Out With The Old..
...and in with the new. That is a saying I have heard all my life. Sometimes it is good to think that way. Maybe it helps us remember there is such a thing as a new beginning, or it could be just as simple as cleaning out your closets!
However, since today is December 31 and the last day of this 2013, I want to talk about that.
2013 just like any other year rolled around on January 1. A new year, full of promise and hope. My family started this year with a wonderful trip to Hawaii. My husband and I, our son and daughter in law spent a glorious week on the island of Oahu. Those days and nights were filled with fun and memories I cherish. It was a trip I will always treasure.
February was good until I fell in the back yard and required a trip to the ER for a CT scan and xrays. Thank God nothing more than bruises and sprains but I was quite sore and the trip wasn't cheap! "Trip" get it. That is how I fell, tripped over the tie down strap for our pool. Grace isn't my middle name.
We lost a family member in March. Our brother in law had valiantly fought cancer for over a year and a half. He slipped away on a Monday evening. He left a hole in our family and in our hearts. I cannot grieve for him, but for us. He left that weak, frail body and found an eternal peace. The loved one he left behind was lost. She broke my heart daily, but God was with her to make it through each day.
I think it was April that one of our beagles got out and while my husband chased him down he stepped in a hole and heard something in his knee pop. That is never good. More on that later.
May we celebrated the 30th birthday of our son. What a great day! His wife planned a wonderful party, friends and family came to wish him well and it was a time to look back and look forward to more fun with this guy that we all love.
June was my daddy's 80th birthday! How blessed I am to have him in my life. This year we celebrated on Father's day (his birthday was the next day). My family got together to have a dinner and celebrate him and the other dads - my brother and my husband. The next week my husband had knee surgery...yes, from the fall in April. It wasn't as involved as the doctor originally thought and that was good news. It still wasn't easy for someone who is very active and doesn't relish being the patient.
July was pretty much recoup and rest. Not much going on here for us. August we slowly got back in the swing of things and attended a family reunion but didn't do too much more. My husband spent a lot of time in physical therapy these two months.
September turned out to be quite the month. We took our sister and her friend to Disney World. She had been so sad since losing her husband, and we wanted to see her smile. Well, let me tell you it is hard not to be happy at Disney World! It was like a healing balm for all of us. We had the best time and laughed till we cried and that is the best kind of tears. The week after that we took a trip to upstate New York. My husband had a business trip and I just tagged along. We met up with two friends in Buffalo and visited Niagara Falls. Oh my gosh. What a sight. The pictures, the movies, the videos, nothing can do it justice. We rode the Maid of the Mist right into the falls. It was amazing, breathtaking and downright thrilling! Fun trip. When I thought the month could not get any better, we were told on Sept. 28 that we are going to be grandparents in May! WOO HOO. That tops anything else that happened all year!
October is one of my favorite months of the year, every year. I love autumn and everything it brings. We had a family dinner at my house and of course got to share our good news. I hosted an annual Harvest Dinner with friends and that is something I look forward to all year. An outdoor fire, good food, and fellowship. October did not disappoint, we had a beautiful autumn.
My birthday is in November and my sister by heart lives in Tampa (as I have mentioned). My husband gave me round trip air fare to visit her. So thrilled with the idea of a week together and believe me we can do a lot in a week! I arrived on Monday and we hit the ground running. Straight to the mall! Dinner at our favorite local restaurant and I had my usual shrimp po boy. Same goes for Tuesday and Wednesday - Clearwater, Sarasota, Tampa. Shop, eat, sight see, rest. Repeat. Thursday I got the shock of my life when not one, not two, but three more friends arrived! They had planned this for awhile. It was great. We took a Harbor Cruise of Tampa Bay, we had lunch onboard. We had a fabulous home cooked meal one night of fresh caught fish. We talked, reminisced about things we had all done together before her move. It had to be one of the best birthdays of my life. When I got home the celebrations continued for a week so yeah, it was pretty awesome.
December and celebrating Christmas is always special. It is festive and you look forward to parties and gatherings with family and friends. I shopped, wrapped, decorated and cooked like I always do. I knew it would be a different Christmas because of losing a family member, but I knew the promise of God so it makes it easier to bear. We also knew we would find out what our grandchild will be! I knew this would be a special day. It was a sweet Christmas Eve with my husband's family. We had dinner and opened our gifts at his mom's house. We also learned in May we will welcome a little girl! Emily. I love that. Again the good eases the bad. Christmas day was spent with our son, daughter in law, and my family. They were told about Emily and it was priceless. Later that day we took in a movie and relaxed just the two of us.
Now it is December 31 and you have walked through a year with me. I didn't intend to write it this way when I started but it just happened. My main thought throughout was sometimes you don't need to be "Out with the old". That is what makes us who we are. Good times, bad times, fun times, sad times. They are all to be remembered and treasured. I will hold 2013 close to my heart, pray for a safe and happy 2014. I will look forward to each month and the days it holds. For that is the best part of any year...the gift of days. Use them wisely.
Happy New Year.
Tuesday, December 31, 2013
Tuesday, December 24, 2013
Christmas Eve...
and my heart is full of conflicting emotions. While I am thrilled and happy that it is once again Christmas, my heart aches for family and friends who are no longer with us this year.
I suppose that is the way it is every year, but it seems to be a stark reality more than ever this year. Perhaps because it came so close to home this year with the loss of my brother in law, or the fact that as we age we notice these things more. I am sure being on Facebook gives us insight into others sorrow more than we would have noticed otherwise. Friends who have lost a loved one just in the past weeks or days breaks my heart. Their sadness and emptiness does not end just because the service ends and we all go home to our lives. This Christmas is the first one two of my friends will face without their mom, another lost her dad last month, my husband's uncle passed away on Sunday and I saw this morning that a classmate from school lost her dad last night. Another sweet friend is missing her baby this Christmas.
All my feelings are not sad however. My heart is also full of joy and love for the promise of our first grandchild, due in May! Tomorrow we find out if we will be snuggling a little boy or little girl! I have been asked so often which I want. I truly do not care which it is. Either will be the light of my life! My son and his beautiful wife are giving us a gift no other can give us, a grand baby! Our family is already giddy with excitement just knowing that. Hold on to your hats when we learn what they are having! I have forced myself to walk through the baby departments at the stores. That will soon end!
I keep thinking, "This time next Christmas!" He/she will be 7 months old and it will be the most fun we have had in so many years. While we all love Christmas, it is for children. Imagine seeing it once again through the eyes of a child. There is something almost magical about the season when shared with a child. Everything takes on a special feeling. The lights are brighter, the music sweeter and the love deeper.
That brings me back to those who we miss and long to see again. They live through the children that come after them. How I wish they could see this new baby, perhaps they can. But when we hold it for the first time, we will holding generations of love. We will see them in this babies smile and eyes.
That is another thing about Christmas. The most important part. We will teach this child about Jesus. We will sing the songs of Christmas. Away in a Manger, Silent Night, Do You Hear What I Hear. We will sit through the Christmas pageants God willing, and watch our grandchild portray a shepherd, a Wise man or perhaps an angel or even Mary. We will read the Christmas story from the Book of Luke. Again, generations and traditions relived.
How could you go through life not knowing the promise fulfilled on that night, whether it was a December night doesn't matter. What matters is that He is the Messiah. The prophets foretold His coming. He was born of a virgin, He lived and died that we might have eternal life and isn't that the greatest gift of all? That is what assures us that we will be reunited with those we have loved and lost.
Isaiah 9:6, 7
Merry Christmas.
and my heart is full of conflicting emotions. While I am thrilled and happy that it is once again Christmas, my heart aches for family and friends who are no longer with us this year.
I suppose that is the way it is every year, but it seems to be a stark reality more than ever this year. Perhaps because it came so close to home this year with the loss of my brother in law, or the fact that as we age we notice these things more. I am sure being on Facebook gives us insight into others sorrow more than we would have noticed otherwise. Friends who have lost a loved one just in the past weeks or days breaks my heart. Their sadness and emptiness does not end just because the service ends and we all go home to our lives. This Christmas is the first one two of my friends will face without their mom, another lost her dad last month, my husband's uncle passed away on Sunday and I saw this morning that a classmate from school lost her dad last night. Another sweet friend is missing her baby this Christmas.
All my feelings are not sad however. My heart is also full of joy and love for the promise of our first grandchild, due in May! Tomorrow we find out if we will be snuggling a little boy or little girl! I have been asked so often which I want. I truly do not care which it is. Either will be the light of my life! My son and his beautiful wife are giving us a gift no other can give us, a grand baby! Our family is already giddy with excitement just knowing that. Hold on to your hats when we learn what they are having! I have forced myself to walk through the baby departments at the stores. That will soon end!
I keep thinking, "This time next Christmas!" He/she will be 7 months old and it will be the most fun we have had in so many years. While we all love Christmas, it is for children. Imagine seeing it once again through the eyes of a child. There is something almost magical about the season when shared with a child. Everything takes on a special feeling. The lights are brighter, the music sweeter and the love deeper.
That brings me back to those who we miss and long to see again. They live through the children that come after them. How I wish they could see this new baby, perhaps they can. But when we hold it for the first time, we will holding generations of love. We will see them in this babies smile and eyes.
That is another thing about Christmas. The most important part. We will teach this child about Jesus. We will sing the songs of Christmas. Away in a Manger, Silent Night, Do You Hear What I Hear. We will sit through the Christmas pageants God willing, and watch our grandchild portray a shepherd, a Wise man or perhaps an angel or even Mary. We will read the Christmas story from the Book of Luke. Again, generations and traditions relived.
How could you go through life not knowing the promise fulfilled on that night, whether it was a December night doesn't matter. What matters is that He is the Messiah. The prophets foretold His coming. He was born of a virgin, He lived and died that we might have eternal life and isn't that the greatest gift of all? That is what assures us that we will be reunited with those we have loved and lost.
Isaiah 9:6, 7
Merry Christmas.
Wednesday, August 21, 2013
Late Summer
Late summer.
It brings to mind so many possibilities and promises. The first of which is Autumn. I know it is still August, believe me I do. But we have been experiencing unseasonably cool weather the past week or so and well, it just makes me want autumn even more. I tell myself don't look at the fall clothes yet, don't start thinking about soups and warm bread, and for heaven's sake don't get out the apple pie scented candles.
If I didn't know better I would think autumn is messing with us! Last Friday night we actually lit a fire in our outdoor fireplace. We had soup and grilled sandwiches for dinner which we ate on the porch, then made ourselves cozy by the fire and watched baseball. Fire, baseball. Autumn, summer. Contradictions! And Saturday was just the same. Windy, cool and rainy. Perfect autumn day, only it is not autumn!
This week has been a little warmer, but still below normal. Not only that, but we have had buckets of rain. With all that said, there lies the dilemma. Should I dream of an early fall and leave summer behind or do I face the reality that it won't last and we will see another "hot spell" before summer actually bids us adieu?
Now some people might question why all this matters. Well, I will tell you. I LOVE autumn. Plain and simple. It is without a doubt my favorite season. It is the season that brings out the jeans and long sleeves, crisp apples - you know the kind. Fresh picked, when you bite into it the juice runs down your hand apple. Yard work becomes more fun because there is a nip in the air and a bite of chill on your face instead of sweat.
The pool in my yard sits empty today because all the chilly nights and rainy days have made the water too cold for me. The floats look forlorn and lonely. But they steadfastly hang in there because it is still summer and they know it. They seem to smile a sly smile when I walk past. Sounds silly but I think they do. They know they are getting the last laugh because it will get hot again, it is Georgia and it is August. Summer will not go quietly and I suppose it shouldn't have to.
We will have a few more cookouts by the pool and savor those days when floating is the thing to do. For now I will enjoy each day as it comes, and if it happens to be cool and a little windy so much the better. When the calendar finally turns and September strolls in then it will truly be the beginning of my favorite season and I can exhale, say hello to autumn and goodbye to late summer.
Friday, August 2, 2013
Dog Days vs. School Days
In the month of August something almost magical happens. The summer days wake with a warm haziness and the crickets chirp louder and longer and the butterflies multiply on the blooms.
It is Dog Days. My grandmother explained this as the time of summer when the family hound would scratch out a place in the cool dirt under the porch and lay there all day. It was too hot and humid to do much else. There may be another reason for the title, but I am good with this one. It is when summer turns from the excitement of June and July - school is out, graduations and weddings are upon us and we are focused on celebrating the 4th and the thrill of parades and fireworks and days at the beach fill our thoughts. When the calendar turns and August arrives it is with the slow ease of a good friend knocking on the back door.
When I was growing up August was filled with things we had to finish in our final weeks of freedom. Important things, like picking the last of the plump blackberries hanging on the vines that grew wild across the street from my grandmother's house. Damn the snakes, birds and chiggers those were our blackberries and we got them! The scratches from the briers were badges of honor as our buckets filled for the last time that year and we hoped it would be enough for one more cobbler. Figs hung ripe and heavy on the huge tree by her house. She and I would pick them and stand under that tree and eat. The leaves were big and made me itch but biting into that fruit was worth a little scratching. It was the time to see the tadpoles grow into frogs, to catch a few more lightning bugs in a mason jar, and pray for rain so we could wade in the ditch when the water rushed through.
I remember sitting in the crook of her huge oak tree that grew on the back of the property. Many a mystery has been solved there by Nancy Drew with my help. My brother would beg me to close the book and come play just a little longer before mama came by to take us home for the night.
Mama talked about going shopping for our back to school clothes and while that was mildly intriguing it was something for the distant future. We still had to save the world one mission at a time in our playhouse and on our bicycles. I can close my eyes even now and feel the wind on my face as we sailed down the dirt road and all was right with my world. Until I hit a piece of gravel and hit the ground - but that is another day.
When we finally said goodbye to August and packed up summer, we arrived at school in our new clothes and shoes. There would be a nip in the air as September gathered us up and ushered us through the doors to our new classrooms. A sweater was worn over my new dress which was always something in the colors or autumn, perhaps a plaid. Something far removed from the shorts and barefoot days of August.
Several school districts in the area began classes today. How sad. They use some sort of reasoning to justify robbing children of their magical August. Something about cost and air conditioning (ever hear of open windows - that is what we had.) Whatever the reason it is wrong that children are missing the most wonderful time of summer. They are glad to see their friends, they will get into the routine quickly. But, they cannot sit in a closed up classroom and feel the sun on their face and hear the cicadas or splash in a creek. They have said goodbye to summer just when summer is slowing down and beckoning them to come play.
So glad I got to.
It is Dog Days. My grandmother explained this as the time of summer when the family hound would scratch out a place in the cool dirt under the porch and lay there all day. It was too hot and humid to do much else. There may be another reason for the title, but I am good with this one. It is when summer turns from the excitement of June and July - school is out, graduations and weddings are upon us and we are focused on celebrating the 4th and the thrill of parades and fireworks and days at the beach fill our thoughts. When the calendar turns and August arrives it is with the slow ease of a good friend knocking on the back door.
When I was growing up August was filled with things we had to finish in our final weeks of freedom. Important things, like picking the last of the plump blackberries hanging on the vines that grew wild across the street from my grandmother's house. Damn the snakes, birds and chiggers those were our blackberries and we got them! The scratches from the briers were badges of honor as our buckets filled for the last time that year and we hoped it would be enough for one more cobbler. Figs hung ripe and heavy on the huge tree by her house. She and I would pick them and stand under that tree and eat. The leaves were big and made me itch but biting into that fruit was worth a little scratching. It was the time to see the tadpoles grow into frogs, to catch a few more lightning bugs in a mason jar, and pray for rain so we could wade in the ditch when the water rushed through.
I remember sitting in the crook of her huge oak tree that grew on the back of the property. Many a mystery has been solved there by Nancy Drew with my help. My brother would beg me to close the book and come play just a little longer before mama came by to take us home for the night.
Mama talked about going shopping for our back to school clothes and while that was mildly intriguing it was something for the distant future. We still had to save the world one mission at a time in our playhouse and on our bicycles. I can close my eyes even now and feel the wind on my face as we sailed down the dirt road and all was right with my world. Until I hit a piece of gravel and hit the ground - but that is another day.
When we finally said goodbye to August and packed up summer, we arrived at school in our new clothes and shoes. There would be a nip in the air as September gathered us up and ushered us through the doors to our new classrooms. A sweater was worn over my new dress which was always something in the colors or autumn, perhaps a plaid. Something far removed from the shorts and barefoot days of August.
Several school districts in the area began classes today. How sad. They use some sort of reasoning to justify robbing children of their magical August. Something about cost and air conditioning (ever hear of open windows - that is what we had.) Whatever the reason it is wrong that children are missing the most wonderful time of summer. They are glad to see their friends, they will get into the routine quickly. But, they cannot sit in a closed up classroom and feel the sun on their face and hear the cicadas or splash in a creek. They have said goodbye to summer just when summer is slowing down and beckoning them to come play.
So glad I got to.
Friday, June 28, 2013
Blind Dates and Wedding Bells
Since my last post was about our son and his beginning, I thought it might be nice to share "our beginning"....my husband and me.
Forty years ago tonight I was most likely sitting in my bedroom thinking about how I could possibly get out of a blind date that was the next evening. I am sure if you ask him, he was doing the same thing. A friend and I both had tickets to Six Flags Over Georgia Park. The guy I had invited wasn't able to go, so in my mind that was that. Not so with my friend, she called me midweek to say she had asked her boyfriend to find me a date. What! No way, I told her. She said "it's too late, he's already asked him." I later learned he first thought a bunch of guys were going. SO we were both hoodwinked!
After thinking of everything I could to weasel out, I decided heck it is just one night, and it is Six Flags so how bad could this be! So, we went to Six Flags on that Friday night - my friend, her boyfriend, his friend and me. We really hit it off and had a great evening together. He was very shy and quiet, me not so much! We rode practically every ride at the park and I later learned he was afraid of heights, but did not want to say anything! When the date was over he asked for my number - and I gave it to him. He wanted to take me out the next night, BUT my friends and I had tickets to see Elvis in concert at the Omni in Atlanta! Told you it was 40 years ago.
So, I told him he could come to my house the day after and he did. That was a Sunday and my mom and dad were making homemade peach ice cream and I had invited another couple over (just in case the conversation dragged). He would not even eat any ice cream - my mom practically stood on her head to get him to try it and no go. He admitted later that he wanted some so bad but was too shy to get it! Go figure.
We never went out with another person after that weekend. Can you believe that? Fast forward to our wedding...but don't go too fast or you may miss it. He proposed five months after we met, we got officially engaged (with the ring) in January and married one year to the day of our blind date.
Yep, thirty nine years ago tonight I was getting ready for our Rehearsal and Dinner. Tomorrow is our anniversary and I wonder what in the world became of that shy boy and the girl who dreaded a blind date! I see as I look back that God placed us together. That he was the only one for me and God had to use a friend who would not take no for an answer to do it! Funny how He does that.
Our lives have been blessed and I am so happy we took that leap all those years ago. And he isn't quite so shy anymore. When my mom cooks he always eats, and when he doesn't want to go on a ride because of the height - I just ride it by myself.
Forty years ago tonight I was most likely sitting in my bedroom thinking about how I could possibly get out of a blind date that was the next evening. I am sure if you ask him, he was doing the same thing. A friend and I both had tickets to Six Flags Over Georgia Park. The guy I had invited wasn't able to go, so in my mind that was that. Not so with my friend, she called me midweek to say she had asked her boyfriend to find me a date. What! No way, I told her. She said "it's too late, he's already asked him." I later learned he first thought a bunch of guys were going. SO we were both hoodwinked!
After thinking of everything I could to weasel out, I decided heck it is just one night, and it is Six Flags so how bad could this be! So, we went to Six Flags on that Friday night - my friend, her boyfriend, his friend and me. We really hit it off and had a great evening together. He was very shy and quiet, me not so much! We rode practically every ride at the park and I later learned he was afraid of heights, but did not want to say anything! When the date was over he asked for my number - and I gave it to him. He wanted to take me out the next night, BUT my friends and I had tickets to see Elvis in concert at the Omni in Atlanta! Told you it was 40 years ago.
So, I told him he could come to my house the day after and he did. That was a Sunday and my mom and dad were making homemade peach ice cream and I had invited another couple over (just in case the conversation dragged). He would not even eat any ice cream - my mom practically stood on her head to get him to try it and no go. He admitted later that he wanted some so bad but was too shy to get it! Go figure.
We never went out with another person after that weekend. Can you believe that? Fast forward to our wedding...but don't go too fast or you may miss it. He proposed five months after we met, we got officially engaged (with the ring) in January and married one year to the day of our blind date.
Yep, thirty nine years ago tonight I was getting ready for our Rehearsal and Dinner. Tomorrow is our anniversary and I wonder what in the world became of that shy boy and the girl who dreaded a blind date! I see as I look back that God placed us together. That he was the only one for me and God had to use a friend who would not take no for an answer to do it! Funny how He does that.
Our lives have been blessed and I am so happy we took that leap all those years ago. And he isn't quite so shy anymore. When my mom cooks he always eats, and when he doesn't want to go on a ride because of the height - I just ride it by myself.
Friday, May 24, 2013
Happy Birthday Brett
For the next two weeks everything was wonderful. We had lots of visitors and so many wonderful gifts. He was outfitted like no one would believe! To say this baby was a blessing would be an understatement.
In his third week we noticed he wasn't eating, feverish and just fussy. We called the doctor, made and appointment and took him in. When his pediatrician came in she examined him thoroughly and then took our breath away by telling us she was sending him to the hospital. What!? She told us to go straight there. When we arrived they were waiting for us in the NICU. Seems the fetal monitor that had saved his life, had also caused an infection. Since his birth the lymph nodes had taken care of this infection and now, they were overloaded and they were infected.
Once again my baby was fighting for his life. This was all too much. He was put on an IV - and for me to hold him the nurse had to lay him on a pillow and hand him to me so I would not interfere with the lines.
Overwhelmed and scared we stayed in that room right by the nurses station for a week. He was monitored around the clock. We barely left his side. Family would relieve us but I was afraid to go too far.
Then, to our joy and relief he improved. He fought and won, yet again. Everyone said, "God has a plan for this baby," He pediatrician told me later that she didn't want to let on how very sick he was. Once again we got to take our baby home. This time it was for keeps.
He has a scar on the back of his head from that monitor. When he was small other children would ask him about it and it really bothered him. Finally, I told him to tell them it was a battle scar. It truly was. It is ironic, had it not been for the monitor when I was in labor he would have died and because of the monitor after he was born he almost died. It really is proof that he was in the fight of his life.
We never looked back after that. We have had more fun with him than words can express. It was always the three of us - him, his dad and me. Beach trips, Disney, parties, cruises, coached by his dad in sports, pets, accomplishments, awards, friends, first truck, first love to true love, first house, wedding. It has been quite a ride watching him grow into the man he is now.
My son, is the best of me. He grew up with a kind heart and a gentle spirit. He always seemed like an old soul. People would stop me just to talk to him wherever we went when he was little. He respects people, he works hard at everything he does. This son of mine who was spared twice has given our family a life of happiness, laughter, silliness, memories and love.
He is the handsome, strong man in the photo with me. Happy Birthday Brett. "I'll love you forever.
In his third week we noticed he wasn't eating, feverish and just fussy. We called the doctor, made and appointment and took him in. When his pediatrician came in she examined him thoroughly and then took our breath away by telling us she was sending him to the hospital. What!? She told us to go straight there. When we arrived they were waiting for us in the NICU. Seems the fetal monitor that had saved his life, had also caused an infection. Since his birth the lymph nodes had taken care of this infection and now, they were overloaded and they were infected.
Once again my baby was fighting for his life. This was all too much. He was put on an IV - and for me to hold him the nurse had to lay him on a pillow and hand him to me so I would not interfere with the lines.
Overwhelmed and scared we stayed in that room right by the nurses station for a week. He was monitored around the clock. We barely left his side. Family would relieve us but I was afraid to go too far.
Then, to our joy and relief he improved. He fought and won, yet again. Everyone said, "God has a plan for this baby," He pediatrician told me later that she didn't want to let on how very sick he was. Once again we got to take our baby home. This time it was for keeps.
He has a scar on the back of his head from that monitor. When he was small other children would ask him about it and it really bothered him. Finally, I told him to tell them it was a battle scar. It truly was. It is ironic, had it not been for the monitor when I was in labor he would have died and because of the monitor after he was born he almost died. It really is proof that he was in the fight of his life.
We never looked back after that. We have had more fun with him than words can express. It was always the three of us - him, his dad and me. Beach trips, Disney, parties, cruises, coached by his dad in sports, pets, accomplishments, awards, friends, first truck, first love to true love, first house, wedding. It has been quite a ride watching him grow into the man he is now.
My son, is the best of me. He grew up with a kind heart and a gentle spirit. He always seemed like an old soul. People would stop me just to talk to him wherever we went when he was little. He respects people, he works hard at everything he does. This son of mine who was spared twice has given our family a life of happiness, laughter, silliness, memories and love.
He is the handsome, strong man in the photo with me. Happy Birthday Brett. "I'll love you forever.
Wednesday, May 22, 2013
"We have a son."
It wasn't the belt. That became alarmingly evident after a few minutes with the internal fetal monitor in place. My baby's heart beats were almost imperceptible after each contraction. They would drop dangerously low and not come back up as high or as quickly as they wanted. After eight and a half hours of labor I wasn't going to be delivering my baby on my own. They had to move fast to save him.
If people were bees and that room a hive you could picture what happened next. Someone went to the door and yelled out "I need a C team stat." Someone else shoved a paper under my nose for me to sign - to this day I wonder what that signature looked like. Since I was pretty loopy at the time. They hurried my husband out and saying we have to do a c-section and you can't go. All the while nurses were putting blood pressure cuffs on me, hooking up new IVs and moving me to a gurney and moving me out.
I am told that from the second they asked for a C team until my baby was delivered a grand total of nine minutes elapsed. Nine minutes. Minutes that could have turned out so differently.
There is a movie with Kevin Bacon and Elizabeth McGovern entitled "She's Having a Baby". There is a part where they are in the hospital getting ready to welcome their new baby, she is in labor, he is in his cute little scrubs and all is well with the world, until something goes wrong and it is like watching us on the screen. My husband cannot watch that part of the movie without getting upset. He says it hits too close to home. He said he sat in that waiting room not knowing what the outcome would be.
So, at 8:59 am on that Wednesday morning, after the hours of labor our baby came into this world and I missed it.
The next thing I remember was my husband standing over me in a recovery room and saying "We have a son." A son. Really? Since for some reason I thought I had a girl. I kept thinking poor thing, he is so confused! But no, we did have a son. A wonderful, beautiful, perfectly healthy although small son. Since he was early he weighed just under 6 lbs. But he was here, he was safe. He made it through all the trauma and delivery.
We were told the placenta had separated during my labor and he was smothering. He was fighting to breathe and for every heart beat. I often think how glad I am that I didn't take the heavy drugs for pain or have the epidural.
But, thanks to the quick work of the doctor and those wonderful nurses I had him. My easy, normal pregnancy had turned into something else. It was not the plan, but it was God's plan and we had a little boy to hold and love.
I wasn't a Christian when all this happened. I attended church, always had. But I had never given my heart to Jesus. After I was saved I could see the hand of God on my little one that night. I had held off taking anything for pain, I had refused the epidural. If he had the drugs in him from me taking them he would have been lethargic and would not have fought so hard. The right people we there at just the right minute when it became critical. Otherwise our story would not end as it did.
We along with his grandparents celebrated his arrival. I had to stay in the hospital longer than expected because of minor complications with me. But one week later we took him home. Home to his Peter Rabbit nursery. Home to his own bed. Home to meet friends and other family members. Home so we could love him and watch him grow. Home.
If people were bees and that room a hive you could picture what happened next. Someone went to the door and yelled out "I need a C team stat." Someone else shoved a paper under my nose for me to sign - to this day I wonder what that signature looked like. Since I was pretty loopy at the time. They hurried my husband out and saying we have to do a c-section and you can't go. All the while nurses were putting blood pressure cuffs on me, hooking up new IVs and moving me to a gurney and moving me out.
I am told that from the second they asked for a C team until my baby was delivered a grand total of nine minutes elapsed. Nine minutes. Minutes that could have turned out so differently.
There is a movie with Kevin Bacon and Elizabeth McGovern entitled "She's Having a Baby". There is a part where they are in the hospital getting ready to welcome their new baby, she is in labor, he is in his cute little scrubs and all is well with the world, until something goes wrong and it is like watching us on the screen. My husband cannot watch that part of the movie without getting upset. He says it hits too close to home. He said he sat in that waiting room not knowing what the outcome would be.
So, at 8:59 am on that Wednesday morning, after the hours of labor our baby came into this world and I missed it.
The next thing I remember was my husband standing over me in a recovery room and saying "We have a son." A son. Really? Since for some reason I thought I had a girl. I kept thinking poor thing, he is so confused! But no, we did have a son. A wonderful, beautiful, perfectly healthy although small son. Since he was early he weighed just under 6 lbs. But he was here, he was safe. He made it through all the trauma and delivery.
We were told the placenta had separated during my labor and he was smothering. He was fighting to breathe and for every heart beat. I often think how glad I am that I didn't take the heavy drugs for pain or have the epidural.
But, thanks to the quick work of the doctor and those wonderful nurses I had him. My easy, normal pregnancy had turned into something else. It was not the plan, but it was God's plan and we had a little boy to hold and love.
I wasn't a Christian when all this happened. I attended church, always had. But I had never given my heart to Jesus. After I was saved I could see the hand of God on my little one that night. I had held off taking anything for pain, I had refused the epidural. If he had the drugs in him from me taking them he would have been lethargic and would not have fought so hard. The right people we there at just the right minute when it became critical. Otherwise our story would not end as it did.
We along with his grandparents celebrated his arrival. I had to stay in the hospital longer than expected because of minor complications with me. But one week later we took him home. Home to his Peter Rabbit nursery. Home to his own bed. Home to meet friends and other family members. Home so we could love him and watch him grow. Home.
Monday, May 20, 2013
"She is making progress"
So after our little drive to the hospital and the check in process, they placed us in a little room in the L&D. It had a door that opened to the main hallway and a door that opened to a back hallway for privacy. After I was outfitted with my lovely hospital gown and examined by a nurse I was told to go in the back hall and walk to get my labor started. Not even a twinge at this point. So we started walking. We walked and walked, soon some pains were evident but they were in my lower back. I would go back to the room occasionally for a rest, never on the bed, just leaning on it to relieve my back. My husband would rub my back and after a breather off we would go again. We had done all the natural childbirth classes and I was determined to do this without drugs. I could say idiot again.
We would take our breaks, or they would check me and say keep walking and we did. Not sure of the time but way up in the morning they said I had progressed enough that I could get in the bed. That almost sounds like good news. But OMG! I had back labor and it was vicious. It eventually made its way ALL the way around and let me tell you there weren't any doubts then!
We did this for hours. My husband on one side of me holding my hand, a young nurses aide on the other side of me holding my hand, and me with a big monitor belt across me in the middle of the bed. I am sure it was a sight. He told me later he thought I would break all the bones in his hand and wasn't sure how that girl stood it like she did. I hope nothing was mangled in her hand! But when one of those pains hit I didn't care what I was breaking. Still no drugs.
The nurses made their appearance every now and then to check on things and would say "you are making progress". One could only hope so! They finally must have realized that we actually were going to have a baby that day, so they let my husband change into his cute little scrubs. He was excited and nervous, I was exhausted. One of the nurse told me I needed to let them give me something to take the edge off. No epidural was my reply and she said, "No epidural". They gave me something in an IV. I still hurt like crazy, but it didn't seem quite as horrible each time that pain shot through me!
My OB came in to see how I was and he was told "she is making progress" - Ha. He read the little tape coming from the monitor which was strapped on me. Patted my shoulder and left. Ok. I don't need your help anyway, I got this. For all I knew he was checking his stock reports on a ticker.
Sometime later he came in rather a hurry and said, we need to take the monitor off and use an internal fetal monitor. Why? What's happening? Those questions rolled around in my head but I am not sure if I asked them. Maybe my husband did. I do remember hearing an answer as they made the change. The baby's heart rate isn't coming back up like it should after each contraction. We need the fetal monitor to get a more accurate reading. Oh, nothing is wrong, good. It is just that clunky belt I am wearing.
We would take our breaks, or they would check me and say keep walking and we did. Not sure of the time but way up in the morning they said I had progressed enough that I could get in the bed. That almost sounds like good news. But OMG! I had back labor and it was vicious. It eventually made its way ALL the way around and let me tell you there weren't any doubts then!
We did this for hours. My husband on one side of me holding my hand, a young nurses aide on the other side of me holding my hand, and me with a big monitor belt across me in the middle of the bed. I am sure it was a sight. He told me later he thought I would break all the bones in his hand and wasn't sure how that girl stood it like she did. I hope nothing was mangled in her hand! But when one of those pains hit I didn't care what I was breaking. Still no drugs.
The nurses made their appearance every now and then to check on things and would say "you are making progress". One could only hope so! They finally must have realized that we actually were going to have a baby that day, so they let my husband change into his cute little scrubs. He was excited and nervous, I was exhausted. One of the nurse told me I needed to let them give me something to take the edge off. No epidural was my reply and she said, "No epidural". They gave me something in an IV. I still hurt like crazy, but it didn't seem quite as horrible each time that pain shot through me!
My OB came in to see how I was and he was told "she is making progress" - Ha. He read the little tape coming from the monitor which was strapped on me. Patted my shoulder and left. Ok. I don't need your help anyway, I got this. For all I knew he was checking his stock reports on a ticker.
Sometime later he came in rather a hurry and said, we need to take the monitor off and use an internal fetal monitor. Why? What's happening? Those questions rolled around in my head but I am not sure if I asked them. Maybe my husband did. I do remember hearing an answer as they made the change. The baby's heart rate isn't coming back up like it should after each contraction. We need the fetal monitor to get a more accurate reading. Oh, nothing is wrong, good. It is just that clunky belt I am wearing.
Friday, May 17, 2013
Waiting for a little one, Pt. 2
It has always been funny to me that sometimes I cannot remember why I walked into a room and what I was doing, yet things from so long ago seem as fresh in my memory as the day it happened.
May 24, 1983 I worked all day, it was a Tuesday. I drove home from work finished up some yard work - just pulled a few weeds while sitting on the ground. Couldn't muster up more than that since I was very pregnant. My husband drove up from his job and asked me what in the world I was doing. Seemed pretty obvious to me. So at his rather strong suggestion I went inside. For dinner I cooked spaghetti, salad and rolls. Later that night I made chocolate chip cookies.
Our washer and dryer was on the basement level of our house and we also had a den down there, which we had finished ourselves and if I do say so looked pretty good. While I waddled up and down the steps washing towels and such, my husband sat in the floor of that den surrounded by change and sorting out the quarters for all the names on our list who wanted to be called the minute we had news. Remember this was thirty years ago - no cell phones to be had. So every call would be from a pay phone and he wanted to make sure he had plenty of ammunition.
The moon was almost full. It would be completely full on May 26. While standing in front of the washer putting in yet another load, there it was. My water broke. I calmly walked around the corner to tell my husband and he said, "does this mean we are going to the hospital?" To which I said, "nah, I haven't even had a pain!" Idiot. About an hour went by and nothing had happened but he was panicky so I called the doctor's service and he called me right back. I told him what had happened and he told me I needed to go to the hospital. My response was "Now?" He said, "Yes, now." Again, idiot. Well, this was my first time having a baby, so what did I know?
I changed into a clean shirt and jeans. We got my bag which was packed and ready to go. We got our little item that was to be my focus point during labor. We closed the door to our house and buckled up in our Nissan 200SX and drove to Northside Hospital which was about a forty five minute drive, normally. I don't think it took him that long. It was about 11 pm. and I remember what a clear and beautiful night it was. I was calm, still had not even had a twinge. I know we talked on that ride, but could not tell you anything we said because in truth I was a million miles away. The thought that was going through my mind was things will never be the same again!
To be continued...
May 24, 1983 I worked all day, it was a Tuesday. I drove home from work finished up some yard work - just pulled a few weeds while sitting on the ground. Couldn't muster up more than that since I was very pregnant. My husband drove up from his job and asked me what in the world I was doing. Seemed pretty obvious to me. So at his rather strong suggestion I went inside. For dinner I cooked spaghetti, salad and rolls. Later that night I made chocolate chip cookies.
Our washer and dryer was on the basement level of our house and we also had a den down there, which we had finished ourselves and if I do say so looked pretty good. While I waddled up and down the steps washing towels and such, my husband sat in the floor of that den surrounded by change and sorting out the quarters for all the names on our list who wanted to be called the minute we had news. Remember this was thirty years ago - no cell phones to be had. So every call would be from a pay phone and he wanted to make sure he had plenty of ammunition.
The moon was almost full. It would be completely full on May 26. While standing in front of the washer putting in yet another load, there it was. My water broke. I calmly walked around the corner to tell my husband and he said, "does this mean we are going to the hospital?" To which I said, "nah, I haven't even had a pain!" Idiot. About an hour went by and nothing had happened but he was panicky so I called the doctor's service and he called me right back. I told him what had happened and he told me I needed to go to the hospital. My response was "Now?" He said, "Yes, now." Again, idiot. Well, this was my first time having a baby, so what did I know?
I changed into a clean shirt and jeans. We got my bag which was packed and ready to go. We got our little item that was to be my focus point during labor. We closed the door to our house and buckled up in our Nissan 200SX and drove to Northside Hospital which was about a forty five minute drive, normally. I don't think it took him that long. It was about 11 pm. and I remember what a clear and beautiful night it was. I was calm, still had not even had a twinge. I know we talked on that ride, but could not tell you anything we said because in truth I was a million miles away. The thought that was going through my mind was things will never be the same again!
To be continued...
Wednesday, May 15, 2013
Waiting on a little one...
My son is about to be 30 years old. There are many birthday milestones in your child's life that really touch your heart as a mom. Some being their first birthday, the 5th, 13th, 16th, 18th, 21st. At each one of these your child moves to another phase in their life. No longer an infant, first grade, teenager, driver's license, graduation, adulthood. But 30! It just doesn't seem like that is possible.
June 10 was the date he was due, but he had other ideas. So, May 25 is his birthday. Ten days from today. I want to share a little about the time I was waiting for him and then a little about my son and I will do that over the next few blogs.
We were married for nine years before he was born. It was our choice to wait, we enjoyed the time as a couple, but there came that time when we decided we both wanted a child. The day I went to the doctor to confirm what I already knew I called my husband and asked him to meet me for lunch. Now, I worked about 30 miles from him but could not wait until that night. It was great! He didn't even know I had gone to the doctor! I will never forget his reaction. I was blessed with a pretty normal pregnancy. I had the sickness - at night. I had a great job and worked everyday. Of course the backaches and the kicks and heartburn were there - but I loved them. Every symptom meant I was carrying my new son or daughter (I never had a test to tell me which it was). Everyone had their own guesses and that was fun.
Decorating the nursery was a joy! I had so many beautiful things thanks to lots of family and friends who were just as excited as we were. The room was done in Beatrix Potter's Peter Rabbit and friends. My favorite being Jemimah Puddleduck. I had all the little clothes, blankets, bedding all washed and folded and waiting. It was an amazing time in my life. It is funny how things like a song can take you right back to a time in your life. To this day when I hear "Thank God for Kids" or "Danny's Song" I think about my pregnancy and how much I loved that little one I was carrying.
By late May I knew I would never make it to June 10. I kept telling my husband and my mom this baby is coming sooner than they think! I had the bursts of energy. I worked in the yard, I pulled weeds, I cooked and cleaned and worked every day. The night of May 24 it was different and deep down I felt it would be just a short time before we met our little one...
...to be continued.
June 10 was the date he was due, but he had other ideas. So, May 25 is his birthday. Ten days from today. I want to share a little about the time I was waiting for him and then a little about my son and I will do that over the next few blogs.
We were married for nine years before he was born. It was our choice to wait, we enjoyed the time as a couple, but there came that time when we decided we both wanted a child. The day I went to the doctor to confirm what I already knew I called my husband and asked him to meet me for lunch. Now, I worked about 30 miles from him but could not wait until that night. It was great! He didn't even know I had gone to the doctor! I will never forget his reaction. I was blessed with a pretty normal pregnancy. I had the sickness - at night. I had a great job and worked everyday. Of course the backaches and the kicks and heartburn were there - but I loved them. Every symptom meant I was carrying my new son or daughter (I never had a test to tell me which it was). Everyone had their own guesses and that was fun.
Decorating the nursery was a joy! I had so many beautiful things thanks to lots of family and friends who were just as excited as we were. The room was done in Beatrix Potter's Peter Rabbit and friends. My favorite being Jemimah Puddleduck. I had all the little clothes, blankets, bedding all washed and folded and waiting. It was an amazing time in my life. It is funny how things like a song can take you right back to a time in your life. To this day when I hear "Thank God for Kids" or "Danny's Song" I think about my pregnancy and how much I loved that little one I was carrying.
By late May I knew I would never make it to June 10. I kept telling my husband and my mom this baby is coming sooner than they think! I had the bursts of energy. I worked in the yard, I pulled weeds, I cooked and cleaned and worked every day. The night of May 24 it was different and deep down I felt it would be just a short time before we met our little one...
...to be continued.
Saturday, May 11, 2013
Honor Thy Mother
Mother's Day is tomorrow. What other day brings forth so many emotions? It is a day set aside to honor you mother.
Scripture says Honor Thy Mother everyday. Not everyone gets that. I am blessed to have my mother and mother-in-law still in my life. I hope that I honor them as they deserve. I have a son that loves me and a daughter by marriage! They are joys in my life.
Many women in my life have been like a mother to me. From my first Sunday School teachers who read stories of Jesus and his disciples and taught us to love one another, to my school teachers. My first, third and fifth grade teachers were wonderful women who I remember with fondness so many years later. During my fifth grade year we moved to a new town and new home and it made me sad to leave the teacher I loved.
In our new community I met the girls who would be my life long friends. We had so much fun together, having grand sleepovers, watching movies, riding our bicycles, sharing meals at each others house. I came to love their moms - the ladies who drove us around, planned our parties, made our snacks, worked in the gardens and cooked fabulous home grown vegetables. We knew if our own mom wasn't around, there was always a mom close by. I hope they feel the same about my mom.
After I became a mom and my son has his own friends I was blessed to be one of the moms I just described. There was always a time that little boys were running in and out of my house! I was one of the neighborhood moms and it was great. Then I was a school mom, a team mom, a Sunday school mom, a Care Group Mom. It was wonderful.
Along the way I had women in my life that continued to be moms to me.. high school teachers, women I worked with, ladies from our church that were blessings in my life. They mentored me, taught me, prayed for me, strengthened me and loved me. They were the best moms!
Here's the thing though. Looking back on all these women in my life, some were not blessed with children of their own. They were not called mom, mama, mother. Some of the teachers I had were single, some of the ladies in church did not have children, some had lost children. I realize it didn't matter. These women had love to give, wisdom to share, lessons to teach if anyone would listen. These women were moms to so many.
So today I am wishing all the ladies in my life "Happy Mother's Day". The ones with children, the ones who never had children, the ones who lost children, the ones who still hope for that child...You are all important, you are all loved, you are all treasures. If you have such women in your life be thankful, take a moment to remember them. I will do the same.
Scripture says Honor Thy Mother everyday. Not everyone gets that. I am blessed to have my mother and mother-in-law still in my life. I hope that I honor them as they deserve. I have a son that loves me and a daughter by marriage! They are joys in my life.
Many women in my life have been like a mother to me. From my first Sunday School teachers who read stories of Jesus and his disciples and taught us to love one another, to my school teachers. My first, third and fifth grade teachers were wonderful women who I remember with fondness so many years later. During my fifth grade year we moved to a new town and new home and it made me sad to leave the teacher I loved.
In our new community I met the girls who would be my life long friends. We had so much fun together, having grand sleepovers, watching movies, riding our bicycles, sharing meals at each others house. I came to love their moms - the ladies who drove us around, planned our parties, made our snacks, worked in the gardens and cooked fabulous home grown vegetables. We knew if our own mom wasn't around, there was always a mom close by. I hope they feel the same about my mom.
After I became a mom and my son has his own friends I was blessed to be one of the moms I just described. There was always a time that little boys were running in and out of my house! I was one of the neighborhood moms and it was great. Then I was a school mom, a team mom, a Sunday school mom, a Care Group Mom. It was wonderful.
Along the way I had women in my life that continued to be moms to me.. high school teachers, women I worked with, ladies from our church that were blessings in my life. They mentored me, taught me, prayed for me, strengthened me and loved me. They were the best moms!
Here's the thing though. Looking back on all these women in my life, some were not blessed with children of their own. They were not called mom, mama, mother. Some of the teachers I had were single, some of the ladies in church did not have children, some had lost children. I realize it didn't matter. These women had love to give, wisdom to share, lessons to teach if anyone would listen. These women were moms to so many.
So today I am wishing all the ladies in my life "Happy Mother's Day". The ones with children, the ones who never had children, the ones who lost children, the ones who still hope for that child...You are all important, you are all loved, you are all treasures. If you have such women in your life be thankful, take a moment to remember them. I will do the same.
Wednesday, April 3, 2013
Family, Friends, Fried Chicken and Sweet Memories
Today is my sister in laws birthday. That is a reason to celebrate, having a birthday. But it is a bittersweet day for her because two weeks ago we lost her husband to cancer. So while we celebrate her and another year, we are still mourning the loss in our family. The reality of losing him and going through the funeral is still fresh.
A week ago today the mother of a close friend passed away, so we spent the next three days with her and her family. Visitation at the funeral home, funeral and gathering after at the house.
I know by now if you read my blog you are aware that I am from the South. If someone is sick or passes away the food magically appears, that is because we want to make things better, easier for those who are going through trials. Friends call or drop by and they are usually carrying a casserole, a cake or fried chicken. What can I bring? What do you need? By the time the family gathers after the funeral there is enough food to feed a small army. Sharing a meal takes your mind off what you are feeling, just for a bit. The term "comfort food" should surely mean "that brought in after you suffer the loss of a loved one."
Some may say why do that, why get together after a funeral? It is healing for one thing. "Laughter through tears is my favorite emotion" as Truvy said in "Steel Magnolias". It is so true. While the pain is still all too real and does not go away in an afternoon, it is set aside long enough to share memories with friends and loved ones. While you may begin a story crying in grief, most times you end it with laughter or at least a smile. That is one of the sweetest things God gives us, Memories.
When we attended the funeral of my friends mom, they played several songs. One was a recording of "Dirty Dishes" by Scotty McCreery. Now many folks may think that is a silly song for a funeral, but let me tell you it was perfection. This was a woman who raised five children, and was blessed with a house full of grandchildren and great grandchildren - when the song was playing I could see the expression on the faces of family members as they surely pictured this woman and each one had their own private and special memory of her while listening to the words.
I suppose what I am saying is we have no choice but to live the life we are given. We should be open to the blessings in every part of it - even the pain. Through that pain we realize we were given a gift of a loved one, whether it is a husband, brother in law, mother or any other. The pain is real and it reminds us we are still among the living, otherwise we would not be hurting. Eventually the pain softens, I will not say it goes away, but it is replaced with sweet memories. In our mind and hearts we can be with our loved ones anytime we want. We can recall conversations we shared, walks we took together, special events in our lives, anything and everything about them. My grandmother has been gone almost 20 years and I can bring her to me anytime I choose. I can see the twinkle in her eyes, hear her voice and smell her Ponds cold cream.
Healing comes one day at a time, and however many days it takes is different with every person. But if you are fortunate to have friends and family who care, you are not alone while you travel that road. They will be there with cards, calls, to fix whatever you need, to do yard work, whatever you ask. And on a good day you can sit and perhaps share a meal and some memories - and maybe just maybe some laughter.
A week ago today the mother of a close friend passed away, so we spent the next three days with her and her family. Visitation at the funeral home, funeral and gathering after at the house.
I know by now if you read my blog you are aware that I am from the South. If someone is sick or passes away the food magically appears, that is because we want to make things better, easier for those who are going through trials. Friends call or drop by and they are usually carrying a casserole, a cake or fried chicken. What can I bring? What do you need? By the time the family gathers after the funeral there is enough food to feed a small army. Sharing a meal takes your mind off what you are feeling, just for a bit. The term "comfort food" should surely mean "that brought in after you suffer the loss of a loved one."
Some may say why do that, why get together after a funeral? It is healing for one thing. "Laughter through tears is my favorite emotion" as Truvy said in "Steel Magnolias". It is so true. While the pain is still all too real and does not go away in an afternoon, it is set aside long enough to share memories with friends and loved ones. While you may begin a story crying in grief, most times you end it with laughter or at least a smile. That is one of the sweetest things God gives us, Memories.
When we attended the funeral of my friends mom, they played several songs. One was a recording of "Dirty Dishes" by Scotty McCreery. Now many folks may think that is a silly song for a funeral, but let me tell you it was perfection. This was a woman who raised five children, and was blessed with a house full of grandchildren and great grandchildren - when the song was playing I could see the expression on the faces of family members as they surely pictured this woman and each one had their own private and special memory of her while listening to the words.
I suppose what I am saying is we have no choice but to live the life we are given. We should be open to the blessings in every part of it - even the pain. Through that pain we realize we were given a gift of a loved one, whether it is a husband, brother in law, mother or any other. The pain is real and it reminds us we are still among the living, otherwise we would not be hurting. Eventually the pain softens, I will not say it goes away, but it is replaced with sweet memories. In our mind and hearts we can be with our loved ones anytime we want. We can recall conversations we shared, walks we took together, special events in our lives, anything and everything about them. My grandmother has been gone almost 20 years and I can bring her to me anytime I choose. I can see the twinkle in her eyes, hear her voice and smell her Ponds cold cream.
Healing comes one day at a time, and however many days it takes is different with every person. But if you are fortunate to have friends and family who care, you are not alone while you travel that road. They will be there with cards, calls, to fix whatever you need, to do yard work, whatever you ask. And on a good day you can sit and perhaps share a meal and some memories - and maybe just maybe some laughter.
Monday, March 4, 2013
Apron Strings
Just a few months ago a precious friend gifted me with an apron. Now to some this may seem old fashioned or out of date. To me it was a gift of love. I use it often and keep it handy so I can easily reach for it when cooking. Each time I put it on I think of the work that went into making it. It has a bib (an added bonus when cooking), deep pockets and ric rac - it has been years since I owned anything trimmed in ric rac! That alone made it extra special. But she took it to an entirely new level by using fabric printed with wine bottles! That is a nod to the special dinners and times together with my friends enjoying a glass (or two) of our favorite wine.Aprons are a long standing staple in the home of every southern woman. I cannot remember ever seeing my grandmother when she was up and about without her apron. It was just a part of what she wore everyday and a part of who she was. It was more than protection for her skirt or dress while she was cooking. The pockets held her "hankie" and other assorted treasures. The hem of her apron was used to grasp a loose tooth of many a neighborhood child while she assured them "I am just gonna look at it". Before we knew it, the tooth was in her hand and we had something to put under our pillow that night.
The apron is also the best thing to wipe tears of a child who runs in with a skinned knee or bruise from playing in the yard - which is how we spent our days. Never inside unless it was below freezing or raining. Even then we might beg to play outside.My grandmother made biscuits everyday for her family. The extra flour on her hands was patted on the apron. When she was sitting on the porch sewing, the apron held extra thread. When we took a walk in the woods or by the creek it was where we put our rocks or moss to take back to the house and even on occasion a frog may find his way in there. If someone wanted to take a photo, she would take off her apron and smooth her hair beforehand. The photo above was captured when she was in her 80's and "taking in some sun" on the deck while enjoying lunch - and she has on her apron and her sun hat.
I am blessed to own aprons owned by both of my grandmothers, and a few from my husband's grandmother as well. They are treasured and I often wear one on special occasions. I still own the apron that was made for me when I was a child. I felt grown when I wore it to help mama cook.
Not since then has anyone made an apron just for me - until now. I love my apron and I love my friend who made it. I will consider it a precious addition to my collection of aprons and will make memories wearing it.
Wednesday, February 27, 2013
Dull to Delicious
Last night my husband wanted salmon patties for supper. You know the open the can, drain the juice off, remove the bones, batter and fry kind. That is something he enjoyed growing up and so on occasion it is dinner.
Having had one left over patty I thought it would make a good lunch for me. So today I heated that up but what to do with it then? Just a plain salmon patty wasn't all that appealing, so I put about a tablespoon of mayo in a bowl and added a squeeze of lemon juice, about 1/4 tsp. curry powder, and fresh cracked pepper - stirred that up and added that to the salmon patty on wheat bread along with fresh leaf lettuce. I got out a few pickles for my plate and some chips and there was a great meal.
Which got me thinking. Why do we sometimes have the mindset that eating a quick lunch or dinner at home (often alone) has to be boring? Open a can of soup, slap together a sandwich. Filling but not much more than that.
So here are some quick takes on how to fix that.
A can of tomato soup can be so much better if you add milk instead of water when heating, and I never use as much as they recommend. That makes for a thicker soup. While soup heats sprinkle in some basil - fresh is wonderful but dried works too. When serving the soup top it with some shredded parmesan cheese and some crunchy croutons to make it even more special.
A grilled cheese sandwich is a classic go to meal. But, why not take it up a notch by using cheddar cheese instead of American and while you are at it slice a crisp apple very thin and put it on the bread before grilling! Yummy. You can mix up your cheese and add more than one variety to make it great.
Fresh spinach is so good for you - use it like lettuce on sandwiches or wraps. If making a salad with it add some toasted pecans, strawberries or blueberries (or both!). Crumble some blue cheese on top and make your own dressing by stirring together balsamic vinegar, dijon mustard, pepper and olive oil.
Mayonnaise can become a gourmet salad spread by just thinking outside the box when making your sandwiches. Place a little in a bowl and stir in any of these herbs - dill, basil, thyme, tarragon,or curry. Tarragon and rosemary are wonderful with turkey or chicken. Dill brings out the flavor of seafood - fish sandwiches, shrimp po boy. A small kitchen herb garden will provide you with wonderful ingredients for cooking. It is a matter of adding and tasting until you get the desired results.
If you have a well stocked herb cabinet you are half way there - also good to have in your pantry are dried tomatoes, capers, pine nuts, croutons, pimentos, honey, balsamic vinegar, peppercorns and sea salt. Keep lemons or lemon juice for flavoring mayonnaise. Brown mustard or better yet dijon mustard is great for flavoring sandwich spreads - or you can use them alone. Keep shredded parmesan cheese on hand as well as fresh leaf lettuce (don't even fool with iceberg!). Fresh fruit is good on sandwiches - chop apples, grapes, in chicken or tuna salad. Pears are great in quick salads. Blue cheese and brie are good to keep as well. Buy a variety of pickles - some sweet, some kosher, some dill. Maybe some pickled okra or pepperoncini.
These are just some ideas to help you make dull meals become delicious meals. Once you start thinking about it, you will come up with your own ideas and takes on dressing up your lunch. If you gotta eat, why not make it special? After all, you deserve it!
Having had one left over patty I thought it would make a good lunch for me. So today I heated that up but what to do with it then? Just a plain salmon patty wasn't all that appealing, so I put about a tablespoon of mayo in a bowl and added a squeeze of lemon juice, about 1/4 tsp. curry powder, and fresh cracked pepper - stirred that up and added that to the salmon patty on wheat bread along with fresh leaf lettuce. I got out a few pickles for my plate and some chips and there was a great meal.
Which got me thinking. Why do we sometimes have the mindset that eating a quick lunch or dinner at home (often alone) has to be boring? Open a can of soup, slap together a sandwich. Filling but not much more than that.
So here are some quick takes on how to fix that.
A can of tomato soup can be so much better if you add milk instead of water when heating, and I never use as much as they recommend. That makes for a thicker soup. While soup heats sprinkle in some basil - fresh is wonderful but dried works too. When serving the soup top it with some shredded parmesan cheese and some crunchy croutons to make it even more special.
A grilled cheese sandwich is a classic go to meal. But, why not take it up a notch by using cheddar cheese instead of American and while you are at it slice a crisp apple very thin and put it on the bread before grilling! Yummy. You can mix up your cheese and add more than one variety to make it great.
Fresh spinach is so good for you - use it like lettuce on sandwiches or wraps. If making a salad with it add some toasted pecans, strawberries or blueberries (or both!). Crumble some blue cheese on top and make your own dressing by stirring together balsamic vinegar, dijon mustard, pepper and olive oil.
Mayonnaise can become a gourmet salad spread by just thinking outside the box when making your sandwiches. Place a little in a bowl and stir in any of these herbs - dill, basil, thyme, tarragon,or curry. Tarragon and rosemary are wonderful with turkey or chicken. Dill brings out the flavor of seafood - fish sandwiches, shrimp po boy. A small kitchen herb garden will provide you with wonderful ingredients for cooking. It is a matter of adding and tasting until you get the desired results.
If you have a well stocked herb cabinet you are half way there - also good to have in your pantry are dried tomatoes, capers, pine nuts, croutons, pimentos, honey, balsamic vinegar, peppercorns and sea salt. Keep lemons or lemon juice for flavoring mayonnaise. Brown mustard or better yet dijon mustard is great for flavoring sandwich spreads - or you can use them alone. Keep shredded parmesan cheese on hand as well as fresh leaf lettuce (don't even fool with iceberg!). Fresh fruit is good on sandwiches - chop apples, grapes, in chicken or tuna salad. Pears are great in quick salads. Blue cheese and brie are good to keep as well. Buy a variety of pickles - some sweet, some kosher, some dill. Maybe some pickled okra or pepperoncini.
These are just some ideas to help you make dull meals become delicious meals. Once you start thinking about it, you will come up with your own ideas and takes on dressing up your lunch. If you gotta eat, why not make it special? After all, you deserve it!
Thursday, February 7, 2013
Zuppa Toscana
It is raining and has been most of the day. One of those icy February chill you to the bones rain. It is staying on the trees and causing the bushes and leaves to droop. It looks and feels like winter. So what better for dinner than a wonderful hearty bowl of soup. This is one of my favorite things about cold winter days.
This recipe was inspired by the soup served at Olive Garden. I loved it so I searched out recipes and then tweaked it to make it mine.
The recipe follows:
1 lb. ground Italian sausage
1 - 1 1/2 tsp. crushed red pepper - use your own "hot meter"
1 large white onion, diced
4 Tbsp. bacon pieces - optional (and consider precooked for ease)
2 tsp. garlic puree or 1 fresh clove - mashed
8 -10 cups water ( I usually use 8)
5 chicken bouillon cubes
1 cup heavy cream (or 1 cup half and half)
1 lb. russet potatoes, thin sliced (about 4 large potatoes - do not peel)
1/4 bunch fresh kale - torn off stems
Saute Italian sausage and crushed red pepper in a large pot or dutch oven. Drain excess fat, refrigerate while preparing other ingredients. I put the sausage in a colander over a bowl when it cools - any excess grease will drain off.
In the same pan saute bacon (chop before cooking), onions and garlic over low-med. heat for approximately 10 minutes or until the onions are soft and semi-transparent. Add chicken bouillon and water and heat until it begins to boil. Add the sliced potatoes and cook until soft, about 20 minutes. Add the heavy cream to the pot on a low heat and cook until heated (do not boil). Stir in the sausage and kale, stir and heat until heated through.
Serve with hard rolls or any crusty bread and a salad. It will warm you through and through.
This recipe was inspired by the soup served at Olive Garden. I loved it so I searched out recipes and then tweaked it to make it mine.
The recipe follows:
1 lb. ground Italian sausage
1 - 1 1/2 tsp. crushed red pepper - use your own "hot meter"
1 large white onion, diced
4 Tbsp. bacon pieces - optional (and consider precooked for ease)
2 tsp. garlic puree or 1 fresh clove - mashed
8 -10 cups water ( I usually use 8)
5 chicken bouillon cubes
1 cup heavy cream (or 1 cup half and half)
1 lb. russet potatoes, thin sliced (about 4 large potatoes - do not peel)
1/4 bunch fresh kale - torn off stems
Saute Italian sausage and crushed red pepper in a large pot or dutch oven. Drain excess fat, refrigerate while preparing other ingredients. I put the sausage in a colander over a bowl when it cools - any excess grease will drain off.
In the same pan saute bacon (chop before cooking), onions and garlic over low-med. heat for approximately 10 minutes or until the onions are soft and semi-transparent. Add chicken bouillon and water and heat until it begins to boil. Add the sliced potatoes and cook until soft, about 20 minutes. Add the heavy cream to the pot on a low heat and cook until heated (do not boil). Stir in the sausage and kale, stir and heat until heated through.
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| Brown the ground sausage until completely cooked. |
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| Cut potatoes in half and then half again, slice thin. |
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| Saute onion, bacon and garlic. |
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| After potatoes cook, add sausage and kale. |
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| Finished product! Enjoy. |
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