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.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)