The election is over. The people have spoken. The Sunday after the election, churches across America prayed for the President-elect and his family and he went to the gym.
NIIIIIIIIIIIIICE.
It has been quite the experience to live through. Here in the USA they learn everything they never wanted to know about their candidates. In Canada on Labour Day 2008 the election was called and six weeks later, it was done, over, all tied up, everyone back to work.
What a mess this country, this world is in now. How did it come off the tracks so badly?
Greed, yes! Pride, yes! Our parents and grandparents were 100% correct. Stay away from credit. That includes government. Stay on a budget.
Did we listen. No. Now no one can tell us the future. I can, here comes the TaxMan.
Our hope is in God alone, He is all knowing, all sufficient, everlasting, pure love, never changing,
and one amazing friend.
Praise God from whom all blessings flow,
Grandma
Monday, November 10, 2008
Sunday, September 21, 2008
End of Summer 2008
I hardly know how to begin this blog today. So much has happened. I will start with the most recent, more profound in the life of our Ya-Ya.
She was baptized this morning at church. It was a lovely church service, powerful message and praise and worship. Ya-Ya's former youth leader Stephanie and her family joined us at church. They no longer go to our church. It was so kind of them to attend, as we have no family here to be a witness and encouragement to Ya-Ya.
Baptism here in the south is so different. It is held outside. The "tank" is a galvanized feeding trough! It has taken me so long to get use to this. I had pressed Ya-Ya before we moved South to be baptized at BAC or at Jake's church. But she apparently was not ready.
Two weeks ago on her own, she approached the pastor and asked to be baptized today. She had recommited her life to Jesus over a year ago at a youth retreat in Panama City Florida, on the beach, it was a beautiful starry night after an evening of praise and worship along the sea shore.
There had to be 10 people baptized today. One family of four, reminded me of our baptism day, a couple siblings, an older lady who was in a car accident yesterday and told our pastor she wanted to be baptized today, no matter her injuries.
On Labour Day weekend we went to Pigeon Forge TN and rented a log cabin for the weekend. We had such a relaxing and glorious time. We were 10 miles away from the hustle and bustle of Pigeon Forge and DollyWood, but we did visit.
We celebrated Larry's 60th birthday in August. His sister Connie, brother in law Dave and their two grandchildren were able to come and visit for four days. Larry really enjoyed himself at Chaffin's Barn Dinner Theatre for our adult celebration. We took the little girls to Adventure Science Center and then drove and drove south of Nashville to find Miley Cyrus' family home.
We look forward now to Fall. Ya-Ya is busy with Friday night football and Band competitions most Saturday's. Yesterday they took top honours in their division at the first competition for this year.
I must continue be thankful for the positives.
Grandma
She was baptized this morning at church. It was a lovely church service, powerful message and praise and worship. Ya-Ya's former youth leader Stephanie and her family joined us at church. They no longer go to our church. It was so kind of them to attend, as we have no family here to be a witness and encouragement to Ya-Ya.
Baptism here in the south is so different. It is held outside. The "tank" is a galvanized feeding trough! It has taken me so long to get use to this. I had pressed Ya-Ya before we moved South to be baptized at BAC or at Jake's church. But she apparently was not ready.
Two weeks ago on her own, she approached the pastor and asked to be baptized today. She had recommited her life to Jesus over a year ago at a youth retreat in Panama City Florida, on the beach, it was a beautiful starry night after an evening of praise and worship along the sea shore.
There had to be 10 people baptized today. One family of four, reminded me of our baptism day, a couple siblings, an older lady who was in a car accident yesterday and told our pastor she wanted to be baptized today, no matter her injuries.
On Labour Day weekend we went to Pigeon Forge TN and rented a log cabin for the weekend. We had such a relaxing and glorious time. We were 10 miles away from the hustle and bustle of Pigeon Forge and DollyWood, but we did visit.
We celebrated Larry's 60th birthday in August. His sister Connie, brother in law Dave and their two grandchildren were able to come and visit for four days. Larry really enjoyed himself at Chaffin's Barn Dinner Theatre for our adult celebration. We took the little girls to Adventure Science Center and then drove and drove south of Nashville to find Miley Cyrus' family home.
We look forward now to Fall. Ya-Ya is busy with Friday night football and Band competitions most Saturday's. Yesterday they took top honours in their division at the first competition for this year.
I must continue be thankful for the positives.
Grandma
Monday, August 11, 2008
Back to School
First day for Cecelia to go back to school. She starts her Junior Year this morning. She has had a good (read busy) summer. She spent a week at Driver's Ed, then 6 weeks at Camp Mini Yo We in the Discovery Program, leaders in training and then another week at Band day camp. Whew!
She will have a challenging year with two maths, USA History, Chemistry, Marketing (Rich will be happy about that), English and of course Band each term.
We are so pleased about Band this year. Steve, one of the parents has been elected President of Band Boosters. He has really stepped up the organization, he has organized many ambitious parents to help him out. All of this was much to our surprise. Steve is well, highly energetic, and he would totally agree, a goof ball! So when we saw how he stepped up the organization of the band parents we were shocked but so grateful.
Last night, Larry and I drove into Bell's Bend. The Cumberland River makes a huge bend, near downtown Nashville. This U shaped bend separates the land inbetween from the rest of the City. A developer has bought up lots of land and wants to put a bridge over the river there and put in office towers, condos, shopping. Lots are objecting to it. We set out to find this place. We finally did. And sure enough there are rolling hills, one road in and out of the Bend. Very sparsely populated, and the road does go right down into the river at the end of the Bend just like all the signs read.
It is peaceful there. I think they should leave it untouched. As Larry always says "They aren't making anymore land". It would be a shame to pave it all over. Look at me, I didn't even know I was a tree hugger.
Soon we will have some Canadian snowbirds visiting us. LA from Burlington this coming weekend. She enjoys history so we will take her to Franklin and to Carnton Plantation. The following week Connie and Dave. They will be here to celebrate Larry's 60th and attend a Friday Night Lights Football Home game. In September we will have a visit from Rich and Christine and in October Barb and Dean and probably Bill and Mary and maybe Richard and Diane. Love it!! Our boys are even seriously considering coming around Christmas time! Yahoo!!
Love ya'll
Grandma
She will have a challenging year with two maths, USA History, Chemistry, Marketing (Rich will be happy about that), English and of course Band each term.
We are so pleased about Band this year. Steve, one of the parents has been elected President of Band Boosters. He has really stepped up the organization, he has organized many ambitious parents to help him out. All of this was much to our surprise. Steve is well, highly energetic, and he would totally agree, a goof ball! So when we saw how he stepped up the organization of the band parents we were shocked but so grateful.
Last night, Larry and I drove into Bell's Bend. The Cumberland River makes a huge bend, near downtown Nashville. This U shaped bend separates the land inbetween from the rest of the City. A developer has bought up lots of land and wants to put a bridge over the river there and put in office towers, condos, shopping. Lots are objecting to it. We set out to find this place. We finally did. And sure enough there are rolling hills, one road in and out of the Bend. Very sparsely populated, and the road does go right down into the river at the end of the Bend just like all the signs read.
It is peaceful there. I think they should leave it untouched. As Larry always says "They aren't making anymore land". It would be a shame to pave it all over. Look at me, I didn't even know I was a tree hugger.
Soon we will have some Canadian snowbirds visiting us. LA from Burlington this coming weekend. She enjoys history so we will take her to Franklin and to Carnton Plantation. The following week Connie and Dave. They will be here to celebrate Larry's 60th and attend a Friday Night Lights Football Home game. In September we will have a visit from Rich and Christine and in October Barb and Dean and probably Bill and Mary and maybe Richard and Diane. Love it!! Our boys are even seriously considering coming around Christmas time! Yahoo!!
Love ya'll
Grandma
Friday, July 11, 2008
Summer 2008
It was two years ago on July 1 that we moved from Canada to our home here in Tennessee!! Wow that time has flown by.
On July 1 this year we were back in Canada child sitting, they are not babies any more, Jake and Heather's 4. We kept them busy, they kept us on our toes. We visited Niagara on the Lake and got a Christmas ornament with Mercy's name on it and had lunch and a play in the Park.
We visited the July 1st fire works down at The Falls, by driving back and forth along the river, no place to park. The 3 older kids and grandpa went go carting and Daisy and I played mini golf (where is that 16th hole Daisy!). We spent an amazing day at Marineland - kids went on lots of rides; we all got splashed by killer whales and 5 of us petted Belugha whales. We went to multiple soccer games and practices (where did your team go Clara?).
We visited the Butterfly conservatory. There sure were a lot more butterflies there than when we visited years ago. I was disgusted with the little boy who picked up an injured butterfly and finished him off by crushing him in his hands. His parents nor he could understand me when I asked him to stop.
While in Ontario we attended our friend Bill's retirement party. There we visited with friends and got caught up on many lives. We also visited our friend Richard in Oshawa who was recovering from surgery in the hospital.
Sadly Grandpa had to fly back home to work, but happily I went up to Orillia to visit with Rich and Christine and 2 grand kids. Here we played monopoly, swam in their pool, went for long walks along lake Couchiching (spelling ?), enjoyed orchestra on the lake and visited Stephen Leacock's home on Brewery Bay. It is a lovely old home, with many rooms with dark wood tongue in groove panelling. Most rooms are lined with books. In the basement there was a wine cellar of his family line of wine and a huge pool table we figured 12 x 6!!
We were caught in this home during a pretty descent thunder storm, sort of added to the ambiance.
We brought Cecelia out of camp for a dinner at Webber's, soccer games and her favourite Mint Chip ice cream. Then a quick drive back into the bush for 9 PM.
Grandpa sure enjoyed his time, doing jobs around Jake's house and spending time with the grand kids. He enjoyed getting to see each child's personality and spending one on one time with Wilson talking about Wilson's school and his hopes for a career. I gave the girls my "hero" talk, every situation needs a hero - we all need to step up at times, and give in for others to have their way. Who will be a hero today in your family?
I enjoyed playing monopoly with Haley at Rich's. She explained the game to me as if I hadn't ever played it - she has an amazing concept of the game for a 7 year old. She and I also worked on her learning the books of the New Testament.
I made my way home through Terminal One out of Toronto on Air Canada Jazz. I had to sit in the very back row of the plane. I thought I booked closer to the front - I would have never chosen to sit there, right beside the 'lavatory'! Oh well, it was fine. Glad to be home, even though I have a pretty bad cold - yuck.
I continue to think of Tennessee as home now and am trying to talk the kids into moving here, with no luck. It was so cute to hear Haley talk in her southern drawl to me!! So she would fit right in. I do appreciate this beautiful State. Wow, I have come a LONG ways.
Love to ya'll
babs
On July 1 this year we were back in Canada child sitting, they are not babies any more, Jake and Heather's 4. We kept them busy, they kept us on our toes. We visited Niagara on the Lake and got a Christmas ornament with Mercy's name on it and had lunch and a play in the Park.
We visited the July 1st fire works down at The Falls, by driving back and forth along the river, no place to park. The 3 older kids and grandpa went go carting and Daisy and I played mini golf (where is that 16th hole Daisy!). We spent an amazing day at Marineland - kids went on lots of rides; we all got splashed by killer whales and 5 of us petted Belugha whales. We went to multiple soccer games and practices (where did your team go Clara?).
We visited the Butterfly conservatory. There sure were a lot more butterflies there than when we visited years ago. I was disgusted with the little boy who picked up an injured butterfly and finished him off by crushing him in his hands. His parents nor he could understand me when I asked him to stop.
While in Ontario we attended our friend Bill's retirement party. There we visited with friends and got caught up on many lives. We also visited our friend Richard in Oshawa who was recovering from surgery in the hospital.
Sadly Grandpa had to fly back home to work, but happily I went up to Orillia to visit with Rich and Christine and 2 grand kids. Here we played monopoly, swam in their pool, went for long walks along lake Couchiching (spelling ?), enjoyed orchestra on the lake and visited Stephen Leacock's home on Brewery Bay. It is a lovely old home, with many rooms with dark wood tongue in groove panelling. Most rooms are lined with books. In the basement there was a wine cellar of his family line of wine and a huge pool table we figured 12 x 6!!
We were caught in this home during a pretty descent thunder storm, sort of added to the ambiance.
We brought Cecelia out of camp for a dinner at Webber's, soccer games and her favourite Mint Chip ice cream. Then a quick drive back into the bush for 9 PM.
Grandpa sure enjoyed his time, doing jobs around Jake's house and spending time with the grand kids. He enjoyed getting to see each child's personality and spending one on one time with Wilson talking about Wilson's school and his hopes for a career. I gave the girls my "hero" talk, every situation needs a hero - we all need to step up at times, and give in for others to have their way. Who will be a hero today in your family?
I enjoyed playing monopoly with Haley at Rich's. She explained the game to me as if I hadn't ever played it - she has an amazing concept of the game for a 7 year old. She and I also worked on her learning the books of the New Testament.
I made my way home through Terminal One out of Toronto on Air Canada Jazz. I had to sit in the very back row of the plane. I thought I booked closer to the front - I would have never chosen to sit there, right beside the 'lavatory'! Oh well, it was fine. Glad to be home, even though I have a pretty bad cold - yuck.
I continue to think of Tennessee as home now and am trying to talk the kids into moving here, with no luck. It was so cute to hear Haley talk in her southern drawl to me!! So she would fit right in. I do appreciate this beautiful State. Wow, I have come a LONG ways.
Love to ya'll
babs
Saturday, May 31, 2008
Memorial Day USA 2008
On Friday night we went to see Indiana Jones, good, but I don't think we enjoyed it quite as much as the other Indiana's.
On Saturday afternoon we visited Cornerstone Church in Madison. This is a mega church where our little congregation was planted from. On this Memorial Day weekend and again on the Fourth of July they hold very patriotic services. A huge, gigantic Stars and Stripes hung over the 300 voice choir. Marines repel from the ceiling. Each Service is recognized for their sacrifices for freedom. A marine who just two days earlier returned from Iraq led them all in the Pledge of Allegiance. To top it off Col. Oliver North gave the main "sermon". He gave stories from his work with Fox News (yeah Fox News) in Iraq and Afghanistan. He told of one young man(sorry I forget his rank) that led his squad in Bible study every day in Iraq. He first had them hurry double time to get their daily chores completed and they gathered and this young man taught the Bible study and led them all in prayer.
After Col. North was home for a few short days, he received a call from this young man's father asking him if he would speak at this son's funeral, he had been killed in Iraq, just a day or two after Col. North had returned home. Col. North was visibly moved just retelling of this young Hero's life, courage and faith.
It was a very beautiful service. Patriotic and respectful, not gushy nor glamorizing of war. Col. North himself said he would never to do that. WAR IS NOT PEACE.
On Monday we drove down along the Natchez Trace. This is a well maintained parkway that runs 444 miles south of Nashville to Natchez Mississippi. It was first a trail used by American Natives then used by early settlers for trade and commerce before they began to use the Mississippi and Tennessee rivers. Daniel Boone often walked along this trail. At multiple places you can park the car and walk along this original trail. We got out and did this for a short while, until I wondered if there were bears around there, after that my hiking day was done. Off to lunch.
We stopped at The Loveless Cafe. It is right near the beginning of the Natchez Trace in south Nashville. It is famous with locals and tourists. We have seen Carol Fay, The Biscuit Lady, from the Loveless on Martha Stewart's show. Well, she was there, at the front desk and came into our dining area and after speaking to her she stopped and visited with us.
After lunch there was a gulley washer of a rain storm. Larry got soaked running for car. But we had a most memorial weekend.
Love to all,
Grandma
On Saturday afternoon we visited Cornerstone Church in Madison. This is a mega church where our little congregation was planted from. On this Memorial Day weekend and again on the Fourth of July they hold very patriotic services. A huge, gigantic Stars and Stripes hung over the 300 voice choir. Marines repel from the ceiling. Each Service is recognized for their sacrifices for freedom. A marine who just two days earlier returned from Iraq led them all in the Pledge of Allegiance. To top it off Col. Oliver North gave the main "sermon". He gave stories from his work with Fox News (yeah Fox News) in Iraq and Afghanistan. He told of one young man(sorry I forget his rank) that led his squad in Bible study every day in Iraq. He first had them hurry double time to get their daily chores completed and they gathered and this young man taught the Bible study and led them all in prayer.
After Col. North was home for a few short days, he received a call from this young man's father asking him if he would speak at this son's funeral, he had been killed in Iraq, just a day or two after Col. North had returned home. Col. North was visibly moved just retelling of this young Hero's life, courage and faith.
It was a very beautiful service. Patriotic and respectful, not gushy nor glamorizing of war. Col. North himself said he would never to do that. WAR IS NOT PEACE.
On Monday we drove down along the Natchez Trace. This is a well maintained parkway that runs 444 miles south of Nashville to Natchez Mississippi. It was first a trail used by American Natives then used by early settlers for trade and commerce before they began to use the Mississippi and Tennessee rivers. Daniel Boone often walked along this trail. At multiple places you can park the car and walk along this original trail. We got out and did this for a short while, until I wondered if there were bears around there, after that my hiking day was done. Off to lunch.
We stopped at The Loveless Cafe. It is right near the beginning of the Natchez Trace in south Nashville. It is famous with locals and tourists. We have seen Carol Fay, The Biscuit Lady, from the Loveless on Martha Stewart's show. Well, she was there, at the front desk and came into our dining area and after speaking to her she stopped and visited with us.
After lunch there was a gulley washer of a rain storm. Larry got soaked running for car. But we had a most memorial weekend.
Love to all,
Grandma
Monday, May 19, 2008
Cousins Reunion 2008
Just home from my weekend in southwestern Ontario. I spent the weekend with the 3 other cousins that I would hang out with during the summers as we were growing up.
We stayed at The Vintage Goose:The O'Heron House in K'ville. As a young girl I often visited in this home with the twins that lived there. They sold the house to a local group of investors who set it up as a B and B. This weekend we stayed up stairs in "Grandpa Pickards". Mr. Pickard was Pauline O'Heron's father and he and his wife lived in the upstairs of this huge Victorian Home.
I told the young ladies who run the B and B daily, one of my stories of staying there as a child. Just inside the front door is (was) a coat closet, situated under the front stairs. Just before one weekend that I stayed there my parents had bought me a brand new coat, a rarity as I had lovely hand me downs from my cousin Gail. My brand new blue wool coat with the velvet collar was hanging in that aforementioned front hall closet. On the Sunday morning as I was getting the new coat out of the closet to go to church we noticed that their dog had chewed mouthfuls off the bottom of the coat. I still wore it to church. I was devastated. I was in Junior Choir that morning. I remember sitting in the front row, crying all during the service. I also remember not one person ever asked me why I had cried so much in church. I never saw my beautiful coat again. I don't remember what replaced it.
That closet has its door and the back wall removed. There is now a small check in counter built in front and the closet is like the front office area.
I told the young woman there as I checked in that the twins had their huge bedroom over the garage when I stayed there.
It is a lovely place, updated with modern conveniences like hot tubs or showers in each room plus the garage area is now a Spa. The food is delicious and the presentation is lovely.
The majority of our weekend was spent with our Aunt Marg. She is the last living sister of our mothers' family. There were 9 girls and 2 boys in this family. Another cousin still owns the family home. He came and opened it and let us walk around. It was a wonderful morning. With each of us giving little vignettes of memories. Our Aunt Marg told stories from her generation. The house was built in the 1870's. It was a one floor home. After 7 children our grandfather decided to have the roof raised and built an upstairs addition.
Aunt Marg was able to tell us where each of mothers' bedrooms were. We heard from our cousin about the rain barrel system in the upstairs bathroom. We heard about the time the house went electric, the cost of having electricity and fixtures installed. We heard about the time lightning came through the old ringer phone on the wall in the kitchen. We talked about the meals and snacks grandma made. Her fried chicken, freshly killed by grandpa or an uncle earlier that day.
One of my big memories is going out to the hen house with grandpa. Watching him pick up a plump bird, chop its head off on an old stump and the chicken would end up as grandma's yummy fried chicken later that day. One cousin reminded us of vanilla ice cream and maple syrup for dessert.
Our aunt wrote beautiful memories for us to read. One I love was of the lining of an old coat of an older sister being turned into a beautiful dress for a younger sister. She received many compliments on this gorgeous dress.
We heard stories of Julia, our grandfather's mother who wanted to run off with a skedaddler (an American Civil War 'resister'). She returned home and eventually married our great grandfather.
We heard of hard work and happy times. We heard of the loss twin baby boys years after my mother and her twin were born.
Many pieces to the puzzle of the family relationships fell in place for me. I fell back in love with this family of origin. They became real, not perfect, a blessing.
It was cool to hear stories of my 3 cousins visiting our home when we were kids. How they remembered eating toast with maple butter. How they remembered swimming near the docks in K'ville and two us holding up the youngest to keep her from drowning ( I didn't remember that part), they remembered going to the Roxy with me on Saturday afternoons and some movies we saw there. We remembered playing with grandpa and combing his hair. We remembered grandma fixing hems of dresses after we stood at the kitchen table, still very still.
Our cousin is going to have to "raise" the house. The foundation is cracking, other issues. That will be sad day for many but the memories and stories will remain. It was a magical time to grow up. As children we were unaware of the struggles, we were unaware of any pain. We knew when we went out to the farm there would always be some one to play with. I can remember telling by the cars in the driveway who would be there and what fun we would have.
Other places we visited and ate: Jack's Restaurant in downtown K'ville, I had Lake Erie perch, wonderful. We all went to Colasanti's Farm - they have the Broasted Chicken recipe from the old Hilltop - was just as delicious and yummy. Joan and I went to Annabelle's, across from the Catholic church. Lovely tea room that now serves dinner. Once again beautiful old home that has been restored with tremendous food. It is owned and operated by a local couple - I went to high school with their older sibs.
Thanks Joan, Ann and Becky and Aunt Marg and Gordon for a Memorial Weekend! Thank you Don(ald) for patiently driving me to and from the airport, I sincerely appreciate your kindness!
Joan and I also visited with our Erna. We were just coming for coffee but she had baked Shepherd's Pie for us at 9 AM. We had a short but great visit. She is doing well and was thrilled to spend even some time with us. We also visited Greenhill and walked among the graves of many no longer here but richly remain in our thoughts.
On Friday as I was leaving for the airport I felt somewhat guilty for leaving Larry and Ya-Ya, don't mothers always have misplaced guilt. But it was so worth my time. Larry was totally supportive.
If I could have time in a bottle, I would fill it with memories of ya'll!
babs
We stayed at The Vintage Goose:The O'Heron House in K'ville. As a young girl I often visited in this home with the twins that lived there. They sold the house to a local group of investors who set it up as a B and B. This weekend we stayed up stairs in "Grandpa Pickards". Mr. Pickard was Pauline O'Heron's father and he and his wife lived in the upstairs of this huge Victorian Home.
I told the young ladies who run the B and B daily, one of my stories of staying there as a child. Just inside the front door is (was) a coat closet, situated under the front stairs. Just before one weekend that I stayed there my parents had bought me a brand new coat, a rarity as I had lovely hand me downs from my cousin Gail. My brand new blue wool coat with the velvet collar was hanging in that aforementioned front hall closet. On the Sunday morning as I was getting the new coat out of the closet to go to church we noticed that their dog had chewed mouthfuls off the bottom of the coat. I still wore it to church. I was devastated. I was in Junior Choir that morning. I remember sitting in the front row, crying all during the service. I also remember not one person ever asked me why I had cried so much in church. I never saw my beautiful coat again. I don't remember what replaced it.
That closet has its door and the back wall removed. There is now a small check in counter built in front and the closet is like the front office area.
I told the young woman there as I checked in that the twins had their huge bedroom over the garage when I stayed there.
It is a lovely place, updated with modern conveniences like hot tubs or showers in each room plus the garage area is now a Spa. The food is delicious and the presentation is lovely.
The majority of our weekend was spent with our Aunt Marg. She is the last living sister of our mothers' family. There were 9 girls and 2 boys in this family. Another cousin still owns the family home. He came and opened it and let us walk around. It was a wonderful morning. With each of us giving little vignettes of memories. Our Aunt Marg told stories from her generation. The house was built in the 1870's. It was a one floor home. After 7 children our grandfather decided to have the roof raised and built an upstairs addition.
Aunt Marg was able to tell us where each of mothers' bedrooms were. We heard from our cousin about the rain barrel system in the upstairs bathroom. We heard about the time the house went electric, the cost of having electricity and fixtures installed. We heard about the time lightning came through the old ringer phone on the wall in the kitchen. We talked about the meals and snacks grandma made. Her fried chicken, freshly killed by grandpa or an uncle earlier that day.
One of my big memories is going out to the hen house with grandpa. Watching him pick up a plump bird, chop its head off on an old stump and the chicken would end up as grandma's yummy fried chicken later that day. One cousin reminded us of vanilla ice cream and maple syrup for dessert.
Our aunt wrote beautiful memories for us to read. One I love was of the lining of an old coat of an older sister being turned into a beautiful dress for a younger sister. She received many compliments on this gorgeous dress.
We heard stories of Julia, our grandfather's mother who wanted to run off with a skedaddler (an American Civil War 'resister'). She returned home and eventually married our great grandfather.
We heard of hard work and happy times. We heard of the loss twin baby boys years after my mother and her twin were born.
Many pieces to the puzzle of the family relationships fell in place for me. I fell back in love with this family of origin. They became real, not perfect, a blessing.
It was cool to hear stories of my 3 cousins visiting our home when we were kids. How they remembered eating toast with maple butter. How they remembered swimming near the docks in K'ville and two us holding up the youngest to keep her from drowning ( I didn't remember that part), they remembered going to the Roxy with me on Saturday afternoons and some movies we saw there. We remembered playing with grandpa and combing his hair. We remembered grandma fixing hems of dresses after we stood at the kitchen table, still very still.
Our cousin is going to have to "raise" the house. The foundation is cracking, other issues. That will be sad day for many but the memories and stories will remain. It was a magical time to grow up. As children we were unaware of the struggles, we were unaware of any pain. We knew when we went out to the farm there would always be some one to play with. I can remember telling by the cars in the driveway who would be there and what fun we would have.
Other places we visited and ate: Jack's Restaurant in downtown K'ville, I had Lake Erie perch, wonderful. We all went to Colasanti's Farm - they have the Broasted Chicken recipe from the old Hilltop - was just as delicious and yummy. Joan and I went to Annabelle's, across from the Catholic church. Lovely tea room that now serves dinner. Once again beautiful old home that has been restored with tremendous food. It is owned and operated by a local couple - I went to high school with their older sibs.
Thanks Joan, Ann and Becky and Aunt Marg and Gordon for a Memorial Weekend! Thank you Don(ald) for patiently driving me to and from the airport, I sincerely appreciate your kindness!
Joan and I also visited with our Erna. We were just coming for coffee but she had baked Shepherd's Pie for us at 9 AM. We had a short but great visit. She is doing well and was thrilled to spend even some time with us. We also visited Greenhill and walked among the graves of many no longer here but richly remain in our thoughts.
On Friday as I was leaving for the airport I felt somewhat guilty for leaving Larry and Ya-Ya, don't mothers always have misplaced guilt. But it was so worth my time. Larry was totally supportive.
If I could have time in a bottle, I would fill it with memories of ya'll!
babs
Friday, April 11, 2008
April 11, 2008
What it can't be! How did I turn up 60 today. That sounds old. Why don't I feel old - except for a couple health issues that I'm working on.
I wonder about the next couple decades of my life. What plans does God have? I want to be challenged to do my best for Him. Please don't sit me on a shelf.
I appreciated the fireworks He provided today. These Southern storms can be annoying but the one today I took as celebration.
To my kids and grandkids. Live your life for others. Live your life full speed ahead.
Regrets: Now this sounds like a song "Regrets, I have a few" - biggest being - I wish I had known Jesus as my personal Saviour earlier in my life. I knew about Him, but I didn't commit my life to Him, until our boys were teenagers. Praise God, He protected them and guided their every path. But I missed out on doing important things like daily devotions with them, etc. I would know them more deeply if I had.
Can't believe I never prayed for them until they were teenagers unless they were sick or hurt.
It humbles me God's great and loving care.
Thanks for life and love!
Barbara
I wonder about the next couple decades of my life. What plans does God have? I want to be challenged to do my best for Him. Please don't sit me on a shelf.
I appreciated the fireworks He provided today. These Southern storms can be annoying but the one today I took as celebration.
To my kids and grandkids. Live your life for others. Live your life full speed ahead.
Regrets: Now this sounds like a song "Regrets, I have a few" - biggest being - I wish I had known Jesus as my personal Saviour earlier in my life. I knew about Him, but I didn't commit my life to Him, until our boys were teenagers. Praise God, He protected them and guided their every path. But I missed out on doing important things like daily devotions with them, etc. I would know them more deeply if I had.
Can't believe I never prayed for them until they were teenagers unless they were sick or hurt.
It humbles me God's great and loving care.
Thanks for life and love!
Barbara
Tuesday, April 1, 2008
Spring Break 2008
No one is playing scrabble this afternoon on Facebook, I can't get into understanding the Mousetrap game, so I deleted that so I thought I would fill you in on our Spring Break.
It was great to see our friends in Burlington. The Andrews are so generous to have us over and invite others to join in. This was the first we'd see our friend Mabel since her surgery. We were pleased to see her progress. She continues her positive attitude.
Friends Al and Jan had a few of us over for dinner also. It was fun to be with Huntley partners again. I treasure those days so much now.
It was good for me to be in Ya-Ya's interview for Camp. I had grown quite hesitant about her serving there this summer. But during the interview I was given peace about the leadership and the care that she will be given there. I pray the Spirt of Christ falls deeply on her this summer.
We visited two casinos with our pastor sons and their families. Sounds funny. We had lunch in each casino. I especially like the ambience of the one in Orillia. If you have to be stupid and be taxed that would be a lovely place to blow your hard earned money.
I am in a weird mood and mode today sorry. God bless you.
bab
It was great to see our friends in Burlington. The Andrews are so generous to have us over and invite others to join in. This was the first we'd see our friend Mabel since her surgery. We were pleased to see her progress. She continues her positive attitude.
Friends Al and Jan had a few of us over for dinner also. It was fun to be with Huntley partners again. I treasure those days so much now.
It was good for me to be in Ya-Ya's interview for Camp. I had grown quite hesitant about her serving there this summer. But during the interview I was given peace about the leadership and the care that she will be given there. I pray the Spirt of Christ falls deeply on her this summer.
We visited two casinos with our pastor sons and their families. Sounds funny. We had lunch in each casino. I especially like the ambience of the one in Orillia. If you have to be stupid and be taxed that would be a lovely place to blow your hard earned money.
I am in a weird mood and mode today sorry. God bless you.
bab
Thursday, March 13, 2008
March Break 2008
Jake and Heather and kids came this year for their March Break. The weather was wacky, snow piled up to 1/2 inch on Saturday. By Thursday afternoon it was 71 F!
We took the kids back to the Adventure Science Center and the Nashville Zoo. Two places they have been before and enjoy. We did quite a bit of shopping. Wilson is earning his own money now delivering newspapers so he purchased alot of new clothes for himself. I picked out a cotton shirt he actually liked.
We took them to the Opry. Being a musical family they all enjoyed this experience. They appreciated the different styles and commitment to music. We took them to a Predators game. They appreciated "the show" that is put on there, a fast paced and entertaining evening.
We took them to the Belle Meade Plantation. Excellent tour by a well educated "tour guide". We took them to The Cheesecake Factory for lunch, huge success followed by a quick side trip to find Vince Gill and Amy Grants home in Belle Meade, thanks to Jake's excellent map skills.
It was sad to see them leave. Dad and I so appreciate the effort, time and expense that many of you have made to visit us here. You have accepted our move away as a positive. We are thankful.
Love to all,
bab
We took the kids back to the Adventure Science Center and the Nashville Zoo. Two places they have been before and enjoy. We did quite a bit of shopping. Wilson is earning his own money now delivering newspapers so he purchased alot of new clothes for himself. I picked out a cotton shirt he actually liked.
We took them to the Opry. Being a musical family they all enjoyed this experience. They appreciated the different styles and commitment to music. We took them to a Predators game. They appreciated "the show" that is put on there, a fast paced and entertaining evening.
We took them to the Belle Meade Plantation. Excellent tour by a well educated "tour guide". We took them to The Cheesecake Factory for lunch, huge success followed by a quick side trip to find Vince Gill and Amy Grants home in Belle Meade, thanks to Jake's excellent map skills.
It was sad to see them leave. Dad and I so appreciate the effort, time and expense that many of you have made to visit us here. You have accepted our move away as a positive. We are thankful.
Love to all,
bab
Wednesday, February 6, 2008
Super Storms
Last night we lived through hours of super storm cells passing overhead. Our NOAA radio screeched for hours. We spent time in our closet, prepared yet praying for God's protection.
We had nothing more here in our neighbourhood than lots of rain, few lightning, little wind. We are so fortunate as many here in Tennessee were very hard hit.
We had blankets and pillows and water and cell phones and Mercy and the 3 of us all huddled in our closet in the bathroom. Cozy and hot.
We saw from our front porch, an orange glow of a huge fire. We thought our downtown was on fire. It was a gas line pumping station hit by lightning or wind or something that blew up.
I still think I'd rather live through a blizzard than a night of tornado warnings.
God bless you,
Grandma
We had nothing more here in our neighbourhood than lots of rain, few lightning, little wind. We are so fortunate as many here in Tennessee were very hard hit.
We had blankets and pillows and water and cell phones and Mercy and the 3 of us all huddled in our closet in the bathroom. Cozy and hot.
We saw from our front porch, an orange glow of a huge fire. We thought our downtown was on fire. It was a gas line pumping station hit by lightning or wind or something that blew up.
I still think I'd rather live through a blizzard than a night of tornado warnings.
God bless you,
Grandma
Tuesday, January 1, 2008
Happy New Years 2008!
Another blank slate, another turn of the page, more opportunities, more challenges, more blessings. This New Years more than others I find I am more aware of the freshness this day brings.
But I can rest knowing God has His plan for me all set out, I just need to be obedient!
We had such a great time at Christmas with kids and grandkids. We consider it all pure joy to have been placed in a family with these amazing people. Our travel was uneventful, which is always appreciated. No border crossing issues. It really is worth it to have those Visas.
We had visits with Ontario friends after our kids went for their Christmas visits to spousal families. We had lunch with Karen and Dave and dinner at Bob and Mabel's with Bill and Mary and Ron and Marg. Fun times!
After we arrived home Al and Joyce arrived for two nights on their way to Florida. They were interested in visiting the Country Hall of Fame and Museum and then we walked Broadway and visited a few tourist trap shops. I always feel sad when people leave, having familiar folks around is always a blessing.
Today we are taking it easy watching the parades and football and the outside hockey game in Buffalo. Go Sabres Go, Wilson!
Love to all
Grandma
But I can rest knowing God has His plan for me all set out, I just need to be obedient!
We had such a great time at Christmas with kids and grandkids. We consider it all pure joy to have been placed in a family with these amazing people. Our travel was uneventful, which is always appreciated. No border crossing issues. It really is worth it to have those Visas.
We had visits with Ontario friends after our kids went for their Christmas visits to spousal families. We had lunch with Karen and Dave and dinner at Bob and Mabel's with Bill and Mary and Ron and Marg. Fun times!
After we arrived home Al and Joyce arrived for two nights on their way to Florida. They were interested in visiting the Country Hall of Fame and Museum and then we walked Broadway and visited a few tourist trap shops. I always feel sad when people leave, having familiar folks around is always a blessing.
Today we are taking it easy watching the parades and football and the outside hockey game in Buffalo. Go Sabres Go, Wilson!
Love to all
Grandma
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