It's nearly time for me to leave but....

....a few lines before I exit the building! Just before I sat down here I went door to door with the The Palace Press newsletter, hot off the printer. Well, only some of them were, since I'd printed the majority yesterday. I stapled and folded them when Twila and I scrapbooked, of course, while it was pouring rain again! Every time she comes to crop, it rains like the dickens!

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I was still short a few copies of the newsletter so had to run some more and those are the ones I'll deliver before heading over to church for a meeting. It is also my opportunity to serve, this week as the church cleaner. It makes sense to do this when I'm already there rather than make another trip over just to vacuum. The meeting is about establishing a Christian elementary school with plans for a representative from the Synod coming down to speak to us this fall. He's a guy I went to grade school and high school with, and have offered to let him stay here if he wishes to.

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Oh, there goes a red boat just like mine, zooming past the breakwater! Man! I am not sad to have sold the boat but do miss being out on the water. One of my neighbors has a pair of jet skis stored just down the river from here but hasn't had them out in ages. He's recovering from a knee damaging accident so is not about to go scrambling around trying to get them running. I never rode on the river with ours, always in the lake. On a night like this one, it's as calm as can be.

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There's a bit of a pall over the building/real estate community this week, with the death of an area builder. I've wondered aloud sometimes if the Lord ever grows weary of hearing from me about real estate and the building industry, and I pray the answer to that question is "NO!!". The market affects people we don't even realize being affected, as one lady told me today, families make the decision between having their kids' teeth straightened or take their pets to the vet. Hopefully, they take the kids over the pets, but you can see where this is going. At some point these same people may have to decide between the braces and perhaps education or medical expenses.......On the bright side, there is some indication that the market is picking up a bit so I think I'll continue speaking to God about the housing market and related industries, okay?

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More later.......

I'm falling down on the job here....

I've heard from a couple people remarking about the lack of a newsy post the past few days. Sorry 'bout that! Is it because there is no news? No news is good news.....Or is because I've been doing other things which kept me from my machine?

I've had some lengthy e-mail communications with peoples around the USA plus finished the writing of the newsletter for The Palace. It's sitting here in front of me, awaiting staples. I'll do that as soon as the ladies get here for scrap booking. I usually have some busy work to do when I am not in the midst of an album. My recent project, after adding the pages to Justin's album, is the trip to Greece and Turkey from last year. That reminds me, I need to print off some more pictures....

I purchased this carpet in Istanbul, simply because I loved it! I thought I'd use it in my bedroom since the colors worked but after I decided to move my studio junque into a spare room, the carpet works perfectly in the river room!!!

Twila just called to ask me about bringing sandwiches or something to nosh on while we "work". Yummy! Jen called to report she couldn't make it because she had too many children today, since her stepson's mom hadn't called yet about picking him up. It's too hard to work on a project like this with kids running around and getting into things, and she realized that. Jen did say it was thundering pretty good out Middleburg way so I hope Twila gets here before the heavens open!

Too late! It's pouring rain. I hope Justin isn't out driving in this, he is really hesitant about driving in the rain since he did his spin out. Yesterday he took his car in for detailing and it looks so very nice, almost like new! The good news was the cleaners found his missing set of keys so now he can get into my house on his own and into his mailbox. He thought they were lost in his messy bedroom and not in the car! He said he upgraded the oil change I bought him, having his fuel injector cleaned, too. They showed him the filthy smoke pouring out of the tail pipe when they put the additive into his car. It was black and then eventually became clear, so I guess that's a good thing.

He came after work, got showered and dressed. We met some church family at Cracker Barrel where he was able to have some grilled chicken fingers in keeping with his weight loss program. I got his green beans to bring home, love those beans! Half of my food came home too. Justin joined us at Bible study which was lovely and when it was over, he left to meet the guys for bowling. Busy, busy, busy! The first thing he says to me when I speak with him is that he's tired......why would that be??

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Pastor asked me to help write and distribute a letter to our VBS families inviting them to Sunday school when it begins in late August. He's going to get me the information and then I can go to work. Next Wednesday Leeane and I are going door knocking to some of the families of the VBS kids, encouraging them to come to worship, etc. This is exciting work to do!

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My poor niece, Lisa, took another tumble on her stairs recently and is doctoring for a bruised and swollen lower back and sit down area. I hope she's feeling better by the time they get here in August. Yesterday I was on the phone and e-mail with folks, making plans for a get-together of people that Lisa wants to spend time with and introduce her hubby. Over the years Lisa would come for visits both before and since she was married as well as for Timmy's funeral, and grew quite fond of our friends. Many of them worked for us at the time but are now simply heart friends. Lisa is so much like me, it's scary---no, it's not!!!!

We are planning on this being a pool party and hopefully the weather agrees.

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Tuesday I am going to Middleburg to have lunch with Brenda W. and then get my toe nails worked on by her daughter-in-law. They look terrible but I've been holding off on repairs until after our water aerobics class is wrapped up. The class is very hard on our polish, even with water shoes on!

Here's a link to see my sister dishing ice cream!!!!

http://www.htrnews.com/apps/pbcs.dll/gallery?Site=U0&Date=20080728&Category=MAN01&ArtNo=807280801&Ref=PH&Params=Itemnr=32


Jami, if you look at the picture numbered #5 in the slide series, you'll see them making our favorite----mint chocolate chip!!!!!!!

Some photos from the weekend

In the foyer of the Club, Olivia posted this sign to welcome her guests. Many of the other debs had their parties in more elegant settings and she felt this best spoke of her choice of halls for the Low Country Boil. Many of the guests have visited this Camp or the surrounding lake, including my new best friend, Ms. Huntley, who spent much time at this O Club when her husband was in the Army. She was saying the Army was secondary to the Navy in this area so this was a good place to spend time, loaded with memories for her!

This is a photo of the celebratory cake, again using the theme of "Redneck". The meal was absolutely delicious, especially for those who eat the fish/seafood that is in the boil. I had wanted an ear of corn but by the time I got into line to eat, the corn was gone. There were red potatoes in the mix so I had one of those, some white rice, plus the meat ball appetizer and little hot dogs in a wrap. One of the best parts was the machine which makes margaritas. Too bad they are so expensive to rent or I'd have one for my parties some time! Linda J. told me she won a margarita machine at a silent auction so she'll have to demonstrate for me when I come up to Manty for a visit!

All the debs have been introduced, minus one who couldn't make it to the party. I believe this first girl in line is attending the Air Force Academy, following in the footsteps of both her parents and an older brother. I wish the pictures had turned out brighter but this is the best I could get this one. I worked on the photos much of the afternoon yesterday, and my "mouse" finger was so stiff from manipulating the pictures. When it came time to type something later on, my pointer finger was uncooperative! Who'd have thought?

Olivia was visiting with her many guests, including her dear friend, Elise. Coming up to say "hi" was Ms. Booth, who was Timmy's teacher, followed by her daughter, Caitlyn, who was in his class. How can she be such a grown up looking young lady, when in my mind she should be only 5? Many of the guests were from the St. Johns family because their daughters graduated together, or they were teachers of these debs. I can really get used to attending these parties every weekend, but wonder if the debs will weary of it. Owen was happy to see some of his old friends, one whom he introduced to me as his "dad". I fell for it, too. Only old friends can yuk around like that, isn't that lovely??? Some of the co-workers from Sandy's nursing days were present, too, plus a good representation of family members, the "real" kind, not like Owen's!

This is a sample of the table and hall decorations the Hilchey's used in getting ready for the Low Country Boil. The tables were dressed with fishnets and little stars which I found stuck to my arms. Those at my table had good fun making the stars stick to their faces, started by Ms. Huntley! I got mine to stay by putting a little spit on it....gross! Don't you just love the blue eyes on this crab? He doesn't look so crabby to me!!!!

As often happens at these gatherings, the dancing is slow in getting started. Owen begged and begged me to come dance with him, as he saw me doing my famous hip shimmying (or was I just walking???). I refused, but eventually he got Ms. Huntley to dance with him, as well as Sandy and Olivia. The disc jockey led some of the dancers through a line-dance routine, which I consider countrified disco, and that got more folks to their feet. Just before we left, a couple took the floor who really knew what they were doing and it was very neat. They even looked the part, wearing their cowboy-style clothing and perhaps even boots, but I was too far away to see. It was a great, great party and I am thrilled to have played even a small part in it!

"Look away, I'm hideous!"

I just applied my daily tar and feather, actually only the tar, for my skin condition and feeling like Justin's reference to "leather faces"! Only, fortunately, mine washes off! At first I applied my mud a bit thicker because it came in a foil packet and I figured I had to use it all at once. This little dab goes a long way so I can still smile and laugh without it chipping away. I enjoy getting compliments on my skin, the lack of wrinkles on my face, to be precise, but am not crazy about the raised dots that might be a complete paragraph in Braille! This treatment really seems to be doing the trick, though, so I can stand looking "hideous" for 5-15 minutes a day!

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The other night as I arrived at Publix on the Island, a car was pulling out of a stall near where I parked. The lady rolled down her window to shout, "I love your hair and your earrings!" Good thing it was dusk and she couldn't see my forehead! I thanked her and skipped into the store...The earrings were from Dee and Julia for my birthday, not any that Lori or Linda had made for me, unfortunately.

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Saturday night was the Redneck Yacht Club Debutante Party for Olivia. I picked up Mrs. Huntley and off we went, with me leaving the directions on my kitchen counter. We two ladies just gabbed and gabbed all the way to Middleburg, getting to know each other better and such. I was fairly certain of where we were going since Justin and I were out that way two weeks ago, but my passenger had me turn on 218 instead of 215. Since I didn't have the directions to reference, Ms. Huntley had me pull into the Waffle House lot from where I called Sandy for verification. Once back on Blanding we drove a bit further to the correct road and then drove right up to the gate. We each did have the proper ID to get onto the base and got further directions from the guard. It was simple to find though by following the signs Hilchey's posted.

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We were about the first to arrive and I got Mrs. Huntley settled before starting to take pictures. I got some shots of the cake, the decorated hall, the buffet set up, the introduction of all the debs in attendance, and then some. Olivia gave me a lovely art glass necklace as a thank you for taking the pictures, but I won't open it until I know she likes the photos!

This is the table set up in the lobby of the Officers' Club. Justin and I both appear in her collage of photos in the left hand frame.

Captured in the Canon!

One of the best things about having a party is getting to spend time with friends. Brenda and Rick used to work with me and are now just good friends, not only to me, but to Justin as well. In teasing him, I told Justin I was only inviting the people who loved him so it was going to be a small party........Although I didn't get photos of them, Cliff and Carol came to fete Justin on his birthday, giving up their usual "nothing gets in the way of" date night to be with him. See? Only the people who love him! Unfortunately, Cindy and Mike had dinner show tickets so could only be there in spirit. Cindy loves Justin and he loves her and they share a love of M*A*S*H.

Here's the table all dressed up for Justin's birthday party. Beyond the table is the river room with that table sporting the lovely glass piece Dee gave me. Justin's "grandma" Twila and "aunt" Jean were there as well as Judy J. The church family was well represented on his big day!! Only a few of the Middleburg family were able to come as the Hilcheys were busy getting Olivia's party together, while the Woodruff's had a death in the family and had a funeral home visit to make. Sandy and Bruce came, as well as the Rosses, so some of our "hurricane" families were present, including Brenda N.!!!!

This fruit plate was simply begging to be photographed so I obliged. Also shown is spinach dip in the sunflower dish Rosses gave me, and the smaller pan is the artichoke souffle Justin loves!

Justin invited a few of his friends to join the fun. From the left is Potts (former roommate), Olivia, Robbie, Justin, Brian, and Josh. All except Robbie are St. Johns kids, Robbie is his church friend since before they were two years old! It is an "accident" that the portrait of Timmy, painted by Dee, shows over Justin's shoulder. When I looked at the photos from the memory card this afternoon, it struck me and I wept a bit.

Since Dena couldn't do the special cake for Justin, I asked Publix to handle it instead! Not too childish and not overly masculine either.
Arriving just a little late, Jessica and Travis came down from upstairs to share in the party. Travis is looking at Justin's scrapbook I did for him at graduation in 2006, and with the help of Twila, added a few pages of more current photos. (Make a note: get the three-ring binder style albums instead of these !@#$#%% post binders!!! It took both of us, each with a screwdriver to get those pages in the album!)
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The Powell's were also expected at the party but Travis reported that their A/C had gone out and some repair people were going to be there to make the repairs. Too bad about the A/C and too bad they couldn't come to Justin's party. Since VBS was finishing up that night, Paul, Emily, and Sarah arrived just a bit late, as well. Sarah was quite excited about coming, she loves Justin but is shy around him. They gave Justin a book about The Dark Knight and he was absolutely thrilled! He got many nice gifts and gift cards that night, plus the ever-appreciated cash. My gift was a big book about The Beatles with a gift certificate for a car detailing and oil change. Not a flashy gift but I know what he likes and needs.
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His family in WI either sent cards or sang birthday greetings to him. His aunt asked me to extend birthday wishes to him before she hung up Saturday. So far we haven't heard from his godfather but Lynn, his other baptismal sponsor, has sent a card, yet to arrive. At the steak fry, they never forget his birthday because he shares it with the hostess! Lori was always ticked that he wasn't born the next day instead, on HER birthday!

This TV Guide crossword puzzle book is kicking my butt!

During moments of meditation, I work on a TV Guide puzzle book kept on the back of the lav. I hope it's not me getting more stupid but it seems as though fewer and fewer of the clues result in immediate answers. Some clues are so absolutely obscure that I'd slap the person who actually knew the answer without looking it up. I am happy the solutions are printed in the back of the book or I'd have flushed it down page by page before now! It just irritates me being "clueless" when it comes to answering these supposed "common knowledge" hints, like the middle name of the co-host of the morning show in Cleveland, OH, in 1976. Please!

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To my delight, I just hit the Spell Check button and I got the answer I love the most: No misspellings found!!!!!! Life's simple pleasures......

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In a moment I am getting dressed for church but have to wait until my mud mask dries. Once it's on for 10-15 minutes, I can scrub like nuts to get it off, and watch the breakout on my face disappear. It seems to be doing the trick, and I hope it's not merely an illusion. As I am getting ready for worship, I'll assume Robbie is as well. He is in Morton Grove, IL with the Pranges, and is playing the organ at Jerusalem Lutheran Church, Pete's congregation. I nearly wept when I heard he was going to have the privilege and would LOVE to have been there to hear it, hear him, praise the Lord at Jerusalem this morning, with some of my loved ones in the house! Break a leg, Robbie!

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After this service they are heading to the Worship Conference in MN together. This was something I considered attending as well, to hear and sing with the chorus, once again being able to sing "Jerusalem, the Golden". WWAAYY too emotional for me, but I could do it, I think.......

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"I know not, oh, I know not what joys await us there, what radiancies of glory, what bliss beyond compare......"

Steak fry vs. Low Country Boil

Well, I'm up, I'm dressed, what more do you want? Approximately 30 minutes ago I finally put on a full day's clothing, and it's nearly 4:45 p.m.!

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It's not like I was in my nightie all day long, but for many of the a.m. hours this was so. My sister-in-law called and we talked about everything under the sun for nearly 3 hours, which prevented me from getting dressed. However, I did manage to struggle into my swim suit while on the phone because she is a really good talker. I got an update on my father-in-law and his seeming weariness with living these days. Nothing really brings much excitement in his life anymore, especially since he's 90+. She thought summer would bring some renewed vigor after the long hard winter. It seems as though his medications might be the culprit keeping him back. That, and age.

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After hanging up with her, I went down to the pool before it started to rain and ordered my hot dog and chips. No adult beverage for me since I'm going out to Camp Blanding tonight for Olivia's party. I am also the designated driver on Mrs. Huntley, who lives near the entrance of The Club in a magnificent Spanish-style mansion. Once at the low country boil, I am the official photographer. My hope is that I capture all the moments they want tonight and not miss anything. The hired photographer from the other parties snaps every thing but I won't be as intrusive as she is. I hope.............

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Last night was Justin's birthday party and it pulled off without a hitch, Judy R.

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Of course, the day of the party, mid afternoon, the heavens opened and it poured buckets just when I was about to leave to pick up the artichoke souffle Justin wanted. Joan had introduced us to it at another party and he expressed a desire to have it again, me choosing the birthday. Timing is everything and, with his diet, having dip and toast corners isn't really what he should be nibbling on. He had 1 pound to go before reaching his goal of losing 10% of his weight by his birthday. Ooops! I hope having the party didn't sabotage him!

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At this writing, I can hear thunder again. It rained big time when I was down at the pool, causing us all to take shelter in the cabana. As it let up, I said "bye" to Chris, the cabana boy, and told him I'd see him tomorrow. I was quite chilly when getting upstairs but didn't feel like getting dressed yet, so put on my robe instead.

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Once comfy, I called Mom to see what the poor people were doing today. Mom was busy getting ready for the annual steak fry at my cousin's house. This is a major social event in the family, celebrating my cousin's birthday, as well as my sister, Lori's, birthday, which is tomorrow. The Schippers have come over from Holmen and stayed with Lisa in Sheboygan for a change, instead of at Mom's. She reported that Lisa fell down the stairs in her home again, and had to visit the chiropractor for an adjustment. Thank the Lord it was only this doctor she's had to see! Last time she stepped on an errant toy, and fell while carrying an uninjured Manny, but don't know what caused the fall on this occasion. Ouch!

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So much to do today!

The day started early since the housekeepers had to come back first thing to vacuum my bedroom. It seems it was overlooked yesterday when they were here and the ladies very nicely came right back to do it. Like I told the owner of the company, it's not like I'm a big complainer or anything, but since I have the cleaning only once a month, it's important this be done. Yes, I do own a lovely vacuum cleaner, but that's not the point. He said it was no problem, the girls would pop in and get it taken care of pronto. And it was so!

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After VBS last night, I stopped at "Robbie's" Publix to get some stuff for the party and while I was still on the phone with "Auntie Joanne", observed police activity in front of the store as well as managers outside with scrub brushes and mops, cleaning something from the sidewalk. I thought perhas a nasty spill, like syrup or another staining purchase, but Robbie told me later it was blood, from an apparant hit and run! Wow! Robbie was the one to report it, saw a man lying part way in the driveway near the curbing. I must have just missed the ambulance leaving.

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Oh, my nails look terrible, I must attend them! I finished the last of the photos for VBS last night and have tried e-mailing two of them to the husband of the lady in charge of crafts. He's never printed photos before so if he can't figure it out, I'll have to come up with an alternate plan to get them over to church. Bonnie offered to come and get them, and I may say, "okay" to that, depending upon my day.

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Justin came by yesterday to help me with a small project and to have a chat. He had some stuff to talk to me about, future-wise, and I am flattered that he still seeks my counsel! The housekeepers don't dust my chandelier the way it needs to be cleaned, as dust gathers in the little cups that support the bulbs. It's a two-person job anyway so he gets on the stool and disassembles the lamps, I run to the kitchen to wash and dry the cups, and then he puts them back on. Even the bulbs get dusty, imagine that! It didn't take very long at all to get that done and it looks so much nicer when it is fresh and clean. The last time we did it was back in December before the family arrived. And now it will be done before another group arrives in August!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

This is a shot from the river room looking into the dining room, where the table is dressed for the Ladies' Group CHRISTmas party. The flowers on top of the curio were a gift from the florist who used to do up the arrangements for the cemetary. When she went out of business, she made this up with our favorite choices of flowers, lots of irises and sun flowers!!

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Anyway, I still have some stuff in the car that I couldn't carry up last night so will need to make a couple trips down....maybe I'll find Dave to give me a hand with the heavier stuff. He's such a good helper! On Wednesday I opened my kitchen cabinet and discovered it was alive with very frisky ants! Oh, man! Mom had just told me on Sunday that she was battling ants and now I had them. I don't know how they came in but Dave came up with his trusty spray and went all around the perimeter of the house, inside and out, and under the cabinets because he was concerned about spraying where food was stored. I told there's not much in there but still..........I also found ants in the spice cabinet and did what Mom suggested with the chili powder. Didn't work!

*By the next morning almost all the ants had disappeared. Except, we had not checked in the pantry closet and sure enough, it was now also alive with frisky ants! I'd bought some of the ant trap things and put them in place. By later in the day, the ants seemed to be at home in their ant trap! I am so puzzled as to where they came from in the first place! Perhaps the box of kitty litter I just emptied into the cat box? Hopefully the plague will be over and not a moment too soon!

I began the day as a big weenie.....

....but it turned out okay! Since the sun was out when I awoke, I figured it would be okay to go down for the water aerobics class. It's that "sun" thing, you know? Once I was suited up and had my beach cover on, off I went. Only Randy, the only gentleman in our class, was there so far and he was keeping an eye out for our leader, so he could help carry her equipment.

One of the other ladies came and commented that the pool was still dirty, as the pool man is usually there before we arrive. She stepped into the pool and declared it to be cold, but went ahead and puddled around. I was having serious second thoughts about this, since the sun was no longer shining and the water was cold. My throat is already sore and don't want to be sicker than I am now. Ellen came out and wondered where our leader was, as it was getting late. I told her about my throat and she offered me some Zicam's, which she used over the weekend to help her sore throat and head cold.

I went to my car to get the rest of my groceries from last night, nothing perishable, never fear, and took it upstairs. In turning on my computer I discovered an e-mail from Dawn apologizing for oversleeping this a.m. and not making it to class! Whew, now I feel better!!!

Ellen came by with the Zicam and some other stuff for me. Billy autographed a couple things for me to give to my friend for her seriously ill cousin. Huh? David is a fan and it would boost his spirits to have some special things from his favorite band, so they did this for him.

Last night at VBS was less hectic since I had only one walk-up to get registered and ID'd (is that right?) whereas the night before I think I had 8 walk-ups. The kids get home and tell their friends about VBS and bring them along the next day----according to plan! Emily made mac and cheese for dinner and it was delicious. Fortunately, no storms came in the evening so the games could be played outdoors, team-building type games that are fun as well.

Tonight is my turn to present the meal and we are having pizza! No muss, no fuss! After I closed up shop last night I went to Publix for a few things and ran into Brenda N. She has to buy "special" food for her gentleman friend who has been put on a diet to lower cholesterol and his borderline diabetes. BUT, he claims the doctor recommended the Atkins diet, which I find difficult to believe, since my doctor said the thing about Atkins is that it puts you 10 years closer to a heart attack! Supposedly his doctor claimed the other benefits would outweigh the downside of this diet but she wasn't there to hear it herself. I suggested she get him some fiber pills to take as well because Atkins has a tendency of resulting in constipation. Oh, brother!

My friend, Sharon, has some skin care products for me to pick up, as I am still having trouble with some outbreaks along my hairline. We thought it might have been caused by the gel I use in my hair, but even changing brands didn't help. I still need those Hicky-Off Pimple Pads with Plastic Filler that Cheech and Chong talked about.

I have been trying to print off the photos for the VBS craft project but am having a problem with my one printer. It asked me for a new cartridge but for some reason, it won't recognize that it's been replaced. Maybe Justin can wiggle it around for me when he arrives later on. He's working outdoors these days between showers, pulling weeds, and absolutely hates it. I cannot believe he's doing it because of his fear of spiders.....I had to pay other people to take care of the weeds and such at the lake house!!!

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Twila came over to crop yesterday and we had a great time doing it. No sooner was she in the door and the bad weather started to brew. She said the sky in the north was quite black and it wasn't long before the radio reported a thunderstorm warning for our area. Twila saw the guys on the dredger taking off in their boat, so they knew to take cover. So often the lightning will be dancing across the sky and open boats are cruising by on the river. Not smart or safe!

I've gotten the church newsletter complete and ready to e-mail on Saturday. Friday will be too busy plus I wrote from the perspective that VBS is already done, so Saturday, off it goes! Saturday night is Olivia's party at Camp Blanding and I am excited about it. This will be a welcome distraction to Justin's birthday celebration with his friends, I don't want to know what's going on...........at least most of me doesn't.....Peer pressure can come into play no matter how old you are and Justin knows that, but often reminds me that he knows firsthand he is not invincible. I can't let myself get all in a knot over it, though. Owen, that sweetheart, offered to come and pick me up in case I didn't want to drive "way out there" but really, it's fine. I love the sentiment, however.

Okay, so now it's time to finish the photo printing and work on The Palace Press for our building, due out next week. The cleaners are coming for their monthly visit so when I head to the post office and to see Sharon, they will have the run of the place. Again, there's little they can do with my desk and surrounding area, but my goal is to have this mess dealt with before Lynn, Lisa, Noah, and the boys get here next month. Can she do it?? Stay tuned!

VBS Week at church

It's been a busy one already this week and it's only Tuesday! I am the greeter, registrar and official photographer for the event. On Thursday I am in charge of the dinner, and if our numbers stay up, I'll be ordering pizza for 40 people! Wow! Paul suggested getting the Pizza Mia pizzas which are only $5.00 each, and serve 8. This should work.

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I am a bit stiff and achy from water aerobics, as strange as this may seem. It would be expected with impact-type exercises but not when we are bobbing about in the water. Today we used foam bar bells and did a number of different maneuvers to strength our arms and backs. Last time they used only the noodles (I stayed away that morning because it was too cold for me to join them!) and today only the bar bells. Nice people and not too difficult.

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This morning in the e-mail I received a wonderful compliment---my new friend, Sharon, who was in the car accident last week, asked me to pen a letter to the Editor of the St. Augustine Record from her. She wanted to extend her gratitude to the unknown Good Samaritans who stopped to lend aid and rescue them from their upside-down vehicle. She approved my first draft, saying I wrote it as though I was a witness to the accident! I only wrote what I remember her saying about it on Sunday at the pool.

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My friend, Linda J., got some wonderful news on Saturday while visiting their son near Chicago. Matthew gave her a package with a web cam in it and said, "Here's so you can keep an eye on all three of your grandchildren." Well, so far, there are only two grands, but that was Matt's way of saying, "We're pregnant!!!!!" Tears flowed all around, even down here in Florida for this most excellent and long-awaited news!

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Martie and I went shopping and lunching on Monday, starting out at the Dollar Tree store in Argyle. I was told I could find bandannas there, but unfortunately, there were none to be had. We went down a few stores to Michael's and asked the young lady if they had any. She answered, almost apologetically, that they did have some bandannas in the $1.00 baskets. Oh, that's okay, I can manage with these! The colors were vibrant and we took all but two of them from the bin. What a great find and saved us from going to yet another store in search of these scarves. They are to be used for a game Lynn Kuske is running for VBS. Can't wait to see the bright colors on the playground!

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After Michael's, we rode together toward 5 Points in historic Jacksonville in search of the Bloomer's store. I was on a mission to have a professional bra fitting. (Sorry if I offend anyone with this story!) When we got there, I told the nice lady I was there for a front-end alignment. She thought that was the funniest thing, and shared that with her co-workers just before we left. We had a couple more funnies before leaving with our purchases, mine worn right out of the store. I thought about just wearing the bra and walking down the street but was afraid I'd cause a traffic accident or something. (Seinfeld reference again!) Martie got an undergarment for herself, too, but didn't wear hers out of the store. The nice lady ordered a couple more of the same style and size bra for me and will call when they come in. It wasn't as expensive as I expected it to be, since one of the ladies Sunday said it could run as high as $60! So, when I saw how much mine was, it didn't seem so expensive. And the fit is terrific, the What Not To Wear people would be pleased.

*

This morning, after I got back upstairs from the pool, I saw Justin had called. He asked if I would take him for a haircut today sometime and would go where ever I wanted him to go. I called my regular ladies and one of them could take him if he came immediately, so off he went. I met him down at the salon and he was already in the chair. What a pile of hair on the floor!!! He looks so handsome now, even shaved off his little beard. He is self-conscious about his chins yet, so might grow the beard back in. Justin doesn't want to get that chicken-looking neck some get when losing lots of weight. I believe he's young enough yet that his skin will adjust, especially if his loss is gradual. I am proud of his weight loss and new grooming habits......he said he wanted to "look spiffy" for his birthday, using Gabe's expression.

*

I went to see my lady friends after leaving the beauty shop, since Justin used his lunch hour to get his haircut. After leaving their shop, I headed for home to work on printing off some photos taken last night at VBS for the craft lady. She needs prints of all the kids to put in a frame they are assembling. I only hope I get photos of all the children and not miss anyone. After VBS tonight I stopped at Office Max to buy more paper and an ink cartridge so I can print some more. She needs 4 x 6 sized photos, so I can only get one per page, the way my program is set up.

*

Tomorrow brings some friends to crop for a bit in the afternoon. I love having them come! I can work on cutting the photos apart and get them ready for VBS tomorrow night, plus I can also work on more bags for Travis. I missed out on a luncheon for my lady financial advisor who is running for an at-large seat on the Board of Supervisors. Thursday both Travis and Diane invited me to a debate but alas, I am occupied in the evenings this week....I really enjoyed the last debate I attended, met some nice folks there and heard everyone's stump speech.

*

I am quite sleepy so will put myself to bed now. Last night I had to get up to turn off my family room light, which comes on by remote control, operated by Travis' remote! When I came back to bed, I noticed the moon was out, but was a dark orangish red color, very neat. We'd had nasty weather in the evening but this moon broke through the clouds enough to look absolutely eerie!

I've made a huge mistake this morning

I watched a movie which always "gets" me--"Pay it Forward". The little boy initiates the concept of doing favors for folks and then asking in return that the recipients do favors for three other people and so on. His teacher describes it as "utopian", but I call it God's Plan. "...for when I was naked, you gave me clothes; when I was hungry, you fed me; when I was sick, you took me in"....a paraphrase of the text from Matthew, but you get the picture. "So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets."

*

What gets me in this movie is how this intense child works so hard to "fix" things in peoples lives, and ends up dying of a stab wound at the end. His theory or project of Pay It Forward has gone out all over the country due to a story done by a reporter who heard about it in L.A., and he wouldn't rest until he determined the "source" of this miraculous event. A child? Really? The reporter was just blown away. Sometimes we try to fix things in our lives, using our own tools instead of the ones God gave us, and more often than not, end up getting 'stabbed', too!

*

A friend of mine from long ago was talking with me once about the charitable groups she supports and raises money for, etc. She told me not only did it make her "feel good" to be helping people, but it was also good publicity, and, on top of that, a tax write-off. Well, no good deed ever goes unpunished, I've heard. Someone else told me once that a "deed isn't good if anyone else knows about it". I like that, really do.

*

I woke up tired again this morning, probably because I was so busy at work in my dreams again. Once more I was working in the nursing home back in Manty, playing 'beat the clock' with setting the tables and washing the dishes, trying to remember whose turn it was to load the dish washing machine, take off or clear tables. We rotated every month. I've been out of there for 20 years now and still can't remember whose turn it is! At one point in my dream I left my position to run outside and greet Martie's sister, June, who was coming across the lawn with my sister, Lori, and her hubby, David!!! And the fireman were outside on the street collecting money for Jerry's Kids............Joseph, where are you when I need a dream interpreted????? For years and years, I've had this dream of being back at work at Shady Lane, struggling to get the trays upstairs under the most trying of circumstances, as though everyone is doing what they can to prevent my getting the people fed up there.........hidden frustration? Someone elses' fault???

*

After one of these nights of frustrating dreaming, I told my then husband that I was so tired yet in the morning. He said, "Of course you are! You were up all night working!"

A full, full day

Besides my time spent on-line exploring cruises this a.m., I also watched part of a "What Not to Wear" episode while waiting to hear from Joan and Haley about the movie plans. Originally we were going to the theater first for the earliest showing of the day, and then to lunch. Joan did call to report that Haley was hungry so we were having lunch first and then going to a later movie, which was fine with me. We met Haley up at Honey B's, their first visit. We each had a piece of pie for dessert, cutting off a portion to share with the others. Mine was sour cream and berry with a meringue top. Ymmmmm!

*

Martie had called last evening to invite me to join her family in celebrating Ernie's birthday tonight. Instead of her cooking a meal, after working all day, we are going to eat at the China Buffet. I'd not been to a China Buffet since leaving Manty and now I'll be going twice in a month's time, the previous time being with Twila before Ladies' Group. Ernie is not much for socializing so this is a huge deal to have him go out to eat. We are punishing him on his birthday!

*

Jen had called also last night, after their week in Orlando, to see if I could meet them for dinner. Nuts! I'd already accepted an invitation to attend a function at The Club for the debutantes, going as Olivia's "person". She didn't want to call me her 'date', so 'person' works for me. It's nice to be a person once in awhile!! We had a marvelous evening, all dressed up, Owen in his tuxedo and looking quite handsome. Olivia was drop-dead gorgeous in her mocha-colored dress, and Sandy spiffy in a two-piece black suit with a lovely broach to set it off. (Sounds like a fashion writer----I could write for J. Peterman's catalog!!!) The party theme was James Bond so there were gaming tables set up and some folks came dressed in Bond movie attire. Justin asked me if I was going to wear something backless...........Silly Justin! I wore the ruby blouse Mom gave me for my birthday and looked just fine fully dressed!

*

Again I saw many of Justin's classmates as well as his friend, Ryan, resplendent in his tuxedo. His girlfriend remarked that not many guys his age own their tuxedos, but I know Ryan has gotten much use from his through high school and into college. Justin had seen of the guys at the movies the previous night, going to the midnight presentation of "The Dark Knight", a Batman movie. He was out so late that night, he overslept and was an hour late getting to work on Friday morning. I gave him the look and a tiny lecture about this sort of irresponsible behavior. I wonder if I'll lose any clout with him after he turns 21 next weekend.........

*

Anyway, back to Jennifer----she called back today while I was in the car with Joan to ask me to join her parents at La Napolera for dinner. Rosses wouldn't be there but her folks, who like Justin and me, wanted me to come with them. I had to turn them down, too, since I'm already invited to the China Buffet, but accepted the offer to join them at their home for games and such after dinner. Rosses will be there in time for the "games to begin"! I'll do that when we're finished at the Buffet, since certainly Ernie won't want to hang around long afterward. Whew! What a breakneck pace to keep.....

*

While waiting for my ride this a.m. my neighbor, Rose, asked me if I was going out to the pool today, because the rest of our "gang" was planning to be there. Our mutual friend, the skin care lady, Sharon, had been in a roll-over accident Monday on the way back from St. Augustine. Her friends' car was totalled but the two ladies sustained "only" patchable injuries, the kind requiring stitches and such. Thank the Lord no one was more seriously hurt! I told Rose my day was spoken for but will make sure to get out to the pool after church tomorrow. I missed everyone last week when they were gone or taking care of family, but I managed nicely by myself.

*

My usual cake baker, Dena, is going to be on vacation next week so won't be able to make Justin's birthday cake. I asked Jen if Ricky would be around and interested in making a cake for Justin. They must check his schedule and such before committing to it, but I'll have Publix on stand-by to make the cake for him. I just love Dena's cakes, and am sorry it didn't work out. For my sake as well as hers, to help her business grow.

*

It has begun to rain and lightning, just in time for me to head out. Travis had invited me to join in a bbq for the candidates over on Doctors Lake today but my schedule didn't allow. I'd gotten an entire box of stuffed bags ready for him to hand out as his team of walkers were hitting the neighborhoods off Moody Road before the bbq. I ran out of pens so had to quit stuffing yesterday. It's the least I can do, since I am not taking on the task of going door to door. I talk too much!

"There will be questions........"

I just got home from seeing "Mamma Mia", still reveling in the moment.....

The actors did a fantastic job of it, but were seriously paled by the scenery. Half way through the movie I was all set to come home and pack my bags for a lengthy stay in Greece. Oh, the longing is making my head spin!! I remember Konstantine, our guide on St. Paul's 2nd Missionary tour, described it as a "Greek state of mind", this similar "state of mind" for Italy, as well. Should all my decisions be so difficult!!!!

*

Of course, I do not want to give away the plot of the movie except to say---besides a little dose of 'suggestive' subject matter---it was an almost 'get up on your feet and dance' experience. It brought tears a little bit in places, perhaps not to everyone; to someone who has had to say "good-bye" to a loved one, yeah, it brought tears, but few.

How odd to be so taken away by this movie, since the early hours this a.m. were spent scouting cruises and destinations for the trip planned in 2009 with a couple lady friends. We want to get as much bang for our buck and I'd just love to take them to Alexandria to see the pyramids and sphinx at Giza, and the museum of the antiquities, and the beautiful coastline cities in Croatia, and Thira on the mountain-top in the Greek Isles..............That's alot of bang!!!

Just look at that face! Who wouldn't be delighted to have a cafe named after themselves????? And that blue, blue water........

*

There is a part in the movie where these "unwanted" gentlemen arrive on the island and the proprietess of the villa wants to remove them, shall we say, permanently. One of her lady friends dissuade her from causing the men bodily harm, because "there will be questions". This threw me into controlled hysterics, just tickled my funny bone. "There will be questions".........

What a ride I've been on this morning!

Linda H. sent me an e-mail this morning. In her opening remarks, she said she thought long and hard before sending it, but felt I would like to read this story. Evidently, she receieved it by mistake, it was meant to be addressed to another Linda in her office. Never has a mistake been so "correct"!

*

What Linda sent was a newsletter for First Baptist Church here in my town, with a story about a former member whose 4 year old daughter died earlier this month of meningitis. Both the father and the mother gave amazing testimonies regarding their faith in the Lord and His salvation promises.....so many of their words were reminiscent, their feelings, fears, sense of loss, which is really really quite fresh yet for me. Wow, what a trip I was to go on already today!!!!

*

Through this article, I found the link to the family's blogsite and read more and more testimony, especially enjoying the part written by Hope, the mom of the child who died, who says "I long for heaven". Could have been written by me. I also found a link to another site, a youtube.com story about Rick Burgess of the "Rick and Bubba" radio show. His "memorial" given at his 2 year old sons service is titled "A Father's Heart", where he gives praise and thanks to the Lord instead of blaming God for taking his child away. A remarkable testimony. His little boy drowned in the family pool on, of all days, January 19, 2008! So, my fingers have been busy ever since Linda thought long and hard about sending me her mistaken e-mailed newsletter!!!!

*

I made sure to tell the parents of the little girl who died to not worry about anyone suggesting they "get over it" and encouraged them to keep talking about the faith and hope in salvation that sustains them. These things happen to God's purpose, for us to use, with the Holy Spirit, to extend His kingdom. It would be most unfortunate to let an opportunity slip by without sharing the Good News with someone!

No ranting tonight

In reading my friend, Jami's, blogsite this morning, she had a whole section which could be deemed "rant", prompting me to write a comment to her about us both being full of vitriol yesterday! How funny! I also noticed on some photos she posted that she and I have another thing in common---Obsession cologne! One thing we formerly had in common was our love for Diet Coke but since her surgery, Jami has kicked the habit pretty much. Good for her, bravo!

*

She's been putting her recuperation time to good use, leading her readers on a path about forgiveness, and about how it eludes us. She has referenced the Scriptures, showing where the Lord encourages us to forgive others as we are forgiven, and also where there is "nothing new under the sun". Ain't that the truth!!! This "walk" is helpful for the work she does at the prison. And for all of us on this side of the wall.....

*

This afternoon while making up the bags for Travis, I watched back to back "Frasier" episodes, the series ender. It's Martin and Ronnie's (a woman) wedding being planned, Niles and Daphne's baby due any second, Frasier's girlfriend moving to Chicago, just a whole lot of stuff going on. Daphne ended up having the baby while in the vet's office, and Niles came out into the waiting room to find Frasier and the happy couple, while giving a bottle of milk to a monkey. The looks on their faces were priceless!!!! When they went into the vet's operating room and saw the real infant, Ronnie said, "That twin is going to be jealous all his life!!!" and I was hysterically laughing. Without giving away the entire story, and I may have already, the ending is quite sad with all the good-byes and misunderstandings between them all, thinking Frasier is dying instead of simply moving away.......ooops! I gave it away!!!!

*

Since I was going to dinner with Julia, I shouldn't have spent the afternoon in tears, but my eyes were back to normal by the time we met. It had been a long while since I ate at Koko's and received a royal welcome when we came in. One of the chefs shook my hand and commented about not seeing me in a long time. He said he thought since Matt left that I left too. This made me feel sad because I certainly wasn't doing it on purpose, it just didn't work out to go there all the time like we used to. The chef who cooked for our table always remembers how much I like onions and made sure I got lots of them, didn't give me the shrimp but let Julia have mine, and put an extra dot of butter on top my rice, all without my asking him. I don't really need the extra butter anymore since I've learned to use the shrimp sauce but didn't want to hurt his feelings. Even the bartender knew to put my rum and diet into a tall glass without being asked----there is nothing like excellent customer service!

*

Yesterday late afternoon I went to Hang Ups and picked up Justin's birthday present for his father. He'd not done any shopping or preparation for the birthday but never fear, Mom's on top of it! Julia had told about this fantastic aeronautical chart/map that was unclaimed for a long time and she was going to use it in her "garage sale" in the fall. I knew that sounded like a nice gift for his father so I made sure it remained unclaimed until we came to get it. He was going to take it to his father's house tonight before the guys headed off to the movies. Justin came by here to pick it up since it was still in my car, so I got to see him for a couple minutes, just long enough for him to ask me for some cash money to use at the movies! He cleaned me out, plus got a nice present for his father! That guy can sure work the room, can't he?

*

After going to Hang Ups Wednesday, I went down to the booty shop to get my hair taken care of, opting to keep the top a bit longer than usual this time. Susan, the proprietor, commented how much she liked my hair BEFORE I had it cut, a Murphy's Law, so in discussing it with Barbara, decided to keep it a tiny bit longer. This might make for more frequent trims, though, so we'll see how that goes. I can't have it touching my ears, you know!

*

Judy J. came to meet me after my hair appointment and we shared a basket of fried dill pickles at Whitey's. We each ordered the fish 'n chips, and she took the combined leftovers home to her grandson for him to consume. She says nothing stays long in the fridge since the two boys moved in with her last spring. Judy had some stuff she needed to talk about with me and then the Hilchey's arrived. As soon as Judy finished her meal and we said "good-bye" to each other, I moved over to the Hilchey's table and sat with them. There is only so much of me to go around......moreso since having the fried pickles! It's great to have someone to share the pickles with, as a basket is way too many for one person to eat, and they won't give me a half order.

*

On the way home from Whitey's I stopped at Publix to buy some envelopes and stamps to finish a mailing I was working on. There I met my former next door neighbor and got some nice hugs from Mike. He called his wife to report his Kim siting, and Judy wanted to make sure we got together. We made plans to get meet at Shogun. They no longer eat at Koko's three times a week like they used to, but preferring now Shogun. I'll wear three layers of clothing to eat there, because it's so very cold. Maybe their company will warm me up! Heather, the daughter who is the same age as Justin, is presently on a trip to Egypt so I am excited to hear about her trip!

*

Another program I watched while stuffing campaign bags was one called "10 Years Younger". Women surrender themselves to a team of "remodelers" who strive to take at least 10 years off their looks. They will get dermabrasion, teeth whitening or reconstructing of their teeth, and some even undergo LASIK eye surgery----at the networks' expense! Wow! They show the women having the eye surgery, which I had performed on myself eight years ago. Then, they see themselves and start to cry, so happy to be without glasses.

I have a problem with that, since I had strict orders to not cry until the healing was complete. Maybe it's changed in the past 8 years but I can't help but remember how difficult it was to avoid weeping back then, with all the junk going on in my life. My final tweaking procedure took place after Timmy died, so man, I had my work cut out for me, to not cry and wreck my eye. The last surgery was postponed until August, I think, in order to allow enough time to go by after his death. Through the magic of TV, these ladies undergo amazing "corrections" in a short period of time, get new outfits to wear, and end up looking "10 Years Younger". I only saw this show because I was too lazy get up and change the channel, being so engrossed in my bag stuffing!

*

Lisa called last night to report sitting in the darkened house, making peanut butter and jelly sandwiches for supper because their power was out. Apparently some wretched weather came through and knocked down trees and power lines all over the place. The good news was she had enough battery power on her computer to play DVDs for the boys before bed, as they are accustomed to having CDs going when they fall asleep. Manny had a landmark day, actually a week, by using the toilet all by himself. Yippee! Like I told Lisa, their trip down here will be so much nicer if they don't have to concern themselves with diapers and finding places to change him. I have a washer to use if an accident happens, for any of us!!!!!!!

Here's some more photos for you!

Olivia and Justin posing nicely for the camera at the Debutante event on Sunday. He's thrilled with how slim his face is looking due to his weight loss and hair cut! Olivia is wearing the necklace we brought back for her from Mt. Etna, made from polished lava rocks. Really popped against her light skin!

Here's a candid shot of Owen, me and Pat sitting at the table, waiting for the introductions to be completed and having the buffet open. Pat's daughter, Wyndee Lee, is seated directly behind Owen, along with some other girls from St. Johns. Justin was across from me, and was glad that he got to speak with some of his classmates that evening.

Here's Olivia in her lovely party dress and gorgeous necklace!

Justin and Olivia posing once more for the camera, Sunday evening, at the debutante event.

Okay, here's the thing..........

This rant is the equivalent to cleaning off my desk.............

*

I am getting really really tired to watching the previews for upcoming episodes of "Saving Grace" or "Burn Notice" or "In Plain Sight" or or or or.......Nearly all those programs have vile language and conduct, substituting titillation for quality script writing. Even yesterday, as I watched some of my favorite shows, reruns of "Frasier" and "Seinfeld", I was sickened by some of the content of the episodes. Is that a bit of hypocrisy? How come I can "overlook" indiscretion on the one hand and dismiss it totally out of hand on the other????????

*

Why am I watching so much TV these days anyway? Well, in the process of easing the eye fluttering which is often the result of too long in the front of the computer and/or bright lights, I'm taking time away from this screen and "resting" my eyes by watching television. Reading would not be the suitable rest and of course, napping would be ideal but totally non-productive. Not like I am accomplishing much sitting in front of the "box" but its a wonderful substitution for typing or reading on-line.

*

Travis brought the last of the bag stuffing items this a.m. so I guess I could do that instead of watching "What Not to Wear". A couple of the church ladies offered to come and help me out with this project, not because I asked them to, either. They'll do anything to spend some time with this view! Seagulls are swooping about madly today, perhaps in answer to my call for birds to eat the bees. One of the neighbors also noticed the bees on the palm branches and remarked that there's supposedly a "bee shortage", so was happy to see the activity outside the window. Perhaps I spoke too soon about them!

*

The headline on the homepage of the radio station I am listening to states that the city is "outraged" at rate hikes for water and electric costs. Excuse me, but when I heard the report yesterday when it first took place, the reporter commented that "only a dozen" folks spoke against the proposed hike. Of course, this doesn't mean that more people weren't there at the meeting, only this many actually took the mike to voice their opposition. Between the news about the rate hikes (the second in recent months) and the drop in the Dow these days, I hate to even listen to the news! Some people won't listen because of the murders and other tragedies, but I get upset hearing about the economy and the political races. I won't stick my head in the sand, but I do get frustrated and not a little bit frightened about the economic forecasts. The whole world revolves around the construction and real estate markets, and I think people are really coming to realize that. Well, almost the whole world................."everything is economics"---can't remember who said it first, but, man, that's so true!!!

*

Neal, on the radio now, is discussing something which a group of us talked about at a church meeting last week, how men are made out to be simpletons on TV shows and in advertising. Also, how bratty kids are allowed to make both parents look small and use abrasive language when addressing them. Recently I saw a clip from a so-called "reality" show about a couple with eight children, where the TV cameras record their every activity and verbal exchange as though it's entertainment. Again, "The Truman Show", only from 2007-08. The clip shows the husband snapping at his wife: "and what's your problem?" "What's my problem? You are!!" Oh, great, and they've got 8 kids to deal with.....I see an entirely different problem. What pleasure can one garner from watching/listening to real life squabbling between parents?

*

Why do I get my grundies in such a bundle about the reality shows? What do I care? Julia's hubby told me once that they love to watch them---the dancing or performing shows, cooking shows, fashion designers, cake decorators, and all that stuff, in order to switch the focus from their own problems to someone elses. Huh? Because this particular design team, who have cursed and used foul language 'til their heads fall off the entire program, are quite dramatically drummed off the show, I should feel better about my failed cherry pie?? Its not possible to put together an entire sentence on these shows, even on the Preview Channel!!!!, without listening to the constant bleep, bleep, bleeping. My guess is that participants are encouraged to use filthy language in order to "add interest" to a program which would otherwise not have any....

*

I'm out of steam now, I hope you're happy! Time to go have some lunch and rest my eyes. "I'm losing it, Jerry, losin' it!!!!"

*

Just as I am about to send this off, reports are in that the price of oil has dropped due to unexpected supply being discovered. What great news! A lady at the pool and I were discussing life situations recently. We agreed that it is vitally important to remember from whence cometh our help...............

Here's something for you, then, Cindy!

The other night after Justin and I had cleared the personal items away from the gravesite, Cindy called to offer her comfort and let me know she'd been thinking about me that day. This is her strongest trait, offering support, sometimes when it's not even expected. One thing she did tell me, though, is that she is my most faithful reader and objects to the days I post photos only, because "I want to read!!!" That's why the title on the previous blog posting....

*

When I think of Cindy, I can't help but remember the phone call she made just before CHRISTmas in 2000 to let me know how impressed she was with Timmy's growing maturity. She was his teacher in Precious Lambs and spent much time with her arms and legs wrapped around my little frog-boy, trying to keep him reigned in to listen in class.

*

Once he started pre-k at St. Johns, he began to settle down, to listen and do what he was told to do. Hmmm, how'd they do that? Ms. Booth had dots on the floor where the children sat when they arrived in the morning, it was "expected" that they sit there. And they did!!!! I just saw his teacher, Robin Booth, last weekend at "Aeriel's".

*

So, anyway, Cindy called that December night and just gushed, (sorry 'bout that, Cindy!), about how she can't get over the way he's growing up and paying attention in Sunday school and learning his parts for the Christmas program, etc. Does anyone know how valuable that phone call was, and is, to me???? To any parent? I hope all parents and teachers keep this in mind, to not only let people know when their kids are messing up, to also mention the wonderful observations to the parents.

*

The week prior to his practicing with the kids in Sunday school, only his brother had to be at church to rehearse, so Timmy and I were heading to the Mall to shop a bit. While I was talking to Mom on the phone, we drove 'round and 'round the parking lot, looking for a spot to pull into. Anyone who's been here at Christmas knows how impossible a task it is to find a parking place at the Mall. Up and down, up and down, yak, yak, yak. Finally, from the backseat, an impatient Timmy said, "I got it! How 'bout you drop me down at Books a Meelyon (his pronunciation) and you can park the car? How's that sound?" I laughed and told Mom what he suggested. She could just hear him saying that, too. Can you imagine, me letting him out to go running in the store while I continued to circle the lot? He was just too anxious to get inside that store to play with the "Thomas the Tank Engine" stuff in BAM.