Early Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving has always been my favorite holiday - even when I was a kid.  It's always been the time for cousins, aunts, uncles, etc to all get together and just visit and eat.  About 20 years ago I've hosted Thanksgivings with close to 50 people a few times but it was usually more like 25 - 30.  A few years ago it just got to be too much - the family just kept growing and growing and my old body just couldn't keep up that pace.  So the last few years it's been our kids' families and Steve's mom.  I was at a loss when I found out all the kids had other things going this year.  Karl's family is coming in for the holiday for the first time in 8 years so Jen is getting her first big Thanksgiving dinner together.   Stevie & Jessie are spending the holiday with her family.  Becky & Nate were willing to come to dinner at both families but that seemed kinda silly to make them do that - especially since Al & Angie so graciously invited us and GG to join them for the day.  But I still couldn't just not have Thanksgiving with my kids so we did it today.  Hope I didn't spoil the real deal for them but I'm thankful for my beautiful family and their willingness to let me get my Thanksgiving fix.  And as has always been our tradition - since today was Thanksgiving here - tomorrow the Christmas tree goes up - Happy Holidays everyone!!

Happy Birthday Gracie

Today is Gracie's birthday and she had a great party last night.  She was so cute in her little pink tutu.  We had Dewey's pizza & salad and then Kelly R. had made her cakes and they were delicious and so adorable.  I think she got enough presents to last her until Christmas at least - the toy vacuum that Grandma & Grandpa Kelley got her was the hit with her and all the cousins - I think they should just make real ones and let the kids really clean.   We all had a great time and I hope you have another fun day today on your real birthday.  Happy Birthday Gracie - love you always!!

Book, Election, Illness, & Autumn

I'm sure a number of you were watching election results last night but I chose to curl up and finish a good book I was reading,  Ken Follett's World Without End.  It's a good historical fiction but not for the faint of heart.  In fact I think I caught my cold from it - there was a large section about a plague that starts with sneezing and that was when my 'sneezing' day hit - of course, mine only turned into a nasty cold that I'm still fighting but it doesn't look like I'm going to die from the plague.

The book also had a lot of politics in it - it was back in the 1300's in England - those poor people really had a lot to deal with - not only kings and lords but priests and priors.  

I am so VERY glad that this election is finally over - my phone has not rung once in the last hour!  I was never a strong opponent for either candidate, I just voted for what I considered to be the lesser evil.  I know we are all in God's hands and if Obama was His choice or not - He'll make something good come from it.  What I'm really hoping is that all the silly squabbling will stop -there have been elections where Steve and I simply went to cancel out each other's vote - but we didn't argue about it.  With a little maturity you realize that you can't make everybody see it your way so just accept the fact to agree to disagree but don't let it mess with your relationships.  We can overcome anything if we just let our love for each other come first.  I'm stealing a quote from Suzanne on FB who stole it from someone else's blog:

"No matter what happens on election day our task remains the same, to do justly, love mercy, and walk humbly."  

As for me, I'm ready to put the election behind me and just move on.  I always take fall pictures which is really kinda silly because you just can't really capture the beauty that God has created with these colors.  It's a 'you have to be there' kinda thing.  I think I will get dressed and go take a nice walk - the leaves are falling fast and furious now and wet and colder weather is headed our way - have to get in all this autumn joy while I can.  Hope you all have a great day!

Sorting Through Pictures

When I was a little girl, my mom had a single shoebox of pictures that I use to love to go through and look at.  I have 7 boxes of pictures that I chose not to put in my albums.  They just didn't take many pictures back then.  The earliest one I have of my mom was when she graduated high school and I only have one of my dad as a child before his graduation picture.  There are a few of my McCoy grandparents that are pretty good but I'd love to have a good photo of my Cloud grandparents.  There really are not very many of me as child either - lots of Nancy and Jimmy though :)

I can remember taking pictures of my own kids and just hoping I got a half way decent shot because I only had a few more frames left and I might need those shots for something else that might happen that day.

Today we have digital and I love it because you don't have to worry about using up too much film for a single shot - you can take 20 of the same moment and still have plenty left on your little card - whatever it's called.

But that also means when my kids give me over 500 pictures to choose from for my own albums - I end up with lots of pictures.  In 2007 when we had 3 grandkids born  - I have four albums for the one year.  Before digital I could have 2 years of pictures in one album.  But I still love the digital - even if I can't fit them all in my albums - I have boxes!  There are some pictures that just highlight a certain personality that I want to keep even if I don't put them in my album.

For example:

What we like to call Spencer's 'Chandler' smile

Coen's innocent look 

The Gracie Stare - she can outstare anyone.

Ayden's 'I'm not sure I like this' expression

And I have no idea what expressions we'll be getting from Jackson in the future

 - but he even sleeps cute.

Remember all those old war movies and stories where they had a single photo of their family or 'true love' - I don't know but I'm guessing that the new technology allows our heroes to carry several family pictures on little key ring size albums.  I guess it's kinda like the difference between getting a letter and a dozen emails today - I still miss letters but that's a whole different story.

5 Things

I have been tagged.

10 Years ago I was:

1.-Missing Jen away at Mizzou but knew she was having fun.

2.- Missing Becky away at DLU and very sad because I knew she was terribly homesick.

3.- Keeping track of Stevie and going to his basketball games. (this is the right season isn't it, Stevie?)

4.- Just recently went to Edward & Karen's wedding.

5.- Working as church secretary.

5 things on today's 'to do' list:

1.- Do my physical therapy exercises and take a walk.

2.- Run errands to Walgreens, Schnucks, bookstore,  Target.

3.- Catch up on my bible reading and my 2 & 3 year old bible lessons.

4.- Clean off my desk!

5.- The usual laundry and kitchen duties.

5 snacks I enjoy:

1.- coffee & biscotti

2,- ice cream

3.- anything cheesy

4.- chocolate cookies and milk

5.- chips and dip

5 things I would do if I were a millionaire:

1.-3 -  Give some to my kids for house payments or bills

4.- give to church and charities

5. - save for my old folks home so I don't have to go to the one Nate picked out for me.

5 places I have lived:

1.- South St. Louis with parents

2.- OCC - Oklahoma

3.- South county with Steve & Jen

4.- present home with Steve & kids - and now just Steve again

5.- TBA in about 40 years

5 jobs I have had:

1.- bus girl/cashier at Miss Hullings

2.- check out at Bettendorf's/Schnucks

3.- payroll, cost acct., and acct.s rec. at Alumax foils

4.- part time work with a temp service and at Rotolite

5.- secretary at McKnight

OK - now I tag Sherri and Lindsey because they desperately need to change their blogs!

When I was in 8th grade I had one of my favorite all time teachers who was also a close friend of my mom's from church- Mrs. Flowers.  She always made us reach beyond what we thought we could do.  One of the things we had to do since it was an election year was to give a speech to support a candidate we chose.  On graduation day she gave us all little diplomas with her predictions of what we would become in life.  Mine said (I still have it): "Ann McCoy is the first woman mayor of St. Louis.  She became interested in politics while making speeches at Oak Hill during the 1964 Presidential Campaign."

And then when I decided to take Paralegal courses, the only avenue was to major in Political Science.

I find this all very amusing because in truth I have a very strong dislike for politics!

Basically it's the constant bickering and mud slinging I hate so much. I've always avoided confrontations and debates.  I was tired of the commercials after the first week they began and I've quit answering the phone or the doorbell unless I'm sure of who it is.  But of course I cannot truly escape the election.  It's discussed within the family, who all have different ideas and reasons as to who should be president.  I hear it whenever we're with friends or neighbors - it even got more discussion at my book club last night than the book we were suppose to discuss!!

Now before you start lecturing me about how I should be informed and appreciate my freedoms - let me make it clear that I find all this campaigning very annoying but fully realize how necessary it is.  And I am deeply appreciative of my freedoms - I thank God everyday for allowing me to live in the USA.  I admit I kinda wish God would just give us a president like when He had David anointed but that's not the way it works these days.  I will vote on election day but I am waiting until most of you are done 'campaigning' and the dust has settled before I make my choice.

The bible says that we are to obey and show respect to our rulers as long as their laws don't contradict God's laws.  I can do that.  Even if I don't believe in their policies that might support abortion, gay rights, give us lousy medical choices, ruin our economy, keep us in the war or pull us out too soon - whatever - I can be a law abiding citizen and still retain my own personal beliefs and remain faithful to God.  God's people have been doing that from the start.

So, I look forward to the day this is all settled and for four more years we just move on.  I just hope most everyone can 'just move on'.  (I hear that there are some who still fight the Civil War.)   Here is a quote from a book I liked (Tending Roses by Lisa Wingate) that I hope can be taken to heart.

"What we cannot change, we must endure without bitterness.  Sometimes we must try to view the actions of those around us with forgiveness.  We must realize that they are going on the only road they can see.  Sometimes we cannot raise our chins and see eye to eye, so we must bow our heads and have faith in one another."

Memory of a Doctor

Last night as I was leaving my bible class I saw Dr. J taking one of his young patients aside for a quick check on something - I know he's good about that and my daughters love that he is the pediatrician for their kids.  Our family doctor is great about that also.  Dr. C has checked on me a number of times and I often see him taking others aside for a quick 'office' visit.  It is nice having Christian doctors who feel more like family than doctor.

But for some reason I had a back flash of the doctor of my youth - Dr. S.

I really only remember 3 incidents about Dr. S but it's enough to be extra thankful for people like Dr. C and Dr. J.

The first thing I remember about him was when I was about 5 years old.  I played with the 2 boys down the block and one night Davey tried to jump over the fire hydrant and was badly hurt.  Now why I thought I could jump over the fire hydrant after watching Davey get hurt is beyond me.  I was never considered the brains in the family.   So, I tried the same trick the next night and split my head open.  I remember 3 things (aren't you proud of me Uncle Ed - three points within my three points!!)

1- I remember my brother Joe scooping me up and placing me on the kitchen table - which I just couldn't believe I was laying on the kitchen table bleeding all over.

2- I remember my mom crying - and I guess it must have been the first time I had seen her cry.  After all, she was always telling me that if I didn't hush my crying she would give me something to cry about.   I was a very sensitive and emotional child but I knew she never hesitated when she started swinging that hairbrush.

3- And I'm not sure if I really remember this or just the retelling of this - but Dr. S yelling at mama for bringing me to City Hospital.

The second Dr. S incident was an office visit.  Again - I'm not sure if I really witnessed this or just remember the story.  But mama was taking either Jimmy or I for a doctor visit and we were the next ones to be called into his office.  The door opened and this kid came out screaming and holding his face - and his mother was furious!  When we walked into the office Dr. S said "the kid kicked me so I slapped him" and he seemed to think that slapping a young child was quite all right.  Today he would be sued if not worse.

The third incident was one I remember quite well.  I was in high school and had a plantar's wart on my foot.  He began by telling me that he would burn it out and of course this sounds scary to me.  So I ask if it will hurt and he fumed a little and said I wouldn't feel a thing.  I was doubtful but I let him do it and it really wasn't too bad.  After I had this open wound he told me he was going to pour alcohol over it.  Worried about the pain, I pulled back my foot and he lost it.  Went ballistic!  He ripped off a bandage on his hand and poured the bottle of alcohol over it and yelled, "see it doesn't hurt - I didn't even wince!!!"  I actually doubt if he would have winced no matter how much it might hurt.   I couldn't wait to get out of there and I'm pretty sure that was the last time I went to him.

Shortly after that we heard he had a major stroke and our records were passed on to another doctor who was a bit of a quack but at least he didn't scare me.  REALLY makes me appreciate Dr. C and glad the kids have Dr. J!!

NOT My Favorite Book

I just finished reading The Story of Edgar Sawtelle.  I wish I had known that Oprah was going to make this book her book club choice and then I wouldn't have bothered to have read it.  As a rule, any book Oprah suggests I refuse to read.   She seems to go for the depressing 'what was the point in reading this' book.  

I admit there have been a few exceptions when I had read a book and liked it and THEN found out she had it on her list.  Sad to say, I was already two-thirds through this book before she announced it as her latest book choice - and another rule I have is once I've started a book I will finish the book no matter how bad it is.  Don't get me wrong - I have nothing against Oprah.  Truthfully, I really don't know much about her but my daughter tells me she's very generous and basically has a good heart - she just happens to enjoy books that I don't.

What's the problem with the book?  If  you have a deep desire to know the details about dog training, what a dog might be thinking, or the history of this particular dog farm - (all of which has almost nothing to do with the story line) and you like really dumb endings where the dog is the only winner - then please enjoy.

There is actually a good story line about a mute 'dog whisperer' boy, his family, and his relationship with the dogs.  It has some paranormal and some mystery but you could easily cut out about 250 of the 560 pages and not miss a thing.  I hope I haven't ruined the book for anyone - I know there are some who will really enjoy the book - like Oprah - but I prefer to get my book suggestions from friends like Cathy, Kathryn, Nancy and Kris - who haven't steered me wrong yet.

New Grandson

9#( actually 8# 15 & 9/10 ounces)        21 inches 

everyone is doing well

Memory Flickers 1 & 2

I'm not sure that 'memory flickers' is a good description but it's a mix of deja vu and 'reminds me of'.   Deja vu is like when you think you've been someplace before and 'reminds me of' is like whenever I smell Old Spice - it reminds me of daddy.  

Every once in a while there may be a scent - but more often it is a sound coupled with the atmosphere being exactly right - the right time of day and the same type of weather.  I'm usually alone with my thoughts when they occur.

Even though I'm calling these #1 & #2 - I've actually been having them for as long as I can remember. Anyway -

For example, Memory Flicker #1 was last week.  I was taking a walk around 10 am and it was a brisk but very sunny morning.  There were a number of tree trimmers in the neighborhood - and wham! I was in kindergarten standing in the sunshine at the big picture window listening to the tree trimmers.

Memory Flicker #2 - I was driving with the radio off on a drizzly late afternoon when I was suddenly aware of the noise the tires of the cars made on the wet pavement - and my memory zapped me back to a rainy afternoon when my little brother and I were in the back seat of my parents car on our way to Gravois Bootery to get new shoes.

Maybe I'm just crazy - but do you guys have these little 'memory flicker moments'?

They kinda amuse me (yes, I'm easily amused) and they give me a warm feeling.  Don't be surprised if I decide to share my 'memory flickers' with you.  Do you think I should patent that name?  Anybody else want to share their memory flickers?

Wandering Thoughts

I should be getting ready for bed right now but my mind is on some kind of stroll through a maze of thoughts.  In no particular order:

 - tomorrow Spencer starts back to preschool and I hope he loves it again like last year.

 - wondering how Jessie is feeling and how soon grandbaby #5 will arrive?

 - Jen & Karl celebrate their 8th anniversary tomorrow - how is this possible?

 - I'm really tired of watching politics on television - but I still don't know who I'll vote for - I just wish the election was all over.

 - PS I Love You was really a great movie - now I want to go to Ireland and learn Celtic

 - I hope Gracie is feeling better

 - glad Gustav wasn't as bad as Katrina and Im REALLY thankful none of my children wanted to be storm chasers (did you see those guys of tv??)

 - Why is it that I can't seem to ever get this house clean?

 - I need 5 'take-homes' for David & Goliath in October - that's harder than it sounds

 - let's say summer is over and have some wonderful cool, crisp weather and lovely falling leaves 

But the thought that I like to fall asleep with is:

 - I have the most amazing children who are so good to me and have made great choices for a mate - and then to top it all off they have given me the most precious and entertaining grandchildren ever possible.

 Good night friends - sweet dreams

School Days

Cleveland High School

I was watching a commercial the other day about school clothes and I couldn't help but wander back into my memory when I would get all excited about new school clothes.  Of course, way back then, it was a totally different world.  

Girls always wore skirts or dresses (no more than an inch above the knee) and boys had to wear shirts with a collar and it had to be tucked in their slacks - no jeans or t-shirts for anyone ever!  I don't remember anyone ever wearing sneakers except in gym class.  And the girls gym uniform was a blue one piece bloomer thing where we had to sew our names across the back.

Other things have changed as well.   I don't remember having to buy any school supplies until maybe high school.  And maybe it was because I grew up in south city and not the county but grade school was from kg - 8th grade and almost everyone went home for lunch.  I remember I was really disappointed when I realized my own kids would have to eat lunch at school.  Of course it makes sense, but lunch time was a little tradition all in itself.

But do they still say the Pledge of Allegiance in school?  I remember one of my favorite songs from school was "Fairest Lord Jesus" - I'm almost certain you won't hear that very often anymore.  One thing that is really sad is the leniency in behavior now.  Curse words or even ugly talk were not tolerated anymore than a fist fight was.  

Of course, kids are much smarter these days and they are given a  lot more opportunities.  I guess you have to sacrifice some and choose the lesser evils.  

One good thing - at least the little girls don't have to worry about the little boys lifting their skirts to see their underwear!

Sunday is Stevie's birthday!

The 4 cousins celebrating Daddy/Uncle Stevie's birthday!

The birthday boy is always smiling

My kids are all growing up too fast - can't believe my baby is going to be 27 tomorrow.  He is already a terrific husband and daddy - just like I always knew he would be.  And he's still the thoughtful and loving son with big hugs and his beautiful smile.  Have a great birthday Stevie - love you always!!

What are these plants?

Although I really wish I were - I'm no gardner.  Since momma & daddy were both great in a garden you would think I would have inherited some of that knowledge.  I don't mind getting dirty - I have always had house plants  - it's the heat and bugs that keep me out of our 72 foot planter that runs along the back of our yard.  

We (Steve mostly) try to plant things in the empty spaces that we hope will make it look better but every year we have big empty spaces and lots of greenery which I'm sure is just some sort of weed.  I didn't realize how bad it was until a neighbor remarked to me one day that the previous owner had always kept the planter gorgeous.  hint-hint - Oh well.  

But these purple plants (planted by the previous owner of course) have survived the whole 30 years we've lived in this house.  Each year there are more of them and they seem to be taller every year.  They spring up a few times a year and they last maybe a month each time.  And for some reason it just occurred to me that I have no idea what the name of the plant is.  In my walks around the neighborhood I've only seen one other home with these plants and they only had a few shoots.  

So if you know what these plants are, would you be so kind as to give me their name - they've been so good to me I would at least like to know their name when I go out to talk to them. 

Never on a Monday

About this time 36 years ago I was putting on the finishing touches as I prepared to walk down the aisle.  I don't remember it being this hot that year but I have no idea why I'd plan a wedding in the heat of the summer - plus the wedding dress style back then was long sleeves and high necks - at least air conditioning was common by then!  When Steve and I celebrate our anniversary we are usually low key type of people - I know one year we went to New Orleans and on our 30th we took the kids to Las Vegas - but usually dinner and maybe a movie is more our style.  

This year Steve decided to take off for the day and then asked me where I wanted to go.  I had never been to Washington, MO so I thought that might be a nice little jaunt - however, that was before I knew the heat index would be triple digits.  

So we went to IHOP for breakfast and then had a nice little drive to Washington.  Our plan was to walk around and see what there was to see, have lunch and head back home.  Well guess what - there is not a whole lot to see there and 80% of what is there is closed on Monday.  So I guess we spent about 45 minutes wandering around at a few shops (I think we found 3 open ones), checked out the Amtrak station (even the tourist center next door was closed), and then decided we might as well head home - besides, I was already caving in from the heat.

We ended up going to a matinee to see the Batman movie.  It was alright but so loud it really gave me a headache.  My headache and the heat kinda messed with my appetite so we just grabbed a bite at Fridays and came home.  But that's ok cause we are celebrating again Saturday night with the Beardens - whose anniversary was a few days ago - and are planning to dine at a nice restaurant that night.

Right now Steve is downstairs with his Pinocle buddies and I'm debating whether I want to watch tv reruns or finish reading a book I'm really not enjoying (it's our book club selection).  Maybe I'll just go ahead and start on a new book and finish the other tomorrow.   Which reminds me - I'm running out of books on my list - anyone have some good ones to suggest?  thanks - and stay cool!

Party weekend

Ayden & Daddy

Mommy & Daddy helping with the presents.

Following a busy VBS week I just crashed on Friday nite and we watched a double feature here at home.  But Saturday brought some new excitement.  It was Ayden's 1st birthday and she had a great big party.  I always let Jen & Becky post their kid's events but Jessie & Stevie don't have a blog so I hope it was ok that I post some pictures from the party.  I think we all had a great time and I enjoyed getting to visit with all Jessie's family.  It's always fun watching all the kids interact.  Somehow I missed getting a picture of Veronica (Jessie's niece) but trust me, she's a cutie too.  Tomorrow is Ayden's 'real' birthday - HAPPY BIRTHDAY AYDEN - WE LOVE YOU!!

Coen & Mommy

Mommy & Gracie

A big smile from Spencer

Birthday girl playing her piano for us.

Ayden looks like she's thinking, "where am I going to put all this stuff?"

Ayden's birthday cake - I think she liked it!

 

From a Child's Point of View

I'm working with the 2 & 3 year olds at VBS this year.  It's funny how we adults think a kid should enjoy certain activities and yet we have to almost drag them around and try to convince them that 'this is fun!"    At this young age it could just be nap time but sometimes I really think our 2 & 3 year olds would like to just sing a few songs they already know, hear a story, some of them want to 'make' something but the best part is a simple snack (animal crackers or goldfish) and just let them run & play.

Of course the older kids get more out of all the activities going on.  My grandson Spencer is 4 and I have been driving him home after VBS.  He is very verbal and sometimes I forget he's only 4 because he can be so mature - but I love hearing his version of what he did at VBS that day.  He quickly figured out by my questions that I already know what he's been doing since all ages follow the same routine.  So when he was tired of talking about it (this is his lunch & nap time) he tells me, "Nana, you already know what games we played."

The one thing he's been consistent about the last few days is that he doesn't like Chadder because he's scary.  Chadder is a people sized chipmunk - he is in fact the hero of the little movie they watch.  This movie has thunder storms, a scary museum in an old castle, a weird mad scientist, trap doors that lead to a dark & scary science lab, people turning into hairy animals - and all of this is accompanied with that haunted house music - and this sweet boy doesn't like Chadder because he's scary - all the other stuff doesn't bother him in the least.  Kids are so great and so much fun - and I think we should really pay close attention to their point of view sometimes.

Birthday Girl

Today is Jenny's birthday - Italian dinner and a very yummy strawberry chocolate cake from Maggie Moos!  We had lots of fun and lots of action with 4 grandkids  - it's hard to believe that it was 32 years ago that the  birthday girl was just a baby.  You look to young to be over 30!!  I love you Jenny and you are always my little girl but I love the mommy, wife, and caring daughter you've grown up to be.  Hope your day was happy and you get to celebrate the whole rest of the week!! :)

I Went to Yemen Today

I'm sure most of you have noticed the latest additions to a lot of blogs lately - the maps or listing of places that have viewed that blog recently.  I know some of the blogs have gotten some hits from some exotic locations - but I was tickled that I was hit by more than from St. Louis.  

As I check these locations I find myself trying to figure out if it's someone I know or just an accidental hit - who are you guys anyway?  When I actually got one that wasn't even in the USA I was really stumped.  It says Izmir, Izmir.  I checked and it's in Turkey - that had to be accidental.  But it made me wonder - how many countries are there in the world?  I've always been lousy at geography but lucky for me - we have the internet.  

Actually the answer depends on who you ask - it is anywhere between 192 and 195 - countries, that is.  Have you ever heard of Qatar, Chad, or Bhutan?   Of course there is also the complication of names changing and borders moving, etc,.  There are also somewhere between 58 and 61 colonies and territories that belong to about 8 of these countries.  The USA either owns 12 or 14.  I know of Puerto Rico, Virgin Islands, & Guam - but where is Baker & Hawland Islands?

I know you're wondering 'where is she going with this?' - to Yemen and San Marino of course.  One of the web sites was Global Web Explorer which invites you to visit some of these places via internet.  I checked out quite a few but most of them were in a foreign language (imagine that!) or you had to have 'clearance'.  Anyway I did visit Yemen a little and I chose it because I remembered it from "Friends" - remember when Chandler claimed he was moving to Yemen?  And I checked out San Marino because it claims to be the oldest republic in the world and it's the 3rd smallest country in the world - it's a rather interesting place I think I'd like to visit.

So actually this blog is nothing but rambling and a few statistics - but just in case you were wondering what I did today - I went to Yemen.  You all have a great week!!

Great Classic

OK - I may be the only person who has never read this book but Uncle Tom's Cabin is a 'must read' classic!  I'm not sure why I had never read it and I've actually owned it for a few years but kept putting off getting into it - but once I got started  I was surprised how easily I got wrapped up in it.  I figured an old book like that would be dry and difficult to struggle through.  It would probably be filled with sermonizing and archaic language.  But the language was like any you would find in a historical novel written today about that period in history.  And there were definitely sermons woven into the story but you never felt preached at  - it was more like a good ole' vibrant action packed tent meeting that was easy to relate to.  In fact, I think Uncle Tom is my new spiritual earthly hero.  As you wonder if someone could actually remain so faithful and righteous with all the misery and pain they put him through, you realize it was his faith and  drawing himself closer to God rather than turning his  back on Him that got him through.  I strive for that close relationship he attained with God and I do believe that there are people like Uncle Tom who survive many sorrows by clinging to their faith so intently.  

I also never knew the history of the book itself.  It is historical fiction for us now but it was written in 1851-52 and was present day life for Harriet Beecher Stowe.  Just like books we would now find written about our current news stories.  It was written after the Fugitive Slave Law came in effect.  This law said that Northerners were required to return any runaway slaves to their masters in the South.  H. B. Stowe wanted to bring to light the lives these slaves were running from.  Several, Abe Lincoln included, felt this book fueled the fire that started the Civil War.  

If you're considering reading this book don't be afraid that it may be too graphic because H.B. Stowe did a great job of alluding to misery rather than giving gory details.  I'm sure there are a lot of great classics I need to read - I've read Mark Twain, Louisia May Alcott, and C.S. Lewis - any suggestions for other classic 'must reads'?

Neighbors & Cooking

For all those who felt I probably came from the 'wrong side of the tracks' - here's your proof - washing machine on the back porch - that should say it all.  All I need is an old couch on the front porch and I'm in the club.  Actually I'm getting a new floor in my laundry room but seeing the machine on my back porch just made me wonder what my neighbors would think.  Lucky for me I've got some of the best neighbors in town - one of the reasons we could never bring ourselves to look for a larger house and just kept adding on.  Since we were the 'younguns' when we moved in here all our older families keep moving to condos and such but so far the 'replacements' have been very nice but the close knit feeling just isn't the same.  Our first neighbors when we moved here (with one exception) was as good as growing up in south St. Louis.  Good neighbors are quite a blessing.

What does that have to do with cooking?  Nothing at all.  I went to my friends blog to check out her version of last night's episode of 'Food Star Network Challenge' - (her version always gives me a chuckle) but instead I found her "I Came From" blog.  It was fun reading and I may attempt to do my own but it probably won't be as organized and poetic as hers. 

 Anyway - back to cooking.  As I watched the show last night I kept thinking "there's no way in the world I could do what they are asked to do"  If you gave me 6 items and told me to make a dish from them I'd have to go to a recipe search engine.  If you gave me a dish to taste and had to describe it - I could never pick out all the different spices - I don't even know what saffron looks like much less how it tastes and smells!  And if you tell me I only have 45 minutes to cook & plate a meal - well, let's just say I don't work well under pressure.  

I understand that these people are claiming to be chefs and they've asked for this challenge.   Although, I think several have found out they bit off more than they could handle.  I agree they should have more than my basic knowledge  - they should know all about food and how one compliments another.  They should be able to whip up dishes more easily than I and without a cookbook handy.  They should even be able to make the plate look appetizing.  So - my question is - for the rest of us, what makes a good cook.  I've always admired friends and family who know what a dish needs or has too much of - or can tell you how to cook something without looking it up first.  I don't consider myself a good cook even though people have been very kind and complimented what I've prepared.  But I have to plan ahead, make a list, use a recipe and all my measuring instruments (none of that 'eyeballing' it for me).  And there have still been a few times when we just choked down our meal or sent out for pizza.  The closest I've ever come to creating a dish is when I combine several recipes using the ingredients that my family likes.  So, just for fun, I have a little poll set up to see what you consider a good cook.  

Well, I'm gonna go whip me up some gourmet lunch - yeah, right - ha :)

Summer Overdone

I know that most of you are loving this heat and lazy days of summer -

 but I for one long for the crisp cool days of autumn.

The bad part is - it's still only JUNE!!

Mama would say I'm wishing my life away - so I'll try to endure and delight in the pleasures of summer - like fresh tomatoes and watermelon - lots of green and various flowers - no coats and lighter laundry.  Actually, summer just doesn't do much for me but it is easier to delight in what it means for others that I care about: like more golf and baseball games for Steve and the guys; lots of backyard and water playtime for my grandkids and their mommies - and they love Grant's Farm and the zoo.  Summer is worth it just to see them all have so much fun - but I think I'll stay hibernated in the AC and look forward to long walks in the falling leaves and drinking coffee on my back porch.

Dreams, Beans, & Other Things that I don't know what they mean

Steve & I went out to eat last night and then to see The Producers at the Muny.  As I looked around the restaurant I noticed that out of the 10 occupied tables - 7 of them were really old couples - I'm talking upper 80's here.  For some reason this really bothers me - am I being gently shuffled into an old folks home without my knowledge.  Steve says it's the economy - young families can't afford to go out to eat as often anymore.  But I don't know - it seemed kinda 'twilight zoney' to me.  As for The Producers - it was a beautiful night to be outside but I wish they would have quit making so much noise on the stage - or in other words:  it was bearable but nothing I would recommend.

Dreams have always intrigued me.  My mama use to have some of the craziest dreams ever and I've known several to dream of events that actually happened later.  I saw my niece Meredith in my dreams before I knew she was born - looked just like her.  My dad had a second middle name (which he always denied but it was on his birth certificate) because his mother dreamed a great aunt visited her in a dream and reminded her this baby was to bear her name - so Alason was added to his James David.   I know everyone dreams and we all have those weird 'what did I eat before I went to bed?' dreams - but lately I'm dreaming in snippets.    The first night it was like I was dreaming in snippet flashes - I kept waking up in between the dreams (at least I think I was really waking up) but I was very aware the dreams were all the same sort but just quick flashes that really had no connection.  Last night the dreams were like I was watching movie previews or commercials - I never got to see the 'feature presentation'.  Any dream experts out there to tell me what this might mean - maybe I just need to go live in the woods for awhile away from technology.

And just in case you're wondering - I have nothing to say about 'beans' - it just made my title flow better.  :)

Have a great day and sweet dreams!

Father's Day

Tomorrow is Father's Day.  I had a wonderful daddy and I miss him so much.  He was one of those people you just enjoyed being with - even when he was 'trying' to be hard to get along with - he loved to tease and always put me in a good mood. 

 Happy Father's Day Daddy!

I have a son and 2 son-in-laws that have proven to me that they are fantastic fathers already.  It's fun to watch them goo at their babies and I know they will raise my grandchildren to be amazing people and they will bring them up to know and love God.

Happy Father's Day Karl, Stevie, & Nate!

Nate & Gracie (yes I stole this picture from Becky's blog)

Stevie & Ayden

Karl & his boys - Spencer & Coen

And then there is the father of my children.  Thank you Steve for being a good Christian example for our children and for all the fun you brought into our lives.

Happy Father's Day Steve - And Happy Belated Birthday Party!

Just Thinking Out Loud

Two Thoughts:

# 1 -TV Reality shows

I know lots of people that truly love all those reality shows - but I have a tough time with them.  I'm not really sure what characterizes a "reality" show, but I see 3 different groups.  There's the 'out on an island' or 'let's all live in one house' group - I really have no interest in watching people swat bugs and argue about who's side who is on.  I'm not sure that sentence makes sense - but you get my drift.  

Then there's the very worse group - I'm not sure if there's more than one show of this sort but I caught the last 2 minutes of Moment of Truth - these people are crazy.  I'm guessing it's all show and they're all really lying- but still - who want's to watch that?

Then there's the 3rd group - and I can understand the attraction to some of them - Idol and Can you Dance type shows.  By a friend's encouragement I actually watched the Food Network show about finding a new 'cooking star' and it wasn't too bad.  I know I'm just too wimpy but it hurts me to see those people get put down.  

I guess I'll just stick to the bloody, violent shoot 'em and cut 'em up shows like NCIS, CIS, and House.  I really don't like the blood and violence but I enjoy the drama and  chemistry between the characters.

 #2 - Books of a 'spiritual' nature:

I just finished reading "The Shack" because I had heard so many people talking about it.  It was ok but not one I'd recommend to anyone - too wordy & preachy for me.  But I noticed as I read this book - sometimes the author says things that IF he really knew what he was talking about, he would have answered some question of mine.  I have to stop and remind myself that he's not receiving this by inspiration - he's just another guy with his own opinion, regardless if I happen to like that opinion or not.  Which made me think about all the other books that I've read that had the same effect on me - sometimes about heaven, miracles, angels, or the 'last days'.  We have the Left Behind series, 5 People You Meet In Heaven, This Present Darkness, City of Angels, 90 Minutes in Heaven, Can't Wait to Get to Heaven, Peace Like a River, and even Stephen King's Last Stand.  I'm know there are plenty more.  I figure God is shaking his head and just laughing at us.

One final thought for the day: I know most of you are loving this summer weather - But I would really love to have a summer of 60- 70 degrees - but I guess that's just me.  Everyone have a good week and all you daddies have a great Father's Day.

Someone is 59!

Doesn't look a day over 58 does he?  

And he'll always be a little kid at heart!

We will have to wait until kids return from trips 

and the dust settles before we can really take him out to celebrate.

But that doesn't mean he's not already another year older.

Happy Birthday Steve!  Love you

High School Reunions

My daughter was mentioning that her 10 year class reunion was this summer - although I know that can't be true because it was bad enough when her older sister had hers (4 years ago!) and I know I couldn't be that old.  

Anyway, as it would happen, I also found myself perusing that Classmate website - which led to them sending me emails.  You know the ones "See who's checking up on you by giving us money - yada, yada, yada"  But they did email me that I could check out someone's photo album for free.  It happened to be a girl I went to grade school & high school with and it was pics from out last reunion (guess how many years) which I did not attend- so of course - I checked it out.   WHO WERE THOSE OLD PEOPLE?? :)

I've never been very good at recognizing someone I've not seen in years but I did actually pick out a few familiar faces - but most of them were just total strangers to me.  Which got me thinking - if they have another one next year (which is another landmark year for us) should I go?  I can't imagine what I would have to say to most of them - if I could even figure out who they are.  Oh I know there will be name tags but unless they are written in about 50 font - I will have to stand very close to read them.  And even then - can I be sure I'll remember who they are.

The truth is - I don't think I really like reunions as such.  I know I'm probably the odd one -Steve would probably enjoy mine even more than I would but that's because he has never struggled to find something to say even to a total stranger.  

I remember the 10 year reunion - everyone still recognizable but a few shocking changes and we were just starting to get on with our own personal lives.  The 20 year was a little harder and the 25 - except for a few old friends I really wanted to see, I couldn't wait to leave.   And I think that is my problem - I'm not a party person - I prefer one to one get-togethers.  I've only kept in touch with a couple of friends from those years.  I tried to do better but you know how life gets in the way.  So I can't decide if it is worth my discomfort to try and catch up with a few people I really would like to see - or should I just skip it and save myself the grief (you know what I mean - there's the diet - the right outfit - the haircut, etc. etc.   Any suggestions?

More Birthday

We celebrated Karl's birthday last night - can't believe he's 34 - seems like I was just 34!  Karl is a wonderful son-in-law that loves his wife & kids and is happy to include all his in-laws as family - what more could a mother want.  He's one of those people I think of when you hear about 'Random Acts of Kindness' - he's quick to see what someone needs and always jumps in and lends a helping hand.   Happy Birthday Karl - I love you!  (See Jen's blog for better pictures.)

It's been another busy week - Jen & Karl are working on getting their new house ready to move into - my three kids all have 'teething babies' right now - and we celebrated Jessie's graduation from graduate school - yeah Jessie.  Ok - so I guess everyone else has been busy - not sure what I've been doing but I feel like I've been busy.  Hope everyone has a safe and relaxing Memorial Day weekend.

Birthday Time

Look whose birthday it is!!  A great dinner,  very yummy ice cream cake and good time with family.  Hope Gracie sleeps in for you and your day is full of love & sunshine  - just like you.  You are my very favorite middle child - and I love you always!

Mother's Day & Other Random Thoughts

Ducks: 

The last few days we've seen these four ducks wandering around our neighborhood.  I know it's not as exciting as a deer or maybe an elephant - but it was fun watching them waddle from yard to yard.  Jen said she saw some ducks over by her new house also - wonder if they were the same ones??  I tried to get a picture of them but every time I'd take a step closer they'd be on the move again.

Computers:

My computer quit on me a few weeks ago and so I was without internet - but I learned life still goes on - of course it helps if you have children who let you log in on theirs now and then.

Mother's Day:

Mama has been gone for 18 years now - doesn't seem possible.  Although I find Mother's Day to be a Hallmark money making event - it is a good time to recognize mothers.  My mom was a wonderful mom and I wish I had spent more time listening to her and sharing my children with her.  Happy Mother's Day Mama.

And even though my favorite sister never tried to "mother" me - she has been an excellent example for me in raising 2 girls & a boy - and she always has the answers I need if I ask - Happy Mother's Day Nancy

And of course - the mothers of my grandchildren:

You girls are doing an outstanding job of loving & caring for my grandchildren - I'm proud of all of you.  I know there will always be tough days (even when they are adults with their own families) and as the quote says in my sidebar -"You're only as happy as your unhappiest kid." - but it's all worth it and the happy days make it all worthwhile.

love you - Happy Mother's Day Jenny, Becky & Jessie!!!