On Monday She Shopped

Today I made my rounds to buy fresh fruit and veggies. Now I can't decide what I want to eat first - peach, blackberry, cantaloupe, apple, blueberry, or strawberry. Fresh veggies and green salad is good but nothing trumps fresh fruit. I think I'll have blackberries on my cereal tomorrow morning.

Harry had the bad luck of having a computer problem that is causing him to have to reload. After he gets everything back in order he will have to complete his day's work. So far he's completely calm about it and just methodically going about correcting everything. I'd have had a complete melt down by now. Judy, if you're reading this can you believe your pa has a computer problem and isn't all wrinkled up? He's getting better in his old age. (For everyone else: "All wrinkled up" is my term for having a frown and being all tense and snappy.) I love that man weather he's calm or all wrinkled up.

I'm going to curl up in the sunroom and enjoy a new magazine I bought while out today. Have a good evening.

A Somber End of Day

Gathering day has come to a close and now Harry and I are alone. It surely is quiet when everyone leaves - quiet and lonesome. Harry is doing a big barbecue next Sunday for our July 4th holiday. This leaves Friday night for everyone to decide if they want to go to the big fireworks show. I can tell you now that I'm not going. I know I'm strange but I don't like the noise associated with fireworks. I can stay home and see the display in the sky without being close enough to suffer the booms. It's an old lady thing.

Today was the second day of the big air show here in Huntsville. There were over 100,000 spectators in addition to several VIP tents and many vendors selling food and drinks. The weather turned bad VERY fast without warning and a microburst (with winds in excess of 60 miles per hour) hit in the area where the tents were set up. Some tents were picked up and destroyed others were damaged. As you can imagine there was complete chaos. There were injuries but so far only one confirmed fatality - a five year old boy who died when an air conditioning unit from one of the tents fell on him. Our little gathering became somber as we thought of the family who is facing a tradegy beyond description.

We never know what the next hour will bring - let your loved ones know you love them.

Cleaning Day

I've had a whole day at home by myself. Harry went with Keith to take the boys to the air show. They included me in their plans but I knew it would be too much for me. Thousands attended. Several groups performed including the Blue Angels the Army's Golden Knights, and Jacquie Warda. I've seen too many test flights, parachute jumps and Angels practices to be real excited about an air show. Besides it's too darn hot to be out on a flight line just to be entertained. Bah-Humbug! It was all new to the boys though and held quiet a WOW factor for them.

I used my time to clean the kitchen - not just cook or do dishes but to really clean. Glad that's over.

Oops! Loud thunder, and immediate downpour. Shutting down. No danger, I just don't trust lightening. Have a good evening. Over and out.

Another Hot Day in Alabama

Play day was quiet today. James wanted to "attend" Noggin's Blues Clues School on the internet and Jesse was busy trying to catch a HUGE dragon fly. No chance of catching that dragon fly, thank heavens. The boys are getting old enough to play on their own. I have mixed feelings about that but it's the natural progression of life.

I'm actually doing well with my so called lifestyle changes. Down a few - very few - pounds. Pounds are not my main goal - though maybe they should be. Feeling like a human being and getting myself back into normal routines is my number one goal. So far, so good.

Harry and I went to Home Depot yesterday and I saw a planter that really caught my eye. It was just the right size and shade of soft gold that I've been looking for. I decided to come home without it and agreed (with myself) that if I still wanted it this morning I would go back and make the purchase. Late yesterday afternoon there were 6 of the planters on the shelf. Early this morning there were only 2. I took one and saw the other in a gentleman's cart in the checkout line. As you can see, simple fits me best. It is more gold than the pic but very subdued. I want the plant to be the focus. Now I'm in the market for just the right Lady Palm.

Time to get up and move. All you folks have a happy evening. Thanks for stopping by.

Shopping With My Oldest Grandson

I can't believe that it's already Wednesday! Where does the time go? I can't see a thing I've accomplish. OK, that's my gripe. I'll lay it down and move on. Whew!!

Jesse, the oldest grandson, spent a little while with me this afternoon while his brother was at music class. He and I ran a few errands and I was blown away at how much help he can be. He asked me to tell him what we had to do and read my list to him. I did. I thought he was just making conversation but I was wrong. At the grocery store he remembered everything on the list - 12 things - and knew where they were. He didn't ask to stop at the toy aisle nor did he ask for anything from the junk food aisle. I asked him to select the ice cream and he selected a half gallon carton rather than Popsicles "because grown-up folks like real ice cream and kids do too."

We went to another store to get things to re-stock the treat cabinet. He made some excellent choices - well excellent choices for junk food. He also reminded me to check labels so we wouldn't get things with "too much MSG." We made a couple of other stops and he proved himself a real help there as well. When we got home he was front and center to help carry things inside.

This child won't be 6 until October but he's becoming a little gentleman and a honest help to Nana. Did I mention that he opened doors for me?

Yeah, I know. Nana loves to brag but believe me today Jessee deserves it.

Tryin' to Catch Up

Seems time is short for the past few days. I look back to see what I've accomplished and things look pretty much the same. What's up with that? Do you think that maybe - just maybe - I'm spinnin' my wheels?

Yesterday was gathering day. James and Jesse were in rare form. James hit the door asking if he could please play Noggin. Jesse has discovered merchandising. He concocted "special cookies" with Oreos and M&Ms by opening the Oreo and sticking four M&Ms to the white center. He wanted to go to the street and sell them but Keith (daddy) didn't let him. No problem, Jesse just opened shop in the house. Sales were pretty good considering I'm off the cookie train. I have a feeling that from now on things are going to get pretty interesting. I just love it - every stage just gets more complex and fun than the last. Just think, in a few months Baby will be ready to move into "stages" of interesting stuff. He'll probably be way ahead of the game because he'll have two cousins to teach him the ropes plus he'll come up with a few tricks of his own.

It would be so good if Maddie, the Phoenix granddaughter, could be here to teach her tricks and ideas to the boys and vice versa. Maybe she can work on that when she's here at Thanksgiving. Maddie is a pretty little lady - all she needs is a good spoilin' administered by Papa and Nana.

Saturday was a reef meeting. As usual the food was very good and abundant. I was a good girl and left most of it for others. I did have a small helping of brisket and slaw but no sweets. I don't know anyone who can turn down a wonderful brisket that's been properly cooked. Both Harry and I were really tired when we got home. I guess smiling, talking, and looking at reef tanks naturally wears old folks to a frazzle.

OK folks, there you have it. Life as it is in my world. Don't know yet what today will bring but Harry offered to read to me for a while this afternoon and I surely won't turn that down. What's happening in your world? Come on, spill the beans. Whatever it is I hope it is good and makes you happy.

I'm a Bragging Nana

It's no secret that I'm one of those grandmother's who lives through their grandchildren. Their vacations are better than my own. I take so much pleasure in their delight with the world around them. Each new experience is a treasure to little children.

This is the chalet/cabin the little family rented for a short 'get-away'. It is at the top of a mountain with bluff views on three sides. There were balconies on both levels and on three sides. Sunset on one of the balconies. This is Mary, Keith (my son), and James (4 yrs). Jesse made the picture. He's proud of becoming one of the family photographers.

Jesse (5 yrs) is patiently waiting at the edge of a trail for instructions. He's really 'into' collecting insects. He specializes in dragon flies and grasshoppers. He uses his 'bug' book to identify them.

Tee, this one's for you. Did you know there are Dalmatian horses as well as Dalmatian cows? The boys were really impressed with this horse. James is still expecting a Dalmatian puppy - a real live one.
All good things must come to an end. Last evening in paradise is a bit subdued but we can store our memories and dream of our next vacation. Jesse looks a bit sad.

James has moved on to the dreams of next vacation. Surely next trip will be to the beach. "Did you see that Dalmatian horse?"

At the end of the day the boys love each other and aren't shy about saying so. They are happy with whatever each new day brings. Some are just better than others. (Can you tell that Jesse has lost his two front teeth?
Forgive me for being a braggart. I don't mean to be - I just love all the children.

All is well in my world. The kids are home safely and I continue to improve.

Thanks for stopping by. You all come back now, ya heah.

This Morning's Surprise

One never knows when a surprise will show up - maybe that's why it's called a surprise. This morning I was on the screened porch and thought I caught the wonderful fragrance of gardenia. I thought I was mistaken because I didn't plant one and just dismissed it from my mind. Later I decided to walk around the beds in back to see just how much work it will take to get them back in order. Guess what!! The little azalea that didn't bloom this spring is a miniature gardenia. Duh!! It was on a cheapie shelf at the nursery and obviously was mislabeled. I never had a small gardenia and I think it's so neat. Now nothing can ruin my day. It's not a good pic but the blooms are close to the ground.

While I was outside with the camera I took a couple of other pics. These are my balloon flowers. I put them in three summers ago and they come back every year. They are always get comments because the bud is folded and puffed up - guess that's why it's called a balloon flower.

This picture was an afterthought as I was coming inside. It was made standing under our Contorted Hazel - or "Henry Lauder's Walking Stick" It's branches are really interesting. They twist and turn in every direction but aren't intrusive. I have the bird feeders on the other side of this tree because the little birds love to perch in this tree. As an aside, I have been led to believe this tree is native to Scotland.

I'm waiting for a roofer to come and give me an estimate on replacing the porch roof. I'm also having a sunroom company do the same. I haven't heard anything bad about metal roofs. Thank you so very much to those of you who responded to my post and to those who emailed me. I think you are all correct - a metal roof will be my decision. Just waiting for estimates.

Each day is getting easier and easier. Thanks for your kind words - they help keep me on track.

Metal Roofs and Travel Plans

The frustration of finding someone to re-roof the screen porch began today. It really must be done because there is a leak - just in case it might rain here sometime. I don't want to deal with making sure everything is placed just so to avoid getting wet. I called for estimates but so far no one has called me back. I am thinking that I want an insulated metal roof but can't be sure. Does anyone have suggestions or warnings about what I might expect with a metal roof? I currently have a clear (plastic, I guess) roof with strong UV screening and I do like it but it has developed problems after only 3 years.

I'm beginning to get my bearings again and am beginning to notice all the things I let slide. It's going to be an uphill battle to catch up, but I'm just thankful that I'm able to do so. I need to get on point and make progress.

During dinner this evening Harry mentioned that if we intend to do any traveling we need to make plans and do it before one or the other of us is no longer able. We talked about some possibilities but we didn't discuss plans. Harry's way of planning a far away trip is to say, "If you could only choose one place in the world to travel where would it be?" He likes us to each make a list of one or two places, compare lists, and work from there. I think Europe is in his mind - nice but I dread the flight. Flying isn't as user friendly as it once was.

Gotta get ready for bed. Hope everyone is well.

Lesson For The Day

Harry and I watched the US Open (golf) playoff today. The playoff was between Tiger Woods and Rocco (somebody), a 45 year old golfer. They played 18 playoff holes which ended in another tie. This sent them to a sudden death playoff. In the sudden death Tiger won at the seventh (the first sudden death hole) hole. Those of you who are interested already know this and those of you who aren't could care less.

That's not what this post is about. My point is that Tiger's peers and usual competitors had failed to overcome his expertise even though Tiger was playing for the first time following knee surgery. An older player, who is currently almost unheard of on this tour, not only managed to force the US Open into an 18 hole playoff, he held Tiger for that 18 holes, too. Tiger did win in the sudden playoff but he had to work to win. True, Tiger is just getting over knee surgery but none of the world's top players managed to force a playoff - just the man with a cool attitude and a "can do" mind set.

Tiger has reason to be proud of his hard won championship. But we can all take a lesson from Rocco. With a "can do" mind set and the willingness to go out and work towards our goals we can all achieve the level to which we aspire.

Unfortunately all I aspire to these days is to do old lady things. Ambitious old fart, aren't I?

Have a wonderful day and do something fun.

Hello, There

It's Sunday night and getting close to bed time. I'm still watching my schedule very closely. Haven't had meds for pain, back spasms, or to help me sleep in the past week and I've been fairly comfortable.

The boys and their parents are in the Smoky Mountains this weekend and will return on Wednesday of this week. Their house sitter is taking care of their kitty and holding the fort down, so to speak. The youngest boy was so excited because their chalet has both a hot tub and a "biiiig batf tub" (a whirlpool). The oldest was excited because they are on tippy top of the mountain and can see far "and it's a boo-ti-fullllllllll scene" They are just enjoying nature and staying away from the tourist mega centers. That is so good. They have been so busy for the last two years that they need a little time to relax and enjoy each other.

The oldest son, Joe, was here today as was Bud, Sarah, and Baby. Baby is still having a little trouble with his tummy. He's only six weeks old and such a sweet, cuddly little bundle. They weren't here long and I didn't get to make pics. I was busy holding him and totally forgot the camera until it was too late.

Judy, our daughter in Phoenix, called to talk to her Dad late today. She and I talked a bit, too. I asked if they were ever coming back east and she said they would love to - it just depends if there is a job opening somewhere along the east coast. The granddaughter is 16 months old now and I'm sure she's quiet a little lady. Saturday morning finds her in a little gymnastic class. Judy says she loves it. Wish I could watch her and have her explain it all to me in 16 month old jibberish.

I made a large pork loin roast today. We also had a salad that included lots of "stuff" from fruit to veggies. In keeping with Harry and my plan to eat less, we sent leftovers home with Sarah.

When I make a plan and settle on it I can be a pretty determined and stubborn old gal. This diet and life style change is something I have to do. It really isn't so hard once you make up your mind to do what you need to do.

Only have about 10 minutes until bed time and I still have to brush my teeth. More information that you needed? Sorry about that.

Hope everyone has a pleasant week.

Friday = Happy Day

It's Thursday evening which means tomorrow is play day. Yipeeee!!! Harry is taking the oldest boy to the golf course to putt on the putting green early in the day. The youngest and I will do something special until the "big boys" get back home. I have to really enjoy my time with the boys tomorrow because they are leaving for a trip to the mountains and won't be here for gathering day.

The weather here is hot, humid, and dry. No rain. Pollen count is high. Outside work is not really complete. But, so what!! A hundred years from now no one will know that I'm so far behind I'll never catch up and even now no one cares.

I've been pretty home bound for a week or so and, if Harry will go with me, I may browse through the huge antique store not far from our house. It's the only store that I've ever seen that has everything from thrift store stuff to fine European antiques. I don't need one thing but I do love to look. I'm a sucker for antique hand knotted rugs from the mid-east. Maybe they won't have one for me to drool over - my floors are covered and a couple of rugs are stored. Now you know my real weakness. When I was in DC on a regular basis, I always visited the antique rug store in Alexandria, VA.

Time has slipped away and I need to call it a day. Trying to keep the beddie-bye time constant to regulate my sleep.

My best to everyone.

Thank You, My Blogging Friends

Today is a much, much better day than the past two or three have been – actually the last week, for that matter.

I’m not sure how many of you know that, in the late 90’s I fractured my left hip. I opted for healing rather than surgery and was blessed that the hip did, in fact, heal nicely. All was well until “Ole Uncle Arthur” moved in. The hip is still strong but sometimes the pain gets pretty bad. When that happens I change my gait and my back complains in a very loud voice. That happened a little over a week ago. I couldn’t define exactly what hurt but there was no mistaking the pain.

At the same time I was having a problem sleeping and taking a prescription to break the insomnia cycle. Yep, you guessed it. All those meds put me in a funk. Nothing dangerous but I didn’t like where I found myself. I backed off to think the situation through and make some decisions. Those are made.

In the first place, I believe that if I loose some weight the hip pain will be less and occur infrequently. That, in turn, will eliminate developing the back spasms and pain. Further, there will be no need for drugs that diminish my quality of life. Sounds good to me.

Harry is supporting me 100%. He said it would be good if he can loose a couple of pounds, too. We are going to follow a strict plan for eating. I won’t call it a diet, but there’s a lot less of this and a lot more of than in our plan. Plans are better than diets. Right?

My live style needs to change, too. Nothing will change involving the kids and grandkids but just about everything else should – and will - though that will be a gradual process. My quality of life for the last several days is just not acceptable but I’m strong enough to address the problems and make the changes.

Ok, folks, onward and upward. I’ll not dwell on negative but look forward to the positive.

Those who have been concerned and sent email – thank you so very much. If I missed responding to any one of you I do apologize. Your concern and prayers helped me to center myself and focus on the problem rather than the symptoms.

Blogging friends are the best!!!

Thinking

I'm here. I'm crusin' around reading and commenting. Will post here again - maybe tomorrow.
I'm fine, just have a few things on my mind that I need to work on. Hope everyone is doing well. All my best to each of you.

Summer is Definately Here

Winter is over and summer is here. I know most of you are happy to see a break in your long, unpredictable winter. I am, too, for that matter................but. It's 95 degrees with 70% humidity (according to Harry's razzle ya, dazzle ya weather measuring gadget) and not a breath of air moving. This is the part of the year that I hate. Humidity is not my friend and it certainly is not a friend to my hair. Yesterday I had Mary cut it short for the summer because that's the only solution.

Harry mowed the lawn this morning and is now outside doing some trimming and pruning. I keep looking out the window to be sure he hasn't hit the ground - don't want to go out there if I don't need to. I know he won't go up in smoke because it's too humid for anything to burn. I honestly do not know how he can bear working outside in this heat. He reminds me, though, that he's a south central Alabama boy and was raised in this heat. God only knows it was never like this in the mountains. I spent three weeks one July in the New Mexico "nothing but sand and scrub" country and it was never this uncomfortable. I guess you've heard enough of my b**c*ing for one day. On to other things.

The grandsons are taking their parents to Townsend (just outside Gatlinburg on the south side) next weekend. They prefer (as do we) to stay outside the tourist mega center. The attraction for all our family is the trails, the scenery, and the cool mountain streams. The boys made sure their cabin has a hot tub and/or a BIG bathtub. Never mind a stove -"We can eat treats so Mommy doesn't have to cook and Daddy doesn't have to take us to eat." These kids have it all figured out. They'll be planning and packing all week.

Harry and I haven't discussed a vacation for this summer. I'd like to book a fall cruise off New England and Eastern Canada but haven't mentioned it yet. Dare I? I know he'll agree if I ask. We'd like to see our little family who are in Phoenix but I don't want to go in the summer time. 115 is just too much heat for me. Golly, Judy, why don't you and Rick transfer to somewhere cooler? Maddie is going to be toast. Last time I talked to Judy she said that they were planning to be here at Thanksgiving. We all really, really hope so. Judy, Rick, and Maddie haven't met Baby yet. He'll be so happy to see them, as will we all.

Enough running on and on. Gotta go check on Harry again. I wish he'd come inside so I can relax.

Hope you're either enjoying a comfortable day or inside relaxing. Whatever, have a good day.

Hello, My Blogging Friends

Didn't post yesterday but did read and comment some. I think I commented a bit this morning but decided to wait for evening to post.

The boys were here for play day - as a matter of fact, they were here for a while yesterday, too. We always have fun and I look forward to spending time with them. They really don't need a lot of care anymore. Potty time is totally independent and they are way beyond needing help with food or drink. Even our kitty has decided they can be semi-trusted - she no longer runs to hide when she sees them. They carry on conversations with each other and with Harry and me. Some of those conversations are full of interesting thoughts. Kids are certainly smarter and more aware of the world than when I was their age.

I am already thinking about visiting my pillow. It might be lonesome and need someone to hold it. Just another way of saying I'm making this an early night.

Enjoy your evening and hug a friend or loved one. Be sure to tell them that you love them. That's important.

My Day With Baby

Sarah called me this morning to see if I had time to go out to their house to take care of Baby for a while so she could do a couple of chores, shower, and take a nap. Sooooo....nanny, nanny, bo, bo, I got to spend time with Baby today. He's growing like a little weed. It was fun to be able to hold the dear little fellow and watch him. He and I rocked, sang, watched the kitties, talked, stretched, had an awesome bottle and 'killed' two diapers. By the time Sarah was up Baby was as peaceful as a little angel sleeping soundly. I think I wore him out.

Baby does have a little problem with his digestion but it isn't affecting his growth. All my babies, and most that I've ever seen, have a tendency to spit-up following a bottle - usually during burping time. Baby has a wonderful doctor, who his parents are very confident of. She will continue to monitor him and change meds, if need be. Sarah looks tired and I'm more worried about her. Being a new first time mother is the hardest job in the whole wide world and she's wearing herself doing a top-notch job.

Harry cooked dinner on the grill this evening - two straight days without cooking. I may forget how.

I had a good day - Yes, I did. Hope you had a good day, too.

We Did Our Part

Today is primary election in Alabama. Harry and I ventured out to the poll to do our part. We went at a time when we expected the crowd to be small since we can vote anytime during the time the polls are open. Working folks are a bit more limited. There wasn't a waiting line but movement was constant. It was good to see a steady line of voters at 2 o'clock in the afternoon. If your state is having a primary or if the polls are open for any reason, please vote. It's both a freedom and an obligation if we expect to maintain that freedom.

OK, I'm off my soap box.

While Harry and I were out I suggested that we have an earlier than early dinner at LongHorn before going home. It was really pleasant - no crowd - dedicated service - delicious food. Harry had a porterhouse steak so rare it could have walked to the table - just the way he likes it - and the all trimmings. I had a cup of french onion soup and a green salad with chicken. (We all know by now how I feel about green salads.) Wow, I don't have to cook tonight. Whatever will I do with the extra time?

My back pain is like a bad dream that never happened. I'm bragging NOT complaining. I gave it an extra day just to be sure the episode is over. Tomorrow I plan to do a bit of much needed work outside. It's getting pretty hot but some things are crying out for attention. I'll just have to start really early and be through before the sun hits the front border.

Man, oh, man!!! If you're looking for an exciting blog I'm sure this is it. NOT!! Dullsville, baby, dullsville. Old farts can't stand a lot of excitement, though. I'm closing before I bore myself.

Hope you have happy days and find something fun along the way.

Monday in North Alabama

It was a long five days of taking meds and being afraid to move, but I'm so happy to say that my back doesn't hurt anymore. It's really strange how these extremely painful "things" can happen so quickly and leave the same way.

The best news of all is that Baby is doing much better. Mommy and Daddy were able to get a reasonable amount of sleep last night - reasonable for new parents, that is. I just can't wait to start spoiling him.

I've had lots of couch time over the past five days and have been watching birds come and go at the feeders. Chipmunks gather spilled food on the ground and that squirrel is making himself at home, too. It's interesting to watch parent birds bring youngsters to the feeders. First parents feed them and gradually watch while they feed themselves. The half grown babies have trouble perching at first. I've seen mockingbirds, robins, thrashers, finches, cardinals, wrens, sparrows, nuthatches, and two or three that I didn't recognize. (Our Sibley's and our field guide are both on a top shelf that was out of my reach at the time.) Harry says that I have built a community of welfare birds right outside our sunroom windows.

I tried to crochet some while doing the couch time. It didn't go very well though - did you realize that crocheting can affect your back? Maybe I'm just weird but it was really uncomfortable. I'll get back to that later - I haven't quit.

I also discovered that Netflix can be a nice thing to have when you can't sleep. With a membership one can watch unlimited movies and/or TV shows on the computer. One night "The Sound of Music" saved me from late night infomercials and helped take my mind off my plight with my back.

It's time to get on with my evening and settle down for the night. I'm looking forward to tomorrow and being pain free enough to leave this house. I have a serious case of cabin fever. Never satisfied, am I?

Take care. My best to everyone.

A New Week - A New Beginning

Today the was a bit strange. It was really disjointed. Pot roast with gravy, pork country ribs with BBQ sauce (my recipe), steamed cauliflower, macaroni & cheese, salad, and breads. Brownies to wrap things up. Various drinks. It's poor planning but no one left hungry. Everything was easy to do and required very little on my part. I'm not really that lazy but my back is still on the warpath. Everyone was here except Bud, Sarah, and Baby. They are still dealing with sleep deprivation also they live several miles away. Harry and I surely miss them as does the rest of the gang.

We had a mini thunderstorm late today. At least it brought us a bit more rain. One of these days we may be back to a normal water table - I certainly hope so.

I watched the first laps of today's NASCAR race but didn't watch after that. I was more comfortable sitting in a straight kitchen chair. The grandson's Mother sat with me in the kitchen and we talked about some of the things planned for the boys summer vacation. The boys kept coming back and eating a little bit more of this and more of that until they weren't interested in the treat cabinet. I keep the treat cabinet stocked but the goodies have to be earned by eating good food. That cabinet has been a blue ribbon winner. I don't have to make any decisions. The boys make the decisions with their eating habits.

My best to everyone this evening. I wish you an uncomplicated week ahead. Take care.