I spent a year not attending public gatherings. No grocery stores, no large parties, no groups unless I knew everyone there. My immune system was so compromised by the chemotherapy that getting an infection could be life threatening, so I stayed at home. And I actually survived and thrived.
In the Fall when my immune system was better, the Oncologist suggested that I could go out into society so I attended two volleyball games in Texas, where I promptly got a cold. But it was not life threatening but merely a cold. In Mississippi, I started to enjoy going to the grocery store. Linda, Christina's Mother and a committed Christian lady, invited me to join her at a group called Bible Study Fellowship. I did not really want to go, in part because I was apprehensive about getting involved with a group of people but I decided that I needed to make the break away from my house so I began attending.
The group is a national organization for women who study from a manual each week. The group is large, about 200. They meet for a song and a prayer, then break into small groups for discussion. Next the large group gets together for a lecture. From beginning to end is 2 hours. At first I was using the group to get me out of my little niche but now I am beginning to like my little group, which is very southern. One of the ladies names is Lady Jane. And of our group of 14, 7 ladies are black. Of course, I am not here very much but they tolerate my absences. In addition to studying the Bible, I am also studying a slice of life in the South which I enjoy. Much to my surprise, Bible Study Fellowship has turned out to be good for me. My Mother would be pleased.
Saturday, April 30, 2016
Friday, April 29, 2016
April 29, 2016. Madison, Mississippi. Garden Art.
As you walk towards our house on the walkway, off to the right is an area that seems to serve no purpose. The space is 11x11, enclosed by a one foot brick wall with large paving stones on the ground. It sets directly in front of the dining room. The former owner had a small table and two chairs in this little space but it was plain to see that no one ever sat there. Ken and I have been discussing our options and finally settled on a fountain. A piece of sculpture was too expensive but fountains were affordable.
While we looked for deck furniture, we also looked at fountains but nothing seemed interesting. Ken found a place in Crystal Springs that advertised 500 fountains so today, having nothing else to do, we drove down to look at our options. It was the most astonishing place. First we were forced to turn on our GPS in order to find the place, which is called Four Seasons Garden Art. Crystal Springs is a small town so we thought we could drive to the town and find the garden art store, but we were wrong. The Four Seasons was on a country road with poor signs but they had acres of garden art and 500 fountains, all running. We had a blast. One was better than the last but eventually we asked for prices.
Next time you visit us at our Mississippi home you will see a large fountain in the center of a square on the right of the house. It will fill the space as well as sound beautiful. Next week they will set the slab and the week after will deliver and install our fountain. We looked at so many beautiful fountains that when they install the one we bought, I will not remember except I know it is nice. Fancy too. Today we did good work at the Four Seasons Garden Art.
While we looked for deck furniture, we also looked at fountains but nothing seemed interesting. Ken found a place in Crystal Springs that advertised 500 fountains so today, having nothing else to do, we drove down to look at our options. It was the most astonishing place. First we were forced to turn on our GPS in order to find the place, which is called Four Seasons Garden Art. Crystal Springs is a small town so we thought we could drive to the town and find the garden art store, but we were wrong. The Four Seasons was on a country road with poor signs but they had acres of garden art and 500 fountains, all running. We had a blast. One was better than the last but eventually we asked for prices.
Next time you visit us at our Mississippi home you will see a large fountain in the center of a square on the right of the house. It will fill the space as well as sound beautiful. Next week they will set the slab and the week after will deliver and install our fountain. We looked at so many beautiful fountains that when they install the one we bought, I will not remember except I know it is nice. Fancy too. Today we did good work at the Four Seasons Garden Art.
Thursday, April 28, 2016
April 28, 2016. Madison, Mississippi. Our Deck.
Now we have a big box to be used to store the cushions. People in Mississippi leave the cushions outside when it rains. The fabric is designed to repel water but after it has rained, you must allow the cushions to dry before sitting on them or else you will get a damp seat. Ken does not like that system so he ordered a big box, which required assembling. The directions stated that assembling the box required two competent adults. Well we just laughed because we certainly did not qualify. But Ken put it together all by himself.
This evening the temperature outside was 78 degrees. Ken and I sat on the deck in our comfortable chairs in front of our table with flames coming from the colored stones. Anyone looking at us would think we were daft. But we were happy as clams. Our deck is complete.
This evening the temperature outside was 78 degrees. Ken and I sat on the deck in our comfortable chairs in front of our table with flames coming from the colored stones. Anyone looking at us would think we were daft. But we were happy as clams. Our deck is complete.
Wednesday, April 27, 2016
April 27, 2016. Madison, Mississippi. Catfish Fry.
We, along with the other good folks in Roses Bluff, were invited to a catfish Fry at the home at 505, just two doors over from us. Their home is lovely and each time I walk I admire their house and their backyard, which slopes gently to the water with various decks and sitting areas along the way. The shore line curves right there so I can see a bit of their back. I had never met the owners until two weeks ago when we met the wife out front with their little dog. As you would expect, she was very pleasant and friendly but was startled to realize that we had moved into our home one year ago and she had not met us.
Once a year, they have a golf tournament and fish fry for their employees and this year, they invited Roses Bluff people too. The caterer was The Cock of the Walk, a restaurant on the reservoir. They bring a truck and do all the cooking outside. I will remember that for the future. We got to talk with every neighbors we had known plus a few more besides. Their backyard is wonderful for entertaining with a wide balcony across the full house at the back at least 12 feet deep. We did not go to the water but there are sitting areas all the way down. The place was crowded but not impossible.
These homes were built 20 to 25 years ago and many people are original owners. Tonight, I met many ladies trying to look young with lots of facial enhancements and plenty of makeup. Like us, many of them spend time in other places of the country so are often away. When we first moved here and I went for walks, I would return to tell Ken that no one actually lives here. Tonight I learned that I was wrong and they do live here and are very pleasant but are often away, just like us.
Great fish fry. Good food and nice people, and we got home in time to watch the Nashville Predators on TV playing game 7 of round one.
Once a year, they have a golf tournament and fish fry for their employees and this year, they invited Roses Bluff people too. The caterer was The Cock of the Walk, a restaurant on the reservoir. They bring a truck and do all the cooking outside. I will remember that for the future. We got to talk with every neighbors we had known plus a few more besides. Their backyard is wonderful for entertaining with a wide balcony across the full house at the back at least 12 feet deep. We did not go to the water but there are sitting areas all the way down. The place was crowded but not impossible.
These homes were built 20 to 25 years ago and many people are original owners. Tonight, I met many ladies trying to look young with lots of facial enhancements and plenty of makeup. Like us, many of them spend time in other places of the country so are often away. When we first moved here and I went for walks, I would return to tell Ken that no one actually lives here. Tonight I learned that I was wrong and they do live here and are very pleasant but are often away, just like us.
Great fish fry. Good food and nice people, and we got home in time to watch the Nashville Predators on TV playing game 7 of round one.
Tuesday, April 26, 2016
April 26, 2016. Madison, Mississippi. Valet Parking.
The Cancer Center at the University of Mississippi has excellent facilities. And it is big. Everything you might need for treatment, care and testing is all together so it is easy for both patients and physicians. And there is ample free parking. Every time I enter the building, a thin man with a shirt that says VALET greets you at the door with a friendly smile and jolly hello. He has a severe limp so I suspect he is missing a limb but he is on duty, ready to park your car if you are too weak to walk.
During the day, he also visits people around the first floor to chat. It must be boring for him all by himself at the front waiting for someone to ask him to park their car. I have seen him visiting with the receptionists at the Pet scan unit and at the main admission desk. Today he stopped to chat with the nurses who take vital signs and five minutes later he was visiting the ladies who draw blood. Everyone seemed pleased to chat with him as he is a friendly fellow.
The only problem is that while he is visiting, he is not parking your car. Once when it was raining hard and I was weak and feeble, I decided to have him park my car but he was no where to be found, so I did it myself. As I was leaving, I asked him about his absence. He told me that if he is not there, I should just park my car in front and give my keys to the front desk. "Everyone knows the system," says he. Except not me. His greeting is always so cheery and welcoming but I wish he would stay at his place. Why have a person park your car if he is not there when you need him? I often wonder how many cars he parks in a day. People coming into a cancer center are anxious so his demeanor is helpful and knowing that he parks cars makes you feel good too The VALET on his shirt is large so I suspect he is helpful to patients even if he never valet parks any cars. In the whole scheme of things at the cancer center, he is a plus and I should not be a grump. His greetings and farewells makes you think you are leaving a good friend. I should be grateful!!
During the day, he also visits people around the first floor to chat. It must be boring for him all by himself at the front waiting for someone to ask him to park their car. I have seen him visiting with the receptionists at the Pet scan unit and at the main admission desk. Today he stopped to chat with the nurses who take vital signs and five minutes later he was visiting the ladies who draw blood. Everyone seemed pleased to chat with him as he is a friendly fellow.
The only problem is that while he is visiting, he is not parking your car. Once when it was raining hard and I was weak and feeble, I decided to have him park my car but he was no where to be found, so I did it myself. As I was leaving, I asked him about his absence. He told me that if he is not there, I should just park my car in front and give my keys to the front desk. "Everyone knows the system," says he. Except not me. His greeting is always so cheery and welcoming but I wish he would stay at his place. Why have a person park your car if he is not there when you need him? I often wonder how many cars he parks in a day. People coming into a cancer center are anxious so his demeanor is helpful and knowing that he parks cars makes you feel good too The VALET on his shirt is large so I suspect he is helpful to patients even if he never valet parks any cars. In the whole scheme of things at the cancer center, he is a plus and I should not be a grump. His greetings and farewells makes you think you are leaving a good friend. I should be grateful!!
Monday, April 25, 2016
April 25, 2016. Madison, Mississippi. More Progress.
I think that all the posts in the dock have been installed. Ken went down to check yesterday and only one remained to be put in. This evening early, they worked for four hours, so I think the posts are complete. Compared to the installation of the posts, the rest will be a piece of cake. Whooppee. Soon the dock will be finished.
On Thursday, a tile man will repair the broken tile in the bathroom. When the big window was being installed, they put it in from inside as the window weighed 500 pounds and they were working three stories high. The leg of the scaffolding broke one of the tiles so the company who did the window work is having a tile person remove a tile from under the counter and replace the damaged tile. We have been here exactly one month which is how long we have taken organizing the work. But it is happening on Thursday.
As soon as the dock is finished, the light man will install the lights in the back yard. The front looks great and now we can actually see when entering the house at night. Soon our walk down to the dock will be lighted. We hope it all is complete before we leave for Texas in early June. Time does fly by.
When everything is done, we will have a celebration and the children can fish in the evening. Ken has purchased life jackets for just that event. We will invite our friends and their children to enjoy our backyard. Progress indeed.
On Thursday, a tile man will repair the broken tile in the bathroom. When the big window was being installed, they put it in from inside as the window weighed 500 pounds and they were working three stories high. The leg of the scaffolding broke one of the tiles so the company who did the window work is having a tile person remove a tile from under the counter and replace the damaged tile. We have been here exactly one month which is how long we have taken organizing the work. But it is happening on Thursday.
As soon as the dock is finished, the light man will install the lights in the back yard. The front looks great and now we can actually see when entering the house at night. Soon our walk down to the dock will be lighted. We hope it all is complete before we leave for Texas in early June. Time does fly by.
When everything is done, we will have a celebration and the children can fish in the evening. Ken has purchased life jackets for just that event. We will invite our friends and their children to enjoy our backyard. Progress indeed.
Sunday, April 24, 2016
April 24, 2016. Madison, Mississippi. Our Health.
Our custom is to talk about what we are able to do and pay no attention to what does not work. We certainly never talk about what is the matter with us, but I receive notes and e mails complimenting us on our good health. I just laugh and think that they should see us in action. We are not complaining about our present abilities but neither of us have far from normal health.
For Ken, Parkinson's Disease has left him with poor balance. He uses the walker 100% of the time, both inside and outside the house. The medicine for Parkinson's allows him to function. His left shoulder is not working and as he is left handed, this is a problem. He can not raise his left shoulder at all. He also has a terrible cough. Fatigue is an issue so he has many rests a day. His head work as well as ever except if he is tired but he gets all his work done each day doing the accounts and puttering around the house. He prefers to stay home.
I thought that when my chemotherapy ended I would feel much better but it turns out that Letrozole has side effects too which include fatigue and aching bones. My neuropothy is extensive and does not seem to be going away. I have it all over my body so I have to be careful with hot dishes with my hands. I lurch along when I walk but after I get walking at a decent speed, I can look almost normal. My legs ache all the time but for some reason, neuropothy pain is worse at night. Basically, walking for me is similar to walking on a stump. My eyes, for some reason that no one seems to knows why, do not accommodate for changes in light, so when I go into a restaurant from outside, I go basically blind and quickly hold the arm of whomever I am with. If we are alone I ask a waitress to lend me their arm. I am much better than I was a year ago. I do all the shopping and handle domestic tasks. And social events cause me no stress. I have a good amount of energy.
Both Ken and I are walking and talking which is our standard for success. We are both pleased to be able to enjoy our lives and we never complain. Once a year, I will make a report on our health, not as a complaint but as information about our present status. And here we go.
For Ken, Parkinson's Disease has left him with poor balance. He uses the walker 100% of the time, both inside and outside the house. The medicine for Parkinson's allows him to function. His left shoulder is not working and as he is left handed, this is a problem. He can not raise his left shoulder at all. He also has a terrible cough. Fatigue is an issue so he has many rests a day. His head work as well as ever except if he is tired but he gets all his work done each day doing the accounts and puttering around the house. He prefers to stay home.
I thought that when my chemotherapy ended I would feel much better but it turns out that Letrozole has side effects too which include fatigue and aching bones. My neuropothy is extensive and does not seem to be going away. I have it all over my body so I have to be careful with hot dishes with my hands. I lurch along when I walk but after I get walking at a decent speed, I can look almost normal. My legs ache all the time but for some reason, neuropothy pain is worse at night. Basically, walking for me is similar to walking on a stump. My eyes, for some reason that no one seems to knows why, do not accommodate for changes in light, so when I go into a restaurant from outside, I go basically blind and quickly hold the arm of whomever I am with. If we are alone I ask a waitress to lend me their arm. I am much better than I was a year ago. I do all the shopping and handle domestic tasks. And social events cause me no stress. I have a good amount of energy.
Both Ken and I are walking and talking which is our standard for success. We are both pleased to be able to enjoy our lives and we never complain. Once a year, I will make a report on our health, not as a complaint but as information about our present status. And here we go.
Saturday, April 23, 2016
April 23, 2016. Madison, Mississippi. The Jungle Book.
The Performing Arts Department of Jackson Prep. puts on excellent programs. This afternoon was another fine example. Mary Frances was a wolf, and a good one too. Her lines could be heard clearly and distinctly. And she almost looked like a wolf. My Mother would have been proud to see her perform. I have read The Jungle Book a long time ago and I suspect there has been some editing but nonetheless, the play was well done and a joy to watch, especially when your granddaughter is on stage.
Today, two shows were held with another performance on Monday evening. The cast is large, about 50 in total. The time commitment of both teachers and students is enormous but must be worthwhile. The student actors have much experience and expertise and clearly enjoyed the play and the performance. Our family certainly enjoyed it too.
Today, two shows were held with another performance on Monday evening. The cast is large, about 50 in total. The time commitment of both teachers and students is enormous but must be worthwhile. The student actors have much experience and expertise and clearly enjoyed the play and the performance. Our family certainly enjoyed it too.
Friday, April 22, 2016
April 22, 2016. Madison, Mississippi. The Full Moon.
The full moon is shining across the reservoir which makes for a lovely sight. From our living room it appears that you could walk along the path across the water. From the bedroom, the sight is just as beautiful but you see the leaves on the tree interrupting the path. The setting for our house is perfect. In the morning, the sun comes up across the reservoir so I can see the sunrise from my bed. By mid-morning, the trees filter out the bright sun and by noon the sun is no longer shining on the deck. We overlook the lake with the evening breezes coming off the lake and we are shaded from the sun. Perfect exposure, especially important in the south.
If we were inclined, we could sit on the deck in our comfortable chairs around Ken's new toy and feel the warmth from the little propane furnace. And we could watch the moon streaming across the water. Ken assembled the toy and is now running perfectly. We tried it out this evening. Our builder was impressed too, along with me. Unfortunately, the weather is getting warm but perhaps in the evenings we will need warming up. It certainly looks pretty even if we don't need the heat. If I was not wearing my night shirt, I might go outside and try it out so we can enjoy the beauty of the moon. For now, we will view the sight from inside our home. Perhaps next full moon we will be adventuresome and go outside…and maybe not. Pretty nice looking from inside.
If we were inclined, we could sit on the deck in our comfortable chairs around Ken's new toy and feel the warmth from the little propane furnace. And we could watch the moon streaming across the water. Ken assembled the toy and is now running perfectly. We tried it out this evening. Our builder was impressed too, along with me. Unfortunately, the weather is getting warm but perhaps in the evenings we will need warming up. It certainly looks pretty even if we don't need the heat. If I was not wearing my night shirt, I might go outside and try it out so we can enjoy the beauty of the moon. For now, we will view the sight from inside our home. Perhaps next full moon we will be adventuresome and go outside…and maybe not. Pretty nice looking from inside.
Thursday, April 21, 2016
April 21, 2016. Madison, Mississippi. Our Heater.
Ken likes toys. Big toys and little toys. Internet ordering is a bonanza for him. Today a large box arrived and was left outside the garage. The FedEx man just took it off the truck and left it at the first safe spot. The box was heavy. Some assembly was required. In the absence of Wendy, Ken decided he could put it together himself. But first he had to get it back to the deck. He opened the large box and using the dolly, carried the larger box into the house. Then he was forced to take a nap. Fortunately, Chantes arrived and carried all the pieces down the stairs, ready to take the pieces through the door so Ken could assemble it.
Every time we bought deck furniture, Ken looked longingly at the round tables with a propane bottle in the middle and stones in a small circle in the center, with flames coming up to provide heat. Ken likes them so I knew it was merely time before we became a proud owner of one of these gadgets. Now he had half finished the job. He told me it was half the price of the ones we saw in the stores. Ours is not round so it will serve as a coffee table too. "It will extend the use of the deck" says Ken, "with a source of heat on a cool day." One thing for sure is that if we are not careful, our deck will be crowded with furniture. Ken is delighted with his new purchase. I on the other hand, am not convinced it is useful. But we will see. Ken is full of good ideas in general so I feel sure we will enjoy it's use. Imagine, our own heater on our deck. So nice.
Every time we bought deck furniture, Ken looked longingly at the round tables with a propane bottle in the middle and stones in a small circle in the center, with flames coming up to provide heat. Ken likes them so I knew it was merely time before we became a proud owner of one of these gadgets. Now he had half finished the job. He told me it was half the price of the ones we saw in the stores. Ours is not round so it will serve as a coffee table too. "It will extend the use of the deck" says Ken, "with a source of heat on a cool day." One thing for sure is that if we are not careful, our deck will be crowded with furniture. Ken is delighted with his new purchase. I on the other hand, am not convinced it is useful. But we will see. Ken is full of good ideas in general so I feel sure we will enjoy it's use. Imagine, our own heater on our deck. So nice.
Wednesday, April 20, 2016
April 20, 2016. Madison, Mississippi. Progress.
Progress is being made. While we speak, Pancho is making ready the frame for the glass which will be installed at the top of the railing on our deck. The railing was not high enough so we built on top of the sides and ordered glass for the front, all before we went to Mexico. The glass had to be ordered. Soon it will be installed…we hope before we leave.
The Escape has been repaired and sits in Christina's driveway. The insurance company declared it a total loss so sent us a cheque. We decided to make the repairs because the cost was $600. over the insurance money and the car has been a good car. But getting the car back on the road has been complicated and it is not over yet. We first were required to send our title to the insurance company who then sent it to the state as salvage. The state will return it, which we eventually will receive. Christina has obtained the application for a salvaged vehicle and has pictures of the damage. Next and last step is to make an appointment to inspect the car with the state. Until then, the car must sit.
The truck has completed the 100,000 check up. It runs like a charm. All the waiting and the organizing was worthwhile. We will be ready and able to drive to Texas in early June with no anxiety about the truck. Progress is always good for the soul.
The Escape has been repaired and sits in Christina's driveway. The insurance company declared it a total loss so sent us a cheque. We decided to make the repairs because the cost was $600. over the insurance money and the car has been a good car. But getting the car back on the road has been complicated and it is not over yet. We first were required to send our title to the insurance company who then sent it to the state as salvage. The state will return it, which we eventually will receive. Christina has obtained the application for a salvaged vehicle and has pictures of the damage. Next and last step is to make an appointment to inspect the car with the state. Until then, the car must sit.
The truck has completed the 100,000 check up. It runs like a charm. All the waiting and the organizing was worthwhile. We will be ready and able to drive to Texas in early June with no anxiety about the truck. Progress is always good for the soul.
Tuesday, April 19, 2016
April 19, 2016. Madison, Mississippi. The Truck.
Last Wednesday we left the truck to be serviced. We were taking an excursion with Wendy on Thursday and the 100,000 mileage had passed without completing the regular service so we took it to Gateway, who we have used in the past. Our drill was complicated. I took the truck in at 6:45 to be sure they would take it in the first shift when they opened at 7. When Christina dropped Molly at school, she picked me up at Gateway and also Ken and Wendy from home and we all ate a hearty breakfast at Primos. It was fun and festive. When Christina picked Molly up at 2, she picked me up at home and dropped me off to get the truck. But the truck was not ready so I asked to take the truck and bring it back next week, which they agreed to do.
Today was the day to complete the job on the truck, with the same drill with Christina except today only Christina and I ate breakfast. But once again, the truck was not ready when she dropped me off at 2. So yet again I took it and will try again tomorrow except with no breakfast. I will take the truck at 6:45 and drink a cup of coffee while Christina drops off Molly at 7:30 then picks me up to take me home. And once again, Christina will pick me up at home to retrieve the truck. They have promised to have the task completed tomorrow. I hope so. Poor Christina is always picking me up or dropping me off. Fortunately she is good natured and very helpful. We could not do without our Clever Christina.
Today was the day to complete the job on the truck, with the same drill with Christina except today only Christina and I ate breakfast. But once again, the truck was not ready when she dropped me off at 2. So yet again I took it and will try again tomorrow except with no breakfast. I will take the truck at 6:45 and drink a cup of coffee while Christina drops off Molly at 7:30 then picks me up to take me home. And once again, Christina will pick me up at home to retrieve the truck. They have promised to have the task completed tomorrow. I hope so. Poor Christina is always picking me up or dropping me off. Fortunately she is good natured and very helpful. We could not do without our Clever Christina.
Monday, April 18, 2016
April 18, 2016. Madison, Mississippi. Our Haircuts.
Simple things bring great pleasure to our lives. Today, our only appointment was a haircut with LeeAnne at 12:30. We go together as she is quick. Then we go out for lunch which makes for a special day.
The salon is unusual in that each haircutter works as an independent person, more like a coop in an art shop. Four people were working. And they were talking to each other, not to their customers. Ken and I were fascinated by the conversation, which was all about the published list of pedophiles. We know nothing about that list but those four ladies gave us a seminar. They knew a lot more than we did and discussed the fairness and unfairness of the practice and whether or not it has any effect on the population. The conversation was fascinating. We just sat like mice, listening to their discussion. When Ken and I got into the car we looked each other in wonderment, that we had listened into a learned discussion of lists of pedophiles, and it's value to the community. It was a fascinating discussion by those four hairdressers.
We had driven by the Mug Shot restaurant a hundred times but had never gone in, until today. The place is really a glorified sport's bar. In the evenings when we drive by, the parking lot would be full but today in early afternoon there were few customers. The food was spicy but good. Even the french fries were hot and spicy. Now we know what is there, we will doubtless not go in again but we enjoyed our lunch. Our day was simple but interesting in a quiet kind of way.
The salon is unusual in that each haircutter works as an independent person, more like a coop in an art shop. Four people were working. And they were talking to each other, not to their customers. Ken and I were fascinated by the conversation, which was all about the published list of pedophiles. We know nothing about that list but those four ladies gave us a seminar. They knew a lot more than we did and discussed the fairness and unfairness of the practice and whether or not it has any effect on the population. The conversation was fascinating. We just sat like mice, listening to their discussion. When Ken and I got into the car we looked each other in wonderment, that we had listened into a learned discussion of lists of pedophiles, and it's value to the community. It was a fascinating discussion by those four hairdressers.
We had driven by the Mug Shot restaurant a hundred times but had never gone in, until today. The place is really a glorified sport's bar. In the evenings when we drive by, the parking lot would be full but today in early afternoon there were few customers. The food was spicy but good. Even the french fries were hot and spicy. Now we know what is there, we will doubtless not go in again but we enjoyed our lunch. Our day was simple but interesting in a quiet kind of way.
Sunday, April 17, 2016
April 17, 2016. Madison, Mississippi. The Playoffs.
I am in hog heaven. Both basketball and hockey has started their playoffs. In the early rounds, there are many games so anytime I watch TV, a playoff game could be found. It is lots of fun, at least it is for me. I get to watch 30 minutes of a team who I never get to see through out the year. I only watch a bit at a time because I am not good at sitting still, so I end up having to look up the score.
Tonight late, the Predators who play in Memphis will be playing the Anaheim Ducks. The game will be late as it is being played in California. Since we moved here, we have watched the Predators on TV many times so they have become our home team. We are cheering for them to advance. Much to everyones surprise, the Predators won the first game so the second game will probably have a different outcome. The Ducks are one of the best teams in the league and clearly overlooked the lowly Predators who only made the playoffs as a wild card and did so the last day of the season.
And we always cheer for the Caps but they tend to fold in the playoffs even though they have won their first two games this first round. Last year they were up 3 to 1 and still managed to lose in the first round. I cheer for them but hate to watch them lose. They are such a talented team so maybe this year they will be move right through to The Stanley Cup final.
For the first time in a long time, no Canadian team is in the playoffs. The Canadians are not pleased. But they are tracking the success of the Canadian players who are playing, just to have a bit of fun. No question about it, playoffs are great fun.
Tonight late, the Predators who play in Memphis will be playing the Anaheim Ducks. The game will be late as it is being played in California. Since we moved here, we have watched the Predators on TV many times so they have become our home team. We are cheering for them to advance. Much to everyones surprise, the Predators won the first game so the second game will probably have a different outcome. The Ducks are one of the best teams in the league and clearly overlooked the lowly Predators who only made the playoffs as a wild card and did so the last day of the season.
And we always cheer for the Caps but they tend to fold in the playoffs even though they have won their first two games this first round. Last year they were up 3 to 1 and still managed to lose in the first round. I cheer for them but hate to watch them lose. They are such a talented team so maybe this year they will be move right through to The Stanley Cup final.
For the first time in a long time, no Canadian team is in the playoffs. The Canadians are not pleased. But they are tracking the success of the Canadian players who are playing, just to have a bit of fun. No question about it, playoffs are great fun.
Saturday, April 16, 2016
April 16, 2016. Madison, Mississippi. A Fond Farewell.
Wonderful Wendy is on her way home. We will miss her in about 100 different ways, not the least is bringing us ice cream for dessert. Wendy is a worker bee. She is not prone to sitting around doing nothing but talk. When I invited her to come to visit us to see the finished product of our new home, she asked us to think of tasks for her. I just laughed but said not a word.
What I was actually doing was making a list. I certainly would not want Wendy to be bored. So we went shopping for furniture and she moved the furniture in place. Wendy removed the ivy from the trees and she caulked the guest bathroom. She noticed that the pencil marks were still on the kitchen cabinets when the new pulls were installed. The marks are now gone, thanks to Wendy. Our meals were prepared and the kitchen kept in order. The kitchen light bulb has been replaced. The list could go on and on. We enjoyed Wendy's company and we appreciated all her efforts on our behalf. And we will miss her company.
What I was actually doing was making a list. I certainly would not want Wendy to be bored. So we went shopping for furniture and she moved the furniture in place. Wendy removed the ivy from the trees and she caulked the guest bathroom. She noticed that the pencil marks were still on the kitchen cabinets when the new pulls were installed. The marks are now gone, thanks to Wendy. Our meals were prepared and the kitchen kept in order. The kitchen light bulb has been replaced. The list could go on and on. We enjoyed Wendy's company and we appreciated all her efforts on our behalf. And we will miss her company.
April 15, 2016. Madison, Mississippi. A Dinner Party.
The dinner was splendid, as was the company. It was the perfect sendoff for Wonderful Wendy. Eleanor and Jim invited us so Wendy could see their beautiful home. In addition to touring the house, they had prepared a magnificent and elegant dinner for us and the Mills. The conversation was timely and controversial. It certainly was interesting. We discussed the recent actions of the Governor of Mississippi. Politics is something we generally do not discuss.
The evening moved along very quickly and before we knew it and we arrived home, it was almost 11:30, which is an heard of time for us. Both Ken and I must be getting better to be able to stay up until almost midnight before retiring. The whole evening was delightful thanks to the courtesy and hospitality of our friends Eleanor and Jim. And of course, Eleanor is a wonderful cook!!
Another first for Wendy was the children. There were 7 children in the house along with the 7 adults. After the initial greeting, the children were not heard from the rest of the evening. It is astonishing but true that the home schooled children know how to look after themselves and play together. I am always impressed at their behavior but this was the first time Wendy has seen them in action. She too was impressed with the polite demeanor of the children. Ou8r whole evening was a delight.
The evening moved along very quickly and before we knew it and we arrived home, it was almost 11:30, which is an heard of time for us. Both Ken and I must be getting better to be able to stay up until almost midnight before retiring. The whole evening was delightful thanks to the courtesy and hospitality of our friends Eleanor and Jim. And of course, Eleanor is a wonderful cook!!
Another first for Wendy was the children. There were 7 children in the house along with the 7 adults. After the initial greeting, the children were not heard from the rest of the evening. It is astonishing but true that the home schooled children know how to look after themselves and play together. I am always impressed at their behavior but this was the first time Wendy has seen them in action. She too was impressed with the polite demeanor of the children. Ou8r whole evening was a delight.
Thursday, April 14, 2016
April 14, 2016. Madison, Mississippi. The Delta Excursion.
Twice has Wendy been to Mississippi and twice she has not seen the Mighty Mississippi River…until today. The highlight of our day was when, with Wendy driving, we drove up the levee to see the river. The truck was just at the top of the steep road. We could see the river but we could see nothing in front of us but air and water. Ken in the back seat could see nothing but he heard us gasp. We were in Greenville, an old river town that was once thriving. Wendy inched forward to find a steep hill on the water side covered with parking spaces, with all cars on a slant. We wanted no part of that.
The Delta is a mystical place to the folks of Mississippi. To me it is merely very flat. Our excursion today had the goals of visiting the potter Peter in Mound Bayou, see the Mississippi River and show the Delta to Wendy. We accomplished all three. And we did well, leaving at 9:00 and returning at 6:00. I drove the first 2 hours while Wendy drove the rest of the time.
For lunch we ate in Cleveland at a funky little place called Delta Southern Food. The fried chicken and vegetables were delicious. Our excursion was splendid. Next up with Wendy will by Vicksburg and Natchez, but that must wait for another visit.
The Delta is a mystical place to the folks of Mississippi. To me it is merely very flat. Our excursion today had the goals of visiting the potter Peter in Mound Bayou, see the Mississippi River and show the Delta to Wendy. We accomplished all three. And we did well, leaving at 9:00 and returning at 6:00. I drove the first 2 hours while Wendy drove the rest of the time.
For lunch we ate in Cleveland at a funky little place called Delta Southern Food. The fried chicken and vegetables were delicious. Our excursion was splendid. Next up with Wendy will by Vicksburg and Natchez, but that must wait for another visit.
Wednesday, April 13, 2016
April 13, 2016. Madison, Mississippi. A Work Day.
Wendy will sleep well tonight or perhaps her muscles will be too sore to relax, but today was a day of physical work for Wonderful Wendy. Right after breakfast at Primos with the three of us and Christina, Wendy attacked the vines that have grown up our big trees. She heard Ken and I discuss the question of who was supposed to be removing the vines, the yard maintenance man or the man who will trim the trees. The vines were removed from the house and the garage but nothing was done to the trees so Wendy took it on herself to put them off and cut them down. She finished around 2:00 and was weary. It was a big job.
Home Depot delivered our furniture at 3:00 but instead of arriving with already assembled chairs and table, the truck brought us cardboard boxes. I was not pleased but was not going to allow them to be returned, so Wendy volunteered to assemble the 6 chairs and table. It was not an easy task. I stayed out of the way. Wendy assembled the chairs in the garage and carried them to the deck. The delivery man had taken the table to the deck so Wendy put it together out back. Tomorrow we will carry the cushions from the garage and place the table and chairs on the deck. The assembly has been completed, thanks to Wendy.
Yesterday, when the delivery man arrived, he needed help to take the furniture to the lower deck so Wendy helped. Fortunately, Wendy has been keeping fit and strong so she has been up to these tasks. But I suspect she was not intending to spend the whole day doing physically demanding work. I only wish we had a hot tub so she could soak her aching muscles. Ken and I are grateful for her help. We could never have done those tasks ourselves.
Home Depot delivered our furniture at 3:00 but instead of arriving with already assembled chairs and table, the truck brought us cardboard boxes. I was not pleased but was not going to allow them to be returned, so Wendy volunteered to assemble the 6 chairs and table. It was not an easy task. I stayed out of the way. Wendy assembled the chairs in the garage and carried them to the deck. The delivery man had taken the table to the deck so Wendy put it together out back. Tomorrow we will carry the cushions from the garage and place the table and chairs on the deck. The assembly has been completed, thanks to Wendy.
Yesterday, when the delivery man arrived, he needed help to take the furniture to the lower deck so Wendy helped. Fortunately, Wendy has been keeping fit and strong so she has been up to these tasks. But I suspect she was not intending to spend the whole day doing physically demanding work. I only wish we had a hot tub so she could soak her aching muscles. Ken and I are grateful for her help. We could never have done those tasks ourselves.
Tuesday, April 12, 2016
April 12, 2016. Madison, Mississippi. Walt MacD.
This was a most surprising event. Last Thursday, early in the morning, Walt woke up with severe indigestion. Mary went for the Malox while Walt said they should go to emergency at the hospital, so Mary was pulling on her jeans when Walt slipped to the floor, unconscious. Mary called 911 and began CPR. The ambulance folks were quickly on the scene and took over. They started his heart beating and placed him on a ventilator. And they took him to the ICU at the Halifax Hospital, where they have a cardiac center. Walt had suffered a massive heart attack.
At the hospital they sedated him and cooled his body. Interestingly, Mary M. worked on this technique when she was a graduate school. Now it is being used on Walt. When you cool the body after a trauma, the brain damage is less severe. As no one knows how long Walt was without oxygen to the brain, the anxiety is that he has had some damage. You will not know until he awakes.
We are encouraged. Yesterday Walt was able to squeeze the fingers of the nurse on command and wiggle his toes when asked. He was off the ventilator for a period of time and not sedated for a couple of hours. But there is great anxiety in the group of friends and family who love Walt and Mary. After all, Walt was thin and fit and active…we all thought. Now he is fighting for his life with Mary by his side. We all depend on Walt along with many others. But mostly we want him to get well. I know he is wanting it too.
At the hospital they sedated him and cooled his body. Interestingly, Mary M. worked on this technique when she was a graduate school. Now it is being used on Walt. When you cool the body after a trauma, the brain damage is less severe. As no one knows how long Walt was without oxygen to the brain, the anxiety is that he has had some damage. You will not know until he awakes.
We are encouraged. Yesterday Walt was able to squeeze the fingers of the nurse on command and wiggle his toes when asked. He was off the ventilator for a period of time and not sedated for a couple of hours. But there is great anxiety in the group of friends and family who love Walt and Mary. After all, Walt was thin and fit and active…we all thought. Now he is fighting for his life with Mary by his side. We all depend on Walt along with many others. But mostly we want him to get well. I know he is wanting it too.
Monday, April 11, 2016
April 11, 2016. Madison, Mississippi. The Storm.
We three arrived home from the consignment shops with a truck full of furniture. Fortunately, we got home before the storm hit. First heavy rain, followed by even heavier rain. Then thunder and lightning sweeping the area. One bolt of lighting and clap of thunder was so loud and close that both Wendy and I jumped. The immediate response was to go to bed, but it was only 8:00. For a few minutes, the storm subsides but soon the rain comes followed by the wind and thunder and lightning. The officials have extended the flood warning until midnight.
Meanwhile our furniture stays in the truck. The forecast is for rain tomorrow, but sure we will be able to move the stuff into the garage. Wendy hopes to go for a run but she can not do that in the rain, especially if we have another storm.
This storm has been spectacular. So much rain that our fireplace has drips of water covering the wood. That has never happened before. The best place to be in a storm in Mississippi is at home. Today we three just got lucky.
Meanwhile our furniture stays in the truck. The forecast is for rain tomorrow, but sure we will be able to move the stuff into the garage. Wendy hopes to go for a run but she can not do that in the rain, especially if we have another storm.
This storm has been spectacular. So much rain that our fireplace has drips of water covering the wood. That has never happened before. The best place to be in a storm in Mississippi is at home. Today we three just got lucky.
Sunday, April 10, 2016
April 10, 2016. Madison, Mississippi. Shopping.
We had such fun shopping today. The three of us make good shoppers, each heading out in all directions to check out the deck furniture, then eventually getting together to share ideas. Sure enough, we were successful. The top deck is now furnished.
Target had the fewest options and many objects were not priced. Once I tracked down a man to tell me a price for chairs. He brought his little machine over, scanned the object, told me the price and walked away. Amazingly bad service. We bought 2 seat cushions for the two chairs we do own and left.
Next up was Home Depot, just down the street. The outdoor furniture was at the front of the store in the corner. Everything was priced and set out in groupings. And the prices were right. After looking at all they had for sale, we three sat at a table and decided what to buy. A young man came by to help. Without moving, we ordered the set of 7, made up of a table, 4 chairs and 2 swivel chairs. All we had to do was pay the cashier on the way out. They will assemble the table and chairs and deliver them to us on Wednesday.
The last stop was the expensive store Ken and I visited last week. We needed at least two comfortable chairs on our top deck, where Ken and I are likely to sit. Finally, we selected two chairs, also a heavy two seat set for the dock, whenever it gets done. They will be delivered on Tuesday afternoon.
Tomorrow, we three will visit the consignment shops. So far our new and larger deck has no furniture at all. We are a splendid group of shoppers so I feel sure we will soon fill in our empty spaces on our back decks.
Target had the fewest options and many objects were not priced. Once I tracked down a man to tell me a price for chairs. He brought his little machine over, scanned the object, told me the price and walked away. Amazingly bad service. We bought 2 seat cushions for the two chairs we do own and left.
Next up was Home Depot, just down the street. The outdoor furniture was at the front of the store in the corner. Everything was priced and set out in groupings. And the prices were right. After looking at all they had for sale, we three sat at a table and decided what to buy. A young man came by to help. Without moving, we ordered the set of 7, made up of a table, 4 chairs and 2 swivel chairs. All we had to do was pay the cashier on the way out. They will assemble the table and chairs and deliver them to us on Wednesday.
The last stop was the expensive store Ken and I visited last week. We needed at least two comfortable chairs on our top deck, where Ken and I are likely to sit. Finally, we selected two chairs, also a heavy two seat set for the dock, whenever it gets done. They will be delivered on Tuesday afternoon.
Tomorrow, we three will visit the consignment shops. So far our new and larger deck has no furniture at all. We are a splendid group of shoppers so I feel sure we will soon fill in our empty spaces on our back decks.
Saturday, April 9, 2016
April 9, 2016. Madison, Mississippi. Wonderful Wendy.
Wonderful Wendy has come to visit. She never comes just to visit. She comes to be helpful. She is my niece and has been helpful to me ever since she came to help me in 1972 when we bought our first home in Bethesda. Our present home is complete on the inside so we have no projects for her. We wanted her to see the finished product. A year ago, she opened every box, working from dawn to dusk to organize the kitchen and the pantry, in addition to our closet. When she left to go home, our home was a mess with paintings piled everywhere. When she unload the dishwasher tonight, she even remembered where things belonged. Of course, she put them there.
Her task this visit is to furnish our new decks. We have expanded and improved the decks but now we have no furniture. Wendy is happy to be having a major project. Tomorrow we will measure and try to figure out what furniture ww need. Sitting outside is lovely, at least when we are here in the Spring and Fall. We look east so the afternoons are lovely watching the birds and the boats. It is neither hot nor cold. Just right. We need Wonderful Wendy to help with the purchase and the installation. She and I will go exploring, beginning tomorrow afternoon.
Ken ordered a new mail box but it is so heavy he can not pick it up, let along install it. But Wendy will help. By the end of her visit, our outside will be as comfortable as the inside, thanks to Wendy. I am so fortunate to have a niece, especially one like Wonderful Wendy.
Her task this visit is to furnish our new decks. We have expanded and improved the decks but now we have no furniture. Wendy is happy to be having a major project. Tomorrow we will measure and try to figure out what furniture ww need. Sitting outside is lovely, at least when we are here in the Spring and Fall. We look east so the afternoons are lovely watching the birds and the boats. It is neither hot nor cold. Just right. We need Wonderful Wendy to help with the purchase and the installation. She and I will go exploring, beginning tomorrow afternoon.
Ken ordered a new mail box but it is so heavy he can not pick it up, let along install it. But Wendy will help. By the end of her visit, our outside will be as comfortable as the inside, thanks to Wendy. I am so fortunate to have a niece, especially one like Wonderful Wendy.
Friday, April 8, 2016
April 8, 2016. Madison, Mississippi. The Mall.
Jackson has a covered mall but until today we had never set our feet inside the place. Actually, the Mall is in Ridgeland. Our friends Don and Doreen discovered the Mall when they were looking for a place to walk. We suggested Dillards but had not realized that the store is adjacent and attached to a mall. The first day they walked in Dillards and after then they walked the Mall which they reported was a pleasant place for walking. Don likes to walk in an area where the ground is level and a mall fits the bill.
Jackson has a lot of rain so I suggested that we explore the Mall for walking on days when the weather is not conducive to walking outdoors, so today we did. Ken even knew a drive without using busy roads so it took us ten minutes to park the truck and go into Dillards to explore. There are two levels in the Mall, full of interesting store to keep us entertained. We discovered that Dillards has two stores, one at each end of the Mall. When we walked the Mall looking for Dillards, we discovered we had only walked half way around the Mall. The elevator took us down to the small food court where we bought our late lunch, half of which we brought home for a later meal. All this food for $12. Ken is good with directions so took us back upstairs to the Dillards where we parked. I was convinced we should be turning left. Now we know the ins and outs of this Mall and can walk there anytime we are inclined. This is a good thing because we should walk every day. Now there is no excuse on a rainy day!!
Jackson has a lot of rain so I suggested that we explore the Mall for walking on days when the weather is not conducive to walking outdoors, so today we did. Ken even knew a drive without using busy roads so it took us ten minutes to park the truck and go into Dillards to explore. There are two levels in the Mall, full of interesting store to keep us entertained. We discovered that Dillards has two stores, one at each end of the Mall. When we walked the Mall looking for Dillards, we discovered we had only walked half way around the Mall. The elevator took us down to the small food court where we bought our late lunch, half of which we brought home for a later meal. All this food for $12. Ken is good with directions so took us back upstairs to the Dillards where we parked. I was convinced we should be turning left. Now we know the ins and outs of this Mall and can walk there anytime we are inclined. This is a good thing because we should walk every day. Now there is no excuse on a rainy day!!
Thursday, April 7, 2016
April 7, 2016. Madison, Mississippi. Glasses.
My first reading glasses I purchased at a drug store in Hagerstown for $2.50. They have worked well. I still carry them in the truck for when I am using maps, which are devilishly difficult to read. I purchased them when my first cataract was removed. After the surgery was done in both eyes, my vision was 20/20 and I could adjust for reading too so for the first time since I was 7 years old, I needed no glasses, except for reading the maps. Such a wonderful world to not need glasses.
In the middle of the night after my first bout of infusion chemotherapy, the large blue painting adjacent to our bed looked blurred. I knew that something was happening to my eyes. Several months later I was seeing 20/60 so needed glasses and have used them ever since. And I must wear reading glasses. I placed drug store glasses beside every chair but I still can not read properly. This week I saw the eye doctor. He has no idea why my eyes are changing but this time I needed to get stronger distance glasses and I was forced to get prescription reading glasses because the eyes are different. The cheap glasses will not work. I am pleased. I will once again be able to read signs and to read books and magazines comfortably.
When I was growing up, the eye doctors all told me that when I stopped growing my eyes would stop getting worse. They were wrong. When I got older, my vision started to get better, until now. Now I am taking no chemotherapy so perhaps my eyes will become stable. We are going to see. At the moment, I am happy as I can see and I can read with the help of my new glasses.
In the middle of the night after my first bout of infusion chemotherapy, the large blue painting adjacent to our bed looked blurred. I knew that something was happening to my eyes. Several months later I was seeing 20/60 so needed glasses and have used them ever since. And I must wear reading glasses. I placed drug store glasses beside every chair but I still can not read properly. This week I saw the eye doctor. He has no idea why my eyes are changing but this time I needed to get stronger distance glasses and I was forced to get prescription reading glasses because the eyes are different. The cheap glasses will not work. I am pleased. I will once again be able to read signs and to read books and magazines comfortably.
When I was growing up, the eye doctors all told me that when I stopped growing my eyes would stop getting worse. They were wrong. When I got older, my vision started to get better, until now. Now I am taking no chemotherapy so perhaps my eyes will become stable. We are going to see. At the moment, I am happy as I can see and I can read with the help of my new glasses.
Wednesday, April 6, 2016
April 6, 2016. Madison, Mississippi. Our Dock.
We have never owned a permanent dock. The idea was intriguing for Ken to be able to fish from his own dock year round and we both liked the idea of being able to use the water without going in a boat. And of course the children love going down to the water. Ever since we moved into this home, we have been worrying about the interior, repairing and upgrading wherever necessary. Now the inside is completed so before we went to Mexico we contracted to begin the outside. The wood decks needed attention and the lights totally reinstalled. Upon our return, we were pleased with the work.
Ken walked down to the decks last week and inspected it carefully along with the dock. Chantes our handyman/buildre did the same. The decks were wonderful but they both agreed that the dock was dangerous. Both the top boards and the posts were rotted. We were fortunate that no one fell into the water. Now the dock is being replaced. At first we were told they would take three days to complete the job but they have already worked on it for 5 days and there is no end in sight. This task is much more difficult than anticipated. I watch while the men stand on the stringers right over the water and wonder how soon it will be before someone falls in. At the least, tools must have ended on the bottom. Once again, I am grateful that I am not in charge of rebuilding our dock. But I will be pleased when it is sturdy and safe.
Ken walked down to the decks last week and inspected it carefully along with the dock. Chantes our handyman/buildre did the same. The decks were wonderful but they both agreed that the dock was dangerous. Both the top boards and the posts were rotted. We were fortunate that no one fell into the water. Now the dock is being replaced. At first we were told they would take three days to complete the job but they have already worked on it for 5 days and there is no end in sight. This task is much more difficult than anticipated. I watch while the men stand on the stringers right over the water and wonder how soon it will be before someone falls in. At the least, tools must have ended on the bottom. Once again, I am grateful that I am not in charge of rebuilding our dock. But I will be pleased when it is sturdy and safe.
Tuesday, April 5, 2016
April 5, 2016. Madison, Mississippi. Television and Internet.
When we married, we had no television. We could not afford it, so when something we wanted was been shown on TV, we visited friends. We did not miss it a bit. After moving to Texas where we both had incomes, we bought a small set, if for no other reason than to track the storms. One Olympics, we bought our first color set when the boys were 6 and 7. For us it was a big one and we enjoyed it. Of course, no one enjoyed Internet until fairly recently because it did not exist.
I no longer wish to live without television and internet. They both bring me great pleasure. The AT&T man arrived on time yesterday to repair the cable. I felt as though I should hug his neck. He certainly would have been surprised. But he fixed our systems. I was able to watch Antiques Road Show and the NCAA championship game. And today I reviewed my hundreds of e mails. Tonight Ken and I ate supper watching a hockey game on TV. Our life has returned to normal.
Our normal is watching little television, but when I want to rest my eyes or watch a hockey game, I want the ability to watch television. And without the Internet, we can not function. Our appointments, our accounting, our family and friends all depend on the Internet so we were both relieved when the young man restored our systems. It is interesting to me that they both have become important because for years we functioned perfectly well without either. But no more. We have joined the modern world.
I no longer wish to live without television and internet. They both bring me great pleasure. The AT&T man arrived on time yesterday to repair the cable. I felt as though I should hug his neck. He certainly would have been surprised. But he fixed our systems. I was able to watch Antiques Road Show and the NCAA championship game. And today I reviewed my hundreds of e mails. Tonight Ken and I ate supper watching a hockey game on TV. Our life has returned to normal.
Our normal is watching little television, but when I want to rest my eyes or watch a hockey game, I want the ability to watch television. And without the Internet, we can not function. Our appointments, our accounting, our family and friends all depend on the Internet so we were both relieved when the young man restored our systems. It is interesting to me that they both have become important because for years we functioned perfectly well without either. But no more. We have joined the modern world.
Monday, April 4, 2016
April 4, 2016. Madison, Mississippi. My Friend Sara Lou.
I wonder why bed things always come in bunches? Or does it? Always seems so to me. Poor friend Sara Lou was finishing up at Brad's house prior to returning to Maryland when she fell on the bottom step and broke her shoulder. Here she is, all by herself in a place she knows very few people and she must go to the hospital. Being resilient, she called 911 and was taken to an emergency room where X-rays were taken and the shoulder put into a sling with directions to return home to Maryland the next day.
Now she has a big problem because she is in Charlotte with her own car and she can not drive. Her daughter Lee can not get away to help, but friend Susann H. steps up to the plate. Shy flies to Charlotte and the next day drives them both back home. Isn't there something about a friend in need being a friend indeed!! That is a wonderful example.
Now in addition to dealing with all the details around son Brad's death, Sara Lou must contend with being housebound in her own home but unable to do much of anything. She is still wearing the same shirt she was wearing when she fell last Thursday. Fortunately, she has good friends who will help. I wish her well but these next few weeks will try her soul. But as Susan K. says, Sara Lou must try to find the gold along her path. I feel sure she will.
Now she has a big problem because she is in Charlotte with her own car and she can not drive. Her daughter Lee can not get away to help, but friend Susann H. steps up to the plate. Shy flies to Charlotte and the next day drives them both back home. Isn't there something about a friend in need being a friend indeed!! That is a wonderful example.
Now in addition to dealing with all the details around son Brad's death, Sara Lou must contend with being housebound in her own home but unable to do much of anything. She is still wearing the same shirt she was wearing when she fell last Thursday. Fortunately, she has good friends who will help. I wish her well but these next few weeks will try her soul. But as Susan K. says, Sara Lou must try to find the gold along her path. I feel sure she will.
Sunday, April 3, 2016
March 3, 2016. Jackson, Mississippi. More Happy Traditions.
This afternoon I brought biscotti with me when I came to write my wee web log at Christina's. I knew that we would have just enough time to drink a cup of tea and dunk biscotti. Christina made the tea and Molly, Mary Frances, Christina and I sat around like ladies enjoying our tea. Mary Frances has choir practice at 4:30 so I came in the nick of time before she was driven to rehearsal. Her choir at church is singing at the 6:00 service tonight, which Christina and Molly will attend but I will return home like a heathen We all enjoy the tradition of afternoon tea especially when we are together.
Most Sunday mornings we 6 go out for Brunch. The girls always dress in their fancy dresses and look lovely. Ken even wore his dark suit today, just to keep up with the look of the group. Each Sunday we visit a different restaurant. By now we have been to all the brunch places in town so we get to select a favorite from the past. We always let the girls decide. This morning Molly chose Anjou, a wonderful french restaurant in Ridgeland. By the time we left, the place was packed, with people putting names on a list, so they must still be doing well. I actually thought that their food was not up to their old standard, which often happens to restaurants after a few years. For us, we were happy with our food and our service. But most of all, we enjoyed the tradition of brunch together on Sunday morning at 11:15, at a restaurant chosen by the girls. We all feel festive as we continue another happy tradition. .
Most Sunday mornings we 6 go out for Brunch. The girls always dress in their fancy dresses and look lovely. Ken even wore his dark suit today, just to keep up with the look of the group. Each Sunday we visit a different restaurant. By now we have been to all the brunch places in town so we get to select a favorite from the past. We always let the girls decide. This morning Molly chose Anjou, a wonderful french restaurant in Ridgeland. By the time we left, the place was packed, with people putting names on a list, so they must still be doing well. I actually thought that their food was not up to their old standard, which often happens to restaurants after a few years. For us, we were happy with our food and our service. But most of all, we enjoyed the tradition of brunch together on Sunday morning at 11:15, at a restaurant chosen by the girls. We all feel festive as we continue another happy tradition. .
Saturday, April 2, 2016
April 2, 20016. Jackson, Mississippi. Something Good.
The reason I am writing from Jackson, Mississippi is because our Internet and Television are not working at our home in Madison. In the middle of the night during a storm, a cable broke and our systems have not been working since yesterday morning. Unfortunately, the company will not be able to make the necessary repairs until Monday afternoon. Grrr. I now drive to Christina's home to use her computer and internet.
Like everything else, something good comes from everything so this morning I drove with Christina to pick up Kate from Mississippi College. The day was glorious so it was a lovely day for a drive. Until now, I had never done anything than drive by the campus but today Christina and I parked and walked to see Kate's dorm. I am 78 but until today, I had never seen a girls dorm room at college. They look different than boys dorms. The college is lovely and I can see why Kate is comfortable there. I was pleased to see her dorm room and to drive around the campus. And upon our arrival back home, I got to eat lunch with Christina and the girls along with their dog Rose. Under normal circumstances, I would have never been visiting with the family this morning but today I have enjoyed this unexpected pleasure, all because our systems are down. Things do work out.
Like everything else, something good comes from everything so this morning I drove with Christina to pick up Kate from Mississippi College. The day was glorious so it was a lovely day for a drive. Until now, I had never done anything than drive by the campus but today Christina and I parked and walked to see Kate's dorm. I am 78 but until today, I had never seen a girls dorm room at college. They look different than boys dorms. The college is lovely and I can see why Kate is comfortable there. I was pleased to see her dorm room and to drive around the campus. And upon our arrival back home, I got to eat lunch with Christina and the girls along with their dog Rose. Under normal circumstances, I would have never been visiting with the family this morning but today I have enjoyed this unexpected pleasure, all because our systems are down. Things do work out.
April 1, 2016. Jackson, Mississippi. Hang and Dine.
The evening was splendid, the perfect way to entertain. We had A GOAL, which was to hang our new painting so we invited the artist Eleanor and her husband Jim, who is an expert in picture hanging, for dinner along with Christina, who has impeccable taste. Of course, if you invite someone for dinner, we must be ready to serve food so we asked Lourdes to cook. She loves to cook but has never cooked for anyone other than her family so she was anxious about cooking for guests. We asked her to cook typical Cuban food and she did. It was delicious and I had nothing to do when she had left.
The painting now hangs over my desk which is perfect. In my mind, the perfect spot was to be adjacent to the chest in the dining room but it looked crowded so we tried several other places with Jim holding up the painting in place and the ladies giving advice. Everyone agreed so Jim measured and hung it in place. Of course, that meant several other painting needed moving but soon all was in place and we sat down to dinner. Our evening was pleasant and perfect. And Lourdes was pleased too.
The painting now hangs over my desk which is perfect. In my mind, the perfect spot was to be adjacent to the chest in the dining room but it looked crowded so we tried several other places with Jim holding up the painting in place and the ladies giving advice. Everyone agreed so Jim measured and hung it in place. Of course, that meant several other painting needed moving but soon all was in place and we sat down to dinner. Our evening was pleasant and perfect. And Lourdes was pleased too.
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