A funny thing happened to me on my way to the mailbox Saturday, Christmas Eve. (No, I did not get run over by a reindeer.) I was having a mental debate with myself as to whether or not I should stop sending Christmas cards. (By the way--if you usually get a card from me and you didn't this year? I failed to notice that the boxes I bought only contained 12 cards! So I ran out.) Anyway, I decided maybe Christmas cards were for younger folks and out-of-town friends of us older folks, so maybe I should act my age and cease and desist.
Then...I opened the mailbox. It contained 4 catalogs. Not one Christmas card. On Christmas Eve! I was so deflated. I LIKE getting Christmas cards. They are so fun. I even like Christmas letters of any length.
I changed my mind and will be sending cards next year. I've even already decided on the picture I want on the cards! I may buck the trend and send more than ever! That is, if I remember to count the number in the boxes. It may be down to 10 next year.
Tuesday, December 27, 2011
Magical Memories of Holiday Magic
For several years Susan was on the steering committee for the Arlington Junior League's annual Holiday Magic. One of the perks of these jobs was that her daughter(s) got to model in the wonderful style show. Here is Madeline doing her first gig. (The photographer pointed out to us that at her young age she knew to make eye contact with the camera!)
And here she is in a later year with her little sister, Susannah baby!
I have two especially wonderful memories which make Holiday Magic magical to me. Part of the fun of the event to the girls was getting to hang around the market area after the style show. The first occurrence involved only Madeline. In shopping around she found something for us that she felt we absolutely must have! When we arrived, she immediately took us to show us. Here is her great find, now hanging on my tree.
Yes, it's bride and groom ornaments for her grandparents who were a bride and groom almost 50 years before! I don't know whether or not you can see it, but these ornaments were personalized. I wonder if I was able to keep a straight face when I said, "That would be Mimi and Gaga." Of course, now if I had a fire in my house, these ornaments just might be the first thing I would save!
The second story came from that collection of memories that I jotted down but never got written in my special album. It happened in a year that Susan was in charge of all the entertainment for Holiday Magic. This meant she had to stay for the entire day after the luncheon and style show. The girls wanted, begged, insisted upon staying also. Here was the group: Chandler, 6th grade, Madeline, 3rd grade, Cassie, 3rd grade, Susannah, 1st grade, and a younger girl named Olivia. They ran around that market all day in a pack shopping, visiting, sampling the food (until Susan told them to quit), and just generally having a ball. By evening, they were all totally exhausted. Little Olivia, the baby of the group, broke down completely and was crying her eyes out. Madeline wrapped her arms around her and said, "Don't worry, Olivia. I feel like doing exactly the same thing."
And here she is in a later year with her little sister, Susannah baby!
I have two especially wonderful memories which make Holiday Magic magical to me. Part of the fun of the event to the girls was getting to hang around the market area after the style show. The first occurrence involved only Madeline. In shopping around she found something for us that she felt we absolutely must have! When we arrived, she immediately took us to show us. Here is her great find, now hanging on my tree.
Yes, it's bride and groom ornaments for her grandparents who were a bride and groom almost 50 years before! I don't know whether or not you can see it, but these ornaments were personalized. I wonder if I was able to keep a straight face when I said, "That would be Mimi and Gaga." Of course, now if I had a fire in my house, these ornaments just might be the first thing I would save!
The second story came from that collection of memories that I jotted down but never got written in my special album. It happened in a year that Susan was in charge of all the entertainment for Holiday Magic. This meant she had to stay for the entire day after the luncheon and style show. The girls wanted, begged, insisted upon staying also. Here was the group: Chandler, 6th grade, Madeline, 3rd grade, Cassie, 3rd grade, Susannah, 1st grade, and a younger girl named Olivia. They ran around that market all day in a pack shopping, visiting, sampling the food (until Susan told them to quit), and just generally having a ball. By evening, they were all totally exhausted. Little Olivia, the baby of the group, broke down completely and was crying her eyes out. Madeline wrapped her arms around her and said, "Don't worry, Olivia. I feel like doing exactly the same thing."
Wednesday, December 21, 2011
Whew!
It may seem strange that I would re-title my blog My Exclamation Point Life, then apparently drop out of action. But...that was not the case. It may seem that I was out of action, but I actually became Linda Stovall, Party Machine! Yes, between December 4th and December 26th, I will have had 7 parties, hostessing a total of 71 guests!
I did not have any Christmas decorations in 2008, 2009, or 2010. I was so ready this year to be festive again. And if I had decorations, I wanted to share them. On December 7th, I had 12 BSF friends here for our Christmas fellowship. It was a wonderful day. Such a blessing.
On December 13th, my 3 "friends of longest standing" came for lunch. We began over a year ago to meet once a month. I think it is very unusual to still have a friend you had in the first grade, but I do!
Then December 15th was ladies' bridge day, and I had requested December, knowing I would want to show off my long lost decorations! I fixed a pretty mahvelous lunch, if I do say so myself and I do. We had a great day of bridge and fun. The next night is couples' bridge, so I had 4 tables, or 16 participants. A good time seemed to have been had by all.
Saturday night, the 17th, I hosted my Sunday School department's party. I didn't know how many to expect, but I guessed about 10 or so. I guessed wrong. We had 24 ladies! They all brought wonderful food and were so pleasant. We were bulging at the seams, but they were totally adaptable. I've already volunteered to have that party again next year.
Last Sunday the Party Machine had a temporary malfunction--a rotten cold! It was attacked with Cold-Eze and driven back after two days of causing minor stalling. The machine is back in gear, with 3 friends coming for lunch tomorrow.
Jay and Terri will be in Houston on Christmas Day, so the PM will be serving lunch to the 7 of us on Monday, December 26th. Jay can hardly believe (for good reason) that I am actually cooking.
I told several people that I would post some pictures of my decorations, but I've been too busy preparing for the next group! So here goes...
There they are in no particular order, since I'm not the best at making them appear where I want them to! I have the dated plates for every year since 2000, except the years I didn't decorate. The picture does not do my exquisite nativity set justice. And Christmas lights are difficult to photograph, I've discovered.
I have not forgotten for a moment the true reason for this season. The Jesus who came to earth as a baby, who lived a sinless life, and who died for my sins that I might live forever has also granted me inner peace this year--more than ever before in my life. His plan for my life is still unfolding before me, and the voices of a million angels could not express my gratitude for his countless blessings.
I did not have any Christmas decorations in 2008, 2009, or 2010. I was so ready this year to be festive again. And if I had decorations, I wanted to share them. On December 7th, I had 12 BSF friends here for our Christmas fellowship. It was a wonderful day. Such a blessing.
On December 13th, my 3 "friends of longest standing" came for lunch. We began over a year ago to meet once a month. I think it is very unusual to still have a friend you had in the first grade, but I do!
Then December 15th was ladies' bridge day, and I had requested December, knowing I would want to show off my long lost decorations! I fixed a pretty mahvelous lunch, if I do say so myself and I do. We had a great day of bridge and fun. The next night is couples' bridge, so I had 4 tables, or 16 participants. A good time seemed to have been had by all.
Saturday night, the 17th, I hosted my Sunday School department's party. I didn't know how many to expect, but I guessed about 10 or so. I guessed wrong. We had 24 ladies! They all brought wonderful food and were so pleasant. We were bulging at the seams, but they were totally adaptable. I've already volunteered to have that party again next year.
Last Sunday the Party Machine had a temporary malfunction--a rotten cold! It was attacked with Cold-Eze and driven back after two days of causing minor stalling. The machine is back in gear, with 3 friends coming for lunch tomorrow.
Jay and Terri will be in Houston on Christmas Day, so the PM will be serving lunch to the 7 of us on Monday, December 26th. Jay can hardly believe (for good reason) that I am actually cooking.
I told several people that I would post some pictures of my decorations, but I've been too busy preparing for the next group! So here goes...
There they are in no particular order, since I'm not the best at making them appear where I want them to! I have the dated plates for every year since 2000, except the years I didn't decorate. The picture does not do my exquisite nativity set justice. And Christmas lights are difficult to photograph, I've discovered.
I have not forgotten for a moment the true reason for this season. The Jesus who came to earth as a baby, who lived a sinless life, and who died for my sins that I might live forever has also granted me inner peace this year--more than ever before in my life. His plan for my life is still unfolding before me, and the voices of a million angels could not express my gratitude for his countless blessings.
Mimi's Cherished Dollhouse
When I re-titled my blog I think I told you how giddy I was about getting the electricity on my dollhouse repaired. My exuberance over this has not died down one bit! Let me tell you about it.
This dollhouse was probably the nicest thing I received as a child. I can't believe we hung onto it, but somehow it ended up in our attic here in Arlington. Susan just happened to be here one day when Jack was cleaning out the attic and saw the dollhouse (in pieces). One corner of the roof was broken off, but somehow still there. She scooped it up before I even saw it and found a place in Fort Worth to have it restored. That Christmas I cried my eyes out when they brought it out with a big red bow tied around it--almost like new!
Isn't it just wonderful? It was furnished in a much different manner from its original little plastic pieces when the family presented it to me. Jay and Terri had bought the bedroom furniture which looked much like the antique suite we have in our bedroom (and probably cost accordingly!!) We already had Madeline, thus the nursery. Her nursery was in a carousel theme, and I later found the little carousel horse for the dollhouse nursery. (See it in the nursery window?)
The house did not have electric lights when I received it that Christmas. We used to take the girls over to the place that restored the house to look for new "stuff." They spotted the chandelier which is now in the dining room, and they wanted it! We asked if the house could be electrified. Yes...if we wanted to take out a bank loan...which, of course, Gaga did not hesitate to do! So...we picked out wonderful fixtures for every room. Here's where it all began:
Oops. It looks extremely more glamorous in person. And here's the living room, complete with fireplace, tools, etc. "Gaga" is holding a miniature Fort Worth Star Telegram.
Now the disappointing thing about all this was that the lights were never very dependable. They would sometimes work, often flicker on and off, and just generally frustrate us girls. The man who had wired it had retired. I made multiple phone calls. I hauled the thing to Denton to try to get proper repair. When I got it home, the lights would not work at all.
I then called my electrician brother-in-law, Jerry. I was embarrassed to ask him, because this thing is electrified with little tape--not typical wires. He sent one of his best guys, Joe. Unbeknownst to me, Joe has a hobby of--guess what? Building dollhouses! He fixed it!!! Better than ever!!! Hallelujah!!!
This has definitely been a high point of my Christmas. Every guest has been directed and coerced into looking carefully at my dollhouse!
This dollhouse was probably the nicest thing I received as a child. I can't believe we hung onto it, but somehow it ended up in our attic here in Arlington. Susan just happened to be here one day when Jack was cleaning out the attic and saw the dollhouse (in pieces). One corner of the roof was broken off, but somehow still there. She scooped it up before I even saw it and found a place in Fort Worth to have it restored. That Christmas I cried my eyes out when they brought it out with a big red bow tied around it--almost like new!
Isn't it just wonderful? It was furnished in a much different manner from its original little plastic pieces when the family presented it to me. Jay and Terri had bought the bedroom furniture which looked much like the antique suite we have in our bedroom (and probably cost accordingly!!) We already had Madeline, thus the nursery. Her nursery was in a carousel theme, and I later found the little carousel horse for the dollhouse nursery. (See it in the nursery window?)
The house did not have electric lights when I received it that Christmas. We used to take the girls over to the place that restored the house to look for new "stuff." They spotted the chandelier which is now in the dining room, and they wanted it! We asked if the house could be electrified. Yes...if we wanted to take out a bank loan...which, of course, Gaga did not hesitate to do! So...we picked out wonderful fixtures for every room. Here's where it all began:
Oops. It looks extremely more glamorous in person. And here's the living room, complete with fireplace, tools, etc. "Gaga" is holding a miniature Fort Worth Star Telegram.
Now the disappointing thing about all this was that the lights were never very dependable. They would sometimes work, often flicker on and off, and just generally frustrate us girls. The man who had wired it had retired. I made multiple phone calls. I hauled the thing to Denton to try to get proper repair. When I got it home, the lights would not work at all.
I then called my electrician brother-in-law, Jerry. I was embarrassed to ask him, because this thing is electrified with little tape--not typical wires. He sent one of his best guys, Joe. Unbeknownst to me, Joe has a hobby of--guess what? Building dollhouses! He fixed it!!! Better than ever!!! Hallelujah!!!
This has definitely been a high point of my Christmas. Every guest has been directed and coerced into looking carefully at my dollhouse!
Saturday, December 3, 2011
A More Approproate Title For My Blog!
When I decided to start blogging, I hastily chose a name for my blog. But "Life With Linda" was just too boring and mundane for me...so, I'm changing it.
I have a brass exclamation mark which I display (when I have time to polish it.) Those of you who know me know that I am very excitable. (Just wait til you hear about my getting the lighting fixed on my dollhouse! I was as giddy as a little girl!) Nobody has a better time on a trip than I do. Nobody loves life more than I do. I have always said of myself that I lead an exclamation point life! Therefore, I hereby officially change the title of my blog to: My Exclamation Point Life!!!
"Rejoice in the Lord always; again I say REJOICE!" Philippians 4:4
I have a brass exclamation mark which I display (when I have time to polish it.) Those of you who know me know that I am very excitable. (Just wait til you hear about my getting the lighting fixed on my dollhouse! I was as giddy as a little girl!) Nobody has a better time on a trip than I do. Nobody loves life more than I do. I have always said of myself that I lead an exclamation point life! Therefore, I hereby officially change the title of my blog to: My Exclamation Point Life!!!
"Rejoice in the Lord always; again I say REJOICE!" Philippians 4:4
Sunday, November 27, 2011
May I Introduce Myself....
I have the distinction of having "Superwoman" for a daughter. Now it is hard for me to call her that, because I am just a girl myself, so how could she be a woman? Last week was a prime example of her amazing abilities.
We don't have birth-days in our family. We have birth-weeks. Susannah Logan Metzger will be 16 years old as of tomorrow. Her celebration began last Tuesday with a party for an indeterminate number of her closest friends. It was a western-themed party featuring line dancing and hot tubbing, as well as Wii dancing games, ping-pong, Ms. Pac-Man, indoor basketball toss, etc., etc., etc.
Superwoman decorated the house beautifully (with the help of Superman Rob.) She made the cutest, neatest poster that said "Oh, Susannah, is Sweet Sixteen," which was on the front door. (Don't tell Susannah, but I have a vintage copy of the Oh, Susanna sheet music for her birthday!) The tables, yes, plural, were great looking. They served the best grilled hot dogs (I know because I got some left-overs.) There were three cakes and ice cream, of course.
The evening was a resounding success. The house and yard were filled with kids having fun. Susannah had a great time. Look for pictures on FB.
Was it time for Superwoman to rest? Well, it would have been nice, but she had a quick turnaround to set up for Thanksgiving for 15! Table arrangements changed. Decorations changed. Food changed drastically. If that sounds manageable, factor in that the Metzgers have a Thanksgiving tradition of participating in the Arlington Turkey Trot. They were up and out at 7:00 A.M. Thursday morning. That's not all...delivering dinners for Mission Arlington is also a tradition for their family. Check, check, they got it all accomplished and were back home to host a wonderful Thanksgiving day for our whole family.
Wait--we're not through. We had a lovely day after Thanksgiving, too, arranged by none other than SW! Eleven of us trooped down to Waxahachie, had lunch at the Dove's Nest, then took a home tour. We had another great day.
Now by this day--Friday--I had "one wheel off and the axle draggin'." Actually, I think I was already in that condition by Thanksgiving night. Superwoman was still perky. She had popped something out of place in her knee, but it didn't slow her down one bit.
I do not know anyone else in this whole world of millions and billions of people whose claim to fame is that they are the mother of Dolly Levi, Patsy Cline, Superwoman, and best of all, Susan Lynn Stovall Metzger. I am one blessed and very proud Mom.
We don't have birth-days in our family. We have birth-weeks. Susannah Logan Metzger will be 16 years old as of tomorrow. Her celebration began last Tuesday with a party for an indeterminate number of her closest friends. It was a western-themed party featuring line dancing and hot tubbing, as well as Wii dancing games, ping-pong, Ms. Pac-Man, indoor basketball toss, etc., etc., etc.
Superwoman decorated the house beautifully (with the help of Superman Rob.) She made the cutest, neatest poster that said "Oh, Susannah, is Sweet Sixteen," which was on the front door. (Don't tell Susannah, but I have a vintage copy of the Oh, Susanna sheet music for her birthday!) The tables, yes, plural, were great looking. They served the best grilled hot dogs (I know because I got some left-overs.) There were three cakes and ice cream, of course.
The evening was a resounding success. The house and yard were filled with kids having fun. Susannah had a great time. Look for pictures on FB.
Was it time for Superwoman to rest? Well, it would have been nice, but she had a quick turnaround to set up for Thanksgiving for 15! Table arrangements changed. Decorations changed. Food changed drastically. If that sounds manageable, factor in that the Metzgers have a Thanksgiving tradition of participating in the Arlington Turkey Trot. They were up and out at 7:00 A.M. Thursday morning. That's not all...delivering dinners for Mission Arlington is also a tradition for their family. Check, check, they got it all accomplished and were back home to host a wonderful Thanksgiving day for our whole family.
Wait--we're not through. We had a lovely day after Thanksgiving, too, arranged by none other than SW! Eleven of us trooped down to Waxahachie, had lunch at the Dove's Nest, then took a home tour. We had another great day.
Now by this day--Friday--I had "one wheel off and the axle draggin'." Actually, I think I was already in that condition by Thanksgiving night. Superwoman was still perky. She had popped something out of place in her knee, but it didn't slow her down one bit.
I do not know anyone else in this whole world of millions and billions of people whose claim to fame is that they are the mother of Dolly Levi, Patsy Cline, Superwoman, and best of all, Susan Lynn Stovall Metzger. I am one blessed and very proud Mom.
Thursday, November 24, 2011
Mimi's Part of the Tradition
I am sitting down resting and drinking some real Coke after finishing up my cooking. Here is what I am taking to the Metzger's house:
That is enough cornbread dressing, corn, and cherry-Coke salad to feed an army. I'm just hoping there will be some leftovers!
My contribution always looks just like this--if Jay and Terri are here. The reason? Cherry-Coke is the only Jello salad Jay likes, so I never make anything different if he will be eating! It was my mother's recipe, and there's no telling how many times I've made it in my life. Kroger is now the only store which carries the black cherries.
The dressing was Jack's mother's recipe. If I do say so myself, and I do, it is mahvelous! Everyone's dressing is different, of course, so Shirley (Rob's mother) brings her family-favorite dressing, too. It is also mahvelous! Do you think we'll have enough?
The corn has a life of its own. It all started with the Shawnee pottery corn dish--two of which are pictured here. (I removed the lid of one so you could see the corn.) One of those was given to us when we married. It was a shower gift from a friend of Jack's mother in Forest Hill Baptist Church, where he attended. I used to buy one package of frozen cream style corn and one package of whole kernel corn (in multiples) to create my corn casserole. Then Green Giant changed the cream style to more of a whole kernel with cream sauce. So now, it's just buttered up cream style. But, a holiday would not be a holiday without this corn in these dishes. And talk about something hard to find, I have to go to Super 1 in Forest Hill to find this essential corn!
There's a funny story about the corn dishes. One Easter we had brought Madeline and Susannah home from church before going to lunch at their house. Jack placed our food, including the two filled corn dishes, in the back of his Navigator, having raised the third seat and fastened it with a seat belt to keep it up. We got everyone and everything loaded. Unbeknownst to us, Susannah unfastened her seat belt (the one holding the seat!) and fastened it back properly around her. We made it a block or so before the seat crashed down on our food! The amazing thing is this: Only the base of one dish broke. Not the fancy lid! And what's even more amazing? Later Rob's sister and brother-in-law, Linda and Pat, found a base--minus its lid--in Arkansas when they were there on their motorcycle! They schlepped it home, and I was back in business!
We have countless things for which to be thankful, but one of them has to be the traditions of our family--and a family that loves traditions.
That is enough cornbread dressing, corn, and cherry-Coke salad to feed an army. I'm just hoping there will be some leftovers!
My contribution always looks just like this--if Jay and Terri are here. The reason? Cherry-Coke is the only Jello salad Jay likes, so I never make anything different if he will be eating! It was my mother's recipe, and there's no telling how many times I've made it in my life. Kroger is now the only store which carries the black cherries.
The dressing was Jack's mother's recipe. If I do say so myself, and I do, it is mahvelous! Everyone's dressing is different, of course, so Shirley (Rob's mother) brings her family-favorite dressing, too. It is also mahvelous! Do you think we'll have enough?
The corn has a life of its own. It all started with the Shawnee pottery corn dish--two of which are pictured here. (I removed the lid of one so you could see the corn.) One of those was given to us when we married. It was a shower gift from a friend of Jack's mother in Forest Hill Baptist Church, where he attended. I used to buy one package of frozen cream style corn and one package of whole kernel corn (in multiples) to create my corn casserole. Then Green Giant changed the cream style to more of a whole kernel with cream sauce. So now, it's just buttered up cream style. But, a holiday would not be a holiday without this corn in these dishes. And talk about something hard to find, I have to go to Super 1 in Forest Hill to find this essential corn!
There's a funny story about the corn dishes. One Easter we had brought Madeline and Susannah home from church before going to lunch at their house. Jack placed our food, including the two filled corn dishes, in the back of his Navigator, having raised the third seat and fastened it with a seat belt to keep it up. We got everyone and everything loaded. Unbeknownst to us, Susannah unfastened her seat belt (the one holding the seat!) and fastened it back properly around her. We made it a block or so before the seat crashed down on our food! The amazing thing is this: Only the base of one dish broke. Not the fancy lid! And what's even more amazing? Later Rob's sister and brother-in-law, Linda and Pat, found a base--minus its lid--in Arkansas when they were there on their motorcycle! They schlepped it home, and I was back in business!
We have countless things for which to be thankful, but one of them has to be the traditions of our family--and a family that loves traditions.
Tuesday, November 22, 2011
What Will I Think of Next?
I may be qualifying for the Guinness Book of Records. Can you guess how? Believe me, you can't. It's not my athletic accomplishments (I'm sure someone can sit in a recliner longer than I.) It's definitely not my cooking prowess. It's sure not my dog training ability. Here it is: at age 74 I am having my teeth straightened--yes, wearing braces.
Here was my first stop this morning:
This was my first check-up on my Invisalign braces. Dr. Barbre comes with great credentials--he's the one who made Susannah Metzger's smile so beautiful!
Now I can't get Dr. Barbre to say I'm the oldest patient he's had. But...this morning I did get him to admit that, in order to get my teeth straight, I have the most Invisalign trays he's ever seen! These trays are supposed to be worn two weeks, then changed. But if, like me, you have 52 trays, the length of wear needs to be shortened to 10 days, or you (I) would never finish! (I'm guessing about half that number is required for a reasonable age person--seriously!) At best, calculating 52 X 10 equals an awfully long time.
Which brings up a question some of my dear friends have asked. Will I be around long enough to really benefit from this? Isn't that a sweet thought?!! I haven't told my girls yet because I think it just might freak them out, but I may want to be buried with a "smile." A tooth-showing smile.
These things are really supposed to be worn 23 hours per day, removed only for eating and brushing and flossing and brushing the trays! Shoot, all that takes almost an hour! I was o.k. until someone pointed out to me at lunch the first day I had them that that was 20 minutes per meal. My family will absolutely guffaw when they think of me eating a 20-minute meal. I am ALWAYS the last one to finish. Not to mention my morning coffee which I re-heat 15 times as I sip it. (Or used to.)
I was prepared for everyone to say that they had never noticed my teeth being crooked. So don't hesitate to say that if you feel called to. But I have two kinda "fangy" ones on top, and the bottom ones are really a mess. (To be truthful, there are actually 55 trays for the lower teeth. See, I told you they were bad.) Some of my friends really got a charge out of how I determined that the lower ones were a problem. I talked into a mirror to check to see if they showed. They do! No, I did not make a video.
I experienced the very worst, most awful repercussion of these braces after I left Dr. Barbre's office today. I went to Costco! There were all those wonderful samples, and I couldn't have a one! I wasn't going to spend any of my precious hour popping these things out and in and brushing!
Well, here I am with Dr. Barbre. We're going to be seeing a lot of each other.
Here was my first stop this morning:
This was my first check-up on my Invisalign braces. Dr. Barbre comes with great credentials--he's the one who made Susannah Metzger's smile so beautiful!
Now I can't get Dr. Barbre to say I'm the oldest patient he's had. But...this morning I did get him to admit that, in order to get my teeth straight, I have the most Invisalign trays he's ever seen! These trays are supposed to be worn two weeks, then changed. But if, like me, you have 52 trays, the length of wear needs to be shortened to 10 days, or you (I) would never finish! (I'm guessing about half that number is required for a reasonable age person--seriously!) At best, calculating 52 X 10 equals an awfully long time.
Which brings up a question some of my dear friends have asked. Will I be around long enough to really benefit from this? Isn't that a sweet thought?!! I haven't told my girls yet because I think it just might freak them out, but I may want to be buried with a "smile." A tooth-showing smile.
These things are really supposed to be worn 23 hours per day, removed only for eating and brushing and flossing and brushing the trays! Shoot, all that takes almost an hour! I was o.k. until someone pointed out to me at lunch the first day I had them that that was 20 minutes per meal. My family will absolutely guffaw when they think of me eating a 20-minute meal. I am ALWAYS the last one to finish. Not to mention my morning coffee which I re-heat 15 times as I sip it. (Or used to.)
I was prepared for everyone to say that they had never noticed my teeth being crooked. So don't hesitate to say that if you feel called to. But I have two kinda "fangy" ones on top, and the bottom ones are really a mess. (To be truthful, there are actually 55 trays for the lower teeth. See, I told you they were bad.) Some of my friends really got a charge out of how I determined that the lower ones were a problem. I talked into a mirror to check to see if they showed. They do! No, I did not make a video.
I experienced the very worst, most awful repercussion of these braces after I left Dr. Barbre's office today. I went to Costco! There were all those wonderful samples, and I couldn't have a one! I wasn't going to spend any of my precious hour popping these things out and in and brushing!
Well, here I am with Dr. Barbre. We're going to be seeing a lot of each other.
Saturday, November 5, 2011
No matter where I roam...
there's no bathroom like home! I'd like to give you a peek at what just might be the world's most beautiful bathroom. Yes, in all modesty, it belongs to me. And, with equal modesty, I designed and decorated it my very own self!
This project began eons ago when I purchased a beautiful new, free-standing, double sink unit. A dear friend took me to the Dallas Market where I found just what I wanted. This gorgeous thing was delivered to and stayed at the office warehouse forever and a day! Finally, Rob called one day and said, "Linda, I've got two guys who can come tear out your bathroom." Since procrastination is my middle name, I hesitated, but then said "Let's go."
Here's what started the whole thing!
I found the perfect mirrors to hang above it, and I love the oil rubbed bronze fixtures!
I then faced a slight complication. Madeline and Susannah had loved bathing in our old tub since they were babies because it was a jacuzzi tub. It had also developed some mold, and if there was the tiniest visible speck of black, they wouldn't stick a toe in it. So...not wanting another jacuzzi, I was faced with the prospect of disappointing my little angels. I told Rob of my dilemma, and he told me about a bubble tub. It has small openings evenly spaced near the bottom. It requires a motor (not easy to hide), which pushes air through the vents without re-circulating any water; therefore, no mold! We took out a bank loan (anything for the girls) and bought one from a fancy place in Dallas.
Here it is:
The girls are too busy to stay with me often any more. However, I LOVE this tub with a passion! The electricians (Parish Electric) went through the wall and placed the motor in the closet in the adjoining bedroom. So only a guest staying in there is bothered by the noise!
This picture also shows my fabulous vanity, if I do say so myself, and I do. I found a photo of this vanity in a magazine. My talented nephew, Mike Stovall, constructed it for me in unbelievable fashion. It has multiple drawers and is exactly what I wanted--exactly! I then took it to Billy Childress in Dallas for the fabric covering. It turned out exactly like the picture. Then I found the little mirror and stool! Voila! The fabrics are a beautiful green which is not done justice by the picture.
The gorgeous leaded glass window was constructed by Ronnie Beauchamp. I met his wife, Donna, at The Stitch Niche, invited her to Bible Study Fellowship, and we became good friends. I can't remember how I found out that Ronnie could do this. Again, it was exactly what I wanted, with Donna's and Ronnie's expert help.
Here it is at night: (Oh, and don't miss my chandelier!)
I love every single big and small thing about this bathroom. Here's the rug atop the 12 x 12 tiles laid diagonally. Rob's mom, Shirley, suggested the tile size and arrangement, for which I am so grateful!
There is a reason my bathroom is on my mind. I did all this changing, but I left the old shower enclosure for, well for a long time! It still looked like new. Jack dried it off perfectly after every shower. But, it was the only remaining shiny brass!
Here's how it looks now! It is frameless with oil rubbed bronze hardware.
This project began eons ago when I purchased a beautiful new, free-standing, double sink unit. A dear friend took me to the Dallas Market where I found just what I wanted. This gorgeous thing was delivered to and stayed at the office warehouse forever and a day! Finally, Rob called one day and said, "Linda, I've got two guys who can come tear out your bathroom." Since procrastination is my middle name, I hesitated, but then said "Let's go."
Here's what started the whole thing!
I found the perfect mirrors to hang above it, and I love the oil rubbed bronze fixtures!
I then faced a slight complication. Madeline and Susannah had loved bathing in our old tub since they were babies because it was a jacuzzi tub. It had also developed some mold, and if there was the tiniest visible speck of black, they wouldn't stick a toe in it. So...not wanting another jacuzzi, I was faced with the prospect of disappointing my little angels. I told Rob of my dilemma, and he told me about a bubble tub. It has small openings evenly spaced near the bottom. It requires a motor (not easy to hide), which pushes air through the vents without re-circulating any water; therefore, no mold! We took out a bank loan (anything for the girls) and bought one from a fancy place in Dallas.
Here it is:
The girls are too busy to stay with me often any more. However, I LOVE this tub with a passion! The electricians (Parish Electric) went through the wall and placed the motor in the closet in the adjoining bedroom. So only a guest staying in there is bothered by the noise!
This picture also shows my fabulous vanity, if I do say so myself, and I do. I found a photo of this vanity in a magazine. My talented nephew, Mike Stovall, constructed it for me in unbelievable fashion. It has multiple drawers and is exactly what I wanted--exactly! I then took it to Billy Childress in Dallas for the fabric covering. It turned out exactly like the picture. Then I found the little mirror and stool! Voila! The fabrics are a beautiful green which is not done justice by the picture.
The gorgeous leaded glass window was constructed by Ronnie Beauchamp. I met his wife, Donna, at The Stitch Niche, invited her to Bible Study Fellowship, and we became good friends. I can't remember how I found out that Ronnie could do this. Again, it was exactly what I wanted, with Donna's and Ronnie's expert help.
Here it is at night: (Oh, and don't miss my chandelier!)
I love every single big and small thing about this bathroom. Here's the rug atop the 12 x 12 tiles laid diagonally. Rob's mom, Shirley, suggested the tile size and arrangement, for which I am so grateful!
There is a reason my bathroom is on my mind. I did all this changing, but I left the old shower enclosure for, well for a long time! It still looked like new. Jack dried it off perfectly after every shower. But, it was the only remaining shiny brass!
Here's how it looks now! It is frameless with oil rubbed bronze hardware.
In the interest of good taste, I'm having a debate with myself about whether or not to show you the remaining outstanding feature of my "new" bathroom. O.K. I've decided to show you. It is a Toto commode. We stayed in a lovely hotel in Tokyo that had one of these. I came home with this unorthodox item on my wish list. Among its outstanding features is a heated seat!
So, there you have it. I'll bet I'm the only person in this whole world of millions and billions of people posting pictures of her potty this Saturday afternoon.
Monday, October 17, 2011
An Angel of Mercy
If you have been reading my blogs for a while, you may remember this. In recounting what God did for us at Silverado, I omitted a VIP. In fact, she was a very, very important person.
Her name is Lizeth. Many good caregivers came and went, but Lizeth was there for Jack from the day he arrived until the day he departed. She developed an amazingly special relationship with Jack. She was tiny compared to him, and I can still see her looking up at him adoringly. She kept Jack looking so handsome. I could always tell the minute I saw him whether or not Lizeth was working that day. If she was, his hair would be combed just right, and his clothes would match perfectly. As the community grew, the side on which Jack's room was located filled up, and another wing was opened. Lizeth was transferred to the "other side," but because of her special relationship with Jack, she was most graciously allowed to keep caring for him.
In March of 2010 I was called in to meet with Silverado hospice. Jack was being placed under their care. It seemed like extra attention would be given to him, and I was very excited. What slipped by me was that the hospice nurse was going to be giving Jack his showers, etc. That lasted exactly one day. That's how long it took us (by mutual agreement) to realize that Lizeth had built a relationship with Jack for 16 months that was irreplaceable.
Lizeth came to Jack's funeral but, being unfamiliar with Arlington, got lost and missed much of the tribute to him. This is my tribute to her. I will never, ever forget her love, patience, and kindness toward Jack in spite of the fact that he was unable to reciprocate.
Her name is Lizeth. Many good caregivers came and went, but Lizeth was there for Jack from the day he arrived until the day he departed. She developed an amazingly special relationship with Jack. She was tiny compared to him, and I can still see her looking up at him adoringly. She kept Jack looking so handsome. I could always tell the minute I saw him whether or not Lizeth was working that day. If she was, his hair would be combed just right, and his clothes would match perfectly. As the community grew, the side on which Jack's room was located filled up, and another wing was opened. Lizeth was transferred to the "other side," but because of her special relationship with Jack, she was most graciously allowed to keep caring for him.
In March of 2010 I was called in to meet with Silverado hospice. Jack was being placed under their care. It seemed like extra attention would be given to him, and I was very excited. What slipped by me was that the hospice nurse was going to be giving Jack his showers, etc. That lasted exactly one day. That's how long it took us (by mutual agreement) to realize that Lizeth had built a relationship with Jack for 16 months that was irreplaceable.
Lizeth came to Jack's funeral but, being unfamiliar with Arlington, got lost and missed much of the tribute to him. This is my tribute to her. I will never, ever forget her love, patience, and kindness toward Jack in spite of the fact that he was unable to reciprocate.
Saturday, October 15, 2011
Just Run Me Over to Newark, Please
It's rather painful to admit what a dum-dum mistake I made on my flight arrangements for my cruise. I got all wild when I was making the reservation and decided to give up 50,000 of my precious Aadvantage miles in order to fly first class. Now this in itself was not a mistake. Nothing makes me feel as luxurious as a first class flight!
I began to look at the flights with one main requirement: they must include a meal. For that many miles a snack just wouldn't do. I knew that Newark, LaGuardia, and JFK airports are not very far apart. Just like Miami and Ft. Lauderdale, I assumed. So...I found a perfect pair of flights in and out of LaGuardia. No problem. I got my hotel in Newark and called the car service Royal Caribbean recommended to "meet and greet" me and drive me to the hotel.
We have used lots of car services very satisfactorily through the years, but this one didn't work out very well. There was no driver holding up my name when I got to baggage claim. I had to pull my two big bags off the carousel myself, then schlep them behind me while I looked for my guy. Oh...there he was. The one in the turban!
Here we are going through the Holland Tunnel. He immediately told me pictures are not allowed. I expected to have authorities waiting for me at the end.
We fought our way slowly and agonizingly through 5:00 traffic and finally arrived at the Hilton, Penn Station, Newark. This guy just dumped me out to pull my two big bags inside myself. I had already paid my full bill by phone, but I gave him an extra $10! I know. Don't ask me why!
I assumed the ship would have a bus going back to LaGuardia after the cruise. Wrong. Only to Newark. So I called my faithful car company to come get me. When they started quoting prices to me, I got suspicious and asked just how much they had charged my credit card for the first trip. It was almost twice as much as I had been quoted! I don't even know what it all was--except for tolls and 14 minutes of waiting time! This guy claimed to have waited 14 minutes on me!
I left the ship planning to take a taxi back to LaGuardia, but the nice young porter who helped me get through customs with the two monster bags, introduced me to LouAnn, my new best friend. She works for a transportation service, and she told me I could go in a private cab for way less than what the car company had charged me or in a shuttle for $27! I opted for the shuttle. And LouAnn was pleased to tell me I had Bob, one of her best drivers.
If Bob was the best, I'm glad I didn't get with the worst. Bob wouldn't leave until the van was packed sardine-style full. Then he grabbed the wheel, leaned forward, and floored it. He had the windows in the front wide open, which was giving my expensive ship hairdo a real challenge! At one point when Bob wasn't looking, I leaned up and put the passenger front window up. He immediately had it back down when I wasn't looking! And thank goodness I had plenty of time before my flight. We went to JFK first, then took a couple to their home, then to LaGuardia--the arrival level rather than the departure!
All this for two meals. The first one was very good. The second was so bad I couldn't even eat it. Not that I was hungry anyway after 9 days of pigging out.
The car company finally agreed as a "one time courtesy" (as if there would ever be a second time!) to refund most of the overcharge. I learned a lesson. It may not be very far from New York to Newark, but it's complicated!
I began to look at the flights with one main requirement: they must include a meal. For that many miles a snack just wouldn't do. I knew that Newark, LaGuardia, and JFK airports are not very far apart. Just like Miami and Ft. Lauderdale, I assumed. So...I found a perfect pair of flights in and out of LaGuardia. No problem. I got my hotel in Newark and called the car service Royal Caribbean recommended to "meet and greet" me and drive me to the hotel.
We have used lots of car services very satisfactorily through the years, but this one didn't work out very well. There was no driver holding up my name when I got to baggage claim. I had to pull my two big bags off the carousel myself, then schlep them behind me while I looked for my guy. Oh...there he was. The one in the turban!
Here we are going through the Holland Tunnel. He immediately told me pictures are not allowed. I expected to have authorities waiting for me at the end.
We fought our way slowly and agonizingly through 5:00 traffic and finally arrived at the Hilton, Penn Station, Newark. This guy just dumped me out to pull my two big bags inside myself. I had already paid my full bill by phone, but I gave him an extra $10! I know. Don't ask me why!
I assumed the ship would have a bus going back to LaGuardia after the cruise. Wrong. Only to Newark. So I called my faithful car company to come get me. When they started quoting prices to me, I got suspicious and asked just how much they had charged my credit card for the first trip. It was almost twice as much as I had been quoted! I don't even know what it all was--except for tolls and 14 minutes of waiting time! This guy claimed to have waited 14 minutes on me!
I left the ship planning to take a taxi back to LaGuardia, but the nice young porter who helped me get through customs with the two monster bags, introduced me to LouAnn, my new best friend. She works for a transportation service, and she told me I could go in a private cab for way less than what the car company had charged me or in a shuttle for $27! I opted for the shuttle. And LouAnn was pleased to tell me I had Bob, one of her best drivers.
If Bob was the best, I'm glad I didn't get with the worst. Bob wouldn't leave until the van was packed sardine-style full. Then he grabbed the wheel, leaned forward, and floored it. He had the windows in the front wide open, which was giving my expensive ship hairdo a real challenge! At one point when Bob wasn't looking, I leaned up and put the passenger front window up. He immediately had it back down when I wasn't looking! And thank goodness I had plenty of time before my flight. We went to JFK first, then took a couple to their home, then to LaGuardia--the arrival level rather than the departure!
All this for two meals. The first one was very good. The second was so bad I couldn't even eat it. Not that I was hungry anyway after 9 days of pigging out.
The car company finally agreed as a "one time courtesy" (as if there would ever be a second time!) to refund most of the overcharge. I learned a lesson. It may not be very far from New York to Newark, but it's complicated!
Friday, October 14, 2011
The Skunk Saga Continues
As I left you in my last post, Charleigh-Girl was getting her second shampoo with the special potion to remove her skunk odor. I told you how good I was getting with this. WRONG. My massaging of her hair left her with dreadlock type twists in her undercoat. Of course, I had to pay for having those combed out while she was boarded during my trip. I did get the odor out, though! And it wasn't as expensive as when I trotted her stinky self into the emergency animal clinic!
I called a company which shall remain nameless and which specializes in trapping wild animals. Their charge was: $399 (!) for setting the trap and catching one (1) (and only one (1)) animal. Each additional animal they caught would be $149!!! So...I called my "Sam of all trades." He bought the exact same trap the nameless company uses for $70. He set it with cat food. Voila! We've now caught 4 or 5 possums.
But...today I called him to tell him we had another possum. This is a picture of the "possum."
For those of you who know as little about wild animals as I do, this is a raccoon, not a possum. What's more, when Sam approached the trap, this was one very angry raccoon. I have had to call animal control (a lengthy process in itself) to come take charge of this angry critter.
Sam and I are thinking we need to put a sign on the trap, "Only skunks allowed!"
I called a company which shall remain nameless and which specializes in trapping wild animals. Their charge was: $399 (!) for setting the trap and catching one (1) (and only one (1)) animal. Each additional animal they caught would be $149!!! So...I called my "Sam of all trades." He bought the exact same trap the nameless company uses for $70. He set it with cat food. Voila! We've now caught 4 or 5 possums.
But...today I called him to tell him we had another possum. This is a picture of the "possum."
For those of you who know as little about wild animals as I do, this is a raccoon, not a possum. What's more, when Sam approached the trap, this was one very angry raccoon. I have had to call animal control (a lengthy process in itself) to come take charge of this angry critter.
Sam and I are thinking we need to put a sign on the trap, "Only skunks allowed!"
Wednesday, September 21, 2011
Just Another Morning at My House
I got up nice and early this morning because it was Bible Study Fellowship day. I turned on the coffee maker, fed Charleigh-Girl, let her outside, and looked at the clock. It was 6:32. Good, because I needed to be at BSF early. I am assistant secretary for our class, and there was an instructional meeting for those in that position at 9:00. And, I didn't really know what I was going to wear. Oh, and I had a leetle bit of last minute touch-up to do on my lesson.
Within a very few minutes I smelled a skunk. I thought, "Surely not again." I looked out the back door, and there stood a forlorn looking little C-G with wet, slicked-down hair on her little head, neck, and front legs. Sure enough, she must have once again tried to befriend a black and white creature.
For several reasons, this was not as bad as the first time the girl tangled with a skunk. First, this is September. The weather is good. The first time it was very cold--maybe even icy. Second, she was not shaking her head violently like she did the first time. But that shaking and the strangeness of the odor the first time caused me to...you're not going to believe this...put her in my car and drive her to the 24-hour animal clinic at about 10:30 P.M. Boy, were we popular in there! They wanted us to leave, but they made the mistake of telling me her eyes might need washed out if the skunk had sprayed her directly in the face. So, we waited for a vet. It was ridiculous how we stunk up the place! The vet dutifully washed out her eyes and sent me home with a recipe for an odor remover.
This time I knew what to do. I just didn't have an unopened bottle of hydrogen peroxide, so I had to make an early morning run to CVS looking absolutely stunning. I mixed up my potion, and she was so good while I rubbed it on her--outside. At least I didn't have to pick the big lug up and put her in the bathtub! When we got to the rinsing with a hose, however, she balked. I had to chase, beg, and bribe to rinse her. She finally just gave up and lay down in the grass submissively.
I didn't make the 9:00 meeting, but I was on time to the opening assembly! Of course, I felt like I smelled like a skunk. But at least my car didn't. (And my friend Becky told me I didn't either.) I deodorized my car last time with the same solution I used on Charleigh. It's a wonder it didn't ruin the leather upholstery. And it didn't work, so I drove around (alone) for weeks with baking soda in cake pans all around my car.
I'm really getting to be quite good at this. If it happens again, I think I'll be composed enough to take a picture. She really was hilariously pitiful looking. Gotta go and use the potion on the girl again. She's gonna want to sleep in my bed tonight!
Within a very few minutes I smelled a skunk. I thought, "Surely not again." I looked out the back door, and there stood a forlorn looking little C-G with wet, slicked-down hair on her little head, neck, and front legs. Sure enough, she must have once again tried to befriend a black and white creature.
For several reasons, this was not as bad as the first time the girl tangled with a skunk. First, this is September. The weather is good. The first time it was very cold--maybe even icy. Second, she was not shaking her head violently like she did the first time. But that shaking and the strangeness of the odor the first time caused me to...you're not going to believe this...put her in my car and drive her to the 24-hour animal clinic at about 10:30 P.M. Boy, were we popular in there! They wanted us to leave, but they made the mistake of telling me her eyes might need washed out if the skunk had sprayed her directly in the face. So, we waited for a vet. It was ridiculous how we stunk up the place! The vet dutifully washed out her eyes and sent me home with a recipe for an odor remover.
This time I knew what to do. I just didn't have an unopened bottle of hydrogen peroxide, so I had to make an early morning run to CVS looking absolutely stunning. I mixed up my potion, and she was so good while I rubbed it on her--outside. At least I didn't have to pick the big lug up and put her in the bathtub! When we got to the rinsing with a hose, however, she balked. I had to chase, beg, and bribe to rinse her. She finally just gave up and lay down in the grass submissively.
I didn't make the 9:00 meeting, but I was on time to the opening assembly! Of course, I felt like I smelled like a skunk. But at least my car didn't. (And my friend Becky told me I didn't either.) I deodorized my car last time with the same solution I used on Charleigh. It's a wonder it didn't ruin the leather upholstery. And it didn't work, so I drove around (alone) for weeks with baking soda in cake pans all around my car.
I'm really getting to be quite good at this. If it happens again, I think I'll be composed enough to take a picture. She really was hilariously pitiful looking. Gotta go and use the potion on the girl again. She's gonna want to sleep in my bed tonight!
Monday, September 5, 2011
An Unexpected Reason for Gratitude
I am proud to count among my friends a beautiful young mom named Shay Shull. Shay is Darlene Mitchell's granddaughter. Darlene told the bridge group about Shay's blog, and I have followed it faithfully ever since. Her blog actually got me interested in blogging myself.
For 13 years Shay journaled in something called The Simple Abundance Journal of Gratitude. Her mom, Sherry, bought her the first journal while Shay was still in high school. She never missed a day for those 13 years--not a day! The journal provides lines for 5 things for which one is thankful each day. Now these are not intended to be big things like our family or the Bible, but small things like...finding a close parking place at the mall or having a nice Sunday nap.
Well, I just loved this idea. It was "right down my alley," so I ordered the journal from Amazon. To say I haven't been quite as faithful to the journal as Shay would be a gross understatement. I journal for one day and skip five. Let's just say my journal will be re-usable next year.
Let's also say what brought the journal to mind this morning is highly unusual. It is coffee. Yes, this morning I am thankful that God made coffee. It is the first cool morning after a torturously, miserably hot summer. It is amazing how many Facebook entries mention coffee drinking in this beautiful, cool weather, including mine. I said, "I sat out on the swing and drank my coffee this morning."
Just think...without coffee we wouldn't have Starbucks! We would probably be far less social, less perky creatures. Life without my Keurig? I don't think so!
So raise your cup of whatever flavor or unflavor of joe you prefer and toast with me to the coming of fall to Texas! And be thankful, oh so thankful!
For 13 years Shay journaled in something called The Simple Abundance Journal of Gratitude. Her mom, Sherry, bought her the first journal while Shay was still in high school. She never missed a day for those 13 years--not a day! The journal provides lines for 5 things for which one is thankful each day. Now these are not intended to be big things like our family or the Bible, but small things like...finding a close parking place at the mall or having a nice Sunday nap.
Well, I just loved this idea. It was "right down my alley," so I ordered the journal from Amazon. To say I haven't been quite as faithful to the journal as Shay would be a gross understatement. I journal for one day and skip five. Let's just say my journal will be re-usable next year.
Let's also say what brought the journal to mind this morning is highly unusual. It is coffee. Yes, this morning I am thankful that God made coffee. It is the first cool morning after a torturously, miserably hot summer. It is amazing how many Facebook entries mention coffee drinking in this beautiful, cool weather, including mine. I said, "I sat out on the swing and drank my coffee this morning."
Just think...without coffee we wouldn't have Starbucks! We would probably be far less social, less perky creatures. Life without my Keurig? I don't think so!
So raise your cup of whatever flavor or unflavor of joe you prefer and toast with me to the coming of fall to Texas! And be thankful, oh so thankful!
Monday, August 15, 2011
A Bumpy August
What a summer! Or maybe, what an August! Do you want to hear about it? Probably not, but here goes anyway! (My therapy, remember.)
First, there was the burglar alarm problem. After the 4th visit from an ADT service man, I pitched a fit! It was not one of my proudest moments, but it worked. I was switched from talking to Florida (where my alarm is monitored) to talking to Fort Worth (which actually dispatches the repairmen.) The manager there finally sent a lead technician out. After showing me the multiple mistakes of the other servicemen, he fixed my problem(s) in a permanent manner! Hallelujah! I have a much improved smoke detection system, which is a biggie.
Mingled in with those service calls was a sprinkler head problem. The sprinklers are set to run in the early morning hours, so when one malfunctions it is not evident until the next morning. By that time there was a lake in front of my house and my neighbor's house. This actually happened twice. And, yes, you should see my water bill! (I do have an excellent sprinkler guy--Kevin Jones.)
A co-conspirator on my water bill is my pool. One day I noticed that my pool guy (neighbor Scott Bradley) had the water running to fill up the pool. But...it ran and ran and the pool was not filling up. I suspected right away that I had another crack. It is a fiberglass pool which had sustained a crack once before. Sure enough here was Scott tapping at my back door to give me the bad news. I had saved the name of the excellent repair company from the prior incident. The man who fixed it before finally got here to look at it Friday and was supposed to be here to attempt the repair today. Unfortunately, he couldn't come, but I did get a call nice and early this morning informing me of that.
Then there's my electricity situation. Jack and I always patted ourselves and each other on the back for our loyalty to good old Texas Electric, or whatever name it's going by now. We had stuck with them for 50 plus years. I suppose you know how they rewarded us for our loyalty. Yes, they overcharged us! Fortunately, a 24 month contract I had signed with them expired, and I heard about another carrier charging less, at about the same time. So...bye, bye old "friend." Wish I'd booted you two years ago.
In an unrelated problem, I was sitting having lunch a couple of Saturdays ago, and I got a call from my credit card company. While I was using my credit card for an inexpensive lunch in Arlington, someone was using an actual card with my name and number on it in Orlando, Florida, buying very expensive items. Now how in the world could that happen? Well, I think it's something called "skimming," but I have no idea how it would be possible. I spent mucho time on the phone that weekend trying to find out what I needed to do, much of it to the Philippines. (Out-sourcing has to be one of my pet peeves.) They forwarded forms which my computer couldn't download properly, gave me contradictory information, etc., etc., etc. I now have a new card but still face the hassle of changing any automatic charges to the new number.
So, how was your August? I'm definitely kidding. I am still blessed beyond measure, and WAY beyond what I deserve.
"Rejoice in the Lord always; again I say Rejoice. Let all men know your gentleness. (Sorry, ADT in Florida.) The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything (certainly not a pool), but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will be granted your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." Philippians 4:4-7
First, there was the burglar alarm problem. After the 4th visit from an ADT service man, I pitched a fit! It was not one of my proudest moments, but it worked. I was switched from talking to Florida (where my alarm is monitored) to talking to Fort Worth (which actually dispatches the repairmen.) The manager there finally sent a lead technician out. After showing me the multiple mistakes of the other servicemen, he fixed my problem(s) in a permanent manner! Hallelujah! I have a much improved smoke detection system, which is a biggie.
Mingled in with those service calls was a sprinkler head problem. The sprinklers are set to run in the early morning hours, so when one malfunctions it is not evident until the next morning. By that time there was a lake in front of my house and my neighbor's house. This actually happened twice. And, yes, you should see my water bill! (I do have an excellent sprinkler guy--Kevin Jones.)
A co-conspirator on my water bill is my pool. One day I noticed that my pool guy (neighbor Scott Bradley) had the water running to fill up the pool. But...it ran and ran and the pool was not filling up. I suspected right away that I had another crack. It is a fiberglass pool which had sustained a crack once before. Sure enough here was Scott tapping at my back door to give me the bad news. I had saved the name of the excellent repair company from the prior incident. The man who fixed it before finally got here to look at it Friday and was supposed to be here to attempt the repair today. Unfortunately, he couldn't come, but I did get a call nice and early this morning informing me of that.
Then there's my electricity situation. Jack and I always patted ourselves and each other on the back for our loyalty to good old Texas Electric, or whatever name it's going by now. We had stuck with them for 50 plus years. I suppose you know how they rewarded us for our loyalty. Yes, they overcharged us! Fortunately, a 24 month contract I had signed with them expired, and I heard about another carrier charging less, at about the same time. So...bye, bye old "friend." Wish I'd booted you two years ago.
In an unrelated problem, I was sitting having lunch a couple of Saturdays ago, and I got a call from my credit card company. While I was using my credit card for an inexpensive lunch in Arlington, someone was using an actual card with my name and number on it in Orlando, Florida, buying very expensive items. Now how in the world could that happen? Well, I think it's something called "skimming," but I have no idea how it would be possible. I spent mucho time on the phone that weekend trying to find out what I needed to do, much of it to the Philippines. (Out-sourcing has to be one of my pet peeves.) They forwarded forms which my computer couldn't download properly, gave me contradictory information, etc., etc., etc. I now have a new card but still face the hassle of changing any automatic charges to the new number.
So, how was your August? I'm definitely kidding. I am still blessed beyond measure, and WAY beyond what I deserve.
"Rejoice in the Lord always; again I say Rejoice. Let all men know your gentleness. (Sorry, ADT in Florida.) The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything (certainly not a pool), but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will be granted your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." Philippians 4:4-7
Monday, August 1, 2011
A Progress Report
I know you are all waiting eagerly to hear how the "new" Charleigh-Girl is doing! It is pretty hard to believe. She has been rigorously tested by repeated visits from the ADT Security repair guy. He has been here Thursday, Friday, and twice today. (And it's still not fixed.) Charleigh-Girl has not jumped on him one single time! That has never happened before in 6 years!
I have also been able to put a stop to her idiosyncrasies--going crazy over the icemaker, the popping open of canned drinks, taking off my shoes, my answering the phone, etc., etc., etc.!
I'm not sure, however, just exactly who has been busted. I fear it might me moi. I have to really stay on my toes to be consistent. It is not permissible for me to pet her every time she requests. I have to initiate the petting, and she has to sit first, since I'm now the boss! It may be easier to teach an old dog new tricks than to teach an old owner new tricks.
I have also been able to put a stop to her idiosyncrasies--going crazy over the icemaker, the popping open of canned drinks, taking off my shoes, my answering the phone, etc., etc., etc.!
I'm not sure, however, just exactly who has been busted. I fear it might me moi. I have to really stay on my toes to be consistent. It is not permissible for me to pet her every time she requests. I have to initiate the petting, and she has to sit first, since I'm now the boss! It may be easier to teach an old dog new tricks than to teach an old owner new tricks.
Wednesday, July 27, 2011
Sorry, Charleigh, You've Been BUSTED
I'm sure anyone reading this knows I have a problem dog. For the 6 years I've had Charleigh-Girl she has run me ragged. Even Monday of this week I put her on her leash and tried with all my might to keep her off the two nice people who came to service my air conditioning units. She pulled so hard that my poor back is wrenched and resting on the heating pad as I type. Nearly killed me.
Rob's mother, Shirley, had an angel come into her life during Zane's illness. His name is Dan Strickland, and he is a professional dog trainer. I was so impressed with what Dan did with Shirley's Sam that I asked him if he could come help me with C-G. He told me that I was out of his territory, but that his firm, Bark Busters, had a great trainer for my area. I finally got on line and checked it out. Turns out, the Bark Buster for my area lives 2 minutes from me. His name is Michael Hoskinson.
Michael had great recommendations on line. People who seemed to think their dogs were as bad as Charleigh said that within 10 minutes of Michael's arrival their dog was no longer rushing the front door! Several folks who will remain nameless actually snickered when I suggested that might happen with you-know-who.
Well, Michael came to my house this morning. Guess what? Before he left, Charleigh wasn't even approaching the front door when he went out and rang the bell! She is, however, rather morose this afternoon. She's been fired as my boss! She no longer owns a house! She is no longer allowed to bark at everything that moves on the street in front of the house she formerly owned. It's a lot for a girl to handle in one day. But...Michael says she will be a happier, more relaxed dog now that she isn't in charge of me. I know I will be happier and more relaxed!
I took "before and after" videos. They are just mahvelous, but I can't get them to copy. Stand by--I have proof!
Rob's mother, Shirley, had an angel come into her life during Zane's illness. His name is Dan Strickland, and he is a professional dog trainer. I was so impressed with what Dan did with Shirley's Sam that I asked him if he could come help me with C-G. He told me that I was out of his territory, but that his firm, Bark Busters, had a great trainer for my area. I finally got on line and checked it out. Turns out, the Bark Buster for my area lives 2 minutes from me. His name is Michael Hoskinson.
Michael had great recommendations on line. People who seemed to think their dogs were as bad as Charleigh said that within 10 minutes of Michael's arrival their dog was no longer rushing the front door! Several folks who will remain nameless actually snickered when I suggested that might happen with you-know-who.
Well, Michael came to my house this morning. Guess what? Before he left, Charleigh wasn't even approaching the front door when he went out and rang the bell! She is, however, rather morose this afternoon. She's been fired as my boss! She no longer owns a house! She is no longer allowed to bark at everything that moves on the street in front of the house she formerly owned. It's a lot for a girl to handle in one day. But...Michael says she will be a happier, more relaxed dog now that she isn't in charge of me. I know I will be happier and more relaxed!
I took "before and after" videos. They are just mahvelous, but I can't get them to copy. Stand by--I have proof!
Wednesday, July 20, 2011
It Was Such a Great Idea
In 1998 I requested a blank journal for my birthday. Its purpose was to record clever, funny things that Madeline, 4 1/2, and Susannah, 2 1/2, had been saying almost since the day they were born--knowing that I would not be able to remember them. So...here is the journal today.
Yes, I got it. No, I didn't write in it. I did, however, jot down notes on various pieces of paper--just not nearly enough! I got it out today and reveled in the memories it contains. So, after all these years, I will transfer all notes to the journal.
I know you all have treasured memories like these....
I wrote, "Today, on the way home from Fielder Road preschool, the girls were discussing their upcoming birthdays. Madeline said she wanted to have boys, as well as girls, at her party. Susannah said she didn't want any boys. Madeline then told her if she didn't invite boys she couldn't invite Gaga (Jack), because he was a boy. Susannah said, "I don't care if Gaga is a boy! Mommy, can I invite Gaga? I wanta invite Gaga. I don't care..." Susan called and left us a message relating this incident, and at the end we could actually hear Susannah saying, "I don't care if Gaga is a boy!"
When Madeline was 5 we took a family trip to Disneyworld. There was a wonderful pianist who played nightly at the Grand Floridian where we stayed. One night Madeline said to Rob, "Daddy, he grew up to be a fine musician!" At age 5!
There were tears when I read this one. In August of 2002 when Susannah was almost 7, we were playing with my beautiful childhood dollhouse. She began giving me a demonstration of breakable vs. unbreakable using various plastic and ceramic items from the dollhouse. She would pick up a plastic dog and throw it down on the carpet saying, "I can throw this one down and it won't break." Then she would pick up a breakable item and say she couldn't throw it down. Suddenly she picked up the "Mimi" plastic figure we had bought. She said, "I could throw this one down," and she turned toward me with the most earnest look in those beautiful blue eyes, and said, "but I wouldn't want to."
Susan and Madeline were driving Rob's Jeep. Madeline was in her carseat and saw a pair of Rob's boots in the floor of the back seat. She asked Susan what they were doing there. Susan said, "Well, this is his car, you know." And Madeline said, "Well, it's not his closet!" (This from someone who usually had numerous pairs of dance shoes, etc. in the car.)
At age 5 Susannah asked Susan why dogs have 4 legs and people just 2. Susan tried to explain about that being the way God created them and balanced them, etc. Susannah said, "I know another reason. If I walked on 4 legs you couldn't see the front of my outfit!"
There are many stories about how much the girls liked to come spend time at our house. I realize now that there is nothing better to remember, and having specifics is priceless. Even without the ravages of Alzheimer's disease, our memories definitely do not get better as we get older. I would encourage all of you grandmothers and future grandmothers to take my great idea and develop it more fully than I did.
Yes, I got it. No, I didn't write in it. I did, however, jot down notes on various pieces of paper--just not nearly enough! I got it out today and reveled in the memories it contains. So, after all these years, I will transfer all notes to the journal.
I know you all have treasured memories like these....
I wrote, "Today, on the way home from Fielder Road preschool, the girls were discussing their upcoming birthdays. Madeline said she wanted to have boys, as well as girls, at her party. Susannah said she didn't want any boys. Madeline then told her if she didn't invite boys she couldn't invite Gaga (Jack), because he was a boy. Susannah said, "I don't care if Gaga is a boy! Mommy, can I invite Gaga? I wanta invite Gaga. I don't care..." Susan called and left us a message relating this incident, and at the end we could actually hear Susannah saying, "I don't care if Gaga is a boy!"
When Madeline was 5 we took a family trip to Disneyworld. There was a wonderful pianist who played nightly at the Grand Floridian where we stayed. One night Madeline said to Rob, "Daddy, he grew up to be a fine musician!" At age 5!
There were tears when I read this one. In August of 2002 when Susannah was almost 7, we were playing with my beautiful childhood dollhouse. She began giving me a demonstration of breakable vs. unbreakable using various plastic and ceramic items from the dollhouse. She would pick up a plastic dog and throw it down on the carpet saying, "I can throw this one down and it won't break." Then she would pick up a breakable item and say she couldn't throw it down. Suddenly she picked up the "Mimi" plastic figure we had bought. She said, "I could throw this one down," and she turned toward me with the most earnest look in those beautiful blue eyes, and said, "but I wouldn't want to."
Susan and Madeline were driving Rob's Jeep. Madeline was in her carseat and saw a pair of Rob's boots in the floor of the back seat. She asked Susan what they were doing there. Susan said, "Well, this is his car, you know." And Madeline said, "Well, it's not his closet!" (This from someone who usually had numerous pairs of dance shoes, etc. in the car.)
At age 5 Susannah asked Susan why dogs have 4 legs and people just 2. Susan tried to explain about that being the way God created them and balanced them, etc. Susannah said, "I know another reason. If I walked on 4 legs you couldn't see the front of my outfit!"
There are many stories about how much the girls liked to come spend time at our house. I realize now that there is nothing better to remember, and having specifics is priceless. Even without the ravages of Alzheimer's disease, our memories definitely do not get better as we get older. I would encourage all of you grandmothers and future grandmothers to take my great idea and develop it more fully than I did.
Wednesday, June 29, 2011
An Inescapable Memory
The highway signs tonight say "Missing elderly, Dallas, TX," along with the license number of a silver Lexus. This brought a memory flooding back over me.
One Saturday morning I asked Jack to drive to the Lake Arlington branch of Arlington National Bank for me. He took Charleigh-Girl along. Suddenly I realized way too much time had elapsed, and they weren't home. I called his cell phone and heard it ringing in our bedroom. Jack had been a person who NEVER forgot his cell phone, but he had this time. Panic overtook me immediately. I didn't know what to do. I didn't know where to begin to look, and I hated to leave home in case they did manage to return.
I'm afraid it was as long as an hour, but the phone finally rang. It was Jack. I can hardly even type this without crying. Such a heart-breaking voice saying, "I'm lost." He told me he was at a pay phone, but he had no idea where it was. I asked him what he could see from where he was, and he was able to tell me very little. I don't know how I figured it out, but I did, told him to sit tight until I got there, and drove right to them.
Jack and Charleigh-Girl were about the most pitiful sight I have ever seen. They were sitting in his car at the SW corner of the Mansfield Highway and Loop 820 in the large parking lot of a service station. This is a corner at which Jack had stopped hundreds of times in sixteen years of traveling from our home in Meadowbrook to his office in Kennedale. There is hardly a corner with which he should have been more familiar. It is also within sight of the Forest Hill city limits where he grew up.
The amazing thing was that he either remembered our phone number or was able to look it up on a card he carried in his pocket, and that he was able to dial it.
I have no idea how he got to this location. He just as easily could have driven miles away and ended up on one of those signs. This is yet another instance of God's blessing and protection.
One Saturday morning I asked Jack to drive to the Lake Arlington branch of Arlington National Bank for me. He took Charleigh-Girl along. Suddenly I realized way too much time had elapsed, and they weren't home. I called his cell phone and heard it ringing in our bedroom. Jack had been a person who NEVER forgot his cell phone, but he had this time. Panic overtook me immediately. I didn't know what to do. I didn't know where to begin to look, and I hated to leave home in case they did manage to return.
I'm afraid it was as long as an hour, but the phone finally rang. It was Jack. I can hardly even type this without crying. Such a heart-breaking voice saying, "I'm lost." He told me he was at a pay phone, but he had no idea where it was. I asked him what he could see from where he was, and he was able to tell me very little. I don't know how I figured it out, but I did, told him to sit tight until I got there, and drove right to them.
Jack and Charleigh-Girl were about the most pitiful sight I have ever seen. They were sitting in his car at the SW corner of the Mansfield Highway and Loop 820 in the large parking lot of a service station. This is a corner at which Jack had stopped hundreds of times in sixteen years of traveling from our home in Meadowbrook to his office in Kennedale. There is hardly a corner with which he should have been more familiar. It is also within sight of the Forest Hill city limits where he grew up.
The amazing thing was that he either remembered our phone number or was able to look it up on a card he carried in his pocket, and that he was able to dial it.
I have no idea how he got to this location. He just as easily could have driven miles away and ended up on one of those signs. This is yet another instance of God's blessing and protection.
Saturday, June 18, 2011
I'm Mad.
First I hear that I will be in a higher tax bracket this year because I am a widow! I certainly did not choose to be a single person instead of a couple filing jointly. Am I the only one to whom this doesn't seem to make sense?
But this morning I'm frustrated with American Airlines. I know, what else is new. As long as I can remember we have had an AAdvantage credit card whereby we get miles for every dollar spent. Those miles had to go to either Jack's advantage account or mine. I opted for him to get the miles, even all those years when he was unable to make a purchase or pay a bill. What I didn't know is that, when he died, the miles he had accumulated toward "gold" status would die with him. I got his active miles (the ones which could be used for a free ticket), but even though he was right at the threshold of gold status for life, and even though we earned all those miles as a unit, they are gone. So sorry...too bad...no, you can't talk to anyone else...bye bye.
Really, the advantages of gold status are not that big a deal...early boarding, extra bags...oh, wait, that is a big deal! I'm a world class over-packer. But mainly, of course, it's the principle of the thing! While stewing over this it occurred to me--just think how small a price AA would pay to make a loyal, lifelong customer happy. A couple of extra bags a year.
But this morning I'm frustrated with American Airlines. I know, what else is new. As long as I can remember we have had an AAdvantage credit card whereby we get miles for every dollar spent. Those miles had to go to either Jack's advantage account or mine. I opted for him to get the miles, even all those years when he was unable to make a purchase or pay a bill. What I didn't know is that, when he died, the miles he had accumulated toward "gold" status would die with him. I got his active miles (the ones which could be used for a free ticket), but even though he was right at the threshold of gold status for life, and even though we earned all those miles as a unit, they are gone. So sorry...too bad...no, you can't talk to anyone else...bye bye.
Really, the advantages of gold status are not that big a deal...early boarding, extra bags...oh, wait, that is a big deal! I'm a world class over-packer. But mainly, of course, it's the principle of the thing! While stewing over this it occurred to me--just think how small a price AA would pay to make a loyal, lifelong customer happy. A couple of extra bags a year.
Friday, June 3, 2011
A Heavy Heart Today
My cousin Sarah and her family are heavy on my heart today. Many of you have met Sarah and know how much I love her. Some of you also know that I am headed for her cabin in Alpine, Arizona, soon for the wedding of her daughter, Emily. Also, you may remember that I have been there twice in the summers for "girls' week."
What you probably don't know is that there is a terrible fire called the Wallow fire, burning out of control in Arizona. The last news I read showed it to be only 12 miles SW of Alpine. The little town was evacuated last night. Sarah and her husband Dick had left Alpine yesterday morning for their home in Tucson, where Emily is to have a shower tomorrow.
If you will click here http://www.wmicentral.com/ you will see pictures and stories about the fire. It's very hard for me to look at these. I can't even imagine how it is affecting Sarah's family. Dick built their beautiful log home and "tweaks" it constantly.
Not to mention sweet Emily, the bride-to-be. All the plans have been carefully made for a fabulous wedding on the beautiful deck of the home on June 18th. Of course, these plans have been in the works for months.
Praying friends, will you please pray for an end to this devastating fire? At this point I believe God alone can save Alpine.
What you probably don't know is that there is a terrible fire called the Wallow fire, burning out of control in Arizona. The last news I read showed it to be only 12 miles SW of Alpine. The little town was evacuated last night. Sarah and her husband Dick had left Alpine yesterday morning for their home in Tucson, where Emily is to have a shower tomorrow.
If you will click here http://www.wmicentral.com/ you will see pictures and stories about the fire. It's very hard for me to look at these. I can't even imagine how it is affecting Sarah's family. Dick built their beautiful log home and "tweaks" it constantly.
Not to mention sweet Emily, the bride-to-be. All the plans have been carefully made for a fabulous wedding on the beautiful deck of the home on June 18th. Of course, these plans have been in the works for months.
Praying friends, will you please pray for an end to this devastating fire? At this point I believe God alone can save Alpine.
Saturday, May 21, 2011
A Treasured Tribute
Today was a big day for me. I got to see Susan in Hello, Dolly for the first time. I am almost speechless, both because of her performance and because of this from her bio in the program:
"Susan dedicates this show to her very own Dolly Levi...her mother, Linda Stovall! After years of loving care for my wonderful father during his illness...she has "rejoined the human race" in a way that has amazed and blessed everyone around her! "BEFORE THE PARADE PASSES BY!!"
I am flattered and honored beyond words that Susan said this about me. I will never forget it. She, however, is Dolly Levi! In an early scene she states that one of her purposes in life is to step in when the good Lord needs help! She glides across the stage elegantly and effortlessly in beautiful costumes. Her dialogue is hysterically funny and delivered with impeccable timing. The entire cast is appealing and does an excellent job. The theatre is charming.
Now don't you let this parade pass you by! I guarantee an afternoon or evening of pure entertainment and enjoyment!
"Susan dedicates this show to her very own Dolly Levi...her mother, Linda Stovall! After years of loving care for my wonderful father during his illness...she has "rejoined the human race" in a way that has amazed and blessed everyone around her! "BEFORE THE PARADE PASSES BY!!"
I am flattered and honored beyond words that Susan said this about me. I will never forget it. She, however, is Dolly Levi! In an early scene she states that one of her purposes in life is to step in when the good Lord needs help! She glides across the stage elegantly and effortlessly in beautiful costumes. Her dialogue is hysterically funny and delivered with impeccable timing. The entire cast is appealing and does an excellent job. The theatre is charming.
Now don't you let this parade pass you by! I guarantee an afternoon or evening of pure entertainment and enjoyment!
Wednesday, May 18, 2011
"Could you do that just once more?"
I have been knocked off my throne as queen of the photo do-overs. Yes, for years I have been a leader in the art of asking my subjects to re-enact or re-pose missed photo ops. I always seemed to just barely miss the really good shots. (Just ask Jay.) But last night an event at Martin High School involving my dear son-in-law put me to shame.
To set the scene: It was the junior voice recital. Maddie was performing. Susan was in dress rehearsal for "Hello Dolly," therefore unable to be there. I walked in with Rob, and we discussed how nifty his video camera was...and that the cord had been lost...and that he was so glad he found it...and that the thing was now all charged up and ready to go.
Maddie was first. She was mesmerizing. About half way through I saw Rob reach for the nifty video camera which was on the chair next to him! Disaster had befallen. He had forgotten to video!
After most of the audience had left Rob fessed up to those of us still there what had happened. With a lot of bumbling around, (and my egging on) Rob asked Maddie if she would sing again and Jana Harville if she would accompany again! They agreed, and we had a perfect re-enactment, complete with as much applause as our small group could muster.
So I'm abdicating my throne. I don't think I'll ever be able to top Rob's do-over!
To set the scene: It was the junior voice recital. Maddie was performing. Susan was in dress rehearsal for "Hello Dolly," therefore unable to be there. I walked in with Rob, and we discussed how nifty his video camera was...and that the cord had been lost...and that he was so glad he found it...and that the thing was now all charged up and ready to go.
Maddie was first. She was mesmerizing. About half way through I saw Rob reach for the nifty video camera which was on the chair next to him! Disaster had befallen. He had forgotten to video!
After most of the audience had left Rob fessed up to those of us still there what had happened. With a lot of bumbling around, (and my egging on) Rob asked Maddie if she would sing again and Jana Harville if she would accompany again! They agreed, and we had a perfect re-enactment, complete with as much applause as our small group could muster.
So I'm abdicating my throne. I don't think I'll ever be able to top Rob's do-over!
Thursday, May 5, 2011
Let me tell you about my Mother
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| LaVerne McKinney Lynn |
She was only 15 when she married my Daddy. She did not finish high school, but you never would have thought that if you had known her. She was very intelligent, and required that my two brothers and I always use correct English grammar. She was beloved by many and taught a Sunday School class for several years.
Her parents lived on an honest-to-goodness farm near the tiny town of Osage, Texas. It was called the 3-R Ranch--Rocks, Rabbits, and Rattlesnakes!" No inside plumbing. Clothes made from feed sacks. Animals of every variety. A working windmill.
My mother loved my daddy like crazy and vice versa! There were never cross words spoken between them.
I have no idea how Mother knew all the things she knew. For instance, I remember her correcting me when I pronounced diphtheria "dip-theria." She instructed me that the pronunciation is "dif-theria." She was right, but how did she know that? She also taught me how to correctly place silverware in a table setting. Believe me, that didn't seem likely with her background.
I have no idea how Mother knew all the things she knew. For instance, I remember her correcting me when I pronounced diphtheria "dip-theria." She instructed me that the pronunciation is "dif-theria." She was right, but how did she know that? She also taught me how to correctly place silverware in a table setting. Believe me, that didn't seem likely with her background.
One day I sneezed extremely loudly. Mother said, "Would you have sneezed like that in church?" I then realized that I could sneeze quite quietly if I tried. She taught us to chew with our mouths closed. She did not allow us to use the word "fool" directed at another person. This one is most unusual...she did not allow us to accuse each other of or use the word "lying."
Six months after Jack and I married, Mother got sick. The problem turned out to be a benign but troublesome brain tumor. There was a surgery to remove it, but it grew back. The second surgery damaged her brain to the point that she was paralyzed on her right side and couldn't stand or speak or swallow for 3 years.
Mother had a spelling board that Daddy made for her. It had all the letters of the alphabet on it, and she could point to letters with her left hand (opening her hand at the end of a word) faster than we could read. The only specific thing I remember her spelling for me was when she found out we were expecting a baby (Susan.) She spelled, "Who ever heard of a grandbaby you can't sing to?"
Mother died right after she turned 50 years old. Susan was 9 months old at the time. I so miss not having been able to know her as an adult. I have now been blessed to live over half again as long as she did. I not only got to sing to my grandbabies, they now sing for me.
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She was an excellent seamstress. I remember that she made me a beautiful new dress to wear on my first date with Jack Stovall!
Six months after Jack and I married, Mother got sick. The problem turned out to be a benign but troublesome brain tumor. There was a surgery to remove it, but it grew back. The second surgery damaged her brain to the point that she was paralyzed on her right side and couldn't stand or speak or swallow for 3 years.
Mother had a spelling board that Daddy made for her. It had all the letters of the alphabet on it, and she could point to letters with her left hand (opening her hand at the end of a word) faster than we could read. The only specific thing I remember her spelling for me was when she found out we were expecting a baby (Susan.) She spelled, "Who ever heard of a grandbaby you can't sing to?"
Mother died right after she turned 50 years old. Susan was 9 months old at the time. I so miss not having been able to know her as an adult. I have now been blessed to live over half again as long as she did. I not only got to sing to my grandbabies, they now sing for me.
Friday, April 29, 2011
MAPQUEST, SCHMAPQUEST!
One of the competitions for Martin's one-act play progression was held at Waxahachie High School. Wanting to be the cool and independent Mimi, I looked up the route on Mapquest. Big mistake. I think I was within a mile or two of the school when my directions had me exit Hwy. 287 and go completely wrong. When I finally stopped and went in a little country store, I was about 4 miles from the school. This was o.k. for me--I was early enough that I made it in time to see the play. But...
My friend Silvia Monzon suffered the same fate. She ended up in Red Oak following her directions! The really bad part is that Silvia had the young thespians' lunch with her. (Silvia is amazing. She has a full time job and still does this kind of thing all the time!) So she and I did a lot of commiserating!
Now when I bought my Priius I got a built-in navigation system. I was excited until I tried to use it. My first hint of trouble came when I entered the "start" point, my home address. The thing told me that address did not exist! I persevered, and entered the address of Silverado when I was visiting for the first time. I had no earthly idea how to get to 8855 W. Valley Ranch Parkway, Irving. Off I went, feeling so confident. That lasted until I got to a point (nowhere close to Silverado) where it was instructing me to make a U turn, then another U. I was going in a circle--a very small one. I was an hour and a half late for my appointment.
In Jay's eulogy at Jack's funeral, he referred to the fact that Jack never used Google maps, a GPS, or even Mapsco. He used old-fashioned paper maps. He had dozens of them. But you know what? I don't remember him ever winding up in Red Oak! As Jay said, "I am pretty sure he could get anywhere he wanted to go."
My friend Silvia Monzon suffered the same fate. She ended up in Red Oak following her directions! The really bad part is that Silvia had the young thespians' lunch with her. (Silvia is amazing. She has a full time job and still does this kind of thing all the time!) So she and I did a lot of commiserating!
Now when I bought my Priius I got a built-in navigation system. I was excited until I tried to use it. My first hint of trouble came when I entered the "start" point, my home address. The thing told me that address did not exist! I persevered, and entered the address of Silverado when I was visiting for the first time. I had no earthly idea how to get to 8855 W. Valley Ranch Parkway, Irving. Off I went, feeling so confident. That lasted until I got to a point (nowhere close to Silverado) where it was instructing me to make a U turn, then another U. I was going in a circle--a very small one. I was an hour and a half late for my appointment.
In Jay's eulogy at Jack's funeral, he referred to the fact that Jack never used Google maps, a GPS, or even Mapsco. He used old-fashioned paper maps. He had dozens of them. But you know what? I don't remember him ever winding up in Red Oak! As Jay said, "I am pretty sure he could get anywhere he wanted to go."
Monday, April 25, 2011
A Few More New Things!
A few weeks ago I showed you here my redecorating efforts in my guest bedroom. Since the family was coming for Easter yesterday, I just had to get into high gear again and complete the project. (By the way, if that "here" above works and refers you to my earlier blog, I must say I am thrilled. I have only worked on being able to do that for an hour or so!)
So here's the new area....
I love the flower arrangement:
So here's the new area....
I love the flower arrangement:
And I just happened to think of this clock, which was at the office, but not in use. Jack found this clock and liked it. He had it repaired, and it works. Isn't it perfect?
As for the picture, I didn't look at any that did not feature an eagle. I love the scriptures about eagles. This one quotes Psalm 103: 1, 4-5. "Bless the Lord...Who crowns you with steadfast love and mercy, so that your strength is renewed like the eagle's."
Tuesday, April 19, 2011
My Personal Trainer!
Recently Susan talked to me about joining LA Fitness. She thought the recumbent bikes and elliptical machines would be good for me. I agreed, so I joined.
After a few days I got a call suggesting that I come in for a personal fitness evaluation. I'm sure you can imagine that I was not too excited about that, but I wanted to get my money's worth, so I went.
Here is a picture of my personal consultant.
Well, it IS his picture, but it was taken a few years ago when he was 50 years old. He was Mr. U.S.A. in 1981. He also has pictures with Arnold Schwarzenegger and Chuck Norris. His name is Jay Hall, and I was so pleased when I was assigned a counselor nearer my age than the typical LA Fitness employee. He asked me not to reveal his current age, but he is a "leetle" older than I. And in a lot better shape!
So...Jay very graciously wanted to show me how to do crunches and lift weights and who knows what else! I told him I would be doing good to use the elliptical and recumbent, but that I would let him know when I was ready to progress! The evaluation certainly showed that progress is needed!
After a few days I got a call suggesting that I come in for a personal fitness evaluation. I'm sure you can imagine that I was not too excited about that, but I wanted to get my money's worth, so I went.
Here is a picture of my personal consultant.
Well, it IS his picture, but it was taken a few years ago when he was 50 years old. He was Mr. U.S.A. in 1981. He also has pictures with Arnold Schwarzenegger and Chuck Norris. His name is Jay Hall, and I was so pleased when I was assigned a counselor nearer my age than the typical LA Fitness employee. He asked me not to reveal his current age, but he is a "leetle" older than I. And in a lot better shape!
So...Jay very graciously wanted to show me how to do crunches and lift weights and who knows what else! I told him I would be doing good to use the elliptical and recumbent, but that I would let him know when I was ready to progress! The evaluation certainly showed that progress is needed!
Monday, April 11, 2011
The Way to Treat An Alzheimer's Patient!
The verse from Ephesians that I used in my last post first came to me right after leaving Jack at Silverado on November 21, 2008. The part of it that is so amazing to me is that it says God is able to do more than we ask or even imagine. Yesterday I finally asked myself, "Just what did I ask of God on that day in November?" The answer: only two things--that Jack be treated well and that they not decide they couldn't keep him. That's it.
So...how did God answer my meager prayer? Here are some of the ways.
1. They engaged Jack. Rachael, Kisha, and Raul took him along on errands almost every day.
2. They honored Jack, the construction expert, by asking his opinion and making him feel that it was important.
3. They involved Jack by asking him to sit in on their meetings. It was amazing! I would arrive,and there they would be around the dining table--all the management personnel--and Jack! Later he would invite himself to any meeting he saw taking place. Even other families accepted Jack's presence at their conferences!
4. They (especially Mary Poole, R.N.) were more intuitive about his physical needs than I was able to be. She could tell when his behavior indicated he was suffering pain--from a hernia, for example. And she was able to smoothly get the problem corrected. Mary also knew and knows more about Alzheimer's Disease than anyone else I have run across in all these years.
5. Silverado provided great long halls where Jack was able to walk without limitations--day or night. (There was only about one week of his life that he was bedridden.)
6. I'm not exaggerating when I say that EVERYONE at Silverado LOVED Jack. This should really be No. 1! This was not a passive love. This was an action-filled love. And it was not just the caregivers. It was also the families of the other residents.
My concern that Jack's behavior would cause Silverado to send him elsewhere is almost laughable. Mary was kind enough to say several times to me (in her beautiful Scottish brogue) that Jack was "a walk in the park" to care for. I really believe that on his worst day they probably would have fought anybody who tried to take him away!
So, do you think I was a little faithless in my request of an almighty God on that day in 2008? I KNOW I was. But His goodness does not depend on me, for which I could not be more thankful.
I have realized that writing these thoughts on this blog is therapy for me. I thank you if you have hung in and read it. Feel free to send me a bill!
So...how did God answer my meager prayer? Here are some of the ways.
1. They engaged Jack. Rachael, Kisha, and Raul took him along on errands almost every day.
2. They honored Jack, the construction expert, by asking his opinion and making him feel that it was important.
3. They involved Jack by asking him to sit in on their meetings. It was amazing! I would arrive,and there they would be around the dining table--all the management personnel--and Jack! Later he would invite himself to any meeting he saw taking place. Even other families accepted Jack's presence at their conferences!
4. They (especially Mary Poole, R.N.) were more intuitive about his physical needs than I was able to be. She could tell when his behavior indicated he was suffering pain--from a hernia, for example. And she was able to smoothly get the problem corrected. Mary also knew and knows more about Alzheimer's Disease than anyone else I have run across in all these years.
5. Silverado provided great long halls where Jack was able to walk without limitations--day or night. (There was only about one week of his life that he was bedridden.)
6. I'm not exaggerating when I say that EVERYONE at Silverado LOVED Jack. This should really be No. 1! This was not a passive love. This was an action-filled love. And it was not just the caregivers. It was also the families of the other residents.
My concern that Jack's behavior would cause Silverado to send him elsewhere is almost laughable. Mary was kind enough to say several times to me (in her beautiful Scottish brogue) that Jack was "a walk in the park" to care for. I really believe that on his worst day they probably would have fought anybody who tried to take him away!
So, do you think I was a little faithless in my request of an almighty God on that day in 2008? I KNOW I was. But His goodness does not depend on me, for which I could not be more thankful.
I have realized that writing these thoughts on this blog is therapy for me. I thank you if you have hung in and read it. Feel free to send me a bill!
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