SNOWMEN & OTHER DECORATIONS

Here are a few more Santa's hanging around----and a few snowmen. The snowman in the middle was made by Katie when she was 5 I think, as my Christmas present. The other 2 I made in 2007 and 2006. Dean gets out his wood scraps, sands and rounds the tops then we have a painting session at Sherri's to make the faces. Then she makes the hats and scarves out of fleece. If you cut the fleece a certain way, it will curl---to make the fringe. We are going to make pumpkins in a similar style this coming fall we've decided. Anyway, it's a fun family project. This year I made felt Santa's for close friends and family. They were time intensive but REALLY FUN to make!! If you click on any of these pictures, you can see them bigger. Dean made the cabinet the snowmen are in, and made the shelf and redid the mirror to my specifications!

The Holy family and old-fashioned angel is on top of one of my hutches. I love the simple look of it (since I have so much everywhere else!) Oh---the green felt stocking with the curled toe was my Christmas gift from Katie a couple of years ago. I had taught her the blanket-stitch, and she made me the stocking using that stitch. As you can see we try and make as many gifts as possible at Christmas. We always have. When our kids were small, Dean and I had a Christmas wreath business for the holidays to earn our Christmas money. I still miss the smell of the boughs and wreaths in our garage!! Merry Christmas every one. We are going to Sherri's tomorrow for the next 2 days. I hope every one has a blessed and joyful holiday.

CHRISTMAS ELVES/DROLLERIES

These are my Christmas Elves, also called Drolleries. I got them at Melody's Choices a few years ago and they don't carry them anymore. I think they are too expensive. I got these after Christmas at 50% off and I love how detailed they are. We love having them out, and of course the kids love them also. We have a LOT of Christmas stuff around the house and really enjoy it. What do you think of these little fellows? and of course there's mr & mrs. santa.......

SANTA'S AT OUR HOUSE

I used to paint before I started making cards. Here are a few that I painted over the years. The gourd was hard to paint on, but I really like it. Dean has started carving, and has carved a Santa I need to paint. I haven't done it in awhile----so I hope I can still do it. Anyway, we love the ones we have. HO HO HO

THIS YEAR'S MANGER SCENE

Bekah came over last night and set up the our manger. We never get it out until she comes over (see below posts). So this is it for this year. Isn't it lovely?

WHAT I AM MISSING......

.....is my son John & his lovely wife Rachael who won't be here this Christmas. They were here last year-----unfortunately I missed part of their visit b/c I was in hospital with appendicitis!! We will see them in May when John graduates from college in Missoula, Montana. He's my first born----and I miss him.

PLEASE NOTE

if you click on the manger scene you will see it bigger, and see the tiny little gold crocheted blanket on the baby Jesus. I had to make it because Bekah thought he was too cold when she was two.

THE MANGER

This is our manger. Dean made it many many years ago. A few years ago we remodeled it---it used to have a solid roof. I like this more "humble" look. The figures are Fontinini---I have a nice collection. When we lived in Florida they a had a year-round Christmas House, and I started collecting in 1990. I think I'm done, because we need a lot of space to spread it out. Bekah has arranged the Nativity since she was 2 years old, and that has now become our "tradition." This picture is from last year, because Bekah hasn't been over yet to put up it up this year. I'll try and post a picture when it's up. The first few years she did it, she had every figure's back to the viewer because they were ALL looking at the baby Jesus. Isn't that how it should be?

O CHRISTMAS TREE

OK---so I don't know how to edit the tree to turn it around....

Still, it's pretty, huh? We usually have 2 0r 3 trees. One is all blue, with blue balls, and silver tinsle, but since we have new kittens---we didn't want to tempt them with tinsle!! They are being soooo good, and listen so well, they have not climbed the tree, or even bothered the ornaments. We use a spray water gun---and it works!! I can even leave them alone now with the tree---no problems!

We love ornaments, and after all the years we've been married have accumulated a LOT! I went through a "Hallmark" phase (no more) and have a lot of those, plus we put on 100's of balls because I love them. And of course a lot of home-made ones from me, my children, and my grand-children and other people. So it's very full---but we like it that way It brings joy to my heart every time I see it. O Christmas tree----how lovely are thy (decorated) branches.....

HO HO HO

My friend Trish is blogging and putting pictures up of what's going on at her house around the holidays----I LOVE IT!! my daughter is posting pictures of Christmas's Past---and it's so put me in a holiday mood. Like Eloise------I just LOVE LOVE LOVE the Plaza er um Christmas!!

So I am going to put up some some pictures up of decorations around our house. We REALLY like to decorate-----for Halloween, and Christmas. Also we make a lot of our decorations. Both Dean & I are "handy" and he does wood-working & now carving. I paint on wood, knit, crochet, needlepoint, embroider, and craft!! We love it. So......you will be seeing a little of Christmas at our house over the next couple of weeks. I hope everyone is enjoying all the decorating and baking and "doing" around their homes as we prepare...........to celebrate the most important birthday of the year. This is our fireplace & mantle....

STAMPING

This is one of the Thanksgiving cards I made this year. I don't usually do Christmas cards, b/c I send too many----but I do make them for other holidays. I love these round scalloped cards and may order some more. I think there was a glich in the catalog tho---cause it said I was supposed to get 30, but only got 12 in the order??? Anyway, I may be able to make these cards myself. I have a "ker-chunker" machine, and hopefully it will take the dies from "stampin up."

I loved my friend Suzanne's pictures of the day we spent in Tulsa making cards and other projects. (Really good pics. Suzanne!!!)

Tomorrow I have a haircut appt. and a vet appt. to take the new kittens for booster shots. We are so in love with these little babies! They already come when we call them, and we have successfully (so far) taught them to leave the tree alone. I even left them alone to take a shower today, and so far they walk around it, but leave it alone. These are GREAT cats!!!!

Hope everyone is enjoying the holidays-----remember it' the journey that counts!!

New Craft Room!

(Table before I put all my stuff on it) Notice the huge lazy susan on the left-hand side---it holds a ton of stuff!)

I had a hutch and a big kitchen table with 2 leaves in it as my studio. This sat in my living room, which is large. However it took about 1/3 of the living room to house all my stamping stuff. Plus the huge table was FULL of stuff and not efficient, as it was hard to reach all the stuff on the back side of the table. It AWAYS looked cluttered. Dean built screens for me to block it off from view when company came over. That was ok for awhile. But then I just got tired of always having screens up and/or the clutter!!

So he built me a long craft table for the back bedroom. I thought I wouldn't need the hutch any more------but I really did, and we moved that back there too. We took out all the furniture except for the Q-sized bed, and 2 night stands. We added the new craft table and the hutch. It actually works out quite well. The long narrow table is much more efficient, and he added another shelf on the wall to house more "stuff". I love it!!! He even built in a corner shelf for the new flat-screen tv I'm getting for Christmas to fit in that spot.

I also use an ordinary-size lazy-susan to hold all my pens, pencils, markers, and colored pencils. Oh----the living room looks huge now!!! I love it.

OUR NEW ADDITIONS!

This is Max---the gold male, and Cally, the female calico Manx cats we have adopted. They are not like traditional breeds. After much research we have found out that besides having no tails, they are the friendliest breed and most like dogs, than any other breed. We have had them 2 weeks, and they aready come when they are called, and listen to the word NO. They are about 10 weeks, and love to sit in our laps. Every time we sit down, they come running and jump in our laps. They like to"snuggle" which is a joy to us. They have double fur and are very "round" cats and are broader in the chest. They have tiny little voices and like to talk. They are not fully developed until they are about 5, and live to be 18-20 years. We are just so enjoying them, even though they are exploring and getting into things. Aren't they cute?

DAUGHTER OF FORTUNE by Isabel Allende

Just finished this wonderful book of historical fiction. I wished there had been just a few more words at the end----or an epilogue! This book was translated from Spanish---the author was raised in Chili, but now lives in California. This is what the back of the book says:

"An orphan raised in Valparaiso, Chili by a Victorian spinster & her rigid brother, young vivacious follows her lover to California during the Gold Rush of 1849. She enters a rough-and-tumble world whose newly arrived inhabitants are drivin mad my gold fever. A society of single men and prostitutes among whom Eliza moves---with the help of her good friend and savior, the Chinese doctor Tao Chi'en----California opens the door to a new life of freedom and independence for the young Chilean. Her search for the elusive lover gradually turns into another kind of journey, and by the time she finally hears news of him, Eliza must decide who her true love really is."

I learned a lot about this historical time while reading the book (I obviously never paid attention in school!), and was surprised that so many people from all over the WORLD came to California during this time. The biggest problems CA had during this time was the influx of foreigners, crime, and fires. (Gee---sounds, the same, huh?) Interesting reading and a good story.

HAPPY THANKSGIVING DAY!

We had a WONDERFUL family dinner today with all the karps & karpettes. Brian deep-fryed a turkey---a first for us, and it was good. We had all the usual foods and watched a great movie: AN OLD-FASHIONED THANKSGIVING (by Louisia May Alcott).

I feel truely blessed to have wonderful family here. I did miss my boys & their families, but I appreciate them when they are here.

For my wonderful grandchildren!!

I'm so very thankful for ALL of my family near and far.

For all my friends----the ones who live in Michigan, Wisconsin, Florida, and Louisiana and the ones who live here.

For God and all He continues to teach me-----and for discernment re: His gifts.

For my two new little Manx kitties. (Max & Cally)

For being able to participate in all the hobbies I love to do so much.

For having an appreciative and loving husband.

For all the glorious and fun trips we took this year-----and all the people we were with along the way.

For great books to read----and the ability to still read and enjoy them.

For the ability and joy and pleasure in always learning new things.

I know there's more---that I'm not thinking of right at this moment. God's Grace is a wonderous thing. Thank you God.

THOUGHT ABOUT MY MOM

When I was born my mom was only a little under 17 yrs. older than me. We were destined to become "rivals" not by my choice. I remember when I was a "tween" watching her put on make-up and thinking-----"not me---I'll never do that". She was beautiful, and a C & W singer in my dad's band. She had a beautiful voice and looked like a movie star. Everyone loved her singing, and she even made a record once with the band. She played guitar also, and was always a "hit" at the many parties at our home and others. (My dad played accordian).

She had difficulty nurturing, and I now suspect had problems with depression. But in those days----you never spoke about it. Between the ages of 16 and 30 my mom had 5 live births, one stillborn baby, and 7 D & C's. Then she had a hysterectomy. I was 13 when this happened. Because my personality was more like my Dad's we got along better, and my mom resented this. I never understood all of the physical problems she was going through at the time. My job was to take care of the kids.

I remember resenting her because she wore mini-skirts and "gogo" boots and had her hair done every week into big beehives for performing in the band. I didn't think it was right that she try and look like "younger" people. She was 30!!! And my mom. Plus I had to stay home and baby-sit.

When she and I got older we became friends of a sort. Her social life was always most important to her----while I became a mom and a wife and learned to do all the things she didn't do, like crocheting, knitting, embroidery, needlepoint. I went to all my kids activities at school and tryed so hard NOT to be like her. Then when my kids grew older and left home, my husband and I moved to Florida (for work) and lived closer to my folks. My mom was so very happy to have me there and was hoping for a fabulous freindship and companion. I failed her. I was nothing like her I thought, and didn't want to do all the socializing things she did. Although we did shop, and play cards and I'm very grateful for that and that we did have that time together. When my daughter moved to be near me, I turned all of my attention to her and preferred spending time with her and her babies when they came along. My mom always resented this.

By this time she didn't play in the band anymore, and sad to say had become a very funtioning alchoholic (we never EVER talked about this in the family) and she had several other health problems. We had many many family functions where she attended but didn't stay long because alchohol was not the main attraction. My dad was the classic "enabler".

When my mom got sick they had moved back to Michigan full-time, and somehow she knew her time was short. We had an argument over something I now forget. She had a heart attack in December of 2001 and I flew or drove there 6 times over a period of 4 months and stayed several weeks each time until she died on May 5, 2002. I tried and tried to reconcile fully with my mom over all these weeks----and to have some good talks with her. It didn't happen. She was bitter about dieing, and wasn't always nice to me. She did say she would really miss not seeing the girls (Katie & Bekah) grow up.

Sometimes when I pass a mirror I see my mom staring back at me with a knowing look in her eyes. She knows I understand everything better now.....life......her. I wish I could tell her that.
But maybe she knows.

MUDDLEING THROUGH

life's little crises can be so irritating! When my youngest son James moved away from this area a few months ago, he adverdently messed up our mail. When he filled out the change-of-address form he marked the little box that said "whole family"!!! Thinking of course---HIS whole family, forgetting that his mom & dad still lived at this address. Chaos!!! We've been having trouble ever since.

At first our mail & BILLS went there, and he sent them back. Then some of OUR mail started going to him with HIS address (N. Carolina) on it. Bills were late b/c we didn't GET them, and lots of phone calls had to be made to various people. We are STILL having problems with this. I just want to scream! Last month I had to pay extra money----almost $20 ea. for the "service" of paying our bills on time OVER THE PHONE and I did it early so as NOT to have a late fee.... Yes, they charge for this----but I didn't want a late fee. Only they neglected to follow through on one of them, and so I got the late fee AND was then overdue!!! I had to call the "dispute" center and explain all of what happened and they THEY DID NOT FOLLOW THROUGH ON THEIR END!........... You can see I'm exasperated..... It's supposed to be "fixed" now, and all late charges taken off.

I think I even talked to India once during all these transactions.

My goal this year is to a pay off my credit card (I only have 1 with a balance) and then use it only for convenience with NO balance carried......EVER!

So sayeth Lynn.......

OH THE DAYS DWINDLE DOWN....

...TO A PRECIOUS FEW.....November....(song)

I think in music---ok, MARLEY & ME was a great book, and I think it will be a good movie. I really enjoyed it. It's great if you have pets, and even if you don't. Me---a non-cryer, cried (yes I did) reading this book. Really really good.

THE WEDNESDAY LETTERS by Jason F. Wright is a "fluff: book. If you like Nicholas Sparks, you will probably like this one. This is about a couple who coincidently die at the same time. When the kids come home, they find thousands of letters the Dad wrote to the Mom every Wednesday throughout their life. They all discover secrets that on one knew about their parents, and their family...... A good easy read.

Right now I'm reading another Jodi Picoult----very unlike the only other one I've read by her. I hope I like it as well as I did the other one. What I'm NOT doing is reading the book I'm supposed to be reading for Library Book Club: The Secret Life Of Owen Meany by John Irving. I tried several times to get into this book and as rare as it is for me-----I couldn't do it!! So I will have to pass on this one. If anyone out there has read it??? Let me know and tell me about it.

So Halloween is over (see pictures on my facebook!) and Thanksgiving is coming. I love fall. I love the holidays. I feel happy allllll the time.

OH----We had our Saints Day Party at church, and Katie wanted to dress up at the last minute, so she put together a costume to be St. Katherine. Sherri got out an old felt costume she had made previously for Noah, and adapted it for Caleb (the only other kiddo who wanted to dress up). They did discuss the Saints they were being, but she cautioned them they wouldn't win. She didn't even stay at the party to hear who did win, as she had to take Noah to be in his play (everyone should go see this play at JBU). 5 Judges all interviewed each child asking lots of questions about "who" they were (Saint-wise). So they called 4th place which I did think he had a chance at---then 3rd, 2nd, and yes----he won 1st Place and $50.00 and more importantly, a blue ribbon. He was so excited. Luckily I got pictures. Katie was indignant, as she pointed out---he doesn't even know how to SPEND $50.00!!!

FACEBOOK

OK---this is new to me. My granddaughter Bekah set this up for me, and I am learning how to use it. WOW! There's a LOT more people on facebook than I ever thought, and more communication than blogs bring.

I found lots of people I know, and it's interesting to view all the pictures and see what's happening. Plus I now can IM on facebook. Goodness Gracious! I love it. But Dean says between blogging, email, and now facebook (and don't forget the games I love) I will be on the computer all the time! Ha!

Anyway, you are NEVER too old to learn----and I love it!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY SHERRI

39 Years ago (back in the "olden" days) I had just turned 21 and pg. I was in the hospital in Cheyanne, Wyoming, and terribly missing the 14 month old little boy I had at home (John). This (the 23rd) was my 4th day in the hospital because I had toxemia. I had lost 10 lbs. of water, and was still losing and the Dr. said I could not go home that day. The baby wasn't due for another 2 weeks.

I called Dean crying because I couldn't go home. We were in the military & he was home taking care of the baby (John). He said "well why don't you just have the baby while you are there." Right. I again was talking to him at noon and had a sharp pain that surprised me. About 5 min. later I had another one. He told me to get the Dr. but I didn't. I kept having to go to the bathroom, and about the 3rd time I got up the nurse, seeing me go by, asked me what was up. I told her I had a few pains. Her answer was: well we don't check you with your first pains!

After going to the bathroom yet again, she reluctantly did a check and I was dialated to 8. She rushed me into the waiting area by the delivery room, and the Dr. barely made it up to deliver Sherri Lynn. ( Total time from first pain to delivery----1 hour and 23 minutes.) Remember-----I was in the hospital for 4 days, and he was downstairs doing clinic hours. She weighed 7 lbs. 12 oz and had a head of black hair. Her Dad didn't make it til later in the day, as he had to find a babysitter for John. I had already gotten up, and taken a shower, and set my hair! I felt wonderful!!

I had her on a Thursday, and I finally got to go home on Sunday! So then I had a newborn and a 14 mo. old. to take care of. I loved it!

Nine months later her Dad went to Viet Nam, but that's another story.

She is my only daughter, and has been the joy of my life. We've always been friends I think, and I never talked down to her when she was young. I've always included her in everything that has gone on in my life, and I feel truely blessed to be her mother. I don't know what I did to deserve this wonderful person I call my daughter.

She's very bright and was in the "gifted program" at school. Her IQ was measured at over 143. She plays music. She is artistic. She is articulate. She is a wonderful mother, sister, daughter and wife. She is kind beyond belief and has a generosity of spirit that inspires me. She has patience with me and my A-personality and forgives me when I am cranky. She gets along with everyone in our immediate family and our extended family. I love her with all my heart. Thank you God for giving me this wonderful person to be my daughter.

Happy Birthday Sherri.

MERCY

By Judi Picoult was an excellent book. Has anyone else read this author??? She is new to me, as I don't read a lot of fiction, but I just loved this 1st book I read by her. I plan to read more. This asks the question----if your loved one was terminally ill, and in a lot of pain, would you put them out of their misery if they asked you to??? Remember they are in LOTS of pain???

Another question this books asks is who loves more in a marriage?? If you caught your spouse cheating, would you take them back?? If you cheated-----and really really loved the person you were with, but also loved your spouse (who was NOT your soulmate) would you stay in the marriage b/c it's the right thing to do-------or leave everything to go with your soulmate??

Very interesting questions and very good book. I can't wait to read another one by her. If anyone reading this has read her, tell me if you liked her books and what you read.

IT'S LATE AT NIGHT.....

and I just got through reading all my friends blogs. It's always interesting to hear what everyone is doing and I care very much about each and every one of the people whose blogs I read. One of the things I personally like about blogs is that I think we reveal more of our "true/authentic" selves when we write. This is a good thing. It doesn't matter what we are writing about------it just comes through. Also, it gives me a chance to pray individually and specifically for those who need it.

We played cards and dominoes tonight with our Flint Ridge friends, and then came home to peace and quiet. We had Bekah spend the night last night, and we loved having her. When she got up this morning she came into bed with me to snuggle. I LOVED it. I can't believe she still does this at 14!! I didn't go near my parents at that age, and sadly they never hugged let alone snuggled! So I always feel blessed and happy that my grandkids like to be with me, and sit on my lap and spend time with me.

The weather is getting cooler, and I love it. LOVE IT! I feel like dancing and singing when fall weather comes. I am a FALL PERSON----red/orange/yellow.

Off to bed......I have to get up early for church. We are going to mass at a monestery tomorrow, and that will be a fun adventure.

WE ARE BACK!!!

We are back from Branson and our wonderful vacation there!! We went for a week to Stormy Point Village with our friends from Tampa. We celebrated each and every day. Every morning when I got up I found another birthday card on the table from our great friends! We did one show a day and enjoyed all of them.

Here are pictures of Stormy Point Village, our cottage, and one taken on my birthday of me, and my best friend Lyanne Hamm. I don't feel so bad anymore about turning 60 because we celebrated every day, and I was so blessed and lucky to have these great friends and my husband to celebrate with.

The shows we saw were: Sons of the Pioneers Dinner Show, Roy Rogers Show and Museum, Broadway, The Hughes Brothers, Yakov Smirnoff, The Branson Belle Dinner Show & Cruise. We really did like them all-----we always go to see the Hughes Bros. every time we go to Branson. We like to see how many more kids they have. Ha-ha. I highly reccommend it!!

I recieved a lot of cards and good wishes; presents and gift cards (so blessed!). And from my husband I received two things I really wanted. A diamond ring and......dessert servers from Pampered Chef! Seriously.....I've been looking and looking for these small dessert servers not realizing that they were from P.C. Dean found out, and ordered them for me through Sherri's resources!! He's a keeper!!!

I'm still in the mellow glow of being on vacation and eating out every day, and having fun, fun fun!! I really missed Sherri and the kiddos though. It was good to see them when we got home. We all went out to eat at the Italian Grill to have a little celebration on Sunday. Sherri made the most amazing GREAT carrot cake (her friend Ann's recipe). Actually, she and Ann made it for me on my 50th birthday in Florida and I loved it then too.

Besides going to shows, we played a lot of Mexican Train (domino game) and watched some really good movies. Well that's about it. Now back to work, and washing clothes, cleaning, and you know the routine!!!

Card-craft is Thurs night, and I can't wait for that!!! :-)

PICTURES---I CAN DO IT! (Katie/Braces---Jamie w/ Dylan & Noah)

I'M EXCITED----ONLY TWO MORE DAYS UNTIL.....

VACATION!! Yes! Our friends Lyanne & Grady are flying into Tulsa Saturday, and we are leaving for Branson for a whole week of vacation on Sunday. Going to shows, playing games, watching movies, and reading & visiting and eating out! I can't wait. We are celebrating our on-going friendship....and my birthday. Thank you all for the good wishes. I sooooo appreciate it. More than you know!

I've been cleaning house the past few days. My son finally picked up his dog Tyson that I've had for past 3 1/2 mo. I really love the dog and got quite attached to him-----but NO I do not want one. He was really special and really well-behaved and trained. But now he's gone, and I've vacuumed and cleaned ALL the floors in the whole house to get rid of dog hair and dog slobber!! And of course I am having company at least overnight.

Jamie & Trixy and kids are currently in OK City for a short time, and then on to their new Army base----Ft. Bragg, N. Carolina. They are SO excited and SO gung-ho! All they talk about is the military. Jamie was in the A.F. and it was quite funny to hear them compare their "shooting scores" with a guns, and compare how physically fit they are. The best thing so far to come out of this whole thing is they both quit smoking!!!! And both now work out. Healthy at last. I've been praying for years for Jamie to quit smoking. Thank You God.! Trixy is a diesel mechanic (she's really tiny folks---only 115 lbs!). Jamie is talking about getting a job as Gate Guard as he used to be a military cop as well as a civilian cop. I'm excited for both of them because they are now so excited about their new chapter in life, and adventures to come.

Well, I don't know about all of you----but as a former Michigander----I'm so enjoying this cool rainy fall weather. I LOVE it! When we come back from vacation I will be ready to get out all of my fall stuff (I have tons) and decorate. I'm big on fall foliage and ORANGE & RED!

Book Club was great as always on Monday night. So happy friend Sylvia could come. Hope Suzanne can come next time!! It's always great to read new books and discuss with a bunch of really intelligent ladies! Well, I'll be writing when I come back. See Ya........

THE SHACK

THE SHACK is a a great book. If you want to know what it's about read Sherr's Blog. She said it much better than I could have.

I'm reading the pick for our Library Book Club THE HEMINGWAY BOOKCLUB OF KOSOVO, or maybe it's called The Ernest Hemingway Bookclub of Kosovo. Anyway, it's about a woman's experience teaching English as a 2nd language in Prishtina, while her husband (a lawyer) works with with others to set up a fair legal system for this area. They both take a year off with no salary to come to this country and this experience. She writes email and keeps a journal while she is there and that is basically the book. It's an amazing read because it explains so much about the people and the horrible legacy of blood feuds-----and yet in all other respects they are a decent loving people. If you really want to understand why the people in The Balkans----the "old" Yugoslavia are the way they are in regards war and genocide etc., read this book.

Labor Day is over----I will be 60 on the 20th (GASP!) I've said it often enough this year (that I was turning 60) it should no longer be a shock or a stab in the gut. But there it is. One of my grandmom's and Dean's mother only lived to be 61 and 62. We are blessed to be living in this day and age. I am blessed to be here and turning 60.

After reading the Shack I look at my relationship to others differently. I really REALLY do feel blessed to have the friends and family that I do, which includes everyone who is reading this I know. I'm so glad you have YOU in my life. I am blessed. Thank You God.

WE ARE BACK FROM MICHIGAN

Today is my son's (JOHN) 40th Birthday------gasp---I can't be old enough to have a son that old(!) and my granddaughter's 12th birthday (KATIE KARP). A happy day......

We got back home yesterday from Michigan. We could drive it in 2 looooong days but we break it up into 3 days, usually one 8-hr. day and 2 six hour days. Now that Dean is retired we are able----for the first time---to take our time. Yesterday we stopped in Lebenon MS at an outlet store for Denby China, and had a ball looking at stuff and even buying some things. If you like "spode" that's the place to get bargains! Bought some lace curtains and some cutlery at great bargain prices!! FUN!

We had a great time. The weather though, was COLD. It hailed twice while we were there, and we had to wear a jacket about 1/2 of the time. We forgot how cool Michigan is in August. I was able to see almost all of my first cousins on my mom's side of the family. They have all aged----luckily I haven't. It was just so fantastic to see everyone, and especially some of my female 1st cousins that I'm very close with. Some of us went out for a 3 hour lunch the day after the reunion and remeniced and talked and laughed and even cryed some.

The smells and sights of Northern Michigan are like balm to the heart. It's home. It's where home used to be. Lake Huron was beautiful. Both Dean and I grew up on this beautiful gigantic lake. Lots and lots of spruce and evergreen trees. Across the lake (you can't see it) is Canada. I really miss it. But this is home now....

As I'm writing this, Bekah called to tell me all about Katie's b'day party, and I need to get all the stuff together I'm taking over there for Katie's (real) birthday today. Also I got some pickled balogna for Sherri. We all love it, and you can't buy it around here----it's a northern thing folks---don't turn your noses up at it. Ha-ha.

Oh----the other thing that was great about "up north" is that practically everyone plays "spitzer" ---- a card game that we dearly love. We played several times, and I've decided I HAVE to teach the kids so that we have partners here we can play with. By kids, I mean Noah (age 9---an excellent card player) and Katie, who enjoys wholeheartedly playing games.

Also we've decided to go next year and spend 2 weeks to a month up there, and take Sherri and Brian and kids with us for at least part of the time. It's time to keep in touch with life-long relatives and friends before they are gone.

Meanwhile, back at the ranch, time to put it into "hooey-hooey" (as my mother would say) and get stuff done. First things first----I have to make a card for card-swap this week FUN!!

MEME

I know you're dying to know......NOT!!

What was I doing 10 YEARS AGO?
Living in Florida and enjoying my pool and my little girly-girls---Bekah 3, and Katie 1. We all had season passes to Disney! I did not know how close I (we all were) was getting to a big move in my life!!

FAVORITE SNACKS?
Sweet things & dark chocolate. I love cookies, and almond M&M's.

TO DO LIST:
Clean out all closets
Paint Master bedroom, hallway, kitchen & livingroom.
Organize all stamping stuff into the back spare bedroom.
Find some new kitchen chairs that I REALLY like that are comfortable
EXERCISE

What I'd rather do:
Read-----knit-----stamp & make cards-----spend time with family and friends-----go to the movies----do craft projects------shop

Jobs I've Had:
dishwasher
sales clerk
Jewelry Sales Clerk
Adoption Secretary
Legal Secretary
Insurance Secretary

Places I've Lived:
Michigan
Alabama
Indiana
Whitia Falls, Texas
Bossier City, Louisiana
Cheyenne, Wyoming
Spring Hill, Florida
Siloam Springs, Arkansas
Little Kansas, Oklahoma

Bad Habits:
Not exercising enough
Not working hard enough around the house
Bossiness
Staying up too late-----then sleeping in too late
I know there's more.......just can't think of them right now.
Dean says I don't come into the room to talk to him---and then he can't hear me!

Random things people may not know about me:
Like my daughter (& grandfather, father & grandson) I play the accordian-----but I DON'T do it in public and rarely do it ever.
I can yodel (I do enjoy this)
I love to sing-------and really enjoy music a LOT!
I'm basically shy------at least I think I am.

CD's I'd take on a stranded Island:
I love Calypso & Hawaiian Music & it'd be SO appropriate!
Johnny Mathis
Oldies (50's/60's) Music
Classical
Barbara Striesand
Bing CROSBY
Glenn Miller
Chris LaDieux
and more......

What would I do if I become a billionaire?
Pay off ALL my bills
and all my kids bills
Buy them all houses
College Educations for all grandkids
Money for our best friends Grady & Lyanne
Charitys & Church
Certain Lucky friends would be blessed also!
VACATIONS TIME----Disney World here we come!

I'M LEAVING........ON A JET PLANE

Not really and I'll be back again. (song) sorry.....I do that all the time. Everything reminds me of music. We are driving....to Michigan next week for a vacation and to see relatives and attend a family reunion---Yacks/Ellsworth Reunion---my mom's side. There will be many of my 1st cousins who are near me in age and whom I grew up with there. My mom had 5 sisters and 1 brother so there are a lot of 1st cousins. It's amazing somewhat in today's age. My kids only had 5 1st cousins on one side and 8 on the other. Very small.

So we are getting ready, and doing chores......the usual. I actually "thought" about coloring my hair to look younger. But then I thought---oh, what to heck! I AM going to be 60 next month after all. sigh. So I didn't. Anyways dying my hair wouldn't hide all those extra pounds I'm packing....

I'll really miss Sherri and the kids though. That's the one thing I hate about being gone so long. It's nice now that Dean is retired that we don't HAVE to be in a hurry to get back, but then I miss those Karpo's so much.

Anyway, I won't be blogging til we get back----so hope everyone is enjoying summer. I was......until it got sooooooo HOT! Here's hoping we have a cool fall!!!

I JUST READ

several of my friends' blogs, and they all sounded so very interesting. I hardly know what to say. My computer has been ill, and I haven't been able to get on---but now it's better and I think I have caught up with all my interesting blogging friends.

Not too much new here. I cut the boys hair a few days ago (& Dean's). I love cutting hair, and I think I'm getting better at scissor-cutting. Anyway Dean's always looks pretty good.

We've been on antenna for several years now, and we were going to get the converter boxes for HD TV. But..... I read an article that says they don't all work, and some don't work well. So we decided to get DISH Network instead of fooling w/the boxes. We got the family package and I really like all the channels we get, plus it's the most inexpensive one they had! I especially like Hallmark and Hallmark Movie Channel and the DIY and ID channels. And of course the kids love Boomerang and Animal Planet etc. So I think we made good choice.

I've been reading a lot this summer, and really enjoying it. So many good books and so little time!

I'm taking the boys tomorrow and Friday as Sherri is busy as usual. All of her children are pleasant to have and are at such a good (& easy) age to have around! In two years we will have the trauma (like my friend Trish) of having to go through Bekah learning to drive and taking Driver's Ed. I'm thinking we should start teaching her now. Back in the "olden days" when I learned to drive, everyone could already drive by the time they had driver's ed. Believe it or not, I could drive at 9. And we had stick-shifts! Bekah does drive the tractor, but I think she and Katie actually could learn some basics in a big parking lot. Hmmmmmm. :-)

My theory (not having kids to take care of most of the time) is that during the HOT summer, we should sleep in the day and do work at night. Does anyone agree with this, or am I crazy?

Well, good night for now.........

PATRIMONY

is the name of the book we discussed at our "book-talk" group at the library tonight. It's written by Philip Roth---author of PORTNEY'S COMPLAINT & GOODBY COLUMBUS and others. It's a moving, somewhat depressing (but good) memoir about his relationship with his father, particulary the last year of his life. Patrimony is the legacy or birthright from father to son in the Jewish Community. This book is "real", sad, and touching. Most of us like it and thought it well-written and honest. This book was very different for this author, and he did a great job.

Sherri and I brought the snacks tonight, and after we cleaned up (they only ate her dessert b/c it was soooooo good & mine was just brownies!) we went to the sidewalk cafe for a sandwich and soda. We had such a good time gabbing we sat outside until after 10 p.m.! So fun to do stuff without kids once in awhile. Let's do it again Sherri!!

However both of the girls are in Little Rock with their "other" grandma, and we miss them terribly. I won't see them until next week! sigh...

I'm reading a David Baldacci book right now and enjoying the fluff! Hope everyone is reading great books this summer!

HAPPY DAYS ARE HERE AGAIN!

What a difference a year makes. Last year in Aug. Dean was diagnosed with CLL (chronic lymphocytic leukemia) which sounds so much worse than it is. It's chronic, but progresses slowly. It can change (to acute), but usually it doesn't. Usually you don't die from the leukemia, but from some other illness you can't fight because of the leukemia. We are not the type of people who say "why me?" but rather----"ok, how do we deal with this now?" By the Grace of God, of course.

But at first we were devastated. Dean was depressed for about 3 months. Then slowly we got used to it, and the only real difference it has made in our life is we go to the doctor a little more for him to get blood counts, and we try very hard to keep all sick people away from Dean. So when the kids are sick I go over to their house to help Sherri and I found out when I get sick I too----need to stay away from Dean. Because when he does get sick----he gets it worse and for a longer period of time. He caught a cold from me in May & was sick for 4-6 weeks and even had to go on antibiotics. So hand sanitizer goes with us everywhere. He uses it often. Other than that----things are great!

And now the good news. We accidently found out ( a long story----call me if you want to know the details) that his CLL may be related to his Viet Nam tour. After a very short period of time we found out it was, and he has received full disability from the US Government which gives a monthly check and 100% free medical including eyes and dental! This----is----HUGE!!!!! It has totally changed our life for the better. Both of our attitudes are FANTASTIC, and we know we can deal with the challenges and changes that life brings us. Halleluiah!!! Thank You God.

CLARIFICATION

Ok, I published my post and then re-read it. I thought some people who read it might think the book I'm talking about is Pro-Cultist----nothing could be further from the truth. I't's just that this author really "gets" people----and he really understands different religions, and why people become fanatical and how they can be mislead.

Also I thought it sounded like I was anti-Catholic. No WAY! I am liberal, and Catholic, and I can understand why people might think that we Catholics are "cultish". Everyone thinks their religion is the best and that they are right and the only way to go. Everyone! Which is exactly the point of: "You don't have to be wrong for me to be right."

YOU DON'T HAVE TO BE WRONG

FOR ME TO BE RIGHT (Finding Faith Without Fanatacism) by Brad Hirschfield is the name of the book I'm reading right now.

Yes, I'm STILL reading the THE POWER OF NOW----but it's so repetitive. He (Tolle) is taking a whole book to say: Yesterday is gone--kaput--you can't CHANGE it. Stop thinking about it. Tomorrow will never actually come---because there's ALWAYS a tomorrow---it never REALLY arrives. You only have this very moment you are actually living in. So stop thinking----and just be--------and be grateful and fully aware of all the blessings you have right now---this very minute. If you could stop thinking and be AWARE every minute of every day you would be "living in the moment". Most of us can't do that----but this author tries to tell you this will solve all the world's problems and says it a million different ways. I think living in the moment is VERY important also.

However I'm really really loving the Hirschfield book. It's written by a Rabbi who was at one time something of a fanatic himself, and he's incredibly wise and articulate about the problems in todays world. We live in a time where "religion" is killing more people than at any time since the crusades. He clearly understands and explains why this is so. He talks about many different aspects of religion and here is an excerpt about cults:

"The distinction between cults and religions is far less clearcut than most people think. The way we define a cult can't be based on its age. All religions have a starting point; each tradition was once an innovation. When early Jews proclaimed there was ONE God, and early Christians said Jesus was His only begotten son, their contemporaries thought they were lunatic cultists."

Well gee, let's see. Say there's this "cult" as some might call it, where some of the women and some of the men live separately and wear a type of uniform, and give all their money and all their goods away to serve their God. And when they go to church, the "minister" makes these gestures like the sign of a cross, and sometimes he lights incense, and waves it around, and sometime he sprinkles something on the people. "Outsiders" might consider this a "cult" of some sort. I consider it being a Catholic. The thing is-----is to know more, and understand more, and be educated more about all religions. Cause you don't have to wrong for me to be right.

Love it.......

I haven't been this excited about a book in a long time. He's an excellent narrator I highly recommend it to people of all faiths. -(I think you would like this book Joy).

I LOVE SUMMER BECAUSE

fall is next!! When I lived in Michigan summer was always such a treat. We went swimming in Lake Huron (VERY COLD---water temp. in the 60's) when the temp. outside was up to 70. We loved this very short season that started usually in June. By July the temps would be in the 70's and sometimes 80's---but at night it would still be 50's & 60's.

Aug. was the hottest month and we would sometime see high 80's and very rarely 90's. Whenever it was that hot, we would all head for our basements or go to the beach. It was so hot to us (no central air) we had to rest! We always spent a week or two at an inland lake (you can't go more than 3 miles in MI without hitting a body of water) and loved the canoeing, fishing, and swimming. I grew up on Thunder Bay River, and Dean grew up on Lake Huron As adults, we lived across the road from Lake Huron. All the kids took swimming lessons, and several times a week I would load up the wagon with towels and toys, and we would walk to the beach. Sometimes I would be wrapped up in a towel for warmth while the kids swam. That was summer then at that place.

Now, in the South, the temps are so much higher, and I don't deal well with temps over 90. So I stay in the AC and close the curtains and look forward to the fall. Even the fall here can sometimes be higher than our summers in MI were.

So for me, I look forward to reading and movies and the occasional swim with the kids, while waiting...... for glorious FALL!!

LYNN THINKING.......

Hello. Sherri tells me I need to blog. So here goes. I have a big birthday coming up in Sept. and I thought I'd share with all who read this what it's like to get older. Your outside changes (boy does it!) but your inside doesn't. You may be amazed really at how little it changes. Of course you have all that wisdom----but really you remain about 30. You are even startled & puzzled sometimes when you look in the mirror. You think Connor (HGTV) & John Travolta etc... is/are HOT!! I'm not raising children anymore like most of YOU are----but I'm still interested in what every ones concerns are. I think of my grandchildren as my own children. My daughter lets me do this :). I like to do a lot of the same things all of you do. I love reading and the movies. I care about being "green" and doing the right thing. I hate feeling "invisible" as you will all find out some day. Just thinking and thinking........

New subject: We just back from Mississippi. Dean is feeling very tired, and has been resting for over a week now. He has had a cold for about a month, and is now on anti-biotics. This is the result of his CLL. He is getting better, and is finally playing golf again. We had a fun time in the Gulf and saw NARNIA-PRINCE CASPIAN & the new INDIANA JONES movie. We really enjoyed both. Also got to go to a couple of casinos, and did some shopping with my SIL Debbie.

The kids have basketball camp this week and theater camp----so maybe Sherri and I will head out to Hobby Lobby!!! YES! Ok enough for now----no more thinking.

MAH JONG!

Today I got to play Mah Jong with Sherri, and friends, Joy & Ceil. I LOVE this game. Sometimes it's a little hectic with all the little kiddo's running around---but it's worth it to play the game. You have to THINK in this game, and I love the feel and sound of the tiles clicking, and the companionship. It's just great!! You use about 150 tiles, and it's fun learning all the suits, and all the different hands you can make with the tiles. Yep, I love it.



Just getting over a cold & Dean's coming down with one. With is weaker immune system, we will see how it goes. We are supposed to go to game night up here on the Ridge w/our friends. Poker for him and Mexican Train for me. I love that game too (but not as much Mah Jong).



Next week, if Dean's well enough we will be taking the 2 computer desks, 3 bookcases, and small untility table---all with slide out panels, drawers, and adjustable shelves to Gulfport to my brother's house. Dean and son James made these units. They did a great job!



Does anybody else think this weather is unusually cool for this time of year?? Personally I love it. But isn't it weird?

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY!

to all you mother's out there!! Esp. Sherri, Lyanne, Joy, Ann & Trish.... I hope you had a great one.

I did. I didn't do anything (work) at all today. Dean cleaned the kitchen, and cooked supper. Sherri got me stamping stuff and a book THE LAST LECTURE-----loved it!!! John sent me candles and cards, and Jamie took me to a movie "MADE OF HONOR", & bought steaks and cooked them for us (really fantastic!!!) and all 3 kids called me again today on Mother's Day. Really perfect.

Being a mom is all I ever wanted to be. I never really wanted a career. I did love being a secretary, but my kids always came first and have ALWAYS came first above everything and everybody. I thank God for my children. And my grandchildren, and all you wonderful mom's out there doing such a great job!!

THE REST OF THE STORY.......

I have noticed on by daughter's blog (comments) that some of her friends have "suggested" that she tell her brother to move out. I thought I'd point out that it was a "family-decision" that he live there while his wife goes through basic & tech school. This does put a huge burden on Sherri, and I for one feel guilty about it. I have suggested they move here after schools out even though I only have one extra bedroom. Sherri said NO, and has a whole wing as you know, with separate bathroom, bedroom and big schoolroom where they are all now staying. So I try and take as many kids (hers and his) whenever I can. Yesterday I had six. I expect they will ALL be here a lot this summer as we have 3 pools up here on the Ridge, and they all love it!

The reason this decision was made after we ALL discussed it----was because: 1) Dean just started a new furniture-making business BLACK BEAR CABIN FURNITURE & needed help. We can't pay James, other than gas, as we are living on one S.S. check. So James could be working and making money otherwise. 2) Dean has NEVER spent any extended amount of time with James (our youngest) since he left home at age 18 and we have only occasionally lived near him for short amounts of time. 3) Since Dean has been diagnosed with the CLL type of leukemia, we know that his lifespan can be cut short at any time. 4) Both James & Dean felt the need to take advantage of this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to spend these months together working on projects with Dean's new business, and getting to know each other as adults.

We knew it would be hardest on Sherri with the extra kids. And of course extra people staying in her house. Thank God for that extra wing. I wish we could help financially, but we can't. James is now getting a paycheck from the military and contributes food and money to the family. We all try to help Sherri as much as we can. And as she pointed out, there have been some unexpected blessings for each person in different ways. The kids are darling and we all love each and every one. James has been a blessing to each of us in different ways (he & Sherri are best-buds) & does little things around the house, and does a lot of "running around" for her. For Dean it has been just the best blessing in the world. I think he and James will treasure this time together for the rest of their lives.

After this, James will be in "military life" living at bases---who knows where? He may never have this time with his sister, mom, and dad ever again. We feel very blessed by having him here, and will be sad when he leaves. (I dread this for Dean).

So now you know the rest of the story.

I JUST FINISHED READING

the book (true story) about the Geisha & it was fascinating. Did you know it can cost as much as $100,000 for a kimono? Did you know that studying to be a "geiko" (what they call themselves) can start as early as 5 years old, and is considered a serious art form (like ballet) in their culture? Very very interesting. I borrowed the book from Sherri who borrowed it from Leah if anyone wants to read it.

Right now I am reading "THE POWER OF NOW" by Eckhart Tolle. Sherri thinks he is a "nut" and he may be. Some things I'm reading about his past lead me to believe that could be true. However, since this is the book of the moment----I'm interested in finding out what the fuss is about. Acturally his next book is the one being talked about on Oprah (this one came first---I may read both) . Some of the stuff in this book are things I already know about----like living-in-the-moment. I learned a long time ago that yesterday is gone, and tomorrow is an illusion. We really REALLY only have this moment right here now as we live it. Mr. Tolle has some techniques on how to achieve this "power" (as he calls it) of living in the moment----it's much like meditation, to simplify it. Anyway it is interestesting, and I'm counting on the fact that I'm intelligent enough to separate the gobbledy-gook from the truth as I see it. I've read many many similar books and usually learn something from each one of them---but I must admit I also hear a lot of similar things being said in different ways. I'm always up for spiritual enlightment and yes, I do still keep my faith in GOD. So, if I learn anything "earth-shattering" I'll let you know!

THE PLAY WAS GREAT!!!!!

The play was great, and so were all the kids. There is always so much stress before the actual presentation and it always turns out great. There was LOTS of choreography, and I thought they all did an amazing job. Caleb did get a little bored sitting on stage for that long but he did know all his parts all the hand gestures really well. I thought Noah's acting and dancing was so great----he confided in me that he REALLY likes acting. And the girls were great. They sing and dance really well----but of course have been doing it their whole lives. No, I'm not prejudiced. Really. Chandlor was fantatic as usual. She is one multi-talented little girl! I wish I had EVERYTHING they do on tape. I hope Sherri gets me a CD of this performance. I missed Joy's kids being in it this year though. Why weren't they there??? Anyway. It was great!!!!

PLAY-TIME

Well, my company is gone-----whew! My dad is a difficult man, and the visit went surprisingly well. He was only slightly critical of things, and really behaved himself. Mostly. My step-mom is so sweet, and that helps a lot. We played a lot of cards and I really REALLY enjoyed that. I wish my dear daughter and her husband would learn how to play SPITZER. It's a somewhat complicated card game that I love, and since my dad probably won't be traveling here anymore, we have no one to play this game with. (My dad and Sally will be flying to Florida bi-annually instead of driving b/c my dad is turning 78 in May).

Thanks Sherri for giving Sally & I the afternoon of card-making. It was really fun. And now we are looking so forward to the play this weekend with all 4 kids in it. I can't wait to see it.

I've decided to accept the blessing of any & all who read my blog and honor me with a comment, and not worry about those who don't (comment). Thanks everyone for the great advice. I really don't want to open it to the public, and/or count the hits etc. This is enough.

I'm reading this fantastic book about the life of a Geisha-----a true story; not a novel as I believe "Memoirs of a Geisha" was. It's so interesting, I can hardly put it down. I need to get busy on our book-talk book also, as we have a meeting coming up in May. Can y'all believe how fast this year is going already???

Next, I'm going to read the book Sherri is reading called (I think) "The Red Tent." I'll let you know.

But now I have to go to bed. It's after 1 a.m. already----goodness-gracious!

Hello everyone. I haven't been posting b/c I read everybody else's blogs and they all seem so FAB! Mine sounds dreary (to me). Plus, like my friend Ann, I like to get comments, and not many people seem to do that. Or maybe I'm delusional in thinking that more than 3 people read this thing. Probably so. Today Sherri & I had to run an errand in Fayetteville and we didn't have ANY kids!! They were in play-practice, and it was amazing to have all adult conversations for a few hours. Plus we got to spend "quality-time" w/each other. A fun day. And Sherri got us a treat @ Bath & Body and that's always FUN!

I'm almost done reading the current Amy Tan book, and then I'm going to read a book I got from Leah K. about the life of a Geisha---a true story. Then I'll have to read my book for our book-talk group at the library. Just looking forward to reading good books is such a glorious thing for me.

I'm getting ready to have my dad & step-mom for a few days starting on Sunday. My dad just isn't the easyies person to have around. He's very critical and judgmental. Please everyone, say a prayer for me. thanks.... I've been having trouble sleeping lately. Comes with the O.L.D., I suppose. But it doesn't matter, cause I always enjoy reading or whatever, unless I have to get up with the children (grand-children when they are here). Good Night....

THE DIFFERENCE IS. . .

Did anyone see the repeat on Oprah today about the horder who had 75 TONS of stuff in her 3000 sq. ft. house? (Part II tomorrow). I watch these shows to find out how to get RID of MY clutter.

What I want: A clean uncluttered house that oozes serenty & calm. Books can be there, but no other clutter.

What I have: A very cluttered house with lots of stuff because I love to knit (lots of baskets of yarn and projects and knitting books)----lots of books b/c I love to read----lots of pictures b/c I love to have pics. of my family around and 1/3 of my living room is my STUDIO with lots & lots of stuff on it (the table it's all on can seat 10 people---and it's FULL+ there's stuff under it) Plus I have a glass hutch full of stamps and materials in this area as well. I do have two folding screens to screen off this area when someone comes----but you "KNOW" there's clutter behind the screens.

I have too much of stuff so that there is not a "home" for every single item and thus more clutter. In my mind and heart, even tho I love to DO all this stuff-----I don't like the conseqential clutter. So this is my life. And this is why i always panic when unexpected company comes over. sigh......

THE STOLEN CHILD Book Report

The STOLEN CHILD by Keith Donohue is a first novel, and is about "changellings." Henry Day, a 7 yr. old is stolen, and lives in the woods with children that never grow up. They are faeries, and hobgoblins, and one of them (who makes himself a double) takes his place in the real world. Alternate chapters are told by Henry Day/Anaday (the name the others give the real Henry Day and describe that happens to each of them in their "new worlds." His father suspects that something is wrong, especially since Henry (who couldn't sing a lick) is now becoming an expert piano player. Meanwhile the real Henry--now Anaday is finding what a hard life it is to live in the woods as a child even as his secret powers develope. Sometimes you have to wait 100+ years for a chance to become human again----to find the right little child to steal----to make into another changling. It's a great book, and a haunting story. It's very well written and interesting, and you can't wait to find out what happens in the end.

THE HORROR OF LETTING YOUR D.L. EXPIRE

Last week, after receiving and filling out our postcard to renew our license tags, I discovered that both mine and Dean's drivers licenses were expired on 2/28. So on Thurs. we drove to Jay, OK to renew them. We went to the TAG office. They said since they had EXPIRED we had to go to the Driver Testing Place. We went. They are only open on Fri. & Mon. in Jay.

Friday a.m. we drove again to Jay (25 miles) and arrived at 11:30 a.m. The ONE guy working there said they were full up, and we should come back Monday, and they open at 9 a.m. He didn't have time to fit us in and didn't tell us to come EARLY, way before 9.

Monday (today) we were back in Jay by 9:20 a.m. The hall outside was completely filled up with people. Guess what? YES---they were "full up" again. and he couldn't take us until Friday!!! And then we find out people had gotten there as early as 7 a.m., and some people had been there 5 times already!!! The absurdity of the situation about did us in. We wanted to drive LEGALLY, and also to obtain our tags!!! We then drove to Broken Arrow-----found the Driver's Testing Place there(we didn't have to "test" but we had to have our original birth certificates input into the system). They had several people working at this office and it only took about 1/2 hour. But we still didn't have our driver's licenses, oh no----not yet!

We then had to take pieces of paper with our info, and our old drivers license stapled to it, back to a TAG Agency. Only THEY can actually issue the license (but they can't substantuate your birth certificate!). We knew we didn't want to go BACK to Jay yet again, so we found out a TAG agency was only a couple of blocks from the Testing Place, and FINALLY we succeeded in getting our new driver's license after 3 trips to Jay, and one to Broken Arrow.

Lesson Learned: Oklahoma Bureaucracyis absurdly inefficient---and to never NEVER let our licenses expire ever again.

What in the World???

Is anyone as worried as I am about the what the world is coming to? Do any of you worry? I know worry produces NO results and is not constructive. However, when I listen to the news (I try NOT to do local) it amazes me. All the killing----school shootings, FAMILY shootings, children killing their parents!!! Gulp. Folks it was NOT like this when I grew up. Yes times are changing and not for the better. That's what worries me. How much worse will it get??? I know this is partly why so many home-school these days. Did you know there are several THOUSAND homeschooles in Arkansas? Anyway, sometimes I feel like I should spend every minute of every day in prayer.

Five Quarters of the Orange Book Report

I finished this great book by Joanne Harris. It's told by a 9 yr. old Framboise Dartigen in Nazi occupied France. She comes back as an adult under an alias to resurrect the burned out remains of her family's home & reputation. The suspense of finding out the real truth of what happened to this family can be alternatingly engaging and irritating (clue: the diary/recipe book has parts written in code by the mother). It's about mothers and and daughters, and the relationship between a Nazi man and all the members of this family. Food is mentioned a lot, so it makes you hungry to read it------the author also wrote CHOCOLAT. I loved some of the recipes in this book, and wonder if they are correct?

The mother who is frequently ill with migraines is a gifted cook who wills her diary & recipes to the daughter. She a tortured soul whose love for her children is soured by her fear & anger. As her children run wild to escape her shouts & slaps, she becomes addicted to drugs. There are secrets in the family that destroys some of the members----while others try to forget. After the older Framboise comes back and starts a restaurant, other members of the family find out and want her recipes. When she refuses, they try to sabatoge her life.

I thought it was well-written and I loved the ending.

Black Bear Cabin Furniture

Well---guess we have a new "cottage industry." Dean made a beautiful one-of-a-kind coffee table. It's irrigularly shaped, and has slabs of tree-trunk for the legs. He put "inlace" in the worm holes, and put a fine finish on it---with son Jamie's help. We sold it for $600, to friends who ordered it, and then found a furniture store that will pay that much for it unfinished. The people who bought it LOVE it, and want all their friends to come and see it. We then took a similarly styled bench to this furniture store and they bought it for the wholesale price of $300. They will probably double that. So we are very grateful (God is Good) that Dean can do this to earn extra money. When he's not doing orders, he can make things to sell at this store. He's also making a bookcase for someone, and a double computer desk with book shelves for my brother. All this with NO advertising. We are so excited. I made him some business cards yesterday, and we put together a little portifolio of things he's made for me around the house. This is just such a blessing. Hoo-Ray!!!

Jamie our son has been coming over every day to help his dad on these wood projects. At this particular time in our life (and James too) I think this is divine intervention. It's just such a blessing to have him here. We are so enjoying him----and I really think he is enjoying us. We have spent the least amount of time with him since he's been an adult. We really love him of course and we really like him. Another Blessing.

Tonight we played cards/dominoes with our Golf Group, and had fun. I just HAD to have a piece of the home-made banana creme pie!!! I am NOT doing well on cutting back on the sugar folks. I try every day, I really do----I have such a HARD time resisting tempation...

Enough rambling (as my friend Ann calls my writing)----:) See ya later aligator!