DeeDee's Diary

A girl's room is her castle.

2010-12-26T07:24:00.003-05:00

Is there any space more inviting? This is my granddaughter's room...newly redecorated ~ and a surprise reveal at that ~ I loved my room growing up. I still remember the canopy bed, the triple dresser, the dressing table and the gold knocker on the door. I had wide pine wood floors and a white eyelet lace canopy and spread to match. I had milk glass lamps on the dresser and a turquoise princess phone. The walls were yellow for most of my life...the doors were a natural wood and the closet had double doors. I loved my room. Funny, I don't remember having anything on the walls...you know, posters, pictures...hmm..I had two windows...the bed took up one wall...the closet with the double doors and the door to get in took up one wall...the triple dresser took up a good part of another wall. Odd...no memory of the walls except they were yellow. I remember my friend Nancy and I eating Oreos and diet pepsi and laughing...I have seen FB photos of Hannah and her friends doing the same thing.

Thankful Train

2009-11-08T17:28:00.002-05:00

I'll get on the "Thankful Train"...first stop...Loving Parents...a great brother...a fun neighborhood to grow up in....good schooling...unconditional love of entire family and many friends...a terrific job at Delta...second stop....Robin...all summed up in one beautiful daughter...she is smart, funny, creative, loving, loyal, dependable...much much more...third stop....Jason....God blessed me at a time in my life when I was low...he blessed me with a wonderful husband ~ who prayed for me and loves me still....next stop....a wonderful son-in-law...and current stop...Hannah and Jacob...They are truly the biggest blessing of all.

Thanks, Melissa ~ for reminding me of all that I, too, have to be thankful for. So much more...but another time.

Love and Faith

2009-09-12T18:06:00.002-04:00

What a great title for two of my favorite people. One came into my life 30 years ago and has been my best friend ever since. God had a plan. Did I ever share it with you? Jason and I went to High School together. He was in the class ahead of me. In a small high school you know everyone...people didn't move around like they do today. I knew Jason, he had quite a reputation, but we ran in different crowds. In 1971 he and I were in a wedding together. He was best friends with the groom and I was best friends with the bride. We sat together at the rehearsal dinner and I told him I was engaged. Later he told me his thoughts were ...oh well...there's another pretty girl no longer available. In 1979 we were reintroduced through the same couple...I visited them in South Florida and Jason and I went on a "blind" date. He shares that he was praying for a wife...and when he heard I was visiting Valerie..he KNEW that I was the woman he had been praying for. He thought back to the last time he saw me...the rehearsal dinner...and he remembered my "beautiful green eyes". That was in August, 1979. We were married in March, 1980. I have always thought that was SO ROMANTIC. I still do. I make him tell me every year. I think he likes to tell me, too. The second person came into my life in 1995. Hannah "Itabit" O'Donnell. She has been a blessing from the first time I held her in my arms. She continues to bless me. So beautiful, so bright, so full of life.
Ask me if I am rich and I will always say yes. Rich in family...God has truly blessed me beyond measure.

2009-09-10T21:00:00.002-04:00

We just returned from a relaxing week in Pigeon Forge/Gatlinburg compliments of Robin and Michael ~ my 58th Birthday Week. They reserved a one bedroom condo at a resort in PF and we used that as our home base all week. We really enjoyed our visit to Cades Cove...a definite must on any tour of the area. We visited twice. We also had a delicious dinner in Helen Georgia on our way up to Tennessee. It was reminiscent of my childhood...good home cooked German food....we ordered KING LUDWIGS FEAST FOR TWO and got a taste of everything...so Yummy. I will post photos another time.

The Cove is best seen via Cades Cove Loop Road, which is a one way paved lane that skirts the bottoms of the forested mountains which surrounds the fields of the valley floor. The Loop Road takes Smokies vacationers on a historical tour of early pioneer farms, fields, roads and trails. We left the Smokie's with the feeling that we witnessed something wonderful and wholesome.

We also discovered Roaring Fork Nature Trail, a similar loop road in Gatlinburg. Both areas are filled with History and wildlife. I did see, after much whining and praying...2 bears....many deer and some wild turkeys.

We were fortunate to be able to hear one of the park rangers speak at one of our stops. Very interesting. We also visited the Artists Community in Gatlinburg. We were thrilled to find this ~ away from the commercial downtown touristy area...met some of the local artists who explained that they all moved out of the downtown years ago...this community of approximately 100 artists was well worth the visit. We also enjoyed the Old Mill area of Pigeon Forge. The restaurant was outstanding.

We had perfect weather, good food, quality time together. A most enjoyable, well needed vacation and the perfect BIRTHDAY WEEK.

We visited the Georgia Guidestones

2009-07-30T20:11:00.002-04:00

On one of the highest hilltops in Elbert County, Georgia stands a huge granite monument. Engraved in eight different languages on the four giant stones that support the common capstone are 10 Guides, or commandments. That monument is alternately referred to as The Georgia Guidestones, or the American Stonehenge. Though relatively unknown to most people, it is an important link to the Occult Hierarchy that dominates the world in which we live.

The origin of that strange monument is shrouded in mystery because no one knows the true identity of the man, or men, who commissioned its construction. All that is known for certain is that in June 1979, a well-dressed, articulate stranger visited the office of the Elberton Granite Finishing Company and announced that he wanted to build an edifice to transmit a message to mankind. He identified himself as R. C. Christian, but it soon became apparent that was not his real name. He said that he represented a group of men who wanted to offer direction to humanity, but to date, almost two decades later, no one knows who R. C. Christian really was, or the names of those he represented. Several things are apparent. The messages engraved on the Georgia Guidestones deal with four major fields: (1) Governance and the establishment of a world government, (2) Population and reproduction control, (3) The environment and man's relationship to nature, and (4) Spirituality.

In the public library in Elberton, I found a book written by the man who called himself R.C. Christian. I discovered that the monument he commissioned had been erected in recognition of Thomas Paine and the occult philosophy he espoused. Indeed, the Georgia Guidestones are used for occult ceremonies and mystic celebrations to this very day. Tragically, only one religious leader in the area had the courage to speak out against the American Stonehenge, and he has recently relocated his ministry.

THE MESSAGE OF THE GEORGIA GUIDESTONES

1. Maintain humanity under 500,000,000 in perpetual balance with nature.
2. Guide reproduction wisely - improving fitness and diversity.
3. Unite humanity with a living new language.
4. Rule passion - faith - tradition - and all things with tempered reason.
5. Protect people and nations with fair laws and just courts.
6. Let all nations rule internally resolving external disputes in a world court.
7. Avoid petty laws and useless officials.
8. Balance personal rights with social duties.
9. Prize truth - beauty - love - seeking harmony with the infinite.
10.Be not a cancer on the earth - Leave room for nature - Leave room for nature.

Limiting the population of the earth to 500 million will require the extermination of nine-tenths of the world's people. The American Stonehenge's reference to establishing a world court foreshadows the current move to create an International Criminal Court and a world government. The Guidestones' emphasis on preserving nature anticipates the environmental movement of the 1990s, and the reference to "seeking harmony with the infinite" reflects the current effort to replace Judeo-Christian beliefs with a new spirituality.

The message of the American Stonehenge also foreshadowed the current drive for Sustainable Development. Any time you hear the phrase "Sustainable Development" used, you should substitute the term "socialism" to be able to understand what is intended. Later in this syllabus you will read the full text of the Earth Charter which was compiled under the direction of Mikhail Gorbachev and Maurice Strong. In that document you will find an emphasis on the same basic issues: control of reproduction, world governance, the importance of nature and the environment, and a new spirituality. The similarity between the ideas engraved on the Georgia Guidestones and those espoused in the Earth Charter reflect the common origins of both.

Yoko Ono, the widow of John Lennon, was recently quoted as referring to the American Stonehenge, saying:

"I want people to know about the stones ... We're headed toward a world where we might blow ourselves up and maybe the globe will not exist ... it's a nice time to reaffirm ourselves, knowing all the beautiful things that are in this country and the Georgia Stones symbolize that. " (1)

What is the true significance of the American Stonehenge, and why is its covert message important? Because it confirms the fact that there was a covert group intent on

(1) Dramatically reducing the population of the world.
(2) Promoting environmentalism.
(3) Establishing a world government.
(4) Promoting a new spirituality.

Certainly the group that commissioned the Georgia Guidestones is one of many similar groups working together toward a New World Order, a new world economic system, and a new world spirituality. Behind those groups, however, are dark spiritual forces. Without understanding the nature of those dark forces it is impossible to understand the unfolding of world events.

The fact that most Americans have never heard of the Georgia Guidestones or their message to humanity reflects the degree of control that exists today over what the American people think. We ignore that message at our peril.

The Un-Cincinnati Trip

2009-07-18T21:05:00.004-04:00

Every year Hannah and Jacob and I travel to Cincinnati for a week to visit relatives...this summer we ran into a few snags...we decided to take an UN CINCINNATI Trip. Unfortunately....Jacob got sick on the day of departure so it was PaPa, DeeDee and Hannah for this adventure. Sit back, enjoy the video...If you run your mouse over the slide you will see our comments.

Friday -
9:00 AM: Pick Up Hannah
9:15 AM: Breakfast Buffet - Shoneys
10:00 AM: Fun Station - PUTT PUTT GOLF
HOME
11:00 AM: Bedfellows - UNSUCCESSFUL ATTEMPT AT PERFUME
1:00 PM: Bath and Body Works - SUCCESS 3 for 10
2:00 PM: MOVIE
4:30 PM: ICE CREAM
4:35 PM: Photo Op...Hannah and I posed in one of those mall photo machines...very funny.
4:45 PM: Visited QUEST...stopped in Bealls and waited out a THUNDERSTORM
6:00 PM: Cincinnati Chili
6:30-closing - REBA
10:30 PM: Walmart Run for contact solution - Hannah

Saturday -
11:00 AM: Breakfast - Waffle House (Hannah slept in) PaPa, DeeDee and Hannah
11:30 AM: The Antique Car Museum - sidebar ...areas of the museum are motion censored for lighting...including the BATHROOM....not a good idea....just after DeeDee and Hannah were "seated", the lights went off and we were in COMPLETE DARKNESS...again...NOT A GOOD IDEA. 'nuf said!
3:00 PM: The Grey Fox - VERA BRADLEY FIX
4:30 PM: Happy Hour...don't get excited...I DID...but this was at SONIC
5:00 PM: IMAX Theatre for STAR TREK...PaPa joined up with us again
8:00 PM: Dinner at Steak n Shake

More to follow...

Good Looking Grandkids...

2009-07-12T14:14:00.000-04:00

I couldn't have picked two better looking grandkids. Wouldn't you all agree? This was taken in Daytona Beach Summer 2009.

Mountain Wedding

2009-07-02T18:43:00.004-04:00

A trip to the mountains is always refreshing and this week was no exception. In addition to the cooler temperatures and quality time spent with dear friends, we were able to join in the celebration of marriage of Jason and Kat Spradling. It was a beautiful ceremony, reception and testimony of God's love. I am so thankful we were able to attend.

Another Day in Paradise...or A Day in the Life of a Delta Supervisor!

2009-06-08T19:39:00.003-04:00

Where's Waldo?

The names have been changed to protect the innocent...Saturday I received a call from one of my agents..."We lost a cat". He was "tiggery" (as in T-I-double G-E-R) and bouncing around in his kennel when suddenly the side of the kennel blew out and the cat was on the RUNWAY. Two or three of the employees chased him as far as they could. They searched for over an hour and then spotted him dashing back toward the terminal and jumping into a drain. Animal rescue was notified, they placed a trap with a large can of tuna inside and hoped for the best. This morning I asked one of the ramp employees to show me where the trap was set. We walked over and there he was...inside the trap....tuna can empty...search and rescue was over. We notified his owner and made arrangements for his flight home. Delta provided a "proper" kennel and "Waldo" was on his way home. Another day in the life of an airline supervisor.

When plans fall through...

2009-05-16T17:29:00.002-04:00

What do you do? Jason and I had plans to travel to South Florida this weekend for a reunion with some folks from our old church. Didn't work out...so we lounged in the pool, went to play pool on Friday night, ate at Shane's Rib Shack...more about that later...and then today after lounging in the pool again, we went to The Parade of Homes. We saw three homes but only one really impressed. It was a remodel...$1,200,000.00 in Golden Eagle. Then Mexican for dinner, golf on TV and back to our routine tomorrow. Floating in the pool all afternoon Friday was the perfect therapy...I told Jason it was my "mental health" day. Work has been wild with the DL/NW Merger Integration. So much training, so much to do to be ready. I really needed a break. I think staying at the Clearview Court B&B was the best weekend retreat. It was certainly the most stressfree get-a-way. So next time your plans fall through...look for the blessing in whatever you do.

Siblings

2009-05-02T07:07:00.002-04:00

Seeing Melissa's post with the 3 kids on the couch brought back memories of times with my brother. He was the best brother. Well for one thing...he was so generous. On Halloween, back in the day when we still celebrated this...and honestly, the only thing we were celebrating was the loot we brought home...he would take one or two candy bars and give me the rest. I do remember being so mean to him. One time I hit him over the head with a toy rifle and when he started bleeding I knew I was in big trouble...he must have done something to make me do that, right? I used to complain at the table that he chewed too loud. I never wanted him in my room...so he used to do this little toe tap at the door....just to irritate me. Thinking back, he really had a sense of humor and certainly knew how to push my buttons. He was a really good baseball player, honestly, I tell people that had life changing circumstances not occurred, he might have been a major league player. He was that good. He could FIRE a pitch over the plate. He could also fire an apple right into the neighbors tent when they camped out in the back yard. Scared them to death. Funny. I think about him often now as we have attended some of Jacob's games. Mark was a star in Little League. A Star! He was handsome, too. My hometown had an annual May Fete. A big to do in town....we had a May Queen and court. The Queen and King were Seniors, but the court consisted of couples from 1st grade up to 11th grade. Mark was elected to be in the "court". Only the cutest boys and the cutest girls were chosen. He was a great card player. We played a game called concentration. Don't remember all of the rules, but you needed a good memory to play and he always beat me. He was so bright. Mark liked building models. He would take the most detailed ones and complete them. Every detail complete. His best, I think, were the Cutty Sark and the USS Constitution. He painted the little figures, had all the ropes and rigs - just amazing. He had to use tweezers for the tiniest parts. I recall one vacation we went on - we stayed at a Holiday Inn and he and I decided that they made the best scrambled eggs. When we got home we started making our eggs like the Holiday Inn. I think mom always did scrambled eggs in one big flat flop, but we would stir them all around to get the little chunks. Sounds so silly now. We used to chase each other through the house...One time he was chasing me and I was slamming doors behind me as I went...and the last door was to the bathroom and I slammed my thumb in the door. YIKES.We always had kittens...one was named "Nicky" because Mark had heard about "clipping ears" and he took scissors and Clipped the kitten's ear. He loved snakes and had a pet boa. What was my mom thinking? That thing scared me. Mark is a gentle giant in my mind. As the years have gone by, I have appreciated him more and more. I thank God for giving me Mark. Hand picked to be my brother. No coincidence..that God chose him for me.

Easter Sunday 2009

2009-04-19T14:38:00.000-04:00

Jacob (12), Jason (aka PaPa), Sara (aka DeeDee), Hannah (14)

Resurrected Photos

2009-04-13T11:37:00.003-04:00

Hope my title isn't considered blasphemous....

I'm in a RUT

2009-04-04T07:38:00.002-04:00

This week I have even been in a literal RUT...in my own driveway. Things are bad. OK, I'm in a rut - of menus. I eat the same things everyday, every week. I eat oatmeal everyday for breakfast. EVERY DAY! If I have bananas, I will slice 1/2 and add that. Oatmeal is good for my cholesterol and I like oatmeal, but is there something else that is equally as good for me, easy to fix? I need to get out of the oatmeal rut.
I'm in a rut - of my morning routine. OK...we are all creatures of habit...routine...but Fox News Channel and the Today show EVERY DAY. Years ago I would never watch the Today Show...I must confess I was not a fan of Katie...but Meredith I like. In fact, I feel like Fox and Friends "really" are my friends. See what I mean? A rut!
I'm in a wardrobe RUT! For years I wore uniforms. 30 Years to be exact. I was SO THRILLED when Delta decided Management at my level should wear business attire. WHOO HOO I cried. I can't afford a whole new wardrobe...and I am working at Weight Watchers so I have the same tired pair of baggy black pants - getting baggier - that's good news - but black black black and it's SPRING. Yikes, I feel like I am going to a funeral everyday.
My hair is in a rut...just ask Hannah and Robin. And I actually started laughing at Hair's To You...my hairdresser's last week. She has those hairdo magazines and I was flipping through the pages and found myself....Crystal Carrington.....anyone know who I mean? A hairdo rut. Now my hairdresser says that bobs are back in and that I just need to quit it. I should be thankful that I have such gorgeous hair. She has ordered me a new flat iron, the kind she uses and says that is "the secret"...my big round brush and blowdryer are making my current bob a 1980's Carrington. AHHHH there may be hope for this rut.
I think ruts, just like the photo ( which is NOT my driveway ) are places we get stuck and sometimes we just don't know how to get out. Sometimes it seems like a habit or a routine and we get comfortable...and then one day you wake up and you realize - this is rut. I need to get un stuck. Is anyone relating to this?
I guess a routine is not a rut when we are still enjoying it. I am just thinking out loud. I was thinking about Robin's Emily...I always refer to her that way...she has been cruising this winter...I love her blogs and photos. I need to go on a cruise...I need to get away...only my finances are in a rut. LOL.
I will end this now. I am ending on a good note...I'm laughing at myself. I've been in ruts before. I am 57 years old...I know there's a way out. Thanks for letting me post! Are you in any ruts????????

A longing...

2009-03-28T12:03:00.002-04:00

I'm longing for a simpler life...my mom's life...not exactly...but let me explain. All I ever wanted was to be a housewife and mother. It sounds even more attractive now...when life has become so hard. I've even thought about selling everything and using the money to build a nice addition onto Robin's house, quitting my job...using my monthly retirement money for personal spending money and being the O'Donnell's housewife and "house mom". I could clean, do laundry,iron, watch my soap operas...cook dinner. Have everything sparkling and comfortable when Robin and Michael and the kids come home for the evening. I could act as "personal assistant" and keep their activity calendars...After cleaning up the dinner dishes, I could retreat through my french doors to my end of the house and plan the following day's menu, while watching Dancing with the Stars. I would wear an apron...I would pack lunches in neat little lunch boxes...I would always be home when the bus arrived after school. I would run errands, attend ALL the kids activities. I haven't figured out what I would do with Jason....LOL...but this idea is still in the planning stages,

Seriously, though, think about how the roles have changed in such a short amount of time. 1950's...Ozzie and Harriet, Mrs. Cleaver, Lucy Ricardo...the mom's were AT HOME. Who convinced us that was not enough? As a single parent, in earlier years, I understand the need to provide...but I got used to the role and then felt trapped in it. Don't completely misunderstand...I always loved my job and all the opportunities that it provided, I am so thankful for all of the wonderful people I have met because of it. I have learned so much about myself and how to deal with people...but honestly, my dream was always to be a housewife and mother. That's it.

Yesterday I was driving around the airfield with one of the airport Safety Managers. We were looking at space that Delta will lease to store catering supplies for our new South Florida service that begins from Tallahassee to Ft Lauderdale, Orlando and Tampa...anyway...we got on the subject of the Explorer he was driving. It has only one door with a key lock, it's the driver door. So..he said, " Well it makes it impossible to open the door for a lady." And I said, "No, it just means that you have to unlock the door on the driver side first and then walk around and open the door for the lady and then walk back and get in on the driver side". He said what about Women's Lib. And that's when I said.....I am NOT A WOMEN'S LIBBER...not in any sense of the word. NO NO NO. We laughed, but I was serious.

What about you?

Springtime in Tallahassee

2009-03-24T07:08:00.001-04:00

This is my favorite time of year in Tallahassee. Azaleas blooming everywhere. Brilliant PINKS. The fragrance in town is delightful, all the birds are singing...the skies are bright blue...it's like a "do over" ...we get a fresh start.

Hope you northern readers are thawing out, too.

29th Wedding Anniversary

2009-03-12T21:53:00.003-04:00

Jason and I went to Harry's downtown for our Wedding Anniversary. Had a lovely evening. I finished off my dinner with a Cafe Amaretto topped with whipped cream. YUM. This is our 2nd visit to Harry's. LOVE THE GRIT CAKES! Can't believe it's been 29 years!

Menu:
Crabmeat and Eggplant Napoleon
Crisp, fried eggplant stacked with crabmeat napoleon style and finished with
Parmesan Basil Cream Sauce.
Caesar Salad
Grilled Mahi
Served with a light lemon cream sauce.
New York Strip
Aged, center cut 12 oz. strip steak topped with roasted garlic butter and crispy fried onions.

Fried Grit Cakes with Tasso Cream Sauce!! These are INCREDIBLE!!!!

We also bought a bottle of their Hot Sauce for Jason!!

274 NE 5th Street

2009-03-07T21:13:00.000-05:00

I can't believe so many memories...MOWED DOWN.

One more time...

2009-03-04T09:23:00.002-05:00

This post is "dedicated" to Robin's friend Kimberly...

I'm adopted! For as long as I can remember I have known that I was "chosen". I was always made to feel very special. I always understood that the woman who gave me life was the vessel God used but Lucile Schumacher was "my mom". When someone learns that I'm adopted, one of the first questions they ask...Do you know your real parents? I smile and without hesitation I say, Yep...Jim and Lucile Schumacher. What makes a parent "real"? So many thoughts about this...so many years to ponder...
Two women...both with extremely difficult circumstances...first...a young single woman...in the 1950's...pregnant...second...a young married woman who learns she is sterile and cannot ever give birth. Imagine...the first woman made a very brave decision. She decided to have the baby, and give the baby up for adoption. Don't know much about her....just that she was 18....unwed...and of Protestant faith. I was born in Maple Knoll Hospital, home for unwed mothers. Do they even have those anymore? I imagine she had wonderful loving supportive parents...given her situation. The second woman...married...wanting a family....and now devastated by the news that she can never have a child of her own. But God was weaving a beautiful story ...and before the foundation of the world, He knew...He chose the perfect family for me. He couldn't have picked better parents. I cannot imagine any other life than the one I have had. And He even chose a brother for me...the perfect brother for me.
When I first read the scripture ....Having predestinated us unto the adoption of children by Jesus Christ to himself, according to the good pleasure of his will,Ephesians 1:4-6, I completely understood. I was adopted... TWICE!
Funny thing about being adopted...whenever I am asked for medical history...I put N/A....and I'm not really sure about my ancestry...people say I look like an American Indian...possible...the Miami Indian tribe was from around my hometown....some say I look Spanish...I could be...but what I know for certain...is that I am beloved, chosen and kept...I am a child of the King....And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified together.Romans 8:16-18.

When people ask where I come from...I usually answer Cincinnati...but now you know "the rest of the story"....so ....where do you come from?

Split Pea Soup

2009-02-21T16:27:00.003-05:00

I'm gonna do it. I haven't made my homemade Split Pea soup since my "back to nature" days in the early 70's. I was living in Maine and trying to understand this macrobiotic diet I was on...not by choice...but by my husband's choice. But interestingly enough I learned to make the BEST split pea and lentil soup you have ever eaten...honest! You know how certain fragrances take you back to " a place "....or how certain things remind you of times in your life...sometimes you don't want to go there...does anyone understand what I'm saying? I just couldn't make split pea soup until now. But I am really excited about it. I will let you know how it turns out.

I've Been Tagged by Robin

2009-02-14T06:17:00.002-05:00

This is the 4th photo in my picture album. Titled " 4 L's"
This is a photo of my mother and her 3 sisters. Not sure of the year, I could do some research...can usually narrow it down by wardrobe and hairdos...but for now...
Left to right....Lois, Leora, Lucile and Louise. My mom is Lucile. Lois is the youngest, Leora is the oldest and my mom and Louise are identical twins born in between. Over the years they appeared less identical...but their voices were exactly the same. If you heard them talking and couldn't actually see them (phone, etc) you would not be able to identify which one was speaking. My Grandma decided to name all her girls with an L, and because Lucile and Louise were twins...she spelled Lucile with one L... Lucile...instead of Lucille (like Lucille Ball) so that it would have the same number of letters as Louise. My mom's name was ALWAYS MISPELLED. Guess that's why she named me Sara without an H. People always spell my name SaraH, unless they know me.

Why is the title 25 Things?

2009-02-01T14:56:00.003-05:00

25 Things

1. What is your occupation right now? Performance Leader - Delta Air Lines.
2. What color are your socks right now? White with gray toes.
3. What was the last thing that you ate? Weight Watcher Mint Chip Dessert.
4. Can you drive a stick shift? Yes. Robin that was RUDE...but true...Except I think it was that I just forgot about 1st gear.
5. Last person you spoke to on the phone? Robin
6. Do you like the person who sent this to you? No one sent it to me. I saw it on Robin's blog and wanted to play.
7. How old are you today? 57
8. What is your favorite sport to watch on TV? Golf, love the scenery.
9. What is your favorite drink? Coffee and UNSWEET TEA
10. Have you ever dyed your hair? Yes, but I quit.
11. Favorite food? Anything with CHEESE
12. What is the last movie you watched? Clint Eastwood - Gran Torino at the movies, a Hallmark movie with Genie Francis on TV
13. Favorite day of the year? NEW YEAR'S DAY
14. How do you vent anger? Slam doors…eat chocolate. I don't scream.
15. What was your favorite toy as a child? Patty Playpal.
16. What is your favorite season? Fall
17. Cherries or Blueberries? Love blueberries...just discovered they are great with oatmeal.
18. Do you want your friends to e-mail you back? N/A
19. Who is the most likely to respond? I’ll take all the comments I can get….
20. Who is least likely to respond? ? N/A
21. Living arrangements: House with husband and Kitten.
22. When was the last time you cried? I cry all the time...commercials, touching stories, mushy movies...could have been anytime
23. What is on the floor of your closet? Shoes
24. Who is the friend you have had the longest that you are sending to? I still keep in touch with a friend I've had since 5th grade...and one I met in 10th grade.
25. What did you do last night? Had Robin and family over for Chili.
26. What are you most afraid of? Being alone.
27. Plain, cheese, or spicy hamburgers? Cheese….who eats plain burgers?
28. Favorite dog breed? NONE….don’t like dogs.
29. Favorite day of the week? Saturday.
30. How many states have you lived in? 4 - Ohio, Massachusetts, Maine, Florida
31. Diamonds or pearls? Diamonds. Definitely DIAMONDS!!!!!!!! Lots of them.
32. What is your favorite flower? Orhids
33. Secret vice: Not telling

Esther

2009-01-18T20:02:00.001-05:00

Looking forward to beginning a Beth Moore Bible Study on Tuesday nights. This looks like a good one. Please pray that God will speak to me, that I will be able to attend all meetings and that I will also have an opportunity to get closer to the women at Grace Church.

1975.....January 11th...A day to Remember!

2009-01-11T13:42:00.003-05:00

Thirty-four years ago....phew....It was a COLD January day. It was about 40 degrees below zero...with 4 ft of snow on the ground....a small path the width of a snow shovel led from the back door of our house to the car...a 1970 VW Beetle Bug. I waddled out of the house at about 9 am - it was a Saturday and headed for the hospital (approximately 20 miles away). I was in labor, but when the nurse asked me, as we arrived.." Are you in labor? "....I thought she was asking if the man with me was my neighbor....I yelled at her, "No, he's my husband!". Poor nurse, she must have thought I was a CRAZY woman in labor. Anyway...checked in (we had already completed a "pre-adnmission" process) and watched cartoons until about 1pm. At about that time cartoons were no longer on my mind....I was starting to experience PAIN. I had learned the breathing techniques and thankfully they helped. Robin was born "naturally" at 4:13 PM. A beautiful baby girl....6 lbs 6 1/2 oz and about 18 inches long. She was the most beautiful baby I had ever seen. PERFECT in every way. She was most certainly a blessing from God. She has continued to bless my life for 34 years. I know she now blesses many of your lives as well. Share a blessing in the comments...I know that today, Robin's birthday, is a day we all celebrate. Just knowing Robin is such a treat. I love you, Robin....I love you with all my heart....

My "Favorite" Day of the Year!

2008-12-31T08:45:00.004-05:00

January 1. Anyone who knows me...even a little....knows this about me. I LOVE the Rose Parade...I love making Jimmy Dean Sausage Balls and watching the ENTIRE PARADE...I look forward to this every year. It is also my BROTHER'S BIRTHDAY. New Year's Day was always a big deal while I was growing up. We used to spend the day at the Sheffield's. The men would watch football, the women would hang out in the kitchen. The kids ran around and did what kids do. In my parent's close circle of friends,the Sheffield's were the first family to own a COLOR TV. Yep, you heard it right....most everyone had BLACK AND WHITE TV'S...so all of my parent's close friends gathered at the Sheffield's so the men could watch football in COLOR. It's always been about the men...right? I think there was always a birthday cake somewhere in all of the food available and some mention of my brother during the day. Those friends of my parents remained throughout the years...in the latter years they called themselves the GOLDEN AGERS. I have so many fond memories of those years. Seeing the rose parade in color was as exciting as watching the Wizard of Oz and seeing Dorothy open the door to Munchkin land after the house landed. Just spectacular! Hope each of my readers enjoy their New Year's Day.
You know where I'll be....in front of my new 37" tv with a sausage ball in my mouth. CHEERS!

Christmas Eve with Robin

2008-12-28T21:48:00.002-05:00

I can always count on Robin to make our times together special. She pulled out all the stops and made a dip that tasted like buffalo wings, Cincinnati Chili Dip, veggies, fancy crackers...a pumpkin eggnog...cookies and CHOCOLATE FUDGE CHEESE...a Shrimp salad/salsa with a name that I've forgotten and had music playing softly in the background. The house was nicely decorated and we felt more like special guests than family. I included a photo of their tree. The only thing missing was the scent of pine ( artificial tree)

PaPa's "Unique" gifts

2008-12-27T13:48:00.007-05:00

PaPa usually shops last minute, which was never a problem in Boca. He had this little store he always went to...he was probably the only one who shopped there because eventually they went out of business...but Robin and I called it the little Taiwan store...he always managed to find something there...one year, he bought Robin a GLASS HEAD. I still have it. Use it to hold an antique hat. You should have seen her face when she opened it. One year when Robin got a Barbie Pool, he bought a fake plastic rat and put it "poolside". One year he bought me a Clay charcoal heater pot. We still have it. With the economy the way it is...we might need it when we can no longer pay our heating bill. This year....he bought a book for Jacob...the Dangerous Boy Book. It has all kinds of activities that ONLY BOYS would like. Experiments and such....but for Hannah and me...he bought ORCHIDS. They are really lovely. I miss PaPa's plants. He had so many neat bonsais and orchids in Boca. He built a small screened area off our kitchen...I affectionately called it "Lucy's room" after my mom (Lucile) because he made it right after she died. He filled it with beautiful fowering plants and it was the view from my kitchen window. Fragrant and lovely. I hope Hannah appreciates her orchid as much as I do mine.

A Christmas Eve Concert

2008-12-24T22:56:00.003-05:00

I just love this photo. I am not the best photographer...but this really captures a beautiful memory for me. Jacob and Jason....one lover of music and one just learning the saxophone. Jacob played so well tonight. I was so proud of him. Now I am looking forward to hearing Hannah on the clarinet and Jacob on the sax doing a duet....actually, I could join them on the electric keyboard...wait a minute....could we start DeeDee's Band? Your thoughts????

I'm a Doris...

2008-12-14T13:47:00.003-05:00

Your result for Are You a Jackie or a Marilyn? Or Someone Else? Mad Men-era Female Icon Quiz...

You Are a Doris!

You are a Doris -- "I must help others."

Dorises are warm, concerned, nurturing, and sensitive to other people's needs

How to Get Along with Me

* * Tell me that you appreciate me. Be specific.
* * Share fun times with me.
* * Take an interest in my problems, though I will probably try to focus on yours.
* * Let me know that I am important and special to you.
* * Be gentle if you decide to criticize me.
In Intimate Relationships

* * Reassure me that I am interesting to you.
* * Reassure me often that you love me.
* * Tell me I'm attractive and that you're glad to be seen with me.
What I Like About Being a Doris

* * being able to relate easily to people and to make friends
* * knowing what people need and being able to make their lives better
* * being generous, caring, and warm
* * being sensitive to and perceptive about others' feelings
* * being enthusiastic and fun-loving, and having a good sense of humor
What's Hard About Being a Doris

* * not being able to say no
* * having low self-esteem
* * feeling drained from overdoing for others
* * not doing things I really like to do for myself for fear of being selfish
* * criticizing myself for not feeling as loving as I think I should
* * being upset that others don't tune in to me as much as I tune in to them
* * working so hard to be tactful and considerate that I suppress my real feelings

So those who "really" know me....what do you think about this quiz...was it accurate?

Leftover Turkey

2008-12-06T07:59:00.001-05:00

Anyone got any good ideas for using up the LEFTOVERS? I mean New ideas...I'm tired of Turkey sandwiches and turkey and gravy over noodles...something NEW? One of the guys at work shared that he takes his leftover FRIED bird and makes a Turkey Soup. I'm not a big soup fan...I mean I do like soup, and just an FYI...if you have an Atlanta Bread Company in your town...try the Butternut Squash Soup....DELICIOUS...anyway..all you "Martha's" out there...please share. BIRD's the WORD.

I am so thankful for...

2008-11-28T12:15:00.002-05:00

...having 17 guests over to enjoy a wonderful Thanksgiving Dinner together, and a home big enough to accommodate everyone.

I made Jason take me to CVS to get a new ink cartridge for my printer...I told him I needed it for Placecards and a "special" activity for our party. I found a clipart of pilgrims...and then wrote.."I am so thankful for..." Each guest was asked to fill in the blank. After the blessing and before we sat down to eat, I read all of the cards. Family and friends was on almost every card. One person said Dark Chocolate, one said "besides my wife and Faith Hill...", one said the "Andies candies in the dish"...it was fun to see everyone's face light up when the cards were read out loud.
I am so thankful that the food was good, the fellowship sweet and that the weather cooperated. Today it is raining, but yesterday, it was GORGEOUS. I peeled off my long sleeve turtleneck and sweater vest and put on a short sleeved t shirt. We were able to sit outside on the deck and enjoy all of the blessings of family and friends.
I pray that Thanksgiving at DeeDee and PaPa's will be a TRADITION. I had hoped we would play games...that was my only regret. I thought a good old fashioned game of monopoly with the kids - or CARDS - or dominos...maybe next year.

Getting ready for Thanksgiving

2008-11-16T15:27:00.002-05:00

Yesterday, Robin and I sat for a few minutes and looked over the "menu" for our Thanksgiving Dinner. This year we will have a full house. I think at last count it was total of 17. I am so thankful for the new dining room table, and since I haven't decided the future of my old table, I will have seating for all those invited.
Jason has been making FRIED TURKEYS over the past few years...but this year he may try his smoker for the BIRD. We will have what we call "our" tradtionals...
Turkey, Stuffing, Mashed Potatoes, Sweet Potato Casserole, Green Beans, Cranberry Sauce ( Robin makes a fabulous one...but I did see a new recipe we may try this year). We will have rolls and pies. Robin is making a Brie with Pears and pecans ....yummy..and who would think we need appetizers....but it is usually a LONG DAY so I will have some "extras". I am working on a table centerpiece and trying to be creative with the place cards. There will be FOOTBALL and possibly a game of scrabble or something like Monopoly for the kids.

What have you planned for your day?

Brain Exercises

2008-11-09T14:01:00.003-05:00

What do you think about these suggestions? My friend Linda does Math puzzles, my mother in law does Crosswords, I do word games....what do you do to exercise your brain?

* Test your recall. Make a list — of grocery items, things to do, or anything else that comes to mind — and memorize it. An hour or so later, see how many items you can recall. Make items on the list as challenging as possible for the greatest mental stimulation.
* Draw a map from memory. After returning home from visiting a new place, try to draw a map of the area; repeat this exercise each time you visit a new location.
* Do math in your head. Figure out problems without the aid of pencil, paper, or computer; you can make this more difficult by walking at the same time.
* Challenge your taste buds. When eating, try to identify individual ingredients in your meal, including subtle herbs and spices.
* Take a cooking class. Learn a new way to cook. Cooking uses a number of senses: smell, touch, sight, and taste, which all use different parts of the brain.
* Create word pictures. Visualize the spelling of a word in your head, then try and think of any other words that begin (or end) with the same two letters.
* Learn a foreign language. The listening and hearing involved stimulates the brain.
* Let the music play. Learn to play a musical instrument or study music.
* Refine your hand-eye abilities. Learn a new skill that involves fine-motor skills, such as knitting, drawing, painting, assembling a puzzle, etc.
* Engage your senses. Try activities that involve as many of your senses as possible, such as gardening.
* Learn a new sport. Take up an athletic exercise that utilizes the mind and body, like golf or basketball.

For Melissa

2008-11-08T13:32:00.002-05:00

Melissa, I called Robin and told her that I had ONE MORE REASON for you to move to Tallahassee....Jo Frost. Here's the scoop....SuperNanny just finished an episode here and it aired a couple weeks ago. You may have seen the show...it was Blythe, divorced mother with a bunch of kids. Anyway...she is a local radio show host and all week they talked about the show. Long story short...every FSU Home game there is a big DOWNTOWN GET DOWN on Friday night before the game...booths, music, food...it's like pep rally for the community...well the Producers were setting up a booth to AUDITION a family for a future Supernanny. They really liked Tallahassee and they are looking for a new family. Robin said that you wanted to be on the show. SO....tell ERIC you have to move to Tallahassee. Start Packing up your stuff.

Reflections

2008-11-08T13:18:00.002-05:00

Every year when we visit David and Linda in North Carolina, we take one afternoon and drive down to Elk River Falls. We hike down and sit on the rocks, it's a quiet time...just Jason and me. It is really beautiful there.

Reflections...what do you reflect? Just something to think about. This week I got the pathology reports from my surgery. I was so nervous going in. I told Dr. Dixon that I didn't wear makeup "in case I had to cry". He just smiled and then apologized. He explained that I would have received a call and his staff would have prepared me and even suggested that Jason accompany me if there were going to be "news" that required support. All of the tissue removed was benign and I should be fine. I know the look on my face "reflected" relief, joy, calm all at the same time.
I appreciate the prayers and your faith - even when mine was weak.

I can't believe it's almost Thanksgiving. Seems like we just gathered together a short time ago. This year I am happy to report that we will have a full house. I am so thankful for the many Happy Thanksgivings I have enjoyed over the years. And I am thankful for a home that will accommodate a crowd, a daughter who is a good cook, and a family that enjoys being together.

Hannah's Eyes

2008-10-26T14:49:00.006-04:00

OK, How many photos does it take to get a good one of Hannah's new contacts? Trust me...more than the four you see here. First she crossed her eyes, then she covered her eyes, then Robin tried taking her photo in the rear view mirror....and then finally, here she is...Hannah..smiling...and her new contacts.
I am just glad I was able to join in on the BIG EVENT.

Love you guys!!!

Robin made me do it!

2008-10-23T23:45:00.001-04:00

Yesterday I had a "female" surgery....and I was told that because of the anesthesia and gas that was used to inflate an area of my body....a possible side effect - my cheeks could turn red as a result of the gas leaving my body. What do you think????
I was told the best thing to do is hydrate....need to drink a lot of water.
I told Robin I feel like BOZO THE CLOWN....and she said - POST IT.

Mars Hill Star Quarterback

2008-10-19T20:35:00.003-04:00

Certainly a highlight of our trip to North Carolina was the side trip to Mars Hill for the football game on Saturday. Here I am with the STAR Quarterback, Ricky Spradling. Mars Hill won. For those who remember Ricky back in Boca...he has grown into the nicest young man. He is a great quarterback, too. We had a fun tailgate party with the Spradlings before and after the game. I will include some additonal photos later. Just got home and must UNPACK and do laundry before returning to work tomorrow.

Attached a photo of our hosts, the Turners. Spending time with David and Linda is something we look forward to each year. Here we are at the tail gate party...FREEZING!!!!

Vacationing in North Carolina

2008-10-15T12:50:00.002-04:00

We are on our annual trip to North Carolina for my Birthday Week. I know, I know...you are saying, "your birthday was in September!" And you are right....but Delta kept me in Tallahassee the week we normally come up. This has been an adventure already. Sunday we drove from Tallahasse to Cincinnati. Stayed with my brother and family. Picked up my mother's dining room table and headed to North Carolina on Monday. We have seen some INCREDIBLE leaves....Kentucky...Tennessee and now Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina. I hope to get some good shots. I bought my first DIGITAL CAMERA....YIKES! We are invited for a HOT POT dinner at the Spradlings tonight. Jason Spradling is cooking. Will have to blog on this - have no idea what I am in for....Jason spent time in China as a missionary and brought back some wonderful recipes and has become quite the chef. My Jason and David are golfing today. I have been lazy today - except I did learn how to use the Treadmill and got a good walk in this morning while watching Rachel Ray. More later....

30 Year Delta Anniversary

2008-10-09T19:19:00.002-04:00

Today I celebrated 30 Years with Delta Air Lines. I began my career in Boston at the Reservation Sales Office on October 9, 1978. I was so excited to be a Delta employee. I worked there until May 1980 when I transferred to Miami Reservations. Being a part of a great company and working in a large call center was a wonderful experience. Traveling in those days was so much different. Does anyone remember PINK boarding cards? I know Robin does. When you got a PINK boarding pass that meant you were traveling in FIRST CLASS..and in those years that meant something. Linen Table cloth, hors d'oeurves, steak dinners, ice cream sundaes...it was really nice. In 1981, I began working in the City Ticket Offices and this is where I spent the next 20 years. It was the perfect job. I had an office on the island of Palm Beach, two blocks from Worth Avenue, 1 block from the ocean. The clientele - well you can imagine. I was just around the corner from Mar-A-Lago estate - now the Trump Estate...and The BREAKERS! Several celebs frequented my office. Brooke Shield's dad was a regular, Curt Gowdy, Frank Gifford...to name a few. Then on September 11, 2001, my life changed...just like your's did. I transferred to the Palm Beach Airport when a business decision was made to close my office. It was difficult then but I have loved the airport experience. Today I was "celebrated". My co-workers had a HUGE cake with a Delta "widget" and Balloons and cards and gift cards and then took me to Macaroni Grill for lunch. I was presented with my 30 Year Anniversary Service Pin....similar to the one I posted...except I have 1 Diamond and 2 Emeralds. A great day....as I wind down in my career, I am forever thankful for the years I have had to work for the BEST COMPANY. I have made so many wonderful life long friends, have traveled for FREE and have been able to enjoy a lifestyle that most would envy. I hope to travel more extensively before my days are through. Jason and I have never taken full advantage of my benefits. There are a few stops I'd like to make and now that Delta is a Worldwide airline, the possibilities are endless.

A Day in Havana

2008-10-05T15:30:00.004-04:00

Just blogged about the wonderful day Robin and I spent together in Havana yesterday and when I went to preview I lost everything...YIKES. So here we go again.
Spent a lovely day with Robin....started at Mockingbird Cafe for delicious chicken salad sandwiches on warmed rolls. Sat outside..gorgeous day. Then walked around the antique and furniture shops together. Robin is more "cottage" and I am more "traditional". She has an eye for decorating and I always learn something when we are together. We both appreciate fine furniture and have definite ideas about what we do and do not like. We smelled some delicious candles...admired antique applique linens and made our "dream lists" mentally. Didn't spend a dime, but imagined all kinds of purchases. It was not crowded...the day was perfect for a stroll...and the company was delightful.
Earlier in the day we watched Jacob's baseball game. He made a terrific play at 1st Base and his team won in the last inning with 2 outs and down 1 run. I am so glad we moved to Tallahassee...especially on days like this one.

Voted Best Looking at the 40th!

2008-10-04T20:55:00.000-04:00

Cincinnati Cornhole

2008-10-02T20:33:00.001-04:00

WHS Reunion Photos

2008-10-01T21:29:00.003-04:00

What fun seeing all of Jason's classmates. Because I was just a year behind....I knew everyone. We all had so much fun they are talking about a 45th reunion.

The top photo is from the Saturday night event - dinner and dance.

The bottom photo is from Century Inn on Friday night. This was a very casual get together outside...local hangout. They play cornhole and have karaoke at this place. It was a lovely night.

2008-09-30T23:12:00.004-04:00

Happy
Birthday,

Jacob...

12 YEARS
TODAY!!!

My "Favorite" Brother

2008-09-28T14:58:00.001-04:00

Mark would be my favorite even if I had another brother. This was taken at Texas Roadhouse before dinner. We were just waiting for our number to come up and I asked Julie to snap a photo.

40th High School Reunion

2008-09-24T21:59:00.003-04:00

Wyoming High School, Wyoming, Ohio. (this is now the Middle School and there is a new High School)

This past week Jason and I had the pleasure of attending his 40th High School Reunion. Yep...he was a 1968 Graduate. We had so much fun. I was in the class of '69, same school, so knew everyone. Most of the students went to school from Kindergarten through Senior Year together. Small town, many members of the same Golf Club, Church, etc. We attended the "casual" get together on Friday night at the local hang out...Century Inn. Had a tent outside, weather was perfect...which was a blessing because many in the Tri-State area ( Ohi0, Kentucky and Indiana) were without power and had trees down due to IKE. How strange for a Hurricane with 80 mph winds (no rain) to blow through Cincinnati. Just unheard of. Anyway...it was fun catching up on Friday night. Then on Saturday, Jason played golf with the guys...and there was a tour of the old High School for non-golfers. Saturday evening was the "BIG EVENT". Cocktails, Dinner, Dancing....video of the 30 year reunion party and lots of good food and conversation. I am already looking forward to my 40th - already being planned for June 2009. We were also able to spend time with my brother, Mark, and sister-in-law, Julie and niece, Alexandra, on Sunday. We stayed with Jason's mom - and I actually beat her at SCRABBLE. That, too, is unheard of. She insists it's only because she just had cataract surgery and was not at the top of her game...don't care...I'll take any win. She is sharp, has a phenomenal vocabulary and the ability to place words to always take advantage of the most points.
All in all, it was a wonderful week...we were able to fly First Class, flights on time, nice rental car and time with family and dear friends. Julie...if you are reading this blog....PLEASE EMAIL ME THE PHOTO OF MARK AND ME and I will post it on my blog. I framed it and put it in my office.

CROCS

2008-09-14T14:24:00.001-04:00

The first time I saw CROCS, I thought the same thing. I do have a pair and wear them occasionally. They are light and airy....they weigh very little...they are good in the rain....but when I saw this photo...I couldn't help but laugh. Wish I could say this was my kitty. My kitty does like my shoes....she will curl up and stick her face in my ballet slippers...but this was PRICELESS. Don't you agree?

Dreams

2008-09-13T12:11:00.003-04:00

What kind of dreams do you have?
Do you always remember them?
Do you try to analyze them?
I had a funny dream last night...I was with Robin and a group of her friends, seems like they were all a part of some group..they knew each other well...We ended up in an airplane...like the Blue Angels fly. We were all in there....don't know how we fit, but the pilot - Robin's friend from San Juan, was flying...it was great. He was swooping down for close views of the area and then zooming up and even flew upside down. I kept thinking, I hope I don't get sick and embarrass myself and Robin. I didn't. It was exhilarating....just like an amusement park ride. There were some other weird events....I was with a co-worker and needed to get ready for work, I asked if I could use her shower and she said, not until my granddaughter wakes up...because she will be upset if she misses something...I thought HOW SPOILED...but waited. My dreams seem to jump around. Or maybe they are separate dreams and I just remember them as one.
We've all dreamed of "falling" , do you catch yourself and wake up?
Have you ever thought..."this is a dream" and kept dreaming?
Have you ever been sorry you woke up because it was such a good dream?
Have you dreamed of someone you loved and lost?
Do you dream in color or black and white?
Do characters in your dreams change? ( do you start out with someone in the dream and then that person changes to someone else?)

Have you ever laughed out loud in a dream? Jason says he has heard me laughing in my sleep.

Just curious?

Boston Butt Birthday!

2008-09-07T13:07:00.004-04:00

Hey there...enjoyed a wonderful birthday. I was starting to feel sorry for myself because unlike the Purpose Driven Life...I have always thought...It's all about me! (sidebar...if you haven't read this book, I think the first sentence is "it's not about you.") For the past 13 years we have spent my "birthday week", that's right...I get a week...in North Carolina with our dear friends, David and Linda. They are true friends who have indulged me for 13 years. My birthday week has become well known to the area residents. One year, when David and Linda still owned their own grocery store - TNT Market in Elk Park , NC...they put me on their sign up on 19E for all the passers by to see..."Happy Birthday Week, Sara!". My birthday week includes a card and a present every day of the week...it's kinda like my own personal Chanukuh...anyway...this year we were unable to go for our usual end of summer trip ( had to reschedule my vacation due to work issues). I was feeling so "why me?" when I decided to take the actual day of my birth off from work. Robin invited me to lunch and we went to a neat little bistro named SAGE. It's a popular spot of one of her co-workers, so we decided to try it. It was very nice. I had the quiche and salad. I just love home baked pie crust and their's was so flakey and buttery...just the best. Just spending time with Robin is always a treat...as many of you know. Then for dinner, Jason and I tried Harry's Seafood and Bar downtown. Last year when Jason's youngest brother, Adam, visited Tallahassee, we took him to the Capitol Building. It's a must see for visitors. We went to the top floor which is glass on all sides. You can walk around and see the best view of all of Tallahassee. We noticed this neat looking area and what appeared to be a restaurant. After inquiring, it turned out to be Harry's. We finally got around to trying it and it was WONDERFUL.
I have to say...my favorite item on the menu was my "side". I ordered GRIT CAKES! Oh my gosh....had I known how scrumptious they would be...I would have skipped my entree and ordered two sides. LOL. Robin gave PaPa a cookbook one year for Christmas, I think, and I found a recipe for Grit Cakes in the book. I also discovered why I like them so much....Grits, milk, Half and Half, BUTTER and FRIED. Don't ask me how many points...
Anyway...for all those who wished me well, sang to me, sent cards, bought me meals and hugged me....Thanks!!
Last night was the TOPPING ON THE CAKE, as they say...Jason made his famous Boston Butt and the O'Donnell's joined us for one more celebration. Guess I got a "week" after all.

Still good advice

2008-08-16T20:58:00.004-04:00

How do you rate yourself on this one, Ladies?









HOW TO BE A GOOD WIFE
Home Economics High School Text Book, 1954


Have dinner ready. Plan ahead, even the night before, to have a delicious meal, on time. This is a way of letting him know that you have been thinking about him and are concerned about his needs. Most men are hungry when they come home and the prospect of a good meal are part of the warm welcome needed.

Prepare yourself. Take 15 minutes to rest so that you'll be refreshed when he arrives. Touch up your makeup, put a ribbon in your hair and be fresh-looking. He has just been with a lot of work-weary people. Be a little gay and a little more interesting. His boring day may need a lift.

Clear away the clutter. Make one last trip through the main part of the home just before your husband arrives, gather up schoolbooks, toys, paper, etc. Then run a dust cloth over the tables. Your husband will feel he has reached a haven of rest and order, and it will give you a lift, too.

Prepare the children. Take a few minutes to wash the children's hands and faces (if they are small), comb their hair, and if necessary change their clothes. They are little treasures and he would like to see them playing the part.

Minimize all noise. At the time of his arrival, eliminate all noise of the washer, dryer, dishwasher, or vacuum. Try to encourage the children to be quiet. Be happy to see him. Greet him with a warm smile and be glad he is home.

Some don'ts: Don't greet him with problems or complaints. Don't complain if he is late for dinner. Count this as minor compared with what he might have gone through that day.

Make him comfortable. Have him lean back in a comfortable chair or suggest he lie down in the bedroom. Have a cool or warm drink ready for him. Arrange his pillow and offer to take off his shoes. Speak in a low, soft, soothing and pleasant voice. Allow him to relax and unwind.

Listen to him. You may have a dozen things to tell him, but the moment of his arrival is not the time. Let him talk first.

Make the evening his. Never complain if he does not take you out to dinner or to other places of entertainment. Instead, try to understand his world of strain and pressure, his need to be home and relax.

The Goal: Try to make your home a place of peace and order where your husband can renew himself in body and spirit.

Grace Church

2008-08-10T14:56:00.006-04:00

This morning Jason and I shared our Testimonies at Grace Church and were welcomed into membership. We have not felt led to join a church since leaving Boca in 2004. We are looking forward to finding out what God has planned for us within this body of believers in Tallahassee. Please pray for us that our gifts will be exercised and that we will serve and give all the Glory to God. We have been on the sidelines for too many years now. We are more than ready to be used.
I am thankful that Robin suggested Grace Church. We know, too well, that there are no coincidences in life...this is exactly where we are supposed to serve.
Check out the website.... www.gcot.org for more information about our new Church home.
Thank you for your prayers and encouragement over the past 4 years. Your patience and perseverence have not been in vain.

More to follow

2008-08-04T19:01:00.004-04:00

This past weekend we attended the wedding of Christopher Turner and Caroline Edwards. It was a great weekend. We flew in to Tri-Cities, Tennessee and drove to Elk Park, NC. On Saturday morning I was invited to a Bridal Luncheon at the Coffee Company in Elizabethton, TN. The Bridal party and family were invited. Delicious food, cake and punch. Saturday evening we attended the Rehearsal Dinner at StoneWalls. I helped decorate in the afternoon. 50 guests attended the rehearsal. The wedding was on Sunday afternoon at 5pm. The Bride was beautiful and the ceremony especially touching. One of the Brides maids sang How Beautiful as the couple took Communion together. We were all sobbing when she began to cry. Her voice was one of an angel and the service was very moving. After the ceremony we drove up the mountain to a lodge that had a breathtaking view of Grandfather Mountain. ( see photo). The evening was cool, clear and full of dancing, good food and fun. We have known Christopher since he was a very young boy. He is now about 6'4" and all grown up. The Bride chose pink and yellow for her colors. All of the gals wore strapless gowns, a very rosey pink with silver sparkly strappy sandals. They danced to Michael Buble - You're my Everything. The cake was unbelievable...there were layers of Chocolate....vanilla with real strawberry filling and then a Strawberry cake layer. The topper was Pepe La Pew! They had a power mix in envelopes that said " Perfectly Blended" Chris and Caroline - August 3, 2008 for each guest and a framed PHOTO of themselves that each guest could sign. Monday morning we had breakfast at the Times Square Diner with the Groom's family and then headed back to Tri Cities airport for our flight home. Spending a weekend with dear friends and seeing Christopher begin his life with Caroline was so special.

Fond Memories

2008-07-27T15:27:00.002-04:00

Cadillac Mountain near Camden Maine. When Robin was 5 months old, my mother decided she would fly up for a visit. We were living in a very RUSTIC cabin at the time (another post) and so she stayed in a log cabin motel in Skowhegan, nearby town. Wanting to make her trip worthwhile...sidebar - now a grandma myself I can tell you no extracurricular activities are really necessary - the grandkids make the trip worthwhile...I decided we would rent a car and drive up the coast to Camden Maine and Cadillac Mountain. There is a beautiful photo of my mom holding Robin with this same view in her baby album. I was just thinking about this day and how nice it was to do something special with my mom and my daughter. Making memories is so special and I am so very thankful that my mom was able to make the trip. I was thinking the other day, too, that she came to every place I lived at least once...except for this home in Tallahassee. She passed away in April, 2002 and we moved her in 2004. Take time to make memories, girls...it is so important to fill your mind with happy times with family. God brings them to mind just when you need them. Isn't is just amazing how the mind is able to store so much? And we can close our eyes and remember so many scenes in our lives. Looking at photos will jog the memory, too. While on our recent trip to Cincinnati, Holly shared some old photos. I really wish I would have taken a few. There were some of her wedding back in 1974, I think. I was wearing an aqua crepe pants suite that my mother made for a Lambda Chi Alpha Dance a few years earlier. I was crowned Sweetheart that year and I had forgotten how lovely that pants suit was. Mom made several evening gowns for me - my favorite was a dark green velvet dress with rhinestone straps. I felt so glamorous. If I had a scanner and knew all of the tricks, I'd scan it and share. But let me say this...the material was $15/yd. and it took 2 yds. I remember thinking that was SOOOO expensive. It was a beautiful dress and my mom did such a professional job with every detail. I still miss my mom.
Take care to cherish the time you have with family...get out and make those memories.

Did someone say Wasabi?

2008-07-25T20:53:00.005-04:00

Tonight Jason and I decided to go on a "real date". We went to Nagasaki Steakhouse - Japanese Cuisine. What a wonderful evening. We started with Tempura Sweet Potato as an appetizer. They brought 6 little flat patties with a delightful soy"ish" dipping sauce. The meal began with Miso soup. It had a light oniony chicken flavor with mushrooms and scallions. Just yummy. Followed by a salad with iceberg lettuce and a sweet dressing that could be compared to a thousand island taste. Very nice. Shortly after we were seated, a young couple was also seated at our grill table. I was glad because this kind of restaurant is much more fun when you are with others.
Our chef was Michael. He was FANTASTIC. He began with all the fancy maneuvers - and all with a spatula and a knife. He did some tricks with eggs that he eventually scrambled for our fried rice. He also made noodles that were to DIE for...I'm glad I didn't because I ordered shrimp and scallops and they just melted in my mouth. He did serve up a ginger sauce and a seafood sauce but honestly the food was seasoned so well no sauce was really needed. Jason ordered steak and scallops. His steak was also melt in your mouth tender. One really neat trick he did was to slice a big onion, then stack it and fill it with oil. He then lit it on fire and it was like an onion volcano. Very cool. He had a great personality. All the time he was cooking, I noticed he had slipped two nice plump shrimp on the edge of the grill and I kept wondering who those were for. After he was finished preparing all of our meals, he started chopping and flattening the shrimp. When finished, he explained that he was going to catapult the shrimp and we were to catch it in our mouths. It was HILARIOUS. I was able to catch 2 out of 3. Jason did the same. Mary, the gal at our table, caught 2 and her boyfriend caught 3 out of 3. It was Mary's birthday, so we got the added pleasure of a birthday dessert and tea.
After dinner, we watched a little longer as another table was getting the same treatment. There were children at that table and the chef was "pretending" to salt them as he was seasoning the food. All in all it was a wonderful evening. The food, the service, the entertainment and the overall atmosphere made it a 5 STAR evening.
I would highly recommend Nagasaki Steakhouse to all my Tallahassee viewers. It's pricey, but worth it for a special occasion.

ooh la lift

2008-07-22T20:06:00.004-04:00

Lighten, tighten, brighten...that was what they told me the first time I learned about ooh la lift. I was in Chicago (very early post) for the American Girl Museum visit with Robin and Hannah. While in Chicago, a visit to Marshall Fields is a MUST! We were just walking in when an attractive sales representative at the Benefit Make up Counter approached and asked if we would like a makeover. Not the "extreme" makeover we all just talked about in Cincinnati...LOL...well maybe that is relative...anyway....I must have been looking very tired from our whirlwind tour of the windy city and the gal decided I needed a lift.
An ooh la lift! It is a GREAT PRODUCT. You just dab 3 little spots under your eyes and you get an immediate "lift"...no more tired look. If you combine that with their eye bright you really look like you just took a 15 minute power nap. I am serious. It's a little pricey...but worth every penny....you will need quite a few pennies. Anyway....as Melissa says...these are the things that I love.

A picture is worth a thousand words...

2008-07-20T15:12:00.012-04:00

Is there anything else to say?

History

2008-07-12T07:50:00.002-04:00

Something just occurred to me, and occasionally you all "ramble"...so here goes. It just occurred to me that once you have lived 50 plus years...you know a lot of HISTORY. Stop laughing. As a young girl I never enjoyed HISTORY. I remember classes...American History, The History of Ancient Civilization, Art History, anyway....I am becoming an Historian. I never would have thought so.
I dreaded those classes and now I know so many Jeopardy answers.

Why did you choose your china pattern?

2008-07-10T19:35:00.003-04:00

Emily's post got me thinking about my everyday china pattern. I was a junior in high school and I was invited to Chicago to visit my Aunt Leora ( my mom's older sister - see photo...
L to R ...Lois, youngest, Leora, eldest and "the twins"...my mother, Lucile and my Aunt Louise. Affectionately known as the 4 L's. Anyway...I took my first flight on American Airlines, FIRST CLASS, and flew nonstop from Cincinnati to Chicago's O'Hare Airport. Many happy memories of that trip...

They gave cigarettes in F/C in those days. I got a little package of 3 Winstons on my tray and thought I was "something else"....LOL
I was taken to the Premier of Thoroughly Modern Millie, and saw Mary Tyler Moore and Carol Channing in person. Everyone was very dressed up, it was a "red carpet Hollywood like affair".
I rode on the L
I bought a beautiful Pendleton Wool KILT at Marshall Fields
AND I fell in love with my Aunt Leora's CHINA.

I made a decision that year that when I got married, I would register for Blue Danube. I was never sorry, never changed my mind. It's been 37 years and I still love it everytime I set the table. I have posted a blurb from their website...

If nobility ever had to claim a pattern for its own, then Blue Danube china is surely the one. Indeed, royal families of distinction have reverently chosen Blue Danube china's exquisite design for centuries. The design of Blue Danube china was first attributed to the German artist, Kandler, and is based on the most beautiful symbols of ancient Chinese and Far Eastern art. Blue Danube china depicts the flowers of good fortune and happiness, no wonder it's become the world's most famous pattern of all.

so....what story can you share about the choice you made?

The earlier years...

2008-07-04T21:59:00.004-04:00

I have always loved being on the water. My father and I sailed on Lake Cowan. I just loved floating on the water. It was just me and my Dad mostly. That, too, makes it a nice memory. When I first moved to New England, I found myself drawn to the sea. I would walk along the beach, find a rocky spot and sit for hours watching the huge waves crash against the rocks. I love the smell of the sea, the rhythm of the waves. The house we rented on Thatcher Road was on the ocean....right on the ocean. There was a marsh between the house and the beach, and a short wooden walkway...but we were so close you could hear the waves touch the sand when you left the windows open at night. Such a calming effect. that soothing noise helped me fall asleep many a night. I love the tastes of the sea. The first time I boiled a live lobster, I wasn't sure I could do it. Putting that guy head first into a boiling pot of water seemed so..."harsh"...but one bite of that meat in clarified butter and I knew this was something I could do...again and again and again. Fresh Maine Lobster. Nothing like it. Nothing in the world. Gloucester has been in the news lately and it has brought back so many memories. I moved to Rockport, Mass in 1971. I lived in Rockport, Lanes Cove and then moved to Waterville, Maine - where Robin was born until 1977. In 1980, I made the move south to Boca Raton....but my heart stayed in New England for a long time. I learned to knit and crochet in Rockport. I went to my first "Fiesta" in Gloucester. It is an annual Italian Festival. If you care to know more...you can google it...but what I remember is the Greasy Pole. A huge telephone pole parallel to the water and out over the water...and loaded with GREASE...thick thick grease...and the goal was to walk out on the pole and get the flag without falling in. Google it...really....I know there are photos out there. One of my favorite "tastes" of the sea are CLAMS. You cannot live in New England and not love clam rolls. I love them steamed...called "steamahs" ( that's with the accent) and I love them fried. This weekend is the Memorial Service for Larry. I am sorry I can't be there. I think I will find a quiet spot ....grab a Narragansett and toast the good times.

Memories

2008-06-23T10:25:00.002-04:00

This week I learned that someone very dear to me, in years gone by, has died. Only 59 years old. So many thoughts pouring through my mind, it is overflowing with fond memories. Over time the hurts heal and you remember only the good, the positive. God in his infinite grace does that for you. I was floating in the pool the other day, after I heard the news, and I closed my eyes and tried really really hard to see his face. I couldn't. But I could think back to the first time we met...and how much I FELL for this guy. I tried to remember all the FUN times and I even laughed out loud a few times. The neighbors already think we are strange, I'm convinced of that, so I just kept up my float down memory lane. I no longer have regrets. I have made peace about all of my decisions and know that I made mistakes - we all do, but I will always be thankful for the time God gave us and for the extended family I gained through this relationship. I wouldn't trade the experiences or the friends that I made because of this man. I might never have lived in New England. Isn't it curious the path that God prepares for us? Isn't is so curious the way He weaves it all together? God used this man to give me a precious gift...the gift of life....Robin. Through the tears, I was reminded of my dear husband, Jason. God brought him to me when I needed him most and his steadfast, unconditional love has seen me through so much. He introduced me to the most precious gift, the gift of our Lord and Savior, Messiah Jesus. God truly does work all things together for good...I added HEY JUDE to my playlist in memory of Larry. It was always one of his favorites.

Time for a change?

2008-06-15T13:58:00.002-04:00

I was so excited the first time I realized that Hannah might have inherited something from me. I am always looking for clues...her big toes look like mine...she gets up early and is always on time...let's see...how about " SHE LOVES TO REARRANGE FURNITURE". I have always done a lot of rearranging in my mind. As a child, I used to imagine - because I probably wasn't allowed to really do it - our house completely rearranged. I would imagine the living room was the dining room (and vice versa) and picture the couch over here and the dining room table over there....you get the idea. All kinds of changes. I would imagine our unfinished attic as a fully completed suite....I had it all figured out. The closet in the hall would have to go and in it's place would be a beautiful winding staircase...then I would imagine all of my furniture up there and some new pieces to fill up the space. I WAS allowed to rearrange the furniture in my room, as long as I was extra careful and didn't scratch my wood floors. I tried every arrangement imaginable. I was very creative. I am 56 years old and I STILL rearrange furniture. I always have an idea....it drives Jason crazy...but after all of these years, he is no longer surprised to find furniture in a different location. I usually leave HIS CHAIR in the same spot if I am in the tv room and rearrange everything else. Some days I just feel it's Time for a change.
Now, Hannah, has definitely inherited that from me. Can we all just admit that one? Every time I visit, her room is in a different order....she is STRONG. She moves her bed, her chest of drawers, her dresser , her night stand, her doll house and a rocking chair. I just love that about her.
I was just thinking the other day that it's time for a change...I may have to stop this blog and go move something. See ya later...

1946

2008-06-06T19:22:00.002-04:00

The new photo header is one of my mother. Taken, I am guessing in 1946. She would have been a newlywed and about 25 years old. This was my parent's and my 1st home. My mother was such a "Martha". Check out the wallpaper and the couch. My Dad loved photography and probably took this posed photo.
With all the Blog redesigning going on, I decided to change my look, too.
More later....

Sharing Knowledge

2008-06-05T21:39:00.003-04:00

Next week my friend and co-worker, Sharett, will be leaving Delta and beginning a new career with the State of Florida. She is an incredible Administrative Assistant, and I am learning just how much she has done for Delta while in Tallahassee. You see....in 7 days, I will be handling her responsibilities AND MINE until a new AA is hired. For the past few days, Sharett has been "sharing knowledge" with me. I have always wondered why people hoard knowledge. In our line of work, sharing knowledge, makes everyone's job easier....makes everyone's job better. The more I show you, the more you know, the more you know, the more you share....pretty soon....we all know more about what needs to be done and we are "sharing" the workload. I am sorry Sharett is leaving...sorry I didn't take advantage of this tremendous resource that was available to me. We always think there will be another day. I am not sorry for the time we have had...I will be forever thankful for all that I have learned and look forward to continuing our friendship outside of Delta. I truly believe, as I have blogged before...God allows certain people to cross our path in life...no coincidence....always with a purpose...sometimes for just a season...but with a plan for each one. Just in case you are reading this, Sharett, thank you! I really appreciate all that you have shared and wish you the very best!!!

Delta Decision

2008-05-12T19:49:00.011-04:00

Thank you for your continued prayer as I have been praying also for my decision about Delta. As you know, my deadline for deciding is Thursday, May 15. In November of 2001, I was faced with a similar decision. With my CTO closing after 9/11, I had to decide if I were going to stay with Delta and drive 120 miles per day to a Reservations office ( which is now closed, too) or find alternate employment. Friends that I had worked with for 20 years were faced with the same difficult decision. 3 of us stayed, 3 took the "voluntary packages" that were being offered. This time around, the circumstances are different and yet painfully the same.This time around, I have made the same decision to stay. Some say I am loyal and trust in a company that no longer exists, but I am not trusting in Delta...I have placed my trust in Jesus and the verse that has seen me through is Proverbs 3:5 and 6. Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him and He will direct your path. I believe with all my heart, that the Lord has directed me to stay and He will see me through. Thank you again for lifting me up in prayer.

Pool's Open!

2008-05-12T19:23:00.002-04:00

This has been the easiest year to open the pool. Mark and I always trade horror stories...when you cover a pool for the season, you never know what you will find when you pull off the cover. Jason and I are getting better at this. Each year we learn more about the process. Sometimes we think it would be easier to let all the water out, make a bigger deck and get a nice new HOT TUB! Less hassles. But then when I get off work and I am floating in my pool, I think...This is the life! Worth all the work. I can't wait to have Hannah and Jacob over. Spending time with them is always a good time. Guess I will need to get new goggles and floats or noodles. Also want to get a GAS GRILL. Cookouts, poolside...what could be better?

Peter Pan

2008-05-04T19:33:00.005-04:00

This afternoon Robin, Hannah and I flew to Neverland with the Tallahassee Ballet. We enjoyed the performance. Then dinner at Cracker Barrel. Doesn't matter what we do, I always enjoy time spent with Robin and Hannah. I am so thankful that God blessed me so richly. I love you girls.

Symphony....Birthday....and BOSTON BUTTS

2008-04-27T15:23:00.002-04:00

I know, I know..what do those have in common? One thing I know for sure...JASON. Tomorrow is Jason's birthday. We purchase tickets to the Symphony each year now and attend at least 3 performances. When I saw this one...two days before his birthday, it was a "no brainer".
Now the Boston Butt was his idea. A Butt is Better with family, so tonight we invited Robin, Michael and the kids for a BOSTON BUTT BIRTHDAY!

Last night's performance...BRAVO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Gioacchino Rossini - Overture to the Silken Staircase
Franz Liszt Piano Concerto No 1 in E-flat major
and Sergei Rachmanifnoff - Symphony No.2 in E minor, Op27

We finished off the evening with a stop at On the Border for a late night dinner. The service was poor...very very slow and then long after the dinner should have arrived, the waitress informed Jason that they were out of Brisket for his Brisket Taco....he ordered a Beef Burrito and when the waitress brought that she told us that the Manager apologized and Dinner was on the house! So FREE DINNER for Jason's birthday.

Hope you are enjoying the music.

Who Moved My Cheese?

2008-04-09T22:07:00.003-04:00

Have you read that book? If you have, you may be in Corporate America. It was on the Best Sellers list a few years ago and required reading for many corporations. I first read it in 2001....right before Delta "moved my cheese". I shared with my employees this week that Delta has "moved my cheese" so many times...I QUIT EATING CHEESE. The changes I am facing are no exception. Change is never easy....but you must embrace change to survive. I am so thankful that my faith is in God, not my job. I need to be reminded over and over again. God is faithful. God never changes. He is the same yesterday, today and tomorrow. He will take care of me. He has been faithful....through all generations. Over the next few weeks I must make some life changing decisions. They will not be easy. I am thankful for prayer partners who will hold me up, knowing that this is difficult. I have dedicated 30 years to Delta Air Lines. I know that this job was given to me through an answer to prayer. I have no doubt about that. I also need to trust that God is in complete control of this change, and He will see me through.

Welcome myself back comments...

2008-03-25T08:34:00.002-04:00

Last Monday Jason and I drove over to Jacksonville to pick up his mother for a visit. She flew into JAX to get a nonstop. It was a pleasant drive over...always enjoy time in the car with Jase...good conversation and I have his full attention...except that he's driving...HA!
The drive back was enjoyable, too. Catching up with Mary, planning our itinerary for the week.
Today is Mary's birthday. She is 82. She still lives in Wyoming, Ohio...our hometown. They have had a very cold winter and she needed an "escape" to warmer weather. For those who have been here, there is nothing like Springtime in Tallahassee. The azaleas and Dogwoods in bloom. The fragrant flowers, the clear blue skies...the warmer temperatures.
The highlight of her visit has been our Easter Sunday Celebration. Robin and family were invited, of course, and then Robin invited a co-worker, friend...and his family. It turned out to be a lovely Easter Sunday...Wonderful Church service, message and music...great fellowship with family and new friends....delicious dinner. Robin made a 7 layer salad and Mary made Key Lime pies with whipped cream. I made roasted potatoes and green beans...Publix made my ham.
We've been playing Crazy 8's and Scrabble all week....painting....touring Tallahassee. Robin took us yesterday...a spin around FSU and town. It was the best tour I've had. We visited a tree you have to see to believe. The property was donated to the city, I think Robin said, by a former FSU Professor (deceased). It is a MUST SEE in Tallahassee.
Today is the birthday...I have to work...but Jason will take his mom to Outback for lunch.
I was able to attend the "official" birthday lunch, yesterday, at Robin's. She prepared an Oriental Chicken salad that was scrumptious...and the presentation was SO Martha!
Back to work today....Bah Humbug.

Our 28th Wedding Anniversary!

2008-03-10T21:48:00.004-04:00

Jason and I will celebrate our 28th Wedding Anniversary tomorrow. I am still so thankful that God hand picked this man for me. He was praying for a wife. God answered his prayer. I told him this evening, that I know I vowed for "better or worse"... but I'm sure glad it has been "better" more than "worse". He is my best friend. He understands me like no one else. He is still the handsomest guy I have ever seen....and I love him more today than when we first said, "I do". There is a duet...that says it all:

These times are troubled and these times are good
And they're always gonna be, they rise and they fall
We take 'em all the way that we should
Together you and me forsaking them all
Deep in the night and by the light of day
It always looks the same, true love always does
And here by your side, or a million miles away
Nothin's ever gonna change the way that I feel,
The way it is, is the way that it was

When I said I do, I meant that I will 'til the end of all time
Be faithful and true, devoted to you
That's what I had in mind when I said I do

Well this old world keeps changin', and the world stays the same
For all who came before, and it goes hand and hand
Only you and I can undo all that we became
That makes us so much more, than a woman and a man
And after everything that comes and goes around
Has only passed us by, here alone in our dreams
I know there's a lonely heart in every lost and found
But forever you and I will be the ones
Who found out what forever means

When I said I do, I meant that I will 'til the end of all time
Be faithful and true, devoted to you
That's what I had in mind when I said I do

Truer than true, you know that I'll always be there for you
That's what I had in mind, that's what I had in mind,
When I said I do

An unforgettable evening!

2008-03-05T18:38:00.003-05:00

A co-worker gave me two tickets that she was unable to use last night, and Jason and I were able to attend a wonderful concert. I have posted an excerpt from their website below. If you have an opportunity to see them, don't pass it up. Definitely an evening to remember.

A New Journey – by turns dazzlingly elaborate and hauntingly simple – is perfectly reflective of David’s musical vision. As he himself puts it, he is drawn towards ‘music with many layers, many strands, many dynamics, and I tend to think of our music as like a kaleidoscope: elements shifting in and out of focus at any given time.’

Spanning over two hours, the show contains selections from both of the group’s platinum albums, Celtic Woman and A New Journey. The Celtic Women themselves are as beautifully, quintessentially Irish as the music they perform. Says David of the soloists: ‘They are the songs, in many cases, and are the reason for any Celtic Woman music to happen. Their voices and music bring that sound together, bring it to life.’

Make no mistake – this is entertainment on a spectacular scale. It is, however, the poignant, deeply stirring songs and the unforgettable voices of the Celtic Women that will remain with you long after the lights have died down and the dazzling images have faded from view.

Not content to retread ground already covered on previous projects, A New Journey both expands upon and refines the Celtic Woman sound. The repertoire is an unforgettable collection of contemporary hits (Beyond the Sea, The Prayer, Scarborough Fair, Over the Rainbow), classical favorites (Lascia Ch’io Pianga, Vivaldi’s Rain), Irish standards (Dúlaman, Danny Boy, Mo Ghile Mear) and original compositions written especially for the soloists by David Downes (Granuaile's Dance, At the Ceili, The Sky and the Dawn and the Sun, The Blessing & Sing Out!) As David puts it, ‘if you’re going to make a sequel, you might as well throw all ideas into the ring.’ But the risks taken – both in terms of the new musical material and the breathtaking outdoor setting – have paid off in spectacular style. Celtic Woman’s A New Journey, like all the best journeys, is an experience you will never forget.

Baby Binks

2008-03-03T21:10:00.003-05:00

Anyone who knows me well, knows well that I love Baby Binks. Each year just before Easter, I have everyone who loves me searching every Walgreens, CVS, Publix...for Baby Binks...for those who don't know...Baby Binks is a hollow chocolate rabbit...made by Palmer Candies. He is no ordinary bunny....he always has candy eyes and a small satin ribbon. There are many imitations...also made by Palmer candies...FLOPPY, etc...but only ONE BABY BINKS!
Tonight Jason and I went to Home Depot to get our anniversary gift. Our 28th anniversary is March 11. I have been begging for a blower for all the leaves that I am too tired to "sweep" off the deck...and then we stopped by a Publix for cat food and dinner...and on the way in....in their HUGES display of Easter Candy...thinking this would be an unsuccessful attempt at finding my annual BINKS...I almost FELL OVER!!!! They had a large supply of BINKS! I was beside myself...like a kid in the candy store...literally...I GRABBED 3! So proud of my find. Jason was happy, too, because this means he will not have to worry about finding this year's Baby Binks.
So for anyone out there....worried about me....no need.

The perfect wardrobe

2008-02-13T23:13:00.003-05:00

For years I led a Women's Bible Study...lately I have been thinking about some of the things I shared....I needed to hear them again. What kind of clothes are in your closet?

Women are so concerned about what they are going to wear. God's wardrobe is the most beautiful. Look at what the Word says about what we are to "put on".

Colossians 3:12-17 ( KJV)

12Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering;

13Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye.

14And above all these things put on charity, which is the bond of perfectness.

15And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful.

16Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.

17And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him.

Sentimental Journey

2008-02-10T18:56:00.001-05:00

Uncle Earl...early 1950's. My cousin, Lynne (center) then....now she is Dr. Lynne Lohmeier, PHD...Aunt Louise ( my mom's twin sister) and my cousin, Todd.

Just in case...

2008-02-08T23:55:00.000-05:00

My cousin, Lynne, called last night to tell me her father died in his sleep this week. My Uncle Earl...a Veternarian, a gentle man. I had very little contact with him in the past 30 years. He was married to my mom's identical twin for 25 years. They divorced when my cousin was in Jr. High, I think. The last time we spoke was following Hurricane Katrina..I was desperately trying to get information about Lynne. She lives in Gautier, Mississippi - an area devastated by the storm...anyway....as a child I remember this...
... loving the smell of pipe tobacco when I visited my cousins. Their house always smelled of homemade bread and pipe tobacco. I wish I had more memories...my mother had 3 sisters...all of my Uncles are now gone...Uncle Bob...Uncle Ben and now Uncle Earl. Three very different men. All were fathers...I tried to comfort Lynne when we spoke.
Losing a father is hard to describe....it can be like losing a safety net. I know when my father was alive, there was a certain comfort in knowing that he was there....just in case.....just in case I really goofed something up....just in case I needed advice that only a father can give....just in case I needed the wisdom that comes with age...just in case...when you lose your father...it helps to have the love of our Heavenly Father...a love that never ends...a Father who is always there...just in case.

What about you?

2008-01-28T19:04:00.001-05:00

Four jobs I've had:

1. I've been a receptionist
2. I was a very good waitress at Howard Johnson's restaurant.
3. I was a unit clerk on a surgical floor in a hospital
4. For the past 30 years I have been a Delta Air Lines Ticket Agent/Supervisor

Four places I lived:

1. My childhood home in Wyoming, Ohio
2. A house on the ocean in Rockport, Massachusetts
3. A rustic home on a dirt road in Canaan, Maine
4. A home in downtown Boca Raton, Florida

Four movies I've watched over and over:

1. Doc Hollywood
2. The American President
3. OVERBOARD
4. Any Shirley Temple Movie

Four shows I watch:

1. General Hospital
2. Martha Stewart
3. Regis and Kelly
4. Dancing with the Stars

and usually MSNBC

Four places I'd visit again:

1. Prouts Neck, Maine
2. Marin County, California
3. Natchez, Mississippi
4. Fernandina Beach, Florida

Four favorite thing to eat:

1. Lebuchen...once a year at Christmas
2. Pepperoni Pizza
3. Eggs
4. Creme Brulee

Four things I look forward to this new year:

1. a healthier body weight( guess I'd better find 4 new favorite things to eat)
2. Spring
3. Travel
4. Spending time with Grand Kids

For the record....

2008-01-28T09:56:00.000-05:00

Brief Overview of Congressman Paul’s Record:

He has never voted to raise taxes.
He has never voted for an unbalanced budget.
He has never voted for a federal restriction on gun ownership.
He has never voted to raise congressional pay.
He has never taken a government-paid junket.
He has never voted to increase the power of the executive branch.

He voted against the Patriot Act.
He voted against regulating the Internet.
He voted against the Iraq war.

He does not participate in the lucrative congressional pension program.
He returns a portion of his annual congressional office budget to the U.S. treasury every year.

Congressman Paul introduces numerous pieces of substantive legislation each year, probably more than any single member of Congress.

Don't forget to vote on Tuesday!

2008-01-27T21:53:00.000-05:00

Vote for Ron Paul!

Not only does he fit the mold of traditional Republican values -- fiscally conservative, socially conservative and a constitutionalist -- Paul also supports calls to eliminate the Internal Revenue Service and the federal income tax. Where Paul deviates from the party line is his vocal opposition to the war, which has marginalized the medical doctor among many mainstream GOP supporters.

There was a strong anti war pro Ron Paul crowd in the Florida Primary Republican Debate audience on the campus of Florida Atlantic University in Boca Raton, Florida tonight. Results from a MSNBC post debate text messaging poll showed Ron Paul leading before the network decided not to post the official results at the end of the post-debate coverage. The move clearly gets conspiracy theorists abuzz on the Ron Paul posting forums. There was no doubt once again that the clear winner of the debate was Ron Paul.

Ship 102 arriving in Orlando

2008-01-20T17:51:00.000-05:00

Here she is...landing in Orlando for my flight from Orlando to Ft Lauderdale. Thought you'd enjoy seeing the Salute!

The Ride of my Life....

2008-01-20T14:03:00.000-05:00

December 15, 1982: A Special Day for Delta Air Lines
The dedication of Ship 102, The Spirit of DeltaIn the spring of 1982 the airline industry was suffering from a weak economy, high fuel prices, and the effects of an air traffic controllers strike. For the first time in 35 years Delta posted a quarterly loss. As a way of expressing their appreciation for the company during this time, Delta employees spearheaded Project 767—with a lofty goal to purchase the first Boeing 767 aircraft to give to the company as a gift. Lead by 3 flight attendants, the grassroots project focused on a voluntary program to raise $30 million through the combined efforts of employees, retirees, and friends.
The nearly impossible goal became a reality on December 15, 1982 when Delta employees gathered at the Technical Operations Center in Atlanta, Georgia to present the company with its first Boeing 767, Ship 102. Christened The Spirit of Delta, the aircraft was unveiled before thousands of employees and the international media. This historic aircraft, a visual symbol of that which makes Delta unique, has served as an ambassador of the Delta culture for over 23 years by displaying special liveries commemorating the 1996 Atlanta Olympics and Delta's 75th Anniversary in 2004.

The Spirit of Delta's Farewell Tour, February 21-March 6, 2006
After 23 years of service, The Spirit of Delta has retired. To mark this special occasion, Ship 102 embarked on a Farewell Tour to give employees, retirees, friends, and charities one last opportunity to be a part of Spirit's history.

One of the highlights of my career was being selected to participate in the Farewell Tour of Ship 102. I flew into Orlando for my farewell flight from Orlando to Fort Lauderdale on Feb 21, 2006.

I was SO EXCITED. What I didn't know was that I was about to have the ride of my life. Once I boarded, I was selected again....this time to ride in the Cockpit! This was amazing. When a Captain retires, it is a tradition to shoot a water cannon over the aircraft upon arrival. Since this aircraft was retiring, each time it arrived in a city, the Fire department had two fire trucks ready to shower the aircraft . They shoot the water over the aircraft from both sides and the plane rides under the arched shower. I watched as the plane arrived in Orlando...but watching from inside the cockpit upon arrival in Ft Lauderdale took my breath away. I still get teary eyed when I think about this experience.

I thought of this when you all were talking about careers. I never wanted a career, but God had a different path for me. I know that I missed out on some very important events because of Delta, but I also have been able to experience some really wonderful things, meet some of the best people in the world and be where I needed to be at a moment's notice and for FREE.

Childhood Photo

2008-01-14T19:16:00.000-05:00

Just received this photo from my cousin, Barb, in Minnesota. She and her sister are taking old slides and making them Digital. Have no memory of this...guessing it was a Dungan family reunion...probably in Indiana. I just LOVE this photo. I have been thinking about my folks alot lately...missing them....and then this showed up. This would have been early 1950's. Mark was born in 1954...and he doesn't look very old. Since this was a slide...there may be no documentation.

Surprise Surprise Surprise

2008-01-13T12:25:00.000-05:00

Isn't it fun when you can actually pull off a surprise. Today I am sitting at Robin's computer. I did a little coordinating with Hannah...my secret partner in crime...and I have the table all set....stopped at Publix on my way over here...Got all the "fixins" for a little Birthday Lunch.
Helium balloons inside and outside....bright yellow table cloth and fancy birthday plates.!!!
I thought of being really sneaky and parking my car down the road...but let's not get carried away. Made some pigs in a blanket...bought Fried Chicken fingers and salad...a cheese/vegie tray....CARROT CAKE...rolls...I'm salivating right now...it smells so good in here. I just LOVE Publix.
Michael and Robin celebrated their birthday's already...Michael in Leesburg and Robin here in Tallahassee....but what the heck....I'm certain they won't turn down more presents and cake!
While I am typing, Tigger is climbing all over the computer. It's a good thing I took typing...don't need to look at the keys or the screen. He is CRAZY. He is just small enough to fit in the tiny spaces and thinks everything is something to swipe his paws at.
Well....the party should be starting soon. Now be very still and in just a few minutes...when I give the signal.....
YELL SURPRISE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Today in History

2008-01-11T00:01:00.001-05:00

This is theKennebec River in Waterville, Maine...a very special place...and January 11, 1975 became a very special date in this place. It looked a little different on that day...33 years ago...it was COLD....about -40 Degrees ( true temperature- not wind chill) and there was a lot of snow...about 4 feet. I remember waking up and thinking..."Why did I eat so much ice cream last night"...and then it occurred to me...am I in labor? It was a Saturday morning....drove 20 miles over some bumpy dirt roads in our 1970 VW Beetle to downtown Waterville...Thayer Hospital. We walked into the hospital and the nurse asked if I were in labor...I thought she was asking if my husband was my neighbor..and said GOD NO! Anyway...once we got that straight, I was admitted. I arrived at the hospital at about 9am. I watched cartoons until about 1:30 pm when I started feeling too uncomfortable to watch tv. I was taken to a room and the labor intensified. I do remember the shift change ( about 3pm) and thinking I would have all new nurses...but the one assigned to me stayed. At 3:45pm I was taken to the Delivery room. My doctor finally arrived about 4pm and Robin was born at 4:13 pm....a natural childbirth...at 6lbs 6 ozs - 18 inches long...she was truly the most beautiful baby I had ever seen and she was so tiny. It was the happiest day of my life....and for the past 33 years....Robin has given me so much joy. Happy Birthday, my dear. I love you more today than words can say. You are still the most beautiful baby and a true gift from God.

Moving in with my Kids!

2008-01-06T20:00:00.000-05:00

I started thinking about retirement...and decided that I want to live with Robin. She is a good cook...so I know I would be well fed. She is artistic...so I know she could keep me occupied with crafts...she has a kitten, so I know I could bring my kitten ( if she is still alive). Robin is a talented decorator...so my accommodations would be lovely. Robin reads and would probably read to me if my eyesight goes. Robin has a great sense of humor...so I would probably be laughing all the time. It just seems like a good fit. I am already getting excited at the prospect. I know it may be a few years down the road...but hopefully, when the time comes...I will be welcome. I will keep my area neat and tidy...I will be at least as good as Robin was when she was living with me....PS If possible, I would like to bring Jason with me.

Mobile Bay

2007-12-27T20:46:00.000-05:00

USS ALABAMA

BELLINGRATH GARDENS

Jason and I took a couple of days and drove over to Mobile before Christmas. We stopped at the Visitor Center upon arrival and picked up the brochures for the "Must Sees" and started our 3 day visit. We toured downtown, and visited Three Chocolates for Mobile's best! We had lunch at Felix's Fishcamp. DELICIOUS and great view of the bay. We drove to Fairhope on our second morning for breakfast at Panini Pete's....Beignets and Coffee in the French Quarter. This town is fantastic! Beautiful flowers and many quaint shops. Also a great pier and a walkable town. We kept heading south through Gulf Shores...and then took a Ferry over the Mobile Bay to Dauphin Island. That was fun...car and all on the ferry. It took about 45 minutes to cross the Bay. We drove up to Bellingrath Gardens. The original owner made his fortune in Coca Cola. We toured the Gardens and home. Beautiful and I imagine in the Spring it is breathtaking. We ate at Two Dollar Bills and had the most delicious Catfish. We stayed at a Marriott Courtyard...nothing fancy...but they did have an indoor pool, which we enjoyed. It was nice to get away to a city we'd never visited...and it is ALWAYS nice to spend time in the car with Jason. He is STILL the most interesting person I have ever met. I just love listening to all he has to say. We visited a Botanical Garden and did a lof of sightseeing in town. Some beautiful antebellum homes. A very nice city....easy to get around and GREAT FOOD!

We had hoped to connect with my first cousin, Lynne, who lives in Gautier, Ms. Seems to be about 46 miles from where we were staying....but we were unsuccessful.

On our last morning we ate at Denny's....whoopee...and then toured the USS Alabama. That was so much fun. I decided that after touring the ship...I would definitely want to be an Officer if I lived on the ship and I would NEVER want to be sick...the Sick Bay looked HORRIBLE. We climbed down ladders and through many hatches...I cannot imagine life on a battleship. It really was the most interesting day.

The Merriest Christmas!

2007-12-24T17:05:00.000-05:00

Dear Friends,

As promised I am posting a photo of Jason and me. We had the best Christmas! I offered to work on Christmas Day so that one of the other Supervisors at work could be off, and so we celebrated with Robin and family on Sunday, December 23. We started with Sunday Dinner at our home ( 1pm). I got out my mom's fine china, and served Roast Beef, Baked Potatoes, Green Bean almondine and crescent rolls....and the O'Donnell favorite...Ambrosia. We opened gifts we had for them, watched football and had a nice afternoon together. Robin and Michael left...we kept the kids until 7pm when we headed to their home for snacks and more presents. Robin is AMAZING...she fixed the most delicious wings...Beer Bread, Pizza DIP...veggies with dip and her traditional HOMEMADE FUDGE. We took photos and just enjoyed the evening together. I am so blessed to have the most wonderful family. As I watched the kids open their presents...remember Robin and Michael give 1/ Something you WANT, 2/Something you NEED, 3/Something to WEAR and 4/Something to READ...I was overwhelmed with the goodness of our Lord and Savior, who gives eternal life and so much joy in this life. Hope you enjoy the photos...Robin just sent a few. They are off to Titusville this evening. Jason and I will watch over Tigger while they are away. More about Tigger on another POST.

You can't go back...

2007-12-16T12:28:00.000-05:00

but it's nice when you feel like you've never left. Last weekend, after a long time away, I flew into Ft. Lauderdale for a two day reunion with the Ya Ya's. ( ever seen the movie? Well these gals are my BFF's, to use the vernacular.) After 9/11, life changed in so many ways. For me, life as I knew it at Delta would be changed forever. Everyone has a story...here's mine.

For anyone in the Corporate World you know there's always a new book your CEO is pushing everyone to read. All you need to do is walk through a bookstore and find the "Latest Best Sellers"...In 2001...it was WHO MOVED MY CHEESE. It really is a good little book...good message...and when our Supervisor made it mandatory reading...I should have known...there's a big change coming. A decision was made to close Delta's City Ticket Offices. My office in Palm Beach and the offices in West Palm and Palm Beach Gardens were CLOSED in November, 2001.

For 20 years this close knit group of women would be forced to go their separate ways. As it turned out...3 of us stayed with Delta...one in Ft Laud...one in Palm Beach and one in Tallahassee. The other 2 retired. When you spend 40 hours + a week with the same women, you share everything. We had our kids together...we traveled together...we experienced all that life has "together"...we helped each other with life's challenges...we laughed together...we cried together...we learned from each other. So parting was more than sweet sorrow. It was the toughest thing for all of us....so we made a pact! Meet regularly forever. At first it was every month...now it's probably once a year (occasionally more often)....but when we meet...it's as though we were together just the day before.

I know I'm the oldest blogger on our little circuit...so let me say this to you sweet young women...WORK HARD at your friendships. Don't ever take them for granted. I am so thankful for the women in my life. One day you will be so glad you stayed in touch. I know I am.

We're SMOKIN...

2007-12-03T21:37:00.001-05:00

The Ackley's new ORION COOKER

We've added a new cooker to our collection. When we moved to Tallahassee we added the big FRYER...we have enjoyed Fried Turkeys at Thanksgiving and WINGS that are outta this world....but today we opened an early Christmas Present and I've included a photo from their catalog. It's an ORION COOKER. We cooked 2 slabs of ribs tonight. ....we were breaking it in for our Christmas Eve Dinner. Jason is becoming quite the OUTDOOR CHEF.

It uses charcoal on the bottom and top....it has a rack inside and a drip pan...you can cook roasts, turkeys, hams...ribs...obviously....yummy ribs. The temperature is supposed to drop down to 33 degrees tonight...it's about 58 right now...we sat out on the deck and the heat and flames from the coals put out enough heat to make it comfortable to sit outside. I kept wanting to roast marshmallows while we were chatting.

I look forward to having the O'Donnells....Botleys and maybe the Turner's again for another cookout and evening of fellowship. Hope we don't have to wait too long.

Mark and Julie....I know you had to eat a lot of half cooked chicken when Dad decided to get a smoker...I was laughing to myself when Jason said he wanted a "smoker"...but this is so much more. Maybe one day....you all will get down here to enjoy a rack of ribs with us...until then...I'm still lickin my fingers.

I'm Thankful, too.

2007-11-25T15:30:00.000-05:00

This was the nicest Thanksgiving I've enjoyed in years. I am so full of thanks. Everything was delicious, done on time, cleaned up with little effort and the conversation sweet. Jason did an outstanding job on the Fried Turkeys...and the Baked Brie was out of this world. I had more fun preparing than in years past. I am so thankful for Michael's family and the full house. It was a perfect day.

The Holidays

2007-11-23T21:20:00.000-05:00

I've always liked a formal dinner on Christmas Eve...all the fine china...crystal...silver...I can remember enjoying that growing up and have tried to continue it when possible over the years. I have always loved candles in the windows. One traditional gift....Robin knows...Thank you Notes. The art of letter writing has diminished over the years....fewer and fewer handwritten notes are ever sent. The computer generated letters with more news than anyone really wants to hear and emails have replaced them. To me, that is so sad. I have tried to encourage those I love by sending notes and still enjoy receiving one almost more than anything else. My mother and I exchanged letters for years and I have saved each one. I have letters dating back from the early 70's...Through the years I have received so much comfort, laughter and joy from re-reading them. Seeing the words she penned...hearing her tone in each sentence...remembering her wit...they are so personal. After my mother died, the letters became even dearer. I try to include a handwritten note in each Christmas Card I send. I like Egg Nog and Lebkuken and Fruit Cake...I used to enjoy Christmas Caroling...but haven't done that in years. I miss being in the Church Choir and performing during the holidays.
Thanksgiving and New Years are favorites of mine...Fried Turkey has become a recent tradition...and On New Years...anyone who knows me...knows....Sausage Balls and the Rose Parade.

Papa's Peppers

2007-11-04T14:35:00.000-05:00

Anyone who knows Jason, knows his love of HOT SAUCE and Hot Peppers. It used to be a challenge to find a sauce he hadn't tried. The first time we visited Jungle Jims in Cincinnati...I went wild in the Hot Sauce SECTION...yep....they have multiple aisles of Hot Sauces. Anyway...over the years I have learned that Habaneros are HOT....and the seeds, if you touch them are "wicked" hot. Don't touch your eyes after touching the seeds. Wash your hands immediately. I have also learned to read ingredients...some of the funny labels on Hot Sauces are just gimmicks...and some of the stuff you just buy at Publix is the best!

Jason is growing peppers now. He has two plants...one habanero and one jalepeno. Looking good.

Hope none of our little forest friends decide to have a snack....YEEEOOOOOOWWWW!

Wedding in Wildwood

2007-10-22T19:07:00.000-04:00

Sunday Jason and I made the trip to Wildwood, Florida for James and Martha's wedding. ( see Robin's blog for photo of the bride and groom) All of the O'Donnell's were there for a family reunion AND the wedding. It was nice to be included in this fun family weekend. It was a short 3 hour drive...Jason and I enjoy driving together...talking...seeing new areas. I made the mistake of relying on Mapquest for directions....OOPS!! we ended up in the wrong town on a street with the right name...had to call Michael and get turned around. Still made it with time to spare. After a lively church service, we witnessed the wedding service and then headed for a local BBQ for lunch.

On our way home we passed The Villages....golf resort community....very very nice!!! Must remember to tell David and Linda to check that out....her ONLY requirement is " there must be a Publix"....and there was....also lots of golf courses for David....very nice community.

Today Jason and I closed up our pool for the winter....that means....TURKEY DAY must be just around the corner. More later......

Flower Girl...Bride

2007-10-13T21:17:00.000-04:00

How beautiful is this? My niece, Alexandra, was asked to be a Flower Girl in Courtney's wedding. Courtney has been one of Alexandra's care givers and really more of a "family" member...caring for Alex for years. She was married recently and Alexandra was her flower girl.

CONGRATULATIONS, COURTNEY!!! You look beautiful and Alexandra looks fabulous in a dress....I love it!!!!!!!!!!

The Baby

2007-10-12T21:08:00.000-04:00

32 years ago I received the most treasured gift God can give...The Baby! She was a good baby, she was a great kid, and she has grown into the lovliest, smartest, most talented, creative and funny woman I know. I am always so proud to say, "she's my daughter."

She was always an excellent student, receiving awards in school. She graduated from FSU while she was married and raising two children. She can truly do anything she puts her mind to. She can sew, cook, create artwork on a page, she has an eye for decorating, she is stylish...she's a self taught seamstress and has created curtains and pillows and slipcovers. She is a mother, a friend, a prayer partner, a wife. She will always be "The Baby" to me. She will never know how many times her sweet smile or her hugs got me through difficult times. I have laughed more with Robin than anyone. I have appreciated her good counsel...a woman wise for her years....and....her new hair cut is FABULOUS! Thank you, Robin...for all you do for Jase and me...we love you very much!!!

Cherokee Legend

2007-10-08T10:11:00.000-04:00

Do you know the legend of the Cherokee Indian youth's rite of passage?
His father takes him into the forest, blindfolds him and leaves him alone,
He is required to sit on a stump the whole night and not remove the blindfold until the rays of the morning sun shine through it. He cannot cry out for help to anyone. Once he survives the night, he is a MAN. He cannot tell the other boys of this experience, because each lad must come into manhood on his own.The boy is naturally terrified. He can hear all kinds of noises. Wild beasts must surely be all around him. Maybe even some human might do him harm. The wind blew the grass and earth, and shook his stump, but he sat stoically, never removing the blindfold. It would be the only way he could become a man! Finally, after a horrific night the sun appeared and he removed his blindfold. It was then that he discovered his father sitting on the stump next to him. He had been at watch the entire night, protecting his son from harm. We, too, are never alone. Even when we don't know it, our Heavenly Father is watching over us, sitting on the stump beside us. When trouble comes, all we have to do is reach out to Him.

I read this recently and appreciated the reminder. God will never leave us nor forsake us. He cares for us. We are chosen, beloved and kept....maybe you, too, needed a reminder.

Noteworthy

2007-10-07T21:30:00.000-04:00

Friday night Jason and I went to hear the Tallahassee Symphony Orchestra. Last year I was trying to plan something special for Jason and decided that tickets to the Symphony would be ideal. Jason has always loved classical music. It was the best gift....I'm hooked. When tickets went on sale this year I purchased three dates. Friday was the European Tour. The program began with Mendelssohn, Symphony No. 4 in A Major, Op. 90, "Italian". There was a guest cellist, Gregory Sauer, who played Kabalevsky, Cello Concerto No.1 in G Minor, Op 49. I was completely taken in...transported to a place I have never been...the music was so beautiful...I was overwhelmed.

Following Intermission, we heard Hindemith, Symphonic Metamorphosis of themes by Carl Maria von Weber. We have seats in the Orchestra section, 2nd row...seats 5 and 6. Right up front. I love the violins...I love watching the conductor...I am beginning to recognize the different instruments by sound...something I am sad to say I couldn't distinguish my Sophomore year in college...sadly I failed a Music Appreciation class. My mind was elsewhere in those years.

Today, I am so thankful for a husband who appreciates the fine arts.

I am already looking forward to January

Jacob's Birthday Lunch

2007-10-01T19:26:00.000-04:00

You only had to look at Jacob's face to know he enjoyed his Birthday Lunch. Apparently, he has wanted to visit this restaurant ever since he first saw it. Another new restaurant in Tallahassee. Something about the outside was "welcoming"...and when he had a choice of restaurants ( a birthday tradition) he chose Famous Daves's. For all the times Robin has toted her camera...this would have been a real photo op. Wings at Famous Dave's....$8.95....Jacob's Face...PRICELESS!!!!!! Jacob's face had more BBQ sauce than the wings he ordered.

Jacob...you are the sweetest, most huggable 11 year old I know. I am so thankful that you are MY Grandson!!!!! Your quick wit is refreshing!!!! Hope you had a very Happy Birthday! An All- Star....a Pitcher....a Cub Scout....an "A" Student...you got it all Kid! Love, Papa and DeeDee

"Car 54 where are you?"

2007-09-30T14:08:00.000-04:00

Some of you will remember that expression...anyway...I am still here. I was accused of spending so much time "blogging" that I had no time for my card ministry. What is a card ministry?
Years ago our Adult Sunday School class had what we called "Secret Pals". Our teacher and his wife had made a decision, after much prayer, to move to North Carolina. Marty wanted to be closer to her father, that was one reason that I remember. We had a huge class....everyone understood that this was an answer to prayer...but most were sad. One gal seemed "devastated". Stan and Marty ( the couple that was leaving) had also prayed for a replacement couple to take over The Circle of Friendship...that couple was Jason and me. That year I got the "devastated gal" for my Secret Pal. I worked very had all year long to send personal notes, gifts, be clever....prayerfully select just the right words, gifts to show my love for this gal....and I was very secretive....anyway....to make a long story short...this gal...is Linda Turner. She and her husband, again after much prayer, also decided to move away to North Carolina...approximately 13 years ago. After she left...I was devastated. I began sending cards....I spent all my time, energy and money selecting the best Hallmarks and then send personal handwritten notes to Linda after she moved. Over the 13 years....it has become challenging to find cards I haven't already sent. Hopefully we are both at an age that if I send a repeat she doesn't remember....since obviously I don't when I buy it a second or third time.
I love emails...I love blogs....but my heart will always lean toward a personal handwritten note or card. I appreciate them more when I receive one...and I like sending them. I don't care about the cost of stamps....well I do, but what's 41 cents if it really makes someone's day?????
I started spending more time in card shops lately and that is the reason for my bloglessness...is that a word?
The Bible says that the older women should teach the younger women...and so I would say this....Ladies, teach your children the art of writing thank yous. I don't know anyone who doesn't appreciate receiving a handwritten note. I don't know anyone....so if you miss my blogging...hang in there....I might just be sending you a handwritten note....Just call out...." Car 54 where are you?" I'll be right there.

Circle of Friends

2007-09-17T19:49:00.000-04:00

What a wonderful time with forever friends. This was taken on our last evening together in North Carolina....from L to R...Paul, Marty, Stan, Sara, Jason, Debra, Linda and David. Thank you for a wonderful BIRTHDAY WEEK. I love you all.