it's all good

OMG what day is it anyway?  Oh yeah...it's New Year's Eve.  I remember a time when we shot fireworks and banged pans at the old house.  That was Lauren and Kristen and back then we stayed up late.  Not so much now, ya' know.  2023 will come  and go like all of them.  I've been thinking about the highlights of my life this year and they are many.  FUMC has become a constant for me.  Our church is struggling with all kinds of issues and I am an active part of that discernment,  Not like a member of the team but, you know.  I pray for us and enjoy every hug I get up in there.  I called one church member/friend yesterday just to see if he was still kicking because rumor said he was dead.  Wrong guy y'all.  

My girls have become much more of a constant with Gaga.  They come here at least once a week and it's always an adventure.  Sometimes a meltdown but lots of play time.  I do believe she gets manic out here at the cabin.  Her new bike needs the training wheels put on so I'll have to call in a favor soon because spring is coming.  If the neighbors don't slow down I'll be really mad.  My next yard sign will be "this is not a raceway."  Nuf' said.

I hope that 2023 treats us well.  I think about a lot of things like world peace and saving nature.  Climate change is real and killing us at every level.  Biden is not a bad POTUS though I noticed that gas went up thirty cents today.  Damn you Saudi!

Let's all hold hands and pray.  It's a start ^j^

infrastructure

I have heard through the grapevine that we are in a boil water advisory from Fowlkes to Finley which is DSCUD.  Evidently workers have been searching for a leak and have not been able to find it.  Which means that we may be using Forked Deer river water if the leak is under there.  I was so looking forward to a hot shower!  But it can wait, ya know? This is a very poorly managed public utility district that is privately owned.  The city of Dyersburg has offered to buy and manage properly but uh....no action.  Meanwhile, we drink river water.

Dyersburg buddies had lunch today with the addition of Cathy's grandson who is 7.  We exchanged gifts and enjoyed a great meal.  I did some serious cleaning today before the girls came for a visit.  My major purchase was this fancy ass mop bucket at Lowe's.  We shall see!  First I'll have to run the ShopVac and sweep, not necessarily in that order.  

I have my first assignment as a stringer tomorrow with the bee guy down at Finley.  I've seen it several times before and it's an impressive operation.  This time he will explain the entire process from winter to spring and beyond.  He has a seriously sweet dawg down there at the shop just like the barber does.  Trust me, I know what I'm doing.  If it involves critters I'm all in.

It's almost 2023 y'all.  Let's pray for kindness and peace in a world torn to shreds.  I don't care about politics here in the US anymore.  It will always be thus and so, like with Russia and Ukraine.  Anybody who stills supports Trump is an idiot and not in our best interest.  He may never pay for the damage he has done, but I'd be happy if he would just retire to Florida and leave us alone.  Over and our from Pecan Lane ^j^

no room at the inn

My friends just left here after a visit between hotel room check in and out.  They have been living there for three days since their water froze and were forced to move to another one today because of "company policy."  Meanwhile, their son called to say that they need to come shut off the pump because the trailer is floating!

Lauren came to visit me in my sleep last night because she just couldn't pass up an opportunity to see Mama on Christmas.  I was snug in the bed when she arrived at sixish and came in fussing about me not being locked down.  I was on the heating pad and comfy so we just felt each others' presence from room to room.  If she hadn't been obliged to take care of their cat Henry I believe she would have crawled in bed with me.  

I woke up softly again today and most of the aches and pains are gone.  Being on antibiotics has messed with my fragile gut but that's over now.  I can breathe!  

Just got off the phone with my down the road neighbor and exchanged holiday greetings.  She caught me up on what's going on with them and I feel lucky.  And blessed.   

Love ya...mean it...bye ^j^

merry christmas!

It is a rarity for Christmas day to fall on Sunday so today's service was quite a treat of lessons and carols.  There was no water and no heat because, you know.....Elliott struck the pipes.  I got there early after breakfast with Bubba at Huddle House so I sat and visited with Mary Beth and watched some of the musicians practice.  Everyone was huddled into the front section ( also a rarity ) and we ended up circling that section and holding hands while singing Go Tell it on the Mountain.  Mary Beth started the hand squeeze and it went all the around from her back to her.  I was holding my little cousin Livvie's hand as we sang.  It was a wonderful Christ filled service with love everywhere.  

Santa has come to see Reaves both yesterday and today.  Lauren posted pictures of her in awe of what was under their tree.  She opened what was here yesterday but was most enchanted by the kitchen set that Johnny brought from his mother-in-law's house.  Her grandchildren had outgrown it but it's perfect for a budding chef like Reaves.  Now she can make CoCo LeBlanc all day long.  I'm soon to be shopping for an apron and chef's hat.

I have the afternoon to myself with the critters, and maybe Lauren later.  The weather is trying to moderate and recover.  Tomorrow will be our first day above freezing in days.  For some reason I was lucky enough to avoid the rolling blackouts.  I guess my little corner out here was considered not a big priority to cut.  I have learned that birds like Cheeto puffs when snow is on the ground.  Kind of funny to watch!

Y'all remember what it's all about and love each other ^j^

this is a test

In light of current weather conditions that include rolling blackouts, it seems petty to note that I've lost a whole month of FB posts.  Home takes me back to December 8th.  Only on the PC though.  I've been advised to unplug it when the power goes out to avoid frying upon surge.  No, I don't have one of those surge protectors.  I did buy some new power strips so I can use multiple things from the scarce outlets in this house.  I now have one in each room.  

Since I've been cooking more I have noticed how dark it is in there under the counters so I'm gonna' look for some lighting when time permits.  I've just changed clothes for the first time in 36 hours because I was pleasantly layered for survival.  A hot shower is next on the list.  The girls are on the way to visit so there's that to look forward to.  Traffic is moving more today but there's still a lot of ice.  My friends had to get a room when their water froze.  

So your flight is delayed?  I'm sorry but it's Elliott's fault.  We  knew this beast was coming just like we know when a hurricane will hit.  And this thing is bigger than any hurricane ever!  Al Gore was right, ya' know.

I hope your holidays are merry and there is lots of love in your life.  Jesus loved us THAT much which is what we celebrate right now.  His humble beginning as the miracle or virgin birth.  Be not afraid, said the Angel.  And we are not ^j^

a bird in hand

Of course the stormed rolled in last night and continues to blow like the dickens.  I opened the back door to find three birds trapped on the back screen door hanging on.  When I stepped over to open the screen door they took off into the house and chaos ensued.  Bubba was here to check on the heat situation which is, though tolerable, not real good because of the wind.  The thermostat is set on 70 and 62 is all she will do!  He managed to catch one bird in the house with his hands and set it free.  He also snagged the one on the porch and put it out.  There may be one left but I'm sure Rosie will get it eventually.  Right now she is outside but she'll let me know when she's had enough.

And so, we hunker down and wait.  At least the sun is out giving an illusion that all is well.  The snow is just enough to be pretty.  When I went to thaw my car out I kind of enjoyed sitting there with the hot air blowing.  It took about fifteen minutes to de-ice the windshield and set the wipers free.  This time next week it will be in the sixties.  That's Tennessee weather for ya'.

Christmas is coming fast on the heels of this deep freeze.  I'm not sure when I will see the girls because of family stuff and the weather.  Santa will visit Lauren's house and there's a ton of stuff here whenever they come.  Heck it may be New Year's!  She has a new to her Barbie bike here with a helmet thanks to Patti.  I imagine it will stay here for awhile until we get the training wheels on and the cold subsides.  We're going to play dirty santa with what's left gift wise and everybody will get what they want.  I have no idea what's in the ones that I didn't wrap.  

It's time to rotate socks and layer some more.  Y'all stay warm and keep the faith ^j^

lisa

She worked with Bubba at the fuel center and made him deviled eggs like I do.  She brought them in this plastic thingy with a loose lid and I inherited that when she died because Bubba still had it from Thanksgiving.  I hear she had a massive heart attack last year around this time while wrapping gifts with her sister.  Boom.  She was gone, and that is how I got the egg tray.  Bubba had it from a Thanksgiving delivery.  It has been filled and refilled several times since then.

The storm he is a blowing in rapidly.  There was an odd quiet before the wind got up and the snow started.  Slush first.  I can feel it coming through the cracks in the logs and around the windows.  Electricity just blinked so let us pray.

Merry and bright here ^j^

laura

It was just a few days before Christmas that she was out Christmas shopping and was killed by a drunk driver on the way home.  She was a nurse, mother and friend to many.  Her parents found it in their hearts to forgive him while he was in prison.  It was a Christ like move.  Later her sister moved and her mom died and then it was just Steve for a long time.  I remember going to her funeral on Christmas Eve with my daddy and a whole bunch of other FUMC people and hearing Wade preaching on the hardest funeral in his young life as a pastor.  She was one OUR kids that grew up together with Wade as a cornerstone for youth development.  We actually wept when he left to become a UMC minister.

I am reminded of this because Lauren is headed back to Jackson with toys that secret santas delivered today while we were at Headlines.  Joy and I both got our hairs done and we look stunning.   I think Nina found the perfect length for me.  After experimentation with a longer look, I had to go back.  She took about an inch and a half which lightened the load.  Drake kept stopping by to rub my hair because it was so soft!

Let's all pray for peace and good will.  This storm is NOT playing and we have to look out for others.  I may be calling you if the power goes out to see if you have a warm spot.  Feliz Navidad ^j^

rise and shine

I woke up yesterday feeling like I'd been hit by a truck.  Intense muscle pain in shoulders, neck and back.  The longer I was up it worked itself out some but I still had to get in a comfy position to sleep.  It was better today but I still felt like I might have pneumonia so I called trusty old MedSouth and they worked me in with Dr. Turner.  There was an x-ray and tests for Flu and Covid, both negative.  He said they are seeing tons of flu still.  Everybody around these parts is preparing for the big historic freeze.  A bomb cyclone for Christmas.  How niiiice!

I really feel the wind down here in the flats and this windy rain will be the test for our roof repair.  If it still leaks, they come back.  Note from roofing guys for those considering a purchase>>>don't go the tin route if it requires screwing down.  

The girls were planning to come over last night but got side tracked when Reaves opened an early present that required lots of trying out the happy napper.  It's all she really asked for..the rest is just gravy.  With all these angels flying around, life has been less stressful for them. 

Delivery trucks have been burning the road up this week.  Propane guy ran for somebody else and he hit me up last week.  I'm ready for this go around with the weather, praise be.   Last I heard we're still headed for Huddle House on Sunday which is kind of a cute tradition. Every memory begins somewhere ^j^

be an elizabeth

In a world where everyone is a prophet, I learned today at church that is the meaning of my name.  And Lauren and Reaves'.  Spreader of good news that the Lord is coming is what the name sums up.  I was today old when I learned that by name, I am a prophet and a child of God.  Of course Elizabeth Jane grew up known as Janie.  In school Reaves is enrolled as Elizabeth because that's her first name.  And Lauren Elizabeth is her mama.  I doubt that Mama picked my name out for that reason but it's still pretty interesting.  

This past week has been a roller coaster both physically and emotionally.  Oh, and lots of humility.  I still believe that we're all in this together and that kindness will prevail no matter how dire the situation seems.  If you have a warm house, food and good friends nothing else matters.  And for those who don't ?  It is our calling to be Elizabeths to them.  My friends work the Salvation Army five or six days a week.  There is a big rush at meal time and I've waded through the folk while dropping off donations to the thrift store.  Sales from their store go toward food costs for that daily meal.  I've seen some pretty pitiful sights down there and I want to help them all.  

Elizabeth Reaves is quite the artist and loves to cook like, for real.  She has to stand on a step ladder to reach the counter but we've made some amazing memories in her great grandmother's kitchen.  Her last invention was Coco Le. Blanc spoken with a perfect French accent.  It turned out to be like a banana smoothie except not frozen.  Lauren and I both tasted it out of respect and pronounced it wonderful.  

Happy Advent to you and your mama'n'them ^j^

where we sit

If you go to a small church like mine you know there will be a whole family filling a pew or two, especially around Christmas time.  Mama was very territorial about our pew....front row, back left from the altar.  Daddy was in the choir but he came to sit with us after the special.  Our family has moved closer up front behind the acolytes and cross bearer.  Thomas was my favorite but he has folks following in his footsteps, like Charlie.  

There will be no whining today.at.all.  We have been blessed with a lot of miracles this past week and I'm having to make a list for thank you notes.  You might get 'em by March.  When things settle, so to speak.  

My friend Marti is on the last leg of her trip to Croatia back to Nashville and she has shared something from her journey every day.  I love virtual learning!  Bubba and I have a date for Huddle House on Christmas which has become our custom when it's just me and him.  It's amazing what you see up in there on that particular day!

Y'all be blessed.  Love ya....mean it ^j^

dazed and confused

Hey kiddos.  I'm still alive but not kicking too high.  Lots of drama everywhere you turn, ya know?  It's not just me either.  We have to keep our focus on what's important like family and friends.  My roof has been leaking for about a year (only with wind)  and of course last night was a monsoon with lotso' wind from the south.  When I woke up from a short sleep to go potty I moved to the couch to get out of the rain and , of course, Oscar went with me.  I made a wrong move and he bit me so I was up again tending to that.  Once the wind died down I peeled off the top blanket of my bed and moved in there until el baggo decided to blow out early AM.  Then Bubba and the roof guys came by and found a fix for the leak while it was still wet.  They'll probably be here early tomorrow.

I'm out of inspiration for story telling at the moment so I'll be around but not so much as usual.  Call me if you need me.  But not after or before 8.  I have given it all to God one more time. Peace be still ^j^

comedy cures

I've been weeping off and on this morning and decided enough was enough with that. A good cry is , on occasion, a cleansing experience.  Before I went on Celexa I cried every single day.  And then a week later I was s like "huh, this is what feels normal."  I didn't cry for a very long time which was odd.  Now I can go for days on end without shedding a tear unless it all builds up which happened today.  As I cried together with Babygirl we pondered over God's will. " Just maybe it's a sign, I said. "  We started our conversation while she was in the ortho office being told that her knee is totally blown out.  She was scared and overwhelmed with all the other things on her plate.  But every time we talked after that, she sounded calmer.  And we prayed...like a lot.  Sometimes you have to hit the wall to become humble and that's what happened with me today.  I have been blessed with so much in my life but these kids are my priority.  There is a back story, but that doesn't matter right now.  

I tend to look at each little fire that shows up on my path as an opportunity to listen and move forward.  I am by no means perfect, but I try.  And in the end that's all any of us can do.  People are basically good, but when the devil gets involved watch out!  If we truly believe that God is good and Jesus died for us, and we should pay it forward in insignificant small ways.  I got some gas today at the chicken store and there was a guy out there in the cold actually cleaning the pumps.  Without gloves.  We chatted about chances of snow and then I went down to the pecan store to sell mine and Patty's efforts.  Twenty four pounds of Stuarts at a decent price.  

As a last resort I watched some new SNL and laughed for the first time today.  Steven Martin and Martin Short no less!  Colin and Michael.  Laughing is sooooo good for the soul.  I should have been out there rolling pecans but nah.  They will still be there, even after the rain tomorrow.  

Believe ^j^

blowout

You would think that I would have learned by now how to master the ostomy thing after almost three years.  But noooooo.  I constantly have leaks and pancaking which means frequent changes.  Supplies are expensive and so are specialist visits.  My insurance is amazingly good but it only pays 80% on durable medical equipment which leaves me with a chunk out of pocket.  I have to have it so, there ya go.  I am discouraged on many levels as I struggle myself and watch my daughter struggle as well.  She will lose her car if she doesn't come up with 200 bucks by Wednesday which is a long shot.  She has a large cleaning job which she can't do tomorrow because she can't even walk on her bum knee.  She is down and I'm right down there with her.  Prayers up please!

It was on the third Sunday of Advent when my mother went to church and her hip broke.  She didn't fall, it just snapped and she crumpled down on the floor of the church.  EMS was called and I showed up at the ER for what would be the beginning of the end.  We chose the least invasive surgery which was pinning.  That Christmas Lauren and Bubba and I showed up at the rehab with our traditional cheese grits and sausage casserole and some gifts.  I remember looking at her in that private dining room looking so pale and weak and I knew the end was near.  She never went back to assisted living.  She did amazingly well during the first surgery and even the second one where they did a hip replacement.  It all went south when she developed a pain in the belly which turned out to be a ruptured diverticulum.  Her white count was 40K even with four different IV antibiotics.  The only fix was yet another surgery which the surgeon said she would not survive.  And so began hospice and bringing the family together.  It snowed the day before she died on January 23rd.  I was at work and Lauren spent the day after her shift at the nursing home, quietly snoozing in the room next to her.  Tommy arrived from Virginia that night and was with her when she passed.  All of this was only five months after Daddy died.  It was a lot in a short period of time to say the least.  

I think that going through all those deaths in one year (there were more) helped to push me over the edge to retire early.  Life is short.  My parents had long and blessed lives but it shakes me to the bone to think that I am 67 with several health issues.  I reckon I can blame my diverticulitis on heredity.  I have always had IBS with alternating constipation and diarrhea and the one medicine that worked for me was withdrawn because it contained Librium.  All of my scopes showed diverticulosis so it was destined for that to happen. And I have osteoporosis like my mother did, and can't afford the 5K injection with a hefty co-pay.  I've had four and showed little change on this year's dexascan.  

I watched the FUMC cantata online with el baggo this morning and was totally amazed at the musical talent shared in celebration of our Lord's birth.  My cousin is in the choir and I've never heard her sing a solo but WOW.  She has a beautiful voice.  Tonight is the children's program and traditional figgy pudding with men carrying the luscious cakes out on lighted trays while everybody sings.  

I sound like I'm whining a bit, and I suppose I am.  Trying to believe that it will all be alright is hard sometimes, especially when your child is down and out and you can't help.  She has tried so hard for so long and keeps getting knocked down time and again.  

Bubba just brought me some honey from the hives out here, frozen meat and pyracantha limbs from Daddy's old tree that he transplanted in his yard.  It was a gift from Daddy's brother-in-law Jere many many years ago.  What goes around comes around.

Y'all be blessed and thankful for the miracles in your life ^j^

forgive and forget

It's odd how, over time, the things that we got crossways over fade away..  I remember one particular time when a cousin died and I got caught on messenger calling my aunts "bitches" because they didn't tell me.  Come to find out, nobody knew it but her husband and it took him awhile to process the whole thing.  Not his fault, but mine, for making totally wrong assumptions.  Several family members were mad at me for years over that.  But then time passed and we have been reunited in the oddest of ways.  I have one surviving aunt who lives on the road to Paradise and have visited her a couple of times lately.  She's the baby.  I just got a Christmas card today from one of those I thought would hate me forever.  Miracles indeed.

My living room is a total wreck of gifts and pecans plus two live animals who surround me every move I make.  Rosie woke up before daylight when I had a blowout and did the total change.  She then proceeded to play football with the nuts that are drying on a blanket.  That didn't last long because I put her little butt outside and proceeded to sleep until 10.  I am so thankful not to have to show up at the hospital come rain or snow or ice.   At 6AM, no less.  Once it was really dark and there was water on the road to the by-pass and also on the lane.  It's hard to judge how deep it is, especially in the dark.  I called in late until daylight came.  I was truly scared to try it.   There were other times when the boss hubby would pick us all up in his truck so that we were fully staffed.  Never fear!  

When I was a kid we would have to move to town for a week when the backwater was up or electricity went out.  Fortunately we had a couple of good places to go.  That was 60 years ago and still, you can never predict what the Forked Deer will do.

I'm jamming to TS0 and chair dancing.  Hope you are all doing something equally fun ^j^

after the first

I'm shifting into the holiday spirit and learning that some things just have to be put on hold, even when you're in survival mode.  Christmas is not about giving people stuff, but when you have a five year old who believes with all her heart?  You make it happen in her eyes.  Thanks to one elf in particular.  The way I see it we celebrate Christmas every time we do something kind for another person.  Like leaving a tip on the gas station tree or giving anonymously like blog fairy did.

Christmas snows are pretty rare in West Tennessee but I've witnessed a few in my lifetime.  Once was when I was a kid and my Daddy drug something through it to make things look like sleigh tracks.  He was a very devout Christian who turned from Baptist to Methodist because of Mama.  She said he didn't go with her for a couple of years but then he began his journey as a lifelong member/important person/choir member, etc.  I bet he served on a thousand of those committees that meet ever so often.  He said SPCR was the one he disliked the most.  

Patty did the crawl today, in wet leaves, to gather more nuts for the cause.  She's like me....loving the bounty and not wanting to see it all go to the squirrels.  There's plenty for them anyway.  Since it will rain all day tomorrow I plan on spending the day with my Babygirl putting gifts together and seeing what we have.  I'm a firm believer in Santa not being the main character.  Gifts should come from individuals who know you like a book.

Y'all keep it merry and bright ^j^

LEP

I never thought I would be pregnant because I had been off of birth control for a couple of years and nothing happened.  I went to the gyn who did a test and told me that my cervix was blocked.  Whatever kind of scope he did, Lauren Elizabeth Parker was born in September 1984.  I was pregnant when me and Pnoler bought the house on Tickle street, thanks to a kind property manager.  We lived there until she was four and then we cut out for the farm.  The last big event I remember there was when she fell off the boat trailer and had a head injury.  We were only 1 minute away from the hospital but shit!  I remember my friend Terry Nash holding four by fours on her laceration and then a surgeon sewed it up.  

It took me about 20 years to clear out that house on the hill with a full basement and attic.  I kid you not, there were rabbit feed bags up in there.  An old coal stove that kept Charlie's house warm in the winter.  There is a chimney but it's not functional and just for looks.  Soon there will be a gas one like mine.  Slowly but surely it's coming together.  Lauren and her friends grew up there with us.  I was probably a bit stupid for drawing a crowd because they were a rowdy bunch.

She learned to ride a bike there in our rough ass driveway with her Daddy showing her how.  He liked to go over to the riverbed and fish on occasion.  She was definitely a Daddy's girl.  Every little girl needs a Daddy like that who will make them feel safe.  

I am so proud of the woman and mother that she has become.  There were times when I doubted but I prayed and they were answered.  We are closer than ever and understand each other's lives thus far.  Hey...we lived it together.  Me and her friends sat with her for three days until 'dat baby was finally delivered by section.  I was the first to hold her because Mama was knocked smooth out.  I called Daddy and told him to hop on over there for a recovery picture.  And he was there long after that.  Still is along with Mommy Kim and big brother.  

I'm rambling so it's time to go do something constructive.  I've been hearing a strange cat that is NOT Rosie but outside somewhere.  No.More.Cats.  Go dig up mice in the cornfield or something.  I refuse to be known as the crazy cat lady.  To quote Darrin Devault....."stay encouraged"

Peace. Love. Joy. Hope ^j^

tried and true

I am still struggling with Poopie management and thank goodness I have friends to help out.  I'm considering changing brands of equipment to see if that helps any with the leakage and soreness around the stoma.  I'm having to change so often that my skin is literally breaking down. Time for  some collagen.  Got an appointment with a surgeon and my dear pro-bono ostomy nurse looking at solutions.  Her husband has one too and she knows the game.  

In other news, Georgia polls are closed and we shall see.  I'm such an optimist that I take the Trump thing of this day as a sign of change.  Lord knows we need it.  Dude is totally paying for fees concerning Mar A Lago from  PAC funded by his followers.  What is UP with you people?  If I were a Republican I would be seriously looking for a strong candidate who is a little bit more kindly to reaching across the aisle.  Neither party should control the whole country or dictate how we live.  That would be democracy.  You can't just "tear up" the Constitution.  It doesn't work that way.

It's gray for a week around here but, it is what it is.  My AC is on because it's so humid and warm.  And Oscar is smooth laid out on his new bed ^j^

edo

When I was working at the hospital we used to be scheduled for extra days off resulting in less than 40 hours per week.  We all liked it because sometimes we had two in a row off.  The catch was that we were "on call" in case somebody didn't show up.  No extra pay for being on call.  You would get a message early in the morning or late at night saying come in at "this" time.   It was a budget cutting move way before 12 hour shifts came along.  I had night and weekend call for the first ten years that I worked there, but got paid for it.  I slept in a little room with a tiny bed and a phone that would wake me up at odd hours to do something important like an emergency transfusion or a stat chem or CBC.  At that point we only cranked up the big chemistry machine once a day and boiled tubes on call.  With a spectrophotometer to read and calculate chemistry values.  One of my dearest friends now is a urologist who showed up around that time and bitched me out for not having creatinine on the stat list.  I cried.  And he came to lab where I showed him how it was all done by one tech on call.  And he apologized because he didn't know how it was.

I had an EDO today so I took my brother to lunch at Dave's.  We normally meet on the porch in the afternoons but it gets dark pretty early and it's cold.  He is pretty much my rock these days, along with a few others.  I have about 30 pounds of pecans to get cracked for gifts.  It's the little things, 'ya know?  The secret Santa toys are hidden for now so that Reaves won't find 'em.  I need to check the budget and see where we are.  No clothes for her this time around thanks to Patti!

I could seriously have a yard sale with what I've got piled up in here, mostly art and whatnot.  I've only been here for two years you know.  Y'all be merry and bright.  Love you.....mean it ^j^

hanging of the greens

My buddy Calvin and I have a tradition where I help him decorate for Christmas by climbing chairs and hanging the garland (with bows) over his mirror.  I used to have to haul the tree out of the bathtub but that's already done.  I think he just likes me crawling up on the chairs for entertainment!  He only has one leg and just wishes he could do it.  It involves a lot of moving the garland this way or that way to make it just right over the table.  I used to do his shopping until he got a motorized scooter.  From his apartment he can hit up Green Village and the strip mall behind it which includes a convenience store, a 'gentral and a liquor store.  I guess he could ride over to the Chick and get some tasty bites, but he likes to cook.  

Church was great today, in more ways than one.  We have serious business on the table but then there's Advent and the joy of the virgin birth.  I managed to read the scripture with only one word stumbled upon.  I sat behind a recovering addict who was at the pulpit telling her life story.  She cried and I prayed.  Reaves was being all shy and stuff and I read while LP was delivering her to the nursery.  We sat together, she and I and our little family of cousins, and received the good news.  

I made some cookies but that wasn't good enough for Miss Elizabeth so she proceeded to make a smoothie out of yogurt, cookie dough, nutella, peanut butter, sliced bananas chocolate chips and everything else we could find.  It's chilling in the freezer as I type.  Lauren and I went through the clothes that Patti brought and she took the winter stuff back to Jackson after buying kiddo hangers.  They have a big closet but no drawer space.  As mentioned before, she is looking for cleaning jobs to supplement her income.  "I don't want you to work two jobs Mama" said Reaves.  And then she gently explained why it was necessary.  All is well.  Poor Rosie hung right in there with 'dat baby even with all the holding and hanging on.  They ended up in the office chair with a fuzzy blanket watching Jillian and Addie.

It was a blessed day ^j^

the blog fairy

Y'all stop me if you've heard this one because Lord knows, I've told it a gazillion times.  It was Christmas Eve and when I got home from the hospital the mailbox held a surprise.  It was addressed to me but the return was also me.  Anonymous, if you will.  I was single and tired to the bone of being a caretaker and keeper of the peace.  I don't remember what city that first gift was from but it was a money order for a thousand bucks.  For little old me.  I praised Jesus and Mary and whomever the kind soul was who knew that I needed help.  Like, bad.

But wait!  Another package came in January with Kroger gift cards and they just kept coming for a year.  Many were personal so I knew that blog fairy was familiar with me and my likes and needs.  Once it was a book of encouragement that I still have, signed by the fairy herself.  Or it could have been a guy fairy.  Who knows.  Said fairy even sent me a bronze peace sign which I think Lauren swiped.  I still have the Christian fish.  The second year was more sporadic and then I earned my wings and tried to be a fairy myself.  My mother was like that what with writing notes to make people go find their presents!  I guess I got my love of stories from her.  

Yesterday I went by the church office to rehearse for being a liturgist.  I had to ask Karen to blow those words up to about 14 point.  Poor Delores got stuck with all those ancestors' names and I just get to read about how the miracle started.  AND sit with my girls.  They will be here two days in a row because Nina has to fix Elizabeth's hack job on her own hair.  Don't tell me you never did it!  She is getting a party size bag of cheese puffs from me, for sure.

A couple of miracle births happened many years ago that changed the course of who we are and how we treat each other.  Let's celebrate ^j^

big mouth

I am a writer at heart.  I know a lot of people here and yon and I love to tell their stories in addition to my own.  You have to be careful about that what with everybody being all pissy about being protected from the evils of FB identification.  Last week when Reaves was here she was playing on the laptop and somehow managed to pull up a Google pic of this cabin!  "it's a camera!" she said.  More likely a drone that swooped low.  It kind of freaked me out.  I reckon I'm easy to find and hard to love.

I went by the church today to pick up my scripture for Sunday and thankfully it doesn't have all those names that preceded Jesus.  My contribution will be about the angel visiting Mary and telling her that she would have a virgin birth.  Elizabeth was also was great with child, the one who would dunk Jesus and make him forever.  Not making this up kids.  It's biblical!

Both dog and cat are accounted for and comfy with full bellies.  I will be in the bed shortly after doing all the chores.  My latest happy arrived late yesterday via USPS.  I'm set on warm stuff for this winter.  Christmas day service with be pajama/casual.  I am all about that!!

Namaste ^j^

lean on me

I can't tell you how long it's been since I slept in the same bed except with a cat who warms my butt.  Lauren and Reaves don't stay overnight because there's one full bed for the three of us.  Of course there is a couch but that's critter bedding.

I woke up this morning and headed to the doctor to get Poopie checked out and he gave me some valuable advice about my gut situation.  Less invasive is better.  Every time you have a surgical procedure it's a risk.  Then today I visited my GP to get enough meds fo' free from the corporate pharmacy.  Who the hell knows what I'm taking.  With multiple health issues it's always a grocery list of drugs.  I'm about ready to quit all of them and just die peacefully.  Nope....not giving up.  Just looking forward.  

When Reaves graduates from high school I will be 80 and her daddy will be 70.  What are our odds, really.  Lauren and Kim are kickass moms who love that girl to death.  They would do anything for her, literally.  They each have their own struggles yet they have managed to raise Reaves up right.  At five big old years old she is wise beyond her years.

I got a surprise phone call from an old friend today about a writing opportunity which I am all about.  I'll be a stringer, so to speak.  More later on that.  I don't do nights or holidays but I can interview and write like a mofo.  I have always believed that Dyersburg and the entirety of West Tennessee has a lot to offer.  Small business is rocking, not only this town but many others in our area.

I don't have any answers to what is going on in our little world right now.  Too much bickering and partisan politics.  Extra bad abuse of Mother Earth.  Lots of gun violence.  Blame in on who you will but I believe that it's a wakeup call for all of us to hold hands and sing for peace ^j^

here comes santa claus

Tonight is the annual Dyersburg Christmas parade. FUMC does a lasagna supper before and I dropped off my cake this morning on the way to paradise.  I know I should be down there helping but I've been there done that.  I haven't been to the parade since Lauren was a little kid.  The hospital used to sponsor a float and I would work on that.  Those days are long gone.  

We had a joyful day and I had the privilege of visiting Angie at her office and got a great big hug.  We go wayyyyy back.  My daddy donated his O neg back when Chelsea was born and needed immediate transfusion.  I don't remember who did the delivery but she's alive and well and has a kid of her own.  

Me and my partner in crime are about to hit it hard after the possible tornado and do some pecan business.  It never gets really rolling until December after all the leaves are gone.  I'm selling them for 5 bucks for a gallon bag un-cracked.  Buyers can then go to Pennington Seed and Supply and get them cracked there.  

play that funky music

Welp, this old lady shook her booty last night at the Funkmonster concert and maintained quite well.  It was a fun show, as usual.  These guys are masters of the game and you just can't NOT dance to their music.  My friend Churlisha celebrated her 60th birthday in style and even got called onto the stage by the band.  I'm usually in bed no later than 9 and last night I was up until 2AM.  My gracious DD brought me home about 1130 because I know my limits but I wasn't ready to go down just yet because of the adrenaline, I reckon.  Hey....it was good exercise!  I played hooky from church today even though I was awake in time to go.  My body said "just no."  That's the extent of my partying for the year.  

It never ceases to amaze me how I can go to an event like that and don't know but ten people in the room.  Of course Bubba knows all of them and their mama'n'them.  We had a special table right smack in front of the stage.  That was one of my perks for being a sis who helped out.  There was an Indian wedding going on next door and they bumped up their music way before we did but were gone before the show was over. 

The wind is howling today and I can hear pecans hitting the tin roof like bombs.  If you are on my gift list, that will be your present.  Money is tight and 'dat baby needs some toys.  Well, actually she doesn't NEED them but she still believes so there ya' go.  

Y'all keep it in the middle of the road ^j^

partay

It's amazing what three people can do when they're on a mission.  Me and Bubba and Mayberry got the whole room set up for tomorrow night in two hours.  The folks from the night before left it quite clean which is nice.  We are expecting a mayor or two to attend because well, it's a big deal in this little burg.  There is also an event going on next door which should be interesting, to say the least.  

I woke up this morning way early because bedtime came quickly after serving up all that food and two hours of playing.  Like the little hostess that she is, he was gifted with a Chickfila mint put from her little hand  to Uncle Bubba's after he left.  He don't do kids but I think this one has him wrapped.  In many ways, I still think she looks like little Janie.  She for sure has the attitude.  Sassy and sweet.  Truth or dare.  Smart and emotional, but learning.  A friend and I were talking about the mess that gets left behind from all that super energy.  Next time, she picks it up!

I am scheduled to be a liturgist at FUMC on December 4th.  It is not the first time I have spoken from that pulpit but a first at this.   What started out as a staff shortage has turned into more interaction with laypeople who are willing to serve.  That is my happy place where I turn off the phone and forget about everything but the word of God.  I may not always make it to Sunday School but I'll be there for the service, Lord willing.

I went over by Curlisha's place today to bring her a ticket and some real live vanilla.  We watched The Bradys with Mark and then sang along with Adele.  She has a big birthday coming up tomorrow!

Y'all be well and believe ^j^

afterglow

Well, as usual, it took us about fifteen minutes to eat what I spent a week cooking!  Reaves skipped the rich stuff and had a banana with yogurt.  I ain't at all used to eating like that and Poopie let me know right off the bat that she didn't like it.  It's just sooooo good going down. What followed was a rowdy couple of hours playing everything that the princess wanted. She cheats at cards, BTW.  When she tried to swipe three of my forks we had a lesson on stealing and going to jail.  She broke a little trinket and as she repaired it with a glue stick I told her it wouldn't work.  By golly it did.  

Bubba and I have a couple of busy days ahead of us prepping for the Funkmonsters.  I'm really just a groupie at heart and I love seeing an event get pulled together.  He's a master at it with tons of nightclub experience.  Once when they had a really good bluegrass kind of group I was the official cook.  I had spent 300 bucks on food from Sysco and many hours cleaning up that nasty kitchen.  Needless to say, the food went away.  That was while I was still at the hospital.  The kitchen was an absolute grease pit, left by the previous owner. Good thing we never got inspected.

The rain has begun for real and I'm praying those girls make it safely back to Jackson.  Lauren met a lady the other day who said she had nowhere to go for Thanksgiving.  She will be delighted by the leftovers as well as the other girl.....umm at the vape store maybe. There was enough there for 10 people but we didn't let it go to waste.  

Going to the doc(s) next week is on the schedule.  Something is going on that lets me know that things ain't quite right.  If you are in tune with your body, you just know.  IMHO, I've had a sinus infection for about six months.  Taking antibiotics with an ostomy is tricky even with a probiotic.  My stoma is a source of chronic pain, even on a good day.  And because of renal issues I can't take any sort of NSAID.  

We had a couple of teary moments today, mother and daughter like.  Our friends gave her some money to help with gas and stuff and I pulled out pictures of her Daddy that I had found.  She sat with Reaves and told her who was in all of them.  She is such a good mother.  She even taught her how to meditate.  "Be the pond" is the chant with palms together, eyes closed and legs crossed.

I am thankful for all of you for being a part of my life over the years.  We have many memories and it's odd how they pop up at the strangest times.  Keep the faith ^j^

thanks be to god

Yesterday USPS delivered me the most comfy outfit I have ever worn.  I slept in it and wore it all day today!  There is another set on the way.  This is what I live in during the cold months.  It's been pretty warmish so that's nice.  Rain all day tomorrow!  I noticed this afternoon that somebody raked my front yard under the pecan tree.  Surely there are some nuts still left.  If not I will call the law and turn in my video.  Just kidding!

My friend Churlisha and her niece LaShonda went shopping today and bonded.  That really makes me smile!  They make jewel creations as well.  Shon has had a hard life and deserves a better place to live closer to family.  It's her decision I reckon.  You can go to court and divorce your parents!  Sometimes it's the next right thing.

I actually went to Kroger on Manic Wednesday before Thanksgiving to get Reaves some fruit in case she doesn't like the menu.  Who loves you like Gaga kiddo?  Surely you can find something you like among all the goodies.  I actually found a pack of 24 huge paper cake plates at the 'gentral today.  Much better than those plastic ones with Frosty.  I have one due to be cooked on Sunday and delivered to FUMC on Monday.  Plus I promised the crew at Headlines another. With holly, no less.  Drake gets deviled eggs because he's cute.  Dude almost knocked me down today while telling a story. It was hilarious!

I got a new storm door today only Oscar didn't know it and he ran head on into it because....glass.  He wasn't used to that.  I think it stunned him for a minute but now he knows. I'm about to round all the furbabies up and call it a day.  Thankful for all y'all ^j^

the real deal

I'm gearing up to make cakes around here and I happened to remember back in the day when Mitzi Lou would give me some that her aunt had made with real vanilla beans and liquor.  You just can't beat it.  Sooooo, I hit her up for some and picked up a huge bottle today.  She giggled when she told me to take it easy with that stuff, and felt kind of embarrassed about being seen in a liquor store at 10AM buying some to start another batch of vanilla.  The beans are quite expensive and she said sometimes she reuses them.  Then it has to sit and simmer for a few months until you get full flavor from the bean.  That's what you call REAL vanilla extract kids.  

I feel really bad for those folks in New York buried in six feet of snow.  I bet there was not a loaf of bread or a half gallon of milk left in Buffalo grocery stores because they knew it was coming.  While talking with an old friend about this that and another and he schooled me on deer hunting and how their migration patterns have changed over the years, which was totally over my head.  We chatted about theology and grandkids and told each other Happy Thanksgiving.  I love friends like that, who tell you to "call if you need me" and mean it.

Patty shared some of her decadent fudge with me and that got shared,  This is the woman who volunteered to take me home last Funkmonsters after I had worked the door and actually had only two beers.  Better safe than sorry.  I can't see at night anyway.

Mamye just left me with a couple of pieces of pizza from the Grab and Go.  Most delicious!  And with that, I'm off to watch something totally mindless.  Y'all be safe ^j^

 

Mama

Were she still alive she would be close to 90 like Daddy.  They died five months apart and those stories have been told.  I live in their home now, me and the furbabies.  And sometimes random visitors come by and make my day.  It's been cold since I got up after changing Poopie twice during the night.  Needless to say, the washer is running.  While I planned on making a pajama run to Kroger pickup the lort' blessed me with a cleanup and warm clothes.

It is a burden, but at least I'm above ground.  Tomorrow is church day and LP is joining me without Reaves.  Dat' baby has a sleepover tonight and a birthday party tomorrow.  She cut her own hair, BTW.  I have nightmares of Lauren's sleepovers during the early years.  When she was little it was always just Allison and Julia and Cyd Mitchell.  I made the serious mistake of taking on a bunch tweenagers on a couple of occasions  Lerd, what was I thinking.  They were a rowdy bunch out here in the country.

Sleepovers and play dates.  That's what makes a kid's world go around.  Plus strong parents with an equal devotion to the child as a little person learning who he or she will be.  I wish that I had spent more time talking to my kid about emotions.  Unfortunately I was just figuring it out by the time she was four.

Y'all be merry and bright.  And most of all thankful ^j^

and you're next

Actually, I love everybody and you might be next.  I was out and about today and ran into another Stafford getting a shot.  Mine was pneumo and hers was flu.  She noticed that my tags were still hanging off of my jacket and kindly reminded me to rip 'em off.  Everybody thinks we are related and probably are somewhere down the line. I paid off my pharmacy bill and got some levothyroxine because that's important for my hypothyroidism.  It's time for me to visit my GP and check out what's happening with my overall health.  I love this guy because he talks to you about what's going on and keeps a check on things. There's also a GI appointment on the books to find out about the condition of Poopie, the stoma.  

I finally scored some FRESH frozen purple hull peas so Thanksgiving will be complete.  My friend gave them to me and I gave her one of Athena's suncatchers to remember her son who died this year.  She is facing first "everything" without him which a really rough patch.  He was an only child who died way too young.  She is now raising his son.

I've been wondering why Oscar is trapped on the back porch for the past few days and figured out that he can push the screen door open and then he's stuck.  Note to self:  fasten that latch when you leave girl.   Next week will be warmer so it will be pecan central around here. I'll check it out tomorrow because I have absolutely no where to go, thank you sweet baby jebus.

Peace and love to all y'all ^j^

trending

FedEx delivered my new barn jacket in bright blue today.  I've ordered other things that I like the looks of because I have some money right now.  There was a Kroger order for, among other things, frozen purple hulls for Thanksgiving.  That is a staple on our thanksgiving table.  Back in the day they were hand picked, shelled and frozen from my daddy's patch.  Not so, anymore.  I miss that like, a lot.  I am not the farmer that he was.  I can preserve it and cook it but definitely not keep a garden going all summer.  Too many weeds here in the South.

I would like to have some chickens for fresh eggs but the coyotes would more than likely have them for a late night snack. Plus there is no roosting place for them.  I'm all about big dreams and no action.  Just sittin' here waiting for somebody else to do it for me.  It's just me now and I can't even manage to keep a flower bed alive through multiple droughts.  My kickass raised box is now a place for "the cat" to take a dump.  Better there than inside.  I hate litter boxes! Oscar does his business outside as well.  They are both ready to go poop and pee around seven so I let them out and go back to bed.  They sleep inside trading bed space and food.  I reckon when it gets really cold I'll have to improvise.

Part of my lifestyle now is making amends when I know that I have hurt someone with my actions or words.  Often I have told tales on this blog that, though I never called names, brought hurtful feelings to others. I apologize for that.  I ain't got a mean bone in my body but I do tend to write about my life.  I suppose I'll have to make it fiction from now on.

Be blessed and get that dressing made!

new tricks for an old dog

My friend came by last night and gave me a demonstration on how to use this putty stuff kind of like play dough on my ostomy appliance to help with leaks.  So far so good!  I have been pain free today.  He also gave me a belt and showed me how to hook the whole thing up.  I don't know many folks who can help with that sort of thing so I was glad for the advice.  He and his wife have been fast friends since around the time of that big ass surgery that changed my life.  She had to talk me out of leaving the nursing home AMA when I was having a "moment."  I hated everything about being there and only lasted 7 days in a room with a patient totally on life support.  There was a cranky old lady on the other side of the bathroom that kept locking it.  That was no problem for anybody but me, a new ostomate with a wound vac.  Lerd.

Once again I have left my phone elsewhere so I hope Sugardaddy doesn't try to call.  Maybe he'll leave a voicemail, ya' think?  I didn't realize it until I got almost home but I wasn't about to drive ten miles back to get it.  I rely on messenger in those cases.  I don't need the alarm because I wake up on my own.  Let's just pray that hatchet man doesn't pick me tonight.

I almost hit a deer the other day as she was crossing Lenox Nauvoo road and the guy behind me was right on my tail when I slammed on the brakes. It's a blessed thing his brakes were in good shape as well.  That would have been both a front AND rear hit to my car.  I can just see me and my passenger squished by airbags.  Neither of us weigh very much!

I'm about to get used to the cold but that doesn't mean I have to like it.  Usually after a deep freeze like this we get a warm spurt which is when I'll hit the pecans hot and heavy.  On my way home from town this morning I visited with Mr. Holmes who has staked his claim.  He's the only one with permission and Bubba patrols the area twice daily.

My quirks are forgetfulness and procrastination, among others.  Part of this is the distraction of running hither and yon and carrying everything in a big ass purse.  If the purse dumps, I'm crawling on the floorboard for the valuables.  Lauren and I have decided to have a hard candy Christmas and give all we've got to Reaves.  Five is a magical age for kids to believe in Santa and the magic of the season.  I have the nativity set laid out already for her to arrange.  It has been relocated to where "the cat" won't go wandering and break all the pieces.  Jesus would probably laugh!

Faith. Hope.Love^j^

waking up slowly

After years of having to wake up and rush to work and childcare and school and all the other things that mothers do, I now have the luxury of not jumping out of bed and hitting the pavement until I go to work later in the day.  My morning routine usually features a lot of internet time to catch up on the world and visit my new favorite blogs by John Tuft and Sean Dietrich.  Both of these fellows touch my heart with their stories of miracles.  Very talented....check them out.  

I just talked with my favorite ostomate and he is bringing me some stuff to try and help with the painful stoma.  He has lived with it much longer than me and knows all the tricks.  At three years post op I'm still a novice.  The decision not to re-connect is firm and based on my chances of a better quality of life.  I just can't take two major surgeries six months apart.  

I have a very special prayer request for a single mother and her adorable child.  Times are hard.  Mama's hours have been cut in half and it takes a minute to find a new job.  Both of them are happy and healthy  but they need a miracle.

The farmers are finishing up out here and I'm glad to go dormant for a bit.  All the flowers are dead and the nuts are falling.  That could be Christmas money!  Peace and love to you.  And also gratitude ^j^  

the good samaritan

I started my week off right with a couple of hours at church.  Our SS teacher Allison finished up her series on daily prayer and I now have a new regimen for morning noon and night.  I usually pray daily when I have a quiet moment that's not taken up with phone, emails and messages.  Overlooking the lake at Paradise is the ideal spot.  We watch the little fairies as they move across the water and every time it's magnificent.  It all depends on the wind and the sun.

To my surprise my good buddy, who is a Republican, congratulated us Dems on the Senate.  There were several high fives and hugs from my stealth liberal friends at church.  I know I know...separation of church and state.  To me it's all about true bi-partisanship.  You know like reaching across the aisle and  for the good of the people who elected you, no matter what party.  This business lately has been a shit show and when I see Trump going down in flames I wonder to myself why it took so long.  

I spent a lot of yesterday cooking.  I was craving RoTel dip so there was that plus a nice pork tenderloin for dinner.  With green peas and lots of leftovers.  I have to be in the mood because that involves intense concentration.  At this moment Rosie the cat is knocking around the wise men surrounding the ancient manger.  I see a big problem here with knocked over holy folks.

Y'all be safe and blessed.  And remember who you were meant to be  ^j^

the price of eggs

You just never know what a day is gonna' bring.  It was almost 80 degrees on Wednesday and snow is in the forecast tonight.  I can hear the wind howling and blowing in that cold front but it's cozy here beside the logs with my critters.  I'm trying to stock up on groceries for the holiday season because I do bake cakes for special people and of course I'm responsible for Thanksgiving.  Hell, I may put up my Christmas tree tomorrow just to see the lights.  The Christmas cakes are a tradition for very special people in my life.  I doubt seriously that one of the recipients knew that my lab took a bite out of it while it was cooling.  I'm also making one for the lasagna supper at church.  I remember very well working that gig when Lauren was one of them.  Lots of work by kids and volunteers for a good cause.

Believe it or not it's supposed to snow about an inch tonight. Y'all know how that goes..might or might not.  It should rain first and then change over as the temp drops.  When I lived up on the hill snow was a beautiful sight out of that big bay window.  And treacherous on that road with ice.  Actually Samaria Bend is usually worse because it's a flat surface.  I have slid past the lane on many an occasion.  Once upon a time I dragged Lauren behind the car on a sheet.  I know...stupid as hell but it was fun and she survived.  Just a good memory.

The clock is ticking until Dr Zarr's Amazing Funkmonster returns to the Dyer County Fairgrounds on November 26. Door opens at 7 and show starts at 8.  Tickets are available at City Liquor for $40 in advance or two for $35 each.  And if you know Bubba, he can hook you up.  I'm looking forward to it because it's a tradition with us.  Sibling bonding time, so to speak.  If there are any seats left on that night, it's fifty bucks at the door.

Tuesday my family has an appointment to view our family's honest to goodness homeplace on College Street.  I'm really excited to see what it looks like now and grateful for the opportunity.  I may just take some pictures of us for posterity.

Y'all stay chill and keep the faith ^j^

social work

I have long been attached to that particular health care field because I'm a "people person" with a strong urge to, not fix, but act as an advocate for someone else.  Kind of sorta' a conduit.  I have always held it in my heart that if you have a giving spirit it increases your serotonin!  Not speaking about money exactly but acts of charity by helping others.  Each of us has a life history that is scarred by pain and troubles.  Holding on to those emotions results in all sorts of health problems.  People with mental illness have an even harder time just trying to be normal and function.  Often this leads to substance abuse and anger issues.  Drugs and anger are bad, umkay?  

The other day I was telling somebody the story of way back in the day when some ER doc tried me to draw blood from a dead guy who had been in a cold wet ditch all night.  As we all know, there was no blood to be gotten from his veins so he went to plan B.  "Draw it from his heart!"  I was like WTF????  You're the doctor here.  And I remember the guy's socks on those cold dead feet.  Needless to say, MD got his own sample and I went back to the call room for a nap.

Here's the thing.  Every day we have a chance to do the next right thing like saying thank you for an opened door or appreciating good service.  I was at the Chick today and was amazed at what a well oiled machine they are.  Great customer service and atmosphere.  The lady next to me in the waiting area for carryout was actually picking up her sick daughter's lunch on her OWN lunch break.  There are no limits to what moms will do for their kids.  

So back to social work.  I became interested in the philosophy of hospice care about 30 years ago and it has remained a passion for me.  My heroes during that learning curve were EK Ross, John Bradshaw and Melody Beattie.  Once I accepted my co-dependent nature it changed my life.  I knew when I was trying to "fix" things and saw them as opportunities to lose a piece of who I am.  Did I continue to do it?  Yes indeed.  It ain't over 'til the fat lady sings.  

I left my career when the whole place was in total chaos and I had just gone through RTC surgery.  The guy told me that the ends of the cuff were torn and atrophied so much that they could not be reconnected.  Soooo...he scraped off the arthritis and here I am five years later. I am thankful that I didn't have the partial shoulder replacement that would have limited mobility and range of motion.  Or the cadaver patch.  Actually the doc told me he had no experience with that procedure.  

My first year or two of retirement involved having a lot of fun and learning things like yoga.  After that, I had to supplement my SS income with something else, thus my home health career.  I'm not talking through an agency.  Just by word of mouth.  I'm a pretty great companion for somebody who doesn't require a lot of intensive care.  There have been one or two who drove me into the ground.  

As we all age, we should remember how nice it is to have a caregiver who forms a relationship that will never be broken, even with death.  Some day we'll all be up there in heaven bumping spirits ^j^

red trickle

How exciting!  All the media were predicting a wave and the whole thing is a tight razor thin count that remains to be seen.  I am encouraged that Trump is paying for his actions for the past two years.  The GOP is shopping for a 2024 candidate and I imagine the Dems too.  I watched my president on TV today fielding questions from all sorts of media types and I think he did well.  According to exit polls, inflation is the number one concern for everybody.  I second that.

Bubba and I did a joint session this morning with our health insurance guy and we came away satisfied with the offer.  We stood outside the Baird Brewer building and gazed across the street at FUMC discussing the future there.  Who knows.  There are plenty of rich people there but the budget is still not met.  Of course everybody waits until the end of the year to finish it out but that may not be enough to keep the boat floating.  I believe that the current membership can figure out a way to maximize what we have by reducing the space that requires maintenance.  Just a thought planted in my head by a fellow member.

Me and Joy navigated our way to my salsa sister's house to purchase some of her famous suncatchers for gifts.  I am a valued customer so I got a discount. I got hooked on those way back when she brought her wares up into the lab in Freda's office.

Y'all be well and thankful ^j^

election night

Y'all can wake me up when it's over next week.  Today has been a pretty dizzy one for me.  Kind of dauncy as the Little General would say.  I'm talking holding onto door frames.   It was unseasonably warm which will change on a dime this weekend.  The sun sets now around five something.  I noticed on Weather Underground that tomorrow will be two minutes shorter.  It just depends on where you are I guess.  I'm in the low country so I can catch a sunset in a heartbeat if I'm here.  Meanwhile, I saw the partially red moon rising and now she is up in the sky all bright and white.  I can see her face! 

I began blogging as a way to journal my life and feelings.  Writing daily has helped me to process what I have lived as the end nears.  My good buddy Chuck called it "embracing your mortality."   As firm believers in a giving and powerful God, we believe that all are welcome, even if broken.  The only difference in the Lord's prayer is trespass and debtors.  FUMC and Dyersburg Cumberland used to do awesome choir concerts.  My Daddy and I did them together.  He was a tenor and me an alto.  We sang together for many years and poor Mom couldn't carry a tune in a bucket.  At the end, neither of them sang at all.  They died peacefully with family by their side when God called them home.  That's a win in my book.

Let's all meditate toward peace and love ^j^

novemblah

My good buddy Paxito coined that term years ago about the month of November.  Second rainiest month of the year and dark early.  It rained all day today and if I were the suicidal type I would have jumped into the lake and drowned myself.  I was up early for a doctor's appointment and kind of told dude I was taking a break from Prolia.  "Why would you do that?" he asked.  The short answer is that I can't afford the twice yearly co-pay on a 5K drug.  I am 25% at risk of a fracture which is where I was two years ago and 1200 dollars poorer.  I'll just have to be really careful and not fall.  Uh, yeah.  I almost fell this morning crossing from one room to another and, instead, whacked my hand on the door frame catching myself.  Surely it's not broken.  Just a small abrasion.

Tomorrow is election day and already the deniers are lining up to sue.  This is a ridiculous waste of time and money.  It is what is is when the votes are counted.  The GOP still cannot accept that Trump lost two years ago and so there you go.  Leading the way for more obstruction of democracy. I have already voted and trust that my ballot counted no matter who wins.  Of particular interest is the Dyersburg mayor's race.  I can't vote on that because I live in the county but....we shall see.  I can tell you that the streets in Dyersburg are deplorable and there is no new industry coming in.  There are a little band of pioneers trying to populate downtown which would be swell.  Our county mayor was a long shot and he won.  Anything is possible.

As for the Senate and House, I pray that there is no huge flip.  Dr Oz is the physician equivalent of Trump and even Oprah has turned against him.  She is the one who "discovered" him, by the way.  In my mind the main issue is sensible gun reform.  Every single day we read about some idiot with a gun shooting up a mall or a birthday party or other places where innocent civilians are going about their business.  Grocery stores.  Schools.  Churches.  This ain't rocket science people.  NOBODY but law enforcement and military should have repeating weaponry in the style of ARs.  They are weapons of mass destruction.  I was about 50 years old when all the school shootings started and every single one of them could have been avoided.  Because I have a five year old granddaughter, Sandy Hook still chills me to the bone.  How does anyone ever get past that kind of horror?

I suppose that we hope and pray that common sense will prevail over the almighty dollar.  After witnessing live what happened on January 6th my faith has withered on the vine.  It seems that the idiots are in charge of my world and that pisses me off big time.  I don't believe in the death penalty to this day.  And I certainly don't believe in privatizing prisons.  I do believe in a woman's right to choose about her reproductive health, heartbeat or not.  I truly cherish the right of a person to die peacefully without hopeless intervention.  

And I pray, a lot ^j^