Greetings bloggers -- hope you are all enjoying this holiday period. I heard it is already 2010 in Australia -- Did all of you have a good time New Year's Eve?
There are just the two of us in our house tonight -- we aren't much for celebrating. Grandson is still around but is staying with his Mom while we prepare to go off with some friends for some fun and games. We took my Mom home yesterday and today she left with Brother and SIL for a 2 night trip to visit children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She was looking forward to the trip.
The new year ended with a crash for us -- I was walking past my china cabinet carrying a basket of laundry. I looked away and clipped the corner of the cabinet with the basket resulting in a terrible crash of china and crystal! Not the way I wanted to end my year but... it is only "stuff" after all, and much of it can be replaced. Sweetie came home early and helped me fish the pieces out from behind the sliding glass doors (which did not break.) We lost surprisingly little.
As we look forward to this new year, may I wish each and every one of you PEACE, LOVE, JOY, HEALTH, FRIENDS, FAMILY, AND A NEW APPRECIATION FOR ALL THAT YOU HOLD DEAR.
Thursday, December 31, 2009
Friday, December 25, 2009
MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL!!
Wherever you are around the world, we wish you a wonderful day! During this special season when we celebrate the birth of our Lord, Jesus Christ, may you hold his love in your heart!
We are celebrating with family and there are smiles on all our faces.
And for all of you, also, a Very Happy New Year. May the year, 2010, bring not the end of the world, but the beginning of another year of wonderful life.
From all of my family here in south Texas -- Peace be with you!
Wherever you are around the world, we wish you a wonderful day! During this special season when we celebrate the birth of our Lord, Jesus Christ, may you hold his love in your heart!
We are celebrating with family and there are smiles on all our faces.
And for all of you, also, a Very Happy New Year. May the year, 2010, bring not the end of the world, but the beginning of another year of wonderful life.
From all of my family here in south Texas -- Peace be with you!
Tuesday, December 22, 2009
I haven't been around for a while -- lots to do and the time is quickly draining away!!
We have Mom here and she has been enjoying the parties and church service. Yesterday a grandson flew in -- oh, my, he has gotten so talllllllll! He is 16 so there is a good possibility that he will grow even taller. He may be the tallest in the family when he reaches his full potential.
Mom, grandson, and I are going shopping this morning -- picking up a few more items to round out our Christmas. I need to sit down and make a list of ingredients needed for the meals, and I need to check it twice! I have my meals planned -- tonight we are having pot roast and will be 6 around the table. I will put the roast in the crock pot and let it cook while we are out shopping. What a wonderful invention!!
Wednesday I have planned stuffed poblano chilies. I cooked the chicken yesterday so that won't take long to prepare. Christmas Eve we will have Beef Enchilada Casserole -- a family favorite.
We are all excited about that -- we don't have it too often. Christmas Day we will have ham and our favorite trimmings. Oh, such good eats and me on a diet!! groan!
We have Mom here and she has been enjoying the parties and church service. Yesterday a grandson flew in -- oh, my, he has gotten so talllllllll! He is 16 so there is a good possibility that he will grow even taller. He may be the tallest in the family when he reaches his full potential.
Mom, grandson, and I are going shopping this morning -- picking up a few more items to round out our Christmas. I need to sit down and make a list of ingredients needed for the meals, and I need to check it twice! I have my meals planned -- tonight we are having pot roast and will be 6 around the table. I will put the roast in the crock pot and let it cook while we are out shopping. What a wonderful invention!!
Wednesday I have planned stuffed poblano chilies. I cooked the chicken yesterday so that won't take long to prepare. Christmas Eve we will have Beef Enchilada Casserole -- a family favorite.
We are all excited about that -- we don't have it too often. Christmas Day we will have ham and our favorite trimmings. Oh, such good eats and me on a diet!! groan!
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
Class day -- the last one in 2009. I asked the students if they wanted to do something special and they voted to bring snacks to the class.
I took cookies -- F, our only male in the class, brought Natilla, a sweet dish similar to a bread pudding. It is a Christmas treat in Columbia.
A, the new student, brought little cherry bites -- sweet cherries in crust.
The other A brought chocolate pudding with a cherry on top.
M, from Iran, went all out and brought a meat dish along with a flat bread, dipping sauce, and pickles. Evidently you put one of the meat croquettes on a piece of the bread, spread on some of the sauce, and eat it with pickles. It was very good. The other M, from Korea, brought rice cake a thick chewy dish with black beans and corn. It wasn't very sweet but tasted good. She also brought a beef and noodle dish with vegetables in it. I'm afraid I sampled everything.
We shared the food with the librarians -- some dropped by for a visit and the others were going to eat during their breaks. There was a lot of conversation going on during the eating time. I enjoyed seeing my students interact.
"I" came back -- she has had health problems and she had to go back to Mexico for some treatment. I was glad to see her. She was afraid that I had dropped her.
After we finished eating we had a lesson on George Washington -- They read a short story about him and we discussed the information -- A new word- surveyor. Our article mentioned that he was home schooled. I asked if people still home schooled and A, from France/Mexico, said no, not in today's world. That opened the discussion of my 4 home schooled grandchildren. They enjoyed hearing about them and how successful their schooling had been. I don't think any of them knew about homeschooling in the U.S.
After reading the article we did a brief quiz and they seemed to have a good grasp of what they read.
All in all it was a good class. It provided fellowship, sharing of food customs, pronounciation help, reading for content and comprehension, and some American history. Even though F was late, as usual, I was much happier with my class overall! (After class F told me that he had enjoyed the class and that he was very happy with me.)
I took cookies -- F, our only male in the class, brought Natilla, a sweet dish similar to a bread pudding. It is a Christmas treat in Columbia.
A, the new student, brought little cherry bites -- sweet cherries in crust.
The other A brought chocolate pudding with a cherry on top.
M, from Iran, went all out and brought a meat dish along with a flat bread, dipping sauce, and pickles. Evidently you put one of the meat croquettes on a piece of the bread, spread on some of the sauce, and eat it with pickles. It was very good. The other M, from Korea, brought rice cake a thick chewy dish with black beans and corn. It wasn't very sweet but tasted good. She also brought a beef and noodle dish with vegetables in it. I'm afraid I sampled everything.
We shared the food with the librarians -- some dropped by for a visit and the others were going to eat during their breaks. There was a lot of conversation going on during the eating time. I enjoyed seeing my students interact.
"I" came back -- she has had health problems and she had to go back to Mexico for some treatment. I was glad to see her. She was afraid that I had dropped her.
After we finished eating we had a lesson on George Washington -- They read a short story about him and we discussed the information -- A new word- surveyor. Our article mentioned that he was home schooled. I asked if people still home schooled and A, from France/Mexico, said no, not in today's world. That opened the discussion of my 4 home schooled grandchildren. They enjoyed hearing about them and how successful their schooling had been. I don't think any of them knew about homeschooling in the U.S.
After reading the article we did a brief quiz and they seemed to have a good grasp of what they read.
All in all it was a good class. It provided fellowship, sharing of food customs, pronounciation help, reading for content and comprehension, and some American history. Even though F was late, as usual, I was much happier with my class overall! (After class F told me that he had enjoyed the class and that he was very happy with me.)
Fall colors
We have been living here since 1996 and this is the most fall color that I have ever seen! We had just the right amount of cold weather to set the process in motion -- the leaves are just beautiful.
I took a few pictures around my neighborhood -- Hope you enjoy them!
I took a few pictures around my neighborhood -- Hope you enjoy them!
Friday, December 11, 2009
Sweetie and I have been out shopping -- we got quite a lot accomplished! He had some vacation time to burn so he is taking several Fridays off. This is nice but then it is hard to face Monday morning when he has to go back to work. Retirement is looking better and better! 3-1/2 months!
While I was at one store he went to visit his Harley -- it may be ready before Christmas. He has really missed riding.
Back when we had the snow and ice, one of my door handles broke off. We are having it repaired and it is costing over $150.00! That isn't a good thing right here at Christmas! Sweetie also had to replace two tires -- he had a flat back a week ago and that tire was shot and the spare wasn't good so he bought two new tires. It was raining when his tire went flat and he wasn't a happy camper!
Last night I went to a Ladies Ornament Exchange -- everyone took a wrapped Christmas ornament and we drew numbers, got to pick a bag and open it -- and then keep it , at least for a while, then... perhaps someone will steal it and then you have to open another one or steal someone else's. I ended up with an angel, which is now on my mantle along side her "sisters" who have been with me for several Christmases. (An earlier ornament was "stolen" from me.) We had loads of fun, talking and laughing and eating. This is a yearly tradition at my church and is much loved.
Earlier in the week, as I was putting a pan into the trunk of my car (the turtle, I think some of you call it, or the boot.) the trunk lid came down on me. It didn't hit me hard but I was caught with 1/2 of my body inside the trunk and 1/2 outside. I was parked on a steep incline so it was a bit difficult to wiggle out! I'm sure it look amusing from the street! Today we purchased the necessary parts and Sweetie put two new power lifts on my trunk lid. Hooray!
Oh, my, I just looked at my calendar and found that next week is my SIL's birthday. Drat! I always forget it!! Hummm, what can I do?
While I was at one store he went to visit his Harley -- it may be ready before Christmas. He has really missed riding.
Back when we had the snow and ice, one of my door handles broke off. We are having it repaired and it is costing over $150.00! That isn't a good thing right here at Christmas! Sweetie also had to replace two tires -- he had a flat back a week ago and that tire was shot and the spare wasn't good so he bought two new tires. It was raining when his tire went flat and he wasn't a happy camper!
Last night I went to a Ladies Ornament Exchange -- everyone took a wrapped Christmas ornament and we drew numbers, got to pick a bag and open it -- and then keep it , at least for a while, then... perhaps someone will steal it and then you have to open another one or steal someone else's. I ended up with an angel, which is now on my mantle along side her "sisters" who have been with me for several Christmases. (An earlier ornament was "stolen" from me.) We had loads of fun, talking and laughing and eating. This is a yearly tradition at my church and is much loved.
Earlier in the week, as I was putting a pan into the trunk of my car (the turtle, I think some of you call it, or the boot.) the trunk lid came down on me. It didn't hit me hard but I was caught with 1/2 of my body inside the trunk and 1/2 outside. I was parked on a steep incline so it was a bit difficult to wiggle out! I'm sure it look amusing from the street! Today we purchased the necessary parts and Sweetie put two new power lifts on my trunk lid. Hooray!
Oh, my, I just looked at my calendar and found that next week is my SIL's birthday. Drat! I always forget it!! Hummm, what can I do?
Wednesday, December 9, 2009
Tonight Sweetie and I went to a choir party. Part of the activities was a "White Elephant" gift exchange.
Do all of you know what that is?
We had a lot of fun opening the gifts or 'stealing' someone else's gift. I took a small basket that is meant to have a plant pot in it and a can of mulling spices. That was one "White Elephant." The second gift I took was a jar of dried beans meant for 15 bean soup. In the same bag was a set of colored marker stamps. I brought home a stuffed reindeer that sings "Blue Christmas" like Elvis would have done if he were drunk and suffering from a bad cold. Sweetie gave away his gift -- a set of woodworking books that a friend wanted.
Tomorrow night I will go to a party for ladies only. We will have an ornament exchange but it will be handled like the White Elephant exchange -- the more popular ornaments will be "stolen" until they are "frozen."
My quilting group had a party on Monday and we exchanged gifts of fat quarters, using the same format. Saturday evening we have still another party and another white elephant gift exchange.
All these parties are a challenge to my diet!
Do all of you know what that is?
We had a lot of fun opening the gifts or 'stealing' someone else's gift. I took a small basket that is meant to have a plant pot in it and a can of mulling spices. That was one "White Elephant." The second gift I took was a jar of dried beans meant for 15 bean soup. In the same bag was a set of colored marker stamps. I brought home a stuffed reindeer that sings "Blue Christmas" like Elvis would have done if he were drunk and suffering from a bad cold. Sweetie gave away his gift -- a set of woodworking books that a friend wanted.
Tomorrow night I will go to a party for ladies only. We will have an ornament exchange but it will be handled like the White Elephant exchange -- the more popular ornaments will be "stolen" until they are "frozen."
My quilting group had a party on Monday and we exchanged gifts of fat quarters, using the same format. Saturday evening we have still another party and another white elephant gift exchange.
All these parties are a challenge to my diet!
Our temperature up and down is still going on -- 70's one day and then 50's the next. A cold front is blowing through tonight. I have uncovered most all of the plants so I hope we do not get another freeze.
Today was class -- I was totally frustrated and told my students that I was. They learned that new word, frustrated! I was unhappy with students showing up late time after time, not doing the small assignments I give them for homework, and leaving during class to talk on the phone on a regular basis, and missing class without letting me know why. This is the worse class I have ever had as far as those things are concerned. I think they understood -- one girl got a call but she silenced her phone and did not leave the class.
We studied the long and short U words, and reviewed all of the vowel sounds. They asked for this study of vowel pronunciation but I am not sure they learned much of it. We also talked about Christmas -- the difference between religious and secular holidays and we discussed different holidays and determined which they were. We also looked at the holidays Christmas and Easter and determined what part of them was religious and what part was secular. Each told the class if Christmas was celebrated in their native country and if so, how.
One student, A, showed up with a friend who wanted to join the class. I allowed her to join because she will be an asset. She is fluent in French, almost fluent in Spanish and has a good command of English. She understood everything I said, which is good. Not all of my students understand everything I say. I do a lot of "face reading" to see if they are understanding. We made sentences and talked about the difference between "may" and "can." By the time the class was over I was feeling better about what we had accomplished.
Next week is our last class for 2009 -- we will have some treats. Then we will take a three week break.
Today was class -- I was totally frustrated and told my students that I was. They learned that new word, frustrated! I was unhappy with students showing up late time after time, not doing the small assignments I give them for homework, and leaving during class to talk on the phone on a regular basis, and missing class without letting me know why. This is the worse class I have ever had as far as those things are concerned. I think they understood -- one girl got a call but she silenced her phone and did not leave the class.
We studied the long and short U words, and reviewed all of the vowel sounds. They asked for this study of vowel pronunciation but I am not sure they learned much of it. We also talked about Christmas -- the difference between religious and secular holidays and we discussed different holidays and determined which they were. We also looked at the holidays Christmas and Easter and determined what part of them was religious and what part was secular. Each told the class if Christmas was celebrated in their native country and if so, how.
One student, A, showed up with a friend who wanted to join the class. I allowed her to join because she will be an asset. She is fluent in French, almost fluent in Spanish and has a good command of English. She understood everything I said, which is good. Not all of my students understand everything I say. I do a lot of "face reading" to see if they are understanding. We made sentences and talked about the difference between "may" and "can." By the time the class was over I was feeling better about what we had accomplished.
Next week is our last class for 2009 -- we will have some treats. Then we will take a three week break.
Monday, December 7, 2009
Our Christmas special "Drive-thru Life of Christ" was well attended last night. This is a three night event, normally, but we had to cancel Friday night due to icy road conditions. Saturday night it was very cold but we made it through the evening -- my position (as are many) was outside and I dressed in 4 layers of clothing. My body stayed warm but my hands nearly froze despite gloves.
Sunday night wasn't as cold but we had some wind and drizzle to put up with. The church rented some small tents and we had one over the table where we were working. I called our table the "Good-bye" table since we were handing out goodie bags to those who had just completed the drive around the scenes. We stayed dry most of the time -- when you go out and approach the leaving cars in the rain you are bound to get wet.
Sweetie, having just been sick, only took an inside position on Sat. night and then on Sunday he was singing the entire time. Choir, Praise Team, Quartet, etc.
On the way to the church Sweetie had a flat -- it took us a while to get it changed and him back on the road. He had to be there 2 hours before I did so I wasn't with him. He called and I went to help with then tire changing and then went back home for a while.
Today I have a quilting Christmas party and I'm really looking forward to that!
Take care of yourselves and stay warm and dry!
Sunday night wasn't as cold but we had some wind and drizzle to put up with. The church rented some small tents and we had one over the table where we were working. I called our table the "Good-bye" table since we were handing out goodie bags to those who had just completed the drive around the scenes. We stayed dry most of the time -- when you go out and approach the leaving cars in the rain you are bound to get wet.
Sweetie, having just been sick, only took an inside position on Sat. night and then on Sunday he was singing the entire time. Choir, Praise Team, Quartet, etc.
On the way to the church Sweetie had a flat -- it took us a while to get it changed and him back on the road. He had to be there 2 hours before I did so I wasn't with him. He called and I went to help with then tire changing and then went back home for a while.
Today I have a quilting Christmas party and I'm really looking forward to that!
Take care of yourselves and stay warm and dry!
Friday, December 4, 2009
A quick trip outside produced these images....
Our split-leaf philodendron -- we call this plant "The Elephant." One year it froze down to only one leaf -- then it came back. We have to cut 1/3 to 1/2 half of it out every year or we would not be able to walk around the corner of the house.
Our hisbicus in bloom -- this, of course, is a hibiscus -- a tropical or semi-tropical plant. It will not like the hard freeze that we are having tonight. It may get a blanket!
"Sassy" My car in the snow!
Our split-leaf philodendron -- we call this plant "The Elephant." One year it froze down to only one leaf -- then it came back. We have to cut 1/3 to 1/2 half of it out every year or we would not be able to walk around the corner of the house.
Our hisbicus in bloom -- this, of course, is a hibiscus -- a tropical or semi-tropical plant. It will not like the hard freeze that we are having tonight. It may get a blanket!
"Sassy" My car in the snow!
IT IS SNOWING IN KATY!
No, I'm not kidding -- snow is falling here on the gulf coast of Texas. It isn't sticking right now but the prediction is for 1 - 3 inches on the ground. A little early for a White Christmas, but it is lovely to look at. Schools are closing early, V's day care is closing early, Sweetie, who has been ill for the past two days, is getting off work early, church Christmas program is cancelled for tonight. I told Sweetie that we will light the fireplace and just be cozy today. Perhaps I will get my Christmas cards addressed, or some sewing done.
I was out shopping yesterday and enjoyed looking at the fall color that we are having. This area doesn't get much fall color because we don't usually have the weather that prompts the change in the colors of the leaves. However, this year we had an early cold spell and there is a good bit of color showing. I told my friend that I was going to get my camera and take some pictures to blog. Well, I didn't, and I'm afraid they may not survive the snow and 20 deg (F) weather. My hibiscus has nine blooms on it -- best it has ever looked! ...and it is snowing! Go figure!
No, I'm not kidding -- snow is falling here on the gulf coast of Texas. It isn't sticking right now but the prediction is for 1 - 3 inches on the ground. A little early for a White Christmas, but it is lovely to look at. Schools are closing early, V's day care is closing early, Sweetie, who has been ill for the past two days, is getting off work early, church Christmas program is cancelled for tonight. I told Sweetie that we will light the fireplace and just be cozy today. Perhaps I will get my Christmas cards addressed, or some sewing done.
I was out shopping yesterday and enjoyed looking at the fall color that we are having. This area doesn't get much fall color because we don't usually have the weather that prompts the change in the colors of the leaves. However, this year we had an early cold spell and there is a good bit of color showing. I told my friend that I was going to get my camera and take some pictures to blog. Well, I didn't, and I'm afraid they may not survive the snow and 20 deg (F) weather. My hibiscus has nine blooms on it -- best it has ever looked! ...and it is snowing! Go figure!
Thursday, November 26, 2009
THANKSGIVING
HAPPY THANKSGIVING to one and all! We have had a lovely day. Our daughter and two of her children joined us for a wonderful turkey dinner. In deference to the diet that Sweetie and I are following, we made some adjustments to our traditional meal. We left off the stuffing, dressing, and gravy. We did, however, have turkey, mashed potatoes, green beans, green peas, squash dressing (a vegetable dish) and Watergate salad. Pumpkin pie was dessert. It was a wonderful meal and I am happy to say that I did eat less food but I think I enjoyed it more.
After our meal we sent the guests home and everyone had a nap -- I think I slept 2 hours sitting upright in my most comfortable chair -- my usual nap is 15 or 20 minutes so I know I must have been tired. After our naps, Sweetie and I took a walk around the block -- we live on a long block and it is a little less than a mile around, but it felt good to be out together, just enjoying our day.
Nap time over our company came back and we played chicken foot until 9, pausing just long enough to eat a bite of supper.
We had several phone calls from kids and enjoyed visiting with our far-flung family. We talked to the youngest son who was at the DFW airport on his way to Tennessee; to our oldest son in California; to our oldest granddaughter who was in the mountains of New Mexico -- we put her on speaker phone and all got to chime in; to my Mom who was back at home after her time with my brother; and to a friend or two here in town. Isn't the telephone a marvelous invention. Before we had them people went for months, or even years, without hearing from family. Now we can carry our phones in our pockets and make contact no matter where we are. Wonderful!!
I hope all of you had a wonderful day -- even if you don't celebrate our Thanksgiving Day, I hope each and every one will pause and think about their blessings and say a word of thanks!
After our meal we sent the guests home and everyone had a nap -- I think I slept 2 hours sitting upright in my most comfortable chair -- my usual nap is 15 or 20 minutes so I know I must have been tired. After our naps, Sweetie and I took a walk around the block -- we live on a long block and it is a little less than a mile around, but it felt good to be out together, just enjoying our day.
Nap time over our company came back and we played chicken foot until 9, pausing just long enough to eat a bite of supper.
We had several phone calls from kids and enjoyed visiting with our far-flung family. We talked to the youngest son who was at the DFW airport on his way to Tennessee; to our oldest son in California; to our oldest granddaughter who was in the mountains of New Mexico -- we put her on speaker phone and all got to chime in; to my Mom who was back at home after her time with my brother; and to a friend or two here in town. Isn't the telephone a marvelous invention. Before we had them people went for months, or even years, without hearing from family. Now we can carry our phones in our pockets and make contact no matter where we are. Wonderful!!
I hope all of you had a wonderful day -- even if you don't celebrate our Thanksgiving Day, I hope each and every one will pause and think about their blessings and say a word of thanks!
Friday, November 20, 2009
Movie
Sweetie and I went to a movie this morning -- he was off so we took advantage of the early special. We saw "The Blind Side" with Sandra Bullock. It was a great movie! It made us laugh! I highly recommend it. No sex, no violence and almost no cursing. It is based on a true story.
If anyone goes to see it, let me know what you think.
If anyone goes to see it, let me know what you think.
Thursday, November 19, 2009
A second post for today!!
Class day yesterday -- 5 students. I need to check on "I" -- she has missed the past two classes. I hope she is not ill.
We continued our discussion of vowel sounds -- this week we were on long and short i. As we say the words we increase our vocabulary skills. The students were amazed at the pronunciation of the word choir. We looked at it in the dictionary and found that it is pronounced as if it starts with a kwi, instead of ch-oi. They learned what a kilt is, and that led to talking about bag pipes. We learned the word Swiss and found Switzerland on the map.
During our word discussions we touched on women's rights again -- the subject of domestic violence came up. One student told me that here, in this country, if a husband beats his wife he is arrested. In her country this is not true. Yes, some countries still haven't changed!
My students always want a rule to memorize to help with the pronunciation. I have told them that they just need to learn the words -- there would be so many rules that they would be bogged down with remembering them. I don't remember all the pronunciation rules -- do any of you? Perhaps the English/Language arts teachers, but maybe not many others.
I'm going to enjoy my holiday break from classes -- after we start back in Dec we will only have 3 more classes. We should be able to finish the vowels and then perhaps we will have a Christmas party!
It will be interesting to see how each family celebrates this holiday. How are YOU going to celebrate?
We continued our discussion of vowel sounds -- this week we were on long and short i. As we say the words we increase our vocabulary skills. The students were amazed at the pronunciation of the word choir. We looked at it in the dictionary and found that it is pronounced as if it starts with a kwi, instead of ch-oi. They learned what a kilt is, and that led to talking about bag pipes. We learned the word Swiss and found Switzerland on the map.
During our word discussions we touched on women's rights again -- the subject of domestic violence came up. One student told me that here, in this country, if a husband beats his wife he is arrested. In her country this is not true. Yes, some countries still haven't changed!
My students always want a rule to memorize to help with the pronunciation. I have told them that they just need to learn the words -- there would be so many rules that they would be bogged down with remembering them. I don't remember all the pronunciation rules -- do any of you? Perhaps the English/Language arts teachers, but maybe not many others.
I'm going to enjoy my holiday break from classes -- after we start back in Dec we will only have 3 more classes. We should be able to finish the vowels and then perhaps we will have a Christmas party!
It will be interesting to see how each family celebrates this holiday. How are YOU going to celebrate?
So much to be thankful for...
Here we are almost to Thanksgiving Day! Have you made your plans? Sweetie and I are dieting so we have planned a holiday dinner that fits into our diets, yet will leave us feeling like we enjoyed our holiday.
Isn't it funny how much of our celebrating revolves around food! So many different foods become linked with holidays and we are almost chained to the idea if we don't have this or that, well then, we just didn't have a good time.
What foods do your family find necessary for different holidays? I think everyone's answer may be different.
Thanksgiving is turkey for us. In the past we have had stuffing and dressing with our turkey -- this year we are skipping both of them. We will have the turkey and some vegetables, Watergate Salad, I'm sure, and pumpkin pie.
Christmas is often ham. Turkey can also be had for Christmas but I like a good ham -- not the spiral cut or the honey roasted kind -- just a plain ham baked in the oven. The ham is good to eat, and the ham hock is wonderful in beans.
When I moved to El Paso as a single parent, many years ago, my family picked up the tradition of having tamales for Christmas -- tamales and Mexican Grits Casserole were required on our Christmas Eve menu. Now that I live here I can't get the same type of tamales -- oh, I can buy them but they just don't taste the same. So, we probably won't have tamales or the casserole this year -- not on our diets! But, we will still eat some really good food!
What are you thankful for? Enough to eat? A place to live/sleep? A job? Health? Money to pay your bills? Friends? Family? A Savior who was willing to die for our sins? Like I said, we have so much to be thankful for!
What are you thankful for this holiday season?
Here we are almost to Thanksgiving Day! Have you made your plans? Sweetie and I are dieting so we have planned a holiday dinner that fits into our diets, yet will leave us feeling like we enjoyed our holiday.
Isn't it funny how much of our celebrating revolves around food! So many different foods become linked with holidays and we are almost chained to the idea if we don't have this or that, well then, we just didn't have a good time.
What foods do your family find necessary for different holidays? I think everyone's answer may be different.
Thanksgiving is turkey for us. In the past we have had stuffing and dressing with our turkey -- this year we are skipping both of them. We will have the turkey and some vegetables, Watergate Salad, I'm sure, and pumpkin pie.
Christmas is often ham. Turkey can also be had for Christmas but I like a good ham -- not the spiral cut or the honey roasted kind -- just a plain ham baked in the oven. The ham is good to eat, and the ham hock is wonderful in beans.
When I moved to El Paso as a single parent, many years ago, my family picked up the tradition of having tamales for Christmas -- tamales and Mexican Grits Casserole were required on our Christmas Eve menu. Now that I live here I can't get the same type of tamales -- oh, I can buy them but they just don't taste the same. So, we probably won't have tamales or the casserole this year -- not on our diets! But, we will still eat some really good food!
What are you thankful for? Enough to eat? A place to live/sleep? A job? Health? Money to pay your bills? Friends? Family? A Savior who was willing to die for our sins? Like I said, we have so much to be thankful for!
What are you thankful for this holiday season?
Monday, November 16, 2009
A New Movie
Sweetie and I were fortunate to attend an early pre-screening of a new movie entitled "Letters to God...a message of hope" This is the latest offering from the makers of "Facing the Giants" and "Fire Proof." It is a wonderful movie and will open in theaters April 9 and 10, 2010 -- the weekend after Easter. I heartily recommend that everyone see it, and that you invite friends and family to join you. And, I also recommend that you take tissues because it does make your eyes leak.
Thursday, November 12, 2009
Praise!
I am full of praise this morning -- last night my husband wrecked his Harley. No, that isn't why I am full of praise -- I am praising God because he only received minor injuries! He was wearing his full-face helmet and his jacket with body armor. His helmet is badly gouged -- on the side and directly in front. That would have been his head and his face without the helmet. From the looks of the jacket, he slid for a while, ending up under the car -- but the jacket and armor kept him from making contact with the asphalt. The jacket and helmet were expensive, but they certainly proved their value last night! He did receive a cut on his left knee that the paramedics cleaned and bandaged for him. He had several places where there were signs of having hit something. He didn't go to the hospital -- he went to work this morning, early, since he had some trouble sleeping.
The wreck wasn't his fault -- an impatient young woman pulled out in front of him. She was badly shaken (but not injured.) Her father rides a Harley so she said that made it much worse for her, thinking it could have been her Dad. She did have insurance so I guess everything will get fixed. We were able to pray with her and Sweetie gave her and the Sheriff copies of "Hope for the Highways" the Bible that CMA bikers carry.
PRAISE GOD FROM WHOM ALL BLESSINGS FLOW!
The wreck wasn't his fault -- an impatient young woman pulled out in front of him. She was badly shaken (but not injured.) Her father rides a Harley so she said that made it much worse for her, thinking it could have been her Dad. She did have insurance so I guess everything will get fixed. We were able to pray with her and Sweetie gave her and the Sheriff copies of "Hope for the Highways" the Bible that CMA bikers carry.
PRAISE GOD FROM WHOM ALL BLESSINGS FLOW!
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
fun ended
After having such a fun day with my new machine I had a really bad one! Somehow I got the end of the towel I was working on looped back and under the needle so that I did a lovely embroidery on two layers, totally encasing the hoop in the folded towel. Nothing to do but take it apart, cut the towel in half, and throw it away. I was ticked!! Decided to be cool .... turned the machine off and went downstairs and outside to sit in the sun and fresh air for a while. No sense in getting all hot and bothered! Mistakes/accidents do happen!
I survived!
Class today was ok -- only 3 students showed up and two were late and one got a phone call during class and left for 5 minutes. Very annoying!
We talked about long and short e, read a short story about Laura Ingles Wilder, looked through her books, and did a short exercise based on the story. Alphabetizing some of the new words,
matching words and definitions.
After that, and after they read their journals, we talked about some of the words that had been in the news this past week. Words like....half-mast....military base....lockdown.....friendly fire...shelter in place. (That last one didn't refer to Ft. Hood, but we hear it a lot around here when there is a chemical leak around one of the refineries. We also hear lockdown around here.)
They only vaguely knew about what happened at Ft. Hood last week. I guess if you don't speak the language well you miss a lot.
F was doing much better pronouncing the short a sound.
I survived!
Class today was ok -- only 3 students showed up and two were late and one got a phone call during class and left for 5 minutes. Very annoying!
We talked about long and short e, read a short story about Laura Ingles Wilder, looked through her books, and did a short exercise based on the story. Alphabetizing some of the new words,
matching words and definitions.
After that, and after they read their journals, we talked about some of the words that had been in the news this past week. Words like....half-mast....military base....lockdown.....friendly fire...shelter in place. (That last one didn't refer to Ft. Hood, but we hear it a lot around here when there is a chemical leak around one of the refineries. We also hear lockdown around here.)
They only vaguely knew about what happened at Ft. Hood last week. I guess if you don't speak the language well you miss a lot.
F was doing much better pronouncing the short a sound.
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
Such Fun!
Yesterday I had a good time with my embroidery machine! I've been wanting to try a project -- had all the materials -- just needed time. I took time yesterday and the pictures below show the results. These are cup towels (from Kroger) and I used my machine to put on the designs.
Each time I use my machine it is learning from scratch again, since I don't get to use it often.
However, I thought these turned out rather well and I plan to make some more today while I still remember all the steps!
Each time I use my machine it is learning from scratch again, since I don't get to use it often.
However, I thought these turned out rather well and I plan to make some more today while I still remember all the steps!
Monday, November 9, 2009
Hi, bet you didn't think you'd see me again so soon!
Saturday we had V visiting with us -- after breakfast we went shopping to prepare our "shoebox" gift for the Operation Christmas Child project. Do any of you do shoe boxes? It is a very worth-while project and we always enjoy doing it. V had a great time helping pick out the little gifts that went into our box. (We always use one of those plastic shoe boxes -- they can be used by the child and/or the family after the little gifts are removed.)
This year we chose a "recorder" (like a flute,) a hair brush, barrettes, colored pencils, school pencils, erasers, a ruler, a coloring book, a small doll, some candy, scissors, soap, hummmm, can't remember what else. I told my husband that I wasn't entirely happy about what I picked and he reminded me that I was judging it from my position of plenty but the child receiving it would be judging it from her position of little and she would be thrilled. I'm sure he is correct.
If you haven't done a shoe box, please consider participating. You can google Samaritan's Purse and click on Operation Christmas Child for information.
Saturday we had V visiting with us -- after breakfast we went shopping to prepare our "shoebox" gift for the Operation Christmas Child project. Do any of you do shoe boxes? It is a very worth-while project and we always enjoy doing it. V had a great time helping pick out the little gifts that went into our box. (We always use one of those plastic shoe boxes -- they can be used by the child and/or the family after the little gifts are removed.)
This year we chose a "recorder" (like a flute,) a hair brush, barrettes, colored pencils, school pencils, erasers, a ruler, a coloring book, a small doll, some candy, scissors, soap, hummmm, can't remember what else. I told my husband that I wasn't entirely happy about what I picked and he reminded me that I was judging it from my position of plenty but the child receiving it would be judging it from her position of little and she would be thrilled. I'm sure he is correct.
If you haven't done a shoe box, please consider participating. You can google Samaritan's Purse and click on Operation Christmas Child for information.
Good morning, world! It is cloudy this morning -- we had rain last night -- a rather soft, gentle rain -- just the kind I like! It means I don't have to water and more may be coming today. There is a hurricane coming toward the Gulf -- Ida -- and it should bring us more rain. Looks like Alabama and Florida will be the ones who get hit, however, but perhaps by then it will have weakened.
I have plans to sew some this morning -- I had been wondering how to do something on my embroidery machine and a couple of weeks ago Sewing with Nancy had a lesson on that very thing. So, I took my birthday gift card (thanks daughter) and went to Hancocks and got just the thing I needed. Today I'm going to make one item -- at least one -- to see just how it works.
Change of subject: Sweetie and I have thrown in the towel, weight wise, and I've joined Weight Watchers. I went there more than 30 years ago and I know it works. Now they are on a "point" system, much easier than before, and it is very do-able. It is a healthy life style if one can just stay with it! So far, we are doing well. Uhhhhh.....well, actually, we are learning things about our food choices, and some of them are surprising and distressing. Yesterday really made us think! It was only day 3 and we were faced with a real-life situation. Made a choice that seemed good but wow, it really "cost" us a bunch of our food points. Made us think about things. But, the scale was happy this morning, so we will just plod on!
Back on sewing, a while back I posted a picture of some fabric I had been given and said I was finally going to make a quilt for US. I believe I said it would probably be a star block. Well, the more I look at Pat's disappearing 9-patch (I think that is the right name) the more I like it. I believe it will lend itself to the fabric I have, and I've about decided to use that pattern. Thanks, Pat, you inspired me!
Do you guys know that Christmas is coming! It really is, and I have much, much to do to get ready. Right now Thanksgiving is just around the corner -- my Mom is going to come and visit for a couple of weeks so we will have her and W and V. It will be interesting to see how we manage our diets during that time.
Last week we paid to have our front tree (a Live Oak) pruned. It looks wonderful! Then the power company paid to prune our back trees (Chinese Elm, Water Oak, Red Oak, Crepe Myrtle)
and they were butchered. But, we can't do anything about it -- they were planted under the elect lines long before we moved here and have since grown up into the lines. we don't like being without power during storms so letting them be cut is the only option. Everyone has a utility easement in our back yards and the utility company can come and cut anytime they want to. :-(
I seem to have skipped about this morning -- from subject to subject. Guess my mind isn't organized. Either that, or I lost it! LOL
Take care all, and drop by for a visit if you can.
I have plans to sew some this morning -- I had been wondering how to do something on my embroidery machine and a couple of weeks ago Sewing with Nancy had a lesson on that very thing. So, I took my birthday gift card (thanks daughter) and went to Hancocks and got just the thing I needed. Today I'm going to make one item -- at least one -- to see just how it works.
Change of subject: Sweetie and I have thrown in the towel, weight wise, and I've joined Weight Watchers. I went there more than 30 years ago and I know it works. Now they are on a "point" system, much easier than before, and it is very do-able. It is a healthy life style if one can just stay with it! So far, we are doing well. Uhhhhh.....well, actually, we are learning things about our food choices, and some of them are surprising and distressing. Yesterday really made us think! It was only day 3 and we were faced with a real-life situation. Made a choice that seemed good but wow, it really "cost" us a bunch of our food points. Made us think about things. But, the scale was happy this morning, so we will just plod on!
Back on sewing, a while back I posted a picture of some fabric I had been given and said I was finally going to make a quilt for US. I believe I said it would probably be a star block. Well, the more I look at Pat's disappearing 9-patch (I think that is the right name) the more I like it. I believe it will lend itself to the fabric I have, and I've about decided to use that pattern. Thanks, Pat, you inspired me!
Do you guys know that Christmas is coming! It really is, and I have much, much to do to get ready. Right now Thanksgiving is just around the corner -- my Mom is going to come and visit for a couple of weeks so we will have her and W and V. It will be interesting to see how we manage our diets during that time.
Last week we paid to have our front tree (a Live Oak) pruned. It looks wonderful! Then the power company paid to prune our back trees (Chinese Elm, Water Oak, Red Oak, Crepe Myrtle)
and they were butchered. But, we can't do anything about it -- they were planted under the elect lines long before we moved here and have since grown up into the lines. we don't like being without power during storms so letting them be cut is the only option. Everyone has a utility easement in our back yards and the utility company can come and cut anytime they want to. :-(
I seem to have skipped about this morning -- from subject to subject. Guess my mind isn't organized. Either that, or I lost it! LOL
Take care all, and drop by for a visit if you can.
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
Class day -- we had a good class. At first it was just me and 3 of the ladies and we talked about coloring our hair -- at home vs salon. Interesting.
The students have asked for lessons on pronunciation, especially of vowels. So, today we did short a and long a. F pronounces short a like short o so hat comes out hot and rat sounds like rot. We worked very hard on the short a sound -- like sheep -- baaaaaaa.
We reviewed capitalization rules and talked about the titles Miss, Mrs, Mr, Ms. They were interested in that. Next week I am going to give them a little quiz on capitalization - I don't test very often but I need to see where they are so I will know where to go next.
We are having lovely weather! Cool nights and mid 70's (F) during the day. Love it!!
The students have asked for lessons on pronunciation, especially of vowels. So, today we did short a and long a. F pronounces short a like short o so hat comes out hot and rat sounds like rot. We worked very hard on the short a sound -- like sheep -- baaaaaaa.
We reviewed capitalization rules and talked about the titles Miss, Mrs, Mr, Ms. They were interested in that. Next week I am going to give them a little quiz on capitalization - I don't test very often but I need to see where they are so I will know where to go next.
We are having lovely weather! Cool nights and mid 70's (F) during the day. Love it!!
Tuesday, November 3, 2009
Went to quilting yesterday -- it was suggested that we might have a low turn-out but as it happened, we had a big crowd. We have three new members -- one is a young woman and it delights the older bunch to see someone young interested in learning about quilting.
I admit that I have made baby quilts until I'm very tired of them so I worked on other projects.
I'm making some Christmas gifts and some have turned out great and others I don't like.
Everything I'm doing involved quilting. though, so I'm staying with the spirit of the group.
I signed up for Pay It Forward and now I'm feeling inadequate. I see what other people do when they send their gifts and I am absolutely sure that my offering will not be nearly as nice. Do you ever feel that way? Worried that you are not measuring up? I guess it is just part of my nature.
Oh, well, guess I better get off the computer and get busy -- if I am going to sew I need to just do it!
I admit that I have made baby quilts until I'm very tired of them so I worked on other projects.
I'm making some Christmas gifts and some have turned out great and others I don't like.
Everything I'm doing involved quilting. though, so I'm staying with the spirit of the group.
I signed up for Pay It Forward and now I'm feeling inadequate. I see what other people do when they send their gifts and I am absolutely sure that my offering will not be nearly as nice. Do you ever feel that way? Worried that you are not measuring up? I guess it is just part of my nature.
Oh, well, guess I better get off the computer and get busy -- if I am going to sew I need to just do it!
Monday, November 2, 2009
Halloween has come and gone -- we had quite a lot of kids this year -- I bought extra candy but still ran out before 8:30 pm. The kids seemed to be having lots of fun. Some years we have a few older kids as it gets later but this year we didn't -- either they didn't come or we ran out of candy too soon. Had several babies this year -- really didn't plan on candy that anyone under 2 years could eat -- so I just gave them tiny Tootsie Pops. It was for their parents, of course, a baby that young wouldn't get the point at all. Perhaps my neighborhood it changing -- fewer older kids and more young ones.
V came over and helped hand out the candy after she made her rounds. Quite a few of the kids who came to the door knew her from school so she had fun giving out the candy. She and her Mom had jack-o-lantern tee shirts and black pants. They looked cute!
I'm curious -- Doug mentioned trick or treaters at his door. What other countries follow this tradition on Oct 31? Let me hear from you!
V came over and helped hand out the candy after she made her rounds. Quite a few of the kids who came to the door knew her from school so she had fun giving out the candy. She and her Mom had jack-o-lantern tee shirts and black pants. They looked cute!
I'm curious -- Doug mentioned trick or treaters at his door. What other countries follow this tradition on Oct 31? Let me hear from you!
Sunday, November 1, 2009
Home Again, final
The purpose of the CMA Rally known as "Colors" is to worship and to fellowship. There is a huge building on the grounds, known as the Pavilion, that is used for worship services, classes, dining, offices, a "Goodie Store" and for displays of information about different events. The picture below was taken during one of the Praise and Worship sessions. They were really awesome -- wonderful music and messages.
A motorcycle on display in the Pavilion that has special paint decorations that focus on the main purpose. A frequently used motto is,,, "It's All About Jesus!"
Run for the Son is the main fund raising event that CMA sponsors and some of the the monies raised go to a group that provides transportation for pastors in remote areas who have no other means of transportation. They might provide a bicycle, a moped, a dirt bike, or a full blown motorcycle, depending on the situation. Another part provides the Jesus movie for pastors in mission settings. During the day I worked at the "Run for the Son" table, handing out the information packets that had been ordered by chapters all over the US. Every one we handed out saved us postage! I really enjoyed getting to meet the different CMA members as they came to pick up their packets.
A motorcycle on display in the Pavilion that has special paint decorations that focus on the main purpose. A frequently used motto is,,, "It's All About Jesus!"
Run for the Son is the main fund raising event that CMA sponsors and some of the the monies raised go to a group that provides transportation for pastors in remote areas who have no other means of transportation. They might provide a bicycle, a moped, a dirt bike, or a full blown motorcycle, depending on the situation. Another part provides the Jesus movie for pastors in mission settings. During the day I worked at the "Run for the Son" table, handing out the information packets that had been ordered by chapters all over the US. Every one we handed out saved us postage! I really enjoyed getting to meet the different CMA members as they came to pick up their packets...............As soon as we were camped some friends dropped by for a visit. This couple travel/live full time in a 5th wheel camping trailer pulled by a pickup, and pull their bike with side car in a trailer. The little dog goes with them -- in fact, many of the attendees brought their pets.
This is our group after lunch in Hatfield, AR.
There were many, many interesting bikes at the rally -- I thought this motorcycle was especially interesting -- yes, that is a motorcycle!
Across the road from our camp was an area where lots of bikes were parked, including 4 from our group.
Leaving the restroom, looking north, was another section of the campground. As you can see, we were really full!
On Friday, during the morning session, we received the news that friends had arrived but had been in an accident and were being taken to the hospital by ambulance. We immediately went to the hospital in Mena and found that our friend, J, had fallen while getting off her husband's bike, and had broken her arm. About 14 of us were there, praying for her healing, and asking for support for her husband, T. While we were there we also prayed with the husband of a couple that had been involved in a wreck -- the husband was on crutches and the wife had surgery to remove her spleen. A third CMA member arrived, in a wheel chair, for x-rays. More prayers!
This is our group after lunch in Hatfield, AR.
There were many, many interesting bikes at the rally -- I thought this motorcycle was especially interesting -- yes, that is a motorcycle!
Across the road from our camp was an area where lots of bikes were parked, including 4 from our group.
Leaving the restroom, looking north, was another section of the campground. As you can see, we were really full!
On Friday, during the morning session, we received the news that friends had arrived but had been in an accident and were being taken to the hospital by ambulance. We immediately went to the hospital in Mena and found that our friend, J, had fallen while getting off her husband's bike, and had broken her arm. About 14 of us were there, praying for her healing, and asking for support for her husband, T. While we were there we also prayed with the husband of a couple that had been involved in a wreck -- the husband was on crutches and the wife had surgery to remove her spleen. A third CMA member arrived, in a wheel chair, for x-rays. More prayers!Our friend, J, had to be taken to Hot Springs, by ambulance. Several of us drove up there on Saturday morning and were with her husband and her parents during her surgery. When the surgeon came out of the operating room to give a report, he found that there were 20 people there for J, waiting for the news.
Praise God, the operation was successful and she is expected to make a full recovery!
Praise God, the operation was successful and she is expected to make a full recovery!
There were many, many other things I could tell but...I think I'll finish the report with this.
It was a great experience, and one that I won't soon forget. Plans are already being made to attend next year's rally!
Friday, October 30, 2009
Rain, Rain, more rain
Wednesday was class day -- everyone attended and I picked up a new student from Colombia.
She's only been in US for 2 months but is doing well. We worked on vocabulary and pronunciation the entire class period. The most frequent comment I hear is . . "It's hard!" Yes, I know it is hard to learn another language, but practice, practice, practice is so important.
After class it was a trip to the dentist that took up my afternoon -- I had a bad crown that was worn through and needed to be replaced. I have the temp on now and will get the new crown Nov 18. Such fun!
Thursday was house cleaning -- I started off doing some grocery shopping. I managed to get home and have my groceries unloaded before the rain started. It rained off and on all afternoon so I just stayed in and cleaned. Sweetie and I were going out to Olive Garden for dinner but the rain was just too heavy to make it safe so we turned around and went back home. We had soup for our dinner. Tonight we are having stuffed Poblano Chilies -- I've already cooked the chicken and have cut up the part I'm using tonight. I have enough chicken cooked to also make Quesadillas, perhaps for Sunday lunch.
I still need to blog some about the camping trip but don't have time right now. More cleaning to do! Take care, all, and have a great weekend. I'm going to sew!
She's only been in US for 2 months but is doing well. We worked on vocabulary and pronunciation the entire class period. The most frequent comment I hear is . . "It's hard!" Yes, I know it is hard to learn another language, but practice, practice, practice is so important.
After class it was a trip to the dentist that took up my afternoon -- I had a bad crown that was worn through and needed to be replaced. I have the temp on now and will get the new crown Nov 18. Such fun!
Thursday was house cleaning -- I started off doing some grocery shopping. I managed to get home and have my groceries unloaded before the rain started. It rained off and on all afternoon so I just stayed in and cleaned. Sweetie and I were going out to Olive Garden for dinner but the rain was just too heavy to make it safe so we turned around and went back home. We had soup for our dinner. Tonight we are having stuffed Poblano Chilies -- I've already cooked the chicken and have cut up the part I'm using tonight. I have enough chicken cooked to also make Quesadillas, perhaps for Sunday lunch.
I still need to blog some about the camping trip but don't have time right now. More cleaning to do! Take care, all, and have a great weekend. I'm going to sew!
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
Home Again, part four
Monday morning we ate breakfast and then decided to take a ride/drive up into the mountains. Our destination . . . Queen Wilhemina State Park. The boys rode their bikes, but L and I rode in my car. It was a bit cool outside but a really beautiful day. We stopped at the park entrance and bought postcards, then we continued up the mountain, stopping here and there to look at the fall colors and the beautiful vistas.
At the top we saw the beautiful Queen Wilhemina Lodge -- this is about the 4th building that has stood on this spot since the original building was built in the 1890's and named for the new Queen of the Netherlands, who was crowned in 1898. The lodge contains guest rooms, a gift shop, and a dining room which features a popular buffet.
The foyer of the Queen Wilhemina Lodge, featuring a native stone fireplace.
There are wonderful views from the front of the lodge.
A miniature train provides rides at times but it was not running while we were there. Later we read that they were featuring a Halloween ride that was supposed to be scary. Too bad we couldn't be there for that!
At the top we saw the beautiful Queen Wilhemina Lodge -- this is about the 4th building that has stood on this spot since the original building was built in the 1890's and named for the new Queen of the Netherlands, who was crowned in 1898. The lodge contains guest rooms, a gift shop, and a dining room which features a popular buffet.
The foyer of the Queen Wilhemina Lodge, featuring a native stone fireplace.
There are wonderful views from the front of the lodge.
A miniature train provides rides at times but it was not running while we were there. Later we read that they were featuring a Halloween ride that was supposed to be scary. Too bad we couldn't be there for that!Back at camp two more of our group arrived and set up their tents. We fixed the last pre-planned evening meal -- minute steaks, rice, and green beans. Tuesday morning we fixed breakfast for all (oatmeal with raisins) and then I announced that everyone was on their own for future meals -- my kitchen was closed! (Once the rally opened the dining room was available for meals, or we could go into town to eat.)
Home Again, Part three
After arriving, we found a relatively flat place and set up camp. We are the brown tent in the middle -- a Coleman canvas tent made in 1974 -- M is on the right and M & L are in the "Bunkhouse" trailer tent on the left. Later, the area where I'm standing was full of tents and this view wasn't possible.
Our first night went really well. I had planned a quick dinner for arrival night -- soup that I made beforehand and froze. After eating we sat around the fire and visited before turning in for the night.
Sunday morning we ate breakfast and then went to church. We chose a small church named Lake Side Missionary Baptist Church, in Mena, and went to the 11 am service. We were all dressed in our denims, matching chapter shirts, and vests (the vests were covered in our patches and pins, and had the "colors" on the back.) The people of the little church made us very welcome -- such a friendly group!
Sunday was my Sweetie's 65th birthday and Saturday had been M's 50th birthday so L and I planned a special meal. We went to La Villa Mexican Cafe and were joined there by 6 of our friends who had also arrived early. The 6 friends actually brought a surprise birthday party with them -- cake, balloons, candles, etc. It was a fun event!
The birthday boys are pictured below! (In this picture they are dressed as they were for church Sunday morning.)
Our first night went really well. I had planned a quick dinner for arrival night -- soup that I made beforehand and froze. After eating we sat around the fire and visited before turning in for the night.Sunday morning we ate breakfast and then went to church. We chose a small church named Lake Side Missionary Baptist Church, in Mena, and went to the 11 am service. We were all dressed in our denims, matching chapter shirts, and vests (the vests were covered in our patches and pins, and had the "colors" on the back.) The people of the little church made us very welcome -- such a friendly group!
Sunday was my Sweetie's 65th birthday and Saturday had been M's 50th birthday so L and I planned a special meal. We went to La Villa Mexican Cafe and were joined there by 6 of our friends who had also arrived early. The 6 friends actually brought a surprise birthday party with them -- cake, balloons, candles, etc. It was a fun event!
The birthday boys are pictured below! (In this picture they are dressed as they were for church Sunday morning.)
Home Again, part two.
The little town of Mena was about 8 - 10 miles away, along a lovely winding road.
We made the trip often -- one visit a day to Walmart seems to be a tradition!
The old Mena depot is an interesting building -- the train goes through every day but I don't think it stops in Mena anymore. The depot is used for offices and, I think, a museum.
An old police car can be seen at one end. Remember when police cars looked like this one?
We made the trip often -- one visit a day to Walmart seems to be a tradition!The old Mena depot is an interesting building -- the train goes through every day but I don't think it stops in Mena anymore. The depot is used for offices and, I think, a museum.
An old police car can be seen at one end. Remember when police cars looked like this one?
Home Again, part one
Sweetie and I are home again -- we were away for about 9 days, attending the "Changing of the Colors" annual rally of the Christian Motorcyclists Association. (CMA) This was my first year to attend and I admit I had some reservations. First of all, I don't ride motorcycles. Second, we were going to camp out for 8 days & nights and that takes a lot of planning and "stuff." I just couldn't figure out what I was going to be doing all that time while the others were on bikes.
I'm happy to say that it all worked out! "Colors," as the rally is called, was a really wonderful event and I enjoyed just about every minute. Oh, there were time when I did wish that I was somewhere else -- like at 4:30 am when I needed to go to the restroom and it was 1/2 block (uphill) away. Or when it was raining -- all evening, all night, all morning, and my tent was getting wetter and wetter! But, we actually had a minimum of problems, and I believe the rewards far outweighed the downside.
This event was held at IRON MOUNTAIN -- a place owned by CMA, in the Ouachita (pronounced Wash-a-taw) National Forest, in the state of Arkansas. It was beautiful in this hardwood forest -- the leaves were beginning to change colors. Most of my camping experience has been in pine forests so this was a new experience. There were many, many oak trees and also some that we were told were hickory trees. When the wind blew the acorns and hickory nuts would rain down on us. I'm told the hickory nuts hurt when they hit you but they always missed me. The acorns were too small to be a bother, however, except they often landed where they weren't wanted, like in your cup of hot chocolate!
Monday, October 26, 2009
Rain, Rain, Rain
Oh, am I repeating myself? We arrived home last evening -- clear sailing all the way. Started raining here sometimes during the night. I was sleeping snug in my real bed and it didn't bother me at all. Still raining, however, and roads, and especially intersections, are flooded. Supposed to be this way all day -- we got out in the truck and went grocery shopping. The people in the store were pathetically happy to see customers -- I think we were the only ones in the store!
Thursday, October 22, 2009
Rain, Rain, Rain!
Started raining last night -- 7 pm (in Arkansas)
Still raining
got some water in tent
Went to Walmart at 5:30 am for tarp -- spread it on the top
That will help
Otherwise, enjoying the fun and fellowship and fall colors!
Wonderful service last night -- over 2,000 people! Great music, three alter calls with heavy response -- lots of renewal going on. Praise God -- this is a blessing.
Still raining
got some water in tent
Went to Walmart at 5:30 am for tarp -- spread it on the top
That will help
Otherwise, enjoying the fun and fellowship and fall colors!
Wonderful service last night -- over 2,000 people! Great music, three alter calls with heavy response -- lots of renewal going on. Praise God -- this is a blessing.
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
Sleeping on an airbed in a tent -- temp 34 deg -- Sweetie got a bit cold! Second night we had an elect blanket -- slept 9 hours, warm as bugs in a rug!
The trees are turning and we are having a great time -- Celebrated Sweetie's b'day -- friends surprised him with cake, balloons, etc.
Having a wonderful time!
The trees are turning and we are having a great time -- Celebrated Sweetie's b'day -- friends surprised him with cake, balloons, etc.
Having a wonderful time!
Friday, October 16, 2009
Greetings from cool Katy! It is a lovely 66 deg F this morning, with a little breeze. The "cold" front arrived during the night and we will have some lovely weather for a while. Sweetie and I are planning some fun events for the next few days so I may not have much time to post. We'll see -- we will have a laptop to use if time and circumstances allow.
Yesterday I attended the Houston International Quilt Show! It was great, but oh, so tiring. My feet felt really happy to be home after it was over!! We saw some lovely quilts and pictures of some of them are already uploaded to the computer, but I don't have time to blog them so you quilters will have to wait a few days to see them. There was a lovely exhibit from Russia and I really enjoyed seeing their colorful quilts. I saw Alex Anderson and Eleanor Burns -- they are almost always there. Didn't see Fons and Porter this year, but they may have been there. Since I only had one day to attend this year's show I probably missed some things.
Take care, everyone, and send me lots of comments and e-mails. I love hearing from all of you!
Yesterday I attended the Houston International Quilt Show! It was great, but oh, so tiring. My feet felt really happy to be home after it was over!! We saw some lovely quilts and pictures of some of them are already uploaded to the computer, but I don't have time to blog them so you quilters will have to wait a few days to see them. There was a lovely exhibit from Russia and I really enjoyed seeing their colorful quilts. I saw Alex Anderson and Eleanor Burns -- they are almost always there. Didn't see Fons and Porter this year, but they may have been there. Since I only had one day to attend this year's show I probably missed some things.
Take care, everyone, and send me lots of comments and e-mails. I love hearing from all of you!
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
Another class day. We had a full room -- M, my former student from Iran, returned. She had been back in her native country for the past 4 month and only returned the end of last week. Today she came bearing gifts -- a box of chocolates to share with the class, and from Iran a pound of walnuts and a pair of shoes for me. The shoes are sandals and they fit! She says they are very comfortable and I know she wears hers when she is taking a walk. I've received many gifts through the years but it was a first to receive shoes. However, I know she is proud of her country so I accepted her gift graciously.
---After class my Korean student asked if she could take me to lunch -- to a place of my choosing. We went to a place she didn't know about and she was delighted with the food and prices and thanked me for telling her about it. We had a nice visit during lunch -- got off on the subject of quilting, and I believe she will start coming to The King's Quilters in November. She said she had bought herself a machine but she didn't know how to use it. I told her, just bring it along and I'll teach you. She is excited.
------Today we studied the structure of sentences. We started with one subject (noun) and one verb and built from there. It is hard, especially for my Spanish speakers, to get the noun/adjective order the English way, so while we added words to our basic sentence we were able to practice putting them in the right order. I was very pleased with their journals today -- they were much better than last week as far as sentence structure was concerned. F finally brought his homework and he is very good! I made a few corrections but, basically, he did a good job. Well, actually they all did.
---------We also studied capitalization. I gave them 7 rules and then we read sentences, underlined the capitalized words, and gave the number of the rule that applied. Most of them were right in step. I gave them a few sentences to bring to the next class. I didn't read the directions to them beforehand -- I want to see if they do the right thing.
------------F asked for a special class on the pronunciation of English vowels. Many of my students have studied English in their native countries and already do a good job pronouncing English words. However, I don't mind scheduling such a class somewhere in the future.
----------------M unknowingly fell into the theme of our previous writing on colors by describing a wedding she attended in Iran. The bride had two dresses (the wedding lasted 2 days) -- one was white and one was red. The students found that interesting.
Well, it is warm and it isn't raining so I'm going out a little later to mow the grass. It has really grown in all the rain we've had.
---After class my Korean student asked if she could take me to lunch -- to a place of my choosing. We went to a place she didn't know about and she was delighted with the food and prices and thanked me for telling her about it. We had a nice visit during lunch -- got off on the subject of quilting, and I believe she will start coming to The King's Quilters in November. She said she had bought herself a machine but she didn't know how to use it. I told her, just bring it along and I'll teach you. She is excited.
------Today we studied the structure of sentences. We started with one subject (noun) and one verb and built from there. It is hard, especially for my Spanish speakers, to get the noun/adjective order the English way, so while we added words to our basic sentence we were able to practice putting them in the right order. I was very pleased with their journals today -- they were much better than last week as far as sentence structure was concerned. F finally brought his homework and he is very good! I made a few corrections but, basically, he did a good job. Well, actually they all did.
---------We also studied capitalization. I gave them 7 rules and then we read sentences, underlined the capitalized words, and gave the number of the rule that applied. Most of them were right in step. I gave them a few sentences to bring to the next class. I didn't read the directions to them beforehand -- I want to see if they do the right thing.
------------F asked for a special class on the pronunciation of English vowels. Many of my students have studied English in their native countries and already do a good job pronouncing English words. However, I don't mind scheduling such a class somewhere in the future.
----------------M unknowingly fell into the theme of our previous writing on colors by describing a wedding she attended in Iran. The bride had two dresses (the wedding lasted 2 days) -- one was white and one was red. The students found that interesting.
Well, it is warm and it isn't raining so I'm going out a little later to mow the grass. It has really grown in all the rain we've had.
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta 2007
Early morning -- the balloons are being unloaded and inflated
The Thomas crew are working on Bobbin' Along, Bob Thomas' balloon. This is the balloon that I rode in for my first and only balloon ride. It is necessary to hold the balloons down during this process, to prevent a premature departure sans crew!
She's up!
I think the balloons look beautiful against the blue morning sky.
A reflection caught in the Rio Grande.
The sky is filled with balloons!
Bobbin' Along shot from the basket, looking up into the envelope.
The Thomas crew are working on Bobbin' Along, Bob Thomas' balloon. This is the balloon that I rode in for my first and only balloon ride. It is necessary to hold the balloons down during this process, to prevent a premature departure sans crew!
She's up!
I think the balloons look beautiful against the blue morning sky.
A reflection caught in the Rio Grande.
The sky is filled with balloons!
Bobbin' Along shot from the basket, looking up into the envelope.
Many of the balloon designs would make good quilts!
Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta 2007, Special Shapes
The special shapes are a favorite part of every balloon festival.
The Darth Vader balloon was a big hit with the young people......
Especially since some of the crew members came in costume!
After a day of flying, the afterglow is always enjoyed. All balloons are tethered and their heaters are turned on to create a colorful glow.
The 2009 Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta was troubled with weather problems. I decided to share the 2007 pictures that my daughter took because they reflect just how beautiful the balloons can be in a good year.
The Darth Vader balloon was a big hit with the young people......
Especially since some of the crew members came in costume!
After a day of flying, the afterglow is always enjoyed. All balloons are tethered and their heaters are turned on to create a colorful glow.
The 2009 Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta was troubled with weather problems. I decided to share the 2007 pictures that my daughter took because they reflect just how beautiful the balloons can be in a good year.Sunday, October 11, 2009
Seems like the days are just whizzing by! Can't believe I haven't posted since Wednesday!
Saturday I treated Sweetie to breakfast out, and then we drove south a bit to visit the grand opening of a new Kroger grocery store which also sells furniture. Seems a bit silly to me and I didn't see much furniture, but they did have some nice things in the housewares department.
Then we stopped by Walmart and did some shopping for us and for YD who has worked a few hours but still has no pay check from new job. Oh, my, this could be worrysome if I was one to worry about things like money, loss of job, etc. But of course, I don't worry about things like that! Nope, not me!! LOL.
It is 62 deg F and still pretty wet -- has rained off and on all day. I'm loving the cooler weather but the weather man promises that the heat -- high 80's -- will be back next week. Oh, well.
We will take what comes and be happy.
OD has posted some of her balloon fiesta pictures (from 2007) on Facebook and I'm going to ask if I can share some of her pictures with you all here on my blog. If you have never been to a hot air balloon festival you don't know what fun you have missed. We were there one year and thoroughly enjoyed the sights. I've only been up in a balloon one time, and it was an experience, but it is very enjoyable to see the multitude of balloons that attend the Albuquerque Fiesta.
Thanks to my faithful few that make comments on my blog. I look at the visitors I've had and I see that people are stopping by, but most of them are quiet. Oh, well, I don't always comment on every blog I read, either, so I guess I can't complain.
Saturday I treated Sweetie to breakfast out, and then we drove south a bit to visit the grand opening of a new Kroger grocery store which also sells furniture. Seems a bit silly to me and I didn't see much furniture, but they did have some nice things in the housewares department.
Then we stopped by Walmart and did some shopping for us and for YD who has worked a few hours but still has no pay check from new job. Oh, my, this could be worrysome if I was one to worry about things like money, loss of job, etc. But of course, I don't worry about things like that! Nope, not me!! LOL.
It is 62 deg F and still pretty wet -- has rained off and on all day. I'm loving the cooler weather but the weather man promises that the heat -- high 80's -- will be back next week. Oh, well.
We will take what comes and be happy.
OD has posted some of her balloon fiesta pictures (from 2007) on Facebook and I'm going to ask if I can share some of her pictures with you all here on my blog. If you have never been to a hot air balloon festival you don't know what fun you have missed. We were there one year and thoroughly enjoyed the sights. I've only been up in a balloon one time, and it was an experience, but it is very enjoyable to see the multitude of balloons that attend the Albuquerque Fiesta.
Thanks to my faithful few that make comments on my blog. I look at the visitors I've had and I see that people are stopping by, but most of them are quiet. Oh, well, I don't always comment on every blog I read, either, so I guess I can't complain.
Wednesday, October 7, 2009
Homestead Heritage
A friend told me about a place called Homestead Heritage. It is quite near us -- well, relatively.
A few hours drive north and west. It is really interesting so I'm giving you a link to this site.
Click here if you want to see what it is about.
A few hours drive north and west. It is really interesting so I'm giving you a link to this site.
Click here if you want to see what it is about.
I thought fall was going to take care of our hot weather but it is still hot and humid at my house. Yesterday it was in the 90's and today it is now in the high 80's (F) with high humidity. Showers have been popping us around us and a few have dropped a bit of moisture on our yard. Always welcome, but it does make the humidity go up!
- Today was class day -- Again, I had 3 students, all Spanish speakers. My Korean student called to say that she was not feeling well and wanted to stay home. Of course, I said that would be fine. We are all trying to avoid people who don't feel well to avoid spreading the flu in this area.
- In class we studied naming customs, specifically those involving people getting married. There are many customs about brides taking or not taking the last name of their new husbands. I took my husband's last name when we were married and all of my friends did the same when they married. However, that is not the custom in all of the world. I think that there are many countries, especially Asian countries, where the woman does not adopt the last name of her husband.
- What did you do when you married? Did you take your husband's last name or did you keep your birth name? Why? Did your wife take your last name?
- We also talked about colors -- For instance, what colors are traditional wedding colors?....funeral colors?....do clothing colors change seasonally?, etc. It was an interesting conversation. In the USA white has been a traditional wedding color for many years. Today's weddings, however, may have a bride wearing beige, or some other color. There are now black and white weddings where one or more of the wedding party wears black. I spoke with a woman in a local fabric store, who was looking for black buttons to put down the back of a white wedding gown. The bridesmaids were wearing black trimmed in white. Not quite the traditional look, but something that is now often seen. What are wedding colors where you live? Funeral colors?
- My Iranian student has not returned to class this semester. I hope she was able to return to the USA after her recent visit to Iran. There has been some political unrest in her country. I also have some concerns about my Taiwanese student who is visiting Taiwan for 6 months. There has been some severe weather there.
- My thumb is healing and I am now able to use it without pain. I still have to be careful to keep the wound clean, however, as it has not closed. I think I may be left with a small scar following my careless mishap.
- Take care, my blog friends, and please write to tell me about the colors in your world!
Tuesday, October 6, 2009
Good morning everyone,
I had a busy day yesterday. It was quilting day but I elected not to sew because of my sore thumb. Hauling my machine and my tools, fabric, etc., was just too much. I did stop by to say hello. A new person stopped by and indicated that she wants to learn to quilt. She's young and we need some "young blood" in our group!
I awoke very early yesterday, and I don't know why. It gave me a lot of time to get things done, however, I don't want to make a habit of being awake THAT early! First I worked on some sewing that I'm doing for Sweetie. Then, I started sealing the grout on the new tile floors. I am not sure there isn't an easier way than the one I'm using, but we'll see how this goes. I started in a smaller area.
YD went to work! Praise the Lord. She will be working less than full time, but I'm sure her hours will increase as the year draws to a close. She is to be trained as the Asst. Mgr of the clothing store where she is working.
V stayed with me yesterday afternoon-- she had a sore throat, so she wasn't in school, but had no fever. If no fever this morning she will go to school. She was bored here since I had loads of things to do. After Sweetie got home we played a short game of Attack Uno and she had a great time.
Yesterday morning, around 6 am, I turned on the TV to get the news and weather. Alas, no cable. That means no TV as we do not have any type of antenna necessary to pick up signals.
I reported the outage and was assured that workers would be on the job around 7 am. I checked back with the TV off and on during the day, but the cable still wasn't on. Oh, well, I was busy so I went about my chores. I missed it, however. I missed keeping up with the news. I missed the sound because it provides a bit of company to me during the day. Last night Sweetie both read after dinner, but I missed hearing the news. Now it is another day and the cable is still out. This has made me realize that I have developed a habit of TV watching/listening. Sometimes, when I'm busy, I listen to what is on instead of watching. Funny, when we camp I don't miss the TV at all. Never think of it. But here in my house I do expect it to tell me things -- to inform and entertain me. It has become my daily companion.
Where you live, do you listen/watch the TV during the day? Please share with me.
I had a busy day yesterday. It was quilting day but I elected not to sew because of my sore thumb. Hauling my machine and my tools, fabric, etc., was just too much. I did stop by to say hello. A new person stopped by and indicated that she wants to learn to quilt. She's young and we need some "young blood" in our group!
I awoke very early yesterday, and I don't know why. It gave me a lot of time to get things done, however, I don't want to make a habit of being awake THAT early! First I worked on some sewing that I'm doing for Sweetie. Then, I started sealing the grout on the new tile floors. I am not sure there isn't an easier way than the one I'm using, but we'll see how this goes. I started in a smaller area.
YD went to work! Praise the Lord. She will be working less than full time, but I'm sure her hours will increase as the year draws to a close. She is to be trained as the Asst. Mgr of the clothing store where she is working.
V stayed with me yesterday afternoon-- she had a sore throat, so she wasn't in school, but had no fever. If no fever this morning she will go to school. She was bored here since I had loads of things to do. After Sweetie got home we played a short game of Attack Uno and she had a great time.
Yesterday morning, around 6 am, I turned on the TV to get the news and weather. Alas, no cable. That means no TV as we do not have any type of antenna necessary to pick up signals.
I reported the outage and was assured that workers would be on the job around 7 am. I checked back with the TV off and on during the day, but the cable still wasn't on. Oh, well, I was busy so I went about my chores. I missed it, however. I missed keeping up with the news. I missed the sound because it provides a bit of company to me during the day. Last night Sweetie both read after dinner, but I missed hearing the news. Now it is another day and the cable is still out. This has made me realize that I have developed a habit of TV watching/listening. Sometimes, when I'm busy, I listen to what is on instead of watching. Funny, when we camp I don't miss the TV at all. Never think of it. But here in my house I do expect it to tell me things -- to inform and entertain me. It has become my daily companion.
Where you live, do you listen/watch the TV during the day? Please share with me.
Sunday, October 4, 2009
Rain, Rain, lovely slow, steady, lovely rain! Most all night and then again this morning. Stopped sometimes early afternoon. We certainly needed it! Just the right kind, also. Not one of those flash, boom, here and gone, but a gentle soaking rain! Thank you, Lord!
Fingers are still sore but much better -- Sweetie made me put a thumb cage on yesterday evening -- wore it until after church today. It protected my thumb -- I had been hitting it and not only did it hurt but it would start bleeding again.
Was posting receipts and check today -- cleaned out my purse and WOW -- found a Barnes and Nobels gift card that was a Christmas gift! Remember, my Mom broke her hip two days after Christmas so that wiped out any memory I might have had of receiving it and we had totally forgotten we had it. It is for a considerable amount so we will go and shop and be happy! Love books!!
Fingers are still sore but much better -- Sweetie made me put a thumb cage on yesterday evening -- wore it until after church today. It protected my thumb -- I had been hitting it and not only did it hurt but it would start bleeding again.
Was posting receipts and check today -- cleaned out my purse and WOW -- found a Barnes and Nobels gift card that was a Christmas gift! Remember, my Mom broke her hip two days after Christmas so that wiped out any memory I might have had of receiving it and we had totally forgotten we had it. It is for a considerable amount so we will go and shop and be happy! Love books!!
Friday, October 2, 2009
Test over and I got a clean bill of health! So happy to have that behind me -- my Dr. said I could wait 10 years for my next test.
However, on Thursday morning I was using my Olfa circle cutter (which is a wonderful tool) and I was careless and cut my thumb quite badly. Actually, I cut my thumb and my index finger but the index finger isn't too much of a problem -- just sore. My thumb bled and bled and bled -- actually, seemed to just pour blood, until I just said, well, perhaps I should go to ER. Decided not to drive so I called YD and she came over in a panic and took me to ER. No stitches, just a tetanus shot, steri strips (glued on) and a bandage. Boy, did I ever feel dumb!
Now, one has to be smarter than the tools they operate -- right? The circle cutter is wonderful and the cut was entirely MY fault! One cannot be careless when using something that sharp!
Quilters -- may I remind everyone that our wonderful cutters make life easier, but can also make life very difficult when we don't use them wisely. Take care!
However, on Thursday morning I was using my Olfa circle cutter (which is a wonderful tool) and I was careless and cut my thumb quite badly. Actually, I cut my thumb and my index finger but the index finger isn't too much of a problem -- just sore. My thumb bled and bled and bled -- actually, seemed to just pour blood, until I just said, well, perhaps I should go to ER. Decided not to drive so I called YD and she came over in a panic and took me to ER. No stitches, just a tetanus shot, steri strips (glued on) and a bandage. Boy, did I ever feel dumb!
Now, one has to be smarter than the tools they operate -- right? The circle cutter is wonderful and the cut was entirely MY fault! One cannot be careless when using something that sharp!
Quilters -- may I remind everyone that our wonderful cutters make life easier, but can also make life very difficult when we don't use them wisely. Take care!
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
I think I haven't written in a while -- life here has been hectic! I know all of you live lives of peace and contentment, with no stress and nothing to do but sew and.... what? What's that you say? Tisn't so? Ok, then, maybe you do know what I'm talking about. Busy, busy, busy!
I have gotten little done in the field of sewing -- (It seems I can clean or I can sew, but not both!)Sweetie has asked me to sew a new patch on his new leather vest -- leather patch, leather vest. I need to check to see what size needle I need to sew leather, then I'll give it a try.
Today was class --- had three students today -- all Spanish speakers. We had a good class and they increased their vocabularies. They did really well in their writing -- but, they write in English just as they do in Spanish, and of course, that isn't the way it is done. So, we did some correcting sentence structure and also pronunciation. They are good students and are working very hard.
Friday I have the privilege of having a colonscopy. Privilege? Yes, indeed. Praise God for insurance and for doctors and for the wonderful inventions that can look inside your body and see problems while they are small... and treat them before they become big and life threatening.
Yes, it is a privilege, but not something to look forward to. So, think of me tomorrow as I begin preparation, and then on Friday morning as I have the test.
Today my BF took me for lunch (Birthday). I guess this was all of it -- birthday is finally over!
Yesterday was my brother's birthday and also my granddaughter's 11th birthday. Next will be Sweetie's. He will be having his 65th birthday this year!
Take care, all of you, and drop me a note if you will. I love hearing from people.
I have gotten little done in the field of sewing -- (It seems I can clean or I can sew, but not both!)Sweetie has asked me to sew a new patch on his new leather vest -- leather patch, leather vest. I need to check to see what size needle I need to sew leather, then I'll give it a try.
Today was class --- had three students today -- all Spanish speakers. We had a good class and they increased their vocabularies. They did really well in their writing -- but, they write in English just as they do in Spanish, and of course, that isn't the way it is done. So, we did some correcting sentence structure and also pronunciation. They are good students and are working very hard.
Friday I have the privilege of having a colonscopy. Privilege? Yes, indeed. Praise God for insurance and for doctors and for the wonderful inventions that can look inside your body and see problems while they are small... and treat them before they become big and life threatening.
Yes, it is a privilege, but not something to look forward to. So, think of me tomorrow as I begin preparation, and then on Friday morning as I have the test.
Today my BF took me for lunch (Birthday). I guess this was all of it -- birthday is finally over!
Yesterday was my brother's birthday and also my granddaughter's 11th birthday. Next will be Sweetie's. He will be having his 65th birthday this year!
Take care, all of you, and drop me a note if you will. I love hearing from people.
Sunday, September 27, 2009
Give- Away
Gene Black (http://artbygene.blogspot.com is having a give-away featuring fat quarters. He has a darling fat quarter shown that looks a bit like me when I'm shopping. Drop by his blog to admire his new "baby" and enter his give-away. We never have too many fat quarters! (Thanks to Pat (http://alittleofthisandalittleofpat.blogspot.com for telling me about his give-away!)
Saturday, September 26, 2009
Mom is going home today -- she has been here for two weeks and we've really enjoyed her visit.
It is a 3 hour drive to take her home, but my brother and I split the distance and meet and swap her from one car to the other. That way, 3 hours and we are all back at our own homes.
.......I know Mom will enjoy being back to her own routine -- her BF has called her every morning, exchanging information. Unfortunately, BF has bad arthritis and the recent rains have her rather stove up........"stove up" Do you know that term? I guess I spelled it right -- it means having trouble getting around -- stove is the past tense of stave, which has to do with parts of a barrel -- staves. Anyway, she has been hurting. Mom doesn't seem to have that many problems with arthritis, but, unfortunately, I don't take after her.
............Good news! My YD has a new job -- will do orientation on Oct 5. This will be something new for her, and will be part time, but we are hoping for 30 - 35 hours/wk. It won't pay all the bills but will certainly help. Bad news is that she will be working odd hours, evenings and weekends, I'm sure, and no benefits. That means that child care will be a problem and someplace where we will have to step in and assist with V. I have mixed emotions about that, but school will take most of her days so we will have her in the evenings. We will manage, I'm sure, and we are just praising God that YD has this job in these hard economic times. Every day we hear of more people losing their jobs. A cousin lost hers yesterday -- she's in her 50's and was let go, possibly, so that she wouldn't be there when she hit the age where she would be due full retirement. Such a sleazy way of treating your employees!
Take care, everyone, and drop me a note when you visit. I love hearing from everyone!
It is a 3 hour drive to take her home, but my brother and I split the distance and meet and swap her from one car to the other. That way, 3 hours and we are all back at our own homes.
.......I know Mom will enjoy being back to her own routine -- her BF has called her every morning, exchanging information. Unfortunately, BF has bad arthritis and the recent rains have her rather stove up........"stove up" Do you know that term? I guess I spelled it right -- it means having trouble getting around -- stove is the past tense of stave, which has to do with parts of a barrel -- staves. Anyway, she has been hurting. Mom doesn't seem to have that many problems with arthritis, but, unfortunately, I don't take after her.
............Good news! My YD has a new job -- will do orientation on Oct 5. This will be something new for her, and will be part time, but we are hoping for 30 - 35 hours/wk. It won't pay all the bills but will certainly help. Bad news is that she will be working odd hours, evenings and weekends, I'm sure, and no benefits. That means that child care will be a problem and someplace where we will have to step in and assist with V. I have mixed emotions about that, but school will take most of her days so we will have her in the evenings. We will manage, I'm sure, and we are just praising God that YD has this job in these hard economic times. Every day we hear of more people losing their jobs. A cousin lost hers yesterday -- she's in her 50's and was let go, possibly, so that she wouldn't be there when she hit the age where she would be due full retirement. Such a sleazy way of treating your employees!
Take care, everyone, and drop me a note when you visit. I love hearing from everyone!
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
Pat Casadei, from A Little of this and a Little of Pat, wrote that her daughter's surgery went well and the doctor is optimistic that it was not cancer. He is, however, still worried about her knee -- that surgery hasn't healed like it should.
Pat, we will be praying for her and for you!
Pat, we will be praying for her and for you!
Monday, September 21, 2009
I've just finished reading a novel by Earlene Fowler -- you quilters may know her quilting novels. This one isn't about quilting but it still a good read. It is called The Saddlemaker's Wife.
.........One part I really enjoyed was a Christmas Eve message brought by one of the characters. In it he talks about families. He wondered if Jesus's sisters and brothers got annoyed with him. Hummm, an interesting thought. I think there is some disagreement about whether or not there were other children in the family of Joseph and Mary. I, personally, believe that they had other children after Jesus. As first children often are, Jesus might have been the favored child - at least the other's might have thought so. His birth was such a miraculous event in Mary's life, and in the life of Joseph. I wonder if Joseph ever looked at this oldest son and wondered.....who knows what.
..........But consider the other children -- how do you compete with someone who came to be the Savior of the world? While they may have adored Him, still, he was different.
......Interesting to think about. What do you think?
.........One part I really enjoyed was a Christmas Eve message brought by one of the characters. In it he talks about families. He wondered if Jesus's sisters and brothers got annoyed with him. Hummm, an interesting thought. I think there is some disagreement about whether or not there were other children in the family of Joseph and Mary. I, personally, believe that they had other children after Jesus. As first children often are, Jesus might have been the favored child - at least the other's might have thought so. His birth was such a miraculous event in Mary's life, and in the life of Joseph. I wonder if Joseph ever looked at this oldest son and wondered.....who knows what.
..........But consider the other children -- how do you compete with someone who came to be the Savior of the world? While they may have adored Him, still, he was different.
......Interesting to think about. What do you think?
Friday, September 18, 2009
Chicken foot
For my Wisconsin friend, and others who are not in the know, the picture above is of a game of chicken-foot. It is played with a double 12 set of dominoes (color coded for the numerically challenged.) This game is a lot of fun and can be played by young and old alike. (The point where the rows of dominoes branch off from the original long row is called the chicken foot. The "foot" consists of a double and then three matching dominoes played in a pattern that looks like a three-toed chicken foot, hence the name.
I finally did it!
The picture below is my GD, V, trying on her new birthday (10) clothes. The top is rather special. It is the first garment that I actually decorated with my new Husquvarna embroidery machine. V picked the sun design and then Grandma got cold feet and didn't do it. Today I realized that if I messed it up, I'd buy her another shirt, but it was time to get busy. It was surprisingly easy! Only problem is that I put it too low on her shirt. I think it should be higher but she and her mother liked it where it was. Now I'm anxious to do another something!
V and her mother came for dinner -- We had sausage with onions and bell peppers, corn, rice, and cabbage. The next door neighbor brought over a gift and a dozen decorated cupcakes. V was thrilled, and I have to admit, those cupcakes were delicious! V asked me for a new pillow for her bed and I got her one. She was delighted with it. The pillow and her new clothes (2 new tops and a new skirt) were the gifts from these grandparents. She has another party tomorrow and then her birthday is over. I, on the other hand, am still celebrating!
V and her mother came for dinner -- We had sausage with onions and bell peppers, corn, rice, and cabbage. The next door neighbor brought over a gift and a dozen decorated cupcakes. V was thrilled, and I have to admit, those cupcakes were delicious! V asked me for a new pillow for her bed and I got her one. She was delighted with it. The pillow and her new clothes (2 new tops and a new skirt) were the gifts from these grandparents. She has another party tomorrow and then her birthday is over. I, on the other hand, am still celebrating!
Good morning to everyone. We are still enjoying cooler weather! It is only 73 deg F this morning and I'm going to open windows. My favorite time of year -- when doors and windows can be open all day and night.
You can tell which is the north side of our house -- it has moss growing on it. The HOA has requested that we remove it so Sweetie and I will have to power wash it this weekend. Birthday's over so it is back to our chores.
Mom and I attended a Southern Living at Home party yesterday morning. Beautiful things but a bit pricey for me. However, despite my best intentions of leaving my wallet closed, I opened it to buy a new cook book centered around "lighter cooking." Many of my older recipes are no longer considered heart healthy so I found this lovely cook book -- three ring binder style -- and invested in it. We'll see if I can learn a new way of cooking.
In observance of Grandparents week, Mom and I will join my granddaughter, V, for lunch. It is nice to be so honored. How fortunate she will have a grandma and a great-grandma to share the time with her. Some people never get to know their great-grandparents.
I was reading Sue's blog (you can find it here,) She posted something that I need to remember.
"He looks at you with compassion.
He doesn't look at the sin because He has already paid for it."
How wonderful to know this! And, knowing this, shouldn't we look at others with compassion because He has already paid for their sins, also. A wonderful thought for my day. Feel free to share it -- He has forgiven your sin, too!
You can tell which is the north side of our house -- it has moss growing on it. The HOA has requested that we remove it so Sweetie and I will have to power wash it this weekend. Birthday's over so it is back to our chores.
Mom and I attended a Southern Living at Home party yesterday morning. Beautiful things but a bit pricey for me. However, despite my best intentions of leaving my wallet closed, I opened it to buy a new cook book centered around "lighter cooking." Many of my older recipes are no longer considered heart healthy so I found this lovely cook book -- three ring binder style -- and invested in it. We'll see if I can learn a new way of cooking.
In observance of Grandparents week, Mom and I will join my granddaughter, V, for lunch. It is nice to be so honored. How fortunate she will have a grandma and a great-grandma to share the time with her. Some people never get to know their great-grandparents.
I was reading Sue's blog (you can find it here,) She posted something that I need to remember.
"He looks at you with compassion.
He doesn't look at the sin because He has already paid for it."
How wonderful to know this! And, knowing this, shouldn't we look at others with compassion because He has already paid for their sins, also. A wonderful thought for my day. Feel free to share it -- He has forgiven your sin, too!
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
WOW!
What a great dinner -- we arrived at Carino's and the hostess told my husband that "they" were on the left. "They?" What they? I knew our best friends were out of town. WOW! There sat my oldest daughter and her husband, fresh in from Albuquerque! I was so wonderfully pleased.
What a wonderful surprise! Thank you OD, and thank you, Sweetie! It made my evening very special.
What a wonderful surprise! Thank you OD, and thank you, Sweetie! It made my evening very special.
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