Wednesday's Hodgepodge

1. When it comes to gift giving are you more of a 'create something from scratch' or a 'buy something in a shop' kind of giver? Tell about a favorite homemade gift you've given or one you've received.  

I fancy myself as a creative gift giver, however it has been years since I have done anything like that! I enjoy gift stores and places like Hobby Lobby however I am more inclined these days to find out what gift my friend or family member would like. My favorite, all time, gift is a darling "Grammy Doll" created by my niece (who is old enough to be my sister) out of a large dishwasher detergent bottle, stuffing clothing, embroidered eyes, tiny brass wire "glasses", carrying a basket of tiny wrapped presents and a teeny tiny sewn and stuffed felt teddy bear... about 2 inches long!  NO ONE can top that homemade gift!

2. Do you have the 'gift of gab'? Is that a blessing or a curse? 

People say I have the gift of gab, and perhaps it is true, but I seldom start the conversation. I'm shy but no one believes me because I'm not quiet, evidently! 

3. What's something you have going on that you need/want to 'wrap up' this month? 

Organizing my bedroom. End of story. 

4. A food you love that is 'wrapped' in some way?

Ooooh!  Let me think ...   scallops wrapped in bacon!  

5. December is upon us...share something here (quote, verse, poem, song lyric, your own thoughts) related to the word hope. 

There are so many Bible verses with 'hope'. This one came to mind, first:    Titus 2:13 Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Savior, Jesus Christ.  

6. Insert your own random thought here. 

The view from my kitchen window in late December.

Hodge Podge! Where have I been???? Just Busy!

 

1. How would you define 'old'? At what age is someone old? 

Old. Not me. Not yet. Hopefully, never.  "Old" is a state of mind, really... a beloved 90+ year old woman who thought "young" and loved a new outfit on occasion, loved to bake cookies, loved visits from kids and grown ups alike, died at 97 because of cancer. She still was not old; just very ill.  :-(  

2. A place you've been that's old? Tell us something about your visit there. 

Savannah, GA.  What a beautiful old southern city!  Architecture was awesome...  beautiful gardens with old trees were just a few blocks from each other. I would love to go back! Great restaurants, too!  

3. Something you miss about the 'good old days'? When were they anyway? 

The good old days were when we all were little. We didn't have to shop, cook, clean (except our room) and school was fun for the most part. Vacations were looked forward to and so was the first day of the school term! Every season was celebrated - Spring brought out the bicycles, jump ropes and wild flower contest in Miss Spalding's 4th grade; summer brought out the baseballs, handballs, beach balls and trips to the creek or community pool; fall brought out the sweaters and walks down the lane through the leaves to hear them crunch, smell them burning at the edge of the road, wondering when Mom was going to make her "crullers" (doughnuts) and when were we going to stop at Bud Duncan's Farm Stand for some cider?  Winter brought the excitement of the first snowflakes, Santa coming, the Christmas program at church, sledding on the hill by our house  and ice skating on the pond if Mr. Hoovler thought it was safe enough (he would plow it off and then we knew!)  Ah, yes! The good old days! 

4. In what way are you a 'chip off the old block'? Or if you'd rather, in what way is your child a 'chip off the old block'? 

I look like my mom. I'm shaped like my mom. I sound like my mom. But that's about it.  She loved to cook... I only "like" it. She could sew and crochet and made some pretty cool stuff for my friends and me.  Me? Eh...  She loved to write poetry when she got older. I wrote poetry when I was younger.  She loved her family, though, just like me and loved the Lord, too... just like me. I loved her very much and miss her still...

5. Old fashioned, Old Testament, old timer, same old same old, old glory, good old boy, old wives tale...choose an 'old' phrase that relates to something in your life or the wider world currently and explain. 

Old...   so many to choose from!  I love the Psalms from the Old Testament; Old Glory waves from my front porch; some people think I'm old fashioned but I'm really just practicing to be an "old timer!"  How about an interesting expression but not exactly an "old wives' tale" ...  My husband and I often chuckle and comment when we see this in the sky:  The sun will be shining through some clouds and the rays will be directed toward earth... but my mom would insist that "the  sun is drawing water."  Now, why the sun would need water is beyond me... or perhaps it was drawing it up to be placed back into the clouds, but we never understood her expression and simply had to accept her idea .  No clue where she got it from, except that it was passed down to her as she grew up on her family farm in NJ.

6. Insert your own random thought here. 

Back to masks in public places. Winter is coming. I sure hope next fall and winter, this pandemic is over. I don't know the answer but it sure doesn't seem to be vaccinations with endless booster shots, since those of us vaccinated can pass the different variants of this virus on and not even know we are carrying it. Sometimes the best laid plans of men are not effective. Praying that God will show mercy on us and help heal our lands... in more ways than one. 

Hodgepodge Together

1. What's something you resolved to do this year? Have you done it?

I decided years ago not to make any resolutions.  Still not doing it!

2. Where do you go to find quietude?

Being empty nesters and retired, it's not hard to find quietude. When I was a kid, I used to climb my apple tree and spend time with a comic book or just daydreaming.  There was also a long grassy, scooped out section of an old sand pit that I could "recline" in and do the same. When the kids were little,  I used to spend more time in the bathroom with a good book; sometimes THE  Good Book. But now, I just curl up on my side of the sofa (it's very comfy!) and read or write or think!

3. A friend asked this question on her Facebook page and said I could borrow it for the Hodgepodge...you're only allowed to buy 5 things at the grocery store, and all must start with the first letter of your first name. Whatcha' buying?

Potatoes, Pork Chops, Peanut Butter, Pasta and Pudding

4. The television show Survivor, the Gloria Gaynor song 'I Will Survive', survival mode, survival of the fittest...pick one and discuss.

Survival Mode:  This pandemic has put me in one. I've stocked the freezer with meat, breads and veggies I have prepared. I've also made "extra" and frozen them as leftovers for another day. I bought groceries ahead so I only have to do BIG shopping once a month. I don't sew well and my machine is broken so our masks are made of old T shirt fronts and backs (the size of a bandanna) and folded as seen in a video so that rubber bands hold it on over our ears. My hands are dry and somewhat chapped from all the washing and sanitizing...  I hope this is over sooner rather than later. I don't like survival mode.
5. Share a favorite quote or saying about strength.

Why do I do these things at night?  ...  "There's strength in numbers."  but we can't gather so let's pretend I didn't use that one.   OK, "Strength for today and bright hope for tomorrow!"  (Great is Thy Faithfulness)

6. Insert your own random thought here.

God's got this pandemic and I was reminded just Monday that he is always with me and that includes the cookie aisle at Aldi's.  By the way, I have lost 10 pounds...and we'll give God the Glory! Hope all of our Hodgepodge Friends are keeping well.

Wednesday Hodgepodge on the Bunny Trail!

1. How will you celebrate Easter this year?

We have been having "church" from "The Pastor's Study" here at home and uploaded to the internet in various ways, BUT have been able to plan a unique church service for Easter! A conversation with the health dept and a suggestion from them has lead to our hearts rejoicing in that we will be able to have a "Drive In Service" this Sunday! Strict adherence to social distancing will be followed. Not even access to rest rooms will be granted. Everyone must stay in their vehicle. We miss our time together, and lament that we will not be able to have Sunday School and a time of coffee/food after worship, but just being able to see faces and hear their voices in real time will be AWESOME! Pastor Bill (my husband) is very encouraged about this.  Later Bill, our family (3 of us until this self isolation is lifted) will enjoy a venison roast with potatoes and peas for dinner. Perhaps some home-made bread if I can find where I put that last packet of yeast. There may even be "Easter Pie" for breakfast! We don't do the Easter bunny thing, but we DO do candy, but the Easter M&Ms I purchased weeks ago are gone. They were put into cookies. Very GOOD cookies...    

2. Is it easier for you to receive grace offered or extend grace to another? Explain.

I've never actually thought about that...  I have had to think over situations in the past. I believe it is harder for me to accept that I may have hurt someone's feelings or that I have done something wrong, except burn dinner... We seem to think more about what BIG things "deserve" grace but sitting here, I realize that it is the little things in life that everyday grace gets put to good use. Forgetting to call someone, getting the dishes or lawn-work done ... extending grace to the ones who can't seem to pick up their dirty socks and put them in the laundry basket is sometimes harder than dealing with the teenager who refuses to do his work and is satisfied with a D on their report card!!  Holding someone accountable and showing grace at the same time is not that difficult and very necessary.  The Lord has been gracious AND merciful to me, so who am I to not extend grace to others in return?!  But to receive grace, graciously is hard. We often think we don't deserve it, and of course we DON'T but it is still offered. It is probably the one thing that holds many people back from really trusting Christ as their Savior, because they simply can't believe that God can do this... be gracious.  I am reminded of  part of the liturgy from a service in a former church; liturgy that I took very seriously as a kid when I trusted the Lord as my savior:  "Be gracious and merciful, to me; a sinner."  And God was, and is and always will be!

3. Do you say grace before meals? If so do you have a standard dinnertime grace or is it more 'off the cuff' ? Do you say grace when dining out? Do you have a favorite grace? Any special memory associated with 'saying grace'?

Oooh! Lots of questions here. I have a tendency to not answer them all. Let's see how I do this time! 

Yes, we say grace before meals but it is not a standard one. Usually my husband asks the blessing on our meal and includes an event or personal request that has come up; often asking for extended blessings or grace for others in our extended family and friendship circle. I have no "favorite grace" but have to share a special/favorite memory:  Since we do ask the blessing when we dine out, it does not seem odd for us or our children and it is expected.  Well, once while on vacation, we were dining at the hotel restaurant and it was taking an exceptionally long time for dinner to arrive. Our children were 11, 8 and not almost 20 months and were patiently waiting (so proud of them!) My husband and I looked over at our baby in the high chair, who had his little fists over his eyes and his head bowed. He was mumbling. He looked up, looked around at the table; then returned to his position of head down, mumbling, eyes closed and fists covering his eyes.  He did this several more times when we realized what he was doing...   You see, at home, when we pray, the food is already on the table and we begin to eat. He was "praying" his way, and then looking for the food.. not here, yet?  We'll just "pray again... and again... and again...   About the 4th time he prayed, the waiter brought our food. We were struggling to keep from laughing out loud! The other children saw him by this point, and we had to try to hush their giggles!"  Lesson learned:  Prayer not answered, yet?  Keep praying. 

4. What are some challenges you think the next generation will face? (Generation Alpha-born between 2011 and 2025)

I'm afraid there will be a major disconnect with God among people whose parents walked with Him. Now, that's not saying God can't search the hearts of this generation and call them to Him just as he did with "our" generation, whichever one you're in, but I have seen this trend over the years. Fewer and fewer "kids" taking the things of the Lord, seriously, especially a saving relationship with Him.  That said, I do see where the hand of God has lead some young couples back to worship, so maybe I'm just sensitive to what I see in the children and teens around me. I DO know there is a major disconnect in parenting. We have way too many children in school with disciplinary problems. They are disrupting classrooms and parents are just throwing up their hands saying things like, "He is like this at home, too." Really?  Who is the parent here?  Get your children under control. Set boundaries and stick to them. Make them accountable!  Principals need to make parents accountable for their children's actions. All the elementary school counselors and psychologists in the world are not going "fix" these kids!  Parent against Parent ...divorce is hard; you may risk "losing" your child's perceived love if you are strict, but divorce is a choice many people have made and it is truly hurting many Generation Alpha kids. :-( 

5. Share a favorite quote or lyric featuring the word faith.

OK, the first one that popped into my head because there are so many!  "Now faith is the substance of things hoped for; the evidence of things unseen."  Hebrews 11:1

6.  Insert your own random thought here.

A young girl from a family I met online died this week. She had been critically injured in a car accident that left her father with serious injuries and her older sister bruised and badly shaken. Her parents and siblings are suffering the grief of no longer having her home with them. Her mother stayed with her last week as she lay in an induced coma, hoping and praying for her brain to stop swelling. It didn't.  Her Daddy was in another hospital with only his pastor for comfort as no family was allowed in, due to the COVID 19 virus. This sweet girl, with congenital brain damage, adopted from the Ukraine and 6 1/2 years old when she could finally come home; non verbal except for a very occasional word; able to understand but not speak required special love from all members of the family who gave unselfishly  (most of the time ... kids are kids, after all) and she was able to flourish under their love. Using her communication board and listening to everyone she learned the English language and even responded in her way to hearing some Ukranian women at the grocery store after she was here in the states for a good while! Though still not able to speak, she made sounds and demands that were heard loud and clear, but being able to practically and politely communicate was so often the exception. However, she had her thoughts, talents and wishes and learned to read and write! She learned to draw and color, showing amazing detail and a wonderful array of color! She loved purple. She was asked at school what was one thing she knew and she communicated to them, "God loves me and so do the angels." .. her parents had told her that God loved her and shared with her his plan of salvation BUT have no clue where she  learned about angels loving her...  She learned to play piano and went from simply playing the required notes to actually listening to her music teacher sing with her. You could see it in her expression as she sat at the piano. She had her personal battles and those she fought with gusto. Her parents were always looking for ways to distract her, entertain her, teach her, make good use of her free time.  They showered her with the tender love and protection she was denied at the over-crowded orphanage. Her lingering bad memories of that place were probably the biggest obstacle she had to overcome... daily... until the Lord took her home. She is free, now! Free from the jangled way in which her brain worked; free to sing praises to the Lord, probably in two languages!  We are praying for the family and praising God for them, and her and the fact that he loves us so much, he was willing to take our punishment for sin and leave it at the cross. We serve a risen Savior! My sweet friend knew this and it is my belief that her short life may very well serve as a springboard for others to come to know  Him as well.  That is my prayer and my random thought for today. 

HODGE PODGE, again. Thank you, Joyce!

TUESDAY, MARCH 31, 2020

HODGE PODGE, again. Thank you, Joyce!  

(link is broken to her page: www.fromthisideofthepond.com)

1. Has spring sprung in your part of the world? How can you tell? Did March come in like a lion where you live? Going out like a lamb or something more ferocious?

Spring almost sprung... then we had some snow, wind, now rain and cooler temps but it is still March...for JUST A FEW MORE HOURS!!!  I'm expecting big changes for April!  I did find green shoots of crocuses, daffodils and hyacinths peeking out of the ground. March came in mostly like a lamb, though it did get windy. I'm expecting it to go out like a lamb as well... and a bit windy.  Eh!

2. The last thing that caused you to spring to your feet?  

Sadly, it was a stomach ache and I had been sleeping soundly...  until 2:30 AM.  But all is well and it was several weeks ago.  (Obviously I have no children or pets living at home!)

3. Do you have a spring clean to-do list? What's one chore on the list you've already managed to accomplish? What spring clean chore do you most dread?

Ugh. I have a mental list. It never changes year to year. I managed to put many of my "deep winter" clothing away. You know; the bulky sweaters and fleeces and things that have snowflakes and cardinals on them :-)  The chore I dread the most is probably taking down the curtains and putting up my spring and summer ones. I'm short.

4. Tell us something you've learned about yourself or the wider world as a result of social distancing/the virus crisis.

I've learned that most people are kind and considerate. Most are following the guidelines and staying home. Most did not hoard anything, but desperately wanted to make sure their families were supplied with what they needed for the long haul. First they said 2 weeks but many people did not believe that. And they were correct. We are now going into another 4 weeks of no school or church and social distancing with groups no larger than 10 but preferred no larger than 2. Early hours at the grocery store for age 60 and over make it a little less challenging to shop.

5. Something you love that's the color pink?

Sunsets and roses. And tulips and peonies. Bleeding hearts and bubble gum.

6. Insert your own random thought here.

At least it isn't snow!  We will dry out, eventually...

Howdy Back at Ya!

Hodge Podge - "From This Side of the Pond"   ... link is broken :-(  


1. Howdy Hodgepodgers. It's kind of fun to be back, isn't it?  Last time we met was September, 2018. Tell me something big-important-happy-or sad that's happened in your life since that date. Just one thing. We don't know how long this current isolation situation is going to last and we might need to dole out our news bit by bit.

One  year ago we were just getting back from a wonderfully warm vacation to Hilton Head Island. We try to find a warm place every spring :-) and coax it back to New York State. It doesn't always work; in fact it seldom does, but our friends are hopeful. This year, we are missing the warmth but keeping well at home, and THAT is good news!

2. Might as well get this out of the way early on...COVID-19. On a scale of 1-5 how serious are you about keeping your distance? Explain. fyi-I didn't create the scale but have seen it several places online. Also fyi-we won't only have virus related questions each week, but for this first one it feels right.

1-Not at all, living normally

2-Cautious but still going out

3-Going out as needed, mostly home or working from home, still seeing friends/family

4-Extremely limited, only going out when unavoidable, minimal contact with people

5-Full lockdown, no one in or out

Definitely a 4. I saw this coming and got groceries for more than 2 weeks, but then they said a month would be better, so we shopped, again.  We're good for at least 6 weeks for most things. We do drive to a favorite deli for take-out on Thursday nights.  If we need groceries, we will take advantage of the early hours for people over 60. My husband wears his tactical gloves for pushing the cart and getting gas. We also now have our granddaughter here from college. She had an extended spring break, spent at the home of her boyfriend's parents, but when the school closed they both had to drive the 6 hours back to school and collect their belongings and head for their respective homes. Her parents live out of state, another 6 hours away, and since she changed her address to our house we get to keep her!!!!
3. Raise your hand if you think you might run out of steam in the cooking department before it's all said and done? What's something delcious you've cooked or eaten in your own kitchen in the past week?

Nah! I'm good!  I made a  potato and corn chowder from last years corn, potatoes we have in abundance and a container of chicken broth (no meat) I found in the freezer.  Thickened it with milk and flour. Added onions, salt and pepper.  OH MY GOODNESS!  It's gone, now...

4. What's a television show or movie you've seen recently (it could be an oldie) that you really liked?
I watched Janette Oke's LOVE series ...3 of them on TV this past week.

5. Share something funny you've seen or heard this week.

There have been some pretty funny memes going around this week regarding parents who suddenly find themselves ''homeschooling."   "If you see my kids locked out of the house, it's OK. We're having a FIREDRILL."  LOL!!!!

6. Insert your own random thought here

Youth Group bonfire  and hide'n seek in the dark (with glow sticks)  just before the virus regulations went into effect 2 weeks ago.  All present, here, are still fine...even the boy who jumped through a raspberry bush...that was off limits and now he knows why!   We bandaged his bare arms up real good! 

Thankful Giving

It was the fall of 1985 and we were living on Staten Island where our third son had been born only a few weeks earlier. We had a few unexpected expenses the past year and financially, we were just holding our heads above water. A small group discussion at the grocery store made me realize that culturally, we were poor. The end went something like this:  Me:  “Well, I can feed my family on $40 a week.”   Complete Stranger:  “Then you must not be feeding them very well!!”   Me:  (almost speechless but not quite) “Why? Because I don’t buy soda, junk food, ice cream or take my kids to McDonald's all the time?” Complete Stranger turned her nose up at me and walked away. I was a bit angry more than hurt. How dare she judge my ability to care for my family? I prayed, forgave her and continued my careful shopping all the while very conscious of what I put in the cart.  I was a good Christian wife and mother; carefully looking after my family and praying for wisdom each month as I worked on our budget and made out the checks to pay the bills. It hadn’t been easy living in NYC but God was faithful.

We were planning to have Thanksgiving at our house for the first time, ever, since the grandparents had always requested our presence at their tables for the holiday. I was pretty excited, at first, but soon realized that there did not appear to be enough left in the budget for a November feast. I prayed. Who was not going to get paid that month? I checked and rechecked the budget. There were months we stretched our “grace periods” to the max but that wasn’t going to help this time. I was tempted to use some of our tithing money which would cover the cost of dinner but that didn’t seem quite fair since I was supposed to be trusting the Lord, who is always faithful! So I prayed some more.  

Not quite two weeks before Thanksgiving, a dear lady came up to me after church with an envelope in her hand. She said, “Someone handed this to me and asked me to give it to you.”  I opened it and found a lovely, unsigned Thanksgiving card along with a $20 bill. I was shocked! Dumbfounded, unable to speak, I turned to the woman and started to cry. She quickly put her arms around me.  When I was able to speak, I whispered, “Who? Who knew we needed this?” Then I cried some more. “Stop crying!” She whispered back. “They want to be anonymous.” Tears were still flowing, and now adrenaline was kicking in so I started to shake. “But how did they know?”  The poor woman was now beside herself, also in tears. We hugged for a long time. You see, it was she and her husband who had made this generous offer! He had handed her the envelope… They did this every year as a Thanksgiving tradition, prayerfully choosing a young family for no special reason. It was simply our turn. God was faithful! I was able to shop for our Thanksgiving dinner, providing everything but the pies which were traveling down with the grandparents! There was even some money left over to be put away for a trip to Dunkin Donuts! 

My story is not over. Another family in our church had the tradition of anonymously leaving turkeys on the doorsteps of unsuspecting families, unannounced, unseen very early in the morning. One yearly recipient of a Thanksgiving turkey was a struggling little family with three boys who were always trying to make ends meet; trying to get the best help for their special needs child; the husband trying to find better employment…  But this year, they had been blessed in several ways and were, in my friend’s words, “FINALLY” not needing the generous donation of a turkey and would I like to have it, since she knew our family was coming down! I thanked her profusely as I pictured New Year’s dinner and soup in the freezer to follow! God is faithful!

Fast forward 30+ years:  Not without struggles, heartaches and hardships, but that sweet lady from our church has thrived and no doubt countless other families have been blessed by their generosity! The anonymous family who donated turkeys, no longer anonymous, but still being faithful with what God has given them have blessed countless families, not just with turkeys and have been blessed, themselves! The young family with the special needs child has been blessed and is now a blessing to others! And our family, with children long grown and grandchildren doing the same has never forgotten and we, too, in sharing, have blessings in abundance! No one is famous, some may be “well to do,“ but by far the riches we have are not monetary. I am reminded of Psalm 100, shared with us at church this past Sunday:   A Psalm for giving thanks. [1] Make a joyful noise to the LORD, all the earth! [2] Serve the LORD with gladness! Come into his presence with singing! [3] Know that the LORD, he is God! It is he who made us, and we are his; we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture. [4] Enter his gates with thanksgiving, and his courts with praise! Give thanks to him; bless his name! [5] For the LORD is good; his steadfast love endures forever, and his faithfulness to all generations. (ESV)
Happy Thanksgiving! 

Hodgepodging into November

1. What does/did Halloween look like at your house this year? Did you decorate? Pick pumpkins? Carve pumpkins? Expect trick or treaters? Wear a costume to a party or event? Make a costume? Feel glad you didn't have to come up with a costume? Cook a Halloween themed treat? Eat all the leftover candy?

I'm not big on Halloween. It's origin, as I understand it, is anything but Christian so we keep it simple.  I do participate in Trunk or Treat by decorating my trunk this year with a "Frozen" theme.  Not the Disney movie, but my own called, "Not Quite Frozen" with snowshoes, skis, and a cooler with pretend snowballs that kids have to dig through to find candy.  I've done this for 3 years. We also hand out tracts for kids from our church.  It is a nice way to interact with the kids in the church's neighborhood.  We have no kids in our neighborhood at home. None. The "just in case" candy disappears over the following week...

2. What are you waiting for? Elaborate.
Waiting for... Snow. It'll come. It always does; some years more so than others. ;-)

3. Do you wish you were friendlier, braver, more creative, more athletic, or something else? Explain.
Hmmm... maybe more creative. I can "do" things but I have to follow someone else's lead.  I also wish I was thinner.  Let's stop there, since the leftover candy is sitting on the coffee table...

4. When it comes time to paint are you a do-it-yourselfer or do you hire someone? What was the last paint job completed at your house? What room most needs painting now? How do you feel about wallpaper?

We hate painting. I didn't mind wallpaper but it' is so limiting when it comes to decorating. But then, I don't decorate on my own and can't afford to hire someone, so ... *sigh*    The last paint job completed here was when we had to rebuild because of burst pipes.  It all needs to be repainted as it has been over 10 years.

5. What is one specific thing you felt gratitude for in the month of October?
We love being retired (semi) and are able to travel when we want.  October is our month to spend time with our Game Warden friends from all over the country. For years my husband corresponded with them and now we get to go to the once a year encampment!  We love doing this. We pray for each other, have devotions together, cook and eat together. There's target shooting and several of the men who craft their own rifles with beautiful stock work get to share their work. . 

6.  Insert your own random thought here.

Something else I am grateful for during the month of October!

Only a Few Days Late Hodgepodge

1. Growing up, were you close to your grandparents? Tell us one or two specific things you remember about them.

Both sets of grandparents died long before I was born. I "adopted" other kids' grandparents and one in particular stands out.  Nana and Poppie. Nana and Poppie lived up our country road a few miles, where Poppie and his son owned a small salvage yard, did car repairs and such. They were a well known and well liked family.  Poppie and Nana both had jobs outside of the garage; Nana was the head cook at our K - 12 school and Poppie drove the small school "limo" that picked up some kids who lived across the creek so too far to walk, but not near the other bus routes. We're talking country.  Nana always seemed to loved having us kids come visit. There was always a cookie or two waiting. She had paper dolls and just 'stuff' that was cool for little girls to play with. I don't remember Poppie talking that much, but he always seemed to be laughing. Chuckling, may be a better term!  I'm smiling as I type this. We girls were always given permission to play in the old cars and sometimes we would find money! 15 cents was like a treasure! Even thought we would find money, Poppie wold always give us a nickel for the candy machine :-)   When Nana retired, she took up woodworking... building all kinds of things. I had moved away by then and never had the privilege to see any of her work. There was no internet back then. I'm still friends with their granddaughter. Nana and Poppie have been gone quite a while, now, but the memories linger... just like Poppies chuckle! 

2. What's an item you were attached to as a child? What happened to it?

My brown Teddy.  I didn't call him anything but Teddy; differentiating between the 4 or 5 I had was easy... this one was the one that I slept with and he was soft, warm and cuddly.  My cousin, Kenny, decided Teddy needed a bath while we were visiting my Aunt and Uncle (his grandparents.)  It was extremely humid and Teddy did not dry for days. I was quite the upset 5 year old, I can tell YOU!  Though he eventually dried out, his fur never felt the same, but he was still warm and cuddly till one night I dreamed of a black bear at my window who said, "Little Girl, if you cry I'll eat you up!"  I didn't cry; I let out a blood curdling SCREAM.  When I woke up, Teddy was underneath me, his little plastic paw poking me in the back.  He was relegated to the shelf on my bed from then on.  I kept him until he began to disintegrate when my oldest was a baby... just couldn't save him. Such a good bear. Mostly. 

3. When you look out your window, do you see the forest or the trees (literally and figuratively)? Explain.
Today, I see the forest. I'm fighting a summer cold that really has me down. Like there's no way out...  Ugh.  Normally I see the trees. Literally and figuratively. A nice expanse of lawn in front and a meadow with Christmas trees for sale in the back separates me from the actual forest. 

4. Do you like sour candies? Which of the 'sour' foods listed below would you say is your favorite?

grapefruit, Greek yogurt, tart cherries, lemons, limes, sauerkraut, buttermilk, or kumquats 

Have you ever eaten a kumquat? What's your favorite dish containing one of the sour foods on the list?

No to sour candies. Sour Patch Kids (orange) were the only ones I'd try.  I like buttermilk pancakes and lemon in my ice water but that's about it.  

5. July 1st marked the mid point of 2017. In fifteen words or less, tell us how it's going so far. 
Going quickly. Weird weather. Grandchildren growing. Pool's delightful WHEN sun shines. God is good, always.

6. Insert your own random thought here.

When planning crafts for boys, always be sure to have enough for "do overs"... they are worse than GIRLS!  LOL! - Arts and Crafts Lady from  Sacandaga Bible Conference

Hodge Podge Kind of Summer

1. When was the last time you chatted with a neighbor? About what? (sharing that last bit is optional)

I think it was two days ago. We were comparing (complaining) about our inground pools...  I may like mine later this summer, but being a salt water pool, keeping the salt number where it belongs has been a pain. They replaced the board in the computer... it was new... it's better but not right. 

2. River, lake, ocean, or waterfall...which one are you most like and why?
I'm definitely an ocean. Deep in thought and a wide expanse... never mind. 

3. July 13 is National Delaware Day. Ever been to Delaware? Delaware is called 'the first state' because it was the first to declare independence from the British. What's your state's nickname and does that moniker make sense to you? If you were in charge, what nickname would you give your home state?
Delaware is nice...love the ocean. Rehoboth Beach, Bethany Beach, Fenwick Island (I think is another area... great food.)  I'm from the Empire State of NY. It makes sense. I wouldn't change it. 

4. What dish did you contribute to the last pot luck meal you attended? Do you have a go-to recipe for pot luck suppers?
I can't remember... I think it was in the spring. It was probably a chicken dish, or maybe Rice Krispie Treats... hahaha!!! That's a joke for some of you readers... 

5. What is your number one tip for a brand new parent?
Never wake a sleeping baby.  If they're asleep, you should be, too! 

6. Insert your own random thought here.
Usually I insert a picture but I'm so late this time around...about 6 months late... I think I'll go with a thought:  I'm thinking.... some advice, maybe...   Here goes:

Always leave 2 eggs in the refrigerator!  Instruct your family to NEVER take the last 2 eggs... someone may desperately need them for baking ... cookies, for instance!  IF you find only 2 eggs in the refrigerator, go to the store and buy more or at least tell the one who does the shopping!

You Better Not be Fooling Me!

"You better not be fooling me!" she said into the telephone at 3AM one Sunday morning.  Really!  "Mom, I don't play April Fool jokes at 3AM!" This was part of an early morning conversation I had with my Mom 38 years ago.  I had just delivered my  baby boy (#2) and just couldn't wait to call her! It's what daughters do :-)  Actually, I was surprised she was awake enough to even realize it was April Fool's Day!

It was an exceptional time. Just a few days earlier, Thursday, in fact, we were battling a frozen water line under the driveway that separated our home from my in-laws. It had been 6 weeks! Everything else had thawed, but that plastic line was stubborn. We left the faucets in the "on" position, why I don't know. The drain in the kitchen somehow managed to plug itself but the water line managed to thaw while we were away for a few hours, and we came home to 2 inches of water on our floors!  That was ok, though ...it was a mobile home and there were no carpets from the kitchen, down the hall and to the back bedroom. There was a slight tilt to the back, anyway, so it was just a matter of soaking it up and wringing it out. What a mess, though ... just what a 9 months prego woman does NOT need!

Our home put back to order, and water running freely again, I caught up on 'almost' all of the laundry. Priority was given to baby clothes, of course! We were all set to have a baby, most likely by C-section according to the Dr. but, I was ok with that if it meant a safe delivery this time around.  Cleaned house on Friday. Grocery shopped on Saturday...

Saturday was  a beautiful, early spring day and my husband did not have to work! He took me grocery shopping at Shoprite in Hudson so we could stock up on some frozen dinners. That way I would have quick meals for our 3 year old and myself while he was working. Now, we had been given orders days earlier by Bill's parents, "Do NOT go into labor on Saturday! We have tickets to hear Victor Borge down in Rhinebeck!"  Sure, no problem! They were getting a rare chance to have some fun out of town with our neighbors.  I didn't have the heart to tell them Saturday morning that I felt 'funny'.  I had a pretty good idea while we were shopping and by the time we got home and they left for the concert. I was sure!  Just before they left, some friends stopped by their house to ask about puppies for sale,  who looked at me and said, "Oh, when are you due?" ... I just smiled and looked at my watch to which my mother-in-law cried, "That's not very funny!"  I laughed. She had no idea.

Just as soon as they left, we called Bill's cousin to make sure she was available that evening, 'just in case'. She wasn't home.  We called again an hour later, and left a message with her parents to call us when she got in.  They were going to be out of town that night as well...   By 9:00 o'clock, we were frantic... the neighbor who went with Bill's parents had a daughter who baby sat for us, but she was spending the night with friends; the neighbor on the north side of us was not home. Dear friends from church were not home ... we were about to pack up our 3 year old and take him with us, when our cousin called and came over as quickly as she could! We headed out for the hospital which was about 35 minutes away arriving at 11:30... just enough time for Bill to scrub, don a gown, and hear the nurse on the phone with the doctor, saying, "We just checked her and we don't think she needs a pelvimetry (xray). She needs her doctor to deliver her baby!"  .. since I was the only one in labor... I suddenly realized there would be no C-section!

Our darling boy was born at 1:16 AM and in my arms until I shook so badly they had to give him to his Daddy! Actually, they didn't need to "give" him to Daddy, 'cause I heard him say, "Here, I'll take him and you can take care of her!"  My honey scooped his son up into his big, strong hands and settled into a chair right where I could see them both and it's a memory that I pray never fades; Daddy and son bonding time! They left us alone in that birthing room with our baby, who settled down to sweet sleep. Bill went  home at 3AM and I lay awake, unable to sleep ... but that was OK. The recovery ward for moms had only me and eventually one other girl. Things were different back then, and when the nurse came in to give me a bath in bed ... I was kind of stunned!  She laughed and promised she would be quick and that when it was over, I would be clean and comfortable. She was quick and she was right! She ended my 'bed bath' by putting first one foot in her basin of water and then the other.  She laughed when I said "Ahhhhhh!" and said, "That's what all the girls say when their feet hit the warm water!"  Then, I slept.

Wild and Windy Hodgepodge

1. Share one favorite moment/memory from your Christmas holiday. 

Watching the faces of the children in the youth choir at church on Christmas Eve. They had so much fun! 

2. What was the best thing you ate over the holidays? Was it homemade or store bought? If it was homemade did you make it?

The best?  Tough one! So much was good...  I'm sure it was a homemade cookie... not made by me. 

3. What was one of the most beautiful things you saw over the holidays?

A whole bunch of little angels all in costume, waiting patiently for the program to start.  All colors, all races. Love my church!

4. What does fresh start mean to you?

Waking up each morning. 

5. On a scale of 1-10 (with 10 being very positive and 1 being not so great) how would you rate 2016 in terms of personal achievement and well being? Explain. 

Actually, a 10.  We had some tough days, but God is always faithful and even though patience is not one of my traits, He knows how to deal with me.  2016 ended quietly and on a positive note. 

6. Every January 1st since 1976 Lake Superior University has published a list of words they'd like to see banished from the Queen's English. Words may be banished due to misuse, overuse, or just general uselessness. Go here to read more about how the words were chosen or, if you're like me, to find out what in the world the word or phrase even means or the context in which it's used. There were quite a few on this year's list I'd never heard before.

Here's the 2017 list of banished words-

You, Sir-focus-Bete Noire-Town Hall Meeting-Post Truth-guesstimate-831-historic-manicured-echo chamber-on fleek-bigly-ghost-Dadbod-listicle-get your dander up-selfie drone-frankenfruit-disruption

Which word on the list would you most like to see banished in 2017? What word or phrase would you add to the list?

To keep in what appears to be a bit of humor, I would say "bigly" should be banished and never should have showed up to begin with!   I would add "enjoy" as in when we are seated for dinner and the waiter/waitress bring our entre', saying simply, "Enjoy."   What? Can't you complete the sentence?  "Enjoy your dinner."   and this ties with the phrase:  "Have a good one."    One?  Do you mean, "Day?" "Experience with what I just purchased?  OK, I know I'm getting carried away, but it's my blog. HAHA!  And you read it this far...   :-)

7. Large or small, light or deep, share with us one goal you have for the new year. 

I haven't really made any new ones. Keeping some old ones, like losing weight, slowly. Eating a bit healthier, but not too much. Reading my Bible a little more regularly and studying, too. Finishing books I've started. 

8. Insert your own random thought here.

The campaign for US President is over. One candidate lost, the other won.  We need to be praying (if you pray) for our country, our new president and his family and the choices that are made for his cabinet... just like we prayed 4 years ago, 4 years before that, etc.  Just because some of you/us did not get our way  does not give license to be disrespectful to the office he will be holding.  There is too much at stake to be whine babies over something that has already been decided.  Let's get on with living and learning.   And this is the LAST political speech I make! 

Poem (re-post) #1 ... cheating, I know!

Mittens or gloves is the question

the answer to which I am certain

lies on the inside

where fingers and thumbs cry

for comfort, warmth and protection!

Working in the school district full time for over 20 years has allowed me the opportunity to view first hand how parents dress their children. Now, why would parents send their kids to school in the wintertime, knowing there is outside play at recess, with no snowpants, no boots, no hat (or hood on their jacket)and only stretchy gloves, if any, for hand protection? Poor kids have to borrow mittens/gloves and hats from the teacher or nurse's office and then stand where it is plowed and just watch the other kids play. What great memories those kids have ... NOT! The rest of the kids are building snowmen, playing King of the Hill on the snowbanks and making forts. They aren't allowed to throw snowballs at each other but in the past we've managed to find a way to play "snowbaseball", where I pitched and they batted (using their arms,)

So, parents, dress your kids (and yourselves) for the weather. It's winter! My final words go back to my poem: Mittens are always warmer than gloves since your fingers get to hang out together and share body heat. I even slip my thumbs out of their little home to be curled up inside my hand and sometimes I even drive the car that way! Just sayin' .. .around our house, mittens makes the difference between happy hands or a miserable grandmommy!

One Month Later... Wednesday Hodgepodge, again!

1. I read here four creative activities to try this month. They were-calligraphy, make your own cookbook, dance or learn a new type of dance, and letter writing. Which activity on the list appeals to you most? Will you add it to your August? 

There is no room in my August for anything creative, sadly.  I'd be happy if I could finish reading a book. There is a letter or two I could write, if I turned off the computer.  HA! There's my problem!

2. Bertrand Russell is quoted as saying, 'To be without some of the things you want is an indispensable part of happiness.' Agree or disagree? Explain. 

There is SOME truth to that. Desiring something in a good way and not in a jealous way and not knowing if you will ever get it, gives a person nice thoughts and something to dream about or look forward to. You can't take for granted the things you do not have.  However, I'm thinking that I really wanted more grandchildren... not that I don't love the two I have or am not fulfilled by my role as their grandmother, but I always envisioned myself as the Grammy whose kitchen always had cookies baking and a parade of children coming through. I know it is not my place to whine or complain, so I don't. Our children have fulfilling lives of their own and are secure, successful and content within their own families.  I think true happiness is dependent upon your relationship with the Creator.   I often go back to a song I learned years ago. YEARS AGO!

3. August 17th is National Thriftshop Day...are you a 'thrifter'? If so, tell us about one of your best or favorite finds. 

Oooh! I love a good bargain! I'm always looking for clothing and have a hard time finding my size in thrift shops; HOWEVER I have found several items in the "Reuzit" shops of Pennsylvania!  Friendly, clean and very well organized, their proceeds benefit Mennonite mission work.  A blue short sleeved sweater is my all time favorite.  I also have a couple of long sleeved fleeces that get rave reviews every time I wear them. 

4.  On a scale of 1-10 (with 1= almost none and 10=loads) how would you rate your sense of wanderlust? What kicks your wanderlust into high gear? 

Actually, I'm more of a homebody. So, maybe a 5, but every once in a while, I just want to get away with my husband to someplace warm, or fun, or exciting...  We've done mission work in Central America. Love visiting things historical; Vacationed along the east coast beaches (incl Gulf of Mexico;)  Taken the kids camping when they were little; Love exploring the country side of PA;  Love driving through the mountains of NY, PA, WV, VA, NC, KY and TN ... sounds like I never stay home!  But it's only a few times a year and we drive to each location, except Central America; but in Costa Rica we rented a car and drove to the coast.   There's no one thing that kicks "wanderlust" into gear... but just a sense of wanting to explore new and old places.  Well.... maybe the month of January does.  Yeah... January here in the Northeast.... 

5. Has life felt more like a marathon or sprint so far this month? How so?

This month started out like a marathon but has ended more like a sprint. I can't believe it's half over! Doing arts and crafts with kids at a local Christian Camp each summer has me whirling around and around looking for materials and counting and re-counting how many kids I'll have... it changes each week and I absolutely never know before Sunday!  It's exciting, rewarding and this is my last week for the year.  I'll miss these kids but will see them again in 45 weeks!

6. What do you need to get a jump on before fall officially arrives? 

Housework. Definitely, housework. 

7. What's the last thing you did with friends or family where you lost track of time?

HAHAHAHA!!!!!!!  *wipes tears* 

8. Insert your own random thought here. 

Boys making banners to hang; Girls painting with shaving cream paint; Shaving cream paint pictures left out to dry.  (adding glue makes them stay puffy!)