clumsy

I am currently icing down my ankle where I whacked it on the kitchen chair last night.  Gigi happened to call on her way out of town and I met her to get an ankle brace.  If it ain't one thing it's five.  I remember very well Dr. Algee telling me that falls are the number one risk for elders and so far he's been right on.  I am very fortunate that nothing has been broken yet but my exercise will have to be put on hiatus until this episode passes.  I'm taking Arnica like a madwoman and extra strength tylenol as often as I can.  Heaven forbid I should have some real live pain medicine.  That's the sad thing about opiate abuse.  People who really need them have to jump through hoops to get 'em.  

I lasted every bit of ten minutes on the debate last night, if you call it that.  Mostly it was Trump ranting and raving and talking off point and OVER Biden and Chris Wallace.  He tried his best to rein him in but he wouldn't have it.  Besides his deranged yammering on how the left is responsible for all the violence he had the audacity to attack Biden's son Hunter and bring up his past cocaine addiction for which he is in recovery.  It was a total shitshow.  The high point to me was when Biden told him to just shut up.  I didn't expect it to be a "debate" and it certainly was not.  It was a raging narcissist not following the rules of proper debate.  Somebody suggested at the next debate, if there is one, that the moderator have a button to turn off the mic of the one not speaking.  Genius.  

It has been like grand central out here lately with the county road department and Dyersburg Electric fixing things. I had a job interview yesterday and ended up putting on my makeup by a battery powered lantern.  I've been on hold for a week with Byrum Healthcare over ordering my ostomy supplies.  Nobody is quite sure what my balance is so I paid them the lowest quoted figure and ordered what I needed this morning.  A lot of it has to do with all the insurance problems I've had prior to Medicare.  I honestly don't see how people without some knowledge of healthcare navigate the system.  I guess they mostly fall through the cracks.  

The list of things to do seems to be endless but I'm trying to stay on track.  My new favorite show is The Good Place on Netflix.  It's happy and funny which is what I need.  Y'all be kind and helpful and keep the faith ^j^

you just never know

I had a wonderful time with friends eating mexicans today and did a couple of errands to boot.  After I got home me and the dogs were sitting on the porch and we heard a loud crack  It was another pecan limb across the road.  Granny neighbor was heading out with the boys and I went out there to consult with Bubba for the best way around which was through my yard and between "those two trees."  I was out there directig traffic when the county showed up to clear it.  Done in 30 minutes flat.  Maybe a tornado will take 'em out and the little ones will survive.  Always plan ahead.  

I have been cooking like a demon lately.  Last night's dinner was roast pork in Paul Yarbro's honey plus a little mustard and rosemary.  And I still have some left!  I made deviled eggs, spaghetti sauce and more.  I reckon I'm experimenting with my mama's talent.  I think it's in my genes.  

The mask mandate has been lifted in Dyer county but I will continue to wear mine and wash often.  It's a real thing.  My friend Larry just called with tales of woe about access to healthcare which I can totally relate to.  COVID has changed our lives and it won't go away until we get proactive.  I watched as much of The Social Dilemma as I could stand and it's some scary shit.  I just want to be in a little tribe with my people and not distracted all the time.  Zuck?  Contributing to a presidential campaign is not cool.  Cut it out.  

I'm terribly disappointed in the SCOTUS situation but not surprised.  These folks will stop at nothing to take away our rights.  Roe v Wade was decided in 1973 and it's still a talking point with conservatives.  So is the ACA which is coming up in November.  Right after the election, so to speak.

I finished all my cards and dropped them in the box at the USPS today. Will it make a difference?  Who knows.  But at least I tried.  Be kind and humble and help the least of these ^j^

busy body

Yesterday was full of fun, friends and love.  My upper body strength is kind of pitiful so it was fun filling up that bucket until it came time to carry it.  I got treated to a share fest at Mr Neely's end of summer crop.  Patsye and I had fun walking around, she barefoot, in the soft ground just plucking the low hanging treasures.  Never let food go to waste.  Somebody will eat it!  I shared some 'maters with Mike at the Dock, Lauren, Yaya and Lauren.  And I still have some to freeze.  Bounty, I tell you.

Lily cozied up to Amy and Mamye as usual.  I was busy addressing campaign cards when everybody showed up.  Reaves was grumpy because she had fallen asleep in the car.  Pulling out the glitter slime seemed to get her in a better mood.  Evidently it gets sticker over time so once it was in the bucket that went in the garbage.  We scrubbed the table AND her and got some clean clothes from my little dresser with her stuff in it.  We found a mushroom in the back yard and that was amazing to her as well.  She said it had a finger on it!  And then she blew me kisses bye while me and her mom shared a hug.  It doesn't get much better than that.

The cupboard is bare so I was forced to go to Kroger and the 'gentral.  I must say I'm impressed with shady general because they are stocking my flavor of propel.  Which is grape , by the way.  I once found mandarin orange at Kroger and loved it but nada.  I felt guilty a little about missing church but I had to get it done and I was still bone tired from all that pickin'.

There seems to be a common belief around here that pulling up Biden signs will make a difference in the election.  Think again idiots.  You steal 'em, we find them and recycle them.  It's called stealing, and Jesus doesn't like that.

Enjoy this balmy day if you can.  Looks like rain coming so I'm headed to the porch to bird watch.  Keep smiling and keep shining ^j^

dueling signs

Today was my appointed one to work the DCDP headquarters.  I was going through my morning internet routine when I got a text from my neighbor asking if I had called the county yet.  "For what?" was my reply.  She told me to look out the window where a girnomous pecan limb was blocking the lane.  Oh boy.  I called good old Jeff Jones, on his day off no less, and he was out here in his own truck with a chainsaw clearing that mess so we could get out.  Our paths have crossed many times lately for various reasons.  I can honestly say that this man, the Dyer County road supervisor, is one of the most dedicated civil servants I have ever had the pleasure of calling friend.  Thank you sir, from the bottom of my heart.

I made it to my appointment only ten minutes late and was amazed at the number of people who came through to see what's up at the Biden/Harris headquarters.  I was in awe, meeting new people and being with my kindred spirits.  One couple of ladies came from Missouri to get signs because they didn't want to wait.  Everybody is anxious and ready to get 'er done.  This is the most important election of my lifetime and I intend to give it all I've got in spite of the meanies and bullies.  A bunch of yard signs were stolen and also the two big ones at the headquarters. They were found and the law is now involved.  

The yard crew ran over my sign last week so I had to get another stand while I was there today.  It now stands proudly back in the yard across from the tiny Trump/Pence one that some scoundrel planted across the road from me.  Hey....it's all in fun right?  It should be anyway.  The vitriol and hatred gets us nowhere as people of community.  

Does campaigning make a difference?  Indeed it does, particularly when there are those who are registered to vote and don't use that privilege.  If you are not registered you can do so until October 5th in Dyer County.  Early voting starts October 14th and absentee voting is already going on.  There is no excuse NOT to take a bit of time and use the power that the Constitution gave us.   Have a good one.  And tell mama'n'them I say hey y'all.  

an ounce of prevention

Yesterday, I got a flu shot.  Today was Pap smear/annual exam day with my buddy Dr. Joyner.  We compared health issues for the both of us for the past year and it has been major for the both of us.  Not only is he my forever GYN but a former co-worker with whom I totally enjoyed working.  I never heard a cross word from him...ever.  Not even during emergencies.  He was kind and patient and knew that the blood bank lady was doing her best.  He will retire next year which he totally deserves.  

It was chilly enough for a sweater so I pulled out my favorite dolla' store cardigan and was surprised to find a pair of glasses in the pocket that I thought was long gone.  I love it when that happens!  Maybe there will be some money in the next pocket I check.  I'm pretty much pinching pennies and living check to check like a lot of folks.  I have some nice winter stuff thanks to friends who handed them down to me.  This girl ain't proud, just saying.

So the notorious RBG was carried by former clerks and there were a ton of them.  Meanwhile, Romney has flipped again and wants to fill her seat pronto.  I knew his middle of the road attitude was too good to be true.  The hypocricy surrouding this particular issue is astounding considering what happened with Merrick Garland.  

I'm back to a Breaking Bad binge for entertainment. My favorite part is when the dudes get blown up in the nursing home but I'm not there yet.  We are still anxiously awaiting the return of Handmaid's Tale to see what June is up to next.  

Pull out your flashlight and shine it on the world.  And remember who you are ^j^

it takes a village

Today was easy yoga day not to be confused with Thursday which is much harder.  As usual there were lots of pre-schoolers looking through the windows and waving at the old ladies trying to get fit.  Anywho, I lingered around a bit talking and noticed my two friends gathered around her husband's car.  She had the manual out which is never a good sign.  Her car is in the shop thus she dropped hubby off at work and was driving his.  The battery was out on her key fob but there's a special place where you can insert the key.  Check.  Only it got stuck!  She was parked where the pre-school picker uppers get in line so we were trying to get her out of the way.  Other friend left and I hung around to direct the drivers around her and sure enough an elderly couple pulled up behind us to be first in line.  After explaining what was going on, dude moved up and came back to try and help but to no avail. Other friend had called her husband to come by and check it out.  He arrived about the time that friend one's husband got there on foot from his office downtown.  He, of course, had a fob too and they used it to get the car started so she could get it to the dealership.  Lord only knows what it's going to take to fix that.  It was a three ring circus and exactly like something that would happen to me on any given day.

I headed from there to run errands for my client and all went well.  Except I forgot to give him his change until I got a few blocks away so here I go back to his apartment to deliver the money.  There was a funeral going on next door with all kinds of motorcycles lined up and as I was leaving they were all cranking up to go to the graveyard.  Me not being a biker chick, I was amazed.  

Today is Lauren's birthday and the poor thang has strep.  We plan on having some joint birthday face time after she picks Doodlebug up at school.  Where there's a will there's a way.  One of my must watch videos on FB is Kristen Hampton product testing in her car.  Today's item was an electric make up blower and as usual, she hit the ball out of the park. As usual she urged people to not jump into the mean pile but instead be in the nice pile.  She raises a LOT of money for good causes, just saying.  Plus, she's hilarious.  

As a side note, if you need mangled corn stalks for your fall decorationg needs, I'm your girl.  All tips will be appreciated.  Y'all be kind and tell your mama'n'them I said to jump right in the middle of that nice pile.  

Over and out from Pecan Lane.  Love ya....mean it.   

comparing labor

On this day three years ago and thirty six years ago Lauren and I were respectively in labor with Elizabeths.  Mine was at home until induction on the 22nd and Lauren was in the middle of a three day induction at Jackson General.  Both labors are still burned in my mind.  My family and friends had a pizza party in the waiting room while I was being induced and Lauren was just there with good old Mom while she waited and waited.  Her wait ended at 1030 the night before she turned 33.  I had never been a active participant in a C-section until that night and it was not pretty.  Her epidural did't work and she was screaming in pain with me and a CRNA holding her down and talking her through it until Reaves was out and Lauren got KNOCKED out.  I got to see Reaves weighed, measured and cleaned up. I was the first to hold her and I fell in love instantly.  She was normal and healthy and scremed like a banshee.  Later she spent some time in a lighted box for bilirubin, in Lauren's room.  That was when we found out that babies stay with Mama instead of going to the nursery!  

They are busy working the corn fields out here and I went for a walk and met a new guy who is the brother of one of my old work buddies.  One of the trucks had the window down and Ellie was steady trying to crawl up in it.  I left her there and she eventually came home.  This is the dog that I used to have to drag into a car.  Now, if there's a door open she's in.  Oscar, on the other hand has always loved to ride and hang out the window. Once when we were going to Newbern when Lauren lived there he jumped out the window and rolled through the cotton field a few times.  He learned his lesson that day..

Y'all be well and love your enemies.  Pray for them like Jesus said.  It's good for your own soul ^j^

justice for all

While the country mourns the loss of Supreme Court justice Ruth Ginsberg, the "other side" is already lining up to replace her with a conservative which was one of her last wishes NOT to happen per her granddaughter.  If you will remember what happened with Merrick Garland at the end of President Obama's term, we should be able to assume that the position will remain open until after the election.  Not so, says Moscow Mitch.  How is that for a double standard.  

The weather is so nice it's ridiculous so I did my little walkabout this morning and took it a bit further down the hill.  My next goal is to make it to the main road and back which is a mile.  That was my normal pre-op trek.  At one time I did 2.5 which was up to the golf course hill and back.  Maybe someday!

Lauren came for a brief visit last night and I loaded her up with presents for her and Reaves' birthday plus some home made goodies.  I also pitched in on a pinata and party favors.  Hey...you only turn three once.  Several of Reaves' friends from school will be there and I'm sure it will be fun for all knowing she and Mama Kim.  

There is lots of pleasure flying going on today and I  love to watch them soar.  I actually got to see my house from a small plane once thanks to Chuck.  It was a surreal experience to say the least.  I was a little scared but trusted him so it was all good.  I also got to see lots of floodwater in three states.  

Let us all be especially kind to each other during the contining pandemic.  Get your flu shot and wear a mask.  Flu and COVID are a particularly deadly combination.  

Love y'all like chicken ^j^

walk the way the wind blows

It is FALL y'all!  I struck out on a walk this morning with the dogs and made good time now that the road is smooth.  As I approached the dairy barn I ran into my old buddy Wade parking the gator.  We stood in the road forever talking and comparing dog pictures.  He is like part of the landscape out here and on any given day I will pass him on some piece of farm equipment.  They tried the corn yesterday and there was still too much moisture so this brisk wind should finish it up for harvest.  There is a familiarity in the farming seasons that brings me comfort.  I am such a country girl.

It wasn't always that way.  When I was growing up all I could think about was getting to town.  Now I'm happy chilling and watching nature take its' course.  I can feel my stamina returning little by little and walking should help that a lot.  I get lonely on occasion but I tend to be a solitary soul so I can deal with it.  Mostly I miss my girls.  Jackson ain't that far away but my car isn't very reliable so it's scary to travel.  As money allows, I will have the things taken care of that need fixing.  One day at a time.  

Y'all live in the moment and be nice.  And always, keep the faith ^j^

great day to be alive

I just walked a bit on the new road and it is glorious!  Plus the weather is nice.  I headed to south Pecan Lane to visit with my neighbor and all the critters.  Their garden is kaput just like mine.  It's so peaceful down there but don't let the tranquility fool you.  She will shoot somebody in a heartbeat!

I have no agenda today, and usually not on any day.  I like it like that.  If I had not taken early retirement I would have missed all this and still be waiting for 66.  I have been musing about all that I've lived through this year and thankful to be here.  Almost dying makes you tend to do that.  It was a long recovery and during that time one of my furbabies died.  I will never forget the kindness of my neighbor burying Sammy D in the cold rain.  He died peacefully on my office floor and didn't even make a mess.  Him was my buddy.  

While I was rehabbing the whole world changed as COVID hit.  This has been one helluva year for not just me but everybody.  I often wonder why God spared my life not once but twice over diverticulitis and I can only suppose He wanted me to experience the culture shock along with the rest of the world.  Maybe encourage more of the down trodden and smack down a few more idiots.  That seems to be my life's calling.

I managed to score a 2 pack of Lysol wipes today at the gentral' because they were unloading the truck.  Thursday is the day to find stuff up there, just saying.  As usual my Propel was on the top shelf so a nice lady had to climb the ladder for it.  I offered but she said NOOOO!  They are half the price there as they are at a convenience store.  I have talked with Yaya and Mamye in that order and then to my surgeon's nurse in Memphis.  it's complicated she said.  Sometimes a surgeon won't undo what aother one did.  We shall see.

Keep calm and carry on ^j^

under his eye

I woke up this morning after a an unusually good night of rest and headed out on a mission.  Several of them as a matter of fact.  I got almost to town and realized I didn't have a mask on me so I turned around and went to retrieve said item.  I was on fire after that.

Got what I needed at Kroger and made all my other steps except forgot the bank.  I got a fifty buck check for my birthday and will need it to get through the month.  When I got home and unloaded, I noticed there was a bunch of water in front ot the frig and it wasn't running.  Oh Lord no!  It's a complicated situation out here with electricity and whatnot so I unplugged and re-plugged to no avail.  This is where I decided not to waste the food and beverages I have and call for help.  That should arrive this afternoon but it's running now so there you go.  I sure don't need to have to buy an appliance right now.  Or anything besides food and gas.

I talked with my friend Lorna on the Gulf Coast and her road is washed out by ten inches of rain.  They are pretty much stranded, her and two kids.  Schools are closed but they couldn't get there anyways.  Such is life in 2020.

Y'all be hopeful and helpful.  Call an old friend and make their day.  Hug the next person you see.  All we need is love ^j^

a cheap date

It's a good thing I am so easily amused.  I awoke to the sounds of the county road crew tar and chipping the lane and got to watch the whole process in action.  I knew they were coming so I planned accordingly and cut out to run errands for my client afterwards.  The bumpy ride has turned into smooth and I get to drive all OVER the road according to instructions.  Pack that bitch down.  

If I am correct it's Terrific taco Tuesday.  For one dolla' only you can have all the tacos you can eat plus a margarita if you so choose.  I finished off the Mexicans from Sunday last night in all its' glory complete with cheese sauce.  To die for.  

As I sat on the porch this morning and watched the heavy equipment at work, it was cool enough that I shivered in shorts and a tshirt.  That changed later in the day but it's still pleasant and I wish it would stay this way for awhile.  We smooth got cheated out of spring 2020.

My neighbor came to visit and we talked about any and everything.  We are both healthcare people, well....all three of us.  Looks like we could start a bidness' or something.  Anywho, they feed me well and I'm protected from the zombie children at night.  That's always a comfort.  

This is the day the Lord has made.  Let us rejoice ^j^ 

marvelous monday

I woke up this morning early which seems to be the new normal for me.  I can feel my body shifting with the season as the dark comes earlier.  Like everybody else, I'm not always sure what day it is.  I made a pro-active step and got an appointment with a local GP which is long overdue.  The days of diagnosing myself with free labs are over!  I still have free doctor friends to advise me on the side but at my age there needs to be an established go-to person.  

My mental status is about like everybody else, fatigued and lost in the pandemic.  It feels as if we are slowly being pulled apart by a monster that won't go away.  My kitchen table is covered in glitter, a remnant of yesterday's slime party.  It is a happy reminder of good times.  Oscar is asleep in the recliner beside me and Ellie is sprawled on my bed.  All is well.

I am struggling to describe my feelings right now but the best I can explain it is as if I'm watching a movie of life rather than truly living it.  I am sure that is a common thread among all of us these days.  The west is burning, the Gulf Coast is storming and we are just weeks away from a critical presidential election.  And people don't wear their damned masks.  SMH.

This fugue state reminds me that it must be very hard to be isolated with no family or friends.  Even sadder are those who don't know who or where they are.   Dementia is a cruel thief, especially to the caregivers.  I once had a great aunt who laid in the nursing home staring at the ceiling for ten years.  It ain't pretty.  

Y'all help me keep the faith, umkay ^j^

slime time

The best five bucks I've ever spent is on a 2 lb bucket of glitter slime which is the biggest she's had.  That kept her occupied the whole time they were here today with minimal cleanup.  We got to snuggle and watch Looney Tunes and there was only one minor meltdown on the way out over eating yogurt in the car.  Momma won that one.  

I did online church today and I still can't get over how much has changed since we last met maskless up in there.  The staff expertly showcased discipleship using prophets and Jesus with only four disciples.  I learned a lot, but then I always do.  My take away was this:  We cannot survive without community.  Wherever one or two are gathered in His name we must lean on each other and reach out to the least of these.  In service. In missions. In everyday relationships with people in our tribes.  By meeting people where they are OUTSIDE the walls of the church building proper.  

I am postponing surgery again until I feel it is safe to go inpatient for such a major procedure.  Now is not the time with all the COVID going around and I really don't want to get it and die following an elective surgery.  If I had someone to help care for me, that would be a different story but it is what it is.    

My expectation is that the stimulus will come through in some form or fashion before the election because both sides want to claim credit.  At this point there is a lot of wiggle room and politicians need to think about what we are going through as the little people.  This is not the time to play hardball politics and leave us in the lurch.  And not the time for a new FBI building, IMHO.

So go out there and kill 'em with kindness.  Don't be taken in by false prophets or those who won't give and take.  And keep the faith ^j^

a day at the market

Saturdays have become a habit for me and I set the alarm to make it early to the farmer's market to get Sheryl's bread.  Of course I always ooh and ahh over everything and get to see people all masked up that I still recognize.  I don't usually dwell over the jewelry tables but a little voice called out to me and it was my old salsa sister Athena.  I had forgotten how much I love her stuff, all handcrafted and original.  She makes these little suncatcher deals with beads and a prism on the bottom and I've bought several from her and either broke it or lost it.  I picked one out and she gave it to me for my birthday!  How sweet is that. Of course I always visit Paige at Tie One On just to say hi and feel all groovy with the tie dye.  I've already given her a Christmas order.  This is how you support small business people.  

I watched a chilling video about 9/11 that I had never seen before and it brought the reality back in vivid detail.  Listening to all those scared voices made a big impact on me.  While I watched the horror on TV, those people were saying goodbye to their loved ones and tracking planes all over the place.  Never forget the feeling of being vulnerable.  

The heavens finally opened up and I drove home through a monsoon.  We need it.  The dust is so thick around here you can taste it and the corn will be coming down soon.  No wonder I have post nasal drip!

Tell somebody you love them today like you mean it.  Life is short and you may never get the chance ^j^

where were you?

Of course, I was at work.  I watched the whole thing go down on the TV in the doctor's lounge.  That was before every department had a television to entertain folks in the waiting room.  Ms Anita came and got me, told me to come with her and check out what was happening to our country.  It was and still is a surreal experience to think about somebody hating our country bad enough to fly UNDER the radar for five years and launch a totally pre-planned attack on America.  Pure terrorism.  The image that sticks in my mind of that is of the FDNY chaplain being carried out of the carnage.  

There was a memorial project founded by DC Roe that featured every life lost that day and I was a part of it.  My article was on Neil Levin who was pretty much a political high roller.  Over the Port Authority.  If I can find it, I'll post it in his memory and for all those other folks who lost their lives.  Nineteen years later and we are still a nation in crisis.  

Can you imagine what Trump's response would be to something of that magnitude?  I admire George W for sticking with us when the ship was going down.  He was a "good Republican" who cared about his people and got led down the rabbit hole by Cheney.  But that is history, and involved a whole 'nother generation of vets who still to this day struggle with the horrors of Iraq and Afghanistan.  

We will survive the current state of affairs but to me, it is a stern warning for the sheeple to wake up and put down the koolaid.  Think on that one and pray about it ^j^

get to gettin'

I carried on today like I was not 65 plus one day and did yoga with my buddies at the church.  The cat was AWOL but the curious kids were everywhere.  I saw my cousin once removed lining up and peeked out to say hello.  They are not supposed to touch nanything but they are all over those windows watching the old ladies stretch.  

I noticed the crack store has pansies but I'm gonna wait for some rain before I plant.  It is dry enough for a wildfire around here, just saying.  Note to self:  the wind is down.  Light that bitch.  There is nothing like a big bonfire in 90 degree weather. 

I hear the beginning of corn cutting over across the road.  Praise Jesus and all that.  It will be dusty for a bit until they are done so I will stay inside.  Then the wheat gets planted and it is a sight to see in the spring.  All green and beautiful.

The dogs are inside because it's hot.  Playing on the floor like kids ya know?  And Lily just lays there like the queen of our domain.  Be nice and kind.  Love your enemy until it hurts.  And for God's sake, keep the faith ^j^

driving 65

I have blessed since I got up with calls, messages, gifts and visits for my birthday.  I gotta' say I'm humbled by all the love.  I did a run for my client this morning and that was interesting as usual AND he gave me a birthday tip!   If anybody knows of a hookup on large print crosswords, holler.  The 'gentral had none and dolla' tree only 3.  They're all word search which I suppose is the new trend!  I'm like Calvin on that.  If I'm going to work a puzzle I want clues.  I am a trivia freak.

It's actually not too bad getting old and it sure beats the alternative.  In spite of an emergency that almost killed me this year I'm happy and healthy.  When it gets to the point where I can't do for myself, just push me off a cliff after a bottle of salty caramel.  I don't want to live if there is no quality.  My daughter knows this and respects my wishes.  Y'all make sure you got your ducks in a row.  You never know what's around the bend and it helps to have a healthcare advocate.  

Thanks for all the happies and right back atcha.  Love ya....mean it ^j^

church cat

I was greeted at the entrance to yoga central by a most handsome cat who is obviously well fed and cared for.  He let me pet him and meowed as if I could enter safely.  Only the doors are locked so Joetta had to let me in.  We had a larger group today than last time and it still kicked my butt, but in a good way.  PL saved the day with the electronics.  And I got a gift of honey for my birthday.  

After that I headed out for a Yaya visit and she also gifted me with something sweet.   We have spent more time together in the past three months than we ever did back in the day.  And I love it!  My former co-worker came out to dig some monkey grass but the ground was so hard the sharpshooter wouldn't even go into the ground more than an inch.  She said she would be back after the next rains.  

My inner  pyro has been trying to start a fire for a week with no luck.  Still too "damp" and "windy." I know better than to proceed when it is this dry.  Last time I tried it I caught the whole field on fire and made the front page of the local paper..UCMTSU.

I feel so blessed.  Around birthday time and fair week is when I really grasp that I am an orphan because we had that tradition in common as a family.  Daddy was a president at one time and I totally bricked the year that it was dedicated to him.  It was too soon for me, but Joey did the honors.  I think that was mighty appropriate.  

Please be kind and meet folks where they are.  Animals too.  All we need is love ^j^

take it easy

Happy Labor Day y'all!  Even after two years of retirement I still don't take for granted not having to save lives on the hamster wheel that is healthcare.  We alternated holidays by the year and by group which meant a holiday off was never a three day affair because it was sometimes your regular day off.  I can't tell you how many times I had to peel a bawling Lauren off my leg when I went to work on Christmas.  Every other year for 41 years.  Same with Thanksgiving.  I don't miss it, at all.  Especially during pandemic times.  

Times are different now.  I have very little family and a few close friends and we all pretty much social distance.  That's not nearly enough hugs for this old girl.  I wear my mask and sanitize the hell out of everything but I do love a big bear hug.  That is what I miss the most.

Labor day is traditionally the opening day of the Dyer County Fair which is also a casualty of COVID.  I heard there's gonna' be a carnival there anyway but you wouldn't catch me there if it were the last place on earth.  Those folks put up and take down all across the country.  That's why I never get on the rides.  I go for the atmosphere of winning a prize on a painting or animal.  We took Reaves to the petting zoo last year and she loved it.  

The corn is ready to go and unless it rains, it will probably be this week.  And yes, there will be pictures of whatever crawls out from under there.  Maybe some dead corn children zombies or something.  The main thing is the increased visibility.  Looking forward to a wheat and beans year for 2021.  Bubba and Sally came out to check on the downed pecan limb that was loaded enough to drop.  Sally is sick and I can tell it in her eyes.  She's an old and faithful girl who loves to ride in the back of the truck.

Y'all be kind and thoughtful and wear that mask.  And remember all those who are laboring on this day like it's not the end of a long weekend.  And as always, keep the faith ^j^

child of god

With it being Labor Day weekend and all Mary Beth's sermon was based on how we identify ourselves by vocation or all the many other roles we take on.  Sister, mother, brother, friend to name a few.  God appeared to his disciples to deliver the great commandment which was pretty much like "Okay, now that you know it's me, go forth and make disciples of the world."  And always remember who you are first and foremost.  His child.  A gift from God to the world.

Lauren came solo today to celebrate my birthday with a cow card and some candles.  We had the rare chance to visit in the quiet that is just mother daughter time and it was a joy.  Reaves went swimming at the lake with her Daddy and Mama Kim.  It looks like fun was had by all!  I remember chanting to she and her friends every time they left here as teenagers "Remember who you are."  Sometimes we get lost and do stupid stuff but knowing your own soul and having the conviction to do the right thing go hand in hand.

Just don't be mean to kids and old people and furbabies or anybody else for that matter.  Mean is not a good role model for those looking to believe in something bigger and better than what we have.  It's all about unconditional love ^j^

small biz

The farmer's market is my new crack.  There are a couple of favorite vendors there that I try to support because their products are awesome.  This late in the year there is very little produce but I did notice a guy with a truckbed full of corn and he was busy as a bee selling that and apples.  There was a wooden cutting board I wanted but I'm this close to broke so I passed on that.

It has never bothered me living in the country....not scared at all.  I keep my doors locked and whatnot.  This morning about 3AM I heard a loud noise....loud enough to wake me up.  About that time Ellie commenced to barking her head off outside and my first thought was that the escapees were trying to kick in the basement door.  It does NOT open easily.  I laid there for awhile and didn't call the law, ready to stab a motha' with my Navy Seal knife but it got quiet after that and I dozed back off.  Who knows.  Random bump in the night!

The weather is nice, perfect for outdoor fun so I think that is where I will head now.  Y'all save me some ribs or whatever you got.  Grill and peace out ^j^

ramble time

Today has been an interesting one to say the least.  I headed out mid-morning bearing the gift of Arkansas black apples from Daddy's memorial tree at the cabin.  I got to spend some time with one of my favorite people so that was a win win.  Later I got all inspired at the DCDP party headquarters and signed up for some outreach.  We were all six feet apart and wearing masks only you have to lift it up when you want speak and be heard.. That is acceptable.  There was one young lady from Germany among us.  And all the usual eager women ready to do you know what.  We are like a tribe of people on a mission, so to speak.   And it ain't just girls.  

In other news this is Labor Day weekend which is the official last summer holiday.  From here we jump to all the rest.  I'll make the deviled eggs.  Y'all bring the rest for Thanksgiving.  Love you....mean it ^j^

the smell of basil

I have a tiny little one cup food processor that I've had forever.  I  just chopped up some basil to make pesto and the whole house is permeated with it.  Ahhhh.  Simple pleasures.  

I have not done yoga or any kind of exercise except walking since my surgery.  I decided to try out the class at FUMC today and felt right at home with an Amy Carroll video.  There were two of us in that room at the family life center and we looked up once to see a bunch of pre-school kids peering through the window at us.  More than likely they were wondering what the heck those old ladies were doing on the floor.  I love it.  Yoga is the best thing for my joints right now and I will continue.  When I first started I was with a young 'un who was kind of hard to keep up with.  Amy tailors her workouts to different age and strength groups.  Perfect for me.  I snapped crackled and popped my way through it and feel much better.  

On my way back from visiting Yaya I passed by a YUGE Trump party on the parking lot of Tractor Supply.  I was tempted to pull in and check it out but I knew it would just piss me off so I kept moving.  If that space was donated by said company, I will never shop there again.  This girl don't play.

Aside from that, I'm just happy to be alive and ready to vote.  Now that we have a headquarters locally, things will be kicking into high gear.  I am totally ready to stamp, address and otherwise advance the cause.  At least I will know I did my part whatever happens.  Remember who you are ^j^

score!

I have learned by trial and error what are the best days to hit up the 'gentral which is Wednesday when the truck runs.  I haven't seen disinfectant wipes in eons and made a special trip to test my luck on that today.  Not only did I get Clorox wipes but also a bucket of glittery slime for Reaves.  It was raining ( as usual ) but I caught a break to unload.

I've decided to go gray and have a pretty good cut right now but I seriously needed to get rid of the facial hair so Misti did the honors for me this morning.  This is Misti the angel who hauled me out to the shop while I was at the rehab to get my first head washing two weeks post-op.  PLUS she brought me turkey and dressing the next day.  Don't ever doubt that there are good people out there.  

In other exciting news the Dyer County Democratic Party now has a headquarters locally that is to die for.  It took some back room hustle by folks who have connections but our first meeting will be there soon.  It was kind of a heavenly reminder from above to never give up the good fight.  

I have missed yoga for some time and this poor old tired body needs it so that is my goal for the morning to meet some friends and stretch.  I feel like my whole body has been scruched up in a ball since the surgery and the fall.  It if ain't one thing it's five.

Y'all be happy and healthy and wear your mask properly.  It took everything I had not to lecture at kid at the store about covering his nose!!  Namaste ~

riders in the storm

I am so easily amused it ain't even funny.  I sleep with a box fan on and the power went out about 8:15 so my eyes popped open when the fan stopped.  About that time some nice looking guy from Dyersburg Electric met me at the door ( in my gown tail ) to tell me that my power would be off while they did some tree trimming.  There is something about bucket trucks that fascinates me so I watched as they expertly moved two guys around in buckets with chain saws calculating how to cut the limbs where they fell in the road and not on the corn.  The power lines were in a precarious position with lotso limbs over so they are good for now.  Right after all that the yard crew showed up and the road grader commenced to doing its' thing so I left to do errands for my client.  It was then that things got interesting.  

I saw the storm coming on the radar when I left my client's house with a to do list.  I could hear the thunder and it was dark as night when I got out of the 'gentral.  I took a wrong turn trying to avoid the traffic and decided to go on by Lucky to get my purchase.   While I was in there the freakin' bottom fell out.  My umbrella was in the car and I decided to wait for it to slack up so me and Linda had some nice quality time watching the monsoon and chatting.  It passed pretty quickly so here I went to deliver the goods to my client.  Needless to say my shoes are soaking wet.  

Lauren and Reaves came for a late afternoon visit and for the first time EVER that baby took a nap here.  I watched as Lauren rocked her to sleep and with much stealth got her laid down and covered up in the recliner.  She had errands to run so I watched that precious angel sleep until she actually woke up sliding out of the chair.  And wanting Mama!!  I didn't know it but Lauren was actually in the driveway on the phone so she saved the day quickly.  Reaves was NOT a happy camper and ready to go home.  Watching it all as a grandma is pretty cool.  That baby is a Mama's girl no doubt.  They have had a lot of unscheduled time together due to COVID but that comes to an end on Thursday.  I do believe they are both ready for some sort of normalcy.

I am what you would call a progressive which means I'm pretty much on the left but close to the middle.  It amazes me how many people are afraid to come out of the closet because they are afraid of Trumpsters.  When I get my Biden Harris sign it will be up front and center even though nobody will see it out here in the boonies.  Being silent means going with the status quo and that is a dangerous thing.  If you are going to talk the talk walk the walk.  You wanna' wear a MAGA hat, go for it if that's what you believe.  Life is too precious to waste on political division.

I hope that you look for the wonder of the little things in life like a beautiful moonrise or a sleeping child.  That is what makes the world go 'round.  Peace and Love ^j^