New Schedule for the Weekend

We will have a slightly different schedule this weekend. Our daughter (who lives in Phoenix) is in Atlanta for two weeks training and has this weekend free. She is renting a car and coming home on Friday afternoon. It will be a short visit since she has to be back in Atlanta and ready for the second week of training on Monday morning. She'll probably get here in time to enjoy the very end of play day and I know the boys will be so happy to see her.

Our Saturday will be so much fun with all the kids here waiting for Harry's grilling to be done. I hope the weather is user friendly but if it isn't we'll just ignore that fact and be thankful to have the children here. The only thing that would make the weekend better is if our granddaughter and son-in-law could be here, too. They are home in Phoenix. We're really looking forward to Thanksgiving when they can be here.

I'll try to slip in a post somewhere along the way but if I'm quiet this weekend just get ready for pics and stories early next week. I won't forget the prayers that are promised.

I'm so excited I could just pee!!! And if you think that's excited you should see Harry walk on air!

Have a good weekend, everyone.

Priority One - Complete

Back to school clothes are in house and kid approved - I should say:"Kid selected and Mommy approved." My way of dealing with this task is to take the boys into the store and tell them to select a certain number of shirts from this rack and that one over there. Now select your pants and shorts from these racks. We tell them the number (size) that fits them and let them shop. They are in a frenzy for a few minutes and then it begins to get old to them. That's when Mommy and Nana step in and make the rest of the selections with approval from the boys. It works really well. Mommy makes the decision and each boy thinks that he made all the decisions - and for the most part they are correct. The boys selected Taco Bell for lunch - the decision had something to do with certain cars that are in the kid's meal. No food was wasted, though.

Shopping was a success and now is history. Next comes shoes, undies, socks, and school supplies. The boys have to participate in the shoe deal but otherwise they won't have to get involved. All is well that ends well.

That's the end for today. Tomorrow is another sunrise. No plans but still lots to do.

Busy Week Looming Up Ahead

Sunday has drawn to a close. Harry and I were so happy to have all the local kids here. Baby Hooper is growing so fast - he's three months old now and an handsome little man. I was a lazy Nana today - I didn't cook. Instead I had lots and lots of sandwich 'fixin's', fruit, pound cake, whipped cream, and of course salad stuff. Sometimes I forget that the younger generation enjoys having sandwiches. I'm pretty sure no one went home hungry. If they did it's their own fault - there was plenty of food. We have leftovers to freeze. One of the things I bought that I haven't had before is peppered turkey breast. That stuff is good!

Tomorrow is school clothes day. Mary and I are taking the boys to try on and probably buy back to school clothes. This coming weekend is Alabama's tax free weekend. Anything and everything for back to school is tax free. It's a wonderful thing for the powers-that-be to do but I don't intend to wait for it. The crowds are the worst you can imagine. Moms with a "kill the competition" gleam in their eyes and children (bless their hearts) crying because they don't know what might happen next. Thanks but no thanks. The saved $ isn't worth the hassle. Not for me. I like to maintain a trace of dignity when the children are with me. You know, set a good example.

I have a lot to accomplish this week and just hope that I'm up to the task. Time will tell. I hope everyone has a pleasant Monday and an even better rest of the week. My best wishes to all.

Swim Party

Any day that's swim party day is a day Nana posts pics and very few words. I'll just say that a good time was had by all. Tomorrow (Saturday) in a reef club meeting so another busy day.

Ladies first: Emma Mae, a motorcycle float, a big smile and big brother, Grant, in the background.

Grant takes a ride on the motorcycle.

Jesse explores the possibilities in an unfamiliar pool.

James welcomes Mommy to the pool. . my little gentleman.
Nana and Grandma watched from the sidelines - in the sun, I might add. Papa watched until everyone was wet then he went back to the air conditioning.

Now you know all about my day. How was yours? Hope all is going well for you.

It was a Happy Day

The appointment with doctor went well. They ran a couple of routine tests and determined that my bone density is "better than great for my age" and that my cholesterol is "great for my age." I hate that phrase ". . for my age" when someone else uses it. The part that I love is that they weighed me two times because I have somehow managed to loose 26 pounds! It's remarkable what just small changes did for me. Yes, i am bragging.

Nothing else comes to mind to ramble on about so here is a quickie shot of the fish in our 225 gal reef getting ready for nightie-night. . .

. . . .and a picture of our big Sailfin Tang. He appears to pose for pictures.

Did I mention that Harry bought a new camera? He decided on Nikon D40.

Tomorrow is swimming day - the boys are ready.

Have a good evening. Thanks for stopping by.

Load the Wagon

I've been putting priority on reading rather than writing. My days have been spent trying to plan the vaca and thinking about Harry's camera search. Bless his heart, decisions aren't easy.

I didn't know that I had a doctor's appointment today until the office girl called yesterday to remind me. Darn!!! That puts a crimp in my day. It's just routine - I feel fine - but my doctor puts a lot of emphasis on my routine visits because of some prior medical issues. Oh, well, I'd be unhappy if he didn't keep up with the routine tests. Can't please an old woman no matter what you do. Right?

My dance card is getting full - at least it seems that way to me. If it were empty I'd be having a pity party. (Refer to above comment.)

Gotta get my wagon loaded and this show on the road. Have you ever heard the comment "Load the wagon, boys, the mule's blind"? Somehow it fits.

My best to everyone. Have a good day and a better tomorrow. Thanks for stopping by.

Shopping and Travel Plans

Monday is used up and a hot Monday it was. Harry and I made our trek to Sam's for our usual buy of paper products, cleaning products, etc. Harry is considering a new digital camera but is having trouble deciding which to buy so we did some looking and collecting info then came home. He said he wants to think it over for a few days. No snap decisions from Harry, let me tell you.

Harry's main concern re a camera is that it will take accurate pics of the corals in the reef at nearly microscopic levels and in true color. This ain't gonna be cheap but I hope he finds exactly what he wants.

On another note, it looks like our vacation this year will be along the NC coast and along the Outer Banks. Harry doesn't like to go on vacation and sit still. Rather he likes to keep moving - seeing and doing different things. We're looking at 9 to 10 days on the road. If anyone has suggestions they would be much appreciated. I was assigned the task of making an itinerary and I'm at a loss. I know things have changed since I was younger and he's never been there. H-E-L-P!! I do know that we need to wait until after school starts and travel before the winter "blow" begins.

On that note, I think I'll go to bed. It makes me tired just to think of trying to put this together. I do want to add, though, that it isn't hard to please Harry - just hard to get plans in place.

It's Party Time

This started out as an almost boring day. I was pretty sure Baby Hooper would not be here - boohoo. (It is hard to travel with a tiny one.) The rest of the gang wasn't scheduled to be here until around 4PM. But things changed. Joe arrived and then the boys came with parents in tow.

The boys were proud to show mommy and daddy their handiwork. (The flower pots) There was a discussion about what kind of flowers would look nice in them. James decided he wants a blue flower. Jesse doesn't seem to care. When the pots were complete he considers the project done and closed. Here are pictures of the flowerpots and the boys.

Jesse studied other flower pots and was going for the look he saw on a glazed pot "like a rainbow". James just wanted his to have "pretty colors and spots like a puppy."

Later the two children whose picture is in yesterday's post came over with their mother (Holly) and later their father (Jack) came over, too. The little boy who had surgery, Grant, was a bit quieter than the other three - EmmaMae, Jesse, and James. After the initial thrill of the three musketeers seeing each other settled down they played together non- stop. Not one grumble or disagreement. Lots of laughing, though. Grant spent lots of time looking at the reefs and different folks spent time telling him about what he was seeing.

All in all I wouldn't say we had a gathering - we had an all out party. It was so much fun for everyone. Holly and Mary discussed their expectations for the soon to start school year and fall vacations. Jack and Harry were planning to play golf in the near future. Everyone had something to share and questions to ask. When it was time to go everyone within three blocks knew the children were parting. Everyone yelling "Bye" "Come to my house" "Play date, play date" Big time hugging and, a couple of times, almost parting tears. Parents were hoping all the running and playing would result in early nights for the little ones. When our house was empty once again we old folks settled into our routine with smiles on our faces.

Folks, I absolutely loved this day. The only thing that would have made today better would have been having Baby Hooper and parents and our little Phoenix family here to join in the fun and laughter.

It's the end of a perfect day. I hope yours was perfect, too.

A "Loss of Situational Awareness"

It's been an unusual day for me. The boys and I started our "flower pot" project, as planned, on Friday and had to wait for the base coat to dry and cure. They came back this morning and did the painting. Again we have to wait for the paint to dry and cure. Tomorrow we'll put the top coat on and when it dries we'll get a couple of little plants for them to either drown or allow to dry up. While they are here tomorrow I'll take a pic of the Flower Pot Design Crew and their creations for your viewing pleasure.

Thursday evening Harry and I decided to eat at Longhorn. He ordered the usual rare (as in a good vet could cure it) prime rib and I ordered LaFayette chicken. All I can say is, do NOT go there. It was a tasty dish but the aftermath wasn't pretty. (As you know, I've been making a concentrated effort to improve my diet - and with much success, I might add.) I don't know if it was the spices or preparation but I developed a case of indigestion that ended with acid reflux. The ingredients seemed to be fresh - spoilage certainly wasn't the problem. This dish in on my No-No List. It's the first entree that I've ever had at Longhorn that didn't agree with me.

I don't know what Harry was watching on TV at the time but I was sitting at my desk and heard a man on television say that someone had a "loss of situational awareness." Now how's that as another way of saying "He/she/they just weren't paying attention to what they were doing or what was happening"? It's not that funny to me now but at the time I just cracked up. That's a phrase I want to remember - it might come in handy sometime.

I believe I mentioned my friend's grandson having surgery on his ear and that it was more simple than expected. (I believe this is his third surgery.) I decided to post a picture of him with his game ball and trophy. I'm also posting a pic of his younger sister. She is in her costume from her dance recital.

The mother of these children is one of my many "children" and I consider these children as members of my Little Ones Club.

I only slept about 4 hours last night. Here's hoping for more sleep tonight. As usual, thank you for stopping by.

My Day for Being Thankful

I'm repeating my response to the kind words in response to yesterday's post because it's important to me that you know I appreciate your kind words:

"Thanks everyone for the kind words. I never see myself as anything except an older woman who loves and cares about people. When anyone has been down as many roads as I have in the past 65 years you learn that compassion for your fellow person (being politically correct) is important. I've come to care for each and everyone of you and consider you my friend - I'm certainly yours."

I spent my early morning thinking about my best friend's grandson. He had surgery this morning. It was a follow-up to an earlier surgery to remove a tumor from inside his ear. All went well. There's no reason to believe that he'll have problems - there was no malignancy. For that we are more thankful than words can tell.

I would like to pass along the generous award that was given to me by Robbin at Ceder Chest of Dreams to you, my readers and supporters. I came to the blogg community not knowing what to expect. You made me feel welcome and part of an already established community. I never felt I had to prove myself or be anything other than the old woman that I am. There are times that I've given advice that wasn't solicited - you know old folks do that. You have always been kind in your response though I'm sure there have been times when you wished I'd just shut me trap. I see you as my support system. You listen when I complain and sympathize, laugh with me when I laugh, and even more tolerate my long posts about my kids and grandkids. In short you, my friends, are each and every one an important part of my life.

I Received an Award

Robbin over at Cedar Chest of Dreams passed this award along to me. It makes me proud to receive recognition from a blogger who I do so admire.

Robbin is facing many challenges in her life. She recently faced major surgery and is currently in the midst of related treatments which are unpleasant to say the least. Recently she also bore the grief that no parent should have to bear - the loss of a child. Still Robbin continues to have faith and move forward with love and determination. This is a lady who I have come to admire and value as a blogger friend. Visit her and you will find a wonderful lady with a passion for family, life, and nature. Thank you, Robbin, for this award. It's an honor to display it.

I wanted to acknowledge my award as soon as possible. I'll be back later with a followup. I've been up since 3 AM and need another cup of coffee.

What's in File 13?

Not much happening in my world. I haven't left the house since last Saturday and haven't felt that I'm house bound. Too much to do to be bored. I've been going through "stuff" and throwing most of it away. Over the years I've kept the most insignificant things that no longer mean anything to me. When I go over the rainbow bridge I don't want the kids to be burdened with sorting and cleaning. Now I don't have plans to cross the rainbow bridge for many years but I'd like a little time to enjoy having MUCH less "stuff" and clutter.

Pictures are everywhere - in envelopes, boxes, files - absolutely EVERYWHERE. I'm taking pains to label them if they will mean anything to the kids. Many of the pictures are from my school days. I'm sorting most of them and am going to send them to folks that will appreciate and find meaning in them. Pictures of flowers from forgotten gardens, landscapes, etc., are gracing file 13. I need a larger File 13. This one is getting pretty full.

OK, now you know what I'm up to. What are you doing today? Whatever it is I hope it makes you happy.

Monday, Monday

The "Upholstery Man" came with fabric samples and took the loveseat with him. I'm moving towards neutral colors for this round of upgrades. The day will come when Harry and I need to downsize even more and using neutrals will avoid decorating conflicts in the future. The loveseat will be back in about three weeks. At least it makes me feel that I'm about to get the ball rolling again. I've been floundering in the muck and mire of trying to make needed updates around here. When I loose my momentum it's really hard to get focused again.

The boys found an unused Flex Stone kit among some things I'm disposing of and asked about it. Bottom line: I'm going to get a couple of plain flower pots for them to "decorate" when they are here for playday. It took a lot of conversation and questions to reach the bottom line - you really don't want to hear about all that.

I need to get moving and make headway towards something productive and positive. Wish me luck - I need all the luck I can get.

Here's wishing everyone a pleasant Monday. Thanks for stopping by. Please visit again soon.

Once again I have to eat my words - it's not as though that doesn't happen often. I'm having the (as I called it) "sorry excuse for furniture" repaired and reupholstered. Several years ago I had a man and wife team upholster several pieces for me and they are still perfect - better than new, really. I recently recommended them to my friend and neighbor, Shirley. Today the fellow returned her sofa and four club chairs looking like new. Then it hit me - why on earth didn't I have them evaluate my loveseat to see if it's worth repairing and reupholstering. After evaluating the loveseat he pointed out where the problem is (it's the springs) and it's an easy fix. The frame is solid wood - well built. Needless to say I'm having the "sorry excuse for furniture" repaired and recovered. He'll pick it up next week and bring fabric samples. This won't take any longer than ordering a new loveseat and waiting for it to be delivered. I'm very happy with this arrangement.

The boys will be here in about 45 minutes and I have to be ready to play Nana. It's not like that's a problem - it's my favorite role. Well, except for being Harry's bestest buddy and sweetheart.

Call Me Shallow Mary

Earlier this evening there was something strange falling from the sky. Someone reliable said it was rain. Wow, just imagine that. . . rain! It was wonderful and we need more of the same.

Nothing interesting happened today. Harry went to the driving range and I imitated a lady of leisure until he got home. He brought a new fish for the large tank - a sailfin tang. It's a fairly large fish and seems glad to have room to swim. Someone had returned him to the fish store because their tank was too small. He'll have a comfy home with us - friends, food, and admiring children.

I'm beginning to shop for a piece of furniture to replace a loveseat I bought a few (very few) years ago. That sorry excuse for furniture was priced and described as "top of the line" from what I thought was a reputable manufacturer. I'll find a Flexsteel distributor and replace it with the tried and true. Lesson learned. I need seating for two (to accommodate our usual crowd) and am considering if I should get another loveseat or two chairs. Either would be acceptable and there is plenty of room for either even if they are a bit on the large size. As you can see I have no real problem. When I think of the things some of you are having to face, I'm ashamed of myself for placing so much emphasis on something so insignificant as furniture.

On that note I believe I'll close for today. I hope everyone made it through the day none the worse for wear. Take care. My best to each of you.

Sunday Fun

The day at Papa and Nana's was a happy one. We had Baby with us and he even allowed Mommy and Daddy to come with him. Below is the cutest picture of the day. Baby is well fed and all worn out.
After a big meal of grilled chicken made as only Papa can make it along with corn on the cob and salad Jesse and James had ice cream treats. Neither was interested in having their pictures taken but does Nana listen? You bet your bippy she doesn't. Here's proof.
Jesse gave Uncle Buddy a lesson in sword fighting. I don't believe Uncle Buddy was really into the minute but he was a good sport and that made Jesse happy. Isn't that what uncles are for?

Keith slipped away for a few quiet minutes with a book. There was lots of noise and confusion in the sunroom. I found him in the living room and snapped this picture.

Mary (DIL) and Harry can certainly carry their end of the conversation. These smiles were reserved especially for Baby. Who can blame them?

Joe wouldn't let me take his picture and when I tried he turned his head and closed his eyes. I have two options: 1) Post the picture I made anyway 2) Post a different picture that wasn't made today. I went with the second option. The cat is Mary's kitty, Shadow.

I couldn't close without posting this picture. Baby gave a look of concern when he was being "loaded" into his car seat.

Now for my closing line: Two or three of you commented that your houses were in disarray. Take a look at mine (in these pictures) and I think you'll feel much, much better.

Hope everyone is doing well. Rest well 'cause Monday's on the way!

Last Half of The Weekend

Each of the kids - young and old - enjoyed their 4th of July in their own way. Harry and I watched a little TV (nothing special) while sitting together on the sofa, waited for the rain shower, and then went to bed like good old farts. All that noise and big crowds are for the young folks. Our holiday will be tomorrow which is our regular gathering day. Harry will do the honors on the grill. I'll make a big fresh mixed fruit salad, fruit dip, salad, and a veggie. Mary will bring her special slaw and cornbread. The beer, sodas, fruit drinks, and various other liquid refreshment are already in-house. It should be a good day.

Harry and I watched the Nationwide race Friday night and will watch the Sprint cars race tonight. Daytona is a big weekend for NASCAR. I enjoy hearing the drivers interviewed especially during a rain delay. Those guys (for the most part) have wild senses of humor. It's also interesting to watch the wives who are watching the race. Kim Burton gets so excited and/or tense that she's her own show. One can believe that she is driving every inch of the race with hubby, Jeff. Then there are those drivers who have their lower lip dragging the ground because some "stupid driver" caused problems on the track. Never a dull moment if you just watch the action - not all of which is happening as the cars go 'round and 'round the track.

Time to lope off to find just the right fruit for my fruit salad production.

Thanks for stopping by. Y'all come back anytime.

Have a Safe and Happy

4th of July

The best to everyone who visits from our family to yours.

The High Point of My Day

In addition to live coral, we have a few critters in our reef tanks that you don't normally see in salt reef shops. Green Serpent Star, Red Brittle Star (he's bright red), Lady Slipper Coral, Tongue Coral, Blue Linkia star (he's very bright blue), a pistol shrimp, and a huge bristle worm to name a few.

Our largest star is named Forrest. (For Forrest Gump, don't ask why.). Get ready to say yeeewwww - creepy - or make any number of yucky comments. Forrest is a working member of the reef. He helps keep it clean and is always good for amazing visitors. Not often do I get a chance to photograph him because he's usually a nocturnal critter. Harry was feeding the tank and Forrest came out to investigate. Get ready here he comes . . . . . .

The underside of Forrest is where his mouth is located - and other things, too, for that matter. The strange long coral beside Forrest is the Tongue Coral.
His top side looks a little different. He's heading back into his little cave to sleep for awhile.

Now you've seen the high point of my day. It doesn't take much to amuse old ladies.

Have a wonderful day and thanks for stopping by.