When I was a youngster, every now and then a humorous story would be told about someone my parents knew, and invariably the tale ended with 'what a character!' This morning's offering will be about a 'character' who lives nearby to us now.
When we first moved here, we met Bob before we met his wife, who he called "Edith." It turns out that her real name is something else, but he called her 'Edith' because her voice and New York accent sounds exactly like Edith Bunker. She's a fun lady who likes to laugh and talented a painter/craftsperson. I liked her on the spot.
One year we were invited to a casual supper at their house during the Christmas season. During the evening, we heard a number of stories that had us laughing, but I'll share only this one for today. It must be read, thinking of the way Edith Bunker spoke, with her heavy accent and her high pitched voice.
Marilyn said, "When Bawb and oy lived in Floorida, Kath-a-leen, we built our own home, royte from the ground up. We built the wawls, we did it awl, but when we gowt to the roof, I said, "Bawb, don't ya think we awt t' hoyah somebuddy to do the roof?" Bawb said, 'no honey...we can do it. So, we cloymed up to the roof. " Her eyes got big and her brows raised up. "Oy thowt oy had awn good sneakahs, but oy didn't! I stahted t'slip! When I gowt to the cawnah, my jeans cawt awn a nail, and thayah oy was, Kath-a-leen! Hangin' thayah on the cawnah of the roof, with moy feet danglin'...yellin' "Bawb! Bawb!" She moved in closer to finish her story....'But Bawd didn't come! He fell awff the othah soide!"
I laugh every time I think of Marilyn and that story! 'What a character!'
Wednesday, November 30, 2011
Sunday, November 27, 2011
Busy Days...
We have a very active church group, and at this time of year, it seems even moreso. Although many others do, we don't always attend all of the events. We also have other social events to be a part of, family things going on, and sometimes we just need to 'be still'.
The calendar since Nov 14 looked like this:
14th....Church Senior group monthly supper, soup and sandwiches. Bring beverages, sandwiches,
or desserts.
18th....Fellowship supper at Sue's home. Turkey will be provided...bring sides or dessert.
20th....Dessert and coffee after evening service, Preacher appreciation night
22....All church Thanksgiving gathering....soup and sandwiches....bring your favorite soup,sandwiches,or dessert.
27.... Youth benefit spaghetti luncheon. Please bring desserts. Donations will be accepted and used for the youth group's 'adoption' of families for Christmas.
28....Dinner out for my birthday with family.
December hasn't even begun yet, and the calendar is full! There will be a Christmas play, three home parties, carolling, a weekend visit to Georgia, 4 NYers coming for a week, hubby's birthday, some riding around to look at lights (slip in one week of 'feet up', hahaha!!!) Then it's Christmas week and two Georgia families coming, some for a week,some for a day or two! Please take note that these events are all in addition to the normal church activities, and I've not mentioned the decorating of the house, the shopping that needs be finished with Mom, the wrapping, the baking and whatever else comes up!
I'm no Scrooge...not by any means...and I love everything about Christmas, but I'm losing my energy just writing this blog! I have no idea what I can cut out, and I don't want to miss a thing. Well, I guess there's January when I can actually put up my feet and breathe easily!)
The calendar since Nov 14 looked like this:
14th....Church Senior group monthly supper, soup and sandwiches. Bring beverages, sandwiches,
or desserts.
18th....Fellowship supper at Sue's home. Turkey will be provided...bring sides or dessert.
20th....Dessert and coffee after evening service, Preacher appreciation night
22....All church Thanksgiving gathering....soup and sandwiches....bring your favorite soup,sandwiches,or dessert.
27.... Youth benefit spaghetti luncheon. Please bring desserts. Donations will be accepted and used for the youth group's 'adoption' of families for Christmas.
28....Dinner out for my birthday with family.
December hasn't even begun yet, and the calendar is full! There will be a Christmas play, three home parties, carolling, a weekend visit to Georgia, 4 NYers coming for a week, hubby's birthday, some riding around to look at lights (slip in one week of 'feet up', hahaha!!!) Then it's Christmas week and two Georgia families coming, some for a week,some for a day or two! Please take note that these events are all in addition to the normal church activities, and I've not mentioned the decorating of the house, the shopping that needs be finished with Mom, the wrapping, the baking and whatever else comes up!
I'm no Scrooge...not by any means...and I love everything about Christmas, but I'm losing my energy just writing this blog! I have no idea what I can cut out, and I don't want to miss a thing. Well, I guess there's January when I can actually put up my feet and breathe easily!)
Saturday, November 26, 2011
Black Friday
Personally, I think the whole idea of getting up from a warm bed to fight gargantuan crowds for 'limited supply' of items on sale is NUTS!
That's my opinion, of course, and each of you are respected as people, despite whether or not you agree with me. So....did you run out to the sales....or did you avoid at all costs, like I did?
THAT is my complete blog entry for today! See ya soon!
That's my opinion, of course, and each of you are respected as people, despite whether or not you agree with me. So....did you run out to the sales....or did you avoid at all costs, like I did?
THAT is my complete blog entry for today! See ya soon!
Wednesday, November 23, 2011
Thankful...
Sometimes things happen in life that are confusing, unpleasant, and upsetting. I have a one on one relationship with God, and I'm so glad I do. I speak with Him all the time, not necessarily on my knees, but He's always close and I beleive He reads my mind and thoughts.
Recently a sweet family friend disappeared. It was hard to function during the four days that he was 'lost', with no word to anyone from him. We didn't know his whereabouts or his condition. Tough days, full of prayers and caring thoughts from others, as well as encouraging words to each other. We all felt a little 'stunned' and as if a gray cloud hung over us. Some of us found it difficult to think about a holiday of Thanksgiving when someone we loved was who-knows-where, and there was little motivation to cook and clean in preparation of a gathering.
Prayers kept flying heavenward. Though we did not know where our friend was, God always did. I am happy to say that our friend was found alive.... and our gratitude and relief is overwhelming. Today we make our preparations for our dinners and we raise our prayers in thanks to our God who heard our concerns, keeping our friend within His view, took compassion on us, and answered those prayers. A day of Thanksgiving for sure!
Recently a sweet family friend disappeared. It was hard to function during the four days that he was 'lost', with no word to anyone from him. We didn't know his whereabouts or his condition. Tough days, full of prayers and caring thoughts from others, as well as encouraging words to each other. We all felt a little 'stunned' and as if a gray cloud hung over us. Some of us found it difficult to think about a holiday of Thanksgiving when someone we loved was who-knows-where, and there was little motivation to cook and clean in preparation of a gathering.
Prayers kept flying heavenward. Though we did not know where our friend was, God always did. I am happy to say that our friend was found alive.... and our gratitude and relief is overwhelming. Today we make our preparations for our dinners and we raise our prayers in thanks to our God who heard our concerns, keeping our friend within His view, took compassion on us, and answered those prayers. A day of Thanksgiving for sure!
Monday, November 21, 2011
Caring For One Another...
Recently I read an article about a family in the local paper from my hometown. The mother of the young husband had just lost his mother. While the family and out of town family were away from thir rental home, attending the funeral in a nearby town, the house was destroyed by fire. The next day, rain poured into the building, further damaging items that might have been retrieved. Soon after, the wife was cleaning her father in law's house, and she fell on the stairs, badly bruising her body.
Sometimes when it rains, it pours", as the old saying goes. My heart went out to those kids and their youngsters. When I can find an address, I will send a donation to be used for replacement of their possessions. While I was reading facebook one day, I discovered that the young mother is the daughter of one of my friends. Further reading made me aware that many are stepping up to help this family, as it should be in any community.
In our own area, one of the first things we took note of was the wonderful spirit of giving when there are those. The TV station we most watch does 25 days of wishes, choosing one story per day and then provides that wish for a needy family. Churches join together each Christmas to collect and hand out warm clothing for those who may be homeless, or can't provide them for themselves. Our own church congregation is always collecting something for families in trouble. There have been collections of clothing and toys for grandparents who suddenly found themselves with custody of their four little grandchildren. One of our members is ill and cannot work, and his wife, too, is out of work...we've helped by providing non-perishable foods. We've taken 'love offerings' for two couples who have had fires in their homes. No one complains about being asked. We truly are taking care of one another, because we care!
In recent weeks, our neighborhood has had some vandalism, to the point where we've met together to discuss what we can do to keep our subdivision safe. Currently we are in the process of forming a real neighborhood watch. We've determined that it's up to us to stay aware and make others aware of any suspicious activity. We've made inquiries with the Sheriff's Dept. to inform ourselves of the best way to handle any crime, should we discover it, while we wait for the law enforcemnt to arrive. We expect a Deputy from the Dept. to speak at our next meeting. First and foremost, we are watching each other's homes, elderly residents and children in our subdivision. We are showing that we care, not only about our own property, but about other people and their safety.
That's what we're all here on earth for....to show others that we love them. Caring for people and their situations proves that love. Remember folks...the Golden Rule says, "Do unto others as you would have them do unto you." You never know when you might be on the receiving end, so you might want to give your caring today!
Sometimes when it rains, it pours", as the old saying goes. My heart went out to those kids and their youngsters. When I can find an address, I will send a donation to be used for replacement of their possessions. While I was reading facebook one day, I discovered that the young mother is the daughter of one of my friends. Further reading made me aware that many are stepping up to help this family, as it should be in any community.
In our own area, one of the first things we took note of was the wonderful spirit of giving when there are those. The TV station we most watch does 25 days of wishes, choosing one story per day and then provides that wish for a needy family. Churches join together each Christmas to collect and hand out warm clothing for those who may be homeless, or can't provide them for themselves. Our own church congregation is always collecting something for families in trouble. There have been collections of clothing and toys for grandparents who suddenly found themselves with custody of their four little grandchildren. One of our members is ill and cannot work, and his wife, too, is out of work...we've helped by providing non-perishable foods. We've taken 'love offerings' for two couples who have had fires in their homes. No one complains about being asked. We truly are taking care of one another, because we care!
In recent weeks, our neighborhood has had some vandalism, to the point where we've met together to discuss what we can do to keep our subdivision safe. Currently we are in the process of forming a real neighborhood watch. We've determined that it's up to us to stay aware and make others aware of any suspicious activity. We've made inquiries with the Sheriff's Dept. to inform ourselves of the best way to handle any crime, should we discover it, while we wait for the law enforcemnt to arrive. We expect a Deputy from the Dept. to speak at our next meeting. First and foremost, we are watching each other's homes, elderly residents and children in our subdivision. We are showing that we care, not only about our own property, but about other people and their safety.
That's what we're all here on earth for....to show others that we love them. Caring for people and their situations proves that love. Remember folks...the Golden Rule says, "Do unto others as you would have them do unto you." You never know when you might be on the receiving end, so you might want to give your caring today!
Sunday, November 20, 2011
Waiting...
My Mom has two sayings referring to 'waiting'. One is 'All good things come to those who wait.'
and the other is 'Anything worth having is worth waiting for.' It may be true, and last evening, I was reminded again of that.
On Nov 5, I wrote about missing the Canadian geese that we used to see all the time when we lived on Long Island, and how we rarely see them here in SC. I was wishing that I'd see a gaggle of them once again and longing to hear their tell-tale honking as they cross the sky on their familiar and invisible tracks.
Last night, while I was waiting for my husband to return to the car with our take-out Greek salad and Greek Pizza...I was people watching. All of a sudden, through the open window, I heard it. Loud honking! The sound of Canadian geese coming from somewhere behind the van! I opened the car door and looked into the dusky sky. I could hear them, but they were nowhere in sight.....for a minute. Then, there they were....all helter skelter, trying to gather themselves into some sort of formation. While I watched with complete pleasure, they failed at their attempt to figure out where there place was, and maybe even which was the 'head' goose. They flew in a ragged line across the path toward the East. I continued to watch and to listen, until they were a dim squiggle in the darkening sky.
As I sat, I remembered Mom's adages, and I also realized that God had heard my thoughts of missing the geese. I thought of the scripture verse in Psalms that says, "Delight yourself in the Lord and He will give you the desires of your heart." I believe that God cares, even about the little things, and though we may have to wait to see them, sometimes He blesses us with something that makes you realize that He hears even the silent desires of the heart. This blessing of the geese was definitely was worth waiting for!
and the other is 'Anything worth having is worth waiting for.' It may be true, and last evening, I was reminded again of that.
On Nov 5, I wrote about missing the Canadian geese that we used to see all the time when we lived on Long Island, and how we rarely see them here in SC. I was wishing that I'd see a gaggle of them once again and longing to hear their tell-tale honking as they cross the sky on their familiar and invisible tracks.
Last night, while I was waiting for my husband to return to the car with our take-out Greek salad and Greek Pizza...I was people watching. All of a sudden, through the open window, I heard it. Loud honking! The sound of Canadian geese coming from somewhere behind the van! I opened the car door and looked into the dusky sky. I could hear them, but they were nowhere in sight.....for a minute. Then, there they were....all helter skelter, trying to gather themselves into some sort of formation. While I watched with complete pleasure, they failed at their attempt to figure out where there place was, and maybe even which was the 'head' goose. They flew in a ragged line across the path toward the East. I continued to watch and to listen, until they were a dim squiggle in the darkening sky.
As I sat, I remembered Mom's adages, and I also realized that God had heard my thoughts of missing the geese. I thought of the scripture verse in Psalms that says, "Delight yourself in the Lord and He will give you the desires of your heart." I believe that God cares, even about the little things, and though we may have to wait to see them, sometimes He blesses us with something that makes you realize that He hears even the silent desires of the heart. This blessing of the geese was definitely was worth waiting for!
Saturday, November 19, 2011
More about Sewing...
Well, I got those valances done...two of them....but I'm not happy with them, so I'll begin again. I've got lots of the fabric, as I bought enough to do full length curtains for three windows, plus, and since I've decided to do valances for two windows in another room, there's extra to use for other things (or error!)
I remember learning to sew when I still lived at home. Actually, I think Mom started to teach me when I was about twelve years old. It was four years later, I believe, that I discovered had half an interest in it, and asked for help in creating something that I could wear. Of course, I had to be instructed all over again, as I hadn't touched a needle and thread since Mom's first attempt to show me how to use it. Well, no, that's not true. I had a wee bit of sewing in Home Ec. class in school, but as with most of my classes, I barely scraped through, without learning much of anything.
So...from that springboard, I dove head long into sewing things. I used Mom's machine until my 3rd year of marriage, when we bought that Montgomery Ward model. I was given a treadle machine when some friends moved away, but for the life of me, I couldn't make it work, and not too long afterward, I decided that it didn't need to take up space, and we took it to the dump. (Oh, foolish child bride that I was! It had no value to me then....therefore, it had no value!)
I sewed grannie dresses and tops for myself in the 1960's, and then maternity things, tiny clothing and blankets for my babies, and made stuffed animals and dolls for them as they grew old enough to play. I made school clothes, then graduated to patchwork quilts and sewn items to sell. I stopped sewing clothing after awhile, as the kids wanted to wear things like other kids in their classes wore...and I was never good at making clothing fit me correctly. After awhile, I just put that machine away....and didn't drag it out any more. My girls didn't want to learn to sew then, however two of them learned on their own when they got older, and are quite good at it. The other two still can't sew a button on!
Today, I will once again cut and pin and stitch, and hopefully I'll have better luck than I did yesterday!
I remember learning to sew when I still lived at home. Actually, I think Mom started to teach me when I was about twelve years old. It was four years later, I believe, that I discovered had half an interest in it, and asked for help in creating something that I could wear. Of course, I had to be instructed all over again, as I hadn't touched a needle and thread since Mom's first attempt to show me how to use it. Well, no, that's not true. I had a wee bit of sewing in Home Ec. class in school, but as with most of my classes, I barely scraped through, without learning much of anything.
So...from that springboard, I dove head long into sewing things. I used Mom's machine until my 3rd year of marriage, when we bought that Montgomery Ward model. I was given a treadle machine when some friends moved away, but for the life of me, I couldn't make it work, and not too long afterward, I decided that it didn't need to take up space, and we took it to the dump. (Oh, foolish child bride that I was! It had no value to me then....therefore, it had no value!)
I sewed grannie dresses and tops for myself in the 1960's, and then maternity things, tiny clothing and blankets for my babies, and made stuffed animals and dolls for them as they grew old enough to play. I made school clothes, then graduated to patchwork quilts and sewn items to sell. I stopped sewing clothing after awhile, as the kids wanted to wear things like other kids in their classes wore...and I was never good at making clothing fit me correctly. After awhile, I just put that machine away....and didn't drag it out any more. My girls didn't want to learn to sew then, however two of them learned on their own when they got older, and are quite good at it. The other two still can't sew a button on!
Today, I will once again cut and pin and stitch, and hopefully I'll have better luck than I did yesterday!
Friday, November 18, 2011
Sew Today...
That's my mantra on this Friday morning. I want to make new valances for the living room...and for the kitchen/dining room too, eventually. The fabric has been waiting there quite long enough! I don't know how the time gets away from me, but every day just flies by and I find myself busy, but not getting done what I'd set out to do.
I haven't sewn in years. I've done some hand sewing and mending, but haven't bothered to drag the machine out for anything serious. It's time I did! When I was younger and my kids were little, I used to stay up until all hours sewing things...clothing, doll clothes, stuffed toys, curtains and other household things. I made quilt tops, pillows, and pot holders. It seems as if that old second-hand sewing machine we bought for $26 in 1969 (an old Montgomery Ward portable that weighs a ton!) was never idle. It's being lent to Mom these days, though it sits idle there more often than not. Over the years, it certainly has been a faithful friend to both of us.
Todays project will be sewn on my newer model....a Singer zig zag which I bought brand new at a yard sale about ten years ago...for $25. I've used it some, but not much. I prefer the older one, mostly because it responds to my foot on the pedal with gusto! That baby can sew at least twice the stitches in the same time that the other one pokes along. It drives me crazy. When I sew, I want the item finished in one sitting. I don't like unfinished projects.
So...that is my goal for the day...to make, and finish at least two valances! What are your plans for this cold November day?
I haven't sewn in years. I've done some hand sewing and mending, but haven't bothered to drag the machine out for anything serious. It's time I did! When I was younger and my kids were little, I used to stay up until all hours sewing things...clothing, doll clothes, stuffed toys, curtains and other household things. I made quilt tops, pillows, and pot holders. It seems as if that old second-hand sewing machine we bought for $26 in 1969 (an old Montgomery Ward portable that weighs a ton!) was never idle. It's being lent to Mom these days, though it sits idle there more often than not. Over the years, it certainly has been a faithful friend to both of us.
Todays project will be sewn on my newer model....a Singer zig zag which I bought brand new at a yard sale about ten years ago...for $25. I've used it some, but not much. I prefer the older one, mostly because it responds to my foot on the pedal with gusto! That baby can sew at least twice the stitches in the same time that the other one pokes along. It drives me crazy. When I sew, I want the item finished in one sitting. I don't like unfinished projects.
So...that is my goal for the day...to make, and finish at least two valances! What are your plans for this cold November day?
Thursday, November 17, 2011
An Anniversary
Yesterday marked the 6th anniversary of the closing on this house. Time sure does fly! I remember that day...November 16, 2005. We met our realtor at his office, and followed him to Greenville to the law office, as we had no idea then where anything was. We had a short, quick time of signing papers, and then the keys were placed in our hands, and suddenly we were the owners of two homes! Our realtor, who has become a friend since then, gave me a shopping bag with the gift of a navy throw with the SC state symbol on it....a palm tree and a crescent moon. After a hug, and a short chat, he was off to an appointment.
We made our way back to the house after having lunch at some forgotten spot. We went to visit with my brothers and hung out there for awhile. Then we went out to dinner to celebrate. We had no furniture to place into the house, but we stayed there that very first night anyway. We pulled our sleeping bags from the van, brought in our suitcase and toiletries, and made a bed on the living room carpet. It wasn't extremely comfortable, for sure, but we wanted to stay in our new house!
Our stay was short, as we needed to get back to our hometown for our family Thanksgiving, my birthday, Mike's birthday and Christmas. Over the next year, we made several visits to the house, taking enough 'essentials' with us for some 'glorified' camping in our home when we went south. We finally decided to move bag and baggage and make our new farmhouse our home. It's fun to remember those first days and nights here, to open our home to our family and friends for holidays and visits, and it's good to wake each day to all that awaits us. Nobody can see into a crystal ball and predict tomorrow, but we're happy to take it just one day at a time here in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, just as we did for over 50 years in my old hometown near the sea.
Life is good. It doesn't matter the altitude wherein you live, what matters is the attitude that lives within.
We made our way back to the house after having lunch at some forgotten spot. We went to visit with my brothers and hung out there for awhile. Then we went out to dinner to celebrate. We had no furniture to place into the house, but we stayed there that very first night anyway. We pulled our sleeping bags from the van, brought in our suitcase and toiletries, and made a bed on the living room carpet. It wasn't extremely comfortable, for sure, but we wanted to stay in our new house!
Our stay was short, as we needed to get back to our hometown for our family Thanksgiving, my birthday, Mike's birthday and Christmas. Over the next year, we made several visits to the house, taking enough 'essentials' with us for some 'glorified' camping in our home when we went south. We finally decided to move bag and baggage and make our new farmhouse our home. It's fun to remember those first days and nights here, to open our home to our family and friends for holidays and visits, and it's good to wake each day to all that awaits us. Nobody can see into a crystal ball and predict tomorrow, but we're happy to take it just one day at a time here in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, just as we did for over 50 years in my old hometown near the sea.
Life is good. It doesn't matter the altitude wherein you live, what matters is the attitude that lives within.
Wednesday, November 16, 2011
Mid-Week and Mid-Month
Here we are smack in the middle of the week...and the month. What happened to the last two weeks? They came and went so fast, I can't even remember what I did during those days!
We have finally put up the chandelier over the dining area table. That baby puts out some light...400 watts, currently. (no pun intended!) Yesterday we bought a dimmer switch, which will allow us to control that glaring fixture, but it will also afford us the light if we're doing something where we need that much. (I can't imagine needing that much for any reason, but...it's there.) Yes, we might have opted for small watt bulbs in the fixture which holds ten candles, but the day I was shopping for bulbs locally, there was nothing smaller in the candle bulbs than 40 watts. I knew it was too much, but couldn't find anything less that day. Since then, I've found 7-60 watt ones and flickering ones and frosted ones and clear ones and colored ones. We'll make do with the switch, I think.
Also, believe it or not, the shutters are now hung and making me very happy! They didn't work in the kitchen/dining room where I wanted to put them, because on one window they'd have covered half of a triple light switch and on the other side, there's a cabinet that would cover half of the shutter, unless I chose to move the albatross cabinet....and I didn't. So, they are hung on the living room windows, and I'm fine with that.
I think today I'll make some new valances with that black and cream checked fabric I bought ages ago. I'd like to get them done before the kids get here. I'd also like to get my cards made, but I fear that there won't be any home-made ones this year.
I'm going to pull all of the beachy theme stuff out of the half-bath, too. I've got some other things I'll put up in there...some old quilt squares that I'll frame, and a small ladder shelf. The guest rooms are ready, I just need to vacuum them again before anyone uses them.
Meanwhile...we've done a mini- grocery shopping. Some things were on sale this week, so we took advantage of that...turkey, pot roast and the fattest pork chops I've ever seen made their way into the basket with other needful items. We're making some headway.
So...if I'm going to make any more of that (headway), I'd better wave good-bye and get busy in some way other than dancing on the keyboard with my fingers! 'Til next time...
We have finally put up the chandelier over the dining area table. That baby puts out some light...400 watts, currently. (no pun intended!) Yesterday we bought a dimmer switch, which will allow us to control that glaring fixture, but it will also afford us the light if we're doing something where we need that much. (I can't imagine needing that much for any reason, but...it's there.) Yes, we might have opted for small watt bulbs in the fixture which holds ten candles, but the day I was shopping for bulbs locally, there was nothing smaller in the candle bulbs than 40 watts. I knew it was too much, but couldn't find anything less that day. Since then, I've found 7-60 watt ones and flickering ones and frosted ones and clear ones and colored ones. We'll make do with the switch, I think.
Also, believe it or not, the shutters are now hung and making me very happy! They didn't work in the kitchen/dining room where I wanted to put them, because on one window they'd have covered half of a triple light switch and on the other side, there's a cabinet that would cover half of the shutter, unless I chose to move the albatross cabinet....and I didn't. So, they are hung on the living room windows, and I'm fine with that.
I think today I'll make some new valances with that black and cream checked fabric I bought ages ago. I'd like to get them done before the kids get here. I'd also like to get my cards made, but I fear that there won't be any home-made ones this year.
I'm going to pull all of the beachy theme stuff out of the half-bath, too. I've got some other things I'll put up in there...some old quilt squares that I'll frame, and a small ladder shelf. The guest rooms are ready, I just need to vacuum them again before anyone uses them.
Meanwhile...we've done a mini- grocery shopping. Some things were on sale this week, so we took advantage of that...turkey, pot roast and the fattest pork chops I've ever seen made their way into the basket with other needful items. We're making some headway.
So...if I'm going to make any more of that (headway), I'd better wave good-bye and get busy in some way other than dancing on the keyboard with my fingers! 'Til next time...
Tuesday, November 15, 2011
Christmas is Coming...
Gosh...it's so close, and I'm running behind on so many things. I'm not ready for Thanksgiving, let alone Christmas. Generally by this time of year, I've got all of my gift shopping finished and waiting for wrapping. I also am well under way, if not finished, with making all the cards that will be sent or taken to church to offer my greetings for Christmas. Not this year.
BUT! In the corner of the living room stands our new artificial Christmas tree! Yeah, yeah, I know...so please don't scold me about it being too early! It definitely IS, but there's a reason, you see. Though we always wait until, at least, the second week of December to begin decorating, this year the New York kids are coming! I want to have the decorating finished before they arrive, since they can't be here for Christmas itself. We'll look more festive around here and the exchange of our gifts three weeks early will feel more like Christmas.
So...there it stands, bare naked, and looking somewhat out of place. But I've got other things to do, and guests coming for Thanksgiving too....so I've got to get things done as early as I can, since my back doesn't allow for long stints of standing and doing. (My back is aged...and so are my feet....but let it be known, I AM NOT OLD!) Since much of what has to be done requires a good amount of time on my feet, I'll make preparations when I can, regardless of how silly it looks at the time.
I think I should also do a little early baking and freeze the cookies and breads. I will probably not do as much as I have in the past, but I'd like to have some of the baking finished before the girls arrive in early December. Menu planning too, is already underway....not just for Thanksgiving, but for the ten days the kids will be here. We may even shop at the same time for some of the things that will keep in the freezer or pantry for the Christmas meal.
It's such a busy time of year which starts very soon, so forgive me, if you will, for starting so early!
BUT! In the corner of the living room stands our new artificial Christmas tree! Yeah, yeah, I know...so please don't scold me about it being too early! It definitely IS, but there's a reason, you see. Though we always wait until, at least, the second week of December to begin decorating, this year the New York kids are coming! I want to have the decorating finished before they arrive, since they can't be here for Christmas itself. We'll look more festive around here and the exchange of our gifts three weeks early will feel more like Christmas.
So...there it stands, bare naked, and looking somewhat out of place. But I've got other things to do, and guests coming for Thanksgiving too....so I've got to get things done as early as I can, since my back doesn't allow for long stints of standing and doing. (My back is aged...and so are my feet....but let it be known, I AM NOT OLD!) Since much of what has to be done requires a good amount of time on my feet, I'll make preparations when I can, regardless of how silly it looks at the time.
I think I should also do a little early baking and freeze the cookies and breads. I will probably not do as much as I have in the past, but I'd like to have some of the baking finished before the girls arrive in early December. Menu planning too, is already underway....not just for Thanksgiving, but for the ten days the kids will be here. We may even shop at the same time for some of the things that will keep in the freezer or pantry for the Christmas meal.
It's such a busy time of year which starts very soon, so forgive me, if you will, for starting so early!
Saturday, November 12, 2011
Disrespect
If there's anything that bothers me about people these days, it's disrespect. I was taught, and I taught my kids, to respect elders, which meant, among other things, not to talk back no matter how wrong I felt they might be. I was taught to keep quiet if I couldn't say something nice about anyone, including my peers. I was taught to realize that things which belonged to others were not mine to take. That's all a matter of respect.
These days people don't seem give one iota about any of that. Kids sass their parents, disobey them without regard of consequences, don't pay attention to teachers or others who are older. They roll their eyes, they walk away, they just don't seem to know the meaning of respect. It goes beyond that too, as far up as the law enforcement and the government of our country.
It seems that the laws are written for those who will obey them. Criminals don't care about any of them. They do what they do, and I think many of them know full-well that they will get a slap across the knuckles, and they'll be out on the street in no time. Even people who have taken lives and ruined so many other lives in the process, don't get punishment enough for their law-breaking, in my opinion.
As for the government of our country, it used to be that people disagreed, and maybe they said so, but they knew that the President was an office to be respected, even if you couldn't respect the decisions or policies of the man in office. He was voted into that position by the people, and most people recognized that, even if their 'guy' didn't win the election. They'd ride it out until next time. Now we have uprisings and sit-ins and demonstrations of all kinds, which only seems to feed the fire in others. I haven't got a problem with peaceful demonstrations so that those in authority can 'hear' the voice of the people, but more often than not, these gatherings cause more problems in other areas.
On a much smaller scale, our neighborhood is currently dealing with some issues of vandleism. There have been GPS units stolen, an attempted car theft, scratching of a brand new car and some mailbox bashing. We have decided that we need to organize a neighborhood watch situation, in order to prevent more of this kind of disrespect in our area. Our meeting will be held soon...and hopefully we will be successful in our efforts. It won't stop the disrespect, but at least it may move on to another place. Law breakers will always find somewhere to commit their crimes and show their disregard of authority. I wish it was otherwise, but it isn't....and it galls me.
These days people don't seem give one iota about any of that. Kids sass their parents, disobey them without regard of consequences, don't pay attention to teachers or others who are older. They roll their eyes, they walk away, they just don't seem to know the meaning of respect. It goes beyond that too, as far up as the law enforcement and the government of our country.
It seems that the laws are written for those who will obey them. Criminals don't care about any of them. They do what they do, and I think many of them know full-well that they will get a slap across the knuckles, and they'll be out on the street in no time. Even people who have taken lives and ruined so many other lives in the process, don't get punishment enough for their law-breaking, in my opinion.
As for the government of our country, it used to be that people disagreed, and maybe they said so, but they knew that the President was an office to be respected, even if you couldn't respect the decisions or policies of the man in office. He was voted into that position by the people, and most people recognized that, even if their 'guy' didn't win the election. They'd ride it out until next time. Now we have uprisings and sit-ins and demonstrations of all kinds, which only seems to feed the fire in others. I haven't got a problem with peaceful demonstrations so that those in authority can 'hear' the voice of the people, but more often than not, these gatherings cause more problems in other areas.
On a much smaller scale, our neighborhood is currently dealing with some issues of vandleism. There have been GPS units stolen, an attempted car theft, scratching of a brand new car and some mailbox bashing. We have decided that we need to organize a neighborhood watch situation, in order to prevent more of this kind of disrespect in our area. Our meeting will be held soon...and hopefully we will be successful in our efforts. It won't stop the disrespect, but at least it may move on to another place. Law breakers will always find somewhere to commit their crimes and show their disregard of authority. I wish it was otherwise, but it isn't....and it galls me.
Thursday, November 10, 2011
I Don't Have A Clue...
What to write about today, so bear with me as I muddle my way through this. Back in the days when I went to a writing group, the moderator always told us to write something every day, no matter what it was, and not to worry about how good it is. So...this looks like it might be one of those efforts.
I woke to rain, and by the time my coffee had dripped down through the system and made it's way to the pot, it had stopped. There was a wet, drippy fog outside....not thick, but definitely there. I'm one of those people who likes fog. Some people don't, I guess, but it's just kind of eerie and interesting to me. I'm not crazy about standing in rain, especially downpours, I'd much rather be inside, listening to it pound on the roof and window panes. But a wet fog doesn't bother me.
When I went to turn off the coffee pot, I stood at the kitchen window and watched the foggy air dissipate. At the risk of sounding like Andy Rooney, I might ask, "Where does fog go, anyway?" It's a pretty easy question to answer....it evaporates. Once the air was light and fog free, I poured my coffee and went to watch the morning local news.
There wasn't much of anything to interest me there, as usual. Traffic reports, weather map showing rain in our area but making it's way eastward, news that had been reported last weekend about three criminals that had been caught in Virginia. It must have been a slow news day or something. The reporters were joking and teasing each other, and I just waited it out until the Early Show came on.
I guess it is a slow news day all around.... this blog entry is boring...even to me. I hope your day is more exciting than my early morning was, and my blog is! On the other hand, sometimes boring beats excitement hands down, depending up the type of hooplah going on. Let me rephrase my wish for you... I hope your day is full of FUN excitement!
I woke to rain, and by the time my coffee had dripped down through the system and made it's way to the pot, it had stopped. There was a wet, drippy fog outside....not thick, but definitely there. I'm one of those people who likes fog. Some people don't, I guess, but it's just kind of eerie and interesting to me. I'm not crazy about standing in rain, especially downpours, I'd much rather be inside, listening to it pound on the roof and window panes. But a wet fog doesn't bother me.
When I went to turn off the coffee pot, I stood at the kitchen window and watched the foggy air dissipate. At the risk of sounding like Andy Rooney, I might ask, "Where does fog go, anyway?" It's a pretty easy question to answer....it evaporates. Once the air was light and fog free, I poured my coffee and went to watch the morning local news.
There wasn't much of anything to interest me there, as usual. Traffic reports, weather map showing rain in our area but making it's way eastward, news that had been reported last weekend about three criminals that had been caught in Virginia. It must have been a slow news day or something. The reporters were joking and teasing each other, and I just waited it out until the Early Show came on.
I guess it is a slow news day all around.... this blog entry is boring...even to me. I hope your day is more exciting than my early morning was, and my blog is! On the other hand, sometimes boring beats excitement hands down, depending up the type of hooplah going on. Let me rephrase my wish for you... I hope your day is full of FUN excitement!
Tuesday, November 8, 2011
Day Trip
There's never a time when we spend that day together away from home, that I don't enjoy. Today was a lovely Fall day, we were comfortable wearing t-shirts, and we decided to take a ride so that we could take a look at a Victorian home that is for sale. Our plan was to look at it from the street, and decide whether or not to make an appointment with the owner to see the interior at a later date.
We looked on the internet for directions...then we looked at our atlas. The area is only 29 miles from us, but we haven't been over that way in the five years we've lived here. So, confident that we could find the place with little trouble, we headed to the southeast on a country road. We were right. The house was easily found. We checked it out from the street, looking for flaws. It appears to need a new roofing in the near future. The chimney brick is looking a little crumbly at the top, which makes us wonder if the chimneys are workable and in good condition. There are outhouses on the 4plus acres, and big trees, oaks and pines and in the rear there are apple trees, apple-pear trees, pomegranites and pecan trees. There is a double arched front door, old windows with beautiful trim, a front porch and gingerbread trim.
I know from the listing photos that the interior is intriguing. The walls are horizontal boards, some painted, some still natural wood,darkened with age. The floors are all wood...except the large kitchen, which is tiled. There are old light fixtures, a center hall, 8 fireplaces. Oh...what a dream it would be to live in such a place...!
However, even with the updated electrical wiring, plumbing, town water, newer gas heat/air, blown in insulation, what other work might be needed? I've always loved old houses....but in the back of my mind, I keep hearing my Dad's words..."Old houses, old problems. New houses, new problems." Now the question is, will I heed Daddy's words as a warning, or will we take the plunge and go for it?
I guess there's no way of knowing what lies ahead in any realm. I'm not sure that we two characters are wanting to bite off a 'project' at this point in our lives. But, I think we'll go and see the inside of the place anyway. How else will we know if we even think we'd want to live in such an old house? It certainly won't be the first house we've walked through, loved, and turned away from for one or another reasons. The owner is aware that we weren't even looking for a place when I stumbled across the listing on-line, so she won't be surprised if we don't go ahead with a deal.
Excuse me while I go email her. Stay tuned.
We looked on the internet for directions...then we looked at our atlas. The area is only 29 miles from us, but we haven't been over that way in the five years we've lived here. So, confident that we could find the place with little trouble, we headed to the southeast on a country road. We were right. The house was easily found. We checked it out from the street, looking for flaws. It appears to need a new roofing in the near future. The chimney brick is looking a little crumbly at the top, which makes us wonder if the chimneys are workable and in good condition. There are outhouses on the 4plus acres, and big trees, oaks and pines and in the rear there are apple trees, apple-pear trees, pomegranites and pecan trees. There is a double arched front door, old windows with beautiful trim, a front porch and gingerbread trim.
I know from the listing photos that the interior is intriguing. The walls are horizontal boards, some painted, some still natural wood,darkened with age. The floors are all wood...except the large kitchen, which is tiled. There are old light fixtures, a center hall, 8 fireplaces. Oh...what a dream it would be to live in such a place...!
However, even with the updated electrical wiring, plumbing, town water, newer gas heat/air, blown in insulation, what other work might be needed? I've always loved old houses....but in the back of my mind, I keep hearing my Dad's words..."Old houses, old problems. New houses, new problems." Now the question is, will I heed Daddy's words as a warning, or will we take the plunge and go for it?
I guess there's no way of knowing what lies ahead in any realm. I'm not sure that we two characters are wanting to bite off a 'project' at this point in our lives. But, I think we'll go and see the inside of the place anyway. How else will we know if we even think we'd want to live in such an old house? It certainly won't be the first house we've walked through, loved, and turned away from for one or another reasons. The owner is aware that we weren't even looking for a place when I stumbled across the listing on-line, so she won't be surprised if we don't go ahead with a deal.
Excuse me while I go email her. Stay tuned.
Sunday, November 6, 2011
SC Fall Days
We are enjoying the sunny, clear, dry weather of Autumn. The days are still reaching into the high 60's and the nights are nearly twenty degrees lower. We wake to frost on the grass, and sometimes even icy windshields on our cars. But it is beautiful weather to live in! It's comfortable outside with just a sweatshirt or a light jacket. Since I despise heavy jackets and constricting clothing, I'm grateful for this time before those days come.
I've been reminiscing about the weather back home in NY. It won't be long before the town pond will be wearing a thin layer of ice in the early mornings. People will have to turn the cars on to let them warm up for a few minutes to be comfortable inside, and the defroster will have to be set to thaw the windshields.
The children will be standing at their bus stops and their breath will be seen in the air. It is a different type of Fall in that northern area than what we experience here.
Oh, our turn will come, too....but it is slower in arriving, and shorter in its staying. Winter comes fast once the weather turns cold here, but like Fall, the Wintertime is shorter, too, than it is in the north where I used to live. Here we have 2 months of cool, 2 months of cold, 4 months of warm and 4 months of HOT! My favorite months are those temperate ones, where short or long sleeved shirts are just enough. Too hot is not my favorite, and I spend a good deal of time inside where it's cooler. The cold has a way of driving me inside, as well, to huddle with a warm cup of something, a down throw and a pair of thick socks.
It is said that' we're never satisfied' as humans. Maybe that's true of some, but right now, I'm quite satisfied with these November days. I hope you all are enjoying yours as much as I am delighting myself in ours!
I've been reminiscing about the weather back home in NY. It won't be long before the town pond will be wearing a thin layer of ice in the early mornings. People will have to turn the cars on to let them warm up for a few minutes to be comfortable inside, and the defroster will have to be set to thaw the windshields.
The children will be standing at their bus stops and their breath will be seen in the air. It is a different type of Fall in that northern area than what we experience here.
Oh, our turn will come, too....but it is slower in arriving, and shorter in its staying. Winter comes fast once the weather turns cold here, but like Fall, the Wintertime is shorter, too, than it is in the north where I used to live. Here we have 2 months of cool, 2 months of cold, 4 months of warm and 4 months of HOT! My favorite months are those temperate ones, where short or long sleeved shirts are just enough. Too hot is not my favorite, and I spend a good deal of time inside where it's cooler. The cold has a way of driving me inside, as well, to huddle with a warm cup of something, a down throw and a pair of thick socks.
It is said that' we're never satisfied' as humans. Maybe that's true of some, but right now, I'm quite satisfied with these November days. I hope you all are enjoying yours as much as I am delighting myself in ours!
Saturday, November 5, 2011
Autumn, Not Forgotten
The corn fields stood green, not so long ago, in tall, even rows. Now, the stalks are dry and have turned to beige and brown. They lean against each other, helter skelter, as their silk waves in the cool air. Soon they will be mowed down, chopped and tilled into the soil as organic matter, as has been done in adjoining fields.
Those mowed fields appear barren, but there is food enough there for the Canadian geese who come. Their huge conventions take place in the early morning, and again at dusk, beneath steel-gray skies. They eat their fill before taking off for ponds or nests.
They fly amid the clouds, forming deep V formations, honking as they go. They follow their leader, across the same paths, to and fro, every day until it's time for them to move on. Beyond the brilliant leaves they go, across the miles, toward the south.
Perhaps they will come to winter in South Carolina. I hear that they do that, but we've seen them only on our friend's pond in their back yard farmland. The geese are something hearing in our skies. We used to watch them from our rear deck when we lived in New York, but they've not made an appearance in our area. We miss those geese!
Those mowed fields appear barren, but there is food enough there for the Canadian geese who come. Their huge conventions take place in the early morning, and again at dusk, beneath steel-gray skies. They eat their fill before taking off for ponds or nests.
They fly amid the clouds, forming deep V formations, honking as they go. They follow their leader, across the same paths, to and fro, every day until it's time for them to move on. Beyond the brilliant leaves they go, across the miles, toward the south.
Perhaps they will come to winter in South Carolina. I hear that they do that, but we've seen them only on our friend's pond in their back yard farmland. The geese are something hearing in our skies. We used to watch them from our rear deck when we lived in New York, but they've not made an appearance in our area. We miss those geese!
Thursday, November 3, 2011
Stew Under Cover
Tonight's menu is 'stew under cover'...my new name for homemade beef pot pie. Veddy,veddy easy, my friends. I used left-over pot roast and accompanying vegetables (potatoes, carrots and onions.) Add some chopped celery if you like, sweet green peas, any other vegetables that you care to have in there. Make gravy, using the pot roast broth...place in a crust pie shell and cover with a top crust. Bake according to your crust recipe until crust is golden. Let stand for 5 minutes before cutting...and eat!
Add a mixed green salad...and ta dah! Dinner is served! Dessert of Apple Brown Betty would be great, if there's room in your tummy by then. I tend to doubt it, myself!
Add a mixed green salad...and ta dah! Dinner is served! Dessert of Apple Brown Betty would be great, if there's room in your tummy by then. I tend to doubt it, myself!
Wednesday, November 2, 2011
Yesterday...
Finally I feel that I've accomplished something in a day! I got my husband up early and while he readied himself to join the living, I puttered around doing little chores. I searched, too, high and low, for two envelopes. One had two receipts in it and one was full of information for Medicare Complete. Both were Mom's, and I was beside myself that I couldn't locate them....and still haven't. I probably picked them up with my paid bills and put them in the pile to be filed. I was about to check that when Mom rang the doorbell with a couple of checks to be written before the mail lady arrived.
By the time Mike was ready to leave, at noon, to finish some yard work at the Preacher's house, I was ready to sit and create.Before I could do that, though, I prepared the vegetables and the pot roast for the slow-cooker, and then made myself some lunch. Ahhhh...with a full stomach, I was good to go. I gathered my sewing 'stuff' and plunked myself down in 'my' corner of the couch. I turned on Pandora radio on my computer, and began working on some ornaments.....snowmen.
I cut out a couple of bodies and embroidered their faces on them. Since I'm attempting to find something that will suit the ornament exchange with some primitive decorating friends, I took the snowmen to the kitchen and soaked them for a minute in the coffee that was left in the pot from the morning. I guess that will all work fine, except those snowmen are just a tad smaller than I hoped they'd be. Then I decided that I needed to change gears. I began cutting out and embroidering just the faces of snowmen instead. That seemed to work better. I dyed them with the coffee as well, and am much happier with those. They're each placed on a wooden spoon handle, standing in a couple of glasses, on my kitchen window sill.
In the end, I'm not sure whether either group of dirty snow men will head to my 14 friends...but if they do, I'm more than a third of the way there. If not, they will go on my own 'prim' tree, or hang from a garland from the old mantle piece. In that case, I've got to keep thinking, keep experimenting, keep producing ideas. Last night my hands were so stiff from all the hand sewing. I do have a machine...two, in fact...but if you're going 'prim', then go all the way and do things the way they did it way back then. But, at least, at the end of the day, I feel as if I accomplished something in the making of 3 bodies and 6 heads.
Oh! By the way, did I ever tell you that I finished those shutters?! Yes...I did! Now I'm waiting to get them hung! Today's big project will take me to the hardware store for some hanging things, and some more paint...black and a quart of colonial red, if you please. There's a ladder awaiting my attention....
By the time Mike was ready to leave, at noon, to finish some yard work at the Preacher's house, I was ready to sit and create.Before I could do that, though, I prepared the vegetables and the pot roast for the slow-cooker, and then made myself some lunch. Ahhhh...with a full stomach, I was good to go. I gathered my sewing 'stuff' and plunked myself down in 'my' corner of the couch. I turned on Pandora radio on my computer, and began working on some ornaments.....snowmen.
I cut out a couple of bodies and embroidered their faces on them. Since I'm attempting to find something that will suit the ornament exchange with some primitive decorating friends, I took the snowmen to the kitchen and soaked them for a minute in the coffee that was left in the pot from the morning. I guess that will all work fine, except those snowmen are just a tad smaller than I hoped they'd be. Then I decided that I needed to change gears. I began cutting out and embroidering just the faces of snowmen instead. That seemed to work better. I dyed them with the coffee as well, and am much happier with those. They're each placed on a wooden spoon handle, standing in a couple of glasses, on my kitchen window sill.
In the end, I'm not sure whether either group of dirty snow men will head to my 14 friends...but if they do, I'm more than a third of the way there. If not, they will go on my own 'prim' tree, or hang from a garland from the old mantle piece. In that case, I've got to keep thinking, keep experimenting, keep producing ideas. Last night my hands were so stiff from all the hand sewing. I do have a machine...two, in fact...but if you're going 'prim', then go all the way and do things the way they did it way back then. But, at least, at the end of the day, I feel as if I accomplished something in the making of 3 bodies and 6 heads.
Oh! By the way, did I ever tell you that I finished those shutters?! Yes...I did! Now I'm waiting to get them hung! Today's big project will take me to the hardware store for some hanging things, and some more paint...black and a quart of colonial red, if you please. There's a ladder awaiting my attention....
Tuesday, November 1, 2011
Don't Mess With A Good Thing...
There are some recipes that shouldn't be toyed with, in my humble opinion. Oh, I know. How will you ever know if it works if you don't add a little of this, or a little of that, to a mixture? Well, my thinking is, 'Why do you have to know something else works, when you're original batch is proven?"
My favorite homemade cookie is a good, old-fashioned chocolate chip one. It doesn't need to be marred by substituting peanut butter, for the butter, or butter for the Crisco, for that matter. I don't want you to add raisins to the batch. I don't need the nuts, but don't mind too much if they are thrown in. There are some people who seem, lately, to think that pumpkin is the perfect addition to chocolate chip cookie dough. Not me. Don't mess with a good thing!
While I understand that some recipes are enhanced by the addition of spices or removal of some ingredient or another, and I know,too, that everyone's taste buds are different, there are some things that can't be improved upon. Sometimes simpler is best.
My favorite homemade cookie is a good, old-fashioned chocolate chip one. It doesn't need to be marred by substituting peanut butter, for the butter, or butter for the Crisco, for that matter. I don't want you to add raisins to the batch. I don't need the nuts, but don't mind too much if they are thrown in. There are some people who seem, lately, to think that pumpkin is the perfect addition to chocolate chip cookie dough. Not me. Don't mess with a good thing!
While I understand that some recipes are enhanced by the addition of spices or removal of some ingredient or another, and I know,too, that everyone's taste buds are different, there are some things that can't be improved upon. Sometimes simpler is best.
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