Year end.

Last day of 2012. I know that some of you keep up with me by visiting this space. I want to let you know that my Dad is getting very near death. No way to know whether it is hours or days but it will not be very much longer.
He was able to say "I love you" to my mother one more time this morning. A very sweet local priest visited and Dad was able to recite some of the Lord's prayer with him. At least four of my siblings are keeping watch with Mom. I pray for rest and peace.

Brrrr.

The weather channel says 10% chance of precipitation. It is sleeting right now. So much for forecasts.

The holidays have melded back into a regular feel. Decorations haven't come down, yet. I am not ready. Yesterday I got to go over and spend the day with Daughter and the Super Carrot. Daughter is still settling into her new abode. It is coming along. I have to say the house is WAY better with the new paint job. There are great spaces in the new place.

Mr. Macho has spent much of his time off painting the new shop. He is almost ready to move stuff into it. I have projects lined up for when he is up and operating.

Made it to the gym this morning. Much needed exercise. I also got the wood floors mopped with Murphy's Oil soap. That makes me feel better. I might even windex and few doors today that are still sporting hand and mouth prints from last weekend. Sometimes it is just to precious to wipe away.

 I talked to Mom and Dad briefly this morning. It has been a not good week for Dad, and today was not good either. The substitute Hopsice nurse thinks he has contracted a cold and wants him to take breathing treatments. He isn't getting out of bed. Even to use the bathroom. His appetite is non-existent. Mom had to send a sick care giver home today and sisters, Marsha and Mimi, had to cover until another sitter could get there. Mom was concerned with wiping all surfaces with clorox wipes.

White beans are on the menu for tonight. Sweet Pea and her parents are coming over to share the meal. I have a confession to make. I have thrown away more sweets today. We just won't eat them. There are still plenty of sweet things to eat in the house. Sweet Daughter-in-law from out of town made red velvet cream cheese brownies and brought them up last weekend. They are dangerous. If you happen upon a batch turn quickly and run. Or else you will want to eat them all yourownself. They are perfect. Not too sweet. Oh man. So, yes. They are still here. The chocolate peanut butter balls? Still here. Mr. Macho ate the last piece of caramel cake after lunch today. Our friend, Kathryn, makes the best caramel cake.

This week Mr. Macho's nephew proposed to his girlfriend and she accepted. We have a wedding to look forward to in the new year. A special niece is expecting her first child in the middle of the new year. Another reason to look forward. Only a few more days left of this old year. Nostalgia will be played and replayed on the teevee. "Old Lang Syne" and all that. We will kiss goodbye to this year among friends on Monday evening. 2013 is ripe with promise. Here's hoping!

The eve.

Backwards turn backwards Oh time in your flight.

Make me a child again Just for tonight.

-Elizabeth Akers Allen

Merry Christmas to all and to all a

Good night!

Silent night.

The weekend was terrific. Friday Mr. Macho and I worked around the house. Tweaking to get things ready for the family gathering slated for Saturday.

Friday evening brought the members trickling in. Welcome. Welcome. Cue the Whoville song. Fah Who Foraze... 

We gathered on Saturday. We ate. We laughed. We ate. We took family photos. We exchanged gifts. We ate some more. The day was sweet. Complimented by an entire day of sunshine. A gift. 

It is quiet now. All is calm. All is bright. Well. Not so bright. Nasty weather is on the way and may postpone further family gatherings. It will not deter the Christmas spirit that is settling in my heart. Peace on earth. Good will toward men. 

Step softly.

I write with a heart that is still damaged. Daughter posted a link on facebook that provides a way to move forward with healing.   http://thisishappilyeverafter.blogspot.com/2012/12/moving-on.html
I have chosen a victim to include in my daily prayers. It helps. It is what I can do from this distance. Her name and birth date are taped to my computer.
And I step softly back into my life. Keeping the wound bound with prayer.

***
My house is as decorated as it will get this year. Our children, grandchildren, and Mr. Macho's side of the family will gather at our house this weekend. To celebrate Christmas. There will be fun, food, photos. There will be full bellies and full hearts. Gifts will be given. Love will be received. Familiar family lore will be retold, I'm sure.

***
Dancing update. Mr. Macho and I continue with our social dancing class. We are very slowly improving. This month has been a much needed review of the fox trot and the nightclub two step. Last night really felt like progress was being made. Our fox trot finally felt smooth. I liked it.

We are planning to join some of our dance friends at a New Year's Eve party. For dancing. I need a sparkly top. To go with black pants. I'll let you know what I find. Peace.

A quiet post.

Read this silently or in a whisper.
I heard the news. I did not know how horrible it was until I was in the middle of a store and got a text from Son in Town. Quickly Googled and saw the numbers of the tragedy. I had to get out of the store. Quick.
Then I moaned. All the way home. Out loud.
Talked to Daughter. We cried. She raged. I moaned. Some more.
Oh Dear Jesus. How do we deal with this?
Oh parents of children no longer living. Dads stayed at the fire station. Exhausted Moms went home.
We can not possibly know the depth of your grief. Please let us hold you up in our prayers. Know that we do. There is a new deep wound in my heart. I still yearn to moan.
God please come and fill our hearts with your healing balm. Help us figure out how to forgive in this meanest of hours.

***
Below is a copy of Max Lucado's Christmas prayer.

Dear Jesus,

It's a good thing you were born at night. This world sure seems dark. I have a good eye for silver linings. But they seem dimmer lately.

These killings, Lord. These children, Lord. Innocence violated. Raw evil demonstrated.

The whole world seems on edge. Trigger-happy. Ticked off. We hear threats of chemical weapons and nuclear bombs. Are we one button-push away from annihilation?

Your world seems a bit darker this Christmas. But you were born in the dark, right? You came at night. The shepherds were nightshift workers. The Wise Men followed a star. Your first cries were heard in the shadows. To see your face, Mary and Joseph needed a candle flame. It was dark. Dark with Herod's jealousy. Dark with Roman oppression. Dark with poverty. Dark with violence.

Herod went on a rampage, killing babies. Joseph took you and your mom into Egypt. You were an immigrant before you were a Nazarene.

Oh, Lord Jesus, you entered the dark world of your day. Won't you enter ours? We are weary of bloodshed. We, like the wise men, are looking for a star. We, like the shepherds, are kneeling at a manger.

This Christmas, we ask you, heal us, help us, be born anew in us.

Hopefully,
Your Children

12-12-12

Just had to post today because of the date!! Won't happen again for like a hundred years. Or something like that.
Anyhoo...Mr. Macho and I attended a performance of the Messiah last night. It was awesome. The solo singers were professional, as were the musicians. The chorus choir was comprised of locals. I feel sure there were over a hundred in the chorus. They raised the roof. The Hallelujah chorus was phenomenal. Our church was full to capacity at the 6:00 performance. It was very festive feeling and I am beginning to feel a lot like Christmas. Every where I go.
After our "culture" experience Mr. Macho treated me to dinner at Umi's. Mmmm. The Shaggy Dog Roll was delish. Mr. Macho was comfortable with a hibachi dinner. He loves the fried rice. I love the flavors of the soy sauce combined with the wasabi and ginger. Yum.
My last three hat orders were delivered yesterday. There are some leftover and I actually wrapped two to give as gifts. I closed in on completing my gift shopping yesterday. A few more items to flesh out my list and I will be sitting pretty. I haven't had to buy gift wrap nor bows this year. Because of left overs from last year.
I am hoping for some sunshine today so I can make some pralines. There are also some floors to clean and dust to chase away. I will be busy.

Santa Claus is coming to town. And. I know him.

Busy fingers...

Now that I am comfortably past the birthday non-event I can breath and type again. That is all I'm saying about that.

This week I have spent trying to put my little old decorations in the the old and new spaces in the house. I am making myself not go out and buy and spend just because. I hope to hit some after Christmas sales and look forward to next year being even prettier than this year. One thing I am considering is another tree. The one I have is only a few years old but already has lights out and a broken branch. It is one of those pre-lit things. Next year it might be fun to try a smaller real tree. I have an entire year to think about it and come up with a plan. For now I will be satisfied with what I've got. With small additions.

I sold some of my crochet hats. For cheap. And have orders for three more. This weekend I will make four or five hats so my customers will have choices. Mr. Macho will be working tomorrow, more than likely and my fingers will be working the yarn.

Uncle Jay is getting the shop finished. He promised it will be done before Christmas. Looks like that is going to happen. Don't know if Mr. Macho will have time to move into it before Christmas. He is working extra trying to make time so he can take off some of the time off that he has left. I am afeared he will just loose some of his vacay.

I am having a bit of a wine emergency. As in - there is none in the house. Must make it to the store soon. We settled for dirty martinis last night. Ah well, we do what we have to do.

Got to run get the crocheting under way.

Why am I sitting here?

I have loads and loads of to-do's today. Started early with roofers fixing a leak. Uncle Jay and his trusty sidekick have already been by and cleaned up the work shop detritus. Sheets off two beds and in the washer. Work out finished. Thank you notes written.
More cleaning and organizing on the agenda today.
Tonight I will commemorate my last first date. With the rest of Mimi's seafood gumbo that she sent up for Mr. Macho. I can not waste it. Not one drop. It is soooo good.
Yesterday the Christmas spirit tip toed a little further into our house.
More clothes to wash, floors to scrub, dust to chase, decorating to do.
Got to go pay the bills.

I'm back.

Drove down to visit Mom and Dad last Thursday. It is a different kind of visit now. I felt like I could spend a just few hours at a time being with Dad. He is in bed all the time. He eats in bed. He gets bathed in the bed. He still gets up for bathroom duties which are taken care of right next to his bed. He sleeps most of the time. He is fading. Slowly.
This trip was for me, really. I wanted to be with Dad one more time while he is still my Dad. We talked little. I made him laugh a few times. I held his hand.
Mom is tired. But okay.

I actually stayed with Mimi. I enjoyed spending time with her. We ate out a couple of times but my favorite was eating her gumbo and the fabulous meal she prepared for me and Pete, Kaye, and Marsha. Saturday night we ate steaks, twice baked potato casserole, fresh green beans, a yummy salad with some home made delicious dressing, and Kaye's brownies with whipped cream. Yes, this was not on my diet. But what the heck?

Mimi and I enjoyed a little shopping on Saturday after we visited with Mom and Dad for a few hours. Pass Christian and Bay St. Louis have some fun little shops and restaurants. Good Karma going on in both places.

We are into December. Already. Just a little historical footnote. On this day 36 years ago a certain bearded young Mr. Macho asked me on a date. It was fate, that's what is was Edward. (Pretty Woman reference.) Our first date was December 4, 1976. I was a mere child. Wednesday I will celebrate the 36th anniversary of my 20th birthday. Geez.

My random acts of kindness is already being challenged. I have felt more like Scrooge than Mother Theresa the last few days. Today I will endeavor to get my groove back. Seeya.

Just Wednesday.

I just heard my dryer beep. So. This will be short. I am trying to finish this month and jump start my Christmas spirit all in the same breath. I was inspired by a person on Pinterest talking about RAOK. (Random acts of kindness.) And I am taking up that challenge. Only I won't tell you everything. And it might not happen every day. But I hope it does. 'Cause it makes me feel real good.
Today it was something that I didn't even think of but it ended up making me happy. I was in the fruit section of the grocery store. Checking out the gala and fuji apples. A man in a wheel chair asked my opinion about which apples were the best. He liked his chilly and crisp. Both varieties looked inviting. I told him to get one of the two and be sure and tell the lady at the checkout that another store was selling them for .88 cents a pound. Have her price match them, I suggested. I said wait and I will get two bags so we can both pick our apples. He asked if I would pick out his apples. To which I happily complied. He chatted just a moment and then we went in different directions. It was so small that it might not even count. But it felt really good to just be nice.
I have done one or two other things this week that I will not tell. But if you are reading this I suggest finding a random act of kindness or two and enjoy the glow. Sometimes it is a simple as a smile or a touch.

I am going to finish out my gratitude challenge right here because I will be out of pocket for the next few days. So here are my last three -
1. Today I am thankful for serendipitous moments.
2. Tomorrow I will be thankful for clear weather and good travel.
3. Friday I will be thankful for my sister's seafood gumbo.

And there you have it. A month of giving thanks. Whew. I am thankful to be finished.

****
Going to visit Mom and Dad for a few days. He isn't doing so well. My heart is telling me to go be with him one more time.

Home.

Today I got to just sit back and be with Daughter and her sick baby. Her house is in the painting process and so they fled the fumes to my house. Here I was able to offer hot shower, the use of the washer and dryer, lunch, and hot tea in the afternoon. I was happy to provide an escape.

Poor Merritt is so under the weather. Not only does she have ear infections and a respiratory virus...she is also cutting teeth.

I sent them home with clean clothes, homemade turkey vegetable soup, and corn bread muffins.

I am thankful for time spent with my daughter.

Stirring the pot.

The smell of my turkey vegetable soup is permeating the house. So many leftovers dumped right into the pot. Even the green bean casserole got dumped. Whew. The fridge is looking less crowded.
Thanksgiving decorations have been placed on the shelf. Christmas is creeping into the house. Quietly. Ever so quietly.
Clean clothes are coming out the dryer.
Paperwork got filed.
Checking account is reconciled.

Daughter and Super Carrot are coming over tomorrow for a pajama party. The Carrot is having more infected ears and respiratory virus crud. She needs a spa day at Nanny's. Done. We will just veg out right here and let little one sleep off the bad gris gris.

There are so very many everyday things that I am thankful for. But to be perfectly honest I am getting tired of trying to think of them to write about. My aim was to create a heart of gratitude and it has been trying, to say the least. I have had some pretty mellow moments this month of just breathing in the air and appreciating that moment. Friday morning. Back porch. Cup of hot coffee. Leaves lifting high on chilly currents bringing weather for coats. House filled with family. Voices of children in the house. Laughing while playing games. Watching my children love their sibling's child. What a treasure. Giving thanks for all that. And more.

Mixed bag.

The house quieted yesterday. Out of Town Son was the last to leave. Mr. Macho and I settled in for a long evening of football.
Today after church we went in different directions together. He went to work - I drove over to Daughter's house to see if I could be of any help with cleaning the new abode. She got a few things done and I helped watch Merritt. I did one or two things. Not much. But every little thing brings a feeling of getting closer to claiming this space as their own. Painters are due in tomorrow. When the painters finish the REAL unpacking will commence. That is when things will find their niches. After Christmas it will really begin to feel like their home.
 Already they have visited with friendly neighbors and the children have found new friends and old friends that live close.
I am so thankful that they have moved into a good neighborhood.

The grind.

Seems a bit of 'back to the old grindstone' today. Daughter and children awoke, ate breakfast, and headed home. Out of Town Son and wife are having lunch with friends. Mr. Macho is vacuuming the yard. I have a small hill of clothes that I am washing.
I think I will make some turkey taco soup today. Have plenty of leftover turkey. And ham. And cornbread dressing.
Still basking in the glow of having the family gathered and being thankful that all are healthy.
My Weight Watcher's diet got derailed over the past two days. My stomach is telling me that it is hungry, but I am back on the wagon. Counting the points.

Thankful for routines. And a good washer and dryer.

Good days.

The feast was well received. Mr. Macho helped clean the house. Rhonda, Tom, Edith and Grandaddy Bob came to enjoy the day with us. The food was good and plentiful. The day was gorgeous. The company was excellent. I thoroughly enjoyed myself and was more relaxed than I thought I could be.
Am so thankful all went off without a hitch. Not like last year (or maybe it was the year before?) when the oven caught on fire!
Thankful that all our children and grandchildren were here with us today to consume the leftovers!! We missed Son-in-law and were sorry he couldn't join us. Duty was calling him.
Another gorgeous day. Cousins got to play outside. We tried call for the cat across the street but the screaming scared her from venturing over. She couldn't help it. Merritt was so excited to see a real cat she just screamed for her.
Am filled with a special thankfulness for terrific offspring.

Thanksgiving eve.

Cheesy broccoli rice casserole. Check. Fig-pecan pie. Check. Sweet potato casserole. Check. Clean floors throughout the house. Check. Clean bathrooms. Check.
More to do in the morning. Am so thankful that I had Mr. Macho's help this afternoon.
I am thankful to have gotten these things done before midnight.
Still have to put a fruit salad and green bean casserole together and cook the turkey. Dressing is thawing and will be cooked tomorrow, too.
I am thankful for all our bounty. Thank you, Lord.

Connection.

Mimi. She connects me to Mom and Dad on the bad days.
Most good days Dad is at his computer and we Skype.
Last week I was out of the house for a few days. When I got home I would check my computer and see that Dad had tried to reach me 3 or 4 times.
Skype is his greatest pleasure these days. It connects him to his children.
I have known this time was imminent since about February.
Dad is getting weaker. The bad episodes are coming closer together.
Mimi feeds me information that keeps me in touch with what is happening.
I need this.
Can't say why.
Just do.
Thankful for Mimi. Today. And always.

A good day.

Lauren and Tucker have been with us since Saturday night. Yesterday, while Mr. Macho and the crew brought aid to the weary Daughter, we went to the movies to see "Wreck it Ralph". It was a cute story. We followed that up with an hour of free play at the real neat playground by the hospital. It has a nice cushioned surface under all the equipment. Cool equipment that included a set of three bongo drums.

Today we made a trip to the store-that-has-everything and picked up some fun things for their new house. Dirty clothes baskets for each of their rooms. Sparkling peach/grape juice to toast the first night in the new house. We also brought some surprises for their mom. (New dish towels and dish cloths for the new kitchen. Spray bottle of Lysol and some Mr. Clean magic sponges to keep the clean smell going. AND. The best of all. A huge-ass package of toilet paper. Because she is now the proud owner of 4 bathrooms. Yes. Four.) She will find the items interspersed with the clean folded clothes in the hamper when she starts to unpack them. Won't she be surprised!?

We dined at Chez McDonald's after our shopping excursion. Then I had to hurry home because I kept forgetting to take my turkey out the freezer. Meant to do that yesterday. Got it done.
An hour and a half at the 'business park'. (Because Uncle Son in Town made a comment years ago - something about "none of your business". Thus the children dubbed the park "the business park".)
When we came home Son in Town and Sweat Pea came over and played. Cousins. They had fun. And I have to say that Lauren is so, so good with little children. I hope that she continues her sweet nature in care taking. Tucker? Well he is still a bit of a bull in a china shop with the little ones.

A good supper of fish sticks, peas, salad, peaches and chocolate chip cookies and the kiddos are happily ensconced in front of the TV. Ahh. Baths are about to commence. Bed time can't be far off.

I am thankful I can say that it has been a good day. There have been melt downs. I am thankful they didn't last.

Pinch hitters.

Today I am thankful for Mr. Macho and our sons who are going to bat for Daughter. She is on the emotional roller coaster of moving and in the 9th inning needed some relief. Enter the dad and brothers. Because, isn't that what families do for each other? Show up at a moment's notice when called upon?! You're darn tootin' it is.
So I send a big thank you and shout out to my man and my boys. You are awesome.

Added later...and I am thankful for Out of Town Son's wife. She will probably win the golden lifesaver award, too.

Falling leaves.

Mr. Macho and I raked and mulched leaves this morning. We also burned a pile of sticks in our fire pit. I am thankful that the pile is gone.
I am also thankful that my Dad is feeling slightly better after a not so good morning. I don't know what tomorrow will bring. I am thankful for today.

Mad rush.

The store was crazy with people today. I should know better than do my grocery shopping on a Friday afternoon.
Daughter had a blip in the house buying/selling process today. I would really like to take the previous owners of her new house and shake them 'til their teeth rattle. They were nasty people and left a nasty mess. Professional cleaners are making a valiant effort to clean the disaster.
In the end she will have a wonderful house with so much good space that life will be nicer. Children will have play space in and out of the house. She will have a terrific sun porch to relax on. There will be a good outcome.

I am excited about the possibility of some surprise guests for Thanksgiving. I do hope it works out and they can be here. It will be more like a celebration of thanks with more people.

Since typing the ugliness of the nasty house sellers I am feeling it leave me. The anger that I felt for them.

I am conjuring happy thoughts of a warm new home for Daughter and family. I am thinking of how much fun they will create and all the memories they will make in their new home.

Right now I am thankful for this moment as it fills with peace.

Rats.

Okay. I missed a day. Woof. Was up and running yesterday. Have an order for two crochet hats and was getting busy on them after I finished at the gym in the morning. Carpenters arrived to work on Mr. Macho's shop!! Then in the afternoon I got my cornbread dressing put together for Thanksgiving.
Daughter called and put out and S.O.S. for a babysitter because Merritt is sick.
So, for yesterday I am thankful that my dressing is in the freezer.
For today I am so thankful that I am able to go help. Nanny to the rescue!

Fun day.

Thankful to have some new friends. I enjoyed going to lunch and watching a movie with them this afternoon.

Cha ching!

And the Christmas shopping is officially under way! I bought the first Christmas present today. It was 50% off and I even got free wrapping. Woo. Hoo.
And I bought enough stuff to fill two Christmas shoe boxes.
It fills me with joy to be able to share. I am thankful for sharing opportunities.

Quick day.

Where did the day go? After church we had little time to relax. Mr. Macho grilled some chicken and I cooked the veggies. After dinner we drove over to T-Town and shopped at Sam's. Ran into Daughter's real estate agent and had a nice store visit with her. After that we dropped by Daughter's house for a quick visit. Merritt was not feeling well...seems that several of her classmates have RSV. Not a good thing. She will see her doctor in the morning.
Daughter's house is in the throws of the move. Boxes are lined up ready to be hauled to the new house. Next weekend Lauren and Tucker will come over and spend several days with us until the new house has new carpet and is ready for occupation.
***
Today I am thankful that I live in this country. I am free to worship as I like. I am free to travel as I like. I am able to live in comfort. I am safe. Thank you men and women that have served to insure our way of life. God bless all our Veterans. God bless all our soldiers. God bless our country. Amen.

Weekend gratitude.

Thank goodness for Saturdays and sunshine. Separate. And together.

3 things.

Today I am thankful for 3 things.
1. Thankful to be feeling better.
2. Thankful to have had time to work (and almost be finished)  on a baby afghan for an LSU grandmother-to-be.
3. I am thankful for the sound of keys being hung up as Mr. Macho arrived home in this afternoon.

Oh my.

What am I thankful for today? Good question. I am thankful for kleenexes. Cough drops. A good sofa. And the TV channel TLC.
Got a nasty little head cold and am taking the day off.

Test?

This is a test. What will you make of the next four years?
In all things give thanks. Consider this the perfect, God given, opportunity to do something worthwhile and meaningful. Stretch yourself wide. Go beyond your comfort zone to help someone, to do something good and right. Think positive. Be positive. Turn your other cheek. Give thanks that you have been given a very real opportunity to put your faith into action.
Give thanks and go make a difference.

Election day.

I voted. I love my country and I view my duty to vote an honor.
Today I called off our scheduled trip to the coast to visit my parents. Mr. Macho and I have both developed scratchy throats and sniffles. We will not share the germs with Mom and Dad.
After voting I dropped by the Dollar General and picked up some vitamin C, cough drops, Vapo rub, and Alka Seltzer cold tablets. I am thankful for the convenience. Gotta love those Dollar Generals. They are everywhere.

Monday's warm fuzzy.

It was a mostly good weekend. If you subtract the football. Our team lost Friday night. Two more of our teams lost on Saturday. Saturday night we were split in the cheering section. My team won. His team didn't.

Out of Town Son and his sweet wife spent the night with us Saturday night. Yesterday we so enjoyed visiting with them. Son in Town and his wife and Sweet Pea came by after church and it was a good visit with them, too. 

The Minnie Mouse hat was finished and Sweet Pea got to take it home. 

We visited with Daughter on Skype and the Super Carrot is also learning like a sponge right now. She points to her teeth when prompted. With help she finds her nose and hair. She says "dog" and barks softly. She knows a cow says "moo". 

Sweet Pea serenaded us with her renditions of "Twinkle Twinkle Little Star" and "The ABC Song" - sung right into the end of a jump rope for her microphone. 

I just know these two girls are going to be great cousins to each other - Sweet Pea and Super Carrot. Peas and Carrots! 

***

I am so very thankful for my children. I am so proud of each of them. They color my world. 

New digs.

Today I am thankful for decisions made. I have been riding on Daughter's roller coaster ride = making a decision on buying a new house. The deal is made. In a few weeks they will be moving. Relief washes over me.

Ahhh. Saturday.

Slow wake up. Change of pace.
Visits with my offspring.
Football games.
Many reasons to be grateful.
Dear God, Thank you for inventing Saturdays.

Day #2.

Mr. Macho. I am thankful for him. As I set the table for breakfast this morning I could hear him whistle while he was gathering the trash to take out. At table we are at ease whether silent or chatting. 35 years and I still like him. Most days. But always am thankful that it is him I wake up next to.

November?!

It has been a fun year of blogging. Daughter challenged me last year. In keeping with the seasonal theme of thanksgiving, she dared me to blog my gratitude every day during the month. And so. I did. I have returned the favor and given her the same challenge this year.
My first gratitude blog for this year...
Today I am thankful for warm things. A warm bed. A warm robe. A warm cup of coffee. I can't explain why, but I have consciously chosen not to turn on our heat, yet. The house has been in the mid to low 60's in the mornings this week. So the warmth of the bed, and the robe, and the coffee feel extra nice in the chilly house.
What is making you feel all good and warm today?

Hats.

Sweet Pea and her dad came over for a visit Thursday night and she very generously agreed to model some of my hats. Such a professional!

The hats speak for themselves.

***

I had a fun day with four of my dance girlfriends yesterday. Road trip to Tupelo and the Celebration Village fundraiser for the hospice house there. Wish I had taken a picture of us. Really, these three ladies are the nicest to be around. I can see myself falling into a deep friendship with them.

*****

A cold front has arrived with the temps dipping to, at least, 46 this morning. I am moving more summer clothes up and winter clothes down today. Mr. Macho is mowing the grass. Maybe for the last time this year. We plan to attend a fun one year old birthday party this afternoon. Tonight we will settle in for chili dogs and good football. 

Go team!!

Quick post.

Where did the weekend go? Want to get back under the covers and rewind the clock.

Friday night we watched our Trojans lose in the last two minutes of the game. It was neck and neck most of the game. Their necks just stuck out a little farther than ours. 

Saturday started slowly and picked up speed until all of a sudden it was over. We got up leisurely. At breakfast we (I) decided to make a run to the store that has almost everything. Daughter had emailed me Friday afternoon about a possible Halloween costume for the Super Carrot. Mr. Macho was in need of some new blue jeans. So off we went. He found two new pairs of jeans. I found just the right pattern for the costume, fabric, and all the notions I needed. 

While Mr. Macho washed and vacuumed vehicles I constructed said costume. Quick lunch. Finish the costume project. Pack the overnight bag, and we were off to babysitting adventures. Daughter and her husband attended a post-wedding party for her college roommate. The chilluns were good. They ate their supper, played for while until the next door pit bull got out of his backyard and we hightailed it inside, watched TV, took the baths, and went to bed. All before 9:00. 

Sunday morning after we attended Mass, Mr. Macho and I said our goodbyes and were off to the Kentuck Festival. We went last year and enjoyed it so much we wanted a repeat. The weather this weekend was perfect festival weather. We enjoyed looking at all the folk art. I was looking for one artist in particular but did not connect. Oh well. We both agreed that we didn't see anything new this year and probably will not go back for a few years. The artists really are incredible over there. If I had been in a spending mood I would have brought home a a speckle trout drawn with brilliant color pencil on a piece of old cedar, a didgeridoo, and a blown glass pumpkin. At least. If money were no object I would have brought home a truck load of art. 

Little 'to do' things on my list this week. Starting it off with an oil change, a truck tag, a quick run in to a store for some laundry soap and a few other staples, and a stop at the post office. Dance class tonight. 

Gonna get started right now. Peace. 

Birthdays and pumpkins.

The weekend was good to us. All the family was here celebrating Mr. Macho's birthday. A house full of family ate, drank, and laughed together last night. Babies ran around. Eventually cried their way to sleep. Being surrounded by family is a comfortable cocoon.
The red beans and rice that I had cooked on Friday were yummy. So glad I made a double batch. We even lit candles on a cake and sang the Happy Birthday song.
Earlier yesterday we visited a nearby pumpkin patch. County Pumpkins. Just take a look...

Cousins. Tucker, Lauren, Peyton, Merritt, and Whitt. 

Whitt and Peyton drove up in a snazzy wagon. Merritt had to seriously check them out.

Lauren and Tucker were the last two cars of this train ride. Pulled by some type of four wheeler vehicle. 

The Country Pumpkins people really have a nice set up. There was a small hay maze, a large corn maze, a cotton trailer full of cotton to play in, a sand box filled with kernels of corn, two different kinds of swings, a pony ride, a hay ride, small tractors for the small children, real old tractors for big kids to climb on....get the picture? And. Pumpkins. And. Gourds. More varieties that I knew existed. 

We found some fun at the punkin' patch.

***

After a weekend of food indulging I am back on the Weight Watcher band wagon. It was a good break. I enjoyed all the fatty, yummy, sweet bites. 

*****

Towels to fold.  Dishes to put away. Must get busy. Then I can sit with my book and let the good vibes from the weekend rock me to sleep. 

Chilly weather = chili weather!

It is a great early fall day. Mr. Macho and I did not wake up until after 8:00. Very unusual. It was the nice cloud cover that helped us stay asleep longer. And the coolness that necessitated a light blanket. Thus making it too cozy to get up any earlier. 

***

Yesterday I peeled and canned a five gallon bucket of pears. Given to us by Mr. Macho's first cousin, once removed. Those pears equaled two quarts plus ten pint jars of preserves. This morning Mr. Macho helped me peel and slice another five gallon bucket of pears. It made two quarts, one pint, and eleven half pint jars of preserves. Thank goodness the Piggly Wiggly had the case of half pint jars this morning. I bought the last canning jars in the store. They are completely out now. So don't go there looking for any. 

After I finished with the pears I washed the pot and got my chili going. It is simmering right now and should be ready about 6:00. Come on over. The outside temps are perfect for some chili. Or soup. Or stew. It is cloudy and was even drizzling a tiny bit when I went outside to dump some compost. It would be a great evening to have a little fire outside and roast some marshmallows. That is if it isn't raining. 

*****

My table for the new den was delivered right on time yesterday morning. I thought my rug would not be in until the 12th but Lowe's called this morning and it was here and Mr. Macho ran right out and picked it up. Thank you, Daughter for suggesting red. It is the perfect accent in the new room. 

And so goes another day in this adventurous life. Mr. Macho is enjoying a day of football, football, and some more football. Sorry to say that our Trojans were not victorious last night. The steam has gone out of that engine. 

Happy weekend, y'all. 

Como estas?

Unfortunately Spanish class was cancelled today. We will have a two hour class next week instead. Last week we got to pick a Spanish name to use in class. Mine is Rosa - or - Mi nombre es Rosa. Cool. Right? Yeah.

Dance class this month include beginning triple step swing and intermediate nightclub two step. Oh. It is challenging. And fun.

Good rain for two days has lead to a reduction in temperatures. The skies cleared this afternoon and I actually need a light sweater outside right now. It feels stupendous.

I found a table for the new den. I totally let price dictate and completely bought something different than I had pictured. Mr. Macho and I ran to town and I ordered a rug to go under said new table.
Uncle Jay called this afternoon and project "finish the shop" is back on track. Garage door is due in on Friday (along with my table and chair delivery!) Woot woot!

Am losing some lbs on this Weight Watcher's Diet. The zipper. So. Much Easier. I ain't even going to lie. I am hungry most of the time. The fruit I am eating is ridiculous. But it is paying off.

Merritt and her parents at her first birthday party.

And my photo capability is back. I guess the blog people were just fibbing when they said I couldn't download any more pictures because I had used up all my gigabytes of photo space. Ha. Wrong. Can I get a "what-what"?! 

****

La vida es buena. Adios.

Roller coaster.

The ride has been up and down this week. I enjoyed my three classes. There are only 6 sessions per class. I like that. Short and sweet. I REALLY like the Spanish class. I like the teacher's approach that tries to get us to say as many Spanish words out loud as she can. That is good. Practice is good. 

Drawing class is good simply because I like being around other like-minded people that enjoy art. 

Dr. Armando de la Cruz teaches my Tai chi class. He is originally from the Philippines. Tai chi makes me happy. It is good meditative exercise.

Yesterday I drove over to celebrate Grandparent's Day at Lauren and Tucker's school. Lauren's class sang a sweet song that made me cry. They each showed me their class rooms. I thoroughly enjoyed the morning. After a fruitful visit to Sam's I had lunch with Daughter and thoroughly enjoyed our few minutes together. 

Yesterday had its down moments. Dad had a rough morning with some bad breathing issues. More meds helped him relax and rest. Don't know what today will mean for him. 

***

Friday night and we will be at home keep a check on the Trojans remotely. Their game is 3 hours away and we just don't do the long distance games anymore. Here's a shout out - Go Trojans!! 

****

Furniture is being delivered today! It has been about 6 weeks since we picked it out. One piece is not in but I wanted the rest to be here. We are getting a new credenza for our TV  plus two occasional tables for the old den. A media chest is also being delivered for the new bedroom. The bedside table will come later. Now I need to find a table and 6 chairs for the new den. Another rug for the new den. And some other odds and ends. I am almost ready to start hanging some art! 

*****

Don't really have weekend plans. I guess we'll just fly by the seat of our pants. Gotta love that. I'll let you know if anything exciting happens or adventure comes our way. 

First birthday party.

The weekend was good. Saturday we attended the celebration of the 85th birthday of a dear friend. He worked with Mr. Macho and retired back in the 1980's. He can still run circles around most of us. Happy Birthday A.O.!
Sunday we celebrated Merritt's birthday with a party. Carrot cake was enjoyed by all.
I would like to include photos. I took so many cute ones. Only, I am out of my free space on this Google Blog account. So, no more snaps unless I pay a monthly fee to download them to the blog. Sorry.

The weather here has been ideal. Low humidity. Cool temps. Lots of sunshine. We officially welcomed Fall a little before 10:00 a.m. last Saturday. Bring on the sweaters, the pumpkins, the hot cocoa! Bring on the piles of leaves and the smell of someone in the neighborhood burning pine straw. Our screened porch is THE spot to be now. Love it. Love it. Love it.

I have some yummy leftover roast and veggies from our Sunday dinner that I plan to use for a soup this afternoon. After I get back from Spanish class. The day holds promise.

Another Happy Birthday post.

Just can't leave well enough alone. More snaps from one year ago. So many people to welcome you into this world....

First kiss.

Dad. 

Nanny. 

Granddaddy.

 

Meeting your sibs. 

Lauren. 

Tucker.

Friend, Michelle. 

Pa. 

Happy First Birthday Merritt!! 

A year in review.

Dear Merritt,

You were born at 2:27 p.m. on a Wednesday. Born on the day that is celebrated as the International Day of Peace. From the moment you were born you brought peace with you into your family. Lauren and Tucker waited anxiously for you to be born. Lauren called you "our baby". When Lauren first looked at you she was in love. It showed in her face. Tucker loved you right away, too. 

 You are a Mama's girl. You eat her up when she holds you. I think you are really kissing her, but it looks like you are trying to eat her face. 

 You are a happy girl and a joy to me and your granddaddy.

At 10 centimeters. 

Meeting Merritt. 

Aunt Tracy and Uncle Wayne brought Lauren and Tucker to see you. Lauren was rushing to meet you.

Ready to leave the hospital. 

Random sleeping snapshot.

Snapped this while Aunt Alyssa was trying to get a photo for your Christmas card. 

Your first Christmas. Yes, that is a Hanukkah onsie. 

Happy girl. 

Easter.

Pretty blue eyes. 

Fourth of July. 

Your baptism. 

Almost one year old. 

I wish you a happy first birthday. May peace be ever in your heart and love surround you all the days of your life. 

Feeling all aglow.

Great 3 mile walk this morning. Feeling the residual Zen of my art and my tai chi class from yesterday.  Plus. The air is cool. It is sunny. Low humidity. I was finding my chi and having happy drawing thoughts, enjoying the play of sunlight on the grass. Dark green. Light green. Everything was sharp and in focus.
The official start of Fall begins shortly after 9:00 a.m. on Saturday. I find it funny that Fall begins at a specific moment. Autumnal equinox. It brings on these wonderful pictures in my head of sweaters and pumpkins and stews and burning leaves in the yard. This morning was cool enough that it warranted wearing a t-shirt AND a long sleeve shirt.
I have things to do today. Bible study. Grocery shopping. Art homework (just have to draw something). I am trying out some Weight Watchers' recipes and finding that I like them. I am having some success in losing the pounds that I want gone. My pants are fitting better. I will not have to purchase a new wardrobe, after all. Whew.
Later today we will attend a junior high football game. I'll wear a sweater. We will eat a hot bowl of leftover gumbo before the game. And maybe we will even burn some leaves on Saturday. To celebrate and welcome Fall.
Tomorrow is a special day. So be sure and check back for my post.

Rainy Monday

It is steamy feeling outside. The rain started when I was getting my annual mammogram this morning. Someone turned on the sauna. 

Had a few quick stops on the way home. To pick up the 1% milk and drop by the store that sells everything for $1. Saw a cute idea on Pinterest and am copying it. Cheap. Cute. Will gift it to someone. Will post pic when I finish. 

Here is what I made on Saturday with more bounty from Uncle Jay's garden...

***

Happy to talk to Dad on Skype this morning. In his very own den. On his very own computer. He and Mom arrived safely yesterday after their extended stay in Ridgeland where they had evacuated for Isaac. It is such a relief to them. And to all of their children. All nine of us. 

****

Am back to working on some crochet projects. The never ending sunflower granny square afghan. One day I will finish. Am also working on another baby hat. 

And the beat goes on.

Weddings and harvests.

Friday I went outside to retrieve my hummingbird feeders. They were bone dry and needed scrubbing and refilling. Got that done. While I was out I noticed the sweet potato vine that was growing out the planter had leaves turning yellow. Hmm. In late spring I had, on a whim, decided to just plant some sweet taters that were sprouting in my kitchen. Originally I had no intention of harvesting sweet taters but Friday I decided to dig in the dirt to see if any had actually grown. Look what I found!

Taters just out the ground.

Sweet taters all nice and washed. 

Growing in the planter encouraged the taters to grow with some curvy character. 

You will be glad to know that the taters are cut, oiled, salt and peppered and in the oven as I type. I love the sweet tater oven fries. 

I might try to repeat this next year since it was so rewarding to dig up these little boogers.

***

Last evening Mr. Macho and I attended the wedding of a friend's daughter. She is a lovely young lady that grew up in our neighborhood. Her wedding was a sweet ceremony followed by a fun reception. It was all very well done and not over done. Kudos to the bride's family for doing everything just right. It was the most fun I have had at a wedding and reception in a long time. Good food. Good dancing. Happy times. 

The happy couple will honeymoon in St. Lucia. One of my most favorite spots on the planet. 

****

Another happy bit of news. My parents are on their way home. Right now. This very minute! They were evacuated because of the storm named Isaac. They have been away from home for exactly three weeks. We cut their stay by one week. Yesterday Mom celebrated her 92 birthday. Paulette spent yesterday with them getting them packed and saw them off this morning. Mimi and Marsha will be there to welcome them home. New sitters have been hired that will give them around the clock care. Mimi has cooked up a storm and been grocery shopping, too. Their fridge and freezer are well stocked. 

*****

I confess that I splurged on the food at the reception last night. I have been on the Weight Watcher diet for almost two weeks. I have dropped a few pounds. Last night I treated myself to some of the creamy dips - but didn't eat any of the crostini or chips. I ate three sausage balls. I ate a rib. Yes. Only one. And I must say it was delish. Then I got a plate of fruits and veggies and munched. I had several bites of the wedding cake and the groom's cake then passed them to Mr. Macho to finish. But the worst thing I did was drink several glasses of wine. And it was all good.

I am back on the wagon today. Counting my points and making wise choices. And drinking lots of 

water. 

******

The next week should pass like a speeding bullet. I have my annual mammogram in the morning. This week I begin three mini-courses through the local college. Beginning Spanish, drawing and tai chi. Wednesday night I am a hostess at my bunko club. Merritt's first birthday is this week (the 21st) and we will drive over for her party next Sunday. 

Good times, man.

What's for lunch.

I am trying hard to stay within my Weight Watcher point range. I was very proud of myself last night. We ate out. I ate a salad with balsamic vinaigrette on the side - used maybe a teaspoon of dressing. I also ate grilled asparagus and a delicious grilled catfish with a nice crawfish sauce. People around me were eating fried plates of yumminess and creamy pasta dishes. I did take two pinches of the fresh bread the waitress brought to sop up the last little bites of the crawfish sauce. All in all I felt like I ate pretty light.

On Sundays we usually eat a mid-day dinner. Sunday nights are called "every man for himself" night at our house. Today I cooked brown rice, canned black beans with homemade salsa, and stir fried chicken with onions an peppers and spiced with chili powder. It was all yummy. And I fared pretty well on my WW points. 

*****

Babysitting yesterday was pretty easy. Merritt crawled and played and was a most sweet baby all day. 

At lunch time I sat Merritt in her high chair and gave her some baby yogurt puffs. I warmed myself a bowl of vegetable soup. When I started to eat, Merritt started to grunt. I gave her a bite of carrot out of my soup. She looved it. She ended up eating all the veggies out my soup which included all the carrots, celery, green beans and tomatoes. She spit out the rice and what ever else those little things were in the soup (maybe barley?). 

After playing inside for a short time, Lauren and Tucker played outside with a neighbor boy and only came inside for lunch the rest of the day. 

Lauren's posed surprise face. Watch me color, Nanny. She always wants an audience. Maybe she will be an actress when she grows up! I hear she is really good at learning the weekly poem that her teacher assigns. 

Tucker's bored face. Like, take the picture already, Nanny. And get out of my face. I am busy! Can't you see?

Cutie Patootie! She is all smiles. And drool. If you are around her, you are gonna get wet. 

Crawling under the table. What a fun game!

She licked the windows and door while she watched the big kids playing outside. 

***

Wishing I could be on the coast to help Mimi. This week she has totally cleaned out two refrigerators at Mom and Dad's. She has arranged and been present for carpet cleaning, plumbing repairs, and lawn clean ups. She has lined up three new sitter companies to be interview by her, Peter, and Marsha. (Another sister and a brother.) Mind you, Mimi is also employed and has a house of her own to run. Amanda made it back to Virginia in one piece. I know she feels blessed, as I did, to have helped care for Mom and Dad during their evacuation. 

Lynn is due in Ridgeland tomorrow to assume The Duties. She will stay until Friday and be followed by other sisters - Paulette then Stephanie. 

I understand that Dad has had to take his nitro glycerin several times this week for his chest pain. I am most anxious, as I know all my siblings are, to get Mom and Dad home. Dad needs home. Amanda is working on making the travel arrangements as siblings on the coast begin to hire new sitters. 

It really is taking a village to "raise" our parents. 

Wrap this one in gold and black.

That's right. We are in the throws of football. Again. Son-in-town is an assistant high school football coach. Tonight we will be in the stands cheering on the Trojans. Unless it rains. When Coach Son was in high school rain could not keep me away. Not so now. I still love the high school football game. Love watching the band march into the stands. Love the National Anthem. Love watching the crowd. Love watching the game. Love the excitement. Go Trojans!
The week has slipped through my hands with not much to talk about. Have tried to catch up from being out of town last week. Have done a little crocheting. Actually bought a couple of crochet booklets. Working on a new little baby bonnet pattern.
I started Weight Watchers this week. My pants were feeling just too tight. I already feel better just for having put more fruit and vegetables into my diet. My workout this morning felt energetic. All good.
Am heading to have lunch with Daughter today. The Super Carrot is home with a tummy bug. I hope the bug doesn't travel.
Amanda, sister from Virginia, has had The Duty with Mom and Dad this week. Sunday will complete their second week of evacuation. Hopefully we will get them home in another two weeks. Mimi, sister on the ground, is cleaning and working hard to have everything in place for their return home. Amanda will fly home tomorrow. Lynn, sister from Texas, will arrive on Monday to spend the week ministering to our parents.
Tomorrow I will drive back to Daughter's house and babysit Lauren, Tucker, and Merritt. Daughter is helping  host a wedding shower for her college roommate. Fun times. She has kept up with many of the friends she made in college. Old friends are good to have. I have very few friends that I feel like are true blue old friends.
No going to that pity party today. I have much to do before the sun goes down. Better get to it. Adios!

I am back.

What a week. This time last week my sisters were scrambling to remove my parents from the path of the storm named Isaac. Thought it would be Monday before a hurricane watch/warning would be issued. It was earlier. Arrived home from church Sunday morning and got the call that it was the day and the ambulance was due to arrive within the hour to load them up and move them out. I threw essentials into a suitcase and by 11:00 was well on my way to meet the ambulance at an assisted living facility in Ridgeland.
Mom and Dad arrived around 3:30 in the afternoon. My older brother and his sweet wife were there also to help get them settled and see to their needs. Bless them both. They brought Mom and Dad many items to help make their month long stay as comfortable as possible. Even went so far as loaning Dad a laptop computer so that he can continue to stay connected to us all via Skype. Skype lifts him up.
Monday and half of Tuesday we lost a little ground with Dad. He was exhausted, pale, and slept most all of that time. By Tuesday afternoon a little color came back to his face and he held his ground for the rest of the week.
I am throwing down the gauntlet and challenging all my siblings to spend a week caring for Mom and Dad. The idiosyncrasies of their lives are so varied I can not possibly recall and convey all the nuances of the job that is caring for them. They both need us. It took both the sitter and me to get things done. Mom is really beginning to need care, also.
I am ever thankful to older brother and wife for caring for me while I was caring for our parents. They both work but found time to drop by during the day to visit. And they provided me a bed and wonderful meals every night. Hugs and kisses and gratitude from me continue to flow their way.
For the next three weeks one sister will be with Mom and Dad to help distract them from the fact that they are not in their home and to care for them and make them as comfortable as possible.
To my siblings: if you do not take a turn, at some point, spending significant time and caring for Mom and Dad you are missing a valuable opportunity. A truly golden opportunity. It is difficult, sad, happy, sometimes wears your patience, but so filled with love that you should not pass up the chance to put your love in action. I feel blessed for having been there. Amen.