reflections

Tis the season...for reflections. The year is almost over. It's been a hard year for some....what with job losses and deaths in families. No job losses for us, but death of a sister. So, I've been somewhat sad over these holidays missing my sister. In the midst of all the hubbub of visitors and cooking etc, always at the back of my mind is that we have an empty space in our heart.

I'm noted as the family optimist, so I try not to let these negative feelings get in the way of other people's fun, but I won't say it's been easy.

Travel plans...last year we visited Florida, Pennsylvania, Maryland and the Biltmore. We had visitors from PA and Fl.

Our baby, Isabel, will be two on January 1st. Where have those two years gone? Fast for her parents I know.

All the grands are growing up....J-L is 14, but still a little boy. I shouldn't say little as he's taller that all his grandparents and his Mom. Dad is still got height on him, but I'm sure it won't be long before those two are seeing "eye to eye." Anton and Chris...also growing like weeds. They haven't hit their growth spurts yet, but it will soon happen. Maura Quinn...all legs and getting taller each day. I think we may get a 6-foot girl out of her.

Presents are always a problem with the kids. We don't buy toys...never have...books when they were younger, clothing now and then. Our gifts to the younger members of the family have always been $$$ for their college funds. As we have a teen and another one coming up this year, those college days will be here sooner than one might imagine.

With 5 grandchildren...Christmas gets expensive...they also get a smaller $$ gift for birthdays. We know that none of the children needs anything...toywise or otherwise...lucky kids, so we are happy to contribute to future college expenses. Who knows how expensive it will be by the time Isabel is ready for college. If her mom is still working at Pitt, they should get a little tuition break. Anton says he's going to get a sports scholarship. One can only hope.

We know that however it happens...all theses children are college bound. They are all bright. We thank the Lord for their health each day.

And for our own health also. Health problems come with age but at the moment, we are "holding back the devil" healthwaise.

No one knows what next year will bring. The New Year's baby is coming tomorrow night. I personally don't ever want to know what's coming around the corner. I just want to face each challenge with grace and dignity.

As I told an aquaintance when she asked how my year had been...."It had it's ups and downs...like everyone's." We just pray for more ups than downs. Till next time.

Maura as Mary/xmas eve

I always said I wouldn't go to the Children's Christmas Eve Mass unless Maura got to be Mary because it's very hectic. However, this was the year she got to carry the Baby and put him in the manger. She was the "Theotokis" the God Bearer...Mary in the program. She looked sweet and did her job well. The Mass was beautiful...Father Pat Kibby had a great Children's homily...we are all called to be angels...and the best part...Mass was over at 5 p.m. and we got to go home for an early evening.

The Florida Steinmetzes were here. It was a lovely day. We waited for Joan and family to come to exchange gifts. The boys were unhappy with the delay, but "patience is a virtue" so they survived the wait.

I got to practice with my new camera. Carla (our photo expert) has given me some lessons on putting the pictures on the computer and I will practice when I am alone. I told Carla that I might need to call her for some updating, but for this moment, I do know how to do this thing.

Some of my art students are very good photographers and they tell me that once I learn this skill, I will be able to print photos for art projects. For now I'll just practice.

It's been a fun few days here in Music City. Bill, Carla and boys are off to visit Aunt Marilyn for New Years Eve. We have enjoyed having them with us. Saturday, after Christmas, we all went to the movies. We saw Sherlock Holmes and dad and I opted not to see the next film which Joan,Maura, and Florida Steinmetzes all saw...a prequel of the chipmunks...I think.

Got to go...till next time.

Catching Up

Hey, gang. Al is getting ready to play golf in a tournament for the food bank. Admission price is 15 cans of something for them. I'm sure he took a whole lot more than 15 cans. That's next weekend. As for me...today is the set-up day for the Arts Show at church. I've got 20 paintings of various sizes and 6 "wearable" art pieces. The wearable stuff are scarves. I hope I sell something...but even if I don't...there are no chance for sales if your creativity is "under the bed."

My art class at the Senior Center is almost over for this season...two more sessions. Then we won't start again until after the holidays. There isn't any use trying to have class when you have 2 major holidays in 2 months. I would be ready, but my students wouldn't.

The next project is to take crochet and knit pieces to the local Hermitage library for display in December. My crochet group has lots of stuff to put in the cases. They have 2 closed cases and although we don't get to put the display up....we will have lots to brag about. I am even going to put in a piece that Kathy Brown gave me. Just to include her in the display. We have about 10 (off and on) ladies that come on Mondays....usually 5 or 6 each week. I'll be writing up a short piece on the history of the group and our charity efforts.

A couple of weeks ago several of us went to THE BIG STITCH which in conjunction with national volunteer week had to goal of knit/crochet (ing) 2500 hats for different agency's needs during the winter...Cancer chemo caps...and baby hats for hospitals, etc. The day ended with the grand total of 2460 hats. Of course...most of the people who attended the day's events brought hats with them....you can't get 2460 hats out of 100 stitchers in only one day...but that was a successful event. Lots of fun, too.

Tomorrow is Joan and Maura's fall festival. The king and I will be attending and putting our bids in on the silent auction. I always think that because we go so early we won't be winning any bids, but usually Al bids enough on "golf stuff" that he gets a call telling him that he is the winner!!! Lots of fun there.

Got the property taxes last month and I paid them even though they weren't due until February. My friend says she never pays them till the last day, but I'm just like my Mom...I get a bill and hardly open it up before the checkbook is out and the payment is "in the mail." I can't stand having a bill unpaid.

It has been suggested that we pay our bills on line, but I guess I'm just too old fashioned. I like writing the checks and mailing them. As this is my habit over the years I've never had to pay a late penalty.

Yesterday was a sad day in Texas. We live in a strange world, don't we?

I'll close for now. Till next time

Busy Days

As the title implys...these are busy days here on the ranch. We are getting ready for our arts show at St. Stephen. I've been put in charge of publicity. I wouldn't dislike this job so much except that it just creeps along. You can't do it all in one day. It seems that for the past two weeks I've been e-mailing and taking news releases to places (you have to get it in for publication not too early--not too late). So at this point...after checking with the chairperson...we've decided that I've done my job. Yeah!

That's only part of it. I've also been getting frames and putting demar varnish on paintings and opps...did I forget to sign that one? So that's been hanging over my head. I've about got a handle on that chore.

Then a couple of friends asked me if I'd like to go in with them on a booth to try to sell some of the crochet items we produce. Sure, why not.

Trying to get some baby afgans done for Caring Choices. Taking a dozen of them today to give to them.

What else? Well, with all the art stuff I've been doing these past couple of weeks..I decided yesterday that it was time to "red up" the studio. What a mess. I clean it up and in a few short weeks, I can hardly get to my work station. Yesterday, I spent 2 hours "neatening up" the place. I hope it will last till Christmas.

What with recycling and teaching art and fussing with another person who uses the art room I've been very busy. I had to remind this person that we all had to cooperate and he wasn't the only "game" in town. He had a big sign on one of the cabinets...Don't block the doors. I thought he had a lot of nerve.

Today is reading day at the talking library. One of our regular readers is out because of surgery. She's a nice person...she says I'm the resident Catholic and she's the resident Jew. Larry our other reader is an athiest? I'm sure I didn't spell that right. Any how it's just me and Larry till Hillary returns from sick leave. Hill is the nicest person. I like her a lot.

Keeping up with Uncle John in Maryland. He seems to be keeping busy. We will have a houseful at Thanksgiving. Hope he will come too. He's thinking about it.

So, with all this activity, I've not blogged for several weeks. I've caught y'all (as we say in the South) up now. Write you again soon. Bye for now.

Just for J-L

I must admit when I read J-L had left his textbook at the Dr's office...I thought that boy should start being more responsible for his "stuff." After all, he won't always have his mom to pick up after him. In a few short years he'll be heading off to college and with no mom or dad to pick up the slack...he'll be in big trouble.

Alas, after those judgemental thoughts, I remembered I had left a library book at my doctor's office and had to return to retrieve it later in the day. Where was my brain that day?

So, J-L, I must appologize and try to be more responsible myself. You go, kid.

Love, Grandma S.

The joys of motherhood

Having just read Carla's blog of a few days ago....what a day! I had to reply. And we thought it was all going to be cookies and milk being a mom. I think that moms with only one kid maybe, just maybe are the cookies and milk moms, but the rest of us...the ones with jobs and more than one kid and the never ending chores that call us to pick up kids, get groceries, talk to bosses, send packages, (etc. etc. etc. as the King says) just have those days.

The situation (I was going to say problem, but that's not the right word) is that the days stack up and before we know it we haven't had time to write a letter or read a book. Been there...done that.

I have to confess that now that I'm past all the mothering stuff...well, in age, but not in mind...I thought I'd finally become someone that "has it all together." Wrong.

Wrong, because now that I have a moment to contemplate my navel I forget where my navel is. Ha.

This past week I had a appointment for my annual mammogram. This is always a fun activity, especially for those of us with something to gram. I made the appointment a couple of months ago and it was for a Saturday. Hmmmm. Saturday. I didn't know they were open on a Saturday. The appointed hour came and naturally being a Steinmetz, nee Joyner, I was a half hour early. The hospital was dark...Oh, well, I'm early. I'll just read my book till someone turns the lights on.

I read and I read and I read. Finally I looked at my watch. It was a half hour past the magic hour of my appointment. Everything was still dark. I went up to the sign-in door and read a big sign that said....closed on Saturday.

So, where in the heck was I supposed to be...certainly not where I was. I went home and decided I'd have to investigate on Monday. When Monday arrived I called and was told that mammograms were now done at Sarah Cannon (that's Minnie Pearl for non Nashvillians) Imaging center. SC is right next door to the hospital. And then the nice lady on the phone told me that I had gone to SC the year before for my mammogram. I felt left a dumb dora. After she said that I vaguely recalled going home last year and telling the husband that the new center was like a spa...dim lights, nice music...pleasant people...new imaging technology that made the whole experience not so bad. But until she told me of last year's visit...there was nothing up in the brain re. that experience. My brain is a sieve.

I'm telling you...the mind is a terrible thing to waste. It's a good thing I don't have to schlep kids to various and sundry appointments these days. Kids need us working on all cylindars. Hope Carla's next day was better.

Reading the Steinmetz blogs tells me that the Steinmetz family is busy as ever. Love to all from Mom, Mother in law and Grandma.

exercise,,,ugh

wSo," says my friend eying my pink Curves tee shirt with 1000 on the front. "what does that mean? It means I've gone to Curves 1000 times, I answer.
"Wow," she says..."you must really like it.
Truthfully I answer I hate to exercise, but I do it because it's good for my heart. (Not to mention how fat I'd be if I wasn't a regular member.) I'm not a good exerciser. I'm tall but not athletic. (Sorry,kids..I've given you no athletic genes.) No, I did not play basketball or volleyball or any other team game. I can't think of anything I'd like to do less than chase a golf ball around a course. I go to Curves. I've been a member for lots of years now.
I'm the person waiting at the door for Curves to open in the morning. It's difficult for me to go later in the day. My Grandma once told me that when you don't like to do something (like ironing) it's best to do it first thing in the morning and get it out of the way. Words of wisdom. So I go early and get exercising out of the way. That way I don't feel guilty later in the day because I know I won't go at 2 or 4 in the afternoon or 5 in the evening.
As I leave after my workout I tell fellow Curvers...if you aren't sweating, you aren't working hard enough.
Besides, as we all know...a person can do anything for a half hour. I'm glad I go to Curves. The people are nice and there are all ages, shapes and sizes. We wear any old thing and every once in a while someone says...how much weight have you lost....you look great. I know that they are just being kind, but I like it any way.

Note to the Birthday Boy...Happy birthday, Bill. I can't believe you are going to be 43. You always were a sweet little boy and you grew up to be a fine man. Dad and I are proud of you. Love, Mom.

Just Because

Carla made cookies for the family "just because." I was telling Maura the other day that sometimes you do a kindness for someone else "just because" not expecting anything in return. Those are the best kinds of kindnesses.
We've been keeping up with John...trying not to be a bother, but I worry about him as he's all alone. It seems he's been accepting any invitation that comes his way. I'm glad. He certainly has enough time to brood.
Today I resigned from the board at the Buchanan Log House "just because" I've not been a very good board member. It's always been my policy not to join any organization unless I could fully participate. That's not been the case with the BLH for the past few months. In my defense I confess to being a little disconcerted during J's last illness. Even though we were far apart in distance, we were close in mind and spirit. I am still feeling a void in my heart.
Speaking of friends with problems...our old neighbor across the road has lung cancer and he's getting the standard treatment of chemo and radiation. His wife is about worn out. I've been sending supper over a couple of times a week. She says he has no appitite. I think that is the norm for this theraphy. I told her we didn't want to intrude, but she knew where we lived and not to be shy about asking for help. They have one child and she lives in Canada.
Maura, Joan and I went to the Lobster for lunch on Labor Day...Dad went golfing...Ed went to work. We had the best looking waiter...I'm talking movie star handsome. He's probably waiting to be discovered or maybe he's a student. Whatever. Maura was eyeing him up and when he left she said he was good looking. I agreed and then she said...sighing...he's to old for me and too young for you, Grandma. Then she looked at her mom and said...he's too young for you too, Mom. I told her you are never too young or too old to appreciate beauty. We gave him a big tip.
This week I gave 12 baby afgans to Caring Choices and 3 baby afgans to the Elizabeth ministry at church. Also...sent along a dozen hats to Sara Cannon (that's Minnie Pearl to those who don't know) Cancer center. And gave a dozen hats to Glenn Brown for Gilda's Place. I'm out of stock. I'll have to get those needles busy.
This weekend...tomorrow Dad and I are going to see Wicked....the true story of the wicked witch of the west. It is supposed to be wonderful. Sunday...we are going to the state fair. I think that's about all the togetherness Dad can stand. I'm going to make the most of it.
Can you believe...It's mid September already...9/11...ranks up there with Dec. 7, 1941. Next week I start my art classes...I'm ready. I've missed those students...but if you'll reread the top of this missive, you'll see that I probably wouldn't have been so hot at that job this summer.
The Quinn family is getting ready to visit New Jersey...to see Ed's mom and family and then they will stop in Pgh to see Karen and family. That's next month.
I'm typed out. If you have read to the end of this rambling...good for you. You didn't quit when the quitting was good. Love to all...

Verrrrrry Interesting

Every day you should learn something new or try something new. I'm pretty much into the learn something new category as I'm not a very adventureous person. So, here goes some new and interesting things I've learned recently.
First I learned that siblings treat their friends much nicer (read kinder and more courteously) than they do their brothers or sisters. Why? Because if you aren't nice to your friends...they won't associate with you anymore. Bs and Ss are stuck with each other till they all leave the nest. Also...along these lines....Siblings fight about 10 minutes out of every hour. The tv doctor didn't say how this was related to gender relationships...that is brother on brother or brother and sister. . etc. He said how well adults got along with siblings as children predicts how close their relationships would be as adults. Hmmmm.
Then I learned that there are companies who are dealing with internet addictions. This is not just in this country, but also worldwide. If a person is on the internet 8 hours a day....they may have a problem. I don't know how this relates to persons who do their jobs via computer. The rule may not apply then. Also in China..some internet addictees have been treated with shock therapy! I do know that people convicted of internet fraud..hacking, identity theft, etc...as part of their sentences are not permitted to use computers for a period of time.
Then I learned that Medicare will not pay for pap tests if the woman hasn't had any problems in t two years. This is for patients 65. I found this out when I visited my doctor for my annual gynie this past week. I said I'll pay for it. I'm sure I'll get a big bill for this. This seems a little counterproductive. Isn't the function of these tests to find a problem while it is small? The reason I said, "Do it, anyway." is because I have a friend just diagnosed with uterine cancer because they found it on a pap test.
My doctor is very nervous about the talk about health care reform. I tell her we know what she thinks about socialized medicine...she's from Canada. If she could make any money there, she'd still be there. I don't think that we really know what the proposals are..many voices heard and I'm not sure that all of them know what they are talking about. Well, on that, we shall see what we shall see.
Lastly...if you are one of those fortunate people who don't get bitten by mosquitos...it may be that you secrete a hormone that bugs don't like. It seems scientists are trying to identify and manufacture this hormone for the mass market. It isn't going to be otc for a couple of years. I don't know why they tell us this stuff so far ahead of the game.
And that's all I have recently learned. Till next time.....

life is very scary/exciting

We had a medical emergency last evening. Al usually goes to bed before me,but last night at 8pm I said I was very tired and would go to bed at the same time he did. We went to bed, he turned out the television...and...then the incident happened. I thought his breathing was very shallow. He threw off the covers and was perspiring profusely. I asked him if he was ok and he mumbled "yes." Still breathing funny, I though. I asked again and got no response. I got up, turned on the light and realized that he was "out of it." I called 911 and even the fire department/ambulance was there in about 10 minutes, it was a very scary time. The emts were very professional and agreed with me that he was having a hypoglycimic (blood sugar too low) attack. His blood sugar was so low that it didn't even register on their meters.
The emts loaded him up in the ambulance and I followed them to the hospital. I'm very glad that Summit is only a couple of miles away. The er was ready for him and they started ivs and took vitals. His blood at that point was only 43. (Lord only knows how much it was at the start of this event.)
After tests...heart, lungs, etc. and glucose ivs, crackers with peanut butter, and three hours later, I was given the go-ahead to take him home. It was very scary.
The er doctor asked how long he'd been a diabetic and if this had ever happened before. I said 25 years and maybe 3 times over the years. When was the last time? about 2 weeks ago. Hmmm....
He slept in this am. I told him if he going to go walking this morning he better wake me up as he wasn't going to go alone. This is the first time in years he hasn't gone for a walk. I'm insisting that he rest today.
It was a strange evening....and very scary.
I told the emts what Karen said about blood levels....better to be a whole day high than a half hour low. This makes me nervous. I'm going to be on the alert for signs.
The trouble with signs is that there weren't any. He can usually tell when his blood is low. This time, if I hadn't been in the bed next to him and came in a few hours later as I usually do, who knows that would have happened. Yikes!!!!!
Today he's recouperating, although he says he is fine and he looks as he usually does. I'll be on the alert for post-traumatic actions. Post-traumatic for me. He doesn't remember a thing till he woke up in the er.
That's how it goes....till next time.

pets and more pets

When discussing pets with a friend recently, I commented that although we don't have a pet now, in our past we have had many pets. Well, I should say that I had many pets. When I was a little girl, we had dogs and cats. The first dog that I remembered was called Mitzi. She was a mutt. I don't know how we got her, but it seemed to me we had her till I was in the second or third grade. After Mitzi went to dog heaven, we had dogs that were Cocker Spaniels. Well, actually, only one was a pure bred Cocker, but the other was a mixed bred that looked like a Cocker. Both of these two dogs were black and it seems as if I've mixed up their personalities, combining them into one dog.
These two dogs lived a long time. The mix was still with us when Al and I were dating. Mickie would meet him at his car when he came to call, barking a lot. He'd greet him and walk him to his car when he left. Al swears that he was the only one the dog ever barked at, but as I recall, Cockers are barkers and I'm sure he barked at everyone. This was before leash laws and all the dogs in the neighborhood ran free. Mickie was no exception. We could go to the door and call him and we'd spot him at least a mile away in New Derry (across the fields). This little black spot would hear us and pretty soon we'd see that spot getting bigger and bigger as he crossed over the fields and over the creek and up the hill to our back yard. I don't recall how either one of these dogs met their fate.
Our family dog was named "John Wayne Steinmetz" nicknamed Duke..How original was that. We got him when Karen was about five. Duke's mother was a Cockapoo..a mutt herself...but named Valentine. Valentine loved the big dog down the street and every time she was in heat, she'd go visit him and come back pregnant. She had about three litters before her owners figured out how she was getting pregnant and decided to get her neutered. Duke was the runt of one of her litters and he was a sweet dog. We never trained him very well, Both Duke and the family could have stood some training. Duke died when Karen was in high school and we were all sad. As I was the one who bought the dog food, I was reminded of Duke every time I was in the grocery store. I couldn't go down the pet food aisle for several years after Duke was gone.
Now I could write a book about the cats we had...many, many cats. We lived near open fields and little mice would often make their way into the house. Cats of many colors and stripes were part of my growning up years. When I was an adult, but not married yet, we had a scruffy tom cat who would prowl the neighborhood and come in beat up from his encounters with other cats. That cat was just called Cat, but after one too many times in the ring, my dad renamed him Casius Clay, later called Ali, because of his fighting abilities.
I'll have to save the stories about cats in our married years for another time, as it appears it is time for lunch...the stomach is growling....If interested, just ask.
I'd have a cat in a minute, but the man I live with says, "No, thanks." You can't win them all, can you? Till next time.

Golf News!

This a.m. I was working in the yard sweating up a storm...it was about 89 at 7 o'clock. My better half had gone to his mid-week golf game at Two Rivers. I finished my chore and went to recycle some cardboard and plastic. After I came in and took a shower, I happened to see the message light on the phone. It was Al Steinmetz telling me that he had shot a hole in one. Boy, is he happy. When he got home I celebrated with him. He said he knew it was going to be a good day when he pared the first hole. Naturally, with this HIO, he was the winner of his foursome. I think I'll take his golf ball and scorecard and get them framed appropriately. He is certainly a proud golfer today. He has only been golfing (off and on) for 50plus years. I told him he was now ready for the Senior tour.

Speaking of golf...Tiger Woods lost last weekend. Beaten by a no-name from Korea. I say....it will keep him humble. This is the first year since he turned pro that he hasn't won a major. I always root for the other guy. In my opinion, it isn't good for a game to have one person or team dominate. Woods will win again...for sure, but last weekend wasn't the time.

I'm going to go paint...maybe I'll paint a golfing picture. Ha. Ha.

Till next time.

Goodbys and Hellos

We just arrived home from Jennifer's funeral. I knew for the past month that things didn't look good, but I don't think John (blessed John) realized it until the last couple of days. He will miss her a lot and there is a big hole in the family. I'm the last of my birth family...realizing this has hit me hard. I don't know why Jennifer left so early, but we do know that whatever and whoever meets us after this life welcomed her with open arms. Time means nothing in the hereafter but it will be long for us without her.

As to the hellos....new school year. Bill and Carla's family is growing up. Only one in elementary school now. I told Karen when her baby was born that she should enjoy Isabel because next year she'd be in college. Ask any parent of adult children and they will tell you how fast their kids grew and flew.

I did spend last Friday and Saturday evening with some classmates of 1959. Can't believe that I graduated 50 years ago. The weekend was interesting. I must say, at the risk of sounding vain, that I looked much better than many of my classmates. The guys looked awful. Even though some of the women hadn't gained much weight (my sin) they had dyed hair (there were only three of us brave enough to let it go white...we looked good) they had terrible wrinkles (I think they were smokers) and sagging skin. I came away thinking time had been kind to me. I was told by many classmates that "I hadn't changed a bit." which we all know is a lie, but I liked hearing it anyway.

People don't change much, personality wise. One gal who got on my nerves 50 years ago is still a pain....when asked if she had children she said she and her husband were happily married for 45 years because they had NO children. I told her that I was also happily married for 45 years but I had three children who are a blessing. Who is richer in this situation? Rhetorical question. Then there was the gal bragging about her two exhusbands and her money. Turn back the clock and she is the same girl she was in high school.

But...on the plus side...to see Barbara Fatora...her cousin David Fatora....Barbara Lawrence...Carol Baron...and many others was very pleasant. I'didn't know if I wanted to go to this reunion, but was afraid that "after the fact" I'd be sorry I missed it. I am glad I went...I may not ever make another, but I know the people who put these things together do lots of work. I only had to show up. It was fun.

Till next time.

replies to others?

It appears my son is upset with the Pirates and their recent deal with Boston. I long ago reached the conclusion that Pittsburgh doesn't really want to spend money to get and keep good players. I think I read their players are the lowest paid in the league....soooooo, you only get what you pay for. I think.

As for us here in Nashville. Al and I cut down a holly tree yesterday. The chipper is supposed to come on Friday so there are piles of brush all over the subdivision waiting for the big machine to grind them up and haul them away.

The fence people were supposed to come last Friday...no shows. This Monday is the new date.
Why is it that workmen never come when you expect them? Friday was the scheduled date. As usual I expected them about 8 a.m. Eight a.m. came and went and no workers. I was getting madder by the minute and at 9:30 someone called and said there would be a delay...not till Monday. So, now I have two days that I'm rearranging my schedule to accommodate the workers. We shall see what we shall see.

As for the rest of life here...much the same. Nothing exciting is happening. Boring is the word. We do say here that boring is ok. Sometimes the alternative isn't too good.

I'm gearing up for my 50th class reunion. I didn't know if I wanted to go to it, but then decided I would go because after the fact I'd probably be sorry I missed it. So, it's midAugust and that's on the agenda for the Steinmetzes.

Karen and family are home and healthy. Karen said she had to go to work (gasp) the first day back from her long sojourn with the family to parts across the ocean. I told her if she was looking for sympathy, she was barking up the wrong tree. She said she was just stating a fact, not asking for sympathy. Isabel weathered the trip well.

Joan goes back to school next week. It seems as if they just got out yesterday. Maura goes the week after. Maura got her kitten for her birthday. Joan and Maura took Dad and me out for his birthday. We went to Red Lobster for lunch. Our new RL is very upscale. The waiter offered to put his arm in the lobster tank and pick one out for Maura...but we nixed that idea.

Al has been golfing a lot lately. Good for him. We were rooting for the old guy at the British Open last week, but he lost in the playoff. What a graceful loser. He commented that nobody died after the loss, putting all things in perspective.

That's it for now. Till next time.....

judgmental?

I've come to the conclusion that I am judgmental...re. many things. I've judged the men who don't live up to their marriage vows and women who chase married men very harshly. I think, perhaps I'd not be so outspoken regarding those life choices if we weren't bombarded by the media with details that aren't any of our business. But we are, and I am.
I chose to avoid details of memorial services of Michael Jackson and Steve McNair but I did read the eulogy given by his pastor at McNair's service. He said several times...let those without sin cast the first stones. That's what Jesus said in regard to the woman taken in adultery who was going to be stoned by her "judges."
Those words hit home with me. I am going to promise to try and not judge others. I'm not God and it isn't my place to comment on other's choices and behaviors. I do believe in consequences and unfortunate choices oftimes lead to unfortunate consequences.
The trouble with bad choices is that innocent people, children and spouses, are hurt and that is sad.
As for me....I'll try to remember the words..."let him without sin cast the first stone."

A recent nonjudgmental moment. I was gassing up my car and who should I see at the next pump....Bishop Choby...bishop of Nashville. He was pumping gas, too. Naturally, I asked him what he was doing in my neck of the woods. He'd returned from a minivacation with family and had been picked up at the airport by a friend. I told him I was from St. Stephen and he asked if we (the congregation) were happy with Father Pat Kibby returning to St. S. Naturally, I said Yes and hoped that Father Steve Wolf, our departing priest would be happy at St. Henry. He said, Father Steve seemed to be happy and Father Pat seemed to be happy and that made him happy. So, we said "goodby" and he shook my hand. He headed off to Nashville..I headed home to tell Al of my meeting with the Bishop.

One last comment...good for our Anton. Sorry your team lost, honey, but you certainly showed your stuff, didn't you? Next year all the teams will be wanting you...maybe there will be a bidding war for your services..Just kidding. Good job, Anton. Grandpa and I are proud of you.

That's all, folks.

Who died?Who's unfaithful?

Well, Michael Jackson and Farrah, too. It is a shame that so much time and space is devoted to the deaths of some folks. MJ had more problems than one life should have, but for me, it is enough to know that he probably never grew up. I don't need to rehash every detail of every record, video, baby birth, marriage, etc of this man/boy's life. Rest in peace.
Farrah, also, led a life I wouldn't have wanted. I'm glad I'm not somebody that all the world wants to know every detail of life and death about. I didn't watch her story about battling cancer as I just watched a dear friend go through that experience. I would be willing to bet that most folks have a loved one of an acquaintance who has died a nasty death from cancer. Enough is enough.
In Nashville, Saturday, Steve McNair was killed apparently by his girl friend. She was 20...he, 36. He had a wife and 4 sons. What was he doing messing around with someone half his age? I surely don't know.
I do feel sorry for the children of people who die violent deaths. They are forever plagued with unanswerable questions. Why?
Then in last week's news...Gov Sanford of SC...has a soul mate in Argentina? He also had a wife and 4 kids. And Mr. Edwards-a presidental potential...another husband and father who gave in to baser instincts.
I recall the story of a Hollywood type who with his wife was celebrating their 50th anniversary. When asked by a reporter what the secret of their long marriage was, he replied..."We promised." Amen, brother.
I'm not saying the "grass sometimes doesn't appear greener on the other side of the fence" but often that grass is pretty yellow when you actually cross the fence. My mom used to say...try to be happy with what you have because the unknown may not be better.
Have I gone too far with this commentary? One last thing. Mother Teresa died the same week as Princess Diana. Who did more for the world? Who had more scandal attached to her name? Who elicited more press, and still does,...the Saint or the other?

So, I'm done for the day.....Till next time.

Jon and Kate again!

Well, I said I wouldn't do it...and I haven't...that is watched J&K+8. I didn't and don't want to know all the gory details of their split-separation-divorce..whatever it is. But when talking with Maura, I realized that for a little girl, she knows much too much about these two people. It was rather cute when she decided that she liked all those little kids and what they were learning and doing. It was cute when they got a puppy and Maura said "ah....."
What's not so cute is when she tells me that Jon cheated on Kate. He was with another woman on her birthday. Yuck!
I told her Mom that she knows much more than she needs to know about those two wannabe celebrities.

Which bring me to the subject of trying to keep information of this type from kids. Remember Clinton and "I did not have sex with that woman!" Yeah, sure. And parents all over the country were having to explain oral sex to six year olds. Man oh man, I'm getting to be an old fuddy-duddy.

I'm not saying things were better in the "old days" when such things weren't discussed. I'd never say that. But, there is such a things as TOO MUCH INFORMATION! Of course, it's difficult to isolate yourself from TMI when they put it out for all the world.

As for the birthday girl herself...Miss Maura is now a big 8 year old. She got her heart's desire for her BD. She got a kitten from the animal shelter. Today is the big day. Her kitten, named Mars (her dad thought it was cute--Mars and Maura) at the shelter is now a whopping two pounds and got spayed today. They are to pick her up this evening. I'm sure this is the longest day of Maura's life, waiting to take her present home.

That's all folks. Till next time....

Kicking and screaming!

I'm laughing, sort of...I've never been a fan of computers, technology, etc. etc.etc. but, I've been dragged into the 21st century by those in my family who are fans. In fact, if truth were known, I am not especially fond of the answering machine....a gift from our kids. And I've been told by friend and foe alike that once I got the hang of using the computer regularly I'd love it. Well, it is difficult for me to be a regular user.
In the first place, the man in my life...and you all know who that is...is the computer bug at our house. He checks and rechecks and deletes and deletes if necessary. I'm crocheting or painting and he sometimes calls me away from my chosen chore to tell me to read something or other that one of our kids has sent...look at those pictures of the kids from Florida...here's an e-mail from someone from church or any number of other important missives that he thinks I need to know immediately.
I'm pleased that he's taken this job on himself, as if left up to me, I'd not look at those e-mails, pictures, etc. for days and days. He keeps me connected to the wide world of cyperspace.
It's almost like having a private secretary. He throws away spam ads and stuff he knows I don't need or want to know. He prints out important stuff I do need to know. He tells me when I need to e-mail back to folks. What a gem! How lucky is this writer.
And all I have to do in return is wash laundry, make a few meals and listen to his latest golf game. A fair exchange, don't you think?
Now, in regard to family blogs...Bill, glad to know how much you accomplished while your wife and first born were seeing the world. J-L, glad to know you were a hit with the Brazillian ladies and that you had a good time. Anton, congratulations on making the all-star team...knock them dead, honey. Chris...hope your limp-leg is feeling better. Carla, it will be hard to get back to the old humdrum life, but as I always say...there is no bed better than your own bed. Glad you got home safely. Karen...looking forward to your travelogue of Europe. and I guess that's it for this time.
Bye for now...

Travelogues and mysteries

I have enjoyed reading Carla's blog from Brazil...it's almost a travelogue. I guess the wedding is tomorrow. I'm wondering what the bride does that she lives in China? Inquiring minds want to know.

As to mysteries....in the middle of the night a couple of days ago....I wondered where my "airplane" picture was...I called it "Fly the Friendly Skies" It recently won a prize at the Tennessee Art League's interclub spring show. I thought it must be hanging on the wall somewhere in my house. When I got up...I looked and surprise, surprise, no airplane picture to be found on my walls. Oh, well, maybe I stacked it behind a piece of furniture or stuck it under the bed...NOOOOOOO, not there. Maybe in my studio? NOOOOOO, not there.

Did I leave it unclaimed at TAL? I was pretty sure I hadn't. Of course, my better half suggested it might be down at the Senior Center....but I couldn't remember hanging it there. I hated to call one of my art friends and admit that I was loosing my mind. But I did anyway. She said she bet a nickle it was at the Senior Center. I said I had three pictures down there and I could only remember two of them. She said "there you go...the one you can't remember is your airplane picutre." I wasn't convinced. She bet me a nickle she was right.

Well, she was right...I owe her a nickle. I still can't remember taking it down there ... or hanging it. But there it was big as life. I know I have at least 100 pictures hanging around here and another hundred or so unframed ones laying around but the airplane picture was a winner and I didn't want to lose it.

It was not my finest hour....memory wise. I have fretted about this for three days now. My better half says "let it go." But I can't. I'll probably still be thinking about it next week. I hope this isn't an indication of "things to come." Awful, awful, awful.

Till next time....bye, bye.

diets and food and thin exotic women

After reading Carla's blog about fun and food and fast driving in Brazil, I laughed. I, too, wondered how the women stayed so thin...this time on the other side of the world...Italy...when the food and wine and Italian Ice were everywhere. I remember commenting "my first time in Rome" that there were more fat people on my plane than I saw in all of Rome. I guess it's a different lifestyle. I know Romans, both men and women, walk a lot more than we do. They walk to work, walk home for a small lunch, walk back to work, home after work...then eight or nine in the evening, they walk a couple of miles to have dinner. Then of course, walk home after the meal, maybe at 10p.m or so.

I don't know about walking in Brazil, but they do have beautiful people there. I'm sure Jean-Luc with his blond hair made a hit with the ladies. People always admire what is uncommon to them. Italians like the nordic ladies and people from Holland like the dark-eyed Latins.

It sounds like that part of the Steinmetz clan is having a great time. Take advantage of the opportunity, J-L. You'll probably be the only kid in your class who has traveled outside the U.S. this summer. Lucky boy.

We talked to Bill and the other boys yesterday. Skipe is working fine. Bill is doing his usual good job of being a dad.

Joan and family are off to Kentucky for a couple of days. Seems everyone is traveling both far and near.

Maura's last soccer game was Saturday. She actually kicked the ball a couple of times, but as I said before, I'm afraid she inherited her athletic ability from her Mom and me. She had a good time, however, and as Joan says, "If you had a good time, you won."

Time to go...till next time....all you travelers enjoy yourselves.

Reality shows

There must be something wrong with me that I don't find any "reality show" interesting. I know why the producers make these shows...it's much less expensive than having a cast and crew dedicated to a sitcom or detective show. Although come to think of it...how much does it cost to send 12 strangers to a desolate island and keep everyone alive for the duration of a season? Or how about sending folks on an around the world race? Or how about the cooking, modeling, makeover shows? I don't know.

What I do know is that I find these shows less than thrilling. I'm especially unhappy right now with Jon and Kate plus 8. I know these folks are having their troubles and that's not fun for them. The public never seems to get enough of dishing the dirt about those who are celebrities or near celebrities. Even though I think those little children are darling...I have resolved myself not to watch their show or read about their troubles. I do know that those parents invited the world into their lives and now that the bloom is off the rose...they are unhappy with the paparazzi and others skulking around their private lives. I felt the same way about Princess Diana...you can't have it both ways. If you present yourself as a public figure then you can't complain about your privacy being invaded by the media. I hope the children and parents survive this media frenzy and take themselves out of the spotlight. I'm sure it is difficult to reconcile a troubled marriage under the best of circumstances and on a scale of 1-10, I'd give Jon and Kate about a 4 in favor of fixing their marriage.

As I said to someone near and dear to me....I don't watch Idol or Race or any of the other "reality" shows...not on purpose that is...sometimes one or another slips through my radar. I don't watch them because I have a life of my own...boring as it is...but it is my own reality.

So, I'll enjoy my fantasy television...Law and Order (in all it's permutations)...NCIS, CCI, all stories which perhaps are based on fact, but are fictionalized for my viewing enjoyment. Also, I like Book Beat and always the history channel. I'm leaving all reality to those folks out there who mark their calendars for their faves. I know there are more of those folks than there are folks like me...but that's ok....In fact...I still like to read books.

That's it.

To all the family travelers out there. Enjoy your travels...come home safe and have a reality show of your own to tell us about upon your return...Till next time.

travelers all

So, Carla and J-L are going to Brazil. AND the Paters (with Isabel) are going to Italy in June?July? Wow. lots of traveling. Al and I are done traveling for the time being. Florida in April and to Pgh and environs in June. Guess J-L had to get a passport. Isabel did too. Once children (I guess you can't count Jean-Luc a little child anymore) were included on the mother's passport.

Got to see Jennifer B. She has a long row to hoe for recouperation. It doesn't seem fair for one person to have so many health problems. Thank goodness for John. He's a brick. John is fixing the bathroom up...taking out the tub and putting in a shower for J's return. She will have to have lots of pt. I'm afraid it will be very slow.

got to go. Hope all the travelers have a fun experience. Ta ta.

Star Trek

Hello, all you Treckies out there. Al and I saw the new movie this afternoon and all Treckies will be pleased. It was terrific...action from the first scene to the last scene. I didn't quite get the time travel stuff, but hey, who wants to let that little thing get in the way. The story was good and the special effects fabulous. That's all I have for this time, guys. Bye.

communication?

Last Friday I met my friend Sally at the Mt. Juliet Library. She was taking down her pictures and I was putting up my pictures. After we completed this little job, I asked if she wanted to go for coffee. She said sure. She had to go to the Post Office and I had to visit my doctor to discuss an insurance issue. We agreed to meet at the McDonalds by Publix. There is a new McDonald at the Lebanon Road-Mt. Juliet intersection...so after my chore was finished I headed to McD's. I arrived before Sally and decided to get coffee and wait for her. Since you know how good I am with cars, every time I saw a car that remotely looked like Sal's, I thought "here she comes. I'm thinking how long does it date to buy a stamp. Where is that girl?"
After half an hour, I decide we've missed each other and head home. When I get there Al tells me that Sally had just called and she was waiting for me at the McD's in Hermitage. We finally connected via the phone and she said she forgot about the closer McDs as she never shopped at that Publix.
Later when we talked about it--face to face--we both laughed. She said if she'd sent me an e-mail or called on her cell, we might have been able to drink our coffee in the same MickeyDs.
I said, "let's not bet on that as we did talk face to face and still got our wires crossed....and no electricity was involved.
Communication in the age of computers, etc. is very difficult even when one is talking with another face to face. It was a silly moment.

travels and troubles

It's been a while...We traveled to Florida to visit kids and grandkids. Lots of fun...lots of baseball games. We enjoyed ourselves. When we got home we got a call from Uncle John that Aunt Jennifer had fallen in the kitchen and broken her hip. Bad News. As Aunt Karen says...Jennifer can't get a break.
So, while away Jennifer had hip surgery and now will have to go somewhere for rehabilitation. I'm sure she is not a happy camper. We feel awful for her. We plan on visiting all the Yankees in the family toward the end of the month. I'll be glad to see Jennifer for myself. It is hard being away from Aunt Rose, and the Bennetts and also the Paters and little Isabel. I don't want to live in PA anymore, but it would be nice if we could see everyone more than twice a year. This goes for the Florida Steinmetzes also.
Today is dentist day. Al went this a.m. and I've got a 2/30 appointment.
Sunday the Quinns came for dinner. Maura was putting on her makeup in the bathroom. I think our house is the only place she gets to do that and I was hurrying her along because I needed to use the convenience when I complained about my itchy head. She said, "Grandma, maybe you have head lice."
No, I most certainly do NOT have headlice. I just have an itchy scalp. Dr. Maura couldn't give me any other diagnosis.

Got to go. Till next time.

My baby boy had a busy--tiring day

Just read Bill's blog....oh, my gosh! We get up equally as early...and we also cram much activity into our days, but (big but) we usually take naps in the afternoon. AND, we don't have to work in a day of employment into our schedules. I also had a Dr. appointment this week. Nothing serious. Blood pressure a little high, even with meds. We (she and I) are watching it.

My big chore this week was painting the bathroom doors. After a few years the white begins to look dingy and yellow. This is a job I've been telling myself had to be done for at least 2 years. It's done now and looks bright and clean. Also took the opportunity to really CLEAN the bathroom. I almost hate to go in there now as I don't want to mess it up.

The big expense for the week was a new furnace and air conditioner. Al is always proactive and our heat and air when checked the last couple of years were only working at 80 percent capacity. Bad news. So, the King decided it was time to get new. Since this HUGE purchase is coming out of my (what's mine is mine and what's his is mine, too) savings acct...I said I wanted equipment that wasn't noisy. We got quiet...the guys were here two days and did a good job. Our tax guy said if we were going to get new h/ac to make sure we got one that qualified for tax incentive next year. So, here I sit with quiet heat and air///programable controls and much less money in my acct. Oh, me....we are helping to keep the economy rolling.

Speaking of economy rolling. It looks like the Steinmetz's are doing that too...what with sports equipment, cameras...etc. Somebody has to do it, huh?

Worked in the yard yesterday. It's spring...I hope for good this time. I was going to put my couple of tomatoes in before Florida visit, but the King advised against it. He said wait till our return. As usual, (even though he doesn't think so) I'll take his advice and wait.

Got to go. Till next time....

Easter Stuff

Hope all had a beautiful Easter. We had Mass at dawn at St. Stephen. It was cold, but lovely. Our helper priest, Father Theo, is from Africa. Al and I were debating as we left home at 5:30 just how cold it would have to be for him to decide to have Mass in doors. But he was a trooper and we had it on the soccer field behind the church. Lots of people attended. I thought many of the children weren't dressed warmly enough, but that "grandma" thinking. Maura Q was dressed warmly enough, but still needed my afgan to keep warm.

Next week Maura's first Communion. She's definitely geared up for it. I told her that yesterday was her last time to be a baby. After next week, she's a young lady and must act like one. She's getting there.

Soccer for Maura was last Saturday. First game. She's enrolled in the Nazorrean league. Her team is for first and second graders. They have 9 players...6 girls and 3 boys. Of course, her team, the Blues lost 5-1, but noone seemed upset by the defeat. Lots of running around and since most of her team had only practiced twice, it wasn't expected that they would win. They looked to be having lots of fun. Joan says it's an 8-game season. One practice a week and one game.

We went to Joan's for Easter lunch. I made a couple of dishes. Maura played her Piano Guild pieces for us. I was surprised at how well she played. She had to memorize 6 little pieces. She and her teacher have already had a practice run at the testing and she did well. I'm surprised at how much she memorized. She may have a talent for the piano. J says no fussing at practicing.

What would I write about without M? How bout the boys? Only a couple more week till we visit the Florida Steinmetzes. Can't wait.

Till next time....

funny, ha ha

It might not be funny to others, but I laughed for half an hour...when I saw a commercial for a product (can't remember the name) which was intended for Parkinson's sufferers...In the warnings, which they must report also, was the note that it might induce "compulsive gambling." I thought this was exceedingly funny and told Al I was going to check his meds to see just what was making him buy those lottery tickets. That's a joke, too. He's not into lottery tickets.

Anyhow, as my lord and master says, it doesn't take much to make me laugh. I surely hope not. People who don't laugh, especially at themselves, are missing out on a lot. Laughers live longer. Well, we may not live longer, but we have more fun while we are here.

That's all, folks. Till next time.

Thanks for the slide show

Today, we visited the Steinmetz blog and saw the slide show of early baseball for Florida boys...what fun they are all having. Questions???Just how many positions does J-L play? When did Chris become a catcher? And Anton! What an asset he is to his team. I (we) will find out the answers to these and many more questions when we visit at the end of the month. Can't wait.

For us, here in middle Tennessee. We have been having crazy weather. Yesterday it was 70 degrees and I planted lettuce and beans. Today and for three days coming we are freezing and will have to cover azalias and whatever else we want to save from Jack Frost. I'm hoping these are the last days of winter.

Also in the weather department...we had storm warnings and tornado warnings last night after the sun went down. Like I say....crazy.

Nothing else much is happening. I got a call from the gals at church who encourage prospective moms. I've been crocheting baby afgans for them for a couple of years. So...the order is in for 4 afgans for upcoming blessed events. I was beginning to feel that we weren't having any babies as they hadn't called me for quite a while. Seems, the person delegated to call me dropped the ball. So, once again...my evenings are busy with baby afgans and chemo hats. It's real easy to crochet while television is on as you only need half an eye to know what is going on in the media.

As to the terrible happenings around the country re: killings for no rhyme or reason...what is in the water?

No answer to that question from this quarter.

Oh, I'm reading a book on increasing brainpower. It's all in the vocabulary. The more words you know, they smarter your IQ according to my book. Trivia info....The average adult has a vocabulary of thirty to sixty thousand words. Highly literate people may have one hundred thousand words. The English language has well over one million words. No wonder English is hard to learn. A suggestion is that every day we learn a new word...find a word we don't know...look it up in the dictionary and use it at least 5 times and it is yours forever. And that's how we increase our smarts.

Who knew I was going to write a book report. Till next time

Embarassing Moments

Hi, again. I'm stuck on embarassing moments this week. I think because Easter is upon us I'm recalling the MOST embarassing moment of my life....thus far, that is. (I'm sure I'll have many more.) This is the moment I call my "humbling Easter moment."

A few years ago we were having an Easter sunrise service at our church. The time came and all was in readiness on the soccer field. I was scheduled to be a "reader" that a.m. and I asked our Deacon Hans if there was anything else he wanted me to do. He said, "Pick out a couple of hymns and lead them."

No problem, I thought as I have a decent singing voice and I've sung in choir. So, Hans and I headed off to the field where Father Steve and the congregation was waiting. Mass proceeded without incident. I read my readings... Hans read the gospel...Father Steve gave an appropriate homily and then during the preparation of the alter for the sacrement...Hans gave me the high sign and I started into the hymn.....Jesus Christ is Ris'n Today. Now this hymn is well known and everyone sang along along...weakly, but along. No one had songsheets as that detail was forgotten in the anticipation of the day. Soon it appeared that no one remembered the words. I was the only one with a songbook. Soon I was singing alone. Soon I had lost the melody. I was redfaced and almost humming. Then, as Al said later, I said the dumbest thing ever. I said "Let's try the second verse." Opps. We did and they did and I did, and Hans standing beside me put his arm around me tried to give me moral support.

Alas, it was no use. I was totally embarassed. My friends and fellow congregants tried to comfort me later, but I knew the truth. Deacon Hans and Father Steve knew the truth. God knew the truth. I had totally messed up.

Walking away that a.m. I knew that God had humbled me. So much for cockiness. You can't be sure of yourself, if you are unprepared.

Of course, the next day, I was over my shame, (a little). In retrospect I thought it was funny so I told everyone at work what I had done...labeling the incident as my humbling Easter experience. Al says I'm the only person he knows who does something dumb and then tells the word. Here I am putting it into cyberspace. Am I nuts or what? That is a rhetorical question...don't answer it.

Got to go...stupid things to do....Next time I'll maybe tell you about the time the policeman stopped me for ......well, as I said...another story for another time...maybe.

I almost forgot

Hi, I almost forgot I had a blog. I've been busy this week...trying to get the yard in shape for spring/summer. Five bags of left-over leaves and twigs and cuttings collected and ready for the trashman tomorrow. We've been having iffy weather...somedays it's almost summer with 70degree days and others it's back to winter with winds and rain. I am soooooooo ready for Tennessee summer.

I read via Carla's blog that her brother Jon visited. How nice was that? As we get older and relatives get fewer, we have to keep in touch with the ones we have. Al and RoseMary talk at least 2 times a week. Jennifer and I talk about once a week. Today was one of our days. She is sounding much like her old self. She said she was going outside to "leaf". This is a chore for those of us with diciduous trees. Leaves come and leaves fall and must be picked up at some point. We commisserated with each other about that chore.

We've been in touch with our yardman. He says he's already cut some lawns but I refuse to pay to cut the grass before April. So, this week, we call him and set up a schedule for the summer.
One nice thing about the yard. Last fall I bought a lot of pansies from church and they bloomed nicely until winter hit. I thought they had all died, but they are coming back and they look lovely. What a nice surprise. I talked with a friend who knows more than I do about plants and he said they should bloom until the heat kills them. He said to enjoy them and toss them when they go. I asked if I could transplant them. He said I could, but they would still die when it got too hot.

Speaking of temps...My best temps are 65-75 and although I can tolerate higher and lower ones, those are the most comfortable for me.

The Quinns are gearing up for Maura's first communion. It's scheduled for the Sat. after Easter. Jennifer and John are heading off to MD Anderson at the beginning of April. Then, the Nashville Steinmetzes are coming to Florida to see Y'all. I'm getting anxious. Boys, get those bats going and make some good plays while we are there to see you.

Love to all. Ta, ta.

Comment on comment

Hey, people. Thanks for the comment, Carla. J-L, someone other than your mom reads your blog. I, unfortunately, can't figure out how to comment to others blogs. But, I will figure it out as (as I always say) I'm no dummy.

The beauty pageant thing appears to be a regular show. Not for me. Once was enough.

This has been a busy art week for me. Class on Tuesday. Great students. I got 2 more students. We can't take any more than 10, so this makes 9 for that class. Keeps me hopping. Wednesday, I paint with "experienced painters." Lots of fun. I finished a pastel of the boys and Maura, taken from a photo Carla took a couple of years ago. The kids under the waterfall from Grandpa on the deck. I must say....it may be a winner.

Speaking of winners. I won a third prize in the TN Art league's spring competition. We enter pictures and they are juried. I wasn't even thinking of entering, but a fellow artist told me to enter my "airplane" picture. Hooray for me. I was thrilled it got in...never thinking that it might take a prize. Also on Wednesday. Time to visit the eye doctor. No change in prescription.

Thursday...today, I finished up at Joan's class. I did 20 pastel portrait sketches of her kids. They are going to give them to their moms for mother's day. Not to toot my own horn, but I was rather pleased with them.

Tonight...we are going to Kathy Brown's memorial at Holy Rosary. It will be sad, but as I told Glenn (K's husband) I needed to put a period to this year of anguish over Kathy. Glenn asked me to do a reading. I was glad he didn't aske me to give a eulogy. That would have been beyond me I know.

Friday, tomorrow, reading for the "talking library." Then, who knows, what else. Fish fry in the evening at church. Saturday...shopping with Joan and Maura. We are looking at communion veils. I volunteered to make one for her upcoming first holy communion.

Sunday...travel with the Quinns to Kentucky to see some cave. This one is a maybe...

Oh, last Saturday...income tax day. Our tax man asked me if it was really worth it to get paid for teaching as I had to file a seperate return for that bit of money...to pay taxes and also to get social security taken out. Of course, I said..."yes, it is...cause I'm not doing it for nothing. It's hard work."

And you thought old retired people didn't have anything to do. I even squeezed in a couple of naps during the week. And I forgot to tell you about exercising at Curves four times.

After rereading this post, I'm exhausted. Oh, one more thing. I was chatting with a clerk at Aldi's earlier in the week. He was a pleasant young man. I asked him how he was doing and he replied...."I have nothing to complain about. My family is healthy and I have a job." He was a breath of fresh air.

Till next time.

another pet peave

I'm beginning to think I'm an old grouch because many things get on my nerves or make me MAD. The other night I was watching television and a show came on that really got me going. It was a children's beauty pageant. I was disgusted, not with the children, but with the parents. Those folks need to get a life of their own and not try to live vicariously through their babies. And I do mean babies. Some of the little ones were as young as 2 years old. One little one was fighting and hollering as her mother tried to push her into a fru-fru dress. Thank goodness she made such a fuss that her mother didn't make her go on stage, but the other babies were not so lucky.

I think those pageants are just money making schemes for somebody and also potentially harmful for children. One little girl only 7 years old was getting her legs shaved. Ick. Does that sound right. Then there is all the makeup and false eyelashes and hair extensions for kids who aren't even into their teens. One mom said her kid's dress cost $1,000. I thought $1,000 would buy a lot of groceries.

And then just before the child took the stage her mom was telling her to "show your personality." The sexy dances the little girls did were really disgusting. Talk about sexualizing children. This can't be a healthy thing.

The next morning when I was telling Al about the show and how upset I was about it he asked me why I didn't just shut it off. I'm telling the truth, it was like watching a train wreck. I couldn't look away.

Parents of children who won "little miss whatever" titles and also the children who lost those crowns all said that they would enter their kids again. I just shook my head and said those people should get arrested for child abuse.

That's it, folks. My rant for the week. You can call me an old fuddy duddy, but I'm glad I'm done raising children. It's a whole new world out there.

Grandchildren news...Florida boys are in practices getting ready for baseball. Little Maura who I'm sure doesn't have an athletic bone in her body tried out for soccer the other day. I told her mom that I was sure every kid who tried out got to play. We shall see how that goes. Sports have the value of teaching sportsmanship and building good peer relationships. But beauty pageants...I don't think so.

Nuff for this week.

fear

I've been thinking about fear a lot lately. Fear is that feeling in your stomach when "something" isn't right. Soldiers get that feeling when going into battle. Mothers get that feeling when children are ill. Patients get that feeling when heading for the operating room. Fear is a universal emotion.

The fear lately in our country is that we are heading for economic disaster. I've looked at the people I know. Yes, several folks have lost their jobs...but more are still working. Yes, some families need food assistance, but more are helping out their neighbors. Some families because of the general laxatity in banking practices or their own ineptness are out of their homes. All cases we hear of "those in need" break our hearts.

In all the above cases, most folks in need are getting help from family and friends. People are willing to "go the extra mile" to help others. Because of the general downturn, charities are becoming more creative...our local food bank partnered with the library to garner "cans of food for library fines". This was a win-win for everyone. Libraries got their books back...the food bank received much needed thousands of cans of food for their clients.

I read every day of churches that are behind in their budgeted collections. (My own church included.) But on the other hand...I read that churches are opening their doors to the poor and homeless with shelters and food kitchens.

I recall the words of FDR..."the only thing we have to fear is fear itself." It seems to me that listening to the nightly news re: the stock market, energy prices, job losses, etc. doesn't help the general condition. Even those of us who are relatively unscathed by the current situation can become victims of the mindless "FEAR" broadcast.

I'm not like the bird with his head in the sand, trying to pretend things I can't see mean they aren't there, but I think all the negative press creates a climate that isn't productive. As a nation, we've seen hard times before and I'm sure we'll see them again. Let's put our national mindset to figuring a way to make things better.

In the words of another great man...Pope John Paul II..."Be not afraid." We will survive and we will prosper. Till next time.

eom letdown

Can't believe February is almost over. Time flies when you are having fun. This past week we were having fun at my art class...laughing and hooting at various and sundry things. An old gentleman passed our door and asked "is this where the party is going on?" Of course, we all said yes. He asked us if we wanted a couple of jokes. Of course, we all said yes.

One of his jokes...an old one I'd heard before, but it bears repeating: A lady who had an unhappy marriage died and went to the GATE. St. Peter said she couldn't come in unless she could spell the word. "What's the word?" she asked. Love, said St. Pete. "L-O-V-E?" she said. Yep, you're in said "Pete. (Note how familiar I get with the saint as this story goes along.)

So, Pete says, "I'm going to lunch. You guard the gate."

A bit later the woman's husband arrives at the gate and after the hellos and what are you doing heres between the two, the husband said, "Let me in." The woman said, "You can't come in till you spell the word."

"What's the word," husband asked.

"Checkloslovackia." That's it. Of course, my gang on aspiring artists and I laughed our heads off.

What made the joke even funnier was the old gentleman telling the joke had an accent of undetermined origin...maybe yiddish or greek...or something. It was hilarious.

I feel better. I started to bemoan the fact that February is almost over. Why? I'm asking myself now. That means spring is almost here. My pansies of last fall are trying to bloom again. Some buds and flowers popping up. Daffs and flags are coming and I even see the leaves on the trees trying to bud. Ah...spring.

Karen had a birthday yesterday. She's such a busy gal that we never did get to speak with her. Work on a Saturday, she said. Perhaps today, we'll chat.

Glad to read the boys are getting along with practices, even though you guys had some chilly (for Florida) weather. Al made our reservations for our April visit. I even thought of buying a summer outfit for the trip. So...Good-by, February...March is coming in quickly.

Till next time....love to all my loyal readers.

restaurant review

Here we go folks. The long awaited opening of the new Red Lobster at Providence in Mt. Juliet, TN has happened. Al and I visited on Wednesday...it was our Valentine's date...even though it was a couple of days early. It was a beautiful day. We went for lunch. There was a large crowd there though it had just opened...(11 o'clock). We were seated right away and were given wonderful service. Al said it was almost too wonderful. I looked for the fish which are a hallmark of Red Lobsters I have visited before. No luck. Everything was very upscale and elegant. We had our usual lunch..broiled fish for me and for Dad...chicken and shrimp. The usual criteria for a RL are the cheese bisquits. They were perfect. Our server and everyone from the manager to someone else who's role we couldn't identify ask us many times if there was anything else they could do for us. Our question is--is RL breaking into the fine-dining market? It was a lovely luncheon and we will spread the word.

Today I gave blood. The Red Cross and I are intimates. I'm probably up to about 7 gals donated now. I always feel good about giving my blood because I'm so healthy and I know I don't have any strange diseases lurking in my body. Well, I'm pretty sure I don't have any strange diseases lurking in my body, but one never knows, does one?

After that I went to adult ed at church. We learned about Pontus Pilate. Was he weak, or just manipulative? The question of the day. Of course, these things only ask questions and don't give any definite answers. My little discussion group said manipulative. That seemed to be the concensis of opinion of the larger group.

That's all, folks. Till next time. RS

Senior moments.

Senior moments. Alas, I have many, but I usually can cover them up pretty well. You know those kind...you go into a room to get something and forget what you came for...so you have to go back and start again. Then, there are the times you go to the grocery story for bread and come out with $20 worth of food without bread. Then you tell your husband there wasn't a loaf of bread to be found at Krogers.

My last public senior moment involved my dear grandson Jean-Luc. I got Valentines for the grands and sat down to sign and stamp them. I addressed them and put them in the mail the next day. As I'm one of the "early birds", the cards should have arrived already. Well, in the course of events, Al and I were watching Star Trek and Jean-Luc Picard was being the hero that he always is when it hit me. I had sent J-L's card off addressed to JOHN-LUKE..whoever that is. I was dismayed and had to call my number 1 grandson immediately to confess to this senior moment and assure him that I really did know how to spell his lovely name. Talk about being embarrassed.

I have told a few sympathetic friends and they told me not to beat myself up about this, but I do keep dwelling on my fauxpas...my girls used to call this a fox-paw. I'm trying to let it go, but it will be in my memory bank long after senility sets in, I'm afraid.

It is a lovely balmy day here today. After subfreezing temps for three days in a row last week, we are enjoying the moment. The doors are open and fresh air is streaming in. We have been warned by the weather folks that winter isn't over yet, so don't get your hopes up. Since becoming a southern gal, I've surely hated cold, cold, winter days. Luckily we don't get too many of them down here. By the middle of March we are all starting to think of planting flowers and tomatoes.

Till next time...I hope to keep the senior moments at a minimum, or at least only have them when I can palm them off as intentional. Ta. ta.

What about those Steelers!

Today is Groundhog's Day. As per usual ol' Phil saw his shaddow, so 6 more weeks of winter. Today Nashville is basking in a warm 40ish day. Yesterday it was 60plus so I'm not quite sure about those 6 more weeks of winter. Poor Kentucky is still reeling from an ice storm of last week and there but for a few degrees...would have been Nashville.

We are happy for the Steelers...but it was a close one. The Cardinals put up a great fight and it could have gone either way. The Steelers say...Oh, we have a whole minute to play. That's enough to go down the field and get a touchdown. And they did.

If it couldn't have been our hometown team, the Titons, we were glad for our old hometown team...the Steelers. Karen and Bela called and reported Steelermania all over town. We had our own superbowl party when they were here last week...before the big game and Joan had us all decked out in steeler finery to urge the team to victory.

I'm feeling that it's time to get back on my proper diet as for two weeks all I've done is eat. Yuck.

News from John re: Jennifer's surgery. It went well but she's had a few heart flutters so they kept her a few extra days in the hospital. She's had flutters from time to time and does take a med for that. We are hoping the heart and the surgery aren't connected. John predicted that she'd probably be sent home today (Monday). I've yet to hear so hopefully sometime today we'll get the word that she'd resting at home in Maryland.

Joan's medical test last Monday was good. Colonoscopes aren't too bad in themselves, but the getting ready for them isn't necessarily the most fun. She doesn't have to go for another one for another ten years. Al's due for another one in the spring. His first one showed a few polops which the doctor took care of at that time. So, he has to get one every five years. I'm sure this is more information than you care to know...so skip this paragraph.

I'm sending along a few picture (maybe for the next Steinmetz family photo album) of the Pater's visit. As reported earlier, Isabel is a handful. I think Karen is having an easier time of it now that Bela isn't off to Chicago every week. They seem to like their house and even though all boxes haven't been unpacked yet. Ican't fault them on that as it seemed to me I was finding boxes not unpacked when we'd been in this house for several years.

RoseMary reports that cold weather prevails in Pa. She's getting cabin feaver. I know if I don't get out every day I feel locked in.

I think Dad has a judge show on. I hear yelling. Tonight we are going to church. We are having a celebration for our 1 year anniversary of the dedication . It seems like we've been in the new church forever. I love the church. It's not Bela's cup of tea. He's into the traditional gothic church. I think he'd like to bring back the Latin mass for everyone. NOT me.

I have nattered on long enough. Till next time. Ta. ta.

Just Gabbing

I see Carla was up bright and early this a.m...blogging away. J-L, If you don't have anything to write, I must tell you that dashes----and etc. aren't very exciting. I'm sure if you dug deep enough you'd find something of interest to post. I called over the weekend to see if my comments were posted to your blogs. For some reason I couldn't tell. I asked my trusty machine to post, but it didn't come up as a posting, sooooooo what's to know. Someone out there in blog land will have to let me know what or what not to do. Help on that.

I'm like J-L. Nothing to write. It's raining here. Time is 4:30a.m. I'm hoping the rain-sleet doesn't freeze. Nothing like black ice to scare a body. The cars stayed out front last night as we were warned that this was a possibility. So far it's just wet and cold. A high of 39 is expected today.

I hate to talk about the weather. When I used to write multiple letters to folks, that seemed to be a topic of conversation. Not a very exciting subject.

We have just had an eventful week...inauguration...and we had an election in Nashville. I am happy to report that my side won. We were voting on whether all government papers should only be printed in English. We voted no to this. We were in the mayor's and governor's camps on this issue. Since English is the official language of the state (by law) we agreed that it wasn't necessary to enact legislation to make Nashville English only. I was rather ticked about this issue as it cost $350,000 to have a special election and we could have used that money for other things.

Both metro (where we live) and the state (also where we live) is in dire economic straits. The governor is talking about laying off 2000 state workers. The mayor is working on the metro budget for 09-10 and things are not looking good. They are laying all the deficit on the fact that sales taxes revenues are down. Since we don't have an income tax in Tn....times are tough.

As far as the recession goes, we aren't affected at all by it. But I know that many people are hurting. Of course, we have always been frugal with our money and haven't spent beyond our means. I am having a hard time feeling sorry for folks who bought "over their heads." What did they think was going to happen with an adjustable rate mortgage. They never go down...only UP. But chalk it up to greedy lenders and uneducated consumers. Their mothers never taught them that you can only spend a nickle one way.

Is this a vent? Perhaps.

And that's it for today. Ta. ta.

the P's vacation is almost over

Hello, out there. The Paters have been visiting all week. In the words of the immortal Maura "taking care of a baby is lots of work." Isabel is a beauty, but she's a handful. Lots of energy and a very tough cookie. Almost walking. She goes one or two or three steps, then falls on her butt and crawls away. She's a very fast crawler. We are enjoying her and I think she's having fun with us.

Karen got to see a few old friends while here. She saw Tommie Ann and family from Birmingham. They visited on Tuesday. Then on Wednesday, she and family traveled to Centerville to see Alice Ann and Amy and their families. Today she had lunch with her old piano teacher. We were to visit Alisha, but she's got a bug and is contagious...so she is saved until her next visit. Now the Ps are washing clothes so that they don't have to do that when they go home. Last night, Glenn Brown came for supper. We all had a nice visit.

We will be glad to get back on our own schedule. Karen and Bela are going out to dinner this evening (a gift from Joan). They were to go to a movie, but there isn't anything they want to see so it's just dinner.

Anyway, back to our schedule and theirs. They are hoping they can get Isabel back on her own sleep schedule. K says she doesn't believe Isabel has ever played so hard. Maura was a bit disappointed to discover that Isabel doesn't lay on a blanket and let anyone play with her. (that was good for a six-month old, but not for a year old almost walking girl.) Dad thought Maura was jealous, but she wasn't a bit jealous, she really wanted that baby all to herself and that wasn't to be.

News from Maryland. J has to have another surgery. It is scheduled for next Wednesday. It's always something.

Till next time. Ta ta.

Recipes

OK. Here it is...the definitive Steinmetz family recipe for turkey stuffing. I guess you can use it for anything else you want to stuff too, but for a Christmas turkey....here goes.
For a 12 lb turkey (or larger)....1 1/2 loves of white bread cubed...4 cups of celery cut into small pieces...2 med. onions (diced)...1 lb loose sausage..( I use mild, but some folks like the hot sausage. To save time on the day of turkey I usually cook the celery and onions together with some margarine the day before. On turkey day I brown the sausage and mix it and the celery/onion mixture with the bread. Then add a little canned broth (chicken or vegetable) to moisten. (sometimes I add a little milk if I have no broth.) Salt and pepper sparingly.

Clean turkey...don't forget to take the bag of giblets out of the neck. Then fill bird cavity and also the neck with stuffing. I dust a cooking bag with flour and put the stuffed bird in the bag. If turkey doesn't have a pop-up thermometer I stick a cooking thermometer between thigh and breast and bake at 350 for 15 minutes per lb. Usually I have stuffing mixture left and I put it in a greased casserole and bake it after the bird is done.

This recipe is rather a loose one. You may have to make a few adjustments to your taste adding more onions or celery or even more sausage if you'd like, but I have made this for many years and it's always a hi-light of the holiday dinner. Good luck..Bonapetite.

Thanks to Carla Steinmetz for on-line coaching. Love to family and friends in Florida

Brrr...Nashville is in for a cold snap

Well, I guess my first writing was just a practice one as I didn't post it properly. So, I'll try again.
Today we had a high of 40 (the weather folks say) but it didn't seem that warm when I was running in and out of my car doing my errands this a.m. Tomorrow we are to get cold from the northwest and don't expect anything higher than low single digits. I believe my blood is thin since I've lived here all this time and I hate the cold.

Today was an art day and I worked on Anton's portrait. It is coming along nicely. Chris' is next. I will search the photos for a pic of him not squinting. He does have a habit of doing that when a camera comes out. Speaking of cameras, yesterday a fellow from the Frist came and talked about the George Eastman photo exhibit. He also showed us all how to make a box camera. Very interesting. Next week we are to use that little cardboard thing to take a picture. We will use polaroid film. He said polaroid film is no longer being manufactured as digital cameras and computers have made the polaroid camera obsolete.

While I was having all this fun dad was "cleaning house." What a good man. I didn't think the house was dirty. He said we were getting company and had to look good. I said Karen and family couldn't pick apart anyone's housekeeping skills as I knew that wasn't high on their list of "to do" things. I was told that the bathrooms and kitchen were my job. I'll do them tomorrow.

The Paters are coming Friday. Isabel was supposed to get his 1 year shots today. Karen said she was going to ask the doctor for a prescription for her meds as the baby is only 3or4 days between ear infections and they will be here for a week. Isabel is scheduled for tubes next month.

Today when I came home I finished up a felted purse. I didn't think I wanted to go into the felted bag business, but a friend has made several and I just wanted to see if I could make one. It turned out rather nicely. Al said I wouldn't ever have to buy another purse as when the need arose, I could just whip one up. There was a little more to it than that.

My other project, outside of the usual baby blankets and cancer hats was a button necklace. Since I have all those buttons, I have always wanted to make one. I finally got a pattern that I could understand. Pattern makers don't always make the directions simple enough for us craftspeople. The necklace used 100 buttons. I made my with white buttons, some antique and some not antique. Al was totally unimpressed with my creation...asking me where and when I intended to wear such a thing. (the man has no imagination)

These projects remind me that "Idle hands are the devil's workshop." and also something my mother used to say often. If a day passes and you haven't anything to show for it..you have wasted the day. She surely didn't waste many days. I hope the same can be said for me when I shuffle off this mortal coil.

Guess that's it for now. Till next time.

I'm losing my mind?

Maybe I'm losing my mind. Yesterday was the first day of my teaching ART class. I love it and my students (I think) love it too. As we were leaving one of my new students asked if I was getting paid for teaching. I replied that Yes, I did get paid...not enough to put me into another tax bracket, but I did get paid. She said, "Well, you should, because you're good." Another fan.
In the afternoon I had signed up to attend another class...would you believe I thought it was today and missed it. Like I said...I think I'm losing my mind.

The Saint said I would have to start keeping a calendar so I didn't forget important stuff. I have always prided myself on not having to keep a calendar. I agreed with the late Pearl Bailey who said that she never wrote anything down as if it was important she wouldn't forget it. I guess I can't say that now.

Today was art day with other painters. I finally finished J-L's portrait. It's not bad, if I do say so myself. Anton's portrait is underway. At the present time his portrait looks a lot like Chris. I've a lot of work to do on his.

Speaking of pictures...Maura was checking out the gallery of family photos on the refrigerator and she saw the Florida Steinmetz Christmas picture. She said, there's all the Florida people. They all look good. Aunt Carla even has make-up on. The Quinn photo is also posted and Ed says it's not too bad except for the two fat people. I think all my relatives are beautiful.

Today at lunch I met a woman who worked in an airplane plane during WW2. She had lots of stories and was very interesting. Then she veered off the subject and said many things I didn't agree with re: gays, the mayor, the upcoming referendum...etc. I was a polite younger woman and didn't argue with her. I liked her better when she was telling about working in the factory during the Big WAR.

I already wrote once today, but when it came time to post my blog...I still think the only people in the world who would think anything I have to say are family. This fun. I hope I can get this posted so that faithful readers can catch up on my "Ramblings."

Ta--ta.

New Year's Day '09

Today is Isabel's birthday. She's one year old already and the most recent report from her mom is that she's got to have tubes put in her ears. Too many ear infections in too short a time.

I never make resolutions as they usually go by the wayside about the middle of the second week. So, I'm going to think about the "Just for Today" column that Abby writes. Just for today, I'm going to eat sensibly. Just for today, I'll not gossip. Just for today, I'll think good thoughts. Just for today I'll try to be a good neighbor. Just for today, I'll read to learn something. Just for today, I'll say my prayers. Just for today....well, you get the picture. We can do anything for just one day. I think that's what the AA folks say. Just for today, I'll not drink.

Bill and Carla are posting interesting blogs. I've commented on a couple of Bill's and also Jean-Luc's, but for some reason I'm not able to comment on Carla's. To figure out what I'm doing wrong in re to this is a job for another day. I did enjoy the Epcot trip. I'm sure Carla's feet were killing her when she got home.

This is the day the Christmas decorations are usually put to bed for another year, but as the Paters are coming on the 18th, we have been asked to leave them up till after their visit. We are anxious to see everyone. One thing when people come after Christmas, you don't have to be in too big a hurry to get their gifts before the big day.

Joan and I took Maura to see Devereaux. There were a few dark places in that movie. I think maybe little kids might be frightened. Even Maura had to sit on her mom's lap a couple of times. There were a lot of kids and parents there that afternoon. Maura with her wide network of friends was going to see "Bedtime Story" yesterday. The Bennetts went to see the "Benjamin" story. They gave it two thumbs up. I guess this is a movie review column.

That's all, folks. Ta, Ta.