Lesson learned.

Never.
Drink wine and watch "Stepmom".
Alone.

Tough being a grown up.

I have had a sick headache all afternoon. Today I decided to give up a trip to go see Mom so that Mr. Macho could be available to help his family. He was willing and ready to take the trip. But. He really could not have gone out of town and relaxed with his dad recovering from a stroke. I could not have enjoyed myself, either.  I COULD have gone by myself. That didn't feel right, either. It was not an easy decision to give up going to see Mom and to give up celebrating the new year with my siblings and commemorating the third year since Dad died.  In fact, it broke my heart a little. Yet. It just would not have been right to leave town when father-in-law is not well. It was a rough day. A really rough day. It felt like sacrifice and the right thing to do all at the same time. I am sad but peaceful. 

Mr. Macho is spending another night at the rehab with his dad. I am having wine and chocolate for supper. It's that kind of night. 

Where meek souls will receive Him still...

The morning dawned quiet. I have never been alone on Christmas eve and Christmas morning. Ever. And somehow I did not feel lonely this morning. 

Mr. Macho's dad had a stroke earlier this week. He and his sister have taken turns staying with him at night. 

I woke early to eat my own breakfast. I read Luke's story of the birth of the Christ child. And cried through the entire reading. My Christmas waffles, the old family recipe, were extra crispy this year. 

I want to write how I have felt through this week, but I don't think I can express it well. I have felt warm of heart and generous of spirit. It did not upset me to be by myself last night, nor this morning. I must say that I drove up to the hospital before 8:00 to deliver a hot breakfast to Mr. Macho. Then I spent the morning just being there with him and his dad.

The best part is this. I was gifted a special moment there. In the hospital room. Close your eyes and picture this - a son shaving his father. (I am going to make this schmarmier than it was - but I am the one telling this, so I am taking license, it is based on a true story.) Picture the son wetting the face and spreading the shaving cream across the jaw. Then the hands wipe, and touch, and shave his father's face. The hands caress the face. They wipe with a warm cloth. They stripe the cheek over and over with the razor, ever so gently. In those moments of watching I savored the gift. 

I knew Christmas had come. In that very place, on this very morning. 

The weather is warm, my heart is warmer. 

...The dear Christ enters in.

Twas the weekend before Christmas...

...and down deep in the south

The babies were lined up.

The scalley wags out! 

The aunts were in costume.

The great grands looked  tough.

The grand children battled

And if that wasn't enough...

The cousins played sweetly.

The siblings - how silly!

Father and son - Roll Tide fans.

Yes, really!

Stories were shared.

Bed hair, messy but clean. 

Millie made faces

Like you've never seen!

With our best "Silly Millie" faces we wish a

Merry Christmas to all!

And so it begins...

...the Christmas frenzy. Mr. Macho started his Christmas vacation yesterday. His first real vacation time off all year. Today the toilet woke me up doing its spooky running thing. I thought, "Oh no! This is the first day of sleeping late!" And. Then I looked at the clock. (Insert smiling emoji here.) It was 6:45!!! That made me happy.

We hit the ground running...after breakfast Mr. Macho has worked in the yard, only coming in to eat lunch. I have boiled my eggs for the deviled eggs I will make tomorrow. I peeled and cooked 5 lbs of potatoes and put together my potato salad. That will go with the chicken gumbo we will eat on Sunday. I put together a batch of sausage balls. I have assembled the pack-n-lay for Miss Cecilia. I am in the process of vacuuming. I needed a rest for my back, so here I sit.

I still want to put together some fudge and spinach dip. I will attend a bunko Christmas party tonight. I still have several things to accomplish this afternoon...

Listen. This one little minute I am sitting here anticipating with warmth and love the gathering that is about to happen. This one little minute I feel peaceful. This one little minute I am not worried that something won't be just right or something will go undone. This one little minute.

And. There it goes. Gotta run finish the floors. Then the fudge.
Tomorrow and the next tomorrow our guests will arrive.



People, look east. The time is near 
Of the crowning of the year.
Make your house fair as you are able,
Trim the hearth and set the table.
People, look east and sing today:
Love, the guest, is on the way.
-Eleanor Farjeon

Elf, is that you?

You wouldn't believe the fairy dust all over my house. Every time I turn around I am vacuuming fairy dust! AND! All of a sudden presents have appeared under our tree. I don't know how this has happened! I'm just saying...there are spirits in this house (wink wink).

Do you need a little Christmas? Right this very minute? Well. Get yourself to Hobby Lobby because Christmas is 50% off. You have no excuse.

Jingle those bells!
Peace.

Welcome Christmas!

Christmas is sneaking up on me this year. And. That is just how it will have to happen. And. It will be wonderful. Marvelous. King of kings. Lord of lords. (We so enjoyed the signing of Handel's Messiah earlier this week.)

This weekend got sidetracked. Son-in-law had an overnight hospital stay ending with a colonoscopy. All is well in the end. (Hahahaha!) Really. He is okay. Scary diverticulitis! Not fun. So thankful that it was this outcome. I was worried about him.

In the midst of that crisis, Daughter got her pathology back. She needs a little more tissue removed from her forehead. Squamus cell? SHE. Has had the rough week.

So, Mr. Macho and I drove over yesterday so Daughter could be at hospital with husband, and bring him home after colonoscopy. The kids were terrific. They got along. Were well behaved. Did their chores. And. Minded their manners. It is easier when they are in their own home environment. I love those guys.

This afternoon we will go tour some homes decorated for Christmas. I will actually help host in one of the homes. It is the home of my friend. Their church is raising funds for a mission.

The chicken gumbo is getting made today instead of yesterday. To be served next Sunday. It is good,  I have little gifts bought that I will be happy to give this week. Only a few more must do's before next weekend. Which is when our family will gather around the tree..."Fah who for-aze! Dah who dor-aze! Welcome Chrismas! Come this way!..."

A few more loose ends will be gathered and tied this week.
I am letting my heart be light.
Peace on earth.

Breathing again.

Okay. Confession time.
I have pre-traumatic-birthday-disorder.
It's true. I suffer from it. Every year.
It is something I try hard to ignore and just get through. The emotions, I mean. Let's just say it stems from a combination of things. This year wasn't the worst. I was fairly successful in faking it through the week leading up to and the day of.

The week started with a nice dinner at sister-in-town's house. Oldest sister was driving through town. So we gathered to celebrate three birthdays...mine, oldest sister's, and nephew's birthdays. I received two lovely gifts that night.

The day was gorgeous yesterday. My birthday. Mr. Macho did remember to wish me a happy birthday as soon as he woke up. That was good. It started the day out nice and softly for me. All three of my children called early to wish me a happy day. That was the best.

Mr. Macho needed to work. On a Saturday. I had planned to fill my day with things to do so I wouldn't dwell on being alone. I made a batch of Belgian waffles that filled the house with the most delicious cinnamon aroma. I took a long walk. My sister-in-law unexpectedly arrived with a lovely gift and stayed for a good visit. I had calls from some of my siblings. My mom remembered to call mid-day! Bless her heart. I got 2/3 of the bathrooms scrubbed and washed and folded two loads of clothes.

Mr. Macho got home around his usual get-home time. We watched a little football. Then we showered and went out for the loveliest meal at my favorite restaurant in town. It was a cold night and I suggested we window shop downtown. That didn't last long. I got cold fast. I'm getting older, you know.

I am another number now. Facing a bigger number next year. I am breathing. Whew.

Peace on earth. Good will to all.

Dust and tissue paper.

I am chasing the dust. But it is winning. Dust was already in the house. And now?! More dust from the decorations making their way down from the attic. 

My angels are out. Hark, Harold, and all the rest.

The bear is in the witness protection program. His whereabouts will remain unreported. 

This Christmas season is on!

Shalom.

Wrapping it up.

The month of gratitude is coming to a close. It was better this year. Didn't feel the pressure to post every day. I know my life is good. There is a fullness within me. For that I am so very appreciative.

There have been several deaths in our community in the last two weeks. Deaths of what I consider young people. No one over 70. One as young as 30. People we are acquainted with. So. This weekend, as I looked around at our children and grandchildren, I found myself embracing it all. I wanted to freeze it in my heart. I want for my children and grandchildren to know how much they are loved. By me.

For three really terrific offspring.
Thank you, Lord.

We found love right where we are.

Me with Tucker and Merritt. 

Pick up game in the back yard while I prepared some spinach Madeleine. If you look to the far left you can almost see Millie. I took this photo out my laundry door. 

Merritt wanted her doll back. Millie wasn't conceding. 

Peyton and Merritt. 

Fishing. With sticks. 

***

For the food before us

The friends and family beside us

The Love between us

and 

Your presence among us.

Thank you, Lord.

Simple thanksgiving.

The small "t" was intentional. I have been so happy and relaxed. I only took one picture...of a gerbera daisy in my yard. I just wanted to enjoy the day, the moment. And. I have. It has been a blessedly simple day to be thankful for this life. My life.

The weather could not have been better. Sunny. 70 degrees. Mr. Macho picked up his dad and brought him home to share our Thanksgiving feast. The food was simple, traditional, and plentiful.

After dinner we dozed and watched football. Father-in-law stayed for several hours. While we dozed. Then he wanted to go home. Mr. Macho delivered him back.

We went outside. We walked the neighborhood. We enjoyed adult beverages on the porch. We watched a movie. We ate some more. Lovely day.

For this full heart.
Thank you, Lord.

Shhh...listen.

I am thankful for this moment. It is quiet in my house. All my foods are put together and in the fridge, where my turkey continues to thaw. My house is a little less than spotless, but I will swipe and sweep this afternoon. The important thing is that I am relaxed and so looking forward to the happy noise and chaos that will soon fill all the nooks and crannies here. They will descend like locust and eat everything in site.

Mr. Macho and I went to the movies last night. We watched "Love the Coopers". And. While it was no "Family Stone", it was just the ticket to put me in the schmarmy-holiday state of mind. It reminded me that my happiness can be found right here.

Home. Family. Love.
Thank you, Lord.

I just called to say...

Lunch time convo.
Me - on my way home from the grocery.
Daughter - on her way back to work.

For the laughter between us.
Thank you, Lord.

Thanksgiving list.

Check. First item accomplished this morning.
Home made vanilla wafers for the banana pudding.
No. I've never used the home made cookies before.
Oh. This is gonna be great!

I am fighting the urge to run to town and grab all the things I need. I am trying to work up a complete list today. The hope is that I only go to town once.  That will be tomorrow. Wednesday is "put it all together day".  Then I can relax.

My turkey is thawing.
The dirty clothes are being processed.
Floors are being vacuumed.
Working on a new crochet project. (Have put aside another one for now.)
Dance class tonight.

For the festive spirit that is growing inside me.
Thank you, Lord.

Back home.

It was just the ticket. Being out of town for the weekend was relaxing, in one sense, and exhausting in another. 

It was good to get out of our rut and routine and do something we hadn't done before. We attended a weekend of dances and dance workshops. Friday night the dance was fun. We are getting more familiar with the people in the ballroom dance club. Saturday we had classes in six different dances. Some we have dance before, and some were totally new to us. We surprised ourselves by hanging in there and doing all the classes. And then. Going back to the dance party Saturday night. But. By then we were about danced out. So. We danced a little. And watched a lot. And then went back to the hotel to watch the last bit of the MS State football game. (We had watched Ole Miss during our supper break!) I had taken off my glasses and closed my eyes, knowing that Arkansas was going to make a touchdown. Then the blocked field goal! I scrambled for my eyes to watch the replay! 

We woke to cold temps this morning. It is a gorgeous day. I am glad to be home. 

I am ready to start gearing up for our Thanksgiving feast. 

For this place we call home.

Thank you, Lord. 

Mini vacay?

For whatever reason, Mr. Macho has agreed to attend the dance workshop this weekend. We haven't taken any vacations to speak of this year. His work schedule has been pretty non-stop. We have made it out of town to visit children/parent/siblings.

And so. I think this may be a make up weekend for not taking time off before now. Yes. He will actually lose vacations days this year. Like he has for the last, oh, five years or so.

But. This weekend. He is mine. We will learn some smooth dancing techniques. Also. We will have our first quick step lesson.

I am happy about it all. The dancing. Spending two nights in a hotel. Eating out all weekend. The anticipated cold weather. It feels very festive.

For this time out weekend.
Thank you, Lord.

Missed it by that much.

I thought today was my surgery anniversary. But. When I looked back at my blog I realized that it was actually yesterday. So. One day late I am giving thanks that I am a year out from the back surgery. And. I want you to know that I literally thank God every day for how good I feel.

It doesn't seem like a year has gone by. The memory feels very recent. Yet my body knows. I just can not emphasize enough how good it feels to put my feet on the floor in the morning and walk and move without pain.

Going through all the back pain and issues last year taught me empathy. For that I am not sorry. I am thankful that I can listen to others and connect with them and know just how they feel. I understand what constant pain feels like. I am sorry for people who can not get relief. I remember wanting people to understand that my hurt was significant and would not go away. I was scared people were getting sick of my complaining. I tried to not say how I really felt. Yet when I did, I felt that people thought I was getting better when, in fact, that wasn't true. I was afraid to talk about it, and afraid to not talk about it.

For how good I feel right this minute.
Thank you, Lord.

Oops.

Missed yesterday.

I had a wonderful day shopping with my friends. I bought a few things. All on sale. Delightful lunch. Got home in time to throw together a chicken noodle soup that satisfied.

This morning it has rained. And. I am getting a few things organized. Paperwork. Plans.

Clothes are being washed. And. Folded. Slowly.

Daughter had an emotional response to some post-graduate tension yesterday. She called and almost hung up when she realized I was out with friends. I couldn't have made it through the day after hearing the panicked notes in her voice. I don't know why she thought she could deny something was wrong.  I was trying to help, but ended just trying to listen. And hear. And witness. Her frustration. She worked her way through it. And. Will work her way through it again today, I imagine. Education panic is a journey. Until the graduation. Then. We will celebrate!

What am I thankful for? For all of it. For a missed day of blogging. For fun times shared with friends. For being able to listen, and hopefully, lighten a burden. I am thankful for my sometimes messy life. Don't get me wrong. I understand it is a neat mess. My problems are miniscule. Comparatively speaking. Yet, do not negate my small messes. They are mine, and feel important. Know this - I can get through them.

For the rain. Literally. And metaphorically.
Thank you, Lord.

This moment.

I am thankful that my cornbread dressing is put together and in the freezer.
Thank you, Lord.

Time.

The weekend was well spent. The Super Carrot honored us with her presence. (She wears a crown, most of the time. So, I consider her royalty!) She was the consummate house guest. She ate what I fixed. She went to bed early every night. She cleaned up her mess, helped set the table, and unload the dishwasher. The weather cooperated and we played outside. A lot.

Merritt and her granddaddy are two peas in a pod. He can dish it out and so can she. That girls has some spunk! She rocks.

I'm so thankful for her, thankful for the time spent enjoying Merritt.
Thank you, Lord.

In the face of tragedy.

Hearts and prayers are with Paris. We grieve and mourn the losses.
Let us find connection with our family around the world.
Please, Lord, bring peace.
Thank you. Amen.

Simple stuff.

Today. This granddaughter. 

She likes the sewing cards. 

I played with sewing cards when I was little.

For shared songs and moments.

Thank you, Lord.

The ordinary occasions of life.

Sometimes it is good to buy flowers just to celebrate Thursday. And. Your in-laws coming for dinner.

For beauty. 

Thank you, Lord. 

Veteran's Day.

For happy memories of a sweet dad.

Thank you, Lord.

And. 

Please bless all those that serve this great nation. 

Skip day.

Today I am just going to be generically thankful. It is a good day. I know clouds will return, but for a few hours there are blue skies. 

Had a nice speaker and some good pot luck lunch dishes at the parish hall. Got to see friends that attend late mass (we go to "early bird"). Young and old. One lady had a new hair-do and I introduced myself to her only to find out she is someone I have known for years! It was funny. We laughed. She did look familiar. Only younger. 

Scrubbing toilets this afternoon. Mr. Macho was late last evening and will be again tonight. 

C'est la vie.

For this day.

Thank you, Lord. 

Catching up.

My mess is slightly more organized this afternoon. Today I have had time to do many small tasks. Filing, vacuuming, clearing off my "catch all" bed, and even getting ahead with some cooking. I have casseroles for two events this week, supper thawed for tonight, and supper cooked for tomorrow. Things have to start shaping up around here so I can keep my sanity for the holidays. Soon, very soon, I will make the waffles and cornbread dressing.

This morning I made quicks trips to the Piggly Wiggly and my local honey producer. I am very thankful for local merchants that afford me the luxury of not having to drive into town for what I need. It saves me time. And. Aggravation.
Thank you, Lord.

Sunday.

We've bought a new Christmas tree.
I saw a sale ad in the paper this morning. After dinner we drove to town to check out the tree. I was disappointed when I saw it in person. Even on sale, I didn't want to spend that much on a tree and be sorry I bought it. So. We moved on.
Second store. Same tree. $38 less than the first. For that price I decided to give it a try. And. For the price we paid, if we only use it one year we will get our money's worth.
Got home. I could put the tree up myownself, it is so easy. And. I am delighted. I think we can stuff it in the attic without taking it apart.


Two stores. Two sales. Right decision.
Thank you, Lord, for the bonus of Elvis gospel music on a Sunday.
There'll be peace in the valley.

Haiku to you.

Pear preserves on toast

Last year's harvest with coffee

Coupled with butter.

For my daily bread. 

Thank you, Lord.

Forgiveness.

Confession: I over extended myself this morning.

I made two committments. And. Didn't do either very well. I stressed, unnecessarily. Went from one event to the other in a rush. And in a downpour. Got soaked up to my knees. Sat through a speaker that spoke to the other side of the room.  Missed 3/4 of what he said.

Then came my redemption. A nice emotional lunch with two of my best girlfriends.
It is okay to be thankful to just get past a thing.
And.
I am forgiving myself.
This morning is over.
Thank you, Lord.

Connectedness.

At the wally-store. Again. Visited with two friends. One - familiar. One - simply an acquaintance. Checking out there was a round robin discussion about back surgery among 4 of us. Three customers and the cashier. 

Time. 

Time to connect. 

With old friends. 

And even strangers.

Thank you, Lord. 

La primera palabra es "patience".

There will be greens cooked this afternoon. I love to mix 'em up. Collards, mustards, kale, and spinach will all go into the same pot. And. Be delicious. I'll put in onion and garlic, a spoon of sugar, and chicken broth. Come on over. I am also cooking chicken breast and the last little plastic container of cornbread dressing from last year. It's gotta go. Time to make a new batch!

***

Last week I bought grapes at the wally-store. They looked nice. Yet, they were the most bitter grapes I had ever eaten. Thinking that the taste might be some kind of chemical spray I soaked them in vinegar water and rinsed them thoroughly. No. That wasn't it. Not ripe, maybe? I let them sit and tasted them every day. The bitter taste continued. Until today. I had the bowl in my hand and was about to open the back door, headed for the compost. Then. I popped one in my mouth and you know what? It was better. More ripe tasting. Almost like a raisin flavor. 

Patience. That was all I needed to find the good in the bowl of the small fruit. 

Is there something you might need to wait out? Give it a few days. Then take another taste. 

If it isn't better, take it to the compost and don't look back. 

I am so happy to have colorful foods in my kitchen.

Thank you, Lord. 

Agree to disagree.

This day I give thanks that my children have grown up to be independent thinkers. I am so proud that they are critical thinkers. I do not think I was ever patted on the back or given encouragement when I expressed a different way of looking at things from my parents. On important issues. Keep in mind that I come from a family that favors "heated discussion" as the indoor sport of choice.

My children continue to grow in their adult opinions, as do I. But. Their experiences are very different than mine. It is natural and wonderful that each one is developing through careful observation and reflection on how they view their world. Thinking. Believing. Supporting. Voting. We are different. And. I respect why and how they are arriving at their opinions.

I love that we can agree to disagree. Find common ground. Listen. Respect.

For adult children with open minds.
Thank you, Lord.

My witness.

I have a super bizzy day ahead. So. Had to get my walk in early. Sister Mimi called while I was on said walk. She witnessed me screaming loudly because three little dogs accosted me. One got a piece of my pants. I am sure I scared the school children waiting for the bus. But, hey! There is a leash law. To protect me. I hope I scared the owners of the dogs! I think I scared Mimi. Poor Mimi. I was shaking a little...but kept on walking. I don't let it stop me. Only. I want the dog owners to know there dogs are biting at me!

Ok. Now I must refocus. Hmmmmm...letting it go. Whew. I am fine. The dogs are fine. The school children may have a little PTSD this afternoon.

I am about to leave the house to help make small flower arrangements for hospice patients. From there I will go to our Loaves & Fish soup kitchen to help serve. I made a huge pot of chili yesterday. We will use about 9 or 10 big pots of chili to serve our guests.

I am thankful that I have a pot of chili to share. It is a good meal and will fill many stomachs today.
Thank you, Lord.

Yes, really.

Dear Daughter,
Yes. You started it years ago. I am going to continue. The challenge. 30 days. Month of thanksgiving. Here goes...

We turned back the clocks last night. Our Parish picnic is today, so Mass is later than normal. The morning feels marvelously slow and easy. So, this one is easy. I am thankful for this lazy morning. For having time to enjoy the coffee and read the paper.

I know by the time the month ends I will be struggling to conjure things for which I am thankful. But right now, with the month in front of me, I have a deep well of gratitude that sates me.

Thank you, Lord.

Winding up? Or winding down?

Bizzy week! Lots of eating out. Two different bunko parties. And. Hey! I won again this month. Woot! Woot! Got our free flu shots at the hospital on Wednesday. It is so easy and quick. Then I treated Mr. Macho to a new Thai restaurant. Yes he did! I know! Can you believe it? It was WAY out of his comfort zone, which is about ( ) this big. And he enjoyed it! It was a little trickery on my part...he actually suggested we eating at our Peking Chinese place and I threw in the curve ball and said let's try the new Golden Bowl. It was all good.

Got my grocery-ing done after the Bible study yesterday. And. I have to get on my soap box...two or three times in the last month I have spotted beggars at the local wallymart parking lot. To say it disturbs me is quite the understatement. These people. I know for a fact that there are a multitude of services in this town that will house and feed people. So for people to stand at a stop light with a cardboard sign declaring they have no food and have 2 children...well, I just don't buy it. Where are these children? In school? Then they are being fed. And. You know you can find food here in town. So. Stop the begging. Go help yourself!

Tonight we are going to the elementary art auction. To dance. I have been informed that there will be a DJ...and that is my favorite. Lives bands are often not dance-able. Hope it is fun. Will let you know.

I have stocked up on the candy on the off chance the rain will hold off and we will have 365 trick-or-treaters. I hope. Otherwise I have to find somewhere to donate all this candy.

Sunday. Parish picnic. May be raining. Should be loads of fun. Tongue. In. Cheek. It isn't my favorite, but we haven't participated in a few years and I am feeling guilty. Gonna go.

Today is spectacular. High will be in the 70's. Sunny and cool. Ace of a day.
Gonna go grab some gusto.
Namaste y'all.
Be sweet.
Go Bearcats!

Cc comes to town.

What a great weekend. Cecilia (aka Cc) and her mom and dad drove up Friday for a visit. It was also their fifth wedding anniversary. I got to babysit while the parents enjoyed a lunch date. Cecilia behaved herself very sweetly. She is a good baby. And she got lots of love this weekend. She didn't complain, much. 

Cc was bright eyed! She is finding her voice and likes to squeal. A little. 

Daughter and the Super Carrot loved holding the baby. Um, do you notice the bling on the Carrot's fingers? That girl, the queen of accessories. 

Cousin, Tucker, teaching Cc to like football. 

Out of Town Son sporting the whiskers. And it isn't even "No Shave November"! In honor of fall we decorated the beard. He was a good sport. I don't know about that photo bomber, though. 

I so enjoyed all the family that was here. It was just good. The cousins all wanted to hold Cecilia. All. The. Time. But, hey. How can you complain about too much family love? Reminders to be gentle and not pat her head were delivered. Merritt gave Cc lots of wet smooches. 

I wish you could have seen how cute Lauren looked in her church dress and boots Sunday morning. She is a looker! So, so stylish. 

After a good lunch of pork loin, potatoes, cole slaw, broccoli, and carrots, our children took their leave. Quiet descended. 

Back to routine. 

***

The weekend had its creepy moments...

Before anyone arrived I found this stalker on my doorstep. She was carrying about one million babies on her back. She met an early demise and so did many of her offspring. I sprayed and stomped into oblivion. 

Sunday morning, as I was getting ready for church, a funny thing happened. I brushed my teeth then dried my hair. When I started to put on my makeup I looked down in my sink and there was a tree frog!!!! It freaked me out. It had come up my sink drain. I called for the grandchildren to come see and for Mr. Macho to come capture the amphibian. Catch and release. I really don't like the tree frogs, but I know we need them around. I just can't emphasize how creepy it was. 

 *****

Here is my ag report. I didn't do so well on the sweet potato harvest. I only got these tiny specimens. Not enough to bother with. Oh well. There's always next year. 

Carry on future farmers. 

**

I have to give a shout out to all my teams for this past weekend! Can I get a woot-woot?!! From high school to college to professional - my teams won! Hip. Hip. Hooray!

***

Welcome rainy day!

 Ahh. Even though it feels rather warm today, it looks like fall with wet roads and lots of leaves on the ground. We needed the rain rather desperately. 

I have plenty to do today. I am waiting for a call back from my egg lady. I am down to only one egg. I have floors that need sweeping and dust that needs chasing. I am enjoying my current book - Anna Karenina by Tolstoy. Still working on three crochet projects, slowly. 

This week I have two bunko parties, dance, lunch with friends, free flu shots at the hospital, and who knows what else on the agenda. 

I am going to try a new chicken buffalo salad recipe for one of my bunkos this week. I'll let you know how it is received. What new things will you try this week? 

My adventurous spirit has felt dried out recently. Maybe this rain will wash out the cobwebs and renew my pep. Let's hope.

Be sweet. 

Brighter days.

My little garden club did a good thing today. It is an annual project. We go to an adult day care in town and help the guests redo their flower boxes that sit on the lovely deck at the center. 

It is a joy. We all dug in the dirt. We all chose from a variety of lovely plants. We all covered the roots. We enjoyed the sunshine. We talked. We worked side by side.

This new friend talked about her arthritis. She talked about loosing her tummy. She talked about heart trouble and exercising. She was in contact with her purse constantly. She wanted to know if I was going to put her picture in the newspaper. She asked if I knew how to take a picture with a phone and then proceeded to hand me a very dated phone. I'm not sure if it was even functional. I tried to find how to snap a picture with it. And failed. She wasn't upset. She was lovely. 

The name of the center is Brighter Days Adult Center.  Other ladies helped with digging up the weeds and getting the soil ready. 

Friendship was planted today. I look forward to doing this again. 

Y'all be sweet. 

Picture perfect.

This day. Cloudless blue sky. Low humidity. Cool. Leaves changing. And falling. We took a walk before mid-day dinner. No jacket. Too cool at the start. Warm glow finish.

This afternoon. Chilly and quiet. I tried to read on the porch in a jacket. A new book. Leo Tolstoy. Anna Karenina. Back inside. Remove the jacket. More reading. Then I gave in to the call of the sunshine, donned the jacket, and went to remove rocks from my garden. Picked up acorns. Watered my soon-to-be-harvested sweet potatoes. More quiet.

The adventure that was yesterday has vanished. Driving back roads. Over rolling hills and through small towns. We drove and drove to help celebrate the 50th wedding anniversary of old friends we haven't seen in years. Hugs and happiness were abundant. It's so good to see you. Cake and nuts. Visit with the grown children and almost grown grandchildren. I was his first baby sitter. He is almost an educated nurse. Come see me. Come back soon. Time flies. Then more driving. A Mexican dinner. Home for more ball games. And sleep.

Then Sunday. Quiet day. Spaces in between. Concentric circles.
Namaste.

Quiet little birthday.

38 years of marriage and I continue to fine tune our relationship and events. Mr. Macho marked his 62nd birthday with a visit with this dad, a visit from his in-town sister, a bottle of nice champagne, and a delicious steak from the Piggly Wiggly. At last I am getting the hang of what he likes. My sister and a friend both asked what I would serve with the steak, as if it would be a fancy dish. That is not what the Mr. prefers. He likes french fries, the frozen variety, cooked in the oven. That and a salad were served. The meal was topped off by two Butterfinger cupcakes procured at the local cup cake establishment. It was darn near perfect, according to Mr. Macho.

The democratic debate combined with the champagne provided the knock out punch and I only awoke when the teevee was turned off, signaling bedtime. Alls well that ends well. 

Mr. Macho seemed genuinely happy to receive the two books I had purchased at The Hermitage for his birthday. That plus the lottery ticket! Wouldn't that be fun?! I'll let you know. 

Yesterday I wore shorts and flip flops to go and pick up the cupcakes. We woke to a crisp 41 degrees this morning. So. I have just finished putting out the first box of winter clothes into my closet. Here it is the middle of October and it still heats up to a cozy 84 mid-day. Layering will be the modus operandi for the next month or so. Getting out of bed these days is harder due to the sun arriving later. And. It is cozy under the sheet and blanket. 

I think retirement talk is taking on new gravity. Especially since this birthday has passed. I'll admit that I am concerned because it is new territory. Ah well. We will figure it out. I am hoping sooner rather than later. 

Dusting awaits. 

Namaste, y'all. 

Girl trip.

Four girls. One car. Lots of luggage. Whole lotta laughs. 

It was a most fun weekend. Three friends and I ventured to Tennessee after "winning" a three night stay in a mountain lake house at a charity silent auction several months ago. 

We tried, and succeeded, to not eat at any chain restaurants. We also tried and succeeded in not cooking all weekend. 

Girls don't mind bathroom stops. We found interesting items at the Country Store, where there was a two toilet bathroom but no stalls with door. Hmm. But we did spy this pickled bologna. And. We each purchased a small can of potted possum. It was too funny to pass up. (We were assured that it really wasn't road kill in the can, even though that is what the label says.) I also spotted moonshine jelly in this store. 

We made it east of Nashville before stopping for lunch. We found a gyro place in a strip mall and ventured in. This gyro salad was delicious. And. I was hungry. The tabouli on the side was scrumptious, too. 

Upon arrival we discovered that our hosts had gifted us a basket chock full of goodies. A bottle of champaign, two bottles of wine, assorted crackers and cookies, cheese, and salmon filled the basket. 

Thursday night we had a smorgasbord of goodies from the basket and from my friend, Patricia, who prepared some lovely bruschetta. We stayed up late talking and laughing. 

Our view Friday morning out the window. 

We had to walk across this bridge to enter the house which was built on the side of the mountain. There were three more floors below this level. 

We found a very nice mall Friday afternoon and we each made happy little purchases. Friday night our hosts had made us reservations at a locally renowned steakhouse, Flemings. It was an upscale dining experience. Enjoyed by all. 

Saturday we visited The Hermitage, the home of Andrew Jackson. We spent hours touring the site. The wagon tour of the working part of the estate was, by far, our favorite. The driver was most entertaining. 

Pastoral scene on the grounds of The Hermitage. 

We woke to thick fog Sunday morning. We packed up and took the long way home through beautiful country. Gorgeous horse farms. Winding roads. Huntsville provided a diner with a menu chock full of too many choices. I settled on the ruben with a side of slaw and fries. There was no way I could finish it all. 

All in all it was an excellent adventure. Just like Bill and Ted. We are already talking about next year and bidding on the house again, if it is offered. 

On my way home I bought Mr. Macho a lottery ticket for his birthday. It is tomorrow. I hope he wins. 

It is a little tough getting back into the real world. But. My house smells better already. 

Happy fog will follow me this week as I bask in the glow of good friends. 

Namaste y'all. 

Blog neglect.

Eek! Sorry. I have been so busy these past two weeks I just haven't taken the time to add any new things. I am trying to think what I have been doing besides playing bunko (and winning!)...had a good hair appointment, helped host this month's garden club meeting, presided over the monthly senior mass/brunch Friday morning, visited with Beach Boy's girls this past weekend, made a huge pot of chili for and helped at the soup kitchen. Watched some mostly sorry football games over the weekend. Best football game this week was of the peewee variety. Got to watch the grandson play. His team, the Broncos, is an expansion team - mostly first year players. I loved watching Tucker's hustle. He was intensely "in" the game.

This week my girlies and I are gearing up for our trip to the mountains of Tennessee. Got all our info squared away this morning and we are more excited than ever. I'll take pictures and will share them on my return.

We have a new Ulta store in town and I have jumped the Mary Kay ship and am on board with new make up!!

I hope you are finding some fun, too.

Namaste, y'all.

A four year old birthday party

This is what it looks like to herd cats...

It was a totally great birthday party. Rain suspended itself for the party. It was a little breezy and just the right temperature. The children played hard on the playground, ate, opened presents, and played some more. They chased each other. Scared parents (this grand-parent) when they made brave moves on the play equipment. They were loud. We were outside. Loud doesn't matter so much. When you're outside. Parents kept peace. Baby siblings were passed around and loved. An older sibling, Tucker, and Mr. Macho played the football. (I am so glad he had someone to play with!) I love to call it "disorganized play". It is the best party plan for preschoolers. Just let it rip. 

Milestones. Life. 

It was a good day.

One step forward, two looks back.

 I welcomed fall this week. With crocheting. And a little painting. Lunch with my girls. A very lucky bunko day on Wednesday where I won not one - but TWO - cash prizes! It doesn't even begin to make up for all the times I lost. But. It was so fun for that one day. Everybody wanted to be me. Then they said 'let's go to the casino, quick!' The mounds brownies I had baked for the bunko party were well received. An understatement! The ladies gobbled them up, and took some home for later. Let me warn you - only make them if you have a crowd to feed. Otherwise you will eat them all yourownself. 

I want to regain my little art edge. So I started. Small. 

After the best bunko day ever - I packed and drove to Daughter's house. She and SIL had a date to see the Indigo Girls in concert. I spent the night. It was great. All threes kiddos were sweet and listened. They were angels. Tucker had J-Team and got a ride with a neighbor. 

Merritt insisted we play this card-guessing game. And. I want you to know that it is loads of fun. For real. Pure D fun. Lauren helped me learn how to play. She is a great sister. And she is getting very grown up. I am really proud of her and proud of how well she is doing in school and her reading some grown up sorts of books. Shout out to you Sweet Lauren!!

4 year old in the house! I love the way she selects her attire for school. 

***

I have to give another shout out to Pope Francis this week. I am praying for him and hope that his visit affects good vibrations and changes of heart where needed. 

Let us all endeavor to get along and help one another.

Amen.

*****

Beach Boy is on his way up to attend a visitation at the funeral home. Coach Ford died this week. Coach Ford was a middle school teacher and coach. He taught and/or coached all three of our children. They each have heart warming fun Coach Ford stories. He was beloved by many students and parents in our community. 12 years ago when Beach Boy returned to our community to teach/coach - it was alongside his former coach - Coach Ford. 

God rest your soul, Coach Ford. 

Peace. 

Let there be peace on earth, and let it begin with Mimi!!

Happy International Day of Peace!

And. 

Happy birthday to our very own Super Carrot, aka Mimi!

An historical, pictorial visit of the day...

Zero...

One...

Two...

 

Three...

 

Almost four...

 

Sending love to the girl that was born knowing how to accessorize!!

Peace.