Is It over Already???

I can't believe it is the 30th already. Only one more day of 2008.
I wonder what I did that affected anyone else. Weather negatively or positively. I am on the look out for negative thoughts, (I try to avoid them). They can mess with the spirit. The true spirit we have inside our hearts and lives.
"What so ever things are good and honest think on these things."

Today I woke to an empty house. My son and DIL went home yesterday with their five little loves. My daughter is at her In Laws until Thursday then we take them to the airport.
We spent last evening with them having Round Table Pizza. Something they cannot get in Oklahoma. We all went to the Sears home for this get together, then we came home alone. I watched TV with my feet up and David slept.
Our Christmas was a lot of fun. Lots of laughter and kids picking at each other. I am referring to my Grown kids picking at each other. Ken and Sher are both quick witted and they take full advantage of it with each other.
The little ones did great together. 7 children below the age of 8. With two older ones, one at 11 and one at 14. They were pretty much on their own. M at 11 is 5'7" and D is 5' 6" . Evan at 10 spent most of his time with the older ones. He is very mature in his thinking. We all love to get him laughing as his laugh is so contagious.
Most of the time the little ones spent playing Hulk and just laughing, I do not believe I heard one cross word out of any child. They love each other so much, It is amazing to watch them together. They flew air planes, played with cars and just talked, Talked about the Amazing Hulk and how strong each Super Hero is and who can beat who in the Super Hero Race.
They ran in occasionally and ate a sandwich or a cookie and back to play they went. At times they did run outside to play in the soft mist. They would come in with their feet and lower jeans wet from the grass. Did they care? No! They thought it was great to be out and running.
Did the parents care? No! They wanted the children to laugh and play as they did as children.

If we can only recall our days of childhood, we can understand children better. We have to dig deep to recall the laughter of childhood. With some of us, Not so deep. After all some of us are still children at heart. (That would be me).
As for me I let the entire house go the entire week. I was just relaxing and soaking in each moment with my loved ones.

At times I have thought "If only I could share some of what I feel or some of the happiness I have".
Then the selfish part of me takes over and I do not want to lose any of my happiness, what is I share it and there is not enough for me? I have to remember Happiness is like a butterfly, so evasive, but if you sit very still, it may light on you and warm your heart.
How can you share something that is so easy to attain? As easy as the gift we unwrapped on Christmas morning. Or the gift we are given when a child smiles at us.
I can only say I found my gift of happiness when I was given a new lease on life to live, A life to live for God and I believe my presence is here for a specific reason.
I may never know why God let me live when my heart was so bad. So bad, the doctors all told me it is usually found as a cause of death in an autopsy.
It has now been six years (since open Heart surgery) and I am so thankful for each day I have.
I hope to make each moment count for God.
I want everyone to remember me for my positive outlook. My deep Love for my family and friends.
Whatever the reason he let me live, I pray it has encouraged someone in some small way.

Did I sound like a proud Mamaw or Mama? Well I am.

Christmas Eve

Lyrics by John Lennon

So this is Christmas.
And what have you done ?
Another year over
and a new one just begun.
And so this is Christmas.
I hope you have fun,
the near and the dear ones,
the old and the young.
A very merry Christmas
and a happy new year.
Let's hope it's a good one
without any fear.

And so this is Christmas
for weak and for strong,
for rich and the poor ones.
The road is so long.
And so happy Christmas
for black and for white,
for yellow and red ones.
Let's stop all the fight.
A very merry Christmas
and a happy new year.
Let's hope it's a good one
without any fear.


Merry Christmas everyone.
We are sitting here ALONE, All alone. Now don't weep for us, Our home will be Full for a week. Tomorrow we pick up our Daughter in Sacramento, she is flying in with her beautiful family.
The next day our Son from YC drives in with his family. Also an adorable family. Of course I am Grandma and I can think that, but I have had a very good source tell me the same thing. A totally unbiased person.
Sadly our Son in Seattle will not make it down, the weather is so bad, I would not want them driving over those mountain passes.
So tomorrow we get up to our gifts to each other. Our gift of happiness and intense love.
We have some house work to do but not a lot, Then on our way to see my SIL and on to the airport.
It is snowing in Lakehead, we were going to my good friends house for a big family dinner and gift party but not in that snow. No one needs to drive on ice and snow and I-5 is probably closed.
So plans changed the McLemores are hosting the party. I say Bring it on, I have always loved doing this and my house is open and holds a lot, Good thing too, I figure a minimum of 35. More if they want to come.

I LOVE IT, I love a good party and having my friends and family in.
That gives me day after Christmas to do my shopping for the party. We also do a gift exchange with a game so that is always a lot of fun. The last time we hosted it we had a game called, "Christmas with the Right Family" It was hilarious as each time right or left was read off, we had to pass the gift to our right or left. Never knowing what we would end up with.
Since my husbands name is Wright it was very appropriate. We are the Right family.
I have to plan the menu and make a few calls to be sure everyone knows the party has moved due to weather, and make sure everyone knows my home is open to all family and friends and we welcome their presence.

So this is Christmas, and what have we done ?

I hope each of you know what we have incredible love in our hearts for each of you and all our readers.

Today sounded like a good Day

To bake.

I bet you can see what I did ALL DAY. Yes, ten hours of baking and dipping and mixing and cleaning and never leaving the kitchen, (well almost never). I did compute a little while. Had to check on my family blogs.


Tray in front holds apple cakes and pumpkin cakes, I made these in the shape of Roses, (my signature).
To the right is a tray of "Cup of everything cookie", (to the left and above) Gingerbread cookies, Nut covered Nut balls, Chocolate Maple balls, Sinckerdoodles, Persimmon cookies, Roca, Marble fudge, Rum balls, (in tin) and a tray of Rose Cakes and breads.
On the counter I have a bowl of Neiman Marcus cookies, (to bake) I finally called it a day, after 10 hours on my feet.
What a job!!! My back hurts, my head hurts, I am so tired and dirty, (well not dirty as that is not a good thing to say when you have spent the day in the kitchen)
I do not like to go barefoot so I went through two pair of socks today, Just to keep my feet clean.
I detest walking in spilled flour, sugar or the likes of.
OK I admit it I am pretty messy when I bake. Right Sheri?? She is so much better at neatness in baking than I am.
But I do not like to stop once I get it going, I want to get it made, baked and then I clean or better yet, Wait until David comes home and he does the cleaning.
That is exactly what I did too, He cleaned while he sampled.
I do not know how he keeps from being so sick. I did not sample one item, until I was totally through and I had to try the persimmon cookies.
I can live without them.
They are good, just not something I love.
Oh Yes, Coy and Lou, Only two of the persimmons are ripe.
For the record, While they (Coy and Lou) were here in November, we stopped at a home that sells Persimmons, beautiful persimmons. Coy went in and bought six of them. He took a lot of pain picking out the best looking, However, Best looking is not ripe.
They have taken this long to ripen and I still have firm persimmons in the fruit tray.

So with that I close and maybe just put my feet up.

Goodnight All.

Our weekend, Nothing special.

Today I have to get back to baking. I am not doing Great. My heart hurt all weekend, Like someone has hit me in the chest and left a bruise. (no it is not bruised).

David and I did accomplish a little baking on Saturday then I was wiped out. So we sat and watched movies. Real Tear Jerkers.
I used half a box of Kleenex in three movies. first we watched "The Christmas Shoes," Man that one got to me first, Then we watched "The Note". Again Grab the Kleenex. Another one I cant recall the name yet, "Prancer" and "Silver Bells". By the time I went to bed my nose was so plugged from crying. (yes crying plugs my nose, I blow and blow but to no avail).
David even shed quite a few tears.
Sunday we just had to shop, so we sat until noon then grabbed a bite and out the door we go. David had been so lazy (me too) we had not even taken out garbage since Wednesday night. We had to get that done.
Finally we find what we are looking for, Finally. We are done.
No on to Safeway to buy five items. Safeway has a self check out now and I use it, I love it but I told David I wont get to see Vern any more if I use it all time. Vern and I always talk and he ask how the honeymooners are. (that is David and I).
So our day was pretty busy, I would have been out longer had I not taken my nitro, I guess I will see my cardiologist after the holidays. Who knows I may feel better when the pressure is off.
So that is our weekend, watching a lot of television, (it was cold outside) and baking and shopping. Now I can totally kick back.
Right!!!!

When Will I Bake?

Since Monday I have tried to do some baking, Just anything would be helpful. However every day I just do not feel like it, I am not sick, just not into baking.
My counter is loaded with flour, sugar, (of all varieties) nuts, (again all varieties) spices, and recipes.
I did have to shop a day this week,I think that was Tuesday.
David and I had our flu shots scheduled for Thursday. I figured a trip in, see the insurance agent, buy a gift or two, and home. We left home at 130 and did not get back until seven PM.
While in town We saw the doctor, had our shots then on to the Mall. Suddenly my sugar was dropping and dropping fast. I can always tell, as I get really sick and shaky and HAVE to Eat. I made it into the food court and had a subway sandwich, still not enough sugar to raise my level. We made it down to Sees Candy and I had one piece of candy, it took a few minutes but I could feel the shakes leaving. I was ticked as now I am ready to shop and it was time for the app to the insurance agent.
To make matters worse it is so Cold, Really cold and David is shivering. (He just cant handle the cold).
We see Kimberly and decided to stay right where we are in insurance. Big waste of time. Now on to shop.
I get to the Mall again and we begin to look around. I need two things, Think I can find it? Nope. Not a one.
By now I am so wiped out, I must get home.
Today I woke sick, Yep, Thank you flu shot. I have a backache and a tummy ache and generally feel horrible. So no baking again.
Tonight we have a company party. David is going to be all decked out and I think I will wear my Red Scottish plaid with black tights.
According to how warm the outfit is, I am cold today too.
We actually had sleet on Wednesday night. Burr. last night it blew against the back of the house, You could hear the ice hit.
Today we have glorious sunshine.
I have plans for tomorrow and David will be helping. He will eat while I work. No really he can help make the maple and rum balls. Plus the chocolate dipping and the Roca. Lots to do but it is OK, we can do it all, once I start it will go fast.
Just getting started is the problem.
Now to get off my duff and begin getting ready for the party. Na I think I will make it to the living room and sit.

For My M

I saw this on My Granddaughters blog, and decided to post it here:
Join if you want, Ms was cute, mine was harder than you may think.

What you do is Answer all this stuff... each answer has to have the first letter of your name in it. And you can also try it with a diff. letter!
You can also look some of the answers up if you want:

1. Your name: Sue
2. Famous singer/band: Supremes
3. 4 letter word: Stop
4. Animal: Smokey (my cat) or Snapping Turtle,
5. Color: Sienna
6. Gifts/Present: Singing lessons
7. Vehicle: Subaru? Spelling is off I am sure
8. Things in a souvenir shop: Samples
9. Boy name: Sam
10. Girl name: Savannah
11. Movie: Some like it Hot
12. Drink: Soda
13. An occupation: Secretary
14. Flower: Black Eyed Susan
15. Celebrity: Susan Serrandon
16. Magazine: Sports Illustrated
17. US City: Shreveport La
18. Pro sports team: Sun devils
19. Fruit: Strawberry
20.Something you throw away: Soot
21. Thing you shout: Shoot!!!!
22. Cartoon character: Scooby Doo

Sliding Home for the Holidays

My daughter over at The Shades of Pink posted about her ride home last night. In North east Oklahoma they have ice and lots of it. Last night was especially bad.
So as I said, she had a sliding experience. It brought back memories of our slide in 1967.

We had been living in California for 1 1/2years with no visits back to Arkansas. I missed my family and I had a new baby my Mom had not seen.
We decided to go. Heck in those days, we never even gave the quality of the car or the tires a second thought, I guess you can include weather in that too. (since we did not check the weather reports).
We had the car fixed the day we left, I think it was a fuel pump.
We had planned on an early start but David had to get that fixed. (last minute)
Now we are slowed down, we were invited to a friends house for dinner, she made chicken fried steak, She had gifts for the boys. (Daisy and Joe Whiteside) They wanted to tell us good by.
I called and explained it was going to be really late, she did not care. "Just come on over when you get ready, Joe and I will be here whenever"
OK we arrive there after dark, Maybe about 5 or 6 PM.
Next we head to Red Bluff to pick up Davids Mom, she is traveling with us, to see her sisters.
As we arrive she has a Grandchild with her, She thinks he should be allowed to go.
NO WAY! David said emphatically NO!!
Another set back, We take "Little Allen" to another brothers house and finally we are on the road. We are exhausted after this long day.
All these set backs should have been a warning.
We drive all night and end up at Tehachapie early morning. As we step out of the car I hit a bunch of ice and slip, I am holding my baby so I protect him. David helps his Mom so she will not fall. Charles is enthralled by the beauty of the ice world we are in.
OK we are on a mountain top, as soon as we get off the mountain, the weather will clear.
Think So?
After breakfast we begin our descent down the mountain, The weather does clear but our car is having problems.
David goes to a shop and they will fix it. OK we rent a room and warm up and wait for the car. About three in the morning David comes in and says, Honey the weather is getting colder and a front is coming in, we should beat it out of here.
We load up and drive, Snow begins to fall, Snow begins to fall Hard and Fast and Big.
We are in a White Station wagon, Snow is white.
As we drive slowly down the road, trying desperately to find a motel, We are running out of towns, We stop at every dive on the road and nothing is open. No one is facing this weather.No one but us crazies and a few truck drivers.
As we begin our travel down Route 66, we try to stay in ruts carved by trucks and other cars. We have chains on, Chains that have broken and are hitting the underside of the car. (I think we put those on in Flagstaff Arizona.)
David is driving really slow and careful, He has four extra lives in his care.
Oh did I mention David had his arm in a sling. He had broken it in March and it had not healed properly, so he had to have an operation to repair the bone.
So he is driving one handed.
Suddenly a big truck moves us off the road. I think he did not see us, We were white remember.
As David moves to avoid being hit, he loses control, We turn around and around between the two highways. David says , "Hold on to the babies", Mom is holding on to Charles, I have Ken in my arms. Child seats were not heard of then. Well good ones, ours hooked over the front seat.
We cry out "God help us"

After several 360's, The car suddenly straightened up, headed in the direction we were headed. Perfect pull out of the slide. It felt surreal, like we just had a bad dream and woke up in perfect peace.
We make it to the next town, Joseph City Arizona. We see a motel open. We stop, they have a room and we stay. We stay and stay, We stay for 5 days, snowbound in Joseph City Arizona. A place that is literally no place. However the people were kind and we had hot food and they helped us with the bottles and even made food for us free of charge. They allowed me use of their laundry to keep the diapers washed, David spent a lot of time in the car, listening to the weather and road reports.
David Charles and I spent a few afternoons, walking around town, or community. We saw Big Tex a snowman that was at least 12 feet tall. We saw all the holiday decorations, We listened to the juke box at the restaurant. The hit song of the time, was, "I Hear Little Rock Calling"
Truly that was the song we heard every day, We would laugh and say, "Man if we could only get to Little Rock we would be 30 miles from home. "
Finally the road opened to the east. We were in the car and out of there as quickly as we could possible go.
Finally we arrive on dry roads and we are so tried, but we did not dare stop again. We would not stop until we are in my Moms driveway. Well except to buy gas and food and coffee.
So Yes I know how horrifying a skid can be.
We never get in our car to make trip that we do not pray Gods hand on us as we travel.
We have been through the worse of it and we made the best of a Very bad situation. God was in control.
We did not go home the same route we went out, We went across 900 miles of Texas, rather than the panhandle. Then over 900 miles of California. We had about 100 or so of each of the other two states. But we had no snow or ice.

The Stockings were Hung

The year was 1974 or 1975. We had no fireplace, so we hung our stockings on the wall. As we hung the boys stocking, s they wondered why Mom and Dad had none.
I never had a stocking to hang. As a kid, we always used out shoes to show Santa where our spot was.
That is an old German tradition. ( I think, you may correct me if I am wrong)
So here we were with no stockings on the wall. The boys were about 10 and 7 so David and I decided we would hang stockings.
I dove into the dresser drawers and found a pair of Stockings, (pantie Hose) David found a pair of black socks. We laughingly hung them on the wall.
The boys had a lot of laughs about Moms stockings and Dads sock.
However that is not the end of the story.
We lived by some very unsavory people. The boys were always in trouble with the police or doing something evil. One day they broke into our wash room and stole our pop bottles. That was a pretty good haul for them.
Another time I heard someone walking on our roof. Yep it was the kids. His name was , OK wont say. , and if you look up his name I am sure he is in prison for theft and possibly murder. He, was pretty messed up. However he was a kid and kids do things.
One day, after the stockings were hung, and the big cedar tree in the front yard was full of lights. I noticed something awry.
I had plugged in my outside tree lights, Only half the tree lit up. I went out to check the connection. Imagine my surprise when the lights were not only "not lit up", they were gone. Gone as in stolen.
We called the police. As the officer sat in our living room making out his report, I suddenly looked up.
There in all its glory were my Pantie Hose, not only hung, but hung from each side of the waist band to show the full body of the garment.
I was mortified.
What could I do, I pretended not to notice. As he left I yelled. "Oh MY Gosh look at the wall."
The guys rolled on the floor in laughter.
To make matters even worse, the policeman was a man David knew, And we ran into him often. In fact we ran into him a few weeks ago.

Today they still laugh at that one snafu.
So today if I don't have a stocking, I do not hang a Stocking. (pantyhose).

Oh Christmas Tree

I promised a photo of the tree. I know I should have someone in that chair, surrounded by a lot of smiling chidlren. Maybe that will happen soon.

I think the tree turned out Great, What do you think? A little on the skinny side but that is the kind I love, no big space to hog while displaying the grandeur or the holidays.

I have tried for two days to post a photo, So I am forwarding it to my daughter to add to this post. My old slow dial up is just that, Old Slow Dial Up.

Time to Rest

After a full day of labor I am ready to sit a while. I did the same thing, 38 years ago tomorrow. My baby will be 38 years old. Wow how did that happen?
However today's labor was a little (lot) different.
Today we began by having a good breakfast. Then on to the task at hand. I cleared the kitchen and began on decorating the house. David went outside to clean the pool.
OH MY LORD, there were so many leaves in the pool and hot tub. He had a full day of cleaning. I took the full day to decorate the tree and the kitchen dropped ceiling. Up and Down a Ladder, is very hard on the back. Take my word for it.
When we finished around one PM we showered and headed to town to pick up medicine. I had been out of one for a week and finally had them approved. There is Always a break down between the pharmacy and the doctor, each blames the other. I don't really care who is at fault. I know each area could do something different but machines are just that, Machines.
We did a tiny bit of shopping then I asked David to take me to Olive Garden. We shared a plate of food and an appetizer order, only to bring half of it home with us.
We have left overs for tomorrow. Right now I am wiped out. I really want to sleep but it is too early.
As soon as I finish the furniture placement I will take a photo of the tree.
(the gold tree). Well sort of, it is decorated in Gold, I left the Spiral of Poinsettias off this year. Well I left it off, so far.
Who knows what tomorrow will bring! With me, who knows what the next minute will bring.
I had a very busy week. I cleaned the old garage, then the garage on the new house and moved lots of junk to the old garage. It looks nice still. Wonder how long that will last?
hummmm
Until we need to begin piling junk back up there. Why do we accumulate so much STUFF?
Next was cleaning the house, totally, and finishing two quilts and PUTTING THE SEWING MACHINE AWAY!!! Yes I finally put it away, no more sewing (STUFF) in the living area. YEA!!!!!
It felt so good to finally complete those quilts. Now that pressure is gone.
Now I can finally get my plants in the ground. I only bought them a month or so ago.
And maybe the roses trimmed back for winter. I have been so lax this year. They did not get the care I usually give them. Poor little babies.
OK that is my day or week, However you look at it.

Happy Birthday Sheri, Talk to you tomorrow.
Love you all.

Merry Christmas

At this time of year we are reminded of the Birth of Christ. During Easter we are reminded of his Crucifixion. We are taught of his teaching in the temple at the age of twelve.

What about all the years before the teaching in the temple.

As I watched the "Passion of The Christ" I was made to weep for the child.

When he fell, his Mom picked him up and cuddled him, kissed his head and felt his pain.

I wonder at his growing experience. Did he grow and learn as we did? Did he have illness as a regular child of the earth did?

How many friends did he run outside with only to be admonished by his Mom that Work had to be done first?

I wonder at the boy, I know the baby, and the man but I wonder at his majesty as a boy.



We know his time had not come until the wedding feast when he turned the water into wine.

He at that time admonished his Mom telling her, "Woman what am I to do with you, It is not my time?"

Wine? Yes, it was wine, it was the New wine, it was perfect for a beautiful feast.
I would love to have drank of that wine.

However today, I drink of his majesty in many more ways. I can feel him all around me in anything I do. I can feel his tender touch when I am in pain emotionally or spiritually.
I know him as he is, not as he was.

I know him as my Savior and my guide, Not as the baby in a manger, Not as a man on a cross. The cross is gone, the Grave was opened wide. He walked among men for a few days, then ascended into Heaven to Save our Souls.

I love to think of him as a child though. As you pass children in the street or look into your own babies eyes. Remember his Mom looked at him and when she kissed him, she kissed the face of God.

When you kiss your babies, it is a place an angel kissed as God handed that child to you. You owe it to that child to teach them all you can of Gods Love.

How else will they know? The world is trying to take that away from us and we as Christians sit idly by and let it happen. I make it a point to say Merry Christmas to everyone I meet.
NO one can take that away. My voice is a voice given by My God.
A voice to glorify his name.

Merry Christmas

Jesus is The Reason

With the news of the previous post, My Son in Law and Daughter and four children are flying home for Christmas holidays.
While that is great news, the reason is sad. However we will never give up hope.
I was debating on a tree this year, as we are alone most of the time, so today I pulled it out. Or rather, David pulled it out of storage for me. Now to decorate and get this house smelling and looking like Christmas around here, and remembering the reason for the season.

Jesus is the Reason for the Season

I have decorated the entry with spiral trees, poinsettias and garland. I Love this time of year, I love to bake lots of goodies, I love to see my friends, I love the colors of Christmas. Anyone that knows me will tell you, "Sue Decorates a lot with Red" so this gives me more red to work with.

Today I spent the entire day cleaning the old garage and putting it back in order. It looks so nice in there.
Coy, while here painted the bathroom for me and helped Ron with some of the work. That was a nice treat. We painted the interior last weekend and I finally put it in order today.
I even washed off everything before it went back into the garage.
While working I had K-Love on and listened to my Positive Encouraging music. I encourage each of you to find it in your area. It is a feel good station, gospel music and prayer for callers.
To think I almost sold that stereo unit. I found it when we moved here and it was in the garbage. I took it in, cleaned it, and wired it back together. All I can do is listen to the radio, the 8 track or record player does not work but having that radio is a blessing. ( I bet some of you do not know what an 8 track is.)
So on to my daughters visit, She will be here on the 25Th. We will have a late dinner with Ken arriving the same day or so. ( I think). That way everyone can have Christmas at home with the children opening their presents under their own tree.

We want everyone to know, whatever is fine with us. We are just here when you need us and love being part of your lives.

Our tree will be ready and pumpkin pies will be cooling. Fudge and Rum balls and Almond Roca will be on trays with Loads of cookies. Ken will get his Blueberry pie and David will get his Fudge. That is what he looks forward to. Fudge!! As for me I can't eat any of it. Maybe a nibble wont hurt. Fa La La La La, La La La La.

So off to start dinner, Then once I sit tonight I may not get up for hours and hours. May even fall asleep in my chair.

Hope and Faith

Today I sit here with a heavy heart. My body and mind can not comprehend the news. One of our Dearest friends has been fighting Lung Cancer this year, he had a partial removal last year, at this same time. For several years he's also been battling bladder cancer. Today he is home after having 7 brain tumors removed. They have found more in his rib and vertebrae.
These friends share four of our Grandchildren. We are so proud of these kids, that is the focus of our conversations. Dave, (the FIL) often says, "If all families raised their children as Mike and Sheri raise theirs, the World would be a much better place".
(Mike is their son, Sheri is our Daughter).
Over the years our lives have taken so many parallels. We have each been married 45 years, Same month within a week of each other. Ages of the Dads are the same. Our Babies married each other. We both have strong faith in God. We both believe in clean wholesome living, while putting family at the top of the list. We do not think of what we may want or need, our children must have theirs first. We share all we have.
I am believing Dave is going to fight this with all his mind, body, soul and spirit. I believe enough for him, (I pray).
Dave and Gwena have become people we love so much, we feel as if we have known them forever. While it has only been 18 years. They are as much a part of our lives as our friends of 42 years.
It is that kind of bond we feel.
We both had a moment of prayer and sadness when we got the call.
However we know he can fight this.
Dave has a niece that I met this year, she too had lung cancer, or has lung cancer. Here she came to California, Bald head and all to see the world. She was laughing and saying how blessed she was. We loved her outlook so much. I think Diane is still doing good. She did go to Disneyland and she spent time with her Brother, on to Redding to be at a Family Birthday Party. That is where I met her. That is where she told me I had a beautiful daughter and I looked like her. Ahhhh Made me feel good, she then said, "I was told if I tell you that you will say, Oh but she is beautiful but I don't think I am, Well let me tell you, You are."
I thought that was terribly considerate.
So back to Dave. I know we all must hold him up in prayer. He is in need of it but more than healing for his body, Healing for his spirit to give him HOPE.

He will cover you with his feathers, and under his wings you will find refuge." Psalms 91:4

I will quiet my heart and rest in his presence-
The Lord longs to heal and restore me.
I'll take my strength from his love and find hope in believing
New Blessing of joy lie before me.

Continued 1956

Christmas Eve was here, the entire house was a bustle of activity. Mama had the old pie safe loaded with pies and cakes and goodies. It is cold in Arkansas and with no central heat the safe was fine for keeping things fresh and cold. Plus we had screens on the door opening to keep any stray bugs out. Mama was very particular about that. No bugs or flies on her food.
The turkey was already out and being cut for the big day.
We did not have the typical roasted turkey, we had Turkey Tenders. (even before the rest of the world heard of them.)
So today would be spent assembling all the ingredients for the dressing , vegetables and the turkey and or ham.
We were anxious to get to town, Santa was due to arrive on the fire truck. As soon as breakfast was over, we put our warm clothes on with coats, hats and mittens. It was sooooo exciting.
Santa made his usual appearance while the parents separated to do their shopping. We were told to wait right where we were for Santa. Some adult was always in supervision. We paid little attention, we just wanted to see Santa and get our free fruit and candy.
I am sure Santa helped my Mom and Dad get all the necessary items for us, how else would he know I had fallen in love with a doll, a doll named "Sweet Sue" One by the McCall company.
I know I did not ask for her, I only saw her high on a shelf in "Hendons Five and Dime" store.
I looked into her eyes and I am sure my Dad saw me. We did not ask for things, We knew money was not prolific in our home and we were happy anyway.
Afternoon was falling and the weather was cooling off. We better get home and begin the food prep.
Our Aunts and Uncles and numerous cousins came over. We all snacked the rest of the day, whatever we could find, which was usually a cold biscuit, peanut butter or fried bologna. some sweets were allowed. We had our haul from the Santa Claus so we had fruit and nuts.
With all the excitement, who could be hungry? I recall my Mom saying "It is hard to be hungry when you are so excited, I am not hungry myself."
As evening wore on, the excitement was building. The children were in the bedrooms talking, dreaming, and scheming. Trying to recall if we had really been good that year.
OH Man I hope Santa did not know I had a smart mouth. I did good in school so maybe that would help.
That Christmas I recall my Dad walking across the street to shop the "Western Auto" a hardware store and Mama hit the five and dime. My Dad did not do a lot of walking, this was not a good day for him. I could tell he was taking it easier today.
When we got home he spent the biggest part of the day in his rocker and visited with friends and family as they stopped by. I only recall him getting up to get food or take a trip to the outhouse.
Otherwise he was pretty idle. I did hear his barreling laughter and I would smile, wondering what joke he had pulled on someone. When we needed a nut cracked we took them to Daddy, he could often break them with his big strong hands but often used a little hammer.
My Mom was busy in the kitchen, making lots of pans of cornbread. By the time she was done, we had a huge dishpan full of cornbread, crumbled ready for Turkey stock. That would come tomorrow. Preparation was vital to a more relaxed Christmas day.
We were all in the girls bedroom.
Suddenly!!! Suddenly!!!! He was there. Santa was at the window, watching us. We all ran to the window screaming as he disappeared out of sight. We ran to our parents, We were so excited it is a wonder we could contain ourselves. I looked around. I had to know. Every man was accounted for. NO one was missing.
It really was Santa, It really was. He was coming to our house. He must have been checking to see if we were asleep.
Our parents told us it was time to settle down. Who could settle down? I wanted to go to bed, I knew Santa could not come to our house if we were awake.
However we had a problem. My Uncles, Aunts, and Cousins were still there. It would be rude to go to bed with guest in the house.
I did all I knew to do, "Hey Aunt Sylvia when are y'all going home, so Santa can come".
Whoops got in trouble for that one.
"Mama Santa won't come until we go to bed and we cant go to bed with them here" Again Trouble. I had to apologize but I did not feel it. Today I am sorry I was so rude but I always known as "Catfish" All mouth and no brains.
I know I had a big mouth and I am surprised Santa did not just pass me by.
But that night Santa was watching me, he really paid a visit to our house.
So do I believe in Santa, You bet I do, Santa is a matter of the heart and child like minds we should determine to keep.
Years later I asked my Mom, "Who was Santa that night?" She said,
"It was Santa, of course, you know all the men folk were inside."
Yes I did.
Thank you Mama for keeping that innocence and magic in my heart forever.
Even now at 62 I believe a real Santa was at my house, watching and waiting.

The spirit of Christmas lives on in my heart forever.
We never know what little thing we do for a child lives forever in their hearts and mind.
Even as adults, we appreciate so much the love of our friends, neighbors and strangers on the streets.
Greet each one with a smile and see how much greater your day goes. It is amazing Love you feel.
Determine to wake up and say, "Today the world is mine to make a better place for everyone I meet."

Merry Christmas

Christmas 1956

It was Cold, so cold your cheeks turned red from the cold. It felt good to let the air nip your nose and toes.
I always had a pair of mittens, not gloves, but mittens, I had a muffler and a hat. I had to wear undershirts under my dresses and if it was really cold I had to wear a pair of my brothers jeans, under my dress. (we were not allowed to wear pants) I Protested that one.
Another one I protested was a pair of argyle socks my Mom bought me while I was in first grade. They were so ugly, (at least to miss prim and proper I was a girl I did not want to wear boy colors), They were brown, with a pattern on them. They were very warm. I recall having a tantrum when she made me put them on for school. I always lost and wore the socks to school. So once I was out of sight I rolled them down into a big donut at my ankles, That had to look even worse than a pair of brown socks.
I was stubborn, I can say that much.
If I had to wear the boys jeans under my dress, when I got to school I rolled the legs up under my dress so no one would know I had on boy pants. (That had to look as horrible as the brown donuts at my ankles.)
Imagine that, A skinny frizz haired blond, brown donuts at her ankles, a bunch of something under her dress and no front teeth.
I was a sight I am sure.
Why no teeth? I lost all my front teeth at once. My uncles even nicknamed me Grandma.
But this year was 1956 and I was now ten and a lot more mature.
Right. About as mature as I am now.
I still believe in Santa I still believe in the spirit of the season and the excitement that comes with knowing our greatest gift was given by our Savior.
I ran into the house, Christmas vacation had just began. I could smell the fruit. Mama told me it was my imagination but I have a very keen sense of smell.
I searched anyway but not too closely, I still loved the excitement of not knowing it all. I still do not want to know it all, I want to have illusions of Christmas and a little fat man arriving at my house and leaving a treasure or two.
We had a couple of big weeks ahead. Lots of good food to cook, family to visit, gifts to buy and our Trip into town on Christmas Eve to see Santa Claus. That was the biggest thrill of all, Until Until something happened that night so special, It is burned in my memory.
A beautiful, loving memory.
Read next post to find out more.

Memories

Light the corners of my mind,
Misty Water colored memories.


As I watched "Santa Clause" last night, I had a flood of memories. I wonder why you do that as you age. I guess the memories are so sweet they must explode in your vision.

I grew up in a very small town and Christmas was such a treat for country kids. AT that time the population was probably less than a thousand.
We did not go to town often and then it was for necessities.

Every year at this time we drove into town, stood on the Court House Square and waited impatiently for Santa to Arrive.

At Christmas everything changed. Bells were ringing, Children were singing, (OH yes that is me singing). Every Christmas song I could think of.
When Santa was due to arrive, we all gathered on the square. Santa always arrived on a fire truck. I can still hear my parents say, "Look Look here he comes" (as all little eyes turned to the blip of a siren).
We would stand in line for our bag of candy, nuts apple and orange. They were loving placed in brown bags by elves and those little elves never knew the joy that one act was bringing to my heart.
The entire town joined in on songs, (if they wanted).
One Year my Mom decided we should be on the big truck and sing for the crowd. I made all the arrangements.
I think we bombed. LOL
I never think what I do is quite right. It always needs perfecting.
To begin with, when I stepped on the semi trailer, I jumped and hit the MC in the mouth with my head. I am sure he had a fat lip.
My debut was ruined.
My Mom bought us matching outfits. Rosie, Jeanette and myself.
The outfits were Light Gray Chanel jackets with a pleated skirt and hats. We were so cute. I would love to see a photo of that time, but alas we had no cameras.
So as I watched "Santa Clause" I saw the parents pointing and talking to the children. I knew what they were saying, (although it was background scenes).
Look Look Here he comes.!
There's Santa!!

HUH Just Chattering

What was the good news, You say?
The thyroid tumor appears stable. YEAH. Just test every year to watch growth and I am to watch for changes.
Praise the Lord.

He is so good to me,

He is so good to me,

When I am down,

he comforts me,

he is so good to me.

So now what is up today?

I picked up my two quilts yesterday and worked on them until I got to tired to sit on the floor any longer. My Job was to square them up for a binding. My binding is cut and mostly sewn together, I just need to press it and put it on then off in the mail they go.

YEAH one more thing out of the way.

Two quilts to go. That is my chore for today, as long as I stay out of bed.

I am a lot better, still not a big voice. David is having to walk up and look in my face when I speak otherwise he does not hear me, Guess we will get into lip reading.

Right now I am having my coffee and cereal. I am avoiding the cough meds until I have to, it makes me sleepy. Codeine!!! I do sleep at night, Sleep is a big plus in recouping from an illness.

My baby sister again has Sepsis, She has been sick for a few weeks and needs prayer.

She only weighs 80 lbs and that is BAD, she needs weight to get healthy and stay healthy.

I have dealt with this bacteria in my own family and warned her it will come back, so stay aware of any changes.

David had it in 2001 and today, he will get bacteria in his bladder very easily. We are on constant alert and catch it before it goes too far.

Oh Man my house is in great need of cleaning, I have not accomplished a thing since we got home from Washington. Not one thing. Not even a full meal.

Did I tell you, I picked up a box of apples is Oregon for 20 dollars. They are, without a doubt the biggest Red Delicious I have ever seen. In addition I have a case of Comice Pears.

David is looking forward to a pear cobbler.

Leave it to me to add to my work load.

Well I did give you the good news and you can see all of it is good.

Good that I am up and kicking today. Kicking lower and slower but kicking.

Hubby MeMe

Hubby meme:..

I found this meme over at Sheri's TheShadesofpink and liked the new twist on the old meme, so I figured, what the hay, may as well play along.

1. He's sitting in front of the TV, what is on the screen?
If not the back of his eyelids, Football or ESPN to get the latest scores.


2. You're out to eat; what kind of dressing does he get on his salad?
Blue Cheese

3. What's one food he doesn't like? Sweet peas!!!!!

4. You go out to the bar. What does he order? We don't go to bars.

5. Where did he go to high school? Sheridan High Sheridan Arkansas.

6. What size shoe does he wear? 9/10

7. If he was to collect anything, what would it be?
Honestly nothing I can think of or know of after 45 years.
Maybe Dust?

8. What is his favorite type of sandwich? Reuben on Rye from San Francisco Deli

9. What would he eat every day if he could? Beans and Cornbread

10. What is his favorite cereal? Grape Nuts.

11. What would he never wear? Thongs (as in sandals)Or the other one either.

12. What is his favorite sports team? Arkansas Razorbacks

13. Who did he vote for?
The winner!!!!!! ALWAYS!!! NOT, We do not do politics in discussions. Bad Idea.

14. Who is his best friend? God and Me, then his children then his family. He loves everybody. Seriously he does. He respects everyone, At least their rights to a full happy life.

15. What is something you do that he wishes you wouldn't do?
He thinks I work too hard, too many hours with no rest.

16. How many states has he lived in? : Arkansas, California, Maryland, Texas and Iceland.

17. What is his heritage? Scotch Irish

18. You bake him a cake for his birthday; what would it be?Strawberry with fresh strawberries.

19. Did he play sports in high school? NO

20. What could he spend hours doing.
Napping then saying I was not asleep, In summer he loves cleaning the pool and watch the sparkle.

21. What's something cool about him? He Is/Was an accountant. However he was not the stuffy kind. He was funny and every day of our lives he woke with a smile and whistling. Not one day do I recall him getting up with a frown on his face. I think that is pretty cool.

Good News

Well one holiday down, one to go. This one involves the inevitable parties and dinners.
We arrived home yesterday from Washington, We left on Tuesday so it has been a long few days. I am not a good traveler, but I did begin riding with a pillow under my behind and it helps.
I do not have any fat there so the bone next to skin gets pretty uncomfortable.
No problems this time. I was prepared, Thanks to my sisters suggestion.
However right now I can barely talk above a whisper. I am seeing my doctor tomorrow.
It seems I have bronchitis again. I looked at my medication bottle and realized it was only two months ago I had it filled.
Time flies but it seems like several months. I was sure it was about 5 months ago.
I called to get antibiotics and a refill on my cough medicine. Shiela said, I want to see you, your voice sounds bad, so In I Go.

Theory, I do not need to leave home, ever again.

Every time I am in crowds or around dirty places I get sick.
Shelle and I went to Winco in Federal Way. I can tell you, That is the dirtiest store I have ever been in. EVER. I can only call it filthy. It also had wall to wall people that were not much cleaner.
Perhaps that is where I picked it up.
Being in that moist, moldy, mildew environment did not help the situation at all. Washinton is a lot like the south in the fact there is little sunshine to dry out the air and trees and flower beds.
I just have to accept the fact that I have a low threshold to germs and should not take chances with my health.
We did have a great thanksgiving, We made apple dumplings the night before and I took my relish down to be shared. the original plans were to eat out but in case of a plan change I had my relish. David asked was I taking it into the restaurant with me, I responded "Yes and if they want my recipe I will charge for it."
The boys love it so much,. Joe made another batch while I supervised.

For dinner we had Turkey and all the trimmings, (with the exception of homemade dressing). We did have stove top which is an acceptable substitute.
However I agree with my son in YC and my Daughter in OK.
I am not sure what we will have but it will be a turn from the same old turkey dinners. I may stuff a boneless breast and bake it filled with herbs and corn bread dressing. Baked and served with a fruit glaze. (saw that on a cook show)
That sounds good to me, NO BONES TO DISPOSE OF.
On Thursday night I had planned on going shopping with Shelle on Friday
but told her I was too tired to get up that early. She called at 830 and found I was still in bed.
I felt horrible and knew I had something coming on.
David and I spent the day watching Mark and Mindy reruns. it was so refreshing. No bad language, nudity ETC. It just consisted of lame humor. A 1978 form of humor.
We also went to see our Grandson in the RJC. He was doing well. I did get him to laugh when I told him of Mork and Mindy, plus he had a hard time when we walked in, it was all he could do to stop tears from falling.
Of course how could he not with Mamaw almost breaking down. He told me his last weigh in he has lost 70 lbs. I just pray he is given alcolades for his loss and looking good. He was pretty proud of it.
He is also working on his diploma, He told me it gives him a goal. I say way to go Josh, that is what each of us need, a Goal for our lives. If we have no goal day to day, we have no hope. Our main goal is a home in Heaven, that is a great goal to strive for, therefore hope.

Saturday we started the trip home. We stopped when we wanted but the trip took forever. We arrived home on Sunday around three.
On the way home, we found several good buys so we did buy a few Christmas gifts. Plus a great pair of shoes for David,. I just hope they help his feet. They are Dr. Martens.
Sheri did you read that, They are DR. MARTENS.
They were on a huge after thanksgiving sale.
So right now I am sort of catching up. I spent the day in bed, only up to eat breakfast and do a little payroll but I am now ready to lie back down.
We missed you all on Thursday but we did spend a holiday with our son in Washington. I can not recall the last time I left home on a holiday.
It was a nice change. Left home as in Traveled a long distance. Yes we do go to YC but that is still in California.
OH OH as soon as we hit the pass to drive into California we had Sun, Beautiful Sunshine.
First time we had sun in almost a week.