Roses

This is my running rose. I love it, the Rose is a Zephirine Drouhin. It is a thornless Runner.

Being thornless makes it a joy to work with. I have two, one on each side of my archway.

That is my path to my back yard and gardens. I have over 38 rose bushes and a Lavender rose hedge. J and P Simplicity Hedge Rose.

As you may or may not know I love roses and all they stand for.

I once heard, "Why did God put thorns on a rose bush?"

God actually put Roses on a thorn bush. (at least that is the way I see it)

We may face trials with many thorns but we always have a rose at the end. A rose, a promise of something better. A reason to rejoice as in Isaiah.

"The wilderness and the solitary place shall be glad for them,

and the desert shall rejoice and blossom as the rose."

Isaiah

A friend gave me a book on Roses a few years ago and I often read the quotes from this book. I find it uplifting and it give me a chance to enjoy the beauty of roses in the off season.

"He who has beautiful roses in their garden must have beautiful roses in his heart."

Dean Hole

"What's in a name? That which we call a rose.

By any other name would smell as sweet."

William Shakespeare from Romeo and Juliet

My personal favorite.

I come to the garden alone,

while the dew is still on the roses,

And the voice I hear

falling on my ear,

The Son of God discloses.

And he walks with me

and he talks with me,

and he tells me I am his own,

and the joy we share as we tarry there,

none other has ever known.

Words

Are sometimes hard to come by.
Last night David asked me about my Thyroid.
He was trying to think of the word. He said,
"Will you be able to make Noise, if they take it out?" He meant talk.
We both had a good laugh.
Noise? I am sure that is exactly what he was thinking.
I do make a lot of noise, especially when he gets home and I want to talk. He has talked himself out and I am jabbering about everything and anything.
What I did that day, (which is usually not much), What we need to get done around here, like get the garden plowed up. Plant some Lavender, I purchased Three very beautiful bushes at 3 33 each.
I need, No I have to get out there and put my soak er line in for my Cannas. They desperately need it, besides we had cool weather and one such cold front killed the new leaves. They are now putting out new leaves again. I want to work my Rose Garden but not sure if I have the energy. I know it looks bad, since the freeze burned a few of the new leaves there too and browned the rose buds.
I have to get my Tomato plants in, I want beautiful tomatoes and a lot of peas. I may put in corn again. You know this indecision is hard on me. I can never make a commitment to any thing until I just do something.
Do not ask me to commit. I just can't do that. Even deciding what to cook some days is a challenge. That is why I love to cook for two or three days at a time. Makes life so much easier. Add a fresh vegetable and you are set. Better yet drink a V=8 and you have you veggies.
We had Chicken the last three evenings. good too. Just leftover chicken and David took it in his lunch two of the days. All I cooked were five thighs and one half boneless, skinless breast. I cut them up to make more, like the breast becomes two pieces and the thighs become ten or less according to their size.
Now I have to think of dinner tonight and I am not interested. David has been eating so little, he pushes his plate back on the table and says I am not really hungry. Yesterday we added a baked potato with fresh chives, (from my garden) and one piece of chicken, and a V-8.
It is so easy to see why old people have to watch their food value intake. It is easy to not eat, or eat too little.
I need to have training from my Daughters MIL, she is a genius at preparing balanced meals in a very quick manner.
So for today, I think I will go back to bed and rest a while. Not a crime, I can do that. Not easily but if I am tired, I am tired. Might as well give in. Don't you think?

Heavy Load

I think I am mentally exhausted. I have been so wiped out this week I can not function. I drove into town yesterday for an appointment. My car was bug covered and needed washed. (when you drive down I-5 the bugs are everywhere from the rice paddies.)
As I walked out of the lab, I thought I am too tired to take care of this, but I drove to the car wash for a wash and wax. I figured it was not fair to leave it all to David. He has enough to do. When he is ready to come home I want him home.
(selfish person that I am)
So today I am just sitting and the clouds are in again. Not a warm day, at all.
I could be out mowing the field behind the pool but again, I just want to sit and do nothing. I know that is bad for my heart (to be idle) but at this point, more stress on my body may be just as damaging.
So this is supposed to be uplifting, now on to positive things.
Um Um Um , can't think of anything right now.
I could be sewing but that would entail setting up the unit in the living area and I will get to that.
Someday!
Caylum was upset because I could not make his quilt right then, I showed his Mom the fabric and that was it, he wanted it now.
I guess I feel bad, Kris needed me this week and I could not make the trip.
I think I have never said I can't. One is cost of Gas, main reason is I am too tired, I have to rest.
I feel so bad about that, but we have made the trip twice in a week period and at almost 50 dollars a tank of gas, we just can't.
I just do not like to let her down, or anyone down, but that has to happen sometime, I won't be here forever. Life will go on with or without me.
I have to admire her reason for needing me. Evan has a field trip this week and she is worried about him. He has never gone on a trip without them. I think it is a museum and I can see him being totally enthralled by the exhibits. He is into what makes things tick.

She wants to make sure he is OK and watched well. That is the best reason in the world. That is one dedicated Mama.
So today I am at rest again. Waiting on a call from the doctor or Not. Test were probably good, although I am not 100 % sure of it. I Just don't feel exactly great.
OK enough negativity, I do know my own body and I stay in tune with changes.
And change is coming.

We did it

We actually got out of the house today and drove around. With gas at almost $4 a gallon, it was a definite splurge.
David wanted to show me the Veterans Cemetery in Igo or Ono. (not sure-O.)
So we drove up there, then he told me to take a road to see a Castle in same area.
( I had read articles in the paper regarding this castle, funny how the photos made it look huge.)

I expected a CASTLE, it was only a house built with the same idea but so small scale. (very small scale). I admit it was very pretty, nestled in the mountains with the creek flowing by it, but the road was so narrow I can not imagine people driving out every day.
I do say, I had no idea that area was so beautiful in the spring. I had never been to that part of the mountain. The road is more narrow than our road and that is not good. But it was pavement so that was better. I told him, I may as well not see a car because I am not backing up. I know we went over 4 miles of this, we saw cascading waterfalls, trees were so heavy in several spots it took your breath away. The beauty was undeniable.
Now to live in that area. I do believe I could, once I got used to the travel time. It took 30 minutes to return to civilization. The homes, for the most part, were very country and the people in their yards waved when we passed. (not that we passed that many people).
One house we passed was like a barn and it was right on the side of the road. I mean literally on the road. If a car passed you there, someone would back up and as I said, "NOT ME"
The house reminded me of some I have seen in Remodeling magazines. It was so unique. And I had to look twice to see if it was in fact a house or a barn. It was a barn, remodeled into a house, With the barn doors and rusty hinges intact.
We were going to keep going but the road was not getting any wider and the day was not getting longer and we had not ate since breakfast.
Plus it was time for the realtor to leave.
We finally turn around and drive out. I did so much enjoy getting out of the house for something other than a chore or a doctor.
I made a steak and Yam dinner. It was pretty good, but my appetite is not great at times.
Charles even made the comment, "You sure don't eat much do you?"
I am just not hungry most of the time, I usually end up eating a bowl of cereal to fill me up. That is all I really want. That and strawberries. Yummy berries.
Yes Lou I did eat some and thought of you, I did eat some and wish I could share with everyone.
When fruit is in season I do eat seasonal fruit.
Did you ever think maybe that is why fruit comes in a different times, strawberries, peaches, plums, oranges, apples, melons, All at their different times so you can enjoy fresh fruit all year.

Now I will close and go eat a few berries or a bowl of cereal.

Good night Dear Ones.

Sunday

We rose early to get the house work completed. It is now done. Thank God.
In all that Someone had to clean the freezer, You know. Exploded Coke!!!!!!!
What a mess, I opened the freezer to have frozen coke fall out, all in front. I called, "When did you put cokes in the freezer?'
He was ticked at himself, but he cleaned it up, with my help. NO I did not desert him. I took everything out and actually gave me an opportunity to clean up the freezer-burned food and old ,old food.
Now it is organized again, just not a day I wanted to do it.
We have vacuumed, mopped and dusted every inch of the house and it took only 3 hours. Whew we were trucking.
Dave has the pool clean and ready to show. I will be surprised if anyone comes, after all there are over 40 houses open this weekend.
It is ready to look at, although it is never really bad. Not really, Really bad. Just not show ready according to what I like. Who cares????????
I feel better today but I am still so tired. I wish I had a place to sleep while we have the realtor here, but I want to get away from here too.
I just do not want people in my face today.
Guess I need my quiet today.
Right now I am listening to a CD that is Autographed by my Nephews and their group.
Cross Point Quartet.

You may go here to see their story and order their music.
www.crosspointquartet.com/aboutus.php

I am aware lots of people do not like this gospel at all, which never ceases to amaze me, If you just listen to the words it is all Good.
Sure Southern gospel is not what you hear, on secular stations, but it is uplifting and makes you think, makes you examine yourself. Isn't that what we all need? To examine our hearts occasionally.
I for one am proud of my heritage and Southern Gospel is right up my alley, as is all kinds of music. I am just promoting this group. If you live in Arkansas and hear of the group in concert at a local church, you will be blessed to hear them sing.
I look forward to attending their concert. My daughter has been invited to a performance in September. She is anxiously awaiting that time. I am anxious to have my grandchildren enjoy the Southern gospel I was raised with. Just to see where Mamaw came from.
I have a deep appreciation for music. I think it calms the savage spirit, and can clear the mind of any problems, if we just let it.

So I guess today, My soapbox is Music.

Building lives and Memories

Tomorrow we will be making a trip to The airport in Sacramento. Charles must go home now. He has had a nice week here, I hope.

He had an opportunity most adult married children never get.

They never really get to go home again, home again for support and time alone with aging parents. (not that we are old).

But he can see the changes taking place, in both of us.

In his Dad, he sees the slowness creeping in, the stooped look, the drooped shoulders, the slow step, and the ever present calm attitude and also in the calmness comes the quiet times.

Sometimes he will just sit and think. He is often unsure of what to say, how to say it, how to approach a subject. The ever present calm Dad.

I know these weeks may not come again. I want to cherish each moment and take the good from each one.

Laughter and tears together build a strong heart.

Yesterday we spent the afternoon at the Sundial Bridge. A magnificent place to just take in all the beauty of Gods creation.

You can view one photo we took on the bridge. Dad and Son, Son is dwarfing Dad, seems so unreal to see a child so much bigger than the dad. You still think of them as the little boy. Not a grown man.

Check this out. The Sundial Bridge in Redding, CA Virtual Tour

The river below, the mountains in the distance, the bridge looming above as a huge sundial, the gardens and walking trails.

We took photos and walked the trail. Later we went shopping and bought a LOT of chicken.

Chicken we would cook the next day for company.

The day was magnificent. It was cool, when we left our house, (in the high 50's). By the time we arrived in town, the temp was in the high 60's rising to the 70's. Needless to say, we left the jackets in the car and took a lovely walk.

Later we sat in the cafe and had water, and ice cream and he had coffee. (big spenders)

Today was just as great. The temp rose to the high 70's and Charles actually got his dose of California Sunshine. He is slightly burned.

He went swimming in the 64 degree pool and sat in a lounge chair for a while. We were hoping for a few minutes of sun for him, Sunshine is the natural remedy for a down spirit.

Today we made the trip to YC to Kens and I slept in the living room. I get tired so easy, and when I need to sleep I go to sleep.

I told the guys I had to lie down so I went to the sofa, in the living room. Jarod walked me in with his little hand on my side to guide me, (so sweet). He decided he needed to sit and visit a while but his Mom and Dad called him out but it was sweet. I was immediately asleep. That is not usual for me. ( To go visiting and sleep for an hour. )

I did feel better and was able to drive home from the airport. I am not sure how far it is but I checked out of the airport gate at 648 and drove into town at 850. I am so glad to be home.

Tomorrow is open house for us. I am NOT looking forward to it. I am too tired to clean and the house is not as neat as I like, I have been pretty lax the last few days. (actully left a tortilla chip on the floor for two days before Charles picked it up). He found that funny.

Actually there are clothes on the bathroom floor, Charles bed is still not made, ( I told him to let it go) my floors need mopped and sewing clutter needs put away. The office is a mess, I have photos out so no one is coming until I get the work done, when the realtor arrives I am leaving.

I think a nice walk through the local Garden shop would be nice for me. I can spend a lot of time dreaming and planning my gardens and landscaping.

Now if God would only give me the energy to do it. I do have ideas but Money is also an issue. Need money to buy dump truck loads of bark and trees and plants and you name it, I need it or at least think I do.

IF ONLY.

As Coy used to say, "IF only a frog had wings it would not be so hard on his landing gear."

So I see the logic in it, the frog will not grow wings and I will not grow money.

OK how in the heck did I get here?

I am rambling and thinking, this actually helps clear my mind of problems. Good therapy.

So goodnight sweet people.

God Bless you.

Strawberries

I am so disappointed at the strawberries this year. As you can see, They are really small. That coin, (if you zoom in is a quarter.)

Not only that but when you eat these minuscule berries, the juice gets on your skin, your teeth, drip down your chin, it runs to your elbows. They are such a pain.

However I am now on my second half flat in a week. I guess when you are cursed you just have to go with the flow of juice and tiny berries.

Na Na Na Na Na.

Charles is Loving them. And tomorrow he gets a strawberry cake.

Oh did I mention they were really good, like YUMMY, like the best flavor you ever sunk your teeth into. They require NO sugar. Who would want to ruin a good berry with sugar?

Sorry if that was mean but had to say, I LOVE STRAWBERRIES.

What was I doing 10 years ago:
In 1998 I left my job of 22 years to recouperate from an illness. I was never able to return to work.



Five Snacks I enjoy:. I really DO NOT snack.





2. I drive a Mercury Marquis Grand, and my family crazy.



3. My newest car is 3 years old.



4. I wish for peace and happiness for all, but healing for my sons spirit. Salvation for all.



5. I wish I had never started work.

Things I would do if I were a billionaire:
Take care of loved ones, Support a local church or homeless shelter.

5. Jobs that I have had:
Picking up Walnuts in Red bluff,
Trimming strawberry plants
Sales, Montgomery Ward 22 years
MY biggest job I had was raising a family and taking care of a home.


Three of my habits:

1. Pursing my lips.

2. Compulsive about most anything.

3. Kissing my spouse when he walks in the door.


Places I have lived.
1. Sparkman Arkansas

2. Leola Arkansas

3.Sheridan Arkansas

4. Red Bluff Ca.

5. Northern California

What do you want others to get from your blog:
A positive outlook and uplifing feeling, laughter.

5. people I tag: I dont know

Happy Birthday Kristina

Today is the 30Th birthday of my Daughter In Law, (honestly I feel like she is more daughter.) However each of them are only loaned to us for a season, so this is the season of our life with her. When I first met Kris she walked into our home, with a beautiful smile and long black hair, pulled back into a ponytail, at the neck. I can recall each step as she entered the door. Ken, my youngest son had dated very little and at 30 years old I figured it was just a new friend. But when she walked in I saw more. I saw a person that, even after a short time, truly loved my son. I knew his bachelor pad was changing. Within a year it did change with the addition of a baby boy. Kris stole our hears from the first day we met her. A little shy, non assuming, respectful, and lots of love to give. The days of shy are gone forever. She has grown into a woman in her own right . She displays so much love for her family. We sit in amazement at her. Several of our friends that had known her from the wedding forward, has seen the transformation. Kris has something to call hew own. She is an amazing mother with her children's best interest at heart. She is a Stay at Home Mom and devoted to her life as a Mom and a provider of needs. This year, only 10 plus years later, she has given birth to her fifth child. A true beauty, as they all are. We always pray she knows just how much we Love and Appreciate her, We appreciate her as a member of our family and her devotion to our loved ones. She is always respectful and always kind. So happy Birthday sweetie, We love you so much, We only want the best for you, you have given us a lot of your best.

Sunday

As you can see by my previous post. (De fragmentation,) posted at 7 PM. That was my last post, I had been so excited that he may coming to visit. I think I forgot to think.
When he called to say Mom I am coming for sure, (he informed me that morning he had to discuss it further with Shelle). I had to post. So now what do I write about?
First I can say "Thank you Shelle for sharing him with us for a short time."
I am sure once he is here I can find numerous things to say and do.
For now, I am just exhausted. We say as we sit here on Sunday doing nothing. I am sure we need an out but not sure what that will be.
By the way an Alaskan front moved in and it is COLD. Too cold to be outside. I actually turned my fireplace on to warm up.
We had gone to church this morning but left soon after. MY right contact was hurting my eye. It felt like it was scratching. (Actually I had put two on the same eye).
I know, I Know!
How do you do that. Well it is easy, first I put the contact on, my vision did not improve, I could not find it so I figured I had dropped it, That happens.
Then I put the new one on. It felt a little off but not bad, I assumed I had scratched my eye a little by trying to find the first one.
Now we go to church, it keeps hurting and my eye will not stay open. As we get home I go in to take them out, when I remove one I can see fine. One was on top of the other and moving around, thus double vision.
Some days I am too absent minded to do anything but not think. Those days I should just sleep. Maybe that is my next chore. Take a Nap.
Last night we went to our Friends 70th birthday party. It was very nice. We met a lot of new people. A lot of people we knew but had not seen in a while.
I have to say, that is a very nice family and my daughter is blessed to have them in her life.
Dave enjoyed the catered festivities. The Calamari was wonderful as were the shrimp and the stuffed mushrooms but the company was the best of all.
Dave had a few stories told on him, some his two children tried to cut off. They involved Lori and Mike and it was hard to separate the two. As most of our joy and errors come from our children.
Did I mention Mike My Son In Law made it to California from Oklahoma? He did and it was great to see his smiling face.
I thought until the last possible minute, my daughter and grandchildren would emerge from the back room at any time. As I began eating I said, "OH well she is not here," Sad huh?
It was a fast trip, Mike came in yesterday and he leaves tomorrow, but he did spend a few wonderful hours with his Mom and Dad, some cousins and uncles and aunts he had not seen in a while. Dave's sister came in from Tennessee.
It was a great reunion and we had a great time with this family.
Tomorrow we will make a trip to Y C to pick up our son from his brothers house, then on to Sac to take Mike to the airport. So a busy day is planned. A nice day. We also get to sleep in a little, not late but maybe to seven.
So to all of you, Have a wonderful weekend and week ahead.
Love Mom or Sue or whatever you call me.

DeFragmentation and Loss

My oldest son is coming from Seattle to visit, for a WEEK. We are so excited. I am trying to figure out what to do for him, like baby him, but he is 42 years old. I guess I have to let him BE A MAN.
If you want to see his photo it is posted in March or April. I post so often I am never sure which day or month but I do have the year correct.
Today we are so happy he is going to spend alittle time with us. I guess we all need to defragment, Put the pieces all back together.
Today, I sprayed my garden spot with Round UP. I want to kill the weeds before I plow it and put the seeds in. I know it is not late as three years ago I did not put in a garden until June. I am fine.
So today, I finished up, David put feed on the lawn and we came in, Early.
I went in to take my shower, I realized I had AGAIN lost my Nitro.( I do that a lot.)
I tell him no worries, I have another bottle. I step in the shower and when I am finished he is not there. I call to him, "The shower is ready for you." No answer. I dress and go to the living area and garage to find him, No David.
I again call him, I look all over the yard and the field area. I look again. Of course now I am thinking he has passed out somewhere. NO he does not do that as a rule but he is ALMOST 70.
I blow the horn on the car. I can not see him, I do not hear him. I think,
"I wonder if the Rapture came and I got left behind." (Of course I am kidding.)
I see no pile of jeans and shirts so I know he must be here somewhere. I have to relax and wait, he may be at the neighbors.
He is, He is talking to Jim. I find this out when he comes in the back door.
Whew made me wonder, he never just disappears.
I told him to forget the nitro I had another bottle, he did not need to walk the acre looking for one teensy tiny bottle.
No he was visiting. That was fine.
When I told him what I had said, about the rapture, he said, "Oh you think you have been that bad? All you did was start a fire."
He is so funny.

Time to Repay KIndness

Today I am making cinnamon rolls for the CDF, At least the group in the office today. I hope they are the ones that were here yesterday.

I know you do not have to do anything but they showed up, quickly and they were not condescending and they were NICE.

That counts for a lot when you were too scared to spit. I could not have conjured up a spit if I had tried, NO! I did not try but it would have been nice to lick my lips.

My mouth was sticking to my teeth. LOL
It was so funny and I am sure that is why MIKE, (good looking guy in blue uniform,) kept telling me to get a drink of water or go have an iced tea, and all I wanted was to crawl in a hole.
Amidst all this I even worried the SNAKE would be in the ditch. LOL but he was going to share it with me, that would have added to my terror and possibly that would have sent my nerves over the edge.

I just returned from shopping, I had to have pudding mix for my rolls and Decaf coffee. I have been out and the regular coffee makes me sick, really sick. I have a nervous apprehensive feeling in my nerve endings.
I have been away from caffeine for several years and a little is poison to me.
I also need personal items Sheri knows why. It was my joke on myself, of course David got a good laugh too.

I have to say, all week I have been listening to K-Love, It is my radio station. I love it, it is uplifting and puts your mind on God all time. I have wanted to donate to them but was unsure of what to do. God kept prompting me to donate. I was not committed to making a donation. However K-Love is listener supported. I listen I did not support.

I would love each of you to go on line and find the one in your area. K-Love is heard all over the world. I know Pine Bluff has one, It is not Southern gospel but it is good. Really good. That is where a lot of my words for songs come from, songs I post.
So after my disaster, (yesterday,) I came in and called and donated. God did not have to tell me again. He almost had to hit me over the head to listen but that was my sign to donate.
It is not much, just 20 dollars a month. But what is that to reach millions of people, to give them positive uplifting music?
That is just what? Since I do not eat out, or drink soda or smoke I have to give up something. I have to make a sacrifice to do this, Some sacrifice, we do not have a cell phone so that is not something, David would never hear of getting rid of Direct TV. But this is my sacrifice not his.
I will figure it out. I will give to him, maybe he is showing me it does not have to hurt to be in his will.
May I always be open to the will of God. AMEN
Aaron Shust - Give Me Words To Speak Added by Site Admin on 2007-09-05 04:09:58
Calloused and bruised dazed and confused My Spirit is left wanting something more Than my selfish hopes and my selfish dreams I'm lying with my face down to the floor I'm crying out for more (crying out for more)Chorus: Give me Words to speak Don't let my Spirit sleep Cause I can't think of anything worth saying But I know that I owe You my life So give me Words to speak Don't let my Spirit sleep Every night, every day I find that I have nothing left to say So I stand here in silence awaiting Your guidance I'm wanting only Your voice to be heard Let them be Your Words Let them be Your words(chorus)I just don't understand this life that I've been living I just don't understand (x2) I just don't understand these lies I've been believing I just don't understand (x2)(chorus x2)I know that I owe you my lifeOwe my lifeOwe my life(x2)

An Undeniable Miracle

Today was a very beautiful day. David and the guys finished the mowing and cleaning up around the place.
I told David I would get the rest of it to the big walnut tree, with the tractor, so he could leave it to me. Not a problem. Today was a perfect day, nice breeze, warm but not hot.
So I began mowing, I had mowed about an hour when I hit a rock. I looked back I saw the rock, No big deal. I THOUGHT!
So I finished mowing the area, I made a few more rounds, I put the tractor away, I was moving water hoses. I looked toward the field, A fire, I had started a fire.
How it is not too dry, it is early. I run to the hose, I can not unhook it to spray down the place.
The fire is moving toward Jim's dry shed. His shed is really old lumber and with the blackberry vines between him and us I just knew it was over. I prayed, I kept saying, Help me God, Help me God. No one was home at any house on the road. No one but me, I was all I had to put the fire out. It was not going to happen.
The breeze that was blowing was moving the flames to the North, to Jims property. Then they started blowing south, to my property. Again this is God. I Pray for North winds or No wind. That is all I Knew to do without stressing myself too much. I did not want a heart attack with this, that would be weak. I am aware I need to breathe. I am not breathing very normal, I am almost in tears, I am more concerned with my neighbors property.

I ran in the house,and grabbed the portable phone.
The miracle.
That Phone has never worked even on the patio which is just outside the back door. I dialed 911. They dispatched me through to CDF. I was so terrified. As I talk I am running to the fire. I have a big towel in my hand. I began to hit at the fire. I am able to extinguish it, mostly, with a towel and a LOT Of prayer. As I sling the towel I am throwing embers to more dry grass. I start several little hot spots. I stomp them out. All this while on the phone to CDF. I pray and say I am so sorry for doing this. She says it is OK. I tell her I almost have it out and I am in the ditch, hitting the flames. Small flames. Thank You God. I tell her I am afraid it will get to my neighbors place.
That phone never works away from the house and I had to Thank God several times for the reception, Not one second of loss of reception. I was all the way over to Jim's shed at the back of our irrigation ditch.
Finally I have it under control enough to get the sprinkler on it. I drag the hose to the fire and just began when the fire dept arrives. I am so embarrassed.
I ask is there a fine, He said he does not know. (This is the fire chief. )They have to file a report. OH NO! I have to explain to David. I am covered with black soot my hair is dripping. My Jeans are soaked to my feet and all down the front. As the men keep arriving
I am feeling more and more drab and ugly and stupid. The Fire protection Chief arrives, and to make matter worse he is so Cute. MY age cute. And in a Uniform,
His name is Mike. He is the one that decides the ticket.
He tells me to go get a drink, I say "NO I really want a shower, I am so sorry." So after explaining to at least 5 men the reason for the fire and they see the rock that is scraped, they decide I did nothing wrong.
NO TICKET. AGAIN ALL I CAN SAY IS THANK YOU GOD, OVER AND OVER.
I was clearing out a defensible zone. This is required by the fire department.
He is the Protection Chief. Do they have a chief for everything? I guess but he smiled and said, "Keep mowing you are doing a good job". I say "No thank You I will hire it done from now on.
He now knows just how dry it is this year, He told me it was a good warning for them to stay alert. He also agreed it was a good thing it did not reach the neighbors property. He could see the potential for disaster.
To make me feel better, the fire chief said "You have quite an estate here, very nice property".
To make it better I was not the only one with a fire out of control, one was in Cottonwood.
BUT I HAD THE MIRACLE OF THE PHONE TODAY. THE MIRACLE OF A PHONE THAT NEVER WORKS THAT WORKED 400 FEET AWAY FROM THE BASE UNIT.
THANK YOU GOD.

Yea Today

I am so glad today is here, Why? Because I am here. LOL No, I am looking forward to the weekend. We are going to Dave Sears 70Th birthday party. Man he is getting old.
Oh yes so is David. He will be 70 in June. I have to figure out what to do for him. Maybe just what I did for my 62Nd. Just have friends over and have a sandwich and Banana Split/Sundae bar. I have plenty of time to think on that.
Now I have to decide on Dave's, Maybe a round of golf at Tucker Oaks. Not sure he can walk that much any more. I will have to check with Gwena.
So my plans today are, Clean the house again, It is not bad, of course but it is in the Kool April Nights edition of Homes for Sale. It would be nice to have it perfect but I have been lax lately, like dishes in the sink and laundry on the laundry room floor and dust on the tables. I wonder why I cant pull it together some days. I just want outside, OUTSIDE, as Josh used to beg.
I recall a day, and I have it on tape. If Josh would say his ABC's I would take him outside.
Finally he said them for us, He was three years old. As soon as he finished he came to me, took my hand and said, "Outside Mamaw, Outside." I had to go after explaining to the rest about the bribe and the bribe we used on his dad at five years old.
Charles had a line in the Christmas program in Ms. Bradleys Class. All he had to say was "Ms. Bradley and all of us welcome you to our program."
Charles has this big booming voice, even as a child, When he stood, He said his lines perfect and LOUD.
He immediately left the stage, walked to us and held his hand out for his $5. We had promised him $ 5 if he did a good job.
He did and he got his money but he was supposed to stay on stage until the end of the play. All the adults saw what happened and we all had a good laugh.
Charles too loved the outside, we lived in the country and every morning as soon as he woke up he was out the door and visiting. Charles was an early riser, some days before 6 oclock. One day I woke up to find him missing. I ran out and Grandpa Crow was talking to him. He told us Charles came out nearly every morning to visit. Charles stayed in the yard but he was only four years old, too young to be running around the property, Alone.
Thank God for good neighbors.
So Outside is what I want, Outside Outside.

Where have I been?

Tonight we were watching the Discovery Channel.
As they progressed with the Top Ten Wonders of the West, We sat in awe. So many beautiful places to see, so many beautiful places that we now can not navigate.
We never made it to Carlsbad Caverns, but we will. That is one place we must go.
We never made it to Yellowstone. But we will, We only wish we had taken our children while they were young.

We went to the Grand Canyon we never made it to the bottom of the Canyon, although we were there in the Mid 196o,s.
We went to Hoover Dam in the 80,s, never knowing my Dad worked there as a very young Man.
We went to the Painted Desert and marveled at the beauty.
We have seen the Petrified Forest and taken tours.
We toured the Redwoods on many occasions. We have silent movies of that trip, made in 1968.
(now before you all laugh too much, that is all the Super 8 cameras would do, movies, no sound.
While in the Redwoods, we also had time on the Ocean. The Redwoods get their strength and growth from the moisture and fog of the Pacific Ocean.
We visited Yosemite National Park. It was amazing. We remember the water falls as the most outstanding. While there, they usually had a fire fall, (I think someone threw fire off a mountain)but it was cancelled that night.
We Have been to the Columbia River Gorge. Magnificent place to visit. However we realize after this show, we missed a lot. David and I took a drive through there a couple of years ago and took the highway that winds above the Gorge. It too was beautiful.
We have been to the Rio Grande. We visited it in the 1990,s.
We have been to a Volcano (Lassen) and we had a picnic on top of a mountain of snow. It was so beautiful so sit there in the snow, on a blanket, eat a picnic lunch and the sun actually be so warm you had no need of a coat. Oh Yes lest I forget we also toured Mt. Saint Helens.
We made the trek up to the Mountain, and had to go back down before Dark. Our Dream was to stay and watch the sun come up. (Lassen)
We took Many Many Mount Lassen Hikes. One on which we got sort of lost. Not lost, we knew where the road was and we knew where Kings Creek was, we just had no idea how far to either place.
We have been to so many beautiful places in This beautiful state.
I have made a trip down the Trinity River on a Raft. I did that with two little girls. (That was undeniable the most stupid thing I ever did.) The river was so high and treacherous at that time because of rains but Sheri and Bobby Joe had on life vest. That is a story in itself.
We have enjoyed the beauty of Death Valley, only as we flew through it in a car.
We have been to an inland sea. In Indio California. Name? I can't remember.
We spent the night there and we also spent the night in Palm Springs, (Many years ago,) just so we could say we did.
We have been to the Caverns but not the National Park caverns, ours were on Shasta Lake. It was quite a trek and My Mom made it with us.
We took moonlight cruises on the lake aboard a Tour boat.

We have had many experiences and we plan on having many more.

Do not forget to take your family on Vacations. It is important and it is vital to their learning experience. In a few years they will NOT want to go with you and believe me those years pass so fast.
Sometime it is hard to plan a vacation, sometimes we just have to DO IT.
Even if it is to a Ghost town in Oregon, (which we did on two occasions) we did it as a family. Not a lot of money to spend but time together. Time we will never forget.
Times we threw things in the car and made our way to Mount Lassen for a weekend. It was so quiet and the smell was so fresh. We usually forgot things but we had time together and the tent was not really conducive to sleeping.
The times you played on the downed trees until dark, then sat around a campfire and warmed up until bedtime. (which comes really early in the mountains).

One of the most memorable was the Dune Buggy Rides in Oregon.
Fun Fun Fun. We all laughed until we were sick, or was it the wild ride?
Whatever we had a family vacation often, We had time together and time to just laugh and play.
Time to cherish each moment. Time with friends, Time to hold in our memories forever.

Shift

In case you doubt, this is the definition, among many.
Archaic A, woman's chemise, B, loosely fitting dress, like a chemise but with straighter lines. The shift is nothing more than an easy fitting sheath, street length or to the floor.
So today as I got out of the shower I was wishing for a Shift. A change from my regular clothes, a shift to a more comfortable feeling. (I did not want a lot of clothes on.) Or should I say a lot of tight fitting clothes, I just wanted comfort.
Shifts used to be so easy to purchase. I remember Louellen always had several, She was always in a neat shift. I never wore them but today I wish I could find one.
I may just have to make my own.
They often had button but could have snaps.
They were usually cotton blend and very cool.
When you work in the yard all day and are exhausted, all you want is something comfortable to wear. something to set around in and look Cool. Cool as in Cold not Cool as in Nifty or whatever the phrase is for the 21st century.
This phrase came from the 50's or 60's. Maybe before but I would not know.
Today I went to town for a few returns. I took back an item I can only tell the girls about. They will have a good laugh. I took back printer cartridges, I then took my old one in for a refill. So far so good.
I picked up grout for my bathroom tile, it has one spot cracked so I will repair it. (grout was free from Tile City).
I ate lunch by myself. I was so hungry I bought a cheap hamburger. It was pretty good. Only $1 .49 but it hit the spot. I usually do not eat in town, I do not like to but today was a necessity as my sugar was on the way down. I did accomplish a lot then on to the irrigation supply for drip hose for my orchard. I came home and sat on the ground and finished putting it to my trees. Then on to the Cannes, by the drive, I put the old drip system there, the one I removed from the Orchard. (Why? Because the orchard needed a bigger hose.)
Then I got so tired I decided I had enough, David had gone to buy gas and he was more than ready to quit too. After he worked all day, training the guys, he had to go to the store to buy the gas. That helps me a lot, I can have gas for my tractor when I get outside. Besides after paying for gas who feels like working?
Now my plans are to sit and do nothing, we are eating what ever we can find. Mine will be a bowl of cereal and he can have reheated roast beef or whatever he wants.
At this moment I am too tired to worry about food.
Kind of over did it the last few days. But as I said, the summer is coming and I must get it done. NOW!

Let the little girl Dance

Look at those little bare feet. I love this photo. She is really moving. Need I say more, this photos says it all. She loved the new dress. It would spin. So we got her to spinning then dancing. This is Kiara. Nancy this dress cost about 9 dollars. Not a bad buy. When we put it on her she said, A spider web. (meaning the slip). We laughed. The hair spins so free when she dances. Dont you just love it? OK this is her Mamaw so I can brag. It is my God given Duty.

Sore Body

Yesterday I took a nap around noon. It felt good to just sleep, under a warm blanket. Ken and Kris got us a warm brown throw blanket for Christmas.

When I woke I finished dinner and we ate by 4:30. We try to eat early since we do not go to bed with a full tummy. That is not good for you or your heart. One of the Worse things you can do it go to bed after working hard, and have a full stomach. That puts the heart into working double hard.

As we finished dinner I told David the pool area needed straightening, and the pool vacumned. He went out to do that as I finished in the kitchen. As soon as I finished I headed for the tractor. I had planned on getting my garden spot mowed really good then spraying it with round up to kill the grass. That should help with weeding this year.

As I mowed I kept going , I bet I mowed three acres. It looks amazing outside now. Tomorrow the guys will be out to move rock and finish the mowing. (Front yard only needs mowed.) I do not like them mowing around my orchard. They are prone to nick the trees. Keeping it clean is something I can handle.

David grabbed the DR and he began mowing under the big walnut tree It too is beginning to weep. I think it is sad from no children to play on it. Every tree needs its boy or girl to love and admire it. It may be sad from all the ground squirrels tunneling under it. But today it looks clean under the tree and the spot around the burn pile is clean. We are cleaning up for a dry summer.

Maybe this year we can get some blackberries too. I hope so, but if I see a snake, blackberry season is over. I know a giant one lives out there somewhere I have seen him or her every year. I even saw the skin he or she left hanging in a fence. YUCK. M saw him once, she told me, "Mamaw I thought I was going to faint." I found that funny as she does not remind me of a fainter. She seems tougher but maybe not. She was only 7 or 8 at the time though. M I would be scared too and I would scream and run. Ask your Mommy how we ran when we heard a rattle while standing on a hill overlooking the ARkansas river. We heard the rattle and ran when David said we should have stood still. Right! If we had stood still he may have attacked or worse yet I could feel him chasing us.

I told David I will get together a list of needs to be done. List for the guys to complete. like moving a few rock and moving a pile of stone and sand. Not a lot but heavy work for me.

Now David has to till up my herb garden, I just want it to be cleaned out and we need to have a load of bark hauled in for the guys to put around the rose gardens and flower edging. I called a company up the road and they will deliver for free. Hey, you cant beat that price. Especially since that is the part David hates more, The driving up several times to just bring home bark.

Spring is a busy time for us. Spring is getting ready for a relaxing summer. Once it is all in order there is not much left to do but keep it mowed and we hire that done.

We were going to get in the Hot Tub last night, but we were too tired by the time we came in. So we took a shower and sat to watch Dancing with the Stars.

I had dumped a full bag of shock in the tub. Probably would not be a good idea to get into that anyway. Last year it bleached a blue suit out to purple and ate up the elastic.

The tub looked a little green, which is not possible since it had been filtered. I think it was green from the pollen. And there is a lot of pollen flying. My tables outside are green coated.

As I sat and looked at the Cottonwood tree, I realized my time outside was coming to an end soon. I can not be out when it is blowing. I am sure, beyond a doubt, that is the reason for my sinus problems.

I still have a few problems, since surgery, but it is so much better. SO MUCH.

At least I do not have the constant urge to spit and cough and my throat is not so sore now. What I do have is an occassional nose bleed. That, for you knowledge, is the Nasonex, a steroid.

One day I was sewing and a commercial came on, it ended by telling what reactions can be. I had just watched Jeff Foxworthy (his skit on medication warnings, somtime the side effects are worse then the illness, like death) and I was laughing and repeating as the announcer ran through the list. Suddenly it said, May cause nose bleeds.

Man, am I dense, I never had nose bleeds before, I figured it was the sinus surgery remnants. It hit me. It is the Nasonex that is causing them. DUH! And I am on anti platelets. What a dangerous combnation.

On to another subject, This will give you an idea of our BIG Tree. That is Jarod in front of it and Kiara running to it,

Isn't it beautiful? All but the place where the limb fell off last year. But that will soon cover over with something, I am sure. Perhaps another limb will begin weeping.

It is a weeping Oak. Not a lot of those around but we have one. At one time in Sacramento they were going to cut one down but the citizens became angry and protested. It was saved.

I can not justify cutting down a tree. OK I take that back, I can justify cutting down a cottonwood tree. They have no useful purpose anyway. The wood is not even good to use. it is soft, hence when a wind storm comes it loses a lot of limbs. I know this, I pick them up every week.

April 15

We did it we finished our taxes, before the 15th. Not much before but before.
I think the driving force was the stimulus package we may get. May as in when I see it.
Today I sit here waiting on the payroll to come through. I do payroll for David on the days he is not here. It is nothing to do.
So I slept most of yesterday morning. I went back to bed two times and finally made it up, fully, at 11:30. I guess I needed to sleep as sleep is what I did.
Today, however is a better day, I have completed the laundry, the floors are mopped, and vacuumed, the beds are made, the furniture is dusted. Not much left to do.
I also made a loaf of bread, and put a roast in the oven. I may invite company for dinner but don't want to wear out. We will see.
As I sit here I think of so many things. I have lots of time to do that. I will be pulling out my sewing and working on quilts.
Jeanette mentioned Chubby Checker this morning. Can you imagine? I had completely forgotten we had gone to see him in Redding At the Civic. Do you kids recall that?
Do you recall the lady dancing in the aisle and the ushers trying to seat her until Chubby Checker said "Let her Dance."
Sheri do you recall when Bill Cosby tried to talk to you, but you would not remove your finger from your mouth. You were so embarrassed but that finger stayed in your mouth.
He also called Greg when he got up to go to the bathroom. Greg stood there and told him where he was going. It was a good show.
It was a fun night.
Wish I had photos, but I have to carry them in my mind. Too bad you cant see them.
Too bad there is not a way to develop memories into photos. Photos to share with loved ones. I guess my telling will have to do. At least for now.
Now I have to get off and let the payroll come through after I call and remind them. No one has to remind me to collect my pay checks. Hey that is right I don't get one. Darn it.

King of the Mountain

Ken Kris and the Children came up this weekend. They were so unhappy to leave but we had a great time.

Baby made the trip pretty good and the older children did great, They were going to Mamaw Papaws.

We walked around the property, after dinner, they climbed the mountain, (big hill). They ran and played in the grass, they itched.

Grass does that to you. They used the big tree swing. They had so much fun, Kiara did good too until an ant got on her leg. I have to admit those aunts do sting.

So this morning they asked if they could go to the hot tub, or swimming? I asked,it was OK,d by the Dad and Mom. We got on appropriate attire while the tub heated. Of course, Cay who is afraid of nothing and is as tough as nails, decided he wanted to swim. In the pool.

The temp, of the pool, was about 65, definitely not swimming water.

The outside temp was in the low 80,s or high 70,s.

I said, "I am NOT going swimming, the pool is too cold!"

So we all go out and turn on the hot tub and play for a while. Kris came out with the baby, and sat with us. She was ready to get in the hot tub too.

As the fun progressed, with lots of giggling, Caylum decided he wanted to see just how cold the pool was. He walked to the steps, He put his foot in and jumped back out, (all while giggling).

He then decided to try again, He put the one foot in then the other. Again he jumped out, giggling.

I decided I better walk over, just to be on the safe side. As I stand there, he becomes more brave. He goes back in and walks the top step. ( to show Jarod there is no spider in the water).

Now he is getting more used to it. I again look at David and Ken and say,

"I am not going swimming. I am NOT going in that water." I still stand sentry over the six year old.

He goes to the second step, giggle giggle, giggle. I tell him "You better not go further it is cold." He is shivering and laughing. (I wish I could can that giggle).

Then I look again at the other adults, warm in the hot tub and hear a splash.

HE DOVE IN, AND SWAM. I quickly jump in and reach for his hand while gasping for breath in the cold water.

He does it again, and again. He tells his Dad, "This is Awesome".

I keep having to go in an take his hand while he is reaching for the shoreline and giggling.

Finally Ken gets in, I tell Cay to swim to Dad. He is already cold.

I hear, "I thought you weren't going swimming?"

OK I had to, I thought! I could have let him swim back to the steps but I did not want him to panic.

Caylum did OK swimming, He really can swim OK, not great not even good, but he can swim.

At one point he swam to the edge and grabbed onto the cool deck.

He is going to be a kid to push the limits.

He already has, a broken arm, stitches in the head, paramedics called because he swollowed a Penny. You name it Cay will try it.

But we love it, They are all precious in our sights.

At that point I went back to the hot tub, It felt like I had stepped in boiling water. It was only 100 degrees but hot to a cold body.

I left the pool to the Men. David finally got up courage to take a dip. With all the yelling going on, You would have sworn someone was torturing him.

I took the baby so Kris could jump in, and Jump in she did. She just took a big leap, no tip toeing in for her. She took the plunge Literally.

Whew Not me,, oh Yes I did, but I only got up to my waist or upper abdomen.

That was enough.

Thank You.

We had a great weekend and I sent two loaves of hot bread home with the kids, They were concerned about not having dinner with us.

They would then be concerned about being unable to spend the night and it would never end.

So Mommy and Daddy had to go home, They had a great weekend and I bet at this time they are all asleep.

Goodnight sweet kids.

Come again as soon as you can.

Music

I love music. I live, eat and sleep music. Really I go to sleep each night with my radio on softly playing. I wake up, reach over and play it for an hour while my body adjusts to the aches of each day.
I take my radio to the living area so I can listen while I work, I take a Walkman with me to the yard to work. I am singing at the tops of my lungs over the sound of the tractor.
I put on a CD to dance with my husband. I sing to my grandchildren as I did to my children.

So in saying all this, If you see a lot of words to songs in my blog, That is just me thinking of some inspirational song or lyric I heard and am applying it to my life.

I know my Redeemer lives.

Who taught the sun where to stand in the morning?

And who told the ocean you can only come this far?

And who showed the moon where to hide till evening?

Whose words alone can catch a falling star?

Chorus:

Well I know my Redeemer lives

I know my Redeemer lives

All of creation testifies

This life within me cries

I know my Redeemer lives

Ye-e-eah

The very same God

That spins things in orbit

Runs to the weary, the worn and the weak

And the same gentle hands that hold me when I'm broken

They conquered death to bring me victory

Now I know, my Redeemer lives

I know my Redeemer lives

Let all creation testify

Let this life within me cry

I-I-I know

My Redeemer He lives

To take away my shame

And He lives Forever I'll proclaim

That the payment for my sins

Was the precious life He gave

And now He's alive and

There's an empty Grave!

And I know My Redeemer lives

He lives

I know My Redeemer lives

Let all creation testify

Let this life within me cry

I-I-I know my Redeemer

I know My Redeemer lives

*I know my Redeemer lives**

I know, That I know, that I know, that I know, that I know

He lives*

my redeemer lives**

Because He lives I can face tomorrow

He lives

*I know, I know*He lives*

I spoke with Him this morning!

*He lives

*The tomb is empty

*He lives

He lives

I'm going to tell every body.

Building Boys

This weekend thought, go out and build that boy. We have lots of them to work on. All parts are provided, No directions enclosed, just read your Bible for true direction.

It is easier to build boys, than to mend Men.


This week's promise: God celebrates family

What was the most effective discipline you have experienced?
Now his father, King David, had never disciplined him at any time, even by asking, "What are you going?"
1 Kings 1:6 NLT

Rebounding skills

Suppose you get home from grocery shopping and discover your six-year-old is eating candy you didn't buy. It might be tempting to just scold him, send him to his room, and let it go at that. After all, it's only worth a dollar, and you're tired. But you'd miss an opportunity to turn this "miss" into a second chance.
It would be better to take away any uneaten candy, put your little shoplifter back in the car, drive to the grocery store, hunt up the manager, and tell your kid to apologize. Pay for the candy and deduct it from the child's allowance. Then, if the culprit is truly sorry, be sure to express your forgiveness—and God's forgiveness, too.
You've just boxed out the opposition and put your kid in position to rightly rebound. Because there will come another time in that grocery store or when he's passing a coveted pair of Nukes or—who knows?

Ricky Birdsong in Coaching Your Kids in the Game of Life
The Bible tells us that parents have the primary responsibility for the spiritual development of our children. And nowhere is the job given only to mothers and grandmothers. As Moses told the people of Israel,
"Repeat [the command of God] again and again to your children" (Deut. 6:7).
Why not begin today?

Names to Fit

My love Is sound asleep. I would love to do that. However even after sleeping pills and happy pills I am still wound up tight. I have always been this way. Ready and Raring to go. (As my Mom used to say). Actually I think of lots of things she used to call me. For example, "Sue you are like a goose, wake up in a new world every day." As I thought of this last weekend, I got the giggles. I can imagine a goose with a smile on its face. They really do have a kind of smile on their faces. They look around and smile and waddle around the fowl yard, exploring each new bug on the yard, each new piece of grain. Really they smile as they explore the same yard they explored yesterday. So I guess that was a compliment. Actually I think it was because I explored a lot. Another favorite name was "Sue you are just like a Catfish., All mouth and no brains." In case you wonder, I say things without thinking. I open my mouth and let it go. No hurt intended or no embarrassment intended. I just do it. For example, one evening we were in the back yard. We, as in my Sister, Lou ellen, Fred and Joyce Harp, my aunt and uncle, and several others. The birds were acting up, I said, "Look at those birds fighting, one is attacking the other," What a dumb statement, They were not fighting, ( as Lou told me later). I am sure I was red when she told me. Heck I thought one was picking on the other. Another good one, "Sue you are like an Ostrich, You hide your head in the sand and let the world go by." True So True. I do not like to deal with issues, so I ignore them, maybe they will go away. I had lot of nicknames, one being Grandma, that was bestowed on me by my Uncle Hugh Tuberville. I lost most of my front teeth at once. Therefore I was Grandma at the ripe old age of six or seven. A few years ago, uncle Hugh said, "Hey didn't I used to call you Grandma?" I pretended indignation, and said "Yes you did and I am still mad at you for that." Of course we both laughed. My uncle Hugh was funny. OH and the best one yet, I never quite got. "You are mIss Nicey Nasty." HUH? I do like things in order and I do clean deep so I guess that was it, I could take it OK from my Mom but when someone else said it, I was livid. Because it was said in meanness. I do not mean to be so particular, but everyone has to agree I do not push my ideas on anyone else, I can walk into the biggest mess and still function. I can eat in a dirty house, and close my eyes to the world around me. I have no problem with how anyoen else does things but if I do not do it right, the first time, I have to go back and do it again. So that is my thoughts for tonight. I guess I should turn off the thougth process and get some rest. Goodnight, Love to all.

Tribute

This is March, I have an older brother who went on to be with God in 2000.

This is his birth month.

So I will pay tribute to him.

He was about 7 years older than me. He was tall, 6'2" I think.

When he was small he had asthma so bad, he would at times crawl up on the porch barely breathing. (My Mom told me this)

So he was pretty pampered. He outgrew the asthma but pampering he never outgrew.

I often wonder how much damage was done to his lungs from scarring.

Leonard considered himself a mechanic, (shade tree) a builder of toys, (spinning Jenny, should have been called Flying Sue).

He took reflectors out of state signs to make eyes reflect in the woods at night.

He built bag swings to twist us up to the top of trees, only to let us go and spin wildly out of control.

Ken, my son, remembers he loved to give "Indian burns" and play "milk a Mouse". (with our hands) He was a joker from the word go.

My Uncle Porter told me, "Leonard and Ed were in the field playing, they had a big old tire, Each one of them took turns going down a hill, coiled up in the tire. As Leonards turn came again, Ed got the tire really straight and gave a big push, as Leonard flew down the hill, he was going at full speed. He went right through a huge briar patch, he got out laughing. A minister saw this, he ran to check on him, as Leonard emerged from the tire the Minister said, "Son the Lord had to be with you on that ride, you could have been killed."

Leonards response, "Well if he was he had a hell of a ride."

This was all from Uncle Porter.

But to give him credit, Above all else he Loved the Lord. He struggled with his faith on numerous occasions but in the end he was at peace with the world around him

In 1999 Leonard had a heart transplant. He was really happy to get that heart. He did not know the benefactor but he knew he was young.

Leonard thought he was getting younger.

He swore his eyebrows were getting black again. He swore his facial features were smoothing out. (If that were so, I want a new heart.) NOT!!!!

He had a lease on life, like he never had before.

His favorite pasttime was practical jokes and fishing.

But you better not pull a joke on him, he could not take it.

He could sit on a pond or creek all day, for the sheer joy of the beauty of the pond and the quiet.

One of my favorite memories of him was in the early 70's. We had gone to Arkansas for a holiday.

As we all gathered in the living room, we began to play Charade's.

Leonard lay on the floor and began jumping and wiggling.

He was a piece of bacon frying in the pan. We all laughed until we were sick.

Another vivid memory was when I saw him in July 2000. He was pretty bad. He could not get out of his car after a visit to the doctor.

We all went over to help out, the men helped him, we all gathered and prayed before the ambulance arrived.

As we prayed, he was so sick, he could not hold his head up, I stood behind his wheel chair and held his head on my chest as we prayed. (his head kept bobbing around before I took control of it)

He asked later, who was that, He knew someone was praying from that position. (not from me but from faith)

Leonard loved, Loved a good joke, One of his favorite comedians was Jerry Clowers, (southern humorist)

He loved the recitation "Phone call from God". It was of the early 60's.

Leonard, as a Young man loved Rock and Roll. Little Richard was his favorite but he equally listened to Jerry Lee, The Big Bopper, Elvis, and a host of others.

But he would often say "OH my Soul". that was Little Richards quote.

My Mama died in 1999. He was unable to attend the funeral or the hospital to say Goodby. He called the hospital and told her something on the phone. He cried and cried but he was in the hospital so they monitored his heart closely.

A few weeks after she passed. I called him. I told him everything that happened in that room, that week, that day. I am sure some felt it was not a good thing to do. But I know it was OK. He again cried and cried when I told him of Mama reaching up to praise God, How she glowed when she left his earth. He neeed to hear that. He needed to know Mama had made her peace too.

Sometime we hide truth and that is not always the best thing. Sometime protecting someone hurts more than the truth. He said, "I never knew she did all that, Thank you for telling me." He now had hope of meeting her, how he could ever doubt is beyond me. I, again say, Humans expect perfection, Jesus accepts us as we are, we answer only to him.

I felt awful when he died. (of course I did) He was a brother, you never expect your generation to pass away.

It shows you just where you are in life.

He was only 61 when he died.

We all think we are immortal.. It just won't happen to us.

It does happen. life comes and goes. At this point We see two more generations after us.

My sister sees three more generations. She has great grandchildren.

So as we know our generation is passing.

I remember the first of my Generation to go on to meet God and see his passed loved ones again.

So today as I remember his birth month, I am recalling a simpler place and time in our lives. A time when it was 8 children and two parents, No worries, no adult decisions to make. A time of remembrance.

Just Remembering

"Make new friends but keep the old, one is silver the other is gold."
We have many golden friends. We have many silver friends.
We love each of them, as friends and enjoy each laugh, each smile, each minute we get to spend with them.
One and one half years ago, we almost lost Clay, a dear friend. He was the minister at two of our children's weddings. He has counseled our children, He has been a great friend.
He has been a constant in our lives since the early 1970's.
Last evening they had us over for dinner. We had such a wonderful time, We laugh and tell jokes and remember old friends that have gone on.
We have had so many people pass through our lives. What kind of influence did they make?
What kind of influence am I making? Will people recall me fondly?
We often quote some of our friends, we remember their mannerisms.
So many have gone on to be with the Lord.
We never know who is next,
" Maybe its you and then maybe its me, to be the next to face eternity."
How do we know, "I know my redeemer lives, and in him I am promised Eternal life."
We know we are ready to meet God in all his glory.
How about you? Are you happy with the life God gave you?
All it takes is a moment of reflection and you will see how far you have come.
I, for one, have come a long way from the little southern girl that was afraid of everything. Today I am afraid of nothing, I do worry about peoples attitude toward me, and I strive for perfection. But there is none perfect except for the Son of God.
However if I am faced with a challenge I will give it all I have to complete.
I may not run the fastest but I can run the race.
I can do all things through Christ who Strengthens me.

Just Laugh

The first time I read this was in the 1970's. I about rolled out of my chair laughing, I could not stop. A good belly laugh. So enjoy.

The Gastronomical Bean Story
Once upon a time there lived a man who had a maddening passion for baked beans. He loved them but they always had a very embarrassing and somewhat lively reaction on him.
Then, one day, he met a girl and fell in love. When it was apparent that they would marry, he thought to himself, "She is such a sweet and gentle girl, she will never go for this kind of carrying on."
So he made the supreme sacrifice and gave up beans. They were married shortly thereafter.

Some months later his car broke down on the way home from work, and since they lived in the country, he called his wife and told her that he would be late because he had to walk home.
On his way, he passed a small cafe and the odor of freshly baked beans was overwhelming. Since he still had several miles to walk, he figured that he would work off any ill effects before he got home, so he stopped at the cafe.
Before leaving he had eaten three large orders of baked beans. All the way home he putt-putted and after arriving felt reasonably safe that he had putt-putted his last.

His wife seemed somewhat agitated and excited to see him and exclaimed delightfully,
"Darling, I have this wonderful surprise for dinner tonight." She then blindfolded him and led him to his chair at the head of the dining table. He seated himself and just as she was ready to remove the blindfold, the telephone rang.
She made him vow not to touch the blindfold until she returned, then went to answer the phone. Seizing the opportunity, he shifted his weight to one leg and let go. It was not only loud, but as ripe as rotten eggs. He took the napkin from his lap and vigorously fanned the air about him. Things had just returned to normal when he felt another urge coming on him, so he shifted his weight to his other leg and let go again. This was a true prize winner.

While keeping his ear on the conversation in the hall, he went on like this for ten minutes until he knew the phone farewells indicated the end of his freedom. He placed his napkin on his lap and folded his hands on top of it, and smiled contentedly to himself. He was the very picture of innocence when his wife returned, apologizing for taking so long.
She asked if he had peeked and he of course assured her that he had not. At this point she removed the blindfold and there was his surprise....

Twelve dinner guests seated around the table for a "Happy Birthday Party."

Stay Postiive

Today is not one of my better days. I have not felt wonderful the last few days, Nothing I can put my finger on, but just so tired. I just want to sleep every time I sit down and I can not relax.
On Saturday I woke up with a huge zit between my breasts. It hurt awful. I do not have zits. And why one there? it is right on the scar, on a bulgy section of the scar. I bathe daily, I use good soap. I do not put any moisturized on that part of my body.
It is still there and as big as ever.
What do you do for a big Zit?
Yesterday I tell David I think I will keep the car tomorrow, I am going stir crazy. Maybe a little shopping will make me feel better.
I am going to check out the quilting machines, I really need to buy one, as many quilts as I make and I have to pay to have them quilted.
There is where the expense comes in.
But today I wake up with a hurting left arm. It just hurts.
Am I concerned it is my Heart? Yes.
Do I believe it is my Heart? NO
I refuse to believe that so it has to be muscle pain, That would be logical if I were left handed and had not sat on my behind for several days. Not even one stitch did I sew.
My BP has been horribly high, (well not horrible but higher than they want it and the doctor does not understand why it stays up Duh!! I have heart disease.) My cheeks are flushed every day, So what do I do?
Take an aspirin. Take a pill and wait it out.
Darn it. I want to get out of this house.
The weather just has to warm up. I can not handle this cool dreary day we keep having. I love to be in the sun, if doing nothing but sitting.
the last few days I have worn Davids flannel shirts or a sweater in the house.
I did work out one day, and mowed but I had on a flannel shirt while doing it and Jeans.
NO SHORT WEATHER.
So Today I think I will try to gt this arm in action and get out anyway.
I will be cautious, If I feel worse I will come home and sleep.
See I just got up and I am so tired. Darn it.
Laughter the best medicine. I felt great the other day when Sheri and I laughed and laughed on the phone about things that happen in church.
Silly things that should not make us laugh. But we had these big belly laughs.
That felt good, Of course I laugh a lot.
I laugh at my Wonderful Husband and the things he does and says. Or smiles, When I say something and he smiles at me and I say,
"You have no idea what I just said, Do You?"
He repeats something so far out there I laugh and laugh.
Poor guy, again Good thing he loves me.
He can not think of words, and his arms wave around in the air, I guess he is trying to catch a word. LOL
NO really it is funny but not funny. At least we can still laugh.

After 45 Years

Two hours ago they were bright and shiny and not bent. Even after being stored away for camp use.

In June we will be married for 45 years. You would think after that length of time I would know better.

For over 30 years they were in my camping supplies. I took good care of them, I had them safe.

Earlier this week, a gentleman was looking through my garage sale items, I have been accumulating for a while. On top he found them, He picked them up.

I said "OH No those are the first I ever owned. They are not for sale." I took them in the house for safe keeping. I had planned to hang then above my sink or whatever. I still may.

However tonight as "Someone" was washing dishes, I heard this awful noise . I ran in, The Garbage disposal was running, (it takes him a few moments to figure out something is wrong). He turns the disposal off. I have small hands so I can reach in to fish things out. As I reach in he says, "Oh it may be those spoons."

Spoons! No it can't be. It just can't be. I only left then unattended for a few minutes.

I pull one out, then two, then three, then four, I look at him and say,

"Oh Honey, they were so old, I saved them all these years."

He began to pick them up to throw away.

Again, "Oh No I have a good blog post, you blew it." Plus I am not throwing them away, that will be the job of one of you children. Someday.

So am I upset? No just a little sad. But they are only spoons. Waaaaahhhhhh

Or is it AHHHHHHHHHH MENNNN. (that looks like Amen, which it is not! It is MEN with a scream in front of it.)

But if he thinks this gets him out of dishes, HE IS SO WRONG. I COOK! HE CLEANS.

I Think

I will go outside and mow, with the tractor. Yesterday I cleared the orchard and my garden spot. I need to get it plowed up but do not want to do it too early.
One year we had great tomatoes in the orchard area. It am considering that again. If it grew good there a few years ago, why not now? I have not had the best of luck the last few years with tomatoes.
As I may have said, I am planting a black eye pea patch for "you pick." Hey it takes little water here and I can make money. I just have to getup early to greet the pickers and weigh their products. No I am not going to pick to sell. It is too hard on my neck and back.
I will raise corn again and possibly potatoes.
So my list is Corn, Peas, Potatoes, Squash, Yellow beans, Tomatoes. Not a bad garden, but enough to keep us busy this summer. I usually hate selling food, I usually give it away but this year is different. I will, however, take food to the homeless shelter. They need all the support they can get.
But for the grace of God there go I.
As soon as the temp outside hits 60 I will be out. You all know I hate to be cold. But the sun is mostly out so it should be OK.
I really need to paint my fruit tree bases. The paint wears off after one season.
Not a big chore just a chore.
David can not bend or I would wait and let him help. I cant stand to see him in misery, he tries so hard but he is just not agile at all. NO AGILITY. I do all I can to eliminate his working outside. He hires the yards done, as in mowing and edging. I bet you never thought you would see that come to pass, he loves his yard perfect. All manicured and edged and green. He wears out so easy. I hear him pant after walking the yard one time, and we have a self propelled mower.
OK enough, I guess I better go get myself busy, busy.

Happy Birthday to Our SIL

The first time I heard of Mike. Sheri was going to community college.

She informed us, "When I get to class this year, I am going to sit by someone I do not know and make new friends." Apparently she did that.

Mike was watching but it is our understanding all she did was Talk.

Sheri had been pretty much out of the dating game since High school. A few here and there but nothing she was crazy about or really wanted to see again.

So one day she comes in telling us "This guy has been hitting on her, only to find out he is married!" She is so mad! She is furious. Not only is he married but he is the father of a little boy.

She saw them in the store together.

Then she goes in to a local Movie rental store and sees him again, He is working there. She goes in with her brother. Now Mike thinks he also has competition until Sheri introduces her brother.

Now Mike has to make sure Sheri knows he was with his sister and her little boy.

What a confusion of misconceptions.

Mike had asked her out several times, one day she came in and again told us he kept asking her out, She was to give an answer later.

I had seen enough to know she was lonely but she just would not give guys the time of day.

So when he asked again, I asked a few important questions.

"Is he nice". Is he single? Is he OK?"

So what is the problem? According to her,she thought he was cute but did not want to date yet. (although she had put him off several times with work or whatever excuse she could come up with).

I finally said, " You say Yes, or you say No. Do not keep this up. It is not fair to him and you are not giving yourself a chance. "

She stormed out of the house and went to school.

At noon she bounced into my work place and said "Well I hope you are happy, I told him I would go to a movie with him." Now Mom is the bad guy.

I said "N not particularly but I do not want to see you keep beating yourself up, If you do not like him you can come home or you can not go again."

So that evening as He was due to arrive, I answered the door, I had to say, I do not know the problem he was gorgeous.

Sheri went out with him. Mike did everything correct. He took her to the movies, he bought advance tickets, No waiting in line. He was a gentleman. Then when they began dating, we saw the ever present ball cap. Mike has beautiful black hair (had) he keeps covered. But that is our Mike. The ever present cap and shorts. The ever present calm attitude. the Constant good Dad.

When she walked in that evening, she came to our room and sat on the end of the bed.

"Mom you were right, we are going out again, He was mature and had all the date in order, No kid stuff." When she walked out I smiled. I knew she was OK now.

So from day one they were inseparable. They were together nearly every day. When he went away to Sacramento to college I thought she and he were lost.

Within two months they were married. It was just too difficult being apart.

That was 17 years ago.

I have to say, I could not be happier with my son in law. We can joke and be friends. He is a wonderful dad to my grandchildren and he takes good care of my daughter.

What more can a Mom ask? He has met all our expectations and more.

Happy birthday Mike, You deserve a great day.

Love you Mom and Dad In Law