holiday whats that!

Total absence of humor renders life impossible.
Colette, Chance Acquaintances, 1952French novelist (1873 - 1954)

haven't posted for awhile- been too darn busy! I have done more work since I have returned from Fla than I did the whole time in Fla- where's my puppy? I don't think I will complain about walking snickerdoodle for awhile! miss those smells-of Fla. Swimming & riding the bike! Yes I am glad to be retired FINALLY~!

came back to NJ and quickly started to pack things to put in the truck for another load to Fla. this is the end of moving to FLA except for dau #1 collections! then a short attempt to get things in order before returning to MD. not much luck in that regard! next week will have to drive back up there and seriously get the place in order since we have it back on the market and want it to sell! plus with the market we don't want to take a beating! which will prob happen anyhow! I can't believe we accumulated such a bunch of stuff since we had it all cleaned out just a year ago! does time ever flow!

then back to MD, twins 8th birthday, end of school, grandson#1 has Lyme disease again! pack grandson# 1 to take trip with Poppie to Fla, grandson #2 has grown so much and he is becoming quite the young man! gave dau #1 ring I ordered for her for Mother's day- oops-one of the stones not the right birth stone! 40 wacks for grannyjax! I sure thought I said the right stone- will have to look into that! she liked it nonetheless I think.

Dau #2 decided to wash all the clothes in the whole 6 bedroom house! plus change the linens- hang out to dry, fold and almost put away. Along with changing season for the clothes, putting school uniforms away.
it finally got warm here in MD- went from winter to summer since I have been here the past week! O did I forget taking out some bushes in the yard, and planting new flowers? I did have to clean my room here too! I don't remember leaving it that way!!!!

HOHUM not doing too much since back here! no time to crochet and get that thing done I have been doing, unless I want to crochet instead of sleep! I think I got up at 5am today- couldn't sleep, just thinking of all I have to do LOL since the kids were at their dad's, really haven't seen them too much, so they all had to bunk in my room! went to bed around 12! eek- and I couldn't sleep! we were like on a camping trip laughing & having the munchies just before I put the lights out! cookies, drinks and rice cakes! omy- what a bad grannjax! momma had to come in and say you 4 better get to sleep before I come in with the belt! yes she spoke to me too!

Enough of quiet time for me! the kids are now up- cake for snack before breakfast! am being bubbled to death by my #2 grandson which I bought a bubble gun for yesterday! Isn't it wonderful being a five yr old with a compliant granny! not yelling DON"T BUBBLE ME! NOT IN THE HOUSE! We already checked out the animals online, thank heaven for cartoons!

Well it's the start of a new day- let's see what it has in store for me-And you!

Rain

Well after almost six weeks in Florida it finally rained, but mostly at night. We had a mild sprinkle when I took the dog for a walk this am, and it looks like the skies may open up any time.

Today was supposed to be a do nothing day, but of course #1 daughter had other thoughts in her mind. She was a bit depressed today, guess cause Mommanator will be flying back to NJ on Tuesday. I still have to watch the kiddos during the summer. I do miss those munchkins!

We started off by going to our town of Safety Harbor and went to a thrift shop- I do love those- they didn't have too many yard sales guess cause of the weather? I bought something for the kiddos, and hubby. I spent a whole $6.00 and they should all be happy with my purchases.


Then off to Clearwater Beach we went, to scope it out, before #2 daughter & kiddos come here in June. Man was it congested in Clearwater! They are sorta remodelling the downtown area and have much to complete! We then went over a bridge in Clearwater and found the best "Beach Park"- was very clean and the parking was great. They even had a boardwalk, but they don't really know what a boardwalk is! It goes about 100 feet toward the beach, then stops! She got to laughing after that! Folk in NJ really know how to build a boardwalk! For those of you who don't know what I mean ya ought to Google Atlantic City or Wildwood Boardwalk!


Next we had to go to Publix?? a grocery store, to get Orange juice cause she wanted Fuzzy Navels this eve. No wine for us today! O and of course the Hallmark store to purchase some birthday cards.


Do we go home now? No, we go over to my friends for dinner- she made homemade pizza- Yummy- did I ever tell you she is a great cook and Italian to boot! I have never had pizza with shrimp before but it was all thumbs up for that! She even made homemade sauce/gravy to put on it!

I missed my afternoon nap yet again and now it's 9pm and have taken the pup out for his final walk and am ready to hit the hay and watch some TV.

"just for you dog lovers- I did come home a few times in between all these stops to walk the pup- he didn't have to cross his little paws!'

The discovery of a new dish does more for human happiness than the discovery of a new star.
Anthelme Brillat-Savarin (1755 - 1826), Physiologie du Gout, 1825

I'm sad today but content

Last eve I was called by one of my Aunts to be told that my Great Aunt had passed. She was in her 90's , lived a good life, had 6 children and many grandchildren. She recently had gone blind and had had many falls. SOO the old adage- well now isn't suffering any longer comes to play.

But was she suffering!? she had quite the family! Her daughters,& son were ever present-taking her places and visiting every day, laughing, joking and making each other happy. Every Sunday all her children came to visit and she still would make biscuits & gravy or fried chicken & greens.

She had the most sweet personality a person could have! She was one of 13 or so, being one of the youngest and the last survivor of that tribe! She was my grannies baby sister. Everyday and night were a blessing to her and she didn't mind telling you so!

Although her life wasn't always rosy. She managed to pull the strength from the Lord to get herself through. Two of her sons predeceased her and she never quit saying that wasn't supposed to be- 'mom's should die before their children'!

I have been sitting & thinking of some of those wonderful times I spent with her and family and I will carry with me till I die. Thanks Aunt Alice for some of those wonderful childhood memories!

AN EXCLAMATION MARK !!!!!!

I found this on an other's site and just had to share- does it describe me or what!? For those of you who know me personally. Especially the part of thinking and saying it without a filter! I have gotten a bit better with age about that, but somehow it is hard to control! At least with me you don't have to worry what I am thinking or saying behind your back! Somehow I am able to keep secrets though, must be the nurse training that did that for me! I don't share anything that you don't want others to know! Except maybe Merci's engagement ring! TEEHEE
I'd like to know about that dash- so if you are one let me know!
So much to do today. Hope to post about my weekend in St Augustine soon!

I Am Exclamation Point
You are a bundle of... well, something.
You're often a bundle of joy, passion, or drama.
You're loud, brash, and outgoing.
If you think it, you say it.
Definitely not the quiet type, you really don't keep a lot to yourself.
You're lively and inspiring.
People love to be around your energy.(But they do secretly worry that you'll spill their secrets without even realizing it.)
You excel in: Public speaking
You get along best with: the Dash



Or share this Blogthing with a direct link:
http://www.blogthings.com/whatpunctuationmarkareyouquiz/

this and that Saturday

It is Saturday almost 11 am and the temp is already at 90 degrees! Humidity is also high! It's HOT in Florida! Meanwhile I talked with hubby awhile ago and he reports it was 51 degrees in NJ-he even had to turn the heater on last night?
Hubby is really itching to get back to FLA, his joints feel better here.

Today, later I will be travelling with friend by car to ST Augustine,Fla- don't relish that drive, prob 3-4 hours away! Her sis travelled there- AND I'd like to know why she didn't come to the western side of the state? for a vaca. The gulf is much warmer than the ocean right now, but I guess we will spend time at the beach anyway.

We found a new place to eat yesterday- It's called Crisper's- really good food- you can take outside and view the gulf while eating or inside where the air conditioning is on- just guess what we did!

the dog got groomed this week- you should see him prance around with his little scarf around his neck! He looks like a woman parading her new hairdo!

The Fire ant bites are still driving me crazy! oops crazier! when o when will the itch stop. I have tried- bleach, alcohol(internal & external)TEEHEE, benadryl, Mellaleuca, baking soda paste, pain cream, aloe, hydro cortisone, calamine lotion, noxema, anti-Itch lotion(benadryl like cream), swimming in the chlorinated pool, the Hot tub, meditation & prayer! I may try fingernail polish today!The funniest thing someone told me was to try and not scratch! how absurd!

Bought a Jasmine bush yesterday and had the bright idea of planting today, but it's just too darn hot to plant today- I was supposed to get up earlier, but benedryl makes me sleep!

The post office is collecting for the food bank today- my street did pretty well almost every mailbox had some plastic bag with food attached to it. Guess they don't care about greening the earth- I just hope they recycle those plastic bags! Every mailbox got one in their mail this week!

So where are all the bloggers I usually hear from! No- one is blogging too much!
Have a great weekend one and all!

I think that I shall never see a billboard lovely as a tree.
Perhaps, unless the billboards fall,
I'll never see a tree at all.
Ogden Nash (1902 - 1971)

38!!!!!!!!!!!!

May 8th is quite a day for our family- our #1 daughter was born. Yikes she is 38 today! How can that be? it seems like yesterday I was holding that tiny 4pound 5oz girl in my arms, with all the dreams and expectations one thinks of for their 1st child! My hubby could actually put his ring finger on her hand as a bracelet. Physically she did not turn out as we expected, you see she is physically disabled and uses a wheelchair or crutches, she has cerebral palsy. I don't cry about that anymore because what she lacks in physicality she has gained in spirit & personality. She is a sweet person and everyone likes her (I don't think its about them feeling sorry for her). She is genuine, trustworthy and giving beyond measure.
She graduated high school & an extended program for office occupations.
She is one that people can see Christ in. AND she KNOWS Christ!
She has been a missionary and been to other countries for that. She has been with a Christian organization called YWAM and graduated from their program.
She tried college and decided she wasn't able to do it to completion.
She was a secretary with the state of NJ for 10years-giving her all. But decided to move to Florida so quit that and is taking some time off from working till I get moved down here permanently and "kick her in the butt". (those of you who really know me understand that comment!- I AM the mommanator!)
Although not married and without children which she would very much like. She is the Godmother to- Carissa, Elizabeth, Danny, and Alexzandria. Needless to say that is almost a full time job if ya do it like her. She needs and relishes being a part of their lives.
She can remember things I truly don't! like when people died-dates/times! when someones birthday date/ time and almost weights& heights., addresses, phone numbers, even her bank account number(now who remembers that!? not me for sure!)
She hears everything! so talk lowly if ya don't want her to hear it!
She does stitchery/needle work.
"You can do all things thru Christ who strengthens me!" her quote
Read Psalm 139- her favorite scripture
She likes to read Erma Bombeck.
She likes Stephan Curtis Chapman music
She collects! Beany Babies-bears only now, Teddy Bears of all shapes and sizes, coffee cups from states( she doesn't drink cooffee!). Porcelain dolls-which I have put a stop to! 'Precious Moments' Her collections are starting to take up more room than her LOL
She is but one of the Loves of my life and this is just a small tribute to her.



The person who refuses to love doesn't know the first thing about God, because God is love-so you can't know Him if you don't love. 1stJohn 4:8

Seven reasons not to step on a "RED ANT" / "FIRE ANT" hill

I am still determined to be cheerful and happy, in whatever situation I may be; for I have also learned from experience that the greater part of our happiness or misery depends upon our dispositions, and not upon our circumstances.
Martha Washington (1732 - 1802)


1. you scream , yell and scare the neighbors
2. drop or throw anything in your hands
3. you run around like you are crazy and those neighbors you scare are calling the lune bin 911
4. you can't find anything to put on it so you go buy every darn chemical you can think of to quell the itch/burn
5. you drive so fast to the store a cop stops you or you have an accident
6. you scratch, scratch till your skin is bleeding
7. you don't stop itching for many days, cause you can't keep your hands off it

did I say only seven
8. you wake up in the middle of the night and can't get back to sleep for itching/scratching
9. you take a nap- from taking all the benedryl to calm it down
10. you become very cranky
11. "thou shall not kill"? you go to every ant hill on you property and put ant kill down

I think I could go on and on, but I am sure you get the idea.


NEVER NEVER NEVER step on a "RED ANT"HILL! OO and remember what Martha said!

It's Saturday Morning

All dressed and ready to go on a shopping extravaganza!
#1 daughter, a close friend and I are off to some outlets near here.
Don't really have anything in mind really just a girls day out.

Ya know how us gals like to commisurate over stores!
There's something cathartic about it!
I suppose something might just jump into the shopping cart!
Am on the lookout for new sheets for my bed, a spatula for cooking, and who knows what else.

I have daughters to go shopping whenever I want and am retired.
My friend works fulltime and only goes by herself most times,
what fun it that.
No-one to say yeah or nah to something you've picked up.
Or someone to say-DO you REALLY need that?

Hopefully we won't get lost today!
My friend has been here for 10 years, but won't promise that.
Or spend any money I don't really have.
Must get my bags to take along and clean out the car
of any unnecessary things, so the bundles will fit.
Have a good day one and all, and let ya know when I get back-
Unless the shopping monster swallows me up!

Why didn't we listen!
I believe that banking institutions are more dangerous to our liberties than standing armies. If the American people ever allow private banks to control the issue of their currency, first by inflation, then by deflation, the banks and corporations that will grow up around [the banks] will deprive the people of all property until their children wake-up homeless on the continent their fathers conquered. The issuing power should be taken from the banks and restored to the people, to whom it properly belongs.
Thomas Jefferson (1743 - 1826), Letter to the Secretary of the Treasury Albert Gallatin (1802)

I am now a cycle momma!

Yesterday my neighbor here in Fla(who is moving) gave me a three wheeled bike. One would think it would be easier to ride than a two wheeled version! Alas, my mistake or stupidity! I got on it, I got off of it, ran it in circles, over the sidewalks and onto the grass. I laughed so much I almost wet myself.
Another neighbor came out to see what all the fuss was about. (She's 74)
What is going on here don't you even know how to ride a bike for crying out loud! Don't run over me or the dog, you fool. EEK you're over driving the darn thing, go in a straight line!!!
By this time I was laughing so hard I couldn't stay on the bike and tears were coming from the eyes(not because I couldn't ride, but because, just because!)
My handicapped daughter who was in her motorized wheelchair was laughing out of fear and of joy I think! Mom don't run over me or snickers. We laughed and laughed.
Finally, I got it down and even rode almost the entire community, and put snickers in the back in the basket.
What a fun time was had by all at my expense- at least they were laughing and I can take it!
While riding I thought of the bikers VA GAL wrote about in Denmark- good thing I wasn't there! I would have caused a major accident. Also, glad I learned before the grand kids came down so they don't think I am a complete idiot. It is great to laugh at oneself with that bellyaching cleansing laughter!

I know of no more encouraging fact than the unquestioned ability of a man to elevate his life by conscious endeavor.
Henry David Thoreau (1817 - 1862)

Wlaking the dog -Smells and scents

Whatever is in any way beautiful hath its source of beauty in itself, and is complete in itself; praise forms no part of it. So it is none the worse nor the better for being praised.
Marcus Aurelius Antoninus (121 AD - 180 AD), Meditations

ARGH you must be saying-she has definitely gone off her wig this time- Smells of all things!

Well last eve as I was indeed walking our dog I smelled the most wonderful things;

The gardenias are all in bloom here and Snickers for some odd reason always stops by any of them, and I am so thankful as it is one of the most wonderful fragrances. I really love gardenias. I had to have them for my wedding bouquet many moons ago- did I tell you all I married in March with snow on the ground-not too many gardenia bushes abloom in NJ in March, but alas-I did have them imported for my bouquet! I really never knew how tall they grew in Fla and they are just about everywhere where I live, everyone has one or two of them!

The next fragrance is Jasmin! whew a close second to the gardenia!

Then there are those balmy sea/ocean breezes we have here!

Did I forget the bogenvia! , the new mown grass! It is almost the Garden of Eden here. there are others I haven't learned the names of as of yet- more to follow!

So taking the doggie is sheer pleasure for me. Then my neighbor calls hey there, come over for a glass of wine and I am "forced " to smell the bouquet of the grape vine! Pretty nice one I must admit! AHH the joys of walking the dog in Florida!

AND I thought I-95 was bad!

Have been trying to learn how to get around here in Florida without getting lost, but that hasn't been too easy! The drivers here are insane! There are too many vehicles and not enough real estate! Plus hubby decided to take my navigator home with him!

You have the old folks with their cataract glasses on with walkers and canes jutting out the windows who can't turn their heads to see if anything is coming, so just point and shoot for where they want to go! Couldn't hear a horn if ya blew it.

Then there are the SUV's & Hummers who drive like they are at Daytona. When they make their quick u-turns, look like they will turn over!

Does anyone use a turn signal where you live, I don't think they know what they are down here! I also don't think anyone leaves their home on time for an appointment- fast is the rule!

They do however use their horns- I have never heard so many people use their their horns in NJ or MD.

And there are the islands in the middle of the roads-I have gone the wrong way more than once cause I didn't know a damn island was there until I was already on the wrong side of it! Did it twice yesterday and just screamed - egads glad no-one was coming!

I have gotten really lost twice since being here, but have had lovely drives in doing so and seen more of the state than I would have if not lost. I don't get anxious when lost, too many years as a visiting nurse and following directions of incompetent folk, just grin and bear it! I have nothing but time and finally reach my destination! The other day daughter #1 was with me and she was getting really anxious- I had to tell her to knock it off, what else did we have to do. She replied-it sure is good Dad isn't here he would have a cow- and I had to remind her I wasn't dad! We probably went 50 miles out of our way to get back home, but we did it. We did have to untie the legs of the pup though they were so crossed from him trying not to pee in the house! lol!

I still love it here though (note to me, must post on all the flowers here) and will get used to the crazy drivers! I am a veteran of I-95!

I believe in the forgiveness of sin and the redemption of ignorance.
Adlai E. Stevenson Jr. (1900 - 1965), retort to a heckler asking him to state his beliefs, Time, November 1, 1963

ANOTHER THIS & THAT

Seems like here in Fla I haven't had time to post-go figure! I have barely time to even look at others blogs, but think I am settling into some kind of routine now?

Don't ever come to Florida and not wear sunscreen! My darling skin is now a vibrant red after spending 2 hours in the pool and hot tub, don't even think about the pain, have been slathering cream onto it every couple of hours to combat the heat & pealing that will occur- Don't send this to my dermatologist- he would kill me. I spent most of the day today resting in bed from the sun/headache-not good!

Anybody from NJ want to get a drivers license in Fla? make sure you bring lots of documentation! and I thought NJ was bad. After spending 1 1/2 hrs looking for the place I didn't have enough documentation! not happy about that and will have to wait til I get back to NJ to find it. It took me so long to find cause maquest goofed! also, they don't have motor vehicle places- you go to the tax collector and isn't seen easily from the road?

I backed my car mirror into a wall yesterday- oops broke it, now to find a place that sells them. After quite awhile I found an Advance Auto and fixed it myself- aren't you all proud of me!

Gonna get the dog neutered next week! that will be fun!

Daughter #1 here in Fla-she seems to be enjoying me being here. Says she doesn't know when if ever she will come back to NJ, and I had such a time convincing her she would like it.
Had a power outage today seems as though a transformer blew- it only took them an hour to get the electricity back on after it went out!

Now to the question of the day- I am singlehandedly trying much of the labels of wine here in Fla- got any suggestions? for a new one for me to try!

Man is so made that he can only find relaxation from one kind of labor by taking up another.
Anatole France (1844 - 1924), The Crime of Sylvestre Bonnard

this & that

I have been reading all your posts with great enthusiasm, however have had a little glitch with my daughters computer, so haven't been able to post or comment. On the plane down I scripted this:
An ocean of distant clouds I see
As I travel by plane to a distant city
The sky above is a vibrant blue hue,
which reminds me of the sea in the morning dew.

With all troubles and depression left behind
I am ready for a wonderful vacation time
To our new home purchased with glee
just after Christmas we would get the key.

Taking care of the grandchildren my responsibility
will be transferred to grandpa readily!
I will be missed by the kids
but it's time for me
the winter clothes to shed
Enough said.

I have been here four days already and it has been a whirlwind! But I feel so relaxed and happy, guess the "sad " is gone again-I hope. For some reason down here I don't feel the pressures I feel in NJ or MD, but guess this will pass in time? Hope not. It really feels like we made the right decision to do this thing to Florida, I am still quite in love with the place. While in the pool yesterday I laid back and floated and said "now this is being retired!" Probably by Sept-Oct I can move down here full time. The little tyke will be in school full time, and that was the deal.

Man can my hubby shop- I had forgotten that, I don't like shopping as much as he, we have been out every day, all day since I have come. After shopping yest, he said "we won't be shopping any tomorrow, I think it's a day for rest and packing before I go back home", but before we went to sleep last night he said " I have to go to Walmart tomorrow to pick up a couple of things before I go"

He prepared a wonderful dinner for my arrival and Ya should have had some of the cake! Every other eve we have been out to other folks' houses for dinner. I haven't cooked a thing since being here, not even breakfast (he does that) and of course we go out for lunch.
Reality will strike when he goes home-we are going out again this eve.
Hope all are well and as blessed as I feel.

Spring Cleaning?

Just what is that anyhow? must we do, I guess so.
I shouldn't have any with moving out & in all in the same year,
but non the less I must do!
It's incredible how much stuff we accumulate! Especially when hubby is a collector!
I have just lost interest in yelling about it, so now I must pay!
Now I must again pack to move all the stuff we got when we moved back in,
before we sell the ole place AGAIN! This time we are really downsizing! As the place in Fla is smaller. What winter stuff do we keep? What do we get rid of. Plus I still have the stuff at my daughters in MD that I STILL have to go through OMY!

Back to what is spring cleaning, sorry I digress!
We clean the house!
We clean the gutters,
We clean the yard of trash & leaves to start the spring
So the flowers look as pretty as they can be!

We get rid of clothing too small or stuff we just don't want any more!
Good Will likes me!
We clean and polish till it looks brand new before the dust bunnies can come in and deposit their mites and like-(O I thought the bunnies were supposed to leave colored eggs, my mistake).
Then there is painting and touching up from the winters effects. Yes I live in NJ! and it does have an effect!
Get the grill ready, do I have to prune! How about planting some tomatoes- they are best in June.
Now to another spring cleaning.
I confess I should spend more time on ; that's the clearing of my head of whats been bothering me, examine myself and what I should do for HIM. Spend time in the word, pray and help others as much as I can and be a good example for Him.
And the most important I guess at this point is:"do it all as unto HIM" 1Cor 15:58

Winter is on my head, but eternal spring is in my heart.
Victor Hugo (1802 - 1885)

And I thought mine was a catastrophic week!

The week started as any other week at my daughter's, but then!
Danny's tricycle broke down! alas-to the trash it went,
then the next day his "Harley" hot wheel motorcycle broke! Grammy what am I gonna do! thru tear stained eyes.

The next eve while daughter was working I get a blood curdling scream from the back door!Grammy the dog got loose and look what he did to my hands while I was trying to get him back. Mind ya this is my 5 year old grandson screaming with his hands in my face all bloody. I am a nurse, but this was too much-this is my grand baby crying and screaming and BLEEDING. Kisses and washing the hands and Lots of band aids were the ticket.
Seems as though all 5o pounds of him was trying to rescue the dog, that I had trouble holding and getting leashed back up.

Then Friday,amidst me getting ready for the drive up I95 Easter weekend. (I save the best til last); the kids were out playing on the trampoline- The twins come running to the house yelling Kenny fell off the trampoline and he can't breathe! My daughter and I looked at each other and can't run fast enough down to the tramp! I, of course being older almost got there when she was bringing him back up- he was quite shaken and crying and breathing harshly (asthma kicked in)! We checked him out, no broken bones not even a scratch, but the tears were definately flowing! He did complain of some aches and pains- we couldn't get out of him just how he fell-head first, arm shoulder or what. We finally calmed down after that and her work called and said she had 3 visits to make! O Joy- I have a kid with no means of transportation, with bandages on all fingers and another one with a terrible headache and they were all hungry!
Needless to say we had a calmer afternoon- me the kiddos, lunch and movies off the tv!

As the day progressed Kenny kept saying I have a headache and I feel loopy- my being the nurse looked into his eyes and found unequal pupils! EEK what more can happen! I IMMEDIATELY CALLED THE DAUGHTER AND SUMMONED HER HOME TO GET HIM TO A DOC SOMEWHERE!

When all was said and done the doc felt he was OK. however found he had a slight fever. They came home, I took the others to the father's home for their weekend visit. With my daughter still being on call for the weekend, Kenny not wanting to go too far away from Mom and Grandma - we decided to keep him home for at least the night- There goes my going home! but how could I say no to those big beautiful blue eyes!
After awhile his temp went up to 102.5 humm must have caught something and that's why he was feeling so out of sorts! Some motrin solved that problem- he is well on the mend now.

I said all this to say I thought my week was bad, but it was nothing compared to the week Jesus had for me a sinner. He was denied by his friends, he was sold by his friend, he was tortured, he was tried for sins he did not commit, hung on a cross and left to die! HOWEVER HE rose again! and will come again! HAPPY EASTER TO ALL!

Whatever God's dream about man may be, it seems certain it cannot come true unless man cooperates.
Stella Terrill Mann

Cork? Corkscrew? Wine?

The other day my daughter and I went to a local winery, just to get our favorite wine for some spirits in the evening.
As I have written before I have moved a couple of times over the past year AND to my surprise when we went to open the bottle there was not a corkscrew. I think they went to Florida?
Mom, what are we gonna do? Me, well what did they do before they had corkscrews, we're inventive and we want the wine so I suggest we invent something or we go to the store and pick up a cork screw. SHE, I don't want to go out, ME, and neither do I so guess we better put our thinking caps on.
We first tried a metal shish kabob skewer! to no avail, in fact we had trouble getting it out- it may have been the laughter that ensued that we couldn't get it out. then, we walked about the house looking for something, finally we went to hubby's tools! a very large screw, a screw driver & and pair of pliers! After all what is a corkscrew anyhow but a large screw!
We were quite thirsty by the time we got that cork out, again amid MUCH laughter. I never realised corks were soooo long!
Well by midnight the wine was gone and we were sleeping soundly!

Imagination is the beginning of creation. You imagine what you desire, you will what you imagine and at last you create what you will.
George Bernard Shaw (1856 - 1950)
There is nothing more dreadful than imagination without taste.
Johann Wolfgang von Goethe (1749 - 1832)

when's Spring?

Recently someone asked me when I thought Spring started?? What an odd question, it's March 20th or 21st. Apparently some folk believe it is March 1st- I had never heard of that. So, I looked it up on the net!

Most recognise Spring in the traditional way, by the astrological-March 20th/21st. but of recent past meterologically it is March 1st. Seems it is easier to think in the seasons in quarters by the meteriologically minded! therefore Spring is March April, & May.

Guess some can't remember 21st!? People are always changing nomenclature-what's up with that!?
Still others say when we turn the clocks forward-"now spring is here". the days are warmer & we have more sunlight.

In the scheme of things- does it matter? When I feel warm gusts of wind & rain and the daffodils & crocuses bloom AND I don't have to wear a heavy overcoat-I say Spring has sprung look where all the pretty flowers is! Needless to say also, my allergies start to give way to a clear head and I can breath without holding a Kleenex to my nose-it's spring! hooray!


Spring is when you feel like whistling even with a shoe full of slush.
Doug Larson

Socks, socks, socks

I think I have complained about folding socks before, but must get on a soap box about it today. My daughter said when are you gonna post something new- I told her if I wasn't so busy finding mates & folding socks, I might have time! We presently have 2 laundry baskets full of mismatched socks- I tell ya now isn't that rediculous!

I think I have come up with the perfect solution to the problem, but she finds fault with it!

Give all the socks they presently have to "Good Will". Buy all new ones; same size, same color, same design. Sounds perfectly reasonable to me- they all wear about the same size. Even the 4 yr old wears about the same size as her. Don't deviate from that except if they don't make them any longer!

Then her response, but Ken needs to wear black ones and the girls like tights- No problemo- black you say- get him same size & design, only black. Tights you say- they stick together so there is no mate to find.

My other solution is -don't mate them- let em wear mismatched socks or let them find the matches- She actually had fault with this too- ya know they have a dress code at school, and you also know they can't find their matches, they have enough trouble finding their school bags, clothes, shoes etc X4

OMG I just came up with the perfect solution- they don't wear socks at all- let em go barefooted and clothes less- Now I know why nudists are nudist's- they couldn't find matches to their socks!!

One cannot fix one's eyes on the commonest natural production without finding food for a rambling fancy.
Jane Austen (1775 - 1817), Mansfield Park

First Year Basketball

Ok Folks ,
this is the first year of my grandson playing basketball. This is the team, you can by their look they are really into it! However, scroll down and you can see some determination in their eyes!
They got into the play-off, however lost that game by a margin. They were told from the very beginning- it was all about fun, not wins. They DID like to win though. You could see them literally improving by each game, it took several games before they won one, so they were filled with humility! My grandson is # 8. I guess he was the tallest on the team,

Here you can see em enjoying ice cream after a win! Nothing like ice cream to quench one after a big game

Here's the team with their coach. She was the only woman coach for the league! Go GINA!


Again after a game, sisters being a part of the action!

Can you see the determination of my grandson? nothing was getting past him! He could be quite intimidating.

Run boys! get back into guarding mode!

Was it Stupid?

Today was about 50-60 degrees out. All day long the hubby said-let's go swimming, to which I replied are you stupid or something like that! I am cold now! Then thought for a moment- I went to Iceland and went to the "Blue Lagoon" while it was snowing out. I also went to a pool in Kentucky in the middle of a snow storm that was an outdoor heated pool.

Finally at 5:30 pm I relented and went with him. You see I have been in good ole Fla for a week now and the weather has been let's say-less than nice (read previous post).

We had to shower-eek, I thought there would be frost on my toes till we got the shower.
Then we went into the pool- now mind ya it is heated to 80 degrees -so it really wasn't that bad.
Then we went to the hot tub-temp there 102 degrees. Let me tell ya YUMMY. Of course after 25 Min's I went back into the pool to freeze again, and shortly went back into the hot tub.
It really was quite exhilarating!

It's back to NJ tomorrow- have fun while I can!

If there are no stupid questions, then what kind of questions do stupid people ask? Do they get smart just in time to ask questions?
Scott Adams (1957 - )

what a difference a day makes

yesterday when I arose it was 80 degrees AND muggy here in Florida
we went shopping pretty near all day, then had friends over for supper
we had roast pork, baked potato, salad, asparagus, rolls and dessert of either yogurt pie or strawberries & cream over pound cake.

during dinner it started to rain, lightning & thunder AND rain AND rain! wind a blowing and did I say RAIN and the temp started to plummet

this morning it's 50 degrees and still a bit windy. cool in fact, however it still beats the 27 degrees in MD & NJ! we were thinking about going to a baseball game, but we may wait till tomorrow and hope it warms a bit.

NAVEL ORANGES are WONDERFUL right now!

Think of all the beauty still left around you and be happy.
Anne Frank (1929 - 1945), Diary of a Young Girl, 1952

24 hours

The last 24 hours has been jammed!

The kiddos waked me yest am yelling "Mommy hurt her leg", I come downstairs to find out she has dropped a frozen chichen on it! O My

To top it off I really didn't want to get up as my throat was killing me, I didn't sleep in my bed and didn't have my C-PAP!

After delivering the children to school (we have to drive them every day
back & forth as is private school & no busses)!

I looked on the computer for what had happened during the night; Castro resigned!, the Pres & wife are in Africa, oil prices are going up AGAIN!, the satellite shootdown is postponed(I am flying on Sunday-I hope it doesn't affect the flight, a young collegiate couple are missing-Providence& NJ, another hurricaine hit the south, the biggest frog in the world was found, AND we prob will miss the lunar eclipse due to snow.

After school we all decided to go to the doc! EEK 4 children to sit in a waiting room! Daughter had the foresite to take their homework with them. Her foot is not broken, but I have strept throat and needed an antibiotic- so we had to then go to pharmacy. My perscription card had a glitch, but the pharmacist squared it away so I could have the meds for the $9.00 fee instead of the real med price. After 2 pills I am feeling somewhat better,BUT not 100%

Then they had to have dinner, baths & bed!

This morn-another 2 doc visits- the 4yr old & 9yr old have sore throats. And daughter is feeling it too. They are all clear thank God.
On the way back it started to snow! and that's my 24hrs- how about you!

for the advent

Today I recieved this in an email, and couldn't help for my blogger friends to see and enjoy. Quite inspirational! Enjoy


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grandchildren diddies

Was in NJ last week and had a phone call every day from my youngest grandchild-When are coming home granny! Even had a voice mail from him. Right now he is rubbing my back-he said he has been waiting to do that-yum feels good!

There are candy wrappings all around the house-had valentines day here for sure!

My granddaughters presented me with 2 bouquets of flowers and big smiles across their faces-look what we got for you granny! One with roses and the other with gerber daisies-what a nice surprise-can't do candy! even my daughter remembered my advent fastings, actually she remembers it better than me at times.

Daughter made homemade chicken noodle soup-I felt was good and tasty, the kiddos --some liked some didn't. it had too much chicken in it-go figure.

Despite the age difference in the boys-they get along quite well, now they are doing video games together-they take turns and no-one has to tell them! You should see them when they decide to run around the house and chase each other-EEK you should hear the noise.

The oldest twin has taken to making stuff for me out of her aluminium foil from lunch every day. I make a fuss over it and she gets a great big smile. Actually she is quite artistic! So far I have a horse head, a pencil holder, a duck, a manta ray and a fish. I am just hoping I don't get food poisoning from them being on my wall! The cat has taken at least one of them down.

It's Sat am and we have our last basketball game today. Not till 3:45pm don't know why so late-owell, just grin and bear it!

book mark

book marked
I found this meme and found intriquing- how about you?

Pick up the nearest book
(of at least 123 pages).

Open the book to page 123.
Find the fifth sentence.
Post the next three sentences.

Tag five people: Zelda, Merci, Mollie Malone, Pax Romano,& POP


"Our hearts pounded in our throats. I wondered how long it would be before wild-eyed, drug-crazed cultists on motorcycles stumbled across our camp. 'Well, lookit what we got heer!'

from Vol.#2 of "Weird NJ"
I love the Weird NJ series! Pictures and all!

Tornado

Interactive Map
Storm Damage Across the South
"Many had spent a harrowing Tuesday night punctuated by breaking glass and warning sirens as the tornadoes tossed trailer homes into the air, collapsed the roof of a Sears store in Memphis, whittled away half a Caterpillar plant near Oxford, Miss., and shredded dorms at Union University in Jackson, Tenn., where crews rescued nine students trapped in the rubble."
'New York Post'

My heart goes out to all involved in these tornado's! Holy cow how many were there in one day! Was it 68 or something like that? And 50 dead so far! As in my post "As Winter Wind Blows" -I don't like the strong wind very much. It gives me an eeire, creepy feeling! Makes my insides crawl! The wind is blowing here in MD today, but not the force it blew in those southern states!

I can't even imagine what these folk felt! or are now going through. I do pray they have great family and friends to turn to in this time!

ASH WEDNESDAY

You are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God's own people, in order that you may proclaim the mighty acts of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light.
-1 Peter 2:9 (NRSV)



On this eve of Ash Wednesday(Shrove Tuesday), I sit here and contemplate the next six weeks.
One of my resolutions this year was to read more scripture and be nearer to Him. So thought I would share one with you today.
My religion does not require or realy advocate "giving up something for" Lent, however as I search my faith/spiritual practises don't think it will harm anybody.
So with that said, along with my New Years Resolution named above, I am fasting from chocolate & ice cream. I also want to do some type of exercise daily.
I am trying to rid myself of a few unwanted Christmas holiday pounds so it can't hurt anyway!

Can you even believe it's Ash Wednesday already!

As Winter Wind Blows

The wind is piercing thru the branches of barren trees
the trash cans are wanting to leave the yard & street
the bows of the trees are bending to the ground
As Winter Wind Blows.

The chimney's howling like a tornado is passing
the wires on the roof are dancing to and fro
Even the tv scrambles it's signal
As Winter Wind Blows

Nothing can be done about it
It's Mother Nature blowing for you to know she is still there
Be calm inside even if you feel like yelling
As Winter Wind Blows

There's food in the fridge
the heater is running and supper is cooking on the stove
You could be on the street with not even a blanket to heat
As Winter Wind Blows

In the depth of winter, I finally learned that within me there lay an invincible summer.
Albert Camus (1913 - 1960)

If we had no winter, the spring would not be so pleasant: if we did not sometimes taste of adversity, prosperity would not be so welcome.
Anne Bradstreet (1612 - 1672), 'Meditations Divine and Moral,' 1655

winners!

The time left on the scoreboard is 5.5 seconds, score 22-20 our favor, the basketball is in the opponents hands! Forward they go to the hoop, up, up & away the ball goes-MISSED- Hooray, yells, screams, & shouts of joy for the winners. This is the first win they have had all basketball season. Everyone is agreed winning is such fun & exciting. Let me catch my breath! What a great feeling for me how must these 8-9 year olds feel. They only have a few games left for the season. They have been taught to loose humbly. Plus they have grown & learned so much of basketball this season. They really look so improved. Now, can they win with humility also!

This is not fictional this is my 8 year old grandsons game on Saturday. They have truly known the agony of defeat, winning is glorious for them. For most of them it is their first year of playing basketball, but they have gelled and grown so much on & off the basketball field. From listening to others they eat, drink and sleep basketball as my grandson does.

At one time I heard a parent say,"why are our kids so nice on the playing field?" Is this a bad thing one questions? They have toughened up a bit, but still play fairly! We do have so much fun at the games. All the parents have been so supportive for the kids.
They have learned life lessons on that court. To work as a team, to listen carefully to each other and authority, to practise to make oneself better, to share and to loose gracefully.
Now lets see how the rest of the season goes.

The moment of victory is much too short to live for that and nothing else.
Martina Navratilova (1956 - )

Safety Harbor Florida

My hubby and I purchased a home in an over 55 community the first part of January. We are planning on being snow birds for awhile. My youngest grandson is still not in school. He doesn't start kinder garden till next September. Where he goes is only a half day program. We had promised our youngest daughter we would help her out till he is in school full time with child care. Sure ties us down, but guess we will be doing.

I absolutely love the place. It has been completely renovated, just so the lady who owned could sell it. It is a single story double wide. It has three bedrooms, 2 complete baths, a dining room, kitchen & living room. It also has a storage shed/workroom for the hubby and a screened in lanai. Burber carpet throughout except in Bathrooms & kitchen/dining room-which has linoleum & pergo. All new appliances! AND COMPLETELY PAID FOR!

Our eldest daughter who is handicapped is moving with us. She quit her job and flew the coop too. It should be great for her as they have swimming pool, community activities, hot tub, miniature golf, fishing lake. Just they pool alone will be quite advantageous for her as she loves swimming and is quite good therapy as well. We will put job hunting on hold for awhile as she needs a break! LOL. My hubby also has problems with arthritis so the weather and pool/hot tub good for him.
Safety Harbor is a small community on Tampa Bay West side. Is is pretty close to Tampa/Clearwater/St Pete. We probably will take in some spring training of the Phillie's as #1 daughter is a Phillie Fanatic if ya ever saw one. She acts like she knows the players one & all. Stats, families, just everything about em. She is fun to watch a game with she yells and hollers and ya feel like you are actually at the game.

Well we moved some stuff, to get started with from our place in NJ. #1 daughter & I went by plane and Hubby & #4 grandson took the ole U-HAUL. God bless my hubby, I don't think I would have ventured with the four old on a trip with a U-haul so many miles! But in retrospect he said he was very good. It took them 2 days and they stayed overnight in a hotel somewhere in S.C. Knowing my hubby they prob would have made it in one day, but moving all the stuff into the truck wore him out!

We stayed with my good friend in Palm Harbor while we moved the stuff in. Thank God we have her & her family! Her place is a whole 4 1/2 miles from our place! Moving the stuff in was FUN! Packing/unpacking again! Especially with a four old a foot! I think I am getting good at this ole moving stuff now! Doesn't make it any easier though. Hope this will be the last move we make, except when we sell the house in NJ and get rid of those things.

I had to come on back to NJ and Hubby & #1 dau are planning on staying there until May sometime. I am gonna plan to go down monthly more or less.
So that's the move and I wonder why I am tired this week!

Danielisms

Just a short post am still getting over the move to Florida and the return to up north.

While driving back to MD from NJ, when Daniel saw the snow said-"when I get home I am gonna play out in the snow till the sun goes down". I had another idea since the thermometer read 20! FUNNY ONE DAY IN 70 DEGREE WEATHER AND THINKING OF SWIMMING AND 20 DEGREES THE NEXT.

What a blessing to see the kiddos all reunited- you can see the love they share! They got Danny a cake to welcome him home and he even had to have candles and them sing to him!

While driving around looking at the snow and ice, Daniel said " the ice is iceolating isn't it?" Can anyone explain that to me, but it sounded cute. Daughter said she thought it meant it was isolating.

This am he came to me and said "grandma can you get the quarter out of my underwear?' I looked all over and in and out of the undies and I couldn't find it. He laughed at me and stuck his hand in the little "pocket" boys undies have in them and pulled out three quarters- A new form of piggy bank I think!

IRONY?

Today just out of the blue my 4year old grandson came out of the living room where he was playing with his Pirate Ship and asked, "Granma-Where does CO2 come from?" I looked at my daughter and she looked at me, both incredulously shaking our heads. Just by what has been said today, etc where did he get this from! SO I answered the best I could and he demonstrated how we exhale CO2. Did I ever ask this kind of question when I was 4! I surely doubt it, but then I think with tv, videos, books etc they are bombarded with so mush more. That is one sure reason their tv etc should be monitored closely!

Then to the Irony part- I was looking at Treehugger.com and below is what I read! Go figure!

Today's Tip from Planet Green: Put your computer to sleep.Allowing your PC to get some shut-eye when it's not in use can chalk up significant environmental and financial savings. In the computer and models recently tested by Consumer Reports, putting your computer to sleep for 12 hours out of 24 would save about 576 pounds of carbon dioxide per year, or around $44 in dough. Turning off the computer would save even more, of course, although new PCs made within the last three years use very little energy in sleep/standby mode.Monitors and displays, on average, draw twice as much power as your CPU does when left on (yes, even with that flashy screen saver you stitched together from your vacation photos), so configure your power-management options to put your PC and monitor into sleep mode after a certain period of inactivity. Still, hitting the off button is your best bet-a couple of clicks is all it takes to do your part for the planet. ::More at Planet Green

Next he will be asking what a carbon marker or carbon footprint is! Fortunately, so far I have been able to come up with reasonable/reliable answers without having to look them up, but I know this won't last forever! My older grandson regularly has me looking online for something and we learn together!
and how is your day!

MEME

OK folks I have been tagged for this meme by a couple of folks now and it has taken me awhile to figure out how to do, and also time to figure out the 8 things. I am to write 8 random things about myself of which not much is known about me- I am pretty much an open book, so in this I found the difficulty. SO here goes

1. I am aiming at being a better person. That means kinder , more tolerant. I am also trying to be more Christ centered in all I do. They are some great challenges.

2. In my life I have wanted to be an opera singer, teacher, good mom & grandma, a good nurse, a great friend & wife.

3. I love to watch people- I can watch just about anywhere or time. People are just plain fascinating. Young , Old , in between. I love their interpersonal relationships, crying, laughing. The ones that think they are above any one else- I could go on forever. The best places to people watch are the mall & the beach, and of course restaurants. The one thing I hate when I watch is when I see an adult belittle a child-I just want to go up and smack them for the child!

4. I suffer from depression/seasonal affective disorder(I hope Floridian sun will help with that!)
It really is a PIA to have it. Most of the time I try and cover it up with humor, however sometimes it just plain overtakes me. I do take meds for it. Christmas/ this time of year are really bad for me. This Christmas was not that much fun emotionally for me although I did actually have a great time thru the tears of depression.

5. I am now in the buying jitters for the new place. We have the money etc, but can't help being nervous. Did we do the right thing, are we gonna be happy,when do I get to spend more time down there, when will we sell up north & the list could go on forever.

6. Although many folks think I am quite outgoing & personable- I find myself shy. Don't laugh guys. When I am with new folk it takes me awhile to open up before I can be the crazy mommajax most of ya know.

7. I love the beach- walking on it, lying on it, watching the waves the sunset, whatever. I love the smells, the breeze against my face. I even like ti during a storm with the waves crashing! O such beauty God has made for us to enjoy!

8. Lastly I had a pretty good Nursing career- didn't feel I "burned out" too much. Felt it was a good career choice- helped put kids thru college and paid the bills. Met some lifelong friends along the way. Helped some folks thru their bad & good times on Earth, delivered a baby, watched one die. Worked with housebound, in hospital, in nursing homes- in all had quite a varied experience. Have watched nursing go thru some real changes over the past 30 years from hand servant to well respected part of the medical community.

So there are my 8 for whatever they are worth, Now I challenge 8 others: Zelda, Merci, Pax, JT,
Craver, CHICKEN, Shoe, & Carol

Gifts/Cyrus

Cyrus, twin #2 & oldest grandson

Twin #1 & youngest grandson
youngest grandson
"looks like sking to me!"

For this Christmas we have a visitor we have loved for years! Cyrus, one of our past exchange students from Sweden came to visit. What fun he is, with a great sense of humor and generosity! He was born in the US, his father Iranian and mom Swedish! Now isn't that a mix of cultures! Always puts a different slant on things. He recently moved to Albuquerque NM to work and study there. In July he finished up his Masters degree and is working to get into one of 3 PHD programs(MIT,Hopkins & somewhere in California) I vote for Hopkins so he will be closer.

So far we have had Smorgastorta( sandwich cake thing-he made), Gloog( a drink) and had vegetarian dishes as he is vegetarian now. All were good eating & drinking.

For the kiddos' Christmas gift he wanted to give them them a trip to a ski slope, and to teach them to ski. In Pennsylvania about 2 1/2 hours from here in MD. Their mom didn't want them to go as she was afraid someone would get hurt (just a mommabear caring for her cubs). As you can see by the pics she finally relented and we all packed up and went. Of course he wanted all of us to gear up and ski, even our physically disabled daughter, but I said no to that one. I had been on ski's once in my life and that was enough for me. I did, however coax my daughter to let them go as it would be a great experience and he really wanted to do it.

He had them up on the bunny slope in no time at all. They seemed to really enjoy it. We had no actual mishaps, except the little guy who didn't like running into the fence one time. At one point in the day he took off ski's and poles ran all the way down the hill and said "I gotta go pee". When we saw him running down the hill we thought O NO he got hurt or something. Seemed like they all liked just sitting back on the ski's and sliding down the hill, and falling.

They would have skied forever I think. The little guy wanted to bring the ski's home and practise- even though we have no snow at present. They all chirped in "they wanted to go back again tomorrow".

Worst part of day was getting the right boots fitted for the skis & the drive back home-bumper to bumper. Best part of the day- having Cyrus accomplish what he set out to do & seeing my grandkids ski for the first time and laugh with cheers of glee!

Gratitude is born in hearts that take time to count up past mercies.
Charles E. Jefferson (1860 - 1937)

Cookie Party

I wrote this almost to the conclusion and somehow lost it in the blogosphere so here goes again

I was invited to a Cookie Party Exchange at a co-worker/friend home. I said that seems like fun!
I LOOKED OVER THE COOKIE RECIPES TO FIND ONE THAT WASN'T TOO DIFFICULT TO MAKE- THEY TOLD ME TO DO AN EASY ONE AS WE HAD TO MAKE 12 DOZEN- 1 TO TASTE TEST & THE OTHER 11 TO THE OTHER COOKIE MAKERS. they WERE ALSO JUDGED FOR ATTRACTIVENESS OF PACKAGING.


I settled on a Lemon Meltaway Cookie-not too hard, but was cooking at my daughters with a four yr old helping and the "new heater" installers about the house. At one time I thought to myself- how dumb am I? I can't even convert the recipe to make 12 dozen. It took me three days to complete this task. I even purchased 2 sets of 12 plates to package the cookies. The first set was too large to display only a dozen.

I have figured I need to get away from the children more? I even drove from Md to NJ to attend this event only to have to drive back to Md the next day to watch the kids. My daughter even had to find someone to cover for her until her ex would take the kids so I could get off earlier to get to NJ in time!

ALAS-the party was such fun! Great food to eat & drinks. And seeing some old friends from work I hadn't seen since retiring. AND conversing with someone closer to my age!

The cookies were judged from unbiased folk-no one had entered a cookie. Mine didn't win in the taste test or the packaging, but it well worth my efforts to attend.

Now I have twelve dozen cookies to share at the holidays, if of course we haven't devoured before then. In case you're wondering the cookie that won was a chocolate covered cracker with peanut butter thing-AND they are yummy! The packaging was won by a cookie that looked like coal in an old coal container.
We shall find peace. We shall hear the angels, we shall see the sky sparkling with diamonds.
Anton Chekhov (1860 - 1904), 1897

A Snapshot of 2007

Well folks we are starting to close down another year,
For me it has been quite a bear. Have been able to Blog- humm didn't think that possible for me. Many changes, distractions, etc so here goes:

I had major surgery on the second day of the year to fix a surgery just before Christmas, which ended up with a week in hospital ICU stay. As a result I have no belly button any longer. Never used it after I was born, but sometimes miss it.

Decided to stay in NJ after all and have made some modifications to the ole homestead. Probably will do more.

Went on a few vacations-Colorado, Florida a few times and to the Pocono's(Nursing School Reunion).

Have made more trips to Maryland than I would have wanted. Took the annual anniversary trip with the whole family, to the Dutch Country.

Retired from a 30 year Nursing career and took a job as NANNY for the grandchildren. That has been rewarding and also very tiring at times. Still Love the kiddos. I have been helped, by the children, see things thru the eyes of a child. Have given spankings and still get huggs & kisses every day! Didn't have chance to be stay at home mom with my kids, but am now doing it thru fire(sometimes). Have helped my daughter remodel her 80 year old home-LOTS OF WORK THERE!

Contracted the dreaded Lyme Disease, had all the symptoms even the bullseye rash, but took awhile to finally come the that diagnosis as was in Colorado when the fever, chills, muscle aches and pains started. Man what headaches & muscle tetany I had. Was glad when the antibiotic started and I got some relief. Also, did have to go thru 2 rounds of antibiotics. Am glad my doc listens to me! And tested me for it and also continued the antibiotics longer than he thought he should. I am feeling pretty good from that, but still get tired or is that old age? Aside from me rest of family have been pretty healthy-Thank GOD!

We got a kitten, Angel, left in our back yard. Nursed it till now seems like a healthy, growing and amusing cat of 6 months, that the grandchildren say is there's.

Am purchasing a place in Florida to be Snow Birds until the little one gets into school! I can't wait- it is almost brand new. Will have to furnish with new things., etc. Can't wait till we can move there full time as the ole bones need the warmer climate!

With retiring sure miss some of the friends at work. However the TRUE friends will continue to be with me wherever we go. I appreciate their kindness and faithfulness to an ole kook! I also have been quite blessed by my Nursing School buddies after all these years as we continue to be in my life!
AND finally I have a loving family & church family that get me thru these days. SO how was your year?
Life is just a mirror, and what you see out there, you must first see inside of you.
Wally 'Famous' Amos (1936 - )

D is for Danny

Been spending lots of time with #2 grandson of late, guess that's part of being nanny-granny.
The other day we had our trip to the local library where he goes to a book reading then plays on the computer. (any folk with small children should take em to the library-it's free, educational, and best of all keeps em outta your hair for a bit whilst you read or in my case do homework).
One problem with the library we go to is, they have a book drop outside which he is completely fascinated with. For some reason I can't get him to understand you are not supposed to put gifts of dried leaves & rocks into it. He likes to leave the librarian presents!

After library time we indulge at the local Mc'D's- this one is quite special as it has a gigantic playground indoors. He can eat his usual happy meal of chicken nuggets, french fries & ketchup. I have never seen one person like ketchup so much. My daughter even asked the doctor if it were a problem. She said does he eat other things don't worry about it, it is a phase he will grow out of. He is a little man eating his meal quietly and mannerly. Then he goes on the play equipment. By the time you leave there you have a wonderful headache as 1/2 the towns kids under 5 are there at lunchtime.
I was quite pleased with him the other day: another rug rat was continually pulling at his shirt around the neck, I said to myself ONO we are gonna have a problem-he is only gonna take that tugging for a certain amount of time and he is going to retaliate, but to my surprise he held his cool. I wouldn't have! I would have pushed back or something. Dan is a rough and tumble kid, but enough is enough. I can't believe the other kids momma didn't say anything, well she was engrossed in her conversation- the kid could have left Mc'D's and she wouldn't have known!
After all the play is finished we get ice cream- the happy meal comes with a free very small cone- I get that and he gets a sundae- the wait staff think it's funny. I really don't need the extra calories and he certainly works them off!

Today was the advent of our first snow here in the northeast- he was loving playing in it. Throwing snowballs at granny was quite humorous! We had to go get gloves & hat so he could play longer. I had one terrible time getting him in the house after he had played out there for quite awhile. It was almost dark. he was afraid the snow would be gone tomorrow. He kept saying he wasn't cold. He assured me the snow here in NJ was better than the snow at his mom's in MD.

O to be a kid again with all that wonderful energy & imagination! Plus not getting cold in the snow- doesn't get better than that!
Be gentle with the young.
Juvenal (55 AD - 127 AD)

The thing that impresses me the most about America is the way parents obey their children.
King Edward VIII (1894 - 1972)

Outings are so much more fun when we can savor them through the children's eyes.
Lawana Blackwell, The Courtship of the Vicar's Daughter, 1998

Cats in the Kitchen Kitten in the BR Sink-FFF

Here's Angel the cat, we rescued from the back yard. He is growing nicely, but I find him in the most unusual places! The bathroom sink @ my daughters is one place. Oh and he likes the toilet paper-he doesn't care which side it's put on-he loves to unroll it & make my daughter crazy! The kiddos think it is their cat and my hubby argues it is his!

Thanksgiving

I can remember as a child going to my grandparents home for Thanksgiving. We'd have turkey and all the fixings plus grannies chicken & dumplings. I would get my own chocolate pie. I don't know why I was given that distinction as Grannie had 10 children and lots of grandchildren. But I was given my own pie. I could share if I wanted but no-one but me could cut it for the first piece. She was an unbelievable woman my Grannie and we all knew it and were thankful for her.

As time passed and my parents became grandparents we started having the Thanksgiving at their place. My mom was a great cook, and did she ever like to cook. I would love to have a piece of her apple-walnut sour cream cake right now! Unfortunately, that recipe went with her to the grave.

Before the meal prayer was said and everyone took a turn saying what they were grateful for over the year. It was such a delightful time. Some would write down their thanks in a prayer or a poem. Some would say OK let's get to the eating part. We would always try and sit everyone at the same time, but that didn't always work. After the meal the women would do the dishes and the guys would watch football.

More time passes and I find myself maker of the annual Thanksgiving meal. What allot of work. We continued the part of everyone saying what they were thankful for and the prayer. I found myself doing much of the cleanup. Everyone else would watch TV or sleep. Then one day, I said I have had enough. I got myself and my nieces and nephews dressed and we went out back for a walk and looked for rocks. Every person had to get a favorite rock to bring back to their parent. That year we also searched high and low for my invisible dog. the kiddos still remember that year and we talk of it with much laughter. That was the last year I hosted the Thanksgiving meal. I passed the mantle to my younger brothers family.

That leads us to 2007- my hubby & older daughter decided to take a quick trip to Florida. To the warmth and a close family friends home. But alas, we didn't have the turkey meal, prayer or the saying of what we were thankful for. You see were in the air flying back to South Jersey as most of the folks in the United States were enjoying their meal. The funny part is I miss having turkey leftovers, pumpkin pie, mince meat pie & sweet potato pie. candied sweet potatoes, homemade cole slaw and fresh green beans cooked the way granny & mom did em. I missed my grand kids and little spats over who would sit where.

So- what am I thankful for! Family, friends, days past & present, health to enjoy it, A loving hubby, kids and grand kids & God who lets it all happen!

Commercials

I am one of those people who just turn off commercials mentally when they are on. Folks ask me did you see the commercial "xyz" and I just have no clue- I probably do some of my best thinking during commercials- after all ya have almost three minutes of them whenever they are on. It has to be really something for me to see.
Only two things are infinite, the universe and human stupidity, and I'm not sure about the former.
Albert Einstein (1879 - 1955)
To me they are plain stupid! Who on Earth needs to see a guy in a red wig advertise what? When one does catch my eye -I almost always have to ask someone-so what were they advertising? Maybe I am the stupid one-some I just don't get even when explained.
I am very grateful when the ones about the elections are over-they are relentless!
Genius may have its limitations, but stupidity is not thus handicapped.
Elbert Hubbard (1856 - 1915)
With all that said I do like some of them the first time-not the sixtieth time I have seen!
I am a visual person, and believe me I would never buy something just because it was advertised on tv. In fact, if the commercial is shown too much I may even say I will NOT buy that product. I may be in the minority on this one- I do not think the Geigo cave men commercials are cute-eek, I'd rather see the gecko!
One I do like and other bloggers have remarked on it the one with the little guys walking down the street in their own cute way with backpacks as big as they are- a dance like thing.

humble pie

Men occasionally stumble over the truth, but most of them pick themselves up and hurry off as if nothing ever happened.
Sir Winston Churchill (1874 - 1965)

Nothing puts me down more quickly than the first cold of the season! I can hardly get my head off the pillow! Want to sleep the day away. Get up to get something to drink & to eliminate and then I find myself back on the bed!
Thanks for medi-stops I was able to see a doc last evening-my doc is away & I couldn't be seen by one of the partners till who knows when!
With the antibiotic & cough med I am back in bed again!
Drove home from MD yesterday just to get to see a doc, making myself more tired!
I even fell asleep when I was talking on the phone with my grandson!
I get so darn guilty when I am the sick one-why is that? Just give in to it momma and get yourself back into bed-that's what you would tell everyone else to do.
see ya! in my dreams!

CHANGE

We all have big changes in our lives that are more or less a second chance.
Harrison Ford (1942 - ), quoted by Garry Jenkins in 'Harrison Ford: Imperfect Hero


TODAY MY #2 DAUGHTER IS HAVING LASIK SURGERY- SHE IS A BIT SCARED, BUT EXCITED AS WELL. SHE HAS WORN GLASSES SINCE SHE WAS 8 YEARS OLD. SHE PRETTY MUCH WEARS COKE BOTTLES NOW AND IS IN REALITY LEGALLY BLIND. IF SHE MISPLACES HER GLASSES SOMEONE HAS TO FIND THEM FOR HER. I EXPECT ALL TO GO WELL, SHE IS HAVING ONE OF THE FOREMOST SURGEONS IN THE COUNTRY DO IT. SHE HAS WAITED FOR QUITE AWHILE TO DO. I THOUGHT SHE SHOULD WAIT TILL THE PROCEDURE WAS PERFECTED. CAN'T WAIT TO SEE HER REACTION WHEN SHE GETS IT DONE LATER TODAY.I HAVE ALWAYS HAD GOOD EYESIGHT SO I CAN'T REALLY UNDERSTAND HER NOT BEING ABLE TO SEE AT SUCH AN EARLY AGE. HOWEVER AGE IS DEFINITELY CREEPING UP ON ME SO MUST WEAR FOR READING- WHAT A PIA. SO GOOD LUCK TO HER!

Just some tidbits

A few days ago I walked along the edge of the lake and was treated to the crunch and rustle of leaves with each step I made. The acoustics of this season are different and all sounds, no matter how hushed, are as crisp as autumn air.
Eric Sloane

If winter is slumber and spring is birth, and summer is life, then autumn rounds out to be reflection. It's a time of year when the leaves are down and the harvest is in and the perennials are gone. Mother Earth just closed up the drapes on another year and it's time to reflect on what's come before.
Mitchell Burgess, Northern Exposure, Thanksgiving, 1992

I guess I will never stop being a nurse, although retired. I still care for the human spirit & being, guess I am a terminal optimist! Sometimes I miss the touch of, helping through an illness of a perfect stranger. Friends and family still ask for my input about their specific problems, sometimes I feel like I am a mother to many.
Any way, while reading this am, on the net found this about E.Coli. This is a germ which causes diarrhea & abdominal pain & cramping/bloating- not much fun if ya have it.
Two recalls in food products:
Totino's/Jeno's Pizza of General Mills products
American Chef's Angus Beef Patties in Twin Cities from Sam's Club

I often wonder: how these products go through all the processing, etc. still come out infected?
What we can do to make our world more safe?
What we can do to get the word out more quickly about such problems? (the one about the Beef Patties was initially found in the summer and we are just now hearing about it-telling folks to check their freezers)

I presume we are better off than foreign countries without the checks and balances, but!

So be careful what you buy, cook adequately, to directions on the packages, wash hands frequently with warm soapy water AND hope for the best.