On the Other Hand

Be Careful Little Ears What You Hear

2011-11-20T14:36:00.001-05:00

My granddaughter has developed a keen interest in learning about her mommy's childhood. Some questions are sparked from mommy relating stories. Toots is checking to see if mommy's stories really happened. It won't be long before those questions could be used against mommy. God give me wisdom in my revelations.

I Want That

2011-11-19T18:04:00.001-05:00

My granddaughter, Toots, is looking through store ads. Suddenly she says, "Mimi, I want this."
Me, "What is it?"
Toots: "I don't know but it is 30% off!"

Hold the...

2011-11-12T17:15:00.001-05:00

A young friend of mine has not felt well this week. So he asked his momma for hi-C from a fast food place. When time to order he said he would have a happy meal with Hi-C, hold the food. Too funny.

Shopping for Thanksgiving Turkey

2011-11-12T05:24:00.001-05:00

While driving near my home with my granddaughter, Toots, we saw a gathering of wild turkeys in a field. Toots counted around 30 of the huge fowl. Suddenly, she suggested that we kill one for our Thanksgiving meal. Hmmmm. No can do. I'd rather find mine in the freezer at the local store.

Choir Cracker

2011-11-11T21:19:00.001-05:00

Toots has loved going to the chiropractor with me. I love her pronunciation of it. Must say it is better than how some people pronounce it.

What's in a Name

2011-07-02T06:11:00.002-04:00

We are all known by our names, and our names have significance in our family history. Our names do not usually tell our professions. But the following names I have come across reflect the professions of those people. While reading the newspaper the other day, I came across an article about pain and ways to cope. The main doctor quoted was Dr. Cope. At a weight loss clinic is a doctor named Dr. Ton. Our veterinarian was Dr. Fix. And a local high school teacher of German was none other than Ms. German. I would hate to think of the professions that would match some of the unusual names I know.

The Quiet Ones Go First

2011-07-01T18:17:00.003-04:00

Toots, my granddaughter, and I were sitting in the parking lot waiting for a friend to be released from his football practice. We saw a group of girls streaming from the building, but not a guy. I commented that I did not see him yet. Toots quickly replied that they send out the quiet ones first.

Let the Church Be the Church

2011-06-24T07:40:00.002-04:00

I saw this blog post on my facebook and wanted to share it with you. Makes you think about how far churches have come in their desire to reach the "hip" generation. Several of the comments for this post are quite informative also. http://rachelheldevans.com/blessed-are-the-uncool

Mimi Day Camp with Toots

2011-06-21T06:02:00.003-04:00

I have the joy of keeping my granddaughter, Toots, this summer while we are both on vacation. She has termed the arrangement as Mimi Day Camp. Each day we attempt to do something new, something fun. Well, as we were playing outside yesterday afternoon, Toots suggested that we play school, and she would be the teacher. Instantly, her sweet little voice boomed with control as she commanded the attention of the class and barked out the instuctions for me to follow. Do we really sound like that as teachers??? I half expected the neighbor to drop his pool tool and fall into submission. Even the cat stood at attention, not moving a muscle. She gave me a choice of chalk color, told me where to write, and what to write. She patiently waited for me to complete each task before assigning a new one. She is a natural but I'm not sure I want to be in her classroom again tomorrow, or I will be counting the days until school is out.

Toots Reads

2011-05-31T21:11:00.003-04:00

While riding in the car on Monday, Toots was reading from her many books we brought along for the journey. She did quite well, but struggled with a few words. At one point, I took the opportunity to teach Toots about a compound word made with hyphens. The word was hide-and-seek. She tried it and read it as "Heidi-and-seek." That becomes funny because her aunt is named Heidi.

Papa's "New" Truck

2011-05-29T05:33:00.004-04:00

Well, we no longer have the BMW. Hubby decided to sell it in order to buy a used extended cab truck After many months of trying to sell the Beamer, a phone call came from a lady from Colorado who was in town visiting friends. Long story short, she bought the car with cash (the best kind of sale). After much Internet search for a truck, hubby found one in town that fit his criteria, and on the same day he sold the BMW. The truck is n-i-c-e! I wouldn't say that the old truck was a dump, but I was unable to drive it for many reasons. Upon seeing the new truck, our granddaughter, Toots, hopped in and approved it!! She told her Papa that he could just come to school, get in the car line, and pick her up one day after school. Papa chuckled, but not sure he is going to do that. Then while riding in the truck last night, Toots announced that she had never, ever ridden in a truck. She said it was really nice but wanted to know, "Papa, why did you have to buy a truck that plays sports on the radio?"

Iphone Meets Lawn Mower

2011-05-23T22:02:00.003-04:00

My hubby called me the other day with news. My stomach did a flip flop even before the words came out of his mouth. He ran over his iPhone with his super duper riding lawn mower, and the Otter Box did not protect it. LOL. When he first began looking, he borrowed a friend's phone to call his phone. No ring, no sound whatsoever. In fact, as he searched the lawn for the phone, he couldn't find even a piece. It wasn't until after searching much more that he began to find pieces of the expensive machine. We've had a few laughs, but only a few. Our grandson thinks we should let the Otter Box company know that its product did not protect the phone. I think we should give a plug to the mower that definitely cuts grass as well as anything else in its way.

I Am My Own Easter Bunny

2011-04-24T06:24:00.004-04:00

My granddaughter and I colored Easter eggs on Friday. She has become quite the pro, even making fancy designs with stickers. Then I let her fill the plastic eggs with candy and money. (This is working out well for us!) When we were getting ready for our Easter get together on Saturday, Toots asked if she could hide her own eggs. So, we let her. I reminded her to hide them well, but not so hard that she wouldn't be able to find them. When I checked up on her, she had many in clear view from 50 feet away, but that didn't bother her when she it was time to hunt. I'll have to remember this strategy next year.

Don't Stop Reading!

2011-04-16T07:31:00.003-04:00

My fourth graders urge me to read to them every day. So I oblige. But the 15 minutes can be extended when the action of the book whips the students into a frenzy, causing them to beg for more from the book. I love it when the students are so into a book, so desperate to know more that they beg for more. As I finished the book Dear Mr. Henshaw the class wanted more and couldn't believe that the book was completed. They wanted Leigh's parents to remarry and "live happily ever after." Students began relating their stories about how they had not seen their dad for two weeks, two months, or since age 2. The mood in the room became very somber, and one young man burst into tears. He was missing his dad. How powerful words can be. How important books are in the lives of all of us. However, I think I will choose a more light-hearted book for the next reading.

Toots and the Mission Trip

2011-04-10T06:01:00.002-04:00

Our granddaughter, Toots, spent the night with us last night to enjoy our company and go to church this morning. She is rather excited about church today because the children's worship program is going on a mission trip in our city. They are going to one of the nursing homes to sing, present cards, and talk with the people. As she was talking about how fun the trip would be, she confused the name and referred to going to the "funeral" home. I guess that would qualify as a mission field, but a little late for the dearly departed.

Blame It on My Iphone

2011-04-05T19:42:00.002-04:00

So I guess it has been a while since I have posted. Blame it on my new Iphone. I love it!! I can check facebook in the comfort of my loveseat. I can search the web for anything without sitting at the BIG computer. I just haven't ventured into my blog from my Iphone. I know it can be done, but you know me and technology. We aren't the best of friends. In fact, I don't think we should be in the same room because we don't get along. That being said, I love my Iphone. I do not have many apps installed. I'm sure I only use a tenth of it's potential. But then we only use a tenth of our brains. Guess I should learn to develop both of them. But not right now. You see, I'm going in the living room to watch tv. That will really develop my brain while I check in with my Iphone, my friend.

Crazy Clothes Week for Money

2011-03-12T06:09:00.002-05:00

Our students were allowed to wear crazy clothes throughout the week as long as they donated money to a local cause. Monday was pajama day complete with robes and slippers. I overheard a young man say he got out of bed and came to school in his same jammies. There were some really cute pjs and slippers, although I refrained. (I was allowed to wear blue jeans all week for $5.) Tuesday was hat day. That was my least favorite because the students played with the hats all day long, on, off, on, off. They also traded hats which was not the best idea with those little critters running beneath the crown of hair. The hats provided a good lesson in etiquette when we said the pledge to the American flag--boys must remove hats. Wednesday was your favorite sports day. I'm surprised that the students paid money to wear something they are always allowed to wear every day. Guess they weren't thinking of that. Thursday was crazy shoe day, and were they ever crazy. Most wore shoes from different pairs. But one boy came in his mom's high-heeled black leather boots. What a hoot! He had even practiced at home to be sure he could wear them. Late in the day he told his teacher that no wonder she gets grouchy. It must be from the heels. LOL Finally on Friday they wore mismatched clothing. Reminded me of my junior high days when we didn't know any better. Some outfits were totally outrageous while others were kind of cute. I'm just hoping the idea does not catch-on. Next week should be a normal week, whatever normal is.

I Just Called to Say...

2011-03-07T05:22:00.002-05:00

I'm excited to receive my new iphone 4g. Do I really need it? Maybe not, but after using my husband's, I really wanted it. I've had a few dropped calls and called a few people I didn't intend to call already. But I'm sure I will be able to figure it out before long.

Spelling Request

2011-02-27T06:24:00.001-05:00

While writing, my granddaughter, Toots, asked her mom, "How do you spell bff?"

Favorite Granddaughter

2011-02-26T06:39:00.001-05:00

I told my granddaughter that she was my favorite granddaughter. She laughed and said, "Well, that's because I am your ONLY granddaughter."

Hey, Guy!

2011-02-21T05:12:00.004-05:00

My granddaughter, Toots, and I were talking about the passing of a dear friend. She began reminiscing about her great-grandpa, Papa Guy. She said some touching things then abruptly said, "But I don't understand why people stuck guy after Papa!"

Politics and Crackers

2011-02-19T19:00:00.002-05:00

I went to my first cracker barrel session today. Wasn't quite sure what to anticipate. Didn't see a barrel except around the waists of several older gentlemen. Heard a lot of banter, a lot of posturing, little truth. And I couldn't find any crackers any where.

School Play Day

2011-02-12T06:28:00.003-05:00

My granddaughter, Toots, and I spent a snow day playing school. We filled out her extra school agenda with the activities planned for the school day, complete with centers and snacks. I loved it when she played her DS at "recess". She loved it when we ate our school lunches on REAL school lunch trays. One of the centers was crafts where she tied the yarn on 4 of the quilts we are making for an orphanage in the Philippines. When she asked to watch cartoons, I reminded her that would happen when she arrived home from school. It was an excellent day of play and learning. If only real school were as much fun!

From a Burden of Material to Blessings of Quilts

2011-02-05T05:43:00.005-05:00

We have missed 4 days this week due to the ice storm. I should do my homework (like I expect of the children) but instead, I have been making quilts for an orphanage in the Philippines. It's an interesting story of how someone's burden became the blessing of so many. One of my teacher friends had a "ton" of material to get "rid of" after her grandmother passed. While talking about it to me one day, I told her that I would be able to use some at our church for costumes. Long story short, she was able to bring three loads of the material to my house. Besides using it at school for bulletin board covers, at church for the stage at Children's Worship, and for costumes, I was able to send three shipments to a mission called Gifts for the Nations which uses/sends materials all over the world. And now several ladies from our church are making quilts from the last of the material for an orphanage in the Philippines. And a local nursing home has ladies ready to tie the quilts. The blessings keep growing and blessing more.

Day By Day By Night By Night By Day By Night

2011-01-30T06:11:00.004-05:00

When I woke up this morning, it occurred to me that life is just passing by, marked by minutes, hours, nights and days, projects, assignments, holidays, work. For some reason this morning it seemed to me that there is no purpose in life. We do the same things over and over again, never completing. Is this what life is suppose to be? The sad part is that while I am doing mission work on the home front, I still see life just passing by. Is it me? Do I need an attitude adjustment? Am I still suffering the effects of the allergy? Am I like my Chia pet--great expectations but short lived?

Going Along For the Ride

2011-01-29T06:24:00.002-05:00

I've had a wild ride this week and I mean literally. I ended up in the ER with an allergic reaction to a new medication. I was experiencing vertigo along with other ear roaring. It was like being in the center of a merry-g0-round and watching the horses gallop around at a fast clip. At one point the pictures on the wall were rotating positions in a counterclockwise direction. Let's just say I won't be taking that medication again.

Baby It's More Than Cold Outside

2011-01-22T04:24:00.003-05:00

It is so cold!! So how cold is it? Zero and falling. With 4 to 5 inches of snow on the ground, there is not much hope of a warm spell. How are people up North or on the East coast able to tolerate this weather and the snow? Staying inside with the heat cranked up, watching tv, and reading facebook sound so inviting today. Nothing can entice me to leave my house today. Well, I hope nothing tries.

My Server Is Up; Their's Is Down

2011-01-18T04:06:00.005-05:00

So I wake up early this morning. Couldn't go back to sleep so I decided to get out of bed and update the computer testing results for my students. I try logging on only to find out that their server is down for service. Bummer. Now I am too awake to go back to bed. Tv, here I come.

Life Update

2011-01-16T06:58:00.002-05:00

I have no excuse for not writing except that I have been busy. Since I had some routine tests done under anesthesia, I've been sleeping 8 hours a night. While that sounds good to most of you, it is not for me. I am so groggy as if I didn't have enough sleep. And I do not have enough time in the morning to check or write much on my correspondences. Did you know that an excuse is a skin of a reason stuffed with a lie?? And furthermore, did you know I have been missing? LOL

Eating Candy Slobber

2011-01-02T06:21:00.002-05:00

Toots, our granddaughter, asked her Papa for a piece of his candy. He gave her a chocolate covered cherry. She decided to go to the bathroom to eat it since it might be messy, and she would need to wash her hands. Soon she returned and said she didn't eat the cherry, but she did eat the slobber.

Reflections of the Year Past and Resolutions of the Year Present

2011-01-01T06:45:00.005-05:00

Ok, so the title is not original, but I'm tired and can't think. It seems as if 2010 has zoomed past me and at times dragged me along with it. I had many deadlines to meet, goals to accomplish, work to be done, and on and on. I guess it would behoove me to make a list of those things accomplished for my own sake, for motivation to do even more in 2011. So here goes in no particular order:

Babysat my granddaughter on our days off from school, including most of the summer. We had lots of fun, learned a lot, and enjoyed our time.
Welcomed a new grandson into the world. He is so cute. He loves to stick out his tongue, and he is only 8 months old. Looking forward to many new adventures.
Enjoyed time with our step-grandsons (I hate that word step!) playing, eating, roasting hot dogs and marshmallows, watching football, and just spending time together.
Enjoyed time with my three children, their mates, and grandchildren, but always wishing it were more time.
With a great group of people, we sewed and shipped 1001 diapers for the Northwest Haiti Christian Mission. This is the most we have ever done. PTL
Went on a mission trip to South Dakota to help build the addition to their church. In just 3 1/2 days the project went from a hole in the ground to complete roof.
Went on a mission trip to Honduras where Lorraine and I helped with their sewing program. I took oversized and unwanted clothes and showed them how to make backpacks, bags, skirts from jeans, save items from the clothes and much more. I was so thrilled to be doing mission work in my area of skill.
Worked Vacation Bible School which is always a fun activity to be with the children.
Continued with Beginner Bible Bowl kids at our monthly competitions and the Nationals. The young ones keep you hopping and all was good!
Attended the National Missionary Convention to renew our desire to work in missions, pick up new ideas, and make new contacts. It's better than a family reunion.
Accepted the challenge and read through the Bible in one year along with 80+ others from our church.
Continued with our small group for the third year. As a group we sent Children's Spanish Bibles to a project in Honduras, sold Christmas wreaths for project money, worked at SOS in town, sponsored a child for the year, and purchased Christmas for an extended family. We love getting together and especially eating.
Finished agonizing physical therapy on my hip, and had a root canal. Yippee!
Continued with our Sign Language Interpreters at church.
Became Marty's nurse after he had shoulder surgery. I was creative on ways to make his recovery easier such as elastic bands to hold his phone and TV remote while he recovered in his recliner.
Continued to serve on the Missions Team, collect food for the CARES program, and substitute at the Senior Dinners.
Attended the graduation, honors dinner, and parties for my nephew, Kyle, who graduated second in his class. Way to go, Kyle!!
Continued another year as teacher of fourth graders. I have a great class this year:)
Celebrated 60 years of life and 38 years of marriage to my life partner, Marty. Looking forward to many more years of life and marriage.

As I have listed these accomplishments, it has been cathartic as well as encouraging to me. I see that I need to get busy on a whole new list of things to accomplish in the year 2011. God, I'm ready to serve.

Christmas Dinner Buca Style

2010-12-26T06:36:00.005-05:00

Ok, I don't think I have ever gone out to dinner on Christmas to a restaurant. That is until this Christmas. Because my daughter couldn't come here, we went there or close to it. We went to Buca de Beppa for Christmas dinner. The place is right in the middle of the big city, complete with all the lights, and hustle and bustle. Except the bustle was not so much on Christmas night. But I digress. The place is authentic Italian food in HUGE helpings. We ordered some things individual servings and others as family style. Yum! And since both my birthday and my daughter's birthday were within 7 days of our time there, we received brownie sundaes, complete with ice cream and whipped topping. But we didn't stop there. We ordered the 28 inch dessert platter with 4 towering desserts. And my oldest daughter ordered her own piece of cake. We didn't eat it all, but we tried. Those left overs will take soooooo good and remind us of the wonderful Christmas dinner we had together. The guilt I was feeling for making the people work on Christmas soon dissipated as we wound our way through all the people waiting for their turn to gorge on the delicious food.

Merry Christmas and Other Ramblings

2010-12-25T04:49:00.002-05:00

As I sit near the glowing Christmas tree, alone, contemplating this Christmas with all the gatherings and gifts, I smile. It has been a good one. It has been the best one in years. All my family was here together, at the same time. We shared a meal and the unwrapping of the gifts. My youngest grandson took more pleasure in unwrapping and stuffing it in his mouth. He cared not what was in the boxes. How soon that will change as he grows older. Among many gifts, our older grandsons were thrilled with their slankets, (thicker, longer, original version of the snuggie). Heard that the next day they wore only their undies and the slankets for the whole day. Our granddaughter, Toots, was thrilled with her Little Mommy baby who talks, walks, sits, giggles, and drives you nuts just like a toddler. Our children were thrilled with their gifts as well, making all the right ohs and ahs in all the right places. For hubby and me it was a Christmas to remember.

A Chia Cat Has Adopted Me

2010-12-19T05:18:00.004-05:00

I met the mailman as he approached our door, his arms overflowing with packages. I could almost see his red suit, but he had traded his reindeer for a 4-wheel drive to trudge through the snow. Back to the packages--On closer examination we found one box to be elegantly addressed to ME! Carefully slicing through the plastic tape, the open box revealed a Chia Pet!! I couldn't believe my eyes! I felt as if I were living the movie where the boy gets his gun. The card with it did not reveal the sender, only stating, "Heard you have been good." So to whomever is out there that has recognized my goodness and rewarded said goodness with the ultimate gift, I THANK YOU!

My Birthday Reflections

2010-12-18T05:10:00.005-05:00

I have not been looking forward to this birthday because the big round number is, well, big. None of the other mile-stone birthdays have bothered me. I sailed right through them all. But now at 60, I feel old. Even my granddaughter said that was really old. So to change these negative feelings, I need to reflect on the positives about being 60. If I forget any, you may add them on in the comments.

Senior discount in most restaurants and stores
I'm older, I have more insurance (I love that line.)
Forgetfulness is expected and forgiven
I have my own teeth
My hair is my natural color (thanks, Dad) with gray highlights
I have all my own body parts that are essential (don't stress on this one)
Respect for elders
A head full of stories of "When I was a kid..."
Many years racked up at work
Nearing retirement when I get to choose what to do
Don't have to ask permission to go to the bathroom
Been there, done that, no thank you.
A seat while others stand
Selective deafness
Ability to say NO, I'm not doing that...
Elastic waistband pants
Many good friends in the same age bracket
Family
The same husband for 38 years
New phase in life where I can serve God in more ways

So as I have counted my blessings, I realize that reaching 60 is a big deal, and it really does mean I am old.

Snow Day: What Should I do?

2010-12-16T06:18:00.003-05:00

I have a bonus day today--no school due to the snow and ice. I brought home lots of school work that I can do today, on my own computer, with the larger monitor. I should be able to accomplish a lot. But I have also volunteered to keep my granddaughter so that her parents can work. If Toots comes, we will need to do some fun things like baking several kinds of cookies, maybe make a cheese ball with crackers, make a pot of soup, make Christmas ornaments, read, do the Wii games, watch cartoons, and just enjoy one another's company. I can always do the school work later. Too bad she would tell or we could wrap Christmas presents.

Shop Till You Freeze

2010-12-14T05:33:00.003-05:00

I did some Christmas shopping in the sub-zero wind chills last night. I thought my legs were going to freeze and shatter. I didn't want to be out in the cold, but time is running out for me to shop. So I braved the snow-spotted parking lots, the long walk to the store, and shopped. I was successful and realize it was worth it all. Well, if the recipients like their gifts, then I was successful. Perhaps I'll warm up in a couple of months.

Entering the World of Instant Communication in Solitude

2010-12-12T05:40:00.002-05:00

Well, hubby has entered a new world, the world of IPhone 4. He, the one who didn't have text. He, the one who does not do facebook much. He, the one who ignores his calls. He has the smart phone. I'm glad for him because now I can text my messages to him since he doesn't always take his calls. I'll just have to figure a way to be sure he checks his messages. I know that now I will be competing with the phone. He will be engrossed in checking the latest football, basketball, etc. scores. I will have to get his attention by saying his name aloud, several times, to be sure he is ready to hear me. Like I said, I will have to get his attention by saying his name aloud, several times, to be sure he is ready to hear me.

Christmas Wish List

2010-12-11T04:53:00.003-05:00

So, what do you really want for Christmas? While pondering that question, I shall ramble a bit about the gift list. Product companies are counting on their advertisements to lure customers into buying their products. I absolutely love the IPAD commercial and am tempted. Then I pause and realize it is ELECTRONIC, which would be a waste on me. I am paralyzed to explore and use the techno items. I'm always afraid I will hit a wrong button or erase something. Proof in point, look at the bleakness of my blog!! I am afraid to update it for fear of something going wrong. Another gift is the I-phone that does everything. I'm still fumbling and figuring out the one I have had for two years. Do I need internet on my phone? Do I want internet on my phone? No, I just want to have a normal, regular conversation with my friends and family. I often check my phone to see if I had silenced it or if the power had run out. Alas, a new-fangled phone will not produce more conversations. So, my Christmas wish list remains simple and inexpensive, and gifts you can grab at the last minute at the local pharmacy store. I'm still waiting on my Chia pet.

Blanket of White, A Heaven of Diamonds Shine Down Through the Night

2010-12-04T06:25:00.003-05:00

With our first blanket of snow covering the ground, I am inspired to think of songs or bits of them. So sing along with Leah...

I'm dreaming of a white Christmas, just like the ones I use to know.
Oh the weather outside is frightful, but the fire is so delightful, so if you've no place to go, let it snow, let it snow, let it snow.
Dashing through the snow...
Frosty the Snowman, what a jolly happy soul...
Walking in a winter wonderland...
I'll be home for Christmas, you can count on me. We'll have snow...
Over the river and through the woods...
Rudolph, the Red-Nosed Reindeer
Sleigh Ride...The snow is falling and friends are calling...
I'll have a blue Christmas without you...

Okay, my mind is blank. Your turn. If you think of more, add them in the comments.

Cover That Sneeze, Please!

2010-12-01T06:02:00.003-05:00

I have IT, between my sneezing and coughing, blowing my nose, feeling miserable--I'm so sick I am not going to school. That is big. I usually tough it out and go. Glad I am contagious and have to stay home. I don't have a couch or bed in my room from which I could teach. I got this from several in my class. We try to do the Count Dracula covering of the sneeze, but it doesn't always happen. I know I will get better, some day in the future. My voice is lower every day. I've matched it to notes on the piano. Today I am two octaves below middle C. I just realized that there is only one more octave and two other notes to the end of the piano! Surely my voice would never go that low.

The Original Fruitcake, Did It Taste Better?

2010-11-28T05:04:00.004-05:00

My aunt called and asked for my grandmother's fruitcake recipe. After digging through several recipe boxes, I found three of my grandmother Rachel's, and one from a magazine. I remember helping make a table full of fruitcakes for Christmas. We spent all day cutting the 16 cups of fruit and 7 cups of nuts that when into the cakes. Then we poured the heavy batter into tin cans, such as green bean or soup cans, and even coffee cans. Those with a wider diameter had toilet paper rolls placed in the center. The recipe said to bake them 3 hours and 45 minutes. Wow! That's was like baking a large turkey. None of the recipes gave a yield of cakes. I can't remember who my family gave the fruitcakes to, but they were always loved and devoured. Perhaps we have changed in our tastes or maybe good desserts are so available to us that fruitcakes are not appealing. Or maybe the ones mass produced are not really as good. I know that I will NOT be making any from scratch so that I can compare. I wonder if any of grandmother's fruitcake recipients still have a cake or two?

Black Friday Yields Bounty of Flannel

2010-11-27T05:49:00.003-05:00

We did it! My husband and I stood in line, in the freezing cold, to buy flannel material for the construction of Diapers for Haiti for 2011. We found the flannel aisle first and quickly began snatching the thickest bolts off the racks. When hubby pulled our number for the cutting line, we were the second one in order. We piled two shopping carts completely full and headed to the cutting table. Several of the bolts were full and did not have to be measured which saved us time. Bolt by bolt the lady unrolled and measured, handed the piles to us to fold and put back in the carts. This process continued till every piece was accounted for and recorded. There were many customers with smiles on their faces and full carts also, but there were others who had only a few things to cut and were indeed miffed at the long wait. If I could have told them the reason for our large load, perhaps they would have understood. Several people asked us what we were going to do with the material so we were able to share our ministry. At the end of 90 minutes, we pushed our carts out of the store, having saved $1,886, and racking up 425 yards!!

Happy Thanksgiving and Bring on the Turkey Math

2010-11-25T06:50:00.004-05:00

I am cooking a big turkey today for our entire family gathering. That I have done before. But this time I am cooking it in an electric roaster. I googled how to do it and received numerous hits with instructions with lots of variations. The roaster temperature given ranges from 325 to 375 degrees. Okay, so guess I'll go with 350. The time for cooking a 12-14 pound turkey was 3 to 3 3/4 hours, while the time for a 14-16 pound turkey was 3 3/4 to 4 1/2 hours. So it looks like I should cook the 14 pounder for 3 3/4 hours. The turkey needs to be finished at 12, so I need to back up the time to cook it till 8:15. But since I need to get it out of the fridge, wash it, remove the neck and bag of innards, I need to back up the time a little more. Phew! I hope when we sit down to enjoy this bird that my math was correct.

Time for Turkey Memories

2010-11-23T04:44:00.003-05:00

I have so many memories of Thanksgiving Day, especially those when I still lived with my parents. My brother, Joe, and I were active in cooking the huge meal. It started early in the week with taking our mother to the different stores to buy everything she needed to make the perfect meal. I hated going in the poultry store where Mom bought the freshest turkey she could buy. (If we got it any fresher, it would have been running around.) The store reeked of a strong odor that attached itself to our clothing and lingered in our nostrils. Even the paper bag had the peculiar smell forever. (As I think about it, I can smell it now. Yuk.) Then the night before Thanksgiving Day, we prepared the dressing, made the noodles, finished the pies, ground the cranberries for the cranberry salad, and cleaned up the kitchen. On T-day, we got up very early to begin the actual cooking. Dad would build a fire in the stove in the basement to keep us warm. And we always had to open the doors to cool off! With the living room television tuned in to the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade, the three of us began the masterful task of creating the best Thanksgiving meal ever made. And we did. I am so grateful for those times together as family and for learning how to cook the big meal. After Mom passed away, Joe and I continued the tradition in my home or his, making many more memories. My brother has passed on too. I have many fond memories and no regrets, but do so miss them both.

Duct Tape and Faces Do Not Make Good Combinations

2010-11-16T05:59:00.003-05:00

Our preacher had a very unusual sermon this past Sunday. We were featuring 30 of the ministries people can be involved with in our church. For example, I manned the booth for Diapers for Haiti, Gifts for the Nations, and CARES. We need help sewing, clipping threads, turning, and stacking the diapers that are sent to a birthing center in Haiti. Well, the minister had a lady from the congregation tape his mouth shut with duct tape to illustrate, well, I'm not sure what it meant. Anyway, he had balloons with the names of each of the ministries written on them. He ask the lady to juggle two, then three, then more. He eventually had the congregation try to keep the balloons going. His point was to show that the ministries are in need of people. It was a great sermon, very effective. Then he had a man rip off the tape! The preacher was stunned, speechless again. The tape ripped off part of his skin and sideburns. OUCH!

Uninvited Guests Overstay Welcome

2010-11-14T06:03:00.003-05:00

We have a problem in our house. We have guests that have come uninvited and are not leaving soon. They have not manners. I have found them going through many of our things. How dare they check out our towels? When I tried to persuade one to leave my kitchen, he took offense at my words and tried to push me down. But the absolute intrusion was the one near my living room ceiling checking to see if I had swept away those spider webs. How dare she be so bold!

Your Shirt Talks

2010-11-13T05:19:00.002-05:00

I was daring yesterday. I was bold. I could have been reprimanded. But I did it any way. I wore a shirt with a Christian message on it to school. The shirt even said the name of a very important person. I figured that since the students were wearing shirts covered in skulls, my shirt would be acceptable. And it was.

Bring On the Christmas Music, Just Hold the Twelve Days

2010-11-12T05:33:00.003-05:00

While driving to an appointment, I decided to switch from the Christian radio station to one that is playing Christmas music 24 hours daily. I almost turned the dial back when I heard the first one--I Want a Hippopotamus for Christmas. I wasn't anticipating such frivolity in the music, but, it fits the genre. And before my short trip ended, I heard the ever-present, always annoying Twelve Days of Christmas. It was a rather ornate version with many liberties taken to change the style. I wondered how many different artists have recorded the song and in how many different styles of music. Then I was horror-struck with the fear that maybe the station would play all of them back to back to back. Oh, Christmas Hurry Fast.

Sing, Any Song, All the Songs, All Day Long

2010-11-09T05:01:00.005-05:00

I love songs. They fill my head and pour out of my mouth. I can think of a song for almost any subject. (And now that I said that, I may have difficulty coming up with the songs as needed.) When giving spelling words, I have to resist the temptation to burst out in song with every other word. I use to do that until I graded the tests with words that were parts of songs, but not on the spelling list. Now I have to resort to singing in my head during the tests. With Christmas songs Christmas songs are being played quite early this year, I will have so many more songs from which to choose. I love them, but I am so afraid someone will add more to the Twelve Days of Christmas. Or should it be called the Twelve Weeks of Christmas?

Fall Back an Hour Means Go to Bed an Hour Earlier

2010-11-07T06:17:00.003-05:00

Ok, I know we are suppose to fall back an hour. But how do you train your body to fall back one hour? My body has this internal clock that keeps very good time. My body did not fall back one hour. My body got up very early today, because my body didn't change time. Where is that switch? How do I turn it back? If I don't find it soon, my body will be going to bed at 8:00 and arising at 3:00.

ASTYM Again!

2010-10-31T06:27:00.004-04:00

I went for my third ASTYM, augmented soft tissue manipulation, on my hip and thigh Saturday morning. And it hurt again, enough to cry. I didn't cry. I toughed it out. I'm beginning to realize that when the therapist knows where it hurts the most, she targets that area more. So this last time, I didn't let her know. Didn't work. She found the gritty areas with the plastic device and worked it out anyway. Then she found the horrendous spot on the piriformis muscle. I literally thought I would come off the table and blast through the ceiling. I'm thankful I don't swear or the whole business would have gotten an earful. Once she found it, she continued to inflict pain, real pain, intense pain. I began to worry that it would cause me more pain with my sciatica in the coming days. When I could stand it no more, she was done. After she cleaned off the lotions, she applied tape to support the muscle until I return in three days for more torture. But it is working!! I am able to climb the stairs, get up from a chair, and walk with less pain. I am so hopeful that this procedure works and rids me of the pain I have endured for two years.

The Highly Anticipated/Dreaded Fall Party

2010-10-30T05:47:00.003-04:00

As I arrived at school yesterday, I noticed that the children were a little more alive/out of control. I thought it was because of the Fall Party scheduled for later in the day. As we began class, I asked who had been trick or treating so far? About half of the class raised their hands. Then I asked who had eaten candy? About five admitted to eating candy for breakfast. No wonder they were so hyped. The day zoomed by quickly and their activities and volume escalated to a feverish pitch. At the time I could stand it no more, the party was ready to begin with parents AND siblings. At least half of the children brought something to share, so their plates were overflowing with iced cookies, candy, gum, and SUGAR. There were colored sprinkles all over the new carpet along with green punch spilled. I had to resort to blowing the whistle, literally, when it was time to clean up so that they could hear me over the noise. After the third blow they calmed to a low roar and began stuffing leftover candy, cookies and toys in their bags and prepared to go home. I knew that their parents would be so proud of them and their behavior as they arrived home for the evening. And I did not contribute one bite of sugar.

How Much Pain Can I Endure?

2010-10-28T04:59:00.003-04:00

Well, I went to be tortured again last night at physical therapy with the ASTYM method. Think of trying to remove stubborn wallpaper or to remove old paint and you will have an idea of what ASTYM is to the body. A different physical therapist worked on me. She was petite, so I'm thinking this won't be so bad. But let me tell you that woman knows how to use that plastic scraper to inflict pain! Since she had not scraped me before, I think she tried extra hard to dig deep to see if she could find the gritty stuff. After several swipes, she proclaimed that I was not as gritty as she thought I would be. That didn't stop her though. She continued to swipe that blade in all directions. If I let her know where something was a little more tender, she would swipe it more often and HARDER. I decided then not to tell her, but she found them anyway when I couldn't contain the pain. Finally, the session was over. I was relieved, until I realized I have to do it all over again on Saturday. Thankfully, she has the day off!!

Spell Check Is Like Forgiveness

2010-10-24T06:00:00.003-04:00

I awoke early, on my own, like usual this morning. But something was not quite right. I struggled to determine what day was ahead of me. Thinking it was Tuesday, I dutifully turned off the alarm so that my husband could sleep longer. While turning out the lights in the bathroom, I somehow bumped my hand on the trinket box full of miniatures, knocking it to the floor. Hoping that didn't awaken my granddaughter, I bent to pick up the scattered array and hurt my back. And I was only two minutes into my day. I crept across the creaky floor so that my granddaughter, Toots, would not hear me. She is a joy to be with, but not at 5:30 a.m. when I'm having a bad start to my day. I reached the computer room successfully, turned on the coffee, and clicked on the computer to update myself on Facebook. I wasn't very far down the list of posts when I heard the alarm beeping. How could that be?? I rushed to the bedroom to find my husband turning it off. I lamented that I had turned it off already and didn't understand why it was blaring. He calmly explained that it was never set because today is Sunday. I didn't know if that was good news or bad news with the way my day was progressing in the first 15 minutes. I returned to the computer to begin reading and commenting only to find that my brain and my fingers did not want to work together to type the messages. I reread what I had written and wanted to scold my fingers for being so naughty. How could they betray me in such a way when I have relied on them to be faithful servants? Thankfully, before I posted, I used spell check to correct my numerous errors. Spell check was like asking God to forgive me, His servant, for my many mistakes, but it only worked when I asked.

Sewing Diapers for Haiti

2010-10-19T04:56:00.003-04:00

We are sewing diapers this week for a mission in Haiti. It's not hard. We show up and sew, cut, clip threads, turn and so on. During our work last night we had time to fellowship, share stories, and laugh. The two and one half hours flew by. Fuzz up our noses and on our clothes was a great reminder that we accomplished much in just one evening. By Thursday evening our labors will have produced enough diapers to bless many mothers and babies. Thank you, God, for this mission project and for the faithful servants who do Your work.

And the Pain Continues

2010-10-16T06:29:00.002-04:00

So, if you read my previous post, you can understand when I say I have pain. Yes, real pain. And it was inflicted by this tiny woman with great enthusiasm. Unfortunately, I have to return today to endure the same treatment. So, I'm thinking that it hurt the first time to have the underlying tissues scraped with a plastic instrument to break up adhesions. Well, today I'm entering the building with a very sore thigh to have it scraped again. I'm dreading the thought of the pain level. The therapist told me that athletes have this procedure done so they can get back to playing. Today I'm telling her that I have no sport to return to, and I don't get the big bucks to endure the pain!! She'll hurt me anyway.

Torture and Pain, and I had to Pay For It

2010-10-14T04:25:00.002-04:00

OUCH! That states the mild reaction to the pain I felt during my first physical therapy for ASTYM treatment. ASTYM stands for "a serious torture of your muscles". Really, though, the therapist used hard, plastic scrappers to scrap my hip and thigh, deep down into the muscle. She was breaking up adhesions and reinjuring the tissue. The goal is to make it heal correctly. OUCH! As she was scrapping, she offered me a wash cloth to bite on for the pain. I wanted a stick and the bottle of whiskey! She said many of her patients cannot stand the pain, and she marveled that I took it so calmly, without washcloth, stick, or whiskey. I'm sure feeling it this morning, though. Great news!! I get to return for the same torture in just two days. That is if I am able to walk.

Covered Bridge Festival, the Ultimate Yard Sale

2010-10-11T05:54:00.003-04:00

Have you ever heard of the Covered Bridge Festival? Millions of people trek to Park County, Indiana, to attend the event. It is scattered throughout several little villages, all complete with covered bridges. On the off season, you would not venture into most of the places or even see them as you sped by. But during the festival, people flock from many states away to attend the fall event. Food, junk, junk food, antiques, crafts, junk, knick-knacks, junk, "I can't believe they are selling THAT", spices, food, very old antiques, glass dishes, ice cream, jewelry, shoes, clothing, Christmas decorations, junk, food, junk food, sweatshirts, t-shirts, recycled items, repurposed items, food, junk, socks, purses, signs, equipment, and food are all for sale. On a good day, you can fill you car with your purchases. On a lucky day, you can come home empty-handed. It all depends on how you look at it. I'm going today to see people, eat foods I don't normally eat, and look for that rare item, probably something repurposed that becomes my trophy.

Update on the Bible Bowl Yard Sale

2010-10-10T04:50:00.003-04:00

Well, the sale was great. At least for me. I was able to buy about 30 books for my school library at a low price. My students will be thrilled with the new books. I also found books for my granddaughter, and she has already enjoyed them the first time through. I also found two plastic chests with three drawers each. Once they are cleaned up, they will be a great addition at school for additional storage. I found cookie cutters, Christmas decorations, plastic containers with paper clips and push pins, a staple gun that works, a small basket for cards, and other containers. Once I clean them, I will be so thrilled to have them at school. BUT, my job at the sale was to help people find and buy items. I'm good at that. And I helped sell many items, especially the wooden entrance door with leaded glass. I knew it was perfect for my neighbors so I called them to come look. The husband was not sure until I told him it would look perfect in their gazebo. He bought it.

I Hate Yard Sales! Well, Most of the Time

2010-10-09T06:03:00.002-04:00

I mean, I hate doing a yard sale. I'd rather give the stuff away. But I am working one of those sales today. Our Bible Bowl teams are hosting a yard sale to earn money for our season. It's a ton of work, but worth it for us and all those people who were able to unload their stuff on us. All the shoes that are wearable will be pulled aside to be sent to Honduras, to a mission we support. Sometimes other items are pulled out to be distributed to other groups in more need than just our fund raiser. So all in all, every minute is worthy of our time and your.

It's in the Jean Bags

2010-10-07T19:27:00.004-04:00

The new desks at school are not quite big enough for all the books and library books of my students. Too often, books were piled on the desks or on the floor. I decided to try something to hold their books. I took old jeans, cut off the legs, and sewed in a bottom. Then using zip ties, I was able to attach the bags to the sides of the desks. It took me about a week sew all of them, but it was worth it. The kids love their jean bags. One boy had all of his desk in the bag. I had to urge him to return some of the books to his desk.

How Many Bibles Do You Have?

2010-10-06T04:41:00.001-04:00

That is a good question and probably one we don't consider. We are so blessed with the Bibles we have, all the versions, various sizes, as well as study guides. I know of a place where they are desperate for the Bible, to hold, to read, to study, to share. Our small group has taken on the challenge to buy and send Bibles to that place--Honduras. The challenge is not the money required to purchase the books, but the way to get them to Honduras inexpensively and quickly. Our small group has purchased a dozen study Bibles and have a way to send them. We hope to be able to purchase and send many more. Soon!! The B-I-B-L-E, yes, that's the book for me, I stand alone on the Word of God, the B-I-B-L-E!

A Rainy Walk to Defeat ALS

2010-10-05T05:49:00.002-04:00

My sister-in-law, Sherri, and I walked in the Walk to Defeat ALS this past Saturday. It was a miserable day with pouring rain the entire time. I only saw two people, presumably with ALS, in wheelchairs, when we usually see 15 or more. They cannot afford to get sick. After Sherri and I registered, I told her that we didn't really have to walk the walk, we could walk back to the car and say we did. I asked her what Joe would say. She quickly replied, "He would say that since you are already here, you might as well walk." So we did. I'm not sure of the length of the walk, but I am sure that it rained the all way with pools of water in many places. My jeans were wet from the knees down as well as my shoes and socks. But we did it. Joe would have been proud of us. Let's pray that the money raised will help discover a cure for ALS, the always fatal disease.

Happy Birthday, Marty

2010-09-26T06:19:00.003-04:00

Today is my husband's birthday! Yea! We are having a party for him today, as we did for him last night. (Sounds like he is a kid again.) You see, our children are busy and are not able to get together all at the same time. It's great to see them, but doubling the work is a little overkill. I simplified one part by not assembling the Oreo Ice Cream Cake. Instead of making it and freezing the dessert, I set out the ingredients, and let each one dip his or her own. Less work and better results!! The kids and I also enjoyed roasted marshmallows over the fire pit. We used those gigantic ones, the ones that are 4x the size of normal ones. I had chocolate squares that we broke apart and pushed inside the gooey mess. Yum! Come to think of it, I will enjoy the party all over again today!! Thanks, hubby, for your birthday.

Toots's First Field Trip

2010-09-25T04:41:00.003-04:00

My granddaughter, Toots, who is in kindergarten, was so excited after school yesterday. She got to go on a FIELD TRIP!! All of the kindergartners in the corporation met at one school to get their eyes tested. She was excited to see some of her friends that go to different schools and some of the teachers from my school. If she got this excited about the FIELD TRIP, just wait till they actually go somewhere.

Go Fish! Your Memory

2010-09-19T05:35:00.003-04:00

When we ate last at Wendys, my granddaughter, Toots, received a Where's Waldo Memory Game. We have had hours of enjoyment playing the original intent of the game as well as the variations created by Toots. Did you know you can play Go Fish with those cards? I didn't either, but we played anyway, even if it is not right. The "playing" was the goal.

The Passing of an Old Friend

2010-09-14T05:09:00.004-04:00

A dear friend of mine is ill and near to expiring. She has been with me through the rough times. She has dealt with my dirt, faithfully. I knew she was having problems. I tried to console her, but she wept, wept all over the floor. I bandaged her numerous times, but with limited success. She cries from both sides now. Perhaps I will cry when she leaves my laundry room soon. She has been my faithful friend. She will not be lonely though, because we are sending her mate to be with her. Hope she doesn't catch a glimpse of my new friends, the ones I'm buying their friendship with real money. In time, they, too, will become my faithful friends. (Thanks to Laurie for the post idea, and thanks to my washer. May you rest in peace.)

Will They Light Up the Ground?

2010-09-12T05:22:00.005-04:00

Toots, my granddaughter, is selling items for her school's fundraiser. One of the items is flower bulbs. Of course you don't say flower bulbs, just bulbs. When her mommy read off bulbs, Toots was excited. She asked if they really grew lights?!?! Too cute and just like Amelia Bedelia, the maid who takes everything literally. Toots will really enjoy that series of books. (Maybe that's how people get those lights along their sidewalks.)

Busy, Busy, Tiring, Successful Week

2010-09-11T04:47:00.006-04:00

You would think that week four of school would be easy, but it was not. Seems like we do not have a spare moment. I have even been teaching during our bathroom wait. (For those who don't know, we have one set of bathrooms for almost 300 kids. So we spend a lot of time standing in line, waiting our turn.) Some of the students are ready to be in school and ready to learn. While others will take a little while to join us. (Hope it is soon!)

I had one of my students invite me to church with him this week. That was rather special. He knows that I am a Christian, and he felt comfortable enough to invite me. I already had something at my church, but I told him that I would go with him sometime. A classmate overheard our conversation and asked what church and where. He wants to come. So the first boy wrote out the information for him. The sun is rising.

Great Is Thy Faithfulness

2010-09-06T06:02:00.002-04:00

We sang this great hymn at church yesterday. One of my favorites, especially to sign for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing service. As I looked out on the crowd, I saw that the hymn was a favorite of many others. I enjoy the new songs/praise hymns, but they can't touch this hymn. Maybe it is because some of us have so many memories attached to the song, so many examples of God's great faithfulness through it all. Thanks, Ryan for including this powerful hymn.

Mrs. S, This Is Your Child's Teacher

2010-09-04T05:49:00.004-04:00

Well, Toots, my granddaughter, made it 11 days in kindergarten before a call from her teacher. Seems Toots's scissors found their way into another girl's hair. And when the teacher explains the assignment, someone bosses the children around to tell them how to do the work. Hmmmm. Who could that someone be? Teacher asked what works for punishment. Parents answered, "If you find something, let us know." That would be funny, but it is the truth. Toots has so much to learn about life and how to live it harmoniously.

Ask and You Shall Receive

2010-08-30T05:34:00.004-04:00

Our small group from church is awesome. I requested money to buy children's Bibles in Spanish for Honduras, and each member reached deep in his/her pocket and pulled out lots of cash. We will be ordering the Bibles online, and soon, those books will be in the hands of the little ones who never had a Bible before.

Future Football Pros

2010-08-29T06:26:00.002-04:00

Yesterday Hubby and I had the opportunity to go watch a football game. It was exciting with many great tackles and scores by both teams. The players looked so macho in their uniforms, especially those shoulder pads. The players ranged in age from 7-9 years old. Yes, we went to watch our grandson, D, play. He played guard or nose tackle, and he did his job very well. He stayed with his "man" until the whistle signaled the play over. The best part was how D hustled back to the line every time. He truly enjoyed every aspect of the game, but especially the hot dog and snow cone he won for his performance.

The Big Yellow Bus Adventure

2010-08-28T05:46:00.002-04:00

My granddaughter, Toots, rode home on the big yellow school bus for the first time this week. Her bus driver is my sister-in-law, and she told me that Toots boarded the bus and sat in the seat behind the driver. She sat quietly and didn't move her head from side to side. I asked if she talked a lot, but no, she didn't. Sis said it could be because there were kids fighting on the bus. One little girl was hitting another over the head with a lunch box. When we met up with Toots and her mom for dinner, the first words out of Toots's mouth were, "I want to take my lunch to school in a lunch box."

State Fair Record Attender

2010-08-22T06:10:00.005-04:00

I was being so smug last week when I told of my record attendance to the state fair over all these years. Well, I am ashamed of my bragging. There is a woman, Liz, who has not only attended every state fair since 1948, but has attended everyday of the fair since then!!! She is 83 and just loves the fair. She arrives in the morning, leaves in mid-afternoon to go to her job as a janitor, then returns to the fair till midnight. What a woman!!

Let Papa Tell You

2010-08-21T05:25:00.002-04:00

My granddaughter, Toots, is finally in kindergarten! She promised that the day she started K, she would be good for the rest of her life. LOL My husband and I met up with her for dinner the other night. I was a little late so hubby got to hear her news first. When I arrived and asked about kindergarten, she said, "I've already told Papa, so let's have him tell you everything. I'll fill in what he misses."

Not Another Gift To Open?

2010-08-20T05:15:00.002-04:00

I am so tired, I can hardly type. All week I have been unpacking boxes at school and putting the stuff away along with teaching my students. With the remodeling, our school is now twice as large, and just getting any where is a hike. My old bones and arthritic joints are feeling it on those stairs both up and down ten times a day. But who's counting! I've made it to Friday and I have 5 boxes left to open. Maybe I can delay and pretend it is Christmas. I haven't missed what is in them yet. By then I will really be surprised!!

School Has Begun

2010-08-18T04:21:00.002-04:00

Well, it is finally here. I got to meet my 25 students for the first time. There are several live-wires, a couple of know-it-alls, three very shy ones who barely spoke, but all smiling faces. One boy kept asking for homework all day while another one spent his time going upstairs to the bathroom. (He gets two trips today. Use them wisely.) It's going to be an interesting year. Already they think I am 32, but as a friend reminded me, to them, 32 is ancient. Thanks, friend. When I reveal my real age, they will think I am dead! LOL

Dressed Down But Up for the Wedding

2010-08-15T06:34:00.003-04:00

Yesterday was the wedding of two dear friends of ours. They were introduced to and got to know one another on mission trips from our church. I'm not sure when they fell in love, but if you can fall in love with someone on a mission trip, it must be love. For the wedding, my husband had this great idea. He suggested to all who have been on a mission trip with Justin and Barb over the past few years should wear some article of clothing from one of the trips. Wow! It was great. We saw two different kinds of shirts from the Indian reservation this summer, shirts from the Mexican trip, ladies hats from Barbados, sandals from Mexico and Barbados, shirt from Haiti diaper mission, sombrero, tool belt, sewing supplies, and shirts, shorts, and headbands from working in the heat in Barbados. The bride and groom loved it!! Both said they wish they had thought of it and worn something similar as their wedding attire. Thanks hubby for the close connection we felt to them through our outfits. May God allow us to go on many more trips with them.

How Do You Like Me Now?

2010-08-14T06:59:00.003-04:00

Two years ago, our president and his wife could do no wrong. He walked on water. He changed water to wine. He fed the multitudes. She was right no matter what she wore. No matter how bare her arms. Whatever she supported, we were urgently encouraged to follow. Fast forward two years, and he is not doing so well. His ratings have dropped. Criticism has followed him everywhere. And now...he has agreed with the placement of the mosque near 911. I'm not sure that was a wise decision for a president who is struggling with his ratings and who has been accused of following that religion. She vacationed in Spain with a full entourage. Not the USA. Not even North America. And now the family will vacation on the Gulf Shores. Briefly. Any predictions on how far they will fall?

May I Be Excused?

2010-08-13T06:50:00.004-04:00

I heard that the bathrooms are not completed in my school. I wonder if they will be green like those at a school in Honduras. I wonder if they will be large enough like the other one in Honduras. As it stands, both Honduran bathrooms are better than what we have. LOL

Prayers for the School

2010-08-12T04:36:00.003-04:00

I had the opportunity to attend a prayer meeting for our Christian school last night. There must have been 25 or 30 people who attended. Divided into 2 groups, we went into each classroom and prayed specifically for the teachers, children, and the success of all. I was honored to be able to so. Wish we could do the same for our public schools, especially mine.

Need Milk For Those Cookies?

2010-08-10T05:56:00.004-04:00

Toots and I make cookies the other afternoon. They are/were delicious! She ate a ton of them as did Mimi and Papa. Finally I had to cut her off. She seemed okay with that and went on with the visit of her imaginary friend. A while later she asked if she could give a cookie to her imaginary friend. "NO!" She grinned.

Too Hot To Toast Marshmallows

2010-08-09T06:06:00.003-04:00

Toots and I were planning to build a fire in the fire pit and roast a few marshmallows last evening, but the outdoor temp was still searing at 88. I told her we would have to wait until it cooled off. She watched the gage, but it never dropped lower than 84. So I decided to use the gas stove top to toast the marshmallows, and it worked beautifully. Toots was impressed and we didn't sweat a drop. Actually, we could have melted the marshmallows by just holding them outside under the sun. Next time.

The State Fair Was Awesome!!

2010-08-07T06:35:00.003-04:00

Hubby, Toots, and I attended the fair yesterday, and I will share. On the way we passed a cemetery that was advertising the old-fashioned Burma Shave way to buy one plot, get the second one free. Now we are all about saving money, but we were in a hurry to the fair so we didn't stop on this trip. Toots has been to the fair at least 5 years, and with her good memory, she knew what she wanted to do. During the 4 hours we walked 5 miles and sweat a lot. She didn't get to ride the elephants because I was not going to be the indulgent grandparent who allowed her grandchild to ride a seemingly calm elephant who might go berserk and cause damage. More importantly, the elephant stunk and we had to ride home in the car together. LOL Toots pet every animal that she was allowed to get close too, even the massive oxen. She stood under mist and fountains, put her hands in all the running water, and visited several bathrooms just because she could. (I took a picture of her balloon floating high above the bathroom stall.) We ate sensibly, but could have devoured the following, if we had the guts to try:

deep fried butter
deep fried Twinkie
deep fried Pepsi (don't know how they do this one)
pig in a pancake
chocolate covered bacon
ice cream sundae with chocolate fudge and bacon bits on top
chocolate covered popcorn balls
garbage burger (pulled pork and more)
deep fried dill pickles
deep fried vegetables (they are yuckyyyyy!)

I need to stop as I'm getting a little nauseous this early in the morning. But you need to go to the fair and enjoy every little part of it! I'm hoping to go back again this year.

HEY, PAPA!!

2010-08-06T05:42:00.004-04:00

Toots, Papa, and I went shopping yesterday for back-to-school clothes for me. After a successful trip, we were headed home. Toots was talking a mile a minute, as usual. Papa was listening to a sports radio talk show, as usual. I'm tuned in to both of them. Toots asked her Papa a question which he didn't hear, as usual. Frustrated, she declared, "Why is Papa so sporty, sporty, sporty?" I thought I would die laughing. I'll have to try that one the next time Papa doesn't hear me.

How Hot Is Too Hot?

2010-08-05T05:59:00.002-04:00

At 4:00 a.m. yesterday it was already 80 degrees with a promise of the high 90s. So for a change of pace, Toots, Papa, and I decided we would go to the movies instead of swimming. While Papa was driving us, the temperature gage registered 100 degrees!! With the air-conditioning in the car, it wasn't bad until we stepped out onto the black asphalt! I felt like a marshmallow in the middle of a campfire! The movie was good but the air was not that cool. On our way home, the temp reached 103 degrees!!! Now that is too hot!

School, The Ultimate Mission Trip

2010-08-04T04:48:00.004-04:00

I'm sitting here with mixed emotions--school is about ready to begin for another year. I have had an awesome summer with the following:

mission trip to South Dakota to help build an addition to the church on an Indian reservation
National Beginner Bible Bowl tournament in Cincy with our 4 awesome players
a week of Vacation Bible School
mission trip to Honduras to teach sewing to the ladies
sewing 254 diapers for the mission in Haiti with a large team of workers
babysitting my granddaughter

I need to change my thinking and my focus about school. Instead of dreading it, I need to consider it another mission trip, another opportunity to witness and nurture the children and staff. That's what I will do:) No funds are needed, just prayer that I am the best ambassador I can be to all who see.

Now What Should I Do?

2010-08-02T06:19:00.003-04:00

I have nothing planned from now until the beginning of school. I don't do well without plans. There is always work to do such as cleaning house, pulling weeds, etc. But I don't want to do that. I also have homework to do, but I don't want to do that either. So, I need to be creative and come up with something useful and fun to do so I don't waste away. I need to make housework and homework fit into my useful and fun category. LOL

My Homework Is NOT Done!

2010-08-01T05:04:00.002-04:00

This summer I had planned to get a lot of things organized for school and do some planning. Well, school starts in 15 days, and I have little done. I have this sickening feeling in my stomach that the teacher is going to be mad at me and that I will receive a bad grade. And the bad thing is, I'M THAT TEACHER. Maybe I will get some of it done this week. Maybe.

Potential Hip and Knee Replacements

2010-07-30T05:58:00.003-04:00

As I grow older, many things on the body begin to wear out. I'm having some difficulties with one hip and both knees. While on a mission trip to South Dakota, I checked out this animal for a possible donation. His joints worked magnificently, and he doesn't need them any more.

Fun at the Dentist

2010-07-29T05:47:00.004-04:00

I should not have titled this one, especially using the word "dentist." I have a fear that many of you will not choose to read this post because of your fear of dentists or fear of going to the dentist. I promise, this won't hurt you. Yesterday, due to a cancellation, I was able to get into a dental surgeon to have a tooth checked. The tooth in question has already had a root canal, one of the seven I have. (I passed out and fell on my chin, breaking teeth when I was a teen.) Anyway, after several xrays and examination tests, the doctor wasn't sure. So we proceeded with the exploration. Fortunately, she drilled through the crown instead of taking it off. Good news/bad news. The tooth was hurting because it was cracked horizontally, and it had a fourth canal, untreated, that wasn't visible without the microscope. So for two hours the doc labored away and was able to do half of the job. She sealed the tooth temporarily and sent me on my way. As I was making my next appointment (which wasn't for 3 weeks) I suggested they call me if they had an opening. Good news, I guess. The doctor came to the desk and said she had an immediate opening. Would I want to return to the chair for two more hours and complete the job? NO! But I said yes. The doctor was able to complete the other two canals and fill the tooth. After four hours and a healthy bill, I was able to walk out without making another appointment. Maybe I will lose some weight as I give the tooth time to settle down and heal. Hopefully, I will not have to see a dentist for at least 6 months.

We Have Homework!

2010-07-28T05:28:00.004-04:00

It's time to get serious. I mean, I brought home all this work to do over the summer for school, and all I have done is move the stuff around. After all, my dining room table is loaded down and is surrounded by boxes of important stuff. Today is the day. The other fourth grade teacher, Becky, and I are going to get busy with the math standards. Yes, we are going to do school work during our summer off. Yes, we are going to be productive starting today, this morning, this summer. Does it sound like I am trying to convince myself to get started, to actually work? If I hadn't already invited Becky over to work, I would not do anything on it today. Thanks, Becky, for making me be productive even though I could scream and don't want to do anything. But then I need to remember how blessed we are in the states. It could be like the schools in Honduras. They are thankful also.

If I taught there, I wouldn't have to worry about academic standards or current math books or computer programs. I would only worry about traveling an hour and a half up the mountain on boulders and washouts for the road, teach 50 students in the morning and another 50 in the afternoon. Then travel back down the mountain.

To Watch the Race Or Babysit??

2010-07-26T06:10:00.002-04:00

I had front row seats, the best in the place! I was up close to the action. I was in the middle of the debree. I helped fuel three times. I finished in record time in the pit stops. No sunburn, no hard seats, no inebriated spectators. I chose well. I babysat my grandson all day while the others went to the race. I WON! What a sweet time. I was even showered with milk in the winner's circle. I love you, Cubby!

Horses, Chickens, and Goats, Oh, My!

2010-07-24T06:45:00.004-04:00

My granddaughter Toots and I have spent this past week attending the 4-H County Fair. Her most favorite thing was the snow cone. She had one or two every day. Next, she loved looking at, petting, and talking to the animals. The goats were her pick and she loved receiving kisses from them. Not sure how thrilled the goats were about that. LOL Her cousins had beef cows for their projects and let Toots help a little in getting them ready to show. Toots is tall for her age, but nothing to compare to the beef. At times I was a little fearful for her close proximity to the cows, but she had no fear. Hope when she is old enough to show that she chooses goats and NO cows.

More Honduran School News.

2010-07-23T06:07:00.006-04:00

While visiting the school in Honduras, I took some shots of the "centers" developed by the teacher for the students' use. The pictures are of Science and Math centers. All of the centers were perched on a narrow shelf across the back of the room with each clearly labeled. I marveled at them. From the items contained within each, I assume the teacher had to find/buy his own. But I should not judge what it takes to instruct the children. I know that my students would be so bored with the items while the Honduran children are so blessed.

Time For School in Honduras

2010-07-22T06:21:00.007-04:00

We have so much! When I boxed up my room to make way for the renovations of our building, I had over 70 large boxes of books and supplies. I dread having to unbox and shelve all my stuff when we finally get into our upgraded school buildings. But check out these photos of a school in Honduras. And two bathrooms were sufficient for the whole school.

Lawn Care the Honduran Way

2010-07-21T06:03:00.005-04:00

In any neighborhood in our state one can find meticulously manicured lawns, the pride of the owners. In Honduras it is a little bit different. You can see in the one picture the lawn before cutting. The other one is of a boy using the "mower", a machete to cut the lawn. And the young man was wearing flip flops.

And Sew It Goes

2010-07-20T08:19:00.002-04:00

What a night! Severe thunderstorms! Tornado warning! No power! Power back on! Power flickering! Heavy rains! But at the appointed time the faithful servants began arriving to begin our mission of sewing diapers for Haiti. We had 9 sewing machines whirring that beautiful sound, 8 ladies and 1 man operating the machines, one 5 year old who worked diligently cutting wash cloths apart, restacking, cutting threads on diapers, carrying items to sewers, and counting diapers and me, cutting elastic, clipping and turning diapers. What an awesome sight. What a way to allow God to use our talents to serve Him in this mission. Thanks to all who served. Looking forward to doing it again tonight.