Gatherings

FOLLOW ME...

2010-05-22T14:41:00.005-05:00

Follow me, please to the new and improved Gatherings! Just click on Gatherings to take you directly there.

Here is the address to the new site...http://www.tonjasgatherings.com/ I will be waiting for you to join me there!

See you soon.....Tonja

IT MAKES ME SMILE !

2010-05-20T17:58:00.008-05:00

Just a little modern day trivia for you today...

I'm sure by now everyone has seen this commercial! A child's toys left in the car overnight, take a "Joy Ride". Originally aired on the Super Bowl.

Kia actually got the top wave runner rider in the country to do the stunts in the sock monkey suit.

And, here is sweet Sock Monkey sporting his new tattoo. One of the most clever parts of the commercial is the 'sewing on' of his new tattoo! Just look at those innocent eyes!
Also clever is having the robot doing a dance called....'the robot', of course!

The funky music is "How You Like Me Now?" by The Heavy...originally by James Brown.

Lyrics used in the commercial

How you like me now?
Remember the time when I heat? you up?
So how you like me now?
How you like me now?
how you like me now?
Oh yes-ah
Yeah

Description
A colorful group of characters have some fun in Las Vegas in a montage that takes them bowling, bull riding, dancing, and more.

The red cyclops is Muno, a character from the Nick Jr. kid's show Yo Gabba Gabba! The other characters in the ad include a hairy creature with a black & white striped shirt, a blue robot, a sock puppet monkey, and a teddy bear.

The group all fits into the 2011 Kia Sorento, and rides around some scenic locations. Some other adventures they have include: jet skiing, making snow angels, hot-tubbing with a bikini girl, getting a 'MOM' tattoo (actually sewed on), standing by the Las Vegas sign, riding down the street standing up through the sunroof, passing by the New York, New York casino, and arriving at the Monte Carlo casino.

The punchline to the ad is all the characters are a child's small toys. The mom pushes the Start button and the music starts up again.
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I know it is hard to believe, but, I just do not know how to get those videos on my posts. Well, that's not exactly correct. I can get them on there...I just can't get them to play! Which actually defeats the purpose of putting them on there in the first place!!! BUT, if you wish to see the complete commercial, one minute and 11 seconds...just google Kia Sorento Commercial.

And prepare to SMILE!!!

GOOD MORNING, SLEEPYHEAD

2010-05-19T07:59:00.003-05:00

Did you have to get up too early this morning? Did someone call you while you were still in the middle of a sweet dream? Yep, happened to me, too. Painters coming to my house. Oh well...Have a good day, anyway!
No. This is not my dog, or my bed, or even my city...but, it sure made me smile!
Hope you do, too!

RETIREMENT TIME

2010-05-16T09:02:00.000-05:00

"God has given us these times of joy." Nehemiah 12:43

Tina and I travelled to Moultrie today to attend a very special party. Shirl is retiring after 28 or 38 years of teaching. (I don't remember which she said. 38 seems like long time...I don't think she's THAT old.) Her sweet daughters had a surprise party for her to let her know how proud they are of her. Both of her daughters are in the teaching profession as well as one of her SILs. Well, she was expecting pictures with the family...but she got all of us instead!

Look at all the food! Yummy goodies!

And, look at this cake! So pretty and so good! Shirl thought the top layer should be all hers!

Sue, Shirl's sister, was the first to spill something on her clothes! Seems the older I get, the more I do that! Jayna to the rescue...she fixed it right up!

I do not remember what we were laughing at here...but it was really funny! I love to laugh!

Remember my big kitchen picture from Maui? Well, here's the small version. I brought it to Shirley because she has a lot of the blue and white china. And, because I love her!

And here are The Sister Friends! Tina...Shirl...Tonja

Shirley and her daughters...Jayna( son, 3 years...daughter due in 2 weeks)...Shirl...Jolie (daughter 5 years,son due in Oct.)

The Lord provided us a beautiful day with blue skies, and plenty of beautiful sunshine. Jolie and Jayna honored their Mother, and showed her how much they admire the work she has done through the years. Several of the ladies she teaches with were there also to celebrate with her and share their memories. And, Tina and I were blessed to be able to share the day with them all. 'Cause, it really wouldn't have been a party without us, now would it??? :)

Jayna's husband, Keith, is a man of many talents! We should all be so lucky! He built their house, cans vegetables and fruits, and is a gardener deluxe! This is a hanging basket on their deck. I thought it was so beautiful. The colors just made me smile!

Tina and I made it home safely, and solved all the world's problems along the way...as well as planned a bridal shower! Women should rule the world...we know how to get it done...and get it done right! :) Happy Sunday to you!

SUMMER DECOR...2010

2010-05-14T20:20:00.001-05:00

I think those of you that visit me often, here at Gatherings, know that I love to have a decorating project! And, I love seasonal decorating in my home. So, since it is summer here in South Alabama (92 this week), I have been busy putting out the summer decor.

OK, we'll start with the mantle. I've done it a little different this year. I got these 3 new shell pics that have such wonderful colors in them!

I've used all my blue and aqua books as lifts and fillers....and they are all on the sea or Hawaii or something related. My sea birds are balanced on either end of the mantle. NOTE: Things are not about to topple off as it looks like in the pics, I was about to topple over as I tried to get just the perfect angle so as to show you the tiniest details. Anyway...I covered the mantle first with a fishing net, and added a few sea stars to it.

Moving over to the table by the library, I fixed this display. My sweetest DIL gave me this great aqua bowl for my birthday last year. Isn't it unusual? Well, I thought it looked just perfect full of coarse sand, and some beautiful shells.

Add 3 sea life sculptures, and a pic of 2 of the cutest girls to hit the shores of Maui this year.

Next comes the buffet next to the dining table. Here are some fun new things!

Have you seen these resin sand castles? We found these on Maui and I just couldn't leave it there! There were all sizes, but, this was the only size I thought I could add to the stash I was already hauling back to AL! It has a votive candle cup inside...

...and doesn't it look fun when it's lit? One of my favorites!

And, these were a serendipitous find. I ran into Big Lots to pick up something, and there on the end of the aisle were these beautiful candle holders. They are mother of pearl, and are very well made. Selling for $45.00'elsewhere'...I got them for $7.20 each!!! All I need to do is add a votive cup and candle.

A few more close ups of the summery, beachy, warm weather, fun colors of the season!

“Our memories of the ocean will linger on, long after our footprints in the sand are gone.”

“My life is like a stroll on the beach...as near to the edge as I can go.”
-------Thoreau

“Why do we love the sea? It is because it has some potent power to make us think things we like to think."-----Robert Henri

"If I can't be at the beach, at least my house can look like I am."---Tonja Owens

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AND...I decided that the new vase in the kitchen needed a little more color, so I added a few poppies.

A LITTLE KITCHEN COLOR

2010-05-12T15:00:00.002-05:00

It's been fun getting The Creek House ready for summer. Pool parties, bridal showers, July 4th, Birthday Celebrations, etc! I love it! I love the sun and the summer.

Let's start with the kitchen:
I bought this canvas when I was in Maui in March. It is very different than the things I usually like, but something about the explosion of color, and the feeling of 'canning fruit' in Aunt Ree's kitchen (see the jar of huckleberries), just spoke to me. My family doesn't really like it, they think it looks like an 'old lady'. But, since there are no 'old ladies' around this house, I decided to hang it up. And, I love it! It makes me happy!

Now...do you notice the 'blue willow like' china in the picture? I thought it was important to bring that out, and I did not have any pieces. So, I sat off on a quest. Find some pieces at a low, low price. First stop, R*ss...where I scored this great platter for $5.95! It really is pretty. Next over to TJM, where I found the bowl and saucer for $3.99 each.

Heading back to TJM several days later, they were just putting out these small lamps...$9.99. And, on a trip over to Pop's, I realized Mom had several pieces on the top of a cabinet. The large pot on the second shelf is hers. It is difficult to tell, but right in front of the lamp is a dish of faux cherries. There are cherries in the pic. Now, I am on the prowl for some faux strawberries. None around these parts, so I may have to look out of town. A little pot of herbs, some oranges, and a little greenery...all in all, it's coming together well.

And, look at this beautiful tall pitcher...from Adam and Suzanne for Mother's Day. It is just perfect in my kitchen! They are very good to me!

FYI...canvases can be wrapped and not framed, as such, and I really like that look better. However, since I was hanging this in the kitchen, I decided to frame it under glass instead, to better protect it.

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KITCHEN TIP: To get rid of those pesky kitchen odors....eat out!

Let me share with you a memory I have of my Granny Merritt, that makes me laugh every time I think of it. Once when we went up to visit, Granny and I were sitting and talking. She brought up cooking and I told her that I had a motto:
........."FROM THE CAN...TO THE PAN...TO THE MAN!".........Well, she though that was the funniest thing she had ever heard! She laughed and laughed, and told everyone who came around about it. But, she kept forgetting part of it. She asked me to write it down for her so she would not forget it. All I could find was an old scrap of blue paper. But, I wrote it out for her, and she hung it on her refrigerator. Later, after she died, Mom found that tattered old blue paper tucked inside her Bible! She brought it home to me, and I have it among my treasures.

MOTHER'S DAY 2010

2010-05-10T11:26:00.000-05:00

Ian came home from Birmingham Saturday evening. I didn't know he was coming, but I had a feeling he just might. He's a boy who loves his Mom. He had to leave Sunday morning early, so I stayed home from church to spend some more time with him. He doesn't get home as much as he used to, so all the moments are precious.

It has become a ritual with us for me to walk out to his car with him when he leaves. Then he turns around when he gets on the street and gives me one more wave before he crosses the bridge...and is out of sight.

Today as we were speaking a moment before he got into the car, I said to him, "Look, son, do you see my hydrangeas? Look how good they are growing. They are going to be full of flowers soon." And, he said, "Yeah, Mom, they're really pretty." And, I could hear it in his voice. He did not care one whit about my flowers...not one little bit. And, that's OK. I know boys pretty well. But, at that moment, I lost it...thinking of the women who had come before me.
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My Granny T (Pop's Mom) was quite a gardener. She lived in Douglasville, Ga. with her daughter and another son. She was always ready to show off her beautiful flowers and trees. In her house and on her screened porch, she had many succulents. That hot Georgia heat did them good. She would walk out to the car with us when we were leaving and point out one or two other plants on the way. Mom would bring home cuttings from her for one thing or another.

My Granny Merritt lived in a mobile home in my Aunt Marie's yard. She had lots and lots of space to grow things. I can remember her asking me soon after I got to her house if I had noticed the latest plant as I was coming in. And, I had no idea what plant she was talking about. Later, after she had let us rest maybe an hour, she would say, "Come on, Tonna, and let me show you what I got out in the yard." And, I would walk over her yard with her and she would tell me how she started this from a cutting from Aunt Someone's yard....or she moved her bulbs here from there and she wasn't sure if they were going to be OK, but, "LOOK! they are coming up!"...and I would see a little bit of green just breaking the through that North Carolina soil, And, I would rejoice with her. She would go on and talk about this flower or that, her 'high geraniums' (hydrangeas), and we would walk and look and she would point and bend over and pull up weeds when she found them. It would get hot and she would go in,,,telling me, "we'll look at the whatever's tomorrow." And, when we left to come home,in our trunk and under our feet were bulbs and cuttings of this and that and hostas.

I think back to winter 2009, my Mom was so proud of her pansy garden. It surrounded the big tree next to the driveway. Pop had helped her build up around the tree, so she had a nice bed to plant in. And, she would put out a hundred or so every year. Then, in the spring and summer, she would grow something else, and she delighted in showing me. She had a 3 level plant stand next to the house, and she kept it so pretty. Geraniums, begonias, bougainvillea, all doing their best to live up to the plan she had in her mind of how they were going to look. And, she had a little garden of zinnias next to the fence. And, when she went out with me when I would leave, she would point out how well they were growing, and did I want to cut some to take home with me?

These pics were made last summer, but Pop (with Joy's help) has replanted all the flowers. It looks so pretty, and Mother would be so pleased. He takes good care of them. Bless his heart, he honors my Mama's memory so well.

She showed up at my house several years ago...when I lived on Saddlewood. And, she said, "Come on, Tonja Lynn, we're going to dig up that spot by the driveway and put in these hosta. They are from Mama's(Granny Merritt) yard. I put all I could in my yard." And, we went out and dug up the little triangle of dirt and grass between the driveway and the garage and we put those bulbs into the Alabama dirt. She said, "You'll be proud when these come up next year. They'll be real pretty." And, I though to myself, "we'll see." But, when those green shoots started poking up through the soil...I was indeed happy to see them. And, every year, more and more came up and Mom came back and we divided them. And, they continued to grow their beautiful green variegated hearts out. And, I would plant little white impatiens in between them. Oh, they were pretty.

We have since moved to the Creek House and Adam and Suzanne have moved to the Saddlewood house. I told Suzanne early on that I was coming to get some of my hosta bulbs when it was the right time. And, some of the iris bulbs in the front. But, I will leave enough of them that she can point to them one day and say, "These came from your Great Great Grandmother's yard. And, they were tended by your Great Grandmother and your Grandmother...and me."

And, right out on the driveway, I had a little cry with Ian, and he hugged me tight and said, "It's all right." And, it was, all right, I mean. I told him, "Thank you for bringing these memories to mind today. You reminded me of something very sweet."

And, I turned him loose, he kissed my cheek and drove out of the drive way...and turned back to see me waving....and he went over the bridge and out of sight.

I stood there, looking at my hydrangeas and remembering for a few more minutes. I shed a few more tears and went into the house...came to the computer and began writing while this was fresh on my mind.
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I am my mother's daughter. As different as we were, we were very alike. I am her daughter, and I am my Granny T's and Granny Merritt's granddaughter, and I am my Aunt Marie's, and Aunt Evelyn's, and Aunt Della's niece.I was DIL to Elizabeth. I am SIL to Beth and June. And, I am the mother to Adam Ryan, Alex Townsend, and Ian David and mother in law to sweet Suzanne. I am aunt to Tara and Lori. I am aunt to Jim and Dan and Todd and Stan and Kim. I am great aunt to baby John Thomas.

And, I will show them all my beautiful hydrangeas when they leave my house. And I will wave to them as they drive across the bridge and out of site. One day they will read this (I hope) and realize that they come from a long line of strong women. Women who did wonderful things with their time. They were women who raised their families well. And, they still had time to grow beautiful flowers!
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Adam and Suzanne came over this afternoon and we spent time together with them. They brought me the most beautiful vase in the perfect shade of orange! Love it! Suzanne has exquisite taste!

Alex was unable to be up at all today. He did manage a "Happy Mother's Day". Bless his heart, he is in so much pain these days.

I received a beautiful card from Don.

And, Tara and Will had Baby Dedication at their Church yesterday. Joy and Tommy and Pop all were there, and Will's Mom and Dad and Brother and SIL and children. John Thomas is a blessed little boy to be surrounded by so much love and by so many people to teach, guide, and direct.

And, these are the things that happened...and were remembered...on this Mother's Day 2010.

REMEMBERING MOM

2010-05-08T13:28:00.008-05:00

I am feeling sadder than I thought I would today...this day before Mother's Day...the first one without my own Mom. It has been 10 months since she went to live with Jesus. Most of the time I feel settled about her being away from us, but today as I sit here and think about tomorrow, Mother's Day...I'm all undone. She was sick last year on Mother's Day, and Ian and I went to visit with her for a while in the afternoon. The picture of that day is on my sidebar. I don't think that today I can write in complete sentences and think about words flowing smoothly from one to another. I don't think I can write the words that will let you know what a dear, dear person she was. I do not have the words in me today. And, I think I have said it all before. So, as a reminder to myself and my sister, and my children, I am going to just make a list of things that she liked...and some people who were especially dear to her...and I know I will leave out some, and if I leave you out...please forgive me.

MOM LIKED:

Pop
jewelry...lots of jewelry
pretty clothes
new shoes
girdles
pantyhose
my shirts...the ones I designed
beets
sour gummy worms
china...she had several sets
beautiful serving pieces
a clean kitchen
to iron everything
to fix food for family
to sing
to do missions
to be silly
the 'moo cow moo'...poem she learned in elementary school
'shoe fly pie'...a song she loved to sing and dance to
her SS class
Bro Jerry
to change furniture around and to buy new
to entertain
plan, plan, plan!
use fabric underneath displays
be in charge
a fire in the fire place
planting flowers
peach rings
Black filled Christmas candy...creme drops, I think
to dress she, Joy, and me alike when we were little
Evelyne and Ed
Rudean and Frank
Katherine an Allison
Jerry and Rhonda
Dick and Lahoma
Jane and Wendall
June and Jerome
Bill and Pat
Neva
Shirley
Becky
Joyce
Elizabeth
Monty
Patty
Tina
Shirley
Pamela
Jeanette
Mabel
Janelle
Linnie
Eunice
Billy
mentoring younger women
her sisters and brother
fresh vegetables
hose to match her shoes
bag to match her shoes
Pillsbury Dough Boy
jokes
Dr.Pepper
growing tomatoes
my new house
surprises
Peeps
dressing Pop
making her poundcake for others
treating the church staff to special lunches
her prissy living room
to play the piano...but only at home
having extra outfits ready to go at a moments notice
buying gifts early and storing them
having a gift closet
traveling with groups around the world when she was young
traveling with Pop or Joy and I in the car in later years
my blog...she read every night before bed...
PFChang's
going to Graceville for shrimp (a tiny town nearby)
going to NC and putting up veggies...she even liked the shelling!!!
Mission Trips and the teams that travelled with her

SHE WAS :

very brave
kind
busy
caring
gentle
hard
tough
stubborn
opinionated
silly
conservative
so proud of her grandchildren
a mother to be proud of...and I am.

March 2009
March 2010...Maui

NEWS FROM GATHERINGS....

2010-05-04T17:20:00.002-05:00

My sweet son, Ian, called me last week and told me that he was in the process of making me a new blog site! Well...this is very good news. And, I am very excited. My only hesitation is the fact that I am only now learning all the things I need to know about this one!!!

He has worked very hard to make me more current and up-to-date. He's transferred all the info over, and is working dilegently to fix things so that I can do it all by myself. [Don't tell him...but, I doubt that is EVER going to happen]. But, I'll try! I have been working on the stuff he has taught me so far.

So, if I'm a little absent around the blogiverse this week, that is one reason. The other is...John Thomas stayed with me today...all day, and is coming again another day. Just color me one happy girl!

LIVING RIGHT

2010-04-30T14:23:00.000-05:00

"LIVING RIGHT HAS ITS REWARDS!"

When it's hard to keep doing the right thing, when you really want to bop someone in the head or shake them till their teeth rattle...don't. Just count to 10 or 280, and keep your cool. Perhaps take a walk...preferable in a shopping area for maximum benefit!!!

When you want to eat the last cookie in the box, and it's your most favorite kind in the world, but you know someone who lives with you loves them as much as you do...go ahead and leave it and you eat Ritz instead. And, if you should need a chocolate milkshake to go with...not a problem. No calories will be counted because you were being magnanimous in the first place.

When you have made 2 trips to the drug store in the last day, and SOMEONE comes up to you and ever so kindly asks you to please take this other prescription to get it filled, and would you mind waiting because they need it in the next 2 hours, and it just happens to be right at 5:30, when the CVS is the busiest, so you can not drive through, you have to go inside, which means you'll have to put your bra back on...just smile sweetly and say, "I'll be glad to," and remember it is against the law to sit and wait at the pharmacy in the back of the CVS without downing a Diet Dr.Pepper and a Snicker Bar while you wait.

And, if you are feeling really sick, sick nigh unto death, and your kind "neat freak" spouse complains about the 4 pieces of Tupperware that are in the sink instead of being in the dishwasher or preferably washed by hand and put away...try to refrain from taking every piece of that 'Faux Tupperware' (which is really, really faux...not even Glad or Ziplock...but more Dollar General) and laying it gently on the floor and then taking your dainty foot and stomping every square inch of that wimpy plastic until it lies flat on the ground, never to be a square or rectangle again in this life...and then throwing it in the garbage can. And all the while spouse who started this whole scene, stares at you with mouth hanging open, eyes bugged out of the head, and brow furrowed. The next words that leave his lips are, "Are you out of your mind?" To which, the correct answer is, "Yes. Yes I am. So, if I were you, I'd be very afraid." But, say it with a smile on your lips....for full effect.

And, if you are able to do this..."Lo! You shall be rewarded! And GREAT shall be your reward. For you are indeed worthy." Truths from Tonja: Chapter !

I'm not bragging on me or anything like that...humble girl that I strive to be...
BUT! Look who came to stay with me AGAIN. THIS. MORNING! As you can easily see...He is indeed delighted!

HOWEVER, there was just one little problem. This very smart little boy (kin to me)is used to much visual stimulation. And due to the fact that he is either on his tummy or his back...there is not much to look at. When I hold him, he is very happy...even overjoyed...because he gets to look at me! But, even his Aunt Tonja can't hold his attention forever. So what's a resourceful aunt to do? Hmmmmm....

Well, when he sits in his carrier, it has a bar that toys hang from. Which excites him greatly! When he rides in his car seat in GiGi's car, there are toys tied everywhere for his amusement. But, at Aunt Tonja's house...there is nothing that hangs above his head for him to grab and teeth on and wad up and gnaw on. And, he obviously misses his toys because he doesn't tarry for very long on my face.

So, using what supplies I had on hand, I set about to build a playground for Master Bush. I needed something to hang toys from, and whatever I hung the toys from needed to be suspended overhead of baby boy. First, I found some old macrame cord. I used to be quite a good macrame knot tying artist. I made plant hangers for every post me or Mom or Joy ever had. And, they were fine ones, too. And, purses! Oh. My. Goodness. Purses of every color, shape, size that you could imagine! I gave them away, I sold them, I made them for everyone who even thought they wanted one. I even made a table. Yes, a table. A hanging table,but a sturdier table you could not find in all of the city.

But, I digress. I have not done macrame in about 20 years. However, for some reason, I have held on to this small amount of cording. Actually it's probably 10 yards. Now, how to SAFELY place this cording above the baby. I began tying the cord to the leg of my work table. Securing it, I moved to the next leg of the table...because I wanted to be sure JT couldn't pull the table over to him.!!??!!
OK. that was on one side of the baby, now to the other side of the baby, but safely overhead. There it was...the corner of the daybed! Perfect...higher than the baby...higher than the table, so there could be a nice dip in the middle...so the toys could be reached. OK..done! Looking good! UH OH...maybe the toys should have been strung onto the cord BEFORE it is tied into several double knots on the bed posts! OK...are you ready? Here is the the "SWINGING TOYS FOR BOYS" designed and manufactured by Auntmade.

Ignore, please, the condition of the room. There are several things out of place today and there will probably be several things out of place tomorrow, too! Notice the specialized cording tied to the table leg on Right, and the bed post on the Left.

LOOK! He's found it! He likes it!

Notice, please, that the 'specialized cording' is at a safe distance from his head.
Notice also that the toys are in the correct position for ease of playing.

Looks like it's working just fine!

It MUST BE NOTED here that at NO time during the use of the Swinging Toys for Boys was the child in question left alone. A responsible (!??!!) adult was there at all times!

WHAT A SMILE ! WHAT A BOY !

2010-04-29T07:45:00.005-05:00

I had the joy of keeping John Thomas, Tara and Will's son and Joy and Tommy's grandson...but most importantly, MY GRAND NEPHEW ! We had so much fun playing and laughing and singing. Well, actually, we both did the playing and laughing (Don, too)....and I did the singing. He thought I was pretty good, too. At least he didn't cry. Actually, he got very still while I sang. Maybe because it reminded him of the angels singing. Or maybe he had just never heard anything quite like it.
Whatever! It was a 'joyful noise' anyway!

PLAYING WITH SHELLS

2010-04-27T13:45:00.008-05:00

"Listen! Stand still and consider the wonders of God." Job 37:14

"God made the world and everything in it." Acts 17.24

"God made everything beautiful in its time..." Ecclesiastes 3:11

Just a few of the beautiful shells I have collected...

A DAY AT THE BEACH...1953

2010-04-26T05:49:00.000-05:00

"The sea, once it casts its spell, holds one in nets of wonder forever." Jacques Cousteau

Mom...Pop...Tonja...1953

FOR YOU...

2010-04-24T17:53:00.003-05:00

PS...I made this for you........

I did my best............

Yes, I realize that one of the quotation marks is backwards........

I tried to correct it.........

It would not cooperate........

It wanted to go its own way........

I decided to let it.......

I can live with that.........

Life isn't always perfect.........

You just have to deal.......

There may be a sermon in there somewhere........

Just saying.

THEY FOUND ME IN DESTIN

2010-04-23T11:00:00.001-05:00

I almost didn't write this post, because I'm afraid you'll have trouble believing this really happened. But, really, these folks are too funny not to share.

On Saturday, Don was busy in a meeting, and I had read all the magazines I brought, and there was nothing good on TV. So, I hopped on the bus...and went shopping! I did a little damage and called the bus to come and get me. (These are small vans that have seats down each side and across the back). When it got there, it was full, and I had to go to the seats across the back. We stopped and let all those folks out at the beach. And, I thought I was going to have a quiet ride back. BUT WAIT...THERE'S MORE! here comes a family of 8...not intending to miss this bus--no matter what! And, friends, it took me about 30 seconds to realize the 'crazies' had found me...and were riding on my bus! The door closed behind them...and off we went!

First to speak was the little boy...around first grade. His arms were folded and his lips were poked out. When he realized that no one was paying him any attention, he said," Yeah, that's right! I'm mad as he**!" Well! My eyes popped, and I thought that if that had been one of mine, he would be walking his sassy self back to the motel! His Daddy thought that was highly entertaining and very funny. His Grandaddy stood up and walked over to him, pulled him up and swatted him on the rear. Then he looked at him and said, You apologize to that lady, right now!" And, he was pointing at ME! (I didn't want an apology...I didn't want to even be on this bus!) Grandaddy continued..."You ain't no hooligan, and you ain't no bad boy...but, you sure is rude! Now apologize before I have them stop this bus." The boy grudgingly said that he was sorry, and then, he tried to stomp in the aisle...so we would all know he was mad ,as well as being embarrassed. At that exact moment the bus hit a bump...and he went flying over his sister's feet, and landed in his Mother's lap.

OH! MY! She jumped up and started yelling, "Get offa me, boy...you know I've got the vertical. And you's gonna get it, too if you don't get move!" She pushed him then and he landed on the floor of the bus.

{Friends, this family of 8, and myself were the only ones on the bus. And, I really did not know whether I should get off and walk the 3 miles back to the hotel or just sit veeeeeery still and hope they forgot I was there. ...........Also...what exactly IS 'vertical'? Well, she had it , and she had it bad!}

The boy got up, and began easing his way toward the back of the bus where I was sitting very quietly. He sat down beside me. Which was a mite scary...cause I knew he had a streak of the meanness in him, and if Grandaddy got started again, I didn't want to be too close. There was a stream of blood running from his knee, going in 2 directions when it hit the top of his foot. I turned to him and said, "Did you hurt yourself when you fell?" He nodded his head. He was near tears, and no one from his family said anything to him. I looked in my purse and found a tissue and a bandaid and asked his Mother if it was OK for him to have it. She said, "I don't care." I fixed the bandaid and put it on his knee. And, he said, "Thank-you." I said, "You are very welcome. And, thank you for apologizing for saying what you did. I really don't think words like that are very nice."

Just then his Daddy (who looked amazingly like Sn**p D*gg. Yes, there is really someone with that name) said, "Ro-berta, sit up straight, you getting me hot!" WELL!!! She said, "I can't help it. You know I'm taking medication pills...I'm sick and and you ain't helping me none." Then, Grandaddy said, "Baby girl, you come on back home and I'll get you to a good doctor and your Mama will take care of you." "Daddy, you know I ain't coming home, I'm staying with my husband," she said. Grandmother piped up now and said, " And,I ain't fixing to take care of her...she got herself into this d*** mess, she can d*** sure get herself out." (Wonder where Little Boy learned to talk?) Grandaddy said to Ro-berta, "You know he's what gave you that verticalization in the first place!"

[Throughout this whole strange episode, the two baby sisters and the older sister were having a grand ole time. They all 3 had T**tsie R*ll P*ps. Yum-my! They were having a science lesson of sorts. JUST HOW STICKY DOES A T**TSIE R*LL P*P GET WHEN YOU ROLL IT DOWN YOUR LEG...AND IN YOUR HAIR...AND YOUR SISTER'S HAIR! At least they weren't cussing. And, actually, this was pretty tame behavior considering their lineage!!!] But, the real show is back with Ro-berta...

Then, people, she stood up. And then she fell down...into the aisle. "Somebody help me. I'm stuck here on this bus with all you stupid people who don't even know I'm a sick woman!" Daddy got on one side and Hubby got on the other, and they pulled her up, and deposited her back on the seat next to Snoop. I moved to the far back corner in an attempt to stay clear of whatever came next.

The boy who had moved with me, said to me, "They's all crazy. Just crazy." And, I really felt sorry for the little fella...for about 10 seconds. Then he leaned over and whispered to me..."and there ain't no snow in Desitin!" Yes, he said 'Desitin.'

O. Sweet. Pickles. I know this is some kind of test from the Lord above...just wanting to see if I'll crack! I was feeling quite close at that moment!

Little boy was still looking at me. I said, "No. No, you're right. There is not any snow here in Destin." He said, "Is there ever any snow here?" "No, there's not. It is too far south for it to snow here," I said. And for the life of me I could not remember if it snowed here when it snowed in Dothan. But, I didn't say anymore than I had to. Then he said, "They told me we was coming to 'Desitin' to see the snow. I been looking for it." Now, I was back feeling sorry for him. They were messing with his mind. They had suceeded...he was properly confused.......It was only 87 degrees. Snow weather.

Little boy then said, "My Mama is sick...the doctor says she has the 'vertical'. "I'm sorry" I said, "but, I really don't know what that is." Now, here's where I should have just kept my mouth shut...but I felt like I was already so involved in their lives...and, y'all, I could not help myself. "Roberta, that sounds pretty bad," I said, "what exactly did the doctor tell you." {Why. No, I did not feel like I was being nosy. I knew more about them than I ever cared to know, already.}

She said,"Well, he put me in a MRI and it banged around on my brain. But, he said it was OK. Then, he stuck needles in my legs and my b*tt, and said I was having 'nervous damage.' He gave me some medication pills. Said I had the vertical. I get real dizzy, and the room starts spinning. Sometimes I feel like I can't breathe." AHA! I put all the clues together. "Did he call it Vertigo? " I asked. "Yep, that's what he said, " she said.

"Well, you will be fine if you just take your medicine," I said. Just keep on taking it and be careful not to fall." That dumb ole husband looked up then and said, "She better be able to cook my supper and keep up the house. I ain't caring if she's got vertical or not!"

This made me mad.

I knew I would be getting out soon . I looked at the boy and said, "You help your Mama, and let her rest and she will get better a lot quicker." "Yes, Ma'am, I will," he said. And, I walked to the door before I said anything else . When the door opened, I looked at the hubby and said, "I'm a nurse. And, I have known a lot of people who have had vertigo. I even had it once myself. It takes a lot of rest to get better. So, that means YOU have to clean the house, and YOU have to cook supper...and YOU have to take care of the children till she gets better!

His mouth fell open...

I got off the bus...hurried inside and ducked into the nearest restroom...in case they were coming after me.

By this time, I didn't know if I was still mad...scared...or a little bit of both. But, I DID know one thing---I was glad they were ON the bus, and I was OFF!

******************************
I do not condone the use of bad language, but, I thought you needed to hear ALL the things that were said on this strange ride in 'Desitin'. And, I really did get a degree in nursing.

DO YOU HAVE A POINT ?

2010-04-21T09:01:00.008-05:00

STOP !!!!!

Before you read any further in this post, go and get your lipstick. Get the one you use the most.

I'll wait !!! Really, I don't mind.......GO!!!

OK....here's mine. The one on the Left is a Cl*n*q*e lip gloss that I use occasionally. The other tube, on the Right, is my favorite. It is by M*C...the color is 'O'.

But, we are here to look at the shape your lipstick is in...and what that means to you. If your lipstick has:

A SHARPLY ANGLED CURVE...You're an upbeat, creative talker who loves to be the center of attention.

SLANTED TIP THAT CLOSELY RESEMBLES THE TUBE'S ORIGINAL SHAPE...You're thoughtful, conscientious and love to follow the rules.

SHARPLY ANGLED POINT...You're opinionated, full of energy, and a natural born leader.

ROUNDED, SMOOTH TIP...You're calm, easygoing, and a good listener.

******************************

This info is from the book 101 Makeover Minutes by Bennett. I have no idea if it is true or not. How could this be scientifically proved anyway? I mean, I am just not the same person everyday...are you? See, look at the two different tips. I am #1 and #2 ! So, this is shared with you only as a means of amusement.

******************************

Here's a tip...experts say to try a new shade on your fingertips instead of the back of your hand or inside wrist. This is closer to your lips texture and color.

******************************

WE ALL NEED A FRIEND

2010-04-19T20:50:00.001-05:00

We all need a friend at some time or another. And, from the looks of things here...so do our 4 legged friends! Enjoy!

Hold tightly to your friends...they will feel safe with you.

Be ready to share the good things in life.

Sometimes your best friends can be very different from you.

Cover your friend with kindness.

Always be ready to pose for pictures.

Hit the streets together in your most colorful outfits.

Even if he's stuffed, a friend can make the blues go away.

Sometimes,opposites make the very best friends of all!

Always be a soft place for your friend to land.

Hug your friends close to your heart.

Be willing to go to great lengths to help a buddy!

It's fun to go out dancing with a friend!

Above all...it's great fun to act silly with friends.

SATURDAY and SUNDAY and TRUE LOVE

2010-04-18T21:50:00.001-05:00

From the Grand Sandestin Hotel, there is a seashell strewn pathway down to the Baytowne Wharf shopping and eating area. It is a short walk...maybe 500 feet or so. As we walked down to find a place to eat lunch, I used my camera to capture images that demanded a second look. Here is what caught my eye...

The pathway.....

Johnny Jump-ups...planted in big beds...

...and a little orange gerbera thrown in...

And, Old Glory is peeking out between the columns...

A beautiful urn and flower bed filled with colorful pansies...

Loved the foliage on this tree against the grey-blue sky...

An absolutely gorgeous courtyard...immaculate!...

What is that I spy back behind those bushes?...

Let's get a little closer...

What a neat old fence...

And, notice how all the vine is all twisted around, and through the gate. Don't know what it is, but bet it's pretty when it's blooming...

******************************
Walking back to the hotel after breakfast, I watched an elderly couple meandering along in front of me. She had a bag full of something. She and I were talking about all the pretty flowers. She stopped walking and then she said to her hubby, "I don't see her...she's always here. I bet she thinks we forgot her."
Her hubby said, "Don't fret, dear. She always comes running when you call her. Did you call her?" "Well, no. No, I didn't," she said. "Well, my dear, why didn't you?" he asked. She stopped walking and looked at him and said, "I didn't call her because you forgot to remember that you needed to remember to tell me to call her."
And, he turned around and walked to her, took her hand, kissed it and said, "I'm sorry I failed you, dear. I won't let it happen again. Now, you call her and see what happens." He glanced over at me and said, "She's still sharp as a tack." She looked up at him and a thousand things showed themselves on her sweet face...and then she said, "I can't seem to remember her name. So, how can I call her?" "Think hard", he said. "You know...just think." She thought and it was if I could see the wheels turning...bringing up info for her to consider. She must be thinking of every name she ever knew. And, then...a smile slowly began to form. She had it!
"Ca-a-at! Cat! Cat!, she called. "Come on here to Mama. Cat, come on...I got your breakfast! Cat! Ca-a-at!" I wanted to help her call. I wanted to find a cat for her. I actually prayed that the Lord would find that cat and set it down in front of her. She called again and again. She started to get teary. Hubby looked over at her and said, "She's gonna come...just wait!" And, I sent another prayer to the Lord. I wanted to see a cat, even though cats are not very high on my list of things I like. But, right now, I wanted to see Cat very bad. And, then...from under a big group of bushes...out comes a cat! And, from the way her sweet face lit up...I knew it was THE cat. "Look," she said to Hubby, "I told you she was gonna come. I knew it! I knew it!" Hubby told her to come on down where there was shade before she began feeding her. There was a low wall, and she slowly sat down...and Hubby sat beside her. And, as I walked off, I looked back at them sitting there...a big smile on her face as she watched the cat. And, a bigger smile on Hubby's face as he watched his wife. He saw me looking, and gave me a wave...and then a big thumbs up!

FRIDAY IN DESTIN

2010-04-17T08:50:00.007-05:00

SHOPPING IN THE VILLAGE

THE VILLAGE AT BAYTOWNE WHARF...NIGHT

BISTRO BIJOUX.....dinner

A PERFECT ENDING....

THE GREAT ART OF GOD

I'M LETTING THE PICTURES DO THE TALKING

2010-04-16T08:31:00.005-05:00

ON THIRD AVENUE.....Part 2

2010-04-13T22:30:00.000-05:00

Come back with me to 1209 3rd Ave, for a few more memories. Here is one of those great old pecan trees that we had in our backyard. Great for climbing, and hiding behind, and cooking!

Here is Joy filling her pool! Look behind her...next to the house,beside the steps, is the basement door...it's standing open...

There was always much to do in the backyard. And, it was there that I began experimenting with combining differing tastes and textures to come up with my own delicious offerings. We had a most delightful sand, along with a rich dark soil, and a smattering of red clay. Mixed together, it looked delicious. At the right time of the year, I would have the most wonderful green tassel from the big pecan trees in the yard.
See them there at the bottom of the picture. I could strip the tiny little pollen granules off the stem and add them to the soup or stew I had been working on all morning. They were also great for decorating the top of a pie or cake.

In our front yard we had a beautiful wisteria vine. It grew up the telephone pole that was next to the street, right by where we kept the garbage cans. Ours was a much travelled road, and we were not allowed to play there, BUT...that was where the wisteria was. And, it held some strange hold over 2 little girls.
The seed pods of the wisteria vine as they are growing have an incredible softness...almost like velvet.

Blooming, the flowers have an intoxicating aroma. Just saying the name of the plant brings that sweet scent up from my memory bank to delight me again! Bees like them, too! Alot!!!

Then there were the drying seed pods...you actually can hear them when they popped! The seeds were then blown about by the wind to take hold in some fertile ground and start another vine. IF the 2 little girls, and their posse, did not get them first.

It really wasn't fair that the vine was in the front yard. Really, it wasn't. It sang a song to entice us when it was in full bloom! (Or that could have been the bees...) The beautiful purple blooms would mix into the dish of the day, and it was possible to take the individual flowers and place them 'just so' on top for the final presentation.

And, when summer faded and the seed pods were doing their popping dance, the vine, all naked with branch after branch twisting and tangled and turning, beckoned us to come and listen. It begged us to take of its bounty of little seeds inside the pods and use them any way we could imagine. The beautiful wisteria was doing it all for us!

The problem...and it was a big one...was how to partake of its glorious bounty without being seen by Mama. Because, she had this thing about obedience! If we didn't obey...there would be consequences. Yes, Ma'am there WOULD be consequences. And, while I know I could have explained to her just WHY we had gone down 'the path of unrighteousness', she was not in the mood to listen when her girls had strayed. And, she had a way of 'explaining' to us just how unhappy she was! We always got the message loud and clear!OBVIOUSLY WE WERE BEING OBEDIENT HERE!

However, that 'demon' wisteria was working against her. It was pulling her girls to disobedience just as hard as she was pulling us toward obedience. And, there we were, 2 pitiful, sweet, little angel girls...caught in the middle.

How, pray tell, can a budding chef , along with her assistant, prepare her dishes without the necessary ingredients? There MUST be some way to get the wisteria petals and seeds from the FRONT yard to the BACK! And, so, we became quite creative. Sometimes, we would have contests, and whomever would lose had to sneak to the front yard, creep up to the bush, gather enough supplies, and get back before getting caught! See, there were always younger kids around, who could not run or jump or swing as high as we could. So, they would lose. It was just the way of the world on 3rd Ave. Hard-knock life, it was.

Sometimes, we would get my buddy, David, to go get them. Now, David and his 3 brothers lived right next door. He could ride his bicycle anywhere, even IN THE STREET! Poor Mrs Mary had her hands full...4 boys!. So, when David was around, he would go get us a big bunch. He had to do this surreptitiously though, because what boy would want to be seen picking flowers for the backyard girls? So, he would grab some and go...sometimes bruising the delicate flower in the process. He did the best he could...boys just don't always see the big picture! Like a finished cake, pie and 2 soup dishes done by noon! They MUST be decorated!

There was another boy in the neighborhood, Michael, but he was a 'whiney, baby tattletale' so we only used him as a last resort.

EVER TRY TO WASH A CAT?

There were, then, times when Joy or I would be forced to take forbidden road. We would go out the fence gate on the far right side of the yard. This is where the banana tree was. HE-ELL-O-O! Plant the ever so interesting, educational bit of foliage where the kiddies can't watch it, OK.? We never once caught it making any bananas...but, we could have kept our eye on it IF it had been in the backyard! Anyway, I digress. Out the fence gate, and down the row of forsythia planted between our front yard and the McCord's. There were 8 bushes...and then the wisteria. We would always move over to the McCord's yard and try to hide behind the forsythia, moving with quick little hops and jumps between each bush. And, we would stay on their side when we got to the street...even though it was much better pickins' on our side! We always carried a bucket to gather our supplies. And, there were always those infernal bees! It was a quick lesson that you do not slap a bee! I'm just saying...Then, there was the L O N G trip back down the row of bushes, past the banana tree, through the gate, to safety. We would sit quietly there in the shade for a while...trying to regain normal breathing and listening for the slam of the backdoor. It was possible to tell the kind of mood Mama was in by the sound of the slam! Really! It could be just a normal, walking out the door and letting it slam behind you OR it could be a quick, hard slam that signalled someone had opened it and forcefully slammed it closed. Oh! we did not like to hear that second kind! But, if we did, we'd quickly hid the bucket under the azalea bushes just inside the gate...and then hurriedly sit down and look all innocent and pious!

"Hi Mama! You look real purty! ---Ma'am? ---You thought you heard the gate open and close? Really! Well, we've been sitting right here. Just us two loving sisters enjoying playing together like little angels. ---No, Ma'am! ---We know about going to front yard. ---Yes, Ma'am! We remember what will happen if we go outside the gate. ---Yes, Ma'am, we promise to stay inside the fence!" And, we would, NOW that we had what we needed!

Me? I just took all this reconnaissance in stride. It was something that had to be done, and I was careful to plan and carry out the mission as quickly and quietly and as inconspicuously as possible.

Joy, I think, just wet her pants!

TODAY

2010-04-12T19:43:00.007-05:00

I can remember a time when doing something really embarrassing would have just made me want to crawl under a table and wait until everyone went home and then come out. I haven't been that person in quite a while...and today, I got a chance to prove it again.

I went to the PS to offer a little help with end of year things. I spoke with several people, and then went into Bonnie's office and sat down. She was on the phone, so I talked with my friend Allison. Then I crossed my legs... and LOOK!!!

I just laughed and laughed! You would be surprised how many of those girls asked me if I did that on purpose! Would I do something like that on purpose???? Well, yes, I probably would...but I didn't today!

{MEMO TO MY YOUNGER READERS: The day that you find you can laugh at yourself...is the day you are on the road to maturity.}

Oh, it was so good to see my friends there! I miss them so much!

Well, I left there and went to Ross to look for something specific...didn't find it, but did find something else. I have a whole group of decorations in the beachy theme to use throughout the summer. And I found this little figurine...

Here's a better look at their sweet faces...

$4.99...Ross...great deal!

I then moved on to Kohl's, then to Michael's, and finally to Lowe's. That was all my feet would agree to carry me today...so home I went. Had a nice, long conversation with my Pop, too.

Oh, and I did go home and change shoes before I walked all over town...well, actually I just had to change one shoe!!! :)

WHAT ABOUT YOU?

2010-04-10T21:39:00.004-05:00

I do not know why this person decided it was a good idea to jump off this cliff. But, jump, she did! What would have made her jump? As high is it is...it would have to be a good reason.

Maybe if I was being chased by a bear or a lion...

What about you? What would it take for you to jump off the cliff?

ON THIRD AVENUE...Part 1

2010-04-09T13:34:00.001-05:00

Third Avenue was the name of the street where I grew up, until I was in the 6th grade. My parents had bought the home in a new little subdivision when they married about 3 years earlier. We had a huge back yard, eventually, fenced in. There was a banana tree on the right side of the house, and a morning glory vine there, too. Next to the steps going into the back door, was what we called a 'switch bush'. It was some sort of spindly, wiry shrub bush...and it never grew very well. Probably because 'someone' kept breaking the branches off!!!!!!! There was also a large pecan tree in the far left corner, with such wonderful branches! Pop built me a tree house in it, with a bench for sitting and reading or listening to my transistor radio!

Now, two little girls and a host of neighborhood kids could find much to do in our collective back yards. We had a basement under our house, and as far as I know, we were the only ones who did. It had one of those flat doors to go in, sort of like the cellar in the Wizard of Oz. I always thought it so strange because I never knew anyone else who had one in their backyard. It was dug out about half way, with blocks up maybe 3 feet. Above that was a big black hole of scary...only 1 little bare light bulb hanging in the center of the room. I never liked to be in there very much...you know...spiders and other creepy, crawly things. Just the thought of that basement takes my mind to that damp, dank smell. Once my Pop took a bag full of coins and hid them all down there. Now, the boys who were some of our best playmates, thought that was the grandest idea. They were happy to go down into that dungeon to search for hidden treasure... well, I just let them have that pittance...it was not worth it to me!

We had a sand box that we played in, and a swing set, and a dog and a cat, and a bird. Birds don't last too long if you set them out on the back porch...when your cat is out there, too. Sad lesson...well learned. That, however, led to the first funeral I ever officiated at. It was a very touching affair...attended by all those under the age of 10 in the neighborhood. We sang, we prayed, and we sang some more. We all said the Bible verses we knew 'by heart'. And, Joy was wailing her eyes out! Then, as the spiritual leader of the backyard gang, I said a few words about how it is important to always be where you should be...cause if you are not... along will come a devil cat to eat you up! Important life lesson, that! We had wrapped up what was left of Trippy. {I have to tell you that that is the dumbest name ever for a bird. I did not name him. Another child who lived in my house did. I'm not calling any names but I only had one sibling. She named him that because we got him on a trip! I am quite sure I tried to talk her out of that name, suggesting a much more appropriate name like 'Wings' or 'Sky' or 'Birdy'. But, alas, she was the youngest and Mama and Daddy always took her side.} I remember Mama helped us put him away in a manner befitting such a fine bird. She would not pick him up though. But,my best buddy, David, would. Mama put a layer of cotton balls, and a swatch of fabric from the latest dress she had had made,into the bottom of a Buster Brown shoe box. David then dropped the remains on top of the cloth...he was covered with a paper towel, and then she wrapped the box with string. The digging of the hole was left up to us. We dug, we buried, we funeralized, and then...in what I thought was a brilliant touch...we scattered the leftover birdseed over the grave. And, that was that. Until a week or two later, when the most lovely bright green shoots appeared over the grave. The bird seed sprouted! I told Joy that was a sure sign Trippy was in Heaven. She was comforted. I know things like that. I am the older, wiser sister, after all.

A 'MUST READ' FOR YOU

2010-04-08T13:16:00.004-05:00

I have been working on a post that I have now divided into 2 separate posts. I was working to try and get it ready to share today, but was not quite happy with it yet. But, it's coming...

I was reading all the posts from the blog friends I visit every day and I read a post so awesome, and so beautiful, I had to share it with you instead of what I was planning. The words of my friend, Rachel, feel almost spiritual. I want you to feel what I felt when I read her words.

Oh, to be able to take the written word and put it together in such a way that it reaches in and touches our very soul! I invite you to read and savour this post.
You can read it here entitled Keeper of the Nest.

FRUITS LIKE YOU'VE NEVER SEEN

2010-04-06T21:32:00.005-05:00

Some time back, I came across these pictures. And, upon closer inspection, I had a really good laugh! Do you see it? How many of the fruits can you name?

EASTER DAY in PICTURES

2010-04-05T06:43:00.001-05:00

Scenes from the Creek House...Easter Sunday...2010

Ian and sweet baby John Thomas...

Tonja and Suzanne...enjoying the sunshine...

GiGi (Joy) and her grandson, JT...

"He ain't heavy...he's my brother..." The cousins...Alex-Ian-Tara-Adam-Lori...

My 3 Sons...

Pop and Lori...

Pop and His Girls...

FOLLOW-UP PICTURE...and a bonus!

2010-04-04T17:31:00.005-05:00

I promised to get a picture of the cousins to compare with the one I showed you yesterday. They didn't fight me too bad today...even though they would have been just as happy if I had not even said the word 'picture'! So here they are...in the same order they were in the first pic.
L to R...Ian...Lori...Alex...Tara...Adam.

2010

1988

And, since my name is "MUD" for showing you the cute Easter picture from their childhood....I'll just show you another picture where their names were "MUD"!

This is one of my most favorite pictures of them. We had travelled to NC to visit our family. They were sort of bored...what with them being 'city kids' and all. So, someone had the bright idea to turn the waterhose on in Aunt Marie's driveway. Well, it didn't take long until they were covered in mud...every one of them...and every inch of them. They had the time of their lives! And, none of them had ever been that dirty before. Probably not since, either! I remember my Granny Merritt kept telling us that they were going to get 'ground itch'. I don't know if they did or not...but they wanted a repeat mud hole the next day. They didn't get it though! I remember how we sprayed them off with the hose while they were still outside. And, after the girls had gone inside to the tub, the boys got soaped down, shampooed, and sprayed off outside. They didn't think it was possible to get a bath outside. That was another thing they learned that day!

I'm sure my family in NC knows just where this photo was taken...and may even remember this day! A big Easter (((HUG))) goes out to them!

A better report on our Easter day to follow.

EASTER FAMILY ALBUM

2010-04-03T13:19:00.008-05:00

At the risk of having you laugh at my atrocious taste in glasses...here are some old pics of Easters past...

A studio in Dothan was making pictures in the park on Easter Sunday, so off we went, and smiled for the camera!

A few years later...Adam was so happy to be called upon to pose with his Mother and his brothers...can't you see the joy in his face?

With Granny, after Easter lunch...

Acting silly with Grandma, after another Easter lunch...

And, here's the cousins...Uh! Oh! Looks like Adam's attitude has affected Alex...

All the cousins will be eating with me tomorrow...I'm gonna give them another chance to make a good picture! We'll see...

Here's hoping your Easter pictures show the love you have for one another!

EASTER TIME..........BEAUTIFUL EGGS

2010-04-01T21:04:00.001-05:00

To be perfectly honest, it has been several years since I have dyed Easter Eggs. My boys grew out of them, and not being sentimental like girls, they never really cared if I had any or not when they came home. So, I didn't. I suppose that WHEN the good Lord sends me some grandchildren, I will do them again. Until then, pictures will do just fine.

None of that means that I do not think they are beautiful. They are, and there are so many different ways of dyeing them...it can get quite creative. Here are a few that I think are beautiful.

These are Ukranian Pysanky eggs. They are done with a batik method using wax and layer upon layer upon layer of dyes. Much time is required for this process...not to mention patience! These are done on blown eggs...so they are very fragile.

Here are some ordinary Easter Eggs, done as I always did with food coloring and vinegar. I love all the pastels. To make polka dots and stripes, add stickers from the office supply store and rubber bands. They stick very well, and do not come off in the dye.

Now, these are works of art! If I had these I would put them in a glass box to keep them protected. Oh, the steady hand it must take to do these...along with good eyesight! These are goose eggs, by the way. They are stronger than chicken eggs.

Do you see the tiny drill the artist uses? Many times they work with dental tools!

These are Bulgarian Easter Eggs. These are all done with natural dyes. See the ones with the leaves on them? The leaves are applied and then the eggs are wrapped in strips of pantyhose tied at each end to hole the leaves in place. Some of the dyes are turmeric, onion skins, cabbage, and beets.

This is an Emu egg. This egg has many layers, each layer being lighter in color than the previous one. So, it requires many hours to complete.

And, last, these are Chinese Tea Eggs. The eggs are hard boiled, then cracked gently with a spoon and then dyed in strong brewed tea. Sometimes soy sauce is also used. Actually, I think the shell is prettier than the eggs!

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In ancient Egypt and Persia people exchanged decorated eggs at the spring equinox, the beginning of the new year. The eggs were seen as a symbol of fertility for them because the coming forth of a live creature from an egg was so surprising to people of ancient times.
Christians adopted this tradition, and the Easter egg became a religious symbol. It represented the tomb from which Jesus broke forth. In medieval times eggs were traditionally given at Easter to all servants, and to the children, along with other gifts. It seems that the custom of hiding the eggs is a universal one.
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Once, when Adam was very young...perhaps his first Easter Egg Hunt, he did not quite understand the concept. I told him to get ready and wait by the door for me. I gathered my things and met him at the back door. There he stood in his camoflage jacket and hat, boots to his knees, and gun in hand. "Why are you dressed like that?" I asked, "I had your clothes laid out on your bed!" He looked at me like I was from another planet. "Mama," he said,"you can't wear church clothes to go hunting...this is what you 'spose to wear!" And, that day, that was exactly what you wore to go Easter Egg HUNTING!!!!!

EASTER TIME..........LAMBS

2010-03-31T17:20:00.002-05:00

The image of a lamb is not what you would expect for the Creator of the Universe, but that's the title Jesus takes upon himself. He came to earth not as a conquering warlord or a political leader, but as a humble sacrifice for our sins.

The description of a person who sits on the throne of God in Heaven is not, perhaps, what we might expect of the mighty ruler of the Universe-a humble lamb! But Jesus submitted himself to death on our behalf like a humble lamb to the slaughter, and now reigns in Heaven!

Jesus was fully man and fully God. Nowhere is this more clear than when John the Baptist declares that Jesus is the Son of God and the Lamb of God!

"...John saw Jesus coming toward him and said, 'LOOK, the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world!'" John1:29

OK.....These are just for fun! I couldn't resist! In their Easter finery.....

Playing games...

EASTER TIME..........BUNNIES

2010-03-29T11:11:00.001-05:00

The many faces of the Easter Bunny....

FRIENDLY BUNNY

FAMILY BUNNY

FINE ART BUNNY

SUNNY BUNNY

BIBLE QUOTING BUNNY

BUNNY SURROUNDED BY FRIENDS

DAREDEVIL BUNNY

BUNNY IN A NEW DRESS

BLOGGING BUNNY

PRACTICING FOR THE BIG DAY

TIRED BUNNY

EASTER TIME.........PEEPS

2010-03-28T22:22:00.001-05:00

Some things just seem to hang around forever. In this case...I would be glad to see these go! Oh, I suppose they are not too bad...32 calories and 0 fat grams each. But,I have come to find that some people really love them. In fact, several years ago...my Mom said one day when we were in the grocery store together,"I could eat every one of those." She was referring to a box that contained 4 colors of the strange little animal...24 total. I had no idea! I had never seen her eat one. So, we began getting her Peeps at Easter. And, did you know...they are available as ghosts and bats at Halloween. Also, as pumpkins at Thanksgiving, and bells and reindeer at Christmas. We would always surprise her with a new kind! But, lots of adults seem to like them, too! That's a surprise to me!

There is now a Peeps Store, and by the looks of it, a Peeps car!

Some folks are even using them in their hot chocolate instead of marshmallows! YUCK!

Please, Oh, Please, do NOT let me find a PEEP inside my hollow chocolate egg!

Can you believe this? Now it is possible to get CHOCOLATE COVERED PEEPS! What a waste of good chocolate!

Maybe all you need is just the tiniest taste...here you go! Just lick your lips!

If your desire is to impress...here's a 'peep' of an idea!

And, should you think that just because you need to avoid the sugar, you are bound to be 'peep-less', NEVER FEAR...here's SUGAR FREE PEEPS!

This, my friends, is as close as I want to get to a PEEP!

EASTER TIME..........CHOCOLATE

2010-03-27T18:10:00.021-05:00

It is hard to believe that Easter is so close! Time moves on and on, doesn't it? And, faster and faster it goes!

Well...let's talk about something we CAN do something about.....CHOCOLATE! Specifically Chocolate Bunnies! That's the best thing in the Easter Basket in my opinion. Now, here's the scene. You get up on Easter morning and someone (or some BUNNY) has left one of those giant bunnies...with your name on it. Be still my heart! You open the box and catch a faint scent of bliss..but as you tear into the cellophane wrapping, you breathe deeply and inhale the scent of the finest chocolate! Your taste buds are quivering. ..........

What? Who says you can't eat chocolate for breakfast? Who is the boss of you? You, that's who! Now...back to our taste buds...

You slowly begin to take a bite.......STOP!!!!! What part did you eat ? Now follow this link and take this test. It will tell you all the things you have ever wanted to know about yourself...or not! But, it is fun!

Now which part did you eat first...ears for me! Remember what the test said...

LIVE.......LEARN.......and most importantly......EAT CHOCOLATE!!!!!

A GATHERING OF SHELLS

2010-03-25T21:14:00.004-05:00

While I was in Maui I found and purchased several kinds of shells. At first, I had no idea what I was going to do with them...just that I would 'have' them. And, then when Joy and I were in a wonderful shop in Makawao, I saw the most wonderful distressed box with shells covering the top. Arranged so artfully, the shells sat 'just so'. Each was shown to its best advantage. Obviously the price reflected the hard work of the artist...the price was $125.00! Carefully, we put it back on the shelf. But, I began planning how I would create a box for my shells...which were just as beautiful.My plan was to purchase one of the unfinished boxes, paint it, distress it, then glue on the sheells.

One day this week, I was a t Michael's and I saw some wonderful decorative boxes. I'm sure you know the kind...3 differing sizes and decorated with different types paper. I knew immediately that it would be mucho easy to do it this way. So that's what I did. I lay down a bottom layer of smaller white scallop shells...then placed and moved and placed and changed and placed and hot glued. I think it looks really nice. It really will when I get out all of my beachy decor and kitchen ware.

I really forgot to take some before pics...so all these are afters.

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Did you know that you should wash all the shells that you get at the beach before using them? And, here is how... READ ON!

So you've picked up a seashell or two while on vacation at the beach. Many people do. They make a nice inexpensive momento of your vacation. No problem. At least no problem until you realize you and your bags smell like you haven't showered, or as in our case, you jump in the car a few days later and jump right back out -- it stinks! A good cleaning is all that is needed to destroy any odors the seashells might have. Knowing how to properly clean your seashells will not only get rid of the odor, but you may find you have a nicer looking shell without any algae or barnacles covering them.
Some areas in Florida prohibit the collection of "live" shells. These are shells with the animal tissue still inside. "Dead" shell specimens, which have no animal tissue inside, can be picked up freely.

There are several known methods for cleaning live shells. When finished, read through cleaning dead seashells.

1.Burying: This is probably the easiest, but takes a couple of months. Locate an area in your yard where you don't mind digging a hole. Bury the seashells about 18 inches (deep enough so animals will not dig them up). They need to remain buried until insects, larvae, worms, and bacteria remove all the tissue. The longer you leave them the better. See step 5.
2.Freezing: Place seashells in a water-tight Ziplock™ bag, cover with water, then place in the freezer (just like you would do to fresh fish). When you are ready to clean them, let the bag thaw at room temperature until completely defrosted. You should be able to grab hold of the animal inside and gently pull it out. Go now to cleaning dead shell specimens.
3.Boiling: Place seashells in a pot, add water, and bring to a boil. Let boil for a few minutes (the more shells the longer). Use tongs to remove one shell at a time. So you don't burn yourself, grasp shell with gloves or a towel and gently pull out the animal tissue inside. See step 5.
4.Microwave: As long as you don't mind the smell in your microwave, this is an easy method. The time it takes to cook your seashells can really vary by microwave, so just try it until you figure out how long for each shell. Grasp cooked shell with gloves or a towel and gently pull out the animal tissue inside. See step 5.
5.Bleaching: When no tissue remains, soak the seashells in a 50-50 solution of bleach and water. The length of time depends on the type of seashells and the quantity of seashells being cleaned. You must remove them after the "periostracum" is gone. The periostracum is the flaky, leathery covering that covers most live seashells.

A seashell that is found already dead is actually a lot easier to clean. Follow these easy instructions:

1.Bleaching: Soak the seashells in a 50-50 solution of bleach and water. The length of time depends on the type of seashells and the quantity of seashells being cleaned. Just be sure to remove them when the "periostracum" is gone. The periostracum is the flaky, leathery covering that covers most live seashells.
2.Barnacles: If there are still barnacles and other matter on the seashells, you can use an instrument, such as a dental pick, to chip off the material. Other useful tools are a toothbrush, grill brush, wire brush or a water pick.
3.Shining: If you want to give your seashells a nice finish, you can wipe them with a mineral or baby oil.

Cleaning Sand Dollars
•If the sand dollars are dead let them dry for a few days, then put them in a pan with a little bleach. You may need to brush them gently. Do not let them bleach for too long as they tend to crumble.
•If you have the time you can just let them set all winter and they will dry and whiten by themselves.
•If you leave sand dollars out in the sun too long they tend to become brittle and break easily. There is a commercial preservative that can be brushed on to harden the sand dollar.

LIFE UNDER GLASS

2010-03-24T13:26:00.012-05:00

I was reading a post over at Southern Lagniappe, written by my friend, Janie. She is a photographer of such talent! Every post is full of beautiful pictures of the wonderful things she encounters as she travels around her part of the country. Her post today is full of bumblebee pics, and they reminded me of an experience I shared with my boys when they were younger.

Our windows had become permanently closed due to someone painting them closed. Don't know when that happened...it just did. And, it never bothered us much. There were few times I needed the windows opened.

As I was dusting out the windowsills in Alex's room one day, I noticed that the screen at one corner was pulled out. I also noticed that a wasp was flying around between the screen and the window. "Well, this is one time I'm glad the window is stuck," I thought. I am very bug shy. I do not like any kind of creature that flies, or crawl, or inches, or slithers! And, spending the best years of my life raising 3 boys, many are the times I have been waaaaay closer to these things than I ever cared to be. Thanks for the gray hair and heart attacks, boys!

Anyway, as I was looking at the window, I saw that the wasp was working on a nest. It was pretty tiny. "I have got to get someone to move that screen and get that out before it gets too big, " I thought. Yeah, right! I think great thoughts. I do. And, if I carried them out, life would be so much easier for me. But, they tend to go as quickly as they come...and I remember them no more. I don't mean to forget them...it's just that bigger and better things take their place!

Well, the next time I had any thought of any kind about wasps, and nests, or wasp and nests in windows, was when I was putting away some of Alex's clothes in his closet...which is right nest to the window. And, this time I noticed several wasps flying in and out of the window, and the nest had grown quite a bit! And, then I did a strange, strange thing! I pulled a little stool up to the window and sat there and watched them for a while. I can be very brave when safe behind a glass! I quickly became engrossed with these tiny creatures. They would fly out and come back and work on the nest...then fly out and come back again. I think there were about 6 or 7 working there. It was sort of hard to tell since they were not wearing name tags. lowly, I began to see how the nest was expanding.
{I know this looks creepy, but don't worry...you are protected by the computer screen! They can't get to you!}

I was fascinated! And, then I called the boys, and Alex and Ian came and watched with me. Adam was too cool to do such at this point in his life...and Ian was too antsy to sit there for very long...but Alex and I thoroughly enjoyed them!

We watched over the next few weeks and several changes took place. First, they completed the nest. How do they know how to construct these nests? How do they know how many openings to have in each one? How do they know when is or isn't the right time to build them? Look at the constructions of an empty nest...such perfect little cells.

The wasps began to work fast and furious...there were always workers there...and soon, we noticed this...{warning! kinda gross...} We soon realized that they were laying eggs in the cells! Well, the queen was, at least! But, we could never catch her at it!

Then the workers began covering over all the cells. It seemed to us that they were working harder than ever. Soon the entire nest...all the cells...were covered over with what looked like the same papery substance they built the nest out of...just thinner. We continue to watch...and watch...and soon...we could see movement in each cell. Those things were squirming around in there! This was not something that I particularly enjoyed watching. It really creeped me out. But, I wanted to see what was happening. I relied on Alex to keep me up to date when I just could not bring myself to look.

And then, one day...he told me the 'things in the cells'? babies? wasplettes? were coming out of the cells. And they were. It looked as if they were pushing out. And, indeed that is what they were doing. Being born, I suppose. After they opened up the hole they would struggle up a little bit at a time and eventually they began to fly away. The workers were all gone. And, all movement had ceased in the cells that didn't open. Only about 10 out of maybe 150 didn't come out.

And, that was that. Wow! what a unique viewpoint we had on this buggy phenomenon! Alex loved watching it. Ian loved sneaking a glance as he quickly moved on to something more exciting. I loved watching it. But, I don't ever want to watch it again. Because as fascinating as it was...it was also creepy. This look at the unknown was enough to last me a lifetime. And, now that I've blogged about it...I do not even need to talk about it ever again.

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But, I have to add this first. God is as glorious in the way he created the tiny creatures in this life as he is at creating the large ones. As much thought went into the wasp as went into the elephant. And, the miracles of life are not only the big things that are easy to see...but the tiny ones we very seldom see. God is great...in all things!

"How many are your work, O Lord!
In wisdom you made them all;
the earth is full of your creatures." Psalm 104:24

"O Lord, our Lord,
How majestic is your name in all the earth!" Psalm 8:1

"I will praise you, O Lord, with all my heart;
I will tell of all your wonders." Psalm 9:1

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BTW...These are not pics of the exact event...I was not a blogger then and did not realize that every event of my life needed to be documented

FOR JEWEL

2010-03-22T21:59:00.003-05:00

My friend, Jewel, asked me to write her name in the sand while I was in Maui. And, I did!

So, Jewel, here is your name...written on Ka'anapali Beach, Maui, Hawaii...and as it washed into the sea, I said a prayer for you. You have a purpose in life, and God and His people are utmost in that purpose. You are willing to give of self, and share the gospel. It was my honor to write your name and send it forth in God's beautiful ocean! God bless you, my dear!

(the waves were coming in fast and furious, and I could not get my feet out of the way in time!

so sorry...forever you will have to look at my feet along with your name!)

(if you cannot copy the pic from here...please let me know and I will email it to you)

PRECIOUS PROMISE

2010-03-21T14:15:00.003-05:00

"As long as the earth endures,
seedtime and harvest,
cold and heat,
summer and winter,
day and night
will not cease." Genesis 8:22

SPRING

SUMMER

FALL

WINTER

ALOHA...

2010-03-18T13:20:00.004-05:00

FINALLY!
All the days are recorded and posted. It was fun taking you on vacation with me...let's do it again sometime!

ALOHA 3-17-10 WEDNESDAY

2010-03-17T11:46:00.005-05:00

Home again!

Very tired!

Will talk to you soon!

ALOHA 3-16-10 TUESDAY

2010-03-16T21:23:00.001-05:00

Up and dressed and so dreading the car return and having to haul luggage through 3 check points...and all that it entails. And, not to mention the fact that we both have 3 suitcases. That's an addition of 2.

Joy and I sat on the balcony, and prayed together. We thanked God for the time we had spent together...the fun we had had...the laughs we had laughed...and the sweet memories that will stay in our hearts forever. Joy had spent more time sitting on the balcony than I, and she said that she had seen the whales from there. Now, I'm not saying I did not believe her...but I had not seen one. So, as we were praying, I asked the Lord to please allow me to see one more whale. (Cause, it is just not right for one sister to see something and the other not see it and then the one who did see it would always be saying that she had seen it and you had not and there could possibly be some tension there...if you understand what I mean.) And, no, I did not tell the Lord that part, because He has much more important things to think about than 2 old sisters trying to out do one another...besides He already knew all about it...and I didn't want Him to think I was being petty or anything...I'm just saying...
ANYWAY...I looked at my watch and saw that we had about 10 minutes before we had to leave, and I glued my eyes out on the ocean and I stared with all my might! I did not even blink until my eyes were dry. And, then...sure enough...there it was. A whale! I saw him glide over the top of the water...and then, as if to say, "He told me you'd be watching,"...his beautiful tail flipped up out of the water...and disappeared back into the deep. Thank you, God!

And, when Joy came back outside...I said, "NAH-NAH NAH-NAH NAH NAH...I SAW A
WHA-ALE!" Not really :0). But, I did tell her, and then we saw another one...or maybe that was just a swimmer. We had to go...

Now, being the big sister and taking care of my little sister as I always do and have done all my life...unselfishly, I might add...I again took the wheel, and let her enjoy about 15 miles of ocean view as we drove back to Kahului. And, she said she saw another one...but, I'll never believe that one!

I dropped her off with our bags...and went to return the car. Easy-Peasy! The H*rtz bus took me back to the check-in. Now, it is usually so horrible to go through the agricultural check and the check-in...and then the check of the carry ons and us and trying to manage all those bags through it all. But, do you know what God did? He directed me where to put Joy off...and when I got back I saw that D*lta was opening up their curbside check-in right next to where she was sitting with our 6 bags! I asked in my sweetest Southern accent if I could check in there, and the D*lta man said, "You sure can. Where are your bags?" I pointed to Joy sitting there upon the bags acting like she was some kind of princess or something. He went and got the bags, checked us in, gave us our boarding passes, said that he would take care of the agricultural check, and said he would make sure our luggage got to where it needed to be! I never even had to break a sweat! Oh, God is so good! He cares about all the things that we struggle with...even luggage in a busy airport!

We boarded the plane. It was about half full, so, I moved to the 3 seats behind ours, pushed up the arm rests, got my pillow and went to sleep!

Arrived LA, boarded another plane bound for Atlanta. I watched the movie "Precious" on the screen in the seat back. Oh! My! It is a wonderful movie...except for the language. Very bad language...but aside from that-it was a wonderful story. The girl who played Precious was very good, but Monique, who played her mother, was fantastic! She sure deserved her Oscar!

Arrived Atlanta...3 hour layover...then on to Dothan. And, guess who we saw when we entered the terminal? That's right! There stood Pop...waiting for his girls to come home! It was so good to see his sweet, smiling face. We gathered up our luggage, and entered the cool, rainy Dothan weather. Our sweet Pop at the wheel, we talked about the trip, and told him some of the highlights. We'll share our pictures and talk of all the fun things we did. But, the sweetest memories can not be put into words. Because they are felt with our hearts...inside that little room that holds things that only sisters can feel. That room that holds the sweet things, and the hard things, and the unpleasant things, and the silly things...just things that only your sister would understand. And, we will treasure them the rest of our days. "Pop, you gave us a much bigger gift than you thought. You are a good and kind man. From you and Mom we learned about giving of self...and living life to the fullest. You have blessed us, and we are so grateful."

And, That's All She Wrote!

ALOHA 3-15-10 MONDAY part 2

2010-03-16T20:16:00.003-05:00

Up and out on this our last full day in Paradise. Much to do...gotta squeeze every bit of fun out of this day (as Pop would say)! Since I have not eaten breakfast a single time since I have been here, why start today? Joy has a purchase she needs to make so we are headed to Lahaina...then to Paia and Makawao...and back to Ka'anapali.

Top down and ready to go. First stop, Lahaina. Jewelry store. 'Nuff said.

While waiting on a minor adjustment to be done on something Joy or I may or may not have bought...we went next door...to Kimo's (where I got sick on Sunday) and had the Hula Pie, which is a wonderful tradition here in Lahaina.

We finished our business in Lahaina and headed back Upcountry to Paia. I love this gallery and I try to visit everytime I come. They have some wonderful painting and pottery. Also some jewelry and fiber arts. Oh, and obviously I picked up the wrong lipstick...must have been Joy's...'cause I do not wear anything that dark.

Did a little shopping and then Joy wanted to go back to Makawao, so we did. She picked up what she needed and we headed back to the motel. We wanted to visit the beach before leaving tomorrow. Oh, and someone has to pack up all that stuff!

On the way to the beach, we saw a wedding in the courtyard of the hotel...

Joy trying to decide if she's going to stay or get on the plane with me tomorrow...

I wrote my name in the sand...and let it wash away. Each time I visit I do this before I leave...and I have always returned. Hope it works this time, too!

Do you see that big wave behind me? That breaking wave? Looks like when it breaks it will come all the way up to where I am, doesn't it? If you were behind the camera and you saw this giant wave coming up behind the person standing there smiling so pretty for the camera wouldn't you tell them so as to keep them from being drenched and perhaps being swept out to sea? Yeah...I would, too. Joy wouldn't.

I forgave her and let her get in this picture with me.

We walked on down to the Whaler's Village and had dinner at a very nice restaurant. We were fortunate that we were able to be seated outside. I had pistachio crusted mahimahi, risotto, and steamed vegetables. When I made a picture of this, a man at the next table said, "Do you always make pictures of your food?" "I am a blogger," I said, "and my readers want all the details of this trip!" Obviously, he was of little culture and understanding about the ways of the world. :0)

And, walking to the hotel, we left footprints in the sand...

...and the waves rolled over them...

...and they were gone...

ALOHA 3-15-10 MONDAY part 1

2010-03-15T01:36:00.000-05:00

It's here...our last day in Paradise! Can you feel my despair? I want to stay another week! It's been heavenly!

Been out and about all day...and now...somehow....I have got to get everything back into my suitcase! I'm thinking it's 100% possible that I am going to come home with more luggage than I left with! I'm just saying....

So, until I connect with you again from Sweet Home Alabama...ALOHA

*Just a few pics from the beach---Why, NO, I'm not ashamed to show you a pic of me in a swimsuit!

Here's Joy and I...

That's sister asleep in her chair!

And, here I am soaking up the rays!

ALOHA 3-14-10 SUNDAY...part 2

2010-03-14T23:58:00.008-05:00

Joy and I left around 11 and went to an art show by some of the islands leading artists. We found several things that begged to go home with us. And, in the Spirit of Aloha...we agreed to take them to Alabama. Well, wouldn't you have done the same thing?

We found some wonderful jewelry pieces also, and beautiful quilts with ancient Hawaiian designs. We thoroughly enjoyed walking through the art that was displayed there...and finding a piece of two to buy!

Realizing that we never ate breakfast or lunch, we decided to go to Kimo's, a restaurant
in town. It has a wonderful back deck that sits over the water. Why, LOOK! Here we are now!

This one of my most favorite places to eat when I am here. And, they have a dessert called Hula Pie, that is extraordinary. So, we had a plan. We had a cool, fruity drink (the kind safe for kids to drink) and then ordered lunch. Joy had fresh fish and I ordered coconut crusted mahimahi with a Caesar salad and rice. The fish was covered with
a mango, onion salsa. It all smelled divine, and I was starving!

Surely you put fresh orchids on your plates, don't you? Well, the first bite burned my throat...and the second bite did, too. There would be no 3rd bite...because I felt so sick so quickly that we had to leave. Instead of doing the things we had planned, we hurried back to the motel. I was nauseous, and weak, and then I started itching. I was obviously very allergic to whatever was in the salsa. So, I was in the bed for the afternoon. Fortunately I had some benedryl with me and took it...but it sure put a kink in the day. I am still itching, but feeling MUCH better now. Not to worry, Pop...I'm fine!

Tomorrow is our last day...so we will be up early with much to do and see! Then heading home on Tuesday! And, yes, I know I haven't posted Saturday, but I will!

Good-night!

ALOHA 3-14-10 SUNDAY part 1

2010-03-14T10:00:00.000-05:00

Yes, I know that I've skipped Saturday. I'll go back to it...but right now I just want to share our Sunday morning experience.

I came to Maui a couple of years ago with my 2 BFF, Shirl and Tina. We stayed at this hotel, and discovered that they had a morning worship service. So, as I was planning this trip I chose the same hotel and made sure we were here on a Sunday!

We met under a thatched roof, open air pavilion on the grounds of the hotel. They provide it free of charge to this ministry. This happens to be the only hotel on this part of the island that does. The ministry is run by a lady in her 70's. She became ordained, moved to Maui, and started this ministry. She marries people weekly, and has a benevolence team to help those in need, and she does this service on Sundays.

It was so neat that right in the midst of people having breakfast in the open air restaurant, people splashing in the pool, people lounging on chairs soaking up the rays, people in the bar ordering drinks...there was also a group of people worshiping and thanking the Maker and Provider of it all! God is so good. His creations are evidence of his glory.

We sang together and prayed together..people of all faiths. There was a family band who sang with ukulele. They danced the hula and led us in worship. Then we read from the Bible and heard a message on the Lord's Prayer. Such a sweet service, and God was right there in our midst!

I delight in breathing the sea air. I love seeing the trees, gnarled and twisted by the wind. I love sitting on the balcony and watching the ocean and occasionally seeing the whales in a distance as the break the surface. I love the scents of flowers in every hue. And, I love the fruits that taste so much 'fruitier' here. God is good! God is great!

I thank God for the beauty and majesty of His creation. He made this place just for me! And, you, too. And, you!

I thank Pop for making it possible for Joy and I to be here for this time together. You are a very special man. We give you honor and thanks for who you are and the legacy you live.

Gotta go! Time for the next adventure! There is one waiting around every corner...and we are trying to take advantage of every single one!

"This is the day that the Lord has made!" We intend to rejoice and be happy in it! Hope you do, too!

ALOHA 3-13-10 SATURDAY

2010-03-13T06:07:00.000-06:00

Up on Saturday with a few plans for another day of fun! And it was! Fortunately, we were there for another art show held at the Banyan Tree Park in Lahaina. It is held several times throughout the year and features some wonderful artists.

When Don and I were there 2 years ago, we bought a wonderful print on canvas that we both loved. It is now hanging in the Creek House. AND, I found some more prints today to hang in our bedroom. Just have to take them to the framers. Joy found a few pieces as well.

I know that I am getting older and forgetful, and so is Joy! But, we didn't realize, until we saw this pic that we were dressed so much alike! Great minds, you know!

When we left the art show, we decided to go Upcountry to some little towns I know of. They are located on the drive going to Hana. But, they are not too far up, so the drive is not bad at all. When you make this drive...to the town of Paia, you pass some beautiful churches. Here is one of them...it is so beautiful. And, the grounds are immaculate.

And, this is another one that sits in a fork in the road. I know it's hard to tell, but the roof is copper, and has the most beautiful verdi gris patina.

Now, this is the reason that I went Upcountry. I wanted Joy to see this view. This picture is not good, so it is hard to see what is so beautiful. The pic is a little cloudy looking, and actually I made this picture when I was there with Don. So, all the land that looks barren, is covered now with tall green sugar cane. If you click on the picture, I think it may be easier to see. I love the way the mountain comes right down to the ocean. And, the palm trees swaying against the aqua of the ocean, is so peaceful and calm. I like the angles the mountains make as they slope down to the ocean twice. I wish I had a better picture. This is my favorite scene in the whole island.

Now, the little old hippie town of Paia is also the home of my favorite restaurant on the island, Mama's Fish House. It is not just my fav, but the most popular restaurant there...so you really need a reservation. Well, after we had driven up there, we decided that we should just go by and check and see if it was possible to eat there today. We thought that since we were there early evening, there may be a chance. It was about 4:30. We asked the valet guy what the chances were and he said good, so we decided to give it a try. And, when I told the gentleman at the desk that I didn't have a reservation, he said, "No problem...I can seat you right now." And, so he did...seat us, that is. We had a wonderful table. It is open air, and very rustic. The floors are wood, but the roof is about 6 large canvas umbrellas. And, the view here is wonderful! Awe inspiring!

Notice the concrete walkway. All the leaves and impressions were hand done using real leaves.

Pics made inside...

OK, just look at this food! Joy ordered fresh Mahimahi (caught that morning) stuffed with lobster, salmon and crab. It was accompanied by fried rice, fresh corn and served on a bed of fresh asparagus.

Now, this is mine. It is a traditional Hawaiian dish called Lau Lau. It is layers of Mahimahi, Salmon and and Kahlua pork, on a bed of rice...wrapped in ti leaves, and steamed. They open the steamed package at the table, and then pour warm coconut milk, right from the shell,all over the top. It is served with chunks of sweet potatoes and taro. Also grilled fruit...banana, pineapple and mango. Divine!

And, a meal this yummy just calls for dessert to top it off.

After our dinner, we walked down to the water's edge. Here is a wonderful gathering of beautiful rocks, lava and coral.

Look at this wonderful heart shaped rock! This is where I found the other one that Tina brought back home for me and is now in my pool fountain. Joy discovered this one...but she refused to carry it home for me. I couldn't understand why she would refuse this one little request from her dearest sister. So, there it lays...until I return. Maybe I'll take an extra suitcase next time just for big rocks! :0)

Here she is...hands on hips...stubbornly refusing to help a sister out!

AND...can you believe she made this picture of me when I was in a moment of distress. No, no, I'm not dancing. I was trying to keep from falling on my rear end in the sand and rocks...and she was laughing at me!!! And, making pictures of me!!

Oh, we had a fun day! We laughed like we were 16...riding around in our silver 'cool car'...the wind whipping our hair around. Well, it didn't really whip...it's too short. Mostly it just blew straight up and out! But, I'm sure we looked really young and cool anyway!

Unfortunately, we had NO time to visit the shops in Paia and Makawao. But, it was a beautiful ride the 36 miles back to the motel. Lights were reflecting off the water, and flickers of brightness skipped up the mountains. The moon was so bright, and it cast a beam of whiteness across the dark ocean waters. I wonder if whales sleep. There! and there! It is so bright the palm trees are silhouetted against the sky. It's magical! So, we'll come back before we leave. Oh! My! Time is getting short...

ALOHA 3-12-10 FRIDAY (a day later)

2010-03-13T00:39:00.000-06:00

It is Saturday. But, I am blogging Friday, because I could not last night. It was a wonderful day, but oh, so long...and hard. If you have ever been whale hunting...you understand!

We left the motel in our fun convertible...heading for the Lahaina Harbor.

While we waited at the dock to board our boat, another boat came in from an early morning fishing catch. I know that some of these are Mahimahi, the rest are just fish.

We chose to sail with the Pacific Whale Foundation. This group is dedicated to the preservation of all marine life in the Pacific.

After we boarded we listened to the safety speech, and then the captain shared quite a bit of information with us about the whales. Very interesting!

And, I was very happy to be on this boat, with the wind in my hair, and the cool breeze upon my face, and the sun on my shoulders...yes, all was right with the world. UNTIL...I saw this sign plastered on the boat...

This is what we are hunting- Mama humpback whale and her baby humpback whale.

Here is our first sighting. Can you tell that there are 3 whales here? In the middle is Mama....and in front is Baby. Behind them both is an escort whale. HE is not there to escort the Mama and Baby and keep them safe or anything like that. Nooooo--he is there for one reason and one reason only. Procreation is his game. Shame on him for coming between a Mama and her newborn, who doesn't even know how to breathe properly yet!

Here is our second sighting...

The only thing that got shot on this hunt...other than the whales...was this shot Joy managed to take. I was telling those whales to "hang loose". I explained to them that I had only allotted these few hours to go whale hunting. I explained to them that as much as I loved being out in their element...I had places to go, things to see, and shops to conquer! This time was just for them.

And, before long...this...THIS happened! Look at this marvelous animal! Look at how she shot toward the heavens! Absolutely unbelievable! Before we could blink an eye..she was gone. Back to her home beneath the boat. Perhaps she was playing...perhaps she was showing her baby how to breach like her. Or, perhaps she heard me when I said that if she did not show herself I would have to put up with Joy crying all the way back to Alabama! I tried with all my might to get her picture...but, all I managed to capture was the spray that was left when she went back to her mothering duties. So, this is not a picture I made. But, it looked exactly like this. EXACTLY!

We saw the Mama and Baby several more times. But, not another breach like above. We did manage to see her roll through the water...and leave us with a quick flick of her fluke! Fantastic!

At one point, the captain stopped dead in the water, and cut the motors. All was quiet. Then she dropped the microphones down into the waters. And, we heard the songs of the whales. We heard them talking to one another. It was amazing! Each family group has its own song. They can always find their families. How God cares for all His creatures!

And, our adventure in the deep blue sea ended. What fun! And, awe inspiring! Such creatures, of such strength and intelligence! I love these words from Psalms. I have used them with the kids at school in the past.

"Oh, Lord, how many are your works! In wisdom you have made them all. The Earth is full of Your possessions. There is the great and wide sea, which is teeming with creatures-too many to count; living things both great and small. There the ships sail about; there is the Leviathan which You made to play there." Psalm 104:24-26

The Leviathan is, of course, the whale!

ALOHA FRIDAY A SONG

2010-03-12T23:56:00.001-06:00

A WHALING SONG

(sing to tune of G*ll*gan's Island Theme)

Now sit right back and you'll hear a tale,
A tale of a whaling trip.
That started from a tropic port,
Aboard a Pacific Whale Foundation Ship.

The sisters were mighty sailing mates
The skipper was female, too.
Sixty passengers set sail today,
Into the ocean blue.

We sailed first left and then sailed right
We sailed in circles, too.
They promised whales...Where were the whales?
Oh, my, what will we do?

Look there! No, here! Off to the right!
Is that a whale I see?
It IS a whale, and another whale...
And the baby makes it 3.

They played, they breached, they spouted spray,
They moved so very fast...
A flipper here, another there
And the fluke showed up at last.

The weather never did get rough,
We never did get tossed.
No one was scared...quite fearless all
Not a single person lost.

Now back to port and off the boat
And back now on dry land.
Such fun was had...the sisters say,
"LET'S DO IT ALL AGAIN!"

ALOHA 3-12-10 FRIDAY...part1

2010-03-12T01:49:00.000-06:00

Whale hunting is very hard work. I'm just saying.....

Good Night.

ALOHA 3-11-10 THURSDAY

2010-03-11T01:41:00.000-06:00

Today has been such a fun day! First, we hit the beach. I practiced a few cartwheels.....

Joy's not too good at flips, so she just ran....

We built sand castles...

Got our feet wet in the water...they actually called our room this morning to tell us it was not safe to be in the water today!

And, we looked for whales! Can you imagine?

Tonight, we went to a Feast. The "Feast at Lele" is similar to a luau. There are tables next to the beach, and food is served from each of the islands that came together to form the group of people known as Polynesians. The celebration continues as each of the island groups share the dances that originated in their islands.

Oh! My! These fruity drinks are so delicious!

We enjoyed watching the sun set during the feast!

Tomorrow...taking a boat early to find those whales! Don't have any idea what to do is we find them...just make a picture, I suppose.
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FYI: I have the best daughter-in-love in the world! She is tops! She has fixed casseroles for those poor men we left behind, and tonight, she cooked supper for all of them at my house! She's checking on Pop since we are out of town and making sure he has what he needs! Suzanne, thank you, my dear! You're a gift from above. I love you!

ALOHA 3-10-10 WEDNESDAY

2010-03-10T01:26:00.000-06:00

Joy and I got up early this morning and were ready to be picked up at 7:30. We took a day long trip around the island to the town of Hana. This is way up in the mountains...the rain forest area. Such a beautiful area. However...600 hairpin turns and 51 one lane road in a drive of 36 miles is a little stressful! Can you say 'weary'? We are exhausted. So I am going to share some of our pics, and sign off.

We saw such lush greenery on our trip. It was so beautiful! What these places must have looked like when the first explorers came here! I can't imagine!

This is a eucalyptus tree. The trunks are so colorful!

Beautiful fern growing out of a rock! This is such an unusual place for plant life. There is almost nothing that can not be grown somewhere in Maui. And, many things that would bloom only once on the mainland bloom several times a year here. Things that will not bloom any where else,do great in this soil!

A beautiful black sand beach!

The surf here is quite rough due to all the lava rock in the water. It is actually churning all the time. Dangerous to go out on these rocks! Have you ever seen Pappilion? This is the cliff Dustin Hoffman jumped off of to make his escape! Think he survived these waters?

Here is a very beautiful church close to this rough water. In the last tsunami...not the one last week! Every thing on this peninsula was wiped away and washed out to sea for several miles inland. But, the church stood...and stands still. It is made of lava rock...and dates back many years when building practices were not what they are today. Very windy!

This is the door step into the church...moss covered except for where feet have scraped it clean.

A painted rock holding another door open.

Can you see how hard the wind is blowing?

Even the birds are not flying...when it is this windy, it blows them off course...so they sit it out! Smart birds!

It was cool and rainy and windy on us all day. Of course, part of the time we were in the rain forest, so it should have been rainy! The weather these past few days has been really strange. Unusual for it to be this cool. And, the workers here at the hotel say they can not remember a time when it has been this windy. We really did not bring clothes for this kind of coolness. Ya know what that means, don't you? We have got to do a little shopping! Darn! I hate that!

Recently they have gone for 9 weeks without rain...even in the rain forest. The water falls had all dried up and the creeks were not full. So, I will not complain about the weather. When it rains...the pools and creeks fill up...and the beauty is breath taking! It is so amazing seeing how the world God created is self sustaining. It really needs no help from us...in an untouched and undefiled area.

We travelled about about 160 miles today on our bus. We went to Hana, the rain forest, 2 state parks, a winery, and a black sand beach!
We had a wonderful lunch in Hana at a cattle ranch! What a day!

We're thinking of doing this tomorrow!!! Just kidding, Pop!

ALOHA 3-9-10 TUESDAY

2010-03-09T19:36:00.012-06:00

"The earth is the Lord's, and all its fullness, the world and those who dwell therein. For He has founded it upon the seas, and established it upon the waters." Psalm 24:1-2

TUESDAY...what a beautiful day to be in Maui! God is so good! His creation here is glorious!

We slept till about 9 this morning, and after making ourselves presentable, went to explore our surroundings. The grounds here are exquisite! So many varieties of plant life, and all manicured so beautifully! This hotel has the distinction of being the most Hawaiian Hotel on Maui, and it is dedicated to the preservation of the ancient arts that the Hawaiian people once practiced. There are many demonstrations of the arts here all through the day...lei making, weaving, hula,which I am quite good at, :) carving,etc. And at all times of the day, there is live music. Traditional Hawaiian music, ukulele, slack key guitar...just delightful!

We went out on the beach for a while this morning. While the water is as beautiful as any I have ever seen...the sand leaves much to be desired. Nothing beats the white sandy beaches of Panama City and Destin, Florida! Now THAT is pretty sand. This is more like dirt. However, there are some beaches with black sand which comes from the volcanoes, and also green and red sand beaches that are colored by the coral and minerals in certain areas. These are quite unique!

We had to go into town to get our tickets for our various excursions, and then we did a little shopping. And, now we are resting before our trip to the theater tonight. There is the most wonderful live production showing the myths and legends of the Hawaiian people in regards to the way the island was formed and settled. This is the 3rd time I have seen it, and I am so excited for Joy to see it as well. There are many of the authentic Hawaiian chants and dances, a little Cirque de Solei, and quite a bit of humor!

I'll check back in with you when we get back. I'm going to put my feet up for a while, and listen to the sweet sounds of Hawaiian music wafting through my window!

Back now from the theater. The show was fabulous and I enjoyed it as much as I did before! Joy thought it was wonderful, too. I knew she would love it! She always copies me!!!

Off to bed now. We have a 7:00 call in the morning for a tour we are taking. I'll have some great pics for you tomorrow!

NOTE TO MY FELLOW BLOGGERS: I am not doing any blog reading this week, even though I am blogging from here. So, I will be back to visit when I return!

ALOHA 3-8-10

2010-03-08T15:08:00.004-06:00

Pop was at my house early Sunday morning to take Joy and I to the Dothan airport. He waited with us until the plane left. Standing outside by the gate, we saw him waving at us and wishing us well!

We flew to Atlanta, then to LA, then on to Maui...arriving here abut 11 last night. We made our flight just fine...and even watched some of the Oscars on the plane. Also, I finally got to the The Blindside too!

So, this is the view from our balcony. Joy and I were really tired. We got up this morning...and looked outside to make sure we were in the right place! It was dark when we got here, so we had to be sure. We then both went back to sleep!
I suppose we are not quite as young as we once were...in body. But in our minds...we're 2 young girls set down in this Paradise God created, and we intend to enjoy every minute and every inch of this island!

So, we're outta this room and on to ADVENTURE! I'll be back with you soon!
Love to all our family and friends! MAHALO to Pop!

ALOHA 3-8-10 MONDAY

2010-03-08T00:45:00.000-06:00

Oh how beautiful this place is!! What a joy to spend the day in Paradise! There is nothing so wondrous as the creations of our Father! His wonders are so evident in this place!

Joy and I left the room this morning...well actuallY, it may have been afternoon. But, who cares....this is Paradise! We first had our 'chariot' delivered to us. You probably would call it a Mustang Convertible. And we set out on our first adventure! We went to the town of Lahaina...and began exploring. Lahaina has origins go back to at least the 16th century. It's ancient name was Lele. But, the name Lahaina means 'relentless sun'. It has become renowned for its scenic beauty and temperate climate. In early days, it was a whaling port until the missionaries came and tried to run all the sailor's out of town as they were 'corrupting their young girls.'

I must be honest and tell you that there is still much there today to corrupt young
girls...like sister and me! No sailors...but plenty of jewelry stores, fine stores like Tiffany's, Rolex, and Louie Vuitton, as well as souvenirs of every shape and description. Lots of shoes...lots of purses...lots of T-shirts. And, macadamia nuts...covered in milk chocolate or dark chocolate or coconut and chocolate! Such temptation! Oh My!

We shopped around for a while, and sat and watched the ocean and the boats out in the harbor. Then we headed back to the car and began driving back to the motel. We stopped to get some drinks and food for the room, and realized that we were hungry! This is the fun place we had lunch...The Hula Grill. It's on the beach, had live music, and great food! We both had grilled mahimahi...delicious!

And here are Joy's feet on the floor!

Next to the place we ate is an large outdoor mall, and since we were rested and full, we walked around for a while. Turns out they were having a hula show in their central courtyard...so we made our way to get a seat. And we discovered the dancers were all children and teenagers. And, they were GREAT! And, so, so cute!

We had to leave before it was over because we were freezing! It gets pretty cool at night this time of year. And, now we're back in our rooms...looking over our treasures.

It's been a wonderful day! And, so will tomorrow!

I'M OUTTA HERE...

2010-03-07T05:00:00.001-06:00

When you read this, I will be here. I left this morning with my sister, Joy.

When I look out of my airplane window this evening...this is what I will see...

When I get off the airplane, I will see this...

And, I will wear only these shoes...

And, this is what I will be looking at at night...

AND...I am taking YOU along for the ride...hope you can hula! Be looking for me...I'll check in with you soon.

...and I will be tonight!!! Thanks, Pop!

DOING A LITTLE 'GATHERING'...

2010-03-06T06:00:00.005-06:00

I find myself doing a little 'gathering' here in the Deep South, where it should be warming up but it was below freezing this morning! Here's what I have so far:

First up is a couple of suitcases...

Then a big floppy hat to hide under...

You just can't be in the sun without eye protection...

my new ipod shuffle, from Adam, is filled and ready to go, courtesy of Alex. My boys take good care of their unsavvy Mom! {My shuffle is hot pink}

And, a Lynne recommended book!

Gathering can be such fun!

SAMC Foundation Heart & Soul Gala 2010

2010-03-05T11:55:00.002-06:00

Here is a slideshow that my dearest son Adam put together for the Heart & Soul Gala, held by the SAMC Foundation.

The following is taken from the organizations website.

The Medical Center Foundation was created as a public charity in May 2006 to help raise funds and healthcare need awareness for Southeast Alabama Medical Center while advancing the humanitarian mission of the regions' 420-bed medical facility and its affiliates.

Governed by a 20-member Board of Trustees, who serve without compensation, the Foundation invites partnerships among individuals, groups and businesses interested in ensuring quality medical care is always available to the communities served by Southeast Alabama Medical Center. The doors to the Foundation officially opened in March 2007 as part of the hospital's 50th anniversary celebration.

The Foundation funds both present and future equipment, technology, facility expansion and program needs to meet the health and wellness demands of the growing regional community. We invite you to learn more about Southeast Alabama Medical Center and its services by visiting www.samc.org

Perfection Photography

KILLER WHALE

2010-03-04T08:07:00.004-06:00

This article is presented for your information only. I thought it was quite interesting...considering Sea World is continuing to use Tilica in its shows. I do not know exactly how I feel about this. Was the animal only doing what a killer whale does? Is it the fault of Sea World for expecting wild animals to behave according to learned behaviors in human situations? Sea World has said that the whale would die if released back into the ocean, as it has none of the hunting and feeding experiences that whales in the sea learn from birth. They also say that he is very useful for breeding.

Here is the article:

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Sea World Killer Whale Must Die, Bible Insists

By Lester Haines •

Posted in Bootnotes, 4th March 2010 11:21 GMT

The revelation that Tilikum - the killer whale which last week lived up to its species' name by killing SeaWorld trainer Dawn Brancheau - had killed before, prompted much debate as to whether the tragedy could have been avoided.

In 1991, Tilikum was involved in the death of Keltie Byrne at an aquarium in Victoria, British Columbia. After his transfer to SeaWorld, he was implicated in another death - that of a man who'd "apparently sneaked into SeaWorld after hours to swim with the whales" and was "found draped dead across his back", as the Orlando Sentinal puts it.

Well, two lives could have been saved "if the counsel of the Judeo-Christian tradition had been followed" back in 1991, according to this insight into Biblical provision for dealing with murderous animals.

Bryan Fischer of the American Family Association notes: "Says the ancient civil code of Israel, 'When an ox gores a man or woman to death, the ox shall be stoned, and its flesh shall not be eaten, but the owner shall not be liable.' (Exodus 21:28)"

You ignore this at your peril, because if your ox kills again, then "'the ox shall be stoned, and its owner also shall be put to death.' (Exodus 21:29)"

Mercifully, not even Fischer wants SeaWorld management executed for Tilikum's multiple murders, and in a suitably modern American-style take on the Judeo-Christian tradition suggests that "if I were the family of Dawn Brancheau, I'd sue the pants off SeaWorld".

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I think that my opinion would be to continue to care for the whale and use him for breeding, but refrain from using him in any shows . I do think Sea World has a responsibility to care for the whale...but, for me, 3 strikes-you're out. He should not be used in shows. What do you think?

A LITTLE EYE CANDY

2010-03-03T13:12:00.003-06:00

Did March come in like a lion or a lamb at your house?

Would you join me for lunch out under the wisteria? It smells divine!

Love everything about this pic. Lime-one of my favorite colors.

How fun would it be to have this retreat in your backyard? A good book, my fav magazines, a tall glass of sweet tea with lemon, and a few chocolate chip cookies...I could stay there all day.

Chandeliers? No...Hangeliers! Made with clothes hangers! Strange.

If anyone knows where I can buy this chair, let me know! I want to curl up in it! I like the print, the style, the rolled arms...everything!

What does this scream????? SPRING!!!!! Doesn't it look like a big bird's nest?

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THANKS FRIENDS!! I appreciate all you advice on my hydrangeas! When they start blooming beautifully this year, I'll share them with you! You're the best!

CALLING ALL GARDENERS

2010-03-01T15:15:00.004-06:00

Let me be perfectly honest here, my friends. I am about as good a gardener as I am a cook...just so you know where I'm coming from.

I have had great success doing large container gardens. But, when things go into the ground...that's where my trouble starts. The only thing I have ever grown well in the ground were hostas...and my mother actually picked out the spot and helped me put them into the ground. Those I left at our other house, though I do want to go and get some of them to move over here. They came from my Grandmother's yard in NC. I have always wanted a yard with lots of large hydrangeas growing...so large that I could pick some every day and never pick them all. I dream big! And, so we planted several bushes when we had the yard landscaped. They bloomed last year, and were beautiful. But, all I did was enjoy them. God handled the rest.

So, here's my question. They look all brown all the way down from the dried flowers to the ground. Should I cut them back now, or will I cut off the new growth? They look dead to me. And, maybe they are...what with us HAVING SNOW ON THE GROUND FOR 2 DAYS HERE IN THE DEEP SOUTH!!!! I don't want them to be dead. And, if I need to do something to them, I know I should probably be doing it about now. Here it's been sunny and in the 60's...so spring is definitely on the way.

I would so appreciate some help. Thanks for taking pity on this sad wanna be gardener.

BIBLE CAKE

2010-02-28T16:23:00.006-06:00

Let me be the first to say it (cause I know that some of you that know me in real life are already thinking it)...I did not make this cake and I do not intend to make this cake. But, I know that some of you really like that sort of thing :). So, if you decide to try this, I'd love to hear about it.

What's that you say? You do not have the time to look up all the references? Well, I don't want to spoil anyone's fun...so if you want the challenge of looking up the ingredients yourself...DO NOT READ ANY FURTHER. If just the thought of trying to figure this whole puzzle out makes you want to run screaming into the night...the deciphered recipe is below.

BIBLE CAKE

1/2 c. butter
2 c. sugar
2 tbs. honey
6 eggs
1 c. flour
2 tsp. baking powder
Spices to taste
1 tsp. salt
1/2 c. milk
2 c. figs
2 c. almonds
2 c. raisins

Beat the butter, sugar, and honey until light. Beat the 6 egg yolks and add. Add flour, baking powder, spices, and salt alternately with the milk. Fold in figs, almonds and raisins, then add the 6 egg whites beaten stiff. Bake 2 hours in greased 10" tube pan at 300F. Makes 28 servings.

No. No, I still do not intend to make this cake!

RUNNING ...so to speak...

2010-02-26T17:45:00.011-06:00

I started out the day, yesterday, with a mission...see my friends for breakfast...get a hair cut...visit TJM*XX....go to Dr.....purchase at Office store...purchase book at the Book store...stop by W/D for Alex... I am his official grocery-getter. (years ago when my boys were quite a bit younger, we had a station wagon. A REAL station wagon. You know the ones that were as long as a train, and the back seat made into more seats...or laid flat for grocery getting...or young-uns sleeping. It was yellow with 'real wood' on the side! And, I was QUEEN OF THE ROAD in that thing! Oh, my, it was a big, big, car.
My boys and all the other kids in the neighborhood called it The Grocery Getter! And, EVERYTIME I pulled out of my driveway, what ever child happened to be outside would have the responsiblility of yelling to every house within shouting distance, "There goes that Grocery Getter!" Except Ian...the baby...he would yell,"DERE GOES DAT GO GETTER MOMMY!" Whichever..the whole neighborhood was made aware of my comings and goings.) (I once took my mother, my mother in law, my sister, and 5 grandchildren in that tank all the way to NC, which was 13 hours driving time...on a good day---we did not pick a good day. We had the first unplanned stop about 20 miles from home. For some reason my 2 youngest boys figured that since I was driving, all the teaching and training and rules and decent behavior was not necessary because WE.WERE.PACKED.LIKE.SARDINES.INTO.THE.GROCER.GETTER.

I warned a few times and then I came to my senses...this was not going to get better and we were less than an hour into the trip. I pulled off the road...we were in the country...not much traffic. I walked down a little dirt road until I found a bush that was growing the most wonderful switches. It was covered in switches...so, I decided to 'borrow' a few. And, I, the boys and the switches had a quick review lesson of proper behavior. AND, one of the swiches decided to travel along with us. It was placed in a prominent place...easy for all to see!)

Back to the present...I did quite a bit of running! I met my friends for breakfast. Before I even got there, I knew that my lower tummy area was in some distress. And, boy was it! And, it got more distressed. But, I was able to visit with Kathy, Judy, and Ann....between runs to the bathroom!

The girl who cuts my hair called me and said she was ready for me...so I left quickly and made the run to the salon.

I hurried to TJM, but did not buy anything. Really! I ran into my friend,Dawn, and we chatted a while. I really miss her...and all the girls I worked with! It was nice to catch up a little.

I went to the Dr., who put a shot in my back, up near my shoulder. FUN.

But, at least my irritable bowel is feeling much calmer now. Got my book...I'm gonna save it to read on a trip coming up.

And stopped by the grocery store. Got Alex's list of THINGS I HAVE TO HAVE.

And my running is over. The only thing moving on me is my fingers. And, that is all I can tell you about today.

RUNNING

2010-02-26T07:31:00.002-06:00

If you have to 'run around' today....be sure to look cute and have fun!

Oh, and take a friend, if you can.....it makes the journey so much nicer!

PARADISE

2010-02-24T17:24:00.002-06:00

It has been sooooo cold and damp and dreary here today. I think it would be nice to wake up here tomorrow. My favorite place in the world...Maui.

CHOICES

2010-02-23T21:15:00.004-06:00

There are not many times at this stage of life, that I am called upon to face a dilemma. It's not often that there is a choice to be made that causes me to weigh the situation. Not often am I called upon to list the pros and cons of what I am facing in order to make the best decision.

Really, all of the hard decisions that I face...have already been faced. I know the right answers, and I know what to do. I do not even have to think about most of them anymore. And, that makes my life easier.

However...a dilemma has presented itself to me today, that I have no experience in dealing with. I have never come up against this exact choice before...so I have nothing to fall back on. I am going on instinct here. There is nothing I can read to help me decide. And, whichever way I decide...someone is going to be left out. And, I am going to be the one doing the suffering. Why must life be so hard?

And, so...I must decide...and I must decide quickly...there is a time limit. It is possible that you may have dealt with something similar, so let me explain...

Tonight...at 7:00...

All 3 of these shows come on! All at the same time! Life, it seems, has dealt me a cruel blow!

OK...I have a DVR, so I can record one of them. And, truth be told, it will not REALLY matter if I miss American Idol. Actually at this stage of the game, it's really hard for me to keep them all straight anyway. I tend to enjoy it better when I start watching when it gets down to the top 10. So, that takes care of that...and I'm down to 2 choices.

LOST...I have been watching since the beginning...and everything that happens now is tying the story up. They are laying the groundwork for the big mysteries to be solved.

OLYMPICS...I am not much on most of these games. Especially the little bumper car things that go around the track by themselves...does it count if they get into their little cars the quickest? And, why do they have to push themselves off? Couldn't they have pit crews like at the Nascar drivers do?

And the skiing...who knew there were so many different ways to go down a hill? Some times, they are alone...then groups of 2...or 4. Sometimes they have ramps to propel them skyward. And, on the way down they twist and spin and twirl. Sometimes they follow a track...and sometimes, they take a break in the middle and shoot at some targets with the guns they are carrying on their backs....which doesn't seem all that safe to me...but no one asked me.

I suppose if you were a hockey fan, those games would be exciting to watch...but, I'm not.

What I am a fan of, though, is the figure skating. I love watching them as they slide and glide and twist and turn and fly over the ice. I wonder how they get their bodies to rotate like they do . I wonder how they manage to keep from tripping over their own feet...or their partners.

So, that's where we are...take Idol out...that leaves skating...and Lost. Skating and Lost...Lost and Skating.

Can you guess which one I chose?

EDITED TO ADD---I watched LOST! And, that was the right decision. All of the girls that I wanted to watch came on after LOST was over!

ROOTS

2010-02-23T16:37:00.005-06:00

I have nothing clever to say about this picture. It was just so captivating!
Gives new meaning to the words...tree house...doesn't it?

HAPPY 101

2010-02-21T17:05:00.001-06:00

Many thanks to my friend, Jewel, at Musings from the World of Jewel
for this lovely award. If you don't know Jewel, she is quite an extraordinary young woman. Working on her college degree, her heart is dedicated to the Lord's work. She has a true heart for spreading the gospel and reaching the world for Christ.

And, so, I am to list 10 things that make me happy.

1...My sweet daughter-in-love is a 3rd grade teacher. I can count on my phone ringing almost every day between 3:30 and 4:00 as she calls to check in with me.

2...Seeing my nightlight ON if I have to get up during the night. (Someone, who shall remain nameless, thinks I am old enough NOT to need it on and tends to turn it OFF after I go to sleep) It's not nice to fool with the Queen of the House!

3...I still have a Christmas Tree up in my studio. It is my rustic twig tree decorated with nature items. It makes me happy to look at it...so I think I will, until it doesn't!

4...Going to a bookstore...with no limits on my time!

5...Watching Joy playing the piano at church.

6...Watching LOST with Alex. We've watched it together since the beginning.

7...Having the correct change...to the penny!

8...A Diet Cherry Coke with extra syrup...at Sonic. Shhh! Don't tell Diet Dr. Pepper.

9...The promise of Spring!

10..My Pop!

Thanks again, Jewel!

SNOW BIRDS

2010-02-19T16:20:00.007-06:00

All of our snow is gone, and for sure it won't be back till I'm an old lady! And, that will be a good long while!!! But, I ran across these birds in the snow and thought I'd share. They look so cold, don't they? Be sure to notice where the blue jay flew into the snow...it looks like angel wings!

Hope you and all God's creatures are warm tonight!

GREEN.........PLEASE ?!!!

2010-02-18T14:59:00.003-06:00

This is what I want to see. GREEN! Lots and lots of green!

MAKING UP

2010-02-17T11:40:00.001-06:00

This is the moisturizer I have used for years. Once I found it, I've never used anything else. Because it works on my dry skin! Nothing else ever did, and I tried many. So, I am a lifetime user!

I have always used a liquid foundation from Clinique also. And, I was very pleased. But, the last time I went in to buy makeup...the clerk showed me this. And, I guess I was in a "let's try something new" mood. I bought it, and tried it, and I'm sold!

Here is the information that went along with it...
NEW Superbalanced Powder Makeup SPF 15
"Smart" technology keeps dry areas comfortable, oily areas less shiny. No-waste grinder dispenses skin-defending vitamins with each twist. Fresh-shaved mineral powder clings evenly to skin. Lasts for up to 8 long hours. Includes antibacterial brush.
Skin Types: All
Formula: Loose Powder
Coverage: Moderate
Benefits: Balances combination skin, Long wearing, Mineral enriched, Natural skin-perfecting look, Oil control

Friends, this makeup is great! I love it. I love the coverage, I love how long it lasts, I love how quickly it goes on. I did have to get a big brush...this little one just doesn't cut it. I bought a big, fat brush at the drugstore.

Since I have retired, I am home much more than usual. And, I have a tendency to not bother with makeup and hair and the like. But, this is so quick...there's no reason not to brush it on...add a little blush...and I'm done. Of course, if I am going out, I'll do my eye makeup, too. (Naturally Glossy Mascara by---Clinique, of course)

Just wanted to pass this along because I tend to just stay with products that are tried and true and that I know work...especially when it comes to cosmetics. And, sometimes, there can be new products that are actually better. This one has been for me.

What about you? Do you have products that you feel a loyalty to? Products that you always buy and use? Share, please....

BLURRY

2010-02-15T06:54:00.000-06:00

Last week, it snowed here. We were expecting it, and looking forward to it. I even found myself waking up during the night to look out the window to see if it had started. I watched it and marveled at it, and thrilled to see it...all by myself. When I could stand it no longer, I went to wake Alex up. Somehow I knew that it was much more likely that he would be excited about it than Don. As it turned out, he was already awake...but had not even bothered to look outside. Boys! Men! I'll just never understand them!

Anyway, he was so gracious to come and sit on the couch with me and look out the big picture window in his apartment. It is the largest one in our house and it looks out over the pool. The snow falling was beautiful...just beautiful. I'm sure there is much to be said about the fact that it is something that we have seen so rarely. When it floats down from as far up as you can see...it is mesmerizing!

Well, we watched for an hour or so. It was a sweet time spent together with my son. As we sat there talking about first one thing and then another...and always back to the snow...Alex said some things to me that touched me so deeply.

"If it had snowed last year, I would not have been able to see it." (No, at this time last year, he was legally blind)

"Do you know how wonderful it is to be able to SEE?" (I don't, for I have always been able to see. Even though my own eyesight is quite poor...I have always been able to see what I wanted with glasses.)

"Mom, I am so blessed! So blessed! I can see! I can see each of those snowflakes! I can see how many there are! I can see them when they fall! "

"Do you see that bird nest up there?" I remarked to him that I knew it had to make such a difference to be able to be able to see the branches and the leaves in the trees. He then went on to tell me something that I had never heard him say before.

"Mom, before my eyes were fixed, it was just like someone had filled my eyes with V*aseline. I always felt like like I was trying to see through it. But, now it is like someone wiped all the V*aseline out of my eyes!"

Oh, Alex, I am so happy that you can see. I am so happy that God choose to heal your eyes. I am so happy that He worked all this out in His time and in His way. I am blessed as well.

But, as much as I am blessed by the fact that you can see...I am just as blessed by the fact that you recognize that this gift came from God. Blessed that you realize that every good gift in our lives is from Him. Blessed that you don't take it for granted.

So revel in it! Thrill to it! And, use your eyes to see all the beauty there is in this world. God made it all for us to enjoy! Take the time to see it all...and take the time to say "Thank-you!"

But, don't count on seeing much more of that beautiful snow 'round these parts!

THE GREATEST OF THESE...

2010-02-14T09:52:00.000-06:00

Know what day it is? Love Day! Valentine's Day!

How do we learn to love?

Guard your heart...keep it tender and sweet...

A beautiful verse! But, notice...there is a condition before the promise!

The greatest 'love story'...

Remember...

Hope you have enjoyed my "HEARTS WEEK". I have had fun putting it together! It is amazing how many things you can find with the 'heart' theme.

There has been so much focus on 'love' this week...looking for ways to do things for others, ways to show our love, ways to do that 'little bit extra' to show others how we feel about them. Let us try to keep that focus as we continue through this year. We would all be better off for it!

Hope you and yours feel loved today!

HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY !

FRIDAY...HEARTS ALIVE !

2010-02-13T13:12:00.001-06:00

All of these 'HEART' markings were natural occurances...

Perky Penguins...

Pretty Puppy...

Porky Pig...

Bossy Bull...

Classy Crane...

Cute Cow...

SNOW DAY

2010-02-12T17:30:00.001-06:00

OK...I realize that 'big' is relative...but for us here in the deep South...it's BIG!
Just indulge me...we're mighty proud of our 'big' snow. The last time it snowed any where near this amount was in 1993!

MORNING...

AFTERNOON...

Amazing how the snow in my yard managed to form this lovely heart!!! Imagine that!!
I wonder if it has anything to do with my blog posts this week...

HEARTS...ALL OVER THE WORLD

2010-02-12T07:46:00.003-06:00

ARGENTINA...a small island...

CROATIA...chain of tiny islands...

FIGI...secluded island and beach

GREAT BARRIER REEF...coral island...

OHIO, USA...lake in the preferred shape...

SPAIN...small forest...

USA, SOUTH ALABAMA, DOTHAN, MY BACKYARD...tiny patch of moss...

THURSDAY...HEARTY DRINKS

2010-02-11T06:38:00.002-06:00

Did you have anything to drink after all you ate yesterday? Well, I've gotcha covered...come on, drink up!

Let's start with the cold drinks...

A little Dr.Pepper first...maybe to wear instead of drink, though!

How about some cool Sprite with a cute little lime heart...

Now for a little pink punch...with a heart shaped ice floater...

Can I interest you in a nice cuppa tea? I can almost smell the love...

Or would you prefer some hot chocolate with heart shaped marshmallows, of course! One for you and one for me.

Need a little more 'heart' with that coffee?

How do you like the 'heart' design on this one?

And, some French Roast, of course...

And, just in case none of these are what you're thirsty for...here's a cup...you're on your own!

Well, I suppose I could offer you this!!!

WEDNESDAY...YUMMY HEARTS

2010-02-10T06:00:00.002-06:00

Let's see what's on the menu for Valentine's Day...

Off to a healthy start with a heart shaped egg...

And, some heart shaped pancakes, of course...the fruit keeps it healthy!

If you feel the need, have a little 'heart of kiwi' for a mid morning snack!

Beautiful raspberries for lunch...with a side order of chocolate heart torte!

Feeling hungry mid afternoon? Try a little 'love' and some watermelon...

Finally...Dinner time! Let's have a heart shaped pizza...no pepperoni for me...

The brownie hearts are small...you can have a couple!

Ahhhh! Dessert! Have a slice of strawberry cake...yummy!

Now, I know you've been waiting for this all day...your bed time snack! INDULGE!

It's a good thing we don't do this but once a year, isn't it?... You do just do this once a year, don't you? :)

TUESDAY...HEARTS AT THE BEACH

2010-02-09T05:48:00.001-06:00

Let's see if we can find some hearts at the beach! Bet we can!

Big Heart...

Tiny Heart...

Heart made with beach pebbles...

Natural coral hearts found in Maui...

And, this BIG heart was found in Hawaii and now resides in my pool's water feature!

Big heart, drawn in the sand. Oh, I think it's going to wash away...

Floating, glowing hearts...I may have been in the sun too long!

On the beach...seaweed heart on sand

This has me longing for warmer days, sun, sand, beach days. Can you feel that warm sand between your toes? Soon....soon....

MONDAY...HEARTS IN THE AIR

2010-02-08T05:08:00.000-06:00

In Honor of Valentines Week, I will be posting differing types of hearts all week.
Hearts...they're everywhere! Once you start looking, you can find lots of them. So enjoy! And feel free to take one, if you like!

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This heart is actually a formation found on the planet Mars, and was photographed by the Hubble Telescope.

Two birds-one heart. Would that make them 'love birds'?

Uh! Oh! Here comes another one. And, he's carrying a heart,too. Doesn't he know that 'three's a crowd'?

A great balloon bouquet! How many hearts do you see? Up! Up! and Away!

Can you see the heart on the face of the mountain? Bet it's cold up there!

Fluffy heart cloud! Watch! It won't last long!

Ah! Two heart shaped balloons flying free! Wonder where these are going to end up?

HAPPY MONDAY!

SUPER BOWL

2010-02-07T20:50:00.002-06:00

AMEN!

SIMPLE PLEASURES

2010-02-06T12:44:00.002-06:00

My friend, Angela, at Love Being A Nonny made a list of simple pleasures...thought I'd join her, and make my own list of 'happy things'...

1. Diet Dr. Pepper...

2. Clean, crisp, soft, good-smelling sheets!

3. Sunshine...lots of sunshine...shining on ME!

4. Warm syrup on pancakes.

5. A note out of the blue from one of my boys!

6. New magazines in the mailbox.

7. Girl Scout Cookies...Tag-a-Longs to be exact!

8. Getting to order a pizza the way I want it...no pepperoni...no sausage...no peppers.

9. Heated seats in the car...Ahhhhhh!

10. Loving on JT, my grand nephew!

And, these are some pictures that also make me smile...

A FEW THINGS...

2010-02-04T09:09:00.002-06:00

My husband, and my Pop both instilled into my 3 boys many fine manners. I am proud to say they are very well mannered, polite young men. One of the lessons was about hats...YOU NEVER WEAR A HAT INDOORS! Now, my boys knew this...and knew we knew this...and even though every other teenage boy in church came in with a ball cap on his head, they knew if they did either their Dad or their Pop or their Mom would be taking that hat off for them.

Now, I know this is a new day...but can some one tell me why the young men wear those wool caps everywhere? At first I thought it was a cultural thing...but now I see boys of all races wearing these ski cap /toboggan/skull caps. I mean, they have to be hot...and they wear them everywhere! I saw some of the people at the Grammys with them on the other night. I just think their heads have got to be awfully sweaty.

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I think Norah Jones has the most mellow voice ever. I just love to hear her sing. It's as if her voice changes to suit the mood and intensity of the song. She is very talented. Some of you may remember Ravi Shankir...way back when we were young. I think he was some sort of guru, and he played the sitar, I think. He's 82 now. Well, she is his daughter. Anyway, I can recommend her music highly...especially if you like music where you can understand the words!

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I hear that we are having more winter! Phil the groundhog said so. And, seems he is usually right! Do you know that PETA...(People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals) is claiming that it is unfair for Phil to have to show us his shadow once a year. They are actually calling for a ROBOT to take his place. One of his handlers said today "He's (PHIL) got it made. An air conditioned and heated home...a vet on call...all the food he needs...a safe place to stroll around free of the danger of predators--no other groundhog has it nearly this good! And, he only has to work one morning a year!"

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I think John Edwards is pathetic! He deserves nothing but disdain! Good for his wife for finally standing up to him. He'll have to pay for all the grief he caused her while she was sick with cancer. And, his baby daughter will grow up knowing her daddy wanted to hide her so nobody would know she was his. Sad, sad people. God help them all! I know there are some, but why are there not more decent, upstanding moral people in politics?

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Have you seen the commercial on TV about the dog trying to find a safe place to hide his bone? Nowhere he puts it gives him assurance. Very clever, and sweet!

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A PROLIFIC BLOGGER is one who is intellectually productive....keeping up an active blog filled with enjoyable content.

Thanks to my friend, Debby, at JUST BREATHE. I am very honored and appreciate her thinking my blog is worthy of being called 'prolific'...I do try to keep an active blog and I try to fill it with enjoyable and interesting news in addition to my family stuff, and a little inspiration. The 'intellectual' part...I'm not so sure about! :)

Visit Debby to see the cutest little dog ever. And to read her fun and interesting blog. Thanks again, Debbie.

I choose to pass this along to 2 bloggers that I feel really do meet the criteria for this award...prolific, enjoyable, and definitely intellectual. Their blogs are always so worthy of reading! No matter what post, they always inspire. Rachel spins words around like nobody's business and draws the most wonderful pictures in your mind. To hear stories about the 'real South' go see her! And, Janie, shows us places around the South that are filled with history, and interesting places. Her pictures are professional and inspiring! To see what the 'real South' looks like, go visit her.

Rachel at Lawn Tea

Janie at Southern Lagniappe

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And, finally...even though I choose not to speak about these things yet, I would humbly ask that you lift my family to the Father. Joy and I both have children that are going through some testing and trials at the moment. They are all grounded in their faith and know where their help comes from. So, please pray that they make wise decisions, that they are open to hearing the Father speaking to them, and that they are infused with strength and confidence. I appreciate it so much.

LOST!

2010-02-02T14:01:00.004-06:00

Are you a fan of Lost? Well 2 out of the 3 people in this home are more like fanatics! Alex and I started watching the show when it first came on. We've continued ever since.

I must confess, though, it has helped me tremendously to have someone explaining to me what is actually happening. Because what I thought happened didn't really happen. And, what really happened was so far from what I'd even imagined! Thank goodness Alex 'gets it'...cause I don't mind telling you, it's way too deep for me sometimes.

That being said, the characters have a way of drawing you in and making you really care about them. And, a week is a long time to wait and find out what has happened to one of your favorites! And, waiting many months is torture!

Alex is a very big sci fi fan. When I saw how much he enjoyed this show, I began getting him the complete seasons for Christmas or other occasions. So, we have all the shows up until tonight. I think that's a very good thing, too, because, when this season is over...I plan to start over from the beginning and watch it as someone who has a small clue what's going on!

If you have not watched up till now...don't watch tonight. You could never make heads or tails of it. And, you would not know if you were in the future or years in the past. Get it on Net Flix or buy the seasons, and watch it from the beginning. It is worth it. Obviously, this has been written by very clever writers. And, is the first TV series written with a fixed number of episodes. Most shows keep going as long as there are ratings, but this one was written to tell the story, and then stop.

So, this is the final year. It's gonna be good!

EDITED TO ADD: It was as good as I hoped! Many questions answered...many new questions raised! Such good storytelling!

INSIGNIFICANT

2010-01-31T18:40:00.003-06:00

Has there ever been a time that you have felt insignificant?

...a time when you felt all alone in the world?

...maybe you felt like the things you said and did did not really matter...

...maybe you felt as if you were facing a great unknown...

...or perhaps, you just felt like a small speck in the universe...

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I think we have all felt this way at one time or another. And, you may even know where to find the answers that will make you feel better. I, too, know where to find these answers...but there have been times in my life when I did not even have the strength to look for them. There have been times when I knew what these answers were...but, wondered if they were really true. If God really would do the things He says He will.

I never want to leave the impression that I have never doubted, that I have never questioned God. Because the opposite is true. I have. But, I am on the other side of those feelings now...I have been through them and learned much about my God.

I have questioned and He gave me answers. I have doubted and He has shown me where I stand. He has made me to see that He is the ONLY answer to my feelings of unworthiness or loneliness. He showed me that He always knows where I am...He always keeps track of me...I am never alone. And, NO ONE cares for me like He does.

I learned these lessons years ago, but I have felt compelled to write about some of these things today. Maybe some of you who are kind enough to visit me at Gatherings need to hear these words. Another thing I have learned is that when God nudges my heart about doing something...I need to listen.

God is good. God is trustworthy. God loves you more than anything. He proved Himself to me...and He will prove Himself to you. He keeps His promises.

So, here are a few verses that speak to me...and remind me of what I mean to Him. And, whether someone needs this now, or maybe will need it next week...I'll leave that part up to Him. He will see that whomever needs it will see it.

One more thing. If I can ever answer questions about my faith in the Lord...it would make me proud to do so. If I can help you find answers that you may need...it would be a privilege.

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"Your love, O Lord, reaches to the heavens, your faithfulness to the skies."
Psalm 36:5

"Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you". James 4:8

"How precious it is, Lord, to realize that You are thinking about me constantly" (Psalm 139:17).

"Be my rock of refuge, to which I can always go; give the command to save me,
for you are my rock and my fortress" (Psalm 71:3, NIV).

"You are my hiding place, You will protect me from troubles and
surround me with songs of deliverance." Psalm 32:7

"The eyes of the Lord are on those who fear Him, on those whose hope is in His UNFAILING LOVE, to deliver them from death and keep them alive in famine. We wait in HOPE for the Lord;
HE IS HELP AND OUR SHIELD. In Him our hearts rejoice, for we TRUST in His holy name.
May your unfailing love rest upon us, O Lord,
even as WE PUT OUR HOPE IN YOU!" Psalm 33:18

CAN I GET YOU SOMETHING TO DRINK?

2010-01-30T17:55:00.007-06:00

Looking for something else today, I ran across this old ad...

Can you read what it says? It is really hard to see even if you enlarge it...here's what I read..."HOW SOON IS TOO SOON? Not soon enough. Laboratory tests over the last few years have proven that babies who start drinking soda in the formative years have a much better chance of gaining acceptance and 'fitting in' during those awkward pre-teen and teen years.
So do yourself a favor. Do your child a favor. Start them on a strict regimen of cola and other sugary carbonated beverages right now, for a lifetime of guaranteed happiness." THE SODA POP BOARD OF AMERICA ????????AVE. CHICAGO, IL.
(next to bottle)...Promotes Active Lifestyle...Boosts Personality...Gives Body Essential Sugars. It is unbelievable to me that this could ever have printed.
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And, this ad says its drink will do almost everything...for adults or children...

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That was then...but what about now...

C*ke has issued a statement in 2009 that says...
"C*ke is "wholesome and suitable" for kids, but we understand that children are impressionable, and we respect the role of parents and caregivers in making food and beverage choices with their children. Therefore, we are committed not to directly market messages for any of our beverages to children under 12."

Yeah, those polar bear and penguins don't target children at all...

I guess it started then and continues still today. Manufacturers will promote their products to whomever they like...They will target adults and children... (remember the Mean Joe Green commercial?). The bottom line is the dollar...not what is best for us or our children. It comes down again to the fact the person responsible for YOUR child is YOU. It's up to you to make the decisions...not the ads and commercials and manufacturers.