Grandmas are just antique little girls

2010-10-26T17:35:00.000-07:00

This Oct 26th is our last night at Shadow Ridge RV Park in Ajo, Arizona. Tomorrow we will drive to Tucson and be parking our motor home at the Border Patrol station for a few days while we go to the Parent's Retreat this next weekend at Little Rock Arkansas. We will fly back to Tucson and then park at the Rincon Country West RV park which is close to Celia's home.

Tomorrow is also your birthday, Angie Lou. Hope yours is a good day there in Atlanta, and that the midwest weather isn't going to hit where you live. I will try to keep writing on this blog, as that was what you requested for your birthday gift.

Right now it is 5:45 and I am sitting on a picnic table bench outside our motorhome in my sleeveless white T shirt. The sun just went down and the sunset is always awesome here in Ajo.

Here there is the crunch of gravel when people walk, and blue sky days. We have met people who used to winter in Mexico but are staying at this park instead this year. Today we went to the dollar store, and had lunch at the little cafe where we all ate when we were here 4 years ago.
We bought some postcards at the pharmacy in downtown Ajo and stamps at the post office, and I went into the library here awhile.
We went to the BP station again today and talked with Shannon McCormick. The PAIC Jack Jeffreys gave Terry a summer Border Patrol hat. We also went back to Napa auto parts and picked up the valve for the hot water heater for the motorhome, and talked with Alex Harper again. He said he would come see us tonight where we are parked.

So, I have washed clothes and they are finishing drying hanging up. In a little bit, I will finish packing the suitcase for our Little Rock trip, so it will be ready for when we fly out on the 28th.
We drove by Celia and David's house but it is locked up and Celia couldn't come over while we were here with the key, but I did want to go inside, just to see. I feel you girls with me because we were all here together. And of course I feel David. He is here, but not here. I feel he would have moved on from Ajo eventually and had another position in the BP as teaching Spanish or something similiar.

I have taken some pictures and will share as soon as I can.... I miss knowing exactly what to do to put pictures from my camera to the facebook..... I know you showed me once, Katrina. Tell me again, ok? I know it is simple, but I have to keep doing something and make it a habit. (I miss you, Tim) :)
Stephanie, I read your blog about Sophia's room, and it was cute.

How are Terry and I getting along? I let him know when I need more space and he thinks I am putting him down a lot, but I am standing up so I can breathe, and even though his name if he were an Indian would have been "Loudly Talks a Lot" I get my words in there. He wonders why we argue so much, and he has no clue. But you all knew his personality already. Mostly we are good friends and work well together.

Onward and upward.... Will write more regarding Parent's Retreat when we return to Tucson. I am not taking the laptop with me there.
Love to all of you, my special family. I want to see McKenna, Jimmy with glasses, and hug my Tucker. I miss the grandbabies.... My cell phone still works, guys; you can call me, too. I know you miss me and that helps when I miss you too. But the sunshine is nice at least.
Mom, Grandma, and GGmaK

2010-10-17T10:28:00.000-07:00

Hi from San Diego, Sunday Oct 17

Missing my family at home. At least I can get online now. We are safe and secure at Terry's cousin Bill Hawkins (and Jeanette) home. Angie, how are you doing? email me at karenjudithreed@gmail.com as the msn email is no longer accessible for more than a few minutes at a time. Jimmy, you will like your glasses, especially when you can actually 'see' things.

I love you all. k

2010-10-12T10:10:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone
We are leaving Joann's and heading towards Pamona CA today. In just a few hours we will be going over the mountains. Had a Wonderful visit here in Myrtle Creek and will be coming back; hey, if you ever can't find me, look here first.
Gotta go; catch you later..

2010-09-26T21:14:00.000-07:00

Getting ready to head South, we went tonight to spend an evening with Terry's daughter and was with her little family for a while. Their little Emma is so sweet; one year old and walking and almost talking, too. Tomorrow we take his mother out for lunch.. Just spending some time and not really saying 'goodbye' before we leave on Oct 8.

Terry has double checked the tires on the MH. He has made sure the tow dolly fits right, and the wiring hooked up right. He already has put the mud flap on the back of the MH. We are beginning to pack. But before that, I will go to Portland for a few days, for book club(s), and to hug my little grandchildren there. That is the hardest part to leave for months at a time.

My weekend in Tucson was good, and the skies were so blue all the time. I loved being with the two grandsons there, too.
I almost forgot how to get into my blogspot, so will have to do it more often.
Good night for now..... ZZZZZZZzzzzzzzz

2010-09-14T17:59:00.000-07:00

Today Lolly said "Be Safe" when I go to help Celia with the boys this next weekend; leaving in the morning at 6am. Will be back the eve of the 21st. Well, OK I will be careful, and God will keep me safe for you.

Today Ron downloaded the Mobile Broadbend on my laptop, so that is done. What a guy.

So if I make sure Skype is automatically available when I turn on the laptop, and also fix my phone so I can get on facebook and yak or whatever then I should be all set.

Terry changed the oil in the car and the motor home today. He has put a stone guard mud flap on the back of the motor home, and fixed the bumper. When I get back from AZ we will begin to 'pack' the MH. I will have a week to do that before book club. Then I bring the car back so it can be put on the tow dolly. On October 7, Dish Network is shutting off, Refuse stopped, , Newspaper too,,,,,, Four neighbors and one friend will be watching the house, watering my plants and picking up my mail and forwarding what needs to be.. Things are lining up for the adventure. I may as well look forward to it, because it is beginning to h.a.p.p.e.n., hummmm.
Love, Ma

2010-09-12T13:21:00.000-07:00

Yesterday we went to Verizon and set up wireless Mobil Broadbend so we can be able to use the laptop Anywhere there is cell phone coverage.

2010-09-11T18:43:00.000-07:00

Saturday Sept. 11

A day of remembering. Lifes were changed that day.

I was reading the things I wrote back in 2006 on this blog; how things were before David had his accident and all our lives here were changed.

Three years of not writing... Working my way through missing my son. I knew my son. I miss his wit and his knowledge. He had a capacity for understanding me, that no one else besides my girls have had. The way we could look across the room and know what we were thinking, for instance.

A mother has held that man when he was a little boy, and kissed his hurts away. Seen his laughter, seen him grow. Seen him sing in the Chamber Choir in Ashland, and took square dancing lessons with him... He worked his way through having had cancer when he was 17. He quit smoking, he had a family and loved his children....

David once said that Life is energy. Energy in a body. Life, Soul - they are energy that make the body move, feel, love, hurt, etc. David told Celia that death didn't matter, it was only a change of place for the energy .... and he put himself as an example like this.... "when I die, that will only mean that the energy has left my body - - - but my energy will continue to live, in the surroundings, anywhere that energy wants to go, it will be there. The wind is energy; love is energy.... a tree is full of energy. I have energy, I am alive, but when my body loses that energy, it will only be my body going to dust. I will still be around."

I miss you David. I knew your principles, your feelings, your standards. I will love you always. I know you would want me to remember you, but not grieve deeply forever. You would want me to be proud of you, and I am. You taught me to live in the moment, love my life, and take care of myself.

OK that said, this blog is going to be about my going down South for this winter. Probably I should have just created a whole new blog, but I didn't. This is for you, my girls, who have asked me to write often and keep in touch this way........ I Shall Return. I'll be Back. Let us just face this adventure together, and not get dramatic... We have Skype too, you know.
Mother

2010-09-10T23:46:00.000-07:00

I am 'creating' this blog again, to record this first year as snow-bird-ing. Mainly to let my girls know what I am doing on the days we are discovering new adventures.. And as a birthday gift for you, Angie. To keep in touch, and also recording what & where we are doing. To be able to share my love this way. And when I miss you, A, Lolly, and Kass, I will write more. I don't see how this will work, to be away from you girls for half the year. And the grandbabies.... ooooh this is worse than the first day of school. I am not going to cry; I am going to go into this with anticipation of Doing it for the first time. And the added bonus of getting away from the northern wetness for these arthritic bones.

Now, after saying all this, :) , and getting set back up, I am now going to go to bed. It is after all, Midnight. Will add more tomorrow I reckon. me

2007-04-23T23:30:00.000-07:00

Two things:
I have just been on the Tigard Knitting Guild Shop Hop, and it was a wonderful fun time! I think knitters, at least this group, are some of the happiest people in the world. I sure met some nice girls and it was especially fun to have my daughter Katrina among those ... um motivated shoppers. :)

Second, we are beginning to prepare for the National Police Week which takes place in Washington DC in a few weeks. The Memorial will be awesome, I know. The Border Patrol people which we have met as a family, are also some of the nicest people who are drawn together in spirit and understanding. I am glad my son was able to be a part of that friendship and comaraderie. It is hard to express what I mean by that, yet they have also become part of my family.

That's it for now; just wanted to check in. FINALLY figured how to establish this new blogger change. Oh, and one more bit of happy news; my granddaughter Stephanie has gleefully announced her Engagement. She is floating on clouds up there around 9 or 10.

bye GrandmaK

2007-02-20T15:50:00.000-08:00

Grandmas are just antique little girls

"Hold Us Up, Lord"

Lord, we know You're always busy,
For You've many things to do,
But when sorrow overcomes us,
Well, we need to talk to You.
For I've lost
someone precious,
And they're with You
there above,
And it's someone
that we needed,
And it's someone
that we love.

We are feeling lost and all alone,
And though we do believe,
We need You, Lord, to hold us up,
To help us while we grieve.
Please give us strength and courage, Lord,
To bear what we must bear,
And nudge us when our faith is weak
To remind us You are there.

Give us hope for our tomorrows,
Tell us life will still go on,
Show us, Lord, that all this darkness
Will be followed by the dawn.
You have led us through so many things,
You've pulled us through before,
Hold us up, Lord, till we're through this
And we are strong once more.
--Linda Elrod--

In Memory of my Son,
Border Patrol Agent David N. Webb Jr.
End of Watch November 3, 2006
Til we meet again. I love you. Mom

2006-10-21T13:08:00.000-07:00

Grandmas are just antique little girls

Weekends are nice for this Grandma. Highlights of it are going grocery shopping with hubby; somehow we look forward to it like it is a date, teehee. I like him a lot, and with all the bumps in the road, he seems to always make it be fine. Appreciated. Wanted. Welcome. Loved. Now how is a person supposed to function in that kind of atmosphere? Well, I hold a mirror up and it all shines right back onto him. Even when he gets on my nerves sometimes we still have this little world we have created for ourselves, with the help, I am sure, of God.

I have done lots of things in my different stages of life. It is hard sometimes to believe I am as old as my age, since I still feel like a 20 year old inside. So there is something to the adage that Grandmas are just antique little girls. I relate to all ages, because I have been all ages. haha. That seems funny to say.

This weekend hubby has a reprieve from crawling under the house to insulate the recently installed water pipes, because his neck has made it so he hasn't been able to get much sleep at nights for over a week. His chiropractor said it wasn't a good idea to do it today. And then last night he slept through for once, which was nice. He himself didn't wake up hurting like he usually has been, but his snoring woke me several times. But what's a grandma to do. He snored through two doors too, when I take to the other bedroom. But I still love the guy.

I finished the baby quilt for Hubby's daughter, due in December. The blanket is beautiful, and fit for a little prince. It will be a car seat blanket for the little one though, instead of a crib blanket. I only had two of the discontinued Bernat Lulu yarn of that color. I will take it to her when we go there for dinner Nov 4th. I'm sure she will like it and use it.
I have so many ideas for the next project, but haven't decided which one I will tackle next. My knitting is just the basic stitch but still fun for me to do. My Mother used to knit all the time, crochet, and embroider. I first tried to knit when I was 10 years old or so, and I would do it with nails and string, trying to be like my Mother. I couldn't get past the second row. But she did get me started on sewing blocks for baby blankets, and later on when I was a teenager I made quilts for my hope chest, and embroidered pillow slips, etc.

I don't do horoscopes, but when I signed in online today, the thing was right in front of my eyes saying that a friend might be not telling me a truth today, thinking they would be protecting me. For me to learn the truth myself. Now those zodiac things are something I don't base my days or my thinking on. Actually, any of them could probably fit Anybody, if you know what I mean. But I got to thinking about it. And I think I prefer knowing the truth of a matter. Then could make rational decisions. Being shielded is nice, but it is also nice to know what you are being shielded from. No, tell me the truth, and let me deal with it, or even help me deal with it, please.
That may be the secret to a good marriage, or my marriage anyway. We know what we are up against, and hand in hand face it together. There's a comradere that comes with it. Even when we argue about it, we are kind, considering each other; loving each other through it. I know that God knows what we are going through, and that He cares, and He loves me, and that bases my decisions.
And I appreciate the life God has given to me, and don't take things for granted.
Just wanted to check in, to keep posting on the blog. I will sign off before I erase everything. K

2006-10-19T12:36:00.000-07:00

Grandmas are just antique little girls

I am getting ready to head out to volunter today at Life Care Thrift center, from 2pm - 6pm. It may be a Thursday thing from now on. I will be working with one of the girls I am used to teaming up with at work, too. That is good, because we do well together.
On the way, will mail a sm. package to #1 birthday girl. That feels good.
I had a good day yesterday. Colored my hair, made cookies, mopped the pretty kitchen floor. Then went to the Library, which is always nice, then to Costco for prescriptions, then to Safeway. Got gas in the car. Why does that qualify for a good day I wonder, but it did. I try to accomplish something each day.
Today it struck me as funny that I ate a candy bar while sitting on the couch watching the "Biggest Loser" on Tivo. So at least after that I went out and walked a little bit.
And, after this weekend of hubby putting insulation on the new plumbing underneath the house, next week I will get to go hug some little rug rats again, which is what life is about, and That is what really makes me happy. Jamba Juice, here I come!! Haha. But for now, I gotta scoot out the door. Don't fall over that I posted so soon again. :) me

2006-10-13T20:56:00.000-07:00

Grandmas are just antique little girls

I have been Tagged by Topekatrina to list 5 wierd things about me. Happy Friday the 13th!

1. Well, I have a wierd bunion on my right foot. My Grandma had it, my Mom had it (both of them had to have surgery on it). But my girls didn't get it, so at least it stops with me.

2. There's this Scorpio thing about me; I think about death a lot. Not horribly; but sort of live each day like it could be my last.

3. Applesauce. I like it cold. Is that weird? Or wierd that my hubby likes it served hot, with wheat thins on it. And I can't spell weird.

4. Empathy? Is it weird that I always look for the reason why people say or do things? Always. Or sort of 6th sense when I can feel that a car will pull in front of me, and then it does. Happens all the time.

5. and lastly; Don't shut the door on me. Ooooooo Don't shut me in. Leave my door open, please. I'm not talking front doors to the house or car doors. Just if I leave my bedroom door open, don't come and shut it, Ever. Isn't that weird enough for you?

It has been so long since I posted. I took pictures of the kitchen cabinets, and they look fine. I just haven't figured how to post the pictures on my blog. Maybe somehow daughter #3 will help me with it someday when I am down there visiting. Now my neighbor thinks I am so lucky because the kitchen and carpeting look so nice in here, and I drive a nicer car than she does. And that is a new feeling for me. I don't feel like a snob, but I do know I have it better than some people (or even better than I ever had before); I love taking hot showers and feeling good that we have water and electricity. I don't think I ever could take things like that for granted.
Because I am still that country girl that carried water from the creek when I was growing up, and used the outhouse (yes, you heard right). The teenager with no money to buy a nice dress for the formal. The young mother that wished for Christmas on year just a roll of toilet paper and a loaf of bread. The mother that couldn't buy nice clothes or toys for her kids. I could go on and on, but you get the picture.
Things are going fine here. My Dad is down South where the sunshine is for the winter again. Although it hasn't really started raining here yet. I still play games on the computer. I still knit. We just had a 90th birthday party for my husband's mother last night. I get out walking more; still need to lose some weight. Still love my kids and grandkids. Our lives are the same as others, just a little different.
My joys are my family. My life is good.
I will sign off for now, and try to post more often. Take care, and behave yourself. *smile*

2006-07-27T20:36:00.000-07:00

I have been Tagged:

A) Name Four Jobs You have had in your life:
Secretary for Dept. of Veterans Affairs (now I don't spell well)
Waitress; and Post Office worker in automation
Material Handler for Nile Spice Soups
Statement Prep Clerk

B) Four Movies I would watch over and over;
Good As It Gets
Dances with Wolves
Princes Bride
Pocohantus; Little Mermaid with my grandkids

C) Four (yea, right) places you have lived beside where you live now:
Topeka Kansas
Long Beach, Calif
Tauntan, Mass
Plains, Montana and Crossett, Arkansas
Roseburg, Coos Bay, and Medford Oregon

D) Four TV Programs you like to watch:
Katrina got me started on American Idol, Apprentice, Starting Over, Amazing Race, and Survivor etc, etc

E) Four Places I have been on Vacation:
Chicago
Grand Canyon
Leon, Mexico
Caribbean cruise; Jamaica, Grand Caymans, Cozumel (Mayan ruins) super nice

F) Websites I visit daily
Email every day
blogs sometimes
Keybank
games

G) Four of my Favorite Foods:
Steak and sliced tomatos
baked potato
clam chowder
Popcorn
stir fry, chicken salad

H) Four places I would rather be right now than here
Here is where I want to be
Visiting my kids Portland OR
Chicago, IL Ajo, AZ

I) The four friends I think will respond
they already have, Katrina, Tim, Steph
Maybe Sandy?

2006-07-26T21:03:00.000-07:00

2006-07-21T22:55:00.000-07:00

One of my Happiest Moments; March Birthdays celebration at Melting Pot

I am learning how to put pictures on my blog tonight, so chose this one to begin with. These are my two March birthday girls; (I have three girls) aren't they beautiful (I think so). We had fondue at the Melting Pot and it was a perfect night when all the stars align or something.

I have a sink now, in my new kitchen. I will post a few pictures soon when I get the hang of this thing. Oh, and also was able to post my 'ribbon' for winning one of the movie title contest! Aren't I fabulous? Can I get an 'amen'? haha. Love and kisses, XOXOXOX

2006-06-30T08:00:00.000-07:00

Grandmas are just antique little girls
I still don't have a kitchen yet. The sink isn't in; no counter tops. Cabinets are going in slowly, but no shelves in them yet to put the bagged up items away. I can still fix supper by getting the pans from the hall closet, water from the laundry room sink, and silverware from the temporary desk in the living room. At least now the refrigerator is in from the garage.

Am I complaining? I think I did this morning. Hubby asked for fried chicken and potato salad for dinner tonight. Men are wonderful characters who think that cooks can come up with the same great suppers offered in the past (with everything close at hand.) get what I am saying? What I said was "I DON'T HAVE A KITCHEN"

He apologized for taking so long to put the cabinets in. Granted, my kitchen will look awesome when it is finished, and we could update to nicer cabinets, (since he decided we could by saving money by taking the old ones down and installing the new himself). Also considering he hurt his back last week while constructing the base for the sink cabinets, But, it is taking So Long. He said it was worse last week, and I said "No, Last week I was in Heaven." (Chicago, you understand).

Well, he will still get his chicken and potato salad, and I feel bad for complaining (I was trying so hard not to). He will go to the chiropractor again this afternoon, and the cabinets will get finished this weekend, hopefully with help from his son. And good news is that the carpeting will be layed tomorrow, too, so we can finally bring the couch back inside and not be sitting on computer chairs to watch TV at night. (And then I can hopefully have a kitchen sink to wash dishes in again).

It will be so worth it all is what people are so kindly telling me. I'm sure it will. Meanwhile, back to painting my walls.......
Catch you later, Have a good day..... giggle

2006-05-23T09:30:00.000-07:00

Grandmas are just antique little girls

I have been Tagged by Topekatrina:
The Subject is to list Five Children's books you read from ages 10 - 14 that you enjoyed and remembered the most.

It caught my attention and triggered my memories and imagination, and sent me down a happy path for a while. Here are some of the books that made me Me as I was growing up.

1. "The Contented Little Pussy-Cat" I don't know the author of that children's book, and I would love to have a copy of it now, because I carried that book around with me everywhere. I would trace the pictures, and read it over and over. It was this story about a cat that was contented and the other animals were wondering why he was. When I was growing up, I was such a slow reader; now I read all the time.

2. The Raggedy Ann and Andy series of comic books. I don't know where mother got them from, but she knew how much I cherished and looked forward to these. I can still close my eyes and remember these "Magic words of poof-poof piffles; make me just as small as Sniffles." haha We lived out in the country in a house that Dad built during this time. Thank you Topekatrina, for taking me back to that time.

3. "Call of the Wild" by Jack Wilder? Remember, I am a Grandma now. This wonderful book was read to us by our teacher during the rest period at shcool. Ah, the sweetness of looking forward to a chapter of this book. About a wolf. And I did so relate to nature, and this wolf. The school was a country school and it was one room and there were several grades in the one room, and yes, a wood stove. All that, and the book, too. Such cherished moments, this one.

4. "Pollyanna" series. OK, now I am older and still in the country, and still a slow reader. Does anyone else out there know about the Pollyanna series books? They came out about the same time as "The Bobsey Twins" series (which we read, too), and "Heidi" but Pollyanna was my heroine for a long long time. Pollyanna who would find good in everything.

5. "Song of Years" by Bess Streeter Aldrich. Impressionable 14 years old, and reading this book. This book is part of me and always will be. I Was Suzanna. I Was there. Can't say enough about this book. Bess Aldrich also wrote "Spring Came on Forever" and this got me started on really reading for pleasure. "Little House on the Prairie" series that I read and loved (was no Micheal Landon TV series then) and I named my Laura after this one. "Song of Years" forever stays with me, though.

Can I mention another? Read "The Star Beast" by Robert Heinlein. Everybody should get to know Lummox.
Once again, Thank You to Topekatrina for taking me down this memories lane path. Happy reading, y'all!!! And now, guess what! You have been tagged!!! That is how this works!

2006-04-11T07:33:00.000-07:00

I am excited that the Navigation System that Angel helped me order when she was here, came yesterday!!! Not that I needed it, but I watched it work in her car when we were in Shikaka last year, and decided that one day I would have one. Not thinking it would be so soon, but hey. This says one can use it in Europe too. Haha.

I called the Home Insurance company, for them to come and look at our flooring. I guess that is why we pay insurance each month, right? It was required to have it, but I never thought I would call them and have them come and do a look-see.

Dad will go back to his home base on the 25th, and I will go with my brother and wife with Dad to his Doctor appointment this time. Dad has managed to adapt to living three different houses so far since January, and there will be a fourth when he goes back, because they are moving to a smaller unit where Dad will have his own room. That would be a hard adjustment for anybody if you ask me. Learning all over again where the silverware drawer is and all that.
He will come visit with us again even if he only stays a week this next time. He talks about going to see his brother who lives in another State up North. He wants to drive there, oh no. I needed this time with him. He is getting tireder and tireder every day, and walks with pain. He can't figure why he has lived this long, he says. Each day is a take it as it comes day. But it has been nice having him here; his companionship, and ornery little ways. :)

My little garden spot is ready, and it is a happy little place. With the sunshine coming every now and then lately, I sit on the deck and read, and just look at it with fondness.
Every day I try to do something useful that shows, or accomplish a project. We live far enough from 'town' that I try to have three reasons for going anywhere when I head out, too.
I haven't done jigsaw puzzles since Dad has been here, because his favorite place to sit is at the card table I have set up. I do get on the computer at times and play some games. Is that odd for a grandma to do? I hope not. Hey, I am just an antique little girl, after all.
Have a nice day; Make it a nice day, GmaKMother&Daughter

2006-04-10T14:03:00.000-07:00

Grandmas are just antique little girls

2006-04-08T21:02:00.000-07:00

Today is my brother's birthday, April 8. He called and talked to Dad and had good news for him, that the sale of his (Dad's) house went through. What a good gift to us all; Dad said some of us got up on the right side of the bed today.

I have a new definition of love today. It is real love when my family stays visiting me in spite of my dear opinionated & bossy husband, who doesn't even See that he tends to run people away from me by being so himself. Yet we are a package deal, and I say this with tears in my eyes. Dad says he has me always in his pocket, and he will come again and stay maybe a week the next time. And my husband doesn't even have a clue. As I say this with tears in my eyes.

2006-04-07T14:57:00.000-07:00

I used to keep a journal. Sometimes I wish I still did. I stopped, because it seemed that most every day was the same. Nice, even, routine, calm, cared for, content, maybe even boring to others. Why write what you had for supper and what TV programs you watched that night? Anyway, .... I like my life. I like my home. I love my kids and grandkids, and my husband. And usually lead a stress-free life, which I thoroughly enjoy. And, I don't take it for granted, Ever.
But we have been having some difference lately. First of all, my Dad has come to visit for a month. I enjoy having him here. He is still getting through the grief of losing Lyn a few months ago. He can talk about it now, at least. Along with the joy of his being here is the realization that he needs care now that he is 86. I see his pain when he walks. I worry when he oversleeps, and keep checking to see if he is still ok, without 'hovering'. He wants to be independant, yet acknowledges that he doesn't want to live Alone anymore. Between my brother & wife, and my husband and me, he won't have to be, either. I am thankful for this time with him.
Last weekend my knitting daughter and husband the plumber, came up for a working visit. (He and hubby put in all new up to standard pipe under the house). Since Angel from Shikaka came too, and the Middle daughter & her girls were here, we had a happy houseful. I loved the kids running around. All my girls with me, which was fun and just plain nice. Well, not so plain - very very nice is more like it. Words can't explain; my heart was Full....
Well, then last Tuesday night I woke up to hearing a noise that didn't sound quite right. I got up at 2am and went towards the sound, and ended up standing in 2 inches of water in my kitchen! Hubby went outside and shut the water off. The pipe under the sink had been put in without that little white washer thingy, and the pressure made it gush out. We spent two hours first dipping the water up using dustpan for scoop, and then the towel thing, and then the wet vacumn. We had a few extra fittings, so got the one with the white washer thingy put back on, and all is well. Hubby and I make a good team. And we laughed as we scooped. And Dad never even woke up!! Haha.
So now, we still have two fans going to help dry out the carpeting. The next day, hubby did the wet vacumn again and got as much as he could. We figure another day with the fans should do it. I can walk on it and not get my socks wet now, but we know the padding underneath is still damp, how could it not be. Good thing we haven't replaced the carpeting yet. That is our next big thing to do on our list.) Dad was all for tearing up the carpeting and blowing underneath it. I thought it was a great idea, but hubby said no to that, so we walk around fans nowadays.
The other day I backed out of the garage, and felt something, and realized I had backed into my Dad's car parked in the driveway. (Get this.... it was our new white car. Not the old one. Of course.) In dread, I of course got out and checked the damage, fully expecting to see both our cars wrecked. What I found was that I had connected with Dad's sideview mirror and left a big black streak 2' wide and about 4 feet long on my new car's back fender. Dad's car wasn't hurt at all. The mirror wasn't even bent. I had to go on to work, so shakily went on in. Got off at noon to have lunch with Dad here, and then went out and began to wash the cars. And, Lo!! the black on my car was rubber, instead of a scratch!!! And, it came off!!!! Dad came outside and I told him what I had done, and he helped me finish washing the cars, and then of course, Moved his car out to the front of the house (away from my haphazard driving). And when hubby came home and saw what I had done and told me to Look into both side mirrors as well as the rearview mirror, and blah blah blah, I came inside the house, and my Daddy said "I still love you". O how sweet that was.
Today Dad got up tired and had breakfast. I could tell that his back was hurting. He went back to bed, and is still sleeping. We had a big day yesterday; he was sorting nails and screws in the garage, a project that gives him something to do. I roto-tillered my little garden spot while he was working. We had good companionship, and a nice day, but it wore him out. I went today and got him some nice pants and shirt to wear to church Sunday; he can try them on when he gets up. I am glad for these few weeks with him.
Dad likes my cooking and looks forward to evening meals. So Nice for me, too.
And today, Topekagirl is missing her sister, and I am holding her in my heart too. Shikaka, let us know when you get home, and keep us in your heart, too. I love you all so very much.
I will close with a tidbit of information that came over the internet. It was talking about Peroxide. Did you know that one capful held in your mouth for 10 minutes daily, then spit it out, helps make your teeth whiter? Gets rid of germs, too. Soak your toothbrush in a cup of peroxide to keep it free from germs. You can clean your counters and table tops with peroxide to kill germs and leave a fresh smell. Simply put a little on your dishrag when you wipe, or spray it on the counters. After rinsing off your wooden cutting board, put peroxide on it to kill salmonella and other bacteria. You can add a cup of peroxide instead of bleach to a load of whites in your laundry to whiten them. Of course it is good for taking blood stain out of clothing. And great for unstopping ears. Just let a few drops drip in ear, then turn head and blot with a kleenex. Neat, huh.
Have a nice day, you all. Love and Kisses, Mom

2006-01-22T14:14:00.000-08:00

One day I will post a picture of a few quilts I have made, and the little stuffed animals (which I sewed this week for the grandkids while visiting in Arizona;) That is, when I figure how to put pictures onto this blog. Which seems to elude me right now.

Back from a week in the Sunshine. It was so bright and Nice. I would go outside just to soak some in. I could even see Stars at night!!!! No clouds. And do you know what is funny? When I was there I hardly saw any people outside. I asked why was that and was told that it was Winter for them. Here this Pacific NW girl (me) was out without sweater and enjoying it all. Sigh. Well, I guess it does get Hot there in the summer; around 115 degrees or more, and then the same people stay in their houses then, too, because it is so hot. hahaha That is why I visit this time of the year.
We made it to Yuma to look up my Pa, and it was good seeing him riding around in his little golf cart, and sharing our cup of coffee. His whole life has changed now. I told him to enjoy his stay and the sunshine while he was there. My brother and his wife are heading back to the Pac NW in April, so I will see him again then.
I sat in the sunshine on the plane back home. I could tell when we were heading down from the clouds to land, because a Blanket of thick clouds covered us and it was considerably darker all of a sudden. And sure enough, it sprinkled on the way to the house. Sigh. But back to the air that you can breathe, and to our pellet stove. And I had that week of Sunshine.

I am still wearing my Senior Citizen disguise. The one that when people look at you, they don't See you. It works even in Arizona. Amazing. Just not with grandkids and family.

I am pleased to report that the little yellow canary is growing some fuzz around her bald little neck and back of head. See why you don't give up on disguises?

To Angel from Shikaka: no, things don't just Fall off. They hang on. Emphasis on the Hang. haha It is interesting when your kids talk about getting older. Part of the Grandma thing, I guess. I am still 19 in my head. Just an 'antique' little girl. Stick around awhile, and you will know what I am talking about, peoples. To Topeka, who was glad to have me Closer: Thanks for trying to help me with pictures for the blog; I will keep trying. I love it that you love me. I Love my girls a Lot. (Can you tell?) Probably. I enjoy the grandkids' blogs; they are fun to read.

No jokes this time. Just checking in, and saying Hi. Luv2ReadGrandma

2006-01-10T14:48:00.000-08:00

I am still trying to figure out where I would go for one day that I could not return from. Murphy Miff said "Any South Sea Island, where it is warm but not hot, and not too dry." Seriously, I like where I am now although we sure could use some nice sunshine.

I just talked with my Pa who decided to go South for the Winter. I told him to enjoy the sunshine for me. They were out looking at golf carts so he could ride around in it down there. My sister, who is twice my sister (sister in law, and step sister both) is keeping tabs on him for me, And I am glad of that, since we just lost my beloved StepMom on January 1st. What a way to start 2006. Next week I am going to visit.
My husband informed me that the Secretary (Mary) where he works, is failing fast with cancer. She is doing everything she can to fight for life, and losing. The first chemo treatments quit helping, so they were trying another kind, and that is not working either. My heart goes out to her. My StepMom went fast, and maybe that was kinder. I struggled with that one.

Yesterday I had an eye exam, and the doctor asked me if I had been crying a lot lately. I had to say yes to that one. Surprised me that he could tell, but that is his job. Tomorrow I have the yearly mammogram, yay. That is always something to look forward to, huh. But that is part of my life being a Grandma. Having regular check-ups and all. Someone told me that a person starts going downhill at 50. Today someone who is 71 told me that 70 is when you start going downhill. Hey, I have no choice. I will get to that when I get to that. One day at a time here. This is who I am and what I have got, so I bloom where I am planted. And enjoy each day. Even if it is a breast exam. And even if it pours down rain, which it is doing, today, too.

So, my life of being Grandma today. I am sewing pajamas for little boy, who has already outgrown the first ones I made. He is eating baby food now. These pj's are too big, but he can grow into them. What else am I doing today: Working on one of the puzzles my daughter Angel sent me for Christmas. Reading "S is for Silence" also a gift from her. I am in my element.
By the way, I have gone International with my Grandkids. I have American, Vietnamese, and Mexican. Twelve in all. Thirteen if you count the little angel, and I do. My oldest daughter gave me three tall, wonderful, smart, ahem....grandchildren, who have grown to be great adults already. The International comes from Topekatrina: one awsome smart kind little Kenna, and two adorable boys, who have stolen my heart over and over again. The Mexican comes from my son marrying his sweetheart when he was an exchange student in Mexico. They have two boys. One looks like her and one looks like him. And they are smart, too. Sigh.

I have two canarys here at home. We started off with the pretty yellow female and had her for a year before I began to think she would like a companion. What I found was an orange South American canary with the flat feathers around his head. He sings all day long. They like each other, but don't like to be in the same cage. I got him because she seemed to be lonesome and she was starting to pull feathers off herself.
Now that's another story. We sprayed her cage and herself with Mite and Lice spray for birds, and kept her cage clean. Next, we put vitamins in her water. The latest thing we are doing for her is using Grannick's bitter apple spray, a tast deterrent for birds, so she won't keep plucking her feathers off. Because now she is not so pretty anymore with quite a lot of her feathers off. The back of her head is bald. I won't let her stay that way. I will help her get rid of that awful habit, and have my beautiful little yellow fluffy bird back, so help me. Grandmas have to help the little creatures that can't help themselves.

I like Jamba Juice, but it tastes better in Oregon; also there is no tax there. My favorite things to do besides visiting with my kids, is to go to the Library. I work part time as Statement Prep Clerk, and I like the comraderie of that, too. We only work four days the first of each month, and have a good team that works well together.

My thanks goes out to my family who are here to support me and who gave me some nice gifts for Christmas: to Timbo who found me a book on Chicago; wow. To Judith, granddaughter, who gave me the most Beautiful Poem! I love you, girl. To Angel, who knows just when to call. To Topekatrina, who is always there. To my Murphy, who is my rock, and takes such good care of me. Thank God for him. And I do feel blessed, I Know I am blessed, to have children who love me so much. I keep praying a hedge up for you all, always have; always will.

I should end this now with a joke or some contest or something. Hmmm Do you know how to catch a unique rabbit? How do you catch a tame rabbit? Anyone know? Did you hear the joke about this Bible student who kept being followed around by this girl named Shirley? He finally prayed about it, and thought that he would get his Bible and close his eyes and thumb through and point, and whatever verse his finger landed on would give him the answer to his situation. He pointed to Psalms 23:6 Haha; get it? Luv2ReedGrandmaK

2006-01-08T16:11:00.000-08:00

Hi there
Thought I would drop a line to write just a little about me.

I live up here in the beautiful Pacific Northwest Puget Sound region, where it rainsalot. Sometimes the sun shines. I dub my husband as Murphy Miff. I am up here instead of in Oregon which I love, because I married him 17 years ago.

We created a spot here that is full of content and we spoil each other every day. He is 8 years younger than I am, and so I stay close to home instead of snow birding with all my friends the same age as I am. Maybe we will go seek sun in the winters when he retires in 4 more years, who knows.

I started Cross-Stitching about three months ago; inspired first by my daughter Lolly, then sitting with my step mother Carolyn Hope and watching her do some wonderous works of art.

I also like to quilt. And knit scarfs, taught to knit by my youngest daughter who lives in Topeka these days. My mother taught me how to crochet and I like to do that, too. I have a good stash of both yarns and materials. Sometimes just sitting looking at it all satisfies my soul. sigh.

I don't feel like a senior citizen. In my mind I still do cartwheels and run the best in my gym class. Or pick 400lbs of green beans in one day. Or squardance all night. Or mow the yard, then get on the roof, then plant a garden, and then tackle at least five more strenous tasks before nightfall. I remember it all. It's just that I have a little more sense nowadays, and think things through and give my verbal support more now, instead. The trick is to just Keep Up with the youngsters.

Another funny thing about getting older. It is like I am wearing a disguise. So many people do not See me anymore. They look right past me and it makes me smile. I can get away with anything, and no one would remember my being there. Now, my favorite people, my family, don't do this. And the beautiful thing about grandchildren is that they look right into your Heart.

So, that is enough for the first time writing, don't you think. I do. So, on this line I will hang my close, Loving, contented, Luv2ReedGrandma