"Made of Honor"

Last night Jeff had the honor of standing up with his friend Carrie at her wedding. They've been friends since 7th grade and are more like brother and sister. She asked him to be her "Maid of Honor" promising not to make him wear a chartreuse, floor-length gown with puffy sleeves. He was a little worried that he'd have to walk down the aisle arm-in-arm with the Best Man, but instead he walked the female minister to her position, then took his place with the bridesmaids and flower girls.

Top Ten List

After being "tagged" several weeks ago, I not only listed random facts about myself, but it inspired me to also write about memories and now, the top 5 places I've seen or want to see. So I'm breaking it down into two lists.

Top Five Places I've Seen (in no particular order)

1. Niagara Falls--growing up near the Falls, I can't count how many times I've been there. But it never gets old. I began a tradition with my first niece, Heather, who we took to Canada when she was 13. When Morgan turned 13, I took her, then Chelsea when she was 13. (Stormi will be my last -- 4 years from now since my niece on MY side LIVES in Canada.) Morgan was the first to talk me into riding the Maid of the Mist to the base of the Falls. I'm so glad she did, because even though it is amazing from any perspective, the sheer power of the Falls can't be felt until you're right below them.

2. Great Britain--England/Scotland--Brighton Beach, the Castles, the Cathedrals, the history, the pubs (best fish & chips in the world), Stonehenge, Bed & Breakfasts, Bath, the Lake District, St. Andrews, the North Sea, Dunnottar Castle, Loch Ness, the English countryside, the highlands in Scotland, LONDON!, the Changing of the Guard--did we really do all that in 10 days?!?! I would love to do it all over again.

3. The Big Apple--Manhattan, Times Square, Shows on Broadway (we saw Fiddler on the Roof), Central Park, Grand Central Terminal, United Nations, Trump Tower, Rockefeller Center, Metropolitan Museum of Art, Ellis Island, Ground Zero, Empire State Building. I Heart NY!

4. Jamaica and Grand Cayman--I'll lump these together since they are my favorite destinations on a Caribbean Cruise. The beaches, the sunshine, the relaxation. Sounds really good right now. Just say the word and I'm on the boat.

5. Baton Rouge/New Orleans--we spent two years living in Baton Rouge and it was two of the best years of my life. Southern Louisiana is like a different country. History, plantations, sugar cane, cajun food, architecture, swamps, live oaks, cajun food, party atmosphere, gators, Mardi Gras, cajun food, great people, warm winter, spanish moss, cajun food. I miss it.

Top Five Places I Want to See:

1. Israel

2. Rome/Paris -- maybe in same trip?

3. Cape Cod

4. Hawaii

5. Western Canada (Vancouver) / Alaska -- same trip?

Sick Days

For the second day in a row, Jacob has needed some TLC. After a trip to Urgent Care on Sunday, and a diagnosis of strep, he was started on antibiotic. Yesterday, he still didn't feel good so he came to my house. Although he wasn't as "high energy" as usual, he seemed to be on the mend. He did what I call "quiet things" like puzzles, books, viewmaster. I've debated about describing one of our conversations, and decided it's just too good not have in the Blevins' memoirs.

Nana: "I'm going to the bathroom, I'll be back in a minute."

Jacob: "I'll come wif you."

(Obvious action takes place.)

Jacob: "Nana, you pee-peein'?"

Nana: "Yep, but I think I have to poop."

Jacob walks to the door way, then pokes his head back in and holds up one hand--palm facing me. "Just relax, Nana."

Good advice.

Today, Jacob felt even worse than yesterday. Throwing up and diarrhea last night. He didn't even ask for toys this morning, just went straight to the couch and spent most of the day sleeping. Trista took him to the doctor this afternoon and he thinks its a virus...on top of the strep. Poor baby.

I Feel Pretty

When Trista shared these pictures, the song I Feel Pretty kept playing over and over in my head. Is that from My Fair Lady? I picture Audrey Hepburn singing it. Anyway...Lauren spent close to an hour in front of the mirror, blow drying her hair. She's such a girly girl.

Fun Friday

Jeremy and Trista went to the Home & Garden Show Friday night while I watched the kids. When I'm at their house, it's pretty much non-stop play. They both want my undivided attention and we go from one toy/game/puzzle to the next like there's no tomorrow. Lauren is getting very independent and thought her world had come to an end when I had the nerve to try to spoon feed her a bowl of Cheerios. Jacob, on the other hand, wanted me to feed him so that he could watch SpongeBob without interruption. Lauren is also into dressing herself. She pulled a shirt out of Jacob's backpack (she was even saying "ba__ pa__") then proceeded to put the shirt on....legs in the sleeves. She walked around holding up the shirt, trying not to trip. Jacob only had one meltdown, when we had a dispute over the Power Rangers DVD. He indignantly "pushed the button" to turn off the TV and said, "Nana, you not my best fwend," then sat down in his chair to pout (and of course, I had to capture the moment with the camera). About two minutes later, he called out to me, "Naaanaaaa, I pushed the button.......and I not mean anymore!"

Ernie Taught Me Well

Somehow I knew that all those mornings watching Sesame Street with Jacob would pay off some day. Tuesday, on my way to Bible study, I was listening to XM Talk Radio (I know--sure sign of senioritis) and the show on Oprah & Friends was a repeat. I switched to Broadminded but, as is sometimes the case, they were getting a little crude. I switched again, but instead of hitting the "channel" button, I hit the "mode" button (so confusing) and ended up on FM----KBEZ to be exact. Nothing against Easy Listening, just not my usual preference. Bob Cooper was "guest hosting" the show.....stay with me here....it all comes together in the end. They were getting ready for a contestant call-in to win tickets to Sesame Street Live, which Jacob and I went to a couple of years ago. The caller had to know the last line of Ernie's Rubber Ducky song and I thought, "I know the Rubber Ducky Song." So I grabbed my phone and started dialing. Busy...again...busy....again....busy. I kept redialing. Amazingly I got through. The catch---not only did I have to KNOW it, I had to SING it!!!! Singing is not a gift that God saw fit to give me. Anyway...to get to the point. I, DID, in fact, sing the last line, "Rubber Ducky, I'm awfully fond of you." Yeah!!! Winner!!!! Family 4-pack to Sesame Street Live. Now to the Bob Cooper connection. The only other time I won anything on the radio was about 20 years ago when a country station was giving away a "black box" filled with prizes. The contest went on for weeks, as people tried to guess the contents according to clues given throughout the day. One morning I called in while, guess who?, Bob Cooper was hosting the show. He must be my lucky charm. That time I won a trip to Cancun, cash (pesos) to spend on the trip, a VCR (big deal 20 years ago), a CD player (bigger deal 20 years ago), 10 CDs of my choice, 9 videos of my choice, and a personalized K95FM jacket. (No, I don't listen to Country anymore.) So, "Thank you, Ernie, thank you Jacob, and thank you Bob Cooper."

Happy Birthday to Me

Saturday, March 1, was my 52nd birthday. That's sort of painful to say out loud. Lots of things are painful these days. But I had the best day! Neal and I met at Summers Mill Retreat and Conference Center at Belton, Texas on Friday. See, I share "my" day with two of my favorite people, whose anniversary is also that day. Bill and Alma Bunting have been a major force in my life since about 1964, when our families met in Lubbock while Bill and Dad were attending Sunset School of Preaching. Together, we moved to St. Thomas, Ontario in 1966 to establish a church in that community. Too many great memories to even begin trying to list them. There was almost no distinction between the Smiths and Buntings, as we seemed to be one big family, leaning on, struggling with, enjoying and celebrating with each other. Alma's cancer has returned with a vengeance. But this weekend was all about celebrating their 50th anniversary. They have been blessed for the past 10 years managing the Retreat Center, which is located in a beautiful part of Texas, half-way between Waco and Austin. What great fellowship we enjoyed with Bill & Alma, my parents, the Bunting girls, Julie & Tammy, Alma's niece, Connie, and Phyllis Kirkland, one of the charter members of our tiny church in St. Thomas, and another big influence on my life. God granted us gorgeous weather and we spent our entire Saturday outdoors....I have a bit of a sunburn, but good ol' Mom had her trusty little jar of aloe vera. Neal and I managed to spend some alone time, taking a long walk Friday evening and 4-wheeling...fishing...gathering flint rock on Saturday. Just before bed, my day ended with a phone call from Jacob singing Happy Birthday. "Happy burday to youuuuu, happy burday TO youuuu, happy BURRRDAYYYY to yooouuuuu, Naannaaa, happy burrrddaayyy to yooouuuuuu!" Then he proceeded to tell me about a "burday present" and "burday party" and "turn off the lights and say Happy Burday"....."would that be fun, Nana?" Perfect ending to a perfect day.

TAXES

Yesterday I FINALLY e-filed my tax returns. I can usually finish in less than 3 days, but this year I spent over 2 weeks searching, sorting, inputting, deleting, getting advice, re-inputting, etc., etc. This year was complicated by the purchase of our 2 farms--the Roosevelt Ranch in western Oklahoma and the Blevins Farm here in Sand Springs. I'm also phasing out my Arbonne business. I will keep my Consultant status in order to get my products at a discount and supply my family and friends with wholesale products, but I will no longer try to make time to pursue actual profit from the business. So that added to the nightmare of taxes. I was determined to do it all myself, so that I would have a better idea throughout 2008 of what was deductible, and what kind of records needed to be kept. I consider myself an organized person, but I really disappointed myself this year. The government makes it way too difficult for the average person to make sense of the infinite number of forms and schedules. It's a mind game. I wonder how many people that can't afford a CPA just give up and go the Short Form, losing out on money that they deserve. Anyway...I have big plans for the refund. More on that later.

Jeff's Birthday

Friday (the 22nd) was Jeff's birthday. As you can see, he was 4 years old. Jacob said, (holding up 4 fingers) "Uncle Jeff, you this many?" Jeff opened and closed his fists several times and said, "No, I'm this many." Jacob had a puzzled look...that was a lot of fingers. Then he proudly held up 3 fingers and said, "Ohhh. I'm this many." Glad we got that all straightened out. Actually Jeff is 28. I was too cheap to buy more candles. As you can tell, I was also too lazy to make a homemade cake. But...if you've read my previous "Tagged" blog, you know that I don't need an excuse to buy birthday cake. I did, however, make a home-cooked meal for him and Jeremy's family, a major feat since I've been up to my neck in taxes for the past 2 weeks.

Role Reversal

I've heard it said that at some point in our lives, roles will reverse and our parents will become like our children, and we will become as their parents. I just didn't realize how soon that would happen.

The last few days have not been great. Yesterday, in particular, was not a good day for me. I'll give you a few of the low points.

1. Something said at Small Group Sunday night that tied my stomach in knots.

2. Neal didn't call at his regular time Monday night. A sure sign that he was playing softball against my advice.

3. I ran out of propane AGAIN yesterday.
a. Thirty-five days ago I bought 300 gallons ($600.00) and bought another 300 gallons yesterday ($735.00). This can't be right.
b. I've called an insulation company to come today and check out the attic insulation.
c. The house fills with smoke when I burn wood in the fireplace. A chimney sweep is scheduled to come on Monday.

4. A harsh email from a fellow church member. (She called to apologize last night.)

5. My friend's brand new grandson was admitted to the hospital last night with severe jaundice.

6. After working on my taxes for a week, I'm still not finished and rather frustrated that the goverment makes it so difficult.

Oh, to have the attitude of Terry Rush on days like these.

So.....last night I called Jeff to see when he was planning to come home, and would he please stop at Braum's and pick me up a brownie fudge sundae (my ultimate comfort food). He asked why, and fighting the urge to say, "cause I'm your mom and I said so," I told him I'd had a bad day. In an eerily parental tone, he advised me that I really didn't want a brownie fudge sundae..."remember the pooch belly you're trying to get rid of?"...why didn't I just run a hot bath, light some candles and brew a cup of tea--with milk (Canadian-style), and talk to my "daddy" (a name he calls God when he wants to pour out his troubles to Him). Talk about turning the tables on me. Am I already in need of my children giving me advice?

Smith Memories

Here are a few memories of visits to Grandma and Grandpa Smith:


Getting a cold drink from the cistern with a metal dipper.


The outhouse. Scary in more ways than you can imagine.


Playing games with Grandma and Grandpa from the time I was old enough to talk. Hide the Thimble, Wahoo, and eventually graduating to Rummy, Scrabble, and Dominoes.


Spying a pane of glass in the yard and stomping it to bits. I don't know why. Blaming aforesaid destruction on one of the cousins. (Sorry Brad.)


Fishing down at the river with cane poles. Watching Grandma scale the fish and wanting to get in on some of that action.


Listening to Grandpa play his guitar and sing.

Going into town (Erick) and shopping at the Dixie.


Christmas. Using Grandpa's socks for stockings. One of my presents always being fabric that I'm sure Grandma got on sale at the Dixie, because it was so weird. But Mom always managed to turn it into a great-looking dress.


Homemade chocolate malted milkshakes before bed.


Washing and drying the dishes after meals. Small, non-airconditioned kitchen, metal dishpan, changing wet tea towels at least once or twice during the chore. Fighting for the place nearest the breeze coming in through the window.


Getting into Grandma’s face powder and getting my only spanking from her (that I can remember).


Riding with Uncle Melvin in his “hot rod,” listening to “Big Bad John” on the radio and Linda threatening to tell Grandma that he was smoking a cigar and driving over the speed limit. Actually, I was enjoying the ride. Linda was always a tattletale.


Sleeping in the back bedroom, windows wide open to let in the breeze, and fearing that the coyotes I could hear in the distance could surely break through those flimsy screens.


Learning to drive on the country roads WAY before I was 16.

Atchley Memories

A fellow blogger has inspired me to write more about me. My childhood memories, highlights in my life, and places I've seen, want to see or see AGAIN. I'm starting with some childhood memories of visits with my Grandma and Grandpa Atchley. Here goes:

Placing the mattress in the living room floor for Linda (sister), Gayla (cousin) and I. Staying up late, jumping on the mattress, while Grandma sat in her chair and quietly looked on. This is the only time I ever remember her sitting down. Though occasionally she would get up to retrieve more of her homemade dill pickles and saltine crackers for our late night snack.

Digging in the dirt, with Grandma’s old spoons, making tiny houses and towns using our bare feet as molds.

Running up and down the dome-shaped cement cellar.

Swinging on the creaky front porch swing, singing the latest tunes we'd memorized from the radio.

Eating on TV trays, my sisters, cousins and I pretending we were long-lost friends who had met by chance and were catching up on our make-believe husbands and children--always including “the twins.” One of us would just say, "Hiiiiii" and the others would know that was our cue to start the games.

Walking down the dirt road to the creek bridge, picking up gourds and devil’s claws along the way.

Retreating to the storm cellar every time there was a cloud in the sky, (Grandma was terrified of tornadoes) usually wrapped in a quilt with a 7-Up nearby, because I always had tummy aches from the well water. (Or was it the dill pickles?)

Running around shoeless even though there was never a time that someone didn’t have to have a “goat-head” extracted from a bare foot.

Sitting on Grandpa’s lap and answering pointless questions, knowing there was a $5 bill in his bib overalls for a job well done.

Going to Sweetwater (the intersection of two highways) in the back of the pickup and drinking Dr. Pepper.

Lying in the bed of the pickup and looking at the enormous sky with countless stars shining brighter than anywhere else in the world.

Riding with Grandpa in his pickup to feed the cows. Windows rolled down, grasshoppers jumping in and clinging to my skin with their stickly little legs while I'm freaking out screaming bloody murder.

Noise. Large family, big talkers, lots of laughing, never quiet.

Another Jacob Story

Neal was home last weekend. On Saturday evening we went over to Jeremy and Trista's. Neal, being a good PaPa, had Jacob and Lauren in his lap reading them a book. All of a sudden Jacob shouted, (hands up in the air) "Hold on guys! I gotta pee-pee!" Off he ran to the bathroom. Immediately he came running back into the living room, and exclaimed, (hands out in front shoulder-width apart) "There's a big ol' t__d (hands gesturing like a traffic controller toward the bathroom) IN THE POTTY!"

Stay in Kemah

Here's a brief summary of the last few days in Kemah.

• My flight from Tulsa was to leave at 7:00 p.m. Tuesday evening. Actual departure time was 8:20, putting me into Houston around 9:45--15 minutes past Neal's beddie-bye time.
• Since car rentals were sky-high at Hobby Airport (I assume due to International Finals Rodeo in town) Neal picked me up at the airport and we arrived at the RV Park about 10:30--1 hour past Neal's beddie-bye time.
• On Wednesday, Enterprise, true to their advertising, picked me up at the RV with a car from their Seabrook office for less than half the price of getting one at the airport.
• Wednesday evening I charcoaled pork chops for dinner. When they were done, the coals were still glowing, so I cooked the steaks in the fridge for a later date. Still great coals, so on went the polish sausage and a frozen hamburger patty. Got anything else, Neal? He refused to allow me to walk through the RV park asking for meat.
• Last night, Neal surprised me by coming home from work early, a dozen roses in hand. Even though we had steaks already cooked, he insisted we go out to eat. Fine with me, since he's still on a health foods kick and there's nothing "good" to be found in the trailer.
• The free time has allowed me to work on Income Tax Returns. Just a few details that I'll have to look up at home and I'll be ready to e-file.
• Began to design my 2007 Blog Book.
• Managed to get in two good workouts. Almost broke my nose on the bicep curl machine. Didn't know my own strength!

Tomorrow I'll head back home, where Jeff is minding the farm.

Tagged

I've been tagged by Jessica.

The Rules: Link to the person that tagged you and post the rules on your blog. Share 5 random and/or weird facts about yourself on your blog. or Share the 5 top places on your “want to see or want to see again” list. or Share 5 things you never pictured being in your future when your were 25 years old. Tag a minimum of 5, maximum of 10 random people at the end of your post and include links to their blogs. Let each person know that they have been tagged by leaving a comment on their blog. The tagees have a choice of which they want to do.

Five random facts about me:

1. I buy birthday cake when it's nobody's birthday. I just like birthday cake.

2. One of my pet peeves is the mispronunciation of words, i.e. similar (not sim-u-lar) and dangling prepositions (where's it at?). I have to bite my tongue to keep from correcting others' grammar and pronunciation.

3. I can't drive or walk past a Starbuck's without stopping for a Tall Skinny Decaf Latte.

4. I LOVE games. Board games, card games, crossword puzzles, Sudoku, charades, Game Shows, you name it--I'm in.

5. I cry every week during the weigh-in on The Biggest Loser.

I think all my other blogging friends have already been tagged.

Lauren's Visit

Lauren's been a bit under the weather this week, so instead of going to daycare on Wednesday, she came to see Nana. Even though I'm "retired" I seem to keep a very busy schedule and never have enough hours in the day. So it was kind of nice to be forced to slow down for an entire day and just spend time with my granddaughter. Fortunately, she was feeling better than the day before, so she wasn't fussy or clingy. I had never noticed how much she sings. One tune, in particular, seemed to be recurring. I'm sure she was singing "Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star." I suppose diaper-changing time is the appointed time to recite "Pat-a-Cake" as she rolls her arms one over the other. Or maybe she's singing "The Wheels on the Bus" -- I'm just not sure yet. Like her brother, she loves books. Her favorites are "The Rainbow Fish" (which I think Great Grandpa Smith has memorized), "I Am A Monster," "Rudolph's Bright Christmas" (mostly just pressing the button to turn on the red nose light), and "Where's Elmo's Blanket." Speaking of blankets, she has three special blankies, one of which must be available at naptime and bedtime. They are all very soft, but her favorite part is the tags. Lauren rubs the tags between her fingers and thumb, which must be very soothing. The tags are already frayed and will soon be only shreds of satin.

Agony of De-feet

It's snowing today. Jeremy stayed home with the kids, since they both have colds and his truck doesn't manage well on slick streets. He called this morning to see if I wanted to come over and "hang out." So I did.

Trista and Jeremy had told me about Jacob walking through the living room with his toes bent under his feet, heels off the floor. Jeremy informed her that he could do that too! So he did. What a sight! The two of them walking on their "toe knuckles." Trista and I have both tried, but couldn't bear the pain.

Jeremy and Jacob both enjoy having foot massages--with a twist. They want you to bend their toes backward and then forward, under their feet. They also like their toes to be squeezed as hard as you can. Neal shares this unusual love of torture. He can probably walk on his toe knuckles as well. We'll have to see.

Crash of 2008

Though I could bemoan the plight of our economy, I'm actually writing about the crash of my hard drive last week. I've had repairs done before, and they've always been able to retrieve all my files, but alas, not this time. The only thing on my computer when I picked it up was the software it came with. I'm more thankful than ever for the internet, and the fact that some of my favorite pictures are stored on blogger and facebook. I do back up my photos on cds every year, but nothing had been saved since our move in May. My advice: BACKUP--BACKUP--BACKUP! Fortunately, I back up my financial files monthly, so I'm ready for tax preparation. Whew! Saturday evening I went to print Neal's boarding pass, and found I had to re-install the printer! What a hassle. Then I got an email from a fellow VBS committee member with an .xls file attached. Oh yeah....I'll have to re-install Excel. Erghh!

Side note: Did you know that if the temperature is too cold, propane will not rise and you can't grill outside? Found that out at 5:45 Saturday evening. Eight guests were waiting for 2" thick steaks at 6:00. Anyone prefer rare?

Weekend

So...Jeff and I had planned to go to Louisiana with a group from his church on Friday and Saturday, but canceled due to the water pipe bursting in his house. As it turns out, the Claims Adjuster can't meet with him until tomorrow, so we're disappointed about canceling, but it also allowed us to attend Jeremy's surprise 30th birthday party on Saturday night. Trista had invited some close friends and family to surprise Jeremy for dinner at In the Raw. Sushi is something I've carefully avoided all my life. There have been opportunities to try it, but I've always wimped out. The mere fact that Trista (who handed down her food phobias to our grandson, Jacob) likes it, was a huge factor in my brief surge of bravery. To emphasize the extent of my bravery (or should I say, temporary insanity) I allowed my not-afraid-to-try-anything niece, Morgan, to order for me. I have no clue what all I bombarded my digestive system with that night, but I managed not to gag or throw up in my napkin. However, In the Raw will not grace my list of favorite restaurants, and I can't imagine craving sushi anytime soon. The good news is that Jeremy was indeed surprised. It was fun celebrating with him and enjoying family and friends.

My birthday gift to Trista, whose birthday was on the 9th, was taking the kids to spend the night with me on Saturday night and keeping them until 4:30 Sunday afternoon. So, you know that in that length of time, there has to be some noteworthy conversations with Jacob. He likes to eat Yogurt Burst Cheerios for a snack, but he picks out the pink ones and leaves the plain. Lauren decided she wanted some, too, so as I poured a bowl for her he informed me that, "Sissy doesn't like the pink ones." Guess he thought I would take her pink ones and give them to him, but Nana's too savvy for that. Sunday after lunch at Mazzios (with the help of Uncle Jeff--I'm not Super-Nana) I put Lauren down for a nap and Jacob and I retreated to the game room to watch MicroCosmos, a non-animated video, chock full of upclose and personal encounters with every insect you can imagine. I put the movie in the VCR, then asked Jacob if he wanted to lay on the couch to watch the movie. His answer, "That's not a good idea, Nana." (Later, during the 2nd viewing of said movie, he did lay on the couch with me and immediately fell asleep, hence the reason for that NOT being a good idea.) As we played in the game room, he asked, "Where's Uncle Jeff?" Me: "In the house with Lauren, watching a football game." Jacob: "Does he gots he's eyes closed?" Me: "Probably." Jacob: "We better go check." My exercise ball is in the game room (not getting much use, I might add) and Jacob loves to play with and on it. He put it in a big box which kept it stabilized--pretty genius, I thought. Then he stood on it trying to keep his balance. I listened as he talked to himself...."better be ca'ful, better be ca'ful..(losing balance and almost falling) see...I told you."

Jeff and Lauren "watching the football game"

Cold Again!

I know, two posts in one night. What's the deal? I just had to devote a separate post to my firstborn on his birthday. In fact, I cooked dinner for him and his family tonight...well, half-cooked would be more accurate. Chicken Cacciatori (or Kitchen Chakatori as he likes to call it), Caesar Salad, Garlic Bread, and Pasta. Oops! When I put the water on for the pasta, none of my burners would light. Could I possibly be out of propane!!!!???? No way! Uh....way. Thankfully, today's temps reached around 60, I had already showered, and I have a space heater AND LOTS AND LOTS OF FIREWOOD. A frantic call to Chuck, the Propane Guy and assurance of delivery tomorrow. I feel very resiliant since the Great Ice Storm of 2007. One night without heat or hot water will be a piece of cake.

Jeremy

Jeremy is 30 years old today. How could that be? Where's my little boy who won over every preschool and elementary teacher with his big blue eyes, played baseball for hours on end in the back yard with his baby brother, and plastered the underside of his bookcase headboard with boogars. I'll tell you where he is. He's being the best husband, father and provider that he can be. I couldn't be more proud of him. Happy Birthday, Jeremy!

...and the hits just keep on comin'

Jeff's house in Kansas City--Gladstone to be exact, is still sitting on the market. This is the last month that the realtor is under contract, and if it doesn't sell this month, he will have to do the unthinkable and "give it back" to the bank. My family, my small group, my prayer partners, my BSF group and several other individuals have been praying fervently for God to send buyers. Today, Jeff's realtor called to report that a water pipe had burst and the house was flooded. How much more can a man take? How much more can his mother take? I wanted to break down and have a good cry, but I was eating lunch with Janet when I got the call, and besides a brief tear-welling and crackly voice, I held it together. We had planned to immediately go to the gym, but Jeff needed me to go home and find the number for the insurance company, so we decided to meet back at the gym in an hour. Halfway home, and another call from Jeff--he happened to have the phone number in his wallet. I turned around and headed back, thinking I would be way early and could maybe sit in the parking lot and have a good cry before Janet arrived. But noooo. She beat me there and I had to again postpone my breakdown. Not that Janet isn't a friend I can cry with...but she's been a little on the edge lately, too, and I was afraid things would get out of control! The workout was therapeutic, especially since we're still learning how to adjust the new equipment--it kept my mind occupied. Sweating didn't hurt either. When I got home I knew I had two choices. I could either sit alone in the living room and bawl my eyes out, OR, I could go outside and scoop dog poop. I scooped.......and I prayed. (Is that irreverant?) I prayed that God would somehow turn this bad thing into something good. If you are not one of the ones I have enlisted to pray for this...consider yourself drafted. Let's see how God works in this situation.

Reflections of the Holidays

Heavy sigh!!! The Christmas holidays were jam-packed with family and fun. My Canadian family (Mom, Dad, Linda, Marcia) were here from Christmas Eve until New Years' Eve. With seven of us here, quarters were pretty cramped. I really missed my big house in Tulsa. But they were all troopers and made do with the limited accomodations. Lots of cooking...eating...Scrabble games...cooking...eating...Dominoes...cooking...eating...playing with the grandkids...cooking...eating...putting together the annual 1000-piece jigsaw puzzle...a trip to the Aquarium...and did I mention?...cooking and eating? I think I cooked more in the last week than I have in the past two years. I'm not by any means a Martha Stewart, but I actually found it to be enjoyable. Maybe because I was surrounded with people and had lots of help. Never had much of that when the boys were growing up. Maybe, too, because everyone seemed to enjoy eating what I cooked...another thing that was rare during son-rearing days. (Or maybe they just didn't see the importance of TELLING me that it was "good.")

Neal spent most of his "vacation" cleaning up from the ice storm. Cutting limbs, stacking wood, and burning brush. But he didn't seem to mind. I suppose he relished the time of solitude and retreat from the houseful of Smiths.

Now everyone's gone. The Christmas decorations are put away, and the house is clean again. I went to the gym today for my first workout of the year. New equipment--new routine--tomorrow I'll probably have new aches and pains.

Hope you all had a great holiday season. May God bless you abundantly in 2008.

Annual Santa Photo

A picture is worth a thousand words.

Christmas Program

We went to Jacob's Preschool Christmas Program last night. Jacob sang his little heart out and did all the motions, although he was usually a beat behind. We were very proud that he didn't pick his nose.

Lauren enjoyed herself, eating beef jerky and watching the kids.

Let There Be Light

As I was leaving for church last night, I was met by Jeremy & Trista who were driving around trying to see signs of power being restored in our neck of the woods. They were sure I must have it since my pole light next to the garage was on. No such luck--it runs off the generator. Trista was in tears and I could see that see was dangerously close to slipping over the edge. But it did look promising...the neighbors across the road had just flipped on their Christmas lights, so I called Super Alan and he informed me that they, too, had their Christmas lights on...via generator. The neighbor just south of me (see what a farm girl I am? not left or right, but SOUTH) assured me that he would call me as soon as he had power. A few minutes into Bible study and my phone started vibrating. Sorry--I gotta take this! Yes, it was my neighbor who now had power and was certain that I did too!! Yippee!!!! By the time I returned home from church, Kenny and Super Alan had disconnected my generator and turned my main breaker on. Sigh!!!!!! What a relief. It was a good time to reflect on how dependent we are on the single invention of electricity. The word "power" has a whole new meaning. I felt very "power-less" during these last few days. But how insignificant that power is in comparison to the power of God. How dependent are we on His power? That's the focus of my devotional this morning. "Out of nothing came light...Out of light came day." Max Lucado

I praise your greatness, my God the King;
I will praise you forever and ever.
I will praise you every day;
I will praise you forever and ever.
The Lord is great and worthy of our praise;
no one can understand how great he is.
Psalm 145:1-3

Day 10

This is officially day TEN in the dark. Our Electric Coop is projecting restoration of power today. I'm on pins and needles. Although we have been without electricity and phone service for 10 days, it is actually only MY 3rd day. I returned from the balmy Galveston Bay area on Monday afternoon, in time for my brother-in-law and neighbor to hook up my brand-spankin-new Yamaha generator. Sooooo....I shouldn't complain. But I will. :-) The generator is a huge hassle. Being new, the oil had to be changed after the first 5 hours....10:00 p.m. to be exact. And every 20 hours thereafter. A tank of gas will last approximately 12 hours. Since I am somewhat (who am I kidding), since I am very mechanically challenged, this is no easy task. Lucky for me, I have my 27 year old son with me who is, can I say, a little less challenged in that area. (Mechanical Engineering was not on the list of requirements for his Art degree.) We...errr...he managed to get the oil changed and topped it off with gas before turning in for the night. We restarted the generator--nothin to it. But alas, no electricity in the house. Are you kidding me? I check the breakers, check the connection to the breaker panel, nothing seems amiss. Time to call my trusty neighbor, Alan. Super Alan to the rescue! After only a few minutes he discovered that the plug that attaches to the generator itself had come loose, duh! Next morning, Jeff and I fill it up with gas again and Jeff goes off to feed his dogs while I restart the generator. After about 15 pulls on the crank I thought my stinkin arm was gonna fall out of its socket. JEFFFFFFFF!!!!!! As Jeff walks up he looks at the machine and rolls his eyes as he flips the power switch to the ON position. "Mom, it has to be turned ON before it will start." Later that morning, I trudge off to "town" to fill up both of my 5-gallon gas cans. Not easy to lift those suckers into the back of the SUV, but I'm tough and manage quite nicely. But it's another thing to pick one of those full cans up and try to fill the tank without losing more gas than is finding it's mark. Speaking of Mark--Super Alan's son comes to my aid yesterday afternoon to refill the tank. This morning I'm determined to take care of this myself. My newest gas can has a nifty spout on it that remains closed until making contact with the rim of the gas tank. To my chagrin, the seal had either frozen and split over night, or I didn't re-attach it correctly when I filled it, but in any case, gas sloshed all over the top of the generator and I thought I'd never get the dad gum spout in the hole! As Jeff finishes feeding the dogs he saunters over to evaluate my performance and casually says, "I think the gas goes IN the tank, not ON the tank." Thanks for those words of wisdom, Jeff.

The generator seems to be doing a fine job running most of the house, but we are being very conservative so as not to trip any breakers. Therefore, at night we are still using the oil lamps and besides the refrigerator, we are only using one appliance at a time. In Trista's words, "I will cry tears of joy if our power is restored today!"

Heading Home

Am I crazy? I'm going to drive back to Iceland...errr, Oklahoma tomorrow. No, we still don't have power at our house. I've gotten three different dates as to when to expect electricity...December 21... December 23...December 24. No one has the guts to say "the 25th or sometime thereafter." But, here I go, back to the north, with my SUV packed with a generator, 5-gallon gas can and 2 chain saws. Why go from relative comfort to a cold, dark house? Because my family will be arriving from Canada on Christmas Eve and I'd like to at least have clean sheets on their beds and food for them to eat. I also have my exciting colonoscopy scheduled for Friday afternoon, so that day is pretty much shot. Besides that, I haven't been able to put Neal's last 2 checks in the bank, and bills need to be paid. The good news is that the weather forecast is pretty good for the rest of the week. Maybe the utility workers will get a second wind and speed up the process. Or...just maybe...we'll have an "authentic" old-fashioned Christmas, just like the pioneer days. On the other hand, the Doubletree is sounding pretty good.

I've tried to use my time wisely while here in Texas. My 15,000 mile maintenance was due on the Honda....Check. Missed my appointment this week to have my gray hair colored, which was already long overdue. Found my trusty back-up in Houston. Blonde again...Check. Read the novel on ancient Rome that was a birthday gift LAST MARCH...Check. (You can quiz me on the life of Cicero.) Gone to the gym three times...not near enough, but better than not at all, right Janet? I've checked my email every day for my next chance to play Scrabble...Mom and Sandra kept up well, but Linda held up the game for a few days. (I may be the one holding it up this week, sorry guys.) I've read every blog I know of--some of them 2 or 3 times--and stayed up with the latest Tulsa news and weather via internet. I've started learning Spanish! Just happened to have the instructional CD's with me....muchas gracias, Terri! The RV is as clean as it has ever been and I've even emptied the dreaded "black tank" twice. I've watched 4 movies in their entirety. Been awhile since I've done that! I know where to find every Starbucks and Marble Slab Creamery within a 20 mile radius...should've made more trips to the gym :-(

Say It Ain't So......

While my hometown is still reeling from the ice storm, Houston is reeling from the Mitchell Report. The Rocket, Houston's pride and joy, surely could not be on this list of shame. While my first reaction was one of absolute belief and disappointment, I've decided to give him the benefit of the doubt. Even though there is no apparent plan to bring legal convictions against these guys, the mere fact that it could keep Clemens out of the Hall of Fame is devastating. Because he immediately hired an attorney and is VEHEMENTLY denying these accusations, I think (hope) that it is truly a vendetta aimed at bringing others down with the one who is already in hot water. If it is true.......what can I say? I think back to Jeff's college baseball days and remember so many of the players in the NCAA who had such a huge physical advantage over him. He was teased incessantly (all in good fun) about his size. Recently, on a trip to Lincoln, he went to the practice field where one of his coaches saw him in the bleachers and yelled, "Blev! The best 165 pound, switch-hitting third baseman ever to play for the Huskers!" Following Jeff in his college career allowed us to hear many hecklers--but the best hecklers in the Big 12 have to be at Texas Tech. Since Jeff was hitting .477 when they made their trip to Lubbock, the hecklers had to be very creative when it was his turn to bat. They came up with my very favorite in the 4 years he played college ball. "Hey Blev! Did ya leave your cows at home.......and your CALVES, too????" Even HE had to step out of box and have a little chuckle. (Who says they never hear what's said in the stands?) All that to say this. It just makes the moment Jeff hit a home run in the 2002 College World Series a little bit sweeter, knowing that it was his God-given talent and ability, without the help of performance-enhancing drugs.

Still in Texas

Since the entire Tulsa metro is without power and still under Ice Storm conditions, I was warned to stay put. What a helpless feeling!!! Reminiscent of 9-11 and Hurricane Katrina, I have to watch from a distance as family and friends suffer. Jeff informed me that we've lost lots of trees and the whole area looks like a war zone. I'm told that Quik Trip is about the only place open and fights are breaking out to scoop up the last sausage roll! Our house in Tulsa has roof damage and water leaking into the house. No one knows when electricity will be restored.

On one hand, I'm happy to be here--with my husband--80 degree weather--TV, lights, computer, air conditioning :-). On the other hand, I want to be back home to take care of my family and property. My controlling personality has taken a huge hit. They can survive without me. Good to know.

Today is Neal's anniversary. Two years ago, on this date, he parked the RV in this very spot...and it hasn't moved since. Seemed fitting that I should stay another day.

My plans to return home today were cancelled due to the ice storms in Oklahoma. My thanks to everyone who called to discourage my traveling today...luv u 2. Tomorrow's temperatures in OK are forecast to be in the 40's, so I shouldn't have any trouble--other than dodging downed power lines and trees. I've been informed that my house, among thousands of others, is without electricity. Meanwhile, we've had to have our air conditioner running in the RV, as the last several days have reached record highs--mid-80's. Ironic.

Just Gimme the Drugs

Refills for my blood pressure medication had run out, so as is customary, Walmart called the physician to get the "ok." The nurse called my house to inform me that they could give me a script for 1 month, but I'd have to see the doctor before any more refills. Now, mind you, I've been on this particular medication for about 15 years, with good results and no problems. I think this is a scam, to get money out of me and my insurance company. The appointment was made for Monday, the 10th. Last week, Neal seemed a little down and lonely, so, the loving and thoughtful wife I am ;-) I decided to make a trip south, and didn't want to try to be home in time for Monday's appointment. Thought maybe if I talked to the doc I could convince him that I didn't need to be seen....("I know you're so busy during this flu season, why don't we just do this by phone?"). No such luck. Could I just see the Physician's Assistant that day (Wednesday) at 11:00. Sure....will it be cheaper? Again, no such luck. Now to set the record straight, I really do LOVE my doctor. He's a good listener, and when I have a problem, concern, or request, he's very attentive and accomodating. But honestly, I'll be 52 in March and still not a word about needing a colonoscopy. You think I'm going to mention it!?!? The PA immediately noticed by my records that it was THAT time. Also that no blood work had been done for 3 years--bring in the needles. And maybe, when the results from my blood work come back, it might be a good idea to monitor my heart for a few days. Whoa! Am I her first patient this week? Isn't she ambitious! Just give me my drugs, for Pete's sake! She wasted no time in setting up the "dreaded procedure" for December 21. Neal's a little bummed that I'll only have to take pills in preparation--no large quantities of the yucky fluids, and that I'll be under sedation...unlike his unpleasant experience a few years ago. He's sadistic----now why did I feel the need to come to Texas to comfort him??????

Old Dog--New Tricks?

It's never too late to learn a new skill, I say. I took my first piano lesson at the age of 40. Today, I took a class to get certified on a semi-automatic pistol, in order to obtain a concealed weapon license. Indulge me in a little boasting...I was the best shooter in a class of 15 (including a couple of ex-military men). I earned 100% on my written test, 100% on the first 25 rounds of target shooting and 100% on the second (further distance) 25 rounds of target shooting. The only times my bullets missed the inner circle were during the times he instructed us to warn the perpetrator, then fire 5 rounds in rapid succession. "Stop" #*POW*# #*POW *# #*POW*# #*POW *# #*POW*#. As you can see, even the ones that missed vital organs would have been quite painful and somewhat debilitating. The Chief of Police, who was our instructor, suggested I post my souvenir target on my front door to discourage would-be intruders.

My next challenge will be learning the Spanish language, for our mission trip to Mexico next June.

More Conversations with Jacob

Jacob spent some quality time with me on Wednesday. He decided to watch a little Nick Jr. and eat a cookie. I was busy in the kitchen and he came to me asking for a bowl for his cookies. I gave him a plastic bowl and said, "Will this work?" He reluctantly took it and fiddled with it for a few minutes then said again, "I need a bowl for my cookies." I said, "Do you want another cookie?" "Yes." So I took the lid off of my huge ceramic cookie jar and held it low for him to reach in. Instead, he wrapped his arms around the jar and said, "That'll work!" and proceeded to the living room for more TV and cookies.

Later that day....I said, "I'm going to go pee-pee." Jacob: "You want me to come wif you?" Sure, why not? While taking care of business, Jacob explores the bathroom drawers and finds a razor handle with no blade. "Oh no, Nana, it's broken!" Nana: "Yeah, I guess somebody broke it." Jacob: "Probly Jeff."

Yesterday, I picked both kids up from school and daycare. We went to my in-laws to pick up a package I had sent there. (I take no chances with the dogs ;~) ) When we pulled up to their house Jacob said, "What place is this?" I guess he's mostly been there after dark. "It's Grandma and Grandpa's house." "OOOOHHHH, are the kids here?" (Memories of Thanksgiving.) "No, but the toys are still here." Later on...Grandpa walks in with an armload, including some deer antlers. "Gwampa, you shoot a big buck?" Which reminds me that Jeremy came in from hunting the other day emptyhanded and Jacob consoled him by saying, "That's okay, Dad, you'll get 'im next time." As we were preparing to leave Gwama and Gwampa's, Jacob begins stuffing his pocket with matchbox cars and tiny dinosaurs. He quietly walks over to me and softly says, "I take these home in my pocket, you can't see 'em."

The Year the Dogs Ate the GPS

THE YEAR THE DOGS ATE THE GPS

Twas three weeks before Christmas

And all is going well

We've done some Christmas shopping

And we're trying not to tell.

A notice of delivery

Has made its way to us

We're right on time with our gifts

So we're trying not to fuss.

When, out on the lawn

There arose such a clatter

Lita sprang to her feet

To see what was the matter.

When what to her wondering eyes do appear

All sorts of paper, what have we here?

A book? A paper? Oh, what a mess!

Or could it be? My parents' GPS?

Oh, Gracie! Oh, George!

We know what you ate.

We'll know where you are

Whenever you're late.

No matter where you go now

You'll never fool us,

Because you've eaten

Mom and Dad's compass.

This morning's discovery made my heart drop into my stomach. The DHL delivery man had left the package where it was accessible to the dogs. This was my parents' gift to each other for Christmas, and since they will be here for the holidays, they had it sent to me. Maybe not such a good idea. After giving George and Gracie a good scolding (which I'm sure had a tremendous impact) I gathered up all the trash and the GPS with broken display and multiple teeth marks and began the phone calls. First to DHL who in turn referred me to Amazon.com's claims department. Surprisingly, Amazon had never encountered such a dilemma. Hmmm. Go figure. Three cheers for Amazon who graciously offered to replace the GPS at no cost! So here's my free advertisment for the Customer Service at Amazon.com. Get online now and start ordering your holiday gifts!

By the way, my Mom gets credit for the clever poem.

Harvest

Believe it or not, I actually got excited about deer season this year. I know...pretty scary. Saturday, Jeff harvested the first deer on our land. Something about your son being able to hunt on land that belongs to you, land that produces game worth the hunt. It's just exciting. And although I talk about the solitude of the country, I had to hear it from a neighbor. Shortly after dark, the phone rang and the neighbor asked if Neal had gotten a deer. I said I didn't know, he wasn't back yet. He informed me that the truck was backed up to the barn and the barn lights were on. A quick look out the window and sure 'nuff, the barn lights were on. I grabbed the camera and trekked over to see. Should've waited a little longer--Jeff was wrist deep in the deer's belly and I saw more than I needed to see. Anyway...if you're the least bit squeamish, you may not want to see this picture...but I'm pretty proud.

Say Cheese!

This doe was hamming it up as she stood directly in front of our game cam and gave us a big smile. No kidding...it's an untouched photo! We've captured several forms of wildlife (on camera) including coyotes, squirrels, rabbits, skunks, an owl carrying it's prey, and a stray dog. This next picture reminded me of a scene from an Alfred Hitchcock movie. So that's where all the apple-flavored corn is going!

New Life

There are wonderful things happening in our church. Neal has always had faith that it would happen. I have always been skeptical. There have been many times that I've begged to "transfer membership" but Neal has held firm. He was right. What blows me away is HOW things have changed. The radical change has been in ME.

The past few years I have tried to cram ideas into the heads of stubborn brothers and sisters. I've read books and listened to talk radio on the subject of LOVE being the "crux of the matter," all the while not realizing that MY love for them did not come from the heart. I wanted to challenge their views. I wanted them to have the same desire for our church. I wanted them to change. Why didn't I just listen to myself, and take my own advice?

Recently, probably for about a month, I've been praying for God to increase my love for Him and for my church family. Wow! He showed up big-time in answer to those prayers. I know that it's Him, because it's a completely different kind of love than I've ever known. I couldn't conjure up this kind of love by myself.

I have literally spent years trying to convince others of the insignificance of some of the minutia that was causing some of our battles. Yet there were some things that I felt strongly about that were anything but trivial....to me. What I've found is this. When you really love your brother, you can disagree an a myriad of ideas, and it's okay! We all have one thing in common, the most important thing....faith in a God that sent His only Son to die for our sins. When I started looking at my brothers and sisters as children of the King...individuals that Christ died for!.....it changed my whole outlook. Many of you who read this will be relieved that I finally got it. There is much wisdom in the phrase, "it all starts with me."

Last Friday night we had a Ladies' Retreat. First one in a verrrry long time. Forty-four women were there! Unbelievable. I think others are "getting it" too! Praise God!

Busy Week

Nothing of significance to post, but I'm sure you're tired of visiting the site only to see that the jailbirds are still the latest news. By the way, just when we thought we had their escape route blocked, they managed to make a new one. The saga continues....This time they were gone all night. Of course, it was the night of our first frost, so none of us got a good night's sleep. More good-hearted neighbors were able to capture them and track Jeff down through the Vet in Kansas City. They had gone to Deer Run--the obscure neighborhood with all the mean mixed-breeds. Apparently nobody has told George and Gracie that they are full-bloods with papers and shouldn't be mingling with the lower crust. Sort of a Lady and the Tramp scenario.



Neal's trip home has been extended. Just as we were getting ready to leave for the airport on Tuesday, the call came. Something about the "cat feed"....shop talk....I have no idea. Anyway, he's home til at least Sunday. Needless to say the items on his honey-do list are slowly but surely being checked off. Yippee!



The bad thing is that our Ladies' Retreat is tomorrow night, of which I am one of the three planners--and speaker for the devotional. So it's been a really hectic week and I feel I haven't devoted much time to Neal. But he's been staying busy and has been very considerate of my running like a crazy woman.



Last Friday was our annual Wiener Roast and Hayride at the Ringle Ranch. We had about 90 people there. There are 40 women signed up for our Ladies' Retreat which is amazing. Seems like there's new excitement and life in our church. Very encouraging.



Enough of my rambling.