No Way!

There is no way I see myself as "old".  That is why when putting all our treasures out on Friday morning for a yard sale this weekend, I jumped on the stationary bike when challenged by my granddaughter.  She was tearing up the CardioGlide, so I was trying to tear up the bike.  Every time I tried to stop, my little angel wanted just a little bit longer Nanna.  Oh what a bad mistake!  I rode like the wind and it actually felt pretty good. 

Oh my, after all the treasures were set out and I settled on the porch with a cup of coffee and a book to wait for our first customers, the knee started feeling just a mite tight.  Then I tried to stand - it didn't work!  The pain was horrendous, the knee wouldn't bend and all I could manage was a hobble.

Thank goodness for ibuprofen.  I took a couple and settled back down.  Thank goodness my daughter was there to help because I couldn't have made many trips up and down those steps nor sit in the yard with the cold wind blowing.  I hobbled and griped for the rest of the day, sure it was a temporary thing and caused by the lack of exercise. Well, here it is Monday and while I can hobble faster once I get started, the knee is still a mite swollen and tender. 

Have you looked in the mirror and wondered who the person was looking back?  In your mind do you see you as you actually look or do you see the person that was?  I don't think any of us see ourselves as we are, but as we were at a younger age.  Some days I feel almost 60 and others I feel 35.  I am learning, sometimes the hard way, that I can't do what I use to do and sometimes it is better not to try.  Am I giving in to my old age - no way!  In fact, I put the stationary bike on the porch and intend to ride every day - not a lot, but some.  I think I can limber that knee up after it gets over the shock and probably ride as long as the granddaughter by Spring.

Until next time . . .

Happy reading!
Belle

Update
I only told part of the story in the above post, so here's the rest of the tale.  On Saturday, some girls I graduated with planned a get-together.  There were several people that couldn't make it to our class reunion in June and we all really wanted to get together.  Help was coming to relieve me and to help daughter with the yard sale, so I was really looking forward to some fun and memory recall.  When the time came for me to get ready, however, I could not walk without a noticeable limp and getting in and out of a chair was impossible.  Yes, my kids laughed at me, but there was no way I was going to see the girls from school, when all I could do was limp around!  Already feeling ancient, I couldn't limp into the restaurant where everyone looks years younger than me anyway.  Vanity is silly I know, but that is what kept me from an enjoyable afternoon with old friends.  Hopefully we can all get together again and this time I will sit on my duff so I will be prepared. 

Now I have set the record straight.  Girls, forgive me for missing what I am sure was a fun time.  Let's try again soon. 

Love to all!
Belle

Toothpicks and Q-tips are handy cleaning aids. 
They reach where nothing else will!

I thoroughly enjoyed my "Girlfriends in God" devotional this morning.  It sent me to my Bible to read the last chapter.  It reinforces all the promises of God and yes, it tells us everything ends as God has promised. If you get a chance today, visit "Girlfriends In God".

Big yard sale this weekend with goodies from multiple households.  Hope people find the treasures among what we consider our junk.  I am a pack rat and so are some of the participants of our sale, so there is no telling what you will turn up that you can't live without.  I really enjoy "yard sales".  I get to visit with neighbors who are too busy with their own lives to visit and I always meet new friends.  It will be cold this weekend so the coffee will be flowing.

It seems to get further and further between visits of my daughter and her family.  I get needy after a few weeks and sometimes my heart pines to touch my grandchildren.  They still have that great child smell when you hug them and your chin hits the top of their heads.  Their little arms - some getting longer- wrap around your waist and squeeze - it is the best feeling in the world.

I am once again getting in the sewing mood, so I hope to be turning out "something to die for" in the next few weeks.  Hopefully I will get creative between now and then.  Daughter has already gotten her customized Christmas stockings going and has received several orders.  The year has flown by and it is closing on the end of another year.

Thanksgiving is right around the corner, I am so excited to see all the family once again.  As time passes we seem to move hither and yon and don't stay in touch as we go about our business.  Nephew is gracing us with some new recipes again this year and I am delighted to test his creations.  There is so much to be thankful for this year.  It has had its ups and downs, but as in the Bible, everything turned out okay.  

Feeding a bunch of bikers a pot of chili for dinner, so I must get to it.  Until next time . . .

Happy Reading!
Belle 

October 27, 2010 It is 88 degrees outside.
We haven't even had a frost yet! 
Summer is not giving up!

Trip Almost to the Mountains

At one time on the weekend closest to my Mom's Birthday (the middle of October) we made the annual trip to see the leaves.  Those were in simpler times when taking a ride to see something new was exciting and fulfilling.  Oh well, times do change and we must change with them or get left behind.  I haven't made that trip in quite a few years until this weekend. 

The Moonshine Festival is an annual event for the people in the Dawsonville area.  The town was as loaded as the old moonshine runner's vehicles that we saw on display.  There were also the runner's of the runners better known at the time as "the revenuers".  Many interesting vehicles outfitted to their task of either hauling the shine or catching the haulers.  Being the hometown of racer Bill Elliot, there was many old racing cars on display also.  It was the Mother of Old Car Shows. 

Many talented people displayed their arts and I had my first feel of the Crystal marbles or jewels.  They were soft and moist, not at all what you expect when you reach to pick them up and the automatic jerking back of the hand takes place as it comes in contact with these little jewels.  Very novel idea for plants and flowers as these little jewels retain moisture very well and for long periods of time keeping their marble shape without going flat or getting squishy.  There were loads of woodworking items, furniture and carved decor.   

Food booths were everywhere and if I had not been careful I would have left looking (and feeling) like a blimp.  Spicy boiled peanuts seemed the hit of the day as well as spicy pork rinds.  My lips are still tingling, but they were delicious.

My highlight of the trip was my granddaughter and her clogging team.  They were absolutely wonderful.  With their wonderful costumes they danced all over the stage with smiles on their faces and the bows in their hair.  The swishing of their crinolines under their skirts and the clickety clack of their shoes was so inspiring and fit in completely with the theme of the festival.  I so enjoyed watching the results of my granddaughters long hours of practice.  Oh, yes.  My daughter clogged also, and she was almost as good as her daughter. 

Dawsonville is a nice small friendly town just north of Atlanta at the foothills of the smokies.  The leaves have started to turn there and some of the trees displayed a beautiful array of yellows, oranges, golds and the deep wine colors that always sets the others off.  It was an enjoyable trip and full of fun.

Until next time . . .

Happy reading!
Belle

Teens

will try your patience, your understanding, your compassion;
but darn, don't we love them!

Acknowlege vs Acceptance

There is a gift sitting on your table.  You know it is there, therefore you acknowledge its existence.  You walk by it everyday, you dust around the edges, but you don't open the package.  One day you are ready.  You sit down and remove the ribbon and paper.  Now you have accepted your gift.

This is much like the gift from God of his Son and our Savior, Jesus Christ.  Many acknowledge the gift of the Savior, but few accept this gift from God.  There are still many that are not aware of the gift.  The Savior is there, waiting for our acceptance.  The joys, blessings and comforts from this gift is life changing.  Don't wait too long to open your gift.

Chicken update II

I tried to give you a break on my chicken tales, but can't hold back any longer!

Olive green eggs arrived last week (I may have mentioned these) and today, dear hubby came flying in the house with 2 olive green eggs, found not in the coop, but in holes in the dirt of the floor of the barn.  Chickens, as most poultry do, love to dust their feathers in the dirt.  The Black Giants (that is the way they were sold) have both started laying and the eggs are so unusual on the outside, but same old egg on the inside.  They are as large as the Rhode Island Red's eggs, but have a beautiful olive green tint. 

Bless their hearts, they look just like a baby buzzard, but if you can get by their looks they are really sweet birds.  As the days are getting shorter the number of eggs will get less.  Chickens lay according to their light intake and I don't keep a light on my birds, so when the days get shorter and they get less light, I get less eggs.

I was a little late the other day in feeding the birds and the old rooster had already gone to his roosting stick.  As I poured the laying mash in the feeder, he swooped down on me.  Luckily I was anticipating his ire and quickly twisted to the side thereby foiling his attempts to do me in.  He is getting more ornery with age, but still knows where his food comes from.  He just has to try me once in a while.

My little yard birds which are almost as big as their mom, are running around on their own now.  They have learned they can venture away from mom and still be safe, but if cornered will squawk and fly right to her side.  They are so fun to watch. 

I am not getting much of that yard work done, but it is still on my "to do" list.  The more I have on my list, the less I seem to get accomplished, but so is life.  The harder we peddle the steeper the hill.

Until next time  . . .

Happy Reading!
Belle

You know you are getting older when
It isn't your parent's friends dying, it's yours.

Happy Birthday Mom!

Born the youngest child in a family of four children in 1932, Mom is celebrating her birthday today.  She looks outstanding and is still young at heart.  Life has not always been good to her, but she has always picked herself up and carried on with her life.  I know she gets lonely as in the past few years she lost her last sister and brother, but she stays in touch with what is left. 

Never a big reader, she has taken to Karen Kingsbury's books and likes to read them in order for each series.  She gets very frustrated with us providers when we can't find a complete series or a certain book she hasn't read.  She calls herself "going to bed early" so she can read in peace and quiet in her room. 

I bought her a "goody" bag today filled with all those special little things she doesn't buy for herself.  She can pamper herself to no end, then lay in bed and read while snacking on chocolate covered almonds.  She has earned the treats and the time of rest.

Mom, thanks for all you have done and I hope your day has been special!  Happy Birthday, Mom!

Oh my!  I was taking stock of the front yard yesterday afternoon, planning what needs to be done and what needs to be left alone.  Low and behold, there at the end of the gutter at the downspout were two pretty little pines trees, sprouted and growing as pretty as you please.  Well, that is a sure sign to get it in gear and clean the gutters out.  The only problem is that end of the house is about 20 feet to the gutter and I will not climb that far without proper supervision.  So, a good excuse to put it off until I can find a responsible person to take care of that problem - usually my son. 

I have to clean some dead and damaged limbs out of the pear trees.  These trees have been here over fifty years and have to be petted and pampered at this stage.  My pears had some kind of blight last year, previously mentioned here, but they seem to have recovered from this.  This year the squirrels feasted on the blooms and the nuts from the baby pears dropping them to the ground for the rabbits to feast on as they came along.  Therefore, I had no pears this year either, which makes for two years in a row there will be no preserves.  I am thinking I am feeding God's creatures more than keeping food in the pantry.

There are many changes taking place in all our lives and this takes adjustments and reorganizing.  I am thankful for all of God's blessing for all time, but especially over the last few months.  I am thankful for God hearing and answering our prayers when our cousins serving this country were concerned.  One cousin arrived home safe and sound from Iraq this week. Thank you sweet Jesus!

My redneck chihuahuas are having quite a time adjusting to the drastic change in temperatures we have experienced over the last 3 weeks.  They have returned to their cuddle mode for warmth and have been spending more time inside.  They love the hot sun of summer, but that is passed and they are now waiting for me to build the first fire of fall so they can warm their backsides.

Have much to do so until next time  . . .

Happy reading!
Belle

I am so glad God started the pay ahead plan!

Don't forget to thank God for those prayers He answered!

Don't forget to thank God for those prayers He answered!

"Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest."  Matthew 11:28 NIV

Thank you, my friend!

Our family is large with extended cousins, aunts, uncles and the very dear in-laws.  Today one of those cousins went home.  I know his wife, children, grandchildren, sister and brother will miss him greatly.  He was a heck of a man.  Always ready with a warm friendly smile with joy in his eyes.  He was as comfortable in his judges robes as he was in his jeans and flannels, as comfortable behind the bench as he was on his farm. 

I will miss the laughter and joy that we all shared.  I thank you Jim for the joy and happiness that we shared and the love of family that keep us all together.  Our family is growing with youth but we are losing much of our history as is the way of the life. 

You will always be remembered and many memories shared and always it will be done with a smile and a warm heart.

Yeah! 
It is a Dairy Queen night. A time to fellowship with good friends. 
The Blizzards are not too bad either!

I am so enjoying being able to participate in http://www.lookville.com/ and giving my opinion of all the fashion trends.  Visit us!

Christians

I just received an email stating that 86% of Americans are Christian and encouraging Christians to stand up for keeping God in our country via the pledge ofallegiance, In God We Trust on our coins, prayer in our schools and school events and all the other ways that OUR government is trying to cater to the non believers by removing God from out country.

As Christians we have prayed for peace, for love, for understanding, for acceptance and yet what we fail to realize is that Christians have been fighting throughout the ages for the right to worship and not become slaves to believers of other religions.  Yes, I said fighting - not turning the other cheek.  We all wish for and pray for peace and harmony throughout the world, but that is not happening.  There comes a time when we must be prepared to fight for our beliefs. 

Am I a radical?  Goodness no, but I am willing to give my life so that the Christian belief and way of life can survive. 

Until next time . . .

Happy Reading!
Belle

God's World

We didn't have any measurable rain for 5 weeks.  A mist once when a large cloud passed to our south, but that only made us hunger for something more substantial.  And finally on Sunday, God sent a blessing with more than 3 inches of cleansing rain and then again this afternoon a good shower!

That is what is meant by God's time.  Sometimes we know what we need, we just need to be patient and wait.  God provides in his own time.  Sometimes we think we know what we need, but God knows what our future holds and he provides what we need when we need it.  We are suppose to turn our lives over to Him and trust Him to handle our problems, needs, and desires, but we are such a demanding people.  We don't have time to wait.  Like small children, we want what we want when we want it.  Patience is the one thing I continually pray for in my life.  I need to wait for God and know he will lead me in the direction he wants me to go.


The air is much cooler after the rain this afternoon and I am hoping that tomorrow I can get back to the yard work and the many things I have neglected in my outside world.  I have been so anxious for the cooler temperatures, but know by the end of the year I will once again be anticipating the warm sun on my face and the ability to spend hours outside without being bundled up.

Until next time  . . .
Happy Reading!
Belle

I Hated It

I really hated it!  Not the writing, it was fine, but the story was horrible.  It made me hurt and I normally do not read books that hurt my heart. 

"My Sister's Keeper" written by Jodi Picoult is the book.  It is the first I have read of Picoult's works and if this is indicative of her story lines, it will be the last.  The book was left for me by my daughter who with a look of consternation on her face said you really need to read this, but I need to tell you it will touch you.  I should have known.  She knows me so well.  I waited a few days to pick it up. 

First let me say this, I don't like to read books about children being killed or being really sick.  I love kids and I am soft hearted where they are concerned.  I have put many a book aside and never picked it back up when the first chapter contained the death or fatal sickness of a child.  Okay, I may be a wimp, but that is me.

Back to the book.  Picoult covers all the emotions of the members of a family in which a child has an aggressive form of leukemia and she doesn't stop there.  Picoult delves into the emotions of others who become involved with this family and so she tells her tale.  Revealing the strengths and weaknesses of all involved, she weaves her tale in such a way you can't put the book down, but you don't want to go forward.  So complex with issues that have no decent resolution, the story keeps you riveted. 

Not for the soft hearted, but a good read that makes you delve into moral and ethical issues most of us never have to experience. 

Until next time . . .

Happy Reading!
Belle

Praying hard this morning that God will guard my mouth!

Praying hard this morning that God will guard my mouth!

Interesting Site

A friend I share recipes among other things with found this site today when looking for a recipe for canned peanuts.
Check it out and if you have a recipe for the canned peanuts let me know.

http://www.hungrybrowser.com/phaedrus/archives.htm

Colors of the month - dark yellow, light brown, bright rust

The road of life is one big adventure. 
We never know what is around the next bend.

Hint:  For a really tender flavorful meat, marinade in plain yogurt 8-12 hours before cooking.  Works wonders as a tenderizer and brings out the flavor in the meat!  Thanks to my son-in-law for this hint.

I may be slow, but I get there!

I am getting old and grumpy!  About time!

Catch up

Enjoyed a quick but joy filled visit with my daughter, my son, my nephew and their families.  The babies are growing so fast these days and I am blessed to get to see them frequently to watch the changes that are taking place.  There is no bigger changes than the first few months after "regular" or "real" school  starts and they are exposed to the magic of learning and the meeting of new people.  The exposure to the way others live and learn is a great part of the learning process. 

Our small town enjoyed an annual festival this weekend of which I chose not to attend.  It is still a little on the warm side for me to be out with thousands of pushing and shoving people all trying to avoid the heat and still the wonderful creations that might be new to this years event.  Once in a while a new vendor will show up with something new and different and really cause a stir, but over the years we see the return of those we have seen many times before.  I do miss the basket weavers that create their wares as we stand and watch.  I could watch them for hours. 

This week, and yes I know I am behind, I will dig up the hostas and divide them and hope I get enough crowns to have a beautiful grouping next spring.  I have to move 9 crowns that are getting way too much sun and place them in a shaded area.  The sun blistered most of them until they looked horrible  in mid summer, but I should have known better than to expose them to full sun.  They will have more shade next year and hopefully be as full and beautiful all summer as they were this spring.

Until next time . . .

Happy reading!
Belle

Seasons

Goodness gracious, my body gets so confused this time of year!  The days start off cool and comfortable with slight breezes blowing through, then wham!  the temperatures rise to the mid 90s with air thick with humidity.  Fall is on the way, I have to adjust, and in just a couple of months I will be dreaming of warm weather once again!  So is life!

Cooking On My Mind

The cooler mornings stirs my craving to start a pot of soup and something to take care of my sweet tooth.  Some delicious Broccoli and Cheese or flavorful Potato Soup would really be yummy.  I have promised Dad for two weeks a pot of vegetable soup and that would work wonders also.  The smell of onions, celery and garlic in a rich chicken broth gets the saliva flowing and comforts the mind and body.  

I discussed with my nephew this week - he is a great Paula Dean fan -  possibilities for our Thanksgiving Dinner.  He is a wonderful cook and always surprises us with his delicious creations.  I thought I might need to give him a heads up so he could start planning which dishes he would like to bring.  I know, we still have two and half months to go, but I told you these cool mornings get me going.  I can already taste the cranberry salad with the cream cheese and pecans just flowing over my taste buds and bringing a smile to my face.

I think I will bake more bread this year also.  It isn't good for the waistline, but it is a sure stress reliever and makes me happy.  There is nothing better than a good sweetbread fresh from the bread machine.  Yes, I cheat!  That machine can bring forth the same delectable aromas and the wonderful taste as my mixing and kneading ever thought about and in much less time. 

I haven't checked the pecan trees this year, but I am hoping that we have a decent crop.  Some toasted pecans drizzled with butter would be real good about now, but the time is not too far away.  The squirrels not only raped my corn feeders this year but also took every pear off three trees and got most of the plums to boot.  Anything with a seed was fair game this year for those little varmints and I intend on getting some back in the form of squirrel dumplings in the not too distant future.  They are nice and plump after a summer filled with eating. 

Well, I think it is time to start the potato soup so I will leave you with your thoughts for now.  Until next time . . .

Happy reading!
Belle

Thank you!  The last few weekends have been spent with treasured friends and family.  We have enjoyed a wonderful summer together and created memories to be cherished.  Thank you for taking the time to share with me. 

Cobbler

I have the taste for some peach cobbler!  Easy to make

One stick of butter (melt in a glass baking dish in the microwave)
One cup of sugar, one cup of flour, one cup of milk - stir together well until smooth
Pour three to four cups of fruit into melted butter, add milk/flour/sugar batter - do not stir
Bake in 375 - 400 degree oven for about 45 minutes or until golden brown. Yummy!

What A Hoot!

My sister and I were raised by my Dad as his "boys" - no joke!  There is so much to do on the farm and not the first chore at our house was labeled "male" or "female", they were all just chores and had to be done.  I say that to say this. 

I received a phone call from my Dad this morning.  He ask what I was doing and I told him I was doing some writing.  Then he ask what I had on.  Well, then I hesitated, and asked for a repeat.  Well, he just chuckled and told me to put on some old clothes and come over.  Nope, not on your life!  I ask "Why?" .  Well, I need you to take the tire off Mama's van so I can plug it.  I told him to hold on I would be there in a little bit.  Nope - wasn't gonna happen!  I am no longer his "boy" and at 59 years of age, this old lady don't do tires. 

Last summer he suckered me into coming over to hold a light for him and I ended up under the lawn mower!  I just can't do that stuff anymore, but he doesn't understand cause I am still 26 years younger than he is and he would do it himself if he could just get down there so he could reach it.  We sure have let him down! 

Until next time . . .

Happy reading!
Belle

Labor Day Weekend

The end of so much and the beginning of much more.  This is the last holiday of the summer season.  Will you be dove hunting on Saturday or trying to get in a final swim for this season, a quick weekend trip or a start on your fall camping early? 

Kids are coming off the mountain for the weekend and spend some time with Nanna.  I am looking forward to seeing them again before their holy days start and trek off to their feast site.  It has really hit home how little time one has when little ones are in school and have a strict schedule to which they must adhere.  I guess it has been a few years and I had forgotten how little time there is between getting off work and time for bed. 

My grandchildren have a play room at our house.  I try to enter this room about every two weeks - it can be a danger zone.  The kids are not destructive, just very creative and the girls favorite game is dress up.  We are big on passing down clothing and it seems the playroom is the central depository for the clothes in transition.  Three weeks ago I trekked upstairs to straighten the playroon to find that something was blocking the door.  Not knowing what was holding the door, I cracked it a little and ran my hand along the edge to see what was wedged behind it, only to find clothes, clothes and more clothes!  Clothes covered every inch of the floor and the beds, but their "stage" (an old trunk I found at an estate sale) was clean as a whistle.  There were a few building blocks and baby dolls under the bed, but these girls had every stitch of hand-me-down clothing scattered all over the room. 

The fashion show that they can grace us with is astounding and brings me much joy.  Already at their young ages you can see their style and taste in each outfit they put together.  They can entertain themselves (and us) for hours and they have so much fun!

Hubby has plans to fill the smoker up with good eats and we plan to enjoy family and friends for the weekend.  I hope all of you have a safe and happy holiday!  I am already planning for Thanksgiving and another big get together!

Until next time  . . .

Happy reading!
Belle

Sixty Years

Today is my parents anniversary, their sixtieth anniversay!  That is a long time to live with someone - anyone.  I salute them for sticking it out!  It was not always fun and games.  There were good times and bad, sickness and health, poor times and times of plenty.  They kept their vows and remained steadfast to their life partner. 

Happy anniversary Mom and Dad!

I am a happy camper!  I just got a truck load of cedar chips!
My plants & trees will be so happy with their new mulch!

After a busy weekend, today will be restful.  Nothing demanding my attention and looks as though the temperatures will be headed downward for the rest of the week, so maybe I will be able to get outside and dig and pull. 

Hubby did an outstanding job on a beef brisket on Friday evening.  Marinating in yogurt for about 4 hours, then smoking uncovered for 4 hours, then seasoning and wrapping for a night of slow cooking, this baby turned out fantastic.  Tender and moist, even the kids were eating it by the handfuls.  The flavor was out of this world and as you know a brisket is not the top of the line when it comes to moistness and tenderness, but the unflavored yogurt did its work and broke down those fibers.  Good eating!

The grandchildren, nieces, and nephews enjoyed a long swim while the older folks relaxed and watched.  A peaceful and restful afternoon. 

In ten days my parents will be married for 60 years.  That's a long time to live with one person.  I am proud of their efforts and the fact they have hung in there and not thrown in the towel.  It hasn't all been a bed of roses, but they have managed to work around the thorns without any deep injuries and the scars have made their marriage stronger.  There are still days they get on each other's nerves, but hey after 60 years they have a right. 

Thanks for dropping by and until next time . . .

Happy reading!
Belle

Yeah! Another one learned to swim!

Thoughts and Deeds

I can feel it coming and I am so ready.  It is time for those end of Summer chores in anticipation of the cold, wet days of winter.  No, it isn't fall yet, but in order to enjoy the turning leaves and the cool mornings, there is much outside work to be done.  The mornings are cooler and the late afternoons are conducive to getting those bushes straightened out, cleaning that garden up, planting the fall veggies, and just general maintenance.

I have spent two wonderfully relaxing and enjoyable weeks with friends and family.  A couple of hours of an afternoon in the pool and good conversation brightens my day.  I have wonderful friends and good things have been going on in their lives.  Nothing restores me better than their positive attitudes, their laughter, and the fellowship we share.  Can't wait until the next visit. Thank you my friends.

With the heat and the rain I am much behind in my grass cutting.  I have talked myself out of getting out there just by watching the weather forecast and the potential for rain, but today I can procrastinate no longer.  It must be done and I must do it.  The trick is not to cut the television on and see a weather forecast.  Glenn Burns can sometimes be my friend, but other times he is the devil's advocate leading me to be slovenly in my outdoor chores, but I cannot blame him for the 100 degree temps we have seen of late. 

My banana trees have grown tremendously.  The little information tab stuck in the side of the pot when they were purchased advised the trees could grow as much as 2 feet per week.  Well mine just sat there, adding a few little leaves every week, but not growing at all.  Not knowing what kind of fertilizer a banana tree prefers, about four weeks ago I took the chance and mixed a weak Miracle Gro (all-purpose) solution and doused each tree with a half gallon.  While I anticipated the leaves shrivelling up and turning brown, I was much surprised when they grew about a foot in the first week and then another foot on the second week when they received another half gallon of solution.  The trees tripled in size and the dark green of the leaves are beautiful.  Wish I had become desperate sooner, but hey I am still new at this tropical plant stuff, but I am learning!  Now if I could find the answer to making a Sago grow faster, but I have been told they are slow growers.  We will see, maybe they need a little Miracle Gro solution also.

Earlier in the week I made a visit to the local thrift store and hit the jackpot.  I found a dozen or so books to add to my reading for the fall and winter.  All the books were in great condition and I even found two or three first editions in the batch and all for about 50 cents each.  Not a bad find if I say so myself.  I am working through Grisham's books at the moment, but found a Ludlam, Clancy and Grimes I wanted to read, plus some authors I haven't read before so I am excited to start on those and see if we can become friends. I was so excited I may make another trip next week.  Joy can be found in the strangest places.

I am much excited over my daughter's research into the cause of her eczema and food allergies which she has suffered with since two years old.  An Air Force baby, I had taken her to the base for a well baby check up even though she was prone to head and chest colds.  The base did not have separate waiting rooms for well and sick babies.  In a weeks time she had developed a nasty cold which earned another trip to the based doctor.  A small patch of red had developed under her little nose that wouldn't heal and I was advised she had developed impetigo.  After rounds of cream and antibiotics the patch finally cleared only to have a rash break out on other parts of her little body.  The doctors advised it was heat rash and gave me an ointment.  As soon as I would get one rash cleared another would appear and for the last 34 years my daughter has fought the rash.  Doctor after doctor could not identify the cause so to the allergist she went sometimes with me sometimes with my mother.  Picked, probed, and stuck over and over, we were told she was allergic to food and her diet needed to be rotated as when she would eat something repeatedly she would develop an allergic reaction to it. 
 
Thus has been my daughters life with allergies.  This week she has been researching the causes of her health problems.  Hopefully she has found the answer in the form of Candida albans, a fungal yeast that thrives in the body once it establishes itself and destroys the healthy bacteria that keeps our body's functioning as God designed.  You can link to her site through the link at the bottom of the right hand column of this page.  She is documenting her problems and progress through this adventure in the hope that it may help some other soul that is experiencing like problems.  She as always is in my prayers and I hope she has found the answer.

I have a new grandchild in the form of a 4 month old Maltese.  Bentley is his name and he is a precious addition to our family.  The grandchildren love him dearly.  If they can keep the little bundle of white fur out of the lake he will give them many years of happiness.

Dad felt the hand of God clear the blood clot from his body and it was caught by the age old stint.  He is back in motion and riding his scooter.  He told me yesterday he had cut back the English Ivy off the house that had overgrown the window sills.  He may have been down for months, but he is back at it and going strong.  Maybe God just wanted to keep him out of the garden and the hot sun this year.  I am just glad he is up and about once again and the angel of death has given us a reprieve.  

For the first time in many years I am ready for fall.  The summer has been extremely hot and humid and has hindered my activity and as a result my motivation and thinking.  I look forward to the cooler days of fall.  Well, that about catches me up with our doings, so until next time . . .

Happy reading!
Belle 

Praying hard for a friend that professes Christianity only to
speak of others with bitterness and hatred.  The mouth reveals
the thoughts of the mind and heart.  Guard your mind that your
words are pleasing to God.

If you don't know what you are talking about,
Please keep your mouth shut!

Thank you God for catching me when I stumble!

Back to School

God Bless All Teachers!

I have a lot of children that I consider mine - not just my grandchildren, but nieces and nephews and children of friends.  Here is a run down of the first week of school.

Nephew, year two - Teacher is mean and he hates school
Nephew, year seven (First year teen) - Girls, girls, girls
Niece, first year - Loves teacher but hates school and isn't going back - doesn't want to take naps (maybe she only sleeps well at home and I can't argue with that)
Granddaughter, first year - Hates teacher she is mean and makes me do what she tells me to and I have to sit at the table and do my work
Granddaughter, second year - Loves the teacher, loves school, loves friends (one out of 6 ain't bad)
Granddaughter, home schooled - Oh well!
Grandson, home schooled (pre-teen) - I'm not ready!

Well, there you have it!  It is a good thing that children are flexible. 

Going to school is a big adjustment for little ones.  Not only do they encounter teachers and friends with different personalities, backgrounds and cultures, they are expected to change their daily routines to fit the pattern of school.  Taking instruction from a stranger is a big change in a little ones life, but if they don't learn to take instruction from others, as adults they will run into one roadblock after another.

It is hard to teach a child that already thinks they know everything, but when you encounter the child that is ea
eager to learn and enjoys the process you have hit pay dirt.  Teachers have the job of encouraging a child to want to learn.  Theirs is the most important job in a child's education.  To be able to instill this desire is a great gift to be spread throughout the classroom. 

There are so many people struggling to survive in today's world simply because they were never instilled with the wonders of learning. 

Thank you teachers and God Bless each and everyone of you.  Until next time . . .

Happy reading!
Belle

Can you smell Fall coming?

My Pleasure

Hubby and I had the honor of hosting a boy scout troop this weekend.  Five young men and their leaders camped in the edge of the woods in back of our home.  They were most pleasant and very well mannered.  They did their "boy scout camping" stuff and we shared some of their free time.  A thank you is not enough to express our gratitude to them for sharing allowing us to spend this last weekend before school starts back with them.  Being pre-teen boys, hubby and I were unsure what we would encounter with these boys, but they reaffirmed our faith in the youth of today and the leaders of tomorrow.  Thank you guys!

Saturday was a full day of a swimming birthday party.  Our youngest granddaughter turned four this past week.  The pool was filled with laughter and squeals as her friends and family all splashed away in the pool.  In these long hot dog days of summer there is no better place to entertain so many little ones so effortless.  Her maternal grandmother arrived with a splendid birthday cake that brought out the oohs and aahs of little ones and adults alike and sure brought a fantastic smile to the birthday girl.  The three tiered pink cake topped with a crown and trimmed to the nines was beautiful and it was all eatable.  This very talented lady's creations never cease to amaze me.  Granddads, grandmas, aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends all gathered to celebrate this one of a kind princess.  

Sunday morning found me and hubby rocking on the porch with our coffee and our thoughts of a wonderful weekend.  The house was awfully quiet with only the son-in-law left with us.  Tired, but happy, we rocked, talked, and relaxed.  We do realize we can no longer have this kind of weekend every week, but we sure do enjoy those that come along once in a while. 

Thanks for stopping by and until next time . . .

Happy reading!

Belle

God's Blessing

Having diligently worked on cleaning the field behind the barn, I was tired and a little depressed.  I found my broody hen dead Monday morning and her seven eggs eaten.  I have put a lot of time and effort in my little brood and laugh if you must, but a whole lot of my heart into my little ladies.  I have yet to find a snake in the coop, but I know I have some kind of varmint that loves my eggs.  

So,  when the slow rain started this morning, I knew God was speaking to my heart and He had provided the quiet relaxing rain to soothe my sore mind.  With cup of coffee in hand, I sat in the rocker watching the raindrops slowly descent on my little world.  There came a flood of blessings as I sat and contemplated all the changes in my world over the last few months.  I could have dwelled on the many hardships and disappointments, but they did not even cross my mind.  God has been extremely good to me. Having always had a deep and abiding trust that God would lead me where He needed me to be, I have leaned on His guidance more in the past year than ever before and true to His promise I have been greatly blessed.

There have been many times in my life that I distanced myself from God and His love and tried to make a go of life on my own.  After all I am an intelligent person with great decision making skills, but it never worked.  There was always something missing or things would just fall apart.  After a good many "fall downs" I realized that God's decision making skills were a great deal better than mine and following His directions were always so much simpler and a positive outcome always followed.

There are still a few projects God has me working on and with the blessings I have received following his instructions, I know He will see these through to fruition. 

Thanks for the visit and until next time . . .

Happy reading!
Belle

Hey! It's hot out there!

Thank you to those who have visited me and my thoughts over the past year!  It has been most rewarding and has brought me much joy!  I hope you continue to visit me as much as possible.

Happy 50th birthday to my sweet hubby!

Innocent - I Don't Think So!

My granddaughters range in age from 8 to 5 to almost 4.  The two older girls come directly to me with their requests for candy, popsicles, cookies, drinks or whatever they think they must have at the time.  The youngest however, stands back to get my reaction and if it is a negative response, she bypasses me to either her Dad, Mom, or Aunt Jenn.  (PawPaw gets bypassed also as he thinks just like Nanna). 

As I sat rocking while watching and listening to their play, the older girls came running to ask for a fudgesicle.  Having just finished dinner with desert, I told them they could have one later, but not right now.  They ran back to their play passing little bit on the way.  Apparently they advised her enroute that the answer was no.  she bypasses me and headed for the door only to be met by Mama.  Trying her best to keep Mama inside rather than out, she started with "I want" only to be rudely interrupted by Nanna.  It didn't work this time. Her Dad was sitting at the patio table and we laughed at her attempt to outsmart me which really made her mad.  Off she went to play with the older girls, crestfallen that she didn't win this time either.  By the way, they did get their ice cream later.

I want to point out that it isn't always the youngest that is the manipulator.  It swaps around as to what is wanted and who feels like the best negotiator at the time.  Sometimes they even recruit the grandson as the negotiator and at twelve he has experience and knowledge the other three are lacking. 

I can see that their parents are in for a hard time as they get older.  Girls have a tendancy to stick together and try to reason things out, whereas a girl and a boy pretty much go their own way and they get what they get. Conspiracy against adults is not a new thing.  My sister and I did the same thing.  Our only problem was our interest did not follow the same routes. 

I always loved to ride and Mom and Dad's Sunday afternoon jaunts were exciting for me, however my sister would get car sick and didn't enjoy the riding at all.  Our annual trips to Daytona Beach were all started at night so Sis would go to sleep leaving Mom and Dad to enjoy the long ride.  But that didn't mean that we didn't conspire on other issues.

It is a pleasure to watch them grow, to experience the expansion of their minds and their desires for their future.  It will be interesting to see if they follow their dreams or find other areas of interest that side tracks them from their goals.  Of course at this young age, they are limited to their exposure to what the world holds.

Thanks for sharing with me this morning and until next time . . .

Happy reading!
Belle  

Pears, Spiders and other anomalies of my life

I have an abundance of pears this year which due to the weight of the little gems has led to the loss of many limbs out of my three trees.  Now the squirrels have started devouring them so I don't look to have many left to ripen.  They love pear seeds and don't mind one bit chopping down to the core of the pears to get to the seeds.  Strange though, once they eat the seeds the rest of the pear goes on the ground to rot.  Finicky little eaters, but I will sure have some fat squirrels to make dumplings with this fall!

The spiders are out again also.  I found the largest milk/writing spider I have seen to date guarding the handle to the barn faucet.  I hate to disturb a web in the wild as they catch so many insects. but this fierce looking spider was not about to get a chance of tasting my skin.  I broke part of the web so I good but on the faucet and left the other alone.  I don't think he/she was happy, but this morning the break was repaired so maybe I am somewhat forgiven.  I hope it understands when I have to break it loose again this afternoon. 

It will be a busy week outside with all the wonderful rain we received the past four days.  The temps are set to rise but I think I can get it all done before it gets too hot.  Work is calling so until next time . . .

Happy reading!
Belle

God's doing some weedeating,
I lost another tree to lightning!

Line dried sheets feel and smell so-o-o-o good!

Happiness is taking your Dad (who is the ace barbecue cooker) a smoked Boston Butt and him ordering another one for next weekend!

Coming to Terms

Dad is 86 years old - I know so are a lot of other people. He believes God has given him 16 years past the 70 years that God promised him as a believer and dedicated worshipper of the Lord.  Has he given up - not by any means, but he has decided that the future is between him and God.  He refuses to die in a hospital, nursing home, or hospice and that is his decision to make. 

I talk to my Dad every day.  I don't see him every day, but either he calls me or I call him.  Sometimes just to say I love you.  There were many many years that we could not say those words to each other, but we are well past that.  He understands me probably better than even my children.  He doesn't like everything about me but loves me unconditionally.  Dad has never "let go" of either me or my sister and it's okay.

Plagued by blood clots for many many years and pretty sure of a blood clot in his right leg and possibly one in his left foot, he is not as mobile as he would wish.  He has resigned himself to moving as little as possible (up and down) and making do with the pain.  I am told he is even trying to be nice even though he is unhappy and uncomfortable. 

Knowing that his time may be short, I have gone through many emotions, reviewed my memories, and I am at peace with his decision.  This is not to say I am ready for him to go - I won't be ready for that in 10 or even 20 years.  I would like for him to be released from pain and the inability to live his life and he once did, but I know that we all face that at some period in life.  Am I saying goodbye?  Yes and no, I prefer to think I am just getting ready, but I don't really believe we are ever ready.  Dad has not been in good health for the last 5 years and I have adjusted myself to the fact that anytime I talk to him it could be the last. 

I am taking him some barbecue in just a while so I will see how he feels.  It doesn't matter at this point whether the pork is good for him or not, he loves it!

Thanks for dropping in to share this time and until next time  . . .

Happy reading!
Belle

What to do?!?

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

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.

You know it is gonna be a bad day when your horoscope says
Reading not available!
Belle

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

If this is the first day of the rest of my life,
I hope the road is paved and the air is light.
Belle

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

Chihuahuas love heat, but mine are panting!
Time to bring them in . . .

This was posted on Facebook recently and has really stuck with me.  The author is unknown.

"It is sad when a great friend becomes a stranger,
but it is a joy when a stranger becomes a great friend."

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

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

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

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

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? 

Your parents will only be parents
As long as you act like a child.

Belle