~Da Grandma

Proud to Be a Tennesssean!

2010-05-20T23:53:00.002-05:00

This is Tennessee by Brent HighShare
Today at 11:05pm

VOLUNTEERS ADD NEW CHAPTER TO STORIED HISTORY

by Brent High

On May 1st and 2nd of 2010 a historic amount of rain, as much as 17 inches, fell on middle Tennessee and the city of Nashville in less than 48 hours. Historians are using terms like “thousand year flood” to describe what took place here. The Cumberland River, Nashville’s main waterway, crested at just over 51 feet, flooding iconic structures including the Grand Ole Opry, LP Field and Bridgestone Arena where the Tennessee Titans and Nashville Predators play, Country Music Hall of Fame and the Opryland Hotel and Convention Centeter. The water rose so much, so fast and in places water has never been seen that thousands had to be rescued by boat. Dozens lost their lives. Thousands of homeowners lost everything they had. Thousands more are now trying to salvage what’s left. Most had no flood insurance because before May 1st they didn’t need it where they lived. Early estimates are that the damage will top $1 billion and this storm will go down as the most devastating non-hurricane event in American history.

This is Tennessee.

It’s Monday, May 3rd. The rain has stopped, finally. What happens next shouldn’t come as a surprise. Almost instinctively, after a long night of restlessness, volunteers spring into action. It’s in their blood. They’ve been trained to do so by their parents and grandparents. From Waverly to Cookeville, Winchester to Cross Plains and in the capital city of Nashville the sights and sounds are the same.

Without being asked, fishermen launch their boats into the muddy soup, joining the rescue efforts. Business owners and supervisors tell their employees to take the day off and jump in and help wherever they can. Neighbors, many of whom helped empty entire houses in brigade fashion the night before, transition into cleanup mode. Sump pumps and generators whirr. Drywall, carpet and ruined floors are ripped out. Elderly ladies gather at the church to make lunches for workers. Teenagers distribute bottled water. Pickup trucks, trailers and storage units are loaded with what could be salvaged. Photos and documents are spread out in the sun to dry. Wads of $20 bills are slid into pockets of those affected.

Checks are written. Hugs are given. Prayers are said. Tears are shed.

This is Tennessee.

Almost 200 years ago Tennessee first earned the nickname “Volunteer State.” In 1812 More than 2,000 Tennesseans volunteered to fight for Andrew Jackson and were the main part of Jackson’s army that destroyed the British three years later in the Battle of New Orleans. A generation later the U. S. Secretary of War asked Tennessee for 2,800 soldiers to fight a war against Mexico. 30,000 volunteered.

This is a state where faith comes first.

We don’t ask why. We know there is a reason and look forward to it being revealed.

We are guided by scriptures such as Philippians 2:3-5 which says: “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves. Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others. Your attitude should be the same as that of Jesus.”

Family is a focus, not an afterthought.

Don’t bother trying to do business with us the week of Christmas or July 4th. We’ll be with family.

When our kids have a school play we will be there. We throw big birthday parties. We teach our kids right from wrong and aren’t afraid to give them a whippin’ when they need it. Here we say “Yes ma’am” and “No ma’am.” We try to leave a place better than we found it. We put our hand over our heart when the national anthem is played. We pull over on the side of the road when funeral processions pass on the other side.

We are savvy business people. We are farmers. We are teachers.

We drink Coke here. We like gravy with our biscuits and potatoes.

We are serious about our sports. We keep score in little league and we still have all-star teams and MVP trophies.We are givers.

You won’t hear us wailing about where the federal government and insurance companies were in all of this. We’ll get by just fine without them.

Right now we have a lot to deal with here in our backyard. We will handle it with dignity and class. We will sacrifice for each other in ways that are unfathomable to most. We will stand together. We will stand tall. We will come out of this stronger than we were before it.

One day in the not too distant future a hurricane, tornado, fire, flood or other unspeakable disaster will strike your community. As you struggle to put the pieces back together we will be there.We will volunteer.

We are Tennesseans.

This is Tennessee.

2009-12-05T18:34:00.001-06:00

Dialysis

2009-11-09T22:33:00.002-06:00

As of Wed, Nov. 11 I will have missed 45 dialysis treatments since my transplant in March. Can't say that I've missed them. It seems like I've been dealing with something all the time though. It's a lot to contemplate. Hmmmmmm..........

Janie and Prissy at Beef Camp '09

2009-08-09T13:04:00.002-05:00

This is #2 granddaughter, 13 yr. old Janie, with her calf, Prissy. She attended Beef Camp this summer at MTSU. They had to bring their calves, and be responsible for their care for the whole week, plus showing them, etc. Janie wasn't even aware that her picture had been taken. Didn't know it was going to be on the cover until the magazine came out. There was no article, just the cover photo.

Day 11 - Five Dialysis Treatments not taken!

2009-03-24T14:29:00.003-05:00

Last year at the Kidney Walk I met a new friend. He had been on dialysis before receiving a transplant in 2003. He now tells the passage of time by the number of dialysis treatments that he has not taken since he got his new kidney. The last time I heard he has missed 867 dialysis treatments. How cool is that?

With every transplant there is the possibility of rejection or other difficulties. But I am chosing to not let those kinds of thoughts ruin a single day. It's just futile. After all, we can never regain the days we lose. I'm celebrating every day as a gift from God. I may even get a little wild. I suggest you beware if you see me on the highway, ESPECIALLY if a certain wild young lady is driving. Brawhahahahahah!!

TWELVE REASONS YOU'LL NEVER HEAR, WHY I STOPPED ATTENDING SPORTS EVENTS

2009-02-05T11:01:00.011-06:00

~ Every time I went, they asked me for money.

~ The people with whom I had to sit by didn't seem very friendly.

~ The seats were too hard and not comfortable at all.

~ The coach never came to call on me.

~ The referee made a decision with which I could not agree.

~ I was sitting with some hypocrites -- they came only to see what
others were wearing.

~ Some games went into overtime, and I was late getting home.

~ The band played some numbers that I had never heard before.

~ The games are scheduled when I want to do other things.

~ My parents took me to too many games when I was growing up.

~ Since I read a book on sports, I feel that I know more than the
coaches anyhow.

~ I don't want to take my children, because I want them to choose
for themselves what sport they like best.

A Good Tuesday

2009-01-27T11:02:00.009-06:00

Well, I made myself get up at a regular time (I dare not say "early") and got myself to Wal-Mart and took all my old negatives of the girls to have them put on disc. I gave the pictures to the girls some years ago. Thought it would be easier for me to divide them than for them to have to do it later. Now that I have the possibility of doing so many things with them on the computer and all, I'm kind of missing them. Guess I'll still have to have them printed, won't I? Yikes! That could prove to be quite an undertaking. Wouldn't have to do them all at once though. When I get them safely back into my own grubby little hands, I'll breath again, and then have some fun with them.

I copied this from somewhere, but I don't know from where, or who wrote it. But it speaks to me.

2009-01-08T18:53:00.002-06:00

Whisper Of Hope
9-22-05
Bitterness is a hard pill to swallow
Trying to move on and not let fear win
Not wanting to give in
Tired of being at this place again
I’m a rose waiting to bloom
Opening up my soul
Sharing my thoughts and fears
Trying to figure different things out along the way
Sometimes it gets harder each day
I just feel in the way
In the midst of trying to explain myself
Tears of frustration spill forth
I want to run
And shut myself down
For fear of being misunderstood yet again
But still not wanting to give in
In the midst of forcing myself to stay open
Anger spews out over the dumbest things
Tired of feeling as if I’m the bad girl
Just trying to figure out what lies beneath the surface
Confused, and broken
How many times can one be broken?
How far down am I supposed to go, to get to the root of it all?
Enough is enough
I will stand back up
Eventually
So I sit at this place
Seeing how God uses all of this
I know He will use it for my good
Because He loves me
I am His
So now my sorrow carries with it a whisper of hope

Ms. Ann and Me

2009-01-03T17:56:00.000-06:00

A World Record, Ladies and Gentlemen!!!

2008-11-29T15:55:00.004-06:00

Yes! For the first time in recent history, I have my Christmas tree up the day after Thanksgiving! This accomplishment was made possible by Emily, the Magnificient!! She can also leap tall buildings in a single bound!

Isn't it lovely? In case you have never seen one, this is a Chrismon tree. The Chrismons ornaments were first developed by Frances Kipps Spencer (1917-1990) at Ascension Lutheran Church in Danville, Virginia. She originated them in 1957 when she set out to create decorations appropriate for a church Christmas tree.

An evergreen tree, which symbolizes the eternal life, which our savior has won for us, forms the background for tiny white lights and gold Chrismons designs. The lights speak of Him who is the light of the world, and the Chrismons ornaments proclaim the name, the life, and the saving acts of Jesus the Christ.

Some Chrismons designs are simple copies of symbols of Christianity from its earliest days; Others are new explanations of God's constant presence in our ever changing world; and some are combinations of several elements old and new.

The symbols used are interdenominational and the heritage of all Christians.
Chrismons are not to be bought, sold or put into kit form.

MAY THESE SYMBOLS CONTINUALLY REMIND YOU OF GOD'S GREATEST GIFT TO
US ALL, JESUS CHRIST.

For more information concerning Chrismons go here: http://www.umcs.org/chrismons/
Feel free to ask me any questions you might have about my reditions.

Adventure in the Woods!

2008-11-05T00:12:00.006-06:00

I have to say that I'm not as active as I once was, but my heart is willing though the body be weak. I do, however, have some grand daughters (Corey & Emily) that are very brave. They have no problems whatsoever of escorting me through whatever trek they decide to explore. And I have every confidence in their ability to get me out of whatever they take me into. LOL I love nature, and I love the woods. So Sunday afternoon was a treat for me as we spent some time at David Crockett Park. You should give it a try. I never tire of the details of God's handiwork.

TOP 10 PREDICTIONS NO MATTER WHO WINS THE ELECTION

2008-11-03T22:44:00.000-06:00

1. The Bible will still have all the answers.
2. Prayer will still work.
3. The Holy Spirit will still move.
4. God will still inhabit the praises of His people.
5. There will still be God-anointed preaching.
6. There will still be singing of praise to God.
7. God will still pour out blessings upon His people.
8. There will still be room at the Cross.
9. Jesus will still love you.
10. Jesus will still save the lost when they come to Him.

And God approves this message!

ISN'T IT GREAT TO KNOW WHO IS REALLY IN CHARGE! AMEN!

Fall is approaching

2008-10-23T12:50:00.003-05:00

Here it is the latter part of October and the weather confirms the fact that summer is quickly coming to an end. I don't like the cooler weather, nor the shorter days. I woke up with mega pain this morning. I think the fact that it will probably rain soon may have helped with that, but my joints have been more painful as of late anyway. Nothing much going on around here but doctor's appts. and more doctor's appts. We've got to find ourselves a new hobby.

Election is in less than two weeks. I'll be glad when it is all over. What on earth will the news people have to talk about then?

More Results . . . . but not Mine

2008-10-12T02:22:00.002-05:00

My daughter, Becky, put the following on her blog. You can read it for yourself.

"I had an appointment with my kidney doctor yesterday (Thurs.) and results from my blood work revealed that my kidney function is pretty low - 16% - and that I am going to have to go on dialysis pretty soon, within the next few months. I have to tell you I was completely flabbergasted. I had no idea that things had moved along that quickly and in the back of my mind I was hoping I could wait as long as my Mom did (60) before going on dialysis.

I don’t have a lot of details right now. I have a referral to a doctor who will talk to me about putting in a fistula and possibly something in my stomach also. One would allow me to have dialysis at home and with the other I would go to a center 3x a week to get dialysis. I suppose we will be talking options.

I don’t mind answering any questions that you have - if I don’t know the answers, my mom probably will. I had my “freaking-out” time but now I am ready to face it with the help of God. I hope that doesn’t sound clicheish because that is certainly not the way I mean it - I am going to be leaning hard on Him in the days to come.

The Results . . . . .

2008-10-03T15:08:00.003-05:00

I heard from Vanderbilt yesterday. They said, and I quote, "your donor has been declined." Not that the donor declined, but that she had been declined. You can glean whatever you may from that and you know as much as I do. They tell you nothing because of the donor's privacy. So there it is. And I'm okay with it, I really am. I was beginning to have doubts about it because they just weren't getting back to me. The LORD is still in charge, and if He says I don't need this one, then I don't want it. I'm still trusting Him for what is best for me. At least, now I can get back to my everyday life. Yeah! ~Later

Zombie-fied

2008-09-30T11:01:00.002-05:00

I know I haven't been blogging much lately. I'm kind of in limbo with this waiting. Why on earth would they call me and ask if I wanted the kidney before the donor completed her tests? It's been three weeks people!!! I'm ready to do some major whining.

Transplant Update

2008-09-23T17:04:00.002-05:00

It's been two weeks since I was called and told I had a donor.
I called Vanderbilt this morning . It's my case coordinator's day off. So
we chased around and they started trying to find out what they could.
The girl was actually very nice.

My labs were compatable with the donor (and they called it a "her" so I
won't be growing a beard or anything). The donor, however, has not completed all
her testing. We have also chased my mammogram around the world but they
finally decided I'm okay. Said if I didn't hear from them, call back in a
week or so. Big sigh!

I'm trying to be very, very patient. (Excuse me a moment while I scream.)

Antibiotics mixed with prayers are wonderful things!!!!!

2008-09-18T14:07:00.002-05:00

Prayers

2008-09-15T09:44:00.003-05:00

I need your prayers. I'm trying to get a sore throat and sinus thing. I have a dr.'s appointment in the morning!

What To Do Now. . . .

2008-09-11T13:48:00.005-05:00

You would think I'd be ultra-busy getting things done, preparing for everything, but I am mostly just antsy, going from one project to the other and accomplishing nothing. Too bad that sniveling is not allowed, cause I'm primed. Or maybe just screaming would help. Any experienced people out there with helpful suggestions?

Guess What?!!!!!!!!!!

2008-09-09T17:11:00.002-05:00

I got a call this morning that was totally unexpected. I don't care how much you know it might happen, can happen, will someday happen, it's still surreal when it happens. No, I didn't win a sweepstake or the lottery. But, I got a call from the Vanderbilt transplant office. They said I may have a kidney!!! Let me explain.

This person was tested to see if they could be a donor for someone waiting on the transplant list. They were not a match. So the person told them they would still give their kidney and to put them in the computer. That's when the found that I was a match. And a live donor at that! I had thought I was destined for a cadaver donor if at all. I left it in God's hands. I did not know how or for what to pray for, so I left it in His hands, whether a live or cadaver donor, or stay on dialysis. I've just tried to take it all a day at a time. And then this morning, I got the surprise phone call! There is one more test before it's a sure thing. That's where they will mix some of my blood with the donor's blood.

If you have anti-human antibodies in your blood, they may react with the tissue type of a kidney donor, which means that you would not be able to receive a kidney from that donor. The antibodies in your blood would attack and damage the kidney immediately after transplantation. This is called "hyperacute rejection" which usually results in loss of the transplanted kidney. For more information check out this website:
http://www.transplantexperience.com/kidney_body_faqs.php?f=o#5

This is possibly the start of a whole new journey. It, too, will have to be taken a day at a time. I'm excited, nervous, scared, anxious, ALL OF THE ABOVE! I don't know how I'll feel if it all falls thorough, but I know it will be okay either way. It will still be in God's hands.

Hurrah!

2008-09-04T16:02:00.004-05:00

William came home this morning from the hospital. He will have to take a blood thinner from now on. My trip to Nashville was for ought. I am thankful, but just aggravated that it was all for nothing. William in the hospital, my son-in-law took his time and effort to take me to Nashville, I had to cut dialysis short to make the appt. in time, to say nothing of the gas! The dr. said there was nothing there of any concern and acted like he didn't understand why they sent me. Grrrrrr...........

POLITICS! I've never been a fan of politics. blah...blah-blah...blah-blah, blah...blah. But I do have to say that this is getting interesting and fun!!!
hee hee hee!

Third Day

2008-09-01T23:21:00.002-05:00

Nothing much has changed. They are still working on getting William's blood the right consistency. We have no idea how long that will take. It is hard for him to be confined to bed where he can't get up and take care of me! I'm fine. We'll both be fine as soon as we get him home.

Monday

2008-09-01T09:06:00.003-05:00

They took William to a regular room yesterday. I guess that denotes some improvement. He's eating well, but worn out from laying in bed. The cure can be worse than the ailment, but that's just the way it is. You gotta do what you gotta do. I won't get to go see him until after dialysis today. Our girls have been such a good help. I must get myself up and going. ~Later

Update

2008-08-30T10:39:00.002-05:00

Just talked to the hospital. When they got the tests back last night (early this morning)it also showed that William has a clot in his lung. Therefore, he is in ICU. Your prayers are coveted.

~Later

2008-08-30T08:39:00.003-05:00

Last night William was complaining with his leg hurting. He hasn't felt well
for several days (in addition to the usual). I asked if he'd taken
anything, yes, then later something he said clicked and I said, "you don't
have a blood clot, do you?" Well, he was wondering if he did, and whether
he should get it checked or not. So, I took him out to the ER around
10:00 PM and they did tests. Yes he has two blood clots, one in the calf
and one behind the knee of his right leg. So they kept him and have started
medications. They did a scan of his lungs to make sure he didn't have anything
in there.

Cardboard testimonies

2008-07-23T14:43:00.005-05:00

stop playlist before playing . . .

I Love Crunching Ice!

2008-07-17T19:25:00.006-05:00

Not only do I love crunching ice, I crave crunching ice! I know that craving ice can be a sign of iron deficiency anemia, but not always. One thing that can percipitate the desire for ice is simply dry mouth. I always take a cup of crushed ice with me to dialysis, but I love it at home, too. I drive all my family and friends bonkers with eating ice all the time. I think Sonic drive-in has the best crunching ice around. So, I wondered if I might be able to find out what kind of ice machine they have so I started googling and I hit pay dirt. I found that there is a website "Icechewing.com". I AM NOT ALONE!!!

The American Dental Association says that ice-chewing can damage teeth. (I recently found this out with my expensive new set of teeth.) I do love the attitude of Matt Messina, a dentist in Cleveland and spokesman for the association. "People have the right to do things that may hurt them. If something breaks, we'll fix it."

Sonic Corp., the big drive-in sandwich chain, switched to Scotsman nugget ice machines more than 20 years ago. Also known as "cubelets" or "Sonic ice" the fluffy pellets are sold at many Sonic franchises by the cup or the 10 pound bag. "Until I started working for Sonic, I didn't realize people were that nuts about ice," says Paul Pollok, a partner at a store in San Antonio.

Last Summer, Mr. Pollok's 24-hour restaurant bought cubed ice for three months after its aging nugget ice machines had worn out. "I had people screaming at me because I didn't have chewable ice," he says. He has two new nugget ice machines now.

For some people, going to a restaurant for the perfect ice is too much trouble. A few years ago singer Amy Grant wanted to find the perfect Christmas gift for her husband, Vince Gill, the country music star. She had a Scotsman machine costing several thousand dollars installed in their garage in Nashville.

"Ive chewed ice my whole life," says the 50-year-old Mr. Gill. Growing up in Oklahoma, he says, he judged restaurants by the quality of their ice. Today, he says, when he travels outside the U.S., he finds slim pickings.

"Europe is a drag," he says. "I ask for ice, and they give me one or two cubes. They're stingy with their ice. I'd never survive there." A great reason for never leaving the U.S.A.

So, there you have it. I am normal. It's just all you non-ice chewing people that are a little bent out-of-kelter. My question is: If Vince Gill can have his own nugget ice machine at his house, why can't I???? I'm back to googling . . . . .

Write About Your Favorite Pet

2008-07-15T10:50:00.004-05:00

Since I have been so blogging challenged for awhile now, I've gone in search of writing "topics". As they say, necessity is the mother of invention, so here we go. . . .

I have two favorite pets. I've had lots of pets in my lifetime and they were all favorites at the time I had them, but two have produced lasting memories that make them very special. First, was Georgie, a guinea pig. He was a member of our family for about 12 years. His name was derived from the nursery rhyme, Georgie, Porgie, pudding and pie. If I'm not mistaken, daughter Becky chose that name. He lived a long and happy life in a large chicken box in our den (that was replaced regularly as he chewed the end out of it). He was the sweetest, little critter with personality plus! He loved to be cuddled and handled. He loved going outside to "graze" on clover in the summer. He loved visits from Pepper, our black cocker spaniel who would stick his nose in his box and nuzzle him. He knew what certain sounds meant, and you could be certain that he would greet you with squeaks and whistles if you opened a refrigerator door or rustled paper that sounded like vegetable wrappings. I still feel like I'm being wasteful when I throw away vegetable and fruit parings, all of which Georgie would dispose of with much zeal. And you should have seen what he could do to a fresh ear of corn, shucks and all. He loved having tough stuff to nibble on. Guinea Pigs have teeth that continue to grow and like squirrels they need to keep them worn down. We kept him supplied with chewing material other than food (crackerboxes, cereal boxes, or whatever) that he liked to hide himself in whilst he munched contentedly.

I will add to this later. I went searching on the web for a photo that looked like Georgie and have spent a good part of the day reading about guinea pigs. Even found a rescue organization for abandoned and abused guinea pigs. Who would have thought it?

I don't do mornings

2008-07-12T12:59:00.003-05:00

It seems that mornings are getting harder and harder. I don't get to sleep at a good time or whatever. Then it's hard to get up and get going at a normal time, or get to dialysis where I hope to take a nap. If I do nap it passes the time, but then I'm not very sleepy at bedtime. A vicious circle and a tiresome daily routine. I wish I could take a two week vacation from dialysis. This every other day routine is dragging me down. I will persevere, though. I will!

Ewwwww. . . . . . .I'm about to ruin your day!

2008-07-12T00:33:00.005-05:00

10 surprising places where germs lurk
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/24511171/

What kind of milkshake are you?

2008-06-26T11:14:00.002-05:00

You Are a Chocolate Shake

You are a total hedonist. You are drawn to pleasure.

You are an expressive, over the top person. You're naturally dramatic.

You're the type of person who always chooses quality over quantity.

Life's too short to not have optimal experiences. You're proud of being picky.

What Flavor Shake Are You?

Scheduling

2008-06-19T16:56:00.004-05:00

I have so many things I need to do and yet seem to do so few of them. How does one simplify their life? How does one pick and chose which things are expendable? My usual method is to skid across the finish line just barely in time to meet some deadline. Governed by the last minute. Sigh............!

Writer's Block

2008-06-16T18:46:00.004-05:00

For some reason I have hit a writer's block and am having difficulty trying to come up with something to say. Day follows day follows day follows...........you get the picture. Got another dental appt. tomorrow.

2008-06-04T22:24:00.002-05:00

Six month checkup tomorrow on my dental implants! Could it be that long? It seemed like they would never heal in the beginning, and now they are just part of the norm. I can eat without pain. I can chew. I can bite!!! This has been one of the best things I've ever done for me.
~Later

Happy Anniversary to me!!!

2008-06-02T23:57:00.007-05:00

What else happened in 1964? 44 Years Ago!
*Jan. 8 – US Pres. Lyndon Johnson declares a “War on Poverty” in his first State of the Union address.

Memorial Day

2008-05-26T17:23:00.001-05:00

We had our family get-together yesterday at Joe and Jessica's. The whole family was there including Kenneth, Kathy, Emily and Corey. Most everyone had fun batting and catching ball. I even got into the act myself for a few minutes. I was barefoot and had a glove so I was ready to catch something, and catch something I did . . . but it was the ground! It all happened so fast that I don't really remember the details, but the ground and I met quite abruptly! I was quite surprised to find I had no broken bones or significant injury! I could tell I had fallen on my knee for it's pretty sore, but didn't make a bruise. I waited til this morning to see if I was stiff or had any unmoveable parts! LOL Everything was fine, but I did find a bruise between my big toe and on the next, a bruise on my right lower side and a popped blood vessel in my right hand. I was told I made quite a spectacle, and was ordered not to dive after any more balls, in fact I could only catch the ones that came right to me! What's up with that? (See 100 things, #12 and #15) I had fun.

The Hardest Thing About Blogging is Coming Up With Titles!

2008-05-22T19:13:00.014-05:00

I don't get entries done daily like I wish I could. But, if I did write daily it would be so terribly boring and it's pretty much redundant. So far this week I have had great ambitions but have accomplished nothing. I think I needed the down time though. The weather has been absolutely beautiful. I've piddled in gardening and that has been fun. Thanks to Emily's faithful hard work the yard is looking beautiful. We have two rewards in the vegetable garden. One hot banana pepper and one tiny green tomato!!! How exciting. Can't wait for that tomato to get big and red! We've been enjoying the bird feeders immensely! We've had some I'd never seen before, the rose breasted grosbeak - the mr. and mrs.! We have the usual natives; robins, mocking birds, cardinals, tufted titmouse, chickadees, mourning doves, a blue jay, a downy woodpecker, a beautiful rich brown thrasher (for some reason I call him a thrush), and several varieties of finches. I think they are called house finches. They are tiny brown birds with redish staining about the head and shoulders. I've seen one yellow finch. And we have bluebirds in the birdhouse. I'm hoping to increase the population as time goes on. Scot and Jennifer gave me some hummingbird feeders for mother's day. I haven't gotten them up yet, but hope to soon.

Whew!

2008-05-17T13:31:00.002-05:00

A nice lazy Saturday. Most all my goals have been lived through. Graduation announcements done. Sara graduated. Her family has all gone to Florida on a celebratory vacation. Company's gone. And here we are, feeling like jet lag. I dug in the flower bed for awhile. Soon had enough of that. Hmmmmm.......it must be movie time. That's about as much stress as I want for the rest of the day. Hope all my faithful readers (I won't name them) are having a great weekend!

~Later

A Milestone

2008-05-17T00:26:00.002-05:00

Well, today was a big day. Sara's graduation day! I think Elizabeth's graduation card said it best. You opened it up and it starts playing the Hallelujah Chorus; Hal-le-lu-jah! Hal-le-lu-jah!!!

Hope You Had a Great Mother's Day!

2008-05-13T12:40:00.009-05:00

Hectic Schedule

2008-05-07T12:27:00.002-05:00

Family reunion was Saturday. Although the weather was beautiful the crowd was a little smaller than usual. We had a really good time visiting. Sunday was busy as always with church and family. Monday is always recuperation day. Tuesday was doctor's appt. an hour's ride away so I finished Sara's graduation announcements as we went to and fro. That job's done.

Today is D-day (dialysis) and church tonight. Emily is spending the night tonight and tomorrow we are running away. Got some shopping we need to do and some serious galavanting! We (we, as in Emily's labor and my dirt!) have lettuce and radishes sprouting! Soon we will also be having tomatoes, squash, okra, broccoli, green beans, and green and banana peppers.

I'm excited about my Calla Lilies. They are sprouting everywhere. I've got to pull some weeds now that I can see where the lilies are.

My yogurt awaits. ~Later!

Fireproof

2008-05-02T21:08:00.002-05:00

2008-04-22T18:44:00.002-05:00

Hasn't been much blogging around here lately. I've been sick for about a week and totally un-human. Got some antibiotics on Monday and have decided that I might live. Prayers are still coveted.

~Da Grandma

Kidney Walk

2008-04-08T22:32:00.007-05:00

Sunday, April 27, 2008 I am participating in the National Kidney Foundation's Kidney Walk which will be held at Maury County Park. This is my first time and I'm kind of looking forward to it. I don't mind working in any capacity for the Foundation, but my least favorite would be asking for donations. I know what a worthy cause it is, but there are so many worthy causes that some people can be very rude because they are continually being asked if they would like to donate to something. That's one reason I really like the Firstgiving website where you can state your case, and send emails to people you know. They can donate or delete without ever being confronted with a fundraiser.

Some Facts:
Kidneys can become so damaged from disease that they can no longer perform their bodily duties. This can lead to
ACUTE KIDNEY FAILURE -- a short term loss of function, and
END-STAGE RENAL DISEASE -- permanent, irreversible damage to both kidneys.
Fortunately, if one kidney is lost, or even if both are partly damaged, the remaining tissue is usually strong enough to do the job.

KIDNEY DISEASE CAN AFFECT ANYONE, AT ANY AGE!
The main types and causes of kidney and related diseases include:
Pyelonephritis occurs when infections in other parts of the body can spread to the kidneys. Risk factors include diabetes, obstructions of the urinary tract, and
long-term use of catheters.
Glomerulonephritis is an inflammation of blood vessels in the kidneys. It is usually caused by strep infections of the skin and throat.
Kidney Stones are hard deposits formed in the kidneys, which can block drainage. They may be caused by excess calcium in the urine. Risk factors include
dehydration, heavy use of alcohol, excess vitamin D, and family history of kidney stones.
Nephrotic Syndrome is the result of excess protein in the urine, causing tissues to swell. This is most common in children. In adults, it may be a complication of diabetes, lupus or other illnesses.
Cysts are fluid-filled sacs. Having some cysts is harmless, but having many cysts (polycystic kidney disease) may cause the kidney to become abnormally large. This condition is inherited.
High Blood Pressure can damage small arteries in the kidneys over time. A vicious cycle begins -- damage to kidneys causes more serious high blood pressure, which damages the kidneys.
Diabetes can also damage blood vessels in the kidneys. Diabetes is one of the leading causes of kidney problems.

Other possible causes of kidney disease include:
exposure to heavy metals (such as lead and mercury) or toxic chemicals,
heavy use of pain relievers, heavy use of alcohol or other drugs, including prescription medications, and pre-eclampsia (a complication of pregnancy)

Statistics About Kidney Disease
Millions of families see the effects of kidney and urinary tract diseases every year. The effects are widespread in this country and elsewhere. The following are some real-life statistics about kidney diseases (from the NKF and UNOS):

U.S. Statistics:
20,000,000 are at risk of developing chronic kidney/urinary tract disease
20,000,000 have kidney disease
370,000 have to take dialysis treatments or receive a transplant to stay alive
60,000 will die this year because of kidney and urinary illnesses
97,915 are currently awaiting life-saving organ transplants; only half will receive them.

Other Statistics:
74,746 people in U.S. are currenlty on a list for a kidney
1,098 people in Tennessee waiting for a kidney--this number is 5 times higher than any other organ
167,678 people in East TN are affected by kidney and urinary diseases
24,076 In 2001, there were this many lifesaving organ transplants performed in the U.S.
6,439 In 2001, people died waiting for a transplant

PKD-Polycystic Kidney Disease
Autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD) is one of the most common, life-threatening genetic diseases, affecting 600,000 Americans and 12.5 million people, worldwide. ADPKD affects more people than Down syndrome, cystic fibrosis, muscular dystrophy and sickle cell anemia combined.

ADPKD causes fluid-filled cysts to grow on the kidneys. Over time, these cysts multiply and grow, causing kidney failure in 50 percent of cases. Dialysis and transplantation are the only treatments for kidney failure. There is no treatment or cure for PKD.

ADPKD affects 1 in 500 newborns, children and adults regardless of sex, age, race or ethnic origin. It does not skip a generation. Parents with ADPKD have a 50 percent chance of passing the disease on to each of their children.

Common symptoms of ADPKD include high blood pressure, pain in the back, side or stomach, blood in the urine, kidney stones, frequent urinary tract infections, a family history of kidney problems, heart problems or strokes. Anyone experiencing one or more of these symptoms should see a doctor.

What Kind of Thinker Are You?

2008-04-04T22:49:00.002-05:00

Your Thinking is Concrete and Random

You are naturally inquisitive and curious.

You're excited by new ideas, and you are a true independent thinker.

You are interested in what is possible. You like the process of discovery.

You are often experimenting, challenging old ideas, and inventing new concepts.

Rules, restrictions, and limit don't really work for you.

You have to do things your own way, and you can't be bothered to explain yourself.

What Kind of Thinker Are You?

What color is your aura?

2008-04-01T22:04:00.004-05:00

Your Aura is Blue

Spiritual and calm, you tend to live a quiet but enriching life.

You are very giving of yourself. And it's hard for you to let go of relationships.

The purpose of your life: showing love to other people

Famous blues include: Angelina Jolie, the Dali Lama, Oprah
Now isn't this encouraging!!!

Careers for you to try: Psychic, Peace Corps Volunteer, Counselor

What Color Is Your Aura?

Deja vu! Jennifer and Sara at 5 yrs. old

2008-03-29T13:10:00.003-05:00

Deja vu ! Janie and Elizabeth at 11 yrs. old

2008-03-29T12:48:00.001-05:00

Coming Soon!

2008-03-20T11:02:00.002-05:00

I'm planning on broadening my blog soon if I can manage it. I want to share some of my craft projects of the past and hopefully new ones I'm working on. Dialysis has cut into my time drastically, but I keep trying to create. My interests have recently wandered back into sewing, including quilting and other various assundries. Keep an eye out and we'll see what developes! ~Later

A Lazy Sunday Afternoon

2008-03-16T14:02:00.006-05:00

Yesterday was my birthday! A bunch of us celebrated at Dairy Queen. Sara-Bara, our new DQ girl, made me a great turtle blizzard with extra pecans, of course!

My first celebration was Friday. Emily took me to see the premiere of Horton Hears a Who! Afterwards she took me to Frank's Italian Restaurant where I had a first, Shells Florentine w/tomato sauce. She had the same thing only with Alfredo sauce. We shared a piece of Italian Creme Cake and brought some home for William. I think I need to fast for a week now! It was sooo good.

We're having a really laid back, do nothing afternoon. No company or anything. It just worked out that way. Janie spent the night with us last night and her dad picked her up after church. So, I thought it was a perfect time to catch up on my blog.

Saturday

2008-03-08T10:53:00.005-06:00

Had a nice little snow last night. Just enough to cover the ground good. The street and concrete was mostly clear this morning and the rest is melting away now at about lunch time. It was enough that some early sledders could have a really good time.

It's early March with daffodils blooming and the hope of Spring and time for cabin fever to rear its ugly head. A melange of complaints running through the extended family, including gout and strep. It's times like these that I wish we were all a little closer in distance so it would be possible to help out more. With dialysis 3 days a week and other appts. now and then, it's almost impossible.

Life just gets so tiresome in the Winter. The naked trees stand strongly and patiently in the cold wind knowing that eventually the time will come for them to burst forth their green finery. Another season of warmth and life and joy will be here! Don't forget to set your clocks forward one hour this weekend to help in this process. Ha!

~Later

March Greetings!

2008-03-06T11:13:00.008-06:00

Not a lot been going on around here. Jan. and Feb. are cold, dreary, depressing times and I don't like them. Having to go to dialysis three days a week gets me out of the house and around people whether I want to or not, and I guess that is a good thing. I can't wait for Spring so I can dig in the dirt a little, go barefoot, garden a little, walk in the woods a little. Ahhhhhh..........hope remains.

I haven't been posting regularly but I do try to keep my PKD journal semi up-to-date. I've got several projects going as usual. Working on the church's chrismons (new ones & refurbishing the old ones), decluttering (hahaha), Christmas, . . . . .
(whistling)

~Later

Yaaaaaaaaaaaay, Katie!!!!!!

2008-02-27T21:01:00.000-06:00

Katie's Fan Club

2008-02-27T13:45:00.005-06:00

Standing: Elizabeth, Emily, Janie, Da Grandma, Ms. Betty, Katie, & Mr. Rodney.
In front: Nathan and Libby

Does anyone read this blog?

2008-02-22T15:30:00.002-06:00

Haven't had any comments in awhile. I know it isn't world news or anything but I'd like to think someone besides me reads it. If you have commented lately, you know who you are, so this doesn't apply to you. The rest of you, get with it, okay?

William is going to the men's conference at church this weekend. I've got two pecan pies in the oven to send. We are having a family luncheon tomorrow and we don't know what else we might do afterwards.

I'm reading a good book that I borrowed from Becky. The title is "Simplify". I'm trying to create a major change in my life. I'm also reading a book I borrowed from Jessica by Beth Moore called "Get Out of That Pit." I've been in a pit for many years due to insecurities, etc. which I won't delve into specifics, but am trying to dig my way out. It's not easy but I'm making progress, I think. I just decided I couldn't take the isolation any more, so I'm trying baby steps. (Have you seen "What About Bob"?)

Enough disclosure! ~Later

Just a Thought............

2008-02-19T12:21:00.002-06:00

How quickly my thoughts are lost these days! Sometimes before I have the whole thought, it slips away. My thought processes have always been affected by stress, and I blamed that on being a symptom of fibromyalgia. Now I can blame it on any number of things, take your pick. My only defense is to just not worry about it. But, it is always there, might as well make friends with it. :)

There is so much I need to do.....and want to do.....and just feel so hopeless and useless......sick and tired of being sick and tired.........I don't like this. Okay, so today I'm blaming it on the winter blahs. Lord, bring us the sunshine!

~Later

Among the Living

2008-02-12T15:23:00.000-06:00

I am finally back on line and among the living - well almost! Seems like I've been gone for ages. Recent events in my life IN NO PARTICULAR ORDER: Went to see Peter Pan with Corey and Emily Saturday. It was a good show, but not one I'd want to see twice. Everything (scenery, acting, singing, costumes, etc) was top notch as usual, but a little too "busy and noisy" for my taste, and a lot of crowing! It was fun though getting to spend the time with the girls.

Janie (see grandchildren for photo) has been winning awards for her speeches and essays at different levels and competitions. The best part of winning involves $$$$ folks! Katie is loving Upwards Basketball! Way to go, Katie!!! Janie has a role in the upcoming school play. This is her third year. Katie won second place with her speech for her grade. Libby got the 'most improved' award. Do you see a pattern here?

William and I spent the day at Dick and Becky's last Tuesday. I gave the boys a haircut which was actually the equivelent of two haircuts! We hope to get to them sooner next time so we don't have to bring out the bush hog! (just kiddin') I shaped up Becky's hair a little from a beauty shop malfunction. I don't know what it was suppose to be, but it looked like they stopped before they finished! The boys and I had fun painting with water colors. William played his drums for me. His drums are in the shed. Becky told me they listen from the house. I got the up close and personal performance. Not bad! Jonathan loves kicking a ball around. He's so fun-loving and easy going.

Jennifer and Scott are redoing their kitchen. That's always exciting. Delaney loves Cinderella. She has her all over her wall. Sara is graduating this year which just does not compute in this grandma's brain. She's just totally too grown up. The drama team performed at Church Sun. night and Sara was right in front of me. She has a graceful and beautiful artistic expression. Chloe is becoming such a sweet, grownup, little lady. She was only 5, I think, when we first met her. I say it all the time, but, it seems that time just flies by, and I just stand here and say, 'what happened?'

Well, I must stop here and move around. I'm drooping. ~Later

What kind of weather

2008-02-11T16:29:00.001-06:00

You Are Rain

You can be warm and sexy. Or cold and unwelcoming.

Either way, you slowly bring out the beauty around you.

You are best known for: your touch

Your dominant state: changing

What Type of Weather Are You?

What kind of personality do I have?

2008-02-11T13:39:00.000-06:00

You Have A Type B+ Personality

You're a pro at going with the flow
You love to kick back and take in everything life has to offer
A total joy to be around, people crave your stability.

While you're totally laid back, you can have bouts of hyperactivity.
Get into a project you love, and you won't stop until it's done
You're passionate - just selective about your passions

greetings!

2008-02-05T12:11:00.000-06:00

Hello world!!! I am so excited. I am at Becky's on her laptop. Grrrrrrr! I hate this thing! (sorry, Becky) But, just wanted to warn the world that hopefully I will be back on line next week! I'm hoping and praying that all my stuff on the old computer will be able to be retrieved, especially my photos. Don't you just hate it when these things just crash?

Can't wait to get back!
~Later

Greetings

2008-01-09T15:26:00.001-06:00

Hey, everyone. Just a quick hello to let you know that my computer has died. We're talking total trauma here. I am at the library now trying to remember my passwords, etc. to get into my stuff. LOL My computer did the remembering for me most of the time. I don't know when I'll be back on line. Want to think about what I want to do, and do some research. Things were crazy before Christmas, of course. All is almost back to normal now-whatever that is. Dialysis has been up and down as usual. I'll try to check back as often as I can. Anyone needing to email me can reach me at stamperann@gmail.com. If you need me in a hurry, I also have the old-fashioned telephone if anyone remembers how to use it.

~Later

Should I confess?

2007-12-27T14:38:00.000-06:00

I indeed made it through Christmas. We always do. There's no way around it but to die! Some things got done and others didn't. I always seem to have myself in precarious predicaments. I get behind. I need to do last minute things. My time runs out and my energy plays out. I use to could handle doing stuff at the last minute, but not anymore, it seems. Then I have to 'make do', and I agonize over whether it was good enough, or balanced for everyone. Somehow, no matter how much I do or try, it's never enough to quiet the inner angst of my being. I want things to be perfect. No one does anything to make me feel this way. I manage it all by myself.

I worked all day Christmas Eve and then we went to the Stems for Christmas Eve. It was very enjoyable as always. We had a feast, and it was sooo gooood. We left fairly early as I had to prepare for Christmas day. The day itself went well. We had plenty of good food. I was determined to get all I needed done, and my secret methods of cleaning, sling and hide, always comes in real handy. I wrapped the last of the presents, cooked the last of the food, cleaned, swept, boxed and locked and finished just in time for breakfast with Jessica and Joe. Jessica went to the Christmas service at church and before long everyone was arriving. Everything went smoothly and a good time was had by all, I think. It's always a little chaotic with so many people in the house, but fun as we listen to the conversations of the little ones as they play. They are so funny and delightful!

Every day since Christmas has been a day of recuperation. I went to bed about 9:30-10:00 Christmas day. Slept til 8:30 and then got up and went to dialysis. For the very first time I went to sleep during dialysis! I was late going to sleep last night, but I stayed asleep until about 11:00 or so today. I'm still recup-ing. Whew! Don't think I'm ever going to try that again. It wasn't so bad during, but the catching up afterwards is rough! I think I'm starting on next year this week!

Soon we'll be starting a new year! YeeeeHaaaaaaaw!
~Later

Ponderings of Christmas Eve

2007-12-24T10:23:00.000-06:00

We're down for the count. It's just a matter of hours now. I'm subsisting on drugs and prayers. Have a day of cooking and baking ahead of me. Last minute shopping. And slinging. Which means my cleaning now consists of slinging everything into boxes and locking the door to hopeless rooms. I only have one rule at my house: If the door is shut, don't open it. To make sure you don't, I lock it. I know what Christmas is all about, and that we do this to ourselves. It seems impossible not to get caught up in the hussle and bussle of "Christmas." It shouldn't be this way, but I've yet to figure out how to stop it. One more day and the chaos will all be over. Don't let it totally overshadow your Christmas. I keep a small corner in my heart where I draw aside and thank God for my real Christmas gift, Jesus. May the love of God, family and friends be prevalent throughout your week. Have a very Merry Christmas!

How many more days?

2007-12-19T13:51:00.000-06:00

One more major shopping day and I should be okay. It has been an interesting week. Sunday was party day in Sunday School and Sunday night was 'everyone bring fingerfoods' fellowship. Monday around 10:30 PM Delaney began throwing up. She progressively worsened until she was taken to the hospital after doctor's visit, shots and conference calls, between 4-5:00 PM. The dr. wanted them to take her to Columbia where they have a better pediatric department. At the hospital they decided to watch her and not to start an IV if at all possible. About 10:30 she quit being sick. In the meantime I took grand daughter, Sara, home with me so I could take her to the orthodontist Tuesday. William took the car then and went to take Jennifer and Delaney to the hospital. Scott met them at the hospital on the way home from work. So, Tues. it was an hour drive to the orthodontist, and then half way back for my own dr. appt. and then lunch. While I was out, I had to do some shopping at Hobby Lobby. I'd been trying to get there for three weeks. When I finished there I was wiped out so we headed for home. Took Sara by her house, (Delaney was home by then) and Jennifer said, "I may be calling you; our heat went out!" And sure enough, we had everyone but Chloe for the night. Hopefully they will be able to get everything fixed today. I got most of the C'mas tree decorated last night except for the very bottom. One box of my C'mas lights were white, the cord as well as the lights! So I have to find some more. Gonna try to hit Florence tomorrow and finish up everything. Got to make a list of things I need to cook and what I need to make them. Finish up shopping. Wrap presents. Clean house. Bake and cook. Finish tree. Dialysis Friday and Sunday. Church Sunday. Monday night gathering at the Stems. Breakfast Tuesday morning with Joe and Jessica. And then everybody will be here for lunch! I guess I need to make some kind of plans for the menu. Piece of cake!! No problem!! Can get it done with my eyes closed! HHEELLLLLLLLLLLLLLPPPP!!!! sniff! sniff!
~Later, providing I live.

Countdown to Christmas

2007-12-17T13:42:00.000-06:00

7 Days

10 Hours

18 Minutes

I don't think I'm going to make it. But I have to make it. An oxymoron to be sure, but a fact. I'm always in a quandry! What do you do, when you Cannot Do? Pray! Do you think God really cares about the messes we get ourselves into? Our purposes, our intents, our hopes, our desperations, etc.? Dec. 26 I'm starting on NEXT YEAR! Wahhhhhhhhhhh!

Noel

2007-12-10T21:50:00.000-06:00

Tonight I watched the third performance of Noel performed at my church. I just wish they were performing it again tomorrow night. Outstanding job was done by all. The children did an outstanding job on their song. The soloists were all top-notch. I can't say enough. What a blessing! I will definitely be getting the DVD and hopefully a CD will be available too.

It was a busy, busy weekend. Elizabeth and the girls stayed over until Sun. night to see the musical. I've been working, working, working on some secret projects that are about ready to bring to a close. I don't know if I'll get everything done that I need to do before Christmas, but I'm refusing to stress over it. And I could stress BIG TIME over it if I let myself. But, it's time to practice what I've always preached to everyone else. So, I'm doing the best I can, and the rest will all be forgotten the next day.

~LATER

I'm gonna be a bear!

2007-12-06T10:52:00.000-06:00

Only 19 days, 13 hours, 9 minutes, and 36 seconds.......
left until Christmas! And even with the best of intentions, here I am again, needing to buy, bake, build, and bargain hunt. I won't even mention the state the house is in. Oops, I just did. But no details! I'm tired. I'm sore. My sinuses are trying their best to get me down. There's too much darkness. No motivation. COLD! BRRRRRRRRR! Only one solution that I can see. I wanna be a bear.

If you're a bear, you get to hibernate. You do nothing but sleep for six months.
I could deal with that.

Before you hibernate, you're supposed to eat yourself stupid.
I could deal with that, too.

If you're a mama bear, everyone knows you mean business. You swat anyone who bothers your cubs. If your cubs get out of line, you swat them too.
I could deal with that.

If you're a bear, your mate EXPECTS you to wake up growling. He EXPECTS that you will have hairy legs and excess body fat. He KNOWS not to get between you and the food.

Yup... Gonna be a bear.

Senior Musing

2007-11-27T10:26:00.000-06:00

I've come to realize that one reason my blog is getting so haphazard-looking is not because I don't write stuff, but that I forget to "post" it after I've written it. I wrote an entry last night but it's nowhere to be found this morning! Ah well, we must understand that this blog does belong to "da grandma". That has many more implications than just someone with grandchildren. It's a whole different mentality. Every day is an adventure! I never know what I might be doing next! Most of the time I don't know what I just did! Talk about living for the moment. That's not as bad as it may sound, except for those around me. So, when I repeat myself or I repeat myself, just go along with me, okay? It's much less stressful all around.

Seriously, I can see my life changing around me. Some for the better, and some not. I isolate myself more (probably as much mentally as physically) for fear of making a big embarrassing mess of something. Letting folks down who are expecting something of me. It's impossible to explain the feeling, somewhat like walking on a tightrope. Everything is fine as long as the wind isn't blowing but it doesn't take but one little gust to make you lose your balance. I guess that's called fear. Then I have to make myself remember that God is not a God of fear, but of sound mind. So I hang on to Him. He knows my thoughts. He knows my fears. He knows my intentions. He knows my hurts and anxieties. And He forgives me so readily. He loves me regardless. I don't have to prove myself to Him. I'm a mess and He knows it, but He loves me anyway.

Well, I keep writing and re-writing everything so I think it wise to just stop here. I'm very unsettled at saying this much. I may have to come back later and delete this, so read fast! ~Later

Here it is! I found it in my drafts!

2007-11-26T23:20:00.000-06:00

I'm experiencing a brain lapse. Can't think of anything to write. I am so totally wiped out at the end of my day on which I have dialysis. DIALYSIS! That seems to be the topic of my life. Every day it's there, even on my off days. I'm trying to zero in on Christmas. I've got to get creative with frugal overtones! But, lots and lots of love! And thankfulness. God has blessed me so very much.

I can't wait for our Christmas musical at church. They always do a super, super job! Emily is singing a special, O Holy Night. I'm very excited! Jennifer and Jessica (beautiful altos) always do a super job also. I would like to take credit for all this talent, but, alas, I cannot. I see more talent coming up in all our grandchildren; art, music, drama, dance, sports, games, curiosity, loving, caring, helping,.........
Oops, I'm about to get into da grandma mode. Hey! This is da grandma's blog, so I'm entitled, okay?

~Later

I'm a tree

2007-11-26T13:28:00.000-06:00

You Are a Tree

You love every part of the holidays, down to the candy canes and stockings. And you're goofy enough to put a Christmas tree ornament on your tree!

What Christmas Ornament Are You?

The joke's on me!

2007-11-23T18:46:00.000-06:00

What good is a blog if you can poke fun at yourself? Hence, the following story.

My cookware is very heavy so I have been leaving some of the pieces on the counter so I don't have to get down on my knees to dig it out of the cabinet. Sara and Chloe spent the night with us Friday night and I was making tuna helper for supper. I had it on and simmering and took the lid for the big skillet off the counter and put it on top. I also had some wicker paper plate holders sitting about that I sometimes use as trivets. After the allotted time I went to stir the pot, and there to my astonishment was a paper plate holder, simmering away in my tuna helper. I had obviously placed the lid over the wicker on the counter and it stuck. I let out a squeal and I thought Sara was going to fall out of her tree with laughter. Did you know you can put wicker in the dishwasher? It was one of those "had to be there" moments.

I've been daydreaming!

2007-11-20T09:15:00.000-06:00

My days (as I always complain) seem to be speeding down the slippery slope of time. There doesn't seem to be any place to grab hold and hang on. My good intentions are plentiful but I don't seem to be accomplishing many of them. The fact that Thanksgiving is two days away is not only mindboggling, it's got me worried that Christmas may escape my grasp completely. There are things I need to make. There are things I need to cook. Their are things that need doing. Does the Lord not get tired of my constant whining? Surely, He does. (I do!) I don't know why He doesn't just zap me up 'side the head. He knows what a total mess I am, so why didn't He just make me into a better model, and give me more drive, and energy, and character, and all that other good stuff? Oh, the agony of it all!

Enough of this. I must go and assemble candy cane handouts for the Christmas parade. And make things.... And cook things.... And do things.... ~Later

Sisters

2007-11-17T17:24:00.000-06:00

Time passes.
Life happens.
Distance separates.
Children grow up.
Jobs come and go.
Love waxes and wanes.
Men don't do what they're supposed to do.
Hearts break.
Parents die.
Colleagues forget favors.
Careers end.
BUT.........
Sisters are there,
no matter how much time and how
many miles are between you.
A girl friend is never farther away
than needing her can reach.
When you have to walk that lonesome valley and you
have to walk it by yourself, the women in your life
will be on the valley's rim, cheering you on,
praying for you, pulling for you, intervening on
your behalf, and waiting with open arms at the
valley's end.
Sometimes, they will even break the rules and walk
beside you...Or come in and carry you out.
Girlfriends, daughters, granddaughters,
daughters-in-law, sisters, sisters-in-law, Mothers,
Grandmothers, aunties, nieces, cousins, and extended
family, all bless our life!
The world wouldn't be the same without women, and
neither would I. When we began this adventure called
womanhood, we had no idea of the incredible joys or
sorrows that lay ahead. Nor did we know how much we
would need each other.
Every day, we need each other still.
Pass this on
to all the women who help make your life meaningful.
I just did.

Oh, the humiliation! A Hippy!

2007-11-13T15:32:00.000-06:00

What Your Pizza Reveals

You have a hearty appetite. You are likely to complain if a restaurant has small portions.

You are a very picky pizza eater. Not any pizza will do. You fit in best in the Northeast part of the US.

You like food that's traditional and well crafted. You aren't impressed with "gourmet" foods.

You are generous, outgoing, and considerate with your choices.

You have many conflicting and complementary layers to your personality. You should consider traveling to Australia.

The stereotype that best fits you is hippie. You knew it was coming.

What Does Your Pizza Say About You?

2007-11-12T23:34:00.000-06:00

A Monday. Halfway through November. I give up. Time is simply in a whirl. I have no control over anything. Thank goodness, God is in control! I don't know what I'm doing, but He does.

~Later

Jessica just took the Sesame Street Personality Test!

2007-11-09T13:47:00.000-06:00

And she is thrilled with the results!!

You Are Ernie

Playful and childlike, you are everyone's favorite friend - even if your goofy antics get annoying at times.

You are usually feeling: Amused - you are very easily entertained

You are famous for: Always making people smile. From your silly songs to your wild pranks, you keep things fun.

How you life your life: With ease. Life is only difficult when your friends won't play with you!

The Sesame Street Personality Quiz

I hate trying to think of titles for this Blog!

2007-11-07T22:45:00.000-06:00

[Caution: This entry has been edited from the original. Detail has been added!]

No problems at dialysis today.(Detail: No bleeding) I wrote a letter(Detail: To Marsha), did puzzles(Detail: crosswords and crytoquizzes), got real sleepy(Detail: as in couldn't hold my head up) towards the end (Detail: the last 30 min). Came home (Detail: you know, the place I live). Ate (Detail: a Mexican pizza). Checked email (Detail: funnies, church news, etc.) When Sara (Detail: you know, the heir to the throne) got here from school (Detail: the high school at the end of the street)we went for a walk (Detail: for a whole mile), and afterwards we went to Wallie World (Detail: Wal-Mart) to pick up a couple of things (Detail: marshmallows and graham cracker stix) for the women's retreat(Detail: at our church) Friday night. Went to church (Detail: at 5:15 for supper and then bible study). Came home (Detail: that place I live again). Went back to Wallie World (Detail: with EMILY who had some quick shopping to do)(More detail: that's EMILY, da kid! The person I hang out with almost DAILY. Who takes care of me and sees that I get into as much mischief as possible!) Came home again (Detail: you know). That was my day. So, okay, I have edited my post and added the important detail. Is this sufficient?

~Later

I Totally Disagree - except for the crazy eyes thing!

2007-11-07T08:44:00.000-06:00

You Are Cookie Monster

Misunderstood as a primal monster, you're a true hedonist with a huge sweet tooth.

You are usually feeling: Hungry. Cookies are preferred, but you'll eat anything if cookies aren't around.

You are famous for: Your slightly crazy eyes and usual way of speaking

How you life your life: In the moment. "Me want COOKIE!"

The Sesame Street Personality Quiz

Life

2007-11-01T23:50:00.000-05:00

Life just goes by too quickly. For so very long we think we have all the time in the world to do whatever it is we want to do in life. Then all of a sudden time is flying by and for one reason or another you realize that you are not going to be able to do a lot of those things. So, what should you be doing? I'm not sure I know. Love your family, try to take care where you can, and do the best you can. Even when you feel it isn't enough. As you can tell, I'm in "a mood." I could so easily crawl into a hole somewhere, but . . . . . that isn't allowed. So I struggle on. Tomorrow is another day and some unknown adventure awaits around the next corner. ~Later

2007-10-30T12:55:00.000-05:00

There just isn't much to blog about today. I should be catching up on some stuff but, I'm in a zombie mode. I do have an appt. to get my hair done in a bit. I've tried to let it grow out and see if there is any way I could fix it au nat.u.rall but it's a disaster. I can't stand it any more.

~Later

Pizza and Rook

2007-10-27T09:45:00.000-05:00

Just got a call from our friends in Huntsville. They are coming up today to their place in the country. We're going down for pizza and a game of rook tonight. Always a fun evening with them. I'm hoping to make some more headway in my decluttering, cleaning, organizing today, especially in the family room. Janie and I got the craft closet cleaned out (mostly) and I'm cleaning out cabinets, closets, etc. So now I must find places for everything I want to keep and adoptive homes for the rest.

I am thinking of some new items to put on the blog. I thought maybe a craft link with pictures of some of the things I've done. And maybe one for the sale of rubber stamps and supplies that need new homes. Whadayathink?

~Later

Captain's Courageous

2007-10-23T18:48:00.000-05:00

We were pretty worn out when we arrived in Crossville Friday. We did make it to the musical on Saturday morning, and it was excellent! Sara and I both needed hankies. They always amaze me with their ingenuity and creativity. The young boy who played the part of the spoiled brat gave an outstanding performance and they said it was the first time he had ever played anything! The autograph I got from him may be worth money some day.

Sunday was our church's 55 anniversary. It was a great day. We had lunch under a tent. The weather was gorgeous! But, I could hardly eat. I did take a loritab so for a few minutes I felt really good. It just didn't last. Oh well.......

~Later

2007-10-19T14:43:00.000-05:00

We're leaving this afternoon (with Sara) to go to Crossville. In the morning we're going to see a play, Captain's Courageous! There are two versions out on video that I know of and they are both good, but my favorite is the older black and white. This is one of mine and Sara's favorite "hanky movies"! I promised her we would go see it a good while back and this is the only day we could work it out. Gotta run! ~Later

Wed. nite-Thurs. morn.

2007-10-17T16:11:00.000-05:00

The week is half over! Time sure flies when you're having fun. Yesterday was the trip to the dentist. That was fun. LOL He put the steel posts into my implants and I have to go back tomorrow (Thurs.)for more work. I think after that I will be through (unless I need a touch up) with the work I started almost a year ago. I may actually be able to eat like a normal person.

Had a great adventure hiking in the woods on the way home Tues. I've always wondered what it was like in the deep woods through a steep hilly terrain. Now I know! I didn't run across any wildlife (except Emily). That would have been neat. But, then, I'm glad I didn't run into any bears or wildcats! A possum or armadillo would have been interesting. :) Or maybe deer. Enjoying the landscape and a little stream that wound its way through the gulleys and over cliffs was fantastic. I look forward to doing it again.

~Later

Monday October 15

2007-10-15T21:34:00.000-05:00

What a week I have in store. Mon., Wed., and Friday I have dialysis. Tuesday and Thursday I go to the dentist in Nashville. Wed. night is church and Friday William and I and Sara are leaving after dialysis to go to Crossville. We will spend the night and then go to the Cumberland Playhouse at 11:00 Sat. to see Captain's Courageous. This has been one of mine and Sara's favorite hanky movies! We are so excited to be seeing it!!
We are having to leave around 6:00 in the morning. Arrrgh! Thank the Lord, Emily has a two day break from college and is taking me to my appointment. Dad will take me Thursday. It's after lunch that day.
I'll finish this later. ~

End of another week!

2007-10-12T15:04:00.000-05:00

This morning went well. Janie went with me to dialysis and her aunt Jessica picked her up about 10:00-10:30. They went to have lunch with Aunt Jennifer at one of their favorite restuarants. Jessica went to work at 1:00 so she brought her back to me just about time I was finished. She's resting now til I get some lunch. Then it's back to work. I think we might see if we can get the library straightened up a little. We made a major dent in the craft closet so I'd like to work in the library and then we can decided what else we want to spend the remainder of our time on. Wish us luck! ~Til later........

a project . . .

2007-10-10T13:55:00.000-05:00

I am so excited. Grand daughter, Janie, is coming tonight to spend a few days with me! We're going to work on some "cleaning" projects that are badly needed. I've chosen two. One is the craft closet and the other is the library! Either one could take weeks alone to completely do. But, I think I am going to sequester myself til I get them done. I covet your prayers - for the job-ers and the job-ees! LOL For stamina, for strength, for determination, for fun. Or for anything you deem appropriate. God knows our needs! Life just has a way of not turning out like you always thought it would, doesn't it?

Senior Moments, Senior Life

2007-10-06T09:43:00.000-05:00

Today's cartoon is in honor of daughter, Jessica!

I've lost this whole week, it seems. But how many times does anyone want to read the samo samo every day? The week went fairly well (see details in 'a journal'. Haven't seemed to accomplish anything. I wanted to go to Elizabeth's yard sale today but just don't feel up to it. ~Later

INCREDIBLE FAMILY!

2007-10-02T21:53:00.000-05:00

What a weekend!!

2007-10-01T13:51:00.000-05:00

Friday Sara, Chloe and Delaney spent the night so their parents could enjoy a child-free weekend. Saturday noon Elizabeth, Janie, Katie and Libby came to pick them up to spend the night with them and they left around one, I think. Around 9:00ish Becky, William and Jonathan came for a visit. At 3:00 PM they headed for home. I partially down-sized my craft/decoration closet by sending enough home with Becky to help decorate for Thanksgiving! Whooo Whooooo!!!! Who wants to get to the Christmas decor first? heehee!

I had just enough time to get ready for our dinner engagement, aka Emily's 19th birthday celebration. Yummy!! A scrumptious German meal and then German red velvet cake with German vanilla bean ice cream. They do have that in Germany, right?

Elizabeth brought the girls back for church Sunday and Chloe and Delaney went home with their other grandparents. Sara spent the night with us again Sunday night so she could make it to school Mon. morning. We had a great time watching and laughing at "Guarding Tess". Elizabeth and the girls spent the afternoon and helped out a lot. Not a dull moment was incurred during this whole weekend!

Tuesday Tidings

2007-09-25T20:46:00.000-05:00

We had a busy weekend, especially Sunday. We went to Florence to church to see William Isaac baptized. It was really special. Then we all went out to eat at Ryan's. We got back home just in time to go to church again.

I'm trying to get back to walking. I was doing 2 miles three days a week when I started dialysis. Now I can just make it around the block. But, I'll keep trying. It really makes a difference.

I've not kept up too well with my posting as of late. I'm really not accomplishing anything anywhere. It's beginning to get dark a little earlier these days. The weather is beginning to change, and I'm beginning to get that old feeling. Hopefully it is a passing thing. ~later

2007-09-25T19:07:00.000-05:00

Tuesday -

2007-09-11T11:47:00.000-05:00

It is raining and much cooler than the recent 100+* drought we've had. I'm thankful for the rain and cooler temperatures, but not for the change that causes joint pain.

Birthday Boy!

2007-09-10T20:08:00.000-05:00

Saturday we had supper with friends, Dot and Dennis, and played rook. That is always fun. Sunday at church was great. The choir did a fantastic job! Afterwards we met at Jennifer's house to celebrate Jonathan's 5th birthday. All the aunts, uncles and cousins were there........and it rained!! So everyone was inside most of the time. Mass fun and hysteria! I think it was a fun day for the birthday boy.

A Hectic Day

2007-09-07T08:45:00.000-05:00

Dialysis called and wants me in early. (I'm eating as I type) So I'm trying. I've got an appt. at the bone and joint clinic at 2:20 so I'll have to go straight from dialysis. Gotta run. Catch you later~

I'm Back!

2007-09-06T20:45:00.000-05:00

We really made a day of it. The play was a box lunch affair, sort of a matinee for seniors. The lunch was okay; chicken salad on a croissant, potato salad, fruit and a dessert square. There was a delay with the play. One of the actors overslept and evidently his clock had quit working, so we had to wait for him to get there and into his costume. That was a first! The play wasn't my favorite. That's all I'm going to say about that. Afterwards we went to the Galleria Mall. Found some great bargains at Penneys. And we ate supper before coming home. Could you ever guess? Yup, Cracker Barrel. It was a good day, and I'm ready for a good night's sleep. ~Later

Off for the Day!

2007-09-06T08:56:00.000-05:00

We really need a cell phone. William and I are going to a dinner theatre today, or maybe I should say lunch theater, with some friends of ours, Dot and Dennis. Try not to miss us. We always have a very enjoyable time with them. They are on vacation this week. So, I am gone for now. ~Later

At the moment this is my favorite picture of Garfield.

2007-09-05T08:46:00.000-05:00

I can so identify with him! But I must go. Pray for me.

~Later

Don't know which end is up!

2007-08-31T14:24:00.000-05:00

I'm sure it gets very boring reading the same thing all the time BUT - Where did the week go?

How confusing. Where am I? Who am I?

Nothing new going on here. I must go to the grocery later and get the stuff for two broccoli casseroles for the lunch we are preparing to have after two funerals tomorrow. Guess I need to go ahead and shop for lunch Sunday. My email isn't sending out mail although I can get mail in. Very frustrating. Keep writing me even if you don't hear from me, okay? ~Later