Coffee Tyme

New URL, same blog

2010-10-01T20:53:00.002-04:00

http://coffee-tyme2.blogspot.com/

That's where you'll find me from now on. It's amazing that I was even able to post this, as I've been having trouble with user names/passwords since getting a gmail email account...

See you there!

How I Spent My Summer

2010-09-30T14:34:00.008-04:00

It's started innocently enough. Rebekah graduated from college. But she stayed there to be in a Shakespeare-ish comedy. Josh and I drove down to see it and then fetch her and her worldly goods back here to the hill. And that's all I remember. The following is what one might hear a sleeping person mumble, and thereby communicate how they spent their summer:

Mmmmph... Clean out the attic? David - are you serious? GARAGE SALE!? (low growl...) I guess we should... OK, let's see what we have here. No one wants this old thing. Hand me that bowl. What's that in the bottom of it? Spices? No... mouse poop! Get the Lysol wipes! ... (shudder, roll over, heavy sigh)... Boxes, boxes, too many boxes. Too many old things.... spinster shoes, broken toys... what's in this box? Not that! No - not them - BEANIE BABIES! They're haunting me...

The subject goes understandably comatose for two hours. Then, she stirs.

All right, now where are all the stickers? Ok, let's price this vase at $3.50. Well, maybe $2.75. Hmmmmm... (writes on imaginary sticker) "Free - no returns!" ... I can't believe we spent a weekend selling stuff and only made $70. And that's only because we offered a free meal if they bought something. So, with the money we spent on the food.... we lost seventeen cents.... now we gotta haul most of it to the Goodwill. (rolling over, kicking off covers)

Later in the night -

When will they get here? We haven't seen them since Abby's wedding! (snore)... Hi! (hug, kiss, hug) How are you all? Feed, serve, feed, serve, fetch this, fetch that. Feed again! Now let's sit and chat. What? You have to leave? (sniff, sniff) ... (low growl)... I'm gonna make David fix the meals next time...(subject flails at husband)

That's all the mumbling a person can do in one night. So I'll wake up.

What else did I do with my summer? At the end of July, I accompanied Noah to Suzuki Institute. This is basically an intense learning camp for stringed instrument students, in which they are in back-to-back classes all day, breaking only for lunch. I chose a percussion elective for him to give him a break. He liked that class most of all. In the end, he was playing his cello 4-5 hours daily, including evening practice at home. He played with a youth orchestra for the first time, and was complemented on his reading skills.

In mid-August, I worked for a week in my step-mother's law office. I filled in for the receptionist. This would have been cushy, but like an idiot, I mentioned that I knew some Word, and was quickly put to task. It was interesting though, to copy out a deed, and I learned some new Word skills from my step-mother along the way.

The next week I spent what I had just earned on homeschooling curriculum. I worked almost as many hours choosing curriculum as I did at the receptionist job.

And now I am happily homeschooling Noah with a combination of Sonlight (History, Geography, and Language Arts), Teaching Textbooks (Math) and A Beka (Bible and Science) I think Noah likes science least of all, and history most. I love that he asks, "Can we read more?" after every history book-reading.

And then - I count this a gift from God - we went to Chincoteague and Assateague Islands, and kayaked, swam, dug in sand, petted island ponies, climbed the lighthouse, biked around Chincoteague, watched fighter-jets zoom about, and generally had a good time. David's aunt and uncle put us up for three nights, fed us, and showed us what to do and where to go. We had a blast!

I swapped out Misty of Chincoteague for Ginger Pye in Noah's Read-alouds. We're enjoying reading about the places we been to!

And it gets better - our Sarah Jane came home for her birthday. It was so nice to have her here. We threw her a party, took her to see Rebekah at the theme park she works at, and worked along-side her as she made Coconut Chicken. And then she flew back to her hubby.

June Cleaver day

2010-04-29T18:44:00.002-04:00

I felt like June Cleaver today. I made cookies, cleaned the tub and its accessories, did laundry, and made a really interesting meal, Moroccan Orange Chicken with Couscous. I did all dishes between and after each mess/meal. My house is in hand. It feels good!

However, when it comes to relaxing this evening, I'm not like June. While she'd spend the evening darning the Beaver's socks as Ward reads interesting news articles to her, I'd like to watch a psychological thriller, like The Hand That Rocks the Cradle, or What Lies Beneath. But it's CSI night, and I'll be watching that with David. Actually, they're pretty interesting, if I can endure the icky body stuff...

A typical evening

2010-04-28T19:50:00.002-04:00

Noah's watching an old Johnny Quest episode. I really liked this show as a girl; David loved it! He wanted to grow up into Dr. Benton Quest, a scientist-explorer. (He kinda did.) I wanted to be Hadji. (Or at least a tom-boy version of him.)

This is part of our average evening. After dinner, Noah does homework, then cello practice at seven. Following a good thirty minutes of practice, I give him free time til eight. That's when we head upstairs for tooth-brushing and a bath (if need be, about three times a week). From 8:15-8:30, I read to him. We wrap up with prayers and kisses and I put on his Suzuki CD. I try to be out of the room by 8:35. (He has to rise at 6:30am.)

Well, Johnny Quest is over. Time for the bedtime ritual. (And then comes Mom's free-time!)

They (didn't) call me Stephanie

2010-04-27T22:41:00.004-04:00

I had a colonoscopy this morning. That could be my main topic. But no, I learned something more interesting today. (The colonoscopy's findings were normal, by the way.)

Just before I was knocked out for the surgery, the doctor and I found we had the same problem: we were given first names that were not used. We were called by our middle names. Like P. John Smith, instead of Peter J. Smith. And all our lives we've heard, "What's the P for?" This required a lengthy explanation that was fun to give the first three times. And then, like a woman asked - for the twentieth time - what her due date is, it got old. But pregancy ends. This doesn't.

I told Dad about this, mentioning the middle names of my doctor and his twin. They were from a 1960's TV show, and Dad laughed at this. Then I asked him, "Who came up with the name, *******?"

"I did." he said, and went on, " I thought it was a very nice name. You see, there was this girl down the street named *******. She was a tomboy - she could play baseball as good as or better than any of the boys in the neighborhood. And when you're eight or nine, that's pretty impressive. You hold a girl like that in high regard." Her last name was Gotloeb. So, here, after all this time thinking I was named the feminine version of my grandfather's name, I wasn't. I was named after a Jewish tomboy my dad knew as a kid. What a sweet little nugget of family history that was. I'm so glad I asked!

As for the riddle of my burbling bowels, that has yet to be worked out. I've been having regular diarrhea, stomach cramping and bloating for a month now. I had such painful cramps a week after this started that I went to the doctor. I thought it was a virus. But he decided I should see a GI doctor. That Dr wanted to start the investigation with a colonoscopy. Oddly, an x-wray on the day of the awful pain showed that I was "extremely" constipated. I will insert a visual now, to show how bad it was, even though I was also having diarrhea at the time.

See that lavender-colored snaky thing, with the bumps? That's the colon, ending in the anus. See the wiggly thing on the bottom left, at the beginning of the colon? That's the appendix. Now, go up to the first bend in the colon, and about 4-5 bumps across. That's where I was backed up to. That's "extremely constipated." The GP's main concern was that I might have a partial blockage, which only allowed liquid through, thus the diarrhea. But the GI doc thought not. And I can tell you, after doing "bowel prep" last night, I most certainly am not constipated.

I will see my GI doc soon, and discuss my situation further then. Meanwhile, my internet research brings me to two possibilities : Irritable Bowel Syndrome or Celiac Disease. Here are my syptoms:

Diahhrea
Constipation
Bloating, cramping stomach pain
Unexplained weight loss over the course of nine months

It seems some foods "trigger" my stomach aches -

pizza
lentils
onions

I've begun to avoid gas-producing foods, such as broccoli, cauliflower, beans, and cabbage. I'm so afraid of getting sick, I've just written them off. I cut dairy out 3 months ago, to see if I was lactose-intolerant, and my terrible gassiness stopped. So that's something.

I just wish I had some answers, though I am very relieved I don't have polyps or diverticulosis. I love nuts, and couldn't eat them if I had divert.

2010-04-25T11:59:00.003-04:00

Noah performed at our city orchestra's music hall this weekend. We were all very excited to hear our little virtuoso! He clowned around with his friends before the lights went down, but then sat remarkably still. He waited and listened to the violins, the violas, and the violins again. And then - it was time for the cellos! Up he marched with the other children, finding his instrument, safely parked where he left it. Out with the endpin, up with the bow, and waiting for his teacher's prompt to begin... he was off! Bowing away in unison with the others, some older, some younger. They were all very serious, to be sure. And how we all clapped when they finished! Soon, all the strings were on, singing - occasionally squeeking - us into swells of parental pride. Were there ever such talented children anywhere else on the face of the earth?

And then we went to Friendly's, where Noah appropriately dripped chocolate sauce onto his dress shirt. After all, he had kept it clean and tucked in until then.

Fans, left to right, Aunt Bev, David, Ben, Papaw, Bubbe, and Nanny

Pre-concert silliness calms the nerves. L-R: Isaiah, Noah, and Jamison

Serious musicians

Noah with Miss Barb

Proud parents, David and Jill, with their small cellist

a floral walkabout

2010-04-22T08:21:00.005-04:00

I had the most pleasant time with blooms and foliage yesterday. I had to capture the joy...

My neighbors azaleas. I think this is the best color. It's old-fashioned, like my heart.

Again, the neighbor's flowers. I don't know their name, but they were so sweet and unpretentious, I had to add them to my collection.

My clematis, not sure of the variety, but I like them because they remind me of pink dogwood.
They have overtaken one of our mission arborvitae. I think it is demurely pleased to be so elegantly clothed.

More clematis...

Clematis buds, quietly waiting for their debut...

Couldn't resist one more shot. Isn't the little purple bud dear?

Holly - their blossoms, so often overlooked, deserve som attention. Faint pink and white, jutting their pollen out on stalks. Come, bees, for a tasty appetizer!

I always enjoy these bright, white little flowers. They remind me of edelweis. They're probably weeds, which is all the more reason to capture them. Persistent and lovely - shouldn't we take a lesson?

Ah, the majestic purple iris. This has been one of my favorite annuals, since 1986. It required a showcase indoors.

March 2010

2010-04-20T10:29:00.002-04:00

David and I were married 25 years ago this last March. Our family threw us a party to celebrate, complete with a silver-trimmed cake and many silver gifts.

Sarah, Jill, David, and Rebekah, March 2010

A sweet sentimental gift from my mom - the sterling silver candlesticks she used for about 40 years.

Then a caravan of us headed down to VA to see Rebekah in the play, An Inspector Calls. It was a morality play set in about 1912 Britain. It was so good! Of course, Rebekah shined! Afterwards, her director and teacher for 4 years took David and me aside. He told us that she was the best acting student he'd ever had, that there was never anything artificial when she was in character. Wow!

Our lovely Rebekah, as Sheila, a newly-engaged upper-class young lady

The adoring fans - L-R: Nanny (Winifred), Papaw (John), Ben, Rebekah, David, Jill, Noah, Grandpa (Gary), Erin, and Grandma Brenda

2010-04-17T22:53:00.003-04:00

What a busy month we've had! It all started with Noah's Book 1 Suzuki cello recital. I enjoyed getting the house ready for this musical soiree. I laid out cookies, fresh vegetables, nuts, crackers, and hot herbal tea, as well as coffee. I also collected various bloom from our yard, and put them in the candle vases I have. I thought they looked very nice for the occasion. His teacher, Miss Barb arrived early so that she and Noah could brush up on his encore, as duet of French Folk Song. Soon all the guests arrived - David's parents, "Nanny" and "Papaw, my parents, "Bubbe," "Grandpa" and "Grandma Brenda." Also, my sister, Gayle, her son, Michael (Noah's best friend), my brother, Steve, and my two little sisters, Erin and Robin, plus their guys, Brian and BJ. And of course David, Ben, and me. So it was a nice gathering, but not overwhelming. And of course, we were an easy crowd to work, clapping for most any little thing. And some big things, like Minuet #2, or Happy Farmer.
Next came Easter, and then a very big event: Noah's learning to ride a bike! He and David put it all together, and then, 2 weeks later, off came the training wheels! Noah learned in a snap. He's enjoying his bike so much now. I just took him to the park today.

In the midst of all the busy-ness, I did get a picture of the back yard from our balcony. I'll nver tire of all the color - the dogwoods, redbuds, and azaleas all blooming at the same time.

Mighty dog

2010-02-24T15:56:00.002-05:00

Here's Cosmo. He often looks out the window this way, scanning for interlopers. I feel so much safer knowing that my whimpering little 20-pound dog is protecting me.

Diet

2010-02-22T08:39:00.003-05:00

David and I are on the Mayo Clinic Diet. This means:

No sugar
Whole grains
LOTS of fruit and veggies
Moderate meat
No eating in front of the TV
Regular exercise

The ban on sugar has been the hardest. I am using Splenda, but as David hates artificial sweeteners, he is at a loss. He won't budge on iced-tea, his "elixor of life." But as it only has a scant 1/4 cup of sugar per 1/2 gallon, I don't think it's too too bad. The example couple on youtube lost about 9 lbs each after the first two weeks. I hope that happens for us!

Rebekah came home for the weekend, bringing her "biggest fan," Krystal. She had a local audition, which she did well at. We had fun on Saturday. We went to a snobby little tea shop, and then an artsy gift shop my friend, Faith, had shown me a year ago. We especially liked the Alice-in-Wonderland type furniture.

Shrinking

2010-02-18T14:15:00.005-05:00

My family is shrinking. Sarah's married off, and Rebekah and Josh are away at college. It's just the four of us now - David, Ben, Noah, and me. And of course the dogs, who count for one adult human being when it comes to food and mess-making. So I guess it's more like five.

I put on a meal and find I have leftovers. I make a batch of cookies, and there are still some in the cookie jar three days later. The kitchen stays a little cleaner. David and I can have private conversations more often. The house is oddly quiet much of the time, especially if Ben is out with friends. It's weird. I don't know if I like it. Well, maybe a little.

I helped with Noah's Valentine's party yesterday. There is something endearing about second-graders passing paper hearts with clothes-pins in their mouths, to win a game. Or holding hands in a circle, singing "Make new friends, but keep the old, one is silver and the other gold..." Later, they were anxious to decorate little bags and fill each other's with Valentines.

Tomorrow I help with the bowling field-trip. This will be entertaining. I'm bringing my camera.

Off to Illinois!

2010-01-12T22:34:00.006-05:00

Sarah and Praveen returned from their honeymoon on Sunday, opened some gifts, and headed to Illinois Monday. I miss them soooooo much!

Back from DisneyWorld

Time to move into their own little nest.

Praveen and Ben

Rebekah, Sarah, and Jill

All done packing

2010-01-06T23:44:00.003-05:00

I feel so good right now - I just finished packing Sarah's breakables. Becka packed her clothing. I thought we were almost done until I picked up some dishes from my mom, thinking they were ready to roll. But then I checked them, and they weren't, having been stacked without any packing between. I made good use of the bubble-wrap my sister gave me from her job. Good stuff that. What did folks do in the 1930's when they moved? Probably packed their breakables in their clothing.

Well, anyway, she and Praveen are ready to go to Illinois. I guess this packing was the last step in the wedding/move. I will miss Sarah sooooo much! And I will miss getting to know Praveen better faster. But over time, we'll get together. I suppose Sarah and I will talk on the phone a lot, but it's not the same...

Becka and Ben are bothering the daylights out of Cosmo. He's sleeping and they keep whining at him, "Cosmo, wake up and play! You've been sleeping all day!" Then Ben talks in Cosmo's voice which is male, but kinda whimpy.

I'm done with my job on Sunday. So Becka and I need to boogie on over to Banana Republic before I lose my 50% discount. She's really impressed that I even want to do that: "We never go shopping - that's like a normal mother-daughter thing." It's funny. Ever since I started working this job, whenever I fold the girls' clothing, I think of Becka, and wish I'd been able to take her shopping more as a little girl. But that seemed to be my mother-in-law's thing. We were always strapped, and Nanny enjoyed taking the girls out shopping. If it wasn't for her, they'd have had half the clothing, and most of it from Walmart. So they're grateful! I remember once, I did buy brand new dresses for the girls. It was very special, and they were about $20 each. I remember putting them in those coodinated dresses and feeling so good about buying them. The girls looked so cute in them! I'll have to find a picture of them. They weren't fussy. More like playdresses. They were striped and had appliques of little kitties or some such on them. It's funny the things we remember.

Brrrrrrrrrrr!

2010-01-05T09:25:00.002-05:00

It is SO cold outside. I think it's in the low-20's. The poor cat. As soon as I took the dogs out, there she was, mewing pathetically for some food to help keep her belly warm.

Rebekah is still in bed, and I need to get in that room and pack what's left of Sarah's stuff. I'm hoping to get to my friend, Faith's, house around 11, so I may just invade the warm sleepiness of that sanctuary, with disregard for the zzzzzz's in the air...

My seasonal retail job is soon ending, and I'm glad. But it's helped me lose about 10 lbs, so that's the downside. I was 163 in the summer. Now I'm 149. I'll need to get walking every day. Maybe I can find an accountablitly partner...

I'm pretty much recovered from the wedding. I hope Sarah and Praveen are having a nice time, despite the cool weather they didn't expect on their honeymoon.

A Wedding to Remember

2010-01-03T10:15:00.006-05:00

Sarah and Praveen are now man and wife! The wedding was beautiful. They used some of the vows from Pride and Prejudice, from the 1600's. Sarah's harp teacher played for them, as a gift. Sarah came down the aisle to Arabesque, after the bridesmaids walked down to Pachelbel's Canon. Praveen and Noah wore tradional Indian outfits called sherwanis. And Sarah said a sweet phrase in Hindi to Praveen.

Sarah, Praveen, and I cried a little. I found out later that at least two of my friends did too. Rebekah, David, and Adele choked up a little during toasts (and Adele's poem, written just for the occasion).

My sister, Gayle, did the photography. The reception was very classy, and the dancing was a blast! Even some of my quiter friends couldn't resist a little disco action. At one point, I saw my mom and Ben cutting the rug, and later my mother-in-law was teaching me how to swing! Sarah and Praveen danced to All I Ask of You from Phantom of the Opera, and then David and Sarah waltzed to On the Beautiful Blue Danube. David and I got a couple of dances in too - I especially enjoyed one to What a Wonderful World. The evening went so fast - soon we were throwing birdseed at the happy couple and off they went! Family and friends pitched in to clean up, and we all dragged ourselves home. We ended up with a LOT of leftover cake. We pretty much crashed upon arriving home... Noah peeled off his sherwani, and crawled right into bed. He had danced a lot, and told me, while resting between dancing, that, "This is the BEST wedding ever! I can't wait for their anniversary party!" Here are some snapshots I caught:

quietly making popcorn balls

2009-12-23T15:55:00.006-05:00

I'm enjoying a rare moment of quiet in the house. All of my kids are out and about - Sarah's at work. Becka, Josh, and Ben are at the mall, and my friend, Paula, took Noah along with her kids to the nearby science musuem. Not a creature is stirring, not even the dogs, but I soon will be! I just came home from work and put my feet up. I'm waiting for them to feel a little better so that I can make some popcorn balls! My mom always stuffed our stockings with popcorn balls, but when I had kids I couldn't find them anywhere. It only occured to me this year, when most of my kids are 17+, that I could make my own popcorn balls. I searched the net and found a recipe that calls for microwaved popcorn. I can't wait to try it out. I think I'm going to add 1/2 tsp of vanilla, as other recipes read.

Well, that's all the writing energy I have...

Christmas and the wedding are just around the corner!

2009-12-13T09:14:00.004-05:00

Well, it's less than three weeks away. My baby girl will be a married woman.

We picked out flowers on Monday. The DJ, photographer (my sister, Gayle), and the videographer are in position. The guests have all RSVP'd. We'll have about 80 folks coming, which will make for much fun, but not an overwhelming amount of people for the couple to really visit with.

My job at Old Navy is not so bad. The women's clearance area can be overwhelming, especially when I am "running." This means running to things back to the floor from the fitting room, but NOT tidying up stuff laying around, tangled together, half hanging off hangers. The messy stuff is maddening to me because I'm not to clean it up when I'm a "runner." Running also entails bringing items back to fitting for customers, such as jeans in a different size. The fitting room attendent and the runner communicate via walkie-talkies.

Another task at Old Navy is RAD-ing - tidying up. RAD stands for Ready All Day. I like doing this more than running, as I feel we're getting things in order. All over the store are tables of sale items in disarray, loosely tangled, often two feet high, and spilling out onto the floor. My co-workers call such a table a "hot mess." It reminds me of a tossed salad. I don't often work the "cash-wrap" (cash register) as I haven't had a chance to learn the many different ways to ring/do returns. I do well in the fitting room, and working with customers on the floor, while radding or running. It's not difficult. And I get a lot of exercise. I'm working about 17-23 hours a week.

Becka comes home next weekend. We're holding off putting up our tree til then. We'd wait for Praveen too, but he doesn't come in til the 24th.

We're putting up Nanny's and Papaw's spinning fake tree today. Nanny loves it. It's flashy and electric. This reminds me of the time I picked out the perfect gift for Nanny, years ago. It was an electric miniature ice-skating pond, with little people whose skates were magnetized. A track under the "ice" moved them along. I brought it home from Ames and showed it to David. The low-budget motor was noisy, and David dismissed it as cheesy. "But I know your mom will love it!" Nope, back it went. As soon as the after-Christmas sales began, Nanny was out in the thick of it, competing for the best deals. I remember her excitedly meeting us at the door one day not long after, "Come and look what I got on sale at Ames!" And there it was, show-cased right in the middle of her little lit village, fake snow carefully placed around - the fake ice-pond. What a feeling of satisfaction I felt when I gave David that, "I told you so!" look.

Day off

2009-11-12T10:06:00.004-05:00

I have off today, and that means I can go about some errands that I've put off over the last 2 days. But first, I'm waiting for the Princess Bride to arise, so that we can go over more wedding details. And so I can show her the sweet little flower girl shoes I found at Payless for $10! (And they had both sizes for her flower girls, in white - unsual for this time of year.) I am so thankful to the Lord. I've been praying over this wedding since I found out about it. And one thing after another is falling into place, affordably. All that's left is -

Bridal shower, but that is under way
The rehearsal dinner, but we do have loose plans in place
Centerpieces for the reception tables
Church decorations
Flower girl baskets
Ring bearer pillow

I'll probably find the last two items on ebay, as I did the flower girl dresses.

Sarah's dress is now being hemmed and bustled. I can't wait to see her in it! Praveen will wear an Indian outfit, and Noah's will be very similar to his. The groomsmen will wear tuxedos, but I'm not sure of the style. Praveen and Sarah's best friend, Adele's husband, Cameron, are working on them.

We sent the invitations out a couple weeks ago, and have gotten some responses. Here are some pictures:

My mother-in-law, Sarah, and I are going to see Rebekah in her musical this weekend. I can't wait, especially as she has two solos! Josh took the train to see her last weekend, which really meant a lot to her. They spent the weekend together, pal-ing around. She told me her friends really liked him.

I'm really looking forward to having the whole family together for Thanksgiving. Josh will stay on til Jauary 3rd. He's taking a train home and back. He seems to like this method of travel, mainly because he can bring more stuff along, cheaper. I feel sorry for him though, as he'll spend 17-18 hours in a coach seat. (I have urged him to walk around every few hours, to prevent blood clots.) He and I checked out getting him a bunk on a train, and found that the cheapest one was $350. That's on top of the $300 to take the train, round trip. Oh well, he's young, and doesn't seem to mind. I imagine he's got him nose in a book the whole time.

Precious Moments

2009-10-16T09:04:00.003-04:00

I had such a good time with Noah last night. We made pumpkin pies and then, while they baked, we sat down to go over his memory verse, Psalm 1:5. (He's learning the whole chapter, verse by verse, for school.) I was so touched, as we cuddled together, to listen to his sweet child-voice, reading, "Therefore the ungodly shall not stand in the judgment, nor sinners in the congregation of the righteous." He had to practice the word congregation, but got it down. These are the high points of parenthood. Just when I've tired of scolding him, or making him sit through a cello practice, this kind of moment makes it all worth it.

Wuthering Heights, a lesson

2009-10-10T08:03:00.003-04:00

Wuthering Heights is a magnetic story. I watched it recently, and it has stayed with me. (I should read the book, but I'm too hyper. My morning Bible time is my only reading time nowadays, though I have read a few good books over the past 4 years.)

How sad it was to watch as one misunderstanding after another kept a loving young couple apart. How many times do we misunderstand one another? For lack of knowledge, relationships are strained and sometimes fold altogether. Grudges last for years. I've actually watched as loving relatives entered in to intense grudges. One of my cousins didn't attend our aunt's funeral. And of course, she received no inheritnce from that aunt. All because of a battle over money. Of course, it's a long story, but basically one of choosing sides in another family feud. This blew me away. It was a quite a lesson to me.

I've had my share of conflicts - misunderstandings, really - but thankfully, there has been resolution. One resolution, however, has been to stop speaking to a certain family member at the once-a-year party we both attend. I endured years of inconsiderate and disrespecful behavior from this person, and finally told them off this past spring. So we didn't speak at the last gathering. I did try to phone the person the next morning, to invite them for breakfast, my goal being to reconcile with them, even if we had to "agree to disagree." I had to leave a message for them, and they never called back. I know the message was delivered. I don't think the person wanted to be with me, at least not yet. But I knew I had done the right thing in extending the olive branch. I've done what I can. It's now up to them to make the next move. And I'm OK with that. If I died today, I know I am ready concerning that matter.

I learned so much from Wuthering Heights. The most important thing was this: be honest, with yourself and then those around you. Sometimes what seems the safe bet is not, and will haunt you in the end. I have brought much discomfort on myself by staying silent when I should have spoken up. I should have said, "Ouch!" Because I didn't for years, I was taken for granted and mistreated. But now I have taken the "kick-me" sign off. I am not telling everyone in my life off, but a few needed it. Generally, I've found out who loves me and who doesn't, a test of sorts. It's actually a relief. Know I know the truth about others, and they know the truth about me. This is the foundation a healthy relationship is built on. And some relationships are never going to be "healthy." This is when you use the "light and polite" tactic. And remove yourself from heated arguments.

Date night!

2009-10-09T18:26:00.002-04:00

David and I are going on a date! He's in the shower as I type, while I have set the coffee-maker to start brewing at 8pm. It's going to be a "budget date," meaning we'll drive around, share our thoughts with each other, maybe comment on the architecture of various homes we'll pass, and end up at Block Buster. This is where we'll seek a "floor" movie in accordance with our free non-new release coupon. (Frugal-snaps!) Then we'll go home, cuddle - coffees in hands - and lose ourselves in some ficticious person's life. We might have a little snack, like the fudge David's parents recently brought him from New England. Or some of the white cake Sarah made on Wednesday.

Sarah's at work right now. I would like to pop in on her and see her in action - or at least at that central desk where all the nurses seem busy but chatty. I'd love to watch her insert an IV -

*OK - We interrupt this train of thought to comment on a certain noise which came from the couch. I never knew, until now, that dogs can make a little squeek when they pass gas. I thought they needed buns to make some noise. And who was it that caught my ears? Well, Cosmo, of course. Maisy is much too lady-like for such uncouth behavior. She prefers to belch. Now back to your regularly scheduled programming...*

Now , where was I? Oh yes - Sarah in her scrubs. I can just see her now, busily cleaning some sort of liquid off someone or something, or perhaps adjusting a drip of some sort. She'd be smiling, attentive, making the patients feel important, cared about. I know her patients' feelings and comfort mean a lot to her.

Well, the shower has ended. Time to fly!

Stops along the way to a wedding

2009-10-03T09:07:00.009-04:00

I have found myself the personal secretary of a very excited bride - my daughter, Sarah. Following Sarah's master plan, it has been my pleasure to assist in searching for a church, a reception place, and a pastor. I also found out the details of securing the marriage license.

As for the marriage license, it must be used within three to sixty days of getting it. Praveen's flights here need to coinside with the days and hours the courthouse is open. As he's coming in about seventy days before the big day, for Sarah's friend's wedding (the first America wedding he'll see), that won't work. They'll have to wait until his next flight in - about a week before their wedding. They'll pay $50 cash for this special piece of paper. Though it seems the dresses, rings, church and reception are the biggest considerations, nothing's happening without the marriage license, so it was a relief to get that all figured out.

Finding a church has been a challenge, but one I'm especially enjoying. My mom went along on one of my look-sees. This was special for both of us, as we reminisced along the way, and bounced around ideas after seeing different ones. I find the churches through referrals from friends, or simply driving around to spot them. I then set up appointments, take pictures and gather info papers, and present them to Sarah later. I've gotten into a couple of churches by just poking around open ones, looking for secretaties. They're pretty good-natured about it. Once, a kindly pastor showed me his church's sanctuary. As Sarah works 7 - 3:30 most days, this helps her to screen out the ones she doesn't like. She was able to see a couple on Thursday, her day off. (We also put down a deposit on the reception place that day.)

Sarah prefers the more ornate churches, but is interested in one that is more simple in decor. It is an historic church, greystone outside, with a simple white spire. The inside is tasteful, with a neutral-colored sancuary. The sanctuary has many tradionital touches - wooden pews, partly painted white, and stained glass windows, presented as gridded double windows, no biblical scenes. But the stained glass is gentle, even romantic - pastels blended together - blues, purples, and pinks. The shape of the sanctuary is rectangular, also traditional, making for a nice walk down the aisle. The other churches in the running are more traditional inside: vaulted ceilings, shield-shaped stained-glass windows, depicting biblical scenes and characters. This is more Sarah's preference, so I suspect she'll choose one of these. All of the possible churches are within a 15-minute drive of the reception place, a definate benefit.

The reception place is really nice, Victorian-themed. There's even a fancy private parlor for the bridal party to pause in before going into the large reception room. The facility just put down both new carpet and a dance floor in the room we'll use. The carpet will go nicely with the plum bridemaids' gowns Sarah decided on a couple days ago. Also, we'll save money on centerpieces, as the facility provides large waterbowls as well as brass oil-lamps, as well as mirror tiles. The linens and dishes are lovely and elegant. Linens, dishes, and centerpiece items (not flowers or candles) are included in the very reasonable price. Winter is the off-season for banquet halls, so they're more inclined to give good deals.

And now let's talk of gowns! Sarah, Rebekah, and I went to David's Bridal over a month ago, thinking it would be one of many trips in search of her wedding gown. After trying on 3-4 gowns within her price range, we sorted through the racks again, looking for the perfect, but afforable dress. Rebekah pulled out a fluffy one, and soon the girls were packed into the dressing room to get Sarah into it. When she emerged, she looked like a snow princess. It fit her like a dream - it was the one! Though Sarah and I did appropriately waffle a bit, Rebekah pronouced it the ONE. And so came the fussing, trying it with attachable straps, discussion of hemming and bussling. (I have to find a seamstress this week.) Sarah bought it, and after the salesgirl, Hannah, somehow contained it in a long bag, we rushed it to Nanny's for safe-keeping. (Nanny has the most closet space, as well as a lack of small children who might play hide and seek under it, so this was the logical place.)

And now to the bridesmaids dresses. First I must name the maids (one's a matron, though she sure isn't matronly!): Rebekah is Maid of Honor, followed by my little sisters, Robin and Erin, and then Adele. All are quite delighted to have been chosen. The flower girls will be Sarah's cousins: Elizabeth (from my side) and Tia (from David's side). So on to the dresses. It took longer to choose them than it did the wedding gowns. Styles and colors were tried on, followed by much careful discussion amongst the gals. Finally a style was chosen, with a leaning towards the color purple. I went along with Sarah and Adele on the last trip to David's and again, a decision was hoped for. As Sarah was trying on various wraps and capes with her gown, Adele and I went for third time to look over the gowns on the rack. We came across a plum one in the chosen style and knew it was the one! Sarah loved it. It's in the purple realm, but richer, more wintery. The price wasn't bad either. What a relief.

Sarah chose her invitation this week. I found this very interesting. Unlike the days of visiting the printer, brides now visit craft stores for invitations they can run through their home printers. Much more affordable. The only difference is that the printing isn't embossed. Still, they're as nice as any I remember from the 1980's and before.

So it is really happening; the date fast approaches! Last night, while David and I were watching movie previews, a date flashed for the opening of one: 1-15-10. I realized that Sarah would be married by then. Wow - my little girl, about to be a wife, and not soon after, I suspect, a mother. I know that has been her longtime dreanm - I'm so happy for her!

Is it next week already?

2009-09-15T22:19:00.002-04:00

I've been very busy for the last few days. Two projects can account for this: Sarah and Praveen plan to marry in January, and I need some part-time work.

It looks like January 2nd for the wedding. We've already begun looking at reception sites. A bit of sticker shock there. Rebekah, and my little sister, Erin, tried on bridesmaid's dresses on Sunday. It seems they've decided on a style in Wisteria. Sarah loves that color, and it's a good color on each of the girls. Maid of Honor will be Rebekah, with my twin sisters, Erin and Robin, and Sarah's best friend, Adele down the line. How's that song go? "We've only just begun..."

The other project is my finding a job. This is not as easy as it was 3 years ago. I got two interviews, and ended up working in a gift shop within two weeks of applying. Now I'm knocking on every door, and coming up empty. I've been loking for a month now. I've gotten jaded when present employees tell me, "Yeah, I think they're hiring part-time, day shift. I'm not sure - go online to apply." Then nothing happens.

Applying for a job online is a lengthy process. It takes anywhere from 10 minutes to 1-1/2 hours. Today I filled out 25 pages with 4 questions each, and that was just about my personality. The biggest hurdle is my not willing to work evenings or weekends. I've even began to offer to work Saturdays, since David can keep Noah, no matter what the big kids are doing. Speaking of which, I'd better go to some more sites.

I wish I could go back to college again, for creative writing. I've thought of taking a course online, but between housework and cooking demands, and then helping Noah with homework and cello, there probably isn't time. At least I'm taking the time to pratice cello every other day. I make Noah practice for 10-20 minutes a day

So what else is new? Well, on Friday last, my mom and I drove Josh to BWI to catch a flight to Savannah, where he's studying architecture. Becka drove herself up here from Liberty, all alone. She was quick and resourceful though.

Isn't Peanut Butter Cap'n Cruch the nest best? I just ate some dry, with milk on the side.

Well, my eyes droop. G'night all

Frustration

2009-09-07T08:51:00.004-04:00

I have been looking for part-time work for 3 weeks now. I've have 2 interviews. The one offered me had inconvenient -even scanty - hours, and I'm still waiting for word from the other. I'm guessing I'm competing with many other housewives forced to get some supplemental income during this economy. I am hoping to to work to put money back into the bank after buying Rebekah a car and spending $2100 repairing our own elderly carriages.

We recently had the pleasure to visit with David's mother's family on Saturday, a little over an hour away. These are kind folk, feeling much love and affection for one another. I always feel a warm contentment when I am among them. They hosted a cook-out, and a tasty meal it was. I enjoyed being part of the food preparation in the kitchen, mashed in between Aunt Mady and Aunt Sarah, peeling eggs, to devil them. It reminded me of my own family's cookouts, at my Aunt Gerry's. I loved being with my many cousins - all six of them! Games, teasing, and too much good food to try everything! I'm glad my kids have a similar experience with these relatives.

New purse and skateboards! (and Cosmo update)

2009-09-05T09:14:00.005-04:00

I am delighted with my new purse! It's a Tignanello, the same brand as the really nice one my Dad and step-mom gave Sarah for her college graduation. I could hardly believe the price on it. It was on sale twice, and was down to $57 from $109. I had $50 left on a gift card, so I went for it. It's fine heavy leather with - something I need very much - three compartments. It's not a deep purse, which discourages burying items under others. I've needed a new purse for some time now, so it's a relief to finally have such a practical, attractive one.

Josh and Ben have new skateboards. Josh painted them. He came up with the Indian design, a stencil he drew and cut. Ben came up with the circle designs underneath, and Josh drew and painted them. My creative boys. I love seeing them work together; They're best friends.

Cosmo is all better now. His hives went away on the third day.

Hives on Cosmo

2009-09-02T08:14:00.003-04:00

Poor little Cozzy has hives. He woke up this way yesterday, looking like he was wearing puffy skin goggles. Now the hives are all over him. The vet said to give him benadryl every 8 hours, and that really helps. But again, he had them this morning because his evening dose wore off. I never saw him yipe outside, so I don't think he was stung by a bee. But another bug might have bitten him. Or it could be the food coloring in his kibble. I bought some all-natural kibble for his meal last night. It has no artificial anything, so hopefully that will help. Meanwhile, we all feel sorry for him. The last time I had hives, it lasted a week. I hope it's over sooner for him.

Even his flews are swollen. They're normally half this size.

Group proposal?

2009-08-31T19:40:00.002-04:00

I just saw the dumbest thing on youtube - a group proposal put together by the Today Show. All these girls who thought they were having Valentine's makeovers we told to turn their swivel chairs around, and then a bunch of guys filed in. Katie Couric directed, "OK, ladies, turn around - guys, do your thing!" And about 20 young men simultaneously kneeled and proposed to their girlfriends. I'm sorry, but what should have been a sweet private moment for two was instead made into a public conveyor-belt display for 15 seconds on national TV. I hated it. I felt bad for the girls and guys. Give me a candle-lit dinner proposal anyday. In fact, the way David gave me my ring, atop a lighthouse, was priceless. It was just Noah, the lighthouse lady, David and me.

Oh well. We don't all go crazy alike.

Here's the link http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XNhxytlTKrE&feature=related

2009-08-31T08:56:00.002-04:00

Well, it's just me and the dogs. I put the boys on the bus this morning. Ben's in 11th and Noah's in 2nd. This is Noah's first year to ride a bus, and I think he was excited about that. He was also quite pleased with his Spiderman lunch box. It's the metal kind like I used to take. Walmart had them for $7. I like them because sandwhiches don't get flattened. Ben was feeling quite dapper in his new duds. (Actually, he's "borrowing" a shirt from Josh, since he's not here to protest.)

I didn't cry this year. Actually, I'm enjoying being alone in the house. Because Sarah's car is sick, she took mine, so I'm a 1950's mom today - it's housework for me! And I'm actually glad for it. I can iron while I watch TV. Also, I can practice my cello without the family hearing, and sound better next time the do hear me.

August Eve

2009-08-30T19:45:00.003-04:00

This has got to be the most perfect evening of the whole summer. It's 7:47pm. The sky is washed in hues of pink and purple. The cicadas are buzzing lazily in response to the cooler, darker atmosphere. Their replacements, crickets, are warming up and chirping louder every few minutes. How I love a summer evening.

It was a lovely day too. Mid-70's with a breeze. Low humidity. A few puffy clouds decorated the sky. Of course, Noah and I took off for the park right after lunch. He scootered, and I toted a backpack containing my essentials: a good book - Villette, for now - a Sudoku book, a notebook - for any ideas I might have - my camera, cell, and a big bottle of water to share with Noah.

I read a fair amount of Villette, by Charlotte Bronte. I'm enjoying it, but it's not as good as Jane Eyre. She lingered too long on the characters. Altogether, it's too wordy; I think she could have pared the book down by about a third. As I read, I was continually dazzled by the diamond ring David gave me last summer. I finally took some pics of it.

Noah enjoyed playing with other kids. He makes friends easily; probably - having no close siblings - because he has too. After an hour and a half, he and I swung on a bench overlooking the river, and talked. He's into Star Wars right now, so that's mainly what we talked about.

Of course I took pics on our park outing. In particular, I took some of a sweet little house which looks as though it's inhabited by hobbits. One half expects one to pop it's head out of the window and say hello. We walk by it every time we go to the park. I love my neighborhood. It's old and charming with mature trees and a variety of homes, older and newer. (mostly older) I also took some pics of some winding steps that were recently put down. The landscaping is endearing; it reminds me of a quaint English yard.

When we got back, we had Razzleberry pie and ice-cream and Ben and I watched Monk. I wish Mr. Monk lived next-door. (With Natalie close-by as well.)

Golden Rain Tree

2009-08-29T13:20:00.007-04:00

We have a Golden Rain Tree in front of our house. I caught various stages of the pod development a few days ago. They start in the blossoms, growing out of their spent centers.

I caught some good shots of bees as well.

my Snow White moment

2009-08-29T09:06:00.006-04:00

This morning, I happened to spy a bird out on my driveway, aggressively pecking at the thick weeds growing between the cracks in the sections of concrete. It was rather large - larger than the curious Robins nearby - and had a bright red marking on the back of its neck. I watched it pull a couple of bugs from the weeds and gobble them up, then fly away. I flew too, to my laptop to find out what kind of bird that was! (My Audobon book dissapeared some time ago, most likely bumped off the balcony by one of the kids.)

It was a Northern Flicker. I listened to its song, and knew it right away.

As I watched the Flicker, a large bug-like creature flew up to the brightly colored stain glass window hanging just above my view of the Flicker. It hovered for a second, then zoomed away. It was a green humming bird, a ruby-throated, I believe. How neat was that - to see two unusual birds up close within ten minutes? I felt like Snow White.

all eyes are on them

2009-08-28T17:02:00.004-04:00

There they all sit, mesmerized. The sounds and sights are too powerful to turn away from. Big, hairy feet propped up. A bag of Doritos lay open, almost empty. From time to time, comments are made, such as, "If I were them, I'd be invading that planet." All the males in my family - David, Ben, Josh, Noah, and even our male dog, Cosmo - are lined up on the sofa. Behold the power of Star Wars.

Maisy is fat

2009-08-26T20:33:00.005-04:00

I took the little beasts into the vet yesterday. It was no big surprise to learn that Miss Maisy has chunked out a bit... 26 lbs! She should weigh 2o, maybe 21. Cosmo was his usual trim little self at 22 lbs. He looked a little snooty after Maisy's weight was read aloud. Nah - it was just my imagination. I felt like saying, "Ewe's not fat - ewe's fluffy!" For she truly is. That's the problem; her fluffy coat hides her girth. So tonight, I fed her a little less than usual. And told the fam to stop giving her snacks. The saddest thing about this whole matter is - eating is to Shelties as reading is to scholars. Or as singing is to musicians. Or as painting is to artists. So I feel rather mean limiting her to painting 2/3 of a picture. Or singing 2/3 of a song. Or reading 2/3 of a book. But it's for her own good.

Nancy visits

2009-08-25T17:23:00.005-04:00

David's sister, Nancy, visited us a couple weeks back. She came all the way the California, with her husband, Mike, and stayed for two weeks.

After Sunday dinner at our house, Nancy told the funniest story from her recent trip to Peurto Rico. It wasn't funny at the time, but don't those ones always turn out the funniest, once they're over?

After a maddening mountain climb, to learn about rain forests the previous day, Nancy overheard some others in the group talking about the lovely peaceful horse-back outing they had taken along the beach. They even rode the horsed into the waves. "Ahhhh..." thought Nancy, "now that's what I need." So she signed up for that day's horse-back outing. Only later - too late to turn back - did she find out that it was not along the beach.

Nancy's group started their horses up (yet again) a mountain. The path along which they slogged was rocky and rough. It was about one foot wider that the girth of a horse. And on either side thorn bushes grew high. "Lean forward!" shouted the leader, as the hill became steeper. It was very frightening. Not peaceful. Not by a longshot. Once at the top, a rest, then back down again - goody! This time it was, "Lean back!" Oh, yes, I almost forgot: the riders had to constantly pull the reigns up to keep their horses from stopping to snack on the thorn bushes. Poor Nancy. I felt really bad for laughing throughout her tale. But she thought it funny too, by then.

Here's Nancy with Cosmo. Of course, she experienced, as all do, his emotional neediness, and found him silly and pathetic.

haircut

2009-08-21T21:25:00.005-04:00

In five minutes, Noah went from scruffy to neat. The big kids wanted me to wait til the day before Noah started school to cut his long locks. But with his hair always in his eyes, I could stand it no longer! Off it came. Here are some before and after pics. By the way, Noah was rather unconcerned about whether his hair was long or short, though he doesn't like having his hair cut, and fussed the whole time.

Cool of the Day

2009-08-08T10:29:00.004-04:00

Remember the part of the Bible that described God walking in the cool of the day? (He would talk with Adam in Eve then - in the Garden - before they fell into sin.) Well, that's the feeling I had this morning when I took the dogs out. It was about 65 degrees, and the sun had only been awake for maybe twenty minutes. In the early-morning shade, the flowers on trees and bushes were vivid, anticipating the day to come. Perhaps they had just fluffed their skirts and freshened their make-up. I've noticed they look especially lovely in the early morning and in the evening. The evening glow may be attributed to an afternoon nap. Just speculation here, but one never knows.
I've twice now noticed something odd when I'm out walking the dogs: bees napping on the golden rain tree blossoms. Where they there all night, not have the strength, it being so long into the work season, to fly back? It is temperate at night, so they won't get cold if they stay out. This is all I can some up with.
I love the beauty of God's creation. I've always been a nature-girl. Thank You, Lord, for the lovely plants and fascinating little creatures You've made.

resist

2009-08-04T15:07:00.002-04:00

He's so bored.
And it's so hot out.
I spied him through a window, and I just couldn't stop him ~
Noah, jumping on the couch.

Licensed to drive!

2009-07-30T23:48:00.005-04:00

Rebekah got her driver's license today! It was quite an ordeal, as we went to the wrong test center at first. But when we finally go to the right one - late - all of Becka's lessons and practice pain off and she was awarded with the slip to get her photo done. Yay!!!

Becka with her license at the test center

Telling Bubbe she passed

In her Jeep - finally!

Aunt Helen

2009-07-30T15:34:00.004-04:00

David's Aunt Helen died on Saturday. Her service was yesterday. Aunt Helen was friendly and hospitable. I always enjoyed her company. Many at the funeral remarked that she was quite the hostess, keenly aware of proper ettiquete; she knew how to make guests comfortable. She wasn't stuffy though. Rather, she was approachable and fun to be with. In fact, she was especially fond of - and good at -card-playing. She was the hostess with the mostess. Up until the end of her life, she was hospitable, making her visitors feel welcome, showing more interest in their lives than dwelling on her illness. I am so used to seeing her at every family gathering. How strange her absense will be at the next one.

Time with the Lord

2009-07-28T08:19:00.003-04:00

I try to spend 15-20 minutes in devotions every morning. Sometimes I get out of the habit, and soon find myself spiritually weak. I am ashamed that I can spend 2 hours watching a movie, 30 minutes on the phone, or an hour surfing the net, but cannot spend 20 minutes with the Lord.

Here are a couple tips to help keep devotions going:

Have a quiet, pleasant place set aside, just for devotions. Distract your kids. (Noah's morning cartoons work!)

Have some coffee or tea to drink as you study. This seems to settle me in for a special time, as it would for an intimate visit with a friend.

Have a notebook handy, for any epiphanies that may occur to you as your read the Word.

Follow a line of study. You know right where to start, making it easy to just get going; no wasting time paging through to see what you might study that day. For example, I recently started reading through the gospels. I haven't done this for years. I am well-acquainted with many parts, but there are other parts that are new to me.

Here are two places I have my devotions. I prefer the outdoor location if weather is nice. The breezes and singing birds are a nice atmosphere to study by. Indoors, I have a place in my sunroom that I like. I can even close of the french doors to cloister myself more completely.

Missing: two front teeth

2009-07-27T21:48:00.004-04:00

Noah lost his other top front tooth today. It was soooo loose, I just plucked it out, w/o much warning. Noah let me know he was not happy about that. He ran to the bathroom to spit out the blood in the sink, and woefully exclaimed, "Now I look like a vampire!" Soon enough, he was back to his silly self.

Later on, Sarah was teasing Becka about something, and got that naughty look on her face when she's been especially bratty... I don't want to forget that look. A year from now, she could be living in another state. :(

Birthday party & the solar system

2009-07-26T20:10:00.005-04:00

We threw Noah a 7-1/2 year old birthday party last night. He really turned 7 in March, but that's no season for a kids party. Our house isn't big enough for 10 noisy 7 years olds to tear around in. So I made the decision to have the party at a local park. We reserved the pavillion and waited. The wait was due to all the other dates taken. What I wanted to take place in early May took til late July. Knowing a date was set, Noah bugged and bugged, and eventually forgot about his party. And then it happened. Kids everywhere - 12 showed. Running, scootering, giggling, chasing. It was much fun. They only stopped long enough to down hot dogs and then cake. I did get them to play two games: eggs on spoons and cotton ball transfer, a favorite. The cotton ball game brought much laughter, as it always does.

Today, Noah and I assembled some of his goodies: a race track, a radio-controlled car, and solar system mobile from Cousin Elizabeth. Noah and I especially enjoyed painting the glow-in-the-dark paint on the planets. Now we just have to hang it.

Parable of the Sower

2009-07-25T10:03:00.003-04:00

I am studying Matthew 13:18-23, the parable of the sower, who sowed seed in different kinds of soil. I've always wondered if the people mentioned in verses 20 (stony places) and 22 (among thorns) were truly converted, but not very fruitful, just weak Christians, who'll make it into heaven, but not have done anything for the Lord. Then I read Matthew 7:19-23, where Jesus points out the "acid test" of whether someone's a Christian or not: "by their fruits ye shall know them." Then He goes on to illustrate how some will point out the things they did as Christians, but He says to them, "I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity." So apparently they were false Christians, sometimes acting like Christians, but still living in sin, "working
iniquity. What is iniquity? The dictionary says -

–noun, plural -ties.
1. gross injustice or wickedness.
2. a violation of right or duty; wicked act; sin.

So, they people are not just living in sin, they are actively promoting it! But also, calling themselves Christians. Basically, they are extremely two-faced.

Well, that cleared it up for me. The people in Matthew 13:18-23 are not truly converted. They are phonies. Very sobering.

Practice makes pretty good

2009-07-23T20:44:00.004-04:00

Noah and I are practicing on our cellos a lot lately. There have been some 30 minute moments in each day lately that I can tuck these practices neatly into. He was complaining tonight, but he really only worked at it for 15 minutes, then a break, then 5 more minutes. It really does make a difference.

I am learning the following songs (that Noah has down already):

French Folk Song
Go Tell Aunt Rhody
Allegro
May Song
O Come, Little Children

In other news, Noah had his swimming test today. He did well, but didn't pass. This is common, I hear. Most kids don't pass the first time through. But he gave it his best shot. He even swam without his float "pack," only a noodle. I video-taped him for the fam. They all get a kick out of his various endeavors. It's really neat to see the bigger kids take such an interest in him.

The other night I changed Noah's sheets (from bear-print to plain white). Soon after, as I tucked him in, he made a strange remark: "There's something not right with this bed." I probed what that might be. "Well, it's these white sheets - I feel like an old man and dying." I assured him that we all used white sheets from time to time, as that's what's clean in the closet. He was somewhat satisfied with this answer, and settled in for prayers, hearts*, and kisses.

Rebekah and I are getting into Sudoku. She is very good at it, but tells me she's gotten rusty. I, however, slowly poke through the "easy" ones, bugging Becka or Ben to help me out a little. I am getting it, though, and it's rather addictive.

Sarah worked 12-hour shifts yesterday and today. She's off tomorrow. This is the first week she's on the floor, and I think its a lot to take in. Three months from now she'll laugh at how hard it seemed at first.

I applied for part-time jobs today. I hit three jewelry stores, two Hallmark stores, and a children's clothing store (which I love to but Noah's clothes from). If I get the clothing store, I think I'll get a discount. I have an interview tomorrow. I'll see what comes of the other places, and then decide what to do.

*Hearts - a little saying Noah and I came up with after he once told me (at age 4) that his heart loved my heart. He eventually added, "even my beating heart loves your beating heart." So we say this to each other thusly, every night:

Noah: "My heart loves your heart."

Me: "Even my heart loves your heart."

Noah: "My beating heart loves your beating heart."

Me: Even my beating heart loves your beating heart."

He made this whole pattern up. I hope we continue to say it for a long time. Afterwards, he gives me a kiss on my left cheek, nose, and right cheek. And that ends our bedtime ritual. (Which started with a prayer.)

Sarah is engaged!

2009-07-21T20:44:00.004-04:00

This past Sunday, on our lower porch, with birds singing in the background, Praveen took our daughter's hand, knelt before her, and asked her to be his wife. She said yes, and a new chapter in her life began...

We are all very excited to welcome this exceptional young man into our family! He is trying to get a job in this area, so that he and Sarah can build a family nearby a good support system. I know that they'll be fine where ever they live. David and I enjoyed living out of state for five years of our marriage - three in VA, and two in CT. It was good for us to be on our own.

We have prayed for a good husband for Sarah since she was a baby. Isn't God good?

Day at the Smithsonian

2009-07-19T16:04:00.004-04:00

David, Sarah, Praveen, Noah, and I went to the Smithsonian yesterday. We walked our feet off, but got our fill of museums. We hit the Air & Space, American History, and Natural History museums, as well as the WWII Memorial fountain, and the Lincoln Memorial. Noah was especially looking forward to the Air & Space Museum and the Lincoln Memorial. Some pics:

Injected with relief!

2009-07-16T18:05:00.004-04:00

My little girl passed her NCLEX today! That's the really, really, really difficult nursing exam that one must pass to practice nursing. She is so relieved - she's been studying hard for 2 months, even while in Europe. Now, she's ready to give injections, anywhere, anytime! Hurray! I'm so proud of you, Sarah Jane!

Spared by 3 seconds

2009-07-14T13:24:00.003-04:00

Sarah came home for lunch today, and on her way back to the hospital, drove by a nearby park. Right before her eyes, a foot-thick, 20-foot-long tree branch fell - right in front of her car. She missed being hit by three seconds! She told me that if she hadn't paused in the driveway to put some lipgloss on, it probably would have dropped on her car, injuring or even killing her. Thank You, Lord, for your protection!

Binding and loosing

2009-07-11T09:21:00.002-04:00

I read something in my Bible time yesterday that left me puzzling:

" Then said Jesus to them again, Peace be unto you: as my Father hath sent me, even so send I you. 22 And when he had said this, he breathed on them, and saith unto them, Receive ye the Holy Ghost: 23 Whose soever sins ye remit, they are remitted unto them; and whose soever sins ye retain, they are retained." John 20:22, 23

What could this mean? That the apostles or even any Christian can forgive or withhold forgiveness from people? That they could act in God's place? There was a reference to Matthew 18:18:

"Verily I say unto you, Whatsoever ye shall bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever ye shall loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven." (This verse follows verses specifically talking about the steps of church discipline.)

I began to read various commentaries, and found what I thought to be the best explaination: these verses have to do with church discipline. For example, the church leaders (starting with the apostles whom Jesus breathed on) are given the responsiblity of dealing with backslidden Christians. If there's a woman in the church who is living with a man she's not married to, and won't respond to the steps laid out in Matt 18:15,16 (one person speaks to her about it, then 2-3 more if she doesn't respond), the next step is to bring the matter to the elders of the church. They will then decide if she should be put out of the church. Their decision is binding her, making a boundary concerning her. If she repents, they'll loose her from it, and let her join back into fellowship. This is serious business, even to the point of being recognized in heaven.

Here's the site I learned the most from: http://www.geocities.com/dcheddie/john20_1.html

I thought this a very interesting study, especially as all I ever heard about binding and loosing had to do with binding demons and loosing Christians from their grasps.

various thoughts

2009-07-09T16:18:00.006-04:00

Boys. I always wanted a baby boy, and more that one if possible. They were my favorite playmates as a girl, and I often wanted to be one. I love my boys.

Noah has gotten out of shape. In the cello department, that is. What with entertaining and just plain busy-ness, I haven't made him practice for (I hope his teacher doesn't read this!) a week. And so he is rusty. He literally sounded rusty 20 minutes ago as I put him through his paces. Today will be a 2-practice day, to catch up for his next lesson.

Sarah takes her NCLEX in one week. She has studied so hard, and taken 3 practice tests, each with a higher score. I look forward to her passing it almost as much as she does!

Rebekah cam home on June 28th, and went right to work at a local grocery store. She is learning to drive this summer via a driving school. It's been difficult to organize a sitter for Noah every time I want to take Becka out, so this way it gets done. I took driving lessons the same way, and it worked well for me. Her teacher's name is Buster. He's in his 50s and has a beard. Oh, and he's very calm.

Here's Sarah. Time to talk about her day...

Nurse (Sarah) Jane Fuzzy Wuzz

2009-05-21T08:16:00.013-04:00

Sarah graduated on Saturday from Messiah College. She earned her BSN, which means she is ready to earn a Master's if/when she decides to. She had her pinning ceremony the day before. We are all so proud of her! Here are some pics:

With David and me

With the grandfathers, John, my father-in-law, at left, and my dad, Gary, on right

With Nanny, my mother-in-law, Winnie, also a nurse

With sibs, Rebekah and Josh, after commencement

Sisters - Becka came up from VA for the ceremonies

With brother, Ben, who claimed he taught her everything she knows - not!

Party at Nanny and Papaw's!

With little brother, Noah

Sarah's nursing pin, 10K solid gold, about 7/8" in diameter.

I gave Sarah the sapphire and diamond ring that my father gave me when I graduated high school. She was honored. She's admired this ring for some time.

this and that

2009-05-12T09:17:00.003-04:00

Well, let's see... I finished my college course yesterday with the taking of my 1st ever college exam. Though I started it feeling nervous, I think I did OK. I think it was really good for me to take this course, though I wish it had happened during a less stressful winter/spring. Nonetheless, it made me write in a way I needed to. I have now written:

a case study (100/100)
a critique (100/100, and the prof's going to use it as a good example for future classes!)
a commentary (140/150)
a position/research paper (?)

My self-esteem is up about 40% and I can finally say, "Yes, I went to college." (No degree, but I have sipped from the community fount of higher learning.)

Ok, enough horn-blowing.

Sarah gave me a lovely bouquet of peach roses for Mother's Day. Josh and Ben hugged me throughout the day, Becka phoned me to wish me a good one, and Noah, for his own reasons, wished me a happy "Leaf Ericson Day." I found out later that he was embarrassed to say Mother's Day, but still wanted to wish me a happy something. Yep, like all of us, he's a little weird. It seems to be that gene David and I have managed to pass along to each of our kids. Ben and Becka are probably the most normal.

Sarah graduates from nursing school this weekend. She has her pinning ceremony on Friday. I am going to carry many tissues on my person, as this has been a long hard 4 years for her, and I'm so proud of her, as well as relieved. Nanny and Papaw are taking her to Europe in June, and if anyone deserves it, it's Sarah. Ben is also going, as Nanny and Papaw want to take each of the kids at least once. (With the economy what it is, I am preparing myself never to get there. That way I'll either be happily surprised or generally prepared for the worst.)

Cosmo has finally shown himself to be a good little lad in the area of potty manners. I am more relaxed these days... Sadly, he is still sprinkling half of our visitors, in some expression of happiness and submission to them. This is maddening to me, and I may have to put in a call to the Dog Whisperer...

Smartest, Largest, Fastest, Strongest, Ugliest

2009-05-03T08:23:00.007-04:00

This morning, Noah asked me which was the smartest, biggest, fastest, and strongest animal in the world. Knowing there wasn't one animal that was all these, I broke it down in categories. For kicks, we searched for the ugliest animal as well. The last category was rather subjective, but the first four are proven -

Note - Blogspot is really difficult to post pics in, with captions, so you'll have to match the animals with the right captions, as no matter how I try, I can't. But at least they're close...

Smartest - the great apes - gorilla, orangutan, and chimpanzee:

Largest, the Blue Whale:

Fastest, Cheetah:

Strongest, the Rhinoceros Beetle (for its size):

Ugliest (to Noah and me), in second to the Aye-Aye, is the Blobfish:

2009-04-30T08:17:00.003-04:00

Ben is 17 today. Here is the story of his birth:

A week before his due date, my doctor thought it prudent to look inside my huge belly, via ultrasound, to find out just how big that baby was. His brother had been a whopper, and so Ben was expected to be as well. I was relieved that they were thinking of inducing him a week early, especially after the u/s tech said he was measuring "off the charts." She estimated his weight to be about 9-1/2 lbs. She was a pound off...

I was admitted into the hospital on Wednesday, April 29th, and given a medicine to start the process. By morning nothing much was happening, so they started a pitocin drip. Ben was born at 2:42, weighing 10.7 lbs! He was so big and healthy, with a full head of thick black hair. He was simply perfect. David and I were so happy to finally meet him, as realize that he and Josh would be playmates, being only 2 years apart. I remember the nurses measuring his head, looking at one another in surprise, and re-measuring it. Though he was 4 oz larger than Josh, he wasn't as painful to pass. Ben, however, was more upset about the whole thing than Josh had been, crying off and on for four hours before falling asleep.

Other than a short hospitalization for jaundice, Ben proved to be a faily easy newborn. He was a "clingy" older baby, though, usually found on my hip. Though he was heavy, I enjoyed toting him around, and even help him for whole naps sometimes. Thinking he was my last, I did coddle him a bit.

Happy birthday, Ben. It seems it was only yesterday I carried you around, while you sucked your thumb and twisted my hair.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
In other news here are some pics of life around here -

My birthday present from David, a Willow Creek figurine called "Tenderness." I love it - it reminds me of all my babies and the precious moments I shared with them at that age. It was a total surprise. I had told David I liked it, but never guessed he'd get it for me. (He doesn't like these figurines, as they are "vague and faceless." I like them for just those reasons - I can see myself or my loved ones into them. Also they are affordable ;)

Just the guys hanging out - Josh with Cozzy.

Praveen sent Sarah a dozen roses yesterday, just because...

Even at the grown-up age of seven, Noah still holds my hand to cross streets, etc. I cherish these moments.

Mommy powers

2009-04-19T22:59:00.002-04:00

David and I were just finishing up watching Little Dorrit when a small voice spoke up from around the corner of the kitchen, "I can't sleep. I tried everything, but I can't sleep." It was Noah, and at 10:20pm, he was frustrated that he couldn't get to sleep, though he knew he should. (Noah likes to do "the right thing" and often feels bad for not meeting our expectations, though we aren't hard on him. It's just his way.)

So I sent him back up to his bed, suggesting he read a book. Soon, I was up there with him, trying to figure out how to get him to fall asleep. "I'll read you a book!" I said, and he replied, "That always works - you have Mommy powers. I always go to sleep when you read to me." So we read Raggedy Ann and the Kite, and he did nod off. Reading a child to sleep is one of life's sweetest gifts. It doesn't happen a lot, as I'm a mom who usually tucks kids in and lets them drop off on their own. But sometimes it does happen. I've had this happen a few times with Noah, but I can't remember it happening with the older kids. I think they were all sleepier than he, having played with one another all day. They rarely had a hard time dropping off once I had tucked them in, sometimes with a single story, sometimes not. (I have the same habit with Noah.)

During the story, we had a little conversation about dads, and how I always tried to please my dad, but was often naughty for my mom. I explained to Noah that when my daddy was home, he was all kisses and fun. Of course, my mom was also affectionate with me, but she spent so much more time with me, and I was more apt to act up for her. Noah quickly surmised this information, "I think you were good for your dad because he wasn't home a lot." Out of the mouths of babes.

I assured him that I did get to see my dad a lot when I was a child, but not as much as my mom, and then we began to talk about children whose fathers are overseas in the war. Noah told me about a little boy in his school who had fallen to tears during recess one day. Noah guessed that his father was in the Navy, and he was right. The little boy was surprised, and they began to talk. Noah told me, "I just knew his father was in the Navy. I just knew. Sometimes I just know things." Perhaps, like me, Noah is a good guesser. I also feel odd that I often know something I have no reason to. I always chalked it up to chance. This puts me to thinking I should pick some numbers for the next big lottery.

Josh was due today...

2009-04-06T22:20:00.002-04:00

...but he decided to hang out for another week, and get fatter. By the time I had him, he weighed 10 lbs! I remember this night though. I had hoped he'd arrive on time, but something happened that overwhelmed me, and I was glad he didn't. After I put the girls to bed, my neighbor came over and told me that she had just seen our cat, Ripples, dead on the road in front of the house. I was devastated, and cried and cried. I couldn't go out and look. David was out for some reason, and when he came in, I told him, and he went out and took care of it. I was wiped out the next day from crying and sadness.
A week later, Joshie arrived, and I was good and ready. Sometimes I wondered if God allowed Ripples to leave our home before Josh came because she was going to hurt him in some way.

Peanut Butter Eggs!

2009-04-05T19:11:00.006-04:00

Noah and I made peanutbutter Easter eggs today. We used a modified version of my sister, Wendy's, recipe. (I use less sugar) Here's the recipe:

PB Eggs
1 stick (1/2 cup) butter, melted
28-oz jar creamy peanutbutter
2 lbs 10x sugar
oil
water
3 lbs melting milk chocolate

Blend butter, pb, and sugar, drizzling oil and water, alternately, to bind until you have a filling that can be formed into eggs, but not mushy. (This mixture just fits into my KitchenAid mixer bowl, but I have to scrape it, and force the mix back down at times.) Form into eggs, about 2"x 1-1/2" or whatever size you prefer. Lay out on cookie sheet with sides, laying wax paper between layers. Freeze egg forms for a couple hours.
Melt chocolate in double boiler or glass pyrex bowl over pot of hot water, stirring often. Keep heat just high enough to simmer water. Meanwhile, spread wax paper on counter beside stove. I also use the wax-papered sheet I froze the eggs on, as I use them up. Dip eggs in melted chocolate with tongs, let extra drip off, and place on wax paper. Don't leave eggs in melted chocolate too long or they'll go soft. After first dipping, trim extra chocolate off hardened eggs and re-melt. Spoon more chocolate, about a teaspoon, over each egg, to double-coat. Let cool and harden. Store in fridge - if they last that long! Makes 50 2" eggs.

I've found that my dishwasher washes all the chocolate off the pots, etc.

Now let's see how we made them! (For fun, see if you find Cosmo in a couple pics.)

First we rolled them.

Then we popped the pb forms into the freezer and went to the park. Here's Noah on his new KettCar.

We came home a couple hours later, chopped and melted the milk chocolate, and dipped the eggs!

And here the are! Let the joy begin!

My little Oriole

2009-04-04T16:59:00.005-04:00

Today was opening day for T-ball in our little town. Noah was up to bat once, and his Uncle Steve caught it, but I was fetching blankets from the car, and didn't :( This was because the wind was so fierce it nearly blew some of the smaller players away! (Noah's hat really went with the wind.) After the game we had hot dogs - what else?

Last is a picture of Noah with Uncle Steve.

Connections

2009-04-02T09:33:00.005-04:00

When Noah and I play our cellos together, something magical happens: we connect in a unique way. Even if we're just doing scales, it's wonderful! I'm so glad I took up the cello.

I remember having a similar connection with the big kids when we played Heart and Soul together. Music grings families together. More parents should join in on the fun!

I am also connecting with my college kids now that I'm in college too. Here I am with Sarah.

Baby, you're a star

2009-03-31T21:56:00.003-04:00

Apparently my Becka was a big hit, along with her co-stars at the Liberty U Coffeehouse, a huge talent show with an audience of several thousand. She was Doreen in a Stuart skit. For those who don't know, Doreen and Stuart are a dysfunctional mom and little boy from MadTV. Doreen is stuck in the 80's and has a Wisconsin accent. Stuart, age 7, but always played by a 6'2" man, says things like, "I peed a little!" when he gets nervous or excited, or, "I'm in my dark place" when he's sad/angry. Doreen says things like, "He's just a helpless little boy - he couldn't find his way out of a paper bag!" She'll also explain, "Stuart is special, it takes looooove and paaaaatience.... and - because Staurt has been saying, 'Mama? Mama? Mama?" the whole time she's talking - (shouts) What is it, Stuart!?"

I wish I had been there for the skit. Sadly, there is no youtube of it, but I did get some pics of facebook... (she's the one with the microphone) The last one has Jerry Falwell Jr in it. He likes these skits so much they made a little role for him.

Another 100%

2009-03-30T18:52:00.002-04:00

I got my critique back, and I got 100% on it! This was the paper I didn't like at all. My prof said it was a "model critique," and wants to use it in future classes! My whole family is cheering me tonight. :)

Hello Cello!

2009-03-26T22:25:00.003-04:00

I picked up a full size cello for myself yesterday. I'll rent it for a while and see how I do. It's brand new, an Eastman. This is one of Noah's teacher's favorite makers. Now I know why. I tightened up my bow and made that cello ring! I can play all the Twinkles, Hot Cross Buns, Scotland's Burning, and a couple different scales.

Noah taught me the anchor points today. We also played rounds of Scotland's Burning. I still have to catch up to him, though. He left me in the dust months ago, when I tired of playing his little cello. It's much easier to play this one. I'm piggy-backing on Noah's suzuki lessons, something I've heard many suzuki moms do. Noah's teacher is excited for me. I hope I can master it. I've practiced four times today. I have to stop after 10 minutes, as my arm and thumb muscles (on my bowing arm/hand) ache. After an hour, I can get back to it.

Between practicing, I managed to complete my commentary outline for my class. The trend I'm commenting on is micro-chipping, of clothes, appliances, and even people's arms! It's very interesting, and frightening. One can really see the image of the Beast in all this...

2009-03-23T18:00:00.003-04:00

My sister, Gayle, scanned a bunch of our old family photos. I got a kick out of looking at them.

Here I am after my baptism, with my parents, and my sisters, Wendy and Gayle. 1967

Here's my mom with my brother, Steve, and me. We were born 14 months apart. I was still bigger than him then. Now he towers above me at 6'2".

At my Aunt Gerry's house, 1969.

An eccentric group... back, L-R: my sisters, Gayle and Wendy and my Aunt Ginger

front, L-R: my Uncle Billy, me, and my brother, Steve ~1972~

We were swimming at my Uncle Bob's house. I remember it yet.

He came from afar...

2009-03-23T17:25:00.006-04:00

Sarah has a boyfriend, and he's tall, dark, and handsome... His name is Praveen, and he's originally from India. He now lives and works a few states away as an engineer, and has been a Christian for 18 months. He's been growing much in the Lord, and especially likes the works of C.S. Lewis and Ravi Zacharias.

Sarah met Praveen on Christianmingle.com. She was drawn to his being Indian; he to the part of her profile that said she liked to bake. ;) After a month of talking on the phone with Sarah, he flew in to meet all of us. David and I were very impressed with him. Sarah is besotted with him, lol! His English is very good, but happily, he still has a strong Indian accent. Time will tell what comes of all this. Praveen is the first guy Sarah's dated who really clicked with her. They seem to have everything in common, and a very similar world view. They are both somewhat business-like, and addressed a lot of the usual specifics early on. Phone/mail relationships are like this, as there is nothing to do but talk. Usual dating involves activities like bowling or seeing movies, and this leaves less time for talking. So they have probably compressed three months of talk into one. I've been told all this by two other gals who went through the same kind of "dating." One was my sister, who is still happily married to her long-distance guy, for 10 years now.

It's really interesting to see their phyical contrast. I've always thought Indian people were very attractive and interesting. They are the most gracious people I've constistantly ever met. As Sarah has always been fascinated with very different cultures, I think she would do better than most assimilating to one. This is why I am not too concerned with the obvious culture clashes that will occur. I think she'll take this in stride. She is open to living here or in India, if something does come of this...

I'm very happy for Sarah. Praveen's a really nice guy.

boundaries

2009-03-18T09:36:00.004-04:00

I have been setting boundaries over the last few days, and while it is somewhat anxiety-producing, it is also needful. I can take people's insulting comments well enough, but when they attack my children, Mother Bear comes out. Not good.

Irish thoughts...

2009-03-17T09:11:00.003-04:00

It's St. Patrick's Day, and this always reminds me that I'm part Irish. My Grandpa Casey gave me my Irish roots. Sadly, I don't remember him, as he died when I was two. I know that he met me, and that is some consolation. My son, Josh, looks somewhat like him. Also, Josh, like Grandpa, is quite clever.

Grandpa's family hailed from County Mayo, off to the the left, on the coast. Perhaps this has something to do with my love of mayonaisse ;) and of the shore. I also love to make up stories. I do not like the sound of bagpipes, but my red-haired daughter, Sarah, does. By their looks, my kids would all blend into Ireland. I am told that more than any other culture, I look Irish.

My sister, Wendy, took my girls to Ireland when they were 9 and 11. They had a good time, exploring old castles, trail-riding, playing on the smooth boulders on the shores, and seeing the sheer cliffs. They even stayed overnight in a castle. The girls came home with a ton a pictures, Irish lace, wool blankets, and delicate teapots, creamers, and sugar bowls, all courtesy of Aunt Wendy, meant for their trousseaus. The girls picked out everything. Sarah's teapot is from Donegal china, made from Ireland's own clay, and so delicate that you can see through it if it's held up to the sun. I am just amazed that my sister somehow carried those tea sets back without them breaking. They are now in storage, along with other housewares, awaiting their housekeeping days. I know my girls will always be grateful to their Aunt Wendy for this amazing experience.

Today is a special day for another reason. On this day, 24 years ago, I woke up for the first time next to my new husband, David. I remember the feeling so well. It was a fresh happy feeling as I looked at the shiny wedding band on my finger. I kissed David awake, and we were soon off to a breakfast buffet in the hotel. This is before I drank coffee. That is funny to me, as coffee is now such a regular part of my morning. ( I started drinking it, half a cup a day, while pregnant with Rebekah, for headaches I got from the pregnancy.) I can't believe we're been married for 24 years. How they flew! I'm so thankful for the good husband I have.

Spring has sprung

2009-03-15T17:07:00.005-04:00

I just got back from a walk with Noah. He rode his new scooter and got lots of exercise. As we walked/scootered, I was delighted to see all the crocuses popping up. Yellow, purple, white, all happily announcing the arrival of spring. Yay!

Sarah is rather besotted with a young man, an engineer from the midwest. He is Indian, which is no surprise. Sarah has long been fascinated with the Indian (not American) culture. She even does mehndi, henna skin-dyeing. We're all going to meet him this weekend. He sounds like a really nice guy, and best of all, he likes science and fantasy fiction. This is right down Sarah's alley...

Rebekah has been at Coco Beach all week, and is now in a noisy crowded car heading back to college. I am happy to say she didn't burn, as she was covered with 45 spf all week. Good girl.

Introduction for blog party

2009-03-07T23:12:00.008-05:00

Hello, My name is Jill and I am really looking forward to meeting other like-minded gals through this link "party."

I am a Bible-believing Christian, having accepted Christ when I was nine years old because I learned that without Him, I was going to Hell. I used to be afraid to admit this, as many of my peers talked about being saved because they desired the peace and/or friendship of God. My reason, escape from the flames of Hell, seemed so base and self-serving. Now I realize that fear of Hell is reason enough to look to my Savior, the only One Who can cover my sins, and deliver me from eternal torment. Peace, grace, and friendship with God are fringe benefits.

I've run the gantlet of Christian denominations. I was raised Catholic until age 10. Following that, my mom took us to a Pentacostal church. Eventually, my husband and I attended Assembly of God churches, as well as non-denom charistmatic churches. We had a 3-year stint in a Messianic body, which was very interesting, and fun. But they did not use the KJV. Use of the KJV became our priority, and that's how we ended up in an independent Baptist church, where we've remained for 14 years.

I've been married to David, my high school sweet heart, for 24 years. He's an engineer and is especially interested in creationism. I'm a homemaker, and am especially interested in five particular creations: our five children, ages 23 down to 6. They are a continual source of delight for David and me. They have been home-, private-, and public-schooled. Three are now in college, one is in 10th grade, and the last is a first-grader.

I am a stay-at-home-mom, though I have worked part-time outside of the home a few times through the years. I don't like working outside of the home, as I just don't have enough time for the extra little things, like one more story, or lingering at bedtime to answer a little one's questions about God. (Why do they always wait until you and they are tired to ask, "How big is heaven... exactly?")

My hobbies? Well, I would like to have some, and I think about that as I taxi the kids about, load the dishwasher, or scrub a toilet. I used to think I was a scrapbooker, but I only did one, our wedding album, and I really haven't done anything since. I like to take snapshots, and organize them. I also enjoy zoos, my favorite animal being the giraffe. I also enjoy writing, and have kept a journal since I was 15. Well, now, I've come up with a few hobbies/interests. Oops - I left out one interest - Danny Kaye. Yep, call me weird, but the man was a performing genius. He was the Jim Carrey of his day, and then some.

What else can I say about myself? I really liked, OK - loved - the movies, Pride and Prejudice (with Colin Firth) and Sense and Sensability (with Emma Thompson). I am very fond of the the book Jane Eyre. I also enjoyed two books recently, by Lisa See, Snow Flower and the Secret Fan and Peony in Love.

I adore babies, and often feel a deep sadness that I can have no more. (hysterectomy, age 40) Still, grandchilren will fill that void...

I hope to make lots of new friends and enjoy the different flavors of other large Christian families out there. (No, I am not a cannibal - you know what I mean ;)

busy, busy

2009-03-02T23:08:00.006-05:00

Seems every day has new demands. I don't have much time to post, so I'll be concise.

Rebekah's play was well cast, and well done. In the role of Elizabeth "Goody" Proctor, she had half the audience in tears. She and her "husband," John Proctor (in the pic) received a standing ovation. I was so proud! Here's a pic -

I got 100% on my case study, Hiding from the White Coats: Mental Health Care in the Post War Years. I just about floated to my car after getting it back. Now I'm working on a critique. Unlike the case study, I've not enjoyed doing the critique. I'm just looking forward to handing it in this week. I hope for a C+.

Noah has a big recital coming up. He has learned three new songs: Go Tell Aunt Rhody, Allegro, and Sakura. Also, he's learned to play Twinkle in the A string.

My father-in-law gave me an evaluation the other day. He said I was "compassionate," and had a "gift for exhortation" and something else, but I can't remember... Anyway, I was very touched.

Seven fire engines flew by our neighborhood this morning. I've watched the local news, off and on, but still haven't learned the cause. After the 4th one went by, I started praying for anyone who may by injured.*

*I found out the next day that it was an electrical fire in a nearby house. The house was just a few feet away from the homes next door, thus the call for so much backup. One man got 2nd degree burns on his face and arms, and is in the hospital. I thank God for sparing his life, and that he didn't get 3rd degree burns. I will continue to pray for his full recovery, and most of all, that he will think about eternity and whether or not he is prepared to die... and that God will draw him to Himself, through His Son, Jesus. Also, I'm so grateful for firefighters, paid and volunteer.

Flee, fly, flu

2009-02-16T22:50:00.003-05:00

Noah has the flu. He took ill on Saturday night, with a fever and stuffy nose. Since he was feverish, and I wanted to rule out strep throat, I took him to the doctor today, and that's where I was told he had the flu. At times like this, I feel that I should have been able to diagnose his ailment, and skip the hassle and co-pay of going to the doctor. Nevertheless, I really cannot know what is wrong with him, and I've found that my "gut" feelings are sometimes off, so I just have to take the safest route. That'll be $30.00 please.

For those who are praying for my brother, please continue. He is going through some very painful days, but still feels God continually tending to his wounds. (He has even been an encouragement to others at this time.) My mom is there with him, sleeping over, and I call and stop in often. I know Steve's friends are there for him too. It still feels like a strange nightmare, but it's finally setting in now, the reality that I won't see my sister-in-law for possibly 40 years. Since the last 20 years went by so fast, perhaps the next 20-40 will too, and it will seem like no time when I say, "Hello, Kajaun! There you are!" and rejoice with her in Heaven.

Becka's play, the Crucible, is this weekend - I can't wait to see her in it! David's parents, Josh, Ben, and I are going down to see her. I know she'll knock our socks off. She's a talented girl. Besides seeing my own little girl in such a big role, Elizabeth Proctor, I'm looking forward to the whole story on stage. I've only seen half the movie, so I never knew how it ended.

Noah's Twinkle Recital

2009-02-09T09:10:00.006-05:00

Noah had his Twinkle recital on the 29th, and did very well. It was in our home, and 17 of us were in the "audience." I arrranged the living room to hold everyone: Nanny, Papaw, Grandpa, Grandma Brenda, Robin, David, Sarah, Becka, Josh, Ben, plus our neighbors and friends down the street, Larissa and Tom, their four kids, and me.

Noah's suzuki cello teacher, Miss Barb, came and accompanied him. She had him enter the living room with an intro, and he introduced each Twinkle and bowed after he did each on. (There were 6 altogether.) He played an encore, Scotland's Burning, with his teacher, in unison and in a round, and then wanted to do another, Hot Cross Buns. I was glad to see him want to add that last one, as it showed he liked performing.

It was an easy crowd - we crowed over him. After he was done, Sarah asked Miss Barb if she could play something, and she did. It was amazing - quick and complex. She's part of a quartet, and her mother was a symphony cellist. When do you get a chance to have professional cellist play in your own home?

After the recital, everyone headed out to the dining room for the coffee, tea, and the desserts I had out. My mother-in-law chatted away with Barb, as they are both sopranos and belonged to the same music club for years. Before I knew it, Mom was playing Sarah's harp.

Here we are afterwards: Barb (right), Noah, and me. We three make up a team, as I have to spend a lot of time with Noah in practice. That's part of the suzuki program. I have to take notes, and learn much of what Noah learns, though he's much better than me because he plays 10x as much.

His next recital will be a big one, at a local music hall. It's the area's Suzuki Association Recital, and all the strings will be there. The cello piece Noah and the other little boy, Silas, will play is Go Tell Aunt Rhody. Barb's older students will join them for it. He's very excited, and picking the song up quickly.

I get my very first big college assignment, a case study, back today. I'm nervous and excited. My next assignment, a critique on an essay, is a bit daunting, but David encouraged me, "Honey, the first time we try anything, it's scary, but you'll know how to do it after this."

Our kitty, Sylvia, has a new home now. It was so cold out I had to bring her in. But two of us, David and Becka, are allergic to her, so I put her in the paper for $50, to weed out people looking for free cats to sell to labs. I hope the guy who took her is happy with her. She'll be his only pet.

Cookie Bars and my case study

2009-02-07T09:04:00.004-05:00

I handed in my case study yesterday. It was about mental health in the post-war years. An hour before class, I changed the thesis statement, which really started out as a question, into more of a statement. Later, however, I realized that it might have been a bad idea to fool with what my husband thought was clever: taking the reader along on a journey of questioning, trying to decide what was right. At the end, after looking into each side of the issue, I gently closed with what I thought was the right answer.

I think I changed the paper because of my prof's first comment on my rough draft. He said the thesis statement was a bit fuzzy. Well, nothing to be done for it now. I hope I get at least a C.

I was very busy yesterday. I think I was trying to distract myself from thinking about Steve and Kajaun. I shopped, cooked, cleaned, and organized photos on my laptop.

For dinner, we had cheddar-garlic burgers. I sprinkled about 2/3 tsp garlic powder (California style, course ground ) and about 1/2 c shredded cheddar into 1.66 lbs of 80/20 hamburger, and cooked them on the gas grill. My neighbors probably think I'm daffy, but I really like grilled food all year long. There's something fun about grilled burgers in February. Note: be careful with the garlic powder - I've ruined burgers by using too much. Start with 1/2 t to 1.5 lbs, and adjust from there. It's like cutting hair - you can always trim more.

I found this recipe online and made it for dessert:

Apple Spice Cookie Bars
http://goodthingscatered.blogspot.com/2008/09/apple-spice-cookie-bars.html

David and I had them with ice cream while we had a date-night-in. It was delicious! They were vey good! ( I had two for breakfast. *blush*)

Sadly, I fell asleep 1/3 into the movie we rented, Bottle Shock, because I had little sleep in me from the night before. I don't even know if David finished it. I only know that I got up, chased Noah up to bed, and then got into my own bed. I let Noah curl up with me, since David wouldn't be coming up anytime soon. He was so happy to get to sleep in our bed, he made one of those dramatic statements that little kids often do: "I love your bed - it's the softest and the warmest - you're the best mom ever!"

I woke up an hour later, to Sarah chattering on her cell with a friend. This is normally OK because I don't go to sleep before 11. I carried Noah to his bed, and was soon back in my own.

I had a dream towards morning, that I was going to be very late for class on Monday. I think it was an anxiety dream.

sad day

2009-02-05T18:39:00.004-05:00

We buried our dear Kajaunie today. It was really hard. I had to remind myself through the day that she was with the Lord, and happier than ever. My brother played a song on the keyboard that he had written for her years ago, a love song, and his friend sang it.

After the service, we drove an hour up to Tower City, to a cemetary in the moutains, that Kajaun liked to visit. Some of her relatives are buried there. After some scripture was read, and a prayer said, Kajaun's big sister released a white dove. It flew high, circled a couple times and flew off over the mountain. It was a lovely reminder of Kajaun's flight into Heaven.

Therefore the redeemed of the LORD shall return, and come with singing unto Zion; and everlasting joy shall be upon their head: they shall obtain gladness and joy; and sorrow and mourning shall flee away.
~Isaiah 51:11

Dancing with Jesus

2009-02-01T21:48:00.004-05:00

My brother called late yesterday morning and told me that Kajaun was dancing with Jesus.

I miss you, Sister, and look forward to seeing you again someday.

The last thing I said to her was, "Goodnight, Sleeping Beauty. I love you." And she was barely able to mouth, "Love you," but it was not needed. I knew it.

On the edge of eternity

2009-01-27T21:50:00.013-05:00

This is K, with Cosmo, in September, before she went into the ICU for septicemia.

My mom called me yesterday, and said she was not doing well. I showered and got right over to see her. A nurse had been there all night, as K was having difficulty breathing. But she was calm when I got there. She's on morphine for discomfort. Her whole family was there. My brother has been continually by her side. Soon, many of our family was there too. My mom, dad, Sarah, and my little sister, Robin. I brought Josh and Ben in later in the day. Rebekah is coming on the train today. It'll take her almost 12 hours to get here.

My mom, K's mom, and Sarah are spending the night. I'm really glad, as Steve won't be alone if something happens.

Another nurse came around noon, and after assessing K, said she was "very close." We knew the Lord could heal her that very day, but we don't have our heads in the sand either. God knows what's best for K, and we are all trusting Him.

K seems to be on the very edge of eternity. This very night, she could be in the presence of her Lord and Maker, and all the Christians who have gone before her. Moses, Isaiah, David, Paul, Peter, John, and later believers such as Keith Green. Her father and step-father await her. I am excited for her! I am heart broken to see her go this soon, but I do want to see her relieved of her diseased body, the shell that holds her sweet spirit.

Martin Luther King, Jr

2009-01-19T22:26:00.003-05:00

Tonight, I read, for the first time, Martin Luther King's "I Have a Dream" speech. It was an assignment from my professor. I was moved by that speech, and imagined what it must have been like to be black at that time, especially in the South. What an awful thing to live in a world of double standards, different bathrooms, drinking fountains, places to sit on a bus. To live in fear of being at the wrong place at the wrong time, and have a crime pinned on you, just because you were black. How foreign that is to us now. I am so thankful for the civil rights movement. It was, as Dr. King pointed out, a hundred years in coming, but his dream has come true.

Cuddle Chat

2009-01-19T09:10:00.004-05:00

Sometimes on mornings like this, when Noah has no school, we have "cuddle chat." We snuggle on the sofa, while I have coffee, and he tells me his thoughts. At bedtime, he asks the big questions, often about God, or tells me his fears. A few nights ago, he asked me if I thought his bed could wrap him up like a mummy, and then become a coffin. He hasn't seen the movie, Mummy, but he has seen a Scooby Doo with a mummy in it. I guess that inspired his fear that night. In response, I knocked on the bed, and said, "Nope, this is just a regular bed; it's not magical. It won't come alive. This was Papaw's bed when he was a boy, and it never came alive then." This seemed to work, as he fell right to sleep.

Barak Obama will be sworn in tomorrow. It's great to see a bi-racial* man become president, but it's frightening that he is also a socialist. I'm dreading the negative changes our country will go through. My British friend, Paula, could probably share with me all about Britain's health care. I've already heard one bad story. I also heard a tale, just the other day, of Canada's socialist healthcare system. A man had done poorly on a stress test, and needed a bypass surgery. He was put on a list, and waited over a month for his "turn." Thankfully, he survived the month. Sadly, the British tale didn't end the same. The gal died waiting for her needed surgery. And this is what is coming our way. I pray that my children and grandchildren survive it.

*I refuse to refer to black or (black and white) bi-racial folks as "African American." I don't require others to call me "Swiss-Irish American" (the two main cultures I come from). If I'm called white, it's not any different to call others "black," though "pale peach" and "brown" would be more appropiate. Maybe I'll start a movement, while we still have free speech, and use these terms from now on. I can see it now, on a form:

Race (check one):

Pale Peach
Pale Pink
Dark Brown
Medium Brown
Light Brown
Olive-tone
Yellow-tone
Red-tone
Other (for example, green, purple...)

Freezing Sylvia

2009-01-18T09:05:00.003-05:00

I have an outdoor cat, Sylvia, a plain vanilla tabby. She used to be an inside cat, but she and Sarah's bunny, Fluffles, began a territory battle. In other words, Sylvia became a naughty-potty kitty. All I could do was kick her out, and provide an insulated box for the chilly nights. But she doesn't use it. The other night, as the temp dropped to about 8 degrees, I began to fret about her. I tried to take her to the Humane Society, but they required a $127 surrender fee! So I have her in the storage room until I can figure out what to do with her.

4:07pm - David, Noah, and I just returned from Circuit City. They had big sales on because they're going out of business. We brought home a new phone system, a remote control for the PS3, and three DVD's: Over the Hedge, Annie, and Wallace and Gromit and the Were-Rabbit. David and Noah are watching the Hedge right now. I'm trying to get away from owning too many movies, as over-watching them makes them not as special. However, some movies are just too good not to own. Annie, for instance. I must be able to watch and hear Carol Burnett sing Little Girls anytime I want. Besides, our VHS collection, which is large, is, as a whole, getting very grainy. A family needs to have a certain amount of movies on hand. Some of our "musts" are:

Lord of the Rings Trilogy
Pride and Prejudice (Colin Firth)
Sense and Sensibility (Emma Thompson, Kate Winslet, Hugh Grant)
Emma (Gwyneth Paltrow)
Gone with the Wind
Singing in the Rain
Oklahoma
The Ten Commandments (Charlton Heston)
The Prince of Egypt
Charlie and the Chocolate Factory
All six Star Wars movies
The Incredibles

That's all I can think of for now. Time to blog-hop.

Christmas Sparklies

2009-01-17T23:51:00.003-05:00

My dad and his wife, Brenda, gave me these lovely earrings on Christmas Eve. They are versatile - I can dress them up or down. They were a complete surprise. I wear them a lot!

Then my sweet hubby gave me this ring on Christmas morning. I LOVE it, and wear it every day. It's a high-quality emerald cut cubic zirconia, set in 14K gold. I get some nice complements on it. It really looks like a diamond.

Christmas day

2009-01-17T23:36:00.007-05:00

I just had to put in a pic of my Polish pottery clock. It was from my mother-in-law. I asked for it especifically, and she ordered sight-unseen. I LOVE it. It is very unique.

A picture album of our holiday

2009-01-17T11:28:00.010-05:00

Order of pictures:

1.Becka and Noah decorate cookies

2. & 3. Becka and Josh make gingerbread houses

4. Ben and his friend, Kelsey, at the school Christmas choral program

5. College kids holiday get-together

6. Christmas Eve, the gift exchange game

7. My step-mother, Brenda, laughing as her sister excitedly explains the rules of the game. My Jewish brother-in-law, David, is on the floor. I think he gets a kick out of our Christmas-ing.

8. My sister, Gayle, a professional photographer, catches the moments forever

9. L-R: Sarah, Grandpa (my Dad), and Erin (my little sister)

10. Noah, visions of sugar plums dance in his head

English Composition 101

2009-01-16T22:55:00.003-05:00

I started class on Wednesday, the 14th. I got there a few minutes early, but most of my classmates were already there. I took a seat in the back row, center, and tried to blend in best I could. My professor is a nice guy, soft-spoken, who enjoys class participation. Our first big assignment is a case study on someone we know. I'm looking forward to getting into that, but I'm not sure who it'll be. It has to be someone I know, not a public figure. It can be a person who has died, and for that reason I'm seriously thinking of one of my two grandmothers.

Rebekah called tonight. She is all healed up from her wisdom teeth surgery. She is busy preparing for her upcoming spring play, as well as a small part in a musical. I'm really looking forward to seeing her in the play. I don't think we'll make the musical, with the long drive. Her big part is in the play, so that's our priority, though I'd love to see her in the musical.

Here's Becka about 2 weeks ago, ice packs in place, following her wisdom teeth-ectomy. Cosmo was her moral support, as well as a handy heat source. Becka had a hard time of it, much more pain that Josh, Sarah, or I did. We all had our wisdoms out within the year. I think she may have more nerve endings in her mouth that the average person. She's doing fine now.

I went to a "Ya-Ya Sisterhood" meeting tonight. This is a group of ladies I have met through my friend, Faith. They often go to movies and have pie afterwards. I've seen two movies with them so far. It has been fun. Women need their times of bonding and general silliness from time to time.

Lately, I am feeling increasingly sorry for my cat. It is freezing cold out, and she must be feeling it! I tried to find her to bring her inside tonight, but she wouldn't come when I called her. I have an insulated box outside for her , but she doesn't use it. I think I'll have to keep her in the basement until it warms up.

I'm reading a book called Fantasy and Your Child. I finished Peony in Love a week ago. It is the second book in 20+ years to make me cry.

I'm looking forward to relaxing this weekend.

Ben's glasses, Noah's cello

2009-01-13T17:31:00.002-05:00

Ben has new glasses. They look smart on him, and he looks smart in them. He's so happy. He lost his last pair some time ago, and we had to wait until this year to get the new pair. (insurance reasons) After we left, Ben very happy to see so well, I was reminded of my own happy sight moment. I was 13 or 14, and had "lost" my 5th grade glasses a couple of years before. My eye-sight worsened to the point that my 6th grade teacher warned me, at least twice: "If you don't get glasses soon, you'll be blind by the time you're 20!" I hid my need for the glasses from my parents. They were distracted at the time, too, as they were going through a separation and later, a divorce. So, if I was careful, and I was, I could get away without wearing the glasses I hated so much. By age 13-1/2 or 14, I had reached a point of desperation in near-sightedness, and told my mother, "Mom, take me to the eye doctor - I can't see good at all!" She did, and he was taken back by my poor eyesight, and the fact that it had not been corrected for so long. When he showed my mom how blurry my vision was, she was also shocked. But as bad as it was, I had to be the one to wear the glasses, and Mom knew that. She knew that my other glasses had gone missing, but I never complained. Somehow, I slipped between the cracks as far as the school eye tests and my mom knowing the truth. (I probably never gave her the letter containing my test results.) Anyway, I'll never forget the thrill of seeing correctly for the first time in 3 years. I loved my glasses, and wore them non-stop. A year later, I started wearing contact lenses. Good sight is a huge blessing. I sometimes wonder about near-sighted people hundreds of years ago, and how hard their bad eye-sight.

Noah takes his cello lesson tonight. His teacher is very pleased with his progress. He can now play five variations on Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star. Also, he knows Scotland's Burning, Hot Cross Buns, and of course, Ants. His teacher is going to teach him Allegro for the upcoming Suzuki area recital, held in a large local orchestra hall. Her students, ages 5 - 16, will all play this piece, with Noah and the other little boy, our front. I'm really looking forward to that. I've already told all the grandparents about it.

Bipple Madness

2009-01-07T12:22:00.004-05:00

Mr. Bipples is the name we often call Cosmo by. Sarah came up with his full name, Cosmond P. Bipples. Mr. Bipples is the result. It does suit him, as he is little and whimpy. This name is perfect. His middle initial, P., is for "pathetic," as that is the look he has on his face much of the time.

From this name, Mr. Bipples, a few terms have come about:

Bipple Bin, his crate, usually untouched.

Bipple Bed, his cozy, usually empty dog-bed.

Bipple Bombs, the "presents" he leaves outside on the grass.

As more are thought up, I'll revise this list.

Mr. Bipples had a bath today. After being banned from the sofa for general stinkiness, I found the source: the Bipple Bin and Bed were soaked. Apparently, Bipple Dripples happened overnight. There, a new Bipple-term.

Bipple Dripple, what happens when a small dog's bladder just can't hold out.

He's giving me the pathetic look even now, wanting to hop into my lap. Unlike Sarah and Rebekah, I just can't stand typing with arms reaching overtop a lapdog.

Happy New Year

2009-01-01T00:14:00.010-05:00

It's 2009 - already? It seems to happen a little faster every year. It seems the older I get, the faster time flies. I must be having some fun!

Firstly, I am thankful that my sister-in-law is still with us in 2009. A month ago, the doctors said that she would probably not see the new year, yet she has. She is a miracle, there in her hospital bed, in the living room of their home. I am continually amazed by God's hand in her and my brother's lives over the last three years. I've seen a lot of spiritual growth in them. I can see how heavily they rely on the Lord for all their needs, and we all see His involvement in the big and small matters of their particular situation.

K started hospice a few weeks back. She is in their home, and my brother is her full-time care-giver. Her mom is there for several hours every day, giving Steve a chance to run errands, or just get a shower. Sometimes he asks my mom or me to bring in groceries. He calls my house once or twice a week, to see if any of us want to hang out or watch a movie. We've enjoyed some rich visits this way. Sarah and Rebekah enjoying watching TV with Aunt K. and they chat and laugh over little things. Rebekah keeps Aunt K's nails looking their best. She pretends that they're in a nail salon. K gets a kick out of that.

I'm thankful for all the blessings of the year. In March, David and I celebrated our 23rd wedding anniversary. We watched each of our kids grow another year older. Josh graduated high school and started college. Ben took up the guitar, and has applied himself every day to playing it better. My in-laws took us to Cape May, along with David's sister, Nancy. It was there that David gave me a lovely diamond ring there, atop the Cape May Lighthouse. Sarah Jane started her last year towards her BSN this fall. We got a new dog, Cosmo, our Boston Terrier. I registered at the local community college, and was accepted for the Spring 2009 semester, where I plan to take English Composition 101. Noah started first grade, and the suzuki cello. These are just some of the year's highlights. I am thankful for all the blessings and provision God has bestowed on us.

What did we do on New Year's Eve? Noah slept over at Nanny and Papaw's house, and the rest of us stayed home and relaxed. Following an easy dinner of Steak-ums and frozen pizza, I made a pot of Starbucks coffee, and we all collected in the family room to play Apples to Apples. We "lit" the HD on-demand "fireplace," which crackles away, with or without music, for 30 minutes, and played and laughed through this game of providing the best nouns for a chosen adjective. It sounds like an English lesson, but is really a fun game!

After the game, we put on Raising Arizona. By this time, I was ready for bed. After tossing and turning for two hours, I began to slip under, when Pop! Bang! - fireworks were going off across the river, close to our home, and I looked at the clock to see 12:00 - it was 2009! I came downstairs to kiss David, and found my family scattered about. Ben was playing with a new gadget from the Dollar Tree. Josh and David were playing video games on two different TV's. Sarah had her nose in a book, and Rebekah was in bed.

Rebekah and Maisy were sick today. Both were sick to their stomachs, and Rebekah had a headache as well. I don't know if Rebekah had a migraine or a virus, but I know why Maisy was sick. I gave her a ham bone the night before, and she ate the whole thing before I knew it. Apparently, small dogs and large bones don't mix. The bone made a reappearance, all over the house. Lesson learned.

I must list my favorite Christmas presents:

1. Diamond earrings from my father and his wife, a complete surprise, and they are perfect for dressing up or down. A very touching gift that I will always treasure.

2. An emerald cut cz 14K gold ring from David, just what I asked for. I love it! I wear it on my right ring finger.

3. 1995 BBC/A&E Pride and Prejudice, from my mother-in-law. An amazing mini-series, one of my top 10 favorite movies.

4. A Polish pottery clock, also from my mother-in-law. It is unusual and perfect for our cozy family room.

5. Big checks from the Dads. Most useful of all, especially with three kids in college.
I'm feeling real sleepiness coming on. I hope and pray I get eight hours tonight. I've not slept well for about a week. Not really sure why...

insomnia

2008-12-28T10:14:00.003-05:00

I am having a days-long streak of insomnia. This is probably why I have laryngitis.
I won't speak today or tomorrow, if I can help it. Noah has caught cold again, and we are both staying home from church. I really don't feel too bad, except for a general low-grade tiredness, from lack of sleep. I would go to church, but I know I'll end up talking a little, and I need to get better. Going to that party last night finished my voice off. I couldn't avoid going. There were too many people we normally don't see a lot. David's brother and his wife, as well as many aunts, uncles, and cousins. It was enriching to be with everyone. For the most part, I enjoy David's relatives. There's always one difficult one in the bunch, but with proper technique, this one is easily avoided. Keep it light and polite and move to the next person asap.

This is all for now. Cosmo has dominated my lap, and I have some serious tv-watching to do.

Laryngitis

2008-12-27T23:42:00.002-05:00

I have no voice. My voice box is swollen and unhappy. It wouldn't have been so bad if I hadn't just gone to a party. It was the annual Christmas-time party at my in-laws', made up of the very fun and interesting relatives from my mother-in-law's side of the family. There's no way a chatty gal like me is going to let a little thing like a hoarse voice stop her from socializing. The sound of my voice was awful, so I talked low when I did talk. As soon as I got home, I realized how bad my voice have become. I looked up laryngitis on the net and learned that I shouldn't talk or even whisper, for a couple days! So I'm writing notes, and the kids are fascinated by this, along with my silence. Rebekah is the most attuned to my meaning if my written words aren't enough.

Christmas Eve!

2008-12-24T09:27:00.005-05:00

It's "Christmas Eve Day!" Tonight, we head to my father and step-mother's for the annual Christmas Eve party. It has been held by my father's family for as long as I can remember.

My father became the official Christmas Eve host when the crowd began to outgrow his big sister's home, in the early 1970's. We had a large, new home, and it was great for entertaining. I remember the excitement of that day: the cooking, cleaning and extra touches of Christmas decor. A fire was started in the family room fireplace, something unusual and therefore special. (Not gas, it was the real thing.)

Before running out to do last-minute shopping, my father would announce, "If this house isn't clean by 5:00, I'm calling off Christmas Eve!" He announced this around 1pm, and there was quite a scramble. He then left to do some last minute shopping. The bulk of the cleaning fell to Wendy and Gayle, as Steve and I, four and five years younger, were not much help those first few years. After a flurry of cleaning by us kids and food prep by my mom, the finishing touch would be done: Dad spackling the hole formed by a leak in the foyer ceiling. This was right after he came back from shopping, arms full of bags of gifts for our aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Because he worked in a men's and boys' clothing store in his early twenties, Dad had an eye for what would look and fit best. (I remember a warm coat he bought for Aunt Gerry - she seemed very pleased with it.) Dad and Mom would take the gifts upstairs and in minutes, have beautifully wrapped all of them, and have placed them under the tree.

Mom would put out her wonderful punch, which we only tasted on this occasion. Cookies and other finger-foods were spread over our dining room table, and we excitedly awaited our relatives arrival. I remember being dressed up, looking about the living room, which was dim but for the tree and the electric candles on the window sill. It was magical. Sometimes I would lie down underneath the tree and look up into it. My favorite ornaments, sparkly little gingerbread houses, dangled above me. They were foam at the core, having survived my toddler years. (I had a fondness for throwing the glass balls, especially the red ones, down the slate hall and watching them smash.)

The air seemed alive with happiness when the relatives finally did arrive. Aunt Joan, "Uncle" Harry, Grandma and Grandpa, Aunt Gerry, Uncle Bill, Uncle Bob, Aunt Franny, and many of my cousins, the older ones with their boyfriends. Their arrival thrilled me. "Uncle" Harry smoked Garcia and Vega cigars, and to this day, that smell makes me feel good. He would spike Mom's punch with vodka when she wasn't looking. (Eventually, she learned to make two punches, so that one would be safe for the kids.) Mom brought out the fruitcake she'd been basting with rum for weeks, and that was savored by the adults, though I thought it was icky.

After gorging on cookies, my favorite being the Magic Cookie Bars Aunt Gerry brought, we kids would end up in our finished basement playing pool and pranking each other. My cousin, Billy, had a sharp wit, and I always looked forward to hearing him tweak others with it.

Soon it was time to open gifts, and what a joy that was! My parents would often let us open one gift from them, along with the ones from the aunts and uncles. Aunt Joan's gifts were always unique. One year she gave me a leather change purse that was pressed and shaped like a coyote. I loved it! I remember the time she sewed a life-sized rag-doll man with elastic on his feet for Gayle, that she could dance with. I believe Gayle named him "Harvey." Another Christmas she sewed a large porpoise for me that I loved for years.

As the evening wore on, Aunt Gerry and Uncle Bill took their kids home, "Uncle" Harry lit another cigar, and Steve and I were tucked in. I think the party continued for a while, but I was wiped out. My father once took a picture of me, asleep in bed after that party, with a punch-clown-smile. How happy I was drifting off, knowing that the next morning would bring more toys!

Now my kids are all excited, especially Noah. One thing he talks about through the year is spending Christmas Eve with his best friend and cousin, Michael. They will laugh and play all evening until it's time to open gifts, then they'll play with their gifts together.

The "Christmas Pastor"

2008-12-17T22:32:00.003-05:00

Ever since hearing Dicken's Christmas Carol, and then seeing an old B&W version of it, Noah has worried about the "Christmas Pastor." I think he got this name from the Ghost of Christmas Past. Tonight, he asked me, once again, "Are you sure the Christmas Pastor won't come in my room tonight?" I assured him he wouldn't, and that there was no such person anyway - someone made him up for a story...

Now, just to illustrate the magical thinking of a 6-year-old, he responded, "I'm so afraid the Christmas Pastor is gonna come and make me wear chains and heavy things so I can't walk!" I realized at this point he had combined Jacob Marley with the Ghost of Christmas Past. Again, I reassured him there was no Christmas Pastor for real. "Do you promise?" I did. He settled down, and fell asleep as I sang Truly Scrumptious to him. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CBvPvEBqhX4

They like me - they really like me!

2008-12-17T08:53:00.009-05:00

My college placement test results were better than I expected. And this did worlds of good to my rather shaky self-esteem. I had to fight back tears as my counselor, Greg, went on and on about my results. They like me - they really like me! He said he hardly ever saw a score that high on the Reading Comprehension test. It was 113. This was on the Accuplacer test. My writing score was 101, also high. He felt I could very well klep out of English Composition 101, and said I could try that. But he also felt I should take it anyway, since I haven't been in school for 23 years, and this is my first college experience. I understand there's a lot of writing in the course, so I know I'll enjoy it, even if it's a little easier than I need. Sarah and Rebekah want me klep out, and take English Comp 102. My mom and sister, who both enjoyed the course, said to stay in it. I still have to talk to David...

This and that / update on K

2008-12-16T09:35:00.002-05:00

Well, it happened. My beloved laptop was invaded by a rogue spyware, Antivirus 2009. It started with pop-ups windows warning me that it was time to download it, as viruses were detected in my pc. I felt funny about it right away, spotted a misspelling, and ran it down to David. He tried to reject the pop-ups, and even tried to remove the [insert pc term/s that I am not fluent in] from my laptop, but they came back the next day. I got strange loud bleeeeps, and then the dreaded "blue screen of death." We researched it, and found that others, going to the most benign sites, also got it. One girl was simply researching dog behavior for a homework assignment.

So now I am using David's desktop. He will frown upon this, especially since Ben's laptop just had a "major stroke" this morning and wouldn't even start up right. David will fear us all using his jealously-guarded "Larry." (Ben's is Curly, mine's Moe - I hate that.) He has reason to guard it. He does all our banking and bills from it. So I must abstain from unnecessary surfing (like this). I'm glad I've got a good book on hand...

In other news, I took my college placement tests last week, and I see a counselor today. I'm so excited! (I think I did OK on the tests...)

Ben is sick with what may be pneumonia, but the results aren't in. He's not wiped-out sick, but just not better from the sinusitis and pharyngitis he was diagnosed with last week, despite taking Ceftin for a week. He looks peaked, and is lacking some energy. Plus he has a cough. His doctor heard a rattle yesterday that he didn't hear last week. So he sent us off to get bloodwork (looking for micoplasma) and a chest X-ray. He'll call me today. If he deems, Ben will go on Biaxin to battle pneumonia. Otherwise, he'll finish out the Ceftin. The doctor said it could be a virus, and that it can take 10-14 days to shake.

My sister-in-law, K, is home in hospice care. She's had pneumonia for about a month now. The doctors have said she may not see New Year's, but we know that God's time-table can be very different. She was given 3-6 months at the beginning of this whole thing, 3 years ago. She made it out of the ICU a couple months ago, when she had a blood infection. Anymore, I take the doctor's words with a grain of salt. They only know what they've seen before, but miracles do happen. Ben's doctor happens to be a pediatric hematologist, and he told me that he's seen scans where tumors had been, but were no more. The parents had done nothing different - the tumors were gone. What an encouragement that was! I was so happy to share this with my brother. Please continue to pray for K and my brother. She has some pain, and is very tired, somewhat from the morphine, but her sweet smile is ever-present. She has such a gentle personality. I am so glad she is home now, enjoying her home, her dogs, and the season. Please pray for good rest, energy, strength, peace, and organization ability for my brother, as he is her main care-giver. Between his boss keeping him on the payroll, and insurance, and my father meeting their financial needs, he is able to do this. And that is a huge blessing. Her mom is also there alot, and I know that's a big help and comfort. I have offered to come one day a week, but he's not sure yet. Aids come 4-5 times a week, and a nurse comes in once a week. K is on "full code" right now, because she and my brother are looking for a miracle. That means every effort will be made to save her if she goes into major distress. Many people in hospice decide to be "DNR - do not resucitate" but K feels that is not the right thing for her. My brother supports whatever she wants to do.

Ouch!

2008-12-03T22:42:00.002-05:00

Today was not a fun day for hubby. He had an ingrown toenail removed. I stayed with him through the numbing shots, but I scooted out for the operation. If he had wanted me to stay, I would've. But he didn't want me to see him in pain/distress, and frankly I didn't want to see a toenail taken off! He limped out afterwards into the waiting room, and joked to all the senior citizens seated, "All I'd have to do is groan, and I could clear this whole room." This evoked some chuckles. Even in pain, he's still got it.

It's funny how we all are. Sarah, like David, also hates to be seen in pain or distress. She jokes that if she could, she would give birth alone, only rejoining the family when she had herself pulled together, and had the baby all cleaned up. I, on the other hand, want someone with me in my pain. When I had a pulmonary embolism six years ago, I had trouble sleeping, what with medical personnel in and out all day. But then my mom got to town, and came in to see me. After a brief greeting/visit, I fell into a peaceful sleep to the sound of her reading the Psalms.

Phantom Fascination

2008-12-01T17:45:00.006-05:00

Noah is watching (and hearing!) the Phantom of the Opera. He loves this movie, what he's allowed to watch of it. He plays two of the movie's songs on the piano, in different modes. He plays whichever "mode" (piano, organ, strings, choir) fits the song. For example, the Phantom of the Opera is played in organ mode, but he plays Angel of Music as strings. He's working on a new tune, Think of Me. He'll probably spend a week or so working it out, and then will practice it a lot. I love that. I'd rather see him picking out tunes than staring at the tv or playing video games. He's doing well on the cello, going at a good pace. (He has three variations of Twinkle down.) I think we may add on formal piano lessons in a couple of years. I'm delighted that he's playing the cello and piano. I think music is a real joy for him, as it is for David, the older kids, and me.

Because I had the four older kids within six years, I can't always remember who did what when they were little. It seems to me that they all enjoyed picking out tunes on the piano like Noah does. David and I did it too. Now all of my kids play instruments: Sarah, harp, Rebekah, flute and piano, Josh, piano, Ben, guitar, and Noah, cello and piano.

I found a bow and arrow and I learned to shoot. I found a little horn and I learned to toot. Now I can shoot and toot, ain't I cute? ~Danny Kaye in The Court Jester

My "Curious" broke out

2008-11-29T16:09:00.007-05:00

"My curious broke out of my mind - I couldn't hold it any longer." This is what Noah said after he opened a gift his cousin, Elizabeth brought him for Christmas. He was supposed to wait until Christmas. It was a matchbox car, and he loves it. He just called her to thank her.

My nieces, Jenny and Elizabeth, spent the day with us today while my sister and brother-in-law worked. We got a tree last night, so they helped decorate it today. It came out really well, especially after I found two more boxes of balls to add on. I just need candy canes and it'll be complete.

Rebekah loves Cosmo. He's in her lap every moment. She's constantly telling us, "Look at him - look at him! Look how he's laying." She's gonna miss him when she goes back to school.

Pass the pumpkin pie

2008-11-27T13:41:00.005-05:00

It's a beautiful day, and we will soon leave for Nanny and Papaw's for the big meal. My father and little sister, Erin, joined us for breakfast this morning. I made waffles with strawberry sauce or syrup, bacon, juice, and coffee. I think I enjoyed the kitchen chat while preparing the food more than the actual meal. Erin and Dad were in and out of the kitchen, talking with me as I poured waffles.

After breakfast, Noah, Dad, and I took the dogs for a walk. Dad stood and looked at the view of the city he's worked in for almost fifty years. We quized Noah on the name of the city, the river in front of it, and various prominent buildings. As we continued on, I pointed out different homes, and interesting stories that went along with them. Here is one such story. The elderly lady across the street, Elsie, shared it with me:

Elsie and her husband, Bill, had seven children. The family next-door to them had six. The mother next door, Mrs. Greenawalt, went by the nickname, "Greenie." She was a bundle of energy, taking in ironing, besides being an excellent housekeeper. She was very aware of neighborhood happenings, and watched the comings and goings of everyone through a window by which she ironed. I imagine she listened to the radio while she ironed, like I watch TV. Greenie always had the scoop. If a strange car was parked on the street, she soon ferreted out the why's and wherefore's. Elsie wasn't as on top of things outside her home, only finding out local news from Greenie while they hung laundry in their backyards. One day, Elsie's husband offered to buy her a clothes dryer, to ease her workload. "Oh no!" she exclaimed, "I wouldn't have to hang laundry then, and I'd miss all the gossip from Greenie!"

Dad shed some light on a local tradegy. Before I could, he pointed out a certain house. "I knew the man who lived there. He was one of my clients." (Dad's a stock-broker.) I told him that a man committed suicide there. "That was my client," he said, "He had suffered from chronic back pain for years, and finally couldn't take it anymore. He was in his 50's." How sad.

Back at the house, we all watched the dog show, looking for a Boston and a Sheltie, our dog's breeds. The pointer won. She was beautiful.

I made 2 pumpkin pies to take to my in-laws.

My brother, Steve, and his wife, K, will spend the holiday at the hospital. Her mom is bringing food in, to have a little celebration there.

Time to go to Nanny and Papaw's.

Disney World Hyjinks

2008-11-26T16:29:00.006-05:00

I just read about a great family trip. http://whettenhappenings.blogspot.com/ I was so impressed that this large family had no mishaps on their trip. I note this because back in 1998, we joined my dad, step-mother, and my twin half-sisters on their annual trip to Disney World, FL. Actually, they took us there, and it was quite a treat!

As soon as we got off the plane, we were herded into a waiting limo which took us to an amazing hotel inside the "country" of Disney. It was called the Beach and Yacht Club. It was a two-part establishment, and I believe we were in the Yacht part. The lobby was amazing. We just walked around with mouths agape, like in those movies where a child finds himself in such a place and looks up and around. Just like that. Only we weren't being filmed. From this location, we could walk to Epcot, watch fireworks every night on a man-made beach, or go to the "boardwalk," especially nice at night. We also took buses or boats to various parks, no charge. There was no driving. Everything was imaculate. Until we arrived...

It all started on the first day, as we lounged around the pool. My little sister, Robin, wasn't very active, and my step-mother, Brenda, told me she was sick to her stomach. Poor thing. I hoped she felt better soon. The next day was nice. We spent the day at the original park, the one with the castle. But the next day, at Blizzard Beach, a crack began to form on the perfect porcelain vase that was our dream vacation. It was my dad, on a lounge chair, not feeling too good. This is rare; Dad's constitution is excellent. He boasts on not having thrown up since 1963! But he looked a little green around the gils on this day, and finally took a bus back to the Yacht Club, where he promptly crawled into bed, and stayed there for two days.

That night, the real action began. David and Ben began throwing up. I believe Erin, my other little sister, was also feeling sick. By the next day, some of us were better, but Josh and Rebekah were sick. And they were the ones to make quite an impression with that sickness. I wasn't there for Rebekah's big moment, but I understand it was dramatic. She, Erin, and Sarah, were going down the elevator to the lobby. Rebekah may have been in that certain denial we all go through just before we throw up, for I just can't believe she would've left the room otherwise. She got separated from Sarah and Erin, and found herself alone in a moving elevator. She suddenly threw up right on the middle of the elevator floor. And then the door opened to a mother and daughter who just looked at her, wide-eyed, and then the door closed. The next time it opened, there were Sarah and Erin. This is when I was called in, "Mom! Rebekah threw up in the elevator!" I ran to find her, and also found the faithful Disney employees who were cleaning up the mess, smiles on their faces, "Don't worry, Ma'am, we'll take care of it." They reminded me of the actors on the Truman Show, who would move in, ad-lib, and save a scene that was going south. I was grateful. Rebekah felt better by morning. But we noticed that her "splash" had etched its silhouette on the marble elevator floor. That was a topic of much discussion. It was buffed out the next day! Disney gets first place for OCD! While relatives with this disorder can be annoying, it is an asset at a resort.

Josh had also taken ill that night, but felt better by morning. Or so we thought. We walked in to Beaches N Cream for breakfast, and sat down across from Brenda. "How are you, Josh?" she asked. He answered with a gush! in the middle of the table. Again those Disnians were spot in the scene, cleaning away happily.

I now have to share my own emabarrassing incident. The bug got me as I was taking six-year-old Ben around Animal Kingdom. He had just bought a stuffed tree-frog, and carried it in a bag. Within 30 minutes, that bag would save the day. As my stomach began to churn, I knew it was time to find a bus back to the hotel. I walked so fast, with Ben is hand, he nearly lifted off the ground. The bus available was full, and Ben had to sit on my lap. The man beside me must have seen my discomfort, because he took his own 2-3 year old into his lap, making the seat available for Ben. As I broke out in a sweat, I knew what was coming. Among strangers, on a crowded bus. There would be no hiding it. I took Ben's frog out of the bag, and held the bag as close as I could to my face. It was a strurdy bag, and it held up well. The people in the bus acted like nothing was happening, full of pity, no doubt. Within minutes, we were off the bus, and I made a deposit in the nearest trach can. I just had to realize that I'd never see those people again.

Despite all the illness drama, we did manage to have a good time. Here's a pic of all the kids. The biggest kids are Erin and Robin, and the littlest is Ben, looking up under Goofy's nose. Inbetween are Sarah, Rebekah, and Josh.

I am thankful

2008-11-26T08:16:00.004-05:00

Today I escort my husband home from a toenail removal, then make pumpkin pies, then get the family ready for a portrait this evening. We're even going to have to dogs in the portrait, as they are so much a part of the family.

I'm thinking about what I'm thankful for.

1. My wonderful husband. He's strong in every area where I'm weak. He adores me. He's a great dad and provider. I have much respect for his insight and intelligence. What more can I say?

2. My five children. Each is a joy in their own way. I loved having babies to hold and snuggle, and then they started to talk. And it seemed each stage was better than the previous one. The teen years were't as bad as I thought they would be. I really enjoy being with my older kids. I love being a mom. It's my dream-job.

3. My parents. I've learned so much from them. They loved and provided for me. They made me who I am, even genetically. I am muscular and energetic like my dad. I think outside of the box and am sentimental like my mom.

4. My siblings, all five of them. I enjoy good relationships with all of them. We are all different, even in looks, and that makes for a colorful "quilt," not unlike the crazy quilt our grandma used to make.

5. Loving in-laws. This is a real blessing from what I understand. In-laws can be a source of problems, but not mine. They have been very good to us, and they adore our children, and I am very thankful for that.

6. Dear friends. I love my friends, and they vary so much. They provideLike my siblings, each adds a different flavor to my life.

7. Surviving a pulmonary embolism in 2002, folling Noah's birth. I remember the sobering moment that reporter David Bloom, in his early 40's died from the same thing while in Iraq. That really affected me, and I was more thankful, looking at my five kids, from infant to 16, knowing how much they needed me.

8. My dogs. I've always derived great pleasure from animals, from the time I was little. My mom always said I had a "way" with them. I've had gerbils, fish, tadpoles/toads, a parakeet, dogs, and cats. I even bred Ragdoll cats for a couple years, until David developed bad allergies to them.

9. My home. It's old and full of character, and has amazing views of my fair city. I love to walk in my hilly neighborhood. Being older, the homes are older and interesting, as well as the lay-out of the neighorhood. We have a little creek and a hollow, as well as one of the area's best parks, also with a beautiful view.

Quiet evening

2008-11-25T21:11:00.003-05:00

I just tucked Noah in. He's listening to a tape, The Polar Express. We did his homework and read a book about police cars, and off to bed he went. He told me was having upsetting thoughts about something he saw on TV, so I taught him the Favorite Things song, encouraging him to think of happy things. What were his happy things? The things he wants for Christmas: Wall-E, a Nerf dart gun, and other stuff I can't remember. These toys all just run together in my mind. Anyway, he seemed OK with that strategy, and the tape served as a good distraction.

The rest of the family is out shopping, so I find myself in the quiet of the family room, the only noises, Maisy chewing her bone, and the mantle clock chiming St. Michael's. It's really nice, actually. Don't get me wrong. I love having a family. But this quiet, and the freedom to do whatever I want, choose my own TV show or listen to music without someone turning on the TV in the next room, even read or write in the the quiet - it's very peaceful and calming. I think perhaps every mom should have this once a week. I sometimes go to the library for this. But it's nice to enjoy quiet in my own home.

2008-11-24T09:14:00.004-05:00

ही, माय नेम इस जिल। इ ऍम सो हैप्पी तो बे अबले तो टाइप इन हिन्दी! इ लव थे इंडियन पीपुल। इ'वे बब्य्सत फॉर अन इंडियन कपल, एंड हद अ कपल ऑफ़ इंडियन फ्रिएंड्स। इ फंड थेम वैरी ग्रासिओउस। माय ओने फ्रेंड, बशोबी, तौघ्त में हाउ तो मके चाय, एंड एवेरी टाइम इ मके आईटी, इ थिंक ऑफ़ हेर।
I just wrote in Hindi. I wrote that I have an affection for Indian people, and have always enjoyed my friendships with them. They are very gracious. One friend, Bashobi, taught me how to make chai, and every time I make it, I think of her. As a teenager, I babysat for an Indian couple, and enjoyed being in their home. I loved their two little girls, Shumona and Sujata. Shumona is now involved in making movies, though not an actress. I don't know what Sujata is up to. I'll have to find Shumona again and ask her. Their mom, Sarla, was so sweet, and often asked me about my mother. She was concerned for her after her divorce from my father. I found that very touching, and I think my mom appreciated her concern too.

Today is catch-up day, time to see what needs washed, bought, etc, after goofing off for the weekend. Since I went to the store on Saturday, my cupboards are full, so that's off my list.

Going to the grocery store on Saturdays is always an adventure. It's always crowded, so just getting through the aisles is a challenge. I often park my cart at one end and weave in and out of people to grab what I need. Here are the types of people I find in the grocery store:

1. The older man. Polite and helpful, slow and careful in choosing items. But I find that sweet, especially if they are helping their wife.

2. The middle-aged man. They think they own the aisle, and often leave their carts in the middle, or worse, cock-eyed, affectively blocking passage through. In an effort to get through, and also to teach, I just move the cart to the side. Some of them are polite, but most are driven to accomplish their task.

3. The middle-aged woman who is married and/or has kids. This is my category, and my favorite to shop along-side. They park their carts considerately, tight to one side, and keep an eye out for someone who needs to get something off the shelf that the cart is blocking. They say things like, "Sorry about that." and "Excuse me" the most. For example, if they must walk between a shopper and the shelf they're looking over, they'll say, " 'Scuse me." in a soft voice. Some men, from 30+ do this too. (Younger men rarely do.)

4. The single woman. I hate to say this, but this is my least favorite of the types. Some
are nice, often the college students. But the confident career gals, ummm... Most are dressed very stylish, and seem not to notice others. One glared at me the other day when I backed into the cart she tried to squeeze behind me. She didn't give me a "Sorry!" back when I said sorry. Get over yourself, lady. I'm sorry if this offends, but it is what it is.

5. The older woman. Usually polite, but slow in choosing. With all the constant change in the placement of items, this is understandable. (I find that I'm getting slower every year. ) It often seems that the trip to the store is the highlight of their week. (OK, sometimes it is for me too.) I enjoy chatting with some of these gals. And they always smile at my children , even if they're being a little bratty.

6. The teens and kids. Some are nice, but most are "all about them." This is self-explanatory. I remember being a brat in the store. I use the store's babysitting service every chance I get. Once I ran into a friend who was without her child. After I asked after her, she told me, "Oh, she's in the orpanage." This friend always has a joke, usually dry, so I got a good laugh. Her city accent just adds to her comments.

In other news, the Amish Friendship Bread-making has fallen to the wayside. We went through 3 cycles, then got neglectful. Oh well, at least I was able to pass starter to about 6 people, thus spreading the joy.