livinglifeafter65

Baby's Smile.

2012-02-08T12:57:00.000-06:00

What is it about the face of a newborn that melt the hearts of us mother or grandmothers for that matter. I was doing my daily ritual of going over facebook this morning to catch up on the goings on when I saw a picture of a baby posted by one of my FB friends. I don't even know the family, but had to stare at the picture momentarily. He was so pure and sweet and beautiful. He was being held with such tender hands and loving arms.

I am reminded of the song:

"I see Him in a baby's smile,

I hear Him in the wind that sighs

He loves me and I know not why

He's everywhere

"He calls me from a world of care,

I seek Him and I find Him there,

He is in my heart, I feel Him there

He's everywhere."

It is the first part that made me think of the old song; I see Him in a baby's smile.

I remember a story as well, which was told at a baby dedication that said: A little brother was heard to say while he peered over the bassinet of his new baby sister, "Hey tell me what God is like before you forget."

A baby, so fresh from God. So brand new and dependent. So dependent on everyone around Him to meet is every need. He can't give of himself. He doesn't say thank you to anyone. He just lays there and we anticipate his needs.

Nostalgic for today you say? I think it has something to do with age. Maybe not. However I do take a little longer to look at the face of a baby. I love it when they start smiling and paying attention. I love it when they start finding their way around grandma's house and exploring, getting into the pot and pans and reeking havoc on the dog's bowl. I even smile when I hear they learn how to roll the toilet paper off the roll and strew it all over the house, or put it in the commode.

I hate it however when they experience not everyone thinks they are special and they get their feelings hurt. Usually at school or in other social circles and it comes usually later in childhood than in the first few years. I really do hate to see them cry because they feel unaccepted. I know it is a part of growing up to become men/women. I really do, but it doesn't make me like it any better.

Where this blog came from I don't know, except for the picture I saw on FB this morning of the unknown (to me anyway) baby with the heavenly angelic smile.

To quote someone on the blogsphere "It is my blog and I'll write what I want to write". hehe

Grammyof15

What to do, What to do?

2012-01-08T14:59:00.002-06:00

I've tried blogging several times in the past few days, only to walk away. I got a new freelance writing job so I've been giving my attention to making a little money.

Today has been an interesting day. My husband usually goes after the mail, but I braved the cold today and took myself to the mailbox. I don't care if it is an advertisement, I like going through the mail. It is sad that no one writes personal letters anymore. I'm guilty. I look back at the times I received a letter from my mother. I still find those letters occasionally when i am cleaning house, and I'm reminded of her sitting in her chair writing her letter before the mail comes, and even sending Daddy to the end of the big yard to get it in the mail. I'm glad we didn't have e-mail then, or facebook. She would have been left out anyway, as was my Dad. He could not get it in his head how this new technology could send the written word over a wire through the air or however it was explained to him and someone hundreds of miles away could read it in an instant. I'm sure skype would really blow his mind today.

That aside, my mail had something that looked like a check. You know how checks from the government and many companies are so sealed it takes, folding along this side, then fold along that side, tear and again tear there and when we finally get to the inside our anticipation has mounted so we nearly rip the actual check to get our eyes on it.

This one looked official. I couldn't tell who it was from, but I knew the tale tale signs of it being a check. Always needing money, I do get excited to see where or who it is from. I've been disappointed a few times when I learned it was $350 only to be spent on the company who sent it.

Of course I try not spend it until I see how much I'm looking at. My check today has given me a problem. I don't know what to buy. I don't know whether to frame it and hang it up. No, I've decided it is my money and I am not giving them the benefit of not cashing it!!!

I asked for suggestions on facebook and several responded, but I'll take any suggestion from you, so I'll be sure to spend it wisely. After all it was an unexpected windfall, and I want to do right by it.

One of my biggest quandaries is the fact I don't know how much tithe to pay on it. I know a tithe is 10% but give me a break. Give me your thoughts on how I can spend my refund check from AT&T in the amount of .40 (40 cents) Truth with my hand up. 40 cents.

Waiting to hear from you.

Grammyof15

This was posted january 20, 2012 regardless of what the set-up says. 10:45pm

"A Word Fitly Spoken"

2012-01-02T14:49:00.001-06:00

I'm sure I've never looked at life this way before. It sounds strange. It shouldn't. However when I heard what she said, I knew it was true for she is a few years older than I and her years have been spent paying attention to her life in sections as she called it.

Her words fell into my listening ears as a Word of Wisdom that only comes when God intends it; such as "a word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in pictures of silver", Proverbs 25:11

I like - no I love - the times when God speaks in an audible voice that sounds much like my friend Ruth. Other times His voice sounds like another friend, or my pastor and occasionally my children. Doesn't God send His Word when we are searching, yet not expecting Him to give an answer in an ~~unorthodox~~ unusual way?

She called just to check on me. We do that every day. Every day we don't find somewhere to go that is. We've frequented Starbucks on occasion. We decided to try and blend in with the college kids!! I'm not sure we were successful, but we sat down among what we considered the college elite, in the lounge area and pretended they weren't there. They had their head in their I-pads, or laptops, or cell phones anyway so our thinking we would shock the patrons by entering the establishments, two "elderly" ladies among the college elite - well... They didn't notice.

Other times we have gone to Wal-Mart which always turns out to be a trip worth telling. And then again, she drops by just to listen to Cricket sing and entertain her. Cricket and I have been known to walk across the street to visit with her awhile. She is my friend. She prays for me, and I for her. Ruth is a servant of the Godly kind. She must be taking care of someone so when I am down, she becomes my mother, a few years older than I am remember? We tell each other our gripes about life. We understand each other. She doesn't love me any less when I am upset with world and those in it, including my children or my husband. I think no less of her when her life and family are out of sorts.

She asked me about the new baby, which I gladly doted in telling her about how beautiful and good he is. We've talked about where we fit in as great grandparents. I've told her about the antics of those little boys I call my Great Grandsons. I love them. I long to have them in my home, spend the night with Papa and me (before they become teenagers and we are out of style) as their parents did a few years ago. I want them to know who I am. I want to be able to make cookies with them, or color Easter eggs. Ruth heard the hurt in my longing voice as I filled her in on my last few days. She didn't interrupt, it was her turn to listen.

She found her place to speak, then she started with the Words of Wisdom.

"You know I've found that my life has taken on a change about every 10-12 years. When I was in my teens, I became Mom to my family as our mother had passed away. In my 20's I was getting an education to be a nurse. In my 30's I was raising my family living in other countries- and working as a nurse while my husband served our country. Then in my 40's I realized life was changing forever as each of my children began leaving home. My husband retired from the Army just as I was adjusting to my children having families of their own. After much prayer from my church friends and me for his salvation, he had become a Christian. After he retired and we moved back to the states, I became a pastor's wife as he took on a new role as minister with me working beside him.

"In my 50's and 60's I was a pastor's wife, grandmother and busy in the community ministering to our people.

"Then Hack died, and I was alone. I continued to be active in the church by teaching a Sunday school class. Active in the women's auxiliary and continuing my life, until I realized another change was taking place.

I had to give up teaching SS and being so active a few years ago, and now I find myself wondering what I am doing here. My grandchildren hardly ever come over - I know they are busy with their life and getting established. I know that. Yet I miss them so much.

"Have you ever felt alone in Church?" She asked almost abruptly.

To which I answered "I have". I know the feeling well. I too was listening with an understanding heart. I was there. I had been where she had been. I had successfully raised my children in my 20's and 30's. I met the Lord Jesus in a new fresh visitation and begin traveling throughout the US and many other countries spreading HOPE in Jesus, when I was in my 40's and into my 50's. I had a purpose. I was somebody. People wanted to hear where the Lord had brought me from, how I had become victorious in my life, they wanted me to speak to their groups, and they wanted to hear me sing.

I never turned down an invitation and my memories are priceless. However I know one can't live on memories alone. Yes I understood what she was saying. I just had no idea others were experiencing the same thing. Where do I fit? Who am I? What am I supposed to do with the rest of my life? I'm alive in Christ and desire to be beneficial in the harvest. However I believe the church of today does not know how to utilize the unused and often untapped strength it has in its elderly.

Even though the Bible admonishes the elder women to be teachers to the young women of the church, there is a gap that cannot be bridged. Our ideas are old fashioned to them I suppose, or is taken as "interference" in a know-how, very enlightened world.

I will quickly add, the Word has not changed. As much as we wish it had, the same principals it took to get our forefathers into heaven have not changed. As much as it is not popular, the truth is still, "I am the way the truth and the Life. No MAN/woman comes to the father except through me..." John 14:6

Praise God for rising up leaders with renewed energy, with a fresh anointing even to lead this new generation into a depth of the spirit they've never known before.

"Oh yes Lord bring more leaders to the forefront. The way is not always clear and we need leaders who are in touch with You and are willing to lead the way in the path you map out.”

I wonder if at some unwritten time in Mary’s story, she ever wondered what her role was. It was she who knew her purpose in her late teen years. It was very clear. In her 20’s and 30’s we accept she was a Mother to growing sons, as well as understand she must have had Grand children to dote over in her 40's. I wonder if somewhere along the way she began wondering “what do I do now?”

Maybe not. Times were different then. People have changed very little, but the era was different. A woman knew her place - she raised her family - took care of the former generation her parents and in-laws were part of, and the cycle went on as her children began their role of taking care of her generation and the cycle continued. So maybe she isn’t the perfect example.

My closest example of today’s Christian elderly plight is my friend Ruth. I see her slowing down almost daily. She is in her 80’s and has lived a rich life, but feeling left out and alone at a time of her life when she should be surrounded by the product of her love and care. I understand.

I’m sure I’ll understand more as I go, for I have just began exploring this question. Who am I? Where is my place? And how do I fit in today’s Harvest? I could sure use another word “fitly spoken…” I cannot accept that the Lord would not still have a place for those who have sacrificially given of themselves to spread the Gospel of Jesus Christ - setting still is not part of their life. To be inactively involved is a new concept to my generation. But show me how. Help me place my piece of the puzzle into the slot where it fits. Comments welcomed.

Grammyof15

The year is winding down.....

2011-12-24T14:48:00.005-06:00

Friends and all who stop by....Greetings.

The year is winding down and I think I am too. There is something about this time of year when I realize just how tired I am. Maybe the gloom of the season after fall and its gorgeous colors have passed. Not sure. We had our family here for Christmas on the 18th (this past weekend). It is always good to have all my kiddo's under the same roof. Only ones missing were my daughter who lives in Sioux City, IA and her family, along with a grand=son=in law from here in LR. One day maybe things will change and I can once again have all my chickens home to roost for a few hours at the same time.

Baby Graydon 12-22-11

Wednesday, the 22nd my 6th great grandson was born. We were not there for his birth, but it was so nice to get to hold him for awhile when we went to the hospital to visit. I think he grabbed a piece of my heart while I held him. Life goes on and now we look toward April when our 7th great grand son will be born. I've decided the Lord is replenishing the World with boys and He started with our family. 5 grandsons, and soon to be 7 great grands. The 4 grand girls in our family are outnumbered. Congratulations to Mommy Bailey, may we all have a long life of enjoying our newest addition. Love you.

So today is less that two days away from Christmas celebration. Dad and I have done very little and enjoyed every minute of it. And....our plans are to do some more of nothing. Remember last year around this time, I was planning my Family Christmas celebration a few days after Christmas and found myself in the ER with Atrial Fibrillation so severe I had to stay. So to make a long story short, Christmas celebration did not happen for me. I eventually got the gifts delivered = some even in late October. So I will always remember 2010 as the year when our Christmas celebration took a back seat, and I do mean baaaaaack seat...... I'm glad however to be living now, for it took a greater portion of this year for me to get better.

This year, as have others, we've had highs and lows. Having surgery and being in ICU for 17 days was definitely a low. I published my first book in May which was a high. We lost a great grand baby at birth in June. A definite low. My Dad died in March at 102, and even though we knew he wouldn't live forever, it was a loss and losses are unequivocally lows. My husband and I have accepted that time for us is changing and we are facing choices that may not be pleasant, but realistically they have to be faced.

The 23rd (yesterday) (it is taking me several days to write this by the way) we had another birthday boy who turned twelve. I remember his first Christmas with us. His mom came home that morning from the hospital, and grabbed hold of the energy to make our celebration. She showed up with an arm load of Clay!!! Affectionately known as Clayboy.

This is Clay with his big brother Chandler. Happy Birthday my Clayboy.

Tonight I am going to Christmas Eve Service with my Friend Ruth. I'm looking forward to it. My husband has to work sad to say. The mail must be delivered, rain shine sleet or snow. Right? It is not a fun job at times like this, but somebody gotta do it.

Merry Christmas to all and to all Happy New Year.

Grammyof15

New Tradition.

2011-11-05T23:05:00.000-05:00

Thanks to Judy, "The Southern Lady Cooks" for the following. Since September I have been very busy making Christmas for my family. Occasionally I feel I should be putting stuff in lay-a-way, but then I remember the price of things and am ready for a better tradition. So with my sewing basket at my feet and plenty of material for my project I am working toward usable items for Christmas.

I have never been a good gift giver. I've always like what I purchased, and thought of the recipient as I bought, but the receiver hasn't always felt the same way. I am very insecure in giving Christmas gifts and for that reason I have dreaded the season more than I want to. I love the festivities, the decorations and especially the music, and I am trying to forget the past, and keep going into the future with a renewed hope and new tradition.

I love the idea of hand making items and I am so determined to do just that. My feeling is a hand made items would be a keep sake for years to come. Anyway - take time to read the following and let me know if you agree. I'd just love to be the recipient of some of these suggestions.

Christmas 2011 -- Birth of a New Tradition

As the holidays approach, the giant Asian factories are kicking into high gear to provide Americans with monstrous piles of cheaply produced goods -- merchandise that has been produced at the expense of American labor. This year will be different. This year Americans will give the gift of genuine concern for other Americans. There is no longer an excuse that, at gift giving time, nothing can be found that is produced by American hands. Yes there is!

It's time to think outside the box, people. Who says a gift needs to fit in a shirt box, wrapped in Chinese produced wrapping paper?

1. Everyone -- yes EVERYONE gets their hair cut. How about gift certificates from your local American hair salon or barber?

2. Gym membership? It's appropriate for all ages who are thinking about some health improvement.

3. Who wouldn't appreciate getting their car detailed? Small, American owned detail shops and car washes would love to sell you a gift certificate or a book of gift certificates.

4.Are you one of those extravagant givers who think nothing of plonking down the Benjamines on a Chinese made flat-screen? Perhaps that grateful gift receiver would like his driveway sealed, or lawn mowed for the summer, or driveway plowed all winter, or games at the local golf course.
5. There are a bazillion owner-run restaurants -- all offering gift certificates. And, if your intended isn't the fancy eatery sort, what about a half dozen breakfasts at the local breakfast joint. Remember, folks this isn't about big National chains -- this is about supporting your home town Americans with their financial lives on the line to keep their doors open.

6. How many people couldn't use an oil change for their car, truck or motorcycle, done at a shop run by the American working guy?

7. Thinking about a heartfelt gift for mom? Mom would LOVE the services of a local cleaning lady for a day.

8.My computer could use a tune-up, and I KNOW I can find some young guy who is struggling to get his repair business up and running.

9 .OK, you were looking for something more personal. Local crafts people spin their own wool and knit them into scarves. They make jewelry, and pottery and beautiful wooden boxes.

10.Plan your holiday outings at local, owner operated restaurants and leave your server a nice tip. And, how about going out to see a play or ballet at your hometown theatre.

11. Musicians need love too, so find a venue showcasing local bands.
Honestly, people, do you REALLY need to buy another ten thousand Chinese lights for the house? When you buy a five dollar string of light, about fifty cents stays in the community. If you have those kinds of bucks to burn, leave the mailman, trash guy or babysitter a nice BIG tip.

12. You see, Christmas is no longer about draining American pockets so that China can build another glittering city. Christmas is now about caring about US, encouraging American small businesses to keep plugging away to follow their dreams. And, when we care about other Americans, we care about our communities, and the benefits come back to us in ways we couldn't imagine.

THIS should be the new American Christmas tradition.

Forward this to everyone on your mailing list -- post it to discussion groups -- throw up a post on Craigslist in the Rants and Raves section in your city -- send it to the editor of your local paper and radio stations, and TV news departments. This is a revolution of caring about each other, and isn't that what Christmas is about?

Oh how I'm glad to pass this on. Now it is your turn.

Grammyof 14

Name them one by one.

2011-11-02T14:26:00.002-05:00

I understand November is a month long time for counting our blessings. Many have started posting their blessings on a daily basis on Facebook, which is good for those of us who follow facebook. It is nice to see the areas of gratefulness we each review and not necessarily in order of priority.

Nov. 1. Grateful for my children who are Christians and serving the Lord where they live.

Nov. 2. Thankful for my husband who has been a good Father and provider for 51 years.

Nov. 3. 30 years ago today, the Lord blessed us with another granddaughter who has brightened our lives and brought much enjoyment. I'm still thankful for her and her family.

Nov. 4. Thankful to live in a country where my choice to be a Christian is not in jeopardy.

Nov. 5. Thankful to have grown up with 5 sisters who have helped mold me and also given me many memories to live on.

Nov. 6. Grateful for parents, who in post depression days, kept us from knowing we were poor. Our needs were met and we never went to bed hungry.
Nov. 7. Thankful for an education those parents insisted we get.
Nov. 8. Thankful for good transportation over the years, provided so that we could load it down on many Sunday's to get people to worship. And again those automobiles/vans/station wagons/ got more than just our little family to conventions and camps.
Nov. 9. Grateful the Lord kept me pure in my teen years when so much was there (as today) to try and test my faith. I may have been a "square" as the term was called then, I was even labeled "a sweet ole fashioned girl" in the School annual my Junior year, a label that is read today when someone views the 52 year old year book. I was not offended then, and today I am still not offended at the label.
Nov. 10. As of today I have 9 grandchildren, 5 great grands with two more on the way. No one told me life could get richer as they began arriving. There is something about the extended family that makes my heart leap with joy to see the seeds of faith planted a long long time ago by my forefathers is still coming alive in my grands and great grands as their parents continue to nurture the faith seed. Surely there will be a continuing circle in Heaven when we all get there.
Nov. 11. I am thankful for my home. The prettiest one on the block (or that is my feeling anyway) It will soon be totally ours, and in the meantime I get to live in a comfortable home, in a trouble free neighborhood, with loving neighbors, and be a friend.
Nov. 12. I am thankful for one neighbor I call Ruth. She is older than I, but we don't know the difference when we are out together. Occasionally we go shopping. Again we may go to a Wheel of Fortune taping, then again you may find us at Starbucks with all the college kids. Thank you Lord for my friend Ruth.
Nov. 13. Oh yes, I can't finish the month without saying "Thank You" to those who brought Cricket into our lives. He is one of the best things that has happened to us these past three years. Never ceases to entertain us and pretty much knows our language. Now I just wish we understood his every time he is begging and we don't know how to come through for him.
Nov. 14. I am thankful for Greg my firstborn who has made us proud with all his accomplishments. We would be proud if he weren't an accomplished Paramedic, Mechanic, Carpenter, Father, Grandfather, Employer, Administrator, Educator, Minister, Teacher, Pastor, member of the Ark. SWAT team, and the list goes on. He and his wife Debbie make a great team of two. His life is an example of what a Christian looks like. Meek and quiet spirit.
Nov. 15. I am thankful for my first daughter, Sandra Arlene who has brought much joy to our lives with her beautiful personality and winning smile. She too is accomplished as a Massage Therapist with her own business, musician, music director, Mother, Wife to Ron, sister, daughter and Christian. At times she was an imp that showed up when it came to pestering her sister and brother and acting innocent. She has been a foster parent to several children, before adopting Katrina and Logan. They are hers in every sense of the word, because the Lord brought them into her life.
Nov. 16, Sara Janean came along when Sandy was 2 1/2 years old. A tiny bundle of joy from day one. Not requiring much from anyone except to be loved, she has excelled in her singing talent (just releasing a Christmas Album this month), she is a wonderful Mother to her two little boys, she privileged to be a stay home mom that substitute teaches at the boys school. She and her husband (Daryl) do Children's ministry at their church, she sings on the praise team, and is a prayer warrior. She keeps a spotless home and even though she is a future farmer's mother, she takes her role as "farmer's assistant" in stride.
Nov. 17. I'm thankful for Tom who was the icing on the cake. From the beginning he knew what he wanted and didn't stop until he got it. He demanded my attention which he got when I figured out what it was he wanted. Tom has worked in the medical field after leaving his stint in the Army. From emptying bed pans, to assisting in Surgery, to becoming a heart surgeons first assistant, he has moved into Organ donations retrieving tissue, hearts, etc. etc. I am told he has such great respect for the dead as he retrieves the donated organs that he is well respected in his field. He is also a devoted father to two boys, and a loving to husband to Stephanie.

Of course, the Lord knew Greg was out numbered and sent him a brother to help even things out. Proud of each of you my dear little ones who grew up when I wasn't looking....

Until the next time when I finished the month. Count your Blessings, try to name them one by one.

Grammyof14

Time...it is a fleeting....

2011-10-29T13:07:00.002-05:00

I'm sure this is not an original statement, but here goes. Where has the month gone? I slept too long or something, the month is over and I hardly remember it happening.

Isn't that the way it is the older we get? I've decided it must be. I sure don't remember feeling this way when I was younger waiting for my future to happen! The days just crawled by and what ever it was I was anticipating tomorrow would bring...well I wonder if it ever happened, or did I forget by the time tomorrow arrived?

Our trip to Miss for the funeral of our Brother=in=law Harvey was a good visit with the Mississippi family. A sorrowful time for sure, but a nice visit. His grandsons (my great nephews) did the eulogy and brought laughter to the crowd a couple times as we remembered Papaw Harvey. It is at times like this we are again reminded how time is passing, and we can't recall it for even a moment.

Baking goodies today for our trunk or treat tomorrow afternoon. The old fashion cake walk is the highlight of the day. Young and old alike loves Harvest festival time.

Happy Fall ya'll, get outside and enjoy the weather.

Grammyof14

Home

2011-10-22T22:29:00.001-05:00

We left Arkansas to attend our Brother-in-law's funeral in Mississippi before coming to Tenn on Wednesday. This is my first trip back since Daddy died and our world no longer has him. One hundred and two years he lived on this land and areas around, but today there are only memories of him walking the fields or working on the land.

I went through the home place a couple times these past few days, looking for mementos of what I wanted to keep. Pieces of he and Mama - something tangible to pass on to my children - I've tried to give them my memories, but realize they are mine and even though they've heard me rehearse them, their retention of my memories will be difficult. On the other hand the ones they made while visiting the farm when it was a big hustle and bustle of life and activities will be their own to hopefully cherish.

I was expecting some feeling to come over me I think, as I walked into the house for the first time since his death. Tho the same order of things is not there, the little house seems to reek with smells and sounds of yesterday's long gone. Should I have taken time to stand still from my busyness, I'm sure I could have heard Daddy whistling or even strumming his guitar and singing. Too, I may have heard the echoes of Mama busy washing dishes or smelled the aroma of cabbage on the stove. Had I sat down for even a moment, I may have even visualized six growing girls at the dining table, each in her own place, with Mama at her spot and Daddy beside her as we ate our Sunday dinner. I may have heard some conversation but mostly we ate with grateful hearts for our bounty. The fried chicken was one from the farm, the bread was from corn grown in our fields, the potatoes was from the fall harvest.

And even more special is walking the short distance from the ole home place to my sisters house a few yards away. The sky is wide open as a western plain. The stars can be seen twinkling - there are no city lights to dim the light of the moon or stars. Tonight there are no clouds to cover the moon that shines down on the land casting eerie shadows from surrounding trees. Cold as it is here in the hills of Tennessee at night, I have the yearn to set out under the stars and just soak in the quiet of the country night, breathing in the purest of air that only comes with this spot of land. What would make sitting outside in the grass a perfect time, would be to share it with those sisters and Mama and Daddy. Like in our days gone by, we gathered after the supper dishes were put away, and sang old hymns for several house to the delight of the neighbors on the next farm who would also set outside on a summer night.

These are memories that are renewed again and again when I come home. Everyone should have a home to come to when the world turns cold, and our friends don't understand. There is solace at home. Home is welcoming. Home is warm even when the heat is off. Home hugs us. Home feeds us and makes us know we are alive in an ever changing world. Home.

Grammyof14

Our 4 legged child.

2011-10-09T22:47:00.000-05:00

I never knew what fun V and I would have with a pet. I've talked about Cricket before, and the personality he has. Every neighbor loves him, and he knows he is adored. He won't leave hubs side until he has gone to work and has to be my pal. Case in point...

My husband makes at least one run a week delivering mail to Harrison, AR. It is an overnight job, so that means I am left to answer the beckon call of our furry child. He tells me when it time to go out for the last time before going to bed. I do so and wait. When he comes back in - he lets me know he wants a treat. I get him a treat. Then he goes through the house picking up his furry toys getting ready to go to bed. That is when I balk - for I don't go to bed at 8:30. I may go to bed at 11:30, so he gets real aggravated at me when I don't comply like "papa" does.

When my husband comes in around 6:00 am, Cricket gets up to greet him. My husband lets him out for his early morning run. Gets him a treat when he comes back in, then he is ready to go back to bed. By now all the lights in the house are on, and remember I didn't get to bed until after 11:00 but the house wakes up when Cricket gets up. We live with him you know!

My husband prepares for bed - I normally get up around 8:am but Cricket refuses to get up until my husband does around 1PM. He won't leave his side until much after noon. I think he is afraid hubs is going to leave him alone again.

I was talking with my neighbor Ruth last evening, and she said, "By the way, I have had a little visitor I don't think you know about".

I felt immediately I knew what/who she was referring to but I waited. "Cricket came to my door and barked, so I let him in."

He greeted her and her son who lives there as well, with hugs and kisses and groans from their hugs. He lay in their lap awhile, they took him to their back yard to let him run, and then told him we were going to miss him, so he needed to go home. They opened the back gate and told him goodbye, and you know the rest of the story. He came home, with us never knowing he had been anywhere visiting. Ask for his treat and acted as normal as usual.

I think it is funny, I hope you do to.

Ruth and her son Richard keep him for us when we have to go out of town and cannot take him. So their home is his home as well. He is the center of attention in either house.

Like I say, we love that little four legged dog, who lets us live with him....

Grammyof14

Wash Day

2011-10-04T13:54:00.001-05:00

If I had time I would allow my mind to wonder back to the 1950's when it was washday for Mom and her brood of girls. I could even visualize going on a cool day like today, and paying no attention to the cool fall air that blew across the creek into the land that was blocked off by the spring branch and the rock creek. Instead of being cold, I can see myself playing in the sunshine that filtered through the trees as we played whatever game on the agenda for the day.

I don't have time. It is getting toward afternoon, and Mama would have been almost through by now, but here I am trying to get in gear to go to the laundromat in town. Not one of my favorite things to do now that the situation has reversed and I am the mother and not the kid that could play while the wash is being done.

My washer is leaking into the laundry room, and when it comes to plumbing problems, my husband and I are so illiterate we have to call for help. It is difficult finding someone who won't take advantage of us, so until I can get a good recommendation from someone, we have turned the water off at the valve and letting the laundry pile up a little. So today I have elected to take the load downtown to the coin laundry machines. I'll take advantage of the huge/large/big/humongous machines and wash my quilts for winter as well.

So that is the way it is this Tuesday - Enjoying my sewing projects and remembering how accomplished I once felt when I finished a project. May feel the same way when the wash is done too.

Grammyof14

Fall Cleaning

2011-09-28T23:36:00.001-05:00

I am almost back to my ole self I think. I have tackled fall cleaning like I had energy to spare, the first room being my office. Mostly the closet, there isn't much I can do with my space which is also a bedroom with a half bed. The closet has held treasures I forgot I had.

I told you I was sewing - or had started back. I've sewn for years, making dresses for the girls. Never had much luck sewing for the boys. My youngest wanted desperately for me to make him something to ear to school - He needed to brag about his Mom's handiwork. However, he never did get anything to wear. I just could not send him to school with a shirt I had made - and I didn't know (at the time) anything else I could have made. Stories have come rushing back these past few days, as I find fabric - galore - unfinished projects - thread of every description and color, needles for machine and hand work - I could easily set someone up with their first emergency sewing/mending box.

I m not sure of the quality of some of the fabric. I picked up a piece in Tegucigalpa, Honduras back in the 80's. I never did decide what I wanted to make with it. It is a lovely piece of cloth. I have several pieces - and some from El Salvador. When I visited Honduras, our talk and prayer retreat was in the "Valley of Angels" camp site in the mountains. We had to supply our own bedding, so our leader being thrifty and thoughtful, had us purchase fabric to cover our bunk beds. On leaving after the retreat was over, we gave the fabric to the pastor's wives who had come for the week end. I learned that most of them sew to make extra money.

It will be interesting to see the strength of the thread as well. Embroidery, sewing machine thread, yarn - again I tell you I feel as though I have discovered a gold mine.

I have several unfinished projects of embroidery. I'm not sure of some of the stitches I need, so will have to get hold of Kathleen or visit the Internet. I'm interested in getting some of the cross stitch pieces as well as the embroidery work finished before the end of the year.

I may have a book signing in Iowa in a few weeks. I will be going to Tennessee in latter October for a book signing at my beloved home town.

Until then I'm enjoying finding treasures and staying busy.

Grammyof14

Walking it off...

2011-09-21T13:12:00.000-05:00

Somewhat out of character for my husband and I to do, but that is the spice of life I'm told. We got dressed yesterday afternoon and went down town to the "county fair" parade. As parades go it was a two hour delight. One thing that sets us apart from many other towns our size, the parade starts on the West side of the railroad tracks that are still used. And true to form, two trains came through after the parade got started, stopping the procession at least 10-15 minutes at a time. Only Conway!!

From fire trucks to the horses who brought up the rear, we saw children, political officials, cheer leaders, beauty queens, high school and UCA college bands. I could listen to the brass marching bands any time of the day, and even when the High School band played God Bless America, I sang to the top of my voice with no one hearing me!! I could have made my debut right there on the corner of Oak and Front Streets, but no one was able to hear me as the band marched by playing this lovely song.

You know? For the first time I recognized what the nutritionists of the world have been saying all along - we have a weight problem in this country. From grade school to college age kids, some could hardly keep up for the extra weight they carried around on their body. Some uniforms hardly fit over the extra pounds of many. I was hoping there would be no one pass out from exhaustion.

What better exercise could the youth be getting outside the marching band and walking with their not so heavy instrument? I'm not a crusader for healthier lunches or snacks in the cafeterias by the way. However, I do wish Parents were more involved in discipline in their children's life. I'm standing at a place of advantage now where I am able to look back and see more clearly than 20 years ago.

My children are grown, I have grandchildren and great grands, so coming from an era of busy active people, I do wonder how I'd have handled obesity in my children. We stayed active, eating wasn't our first priority, it was a necessity for life and a treat when it came to sugar. Just sayin...

Anyway, we have decided to go to the county fair and eat our way through the midway on Thursday. Maybe the walking and the eating will balance out what calories we may eat.

Grammyof14

So Am I

2011-09-16T16:58:00.001-05:00

On a note of interest concerning the county fair in Oklahoma. It is the neatest thing how we meet strangers that bring a boost to one's life. It was an accidental meeting, but one I'm sure I'll never forget.

The goat judging was over. We left the viewer's stands and walked to the arena where all the owners stood around with their animal and having their picture made. Daryl had invited a neighborhood girl, friend of Preston's and she was forever close by to help in anyway she could. At last there came a time when she could show one of Preston's goats and what a happy Child she was. She beamed, and even though she had never shown, she had been very attentive on how it was being done by the others. So for the last showing, Parker took one of his Brother's goats, and their friend took the other and together they walked the arena leading each goat by a neck leash.

I was so glad she won a ribbon and some money. Parker got first place, and some money, but that did not dampen the spirits of their neighbor friend. At the waiting arena, I hugged her, the family did as well (well not the little boys, that would have been uncouth and far from proper). They each basked in their own winnings without jealousy of the other.

I stood a few steps away to be out of reach of the pictures, when an oriental lady (who had also been watching the entire showing) pointed to Preston and remarked, "He has had a smile on his face this whole time. All during the two hour showing, he has not stopped smiling."

Seeing she was talking about my grandson, I joined in with a few stories of my own of how he had looked forward to this day; had prepared for this day; had done everything right to get to this day; etc. etc. She was like a doting grandmother as well. Then the conversation turned personal.

"How long have you been in the US?" I asked.

Standing barely 4 1/2 feet tall, looking much older than I figured she was, her face wrinkled a moment then her smile covered her face as she answered, "About 40 years".

"Really". You do speak with an accent, but your English is good." I mentioned China, but she corrected me that she was from Thailand. She had met her husband during the Viet Nam war and came to America never looking back. She has been back home a few times, still has family there even though she lost her mother a few months back.

"Tell me, what is your name?" I ventured.

"Soami", she said without hesitation, then added.

"I say I am hungry, and you say 'So am I'. Soami. That is my name 'So Am I'.

I understood. A name I would never forget - so easy to say, and such a delightful lady ready to explain with laughter how it is pronounced would keep me from forgetting.

Then she added this story. "I was shopping in Walmart once when someone behind me began calling, 'Me to!!, Me too!' I just kept going and finally the lady caught up with me, and said, 'didn't you hear me calling you?' I told her no - I had heard someone but did not know they were addressing me.

"I asked her what she called me and she said, 'Me too'. No, I said, my name is SOAMI." We had a hilarious laugh and as I introduced her to others who came walking up I had to tell them both stories to her delight.

We learned she lived in the same town as my daughter. Her husband works for the Post Office in Tulsa, so she was a stay home gardener. She was quick to get acquainted with my daughter with the happy little boys and declared they would meet again. And yes, she does cook, her neighbor said she was a fantastic cook - and I'd love to be there when she brings something to a community get-together. For what person from that part of the world isn't a great cook? I know none.

Good to meet you Soami!

Grammyof14

My new sewing project

2011-09-15T17:14:00.000-05:00

Well, Grandma Francis will be well pleased to know I didn't mess up too bad on my first needle point project. It took me a day and a half to finish, so with a little more learning under my hat, it should go a little faster from here on in. It is just adjusting my time for any project that claims my utmost attention, and that stands for supper/meals and cleaning house occasionally.

Janean, Preston and I went to an Auction on Monday at Skiatook. It has been years since I attended one, and had forgot about how enjoyable they can be. Janean was elected to do the bidding. She wasn't fast enough as several things got past her and gone before she could get her number raised for the auctioneer to see. Preston knew what he wanted, had taken the money he was going to spend and had his mother bid for him. He was one thrilled kid to go home with bull horns on a plaque. (could have been cow horns - how would I know?)

Awe well, I came home with a very nice park bench with eagles on either end, plus a bassinet. Getting anything home was the challenge. She had made her father a "razorback" rocking chair for the front porch. She found a used one in great condition, sanded it down, painted it white, placed a red cushion in it, and then ordered the "razorback" decals to place on the top front of the back. How neat is that?! Verlon is so pleased that he and Cricket have found reasons to go sit on the front porch now and watch the traffic go by. I was hoping to find another one at the auction, and there were several, but it was one of those things that got by us before we could blink an eye or raise an arm. Fun times.
One thing I had to remember was "how in the world would I get that home?"

Got home yesterday afternoon. Janean brought me as far as Alma, AR and V. met us there. I think I just may do that again. They are great hostesses. And too, she went on a diet, so it was a good thing I was there to cook - the boys don't need to lose weight!! tee hee.

Grammyof14

Extended Vacation

2011-09-11T22:07:00.001-05:00

I'm still in Oklahoma, and may be here a few days longer. I'm OK with that. Janean and I have spent three full days together - went to see "The Help" on Friday, and then on Saturday we shopped till we dropped. After watching the boys show their animals and winning Blue first place ribbons, and red second place ribbons, and money, she and I went out to lunch then hit the mile long yard sales. We weren't looking for anything inparticular, but we did come away with a few bargains that is not junk to us.

Janean came back home to get me for the 2nd service at church today. Then we went to Luiges for lunch. Daryl's grandmother had a big birthday a few days ago, so we stopped to visit with her before coming home. She is a precious lady who keeps herself busy with needle point. I fell in love with a project she had done, so she loaded me down with the materials to get started anyway. She is a jewel. I'd probably learn a lot of things from her if we lived closer. She doesn't get around very well, her circulation is difficult especially in her feet and legs. But for sure she is loved by everyone.

Grammyof14

Beautiful Day the Lord made.

2011-09-05T18:26:00.000-05:00

Who wants to agree with me concerning the day? I started my day on the deck with a cup of coffee and even though I was about to get a light blanket to cover myself, I decided to just enjoy the cool almost cold breeze that had the trees swaying and the leaves moving. How beautiful the entire day has been. It was easy to stay there and read several chapters of Daniel before even starting breakfast. Cricket enjoyed it as well. Instead of going back inside when he finished his morning run, he lay at my feet and enjoyed the breeze as well.

I did treat myself to some new deck chairs. While I was enjoying my coffee, I felt one of the slats give way in my chair- thus letting me know it was time to do something. In fact I remember getting those chairs 15- or so years ago when National Home Center was going out of business on a labor day week-end, and found my patio table for $25 at Walmart's end of the summer sale. So to calculate their age and how much they have been used - I decided to treat us to new chairs at least. Walmart came through, and even though I am looking for a grill, I guess Im wanting one at a give-a-way price, which isn't going to happen. So i'll try again next year for a new grill. In the mean-time the smoker cooker is serving a partial service for what I cook on a grill.

The county fair's are starting, building up to the big State Fair. I'm wondering if it is now as it once was. Seeing that we never went to a fair when I was growing up, didn't know about them really. I've seen movies about the town/county fair and how the kids looked forward to showing their calf, cow, chicken and such. Going to the cattle barn was not something I'd be interested in back then anyway, but times have changed. And today at 72 I'm excited that I am going to the Washington County Fair in Bartlesville, OK this week-end.

I might not be interested otherwise, but I had two little boys request my presence so I'm packing my bags and making plans to attend. You see, one is showing a couple goats he has raised from babies, and his little brother will be showing a rabbit, and chickens. They are so excited they have started the grooming/training process (whatever that entails). For me, it will bring back memories of another kind - the smells that come with a cattle barn!! I don't think things have changed that much!!! And it just may wake up the urge in me to go to my own county fair - which is very close to my house. Had I thought in time I could have entered some of my jelly/jam/preserves. Ah well, maybe another time.

On another note, on Friday night of the fair, their mother is in a singing contest. I'll let you know if my heart stands up under all the excitement! hehe I don't have a picture - she would probably kill me and tell God I died if I posted a picture without her conscent. Maybe not!!

Grammyof13

Blog Block

2011-08-28T22:58:00.000-05:00

In reading through some of the blogs I follow, I came upon a phrase appropriate for today. Blog Block, or blog burnout or something to that affect. I never thought it would happen to me, I seem always to have something to write about, even if it is of no interest to anyone but me. Maybe that's my problem(?) I enjoy reading the goings on in others life so I find myself needing to work on my dull life. Nothing worth sharing seems to jump out at me.

After my fall a couple weeks ago, I am ready to consult an orthopedic Dr. for my injured knee. The egg went down a little, but not enough - and it sure is sore to the extent I can't find a place for it to rest at night. My front teeth are sore, so I'm going to the Dentist tomorrow to have them looked at. Don't want to have injured the roots and learn to late to do anything about it.

I mentioned my wonderful garden a few months back. You may be interested to know, The squash are still blooming, but I have never been able to get one, uno, nada, nothing off the vines. I did enjoy 2 tomatoes, and two banana peppers, however the green beans ran and twisted themselves all around the poles, but never bloomed once. I hesitate to admit I grew up on the farm where a garden, harvesting that garden, and canning the fruit of the vine was a way of life. So I do not know what (if anything) I did wrong.

I feel better knowing others in the neighborhood finally gave up and pulled their vines/plants up - thus giving up. I guess that should be my next step. I sure hate throwing in the towel of surrender without knowing what went wrong. I'm doomed to repeat it next year.

Anyway, have a good week and be blessed.

Grammyof14

Book Signing

2011-08-23T14:41:00.003-05:00

At last I started my book tour with a book signing in Mississippi, our home church. Not having anything to compare it with, I will declare it a success. Success in that I did sell quiet a few books, but more importantly I got to visit with old and new friends. The young pastor, whom I've never met, had me to speak for him on Sunday morning. I don't do much public speaking anymore, but I was comfortable enough and did my best.

My dear long time friend Mary Green spearheaded the day for me and the success is largely due to her hard work in getting the word out.

Also as there was no one locally who could go with me, I drove through Memphis and picked up another long time friend to go with me. Ramelle Baker and I go back to the mid 1960s and even though we hardly see each other anymore, it has not lessened our friendship. It was one of the greatest/best decisions I have made in a long time. It was God's intention that she go with me. And that is GOOD!

Last week on Tuesday, I was on my way to my cardiologist for a six months checkup, when I arrived at the building, walked inside the double doors and fell flat on my fact. You read that right. There was a 5x7 rubber mat with carpet inlaid on top, that was curled up slightly and my right foot went under the rug. It was the fastest fall I have ever had - my nose has a hairline fracture, it left a gash on my nose, my sun glasses were jambed into my eyes, my mouth is black (my would be smile!!) and my front teeth are sore.

I wanted to back out going for the book signing, but each day I looked a little better and was able to cover up the red eyes and swollen cheeks and nose with make up. However the upper lip that lay over my lower lip was impossible to hide. It was as black as a young man's mustache and make up only served to make it shine more black it seemed. I decided to make a joke out of it being spousal abuse, but knew these people know my husband and because of his gentle spirit they would know immediately it was a lie - so I just told them the truth. There were sighs of sympathy but understanding. I didn't have to go into a beauty contest so I felt better~~~!!!

My knees were another story. I had knots the size of an extra large egg on both knees that are still very sore and I had to be helped on and off the platform. My walking very far at a time is over until I can get therapy, so that is my tale of woe. I think tales of woe are what I have lately for my blogs. Bear with me things will get better in my world. By the way, my knees are turning purple black. Ugg.

I am looking forward to a book signing in Tennessee in early October, and one at the Maumelle library soon. God is good.

Grammyof14

Maxine's Sister

2011-08-12T17:35:00.001-05:00

While flipping channels this week, I came across one of those realism TV makeover shows. Mind you it is not my forte, but the woman who needed the makeover had her feet in concrete (so to speak) and wasn't budging on her choice for clothes, so it didn't take long to get hooked. I wondered how they were going to redeem this one.

She was a 30ish mother dressing like a stripper on vacation who didn't pack anything but her working clothes. Like me she did not have the shape or figure for her choice of clothing, and the shows staff had letters from her children begging her to dress like other mothers. "We are ashamed for our friends to meet you", they cried in protest. I think I'm pretty descriptive, but this time I fall short for words that would give you the picture of what I was observing.

I got interrupted and did not see the end of the show, and I don't remember what station I fell on, so I will never know who won!

HOWEVER, I went window shopping yesterday after I finished Cardiac Rehab for the week. Getting myself ready for a few book signings, I decided I would feel great about myself with a new outfit. Goodness knows I haven't shopped for myself in so long - well I will take that back and say I have shopped at consignment shops and have kept myself in some pretty clothes.

Nevertheless, I decided it was time for something new - out and out!

NOW, here is the problem. I should not have watched the makeover show. No, I don’t look anything like the “model”, but I’m beginning to wonder if I don’t look a tad like Maxine and a little outdated.

Everywhere I went there were plenty clothes in my size - however someone forgot to design dresses for the “fashionable elderly” (as I like to refer to myself). I was utterly shocked at the styles I observed in dress shops I once frequented. May I repeat, “Someone forgot about the fashionable elderly women who are a far cry from a floozy”. OK I said it. You read that right. I was beginning to act like the 30ish mother mentioned above. “I wouldn’t be caught dead in that outfit” I managed to keep my mouth shut and think it in my head!!

I left each store, entered another, and finally gave up and came home. It was then I realized I needed a friend indeed who would help me look like a fashionable elderly lady I think I am; for evidently I can’t lay claim to that as I am not in style with the styles. Better still, come with me to my closet, and let’s go through the years of clothes collection I have and determine what needs to go to Goodwill or the Salvation Army. Oh how I dread starting all over.

If the change gets too difficult, I just may accept I look like Maxine’s sister and let it go at that. In the meantime too, I’ll keep looking - hoping the next store has a buyer that is in her late 60’s or early 70’s who knows how to dress elderly women who still want to be fashionable.

Grammyof14

The little things can bring smiles.

2011-08-10T16:07:00.002-05:00

It doesn't take much to entertain me these days. It is the little things that bring me laughter that probably no one else would notice but me. And to add to that, it would probably not be humorous to anyone else but me either.

After Cardiac Rehab, which is a three day a week ritual, I stopped by Walgreen's. They always have something I need, like Maxwell Coffee on sale this week, (which they were out of, of course). No matter, I did find things I wasn't looking for but found I couldn't live without so my trip was not wasted. One was a cooling mat to sleep on. Oh my I can hardly wait to go to bed. I hope it works like the box said it would. It was marked down 75% off, so I think I'll get that much use out of it.

I still have this malady of itching when my body gets warm. Legs, feet, back or arms, so occasionally I get up during the night to bathe in cold water to cool my skin and hopefully dull the irritation. I'll keep you posted as to whether or not my purchase is a dud or a God send miracle.

That was not my humorous moment however. As they are re-arranging everything in the store, making it "better for the customers to find things" I was told. I had to add "there are still a few folks like me who don't like change," to which he smiled and agreed it was not setting well with him either. My theory is if I go to a "rummage" sale, than I go expecting to rummage - where otherwise I go with the intention of going to the counter that holds my item, retrieve it and move on out of the store.

So having to walk down/up each isle to see what was where, I saw a young man who appeared to be every bit of 13-14. This day and time with me, everyone is young and he could very well have been 20, but his appearance (meaning his dress, his hair style, his choice of ear-ring) made me think he was in his early teens. I really can't tell you why it struck my funny bone that he was opening bottles of men's cologne and after shave and taking a big whiff - but it did. I could visualize him thinking of a big date - or knocking the girls off their feet at school - or trying to feel grown up. Nothing wrong with any of those things, but he was so intent on finding the right bottle of stuff, it struck me funny.

Like I say, it doesn't take much to make my day. Loving kids like I do, I should have stopped and offered a grandmothers opinion - but that would have really gone over like a lead baloon. You see, I know my limits - I saw him later with a women I figured was his mother. I forgot to see if he had truly come up with a fragrance that fitted him. He may have just been killing time while his mother looked for bargains.

Did I ever confess to you - I am a people watcher? I love to come up with rediculous stories about people I see - sizing them up - making up a town for them, a make believe family and profession. I laugh at my self too -

Grammyof14

Burr Under My Saddle #6

2011-08-06T22:48:00.001-05:00

Boy do I have a burr under my saddle, and you my friend have come to my rescue as you take time to read my aggravations. You will notice they are few and far between, but occasionally I can get upset enough to spout off and get a few things off my chest, before I go reporting someone to the Attorney General, or whatever legislative body I need to report them to.

Case in point. Today is the first (that I know of) for Arkansas to have a tax free day of shopping which will last until Sunday night at midnight. I don't know of any school supply or anything else on the list I need to rush out and purchase. To stress a point, I know when the tax free day starts and when it ends.

V and I got out late yesterday afternoon to make a Walmart run. I had about seven dollars worth of coupons, and since they were substantial enough that not even Kroger would double them, I decided that Walmart would be the best place to take advantage of my coupons.

We window shopped, and discussed items we may need the next time we go out, we walked the length of the store, got our items and went to the check out. My total was $92 before coupons. She scanned the coupons and my bill came up to $97. something wrong with this picture. I walked a few steps away to allow the one behind me to proceed with her basket full, to examine my receipt. The tax had superseded my coupons, and the state tax she charged was 8.50%.

That is a far cry from the 1.5% the government website says they should charge. I went from there to Kroger's and the total tax of a $72. bill was 2.07, which included state, local, and city.

After getting home and fuming some more, gearing up to call the Dept. of F&A, it dawned on me that what I bought at Walmart was not all edible! DUH. It was shampoo, toothpaste, and very few items would have been groceries wherever I bought them. However I saw no break even on those items. I still wonder how if the scanners are coded to recognize the items I did purchase that were considered groceries.

I still have my receipt. When I think I've got energy enough to stand my ground, I may go after the manager of Walmart. I wonder now just how many others have not changed their tactics of charging State tax on groceries. That amounts to a few dollars each time.

I did not take advantage of the tax free day today. I ran out of money yesterday at Walmart!!

Grammyof14

Have I lost my song?

2011-08-01T16:07:00.001-05:00

After making a difficult decision this week, I've had to come to terms with a few things. I really don't feel up to par as I want to feel since January. I will admit there are days when I feel I can conquer the world, but it is usually short lived. I'm blaming the weather mostly; however I've also done some soul searching.

I didn't want to get here, and maybe "here" is not a place where I'll stop to stay. I almost feel I am becoming a recluse of sorts. Home is comfortable. I am safe here. The world is outside my door, and I don't have to answer unless the world comes calling. And it is my choice as to walking out that door is what I really want to do or not.

My insides wanted to scream and say no, to the vacation last month. "I don't want to take a long trip away from home." my emotions yelled. I'm so glad I did not say anything out loud and went on the much needed, much appreciated vacation after all. At one time I was afraid my husband would not get to go (for having to work) but when he learned he could get off the two weeks, the decision to take the trip was easier.

After going to the hospital during the 4th of July Holiday and being lost in communication, it has not made it easier to think about being away from home where my Doctors are across state lines and no one knows my history in a new situation.

"They" say I haven't completely healed as yet. Maybe that is true. There are days when my chest hurts as I breathe. There are nights when I lay down and my heart is racing and it is in an irregular pattern if only for an hour after laying down. There is only so much resting one can do, and as a rule after resting my heart settles down and all is well again.

I was told once a long time ago, "Don't ever lose your song!" He went on to say, "you have a song in your heart that blesses others, and it must never die or get lost to you."

I thought of that last night when I was doing too much thinking over the decision I had made not to take a trip to Tenn to visit with my Sisters. I wasn't sure I had made the right decision, and I was tearfully emotional about it.

Flipping channels as I do sometimes trying to find something to pay attention to, I stopped on VTN and watched the "Pensacola Christian College" program. From contemporary music to the old hymns special singers and then the choir sang the songs. I knew what they were singing, and found an alto part and began singing. It felt good to sing in harmony with other Christians who were singing with exuberance and Christian joy.

They finished that one, and started another equally as familiar. It took me several moments to realize I even had help from the chorus that was ringing out in my living room. Cricket (My 4 legged Pomeranian partner) was singing with me. The more I lifted my voice and sang, the more he lifted his head into the air with his howling song coming from his inner most being~~~ and we were doing our best to help the TV choir out!

Believe me I could not help but laugh, and now I'm not sure whether the singing was what lifted my spirits from the dumps to the rafters, or was it my helper?

Seriously though, we cannot afford to lose our song. Psalms 137 refers to the story of the Israelites in Babylon during the captivity. After years of depression they quit singing. Their merriment was long past and there was nothing to sing about.

Psa 137:1 There we sat down and cried—by the rivers of Babylon—as we remembered Zion.

Psa 137:2 On the willows there we hung our harps,

Psa 137:3 for it was there that our captors asked us for songs and our torturers demanded joy from us, "Sing us one of the songs about Zion!"

Psa 137:4 How are we to sing the song of the LORD on foreign soil?

Occasionally we find ourselves on foreign soil where everything is unfamiliar. My unfamiliar soil is my inept ability to make decisions to do things I would ordinarily do without hesitation. Where is the bondage for me? What has happened to my song? Why have I hung my harp on a willow (in my case - my piano sits silent) How long have I been in this strange land of indecision? And why cannot I sing the songs of the Lord?

One thing for sure, if I truly have been born with a song, it will return. I’m expecting things to change. I may get the piano tuned so Cricket and I can get more practice.

Grammyof14

Time Goes on.

2011-07-24T23:28:00.003-05:00

Another week is beginning. I don't like it that time seems to be going so fast I can't keep up. By the time I get turned around good each morning, it is time to end the day it seems. I didn't know this was going to happen as we get older. Or is this something I'm dealing with? I have so many projects on my do-do list but instead of getting shorter - the list seems to get longer.

I didn't rest well last night. I have those nights occasionally when walking the floor seems to be the norm. I never remember experiencing this before my surgery in January. - And really it doesn't happen very often now, but when it does I sure pray for mornings. I did treat myself to a looong nap today and I feel better.

We did have a wonderful vacation last week with Janean, Daryl and boys. It was good to just ride, sing, visit, watch DVD's and even read. Daryl wanted me to read my book to him while he drove. So I was obliged to do so.

AlsoI am working on the "Whippoorwill's Song" and had to read several chapters of that. The Whippoorwill's Song is the story of life on the farm during the 40's and 50's. It will be a bit of history of that era and beyond. Centered around my Father and his story from the early 1900's and 102 years later.

Tid bit from 2nd chapter. "I am not sure why I am dedicated with such passion to writing our story, which will ultimately be a story of the man I call Daddy and my relationship with that man. A man I have learned to love and respect over the years, even if knowing him would be much better. I have my memories, and his memories, which he has shared with us. As I write, I am 70 years old, and am at a vantage point in my own life that surely I can be objective in my observations. Each of us is a product of many people who have had influence into molding and shaping our lives. Beginning with parents, and grandparents we are many people combined into one person. So it is with that in mind, I will attempt to show you the man, the husband, the father, the brother and neighbor; I will endeavor to stand outside myself and see him as others saw him."

I am writing for the sake of recording a time in history that is fast fading into the archives of time. There may be no reason for anyone else to ever recall those days, yet without records stories have a way of being embellished and distorted unless someone decides to tell it like it was.

We each have a story, and I believe any story is worth telling and recording for posterity sake.

Grammyof14

Vacation Over!

2011-07-20T22:36:00.000-05:00

We are home and when I look at the work I've got stacked up to do before the end of the month, I think I want to turn around and go back to vacationing again. The Water on the Atlantic was beautiful with high waves and even though there were many people each day we went to the beach, we found a place to pitch our tent and enjoy the breeze that came off the ocean while we watched the little boys have the time of their life. They never did want to come out of the water at the close of the day.

We spent two days in Virginia Beach before going on to Ruston, VA which was only a short distance from Washington DC. I don't like toll roads, but before heading into any direction when we got there we paid a toll fee going to DC and returning. Two in fact. My blood started to boil each time I saw a foreigner manning the toll booth. It seemed everywhere we went it was like being in another country. I could hardly recognize the dialect and language. From Mt. Vernon to any of the monuments, they were every where. Does America just not want jobs, or do these people work for less than minimum wage and sleep on site?

You may see a side of me you haven't seen before, but I am seeing America as I've always known it to be fast passing into yesterday, and I am uncomfortable.

I just finished reading a book by an Indian lady who came to America in the 1980's. She talked her husband into quitting his prestigious job and move with her and their 7 children to California, where she hoped to teach school with the credentials she had received in India. She had budgeted her money so that each day the family would have food; the housing she could afford was far below their standard, but they were in America and all was well. Her husband became disgruntled due to not finding work like he had back home and after almost a year he returned to his beloved homeland. She stubbornly stayed and kept working, yet going to school so she could have a teaching degree from California.

She talked about her lack of food, or lack of variety. Someone told her about the California program called the Medi-Cal and the food stamp program. She immediately signed up, was accepted and her next step was to drop the BCBS health insurance she had been paying because the free programs were better on her financially. So then when the government taking care of her and the family, she went to school on government money, saved her money to take trips home in the summer. Again I was bothered by the truth of the book and how she took advantage of programs she had not worked for nor contributed to. She and her husband never did get back together, she raised her children by her self while she worked several jobs putting away money and buying bigger homes.

This may not be every case, but her book is non fiction, and I am a firm believer that what she said has not been embellished. It is no wonder that many states are in financial trouble, with teachers being laid off. Something has got to give. We didn't stay long enough to get an audience with the President, but we at least found out a few things that opened our eyes.

Grammyof14

Still experiencing "firsts"

2011-07-08T14:58:00.000-05:00

It isn't often at my age I can say I did something for the first time in my life. I don't lean toward the dangerous things - or set out to do something for the first time just to say I have. However, this has been one of those weeks I'll remember for a long time though, for several reasons.

We are preparing to go on vacation Sunday (the 10th) for about eight days. This time last week I was beginning to wonder if anyone would let me go - my heart started acting up again, racing and irregular so I wound up in the hospital for a few days. My husband says I have a knack of going to the Hospital on Holidays when there are no doctors to be found. Wasn't planned; one would assume each Doctor would leave someone in charge of their patients (who just might have a problem) while they are in Tahiti or wherever it is they disappear to.

Anyway for two whole days, "no one" in my Doctor's clinic of Cardiologist, knew where I was - didn't matter if I was in the Hospital, at home or in the Bahamas on the beach. That is all I'll venture to add, as my blood pressure gets up when I start thinking about being dropped off the map, even radar for 48 hours. The nurses and staff were very understanding and helpful, however their hands were tied - they had no one to release me to go home!!! (I stayed 4 days, so it was only the last two that got my goat. Talk about feeling rejected!!)

Awe - well. I visited my primary care physician today to make sure everything was OK so I could continue my planned vacation. This is my story: Taking lasics (fluid pills) on a daily basis doesn't give me much of a warning when I have to go to the bathroom. The Doctor was looking over my mile high chart, and talking to me about certain meds, when I got so uncomfortable I said, "Please forgive me, but I have to go to the bathroom."

I didn't wait for an answer, I just got up from my chair and ran out the door.

Feeling better, I washed my hands and walked back into the exam room. "I'm sorry," I said, "I've never had that happen before - running out on a Doctor that is." He shot me a smile, and assured me he had stayed busy looking over my chart.

Like I say, that was a first, but he and I have the relationship that he always expects the unexpected from me. I also told him when he came into the room, "I don't think I've ever said this to you before now, but listen closely and take notes. You must not move away, die, retire, or whatever until you see me through this ole age thing. Do you understand?"

He assured me he loves his job and doesn't plan to retire. Dying though, he doesn't plan to, is out of his hands so as far as he was concerned he and I will be together for a long time.

Doris/grammyof14

Sun and Sand

2011-06-27T19:54:00.000-05:00

The month of June is almost gone. I'm not ready for Christmas, and it seems when July is ushered in the next time I look up it is December. It is no secret the Holidays and I don't always mesh. I told you about having Christmas planned for the 31st of December in 2010 (after my children and their in laws/families would have theirs behind them), well mine never happened. I still have Christmas boxes that have not been delivered to two families. Not to worry, I'll try something different this year. My greatest joy is to have my children and their children spend a full day with me, make me laugh, reminisce and even sing carols. One tradition is we always play the piano. I've taught each son and daughter, now we started on each grand child several years ago to play a piano duet with me. We look forward to showing everyone we haven't forgot.

OH, but it is not yet Christmas. It is vacation time. In a couple weeks we will head east toward the coast and some sun and sand. Yes we could go to the gulf coast - it would be nearer, however our ultimate point is to spend a few days in historic Washington DC, stopping by my Sister's home in Crossville, Tenn. It is seldom we go that direction to visit with her and her husband who have retired in the mountains of Crossville, so we are glad for the opportunity to rest a few hours at her house enjoying her hospitality and beautiful dynasty.

My two daughters and their families visited me this past week. They worked in the church camping program and when it was over they came by here for a few days. It is always a delight to have both of them here at the same time. We eat all the groceries and snacks, cook anything we can find, use our cloth napkins and paper plates!!! We still have dishes to wash, and we also fill the pantry and freezer up again and we never go hungry. We took time to go to the Clinton Presidential Library. Being my first presidential library to visit, I have nothing to base it on as far as good or bad or in between. As most museums there was a lot of listening and reading. In my case I was answering questions to some inquisitive grandchildren who came on the scene too late to know who in the world he was!!! I think I was adequate in my replies, as I was there - living in those years when he was Governor and president. Helped elect him a few times.

My husband was more interested in the Elvis display. My husband and Elvis were born and raised in Tupelo, Mississippi until Elvis moved to Memphis in his teens. In fact my husband can lay claim to being a relative of Elvis - a 4th cousin even. It doesn't get him anywhere to lay hold of that claim, but it makes for an interesting conversation to those who still love Elvis. My husband remembers the time Elvis and some of his friends were trying to get into the County Fair without paying. After getting caught and sent on their way, Elvis was known to have said, "One day you will pay me to come to this fair." To which his prophecy came true several years later.

My husband's father and Elvis' father worked together at LP McCarty Produce Company, driving a delivery truck to the stores. One Elvis' father came to my husband's house to pick up the truck which his father had drove home that day.

Anyway, my son-in-law (the one who was here at least) went back to Oklahoma with all four of the grands and left my two daughters here to visit awhile longer. It was good to have a slumber party on Saturday night. We were too exhausted to do much but put on our PJ's and watch TV. But at least we were together. We went to church yesterday morning before they headed west toward Oklahoma.

One last word, all four of my children were under the same church roof with me yesterday. Oh my how my heart rejoiced to see them participate in worship. They sang a special which is always music to my ears. My firstborn (our pastor) brought the message which was a blessing to my heart. I am a blessed lady tonight as I write this. I know that. We hope and plan for a day when we will live closer and can do this more often. I miss them. I miss not being with each of the four. I rejoice in their success as men and women, fathers and mothers training the next generation about Jesus. I just wish the days had not gone so fast when I had them all around me and in their own bed. I'm sure it is a blessing the Lord doesn't allow us to go back into the past. I just may have a well worn path to....

Grammyof14

Oh the services available to folks like me

2011-06-21T13:54:00.003-05:00

I've admitted before just how far behind I am on computer technology, so it will not come as a surprise to you that I am just now learning of online backup. My trusted former Governor Mike Huckabee, talks about the one he uses on his radio tid-bits of news, but I've not checked into it.

Well it may be time. As of now I have so many files I need to guard with a good back-up. Most if not all are very important and I'd hate to lose any of them; From my years of blogging, to letter writing, story writing, Bible studies, book chapters yet unpublished, or down to "Moms Meds" list. I've had to start all over a few times when my computer crashed, and did not salvage everything. Well, I'm too far in now to allow that to happen again.

I'd like to hear from any of you who have tried remote online backup. I did find the following site, http://www.remoteonlinebackup.net/ that would serve us well. In that - they have taken the guess work out of choosing, by listing many online backup services and the amount they charge per month, along with the GB each one can get for their buck.

As I stated before with not knowing much about remote online backup I was pleasantly surprised at the user friendly site I found. After choosing - say - Carbonite, I was able to go to their site for information from Carbonite's point of view as an online backup service.

"Online backup services are a great way to safely and securely backup files, pictures, and other valuable information on your computer. When signing up with a service, all the files you select are stored on a remote server, typically encrypted for safety. Because your files are safely stored in another location, if your laptop is stolen or your computer is destroyed in a fire, you can simply download all your files from that remote server onto a new computer. You can set regular intervals for your computer to be backed up so you always have the most recent versions of your files." (taken from http://www.remoteonlinebackup.net/)

Therefore, with knowing what your budget is, your need is/will be, and the list of companies that are out there to offer their backup service, going to this website will give you everything you need at a finger tip. Also an added bonus is they have graded them for you - 1 - 5 stars with 5 stars being top notch.

That is my suggestion to you for this week.
Doris/grammyof13

Time to Declutter!!

2011-06-14T18:03:00.003-05:00

My husband and I cleaned out the Garage a few weeks ago. Oh why do I wait once a year to do the distasteful job of de-cluttering, or better yet why have we not rented a self storage unit close by to house all the things which clutter the garage? I promise I don’t have an answer.

Personally I feel others around the neighborhood should do the same, but who am I to judge them. It would be good to get the car into the garage without having to watch on both sides trying not to swipe something or knock something over when I open the car door. Many people solve that problem by renting extra storage space for items they use only on occasion, but I have not done that yet. Maybe I feel I can't part with the "stuff" now, or is it that I feel I might need in an instant what was put away in the storage unit? I do like having things close at hand, but here is something I've learned.

I don't remember seeing anything like a self-storage unit in the mid 1900 or later. I was curious enough to google and learned this: there is evidence that in ancient China, there were publicly available storage spaces. However they did not appear until the 1960's in the United States. By the early 1990's the demand was more than the supply, causing a rush of developers to get into the business of constructing new facilities. The demand continued even into the next century. Eventually the storage unit business spread throughout the US and is also available in many other countries.

There are storage units for your RV, the boat, the yard equipment, riding lawn mowers, or just to store your garage sale stuff until you get ready for the big sale.

However, another question I'd have would be where to find one suited for my needs? Whether it be RV, boat, etc. etc. I am acquainted with one particular web site: http://www.easystoragesearch.com/. that takes the guess work out of finding a unit in size and location in whatever area you may be looking. Especially if moving across country, or across town when we are not acquainted with a certain area, this website will surely put your mind at ease.

Yes, my garage will need de-cluttering before fall, and I may have to make the same decision as you. Rent some extra storage space. They'll give me a key, I can get into it anytime I need something, and I will also be able to get my car into its space without driving slowly making sure I have left sufficient room on either side so the doors will open with crashing into something.

That is the way it is here at the Thompson's house this week.

Doris/Grammyof13

A cloud hanging over my birthday!

2011-06-09T21:09:00.003-05:00

Today is my birthday. For the most part I think I have heard from everyone that knows me, through a phone call or on face book. I'm glad to still be having birthdays but today there has been a cloud overshadowing any "happy" I've been wished.

My second granddaughter proudly called me about six months ago asking me how many grandchildren I had. My answer was wrong, for she was going to change it. She was so excited that she and her husband were getting to bring their second baby into the world. She is a great mom, and her little boy Axton (who is six now) has brought much sunshine to the whole family's life. There is never a dull moment when she and that little boy are in the same room. Seriously, he as well as she, has brought much laughter and happiness to our home and family for all these years.

She hasn't been well for a few weeks now and many specialists have been consulted to solve the problem. We learned in late April or early May, the Baby would be a Downs baby. She was adjusting to the idea, and held on to each sprig of hope the Doctors offered. She would not abort, that is not our style. Every child is a gift and Sylas (she decided to call her baby boy) would also be a gift for us to love while he was on loan to our family.

Going into extensive testing, including an EKG of the baby's heart, we learned his heart was not developed. Our little Mother on the other hand was Pre clampsic, and her life is in danger. Yesterday she was told, the baby would not live to full term. He was taking on fluids and its heart was not strong enough to pump the fluid off.

Today, her primary OBGYN opted to induce labor to save Mom. She now has toxemia and is not doing well. Tonight she is in the St. Vincent Hospital receiving much needed medications so she can have the baby tomorrow. If he lives through the birthing process it will be a miracle, which we are a family of strong faith and know without a doubt that God does miracles, He is still in the business of doing marvelous miracles. We have accepted a Miracle if that is His way. We have also accepted the alternative - if that is God's way. His ways are so much higher than ours, it is difficult to fathom what His plan might be.

So the cloud that has hung over this day is not only hovering over me, but my children and my grandchildren. We are in this together and want to take each other's pain - but the truth is we are each walking in the only path we know. A path of trust. Trust in our God who knows the beginning and the end. A God that knows when we hurt, and as a Father He will hold us close enough to hear His heart beat when we lay our head on His breast. My mother's heart is hurting for my second granddaughter who has brought me much laughter in my life since God sent her to us. I can't imagine a life without her. She is trying to imagine life without Sylas whom we have come to love even though we've never met him. To use her words, "His story is already written," and I would have to add, "her story is already written." I believe with every fiber of my soul and spirit, that God will allow her to stay with us, giving us an opportunity to minister to her in the days ahead. As for Sylas, I want to hold him. I want to kiss his little face. I really want to see him learning to walk and run and play and even sass his mother(!) while we are all around to protect him!

Tonight I will try to sleep and wait for morning when I will go to the Hospital to be with her father, mother and sisters and her husband Tim who needs us to lean on. And then I will silently pray for God strength for each of us for whatever lays ahead.

Grammyof13

It is about time I did something...

2011-06-04T18:07:00.000-05:00

For the past year I have been breaking into the world of Freelance Writing. It isn’t an easy task, and considering all the steps I’ve taken and still must take I am willing to keep climbing those steps.

Calling myself a writer was a hurdle I overcame several years ago, when I realized “What have I been doing for ? many years but writing?” I have had several articles published in periodicals, and columns published in the newspaper. I have also worked as a secretary where I’ve drafted business letters, collection letters; my work is posted on several websites and blog sites, and just this year my first book was published.

Since early November, I started getting paid for writing blogs. At last I am what I say I am, a published freelance writer.

So what does all that mean? Everyone who has a service or a product to offer to the public needs a website. That includes me. Recently I discovered http://www.easywebsitebuilders.net/

For a place to start building a website, this is one of the best. With domain names to consider, then webhosting, it can be a daunting task for those of us who do little more than blog or Facebook. This site is actually a service for folks like you and I who need answers to our questions pronto. The guess work is taken away so you can easily see who is out there with software to help you get started, as well as what they offer in the way of hosting or purchasing domain names.

There are young people who are graduating from college with degrees in web design, and after it is all said and done, it sounds too expensive and complicated for my pea brain, so finding this site was a blessing to me. Having all the information at eye level gave me the ability to make a choice based on my budget and the ease of the user friendly software in building a wbsite.

Having a website is not enough, if no one knows where to find you.
I hope this helps.

The answer to your writing needs,
Doris Thompson

2011-06-01T13:43:00.000-05:00

After today, I am going to change the format of my blog. Only for June. I'm being paid to do a few blogs for someone else using my site as it has attracted a few visitors over the past 4 years. Until then...

We had planned a trip to Tennessee this memorial week-end but it never transpired. The farm was hit by straight line winds and left some of the property without their porches, and trees. It seems the whole community was living what people from several states have experienced these past few weeks, tornadic winds that has left its mark on homes, land and people. Just not to the same degree.

We stayed put and even though the suitcases are still packed, we enjoyed the week-end at home doing what we do mostly anymore - nothing. My garden is looking great. I really appreciate my son-in-law Daryl and #3 grandson thinking of me and building my garden. I don't remember getting this excited about squash blooms and little squash when I was helping my Mother - yea those many years ago! Recon it was not a choice then like it is now. Even my husband loves checking on it and giving the plants a drink on a daily basis.

Tom, Stephanie, Chandler & Clay

We enjoyed a leisurely afternoon with #2 Son, Tom and family, on Monday. I cherish those times of being together. Families with growing children are stretched so thin, there isn't always a place to stop and get to enjoy family, so this was a real treat we get to enjoy very seldom. Love you guys.

Give me a month and I'll be back. Got to go make some money.

Grammyof13

Friday Musings!

2011-05-20T13:12:00.000-05:00

I think this may be a repeat blog from long ago, even though I did not go back to check. I love blogging, in fact I do it to supplement our income, but there are day’s life happens and blogging takes a back seat.

I can't seem to get it all together since surgery. There are days I think I have and then I get side tracked or have to back track. Anyway first things first.

I am on a regular three days a week Cardiac Rehab routine, and feel I am gaining strength daily, and a weight loss is sure helping the clothes budget and my self-esteem. It is amazing what a few pounds gained or lost can do to a woman. Some people parade around showing their new body. or the beginning there of. While others continue to wear their baggy clothes until the total goal has been reached then they show up with one less person (or so it seems) on their body and boom you have to get adjusted to the new person who is less than they were six months before. A good looking sight to behold, but it would have been nice to rejoice with them along the way at each milestone.

I wonder about the psyche of that. Are we afraid it isn't real? Or that it won't last? Or is there a nagging feeling of "what if I fail"? Either way - to each his own I say. Frankly I love the jubilant praise of "Wow you are looking good. What you doing with yourself?" kind of words. Not that I like center stage mind you, but losing weight is difficult after 30 and I am long past 30 so that makes it twice as difficult.

I've also decided that the diet is only part of the process. What works for you may not work for me. The calorie intake you choose may not be the right one for me. Do you agree that may be the reason there are so many diet programs out there? I have not researched one over the other in popularity, but at that it would not mean to me they are the best. Find something that works and stay with it. Seeing results is the best spirits booster anyway. And…even though I like people to notice results, it is more important to me that I feel better, feel I look better and know I am doing my best. With that approach one can live without the praise if the attitude is right.

Letting my fingers and brain work without effort has brought me to this point in my posting today.

My garden is doing great; can’t wait for those beautiful blooms on the squash plants to become fruit. Or the pole beans to start blooming. We are going to Tenn. to help settle my Dad’s estate over the Memorial Holiday. I was hoping when I return around the first of June that at least my squash will be maturing.

I’m trying to keep up with everyone, so keep writing and remember hopefully by the end of June my book “The Broken Clock - A forgiving journey” will be out in its corrected state. I hate it has taken so long, however I’d rather you had a copy I feel good about than the one that was published without my final consent with errors.

Grammyofsoontobe14

The Merry Merry Month of May.

2011-05-06T18:10:00.000-05:00

May - a month of memories. I graduated from High School on the 16th of May 1958.
Verlon's Mother was born on the 14th - not sure the year
Then there is Mother's Day, My friend Verna's Birthday, My niece Deanna's Birthday, and home coming at our home church in Mississippi.

Yearly on the Sunday after Mother's Day, people gather from everywhere to celebrate homecoming at the country Church where my husband's family attended as well as he and I for many years anyway. The cemetery across the street from the newest church is a testimony to how long the church has been there and the pride of those who give it care. Home coming brings people from all over the US to visit with families who also have someone buried there.

This year we add the day of celebrity when Osama Bin Laden was buried at sea. The year is significant in that it has been almost 10 years since his co-horts carried out his master plan and the US suffered the loss of many lives plus the loss of at least two land marks. God forbid that a Muslim house of worship be built at ground zero.

We moved into this house at the end of April, so I consider May the beginning of our stay here in Conway. A very comfortable home, big enough to enjoy and have room for my kiddo's when they come home for a visit. Great neighbors and a safe neighborhood to boot is celebrated this month.

In a ceremony at the North Little Rock High School, my first born grandson was honored with an achievement award for being in the top 10% of his freshman class. The beauty of that is that he has been home schooled since kindergarten. For his first "real" experience of a school with thousands of students - I can't help but blow the horn of praise for Chandler who has stood against some bullies and come out on the other side a champion. As someone told him, "I can see scholarships being offered to him in a few years".

Another May celebration is Chandler's parents got married on the 19th of May many years ago. Tom is my youngest son, and the second to get married. He and Stephanie have known each other for the greater portion of their life. Last year they celebrated their anniversary by going to Ireland and England. I don't know what is in the works this year, however I have already volunteered to "babysit" the boys. The response I got from Chandler and his brother Clay was a look on their face that told me "I don't need to be baby sit by anyone". I agree. But that doesn't keep me from trying.

My children being born in the 60's made my house full of babies, and in the next decade of the 70's I had teenagers, and I'm sure without knowing the date exactly they all graduated high school in the month of May.

May is special to us, and I have a feeling to you too. Tell me about it. I'd like to know.

Grammyof soon to be 14

Daddy said, "We will be all right."

2011-04-28T22:32:00.003-05:00

With all the storms around this week, it could be a dismal week. And for some who have lost so much in material belongings it has to be. Like hurricanes which we can prepare for, sometimes several days in advance, there is so few minutes to get ready or take cover when a tornado is eminent. We've learned that when those who know weather - warn us to take cover, or when we hear the civil defence sirens telling us one has been spotted, we've learned to take cover. For those with a storm house, they head to it, while the rest of us find a place in the innermost part of the house and take cover. It is just a ritual we've learned must take place on stormy days or nights.

My husband grew up in Tornado alley in Mississippi in the 40's & 50's. I on the other hand, had only heard of them and their devastation, but not having TV to show us the disastrous things a tornado can do, I still did not know how fearful they can be.

We did have what my Dad called electrical storms, and believe me living in a cracker box, clapboard house there were times the wind and lightening could be scary. And we had no where to run.

One of my favorite stories was when we lived in what I refer to as the shanty. A clapboard house of 3 rooms until Daddy added a lean-to room later. It was in the days before electricity in our country side. The lamps were giving their soft glow casting shadows around the room as we came between the small light and the wall. Daddy had a way of forecasting the weather by looking toward the west where our weather usually came from.

The clouds were hanging low before the sun went down and was gaining a color of blackish/green. Daddy would say, "We are gonna have a storm tonight", and sure enough within a couple hours after dark, the skies lighted up with flashes of light as thunder rolled. Wind came in every crack of floor or window. The outside door to the added room, blew open as the wind rushed through the little house. There were five of us girls at that time, with a couple being below 6 years old. Daddy grabbed the little chrome eating table, shoved it against the door as he closed it, ordered us to get on the table to give it weight against the wind. With Daddy and Mamas help, we all held the table in place, the door stayed closed even though we could still see it trying to give to the wind. We, as children will, were whimpering when Daddy kept saying, "Oh everything is gonna be all right. It will pass. It will be over in a little while."

There was something about the way he said it that gave us confidence and we settled down. Daddy said everything would be OK. Daddy said, we would be safe. We were. The next day things were back to normal. We may have had to put buckets under the leaks in the ceiling; we may have had to move our bed out of the way of the leak, but by morning the storm had passed - and we were safe.

I wonder sometimes about my sense of fear. Or lack thereof. I don't seem to have any. I've traveled alone, faced new situations, very few times in my speaking and traveling years was I filled with butterflies. I walked around El Salvador by myself - away from my traveling buddies - not knowing the language - making pictures as I walked - did not have any sense of being close to trouble even though the country was in a civil war during my visit.

I give credit to my Dad who told me everything would be all right, and it was. So when all the major TV stations are a buzz with the tornado activity, I go about my business until I hear it is in my neck of the woods. Then I go find the ~~table and put it against the door.~~ No I find the safest place in the innermost part of my house and hunker down covering myself with pillows. Somehow however, I still hear Daddy's voice say, "It will be all right. It will pass in a little while. We will be OK."

And this time we were. My heart does go out to those who are still picking up the pieces after their loss.

Grammyof13

It is Friday, but Sunday's coming.

2011-04-22T22:46:00.000-05:00

Could I say, this is Friday but Sunday's coming? Well that is how I feel some days, sorta like I think the disciples and followers of Jesus must have felt on that fateful day of the crucifixion. When the earth quaked and darkness came all too soon, it must have been a sad day for those who had not caught onto the message Christ had been giving them. "I will come back. I will rise again. I am willingly giving myself for the sins of the world. I am laying down my life, they are not taking it from me. This was the purpose of my being here on earth as God in human flesh."

Oh Yes, Sunday is coming when it will all make sense. There are some days I think I could have been among the women who went to the tomb early in the morning. The story is vivid and realistic.

On another note, I love days like this when I get that unexpected call from one of my grandchildren. I've written about Clay before when at dark of night around 11:pm he and I walked around the yard of my childhood home, and talked about the stars of Heaven, and how Big our God is. With his inquisitive little mind trying to get into the picture I tried to draw for him of days long gone, I considered it a divine appointment. My precious little boy pulling at my heart strings by asking a few questions, and being interested in the answers. I shall never forget that night, when we forgot the lateness of the hour, or what was on the schedule the next day; Instead we bask in each other company. A little boy asking about his roots and his aging grandmother willing to share the rich history he is truly a part of.

He called me today for no real reason. I had things to do, places to go, but that had to wait. I was on the phone with my boy and we talked for thirty minutes or more about everything and nothing. We talked some about the book he is writing - "Behind enemy lines". I'm impressed at 10 years old how his thought pattern has come together to make a story. I'll let you know how it turns out.

He reminds me of his father. His father is my "baby". Well we could correct that to my youngest. He thinks like his dad, is courteous and kind like his dad. There are days when I don't want to see him grow up, but one pro to his growing up is the fact his dad does call me several times a week so I can just chat with him as well. I'm so glad he feels free to dial my number and just talk about everything and nothing. We've made plans to go into town and take Cricket and his dog Drake to the doggie park next week, then maybe eat Pizza. Who knows at this point what may transpire.

My first two born grandchild also calls me on occasion to just talk. I'll repeat myself here by saying again, I love those calls that just say, "I was just thinking about you". They call me with antics of their little boys who are such a joy. They share their children and we share a laugh. Priceless moments that cannot come too often.

It is getting late, but have been thinking about this week and how blessed I am to be surrounded by my children and their families. Life is at its richest when family time is shared.

Happy Easter to all of you and Blessings abundant.

Grammyof13

Quick Trip

2011-04-15T14:50:00.000-05:00

We took a few days to visit Oklahoma. With my husband working week-ends, we have to grab a few days in the middle of the week when we can. I started Cardiac Therapy last week, so for the next few months, going even in the middle of the week may be out.

After the kids got out of school, we found our way to Atwoods, their local farm supply store. I rather enjoyed going there. It is the farm girl in me that surfaces occasionally. Anyway, our 9 year old Birthday boy had asked for more live stock (!) on his mini farm. He already has two goats, one of which will have babies in a few weeks. He is very attentive to Sheridan's condition, now that she is carrying babies. He was able to annouce to me that her "bag" was getting bigger, and her stomach was growing.

Then on the opposite of the yard there are hens he has grown from baby chicks. Well he wanted more baby chickens for his mini farm. I was impressed at how he tends to and takes care of all his animals, with little help from his Mom and Dad who have encouraged him they belong to him, so it is his responsibility.

We were ahead of the storms that started brewing before we left and hit after we had been on the road a few hours. Of course after mid-night here, the storm reached us. I, for the most part slept through it. Not so for Cricket who is a nervous Nellie when it thunders.

Must get out and see about my vegetable garden. Also for Mother's Day, my daughter bought me a humongous Elephant Ear Bulb. I may have to call in a construction crew to help me dig a hole big enough for it. Believe me it is about 5 inches around, weights at least 4 pounds or more and about 9 inches in length. I will have to make pictures of the ears when they grow to their size which is from 15-17 inches in diameter. One of my favorite plants, since I have so much shade.

I will have to change my name from Grammyof13 in September to Grammyof14. One of my granddaughters is adding another boy to our clan. Making us 10 boys and 4 girls. We may start our own ball team - I'm sure we'd win each competition.

Later,
Grammyof13

Recycled Indeed

2011-04-09T22:42:00.001-05:00

This is a blog that was posted in April 2008. It seems to fit today as well. enjoy.

I did go to my PC today, and the trip was almost a waste of every one's time. He was about to leave the room after writing me a prescription, when I said, "Wait a minute. I've done all the talking, now it is your turn!" He stayed at the entrance of the room where I stopped him before he could leave the room. "Well, the way I see it, you can do either of two things” which left me back where I started!

One good thing that came from the trip is getting to change Doctors for my Thyroid.

Anyway, before coming back home, I went by the Fitness Center to work out. I have been told that we get new energy when we use energy. Somehow, I do not think that worked on me. I peddled a mile, burned almost 100 calories and did strength exercises. I can look myself in the mirror and not be afraid to say, "I am doing my best" to feel better. Now with a little help from ~~my friends~~ - scratch that - my Doctor!

I saw a bulletin at the Fitness Center that got me to thinking. The sign was advertising something to do with a senior program, and the name "recycled teenagers" was used.

I am sure I fall into that category, but that is not something I want to be referred to as being. "Recycled teenagers" indeed. I do not have any problem admitting, I am a senior citizen. I have not been a teenager since 1960, so there is no going back now for recycling or otherwise. I lived a sheltered life during those teen years, but I have no regrets. I was carefree - active - happy - smart - and ready to explore the world. I had the energy to do anything I set my mind to do that was not sinful! I had to draw the line - (rather the line had been drawn long before I turned 20 by my parents who kept us in tow.)

It would be nice to have part of the energy that comes with youth. Jack LaLane may be the only one who has been able to keep his youthful body, but there is no way of holding the aging process back. Go ahead and have botox, face-lifts, liposuction, whatever you have finances to do. Nevertheless, the aging process will still happen.

There are days I feel I could run a foot race with my 12-year-old Grandson Chandler and almost win. However, getting my feet to meet the road one right after the other for very long, would tell me it was all a dream. There are days when I feel I can swing a bat at the softball, and run the entire bases home without stopping at first base to rest. However, if I were challenged to do so, I would realize it was all a dream.

Our mind and memory has a way of playing tricks on us I have decided. In my mind, closed away from reality, there is a girl who will forever be a teenager. She still dreams, she still plans, she still runs through the fields of clover with her dog Jack, she still sings to the Heavens and all the animals that stop to listen. I don't want to recycle her. I want to keep her tucked away in my memory bank so I can recall the days when there were no second thoughts of energy. On the other hand, she did not have to go far to find something to laugh about. One thing about her, she let me bring that laughter with me – even the love for life – the desire to walk in a new plowed field – she helped me pack it up and bring along with me into my senior years.

Sorry, I do not think I want to recycle her. I want her to stay as she is.
Grammyof13

A Forgiving Journey

2011-04-04T12:32:00.002-05:00

For those of you who are not on Facebook to see all the announcements I've made, I had not thought of blogging the same news.

Many of you know I have been working on a book since 2003 and finally finished it in December. It is a non fiction work and tells much about my life - even though I did not start out thinking of an Autobiography.

I am not as happy as I thought I'd be to finally have a book in print - for one reason. While I was in ICU - they (the publisher) decided to go ahead with the process of printing, without my final permission. Therefore there are errors that could overshadow my ability as a writer. The cover is not of my choosing - similar yes - but different from what I sent them as my choice for cover.

That said, "The Broken Clock" (A forgiving Journey) is listed on Amazon.com, and also I have books I will be glad to mail to you. If anyone is interested in a copy, you may e-mail me and we'll talk. Thanks to all who follow my blog. doris102160@juno.com

I have done some gardening these last few days, just in time for the rain last night. I grew up on a farm, but to call myself a gardener would be a stretch for sure. My son-in-law made me two box gardens for Mother's Day so the exercise has been great for me. My flower beds may be secondary this year.
The sound of a fresh onion, or radish with a plate of vegetables makes my mouth water. And I have lost my appetite for most anything since the surgery. Makes for a great weight loss, on the gradual side, but weight loss nevertheless.

Have a good week and keep smiling. God is up to something great.

Grammyof13

Burr under my Saddle #5

2011-03-26T19:26:00.000-05:00

I may not be ready to get back into my joy of blogging just yet, but don't want to get out practice either. My life has been one event after another these past few weeks, and having to pay so much attention to the goings on all I have to write about is what is going on!!

Have you encountered Hospitalists yet? Well in some hospitals the powers that be have gone to having a group of Doctors on staff 24 hours a day, that sees to your medical needs while you are confined to the Hospital. You will probably only see them while you are confined, and at that you may never have the same one during your stay, as there are MANY in their group.

When you are admitted (whether by ER or regular admissions), you will answer at least one question which is "Who is your primary care physician?" Go ahead and give them the correct answer, but we found out lately he is never notified so what difference does it make?

My husband went by ambulance on the 15th day of March to the ER with a raging 102 temperature. He was delirious, did not know where he was, could not finish a sentence, and was in general in la=la land. He was admitted to the care of a hospitalists who immediately started running test to find the source of his fever - i.e. an infection. Blood cultures, X-rays, Spinal tap, blood test of all sorts. On Saturday he was dismissed with a prescription of anti-biotic but was not given a reason or location of what the med was for.

Then Monday this week - he started showing signs of not feeling well. By Thursday I had talked him into going to see his primary care physician, and he put him back into the same hospital (against my will I might add). I brought him home today, (two days later) with another anti-biotic. Still no confirmed reason for his temperature, nor where the infection is coming from (other than "it might be his prostate).

He does seem to be feeling better today, he was dehydrated on Thursday so today after 3 bags of fluids and even another anti-biotic - he is gaining strength.

Now that is all said and out of the way I have made a decision. I don't like Hospitalists. The continuity of care is not there when one has seen a primary care of many years, and yet he has nothing to do with his continued care while in the hospital. It just doesn't make sense. I gathered the hospital staff (nurses and their assistants) are not very fond of them either. So who are the brilliant people who have locked the Doctors out of their halls of healing? True it gives the Doctors a break, in that they aren't on call 24 hours a day. For sure they are never overworked due to being at the hospital with a sick patient and the family for hours. But doesn't it bother a caring physician on occasion to lose sight of one whom he has counseled and advised and Doctored for so long?

Another burr that goes along with this complaint is the fact that 99% of the Doctors who are Hospitalists are from India. #1 I can't understand them. #2 we are from two different worlds I've decided. #3 I find them to be strictly business to the point of callous.

Before I was introduced to the first one my husband saw on Thursday, I started asking questions and complaining about the lack of communication. It was only after I had been on a 15 minute tirade I realized "Oops she is from India. She has a dialect that lets me know we are going to have trouble communicating. And YEP, she must be the Doctor." Couldhave passed for an aid or nurse assistant to me.

I have the open mouth, insert foot problem occasionally. I think I pulled myself out pretty good, but have made the conscious decision that we will make another choice of hospitals for our next emergency.

Life goes on, so maybe I can have better subjects in the future. Until then, bear with me!

Grammyof13

A world without him.

2011-03-21T14:09:00.001-05:00

We arrived home late Saturday evening, exhausted of course. The older I get the more difficult long trips seem to be on this ole body. It was a trip I knew I would have to make one day, but one is never prepared when the time actually comes for the final trip. I say final, in that the day arrived when we actually had a home going for Daddy. Even though he has been at death's door for several weeks, he still had a way of surprising us with his strength and will to live.

He had been in the hospital a week, his kidney's failing, without eating, only sleeping and for sure not talking. When one day during that first week, he woke up and stated, "If a man is going to live, he needs to eat!" No truer words were ever spoken for sure. So food was brought, he ate, talked to whomever would listen and lived another week. He may have eaten one more meal of biscuits and gravy and coffee, but after that his body decided it had taken enough nourishment for his trip and would take no more food. Thus he closed his eyes - they moved him from the hospital back to his room at Signature Care where he lived for about 8 hours then left us around in the early morning hours on March 15.

There has been something different about these last few days busy though they were with visitation, greeting family and friends and sisters comforting sisters, then the funeral. I could not place a description on the feeling of something being different until this morning. Then the words came. A world without Daddy.

You know the story. I have told it numerous times before. He was 102 years plus 5 months old, and there has not been a world without him, since I have been alive these 71 years. Even to the end, he was very aware of his surroundings, and very much alive. His eyesight dim, and his hearing most difficult he knew those with whom he was familiar until a few days before his death. Frail body yet strong in spirit, he left us with a legacy of integrity, honesty, Jesus and loving life. Family was important to him. He longed for June to arrive when his extended family returned to the farm for the "gathering" he referred to call the reunion.

From the church to the grave site of his final resting place, the funeral procession traveled slowly through the well known countryside where he spent his life. Passing pastureland, horses seem to stand at attention as the hearse passed. The burial site is in the middle of a large farm, and a short distance away, cattle grazed and yet stopped long enough to cry "Moo" in a mournful voice. The bagpipes belted out Amazing grace as the casket was brought from the hearse to the grave. Momentarily after a few words were spoken, the bagpipes played again the most fitting song of "Amazing Grace how sweet the sound that saved a wretch like me" and slowly the music faded away as the player walked out of hearing. Then all was quiet, each mourner holding tight to his or her own memories of the man who had known two centuries and many changes in his lifetime, yet lived to see five generations after him.

I may not write much about him any more, yet he was such a story himself, that my fingers may just strike out another one or two paragraphs. You won't have to read those paragraphs, I'm sure they will be my memories that surface and you know how stories go, they somehow take on a new bend or a new meaning or may even be stretched a little, when each one relates the story as they saw it. That is just how story tellers are. That is how history is recorded, from the viewers perspective, and often it takes the view of many to actually get the whole picture of our own history.

Rest in Peace Daddy. We'll see you and Mother again soon. Now I must adjust to a world without you.

Grammyof13

They cross the same bridge

2011-03-06T16:38:00.001-06:00

On a bright note, today is my first grandson's birthday. A great young man really born 15 years ago on this day. We were so proud to finally have a grandson after four granddaughters, I wonder if he'll ever know what a bright spot he became to our life and still making us proud to call him ours. Happy Birthday Chandler.

This has been a somber week as well. On Wednesday we got the shock of all shocks, that a dear friend of ours died at the age of 40. No one was expecting it. For sure not his wife and children, nor his 2 brothers or Mom and Dad. Then there are the rest of us whose life he touched along the way. I hear his laughter. I've heard of his prankster side when he was the Youth pastor of our church several years ago. He was serious, but he was fun loving. Anything about God was serious business, for we live now - preparing for eternity.

My sons took the trip, they'd rather not taken under the circumstances, to be there to celebrate his life. For two hours his life was celebrated as well as two days before while all the mourning hearts came together to be there for his wife and children, and for the church he pastored but had to leave behind to wonder with the rest of us - Why?

What the future holds for us all who have a hole in our heart where he lived, we'll know later. But for now we have another job to do and that is to stand by, walk with and even carry on our prayers those who lost a Father, husband, son, brother and son-in-law, brother-in-law or even uncle.

Then today, I have received word that God is readying a place for my Dad who is 102. He has been tired for awhile and most assuredly ready to go. He admitted several months back that "being 102 isn't all its cracked up to be", which is pretty good sentiments I'd say.

Everyone from his era are gone. Only his children, grandchildren, great and great greats remain along with many nieces and nephews he watched grow. Would he know them should they walk in? Maybe. Maybe not. He has been very alert for years. It is only these past few weeks he started checking out and closed his eyes to us all. Food is no longer good. With very little intake other than through an IV, his Kidney's are failing him and his days are numbered. I can't hold him back with my prayers for God to make him well. I only ask that God keeps him from suffering during his final hours.

I am not as strong as I want to be, but the Doctor's say give them another month for healing. OK I will. In the meantime, I'll do what I can then rest awhile. I'll be fine. I just want to be there for my sisters - we know we are all in this together. We need each other at this time. Whether 40 which seems tragic to me, or 102 which is years beyond what we are promised, these two men have to cross the same way to get to their destination.

Grammyof13

Normalcy!

2011-02-28T23:13:00.000-06:00

Normalcy is looking better everyday. A few - albeit minor adjustments can do wonders for a girl who has been looking for sunshine and springtime. I got my hair cut and feel bed-head is a thing of the past.

During my hospital stay, my upper bridge was lost - so against the hospital policy (or so they said) they did pay to have it to be replaced. Today I have my smile back and this bridge feels like it fits better than the other one did. Being toothless in the front of your smile, doesn't make for good self esteem. Not that I get my self esteem from my appearance, but it sure helps knowing you are being looked at for the sake of conversation, and not for the hole in your smile. Now come on - you may as well agree. I know I am not the only one...

Also I have started the search for an adjustable bed. Very few places carry them I'm learning, and those who do are very proud of them. I do think I have found the right one- and look forward to getting it set up in the next few weeks and actually getting a good nights rest. I think the elevation effect is going to work wonders. It has been difficult to lay flat since surgery.

No we did not feel the earthquake last night at 11pm. I know we were in bed watching the Golden Girls, but we did not feel any effects from it. My neighbor who lives behind me, said her dishes rattled in the cabinet. I do remember experiencing one when we lived in Memphis several years ago that was a 3.9. The news people said the one last night was a 4.7 -

They are as common in our county as they once were in California. The "shale" (oil rigs) have been drilling in the county for about two years, and since they have arrived to harvest the "shale" earthquakes have become the norm - reportedly many many in any given day. So far no one is admitting that the drilling is causing them. Makes me wonder.

I drove myself to church yesterday. It was good to see everyone. It is always like "going home" when I have been out for awhile. I'm just glad to have a church family.

Time to lay myself down. Blessings to all who stop by.

Grammyof13

The Human Spirit

2011-02-24T22:43:00.000-06:00

I can see the end of February. It is still difficult to believe we have entered into another year and 2010 is history. Of course I don't usually start a new year as I did this one, so I feel I have some catching up to do. Or do I?

When is time lost? Is it ever lost? It fades into History, but only to the one who wiles his time away can it be referred to as lost, or maybe a better word is wasted. We once sang a song called, "Wasted years, wasted years Oh how foolish". Instead of looking at these past couple months as wasted, or lost, I will refer to them as a time of healing. When the body has need of healing, then rest and sleep is not a waste. There comes a time when the body and spirit must catch up with each other. And these first two months of 2011 have been filled with nourishing a body that needed healing, and a mind that needed rest. I learned today I am anemic but the Doctor figures that yet again it is related to the trauma the heart and chest have been through.

The human body is amazing. I listened to the story of the young man who had been caught by a boulder while hiking. After 5 days of not being able to free himself, after 127 hours - some of which were filled with hallucinations he decided to live. The way to survive was to cut off his arm just above the wrist. I was brought to deep thought as just what the human spirit will help the human body to endure.

Often the pain in my chest and right side have been so severe, I could only close my eyes and pray for rest. I looked forward to the morning light as the nights seemed to get longer and another hour of restlessness would have been more than I thought I could bear. Trying to keep the body nourished was difficult as well. Knowing I needed to eat, yet nothing tasted good.

I'll call this a journal of sorts. Just musings from a weary grammy. Not asking for sympathy; just venting. It makes me want to say to younger people TAKE CARE OF YOURSELF.

Anyway, the next time you hear from me, I will be in better spirits. I promise.

Grammyof13

2011-02-10T13:23:00.001-06:00

With a cup of hot chocolate and donning my warm robe, I'm watching the snow slowly drift toward the ground. I could get the feeling of being trapped inside my home, but that isn't the emotion I feel. There is six inches of snow on the banister of the deck so most likely there is more on the ground. My husband tells me that Cricket is not liking the snow as it is almost over his back when he goes out to the bathroom. So far we've had no need for a leash, he doesn't want to linger in the out of doors.

Home health hasn't been here in a few days, and only physical therapy on Monday. It is difficult to do the exercises they left for me to do, for what seems like a pinched nerve in my right side and arm. I'm sure it is in the muscle, but something has got to give. So far the heating pad, ice pack and the vibrator have been my best friend, as pain medication doesn't seem to do much. Had X-rays on Tuesday, but the weather has kept my Doctor from getting back to me. Surely if it were something broken, someone would give me a call - until then I sit here nursing a very painful arm and shoulder and pray it too will pass.

Otherwise I am feeling great, with good energy except when I get into a certain position that sends my screaming into every corner of the house. It is then I feel incompacitated.

I appreciate those who think of me and pray. I've decided whatever is going on in my right shoulder/arm area is much worse than the incision and pain of surgery. Again, I have a life to live and when the weather clears I have plans to take advantage of prettier weather. I will not stay down forever, I will not, I will not, I will not, I WILL NOT......

Grammyof13

Day 10 at Home.

2011-01-31T17:44:00.000-06:00

A week and three days have passed since I arrived home to regain strength and recoup my health. As far as I can tell to this point, it is happening on schedule so I'll not give up and throw tantrums yet. I have accepted (as I think I said earlier) that six - eight weeks from surgery I should be good as new. Now when that day comes around the 1st of March I can start questioning if it has not happened.

The quiet has been great - I've been told I don't say "no" often enough. I don't see myself that way however there is much ground to cover before I get old and want to make sure I am covering some ground every day. I am praying I still have productive days ahead and many m o r e....

I may try to go back to bed tonight as I have opted to sleep in the lazy boy for this past week. We'll see what happens.

As of today, Monday, I am receiving Therapy for upper body strength. My foot is swollen so bad (on the left foot where the veins were taken from my leg) until my walking exercises and trying to keep down a blood clot are going against each other. So they've opted for several kinds of therapy. I'm glad my husband is a patient man, he has made a great nurse. And I say to all of it, this too shall pass. My BP had the home health nurses scrambling today. I think they finally got a reading they could live with, or is that the other way around - that I can live with.

Grammyof13

Here I am again.

2011-01-26T23:08:00.000-06:00

Packages that remind me of Christmas are still stacked neatly in the corner of the Living room, waiting. For a magic day, or for Dec 25, 2011 I haven't decided. I've kinda lost the enthusiasm now that it is almost February and there are no Carols being played, or waves and smiles of "Merry Christmas" passing any one's lips. So this is the continuing saga of the Christmas that was delayed. It sure wasn't my plan to delay the day, but there are times I don't have control over much!! And this is one of those times I'm sure I'll be reminded of for a few years yet.

I guess as surgeries go - mine went well. I was beginning to wonder if I were being made to stay until Christmas again. However I settled in and made the choice to roll with the flow, for I likened my situation to swimming/floating in deep water. You understand I don't know how to swim, however I think in my limited information this is the way I'd have felt. On a raft - moving along with the tide - first heading toward shore only to be taken out again. I could do nothing about it, so I just tried to make the best of the situation I was dealt.

December 30, I left home in an Ambulance, and returned home on the 21st day of January also in an ambulance, (thanks to my son who offered the accommodations). With the exception of a three day home period to get my affairs in order, I was on the same floor and with many of the same nurses for all that time.

During my hospital stay, one of my dearest friends from my writing group passed a way after a long illness. He made going to the writing/reading group such a joy as we watched and listened to him become his characters. I'm so glad his book of short stories was published so that we can each have a little reminder of what a genius writer he was.

Grammyof13
PS - Thanks for your prayers, and all who kept up with my progress. I am gaining strength daily, if only in degrees. I've hurt in my right shoulder and back today but I'm sure it is disturbed muscles that will be quieting down soon.

The Christmas that never was!

2011-01-06T17:57:00.000-06:00

You may as well hear about the Christmas that never was!! Yes, you heard me right. Christmas for 2010 did not happen. On Wednesday evening my daughter and her family from Oklahoma were the first to arrive. She was here to help me get ready for the rest of the clan who were coming in on Saturday. My husband had to have a Colonoscopy on Thursday so I got up early to be the designated driver.

We got home around noon or there abouts. I had not felt well in several weeks, but had nothing in particular to lay my "feel bads" on, so I kept trudging on. Finally just walking across the floor from one room to another I could hardly get my breath and one could hear me breathing across the room. So that afternoon I had my son-in-law who is an RN check my heart and he could not count the beats per minute.

Long story short, an ambulance was summoned and I landed in the Ark. Heart Hospital where I stayed until yesterday. I am only home temporarily as I go back on Sunday evening at 6p and surgery is scheduled for 7:30am on Monday morning. It seems I have a leaking valve that is in desperate need of repair. Along with repair or raplace they will do two small bypasses and an oblation to stop the irregular heart beat.

So this will be my last post until I am feeling more like the old me, which they say will have energy to spare in comparison to what I've felt like for several months now.

Thanks for your prayers. Request to be friends with Michelle Stafford and she will keep you updated on facebook. Michelle is my granddaughter who relays the message to my fb friends.

Thanks again for your prayers.

Grammyof13

OH yes, Christmas is still in the wrapping paper = waiting for I know not what or when. This could get interesting. I still have a ham and a turkey in the freezer for Christmas lunch.

No sights or sounds of Christmas!

2010-12-28T16:43:00.000-06:00

I've loved the quiet days of Christmas. My husband and I had the traditional lunch but I took my time preparing it and we ate around 3p which was fine. Old movies on the TV were great and no one rushed me to do anything I wasn't in a hurry to do.

Today is/was a different story. I donned my three layers of clothing to brave the cold and finishing my Christmas Shopping. No one else is in the Christmas Spirit I take it, as there was very little that looked like Christmas in the stores! No matter. I just took advantage of their 50-75% off stuff and came home. There are no discounts on gift certificates, but that is OK too, for by the time I go out one more time I will be through. Now to wrap a few things and bag a few more.

I had picked up a couple things for some of the girls in our family before Christmas, but decided later to get all the girls the same gift I thought it was so nifty. Needless to say Walmart didn't know what I was talking about and I was about to get all forlorn and down, but decided against it. I accidentally came across the same thing at J.C.Penny's so that made my day. I had not planned to stop by there, but I'm glad now that I did. Needless to say as much as I like the little gift, I failed to get myself one. I'll keep that in mind for a later day when I get the hankerin to treat myself for some reason!

It was a little strange seriously. Knowing I was Christmas Shopping, and there were no sights or sounds of Christmas. No music, no brightly lighted trees, no Santa's yelling ho, ho, ho. I found a parking place right up front without having to drive around the parking lot several times waiting for some old soul to move from the handicapped space. It was just strange I tell you.

I made a decision though, while I was shopping and walking and thinking to myself. I said, "Self, you will call Christmas the first of December in 2011 and not have to contend with the un-christmas-spirited people." Myself was well pleased with the decision. We'll see.

Happy New year
Grammyof13

The Send button

2010-12-21T23:34:00.001-06:00

We had Cricket cleaned yesterday and asked for a trim. However when I got him, he had a summer hair cut. When all his hair is cut off, he thinks he is naked! Poor dear. He hides under a pillow on the couch, or a throw or whatever he can get behind or under. I sat down in my lounge chair last night, and he proceeded to get in beside me, and rooted himself down part way behind me and stayed as long as I was there. Then after I got up, he went to bed. Poor dear he warmed up some today since the weather was nicer.

My trio from the Writers group I sing with were guests at the Faulkner County Teachers Association Christmas luncheon today. I stayed to fellowship with them, as I was acquainted with several of them from the writers group. We hardly ever get together to sing, so we have decided to try to meet at least once a month just to enjoy each other's company if we never get an invitation. We usually get invited to the Arts festival and a few Christmas meetings. They both work, so that leaves me - working at my own rat killing stuff.

I am meeting with my first three grand daughters tomorrow for lunch. We just may start a tradition. Don't know why we haven't thought of this sooner. I'm looking forward to having them all to myself for a couple hours.

I started to go out and shop some today, but got busy with my manuscript and have finally got it ready to send. All the i's are dotted and t's crossed, corrections made, and permissions granted. So I'm through with my part as far as I know. I'll keep you posted.

Merry Christmas to you again.

Grammyof13

Hello World!

2010-12-18T14:02:00.001-06:00

I think I have finally woke up this week. For almost a week, I have gone to sleep at the drop of my bottom into a sitting or laying position and have lost almost a week because of it. I don't like the feeling but did what I had to do only to hurry back to my chair or the couch and lay down again. I did go to one of the Doctors in my PC's clinic. He didn't offer much help, but did run some blood work of which I'll hear from the first of the week.

Yesterday I did get my smile back. I had the broken tooth's root pulled along with another one that was broken and then my new bridge was put in shortly there after. After reviewing my BP reading and which was very low and realizing I had been on a down hill slide all week, the Doctor and I decided to go proceed with the plan. Before beginning we realized I wasn't able to breath very well, so the oxygen mask came out. I'm so glad we opted for the oxygen for I made it through just fine and even felt alive and awake for the first time in a week. My calculations are I may not be getting the oxygen I need in the long run. So I'll see what transpires in the next few days.

I'm still not through shopping. I never do much, but I like to get out some during the festivities to do a little. As we are not getting to have Christmas until the 1st, I will have a week after everyone else is taking down the decorations. Did I tell you I am always a day late and a dollar short? It is just me so I don't feel rushed - yet anyway.

From my heart, I truly pray each of you who stop by to read my attempts at blogging throughout the year, from whatever part of this beautiful world of ours you happen to live, and whether you believe the reason we celebrate Christmas or whether you do not celebrate at all - from my heart to yours I wish you a time of happiness and merriment that can only come from the one whose birth we celebrate here in America and many countries through-out the world. Without Jesus, there would be no reason to celebrate life here or what we base our hope on of the afterlife. Merry Christmas from Grammyof13 and Papa.

grammyof13

Blessings

2010-12-11T15:33:00.000-06:00

As weeks go this time of year, this has been a pretty good one. Went to the Dentist on Monday with hopes of getting my tooth repaired, but we decided on a new bridge which I have been wanting and desperately needing. So now with the blessings of my Dentist who is the brother-in-law to my first Granddaughter, I am getting a new upper partial at a cost that is so wonderful, I'm claiming it as a miracle and an answer to prayer. OH~ where else does miracles come from? Good question, I say to myself.

Then another miracle, while shopping at Walmart Thursday. Finding a big portion of my Christmas at such a price I could not pass it up. I may have to change my mind about my distaste for Walmart overall. The crowds weren't so bad, however it was afternoon and before 5pm, so I may have got there in time for the unexpected sale. Do you think I need to camp out at Walmart until Christmas, in case they have more of the unadvertised, unexpected sales? Again, "Good question" I say to myself.

I started decorating the house yesterday. Got started on the living room. It is beginning to look festive, however I have another prayer. I sure need help to go through my house and clean - I am ready to start downsizing - starting with the junk (hasn't always been junk) I thought was great stuff to be kept at the time.
It is such a big job after being here almost 15 years, that a second set of hands would be wonderful.

It doesn't bother me until times like this when I start unloading the storage room and closets for my Christmas decorations and seasonal stuff. I have been so engulfed/engrossed with my manuscript lately, I have had very little time for much of anything else. However after getting into bed at 12:30am this morning, I feel close to being through. Once I have said all I can say, and read it, plus read it again and again for errors, there comes a time to say, "It's done!" and move on. I believe I am nearer to being there than I have been since 2003 when I made my first draft.

I hope I can say I have improved since 2003, when I thought I was a writer. And really compared to now, I may have myself sized up close to correct in my assumption.

My Saturday jobs are waiting for me and time moves much faster than I do. So have a great week-end and see you in God's house tomorrow.

Blessings,
grammyof13

Toothless Smile

2010-12-06T12:35:00.001-06:00

Two of my sons and their families along with one daughter and her family, plus Dad and Me met in Branson for a week-end. Beside the cold it was a great time for our family to enjoy all Branson has to offer. Especially the malls, and all the lights. Amazing how Christmas gets into the heart with all the festivities, carols playing and being sung everywhere we went.

The only down side was the cold weather. Bundled up head, ears, hands and feet helped some, but we were always looking for an in house event to shop or to watch a show. We did see A Christmas Carol which the visual effects were estounding. Very well done production.

My daughter was determined that I was not going to fall (and embarrass) them so she rented me an electric scooter. I almost mowed a few people down, but believe me I wasn't trying. The scooter will only go so fast, and I had it in the lowest gear and still people walked right in front of me with no regards to the fact I was in a motorized machine. Well batterized machine anyway! They pushed their babies and the buggy it was in, right smack dab in front of me - without a "excuse me please" or anything. They hardly saw me and at that only if their perifial vision was working.

Did it have something to do with an elderly person in a "wheel chair"? Or was it the crowd was just that a crowd and in a frenzy to get to somewhere else or to a warmer place? I was exhausted by the end of the day for trying so hard not to run over anyone. As half crippled as I am, I wonder if the crowd would have carried me along had I been walking shoulder to shoulder as everyone seemed to be. Everyone was in a hurry to get somewhere with little regard for the wheelchair bound individuals, albeit motorized or otherwise.

I'll have to admit, I did not feel the pain I inflicted on one who did get caught in the leg with my cart! Blowing the little horn, did no good. It was lost in the roar of the throng of people. I was moving right along at the lowest speed, when suddenly the people in front of me stopped without warning. I apologized but it was not heart felt, as I had been working so hard to avoid that kind of injury. I'm glad no police was involved, or I'd have been ticketed for hitting someone from behind. (hee hee)

Seriously, I wonder if there is something about the crippled or helpless that makes us feel uncomfortable? I'm not sure, but I do think I'll try to be more courteous (in case I haven't been in times past) to those less fortunate than myself.

Then to finish the day, I broke a front tooth off at the root. So my smile will be absent until I can get it repaired. My little grand boys, Parker and Preston had new cameras and wanted to make a picture of me - close up - no less. I asked if they wanted my toothless grin or for me to smile with my mouth closed. They wanted to see me first with the toothless grin - but then quickly changed their mind. He wanted my mouth closed and when I did close my mouth without a smile, he takes his fingers and stretches each sidce of my mouth into a grin - so there you have it - thank you very much. A close up without a toothless smile!

It was so good to be with them, and two of my other boys, Chandler and Clay. Love those boys. Wish I had a picture to share - maybe later.

Got to get ready for the Dentist to inflict pain so I can get my smile back.

Grammyof13

Numbering our days

2010-11-29T22:31:00.001-06:00

I guess it is true that the Early Bird Gets The Worm, or in my case the bargains. I saw them in the paper - the two items I wanted, Yesterday the weather was too dreary to get out in, so I ventured out today only to find out there wasn't any more of the items I so desperately wanted.

And you answer me like this "You should have gone at 4A yesterday morning when they opened." To which I will say, "I can't open my eyes at 4am on any day".

Then you will argue, "Well you didn't want the bargain bad enough then".

And I will admit, "Maybe I didn't after all!"

Forgive me for having a conversation with myself. I don't like shopping any time of the year. I won't sweat over the items, I'll find something equally as good when I venture out again.

We've had a quiet few days, which is what I had planned. Got a lot of work done on my edit and re-write but still have a few loose ends to tie up before I can safely press send...

V. had to work on Wednesday night and didn't make it in until around 10am on Thanksgiving day, so we ate late, We had the usual, just not as much as we'd have had, had we had company. I love having dressing and gravy and turkey left over. Oh yes we are still enjoying a piece of pumpkin pie.

We counted our blessings and then enjoyed our bounty. He was too tired to to much but nap on the couch with Cricket watching him with one eye opened, in case hubs decided to move. Cricket would then think he was awake enough to play ball with him.

I started this on Saturday, and got side tracked. I'm back on track now and the week has started. I had some serious thoughts today that 2010 is almost over. I could say where did the year go, but I'm afraid each year is going to be fleeting when we keep up with the struggles of life which claim our attention. I don't want to take life for granted, like we are going to keep having new years. I want to make each day count. So now it is up to me to decide how to do that.

How do you plan to count your days wisely? Do you think about it? I think the end of December has always been a sobering time for me. I don't do new year resolutions but I do start the year with appreciation and a renewed desire to make something memorable from the time I'm given. One way to look at that is a resolution I guess. Tell me about how you handle the end of the year?

Grammyof13

Happy Thanksgiving

2010-11-22T13:22:00.001-06:00

Following last week's post, I don't remember learning anything new today, however the day is not totally over, just almost the 11th hour.

At church this morning the message was taken from Psalms 103 where David sang his praise. "Bless the Lord Oh my soul, and all that is within me, Bless His Holy name..." and he goes on declaring his praise to all who bother to read.

This being the week of Thanksgiving, naturally it was a very fitting scripture to start the week. Many on facebook have been posting a "praise" or thank you daily. I have not followed suit, but it has been nice to read. I wish it didn't take a special day set aside years ago by a President to cause us to dwell on what our blessings are. I truly wish it didn't take setting around Turkey and all the trimmings with the fmaily for us to think of what we are thankful for.

I love those times though. Especially when the children try to come up with something different than the child across the table. Everyone is thankful for family, until one little guy decides he wants to be different, so he comes up with "thankful for the other kids family" or something to that effect. I do like the one about the little boy who was being punished. He was setting away from the table a little way from the others and was overheard praying, "Thanks for preparing me this meal in the presents of my enemies."

We haven't made plans to eat anywhere this year or with anyone. I did have our Turkey cut in two, so there wouldn't be so much left over, even though I love left over turkey and dressing. My plans are to spend the day writing, as my deadline draws near, while Dad watches the parades and football games. I'll get my cooking done and hide-a-way hopefully to let my fingers to the walking over my keyboard and to think clearly.

We've shared Thanksgiving with my daughter and her inlaws in Oklahoma for several years, and even though I will miss the feast at Edith's house, I will do them the honors of thinking of them as they gather around Edith's spread tables through out the house and listen to the laughter of all the young people playing games in the afternoon. I think it is about time, we all returned the favor to Edith who does the majaority of the cooking, and prepare for her so she can rest. However I'm not sure she is ready to be the guest.

Happy Thanksgiving to everyone to takes time to stop by, and read my attempts at posting.

Grammyof13

Things I'm learning

2010-11-17T12:59:00.003-06:00

Things I'm learning:

There is more to writing a book, than sitting down to write.
There is more to publishing than getting 40,000 words on paper and sending it to an editor.
There is more behind the scene additions that could easily discourage one less determined than myself.
There is always the nagging feeling that no one will want to have a copy after I put my heart on paper.
It like the mother who has just delivered a new baby. We think our baby is beautiful, but there may be others who sees it differently.
Though it has a very slim chance to become a New York best seller, I'm learning that isn't the issue. It is getting a Bible principle into the hands of Christians who are searching for truth that sets them free.
I''m learning that when Daniel came through the lions den unharmed, he still had to go into the den, and even through it, not knowing just what the Lord had in mind.
I'm learning that the three Hebrew children, Shaddrach, Meshach and Abednigo, went into the fiery furnace not knowing what the next day would bring, but went on into the flames knowing their future was in God's hands.
I've accepted that the urgency of my dream which was birthed in me years ago, is going to be brought to fruition and whoever the dream was for, God knows so I'll trudge on.

One never gets too old to learn, do you agree? When we cease to learn, we may as well die for we stop growing as an individual. I hope to have another milestone I can look forward to in this life, in fact I'd like to think there are many more.

Grammyof13

Away from my usual pratter.

2010-11-10T23:28:00.000-06:00

I saw a news clip yesterday on the evening news. It was approximately 4 minutes long but long enough to grab my craw and stick there obstructing my breathing and ability to get beyond it.

The audacity of men who call themselves ministers to get on national TV and cowardly disguise their voice and profile for fear of being recognized. Yet they admitted they no longer believe in the message they are giving their people. I think I'm mad. Yea that's it. I am Mad. Mad that these man could have the nerve to receive their salary from trusting people who look to them for TRUTH. Yet they themselves no longer believe in the message they are "preaching" on Sunday.

The lie they live is more than I can remotely understand with my finite mind. My question is this. Where is the gift of discernment? To discern is to detect with senses other than vision, says Webster's Dictionary.
The Lord Jesus gave the gift to discern between good and evil, and the gift to discern "spirits" to the last days church. Discernment comes when one is a Mature Christian who knows the Bible. One who is intimate with Jesus Christ and His Word can discern when something is not right. So where is the Maturity in these churches where these men are drawing their salary without a hint of love for their people.

Can there be love outside Christ? The kind of love that would live a lie and deceive a congregation of people cannot be called love. It must have a better term than to even be it in the same sentence with Love. For God is Love and He could never deceive.

So where does the cause lay? Who is to blame? By being disguised it is difficult to know just where they were from, but one indicated he was from the Bible belt or the south. I am so flabbergasted I can hardly write, so I'll point you to the ABC News Internet site where I found the following.
Atheist Ministers Struggle With Leading the Faithful
Two Active Ministers Say they no longer Believe in God but No One Knows.

"I am an atheist," says "Jack," a Southern Baptist with more than 20 years in ministry.

"I live out my life as if there is no God," says "Adam," who is part of the pastoral staff of a small evangelical church in the Bible Belt. The two, who asked that their real identities be protected, are pastors who have lost their faith. And these two men, who have built their careers and lives around faith, say they now feel trapped, living a lie.

"I spent the majority of my life believing and pursuing this religious faith, Christianity," Jack said. "And to get to this point in my life, I just don't feel like I believe anymore."
"The more I read the Bible, the more questions I had," Jack said. "The more things didn't make sense to me -- what it said -- and the more things didn't add up."

Jack said that 10 years ago, he started to feel his faith slipping away. He grew bothered by inconsistencies regarding the last days of Jesus' life, what he described as the improbability of stories like "Noah's Ark" and by attitudes expressed in the Bible regarding women and their place in the world.

"Reading the Bible is what led me not to believe in God," he said.

He said it was difficult to continue to work in ministry. "I just look at it as a job and do what I'm supposed to do," he said. "I've done it for years."

"My thinking was that God is big enough to handle any questions that I can come up with," he said but that did not happen.

"I realized that everything I'd been taught to believe was sort of sheltered," Adam said, "and never really looked at secular teaching or other philosophies. ... I thought, 'Oh my gosh. Am I believing the wrong things? Have I spent my entire life and my career promoting something that is not true?'"

He said he feared for his salvation and soul. "In that point where I realized I was losing my faith yet I still feared for my own salvation, I asked God to take my life before I lost my faith," Adam said.

Adam said he now considers himself an "atheistic agnostic." "I don't think we can prove that there is not a God or that there is a God," he said. "I live out my life as if there is no God."

He and Jack said that when speaking to parishioners, they tried to stick to the sections of the Bible that they still believed in -- the parts about being a good person. Both said that they would like to leave their jobs though they can't afford to.

"I want to get out of the position that I'm in as quickly as I can because I try to be a person of integrity and character," Adam said. "With the economy the way it is, with my lack of marketable skills other than a seminary education, it has me in a tough spot."

I pray for these men. Often it takes people hitting rock bottom, and getting to the end of themselves and with no where else to turn, to find God. It is when we stop looking down and find ourselves having to look up that we see HIM.

I pray they do find the God of Love who created them to be His friend and have fellowship with Him. The God that so many people have found in the very Word they doubt to be true. I pray they be led to teachers who are teachers after God's own heart. Men who will help them unlearn and erase the doubts they harbor now. I pray they do the right thing once again, and step down from the pulpit and allow the people to replace him with someone who is in Love with Jesus and His Word. People deserve the truth. It is the truth that will set us free.

It is late, but had to get this gall out of my craw before going to bed. I'm sure I'll feel better after a good nights rest. This is one I'll have to leave at the feet of Jesus.

Grammyof13

Voting

2010-11-05T22:59:00.000-05:00

I wish I was a political blogger. I've watched enough TV today I should be able to repeat anything the news people have said, but after awhile it gets to sounding like, blah, blah, blah. So I'll refrain from any political babble.

I did vote the other day after school. There were a couple others already there, so I was able to walk right in and start the process. I did fine checking the boxes until I got to the amendments where I slowed down. I had not known about the amendments so I wanted to study them carefully, and since there was no one wanting my booth, I took my time. There was a hitch however. Two of the pole workers were discussing something between themselves from across the room from each other.

Now you can imagine there was no low talking or whispering coming from them. But in order to be heard by the other one in the almost empty room, they were the same as yelling to my old ears. I couldn't concentrate on what they were saying, and what I was reading. After starting the third time to read the first one, still not understanding it, I finally spoke up. "Would you please hold it down, I can't concentrate and I'm trying to read these amendments". I had to be louder then they, and by the time I got their attention, you could have heard a pin drop on the sidewalk.

After I chuckled at my own power - I read each of the three amendments, made a choice and moved on. I encouraged the men to proceed after I finished at the booth, and each of them apologized profusely. "Mam, I am so sorry. We weren't supposed to be talking at all".

I enjoy watching the election coverage after the poles close. I liked seeing those I voted for win. I've never voted for a green party candidate before, but there is always a first. When there was no choice I made a choice to go Green!! They didn't win, but...

Anyway, I really hope to see change in positive ways. I don't know how much longer we can hold out without a raise, with the way everything else is rising but the payday. I believe it was my Mother who stated, "It is a great life if you don't weaken", or something like that. Or was it, "You can't get out of this world alive". Either one, she did have a way with words.

Grammyof13

One of those days

2010-11-02T23:03:00.000-05:00

Not a national holiday, however I'm wondering how long it will be before election day will be! Especially the year a President is to be elected.

Oh well, had it been a national holiday, I woulda missed my classes today. Come to think of it, that may not have been a bad thing after all. My first period class is full, if you take into consideration the type school this is = A one day a week Enrichment Academy for home schoolers. Not more than I can handle as a rule, especially when I sit on the couple who have not learned to respect the process. Teacher talking means "I shut up and listen"! That must be terribly difficult for one little girl to wrap her brain around.

She has not learned that "it isn't necessary to have a comment on EVERYTHING." Everything the teachers says, does not merit a comment, unless one is asked for that is. (Which I have learned not to do) Her hand is constantly in the air - occasionally I stop talking/reading and ask what she wants.

"I forgot" she proceeds to say until I go back to the point I left off and then..."Now I remember..."
If she doesn't get to speak out loud in class with a brilliant comment, she proceeds to tell her table mates.

I was ready for lunch today just to take a break and settle down. I was afraid much more of her constant interjections, and hand waving over her head would cause me to start acting out....

After lunch is an older group of 7-12 for speech class. Today I had a new student - until now it has been a joy to teach the class as each of the 10 students are learning and having fun doing do. However my new little lady has been in public school, home school, public school and home school again. She has no learning problems, she is not ADD, Autistic or any other label - she has an attitude problem. She knows everything already!! Can't do much with those who know everything. She will have to learn to "Keep mouth shut while teacher is talking..." as well,

She kept the boys at her table preoccupied with her "cuteness" which was working for her and against them. It was after school when I was straitening the chairs and preparing to leave, when one of the boys who set at her table slipped back into the room to apologize. He apologized for the new girl for she doesn't know the rules he said. "There is no excuse for rudeness," I explained. "When a teacher has spent time preparing a lesson for your benefit, and one talks and disrupts so the teacher is never heard, that is being rude and thoughtless."

He and I parted friends with an understanding. He is a good kid - I'd have had trouble as well had I been in his chair. I can visualize what will need to be done next week when we meet again. There are several solutions - one of them is bound to work. Or...she may be back in public school again soon.

Kids you gotta love 'em

Grammyof13

Ramblings and other musings

2010-10-27T12:17:00.000-05:00

It is a cool fall morning in Conway today. Sounds like the beginning of a morning news show doesn't it? My daughter reports snow in Iowa and who knows what else is happening in the world as I stretch and yawn, do a few bend to touch the toes, and reach for the sky trying to get the kink outta my ailing back. It is an every morning thing really. It isn't the bed that causes the wrinkle or kink as I prefer to call it, it is the aging process that seems to have grabbed me and won't let go.

Funny thing aging. It is inevitable, and I'm not looking for a cure for old age, but if I had thought I'd live this long I woulda taken better care of myself! But here I am, it is November of a year I never thought I'd reach and staring head long into a future of many possibilities; With one possibility being the strong chance of living 30+ more years.

I really thought Jesus would return before the year 2000. I just couldn't get my brain to think the words January 1, two thousand ten or something like that. But on the eve of January one twenty eleven, I stand looking back at how things have changed in my short 65+ years. I sure don't know what God has planned, since I miss judged Him up to now. On that note, I'll say "it pays to stay prepared". For Jesus return may not be in our life time.

You already know I'm rambling today. I can't hide it. I have no real purpose for writing a blog today, other than to muse which is what I do a lot of these days. That is a good thing don't you think? It means I am still thinking - my brain is still in gear somewhat, and I am awake!

Let me tell you about my supper last evening. Judy will for sure know I am not a cook after she reads this! Pork Chops was our main course, and forgive me weight watchers, but they were in the skillet with a little flour doused on each side in a small amount of oil doing their frying thing. I thought I had the heat down low enough, when I stepped into the living room only a few short steps away to talk with my daughter on the phone. I promise I only had time to say, "Hello, and just checkin’ in" when I glanced toward the kitchen and there was nothing but black smoke.

Since my illness that ended in 2005, I have been careful of smelling fumes from aerosol cans much less smoke of that density. I'm known for handling crisis, and then going into panic mode when it is over. I started raising windows (after turning the stove off and removing the skillet to the sink, throwing the burned pork chop into another container). Poor Cricket was running for his life, as the smoke drifted through the rest of the house and the fire alarm went crazy. The combination of the smoke and the shrill of the alarm caused him to seek shelter elsewhere.

Had it not been six o'clock in the evening, I'm sure a neighbor would have called the fire department. Had they been outside and observed the smoke billowing out of the raised windows and open doors that is.

Anyway, my husband had gone to the store, and came back in when the panic was over, and Cricket and I had taken to the deck for fresh air. Not being able to find us after smelling the smoke, he was about to enter panic mode himself.

After many hours of coughing, I was close to deciding I needed to go to the ER for smoke inhalation.

Our momentary crises ended well, however now I have a problem that I hope you can help me with. How do I get the smell of the awful burnt pork chop out of my house, furniture, closets, clothes, my nostrils, etc. etc? A reply from you would be most welcomed.

OK I promise if I invite you to dinner at my house, you will never know the meat came from the deli down the street!! hehe

Grammyof13 waiting to hear from you.
Picture not mine - who had time to think of a camera? Not me!

Chance Meeting? I don't think so.

2010-10-24T14:54:00.004-05:00

I've been privileged to witness friendship among children that makes one stand up and take notice of how they blend. They may disagree however if adults stay out of it (!) they'll work out their problems and move on. Within minutes of their "fight" they won't even remember who instigated it or who was a fault.

Two of my great grandsons born to sisters, were born within one week of each other. One has Aspergers but the other one doesn't know it. Alex accepts Axton as he is and doesn't know he operates differently then he. To see these two soon to be six year old little boys together is precious. They wrap their arms around each other, they wrestle, they play ball, they play games - they are the best of buddy's.

There are two more who have just turned the big eight years old. One lives in Sioux City Iowa, the other in Bartlesville, OK. The miles separate them but their friendship remains strong. Each of their mothers is my daughters. One little boy is adopted; the other one has our blood. Does that make a difference to them? If they knew it or even understood it, I can't see it mattering to them. They never argue when they are together. Time is too precious. Their visits are usually only a few days long and we find them together alone away from the others doing their own thing. Talking about what is important to them, and for sure Logan and Parker are playing ball. They are the best of buddies.

I witnessed another kind of friendship this past Saturday that begs for a paragraph or two of my blog today. The picture at the beginning of this article is of two old men who met by chance. Maybe it wasn't by chance - it may look that way to me, but I think this one was destined to be.

Each of them was put in the Signature Care home by their families when their care need was more than the family could give. They were assigned to the same table in the dining room, and each of them wheeled themselves down to the dining room at each meal early so they could visit. They made association with mutual people they had known in the little town where they each had raised their family and a friendship began.

My father whose 102nd birthday we celebrate on Tuesday has never been an outgoing man. He has initiated very few conversationsin his lifetime but once he finds someone he can communicate with, he will share stories. Pete didn't mind asking questions so together they became friends. A bond of sorts was made and the two old men knew the other was only a few doors away and from that their days that turned to months and eventually years made their stay at Signature care tolerable.

Remembering that Daddy doesn't have an outgoing personality makes this story even more proof of their friendship. It was told that the two men met up with each other as they went toward the dining room. Daddy in his wheel chair looked over at Pete with hands on the wheels of his chair and said, "Wanna race?"

Pete began showing signs of Alzheimer's and had periods of aggression. Eventually he was moved to the dedicated area for Alzheimer's patients. Daddy wondered where Pete was and asked about him on occasion. Invariably when we visited, he talked about Pete and what a good man he was.

They have been apart for several months this year when on Saturday there was another chance meeting. Or was it a chance meeting?

Saturday when the family gathered to have his birthday celebration, we watched as 100+ baloons drifted toward the sky. Next the attendant at the Care facility pushed Daddy's wheelchair toward a big room where the family (which is quite large) could have some privacy. On the way to the big room, we passed through the Alzheimers wing and who was just inside the double doors but Pete.

The aid stopped pushing Daddy's Chair. Pete turned around. "Do you know who this is?" Daddy was asked. The scene from there leaves me at a loss for words. Watching the two old friends interact when they saw each other was worth every ounce of energy we had expended making the day happen, or all the money spent in getting there.
Daddy was alert, smiling at his ole friend Pete. Pete's countenance brightened as he looked at Daddy and smiled.
"You made it to 102!" he joyfully declared.
"Yea, I did. How you been doin"? he asked Pete.
"OK I guess," Pete answered. "I've wondered how you been doin".
"Purty good for an old man" came the reply.

It was an almost ackward moment for those of us standing by. Emotions ran high, we didn't know whether to cry or leave them alone for a few minutes.

The aid insisted she would see that they got to visit again soon. I hope she doesn't get too busy for it to happen. Daddy is going down hill fast and I want him to visit with Pete when he has a good day.

Leads me to understand that whether five, eight or 102 and in a second childhood, having a buddy is a lesson in life.

Grammyof13

On This Day a few Years Ago!!

2010-10-20T15:17:00.001-05:00

Several years ago in the land of my youth, I gave birth to a little 7 lb 2oz girl we named Sara Janean. Naming her after my Mother Sarah and where Janean came from I think was a name in a book I was reading at the time. She came on the eve of our 5th wedding anniversary and it was for several years, her birthday and our anniversaries were sorta blended even meshed together.

She was a shy insecure little thing that did not walk until she was 21 months old. She was so small no one minded picking her up and carrying her where ever she needed to go. In fact she did walk around the house, holding onto things so we knew nothing was wrong with her legs, she was just insecure as some kids are and tiny to boot.

A little brother came along in December of her 2nd year, and from there she started experiencing the world around her. The days of her insecurities slowly became a thing of the past as she found her voice. And find her voice she did.

She was never any trouble - dressing her could have become a chore for she loved clothes, and her hair had to be just right. Her dearest friend was her big sister Sandy. They shared a room and whatever Sandy did was always right in her eyes. She felt secure and protected when big sister was in her presence.

I think she was around 7 or 8 when I called them around our old piano and began teaching them to harmonize on a song. From her older brother Greg, then Sandy and myself we liked what we heard and from one song came another and another until we were confident to sing in public. Greg's voice changed eventually and he could no longer do the tenor part, so Janean found her voice and began singing with Sandy and me. Greg took on a solo voice, I taught him to play the guitar and we were on our way to having the most family fun a family can have - we sang in the car - we sang in the living room around the piano. We sang anywhere we had an opportunity and when the mood struck.

Life changes and kids grow up. I watched them grow and become separate from myself wanting to sing contemporary songs of the era. Tom the youngest joined the girls when Greg was busy with his family. My joy when watching them sing can not be explained.

God has given my little shy girl who is celebrating her birthday today, a voice range that astounds people who hear this petite girl/woman of less than 5 feet in height belt out a song. Though she and her brothers and sisters have families now, and miles separate them, each of them have taken their God given, Mother encouraged talent and blessed the church they each attend.

My shy little petite girl is a mother of two little boys who are the joy of her life. Janean is a stay-home mom, thanks to her husband Daryl, and is involved in their life-teaching them Godly values. And yes they can sing.

Happy Birthday Janean. Trying to sum up your life is not easy. Remember we've been through thick and thin, and the world knows you and I have a bond like a three fold chord. Love you mucho.

Mom/Grammyof13

Thanks for the Memories

2010-10-17T20:04:00.000-05:00

I've had time to take a nap this afternoon and am feeling somewhat refreshed. My mind is still so full of all the present memories I am trying to hold on to before they slip away. They may not leave me, but in case I want to record them so I can read my own story again and again.

I'm sure we will have pictures soon, for there were many made. However to you the reader, unless you were there pictures will not bespeak the half. We gathered early to have family pictures made, and shortly thereafter people began arriving. I looked up to see my friend Ramelle from Memphis with her daughter Stephanie. Ramelle and I go back to the 1970's and have remained friends forever. Her husband chose the deer woods - I forgive him for I knew anything that happens during deer season takes back seat!!

Two of my sisters Lois and Linda from Tenn along with Linda's husband Paul came in a day early and had a great visit on Friday night at my house where we had a semblance of a conversation with everyone chatting at once it seemed. Especially when we all get to gether after a long absence, we have lots to talk about and the laughter was heard around the neighborhood I could guess.

My oldest sister Donna's children came, well two of them, Barry and Vickie. Barry's wife Cathy, and three of Vickie's daughters along with her only grandson Damien came from the area of Tenn which I call home. For them all to have made the effort to come help us celebrate was more special than they will ever know until they are in my shoes. How sweet and thoughtful of each of you. Love those girls, Brittney, Kelsey and Lindsey.

By naming names I am sure to get in trouble. So for anyone whom I miss, I am not through writing and won't be for awhile to come. I still have Thank you notes to do yet.

A dear man Robbie Harris and his wife Sarah from Mississippi, really surprised us. What a treat to have them make the drive for only the day. He and Verlon shared their stories of school boy pranks of hiding the teacher's paddle and more. At the end of the day we separated but not before promising we would not let our fellowship stop here.

Verlon's youngest brother David and his wife Doris also made the trip to be with us only to have to return to their home the same day. That is really a sacrifice on us who are feeling the stress of the years that we have come through.

Rhonda also came up from Texas, getting up before dawn and making the drive by herself. She had to return home this morning, but not before we were able to express to her just how grateful we are/were for her friendship and the sacrifice she made.

From Arkansas many of what I refer to as my "49'ers" group. Once, a few years ago I got a group of seniors together and started doing things. Fall Folliage trips, Christmas parties, Dinner Theaters, and just about any excuse to have a time of fellowship. Well all of them were there with few exceptions. What a treat to have us all together again. We all go to different churches, due to living in several areas, but we still keep in touch as our busy lives will let us. It was great to see you guys. Thanks for coming.

Young couples who have been part of our lives for many years came with their children and some grandchildren to celebrate with us.

I'm sure you get the picture without pictures even. To repeat myself, Dad and I are overwhelmed at the outpouring of love from so so many. Life has a way of telling us we've lost touch, and wonder if we made a difference in our years. With the testimonials and compliments on my children, I've accepted that even without making much of an effort, we did touch others by the mere fact we were a family of overcomers. We were a family who was not afraid to minister - to love - to reach out - to touch - to embrace - to accept - to not hide our hard times so people watched us overcome them and show them how. Only through Christ who was center of our home could anything be accomplished to His glory.

Thanks again Greg & Debbie, Tom & Steph, Sandy & Ron, Janean & Daryl, Michelle & Mike, Sharon & Tim for all you did to make our 50th Wedding Anniversary a total success. We love you.

Mom & Dad,
Doris & Verlon

Looking Back on 50 years

2010-10-15T13:44:00.001-05:00

I'm sure the preparations my children are making for our big day tomorrow is much more than mine. However preparing for company has added a few more preparations than usual. Actually I am looking so forward to seeing everyone who attends. As with any event, we will know who comes, when they arrive as everyone who has RSVP'd may not make it, then those who didn't may come anyway. So goes things in this life.

I guess I could reminisce on our 50 years. We only dated a couple months, when he asked me to marry him. I was away from home doing church work at the young age of 20, when I met him in Mooreville Miss. I loved the people in the small community, and his family was much like mine. Country folks who had come up the hard way. I recognized he was gentle and kind, a little on the shy side, and me being a talker we managed to mesh quiet well. He has become more of a talker over the years, and now for sure he loves finding someone to interact with. He never meets a stranger.

He has been kind to me, and loved me through thick and thin. I laugh at several of our arguments that are sure to ensue through out the years. I was packing up to go home after a big argument, (meaning move back to my moms and dads), when I realized I really had no place to go. Unlike today's culture where kids are welcomed back home if their marriage gets in trouble. I felt I would not be welcomed, or would look like I was a failure. So the realization brought me back to the earth and things got better after talking it out.

Another time, we had moved into our first home. My husband was a long distance truck driver for Levi Strauss where he retired from. He was home for a few days, and as usual I do not remember what we were arguing about. My youngest girl was about 7 probably, and she was setting at the kitchen table watching us go at it with tongues wagging. Seeing her would be like watching someone playing tennis. First her little eyes were on me, and the next thing it was on her Father. Back and forth, back and forth never saying a word.

At last however she raised up and said, "Yaw'll gonna get a divorce? If you do I'm goin' with my Daddy." After I regained my composure, I had to laugh. The laughing made us forget what we were arguing about. That remains one of our favorite stories even today.

There have been fun times, hard times, good times and bad times. However we've learned going through these times with someone by your side, makes for a stronger marriage and lots of memories. He has been the best nurse one could have when I've been sick. He has come off the road, and rocked a sick baby all night so I could get some rest. He has been a very conscientious provider and supporter. My years of ministry after the children were in high school and beyond, he released me to go into many parts of this great world of ours and minister to women who were going through similar trials that I had come through. He will have part in my reward I am sure, for not holding me back.

I have compassion on those who never make it to 50 years. Somehow not having those years in common to remember when must leave a hole in ones latter years. Memories are meant to share together with the one who helped in making those memories.

Anyway, I must get busy. I am going to have company soon, and I'm not getting my to do list done.

Grammyof13 moving on.

The Next Thing...

2010-10-08T11:10:00.001-05:00

My last post was so somber that I want to quickly add one on an up note. I am capable of writing them. However life has seem to be on the bass notes of late. Especially when an impending death seems to capture the mind.

I called home yesterday to learn, my Dad has followed through with his character and gotten out of bed and decided to go to the dining room!! Yes, he was fully dressed yesterday and ate each of his 3 meals in the dining room with the other residents. Am I happy? Yes, I am almost speechless as well. I am laughing one minute and crying the next. On Wednesday after we started home, and when my sisters were visiting with him, he decided they should make his birthday pictures!

They quickly made arrange for our niece who is a photographer to come after work and make his birthday pictures. He was pretty much dictating which ones to make - including one with his 10 gallon hat on!! So in the bed with his t-shirt on - he donned his cowboy hat. I believe he will be here for his BD celebration on the 23rd of this month, and we may be planning his 103rd BD this time next year! He is a hoot.

In the mean time I have found my next project. There is always "the next thing" on our list of "to do's" and mine is to finish getting my house in order for a house full of company next week-end. We have family coming from Tenn and Miss to help us celebrate our 50th anniversary on the 16th. My house is not quiet company ready, so I have exactly a week to do the next thing on my unmade list.

The first being, to get off this computer and start the biggest project of cleaning my office.
Office cleaned and organized -
Freezer/refrigerator cleaned - check
Living room - cleaned, rearranged, vacuumed and dusted-check
Clean linens on spare beds - check
floors mopped -
bathrooms cleaned - check (will have to do again I'm sure)

Grammyof13 on the move

Departure

2010-10-07T11:56:00.001-05:00

Another trip behind us. We got to the nursing home just before 10 on Monday morning to find Daddy still in the bed. Very unusual for him, as just the day before he had been up in his chair. He was ex-pecting us but never recognized us when we arrived. I think he looked for us all day, and finally understood we were there.

I hate not seeing him eat, and drink only sips of water plus now and then a sip of coffee. However for the most part he has stopped eating. His vital signs remain strong, and his body is functioning still. The Doctor advised us to do what we felt like doing about a constant vigil around him. Big problem is that his children are mostly in their late 60's and early 70's, and are unable to set with him at night in the accommodations they have to offer.

Janean, my daughter from Oklahoma did go with us, and set with him on Monday night using a "Gerry" chair for a bed. She insisted she slept well and was adamant that her aging Aunts and Mother could not do it. She said she made it fine, and we were glad to have her there during his restless times through the night so she could call for help.

The staff did put a buzzer on him when we had to leave yesterday, so that should he try to get out of bed, they would be alerted. But hey...if he needs to go to the bathroom, he would normally get up set on the side of his bed and use the urinal. He calls them and they don't come, he just helps himself get up, and fell off the bed the other night. They insisted the rails were up on both ends of the bed. He wasn't hurt, but was bruised.

Watching life try to leave one so bent on living is an experience we've never had before. At one point he woke up on Tuesday and said, "today is my birthday". Everyone in the room said, "Well Happy birthday."

Later he said, "I'm 102 today, I've got to get up - today is my birthday." Each time I pacified him with "Yes we are going to celebrate".

Somewhere later in the day, he realized it was not his birthday, and told my sisters "Doris was confused. She thought today was my birthday." Never a dull moment. It made for a good laugh.

I pray his transition to his rest is an easy one. I think the struggle comes when we fight the process so. But what do I know? I've never been there. No one has ever come back to tell us the passing was a breeze.

I often think of the picture the Gospels give us of Jesus death. It was hours he spent in agony of soul and body before He finally cried with a loud voice, then gave up his spirit. May the signigicence of what was taking place on the cross was what took so long - I'm not sure. The burden of our sin He was taking to the cross, the spilling of His blood to cover our sins both past and future, the moral man He had become for your sake and mine did not make it easy to hang there in pain and wait. Wait really, while they dished out more tortue on His natural body.

A little different scene that watching my Dad try to lay down so that his soul can rest. A rest no one can comprehend, while his earthly body waits for the resurrection at Jesus second coming to take on immortality and go up with Jesus and the heavenly host into heaven where we will live for 1000 years.

I don't spend much time thinking of death as a rule. But watching one so close try to make his departure is (as I said before) an experience I've never had before.

I'll keep you posted.

Grammyof13

What a Difference A Phone Call Makes

2010-10-02T16:49:00.000-05:00

One never knows from one moment to the next how a day will end. That is not a profound statement. I can see how a simple phone call can change one's life in a moment, or the ringing of a door bell of a trooper, or someone with a message we have not anticipated can bring a series of changes we had not planned for our day.

Case in point. On the way to school last Tuesday I received a call that my almost 102 year old Dad was in the hospital. Now he has not been in the hospital since he was 98, and that illness set in motion the plans to place him in a nursing home or for a better word, Signature Care.

That hospital trip left everyone involved with a memory we'd rather not recall. Especially him. Within a couple days of getting him to the hospital, for fluid build up, he was incoherent, wild, and like a caged animal. He tore at his clothes, kicked the railing of the bed, tried climbing out of the bed in his medicated stupor. He fought anyone who came near, he flailed his arms. he managed to get out of his clothes; something he would never have let happen being the modest man he had always been.

The Doctor told us, "It is part of the dying process!" I accepted the Doctor's word. However two of my sisters who are his care-givers began putting two and two together and coming up with a definite four.

He was very much in his right mind when he was admitted.
He was able to answer all their questions.
Indeed he was swollen 50 or more lbs over his weight,
But he was not senile, unresponsive, or crazy.
So what happened in two days?

Asking to see his medical records, they learned he was on medications he didn't need. He has never been one to take much medications, and what they were giving him was too strong. Thus having an adverse affect on him.

A couple days later after the Doctor backed off giving him whatever drug it was, he gained his self control. He was coherent. He was calm. He was not wild, and was not saying crazy things. He was in his right mind and said, "They were trying to kill me. I tried to tell someone, but no one would hear me."

Yes, those were the days, we'd rather soon forget. However he has not forgotten them either, as when they told him they were sending him to the Hospital, he gave them a few orders. He only stayed overnight, and only went to sleep when my sister assured him she would see they gave him only what would make him better.

My blog is not about those days - even though the story seems to fit. My story today is after the phone call this past week, we have made arrangements to go home. His mind is still great, and wants visitors. We will go prepared for all circumstances. The test reports from his hospital stay on Monday shows he is in the latest stages of heart failure. Whatever that means is anyone's guess.

I have hopes of having a conversation with him again. I have hopes of getting to pray with him again. I have hopes of singing for him again. I have hopes of listening to his stories again. I have hopes...
I know he is an old man. Very few men live to the ripe old age of 102. And because of his alertness, his good mind, and cantankerous ways, it will be difficult not to have that anymore. I guess it boils down to me trying to say good bye. I finally said good bye to the old home place where I dreamed and planned, counted the stars, sang in the moonlight, caught fireflies at dusk, walked the new plowed fields, ran through the weeds wet with dew, walked the steep hill down to the spring and back again, and picked up black walnuts. My mind won't stop. I have a life time of memories that flood me at times like this - the bad memories are crowded out by all the peaceful ones.

In fact our trip home may just jog more memories loose from my sluggish brain.

Grammyof13

God's Little People

2010-09-28T22:35:00.000-05:00

School again today. Everything went great. Another new student. She is reported to have aspergers syndrome. She was very quiet, was able to keep up with the work and very intelligent in her participation in class.

Understandably I know very little about the syndrome. Our great grandson was diagnosed shortly after birth, but he is thriving wonderfully well in school and is developing into a very bright young man, of whom we are all proud as punch. Our little man is very mischievous, plays baseball in summer and is an all round joy just to watch him interact with others.

My new student will be no less I'm sure. I know nothing about her yet. However I'll give myself time as I have a few months to know her better.

My story today is this. It was the end of the day. The children had left their last class, picked up their lunch box and was waiting in the waiting area for permission to go outside when their parents drove up to get them.

I was doing nothing in particular, when a little fellow so small with small glasses that fit tightly on his little turned up face, came to get my attention. I leaned over as close to eye level as I could to hear him say, "Do you know what color my glasses are?" He had taken his glasses off his face, where a band had been tied from one "leg" or temple to the other. Expecting them to be difficult to keep on his face, this is a precaution a lot of parents make until the child gets accustomed to keeping the glasses on.

He held his little round eye glasses up to me, so I could examine their color. "Well," I hesitated taking my time. "I would say they are brown!"

"No" he giggled. "They are root bear". Duh, now why didn't I recognize they were root beer brown?
I had to agree with him, "They sure are, just the same color as root beer". He started his story of what color root beer was, and how he liked root beer, and how he like his glasses..."

I found an opportunity between his quick breaths to ask him his name. He didn't bother to tell me, he started spelling it. "C-h-a-c-e! is my name."

"Oh, your name is Chase", I said with excitement.

"No, it is C-h-a-c-e" he protested.

Again, I said, "Chase?"

Again he repeated the spelling and I tried again.

Eventually I mustered some comment that satisfied him, until one of my 7th graders walked up. My little friend grabbed the young man from behind, with his little arms around his waist excited to see the boy.

"Do you know him?" I asked my little friend.

The 7th grader whose name was Chris, said, "Oh you have met my little brother."

"Oh Yes, we have been exchanging names. He is spelling his name for me and I'm not understanding. Want to help me out?"

"His name is Chance", Chris supplied me with the much needed missing letters that Chance had been so proud to spell. I figured he was learning to spell and write his name in his kindergarten class, and saying it was too old fashioned. Spelling showed how smart he was.

I love these encounters with God's little people. Hearts so pure, and minds so open to learn, and as for Chance not afraid to approach an adult in a safe situation. I always dread the day when they get hurt by someone who has no sense of compassion for a little boy who is doomed to wear glasses, and may be having to overcome other physical problems. At his age he is secure, as he should be. He feels accepted and loved as well he should. I just wish that for all the other little boys out there with glasses tied around his head or not.

"Let the little children come to me..." Jesus said.

Grammyof13

Blog postings - few

2010-09-25T13:52:00.002-05:00

My trips to post have been few and far between lately. Not that I've planned it that way, but as you have heard me say before, life happens on the way to writing.

I've been offered a book contract to publish my manuscript on The Broken Clock (The Forgiving Journey). So far I've had no one to look over the contract with me and from what I can see it seems the publisher would make all the money with a very small percentage left over. I'm not disappointed at this point, I'm continuing to work and finish my manuscript. There is a publisher who will take a chance on me and be willing to work with me. I'm thinking of self publishing which will mean getting a sponsor, or coming up with the money myself. There are advantages of doing self publishing, and after weighing the odds I'm not totally sure that isn't the way to go. I'll keep my heart open to see which way the Lord wants me to go. In the mean time I'll keep writing, and perfecting my story.

It is Saturday again, and the Journey through Prophecy this week has only gotten better. There are still classes I will attend next week, but I have taken a couple days off to let my mind slow down and catch my body. Or is that the other way around? Anyway, I have taken every chance I could to go back over my notes. I think digesting it is what the scripture calls it. Like a cow chews his cud, we chew on the Word again and again until it is digested into our heart to stay forever therefore becoming a part of our life without effort.

If I were a football watcher, I would be settling down to watch the Razorbacks kill Alabama. However, I will listen to how loud Verlon and Cricket get in the bedroom, where I have banned them to watch the game while I put my house in better order. When my husband gets excited about a touch down or a 1st down (or whatever jargon they use) Cricket gets equally excited. They are a hoot.

Have a good week-end and thanks for stopping by.

Grammyof13

Ramblings.

2010-09-22T14:16:00.000-05:00

Another day at the Academy went wonderfully well. I never cease to be amazed at kids from all walks of life and how they learn.

My 3rd and 4th grades of which there are 8 were all so eager to get into their class of history/comprehension. We add writing to their curriculum and we have a combination that is interesting and challenging and fun. I do have one who is ADDHD but he was so proud of himself yesterday when he got the words right. I did pray before the class that it would go well, and my prayer was answered.

Then my speech class which is made up of 7 & 8th grades, went well also. There is one who is outstanding in everything he undertakes, but is also patient with his classmates. I don't think his intelligence is a big deal to him. It seems learning comes so easy. I love these kids who have applied themselves in their home school who have not accepted limitations.

Then writing encompasses 7-12, and I was so thrilled at what they did yesterday. I decided I may have to take a different approach to stretch them. I gave them the first sentence of a story, and they went in 8 different ways which shows the diversity of each of them. The sentence beginning was "Through the open door..." None went in the direction of the abstract or weird, but sensibly one saw a kitten, and made a complete page and half story. Another saw a bright light, and finished the story concerning the bright light. Believe me they were brilliant. I'm just saying I may have to come up with a different approach. It is only the beginning of the year, so we'll have to see what they can come up with in the future.

The Journey through Prophecy is still going on. It has been the easiest school of learning I have ever attended. Normally going somewhere every night would wear me out, however he starts on time, and goes for an hour and I can get home in less than 15 minutes. I have been so blessed to make so many notes, and now I am ready to compare what others are teaching on the same subject. There are many theories on whether the church will be taken out of the world before the tribulation, during or after. I am still open to learning. So far this has not been covered in the classes. I have my own idea, with few scriptures to back me, but I am still open to more learning. I know the Scriptures will make it plain in time.

Anyway, hubs started with the post office last week-end and enjoys it so far. There are always adjustments to make in this life. Do you agree? I'd like to know about the adjustments you encounter occasionally.

Grammyof13

Journey through Prophecy

2010-09-18T11:29:00.000-05:00

I love quiet Saturdays. My husband started working for the US post office running one of the big trucks of mail from LR to points beyond, so he is resting today. I woke up at 4:45am when he came in, and he was able to tell me he was going to like it. Naturally, I won't see Cricket today, as he has to stand guard at Papa's bed while he sleeps. They are truly a pair!

I have been attending a seminar called "Journey through Prophecy". To say it is interesting would not describe it. It has been more than that, and each night has built on the lesson from the night before. So many mysteries have been unraveled for me, and everything is scripturally sound. No hearsay, no "I think so" but proven by history and scripture.

I consider myself a student of the Word, and am authorized by my church headquarters to teach the Bible which I have done since the late 70's. However, prophecy was not something I delved into. Being a lover of history has made this series of studies very easy to comprehend, as the speaker is very knowledgeable in Biblical history as well as World history. They go hand in hand.

He is world traveled, researching the subject of prophecy and its fulfillment, from ancient archaeological digs, to museums in the Middle East, to interviewing historians, etc. He also owns a documentary film company, and with the one documentary film I have in my possession, it is very high-class work.

I wonder why seemingly few people are interested in Prophecy. Frankly, learning all I've heard this week, does not make me afraid because we are living in the last days. Instead, it serves as information and informing ourselves about any coming event is a great tool. How can one prepare for a flood, if one does not see the storm clouds and torrential rains that follow?

The Bible tells us that if we knew a thief (burglar) was going to come in the night, we would set watch and be ready for him. Therefore, apply the same thought here, if we know and understand the signs of the times, than we can stand watch and live prepared for what is coming.

It boils down to the second coming of Jesus. So armed with information, we can be prepared for that day or hour of which no one knows.

It is natural when we began seeing the shadows lengthen; we realize the sun is starting its descent in the West.

We know dusk and then darkness will soon follow. Historically it has always been this way. Why would we expect it to be any different today?

As we inform ourselves about the happenings of the last days, and what Bible prophecies will happen, we will soon know what to expect next, and next, and then next. It is not difficult, it is a matter of opening up the heart to see what the Word says, and not be afraid of what we can learn. The Bible is not meant to scare us but to equip us.

Anyway, I am getting full – though there is yet room for more information.

Trust you have a great weekend and week.

Grammyof13

Home School Enrichment Academy

2010-09-15T12:37:00.001-05:00

The Enrichment Academy started yesterday, and I made the decision a few months ago to give myself to some young people who are home schooled otherwise. My aim is to encourage learning, and maybe make a difference in a few lives who have just begun to live. From third and fourth graders to seniors in high school, the age distance is great. Learning however, encompasses all ages. By reason of being at it longer, the high school students are more advanced over the lower grades, but each one has more learning they can add to their resume.

I love the expectation on the faces of the third and fourth grade children. Part of it is to see whether or not they are going to like me. I look at their little upturned faces and wonder if they will be able to understand. I also pray I am not over their head, and that I won't assume they know what I'm talking about. I'm not around many 3rd and 4th graders and have a natural fear of talking beyond their comprehension.

At the same time I don't want to speak below the intelligence of the upper grades. Time will tell, and I may have to change my approach. For sure I have goals, and have given them goals to reach for.

Implanting in them the bar is not too high to reach for. Encouraging them that spelling is important, that speech is important, and will prepare them for life.

It is a privilege to be a part of such a program. I know I will be blessed for giving of my time to enrich the lives of young people, however my greatest wish is that I can make learning fun and interesting insomuch their lives will be enriched.

Kids are funny - we'll talk about that later.

Grammyof13

Salute to the Troops

2010-09-11T22:15:00.001-05:00

Below is the article I wrote for the Examiner today. I wanted to share it here for those who do not go to the web site.

Who would have known ten years ago September 1, America and its allies would be in a war lasting almost a decade? All because of what happened a week later American travel would forever change. Where once we boarded a plane with few thoughts of terrorism, in fact to me it happened in Israel, or India or other places around the globe, but not to the United States of America.

For those too young to remember the early 70's when Skyjacking was beginning to surface as a serious problem, there are many places on the web which gives history of planes that were bombed, and suicide missions attempted. Patrick Smith in on his column "ask the pilot" has listed in chronological order the "golden age of air crimes." A look back at some of the worst airline-related terrorism of the '70s, '80s and '90s

I found it very informative, as I am sure you will as well. Busy with raising my family in the decade of the 70's I did not recall all of the incidents he shows. However it gives us a picture of the events leading up to 9-11 when the tragedy of terrorism hit home. Too close to home in fact.

We watched the news as the hijacked planes hit the world trade center, and for several minutes as our televisions blared the news, we were stunned. First thinking it was surely an accident. Shortly however, we were brought to our knees when we realized it was a deliberate act of men and their country who were bent on destroying what they considered the heart of America. And with the second plane hitting another world trade center building, we had no question who was at the root. From there our televisions were not turned off for weeks - for fear we would miss something significant which would give us hope that we were going to be all right. Or maybe give us an idea of what to do as an American so many miles away from the many scenes of tragedy.

It wasn't long until every branch of our Armed Forces were at their station ready to go wherever needed. Security was heightened..Many canceled flights. Lives changed. Many were reminded of how important it was to tell our family and friends those three coveted words "I love you".

The fearless firemen went about their duties as they had been trained, protecting the lives of their city. The national Guard went to work without question. They had a job to do, and do it they did.

Whether the war started in the right place, is not mine to question. Whether we went to war too soon, or not soon enough, I do not have the expertise to know. There comes a point when we have to rely on the integrity of our elected officials, and my opinion counts only at the voting booth. However when our young men and women sign up for duty, they promise to go where they are sent without question.

This column is not about tragedy, terrorists or planes. Though each of these subjects inevitably leads to our Troops who hold their head high, proud to be an American, with the worthy cause of protecting the Freedom America stands for. Do they look back? Probably not. They deem it an honor to serve these United States of America. Those who have died for the cause? We especially honor them for they gave more - they gave their all - they gave their life.

Many of our Troops will come home to anxious waiting families. Even though battle worn, and weary, I hear them say, "I will do it again if my country needs me." The same goes for men who have made careers of being a soldier. Were it not for their senior years, they would indeed go to battle again. What other country can boast of such loyalty in its people?.

I want our Country to stay free. Thanks Mothers and Fathers who have blessed their sons and daughters who made a big choice of joining our Armed Forces. May the Lord richly bless you for the sacrifices you have made to our country. To the women who have become single moms for several months, so their husband could serve, I thank you. Then the men who have become single fathers so their wife could fulfill her tour of duty during battle, please know I thank you for your sacrifice.

In Brief may I say as I stand - "Salute to our Troops

Grammy of 13

Poetry.

2010-09-04T15:08:00.000-05:00

I wrote a poem. Not that I'm a poet, but it explains what my blog is all about today.

I've learned in my life,

with its trouble and strife,

That when fat hits the ground

It doesn't roll.

Instead there is a sound

it makes when it hits the ground,

It is more like a SPLAT

and however much it is

it lays flat!

If there is a slope or a hill

when one takes a spill,

Believe me, fat is not round

and when it hits the ground

It just lays there!

I didn't take poetry in school, and that is something I stop to write very often, but it draws you a picture hopefully.

With all the medications I'm on - I look like a four foot two, with eyes of ~~blue~~ green walking around. When we were in silver dollar city, we opted for walking the hillside and byways and mountain trails. Now for out-of-shape elderly folks, that was not the best idea we've ever had. We made it fine, stopping to rest occasionally. And really did do quiet well until we started out of the park. Now regardless of how well I can talk, to describe to you in this blog just how I fell would take too much of your time, so just believe me when I say I took a spill.

It gave me a few minutes to catch my breath, so I lay there on the cold ground and caught my breath!! The on lookers waited for signs of life, before they did anything but stare! I can imagine what was going through their mind - but I'll leave it to your imagination as well.

Finally a park employee called a paramedic who came and his first question was "What are you doing on the ground?" Even in my embarrassment and pain, I wanted to say, "I just wanted to kiss the ground...."

Anyway, all is well that ends well. No broken bones just sprained left hand where I tried to catch myself before my face hit the concrete. My right arm is banged up pretty bad and has a bruise as big as Texas.

On getting home Thursday evening late, my husband went into Atrial Fibrillation and was taken to the Heart Hospital in LR. They kept him for 27 hours and sent him home after getting his heart regulated. What a way to end a almost perfectly good week.

Now to writing some more. I'll try to brush up on poetry before I do any more. Hope everyone has a safe holiday day.

Grammyof13

Complimentary Vacation!

2010-08-31T10:51:00.000-05:00

Thanks to our Children, we are enjoying a few days stay at the Bradford Inn in Branson, MO. Beautiful room and the accomodations are the greatest.

After a full breakfast this morning, we took our coffee and went to the deck outside the breakfast area, on the east side of the building. The sun was well into the morning around 9:30 but the raise of an umbrella kept the sun from being in our eyes too much. The Inn sits on the north side of the mountain, where we were able to look out over the city on the east. I can only imageine what the view will be in few weeks when the leaves begin to change and the scenery comes forth in a burst of color.

Because of our 50th wedding anniversary this year, we received season passes into Silver Dollar City which is also celebrating their 50th year. This week and for about 10 days, Gospel quartets and groups are entertaining in the park. We plan to go this afternoon for awhile, and really haven't made too many plans beyond that.

We ate a great meal (our favorite) at the Olive Garden last evening, then went riding around the city to see what it has to offer since the last time we were here. I did manage to get by a couple stores in each mall, was surprised really that they were opened until 9, since the summer season is almost over. One thing we are liking is that the city is not crowded as before when we were here in the heat of summer.

V. is out of the hospital and doing great. So after the past couple weeks I've had (we've had really) this complimentary vacation came at a great time.

Grammyof13

We will Know...

2010-08-27T11:52:00.003-05:00

Well it happened again. This time it was 45 minutes after the day started. The death angel hovered around until then to take Sue home. I've written about her. I've told you about her sister Mary who passed away in March of Cancer of the most horrible kind. Not that any cancer is not horrible, it has to be the most devastating news in life to learn one has terminal cancer.

However the kind that attacks every vital organ in the body is the enemy with a capitol E.   Mary and her sister Sue were diagnosed around the same time with the killer cancer, and while they took it in stride and lived out their days well-considering the Doctor's visits, the Chemo trips, and tons of meds the rest of the family of one sister and three brothers started their grieving process.

Mary and Sue became a testimony of how one deals with the brevity of life and facing eternity; or how one deals with leaving everything they've become accustomed to. Dealing with the fact that the other life will be different. Glorious according to all accounts, but different none the less.

With one foot in this world, and their eyes on the next, they still struggled to remember the faces they knew at a mini second, their grandchildren, their children, the companion they've raised children with, scaled mountains and walked hand in hand through valleys with, as they did not want to forget. That's part of living for several months with part of themselves here, and part of themselves already in the next world.

It is difficult to fathom how things will be there, for we only have word pictures that describe it, yet our finite minds cannot even then seem to get a good grasp. It is difficult to visualize that we will "know as we are known"

Paul in 1Co 13:12 says it this way, "For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known."

Sue Green Stegall died this morning around 12:45. Her days of suffering are over. And now the family is left to grieve yet the loss of one of their own. Yes greving for those gone on before is natural. Not that we would call them back. We have to go on living with one less in our midst. No mother to replace her. No wife for Kelly - she and Mary surely left a vacancy where they once were. There will be a hole in the heart of their children and siblings. A hole that only God can fill with Himself in time. And HE will. Believe me He will. That is how He does things. He creates voids in our life, so we can be filled with HIMSELF. His Love, His Goodness, Kindness, and HIS Spirit.

We will miss you Sue. But God has granted us extra time to get ready for our day of parting. Rest in Peace my Friend.

Doris or
Grammyof13

I need a Sabbatical

2010-08-16T23:10:00.000-05:00

What a week! No that was last week. Oh well, the same is going for this week too, and today is only Monday.

I had a couple Doctor's appointments today - the first sent me for a Venus Doppler for finding blood clots in my legs anyway. I don't think there are any, just a reaction to more medications I've been given. The swelling feet and legs. When I went to my afternoon appointment, my husband was going to his first Doctor's appointment since June.

They put him in the hospital for the same thing as in June. An infection in the lower bowel. Starting putting anti-biotic through him, and will do a CT scan tonight.

I am ready for the phones to stop ringing and I can have a quiet day to rest my brain. I am feeling stressed with a lot on my plate. Does that happen to you? What do you finally do about the need to hide under the bed, or lay in the hammock?

I spoke of the feeling last week on facebook as needing a sabbatical. As a christian since I was the tender age of 12, I have come to the knowledge of how much the Lord is our sabbath. More than a day, or a place, a where or when, He is our rest. I figured out that is what's missing in my life, a time to hide away with my bible and note pad and read, write, listen and pray.

I am glad for retirement - so I can do it without feeling guilty. I don't need guilt added to the stress of everyday life right now.

Things will get back in order soon. My children are sending us on an anniversary trip a little early, but it will be goo to get away for a few days. The 30th of this month we will go to Branson for several days. Thanks for the holiday kids. It will come just in time.

Trust everyone is doing fine and had a great week-end.

grammyof13

The Wheels on the Bus go round and round.

2010-08-10T15:29:00.002-05:00

I know now why I don't shop at Target. I came to that conclusion today by the way. I volunteered at the Salvation Army to chaperon underprivileged kids on a shopping trip to Target. The aim was to get school supplies, and we had $80 gift card to do it with.

I was assigned a little 12-13 year old girl going into the 7th grade whose name is Jaymee. Very cute and personable and we made a great match. We loaded on the big yellow school bus in front of the Conway Depart of the Salvation Army, and off we went. There was one chaperon to each child. I was expecting more, but found it was difficult enough with only one.

She knew what she wanted, and after the first couple items, she learned to look for the least expensive. I complained under my breath about how high they were. Everything was at least $1 to $2 higher than say, Walgreen's, Fred's or even Walmart. I kept thinking - I wish I had my car, I'd love to take this gift card and go shopping where the same $80 would purchase a whole lot more. Of course that was out of the question, since the rules stated two adults must go into the bathroom with one kid. One at the door and one outside the stall. Jaymee did not have to go to the bathroom, so we were safe.

You would have been proud of me, I kept my mouth shut. I declare though, that no wonder target opens their doors to this charity, they make a profit!

One thing about it, it has been m-a-n-y years since I boarded a big long yellow school bus. This one was so far removed from the ancient ones I rode to school on. It had air conditioning! I kept wanting to sing "the wheels on the bus go round and round." The volunteers around me dared me to start it. I never did. Getting back on the bus after our shopping trip, the Bishop (or whatever his title is with the Salvation Army Chapel Department in Little Rock) asked me if I was going to sing it. I really did start to, but I looked around and everyone was bonding. Each child's mouth was flapping and trying to get everything said they wanted to say before they got off the bus.

I'm hooked, I think I'll do it again Christmas if my life doesn't get crazy.

Grammyof13

My Garden

2010-08-05T13:58:00.004-05:00

These are the crazy, hazy, lazy days of summer. The days of soda of pretzels and lemonade - for me anyway to stay cool. Believe me when I say, I do not remember it ever being this hot in my life time. Of course I said the same thing about winter and its below zero temperatures.

My husband has made it his job to keep the flowers from dying, and of course my garden. I don't think I told you about my garden. It was in June, my daughter and her family had stopped on their way home from vacation to visit for a few days.

Her little boys have found a friend here in my neighborhood. Preston, her 8 year old decided to rake the leaves in the back yard that has little grass. I remarked "I don't want anyone to tell him what he is doing is work and not play..."

I watched him from my kitchen window as he picked up some old fence slats we had replaced with new ones. I wasn't sure what he was going to do but I let him be to do whatever he had on his mind.

That is the same day, my husband (aka Dad) was very sick. I made him a Doctor's appointment, and then the Doc sent him to the hospital.

My daughter and her family were supposed to go home that day, but before they could leave, Preston decided to make me a garden.

He took the boards (from the fence) and his dad realized that wasn't enough so they both went to Lowe's and got the end boards. Now Preston had watched me eat a cantaloupe that morning and remark how wonderful it was, and how much I liked them.

They searched the trash can where I had thrown the seeds and rind into a bag, found the seed, washed them and that was the first thing he planted in my garden. It was all a surprise to me so when I came home, He had me close my eyes, he took me by the hand and led me to the deck. I think he was pleased with my reactions as I looked down, close to the deck, he and his dad had planted a tomato plant, a squash, I think a pepper and of course the cantaloupe.

I finally got the picture to download after a day of trying. I've had computer trouble all week, so I have ordered me a new Dell lap top computer and I am overjoyed at life's simple pleasures. Maybe I can get a picture at a future time.

Until then, I'm reading - so you keep writing, and I'll keep trying.

Grammyof13

Good memories I hope!!

2010-07-31T19:39:00.002-05:00

I haven't told you what a fun time I had last week, as I renewed my mothering skills with 2 eight year olds and 2 six year olds. When my four were their age - well I guess they weren't their age after all. Close though, for mine would have been say...six, 8, 10, and 11. Close enough to the 4 I was privileged to have under my feet.

I admire mothers of children this age. True, my daughters each have 2 of these and not all 4 at one time, but I still admire mothers of today. I declare things must be different. My daughter was well prepared for us - she thought of everything down to each meal. Yet there is something about this age group they are like teenage boys - they each have a hollow leg!!

I cooked good meals, they ate, but 15 minutes later they wanted something else. I gave up on trying to get all the dishes into the dishwasher - I had to fill it up, get them dried and put away, then do it again. Mind you we used paper plates yet somehow there were always dirty dishes. The best I remember in my days of mothering, it wasn't a lot different. I've had time to forget it in between the late 70's and this century.

I think this age children are tattle tales. Do you think so? My daughter and her husband provided a water slide thingy - so each morning after they picked up the living room - I let them play outside.

The door opens just enough for a wet body to show its head "Grammy, so and so isn't playing fair", to which I replied, "Aah really?"

The door closed only to open again with a different wet body and a little face peeks in the crack of the door, "So and so is hitting so and so!" to which I reply "I'm so sorry!" with as much pity as I can muster at the time.

Shortly thereafter another little wet face peeks through the crack in the partially opened door, and says, "So and so is crying, because so and so hit him/her" (You fill in the blanks here - I'm trying not to call names!!!)

"Well that is awful!" I exclaim with a soft disdain and the door closes as it did other times. I never bothered to get involved and the day went well. I tried it on the other days when each story was the same. It mainly worked. A couple times I had to get involved in a scrape but my strategy worked each time.

I'll admit I lost my cool only once on Friday. My body had gone its course I think, and by the time I finished with my tirade they were quiet the rest of the evening.

We made memories and the children will have a lot to talk about when they get older and want to tell everyone about the time "when Grammy came to keep us that summer" tale in front of all the cousins, to see if they can embarrass me!!! I can see it now.

The four on the front row are the little darlings I enjoyed for a week. Welcome home to their MOMS!

Grammyof13

Closing our eyes here - to awake there.

2010-07-28T00:04:00.001-05:00

There are few things that make me somber as going to a viewing/visitation night at the Funeral home. I really didn't know the man, but know his son and daughter-in-law. They live in the same town as I.

Robbie learned his father was terminal only a week ago, and decided to bring him into his home until the time Hospice should be called. It is reported he was alert for the five or so days he was in their home, to the point of making his final plans. Saturday morning around 4am he slipped from this life to the next in peace.

He was not one who lived on the church door steps as some do. He was known for providing for his wife and children and raised some great men and women who are good citizens contributing to society.
Yet his son had concerns that his father had not repented of his sins and ask Jesus to be his Lord and savior.

When in the hospital, my pastor went to visit him. While there, knowing the concerns of his family, he asked him about the condition in which he would meet the Lord, the judge of our life. He responded that he needed to get all that taken care of. It was then my my son prayed with him in the sinner's prayer and he asked the Lord to come into his heart.

I could think it sad that he waited so long to do something so natural for the eternal soul. However, I think of the thief on the cross. This man was a Thief. The bible makes that clear. Yet he realized he had made a mess of his life and asked Jesus to "Remember me on the other side". Jesus in all his agony while spilling his blood to the ground, accepted the thief then and there, "Today you will be with me on the other side". I love that story. I love that regardless of when, the important thing is that we do. Jesus is so willing to receive us back to himself, opening the door to eternal life and Peace.

It is a day that must come. That is what life is. A beginning and an end, with space inbetween for living. We choose to live dedicated to the Lord God of heaven, or we don't. However somewhere in our life we must make a conscious decision to ask Him to be our savior from eternal punishment. Eternity denotes there is no end. We won't spend eternity anywhere, for spending denotes that it will eventually pass and come to an end. On the other hand, accepting the fact that eternity cannot be measured, I will accept that
"My eye has not seen, nor has my ears heard, what God has prepared for them that love Him..." So in light of that truth, I accept that eternity will not - in fact - cannot be boring. I have days of reflection when I actually look forward to the day when I close my eyes here to behold what He has there.

What a thought.

Grammyof13

Too good not to share!!

2010-07-26T14:53:00.000-05:00

Across The Bayou!

Boudreaux live across de bayou from Clarence, who he don like at all. Dey all de time yell across de bayou at each other. Boudreaux would yell to Clarence, "If I had a way to cross dis bayou, I'd come over dere an beat you up good, yeah!"

Dis went on for years. Finally de state done built a bridge across dat bayou right by dere houses; and Boudreaux's wife, Marie, say, "Now is you chance, Boudreaux. Why don you go over der an beat up dat Clarence like you say?"

Boudreaux say, "OK," and start across de bridge, but he see a sign on de bridge an he stop to read it and den he go back home.

Marie say, "Why you back so soon?"

And Boudreaux say, "Marie, I dun change my mind 'bout beatin' up dat Clarence. You know Marie, dey got a sign on dat dere bridge dat say, 'Clarence 13 ft. 6 in.' You know, he don look near dat big when I yell at him across de bayou."

Grammyof13 - I'll be back later!!

No Day Care for me!

2010-07-22T15:32:00.000-05:00

Oklahoma is nice this time of year. Even with the heat, there has been a warm breeze blowing across the prairie bringing even a small break to the heat.
I had the clan of 4 helping me give cricket a bath today. I'm not sure if he was afraid to go anywhere, or whether he was actually enjoying the tub bath, but he was very obedient and still while a total of 12 hands (hands of 4 kids and two adults) were soaping him down. Then came the water hose when we sprayed the soap off, and still he was patient for us to get the job done. We borrowed the goats tub for a little while. Remember we are on a mini farm, where everything we'd have need of for such projects is readily available.
He looks very fluffy and white tonight.

I've made two batches of zucchini bread today. The kids love it, and it is a good bread to have on hand for their snack.

I have made a conscious decision however, that I do not like running a day care!!! I am real sure too, that I will probably never apply to work in one either. They are like flies, by the time you get one contained, and get the other ones attention, the first one is gone and so on, and so on. We do manage to sit down to the table for meals.

We took them swimming again today, and now they have gone to a party. It gives me some quiet time and them a time of getting their energy out in the pool at someone else's house!!! In the mean time I will try to get a handle on the wash.

Now their mothers will be home on Saturday and my job will be over - yea! We've had a blast, and when I get home I can post pictures.. Until then...

Grammyof13

Grand Sons

2010-07-15T21:20:00.001-05:00

Aren't they wonderful? I think so. Grand sons that is. Even Great Grand ones are wonderful. There are days when I have to have a grandson fix woefully bad. So Monday night my son dropped off his 2 boys ages 14 & 10 for a few days visit. You other grandmothers know that everything you want or planned to do goes out the window, and these past two days were no different for me.

They pretty much did what they wanted to do, and I tagged along. Even seeing the Despicable Me movie with them with tons of buttery popcorn thrown in. I set up late with them to watch a movie on FX on Monday night, but 1 a.m. bedtimes are hard on an "old lady" I hear!!! Maybe it makes one an old lady fast if she tries it very many nights in a row.

They went home today, and I knew the house would be quiet and empty. Papa (my husband) has worked these past two days, but as luck will have it he will probably be home tomorrow. Maybe soon he can get his Chandler and Clay fix.

Then school will start soon, and my granddaughters are trying to work out a day when I can meet up with the 4 great grand ones. The oldest of this crew was the big 8 years old yesterday. I could not help but reminisce about the day he came. It was the years when I was so very sick unto death. I did go to the hospital when he was born, but it was through effort and sheer want to be there. I didn't linger, for in those days my Lazy boy was my bed and I hurried home to get in it. Anyway, we were a happy bunch - My son calls himself Papa to Will, which seems to be the most endearing name for the men in our family. Papa. I like the sound of it as well. It was the title of my maternal grandfather.

It is amazing as the titles grandmothers are giving themselves. Or better yet, the grands are giving us. Will's mother named me when she was about twelve months old. I thought it was so unique and the best name - I would have never called myself Grammy otherwise. Now I realize I don't have a corner on the market!! There are a few others around.

We are going to Oklahoma on Sunday to keep the four others. Our daughters 3 little boys and 1 girl. My daughters are concerned for my strength! I just say I have not forgot my Motherly psychology! I still have eyes in the back of my head, and hopefully I still know how to stay a step ahead of their antics. I know how to put the fear of God in them. Well, that was the reputation I got from my children's testimonials anyway.

I also suggested to my daughters to ease their mind, "Just think of the blogging material I'll have after a week of 2 eight year olds and 2 six year olds". Hopefully Papa will get to go with me.

Anyway, I am busy with my writing these days. I'll share my new job with you in time.

I really do appreciate Judy for taking time to sign my guest book. I wish you would too, even if this is your first visit. Let me know you were here.

Blessings until....
Grammyof13

iGoogle

2010-07-15T13:11:00.000-05:00

iGoogle: "I'm living so far beyond my income that we may almost be said to be living apart.
- e e cummings"

Shopping!

2010-07-08T18:16:00.001-05:00

There is nothing like shopping with a friend, but I will be the first one to admit it can be tiring. Picture this, my elderly neighbor and I go shopping together occasionally, and today was one of those wild hair days. We synchronize our watches, exchange phone numbers and make a few plans. First I have to stop by the optical department to order new glasses. "Meet me in the back of the store at McDonald's and I'll buy you a drink." she said, as I continued with my eye glasses order. There is a few minutes elapsed, when she told me again to meet her in the McDonald's area.

Story in a nutshell - I finish my glasses order, leave him and start toward the back of the store with my buggy, but I find my friend grocery shopping. "I thought we were going to meet up at McDonald's", I said surprised that I saw her in the coffee isle looking for her favorite brand.

"Oh I just wanted to get my coffee. I had a coupon but I left it at the house I guess." So I thought "OK I'll just go ahead with my grocery shopping as well, since she isn't ready to get a coke yet."

I said, "I'll see you later. When you get ready for a drink, give me a call and I'll meet you."

"Well, I am ready if you are!" By now I am so confused. Do we? don't we? Will we?

We did stop long enough for a small ice cream and water over conversation. I decided to go through my coupons, and share them with her if she needed any. We were deep in checking coupons and talking like we always do when we are together. I looked down at my watch and it was 2pm. We had been in the store an hour and a half and had two things each in our basket. We separated again with "Call me when you are ready to check out".

I was so far from my routine, starting from the wrong place in the store, that I was about to forget what I came for, and go home with everything I didn't come for. I managed to use my coupons in selecting my items. With basket getting full, I needed to go back toward the pharmacy and get vitamins and toothpaste and such.

I called my friend and left a message as she didn't answer. I then got my items and got in line when my phone rang. "Where are you"? she asked.

"I am at the check out lane, where are you?"

"Oh I'm waiting for you at the front door, I've already checked out."

"OK, I'll be a few minutes as I am just now putting my items on the conveyor belt. there is still someone in front of me that has 6 months worth of groceries, so it will be awhile."

"That's all right, I'll wait here."

I continued with my emptying my basket when the phone rang again not more than 5 minutes later.

"Am I at the wrong door? Where are you?

"I am in front of the customer service area, getting checked out."

"Am I at the wrong door?"

"Remember we have to get my car which is at the back door. Remember I left it there to get the oil changed?"

"Oh yes, why don't I just go wait for you there?"

"Yes, that is a great idea. Find you a seat and I'll be there as soon as I check out."

We hung up the cell phones, I placed mine in my pants pocket and continued tying my grocery bags, and placing them back in the cart. Before I can pay for my purchase my cell phone rings again.

"Hello, where are you?" the familiar voice asked again.

"I am heading to the back door, why don't you just find a seat and wait for me." I wondered how many more times my phone was going to ring, as I walked the width and half the length of the big Walmart suprt center.

"I asked them if you had checked out yet and they told me you hadn't. So I took me a seat on a bench. I'll just wait for you here."

Finally, we had settled she made a great choice. By the time I got to the Auto check out, I was experiencing, exhaustion, xasperateion, and heat exhaustion.

When I arrived home, I felt in my pocket and realized in all the hubbub, I had not given the checkout girl my coupons which would have saved me 5-6 dollars.

Anyway, it was good to get home. I've decided she and I may have to stick with going to the fitness center together. I must be a loner when it comes to doing my thing at the store. Independence may be the correct term. I'm so use to doing things at my pace, on my terms I may not be a very good friend/group shopper.

On the otherhand, had we not gone to gether, what would or could I have blogged about today. Do you find shopping with others a fun experience? I don't mean window shopping, I mean having to do serious shopping? I'd like to know.

Grammyof13 - set in my ways (Oh Dear)

Mountain Music

2010-07-03T14:50:00.019-05:00

Having been in the house all week, we decided to have an afternoon out. There are several places we like to frequent (if frequent is the correct word for no more than we go any where!!!). One is Mountain View. A small town nestled in the Ozark Mountain range where the town comes alive on the week-end. The local establishment ranging mostly in the over 65 group gather in the town square and entertain the masses. I say masses for this reason. We could not find a place to park - cars, trucks, motorcycles line the street, fields, sidewalks, and parks. Driving slowly around the square and surrounding streets, we kept hoping someone was going to leave the coveted parking spot in walking range of all the groups. Yet at 9pm no one was moving. Mind you we could have parked 4 blocks from town and still have been entertained, as groups seem to find any spot, whether 15 feet from another group (doesn't matter) to set up their acoustic music. All the instruments of the mountains can be heard being picked and strummed by the best of the best.

I dare say none of them have ever made it famous or was on a record label, but no one noticed and no one seeks to purchase a CD once they finish performing. They come dressed in their overalls and farmer shirts, the ladies are in house dresses or even slacks but one can tell they are the salt of the earth. They may sing, and they may not. But for sure they are pickin' and grinnin' to the pleasure of the crowd who have gathered around setting on benches or their own lawn chairs they've brought with them in case there wasn't a free bench available.

Occasionally you will see a few cloggers who dance. They may have their "costume" on, and again they may be donned in the clothing they just happened to be in when the music got into their feet and they could stand still no longer.

No one has their card-board sign up announcing the name of their group. It really doesn't matter. They come together on Friday and Saturday evenings to make music together. Music mostly from yesteryear; days long gone. Personally I wonder if the crowd is not being taken back to a place in their memory when times were more simple, the world in less chaos, and right and wrong were more distinct with less gray surrounding them. They may sit and enjoy an ice cream cone or a bar-b-cue sandwich or they may chew on a blade of grass and listen.

Why don't we go more often? We asked ourselves that same question on our way home. We didn't come up with an answer. We talked about it however. Even thought we may go back to Hensley's Catfish Barn we found (on accident) in Heber Springs on our way to Mountain View. It was the best catfish (bar none) that we have had in our life-time. Not a bad price for people who are watching their pennys either and a buffet at that where we could go back time and again if we wanted more. They made money off us though as we didn't make but one trip.

Small world as we live in, we bumped into a niece and some friends from Mississippi. Now who would have known we would all meet in Mountain View the same night. It was a good visit with a promise to do it again.

Happy 4th to those who may be home reading this instead of meeting at the park for some hot dogs.

Grammyof13

What a day Holds. - Luck or Blessing

2010-06-30T12:07:00.001-05:00

I can continue with my last post, as the title holds true even now. We never know what a day will hold. Yesterday I got to the hospital to find out they were not able to find the source of the infection. After staying several hours with my husband, I decided to come home and take Cricket on his outside routine walk. Going back I was on the phone with my patient when the Doctor walked in. He took the phone and was able to communicate with both of us.

"From the CT scan and the chest X-ray along with the blood work, I am not finding anything significant. His white cells were elevated so we know there was an infection....." Long story short, we came home last night with an anti-biotic for the week.

Yesterday turned into a great day all in all - proving again the surprises a day will hold. I went to lunch with my daughter and her family who were leaving for home after their long vacation that just happened to bring them back by here. At the check out counter, my lunch was free (as I was caring for a patient in the Hospital). How neat is that?

At Kroger when I was waiting for his prescription to be filled, I shopped for a few needed supplies. I love home made Chicken Salad, so I needed celery. To the young man restocking the produce, I blessed him when he sneezed and that opened the door to more conversation. "I hate having to purchase a whole stalk of celery only to use a couple stalks", I managed to complain. We talked about the better buy, the celery hearts or a regular bunch/stalk. The unwrapped one is the on I chose, and he asked, "Is this the one you want?"

Thinking slowly I managed to say, "Yes this one will do" and I reached to place it in my basket. He reached for it, and with his knife he chopped off the leafy ends of it and told me to wait for him, he'd be right back.

Momentarily he returned with the bunch in a managers special bag marked .25 cents! I blessed him again and with "Have a good day," I went on my way.

The prescription was a $4. and that was an added blessing. Now I'm not sure the supposed luck of finding a penny with heads up - but that was the next surprise. I've read where finding pennies is a sign of a message from heaven. Can't imagine who in heaven would send me a message. Can't vouch for that being true either, but I never leave a penny on the ground. Regardless of how difficult it is for me to stoop down and retrieve a coin, I was determined to pick up that penny which was in the aisle where I checked out - right at my feet - waiting for me to pick it up. I placed it in my pocket, checked out and came home.

Do I feel lucky? Not necessarily. I do feel blessed however. Little things that might be passed off as luck are little reminders to me that I am cared for by the ONE who knows my every thought and intent as well as my needs. Often my need is to be reminded that He cares and has only the best planned for me and my future.

A discounted stalk of celery, a free meal or a inconspicuous penny (from heaven). They served their purpose.

Grammyof13

What a day Holds.

2010-06-29T10:58:00.000-05:00

I agree with those who knew already that any day may bring surprises. In fact when we put our feet on the floor the first thing in the morning, we should try (at least) to brace ourselves for whatever the day holds. Among the good pleasant times, more serious time scan emerge.

My husband has not been feeling well for a few days, just listless to the point of not paying much attention to Cricket (his 4-legged child). Yesterday I insisted he see his primary care and as the Lord would have it we got an appointment at 3:30. By six o'clock he was in the hospital and will be for a few days. It seems he has an intestinal infection - or at least that is the beginning point of the tests.

Thus the reason behind my first statement. One never knows what a day holds. One thing I cling to however is that I know Who holds the day. The immediate future, and the future period. Therefore I take the joys with the serious times and get them balanced so that one doesn't override the other.

Grammyof13

Old Houses.

2010-06-22T23:25:00.001-05:00

We are home from the country. Always a long trip home, but it was worth every mile. The Family reunion had a few missing, but for those who did come, we had a great time. We managed to get our feet into the creek to cool off from the 98 degree weather and have a lot of laughs to boot. I do declare hearing my nieces and sisters tell their stories to catch us up on their life can be comical. So we find ourselves laughing with each other.

Daddy felt like coming and stayed most of the time with us. His eye sight is so poor, he didn't know anyone unless they introduced themselves. Yesterday my husband and I signed him out at the nursing home, and took him out to eat. His favorite place is Captain "D"s, so we drove to the nearby town of Clarksville and had a picnic of fish and chips. I asked him if he wanted ice cream, and with an affirmative answer we found a DQ. We took the long way home so he could enjoy the ride and being away from his room. He so enjoyed it so much, he is planning a fishing trip next time we come to see him. We promised him we would do just that. He even has the place in mind where he wants to go; on a big lake. 'nuff said!

Cricket had a traumatic experience while we were gone. My precious neighbor Ruth and her son wanted to keep him for us. And when her son was bringing him back home - he was mauled by a pack of dogs. It scared them beyond reasoning. However had the situation been reversed, I'd have re-acted the same. A Rottweiler dog nipped him under his front legs at the chest, causing several stitches to get him fixed up again. Needless to say he was so happy to see us today when we arrived home. They had brought him home and he was waiting for us inside the house. One happy little 4-legged friend couldn't be still.

It will take me a few days to get into routine of being home again. It is always great to visit my sisters. Got to see all of them, spent the few nights with Martha, and had a great cook-out at Nina's, enjoying her little grand daughter in the process. And always their flower gardens are magnificent.

Also went into the old home place and picked up a few items that became mine when we started dividing Mama's things. I've said good bye to the house, but not to the land. My creative juices get to flowing when I go there, sit on the porch swing and listen to the past call out to me. It is a house without love - abandoned in so many ways. It still has furniture and looks as though someone lived there once - but it has been closed up for at least a year and is showing signs of being alone with no one to care. I hate that feeling when I pass any old house that has been vacated for a long time. For all intents and purposes it dies. A house must have life from someone who cares to make it a home. Furniture does not make a house a home. It is people, who love, laugh, live and care that make the walls ring with life. Smoke coming from a chimney and a child on a bike as well as a dog chasing a ball and a flower bush close by. Otherwise, without these a house dies and even with curtains still hanging on the windows, those curtains cannot give it the look of being cared for.

I asked Daddy if he wanted to go to the farm, but it seems he has already said good bye to it as well. Even though he has wanted to go back home to live, he has accepted it will not happen. Time and chance happens to all of us. A Time to be born, and a time to die, the book of Ecclesiastes tells us. So as with people, it could be applied to old houses.

What a thought.

Grammyof13

Going Home.

2010-06-14T23:04:00.000-05:00

June means many things at our house and in our family as well. Of course there is Father's Day. Not many can say at 70 years of age, they still have their father. Daddy was 32 when I was born, so calculate his age today. He will be 102 in October if the Lord lets him live that long.

June is also my birthday, which I've already established in my last post. It was a great birthday, celebrated well. Every friend on my facebook replied with good wishes. Then got to Church for Wednesday night bible Study and was surprised with a gift, plus cake and fruit. Now how sweet is that? I heard from all my sisters, and all my children. Can't get any better (I don't think).

Then Father's Day week-end we have our annual Tanner Family Reunion. It is a pilgrimage of sorts, for me anyway. Our gathering place was once the land where my grandparents lived where the spring branch and the rock creek meet below the Long Branch Road. The now famous Tenn. flood kinda left the pavilion and park with a lot of debris, so we are going to meet at one of My sisters house.

Going to Martha's house is like going home. I will dread the day when I can't go to Martha's house, for she is my touch of home. My reminder that I still have roots and a place to call home. My children don't have that - in that - we have moved from where they were raised and now the place belongs to someone else. I didn't realize that when we moved from Little Rock. It took me awhile to realize how it is important to me to "go home" occasionally. Even though Mama is gone, and Daddy doesn't live there anymore - going to Martha's or Deans is still getting to go home.

Dean. Have I mentioned her before? She and I are only 18 months apart in age, but she is such a gracious hostess, it is always great to set my feet under her table, or sleep in her spare bedroom. She and Martha both, have a flower garden to die for. I could really do some serious writing just setting in the serenity of their beautiful gardens.

Back to June. Our church has a 40 acre camp site in the Ozark Mountains. Each year since we moved to Ark. in 1976, we have attended and even directed a camp. My children have been the directors for the past two weeks, and I hear it is going great. My days of working in the camping ministry is about over. I do manage to attend the Ladies week-end retreat in April. I hope to always do that.

So much for my musings tonight. I'm looking forward to our trip to Tenn on Friday this week. We always enjoy getting to set our feet on the land of my birth. Going Home. Has a nice ring to it, don't you think?

Grammyof13

I am blessed with Life.

2010-06-08T11:58:00.000-05:00

I'm slow getting into summer it seems. By the time I realize it is summer, fall will be here and the cycle will start again. I did make it out to the Deck this morning. The squirrels making that sucking noise with their mouth, made me look up to see what in the world it was. Only to discover the squirrel, making the sound and moving his tail in rhythm.

Tomorrow is my birthday - 70 years since I was born. Where did the time go? I still play around in those years of the 40's & 50's when life wasn't so complicated. Care free would describe my life then. There was a world war going on, but I didn't notice. The worry of the dark times was left up to the adults of the day.

Then came the decade of the 60's when I started my family. Now realizing I wasn't quite ready for marriage and family, I see a few bobbles and stumbles I made, but for the most part it was a busy time, fun times and overall a blessed time. The four of them turned out well, so I'm not complaining. They have made me very happy and given me a total of 13 grands to bring sunshine into this era of my life.

Hubs and I went to see our oldest great grand son Will play ball last night. His schedule for games hasn't worked well with our schedule, but I was determined to see him play before the season is over. Sure enough, he showed us what he could do. Hit the ball each time, and made several runs. My love for sports especially softball (in my young years) gives me a sense of pride to see the love continue. I believe they have to like the sport to do so well at it. Little Alex (whom we saw play last week) had a game on another field at the same time as his brother. He came away from his game equally excited as before declaring, "we got a new high score". That was important to him. His eyes danced as he shared the play that got a man out. That was cool. He helped win the game! Will on the other hand has little to say, however he knew Papa and Grammy had come to watch him play and he did us proud.

I'm making jelly today. My second batch. Looking for plums and eventually peaches to make more.
It is hot here, I thank the Lord for a cool house.

Stay cool, and drink plenty of water is my advice to you for the day.\

Grammyof13