Handbook for Living 2010

I know, I know... I have been very lazy about posting. But between preparing for the holidays and dealing with a tiny little blizzard, I think I have earned the right to be lazy!

I received this in my email today, and I think it's worth sharing. I am wishing all of my friends and family a wonderful New Year!!!



HANDBOOK 2010

Health:
1. Drink plenty of water.
2. Eat breakfast like a king, lunch like a prince and dinner like a beggar.
3. Eat more foods that grow on trees and plants and eat less food that is manufactured in plants..
4. Live with the 3 E's -- Energy, Enthusiasm and Empathy
5. Make time to pray.
6. Play more games
7. Read more books than you did in 2009 .
8. Sit in silence for at least 10 minutes each day
9. Sleep for 7 hours.
10. Take a 10-30 minutes walk daily. And while you walk, smile..

Personality:
11. Don't compare your life to others. You have no idea what their journey is all about.
12. Don't have negative thoughts or things you cannot control. Instead invest your energy in the positive present moment.
13. Don't over do. Keep your limits.
14. Don't take yourself so seriously. No one else does.
15. Don't waste your precious energy on gossip.
16. Dream more while you are awake
17. Envy is a waste of time. You already have all you need..
18. Forget issues of the past. Don't remind your partner with His/her mistakes of the past. That will ruin your present happiness.
19. Life is too short to waste time hating anyone. Don't hate others.
20. Make peace with your past so it won't spoil the present.
21. No one is in charge of your happiness except you.
22. Realize that life is a school and you are here to learn. Problems are simply part of the curriculum that appear and fade away like algebra class but the lessons you learn will last a lifetime.
23. Smile and laugh more.
24. You don't have to win every argument. Agree to disagree...

Society:
25. Call your family often.
26. Each day give something good to others.
27. Forgive everyone for everything.
28. Spend time w/ people over the age of 70 & under the age of 6.
29. Try to make at least three people smile each day.
30. What other people think of you is none of your business.
31. Your job won't take care of you when you are sick. Your friends will. Stay in touch.

Life:
32. Do the right thing!
33. Get rid of anything that isn't useful, beautiful or joyful..
34. GOD helps everything.
35. However good or bad a situation is, it will change..
36. No matter how you feel, get up, dress up and show up.
37. The best is yet to come..
38. When you awake alive in the morning, thank GOD for it.
39. Your Inner Most is always happy. So, be happy.
40. Send this to everybody you care about... I just did! :-)

A video only a mother could love...!

Many years ago, when Shelby was in preschool, her teachers decided to have the children put on a Nativity play. The play was held at a church nearby due to space problems, but we were still very crowded. You may be able to tell that from the poor quality of the video clip... I was crammed into a back corner and was jostled throughout the filming. Still, as any good stage mother will tell you, a mom simply MUST get a film of her child's acting debut!



I was very proud of my little girl's performance of Mary. I still am not really sure of the message, though: What does it mean when Mary puts her Baby down to clap for Santa Claus? I didn't have anything to do with the script writing, so I'm still wondering...! :-)

Well, anyway, If you choose to watch this video you have been warned about the quality!

Welcome home, Son.

This is our 8th Christmas since Andy died. Yesterday, for the very first time since, I saw real, honest-to-goodness joy about the upcoming holiday from my son John. (He's 15 now, by the way...!)

As a matter of fact, out of all of us John has had the hardest time finding his footing in this dreadful storm. He rarely has exhibited enthusiasm about much of anything, it's more like he has been going through the motions of being a kid for the past 8 years. He never totally crashed and burned, but always verged somewhere between melancholy and sullen. Over the years I tried, Shelby tried, then later Arthur tried to help him, but to no avail. Last night, though, something woke up in him. It was like somebody had lit a fire under him!

It started when we were going through some old ornaments that had been misplaced. Some of them were old family decorations, and his spirit was noticably brighter with each one we took out.

"I remember when Daddy used to always play with these trains. And, wow, Mom! I haven't seen this in years! It was always my favorite. And this one always reminded me of magic... and here is that old styrafoam thing that I always loved..."

Hopefully, this change in John will be a lasting one. I was astonished that he actually started singing a Christmas song as he hung ornaments! Our house has not been decked out so much in years.

Some of the ornaments had belonged to Arthur and his late wife Sue, and John asked questions about them as he hung them up. Arthur is not much for decorating, and had been watching TV in the bedroom oblivious to all the activity in the living room. But when he finally came out to investigate, John did something on his own that brought tears to my eyes.

He said, "Hey Arthur! I saved a couple of Sue's ornaments for you to hang and a spot to hang them."

Yes, we are honestly now a family. A blended family, but real none-the-less.

Peace and blessings to all.

A quick little memory

During the past few weeks we have been totally tied up with school and family obligations. It is ironic how these types of activities awaken wisps of ideas for new posts at the same time I am too busy to sit down and write them out.

However, a memory crossed my mind today that allows me to cheat a little bit. It's the memory of my very favorite Christmas commercial.

This spot ran for several years, and it brought misty eyed tears to me the first couple years that Jimmy had gone away to national guard training and college. Jimmy and Shelby were, at the time, about the same ages as the young people in the commercial.



http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I4kNl7cQdcU

Jimmy did surprise us a couple of times coming home when we were not expecting him, but I don't remember him ever waking us up by making coffee! But still, this little ad is a great reminder of the importance of family.

Shelby is now the child in college, and we look forward to her arrival home in a couple of days. Hey Shelby... make us some coffee when you get here, ok? :-)

A Special Letter from my Email

Although there are things I enjoy sharing from my email, I generally don't post items that are purely religious in nature. If you know me personally, you know that I am deeply, but quietly devout. I hope to be an example, rather than beat people over the head with my faith.

However, I received this in my email the other day, and I can't get it out of my mind. It is very different than many "Jesus" emails I receive. I'm not sure why... except I notice that the message is one of personal accountability in religion. I like the message, so I am going to share it.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~

An example of a letter that Jesus might send to his followers in these days of turmoil:

"To my Beloved Ones,

It has come to my attention that many of you are upset that folks are taking my name out of the season.

How I personally feel about this celebration can probably be most easily understood by those of you who have been blessed with children of your own. I personally don't care what you call the day. If you want to celebrate My birth, just GET ALONG AND LOVE ONE ANOTHER.

Now, having said that let me go on. If it bothers you that the town in which you live doesn't allow a scene depicting my birth, then just get rid of a couple of Santas and snowmen and put in a small Nativity scene on your own front lawn. If all my followers did that there wouldn't be any need for such a scene on the town square because there would be many of them all around town.

Stop worrying about the fact that people are calling the tree a 'holiday tree', instead of a Christmas tree. It was I who made all trees. You can remember me anytime you see any tree. Decorate a grape vine if you wish! I actually spoke of that one in a teaching, explaining who I am in relation to you and what each of our tasks were. If you have forgotten that one, look up John 15: 1 - 8.

If you want to give me a present in remembrance of my birth here is my wish list. Choose something from it:


1. Instead of writing protest letters objecting to the way my birthday is being celebrated, write letters of love and hope to soldiers away from home. They are terribly afraid and lonely this time of year. I know, they tell me all the time.

2. Visit someone in a nursing home. You don't have to know them personally. They just need to know that someone cares about them.

3. Instead of writing the President complaining about the wording on the cards his staff sent out this year, why don't you write and tell him that you'll be praying for him and his family this year. Then follow up... It will be nice hearing from you again.

4. Instead of giving your children a lot of gifts you can't afford and they don't need, spend time with them. Tell them the story of my birth, and why I came to live with you down here. Hold them in your arms and remind them that I love them.

5. Pick someone that has hurt you in the past and forgive him or her.

6. Did you know that someone in your town will attempt to take their own life this season because they feel so alone and hopeless? Since you don't know who that person is, try giving everyone you meet a warm smile; it could make the difference.

7. Instead of nit picking about what the retailer in your town calls the holiday, be patient with the people who work there. Give them a warm smile and a kind word. Even if they aren't allowed to wish you a "Merry Christmas" that doesn't keep you from wishing them one. Then stop shopping on Sunday. If the stores didn't make so much money on that day they'd close and let their employees spend the day at home with their families.

8. If you really want to make a difference, support a missionary-- especially one who takes My love and Good News to those who have never heard My name.

9. Here's a good one. There are individuals and whole families in your town who not only will have no "Christmas" tree, but neither will they have any presents to give or receive. If you don't know them, buy some food and a few gifts and give them to the Salvation Army or some other charity which believes in me and they will make the delivery for you.

10. Finally, if you want to make a statement about your belief in and loyalty to Me, then behave like a Christian. Don't do things in secret that you wouldn't do in my presence. Let people know by your actions that you are one of mine.

Don't forget; I am God and can take care of Myself. Just love Me and do what I have told you to do. I'll take care of all the rest. Check out the list above and get to work; time is short.

I'll help you, but the ball is now in your court. And do have a most blessed Christmas with all those whom you love, and remember:

I LOVE YOU,

JESUS"

Welcome Baby Alicen!

I have not been as diligent about posting on my blog as I should be, and for that I apologize. These past couple of weeks have been crazy!

However, I need to slow down long enough to congratulate Terry, and Kathy and family on the birth of his first grandchild, Alicen!


Kendy and Lance, she is absolutely beautiful, and we hope to see her at Thanksgiving. Thank Heaven for Little Girls! :-)

People that I love who have served our country

(In order of age)

Added Nov. 10, 2013: My son-in-law Alex is currently serving in the Oklahoma Air National Guard.

James Robert (Jimmy): Oklahoma National Guard, 1990s-2000s



Clarence Andrew II: US Navy, 1990s-2000s


Family friend Terry D, currently serving in the Oklahoma National Guard.



Family friends Pat and Rosemarie C: Rosemarie retired from the Oklahoma Air Guard after serving 20 years. Pat thought he retired from the US Army Reserves after 20 years, but has decided to return. He reports for duty in January.


Clarence Andrew: US Army, Vietnam


Papa Cactus Roy: US Marines WWII


My inlaws Frank and Irene W: both served in the US Army during WWII



Posted with my love, thanks and pride for them, and all who have served.

Edited to add:

This item was simultaneously posted on Facebook, and two people added their own family members who also served. I will add those names here, and invite anybody who reads this post to add their own.

Jeff wrote: Please add my son, Robert, 6 years, US Navy

Carmen wrote: Added my father in law, my daughter, son in law...

Once Upon a Halloween, 1997

In the spirit of Halloween, here is a trip down memory lane back to 1997. Shelby and Angela were seven years old, John and Beverly were four, and Victoria was two.



Video Link

Weren't they all so cute back then? I love the kids so much now that they are almost grown, but those younger days sure were a lot of fun. :)

Judge Not.... (from my email)

I was shocked, confused, bewildered

As I entered Heaven's door,

Not by the beauty of it all,

Nor the lights or its decor.


But it was the folks in Heaven

Who made me sputter and gasp-

The thieves, the liars, the sinners,

The alcoholics and the trash.


There stood the kid from seventh grade

Who swiped my lunch money twice..

Next to him was my old neighbor

Who never said anything nice.


Herb, who I always thought

Was rotting away in hell,

Was sitting pretty on cloud nine,

Looking incredibly well.


I nudged Jesus, 'What's the deal?

I would love to hear Your take.

How'd all these sinners get up here?

God must've made a mistake.


'And why's everyone so quiet,

So somber - give me a clue.'

'Hush, child,' He said, 'they're all in shock..

No one thought they'd be seeing you.'



Anonymous

Poor Grosse Pointe

I thought I would share a tongue and cheek video of how the economy is affecting an affluent community. (My apologies to Grosse Pointe. I found this on the Freep!)

Poor Grosse Pointe - watch more funny videos

Poor Grosse Pointe

A concession stand story

Maybe it made a difference, maybe it didn't. But I want to think that it did.

Thursday night, when I was working in the concession stand for the varsity game, a young man who was a member of the football team came to the window.

He grinned at me and said, "Hey! You have any free hot dogs that you can spare?"

"Nice try, but no." I replied. "I have some good two dollar ones, though!"

"Aw, darn." He smiled and turned away from the window.

It wasn't but a few minutes, he was back. "Are you sure you don't have a free hot dog you can spare?"

I began to wonder if he was a friendly con man, or was he really that hungry? Then, as I smiled and shook my head in the negative, one of his friends came up and slapped him on the back.

"Hey, man, why aren't you playing?"

"Man, I didn't pass that vocab test, and Coach said I was ineligible to play today."

They talked together for a minute, then started walking away. I don't know what possessed me, but right then I called the young football player back to the window.

"Hey. Did I hear you say you are ineligible to play?"

He looked down for a second. "Yeah, I am."

I spoke to him with partially mock severity, and handed him a hot dog. "OK, listen to me. I'm going to buy you this hot dog, but you have to promise me that next week you will come back and tell me that you have brought your grades back up to passing."

He laughed, and said, "Hey, thanks! I sure will!"

I figured I was quite the sucker, but I didn't dwell on it too much. It is not common for any of the kids to ask for food more than once, so maybe he was really hungry. Or whatever. I put it out of my mind.

Well, guess what! Today I was cleaning the concession after the 9th grade game, and my football player came to the door.

He smiled a bit sheepishly, then said to me, "I came by to tell you that I am eligible to play now."

You could have knocked me over with the proverbial feather. The day I gave him the hot dog, that was exactly what I wanted to happen, but I did not expect to ever see him again. He not only brought his grade back up, but made the effort to let me know about it! The biggest reward for me was the big smile that flashed on his face when I stood up and applauded him.

Did one hot dog make a difference? Maybe not, but I guess I will never know for sure. The Pollyanna in me wants to think that it did.

A School Nurse's Adventures with Swine Flu

.... and this is no hoax. :)


Saturday:

I woke up with scratchy throat and stuffy nose.

"It must be a cold or sinus," I told my family. "Otherwise, I would have a fever."

I developed a headache by late morning, but took some sinus medication and felt better during the afternoon.

"See, I told you it wasn’t any big deal."

But then.... suddenly, around 6:00 PM or so, I was hit with chills, sneezing, and body aches.

"I sss-still think it’s a-a-a little cold..." I insisted through my chattering teeth.

My "little cold" had a pretty decent fever of 100.8. But, I like to live in denial. It's a pleasant place to live...! It wasn’t until late that evening I finally admitted to myself that I most likely had the flu.

~~~~~~~~~~

Sunday:

I had to miss Church and Choir. They wouldn’t have wanted me, anyway, because I sounded like Kermit the Frog with laryngitis. In actuality, I was beginning to think this flu stuff wasn’t too bad. I still had a fever that was hanging around 101, couldn’t talk, but felt well enough to surf the 'net on my laptop while resting in bed. Pretty nice way to be sick!

~~~~~~~~~~

Monday:

Where am I? Who am I? I can’t get up! Did somebody break in and beat me up last night? I am hurting all over! Even the ends of my hair hurt, if you can believe that. What do you mean I have a fever of 103.4? That’s a radio station, not my temperature! No, I can’t drink anything, I feel like I’m going to be sick at my stomach. OK, ok, take me to the doctor. Please. (Did I say please?) I have a blur of a memory of the doctor swabbing my throat for strep, (negative) followed by a nasal swab (positive for influenza type A.)

"I already had my seasonal flu shot, Doc!"

"You almost certainly have H1N1 influenza. That is the 'Type A' strain that is going around at this time."

The doctor hit me with his best shot. A little Phenergan de Gluteus fixed my nausea, and I was sent out with prescriptions for hydrocodone cough syrup, asthma inhaler, oral Phenergan, and Tamiflu... a wonder drug... no lie! Arthur was instructed to be the driver. (Surely they didn’t think I drove there to begin with??)

I took my first Tamiflu and a dose of cough medicine as soon as I got home. I guess I went to bed after that, because that’s where I woke up the next morning.

~~~~~~~~~~

Tuesday:

I woke up feeling almost human. But, wait! John was outside my door crying. Literally.

"Mom! I have a percussion contest today."

"Ok, what time is your contest? And why are you crying?"

"Because I’m sick, and can barely move. I started feeling bad last night, but thought I could make it through the contest."

I felt his forehead, and even though I myself was still feverish, he was sizzling. I found our spare thermometer, and within a minute realized he wasn’t going to any contest, or even school that day. His fever was 102.

Once we had John medicated and tucked in bed with tissues, Gatorade, his phone, and remote within reach, I went back to bed. My afternoon temp= 100 degrees.

~~~~~~~~~~

Wednesday:

Much the same. John still sick, sleeping like a petrified log. His temp=103.5. Arthur and I rouse him every couple hours for medicine, to drink, eat, and change out of saturated t-shirts. My own afternoon temp= 100 degrees.

~~~~~~~~~~

Thursday:

Much the same. John still sick. My afternoon temp= 100 degrees.

~~~~~~~~~~

Friday:

Not here yet. But watch the CBS Evening News on Friday! My supervisor with Oklahoma City Public Schools, Debbie Johnson, is going to be interviewed about the H1N1 flu and the community immunization clinics our school nurses will be participating in.

John is 15!

I'm sorry, I promised photos, but inconveniently have come down with the flu. I'm feeling well enough to post one photo of my wonderful 15 year old son with his sister taken yesterday.



Where have those years gone?



Dear John, I hope your birthday was wonderful! I a very proud of you.

Love,
Mom

Shelby is coming home tonight! :)

...That should be as entertaining as always!


It's John's birthday weekend, and by the time this posts she will have already surprised him. Photos tomorrow. :-)

Beware of H1N1 Hoax

There is a hoax email making the rounds about the H1N1 vaccination. At first glance, it appears legitimate, but after a bit of research it turns out to be a hoax.

I am in no way telling everybody that they should (or should not) go right out and get an H1N1 vaccination when it is available. That is between each individual and their physician. But nothing riles me more than hoaxes and urban legends that spread whatever propaganda the original author intends to promote.

The email starts like this:

"My sister just called, for those of you that don’t know she is a RN in the ER at Baptist. They had a meeting this morning on the H1N1 vaccination, and the doctors at Baptist are advising that their staff and patients NOT get this vaccination."

It goes on to make a claim that a child of the hospital employee received the H1N1 vaccination, and now has Guillian Barre Syndrome. As evidence, it gives a website that at further review, is a neuro medical site with information about the symptoms of Guillian Barre. There is nothing on this site about the current H1N1 vaccine.

If this were the truth the physicians at whichever "Baptist" medical facility (there are a zillion of them in the U.S.) would be alerting more than just their staff in some secret meeting.

Here is what I found on Google. It looks like a lot of people have already received this email. But, notice: Sometimes the sister has no name, sometimes her name is Kim, sometimes her name is Kay:

Search Results Swine Flu Email

When in doubt about anything regarding your health, please talk with your physician. Get a second opinion if you are still in doubt. But don't get your "second opinion" from a chain email... or even from a blog like mine! :-) See a health professional.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

P.S. If you are interested, here is my post about the swine flu from back in April, before they developed the soon-to-be released vaccine.


P.P.S. As of 10-5-09, but symptoms beginning 10-3-09, I myself have been diagnosed as having the h1n1 flu. Let me describe my symptoms:

1. Haven't felt like eating anything for 3 days.
2. My body feels like it has been pounded with three large bricks.
3. My head feels like it is being shot out of a cannon.
4. My fever has hovered between 102 and 103.5.
5. My throat is on fire.
6. I need help to walk to the rest room.
7. I have alternated between freezing in Antarctica and roasting in Hades.

I went to the doctor yesterday and tested positive, so I am now taking Tamiflu. I noticed a big difference within hours of starting it, but have a long way to go. This flu is real, folks, and it is awful.

Friday night Dancing

I have made it no secret that I love square dancing, and that is where I met Arthur when I was sixteen years old. But I would like to tell the story of how it all began.

Once upon a time, in a land far, far away, a square dance hall was created.


The place was a dancer's dream. Huge oak beams supported a magical building that was large enough to hold 18 squares of dancers. Generations of families would drive from miles around for a day or evening of dosados and allemandes on the huge, shiny floating wood floor.

The hall became the host of many different square dance and round dance clubs from the region, and many posted their club signs along the walls. From daybreak to bedtime one could always find something going on there, no matter what time or day of the week. There were senior clubs on weekdays. Young adult clubs on weeknights. Teen clubs on Sunday afternoons. Each club had it's own unique personality, along with it's own enthusiastic caller.

This wonderful place in Livonia, Michigan was named "Modern Squares," often lovingly referred to as "The Barn."

Sadly, sometime in the late 1970's, the Barn burned to the ground, and was never rebuilt. The different clubs scattered to separate locations, and much of the magic was lost.

But it was at The Barn, as a teen I first learned to square dance. Looking back 35 years later, dancing with the Teen Wheelers remains one of the favorite things I have done in my life.



Ah... what great memories!



But what ever possessed me to start square dancing in the first place?

My best friend started dancing at the "suggestion" of her parents. Actually, the suggestion was more to the point of a threat of dish duty for the following million or so years if she didn't. So, Kathy ended up accepting the offer she couldn't refuse... and ended up LOVING it!

So, as a best friend will, she told me all about her wonderful new discovery.


"Stephanie! You have to go square dancing with me next Sunday! It's a blast!"


"Um... SQUARE DANCING??? No WAY! That's for SQUARES!"

"You don't know what you're talking about! It's so much fun. And... wait 'till you see all the cute GUYS that are there!"

As it turned out, I had nothing else to do the following Sunday afternoon. Plus the enticement of the availability of "cute guys" was enough to convince sixteen-year-old me to give it a try.

So, on a cool day in September, I reluctantly joined Kathy at the Barn on Seven Mile. Or, rather, she dragged me there!


Here are a few treasured photos from my early days of square dancing.























Well, that was then.

This is now! Arthur and I returned to square dancing two years ago. We dance with a club called "The Swinging Rebels." Once again we have a dance to prepare for every couple of weeks. It takes me back to my teen years, getting all dressed up with the anticipation of having a great time! (and I'm embarrassed to admit... I love an excuse to wear a petticoat and frills.)

These photos were taken at the recent Central District festival.



I was the lucky winner of this horse from a prize drawing! :)












Here is a 30 second clip for Film Clip Friday:




I have no doubt that I will continue to square dance until they carry me out of the hall!

I Miss My MTV!

Right after I moved to Oklahoma in early 1982, I signed up for cable TV for the first time in my life. The week we settled in to our new home happened to be the week of MTV's first birthday.

I loved nothing better than to come home after a long day of work and chill for hours with Jimmy on my lap, in front of the special effect music videos of the time. Now, this was back when they actually had music on MTV, and no commercials. Remember, MTV was short for "Music Television!"

Here is a small sample of what they were playing then. Such fun memories from when I was in my 20's!

I miss my MTV. I WANT MY MTV BACK!!!!!!!! Waaah!


The Steve Miller Band




The DOG POLICE




The Clash (Sorry, this one comes with commercials, but I simply couldn't leave it out...!)

- -

And, of course... DIRE STAITS!!! They want their MTV, too.

State Fair '09

Gentle musing

Another birthday without you here. Happy Birthday AB, wherever your spirit rests today. I love you.

"Our Song"


( unable to find a decent video. Ignore the ads.)

Band Royalty beats up her Brother

(Not really, but almost!)

Here is a short trip back to last fall, when my beautiful, lady-like daughter was a member of the Band Queen court. Brother was pestering her, and she put a stop to it. :)

I'd almost forgotten about John's long hair stage.

Save our children from....?

I never, in my life of freedom in America, expected to sign a permission slip in order to allow my child the right to see the President of the United States speak on television.

As a matter of fact, when I was a school kid, if the President made a television appearance, it was a Very Big Deal. The whole school would be sent to the gym or auditorium in order to strain our eyes to see the industrial black and white televisions bringing us a moment in history. Even if our parents didn't agree with that particular President, it opened dialog so we better understood the way our government worked, and what important issues our parents supported.

To me, there is something very disturbing for controvery to occur over our children watching an address given by the man elected to the highest office in our nation.

Dog Days

Thirty seconds of memories for Film clip Friday. This is me as a kid with two of my favorite companions.

I still miss these pups. They were my buddies.

A tiny dash of serendipity

Sometimes it just takes a little thing to make my day, and one of those little things happened this afternoon.

I was busy at work, buried under the usual mountain of back-to-school shot records and paperwork that I deal with every year. Suddenly, the door to my clinic burst open, and there stood a harried looking gentleman from our downtown IT department.

He said, "Here is the computer power source you ordered."

"Um, I didn't order one." I said, while remembering that was something on my to-do list.

"The order says it's for the clinic at this school."

He came over and inspected my laptop.

"Nope, the serial numbers don't match the order. Must not be yours!"

I pushed my papers aside, glad to have a good reason to leave my desk. I directed him to the office, and the secretary checked with the rest of the staff to see if they had ordered a cord. All the responses were negative.

"Well, I guess I need to take this back downtown to see if they can figure out where it really goes."

It was then that I asked, "How do I order a new cord? I thought I needed to bring my computer in to you, and I have been too busy. My cord has something wrong with it and won't work half the time."

He asked my name, handed me the cord and said, "It's yours! I'll just get another one for the other person. This saves me a trip."

It really was no big deal, but it made me smile!

Happy Spam from my Email

God has seen you struggling, God says your struggle is over.
A blessing is coming your way.



I AM GIVING YOU 600 MILLION ANGELS TO TAKE CARE OF YOU,
SEND THEM TO 10 FRIENDS, INCLUDING ME
AND YOU WILL HAVE GOOD NEWS IN 10 MINUTES.

(Is that enough? I can send more if you need me to! lol)

For all the teachers, students, and other interested parties

This is a film of a student performance that was put on for our entertainment and reflection on our first day back to work. It is something that can be enjoyed by everybody, but I know the many teachers I have as friends will find this particularly interesting. I loved it, so I'm going to share it with all of you.

Introducing some very special students in the Oklahoma City School District! (This is an embeddable clip from the school's main website.)

Cinnamon is one of the oldest spices known to man

... and also in my household.

John pulled the cinnamon out of the cupboard yesterday, and idly turned it over in his hands before using some on his applesauce.

"Does cinnamon ever go bad, Mom?"

"Good question, John. Why do you ask?"

"Well, we have had this same container for practically my whole life."

I immediately snatched it from him to inspect it. Oh no! Exactly when did I buy that cinnamon?

The more I thought about it, the more horrified I became. I couldn't pinpoint exactly when the spice came into the house, but it dawned on me that I had used that exact same cinnamon to make apple pies when Andy was alive!!! (as in over 8 years ago.)

John didn't get sick yesterday, so I guess it wasn't too poisonous. But still, ewwww!

Guess I'll call my mother tomorrow and ask, "Does cinnamon ever go bad, Mom?"

Shelby's friend was arrested

There is nothing that makes me feel so old as seeing Shelby's friends become young adults with minds of their own. Now that they are old enough to do so, they are beginning to express themselves in new ways that they were unable to when living at home.

Back in elementary and middle school, two of Shelby's best friends were twin sisters named Candice and Cassidy. They were tiny, effervescent girls, always happy and full of life. For several years one or the other was always with Shelby, most particularly Cassidy. I can still close my eyes and picture the little twins skipping and bouncing along on either side of the much taller Shelby.

During high school, little by little, they spent less time together until it dwindled down to none. That saddened me a bit, but I realized that friends often grow apart as they mature. However, both the girls have remained special in my memory.

Here in the present day, several of Shelby's friends are college students. One of her friends is getting married soon. Another friend is in culinary school.

Cassidy is a political activist in New Hampshire:

http://freekeene.com/2009/08/23/raw-video-topless-equality-activist-arrested/

I'm not sure how I feel about that video. I know I would never want Shelby to do anything like that. And yet, I feel a stir of admiration for this young woman that I knew as a little girl. She is standing up for something she believes in, and I think she has a point.

What do you think?

Sorry for my lapse in blogging!

Too busy, not very creative. That's my story and I'm stickin' to it!



I don't even have my own video this week! Talk about lazy. :-) However, I have been meaning to post this for awhile. The rock group in this video had moderate success in the 70's, and I rubbed elbows with greatness because the drummer was a friend of mine from high school.

I promise, bright and early Monday morning I will have a REAL post with current events!

Sharing a moment in time...

August 14th, 1987




Happy anniversary, A.B. I still remember.

Jimmy on Television (a loooong time ago.)

All this talk about sororities, Shelby going away to college, etc. is starting to make me feel sad. So for this weeks film clip I thought I would travel back in time again to when my kids were all still kids. (Actually, John wasn't even born yet when this film was made!) This is a clip from Jimmy's middle school days when he appeared on television with the school jazz band.

The morning news show was hosted by Butch and Ben McCain. It was more of a news-variety show. The McCain brothers are singers and performers themselves.



An interesting note about this film: I have had it on YouTube since February. I mainly posted it so Jimmy could see it again. Well, just this past week several of his former band mates stumbled on the film. Their thread on facebook (about 60 posts long so far) makes me smile! I remember all those kids fondly. High school band is like a big family! :)

What's the Rush?

Shelby came to me one day earlier this summer and said she needed to discuss something important.

"Sure, we can talk! What's up?"

"Mom, I have decided to rush."

"Um... OK. What's the hurry?"

"No, Momma! I mean I want to rush! I want to attend rush week at the university!"

Still not quite understanding I replied, "Well, sure, I guess. But, what exactly is rush week?"

"It's what you go to if you are thinking of joining a sorority."

Aha! The light bulb went on! Although I have a bachelors degree from a four year university, I was a non-traditional student. I have never lived on campus, and I know absolutely nothing about sorority life.

"Well, I guess that will be fine. I don't know much about them."

That was an understatement. The whole issue made me feel a little intimidated, and even a bit sad. For the first time ever I would have no input into an important part of my daughter's life. I have been Shelby's "go to" person for advice since she was old enough to ask questions!

When I dropped her off for rush week this past Monday all I could say was, "Have fun, be yourself, and you will do fine."

I won't see her until this Saturday, which is the day she decides whether she wants to pledge, and which sorority she will be joining if she does. She has very limited phone time this week. In fact, the directors of this shindig actually take the girls phones from them except for a couple hours at the end of the day. (Can you imagine if we parents ever tried to do that???)

She received her phone long enough tonight for an excited phone call to me saying that she had been rushed by several chapters that she really liked. She gets to drop those that she doesn't feel is a good fit, and vice versa each day until she receives her bid.

Shelby's call sort of made my head swim, though.

It went something like this: "The first house I visited was Tri-Delt, or Delta Delta Delta. then I went to Chi-Omega and I like all the girls at both of them so far. Pi Beta Phi, and Zeta Tau Alpha, and Phelta Melta Welta, and Gamma Whamma, and Mu Shu Tae, and...."

Hey! It's all Greek to Me!
(groan!)

Father Frank

This post has been a bit late in coming, because it has been difficult for me to find the words to express my feelings about the loss of my father in law. What I have come up with is just a shell of what Dad meant to so many. We have been related for a mere 5 years, but he greatly impacted my life during that time. In our lives there are a few special people that make a lasting impression. My father in law was one of these people.


Actually, he and I go way back, thanks to Arthur. I knew he was special from the first day Arthur introduced us over thirty years ago. The preciseness of his thought and action reflected his military experience, but he used that characteristic to enrich his family. There was never a single birthday or anniversary forgotten, thanks to him. When Arthur and I married, he instantly accepted us all as true family. There was no "step" in his vocabulary.


It was a known fact that my father-in-law was well respected in his church community, but I was not aware how well until the day of his services. The mass was presided by three priests and a bishop. The priests spoke of his devotion, and Father Julian told a humorous story about how the parishioners would ask to speak to "Father Frank," because he helped out at the church so often that many thought he was an associate priest. Bishop Reese assisted with the mass in spite of his own personal illness.

The mass was beautiful, a truly special celebration of a beautiful life. The music has stayed with me for over a week now, especially the hauntingly beautiful "Shepherd Me oh God."

Processional:
Serdeczna Matko (traditional Polish hymn)

Placing of the Pall- Children Allen, Arthur, Paula, and Lorin

Kyrie

Gloria:
From Mass of Creation

Book of Wisdom 3:1 - reading by daughter Paula

Psalm Response:
Shepherd me Oh God

1 Corinthians 15:51- reading by son Arthur

Gospel Acclamation

Holy Gospel of the Lord

Funeral Homily- Father Stan

Presentation of the gifts: Son Lorin, Daughter in law Sue, Granddaughter Raquel, Great Grandson Patrick, Grandaughter Stacia
Amazing Grace

Consecration of the Bread and Wine

Creed and Intercessions

Eucharistic Prayer

Communion Rite

Communion song:
Here I am Lord

Eulogy- presented by son Allen

Final reflection: Prayer of St. Francis- reading by granddaughter Stacia

Recessional:
Sing with all the Saints

The day was rainy, but as Allen spoke of his father, a sunbeam came through a stained glass window and shone upon the paper he was reading from. Later, as we exited the church at the completion of the service a white dove flew over our heads.

Surely this man is in Paradise today.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~

"My father was never a man of wealth, but he was rich in the love and respect of his family, his friends, and all that knew him."- Allen W.

Pall Bearers- Grandaughter Stacia, Grandsons Matthew, Dominic and David, Great Grandaughter Emily, Grandson in law Stephen, and Friend Bob.

Age 86, July 21, 2009. Beloved husband for 62 years of Irene C. Dearest father of Allen F., Arthur F. (Stephanie), Paula K., Lorin (Susanne) and the late Kenneth. Dear father-in-law of the late Suzanne. Loving grandfather of Raquel, David, Dominic, Matthew, Gregory, Daniel, Stacia and Jared. Great-grandfather of Emily, Patrick, Hailey, Shelby, John Henry, and Alexis. Dear brother of Mary Ann, Rosalie Wila, the late Bernard and Carl. Frank was a lector and eucharistic minister at SS. Peter and Paul Church. Affectionately referred to as "Father Frank" because of his devout dedication to parish activities for over 50 years. Visitation at the Jarzembowski Funeral Home, 18957 W. Warren at Artesian, Thursday 5-9 p.m., Friday 12-9 p.m., Parish Rosary Friday 7 p.m. In state Saturday 9 a.m. SS. Peter and Paul Church until Mass of Resurrection 10 a.m. Interment St. Hedwig Cemetery.

Where do the Children Play

Many of you may know that I have been out of town to attend my father-in-law's funeral. I will write a little bit about that after I have some time to rest and ponder. But for now, here is a meme I found on Facebook that I thought I would post so I can get this blog rolling again.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

The Challenge: Using only song names from ONE ARTIST, cleverly answer these questions. Try not to repeat a song title. It's harder than you think.

Your Artist: Cat Stevens

Are you male or female: "Lady D'Arbanville"

Describe yourself: "Oh Very Young" (not!)

How do you feel about yourself: "Baby get your Head Screwed On"

Describe where you currently live: "Portobello Road"

The first thing you think of when you wake up: "Morning Has Broken"

If you could go anywhere, where would you go: "On the Road to Find Out"

Your favorite form of transportation: "Peace Train"

What is the weather like where you are at: "The Wind"

Your best friend is: "Sad Lisa"

Your favorite color is: "Bitter Blue"

If your life were a TV show, what would it be called: "Wild World"

What is life to you: "I Think I see the Light"

What is the best advice you have to give: "Don't be Shy"

If you could change your name, what would it be: "Sweet Scarlet"

Your favorite food is: "The Laughing Apple"

How I would like to die: "Sitting"

My soul's present condition: "Lilywhite"

What are you going to post this as: "Where do the Children Play"

Airing out the toilet

In a couple of my previous entries, I have mentioned my ex-husband, Steve. I have not shared a lot about that marriage and subsequent divorce, mainly because I don't think it's proper to air one's dirty laundry in public. Suffice to say that we were much too young and immature to marry when we did, and although a painful chapter in our lives, it was best that we split up. One great thing to come from our marriage is our son, Jimmy. We have a civil relationship nowadays, because we not only share a son, but also a set of grand-twins. Other good things that came of the marriage are some funny family stories. I'm going to share one of those stories, not about airing dirty laundry, but rather, about airing out toilets.




One day during the first year we were married, my parents invited Steve and I over for a cookout. It was a beautiful summer day and we were in a cheerful mood, looking forward to some good steaks and playing cards.

As we went into the back yard, Steve noticed that one of the toilets from the house was sitting under the birch tree.

"What is the toilet doing out in the yard?" he asked.

I had absolutely no idea why it was there, although I later learned that my dad removed it so he could snake out a foreign object that somehow had been flushed. At the moment, I was as clueless as Steve. However, I was thinking quickly as a flash of deviltry hit me.

"Well, it's out there because my parents are airing it out."

He gave me a blank look. "They're doing WHAT?"

"They're airing out the toilet," I repeated. "Is that so strange?"

Eyeing me suspiciously, he stammered, "Wha... huh...?

"Now, wait a minute Steve. Don't tell me you have never heard of airing out toilets. Every proper housekeeper does it at least once a year for sanitary reasons."

I was on a roll now, so I continued, "I can't believe that your mother, of all people, doesn't air out her toilets regularly!"

To understand the impact of that statement, you need to know a bit about Steve's mother. Not only is she a fastidious housekeeper, she is an obsessed housekeeper! If there are truly any floors that can be eaten off of, hers would be the ones.

With that last comment, I went into the house and left Steve alone to smoke his cigarettes and ponder the situation. Wicked, wicked me, I held out until I reached the hallway of the house, and then fell out laughing, and laughed until the tears were running down my face. Naturally, my parents came to investigate what was going on. I could barely spit out the story, but finally composed myself long enough to tell them about my earlier conversation.

About the time I finished the tale and we all quit laughing, it was time for my dad to start the grill. So, we went back outside to the yard.

A few minutes later, I almost needed to use that toilet in the yard because my mother, obviously spawn of the same devil seed as I, casually remarked to my dad, "Do you think the toilet has aired out long enough?"

My father's good-natured reply was, "I think so. I was planning on bringing in in after supper."

Steve still wasn't convinced that I was telling the truth but, likewise, he wasn't convinced I was lying, either!

Over the next few years, the toilet airing conversation would come up occasionally. Gradually, most of our friends and family heard about it, and one person or another would mention around Steve that they needed to get around to airing out their toilet soon. He was always pretty sure he was receiving a massive leg pulling, but not quite confident enough to call us out on it, lest he end up appearing too ignorant to understand proper sanitation.

That was many years ago, we have been divorced for over 25 years, but it is a favorite family legend.

Oh, pssst... Steve, if you're reading this; it's time to air out the toilet!