The Little Yellow Slicker

The woman had been very ill for some time now. She really felt close to leaving this world. All of this resulted from a broken heart. This woman
had been married for twenty-five years to a rather selfish man. She had, from the beginning of the marriage, made the fact known to him, that she desired a child more than anything. But, as the years passed, the husband
decided that they did not need a child around, after all.

This turn of events brought on much sadness and depression for the woman. It became harder and harder for her to function on a day to day basis. Soon she was spending almost all of her time either praying for the child she desperately wanted, or she was asking her Higher Power for a miraculous healing. The selfish husband left home one day on the pretense of going to work, but never returned. She soon received legal papers requesting a divorce from him. Now she was finally all alone.

Not having family or friends nearby, the woman decided to go for a nice, long walk one morning, to clear her head. It had been raining all night, and there was
still a fine drizzle coming down. Taking the long country road in front of her house that led to the main highway, she spotted something yellow and shiny in the road. As she came closer, she saw a little girl who looked to be about four years old, playing in a puddle. Besides wearing a little shiny yellow slicker raincoat, she also wore an oversized hat and the high boots to match the raincoat. The woman looked all around, and saw no one else nearby. What was a little child so young doing out in the rain all by herself? The woman reluctantly approached the child and asked her if she was waiting for someone? The little girl said that the other nice lady had told her that a woman would soon come walking down this road, and that she was to go home with her.

Of course, the woman was puzzled. But she took the child by the hand and they walked back to her house. The woman told the little girl to take off her rain gear while she made them cups of hot chocolate. The child started looking the house over. She came to the woman's bedroom and looked in her closets. She then asked the woman if she had a little girl. The woman said no, and came into the room with the child. "Well, you sure have a lots of girl's clothes! I can wear all of these!" While the woman was trying to figure out things, such as where the girl's clothes had come from, an angel appeared in the kitchen as they went back to drink the chocolate. The child was unaware of the angel's presence, but the woman heard her say, "This is your daughter. You need never be alone again. God answered your prayers today. You will also be in good health. Enjoy your daughter; you and she will be together for many years to come."

Chip (off the 'ole block)

A young man brought the tiny kitty-cat to the neighborhood garage, where he thought someone would feed and take care of him. The mother cat had been hit by a car, and others had taken the remaining three kitties. The owner of the garage named the little kitten 'Chip'. Someone asked him why the name 'Chip'? He answered that he once had another cat named 'Chip', and maybe this little one would grow up to be just like him. The old 'Chip
was real special.

Chip became so well loved by the owner of the garage, his friends and all of his customers that often stopped by. One very kind man even took Chip to the vet a few times. Everyone that saw or knew Chip loved him dearly and
he loved everyone. He would jump in the man's lap that took him to the vet. Chip seemed to have a special fondness for him. He did some special and unusual things for attention. Chip had a way of putting his paws together and bowing his head as if in prayer when he really wanted someone to notice him. He was such a bouncy, lively, and playful kitty.

When Chip was about three months old, he started to show signs of being ill.
The man that usually took him to the vet was himself involved in a fender-bender and couldn't get to see how Chip was doing for a few days. He hoped some of the other people whom Chip had entertained and loved would act in his stead and see that Chip get some medical attention.

The owner finally took off some time from his busy schedule to take Chip to the vet. Although Chip was given an injection and a pill, nothing worked.
The next morning, Chip was found dead. Apparently, he had passed during the night. The owner of the garage found him with his little head bowed, and his paws together in a praying position. He was so sad, and he didn't have the heart to bury Chip alone. He called the man who always took Chip to the vet, and along with some of the others, they saw to it that their wee
friend and buddy was given a proper and decent burial, right in the yard of the garage where he had spent his short, but seemingly, happy life.

Soldier In The Rain

Walking to a neighborhood store one evening as darkness crept forth, I
happened to see a young soldier standing near the bus stop. Rain was beginning to fall, slowly at first. He had no hat or umbrella to protect him from the sudden downpour. When he spotted me nearby, he started to cry.
I asked him if there was something I could do for him.

He answered that the rain had a cleansing effect on him. "I have seen so much
death and misery, unnecessary hatred, families torn apart; I can't get it out of my mind. The rain is a kind of therapy for me. It helps to wash
away the negative baggage that eats away at my soul."

"You asked me if there's anything you can do to help? Yes, you can show
kindness to soldiers like me who sometimes feel all the burdens of humankind. Please listen to us whe we are speaking these thoughts. You,
along with the rain, have helped much more than anyone can imagine. He
thanked me for listening to him. As I walked away, I glanced back to see
the soldier fall to his knees and lift up his face to the rainy sky.

Bullying

Being a bully is not a nice position to be in. Making a point of hurting others, and seeming to really enjoy doing that,is a sad conception within itself. These 'Bully Types' are insecure and more likely than not, suffer
from low self-esteem issues. They are hurting on the inside, so they must
make someone else pay for their misery. How Pitiful is that?

It's really a vicious cycle. The Bullies would never admit it to anyone,but
they need lots of love and affection. They prey on others whom they think are weaker than they are. Bullies, let go of 'the hate zone' and look for
love and acceptance. Open up to it. Love and peace are waiting for you!

Dogs and Toys

It is so strange to me how my dogs relate to their toys. They never want to play with anything unless the other one has it. For awhile, the toy starts a tug-o-war. Choca thinks everything in the yard is his, and if he's in a pleasant mood, he'll share with Slick. Then, Choca seems to time Slick's interaction with the toy. He watches and waits for his chance to grab it from Slick.

The dogs remind me so much of young children. They are so adorable, just like the children. The dogs are so much fun to watch and try to figure out the next move. I must act as a referee when I bring toys outside. Otherwise, a fight is in the cards.

My ultimate goal is to teach the dogs to play with their toys without a fight, and also, to respect each other's property. I have a ways to go yet, but with preserverance, we're going to make it.

Collectibles

There are so many things worth collecting. Fun things, like mugs, spoons,
clowns, ashtrays, candleholders, etc. I am a hopeless 'starter of collections', but I never finish any one collection. I am never focused on just one thing for too long.

Some years ago, I started a clown collection. Can about ten ceramic clowns be called a serious collection? I think not! I still haven't given up, though. Even writing this little tidbit hopefully will give me some inspiration to start anew. I'll get a nice gathering of clowns to show yet.

I also like small glass or ceramic items in lime green, cobalt blue, and cherry red. Now, I really have my work cut out for myself.

My Perfect Soulmate

Throughout my life, whenever I'm sad, or a bit out of sorts, I fall asleep and suddenly I'm with the most amazing companion! I'm always being loved, held closely, and being softly caressed. In these times, I am always fulfilled. There are no empty places in my being.

Every need or want is instantly satisfied to capacity. Heaven must be like that. With this soulmate by my side, I am romping on the beach, being led up a gorgeous hiking trail, in the company of my most extraordinary companion.

Whenever I feel the need for physical and/or emotional attention, I go to sleep and instantly reconnect with my perfect soulmate. I personally think this is God's lovely way of letting me know He is always with me. He never leaves or forsakes me. He is my all and all, throughout Eternity!

Get A Colonoscopy Test A Preventive Meaure

People fifty years old and over should schedule for a colonscopy screening. It is a relatively simple procedure. The body should be cleansed thoroughly the day before the test by consuming only clear liquids; lots of water, apple juice, broth, bullion, jello, (with the exception of grape and all red flavors). Light-colored sodas can also be consumed. Then there's the jug of liquid laxative to be taken.

Whatever facility is used, a complete registration is done. Then you wait your turn, you're put to sleep, and the whole thing is finished in about an hour.
It's so easy! It also takes a lots of undue stress away. I had it done. So can you!

ramblinon-mamie96: Garden Soup

ramblinon-mamie96: Garden Soup

Garden Soup

We really made a soup from our garden. A bit of beef and stock for flavoring; carrots, onions, cabbage, green beans, potatoes, okra and tomatoes, all simmered together for one hour, made a nice meal.

For dessert; pears and peaches from a neighbor; some store-bought crusts, and a few flavorings and spices made a cobbler to die for! So easy!

Disabled Parents (part 4)

After relocating to South Carolina to help in the day-to-day care of Mom, my husband, daughter, and I did the best we could in assisting the family. I stayed with her at night because everyone else had to get up very early in the mornings to go to work. Mom never slept but an hour or two, at the most, at a time. When she didn't sleep much, she constantly called me during the night. I was always so tired. Also, I was having trouble falling asleep when I did get an opportunity to get some much needed rest.

Once, when I took Mom to the clinic for her checkup, the doctor took one look at me and said that I needed to get away from Mom for a while. He said that as a caregiver, I was neglecting the most important aspect; taking care of myself so that I might be better able to care for my Mother. I then asked my family if they could relieve me more, because I needed extra time for myself.

I learned so much about myself and my family at that time. Do the things that you can and don't be afraid to ask for help when things become too stressful. Pray a lot to ask for guidance from above. Only then can situations get better and things can be easier for everyone involved.

Return of the Wanderers

The wandering dogs returned home the same day, which was highly unusual for them. They mostly always pull a one or two nighter. They were so hot and tired from their little getaway until they basically slept for at least two days. Choca and Slick will be on their best behaviors for a while until it enters their mind to go rogueing again.

I love both dogs so very much. They are undeniably a part of our family. I'm never contented until they are safe behind our fence. But they enjoy roaming the woods near us. They now have a taste of chasing birds, sniffing everything they come across, and simply expressing their curiosity. I really need to put the dogs to some chores. They have so much energy!

Choca is the leader of the two dogs. He keeps Slick in lots of trouble. Choca does all or most of the digging out of the fence. He's constantly checking to see if there's a hole in the fence that's left unguarded. He makes a beeline for that hole and persuades Slick to join him. Of course, Slick is Choca's little flunkey. He seems to do whatever Choca wants him to do. I am so happy they're home for now!

Rogue Dogs At It Again!

Those two naughty dogs of ours are at it again! I goes into the house for an hour or so, and when I went back outside to check on them, bang! They had made their great escape. I am so angry with them right now. I certainly do not want the dog catcher to pick them up. Of course, that would never enter into their little pea brains.

I realize the dogs, Choca and Slick, want to be free. Who doesn't? Our job is to care for them and protect them from all harm, including the dog catcher, hunger, other vicious dogs that runs loose and travel in packs. Our dogs wouldn't stand a chance with those kinds of dogs.

When Choca and Slick goes missing, they usually stay gone overnight. They make it home the next morning all dirty, tired, and dehydrated. Choca is always the initiator of their little romps out of the fence. Slick is his loyal follower. I just wish they would find themselves back home as soon as is possible. We really and truly miss those impish mutts.

Eating Of Our Labors

Yesterday was a day of Thanksgiving for a very bountiful harvest. We trimmed and cleaned
the flat Italian beans, cooked them. Wow! were they great-tasting. We also cooked white potatoes from our garden. Fresh garden tomatoes were on yesterday's menu, too. The day before; on Saturday, I had prepared the bottle-neck yellow squash with white onions and a large
orange bell pepper. I used olive oil for a quick sauteeing.

I will chop some vegetables and chunks of chicken breast with shrimp and some catfish nuggets for a quick meal served with couscous. The meat and vegetables will be thoroughly marinated with lime juice, garlic powder, salt, red crushed pepper, and fresh parsley.

Real soon, we will have okra, hot peppers, butterbeans and green bell peppers to harvest. Our plum tree did not do so well this year. If we're here next year, we plan to have a bumper crop of plums and I would love to try my hand at growing blueberries, too. They seem a cinch to grow.

Dream Warning!

It was in the year 1973, and we were living in the slums of Brooklyn, NY. Our apartment was on the third floor of an old tenement building. There were two other families living in the building.
We had recently purchased a color tv. They were not common in our neighborhood. Black and white tv was still the accepted norm. My husband would often invite our downstairs neighbor upstairs to watch baseball or football. The color tv was enjoyable to all of us.

One day, after taking my older daughter to school, straightening up the apartment, and picking up a few items from the store, I decided to take a quick nap in my daughter's room. I would get up in time to pick her up from school. While I was asleep, I dreamed that someone was going to break into our apartment. "Get up and get out right now!" The voice from my dream was saying, loud and clear.
When I became fully awake, the warning was still echoing in my mind. "Get out of here. Someone is going to break into your home!" I even thought about going to the police precinct,
but I didn't dare. They probably would have laughed at me. On a dream? The police couldn't have acted on that information, could they?

I moved quickly and left home real fast. I visited with a neighbor for about an hour or so. I wanted to talk to her about the dream. But I decided to keep it to myself. I picked up my daughter from school, and we took our time walking home. I didn't want to frighten my daughter so I didn't mention the dream to her. When we climbed the three flights of stairs to our floor, the apartment door was ajar. I know I did not leave it like that. I'm so very sure I locked that door. I was afraid to enter into the first room. We ran down the stairs, across the street to a friend's barbershop and asked him if he would come in the apartment with us. He assured us that he would do what he could.

Sure enough, someone had been in our home and taken the color tv. We looked and searched
around, but that was the only item missing. The place was in shambles. Drawers were emptied
on the floors. So much was scattered about. But to this day, I often think of that warning from the dream. It probably saved our lives to not to have been there when whomever it was that decided to break in on that afternoon. Our guardian Angel was certainly looking out for our family. I give much thanks.

Disabled Parents

Mom was felled with a stroke in April of 1990. I came here from New York two times to assist in her care. The first time I took a week of vacation days off from my job at a certain bank where I had been employed at that time for nine years. My Supervisor wasn't so pleased at my absence because we were quite busy in our department.

The second time I asked for a month off to come to South Carolina to assist in Mom's care, and also to straighten out some business affairs. My Supervisor was furious that I had the gall to ask for more time off in such a short period after I had taken the first week off. (All of this happened before the Family Leave Act was initiated, I believe, in 1994.) I took the remaining of my vacation time, which was one week, plus, I took three weeks of unpaid leave. Of course I was in trouble with one of the managers when I went back to work.

My Manager said that I was on an Unauthorized Leave for that month, because if he had been at the bank and not on a business trip himself, he would not have granted me that time off, even if it was to care for my Mother. His reason being that Mom was not a part of my immediate household, and she resided in another state. My reasoning was she was still my Mom even if she lived on the other side of the moon. continued Part 3

Disabled Parents

We requested a truck to move our belongings to South Carolina to help in the care for my mother. When the truck finally arrived after waiting for two weeks, we realized it was not large enough for everything we had on our moving list. We decided to give our neighbors some of the things that we didn't have room for. Everything worked out well, and we arrived safely to our destination. Mom was not as happy to see us as she had sounded on the 'phone. We were at once sorry we had made the trip. But, I kept telling myself, it will be okay.

We settled in the routine of caring for Mom on a daily basis. Mom was very sick and depressed.
Nothing we could say or do would make her satisfied or at least contented. There were times when she would refuse to eat. Most days Mom was so uncooperative. Her doctor said that was the effects of strokes and dementia. We just had to deal with it. I felt so sad for Mom because she cried when she realized that she couldn't go fishing or go for long walks with her friends.

Because of our Mom's illness, we siblings would keep at each other's throats, thinking that some weren't doing what they could for Mom. Now I know we were all making the most of a grave situation. We all loved Mom so much, but we all had different and unique family dynamics to deal with, also. That was a stressful time for the whole family of us. But we did what we could. (Continued) Part 2

When A Parent Becomes Disabled

When I received a call from my sister in South Carolina saying that my mother had suffered a stroke, I would never have imagined what it would mean to me. Aside from bemoaning the fact that my very independent mother was at once disabled, and totally dependent on us (her adult children), we could not have forseen all of the problems we would have to work through.

My mother was truly remarkable in that she insisted on living alone since her second husband had passed away in 1976. The year was now 1990. There I was, the oldest daughter, living and working in New York, along with my husband and two daughters. My oldest daughter had already moved out and was living on her own. The youngest of our girls was about twelve years old at that time. After visiting my mother twice during her illness, (once in the hospital, and for a month after she was discharged from rehabilitation) she wanted my family to relocate and stay with and care for her.

I was so torn at first. Of course, I wanted to help mom in her illness, but I also wanted to stay and work in New York. I was forty-nine years old, and my husband was fifty-one years old at that time. We realized that it was going to be difficult starting all over again. Rather than being riddled with guilt and regrets from not doing what we could for mom, we reluctantly resigned from our jobs, tied up as many loose ends as we could manage, rented a truck, packed all our belongings, and we were off. We had already prayed and left the overwhelming situation in God's hands. (continued) Part 1

Happy Mother's Day

Happy Mother's Day! to the young and older mothers. It takes such a special lady to be a 'real, genuine, and sincere, lovable, and patient, mom.' I'm really proud of my daughter. I give her all the credit for being one mother in a million. She really love her two children , AND SHE SHOWS IT TO THEM IN MANY WAYS.

They are probably too young to appreciate her now, but in a few more years, I pray they really realize just what they have for a mother. A very, very special person, indeed. Daughter always put the children's needs before her own. She thinks of many small things to make her children feel wanted and loved.

I think she's so special and I tell her often so she can feel appreciated now, not when her children are all grown-up and have children of their own. Again, Happy Mother's Day to all the mothers out there in this great, big 'ol world; especially to my loving daughter(s). Happy Mother's Day!!!!!!

An Old Summer Squash Recipe

As a child living in the country, we had a few gardens dispersed around in the areas nearest the house. In those gardens we planted the vegetables that we enjoyed eating on a regular basis. Squash certainly was one of our favorites. We mostly ate it fried in butter or in bacon oil.

There was one recipe that my Mom acquired from from a friend of hers for squash. My Mom tried making it, but, as I recall, no one in the house cared much for it. The yellow squash should be cut down length-wise. Then place the squash in boiling water with some salt. After boiling for some ten minutes, remove the squash, let it cool. Scrape the inside pulp out of the shells of the squash in a bowl. Mix the pulp with saltine crackers, eggs, grated cheddar cheese, onions, and
peanut butter.

Spoon the mixture into the squash shells, sprinkle with more grated cheddar cheese, and bake in a preheated oven with 350 degrees for about fifteen minutes. Enjoy! if you like squash, and most of all, If you like peanut butter!

Reminiscing About The Subways

I was thinking about all the times I rode the subways in New York. Now, when I really depended on the 'trains' to get me around town, and also to my job, I wasn't too fond of using them for all of my transporting. I didn't drive at the time, (twenty years ago), so the subways were THE mode of transportation for me.

Now, since I relocated, and no longer have subways available, I discovered that I miss the rides.
When I went shopping, and didn't buy such a load of goods, I would get the train and leave the driving to the conductor. Sometimes I would listen to music or read during the trip.

If I was tired from a hectic day at the Bank where I worked, I could even take a short snooze on the way to or from work. Of course, I risked missing my destination if I slept, but that was the chance I took. The lull of the ride, the train rocking back and forth, It was definitely siesta-time!

Sometimes, I really do miss riding those subways!

Where's Justice?

Where's justice when some are born in such poverty, while others have so much, that they can swim in wealth. Some seem to have been born to the wrong parents, who decides to either sell them, put them out for adoption, abandon their babies,or their lives are so screwed up until it's impossible for them to care for their children.

The wealthy ones doesn't have a clue as to how the poor and forgotten folks survive on a daily basis. It has been noted in The Scriptures that the poor shall reside here always. Where is the justice in that? I would, for just a year, like to experience my life with money; never having to worry over bills being paid, kids possibly going hungry, etc.

If only prosperity could be experienced by every person, in all walks of life. What joys to behold!
No wishing for extra clothing or food, being able to assist others at any time my help is needed.
Justice would be right up there in the forefront doing what she does best; upholding the forgotten and the undertrodden.
.

Grilling Out!

There's something so special about grilling outdoors. The food has such a significence to it. Usually the meat and vegetables have been prepped and marinated in advance. When the charcoal get to be just so, then the grilling starts. Some turning at intervals, and mopping with a special sauce or marinade to keep the food from drying out, will help to keep the flavors sealed in.

I like to eat fresh grilled baby-back ribs, chicken quarter parts, burgers, good beef sausage, etc.
Lamb chops, steaks, goat meat, even seafood, are all delicious when they're cooked just right and seasoned and grilled to perfection. Keep the charcoal at a good, even temperature. Never cook when the charcoal is blazing too high.

Vegetables, such as onions, corn, red, yellow, green, and the orange- colored peppers, squash, eggplant, tomatoes, zuchinni, etc, all taste wonderful when they are cut in large chunks, or left whole, marinated, or seasoned really well and cooked slightly. Do not overcook the vegetables.
You just want that grilled, outdoorsy taste. When the food comes off the grill, sit back and enjoy!

Ah, Ah, It's Spring!!

When I can look about in any given direction, and see greenery of the of the brightest kind, beautiful and radiant blossoms in all colors and hues, well, then, I know for sure it's springtime!
Everything is just totally lovely to behold.

Yesterday, I worked in our garden and the sky was so blue and clear; the sun was warm but, not too. It felt wonderful pulling the soil around and weeding out unwanted growth. All in all, a superb day to be alive. I simply adore the spring season!

The pollen has cleared considerably; it is now in a manageable state. The last rain washed tons of it away. We are back to a normal and awesome spring time. I realize that pollen plays a vital role in the nature of the blossoming flowers and beautiful trees, etc, but, I can't compute it in its rightful order. The Creator of the Universe knows where the pollen fits in. I'm sure the springtime wouldn't be the same without it (pollen).

Pollen! It's Everywhere!

There's pollen on our cars, on the porch, on my shoes; well, you get the picture. Pollen is everywhere! We're waiting for a good ole' downpour to help us wash this 'yellow pest' away.
Every year the amount of pollen increases because the trees that produce the stuff continues to grow. Twenty years ago when we relocated to our present dwelling, all of the trees, especially the pines, were only a few feet tall. I remember only a light dusting of pollen during those years.

Today, almost twenty years later, these same trees are almost immeasurable. The buds that produce the pollen are huge. I love springtime, but the pollen and I are constantly in conflict. I am always trying to avoid it because of severe headaches, facial breakouts, itchy skin, red and runny eyes and noses, etc.

I don a mask and hat when I go outside to do a 'pollen' cleanup. This is performed every other day. I decided that it would be useless to try and clean up pollen every day. Each time I start
cleaning, the pollen seems to have multiplied. Oh well! Pollen is one of many natural occurences that we have absolutely no control over. This too, will pass. Nothing lasts forever. I look forward to some springtime without pollen. It can happen, you know.

Bumpy Clouds

I was bumping along on a cloud, feeling so relaxed. I felt radiant and beautiful throughout. I did not have to think of anything at all. I merely concentrated on becoming one with my surroundings. There was beauty emanating from every direction; as far as my eyes could see.

As I floated along, I began to slowly pass by some familiar scenes and faces. I saw my old childhood homeplace. I envisioned myself as a little girl playing in that very yard with my sisters and brothers. We were quite a rough and tumble bunch. We fought each other as much as we loved and adored each other. The arguing and fighting seemed to have kept us real close.

I also passed by all of the pets we had as children. There was old Snowball, Blackie, Shaggy, and Sputnik's One and Two. Our favorite parakeets were named Peppy, Lolly and Molly, and Penny-Poo, etc. Not to mention Rhoda, our large horse, and Elsa, our pet cow, with her baby calf,
Beauregard. We had a knack for spoiling all of our animals.

Why was I bumping along on a cloud? Poof! Poof! Poof! It was ONLY A DREAM!!

"Get Lost!" Versus "Feeling Lost"

The verbal order, "Get Lost!" connotates negativity in that it really means for one to literally disappear, or simply get out of the speaker's sight. Whether it is meant for a prolonged period of time or if it means only for a short time, it sometimes can be very hurtful.

"Feeling Lost" is a personal dilemma that one has to deal with on one's own. You can be a part of a large crowd of people, and still experience that 'lost' feeling. Sometimes we're not around people that hold our own interests at heart. So we sort of crawl into our self-made shell and shut ourselves away mentally from our surroundings.

We can also use the term "Get Lost" as a command for ourselves to just get away from everything familiar. Get lost in a different environment, with strange people, or do some trail hiking in an unfamiliar state or country. There are many aspects of 'Getting Lost.' Some can have exciting consequences. Work your mind to your advantage.

Alzheimer's Disease Baffling!

Alzheimer's disease is very baffling.It can make it's presence known so subtely. A friend of mine whom I had not seen for awhile, started to experience some startling symptons. I went to visit her one afternoon. She had already retired to her bedroom. I announced myself, and she invited me in, but she asked me to please close the door to her room because it was snowing outside. Well, just coming from outdoors, I was well aware that it was not snowing.



I glanced at her television and the screen was showing a snowy scene 'way up in the mountains.

My friend was getting the tv scenes mixed up with reality. She even asked me to start a fire in the stove in her room and make her some cornbread and vegetable soup. She said she wanted something nourshing so she could enjoy the snowfall. My friend glanced over at me and thanked me for cooking the food. Before I could tell her that I wasn't cooking anything, she fell asleep.

On my way out, I spoke with her daughter and son-in-law. They filled me in as to what they were going through in caring for her. But they were doing their utmost to give her the best care under their circumstances.

Alzheimer's is a baffling and devastating disease. It robs one of their soul. They become only a shell of the person they once were. The time can't come soon enough for a cure to be found.

With the researchers and the medical associations focusing on this critical issue, answers should be coming to the general public in the very near future.

I Love The Rain!

Today promises to be a rainy day. I love when it rains. The world appears to look fresher and cleaner. I feel so relaxed and at peace with everyone. Nothing seems to faze me when it is raining. This serene time gives me the opportunity to catch up on reading, writing, sleeping, or just slacking off.

What ever I decide to do, or not do, I'm completely at ease with the Universe when it's raining.
I like to see nature stand at attention ; the shrubs and trees bowing down with the winds that accompany the showers. I prefer to be indoors looking out, but if I'm caught in the rain, then that's okay, too.

I know the gardens cannot survive without rain, and neither can anything else. We are all at the mercy and grace of the beautiful rainfalls. I personally sit or lie back and simply enjoy the rain. Let the precious water come on down. Let it rain!

Genealogy

I am doing some research; trying to solve the puzzle of putting some missing branches on Hubby's Family Tree. Sometimes the search seems fruitless and hopeless. Again, I get a tidbit of information and that satisfies me for awhile. I've been at this for two days consistently. I hope I get a major breakthrough soon.

I'm searching for some half brothers and sisters. My hubby just recently realized that these people may be his father's children. I volunteered to do the search. I shall give it a good try.
Something great may come from this venture yet! I did find some other family members during my search that I was not looking for. They just popped up.

If I'm blessed, the individuals I'm searching for will show up soon, too, without any fanfare. I'm anticipating a bit of magic in doing this search. I expect the information to literally to hang itself on the branches of the Family Tree. I'm still at it. We'll have to wait and see.

Rogue Dogs Returned Home

When I stepped off the back porch this Saturday morning, who should I see first thing?;
Choca and Slick, standing by the steps. I was so shocked and surprised to see the both of them together. The dogs were also very happy to see me. They both jumped on me at the same time; trying to hug and kiss me. Somehow, I had a feeling they would return home. I just didn't know when.

I gave them a nice breakfast and some fresh water. The dogs both seemed to be confused to be back home. We watched them for awhile and they appeared to be lost. Wherever they stayed for that week seemed to have taken a toll on them. The both of them are just barely dragging themselves around. Their strength and energy have been depleted.

I know we must be patient, give Choca and Slick a lots of love, good food, and over time, they'll be back to their old selves again. They both like to run and play constantly when they're in top form. They're home in body; hopefully the spirit will catch up to them real soon. Welcome home, babies!

Straight-Up Pineapple Cake

The first thing I thought of this morning, after showering and having my favorite breakfast, (a medium banana, and a glass of soy milk), I prefer the PLAIN soy milk; I wanted to make a cake. Any kind would be sufficient. My Hubby prefers pineapple upside down cakes, but I've tried baking them so many times with mediocre results.

Hubby had to laugh when I told him about my bright idea; I would make him a straight-up pineapple cake! How's that? He asked. Well, I'll put the pineapples and cherries on the TOP of the sheet cake before baking, instead of on the bottom and turning it upside-down after it's baked.

When my creation was done, the finished product looked normal to me. Hubby stared at the cake for some time before getting the gumption to cut it. After sampling a nice slice, he announced that my straight-up cake lived up to it's name. It was straight-up in all aspects. It really was great tasting!

Doggone Dogs Are Gone!

The dogs are gone! They escaped late Thursday night. While we were sleeping, Choca and Slick, our dogs, dug out of the fenced back yard. Of course, Choca is the alpha, or leader dog. Slick is the follower. It has been almost a week now since we've seen the two of them. I miss the scoundrels so much.

We're always looking and listening out for our 'two furry babies'. I hope they find their way back home. We had just got new tags from the Vet for them. We didn't put them on their necks in the back yard because the dogs liked to pull on each other's collar and tag.

I have been told that when dogs get out of the yard and go away, they always return on the nineth day. I don't know if that's facts, or if it's based on some superstitious notions, but I'm hoping that we see the dogs here at home real soon.
Another one of our favorite dogs ran away many years ago, and he really did come back home on the nineth night!

Life Without Grandpa

Grandpa and Mama started to have differences as soon as she chose to marry my father.
When Grandpa realized Father was eight years older than his only daughter, my mother, he immediately stopped all contact with she and father. Still, Mama honored her father by naming her firstborn after him.

Father and Mama had five live babies, and two stillborn babies. As we grew up, Grandpa would pass us on the streets and he refused to speak to or acknowledge us in any way. Some of the other children around the area would tell us some things about our Grandpa, but we knew absolutely nothing. Mama wouldn't talk about him. She just became angry every time she heard his name.

Then, one day Grandpa decided to visit us. We were more than surprised. He didn't quite know how to act around us. He and Mama went off to themselves and talked and talked. It was as if they were trying to make up for all the time they had lost by not communicating all those years. After that, Grandpa came to our house every day.
If he didn't show up after a certain hour, Mama would go looking for him. This continued about ten years until his death. We all became so close. But, we still missed not having Grandpa in our lives when we were small kids. Better late than never, though!!

Can You Imagine?

A place where there's no bills to be owed and paid, where the weather is always ideal, no home to keep clean. No stress about purchasing food, and it's preparations. A place where a car is never needed; other means of transportation will always be available.

Schools, as we perceive them now, will become a thing of the past. That time is fast approaching. Acquiring knowledge will be instant and final. What will be introduced to the brain will be forever retained. Being forgetful isn't an option.

Health issues will become obsolete; no one will ever have ailments or troublesome illnesses. Health, peace, and happiness will be the order of everyday, and for everyone. The monetary system will no longer be. It will have priced itself out of existence. Money will be blowing in the wind, in the gutters, and no one will pay attention to it because it (money) will become valueless. Can You Imagine?
Well, I can!

Picnics in The Glen

A picnic in a beautiful wooded surrounding, cool fresh air, and brilliant sunshine all speak of ultimate relaxation and easy conversations. Good to excellent food must also be figured into the equation.

I could easily pass up sandwiches in exchange for salads, grilled meats, fruits, cheeses, and assorted crackers. Home-baked cookies and a fresh limeade would finish the meal off smashingly.

Good conversations before, during, and after the picnic meal, then taking a leisurely stroll through the glen, or woods, makes for a really enjoyable pastime.
Choose a clear spot, and beware of the number one picnic pest; the ant!

Reminiscing

When I was about five years old, I came down with diphtheria,an acute bacterial infection that is chacterized by weakness and high fevers. It also causes a tough, membrane-like obstruction that interferes with the breathing passages. I had quite a long hospital stay.

I remember lasping into a coma after I had been there almost a month. But, I also remember hearing my Great Grandmother yelling and screaming to the doctors that I was dead. When she realized that I was still alive, Great Grandma calmed right down. The point here is that even in a comatose state, the hearing is as sharp as ever in some individuals. I could hear, but could not respond.

The day the doctors dismissed me, my mother and uncle, who had come to take me home, were headed out the door when they realized I wasn't following behind them. I could not walk. The doctors did not give me therapy on my legs or feet before I was to go home. My uncle carried me to the car, and into the house when we reached home. I relearned to walk by pushing a chair in front of me and holding on while I made small steps. Where there's a will, a way will be made!

Extend Kindness to Everyone

Being kind to everyone is easier than you may think. Even the ones who are having a tough time adjusting to the day's events. They may even disagree and balk about comments regarding the weather. Continue to smile broadly and think positive thoughts; also, say positive words. Negative words can always be turned around to mean something really nice. Positiveness can be very contagious.

Reach out to everyone you may happen to come in contact with, whenever possible. A tender smile, an offer of helping with small articles, offering necessary information, etc. Always be ready to smile and carry extra umbrellas, raincaps, candies, gum, etc. We're all on this planet together. Let us strive to make the most of it.

There are personal benefits in extending kindnesses to everyone we can. We experience wonderful feelings that lasts and lasts. The more we reach out to others, the more we will want to reach out. Goodness and kindness actually multiplies. Let us all perform some 'multiplication
goodness each day'!!

Desructions And Devastations On Our Earth

There are so many destructive weather patterns, and devastating natural disasters. What's going on? None of us are safe. We must live each day with our hearts in the right place. Love one another while we have the chance. Tomorrow isn't promised to any of us.

So many of these natural phenomenon happens when we are asleep for the night. Therefore, we never hear the warnings, if the weather personnel have the time themselves to issue these warnings. We must pray and thank God for each and every time He allows us to wake up to a brand new day. We must not take anything for granted.

The very air we breathe is measured by our God. Give Him the thanks and praise for all things. God is still in control of everything. His acts are very powerful. Let us who are alive and well, pray for Grace and Mercy to our Creator

Take A Hike!

I absolutely love hiking in the woods. I can't do it very often because I don't care to go it alone.
Whenever I can persuade anyone to walk with me, well, I feel as though I've just hit the jackpot.
Hubby and I were in the woods for a stroll the other day. It was so very windy and cold, but, still, I enjoyed the time we hiked that day.

I was ready to go in the woods again the next day, but Hubby had other things to do. I will go again the very second I get another walking partner that's willing to make some steps with me.
The trees are georgeous to look at, small animals are scampering across your feet, minute patches of the sky can be seen between the tall trees when you look up.

I am a true nature lover. Just to hear the dry leaves, small twigs, and other debris from the woods crackling underneath your feet, are noises that can be invisioned, even if you're nowhere near the woods. A hour or so hike in the woods is so refreshing. Afterwards, there's nothing you feel you can't do. Try it sometimes. I know you will love it!

Is Marriage for Everyone?

Marriage is not for everyone. If one is free-spirited and care free overall, he or she should think over the decision before getting married super carefully. Being married requires lots of give and take on the part of both partners. There are personal interests one may develop over time, but if it starts to detract time from the husband or children, one must reconsider his or her intentions.

The union of marriage is ordained by our Creator. When a wedding takes place, a covernant, or an agreement, is made between the two creatures, along with their Creator. If no sacrifice, unselfishness, labor, or love, etc, goes into a marriage, nothing but heartache and turmoil can be expected to come out of it.

Children are gifts from our Creator. They are so precious. They really are extensions of Mom and Pop. We are their very first teachers. So, beware, Parents. Whatever you say, you will find it being repeated at the most unexpected times. It doesn't matter if things were said in jest or in a more serious tone, it will be repeated just the same.

There is no institution on earth quite like the instution of marriage. But, think carefully about what you are getting into. No one knows what lies ahead; seek premartial conselling to obtain a sneak preview. You just may not take the plunge.

Spring is Approaching!

We are experiencing a wonderful winter this year, but, of course, I'm rallying for the springtime. That is my favorite of all the four seasons. The trees put on new wardrobes of glossy green attire and elegant blossoms. The floral scents from the budding flowers and trees can be intoxicating. The birds are busy building nests and starting new families; as we shake off the last of the winter doldrums, we start to plan our Spring projects.

Planting a garden is tops on the 'will do' list. This spring, I would like to plant tomatoes in large, individual containers. We have always raised them in the typical garden rows. I wish to experiment somewhat. I will do eggplants, orange and red bell peppers, okra, ect. It is always fun to watch and work with growing things. Plus, there's so much reward in reaping the harvest.

Spring cleaning is another not-so-fun project, but it should be attempted, anyway. Closets to be sorted out; also drawers full of socks, scarves and hair barettes, etc., need to be sorted, and what's not being used should be donated to a worthy cause. Curtains and windows should be cleaned and/or changed. Spring represents many changes and many chores. They can only get done if we're dilligent and self-motivated. Let us carry on.

Red Velvet Cake

My interpretation of Red Velvet Cake is that it is the 'jewel' of all cakes if it's prepared and baked just so. The texture must be moist, but firm enough to handle when cutting and serving.
The icing should be rich, creamy and velvety smooth. An even more special treat is to lightly roast pecans, then crush them up and add to the frosting before applying it to the cake. Ah, sumptious!

A friend of mine made my family a Red Velvet Cake for a special occasion. What a wonderful surprise! First, I had no idea that my friend could cook, much less make such a jewel of a cake.
We enjoyed that cake to the very last crumb! Kudos to the Chef! May all your cakes turn out that great from here on in!

The Quietest Snow

The snow that fell Friday, the 12th of February, 2010, was such a calm and beautiful act of nature, that it left such a wonderful impression on all of us. We didn't quite know what to make of it. A few pine branches fell in the front yard and in the garden area.

Driving was never a problem for anyone who could actually drive in the first place. We proceeded to bare the supermarket shelves, which, in this case was decidedly unnecessary.
We were able to get to the stores pronto! the next day. I was not deprived of any of the basic
necessaties; water, lights, heat, etc.

We enjoyed a georgeous show of nature in a spectacular and most magnificent way. O, The Power of the Creator! Can not be duplicated!

Baby Sis Is Gone!

My Baby Sis has left me for good. She is now in a better place from now throughout all eternity. My Sis is talking to the Angels. She has now become a beautiful Angel herself. Sis was never a stranger to anyone, so now she is among the select beings, sharing things in ways that only she can.

Her type of humor and charm resonated all around her, wherever she went. Baby Sis had a unique

brand of conversing that left the listeners wondering and pondering over her rationale for some time after the conversation was long finished.

I truly miss my Baby Sis now, and I shall until we meet again in another dimension; on another shore. I'm so very glad that Baby Sis is finally free and happy at last. She longed for quite some time for that ultimate peace, happiness, and freedom. She now have it in it's entirety. I am estatic for her. I miss you, Baby Sis! You are always in my heart. I love you! Soar on!!