The great paternal leader of our tribe is down and out. Don't walk so heavy, don't walk so close, don't don't don't! My Dad is down with his bad (right) leg again and even though we're pretty sure its a blood clot (he has a long and horrid history of the things) he refuses to go back to the hospital even one more time. The answer is no, no, no. The movement of air close to his leg or the vibration of the floor can set the pain in action causing much groaning and moaning and no end to the torture. At 86, he can be rather firm in his intent and still considers the rest of the tribe rather stupid and superfluous.
Mom sits and wrings her hands and weeps now and again, but don't let her fool you, she is tough as nails. The only problem is she has a concience and as a result feels guility as sin if she tells him to shut up and let's go. So, mentally she is saying those very words as he is moaning and groaning at her side.
They are both tired of life and living, tired of family and all that ensues and really would rather be ledt alone, but in our infinite wisdom, we continue to try to take care of them causing unknown despair and frustration. At the same time, they are afraid of the loneliness and abandonment. Getting old is so much harder than it looks and getting closer and closer to the end is terrifying, Christian or not - no one is ready for it to all be over.
I do not have the patience to deal with either. Called pragmatic, uncaring, self-centered, or whatever, their rudeness to others and each other is uncalled for and puts me in a state. I was raised by the best and have learned their behavior patterns well. My one desire is not be as mean and cantankerous as they are to each other and to us children. I am well aware that pain can change anyone and quickly. It can turn the most meek and mild into a rattlesnake and there is no controlling it. God bless my sister. She seems to be able to handle both of them in spite of their actions.
Regardless, Dad is down and out and Mom is forced to be nice to him and not nag, so please keep them both in your prayers. Dad has promised to visit the doctor tomorrow if he is no better and he is known for keeping such promises. You can bet he is sitting in that chair trying to figure out a new way to disguise his suffering to prevent a trip to the doctor.
Update
Press Release from the great tribal leader-
Don't get excited, I ain't gonna die. I am feeling better, but my leg still hurts. I got and walked today, but I had to drag my leg behindme a little bit. It is going to be okay. I am okay! Can't get any rest cause there are too many people here to sleep. Wouldn't be proper to tell them to go home.
So, he has spoken. The truth of it is, he doesn't want to go to the doctor tomorrow and unless he is racked with pain and can't get any relief, he won't go. Period. The end. BUT... the granddaughter is on the way home and she is bigger than the great tribal leader!Love to all . . .
Happy reading!
Belle
Wednesday, July 14, 2010
Danged Ole Rooster
Five tomatoes in five days!, that rooster is getting as many tomatoes as I am. I know I haven't written about my chickens for a while as I felt I was overdoing my excitement just a bit, but Friday when I was changing his water and cleaning his pen, our errant rooster literally flew the coop! He has marched and pranced for 5 days and once more is invading my garden. He is going in the pot, but he will probably be touch as leather.
Tuesday, July 13, 2010
Rocking In The Rain
Yesterday afternoon we were blessed with showers that lasted until well after dark. It had cooled down a bit and I took to the rocking chair to watch the rain and think. I didn't get much forward thinking done as I sat and remembered Smokey and Fireball the two family horses sticking their heads over the fence and whinnying at me. Smokey loved to share my cup of coffee with me in the mornings, but she liked it real sweet. I know, horses aren't suppose to have coffee, but like people they like what they shouldn't have. Fireball preferred apples and pears, which at the time we had plenty of in the yard, but what he really wanted was just some attention and a good scratch.
I looked at the new barn roof still shiny after several years and remembered the boys climbing onto the steep roof and sliding down onto the trampoline. They would scare me to death and they would run for the woods to save their tails from a spanking. The three older boys would run and climb for hours until they were worn out or so hungry they could no longer go.
The pecan tree that the boys would climb is still there, but the lower limb that secured their climbing rope has been long. The other climbing trees are still waiting on some little boy to take up the challenge and see how far into its branches they can go.
My daughter and her cabbage patch could be found under some low hanging tree limbs or safe inside a canopy of bushes where she had built a house for the two of them. She could play for hours with just her dolly, but when she tired of being alone she would capture one of the boys - no they didn't stand a chance - and force him to play with her and dolly for a while.
The old tomato bed, once filled with mulch and super rich dirt, now is the home of a group of red buds that I planted right in the middle of the tomato bed. The landscape timbers holding in that rich soil have since long gone and the beautiful draping limbs of the redbud is now the playhouse of my granddaughters. When those red bud seeds were planted I had every intention of transplanting them when and if they came up, but good intentions were lost to other more important things that must be done. Surprisingly, most of the seeds germinated and have now made a wonderful tree group.
Several of my beautiful old oaks have been ravished by time and weather. Lightning has claimed two and another has been hit but is still standing. It is a beautiful white oak that is so breathtaking in the spring when the little leaves first open and the morning sun shines on the leaves turning the whole tree into shimmering white and silver. It is only a moment in time for this special show only last for about three days before becoming a memory, but a memory that is well worth hanging on to.
The strong winds have taken their toll on the trees, too. Many of the older trees could not withstand the winds and their old weak roots could no longer keep them upright. Many have been toppled over the years. The apple trees are gone as is the old peach tree. With all the cedar trees in the yard and at the edge of the wood line, the apple trees don't stand a chance. The plums, figs and pears are still prolific in their production and feed the birds and squirrels as much as feeding us.
With the loss of trees, the landscape around the house has changed greatly. I have replaced several trees and have planted 4 oaks and 2 maples which are coming along nicely in the front. One maple seems to be the target of every car that comes to visit. It has been run over at least five times since its planting, but always springs back with little harm done.
I miss the smell of the baby calves that once graced our little farm, but I also remember the cold icy winters of making sure that had plenty of hay and water. On the really cold nights they were kept in the barn. They enjoy the warmth of the barn, but the call to freedom meant trouble. Many a time when the barn door was opened one would come barrelling out just to get free which meant a cold wet chase to get the rebel back to the warmth and safety of the barn.
Yes, the rocking chair and a little rain can do wonders for the mind. I enjoyed my short visit down memory lane and look forward to another trip soon.
Until next time . . .
Happy reading!
Belle
I looked at the new barn roof still shiny after several years and remembered the boys climbing onto the steep roof and sliding down onto the trampoline. They would scare me to death and they would run for the woods to save their tails from a spanking. The three older boys would run and climb for hours until they were worn out or so hungry they could no longer go.
The pecan tree that the boys would climb is still there, but the lower limb that secured their climbing rope has been long. The other climbing trees are still waiting on some little boy to take up the challenge and see how far into its branches they can go.
My daughter and her cabbage patch could be found under some low hanging tree limbs or safe inside a canopy of bushes where she had built a house for the two of them. She could play for hours with just her dolly, but when she tired of being alone she would capture one of the boys - no they didn't stand a chance - and force him to play with her and dolly for a while.
The old tomato bed, once filled with mulch and super rich dirt, now is the home of a group of red buds that I planted right in the middle of the tomato bed. The landscape timbers holding in that rich soil have since long gone and the beautiful draping limbs of the redbud is now the playhouse of my granddaughters. When those red bud seeds were planted I had every intention of transplanting them when and if they came up, but good intentions were lost to other more important things that must be done. Surprisingly, most of the seeds germinated and have now made a wonderful tree group.
Several of my beautiful old oaks have been ravished by time and weather. Lightning has claimed two and another has been hit but is still standing. It is a beautiful white oak that is so breathtaking in the spring when the little leaves first open and the morning sun shines on the leaves turning the whole tree into shimmering white and silver. It is only a moment in time for this special show only last for about three days before becoming a memory, but a memory that is well worth hanging on to.
The strong winds have taken their toll on the trees, too. Many of the older trees could not withstand the winds and their old weak roots could no longer keep them upright. Many have been toppled over the years. The apple trees are gone as is the old peach tree. With all the cedar trees in the yard and at the edge of the wood line, the apple trees don't stand a chance. The plums, figs and pears are still prolific in their production and feed the birds and squirrels as much as feeding us.
With the loss of trees, the landscape around the house has changed greatly. I have replaced several trees and have planted 4 oaks and 2 maples which are coming along nicely in the front. One maple seems to be the target of every car that comes to visit. It has been run over at least five times since its planting, but always springs back with little harm done.
I miss the smell of the baby calves that once graced our little farm, but I also remember the cold icy winters of making sure that had plenty of hay and water. On the really cold nights they were kept in the barn. They enjoy the warmth of the barn, but the call to freedom meant trouble. Many a time when the barn door was opened one would come barrelling out just to get free which meant a cold wet chase to get the rebel back to the warmth and safety of the barn.
Yes, the rocking chair and a little rain can do wonders for the mind. I enjoyed my short visit down memory lane and look forward to another trip soon.
Until next time . . .
Happy reading!
Belle
Monday, July 12, 2010
Be Very Careful
I am a Facebook fan. I really enjoy keeping in touch with friends and family via this media. I have re-connected with so many friends through this medium and on the whole it has been a most rewarding experience. I have learned, however, to be very very careful of not only what I post, but the verbiage I use in expressing myself. I have learned that what I post can easily be misinterpreted and can lead to a barrage of negative comments. I have also learned that there are different "kinds " of friends.
When I befriend someone on Facebook, I am allowing them access to my posted actions and thoughts. They are entitled to make what they want of those posts and I am left at their mercy - whether positive or negative. Sadly, most of the time the negativity takes the lead and I am left open to ridicule or worse pity. A handful of friends will make supportive comments and offer prayers up on my behalf in the proper Christian manner.
Not long ago, I received a message from someone I know of, but do not "know" accusing me of unkind comments. I have no association with this person, but have friends that are close friends of theirs and I was confused as to what she was referring to. Our mutual friends had made some unsavory comments referencing this person to me and my response was "I know the type." Big mistake, it was carried back that I had made the comments, which was totally untrue. This was confusion over the spoken word, imagine the impact if this had been written.
I have learned to keep my comments short, positive and hopefully expressive of my Christian faith. To those that I have poked fun at through any comments, I apologize profusely and will keep those comments off my posts henceforth.
Written words have the ability to make or break a person. There is no intonation available to indicate any emotion, there is no facial expressions to judge any emotion, there is just the words written down to be interpreted by the reader in any manner they see fit without the benefit of the emotion of the writer. So, be very careful of what you write and how you write. It may not be read by a supportive Christian with love in their hearts. Until next time . . .
Happy reading!
Belle
When I befriend someone on Facebook, I am allowing them access to my posted actions and thoughts. They are entitled to make what they want of those posts and I am left at their mercy - whether positive or negative. Sadly, most of the time the negativity takes the lead and I am left open to ridicule or worse pity. A handful of friends will make supportive comments and offer prayers up on my behalf in the proper Christian manner.
Not long ago, I received a message from someone I know of, but do not "know" accusing me of unkind comments. I have no association with this person, but have friends that are close friends of theirs and I was confused as to what she was referring to. Our mutual friends had made some unsavory comments referencing this person to me and my response was "I know the type." Big mistake, it was carried back that I had made the comments, which was totally untrue. This was confusion over the spoken word, imagine the impact if this had been written.
I have learned to keep my comments short, positive and hopefully expressive of my Christian faith. To those that I have poked fun at through any comments, I apologize profusely and will keep those comments off my posts henceforth.
Written words have the ability to make or break a person. There is no intonation available to indicate any emotion, there is no facial expressions to judge any emotion, there is just the words written down to be interpreted by the reader in any manner they see fit without the benefit of the emotion of the writer. So, be very careful of what you write and how you write. It may not be read by a supportive Christian with love in their hearts. Until next time . . .
Happy reading!
Belle
Friday, July 9, 2010
Thursday, July 8, 2010
My Writings
As many of you know I have been writing children's stories for over a year now. No, they are not published! I keep editing and rewriting and then editing some more. The once upon a time stand alone stories are now a chapter book. My sister, my daughter, my daughter-in-law, and my friends have read and re-read the stories and always come back with something that needs fixing. I am so glad! I hate to look like a dummy to those to who I submit my stories and I sure don't want any more rejection letters. I have found three or four agents that handle stories focusing on the "down home on the farm" stories that promote good moral decisions.
I may be pumping myself up, but the rejections I have received so far on the stand alone stories advise me it is not their type of story or genre. I have yet to be told I can't write or my story line is horrible, so picking myself up, I go back to the blank sheet and write some more. The most difficult thing I have found is to keep the verbiage on the grade level for which I am writing. It is easier to accomplish if I stay on the story than when I take a break and then come back. The story line doesn't change, I just have to re-acclimate my mind to writing at the proper level.
My problem is there are still a bunch of stories floating around in my mind following the same line as the eight or ten I have already written and I don't know how to cut off what is finished. Do I need to start a new book or let it go with what I have? It seems kind of ridiculous to start a new book when I don't have the other one published, but I have been told to keep on writing. Edit the old and start something new. So, there you have it - I am following the professional advice of these successful people and I just keep on keeping on!
Regardless of the outcome of this writing project of mine, it has been most rewarding and lot's of fun. There are some excerpts of my Belles Farm stories on my website (click on the link at the top of my blog) and some stories that I really need to go back and expound upon and edit. Some days I just start writing without thought to where I am going, so there are a few stories that need some polish.
A busy day ahead so I must run, but thanks for dropping by. Until next time . . .
Happy reading!
Belle
I may be pumping myself up, but the rejections I have received so far on the stand alone stories advise me it is not their type of story or genre. I have yet to be told I can't write or my story line is horrible, so picking myself up, I go back to the blank sheet and write some more. The most difficult thing I have found is to keep the verbiage on the grade level for which I am writing. It is easier to accomplish if I stay on the story than when I take a break and then come back. The story line doesn't change, I just have to re-acclimate my mind to writing at the proper level.
My problem is there are still a bunch of stories floating around in my mind following the same line as the eight or ten I have already written and I don't know how to cut off what is finished. Do I need to start a new book or let it go with what I have? It seems kind of ridiculous to start a new book when I don't have the other one published, but I have been told to keep on writing. Edit the old and start something new. So, there you have it - I am following the professional advice of these successful people and I just keep on keeping on!
Regardless of the outcome of this writing project of mine, it has been most rewarding and lot's of fun. There are some excerpts of my Belles Farm stories on my website (click on the link at the top of my blog) and some stories that I really need to go back and expound upon and edit. Some days I just start writing without thought to where I am going, so there are a few stories that need some polish.
A busy day ahead so I must run, but thanks for dropping by. Until next time . . .
Happy reading!
Belle
Tuesday, July 6, 2010
Unusual
My grandson and great nephew have a most unusual relationship. They are about a year apart in age and have some of the same interests. They have never lived close to each other or seen each other on a regular basis, yet during the twice a year visits they mesh totally. There is not doubt they are friends and it is uncanny how they fall into their "play" with such ease. Is this what is meant by the phrase "blood is thicker than water"?
Wouldn't it be nice if all relationships were as comforting and easy?
The past week of celebrating Independence Day was filled with eating, visiting, and remembering. Filled with love and laughter we all had a great time. Hubby even got the grill and the smoker filled up and we enjoyed a bit of everything. I liked the smoked salmon and talapia best, but the ribs, wings, roast, burgers, chops, and hot dogs were not to be ignored. Of course, I had to sample it all and the flavors were greatly enhance by brother-in-law's barbecue sauce.
I have to put in a plug here for the best marinate and basting sauce I have found. "Moore's" has both a buffalo wing sauce that is out of this world and also a steak sauce that enhances the flavor of fish, steak, and chicken without overpowering the meat's flavor. I don't precook (boil or fry) anything. Anytime you boil meat, you cook out the natural flavors stored in the bone and fat. If the meat is cooked slowly and thoroughly and kept moist (we use a spray bottled filled with olive oil, water, and vinegar) it is tender, flavorful and juicy. Then the meat is placed in a roasting pan and covered in the barbecue sauce of your choosing and return to the grill to simmer, allowing the sauce and the meat juices to mesh. It makes me hungry all over again!
I think the next big cookout will be a low country boil and I have already started gathering ingredients. This is Hubby's 50th birthday! We will try to fix him up a good pot of soup! Blast the oil spill - the cost of shrimp and crab legs are already climbing so he may be stuck with corn, potatoes, onions, and sausage. He won't mind though, it is the good company and spending time with family and friends that are important!
I hope your holiday was filled with joy. Thanks for visiting and until next time . . .
Happy reading!
Belle
Wouldn't it be nice if all relationships were as comforting and easy?
The past week of celebrating Independence Day was filled with eating, visiting, and remembering. Filled with love and laughter we all had a great time. Hubby even got the grill and the smoker filled up and we enjoyed a bit of everything. I liked the smoked salmon and talapia best, but the ribs, wings, roast, burgers, chops, and hot dogs were not to be ignored. Of course, I had to sample it all and the flavors were greatly enhance by brother-in-law's barbecue sauce.
I have to put in a plug here for the best marinate and basting sauce I have found. "Moore's" has both a buffalo wing sauce that is out of this world and also a steak sauce that enhances the flavor of fish, steak, and chicken without overpowering the meat's flavor. I don't precook (boil or fry) anything. Anytime you boil meat, you cook out the natural flavors stored in the bone and fat. If the meat is cooked slowly and thoroughly and kept moist (we use a spray bottled filled with olive oil, water, and vinegar) it is tender, flavorful and juicy. Then the meat is placed in a roasting pan and covered in the barbecue sauce of your choosing and return to the grill to simmer, allowing the sauce and the meat juices to mesh. It makes me hungry all over again!
I think the next big cookout will be a low country boil and I have already started gathering ingredients. This is Hubby's 50th birthday! We will try to fix him up a good pot of soup! Blast the oil spill - the cost of shrimp and crab legs are already climbing so he may be stuck with corn, potatoes, onions, and sausage. He won't mind though, it is the good company and spending time with family and friends that are important!
I hope your holiday was filled with joy. Thanks for visiting and until next time . . .
Happy reading!
Belle
Wednesday, June 30, 2010
Setttling In
My grandchildren have returned from summer camp in Missouri, so my anxiety level has dropped tremendously. I am so glad they are once again, if not with me, at least within driving distance of a couple of hours. I will spend time with them over the next few days and be restored once again.
My class reunion was terrific. The short visit that we shared was so enjoyable and it was a blessing to hear the testimonies of so many. The majority of our rebellious group of graduates have turned their focus toward God, family, and community (which is now worldwide). As I looked around and watched my many classmates, I realized that I only had a close relationship with a handful of people, but I considered all of them friends. I didn't detect not the first bit of animosity or trepidation of the part of my fellow classmates and everyone seemed truly happy to be part of this event.
The smiling face of Ricky T., the sparkling eyes of Mike C., the smiling faces of Carol H., Susan D., Darlene P., Mary Ann J., Pam P., and on and on, was a wonder to watch. Some of these people had not changed one bit - Carole Ann G. knows the secret to the fountain of youth - but some I would never have known. Warren H. and wife Camilla were the same as 41 years ago as was Rhonda P. Faye and Kaye exhibited the same enthusiasm as I remember in school and shared their love and excitement of the event. Next time we would like to add some of old teachers to the mix - that should add even more flavor to our pot!
I have re-established contact with these people and have no intention of losing them again. We will move on with each of our lives, but we have added a few old friends back in the mix and they fit just fine! Thank you Dawn C. for all your work, your tenacity, and your motivation to keep going and move forward.
I am now ready to move on to other projects I have put on hold. It will be a busy summer! July 4th is coming up this weekend. It is shaping up to be fun filled and busy! A lot going on to celebrate the birth of our great country. July 4, 1776 seems a long time ago, but the impact of the actions taken by our founding fathers and the dreams they had for this country will be everlasting. It took many years to attain our freedom and to establish the groundwork of this great nation. It is a time for coming together and remembering what this nation stands for amid the tumult and desperation many of our countrymen are now facing. It has been a long time since the people of this country stood behind a common goal and I am afraid there are wolves in sheep's clothing trying to get a foothold in our government.
My daughters' birthday is July 3rd so we will be celebrating double on that day. Goodness, time sure flies. It seems only yesterday that I rocked a tiny bundle to sleep while singing "You Are My Sunshine." I thank God for her and her brother. They have both taught me a lot and been a true blessing in my life.
A little bit of rain last night will put me in gear next week to get the garden worked, picked and some things replanted. With more rain in the forecast for today, it will be a busy time. Any ideas on how to get rid of the poison ivy that is growing like wildfire in my yard this year? I know - very carefully! I have several shoots that have really taken over, but as allergic as I am to the sap, I have been hesitant to try to move it to the burn pile.
Well, I have much to do and little time to accomplish all the things on my list. Until next time . . .
Happy reading!
Belle
My class reunion was terrific. The short visit that we shared was so enjoyable and it was a blessing to hear the testimonies of so many. The majority of our rebellious group of graduates have turned their focus toward God, family, and community (which is now worldwide). As I looked around and watched my many classmates, I realized that I only had a close relationship with a handful of people, but I considered all of them friends. I didn't detect not the first bit of animosity or trepidation of the part of my fellow classmates and everyone seemed truly happy to be part of this event.
The smiling face of Ricky T., the sparkling eyes of Mike C., the smiling faces of Carol H., Susan D., Darlene P., Mary Ann J., Pam P., and on and on, was a wonder to watch. Some of these people had not changed one bit - Carole Ann G. knows the secret to the fountain of youth - but some I would never have known. Warren H. and wife Camilla were the same as 41 years ago as was Rhonda P. Faye and Kaye exhibited the same enthusiasm as I remember in school and shared their love and excitement of the event. Next time we would like to add some of old teachers to the mix - that should add even more flavor to our pot!
I have re-established contact with these people and have no intention of losing them again. We will move on with each of our lives, but we have added a few old friends back in the mix and they fit just fine! Thank you Dawn C. for all your work, your tenacity, and your motivation to keep going and move forward.
I am now ready to move on to other projects I have put on hold. It will be a busy summer! July 4th is coming up this weekend. It is shaping up to be fun filled and busy! A lot going on to celebrate the birth of our great country. July 4, 1776 seems a long time ago, but the impact of the actions taken by our founding fathers and the dreams they had for this country will be everlasting. It took many years to attain our freedom and to establish the groundwork of this great nation. It is a time for coming together and remembering what this nation stands for amid the tumult and desperation many of our countrymen are now facing. It has been a long time since the people of this country stood behind a common goal and I am afraid there are wolves in sheep's clothing trying to get a foothold in our government.
My daughters' birthday is July 3rd so we will be celebrating double on that day. Goodness, time sure flies. It seems only yesterday that I rocked a tiny bundle to sleep while singing "You Are My Sunshine." I thank God for her and her brother. They have both taught me a lot and been a true blessing in my life.
A little bit of rain last night will put me in gear next week to get the garden worked, picked and some things replanted. With more rain in the forecast for today, it will be a busy time. Any ideas on how to get rid of the poison ivy that is growing like wildfire in my yard this year? I know - very carefully! I have several shoots that have really taken over, but as allergic as I am to the sap, I have been hesitant to try to move it to the burn pile.
Well, I have much to do and little time to accomplish all the things on my list. Until next time . . .
Happy reading!
Belle
Friday, June 25, 2010
Homesick
My granddaughter called me from summer camp last night. My grandson and granddaughter are at summer camp in Missouri and I have missed talking to them this week. I was so-o-o-o excited to hear from her and listen to all the fun things they have done this week. I then my mind started racing - was she okay? Did I hear a slight tremble in her voice? Was she homesick? Did something scare her? You know, a thousands questions starting swirling through my mind and of course, the worry. They will be home in 4 days and 3 nights. Will she be okay until then?
Then I started rationalizing. They are more than half way through the week (6 days) and she has done fine until now. She is just starting to get homesick. She is ready for her Mom and Dad and the comfort of knowing they are close by. She is just ready to be at home!
My sister and I spent 2 weeks every summer with my Aunt and Uncle in Alabama. The first 4 days were fine, but after that it was all down hill! I wanted to go home and had no intention of even trying to have a good time. My Aunt and Uncle had no children and there was absolutely nothing to do at their house. Their yard was small and filled with bird feeders and bird baths and vine covered arbors, which were perfectly beautiful, but not practical when you put two country girls in the middle of them. My Uncle's idea of curing our boredom was to put my sister and I to work in the yard. Boy was that a mistake! Anyway, my homesickness during this time had nothing to do with missing my Mom and Dad and a whole lot to do with missing my stuff and the great outdoors. I just wanted to be in "my" space!
They will be home on Monday and I will breathe a sigh of relief! I look forward to seeing them next weekend.
Until next time . . .
Happy Reading!
Belle
Then I started rationalizing. They are more than half way through the week (6 days) and she has done fine until now. She is just starting to get homesick. She is ready for her Mom and Dad and the comfort of knowing they are close by. She is just ready to be at home!
My sister and I spent 2 weeks every summer with my Aunt and Uncle in Alabama. The first 4 days were fine, but after that it was all down hill! I wanted to go home and had no intention of even trying to have a good time. My Aunt and Uncle had no children and there was absolutely nothing to do at their house. Their yard was small and filled with bird feeders and bird baths and vine covered arbors, which were perfectly beautiful, but not practical when you put two country girls in the middle of them. My Uncle's idea of curing our boredom was to put my sister and I to work in the yard. Boy was that a mistake! Anyway, my homesickness during this time had nothing to do with missing my Mom and Dad and a whole lot to do with missing my stuff and the great outdoors. I just wanted to be in "my" space!
They will be home on Monday and I will breathe a sigh of relief! I look forward to seeing them next weekend.
Until next time . . .
Happy Reading!
Belle
Tuesday, June 22, 2010
What will you do when your parents are gone?
I have often wondered what affect the loss of my parents will have on my life. I talk to one or both of them every day, but only see them at the most weekly. I look at my mother who has lost both parents and is the only surviving sibling and wonder what her life must be like. I am not dependent on my parents or my sister, but the knowledge that they are there gives me emotional and psychological support. I know I can pick up the phone and talk to any of the three. What would I do if that was not an option?
I have often wondered what affect the loss of my parents will have on my life. I talk to one or both of them every day, but only see them at the most weekly. I look at my mother who has lost both parents and is the only surviving sibling and wonder what her life must be like. I am not dependent on my parents or my sister, but the knowledge that they are there gives me emotional and psychological support. I know I can pick up the phone and talk to any of the three. What would I do if that was not an option?
Monday, June 21, 2010
Early Summer
If Summer has just arrived, what would be the appropriate name for the past two weeks of 90+ temperatures and breath taking humidity with no rain? I know most of Georgia has received some kind of rainfall, but not on my side of the mountain. I must be in some kind of trough where the rain refuses to fall. Neighbors on the north and neighbors on the south have gotten good soaking showers while we sit here and swelter as the garden slumps further and further to the ground. If this is a taste of the rest of the summer, then we are in for a scorcher.
The only thing thriving is the heat loving pests! As an outdoor person, I am fighting at the bit to get back outside and piddle in my flowers, herbs, and garden. Have you noticed that city folks have flower gardens, whereas country folks have flowers and gardens. Country folks don't have flower gardens, they have vegetable gardens or just plain gardens. The same applies to the yard. City folks have a lawn and country folks have a yard. Country folks cut the grass while city folks calls lawn maintenance to trim the lawn. When I lived in the city, I was a thing of wonder to my neighbors. I cut the grass, trimmed the shrubbery, planted my flowers and even put in a few tomato plants. How was I to know that women in the city didn't do such things. To each his own! I do things that bring me joy and I do like to share a smile with others.
I have been on a hiatus from writing for the past few weeks. No new ideas have poked their way into my sprightly brain until last night and then "Katie" appeared and she is trying to develop into a story line. We'll see where she goes, but she does not seem to be in a hurry to get put on paper.
We enjoyed a family get together this weekend with nieces from central Georgia. As always we had a great time with all the babies and children. We ate lots of good fish, hush puppies and cole slaw along with hand pattied hamburgers and some delicious hot spicy sausage. My brother-in-law can find the best of the best in the food line. His jalapeno ranch dip was just right with the fresh veggies from the garden. We never even got to the watermelons which are still on ice and just waiting to be cut. Some homemade ice cream would have gone well with the peach cobbler, but it wasn't really missed either as everyone was stuffed. We had a lot of laughs as we did the "remember whens" and took home new memories to be shared at a later date.
The kids enjoyed the pool even though the sun was blistering to the adults. I am already looking forward to Hubby's birthday in July (he'll turn 50 this year) when hopefully they will all return for more good food and fellowship. Where in the world does the stamina go when you get older? I can't ever remember the sun bothering me as a child, but it sure takes its toll on me now.
I have been nostalgic this week. I think our upcoming class reunion has sparked some memories that were lost in the everyday shuffle of life. As a child and young adult, almost all of my social activities were centered around our Church and sometimes were extended to a few other kids in our community that attended other churches. (Another city/country thing - City people live in a neighborhood whereas Country people live in a community.) I found that classmates are not the only people that have disappeared from my life. Some friends that were really close and I truly loved and enjoyed being with are gone from the area and I have no idea which direction they have taken. Some of this is my fault as I am typically a home body. I hate funerals and as weird as it sounds, funerals are a major contact source in this day and time. I think maybe this year I will have to attend the Reunion at our church and see just how many I can reconnect with, or at least locate, before I have to attend their funeral.
Before this gets too morbid I am signing off. Until next time . . .
Happy Reading!
Belle
The only thing thriving is the heat loving pests! As an outdoor person, I am fighting at the bit to get back outside and piddle in my flowers, herbs, and garden. Have you noticed that city folks have flower gardens, whereas country folks have flowers and gardens. Country folks don't have flower gardens, they have vegetable gardens or just plain gardens. The same applies to the yard. City folks have a lawn and country folks have a yard. Country folks cut the grass while city folks calls lawn maintenance to trim the lawn. When I lived in the city, I was a thing of wonder to my neighbors. I cut the grass, trimmed the shrubbery, planted my flowers and even put in a few tomato plants. How was I to know that women in the city didn't do such things. To each his own! I do things that bring me joy and I do like to share a smile with others.
I have been on a hiatus from writing for the past few weeks. No new ideas have poked their way into my sprightly brain until last night and then "Katie" appeared and she is trying to develop into a story line. We'll see where she goes, but she does not seem to be in a hurry to get put on paper.
We enjoyed a family get together this weekend with nieces from central Georgia. As always we had a great time with all the babies and children. We ate lots of good fish, hush puppies and cole slaw along with hand pattied hamburgers and some delicious hot spicy sausage. My brother-in-law can find the best of the best in the food line. His jalapeno ranch dip was just right with the fresh veggies from the garden. We never even got to the watermelons which are still on ice and just waiting to be cut. Some homemade ice cream would have gone well with the peach cobbler, but it wasn't really missed either as everyone was stuffed. We had a lot of laughs as we did the "remember whens" and took home new memories to be shared at a later date.
The kids enjoyed the pool even though the sun was blistering to the adults. I am already looking forward to Hubby's birthday in July (he'll turn 50 this year) when hopefully they will all return for more good food and fellowship. Where in the world does the stamina go when you get older? I can't ever remember the sun bothering me as a child, but it sure takes its toll on me now.
I have been nostalgic this week. I think our upcoming class reunion has sparked some memories that were lost in the everyday shuffle of life. As a child and young adult, almost all of my social activities were centered around our Church and sometimes were extended to a few other kids in our community that attended other churches. (Another city/country thing - City people live in a neighborhood whereas Country people live in a community.) I found that classmates are not the only people that have disappeared from my life. Some friends that were really close and I truly loved and enjoyed being with are gone from the area and I have no idea which direction they have taken. Some of this is my fault as I am typically a home body. I hate funerals and as weird as it sounds, funerals are a major contact source in this day and time. I think maybe this year I will have to attend the Reunion at our church and see just how many I can reconnect with, or at least locate, before I have to attend their funeral.
Before this gets too morbid I am signing off. Until next time . . .
Happy Reading!
Belle
Tuesday, June 15, 2010
Late Spring Update
A very fruitful two weeks!
I have been to a Tax Assessors class and learned a lot of very useful information. We had a veteran instructor who enlightened us on the many property tax laws and the effects of exemptions on the property taxes we pay. I was pleased with my week as I learned a lot and also met a lot of interesting and wonderful people.
My venture into hatching duck eggs was successful in one way and not so in another. The first duck to hatch was wonderful. No, not at first as he was covered in slimy goop and floppy, but in a few hours time he was waddling slowly and his down dried to a wonderful cream color. His entire life lasted only 36 hours as I found him stiff as a board with no clue as to what had ended his little life. He ate and drank within the first 12 hours and seemed fine when I last checked on him/her. I still have a couple of eggs in the incubator, but am not very hopeful on their hatching after so many days. I am not one that is easily discouraged and intend on trying again.
I have raised the roof over the death of two of my squash plants. It appeared that some varmit had played around in the hill and destroyed my plants. I checked again yesterday and found some foul looking bug chomping away at the stem right at ground level. As much as I dislike Sevin, the garden got a good dusting with the offenders getting an extra good dose. Probably not going to be able to save the hill, but maybe they won't spread to the neighboring plants. I will replant to replace the lost plants in a week or so to keep a good supply coming all summer. Potatoes, beans, squash and beets have been delicious and we will soon have some broccoli and eggplant. Hurray for summer food!
My hummingbirds are emptying their feeder every two days now and with the onset of higher temperatures and longer days I will soon be filling the feeder every day. They are so beautiful to watch as they zip and zoom around the porch and through the trees.
We have Catalpa worms for the first time in 6 years. Water helps everything! Almost all the leaves on one tree have been devoured and half of another tree. We will be catching lots of fish this year! I know the Catalpa is the best fish bait in the world and from experience I know catfish love them!
My grandson is moving forward by leaps and bounds in Boy Scouts. I am so proud of the work he has done. The Boy Scout organization gives boys an extra boost in preparing them on their journey toward adulthood. He has set his goals and is following through towards attaining those goals. Congrats to Joseph!
I am looking forward to the next two weeks. A family cookout this weekend and a visit with neices I don't get to see near often enough and then my class reunion. I can hardly wait to see friends I have not seen or heard from in 41 years.
I am reading a most enjoyable book by Dan Brown -The Lost Symbol. Intriguing!
A little apart here - I have heard through the grapevine that much fun has been made of my simple writings. I am a simple person - which does not mean I am simple minded. My blog is written so my friends and far away family can keep in touch with my daily doings and is not written in order to expound with hate filled comments the situations of others and their lives. If I can bring a smile to your face even if produced as a result of derision, I have accomplished a goal. My hope is to make everyone smile! I can't change your heart, but I can put a smile on your face.
Thanks for visiting and until next time . . .
Happy reading!
Belle
I have been to a Tax Assessors class and learned a lot of very useful information. We had a veteran instructor who enlightened us on the many property tax laws and the effects of exemptions on the property taxes we pay. I was pleased with my week as I learned a lot and also met a lot of interesting and wonderful people.
My venture into hatching duck eggs was successful in one way and not so in another. The first duck to hatch was wonderful. No, not at first as he was covered in slimy goop and floppy, but in a few hours time he was waddling slowly and his down dried to a wonderful cream color. His entire life lasted only 36 hours as I found him stiff as a board with no clue as to what had ended his little life. He ate and drank within the first 12 hours and seemed fine when I last checked on him/her. I still have a couple of eggs in the incubator, but am not very hopeful on their hatching after so many days. I am not one that is easily discouraged and intend on trying again.
I have raised the roof over the death of two of my squash plants. It appeared that some varmit had played around in the hill and destroyed my plants. I checked again yesterday and found some foul looking bug chomping away at the stem right at ground level. As much as I dislike Sevin, the garden got a good dusting with the offenders getting an extra good dose. Probably not going to be able to save the hill, but maybe they won't spread to the neighboring plants. I will replant to replace the lost plants in a week or so to keep a good supply coming all summer. Potatoes, beans, squash and beets have been delicious and we will soon have some broccoli and eggplant. Hurray for summer food!
My hummingbirds are emptying their feeder every two days now and with the onset of higher temperatures and longer days I will soon be filling the feeder every day. They are so beautiful to watch as they zip and zoom around the porch and through the trees.
We have Catalpa worms for the first time in 6 years. Water helps everything! Almost all the leaves on one tree have been devoured and half of another tree. We will be catching lots of fish this year! I know the Catalpa is the best fish bait in the world and from experience I know catfish love them!
My grandson is moving forward by leaps and bounds in Boy Scouts. I am so proud of the work he has done. The Boy Scout organization gives boys an extra boost in preparing them on their journey toward adulthood. He has set his goals and is following through towards attaining those goals. Congrats to Joseph!
I am looking forward to the next two weeks. A family cookout this weekend and a visit with neices I don't get to see near often enough and then my class reunion. I can hardly wait to see friends I have not seen or heard from in 41 years.
I am reading a most enjoyable book by Dan Brown -The Lost Symbol. Intriguing!
A little apart here - I have heard through the grapevine that much fun has been made of my simple writings. I am a simple person - which does not mean I am simple minded. My blog is written so my friends and far away family can keep in touch with my daily doings and is not written in order to expound with hate filled comments the situations of others and their lives. If I can bring a smile to your face even if produced as a result of derision, I have accomplished a goal. My hope is to make everyone smile! I can't change your heart, but I can put a smile on your face.
Thanks for visiting and until next time . . .
Happy reading!
Belle
Wednesday, June 2, 2010
GHS '69 Reunion
Graduation brings to an end the wonderful growing up years of our lives. By the time we graduate from high school, we should be prepared to go to work, maintain a vehicle, and establish a home - not a house, a home. The friends and acquaintances that we have spent the last 12 years of our life with are all going in different directions. We cry, hug and promise to keep in touch, but as the summer wears on, those contacts are gone - sometime for good. We never know what God has in store for these fellow graduates and when or if we will see them again.
These fellow graduates have big dreams and big plans for their future no matter what their field of interest. Some will get married and start a family, while others will go on to college or tech school and receive more training. It doesn't matter where they go or what they do, they will still be part of your past - your history.
The men that graduated in the late '60s were facing the draft unless that were deferred and many waited with baited breathe to see if they would be called to fight in Viet Nam. Others planned on joining their choice of the armed services when they graduated. Jobs for women in the 1960s were limited compared to the options available today. Secretaries, bookkeepers, teachers, clerks, bank tellers, doctors, lawyers, or work at one of our many mills were the extent of the choices.
Now we are in 2010. We have been out of high school for over 40 years and here are a few things we have learned.
We've come a long way, baby!
Happy reading!
Belle
These fellow graduates have big dreams and big plans for their future no matter what their field of interest. Some will get married and start a family, while others will go on to college or tech school and receive more training. It doesn't matter where they go or what they do, they will still be part of your past - your history.
The men that graduated in the late '60s were facing the draft unless that were deferred and many waited with baited breathe to see if they would be called to fight in Viet Nam. Others planned on joining their choice of the armed services when they graduated. Jobs for women in the 1960s were limited compared to the options available today. Secretaries, bookkeepers, teachers, clerks, bank tellers, doctors, lawyers, or work at one of our many mills were the extent of the choices.
Now we are in 2010. We have been out of high school for over 40 years and here are a few things we have learned.
- money doesn't bring happiness
- you can't buy health
- work is what you do not you who you are
- friends are not always going to be there
- you will change more in the two years after graduation than in all the 12 years leading up to graduation
- nothing is forever
- think before you do something stupid - some mistakes just don't go away
- keep in touch with God - the more communication you have the better
- expand - your friends, your interests, your knowledge
- parenting doesn't come with a manual - your parents made mistakes, you'll make mistakes, and your children will make mistakes - get over it
- those people who thought they ruled the world, only ruled their world not yours
- if you don't die, you will get old
- be nice - it is harder than being mean, but more people like you
- stand up for what you believe in
- if you are not proud of who you are then something is wrong
- nobody is perfect, be happy with yourself
- nobody else can live your life - it is yours and yours alone - just be ready to talk to God about it one day
- don't waste precious time
- laugh and cry and then get on with it
- it is the small stuff that completes the big picture
- don't let someone else tell you what a good time you had
- protect your memories, they put a smile in a rainy day
- watch the hummingbirds and listen to the crickets
We've come a long way, baby!
Happy reading!
Belle
Sunday, May 30, 2010
Dangerous Plants
My little chihuahuas are very important to me even if they do get on my guest's nerves with their barking. They are with me day in and day out and when they came to live with me, they became part of my family. They live here - my guests don't.
Last week I was researching sago palms. Mine are dried and brown after a very harsh winter and I needed to determine if I should give them some time or dig them up and replace them with something more hardy. In the process I found that Sagos are poison to animals, especially the seeds. Thankfully my little ones don't eat plants, but I was glad to find this information so I could be more vigilant.
After finding this tidbit of information, I proceeded for research other poisonous plants and foods and found an interesting site from Squido with much information on poisons, symptoms and treatment. The Humane Society also has a good site for dangerous plants and foods as does The Earth Clinic. My chihuahuas will eat most any food dropped on the floor, so now I have to be more careful of the tidbits they consume. I once had a horse, Smokey, that love to share a cup of coffe with me every weekend morning. I didn't realize that coffee could be detrimental to his health, but that danged old horse is still alive and kicking (just not so high). The best we can figure, Smokey is close to 25 years old.
What animals like to eat, is not always what they need to eat. I know a few humans with the same problems. For those of you who treasure your animal friends, please check out these sites.
Happy reading!
Belle
Last week I was researching sago palms. Mine are dried and brown after a very harsh winter and I needed to determine if I should give them some time or dig them up and replace them with something more hardy. In the process I found that Sagos are poison to animals, especially the seeds. Thankfully my little ones don't eat plants, but I was glad to find this information so I could be more vigilant.
After finding this tidbit of information, I proceeded for research other poisonous plants and foods and found an interesting site from Squido with much information on poisons, symptoms and treatment. The Humane Society also has a good site for dangerous plants and foods as does The Earth Clinic. My chihuahuas will eat most any food dropped on the floor, so now I have to be more careful of the tidbits they consume. I once had a horse, Smokey, that love to share a cup of coffe with me every weekend morning. I didn't realize that coffee could be detrimental to his health, but that danged old horse is still alive and kicking (just not so high). The best we can figure, Smokey is close to 25 years old.
What animals like to eat, is not always what they need to eat. I know a few humans with the same problems. For those of you who treasure your animal friends, please check out these sites.
Happy reading!
Belle
Happy Friday!
Oh how my girls are growing! Today, my middle granddaughter graduated from pre-K. Her learning journey has just begun and I can't wait to see her inquisitive little mind develop and grow. Of course she is smart, being my granddaughter, but now we will watch and wait for the twists and turns her little mind takes.
My oldest granddaughter turned 8 on Friday. Growing much too fast for Nanna, she is growing into quite a young lady. Demure and quiet, she will astound you with her voracity when provoked. Looking very elegant and poised she can climb at tree, hike, and tussel with the best of them and then grab her fishing pole ready to bring in the big one.
My grandson, now 12 is changing rapidly. Not only is his facial features becoming more refined, his mind is working differently as his body is growing. So proud of the young man he has become!
My youngest is the joy of all of them, as she still has enough baby to drive you crazy, but filled with love and happiness that will melt your heart. She absorbs everything the three older ones say or do. She has my temper and will throw a fit in a minute, then fling her little arms around your neck and make you do exactly what she wants.
I am so enjoying my grandchildren this weekend, but while they are fishing and camping, I wanted to share a minute with you. My wish for all is a fun filled happy Memorial Day. I thank each of you who served in our armed services for the part you have played in keeping our country free and safe. To the families that have lost a loved one in service, I wish for you peace in the knowledge that your loved one gave themselves for the freedom and rights of others.
Happy Memorial Day to All!
Belle
My oldest granddaughter turned 8 on Friday. Growing much too fast for Nanna, she is growing into quite a young lady. Demure and quiet, she will astound you with her voracity when provoked. Looking very elegant and poised she can climb at tree, hike, and tussel with the best of them and then grab her fishing pole ready to bring in the big one.
My grandson, now 12 is changing rapidly. Not only is his facial features becoming more refined, his mind is working differently as his body is growing. So proud of the young man he has become!
My youngest is the joy of all of them, as she still has enough baby to drive you crazy, but filled with love and happiness that will melt your heart. She absorbs everything the three older ones say or do. She has my temper and will throw a fit in a minute, then fling her little arms around your neck and make you do exactly what she wants.
I am so enjoying my grandchildren this weekend, but while they are fishing and camping, I wanted to share a minute with you. My wish for all is a fun filled happy Memorial Day. I thank each of you who served in our armed services for the part you have played in keeping our country free and safe. To the families that have lost a loved one in service, I wish for you peace in the knowledge that your loved one gave themselves for the freedom and rights of others.
Happy Memorial Day to All!
Belle
Tuesday, May 25, 2010
Sago Palms, Hostas, and More
We all thought the Sago palms were done for and I had planned to take them up next week. I have been patiently waiting for new growth to appear after a horrendous winter, but I was tiring of the brown fronds. Surprise, surprise - New green fronds started showing themselves this past weekend.
This week we were blessed with Hubby's lilly opening up. It was a little slow this year, but the blooms are beautiful and more are ready to pop!
This giant hosta was a Mother's Day gift from my son and his family. It is gorgeous and in the fall I will divide and share. I love new plants and additions to my little garden! Still have to get some mulch around this beauty so it will survive the hot days ahead.
The hostas I put in last year have tripled in size and have bloomed also. Bulbs and tubers really thrive here.
My rosa rugosa is spreading its roots and new shoots are coming up all around. I am excited that it likes its soil and light enough to expand. Sorry I don't I have pics to share, but I will post more later.
Saturday, May 22, 2010
Kids Are Coming!
My quarterly visit from my grandchildren from the north is happening this coming week! This is really a joke as I do get to see them about every 3-4 weeks, but it just seems like it is only 4 times a year!
My Boy Scout grandson and my clogging granddaughter seem to grow at least 3 or 4 inches between each visit. Growing up and will soon beg not to have to go to Nanna's. Thank you Jesus for a loving and caring daughter that drags them south to make sure Nanna and PawPaw are okay! My children are the most wonderful children in the world and I am blessed that they are both good providers and loving parents.
I am almost done with my major chores so my time can be spent visiting with them and storing up until the next visit.
My Boy Scout grandson and my clogging granddaughter seem to grow at least 3 or 4 inches between each visit. Growing up and will soon beg not to have to go to Nanna's. Thank you Jesus for a loving and caring daughter that drags them south to make sure Nanna and PawPaw are okay! My children are the most wonderful children in the world and I am blessed that they are both good providers and loving parents.
I am almost done with my major chores so my time can be spent visiting with them and storing up until the next visit.
Friday, May 21, 2010
Thursday, May 20, 2010
. . . and it came to pass, after weeks of hoeing, weed pulling, fertilizing and waiting, the garden brought forth green string beans, squash, beets and lettuce and the family ate heartily giving thanks to God for the provisions of FRESH vegetables.
YES! I have fresh vegies with more on the way! Tomatoes are growing plump and juicy while the eggplant is slowly putting on growth. The zucchini and cucumber are spreading out and putting on blooms as are the bell peppers. I haven't grown broccoli before, but my plants are beautiful, but oh how I wish I had put in onions.
YES! I have fresh vegies with more on the way! Tomatoes are growing plump and juicy while the eggplant is slowly putting on growth. The zucchini and cucumber are spreading out and putting on blooms as are the bell peppers. I haven't grown broccoli before, but my plants are beautiful, but oh how I wish I had put in onions.
Wednesday, May 19, 2010
Friday, May 14, 2010
My week at a glance
I will start with an update on my chicks - growing fast and trying to settle into their "pecking order". Some days I have gathered a half dozen eggs, most days I gather 4 which keeps us full of eggs. My son's duck was beheaded by some creature from the depths of his lake, so I am now incubating 4 duck eggs. Wish me luck!
The garden is beautiful! I had a wonderful salad from the lettuce out of the garden and yesterday I fixed up some beets. Hubby and I do like beets. The green beans are blooming which means beans are not far behind. Same with the tomoatoes and yellow neck squash. Haven't had a problem with insects so far, but I am well aware that they will soon be flocking into my paradise. The broccoli, bell peppers and egg plant look very healthy, now if they produce I will be extremely happy. I wish I had some onions planted as their price has sky rocketed over the last few weeks. Never thought I would see yellow onions reach $4.00 for a 3 pound bag! My asparagus bed is shaping up nicely and I am pleased with all the new shoots. All ten crowns of asparagus survived my ignorance so I am blessed!
My rosa ragosa is spreading and blooming and looking lovely. Roses are at their prine this year and the beautiful pink bloom was a little over 6 inches in diameter and smelled divine! I received two rubber trees for Mother's Day and they are coming right along. I have to do some research on these babies as I know absolutely nothing about them. They have made a lovely addition to my garden, however and seem to fit right in to the landscaping I already had going!
I have encountered a few more little black snakes than usual this year. I don't know if the chickens are luring them into the yard or the lushness of the plants. With all the rain we were blessed with this year, the foliage on shrubs and plants alike are thick and beautiful. The little snakes are driving my chihuahuas crazy and we are experiencing a lot more barking and whining than usual. The two little redneck dogs just can't understand a snake.
I have enjoyed the search for fellow classmates this week. I am trying to locate some hard to finds from our graduating class as hopefully we will have a class reunion this summer. We have lost so many from our class and we really need to get together soon. It has been exciting to find these people and talk to them. Most I have not seen or talked to for 40 years. It is strange to be so close to someone during school and then lose all contact. I look forward to seeing these friends and re-establishing contact.
Haven't done much writing for the past several weeks, but plan to get back to it soon. My quiet time has been short and interruptions frequent, but things will settle down again soon.
I would like to thank those of you who have offered up prayers for my cousin injured in Afghanistan. He is stateside for now, but it looked pretty serious for a few days. It looks like some surgery will be needed before he returns to his unit, but for now he is safe and healing nicely and spending some time with his wife, kids and dad. Keep praying that his recovery will be complete.
The lettuce must be picked (mine isn't on the recall list), so I will leave you for now. Thanks for dropping by and until next time . . .
Happy reading!
Belle
The garden is beautiful! I had a wonderful salad from the lettuce out of the garden and yesterday I fixed up some beets. Hubby and I do like beets. The green beans are blooming which means beans are not far behind. Same with the tomoatoes and yellow neck squash. Haven't had a problem with insects so far, but I am well aware that they will soon be flocking into my paradise. The broccoli, bell peppers and egg plant look very healthy, now if they produce I will be extremely happy. I wish I had some onions planted as their price has sky rocketed over the last few weeks. Never thought I would see yellow onions reach $4.00 for a 3 pound bag! My asparagus bed is shaping up nicely and I am pleased with all the new shoots. All ten crowns of asparagus survived my ignorance so I am blessed!
My rosa ragosa is spreading and blooming and looking lovely. Roses are at their prine this year and the beautiful pink bloom was a little over 6 inches in diameter and smelled divine! I received two rubber trees for Mother's Day and they are coming right along. I have to do some research on these babies as I know absolutely nothing about them. They have made a lovely addition to my garden, however and seem to fit right in to the landscaping I already had going!
I have encountered a few more little black snakes than usual this year. I don't know if the chickens are luring them into the yard or the lushness of the plants. With all the rain we were blessed with this year, the foliage on shrubs and plants alike are thick and beautiful. The little snakes are driving my chihuahuas crazy and we are experiencing a lot more barking and whining than usual. The two little redneck dogs just can't understand a snake.
I have enjoyed the search for fellow classmates this week. I am trying to locate some hard to finds from our graduating class as hopefully we will have a class reunion this summer. We have lost so many from our class and we really need to get together soon. It has been exciting to find these people and talk to them. Most I have not seen or talked to for 40 years. It is strange to be so close to someone during school and then lose all contact. I look forward to seeing these friends and re-establishing contact.
Haven't done much writing for the past several weeks, but plan to get back to it soon. My quiet time has been short and interruptions frequent, but things will settle down again soon.
I would like to thank those of you who have offered up prayers for my cousin injured in Afghanistan. He is stateside for now, but it looked pretty serious for a few days. It looks like some surgery will be needed before he returns to his unit, but for now he is safe and healing nicely and spending some time with his wife, kids and dad. Keep praying that his recovery will be complete.
The lettuce must be picked (mine isn't on the recall list), so I will leave you for now. Thanks for dropping by and until next time . . .
Happy reading!
Belle
Monday, May 10, 2010
Sunday, May 9, 2010
Happy Mother's Day
Today is the day of Thanksgiving for the Mother's of this world. For me it is a day of Thanksgiving for my children and grandchildren. The times of getting up in the middle of the night, getting through the terrible twos, the sometimes terrific threes, the sickness, the injuries, the stubbornness, all the trials and tribulations of childhood are forgotten by the smiles on the faces of just one accomplishment. The minutes, hours, and days of happiness and joy brought about by a child are irreplaceable.
I am proud of the people that my children have become in spite of my inexperience. My children have provided me with the greatest gift I could ever receive and that is my grandchildren. To my son-in-law and daughter-in-law, thank you for being the parents that you are and instilling in my grandchildren the joy of living and the love of God.
I thank you!
To the rest of you Mother's and Grandmother's out there I hope you have a peaceful, joy filled day. Some of you have children and grandchildren serving our country on foreign lands and will not be seeing them this year on this special day. My prayer for you and them is for a safe and happy day. May they return to you unharmed with a smile on their face and joy in their hearts.
Happy Reading!
Belle
I am proud of the people that my children have become in spite of my inexperience. My children have provided me with the greatest gift I could ever receive and that is my grandchildren. To my son-in-law and daughter-in-law, thank you for being the parents that you are and instilling in my grandchildren the joy of living and the love of God.
I thank you!
To the rest of you Mother's and Grandmother's out there I hope you have a peaceful, joy filled day. Some of you have children and grandchildren serving our country on foreign lands and will not be seeing them this year on this special day. My prayer for you and them is for a safe and happy day. May they return to you unharmed with a smile on their face and joy in their hearts.
Happy Reading!
Belle
Monday, May 3, 2010
The first month of Spring has been most delightful even though I seem to have floated through it with a hazy mind either from the antihistimines or packed sinus cavities. I could, however, see through the haze and what I saw was trees that leafed out seemingly overnight, the hostas that burst forth from the dark and dry grass, and the roses which grew inches in a days time. We all attribute this abundance to the gross amounts of rain we have had over the winter and the rush of hot days before Spring actually arrived. Thankfully the heat only abounded for about a week before the cool days and cooler nights returned and provided comfortable "working outside weather." We had an extremely harsh winter and much had to be done to straighten out gardens, lawn, and trees.
Of course, along with those plants that we were delighted to see came the weeds that sprouted with profusion all over the yard and in the garden. One of the more pesty plants I have been fighting for a couple of years is a variety of sand spurs. We ordered a load of sand and the sneaky seeds of this sand spur were delivered along with it. As I love to shed my shoes in summer, this has caused endless pain and frustration. Last Spring I "butt"crawled across the back yard pulling each and every little plant I could find destroying any sign of a spur. This year, they are back with a vengeance and seem to have spread to new areas. Looks like my only respite will be some villianous chemical that hopeful will not harm the wildlife nor my wildflowers and herbs.
I am anxious for a visit from my cousin and his wife as she just completed the "Master Gardener" program. I hope she has some suggestions for my yard and even though we have different taste and style, I value her suggestions and observations. Due to her creativity she always has innovative ideas for the yard and garden.
May is shaping up into a very busy month as several "get-togethers" are in the works, but it looks as if the weekends will be rain filled so we will adjust and continue to move forward. Until next time, I am going to enjoy this rain and cool air . . .
Happy reading!
Belle
Of course, along with those plants that we were delighted to see came the weeds that sprouted with profusion all over the yard and in the garden. One of the more pesty plants I have been fighting for a couple of years is a variety of sand spurs. We ordered a load of sand and the sneaky seeds of this sand spur were delivered along with it. As I love to shed my shoes in summer, this has caused endless pain and frustration. Last Spring I "butt"crawled across the back yard pulling each and every little plant I could find destroying any sign of a spur. This year, they are back with a vengeance and seem to have spread to new areas. Looks like my only respite will be some villianous chemical that hopeful will not harm the wildlife nor my wildflowers and herbs.
I am anxious for a visit from my cousin and his wife as she just completed the "Master Gardener" program. I hope she has some suggestions for my yard and even though we have different taste and style, I value her suggestions and observations. Due to her creativity she always has innovative ideas for the yard and garden.
May is shaping up into a very busy month as several "get-togethers" are in the works, but it looks as if the weekends will be rain filled so we will adjust and continue to move forward. Until next time, I am going to enjoy this rain and cool air . . .
Happy reading!
Belle
Saturday, May 1, 2010
I have had a most enjoyable few days with my oldest grandchildren. My grandchildren never cease to amaze me with the way their wonderful minds work. None of the four are alike, but all seem to play well together and other than vying for the attention of either their PawPaw or myself, entertain each other well. I believe my grandson will probably be a writer (he has the most vivid imagination) or any attorney. He informed me this weekend that he was descended from Al Capone through my grandparents - he explained it all to me as we all had a great laugh over his tale, but alas, there is no way. He and my youngest granddaughter can take a little bit of information and build a huge story out of it - the facts get a little scrambled, but the story is there.
I could sit and listen to them for hours. It is so amazing at the things that draw their attention and how they process, interpret and relay information. I am so pleased at their level of maturity and ability to ask intelligent questions and comprehend information. Yeah, I know I am prejudice, but that is the perogative of a grandmother.
As I had business at the Clerk of Court's Office this week they accompanied me. They had a great time meeting friends at the Courthouse, touring the building, and getting a quick explanation of what each office was responsible for and how the court system worked . Then we made a trip to the Old Jail Museum and was given a great tour courtesy of the curator. The curator is the most knowledgeable person around for the history of our area and she is not even a native of our county.
The following day, they toured the local cemetaries, located an old tobacco drying barn and last but definitely not least visited the new Super Wal Mart in Forsyth. It was a full afternoon, but an enjoyable one. My grandson enjoyed meeting family almost everywhere we went and was even invited to a cousin's house to ride a goat. I am sure that goat will still be waiting when he makes his next trip south and the invitation will still be open.
It is a secure and comforting feeling to know that so many people know you or are related to you in an area. It gives you a connection that provides stability and security. It is something that is so often taken for granted, but is so precious.
Thanks to the ever expanding flock of chickens, there is work to do tomorrow, so I will close for now. Until next time,
Happy reading!
Belle
I could sit and listen to them for hours. It is so amazing at the things that draw their attention and how they process, interpret and relay information. I am so pleased at their level of maturity and ability to ask intelligent questions and comprehend information. Yeah, I know I am prejudice, but that is the perogative of a grandmother.
As I had business at the Clerk of Court's Office this week they accompanied me. They had a great time meeting friends at the Courthouse, touring the building, and getting a quick explanation of what each office was responsible for and how the court system worked . Then we made a trip to the Old Jail Museum and was given a great tour courtesy of the curator. The curator is the most knowledgeable person around for the history of our area and she is not even a native of our county.
The following day, they toured the local cemetaries, located an old tobacco drying barn and last but definitely not least visited the new Super Wal Mart in Forsyth. It was a full afternoon, but an enjoyable one. My grandson enjoyed meeting family almost everywhere we went and was even invited to a cousin's house to ride a goat. I am sure that goat will still be waiting when he makes his next trip south and the invitation will still be open.
It is a secure and comforting feeling to know that so many people know you or are related to you in an area. It gives you a connection that provides stability and security. It is something that is so often taken for granted, but is so precious.
Thanks to the ever expanding flock of chickens, there is work to do tomorrow, so I will close for now. Until next time,
Happy reading!
Belle
Tuesday, April 27, 2010
One of my favorite blogs is Life's Little Garden written by Valerie. I have written Valerie a couple of times because her blog has so blessed my life and brought back so many memories of my Grandmother. Valerie's Granny has been sitting on the right hand of God for a week now and my wish is that Valerie has found peace and comfort in that thought. It doesn't fill the empty spot left in her heart, but it helps it to heal faster.
Granny was a delight to visit with via Valerie's blog. Valerie, I hope you continue to write your stories and we look forward to your memories of Granny.
Granny was a delight to visit with via Valerie's blog. Valerie, I hope you continue to write your stories and we look forward to your memories of Granny.
I have been down and out for a couple of days with allergies. How could something so small be the cause of so much pain? It is an ongoing problem, but I am on the mend and ready to get back to it.
The chicks are progressing wonderfully. We had a scare on Sunday when the daughter-in-law found a "huge" chicken snake in the barn. We all went running, but the thing out smarted us all and escaped. I am keeping a close eye out for him as I know he is eating my eggs and will continue to do so until he is dispatched to other terrain. I knew something was amiss when production dropped from 5 eggs a day to 2 eggs a day.
The garden is growing by leaps and bounds. The rain has started everyting to growing including the weeds. Suppose to get more water today, so the weeding will have to hold until tomorrow or Thursday. The ground is too wet to be tromping through the rows.
My oldest grandchildren are coming for a short mid week visit and I will be busy "absorbing" for a few days. Who knows what we will find to get into, but I have a couple of ideas. I need to keep them here for a week at least to finish some sewing I started. They grow so fast they will have outgrown everything before I finish.
Until next time,
Happy reading!
Belle
The chicks are progressing wonderfully. We had a scare on Sunday when the daughter-in-law found a "huge" chicken snake in the barn. We all went running, but the thing out smarted us all and escaped. I am keeping a close eye out for him as I know he is eating my eggs and will continue to do so until he is dispatched to other terrain. I knew something was amiss when production dropped from 5 eggs a day to 2 eggs a day.
The garden is growing by leaps and bounds. The rain has started everyting to growing including the weeds. Suppose to get more water today, so the weeding will have to hold until tomorrow or Thursday. The ground is too wet to be tromping through the rows.
My oldest grandchildren are coming for a short mid week visit and I will be busy "absorbing" for a few days. Who knows what we will find to get into, but I have a couple of ideas. I need to keep them here for a week at least to finish some sewing I started. They grow so fast they will have outgrown everything before I finish.
Until next time,
Happy reading!
Belle
Sunday, April 25, 2010
Sunday Afternoons
With dinner eaten and dishes washed and put away, we piled in the car and headed out. Out to way was at Dad's discretion and we were always surprised. Sometimes it was a trip to Uncle Owen and Aunt Ruth's (not our aunt or uncle at all, but so close you wouldn't know the difference) or maybe down to Higgins Mill, Pine Mountain, High Falls or over to Jackson Lake. Just a ride to see what the rest of the world was doing and how it was progressing.
Most of the time it was pretty boring for me and Sis. When Sis was bored she wouldn't look out the window so she always got carsick and she would get in the front with Mom and Dad which left me sitting in the back all alone. Normally I would just lay down and take a good nap or watch the passing clouds out the back window. When we weren't bored, we would watch for "Beetles", white horses or make a game out of tag numbers.
The first two or three numbers on the old old tags were the county of registration. Sis and I use to try to guess the counties the cars were from. The killer strip (old highway 41) was the best place to play the tag game as cars from up north travelled this route to get to Florida. An old two lane blacktop with no passing lanes, old highway 41 claimed more lives than the DOT would like to admit. It is a shame that interstates are not conducive to Sunday afternoon rides as we would really rack up with the tags on those vehicles.
In the fall, our Sunday afternoon would takes us to the North Georgia mountains for an afternoon of ohing and ahing as we witnessed the spenldor of the colors of the changing leaves. It seems to have gotten later in the year when this change takes place and doesn't seem as prolific as it once was, but so many of the old hardwoods have been cut out and replaced with pines or hemlocks.
My Dad was and is a firm believer of Sunday as a day of rest. On Sunday, we went to church, ate dinner, and rested - period. There was no work on Sundays, that is until he became a dairy farmer and all that changed. No more Sunday afternoon rides, vacations, or holidays, but those cows provided a decent living for me and my family. He stood be his guns on non-essential work - burning limbs or leaves, cutting grass and nobody in our little family went shopping on a Sunday even after he became a dairy farmer - that was considered non-essential.
In our hurry scurry world, we sometimes get behind some blasted Sunday afternoon drivers that are not in a hurry at all and I feel a pang of envy. Wouldn't it be nice just to roll the windows down and drive real slow along some country road and smell the earth, the trees and the animals and not be in a hurry to get anyplace at all. It is so relaxing and restfull, which is why Dad enjoyed those rides so much. It was an escape from work, chores, and daily living. A speck of peace in a hurried world.
Yes, today is a perfect day for such an unhurried ride. The winds is lightly blowing, the air is fresh after a good nights rain and a peaceful rest is just what we all need. A time to gather strength, rest our bodies and calm our minds.
I hope you find a special way to enjoy your Sunday afternoon. Until next time,
Happy Reading!
Belle
Most of the time it was pretty boring for me and Sis. When Sis was bored she wouldn't look out the window so she always got carsick and she would get in the front with Mom and Dad which left me sitting in the back all alone. Normally I would just lay down and take a good nap or watch the passing clouds out the back window. When we weren't bored, we would watch for "Beetles", white horses or make a game out of tag numbers.
The first two or three numbers on the old old tags were the county of registration. Sis and I use to try to guess the counties the cars were from. The killer strip (old highway 41) was the best place to play the tag game as cars from up north travelled this route to get to Florida. An old two lane blacktop with no passing lanes, old highway 41 claimed more lives than the DOT would like to admit. It is a shame that interstates are not conducive to Sunday afternoon rides as we would really rack up with the tags on those vehicles.
In the fall, our Sunday afternoon would takes us to the North Georgia mountains for an afternoon of ohing and ahing as we witnessed the spenldor of the colors of the changing leaves. It seems to have gotten later in the year when this change takes place and doesn't seem as prolific as it once was, but so many of the old hardwoods have been cut out and replaced with pines or hemlocks.
My Dad was and is a firm believer of Sunday as a day of rest. On Sunday, we went to church, ate dinner, and rested - period. There was no work on Sundays, that is until he became a dairy farmer and all that changed. No more Sunday afternoon rides, vacations, or holidays, but those cows provided a decent living for me and my family. He stood be his guns on non-essential work - burning limbs or leaves, cutting grass and nobody in our little family went shopping on a Sunday even after he became a dairy farmer - that was considered non-essential.
In our hurry scurry world, we sometimes get behind some blasted Sunday afternoon drivers that are not in a hurry at all and I feel a pang of envy. Wouldn't it be nice just to roll the windows down and drive real slow along some country road and smell the earth, the trees and the animals and not be in a hurry to get anyplace at all. It is so relaxing and restfull, which is why Dad enjoyed those rides so much. It was an escape from work, chores, and daily living. A speck of peace in a hurried world.
Yes, today is a perfect day for such an unhurried ride. The winds is lightly blowing, the air is fresh after a good nights rain and a peaceful rest is just what we all need. A time to gather strength, rest our bodies and calm our minds.
I hope you find a special way to enjoy your Sunday afternoon. Until next time,
Happy Reading!
Belle
Wednesday, April 21, 2010
Chicken Update
I have 9 beautiful new little chicks that are as of yesterday a week old. Eat, eat, eat and drink, drink, drink is their main forte at this point. We are proud of the little buggers and just know they will be producing big brown eggs in just five months and start giving back.
With our laying hens and roosters, our new chicks brings our flock to number twenty four. Of course, some of these precious babies will be roosters and will either go in the cookpot or to the sale barn.
I want to share a few things we learned through this process. First, keep the temperature between 98 and 100 degrees. We maintained the 100 degree point through the use of an old thermostat from a discarded hot water heater. Second, rotate the eggs in the incubator - this is in addition to turning them three times a day. Third, close to hatching time (21 days in the incubator) listen and watch. We had been told not to help the biddies hatch (remove the shell or open the egg a bit) as this would make for a weak bird, but about nine of our eggs were fully developed but the shells were too hard for the little chicks to break through. They expired in the process and we lost about a dozen little chicks. Fourth, remove the water from the incubator so the babies will not drown (I lost one this way) or move the chicks immediately to another container keeping them warm and dry, but providing food and water (in a container they cannot fall into).
Our chicks did not eat anything on the first day after they hatched, but on the second day they ate like they were starving and haven't slowed down. It took about an hour after hatching for them to dry and get their legs under them, but at a week old they are flutter flying all around their box. The first chick is still the boss of the others as evidence by her tending her flock. I know this will change when they are merged with the larger chicks that are about 7 - 8 weeks now.
I was a proud Mama yesterday when I went into the pen late in the day and found my older chicks (about 4 months old) on the perch roosting with my hens. They have found their place in the flock and the hens are keeping them in line but have accepted them.
I know I have a ways to go, but this has been a most gratifying process and I think I might just try another couple of dozen in a week or so. My friends are anxious to put my babies in a pot for chicken and dumplings, but I think they may have to go to the grocer for their chickens.
Thanks for stopping in for a visit and come back soon!
Happy reading!
Belle
With our laying hens and roosters, our new chicks brings our flock to number twenty four. Of course, some of these precious babies will be roosters and will either go in the cookpot or to the sale barn.
I want to share a few things we learned through this process. First, keep the temperature between 98 and 100 degrees. We maintained the 100 degree point through the use of an old thermostat from a discarded hot water heater. Second, rotate the eggs in the incubator - this is in addition to turning them three times a day. Third, close to hatching time (21 days in the incubator) listen and watch. We had been told not to help the biddies hatch (remove the shell or open the egg a bit) as this would make for a weak bird, but about nine of our eggs were fully developed but the shells were too hard for the little chicks to break through. They expired in the process and we lost about a dozen little chicks. Fourth, remove the water from the incubator so the babies will not drown (I lost one this way) or move the chicks immediately to another container keeping them warm and dry, but providing food and water (in a container they cannot fall into).
Our chicks did not eat anything on the first day after they hatched, but on the second day they ate like they were starving and haven't slowed down. It took about an hour after hatching for them to dry and get their legs under them, but at a week old they are flutter flying all around their box. The first chick is still the boss of the others as evidence by her tending her flock. I know this will change when they are merged with the larger chicks that are about 7 - 8 weeks now.
I was a proud Mama yesterday when I went into the pen late in the day and found my older chicks (about 4 months old) on the perch roosting with my hens. They have found their place in the flock and the hens are keeping them in line but have accepted them.
I know I have a ways to go, but this has been a most gratifying process and I think I might just try another couple of dozen in a week or so. My friends are anxious to put my babies in a pot for chicken and dumplings, but I think they may have to go to the grocer for their chickens.
Thanks for stopping in for a visit and come back soon!
Happy reading!
Belle
Monday, April 19, 2010
Wednesday, April 14, 2010
Thank goodness a break! No new ones hatched in the last 12 hours, but still have several pecking and scratching inside the shells. The "pecking order" has already started with the first born being king of the roost. It mothers each and everyone and attacks my hand on a regular basis, but eventually just sprawls out and takes a rest with its little head laying down on the back of my hand. The first born is also trying to assist each little chick with the birthing process and even pulled the shell off yesterday. When one little chick poked nothing but its beak out of the little hole in the egg, it was promptly pecked for its effort. It is also the one to peck the others if they interfer in its assumed duties.
We probably will get another dozen out of this batch of eggs, maybe more but no one knows what is going on inside those little shell houses.
Meanwhile, the biddies we purchased at the Buggytown Auction have rapidly out grown their pen and two have been released into the barn with an "escape" pen handy for those times the chickens decide they look good enough to eat. I also feed them in this pen to ensure they get enough to eat.
The laying hens and rooster have enjoyed apple cores and lettuce this week. They really enjoy these treats. When one pecks the apple core the others will chase it around. These ladies will then toss the core into the air and let another catch it and once again the chase is on. Majestic, the dominate rooster, will run a bit and then stop and look around to see if anyone caught his antics. He is so arrogant!
Thanks for dropping in. More updates are pending as are the little broken shells!
Happy Reading!
Belle
We probably will get another dozen out of this batch of eggs, maybe more but no one knows what is going on inside those little shell houses.
Meanwhile, the biddies we purchased at the Buggytown Auction have rapidly out grown their pen and two have been released into the barn with an "escape" pen handy for those times the chickens decide they look good enough to eat. I also feed them in this pen to ensure they get enough to eat.
The laying hens and rooster have enjoyed apple cores and lettuce this week. They really enjoy these treats. When one pecks the apple core the others will chase it around. These ladies will then toss the core into the air and let another catch it and once again the chase is on. Majestic, the dominate rooster, will run a bit and then stop and look around to see if anyone caught his antics. He is so arrogant!
Thanks for dropping in. More updates are pending as are the little broken shells!
Happy Reading!
Belle
Tuesday, April 13, 2010
I fear this is going to be a long process - one more hatched overnight and two more are cracking. The two that were cracking yesterday are still in process. It seems the blue eggs (probably a variety of a game chicken) hatching hatching easier than the brown eggs which is logical as the brown eggs have probably been fed a laying mash with extra calcium where the game chicks foraged free.
I have two beige and 1 black. One precious baby got into the water container before I could get to it and drowned. So, if 50 - 75 % are expected to hatch, we started with 120 eggs, lost 12 due to accidental crushing or dropping, a hen is still sitting on 6 and 6 are ladies in waiting, then I still have a long long way to go.
Expect 5 more to hatch today, but that is what I thought yesterday also. Buying the eggs as mixed dozens, I have no idea what we will end up with, but I must be game for anything or we wouldn't have started this process to begin with.
It looks like we are pretty close to the normal hatching days as the eggs were started on March 21 and that puts us on day 24. Thanks for letting me share this experience with you and come back soon for more updates.
By the way, the garden has not suffered as I have hoed and planted while the chicks are doing their thing! Thanks to all the rain we have had over the winter and early spring, the flowers and plants are flourishing. I did lose my sago palms, but we had a really nasty winter as far as temperatures and snow went. My "thrift" is beautiful and I am so pleased that my rosa rugosa came back and is so full and lush. My asparagus is sprouting its little shoots everywhere and the hostas (thanks to all the rain) has multiplied into large bushy clumps.
Again, thanks for visiting and come back soon!
Happy reading!
Belle
I have two beige and 1 black. One precious baby got into the water container before I could get to it and drowned. So, if 50 - 75 % are expected to hatch, we started with 120 eggs, lost 12 due to accidental crushing or dropping, a hen is still sitting on 6 and 6 are ladies in waiting, then I still have a long long way to go.
Expect 5 more to hatch today, but that is what I thought yesterday also. Buying the eggs as mixed dozens, I have no idea what we will end up with, but I must be game for anything or we wouldn't have started this process to begin with.
It looks like we are pretty close to the normal hatching days as the eggs were started on March 21 and that puts us on day 24. Thanks for letting me share this experience with you and come back soon for more updates.
By the way, the garden has not suffered as I have hoed and planted while the chicks are doing their thing! Thanks to all the rain we have had over the winter and early spring, the flowers and plants are flourishing. I did lose my sago palms, but we had a really nasty winter as far as temperatures and snow went. My "thrift" is beautiful and I am so pleased that my rosa rugosa came back and is so full and lush. My asparagus is sprouting its little shoots everywhere and the hostas (thanks to all the rain) has multiplied into large bushy clumps.
Again, thanks for visiting and come back soon!
Happy reading!
Belle
Monday, April 12, 2010
Consistently for three weeks we have turned eggs three times a day - 6 to 8 hours apart - not knowing whether we had even purchased fertile eggs, nevertheless, hoping that our efforts would pay off. Friday was suppose to be hatching day, but I do understand that the temperature must stay within the 99 to 100 degree window for the process to even begin, so it can vary by a few days.
We started checking the eggs on Friday in hopes that we would be able to watch the little shells burst open and little creatures would emerge. My daughter and granddaughter, very excited over the idea, swore they heard scratching and chirping. I heard nothing and was sure they were hallucinating due their wishing to be part of the birthing process.
I had a rather busy morning on the inside and did not rush out to check my biddies and the eggs in the incubator, but around mid-morning I hit the barn. Two little biddies had hatched and were soaking wet and wobbling around in the incubator. With pounding heart and a smile on my face, I quickly gathered them in an old towel and tucked them safely into the corner of the incubator to keep them warm and dry. I removed the water and placed a small plastic top in the bottom with water and feed. It took about an hour for them to settled in and start to cuddle in their bed. That was about 4 hours ago and 5 more eggs are cracking and the little peeps are chirping away in their shells.
Of course I called hubby to let him know that his 10 dozen egg purchase was not in vain and that the little peeps were hatching fine. I am now the nursey and delivery nurse for the rest of the day. Will catch you up on my progress during the day. I am in the process of making a true nursery for the little darlings. I have read that the process can take from 5 - 10 days so I will be watchful until I am sure the process in over.
Stay with me on my chicken and biddy venture! It is so exciting to watch the miracle of birth which only further affirms that our God is one of miracles!
Happy reading!
Belle
We started checking the eggs on Friday in hopes that we would be able to watch the little shells burst open and little creatures would emerge. My daughter and granddaughter, very excited over the idea, swore they heard scratching and chirping. I heard nothing and was sure they were hallucinating due their wishing to be part of the birthing process.
I had a rather busy morning on the inside and did not rush out to check my biddies and the eggs in the incubator, but around mid-morning I hit the barn. Two little biddies had hatched and were soaking wet and wobbling around in the incubator. With pounding heart and a smile on my face, I quickly gathered them in an old towel and tucked them safely into the corner of the incubator to keep them warm and dry. I removed the water and placed a small plastic top in the bottom with water and feed. It took about an hour for them to settled in and start to cuddle in their bed. That was about 4 hours ago and 5 more eggs are cracking and the little peeps are chirping away in their shells.
Of course I called hubby to let him know that his 10 dozen egg purchase was not in vain and that the little peeps were hatching fine. I am now the nursey and delivery nurse for the rest of the day. Will catch you up on my progress during the day. I am in the process of making a true nursery for the little darlings. I have read that the process can take from 5 - 10 days so I will be watchful until I am sure the process in over.
Stay with me on my chicken and biddy venture! It is so exciting to watch the miracle of birth which only further affirms that our God is one of miracles!
Happy reading!
Belle
Thursday, April 8, 2010
Wednesday, April 7, 2010
My World in April
Only a few days left before we see whether or not or diligence has paid off and we are blessed with new chicks. The process hasn't really been that bad, but has been a little inconvenient having to turn the eggs three times a day.
Wouldn't you know it, one of our hens has gone back to brooding (sitting) on her eggs. It would have been nice if she had decided to do this 20 days ago. Anyway, that means I will be doing without her eggs for a few weeks, but I have two more hens that have started laying regularly.
Plan on getting some tomatoes and pepper plants in this weekend in between yard selling and visiting with my grandchildren. My potaoes are growing profusely and the beets, beans, squash, and lettuce are all showing their little heads and the rain scheduled for tomorrow will not only provided relief from the pollen, but also give these little guys a much needed drink. After the weekend I will put the okra in as the ground will not only be moist but warm enough for the temperamental okra seeds to sprout. I do believe those little okra seeds have a thermometer stuck in them and they refuse to take action until it reaches the ideal temperature - maybe I should put them in the incubator.
My hostas and canna lillies have started poking their beautiful green foliage through the ground and I am anxious to see how well they multiplied in their first year. I will dig them up and separate in the fall, but I usually let them rest in the first year. I do believe I managed to kill my asparagus fern by dividing this spring. Usually, an asparagus fern needs to be divided each spring by removing from the pot and cutting into four equal pie shaped and then replanting in fresh potting soil. I noticed when I divided my two pots, the roots were extremely spongy so I was unsure whether they would make it or not. I should have seen some new growth by now as it has been almost two weeks since I divided and re-potted. I may need to start over with the ferns.
In all my 50 years in dealing with plants, I have never been able to grow Aloe. I know, everyone says it is the easiest thing in the world to grow, but up until this year I could kill it by thinking about it. My dear sister gave me several plants when I requested some droppings from her Chandelier cactus (fern). A story in itself as to how she came about having this unusual, but beautiful plant, but I seemed to have left mine exposed during an early cold snap year before and wanted to start some more. Not only did sis bless me with many baby cactus, but gifted me with many, many Aloe.
I tried something different and am well pleased with the results. I took a couple of fish bowls, poured sand in the bottom to about 2 inches, adding 3-4 inches of potting soil, then watering until the potting soil is damp (not wet) once a week. The aloe has flourished in these bowls and they make a beautiful centerpiece. The fronds lift out of the bowl and spread. I added a few small animals to the bowls which has become a favorite topic of conversation.
Time for me to get a move on it. I am making some pretty halter tops and vests to go in my online shop (http://www.clairescollections.etsy.com/), but that will have to wait until after my yard sale this weekend. Keep your eyes open I may have something just for you listed soon. I hope you have a great day and thanks for stopping in!
Happy reading!
Belle
Wouldn't you know it, one of our hens has gone back to brooding (sitting) on her eggs. It would have been nice if she had decided to do this 20 days ago. Anyway, that means I will be doing without her eggs for a few weeks, but I have two more hens that have started laying regularly.
Plan on getting some tomatoes and pepper plants in this weekend in between yard selling and visiting with my grandchildren. My potaoes are growing profusely and the beets, beans, squash, and lettuce are all showing their little heads and the rain scheduled for tomorrow will not only provided relief from the pollen, but also give these little guys a much needed drink. After the weekend I will put the okra in as the ground will not only be moist but warm enough for the temperamental okra seeds to sprout. I do believe those little okra seeds have a thermometer stuck in them and they refuse to take action until it reaches the ideal temperature - maybe I should put them in the incubator.
My hostas and canna lillies have started poking their beautiful green foliage through the ground and I am anxious to see how well they multiplied in their first year. I will dig them up and separate in the fall, but I usually let them rest in the first year. I do believe I managed to kill my asparagus fern by dividing this spring. Usually, an asparagus fern needs to be divided each spring by removing from the pot and cutting into four equal pie shaped and then replanting in fresh potting soil. I noticed when I divided my two pots, the roots were extremely spongy so I was unsure whether they would make it or not. I should have seen some new growth by now as it has been almost two weeks since I divided and re-potted. I may need to start over with the ferns.
In all my 50 years in dealing with plants, I have never been able to grow Aloe. I know, everyone says it is the easiest thing in the world to grow, but up until this year I could kill it by thinking about it. My dear sister gave me several plants when I requested some droppings from her Chandelier cactus (fern). A story in itself as to how she came about having this unusual, but beautiful plant, but I seemed to have left mine exposed during an early cold snap year before and wanted to start some more. Not only did sis bless me with many baby cactus, but gifted me with many, many Aloe.
I tried something different and am well pleased with the results. I took a couple of fish bowls, poured sand in the bottom to about 2 inches, adding 3-4 inches of potting soil, then watering until the potting soil is damp (not wet) once a week. The aloe has flourished in these bowls and they make a beautiful centerpiece. The fronds lift out of the bowl and spread. I added a few small animals to the bowls which has become a favorite topic of conversation.
Time for me to get a move on it. I am making some pretty halter tops and vests to go in my online shop (http://www.clairescollections.etsy.com/), but that will have to wait until after my yard sale this weekend. Keep your eyes open I may have something just for you listed soon. I hope you have a great day and thanks for stopping in!
Happy reading!
Belle
Monday, April 5, 2010
Thank You, Preacher Mac!
I sat in the same pew I did 50 years ago and the memories came flooding back. With Johnny, Gwen, Billy, Barbara, Donald, Dennis, Dean and the rest easily slouched down in the pew behind. Janice, Diane, Mary Ann and I would peek over the top to watch them as the good old gospel songs were sung and we all waited for Preacher Mac to call his "Syrup Soppers" to the front to listen to our special Bible story and sing our special songs. There was not a child in that church that did not know that Jesus loved every one of us and we were His. He made his children a part of the church, keeping the families worshipping together.
Preacher Mac didn't wait to teach us, but he grasp our little minds early with love and caring and showed us that we belonged to Jesus. We were left with no doubt that Jesus had claimed us, would protect us, and guide us through life. We felt the security of Jesus' love.
Through Preacher Mac's stories we learned the Bible from front to back, from God's great creations to his son returning to gather us all up unto the heavens at the end of time. We were taught not only the words of the Bible, but how it applies to our lives today. He taught us fear out of reverance and the joy found in living our lives for Christ Jesus.
Preacher Mac was a special man. He could reprimand from the pulpit without offending, yet each and every offender knew he was being admonished, leavingmany wondering how did he find out about that. He had a Bible verse for every occurrance and didn't just share the verse, but could explain exactly how it applied to each of us and our situations. He knew his people and he knew his Bible.
Our little church flourished under his ministry. No one missed church on Sunday and if we did Preacher Mac would visit or call before services on Sunday night. During his ministry we had more "dinners on the ground" than any other time, because everyone wanted to eat with the preacher.
Preacher Mac taught us to give thanks when God'a sun comes up in the morning giving us another day to His moon rising at night signaling the time for rest from our labors. God created it all for our benefit and enjoyment that we might glorify Him. Preacher Mac belived and taught that we should pray continually asking God to guide our thoughts, steps and actions. If it would not be pleasing to God, leave it alone.
There are many scholarly pastors in the world, but few great teachers. Preacher Mac was touched by God and it was evident in the way he lived his life and preached the Gospel. I thank God for sending him to our little Church and enriching all the lives of those that had the honor of knowing him. This little "Syrup Sopper" remembers.
Preacher Mac didn't wait to teach us, but he grasp our little minds early with love and caring and showed us that we belonged to Jesus. We were left with no doubt that Jesus had claimed us, would protect us, and guide us through life. We felt the security of Jesus' love.
Through Preacher Mac's stories we learned the Bible from front to back, from God's great creations to his son returning to gather us all up unto the heavens at the end of time. We were taught not only the words of the Bible, but how it applies to our lives today. He taught us fear out of reverance and the joy found in living our lives for Christ Jesus.
Preacher Mac was a special man. He could reprimand from the pulpit without offending, yet each and every offender knew he was being admonished, leavingmany wondering how did he find out about that. He had a Bible verse for every occurrance and didn't just share the verse, but could explain exactly how it applied to each of us and our situations. He knew his people and he knew his Bible.
Our little church flourished under his ministry. No one missed church on Sunday and if we did Preacher Mac would visit or call before services on Sunday night. During his ministry we had more "dinners on the ground" than any other time, because everyone wanted to eat with the preacher.
Preacher Mac taught us to give thanks when God'a sun comes up in the morning giving us another day to His moon rising at night signaling the time for rest from our labors. God created it all for our benefit and enjoyment that we might glorify Him. Preacher Mac belived and taught that we should pray continually asking God to guide our thoughts, steps and actions. If it would not be pleasing to God, leave it alone.
There are many scholarly pastors in the world, but few great teachers. Preacher Mac was touched by God and it was evident in the way he lived his life and preached the Gospel. I thank God for sending him to our little Church and enriching all the lives of those that had the honor of knowing him. This little "Syrup Sopper" remembers.
Saturday, April 3, 2010
Thursday, April 1, 2010
Grandpa, a tall, slender man, couldn't stay in the house for any length of time. He enjoyed cooking and didn't mind cleaning the kitchen, but that was the extent of his household chores. He was an outdoor man. Piddling in his barn, cutting the grass or working his garden was where you could always find Grandpa. A quiet, gentle man, he was always a pleasure to be around. Some may have called Grandpa a simple man, but he was far from simple minded. Sharp as a tack with patience to spare, he could design and build anything from a piece of furniture to a house - he designed and built his own home, but he knew how to make do with what he had.
In the winter, I would follow him to the barn and watch as he worked on tools, repaired chairs or tables, or built some piece of furniture for the house. He was a fine carpenter and seem to be able to build a beautiful piece of furniture out of scaps. He used hand tools - no, not the power tools of today - to slowly plane the wood to the perfect size. He used a brace and bit when holes needed to be bored and made his own sand blocks for achieving the smooth beautiful finish on his furniture. He carved his own dowels and biscuits to ensure a good tight fit to each piece of furniture he made. I could sit idly by and watch him for hours, but when I "got on his nerves" he would tell me to go check on Grandma and make sure she was alright.
In the spring, Grandpa would get his mule out and plow the garden. Poor old mule, that was the only time Grandpa put him to use. Grandpa felt that if you wanted to eat you had to plant and Grandma's freezer was always full. He had a huge field that he planted each and every year. From the road to the barn, about 300 feet, he turned the ground and layed out the rows. I would go with Grandpa to the seed store and we would come out with bags of limas, string beans, corn, okra, squash, cucumbers, crowder peas, watermelons, cantelopes and of course tomato plants. Grandpa didn't waste garden space on vegetables he didn't like, but he was known to plant a few gourds for his bird houses and scoops.
I wasn't allowed in the garden until it was time to put the seed in the rows, but I sat at the edge of the yard and watched as he turned the ground. I had the job of dropping the seed, but Grandpa was awfully finicky about dopping the seed. I would scoot down the row on my bottom putting the seed in the row. Grandpa would place the first few seeds and tell me to space the rest of the row just like he had done. He would follow me covering the seeds and if I didn't have them spaced right he would tell me "too close together" or "too far apart." I loved scooting down the row in the freshly turned dirt curling my toes in as I scooted along, but man those rows were long. When the planting was done, we waited on the rain and watched for the little shoots to poke through.
My work was done until picking time, Granpa didn't trust anybody with a hoe in his garden but him. I would sit at the edge of the yard and watch him hoe up and down those long rows. Sometimes he would take a break and send me for a glass of water while he rolled him a Prince Albert. Grandpa didn't smoke much, but he enjoyed his cigarette after eating, midmorning, right before bed and those breaks after hoeing the garden.
I think of Grandpa often, but this time of year when I turn my garden, lay out the rows, and place my seeds, he is very close to me. Grandpa always had enough garden for the whole family. Maybe I will make my garden bigger this year.
I have been looking for those same Alabama Black pole beans that were so good tasting and had little or no strings, but I have not found the first one. One of these days I will find someone that has a stash and maybe they will share. For now, I am off to my garden for more planting. The ground has warmed and tomorrow is Good Friday! Thank you all for visiting and come back soon!
Happy reading!
Belle
In the winter, I would follow him to the barn and watch as he worked on tools, repaired chairs or tables, or built some piece of furniture for the house. He was a fine carpenter and seem to be able to build a beautiful piece of furniture out of scaps. He used hand tools - no, not the power tools of today - to slowly plane the wood to the perfect size. He used a brace and bit when holes needed to be bored and made his own sand blocks for achieving the smooth beautiful finish on his furniture. He carved his own dowels and biscuits to ensure a good tight fit to each piece of furniture he made. I could sit idly by and watch him for hours, but when I "got on his nerves" he would tell me to go check on Grandma and make sure she was alright.
In the spring, Grandpa would get his mule out and plow the garden. Poor old mule, that was the only time Grandpa put him to use. Grandpa felt that if you wanted to eat you had to plant and Grandma's freezer was always full. He had a huge field that he planted each and every year. From the road to the barn, about 300 feet, he turned the ground and layed out the rows. I would go with Grandpa to the seed store and we would come out with bags of limas, string beans, corn, okra, squash, cucumbers, crowder peas, watermelons, cantelopes and of course tomato plants. Grandpa didn't waste garden space on vegetables he didn't like, but he was known to plant a few gourds for his bird houses and scoops.
I wasn't allowed in the garden until it was time to put the seed in the rows, but I sat at the edge of the yard and watched as he turned the ground. I had the job of dropping the seed, but Grandpa was awfully finicky about dopping the seed. I would scoot down the row on my bottom putting the seed in the row. Grandpa would place the first few seeds and tell me to space the rest of the row just like he had done. He would follow me covering the seeds and if I didn't have them spaced right he would tell me "too close together" or "too far apart." I loved scooting down the row in the freshly turned dirt curling my toes in as I scooted along, but man those rows were long. When the planting was done, we waited on the rain and watched for the little shoots to poke through.
My work was done until picking time, Granpa didn't trust anybody with a hoe in his garden but him. I would sit at the edge of the yard and watch him hoe up and down those long rows. Sometimes he would take a break and send me for a glass of water while he rolled him a Prince Albert. Grandpa didn't smoke much, but he enjoyed his cigarette after eating, midmorning, right before bed and those breaks after hoeing the garden.
I think of Grandpa often, but this time of year when I turn my garden, lay out the rows, and place my seeds, he is very close to me. Grandpa always had enough garden for the whole family. Maybe I will make my garden bigger this year.
I have been looking for those same Alabama Black pole beans that were so good tasting and had little or no strings, but I have not found the first one. One of these days I will find someone that has a stash and maybe they will share. For now, I am off to my garden for more planting. The ground has warmed and tomorrow is Good Friday! Thank you all for visiting and come back soon!
Happy reading!
Belle
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