Hello to any friends who may be dropping by. I've been MIA, and I can't believe I haven't posted since last Thursday. It's been extremely busy around here...plus I just haven't felt motivated to do any blogging for some reason. Could have something to do with the fact that I have a library bag full of new books and a great new issue of Romantic Homes featuring Cottage Style decorating. I am a voracious reader, and nursing time is the perfect time for reading.
Right now I am reading MaryJane's Ideabook, Cookbook, Lifebook by MaryJane Butters, Frugal Luxuries by Tracey McBride and Writer Mama by Kristina Katz. I already finished The Scarlet Pimpernel by Baroness Orczy, and Garlic and Sapphires: The Secret Life of a Critic In Disguise by Ruth Reichl (recommended by Anna at Pleasant View Schoolhouse). I've also enjoyed perusing the latest issue of Southern Lady. On the docket I have FrugalLuxuries By the Seasons (McBride), Southern Living Landscaping, a Grace Livingston Hill book, a Cath Kidston vintage-style decorating book (both recommended by Anna at Pleasant View Schoolhouse), and a couple of books to try by Dianne Mott Davidson (cozies recommended by Brenda at Coffee, Tea, Books, and Me...she also recommended the MaryJane Butters book and Frugal Luxuries books above). Elisabeth and I are both enjoying TheLady & Sons: Just Desserts by Paula Deen, and Elisabeth has already tried out one awesome recipe for Brown Sugar Squares. Delicious!!!
Last Friday, our homeschool group went on a great field trip to a state park south of here. We enjoyed a pontoon boat ride back into the 'river' and got to see alligators, herons, turtles, and all other kinds of neat plants and wildlife. We also got to see an eagle's nest from a distance. That was really cool! Then we had a picnic lunch and the children enjoyed the playground. All in all, we had a wonderful time, but....
On the way home, the virus that had struck almost everyone else in my household the week before hit me! We were halfway home, and that's not a good place to be when one gets sick! I was yucky all of Friday afternoon, evening, and Saturday morning. I'm just thankful that I didn't get sick while we were back in the swampy river area on a pontoon boat filled with homeschoolers! LOL I'm sure they were glad too!
Yesterday, Mama and Alexander accompanied me to a dermatology appointment in a city about an hour away from here. My other doctor wanted him to check out some 'suspicious' looking spots, but it was nothing. But this was the funny part--just in conversation, I told the dermatologist and his nurse that I had six children, yadda, yadda. Then when I got ready to leave, I told the nurse that she looked so familiar to me. She was young, very sweet, and friendly, and I just thought I knew her from somewhere. She said, "Well, I'm the second of oldest of ten, and our family homeschools. Maybe, we've seen each other somewhere." Her mom was 43. The oldest child was 22 and the youngest was 2.
But after talking more, we couldn't figure out where we would've seen each other. Her family was from a county an hour from here and they'd moved from South Carolina. We laughed and decided it must be the 'large family/homeschool' vibe! LOL And that's not the first time that's happened to me! I seem to zero in on homeschool families out in public...even if they have older children, lots of children, just a few children, or are older parents with all their homeschool children out of the nest! It's weird! I think I have 'homeschool antennae'! LOL
After my appointment, Mama, Alexander, and I had to do a little shopping and get a bite to eat. We had a good day!
Yesterday was also 'technically' our last day of school. We have our 180 days under our belts, but we still have some loose ends to tie up before we wind down for the year. Wesley still must finish reading a couple of Middle Ages resource books, and Ellie needs to finish up her current Sing, Spell, Read, and Write reader. The twins will also be finishing up their Algebra II book, but otherwise we are heading towards home plate! Hooray!
Well, I plan on participating in Kelli's Show and Tell later today. I want to post pictures of one of my most favorite rooms in our house--my kitchen. So, if you like 'blue/white toile kitchens with yellow accents'...stay tuned...more to come! LOL
Some of you may remember that our nursing baby bit me back in November, and I developed mastitis. It was really painful when he nursed, and I had to take antibiotics. But we weathered that storm, and I got better quickly...no other symptoms. So I thought mastitis wasn't *really* that bad. Uh oh...thought wrong!
Last Monday, I did some cleaning in my school closet and had to do some reaching. On Tuesday afternoon, when I felt some soreness in the right 'nursing area' I just assumed I'd pulled a muscle the day before. And when I woke up on Wednesday morning with aching joints, headache, fever, and a general overall 'yuck' feeling...I began to wonder if I had the flu. Yes, it takes me awhile sometimes! LOL Even coffee didn't help! After that, I put two and two together...and called the doctor. My husband had already planned on taking a 'vacation day' that day to catch up on some things around the house, so he was home and had things under control.
My OB/GYN's nurse told me to come on in. A definite case of mastitis. The doctor sent me home with a prescription for a huge bottle of penicillin and orders to drink plenty of fluids and rest. He said if I wasn't better by Friday at 2 pm...I was going in the hospital. Yeah, right, I thought. No way was I going to the hospital!
But by Wednesday night, the hospital was looking pretty good. Other than morning sickness, I don't think I've ever had anything put me out of commission and into the bed for this long. I never run a normal body temperature, ever! My blood pressue also stays extremely low. And if my temp. gets up to 98.6 degrees, I'm usually sick. This time, we couldn't get my temperature to come down from 102 degrees...not even with 1000 mg of Tylenol every 4-6 hours. My head felt as though it was going to explode. I kept having chills, then hot flashes, then chills, then hot flashes, etc. First I wanted an electric blanket, then I'd ask for AC. And my heart kept racing and beating wacky. I honestly wondered if I was having a heart attack or stroke a couple of times during the night. And the pain! Oh...the pain!
After this, I'll have greater sympathy for any mother with this condition. And I have a new respect for all those pioneer women who nursed all their many babies and probably had their share of 'milk fever'! It took 48 hours of antibiotics for my fever to finally break on Friday afternoon. So what did those women of old do before antibiotics? I know they had herbal remedies, and I'm sure they broke out lots of cabbage leaves. Yessiree...I have new respect for those ladies. And I bet they didn't have the luxury of lying in the bed for several days moaning and groaning either! I used to tell my mama that I wished I'd lived during the 1800's, but now I'm not so sure. I don't think I would've made a very good pioneer woman! Methinks I'm a little bit spoiled! LOL The whole time I was thinking to myself, yep, I get to laze around...and I can't even enjoy it! Now, isn't that spoiled??!!!
Well, I guess I can't even really say I didn't get to enjoy it~just a little. By Thursday night, I was feeling up to watching a DVD of an old version of Jane Austen's Emma. And Friday night, I watched a DVD ofThe Magic of Ordinary Days...all while lying abed. Any 'Jane' movie is a treat and The Magic Of Ordinary Days is one of my favorite movies of all time. It's a Hallmark Hall of Fame movie. I highly recommend it!
All during my sickness, Chad and the children kept things going. Elisabeth and Erin are excellent helpers, and they always do a majority of the cleaning and maintainence around here. But this time, Erin even tackled Mt. Washmore. She got all the laundry washed, dried, folded and put away. I don't know what I'd do without my family! I have no doubts whatsoever that they could run this house without me. And even though I wouldn't want anything to happen to me, it's good to know that they could carry on.
My cousin got married over the weekend, and although I missed the bridal luncheon and rehearsal supper--at least I was able to make it to the wedding on Saturday. It was a lovely ceremony, and I got to visit with family members and friends I don't get to see very often. That's always a good thing. And we also made it to our homeschool group supper on Saturday night. We had a wonderful time, and I'm glad we were able to go.
Yesterday, we had a blessed church service, and yesterday afternoon we went on a nature excursion...I'll tell about that in another post. But we did get to see buzzard eggs that will soon hatch. Every year, one of the deacons in our church, who is a farmer, takes us to the old 'ghost' house (a delapidated house) to see baby buzzards. Believe it or not, they are solid white when they first hatch. It's fascinating, but they STINK and hiss and vomit in an intruder's direction...gross! But it's probably something not everyone gets to see (or even wants to). But my children love the yearly experience. More later....
Well, time is a wastin' so I'll close for now. When I think of my bout with mastitis and how miserable I was, I thank the Lord I'm mostly over it now. My lips are covered with fever blisters that hurt. But it's nothing compared to what Heather is going through. So let's keep praying for her and her family. God is still in the miracle business...of that I have no doubt!
It's always a treat to get together with friends and family for food and fellowship, and over the course of the last 2.5 weeks we've been 'treated' several times! We were invited to visit and dine with our good friends, Bob and Dona and their children, a couple of weeks ago. They have recently built a new home...and it is gorgeous! They live out from town a little ways, and it's so quiet and peaceful!
For our meal, Bob grilled chicken and Dona prepared the rest...homemade macaroni and cheese, yeast rolls, peas, and salad. Oh my goodness...everything was absolutely delicious! They are both extremely talented in the culinary department!!!! And for dessert, we had Bob's awesome homemade pound cake and Dona's Strawberry Delight, which was definitely delightful! LOL We had a great time, and the children played to their hearts' content! After supper the adults sat around on their screened-in back porch to enjoy good conversation and the pleasant evening! Since I have a 'fruit theme' running through this post, I hope Dona won't mind if I share her recipe!
DONA'S STRAWBERRY DELIGHT
1st Layer:
1 cup flour
1 cup pecans, chopped
3/4 cup butter or margarine, softened
Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Combine flour, pecans, and butter. Press into a
9" x 13" pan and brown for 18-20 minutes. Allow to cool.
2nd Layer:
3/4 cup sugar
1 cup water
1/4 tsp. salt
2 T. cornstarch
2 T. strawberry jello
1 quart strawberries, sliced
Combine sugar, salt, and cornstarch. Add water and stir. Cook over medium heat. Stir until boiling; boil and stir 1 minute. Remove from heat, and stir in jello and strawberries. Cool before spreading on first layer.
3rd Layer:
3/4 cup sugar
8 oz. cream cheese, softened
12 oz. Cool Whip
Beat sugar and cream cheese. Fold in Cool Whip. Spread over strawberry filling. Garnish with chopped pecans or whole strawberries.
Dona's Note: You can substitute strawberries stirred in strawberry
coating for the second layer.
Last Sunday, my sister and her family were down for Easter. So we all were able to be together at my parent's home for the traditional Easter meal. We enjoyed fried chicken, roast beef, mac/cheese, green beans, rolls, and fruit salad. For dessert, we had the choice of Red Velvet Cake or Apple Pie served with coffee. I can feel those calories adding up just thinking about it! LOL
Now my mama's fruit salad is really, really simple but delicious. Since my BIL is diabetic, she made it pretty much sugar-free with a vanilla pudding coating. Here is the recipe:
Betty's Fruit Salad
First, cut up fruit of your choice (or used canned, drained fruit) and put in large bowl. Then prepare a box of sugar-free instant vanilla pudding according to the box directions and add three small packets of Splenda. Toss with the fruit to coat; refrigerate before serving.
It's always good to be with family, and this time was no exception! My sister and her family live a good three hours away from us, so we always look forward to their visits...which aren't often enough!!!!
Then, this past Wednesday we were once again invited to dine with our good friends, Jabin, Beth, and Lillie. I'm soooooo glad that they don't keep score on the eating together thing, or we'd be digging ourselves out of a hole! LOL It seems as if we are over there a lot enjoying Beth's good cooking, and I need to be reciprocating!!!! As usual, everything was out this world! Here was the menu:
chicken and dumplings (oh.my.word...delicious), peas, salad, glazed baby carrots, and fried lacy cornbread.
And for dessert, we had a wonderful new-to-me recipe called Chocolate Strawberry Shortcake. It's a chocolate-type dessert biscuit that is sliced, then topped with ice cream and strawberries. Heavenly! I demanded sweetly requested that Beth post the recipe on her blog! LOL As with the other recipes, you MUST try this out!
After supper, Erin (Photographer Twin) did a little photo shoot with Lillie. Now, Lillie is adorable and extremely photogenic with HUGE blue eyes, so she was a perfect 'subject'. And afterward, Erin was able to practice her new 'selective coloring' technique and skills on the digital photos on our computer. But realize, that the colors you see are actually the true colors...and yes, her eyes really are that blue!! Erin puts a black/white layer over the original color layer, then uncovers 'selected' parts of the photo. Below are a few of my favorites, but you can see more here on Beth's blog.
And I just have to sneak in one more. This is a photo of our great-nephew, and Erin did 'selective coloring' on just his blanket. I thought it was really sweet!
Well, I hope you enjoyed this culinary/photographic post! My mouth is watering just thinking about all this delectable food....maybe I need to go eat some breakfast!! LOL To conclude, like I always say...the food was delicious and the fellowship was delightful! Thank you Lord for family and friends! And thanks to Bob, Dona, and children, Jabin, Beth, and Lillie, and Mama and Daddy! We had a wonderful time!
Today has been another busy day with Spring Cleaning around here. I actually did get my closet cleaned out, and now I just keep opening the doors to look in there. Do any of you ever do that kind of thing? When I clean out the refrigerator I gather my family together to gaze at the nice clean shelves and we all ooh and ahhh. You'd think we were looking at the crown jewels or something. Yes, I know...I'm sort of strange. I'm one of 'those' kind of people who thrives on praise, and I like someone to notice when I scrub the potty, or clean mirrors, or you fill in the blank...so I take it upon myself to point it out to them. Yes, I know...get over it...life isn't like that! It should be enough that *I* know in my little heart that I did a good job and that I'm doing a service for my family...quietly and unselfishly! Honestly, I really do understand that concept...it's just that sometimes I'm not very good at it! LOL But I digress...
Anyway, my closet is good to go. I got rid of quite a few things and organized the rest. It's a great feeling! But (as I hang my head in shame) I must admit that I did NOT get to the part where I was going to conquer the 'endless abyss' under my bed. But I will. I've been 'putting out fires' in other areas of the house, and under my bed is, well, you know, under my bed. Out of sight! So for the moment, it's been knocked down a few notches on the big to-do list. And for that matter, I don't expect that my dust bunnies hiding under there will take off hopping down the bunny trail anytime soon. They'll still be there when I get to it! LOL Tomorrow we are heading out of town to visit my husband's side of the family for the day, so any other projects are on hold at least until Saturday!
Today we had our regularly scheduled activity day with our homeschool group. We always have a good time, and today was no exception. The children have fun being together, and the moms do A LOT of talking and laughing. We are so blessed to have such a close-knit group, and for that I'm thankful!
I almost forgot...I was going to tell about Chad's present. Below is a picture of what we gave him:
It's a programmable Mr. Coffee 10-cup coffee maker with thermal carafe. It is very nice and modern, and we are impressed! Our last coffee maker was a Black and Decker, and it lasted about 15 years. For the last two years, the water reservoir has leaked unless we immediately made the coffee as soon as the water was added. Therefore, no setting the timer for next-morning coffee. After a couple of mornings of scratching my head and wondering why the countertop was covered in water and there was no coffee brewed, I finally (duh) realized what was happening. I'm slow, but you must realize that without my coffee I couldn't think clearly. That's why it took me so long to figure it out! LOL But we made out okay without that little convenience! But oh, how nice that Chad will once more have the luxury of waking up to freshly brewed coffee all ready to drink. Wink, wink. Of course, Amy likes it too, and I'm sure Chad will let her drink coffee from his new coffee maker as well! LOL Erin also took pictures of each of the children to put in frames for their Daddy's birthday, and I thought she did a super job. Of course, Elisabeth had to take Erin's picture, and she did good too.
Talk about bunny trails. It just took me how many (?) paragraphs to tell you:
1. I cleaned out my closet.
2. We gave Chad a new coffee maker for his birthday.
LOL I've never been known for being brief and succinct, so there you go. Oh yes, one more thing. Tonight for supper we had grilled Mexi-Ranch Burgers (recipe from Beth over at Beth's Bountiful Blessings), and they were awesome! You should head over there and get that recipe and see for yourself! Yum!
Well, my Thursday Thoughts post has turned into a Friday Thoughts post so I better go. Chad, Wesley, Ellie and John are camping out in the backyard tonight (even though it's right chilly down here in south Georgia!) to celebrate being out for Spring Break. It's a good thing Chad is taking off of work tomorrow!! I told you he's a great daddy! The older you get...the harder it is! But he still tries to do the fun things with the younger ones that he always did with the older ones! By the time Alexander is old enough to 'camp out with Daddy', Chad will really have to kick the old 'get up and go' into action! LOL
Well, I probably won't have time to post tomorrow (today!!!), so I hope everyone has a fabulous Friday!
Blessings,
Amy
Happy Birthday to my husband, Chad! As I've posted before, I am so blessed to have such a fantastic husband who loves us and works hard to take care of our family. He's a wonderful daddy as well, and a fine example for our children!
This photo was taken last August.
Below is probably my most favorite photo of Chad when he was younger (along with his Navy picture in dress blues.) When I was doing our 18th Anniversary post, I looked far and wide for this photo and couldn't find it! But a couple of weeks ago as I was going through my cedar chest, I found it! It's our engagement photo from December 1988. It's a really good picture of Chad, but don't you just LOVE my fluffy hair??? Of course, almost everyone wore their hair like this in the 80's, but I can honestly say....thank goodness, that 'style' is no longer in style! LOL
December 1988
Anyway, Happy, Happy, Happy Birthday to the most wonderful husband and daddy in the whole world!
WE LOVE YOU!
Love,
Amy, Erin, Elisabeth, Wesley, Ellie, John, and Alexander
Good morning, everyone! It's a beautiful day and I feel happy! I wonder if being on 'Spring Break' has anything to do with that??!! LOL I have a list a mile long of things I want us to get done while we're out of school this week, but I've probably been a tad bit ambitious. I just hope to get a fraction of it done anyway! We'll see! Some of today's jobs include baking bread and cleaning in the master bedroom! I'm saying it publicly right here....I'm going to attack the 'endless abyss' under my bed! I am! I'm going to do it! Really! And...I'm going to attack my closet as well. I can hardly get anything in there right now. There are many clothes that need to GO!
I'll report back here to keep myself accountable! LOL
Happy Birthday to my Daddy! I won't tell his age, but in another year he'll be in a new decade that starts with a number that means 'complete' or 'perfect' in the Bible! LOL He's a wonderful father, and I thank the Lord for his presence in our lives! I love you, Daddy!
Tomorrow is Chad's birthday (birthdays seem to come in pairs around here), and the children and I always try to have a big celebration! The menu will include lasagna, salad, homemade garlic bread, and chocolate cake! There are usually banners, balloons, and streamers. In the past, Chad has been a trooper and happily worn a construction paper crown for the festivities! LOL We may not spend a lot of money or go out to eat at a fancy restaurant for his birthday...but he's a rich man! Our children love their daddy, and that's the way it should be! Also, I'm excited about the gift we're giving him. I'll have to share that after the fact! LOL
Last night, Chad, Alexander and I went grocery shopping. Yes, with this many kids, I guess that constitutes a date! LOL We seriously needed to restock the larder, and now I feel as though I'm prepared for the next week or two, grocery-wise. Yay! If it was up to me, I'd stay home most of the time. I've turned into a real home-body, and grocery shopping is not on the top of my list of favorite things to do. Thank goodness, however, I do have a husband who doesn't mind stopping by the store on his way home from work to pick up things we need during the week. He jokes that his day wouldn't be complete without going in Harvey's or Piggly Wiggly for milk, diapers, bread, etc.
I've decided to remove the 'Books I've Read' section on my sidebar. I don't know how to do one of those drop-down boxes, and since I updated my reading journal that I keep by my bed, I realized I'll soon have a problem. I haven't been keeping up with my books here, but according to my journal I already have at least 40 books listed (that I remember). I don't want my sidebar to be too cluttered, and before too long that's what would happen. So instead, I'm going to list books read in a post for each month...at the end of the month. Not that I think anyone is chomping at the bit to know what I've read, but it's always nice to find referrals to new authors and good books. Reading about what other people are reading about is how I've
discovered some really great stuff. Brenda at Coffee, Tea, Books and Me always has good recommendations as does Marybeth, Crystal, Kris, and Leigharev at Riverbend Prep among others. And since I have VERY eclectic tastes in reading, maybe there will be something for everyone! LOL
Tonight we will be having country-fried steak, green beans, mashed potatoes, and yeast rolls for supper. And I'm sure Elisabeth will come up with something yummy for dessert! That girl is a veritable baking dynamo. It's hard to watch one's weight around here, which leads me to my next thought....
T-Tapp! I received my Total Workout last week, and I need to get started! Kim Brenneman at Large Family Logistics highly recommended T-Tapp as a great way to get a comprehensive workout in a limited amount of time! I've only done one session, but I can see where that is going to be true. Um...can you say tired muscles?? Also, it's supposed to be good for helping back pain, and lately I've had my share of that. I'm thinking that the 'checks' I 'wrote' when I was younger doing gymnastics, playing softball and basketball, water skiiing, and running track are now being 'cashed'...at the expense of my 'almost' 40 year old body . LOL Plus, I slipped on icy steps and hurt my lower back/hip about 12 years ago. So, I'm hoping these exercises will help! And losing inches and weight won't hurt the cause either! LOL Are y'all tired of hearing how I MUST get off that last 15 pounds before August??!!! I tease my husband by telling him I'm going to look 'good' at 40!!! We shall see!
Well, instead of sitting here typing, I need to be cleaning! So, I better get going! Hope you have a great day!
Yesterday afternoon, as I walked out the back door to welcome home my husband from work (he also picked up the twins from sewing lessons)...I happened to glance up in one of the large pecan trees in the backyard. At first, I thought one of our cats had climbed WAY up on one of the tallest branches, but no! Chad said, "That's not a cat. It's a racoon!" And he was about 40 feet up!
Apparently, this cute little guy made a visit to our cat food bowl during the night for a little snack, and um....didn't notice our cocker spaniel, Lady Belle, when he passed by her spot by the pecan tree! It seems as though she chased him up the tree where he stayed, and stayed, and stayed the rest of that night and ALL DAY yesterday! When the girls moved Lady Belle to a different place, the little coon finally came down last night and ran away! He looks just a tad bit apprehensive, doesn't he? I imagine he'll think twice before making nocturnal visits to our yard again! LOL
It did make for a nice little afternoon diversion, however, and the children enjoyed watching the coon in the tree until they had to come in for supper! Erin took advantage of the situation for a wildlife photography shoot! Thank goodness for zoom lenses...he may look close, but I'm telling you, he was WAY up there! Hmmm...could this count as 'school'??? As in nature study and Photography 101???!!! LOL
We've had opposums and armadillos make 'kitty food' visits before, but this is the first racoon we've noticed. John was hilarious...he was so animated as he talked about the 'skunk' in the tree! Oh well, just another day in the country!
This has been a very busy (but profitable) week for us! On Monday, Artist Twin, Elisabeth, had art lessons, and afterward we stopped at my cousins' U-Pick Strawberry Patch and purchased ten pounds of 'cull' strawberries. Their 'culls' are probably even better than what some of my younger children would pick...and I get a good price to boot! I just love the smell of fresh strawberries, and we've really been enjoying this little 'taste' of spring! I've been eating homemade yogurt with sliced strawberries, and oh, it's been good! Erin (Photographer/Writer Twin) used the opportunity to take some great photos of 'berries and the brother'! LOL
Culls? Yes, but still beautiful...and delicious!
John...The Berry Eatin' Boy
Also, I have a wonderful recipe for Strawberry Cobbler to share. Everyone is familiar with the blueberry or peach or apple variety of cobbler, but strawberries are delightful when used as well! I'll try to post that recipe tomorrow.
On Tuesday afternoon, we had 4-H. Then afterward the twins, Alexander (the baby), and I went on a little shopping trip to find a new dress for Elisabeth to wear to an award ceremony in Atlanta today...more on that in a minute.
On Wednesday, we accompanied my mama to a local nursing home to sing to the residents. When my twins were little and I was still teaching in a classroom, they went with Mama every week to visit and sing at the nursing home. Many of the residents remember them and couldn't believe they are now 15 years old! It's always a blessing to visit the elderly. We may think we are doing it to make them happy...but in fact, we receive the greatest blessing!
After the nursing home, the girls performed a St. Patrick's Day marionette show at the home of some of our dear friends and church members. Sis. 'K' is also their sewing instructor, and the marionettes were made by her very talented mother (and our beloved, special friend/church member) who passed away last year...so it was sort of sentimental...in a good way! Erin and Elisabeth wrote the play, designed and created costumes, backdrops, and props, and worked the marionettes (with a little technical help from Beth). LOL They also did a little 'intermission' activity/contest with a prize for the winner. I think there were 15 children and 7 adults present. We were also treated to delicious 'green themed' refreshments by Sis. 'K' and Beth afterward! The play was called "The King's Clover." Erin and Elisabeth put a lot of work into the show, and it turned out well. They had a great time doing it, and I think everyone enjoyed the 'production'!
Can you see the marionettes on the 'stage' and the 'Irish' countryside backdrop?
Today, Chad, Elisabeth, and Erin left our home before 5:00 am to travel up to Atlanta for an award ceremony at the state capitol. Elisabeth won 2nd place statewide in her age division (Grades 9-12) for the Georgia Department of Agriculture Art Contest 2007. She got to see our governor, Sonny Perdue, and the Ag Commissioner, Tommy Irvin, presented the winners with their medals and monetary prizes. My folks are tired, but it was worth it! I didn't make it to the ceremony because I thought the 4:45 am departure time and a grand total of over 7 hours being enclosed in our van traveling down the interstate might be a bit much for our 10-month-old ds, Alexander...and his mama! LOL That 7 hour figure also includes being stuck in rush hour traffic in downtown Atlanta! Folks...I'm SO GLAD that the biggest 'traffic' problem in our neck of the woods is waiting our turn at the one caution light hanging at the one intersection in our little community!
Tommy Irvin, Elisabeth, and Miss Georgia Agriculture
Elisabeth and Chad
I couldn't get the photo of Elisabeth and Erin together to upload, so I'll try that again later.
The other four children and I had a regular school day, then went to our homeschool group activity day this afternoon. By the time we got back, our weary travelers had returned home. My sister and one of my nephews also came down for a few days while they have intercession break, and they arrived about the same time.
The next couple of days will involve fishing, going out for seafood, shopping, and lots of fun! We'll definitely be busy...but happy! Being with family is always a 'good thing!'
This is the (across the road) scene I'm treated to each time I glance out my large front window. The field filled with the stubble of old cornstalks will soon be prepared for a new crop. This is my cousin's field and cows, and he rotates his crops every two or three years...and I believe it's time for peanuts! The pond is low, but hopefully not for long.
I like to tease my cousin and say that his corn blocks my view! LOL I'm glad I'm a country girl! My heart sings each time I look around me, and I'm thankful the Lord has allowed us to be out in the country and back on the family farm! God is good!
Last evening, we were the 'blessed guests' at the home of our dear friends, Jabin, Beth, and Lillie. They are ALWAYS wonderful hosts, and we had a great time...as usual. Now, I've told you all before about Beth's culinary prowess, and last night was no exception. Here's the lowdown on the menu:
Chicken Tenderloins
Ranch Creamed Potatoes
Peas
Seasoned Green Beans
Lacey Cornbread Cakes
Fruit Salad with a Sweet Dressing (fresh strawberries, kiwi, grapes, bananas)
And...(drumroll, please)...the dessert! Candy Bar Cake with Ice Cream!!!! You absolutely MUST go over to Beth's blog (RIGHT NOW) and get this recipe!! It was that awesome-ly delicious, and you WILL NOT be disappointed! I called her and told her that she HAD to get it posted so I could link to it! LOL Now, there's an accomodating friend for sure!
Thank you again, dear friends, for having us over! It was a blessed time of food and fellowship, and indeed...a delightful (and delicious) time was had by all!
Thanks to all who have expressed concern about our welfare after the severe weather passed through Alabama and Georgia last night. We are all fine and well, but we did lay awake much of the night listening to the swirling, howling winds and doing a lot of praying. It was quite frightening a couple of times! However, some of our dear church members did experience some terrible damage to their property. The barn and several outbuildings were demolished, vehicles and farm equipment were messed up, and their home has broken windows and a leaking roof! Many power lines were also down. At this point, we don't know the extent of the damage, but thank the Lord they are safe!
I was so sad to hear about the deaths caused by the tornadoes! My husband once pastored a church in Ozark, Alabama, and we would do some shopping in Enterprise from time to time. We have many dear friends who live in the area!
I have no idea how the parents and family members of the deceased feel, but I can imagine. They are in my prayers!
This morning my husband called and said he was going to come home for lunch today. Now, occasionally he does this, but it's not the general rule as he works ten miles from home during the week. But I also knew he needed to get one of his locators for an after-work job, so I didn't really think that much about it. So, I was very surprised when he came walking in the door with these:
Aren't they beautiful? I have a very sweet and thoughtful husband! But you know what? He's also sweet and thoughtful the other 364 days of the year as well. Case in point--My Valentine held a cool cloth on my forehead as I was in the throes of a horrendous stomach virus all of Monday night and part of Tuesday. He brought me glasses of Gatorade so I wouldn't get dehydrated. He tended to the baby (who apparently thought he might miss the action by staying asleep) at 1:00 in the morning when all I could do was run to the bathroom. He stayed home from work on Tuesday to tend to me, the children, the meals, and the house when I couldn't even get up from the bed or function. He cleaned and disinfected the bathrooms with Lysol, and even cleaned the inside of the refrigerator for me. Diapers, bathrooms, and refrigerators!!! Isn't it funny how our definition of 'love' changes over the years??!!
So even though I enjoy Valentine's Day and all that comes with it, especially beautiful roses and chocolate, I'm also glad that my Valentine loves me...and shows me that love in a million little ways, every single day of the year!!
It's inevitable in a family this size! When one or more of the children get sick with some sort of bug, I might as well get prepared...the rest of them will probably get it too. It might be a couple of days, or it might be a week or so, but it usually WILL happen. This time was no exception. Artist Twin, 10 yo ds, and 3yo ds are now experiencing flu-like symptoms with temperature.
And another thing, what goes around usually comes around...again! The baby is once again running a temperature--so I'm going to keep a close eye on him and his ears! We've done a lot of rocking this morning, but no school. I know when to go to Plan B...and today we might even get to Plan C or D. I may let 6yo dd do some oral reading and a little handwriting since she's at loose ends and feels fine, but that will probably be it for school. Hmmm, today might be a good day for a read-aloud afternoon or a book on tape.
Today's post is going to be a mish-mash of this and that, so here goes:
Don't forget to check out Marybeth's devotional at Faith Lifts...it's called 'God Knows the Big Picture. As usual, I'm reminded of God's faithfulness.
On Tuesday, my mama accompanied me and three of the children down to Valdosta to keep 6yo dd's pediatric dental appointment. Of course, we had to do a little shopping beforehand. LOL I finally found the sand and water table I wanted for 3yo ds at Toys R Us. It was for his birthday, and it has a castle on top. He loves it. We also hit TJ Maxx, Books-A-Million, Big Lots, and a couple of thrift stores. At Goodwill, we found a Chris Madden book along with other odds and ends. I will talk more about that book in another post. We also found a thrift store supported by a Crisis Pregnancy Center near the college. The prices were great, and I found quite a few goodies including a little 'Shabby Chic' looking white wrought iron holder of some kind. It may be designed to use as a small plant holder, but I put it on my dresser to contain my everyday jewelry and other odds and ends. I think it would also make a neat mail holder.
On Wednesday, my husband and I (and the baby) finally went out for our anniversary supper. We had a great time, and then we hit K-Mart for a little bit of shopping...y'all, with six children this is most definitely a date! LOL I really wanted to get some of the Martha Stewart 'Day of the Week' kitchen towels. And yes, I did find them. And yes, I love 'em! We also bought a new cordless telephone. The last one we had finally died after 15 years. Come to think of it, we bought that one on our 3rd anniversary shopping trip! LOL Speaking of Martha Stewart, I priced her new homekeeping book at Books-A-Million on Tuesday, but I just couldn't part with the $30 some odd dollars...and that was with a 30% discount. But I'm happy to report that I found it on Ebay last night (the 'Buy it Now' option) for $19.00...so Happy Anniversary to me...again! LOL
Yesterday, I made my first batch of homemade yogurt with my new Yogourmet yogurt maker. It turned out great, and several of the children have enjoyed a helping of yogurt with blueberries. Yum! I found my Yogourment on Ebay for $20.00 in brand new condition. Now I plan on getting the extra storage canister when I can.
This morning, we had a tragedy. John, our 3yo ds, had received an algae eater fish from his sisters. He is fascinated by sharks, and the girls thought the algae eater looked like a little shark. John named him 'Cookie'! LOL Alas, Cookie was belly-up in the fish tank this morning...after only four days! John stoically flushed Cookie down the toilet and bid farewell. Instead of the 'Big Fish Tank in the Sky', Cookie was sent to the 'Great Septic Tank in the Ground'! I guess we'll be investing in another Cookie before long...but he might be a different 'brand' of Cookie...one a little bit hardier!
Today is mostly going to be spent rocking and tending to my sick 'people'...and of course, doing laundry. That's a given! I also hope to bake a Chocolate Pound Cake Surprise later. If I do, I'll post a picture and the recipe.
Well, until later that's the scoop of the happenings on the home front.
Hi everyone,
I just wanted to give an update on Drew's condition. I updated Mama's blog and here is basically the same information:
My mama called last night around 10:30 pm EST, and she said that Drew was awake and asking where his clothes were. Then he wanted something to eat!! LOL Of course, they just gave him ice. And the CT scan didn't show anything, so they did a spinal tap as the next step. We still don't know the results of that. So that was last night's report.
She also called just a little while ago (about 8:00 am EST) with a VERY encouraging report! She said that the nurses gave Drew Gatorade through the night because he was so hungry and thirsty. This morning, he said he REALLY wanted a double cheeseburger and Reese's Cups! LOL Now, that's a very good sign, and I hope it won't be too long before he gets his wish! The neurologists will be coming in later this morning. I will update as soon as I know anything else. And at this point, he is still in ICU at Egleston.
Thank you all so much for your concern, prayers, and encouraging comments! Our whole family appreciates your kindness!
I would like to request your prayers for my 12 yo nephew, Drew. We received a call this morning saying that he'd had a seizure at school, lost consciousness, and had been taken to the local hospital. He's had four more seizures since then, one of them a grand mal. He still hasn't come out of it, and they are airlifting him by helicoptor to Egleston Children's Hospital near Atlanta (Decatur), some 60 miles away from where they live. My sister is with him, and a friend is driving my BIL and other nephew up to Decatur. They are treating Drew for meningitis as a precaution, but his blood sugar is also extremely low. My BIL is a diabetic, so there could be a connection. But as of right now, they really don't know what is wrong. My mama and daddy are on their way, so please also uphold them in prayer for safe travel. It's the 'not knowing' that is so hard!
Drew is a loving, happy child who is a joy to be around. We love him so much. Please remember him!
Well, due to Baby's continued sickness, and now the same for 6yo dd, we are not at church with the rest of the family. Baby and I have rocked and cuddled, and rocked and cuddled for several days now. I do have to admit that I'm not feeling too well either...sore throat and lots of congestion. But of course, we are all in each other's faces all day long. Hopefully, this is just a passing cold...at least I hope so. I'm a bit worried about Baby's ears, but I will keep a watch on that!
I was supposed to take 6yo dd down to Valdosta tomorrow to the pediatric dentist, but I will have to call in the morning to reschedule that cleaning appointment. Oh well, with this many kids life must be flexible! LOL We are also supposed to head up to Rock Eagle 4-H Center near Monticello (GA) next weekend for Senior DPA. The twins have worked so hard on their presentations...so I hope all of us 'sickies' get well and everyone else stays well! My sister and her family live within twenty-five minutes of Rock Eagle, so it's always a good reason for an overnight visit with them as well! We don't get up there near as much as we would like to!
I wanted to mention something else too. If you haven't visited Kris's Cozy Cottage yet, you should. She has a wealth of information - financial, frugal living, health, homemaking, home organization, recipes and more! It's a great resource, and I've barely scratched the surface yet. She decided to take on this project as a way of recording ideas and resources for her daughter...definitely a worthy endeavor. So head on over and check it out! I assure you...you'll be motivated to work on some of these areas in your own life! I know I have!
Happy New Year everyone! Since my husband has been recovering from surgery, I haven't posted anything except for Artist Twin's comic. But I've had many thoughts for future posts bouncing around in my head...especially on my long walks during the last couple of days. Um...did anyone catch that? You know, my L-O-N-G walks during the last couple of days? Yes, as usual, I'm in the league with just about every other person in the universe who chooses January 1st to 'get serious' ...again...about weight loss and general overall fitness! LOL But to be perfectly honest, I really do enjoy my daily walks. But finding the time to squeeze in exercise is most often the problem.
I'm also into my "by jiggity, I'm going to get my life and house in order!" stage at the present. Motivation is high, and I'm striking while the iron is hot...before I start fading. So far, I've done some decluttering and organizing, and it's a good feeling. I want to get a lot done before we start back to school next Monday. I'd planned on starting back today, but with dh still in pain and moving slow (and obviously not back at work)...I figured we better wait.
Now, weight loss and organizational goals are wonderful, but I know that being consistent in my Quiet Time with the Lord is much more important than anything else. As the saying goes ~You wouldn't start a concert without first tuning the instruments! By the same token, starting the day with prayer and Bible reading is 'instrumental' in handling whatever comes our way! Below are some thoughts that I wrote for our homeschool group newsletter for January:
2007 is here, and we have a full year ahead of us that is free of mistakes and full of potential! Let’s see…in short, that means that a non-leap year has roughly:
Wow! When you break it down like that, it seems like a very long time. But before you can turn around, it will be 2008! Now, I ask you…how will you invest your time? I pray that I will continually seek God’s will for my daily plans and needs, and that I will be a good steward of these upcoming days…days that can never be reclaimed once they are past! What are my priorities? How can I best use my time and energy? Is the Lord pleased with my decisions?
At the beginning of each year, it seems as though I always do a self-evaluation…and each year I find myself lacking in so many areas! I start out with the best intentions, but somewhere along the way I sort of slow down on some things and even fizzle out completely on others. I try to be consistent in my prayer life and Bible reading, but there are days when…you fill in the blank. But how can I afford not to make those my priorities even on days when I am the busiest?? Claiming that I am too busy to pray or read the Scriptures is like saying that I am too busy driving to stop and get gas! Sounds silly, doesn’t it? So I pray that I will remember my priorities and seek God’s will for each and every decision…He cares about us….even the little things!
I plan on taking my own advice! LOL And I would like to share something else. Mrs. Wilt at The Sparrow's Nest shared a Bible reading plan link last year called "Read Through the Bible Program for Shirkers and Slackers." It assigned each week's reading according to the various divisions of the Bible. Unfortunately, the site for that plan is apparently down...I keep getting an 'error' message. But I did find another site that has a similar plan that divides the daily reading into: Sunday-Epistles, Monday-The Law, Tuesday-History, Wednesday-Psalms, Thursday-Poetry, Friday-Prophecy, and Saturday-Gospels. So far, I'm really enjoying this format! I've always read straight through the Bible, and I admit that sometimes I get bogged down in 'The Law' and find myself having to persevere. But with this plan, I can read those difficult sections in bite-sized pieces interspersed with other readings during the course of the week.
Another thing I try to do each day is read the chapter in Proverbs that corresponds to the date of the month. No matter how many times I've gone through this book, I always find many new things to ponder! And if for some reason I miss my scheduled daily reading in other chapters of the Bible, at least I've had my little dose of wisdom! LOL
May the Lord bless you all richly in 2007, and may your upcoming days be full of joy and laughter!
I can't believe it's been a whole week since posting, but a lot has been going on...obviously! LOL We had all the excitement of Christmas the first part of the week, and it really was wonderful. All the children were thrilled with their gifts, and so were Mama and Daddy! Highlights included (these are the 'big' main gifts each one received): 6yo dd received an Ashton Drake newborn named Lauren (wow, it looks and even smells real!); 15yo twin dd (firstborn) received a Kodak Z710 digital camera with 7mp and 10x zoom; other 15yo twin dd received all sorts of cd's, dvd's, books, and instructional stuff from Ann Kullberg (famed colored pencil artist); 9 yo ds received electronic snap kit to build over 300 projects (circuit board stuff)...I'm lost, but he and his daddy love it...he's our 'hands-on/figure-it-out child'...he also got a back-stop for football and baseball throwing; 2yo ds got a small basketball goal (just his size) among other things; 8mo ds got one of those Step2 cars with steering wheel that he sits in while someone pushes behind with the handle...he'll also get a portrait album. Daddy got a new La-Z-Boy recliner...very comfy! The girls put a sign on the chair that said "Working Boy" recliner...they said that their daddy is not lazy...no way...no how! LOL They worked really hard and saved to get that chair for him...and with their next-door grandparent's help...they managed the BIG surprise! I also got him a one year subscription to Georgia Backroads Magazine...we love Georgia history (or any other history), and this publication is great...I was also a little selfish when I subscribed...I think it might be a good potential market for my writing! LOL I got the neatest thing...a big throw featuring a giant picture of all six children! I love it! I also received a nice digital postal scale that I wanted to measure food portions (you know, for losing weight! LOL) and an electric wrap-up blanket for those chilly mornings! These gifts don't even begin to include all the wonderful things we got from other family members and friends! Everyone was very generous, and we are so grateful! Now, beginning on January 11th we will start 'birthday season' around here...one in January, one in February, one in March, one in April, and two in June! Daddy is also in April, and I'm in August...but I don't want to talk about that since I'll be 40!
Then after Christmas was done...Husband had hernia repair surgery yesterday! He's pretty sore and feeling sick...so if you have a mind to, please remember him in your prayers! He was born with a hernia in the same place, and had surgery when he was six months old. That doctor must've done a pretty good job, because it held for over 42 years! LOL The surgeon yesterday said he had a good bit of scar tissue from that first surgery, so it was a little harder to get in...and he may be even more sore for that reason! I'm sure the new recliner will come in handy for 'recuperation' time! The surgery was out-patient, but we were at the hospital for 9.5 hours (from 6 am until after 3:30 pm)! I took one of the twins and the baby...and the baby did excellent for being there that long! And the staff, doctors, and nurses were super! We are blessed to live near such an outstanding medical facility! And of course, after having six babies, many trips to the ER, two surgeries for Husband, several procedures for me (also a tonsillectomy at 17), maybe they should name a wing in our honor...I'm sure we've helped pay for it! LOL I think we've also helped pay for our OB/Gyn's nice office too!
New Year's will probably be quiet around here since we have a 'patient' in the house, but that's okay...we're ready to slow done a bit. Right now, Husband and the children are watching one of the Daniel Boone episodes from Season1...9yo ds received this as one of his gifts from his next-door grandparents...they're enjoying this immensely! I'm about to fix a big brunch of oatmeal muffins, Lil' Smokie sausages, and eggs. I let everyone sleep late today after yesterday's tiring events. Later, I will begin working on the homeschool group newsletter for January so I can get them mailed out tomorrow, and of course, I must do laundry...it's one of the 'constants' in my life...and none got done yesterday! And this afternoon, I plan on sitting down and just looking through my new 2007 Writer's Market Guide that I received as a gift from my parents (yes, I did shop for myself LOL). I'm looking forward to doing that during Quiet Time/Baby's naptime! I also have a couple of queries I plan on working on ASAP!
Well, brunch must be cooked...so I'll close! Hopefully, I will post again later about some other thoughts that are bouncing around in this brain 'o mine. Oh, don't forget Marybeth's devotion over at FaithLifts today! I haven't made it over there yet, but I'm sure it's great...as usual! It's something I really look forward to reading each week!
Is that Handel's Messiah I hear??? Hallejuah! Hallejuah! I can finally log in and make new entries on my blog! I have been trying for the last week and a half to get back on here, and nothing seemed to work! But thanks to Jodi, the HSB blog administrator who gave new instructions to try a little while ago, I'm back on! All I had to do was delete the cookie on my computer for HSB, and it worked!!! So, now I'm just going to chatter and ramble for a bit to catch up somewhat.
Now, truthfully, if I tried to fill you in on everything I've done since HSB first went down for maintenance, you'd be bored silly...so I'll just hit the highlights! We finished up school for Christmas holidays on the 8th...and I we need it! LOL Then on the 9th, the girls and I helped with a bake sale for our dear friends who lost their home by fire on Thanksgiving. We did a lot of baking on that Friday, then helped with the sale on Saturday. We were all thrilled with the success of the sale and the money raised. I'm so thankful to live in area where people are so generous and giving and look out for one another! What a blessing!
On Saturday night (9th), we had our quarterly Family Night Homeschool Supper with lots of great food and fellowship. Then on the 14th, we had our annual Moms' Homeschool Christmas Supper. Beth of Beth's Bountiful Blessings and another dear friend, Angelica, hosted. They did a spectacular job...I am still amazed at the food and how wonderful everything was. Beth posted about it here We always enjoy getting together, and believe me, this year was no exception. There were even a few unexpected surprises! LOL And we all came away with awesome gift baskets! Thank you, Beth and Angelica!
Last Friday, the twins (remember, we don't really call them that in real life...just here for clarification), and the baby and I headed down to Valdosta for an afternoon and evening of Christmas shopping. I told my husband that it was like going off with a couple of my best friends. They are really a lot of fun to go off with, and I do enjoy their company! Everyone has always said, "Just wait until they get to be teenagers!" Well, now they are teenagers, and they are a joy. We are so blessed! I don't know what we'd do without them! We got a lot done, but I'm still not finished! So, tomorrow afternoon my husband, the baby, and I will head out for a time of shopping and eating out, of course!
Yesterday was a day filled with baking, baking, baking, and candy making. Each year I make large batches of cookies and candy to send with my husband to work to put out in the various break rooms and offices. Everyone always enjoys the treats, and I honestly do enjoy making all the goodies. And it's the only time of year I make Martha Washington Candy...one of my absolute favorites! So I guess I'm looking out for my family's sweet 'teeth' as well! This year I did Peanut Butter Blossoms (recipe from Kelli's blog-No Place Like Home), Martha Washington Candy, Easy Toffee Candy (from Kim C's blog-Life in A Shoe), and my daughter did a large batch of Cowboy Cookies for me. I finally finished up the toffee at about 12:30 am this morning, then got up around 7:00 am to divide everything into the different containers. I think I need another cup of coffee...I'm tired! Or maybe I need a nap! But I still need to help the girls finish up their portfolios for 4-H DPA and get them to the Extension Office before they close today...so I guess a nap is out! Plus, I have a few straggling Christmas cards that I need to address and mail! Oh well, better late than never! And have I ever mentioned laundry!!?? It's in there just waiting for me! ~Sigh~
We will go to my husband's hometown on Sunday afternoon after church to have our Christmas celebration with his family, then drive back home that evening. We always try to be at our own home for Christmas Day. The children will get up on Christmas morning and open their gifts, then we will probably have a brunch of homemade pecan cinnamon rolls, eggs, and sausage, and have our big meal that night. Then, my sister and her family will come down the day after Christmas to celebrate with my side of the family. When everyone else is finished with Christmas fun...we're just getting started! LOL
Well, I have a fussy baby that needs attending to...so I'll pry myself from the keyboard. Could it be that I have been in withdrawal from blogging??? In any case, I've probably gotten tons more done than usual over the last 10 days! Hmmm! LOL
It's hard to believe that tomorrow is Thanksgiving! We'll get up and drive two hours to spend time with my husband's family for Thanksgiving lunch. Then we'll head back here in time for Thanksgiving supper with my family. For years, my mama and daddy have hosted a big supper for his side of the family, complete with all the trimmings!
Now, I realize that all families have their own stories and traditions, but we have some that I imagine are unique only to us. For example, on Thanksgiving evening eighteen years ago, we were getting ready to have the blessing and dig into all the yummy food. I think my daddy asked if anyone had anything they'd like to say. My sister spoke up and said, "This time next year, there'll be one more little mouth to feed!" What a way to introduce the first grandchild-to-be! Talk about excitement! Now that "little mouth to feed" is a big, handsome, seventeen-year-old Senior in high school who is planning on becoming a dentist! Oh, how the time does fly.
Since that Thanksgiving, someone ALWAYS jokingly has to ask, "Does anyone have anything they need to share?" Of course, since we have six children, they always seem to look in our direction when they ask!!! LOL
Another tradition has to do with the dressing. My mama makes THE best dressing in the world. It's not too dry, and she uses lots of water chesnuts. But one year, she took the pan of dressing out of the oven and accidentally set it on a hot eye of the stove. Kaboom! The dish exploded and dressing went everywhere! Now, every single year someone also ALWAYS has to ask, "Remember when the dressing blew up?" Like anyone has a chance to forget!
But there's another reason I include the dressing. My sister and I always eat dressing for breakfast on the morning after Thanksgiving. It's a tradition, and oh, so good! My mouth waters just thinking about it. I don't make dressing very often myself, so I do enjoy it at this time of year... a lot!
Now, back to having any news...actually I do have something I would like to say..."Mam, make plenty of dressing, and don't forget to use lots and lots of water chesnuts!!!"
Happy Thanksgiving to all...and Lord willing, I'll be back on Monday!
I'm a very happily married pastor's wife, former schoolteacher-turned-homeschool mom of six wonderful blessings, and freelance writer--and we live in the great state of Georgia! I'm a southern girl through and through...but most importantly, I'm a child of the King! We have just finished up our twelfth year of homeschooling, and our two oldest have now graduated! This is my place to record thoughts about homemaking, Classical-Charlotte Mason based homeschooling, writing around the fringes of family life, and more...so welcome to my little corner of the world!
to do a little shopping and get a bite to eat. We had a good day!
After that, I put two and two together...and called the doctor. My husband had already planned on taking a 'vacation day' that day to catch up on some things around the house, so he was home and had things under control.
So, I better get going! Hope you have a great day!
Culls? Yes, but still beautiful...and delicious!
John...The Berry Eatin' Boy
Can you see the marionettes on the 'stage' and the 'Irish' countryside backdrop?
Tommy Irvin, Elisabeth, and Miss Georgia Agriculture
Elisabeth and Chad
