Gagglespeak

2012-01-30T11:58:00.000-05:00

Hello, we have had a busy week here in the Valley. Stephen King is feeling good, almost normal this week. His Texas sister has been here visiting and we have had lots of lunches out with all 5 sisters. It has been a pleasant change to our usual routine. Visit with nurse practioner this week was good. She answered his questions and prescribed something to help with sleep. He has been responding well to them, no groggy mornings! We have the 5th treatment this Wednesday, so he has a couple more days of feeling good. The side effects of these powerful chemicals are almost immediate. His voice changes within 3 hours of the start, the weakness begins that evening, legs and arms start to hurt the next day and day 3 brings stomach issues. Like clockwork, they come, we treat before hand to minimize their strength, but he still suffers, especially with the diabilitating weakness. The pain subsides to tolerable levels, the stomach settles down, but the weakness continues until week 3 and he remains breatheless always. But we are learning to deal, learning to anticipate, learning to prepare. Ater this treatment he will have another CT scan to see if there is change in the tumors. The last scan failed to determine any. Hopefully there will be obvious positive changes, shrinkage or disappearance of the lung tumor, healing of the tumors in the bones and a healthy spleen. Please, keep praying and sending up positive requests for him. We live daily with that as our guiding thought, "We will beat this!" I truly believe negativity begats negativity, not only emotionally but physically. Call me PollyAnna :-)
Things are speeding up for our Mackenzie this week. She finally met with her transplant surgeon, who wants her lungs in tiptop shape for the procedure. This means cutting back on the immune supressant (chemo) and the blood booster (epogen) injections. One was canceling the effect of the other and not allowing the bone marrow to produce healthy red cells, without which the oxygen cannot feed the lungs. What a complicated, wonderous thing is the human body. Homeostasis, if I remember my Anatomy class, must be maintained for true productive function. Balance, not only in our lives, but inside our very core, creates a healthy existence. The wonder of it strikes me as the ultimate proof of our living God. What else can explain the microscopic detail, the precise symbiosis, the miracle of a human body? There is Love woven into our flesh and blood at the cellular level. Love from God.
We hope to use February as a healing, resting time for Stephen King. If the chemo is working well, he will have one more treatment. If not, we will discuss our options. If our mild winter continues, this short, dark month should fly by. I'm hoping for a few good snow days myself, so winter seems real. We appear to be stuck in some gloomy, gray, wet world this month, with a sunny day once in a long while teasing us with its bright cheer. I have never suffered from SAD, but am realizing why some people do fight this each year. Living in a fog without the sun is stressful. I actually thought someone was shining a spotlight in my eyes this morning when I awoke. My light-starved brain could not compute the light filled room! Surprised, I actually laughed out loud when I came to my senses.
Stephen King is out and about today, with son, Stephen and friend, Don. They are attending an 18th century Trade Fair. These guys were born too late! They love everything Early American, they shoot muzzle loader firearms, cook over open fires, blacksmith and sit around the fire telling tall tales. Steve hasn't been up to going for awhile but with Stephen driving and a good chair to rest in, he should enjoy his day. I am so happy this was scheduled this weekend instead of next. I intend to quilt awhile today. I finished one of the four quilts awaiting finishing touches. Kristina seemed pleased with Abby's 30s style patchwork wth its bright red binding. I have a few borders to sew onto Whitt's cowboy quilt before it is ready for quilting. I will get that today, FOR SURE! I hope :-) Bonner and Joe, our nephew, are expecting another baby in August, so I just must finish the first child's quilt! But the good news is, I'm all but finished with the two quilts for Jessie's girls. Belle is two and the new one is due in March and I plan of gifting them both with a quilt! Belle's quilt is a complicated piece and I've stumbled several times. The new girlie will get a simple quilt in a unique color combo of aqua, red and gray. I am reaching beyond the traditional patterns and colors in my latest efforts, although I tend to love a simple patchwork best. I have purchased fabric and patterns for about six more quilts, including a Gees Bend quilt.
Gees Bend is in Alabama and during the depression a group of ladies became famous for their unexpected twist on quilt making. They used what they had, with no money to purchase new fabric, they cut and scrapped old clothes, flour sacks, anything available to make bedcovering to keep their families warm. Years later, these old quilts were declared "works of art" by the public. The unusual thing which separates a Gees Bend quilt from others made across the US, is the almost modern art designs. Not mere patchwork squares or blocks, these quilts were usually muslin with splashes of color without pattern. Very graphic works from untrained, unskilled poor women in an isolated spot in the middle of the South. Courtney and I attended a showing of these quilts at the Louisville Speed Museum a few years ago and I fell in awe of them. We were blessed to met a few of the original quilters, each a sweet, strong woman, still producing ART. I will attempt to post an example of a Gees Bend quilt, but with my techno skills it may not happen. YOU know what I'm talking about!
I had a lovely experience yesterday, I told you all this was a busy week. Anyway, I attended a baby shower for the son of an old frien and his newborn son. Chris is a family therapist, a single parent and has adopted Michael his newborn son. As it often goes, Michael is the spitting of his daddy. Both are biracial with beautiful caramel skin and chocolate eyes. Chris was a constant in our home during high school and I look forward to watching his son grow up. He handed Michael over to me yesterday saying, "Burp me, Grandma Hedy." That is all it took, I'm hooked. Madeleine fell hard for this sweet living doll, too. She stalked him throughout the afternoon, hovering over anyone who had him in her arms. Always willing to open her arms and lap for him. The contact she made was wondrous, Maddie looked straight into his eyes and smiled so sweetly, whispering love words only Michael could hear. She hated to leave when the party was over. Shawn had to promise a Louisville trip soon...I'm onboard for that, Madd.
Our tradional Spring Break trip is in the final stages, Connie has chosen a beautiful, gulf front house with all 4 bedrooms facing the water. Stephen King insists I go ahead as always and enjoy my getaway with the girls. I am proceeding as though I am going, but can give my spot to a friend if Steve or Mackenzie are in an needful medical spot then. I will not go off if either is not up and around. Again, I believe that living positively brings about positive life! But it is a battle, some days, to present a happy, calm face to the world when inside I am full of doubts and questions and rage. I practice banning those feelings and most days I succeed. I appear calm and sure because I AM. Sure that we will beat these ills; Stephen King will be healthy and strong again and our Mackenzie will blossom to life with her Mama's kidney filtering the toxins from her body.
Faith is strong and powerful and nothing is more powerful than our God.
Love you, Ladies. Talk to me. Hedy

New News, It's Not All Bad

2012-01-15T19:54:00.000-05:00

HELLO Y'ALL,
Stephen King had his CTscan last week and we met with Dr. K on Wednesday for the results. Good new is: no sign cancer is getting worse or spreading, bad news is not noticably getting smaller either and there is a (new?/old?) lesion on his spleen which bothers her somewhat. When questioned, she just said we will watch it, no biopsy, as the spleen is prone to hemorrage. We will continue with plans for chemo again Feb. 1 and then repeat CTscan. Hopefully that will give cancer time to respond more positively to treatment. If not, it is back to square one and we look at different treatment. Apparently there are many, many drug combinations used with his type of cancer; some are successful on some people, some on others. We all feel this combo is working for him, his pain is nonexistent now, that has to mean something good is happening. He does have some infection in right lung which appears to be fading slowly. This isn't cancer, more likely pneumonia. He is feeling somewhat shaky this morning (Saturday) from treatment on Wednesday, pain in legs, rumbly tummy, weakness increasing. By Monday the diarrhea and total body aches will hit full force and next week will be one of resting, pushing fluids and making bathroom jokes. We have this chemo stuff down, People, we can handle it! Truefully, Steve does really well managing his pain and weakness thru all this. God has blessed him with a patient serenity he usually does not possess. Thank you, Lord. I know this was for me, more than him. At least, I am claiming it. Our days on this Journey are quiet, simple and filled with a feeling of partnership. We are a trio, Stephen King, me and God. He is very quiet yet sure in his faith. Prayer grounds him, I believe. I know it helps me to settle my thoughts and deminish my fear.
Mackenzie had her transfusion, received 2 units of strength-building blood. This week, we have seen a big difference in her. She has gone to 2 evening events at school and appears to have an easier time breathing. The low hemoglobin just won't carry enough oxygen to her damaged lungs. Praying the transplant is scheduled soon.
Wow, it is Sunday evening already. Weekends fly by even when your are retired. We had a very busy day, visitors in and out all day. Family checking on Stephen King, bringing brownies, kids and grands sharing lunch with us, more kids coming over to watch IU and weep. Good day :-) except for the IU part :-( For a couple of homebodies who generally only have each other for company, today was a whirlwind. We watched in wonder at our grandsons, both full of energy and chatter. Caleb telling tales about his good friend Barack Obama messaging him on his Blackberry and Gavin spinning tales of Lego creations he has made this week. Did our own boys have THIS much energy? I did have to chuckle, the boys weren't here at the same time yet each asked me to TELL his Dad to let him do something, "You are his Mom, he has to mind you". Apparently I am the queen!
Winter has come to stay, I guess. After weeks of 50 degree days we have cold winds and snow flurries in the Valley. I forget from January to January just how cold and dreary the Ohio Valley gets in the winter. Or how hot and humid it is in the summer. Someone remind me why we live here and not someplace with blue skies and balmy breezes. I really love small town Indiana, but am coming to the age where the thought of more moderate, enjoyable weather is attractive. I know I could not get Stephen King out of these hills and hollers though. His parents left Indiana when they retired for the desert of Arizona and he never understood why. He loves the gentle, green hills and the twisty narrow roads of our area and won't leave for more than a week or two at a time. Our favorite kind of day out is driving the backroads trying to get lost on one we have never traveled. There are fewer and fewer of those after 45+ years of this. Steve can always find the most interesting new paths to follow, sweet little homes tucked into a clearing, acre after acre of patchwork fields or deep dark woods growing close, nearly closing the road with their towering treetops. He points out houses of men he has worked with or woods where he has hunted or in one case a neat house on a hill where his dogs treed a coon in the garage belonging to two old ladies who were less than thrilled with him and his dog. We drive past homes we have owned wondering why we sold, or others wondering why we bought! I was 16 when we met, he was 19, we have grown up and grown old here together. This is why we stay.
Have a peaceful week, Everyone. Talk to me, Girls.

2012 A New Adventure?

2012-01-04T11:03:00.000-05:00

Happy New Year Ladies, here's wishing it is good to all of us. We aren't sorry to see the end of 2011, with all its surprises and challenges. I have decided to keep my chin up and my eyes on the prize in 2012. Things will happen, good and bad, but I determine how I respond to them. At times during the past year, I have forgotten this and felt beaten by all the bad things happening in our lives. This year I will remember to look closely at the good things going on with us. Stephen King is here, Mackenzie is getting the life-saving transplant, Mom has recovered from her injury and continues to be in good physical health, We are all still alive and kicking. We have been given the chance to live and love and learn from our happiness and suffering. God has Blessed us with His Grace.
Mackenzie will have another transfusion tomorrow at Riley, her hgb is down to 5 this week and her breathing is ragged. A refill of RBC (red blood cells) will carry her through till the tranplant in a few weeks. So far all signs point to a Jan/Feb Big Day for our girl. She is home today under protest, resting for tomorrow trip and fill-up. She is working on scholarship applications while resting. Our county foundation offers the Lily Scholarship and Kenzie is one of the Paoli seniors who qualifies because of grades and test scores. Hopefully, she will pass the first round and become one of the finalists for the award. This prestigious scholarship offers a full ride to any Indiana school. I'm so proud of her for qualifying inspite of her health issues.
Stephen King has a c-scan scheduled for Friday to check on the chemo's progress. We will get the results at Wednesday's treatment, but both of us feel sure that there has been shrinkage of the spine tumors, as his back pain has just about disappeared. We are choosing to keep positive thoughts about his adventure with cancer. We cannot change that he has this disease, but we can choose how we react to it. We choose to do everything possibly to beat it and that includes keeping our spirits light and raising our eyes up to God.
Cold weather moved in this week, snow and wild wind blew thru the Valley, but our family in Paoli had ice. We were blessed by our good neighbors, Ben and Benton brought out their snowblowers and cleared our drive and Edith sent down a persimmon pudding warm from the oven. I love our small towns, just like a big, loving family.
My sister came over last evening for a great visit. We only live 10 miles apart but only see each other in passing these last few months. She is at Mom's daily during the week, making sure everything is running smoothly. She does the grocery shopping, banking and bill paying for Mom. We couldn't manage without her. Her husband retired last week and is on a mission trip to eastern Ky this week rehabbing a home for a ministerial student. These two are givers in a big way. We love them and are so blessed to have them in our lives. It was nice to get an opportunity to just sit and visit with Deb, Stephen King and I were excited to have company, esp. her! We have spent an enormous amount of time together in the last few months and have enjoyed the chance to do so, but it is nice to hear from othes occasionally. We can get pretty boring day after day without seeing anyone but each other. Playing musical chairs can only be entertaining for so long... we tend to go from one chair to the next trying to find the most comfortable. Once in awhile someone will hit the couch for a little snooze. Lupus and cancer do not allow for athletic endeavors on most days. We will often quarrel over who is the weakest and should not be washing dishes. My 1950s upbringing won't allow me to sit while my cancer ridden hubby cleans the kitchen after meals and he remembers last year when he had to carry my soup to our bed for me to eat .
He doesn't want a relay of that and encourages (nags) me to rest. Of course, I am much, much better now and can manage preparing a meal and cleaning up after. God sees to it that one of us is strong enough to take care of the other in this partnership. We always have and always will.
Steve has decided to go check on our nephew (the 3rd son) and his house building adventure today. He is two weeks out from his last treatment and feels the best he has since last month. This means if he sits down and rests for 15 minutes after getting dressed he can drive 5 miles to Ians! The weakness from the chemo is the only side effect which will not go way it seems. He has always been big and strong and is having difficulty dealing with this. I feel the need to drive him myself but he refuses that offer. I just remind him to use his head and not exhaust himself. After dealing with lupus for 20 years, I've finally learned this lesson.
Since I have a few hours to myself, I think I may take down Christmas and return the parlor to my sewing room. The 4 quilt tops are still patiently waiting to be finished. I think I may just play grab-bag and work on which ever I come upon first.
I had a great chat with Alison about her awesome new (old) mantle piece this week. I'd love to hear from the rest of my girls. Love you all. Talk to me, Hedy

Christmas 2011

2011-12-26T00:18:00.000-05:00

Another Christmas behind us, Ladies. Time is flying by and in a short week it will be 2012. I wonder what it will hold for us. I am happy to be finished with this year, a year of change and heartache and fear. Each January 1 brings hope for peace, prosperity and good health, travel, excitement and contentment. My sister was born on Jan. 1, 1951. I always thought that was such a cool birthday to have, of course you have to consider that it is so close to Christmas the gifts might be a little lacking. For a few years, Mom and Dad gave her gifts on my birthday, June 25, exactly 6 months from Christmas. And I would get something on Jan. 1 also. Usually pajamas as I remember. As a kid, I loved New Years and made long lists of resolutions; to read all the books in our library, to get all As in school, to become a nun, to become Catholic so I could become a nun ( this was either the year I read A Nun's Story or the year Mom told us she should have become a nun), to become a better daughter (you know when this was). As I grew older, my lists got shorter and more centered on losing weight, growing my hair long, getting contacts to replace the glasses I'd worn since I was 7. I still am a list maker, just not New Years resolutions so much. No, my lists now say, " Dr. appt. Wednesday, treatment 9:00 Monday, stop for gas, pick up prescriptions, get chicken soup and 7-Up." The day-to-day simple things take priority over long term goals now.
All through Stephen King's illness I have felt distanced, as if I am watching from somewhere else. Christmas has been this way for me too. Last night, Christmas Eve, we were at our niece's home with all my side of our family. I knew Steve wouldn't feel up to staying too long, but I wanted to visit with everyone for a few minutes. Yet instead of traveling the room speaking with each of them, I sat beside my husband and watched. I watched the ladies gather around the baby, cooing and kissing his sweet fat cheeks, watched the cousins laugh and tease each other as if they were small kids again instead of grown adults. Watched as the grandchildren thanked my Mom for her gift to them, some hugging her frail shoulders, others kissing her wrinkled cheek. I watched as each of them spoke to Steve, shocked by his weight loss, by the quiet voice, by the shaky hands. And I couldn't feel a part of it, not really, I was behind my wall. This afternoon our kids came for Christmas. We did a simple homemade soup and sandwich affair for the first time ever. Steve cannot tolerate big meals after treatment so we will hold off til New Years for our big dinner. Our little ones were too excited to eat much, Caleb even helped clear the table to hurry the process. For an hour the paper and ribbons flew, ohhs and ahhhs accompanied each gift making its appearance. A Lego watch was Gavin's "best gift ever" and the snowboots were Cabe's. Maddie was shocked by the box of BBs then thrilled with the Pink Daisy rifle! The big girls loved the new handbags and IU sweats. The Christmas stockings were, as always, the treat of the evening, filled with wacky treasures and silly tokens. The sons and wives approved of their presents, though neither pair of boots fit our bigfoots. Nina giggled over her "philosophy" skin products and Shawn squealed with joy at her Kuerig coffee thingy. Stephen King proudly showed me the hatchet our son had crafted and the UnderArmor jacket, " just like the boys have".
And I loved it all, I was happy with the day and my own gifts, but I didn't feel here. I grabbed the little ones a million times holding them close to hear their heart beats, to feel their soft skin, just to prove I was here. My coping skill seems to be working too well.
I hope each of you had a joyous Christmas and that you all enjoy each second of your break. Love you all.

Oh My Goodness

2011-12-17T11:57:00.000-05:00

Courtney left last Friday, traveling back to her life in Oz. We want her to go. We want her to stay. She has been a blessing these 5 weeks, standing beside us through it all. But she has her life with Ken in Australia and just as our boys cannot leave their jobs and hold our hands, neither can Court leave her home. We are proud of our children and their compassion, faithfulness and generousity. Knowing this about your offspring makes a parent happy.
Mackenzie will receive her mother's kidney after the first of the year. Shawn is a near perfect match for Mack. Her long trial will soon be over. We can't wait for her to feel better, feel normal, feel healthy. She is even looking into colleges that require a move from home. Mack has always been a homebody, wanting family around her even on vacations. The idea of leaving home for school would send her into panic mode. She is a complex young woman, so intelligent, easy going on the surface but panicky underneath, and faithful to a Lord she loves. Since they have found that Shawn is a match and the transplant will be done, Mack has shown an unusual rebellion toward her meds and treatments. For 8 years she has been responsible for keeping up with all her meds and diet and now that it is almost over she forgets to take them or doesn't do her breathing treatment. "Screw it", she said tonight to her Mom's inquiry. What is she thinking?? Actually, it is good to see some normal teenage rebellion in our near perfect girl.
Stephen King is having a good weekend after a sickly week with bronchitis. He got up and out early this morning just like the old Saturday routine; off to visit a sister or two, a son or two. Taking Caleb down to farm to meet Pete, our new Great Pyrenes puppy. He is for the sheep, a guard against coyotes and Big Foot. Yes Ladies, the big guy has been spotted in Paoli. There is an expert from Missouri investigating the area as I write this. Front page news in the local paper, so much more interesting than the five drug busts last week. Love, love, love our home town.
Treatment 3 comes on Wednesday. We are praying it is without lingering effects for Christmas activities. He isn't much of a Christmas fan to begin with and we aren't ready for Papaw on steroids for the Holidays. The Grinch lives in his heart, well, not just his, his 5 sisters don't care for it either. I have been puzzling this for 45 years and still have no answer. They all attest to wonderful Christmas times as children. They just don't get it as adults, I suppose. Stephen King has learned I will not be influenced by his scrooginess. I love Christmas, the story of our Savior's birth and the commercial side, too. I hate shopping but like to buy gifts. (I know). I love finding just the right gift for everyone on my list. This year is somewhat different; gifts are here, but tree isn't decorated yet and only partially finished with wrapping. But I have sugar cookies cooling, waiting to be iced and hot cinnamon candy waiting to be cracked into pieces. A few Santas from my large collection are on display and a red Scentsy light in the kitchen. Not a total wash out, but a little cheer. I'm looking forward to hearing our daughter-in-law sing "Mary, Did You Know" on Christmas morning, voice like a bell. Makes my eyes tear up and my heart swell.
Mom has been released from care by the orthopedic doc and the physical therapist, she is just having difficulty remembering that she can use her arm now. Deb has taken care of her Christmas cookies and fudge. Mom insists she has to have them for Christmas Eve with the family. Once again we will all gather at our niece Stori's for our celebration. The King's missed it last year since Mack and Maddie were in Riley, so we are really excited about it. Stori and Jamey have 5 kiddos, 3 natural and 2 adopted. The boys Ian 2 and Chad 4 are from the Congo and are so beautiful. Liv, Parker and baby Owen are the the other beautifuls. Liv is the oldest and only girl, which she loves, Parker is 10 and is the smartest kid I know. He has the mind of a scientist and the curiosity of a boy, a regular Indian Jones, I say. Owen is just 6 months old, he was a surprise baby. They were considering adopting from the Congo again when Owen showed up. Sweetest, happiest gift from God. I love our family Christmas Eve, so many memories shared here and so many little guys I don't get to see as often as I'd like. Jamey and Stori bless us with their open home.
I have pink eye this morning, an unexpected gift from some unknown benefactor. Antibiotic drops will have me seeing by midweek, I hope, there is alot more to do round here than wear sunglasses and spray Lysol. Life is a party here in the Valley. Take care, Ladies. talk to me.

BLESSED

2011-11-11T10:26:00.000-05:00

We have seemimgly been blessed, Stephen King has had very few side effects to his first chemo treatment. Some indigestion and jittery voice appear to be it. His session lasted 7 hours yesterday and will be repeated every 3 weeks for 6 treatments, so he is in for a long haul this winter. Actually we both were surprised at the ease we felt at the cancer center. The staff is wonderfully supportive without smothering the patients. The other patients are kind, respectful and quiet. Steve read alot, but couldn't nap because of the massive amount of steroids he had been given prior to treatment and the near constant need to empty his bladder! All that fluid has to be released. He was jittery and almost giggly from the steroids, which I quite enjoyed watching. Usually he isn't a giggly man!
It is now Friday morning and all is well. the only side effect is the jittery voice and a tendency to rattle on about anything. And everything. Courtney and I have been entertained by this especially during the evening. Stephen King does a running commentary on all the TV shows. He is a faithful Jon Stewart fan and apparently the steroids have increased his love for him. I cannot decide which is funnier; Jon talking about politics or Stephen King loudly and RAPIDLY repeating Jon talking about politics. Totally sarcasm squared!
We are maintaining the status quo here in the Valley, living as near a normal life as we can. Except I am more conscious of each day, each sunrise and sunset than I've ever been. We have been blessed by this and by each other and we really, really know it.
Thanks for all your loving support, Gaggle. Talk to me, Girls. I love you all.

THE BEST LAID PLANS.....

2011-10-29T23:16:00.000-04:00

Hello all,
      Just when you think you have a plan... you get a wake up call from the Man in charge. Stephen King and I planned our lives long ago: I'd stay home raise the kids, keep house while he made the living. Then I'd finish school, have a career and he would retire early. About that time, his company restructured and he lost his job, just before retirement. God laughed. But He saw us thru it and Steve found a less stressful job for a few years. Then retired. If anyone ever enjoyed retirement it is Stephen King. After 40 + years of days starting at 4:00 AM and ending after dark, he was free to do what he wanted. He became my "house bitch". Our joke. He made beds, washed dishes and shopped. I found this wonderful. Grocery shopping is my most dreaded chore. Ok, back to the Plan. After a rough year we decided I would retire, too. God starts grinning here, the state decided I had worked 30 days too little to get my pension. OK, we can live without it. We decide to travel. Stephen King begins to complain about his aching back. Pulled muscle? Docs agree. Chiropractor declares 6 weeks of adjustments are called for. Maybe not the answer. Doc wants tests, xrays, bone scans, lab work, catscans. God cries alittle here, I think...Lung cancer that has spread to the bones. Spine, hip, femur, breast bone and collar bone. We wait while the biopsy is being examined, and wait, and wait. Of course, I have to do some research. Never do research. There is NOTHING good about this. But God has smiled at us again, the cancer is adencarcinoma, a common type usually treatable with good results. No cure, but time. Chemo therapy begins next week and Stephen King has decided he will breeze thru it and carry on with his plans. I cannot take that optimistism away from him by repeating horror stories of chemo I have always heard. Attitude and faith will see us thru this. We will lean on each other as always. Throughout our 45 years together, it has been us against the world. From two kids falling in love against everyone's advice to retired geezers having God laugh at our plans, we are together, hand in hand. What doesn't kill us, makes us stronger, we learned this so many lessons ago. We are still here. And God is still smiling at us.
      Stephen King wants us to keep our life normal, no moping around, no hidden tears, no whispered secrets. And so we are. I had dinner last night at the Winery with my Spring Break girls and he took a long walk with Hank the dog and Ian the 3rd son. We both had a wonderful time. The boys and their families were here tonight Trick or Treating and having soup and cupcakes. When Courtney gets here on Monday, we will do the same things we always do when she visits. The treatments will just be worked in around our planned activities. Sunday we will have our big party for Stephen King and Trent, who missed being born on his dad's birthday by 4 hours. Christmas shopping, Thanksgiving, staying with my mom will all go on as usual. He is cllingthe shots and we will go along as long as we must.
     As for me, I'm still numb. My friend who saw her son thru lynmphoma, tells me to stay numb. I know I should be experiencing something else, something profound, painful, scary. But not yet. I check every morning, asking myself, "Is it here yet? That overwhelming feeling of helplessness". But it isn't. I know it will come. I know it has to come. But not now, God must not be ready for it yet. I know I'm not.
      Talk to me, Ladies. Love, Hedy

2011-10-18T11:04:00.000-04:00

Hello Ladies,

I have always been a realist, perferring to know the facts and deal with any issue head on. But we received some news yeterday that has shaken us into wanting to hide from the truth. Stephen King's backaches are not from a pulled muscle afterall, he has bone cancer coming from lung cancer. Makes me want to crawl in a hole and cover my head, but that isn't going to happen here! We will follow the doctors' lead and fight this. It isn't curable, but they will treat it to stop progression and pain. Steve's general good health and strong body will help him fight this, as will his attitude. If ever anyone had an attitude...it is the Kings!

His take on this is that it sucks. But we have handled lots of things in our 45 years together; massive head injuries from a work accident, bone tumors, house fires, lupus, drug addicted kid, critically ill grandchildren, death of parents. Ahhh the list goes on, each seemed insurmountable in its time, but we made it successfully through each of them. This may have a different outcome, but we will deal with it in our usual way, day by day, step by step, head on. Reality sucks but it has to be dealt with, it doesn't go away. Steve said yesterday, "Another test. As long as it is strength, not smarts, I'm OK". Always has a smart remark, he has.

Please, send up your prayers, good thoughts, or positive vibes, whatever is your belief, for us. We will need support from all our friends with this one. Talk to me. Love

AUTUMN COLOR

2011-10-06T12:42:00.000-04:00

Good Sunday morning to you all,
        It is a lovely fall weekend in the Valley, we had a big frost last night. I'm glad that I haven't had flowers on my porches this summer to be bitten. Trent took mine to their house when we were in Florida and I never brought them back here. Nina has coaxed them into beautiful blooms all summer and they are still going strong. With my time being spent at Mom's, I would have neglected the flowers and they woud have been long gone by now. I'll bring the ferns home for my parlor soon and hope they will winter well. I may pick up a mum or two today just to brighten up the porch.
        My family continues to care for our mother around the clock, she is much improved, but living alone is not a possibilty yet. Nor may it be in the future. The physical injury has exaggerated the Alzheimers' symptoms and the fear of another fall keeps us close to her side. My sister, brothers, and sisters-in-law share the responsibility of staying with Mom, rotating every 24 hours. The boys are only available on weekends, but are right there when they can be. We all are very close to Mom, each in our own way; I'm the oldest and have a bond with her, Deb has been able to spend time over the years helping Mom with cleaning and Christmas shopping and day to day life, Mike is the first boy and the Golden Child, we all say, and Rob is Mom's baby boy.  He came as a surprise to her and Dad when the rest of us were teenagers. And he has always been a blessing, keeping them young, they always said.  We all know this may be a long journey for our family and are willing to continue as long as it takes. Thankful we have each other to help us stay strong.
        The transplant process is slowly continuing for Mackenzie. This week brought another Riley visit and a ton of lab work. When this is analyzed, they will test her parents for a donor match. We feel it is taking too long, but know this team is the best in the nation for pediatric transplants and will trust their judgement. It is rather like sitting on a skillet which grows hotter and hotter each day, and not being able to jump off. Mack has been feeling unwell for the last few weeks, but is at school each day, working on her school yearbook, keeping her grades up inspite of it all. We went to Bloomington yesterday afternoon to get some outfits for Senior pictures. She had taken her SATS that morning and had a ton of nervous energy to work off, by 6:00pm she was zonked out in the backseat. No late Saturday nights for her until after the trnsplant. A transplant is going to give her more than just healthy kidney, it will give Mackenzie a normal teenage life. She has been ill since she was 9 and doesn't know normal life or feeling good. I cannot wait for her to experience life at full power. She is such a sweet girl, trusting in her parents, her doctors and her God to keep her safe.
       Courtney will be here for the month of November. We are counting the days. She has had strep and even had a doctor make a house call! I was surprised to hear that in Australia it is not unusual to have a heatlh insurance policy which provides a doc come round whenever one is too ill to get out. Their doctor has recently relocated across the city and they decided to use this service. She was quite impressed by the lady who showed up after Ken's call. Competent and professional and reassuring that her high fever and earache were something treatable and not the plague Court felt it to be!
         I cannot believe it is already Thursday again, where are we rushing to these days? I expected retirement to be a slowed down version of life, but amazingly it moves even faster than the world of work. I attempt to enjoy quiet moments each day and not just live for weekends, however, some days are gone before I know it. I have been home alone for a few hours this morning and have truly enjoyed the action of stripping beds, sweeping floors and pressing clothing. It feels so normal but it has been weeks since I have done these chores at one time. Usually it is a bit of laundry here, a run through with the vac there and finger pressing the wrinkles from my tops and shaking out my jeans! :-). I plan to take Mom to see The Help this evening, she read the book earlier, but has forgotten most of it. I'm excited for her to see the film, she enjoys movies. At least movies on Lifetime, which don't require much attention. My oh my that network tries my patience with its made for TV nonsense. Our lives are challenging, but imagine how one would survive some of those ridiculous situations on there!
         I bought a bright yellow mum for my porch as we came home from Indy on Tuesday. It looks so nice and cheerful in the big green pot Shawn gave me for my birthday. A point of light in an otherwise drab porch. I got Shawn and Mom a couple of them for their porches too. We all need some color to perk us up and I love fresh flowers. Maybe I'll be a florist when I grow up! Spreading the joy one plant at a time.
        Stephen King has suffered back pain all summer and it continues to nag him, but he is going to put a new roof on the house this month with the help of the boys. I'm so excited to see that happen, the old green shingle roof is tired and dirty. A clay colored metal roof will up the cheerful vibe around this homestead. I plan to paint the garage and garden shed next spring and put one of those barn quilts on the garage. Our little place is nestled into a hillside and it will be sweet to fancy it up abit. The house is a cosy place inside and these changes will help the outside feel cosy too. Love fluffing up the home place!
        The Fall Gagglefest is set for Janelle's on Oct. 21 and I cannot wait to see everyone and catch up with all of my girlies. This is a special group for me, most of my friends have been local and usually family connected until the Gaggle. Never have I meet a stronger group of ladies. All of them work full time as wonderful counselors or teachers and still take care of their families without missing a beat. Each faces her own struggle but is always quick to respond to a friend in need. Old Mothergoose is blessed to be part of this gang.
         Now I really have to shower and get to Mom's. My sister-in-law has had all the fun she needs in the last 24 hours and I get my turn. How blessed we are to have such loving girls in our brothers' wives.  Carol and Donna are more than in-laws, they are daughters to Mom. And we all love them for it.
        Enjoy this wonderful weather, everyone. Talk to me.

2011-09-20T11:09:00.000-04:00

9-11 Ten Year Anniversary has past without another attack on our country, but each time we hear that date we relive the horror and the fear of that day. Time cannot bring back those who lost their lives, nor can time remove the horror our country witnessed. I believe 9-11 was the day US citizens realised we were living a dream. We have unconsciously (maybe) assumed nothing bad could happen to our nation. Maybe individuals could suffer or be brought down, but our nation was invincible. The USA was above the rest, untouchable, teflon, now we have to realise we are vulnerable. A difficult lesson.
9-20-11. I cannot believe I didn't post that. My days seem to be running together without pause. Mom continues to need care. Her arm is progressing nicely, but she still cannot care for herself. At times it becomes too emotional to handle and I break a little. A few tears, lots of sighs then back to action. I miss my mom. She comes and goes, but is never totally herself. We never lose the need to be mothered, but now the roles are reversed. I know so many of us will experience a parent with dementia issues, but until you do it is impossible to imagine the emotions involved. Helplessness is enormous, sadness, but tempered with the joy of being allowed to give care to someone who cared for you.
We had a King reunion this weekend. It was great to visit with cousins we hadn't seen in years. Kids I remember as pre-teens, suddenly have children of their own...in high school! How times flies. Fun to see similarities between the children of first cousins who do not remember each other. Even names are shared in some cases, Kenzie King is a 17 year old senior and a 2 year old toddler. Both with sweet, round faces and spunky attitudes. Seeing a 16 year old Marnie play croquette with two year old Ada brings back memories of their mothers, Tonya and Carla, playing volleyball as little girls.
More later, Ladies. I'm running late. Talk to me. ps Elaine, it was terrific to hear from you. I miss you so much. Love

2011-08-26T10:29:00.000-04:00

Hello Ladies, another Monday morning here, I've decided today will be the start of my scheduled quilt time. I will devote 2 hours to Whitt's cowboy quilt first. He is a year old already, so I need to get it finished and sent off to Chicago before he grows up! It is a simple 10 inch block quilt with a variety of cute cowboy fabrics and a horsie applique. I'm framing each block in a beige lasso print. I think I'm happy with it now, I've ripped and replaced a couple of times already.
Hi, again! This is Friday already. it has been another busy week. Monday was my night at Mom's and on Tuesday she had an appointment in Bloomington to get her new hearing aide. Our 12th trip messing with this one between Mom putting one in the garbage disposal and the doctor breaking another one. We are beginning to doubt the value of hearing! This trip turned into a lengthy shopping trip, as Mom wanted to go to Kohls. Now you know my disgust with WalMart, well Kohls is a close second on my shopping meter. I love online shopping, no stress at all sitting in my living room, clicking on pretty things to purchase.
On Wednesday, Shawn and I took Mackenzie to Riley to meet with the transplant team co-ordinator and her kidney doctor. She is a gracious lady, calm and full of info we will need for our journey to a new kidney for Kenz. We can start the testing of donors now, she gave us the criteria list. Her surgeon will not accept anyone over 50, so some of our volunteers are automatically ruled out. But we are confident that a match will be found within the family soon. They would like to do the surgery just before the Holidays to allow a long recovery without missing much school. Keep her in your prayers, please.
We got some great news this week, Ken is sending Courtney home for the month of November! She has been suffering from a big case of homesickness since Mom and Kenz are both having health issues, so he decided to surprise her. She was ruled out as a donor because the blood types aren't a match, so she thought she wouldn't be coming back until 2012. He is such a good guy. He understands how close Court is to Kenz and knows she needs to be here for awhile. We can't wait!
Janelle has offered to host a FallDown Gagglefest in Sept. I do hope we can all get there! I miss my geese! Of course, I was the one who didn't make the last one. I'm putting the end of Sept on my calendar and praying nothing interferes with that weekend. My summer world consisted of going from our house to Mom's, Stephen King did our shopping and took care of himself, I didn't have our Sunday suppers with the kids or get away for short trips as we usually do. So I am ready for some good conversation and a little dip in the counseling/education world again and catching up on all the happenings with these ladies.
Actually, I am meeting some friends from school this evening at the Winery, our first get-together since spring. This is the group that takes Spring Break together and have always been my closest friends at work. I expect to hear all the stories about the first 3 weeks of school, horror and funnies! I purposely haven't gone into school yet. I don't trust myself not to set up business and never leave. The phone calls keep coming from parents, students and teachers seeking support and advice which I can deal with. But actually being there seems like too much of a challenge.
I want to report that the scheduled quilting time hasn't happened this week since Monday! I just haven't been home long enough to do it. I planned to sneak in a few minutes this morning to get a border on Whitt's quilt. Wish me luck!
It looks like a beautiful weekend in the Valley, as we pray for the East coast. Earth quakes and hurricanes striking so hard. Take care and enjoy the weekend. Talk to me. Love

SCHOOL STARTED TODAY...WITHOUT ME.

2011-08-09T14:38:00.000-04:00

Hello Ladies,
I made it. Valley went to school this morning and I slept right through it! I may have some doubts and down moments, but at this moment, I feel confident that retiring was the correct decision. I am so happy to be able to help my mom through her recovery. I shudder to think I would have to return to my office instead. Several folks have texted, messaged and called to ask how I feel about not going back, and I have to honestly say, "I haven't given it a thought!" I'm finished with that part of my life; no regrets, no seconds thoughts and no looking back.
When Mom gets on her feet and we are no longer staying at night, I m going to quilt everyday. I plan to have a scheduled morning quilting hour or two. I have so many tops to finish, patterns to cut and quilts to quilt or have quilted, I know that scheduling time will ensure they get done. I do believe that choosing fabric is the big thrill for me, maybe I should just buy fabric and gift it to a real quilter! I suppose that might cause custody issues when they were finished though.
Stephen King's garden is done. The tomatoes have just about dried up on the vines. Guess there will be no juicing this fall. He has spent many long, hot hours out ther this summer and the results were delicious. I am happy he enjoys gardening, it fills lots of empty hours for him. I do wish he had another hobby though, maybe woodworking or something like it. TV seems to rot his brain, he continues to watch NBA games from the 80s and movies from the 30s. Not just watch but ENJOY! Makes me sad to see his little head shrinking. He does spend time reading, and I love that. But he tends to drop off after a few chapters and wants to share what he's reading with me. I have a rule DON'T READ TO ME AND I WON'T READ TO YOU. He isn't quite up on that one yet.
The kiddos are starting school tomorrow and none of them are excited about it at all. The boys and Madeleine haven't had enough playtime and Mackenzie isn't sure about her senior year. The transplant is likely to interfere with school this year at some point, but we don't know when. Not knowing is difficult for her. Mack is a good patient but would like to have more of a definite timeline. She plans on working on the yearbook from her bed, she hasn't talked about the rest of her classes! I know the kids will all settle into school in a matter of days. They are all good students and learn like eager beavers. Their friends are all at school and the little ones are social butterflies. Caleb will play basketball this year and I would be thrilled if the doctors allowed Maddie to play. She is a born athlete, but hasn't been healthy enough to play in the past, with the last surgery we hope her heart will be strong enough. Gavin has done soccer and tennis, but 1st grade doesn't have basketball. It will be something to start all those school activities over again with these boys, their dad's kept us busy in the 80s. I really cannot believe my boys are in their forties, gee, where did all the time go?
Have a stack of ironing waiting for me, Girls. Talk to me, Love

Real Life

2011-07-31T14:42:00.002-04:00

We are back to real life here in the Valley, you can escape for only so long. Mom fell in her yard and broke her wrist and shoulder 2 weeks ago and has required 24/7 care since. My sister and sisters-in-law have been wonderful, jumping in to help with her care. We rotate through the week 24 hours at a time. so blessed to have such a loving family.
Stephen King and I just finished the corn; we have quite an operation, him outside shucking, blanching in a big canner on the gas grill, me inside dumping it in icy water and cutting it off with the electric knife and bagging it up. It is finished for another year, and if it doesnt rain soon, our garden with it. Our tomatoes are desparate for water. Overall, Stephen King has had a banner year with his garden this year, love to have some tomatoes to can though! We never seem to be satisfied with what blessing we have, always asking for just a little more. Must have come from Eve and that danged apple!.
Bless her heart, Mom held out till I was almost home from vacation to get hurt. We had a terrific time in Cape San Blas, relaxing, swimming, playing on the beach, and lots of reading and eating. Caleb was amazed at the amount of food we bought, cooked and ate. He kept asking, " What are we going to do with all this food." I think it was because lots of it had to be put on the counter at the bar. Our house was new, modern, and beautiful but lacked a pantry and good storage. This drove me crazy, as I like everything put away out of sight. Apparently it bothered Cabe too!
Yesterday was a fun day for my girls and I. We headed to Clarksville for our annual school shopping and lunch. Mackenzie is a senior so this will be our last for high school , but I'm sure IUS will require a trip or two next year. Madeleine is a 6th grader this year and she is ready to go. Her last year at Throop Elementary. Only our boys remain. I promised them a trip for boys only this week. In the first and second grades, they have lots of school years to prepare for. Caleb is not quite as enthused about the whole deal as we would wish. He seems to like freedom and play much better than learning. Or at least better than sitting and listening. He and Gavin are bright boys, quick to catch on the new concepts and they get along well with other kids. And can charm most adults into whatever they desire! To add to the fun day, Shawn and I took all the littles to see "The Smurfs" last night. It was a cute movie, so much less annoying than SpongeBob or even than the old TV show. After the movie Stephen King and I joined the kids at Trent and Nina's pool. An after dark swim was just the ticket after a hot busy day. So quiet down on the farm at night, just the stars and some heat lightening for company, we floated around quietly chatting. Gavin went to sleep in a floatie on Shay's lap. So peaceful.
This week brings another Riley visit for Mack, this one to the pulmonologist. Her lungs have responded well to the new antibiotic, but still inhibit her activity. A new kidney will help her breathe better by sending clean blood to those damaged lungs. The disease is dormant, just scar tissue remains in the lungs, so keeping the undamaged areas healthy is critical. We are waiting for the initial meeting of the transplant team, so we can start the family testing. So many have offered to donate if they match. Wonderful, caring people, family and friends plus a few strangers who have heard of Mack's need for a kidney.
Mom is healing well, better than expecting at her age. We will just keep doing what we are doing till they can start physical therapy in a couple of weeks. She has been a pleasant patient so far, but the PT may bring on more pain than she can graciously deal with. And that's OK, she deserves to complain a bit. She has always been a quiet, gracious lady and with this injury her biggest complaint is feeling guilty that she has to "bother" us girls. As if she hasn't devoted her whole life to taking care of her family... we are just paying our dues! It truly has been a pleasure to do for her. I hate to see her hurting and helpless, but I have loved being with her for all the hours, even sleeping in the big king bed beside her. Watching over her and making her comfortable makes me happy. I am so glad I have retired and can do this.
Talk tome ,Ladies. Love you all.

VACATION

2011-07-12T12:27:00.000-04:00

Week 2 begins with a thunder storm that catches me and the little ones on the road to Port St. Joe! It is quickly over though and the heat intensifies well into the 90s. We return to the house and collect the others for a trip to Appalachicola and St. George Island. Surrounded by such beauty in the land and seascapes, I am smiling with joy. The guys, Stephen King and son, returned to Indiana yesterday morning after a pretty pleasant week. Papaw settled into the groove of vaca after a day or so and enjoyed himself. He still finds no attraction with the ocean, preferring mountains, but was sweet to try.
Kenz hurt her foot in the pool and has hobbled around for 2 days, minimizing her discomfort and replying "fine" when asked how it feels, She attempts to keep a good spin on the whole trip. The translant is obviously on her mind, as she searches the internet for experiences from other organ recipients. I think she has resolved her qualms about the surgery and just wants to get it over with at this point. Hopefully, we will find a quick family match and put this behind us by fall. My prayers are for peace and good health for Mackenzie, she has been ill since she was 9 and has no memories of being an active little girl. A series of seizures a few years ago, took away most of her childhood memories.
Maddie has had a good time, quietly observing all the rest of us, playing with her daddy and Caleb in the water and demonstrating her own teenage angst! She turned 12 last week and is already having meltdowns which require slamming doors, silent stares and mouthy responces to adults. I'm amazed at some of her antics! She has always been so laid back it is funny to see her having normal reactions. I have a difficult time reprimanding her, we have waited so long for her to communicate her feelings. Didn't expect such strong feelings though! I realize some of this is the ADD and OCD along with her communication disorder and we should be redirecting her towards more appropriate behavior. How hard it is when the child is yours and not a client or student. I am encouraged by such typical adolescent actions from Madeleine.
Shayla is here with us, leaving the others behind. She was not about to let a Florida trip pass her by. She is showing some homesickness though, a little crying spell, lots of phone time, but overall, she is satisfied. Shay enjoys being with the cousins and grandparents wherever we are. She is up for the beach, the pool or shopping. She always volunteers for clean-up duty and will sleep on a rock if necessary with no complaint. This house feels smaller than some others we've rented, but everyone has had a good place to sleep. I insist on that when I rent. Sleep is important even on vacation.
We have had 2 days of rain with clear evenings. Maddie and I play pool volleyball til it is too dark to see, laughing everytime she serves over my head and I roll under the water. It is Tuesday morning and everyone but me is down by the pool soaking up rays, as much as 70 SPF allows! Of course, I have to avoid the direct sun and spend my time on 1 of the decks, reading and watching the kids and the waves. Yesterdays rain allowed me to hear the surf! Usually I try to sleep with my door or window open, but here Im in a room facing the road, not the water. :-(
The girls have planned on a mini-shopping trip this afternoon to Port St. Joe's boutiques. Mexico Beach has a nice little Life Is Good shop that we will visit too. I love the things from that company and have been eyeing a new tote. But really, do I need another totebag? But this one is striped in the colors of the sea! But didn't I just donate bags to Goodwill when I cleaned closets? I do not need another! But.....
Our car will be so full of people and luggage going home that our purchases are limited. Shayla and I will be riding with Shawn and the kids since the guys took my Jeep home. I want a large clay pot for my yard, but doubt if we can make room. I'm thinking a water feature from it to add alittle something to my back garden. Stephen King sent me pix of tomatoes from his garden last night! He has taken green beans, cabbages and cucumbers to my sister and Mom this week. I hope I don't miss all the good stuff! I intend to can tomatoes and freeze corn later. Stephen King raises great corn! Our tomatoes are usually a little iffy, for some reason. But there is nothing better than produce straight from the garden into the kitchen.
Shawn's mom and nephew are here this week, adding to our fun. Rosie is an old friend of ours and is so sweet and easy to be with. We have all been family for so long there are no uncomfortable moments, we just fit. She is a realtor and even in this economy her phone rings constantly, luckily we have poor reception on the Cape! I believe she is enjoying the break.
They are beginning to drift in for lunch, Caleb has eaten 3 bowls of cereal and 2 bagels and a bowl of strawberries! Nothing like an 8 year old boy to put away food.
Having another terrific day in paradise, wish you all were here.. Talk to me! Love

62-- If You Say It Fast, It's Not So Bad!

2011-06-29T20:11:00.000-04:00

Hi, I've always been an optimistic, cup half-full person,but this aging thing has been trying me. I won't give in though, promise! I have too much to look forward to from this point. Stephen King and I are easing into retirement and being together much more than we have for 25 years. He is attempting to make it easy for me to get settled into our new lifestyle, but I sometimes get into his routine and mess up his schedule. ie: cleaning up after meals, his 4 pm TV watching. He is a man of strong habits and has his method cut in stone, and I sometimes don't fit into my place! I can see him stop, process what is happening, try to adjust, and bend with the wind! Such a giant step for a man accustomed to having things his way! I think we will get along fine, even if the family has bets on how long before one of us moves out! hehehe.
As of now, Monday morning, we are leaving for Cape San Blas on Friday morning at 8:00. Nothing packed yet, we don't possess vaca clothes per se, just wear our regular things with the exception of swimsuits. We will include them, but it remains to be seen if they are worn. I'm a night time pool person and Stephen King doesn't care for pools or oceans, so they probably will not get out of the suitase. I did buy 2 pair of shorts for beach walking, my capris always end up wet. I am daring enough to take some tank tops and expose my fishbelly upper arms to the sun. Bystanders will be encouraged to look away! Between his white legs and my white arms, others may suffer blindness if they look directly at us! We love roadtrips and since he hasn't been to the area, Stephen King is anxious to get started. He told Stephen we would leave them behind if they weren't up and ready when we take off. Luckily we have hotel reservatons for Friday night and the kids can travel at their own speed. We like to stop and look around small towns along the way, something the kids usually don't do on the way down. It is more of a challenge to round up 3 or 4 kids and get back on the road than it is 2 old geezers! And the kiddos are seldom interested in antique shops or historical markers.
Of course our garden is just coming on as we leave. Nina and Trent are put on harvest duty, I hope to have some green beans left to enjoy. The tomatoes, corn and peppers will be later so we will still have good stuff for August. This has proven to be a good garden season with all the rain and heat. Cabbage, broccoli and squash have tasted so good and fresh. I can give up meat during the summer without a doubt. Stephen King fried rabbit livers for his supper last night, I was happy with mashed potatoes and fresh garden cucumbers. Really, rabbit liver. Domestic bunnies, at that, as in Bugs Bunny and Peter Cottontail. Kinda like eating Hank or the cat twins, Hunk n Zeke. But that's just me. :-)
Heard from two of my Gaggle this week, Jill is retiring!!! I hope to spend some time in roadtrip adventureland with her. Alison is experiencing another annoying health issue! Doctors assure her it is common and easily dealt with, but poor Al has heard that before. I wish for an overnight with my girls to talk and laugh and cry this stuff out. Maybe later in July. Take care, Alison, we all love you.
Courtney has tested as a possible match for Mackenzie's transplant, but until the appointment on July 19 we won't really know the criteria for a match. Mack doesn't want to talk about it over vacation, so we won't. We are going to relax, laugh, swim, eat, shop, walk and see the sights. No serious, worrisome thoughts will be allowed. Sure it is denial, but what is wrong with that? We deal with issues and fears and threats everyday, we can take a couple of weeks off. I recommend it for everyone. Lighten up and live. Life is for our enjoyment and so much of our lives we do not take the time and conscious effort to enjoy it. God gave us the ability to experience joy, failing to do so is a shame. He wants His children to be happy. Enjoyment is not a sin. I want my kids and grandkids to remember the wonderful times we spent together, not how hard we worked.
Thursday is filled with appointments from the 7:30 AM dentist to the 9:45 doctor to the 2:00 haircut. I may be worn out on Friday morning, but I'll have teeth and good hair! I cannot tell you how much I enjoy a roadtrip. I can never sleep the night before. More than once, we have taken off in the middle of the night and driven straight through to our destination, unable to sleep, we might as well drive! Those days are in the past, now we leave a little later, stop often and get a room half way there. But the excitement of travel still remains.
I'll check in from the beach, Ladies. Wish you were here! Love

A NEW CHALLENGE

2011-06-21T01:13:00.000-04:00

We received the phone call tonight that we have been expecting for 8 years; Mackenzie's kidney function has fallen to a critical range and the transplant procedure begins. Her kidneys are only functioning at 11%, much worse than we thought from her lab work. She is upset, angry, scared, mostly scared. Mack has very rare blood type, B-, only 3% of the population has this. But the donor doesn't necessarily need to have B-, just negative. That makes the odds of a match within the family better. I cannot donate because of the Lupus, Stephen King and her other grandmother are borderline too old and her other papaw has only one kidney, he donated the other to his younger brother years ago. Odd to have two people in the family needing transplants, but her uncle's disease was not the same as the Weggners which struck Mack. We all feel that Courtney will be the match and she is being tested today in OZ. The doctor thinks if we find a family donor, the surgery can take place in 2-3 months, so Mack could be recovering by the Holidays. A much better Holiday than last with Madeleine having her heart surgery in early December and both girls in Rileys for the whole Christmas break. We are blessed they had such good results then, but Christmas in a hospital stinks!
We were all at Stephen and Shawn's tonight for Caleb's 8th birthday party. The phone call put a damper on the festivities for a brief time, but we all knew we had to celebrate this sweet boy. He has been so excited about his big day that I took him to WalMart, yes me in that place, two weeks ago to pick out his gifts. He chose them, I purchased them, we took them home to a closet for safe keeping and he got them out tonight to open! He was so afraid that I wouldnt go back to WalMart, we had to get them then! He knows G-ma too well.
Our niece went into labor tonight with her 5th child, yes Elaine 5th, she has two biological children and two adopted from the Congo. This little one was a surprise. Their kids are 11, 8, 3 and 2. There is so much love in that home you can feel it from the street! We know little Owen will fit right in. They were hoping for a girl, but Liv will be the lone sister among those 4 boys. She thinks that's OK, it is good to be the only princess in the land.
Only 9 days left before we leave on vacation. After tonight, we are all even more excited about going. We relax and pretend the world isn't out there waiting while we laugh and play and eat and swim and enjoy the company of our family. I am so relieved to know that we have those 2 weeks to prepare ourselves for the next few months, they will be a challenge to all of us. Most of all our Mackenzie Rose. Please, pray for strength and grace to bless us. Talk to me. Love

TIME

2011-06-14T17:37:00.000-04:00

Hi Ladies, another Saturday almost over. The weekends fly by, don't they? Our guys are building decks today around the pools at each house. Stephen King tries to keep up with his sons as they both try to stay a step ahead of the old man. It is heart-warming to watch them all look out for each other. Shawn and I took the littles to see KungFoo Panda, another 3D adventure. They aren't made for adults, my eyes feel pulled out of socket watching through those glasses and my stomach turns with each scene change. I don't think the rocking chair in the theater helps either. G-ma loves a rocker, but really now in a theater?
Our Jill lost her mother again this week. I say again because the loss came a few years ago when Alzheimers struck this lively lady. I remember Jill talking about the changes she was seeing, the confusion, the crankiness, the strange person showing up in her mom's place. I remember thinking that they were losing her a little each day. The last year has been very difficult for Jill, her sister and father, as their loved one has been replaced by someone who doesn't recognise them or even herself.
My dad had several strokes in the years before he left us, and I thought then that my dad was not my dad anymore. So much that made him unique was taken with each incident, by the time he suffered the big stroke which would take his life, there was . I supposed Jill felt the same about her mom. My mother has early onset Alzheimers now, good days and bad days, you never know what you are getting. Mom is pretty good most days, cannot remember the day before, but ready for a new one. But somedays she sits on the couch in her pajamas and stares. She refuses to do anything, fussing when you attempt to make her eat or move. She seems to be lost, looking inside for something she had, but has misplaced. I wonder if she is looking for Dad or herself, maybe. Oh, she loses things, too; jewelry, purses, books, hearing aides and the notebook we check-in on as we visit her. This was to help her keep track of who had been there. It has been in the exact same spot for nearly 2 years, but it is gone. We checked everywhere in the house, garage, yes, even the trash. No sign of the notebook. She swept her 3 day old hearing aid off the breakfast table with the toast crumbs, into her napkin, and shook it into the garbage disposal one morning this week. Mom has always been tidy to the point of washing your cup with your lips still drinking from it. Tidyness cooked her goose this time. My daughter-in-law picked the aid from the disposal in tiny pieces after Mom complained of a noise in it. We are losing Mom but cherish each minute with her now. Jill reminds us to do that.
The weather is finally blessing us with real spring days of late. I love 75 and sunny. And that is what we have had this week. Storms brewing tonight and hazy, hot and humid returning for the weekend, but I am grateful for these right now. I've had my first at-home all day day. And I cleaned bookshelves. Now that doesn't sound like much, but you haven't seen my book shelves, probably. Books, mail, cards, fabric, nail polish, meds, pencils, sea shells, stones?, pictures, water glasses, eye glasses, coffee cups. And a few stale Fritos. But how clean and neat they are now. why at this rate my entire house will be clean before I turn 75. How do we amass so much? Paper, paper everywhere, I hate it. I think I will stop the mail delivery to our home, just cut it off before it gets here. Nip it in the bud! I read on a Kindle now, but still have books and more books, I overcame my magazine addiction(somewhat), but still they sneak in. I'm way behind in sending birthday cards, yet my sweet friends still honor me with their good wishes from Hallmark. We pay our bills online, still the utility companies send paper statements. Junk mail is trashed without opening, and the offers for weird items still fill our box. Paper, paper everywhere. OK, where was I?
Oh, by the way, it is now Tuesday evening and I have to run to the kitchen and pretend to be slaving over supper for Stephen King. He is at Trent's working on their new pool deck again. It is going to be such a nice addition to their home. He is much more conscientious about the daughters-in- law having finished products than he is for my projects, but that's fine. I am too, only the best for our girls, right?
Only 16 days until this group heads south and I'm getting antsy, Ladies. Talk to me.

A New Beginning

2011-06-04T20:49:00.000-04:00

As of yesterday, "I am retired." It feels strange to say that and I imagine come August it will feel stranger not to be among the workforce. Back to school has been such a part of my summers for so long, I wonder how it will be to not return. I hope to enjoy a nice long summer before finding out! I am excited for this summer despite the extreme heat we are experiencing. We have lots of plans for family trips, visits and home improvements. Stephen King is willing to take some short roadtrips with me to places we have visited before and even some new spots we have always wanted to see. Of course, a reduction in gas prices would help those trips be more frequent, but probably not gonna happen.
Our Mackenzie got the word from her nephrologist that we will be meeeting with the transplant team next visit to Riley Hospital. He assured her that doesn't mean a transplant is imminent, just sometime in the near future. We have all known this was coming, but just like Dr. Draper's "elephant in the room" we don't discuss a timeframe. Mack is showing some anger at this right now. She has handled her illness with dignity and poise for so long, but hasn't decided how to deal with this latest announcement. She is focusing on our Florida trip in July with so much eagerness, it cannot get here soon enough. She will be staying the whole two weeks this year. Last year her family had to leave after 8 days so Mom and Dad could return to work. Mom isn't working now and Dad will go back to Indiana with Stephen King after the first week. Yes, HE has decided he might just come along this time. Of course, that is subject to change!
The kids are doing well overall, the boys are growing into big guys, no sign of babyness left there at all. They are full of themselves; Cabe is such a storyteller, I do believe he will write or be on stage and Gavin is a thinker, a questioner, asking "what if" about everything. I have always been partial to little boys and these two are no exception. They can just grin at me and I melt. Gavin is taking tennis lessons this month and I'm excited to see how that turns out. I'll be taking him a few days and plan to stay and watch him learn. He is alot like me and his dad, as children we were somewhat awkward physically. Clumsy, maybe in my case. Gavin is long limbed and tall and frequently gets tied up. Tennis will be good for him, I wish we had offered lessons to Trent at his age. Caleb is playing baseball this summer, but spends most of his time talking to his team mates or the fans in the stands. Is there anything cuter than a first grader in a catcher's mask? He has to take it off to talk, it is so big on him. At that age, games are entertainment not competion. I laugh through all 7 innings.
Madeleine is growing up too, she is moody and becoming a preteen. Scary! Her silence is deeper, but not as frequent, she argues now, a new thing for her. And must have the last word, even though it is usually said under her breathe while she glares. Where did sweet Maddie go? I always assumed she would not be as affected by teen angst...wrong, Gma, wrong. She followed her dad up a 35 foot ladder to the roof of their 2 story house last week. Stephen in his work boots, Madd in her flipflops, Stephen wearing safety harness, Madd wearing her glasses! She is so quiet, he had no idea she was behind him until he stepped on the roof and looked around. Smiling her smirky grin, Maddie says, "I'm going to help you, Daddy". Now, our oldest is a big man, 6"7' but he is afraid of heights and chickens (no chickens on the roof, thank goodness) and he about fell off when he saw her standing at the top of that ladder. It ended well with no injuries and was so typical of Maddie. The child has no fear. Heart surgeries, heights, even chickens can't slow her down.
A lot of my time will now be spent with Mom. She is a surprise every day. Some days she answers the phone sounding like Mom, other days she is someone we do not recognise, old, confused and scared. Mostly good days though! My sister and I will divide up duties, as well as spend time together with Mom, the three amigos. We were inseparble when our kids were growing up, doing everything as a group. Our brother, Rob, wa a surprise baby and is only 10 months older than Stephen, so all three of us had kids together. Rob, Stephen, Trent, Josh, Courtney, Stori, Joe and then later Michael. Our sister-in-law, Carol was always there, too with her babes. We were blessed to all be so close. The cousins are more like siblings and continue their relationships as adults. Courtney's move to Australia and Joe's to Chicago have made it a little difficullt, but with email and FaceBook, they chat frequently. They are all parents themselves now, except Court and Michael, the older grandkids babysit for the younger. Family is precious.
My last week of work was strangly surreal - almost as if I were already gone. I just felt tired, not real emotional at all. I'm taking that as a sign I am ready to be done with it. The work, the politics, the complaints, the tears, and the laughs, the inside jokes, the practical jokes, the caring and the kids. I've done my best to help where I could, and offer support, rational thinking and the truth to all I served. I will miss the kids, my co-workers and the everyday routine. But I know I will continue the relationships I have with those who matter most to me.
I do want to make a swing through the noth to see you all in your environment soon. Just give me time to setttle. Talk to me, Ladies.

Peace

2011-05-28T12:10:00.000-04:00

My good friend lost her nephew this week in one tragic instant the 18 month old drowned in the family pool. This is as bad as life can be for a parent, to lose a child, the baby of the family, so precious, now gone. Due to an earlier loss, this boy thought of my friend as a grandmother, she was a constant in his brief life. I can only pray for her and his other family members. Prayer is the least and the most we can do, it is the ONLY thing that helps. I came across this little memo this week which struck me with its pertinence to this tragedy:
                             Peace...it does not mean to be in a place where there i no noise, trouble or
                            hard work, it means to be in the midst of those things and still be calm in
                            your heart.

Maybe all we can pray for is peace for the family at a time like this. Pray they will find peace.

I love you all. Hedy

RANDOM THOUGHTS

2011-05-21T11:02:00.000-04:00

THESE DAYS A THOUGHT LASTS ABOUT 3 SECONDS IN MY HEAD BEFORE SEEKING FREEDOM OUTSIDE. I CANNOT CONCENTRATE ON ANYTHING, THOUGHTS SWIRL AS IF MY BRAIN IS EQUIPPED WITH A BLENDER. THE MUSHY GOOP POURS FROM MY MOUTH, PEOPLE STARE, STUDENTS GIGGLE, I LAUGH AT MYSELF. I PRAY THIS STOPS WITH RETIREMENT! I PRAY I WILL SOON BE NORMAL AGAIN. I PRAY I HAVEN'T WAITED TOO LONG TO RETIRE. I PRAY THE DAMAGE ISN'T PERMANENT. hehehehe
I FEEL THAT THIS IS THE BEGINNING OF THE FOURTH PART OF MY ADULT LIFE; I'VE BEEN A CHILD AT HOME WITH MY PARENTS AND SIBLINGS, I'VE BEEN A STAY-AT-HOME MOM, I'VE BEEN A NON-TRADIONAL STUDENT AND PROFESSIONAL WITH A CAREER AND NOW...I'M GOING TO BE HOME ALONE WITH STEPHEN KING FOR THE FIRST TIME SINCE I WAS 18 YEARS OLD. JUST THE TWO OF US, LIKE NEWLY-WEDS IN OUR 60S. SOMETHING TELLS ME IT WON'T BE EXACTLY THE SAME AS THE FIRST TIME. WE WILL BE MARRIED 45 YEARS THIS DECEMBER. IMPOSSIBLE FOR ME TO BELIEVE THAT STATEMENT, EVEN AS I WRITE IT. IN MY HEART I FEEL SO MUCH LOVE FOR HIM, JUST LIKE THEN. ONLY DIFFERENT. BACK THEN I COULD NOT HAVE IMAGINED HOW CARING HE WOULD BE, OR HOW MUCH RESPECT I WOULD HAVE FOR HIM AFTER A LIFETIME TOGETHER. I COULDN'T FORESEE THE JOY OUR KIDS AND GRANDKIDS WOULD BRING HIM OR HOW MUCH TENDERNESS HE WOULD SHOW MY AILING MOM.
I'M HOPING THAT WE CAN LIVE MORE SIMPLY NOW. I WANT TO "GO TO HOUSEKEEPING" AGAIN. IT BROUGHT SUCH JOY TO BE A GOOD HOUSEKEEPER BACK IN THE DAY. ROUTINE CHORES KEEP ONE SANE, I THINK. GOOD MEALS, LAUNDERED CLOTHES AND A CLEAN HOUSE CREATE A SAFE, WARM HOME FROM WHICH TO FACE THE WORLD. I HAVEN'T FALLEN TO FILTHY YET, BUT I HAVEN'T BEEN INVOLVED WITH MY HOME FOR YEARS. I KEEP THE WORST OUT AND MY DAUGHTER-IN-LAW CLEANS ONCE A MONTH. I WANT TO DEEP CLEAN AND REARRANGE FURNITURE AND HANG NEW CURTAINS. I WANT TO BAKE BREAD, CAN VEGETABLES AND GROW FLOWERS. I WANT TO PIECE A QUILT AND FINISH IT IN THE SAME YEAR. WILL I? THAT REMAINS TO BE SEEN. I MAY BE A SLACKER AND FEED HIM CEREAL AND BECOME A HOARDER. BUT I DON'T THINK SO!
MY GIRLS FROM SCHOOL HAD A SURPRISE PARTY FOR ME AT THE COUNTRY CLUB THIS WEEK. I WAS SO TOUCHED BY THEIR EFFORT. I LOVE THE CLUB HOUSE. IT IS AN OLD PLACE FILLED WITH CHARACTER, HIGH CEILINGS, WONDERFUL WOODWORK, BEAUTIFUL SCENERY AND WE ATE ON THE COVERED PORCH!!! MY FAVORITE PLACE IN FRENCH LICK. THIS GROUP OF LADIES IS PARTIULARLY SPECIAL TO ME; SOME WERE THERE WHEN I STARTED WORK, SOME I'VE KNOW SINCE WE WERE YOUNG MOMS TOGETHER, BUT MOST ARE "MY GIRLS". LOVELY LADIES HIRED ESPECIALLY FOR MIDDLE SCHOOL, YOUNG ENOUGH TO BE MY DAUGHTERS AND WE HAVE SHARED ENOUGH OVER THE YEARS TO BE FAMILY. THESE ARE THE ONES I WILL MISS EVERYDAY WITH RETIREMENT. STACY - I KNEW BEFORE SHE WAS BORN! AND HER'S WAS THE FIRST CLASS I WORKED WITH AT VALLEY, I HIRED HER TO RUN THE SUMMER PROGRAM WHEN SHE WAS IN COLLEGE, HER THREE KIDS ARE LIKE MY GRANDCHILDREN, AND NOW SHE'S MY BOSS! JESSIE, KRISTINA, TERESA, KARI ARE IN AND OUT OF MY OFFICE CONSTANTLY THROUGHOUT THE DAY, AS I AM IN THEIR CLASSROOMS. RITA AND HOPE, MY SISTERS IN LIFE. THE UPS AND DOWNS, JOYS AND TEARS WE HAVE SHARED ARE UNENDING. BRENDA AND CHARLA WERE MY RIGHT HAND FOR YEARS, SAVING MY BUTT ON SO MANY OCCASIONS. KNOWING WHEN TO OPEN WINDOWS FOR MY 10:00 HOT FLASH, MANAGING MY UNMANAGABLE COMPUTER NEEDS AND A SCHEDULE FROM HELL. JILL, MY OTHER SON'S WIFE AND MY DEAR FRIEND. SHE IS THE MOTHER TO MY SPECIAL KIDS AT SCHOOL AND TO TWO MIRACLES OF LIFE AT HOME. THIS FAMILY MEANS MORE TO ME THAN I CAN EXPRESS. AND CONNIE, MY SOUL SISTER, THELMA TO MY LOUISE! WE HAVE SHARED MORE OF EACH OTHERS LIVES THESE PAST 19 YEARS THAN I SHARED WITH ANYONE. SHE HAS TAUGHT ME SO MUCH ABOUT MYSELF; HOW TO BE ASSERTIVE, HOW TO SEE WITHOUT ROSE-COLORED GLASSES, AND HOW TO MANAGE SURVIVAL WITH DIGNITY. I WILL CONTINUE MY RELATIONSHIP WITH ALL OF THEM, BUT I KNOW IT WILL NOT BE THE SAME. WE AREN'T GOING TO HAVE THE DAY-TO-DAY SUPPORT, THE CRAZY, SHARED ADVENTURES OF EDUCATION IN INDIANA, THE DAILY WORDLESS EXCHANGES WHICH HAVE TIED US SO CLOSELY TOGETHER. I WILL MISS PAINFULLY MISS THEM ALL.
BUT WHAT I WILL BE GAINING IN EXCHANGE IS A BLESSING. I WILL BE AT HOME! I WILL HAVE TIME WITH MY MOM AND MY SISTER, MY FAMILY AND STEPHEN KING. I HAVE BEEN MISSING FROM THEIR LIVES FOR YEARS, I KNOW. I WANT TO GO BACK TO BEING THE OLDEST DAUGHTER, THE BIG SISTER, THE G-MA AND THE WIFE. I WANT TO FLY TO OZ AND WITNESS MY DAUGHTER'S NEW LIFE.
IMAGINE LADIES, I'VE BEEN GIVEN A CHANCE TO HAVE IT ALL AND IT'S ALL GOOD! ALL THE TIME. TALK TO ME, LOVE

The Times...They are A Changin'

2011-05-10T13:54:00.000-04:00

Good Morning Ladies, strange that I can find the time to blog while sitting at my work desk! Must be retiring soon :-) . I think I'm so covered up with work to finish, I don't know where to start. June 3 is coming soon, sooner than I thought it would. I've been invited to the Board meeting tonight (to be recognized) some of them will need me to wear a name tag! I plan to explain why they need to replace me, as opposed to just absorbing my position, remain calm and walk out with my head high and my dignity in tact. That's my plan; the reality may be a little more messy! My vice principal told me recently he plans to go into the classrooms next year and talk to them about respect. What a concept! Did you other counselors get that? Apparently he will use his "MagicWand" and make it happen. If you get my drift. I love this guy, he's a decent man. a great dad, a good administrator. But if he really thinks talking respect to middle school students is all it takes, God Help Him! Must be the Penis talking.
Alison. you know all our thoughts and prayers will be with you Friday. " A shot and a sheet". Really? Put me to sleep, then cut into my chest, Buddy. Hope this little surgery doesn't mess up your bikini line, Girl. I have something called fibrous dysplasia in my bones, which caused the scare when our boys were babies. Janelle had the extra tissue mass in the winter. Maybe we all just got a little extra. Just our luck, huh? I hope to get up north and see you all this summer. I missed my Baby time with Caleb this spring. Cannot wait to hold him for the first time, Elaine. I may just set up camp in your yard and hold court for a few days. Rocking the baby, baking cookies for the kids, mixing salsa and drinks for the adults. I miss you all.
Stephen King is putting out his garden in between floods. Potatoes and more tomato plants going in today. Rain not supposed to get here till 4:00. We only get 1-2 sunny days a week and have to take advantage when they come. I want to get my planters filled this week, but have to power wash porches first. We are beginning to mold in the Valley, everything has an icky, sticky surface on it. I think I'll do ferns on my front porch this year. What do you think? Last time I had ferns, I had birds' nests in them. It was neat to watch the eggs and hatchlings. All of a sudden, I'm loving birds and their songs. Shore birds and chickens have always been my favorites, but now the area songbirds are making me smile. Wish I could recognize their songs, but I am getting better at idenifying them by sight. Simple pleasures are what keep us going. Don't overlook them while waiting for the big things to happen.
My words are hiding from me right now. I need to hear from you all. Talk to me. Love

What In The World?

2011-05-02T12:47:00.000-04:00

Hello Ladies, I seem to have been lost in space recently. Time certainly gets away when we are busy, doesn't it? I'm sorry to have missed you all at Gagglefest, I know it was a great time. My Mom is doing much better the last week or so. She seems more like herself. Our girls are doing well, Maddie is back to normal and Kenz is doing ok on the new meds. School is crazy, flooding keeps us closed or delayed several days this spring. Today is one of them; early dismissal at 10:00 due to 4 inches last night and water flowing downstream. Apparently much faster than anticipated. ISTEP was put off last week, wonder if we can get another extension from the State. And who cares anyway?
I'm still processing the news of Osama Bin Laden being killed. What does this mean to our world? He seems to have already been replaced by other evils. I'm sure the families of the victims of 9/11 are experiencing relief of some kind. I pray for world peace each morning, feeling that between the wild weather and the economy and the world situation, peace is very elusive and much needed in all our lives.
Our Dad passed away 12 years ago yesterday. Hard to believe it has been so long. I still look for him to be sitting on the glider when I pull up their drive. My Dad was a big presence in my life, I always attempted to make him proud because he had accomplished so much in his life. He was a fatherless boy in an age where they were not accepted. Family was the most important thing in Dad's life, he made sure we never doubted how much he loved us and how special each of us were to him. Dad always treated Mom like a precious jewel, telling her how pretty she was, making sure she had anything she might think she needed. In fact, she often says she wished he hadn't always given in to her requests. As in paneling the walls in the 70s! She wallpapered over them in the 90s and regrets both actions. They spoiled each other, as the oldest of 13 children, Mom only knew how to take care of others. She took care of everything in their world; we never lacked for clean clothing, fresh food or a clean home. Dad made the living and Mom took care of everyrhing else. Growing up in that home, in that era was like a fairytale. Most kids today wouldn't recognize that kind of home. It breaks my heart to know that. I wish everyone could experience it. I'm sorry my grand children didn't have the chance to know their Grandad Bob. He loved kids and would have had a time with our wild boys and the sweet girls. I try to keep the good times in my heart and let go of the time that has passed since we lost him. I do miss you, Dad.
I've been attempting to work through all the steps to retirement! Wow, it would be easier to keep working. Everyone must be notified in advance, paperwork falls from the sky, the phone calls from people keeping records are amazing. Who knew you cannot just stop working? You have to follow the yellow brick road to retirement. So far I've talked to Dorothy and the Wicked Witch but haven't heard from the Wizard! There wasn't nearly the hassle when Stephen King retired - the State has its hands in ours lives up the wazoo, Girls. By the time you all retire, educators will be farmed out to someone else. Like everything else in Indiana.
I have mixed emotions about retiring. Love my job, love my kids, love my staff. I worry about what will happen when I am not there. I know that's ridiculous, the school will go on just like it always has. It isn't that, it's just I know the needs and expectations. I can be replaced and hope to be, but what if I'm not? These kids need an adult to make contact with them everyday, say their name, notice them, smile and laugh with them, hold them accountable for their behavior, love them. An empty office cannot do that. On the other hand, I look forward to spending long days with my Mom, my sister, my husband, my kids. I want to finish things; my quilt tops, my house, maybe write some. I want to see new places with Stephen King, revisit places with my grandkids. Talk about old times with Mom.
Our oldest grandson begins a new time in his life soon. He will be gone from us for a long while. He is paying for his bad decisions in a way we cannot imagine. He seems to have accepted this and looks forward to gaining what he can from this time. I pray he returns to us a new version of the boy we love. He will be in my heart and prayers each day. He deserves a chance at life.
The girls and I have chosen our summer escape and will wait till July to go this year. The kiddos are excited about Fourth of July fireworks on the beach. All the little towns on the Cape have celebrations so we should see a nice display. Hopefully from our deck! But we may have to drive to town. We love Cape San Blas. It is so quiet and non-commercial. You feel like you are at home in the small towns. There are no highrises, no tourist traps, plenty of good restaurants, neat shops and beautiful beaches. Sssshhhhush, don't tell anyone about this paradise.
So many changes in the Gaggle; Kendra is walking aready, Janelle and Alison have had their health scares, Caleb has been born and I'm sure someone else is planning a baby. I hope to see and hear from each of you soon. I miss you all. Talk to me. Love

Choices

2011-04-07T16:16:00.000-04:00

We all make choices everyday, some with little thought or consequence and others that require more consideration and carry heavier costs. I made a choice on Friday. I had the opportunity to join some wonderful women in Indy for a reunion of sorts. These are my Gaggle, those bright, caring, incredibly busy young women who allow me to share a tiny place in their lives. From the first few weeks of grad school, we bonded into a close knit group of serious students, high achievers and fun spirits. I was in my late 50s, Anna and Kirstie were barely 25, the others were scattered around 30. As unlikely as it was, we became the Gaggle. And all through the ups and downs of grad school, we supported, listened to, cried and celebrated with each other. We lost family, had babies, had health issues, but we all stood by, strong and ready. I love each of these ladies as if she were my own child. I've attempted to be there for all the gagglefests, all the weddings and the babies. This weekend, however, I had a bigger issue. Our mom has Alzheimers and my sister provides 99% of her care since my brothers and I have outside jobs. This weekend she was going to Chicago to visit her youngest son and his family which includes her youngest grandchild. She can count the number of times she has been with them since his birth and looks forward to spending precious hours there. Mom is at the point where she needs monitoring regularly throughout the day to ensure meds and meals are taken. I had to choose to go to Indianapolis or stay with my mother. No contest. I love the time I spend with Mom but it is emotionally exhausting. I seriously do not know how my sister does it, day after day. She isn't the same person who raised me, but she is sweet and loving still and just wants the attention of her kids. Our parents never had close friends, the family was all they wanted. We knew our parents loved us without a doubt. They spoiled each of us with attention and love, now we get to repay that love.
Besides...I had had Spring Break in the most amazing house on the beach! My room faced the Gulf and had a sweet balcony with a sweet wicker couch and a down throw where I spent my most of my time. This was the best weather we have had for Spring Break ever. Each day was better than the one before. And the evenings were beautiful, the moon was full and the moonlight reflected on the waves like silver. I went out on the balcony at midnight and watched this display, not believing my luck. How blessed we are to get to experience such a wonder. I came back to my real life revived.
We are down to the last grading period, the end of school is fast approaching and we are busy! The dullness that is February and March is gone and the hurry of spring is here. Scheduling is almost finished, ISTEPs are coming again, case conferences are almost daily, 4 today!, and I'm counting down the days till retirement.
Besides spending time with Mom and my kids, I want to work on our house and yard. Each room needs some fluffing, but the bath and kitchen have to go. Even Stephen King realizes that it is way past cosmetic repair. The tub, sink and flooring are shot. I want a stand alone shower, no tub, an antique chest for the vanity and tile flooring and walls. The only thing salvageble is the schoolhouse ceiling light. I'm thinking black and white. No surprise there! The kitchen is a different story. Some folks see no problem with fake cutting board counters and 1980s gold vinyl floors, but I do. Plus my kitchen sink faces a wall, not a window. In all my houses, the kitchen has been my room. Now I share with Stephen King, he cooks some, does most of the dishes and most of his own laundry in that ugly kitchen. He can take it, I cannot. I want warm, cosy, efficient, clean. None of which can be used to describe our kitchen. The cupboards are original from 1924, but strong and sturdy. I'm willing to repaint and get countertops, the ceiling is nearly 10 feet high and I love that. The rest of the room must go, 3 rooms actually. A tiny mudroom/laundry and nice big pantry open onto the kitchen. I'd like to open them all up into one big room. One would think with a carpenter husband and two carpenter sons, I would be living in a castle. One would be wrong. Like the cobbler's children and their lack of shoes, I am often the one needing a new roof, floor, door, etc. I'm thinking since I will have 24 hours a day to nag Stephen King about the kitchen when I retire, we might get it done! But I won't hold my breath, he can usually outlast me and seems to have a deaf ear to nagging.
I invite all of you to visit Summer Nail Photography on FaceBook to see the redhaired vision that is our Mackenzie in her Prom Dress! This child lives in sweats, is entirely low-maintanence yet her buddy captured her Teen Idol Self in these snapshots. They were playing with hairstyles and dresses and I must say captured a side of Mack never seen!. Summer is a professional photographer locally who should be taking shots for the gossip mags, I think. Check it out.
Gotta go, we may are taking the kiddos to see HOP this week and I have to check if tonight is it. Grandkids are so busy, we have to schedule outings now. Talk later. Love

COUNTDOWN TO TOO MUCH FUN

2011-03-21T16:18:00.000-04:00

Monday is history, thank goodness, it was a nasty one. Only 3.5 days till we break away for Gulf Shores. Anyone up for the trip? Come along, we haven't secured a house yet, planning to get a last minute deal OR sleep on the beach! And then when we get back...Gagglefest on the 1st. So happy we are doing this. So many things have taken place since our last reunion. Anna is Mrs. Clark, Caleb is here, Janelle is too! YAY. God is good, Ladies.
Courtney turned 36 yesterday in OZ. This is the 3rd birthday she has had downunder. I bet no one made a strawberry cake to celebrate her day. She may not eat strawberry cake now, but always asked for one while growing up. The boys liked pies better, but Court always wanted strawberry cake with pink icing. Even the year she turned 6 and only wore lavender, (even her glasses) she had to have her pink cake. Yep, she was a girly girl back then, once refusing to wear anything but dresses for a year. Then her pink stage, no clothing that wasn't pink. But by the time she hit 6th grade it was jeans, sweatshirts and Chuck Taylor hightops. Now it is gypsy skirts and sandals.
OK< I fell into a trance, I guess. It is now March 21 and I'm sitting on my deck watching dolphins jump from the Gulf of Mexico. Not in OC, in Gulf Shores, AL. Three friends and I are here till Friday on Spring Break. Beautiful weather, terrific house and great company What more can I say? This year we have a couple of smallfry companions, Jake a 5 year old and Bella, 20 months came along with their mommas. They have been a treat.
Our house is so close to the water this year and is a beautiful place. My room is a large 2nd floor master with its own bath and balcony. I've been spending my days on that balcony reading and watching the boats, dolphins and sea birds. It is amazing how the sights and sounds of the coast can lift the weight of the world from my shoulders and blow the cotton floss from my head. I rarely get in the water, but the ocean has such an attraction for me...I've decided I must have been a mermaid in a former life! Or possibly a whale, hehehe. Deb, my sister, has the same draw toward the desert. Maybe our parents picked us up on a cross country trip! The desert frightens me with its endless open horizon, one of the things I love about the coast. Strangely, I feel exposed in the desert and secure at the coast. It must be me, that makes no sense.
I'm happy to hear that OC is having nice warm temps, too. We, as the rest of the country, have suffered a long, gray, cold winter. I hope each of our students gets to be outside enjoying the warmth and expending some pent up energy. We have eight short weeks left of school, with lots of activities going on. I want to finish on a happy note. This is my last year of being a school counselor and I'd love to leave feeling good about the job I've done here. I know I will miss the kids, the staff and working. I'm ready for something else in my life.
Back to work now, doing the dolphin watch till dinner tonight at Tacky Jacks. A new one for us. I'll let you know what's good. Love

Happy 17th Mackenzie

2011-03-07T19:54:00.000-05:00

Today is our grand daughter, Mackenzie Rose's 17th birthday. March 6. She was just past one year old when she began saying, "two March 6" to everybody. We laughed and laughed at the tiny little redhead holding up 2 stubby fingers and denying being just one. Kenzie was such a strong minded little one then, we should have known it would serve her well as the years passed and brought health crisis after crisis; Kenz holds strong through it all. Just this week, she told her nephrologist that she was not spending her 17th birthday in Rileys, she may have been tricked into Christmas there, but not her own special day. Promising to eat and drink, to endure yet another injection this week and more labs next, Kenz came home.
She has requested vegetable beef soup and coconut cake for her Birthday Dinner and as long as G-ma Hedy is able, she will have it. All our grandkids are special to us, each in her/his own way. Mack is the first baby I watched come into this world; I watched in awe as her red curls appeared, followed by the sweetest, round face ever. Maddie was jumping into the doctor's hands as I came around the curtain, she seemed so tiny and delicate with a tuft of blond hair and a little whimper, we couldn't know she wouldn't get much louder. Caleb, I again, was the first to see, that dark head appear, followed by an incredibly long skinny body, so different from his short, chubby sisters, he soon would teach Mom and Dad the difference, Gavin was a speeding train, beating everyone to delivery, he was such a big boy, he practically walked out, there was nothing delicate about him, he was big and tough, looking at all of his family as if to say, "where you been, I've been waiting for you. Lets play". They had me at first glance. Joseph and Shayla were 6 and 1 when they came to us. Both fit right into our family, they were our first grandchildren. Joe was automatically mine. He was so like my boys, ready to be out and gone, exploring the woods and creeks, fishing, hunting and eating his weight in goodies everyday! Shay took a little longer, she was Papaw's girl at first. She had to warm up to me, but once she did, we became inseparable. Tea parties, gardening, cooking and eating out were our favorites and still are. The years have flown so fast, I cannot believe our Mackenzie Roses is almost ready for college and the younger ones are all in school. Shayla is a beautiful young woman at 22 and is a joy for all of us. Joe is facing a big challenge right now, but I feel he will be better for it. He, like so many of his generation, has made some foolish decisions and put himself at risk for so much hurt. We pray he will be given the chance to rcover and go on toward a happy, productive life. Joseph is a sweet soul, we love him and always will.
Birthdays, weddings, funerals, all make me emotional and nostalgic for old times. If only we could have those times back, knowing what we now know, could we do better, love more, tolerate less, expect more, accept less? I sometimes wish we could. I pray I would do better. But we aren't given that gift, so I will seek the joy of my family and love them better from here forward.
It is a cold wet weekend in Southern Indiana, nothing new there! I think the beefy vegetable soup will be welcomed by the kiddos. I do wish Spring will come soon. The daffodils are up in our yard, but not blooming yet. The grass does look greener, maybe. And our ewes are lambing again. We haven't had any births here at the house yet, but should this week. The field at the farm is full of new life, coming in singles and twins! I love that sheep twin so often, nothing cuter than lambies X 2.
I am adding a PS to this post. It is Monday night and another week has started, not surprisingly it resembles most others; the dread of Monday morning, the loud laughter of kids in the halls, the drooping shoulders of the teachers leading their classes out into the cold gray morning for recess, the crainess that is middle school lunch. Like many Mondays before, it is almost over. BTW: Stephen King announces the birth of a fine lamb overnight here at the house. Only three or four more mommas to deliver. Spring will come, we can see the Promise in God's new creatures.
Counting the days til the Gagglefest, Ladies. Enjoy. Love

Blank Slate

2011-02-28T13:27:00.000-05:00

A blank slate to write our thoughts upon...but not a coherent thought in our head! I often have an inspiration for a post during the week; during a session with a student, a phone call with a distraught parent,a meeting with an angry administrator, a couch visit from a weary teacher or sometimes in the car with my Mom. My world is full of options for posting, I interact with a hundred people each week. The number of stories overwhelms me sometimes. Yet when I have the time to sit and process I cannot seem to pick out the nugget of inspiration to share with you. I admit to occasionally writing all my jumbled thoughts on the screen and editing later, attempting to create an interesting, honest version of my week. Usually this helps me see the real topic of the post, sometimes it just adds to my confusion on what to say. I love writing. I'm not good at it I know, but that is not important.
The writing process helps organize my thoughts and I think helps me to do better work with my kiddos and others. I also write to have a record of my days and what was going on in my head at this time. The more time I spend with my mother as she falls deeper into dementia, the more afraid I become of losing myself as she has done. Yesterday she told me she thinks," I am worse than I thought I was". We had a good afternoon shopping for Courtney and Mackenzie's birthday presents. Over two hours in one store, just like old times, Mom picking up every item, looking, judging, putting it back. Over and over throughout the store from tops to pants to jeans to jackets to sweaters to dresses and shoes. She loves shopping, the crippling back pain recedes, the clouded thoughts clear when she smells a bargain. But in the car, minutes later, she asks what we bought, remembering nothing of the afternoon. This scares me and breaks my heart. But we end our day on a happy note. Laughing about how easy it is for Mom to curl up on her nest and rest. Something that never happened in her first 80 years. She spent those years in the kitchen preparing meals, doing laundry, making her home. Most of the snapshots of Mom are in the kitchen; standing; washing dishes, washing fresh vegetables, washing delicate sweaters and lace bras, preparing her special fried chicken, potato soup, beef and noodles, corn bread. Never sitting, never resting. All those years waiting for others to come in that back door and allow her to serve them, NO, making them let her serve them. No one ever left her kitchen empty handed or empty bellied. She force fed her grandkids handmade milk shakes, cookies n milk, full meals even as after-school snacks. They all know what it means to enter Grandma Helen's kitchen. All who enter take home a baggie full of something. Now whenever they go, she is in the small TV room at the back of the house, usually asleep, always on her little nest on the couch. The kitchen is dark, the stove is cold, it doesn't feel like Grandma's anymore. But she is still there, the light in her eyes is dimmer, but still there, she still speaks of all those days, not remembering our shopping, but reliving the first 80 years.
ISTEP begins tomorrow, so I am spending today at home resting up. I test our 504 kids and That becomes an intense morning. All of them become distracted so easily and it requires awhile to settle everyone. We allow them all the time they need and some days it might be 3 hours. Ofcourse, some days it is 3 minutes and they all are finished! I enjoy working so closely with a few students at a time and most of them try so hard to do their best. This type of testing places to much sress on kids. They cannot be judged for one test on one day. There must be a better way. Trusting good teachers' judgements might be a start. These next few weeks will be an interesting time in Indiana education. Someone let the fox in the henhouse in Indy.
I've spent several hours looking a summer rentals for the family. We have such a wonderful time each year, but finding just the right home for all our needs and interests can take a little work. Have to have a private pool for the teens and little guys, need lots of open space for everyone, I need at least a view of the ocean, good restaurants within 30 minutes, a terrific grocery close by, big equiped kitchen for Nina and me, bicycles for Shay and Maddie...the list goes on and on. And amazingly, we find a perfect one each year! Cannot wait to celebrate Cabe's birthday at the beach again. He believe's the trip is an extended celebration for him! Love that little Pretty Boy, can't believe he will be 8 this summer. And my Sweetie Gavin is 6 already. My babies are growing way too fast.
Stephen King has been sick for 3 weeks, but he is on the mend today. He has plans for the next several days just to catch up on his activities. He loves retirement and does not handle illness at all. I am thrilled to see him up and out again. One body lying around the house is enough. He makes a great care iver, but a terrible patient.
I'll post this now, I've managed to fill the blank slate once again, Ladies. Hugs and kisses to Alison for organizing the Spring Gagglefest in April. Take care. Love

THE ART OF FRIENDSHIP

2011-02-18T14:13:00.000-05:00

I've spent a large portion of my day dealing with angry girls, heartbroken girls, weeping girls. Hormones run rampant in the middle school. I completely understand that. I understand that females will be at the mercy of hormones until the GREAT CHANGE OF LIFE. What I don't get is why females are so cruel to each other. Why can't we see that we are all in this together and need to be kind to each other? Why do we save our most evil words for other females? Why do we treat each other as enemies? Why, why, why? Try as I may, I cannot convince the girls to play nice with others. That will come with time, I suppose. I know my own friends are precious to me. Old school buddies have been through good times and bad together. New friends reap the bounty of wisdom gained as we grow older.
But I still remember the power friendship gave to girls, the power to betray confidences, to lie, and to exclude. I remember feeling lucky that I wasn't a victim of others when I was a kid. I witnessed the behavior of our Queen Bee and her power over so many of us. I remember the uneasy relief of watching someone else burn under her stinging words. I realize now that I just wasn't a threat to them! I was quiet, but not timid, I wasn't jealous of what they had, I didn't date from the same pool of guys. In truth they probably didn't even give my presence much thought at all. I was lucky.
We have dealt with Facebook drama all week and the worst of it comes from mean girls... mean-spirited girls who should know better. Who don't appear to care how much they hurt someone. Who stand in high school halls and spray ugly words for everyone to hear. Ugly lies about a person who used to be their friend. A friend who made the mistake of confiding secrets or fears to someone she thought of as a sister. A sister who would support and protect her secrets. Secrets which are now out there for the world to see and judge. How can one female do this to another? We are all sisters in this world and should be that support for each other, we should stand strong against the hurts and trials of the world. Instead we choose to force each other to stand alone. Oh my, I hope these girls grow up soon and learn to treasure each other.
One of my good friends, a part of my Gaggle, has faced a health threat this week. It has ended well, but the stress of "what if" was heavy. I thank God for His mercy and blessing on her. Scares such as this make us realize the truly important things in life. Best wishes, Sweetie, and a speedy recovery. This wonderful group of young women helped get me through grad school at an age when I should have been planning retirement, not a new career. Each of them has blessed me with her friendship and I cherish the opportunity of their friendships. I cannot wait for our next Gagglefest, Ladies.
The warmer weather has been such a welcomed relief this week. Hopefully, some of the awful germs will blow away with these wild winds we've been having. I've never seen such a winter for sickness, people suffer from yuck to yuck without a break. No one remains immune. Stephen King has had a cold for 2 weeks and is tired of it! No one suffers pain and illness quite like him, I'm sure. He truly hasn't been himself, too tired to even get out. He usually makes his daily rounds regardless of the weather, so I know he isn't well. Too many hours watching westerns just isn't healthy. He was going to help #3 son put up fence today, I hope he felt like it. I worry if he feels bad.
Our kiddos are doing OK this week other than the regular elementary school crud, Cabe has a stomach bug and Gavin is still sneezing. The girls are all good. Madeleine had a terrific check-up with her heart surgeon. X-rays couldn't look better! Wonderful news. She is getting her color back and has been playing outside after school with the neighborhood crowd. She loves that.
Courtney reports all is well in OZ, no flooding or cyclones in their area. She just complains of heat, something I cannt sympathize with this winter! She has her resident VISA now so will not be returning to the States for a long while. We will miss those visits every 90 days. That has been how we've accepted her moving to the other side of the world. It will be interesting to see how long the parents can survive without scheduling a flight downunder!
Have a wonderful weekend, everyone. I'm looking forward to a little sunshine on my front porch.

February-- The (hopefully) Shortest Month

2011-02-05T21:17:00.000-05:00

Let's have a moment of silent prayer for this being the shortest, mildest February ever. I do believe the past 3 months have been a sufficient notice of Who is in charge. "We get it, God. We will straighten up down here, promise."
Whenever the weather grows harsh, natural disasters happen or civil strife breaks out in the world, there are those who claim the world is coming to an end. Maybe, maybe not... No one knows for sure, no one can stop it if so, but why take a chance? God has set before us a list of rules for living. Kind of a Renter's List. We haven't abided by the list for the most part; polluting His air, water, soil, wiping out species after species of His animal kingdom, anihilating each other for centuries over color, creed, and religion, having false gods, such as Money, failing to honor our parents, lusting after our neighbors' wife, car, house, the list goes on and on. Little wonder we get edgy whenever it snows, we know we have it coming!

As a school kid in the 50s, I was so fearful of just about everything, but especially the End Of Time. I was certain each day might be our last. The Cold War years were a severe trial for me, WWIII would be an obvious way to end it all. Between my great-grandmother's fire and brimstone church and the nightly news, I cowered in bed each night praying for mercy.I was also terribly afraid of dogs, horses, carnival rides, but those are other stories.
As I've grown older and wiser, I've lost most of my fears. I can watch an electrical storm and feel confident I will not be struck by lightening. I can pet all dogs and horses without a racing heart. I've ridden more fast, spinning, dropping amusement park rides than I can count. I hate the idea of war and killing and human suffering, but I don't fear these things for myself anymore. I have faith that God knows my fate and will take care of me. Fear is the greatest crippler in life.
As far as this wild, cold weather goes, weather is a never ending cycle, out of our control. The planet we reside upon is old, older than dirt, so to speak. It has seen it all. Nothing is new to this sphere; earthquakes, cyclones, tsunamis, volcanos, floods have all been part of her past and will be part of her future. Our response should be to jump in and aid those affected by disaster, not whining. But right now, I wish for Spring.

We tend to ignore the fact that people are animals. Unless one is exposed to children before a snowstorm!! They become squirrels dropping from the trees, deer caught in the headlights staring blankly in response to any comment made by an adult, wild horses running in herds up and down the halls. Our first whole week back in school in 2011 was a jungle. We had cat fights, dope smokers, and meltdowns aplenty, food fights, weepy jocks, suicide threats and a 5 year old pulling the fire alarm...at lunch..in a rainstorm. Yes, we were back to a normal 5day school week. Animals, for sure.
All in all I have laughed more than cried this week. As my son says, "you can't make this stuff up". It happens, it is called life. I for one, wouldn't want to miss it. I wonder what I will be doing this time next year when I'm free. Will the house seem quiet and boring with just me and Stephen King? Can a few sheep and chickens replace 250 wild animals? I'm sure the Lord has His plans for my time, it will be interesting to find out what they are.

Gaggle, we just have to have a gathering this spring, I miss you all. I want to begin quilting in earnest this summer and make you all a miniature quilt to mark our friendship. My sister-in-law makes the most beautiful tiny doll quilts for her grandchild that I would love to try. Time and patience, neither of which I have now. But soon.
Next week looks to be cold and wet in southern Hoosierland, hope you all stay safe and warm. Hedy

Wishing Away Winter

2011-01-28T14:27:00.000-05:00

Is anyone else over this weather? I can generally tolerate some snow and a little wintery weather, but really! We might as well be living in Alaska this year. Except for the scary former governor, of course. Wait, we do have Mitch...equally scary, maybe. Oh, yeah, this is not a political blog. Promise. It's just that I'm an old hippy-type and right-wingers scare me and I'm a touchy, feely social worker and meanness bothers me. Stepping off the soapbox now.
This was the year I was going to forego my SpringBreak trip South. But really, not after these temperatures and that amount of snow. I need the sun, for medical reasons. I'm sure my docs would prescribe a trip to warm sunny climes if pressed. I have never suffered from SDA, but can now say I really understand those who do. Gray is just not a good color for the environment, even with a base of deep white snow. The sun is life giving, promising, warming. Humans don't operate well without sun in their life. Hearts slow to barely life-sustaining rates, moods plummet to soul-wrenching depths. The sun has the power to raise moods, hopes and inspire happy thoughts. Even the milky white haze of the sun through clouds is enpough to make us smile and feel better. The blinding glare of the sun on all this snow brings on giddiness or the rare times we've seen it.
Our girls are doing well this week. It is a week by week thing for Mackenzie, I'm afraid. The medication which they are going with for the lungs will undoubtedly cause more damage to the kidneys, but does and amazing job on her breathing. The docs tell us the kidneys are goners and we have to save the lungs. Such an extreme trade-off. Maddie is back to being Maddie! Homework is something she will avoid at all costs and she is not above "forgetting" to bring it home. Not a habit we want her to develop. She is very strong willed and her communication disorder complicates so many areas of her life. Being ill has given her an unfair advantage over the adults recently!
Our house was stricken by the stomach bug this week; Stephen King looked at me like I had brought in the plague everytime he rushed to the bathroom! Middle schoolers are so good about sharing, they want everyone to have what they have, and all 250 of them shared with me. Oh My. We had a very successful first semester, academically speaking here in the Valley. All involved have kicked it up a notch; students and teachers alike. I am proud to see so many Top Hawks recognized with a day at our local water park. Nearly 50% celebrated one afternoon when we returned to school after Christmas break. We award MVP t-shirts to the most enthusiastic student in each department every semester and this time I had to order 39 shirts. Love celebrating/acknowledging learning!
I'm wishing my life away, to quote my Mom, but I do wish this school year was over. I suppose it is because of my illness and knowing I'm retiring, but I feel as if I have nothing else to contribute here. I hate the thought of leaving, yet feel as if I'm already gone. Maybe just "senioritise". Maybe an attempt to protect myself from the pain of separating from a life I've lived for 20 years.
There is so much to do. With each day, I think of more and more that has to be done before I can walk away and leave this to someone else. Ending a job is almost as full of "to dos" as beginning one! I remember having a list of things for every month my first year. Things that only happen once a year, but have to be done EVERY year. After all this time they are done without thinking, but whoever replaces me will need to know what, how and when of each activity. And we all know, I love lists! I use the same journal to make lists of holiday menus, birthday presents, Christmas lists, etc. It is amusing to go back and see how little by little our families taste in food changed, our kids interests evolved and technology zoomed ahead. For example; Christmas 2000 Shayla got a CD player, fast forward to Christmas 2009 Shay got a laptop, Christmas 2010 Maddie got an ipod Touch. Our food preferences went from years of Christmas turkey to a standing rib the last few years. My lists have marked the coming and going of loved ones and "not loved anymore" ones, of stilled loved and missed. Courtney has chosen Australia as home and hasn't spent Holidays with us, so we make do and celebrate each day she is here. One day her Ken will join her in a visit and our family gatherings will grow again. We have been so blessed to have the kids close and with technology, we don't feel the distance to OZ quite like we might have 20 years ago.
OK, back to lists... I make a list most mornings. I get such satisfaction when I can check off item after item of completed chores! Or in reality, at least 1 thing from a 50 item list. Lists are my tool for organizing my life; I cannot start a project, a big meal, a trip, a DAY without a list. Making a list pulls my random thoughts together and lays out the plan of action. Do this, then that, proceed on to the other. Ahhh, Bliss when a list is complete.
Excuse me, break is over... my list says Time to find the misssing locker key, check on Billy Bob's homework and make sure all the Lists have been recorded. HEHEHE! Enjoy your weekend, Everyone.

FUN AND GAMES OR SMOKE AND MIRRORS???

2011-01-18T16:12:00.000-05:00

Just gotta love being back to work and realizing it never changes! Each evening I pray for a better tomorrow. Most days are a repeat of the one before or are even crazier, somehow. Maybe it is time I stop hanging out with the middle school kids. Maybe it is them not me. I have loved my job from day one, even though 12-15 year olds were not my favorite aged people. I found a home with them and realized they were OK. But keeping up with them at 60+ is different than when I was 40. THEY WEAR ME OUT! Physically, mentally and emotionally...especially emotionally. Only 220 more days and I'm out.
Our girls are doing better. Both have returned to school and appear to be as near to normal as possible. Mackenzie has an appointment with her doctors on Thursday, so we will know more then. She would love to finish her junior year before a transplant. Hopefully, that will be the way it goes for her. Mack has a very stoic attitude towards her health. She remains both optimistic and realistic, living day by day with faith that she will be fine. I admire her so much for being able to hold fast to her faith when I am so full of questions and concerns about her future. She has her dress picked out for Prom, just needs Mom's approval. It is so hard to imagine that our little redhead is nearly 17 and will be going to lots of Proms and dances and parties in the coming years. Grandma has wonderful memories of Tea Parties with Mack and Shay wearing aprons and setting the tea table with fresh picked flowers. They would drink tiny cups of milk flavored with a teeny bit of tea and sugar, tiny cookie and fruit slices. Sometimes there were fancy hats involved and high heeled shoes! Funny how tea parties were never something I did with Madeleine. While Mack and Shayla would pretend to be fancy grown-up ladies, Maddie would look at me and ask for just cookies and milk. She sees everything in concrete and has little patience for imaging. I've made numerous attempts to engage her with Fairy Stories. But she looks at me and says, "No thanks". She tries to be kind in her rejection of my ideas, but secretly rolls her eyes at my silliness. Maddie is a special blessing to all of us.
Southern Indiana has had its share of weather issues this winter. We are waiting for the latest snow storm to blast through here on Thursday. The students are jumpy are cats, anticipating snow-days, sleeping in and playing in the cold, wet stuff. Teaching is morphed into herding during these days. It takes only a snap to set one of them off on a fork-wielding tirade against someone talking across the lunch table. Another tosses orange peeling and cherry juice over his buddy, "just for fun". The girls are the real challenge, throwing LOOKS at everyone; friend and enemy alike. No one likes the LOOKS, especially the adults in charge. Reasoning with someone who has the power to LOOK at you is a task for a super hero, not a mere mortal. I spend as much time counseling and consoling teachers as I do students. I'm getting the cape! A nice big one to hide from the world, Black with Queen of the World in big letters.
When I am QOW, things will be different. Everyone...everyone from insurance clerks to special education co-op staff will do his/her job. Just the job, no more no less. I do believe if we all just did what we are hired to do the world would revolve on a much better axis. Who is that person who fails to notice the signature form has been completed and the boxes all have the appropriate checks in them? Sorry, the cold, gray weather has me grouchy. Or something. I am sure my doctor will cheer me up tomorrow when he explains how much improved his meds have made me! Or else explains again why nausea is to be expected with chemo, "it shows it's working". Or not.
I am looking past this trial of weather, wild kids, poor health towards Spring. It will return and we will celebrate. Green leaves, grass, and blooms. Hang in there, everyone. Hedy

NEW YEAR.....ANOTHER OPPORTUNITY

2011-01-05T20:15:00.000-05:00

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!! WE ARE BACK FROM OUR SELF IMPOSED BLOGGING BREAK. Actually the break wasn't so much self-imposed as my body forced me into it. I spent September and October in bed with a severe Lupus flare up and an infection in my head. Back to work part-time in November and in December our grand daughter's kept us in Riley Childrens Hospital. Happy to report we all are doing much better; I'm back full-time, Mack is back to school and Madeleine is home re-cuperating. I'm retiring at the end of this school year, so if I can make it for 18 more weeks, we are good!
Madeleine had to have open heart surgery on the 3rd and was home on the 8th. The next week went well for her and then she developed pneumonia. Shawn took Mackenzie along for a visit with her pulmonologist and she was admitted, along with Maddie. Maddie had turned out to be a collection of blood in the bottom of her lung and under went another surgery to remove that. A painful ordeal for her and she was slow in recovering. Mack was given breathing treatments and IV antibiotics for 9 days. She is remarkably improved. The disease appears to have progressed from her kidneys to her lungs, causing real breathing issues. She has labs each week to determine the status of her kidneys and a transplant is expected before too long. Her doctors are less optimistic than Mack is about this; she has surprized them for 8 years and plans on continuing!
Our other kiddos are terrific; Caleb, Gavin and Shayla are happy and healthy, PTL, to quote Mack. Caleb is a first grader who likes learning and likes sharing his thoughts even more. He continues to be like his father, a real story teller. His big, beautiful brown eyes have saved his hide more than once over some of his tales. Gavin, the wise one, loves kindergarten, makes friends easily and is knowing beyond his years. He has the vocabulary of an adult and is a joy to listen to. He is naive and innocent and loves the world. On the other hand, he can meltdown into a raging mess if crossed. Also a trait of his father's. Our beautiful grandsons are such a conglomeration of our sons, often displaying traits of dad, then uncle until we wonder who is who. Being with these two characters is a joy in my life.
Shayla is an adult now, at 22, she is a beautiful young woman. Quiet and loving, Shay's heart is as big as the world. She feels the pain of everyone and is the most caring person I know. She has been spending most of her winter with her other grandma, helping her with a bad hip. As long as Shay has her cellphone and ipod, she is a happy camper. She has worried herself to death over Maddie and Mack's illnesses, checking everyday for any news. She nurtures us all. I miss our Saturdays together and hope to get back to them asap. For now she is much too busy.
Our grandson, Joe, struggles with life, but we aren't giving up on him. Sometimes it takes a long while for us to grow up and into who we want to become. I have faith he will.
Stephen King continues to love retirement and fills his days with "piddling around". Never, ever boring, he claims. I hope to travel a bit when both of us are retired, but really don't know if he will have time. We are eating our way through all his canned and frozen goodies from the garden and he is planning the next one...fewer green beans and more tomatoes. His corn is fantastic, where did he learn to freeze it better that I can? Maybe I can learn from him next summer. I'm looking forward to having time for him and his hobbies.
Our mom has Alzheimers and has struggled alot this fall and winter. My sster is a blessing for her and I hope to be able to help them more with retirement. Life can be so hard sometimes we wonder why? For what purpose do illnesses like Alzheimers, kidney failure, heart defects, addiction and lupus strike? What can we learn from our suffering? Difficult questions to contemplate - impossible to answer.
I hope to use this blog to reconnect with old friends, meet new ones and discover some of those answers.
HAPPY NEW YEAR EVERYONE MAY WE ALL BE A BLESSING TO SOME ONE.

SUMMERTIME!!!

2010-07-01T11:44:00.000-04:00

Hello Ladies,
       Our long awaited vacation is behind us now, but it was wonderful. All the kiddos enjoyed themselves, as did all the adults. It was good to have our 3 kids together in the same house for a few days. Stephen and family had been there for a week so they had to leave 2 days after Trent and Courtney arrived, but we had a terrific weekend. Spending 2 weeks felt right, we had no hurry to get things done, see all the sites or spend time on the beach. We had time enough for it all. Not that we wouldn't have stayed all summer if possible!! We were so blessed that no oil showed up while we were there. The beach and ocean were clear and beautiful. The Bay was a biology lab with a multitude of sea creatures, just waiting to be found. I discovered and picked up a Horseshoe Crab (with my flipflop) An amazing creature. The grandson was so impressed with G-ma.
          Courtney had flown home on the weekend we left Indiana and spent some time with Stori and her family and her Dad. No, we couldn't talk Stephen King into going on vaca with us. He has a fear of grandchildren in the same house for extended periods of time!!! Court and Trent came down on Friday of our 1st week in Cape San Blas. It was so good to see her after 8 months. She looks great, so happy with her life in Oz. But she was glad to get home to us, too. She had a blast with the grandkids and her brothers. Romping in the ocean with Madeleine every evening was a highlight, I think. Of course, picking on Mom was the theme of the trip, making fun of the person who gave them life has always been a favorite passtime of our kids. Good thing I'm easy going or heads would roll!!
          I got my first real tan since my teen years. I could not avoid the sunshine. I used plenty of sunscreen, but still managed a nice golden glow. Now I'm peeling, of course. But I looked healthy for awhile! :-). I had forgotten how much fun and relaxation the ocean provides, riding the waves or just floating around is such a tension reliever. Loved every minute of it. All the kiddos except Mackenzie and sea lovers. She prefers the pool with its lack of living things to touch her! Mack discovered the joy of tourists' shops while there. Each evening she would load up the car with her sibs, cousin and Allie, her friend who went with us and head of to the shop down the road. Driving is a new obsession for Mack. She is a good, safe driver, but has some trouble seeing over the hood of some vehicles. She is a tiny 4' 10" 16 year old. People point and laugh when she gets out of the driver's seat of her Mom's SUV. The red hair and freckles add to the little girl look, too. She is a joy though.
        We discovered cute little shops in Appalachiacola and Port St. Joe. Courtney was taken by "Books N Purl" the knitting/book shop and the girls and I loved :The Green Door", a home decor shop with the perfect accessories in it. We ate at many good restaurants from the Wise Owl to JoMommas Pizza. And we cooked some great meals at the house, too. But it is over and now we are back to our real lives, which are pretty good, too!!! It is nice to be at home doing all the little things I've left unattended all winter. Nina cleans my house and so I can do the other chores the need done. New curtains, scrubbed porches, tending flowers. All the easier things. I'm trying to see Mom everyday now that I'm not working. She is rapidly losing memory and we spend more and more time with her. Don't know how much longer she can stay alone at night. We have ideas of how to handle that, but haven't had to yet, Thank God. She loves her independence. Keep us in your prayers, Girls.
        I cannot wait to see you al at Anna's wedding. Imagine; our last little goose getting married! Sweet. See you in a few days. Love, Hedy

Anna's Shower

2010-05-16T16:40:00.000-04:00

Hello All, I had such a nice visit with Anna, Janelle, Kirstie and Little Kendra yesterday at the wedding shower. We missed you all, wasn't a Gaggle without you. Truthfully, I was dreading the drive, but the weather was great, I found a Classic Rock station out of Indy and the 3 1/2 hours flew by. And holding Little Kendra made the road time worth it. Ladies, she is precious. I had in mind a baby with dark hair and flashing dark eyes like her Momma, but instead Little Kendra is fair and blue-eyed with medium brown hair. Looks alot like Daddy, too. Such a doll baby. She snuggled against my chest like she belonged there. So sweet. She made me feel like I was Grandma Hedy for sure. Kirstie and Pat appear to have a pleasant, good natured daughter, lucky parents! I love having another little goose to watch grow up.
Oh, yeah. Anna was there, too. Hehehe. Sorry, Anna, Little Kendra about stoled the show. Anna's Mom, Grandma and aunts were there with other friends. It was nice to meet them all finally. I feel as if I know Grandma. We all sat on a cute screened in porch, that I'd love to have off my kitchen. Flowers everywhere and a weatherproof rug I wanted to roll up and take South. She was so sweet to have us all in her home. I'm looking forward to the wedding, Anna. I know, "we'll see what happens"! Anna's motto for the whole deal. We all know how she operates, leave everything till the last minute and still come through like a champ. "KEEP CALM AND CARRY ON"indeed, my girl. Janelle, is was so good to see you and catch up on all the Lady A and Miss Olivia stories. You just never change, you look just like you did the first day I saw you. What is your secret? I've probably waited too long to find out.
It is cool here today and rainy. Stephen King had a mussel-loading shooting match so I was home alone all day. I pieced a quilt top and back for a friends shower from some blocks I had. It will be a floor quilt, nothing bulky, just some 1940s style fabric to be used at home. I had to design the backing since I didn't quite have enough unbleached muslin to fit it. I made a large cross piece with muslin corners which I like quite well. Hope the new Momma does.
She is a wonderful young teacher in our middle school who was a student of mine. She and husband are doing an open-adoption where they have met the birth mom, gone to doctors appointments, seen the ultra sounds and will be there at delivery to meet their daughter. We are all excited for them, they are both special young people. Good, God-loving kids, wanting a child in their lives. She has gone with us on Spring Break for 3 years and is one of my dearest friends. I say a special prayer for her and the baby every night.
We need some nice warm sun in the Valley. Our garden is out, but not doing much in this cool weather. My flower garden is fantastic, though. Flowering bushes, perennials, grasses and roses are falling over themselves, heavy with color. Even my wisteria is covering the old iron fence I planted it behind last year and dripping purple clusters. I never dreamed it would flourish here. Aren't they southern plants? Stephen King leaned a cucumber trellis against the garage last fall, right where my sweet peas would climb up it. Now he can't move it for his cukes! I really love that my sweet peas will be up off the ground this spring. I always drive around hunting sweet peas on my birthday, since that is their best blooming time. My brother, Rob, used to bring them for me, but he has moved to another house. Now I'll grow my own for little pitchers full of sweet flowers for days and days, all over my house. We have to take joy in the little things, Girls. Not wait for big prizes.
I hope Jill has a better week; her mom took a bad turn and she couldn't join us Saturday. But Jill told me today her mom rallied and is doing better. God Bless their family through this painful time. Elaine wasn't feeling up for the trip to Covington either. Hope your days get easier, Elaine. Second trimester is better and school will soon be out. Take some long naps this summer and enjoy your kids, that's an order from Mother Goose. I'll even make you a nap quilt to lie on outside under a tree for sweet summer naps. Take care of yourself, please. Angela and her kids were going in several directions this weekend, so we didn't get to see her, either. How do you keep up? Sam and Abbie have such busy schedules and you with the Poms and Dance, too. I'd lose my head or a kid if I tried that. I hope to see you at the wedding, Angela, it has been a long time. Of course, Alison's boys had ballgames! Good thing there are only 2 Reinholt boys to keep up with, Dad would have to give up coaching to follow his champs around the country. We missed you too, Lady.
I need to hit the kitchen and see if we can find some food. You all have a good week and Talk to me. Hedy

Spring, spring, spring

2010-05-05T08:55:00.000-04:00

Hey Ladies, I wanted a fresh spring color for this posting, but you may not be able to read the aqua! This beautiful weather has brightened my mood 100%, after all the weekend rain, I was much in need of brightening. Things here in the Valley are going well. Stephen King has his garden out and the lawn looks like a magazine pix. It is so good to have a yardner in the house. Now we just need a maid. I haven't started Spring cleaning yet, waiting for the pollen to die down, or the rain to stop, any excuse, really. We have 19 new lambs and they are growing like weeds and filling the pastures with baabaabaa..
I'm still thinking of retirement, but the urgency has calmed to a managable level. A dear friend of mine has cancer and he spoke to me about not wasting my remaining years. That has forced me to think about what we want with our "golden years". My friend was retired only 3 years when he was diagnosed with Stage 4 Lung cancer. His wife is my exact age, we share a birthday and so many similarities in thinking that we feel like twins separated at birth. His illness has responded well to treatment until recently. I truly believe he doesn't have long now. His last visit was difficult for both of us. At 60, my remaining years are limited, I know. Will Stephen King and I have time to do all the traveling we have always planned? Will I see my grandchildren grow into the fine adults I know they will become? Will I ever be thin again? OK, that last one isn't necessary or possible, but I had to lighten up! Really, we all need to consider the future. I know I'm Heaven bound when I die, but what about the years till then? There's the rub.
I'm working on this at work!!! Something I never do, but I have a few minutes before our next case conference and think I'll take advantage of some down time. We have so many incoming 6th graders with IEPs that I don't know how we will place them all in next year's schedule. And no we aren't finished scheduling yet, our admin is, "still making decisions". Hey, guess who gets to work all of July! Not really, but why can't they see these things before April? Do you have such issues? It is too late for this year, but next year I am only doing guidance. No admin, no discipline, no extra duties, no late nights, strictly guidance. Promise, hear me? I am! Pinky swear, cross my heart. How I don't know yet. :-(
I am so excited to see you all at Anna's shower. I do hope Kirstie is bringing Baby Mc. I can't wait to hold her. It has been so long since we have had a tiny one at home. A former student brought in her new 5 pounder, her 3rd in 2 years. Broke my heart. Another issue with work, broken hearts. I love hearing from you all on here, but Alison takes the cake! Al always lifts me with her cheery response, praising the weather snow or shine, sharing endearing things the boys have done or the joys of a farming/coaching wife. Alison, you should have your own blog. I'd love to make mine more interesting, but don't know how to share pictures or links to other good blogs. Maybe that will improve with retirement, too.
Time to go. Another lying parent will come in and try to convince us she is Mom of the Year. Sorry, that slipped out. I am attempting to find the positive side of everything each day. Some days are more challenging than others. And some days I get beaten down by it all. Others, I manage to see the goodness and love in everyone so easily and encourage them to keep up the good job they are doing. These days have been few in recent weeks. Maybe more me than them??? Pollyanna has had hers eyes opened for sure with this career.
See you all on the 15th. Enjoy the Merry Month of May till then. Talk to me. Love, Hedy

Dreaming of Summer

2010-04-11T17:24:00.000-04:00

Hello Gaggle, I just received a wonderful text from Elaine. Congratulations on Parrish # 4, due in November. I admire your courage, Lady. I sometimes think this job of ours will do me in and here you are adding another child and doing the job. Let's have another boys this time, OK? Love all the little girlies, but there's something about a little boy that makes each one so special. Best of luck, Elaine and Charlie.
I am dreaming of our summer vacation this weekend. Like Janelle, going away for Spring Break seemed to wear me down for returning to the real world. My doctor sent me home to rest on Friday, so I've had a 3 day weekend, but don't feel much stronger for it. I posted a pix of the house we've rented for 2 weeks in June. Because of the snowy winter we had to change dates a few times, even had to switch houses! But we are staying in the same development, so I know the house will suit us. I looked at it when we were there for SB. Nice and roomy with open spaces for the kids. And a pool for the big girls! Just over the dunes is the beach and it is beautiful; white sand and blue-blue-blue water. We wanted a change from Gulf Shores, someplace less commercial. And this is 50 minutes from Panama City, 20 minutes from fast food and CVS. So we are safe, just secluded! Very family friendly cul-de-sac for kids to ride bikes and play ball. Guys may visit for one week, but Stephen King says not him. We shall see. :-)
I think I've fixed the problems on Gagglespeak, so I hope you all will come visit again. Good to hear from Elaine, Allison and Janelle lately. I, too, hope we can plan another Gagglefest soon. Maybe to see Kendra Lou Mac? I'm needing to see more of her than the 2 pictures offered and maybe hold her for a while! Hope everything is going well, Kirstie. Enjoy the leave and your summer together. Are you taking the rest of the semester off? Hope so. My best friend had a grand daughter the same day Kendra was born. Olivia March Bean lives in Michigan with her elementary teacher mom and college professor dad. They are in their early 30s and she is their first. I cannot wait to see her either. Her mom and I had our first babies within weeks of each other and raised all 7 of our kids close together.
Well, @*^##**@@^ I just burned a big kettle of ham and beans. I should never cook when I don't feel well. I remember my great grandmother saying ladies shouldn't cook during their menses, but that hasn't been an issue since the 80s! My attention span is flealike when the Lupus flairs, thoughts get jumbled together and nothing works. I was finishing the binding on a quilt and had to put it away before I ruined it earlier today. Chronic diseases and getting older do not mix well, Ladies. Stay young and healthy, that's my advice to you all.
Anna, did you find a house? Haven't heard much about the home shopping lately. Hope it is going good for you and Brett. It is one of the most stressful things in life, but one of the most exciting, too. Good Stress?? I think so. I love making a house our home, it is a nurturing process that never ends. Your babies grow and leave, your husband turns into a body on TV remote support, but your home always needs a little tweaking. Ahhh.
Spring has come in Southern Indiana in a big way, flowers, trees, pollen, bees and yes, ladybugs, Eeeekkkk. My window sills are full of them, but Stephen King and Nina are keeping them from my sight. Our fields are full of lambs this month, 13 with 3 more to deliver. We even have a set of triplets for the first time! We kept thinking mama wouldn't be able to raise them all, but they are thriving without any supplementary bottles. There is a set of black twins here at the house and a funny little black and white polka dot one, too. All the others are at the farm where Nina and Trent live. Stephen King has recruited the daughter-in-law as the chief lamb watcher and Nina does an excellent job. She about flipped when the triplets were born hours apart, harder on her than on the mama. Up most of the night, wishing them born.
Steve has his garden started, too. Potatoes, and cabbages, cauliflower and broccoli. I should be able to cook some rhubarb this week. yum yum. Shawn loves it with biscuits.
Courtney has been living in Australia for over a year now. She loves it and has decided to apply for a residential visa. This means she can work and receive benefits. She and Ken have discussed marriage, but she can have health care without being married, if she has that visa. She would like to work part time at something other than office work. Her experience with running a program at IU spoiled that for her, I'm afraid. She has taken up knitting and does a remarkable job with it. Ken's son and his wife are expecting a second child in July and Court is working on a blanket for him. They have a 5 year old daughter, Bella. She has Courtney's coloring, oddly enough and the two of them are thick as thieves. They are excited about having a little grandson. Weird to think of Courtney as a g-ma, hehehe.
Don't even consider what that makes me and Stephen King!!!
I suppose I need to think about a replacement for our beans and get some supper together. Of course there is always Chicago's Pizza. Wonder if the old guy's tummy is up for that?

Let's talk about a get-to-gether, Girls. I do miss you all and think of each of you often. Talk to me. Love, Hedy

The Home Stretch

2010-03-28T19:55:00.000-04:00

Hello all, How's our little Kendra Lou, Kirstie? I cannot wait to see her and hope all is well with your family. I have her pictured in my mind; sometimes as a dark brunette, next as a little red head. Which is she? Back from sunny, then rainy, then windy Florida, well rested and ready to tackle the last lap of our educational race to the top. (to steal a phrase from Dr. Bennett).The trip was good, the house OK and the company great. I'm lucky to have such good friends to travel with.
Tomorrow starts our last 9 weeks and hopefully a new start for many of our students. We are initiating a "Top Hawk" incentive/award program for the middle school. The Winners get an afternoon at the WaterPark the last week of school. I trust that everyone else had a terrific Spring Break, too. I know Kirstie and Pat did! Anna, did you find THE house? I always loved house hunting, although most people hate it. I enjoy looking, deciding how I would make each one of them mine. Which wall needs to come down, which room needs new paint, what were the owners thinking when they did that! Love it all. We striped this one from the ceilings down and created our home from a black and gold shag carpeted Spanish motif disaster. I like to think we saved her from humiliation and she repays us by being solid, strong and dry. But maybe I'm too far-fetched in my feeling for houses? What did everyone do over Break? It feels like ages since I've heard from anyone. Talk to me! Please. :-)
Miss you all, Hedy

March Madness AKA ISTEP

2010-03-04T16:53:00.000-05:00

Sunday was Kirstie's baby shower and I missed it, torn between resting for the week ahead and driving to Danville for a day of good friends, I had to choose rest. I know I was right, but hate missing all the fun. Anna missed out, also. But, Bless her heart, she tried! Apparently the online directions aren't infallible and led Anna astray somewhere around the mysterious Main Street in Danville. Calling Mother Goose was of no help, she was home in bed and only vaguely familiar with Danville. Anna's dayout was spent on the road crossing Indiana and back without seeing anyone or having cake! Good try, Girlie. You get points for trying. I'm unsure who all made it to the shower, but I heard that Mama Mac looks amazing! Imagine that...she is only the most pulled together person I know. I wouldn't expect any less from her. Only a few weeks now, Kirstie, and the most terrific kid in the world will be in your arms. Such sweetness to come.
Today was the start of that most wonderful education concept...ISTEP. I have the 504 kids and we all really enjoy the challenge of remaining focused, quiet, and calm for long periods of time while shut up in a small room with 12 others just like us and answering math and English questions made up by some idiot who has never worked with kids! Such fun and good use of our school time. AND we get to do it tomorrow and the next day, too. Will this fun never end?
I wish I knew the answer to the country's education crisis, but I cannot see how this is it. Our students either stress themselves out of being able to do the work or completely blow it off. Like many schools, we are losing our middle, where most students used to be. Our upper and lower ends continue to grow, the high achievers and the non achievers. Our average student is disappearing like the butterflies of summer. As a child, I would ride my bike through dense walls of butterflies, now a few hover over muddy puddles along our drive on a hot summer day. I don't even want to see our scores for this Spring. Our overall grades in the middle school have fallen like bricks since the semester began with Ds andFs up over 20% since first semester finals.
My mom continues to improve with the medication for her memory loss. She still has a problem with yesterday, but today and last century are fine. She is back to cleaning like a busy bee and even shopping some. Not driving, she is afraid of forgetting where she is headed. We are so relieved she realizes that she does have an issue with remembering. Last week she changed her bed sheets evey day, when Deb pointed that out to her, our mild mannered Mom blurted out, "SHIT, I thought I was better", and laughed till she and Deb both were crying. We have to keep a sense of humor or couldn't bear it. As Deb says, each day with Mom is a Blessing.
Stephen King took my sewing machine in for a fix up yesterday. I am excited to have it back to finish some projects that lay on my sewing table. Two quilts and some lovely little girl skirts that Maddie decided she just had to have. A very simple pattern of gathered rectangles trimmed with ric-rac and topped with elastic. I'm going to attempt adding on a cami for a sweet sundress. I love all the new fabrics out there, so bright and vibrant. Makes me happy to look at them. For an old lady who dresses in black & decorates in taupe, I really love color! Who knew?
It has been a day or so since I started this post, haven't had time at school to finish it and at home I'm dead. I hope Spring puts some new life in me that this winter has drained out. I really am working on the positive approach, but every morning I get shot down by something. I may be suffering from PTSD, except the traumatic stress is still ongoing not from the past!.
Let's look to Spring for another Gagglefest, Girls. Everyone take care and talk to me. Love, Hedy

Winter Gagglefest in Indy

2010-02-22T21:14:00.000-05:00

Just a quick post to remind everyone we want to see you at the hotel Saturday evening or the shower Sunday afternoon. Anna is in charge of the Saturday night plans, yes, my dear, you are! I hope the winter has blown itself out by then. We had a beautiful springlike weekend and now we are freezing our tails off again.
But Spring is coming, Ladies, I can smell it in the air. I noticed some spring bushes faintly showing some green today. I had to smile at their courage! Stephen King is lambing tonight at the farm. Why are babes born at night, in the mud instead of during the day in the shed? I love how fast the lambing happens, one after the other, our Mamas pop out those little bundles once they get started. We have around 20 so it may take the rest of this week to get them all. Then the fields will jump with lambs and mamas, baaing and nursing in the sun or the cold wind, whatever. Spring is almost here.
I am counting the days till Spring Break, OK I'm counting the hours, really. What a long time since I've walked the beach, watched the dolphins play and tried to sneak close to the sandpipers to get a snapshot. I cannot wait until I see that wondrous sky that says the coast is near. I feel the weight being lifted by the Gulf winds and my shoulders are allowed to drop down out of my earlobes. My shoulders are usually clinched close to my ears, tense and tight all year except for those short weeks I get to spend by the sea. My chest can expand, filling my lungs with fresh sea air and I breathe deep and long. I think I might have been a mermaid in a previous life, or possibly a crab!! hehehe. That is Stephen King's choice, I'm sure. I am a Cancer, after all...the sign of the crab.
I'm going to check Kirstie's registration at Target and Kid's Are Us to see just what Baby Mac may be wanting for Sunday. I cannot wait to see you all, My Girls. Wish more of us could be at the sleepover. Everyone have a safe trip to Indy. Lila, the Mermaid

COLD AND SNOWY EVERY WHERE

2010-02-09T14:18:00.000-05:00

Is everyone cold enough ? Had enough snow? Dreading making up snow days in June? ME TOO. What a winter we are having this year. I realize you all are used to the snow and just keep on going through it. But we have more on the ground today than we usually get all winter. One bright spot is that all the snow makes the world look bright! Even with the gloomy gray sky. The trees and fence rows, bushes and buildings look like Martha Stewart sprayed us with her fluffy white frosting. We are bracing for a cold front to come through this afternoon dropping the temps into single digits. No chance of melting this week.
I was putting the final touches on a quilt for Courtney when I broke my machine. Poor old $98 Sears model has been with me since 1969. I sold my portable dish washer to buy it. Crazy, I know, but at the time, I wanted to sew more than I hated doing dishes. I guess I'll go to Steve's sister and borrow one of her machines. She quilts a lot and has her things set up in a small room off her restaurant in Paoli. The daughter-in-law runs the restaurant now, so she is free to sew and sew. She's planning to open a small fabric shop there, too. That will be great for those of us who don't shop much and tend to order fabric online. Like me.
I'd love a new machine with all the bells and whistles, but I'd have to give up my vacations on the coasts if I spent that much. So I'll think of a Plan B. We are trading our Gulf Shore visit to Cape San Blas Florida. It is less developed and has beautiful turquoise water. My buddies and I got a new beach front house for Spring Break and the family house is one row back from beach front with a pool. We have to have a pool for the kiddos. Provides so much entertainment for all of them. There is no house between ours and the water, the view is open and you can hear the surf from my bedroom, so I'm happy. We are booked for 2 weeks this year, hoping the boys will come down for a few days. Stephen King isn't interested, but the sons are working on him. After 2 hours in a restaurant with Caleb on Sunday, he isn't sure he can handle that much togetherness. The 3 little ones can be noisy, but they are usually pretty tired by bedtime. I love our time together each summer. Being away from home makes it all the more special, no interruptions or distractions, just time to enjoy each other. We have so many rituals now that even Gavin and Caleb talk about what we "have to do". Crabbing at dark, watching the stars at night, counting dolphins and pelicans and reading the messages on the seaplanes flying by the beach. Every morning they sneak into my room for stories of when their dads were little boys. They can't quite believe those big guys were as small as them and love to taunt their dads with, "we know about the time you...". The girls love it too, but in another way; they all enjoy the water and the beach and the food and a few shopping trips. The massages and manicures and hair beading from the local Spa are something they relish. I guess it is a fantasy we all love living in. Until G-ma retires, hehehehe.
Gee, I just realized I'm still in French Lick, it is still cold and Spring Break is 40 days from now. The power of visualization is good, but not enough to actually transport me away. Darn it, I should have been a witch not a counselor.
Last week was so difficult, girls. We had a pregnancy, 2 cutters, an ED kid with a knife, mean girls on a vicious tear, teachers about to revolt and this old woman trying to cope with it all. I failed, my spirit was weak and defeated. I let it all get to me. On the outside, I managed, but inside I was a mess. When will we get strong enough to do this work without all the garbage left inside? I hope for one more year to attempt to learn how, after that I may retire. If funding cuts come I may not have that. I'll have to find a new career, one that is all about joy and celebrations. Maybe???
See you all in a couple of weeks. Talk to me, Ladies. Love, Hedy

Poor February: That Short Ugly Month

2010-01-30T15:25:00.000-05:00

Has this not been the longest month ever? Dark, foggy, rainy, snowy, cold? And now here comes February, whose only saving grace is it will only last 28 days. Four weeks, Bam, it is gone. Surely we can stand that after this January. Last night's giant winter storm missed us by 25 miles. From our slight dusting to 4, 5, 6, even 9 inches down the road. Blessing from above if you ask me.
The Positive Start to each day is still ongoing, just sputters a little some mornings. And I have been told to "stuff it" by a few less than positive folks at work on particularly dark mornings. hehehe. I do find myself feeling better and facing the day stronger by using those first moments to Thank God and Think positive every morning. Attitude is Everything, Ladies. It may take using duct tape to hold up my lips, but I start out smiling!
Of course, yesterday was an exception. Oh, I started out fine; it was Friday, had my jeans on, no meetings for after work, It was good to go. And then reality stepped in; we are all so affected by others who slack off their jobs and leave us holding the garbage. And yesterday must have been a group slack! Everything I attempted took twice along to do because someone dropped their ball, if they had ever had Balls! I'm afraid I showed my dark side to several people who didn't deserve it. I am sorry and ask them to forgive me. And as soon as I can pull my magic wand outta my --- I will finish the job. There, I feel better now. :-)
We are having a Coaches Against Cancer soup supper tonight before Homecoming and I'm the dessert chair. Our families are doing great right now in the battle against the Big, Bad C and it will be a pleasure to see them benefit from this effort. Hopefully both families can take a vacation with the proceeds. All have endured a stressful winter, but stood strong and faced it all without breaking. Bless them, Lord.
I've been working on ditching TV and computer at night in favor of reading and quilting. I know I've wasted many hours sitting in front of these lifeless machines and decided to stop and be quietly productive. Takes a real effort to do this, Girls, somewhat like dieting. But how much more satisfying to have something to show for your time. And the quiet is so restoring. My favorite Bible verse has been "Be still and know" and this practice has brought it to life. After a long day of listening, I relish the quiet. I realize our circumstances are different, but I bet you would be refreshed too with a little quiet in the evening or early morning. My sister, Deb, has her time in the morning with her daily walks. She does these alone for the sole reason of listening to nature, her heart and God. I admire the strength and energy she has to do this everyday whatever the weather. I am a wimp, with weather, exercise and exertion.
Stephen King is napping through his Saturday afternoon PBS programs, "The Woodwright and This Old House". He flips to IU basketball whenever his snores shake him awake. He gets too upset when the boys are blowing a game to watch continuously. This has been a Saturday afternoon habit of his for years. We all tease that he has never actually seen these programs, he just hears them through his sleep. The long winter is getting to him, too. Boredom was so bad this week he watched a marathon of old western movies. And even decided they were really bad. Apparently Vincent Price from 1939 wasn't a believable cowboy. He may have to get a winter job. He is anxious to get out in the yard and garden. We will start lambing soon, so he'll be busy then. I think we have nearly 20 ewes waiting to deliver this spring. Nothing like bouncy little baby lambs to improve your spirit. We had great luck last year with our babies, hope to do even better this.
Jill is coming to the Casino today, we may meet tomorrow. I hope so. It is always fun to catch up with our funny one. I met her dad last time; such a corker. It is evident where Jill gets her sense of humor. Wish you all could join us.
I have to get to school now. Get the desserts out and the drinks ready, serving starts at 5:00. Wish us luck. See you next month, Ladies, at Indy. I'll let everyone know the hotel when I book one. Kirstie, take it easy you have precious cargo in there. Love you all. Hedy

Hello

2010-01-23T16:22:00.000-05:00

Hello Ladies, hope you all are snug and warm in the great north. It is so foggy here that we won't recognize the sun when it does reappear. Oh well, winter in the midwest, I suppose. Why fight it?
We all are back in our 2nd semester routine at school, one day following the other, plodding toward Spring Break. So sad, our lives have come to this. I try to enjoy each day and make it count for something special, but along about February, I seem to falter. I cannot think I'm alone in this fault. :-(
We all should realize how blessed we are to live here and have the bounty we do. The Haitian disaster , along with the adoption of our new nephews from the Congo, has opened our eyes to our wonderful country. Giving money just doesn't seem enough when there is so much need in the world. It is difficult to understand how we can be so blessed when others are suffering so intensely. Not a balanced world we live in, Ladies. Not at all. My sister has started a daily routine of asking each of us to go out and be a blessing to someone each day on Face Book. All her friends have responded with such positive comments, it is heartwarming. We all need that encouraging reminder to do just that. Thanks, Debbie.
I'm sure you all are busy with school and family now that basketball season is upon Indiana. Our boys have only won 3 games this year, but last night we only lost by 2 points against our county rival. Our boys are great kids, we have no great athletes right now, but they all play with heart. I'm doing desserts for our annual "Coaches Against Cancer" bean supper at our homecoming next Saturday night. You are all invited to come on down! As you know we have two students with cancer and will donate the proceeds to those families. Last year we raised $3000 from it. Then we only had one boy with cancer. One is cancer free at this point, the other had a major setback with H1N1, chicken pox and pneumonia this winter.
Stephen King has a new coon dog, Hoss, a blue tick who is identical to all the others we have owned in our 43 year marriage. I cannot name all of them , but they all looked alike. He and a friend have been hunting almost every night a are just like two boys with their new toy. Walking through a dark, cold woods after a bawling dog is something I've never been able to wrap my head around. Must be a man thing!
Orange County is undertaking a health project called Ways of Wellness. It has attracted hundreds of people. We have exercise, dance and yoga classes, cooking workshops and many other events going on all over the county. My girls are doing yoga, but I'm just stretching and walking to begin with, easing my way into real stuff. I plan to do water aerobics, but have had an ear infection for weeks. The shared enthusiasm is wonderful. Heaven knows most of us need to get healthier. Me especially!
Winter Gagglefest can't come soon enough for me. I haven't been anywhere since our fall get together. I'm so ready for a road trip. And want to see you all, of course!! Give me some response on Kirstie's shower date and I'll book a room or two. Talk to me. Love, Hedy

COLD NEW YEAR

2010-01-11T20:29:00.000-05:00

Hello all. Another Sunday evening. Waiting for my chicks to get here for supper. I made brown beans and ham, cheezy potato soup, cornbread and angel food cupcakes, chocolate and raspberry filled. I hope someone is hungry. I haven't fed them since Christmas break, so I'm starved to see them all at home.
We have had a 2 day snow break this week, it was nice and unexpected. I really don't know if me and my teachers could have survived a whole week. That 2 week Christmas break was a spoiler. I love the snow, but this cold weather is a killer. I hurt all over and am only warm in bed. I've intended to finish quilting projects and start a new one, but have only managed to read [ :-)], patterns and instructions for projects...that's almost the same as starting, isn't it? What a peaceful time this has been though. at least for those of us who haven't had to get outside and work. Our Stephen has been working in Terre Haute setting forms for a new project. Cold as Hell, we all know. Poor guy. But atleast he is working. So many aren't as lucky right now. My heart goes out to them. We had our own low years when we first married and started our family. Stephen King was critically injured when Stephen was a baby and we lived on Worksman's Comp at $36 a week for months. Imagine trying that now.
I'm looking forward to getting back and working hard this semester to raise our grades and tests scores. I'm starting a new Bullying guidance lesson to deal with bystanders. Most of our kids are the bystanders, of course, observing without taking a stand. I hope to turn this around. Make heroes of them! I also have a new Girl's program I'd like to flesh out for the middle school. Just wish I could recruit some younger adults to run it for us. I'm tired and old. I hate to tie up one more late day. I best check on my soups right now, back tonight.
OK, it is now Monday night.
Boy, the students were loud today, must have be glad to get back to their friends. Everyone was in a great mood though. Even my downstairs boys who cause me grief were impressed with the automatic paper towel dispenser in the restroom they routinely destroy. I wonder how long it will last and what were they thinking to install it there. We have had sausage and biscuits in the urinals, locked stalls, plugged toilets and boys sitting on the urinals in there. Wonder what they will do with free flowing paper toweling? Give a boy a motorized toy and he can rule the world. I do believe 12 year olds are a different species. From real people, I mean.
Good to hear from Elaine. I'm wondering about a winter gagglefest. Who is planning it? Lets wait till the great freeze out of 2010 passes, OK? I'm looking forward to seeing everyone again. I wasn't too happy with the place I chose last year, what else is available and better? I looked at B & Bs, but they all looked musty. I enjoy the modern ones with spas attached. Do you have one of those in Laffy? Can we afford it?
I'm resolved to starting each new day in a positive mood this year. So far, so good. We can at least choose that much for ourselves. girls. The world may enter and smack us around, but that first few minutes belongs to us. Use them as a blessing. Love you all. Talk to me. Hedy

2010 COMING UP QUICK

2009-12-29T18:44:00.000-05:00

Good Morning Girls,
   I know everyone is having a good break and enjoying her family, right? Our time off has been fun, family and food; no surprise there! I've enjoyed lots of down time too, resting and reading. Trying not to interfere with Stephen King's routine, he's such an old lady about his schedule, Girls!
   Mackenzie and I saw "Avatar" last night; I have to recommend it to you, very good. It is like nothing I've seen before; fantasy, technology, love story, fun, tragic, all the things that make a great movie. I'm not a movie buff at all, but this one was worth seeing. Now today I'm taking the Littles to see "Chipmunks, The Squeekual", maybe not quite the same quality, but just as entertaining. Maddie and Caleb are a hoot at the movies. Madd gets totally immersed into the screen. I love watching them watch.
   Right now I'm waiting for a phone call from Jill, she is at the hotel with her dad and we are meeting for coffee. Can't wait to see her. She improves my spirits every time. I cannot imagine driving down here as often as they do, but then again, I live here and don't gamble! I told Jill to just write me a check and not bother with throwing her money away at the casino, but no such luck. Maybe she will be lucky this visit, hope so. I haven't been back in the casino since you all were here in July. Not much of a supporter, sorry.
   Orange County is undertaking a new health program with life style changes, weight loss programs, fitness workshops and smoking cessation classes offered in each town several times a week. My niece, Stori, is an organizer and I think I'll get involved somehow. The exercise much begin soon or else!!! My muscles continue to deteriorate and joints hurt almost constantly. I think a walking and swimming program are my choices. The eating component is pretty much controlled already. Now I need to move. Our school pool adjoins my office, so I have no excuse not to swim a few laps after school. My doc says as long as it is a gradual introduction, I'll be fine. So... Orange County W.O.W. here we go.
   My Mom is having a pretty good winter, short-term memory is bad, but she is functioning so much better with the new meds. We make sure she has a good lunch or dinner, she forgets to eat otherwise. My sister, Debbie, is a wonder with Mom. Patient and there everyday. We are so blessed she can and does do this for us and Mom. Christmas was a challenge, Mom kept wanting to give everyone money whenever she was with them. She wasn't up to shopping so we got gift cards for her to passout. But she kept forgetting she had done it after the first time. You have to keep laughing or else you cry. Bless her heart, Mom still wants to do for us all.
   Christmas without Courtney was different, a big hole in our party. She and Ken spent the day with his son and his family then traveled to his mother's for the weekend. The pictures show blue skies, green grass, flowers and a pet kangaroo! Not your typical Hoosier Christmas. We are learning to be independent parents (ha) and know she is enjoying the life she wants and we are happy for her.
   Jill just called, cashed in $200 and wants to celebrate. Going to meet her for a Coke! I'll be back. Ok, that was fun, Jill looks terrific and I laughed my head off at her tall tales! Your dad is a sweetie, Jill. So nice getting together for a quick catch-up. I wish the rest of you were addicted to gambling and came to see me sometime. Just kidding, Tucker stopped when she saw me coming. :-)
   Stephen King and I had a nice afternoon together; drove down to Jasper, had the oil changed in his truck, went to Rural King for hinges for the lambing pen, ate cheap Chinese. I tell you, Ladies, life cannot get much more romantic than this. Bet you all can't wait to grow old like us. Nothing says love like sitting in the Penzoil waiting room together.
   Is it cold up North? It has been a beautiful day here after several gray gloomies, but the 2 week forecast is for highs in the 20s!!! My office will be frigid. I was gifted 2 new shawls for Christmas, I'll need both of the everyday. One for my head, the cold air blows down right on it as I sit at my computer. Wish I'd gotten gloves, too. Oh, I got 4 new candles, I suppose I can light them all at once for a bonfire.
   2010, I can hardly imagine such a date. I thought the 1900s would last forever and the 2000s were science fiction. Little did I know how quickly time passes as one grows older. I've said before my live is a series of 6AMs, happening one after the other. Days whiz by, the hours flying, months race at superspeed, how can I be over 60 years old? Where has the time gone? Those grown people cannot be my children already, aren't they only babies? What did I do with all those years? Enjoy the days, my Girls, everyone of them. Hold onto those precious times with your kiddos, write their sweet words on your hearts. How I would love a few hours with my young boys again to fish or play h-o-r-s-e or build another tree house. And just a few hours with my daughter, sitting in the porch swing talking as we break beans or have a girlie day shopping at antique stores, sipping coffee and desserts. But that has passed, as your times will; passed much too fast. Almost without notice.
   But we have lots of time left for new memories with kids and grandkids. More road trips and get-to-gethers, more 6 AMs and Sundays. I'll just have to learn to treasure each moment more from now on.
May you all be blessed with peace and love in 2010, my friends. Love you all. Hedy

CHRISTMAS WEEK 2009

2009-12-21T22:24:00.000-05:00

Hello Ladies,

Does your Holy Week feel Holy? Or rushed, hassled, stressful? Why do we let ourselves do this every year? I have been following a wonderful blog called down-to-earth for over a year and do believe it may be the answer everyone seeks. This lady, Rhonda, and her husband are a retired couple who are nearly self-sufficient. They live such a peaceful, purposeful life with chickens and dogs and honeybees. I realize this life is much easier for a retired couple than for you with young families, but hope you look for her at www.down-to-earth.blogspot.com when you have a minute. She is starting a "living simply" month in January which should be informative and fun to read. They live outside of Brisbane Australia on a little patch of land behind the gates. Courtney lives in Brisbane and although they will never meet, I feel closer to Courtney when I read this blog. Stephen King and I move closer to this peaceful living as I contemplate retirement. He loves his garden, I'd love to quilt daily.

Our gifts are bought and stacked in the back room waiting to be wrapped in shiny, red foil and placed under the tree. Which will probably be completed 10 minutes before the grandkids tear them open. I'd rather fool around on here than stand, bent over the dining table, wrapping gifts. Sorry. Once again, Grandma has overdone the spending, buying much too much for kiddos who do not need anything. This is the last time, I promise, again. But I love doing it, finding those cute sweatshirts for my boys, the rough n tough little hoodies and jeans. The toys they just have to have, Transformers the size of end tables. And for my big girls, the clothes and boots and bags and coats, where do I stop? And my Madeleine? The quilted coat in Blossom with the heather gray leggings and zebra tunic. And the brother and sister life size dolls, Katie and Kyle. With real hair and kissing sounds? How could I not? I know...my name is Grandma and its been 3 days since I've shopped. I won't even talk about the daughters-in-law. Every year, it is the same.

I spent today at Mom's with my sister making candy and cookies or trying to. Mostly we laughed and talked and hugged because we never get to spend a whole day together and Mom was having a good day. Aging is so bittersweet; wisdom and peace come with age, but so do pain and confusion. It breaks my heart to watch the light go out of Mom's eyes as she slips from us. Not all the time, not even daily now, but it is there, waiting. That place where we cannot follow her, where she is alone and scared. The new meds are working for now and that is all we can ask. NOW. Tomorrow will come and we will deal with it then. For today, it was good. She was Mom.

My niece, Stori and her husband Jamey are hosting our Christmas Eve gathering again this year. Yes, they are the couple who have the new babies. They are amazing and loving and want the family at their house. So we will cook and carry and gather round their beautiful new kitchen and celebrate the birthday of our Lord. And celebrate these new members of our family, Chad and Ian. And celebrate another year of being family.

I hope each of you have that family gathering each year to celebrate being together. Keep that connection as long as you can, it is so important that the young ones know where they come from, who they are, what they are a part of. I am the oldest of my grandparents' grandchildren on both sides and we have lost that connection for the most part. The cousins still keep in touch but our children and grandchildren don't know their distant cousins or great aunts and uncles. It makes me feel sad and guilty for not working harder at planning reunions and birthdays and Christmas together. I suppose that is the way it is in all families...the drifting a part when the number of people becomes too big to manage. I have a difficult time working our Christmas dinner in with only two sets of in-laws to juggle. No wonder I can't coordinate over 200.

I love all the picture cards this year, Ladies. Next year, we will have a Baby Mac to add to it. I wish you all Blessings for the New Year and Happy, Peaceful Hearts for Christmas. Talk to me. Love, Hedy

Hello

2009-12-13T21:40:00.002-05:00

Hi Gals, for some reason, I cannot figure out, my blog has changed. I will work on designing a new one over break. Too much pink, maybe? This is our last week, we get out on Friday the 18th, Praise God for His mercy. Neighboring school go til the 23rd, I don't know or care why, I'm just thrilled we don't.

All my shopping is done, nothing wrapped or decorated, that waits for next week along with the baking and candy making.

I am much better, still a little lingering asthma, but I'm perking right along this weekend. We went to Gavin's pre-school program tonight, So sweet. He left his shirt on this year, didn't play air guitar or cry. All high points of last year's performance. He had a speaking part this year, a surprise for us, and did an excellent job. What a difference a year makes when you are five.

Shay turned 21 today, we celebrated last night with an Italian dinner. She is such a sweet young woman, just awhile ago she was a laughing little girl, how fast time goes. Girls, hold those days close to your hearts, don't hurry your kids to grow up, it happens in a flash of light. Treasure your time together.

Tomorrow night is our big Board meeting. He doesn't have the support of enough of the Board to defeat them, but he will not resign, they will have to fire him. My heart breaks at that, but we will be with him, standing strong for our friend. Education should not be political, it is not the place for favors and back-scratching, everyone looses when it becomes political. The chief penis is still not talking to me, but that's OK. I'll make him speak eventually, if only to fire me!!! Alison, I think this must be what you felt when you resigned from counseling. Such a heavy heart, filled with frustration, weighing me down. We all need this 2 week separation, maybe we can return with better spirits.

I'm in the classroom tomorrow with 8th graders, discussing their IDEAS results. Maybe I can encourage them all to be education warriors, fighting acceptance of injustice. Fighting for excellence and high expectations of everyone; students, teachers and administrators. Wouldn't that be nice?

Or maybe pioneers, finding a new future for education and humanity... Or how to say, "want fries with that?"

You all have a good week and I'll talk to you later. Love you all. Hedy

HEADING TOWARD CHRISTMAS

2009-11-29T20:28:00.002-05:00

IT'S SUNDAY NIGHT LADIES. Of course, it is. I only seem to settle down at the computer on Sunday evening, wishing I could talk to you all in person. Everyone's Thanksgiving has been put away in the memory box, leftovers fed to the dog, and maybe the Christmas tree put up already. Not here, but maybe at your house. Our Turkey day was wonderful; everyone was here and in good humor, the food was all edible and the Grinch won't show up till Christmas. I chose to eat early this year. Shawn's sister was in from Michigan and they had to eat with her family, too. But I got to choose what time. I decided eating early would ensure everyone would be hungry and I was right. They ate and ate, then crashed on the couch, beds and recliner. Caleb even took a nap!!! I love having sleeping kids in my house, it feels so cozy and safe to have them resting. Stephen King and I may have been the only ones with our eyes still open by 5:00. The daughters-in-law helped me straighten up before they left which made me happy:-)

The kids had no more than cleared the drive when I started coughing and haven't stopped yet! Sinus infection, I suppose. So I've been confined to the house all weekend. Hope to go to work tomorrow, as I need to decorate the office and lobby. And all the other reasons I should be there, of course.

Our football coach has been "asked" to resign by the Super and AD and I'm about to get myself into a twit over it, I think. He is a great teacher and a wonderful man, a true role model for the students, but hasn't had a winning season for awhile. And Valley being Valley, some want him gone. I am this man's friend, but more than that I know our school would be losing more than a coach if he left. Our mission statement is all about turning out productive citizens ready for the real world and doing everything for the "good of our students". Forcing him to resign flies in the face of our mission. We must teach our students that winning isn't everything, how you play IS important, being men of strong morals, caring, and honest is important also. This man represents all these characteristics and is homegrown and has a family in our town, kids in our school, a wife employed by our school. He doesn't want to leave. Small schools don't have great teams very often, this is not our time. Our other sports teams are not successful right now either, but our Band took 3rd at state! It was their time. Our time in football may come again, 20 years ago we went to state finals. In the meantime, we stand to lose two wonderful teachers, two talented individuals we cannot afford to lose. I am taking a stand for my friend by calling Board members, organizing student support and encouraging attendance at the deciding meeting. People are scared to step forward and are warning me to drop it. I cannot do that. Our kids, our school need to see caring people stand up and be heard, not just roll over. Am I doing the right thing here, Girls? Or getting ready to get my ass kicked?

I have almost all my Christmas gifts bought already!!! Yay for online shopping. Still haven't figured out how to beat the high costs of shipping to Australia, but I'm working on a solution. Now if I can wrap it all before 12/24, I'll be set. I hope to decorate a little more this year, too. Some years lately the tree was a last minute addition. I miss those days of being home all the time and getting everything done; decorating, cooking, shopping, wrapping and loving every minute of it. Another life.

Well, this is the life I'm living now and I'd better get myself to bed so I can continue tomorrow. Our fall gagglefest was terrific, Ladies. I was so happy to spend good time together. I hope everyone can make the Winterfest! Take care and talk to me, Love.

2009-11-07T12:20:00.002-05:00

Hello Ladies,
What a great week! Our weather is "outstanding" to quote Stefan. You just cannot imagine the blue in the sky overhead. It was already 65 when I got up today. We are having a pitch-in at Nina's for Stephen King's birthday today and Trent's tomorrow. The kiddos will be playing outside and all G-ma's chicks will be together. Happy, happy. :-) Courtney's been home for a couple of weeks, going back to Oz the 16th. It's been great to have her home, but her heart is Down Under. She isn't coming to Indy with us because my niece, Stori, is coming back from Africa with her new babies on Saturday. Those two boys are so precious, little brothers only 10 months apart, 8 and 18 months old. Chad, the oldest, speaks French but is catching on to English fast. The whole town is involved in this adventure because of Stori's blog and FB. I hope some of you have looked at "ourstoribook". It is a leap of faith for the family.
I'm excited about our gagglefest next week. Kirstie's baby bump should be obvious by then! I loved your comment on "Mrs. Mac taught us", Kirstie, great to know they are listening and learning! Hope you are feeling better, Jill. And the rest of you, STAY WELL. Gotta go fix myself for the party. Talk to me, Ladies. Hedy

FALL IS IN THE HOUSE

2009-10-16T11:34:00.002-04:00

It is definitely fall in Southern Indiana: rainy and only 43 degrees, dark, gloomy skies, but IT IS FALL BREAK. Four days to be lazy, or not, to sleep-in or not, whatever, it is our choice. No bus duty, no meetings, no lunch duty, no parents, no kids, no teachers. Life is good. :-)
I'm not quite ready for such cool weather, but I love the chance to wear sweaters and jackets again. And since my office is a constant 58 degrees with winds out of the north, I have been choosing some bright, colorful new toppers for my basic black look. I find it amazing what a good cover-up can, well..cover! No one needs to know what chunkiness lies beneath my new bronze brocade jacket with tiny ruffled trim. Or that the little patchwork number is disguising 3 rolls of excess insulation. And the navy swing cardigan, oh my, how well it flows over all the extras and makes me look taller and leaner. We all know tall and lean aren't words usually used to describe me, but this navy job is almost a miracle worker. If only it came in other colors. I even bought some new jean trousers, dark indigo, long, lean legs which transform my fat little stubs into legs to my chin. I am so happy with my new things or with the cataract on my right eye which is distorting my vision enough for me to think I'm seeing all these things... yeah, I guess it is the cataract, girls. I'll still be the same ole' dumpy goose when we get together in Indy in a few weeks. No surprises.
My mom is on meds now for the memory loss, she has good days and bad. Depression has been a big issue lately, for the first time in her 80 years, she doesn't have anyone to serve. My nieces have gone to school and aren't there much. Mom has had these girls since birth al days everyday, while their parents work. My brother and his wife would eat at her house many nights when they came to pick up the girls. And now she doesn't have anything to do, to look forward to and she's sad. My sister spends several hours each day with her and I do weekends, but it isn't the same for her. Mom is the oldest of 13 kids and started caring for her younger sibs as a toddler. She babied my dad and us kids, waited on us hand and foot, until we married and beyond. Her life has changed and for her this means it is over. She just doesn't know how to relax and enjoy life. It breaks my heart. I pray you all will never know this for your parents, it is such a feeling of loss. Right, Jill? They are here, but not here, with you, but not really. Loosing my dad was much easier than watching Mom go through this.
I have my annual laryngitis again. No voice and coughing fits every few minutes. Fun, Fun. No fever, just no talkee :-). Fall allergies in the Ohio River Valley, I guess.
I hope everyone is doing great, no snow storms yet, no impossible school issues, no family emergencies. I can't wait to sit down with you all and catch up. After a few days of wallowing in self-pity, I've put away my violin and face each day anew and make the best of it. I do everything I'm capable of to make our school a safe environment for our kids and leave it in my office at night. I always find it waiting the next morning, no one has solved the problems, but at least I didn't take them home to Stephen King. I wasn't being fair to him or myself. Every once in a while I have to see I'm not in control, we all answer to God and He has the Plan. Not me. Rather humbling sometimes.
Courtney is coming home on the 24th for a few weeks, yay! Be wonderful to see her again. The computer has helped with emails, Facebook and Skype, but I need to see and touch my daughter again. At least for awhile.
I'm planning to take my girlies to B-ton for an overnight on Sunday. They have plans for tonight and tomorrow, so they won't be free til after church, but we can go shopping and they can swim. Even Caleb is going, I think. He says he is on Fall break, too and wants to go swimming. Pray for me and my chicklets!
Love to all. Talk to me. Hedy

PUMPKIN MADNESS

2009-10-03T19:51:00.003-04:00

Hello Everyone,
Saturday night, my kiddos just left and I'm tired. I didn't think I would get through this past week alive. The weather change has everyone wired, we are doing Aquity Testing, and it is Pumpkin Festival week in the Valley. Chaos rules the land and all young brains turn to mush. I do believe this place could qualify as a research habitat if some enterprising university would look closely. Suddenly an 8th grade Honors Student finds fractions much too difficult to comprehend. A 6th grader challenges ME to a duel. And sadly, a bright, beautiful girl decides to quit eating. My heart breaks and I'm laughing my head off during the same lunch period. Do I look like I can DUEL? And why oh why are bright, beautiful girls in such need to control something in their lives? What is going on that they can't just be young and carefree and healthy? A former student showed up at the end of the day and cried that her babies were taken from her. ..and her husband just got out of jail. ..and she's just been released from rehab... and she has no money and no where to live...can I help her? The last time we saw each other, I gave her $500 to take her babies and go to her mother's up north. She bought pills instead, got busted and lost her kids. Oh, yes, she's pregnant again. Looking at her, I see my last 20 years go up in smoke. Why did I think I could help anyone? The world is way too big and bad to defeat.
Jill, you are right, we can't do this anymore. Let's retire and run away.

The other side of the coin is my family, my friends, my co-workers and most of the kids in my school. I love them for being normal and gentle and supportive and sweet and non-threatening and excited about life and the future. I am so blessed to have everyone of you in my life. Sometimes I get overwhelmed by the others. I'm sorry I let that happen.

Our weather is turning cool and the sky is absolutely magnificent at times. The clear blue is contrasted by the bright white of big, puffy clouds floating through it. The trees are just beginning to turn; each day brings more color. The humidity which seems to blur the air for the entire summer has gone, leaving a clarity that was forgotten. Everyone is struck by it, no one seems to remember it being this bright, this clear last year or ever before. I recall hearing this every fall of my life. It makes me happy that people still notice small things like the weather. We aren't quite so caught up in the rat race that we aren't aware of God's blessings...yet.
I've always felt safe and sheltered in our hills of Southern Indiana. How can the flats of your Northlands offer protection from Nature itself? I suppose the trade off is wide open spaces for hillls and hollows. I wonder if I could have survived in Kansas or Nebraska where the Plains roll on for days without a break in the horizon. I think not. I find comfort in small rooms, small houses, small towns.
I am so excited that most of us are planning to be in Indy on the 13th. Angela, I hope it will work out for you to be with us. Staci, Carrie how about you? I can get a third room, no problem.
Courtney is coming home for a visit on the 24th, we pick her up in Chicago. I hope she stays till after Thanksgiving, but don't know her plans yet. My niece, Stori, adopted 2 Congolese boys and they will be here Nov. 7. Courtney will stay with Stori and her family to help with them for a week or two, I'm sure. They are 6 and 16 months old, Jamey and Stori have an 8 year old boy and a 10 year old daughter. We all are over the moon over getting these babies home. What a wonderful, selfless thing for this family to do. We are so proud of them.
Our family is well, no N1H1, just coughs and sniffles. The boys are growing like weeds and are beautiful. Maddie is as long legged and thin as a colt, doing real well in 4th grade. Mackenzie was inducted into National Honor Society last Sunday in a beautifully quiet ceremony. We were excited and proud that she made it in as a sophomore. Shayla is sporting a new hair style today. Clipped short and spikey, very edgy. She looks much more her age than usual. She will be 21 in December. Such a sweet heart, I worry about her future when Nina and Trent are gone.
Thank you, my girls for letting me bend your ears tonight. I needed to talk. Looking forward to tomorrow. Stephen King and I may go for a long drive. Good night, Gaggle.

GAGGLEFEST FALL '09

2009-09-22T10:11:00.002-04:00

INDIANAPOLIS MARRIOT NORTH
3645 RIVER CROSSING PARKWAY
INDIANAPOLIS, IN 46240

FRIDAY NOV. 13, 2009. TWO ROOMS EVERYONE WELCOME
FOOD, DRINK, CHAT, FUN
WEDDING NEWS, BABY NEWS
NO SHOP TALK, UNLESS ABSOLUTELY NECESSARY

SEE YOU THERE!!!!!

Next Gagglefest????

2009-09-13T21:46:00.002-04:00

Another Sunday night, my girls, the world keeps spinning around to Sunday night. Someone needs to get the next Gagglefest going. I'm the least busy, I know, but don't have a clue when you all could take a break in Indy. I'll just throw out some dates; Nov. 6-7. Friday night and Saturday? F-ball shouldbe over and B-ball not started. I'm not sure about dance or little kids . What does anyone think, can we do this? If not post some other dates. I'll get a couple of rooms on the North side or downtown??? What do you prefer?
We are all terrific, the weather is superb in the south, you all should try it! Jill, have you run off with the office supply man? I'm beginning to worry, Lady. Speak up...soon.
Back to the ZOO tomorrow, for us all. Smile and enjoy it, we could be working for IPS. Now that would hurt. Or DOE, anyone scared by Bennett? He and Your Man Mitch are quite the dynamic duo, what?
Stephen King is headed to New Mexico with the sisters on Wednesday, if you are down this way, stop in and we'll go to the casino or at least to a nice restaurant for dinner. I'm off to bed now to watch Design Star, finale. I thought they were all bad designers this year. But I've watched this far might as well see it through.
Good night, Ladies. Have a wonderful week. Talk to me, Hedy

Bright Skies Overhead and In My Head!!!

2009-09-10T09:08:00.002-04:00

Hello Ladies,

I am posting again to counteract the last gloomy post. Things are looking better for everyone this week. Both our boys are back in school and doing as well as can be expected. Our friend is home from Mayo and is patiently awaiting her body's acceptance of the new meds. We are having amazing late summer weather down here with early fog giving way to bright blue skies and moderate temps... night time brings that cool crisp air of early fall.
My nephew Joe and his sweetie Bonner married on Sunday after an 8 year courtship. It was a beautiful, simple, elegant ceremony at Historic Locust Grove in Louisville, Ky. This is the home of George Rogers Clark and has been kept in pristine condition with lovely gardens. The couple was married on the big front porch while the guests looked on from the lawn. I haven't figured out how to post a picture yet, but maybe later.
Our niece Stori and her husband Jamey are adopting 2 babies from the Congo and were to leave this month to bring them home. The paperwork has been delayed and it looks like another month before our family increases by 2. The boys are brothers, 10 months apart. Ian is 5 months old and Chad is 15. Such cuties. They are living with a foster family that was able to get them out of the orphanage for Jamey and Stori. The orphanages are primitive at best and the boys have both suffered from malaria and others diseases. They are thriving in the foster home. Parker and Liv, the big brother and sister are so anxious to have their new siblings home. Liv is 10 and Park 8 and they have to be the sweetest, most kind-hearted kids around. They know the boys coming means a big lifestyle change for them, but they aren't complaining at all and have helped get the house ready for babies. Liv and Parker picked out the babies' names. Chad is the name of 2 family friends and Ian was chosen because they liked it! Our whole family is counting the days til we can hold these new blessings. No babes since Gavin and he will soon be 5.
I had lunch with Caleb yesterday in his classroom for Grandparents' Day. He is a totally different boy in school; polite and calm, but still the cutest kid in the room!!! Those big brown eyes are killers, I tell you. Friday we eat with Madeleine. next year Gav will be in K, so we will have 3 days at school! Cannot wait. The kids puff up when they introduce their grandparents to their classmates. My heart breaks for those kids who have no visitors. Most young g-parents are working.
Mom is doing better this week, she was at lunch with Rob's little girl, Kylee, who is in Cabe's room. She calls me and Debbie grandma, too, so introductions were somewhat confusing! Caleb kept saying "is not your g-ma" and "G-ma Helen is mine too" to Kylee. Quietly though.

Anna, I hope you are feeling better, Swine Flu? Hope not. Good thoughts and prayers to Angela and the kids with the doctor appointment this week. They are the busiest family I know. Elaine, how is the new job? Kids OK? I've been thinking about little Annie, how's she doing? Kirstie, still feeling good? Staci, it was good to hear from you and thanks for the support. I hope everyone else has settled in to the year without too much difficulty. I am still pleased with how we are doing here. Some bumps in the road, but mostly smooth sailing. We have had substitutes out the wazoo in the middle school, but they've been great. Progress reports go out Friday, then my real work starts; interventions for all the struggling students. Nothing like a mailing from school to get a parent's attention. We are hip deep in the new RTI work and I am not getting much cooperation from my teachers. I don't know how they will handle IEPs for everyone, which is what I see coming down the road. I hope to be out by then. Angry teachers are scary!
I'm home this morning to take Mom to Accountant appointment, she is sure she's bleeding money, but I think she's OK. Our own investments have improved lately. Thank Goodness. Stephen King was afraid he would have to look for a real job! He loves retirement and is busy all the time. Canning, freezing, taking old guys to the doctor, helping nephew rebuild the old homeplace. Loving every minute of it. He is even learning to clean up after himself in the kitchen, a true miracle, I believe.
My family is great, health wise and everyone is busy, busy. Like all the rest of you I imagine. Take good care and talk to me whenever you have a moment. Love to all, Hedy

Where Is A Good Counselor When I Need One?

2009-09-04T12:19:00.003-04:00

I'm writing this from my desk at school, which is something I never do. When I'm at work, I am at work. But this has been a very trying week for us and I'm taking my lunch time to reach out to my friends.

We have another student at Riley with Hodgkins Lymphoma. He is the 14 year old son of one of our 6th grade teachers and one of our maintenance guys. This is the same class that lost a boy the first day of summer break. We also have a 6th grade teacher in Mayo Clinic, she hasn't worked this year at all due to numbness spreading over her body. I am so grateful for the upcoming 3 day weekend; everyone needs a break from the stress.

This boy is such a sweetheart, an All American boy next door. He is a class leader; all the kids admire him for his character, athletic ability and academic strength. He and his older brother a polite, compassionate, and friendly young men. The parents are close friends of everyone on the staff, they are both from local families and have worked here for years. Good People. He had his first chemo yesterday and was very ill afterwards. Today and tomorrow hold more of the same for him.

Teachers have been asking me into their classrooms to speak with his classmates this week; looking at their hurt faces, listening to their questioning pleas is almost as difficult as knowing what the family is going through. I reassure them his doctors are very optimistic and he will be fine after treatment, we discuss all the possible side effects of the chemo, talk about how to support each other and encourage them to pray, if that is their belief. Still in the back of my mind, the depth of my heart, I'm questioning too. Why is this happening? Why do children have to suffer? When do we learn to accept and trust? Life is difficult no matter who you are, did you know that?

The teacher in Mayo is afraid she may have some progressive disease which will completely change her life. She, too, has been a part of our community all her life. She has 2 sons and fears that they will have to watch her lose her battle with this illness.

I wasn't able to finish the post yesterday, too many interuptions, but we got some good news after school. The results from Mayo were that she has the lesser of the two conditions, chronic, but treatable. Answered prayers.

On the home front, Mom is now being treated for early onset of Alzheimers. Her short term memory comes and goes. She was great last night when Stephen King and I dropped her off from dinner. Two hours later she calls my sister in a panic over her meds; Deb got there to see pills all over the counter and Mom not remembering what she had taken. My nephew is getting married in L-ville tomorrow and Deb's day is full today. My brother and I will keep check on Mom till Deb picks her up for rehearsal dinner this evening. I keep reminding Debbie to BREATHE, but she is excitable. I've thought of you, Jill, all week and your momma. Bless you both. I think this is a long, long road we are starting down.
Our kids are great; Caleb and Gavin are less than impressed with school, but continue to attend. We may be looking at homeschool for those two characters!. Mack is loving sophomore year without PE. And Madeleine is becoming a stronger 4th grader everyday. She loves school and being with all her buddies. Stephen King is busy all the time, helping the nephew restore the old home place. And as he always says, "happiest SOB in the world". What a way with words he has!
Courtney is planning a visit home in late October and we are all excited. She will return to Oz after a couple of weeks, I'm sure. She has found her home and is very happy in it. She and Ken are an oddly matched couple, but seem to care deeply for each other and that makes her parents happy. She can apply for residency next year and then be allowed to work in any field she chooses. She makes the most of her temporary retirement by cooking from scratch, knitting and of course reading books by the dozen. They have a small sailboat and take long weekends sailing the many islands in a nearby bay. The pix from her are amazing; the wildlife, ocean and land formations are wild.
It is Saturday noon and I must check out the wedding duds for the man and myself. I'm hoping everything is still fitting, I didn't shop for new and the closest mall is 60 miles away. Don't want to shame the family by wearing our camo or anything tacky. I'm saving that for our Anna's wedding, hehehe.
I hope all of you are healthy and enjoying this good, long weekend with your loved ones. Miss you all and hope we can plan a gagglefest soon. Talk to me, Ladies. Hedy

Congratulations Kirstie and Pat

2009-08-20T20:39:00.004-04:00

What terrific news from the McClamrocks! How exciting to have another gosling on the way. Gee, wonder what gender it will be? All those girls on one side, all those boys on the other? Maybe twins are the answer! You could have knocked me over last night when I got that text, I have been wondering about K's silence lately. I thought she was like the rest of us COVERED up with work, didn't suspect this might be going on. Silly me. I'm happy that you haven't been too uncomfortable yet, Kirstie. Pregnancy can be a joyous time. Mine weren't but that's another story. I'm sure other women have experienced lovely months of morning sickness, heartburn, weight gain, hemorrhoids and all the other special things you have to look forward to in the coming months. Really, it isn't too bad, is it Ladies? Sorry, I just couldn't resist being mean. I know you'll be fine and I know how cute you will look in the new maternity clothes. My daughters-in-law were thrilled they didn't have those ugly things that women wore in my day. Talk about BAD, we looked like pumpkins on stilts. Skinny pants or skirts and tent tops. OK, let's get the name game going for this babe. I say something simple and classic to go with the lengthy Scottish surname. Something like CLAIRE. OK, who is next to suggest their favorite?

Allison says she is finally in the groove, I guess I am too. Our 6th graders are too, too young to be in middle school, but aren't they always? Our new principal is turning out to be a dream come true...supportive, high expectations, no excuses and funny. If I'm dreaming, do not wake me! Really, no kids in the hall, no tardy passes, no nurse passes unless there is blood or broken bones, no gum, no phones, no sticking paper clips in electric outlets. Well the other guy didn't allow that either, but the new one suspends X 2 days for that. And it happened today, in my building, of course. By accident, of course, any one can accidently straighten out a big ole paper clip and accidently stick it into the outlet, of course. Did you know the plastic coating melts when you do that? Yeah, it does and the clip gets all black and fire shoots out. Freaky accident. But,,,I was able to laugh it off to childish pranks, while thanking God he didn't get electrocuted. And Mom has no working phone or emergency number listed. And then there's the girl who showered after PE with her clothes on so she wouldn't be late to class. Yep, in my building. Today. I cannot wait till tomorrow. :-)

The mood in our school is a total 180 from the last 2 years, so much improved. How one person can make such a difference is amazing to me. I feel excited as we plan the next few years. We are being encouraged to use the middle school concept as we have wanted from the start in our new building. I may even have time for counseling! Not that I CAN, but maybe. It feels great to be excited about work again. This is why I started down this road, to feel excited about helping in the educating of young minds, shaping young lives. I'm glad I can do that again before I retire. Administration is not my cup of tea.

I hope everyone has a wonderful weekend, the weather is supposed to be great here in the southland. Finally, a break in the humidity. Stephen King and I may have to do something fun. Talk to me, Girls. Love

WOF and Alien Invasion

2009-08-09T17:00:00.005-04:00

Hi girls,
Has everyone experienced the thrill of returning to work yet? I start my 3rd week tomorrow. Believe me...the thrill is gone. Having the kids show up will be anti-climatic for me. New principal, new student management program, and I'm going back as a 6o year old. Not the makings of a fun year. However, I am determined to be optimist and look for all the positives I can find. Same as last year and the ones before. Who knows maybe this time everything will be alright.
My sister and I went to Women of Faith in Indy again this weekend. It is a wonderful way to prepare for the school year, or any other challenge. Just Deb and me and 12,000 of our best friends gathering at Conseco and sharing moments with a few of the most talented Christian women around. Sheila Walsh is my favorite. She shares such personal, painful stories; I admire her courage so much. Her singing is powerful and hopeful, it just makes you feel better. This year Mandisa was a big part of the gathering. She is one terrific lady, talented, beautiful and strong. And she wears the best. big girl clothing I've ever seen. Steven Curtis Chapman shared his music on Friday evening, his boys play in his band and his wife and girls were there, too. Such a message his Cinderella CD carries. This is something for you all to consider attending. The timing makes it difficult for those of us in schools, but it is worth giving up a half day to attend the Friday night and Saturday sessions. Google Women of Faith and see for yourself.
I have contracted some kind of rash in the last few weeks that is keeping me hot and bothered. It started around my neck like hives, moved up to my cheeks and scalp, now it is crawling down my body like some alien being making me red, swollen and itchy. Plus it looks ugly. Nice image, I know. Sorry, but what are friends for if not to share all life's little joys, bumps and bruises? And red, scaly, swollen, alien beings? I'm sure it will go away soon, as it is down to my knees today. I keep hoping it will crawl away when it gets to my feet. Gotta stay positive :-) I'll talk more later, right now I need to slather on another bottle of Benedryl ointment. Love you all. Hedy

Sunday spins round again

2009-07-26T20:14:00.002-04:00

Sunday night once again. Time seems to be flying in my old...err, mature years. I had always been told this would happen, but thought it was a silly idea. But for the last several years, I feel as if I am continuously experiencing Sunday night. Days fly by, weeks last only hours, years melt together; do scientists know about this? It must be researched and prevented. I DO NOT CARE FOR IT!!!! I want it stopped NOW. I need to savor the summer days on my front porch, wallow in the glorius time spent with my babies on the beach, cherish the afternoons with my mom sitting at her kitchen table reliving our lives, laugh with Stephen King as we go on road trips driving 200 miles for lunch! All of these precious things are speeding past before I can grab hold and slow them down. Is it this way for everyone? I hope not. I hope others have 24 hours in each day to live in the moment; as we all did when we were children. Remember? Those summers that lasted forever, starting early each morning and going on until long after all the lightening bugs had been stuffed into coke bottle lanterns. Playing baseball with the neighbor kids all afternoon, hour after hour, hitting the ball, running the bases. Round n round. Waiting for the Ice Cream man to ring his bell on your street, calling every kid to come and get an icy popsicle, a creamy sherbet push-up or a nutty drumstick. Getting your bath and shampoo in the middle of the afternoon so you would be nice and clean for Bible school. Your mom braiding your wet hair so tight you couldn't smile for hours. And Sunday dinners at your grandmother's house; remember those long afternoons playing with the cousins in the yard, climbing trees, hiding in the wellhouse, locking the little kids in the outhouse, remember? My grandkids come for Sunday and it is over in a flash, the cooking, eating, clearing up, playing in the yard, taking walks...poof and it is Sunday night once again.
I had such a wonderful time at our Gagglefest at the waterpark, Ladies. It was great to visit with everyone, we missed Kirstie and Angela and the kids though. I think Sam and Abbie would have loved the park, hope he is much improved and feeling good again. We even had an escaped murderer close by to add more excitement. All the kiddos were so well behaved and I loved holding Annie and Baby O. Such sweeties. I'm sure you mommies will enjoy the next meeting w/o the kids, but I had a ball. My girls were tickled to meet everyone, too. They were somewhat shocked to see so many of you, they'll never keep you straight. Stephen King refers to you as; the short one, the one who sat beside me, the one with the baby, the young one, the other one with the baby!! Clueless.
I start work Friday, officially, I have a meeting with some parents tomorrow, and a court appearance one day, so really my summer is over. At least I don't have the challenge of a new school, just a new principal. How'd the interviews go, Anna? Hope you got what you wanted. Are you having any lookers at the house? Al, I forgot to ask, is the new school year-round as your other one was? I think you will love the little guys, they are still so innocent. Elaine, hope you find a wonderful office set up just like you need it to be, in both schools! Or even just one. Jill, I'm working on a Friday trip to your town. Love you all. Talk to me.

15 DAYS AND COUNTING.....

2009-07-12T09:30:00.002-04:00

Where has summer gone? I have 15 days of freedom left before it starts all over again. Our board selected our new high school principal last week...the brother of our superintendent! Their father is a past principal and is currently on our school board. Odd?? You think?? Conflict of interests? More just small town politics, I think. I'm going into this year with a positive outlook, assuming everything will be great and ready to deal with...whatever. I don't want to lose track of what is important, the kids. Pray for us, please.
Our county has experienced a horrible loss this week; several families took a horseback vacation to Yellowstone and one of the teens is lost in a flooded river. They've been attempting to locate him since Tuesday, but cannot get to him because of the swift, high water. He is the only child of the family who own the county meat processing plant, everyone knows them here. They are a terrific family. Jared graduated in May from Orleans high school and is just a great kid. Our whole county is praying for a miracle for him. It appears that he was washed into a cave by the rushing water, but they cannot determine if he may still be alive. Pray for them, please.
On a happier note, I am so excited about our gagglefest '09. I do hope everyone can make it down here for a couple of days. Your rooms await you! The kiddos will love the waterpark, I know, but I do want a few hours of good old fashion visiting with my ladies so we can catch up with our lives. I miss you all. Elaine, I feel like it has been years instead of months since we've talked and Anna, I need to see the rock and hear all the details. Allison, I'm so excited about your career change, if only we all were so brave! Kirstie, we haven't had a report on the McClamrock happenings either, surely you and Pat have attended 101 weddings this summer, as usual! Or are all your family and friends married now? Mellissa, how is your sister doing with her recovery? Staci, Carrie, Jill, Janelle, Angela and I keep up on each other on Facebook, but that isn't as good as face-to-face! Cannot wait til the 21st.
Stephen King and I have spent very little time together this summer, oh, we are together each day, but we haven't done anything special yet. We keep planning roadtrips and outings, but things keep popping up to change our plans. Our nephew and brother-in-law have new beehive operations and Steve seems to be the head cowboy on the round-up crew. Everytime the bees swarm they call him to corral them. At first, he was somewhat hesitant, but now he saddles up and takes off. Being retired puts him at everyone's beck and call and he stays busy all summer! He says he doesn't know how he ever had time to have a job! He sure is enjoying his retirement and I am so happy for him. He worked hard long hours for many years to provide for our family and he deserves this.
My girls have secured our vacation house for next year already!!! and for 2 weeks instead of 1. They are getting spoiled, I believe. I've told them this probably stops when I retire, but for now we all love our summer retreats. Anyway, this house is in Florida, just east of Gulf Shores and is bigger than the one we got this year. Get this...it has an "in-law" suite on the ground floor!!! Maybe Papaw will come along, if he doesn't have to be exposed to kids 24/7!!! Maybe for a few days, but not 2 weeks.
Back to work means a redo for my office; I haven't changed the decor for 2 years and think this is the time. I'm seeing some students this summer and have been using the office and considering what needs to be done in there. Still not sure, the kids love the homey feel of my wicker furniture and the rockers, so I won't remove those. Any ideas? Usually I find enough here at home that will work there. I've exciled my round white coffee table to the basement, maybe it will move over to my conference area. I have 2 black and 2 white wicker chairs that could circle it.
I have sessions there and it serves as a "cooling off spot" several times a day. For students, staff, ME. I'd like to have plants in there, but it gets no direct sunlight. There is a big window facing the lobby, but no windows to outside. Anyone know of shade loving indoor plants? that aren't plastic? I take in cut flowers for the desks, but in winter that gets pricey. I want a warm, happy, comforting room; that just happens to be in the middle of a school building!!! Is that too much to ask? Ha.
My sister and I are attending the Women of Faith conference in Indy again this year in August. If you ever get the chance, do it. It is non-denominational and is a wonderful experience for women. Lots of stories, laughs, music, tears, support and love. The two days fly by and by the end you will be lifted up in spirit and ready to face the world with a new understanding and appreciation for your life. Debbie's chuch ladies are planning to sponsor a one day retreat facilitated by Sheila Walsh, one of the singer/speakers next summer. She lost her father to suicide as a small child and her story is heart-breaking/heart-warming. She has an amazing voice, too.
I'll see you all in a few days. Enjoy the week. Talk to me. Love,

Back Home Again In Indiana....

2009-07-02T11:43:00.002-04:00

Vacation is over and that is OK, we had a wonderful time. Everyone played and rested and tanned and ate to their hearts' content. All is good. We can last til next time. We all feel so blessed to be able to do this trip each year and hope eventually the 2 Stephens will join us. Trent comes down for the last few days and has a great time, by the time he gets here the kiddos are starved for a male and we girls get a break. This time the DILs weren't ready to leave on Saturday so they searched for and found a weekend condo that was fantastic. We lolled around the pools and beach for another 2 days. Even the 12 hour drive home was pleasant, no bloodshed, not many tears!
It was good to get home and settled in for the rest of summer, I have 4 more weeks of vacation and hope to accomplish something. I have a baby quilt to finish, another quilt cut out and ready to piece, windows to clean, porches to scrub, flowers to deadhead and on and on and on... Of course, I know it won't all get done, but I'm hopeful I'll make a dent in my list. I love marking items off my list when they are complete. I'm a major list maker, that is how I get through my day, write it down , do it, mark it off, go on to the next. If only life didn't stick its foot in my way, I'd be into the 22nd century by now!! As is is, I'm just clearing off my list from Feb. 28, 1995. hehehe.
I'm looking forward to seeing all the Gaggle in a few weeks. Someone needs to finalize our plans, Ladies. It is nearly impossible to schedule a day for 8 women and 9 kids to meet. There is a special going on at the Waterpark if you all have time for an overnight; $119 for room, waterpark tickets, breakfast. Let me know before the 3rd and I'll book it. I realize that is a major commitment for you, so remember it is just a suggestion. I'm just thrilled we all get together, meeting here is not necessary.
Came home to beans, beans, beans, we canned yesterday til 7:00. Can't just let them waste, they will be wonderful this winter. I like putting things up, just don't want to do it in the BIG way I used to. As we get older, it is sometimes easier and cheaper to eat out. Or eat cereal. Yes, Stephen King and I have become our parents.
My girls gave me a trip to the spa for my b-day last week. A manicure and pedicure felt wonderful and this time I chose color! Not taupe! Silvery champaine and rosy bronze. Of course the canning did a number on the hands yesterday, oh well I was Cinderella for a week! ;-) Now to do something with this hair.It is just long enough to pull back in a knot, but Cabe told me last week; "Grandma, no, just no". I guess that is not a look to go for.
I cannot wait to hear your story, Alison, about how you decided to quit. We've probably all been there and battled ourselves. For the first time, this year had me to that point. Politics has no place in education. Our board interviewed 3 last night for our HS principal position. Two women and the brother of our superintendent. Their dad is on our board, too. I cannot think what will happen if he is hired. One of the women is a teacher on staff and would be a good choice, but we've never had a woman administrator here. And the other is from out of town; our last principal was the first our of towner in our 50 year history and that didn't work out so well. I'm anxious to hear their decision.
Anna, have you set the date? I'm excited about hearing all that news. I'd love to meet Brett, too. How's the job hunt? Hope the rest of you are having a terrific summer. See you soon. Talk to me. Hedy

PRICELESS

2009-06-26T22:37:00.002-04:00

We are in Gulf Shores in our rental house, a top story duplex facing the Gulf. We've had such a good time no one is ready to leave, so we've found a last minute cancelation special on a beach front condo down the street. It only has 2 bedrooms, but for 2 nights grandma can sleep on the pullout couch. The kids are on a crab hunt tonight, Trent came down on Thursday and he's in charge of treasure hunts and other night time adventures. Mackenzie and I stayed in to clean up the kitchen. She is afraid of the dark and crabs so we volunteered for KP duty.
The weather has been hot, record high hot. but not sticky Indiana humid hot. The breeze off the Gulf is wonderful and constant. All the stresses and struggles of the year seem to blow away on those breezes, and my shoulders relax and fall out of my ears. I swear if school had lasted any longer I'd be wearing my head on my back. But no shop talk this summer, we will be back to work soon enough.
Caleb and I both have had birthdays down here this week, I am 10 times older than my grandson this year. He couldn't grasp that idea and thinks I'm just old! Out of the mouths of babes. I'm sure 60 was ancient for me too, at 6. The boys have played and played this week. For the first time, they are on the same wavelink. Usually Gavin is so much younger in his development than Cabe, but this summer he's about caught up. Maddie wants to play with them and do big girl stuff with Kenz and Shay.
Oh, they just walked in; no treasure, no crabs but MADDIE FOUND A NEW BALL. That's her fav toy, a ball of any kind, any size, any color. The beach was completly covered in crabs, Gavin reports. Millions of them, kinda freaky, he says!
Everyone appears pretty red tonight, I think tomorrow may be a 50 day in sunscreen land. The mommas are anal about keeping the kiddos covered, but Mother Nature fooled them today. All five have a rosy glow! Meanwhile G-ma is pretty lily white still.
We haven't heard from Elaine in a while, is all OK in Renssalier? how do you spell that? Kirstie, you've been quiet, too, What's up this summer with you? Can everyone make it to our gagglefest? i was wrong, my appointment is the 11th of July, so anyday the next week is great with me.
I CANNOT WAIT TO SEE THE KIDS, YOU ALL AND ANNA'S RING!!!
I really need to go pack up for the move down the street in the morning. I hope everyone has a great weekend, Anna's headache, Sam's sicky feelings go away. Enjoy, enjoy. Talk to me. Love, Hedy

Did You Know?????

2009-06-12T15:22:00.002-04:00

I've decided to post some probably unknown facts about myself. I've read this on so many other blogs and find it interesting. I hope you all will respond in kind and share with us.

1. I will walk a mile to avoid a spider.

2. I really dislike amusement parks.

3. I love Lily of the Valley flowers.

4. I hold a record for the most 4 leaf clovers found over the summer of 1960.

5. My first car was a show-room fresh yellow 1965 Mustang Fastback and my Dad thought I was worth it. :-) Thanks, Dad

6. My brother wrecked said car when he was 17 and turned it into a grey boy thing. Curse you, Mike.

7. I wish I had named my daughter Rowdy Jo, like I wanted.

8. I wanted to become a doctor, once upon a time. Maybe in my next life.

9. I wonder who I really am sometimes.

10. I wanted to become a nun, once upon a time. Never will happen as long as Stephen King is around.

11. If I ever have money I'll, be surprized!

13. I want to build a house large enough for all my family, so no one has to be in a nursing home.

14. I think I had a previous life as a man, which explains my resentment of the patriarchal world I live in.

15. I only cry when I'm angry.

Some of this is silly, some is troublesome, but all is true. Now talk to me.

Life Goes ON

2009-06-06T21:27:00.003-04:00

June is finally here and how I love it. It has always been my favorite month; so soft and sweet, green and fresh, warm and pleasant. I do hope everyone is enjoying June; are we all out of school? Friday was supposed to be my last day, but now we have computer training scheduled for this week. I may rebel and not show, I have to go back Aug. 1 and that is just around the corner. But I'm determined to enjoy everyday to its fullest, I'm going to wring the pleasure out of each one.
Jill, our friend will not be returning to us next year; he's been removed from his position with us. A rather underhanded act of meanness. He was upset, but took it like the gentleman he is, of course. He is retiring; both kids are expecting in the fall and he's called to duty there. He loves his kiddos and grandson. I'm still concerned for his health, maybe this is for his good. The faculty is having a surprise lunch for him this week. The act was performed after the teachers were gone, but word spread and they quickly planned a tribute for him. I am so proud of them. He was not much force this year, but no one wanted him to be treated this way.
Kirstie, hope you and your school family are recovering. What a shock for his family and friends. We are still suffering here, but moving on. A couple of boys have me concerned and I will continue to keep a check on them this summer. Our community raised enough for his funeral and headstone, everyone was so generous. I love small towns.
We are both tired tonight; Stephen King and my brother, Rob, cleared some fallen trees from Mom's yard today. I trimmed shrubs, my nieces scrubbed the garage. It was our annual Mother's Day gift except my sister and other brother are in Florida and Chicago on vacation! Really, Deb does more than her share with Mom and Mike will help Steve rip out some overgrown landscaping some other weekend. The guys try to keep her place looking nice. It has always been a difficult yard to maintain; for 40 years we've held raking days, trimming days, painting days, mowing days, etc, etc, etc. I never lived there, they moved just after we married and it has never been home to me. Odd, I still think of my childhood house as home. Steve and I bought it when we married and lived there for several years. One of my best friends bought it from us, so I had a long connection to that house. We have lived in quite a few other houses over the years, but I never felt bad when we moved, I connect home with family not houses. Isn't it interesting the differences in people's feeling toward home? What is your idea of home?
Steve's garden continues to look great and we are eating lettuces, kale, cauliflower, green onions from it. The peas and green beans are blooming and we have tiny tomatoes setting on. My flower garden looks like someone administered steriods, everything is monstrous and out of control. I should have divided and moved things out this spring but didn't have time, now there is no room to get inside and do trimming. Flowering bushes are eating the shed and roses and wisteria are smothering the iron fence and one side is carpeted in kneehigh coreopsis!! Maybe next year, but probably not :-) .
The girls, kids and I leave for Gulf Shores on the 19th. We are all counting the hours. Are you planning any summer get-a-ways? I hope we can do another get-together this year. My kids spent today at the BIG SPLASH waterpark and loved it, even the little ones had a great time. You all should try it. Jill loves leaving money here, you might, too. I had lunch at the Casino last week, first time I'd been there. No gambling though, I was on the clock!!! I kept crying for a mojito, but the principal wouldn't go for it. Thought it might look bad for the drug counselor to be drinking in the casino on school time.
Elaine, are you still out there working or have you won the lottery and abandoned us? How are Charlie and the kids? Is little Anna doing OK with the muscle issue? I think about calling so often but don't want to interrupt anyone's schedule. I remember life with kids. Myself, I'm pretty much available 24/7. One parent even called my cell on the first day of spring break as I drove to the coast!!! Surprize, we cannot escape.
Anna, any job news? You'll find something that appeals to you. Would you want a principal position in French Lick? Or junior high social studies with the ability to coach football? Or more correct, a football coach who can teach junior high social studies? Or special education? We have a few openings.
Angela, Janelle, Staci and Allison, I love reading your facebook entries. It makes me feel you are close by and we can keep in touch. The pictures are great, too. I enjoy them all. Staci, what are you up to? "No noticible changes" Are you talking new workout or health?
I miss you all and hope we can have a "gaggling" soon. Talk to me. Love, Hedy

ANOTHER LOSS

2009-05-28T20:22:00.002-04:00

we lost an 8th grader today...moped accident, three others involved not injured. Acting like 14 year olds and got hit by a dump truck. On the first day of summer break. Heart breaking for all of us. You talk and talk, but it's never going to happen to them, they are invincible. Only yesterday I warned them to be careful as they left school. I wonder if they even heard me.

This erases the stress of the long year, the tutoring and monitoring, the worry. We won't have another chance with him again, he is out of our hands now, in wiser, kinder hands...he will be cared for in a way we couldn't give him here. But he will be missed and grieved over.

I hope you all are out of school soon. I finish June 5. I'm really looking forward to some time away from work, time with Stephen King and the kiddos. Our principal said today in our last meeting, "I cannot lie, it's been BAD." Maybe it is bad all over, I don't know, but I do know this has been our most difficult year in a long time. Our staff is so dissatisfied with admin that a gray cloud hangs over us all. I met with my middle school teachers on Thursday and thought they were staging a mutiny. I had to remind them we were here for the kids and they pick up on our negative vibes. I think it trickles down from the top. Hopefully, a long break will help everyone recover his/her spirit.

Stephen King and I went to Portland over the weekend for our niece's wedding. It was so nice; nice hotel suite, wonderful weather, being with family from far away, walking the city, seeing the wild green mountains and rivers around Portland. Such a nice 4 days. And then we return to Houston and Continental's HELL HOLE; THREE PLANES, 6 HOURS AND SEVERAL MILES ON FOOT later we finally take off. The plane we flew in on lost a door! the first plane we boarded had mechanical issues, the second was coming in from Mexico City (swine flu) but suffered electronic problems shortly after we boarded, the third was blowing fuses and had no lights for the first 30 minutes we sat in it, but eventually took off with a load of praying passengers. We were scheduled to get home at 10:30, that became 3:00 AM. I had to be at work at 7:00. Looking like death on a cracker, I was on time. I love road trips...when you use a road. And Courtney thinks I'll fly to OZ, wrong.

We have been eating from the garden this week! yummy. Lettuce, cauliflower, green onions, rhubarb. Everything looks wonderful, but poor yardner weeds daily.
Ladies, I cannot be chipper any longer, gotta go cry awhile and pray for the family that lost their golden boy. Talk later, Love you all.

HAPPY MOTHERS DAY, LADIES

2009-05-09T21:24:00.002-04:00

I so wanted to write this is a girlie pink, but it just would not show, so we have this instead.
I hope you all enjoy tomorrow as your special day; Anna and Kirstie, too. I am not too much for "days" except birthdays. Everyone should have one special day just for herself once a year. I was much better at celebrating my friends' birthdays in my other life. I made cakes, planned surprise parties, lots of cool things. Now I just attempt to remember the day. Usually I don't even send a card anymore. Where do those 24 hours in a day go??? They used to be plenty, now they don't last as long.
Twelve more days to turn our students from uneducated, feral creatures into refined, educated boys and girls. I don't think we'll make it. They have too great an advantage on us...we are outnumbered and they don't have any desire to learn. Last week the whole sixth grade tried to turn in their textbooks. The seventh graders just lost theirs. Fifty percent of the 8th grade will never be mature enough for high school and the rest of them think they're already adults. It's been a baaaaaad year. I laugh somedays and look around for the hidden camera; we have to be on a TV special. Speaking of cameras; I spend an hour after school watching ours for the theft of the day. My next career will be CSI. Is it the same for you? Please, lie and tell me it is.
We are getting our yard and gardens looking decent this week. Stephen King has mowed twice and we bought new hydrangeas for the front porch beds. I've wanted the Endless Summer variety since Kirstie and Pat's wedding. Had to buy them for my Mothers Day gift today. At least I get what I want this way. Of course he will plant them for me, he is useful for the heavy work. My Mom, sister and I shopped at a new greenhouse last week, the best flowers I've ever seen. The woman is a wonder with bedding plants. Everything was so healthy and full and the pots she had filled where beautiful, so creative. We wanted one of each, but held each other back and just got a car full! Deb's been back twice for more. I love springtime flower shopping; every plant offers such promise. I'd have lots more, but Stephen King hates mowing around pots and beds and lawn furniture. Have to keep the yardner happy.
Anna, let us know about the interview. I'll keep you in my prayers for a happy resolution. I was so glad to hear you were called back for a second one, that sounds promising. Maybe you won't have to trick Brett into supporting you, after all, Sweetie. Although you might want to rethink this career choice we've all made while you have an out. It is a tough way to earn a living. Maybe you can find an interior decorating job instead. Or landscaping. Maybe Kirstie's goodlooking dad could use an extra hand? Oh, yeah, Jill wants that job, I forgot.
I had a nice chat with Mellissa on Facebook earlier. I wish we lived closer, she is so fun. She was the first person I spoke to at ISU during those interviews, such a nice lady, she took pity and befriended me. Next get together, we must remember to ask her. I've just discovered the chat button on FB and like it so much more than the commenting thingy. Mell was so impressed with my techno savvy, don't ya know. I had to admit someone else taught me how to use it. Courtney, actually and I had to email her before I could respond. DUMB. Did any of you watch that YouTube video of Staci's? I couldn't pick her out of the dancers, but it looked like fun, she is a crackerjack.
Our vice-principal and I are working on a proposal for an alternative school, any suggestions? Do your schools have one? How does yours work, if so? We want a true educational environment, not just a holding tank for JDs. We had those. Too many of our kids are not being educated and are creating such chaos that the others are suffering, too. I think most of them could be successful if the situation were right, but $$$$ seems to stop with those kids. I'm excited about a workshop we are attending on Wednesday; the principal at one of Bloomington's alternative schools is presenting along with some online curriculum people. Let me know if you have any terrific ideas, please.
The kids and I have our summer house rented and the boys are counting down the days. Gavin has an Alabama Countdown Calendar on the fridge and he crosses off each day. We have to wait til Mackenzie gets out of drivers' ed on June 19th before we can leave. I know it will be more difficult to schedule each year as they get older and busier. Of course, they may decide to take off without Grandma one of these days, too. Our week together is a bright spot for all of us, I hope. I know the 2 Mommies love it. Nina and Shawn danced around the table when we picked the house this year. They, too are ready for a break.
I best get back to the kitchen, I'm fixing desserts for our cookout tomorrow. Our rhubarb has been so good this spring, I'm baking a big pan of rhubarb crisp and some orange/coconut cupcakes. I hope the weather stays pretty so we can be outdoors. I have to scrub my front porch and wipe down the furniture out there before they get here, too. I'll do that while the big guy digs the holes for the new plants. He likes company while he works ;0).
Everyone take care this week. Talk to me. Love, Hedy

How Good is This Day?

2009-04-25T17:33:00.002-04:00

Hello Everyone,
I hope the great north is as beautiful today as the deep south. Bright sun, nice breeze and 85 degrees. If only there were an ocean in sight, this woman would be soooooooo happy. Even without the ocean, it a good. I believe it is in reward for the hellish week we've had here; my car doors were frozen shut one day this week. I swear!!! Me trying to pretend it is spring in my capris and sandals, can even get in the Jeep without slpashing some of my hot coffee on the door handle. But now we've been given a day like this.
We have some plants to set out in the garden when the sun goes down some, you know the shy violet here can't have too much sun, I'll wilt. Or something. Stephen King has done a great job on the lawn and veggie garden, but I haven't ventured out there yet. What with my 15 hour days at public school. He has decided no squash, I am ruling against okra. I really just want tomatoes, green beans and corn, but I know we'll go crazy again and plant all manner of exotic vegetables. Mr. King canned and froze lots of goodies last year, we've almost exhausted our pantry. So nice to have a man that cans.
We have part of our front yard fenced for the sheep right now, how did that happen? People do get a kick out of watching them and the kids on the school bus love it. We only have 6 head here, most are at the farm, but 3 are new lambs and they are cuties. I wish we had room for more, but the neighbor doesn't want to sell and land. I'm working on chickens now, he seems not to be paying attention to my wishes, but I'll figure out something. The boys used to help me, but they are both busy with their wives wishes now!! Ha.
I do hope you are finished with your portfolios now. What a crock, any counselor doing her job doesn't have time for this. Why not reports from your supervisors? I guess Staci, Jill and I won't be bothered by such nonsense, right Girls? ISTEP is this week, of course. Staci, what does Illinois do while Indiana is chasing test scores? Do you just rely on teachers to pass the kids who are progressing and retain the others? Or are there end of course assessments? My daughter is raving about the wonders of Australian schools. They go year round, wear uniforms, are taught respect and actually have high graduation rates. I have started a push for an alternative school in Orange County. My super told me if I could figure a way to finance it, he would take it to the other supz in the county. We have too many kids who do not fit in public school. Whether this is a local phenomenon or generalized all over, I don't know, but these kids are not being served well in our schools. Bloominton has an alternative school the appears to be successful, Alan is involved somewhat in it. They have a full staff and have lots of flexiblity in the scheduling and classes offered. Now to find the $$$$$, SHOW ME THE MONEY. Any ideas? I figure I've given up SADD and AfterProm, I'll have time to build a school, right?
How was your return, Janelle? I feel for you and Olivia, you had such a sweet time together while it lasted. How did she do? The first time I left Trent he was 9 months old and I went to a wedding shower. Sitter called after 30 minutes, he was still screaming; we didn't try again til he was 3. Not the way to do it. I don't think Stephen was ever left anywhere but my mom's. And I wonder why they are such Mommas Boys? What can I say? I was young and apparently none too bright. I'm sure Lady A helped the sitter with Miss Liv. You only have a few weeks left, Mamma.
Any leads on a new place, Anna? Lots of area schools are cutting elementary counselors, too. I wish education could not be touched by this bad economy, surely kids are too important to take with risks their futures. Maybe some older counselor will retire this summer. I have a few young ladies poised like vultures over my shoulders. I'm afraid to drink the water sometimes, hehehe. How about getting pregnant and being a stay at home Mom? Brent up for that? OK, it was just a suggestion. Better you than the 2 freshmen I have this spring. Breaks my heart; I feel I didn't do enough to prevent this somehow. Guess I shoulda been there to hand out the condom.
Alison, I can't believe how fast you all went from basketball to baseball; I'd forgotten life with boys. Caleb is playing Biddy League for the first time this year. I cannot wait to see him in action. He'll be in the bleachers talking to the parents or trying to coach the other kids. He had kindergarten screening and failed the hearing test, due to an ear infection. He told us he was going to get hearing aides and have to go to the speech teacher everyday. "It's OK," he says, "it's only Holly". Holly is their neighbor, the speech and hearing therapist at school. Where the hearing aides came in, no one knows. He called me the other night to tell me Mackenzie was home alone with him and Maddie. I asked if she were being mean to them, he says, "Not Yet!". He has an answer for everything. The school has been warned in advance not to believe all he reports. I believe he will be the next Mark Twain. Or Adam Sandler!!!
How is Abbie doing, Angela? The Easter pix were so cute. The kids have grown so much this year. Do you have a busy summer planned? I love seeing your posts on Facebook. You and your sister are so funny together. My postings are always so boring. Or sometimes a little too sharp. I forget that written words can't show the smile or twinkle in the eye that face-to-face can. I figure no one pays attention anyway.
I'm going to call you, Jill, while you are in FL this weekend. Maybe we can get together with Stephen King. He isn't quite as reclusive in the spring. He can be a bear in winter. Are you OK? You've been quiet of late; makes me worry. Where's Tucker? and why isn't she talking to us? I agree about the Haute thing. If only we could all meet there for weekends and NOT have ISU involved...perfect.
How's the new addition, Kirstie? A pup is more work than a newborn, you know that, don't you? They chew, poop, pee, chew, poop, pee all day long everywhere. Good Luck. Inside? Outside? You probably couldn't tell, but I'm not an indoor pet person. I'm sure your puppy is the absolute best behaved dog ever. You will have fun this summer with him at the lake, I know.
And Elaine, our silent friend, how are you all? Work pushing right along like a freight train on your heels? Middle school is just the best, isn't it. Exiting 8th graders, entering 5 th graders, orientation for parents, 21 Century Scholars deadlines, MORP, freshman schedules. What have I forgotten? Are you doing the 6th grade Scholars oath? Our supe says I have to have 100% signed up by the end of school. Or else??? I'm not sure what that means and not willing to find out. Hope you are enjoying the new bag, it is you; bright, sleek and sophisticated.
Must check on my yard man, he is in the garden with power tools. Talk to me. Love you all, Hedy

Should I Be Worried?

2009-04-14T18:11:00.005-04:00

I think I'm getting old, I mean showing signs of BEING old. I had a run-in with one of our students today, I know, what else is new. But this was different. I'm the original Pollyanna and see the positive side in everything, but all I could think as this was happening was, "what the Hell is wrong with these kids?" You know "kids today", "when I was a kid" all those thoughts were racing through my mind. And I was scared, scared for her, scared for my grandchildren and their grandchildren. Where are we headed as a nation, as a world? When and from where did kids learn it was OK to disrespect adults, curse teachers, dishonor parents? This tiny 12 year old looked me in the eye and said, "No one tells me what to do, especially you. You are nothing to me, I don't have to listen to you." She then proceeded to push past me and take off down the hall. She didn't get far.

The mother was called and took her home. She will return tomorrow. But what then? Will she continue to challenge us at every turn? What do we do when she calls our bluff? She knows we won't touch her, although today I did hold her arms and speak to her for awhile. Her mother threatens to send her to dad, well she wins, that is what she wants. Where did she see such behavior modeled? What was she thinking?

I was heart-sick the rest of the afternoon, even now hours later, I could cry over that small, angry child, defying the world for no purpose, other then she didn't like what she was hearing from an adult in charge. What generates that kind of anger? What stops it? This girl isn't an EH student, just an average, everyday student.

Children must learn to accept "NO", accept disappointment, deal with anger. So many do not, cannot; it is scary.

We only have 6 more weeks of school left. I've never wanted a year to end so much in all my years. I want to clean my house, fluff it up and make it more organized. I want to garden in the early mornings before the sun grows strong. I want to drink cold iced tea on my front porch with my friends. I want to take trips around Indiana with Stephen King. I want my grandkids to spend days with G-ma, picking beans and tomatoes and eating them right there in the garden. I want to spend nights with my mom and listen to her stories of life as the oldest of 13 children. I want to share meals with my sister and brothers and rediscover who they are. I want to grow strong enough to face next year.

We held our AfterProm at the WaterPark last Saturday night and it was a Blast. That place is big and offers something (many things) for everyone. You all have to come see. The kids would absolutely love it. I can see Jacob, Jordan, Trent and Abbie leading the little ones through the mazes, down the Lazy River and out the tubes. They have rafts and ropes and tubs and tubes, buckets and stairs and chutes and ladders all full of water and music and sunshine (or lights at night). Get online at http://www.valleyofthesprings.com/ and check it out. Rooms are reasonable and most have adult beds and built in bunks for kiddos. I am not a fan of amusement parks, but I was amazed by what this place offers. My kids love it. If it had a bookstore, Mackenzie would move in!

Our Easter was good, Shawn and Stephen sang specials at church, we gathered at Nina and Trent's for supper. I'd been up all night at the water park. The little ones hunted eggs and chased the new lambs and tried out the electric fence. Not one but two of them grabbed hold to see if Papaw was kidding about it being HOT. Quick lesson, long remembered, I bet. Courtney called from Oz and spoke to each of us. Her brothers cried a little, softies that they are. I love my boys. Court is having a wonderful time, adjusting well and growing stronger after her stressful few years. I love my girl, too.

Stephen King is at it again, tried to slice off his thumb with a horse hoof trimmer. Blood, stitches, bandages, He is OK. I may not be able to leave him home alone much longer, he needs a keeper. Silly thing thinks he is still 25. Just as crazy as his wife staying out with teenagers all night, what? i love my old man, too. :-)

It was good to share with all my Gaggle tonight. I miss you, Girlies. Nothing like a group of counselors to unload on. Talk to me. Love, Hedy

Reality Strikes Again

2009-03-29T15:36:00.003-04:00

Back to the real world once again. This was a rather odd vacation; started well, we left early Friday morning and made excellent time getting to the hotel in Greenville, AL. Stacy and Jill were following us and Jessie and Kristina caught up at midnight. We four got to leave early because they don't have to find subs for us (impossible to replace the irreplaceable). Saturday was wonderful, the sky soon took on the special light of sun reflecting off of water. I always tell the grandkids to watch for the light when we head south. We zipped past the ragged pine forests and makeshift houses along 65, glad they were not our destination; even sprinkled with azaleas and dogwoods, they have a look of being worn out. Cutting off 65 onto 10 meant the land changed to swamps and canals, challenging the pavement for territory. Mobile was soon behind us as we branched off onto 163, the Dauphin Island Expressway. Little burgs huddled next to the road offering gas and fresh seafood or BBQ and beer. I would have to be starving to enter most of them...cleanliness was not part of the requirements. Some were barely standing but had the "come on in" flag out. Maybe I am a little bit picky, but my Mom wouldn't have let me go there. Soon we were seeing the Bay in all her glory and the super bridge joining Dauphin Island to Alabama mainland. Three miles long and many, many feet high, it hangs like a kid's toy over the water; way, way up...........then waaaaaaaaaaay down the other side. The island seems impossibly small and defenseless from the top of the bridge, one can see most of it end to end. Some in our party were wondering what we were in for.

Sail Fish was the house we had chosen for the week; a new build out on the west end of the island, feet from the Gulf of Mexico, and rising up 3 stories tall. What a sight. The whole south side was floor to ceiling windows and doors, decks and stairs. Inside the walls are pure white, the furniture too with bright aqua and lime accents. We knew we aren't in Indiana when we walked out the french doors and can see only water, rolling in from another world. At night the horizon is circled by the twinkling lights of the oil rigs, which we pretend are castles, not dirty environmental threats. Everyone settled in quickly, picking bedrooms to match personalities. Mine was a tranquil turquoise/lime haven facing the sunrise.

The wind would prove victorious; running us back into the shelter of the house. After 30 minutes I felt as if I'd been attcked by invisible forces, never have I experienced this unrelenting blow. Our sunbathers would crouch as low to the sand as possible to avoid being blown away. Needless to say, the bodies didn't achieve that buttery brown glow we all love. I didn't even get my usual shin burn from my perch on my deck. But all in all we loved the warm sun and sounds and smells of the coast and the time spent together. We laughed so much at each other, told tales of our childhoods, talked shop and tried to solve educations' woes, and even missed our husbands a little. The kitchen was worthy of a chef and I gave a few cooking lessons to the younger set. Simple good food. We ate out more than usual, first at the Best Little Oar House in Alabama, funky round bar and grill on the island with the slowest service in history, but excellent mahi-mahi sandwiches. Later we went off-island to the Pelican Reef for fresh shrimp and the best waitress in the south. She was from the place Forrest Gump claimed as home and shared all her hometown info with us. Although we were within minutes of Bayou P, we never made it there for our hand-embroidered Bubba Gump t-shirts. Maybe next time.

Tuesday night the tide came in rough and fast til it rolled under our decks, scaring the pants off 2 of our ladies. I made a call to the sheriff's office and they declared "no precautions necessary" so we breathed easier and went off to bed. Wednesday dawned bright and beautiful and we thought all was clear, but no, The weather bureau announced a flood warning after 9:00 pm. To keep from worrying we went shopping, we are women after all. Grammas bought too many kids' clothes, newly pregnant lady bought her first baby dresses, so sweet, and the newly wed bought a Coach patchwork bag. I know Angela, that was supposed to be yours. Majitos and burgers at Ruby Tuesdays got us ready for the trip back to the house. The sea awaited us; right beside the steps!!! Okay, this wasn't looking good. Quick packing, checking tide, stripping the beds, checking tide, washing bedding and towels, checking tide, cleaning fridge, checking tide. By 7:36 we were headed north. Running like rats off our possibly sinking ship. The hard rain started in Montgomery and pounded us till the Kentucky state line. I dropped Connie in Dubois County and by 10:00 AM was back to my real life. Spoke to Stephen King for a minute, as he was on his way to the farm to feed sheep and put up fence, then I was off to bed. World traveler that I am, I slept all afternoon, all evening, all night. At 7:00 Friday morning I regained consciousness. What a wimp.
Oddly, this hurried up, wind blown version of a vacation made me even more eager for more, more coastal travel, more rental houses, more ocean views, more time spent in peace and quiet...even with the grandkids!
Everyone buck-up for next week, only 7 more for us.
Alison, semi-state is an honor, too. Sounds like some game!
Anna, enjoy your break, have too, too much fun.
Love to all, Hedy

Lila Here

2009-03-15T16:33:00.002-04:00

I'm feeling very Lila today, must be spring. Or just Abbie's Hello message yesterday; I've easily influenced. Thanks for reminding me of my alter-ego, Sweetie, I seldom let her out in public, this week, I will. I'm for sure taking her along to Dauphin Island with me on Friday.
This week, once again, I've realized how blessed my family is. We have had so many friends facing down cancer lately many for a repeat visit. I urge everyone to pray this dreadful disease will be defeated soon. No one seems immune, regardless of one lifestyle. So many innocent children suffering such pain. Makes me ashamed to whine about anything in my life.
Stephen King and I have survived our empty nest for once again. Life goes on; Courtney arrived safe and sound in Oz and loves it already. She has called urging us to plan a summer trip downunder. He's ready to go, I will need more time to consider being that long in the air, over the ocean, no way out. I probably won't be going soon. She has posted some pix on her blog and she and Ken, her host, are going to Caloundra for this week to sightsee & visit family. It is a resort area up the coast from Brisbane. We all grew up on tales of Brisbane and the surrounding country from our cousin Edna, a war bride. She always made her homeland sound like paradise. That and her fascinating accent made all of us girls want to go to Oz. Ken is Edna's nephew and has visited Orange County many times over the years. He and Courtney have always been friends. So she will not be on her own too much. Makes me feel better about the whole trip.
Connie and I are taking off on Friday and driving to Greenville AL. for the night. The others will come down after school and get there late into the night, I've found that is too tiring for me. I have to sleep all day Sunday unless I get rest on Friday night. Vacation days are too precious to spend asleep. Connie has a convertible and the last couple of trips we have started out Saturday morning with the top down, now that is a vacation starter for sure. When you girls get older and your kiddos are grown, I hope you take vacations with friends. Although the friends going with me are young, 2 in their twenties, 2 in their thirties and Connie who is 10 years younger than me...enough said. I'm so blessed to have all you young people in my life. I do enjoy being part of yours.
Janelle, I want to see the girls in those hats, I do hope they get to wear them before it gets too warm. I'm having Veronica make one for a May newborn in a light weight yarn. I think they are so precious. Much better than those strange headbands. Stephen King would not allow our grand daughters to wear those things. He used to take them off of Mackenzie and hide them from Shawn. They weren't around for our kids, much like Pampers and baby wipes and onesies. I still prefer cloth diapers on babies, but the plastic coverups were terrible. I saw some new versions on a natural clothing website, they looked soft and comfy. Would you like some for Olivia? Or Annie? Don't want to wash diapers? I cannot blame you, there is nothing fun in that except hanging them on the clothes line and watching them blow in the sunshine. I used to love that. But I used to make our bread and crackers, too. Maybe I was alittle odd?
Has spring come to the North? I saw a big rain had done some flooding up there. We have dodged storms lately, damaging winds north and south of us last week. It will be interesing to see if the Valley can avoid major flooding this spring. Hey, the WaterPark has opened, lots of traffic on Friday, I haven't been in town since, but they were booked for the weekend and expect a strong spring break. I hope it is successful. The economy is hard on this area, all industry is struggling, if not closed. The casino seems to be doing OK, but the resorts are empty alot. The Pete Dye course opens later this spring, it should draw in lots of retired old men and their wives. I wish we had some shopping venues to draw their $$$$$. The hotels have nice shops, but the community has nada. Everyone is afraid to invest in a small business venture here/now. I'd love to open a quilt/book/sandwich shop, but have neither time nor money.
We should plan a get-to-gether this summer, with the lake and waterpark your husbands and kids could have a blast. We could just hang out in the vinery and bars, snacking and drinking, hehehe. Really, I'd love it. No bars, maybe the Vinery for a nice lunch. And a giant cook-out at my house!!!
Your comments on FaceBook entertain me; Staci, have your eyebrows relaxed yet? I could just see what you meant. But in general, I still don't care for FB. Too, too something. And those portfolios, I don't know if it is worth the effort for me or not. I'm so tired of doing the work and getting shafted, but if I would get "credentialed" then I'd need it. Of course, we had so much guidance on the whole portfolio issue, it should be a snap, right, Gaggle?
Do you know any fat old lady who has been successful at losing weight? I need inspiration. Not from young people, from someone like me. Tired, out of shape, gray all over. I intend to start walking on the beach in AL, but that is only a week and I'm sooooo out of shape my walks may be 10 yards at a time. In my next life I want to be an athletic type, not a bookish couch potato, please.
Anna, any job prospects? I liked the WalMart comment, but I think you can do better than that. SteinMart at least. Any counselors retiring in your area? You'll find it, I know. You can always pull something out at the last minute, Girl. Just like a paper or portfolio.
Everyone take good care and have a great week. I'll try to post from way down south next weekend. Love, Lila

GQE? Anyone? Anyone?

2009-03-08T17:03:00.004-04:00

I trust everyone survived Step 1 of the Great Spring ISTEP Experiment? It was pretty intense for our kids; many of the top students were unable to complete the Math portion. Some of the English/Language Arts were grade appropriate, but some were more suited for college freshmen. My 504 kids took all the time they could and I feel they all tried very hard. Our Special Ed kiddos were lost from the getgo; writing about cats and dogs, rather than how to seek career resources. I'd like to speak with the people grading those and explain that they read at 1st and 2nd grade level, if they can read at all. I realize everyone has the same stories of your own students, but it just breaks my heart to see them struggle in vain. You cannot get blood from a turnip.

Tomorrow we start the GQE, of course, which is really stressful. Our second and third time testers have either given up or cannot sit still. A roughweek ahead. There must be a better way to assess learning.

Oh, here come my kiddos, ready for supper; white chili, fruit tray, lemon bars and key lime cheesecake. Talk more later.

Friday was Mackenzie's 15th birthday so we celebrated tonight along with a going away party for Courtney. Those 15 years have flown by; you think your kids will be little forever but that time flies. I was the first to see Kenz's red curls as her head crowned during birth and she's been my special angel ever since. We speak the same language, without words. I thank God for her everyday and pray He will give her a healthy long life. She is bright and caring, while spoiled and self-centered! A regular teen in many ways, wise beyond her years in others. She worries about her health too much and doesn't sleep well, afraid, I think, that something might happen during the night. Kenz has a wicked sense of humor like her Dad and smiles all the time. Her brother and sister love and look up to her even though they torment her constantly. She loves God and proudly wears her crosses, uses PTL as her favorite response and calls out the kids who swear around her.

Courtney is packed and ready to go on her walkabout downunder. She has relented and is taking a suitcase plus carry-on, not just carry-on. She plans on being gone up to a year, she has a 12 month Visa. Please, add her to your prayers and her parents. I think I'll be fine as soon as I know she is safely there. I don't like flying. What were the Wright brothers thinking? God didn't give us wings for good reason. I hope you all will check out her blog.

I'm gonna make one more sweep of the house and head to bed, that lost hour last night is catching up with me.
Kirstie, you did fine, do not let them intimidate you into crossing the line. Call anytime. I'm always here for you, Sweetie.

Have a pleasant week, Ladies. I'm counting down to the 20th and hanging on. Love you all.

Could It Get Any Better Than This?

2009-03-02T15:57:00.005-05:00

I don't know about the rest of the world, but this is the week I live for... basketball sectional "spirit week" and ISTEP. An educational dream. Today was Jersey and Jeans day, pretty mild attire. Just wait for Wacky Wednesday and Pajama Day, now, that's when I want to be in a small room with 8th graders attempting to answer questions on "slope intercept" and "the narrator's unstated message" . Yes ma'am. Sign me up. Well, if we had wanted boring we'd have joined the military, right? I'd rather explain to a 14 year old that you have to convert before comparing inches and feet in cubic terms. Or that all the money taken in is not profit, someone has to pay for the damned materials. And of course, answering the most important query of the day, "Do we get snacks?" The one saving grace is a professional development 1/2 day thrown in the middle of this week. Shoot me now.

And how was your Monday, Ladies?

Anna, that is wonderful news or near news! Hope no students were lurking near the jewelry store, you know how rumors spread. A wedding will send them into outer space. I'm so happy for you; finding your other half is right up there with chocolate. I know Stephen King has made my life so much happier than anyone else could have. Together we have overcome obstacles, and dodged many bullets which would have broken other couples. Sharing the highs and lows of life with someone makes you strong and your love stronger. It is so exciting to be and the start of your life together. Bless you both.

Twenty questions??
Are everyone's kiddos OK this week?
Lady A and Baby Olivia becoming more settled?
No ER visits for Jordan and Trenton lately?
That seems to be a turn around for them, maybe they've broken the curse, Allison.
Is Abbie still showing improvement with the increase in meds?
Is Sam still into the alligators? Crocs?
How is therapy going for Annie? Is that something you and Lizzie and Jacob help her do? I think it would be great if the big kids could be part of it, don't you? I know we all would turn Joseph's feet in whenever we sat down to play with him. (my nephew who had splayed ankles)
Any signs of life in Andrew? good grades? doing laundry? cooking?
Mine is leaving next Tuesday; we may have to sedate her father. I'm resolved that she will be happy and safe. What else can we ask? I will miss her though, she's lived with us these last 5 months and it has been so fun. Now I'm alone with Stephen King again.

I think FaceBook is a little creepy; like you need to close the blinds, so many people are waiting to see (hear) what you're doing. Really, Jill, think before posting any kind of scores or quiz results. Tiger? I'm more Dead Horse. And FaceBook hasn't helped us find homes for those dogs!!! Did you all see Court's posting of Hank's pix? Mule ears, I telling you. I don't know what Stephen King will do if she doesn't find someplace for them, but I do know I'm the one who will have to hear him griping about them til she gets back.

I've been reading some of Susan Corso's stuff lately. She is a counselor, spiritualist?? Interesting thoughts on personal responsibility, blaming and accountability. Written in layman's terms, too. Not so bizarre or academic. Her "God's Dictionary" is enlightening. But so many people are putting their thoughts out there that it all begins to sound the same. My Trent reads Deepak Chopra and the Dalai Lama, both favorite's of mine, but sometimes too
d-e-e-p to grasp. This lady is more American in her thinking, I suppose. We tend not to embellish as much as the Eastern writers do.

I sometimes get as much from reading blogs as text from "authorities". One in particular www.down-to-earth.blogspot.com is wondefully interesting and informative. Written by a lady in Australia about how to live a green life. She and her husband are retired and live a busy life of gardening, perserving and making-do. The photos are great, I love her chooks and dogs. And she shares recipes and knitting patterns and lots of wisdom. Her sons are grown, but show up for advice and supper every so often. Several of my friends are reading her now, as well as my kids.
I still love the decorating blogs and crave new furniture, a redone kitchen and bath and my own beach house, but the real stuff is where I look most often. Never too old to learn.

Have a glorious week inspite of the DOE, Ladies. Love, Hedy

Fun Time

2009-02-24T09:19:00.005-05:00

The weekend was such a good time, I'm glad everyone could make it ( Angela we missed you). After conquering the weather, I don't see how you all stand such cold, long winters and that wind was impossible. My, oh my. Our hills break alot of the bad blows, I reckon. But it was worth it just to hold Baby Olivia. You forget just how unbelievable soft babies are when yours are 4/5 years old. I miss babies. And rocking them. The walking the floor, I do not miss. And Janelle with all that baby belly gone already? Good work, Girlie. I hope the trouble on Sunday is easing and the kiddos are being served by someone. A loss in the life of a broken kid can really take its toll. I'm sure you were a great comfort to them. Sorry we missed Lady A at breakfast though. The WaterPark in late spring might be another gathering? They open Mar. 25.

I'm writing on my lunch break from zoo duties. Is every other school crazy this week? We just had to separate a couple of 6th graders in the throes of love. Making out in the hall at 11 years old. I cannot wait to make those calls home; just how will a parent respond to the news? The teachers are blaming my sex ed class from last month on the "turn on". Hehehe. Like kids need an inspiration. Oh, gotta run. Someone has written nasty words in the girls' restroom...again. Last week it was a"$5 Footlong" drawing. I cannot even repeat what they wrote this time. My word, maybe education should start before 6th grade. I hope this was left by high schoolers not one of mine. I'm way too old for this stuff.

Madeleine has gymnastics tonight, can't wait to watch. She is such a monkey. I'm afraid her communication skills have hit a plateau right now, she seems more quiet than usual. I keep praying for that wall to break and Maddie to talk a blue streak. I know the wall doesn't exist and she has to build her communication skills, but a grandma will dream. We just want the best lives for our kids; all our chicks to be happy and healthy.

The dream around here is of Spring Break and our house on the beach. The ladies are counting down the days and posting weather reports of our coastal paradise. I highly recommend an all ladies vacation. I love traveling with Stephen King, but with friends you don't have to make sure everyone is happy and fed and dressed appropriately. And no one stands behind you huffing under his breath when you just sit and stare at the ocean, or eat breakfast at noon, or read for 15 hours. An all girl trip is just different, not better, necessarily.
My sister is in Florida with a friend and keeps texting the temperature to me. I'm about to cry, I like 78 degrees, too. Ah, only 23 more days and I'll have it all; sunshine, ocean breezes and peace. Priceless.

I trust the rest of the week will be good to everyone. Stay safe and warm. Love, Hedy

A Gaggle-fest

2009-02-16T13:53:00.003-05:00

Hope everyone is enjoying a sunny winter day off; our school had a make-up day today, but I stayed home and nursed a headache. Just tired I think, lupus has been flaring up some lately. But I'm sitting here drinking grape juice and eating Ruffles, feeling better. Maybe it's my diet? It is a cold, lovely day, only 30 but bright and sunny. I cannot wait for warm days; just a bit longer til Spring Break

and The SailFish. That is the name of our house on Dauphin Island this year. It is on the beach and is decorated in turquoise and white. Loverly. Anyone else going on Break this year? I do hope so.

We'll get together in Lafayette on Saturday, right? I will reserve a couple of rooms today and let you know which hotel. Kirstie, do you have any sisters working in the lodging industry now? I'll look online for something roomy with nice bathrooms. Courtney and I will probably drive up early that morning and meet you all at the hotel, since I know nothing of the area. Definitely Cracker Barrel for Sunday breakfast, Angela are you ready for the spill of OJ or milk or coffee? Wear something old, Sweetie. Maybe that is just a thing with waitresses in the Haute.

Stacy and Carrie, want to join us? You are welcome to if it is possible to get away. It will just be talking, eating and maybe a little shopping, but I can guarantee a great time. We would love to see you both. Oh, there may be wine involved.

I made the best banana pudding tonight with peanut butter Girl Scout cookies, the recipe in Southern Living called for Nutter Butter cookies, but I had 30 boxes of GS so I used those. Yummy, yum. I only allowed myself a small dish, but I wallowed in it. Of course tomorrow it may not be good after a night in the fridge, but warm...it was Heaven.

I am cooking so much more this winter than I have in awhile, having someone else here makes a difference. Poor Stephen King will go back to cereal and salads when Courtney leaves for down under. That is Mar. 10 ,not very long now. I look towards that day with excitement and dread. What a wonderful adventure for her and yet, that is so far from home. She has started a blog "Courtney's Letters Home" to share her adventures with everyone. But I imagine we will be calling just to hear her voice. MotherGoose/MotherHen, whatever.

My Madeleine starts gymnastics this week, finally got Momma's OK. We are so excited, it is going to be our special time together with supper afterward. I know Maddie will love the action, she is a monkey, climbing anything in her path. I'm alittle concerned about the routines, she isn't used to being in a structured playtime. I'm hoping this will help develop her speech, there is a tie-in between motor skills and language. You can see the thoughts fighting to get out of her head sometimes, breaks my heart. She is such a sweetie-pie. I think of Abbie; so smart and vocal, yet struggling with motor skills. No one said life is fair, I know, but we keep looking for the next answer, don't we, anything to help our babies.

Any leads on the job scene for next year, Anna? Are your administrators concerned about consolidation? Ours appears to be, but I think he'd be a shoo-in for county super, if it comes. Who knows, Mitch has moved other mountains. I just want an alternative school in our county for those kids unable to make it in public school. Our number grows and grows. Dysfunction seems to be rampant in homes, schools and communities. We lost another young one to drugs this weekend. What to do? Who to speak to? Where to start? I've been fighting this since the eighties without making a dent in the numbers being hurt by drugs. Each month I read DFC repports of families torn apart, kids abused, even killed because of the hold drugs have on them, what is the answer. I'm afraid I'll never see the end of them. If only everyone could see the life beyond drugs; the ease and peace their lives could have then, but I guess they can only see as far as the next fix. Poor souls looking for happiness in an empty promise.

Stephen King is watching "Forest Gump" again. How many times??? He laughs and cries in the exact same spot each time. The old softie, gotta love him.

See you all on Saturday. Cannot wait. Love and peace, Hedy

Sunshine on my shoulders makes me happy....

2009-02-08T17:54:00.003-05:00

I really wanted to post this in yellow to symbolize the sunshine day we have enjoyed here today, but yellow is a no show on white background and changing background is another little thing I'm not sure of. So GREEN, lovely Spring GREEN. I have to tell everyone that Tucker finally came through on her multi-year promise to stop by and see me while they were visiting at the casino. We had lunch today at Sinclairs, a ritzy dining establishment inside the West Baden Resort. You know the 8th Wonder of the World with the Dome? It was just great to see Jill and meet Craig and their friend Connie. I took Courtney with me, Stephen King went rabbit hunting, and of course she loved Jill. Who doesn't?? Except for... but that's over, right? Jill's Dad wouldn't leave the Casino to come eat, rather like Mr. King in personality, I'd guess. Anyway, I'd love it if all of the Gaggle could visit our scenic area and meet my family. They really exist and are sweet people. I think ;-) But I will come north on the 21st because of my overwhelming desire to cuddle Miss Olivia and see the rest of you birds.
Has everyone seen the pix of our lovely Little Livy? Such a pretty girl, she is a perfect fit into that family, eh? Your daughters are beautiful, Janelle.
Angela, what is the news on Abby? Still progressing well? She's in my prayers and praises daily. How's the job situation?
And Elaine, what's up with you and yours? Is Little Anna still doing well with the PT? Isn't it amazing how quickly therapy can bring things right? Can't wait to see you.
I'm always thrilled to hear from the younguns, Anna and Kirstie, keep Mothergoose appraised of what's new in your lives. I worry when you two are quiet. Hehehe.
Did Trent and Jordan get to see the sun today, Allison? I love it that we can check in on FaceBook, too. Of course I'm not the typical face there and just wanted it to view the pictures of the baby. I was so surprised at the number of people I knew on there. Always the last to know, once again.
Gotta go, Ladies. I'm so tired I cannot see straight. My kiddos just left, Madeleine and I watched gymnastic videos, she's enrolling this week. Caleb performed as we searched for practice instructions and everyone else watched the Grammys in the other room. That's where Cabe was getting his clues from.
Have a peaceful week, love to all.

Summer school....

2009-01-31T12:00:00.002-05:00

Summer school indeed, we will be going all summer at this rate. Four consecutive snow days. Actually, snow, ice, snow, ice days; 5 inches of snow followed by 2 inches of ice followed by 7 inces of snow topped off with 1 inch of ice. Quite a glistening scene outside the windows here in the Valley. I haven't stepped outside my door since last Monday and am beginning to get alittle squirrely. I've cut out a new quilt, shopped QVC, bought sandals for summer, the Inaugural necklace, jeans which quarantee a slim look and moved over to Amazon for some reading material; The Middle Place and some other must read that I've forgotten the title of. Stephen King is about to burn the card. We were blessed not to lose power, our kids were without for 3 days. Many still don't have any.
I am waiting to hear from our Momma re: Homer/Harriet. I did the quilt in faded pinks and browns, but can quickly do a blue one if needed. I did dream of the little one the other night; boy oh boy, that's all I can say. Of course, if my memory serves me, I thought Lady Avery would be a Waldo, too. I just love those little boy babies. Although I wouldn't trade the memory of Courtney's birth; I could not believe we'd had a girl. Such a rush of tenderness toward that little bundle of pink skin and red curls, I cried and gushed over her for hours. My boys on the other hand looked like athletes at birth; Stephen at 24 inches, with those long arms and legs could have shot 3 pointers by the time he was a day old, and Trent at 9 pounds was the spitting image of a linebacker. All boy, the both of them. Small wonder it took 6 years before we tried for another.
How about the 21st? Where would be best to meet? Lafayette is OK by me, I want to have Courtney come along. She is leaving March 10 for Australia and I want you all to meet her. Plus, traveling with someone will mean I'll be sure to fight the weather, otherwise I might chicken out like last winter. I feel more comfortable driving north since we took that trip to Janelle's this summer. We will probably get a room wherever we meet and stay the weekend. Any nice places that aren't full of Purdue people? If anyone else wants to stay, we will share or get another. I'm so looking forward to seeing you all and catching up.
Staci, want to join us? We'd love to see you and it sounds as if you could use a break. Could you meet me in B-ton and ride up? I realize you all have family commitments that I don't, but I hope everyone can make it. Enough begging.
Anna and Kirstie, how goes young love? Made any decisions on next year, Anna? Keep showing them what YOU do, my Girls, and the appreciation will come. Again, we all need to educate our co-workers on what we do for them as well as, the kids. Although after all the years, my people are seeing the big picture. It is the "P----" that refuse to open their eyes. Dead Horse, I know. I'm over it. Moving on...
This weather has allowed me to really look at our house and make some decorating decisions for summer. The bathroom is going black and white. We desperately need a new floor in there. Black and white square tiles, I think. The walls are cream tile about 5 feet up then 4 feet of wallpaper, cream with black sailboats. Sounds bad, but really not. Now the vanity, that's bad. Fake marble and ugly faucets. I'm thinking white terry shower curtain and rug to disguise the dreary tub.
I am looking for a table for the parlor to use for sewing. That room is all rocking chairs and a library table with the computer, aqua wicker table and painted book shelf. Grandma's lace curtains at 4 big windows, it is a calm, pleasant room. Quite the contrast to the living room with the navy leather recliner and 40 inch flatscreen. Not quite a man cave, but close.
Our kitchen needs deconstruction, but Stephen King is in denial about it. This may take all of the wily female ways to get accomplished, but I won't give up w/out a fight.
Right now the poor guy's is in fiscal shock over the economy. Retirement is treating him well, but he fears his future outlook. We've always been conservative spenders, and now he borders on tightwad. :-( Yet he is looking at more livestock, go figure.
Gotta go, I guess. Daughter is insisting we go see a movie and she has invited my Mom along. Three generations of womanhood; look out world.
Everyone stay safe and warm. Love, Hedy

2009-01-25T11:14:00.002-05:00

Is this the week for a new baby? Praying for a peaceful, pleasant and painless delivery, Janelle. Hope to get to visit with you in Febuary and hold the precious little one. And gaggle with the rest of the group, too. Are we looking at the 21st? Maybe?
I've spent most of this weekend reflecting, thinking about how lives cross and separate and come together again. Our school has been involved in a fund-raiser for one of the students with cancer all week. We've had such a good time and the kids have jumped on the bandwagon in a wonderful way. Coin contests between the classes, with the seniors finally figuring out the 25 pennies weigh more the 1 quarter, spending $1 to wear your hat on Friday, teachers paying $2 to wear jeans, a chili supper before the home game with our nearest rivals and culminating with the shaved head of our coach because $3500 was gathered over our goal of $1000. Goody got to be there for a few minutes despite having a treatment earlier in the day that was pretty devastating on him. He accepted his checks with an enormous smile and big tears. He left the gym floor to the roar of the crowd chanting his name in support. Small town America at its best, I believe.
In horrible contrast, we also lost one of our kids that day; a former student overdosed at a party at one of the college campuses. One of my "kids", Grasshopper was the model student during high school. He worked or played in my office his junior and senior years as our aide. He provided hours of hijinks, he was a clever practical joker and big hearted clown. I gave him his nickname when he would spring up from the bench every time the coach motioned him into the game. He wasn't a natural athlete, but he had a heart as big as the gym and everyone loved it when he got playing time. I witnessed him with other in my office, sitting on the floor, crying, asking them to stop the drugging or drinking, encouraging them to be happy like him, drug-free and sane. He offered to stay by their side 24/7 in order to keep them clean, to fight off others who pressured them to use. He hated drugs and alcohol...then. I don't know what happened, when we lost him; he graduated and stopped showing up around his friends, hanging with those he had no time for in the past. He got hooked, dragged into the world of drugs and alcohol and violence. He refused to speak to his old mentors, left his family to wonder where he was, he would run if approached. It broke our hearts, but at least he was alive and that meant there was hope he could turn around, clean up and be himself again. Friday took that away; he is gone, betrayed by the comfort he sought from drugs. I don't know what to do for his Mom, his sisters, his family who I work with everyday. I don't know what to do for us all, who lost a shining star to the dark night. I am sorry, Grasshopper, sorry we couldn't save you.
I'll watch the kids on Monday, those who knew him, those who didn't but pretend to; watch them grieve and cry yet miss the real tragedy of his death. It could be them, any of them who gamble with losing control and escaping, even once. Adolescents all, they will feel the pain for themselves, for how they are affected by this loss; they won't see the bigger tragedy of anyone being so lost, so hopeless he couldn't turn to anyone for help. I dread Monday, I dread keeping myself from screaming out to them, "look, open your eyes, it will happen to you. He is gone for no good reason, it is senseless to lose someone like him or YOU." Say a prayer for us all, my friends, please.
Stay safe and warm this cold week. Give us a shout, Janelle, when Homer shows up. Love you all, Hedy

Weekly Update

2009-01-17T11:23:00.003-05:00

Happy Saturday morning, Gaggle,
Everyone had enough of winter yet? Jees Louise, it has been cold here. I cannot imagine how you LapLanders survive this all winter. We are usually experiencing 30s/40s not 0-10s. We had two delayed openings because of the health hazard of having children waiting for school busses in negative temps in the dark. I could totally vote for a 10:00am start everyday. Say, 10:00 to 5:00, my kind of day. I'm always at work till 5:00 anyway so why not get to sleep in ? I think I'll work up a purposal for the board meeting. Ah, maybe not. They haven't been receptive of my ideas lately.
Angela, I cannot tell you how thrilled I am to hear of Abbie's amazing results. Prayers answered, undoubtedly. Give her a hug from Lila, please. That girl deserves a party. You sounded so good on the phone, I am happy to hear the joy in your voice again, my friend.
And Miss Jill, your news of the parents was good to hear. I hope they continue to do well. Dad does deserve to get his life back, even just alittle. He isn't short-changing Mom by enjoying things that she cannot. I was afraid you had joined a convent or taken a vow of silence, my girl. I would love a Feb. party in The Valley, of course. But I am willing to travel north if the others cannot do this. Janelle has to bring Waldo wherever we meet. I feel such an urge to hold a newborn and don't have one scheduled for awhile around here. I have some "LIFELIKE BABIES", but Stephen King gets nervous when I go around with one in my arms for an hour or two. He calls the kids and whispers to them about hospitals and medication. Why? I'm just revisiting the past. Maybe not.
Anna, did the move-in happen? Wow, what a giant step for you and Prince Charming. Good wishes, Sweetie. I saw a counseling position in Wheatfield, is that anywhere close to you? Just appy to places that seem good and let God handle the rest, He knows what's up for you.:-) Can your tear yourself away for a weekend in Feb? Or will we have a Gander along? Whatever works for you. I would enjoy a pix of the Man.
Elaine, where are you? Buried under ISTEP and RTI forms, like me? I spend an ungodly amount of time on RTI now. I think maybe our co-op is playing me for a fool, they aren't doing much with all this paperwork. I need a secretary so bad, I'm tempted to hire on out-of-pocket just to get caught up. My classroom time is down to zilch this semester, except for sex education. I've pretty much taken over the discipline at the middle school, too. Our vice-principal is just too busy to cover it. I promised myself this would never happen, but what are you going to do? But you, my dear, need to set the boundary on getting out of that office for hometime with the kids. Is Little Anna toddling yet? Where did the baby go?
Caleb and Gavin have spent so much time playing in the snow, Alison, it makes me think of your boys. Do they ice skate, too? Ours haven't experienced that yet, but their daddies did as children. My guys couldn't wait for the pond to freeze. No pond now :-( for the grandkids. Have you had snow days out yet?
How's it going, Staci? Meds getting balanced yet? I hate the side effects of immune disease drugs, almost as much as the disease. Get plenty of rest on weekends, Kiddo, without that your week will be way too long. I make myself spend either Sat or Sun in bed. But I'm lucky and my family doesn't need me constantly as yours does, I know. Hope JD and family are super supportive to you. There is so much crap involved with auto-immune disorders; somedays I think I'm losing my mind. The good news is You Don't. Take good care.
I am always so thrilled to see the responses from you during the week, it makes me feel connected to my buddies. I've started piecing a quilt and doing an embroidered pillow top for my sister this month. TV holds no draw for me anymore and Stephen King watches basketball 24/7 anyway. Courtney is a reader and movie buff, she uses the TV in our bedroom, so I'm left to create or surf the net. The creative stuff is fun but slow. I'm embroidering a lage cross on some linen and garnishing it with old buttons and ribbons for Deb. Poor girl has been ill since Christmas; shingles, flu and sinus infection. Still not up to par, but slowly recovering. She loves quilts, pillows and such, but hates sewing. Buck has a sewing kit because she won't sew on buttons even! She is an artist with oil paints though. Her landscapes are breathtaking. I have three over my bed that you could practically walk into. She takes you to that place on canvas. Both my brothers are artistic too. Me, I can draw a dynamite stick person. Another bit of proof that I was adopted. That was my wish as a child when those guys would bother me; I'd imagine I wasn't really a part of those wild creatures, but a foundling from England or somewhere, captured to be a slave to the annoying kids. Maybe medication would have worked back then, too. Anyway sewing is peaceful for me, rather like meditation once I get into it.
I'm also reading a bit. My nephew gave me "A Thousand Shining Suns" last week, very good and somewhat educational. Fiction based on truth. I've read several books about Afganistan/Pakistan lately, such a desolate land yet rich with life. Americans really don't know enough about the world; at least not this American.
I lost my color again. Is it me? or my machine? Don't answer that.
Anyway, we see such a narrow slice of the world here. It is painfull to read of the struggle others have just to stay alive and keep their children feed and somewhat safe. Americans should be praising God 5 times a day for our blessings, instead of just on Sunday morning. I am encouraged by the current wave of interest in the spirit we are experiencing in the US and hope the new President will give us reason to explore our spiritual side by exhibiting caring and kindness to other countries. This is an unpaid political statement; the leaders of any country/people set the tone for the people. If that leader is a warrior, the country will strike out at others, if the leader is a person of peace and goodwill the country will seek peace with others. Compassion is never overrated; a man must empathize with the suffering of others to be a good leader. Mr. Bush sees others as "them" not "us" and considers "us" as being more deserving than "them". I don't see the same in Mr. Obama. I pray to God that he will be the person the world needs at this moment. It is such an enormous responsibility for anyone to assume, he will need the grace of God to succeed. I pray God is with him.
Lecture over.
As I was saying earlier, I love reading your comments and wish you all had time to drop in and say hi more often. I'm greedy for news. Everyone stay warm and safe and happy. Talk to me, loves. Hedy

2009 looks exactly like 2008...amazing

2009-01-10T17:10:00.002-05:00

Hello Everyone.
I was hoping the world would be a different place this year, alas, it is the same. I suppose we have more work to do before it becomes a paradise. After the hype and excitement from the election, my hopes were up for a miracle transition. I'm still encouraged about the possibilities IF we all do our part. We have become greener at home and are buying locally. I'd like to contribute to the economy with a new car, but Stephen King isn't feeling so patriotic.
Like Kirstie, I didn't feel so refreshed after break. Our kiddos seemed wired by the snow and the full moon this week. By third period Monday, vacation was a distant memory. By yesterday, I was laughing at everyone and everything. Some weeks in the Valley feel like a Chevy Chase movie. What do you ladies make of the termination of the Safety School Director, Clarissa Snapp? When I received her email, I was astounded; this lady is Indiana's safety program. What is the new guy thinking? Remains to be seen, I guess.
Tuesday night Steve had an allergic reaction to something and had to be transported to the ER by ambulance. He started with a slight cough and within 5 minutes was convulsing. They don't know what caused it, he didn't eat anything new or show any bite marks from a spider or anything else. SCARY. He is fine now, "Back to perfect". His words, not mine. I'm beginning to wonder if we have developed allergies to each other after all these years. He's going for tests next week.
Staci, how is it going for you? any word from your tests? I was tested for that when they were trying to determine if I had Lupus. What's the deal with anti-immune disorders? I think it is environmental. We try to eat organic and natural now, but everyone is exposed to so many chemicals daily, it is a battle.
Janelle, still pregnant? Herman Hardibeck is hanging in there, isn't he? A co-worker told me this week her 3 year old asked when they could send her little brother back, he is wild, she thinks. Lady Avery may decide the same. I remember feeling that way about my little sister and we all know how you felt about poor Whitney.
I have been wondering about your folks, Jill. Do you have Mom settled yet? Have you thought to send Andrew to live with them? Could take care of multiple issues, you know. How are your kids?
Hey, Anna. How was your vacation with Mr. Wonderful? Did the family visits work out? I can't believe you wouldn't impress any family; I bet his was pleased with his good choice. What did Grandma think of him? I trust her good sense. How is the job situation going? Settled down any?
It is always good to see your responses, Alison. It makes me smile to read about the boys. Plan a day out for the Gaggle and I'll come up. Even after being at Janelle's I cannot determine where all the rest of you live. I need a helicopter tour of Northwest Indiana. Everything there is so spread out, here in the south we are nestled close together in the hills and hollows. I can't imagine all that horizon, we have a narrow slice of land between the bumps. It makes me feel safe and cosy. I always feel exposed when we travel to flatter places; Arizona and Texas completely freak me out. What that says about me, I'm not sure. Maybe a bad experience in a past life?
Rather than resolutions this year, I've decided to choose a word...change. This will serve as my mantra to encourage me towards positive actions. I'm walking each day and attempting to eat sensibly. Normal, healthy choices that have been neglected in the past few years. Bad habits are so easy to develop and so difficult to break.
Take care and have a good week. Talk to me. Hedy

A NEW YEAR...A NEW LOOK

2008-12-29T14:03:00.004-05:00

HAPPY NEW YEAR, EVERYONE!!! OF COURSE, I REALIZE IT ISN'T HERE QUITE YET, BUT CLOSE ENOUGH. LAURA, FROM ACTUALLY, LAURA, HAS COMPLETED THE NEW LOOK FOR ME. HOPE YOU LIKE IT AND AGREE IT LOOKS MORE LIKE ME THAN THE ORIGINAL.

TODAY IS THE FIRST QUIET DAY I'VE HAD OVER VACATION. STEPHEN KING HAS GONE RABBIT HUNTING WITH OUR BROTHER-IN-LAW AND THE HOUSE IS FINALLY BACK TO NORMAL.....QUIET. CHRISTMAS WAS GOOD, LOTS OF FOOD AND FUN AND FAMILY. HOPE YOU ALL HAD THE SAME. EVERYONE IN OUR COMMUNITY APPEARED TO BE IN THE SHARING MOOD, WE DELIVERED SO MUCH MORE THAN IN PAST YEARS. I WAS STILL DOING VISITS ON FRIDAY. HAPPY TO DO IT, SAD IT NEEDS TO BE DONE, YA KNOW?

JILL, I FINALLY MADE IT TO THE RESORT AND THE DOME. COURTNEY AND I WENT OVER THIS WEEKEND AND SHOPPED THE SHOPS, SAT IN THE DOME AND HAD A CHOCO-TINI. I THOUGHT OF KIRSTIE AND ANNA THE WHOLE TIME I WAS DRINKING IT. OUR RESORTS ARE REALLY MARVELOUS LADIES. WE MUST DO A GAGGLE GET-TOGETHER HERE.

I WENT TO LEXINGTON KY ON SATURDAY WITH SOME FRIENDS FROM HIGH SCHOOL, MY HIGH SCHOOL DAYS, NOT MY PLACE OF EMPLOYMENT. ANYWAY, WE ALL TURN 60 THIS YEAR AND THE FIRST TO TURN WAS THE GUEST OF HONOR AT A LUNCHEON. WE JUST FOUND OUT ONE OF OUR GOOD FRIENDS HAS PARKINSONS, BUT IS DOING WELL. DOES 60 SOUND REALLY OLD TO YOU? IT REALLY GRABBED MY ATTENTION. AGE IS NOT IMPORTANT TO ME, AS ALL YOU YOUNG LADIES KNOW, BUT 60? THAT IS 60 YEARS, FREAKIN' O-L-D.

AS YOU CAN SEE, I HAVEN'T IMPROVED MY COMPUTER SKILLS. WHERE DID THAT NICE BLUE COLOR GO? MAYBE IN MY NEXT LIFE I'LL BE TECHNO-SAVVY. MAYBE THIS IS IT, NO. THIS, NO. HERE, I FOUND IT, BUT HOW DO I KEEP IT HERE?

I ALSO WANT TO ADD MUSIC TO MY BLOG, BUT I'M A LONG WAY FROM THERE.

I ENJOYED THE PIX, ELAINE. THANKS, THE KIDDOS ARE BEAUTIFUL AND WE LOVED THE HALLOWEEN COSTUMES. I BET YOUR HOUSE WAS A RIOT CHRISTMAS MORNING.
YOUR ANNA HAS GROWN TOO FAST, WHERE IS YOUR BABY? DON'T THE MONTHS FLY BY? BUT I WILL NOT GET SENTEMENTAL AND WEEPY ON YOU; JUST BECAUSE MY BABIES ARE ALL GROWN AND FLOWN AWAY. I JUST LOVED BEING A MOM OF YOUNGSTERS.
STACI, HOW ARE YOU? I ADMIRE YOUR DECISION TO BE STRONG, BUT DON'T BLOW OFF THIS DIAGNOSIS, TAKE CARE OF YOURSELF. I MEAN, YOU HAVE THAT "COOLEST MOM" STATUS TO MAINTAIN. BE GOOD TO YOURSELF, MADAM. THAT'S AN ORDER FROM MOTHERGOOSE.
ANGELA??? I KNOW YOU ARE THERE. TALK TO ME. I REALLY MISS YOU AND WILL HAVE TO RESORT TO PULLING LILA OUT FOR A PHONE CALL SOON. JUST TO SATISFY MY NOSY SELF. HOW ARE YOU GIRLIE? DID SAM AND ABBY ENJOY CHRISTMAS? PROBABLY NOT, HUH? ANY NEW GATORS OR HORSES AT YOUR PLACE? OR HAVE THEY BEEN REPLACED BY RHINOS AND WALLBYES?
ALISON, YOUR QUIET CHRISTMAS SOUNDS SWEET, JUST YOU, REX AND THE BOYS, HURRAY. WHAT NICE COMPANY TO CELEBRATE WITH. I DO HOPE YOUR DAD IS DOING BETTER AND GAINING STRENGTH DAILY. NEVER GOOD TO HAVE ILL PARENTS. THAT ALWAYS MAKE ME FEEL SO HELPLESS. A CHILD I CAN BE STRONG FOR, BUT MY MOM SHOULD NOT GET SICK. EVEN AT 60 SOME THINGS WE AREN'T READY FOR.
STEPHEN KING BOUGHT 10 NEW SHEEP LAST WEEK, HAIR SHEEP. THEY DON'T NEED TO BE SHORN, BUT SHEDD THEIR WOOL. I CANNOT WAIT FOR LAMBS. OUR NAVAJO SHEEP ARE DUE IN THE SPRING, THE BUCK, ZORRO, APPEARS TO HAVE ACCOMPLISHED HIS MISSION. LAMBS ARE LOVELY THINGS. HIS SISTER WANTS TO LEARN TO SPIN AND WEAVE WITH OUR WOOL. I'VE TRIED, BUT SEEM TO BE DISABLED WHEN I GET A DROP SPINNER IN MY HANDS. AND THER IS NO WAY I'D BE ABLE TO OPERATE A SPINNING WHEEL. I'D FALL OFF AND GET HURT. I'LL STICK TO QUILTING, ATLEAST I ONLY GET PRICKED DOING THAT

TALK TO ME LADIES. LOVE TO ALL AND BEST WISHES FOR THE NEW YEAR. HEDY.

MERRY CHRISTMAS

2008-12-23T14:30:00.004-05:00

I HOPE EVERYONE IS WARM AND SNUG THIS WEEK, I'VE HEARD YOU ALL ARE GETTING HIT HARD BY OLD MAN WINTER. WE HAVE THE COLD, BUT NO SNOW OR ICE. I CAN'T SEEM TO GET WARM ENOUGH WHEN I'M OUT OF BED.

EVERYTHING IS WRAPPED, BERIBBONED, BAKED, SLICED AND DICED IN PREPARATION FOR TOMORROW AND THURSDAY. MY FAMILY IS GOING TO MY NIECE'S HOME IN PAOLI FOR CHRISTMAS EVE TOGETHER. SHE AND COURTNEY ARE THE OLDEST OF THE GRAND DAUGHTERS AND HAVE TAKEN ON THE CHALLENGE THIS YEAR. THERE ARE ABOUT 40 OF US, BUT STORI HAS A LARGE HOME AND A GRACIOUS AND KIND HUSBAND.

OUR KIDDOS AND MY MOM AND LITTLE BROTHER AND HIS FAMILY WILL BE HERE FOR CHRISTMAS DINNER. THE BOYS HAVE CHRISTMAS MORNING AT HOME WITH THE WIVES AND KIDS THEN COME TO DAD AND MOM'S TO EAT. THAT WAS QUITE AN ISSUE THE FIRST YEAR THE WIVES INSISTED UPON IT, BUT THE GUYS HAVE SEEN THE LIGHT SINCE. THEY DIDN'T WANT TO CHANGE FROM BEING HERE CHRISTMAS MORNING FOR SANTA AND BREAKFAST AND THEN BACK AGAIN FOR THE EVENING MEAL. I SUPPORTED THE WIVES ON THIS ONE, EVEN THOUGH I HATED GIVING UP CHRISTMAS MORNING WITH ALL MY CHICKS. THAT WAS A KILLER SCHEDULE FOR EVERYONE.

I'M FIXING A GIANT RIB ROAST FOR CHRISTMAS; WHEN I FIRST CHANGED FROM HAM AND TURKEY IT FELT STRANGE, BUT NOW EVERYONE LOVES IT AND LOOK FORWARD TO STEAK SANDWICHES FOR LEFT OVERS. I MAKE FOCCACIA BREAD THE NEXT DAY AND USE IT FOR THE SANDWICHES. VERY GOOD. COURTNEY MADE PEPPERMINT BROWNIES TO TAKE TO WORK THIS WEEK; HEAVENLY. SHE COVERED BAKED BROWNIES WITH MINI-MARSHMALLOWS , BROWNED THEM A LITTLE BIT THEN TOPPED THEM WITH CRUSHED PEPPERMINT STICKS. ZOOWIE. SHE ALSO MADE BAILEYS FUDGE WITH BAILEY'S IRISH CREME AND WHIPPED CREAM. CHOCOLATE AND ALCOHOL AT ITS BEST.

I FOUND A GREAT WEBSITE...WAIT A MINUTE I'LL BE BACK WITH IT. OK. THIS IS THE CUTEST THING, I SENT IT TO ALL MY LITTLE ONES. YOUR KIDS WILL LOVE IT. http//portablenorthpole.sympatico.msn.ca/home I HOPE IT WORKS FOR YOU. GAVIN AND CALEB FLIPPED WHEN SANTA MENTIONED THEIR NAME AND WHAT THEY WANTED FOR CHRISTMAS, HE EVEN TOLD CABE HOW HE KNEW HE WAS NAUGHTY. THIS IS SOMETHING CALEB WORRIES ABOUT ALOT. SWEET DEVIL THAT HE IS.
I JUST PREVIEWED THE ROUGH DRAFT FOR "GAGGLESPEAK'S" NEW LOOK, NICE. THE SWEETEST YOUNG LADY IS DOING IT; VERY CREATIVE AND INTELLIGENT, RATHER LIKE OUR KIRSTIE, I FEEL. I CANNOT WAIT TO REVEAL IT IN THE NEW YEAR. I HOPE TO HAVE MUSIC FOR YOUR LISTENING PLEASURE AND ADD RECIPES AND SUCH. THERE ARE SEVERAL FAVORITE SITES I WANT TO LINK TO FOR YOU ALL TO VISIT. ALL OF THIS IS WAY OVER MY HEAD, OF COURSE. BUT WHY TELL YOU, YOU'VE WITNESSED ME AT MY MOST CHALLENGED.
JANELLE, I LOOKED AT LADY A'S NEW PIX ON THE OTHER SITE. SHE HAS TO BE THE CUTEST 2 YEAR OLD AROUND AND THOSE SHOES ARE KILLER. I JUST WONDER WHAT HERMAN WILL LOOK LIKE?
WE GO BACK TO SCHOOL ON THE 5TH; HOW ABOUT YOU ALL? HOW FAR CAN YOU VENTURE OUT WHEN YOU'RE 40 WEEKS PREGNANT, JANELLE? I CAN COME TO LAFAYETTE TO SEE YOU ALL ON SHORT NOTICE IF THE WEATHER COOPERATES. I MISS YOU ALL AND REALLY MISS THE CONTACT WE HAD DURING OUR TIME AT ISU. YOU ALL ARE THE 7 DAUGHTERS I NEVER HAD. I LOVE YOU ALL AND WISH THE WARMEST OF CHRISTMAS' AND THE MOST BLESSED NEW YEAR. ENJOY, HEDY

2008-12-14T18:34:00.003-05:00

It is 6:30 in the evening and I'm still in my jammies, must be a good day :) Sunday has indeed turned into my day of rest. It is so dark and dreary today I could not force myself to dress. Fixed a crock-pot meal, did laundry and messed around with decorations. Yesterday my girls and I went to Bloomington for Shayla's b-day and spent all afternoon in Borders, had soup at Panera and then they forced me into seeing "Twilight". What a pretty tale of teen passion and angst, I'm way too old to buy into that, but my girlies loved it. And the Northwestern scenery was marvelous.

Tomorrow begins our week of challenge, Ladies. Ice storms are predicted for us, what is the NorthLand in for? Finals, storms, 2 week vacation; not a good combo for middle school students. We almost didn't survive the full moon Thursday, at least that is over. My boys kept stopping up the urinals. I finally had to use my outside voice in warning.

It seems to me that we have been colder than usual here, I cannot get warm when I'm out. Must be getting thin blood with old age.

Elaine, I've decided to save for a kitchen redo, how is your remodel coming? I can't imagine a whole house job and really only need the kitchen brought up to date. My sink is in a corner with nothing to see except the wall, my floor has been down since the 80s and the countertops are fake butcherblock which is separating, all together dysfunctional and ugly. I've decided I'll miss Steve, but I really need a new kitchen. I know he will leave when he hears what I want to do. Our 43nd anniversary is Tuesday so we've had much longer than most couples and I really need a new kitchen. Sometimes you just have to make up your mind and live with your decision. And I really need a new kitchen.

Anna, I don't know what is going on at school, but you are much too young to be unhappy in your career. Find another placement or see if you can't remake your present position, if it survives the economy. Counselors burn out soon enough when we love what we do, don't stay where you don't want to be. That right place is out there somewhere. You'll find it, Girlie. Oh, I do believe Grandma is too sharp for the "bottle in the handbag" ploy, I've heard too many stories of her sharp mind where you kids are concerned. I need to meet this Brett, he sounds serious.

Any news, Jill, on the parents' decision? Everyone is praying for you, Lady. We all have things like this to face eventually.

Is anyone doing any traveling over the Holidays? We thought of going to San Antonio to see the new baby from New York while she visits her grandparents, but I doubt we do. When vacation finally gets here it goes by so quickly, not much gets done. I used to make lists and work my way through them till finished, now I just deal with whatever raises its head at the time. I like to think I'm pragmatic, but not so much.

Janelle, you are almost a new momma again. Please, alert the troops and let us know, Goose or Gander. A friend of mine has a nephew...Brazil. Now there's a name. Our niece has a 2 week old Ada Gram. Her babysitter from childhood was called Grammie and she used that in her honor. Raised a few eyebrows in the family, but I think it is a sweet jesture. And such a beautiful baby girl, just like a rosebud.
Any weddings over the New Year, Kirstie? Any baby news from the sisters? Are you and Pat working at the nursery on weekends or does that end with Christmas? Hang in there with the ugly-spirited coworkers, you'll come out on top. Their ugliness will expose them.

I hope to have a cute updated blogsite soon, more reflective of the multi-personalities living inside this grey head. Stay safe and warm my girlies. Maybe we can get together soon. Love you all.

the countdown begins...

2008-12-07T17:04:00.003-05:00

Two, count them, two weeks till Christmas break. Can I get an Amen, ladies? If our kiddos get any squirrelier, I don't know what we'll do with them. Friday was like herding cats. I'm about to wear out. Then we took off for a Willie Nelson/BillyBob Thornton concert in the mountains of Eastern Kentucky, hit a snow storm and crashed my little Jeep. Remember the passenger side that was replaced last year? Now I'll have a new driver's side to match. We were heading up a mountain, hit a slick spot, crossed 3 lanes, hit a guard rail, bounced back into our lane... all without hitting anyone else. God is good. Changed a busted tire, calmed ourselves and drove on. But Willie was as good as our last time 33 years ago. The arena wasn't as full of pot smoke, the crowd was older and smaller, but Willie played on. How was your weekend?

Tonight we went to see the grandsons perform in their preschool Christmas program. During the last song Gavin slowly unbuttoned and took off his cute red plaid shirt and proclaimed, "I'm hot, Dad." Had on a cute little grey wife beater underneath. Then he wiped his nose on the shirt sleeve. Caleb stood behind him singing his heart out. it was a sweet moment for G-ma, let me tell you. I love those two sweeties.

I think all my shopping is finished, the tree is in the parlor, undecorated and I'm thinking about baking cookies. Does that count as being ready for Christmas? When did I get so old and tired? I've always put up the tree, decorated it, wrapped gifts and baked 12 different kinds of cookies in a weekend. Now I just want to go to bed and pull the blankies over my head til Jan. 1. Good idea, see you later Ladies.

Have a quick, painless week. Love, Lila

I am Thankful for....

2008-11-28T16:05:00.003-05:00

I'm thankful for you all, for my family, for my home and for this country which allows us to live, work, worship and speak freely. I'm sitting here listening to my grandaughter plan her trip to the movie this evening, arguing with Mom about getting candy and popcorn, while her little brother and sister watch Spy Kids 3. I love holidays, my kiddos drop in, eat, visit and move on everyday. Yesterday's feast was even better today, but the mess was just as big. Who cares? We are all together and healthy.
How was everyone's Thanksgiving? Are we all thinking of Christmas shopping? Our chiclets wanted everything the commercials offered today on TV. I had forgotten how kids are influenced by them. We seldom watch Kids TV anymore. I cracked up yesterday when Caleb told Gavin he wasn't big enough for some toy; Gavin responded, "I don't want to be big, I want to stay small and hold my Momma's hand" Now how sweet is that? I realize you all witness such sweetness everyday with your babes, but I cannot resist sharing. Do yours want everything or are they focusing on just one item? Is Abby still into horses, Angela and crocodiles for Sam? Hope his doesn't harm hers, eek.
How are you feeling, Janelle? Not much longer til Harvey gets here, is it? You will be amazed how big Avery looks when you bring the baby home; I always felt as if I'd lost part of my older ones. I left them baby and returned to big boy. Hold tight to the memories of these next few weeks with Lady A, they are precious.
OK, Anna. What is going on there? Do we need to gaggle on someone? Don't claim the blame if it is someone else; no job is worth selling yourself out. I hope you have someone there who is wise to confide in. I miss you, Girlie and want only the best.
I had a tour of the WaterPark last week. We a planning AfterProm up there this spring. What an amazing place it is going to be. They have pushed back the opening til Jan. 31, but I don't see how it will be done then. Lots of finish work inside and some water work to be finished. It will be a unique experience though. The hotel rooms have bunks for the kids in them. CUTE. The public areas are bright, rich colors of a tropical retreat, but the sleeping rooms are neutral, soft colors. Nice views of town and country and the Dome. Prices are affordable, too. Less than $20.00 for a day pass to the park, They will have 4 food venues on site, too. I do hope you all can come down for a Gaggle Gathering and stay there w/families.
We are going for the ultimate retreat on Friday...to Pikeville, Ky. to see Willie Nelson. No, I'm not joking, he is Steve's hero and Courtney gave us tickets for a concert. Now we have to drive for 4 hours into the mountains to hear an old man sing. Steve worked on the parkway through the mountains in the 70s and thought it was the end of the earth, it will be interesting to revisit. We have driven through on the way to the coast, but haven't really looked around for 35 years. I hope it doesn't snow. If you don't hear from me again, look for the body after the spring thaw.
The forecast is for measurable snow here on Sunday; do you all still have snow on the ground, Allison? Did anyone else get any? It has been so cold here, mornings in the 20s. I about freeze during bus duty and then my office never warms up. I wore gloves and a shawl all day on Tuesday. People wrap up before coming into my area. I have been spending lots of time with the kids at school this week. Taking over classes and discussing issues. The teachers seem to have reached a breaking point; one day I showed "Mean Girls" and we had a good discussion about relational aggression. The 8th grade girls rolled their eyes and tossed their hair at me until I was ready for physical aggression. Such _itches. No wonder no one likes them. They have been gathering in the lobby outside my office each morning and critiquing the others as they come in. I pointed out to them the error of their ways, but other than a phone call from an angry mom, no responce. Are all parents blind to the actions of their kids? I pray I wasn't that dumb when mine were there. Mackenzie says some girls in her school are "evil children of Satan", I think she may be right. God help them.
I'm like Kirstie; paddling as hard as possible to keep my head above water at work and still getting more behind everyday. We have started the RTI thing and guess who gets to DO it? Our principal says it won't be here long, just keep stalling. But I feel it is the right approach for the kids who continue to fall short and pushes the teachers to do what needs to be done. Teachers are refusing to refer or follow recommendations. I cry alot over this and our Sp.Ed. director is threatening to quit. Since Mitch was re-elected, this won't change, will it? Even if NCLB goes away? Any advice, Ladies?
I'm giddy over 2 more free days, no plans at all. Stephen says, "Just keep cooking, Mom" and they've all asked for a favorite treat this weekend. Looks as if berry dumplings are next, followed by turkey potpie and bread pudding. Foods on, come see us. Love to all.
Talk to me. Hedy

CRAZINESS

2008-11-15T11:28:00.003-05:00

You all know my passionate stance against drugs; well, add steriods to the list. OMG, I've been crazy for the last 3 days. Predizone is not my friend. Apparently there was a bad mix with some of my meds and the steriod for the allergy attack and I've been channeling Attila the Hun and Lizzie Borden. There hasn't been a sane thought since Wednesday, I've sat in bed, holding onto my head and skin to keep together. Poor Stephen King, he must think he's been written into one of the other one's novels. I think it is almost over today, still alittle shaky and the walls are moving somewhat, but mostly OK. I think maybe the LadyBug is one of the plagues from the Bible. Such a seemingly harmless creature, deceptive and cunning. Some even decorate their nurseries with their little black and red images. Do not fall into the trap, Ladies. Save your children and run away.

On a saner note, it was great to hear from all of you this week. Elaine, it has been ages. Does Little Henry look like your kiddos? We need a new baby around here and our niece is having one next month. We have a shower tomorrow for the expected little girl. I cannot wait to hold this one. Another niece has a 4 month old daughter, but they live in NYC and we haven't seen her yet. It is such a wonderful gift to watch our family grow and have new life. With each new child, the miracle of life is relived and love spreads.

It is great that you have such a willing teacher this year, Allison. I think that can make or break a child sometimes. Poor guy, struggling to learn, because we don't have a grasp on how to best teach. His natural intelligence shines from his eyes and the willingness is there, we just have to stay centered on what he needs. The boys are so lucky to have you and Rex as parents, a real inside track to learning. Sometimes, I just want to advise parents to let their kids be kids and learn naturally, but that isn't always the answer. If they don't get that extra support at home, they can lose out entirely. The softwear packages, I used hardcopy workbooks with mine, are a marvelous addition. You can find them in any interest area and most kids love the computer. But, of course, you know all of this. I have read of the tonsil/sleep connection. In fact, my nephew was diagnosed ADD in early elementary, had tonsils removed in 4th grade and no more symptoms. Joe graduated from IU's Kelly School and makes a mint in Chicago now. Just stay strong, Mama. He will shine. You and Staci have kids who like to be kids and are stifled by the constraints of school rooms. We see so much of that in education. I think back to Mackey's class on education and fitting people into little boxes that move through the system. It makes me sad that we continue to do this. Maybe Montessori is the answer?

Janelle, are you big enough to have another baby? Those shots of you in Florida didn't look it. You appeared alot smaller than with Lady A. Or you know how to hide from the camera, maybe? Anyway, looking good and that child is a star. Such a sweet face. And how about Bob? Bob Hardiwick? Nice strong sounding name, B follows A; you and Brian can work your way through the alphabet. Or Bubba? Hilljacks love the name Bubba. But there are no hills up north, are there? Sorry, I may be stroking again.

How are the parents, Jill? I think of your family and pray for you daily. Any decision on Mom? Be strong. How is Andrew, speaking of family? Sandwich generation seems to define you, Lady. Are you getting to French Lick this winter? I know I won't see you even if you do, but it is nice to think you're close :-) Our friend got a Principal of the Year Award from his last school which was awarded this fall. Makes our Board look bad for not extending his contract. He is such a gem.

I suppose our two young'uns are busy as bees right now. Are you two still getting to spend time together with those perfect men? As a foursome, you must be unstoppable. I imagine dinners together where Anna and Kirstie out-cook each other, a la Iron Chef. Or do you have the guys cooking? A much more modern approach. I hope you are each enjoying this wonderful time in your lives. You have such exciting times ahead. I wouldn't go back and relive my life, but I did love that new person stage of being a young adult and having the world before me. You are such bright, dynamic women, you can have your dreams. Bless you both.

I'm trying to get inspired for Christmas, but keep getting sidetracked. I did get a grant to take our middle schoolers bowling for an academic reward. We, apparently have NO money for anything in school this year. Casino dollars are hidden somewhere. I'd like a chance to use some for direct services to the kids, but seem to be in the minority. I'm also, trying to get another Special Ed teacher and a couple of aides, but have been laughed at. I fear our teacher will resign in frustration and we will be left high and dry.

We are practicing Invisible Mentors with the struggling students,but keeping the staff excited is a battle. I feel they hate me half the time, I'm always pushing, pushing... How do you all do this? Aren't we supposed to do this?

Now back to Christmas...see how distracted I am. I have wiis for each family, so just need to fill in with small items. I'd like to decorate more this year, last year barely saw a tree. I'm thinking filling my urns out front with greenery and colored ribbons. I'll switch out my fall quilt on the swing with a wintery one and put up a new wreath. Wish I could get another square one, Kirstie. We need a new tree this year, I may go back to natural. Except so many trees around here have L-bugs in them. I cannot take that risk. Maybe we'll go retro with an aluminum one with the color wheel light! Mom and Dad had that in the 50s and I hated it. So cold, I thought. Of course, no one listened much to a 10 year olds' take on decor. She also had the blonde Swedish furniture with lime/black lamps, eek. Courtney had her house that way for a couple of years, too. I just don't care for it. I like simple, warm, homey things. Hard to imagine, old Grandma Hedy any other way, right?

I'm having a lady design Gagglespeak for me. I don't like the way it is now. I'd like style and music and a chance to link things like other blogs and websites. But there is that tech problem; as in I don't know how to do any of this stuff. I imagine A and K could whip this out in no time. Do you use any blogs at school? Our seniors, the band and a few teachers have them. The problem is, you can loose days reading them if you aren't careful. Sort of video games for the unco-ordinated.

Hope you all will post some Christmas pix of kids and your homes to spruce up the site. I'll have to change out our beachy pix for winter. Talk to me. Love