Gramme's Blog

Happy New Year

2011-12-31T21:16:00.000-05:00

I haven't been reading or writing much ......well really not at all .........lately! Not sure what I've been doing but there just doesn't seem to be enough hours in a day to do all the things I want to do. Bryson is doing great..........5 years old already. Time sure is flying!

Wishing you all a Very Happy New Year!

Hopefully in 2012 I will have more time:)

I'm Here but Not Back

2011-11-03T20:06:00.000-04:00

So many things have happen since my last post, I honestly haven't had the time to write or make comments.

Bryson is doing well. It's unbelieveable how fast kids recover. He's growing like a weed and continues to suprise me! It's hard to believe he will start school in just 8 months.

In October I flew by myself to New Jersey to surprise my Aunt on her 80th Birthday. It was so wonderful to spend time with family. Also in Octoer we went to the State Fair and of couse Halloween. As I write this I'm wondering what else have I been doing with my time and my mind is drawing a blank.
Hopefully one day soon I will get back to reading about what you all have been up too because I have been thinking about you!

Bryson ~ Surgery ~ Update

2011-09-12T23:33:00.000-04:00

Bryson's surgery went well today! When we left the hospital tonight he was resting and watching tv! He still has the IV in his hand and a drain tube in his head. Hopefully it will all come out tomorrow.

Thank you so much for your thoughts and prayers! Please continue to pray for a speedy recovery for Bryson. He really has been a brave little boy through all of this!

Bryson ~ Surgery ~ September 12, 2011

2011-09-07T22:15:00.000-04:00

Bryson is having surgery on Monday, September 12th. to close part of his skull that did not close properly and by now should have after Craniosynostosis surgery in 2007.

Here is a little information about Craniosynostosis. Infants are born with skulls composed of six separate bone plates, separated by areas of soft fibrous tissue known as sutures. (The areas where sutures intersect are the fontanelles, often referred to as the “soft spots.”) Under normal circumstances, sutures expand through early childhood to allow the skull to accommodate the growing brain. The sutures then fuse at specific pre-programmed ages throughout the course of life, resulting in the round head shape we're accustomed to seeing. If, however, one or more of the sutures closes prematurely, craniosynostosis (abnormal growth and development of the skull) is the result.

Please Pray for Bryson, the doctor's and his momma and daddy!

Fun at the NC Museums

2011-09-04T12:00:00.000-04:00

We are always trying to find new and fun things to do with our grandson. Back in June we took him to the NC Museum of Life and Science and the History Museum. It was educational as well as a fun way to spend the day with Bryson!

Tomorrow ~ August 25, 2011

2011-08-24T20:28:00.001-04:00

Tomorrow in 1968 my mom passed away. So many years ago but it still makes me sad!
School starts tomorrow so I will be heading back to work. As always I am really nervous. This year especially because I will be working with two new teachers. Plus a lot of changes have been made at my school and with the budject cuts that means more duties for me.
Wish me luck! I'm trying to be postive but I think it will be a hard day!
Maybe I'll get those Europe pictures up some day.

We're Home from Europe

2011-08-06T22:13:00.000-04:00

We've been home for about a week but I am still so far behind that I'm not sure I'll ever get caught up. Laundry for 3 weeks, bills, grocery shopping ..........well you all know what I'm talking about.

We had such a wonderful time ~ Germany, France, Austria and Italy. I loved them all! Hopefully someday soon I will be able to post more pictures.

Going to Germany

2011-07-07T00:47:00.000-04:00

Just wanted to let everyone know that I will be on vacation for a few weeks! My husband has a business trip to Germany and I get to go with him. Well, we do have to pay for my plane ticket.
If anyone has any ideas of things that we must see I would love to hear them.

What Keeps A Little Boy Entertained For Hours

2011-06-30T11:14:00.000-04:00

Just a Few Memories

2011-06-19T08:42:00.000-04:00

Trips to Save On Drug store for an ice cream cone
Drive in movies
Bike rides in the early evenings
Hugs
Teaching me how to color and ride a bike
Decorating for Christmas
Patience
Swimming with me even though he never learned how
Letting my cousin Vickie and I fill up the area he was making into a family room with water and use it for a pool
Fourth of July
Talking, Talking and Talking
Unconditional Love

My Dad and me on my first birthday!
I miss him everyday!

I am very blessed that I had such a wonderful father!

My girls too are blessed with a wonderful father!

Happy Father's Day to all the Great Dads!

The Last Few Weeks

2011-06-11T22:46:00.000-04:00

They say that a picture is worth a thousand words ~

Easter

Our oldest daughter Angela graduated from NCSU with a Master's Degree. We are extremely proud of her!

Our grandson......at his Awanna Ceremony. He had to memorize a Bible verse each week. At only 4 years old .......we think he's pretty smart!

I'm Still Here

2011-05-24T19:04:00.000-04:00

just been too busy to post.

Fish Sitting ~ Almost

2011-05-01T18:16:00.000-04:00

A few weeks ago when my daughter lost power they move all their refrigerator stuff to our house. Plus the fish tank. Her husband Sean had to take it all apart in order to bring it over to our house and then reset it back up at our house. This took several hours and then...........their power came back on. They were planning on just leaving the fish at our house for a few days but Bryson got so upset that his daddy caved in and took Bryson's fish back home.

Meet Nemo, Thomas, Cranky and Salty

Can you believe these are the Gold Fish that are given away as prizes at Fairs? They have really grown in 6 months!

He said "Bye I'm going to miss you" and then started crying.

Daddy taking the fish tank back apart.

Ready to go home.

Twisters

2011-04-17T08:40:00.001-04:00

My 4 1/2 year old grandson and my daughter made this picture for his preschool homework. It had to be about weather. He wanted a tornado (or twister as he likes to call them), house, cow, train and dirt in his picture. This is the final project.

Little did they know that the next day ~ we would have severe weather in our area with tornado's. Around 62 tornado's in 15 counties in 5 hours. My thoughts and prayers go out to all those effected by this devastation!

There Are Advantages

2011-04-03T18:55:00.000-04:00

to having your road closed ~

The Day Has Come. by gayle's husband

2011-03-20T19:59:00.000-04:00

The time has finally come, they are about to close our road, peace and quiet, and no more traffic going by. Well that is not exactly how it works, we will still have all the construction equipment. You know, the 6am, 3 dozen diesel engines coming to life roaring as they jockey into position for the day’s work. Then the beep, beep, beep as they hit reverse and just sit there. It is almost as if they think, if I can’t sleep then no one can and believe me no one can, that is except for my wife. She could sleep through a bomb attack and wake up asking why am I so grumpy. I can’t believe her, once she is asleep nothing bothers her but me, on the other hand a Nat could fart and I would heat it, this is so annoying.

They have been working with the bridge on our road that will cross over I-540 for several months. I can’t believe how fast they can build a bridge once the concrete cures in the abutment and center piers. Except for the side rails the bridge is finished and they are now starting to work on the road bed leading to the bridge. Here are some photos of how the bridge has progressed with time.

Beginning ground work for bridge. Nov 10, 2010

Bridge Foundation & Supports being built Nov.18, 2010

Bridge Center Support Nov.28, 2010

Wal-la, a bridge.

I left for two weeks in Feb. to work in LA, CA.,

came home and all of a sudden it is a Bridge Feb.26, 2010

Above & 2 Below Pics show

Removing a small hill in preparation for the new road bed leading up to the bridge. Bridge is behind the Dozer. Mar.19,2011

The old road will be removed starting Monday 3-21-11

G.D.Woods

I Need Help

2011-03-06T14:06:00.000-05:00

I have tons of blogs that I follow and I love them all! What I need help on is how to keep up with everyone! There are so many different ways to do that and I have been doing it my way forever that I was wondering what the best way is. Does that make sense?

My way ~ go to my Dashboard ~ never close it down and then read from there ( there meaning the right side) but it seems to be messing up lately. Now when ever my computer shuts down I can only go back about one day so if I have missed a day then I probably missed someones blog post. Yesterday and today, I've been going on my left side of my Dashboard and pulling one blog up at a time and reading that way. This can be time consuming because I can get caught up in reading several posts on one blog.

I know some of you go through Google Reader but I've looked at that and it seems confusing and I can't figure how to comment through that.

I would really appreciate any suggestions! Plus do those of you who work outside the home read blogs every day or just a few times a week. Do you set a time limit? I really really feel that I am spending more time ...........well I know I am .....reading blogs than reading the many books I have on my list.

As far as posting I only post when I have something I want to share so I don't have any problems with posting ...........just the reading part.

So Glad My Grandson Likes To Read

2011-02-27T19:44:00.000-05:00

My daughter took this picture of my grandson the other night. He fell asleep while reading.

Grandpa Returns With Gifts

2011-02-20T21:02:00.000-05:00

but only for Bryson!!

Gerald returned from working in California for 2 long, hard weeks. No breaks, no lunch and very long hours. The first thing that Bryson asked him was "Did you have fun on your vacation Grandpa"?

Just Been Sick and Tired

2011-02-10T21:01:00.000-05:00

I was sick for six days and then I had to go back to work .............So I am very tired. Haven't been able to see my grandson. Plus I live a very boring life.....nothing exciting to post about. I'm trying to read blogs but I am behind as always. One more day and then the weekend. Hope yours is great!

I Thought This Was The Sweetest Thing

2011-01-30T19:39:00.000-05:00

I was playing with my grandson last night at my daughter and son in laws house when I saw the picture of my dad. Bryson I said, "That's my daddy." He said, "Is he gone?" (Wonder how he knew?) I said, "yes." My daughter Emily said, "that's my grandpa and he's in heaven." Bryson asked if he was with Jesus. "Yes he is," Emily said. What surprised us was when Bryson who is four years old said,
"Do you miss him?"

Children's minds are such a mystery. We really don't know what they are thinking. One thing I know for sure is they are a whole lot smarter than any of us realize.

I Guess You Could Call Me Lazy

2011-01-26T22:10:00.000-05:00

Monday I was off work, so I scheduled two doctor appointments. I really thought it would be a smart thing to do. I was wrong!! When I got up Monday morning I just didn't feel like getting dress, putting on makeup and doing my hair, so I canceled both of my appointments. I am getting so Lazy!!

Farmers and Flea Market's

2011-01-18T20:38:00.001-05:00

If it seems like my life centers around my grandson and family.....well it does and I love it that way!

Yesterday was a beautiful day here so we decide to get out and visit our Farmers and Flea Market.
Didn't find anything we wanted but it was great spending time with each other!

Popcorn

Junk

More junk

Anyone know what these are?

Resting

The best part of my day!

I Feel Guilty

2011-01-11T20:09:00.000-05:00

Schools and businesses are closed around here because of icy roads. My youngest daughter and grandson spent the night here last night because her husband is out of town. We are all iced in together. I have done nothing all day except ~ eat, watch tv, read blogs and play with my grandson.
I feel guilty that I haven't ~ washed clothes, taken down the rest of my Christmas decorations, paid bills and all the many things I need to do. Am I weird?
Don't get me wrong, I have loved every minute of this icy day!

Making cookies

Bryson and his mommy cuddling.

I Almost Got

2011-01-06T22:48:00.000-05:00

An IPhone for my anniversary! But my husband said it didn't come in RED!!

I said RED??? He said...........you know red for ruby.........40th Anniversary!

My Daughter Emily Made Me

2010-12-31T19:11:00.000-05:00

This beautiful Snow Cube! It has white lights inside of it. Isn't she crafty!

Better Late Than Never

2010-12-29T09:27:00.000-05:00

I know it's late but I just had to show these pictures of our beautiful snow fall!

Christmas Celebrations ~ 2010

2010-12-26T12:26:00.001-05:00

My brother Greg ~ Christmas Night

Bryson loved his Toy Story Trash Truck

Stocking at Gramme's House

Such a fun age

My youngest daughter,her husband and my grandson.

My oldest daughter with Kendrick and Bryson.
Bryson and Auntie Ange love each other so much!

Grandpa & Gramme with the Sweetest Little Boy Ever

A Delicious Box of Chocolate Costs ~

2010-12-22T20:39:00.000-05:00

How much???

40 Years Ago Today ~

2010-12-19T10:03:00.000-05:00

Was Our Wedding Day

Our Christmas Celebrations Have Begun!

2010-12-15T21:46:00.000-05:00

My niece Ally, grandson Bryson and my nephew Colby

Oh how I love Christmas time!! We had our first of several get-together's last Sunday night. This year we went to my brother's house. The kids had a great time opening presents and playing together! The adults ate and talked and ate again and again!

Here in the South

2010-12-04T19:37:00.000-05:00

It Snow Today! About a 1/4 inch.

Our Wonderful Thanksgiving Trip To NJ

2010-12-01T22:00:00.000-05:00

My Aunt Nora (my mom's sister) holding pictures of her and my mom as little girls and with their dad (my Grandpa).

My Aunt Nora, me and my cousin Lynn ~ knitting a dishrag/washrag for me.

Cousin Lynn, Aunt Nora, Lori (Lynn's daughter) and Katelyn (Lori's daughter) at Lori's house.
I can not describe in words what a wonderful time we had while in NJ!!! We talked and laughed for hours. I miss being with them so much already!!

We Knew This Day Would Come

2010-11-14T21:46:00.000-05:00

When we built our home in 1987 we knew this day would come. The question was when. We made it 23 years but unfortunately that day is here. Earlier this year our trees were destroyed to move power lines. But not until they started the bridge did we fully realize the destruction. Our peaceful country lifestyle is no more. The interstate will soon be here and it's here forever.

Happy 4th Birthday to My Grandson

2010-11-07T20:01:00.000-05:00

The last 4 years have been truly wonderful with our grandson. This year he celebrated his 4th birthday with some of his little friends. We had an awesome time joining in on the fun! A special thanks to Granny Mac (Maxine) for bringing Colby.

My Little Fireman

2010-11-01T20:02:00.000-04:00

I had a wonderful time with my grandson Trick or Treating last night. It was the first time he had gone door to door and after the first couple of houses he was a pro!! Saying "I can go by myself"

Happy Birthday To My Daughter ~ Emily ~ October 30th

2010-10-29T21:53:00.000-04:00

Emily just a few days old

First Easter

She was always into something! Still is!!

Ready for Santa!

Such a sweet smile

Little Cheerleader

Sister's ~ Such Love

So Beautiful!

Emily, her husband and son ~ my precious Bryson

Happy Birthday to a wonderful daughter!! I am so very very proud of you!! You are an Awesome Mother! In fact you are the best mother that I know!!

Look What I Got In The Mail ~ I Won!!

2010-10-26T19:00:00.000-04:00

I won again!! Well, really I won this first but it just took it longer to get here because it was sent by the publisher or someone else, not sure who. I had orginally only won one book but because they where out of that book, I was sent two books. How lucky am I!!!

I want to Thank Lynette Again!!! Thank you Lynette!! Check her out at Lynette at Crazed Mind. She is Awesome!!!

NC State Fair ~ 2010

2010-10-17T19:05:00.002-04:00

We have many fond memories of the NC State Fair. One of our first dates was to the fair. Gerald took his sisters to the state fair while I was home with a brand new baby girl, Angela. He took Angela to the fair when she was 5 because I felt it just wasn't a place I should or wanted to be 9 months pregnant with Emily. We took our girls when they were small, we've gone with friends and we have gone many times just with each other. This year we took our daughter Emily and grandson Bryson. We had a wonderful time!! Can't wait to go back again next year!!!

Bryson and Gramme

Bryson and his Mommy

Bryson and Grandpa Won a Prize

Bryson and Grandpa Fun on the Slide!

Fried Oreo...........Yummy!!

California ~

2010-10-13T20:39:00.000-04:00

The place of my birth
My mom and dad
My brother, Greg
Grandma and Grandpa Clawson, Grandpa Abreu
Many Aunts and Uncles
Many more cousins
Friends
St. John of God Catholic School, uniforms, friends, nuns and priests, first through seventh grade
Mass almost everyday
Riding my bike to school, the library
Walking to school, the pool and the liquor store
Lazy days laying on the grass in my front yard
Summer nights playing outside, tether ball and hiding go seek, my birthday parties
Fourth of July, Christmas, Thanksgiving get togethers
Spending the night with cousins and slumber parties with friends
Memories ~ so many
A place that will be in my heart forever!

I Won ~ Thank You

2010-10-10T19:52:00.000-04:00

Lately I have been entering a few giveaways around the blogsphere! Guess what ...... I won!!
When the package arrived I was so excited, I just tore open the bag to see my new book. Books are one of my favorite things! Well, much to my surprise I got more than just the book that I had won. Just look at everything I received ~

I received this wonderful package from Lynette at Crazed Mind Thank you so much Lynette!!

This is the first time I have ever used the hyper link and I did it all my by myself!!!!

Happy Birthday to My Daughter ~ Angela

2010-10-05T21:35:00.001-04:00

In honor of my oldest daughter's birthday, I thought I would post a few pictures of her.

This is me when I was pregnant with her in 1972

Me and Gerald in front of our first home when I was pregnant with Angela

Gerald feeding Angela Very Late one night

My dad with Angela

My very favorite picture

Angela with her first birthday presents

Angela eating her very first birthday cake

I don't know how you all do this but it took me and my husband hours to do this with the new editor. There has to be a faster way!!!

Angela is a ninth grade high school English teacher, is National Board Certified and working on her master degree which she will finish this spring.

What Would You Want To Know

2010-09-19T12:46:00.005-04:00

I am going to visit my last living relative on my mother's side that really Knew my mom....my mom's sister ......so I thought I would ask my aunt some questions about my mom and their childhood. Would love to have any suggestions on what you would want to know if you were me.

New Technology

2010-09-15T17:35:00.005-04:00

My 3 1/2 year old grandson using my computer!! Just seems like yesterday that I learn how!!

From a Son-in-Law’s Perspective

2010-09-11T10:55:00.010-04:00

Posted on Gayle's blog by her husband, Gerald.

I certainly have heard lots and sure many others have told or heard stories of arguments, disagreements and just plain, I can’t stand my in-laws. I think this sentiment goes in both directions and for the life of me can’t understand why. Friendship or Relationships aren’t just thrown out at you; it is something that requires just a little work on both sides.

I was married in 1970 at 17 and early on, I think by my nature just automatically befriended my In-Laws.

Sure, no friendship will be with out an argument from time to time but a friendship like a marriage is what you make it. He treated me well and he deserved no less.

This is an attempt to honor a man that I liked, loved and admired like a real DAD. I am sure my father-in-law Gene Clawson was the type of man that everyone wants to have as an in-law and this speaks to his character and personality.

These are a few things that I remember about Gene.

First, he earned my respect and friendship early on and always treated me good.

He was enemy to no one and could strike up a conversation with any stranger.

He had a knack for telling stories especially those of his childhood. They were worthy of print.

I remember family reunion and other events where the kids were drawn to him like a magnet.

He was always willing to help me on a project I was working on.

He was not a rich man and would give you his last penny.

The times that really stand out, were that every Friday evening Gayle and I would go to his house and visit. This was a routine event and was never dreaded; in fact, it was one event that we looked forwarded to. It wasn’t a luxurious home but it had most all that he needed, even though it needed and required lots of maintenance. We sat around on his glassed in porch going over the things that took place that week and revisited old stories. later when it was time to eat we would go to one of several of his hang outs, normally McDonalds’ where he had many friends and knew everyone. Most nights we got our moneys worth drinking cup after cup of coffee while talking.

Going to his house was a fun and relaxing way to spend our Fridays nights but no more. For many months after his death on 3/22/ 1998 I could hear a truck coming down my road and immediately think Gene is here only moments later to realize that no he will never be back. This would stir up lots of emotions and sadness, knowing that those good times were gone forever.

Twelve years later, there are many times where Gayle and I will be sitting around and say “Gene sure would have liked this” or “sure wished he could have met our grandson”. These moments would more times than not get us reminiscing about those good times when we would get together with him, doing nothing more than simple talking and loving every minute.

He was a good guy, good Dad and good friend. Wow, we still miss him today!

September 11th ~ My Dad's Birthday

2010-09-08T20:58:00.006-04:00

As we all remember the many lives that were lost on that terrible day ~ September 11th...........I am also remembering my dad's birthday. As I have said before, he was a wonderful man who was loved by all who met him ~ young and old. I so wish that he was here to see my daughters (his granddaughters) and all that they have accomplished.............his son,Rusty, my brother an awesome father now.......married to the most wonderful woman in the world.........there two kids ( his grandson and granddaughter) ..........my grandson ( his great grandson)......his son Greg ...........all the many things he has learned. I miss him so much!! We all do!!

Weekend at the Beach

2010-09-06T22:56:00.004-04:00

We had a wonderful time at the beach this weekend with Shelba and David!!!

Shelba and I have been friends for 42 years and the guys maybe longer! They introduced me to my husband.

3 Years, 9 Months and 21 Days Later

2010-09-01T17:08:00.008-04:00

Grandpa and Bryson in his toy closet.

Finally my husband made a Height Chart for our grandson!!! He had been thinking about it and planning it for a long time. It took him 3 days to make but like anything he makes it's Perfect!!!

Gone 42 years!!

2010-08-24T17:33:00.018-04:00

My mom passed away in 1968 ~ 42 years ago!!

She died way too soon and way too young!! As long as it's been I still think about her almost daily!

May 15, 1930 ~ August 25, 1968

I will always ask ~ WHY???

Back to Work:((((

2010-08-22T14:38:00.006-04:00

I am a TA ~ Teacher Assistant ~ which means I help the teacher, kids and anything else that I am asked to do.

My first day back was one LONG meeting!!

Second day back was more meetings and reading and signing papers ~ Employee Handbook, Bloodborne Pathogens, Sexual Harrasment, Diabetes Awarenss Review, Seclusion and Restraint and Email Acceptable Use. While all these are necessary ~ what I don't understand is why I have to read/watch them every year!! This took almost a half a day and the last one I just did at home. Finally got in the room to work after lunch.

Days three and four where ~ cleaning, arranging the furniture (which was stacked for the summer because that is what we are told to do), writing names on folders, running off papers,

rehanging posters, bulletins boards, door decorations, wall decorations, laminating, name tags, lunch table tags etc etc.

Plus this year I am being shared between Two teachers so I had to do most of this twice!

This will be a Very Hard Year!!

Good News!!!!!

2010-08-17T19:24:00.004-04:00

My grandson's white blood count was up when he went back to Duke on Monday. It is still low so he has to go back for more blood tests next week. The Hematologist thinks it might have been a virus. I am just so happy that is wasn't anything serious!!! Still a little worried and will be until the doctors say for sure he is completely healthy!

Please Pray

2010-08-15T14:37:00.004-04:00

Please Pray for My Grandson!!

He was running a fever all week so his pediatrician sent him to Duke University Children's Emergency room on Friday. They ran many blood tests,a urine test and a chest xray. His white blood count was very low. They gave him an IV antibiotic and sent him home. On Saturday his parents had to take him back for more blood tests and antibiotic. Tomorrow (Monday) they have to go back to the Duke Children's Hospital for more blood tests and meet with a Hematologist. His white blood count has gone up. We are praying that it will continue to go up and he is completely healthy.

This Is How I Feel About ~

2010-08-12T20:07:00.002-04:00

going back to work on Tuesday!! I've been off for the summer and I dread going back to work!

You Might Be A Redneck If ~

2010-08-02T21:30:00.000-04:00

you go to Lowes to get wood and use your John Boat to haul it home in. That's exactly what my son in law did. He has an eight foot truck bed and needed to haul sixteen foot long lumber so this was his solution. Pretty ingenuous!

Do Kids Still Play With These?

2010-07-31T08:45:00.003-04:00

Let's Make A Movie Theater

This is what Bryson wanted to do when he came over to our house the other day! Of course, Grandpa helped. Does anyone remember Lincoln Logs? What are your experiences with them?
Me ~ I don't remember playing with them as a child and my daughters didn't have them either. So this is a new experience for me! Grandpa and Bryson love playing with Lincoln Logs!!

Finally we took ~

2010-07-28T23:30:00.000-04:00

Bryson to see his first movie and it was ~ Toy Story 3

I was extremely surprise at how well Bryson at 3 1/2 seem to understand the movie. There were several parts in the movie that were sad and parts that would be scary to a young child. During those times Bryson would say "I'm ready to go home." He was very good........laughed when appropriate, sat quietly in his seat, ate his popcorn and drank his drink...........More well behave than many adults!!! According to Bryson it was awesome and I am so glad!!!

Beach Weekend

2010-07-28T00:43:00.003-04:00

We had a wonderful time with friends....Shelba and David at their beautiful beach home this weekend!!

My daughter, her husband, his mom and my grandson just happened to be at Topsail. So they stopped by to visit. Bryson even got to swim with Grandpa in the new pool!!

Ever Heard of ???

2010-07-22T21:13:00.004-04:00

a Donut Peach????

PS ................I'm at the beach...............having fun with friends!! I will be catching up with you soon!!

Just A Few Birthday Pictures

2010-07-20T20:46:00.008-04:00

My grandson told his Mommy that he wanted Gramme to have a Princess cake!! I am so very lucky!!

`comments off

Am I????

2010-07-15T10:10:00.001-04:00

Do you ever feel like you are losing your mind? Well, lately I do. I have never had a good memory for names and it is getting worse!!! Now I am not remembering other things.

Also, I can't seem to make the simplest decision!!! It is driving me crazy.

Where do I put this picture? What do I do with this? What do I do first? Just do something I say to myself!! Look at your list!! I have tons of stuff on it but don't know where to start!!

I can't make a decision!!!!!!

It really hit home when just today...........I can't decide if I should keep my mom's ironing board that has to be at least 50 years old or the ironing board that I got from my husband's friend that has to be around 20 years old. I DON'T NEED TWO. I rarely use one!!!

Please tell me that someone out there is having the same problems I am.

Memory!!! Decisions!!!

One Of My Favorite Places

2010-07-09T15:28:00.005-04:00

This is one of my most favorite places in the whole world!! It is a place that I rode my bicycle to when I was living in CA ( wasn't even a teenager yet), a place that most cities and towns have at least one of, a place that I took my girls to once a week, at least, in the summer. I have neglected going to this special place because of blogging and other things. This place will always hold special memories for me!! It's not even the building because the really special one was replaced many years ago with a fancy one. I have neglected this place also by buying books. For many weeks now I have wanted to share this special place with my grandson! I want him to have the same love for it that I have. We shall see! Everyone is different!!

Today is the day..........

Bryson's First Visit to the Public Library

Bouncy House Fun

2010-07-08T19:16:00.004-04:00

Where do you go when you have promised your grandson a trip to the pool and it's just too hot??!! You go to the Bouncy House!! We have three in our area and this was the only one that was open at 5pm on a weekday. My daughter and I were not to impressed but Bryson had a fun time!! Sometime in the next few months we will try to check out the other two. They had two small houses and one large house to bounce in, a play area with toys and a sand area. We stayed an hour and this Gramme was hot and tired when it was time to leave!!

Different Than I Thought

2010-07-05T00:39:00.005-04:00

Today turned out much different than I thought it would. At the last minute our youngest daughter invited us over for supper and boy am I glad we went!! She is a wonderful cook!!! So the rolled steak, twice baked potatoes and salad were delicious. She even had a red, white and blue dessert. Her mother in law, Peggy was there and she made delicious ~ margaritas and banana daiquiris. The highlight of the evening was watching Bryson and the fireworks!!

Vacation 2010 Tennessee

2010-07-01T14:41:00.016-04:00

Bryson driving Gramme ~ DollyWood

Jellyfish ~ Aquarium ~ Gatlinburg, TN Tons of fun having water gun fights!!

Petting Zoo ~ Sevierville, TN

Gerald ( Grandpa ) and Bryson in front of the condo.

So excited on this water ride at Dollywood that Bryson wanted to ride it again!!

The DollyWood train smelled so bad that Bryson did this on his own.

Me and Bryson ~ Sevierville, TN Emily, Bryson and Sean ~ Sevierville, TN

Bryson on the Bee Ride ~ DollyWood

Duck Game ~ Bryson and Sean ~ DollyWood

Elephant Ride ~ Sean and Bryson ~ DollyWood

Our Condo Apple View River Resorts ~ Sevierville, Tn

My Dad

2010-06-15T17:31:00.010-04:00

My Dad, brother Rusty, me and my brother Greg.

My Dad

Whenever I talk about my dad........I always say my dad. Sometimes I say Grandpa Clawson and sometimes Dad but mostly I say my dad. My Dad was Wonderful!!!! He was loved by all who knew him. He accepted people for who they were and never judged. His life was not any easy one but I know he was happy. He was surrounded by family and friends that loved him. I could not have asked for a better dad!! I am so thankful that he knew this when he was alive. I have no regrets. We were very close and he knew how much I loved him and he also knew how much his death was going to effect me. Sitting around my kitchen table we had many opportunities to talk and talk we did. He shared his thoughts about his life with me. He told me to "remember the good times" but it is so hard to remember the good times without being sad. He died in 1998 as I have probably said before and it is still very hard on me at times. The last 2 months have been especially hard and I am not sure why. Maybe May being Mother's Day (my mom died in 1968) and June being Father's Day has trigger it. I just have moments when I miss my dad so very much. Father's Day is Sunday and if your dad, daddy, father is alive.......don't forget to tell him how much he means to you. If you are not on the best of terms with you dad, you may want to take this Father's Day to become closer.....because once they are gone it's too late.

Why Not?

2010-06-07T23:07:00.006-04:00

I want to respond to the continued whining by so many that we cannot raise taxes during this difficult time. I say why not? As a school teacher my taxes have been raised a number of times in the past year. We just do not call them taxes. The state furloughed me last year; that cost me $350.00. I will not get my step-raise, which we receive for each year of experience, $70.00/month. I will not receive the pay promised for improving my students learning each year, a minimum of $750.00. Now the legislature is talking about another furlough this year, another $350.00 at least. Therefore, in the last year my “taxes” have increased at least $2,150.00 or $180.00 a month. To those that say that I should be happy I have a job I am but I have worked long and hard for this job. I have earned it; it was not given to me as a gift. On the other hand raising the property taxes $0.05 would cost about $7.00/month on a $200,000 house. I wish somebody would explain the math to me.

This was written by a friend of mine, John Reseigne, who is a teacher at my school. What do you think? All comments are welcome...pro or con.

OREO COWS

2010-06-06T00:34:00.003-04:00

My daughter, grandson, husband and I rode around and discovered these cows. Aren't they cute? My daughter thought they look just like an Oreo cookie! Anyone know their real name?

Notes Taken In 1990

2010-06-02T17:14:00.005-04:00

I took the following notes while talking to my dad one day. He died in 1998. I am sure most of this will not even be of interest to anyone other than my family.

The house my dad lived in while growing up in Nebraska had two bedrooms upstairs. The girls shared a room and the boys shared a room. One bedroom downstairs was for their parents.
My Grandma ( his mom) use to heat some type of irons and put at the bottom of the beds to keep them warm.
The bucket that they used to go to the bathroom in was frozen many winter mornings.
My dad went to school from first to eight grade in a one room school house. He got glasses when he was in the fifth grade. He got very sick in the 11th grade with Scarlet Fever. He was out so long and got so far behind that he never went back. He finished his high school education after I was born and in grade school.
The teachers sometimes live with my dads family.
After the 8th grade he had to go away for high school, in Curtis, Nebraska.
Grandma (his mom) use to read stories or play the piano at night. She played the Black Hawk Waltz. I use to call this the wiping song because she seemed to wipe her fingers over the keys. It wasn't until years later that I even knew the name of the song.
In 1948, Grandpa and Grandma ( my dad's parents), my dad, my Aunt Alta, Uncle Delbert and Uncle Charles moved for Nebraska to LA, California. My dad was 22 and his youngest brother Charles was 7 years old. My dad and Uncle Delbert drove together. My dads oldest sister Gen and her first husband Harry already live in CA. His older brother Albert was in college in Lincoln, Nebraska. His younger sister Sylvia was in college in Kearney, Nebraska. His younger sister Zella was married and lived in Lincoln, Nebraska.

My dad worked at a gas station and my mom worked at a movie theater near by, when they were very young. My mom would sit on a bench at the bus stop and my dad would see her sitting there. One day he asked her if he could drive her home. That was the beginning.

My dad tried to in list in the Navy but was drafted in the Marines.
The first 6 months of my life he was in the service.

Our house in CA cost $10,000. $250 down and $67.50 a month

I have more notes like this packed in boxes. It's fun for me to go back and read them from time to time. I wish I had asked more questions when my parents and grandparents were living and that I had written more down. If your parents and or grandparents are still living be sure to ask and write down any questions you have. I wonder how many people do this.

Parents Make Sure Your Boys

2010-05-24T18:44:00.003-04:00

Learn to Cook

Beauty Amongst Destruction

2010-05-21T18:06:00.003-04:00

Even though our front yard was destroyed by the state ..........Beauty has still managed to come through!

First Fish

2010-05-18T17:04:00.002-04:00

My grandson caught his first fish!!! He caught it all by himself. I think that's pretty good for only 3 1/2 years old!

Memories About My Parents

2010-05-15T18:24:00.010-04:00

I received this letter several months ago from my Aunt. It means the world to me.

I was thinking about life before you and LynDel were born a few days ago and I’m not sure I’ve ever told you about times I spent with your Dad & Mom before and after I married Uncle Del. If I have, I apologize for the repeat.

When I met everyone years ago at a family picnic in Griffith’s Park, I was immediately accepted and I liked them all very much. Your Dad & Mom were very nice to me (a17 yr old who was enamored with Uncle Del) and Uncle Charles was especially fun. He was like the brother I never had. That was, what was to be, the beginning of a lasting love for the Clawson’s I met that day. Aunt Alta and Uncle Joe were there too. I remember spending Thanksgiving with Dad & Mom and then at Christmas there was a time of sharing as well.

The following year your Dad joined the Marines and Uncle Del went into the Naval Reserve. This would have been 1952 I believe. When your Dad was in Boot Camp at Camp Pendleton Uncle Del, Dad & Mom Clawson, your Mom and I drove down to see him. Unfortunately it was raining that day and how it did pour. We had to sit in the car and eat the nice lunch that we had brought. But that was O.K. we were glad to be together. From our vantage point we could see the tents that these Recruits lived in and was I shocked to see a 10” high space, from the ground up, all around each tent. Talk about automatic A/C that was ridiculous. Your Mom wasn’t thrilled with it at all. Your Dad had a bad cold that day and I’m sure that was the reason. Probably a lot of the other Men had them as well. What the purpose of it was I’m not sure but I suspect it had something to do with their strict standards and wanting “tough” men in their outfits. Your Dad survived it but to my way of thinking it wasn’t necessary. (but what do I know ) Uncle Del didn’t have that kind of conditions to live with. He had lots of strange things to do but that one still stands out in my mind after all these years. We had a great day in spite of the weather and I know your Dad was glad to have us there. We must have been a sight, all of us squeezed into that car but we did fine. Uncle Del just reminded me that a man from the base was also with us in the car. (we had fried chicken, potato salad & beans among other things) We steamed up the windows too .

Another memory is of meeting your Mom for lunch downtown. We both worked down in the same area but at different places. (Aunt Alta & I worked in the same building at one time) At times I would go home with your Mom on a Friday Night and spend the night. (after Uncle Del had been called up from the Reserves to active duty)We’d have such a good time. They had this cute little house that was behind another big home in LA. Your Mom & Dad were married before us of course and when Uncle Del was called up, your Dad returned the favor of taking me to see him when he was in Boot Camp in SanDiego. Now picture this, he only had a weekend pass and he’d come up on Friday Night, drive me, plus you Mom, to San Diego on Saturday, then have to return to base on Sunday. He was stationed in Barstow at that time. Talk about a lot of driving!!! I’ve often wondered how that set with your Mom. I’m sure she wasn’t always thrilled but I don’t remember her making any remarks.

Remembering the Wedding: when we were married, your Dad & Mom stood up with us as you know and the only regret I have is that we didn’t have the guys wear their uniforms. That would have been special. But we were young and dumb. Before the wedding, your Mom was a help to me. We talked of many things on the nights I spent with her and she helped me find someone who could lend me my Veil, as her dress didn’t have one. She was already pregnant with you by this time and we weren’t sure she could get the dress on she was to wear as the Matron of Honor, but she squeezed into it. It was an interesting afternoon and evening. The night before, Uncle Del and I had gone out for a Milk Shake and I spilled some of mine on my Coat. I had to take it to the cleaners (as it was the only one I had) and put in on a rush to get it clean before the Wedding. We made it but I wasn’t sure at the time of course. Another detail was the hall we were to have the reception in wasn’t cleaned when we got there so who do you suppose did it, the 4 of us. And, it that isn’t enough, there was no ice for the punch when all got set up sooo your Uncle went after it (before the wedding and held it up a half an hour) But all went well after that and we got “hitched”.

Another thing your Mom and I did together was our pregnancies. I proceeded to get P.G. right away (although we weren’t planning on that) so your Mom & I went to the Naval Hospital together. I can’t seem to remember where it was but we thought it was FAR away. It makes me laugh now as we are so spread out all over this area as a family, an hour drive is nothing any-more. Your Dad had gone to Japan by this time and I was living in an apartment by myself in LA. When Uncle Del couldn’t come home I’d go visit your Mom. I worked till the time we could get a place together in SanDiego which was August. (You came along the month before and your Mom was busy with her new “Baby Girl”)

I really treasure the time your Mom and I had together. She informed and guided me thru things I wasn’t too sure about. Our lives changed after I moved. I had a new way of life to get used to living in Naval Housing and your Mom had to be a Mom without your Dad for a while. But we both got thru it O.K. What an experience that was. But that is another story.

When we both were no longer Service Men’s Wives, and got back into close proximity again, we became close as couples and as you girls grew up you spent time in our home and we played lots of cards in your parent’s home. The only way I can remember any of these things now is when God prompts me. I look at old pictures but can’t conjure up the day they were taken. But life goes on and new people come into it but the one constant that I know of is God. He Never Changes. I’m so glad He brought your Parents into my life. They were neat people. Parents are a treasure among treasures. Yours and my Parents are gone but the memories linger on. We both have our own families now and memories to build with them. We have friends who come into our lives and they deposit memories as well.

Love to you and yours, Aunt Barbara

Mother's Day 2010

2010-05-09T19:58:00.005-04:00

Oh what a beautiful Spring day here in NC! I had a wonderful Mother's Day with Angela, Emily, Bryson and Gerald. We had a delicious steak lunch at Lonestar Steak House. Then back to my house for dessert. Emily made some type of chocolate truffle dessert. It had chocolate brownies, pudding and Snickers bars with whip cream between layers and on top. Heavenly!!! Then I opened my gifts. Two new Pandora charms from Emily....a kangaroo with baby and a orange (Bryson's favorite color) flower. From Angela I received the latest Nicholas Sparks novel The Last Song. Perfect gifts for me!!! I couldn't have asked for a nicer day! I felt truly loved!!

Remembering My Mom

2010-05-04T10:41:00.011-04:00

The memories today are so hard
to bear,
As sharp as if it was today
not years and years ago.

The pain today is so hurtful,
As if it was today
not years and years ago.

I cry out in rage for what
could have been, but
never will be.

I wish I could go back in time,
Feel the love, touch, caring,
smell, the Everything
That once was,
That never will be.

Life has played a dirty trick
on me.
Will I ever be able to forget?
No not forget.

Will the pain ever be
not as great
as if it was today
But years and years ago,

That I lost my mother!

Written July 4,1986 We were living in an apartment while waiting for our house to be built.
My mom died in 1968. I still think about her almost everyday. I was 15 years old and my brother Greg was 6 years old.

Am I Going Green? ~ It's a Start

2010-04-26T19:24:00.008-04:00

I must admit ~ please don't hate me ~ I have not been into recycling. So I am very proud of myself today because I bought my very first reuseable bags. I only got 2 because I didn't really know if I would like these or not. I had seen some different ones on the Internet and my daughter has another kind. Plus, I just really wasn't sure how many to get and I think I might want a variety. My daughter has one that her mother in law got at Trader Joe's that is so cute, so I think I will go try to find one like it. My bags are not that large but hold tons of groceries.

Everyone has to start somewhere ~ I am starting with pretty reuseable bags!!

When Will They Stop

2010-04-16T23:28:00.004-04:00

Does anyone know when these HOT FLASHES will END? I am so tired of them!! One minute I am freezing.......my husband likes it cool/cold in the house and then next I am burning up HOT!!

Maine 1995

2010-04-10T16:58:00.014-04:00

My husband and I were very fortunate that we have taken 2 or 3 month long vacations. I thought it would be fun ( for me anyway) to look back on these trips. I thought I would divide my posts by states. Gerald said 3 month long vacations.

Day 22 ~ Ellsworth Motel ~ Ellsworth, Maine ~ one double bed, no air conditioner, a fan and a small bathroom $47.08 AAA

Day 23 ~ Checked out

Acacia National Park on Mt. Desert Island $5.00. We drove the 27 mile loop road that connects Acadia's lakes, mountains, and seashore.

Sand Beach ~ partially formed of shell fragments. It's the only sand beach in Acadia National Park ~ all the others are pebbles and rock. On the right were large cliffs and boulders with seaweed and barnacles.

Thunder Hole ~ waves crashed into a narrow chasm and exploded in sound and spray.

Otter Cliff Otter Point, Fabbri ~ we stopped for a picnic lunch.

Our next stop was to look at a bridge made out of stone. All around it were millions of mussels and snails. It is chilly out.

Jordan Pond, Cadillac Mountain ~ at 1,530, it's the highest point on the US Atlantic seaboard. We drove to the top and then walked around the summit. The wind was blowing about 40mph. It was a dense fog with occasional clear spots. We could see Bar Harbor. Within 2 to 3 minutes conditions could be extremely foggy or clear.

Stopped back at Thunder Hole

Bucksport, Maine ~ $42.80 AAA 2 double beds, no air conditioner, a nice sized room.

Day 24 ~ #1 S ~ crossed a high suspension bridge over Penobscot River

Searsport ~ took a side street to view Penobscot Bay ~ crossed over Penobscot River ~ mountains and tress all around us

Cameden ~ a seaside town nestled beneath the Camden Hills. We walked a little and went in a wood shop called Once a Tree. Then we walked out to a harbor in Camden Bay and saw a fleet of schooners.

Gas $1.19 a gallon

Freeport ~ home of LL Bean ~ both sides of the streets were lined with stores. First we went to LL Bean which is open 24 hours 365 days a year. It had 4 levels and we spent a long time looking around. Then we went to the Levis store and looked around there. In the area there were more than 100 retail shops and name brand outlets. Stopped at a stand and got a hot dog. My hot dog was long and skinny and the buns were strange looking. The top and sides looked like regular bread folded in half and the bottom was like and end piece of bread.

Portland ~ We drove around the Back Cove on #1S. Portland is the largest city in Maine. We drove though part of the downtown area.

Saco, Maine ~ Eastview Motel ~ $58.85 AAA nice room with 1 double bed

Old Orchard Beach ~ shops and more shops and food places

Cascade Restaurant ~ I had a whole lobster, salad, roll and baked potato $9.95 Gerald had sirloin tips, salad, rice and a roll $9.95

Anthony, our waiter had to show me how to crack and get the meat out of the lobster. Messy! Had to were a bib!!

Day 25 ~ Cascade Restaurant $4.99 each for the buffet

Kennebunkport ~ We saw former President Bush's vacation retreat. It overlooked a rocky inlet. There were 3 different houses on the property and 1 was larger than the others. Two limos were in the driveway and about 3 other cars and also 2 bikes. While we were there we saw Barbara Bush and her dog walking. Gerald reminded me that Mrs. Bush waved to us!!

Qgunquit ~ beach ~ very small with thousands of people

York ~ beach ~ miles upon miles of cars parked at meters

Maine was absolutely breathtaking!!! I wish that I had been more descriptive in my journal. Look at the gas, food and hotel/motel prices. They sure have changed.

Happy Easter

2010-04-03T20:03:00.011-04:00

Past and Present ~ Me 1959 and my grandson 2010

My Anti - Depressant Drug of Choice

2010-03-27T14:56:00.005-04:00

My Grandson

Twelve Years Ago This Month

2010-03-13T19:38:00.008-05:00

A million times we've needed you
A million times we've cried.
If love alone could have saved you,
You never would have died.
In life, we loved you dear,
In death we love you still.
In our hearts you hold a place
No one will ever fill.
It broke our hearts to lose you
But you didn't go alone,
For a part of us went with you
The day God took you home.
God saw you getting tired
And getting better was not to be.
So He put His loving arms around you
And whispered, "come with Me."
With tear-filled eyes we watched you,
Suffer and fade away.
Although we loved you deeply
We could not make you stay.
A golden heart stopped beating,
Hard working hands at rest.
God broke our hearts to prove us
He only takes the best.
We thought of you with love today
But that is nothing new.
We thought about you yesterday
And the day before that too.
We think of you in silence,
We often speak your name.
All we have now are memories
And your picture in a frame.
Your memory is our keepsake
With which we will never part.
God has you in his keeping-
We have you in our hearts.
A million times we have missed you
A million times we have cried.
If love alone could have saved you
Then you never would have died.
It broke our hearts to lose you
But you didn't go alone.
For a part of us went with you
The day God took you home.

In Memory of my Dad

I wrote this in 1998 by taking several different things that I found in news papers and putting them together.

Bambi Gets Lost

2010-03-08T20:25:00.005-05:00

The simplest things really do make me happy!! When my girls were little I use to read to them every night and one of their favorite books was Bambi. I thought I had saved it but I never could find it and then about three weeks ago I saw what I thought was a book just like it on Maxine's book shelf. Wouldn't you know it......It was THE book....not mine but one exactly like mine that I can't find and Maxine said I could have it!! The minute I started reading it to Bryson, it was like I don't know all these special feelings came back!!! So thank you so very much Maxine for giving me Bambi Gets Lost!!!!!!

Look What Our New Camera Can Do

2010-03-01T20:31:00.004-05:00

Yesterday my husband came home and surprise me (he said Us) with a new camera!! Look what it can do!!! This "bad bird was caught in the act" eating the grass seed my husband put down last weekend. The distance was about 60 feet. I thought this was awesome until later on that night he came it with the Moon Picture. So how far away do you think this was?
Gerald said to be sure to enlarge it so you can see the detailed craters on the top. Also, check out the right side.....looks like a navel orange.

Week # 8 Healthy Eating and Working Out and a Wii Question

2010-02-28T11:32:00.009-05:00

This week I have done very well. I think this new program at work has helped give me more motivation. I lost 1. 8 this week!! I hope it shows the same tomorrow afternoon at my meeting. Update ~ 2 pounds

I didn't workout this week. I just can't seem to get in the mood. Maybe I need something different.

So I am thinking about getting something to help me get back into the workout mode.

I'm just not sure what.

I have heard about the Wii Dance and the Wii Biggest Looser ~ not sure if these are the right names. Have you heard of these? Which one is the best?

Update ~ My husband is so sweet he just came home with the Wii Dance! I will evaluate and let you know next week.

Here Yesterday! Gone Today!

2010-02-24T17:34:00.004-05:00

Before They Removed Our Trees

Removing

After but still not done

23 Years of Trees Gone in a Blink of a Eye. When we bought our property 23 years ago it was and old abandoned farm house with 1 tree on the front half and the rest was just dirt and shrubs. We spent days picking up glass and bottles because in the olden days some families buried their trash on their property. My husband spent weeks planting trees and landscaping our yard. Now because of an interstate coming near by, the state is having to reroute power lines. Guess where they are putting them?? Across our front yard and we could do absolutely nothing about this!! Yes, they gave us some money...but it was no where near enough to pay for all the work my husband put into our yard and plus now the tress are gone and our yard looks terrible!! I am trying not to cry. Oh and we still have to pay taxes on this land for the rest of our lives for the benefit of the Power Company! You may think you owe your land but you Don't!!!

Weeks # 6 and 7 Healthy Eating and Working Out

2010-02-22T18:23:00.004-05:00

Healthy Eating ~ Lost ~ 1.2 pounds for a total of 6.6 pounds. To say that I am disappointed would be an understatement! I was hoping for at least a 2 pound a week weight loss. Thought that by now I would have lost around 14 pounds.

Working Out ~ Crawling around on the floor and dancing with my grandson

New Plan ~ Just started a program offered through my work called Eat Smart, Move More, Weight Less. This program will teach me the skills needed to change my eating and physical activity patterns. It sounds very exciting!! I am sure that most of the information I already know but it will be presented in a different way. The class is every Monday for 15 weeks. Hopefully this will give me some motivation to do what I know I am suppose to do!!

Have you ever used this?

2010-02-19T08:08:00.002-05:00

For a year now we have been having a problem finding Wax Paper. Ever heard of it? Ever used it? The young girl at the grocery store....around 30.... told my husband she had never used Wax Paper and thought maybe they didn't make it anymore. We have use Wax Paper forever!! Mainly we use it at Christmas time when we are doing a lot of baking and this is when I would miss it the most. We also use it to cover stuff in the microwave and for various other things. So tell me do you use wax paper? If they stopped making it would you miss it?
Or are you like the young girl and have never use it?

If You Wait Long Enough

2010-02-14T17:52:00.005-05:00

Many many years ago, around 1975, I took a knitting class. My mom had taught me how to knit when I was a young girl. However, I didn't know how to cast on or bind off or anything else. So that's why I took the class. That was so long ago I don't remember much about it but I know I did enjoy taking the class and learned a lot. My project was an afghan with each square a different pattern. I choose the olive green and light green colors that were very popular during that time. Oh!! I couldn't wait to see how beautiful it would look laying over the back of my couch. I worked on it and worked on it and worked on it. I put it down for months and then I would pick it back up and work on it some more. Life goes on.... I did other things....different projects etc. but had put away my afghan and never finished it. One day my Aunt Nora and cousin Lynn from New Jersey came to visit and I was showing it to them. My aunt suggested that I just finish it and not keep making the squares...just finish it with as many as I had already made. So I did as she suggested and with the help of a co worker who sewed all 42 ....8x8 squares together, I had at last my finished afghan.!!! 30 years later and the colors were once more back in style. So I guess if you wait long enough most things truly do cycle back with time.

Week # 5 Healthy Eating and Working Out

2010-02-08T13:13:00.003-05:00

Wow! I have lost ~ are you ready ~ .2 What is that anyway? A friend said it was a 1/4 of a stick of butter. I thought I had done really well this week. Apparently not!!! I have NOT had chocolate and I have NOT pigged out. So what did I do wrong!!! I am HUNGRY!! So I have a plan now ~ I am going to (should have been doing the whole time) write down everything I eat and I am going to count my points. I am also going to increase my water intake (should have been doing the whole time).

Working Out~~~~~~ ZERO ~~~~~ I have to get back to using my Wii!!

Wish me luck!! I have never had this much trouble losing weight!!

Gone But Not Forgotten

2010-02-07T09:15:00.008-05:00

Around 21 years ago a good friend of my husbands died He died to young and would only be in his sixty's now. I have been thinking a lot about him lately......wish he could have lived to see our girls grow up and would love for him to meet our grandson, what would he be doing now. I wrote the following poem the year he died which was on Valentine's Day.

A friend has died!
But everyday we see him in countless ways:
His laughter, wit, and silly grin
All these things remind us of him.

Taken away so suddenly,
Was such a shock for you and me.
You were with him in the end
Always, forever, a caring friend.

You grieve so quietly, silently,
While I grieve for all the world to see.
Each of us in our own special way
Will never forget that tragic day.

Our life goes on; it seems the same,
The impact of this will always remain.
A friend has died,
But everyday we see him in countless ways.

Written in memory of Ed Arthur~February 14,1989

"Why" Because She Told Me No

2010-02-05T15:58:00.006-05:00

The other day we picked up our three year old Grandson from daycare. While I was zipping up his coat he looked over at a cute little blond hair, blue eyed girl and said "I don't like her". I said, "that's not nice, we are suppose to like everyone". My curiosity got the better of me so I asked him....Why? He said "because she makes me sad"......Picture my little grandson with a sad look on his face. So then I said, "Why does she make you sad?" His quick reply was "Because she told me NO!" Grandpa (my husband) who was standing next to us said "Get use to it buddy ...You will be hearing that for a long time"

Week #4 Eating Healthy and Working Out

2010-02-01T18:27:00.005-05:00

I am so excited!!! I lost 2 pounds this week! I am on a roll! This week I made very wise choices but I was by no means perfect. My eating will never be perfect but really who does eat perfect. Even my friend Linda who is a very healthy eater doesn't eat that way all the time. So I am just satisfied that I did the very best I could do this week.

Working Out ~ No I did not but I am really not all that upset about that. Some how I hurt my knee and I was having trouble just walking. This might sound strange but in the past I have lost more weight not working out until I've lost almost all of my weight.

A Day in the Snow

2010-01-31T21:04:00.005-05:00

Gramme(me) and Bryson

Bryson making a Snow Angel. No one knows where he learned that.

Sean and Bryson fell off the sled!

Emily, Sean, Bryson and Grandpa

We had a wonderful day in the snow with Sean, Emily and Bryson.

Snow 2010

2010-01-31T09:06:00.004-05:00

The First Snow of 2010

Bungee Jumping

2010-01-30T09:19:00.003-05:00

Bryson ~ 3 years old ~ had a fun time Bungee jumping at our local mall!

Beautiful Moon

2010-01-29T08:28:00.003-05:00

My husband took this picture through our trees last night. I just love pictures of the moon!

To Be 6 Again

2010-01-27T08:30:00.003-05:00

My daughter sent this to me today!

To Be 6 Again...
Ah yes!!!!!
To Be 6 Again...

A man was sitting on the edge of the bed, watching his wife, who was
looking at herself in the mirror. Since her birthday was not far off he
asked what she'd like to have for her birthday.
I'd like to be six again', she replied, still looking in the mirror
On the morning of her Birthday, he arose early, made
her a nice big bowl of
Lucky Charms, and then took her to Six Flags theme park.. What a
day! He put her on every ride in the park; the Death Slide, the Wall
of Fear, the Screaming Roller Coaster, everything there was.
Five hours later they staggered out of the theme park.
Her head was reeling and her stomach felt upside down. He then took her to a McDonald's where he ordered her a Happy Meal
with extra fries and a chocolate shake.
Then it was off to a movie, popcorn, a soda pop, and her favorite
candy, M&M's.
What a fabulous adventure!
Finally she wobbled home with her husband and collapsed into bed exhausted.
He leaned over his wife with a big smile and lovingly asked, 'Well Dear, what was it like being six again?'

Her eyes slowly opened and her expression suddenly changed.
'I meant my dress size.

The moral of the story: Even when a man is listening, he is gonna get it wrong.

Week #3 Eating Healthy and Working Out

2010-01-25T07:21:00.005-05:00

This past week I did pretty good eating healthy. I didn't pig out on chocolate on Wednesday...just walked right by....It called my name but I didn't answer!!! It felt so good!! My favorite time to eat is at night watching TV with Gerald. This has been going on for years. It all started when the girls were little, after putting them to bed, I would sit down and relax, turn on the TV, get a book ( use to read during the commercials) and EAT. So it's hard to break a 30+ year habit. Shoot I never even smoked that long! I did great this week with the night eating too. On the negative side....I had a milk shake (Gerald's fault, he wanted one) and two Italian dinners.

My working out went for 2 times last week to 1 time this week. This has to improve.

My scale problem has been solved!! I know lots of people don't use them but I have to. My daughter Angela email me a consumer report on scales so I went out to Target and bought the top rated one with my Christmas money and it wasn't even that expensive. Under $30. It is digital which I use to not like but now I do. So I will only get on it once a week and only one time.

Since I got the new scale........I am really not sure about weight loss this week. It's like starting over. According to the New scale I have gained 1 pound from last week but have lost 3 all together. It's hard to say......don't think I gained but I am sure I didn't lose anything either.

This is a new day and new week and all I can do is move forward and do the best that I can!!!!

Week #2 Eating Healthy and Working Out

2010-01-18T10:42:00.008-05:00

How to start??!!! This week I didn't do as well as I did last week with eating healthy or working out. I only worked out with the Wii 2 times. I have no excuse .........just didn't! Eating I did OK. I had a few slip ups here and there. Well I did have a major major chocolate slip up big time on Wednesday. This week I have got to get serious and do what I know I am suppose to do. I can do it, I've done this before!! I don't know what to do first... it's never been this hard before. Should I just do one thing next week....like increase my workout, my water, or really watch my eating ( maybe do weight watchers points ) or should I try to do all 3. Yes!! that's what I will do...I will do all 3!!! According to my scale (who is trying to drive me crazy, I think) I lost 1 pound but if I get on it again then I lost 0 pounds and then when I get on it again I have gained. Maybe it's just time to get a new scale!!

I will do better next week!!!

Week #1 Eating Healthy and Working Out

2010-01-11T17:29:00.007-05:00

This week was just OK. According to the Wii Fit ( this afternoon), I have lost 2.5 pounds and according to my scale, I have lost 3 pounds. I bet I got on and off the scale 10 times this morning. I finally had to give up or I was going to be late for work. Every time I got on it, it weighed me something different. Even after I hit it several times, it still didn't cooperate!! I think I am going to buy a new one.
This week I ate pretty good and exercised 3 days.

I hate to exercise...It doesn't matter how much I tell myself I love the Wii Fit and I do, I still don't like to exercise.

My weight lose is not what I expected for my first week. Usually I lose more. I am getting older, I tell myself, so I just should be thankful that I lost what I did.

I am sick of this already.

Really I am trying to have a positive attitude.

ALL MY CARS

2010-01-11T05:00:00.002-05:00

The very first car I owned was a White 1970 Ford Mustang Fastback, bought and paid for with my own money. I was 17 years old and was working at the Telephone Company. After buying shoes, purses and clothes, I saved almost every cent I made. That was many many years ago and I have a terrible memory so bare with me. But the way I remember it: my dad and Maxine went to the Ford Dealership and looked at cars and then came back and said they found two...can't remember what the other one was but anyway I picked the Mustang. I don't have a scanner but I am going to try to take a picture of a picture and post it. Oh did I mention that I didn't have my drivers license when I bought it and didn't get my license until about 3 months later. My car payments were $88. a month for 3 years, I think.

We traded that Mustang in for a Chev Station Wagon in 1973.

Then we bought a Honda Civic, Ford Tempo, a Mazda, a Saturn, another Saturn in Baltimore, Md because we wrecked the first one running over a medium trying to get gas on the way to my 2nd cousins wedding. Because we needed a big trunk for the many trips we planned on taking over the next several years we bought a Dodge Intrepid which I still have just sitting in the yard.
My current car is a Honda CRV. I couldn't decide between the Honda Accord or the CRV, and after driving both, I just liked the way the CRV felt and drove. I also rode in the back seat of both and the CRV was the winner hands down. It doesn't have the power of the Intrepid but I sure like the feel of being up higher. I can slide out of the seats rather than pulling and sometimes crawling out of the lower Intrepid.

Interestiong Tid-Bit: First Car--- Ford Mustang----$2,000.

Last Car----Honda CRV--$27,500.
What a difference time makes in the cost of a car.

Because of the many trips we made touring the US and with no car problems I think, I would have to say the Intrepid is my fovorite. I have many wonderful memories of places and people I met while driving this car.

Can't judge the CRV yet as I haven't had it long enough to fairly judge it.