On both of sides of my family I was led to believe that we were English. The Houghtons for several generations lived on the north side of London. And the Buckley family came from Yorkshire. But it turns out I am must more interesting than that. This is the modern world. Ken ordered a pack from Heritage.com. I used two long sticks covered with cotton. Then I swabbed the inside of each cheek. Next I broke off the tip and sent them to the lab which I had placed into tiny vials full of fluid. Today, the results came to Ken on the email. Pretty nifty system.
Who knew I was 8.8% Scandinavian. And I was 1.5% Ashkenazi Jew. Also 1% East Asian and .9% From the Baltic. I am English, but only 36.5%. The rest, 51.3% Scottish and Welsh. So in the past, the Vikings got together with some ancestor. Also the Moguls. Fascinating stuff. This is all high tech stuff. Gill had herself tested too and they suggested to her that she had 4% Neanderthal, which is more than most. She also received more genetic information. Our test is for the business of your ancestry, not the genetic make up, which is what Gill did. It is still interesting.
Ken had his test a few months ago. His surprise was the amount of Scandinavian which was 15%. The rest was Scottish and Irish with a small % of English. And 1% Sardinian. He has subsequently found a relative who came from Italy, undoubtedly Sardinia.
No Irish in me. Now I must say I hail from Scotland and Wales which is much more interesting than saying England. Ken has had trouble finding Buckleys and Houghtons in the records. Now he will look in Scotland and Wales to find my ancestors. My ethnicity is complicated. And much more interesting. To be accurate, in the future I will say my family came from Scotland, Wales and England. That will be my story. Nifty.
Thursday, November 30, 2017
Wednesday, November 29, 2017
November 29, 2017. Madison, Mississippi. PBS.
I love the PBS specials. They show them during the two weeks of fundraising, which I hate. But I do enjoy some of the specials. For two Mondays, I have missed Antiques Roadshow because the stations were raising money. But I was able to watch the Three Texas Tenors. In fact I got to watch them more than once. They are great. There is a whole world of entertainment that I know nothing about so I enjoy the peek into another world. The tenors are excellent. I loved the show.
Holiday Inn was also shown. I did not know that a revival had been done on Broadway recently and lasted quite a awhile. That show was an old Irving Berlin show, famous for the Christmas song, "I'm dreaming of a white Christmas". The film of the new edition was terrific, full of dancing and singing.There was supposed to be a Frank Sinatra special but it got bumped for yet another Three Tenors. Same show just repeated. I guess the fund raising must have gone well when the tenors are singing.
David Foster and Friends was also just super. I watched through the whole show. I must admit that I switch to the hockey game when the spiel for raising money comes on but I know how long they take before switching from hockey to the show. But these past two weeks I have enjoyed listening to new voices. Hats off to PBS and their specials.
Holiday Inn was also shown. I did not know that a revival had been done on Broadway recently and lasted quite a awhile. That show was an old Irving Berlin show, famous for the Christmas song, "I'm dreaming of a white Christmas". The film of the new edition was terrific, full of dancing and singing.There was supposed to be a Frank Sinatra special but it got bumped for yet another Three Tenors. Same show just repeated. I guess the fund raising must have gone well when the tenors are singing.
David Foster and Friends was also just super. I watched through the whole show. I must admit that I switch to the hockey game when the spiel for raising money comes on but I know how long they take before switching from hockey to the show. But these past two weeks I have enjoyed listening to new voices. Hats off to PBS and their specials.
Tuesday, November 28, 2017
November 28, 2017. Madison, Mississippi. Cheaters.
Poor Elizabeth. The first call she took today was from her bank, telling her that she had no money in her account. Now she is a careful soul so she knew something was wrong. Evidently, someone had pulled all her money from her account. Some one had cheated her. Elizabeth helps us in our home. She keeps our house clean and she drives me on errands when Ken is not able. She owns her own cleaning service so stealing all her money is a blow to her, but the worst part is that the cheaters somehow had access to all her numbers. In other words, they stole her identity. What a hassle for her. Most of the day she spent visiting the police to file charges and closing her account and then opening another account in another bank. Such a waste of time. Then she must go through the process of getting her funds back which is never easy.
Years ago, my friend Nancy had her identity stolen. Her cheaters were professional. They opened new accounts and bought lots of stuff. It took awhile to find out the problem because the cheaters were smart. They did not remove cash, at least not until they knew the officials were on their tail. Poor Nancy spent months trying to sort it out. All her identity numbers were replaced but by then her credit was messed up so she was forced to try to get the records straight. After months of work, she thought everything had been put to right, until she received a letter complaining about her credit. Maddening. But she had no choice.
Our world of communications is wonderful as is our ability to pay for objects we wish to buy. But in the modern world, hackers spend all their time causing mischief and stealing money. It is not good. I just hope that Elizabeth was not dealing with true professionals. But no matter, she must persevere. Cheaters are such a nuisance.
Years ago, my friend Nancy had her identity stolen. Her cheaters were professional. They opened new accounts and bought lots of stuff. It took awhile to find out the problem because the cheaters were smart. They did not remove cash, at least not until they knew the officials were on their tail. Poor Nancy spent months trying to sort it out. All her identity numbers were replaced but by then her credit was messed up so she was forced to try to get the records straight. After months of work, she thought everything had been put to right, until she received a letter complaining about her credit. Maddening. But she had no choice.
Our world of communications is wonderful as is our ability to pay for objects we wish to buy. But in the modern world, hackers spend all their time causing mischief and stealing money. It is not good. I just hope that Elizabeth was not dealing with true professionals. But no matter, she must persevere. Cheaters are such a nuisance.
Monday, November 27, 2017
February 27, 2017. Madison, Mississippi. A True Story.
Chapter One: At home in San Antonio, the driveway was full of cars and someone needed to get out. Allison was asked to move the Subaru and she did. But when she backed up and turn so the other driver could get out, she backed into the mail box. The mail box is made of mortar and bricks and the bumper hit the bottom two rows of bricks so eventually the mailbox would fall over. Poor Allison had no idea how she turned into the mailbox as she must have turned the car right around, but she did. We had arrived just a few days after the mailbox incident so many comments headed Allison's way. The joking was good natured and she took it in good part, but we all took part in the ribbing Allison received.
While we were there, a man came to the door, saying that he was doing work for a neighbor and that David needed his help. So the next day, he rebuilt it and it looks good. Except he left all his stuff in David's wheelbarrow which he assure David he would come the next day to clear up his mess, which he never did. That is the end of chapter one.
Chapter Two: A few days ago. David was backing out of the driveway in his white truck. On the left side of the driveway is a brick wall, covering the trash cans. If you are parked directly in front of the garage, it is necessary to turn around the wall to get to the main driveway. Two other cars were in the parking area but David had plenty of space to get around the wall. He had done it hundreds of time. But this time he backed into the wall and knocked it down. Not the whole wall. Just many bricks. Well you know how pleased everyone was for David to hit the wall. He said the same thing as Allison had said, which was "I did not notice". He was as surprised as Allison. He thinks it was funny and I do too. Clearly, he was not paying attention. David is now the target of all the jokes. Now they need that little man, the stone mason, who can lay brinks. But David is irritated that he did not do what he said he would do to clean up his mess. And perhaps they did not keep his card. But the wall must go up, one way or another. It certainly keeps you humble.
While we were there, a man came to the door, saying that he was doing work for a neighbor and that David needed his help. So the next day, he rebuilt it and it looks good. Except he left all his stuff in David's wheelbarrow which he assure David he would come the next day to clear up his mess, which he never did. That is the end of chapter one.
Chapter Two: A few days ago. David was backing out of the driveway in his white truck. On the left side of the driveway is a brick wall, covering the trash cans. If you are parked directly in front of the garage, it is necessary to turn around the wall to get to the main driveway. Two other cars were in the parking area but David had plenty of space to get around the wall. He had done it hundreds of time. But this time he backed into the wall and knocked it down. Not the whole wall. Just many bricks. Well you know how pleased everyone was for David to hit the wall. He said the same thing as Allison had said, which was "I did not notice". He was as surprised as Allison. He thinks it was funny and I do too. Clearly, he was not paying attention. David is now the target of all the jokes. Now they need that little man, the stone mason, who can lay brinks. But David is irritated that he did not do what he said he would do to clean up his mess. And perhaps they did not keep his card. But the wall must go up, one way or another. It certainly keeps you humble.
Sunday, November 26, 2017
November 26, 2017. Madison, Mississippi. Objects.
Every object in a home has a history, usually known to only one person, the lady of the house. I receive much pleasure by using those objects and remembering where they came from and how the object became part of the home. The other evening we used Aunt Miriam's silver and enjoyed them. Today when I went for a walk, I wore my blue jacket, which kept me warm. I call it my walking jacket, even though it has never actually been mine. I took it from Andrew's closet many years ago.
One Christmas when the boys were in high school, I gave the jacket to Andrew for Christmas. The fabric is made of sweat pants material. The jacket comes to the middle of my legs so I bought it because it would be long enough for Andrew. It is navy blue and has buttons down the front and has no collar. It also can be pulled tight at the bottom and around the waist. And it has big pockets. Andrew thanked me for the jacket and hung it in his closet. And he never wore it. Not ever. When I asked about the jacket, he assured me that the jacket was fine and that he would certainly wear it. But he never did.
One day, after he went to college, I needed a jacket that would cover my bottom when I went walking so I borrowed the blue jacket. It is warm and comfortable but not heavy so the jacket got transferred to my coat closet. I have been wearing it for walks ever since and that was a long time ago. The jacket is still not fancy or stylish, which is probably why Andrew would never wear it. Now there is not another person in the world would ever know or care about that old blue jacket, but I know. And that pleases me.
One Christmas when the boys were in high school, I gave the jacket to Andrew for Christmas. The fabric is made of sweat pants material. The jacket comes to the middle of my legs so I bought it because it would be long enough for Andrew. It is navy blue and has buttons down the front and has no collar. It also can be pulled tight at the bottom and around the waist. And it has big pockets. Andrew thanked me for the jacket and hung it in his closet. And he never wore it. Not ever. When I asked about the jacket, he assured me that the jacket was fine and that he would certainly wear it. But he never did.
One day, after he went to college, I needed a jacket that would cover my bottom when I went walking so I borrowed the blue jacket. It is warm and comfortable but not heavy so the jacket got transferred to my coat closet. I have been wearing it for walks ever since and that was a long time ago. The jacket is still not fancy or stylish, which is probably why Andrew would never wear it. Now there is not another person in the world would ever know or care about that old blue jacket, but I know. And that pleases me.
Saturday, November 25, 2017
November 25, 2017. Madison, Mississippi. Traditions.
The older I get, the more I like traditions. Simple things, like drinking our sparkling juice from the silver glasses at our Thanksgiving dinner at Linda's home. I suspect those goblets were used by her parents and grandparents Thanksgiving dinners too. Lovely tradition.
And last evening, we used Aunt Miriam's silver. I have no idea where she got that silver because she was a Salvation Army officer her whole life but when she died, I ended up with her silver. I use it when ever we sit at the dining table and is a fine memory of my Aunt Miriam. I like that even though she and I were never close. She was a nurse and became a superintendent of Grace Hospitals, ending up in charge of all women services in Canada for the Salvation Army. And she was a bit of a snob. Once when Ken was an intern and I happened to be at Grace Hospital, she introduced me to the head of the medical board as Mrs. Doctor Ken Dickie, thus totally obliterating my real name. But she wanted that doctor to know that she had a niece who was married to a doctor. I just laughed. That was not a tradition that lasted.
Hockey Night in Canada has been a tradition with us for our whole life. Once I listening on the radio. Then eventually on the television, after my sister bought us a set with her first paycheck. We have been watching ever since, except when we lived in Texas when no hockey was on TV. Now there is a whole hockey channel so I can watch every night. But Saturday tradition stays alive. Tonight we are watching the Leafs play the Capitols. Our traditions continue of watching Hockey Night in Canada, except it is shown in the US too. PS. The Caps are winning.
And last evening, we used Aunt Miriam's silver. I have no idea where she got that silver because she was a Salvation Army officer her whole life but when she died, I ended up with her silver. I use it when ever we sit at the dining table and is a fine memory of my Aunt Miriam. I like that even though she and I were never close. She was a nurse and became a superintendent of Grace Hospitals, ending up in charge of all women services in Canada for the Salvation Army. And she was a bit of a snob. Once when Ken was an intern and I happened to be at Grace Hospital, she introduced me to the head of the medical board as Mrs. Doctor Ken Dickie, thus totally obliterating my real name. But she wanted that doctor to know that she had a niece who was married to a doctor. I just laughed. That was not a tradition that lasted.
Hockey Night in Canada has been a tradition with us for our whole life. Once I listening on the radio. Then eventually on the television, after my sister bought us a set with her first paycheck. We have been watching ever since, except when we lived in Texas when no hockey was on TV. Now there is a whole hockey channel so I can watch every night. But Saturday tradition stays alive. Tonight we are watching the Leafs play the Capitols. Our traditions continue of watching Hockey Night in Canada, except it is shown in the US too. PS. The Caps are winning.
Friday, November 24, 2017
November 24, 2017. Madison, Mississippi. 10 Years Old.
Today is Molly's birthday. She is now 10 years old. Molly announced to Christina that as she is now into double digits, she is close to a teenager, so she needed a big girl bedroom. No more pink little girl walls. Molly's birthday gift from Christina was to paint her walls a soft gray, appropriate for a big girl. In addition, Molly received a new bedspread, to get rid of her animal quilt. And I shopped for her at The Mississippi Craft Center, just down the road from us. I had such fun, buying her lovely objects, perfect for a big girl room, all hand made by Mississippi artisans.
We gave her a beautiful small hanging shelf, made of several types of wood. It is perfect for her small treasures and will serve her for a lifetime. All the rest of the gifts were breakable to be used on her shelf or dresser. She loved them all.
Her birthday dinner we held at our home. Pizza was Molly's choice. Linda came for the celebration. And Christina baked a cranberry almond cake, Molly's favorite, and mine too. Our party for seven was splendid. When everyone left, the kitchen was clean. We do appreciate Kate and Mary Frances, who are both good helpers. Molly left us a happy 10 year old, where tomorrow she will place her new objects into her new big girl bedroom. Before our meal, we each silently gave our own thanks to God for our good food, and for our Molly. For one night, we became Quakers. Being 10 is special and we all celebrated it together.
We gave her a beautiful small hanging shelf, made of several types of wood. It is perfect for her small treasures and will serve her for a lifetime. All the rest of the gifts were breakable to be used on her shelf or dresser. She loved them all.
Her birthday dinner we held at our home. Pizza was Molly's choice. Linda came for the celebration. And Christina baked a cranberry almond cake, Molly's favorite, and mine too. Our party for seven was splendid. When everyone left, the kitchen was clean. We do appreciate Kate and Mary Frances, who are both good helpers. Molly left us a happy 10 year old, where tomorrow she will place her new objects into her new big girl bedroom. Before our meal, we each silently gave our own thanks to God for our good food, and for our Molly. For one night, we became Quakers. Being 10 is special and we all celebrated it together.
Thursday, November 23, 2017
November 23, 2017. Madison, Mississippi. Thanksgiving.
Thanksgiving is the best holiday in the year, because you have few decisions. People go home to be with extended family and eat turkey. Before dinner, folks watch the parade, followed by the dog show. Before and after dinner, people watch football. Oops. This year, many people are boycotting the NFL. What will they do now I wonder.
Today we celebrated in the home of Linda Creath, Christina's Mother. Also around the table were Nelson and Katey Creath, and their children Harrison and Sophie. And of course, Kate, Mary Frances and Molly were there too. We had a lovely time. Instead of saying a blessing, Nelson read Psalm 100, a tradition from Katey's grandmother's home, which her family has adopted.
Katey and Christina orchestrated the dinner. Linda really wanted everyone at her home for Thanksgiving, so in order to lighten her load, Christina and Katey brought all the food. The grandchildren waited on the table and helped with the clean up. Linda set the table while I did nothing, which is one of the advantages of old age. Once again, we enjoyed the benefits of family. The food was wonderful of course, as was the conversation. Thanksgiving feasts are the best meal of the year.
Linda has a dog named Bella. She likes to be with the people so Katey hooked the dogs leash around her waist and the dog followed her everywhere she went. The dog was happy and stayed close by Katey. We did not even know the dog was following Katey, Bella stayed so close to her. It was a clever trick. Bella was no bother to anyone and was happy as a clam.
Today we celebrated in the home of Linda Creath, Christina's Mother. Also around the table were Nelson and Katey Creath, and their children Harrison and Sophie. And of course, Kate, Mary Frances and Molly were there too. We had a lovely time. Instead of saying a blessing, Nelson read Psalm 100, a tradition from Katey's grandmother's home, which her family has adopted.
Katey and Christina orchestrated the dinner. Linda really wanted everyone at her home for Thanksgiving, so in order to lighten her load, Christina and Katey brought all the food. The grandchildren waited on the table and helped with the clean up. Linda set the table while I did nothing, which is one of the advantages of old age. Once again, we enjoyed the benefits of family. The food was wonderful of course, as was the conversation. Thanksgiving feasts are the best meal of the year.
Linda has a dog named Bella. She likes to be with the people so Katey hooked the dogs leash around her waist and the dog followed her everywhere she went. The dog was happy and stayed close by Katey. We did not even know the dog was following Katey, Bella stayed so close to her. It was a clever trick. Bella was no bother to anyone and was happy as a clam.
Wednesday, November 22, 2017
November 22, 2017. Madison, Mississippi. Feeling Good.
Why do we feel good when our favorite teams win? It makes no real sense. Our income is not affected nor is our health, but for some reason, I always feel good when my teams win. In DC, the elevator conversation the morning after a Redskins loss was gloomy, The whole town was covered with a wet blanket. But when they won, the town was elated.
Little things often make me feel good. When I shake out the amount of tablets into my hand to be placed into my pill box which turns out to be the right number, I am elated. Silly but true. Once a week, the small convenience store sold good rye bread. The store was run by an older handicapped lady, and was located directly across from our apartment over the hardware store. After I returned from school, every Wednesday I stopped to buy a loaf of their good bread. I was disappointed if they had sold out and elated when I walked up the stairs with the bread. Silly but true. In truth, it did not matter a bit to me if we ate that bread.
Today we ate lunch with Christina and the girls. They indulge us by going out for lunch with us. We were celebrating the start of the festive season. And we ate at an excellent Italian restaurant. We enjoyed our lunch and felt good about it. I thing our family felt the same. Simple things make me feel good.
My observation over my life is that the little things in life bring great pleasure and make me feel good. For instance, the Nashville Predators have won 7 of their last 8 games. It makes no real difference in my life, but it makes me feel good. Interesting.
Little things often make me feel good. When I shake out the amount of tablets into my hand to be placed into my pill box which turns out to be the right number, I am elated. Silly but true. Once a week, the small convenience store sold good rye bread. The store was run by an older handicapped lady, and was located directly across from our apartment over the hardware store. After I returned from school, every Wednesday I stopped to buy a loaf of their good bread. I was disappointed if they had sold out and elated when I walked up the stairs with the bread. Silly but true. In truth, it did not matter a bit to me if we ate that bread.
Today we ate lunch with Christina and the girls. They indulge us by going out for lunch with us. We were celebrating the start of the festive season. And we ate at an excellent Italian restaurant. We enjoyed our lunch and felt good about it. I thing our family felt the same. Simple things make me feel good.
My observation over my life is that the little things in life bring great pleasure and make me feel good. For instance, the Nashville Predators have won 7 of their last 8 games. It makes no real difference in my life, but it makes me feel good. Interesting.
Tuesday, November 21, 2017
November 21, 2017. Madison, Mississippi. The Benefits.
The surgery and recovery for both of us was traumatic. But three things were of benefit. The first good thing that happened was the kindnesses of our landlords. We had just moved into the second floor of a home in North Toronto, owned by the older folks living on the first floor. They were kindness personified. She made nourishing soups for Ken and encouraged him to sit in the sun in the garden. She would often leave dinner for us on the stairs. They were from Hungary and were Jewish and she took over Ken's care. To this day, I remember their kindnesses and smile.
Our friend Dave S. was a travel agent. I have no idea whose idea it was, but to assist Ken's recovery, Dave booked us on a freighter cruise from Montreal, stopping in Bermuda and at least a dozen Caribbean Islands. The trip was wonderful. Ken even enjoyed swimming in the beautiful warm water. After I had completed my teaching job for the summer, we took the train to Montreal to board our ship. We have yet to take another freighter cruise but at the time it was perfect. The good food and sea air helped Ken to gain weight. And we loved the islands.
The third benefit of Ken's surgery was the decision to take his residency in Texas. The Internist recommend to Ken to move someplace warm. "Your health will be better in warm air", said he, so we decided to move to Galveston, where we lived for 6 years and loved. Today at lunch, Ken and I discussed where we might have gone for his residency, had Ken not had the surgery. No telling of course, but certainly Texas got into our blood.
Trials come to everyone but gold can always be found if you look carefully. And we did.
Our friend Dave S. was a travel agent. I have no idea whose idea it was, but to assist Ken's recovery, Dave booked us on a freighter cruise from Montreal, stopping in Bermuda and at least a dozen Caribbean Islands. The trip was wonderful. Ken even enjoyed swimming in the beautiful warm water. After I had completed my teaching job for the summer, we took the train to Montreal to board our ship. We have yet to take another freighter cruise but at the time it was perfect. The good food and sea air helped Ken to gain weight. And we loved the islands.
The third benefit of Ken's surgery was the decision to take his residency in Texas. The Internist recommend to Ken to move someplace warm. "Your health will be better in warm air", said he, so we decided to move to Galveston, where we lived for 6 years and loved. Today at lunch, Ken and I discussed where we might have gone for his residency, had Ken not had the surgery. No telling of course, but certainly Texas got into our blood.
Trials come to everyone but gold can always be found if you look carefully. And we did.
Monday, November 20, 2017
November 20, 2017. Madison, Mississippi. Adversity.
I will not bore anyone with my list of events that were not to my liking. But surely, my list is longer than the average bear. I count 12 situations that caused me difficulty. Even I was surprised. at it's number. The most important fact is that both Ken and I survived. And I have been able to help others through difficult times so every difficulty came with an upside.
My system of dealing with adversity has not changed over the years. I will use the second incident as an example. Ken graduated from medical school in 1963. He was to intern at St. Michaels Hospital in Toronto. One the first day of his internship, he asked his room mate to listen to his chest. He was seen by the specialist. He was to be admitted immediately to the hospital but first he came home to get me.
When my Mother and I returned from a wedding, Ken was at our apartment. I was to take him to the hospital to get him admitted for observation. Ken had major surgery and was in the hospital for 3 weeks, followed by 6 weeks recovery at home. I was teaching folk dance for the summer so every day I stopped by the hospital after work and stayed until bedtime. Ken was uncomfortable in the hospital and even more so at home. We battled on. But it was not an easy time.
My solution was to deal with Ken's illness only when there was something I could do to be helpful. The rest of the time I kept my focus on my task at hand. I did not allow Ken's dire situation to overtake my life. I did everything I could to be helpful but when there was nothing I could do, I turned to other activities. This required discipline. But it worked. Tomorrow I will tell of the benefits accrued from that surgery and recovery.
My system of dealing with adversity has not changed over the years. I will use the second incident as an example. Ken graduated from medical school in 1963. He was to intern at St. Michaels Hospital in Toronto. One the first day of his internship, he asked his room mate to listen to his chest. He was seen by the specialist. He was to be admitted immediately to the hospital but first he came home to get me.
When my Mother and I returned from a wedding, Ken was at our apartment. I was to take him to the hospital to get him admitted for observation. Ken had major surgery and was in the hospital for 3 weeks, followed by 6 weeks recovery at home. I was teaching folk dance for the summer so every day I stopped by the hospital after work and stayed until bedtime. Ken was uncomfortable in the hospital and even more so at home. We battled on. But it was not an easy time.
My solution was to deal with Ken's illness only when there was something I could do to be helpful. The rest of the time I kept my focus on my task at hand. I did not allow Ken's dire situation to overtake my life. I did everything I could to be helpful but when there was nothing I could do, I turned to other activities. This required discipline. But it worked. Tomorrow I will tell of the benefits accrued from that surgery and recovery.
Sunday, November 19, 2017
November 19, 2017. Madison, Mississippi. Christmas Spirit.
Our outside lights are shining brightly, which has put me in the Christmas Spirit. I read through the cards from Christmas 2016 and enjoyed them thoroughly. But I still wish folks would say their full name. I have several "Sue and Bill", and several names I can not read due to poor writing. Eventually, I figured them all out and checked off my list. My observation is that many people have stopped sending Christmas cards, which I think is a shame. I do receive many electronic cards, which I enjoy too but the best is rereading last years cards. Now my question is...why don't those old friends send cards? Are they lazy or cheap, and do they not wish to say hello to me once a year?
In addition, I am beginning to put out decorations. The limited number of boxes are on the dining room table, ready to be placed around the house. All the rest of my decorations were distributed between the two families but I have a few that I used in the condo. The good thing about owning just a few decorations is that it takes 30 minutes to put ALL the decorations out. Molly is having her birthday dinner here on Friday so I want to surprise her.
My Christmas cards for 2017 are out and ready to be written. I remember many years when my cards went out in the new year, but I have plenty of time now so I am getting organized. First I stick on the return address label. Next I sign the cards and address the envelopes. Finally I write a note to everyone. I am getting geared up, ready to start. The Christmas Spirit has descended.
In addition, I am beginning to put out decorations. The limited number of boxes are on the dining room table, ready to be placed around the house. All the rest of my decorations were distributed between the two families but I have a few that I used in the condo. The good thing about owning just a few decorations is that it takes 30 minutes to put ALL the decorations out. Molly is having her birthday dinner here on Friday so I want to surprise her.
My Christmas cards for 2017 are out and ready to be written. I remember many years when my cards went out in the new year, but I have plenty of time now so I am getting organized. First I stick on the return address label. Next I sign the cards and address the envelopes. Finally I write a note to everyone. I am getting geared up, ready to start. The Christmas Spirit has descended.
Saturday, November 18, 2017
November 18, 2017. Madison, Mississippi. Christmas Lights.
Ken loves outdoor Christmas lights in our homes. "The more the merrier," said Ken. But since he has become somewhat infirm, our home the last two nights has gone without the bright lights of Christmas that he loves. Last Spring, when Bradley the outside lighting man was here, I asked if he would consider putting up Christmas lights for us. He laughed and said that his winter business is installing Christmas lights for people just like us, so he already had a program. Ken and I booked him on the spot. And in addition, we asked him to go by and make a plan for Christina and the girls.
Just before we left for Texas, he came with his book and we discussed our options. He uses all white lights so I asked him to add colored lights for Molly. And we signed a two year contract. He uses his own lights and he installs and takes down and stores everything. The biggest expense is the first year so he insists on a two year commitment from us, which seemed fair. In addition, we wanted the lights installed to be turned on right after Thanksgiving. That was the plan. We were happy and so were Christina and the girls.
This week Bradley came by to install our outdoor lights. He will return with 5 wreaths for the windows. The lights are great. We decided to turn them on immediately and not wait until Thanksgiving. But the best part is that the girls are excited with their lights. He outlined their whole roof as well as blanketing the hedge with colored lights. Molly is thrilled. And so is Ken.
Just before we left for Texas, he came with his book and we discussed our options. He uses all white lights so I asked him to add colored lights for Molly. And we signed a two year contract. He uses his own lights and he installs and takes down and stores everything. The biggest expense is the first year so he insists on a two year commitment from us, which seemed fair. In addition, we wanted the lights installed to be turned on right after Thanksgiving. That was the plan. We were happy and so were Christina and the girls.
This week Bradley came by to install our outdoor lights. He will return with 5 wreaths for the windows. The lights are great. We decided to turn them on immediately and not wait until Thanksgiving. But the best part is that the girls are excited with their lights. He outlined their whole roof as well as blanketing the hedge with colored lights. Molly is thrilled. And so is Ken.
Friday, November 17, 2017
November 17, 207. Madison, Mississippi. Adversity.
Mary Frances would like me to tell her if I had significant adversity in my life. I just laughed. Then I made a list. If you were to ask me if I had been lucky in my life I would have said yes. I have been fortunate. But my list of adversity is long so what am I missing? MF also would like to know how I coped, so I have been thinking about that. I had good role models in my mother and grandmother.
My grandmother Houghton had 5 children. Her first grandchild died when he was 8, from some childhood infection. Any time she spoke about that grandchild she spoke about how grateful she was that they all had him for that period of time. No moaning or groaning or feeling sorry for herself. I have a picture with her with that child on the bathroom wall in Nova Scotia so I see it all the time, which reminds me to be grateful.
A Salvation Army officer was visiting our home. She was not typical in that she was glum. She was married and had no children and she and her husband were stationed in Vancouver. After she left, I asked Mother why she was so unpleasant. My mother told me that years ago, her baby died during delivery and she had never gotten over it. My Mother commented that the lady wore the death of her child like a crown of thorns, constantly reminding herself of what she had lost. My mother was not impressed. And I remembered and learned to put adversity behind you, and be grateful.
My grandmother Houghton had 5 children. Her first grandchild died when he was 8, from some childhood infection. Any time she spoke about that grandchild she spoke about how grateful she was that they all had him for that period of time. No moaning or groaning or feeling sorry for herself. I have a picture with her with that child on the bathroom wall in Nova Scotia so I see it all the time, which reminds me to be grateful.
A Salvation Army officer was visiting our home. She was not typical in that she was glum. She was married and had no children and she and her husband were stationed in Vancouver. After she left, I asked Mother why she was so unpleasant. My mother told me that years ago, her baby died during delivery and she had never gotten over it. My Mother commented that the lady wore the death of her child like a crown of thorns, constantly reminding herself of what she had lost. My mother was not impressed. And I remembered and learned to put adversity behind you, and be grateful.
Thursday, November 16, 2017
November 16, 2017. Madison, Mississippi. Mr.&Mrs.St.Denis.
The Mr. and Mrs. St. Denis lived next door to us in Vancouver. They were splendid neighbors. He was a Presbyterian minister and my Mother and Mr. St.Denis sparred often concerning beliefs. The Presbyterians had different ideas from the Salvation Army so their discussions were always lively. I don't know if the organization still keeps this idea but one item was the prohibition of women preaching in the Presbyterian church, where as the Salvation Army was way ahead of the curve. My Mother was a better preacher than my Father, according to my Father. Another bone of contention was predestination. They discussed. They never argued.
They kept a key to our house. Many times after walking home from school I would realize that I had forgotten my key. I also always needed to go to the bathroom. I would knock on their back door. When the door was opened, I would burst into their home and run directly to their bathroom. Then I would get the key. It became a joke, whenever I knocked on their door even if I was there to borrow a cup of flour.
One afternoon, Mother and I were having tea with them, along with a parishioner. She wanted to tell Mr. St. Denis about another member of the church who was not doing well. She described the lady and said she had a lump on her neck, which she showed with her hand. "This poor lady has a concubine on her neck", is what she said. No one smiled or said not a word, but finally, my Mother agreed with her that having a concubine on the ladies neck would certainly not be good. Everyone at the table behaved themselves until the lady left. We have joked about it ever since.
Mr. and Mrs. St. Denis had no children of their own and always enjoyed our family. They remain vivid in my mind, even though we moved in 1953. We loved them and they loved us. Good neighbors indeed.
They kept a key to our house. Many times after walking home from school I would realize that I had forgotten my key. I also always needed to go to the bathroom. I would knock on their back door. When the door was opened, I would burst into their home and run directly to their bathroom. Then I would get the key. It became a joke, whenever I knocked on their door even if I was there to borrow a cup of flour.
One afternoon, Mother and I were having tea with them, along with a parishioner. She wanted to tell Mr. St. Denis about another member of the church who was not doing well. She described the lady and said she had a lump on her neck, which she showed with her hand. "This poor lady has a concubine on her neck", is what she said. No one smiled or said not a word, but finally, my Mother agreed with her that having a concubine on the ladies neck would certainly not be good. Everyone at the table behaved themselves until the lady left. We have joked about it ever since.
Mr. and Mrs. St. Denis had no children of their own and always enjoyed our family. They remain vivid in my mind, even though we moved in 1953. We loved them and they loved us. Good neighbors indeed.
Wednesday, November 15, 2017
November 15, 2017. Madison, Mississippi. The Human Parade.
Watching people today was similar to watching people walk up and down the beach, except today everyone was wearing clothes. As we were waiting for Ken to see the Internist, I started to look at all the people passing by. Ken was looking at his phone. Soon I interrupted him so he could watch too and we did. We guessed the weight of the people walking by and we tried to figure out what was the matter with them. We were in the Medical Pavilion of the Mississippi Medical Center so everyone I saw was visiting the doctor.
On the beach, I seldom see anyone over weight. Perhaps fat people stay out of a bathing suit. But at the medical Center today we saw many obese people. We saw folks who needed an extra wide wheel chair. We saw many couple who were both huge. On the other hand, I saw lots and lots of normal people and some who were skinny. But at least 30% of the people who walked past us as we waited weighed too much. I immediately decided to get rid of my excess flesh but so far have done nothing about it.
The conclusion, after watching all these people, is the same one I came to after watching the walkers on the beach. Being too skinny is not good, nor is being fat. But erring on the side of slim is better than being too heavy. This is true whether or not a person is wearing clothes. But the amazing thing to me is that so many people are just right. The human parade is unfailingly a marvel.
On the beach, I seldom see anyone over weight. Perhaps fat people stay out of a bathing suit. But at the medical Center today we saw many obese people. We saw folks who needed an extra wide wheel chair. We saw many couple who were both huge. On the other hand, I saw lots and lots of normal people and some who were skinny. But at least 30% of the people who walked past us as we waited weighed too much. I immediately decided to get rid of my excess flesh but so far have done nothing about it.
The conclusion, after watching all these people, is the same one I came to after watching the walkers on the beach. Being too skinny is not good, nor is being fat. But erring on the side of slim is better than being too heavy. This is true whether or not a person is wearing clothes. But the amazing thing to me is that so many people are just right. The human parade is unfailingly a marvel.
Tuesday, November 14, 2017
November 14, 2017. Madison, Mississippi. Children.
Sunday at brunch, half the tables at Babalu held children. As we were leaving, families arrived on their way from church. And all the folks arriving had children with them, dressed up in their Sunday best and looking like angels. I noted to Ken how pleasant it was in Jackson to always see lots of children. Where ever we go, we see children, and we like that.
In Nova Scotia at Western Head, most residents are retired so the only children we see are visitors. Even in town or restaurants we do not see many children and I miss them. It was not until Sunday morning that I noticed how different Mississippi is from Nova Scotia. I have not seen the statistics but I bet the number of babies born per people is higher in Mississippi than in Nova Scotia.
Families in the south are important so having babies is desirable. Also most folks who live here were born here so extended families are close at hand to help. Most people attend church in Jackson, where the activities for children is extensive. I expect raising children in Jackson is easier than many other places in North America. Whatever the reasons, watching the children in the restaurants brings me great pleasure. One other point: children are taught to be polite in Mississippi which is another reason seeing the children is pleasant. This is one more reason we enjoy living here in Mississippi.
In Nova Scotia at Western Head, most residents are retired so the only children we see are visitors. Even in town or restaurants we do not see many children and I miss them. It was not until Sunday morning that I noticed how different Mississippi is from Nova Scotia. I have not seen the statistics but I bet the number of babies born per people is higher in Mississippi than in Nova Scotia.
Families in the south are important so having babies is desirable. Also most folks who live here were born here so extended families are close at hand to help. Most people attend church in Jackson, where the activities for children is extensive. I expect raising children in Jackson is easier than many other places in North America. Whatever the reasons, watching the children in the restaurants brings me great pleasure. One other point: children are taught to be polite in Mississippi which is another reason seeing the children is pleasant. This is one more reason we enjoy living here in Mississippi.
Monday, November 13, 2017
November 13, 2017. Madison, Mississippi. Beauty.
I was fortunate to be born not beautiful. There was nothing the matter with how I looked when I was young but I certainly was not beautiful. Most folks would not consider this an asset but I learned that I was not going to get ahead in life with my looks. Of course I was taught that "beauty is only skin deep", and that "what you put into your head is more important that what you put on your face". I learned early that my personality, energy, enthusiasm and intellect would stand me in good stead...and I was correct.
At high school in Toronto, my friend Mary was beautiful and talented. She was a top student and she was the end chair in the orchestra in the violin section. Her hair was white blond and her skin was clear. She was beautiful and she was my friend. But I would not trade for her life. She never dated. Every weekend she was asked out a dozen times but she always refused. The boys wanted to go out with her to brag, not to be with her. It had happened once so she never did it again. I on the other hand had an active social life. I have always wondered what happened to her.
Looking old has given me no stress. I looked fine at 80 just as I did at 60 or 40 but people struggle with their looks as they get older and go to great lengths to stay younger with the result that they look ridiculous. The beauty at 20 is not the beauty at 60 but as I was not beautiful at 20 and I felt fine, I had no problem with how I looked at 60 or 80. You can see, not being born beautiful was a major asset to me. It was true when I was young and is true now that I am old. I am just OK.
At high school in Toronto, my friend Mary was beautiful and talented. She was a top student and she was the end chair in the orchestra in the violin section. Her hair was white blond and her skin was clear. She was beautiful and she was my friend. But I would not trade for her life. She never dated. Every weekend she was asked out a dozen times but she always refused. The boys wanted to go out with her to brag, not to be with her. It had happened once so she never did it again. I on the other hand had an active social life. I have always wondered what happened to her.
Looking old has given me no stress. I looked fine at 80 just as I did at 60 or 40 but people struggle with their looks as they get older and go to great lengths to stay younger with the result that they look ridiculous. The beauty at 20 is not the beauty at 60 but as I was not beautiful at 20 and I felt fine, I had no problem with how I looked at 60 or 80. You can see, not being born beautiful was a major asset to me. It was true when I was young and is true now that I am old. I am just OK.
Sunday, November 12, 2017
November 12, 2017. Madison, Mississippi. Decisions.
My friend Sarah T. set up my blog after a question from me. When I was reading through the Buckley?Houghton archives the previous summer, I came upon a letter written by my Grandmother Houghton, and sent to my mother. In the letter, my grandmother describes her feeling of freedom. She was on the train from Vancouver to Winnipeg to join her daughter, my Aunt Miriam, shortly after the death of Grandpa Houghton. All she was taking was one small trunk. She was overjoyed. I wished I could ask her about one hundred questions but of course, by then she had died and even though she lived with us for part of each year, I did not ask the right questions. After I told Sarah my goal, my question to Sarah was how could I do it. And she figured it out. I am still using the same system.
My goal with my wee web log was to allow the 7 grandchildren to find out how Ken and I got from here to there. Now they may never be inquisitive enough to care but I had wished my grandmother had kept her comings and goings so I could have picker her brain. My son David thinks that no one will ever read my blog in the future and I agree. But if anyone wanted to know, they would be able to get to know us through my blog. The goal for the blog was for 10 years.
Now comes the decision. My 80th birthday is coming up, on December 6, which is the 10th anniversary of my blog and I think the grandchildren will be able to figure us out. But what has happened in the past 10 years is that friends and family read my blog as a way to find out where we are and what we are doing. In addition, I am older than most of my friends, so I am urged to keep going as a way to help others to figure out how to handle the journey through my old age. Today, my friend Phyllis suggested that another 10 years should be in order. So I must make a decision. And soon. I will soon be 80.
My goal with my wee web log was to allow the 7 grandchildren to find out how Ken and I got from here to there. Now they may never be inquisitive enough to care but I had wished my grandmother had kept her comings and goings so I could have picker her brain. My son David thinks that no one will ever read my blog in the future and I agree. But if anyone wanted to know, they would be able to get to know us through my blog. The goal for the blog was for 10 years.
Now comes the decision. My 80th birthday is coming up, on December 6, which is the 10th anniversary of my blog and I think the grandchildren will be able to figure us out. But what has happened in the past 10 years is that friends and family read my blog as a way to find out where we are and what we are doing. In addition, I am older than most of my friends, so I am urged to keep going as a way to help others to figure out how to handle the journey through my old age. Today, my friend Phyllis suggested that another 10 years should be in order. So I must make a decision. And soon. I will soon be 80.
Saturday, November 11, 2017
November 11, 2017. Madison, Mississippi. Ken.
Friends always ask me about Ken, subtly suggesting that I seldom mention him in my wee web logs and that perhaps I should say something about his general health and welfare. Tonight is the time.
When people ask me about Ken I always say that he is fine. But of course he is not fine at all. I really mean that considering his diseases, he is fine. Ken objects when he hear me say that he is fine but he is not sure what I could or should say. His Parkinson's disease he thinks is progressing but he says he handles it better. His symptoms are his lack of balance. To compensate, he uses the walker 100% of the time both inside and out. And he is careful. His lung disease gets no better. His coughing continues unabated. His left shoulder is almost frozen and hurts. For some reason he has pain in some place every now and then, so he uses lots of Ibuprofen.
On the other hand, he retains his sense of humor. And he never complains. His head works well and he gets things done around the house and yard, which pleases him. Fortunately, he is able to drive although he is waiting for the autonomous automobiles. He still does all our accounting and investments so he keeps his head churning. And you know he orders all our stuff on line.
Today Ken filled all the bird feeders and hung them in the yard including the humming bird feeder. We have several feeders both front and back so it is quite a task. Earlier in the week he cleaned the fountain. He reads and listens to audio books all the time. In between bouts of activities, he takes short rests. So I would say that he is fine, getting things done and doing as well as he is able. And he enjoys our life together. He never expected to be 81 so he is pleased. Now he says he is heading to 100. So Ken is fine. That is my story and I will stick with it.
When people ask me about Ken I always say that he is fine. But of course he is not fine at all. I really mean that considering his diseases, he is fine. Ken objects when he hear me say that he is fine but he is not sure what I could or should say. His Parkinson's disease he thinks is progressing but he says he handles it better. His symptoms are his lack of balance. To compensate, he uses the walker 100% of the time both inside and out. And he is careful. His lung disease gets no better. His coughing continues unabated. His left shoulder is almost frozen and hurts. For some reason he has pain in some place every now and then, so he uses lots of Ibuprofen.
On the other hand, he retains his sense of humor. And he never complains. His head works well and he gets things done around the house and yard, which pleases him. Fortunately, he is able to drive although he is waiting for the autonomous automobiles. He still does all our accounting and investments so he keeps his head churning. And you know he orders all our stuff on line.
Today Ken filled all the bird feeders and hung them in the yard including the humming bird feeder. We have several feeders both front and back so it is quite a task. Earlier in the week he cleaned the fountain. He reads and listens to audio books all the time. In between bouts of activities, he takes short rests. So I would say that he is fine, getting things done and doing as well as he is able. And he enjoys our life together. He never expected to be 81 so he is pleased. Now he says he is heading to 100. So Ken is fine. That is my story and I will stick with it.
Friday, November 10, 2017
November 10, 2017. Madison, Mississippi. The Moon.
Something good comes from everything, if you look hard enough. Last evening, I went to bed a bit earlier than normal, but I stayed awake. My legs were not hurting. I just stayed on duty, so I reviewed all the reasons why I was still awake. And nothing made sense. I had no coffee at lunch. Ken had given me a box of dark chocolate truffles so perhaps I ate one or two late in the day, thus keeping me awake from the caffeine in the chocolate. And I made lists in my mind of things I needed to do before the end of the year. I was not restless. I was just awake.
At 2:00 I opened my eyes and looked out to the lake. From my spot in the bed, without even sitting up, I look at the reservoir, filtered through the trees. I spotted a bright light in the sky and finally decided that I was looking at a half moon. It was bright and beautiful, with the moonlight making a path across the water. I wandered around the house in the dark looking for the best view. Since we have no hot tub here in Mississippi, we never get to see the night sky but here I was watching keenly as the moon shone in the night sky. The sight was magnificent and certainly worth staying awake.
After spending time looking at the moon and the water, I took 2 Ibuprofen, drank a glass of water, visited the bathroom and went to bed. And promptly went to sleep. Magic.
At 2:00 I opened my eyes and looked out to the lake. From my spot in the bed, without even sitting up, I look at the reservoir, filtered through the trees. I spotted a bright light in the sky and finally decided that I was looking at a half moon. It was bright and beautiful, with the moonlight making a path across the water. I wandered around the house in the dark looking for the best view. Since we have no hot tub here in Mississippi, we never get to see the night sky but here I was watching keenly as the moon shone in the night sky. The sight was magnificent and certainly worth staying awake.
After spending time looking at the moon and the water, I took 2 Ibuprofen, drank a glass of water, visited the bathroom and went to bed. And promptly went to sleep. Magic.
Thursday, November 9, 2017
November 9, 2017. Madison, Mississippi. Appointments.
I have learned that one appointment with a doctor always leads to another appointment. By now I should be ready but I am not. This week is a perfect example. My expectation was that my three appointments were check ups and I would be finished. But not so quick. I have an additional appointment with the Oncologist to check my blood levels. after I have been on Ibrance for two weeks. And today, a routine check with the eye surgeon had led me to meet him again in a week.
My right high showed high pressures so he cut two stitches from the surgery, plus give me a needle in the eye socket. Now I must return in a week to check my pressures again. The eye surgeon has changed his practice and now is affiliated with a large group on N.State Street near Baptist Hospital. I like him so followed to his new office. But it is hike to get there so although I appreciate his expertise, I do not really want to visit him so often.
The same has been true for Ken. At the Dermatologist last week she took 4 biopsies. Two are malignant so Ken must make an appointment with a surgeon. In turn he will require Ken to return at least twice after the surgery. The appointments are never ending apparently. But what can you do? We just grin and bear it and are actually grateful for the care we receive from these good doctors. If we had our druthers, we would enjoy ourselves at home in stead of attending our unending string of appointments. Amazing really.
My right high showed high pressures so he cut two stitches from the surgery, plus give me a needle in the eye socket. Now I must return in a week to check my pressures again. The eye surgeon has changed his practice and now is affiliated with a large group on N.State Street near Baptist Hospital. I like him so followed to his new office. But it is hike to get there so although I appreciate his expertise, I do not really want to visit him so often.
The same has been true for Ken. At the Dermatologist last week she took 4 biopsies. Two are malignant so Ken must make an appointment with a surgeon. In turn he will require Ken to return at least twice after the surgery. The appointments are never ending apparently. But what can you do? We just grin and bear it and are actually grateful for the care we receive from these good doctors. If we had our druthers, we would enjoy ourselves at home in stead of attending our unending string of appointments. Amazing really.
Wednesday, November 8, 2017
November 8, 2017. Madison, Mississippi. Television.
I often hear folks say that they never watch television. My response to myself is to think that they are missing a lot. With so many stations available, much you see is junk and not worth watching, but if you look carefully, you can find gems.
When we first arrived, I watched Aerial America on the Smithsonian channel. They give a history of the state in addition to the present situation. And the pictures are incredible. I watched Connecticut and learned more than I ever knew about the place. The next day I watched Aerial New Zealand which was really beautiful and a reminder of our visit in 2014.
Tonight for an hour I watched the National Geographic station, which was showing a year on the most northerly island of Japan, Haikido. The history, the animals and the people were all presented, in beautiful photographs. The hour was magical.
My friend Marilyn is pretty much housebound but she is enjoying herself with her television and her books and her friends. Without television, life would be more difficult for her. The same is true for me. I use television when I need a break for my eyes. And I am never disappointed with what I find. A few days ago I watched and listened to a bit of an old fashioned hour of gospel music, where I found of all places on PBS. I loved it. All my favorite old gospel songs were there for me to sing along. When people tell me that television is terrible just know they are wrong. But you must search for the gems.
When we first arrived, I watched Aerial America on the Smithsonian channel. They give a history of the state in addition to the present situation. And the pictures are incredible. I watched Connecticut and learned more than I ever knew about the place. The next day I watched Aerial New Zealand which was really beautiful and a reminder of our visit in 2014.
Tonight for an hour I watched the National Geographic station, which was showing a year on the most northerly island of Japan, Haikido. The history, the animals and the people were all presented, in beautiful photographs. The hour was magical.
My friend Marilyn is pretty much housebound but she is enjoying herself with her television and her books and her friends. Without television, life would be more difficult for her. The same is true for me. I use television when I need a break for my eyes. And I am never disappointed with what I find. A few days ago I watched and listened to a bit of an old fashioned hour of gospel music, where I found of all places on PBS. I loved it. All my favorite old gospel songs were there for me to sing along. When people tell me that television is terrible just know they are wrong. But you must search for the gems.
Tuesday, November 7, 2017
November 7, 2017. Madison, Mississippi. Ibrance.
Here we go again. My scans came back with cancer spots on my bones so I am once again beginning a series of Ibrance. It worked before so one could expect it will again. The spots are small but definitely seen in the scans, which I had yesterday. After the scans I had a conversation with the technician, the same young man who took the scans in the past. My question to him was, "How many times are we going to meet like this?" He laughed and said, "probably many." and we both laughed. In my mind, I was thinking that I could talk Dr. Sheehan into just one scan a year, but now that I have more cancer in the bones, I am sure I will see that young man again.
The issue with Ibrance is the impact on blood cells. It was not until I stopped Ibrance that my blood counts went up, so now I must, once again, limit my time in public. But we do not go out much anyway. My routine will be drawing blood regularly and to have more frequent scans. Already I must see the Oncologist in two weeks to check my blood counts. And just before we go to Mexico I must have a scan. And tonight I begin Ibrance, my old friend.
My observation of the doctors and nurses is that they expect the cancer to come back, which is why they insist on scans regularly. Just last week I was discussing it with Christina. The doctors were right. And here we go again. Now that I have down that path before, I feel sure life will be easier. I am counting on it.
The issue with Ibrance is the impact on blood cells. It was not until I stopped Ibrance that my blood counts went up, so now I must, once again, limit my time in public. But we do not go out much anyway. My routine will be drawing blood regularly and to have more frequent scans. Already I must see the Oncologist in two weeks to check my blood counts. And just before we go to Mexico I must have a scan. And tonight I begin Ibrance, my old friend.
My observation of the doctors and nurses is that they expect the cancer to come back, which is why they insist on scans regularly. Just last week I was discussing it with Christina. The doctors were right. And here we go again. Now that I have down that path before, I feel sure life will be easier. I am counting on it.
Monday, November 6, 2017
November 6, 2017. Madison, Mississippi. Braun Genius.
Even I can not believe it. I am the proud owner of a Braun Oral B Genius Toothbrush. So far I have not used it properly because I just clean my teeth. But when I figure out the system, I will be able to have my tooth brushing prowess recorded in my cell phone, where it will tell me if I properly brushed in all four quadrants. And for the proper times too.
Ken ordered me a new electric toothbrush on line. He ordered the newest and the best. When the box arrived, I removed all parts and laid them out on the counter by my sink. And I tried to read the direction. First thing was the number of pieces to assemble. And the directions were so small that I could not read the words, so I gave up. Sometime through the night, my toothbrush was assembled for me and I brushed my teeth. I could not find one of the pieces I had seen on the counter so I asked Ken. He told me that the round white device has been attached to the mirror in front of my sink. When I brush, I must stand in front of this device, into which I must place my cell phone. Ken reports that if you lean over, a pink signal on the side of this round cell phone holder will alert you to stand up.
When I have finished brushing, I am to check the app. in my phone to find out if I have done a good job with my teeth. Now I will soon be 80 and have been adequately brushing all my life. Now I will be told that I must do a better job. Perhaps this might just be a bit too much information for this old lady, even if I do like the sound of owning a genius toothbrush!!
Ken ordered me a new electric toothbrush on line. He ordered the newest and the best. When the box arrived, I removed all parts and laid them out on the counter by my sink. And I tried to read the direction. First thing was the number of pieces to assemble. And the directions were so small that I could not read the words, so I gave up. Sometime through the night, my toothbrush was assembled for me and I brushed my teeth. I could not find one of the pieces I had seen on the counter so I asked Ken. He told me that the round white device has been attached to the mirror in front of my sink. When I brush, I must stand in front of this device, into which I must place my cell phone. Ken reports that if you lean over, a pink signal on the side of this round cell phone holder will alert you to stand up.
When I have finished brushing, I am to check the app. in my phone to find out if I have done a good job with my teeth. Now I will soon be 80 and have been adequately brushing all my life. Now I will be told that I must do a better job. Perhaps this might just be a bit too much information for this old lady, even if I do like the sound of owning a genius toothbrush!!
Sunday, November 5, 2017
November 5, 2017. Madison, Texas. Pleasure.
I hope the girls enjoy our brunches as much as we do. I always suspect that they are humoring us and are just being polite. Ken and I enjoy seeing the girls and Christina every Sunday and they in turn seem to enjoy going to fancy restaurants and eating good food. And we have a good time too.
Today we had brunch at Anjou, the french restaurant in the Renaissance. Excellent service and good food along with white linen table cloths are generally a hit. Today was the first brunch since we have arrived so we all felt festive. As Mary Frances was not in the vote to select Anjou, we have asked her to select next weeks brunch. Her ideas are generally excellent so I will be interested with her selection.
Today, Kate reported on her practical nursing education. Last week she learned and practiced inserting catheters. But only on rubber dummies. Still, she told us that the attempt ended with water spewing everywhere. She was grateful it was not on a real person. Next week she will spend 3 day at Baptist Hospital. They tell her that she will actually be doing things on real people. She is excited, and nervous. So far she has given shots to an orange and withdrawn fake insulin from a bottle. She reported a bent needle which is not good.
Mary Frances is feeling good about University next year. Her application to Princeton has been submitted. They will respond on December 15. She has been accepted into the scholars program at Mississippi State. The first acceptance is the best because a student can relax and then make real choices. If MF does not get into Princeton. she will apply to other schools but at the moment, she will sit tight and try to pay no attention to University.
Molly is taking gymnastics. She loves it and can actually do a cartwheel. The young man who teaches the class is enthusiastic and encouraging and makes everything lots of fun. And she will play basketball this winter at school. Molly likes to be active.
Today was the first of our weekly family brunches. The tradition is a good one to all, but perhaps most to the oldsters. We enjoy them the most. They bring us great pleasure.
Today we had brunch at Anjou, the french restaurant in the Renaissance. Excellent service and good food along with white linen table cloths are generally a hit. Today was the first brunch since we have arrived so we all felt festive. As Mary Frances was not in the vote to select Anjou, we have asked her to select next weeks brunch. Her ideas are generally excellent so I will be interested with her selection.
Today, Kate reported on her practical nursing education. Last week she learned and practiced inserting catheters. But only on rubber dummies. Still, she told us that the attempt ended with water spewing everywhere. She was grateful it was not on a real person. Next week she will spend 3 day at Baptist Hospital. They tell her that she will actually be doing things on real people. She is excited, and nervous. So far she has given shots to an orange and withdrawn fake insulin from a bottle. She reported a bent needle which is not good.
Mary Frances is feeling good about University next year. Her application to Princeton has been submitted. They will respond on December 15. She has been accepted into the scholars program at Mississippi State. The first acceptance is the best because a student can relax and then make real choices. If MF does not get into Princeton. she will apply to other schools but at the moment, she will sit tight and try to pay no attention to University.
Molly is taking gymnastics. She loves it and can actually do a cartwheel. The young man who teaches the class is enthusiastic and encouraging and makes everything lots of fun. And she will play basketball this winter at school. Molly likes to be active.
Today was the first of our weekly family brunches. The tradition is a good one to all, but perhaps most to the oldsters. We enjoy them the most. They bring us great pleasure.
Saturday, November 4, 2017
November 4, 2017. Madison, Mississippi. The Mails. The Freezer.
Never put anything in the freezer without printing on the outside describing the contents. Just this minute I removed from the freezer a heavy plastic box. The top was frozen and was difficult to get open. I could not imagine what was in that heavy box. I had not even noticed the box until now because it had been on the bottom of the freezer. No words were on the top. Finally, I was able to open the box and remembered what it was: Cookies in small packages. Ken ordered two big boxes of cookies, normally put into vending machines. We ate a package on a regular basis and when we left I put the extra packages into a plastic box and put them in the bottom of the freezer. And I forgot all about it. Also on the bottom of the freezer are several plastic bags full of food without labels. I have no clue what is in those bags. In order to find out, I must thaw them. I should know better.
The mail is still covering our bar area. It is the last of our mail to receive attention. First I threw out all the advertising materials, which took me a long time. Ken sorted the important mail and moved the letters that needed attention and took them downstairs to his office. My magazines are stacked beside my reading chair. But there is still two layers of mail covering the counter of the bar. I am waiting for Ken to do something with the mail, but if he does not, I think I will merely make one big pile. Of course I might also read each letter to decide what to do with it. We have been away since late in May so the mails pile up. Christina opens our mail and tells us if anything needs attention immediately but we still review the other stuff. My deadline is Sunday evening. I hate looking at the house as if we have just returned with mail covering the counter. By Sunday night, all the mail will be put away and everything in the freezer will be known to me. Only then will I able to enjoy this house. No doubt about it. I am a tad compulsive.
The mail is still covering our bar area. It is the last of our mail to receive attention. First I threw out all the advertising materials, which took me a long time. Ken sorted the important mail and moved the letters that needed attention and took them downstairs to his office. My magazines are stacked beside my reading chair. But there is still two layers of mail covering the counter of the bar. I am waiting for Ken to do something with the mail, but if he does not, I think I will merely make one big pile. Of course I might also read each letter to decide what to do with it. We have been away since late in May so the mails pile up. Christina opens our mail and tells us if anything needs attention immediately but we still review the other stuff. My deadline is Sunday evening. I hate looking at the house as if we have just returned with mail covering the counter. By Sunday night, all the mail will be put away and everything in the freezer will be known to me. Only then will I able to enjoy this house. No doubt about it. I am a tad compulsive.
Friday, November 3, 2017
November 3, 2017. Madison, Mississippi. Grand Day.
Molly was so excited. Today was Grandparents Day at her school, Christ Covenant School. Each grade prepared a song or two to present to the grandparents and Molly wanted to be sure she has the words memorized. From Kindergarten to the fifth grade, the children performed. The whole morning was impressive. Some songs were funny and quick while others had a more serious tone. After the hour long program, each child accompanied their grandparent to meet the teach and to see examples of the work done in the classroom.
I had attended grandparents days in the past, both in Mississippi, Maryland and Texas. They are all wonderful. The purpose of the day is to show the work of the students and to have the grandparents donate funds to the school. Fortunately, the whole fund raising theme is low keyed. At the beginning of the program, a speaker reminded us of the envelopes on the center of the tables. And he told us the projects that needed to be funded. The schools have probably figured out that the grandparents have more money than the parents, so the school asks for donations. No pressure but the purpose of the day is to raise money I think. But it was a well done event and I enjoyed the morning at the school.
The best part was going out to lunch with Molly, Kate and Christina. Parents are not invited but I can not drive so Christina took me. And Kate had just come home from college so she joined in our lunch. We asked Molly for her recommendation and she selected an elegant Chinese restaurant at the Renaissance. Now that was really fun. That child has good taste in restaurants!!
I had attended grandparents days in the past, both in Mississippi, Maryland and Texas. They are all wonderful. The purpose of the day is to show the work of the students and to have the grandparents donate funds to the school. Fortunately, the whole fund raising theme is low keyed. At the beginning of the program, a speaker reminded us of the envelopes on the center of the tables. And he told us the projects that needed to be funded. The schools have probably figured out that the grandparents have more money than the parents, so the school asks for donations. No pressure but the purpose of the day is to raise money I think. But it was a well done event and I enjoyed the morning at the school.
The best part was going out to lunch with Molly, Kate and Christina. Parents are not invited but I can not drive so Christina took me. And Kate had just come home from college so she joined in our lunch. We asked Molly for her recommendation and she selected an elegant Chinese restaurant at the Renaissance. Now that was really fun. That child has good taste in restaurants!!
Thursday, November 2, 2017
November 2, 2017. Madison, Mississippi. The Odd Night.
Everything seemed fine, until I called her on the phone. All my communications had been by letter, and all arrangements were in place. Ken and I , along with David and Andrew had driven from Vancouver to Calgary, stopping on the way to hike and enjoying the parks. Ruth Cromarty was a Buckley family friend. I was named after her and I called her Aunt Ruth. When I told her in my note that we were going to be in Calgary, she assured me that we must stay with her, so I agreed.
The day was getting on and I called to tell her that we would stop at a motel and see her tomorrow but that did not suit her. She urged me to keep on coming and that she had everything ready for us. Something in her voice made me uncomfortable but we kept on coming in the dark. My only option was to irritate a family friend which on retrospect I should have done.
We four arrived at !0:00 in the pitch dark. Our plan was to stay two nights. When we arrived, Aunt Ruth came to the door wearing a night shirt and a dirty dressing gown. All her life she was a prim and proper school teacher. We walked in to smell no food cooking. We had not eaten. Immediately I knew that Aunt Ruth was senile. She was able to write to me by checking her address book but it was obvious that she was not functioning. I asked if there was anything the boys could eat and she assured me that I should help myself and she told me that the fridge was full. Well it was full, but it was full of cakes. In order to entertain the boys, she had bought four cakes. I scrounged around for peanut butter and jam and that was what we ate.
Ken and I discussed leaving but it seemed easier to stay the night although the boys who were 8 and 7 were fearful of staying with this mad old lady. When I asked where we should stay, she sent me to take the boys downstairs where there was a single bed made up for them. Now they were young but they were big, but they managed. Ken and I stayed in old Mr. and Mrs. Cromarty's bedroom which held a 3/4 bed with the same old mattress.
First thing in the morning, we left. By now I knew that Aunt Ruth was not in her right mind. But we four spent the oddest night of our life in Calgary.
The day was getting on and I called to tell her that we would stop at a motel and see her tomorrow but that did not suit her. She urged me to keep on coming and that she had everything ready for us. Something in her voice made me uncomfortable but we kept on coming in the dark. My only option was to irritate a family friend which on retrospect I should have done.
We four arrived at !0:00 in the pitch dark. Our plan was to stay two nights. When we arrived, Aunt Ruth came to the door wearing a night shirt and a dirty dressing gown. All her life she was a prim and proper school teacher. We walked in to smell no food cooking. We had not eaten. Immediately I knew that Aunt Ruth was senile. She was able to write to me by checking her address book but it was obvious that she was not functioning. I asked if there was anything the boys could eat and she assured me that I should help myself and she told me that the fridge was full. Well it was full, but it was full of cakes. In order to entertain the boys, she had bought four cakes. I scrounged around for peanut butter and jam and that was what we ate.
Ken and I discussed leaving but it seemed easier to stay the night although the boys who were 8 and 7 were fearful of staying with this mad old lady. When I asked where we should stay, she sent me to take the boys downstairs where there was a single bed made up for them. Now they were young but they were big, but they managed. Ken and I stayed in old Mr. and Mrs. Cromarty's bedroom which held a 3/4 bed with the same old mattress.
First thing in the morning, we left. By now I knew that Aunt Ruth was not in her right mind. But we four spent the oddest night of our life in Calgary.
Wednesday, November 1, 2017
November 1, 2017. Madison, Mississippi. The Halloween Party.
First they invite all friends and relatives, along with all the neighbors, with or without children. Next they cook. John made a huge pot of red beans along with a big pot of rice. Greta Barbour prepared a batch of hot cider, complete with a sugar coated bits of butter. All this food and drink are kept in the kitchen. The dining room table was full of dessert, brought by guests. Christina took a cake, making up for our lack of baking skills. Cookies of all kinds along with several cakes were there to be devoured. Both Greta Barbour wore exotic costumes. They were set for a Halloween Party.
The idea was perfect for a party. The porch is wide and deep. The weather was warm so no coats were needed. We sat on the porch watching the trick or treaters, of which there were many. Their neighborhood, Bellhaven, is a nifty place for the kids. The homes are not too far apart and there are sidewalks. And we ate while we watched, along with talking to friends old and new. The party was splendid in every way. When folks arrived they helped themselves to dinner while chatting with the hosts. John handed out the candy most of the night. We enjoyed ourselves thoroughly. Halloween night is a wonderful night to have a party in Bellhaven, Mississippi, at the home of Greta Barbour and John. We hope they do it next year too.
The idea was perfect for a party. The porch is wide and deep. The weather was warm so no coats were needed. We sat on the porch watching the trick or treaters, of which there were many. Their neighborhood, Bellhaven, is a nifty place for the kids. The homes are not too far apart and there are sidewalks. And we ate while we watched, along with talking to friends old and new. The party was splendid in every way. When folks arrived they helped themselves to dinner while chatting with the hosts. John handed out the candy most of the night. We enjoyed ourselves thoroughly. Halloween night is a wonderful night to have a party in Bellhaven, Mississippi, at the home of Greta Barbour and John. We hope they do it next year too.
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