cut up chickens, steaks, probably prokchops too. It's a wonder the townspeople didn't die. But...we didn't know about all the terrible diseases we could get then so we just ate it and here we are.
He and his wife never had children. And I learned years later that she was not faithful to him but she kept this a secret from some of us and that was more than some of the rounders in our little town did.
On Saturday night they were open till 10 p.m. I worked at the local restaurant when I was old enough and always worked till 12 p.m. Saturday nights. Several of the store owners would come in at 10:15 or so and get supper. It was crazy fun. They teased us girls unmercifully.
When I left Vermont and went to Branson to work the year of 1953 they were all full of jokes about me having one leg shorter than the other when I got back. They'd even get up and imitate me walking.
This book reminds us that where we grow up shapes our lives. The more I think of it, the more truth there is to that statement. That whole town helped raise me. I rode my horse all over town without a saddle. I never was afraid of anyone, no murders ever occured, I never heard the word rape till I was gone from there, and we played hide and seek in the whole town.
There is something else in this book that really hit home with me. He says we reach a time in our lives where we have more history than time left. AMEN
There is a lot of information about growing up in a small town like I did. And the author tells about the grocery store chain "Red & White" which we had in our little berg.
This was where my mother bought her groceries and I still have wonderful memories of riding my bike there as a child and having forgotten what I was sent for. I ALWAYS had to go to the owner, Aubrey, and ask if I could use the phone. He would get this half-assed grin on his face and say, "Sure, Rinker". He always called me Rinker. Even after we were married and Ted's mom would send me up to "AUBS" for something.
I don't know if my mother bought her groceries there because she liked their groceries or if he would let her pay as she could. I rather think the latter was the case, although he had really good meat. She, however never bought meat.
There was a big wooden butcher block in the back room where he cut up chickens, steaks, probably prokchops too. It's a wonder the townspeople didn't die. But...we didn't know about all the terrible diseases we could get then so we just ate it and here we are.
He and his wife never had children. And I learned years later that she was not faithful to him but she kept this a secret from some of us and that was more than some of the rounders in our little town did.
On Saturday night they were open till 10 p.m. I worked at the local restaurant when I was old enough and always worked till 12 p.m. Saturday nights. Several of the store owners would come in at 10:15 or so and get supper. It was crazy fun. They teased us girls unmercifully.
When I left Vermont and went to Branson to work the year of 1953 they were all full of jokes about me having one leg shorter than the other when I got back. They'd even get up and imitate me walking.
This book reminds us that where we grow up shapes our lives. The more I think of it, the more truth there is to that statement. That whole town helped raise me. I rode my horse all over town without a saddle. I never was afraid of anyone, no murders ever occured, I never heard the word rape till I was gone from there, and we played hide and seek in the whole town.
There is something else in this book that really hit home with me. He says we reach a time in our lives where we have more history than time left. AMEN
Wednesday, September 28, 2011
Missing Evangelist
Sorry if I offend anyone with this blog, it just seemed so funny at the time. It really is very serious and I don't know why these things hit me as humerous but they do.
We both went in to watch the noon news yesterday. This does not happen often. They said "LATER" they would tell of the Missing Evangelist. That always catches my ear.
BUT...they never did tell what happened and we were both wondering. Ted said, "Maybe he's gone on and we are LEFT BEHIND". Well, that set me off giggling. Sorry, the devil made me do it.
I couldn't wait till the news came on at 4 to see what the heck did happen. And...the sad thing is he really IS a traveling Evangelist. The family lives in a camper and have two small children they drag around the country preaching. Apparently there was to be a Revival (another word that sets me off) in Lewisburg. This man was to preach all week.
He left the camper Monday morning with no billfold, keys, and apparently his cell phone will not work. No one has seen him since.
So here is his poor wife with two small children, living in a camper, in a strange community and her husband has disappeared. I guess if I were the good person I think I am most of the time I'd go ask her if I could help her, take her a meal and take the children for an hour or two to give her a break and let her cry.
This morning I was BLOG skipping again and every one I pulled up except one was from ministers, or someone who is truely good at heart. Maybe God is trying to tell me something.
We both went in to watch the noon news yesterday. This does not happen often. They said "LATER" they would tell of the Missing Evangelist. That always catches my ear.
BUT...they never did tell what happened and we were both wondering. Ted said, "Maybe he's gone on and we are LEFT BEHIND". Well, that set me off giggling. Sorry, the devil made me do it.
I couldn't wait till the news came on at 4 to see what the heck did happen. And...the sad thing is he really IS a traveling Evangelist. The family lives in a camper and have two small children they drag around the country preaching. Apparently there was to be a Revival (another word that sets me off) in Lewisburg. This man was to preach all week.
He left the camper Monday morning with no billfold, keys, and apparently his cell phone will not work. No one has seen him since.
So here is his poor wife with two small children, living in a camper, in a strange community and her husband has disappeared. I guess if I were the good person I think I am most of the time I'd go ask her if I could help her, take her a meal and take the children for an hour or two to give her a break and let her cry.
This morning I was BLOG skipping again and every one I pulled up except one was from ministers, or someone who is truely good at heart. Maybe God is trying to tell me something.
Tuesday, September 27, 2011
Baseball
This morning after reading Kim's blog I clicked on "Next Blog" just for the heck of it. Usually at least one will come up that interests me. But today - NONE.
I was surprised at how many on baseball come up. These guys are serious. I know someone else that knows her baseball stats and could hold up her end of the conversation with anyone of these writers but alas her mother was not interested. If the Cubs don't win, don't tell me.
One blog did come up though that was fun to read. This lady had posted an excerpt from the Nashville paper about the Bull Sperm being spilled on the Interstate. That, of course, caught my eye. She was actually writing about bad grammer and that caught my attention because I know mine is not what it should be.
Before I finished reading this blog I saw where she was very interested in good looking ball players so I guess I lost that one too.
I was surprised at how many on baseball come up. These guys are serious. I know someone else that knows her baseball stats and could hold up her end of the conversation with anyone of these writers but alas her mother was not interested. If the Cubs don't win, don't tell me.
One blog did come up though that was fun to read. This lady had posted an excerpt from the Nashville paper about the Bull Sperm being spilled on the Interstate. That, of course, caught my eye. She was actually writing about bad grammer and that caught my attention because I know mine is not what it should be.
Before I finished reading this blog I saw where she was very interested in good looking ball players so I guess I lost that one too.
Wednesday, September 21, 2011
Ruts in The Road
This road we travel called life sometimes gets ruts - you know where the tires dig in the mud and it just gets deeper and deeper?
Well, we have had two conversations lately that just about did me in. The first started yesterday. I had more or less made out a menu for Sunday dinner and one thing I am going to fix is an Apricot salad. I had written down all the ingredients I needed and bought them. Yesterday after I got home from the store I couldn't find the recipe. It's a new recipe and I was afraid I couldn't make it without seeing how to do it.
I looked all over the house. Ted asked me if it was in a book or what and I was pretty sure I had copied it off the computer. I went through all the folders where I keep those recipe's but could not find it.
While he was in the shower last night I remembered where I had gotten it and it was a recipe book I had. This morning we were sitting in the front room and I said, "I found the recipe". He looked at me with that blank stare and said, "WHAT RECIPE?" I nearly fell out of my chair.
ANd following is a conversation we just had over new AARP Cards.
I sent the check in a few days ago to renew our membership. We had received two cards earlier with a place for new stickers saying when they expired. I figured they'd just send a letter with the stickers in. BUT...no, today here came a great big folder of useless information with one new card and the expiration date on it.
Here is how the conversation went.
Ellen - Don't kow why they didn't send the stickers with the expiration dates on them.
Ted - What expiration dates?
Ellen- AARP
Ted - I have an AARP card.
Ellen - Yes, I know, but it has expired and they were to send us two new stickers for the cards we got.
Ted - What cards?
Ellen - The new AARP cards with the new expiration dates on them.
Ted - I don't need one - I have a card
Well you see how it went on and on till he finally said he didn't understand and I said, "I KNOW and I'm not going over it all again".
Well, we have had two conversations lately that just about did me in. The first started yesterday. I had more or less made out a menu for Sunday dinner and one thing I am going to fix is an Apricot salad. I had written down all the ingredients I needed and bought them. Yesterday after I got home from the store I couldn't find the recipe. It's a new recipe and I was afraid I couldn't make it without seeing how to do it.
I looked all over the house. Ted asked me if it was in a book or what and I was pretty sure I had copied it off the computer. I went through all the folders where I keep those recipe's but could not find it.
While he was in the shower last night I remembered where I had gotten it and it was a recipe book I had. This morning we were sitting in the front room and I said, "I found the recipe". He looked at me with that blank stare and said, "WHAT RECIPE?" I nearly fell out of my chair.
ANd following is a conversation we just had over new AARP Cards.
I sent the check in a few days ago to renew our membership. We had received two cards earlier with a place for new stickers saying when they expired. I figured they'd just send a letter with the stickers in. BUT...no, today here came a great big folder of useless information with one new card and the expiration date on it.
Here is how the conversation went.
Ellen - Don't kow why they didn't send the stickers with the expiration dates on them.
Ted - What expiration dates?
Ellen- AARP
Ted - I have an AARP card.
Ellen - Yes, I know, but it has expired and they were to send us two new stickers for the cards we got.
Ted - What cards?
Ellen - The new AARP cards with the new expiration dates on them.
Ted - I don't need one - I have a card
Well you see how it went on and on till he finally said he didn't understand and I said, "I KNOW and I'm not going over it all again".
Monday, September 19, 2011
HOW DID YOU DO THAT?
This is weird. I am still angry but not much I can do about this situation.
Yesterday I needed a Sympathy card. I don't like them to begin with but needed one just the same. I went into a store in Brentwood - you remember the town where they won't let the homeless sell their newspaper.
Well, the darned card was $4 and that was way too expensive but I was in a hurry and so went to buy it.
I had a $20 bill in my purse and some $1 dollar bills. That was it.
I gave her the $20 and she gave me back $6 and change. I told her I'd really like my other $10 since I had given her a $20. She said she couldn't open the drawer. I said I didn't care how she got it but I wanted my $10 back.
She called the floor manager and he said "We'll have to count the drawer". Fine with me, I'll wait.
He and another man came back saying the drawer was fine. I informed him someone else had made a mistake then before I got there because I KNOW what I had in my purse. One of them said, "I'm the store manager and this drawer balances" I wish I said, "I don't give a dam if you are the Pope, I know what I gave her".
I have a friend in Kansas City that is a personal shopper and I'm having him see if someone in this area would check this store out. I wish I'd just called the police. I know that girl slipped it in her pocket somehow.
Yesterday I needed a Sympathy card. I don't like them to begin with but needed one just the same. I went into a store in Brentwood - you remember the town where they won't let the homeless sell their newspaper.
Well, the darned card was $4 and that was way too expensive but I was in a hurry and so went to buy it.
I had a $20 bill in my purse and some $1 dollar bills. That was it.
I gave her the $20 and she gave me back $6 and change. I told her I'd really like my other $10 since I had given her a $20. She said she couldn't open the drawer. I said I didn't care how she got it but I wanted my $10 back.
She called the floor manager and he said "We'll have to count the drawer". Fine with me, I'll wait.
He and another man came back saying the drawer was fine. I informed him someone else had made a mistake then before I got there because I KNOW what I had in my purse. One of them said, "I'm the store manager and this drawer balances" I wish I said, "I don't give a dam if you are the Pope, I know what I gave her".
I have a friend in Kansas City that is a personal shopper and I'm having him see if someone in this area would check this store out. I wish I'd just called the police. I know that girl slipped it in her pocket somehow.
Saturday, September 17, 2011
FALL IS UPON US
It's been a beautiful fall day in Tennessee. Crisp air this morning. Needed a jacket when I left about 9 a.m My first stop was a craft fair at a church in Spring Hill. It's quite an event. The grounds were covered with booths selling everything. Food, fried pies, candy, then on to jewlery, knit items, wood items. One I just could not pass up was a beautiful wooden handled seam ripper.
They had some ladies singing and they were quite good. It was a perfect day. I had to park quite a way from the actual fair so they had a golf cart driver that took us from our car to the area with the booths. When I got in the guy said he was mostly sober so if I was ready he was too. Funny man.
From there I went to Franklin to the Mall. I hardly ever shop in a Mall but had something I wanted to get for a girl's birthday and knew it was in the Mall so made the effort. Looked for a couple of other gifts I needed but could not find them.
After grabbing a bite to eat I headed to Jill's. We were going to do some packing today. Well, we ended up just visiting, making a couple of decisions on how to approach the packing and then we headed to take a peek at their new house.
I won't say much but gotta tell you - IT IS BEAUTIFUL. I'm so excited for them.
Got home and just had dinner. It's been a beautiful day and I reflect on how things can turn around if we just give them time. We are always in such a hurry and if we just slow down sometimes it's amazing how great things can be.
They had some ladies singing and they were quite good. It was a perfect day. I had to park quite a way from the actual fair so they had a golf cart driver that took us from our car to the area with the booths. When I got in the guy said he was mostly sober so if I was ready he was too. Funny man.
From there I went to Franklin to the Mall. I hardly ever shop in a Mall but had something I wanted to get for a girl's birthday and knew it was in the Mall so made the effort. Looked for a couple of other gifts I needed but could not find them.
After grabbing a bite to eat I headed to Jill's. We were going to do some packing today. Well, we ended up just visiting, making a couple of decisions on how to approach the packing and then we headed to take a peek at their new house.
I won't say much but gotta tell you - IT IS BEAUTIFUL. I'm so excited for them.
Got home and just had dinner. It's been a beautiful day and I reflect on how things can turn around if we just give them time. We are always in such a hurry and if we just slow down sometimes it's amazing how great things can be.
Wednesday, September 14, 2011
POLITICIANS
I don't know about the rest of you, but I'm already sick of the "carrying on" of our so called politicians.
They act like a bunch of little kids rehearsing for a play in dress up clothes - parading around, pointing their finger at the guy or gal next to them and acting like they have all the answers to our problems.
It is estimated that over 8 billion dollars will be spent on the next election. I can't even begin to imagine 8 billion dollars.
With 462 million Americans living in the poverty level, our schools running out of money, people loosing jobs by the thousands, it seems to me that money could well be spent in a better way.
How many new schools could be built with 2 billion dollars? How many teachers could be hired for 2 billion dollars? How many people without health care could be subsidized?
I would think we could build some really good transportation systems and alleviate a lot of pollution driving millions of cars to and from work (and other places) every day.
I suggest we limit each candidate to 30 minutes to tell us what they would do if elected, no yelling at the person next to them or across the stage. Just tell us what you will be doing if elected.
Then use the rest of that money to help our citizens get back on their feet and our country working again.
I know, none of this will happen, but it sounds good anyway.
They act like a bunch of little kids rehearsing for a play in dress up clothes - parading around, pointing their finger at the guy or gal next to them and acting like they have all the answers to our problems.
It is estimated that over 8 billion dollars will be spent on the next election. I can't even begin to imagine 8 billion dollars.
With 462 million Americans living in the poverty level, our schools running out of money, people loosing jobs by the thousands, it seems to me that money could well be spent in a better way.
How many new schools could be built with 2 billion dollars? How many teachers could be hired for 2 billion dollars? How many people without health care could be subsidized?
I would think we could build some really good transportation systems and alleviate a lot of pollution driving millions of cars to and from work (and other places) every day.
I suggest we limit each candidate to 30 minutes to tell us what they would do if elected, no yelling at the person next to them or across the stage. Just tell us what you will be doing if elected.
Then use the rest of that money to help our citizens get back on their feet and our country working again.
I know, none of this will happen, but it sounds good anyway.
Tuesday, September 13, 2011
Illinois Visit
We really started the week-end Thursday night at dinner in Macomb but it carried over into Friday morning with breakfast at Donna's house. She just has open house when everyone is around. She usually feeds us but this year we made sure she didn't try that. Her plate if full enough with Jack in the nursing home now. Pictured here is David (Donna's twin), his wife Norma, and just a bit of Donna. She just would NOT cooperate. 
Here are Martin and Linda and Donna's back. I told you she wouldn't cooperate.We had a great week-end. Saw many good friends and realized how lucky we are to have grown up in a small town. The reunion was fun, the food was good, and the weather couldn't of been better.
Saturday we got to spend a bit of time with Kim and she and I went to see "THE HELP". It was my second viewing but I'll go again if anyone wants to go. Then a good dinner with her and Ted and Sunday even getting to say "HI" to Jeremiah and Sierra.
Good to be home but more good memories added to my memory book.
Wednesday, September 7, 2011
Fifty-Seven Years Ago
Tomorrow we head to Illinois where we will attend my high school class reunion. Fifty-seven years ago we were all YOUNG and healthy and full of piss and vinegar. We had the world by a string. We were ON OUR WAY.
Friday the ones of us that are able and want to meet up with old friends will gather for lunch at the church where Ted and I were married. It's changed a lot, as most churches do, but still looks much the same.
They have added a big room on the back and this room sits exactly where Ted's parents house was for, goodness, I don't know how old that house was but it took a HEAP OF LIVIN. Many good meals and fun times were held at that house. It was not a big house, in fact it was rather small but his mom and dad always had room for you and a good meal on the table.
We have 18 coming from my class. Our class had 44 graduating members but some have not lived this long, some are not well enough to come, some live right there just plain don't want to come and some live a really long way from Vermont, Illinois.
Next week I'll have an update and hopefully some pictures of this goofey group of "KIDS" that grew up in a small town in Illinois.
Friday the ones of us that are able and want to meet up with old friends will gather for lunch at the church where Ted and I were married. It's changed a lot, as most churches do, but still looks much the same.
They have added a big room on the back and this room sits exactly where Ted's parents house was for, goodness, I don't know how old that house was but it took a HEAP OF LIVIN. Many good meals and fun times were held at that house. It was not a big house, in fact it was rather small but his mom and dad always had room for you and a good meal on the table.
We have 18 coming from my class. Our class had 44 graduating members but some have not lived this long, some are not well enough to come, some live right there just plain don't want to come and some live a really long way from Vermont, Illinois.
Next week I'll have an update and hopefully some pictures of this goofey group of "KIDS" that grew up in a small town in Illinois.
Saturday, September 3, 2011
Something New at Our House
Yes, I know, you all know we have a new car. This isn't a car. It's something I had never seen before.
We have a tree frog that apparently has been coming to our hummingbird feeder at night. The feeder hangs outside the kitchen window and last night I just happened to see him. He had a friend ON the window and I tried taking pictures but of course could not get them.
Tonight he's back. I'm beginning to wonder how many more we will have. We have had purple finch come and eat. One time we had a Baltimore Oriole that was really beautiful. He stayed a couple of days and hardly left the feeder. We read later that they sometimes do this as they migrate.
I really would like a picture of our new friend. Will have to see if i can sneak up on him one of these evenings. HA HA HA
We have a tree frog that apparently has been coming to our hummingbird feeder at night. The feeder hangs outside the kitchen window and last night I just happened to see him. He had a friend ON the window and I tried taking pictures but of course could not get them.
Tonight he's back. I'm beginning to wonder how many more we will have. We have had purple finch come and eat. One time we had a Baltimore Oriole that was really beautiful. He stayed a couple of days and hardly left the feeder. We read later that they sometimes do this as they migrate.
I really would like a picture of our new friend. Will have to see if i can sneak up on him one of these evenings. HA HA HA
Thursday, September 1, 2011
Blogging, Commenting, and Being Frustrated
Yesterday I blogged about our new car. When I said to PUBLISH they went to the new blog site I had set up a month ago. Weird.
This morning I thought - hey, maybe I can comment now. But just tried to comment on Connie and still no luck. For someone like me that usually has something to say (not that it's important) this is VERY FRUSTRATING.
Maybe I'm being taught a lesson.
This morning I thought - hey, maybe I can comment now. But just tried to comment on Connie and still no luck. For someone like me that usually has something to say (not that it's important) this is VERY FRUSTRATING.
Maybe I'm being taught a lesson.
Wednesday, August 31, 2011
Out With The Old - In With The New
Today we traded our trusty Oldsmobile Alero in on a brand new
Cruze.
Oh, I love the new car and all it's bells and whistles but a little part of me feels kind of guilty getting rid of that Oldsmobile. They aren't making the Oldsmobiles any more and they were good cars. We had several and none of them gave us any big problems.
This car tells us how fast we are going, how many miles per gallon we are getting, the temp outside, our direction, I can use my phone with never pulling it out of my purse, and I can call for help if we have a problem or see someone else that needs help along the road.
I am hoping it is a good car too. The Cruze has a good review and since we don't drive a car really fast it should do well for us.
Someone is getting a good car if they buy the Alero. Everyone is afraid of it because of the miles it has on it but maybe someone out there will take a chance and I hope they love it like we have if they do.
Thursday, August 4, 2011
BRAND NEW ME
Yesterday I went to blog but had been kicked off. Tried a couple of times to reactivate it but never could. SO...here I am with a brand new title and fresh new blogs.
We've had a busy month. The party with all kinds of family here from all over the country. Jordan just left last Saturday night and Tuesday we had Benjamin for the day. His school starts Friday so I expect it will be awhile before we get to see him again.
Yesterday we had our picture taken at church. Poor man, trying to make a bunch of OLD people smile good enough for us to buy lots of pictures. First they tried to sell us a LOT of pictures. She's pretty slick in finding out how many children and grandchildren you have. Then she's SURE they will all want one. RIGHT!!! And he tried to get me to pose with my hand under my chin. Good heavens. I told him that was not my character. He very gently told me "it had a slimming affect". Nothing like having a photographer tell you you are fat.
So, the pictures weren't too bad and we probably bought more than we need. You will all know soon enough. I can't imagine any pictures being better than what Tammy took at the reunion.
So...friends and family, here I am back. Such excitement I'm sure you could do without.
We've had a busy month. The party with all kinds of family here from all over the country. Jordan just left last Saturday night and Tuesday we had Benjamin for the day. His school starts Friday so I expect it will be awhile before we get to see him again.
Yesterday we had our picture taken at church. Poor man, trying to make a bunch of OLD people smile good enough for us to buy lots of pictures. First they tried to sell us a LOT of pictures. She's pretty slick in finding out how many children and grandchildren you have. Then she's SURE they will all want one. RIGHT!!! And he tried to get me to pose with my hand under my chin. Good heavens. I told him that was not my character. He very gently told me "it had a slimming affect". Nothing like having a photographer tell you you are fat.
So, the pictures weren't too bad and we probably bought more than we need. You will all know soon enough. I can't imagine any pictures being better than what Tammy took at the reunion.
So...friends and family, here I am back. Such excitement I'm sure you could do without.
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