For the past several years I have set myself some goals for the New Year. I have typed them up and framed them and put them in my bedroom so that I can read them often and try to "better myself" throughout the year. I have not always achieved all of them, but it has kept me more focused on the things I would like to do.
Last year I was setting my framed goals on my desk and said to JC, "Look at my goals for 2009."
His response, "about the same as always." Well, he did not know that this little comment sorta hit a nerve with me. Not a bad nerve, just got me to thinking that maybe I was in a rut. I have thought about it off and on all year.
So, I made a big mistake the other day and talked to JC about the 2009 goals and I said, "You and your sister need to help me set some goals for 2010." Now, I was serious - they found this as a great opportunity to "really help" their mother.
Here is a list of the goals they typed up of me. I will comment on each of them after I list them.
2010 Goals set by JC and Kalyn for their mother:
1. Run marathon in December
2. Learn to play a lute
3.Have less gas
4. Read In Defense of Food by Michael Pollan
5. Wear more clothes next year
6.Get a dog
7. Do not boss Dad around so much
8. Become Mayor of Menard
9. Move my children two or three times
10. Come out of the closet: You're a democrat. You should consider going before the church.
11. WW lifetime member
12.Monthly Craft Goal
13. Weekly blog post
14. Read in the Bible every day
15. Walk 3 times a week, Lift weights or do abs lounger two times a week
16. Cook one new recipe a week
17. ESTBS
My response:
1. I cannot walk three miles with out hurting, how can I possible run 26 miles!
2. I do not know what a lute is, so why would I want to learn to play one!
3. I am a lady I do not discuss the subject of #3.
4. I will, I will, I will!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
5. The reasoning behind this is because I am so cold natured, not because I do not properly dress. I agree I need to wear thicker fabrics or layer - but I hate the "closed" in feeling.
6. Never! Abby is all I need in the animal department. Grand doggies are enough for me.
7. I do not boss Dad now, Don't know what you are talking about.
8. I hated being on City council, will not ever even think about Mayor.
9. Do not want to think about this, it makes my body sore.
10. I do not do politics, hate them. I am staying in the closet and would appreciate everyone respecting my decision and leave me alone on that subject.
11 - 17. YES, YES, YES I will try to accomplish.
Oh boy, some of their ideas - makes me wonder what I was thinking to ask for their help! The one thing I have to be thankful for is they did not get BJ's input! No telling what he would have added.
Really, though, I do like some of the ideas and later I will post my real 2010 list of goals.
Thursday, December 31, 2009
Friday, September 25, 2009
Absolutely Nothing
Children are a blessing from God.
There is absolutely nothing I love more than spending time with my kids.
This week I got to spend time with JC, Kalyn and BJ. It was a wonderful week.
I have heard people say that the infant years were their favorite time; or the toddler years; or the teen years; or they liked it when the kids were grown and gone. But I will have to say I loved every stage of raising the kids. I think I just grew with them through every stage. Yes, there were hard times and there are times I can think of that I would like to take back and redo, but I can't. I was a far from perfect mother, but with lots of prayers and Gods help, these kids still turned out great. (Of course I did not get to raise BJ - we got him when he was already done, and are very thankful we have him)
Now, I will say these three are not perfect. They can all be a little ornery. And they sure get a lot of laughs at my expense. There may be one or two things I would change(ha ha), but over all I think they are good human beings. And they all three have big hearts.
And in this mother's eyes they sure are good looking!
I am so thankful for the past week. It was fast, but wonderful. Lots of good food, lots of laughs, lots of good memories.
Gratitude: I am so thankful for JC, Kalyn and BJ.
Prayer: I pray that we get many more years together.
There is absolutely nothing I love more than spending time with my kids.
This week I got to spend time with JC, Kalyn and BJ. It was a wonderful week.
I have heard people say that the infant years were their favorite time; or the toddler years; or the teen years; or they liked it when the kids were grown and gone. But I will have to say I loved every stage of raising the kids. I think I just grew with them through every stage. Yes, there were hard times and there are times I can think of that I would like to take back and redo, but I can't. I was a far from perfect mother, but with lots of prayers and Gods help, these kids still turned out great. (Of course I did not get to raise BJ - we got him when he was already done, and are very thankful we have him)
Now, I will say these three are not perfect. They can all be a little ornery. And they sure get a lot of laughs at my expense. There may be one or two things I would change(ha ha), but over all I think they are good human beings. And they all three have big hearts.
And in this mother's eyes they sure are good looking!
I am so thankful for the past week. It was fast, but wonderful. Lots of good food, lots of laughs, lots of good memories.
Gratitude: I am so thankful for JC, Kalyn and BJ.
Prayer: I pray that we get many more years together.
Monday, September 7, 2009
Two Great Minds Think Alike or Caught In The Middle?
My family has gotten a good laugh over this little incident that happened last week.
I read The Pioneer Woman blog everyday. I absolutely love it. It makes me happy and always puts a smile on my face. Kalyn also reads her blog and has cooked several of her recipes. The Pioneer Woman has been writing a cookbook and I, like all her other followers, have been reading about her whole process and looking forward to the day it would be finished.
The other day I clicked on to have my daily reading and the title is "It is Finished". Yes, she has finished the cookbook. I called JC, " Would you please do me a favor?"
JC: Sure, lady, what?
Me: Go to Pioneer Woman blog and I'll show you.
(Now keep in mind - I have done this to him often. I show him things on Pioneer Woman AND I always call him and get him to do my internet ordering for me. He is such a good son to put up with my funny quirks.)
JC: OK, I'm there.
Me: Look she has finished her cookbook! I am so excited! Please click on and preorder me two of the books. One for me and one for Kalyn for Christmas.
JC: Ok, I will.
Now, the next day - I am still so excited about all this and I am talking to JC on the phone. "Did you get my cookbooks ordered, I do not want them to sell out?"
JC: laughingly says "No I did not."
Me: What? Why not?
JC: Mom, I was just about to finish the order and Kalyn called and said "Bro, the Pioneer Woman has finished her cookbook and she will be in Austin for a book signing. You HAVE got to go to Austin for me and get one of the books signed for Mom for Christmas."
So he click on cancel. Started laughing. Told Kalyn what he had been doing and said, "I am just going to tell both of you and I will go to Austin and get both of you a signed cookbook."
JC, sorry we put you in the middle.
Kalyn, thank you for thinking of this absolutely wonderful idea for my Christmas gift. I can't wait to get it, I know it is going to be wonderful. I will also enjoy giving you yours!
Gratitude: Blogs.
Prayer: That my children will continue to always love me - even with my funny quirks.
I read The Pioneer Woman blog everyday. I absolutely love it. It makes me happy and always puts a smile on my face. Kalyn also reads her blog and has cooked several of her recipes. The Pioneer Woman has been writing a cookbook and I, like all her other followers, have been reading about her whole process and looking forward to the day it would be finished.
The other day I clicked on to have my daily reading and the title is "It is Finished". Yes, she has finished the cookbook. I called JC, " Would you please do me a favor?"
JC: Sure, lady, what?
Me: Go to Pioneer Woman blog and I'll show you.
(Now keep in mind - I have done this to him often. I show him things on Pioneer Woman AND I always call him and get him to do my internet ordering for me. He is such a good son to put up with my funny quirks.)
JC: OK, I'm there.
Me: Look she has finished her cookbook! I am so excited! Please click on and preorder me two of the books. One for me and one for Kalyn for Christmas.
JC: Ok, I will.
Now, the next day - I am still so excited about all this and I am talking to JC on the phone. "Did you get my cookbooks ordered, I do not want them to sell out?"
JC: laughingly says "No I did not."
Me: What? Why not?
JC: Mom, I was just about to finish the order and Kalyn called and said "Bro, the Pioneer Woman has finished her cookbook and she will be in Austin for a book signing. You HAVE got to go to Austin for me and get one of the books signed for Mom for Christmas."
So he click on cancel. Started laughing. Told Kalyn what he had been doing and said, "I am just going to tell both of you and I will go to Austin and get both of you a signed cookbook."
JC, sorry we put you in the middle.
Kalyn, thank you for thinking of this absolutely wonderful idea for my Christmas gift. I can't wait to get it, I know it is going to be wonderful. I will also enjoy giving you yours!
Gratitude: Blogs.
Prayer: That my children will continue to always love me - even with my funny quirks.
Friday, June 19, 2009
Daddy
Father's Day weekend is coming up this weekend and I want to take a moment to remember my daddy.
I was only 15 years old when I lost my daddy. Anytime is a hard time to lose a parent, but 15 was a hard time to lose your daddy. In my eyes, I still needed him.
Dad and I had not gone through driver's training together, we had not gone through the years of me begging to stay out late, or me begging to take the car somewhere. He had not seen me grow into a woman, I had not graduated, we had not decided what I should do with my life after school. We had not finished the dating years, he had not approved of the man I was to marry. He had not walked me down the isle. He would not get to know my children. We had so much unfinished business. Still so much to do. I needed him.
To this day I have my daddy on a pedestal. I have very fond memories. I see him setting at the head of the table, laughing - his belly jiggling. I see him with Mom. I see him enjoying Mom's cooking. I see him being ornery and teasing someone. I see him in the outside swing. I see him in the recliner watching the news. I see him in a pickup driving (so slow I do not want my friends to see us! this is important at 15), I see him with sheep, hogs, Dolly, cows, chickens. But I do not see him with a cat. I see him holding a child and smiling. I see him in church. I see him pitching horseshoes, washers. I see him playing cards and domino's. And there is so much more. I can still feel the kiss on my cheek to say good night. And every night "I love you, daddy" and he would tease and say "no you don't", "yes, I do daddy".
I felt so safe when he was there and at first, so scared when he wasn't.
I still miss him. I wish he would have known who I married - his best friends boy. I wish he would have known my kids and I sure wish they would have known him. But someday when we all meet on the other side..................
Gratitude: Thank you for giving me Horton Farr for my daddy.
Prayer: Keep John safe and healthy, so our kids can have their daddy for many years.
I am so thankful God blessed me with Horton and Violet Farr as parents. I do not know why I deserved the best, but in my eyes that is what I got.
Happy Father's Day
by Tami Blackwell
Give 'em a hug, a great big kiss.
Because one day, he will be greatly missed.
My daddy has gone far away from this land,
I miss the precious touch of his loving hands.
I never knew last year was the last day,
I could look at my daddy, hug him, and say:
"I love you, Daddy! Happy Father's Day!"
Don't let one day go by without telling him
how dear he is!
Remember you may not have another year to tell him this!
All I have now is great memories, a heart
full of love and eyes full of tears, and
to remember his love throughout the years.
Now I will have to look up at the stars and say,
"I love you, Daddy! Happy Father's Day!"
Please remember when you pray, to thank your
heavenly father up above.
For your father he gave you with so much love.
"He lived, for Jesus died;
He died, for Jesus Lives."
I was only 15 years old when I lost my daddy. Anytime is a hard time to lose a parent, but 15 was a hard time to lose your daddy. In my eyes, I still needed him.
Dad and I had not gone through driver's training together, we had not gone through the years of me begging to stay out late, or me begging to take the car somewhere. He had not seen me grow into a woman, I had not graduated, we had not decided what I should do with my life after school. We had not finished the dating years, he had not approved of the man I was to marry. He had not walked me down the isle. He would not get to know my children. We had so much unfinished business. Still so much to do. I needed him.
To this day I have my daddy on a pedestal. I have very fond memories. I see him setting at the head of the table, laughing - his belly jiggling. I see him with Mom. I see him enjoying Mom's cooking. I see him being ornery and teasing someone. I see him in the outside swing. I see him in the recliner watching the news. I see him in a pickup driving (so slow I do not want my friends to see us! this is important at 15), I see him with sheep, hogs, Dolly, cows, chickens. But I do not see him with a cat. I see him holding a child and smiling. I see him in church. I see him pitching horseshoes, washers. I see him playing cards and domino's. And there is so much more. I can still feel the kiss on my cheek to say good night. And every night "I love you, daddy" and he would tease and say "no you don't", "yes, I do daddy".
I felt so safe when he was there and at first, so scared when he wasn't.
I still miss him. I wish he would have known who I married - his best friends boy. I wish he would have known my kids and I sure wish they would have known him. But someday when we all meet on the other side..................
Gratitude: Thank you for giving me Horton Farr for my daddy.
Prayer: Keep John safe and healthy, so our kids can have their daddy for many years.
I am so thankful God blessed me with Horton and Violet Farr as parents. I do not know why I deserved the best, but in my eyes that is what I got.
Happy Father's Day
by Tami Blackwell
Give 'em a hug, a great big kiss.
Because one day, he will be greatly missed.
My daddy has gone far away from this land,
I miss the precious touch of his loving hands.
I never knew last year was the last day,
I could look at my daddy, hug him, and say:
"I love you, Daddy! Happy Father's Day!"
Don't let one day go by without telling him
how dear he is!
Remember you may not have another year to tell him this!
All I have now is great memories, a heart
full of love and eyes full of tears, and
to remember his love throughout the years.
Now I will have to look up at the stars and say,
"I love you, Daddy! Happy Father's Day!"
Please remember when you pray, to thank your
heavenly father up above.
For your father he gave you with so much love.
"He lived, for Jesus died;
He died, for Jesus Lives."
Monday, June 15, 2009
Family Reunions
I am so thankful for family reunions. I think they are so important. And I believe they are even more important now that both our parents are gone.
As long as mom was alive, we all heard from one another through her. She was our "hub". Now it just seems harder to "keep up". And I for one miss that. I miss knowing what everyone is doing, how everyone is feeling, where folks are moving, who's having the babies and when, where everyone is going for vacations. I miss praying specifically for someone's ailment, someone's traveling, someone's hardship, someone's big move, etc. I miss not getting to hear all the special blessings each family has that I will never get to know about, because at the time of the excitement, the phone call never gets made to our "hub" so the good news will be spread.
Mom always wanted us to tone down the activities and just visit. It took her passing for me to realize the importance of this. Now I hunger for the visiting, catching up on all the news, bringing the memories up and rehashing them, making new memories, shedding a tear and laughing till our sides hurt. Enjoying the activities, seeing how much the children have grown.....so much to take in - in one short weekend. Strengthening my bonds with my siblings, my nieces and nephews. Getting reacquainted with my great nieces and nephews and meeting some for the first time.
It will be another year now till we have another reunion. And I for one am sure looking forward to it.
Gratitude: My extended family (all 100+ of you). And for family reunions.
Prayer: Safe keeping for all my family in the following year. Please take care of them, I love them all.
As long as mom was alive, we all heard from one another through her. She was our "hub". Now it just seems harder to "keep up". And I for one miss that. I miss knowing what everyone is doing, how everyone is feeling, where folks are moving, who's having the babies and when, where everyone is going for vacations. I miss praying specifically for someone's ailment, someone's traveling, someone's hardship, someone's big move, etc. I miss not getting to hear all the special blessings each family has that I will never get to know about, because at the time of the excitement, the phone call never gets made to our "hub" so the good news will be spread.
Mom always wanted us to tone down the activities and just visit. It took her passing for me to realize the importance of this. Now I hunger for the visiting, catching up on all the news, bringing the memories up and rehashing them, making new memories, shedding a tear and laughing till our sides hurt. Enjoying the activities, seeing how much the children have grown.....so much to take in - in one short weekend. Strengthening my bonds with my siblings, my nieces and nephews. Getting reacquainted with my great nieces and nephews and meeting some for the first time.
It will be another year now till we have another reunion. And I for one am sure looking forward to it.
Gratitude: My extended family (all 100+ of you). And for family reunions.
Prayer: Safe keeping for all my family in the following year. Please take care of them, I love them all.
Monday, May 18, 2009
Fashion Terms
It is usually pretty late in the evening before John and I really get to get comfortable and just sit and relax. In the warmer months John likes to put on some shorts and an atheletic tee top and sit in his chair and run the channels.
A few nights ago, we had just sit down and started watching some TV, it was quiet in the house, peaceful. John spoke up and said, "Honey, is this what you call spaghetti straps?" (he was pointing to his tank top that he had on)
Of course, I start laughing my head off, "Noooo, that is NOT what you call spaghetti straps. If you start wearing spaghetti straps, I will be worried!"
Maybe we need to turn the TV off and start working on some fashion terms in our little abode. I would sure hate for him to tell someone he is into spaghetti straps, not a manly thing.
Graditude: Laughs.
Prayer: Help us to keep a good sense of humor.
A few nights ago, we had just sit down and started watching some TV, it was quiet in the house, peaceful. John spoke up and said, "Honey, is this what you call spaghetti straps?" (he was pointing to his tank top that he had on)
Of course, I start laughing my head off, "Noooo, that is NOT what you call spaghetti straps. If you start wearing spaghetti straps, I will be worried!"
Maybe we need to turn the TV off and start working on some fashion terms in our little abode. I would sure hate for him to tell someone he is into spaghetti straps, not a manly thing.
Graditude: Laughs.
Prayer: Help us to keep a good sense of humor.
Saturday, May 9, 2009
A Heart Still Breaking
This is the hardest post I have written. I have been debating for a long time whether to write it or not. I will have to tell a secret on myself and that is hard. But maybe it will help me heal a little more.
A year ago I went to the emergency room. No one knew I was going but John and the kids. I was having heart palpatations, hurting between my shoulders and short breath, and I had been experiencing it for about a week. My family was worried and I was concerned myself. This particular day it just seemed worse. After spending the whole afternoon there - all tests came back fine. I was so embarassed, I felt like an idiot.
What was wrong with me? I made my family all promise to not tell anyone. They all got upset with me for feeling that way about myself.
But with the tests all fine, we knew what the problem was. I was grieving for my mother. We all grieve differently. There is no right or wrong way. I tend to hold it in, put up a good front. I seem to do fine most of the time. February 15 - her birthday, I am fine. April 5 - the day she passed, I tend to do fine because it is John's birthday and I focus on that. But Mother's Day just seems to hurt so bad.
No, May 11, 2008- Mother's Day - I was not having a heart attack - I just had a heart still breaking.
Gratitude: I am so thankful Violet Farr was my mother.
Prayer: Dear Lord, please continue to heal all our broken hearts.
A year ago I went to the emergency room. No one knew I was going but John and the kids. I was having heart palpatations, hurting between my shoulders and short breath, and I had been experiencing it for about a week. My family was worried and I was concerned myself. This particular day it just seemed worse. After spending the whole afternoon there - all tests came back fine. I was so embarassed, I felt like an idiot.
What was wrong with me? I made my family all promise to not tell anyone. They all got upset with me for feeling that way about myself.
But with the tests all fine, we knew what the problem was. I was grieving for my mother. We all grieve differently. There is no right or wrong way. I tend to hold it in, put up a good front. I seem to do fine most of the time. February 15 - her birthday, I am fine. April 5 - the day she passed, I tend to do fine because it is John's birthday and I focus on that. But Mother's Day just seems to hurt so bad.
No, May 11, 2008- Mother's Day - I was not having a heart attack - I just had a heart still breaking.
Gratitude: I am so thankful Violet Farr was my mother.
Prayer: Dear Lord, please continue to heal all our broken hearts.
Sunday, May 3, 2009
One of My Forms of Discipline
This is a post of a memory that I want to get written down so I never forget it. I think this is funny. And I hope it has been enough years that my kids will get a chuckle out of this also.
I guess all parents come up with different ways of discipline when raising small ones - some good, some not. I am reminded of this particular "form of discipline" from time to time in church.
J.C. and Kalyn really did not argue that often, they got along most of the time. But as with all siblings living under the same roof, there is going to be an argument from time to time. When they would start raising those little voices in anger, I would start singing "Angry words, O let them never
from the tongue unbridled slip........" They would immediatly stop arguing and turn on ME, "MMMMoooooooooooooooooomm." Well, stop arguing.
Needless to say, my children do not like that song even today. But I chuckle everytime I hear it.
And you know what, I just bet they both do this same thing some day - and sorta grin when they do it.
Gratitude: Thank for our imaginations to come up with these clever ideas!
Prayer: That I REALLY take the words to that song and apply them to my life. Let me always choose my words carefully.
I guess all parents come up with different ways of discipline when raising small ones - some good, some not. I am reminded of this particular "form of discipline" from time to time in church.
J.C. and Kalyn really did not argue that often, they got along most of the time. But as with all siblings living under the same roof, there is going to be an argument from time to time. When they would start raising those little voices in anger, I would start singing "Angry words, O let them never
from the tongue unbridled slip........" They would immediatly stop arguing and turn on ME, "MMMMoooooooooooooooooomm." Well, stop arguing.
Needless to say, my children do not like that song even today. But I chuckle everytime I hear it.
And you know what, I just bet they both do this same thing some day - and sorta grin when they do it.
Gratitude: Thank for our imaginations to come up with these clever ideas!
Prayer: That I REALLY take the words to that song and apply them to my life. Let me always choose my words carefully.
Friday, April 24, 2009
Thank You, Honey
Oh the sacrifices spouses have to make sometimes. When it comes to food, mine is the best.
Tuesday is weigh in day for my Weight Watchers meetings. I eat very little on Tuesdays, very little. A couple of weeks ago some of our very best friends from church called me at work and asked us to come over for lunch - it was a Tuesday. Of course I said yes. After I hung up, I paniced.
I went to pick John up as usual for lunch and on our way I said "Now, honey, we have to make a plan. I can control what I put on my plate, but the dessert will already be dished up, so when we get dessert you eat yours and I will just take a couple of bites and slide the rest of mine over to you and you finish it for me. Nobody will notice." He said "Deal."
Well, usually dessert is a small to normal portion at their house. But, they had bought two cakes from their precious great-grandson for a fundraiser. They had cut a good slice of both cakes and put on both our plates. John's eyes got hugh. I looked at him like "you can do this." John ate his, I ate a couple small bites off mine and slid it over to him - he ate it. He was sick.
John gained three pounds. I lost 1.6.
Thank you, honey.
Gratitude: For all John's support in this weight loss journey I am on.
Prayer: I pray daily for God's help to keep me focused on this journey.
Tuesday is weigh in day for my Weight Watchers meetings. I eat very little on Tuesdays, very little. A couple of weeks ago some of our very best friends from church called me at work and asked us to come over for lunch - it was a Tuesday. Of course I said yes. After I hung up, I paniced.
I went to pick John up as usual for lunch and on our way I said "Now, honey, we have to make a plan. I can control what I put on my plate, but the dessert will already be dished up, so when we get dessert you eat yours and I will just take a couple of bites and slide the rest of mine over to you and you finish it for me. Nobody will notice." He said "Deal."
Well, usually dessert is a small to normal portion at their house. But, they had bought two cakes from their precious great-grandson for a fundraiser. They had cut a good slice of both cakes and put on both our plates. John's eyes got hugh. I looked at him like "you can do this." John ate his, I ate a couple small bites off mine and slid it over to him - he ate it. He was sick.
John gained three pounds. I lost 1.6.
Thank you, honey.
Gratitude: For all John's support in this weight loss journey I am on.
Prayer: I pray daily for God's help to keep me focused on this journey.
Thursday, April 16, 2009
I Killed A Snake !!
Can you believe that?!
Spring has sprung and that means yard work. It takes me a while to get started, but once I do I am addicted. I love planting my little plants and watering and watching them grow. I love the way my yard comes to life by the end of May. And it is beautiful in the summer.
Every year when I go out to begin cleaning out the flower beds, John always says "watch for snakes." Well, I went out and started cleaning and pulling weeds and raking and sure enough - I uncovered a SNAKE! Now, I hate snakes, I am scared to death of them. Usually I scream and run. But I guess at the ripe old age of 47 I knew I could handle this situation. I calmly walked over and got my grubbing hoe and walked back and chopped it into - 3 times! When asked what kind of snake I said "a live one!"
You know I would always think of Grandma Clampett when Mom would call me and tell me she had killed a snake or skunk or coon or whatever. Of course she usually used a gun, but she did use the ol' grubbing hoe at times. I guess I am slowly turning more into my mom as the years roll by.
I will never be as brave as Mom or Grandma Clampett. I will still scream and run when I see skunks or a snake with much size to it or just about any other living wild life, but for today I am going to feel smug because I did kill a snake!
Gratitude: My health so I can work in my yard and I am thankful I enjoy it.
Prayer: Please let everyone have the kindness to not ask what size the snake was. It does not really matter.
Spring has sprung and that means yard work. It takes me a while to get started, but once I do I am addicted. I love planting my little plants and watering and watching them grow. I love the way my yard comes to life by the end of May. And it is beautiful in the summer.
Every year when I go out to begin cleaning out the flower beds, John always says "watch for snakes." Well, I went out and started cleaning and pulling weeds and raking and sure enough - I uncovered a SNAKE! Now, I hate snakes, I am scared to death of them. Usually I scream and run. But I guess at the ripe old age of 47 I knew I could handle this situation. I calmly walked over and got my grubbing hoe and walked back and chopped it into - 3 times! When asked what kind of snake I said "a live one!"
You know I would always think of Grandma Clampett when Mom would call me and tell me she had killed a snake or skunk or coon or whatever. Of course she usually used a gun, but she did use the ol' grubbing hoe at times. I guess I am slowly turning more into my mom as the years roll by.
I will never be as brave as Mom or Grandma Clampett. I will still scream and run when I see skunks or a snake with much size to it or just about any other living wild life, but for today I am going to feel smug because I did kill a snake!
Gratitude: My health so I can work in my yard and I am thankful I enjoy it.
Prayer: Please let everyone have the kindness to not ask what size the snake was. It does not really matter.
Thursday, April 2, 2009
I Cried In J.C.Penny's
Anyone who knows me knows I have always been an emotional person. It does not take much to get the tears to rolling. Happy or sad tears. Here is one of my latest episodes.
When the kids were home for spring break we went to San Angelo shopping one day. This has always been a favorite pass time of ours. All four of us love getting out and even if we do not have the funds to buy anything all four of us love to look. My favorite son-in-law does not share this passion with us, so since he was not able to come with Kalyn we decided to go to San Angelo one day that we had together.
We went to the mall. When we were in Penny's I told Kalyn that I wanted to just try on a size smaller pant. I picked out a pair, went to the dressing room, slipped them on, I was able to hook them and zip them up. I was not uncomfortable, I stepped out to show Kalyn. She said that they looked good. I said, "Kalyn, I have not been able to fit in this size in over 25 years." Tears filled my eyes. It was exciting.
No one knows how hard it is to lose weight unless they have had to do it.
For me, it is the hardest job on earth.
No, I am not small - I have a long ways to go. But I am happy with the success I have had to this point.
Gratitude: I am so thankful for the support my boss (and friend) has given me on this journey. It has made it so much more fun and easier.
Prayer: That I can continue to stay focused on my goal until I reach it.
When the kids were home for spring break we went to San Angelo shopping one day. This has always been a favorite pass time of ours. All four of us love getting out and even if we do not have the funds to buy anything all four of us love to look. My favorite son-in-law does not share this passion with us, so since he was not able to come with Kalyn we decided to go to San Angelo one day that we had together.
We went to the mall. When we were in Penny's I told Kalyn that I wanted to just try on a size smaller pant. I picked out a pair, went to the dressing room, slipped them on, I was able to hook them and zip them up. I was not uncomfortable, I stepped out to show Kalyn. She said that they looked good. I said, "Kalyn, I have not been able to fit in this size in over 25 years." Tears filled my eyes. It was exciting.
No one knows how hard it is to lose weight unless they have had to do it.
For me, it is the hardest job on earth.
No, I am not small - I have a long ways to go. But I am happy with the success I have had to this point.
Gratitude: I am so thankful for the support my boss (and friend) has given me on this journey. It has made it so much more fun and easier.
Prayer: That I can continue to stay focused on my goal until I reach it.
Sunday, March 29, 2009
"She Was a Sweetie"
I went with John to his heart doctor appointment this past week and as we were leaving the examining room there right in front of me sat Donna.
Donna was mother's heart doctors nurse. We got to "know" each other over the years as I would take Mom to her appointments and many times I called her on the phone to ask a question when I would get worried about Mom or needed help with her medicines. Doctors and nurses have so many patients you just do not expect them to remember you, especially after two years. But Donna's face lit up and she smiled. I smiled back and said hi. She got up and came around the desk and asked how I was doing. I said good. She asked if that was my husband with me and I told her yes that he was seeing Dr. Burger and everything seems to be going good. She looked me in the eye and said "You're really doing okay?" Knowing her meaning I said, " Yes, I miss her so much."
Donna said, "She was a sweetie."
"Yes, she was a sweetheart - my best friend."
Gratitude: I am thankful that sweetie was my mother.
Prayer: I pray that when I die I will have lived the life that even after years of passing, my doctor's nurse will still remember me and say "she was a sweetie."
Donna was mother's heart doctors nurse. We got to "know" each other over the years as I would take Mom to her appointments and many times I called her on the phone to ask a question when I would get worried about Mom or needed help with her medicines. Doctors and nurses have so many patients you just do not expect them to remember you, especially after two years. But Donna's face lit up and she smiled. I smiled back and said hi. She got up and came around the desk and asked how I was doing. I said good. She asked if that was my husband with me and I told her yes that he was seeing Dr. Burger and everything seems to be going good. She looked me in the eye and said "You're really doing okay?" Knowing her meaning I said, " Yes, I miss her so much."
Donna said, "She was a sweetie."
"Yes, she was a sweetheart - my best friend."
Gratitude: I am thankful that sweetie was my mother.
Prayer: I pray that when I die I will have lived the life that even after years of passing, my doctor's nurse will still remember me and say "she was a sweetie."
Sunday, March 22, 2009
What a Wonderful Week
Both of my kids were on spring break this past week. And they both came home. I was a happy momma.
It all started last Friday night with JC coming in. I always greet them with an standing ovation out on the steps when they come in. I am just so excited, and when I see their car pull up, I can't help it - I just go out and start clapping. But I did not see his car pull up, so I missed getting to give him his standing ovation. Dad had gone to pick up supper that we had ordered and I thought it was him coming in the door. I am sorry son, I know you missed this.
Then Saturday, Kalyn and Gus pull in to - their standing ovation, Dad smiling from ear to ear and Bro shaking his head. We were greeted with barking from Gus and big hugs from our beautiful daughter, and a sigh of thankfulness from us all that she had made the 15 hour drive safely.
The only thing that could have made the week better was to have had our missing link here. BJ we missed you.
Our week was full. We went through boxes of Grandma Pierce's stuff. Lots and lots of papers and pictures and a few knick-knack's. We went shopping, we cooked together, ate together, walked, played games. We had a few tears and lots of laughs. Lots of memories and good story telling from Dad.
Here are a few of my memories from the last week:
I was out buying groceries and a friend came up to me and said, "Loveta, you looked confused." I smiled and said, "I am." It is hard to prepare three meals a day when one (me) is on Weight Watchers, one (Kalyn) watches calories and low fat, one (JC) gave up meat for Lent (yes, this little church of Christ family does Lent, the discipline is good, stay focused - don't knock it, try it). We actually did very well on all three accounts.
Going through Grandma Pierce's stuff brought back lots of memories. She was a very "colorful" lady. She was and is a very big part of our lives.
She was a great babysitter for JC and Kalyn. We found pictures they had drawn and named. We found "rules" for the little towns they would build on the dining room table. (it is amazing some of the stuff they came up with - to see the list go to JC's blog) We found a "cease fire" letter signed by Secretary of State, President and VP - aka Kalyn, JC and Grandma Bessie Pierce. It was simply written, "Please cease fire." We found a newspaper with "Dear Blabby" aka JC. We found some old school papers. JC got angry at one of his teachers because she had marked one wrong (in his opinion). Kalyn told him to get over it, that was 18 years ago and he did pass on to third grade!
We went to San Angelo shopping one day. (BJ, we knew this would have been a miserable day for you as you do not enjoy shopping - but thank you for helping us decide where to eat!) We have always enjoyed shopping together. It was a great day.
On Thursday night, Kalyn wanted to celebrate her Daddy's birthday as she would not be here for the real day. So she made a delicious supper - eggplant parmesan, fresh green beans and an orange pound cake with ice cream. She gave him gifts. It was perfect.
We love playing games. We love playing "Ticket to Ride", it is a board game - we own the German version. I came in last place every game we played but one - that one I came in third. But I love this game. We also played "Rummykub." I love that game also. And I won one of them!
Goodbyes are very hard for me. I cried Friday morning as I told Kalyn goodbye. I cried Saturday morning as I watched by son drive off. I cry now as I write this paragraph. But as hard as goodbyes are, they are way worth it when you have such beautiful times together.
Gratitude: Thank God, for this past week. For the safe trips my kids had. For all the good times we had.
Prayer: That we will get to have more good times like these in the years to come.
It all started last Friday night with JC coming in. I always greet them with an standing ovation out on the steps when they come in. I am just so excited, and when I see their car pull up, I can't help it - I just go out and start clapping. But I did not see his car pull up, so I missed getting to give him his standing ovation. Dad had gone to pick up supper that we had ordered and I thought it was him coming in the door. I am sorry son, I know you missed this.
Then Saturday, Kalyn and Gus pull in to - their standing ovation, Dad smiling from ear to ear and Bro shaking his head. We were greeted with barking from Gus and big hugs from our beautiful daughter, and a sigh of thankfulness from us all that she had made the 15 hour drive safely.
The only thing that could have made the week better was to have had our missing link here. BJ we missed you.
Our week was full. We went through boxes of Grandma Pierce's stuff. Lots and lots of papers and pictures and a few knick-knack's. We went shopping, we cooked together, ate together, walked, played games. We had a few tears and lots of laughs. Lots of memories and good story telling from Dad.
Here are a few of my memories from the last week:
I was out buying groceries and a friend came up to me and said, "Loveta, you looked confused." I smiled and said, "I am." It is hard to prepare three meals a day when one (me) is on Weight Watchers, one (Kalyn) watches calories and low fat, one (JC) gave up meat for Lent (yes, this little church of Christ family does Lent, the discipline is good, stay focused - don't knock it, try it). We actually did very well on all three accounts.
Going through Grandma Pierce's stuff brought back lots of memories. She was a very "colorful" lady. She was and is a very big part of our lives.
She was a great babysitter for JC and Kalyn. We found pictures they had drawn and named. We found "rules" for the little towns they would build on the dining room table. (it is amazing some of the stuff they came up with - to see the list go to JC's blog) We found a "cease fire" letter signed by Secretary of State, President and VP - aka Kalyn, JC and Grandma Bessie Pierce. It was simply written, "Please cease fire." We found a newspaper with "Dear Blabby" aka JC. We found some old school papers. JC got angry at one of his teachers because she had marked one wrong (in his opinion). Kalyn told him to get over it, that was 18 years ago and he did pass on to third grade!
We went to San Angelo shopping one day. (BJ, we knew this would have been a miserable day for you as you do not enjoy shopping - but thank you for helping us decide where to eat!) We have always enjoyed shopping together. It was a great day.
On Thursday night, Kalyn wanted to celebrate her Daddy's birthday as she would not be here for the real day. So she made a delicious supper - eggplant parmesan, fresh green beans and an orange pound cake with ice cream. She gave him gifts. It was perfect.
We love playing games. We love playing "Ticket to Ride", it is a board game - we own the German version. I came in last place every game we played but one - that one I came in third. But I love this game. We also played "Rummykub." I love that game also. And I won one of them!
Goodbyes are very hard for me. I cried Friday morning as I told Kalyn goodbye. I cried Saturday morning as I watched by son drive off. I cry now as I write this paragraph. But as hard as goodbyes are, they are way worth it when you have such beautiful times together.
Gratitude: Thank God, for this past week. For the safe trips my kids had. For all the good times we had.
Prayer: That we will get to have more good times like these in the years to come.
Monday, March 16, 2009
I'm Back
Yes, my kids are home for spring break and my boy got my internet to working again. YEA! I hate to admit that my children are right sometimes - I don't want to give them the big head, but I am so glad that they got me to doing this whole blogging thing. I really missed it the last few weeks. I really did not realize I had so much I wanted to say, haha. It really excited me when some of my family members started commenting and emailing asking what had happened, why had I quit blogging. I HAVE FOLLOWERS! ( It really does not take much to excite me.) Anyway, I'm back and will be making new entries regularly, as long as my internet works.
Gratitude: I am thankful for internet.
Prayer: That my internet keeps working. My boy doesn't come home often enough to fix it regularly!
Gratitude: I am thankful for internet.
Prayer: That my internet keeps working. My boy doesn't come home often enough to fix it regularly!
Sunday, February 8, 2009
25 Random Things About John
I told John that it was not fair that I had to do the list of 25 random things and he did not just because he does not do anything on a computer. So I tagged him and on our way to Walmart in Brady he gave me his list and I wrote it down. Now here is his list:
1. Favorite food - Mexican (it was not surprising to me that the list starts with food)
2. Loves hot peppers
3. Phobia about matches. Older brother Bill used to strike matches and throw them at John, so now he HATES matches. If I touch a match I have to wash my hands with soap. And if you need to light a charcoal grill, you use a match to light a piece of paper and use the paper to light the charcoals. If he sees you just use a match he can not eat the food, makes him sick.
4. Loves soulful love songs; like Dionne Warwick.
5. Hates laziness
6. It really bothers John to hear a child was spanked with a belt. Hand does the job fine.
7. Favorite color is turquoise blue (I did inform him he really does not have a favorite color; if you need an explanation read my list of random things)
8. Paralized with fear everytime he has to go to the doctor or dentist.
9. Love strawberry ice cream
10. Unlike my son, hates spiders. Ever since he was biten by one and almost lost a finger.
11. First impressions are not always right.
12. Loves playing the piano
13. Enjoys painting
14. Enjoy picking up pecans (ask any family member about their opionion on this)
15. Likes cats more than dogs.
16. Likes playing pool.
17. LOVES eating out.
18. Loves wearing colonge and uses it by the gallons.
19. I enjoy BBQing.
20. Has a fear of hurting his children's feelings.
21. Always had a fear of backing over one of the kids; to the point of getting out of a vehicle after letting them out to make sure they had not got in the way.
22. I love my Chevy PU, but am still a Dodge man.
23. I love my wife. ( no I did not tell him to do this, he said it on his own)
24. I was raised by women (mother, grandma, aunt), so therefore I am more comfortable around women than men.
25. I am good at making a person believe I know more that I do about anything.
1. Favorite food - Mexican (it was not surprising to me that the list starts with food)
2. Loves hot peppers
3. Phobia about matches. Older brother Bill used to strike matches and throw them at John, so now he HATES matches. If I touch a match I have to wash my hands with soap. And if you need to light a charcoal grill, you use a match to light a piece of paper and use the paper to light the charcoals. If he sees you just use a match he can not eat the food, makes him sick.
4. Loves soulful love songs; like Dionne Warwick.
5. Hates laziness
6. It really bothers John to hear a child was spanked with a belt. Hand does the job fine.
7. Favorite color is turquoise blue (I did inform him he really does not have a favorite color; if you need an explanation read my list of random things)
8. Paralized with fear everytime he has to go to the doctor or dentist.
9. Love strawberry ice cream
10. Unlike my son, hates spiders. Ever since he was biten by one and almost lost a finger.
11. First impressions are not always right.
12. Loves playing the piano
13. Enjoys painting
14. Enjoy picking up pecans (ask any family member about their opionion on this)
15. Likes cats more than dogs.
16. Likes playing pool.
17. LOVES eating out.
18. Loves wearing colonge and uses it by the gallons.
19. I enjoy BBQing.
20. Has a fear of hurting his children's feelings.
21. Always had a fear of backing over one of the kids; to the point of getting out of a vehicle after letting them out to make sure they had not got in the way.
22. I love my Chevy PU, but am still a Dodge man.
23. I love my wife. ( no I did not tell him to do this, he said it on his own)
24. I was raised by women (mother, grandma, aunt), so therefore I am more comfortable around women than men.
25. I am good at making a person believe I know more that I do about anything.
Saturday, January 31, 2009
25 Random Things About Me
Okay, this is the first time I have been tagged. My first thought was "Wow, this is going to be hard", but it wasn't that bad. Here goes:
1. Poetry is really not my thing. I usually don't "get it" - but I do have a favorite poem and I will be posting it on my blog someday. It is called "I Am A Christian" author unknown.
2. I have been asked before what kind of music I have on my IPod. I will also be doing a post on that someday. But for now I will tell you that I love the Bee Gees.
3. I always wanted to be a teacher....
4. ....but never thought I was smart enough - low self-esteem. (kids I am not trying to make you mad - just speaking the truth)
5. I love my cat, Abby. I do not like to see animals mistreated.
6. I secretly want a tatoo. I know what I want, but am too scared to get it. And I worry about what people would think.
7. I enjoy wearing my toe rings and ankle bracelets.
8. I do not mind people being "different". That's what makes the world go round!
9. Some days I still miss my mother so much it aches.
10. I DO NOT tolerate lazy people. It makes me mad. I believe God put us on this earth and let us live another day to do something!
11. I always read the last couple of pages in a book first. If it is not going to end happy I do not want to read it. The very reason I will not watch many movies without hearing if they have a good ending.
12. I love my purple PT Cruiser.
13. If I had enough money I would adopt a child. I think of it often.
14. I am scared of large amounts of water. Anything over a gallon!
15. I am very scared of heigths. Anything over a foot!
16. Favorite Bible verses: Anything with LOVE.
17. Favorite hymn: Anything fast.
18. I enjoy shopping, even if I do not have money to spend. I love just walking and looking.
19. Games I enjoy the most are Rummykub, Phase 10 and Ticket to Ride.
20. I get tired of dieting and weighing and dieting and weighing and dieting and weighing. Done it since 5th grade.
21. I like mayo on a homemade, grilled burger - but give me mustard on a bought burger, thank you.
22. I do not like for people to ask me my favorite color. I do not believe you can really pick one favorite color.
23. I do not like to be the one asked where to eat in a group. I do not care, I will find something to eat - you pick.
24. I hate skunks. I really do not know why God thought they needed to be here.
25. I can make very good homemade ice cream.
26. I am still waiting for my son-in-law to comment on my last post.
Gratitude: I am so thankful Kalyn and BJ are safe.
Prayer: This had nothing what so ever to do with this post, but I am asking all who read this blog to please pray for Kalyn and BJ and their safety and all Kentuckians during these winter storms. I love you kids. Dad and I are praying.
1. Poetry is really not my thing. I usually don't "get it" - but I do have a favorite poem and I will be posting it on my blog someday. It is called "I Am A Christian" author unknown.
2. I have been asked before what kind of music I have on my IPod. I will also be doing a post on that someday. But for now I will tell you that I love the Bee Gees.
3. I always wanted to be a teacher....
4. ....but never thought I was smart enough - low self-esteem. (kids I am not trying to make you mad - just speaking the truth)
5. I love my cat, Abby. I do not like to see animals mistreated.
6. I secretly want a tatoo. I know what I want, but am too scared to get it. And I worry about what people would think.
7. I enjoy wearing my toe rings and ankle bracelets.
8. I do not mind people being "different". That's what makes the world go round!
9. Some days I still miss my mother so much it aches.
10. I DO NOT tolerate lazy people. It makes me mad. I believe God put us on this earth and let us live another day to do something!
11. I always read the last couple of pages in a book first. If it is not going to end happy I do not want to read it. The very reason I will not watch many movies without hearing if they have a good ending.
12. I love my purple PT Cruiser.
13. If I had enough money I would adopt a child. I think of it often.
14. I am scared of large amounts of water. Anything over a gallon!
15. I am very scared of heigths. Anything over a foot!
16. Favorite Bible verses: Anything with LOVE.
17. Favorite hymn: Anything fast.
18. I enjoy shopping, even if I do not have money to spend. I love just walking and looking.
19. Games I enjoy the most are Rummykub, Phase 10 and Ticket to Ride.
20. I get tired of dieting and weighing and dieting and weighing and dieting and weighing. Done it since 5th grade.
21. I like mayo on a homemade, grilled burger - but give me mustard on a bought burger, thank you.
22. I do not like for people to ask me my favorite color. I do not believe you can really pick one favorite color.
23. I do not like to be the one asked where to eat in a group. I do not care, I will find something to eat - you pick.
24. I hate skunks. I really do not know why God thought they needed to be here.
25. I can make very good homemade ice cream.
26. I am still waiting for my son-in-law to comment on my last post.
Gratitude: I am so thankful Kalyn and BJ are safe.
Prayer: This had nothing what so ever to do with this post, but I am asking all who read this blog to please pray for Kalyn and BJ and their safety and all Kentuckians during these winter storms. I love you kids. Dad and I are praying.
Monday, January 26, 2009
BJ, Let's Play a Game!
A couple of post back I said that I would be writing on the three men in my daily life in the next three posts. So I wrote one on my dear son and then one on my dear husband. Next in line - my dear son-in-law. Just like the first two entries in this "series" I can say again "I love this guy". God blessed us with a wonderful son-in-law. He "fits".
This little memory I am going to write about is probably not exactly what he would like for me to put down in writing, but it cracks me up. It was so funny and of course I need to write it down so I will never forget it. I need one of these stories floating around in my mind so if I need something to throw out at him from time to time it will be there!
B.J. is a big game player. He loves playing games and our family has always played games. It is good fun family time. One of the first few times he came to our home with Kalyn we sat down to play. We were playing card games and things were going well, UNTIL he had a bad hand. He threw his cards down, in anger, on the table and I was shocked and my eyes bugged out and I started shaking (okay I didn't start shaking, but I want this to sound really good!). All of a sudden he got a funny little grin on his face and looked at what he was thinking might be his future in-laws?! He said something like this, "Oh no, what did I just do. I sometimes take games serious." John and I cracked up. Kalyn started grinning and then burst out laughing. B.J. went on to explain that his family really does take game playing really serious. We are very competitive also - we understood. We still let him in the family! And we are glad he is around.
I wish he was here right now, we would play a game.
Gratitude: B.J. - I am truly thankful for my daughter's spouse.
Prayer: I pray that we will get to play many more games together and make many more happy memories. (and an equally good daughter-in-law someday).
This little memory I am going to write about is probably not exactly what he would like for me to put down in writing, but it cracks me up. It was so funny and of course I need to write it down so I will never forget it. I need one of these stories floating around in my mind so if I need something to throw out at him from time to time it will be there!
B.J. is a big game player. He loves playing games and our family has always played games. It is good fun family time. One of the first few times he came to our home with Kalyn we sat down to play. We were playing card games and things were going well, UNTIL he had a bad hand. He threw his cards down, in anger, on the table and I was shocked and my eyes bugged out and I started shaking (okay I didn't start shaking, but I want this to sound really good!). All of a sudden he got a funny little grin on his face and looked at what he was thinking might be his future in-laws?! He said something like this, "Oh no, what did I just do. I sometimes take games serious." John and I cracked up. Kalyn started grinning and then burst out laughing. B.J. went on to explain that his family really does take game playing really serious. We are very competitive also - we understood. We still let him in the family! And we are glad he is around.
I wish he was here right now, we would play a game.
Gratitude: B.J. - I am truly thankful for my daughter's spouse.
Prayer: I pray that we will get to play many more games together and make many more happy memories. (and an equally good daughter-in-law someday).
Saturday, January 17, 2009
Little Debbie's Don't Count
I do not know if I can tell this story as good as it really happened. It may be one of those moments when you "needed to be there". But anyway I am going to try. Here goes.
My boss and I started Weight Watchers a couple of weeks ago together. She wanted to start and I was planning on restarting after the new year, so we are going on this journey together. Both of our husbands were excited about this because they both need to shed a few pounds also. In WW you count points. So on the morning after we had signed up I started writing everything down that I put in my mouth. I started a separate list for John. He gets a few more "points" than I do because he is a man and is more active on his job.
We had breakfast and then off to work we went. At lunch, I wrote down the coffee with creamer that I had had and my 16 more ozs. of water I had drank and then I looked over at John and asked, "Honey, what have you had since we left for work this morning?" He turned and looked me straight in the eye with a glare and said, "We are NOT counting my Little Debbie that I have every morning." I doubled over laughing and asked, "Why not?, You had a Little Debbie?" John - "I lost weight last time having my Little Debbie and I will not count it!"
He meant business.
I do not count his Little Debbie's.
Besides, it's one of the lower calorie ones he did inform me.
Gratitude: I am thankful for a husband who will eat what I put in front of him, even diet food, without ever complaining. He does support me. And I am thankful for the pleasure Little Debbie's bring my dear husband.
Prayer: Please help with my will power and help me to reach goal this year.
My boss and I started Weight Watchers a couple of weeks ago together. She wanted to start and I was planning on restarting after the new year, so we are going on this journey together. Both of our husbands were excited about this because they both need to shed a few pounds also. In WW you count points. So on the morning after we had signed up I started writing everything down that I put in my mouth. I started a separate list for John. He gets a few more "points" than I do because he is a man and is more active on his job.
We had breakfast and then off to work we went. At lunch, I wrote down the coffee with creamer that I had had and my 16 more ozs. of water I had drank and then I looked over at John and asked, "Honey, what have you had since we left for work this morning?" He turned and looked me straight in the eye with a glare and said, "We are NOT counting my Little Debbie that I have every morning." I doubled over laughing and asked, "Why not?, You had a Little Debbie?" John - "I lost weight last time having my Little Debbie and I will not count it!"
He meant business.
I do not count his Little Debbie's.
Besides, it's one of the lower calorie ones he did inform me.
Gratitude: I am thankful for a husband who will eat what I put in front of him, even diet food, without ever complaining. He does support me. And I am thankful for the pleasure Little Debbie's bring my dear husband.
Prayer: Please help with my will power and help me to reach goal this year.
Saturday, January 10, 2009
An English Major for a Son
Men. I have lots of men in my life - husband, son, son-in-law, brothers, bro-in-laws, uncles, nephews, friends. I love them all. The next three posts I do are going to be dedicated to the three men in my daily life, my son, husband and son-in-law.
We will start with my son. My first born. God could not have been kinder to me. I love this kid. He has brought me lots of happiness. And very little pain.
As he has gotten older, he has become very much more opinionated and is very verbal with his opinions - unlike his mother. I agree with most of these opinions, but not all. And that is okay, that is what makes the world go round.
I think he is funny in some ways. I really had a hard time agreeing to this blogging stuff. I really did not think I had that much to say and I am not that good of a writer. When you have an English major son who will be reading your blog, it makes a person sorta nervous about writing. You know you will be graded on everything you write. I write like I talk. I use lots of dashes and commas where I probably shouldn't. And my spelling is pretty good, but again I tend to spell like I talk also. And I talk Texan.
The English major in him can over look a lot his mother does, but there is a time and a point when he just feels the need to straighten his ole mom out. This happened this last week. I got a email and noticed right away it was from J.C., I always get excited getting a good email from family members. So I am excited, I open my mail and it says, " Mom, just thought I might mention that you are spelling a word wrong in your lastest blogs." Yep, he could not stand it, the English Major in him had to come out, grade his Mother, let her know. Straighten her out.
At least he did it in an email for only me to see and not a comment on my blog for all to see. And yes, I have corrected my errors, like a good student.
Gratitude: I am thankful for my son.
Prayer: That he will always be kind in pointing out my errors.
We will start with my son. My first born. God could not have been kinder to me. I love this kid. He has brought me lots of happiness. And very little pain.
As he has gotten older, he has become very much more opinionated and is very verbal with his opinions - unlike his mother. I agree with most of these opinions, but not all. And that is okay, that is what makes the world go round.
I think he is funny in some ways. I really had a hard time agreeing to this blogging stuff. I really did not think I had that much to say and I am not that good of a writer. When you have an English major son who will be reading your blog, it makes a person sorta nervous about writing. You know you will be graded on everything you write. I write like I talk. I use lots of dashes and commas where I probably shouldn't. And my spelling is pretty good, but again I tend to spell like I talk also. And I talk Texan.
The English major in him can over look a lot his mother does, but there is a time and a point when he just feels the need to straighten his ole mom out. This happened this last week. I got a email and noticed right away it was from J.C., I always get excited getting a good email from family members. So I am excited, I open my mail and it says, " Mom, just thought I might mention that you are spelling a word wrong in your lastest blogs." Yep, he could not stand it, the English Major in him had to come out, grade his Mother, let her know. Straighten her out.
At least he did it in an email for only me to see and not a comment on my blog for all to see. And yes, I have corrected my errors, like a good student.
Gratitude: I am thankful for my son.
Prayer: That he will always be kind in pointing out my errors.
Sunday, January 4, 2009
Signed, Sealed and Delivered
Anyone who has talked to me in the last 6 - 7 months knows my life has been dedicated to making a quilt. That is, anyone but Kalyn and BJ.
The first part of last year we were visiting Kalyn and BJ in Frisco and Kalyn made the comment that when she had company she did not have enough blankets for everyone to stay warm. So the idea was born - I wanted to make Kalyn and BJ a quilt for Christmas.
A couple of months later she was in Menard and we were looking through fabrics I had gotten from Mothers things. There was one piece she really liked and she commented on it. I kept that piece of information in my mind.
Then in June John, JC and I went to San Angelo to pick fabrics. I took that piece with me and we built off of it. She had always loved the Bear Paw pattern, so that is what I had decided I wanted to do.
I wanted it big enough to serve as a bedspread if she so desired. So I started cutting out a few more than 2000 pieces. Then sewed and quilted (by hand). Put a cute little label on it (signed), wrapped it (sealed) and gave it to them for Christmas (delivered).
There are some cute stories that went on during this 6 months. We asked Kalyn if she noticed that for 6 months her daddy always answered the phone. I was always upstairs working on this project. She said she actually did think about that once, but she figured dad had just decided that was his nightly job! One night John and I were going to start the basting. We layed the lining out on the living room floor, then the batting, and then the top. The phone rang- it was Kalyn. "Mom, tonight is a good night for me to look through the cookbook with you". (we had gotten the same book and had been planning on looking at it together) Not wanting to give anything away I said " Gooooood, let me get mine." She went through the book slowly and talked about every recipe, 1 1/2 hours later I got back to the quilt! It took us two nights to baste it. Not knowing there was a wrinkle right down the middle of the lining, because when we stretched the cotton it had given back and brought the lining with it and made one large wrinkle right down the middle! We had to take all that basting out and put in on a large frame in Kalyn's room upstairs.
Come November 1, Kalyn calls and says "Mom, I think we are coming home for Thanksgiving". I am starring at a calendar, counting the number of days I have until they show up to finish this quilt. A couple of weeks later she calls and says "Mom, guess what, we are coming the weekend BEFORE Thanksgiving" I am trying to act excited about this news as I am standing before my calendar, counting the days I now have!
They did not get to come for Thanksgiving. I did not get the quilt finished either. Since she did not get to come, there was one day that she was doing something that she needed to ask her brother several questions. She would call and he would have to dive under the quilt frame to get to the phone. She called several times, he could not tell her how big a pain this was for him. We all laughed.
Now, I figure I have until Christmas. No, Odell calls, " We are coming to spend the night on December 5." I am excited and the quilt is almost finished by this time. My fingers start flying across this quilt. And I do get it quilted by December 3.
I was soooooo excited to give this gift and when it finally happened, Kalyn had tears and so did I. It was fun, special and worth all the dollars, time and love that went into it.
Gratitude: I am so thankful I have a daughter who knows the work that goes in to making a quilt. And thankful I had a mother who loved quilting and taught me so much.
Prayer: I pray that Kalyn and BJ have lots of sweet dreams under this quilt, that it keeps them warm. And that they enjoy it for many years and always remember, every stitch was shown with love for them.
The first part of last year we were visiting Kalyn and BJ in Frisco and Kalyn made the comment that when she had company she did not have enough blankets for everyone to stay warm. So the idea was born - I wanted to make Kalyn and BJ a quilt for Christmas.
A couple of months later she was in Menard and we were looking through fabrics I had gotten from Mothers things. There was one piece she really liked and she commented on it. I kept that piece of information in my mind.
Then in June John, JC and I went to San Angelo to pick fabrics. I took that piece with me and we built off of it. She had always loved the Bear Paw pattern, so that is what I had decided I wanted to do.
I wanted it big enough to serve as a bedspread if she so desired. So I started cutting out a few more than 2000 pieces. Then sewed and quilted (by hand). Put a cute little label on it (signed), wrapped it (sealed) and gave it to them for Christmas (delivered).
There are some cute stories that went on during this 6 months. We asked Kalyn if she noticed that for 6 months her daddy always answered the phone. I was always upstairs working on this project. She said she actually did think about that once, but she figured dad had just decided that was his nightly job! One night John and I were going to start the basting. We layed the lining out on the living room floor, then the batting, and then the top. The phone rang- it was Kalyn. "Mom, tonight is a good night for me to look through the cookbook with you". (we had gotten the same book and had been planning on looking at it together) Not wanting to give anything away I said " Gooooood, let me get mine." She went through the book slowly and talked about every recipe, 1 1/2 hours later I got back to the quilt! It took us two nights to baste it. Not knowing there was a wrinkle right down the middle of the lining, because when we stretched the cotton it had given back and brought the lining with it and made one large wrinkle right down the middle! We had to take all that basting out and put in on a large frame in Kalyn's room upstairs.
Come November 1, Kalyn calls and says "Mom, I think we are coming home for Thanksgiving". I am starring at a calendar, counting the number of days I have until they show up to finish this quilt. A couple of weeks later she calls and says "Mom, guess what, we are coming the weekend BEFORE Thanksgiving" I am trying to act excited about this news as I am standing before my calendar, counting the days I now have!
They did not get to come for Thanksgiving. I did not get the quilt finished either. Since she did not get to come, there was one day that she was doing something that she needed to ask her brother several questions. She would call and he would have to dive under the quilt frame to get to the phone. She called several times, he could not tell her how big a pain this was for him. We all laughed.
Now, I figure I have until Christmas. No, Odell calls, " We are coming to spend the night on December 5." I am excited and the quilt is almost finished by this time. My fingers start flying across this quilt. And I do get it quilted by December 3.
I was soooooo excited to give this gift and when it finally happened, Kalyn had tears and so did I. It was fun, special and worth all the dollars, time and love that went into it.
Gratitude: I am so thankful I have a daughter who knows the work that goes in to making a quilt. And thankful I had a mother who loved quilting and taught me so much.
Prayer: I pray that Kalyn and BJ have lots of sweet dreams under this quilt, that it keeps them warm. And that they enjoy it for many years and always remember, every stitch was shown with love for them.
Saturday, January 3, 2009
Holiday Season, over
The holiday season is over - and it was a wonderful one! Ours lasted a little longer than usual this year, and we had some "first" this year. J.C. came in on Sunday before Christmas, so we got to enjoy him for several days. When Christmas Eve finally got here it was just me, John and J.C.,
this was a first. I am used to having more family here. But we had a great time. We opened gifts - one at a time (another first). And we took pictures and talked about the gifts, it was fun. Then on Christmas Day, once again just the three of us, we did not do the traditional dinner. We had roast the way Grandpa Pierce made it and mashed potatoes and veggies and pie. John did the cooking, because I came down with a 24 hour tummy bug! Then we played games, which is always fun - win or lose.
Kalyn and BJ came in on Tuesday afternoon after Christmas. We got to open gifts with them, we did the one at a time opening again - and that was fun. On New Year's Eve we made a lot of snacks and ate all night and played games and laughed the New Year in. New Years Day brought in more company and a big meal, lots of visiting, more gift opening, picture taking, game playing. It was a great day.
Of course all this fun holiday season had to come to an end sometime and anyone who knows me knows I am not good at goodbyes. It is hard. I love having those three kids and two dogs in my house. But the holiday season is over and I have so much to be thankful for - one being, having just had such a wonderful two weeks.
Gratitude: I am thankful for this past holiday season and all the wonderful memories made.
Prayer: I pray for my family and myself to live 2009 very pleasing in God's sight.
this was a first. I am used to having more family here. But we had a great time. We opened gifts - one at a time (another first). And we took pictures and talked about the gifts, it was fun. Then on Christmas Day, once again just the three of us, we did not do the traditional dinner. We had roast the way Grandpa Pierce made it and mashed potatoes and veggies and pie. John did the cooking, because I came down with a 24 hour tummy bug! Then we played games, which is always fun - win or lose.
Kalyn and BJ came in on Tuesday afternoon after Christmas. We got to open gifts with them, we did the one at a time opening again - and that was fun. On New Year's Eve we made a lot of snacks and ate all night and played games and laughed the New Year in. New Years Day brought in more company and a big meal, lots of visiting, more gift opening, picture taking, game playing. It was a great day.
Of course all this fun holiday season had to come to an end sometime and anyone who knows me knows I am not good at goodbyes. It is hard. I love having those three kids and two dogs in my house. But the holiday season is over and I have so much to be thankful for - one being, having just had such a wonderful two weeks.
Gratitude: I am thankful for this past holiday season and all the wonderful memories made.
Prayer: I pray for my family and myself to live 2009 very pleasing in God's sight.
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