livinglifeafter65

Pets.

2009-11-05T16:44:00.001-06:00

I've attempted to post several times this week, only to lay it aside and move on to something else. Do you have those days, when what you start to write just isn't what you want to say? Maybe it is just me but I'd like to keep those who read coming back and strive to have something worth reading waiting for them.

From several posts prior to this, you know we have a pet named Cricket. He got sick last Friday and we've been in a tizzy trying to take care of him, and know what to do. Saturday last week I took him to the Vet who lifted our spirits by saying "he has bronchitis". So with antibiotics given twice a day he should be good to play again.

He really did get better for a couple days, when he tried jumping on the bed and missed. The bed is too tall for him to jump from the floor, so he jumps first into a small rocker close by, then makes the final jump to the bed. But somehow he missed and fell pretty hard on the carpeted floor.

Yesterday he started screaming! I know - dogs tend to bark and whimper - however you just had to be here to understand what I'm telling you. He screamed - blood curdling screams. We weren't touching him, he was just on the floor walking when he stopped and just stood there and screamed. My husband picked him up from the floor, but momentarily he started the pitiful cry again.

What to do? Naturally I count my money, not knowing what a visit to the vet entails. I guess in his case I visualize the worst - thinking they'll have to X-ray.

I'm so glad we took him, Dr. Ward was so gentle and found he had hurt his back when he fell. Poor thing. He got a steriod shot and some prednisone for seven days, and reminds us to keep him quiet when he does feel like playing.

I'm telling you it is just like having a child. He came to us at a time in our lives when we needed him more than we realized. We've become so attached it is difficult to leave him for long periods at a time. I'm sure he is fine, but we aren't!!! Aren't we a sight? Only someone who has a pet could understand what I'm saying. The rest of you will just have to laugh at me and move on. Just be sure to come again when I have something else to talk about.

Until then, Cricket and I are going to rest.

Grammyof13

The Passing.

2009-10-31T14:27:00.001-05:00

I've never thought too much about the transition between life and death or the passage we all will travel one day. My faith gives me hope that it is a matter of closing the eyes here, only to have our spiritual eyes open for eternity. How else could we see the beauty that awaits us.

One of my dearest friends, Maxine Goodnight, made her passing Thursday night around 8pm. A woman who has dealt with much tragedy in her life, is finally free of the grief, pain and sorrow she had endured.

Her husband died as a result of a fight when she was very young with three little children. One was only a few months old when he died. His unexpected death dealt such a blow that her new baby who was being breast fed, cried for days before they realized Maxine's milk had dried up and the baby was hungry.

Maxine took care of her Mother and Father in their last years, even with her children still young enough that she needed their help instead. She would gladly tell you - she could not have made it without her parents while she worked a full time job at "Timex" and kept life as normal as was possible for them.

The daughter that was a baby when Maxine's husband died, died when she was in her 40's from an operation gone bad.

Her only son Fred, died of cancer.

Linda, the remaining daughter had a few tragedies of her own. However she did not have to go through those tragedies alone as Maxine was there for her when her youngest son was killed in an automobile accident.

Then Linda's daughter had a stroke in her early 40's and died as a result.
These were Maxine's grandchildren, so naturally she felt the blow of Linda's loss.

Maxine had a grateful spirit. She was not a complainer. She was not old, as one counts old. In years she had lived quiet long, but in spirit she had not grown old. I want to be like that with a youthful spirit now and even into my remaining years.

We enjoyed an occasional meal with her on Sunday afternoon. Occasionally we took a meal to her or cooked when I got there. My cooking was never to be compared with what she put on the table as far as taste, but she let me get in her kitchen and take over. It was great fellowship.

I don't think I am ready for her departure. I'd like to know she felt good and could stay around awhile longer - but that wasn't to be. In reflection, she is the passing of an era. Having lived through tumultous times in the 30's 40's and 50's. Men and women of that era were tough. They knew how to take the little they received and make it stretch to meet their need. Not their wants necessarily, but their needs for sure.

She would not talk about her past with pain or unforgiveness. Instead she told her story like a soldier talks about his place on the battle field. No regrets, just facts. You may gasp in wonder as to how she made it, but her gentle reply would be, " without Moma and Daddy and the Lord I wouldn't have made it."

This is one of those times when the dash between the year of birth and death, really could tell a story. One of survival. One of sincerity and Worship to the God that brought her through.

So Long Maxine, until later. Keep the light on for us who will follow. We will miss you but would never wish for you to come back and fill your place in our hearts.

Grammyof13

36,865 Days and Counting.

2009-10-25T22:53:00.000-05:00

Well here I am on the eve of my Dad's 101st birthday and all I have is pictures. I appreciate the pictures believe me, however I have had my heart and mind at the festivities today that went on without me. I knew they could pull it off - but I didn't want them to without me.

Dad and his best friend Pete who is in his 80's.

They met at the nursing home, didn't know each other before.

This is a good action shot for sure. He is all puckered up ready to blow.

Just couldn't put 101 candles on the cake, it may have put him into a massive coronary trying to blow them all out.

My sister always sees that he looks sharp. Doesn't resemble the farmer with the brown hat soiled from dirt and sweat, who wore overalls and dirty shoes and all the signs of being in the field, or cow barn!

Happy Birthday Daddy. Hope you have as many more as you would like to have. From the way I see it, we may know when it is time to hang up the hat and wait for the coach. But until that happens, keep the hat on and continue planning for the years ahead. Love you

Doris

aka/Grammyof13

The years roll on.

2009-10-21T22:26:00.001-05:00

Forty-nine years ago today, Verlon and I got married. Tonight we celebrated at Rio's Gaucho - a place we knew nothing about until we drove by it and decided to go in. It has just recently opened from what I gathered, so maybe we were among its first customers. Everyone is getting in on the food business now days. They all try to have a specialty. Theirs was lots of seafood, which I am allergic to. However, I did enjoy the salad bar and Linguini Alfredo. Messy but good!

I had a Doctor's appointment with my Thyroid specialists late this afternoon, and with the ultra sound, lab work and her exams I was beginning to wonder if we were even going to get to eat today before church time anyway.

We launched into a conversation about the longevity of any marriage these days, after the waitress seemed to be taken aback when we told her the years. I'd like to have known what she thought we would say. I feel sure there are more couples who can report a lasting marriage than we realize. It may become rarer. Now we are heading toward our fiftieth next year. By the way, you are invited to our celebration. Can't tell you where, but thought I'd let you know in plenty of time to get here!!!

Our marriage has had its moments, as well as its hills and valleys. Raising a family in the 60's and 70's were good years and with God's help, we produced four wonderful kids who have made great Moms and Dads, and productive citizens. They married well and their spouse's have endeared themselves to us - so that we still have great relationships with our children.

Another thing, Daddy has lived to see five generations. Monday the 26th he will be 101. We are not celebrating in a big way this time. My five sisters and I are taking "thanksgiving" dinner to him at the nursing home. They have given us a room for our private dinner with him, and then we will take cake into the dining room for all the residence who might want to help us celebrate. Anytime the six of us get together, we have to sing. Daddy silently demands it. Maybe silently is not the best choice of words. He usually says, “Doris there is a piano why don’t you play for us” or something to that effect. I just imagine he will sing as well – his favorite one at that.

“When the sun comes up tomorrow,
Lord, I’ll be praising you,
I’ll always give you glory in everything I do,
If the storms fierce winds are blowing.
Or if the skies are blue,
When the sun comes up tomorrow,
Lord I’ll be praising you.”

Grammyof13

Flea Markets?

2009-10-18T23:10:00.004-05:00

It was good to have someone go with me to tour our many flea markets Saturday. Some of them call themselves Antique stores, but believe me they can't disguise the fact they are flea markets. The 10 miles that separates Conway and Greenbrier has more flea markets than most any other ten mile comparison. Add a few more miles beyond Greenbrier, and there are even more.
Of course it is a great location for them, as Hwy 65 is the, "Route 66" for Branson, MO. And most everyone, from southern states anyway, takes the US hwy 65 route.

I was surprised that my daughter's two little boys wanted to go. Of course I had some fun when they asked "Whats a flea market"?

Their mother explained to them it was a place that sold old stuff before I could finish my line of "It is a place that sells fleas"! She is always spoiling my fun!!
I don't always purchase anything. Don't even go with buying sometime on my mind, but it is always good to find a bargain. We enjoyed watching two videos we purchased (VCR ones), which I'd rather see. Parker and Preston each had $5 they could spend, so we found their Mom a little pair of pumpkin earrings, and a ceremic nativity set.
While the lady was wrapping them carefully before putting them in the bag, Preston was standing (not on tiptoes this time) holding on to the counter, watching each move she made when he had the urge to tell the cashier what the purchase was for.
"My brother is having a birthday party, and Mama's birthday is the same day. So I got this for my Mama!" He understood how Mama always gives the party for little brother who was born on her birthday and somehow is forgotten in the festivities. Not really, her husband never forgets, but I'm sure their little fellows could forget.

Anyway, I did fine a free standing paper towel holder that had a rooster on the holder. I won't throw my "well worn" one away, for it was a gift from another daughter. It was a tomato holder (free standing of course). On the tomato it had a peg with a set of four numbers. On the tomato it read, "Grammy is busy, take a number!" I thought I'd retire it for a rest anyway. May bring it out again, as Preston asked, "What are you going to do with this." I think he might have wanted to take it home with him, but I'm sure it would not match his mother's well organized and coordinated kitchen!

Now and then my husband may give in to go with me, and really I don't suppose there is a rule stating I can't go alone. Most usually I had just soon shop alone, but Antique/flea stores are different. I reminisce while I'm there.

I'll have to get him to go again soon, as I have my eye on a ceremic bread box that would just fit in my kitchen. Sorry I didn't make any pictures. Actually I did make two, but don't have them downloaded yet. May add those later.
Blessings,
Grammyof13

The Conway ARTSFEST!

2009-10-10T13:30:00.000-05:00

I hope you know you may turn my choice of music off - if you had rather read without background music. Go to the bottom of my blog to the playlist radio and click on off. It is ok by me for you to turn it off!

My writing group took part in the Conway ARTSFEST last evening. In fact several such events have taken place in the course of the week since it started. Reading groups from Hendrix College as well as UCA had writing groups that took part in different areas of town. For our part in the event, we met at "Something's Brewing" coffee house, a wonderful place to meet friends and have a cup of joe!

The weather could have been a factor in our turn out, but even at that I was not disappointed. Shirley did a great job in getting the program ready as well as passing on the enthusiasm. She enlisted the help of JoEd another writer from our group, and together their team work paid off.

Among a couple Doctors, retired History professors and teachers, a Poet Lauret, friends and family and fellow writers, we listened to the offerings of each one's talents. Begginer poets, advanced poets, writers who write for enjoyment or for publication, then with singing intersperced, I will declare it was an enjoyable evening.

Our Poet Lauret has had several books of poetry published, and no one could read her work with the emphasis she does. In fact we've learned that is the general consensus of anyone's writings. Each writer has a voice for his/her own work.

After the coffee shop was closed, we went our different routes home. Except one of the readers who took himself to the Hospital. He was the last reader and read a story of he and his wife's trip to Ireland several years ago, and even during his reading he was having a heart attack.

Carroll is in intensive care in the hospital here. His wife Mary is unable to stay with him, so the friends we've made in this group will be coming to her aide and staying with her. If you pray, please pray for Carroll and Mary.

Grammyof13

Not Everyone Can Do It!

2009-10-06T23:18:00.003-05:00

Over the years in defending home schooling as an option, I've confronted many questions and a general negative feeling concerning the possible reasons Parents choose to home school instead of go through the public school system.

I don't know that I have sufficiently been a buffer for the program, but I do understand some of the reasons behind the choice. In the beginning the parents motives were more misunderstood than today hopefully, and rightfully so. There was very little help for Mothers in finding a cirruculum for their children in the early years, and too what was out there was expensive. A Mother knows if her child learns in different ways, whether visual, or hearing, or hands on, etc.

Some of the drawbacks I've heard is: 1. kids need interaction with others their own age.
2. the parent may not be educated enough to teach them.
3. they miss out on so much like school programs, sports, drama etc.
4. I wouldn't have the patience to teach them all day long.
5. etc. etc. etc.

I don't know whether I can rightly answer them all, and this may not be the place for it. However, again in defence of home schooled children, I can attest to the fact they aren't missing out on anything! The children I have become acquainted with these past few weeks are involved kids; in their church, church camps, sports of everykind, whether fishing or hunting with their Dad, paying on a winning team, they learn sportsmanship, they learn how it feels to fail, or to win, they learn team work and the game isn't won by one man, but all pulling together. They learn kindness, and to be polite as well as respectful.

My 7th and 8th grade class is made up of boys. They are at that comical stage of their life, when even I am entertained if I don't stay in control! Give them a subject and off they go writing out the answer, unintimitated and very expressive. Able to let me know in their writing they have command of the subject. They are respectful, they are well rounded, smart, and eager to learn. Someone has done them good this far, and the one day a week I have them in Enrichment Academy tells me they haven't miss anything by being homeschooled.

Some of them will go onto Highschool next year, and I would say these kids anyway are ready, even though they have not had the public school experience.

If a parent knows he/she is not capable to teach their child in a home setting, for whatever reason then they haven't made the choice to do so. It would be good for the public school teachers with no patience for kids in their teen years, to admit they can't do it either and stay away from the public school.

Again homeschooling is not for everyone, but for those parents who choose to live on one pay check so the other parent can home school their children, I praise them.

I must say something about my 5th and 6th grade writing class. I also have them for Geography/history, but for writing class I have a story.

Each week I give them a 10 minute assignment to start the class. I've given then the choice to "Tell me what you did during the summer", and such like. However today I got a little more creative in my thinking. I gave them two choices "1 - tell me how to make a grilled cheese sandwich in 6 sentences or more. OR - 2. - finish this sentence: I know a lot about ____________.

All of them picked up the first one and ran with it. In 10 minutes they gave me everything from "I don't like grilled cheese" to "I want a grilled cheese sandwich. to What is a Grilled Cheese Sandwich?" (not really on the last one.)

HOWEVER - one decided to take the second choice. In the same 10 minutes she wrote "I know a lot about the Galaxy". She convinced me she knew a lot about the Galaxy. I'll probably have to take myself to the internet or worldbook just to see if she is right - for it was beyond me. She sounded like she knew what she was talking about. I won't grade her on the correctness of her story though. Just the regular stuff like - punctuation, capitalization, neatness, spelling and how many sentences.

I haven't met her parents - I hope to - I want to meet the people who have taught this one how to study and also have caught onto the way she learns. She is brilliant - and another thing about this one - I'd like to know what her national test scores are - as it measures to others through out the state her age.

She is one example but I have another who is very unassuming in his smarts. I looked at him today and said, "Has anyone ever told you you were smart?" He dropped his eyes, then looked up at me before he, with much thought said, "Yea a few times!"

May the parents of my two age groups PLEASE STAND UP!

If I had known I could have this much fun after the age of 65, I might have arrived sooner!

Grammyof13

My Devotional Blog

2009-10-01T23:58:00.003-05:00

For those of us living in the fast lane - I have added a new Blog. I pray you will get a thought for the day and encouragement to keep you going. What I would love knowing is whether you have been able to sing during your night times or when you have anguish of soul.

Doris http:hegivessongsinthenight.blogspot.com or the Whippoorwill's Song

Friendship Bread

2009-10-01T12:55:00.000-05:00

I always wonder if anyone has noticed I've been out of sight for a few days. Doen't matter really, I am always busy doing something - even it isn't productive. I did start a new Blog to post my devotionals. It will give me a great outlet for those days when the need to talk about God and His goodness to us is so present, I feel I must write. I'll add it to my sidebar soon when I feel I have all the wrinkles out of the page.

Do you ever make "friendship bread"? My sister Nina in Tenn, gave me a starter last month, and boy have I enjoyed the delicious bread I've made. Tasting her scrumptious lemon bread made me anxious to do my own. Sure enough, my husband started eating the lemon bread for part of his breakfast, whereas I made it my afternoon snack. Wish you were here, we'd have Tea time. I have a new teapot and many teas to choose from.

Today is feeding day, and then on Sunday or Monday, I will make two more loaves and have some starter ready for a few friends. I always love hearing how they did, and what flavor they chose to make. I'm making the vanilla this time. Any of it is good, but for a change I think this will be fine. I'm trying to put some in the freezer for a fast dessert when we have an impromptu gathering.

My husband's job in retirement is to keep the kitchen and dining room clean. (self appointed I might add!! However, I sure don't discourage him"). It was this morning in fact, he held up the bag of starter dough, and asked if it was any good. He was ready to put it in the garbage. Didn't look inviting to him. I'm glad I was here to speak up or I'd been in trouble.

The weather is beautiful here. We are enjoying the cool - but dread the bad weather the winter brings. I don't do cold very well. I have no problem with the heat, but cold...?

Have a blessed week-end.

grammyof13

Dancing to the sound of my Own Drum!

2009-09-24T12:10:00.009-05:00

Well one mystery is solved since my last post. My husband came into my office with my cell phone in hand joyously telling me he found it. We really can't find anyone to blame for this one! Our pet Cricket was trying to get under the rocker in our bedroom (where my husband happened to be sitting). What Cricket was looking for we guessed to be a piece of Whether candy, as my husband is known to always have a ready stash that occasionally gets dropped. Well he finally got up from the chair to see what he was sniffing for, when he lifted the chair - there was my beloved phone! Another of the "who dunnits" that lurk in our senior home

ccasionally.

I've been thinking of a phrase I heard several years ago; Won't divulge why it came back as a thunderous thought into my pea brain at this time in my life. But it is interesting never the less, and one you can identify with. If not you personally, you know someone who "Dances to the sound of their own drum".

There could be a better phrase - I'll take your suggestions -but until I hear from you - this is the best I have to offer. In fact I took it personally when I heard it the first time. BECAUSE I saw myself as a little girl, then a growing teenager - all in a flash before my eye as one who "Danced to the sound of my own drum!"

You see, I've written about it before, how my Mother's rules and mine didn't always mesh! I heard her, "Don't get those new shoes wet" for instance, but bless me I did anyway. I was stepping high in those new white patent leather shoes, probably looking at my feet with each step. My sisters and I went to the creek. Why we went to the creek at the time when I was in my new shoes I don't remember. I sure don't remember if I was the only one who had new shoes on that day, but I was the only one who decided to try walking on the protruding rocks. You guessed it one foot and then the other went into the water. It was then, her words came back to me, but it was TOO late.

I've seen children today like that - who hear the same message everyone else does, but thinks it doesn't apply to them. When ask why they didn't comply, their response is usually "oh you meant me?"

DUH! I wonder now if any of my six sisters got into as much trouble as I did - by the mere fact I didn't think Mother meant me when it was a blanket warning! I'll try not to make myself sound so bad - cause I think eventually, the sound I was hearing began sounding like the one she was playing!

I really can't do much but laugh and then get frustrated as children (adults even) who can't comprehend plain English! I've seen mothers take ther child's face into her hands - make them look her into the eye - before proceeding with what she has already repeated 2 times before.

You see, I have to love 'em. Cause I understand 'em. I want to say to that mother, "be patient they can grow up to be like me!" Oops! That may not work. I may not be the best model to hold up to her.

And then again I could say "The beat they hear is much different than the one you hear for "her". That wouldn't work either - I'd have to go into detail as to what I mean and believe me I can't explain it either.

I wouldn't call our dancing dyslexia for we are happy-go-lucky kind of people who are secure in our surroundings. We don't always think of consequences as our intentions are to get "the same thing" done in our time, our way, and without help! We don't plan to get into trouble, it just happens because those in authority can't hear the beat of our drum.

When it is play time - we have fun! we may have fun when we should be working too - but that is beside the point. If you can dance with us - have patience with us - eventually we may all be dancing together.

Don't ask me where this blog came from - I can't explain that either.

You have a good week - and DANCE to whatever BEAT you hear! We can't Dance when we are flat of our back, eyes closed our hands folded across our chest!

Grammyof13

Hide N Seek

2009-09-19T11:04:00.016-05:00

There are only two people who live in this house. Well adding our four legged pet who thinks he is a people, call it three!

I'm in a dilemma this morning. One that has been preying on my mind for a few weeks now. It isn't the first time this has happened, but hopefully it will be the last; when I get it figured out anyway.

Often my newspapers get stacked up before I have time to read them. So when I do take time (in case I've missed any local happenings that may not have been on the evening news), I set at the end of the couch and neatly lay each section down on my right side as I finish. When I have finished I can fold them back into position and take them to the garbage. (we don't recycle here - wish we did I wouldn't feel so bad about throwing perfectly good newspapers away.)

Naturally Cricket, our four legged pet, has to read with me. I think he mostly gets in my face when I need to change the TV channels. So picture this, the paper spread out in front of me, Cricket finding his way under, over, or beside me so let me know he needs something. The TV is on a news station so I can hear what is going on (I stop reading if I hear anything better than the newspaper has). However my little people wanna be wants me to change channels or turn it up (I haven't been able to decipher what he's saying).

That must be how the remote control disappeared. 1. I could have thrown it out with the newspapers. 2. He may have hid it so he could control it when we are gone!.

#1 is probably the answer. I've looked everywhere - under sofa, under sofa cushions, under pillows on sofa, behind sofa, in chairs, in refrigerator (well it could happen!) in bedroom, in bathroom in my office - - - you get the picture. And know by this blog, the remote control is no where to be found. As this is the second one this year, I decided we would learn how to go back in time before there were such things as remote anything.

My husband has not resigned himself to life this way. I watch very little TV, so I'm OK with it. One thing however is this: Have you noticed the commercials are so loud? We get the TV adjusted to an ear level comfortable enough to hear talking or speaking as the case is. However we are jumping up again to lower the volume, when a commercial comes. Then again we are up to adjust to the program.

I'm really wondering if there is a conspiracy against the aging population. The little "who done its" that hide our things. Then "they" play with our minds on hearing levels!! I tell you there is "someone" behind this.

Sorry, I got carried away there for a second. I'm not a complainer really. I'm just tired of losing things. Like my cell phone. I remember distinctly giving it to my husband after I called AT&T to have them take some unwanted charges off the bill. Well - it is not under the sofa, behind the cushions, behind the sofa, not in my purse - not hooked up somewhere getting recharged......

I know the cell phone and the remote can be replaced (and they have) but I still spend time looking in places that have already been searched or "new" places I've found to search.

I don't like having to play hide n seek with inanimate objects. It would be more fun with the grand kids, or even Cricket.

Life is good and I'm enjoying every minute of it I ain't looking for something.

Grammyof13

Going Back To School!

2009-09-15T19:32:00.005-05:00

I came home around 2:45 exhausted and wondering why. My day was great. A new venture. I have no reason to wait until the next time to figure out I like it, I'll just confess now - I had a blast today.

Going into NLR was awful. I forgot about the morning traffic and how horrific it can be. I declare we need a rail system between Conway and LR with a stopover in NLR. Driving at a rate of 35mph, I didn't have to slow down when I read "speed zone ahead". The speed zone was still faster than I was driving. Aha the aggravation of a growing town.

There had been three wrecks about 15 miles into my trip, so naturally regardless of how the wreckers, patrolmen, and such were getting traffic flowing again, the rubberneckers were about to send me over the edge.

I kept my radio on and sang along to help slow down my beating heart. It worked. However my trip took at least an hour, when it should have been only 35min or so.

Oh I haven't told you where I was going! Pardon me. I had the privilege of teaching today in/for an Enrichment Academy for home schooled children. 5th & 6th grade Geography/History and Writing. 7th and 8th graders I teach writing. Oh my the fun I had and from the looks on their faces - I think they enjoyed the experience of this great grandmother and her way of telling something with a little color. (color meaning - not mundane, monotone, boring, etc. etc. etc.)

I did have one little girl questioning as to whether she was the smartest one in her class, and before I could answer she takes her eyes away from and casts them into the next generation and exclaimed in a slow thoughtful manner,"Oh yes, I guess you are smarter than any of us since you are older and have lived longer!"

I took that as an indication she had answered her own question. I'm not sure what my answer would have been - I'm just glad I escaped that one. Well alright, I'd have probably encouraged her but at the same time assured her that we aren't in a contest to see who is smarter. Some children need reassuring don't they?

I've suggested they keep a journal, so I need to follow suit.

Grammyof13

Watermelon or Pumpkin

2009-09-09T20:12:00.008-05:00

Back in the spring, three of my precious sisters who are master gardeners in their own right, took on the job of landscaping the nursing home where Daddy lives. It was no easy undertaking as the nursing home works on a shoe string budget (or so they say). My sisters added money to their offering and went to work to make the grounds presentable and welcoming.

One of the Brothers-in-law built two wood gardens and even fancied it up with golden knobs to cover what might otherwise be a sharp edge of one of the end pieces. It was a two level easy enough to garden from a wheel chair or even bending. The residents were encouraged to plant their own garden. My sisters did some beginning planting but tomatoes and cucumbers were also added. Thinking it would give the residence something to get their hands into, although they kept a watch on it whenever they visited.

Strangely enough there was a beautiful vine with what looked like Watermelon. Green watermelon. It could not be proven by me, the farmer who never was! I knew the vine looked familiar, but was not sure if the round green things growing were watermelon or pumpkin. Residents are going out to the porch to discuss whether the green round thing is a pumpkin or a watermelon. No one ever wins the argument, at least until now.

While visiting Daddy this past week-end, we did our visiting mostly on the porch where the sun could bake his legs. He declares the reason he can't walk is because of being in an air conditioned building all the time. He may be right. No one wants to argue with a man who has lived to be 101.

His best friend Pete, (a gentlemen whom he has met since he moved in there in early 07), also came to the porch to join our circle. The conversation goes from what used to be, raising tobacco and corn, even fishing. Which they have a story to tell about fishing.

It seems the Activities director took several of the men fishing. Daddy has his trusted rod and reel, and he knows the line is strong enough to catch a 20 lb. anything. He has his lures, and whatever else a fisherman needs. So he sets his tackle box, his fishing gear close to the door and is ready when the van door opens.
Here is his account.

"They took us fishing the other day. Now how they thought we could catch a fish, in a muddy pond that a frog couldn't live in, I don't understand. Why that was no fishing hole. I got to the bank and was ready. I asked for my fishing pole, and they didn't bring it. I waited and waited, and kept asking where my pole was. When they brought it to me, they had changed the line, and showed me a piece of string that was all unraveled. They told me that my line was old and rotted and wouldn't hold a fish. I told 'em I knew better than that cause it had always held any size fish I'd ever caught!"

He's decided he won't go anymore, for they think cause he is 101 he doesn't know anything. My theory is this, I wonder when they'll learn not to tell a fisherman how to catch fish or when his gear is inoperable? Not in his life time.

Back to the green thing growing under this beautiful vine. On our way out the door after lunch, we asked him if he'd like to go by the "garden" to examine the mysterious green pumpkin! (I thought of Kathleen and her green pumpkin).

It didn't take him long to examine it and solve the query. It was a pumpkin that would be yellow in time. So now that that is settled we get back to the porch and the rocking chairs and listen to him tell Pete about his "farmer girls that don't know the difference in a watermelon and pumpkin!!"

We watched as another elderly resident, bibbed overalls and all took on the daily responsibility to check the tomato vines. His window sill was lined with tomatoes he has gathered several times a day. Some residents think he should share, but that ain't happening yet. However I did see a few in Daddy's window as well.

Pete was enjoying the shrubbery and flowers, talking about how my sisters had spent hours, hot hours even, to get it done. Then within arms length of him, there was a man, who seemed all forlorn, just setting there. Minding his own business, however he answered a minister friend who came by that he was waiting for someone to pick him up and they hadn't come.

I noticed his can in hand, but his spit never went into it. However into the flowers and shrub instead. This agitated Pete and he decided to handle it. "He is killing the flowers and shrub the girls worked so hard to make. " He said it loud enough for any who still had their hearing to hear - however those who didn't - well....

As the activity director was walking to her car after work, Pete decided to get her attention and "tell" on the spitter. "He is killing the flowers and shrub with his tobacco juice!" I watched her handle the situation and I thought she did a good job in "spitting" on a burning candle that could easily have turned into a blaze of fire.

I admire these people who take on the responsibility of helping life to be a bit easier for the elderly.

I admire them for being conscientious of a life that could be boring and mundane, and yes even bleak or depressing.

I admire them for taking in stride their remarks that are often unkind and unappreciative.

I admire them for learning to laugh at themselves.

I admire them for doing a thankless job for the most part and staying in the game of life working toward making someone elses life a bit better.

May they never have to live in an Extended care facility, and if they do - May the Lord surround them with people who care as they have cared.

Grammyof13

Technology Advancement?

2009-08-31T13:50:00.004-05:00

I was asked if I'd mind being featured in our local paper's "Neighbors" column several months ago.

"Oh why not," I replied and made an appointment to get my picture made, and the questions to answer.

Among questions like my occupation, family, what I might be a collector of, etc. etc., there was a question that came back to my mind this morning. "The greatest technology advancement in your life time" was the question. I evidently did not spend much time on the answer. "Cell Phone" was all I could think of and since then I want to fill the answers in again, so I can give more thought to them all.

Cell Phone is a great advancement, the fax machine, color TV, the Computer. Now that should have been my answer - The Computer. Because today my world is much larger because of my PC that sets in my office and comes on when I touch the right button, and immediately I am connected to anyone who has WWW.

I look at the map of the world on this blog and am amazed at the people in so many countries that stumble across my attempts at being witty or serious, according to what mood I'm in.

Of course, I feel well acquainted with many of the writers whose blogs I have listed on the side bar. We're like a community within ourselves - and truly except for the PC I would never know such wonderful people. I would know nothing about their lives, their likes, their battles or their humor. I would not know Kate in Scotland, or Judy in KY, or Betsy in Tenn or, Kathleen in TX, or, or, or...

Saturday during our get-to-gather for my husband's 70th birthday - some of us gravitated to the computer where we viewed wedding pictures of a "girl" in Florida who onced lived here. Mind you the party was the same as over since everyone had gone but one couple and my children who were visiting from Oklahoma.

Without my trusted PC, how (or the question could be WHEN ) would I ever have viewed the pictures otherwise? Her Mother and Father and sister as well as Angel herself, were dear dear friends of ours who moved back to Miami several years. As we do not keep in constant touch, I did not know Angel was seriously dating anyone. So with the surprise of the news, we also were able to view her pictures and reminisce about our happy times together.

I may come up with something else to top the PC as the greatest technology of my lifetime, but I am hard pressed to think of anything significant now.

Years ago, I may have said the "milking machine". Hello!!! Or - new shoes that didn't hurt my feet. Amen! OR - Walmart where even my Mother could afford to shop!! Yea! Walmart took the place of Sears Roebuck Catalogue! Thank you Lord!

I know I am a simple woman - it doesn't take much to make me happy.

Have a good week.

Grammyof13

Senior Citizens Center.

2009-08-27T23:20:00.004-05:00

My neighbor Ruth and I have a date each Friday. Well - really - we just started last week, but we are like a couple school girls when we go anywhere together. Ruth is about 9-10 years older than I, but I think sometimes she is younger than me. Her youthful spirit keeps her going like the energizer bunny. After breast cancer and double mastectomy - back surgery and other ills, she has a zest for life that makes me proud to be her neighbor.

My husband and I once frequented the Senior Citizens Center at least once a week, and for sure I attend the Conway Creative Writers group that meets at the Senior Center on Friday afternoon. But we stopped going - and don't actually remember why. However Ruth and I decided to go have lunch on Fridays and then stay for Bingo.

The prizes are - well - donated for the most part. There were books, (some I'd love to had my hands on) and I really didn't look too close as I just love the game - not thinking about a prize for having filled my card etc.
My husband joined us for Lunch and stayed for Bingo as well. As lady luck would have it, he and I yelled Bingo at the same time. When we got to the table to select our prize there was nothing left. I say nothing for what can I say about a container of underarm deodorant, and a thing that looked like it had once been a refrigerator magnet that held things sorta like a "clippie" or "clothes pin". Whatever it was used for is still any one's guess for the magnet (if there ever was one) was gone - it was difficult to open.

I took it to writing group and we had a discussion as to what its intended use might have been. "Money Clip" was another suggestion. Since I have no money to clip I decided to bring it home and leave in a pencil/pen box for a conversation piece.

It is really not about the prize I've decided. It is the camaraderie of people the same age having fun including a laugh or two. One of the volunteer directors met me before I set down and asked if I'd sing the song made famous by Julie Andrews. "These are a few of my favorite things". The one she rearranged to spell old age.
"Maalox, & nose drops & etc. etc."

Anyway, Ruth and I are going to Brunch tomorrow and then to Bingo. She is such a joy - and I'm glad to count her my friend.

We're celebrating Dad's (my husband's) birthday Saturday with family and friends. It isn't every year one celebrates the big 70.

I trust you have a great week-end.

Grammyof13

He's Everywhere!

2009-08-24T11:04:00.006-05:00

I went to the deck this morning for some quiet time. And that is exactly what I found. There was not a tree leaf moving, a squirrel scurring, or a bird singing. In fact I didn't hear the sound of a dog barking or a kid playing.

The trees are still looking so pretty and green almost as much as they were in spring. I'm thankful for all the rain that has kept them so pretty

I sat there looking up at the blue sky through a window left by the tree branches that reach out to each other. I did not see a cloud only a clear blue sky that could say, 'all is right with the world'. Momentarily one can forget there is trouble everywhere, unrest, uncertaintity, fear and dread with no hope. Maybe that is a good thing. For taking "minute vacations" as I call them, it gives the soul and body time for refreshment it so desparately needs in our day and times. Stopping to realize that God is in His Heaven and sees it all.

I thought of a song I sang many many years ago. Only a few words came back to me, but enough to apply them to the morning quietness.

I see Him in a Baby's smile

I hear Him in the Winds that sigh

He loves me and I know not why

He's Everywhere!

Then I thought of this Psalm of David - and How it best describes my heart this morning.

Psa 139:1 LORD, you have examined me and you know me.
Psa 139:2 You know everything I do; from far away you understand all my thoughts.
Psa 139:3 You see me, whether I am working or resting; you know all my actions.
Psa 139:4 Even before I speak, you already know what I will say.
Psa 139:5 You are all around me on every side; you protect me with your power.
Psa 139:6 Your knowledge of me is too deep; it is beyond my understanding.
Psa 139:7 Where could I go to escape from you? Where could I get away from your presence?
Psa 139:8 If I went up to heaven, you would be there; if I lay down in the world of the dead, you would be there.
Psa 139:9 If I flew away beyond the east or lived in the farthest place in the west,
Psa 139:10 you would be there to lead me, you would be there to help me.
Psa 139:11 I could ask the darkness to hide me or the light around me to turn into night,
Psa 139:12 but even darkness is not dark for you, and the night is as bright as the day. Darkness and light are the same to you.
Psa 139:13 You created every part of me; you put me together in my mother's womb.
Psa 139:14 I praise you because you are to be feared; all you do is strange and wonderful. I know it with all my heart.
Psa 139:15 When my bones were being formed, carefully put together in my mother's womb, when I was growing there in secret, you knew that I was there---
Psa 139:16 you saw me before I was born. The days allotted to me had all been recorded in your book, before any of them ever began.
Psa 139:17 O God, how difficult I find your thoughts; how many of them there are!
Psa 139:18 If I counted them, they would be more than the grains of sand. When I awake, I am still with you.

Even the mornings I fail to stop and enjoy the quiet on my deck, the sky is just as lovely. The morning is equally as quiet and serene. The Birds chirping or squirrels scurring may be part of the day, but it is I who fail to be a part of it all. It is I who is less whole for not partaking in God's glory on any particular day I stay indoors.

Through storms of fear and doubt I sailed my eyes were blinded by a vale
I saw no beauty anywhere in anything
Then I drew near the cross where He in shame and sorrow died for me
My vale was lifted and He taught my heart to sing

I see Him in a baby's smile...
I hear Him in the winds that sigh

He loves me and I know not why

He's Everywhere.

Take time to enjoy this beautiful weather and REMEMBER to - Live all your days!

Grammyof13

Ramblings!

2009-08-21T08:20:00.005-05:00

Oh to be young again! On second thought - that may not be a good wish. Would I want to go through puberty again? First loves? Broken hearts? poverty? Yes poverty. Who hasn't gone through bad times of need - well maybe with the exception of those born with "silver spoons"?

I was ignorant of being poor when I was growing up. We had food, shelter and a place to play - our neighbors were equal - we had no television to let us see there was a world out there thriving, therefore we accepted that the way it was-was the way it was!!

I'm sure my parents had seen better times and wished for their lives to be better, but for the most part we were shielded from knowledge of how much money they had in their pocket. Of course now with the advantage of looking back from a loftier stand, I remember my Dad coming in from the field for supper. A man who ate quiet heartily as a rule, decided he wasn't very hungry and ate milk and bread; Leaving the vegetables to his children.

Oh yes, to be young again in this day and age of liberation might be a different story. I've always maintained I was born a generation too soon. I could get with the electronics age - if my brain worked better. I think I'd make a better employee today - a more serious one for sure. And then I just might follow the same pattern that my now life has taken. The path of a missionary/Bible teacher.

I truly can't think of another kind of life really, in light of where I've been. The paths I've taken to bring me into the 21st century. I would hope I faced those paths with more boldness and maybe even take a few trails I didn't take the first time around. For surely there are more people to meet, greet and minister to.

I really can't tell you where this line of thinking came from. It is kinda sad not to have something new and wonderful to write about! Maybe soon things will change. It looks like my life is going to get busy.

One of my daughters-in-law started a home school "Enrichment Academy" a few years ago. A place where Mothers bring their home schooled children for other studies they may not teach but want their kids exposed to. Like Spanish, music, writing, History - etc. etc. etc. I have accepted the job of teaching writing and History. I am so excited - I'm busting my buttons! Right down my alley. I know I'll enjoy it - just hope I do something for the kids one day a week.

Trust your week-end will be a good one. - May you live all your days!

Grammyof13

Dog Sitter!

2009-08-17T22:36:00.009-05:00

Somebody is messing with my mind. When I logged in just now, it was in a language I can't pronouce, much less spell. How I got translated into hindi, spanish, german or whatever it was I'll never figure out.

Here goes another of those things passed from one generation to another. "Always wear clean underwear, you never know when you might be in a wreck!"

Well that is true, the part about never knowing whether we would be in a wreck, and it is true we must never leave the house in dirty underwear. What I have trouble with is picturing the medics or fireman or emergency personnel being aware that my underwear wasn't anything but clean.

To answer this question I posed it to my son who is a paramedic. I didn't get much satisfaction, other than "We cut your pants off (I think he meant a man's pant leg) if we need to get to the source of trauma". I could just see having on a new pair of expensive jeans and having them cut down the leg or up the leg whatever the case. Forgot all about my origional question, concerning clean underwear.

I'll change the subject for a few minutes and tell you about our darling 4 legged - hairy baby! I declare there is more conversation in this house now than the last 10 years combined! Ain't that sad. We never were much at conversation - I decided I don't like repeating myself three times to be heard. The TV is loud so we can hear. However in these past few months, it is turned down and our entertainment has been Cricket.

I didn't realize how much I missed a "kid" around. I have him singing now!! Honest. I've taught each of the grandones a silly song or two. I've mentioned before concerning them, I get age confusion when I'm with them. I forget I'm pressing down on 70.

So for a treat, I tell him to "sing Cricket" - he barks a couple times then raises his head and howls a note or two.
He'll do anything for a treat. So I decided I'd teach him to hug. Promising him a treat I ask him if he wants a hug. He gets close enough to where I'm setting that I take his front paws, place them on my shoulders and we hug. He lays his head on my shoulder beside a foot, lays so still while I hug him and tell him what a good boy he is.

I know, I know. I'm thinking about making a video so I can carry when I visit my sisters or my friends. I figure we can watch the Cricket video and eat popcorn. Can't you just see me never getting an invitation to come see anyone again!!!

We carry on so about all the great things our grandchildren do, (I do at least - I have some of the sweetest and smartest you know!) And lets face it, there is rally only so much one can tell about their dog. Its like trying to compete with someone by trying to tell a bigger tale then they concerning their pet.

I haven't started teaching him to roll over yet. I'm not sure there is a purpose in that one anyway. He is getting close to shaking hands. Like I say, I'm telling you we are a pitiful sight where this little fellow is concerned. He came just at a time in our lives that our days are brightened by his antics.

The neighbor kids love him. In fact we answered the front door today. There was a young boy 9 years old, with a girl I didn't know who was probably 7 or 8. "Ms Thompson, could we baby sit your dog?" He asked shyly. My husband was about to dismiss them, when it dawned on me - we would need a sitter when we go see Daddy in a couple weeks.

I said, "Well, how much money we talking about?"

"Fifty Cents?" he answered in the form of a question.

"Well I have a better idea. How about a couple or three nights when we go to Tenn."

His face brightened at the thought.

"Go ask your mother - we wouldn't want to make plans til we got her permission."

They left, and shortly they were at the door again. Clay stood at my door, his little friend at the end of the driveway. "She just wants to keep him about three hours today", he said pointing to his friend. I told him as long as we were home it wasn't necessary for anyone to keep him, however I might let them walk him some afternoon.

Anyway, I know you don't have anything better to do today than to sit here and read about "Cricket The Great!" So I'll have mercy on you and stop rambling.

Don't you just love us ole people?

Grammyof13

Other Carry Overs!

2009-08-15T11:54:00.006-05:00

I remember the first time I actually wore a skirt, just a few months ago in fact, and did not wear a slip! Horrible person that I am - I decided if these young people can do it, I can too. Totally ignoring my Mother's warning that you don't show your hinnie to others, or for sure everyone else can see through it to your legs!

Never would we leave home without a petty coat (I prefer to call slip) under our dress or skirt. While my first grandchildren were bordering teens, I cautioned them to wear a slip. When they didn't, I decided they must not have one to wear, so I go shopping. They still didn't wear one. It took me forever to realize we are living in the age of liberation. In the 80's women were still "burning their bra" - a trend that started the era of liberation in the 60's.

The first time I wore a skirt without a slip to church, I slipped over to one of my granddaughters (who by the way are both mothers themselves now) and said in a whisper, "Would you ever in your wildest imagination believe that I am without a slip today!!" Oh my the laugh that brought. I may surprise them with a few other liberation's before I leave this world. Gives them something to laugh about later!

Betsy from Tenn mentioned how our parents put great stock in what others thought about us. Poor as job's turkeys we were, yet we lived to high standards not to be called white trash! That lead to what the neighbors might think if I set in the car in the driveway, no less, with my boyfriend. Mind you that never happened but once, for my father promptly opened the door and drug me out - me trying to protest that we were only talking. The windows were not fogged over (!) but it was that old custom that no decent girl was to do that. "No telling what the neighbors thought." Never mind there were acres and acres between each farm where a house set!

Cleanliness is next to Godliness. Never could find that in the scripture anywhere, but we lived by it. Even with a brood of six growing girls, Mothers house was clean. We helped her clean the vinyl floors on Saturday each week. She cleaned and waxed them, then after the wax had dried to a dull finish, we took turns pulling each other across the floor to shine it!

Now that I think of it, that may not have happened but once or twice in those years, but the fun we had makes me think it was each Saturday when she had us help her with the cleaning. Can't say we were any more Godly after we finished cleaning, but she felt better anyway.

Oh yes, was it that it was tradition or the times, I do not know. However we only wore dresses to school. We never had shorts or jeans - a lot of it came from our Pentecostal roots. Yet I wonder the reasoning behind not wearing shorts - even under a dress. Cause before the day was over we were turning flips and somersaults in our dress showing everything but Sunday. But we still had on a dress!!!

Did you ever look for 4-leaf clovers! Oh my they were good luck. And who doesn't need good luck. We crawled over the ground finding those ever elusive 4-leaf clovers that brought us luck. We immediately stopped looking with we found one - they went straightway and pressed them in between the pages of a book.
I'm still not sure if it brought us any luck.

Then there were the little yellow flowers that grew on clovers. If, when holding the flower up under your chin, it showed a reflection - then you had a boy friend! Or when we removed petals from a daisy or other flower, we chimed, "He loves me, he loves me not" as we pulled out each petal. I don't always remember who "he" was, but momentarily I felt loved by somebody.

I would hope there are no children who get their self esteem by the judgment of others. However there were days when I felt like I might be worth something, then other times I wasn't so sure. Once while we waited on the bus in the afternoon at school, I remember myself and a group of my friends wanted an 8Th grader to see who wrote the best on the black board. I was never picked, so I don't really think I have good penmanship even today!

Oh my, here I go again with memories flooding me these past few days. Thanks for the input and please let's do it again. I'm sure you can come up with something beside these few. Have a blessed week-end.

Grammyof13

Carry Overs!

2009-08-12T22:34:00.004-05:00

Busy at my jelly making I've been thinking. My under counter radio will hardly pick up a radio station worth listening to - the TV is in another room - so I either sing to myself or think.

I thought of Mama. She died in 1999 but occasionally she and I visit - with thoughts of her or something she said that plays in my mind. She was like other mothers in the 40's & 50's I'm sure, but I have no basis really, to compare for she was ours (mine).

"Y'all need to play outside in the sunshine. Sunshine makes you pretty!" was one of her sayings. I'm not sure if it worked - meaning if it got us out of the house and from under her feet. But I do remember loving to play in out doors. I think there were a few times I went inside to a mirror to see if it was working. Not seeing any change, I gave up looking after awhile.

"Stay in the shallow water until you learn to swim!" was another warning we received when we headed to the creek on a hot summer day. There was no deep water - or at least not enough that we could walk under. Waist deep was about it.

"Don't get close to a Tarapin, for if it bites your toes, it will not turn loose until it thunders! (a Tarapin is a moderate-sized turtle. Native in eastern North America. ) Another tidbit of information is this:
a turtle with four webbed feet, a shell like that of a tortoise, and a retractable head. Terrapins are usually smaller than tortoises, live in fresh water and on land, and are carnivorous. This one had me mortally afraid - especially in the long dry summers we tended to have. I could see trying to get my shoes on with a turtle attached to my foot!

Also one of the most exciting things my sisters and I loved doing was climbing the big stack of shavings left from a sawmill. Occasionally men would come set up their equipment to purchase the lumber off the land - make cross-ties and I don't remember what else - but the best thing was the pile of dust and shavings they left behind. Daddy was always afraid there would be a snake hidden in the haystack looking thing the shavings made.

Unlike today, when Parents give honest answers to inquisitive children, Mother gave us a vague answer so as to leave her alone until later when we'd understand the grown up questions we were asking.

Like, "Mama, where did I come from?" I had heard my friends say they were from Michigan, or Kentucky. They had moved here from somewhere else. I liked that idea and hadn't realized I had always lived on the farm except for the early years when we lived in Michigan. That was the point of my question. I hadn't remembered living in Michigan, so I was intrigued about where I had lived before moving to our house. But instead of getting a strait answer - I heard her say, "Ireland, digging taters". Now how is that for an answer to where did I come from????

Or better still, "I found you in a cabbage patch!" Not being old enough to think that one through, maybe that is where the term "Cabbage Patch doll" came from!

"You clean your plate, you know there are starving people in China!" Why China? Why not Africa, or South America? Didn't make me feel any better "lickin" my plate clean!! The kids wherever were still hungry if I ate it all or if I didn't. "The poor you will have with you always", Jesus said.

How about you? There are many others I'm sure, but my eyes are getting heavy. Maybe this train of thought will continue and I'll come back with more. Give me some ideas of your adolescence years. What was your mother or father's favorite for you?

Grammyof13 Goodnight!

Hellos and Good byes!

2009-08-09T22:36:00.003-05:00

It has been a memorable couple of weeks to be sure. I made a lot of pictures and had everyone sign my program. One young man has appeared in many of the Dinner Theatre productions, finished school with a degree in musical performance and is on his way to N.Y. I have no doubt he will go somewhere he is so talented - funny or serious - he is very good.

I'm sure I'll run into many of my new found friends on occasion, but I find when I take inventory of my life thus far, my life has been a series of hello's and I hope to "see ya later!" In fact an interesting tidbit of information: My husband and a couple friends went last night for the last performance. My husband has an eye for people he has seen or even talked with and even though he may not be able to call them by name immediately, he doesn't mind giving himself time to figure out where he has known you from before he just out right ask, "Did you and your husband own a store in Little Rock several years ago?"

The lady replied, "Well yes we did in the Twin Lakes area off..." and she told the street. She also told him her name, and immediately they connected. We were customers of theirs when we needed a loaf of bread or a pound of bacon. Progress closed them down and now a Police precinct is on the spot where the store once was.

While waiting for the show to start, she asked about our children and how they were (they were teenagers when we knew them best). Good byes, and Hellos. I've thought of the friends I made when I was traveling so much. The girls I was with most every week-end as we boarded a plane in our town, and met up in Atlanta or Dallas. The week-end of ministry being over, we went our separate ways again. Some I've seen since then, others I said good bye and our paths haven't crossed again.

As life goes on, I'm sure there will be times like this again. Even in the blogging world - I've for sure said hello to a lot of people with hopes of "wouldn't it be neat if we were to all meet one day face to face?"

Anyway back to now. My husband went back to work today and left his constant companion in my care. I'm sure I won't have the patience he does when it comes to playing "throw, catch, retrieve and return", only to have to do it repeatedly many times in an hour.

My husband has definitely ruined him for anyone else, Cricket that is. I got up at 7:30 one morning to take him outside. He kept going back to the bedroom. I figured he was trying to get my husband up so he'd take him out. Anyway, after about three tries, I get his leash on him and out we go. I just knew he was so excited to get outside he would do his job right away. But no - he ran and played, and romped. I came back in to tell Verlon that I had to get to therapy earlier than usual, so he got up and finished the morning walk. When they got back in the house - Cricket was given a treat - naturally he had done his morning job while he was walked him.

We'll see if he can hold it until my husband gets back in town Tuesday. Just kiddin'.

Making grape jelly this week. Cooked the grapes tonight to get my juice. Still have enough to make another batch after this. I love making jelly - it is a rewarding pastime for me.

Grammyof13

America's Got Talent!

2009-08-05T14:18:00.004-05:00

Taking a break has been good for me. I am getting better on my British accent. Enough to feel better at myself.

Have any of you been watching America's Got Talent?" I just love that show. My favorite so far (well in fact there are several that I would vote for, but...) the young man from Kentucky. Naturally I don't remember his name, but he seems so pure and honest and genuine. If he doesn't win - I don't think he'll have to catch chickens for the rest of his life. Someone will grab him up for a recording contract.

Then there's the young family whose mother is always waiting in the wings. They broke into the hardest of hearts when they sang, God Bless America the first time I heard them. Their harmony can only come from families who sing together. There is just a different tight harmony when brothers and sisters harmonize. They would do America proud if they won.

I can't judge dancing - maybe because I've never been a dancer. Getting old has taken the bounce out of my steps. In fact I can hardly maneuver steps anymore.

My back therapy is doing very well. I was beginning to wonder if it was doing any good. I'm into my 3rd week of 20 treatments - and just now actually seeing results. I was on the verge of giving up last week I hurt so bad after each session.

Anyway, got to get into my day - what's left of it.

Grammyof13

2 Down - 2 To Go

2009-08-02T13:59:00.008-05:00

I can report the first two performances of Oliver the musical, went great. Minor mishaps on Friday night, but Saturday night went great. Like I said before, I may never get this opportunity again, so why not milk it for all its worth. Agree!

I knew the men and women that carried most of the speaking parts were good, but when I read a program with their bio, I was very impressed. From the Directors to the many children, this was not their first stage play and their abilities proved it. I've decided to call our town, "Conway's Got Talent".

There is one other elderly lady who had a three year soap opera, that she and one of her radio co-workers wrote and acted in. It ran for three years with gaining popularity each year. She has also been active in and around the theatre for many years. Anyway, I sing with her in the Conway's Women Chorus and did not know what a kind lady she was.

To show you her sense of humor, I came in on Friday and she had made her a dressing room! Notice how creative she is - drawing a few stars on the Bassett Furniture Box she found, even making a door that pulled shut! Isn't that a hoot? She tried dressing with all the kids but it wasn't working out very well. So she improvised.

My daughter-in-law Stephanie got a few pictures, and this one I was able to retrieve to pass on. You can read her take on the whole performance in "The Thompson's" blog. She might appreciate you stopping by.

Two down, and two to go and I'm loving it. My lines don't make or break the play, but it gives others a chance to reveal a truth about Oliver's past.

Thanks for your encouraging words.

Grammyof13!

Long Week.

2009-07-28T13:28:00.003-05:00

Hectic week and long evenings makes for one tired Grammyof13. Rehearsal went late last night, and will again the rest of the week. I sure couldn't work and do this too. It is fun and for sure I know now there is no talent in me for future plays!! I think I'll stick to what I know I can do. Sing and write! Probably in that order as well.

My husband has made a great friend and earned a good companion with Cricket. They have been left alone so much these past few days I think they understand each other! He is still the smartest dog ever, sorry about yours!!! It is fun watching him play, and so far he hasn't learn to play alone, it is more fun to get us involved. My husband says he goes to the door and watches for me when I'm gone. Awe......!

Reading others blogs, but usually too busy to write. So until I have a free minute....

Grammyof13

Will & Alex

2009-07-21T23:09:00.010-05:00

My Oldest Great Grandson had his big 7th birthday last week. It is a known fact that I get confused in the toy section or a toy store, so I opted for taking him with me to get his own gift.

---Will---

Well he wanted his little soon to be 5 year old brother to go as well. Alex was so excited to get to go with Grammy and Papa. Not getting to spend a lot of time with them, it was a treat for us as well as the two of them.

Alex asked his mother for $6. He felt like he needed six dollars on him so "perchance" he saw something he wanted he'd have money. On the way to Target, Will said in his big brother fashion "That won't be enough money to buy anything!" Alex argued it, "It will too!"

ALEX

I spoke up and said, "Grammy will add to it if he doesn't have enough. Now what I said, and what Alex heard was two totally different things. Somehow Alex heard, he could get two presents!! So after finding one, he breathlessly started searching for his second one. Will didn't mind that it was his birthday and not Alex. Alex wasn't thinking birthday so he delved in, talking the whole time. He called me "rammy", "Mimi", "Granny" and occasionally he got it right! I didn't care I just knew that was one of the sweetest voices calling my name. Will on the other hand is a man of few words, and when he does speak - we listen!

Next we went to TCBY. The boys were able to tell me what the letters stood for. I was impressed. This picture is after we had finished, and I promise Michelle, they are not on the table, but high stools. We didn't want to leave, but knew if we stayed any longer, we'd order more ice cream and since we were on our way to supper at the church we refrained.

Alex thought it would be better, if we went for Ice Cream at my house. "It would be better at your house!" Now he is winning my heart even more. Especially the more he talks. I like the idea of coming to my house for any reason. We are now planning a sleep over (as long as his brother and mother can come!)

This one is the smile and cute face of Cricket. He is taking his new surroundings just fine - his only demand is to be loved and cared for. And we are enjoying doing it. Oh by the way - for those who know a little about our schedules, you will gasp in surprised wonder that we are up at 6:30 am to take him outside. And yes, we stay up.

When we were in Oklahoma a few weeks ago, (4th of July week-end) the little town of Ochalata had a parade. Now mind you the town may have a 1000 people but everyone of them turned out for the patriotic parade. Other towns participated with their fire trucks but mostly it was just "us". There were floats and queens and politicians. Everyone throwing Candy. Oh yes! My daughter got enough to last until way past Halloween!

I loved the motorcycles, the fire trucks, the home made derby cars, the four wheelers, but of importance to me were the farm tractors dating back to the 50's at least. I may have let a few pass by - when it dawned on me John Deere? No. Another brand? No. A farm-al yes!

When I saw a Farm-all I yelled at the young driver to stop. So holding up the parade a few minutes, he allowed me to get my picture made beside the model of the first tractor I ever drove. (or should I say, Cadillac convertible). It is amazing how the imagination can go anywhere when one is 14 or so.

Isn't it neat. I wish it had been closer and for sure this one didn't have farm dust all over it, but It was a brother to the first tractor my farmer Dad ever owned. I may not have the exact same model, but I know I came close.

Anyway. That is it for now. Today is bath day for a little four legged critter that lives here.

Grammyof13