I guess I don't need to tell you that there have been some recent changes to my blog, huh? Hope you like it, as I was kinda getting tired of the other background. It was getting old to me. There'll be more layout changes eventually as I get time, but technically there's been no real significant changes in the way things work. If you have any problems with it, I'll be happy to listen to your complaints! lol
Just figured I'd go ahead and warn you that more was to come!
Tuesday, August 17, 2010
"Words"
A few Sundays ago, Gregg text me on my way to church about some lyrics to a song he was going to use in his Sunday School lesson. Fortunately I was able to find them on the internet on my phone and save it to a location where he could retrieve and read them. I had saved them to my little home screen so I wouldn't lose their location. Since saving these lyrics, they have been sitting beside a little icon of another website that I frequent. The icons look so much alike that somehow I often manage to click on the opposite link of where I'm attempting to go. Every time these lyrics pop up, I re-read them, thinking to myself how well of job someone did in putting all of these "words" together. With these lyrics being read almost on a daily basis since that day, I was reminded of them in a real way yesterday while at work.
A young nurse I was working with, was involved in a casual conversation, along with myself, my boss, and our secretary. Somehow throughout the topics being discussed, it eventually led to our parents' discipline of us as children. It was a fun topic, to say the least.
As we all chatted about our memories of "spankings," etc.... the other nurse piped up and with an obvious change of expression from the laughter she had just been experiencing, made the statement, "I never got a spanking when I was a kid." The disbelief from the other three of us was notable. Then with a far off look in her eyes, she said, "No, my dad always verbally punished me and those are the most hurtful words I will never forget." Needless to say, we were all scrambling to figure out a graceful way to end this conversation and move on about our business. She said that usually after about an hour he would come with his head held low and apologize for the "words" he had just spewed at his daughters. She said "by the time I was 13, I finally told him that it was too late for apologies, those were words that were already "engraved" on my brain." My boss, the secretary, and I all agreed that we were much happier with our "spankings" because that pain was short lived, but the lesson was learned. And we were not left with the ever powerful memory of "strong words."
Sometimes I think we forget how powerful our words really are.....next time you are tempted to go on a verbal rant, remember this.......
"In a hundred different languages
They convey the thoughts of man
They can form a bond as strong as steel
Or break a golden band
They can disappear with one small wave
When written in the sand
Or endure 10000 years in stone
Engraved by God's own hand
Words
Oh their power is real
They can hurt or they can heal
Can't be touched but you can feel
Words
There is strength in every one
And when all is said and done
Wars are lost and battles won with words
Mightier then tempered swords
As they flow from the quill
With every stroke the letters formed
Can breath life or kill
With icy lips and tongues of fire
We burn or bring a chill
But when the truth is told
The rule is gold and universal still
With words.......
Oh their power is real They can hurt or they can heal
Can't be touched but you can feel Words
There is strength in every one And when all is said and done Wars are lost and battles won with words" (This song has been recorded by the group "Heirline" although, any place lyrics are found, there is no credit to the writer. I'm assuming it's Ernie Dawson since he writes most of their music.)
A young nurse I was working with, was involved in a casual conversation, along with myself, my boss, and our secretary. Somehow throughout the topics being discussed, it eventually led to our parents' discipline of us as children. It was a fun topic, to say the least.
As we all chatted about our memories of "spankings," etc.... the other nurse piped up and with an obvious change of expression from the laughter she had just been experiencing, made the statement, "I never got a spanking when I was a kid." The disbelief from the other three of us was notable. Then with a far off look in her eyes, she said, "No, my dad always verbally punished me and those are the most hurtful words I will never forget." Needless to say, we were all scrambling to figure out a graceful way to end this conversation and move on about our business. She said that usually after about an hour he would come with his head held low and apologize for the "words" he had just spewed at his daughters. She said "by the time I was 13, I finally told him that it was too late for apologies, those were words that were already "engraved" on my brain." My boss, the secretary, and I all agreed that we were much happier with our "spankings" because that pain was short lived, but the lesson was learned. And we were not left with the ever powerful memory of "strong words."
Sometimes I think we forget how powerful our words really are.....next time you are tempted to go on a verbal rant, remember this.......
"In a hundred different languages
They convey the thoughts of man
They can form a bond as strong as steel
Or break a golden band
They can disappear with one small wave
When written in the sand
Or endure 10000 years in stone
Engraved by God's own hand
Words
Oh their power is real
They can hurt or they can heal
Can't be touched but you can feel
Words
There is strength in every one
And when all is said and done
Wars are lost and battles won with words
Mightier then tempered swords
As they flow from the quill
With every stroke the letters formed
Can breath life or kill
With icy lips and tongues of fire
We burn or bring a chill
But when the truth is told
The rule is gold and universal still
With words.......
Oh their power is real They can hurt or they can heal
Can't be touched but you can feel Words
There is strength in every one And when all is said and done Wars are lost and battles won with words" (This song has been recorded by the group "Heirline" although, any place lyrics are found, there is no credit to the writer. I'm assuming it's Ernie Dawson since he writes most of their music.)
Friday, August 13, 2010
On the Other Side
This is very RAPIDLY becoming one of my absolute favorite songs. I have a flair for contemporary bluegrass from artists like the Isaacs and this quickly rising group named Dailey and Vincent. This particular duet is becoming one of the most awarded artists that Gospel and Bluegrass music has had in a while and is also becoming one of my favorites as well.
The reddish-blond haired guy, Jamie Dailey, is formerly of Doyle Lawson and Quicksilver, and was singing with them the first time I ever saw Quicksilver in Waynesboro, MS. He had an amazing voice. The other guy, Darrin Vincent, is the brother of the famous bluegrass diva, Rhonda Vincent. If you ever heard the Bill Gaither Bluegrass series, you heard her sing, along with Darrin. Needless to say they have some pretty interesting roots in bluegrass and are making a big name for themselves and stirring up some dust in the industry these days.
I think this song has a way of pulling you into it's magic and makes you wish that it wouldn't end. Even if no one else cares about it, my dad and brother-in-law, Don, will love it. Especially Don. We were both Quicksilver fans anyway, so this is right up our alley.
Enjoy.....and you might end up needing a tissue!
The reddish-blond haired guy, Jamie Dailey, is formerly of Doyle Lawson and Quicksilver, and was singing with them the first time I ever saw Quicksilver in Waynesboro, MS. He had an amazing voice. The other guy, Darrin Vincent, is the brother of the famous bluegrass diva, Rhonda Vincent. If you ever heard the Bill Gaither Bluegrass series, you heard her sing, along with Darrin. Needless to say they have some pretty interesting roots in bluegrass and are making a big name for themselves and stirring up some dust in the industry these days.
I think this song has a way of pulling you into it's magic and makes you wish that it wouldn't end. Even if no one else cares about it, my dad and brother-in-law, Don, will love it. Especially Don. We were both Quicksilver fans anyway, so this is right up our alley.
Enjoy.....and you might end up needing a tissue!
Thursday, August 12, 2010
Tuesday, August 10, 2010
Summertime Views
You know, as many things as I enjoy about the summer, there are a few things that I don't like. For starters, probably at the top of the list is the unbelievably, ungodly clothes that some people go out in public in. I won't link it, because of some of the content involved, but there's a website called "People of Walmart" that has some unbelievable pictures of some of the clothes people wear outside their homes (one of my close friends recently sent me a link with some unbelievable stuff on there). Thank God, but this is just beyond my comprehension. It would not even CROSS MY MIND to go out wearing some of the things people wear outside their front door.
I was recently in the doctor's office and this girl (I won't repeat what I imagined she was), but anyway, she had what she would consider a dress on that barely covered the tops of her thighs. In addition to the little frilly "thing" she was wearing, she also had some little purple suede boots that came to the top of her ankles that were just pathetic. Where do these people come up with this stuff? Anyway, the nurse who was escorting me down the hall turned around as we passed her and looked at me with her eyes as wide as saucers.....as soon as she shut the door in the room where I was to stay, she asked me if I could believe what we'd just seen! It did my heart good to know we were on the same page. We were feeling nothing but pity for the nurse having to take care of the other girl.
It's just more than I can take sometimes. Just for the record, if anyone thinks that I want to see them like this, they are badly mistaken - and if they think that others do, again, they are sadly mistaken. Anyway, I'll be absolutely thrilled to no end when fall and winter get back around so that these people will put some clothes back on!
Anyway, after my experience at the doctor and going through all the thoughts in my head about this dreaded "requirement" of the summer, after reading this comic strip, I could definitely relate! I read it in the actual Sunday comics in the paper and laughed my head off when I saw it - cause I was feeling his pain!! lol Also, go ahead and click on the comic strip and blow it up so you can actually read it. The print is kinda small, and I don't want you to miss it! It's way funny!
I was recently in the doctor's office and this girl (I won't repeat what I imagined she was), but anyway, she had what she would consider a dress on that barely covered the tops of her thighs. In addition to the little frilly "thing" she was wearing, she also had some little purple suede boots that came to the top of her ankles that were just pathetic. Where do these people come up with this stuff? Anyway, the nurse who was escorting me down the hall turned around as we passed her and looked at me with her eyes as wide as saucers.....as soon as she shut the door in the room where I was to stay, she asked me if I could believe what we'd just seen! It did my heart good to know we were on the same page. We were feeling nothing but pity for the nurse having to take care of the other girl.
It's just more than I can take sometimes. Just for the record, if anyone thinks that I want to see them like this, they are badly mistaken - and if they think that others do, again, they are sadly mistaken. Anyway, I'll be absolutely thrilled to no end when fall and winter get back around so that these people will put some clothes back on!
Anyway, after my experience at the doctor and going through all the thoughts in my head about this dreaded "requirement" of the summer, after reading this comic strip, I could definitely relate! I read it in the actual Sunday comics in the paper and laughed my head off when I saw it - cause I was feeling his pain!! lol Also, go ahead and click on the comic strip and blow it up so you can actually read it. The print is kinda small, and I don't want you to miss it! It's way funny!
Tuesday, August 3, 2010
Read Up!!
Ok, I rarely ever do this. So, let's just say it's the nurse coming out in me.
Btw, before I head off on my little rant, Jeremy is improving. He still feels pretty weak and painful, but is definitely improving. Yesterday as I was talking to his surgeon's nurse and reported that he was improving he began throwing his hands in the air and questioning me and ranting, "I'm dying over here!" lol! So, when he can argue the point, he's definitely improving! If you know Jeremy well at all, arguing any point, whether right or wrong, is his specialty! :-) I love him anyway!! However, he did NOT argue with me when I told her that I thought this was a little more difficult than he had anticipated and that he thought he'd bounce right back! But he is actually out of the bed now, so this is good. On Saturday, he was asking me and his brothers to find someone to decapitate him. Now, I think he's actually glad he kept his head!
Now, that you're updated. I'll continue to the reason for my post......
This is to all of those individuals who hear of a good vitamin or supplement and are eager to run out and try it. Personally, I'm petrified to take supplements. First of all, because I know some have the ability to alter drug screens, and being that those are done randomly at my work, I'm not in any way going to chance that!! I like my job WAY too much for that.
Secondly, I am very aware that just because a vitamin or supplement is on the market, does not mean that it has been approved by the FDA and may be someone's attempt at making another dollar - which is the case of many of the supplements sold on commercials that people spend tons of money on!!
There are always articles on the hazards of some supplements, while some may boost some certain aspects of the body, sometimes, they pull other nutrients from vital areas to do their job, in the end, causing more harm than good........(and yes, that was a very long sentence.)
So, to cut to the chase, this article made headlines today on Yahoo News about supplements........being that I find it to be very applicable, I thought I'd post it. So, HERE's the link, but to bring out the importance of the article, I'll point out the highlights!
This is from the article, "Dangerous Supplements", from Consumer Reports - posted today on Yahoo news....
"We have identified a dozen supplement ingredients that we think consumers should avoid because of health risks, including cardiovascular, liver, and kidney problems. We found products with those ingredients readily available in stores and online. "
"Because of inadequate quality control and inspection, supplements contaminated with heavy metals, pesticides, or prescription drugs have been sold to unsuspecting consumers. And FDA rules covering manufacturing quality don’t apply to the companies that supply herbs, vitamins, and other raw ingredients."
The Dirty Dozen:
"To come up with our dozen finalists, we also considered factors such as whether the ingredients were effective for their purported uses and how readily available they were to consumers. We then shopped for them online and in stores near our Yonkers, N.Y., headquarters and easily found all of them for sale in June 2010.
So, I NEVER take a supplement until I run it by at least two of my physicians and usually more that I run into in the hospital. That leads me to the point that the only thing I've been approved to take is CoQ10 that I can get off the counter, and I don't take it every day.....However, never in this life, will I EVER buy products that come from any type of commercial, or someone selling "snake oil." That's about what it boils down to.....
I'm not trying to make you paranoid, but then again, I am.....so be careful....at least I warned you!!
Btw, before I head off on my little rant, Jeremy is improving. He still feels pretty weak and painful, but is definitely improving. Yesterday as I was talking to his surgeon's nurse and reported that he was improving he began throwing his hands in the air and questioning me and ranting, "I'm dying over here!" lol! So, when he can argue the point, he's definitely improving! If you know Jeremy well at all, arguing any point, whether right or wrong, is his specialty! :-) I love him anyway!! However, he did NOT argue with me when I told her that I thought this was a little more difficult than he had anticipated and that he thought he'd bounce right back! But he is actually out of the bed now, so this is good. On Saturday, he was asking me and his brothers to find someone to decapitate him. Now, I think he's actually glad he kept his head!
Now, that you're updated. I'll continue to the reason for my post......
This is to all of those individuals who hear of a good vitamin or supplement and are eager to run out and try it. Personally, I'm petrified to take supplements. First of all, because I know some have the ability to alter drug screens, and being that those are done randomly at my work, I'm not in any way going to chance that!! I like my job WAY too much for that.
Secondly, I am very aware that just because a vitamin or supplement is on the market, does not mean that it has been approved by the FDA and may be someone's attempt at making another dollar - which is the case of many of the supplements sold on commercials that people spend tons of money on!!
There are always articles on the hazards of some supplements, while some may boost some certain aspects of the body, sometimes, they pull other nutrients from vital areas to do their job, in the end, causing more harm than good........(and yes, that was a very long sentence.)
So, to cut to the chase, this article made headlines today on Yahoo News about supplements........being that I find it to be very applicable, I thought I'd post it. So, HERE's the link, but to bring out the importance of the article, I'll point out the highlights!
This is from the article, "Dangerous Supplements", from Consumer Reports - posted today on Yahoo news....
"We have identified a dozen supplement ingredients that we think consumers should avoid because of health risks, including cardiovascular, liver, and kidney problems. We found products with those ingredients readily available in stores and online. "
"Because of inadequate quality control and inspection, supplements contaminated with heavy metals, pesticides, or prescription drugs have been sold to unsuspecting consumers. And FDA rules covering manufacturing quality don’t apply to the companies that supply herbs, vitamins, and other raw ingredients."
The Dirty Dozen:
"To come up with our dozen finalists, we also considered factors such as whether the ingredients were effective for their purported uses and how readily available they were to consumers. We then shopped for them online and in stores near our Yonkers, N.Y., headquarters and easily found all of them for sale in June 2010.
The dozen are aconite, bitter orange, chaparral, colloidal silver, coltsfoot, comfrey, country mallow, germanium, greater celandine, kava, lobelia, and yohimbe. The FDA has warned about at least eight of them, some as long ago as 1993. "
So, I NEVER take a supplement until I run it by at least two of my physicians and usually more that I run into in the hospital. That leads me to the point that the only thing I've been approved to take is CoQ10 that I can get off the counter, and I don't take it every day.....However, never in this life, will I EVER buy products that come from any type of commercial, or someone selling "snake oil." That's about what it boils down to.....
I'm not trying to make you paranoid, but then again, I am.....so be careful....at least I warned you!!
Friday, July 30, 2010
Update on Jeremy
As I intended to do, I deleted all the frequent updating from Jeremy's surgery yesterday. It just wasn't something I wanted to have everyone reading - however, unfortunately in doing so, I had to delete a few comments. Some well wishing - some comical!
Anyway, Jeremy is at home recovering now. Down time will hopefully be 10-14 days. After that, I think he'll begin to feel better and start life without his tonsils! I'm hopeful that he will notice a significant difference.
So, he's doing as well as he can for now, and taking advantage of the time to sleep! Interestingly, he has some pretty cool neon blue stitches in the top of his mouth. Pain wise, he says he doesn't hurt until he needs to swallow - and it is visibly obvious that having to do that jolts him to his very core!!
Anyway, Jeremy is at home recovering now. Down time will hopefully be 10-14 days. After that, I think he'll begin to feel better and start life without his tonsils! I'm hopeful that he will notice a significant difference.
So, he's doing as well as he can for now, and taking advantage of the time to sleep! Interestingly, he has some pretty cool neon blue stitches in the top of his mouth. Pain wise, he says he doesn't hurt until he needs to swallow - and it is visibly obvious that having to do that jolts him to his very core!!
Wednesday, July 28, 2010
For Mama
My mom is in Ohio visiting with her parents. She's requesting recent pictures for my grandmother, so here's a few newer snapshots that I've taken.
Just waking up! Addison and Shirley Temple (aka Abby Long) :-)
Just waking up! Addison and Shirley Temple (aka Abby Long) :-)
Tuesday, July 27, 2010
SLOW DOWN, TIME
I mentioned a post or two ago about my recent trip to Jersey. I can't believe a week and a half has already passed, before I got to sit down and write about it.
So, to tell you about the event, it was the post-wedding reception of my "little brother" Jared Tinsley. He married a couple of weeks ago, a sweet little gal named Meranda from Indiana. If you need more details, you'll have to ask Teresa. I did not know her, but got to spend a few minutes getting to know her at the reception, and from our conversations, I think that Jared snagged a good one. And as Laura would say, "Teresa finally got her a girl!" As far as the event itself, it was a beautiful occasion, decorated to a hilt! And what else could you expect! We're talking Teresa's kid here!
I wasn't there but just a few minutes and Jared came over to where I was standing, hugged my neck and took me over to meet his bride. We immediately became
friends as we shared our nauseating nervousness at being there. Obviously she had tons more reasons to be nervous than myself, but I was walking in to a crowd of people where I knew every face, but had not seen them in YEARS! Some of them close to 7 years since I'd seen. It was an overwhelming sense of nerves that came over me as I walked in. Anyway, Jared introduced us and I instantly liked her. I was introduced as his big sister from Savannah. Laughingly after we had met, he put his arm on my shoulder and asked me what I thought about his bride. I was quick to reassure him and then he let me know that he knew I'd tell him exactly what I thought. He reminded me that I had on more than one occasion (although not in front of them) let him know exactly how I felt about his previous "girlfriends" - one in particular - I showed him little mercy where she was concerned, and lo and behold, if she didn't turn around and break his heart right in half.
Anyway, I'm tickled pink he's finally moved on to pursue his chosen path in life, but man, I'm feeling OLD!! I can still see those three little rascals in the back of a light blue mini van with drum sticks flying everywhere, music blaring, and seeing what stunt they could pull next to trigger squeals from me or their mother. One of the funniest things I remember was one weekend before we went off, they had all three just gotten a crew cut. Along with that crew cut, came some type of "gel stick" to make their hair spike. Matthew was spiking his hair with that stick every 3 minutes. He didn't let go of that little stick the entire way to our destination. He had little white balls of gel caked in his hair by the time we got to where we were going. I still laugh thinking about that. And now they're all "growed up!" I just wish time would slow down. It's overwhelming me!!
Speaking of time, this morning I was brushing my teeth and Addison was in the other room playing. All of a sudden she came barreling into the bathroom as if something was after her. She came to a screeching halt right in front of me and looked up with her eyes just glistening with excitement....trying to ask me a question so fast, I could barely keep up with her. This is what she said, "Hey Mommy, I'm gonna be 4 soon, ain't I?" I shook my head, because I couldn't answer with my toothbrush in my mouth. After she got my answer, she said, "And, and.... after I turn 4, then I'm gonna be 5, right?" Same answer! She threw her hands in the air and started yelling YYYYAAAAAYYYYY!!!!! as she flew out of the bathroom as quickly as she had come flying in. I was tempted to yell, "SLOW DOWN, TIME!!"
I'm way too young for this! lol!!
So, to tell you about the event, it was the post-wedding reception of my "little brother" Jared Tinsley. He married a couple of weeks ago, a sweet little gal named Meranda from Indiana. If you need more details, you'll have to ask Teresa. I did not know her, but got to spend a few minutes getting to know her at the reception, and from our conversations, I think that Jared snagged a good one. And as Laura would say, "Teresa finally got her a girl!" As far as the event itself, it was a beautiful occasion, decorated to a hilt! And what else could you expect! We're talking Teresa's kid here!
I wasn't there but just a few minutes and Jared came over to where I was standing, hugged my neck and took me over to meet his bride. We immediately became
friends as we shared our nauseating nervousness at being there. Obviously she had tons more reasons to be nervous than myself, but I was walking in to a crowd of people where I knew every face, but had not seen them in YEARS! Some of them close to 7 years since I'd seen. It was an overwhelming sense of nerves that came over me as I walked in. Anyway, Jared introduced us and I instantly liked her. I was introduced as his big sister from Savannah. Laughingly after we had met, he put his arm on my shoulder and asked me what I thought about his bride. I was quick to reassure him and then he let me know that he knew I'd tell him exactly what I thought. He reminded me that I had on more than one occasion (although not in front of them) let him know exactly how I felt about his previous "girlfriends" - one in particular - I showed him little mercy where she was concerned, and lo and behold, if she didn't turn around and break his heart right in half.Anyway, I'm tickled pink he's finally moved on to pursue his chosen path in life, but man, I'm feeling OLD!! I can still see those three little rascals in the back of a light blue mini van with drum sticks flying everywhere, music blaring, and seeing what stunt they could pull next to trigger squeals from me or their mother. One of the funniest things I remember was one weekend before we went off, they had all three just gotten a crew cut. Along with that crew cut, came some type of "gel stick" to make their hair spike. Matthew was spiking his hair with that stick every 3 minutes. He didn't let go of that little stick the entire way to our destination. He had little white balls of gel caked in his hair by the time we got to where we were going. I still laugh thinking about that. And now they're all "growed up!" I just wish time would slow down. It's overwhelming me!!
Speaking of time, this morning I was brushing my teeth and Addison was in the other room playing. All of a sudden she came barreling into the bathroom as if something was after her. She came to a screeching halt right in front of me and looked up with her eyes just glistening with excitement....trying to ask me a question so fast, I could barely keep up with her. This is what she said, "Hey Mommy, I'm gonna be 4 soon, ain't I?" I shook my head, because I couldn't answer with my toothbrush in my mouth. After she got my answer, she said, "And, and.... after I turn 4, then I'm gonna be 5, right?" Same answer! She threw her hands in the air and started yelling YYYYAAAAAYYYYY!!!!! as she flew out of the bathroom as quickly as she had come flying in. I was tempted to yell, "SLOW DOWN, TIME!!"
I'm way too young for this! lol!!
Thursday, July 22, 2010
Poor Abe!
As we all know, GEICO is known for all of it's intriguing little commercials with the gecko. I was getting ready to look at a news clip online the other day and this commercial was before it. It just cracked me up. I found it on YouTube. Make sure the volume is up so you can hear what they say....
LOL!!LOL!!
LOL!!LOL!!
Something I Believe!
Back in December, at the very end of the year, I wrote a post called "Little Dirt Roads." This link will take you back to it, just in case you never read it. I was reminded of that little story this past weekend after an event occurred to me on my way home from Jersey.
(I'll elaborate on my trip to Jersey in my next post - haven't gotten a chance to sit down yet and write it all down -until now)
Anyway, my experience started a few minutes after I left the reception at the church there in Jersey. I had talked to Laura on the phone and had mentioned that they had just opened up a new El Charro in Covington, GA. El Charro is at the top of my list of favorite Mexican restaurants, in addition to the host of memories that go along with the good food from there. It was a frequent eating place for us when we lived there, so it has many holds on me! :-)
Just out of pure sentiment and desire to see the new restaurant, I began this battle in my head and my heart as to whether I should run in quickly and grab one of my favorite items there and then hit the road. I had in my head, if I did that, it would take approximately 20 minutes and would delay me that long in getting home.
Therefore, I fought a "mental battle" the whole 10 miles there. When I was almost there, I decided I'd journey on home. As I began to pass the driveway to El Charro, I found myself slamming on the brakes and whipping up into the parking lot. I talked out loud to myself at that moment for the "on the whim" decision I'd made......my little conversation to myself went something like this....."I don't know why in the world I just did that. Glad no one was behind me. I'm not even starving and I act like this is something I have to do!"
I got out, went in, marveled a little over the new scene and took my seat alone in a booth for a few minutes to take it all in and enjoy my little $3 nacho cheese and beef tostada. As I sat there attempting not to scarf down my food in attempt to get back on the road ASAP, I sat there texting Laura, rubbing in the fact of where I was sitting. She was NOT happy with me, to say the least. I was feeling on top of the world. It was an unusually peaceful feeling. I was thinking that it was because I was getting to eat without having to constantly pick up taco pieces falling off of Addison's fork between her plate and her mouth!
As I sat there enjoying the serenity, I looked at my clock to see how much time I had wasted on my trip home to stop there. It was exactly 24 minutes. I paid and left.
The trip was going well, and the clouds were starting to gather pretty heavily ahead of me. I called Sis. Arlene Head, who I knew had not too long ahead of me, traveled the same route that I was headed. I asked her if she had experienced rain on her journey and that it was looking like I might get myself into some pretty quickly. She warned me that there was definitely rain ahead and they had just come out of it.
I hung up the phone and was prepared for whatever was coming. I was still feeling "peaceful." It began to pour rain and I was focused on what was happening around me. Barely able to see ahead of me. After I traveled in some very hard rain for about 15 minutes, it stopped as quickly as it had started. About 5-10 minutes out of the rain, I was brought to a sudden stop at the top of a hill. Staring me in the face was multiple firetrucks, cop cars, and emergency personnel, and good Samaritans everywhere. Directly on the road in my lane ahead of me was a car flipped over and in the ditch to the right was a mini van - which they had covered with a blue tarp - and as I turned around was able to see the body in the van through the window that they had yet to pull out.
I turned around at the policeman's instruction and thankfully had GPS in my phone to get me on an alternate route. As I drove off the opposite way, it was almost as if I had this small whisper to my heart that let me know that I had been in the shelter of an Unseen Hand. 20 minutes ago, had I been where I now sat, I might not be writing this story.
And as corny as it may sound, my little 24 minute enjoyable meal at El Charro, I believe, became another memorable "Dirt Road" in my life. Just wanted to tell you about it.
(I'll elaborate on my trip to Jersey in my next post - haven't gotten a chance to sit down yet and write it all down -until now)
Anyway, my experience started a few minutes after I left the reception at the church there in Jersey. I had talked to Laura on the phone and had mentioned that they had just opened up a new El Charro in Covington, GA. El Charro is at the top of my list of favorite Mexican restaurants, in addition to the host of memories that go along with the good food from there. It was a frequent eating place for us when we lived there, so it has many holds on me! :-)
Just out of pure sentiment and desire to see the new restaurant, I began this battle in my head and my heart as to whether I should run in quickly and grab one of my favorite items there and then hit the road. I had in my head, if I did that, it would take approximately 20 minutes and would delay me that long in getting home.
Therefore, I fought a "mental battle" the whole 10 miles there. When I was almost there, I decided I'd journey on home. As I began to pass the driveway to El Charro, I found myself slamming on the brakes and whipping up into the parking lot. I talked out loud to myself at that moment for the "on the whim" decision I'd made......my little conversation to myself went something like this....."I don't know why in the world I just did that. Glad no one was behind me. I'm not even starving and I act like this is something I have to do!"
I got out, went in, marveled a little over the new scene and took my seat alone in a booth for a few minutes to take it all in and enjoy my little $3 nacho cheese and beef tostada. As I sat there attempting not to scarf down my food in attempt to get back on the road ASAP, I sat there texting Laura, rubbing in the fact of where I was sitting. She was NOT happy with me, to say the least. I was feeling on top of the world. It was an unusually peaceful feeling. I was thinking that it was because I was getting to eat without having to constantly pick up taco pieces falling off of Addison's fork between her plate and her mouth!
As I sat there enjoying the serenity, I looked at my clock to see how much time I had wasted on my trip home to stop there. It was exactly 24 minutes. I paid and left.
The trip was going well, and the clouds were starting to gather pretty heavily ahead of me. I called Sis. Arlene Head, who I knew had not too long ahead of me, traveled the same route that I was headed. I asked her if she had experienced rain on her journey and that it was looking like I might get myself into some pretty quickly. She warned me that there was definitely rain ahead and they had just come out of it.
I hung up the phone and was prepared for whatever was coming. I was still feeling "peaceful." It began to pour rain and I was focused on what was happening around me. Barely able to see ahead of me. After I traveled in some very hard rain for about 15 minutes, it stopped as quickly as it had started. About 5-10 minutes out of the rain, I was brought to a sudden stop at the top of a hill. Staring me in the face was multiple firetrucks, cop cars, and emergency personnel, and good Samaritans everywhere. Directly on the road in my lane ahead of me was a car flipped over and in the ditch to the right was a mini van - which they had covered with a blue tarp - and as I turned around was able to see the body in the van through the window that they had yet to pull out.
I turned around at the policeman's instruction and thankfully had GPS in my phone to get me on an alternate route. As I drove off the opposite way, it was almost as if I had this small whisper to my heart that let me know that I had been in the shelter of an Unseen Hand. 20 minutes ago, had I been where I now sat, I might not be writing this story.
And as corny as it may sound, my little 24 minute enjoyable meal at El Charro, I believe, became another memorable "Dirt Road" in my life. Just wanted to tell you about it.
Tuesday, July 20, 2010
I Have Rights!
My brother in law, Don, sent this to me! No description needed! If you can't make out what this sign says, click on it, and enlarge it.
Friday, July 16, 2010
For My Mom and Dad
I was reminded of this song yesterday. I got lucky and happened upon it. This is for my Mom and Dad. They haven't been able to hear the records for quite some time (I'm certain of that because they are sitting in my bedroom), so this is for them. May the memories flood your soul!
Unless I am badly mistaken, this was always one of my Mom's favorite songs. If it wasn't, it sure got played about as often, when I was a kid, as I play Priscilla McGruder at my house. And now, the memory is a very sweet one for me. I love this song! Laura get the Kleenex out. I promise you'll need it.
Unless I am badly mistaken, this was always one of my Mom's favorite songs. If it wasn't, it sure got played about as often, when I was a kid, as I play Priscilla McGruder at my house. And now, the memory is a very sweet one for me. I love this song! Laura get the Kleenex out. I promise you'll need it.
My Detailed Friend
After you read what is about to be posted, you will understand why I gave the post the name that I did.
Throughout the process of getting my new blog together, I met a charming friend who was one of the first people to help me out. She allowed me to publish a tribute she had written for Priscilla on the same day I had - the day after she had passed away.
Ever since the initial email to her, we have found that we have quite a bit in common and I actually stumbled upon her last year at NQC. For fear of intruding into her personal space while she was writing, I did not approach her, but very vividly remember wondering what had her so captivated as she wrote in a notebook. Since I've gotten to know her a little bit, I now know the kind of things she was putting in that notebook. I have found her to be one of the most inspiring individuals I've had the pleasure to ever become acquainted with.
We have found that one thing we have in common is our love for "details." Jeremy gives me a hard time, all the time, for this trait. Sometimes I tell him it is a "professional" thing. Details are what make my job a success or a failure.
On Wednesday, my "detail friend" (lol) whose actual name is Sony, posted on her blog, a very inspiring post regarding details! I want you to read it. Please read it! I love it! (if you click on "a very inspiring post," it will take you there.
Throughout the process of getting my new blog together, I met a charming friend who was one of the first people to help me out. She allowed me to publish a tribute she had written for Priscilla on the same day I had - the day after she had passed away.
Ever since the initial email to her, we have found that we have quite a bit in common and I actually stumbled upon her last year at NQC. For fear of intruding into her personal space while she was writing, I did not approach her, but very vividly remember wondering what had her so captivated as she wrote in a notebook. Since I've gotten to know her a little bit, I now know the kind of things she was putting in that notebook. I have found her to be one of the most inspiring individuals I've had the pleasure to ever become acquainted with.
We have found that one thing we have in common is our love for "details." Jeremy gives me a hard time, all the time, for this trait. Sometimes I tell him it is a "professional" thing. Details are what make my job a success or a failure.
On Wednesday, my "detail friend" (lol) whose actual name is Sony, posted on her blog, a very inspiring post regarding details! I want you to read it. Please read it! I love it! (if you click on "a very inspiring post," it will take you there.
Thursday, July 15, 2010
It's Personal
I am working on a brand new project, and once you see it, you'll understand why I've not been as busy with this site as I normally am.
I won't take much time to explain - and some won't even care to go look at it, but if you know anything about me, you know this is something that I care a great deal about. This is a very personal project to me.
If you follow this link to my new blog, you will understand why I feel this way. So far, I've had several individuals stop in. Some have left notes, and I still have promises of things to come in. I hate to say it this way, but I'm almost holding my breath. Everyone with promises, says they will get it as soon as they get a minute's break. We'll see.
I won't take much time to explain - and some won't even care to go look at it, but if you know anything about me, you know this is something that I care a great deal about. This is a very personal project to me.
If you follow this link to my new blog, you will understand why I feel this way. So far, I've had several individuals stop in. Some have left notes, and I still have promises of things to come in. I hate to say it this way, but I'm almost holding my breath. Everyone with promises, says they will get it as soon as they get a minute's break. We'll see.
Monday, July 12, 2010
The Power of Determination
When I was in nursing school, I was constantly looking for sources of written encouragement to give a little bit more determination - because some days, quitting looked like a better option than finishing.....especially during the Mother / Baby days. I hated the maternity section of nursing school. Hated every minute of it!
One day, I ran across this little fable and it inspired me.....I typed it out on my computer in a artsy form and pinned it right above my desk in my little rickety house where I lived during college. Sometimes at midnight while I was sitting there studying for exams, it would occur to me that this story was sitting above my head. Somehow, every time I read it, I had a little bit more energy - and the will to study a little bit longer.
I ran across it in my scrapbook a few days ago. I totally forgot I kept it. So, maybe it can inspire you.
One day, I ran across this little fable and it inspired me.....I typed it out on my computer in a artsy form and pinned it right above my desk in my little rickety house where I lived during college. Sometimes at midnight while I was sitting there studying for exams, it would occur to me that this story was sitting above my head. Somehow, every time I read it, I had a little bit more energy - and the will to study a little bit longer.
I ran across it in my scrapbook a few days ago. I totally forgot I kept it. So, maybe it can inspire you.
Two frogs fell into a can of cream
----or so I 've heard it told----
The sides of the can were shiny and steep,
the cream was deep and cold
"Oh, what's the use?" said number 1
"Tis fate - No help's around--
Good-bye my friend! Good-bye sad world!"
and weep still, he drowned.
But Number 2 of sterner stuff,
dog paddled in surprise,
the while he wiped his creamy face
and dried his creamy eyes.
"I'll swim awhile, at least," he said
----or so it has been said----
"It wouldn't really help the world
if one more frog was dead!"
An hour or two he kicked and swam-
not once he stopped to mutter
But kicked and swam, and swam and kicked,
then hopped out via BUTTER!
----or so I 've heard it told----
The sides of the can were shiny and steep,
the cream was deep and cold
"Oh, what's the use?" said number 1
"Tis fate - No help's around--
Good-bye my friend! Good-bye sad world!"
and weep still, he drowned.
But Number 2 of sterner stuff,
dog paddled in surprise,
the while he wiped his creamy face
and dried his creamy eyes.
"I'll swim awhile, at least," he said
----or so it has been said----
"It wouldn't really help the world
if one more frog was dead!"
An hour or two he kicked and swam-
not once he stopped to mutter
But kicked and swam, and swam and kicked,
then hopped out via BUTTER!
Thursday, July 8, 2010
My Patriotic Side
I know it's been one of those crazy weeks for everyone. Most people were off Monday for the July 4th weekend, so there were parties to attend, vacations to take, home improvements to be done, and all kinds of other stuff going on.
I was kinda busy myself and have continued to remain busy this past week, therefore not getting the chance to get on here and post any new items. Especially when July 4th was here.....but I want you to know that I am a very proud American. The idea of traveling to any other land just gives me the "willies." I'm not that adventurous, so I'm content where I am.
Anyway, since I've been kinda preoccupied, and not blogging, I ran across something that I wanted to post. It's one of those things that almost makes you cry, makes you smile, and makes you breathe easier. Not sure how it has those capabilities, but it just is a great reminder of why I love America. I'm sure there are some that would argue that the Gaither Vocal Band do a better rendition of this, but this one is my favorite.
This is from my patriotic side of life.......
And just in case you have any trouble figuring out the words he's saying the first few lines, the lyrics are :
Oh beautiful, for heroes proved,
In liberating strife,
Who more than self, our country loved,
And mercy more than life,
America, America, may God thy gold refine,
Till all success be nobleness
And every gain devined.
I was kinda busy myself and have continued to remain busy this past week, therefore not getting the chance to get on here and post any new items. Especially when July 4th was here.....but I want you to know that I am a very proud American. The idea of traveling to any other land just gives me the "willies." I'm not that adventurous, so I'm content where I am.
Anyway, since I've been kinda preoccupied, and not blogging, I ran across something that I wanted to post. It's one of those things that almost makes you cry, makes you smile, and makes you breathe easier. Not sure how it has those capabilities, but it just is a great reminder of why I love America. I'm sure there are some that would argue that the Gaither Vocal Band do a better rendition of this, but this one is my favorite.
This is from my patriotic side of life.......
And just in case you have any trouble figuring out the words he's saying the first few lines, the lyrics are :
Oh beautiful, for heroes proved,
In liberating strife,
Who more than self, our country loved,
And mercy more than life,
America, America, may God thy gold refine,
Till all success be nobleness
And every gain devined.
Thursday, July 1, 2010
The Transformation
As you know, we rarely have a time when we don't have a project of some sort in progress. This week I've been without Addison, so I've gotten some serious stuff done.....well one serious thing done that is next to impossible with little hands who love paint as much as hers do - hanging around. So, there are no little fingerprints anywhere in this project.
Mom is asking for pictures, so here is the almost completed task. It is lacking the beautiful white 3 inch chair rail that will make the whole thing POP! Like it's not already with the red. Much to my surprise, my hubby has not had one negative word to say about it. For that I'm so grateful! Sometimes, my ideas can be a little over the top, but this one has gone over well. It also helps that my furniture is very neutral with no color.....so I assure you, some was needed. But the whole wall being red would have been a little too much. This has been the perfect combo for us. It gives us just the "cozy" and "warm" feel I was looking for.
So here are my before and after pictures. BTW, every wall was painted the same color in our house for a fast move. We didn't take the time to plan a million different colors before moving in, so this is a work in progress. But this transformation has just been amazing and it makes me smile every time I look at it. I am now past my fear of color! Looking at the older pictures, I simply cannot believe I tolerated that bland look as long as I did - mind you, I had taken everything off the walls before I snapped the pics, but still.......
(by the way, I see / realize that my couch was not centered under the picture....it has since been readjusted!) lol
Mom is asking for pictures, so here is the almost completed task. It is lacking the beautiful white 3 inch chair rail that will make the whole thing POP! Like it's not already with the red. Much to my surprise, my hubby has not had one negative word to say about it. For that I'm so grateful! Sometimes, my ideas can be a little over the top, but this one has gone over well. It also helps that my furniture is very neutral with no color.....so I assure you, some was needed. But the whole wall being red would have been a little too much. This has been the perfect combo for us. It gives us just the "cozy" and "warm" feel I was looking for.
So here are my before and after pictures. BTW, every wall was painted the same color in our house for a fast move. We didn't take the time to plan a million different colors before moving in, so this is a work in progress. But this transformation has just been amazing and it makes me smile every time I look at it. I am now past my fear of color! Looking at the older pictures, I simply cannot believe I tolerated that bland look as long as I did - mind you, I had taken everything off the walls before I snapped the pics, but still.......
(by the way, I see / realize that my couch was not centered under the picture....it has since been readjusted!) lol
Tuesday, June 29, 2010
Monday, June 28, 2010
A Little Bit About Helen
Ok, so I've never been to Helen until this weekend, as I've mentioned earlier, so I didn't know exactly what to expect. What I did know before I got there was that it was a little town tucked into the Blue Ridge Mountains, it was converted from a little mountain town into a replica of an Alpine Village known as Bavaria.
There is quite a bit of German heritage - mixed with a little Swiss Swedish, and Dutch history as well. I am intrigued with this type of stuff, so needless to say, it was a great learning experience for me. Thank goodness for our iPhones. We put them to good use this weekend discovering the places we were learning of.
In my next post I will uncover one of the keys that unlocked a few of the questions we were having trouble with as far as our "history" was concerned. It was, in my opinion, one of the most unique and interesting experiences of my recent life. I learned so much.
Anyway, one of the things that makes Helen unique is that although it has it's share of "mountain decor" there is that German replica thingy that makes it just really cool. Like this view when you drive around that curve and into the city limits. It's like all of a sudden you crossed the border and find yourself in this awesome Bavarian town on the other side of the world.
Everything from the churches to the playgrounds and parks bear its resemblance. The hotels, the restaurants, the strip malls......you name it. I also took a picture of my favorite street. I have an old interest in this culture. Only thing is, from what we learned, you don't just cross the river and get to Bavaria. It's located between two high peaks of the Alps! I got a picture to prove it....but not on this post. This one is just to show you just how cool it is to cross that border and step into another culture.....Instantly!
This was our hotel.
There is quite a bit of German heritage - mixed with a little Swiss Swedish, and Dutch history as well. I am intrigued with this type of stuff, so needless to say, it was a great learning experience for me. Thank goodness for our iPhones. We put them to good use this weekend discovering the places we were learning of.
In my next post I will uncover one of the keys that unlocked a few of the questions we were having trouble with as far as our "history" was concerned. It was, in my opinion, one of the most unique and interesting experiences of my recent life. I learned so much.
Anyway, one of the things that makes Helen unique is that although it has it's share of "mountain decor" there is that German replica thingy that makes it just really cool. Like this view when you drive around that curve and into the city limits. It's like all of a sudden you crossed the border and find yourself in this awesome Bavarian town on the other side of the world.
Everything from the churches to the playgrounds and parks bear its resemblance. The hotels, the restaurants, the strip malls......you name it. I also took a picture of my favorite street. I have an old interest in this culture. Only thing is, from what we learned, you don't just cross the river and get to Bavaria. It's located between two high peaks of the Alps! I got a picture to prove it....but not on this post. This one is just to show you just how cool it is to cross that border and step into another culture.....Instantly! 
This was our hotel.
Elaboration on Details
So, now that I have my computer back, I plan to post some pictures from our recent trip to Helen, GA and the Blue Ridge Mountains. We arrived back home around 5 p.m. Monday evening.
It was a very enjoyable getaway. Mom has Addison, so we got to take a few hikes we wouldn't have been able to take if we'd had here.....like the half mile straight up a mountain to see Anna Ruby Falls outside of Helen.
Quite a spectacular site, I must say.....but about two steps up the incline I was beginning to wonder if we were making a bright decision about heading up there.....especially after reading the entrance warning that was bold and had big letters that read..."CAUTION - this is a natural habitat for copperheads and rattlesnakes.....do not mess with them and they will not mess with you!"
Let me tell you, this is one soul they don't have to worry about. I seriously about broke my neck looking out for the stupid things. Missed a small dip in the sidewalk making sure no rattlers or copperheads were anywhere in my vicinity - and down I went.....I literally sprained my ankle....limped the rest of the way. Was able to regain my balance just as I almost collapsed onto the sidewalk. I was a little mortified! lol!
Anyway, the trip up the mountain and back would have been a little more enjoyable had I not been constantly monitoring my surroundings for those wretched cold-blooded beasts! Thankfully there was a wooden deck to enjoy the view of the waterfall from - instead of the beaten path that held the possibility of the little devils! By the first 0.1 mile up the incline, our calves were burning so bad we had to stop and rest a bit. It was a serious incline. We actually thought the trip down was going to be better on us, but ended up about half running us down the mountain because - believe it or not, it was just as much of a decline coming down as the incline was going up! Wonder how that happened. We were sweated down like pigs (although pigs don't sweat - I assure you we smelled like them!)
So, here are the pictures of Anna Ruby Falls. I will include pictures of our other excursions on another post.
This is actually the smaller of two falls. The larger being at the top of this post. 
This is the view headed out. 
This is a bench to rest along the way. Made of stones.....pretty cool!
This is a tree growing out of a huge rock. Literally, not one inch of dirt around the place. I was kinda mystified by this....as you can see.....Sunday, June 27, 2010
On An Expedition
I guess you can tell that I disappeared off the face of the earth for the last week! It's been crazy busy. Campmeeting was last week and consumed almost every waking moment of our lives! By Friday night, I was sleep walking while standing. I was literally pretty much delirious!
On a whim, Friday night, we decided to take a quick and relaxing trip to the Blue Ridge mountains. Namely, the little town of Helen, GA, which I've never been to. I have found it to be one of the more intriguing places I've been to. I really don't have any pictures to post at the moment because we didn't bring the computer, but I will post them soon. We've fallen in love with this quaint little area and have found some treasures here ad there....like mayhaw jelly for one. Some Farmer's cheese made in Sweden for the other. We discovered these things in a cool store which I will also post pictures of soon.
Right now, we're sitting in a little old house - converted to a restaurant. Built in the early 1900's. The floors creak and shake anytime anyone moves, but we have discovered the biggest and best fried and grilled shrimp that we've ever eaten. Along with mashed potatoes with red skins and doused in creamy butter - ah- heavenly!! Definitely a place to come back to. It's called the Nacoochee Grill!
I'll pos more stuff soon... But for now, I have other places to go.... Like the Hansel and Gretel Chocolate Factory!! Yummy!!
On a whim, Friday night, we decided to take a quick and relaxing trip to the Blue Ridge mountains. Namely, the little town of Helen, GA, which I've never been to. I have found it to be one of the more intriguing places I've been to. I really don't have any pictures to post at the moment because we didn't bring the computer, but I will post them soon. We've fallen in love with this quaint little area and have found some treasures here ad there....like mayhaw jelly for one. Some Farmer's cheese made in Sweden for the other. We discovered these things in a cool store which I will also post pictures of soon.
Right now, we're sitting in a little old house - converted to a restaurant. Built in the early 1900's. The floors creak and shake anytime anyone moves, but we have discovered the biggest and best fried and grilled shrimp that we've ever eaten. Along with mashed potatoes with red skins and doused in creamy butter - ah- heavenly!! Definitely a place to come back to. It's called the Nacoochee Grill!
I'll pos more stuff soon... But for now, I have other places to go.... Like the Hansel and Gretel Chocolate Factory!! Yummy!!
Friday, June 18, 2010
Summer has Officially Arrived
It's so hot in South Georgia that walking outside takes your breath away. The humidity just wraps you up like a blanket, and makes it look like you just stepped out of the shower, it drenches you so quickly.
So, that's the worst things about the summer that I have to complain about so far. I haven't seen any snakes - YET! Well, other than the one that was on the road after becoming roadkill - but none threatening to move me off my property, or anything like that. My little lot of land is not big enough for me and a snake to dwell in unity upon! I hate a snake worse than anything.
Along with the arrival of extremely unbearable hot weather, there are a few things I happen to love about the summer. Namely my garden fresh tomatoes. And fresh corn off the stalk, squash, Vidalia onions........and the list goes on and on......
The other day I took the advice of a friend and visited a roadside fresh produce stand a few miles from my house. It was probably one of the highlights of my summer thus far.
I drove up close to the stand and got out to be heartily greeted by a big burly fella about 3 times my size. He had a smile that lit his sun burnt face up. His smile revealed a mouth full of crooked teeth that were very eye catching. I kinda chuckled inwardly - he was just happy to be there! He had on a bright yellow shirt and big denim overalls and had his hands tucked under the bibs like old farmers do.
As I observed each piece of produce carefully, he would inject every few minutes to make sure I looked at it good because he wanted me to "take only the very best home" with me. So, that's exactly what I did. I ended up getting a bag of squash at $1 / lb, a basket of huge fresh tomatoes, and 6 ears of fresh sweet corn (still in the husks) - all for $5.00......
Even if I could get that good of prices in the local grocery store or Wal-Mart, the interaction with the sweaty owner made it worth whatever extra I had to pay.....Luckily I got if for cheaper and got to support a local "little man" (although he was a big man) of America and enjoy his friendliness. I long for life to once again be made up of these types of encounters. Unfortunately, we get so caught up in our little "worlds" that we forget just how wonderful that interaction can actually be. We just want to go do what needs to be done and get on with life. Forgetting that life is made up of these little special moments.
I walked away feeling like I owned the world. I had the sweet feeling that country summers past had come back to life. It was one of those great moments in time for me. I could see, in my mind's eye, all the farmers I've known in my life as they passed on some of their treasures from their gardens and the sense of pride they felt to know that was the result of their hard work and that we were going to enjoy every moment of eating it.
I remembered all over again why I'm willing to tolerate the heat of the summer months here - to get the rewards of the wonderful "fruit" that is the result of that blazing, blistering sun. So, as soon as all that I got that day from the friendly giant in the overalls is gone, I'll be headed right back for more. And more than I'm concerned about the produce he sells, I'm kinda looking forward to seeing him smile again and carry on in his boistrous kind of way!
So, that's the worst things about the summer that I have to complain about so far. I haven't seen any snakes - YET! Well, other than the one that was on the road after becoming roadkill - but none threatening to move me off my property, or anything like that. My little lot of land is not big enough for me and a snake to dwell in unity upon! I hate a snake worse than anything.
Along with the arrival of extremely unbearable hot weather, there are a few things I happen to love about the summer. Namely my garden fresh tomatoes. And fresh corn off the stalk, squash, Vidalia onions........and the list goes on and on......
The other day I took the advice of a friend and visited a roadside fresh produce stand a few miles from my house. It was probably one of the highlights of my summer thus far.
I drove up close to the stand and got out to be heartily greeted by a big burly fella about 3 times my size. He had a smile that lit his sun burnt face up. His smile revealed a mouth full of crooked teeth that were very eye catching. I kinda chuckled inwardly - he was just happy to be there! He had on a bright yellow shirt and big denim overalls and had his hands tucked under the bibs like old farmers do.
As I observed each piece of produce carefully, he would inject every few minutes to make sure I looked at it good because he wanted me to "take only the very best home" with me. So, that's exactly what I did. I ended up getting a bag of squash at $1 / lb, a basket of huge fresh tomatoes, and 6 ears of fresh sweet corn (still in the husks) - all for $5.00......
Even if I could get that good of prices in the local grocery store or Wal-Mart, the interaction with the sweaty owner made it worth whatever extra I had to pay.....Luckily I got if for cheaper and got to support a local "little man" (although he was a big man) of America and enjoy his friendliness. I long for life to once again be made up of these types of encounters. Unfortunately, we get so caught up in our little "worlds" that we forget just how wonderful that interaction can actually be. We just want to go do what needs to be done and get on with life. Forgetting that life is made up of these little special moments.
I walked away feeling like I owned the world. I had the sweet feeling that country summers past had come back to life. It was one of those great moments in time for me. I could see, in my mind's eye, all the farmers I've known in my life as they passed on some of their treasures from their gardens and the sense of pride they felt to know that was the result of their hard work and that we were going to enjoy every moment of eating it.
I remembered all over again why I'm willing to tolerate the heat of the summer months here - to get the rewards of the wonderful "fruit" that is the result of that blazing, blistering sun. So, as soon as all that I got that day from the friendly giant in the overalls is gone, I'll be headed right back for more. And more than I'm concerned about the produce he sells, I'm kinda looking forward to seeing him smile again and carry on in his boistrous kind of way!
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
Two of A Kind
My little girl Addison is named after great friends of both of our families. They were a husband / wife team who evangelized for years and years and eventually semi-retired in our little country hole in the world. Their last name was Addis.....hence Addison's name. I considered them to be very influential people around the United States, but they were very influential in my life as well. She was a very UNIQUE personality, and frankly, we considered her to be one of a kind. For years before we married, she thought Jeremy should be the man I married. She was VERY fond of him.....as was my mom!
Anyway, they were my honorary grandparents at our wedding and truly were a big part of our life. Sis. Addis died before Addison was born therefore it gave me even more motivation to let her memory live on. Sometimes, when Addison gets a little stubborn, I'll call her Phyllis - Sis. Addis' first name because she was a very set in her ways individual.
I went on that little verbal ramage to lead to this next part of my post. Several years ago, maybe 5 years ago, I encountered another lady who was so like Sis. Addis, I cried and laughed the first time I saw her. I was able to witness an interview with this couple called the Urshans and she was so like Sis. Addis, I was absolutely shocked out of my brain.
It's complicated as to how I discovered them, so I won't even attempt to explain....I'll only leave it at the fact that Priscilla McGruder was involved. The rest is too many details.
So, now it stands that instead of being one of a kind as Sis. Addis was, now there are two of a kind with Sis. Urshan. As they say, the proof is in the pudding.....and I have the proof. You can check out my proof and see what you think.
And by the way, Addison absolutely loves this. I've shown it to her on many occasions to let her have a peek into what she missed by not knowing Sis. Addis until she's able to understand. Therefore, I think she would have been intrigued by her namesake.
And if you're wondering about why this came up today, talking about campmeeting earlier got me feeling all nostalgic again and I just had to talk about it.
Here's my proof.......
Anyway, they were my honorary grandparents at our wedding and truly were a big part of our life. Sis. Addis died before Addison was born therefore it gave me even more motivation to let her memory live on. Sometimes, when Addison gets a little stubborn, I'll call her Phyllis - Sis. Addis' first name because she was a very set in her ways individual.
I went on that little verbal ramage to lead to this next part of my post. Several years ago, maybe 5 years ago, I encountered another lady who was so like Sis. Addis, I cried and laughed the first time I saw her. I was able to witness an interview with this couple called the Urshans and she was so like Sis. Addis, I was absolutely shocked out of my brain.
It's complicated as to how I discovered them, so I won't even attempt to explain....I'll only leave it at the fact that Priscilla McGruder was involved. The rest is too many details.
So, now it stands that instead of being one of a kind as Sis. Addis was, now there are two of a kind with Sis. Urshan. As they say, the proof is in the pudding.....and I have the proof. You can check out my proof and see what you think.
And by the way, Addison absolutely loves this. I've shown it to her on many occasions to let her have a peek into what she missed by not knowing Sis. Addis until she's able to understand. Therefore, I think she would have been intrigued by her namesake.
And if you're wondering about why this came up today, talking about campmeeting earlier got me feeling all nostalgic again and I just had to talk about it.
Here's my proof.......
Campmeeting Days
For the past few weeks / couple of months, we have spent days and hours preparing - leading up to the yearly celebration at our church. For the new converts who get to experience it for the first time with us and don't know what campmeeting is, Bro. Ryan always describes it as our "Jubilee." And to return you to the nostalgia of what some used to know, we still call our celebration "Campmeeting." And if this year is anything like last year, it was definitely a campmeeting. It was quite wonderful. When I refer to this event at work or to modern Christians, they don't understand that word, so I have to use the term "church conference." Especially to the devout Catholics with whom I work. So, if they're understanding is a little limited, it's ok, I don't mind explaining. I also looked up the term "campmeeting" in the dictionary.......they seem to know what it is either. It's one of those things....you have to experience it with your heart to know what it truly means.
But for me, there's nothing better to me than this time of year when campmeeting rolls around and you see friends from far and wide......catch up on friendships you haven't maintained over the previous year, etc..... But mostly, something about getting all kinds of people under the same roof who are expecting the Power of God to fall the same way you are just kinda makes it a little more than a conference. It's just flat-out, good ole Campmeeting. And that's just the best way to describe it.
Fortunately, I have in the recollection of my head and heart the fondest memories of the campmeeting experiences I've had throughout my life, and I assure you there are plenty. I wouldn't trade those days for love nor money! So, just to take you back to the nostalgia, if you care, I have borrowed the fond memories from someone else to help take us back.......
But for me, there's nothing better to me than this time of year when campmeeting rolls around and you see friends from far and wide......catch up on friendships you haven't maintained over the previous year, etc..... But mostly, something about getting all kinds of people under the same roof who are expecting the Power of God to fall the same way you are just kinda makes it a little more than a conference. It's just flat-out, good ole Campmeeting. And that's just the best way to describe it.
Fortunately, I have in the recollection of my head and heart the fondest memories of the campmeeting experiences I've had throughout my life, and I assure you there are plenty. I wouldn't trade those days for love nor money! So, just to take you back to the nostalgia, if you care, I have borrowed the fond memories from someone else to help take us back.......
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