NEW YEAR RESTORATION

NEW YEAR'S RESOLUTION---

"RESTORE THE JOY TO MY LIFE"

Scriptural Basis For My Resolution-

"Restore to me the joy of your salvation and grant me a willing spirit, to sustain me." Psalm 51:12

I plan to pray this daily---to change my life and my outlook on the future. HE will sustain me and grant me joy and the peace that is--only found in Him.

Celebrate with Thanksgiving the many Blessings He has bestowed upon you tonight and keep your eyes upon your Eternal Future.

THE TRUTH-THE WHOLE TRUTH AND NOTHING BUT THE TRUTH!

I have a New Year's Resolution this year to restore the joy to my life. I have plenty to be joyful about-----the problem seems to be that the negatives in my life have drug me down and taken most of my conscious "Thinking".

SO----in an effort to restore that Joy----perhaps I need to "throw out the trash"----Get Rid of The Negatives!

It is unbelievable how the negatives in your life can over-whelm and convince you of your unworthiness. Those that are around me that are "Positives" need to be on the "Front Row" and those that pull me down and instill low self image--need to be tossed.

Perhaps it is time to tell the truth--the whole truth-----clear the slate---start anew---the world will be shocked---BUT I will be truly who I am----AND THAT ISN'T SO BAD AFTER ALL!

MAYBE even a new blog-----OUT WITH THE OLD & IN WITH THE NEW----
I am looking for a catchy title---got any thoughts?

KERFUFFLE

As the Scots would say, my life is a kerfuffle currently. God is teaching me and stretching me. It is painful at times---but He is drawing me and showing me His character. He is the Faithful One who is the "Author of Love".

A VERY SAD DAY

Two months ago today, I arrived in Erie for the birth of little Elliot. Today I flew home from Erie and left the little family. It is a VERY SAD day for me!

THE LAST ONE BITES THE DUST!

The entire family has passed around a most delightful cold and I have finally biten then dust. It could be the cold that Camille started out with and gave to Henry & her Daddy as well as her husband and then to Elliot. It could be the NEW cold that Adam brought home from his current rotation in Urgent Care last week. WHO KNOWS? All I do know is that I am MISERABLE! Can't find a drug to really help and not getting any better.

It either lets up---or I jump off the cliff! Can't BEGIN to think about climbing on that airplane this congested!

MADELINE WITH A BOUNCE

Who says Grandmas can't multi-task. While cooking the white/cheese sauce for spinach madeline for BC's office party, I bounced Elliot's seat with my foot. He LOVED IT!

HENRY & HIS FIRST GIRL

During the Thanksgiving holiday, Camille's best friend, Mary Lou came to see us with her sweet daughter, Tristyn. Henry was enamored with this "Older Woman". He jabbered and jabbered to her---unfortunately, we could not understand much of it---but I think I may be able to translate.

"Tristyn, you are truly beautiful and I could see us spending our lives together. I have many roads to travel in the near future, but if you only keep me in mind----we could be together some day. I am the man for you and you are the woman for me----I will even let you ride my choo choo first! Tristyn, with such wonderful Mommies, we could only play sweet music together. If you will be my girl, I will be your boy----Tristyn---we could be such great playmates. Hold on--my mommie says as soon as I am 18, I can take you to the movie. We are destined for each other-sweet Tristyn---just wait for me."

I will probably be in the Nursing Home by then, but will wait with great anticipation until that day!

NEW PARENT WISDOM

Tonight Adam was instructing Henry on picking up his clothes and putting them on the stairs to be taken upstairs and put away. He said with all the fatherly wisdom of a Dad with a 19 month old, "If you teach him now, when he is older, he will put things where they go and be neat and orderly." After I picked myself up off the floor, I invited him to go upstairs and look at his and Camille's room. SUCH NAIVETY!

MY ANNUAL CHRISTMAS LETTER

It's that time of the year when I have begun to receive those annual Christmas letters from friends and even casual acquintances from across the states. It's always heart warming to hear how well everyone is doing----how many awards, how much money, what perfect health--and in a nutshell how Blissful their lives are. I have decided to post my letter on this blog. This will be Volume One of a LONG DISMAL recital of what this year has held-----Stay Tuned perhaps I will bore you with the ENTIRE recount.

Seasons' Greetings!

It has been SUCH JOY to receive your long recounts of the wonderful year you and yours have enjoyed. It is really quite humbling to know idyllic perfection in the lives of you and all your loved ones

In reflection, I find my life slightly off a bubble from "Idyllic Perfection". In fact the bubble is so far from the center, that it has slipped over the edge--as I occasionally have during this fine year.

I have always enjoyed gardening and I began this year of growth with the optimism of "Hope Springing Eternal". The first planting was taken by a late Spring chill--to be exact a HARD FREEZE. Oh well---not to be dismayed--I ripped those wilted and browned plants out of the rich Louisiana soil and began again. After countless trips to countless nurseries fanned out across north Louisiana, I had the perfect mix in the ground all planted with great care and love. A VERY wet Spring found this mixture of flauna and flora floating to the top of the soil and all lying about exposed to the enemies of gardeners everywhere. The third and final planting should be the crowning jewel. With the few tender young plants that could still be found in picked over nurseries within 5 miles proved to be the final planting. The HOT AND LONG DROUGHT then set in. The plants remainded the same size all summer -even with a sprinkler system going off twice a night EVERY night and waking me from the light dusting of sleep that I enjoy. The fall comes and the perfect conditons finally arrive. The plants TAKE OFF and I find that they are so thick that the Amazon Jungle would not compare. After my SECOND thinning---I seem to have it under control. The first freeze of the Fall comes the next week and the plants all remain in wilted - brown gnarled piles as I write.

Speaking of sleep, my sleep or lack thereof has reached new lows. I am okay though as long as I get at least 2 good hours of sleep every night. The positive thing about no sleep during the night is all the hours of prayer time this has opened up. The one negative is trying to match my make up to the black shade now under my eyes.

My on-going battle with all the creatures of the forest has lead to a HUGE dimishment of the armadillo and squirrel population here in Vienna. Unforunately, this has lead to the discovery of the vacuum effect of trapping and releasing animals. The more you take off the more the vacuum sucks in. I have bought stock in the Smith & Wesson company since my armaments have tripled during armadillo season.

On a bright note, I have had my two youngest grandbabies with me for two months. Every moment has been pure joy---well except for those moments that we were changing diapers, wiping up human fluids, washing their clothes and cleaning up their messes. That would be about 5 minutes of every day that has been free to soak up the joy.

My exercise has taken an entirely new direction--that direction would be NOT exercising. One positive note is that my hips and knees do not hurt all of the time now, but I also lack the strength to get myself out of bed without a push from behind. I am glad to report that I am no longer the rear end inspector for our running group --some other turtle will have to fill that roll.

Well I find I am at the end of my paper----AND I HAVEN'T EVEN APPROACHED the long saga of my loved ones. That will have to come in Volume Two.

Merry Christmas--indeed---all of you Garden of Eden Dwellers. As for the rest of us---you will find us in the Desert of Reality!

Lora

FOR NOW

FOR NOW---I HAVE NO WORDS

EXPLANATION

What could possibly be the reason that we have no more pictures of Elliot--the newest grand? His other grandparents came for a visit today---but did we make even one picture---NO! Perhaps it might have something to do with the constant motion we are in? At one point today Camille and I both were in the floor changing the diapers f the two boys. There is a constant flow of playing, eating, playing, baths, playing, diaper changes, cooking, playing, washing clothes, and playing---It is the basis for the scientific theory that energy never disappears---but just keeps on keeping on.

MEANWHILE---I drug my self out of the bed this AM and went for a run. I will refrain from using the word that describes my run---let's just say that I have a lot in common with the vacuum.

BE THE CHURCH SUNDAY

We started a new annual tradition at Christ Community today. Instead of worshipping at "church" today, we spread out all over the community and served those around us. There were more projects than I can remember, but they included painting a house of an elderly couple, a project at the Boys & Girls Club, working for Christian Community Action, working at Crisis Pregnancy Center, working at DART, visiting nursing homes, baking cookies for local fireman and policeman, sending cards to missionaries, helping total strangers, and the projects I helped organized at Cypress Springs School.

We had two projects on tap for CSE-----one of them fell apart Thursday AM---but with a QUICK change in direction----we came up with another one. The staff and students will be so surprised when they return to school in a week and see what "The Body of Christ" has done for them. It was PURE JOY working on the projects with MANY to help and all with GREAT attitudes! What a day!

Pictures to come----but I need to go to bed----EXHAUSTED after a day of good work!

MY DELUSIONAL DAUGHTER!

Camille has taken to telling TALL tales! It seems that while she was in the back yard (I use yard VERY loosely!) with the boys, she saw a LARGE ---FLOWING LONG RED HAIRED animal sprinting across the back yard. At first she SWORE it was a LARGE fox. We kept telling her foxes do not get that big--she finally accepted our wisdom AFTER she googled it and found out foxes do not weigh more than 13 pounds. She thinks this varmint was the size of their boxer, Powers. She then changed her story and said it was a red wolf---even googled that ---but alas they have been extinct for some time. The story is getting fishier by the moment and she is getting more defensive with each telling. I asked her was she still on her medication. She didn't think that was real funny. OF COURSE---she is suffering from sleep deprivation and hormone overload.

BUT--IF ANYONE SEES THE MYSTERIOUS LARGE-FLOWING RED HAIRED ANIMAL THAT SPRINTS LIKE A WILD ANIMAL----PLEASE CALL US!

WHY?

Why is it that baby boys ALWAYS feel the need to tinkle when you take their diaper off? I MEAN ALMOST EVERYTIME! It's like their brain goes-"HEY LOOK we are unencumbered---NOW would be a great time!" More things have been sprayed around here than I care to recount!

EXCUSES

I know in my head that the answer to "showing up" for running is having a time to show and someone waiting for me to show. I made a date to run tomorrow-MONDAY AM. I am supposed to show. I find myself making excuses tonight about why I won't be running tomorrow. If there is a drop of rain falling from the sky---etc etc etc. It's really difficult to climb back on the horse after being off for more than 3 weeks. HEIGH OH SILVER!

RECOVERY

After a good night's sleep last night and a 2 hour nap today, I almost feel recovered from my time in Erie. I did not have to get up with Elliot during the night, but the curse of light sleeping follows me wherever I go. I would hear him during the night, even though I slept on the couch downstairs. Henry was an early morning riser, and as always I felt the need to finish every project before coming home.

Since arriving in LA, we are re-establishing a routine--in a new time zone. Hope to get back to my running Monday.The days are VERY busy with chasing an 18 month old and helping with Elliot. I am back to my volunteer work and busy with a HUGE project for next Sunday for church. Basically life has returned to my normal Louisiana frantic pace! OH--BUT AM I ENJOYING THE LA WEATHER! It is indeed wonderful to be back in the sun and warmth!

MAN SHACK TO BOYS' CLUB

My BIG project while in Erie was turning Adam's "Man Shack" into Henry & Elliot's "Boys' Club'. After experiencing the dreary Erie weather for a few days, I KNEW for Camille to survive this winter with a toddler-she would need another space to entertain H. So POOR Adam lost his--medical library, den, office, fly fishing emporium, hang out space to Henry. I felt SO sorry for him-NOT!

We took everything but the desk with the computer (after all Henry can watch DVDs on it) and the tall blue book shelf out. Cleared out the middle of the room for play space. Added LOTS of primary bright colors and lighting AND WAA LAA-----A PLAY ROOM!

We started here.
This shelf was cleaned out and moved to the den.

DA DA before eviction.

I am boxing up books here

The Fly Fishing Corner

H & DaDa Putting Together Bin Shelf

Padded Alphabet Rug

Bin with toys and new table and chairs (which H colored on in the 1st 5 minutes)

LOTS OF FUN TO PUT IT ALL TOGETHER AND ANOTHER SPOT TO PLAY FOR H!

DWINDLING DAYS!

My hours in Erie are drawing to a close. I made good progress today, but have a list that would choke a horse for tomorrow. I am at the point in my life---what I get done is great-what I don't will not cause any catastrophic happening. Well I may be a little stressed by the undones-but I will go home to an entire new list.

Tonight I made Southern comfort food after Camille requested it last night. Have not cooked this meal in YEARS--after we vowed to eat better. Used to be an every week staple---but no more. Fried Round Steak smothered in gravy with rice and whole kernel corn and biscuits. HEAVY! Didn't really need any dessert.

Mr. Henry did better with the time today. He was not as ill and I didn't put him to bed until 7 which is his normal bedtime. After 2 mornings of 5 AM awakenings---I could use a break tomorrow. We will see!

WHOSE IDEA WAS THIS!!!!!

I tried to recount to The Jennings tonight at supper what brought about daylight savings time. We all agreed after the conversation that WHOEVER came up with the bright idea did not have a small child! Today has been a tough day for Henry which began at 5:30 AM NEW TIME. We extended his normal -body rhythm- bedtime by 30 minutes and hopefully will make the transition slowly-but surely. Then we will be in LA and in a different time zone- YOU CAN'T WIN!

I am winding down my Erie time and trying to get EVERYTHING done before leaving on a jet plane! Have a week's worth of meals in the freezer for the young family, ALMOST through with the "Big Project"---pictures coming, will have household supplies stocked and in place before leaving, clean house and all clean clothes and linens---STILL NEED TO GET IN THAT YARD. THE good news is that Erie weather was nice today and should stay nice until I leave. HOPEFULLY--I will get in that yard.

My mind then turns to what is going on at home. Will be going the day after I get home to tutor and work at my adopted school, BIG project at the school to tie up loose ends for, groceries to be bought and supplies stocked for The Jennings stay in LA, Thanksgiving to start to think about-----I need a few more hours in everyday!

Elliot is growing---I looked at pictures from his first days and compared them to him today---UNBELIEVABLE!

No more time to blog---I have miles to go before I sleep-------

A DIFFERENT STRATOSPHERE

I had a reminder yesterday of a feeling from LONG AGO past. The days seem to have evolved into a cycle of preparing meals, cleaning, washing, changing diapers, baths, playing with toddlers-and the cycle then begins again. All of a sudden, you can't remember what day it is and today seems like yesterday and tomorrow will be the same. A young mommie's life is like this merry go round of never ending activity. At the end of the day, when you think of what you accomplished---you lived that day and kept things going. That's not a bad thing--that's a good thing. Life becomes a series of small moments and miracles that are sometimes difficult to remember.

I have been in Erie long enough to begin to feel isolated from the world that I normally live in. It's like they have forgotten me---and I am lost in the World of Babies. I miss home. I told Camille last night---I need some outside time--hard to get in this weather. I also miss my runs-with my buds. This dreary weather does nothing to help alleviate this mood.

All this brings to mind what Camille's life will be like when she is here with the 2 and we all have gone. She is really good about intentionally keeping contact with her friends and getting out. Is that going to be possible in the dark and cold of the Erie winter? If ANYONE can do it---it will be Camille. At this current moment---it is daunting for me to even think about how she will manage---but she will! Meanwhile---I will probably keep the airways busy and the Airlines profits up traveling this not so fun trek to Erie.

I can visibly see Elliot growing. I was looking at him yesterday and thinking how much he has filled out already. He and Henry have a wonderful Mommie and Daddy---LUCKY BOYS!

TWO ON TWO

In the ultimate trial by fire, Da-Da not only leaves Momma & me with the 18 month old and the 1 week old alone-BUT we have to take them for their check up with the ped yesterday. NOW THAT WAS A FUN OUTING! To top that off H has to get 2 immunizations! DOUBLE THE FUN! Remember Camille cannot pick up H & CERTAINLY cannot carry the baby carrier with Bubba in it. SO OFF WE GO. It is QUITE the study in logistics to see how we accomplish even getting everyone into the car--BUT I don't have enough time to post ALL those steps. Once we get to the doctor----I have Henry on one hip and Elliot dangling from the other arm in his carrier. We finally get into the waiting room--having lost one blanket on the way. After a few minutes wait----the nurse comes to get us. She then stands back and just watches as I begin the trek down the hall with my weighted toddle. THANKS A LOT FOR ALL THE HELP! Then an army of 3 nurses come in and begin the measuring-recording the facts ritual. Henry is NOT HAPPY from the very first strip it off order! We are finally left alone in the room with 2 stripped babies to wait for the doctor for approximately 30 minutes. WHAT IS WRONG WITH THESE PEOPLE! Finally have our doctor visit and get home. We have been gone for a little over 2 hours---but what seems like a day! \

My day started at 5:30 to get this show on the road by 7:45. The doctor tells Camille to be careful with the baby that he does not get H's cold. WELL THAT'S DEFINITELY EASY TO DO. By the time we get home, the baby has begun sneezing and we determine has managed to get the cold by the secretions (I would use Camille's descriptions--but it's too gross for public consumption). SOMEHOW we manage to survive the day----the laundry had to wait until Henry went to bed and I am up early finishing it and blogging (LIKE I HAVE NOTHING ELSE TO DO). There is a need to record all of this---for future reference. After all------DaDa----TO MY MIND IS BEHIND ON THE TOTE BOARD! HE WILL HAVE SOME SERIOUS CATCHING UP TO DO WHEN HE GETS HOME!

Not sure how Camille will manage all of this one on one! MANY MANY MANY other Mothers have as we have learned---BUT IT IS QUITE DAUNTING!

By the way----E had gained a pound since leaving the hospital thanks to his champion of a Mom's feeding abilities. H is up to the 50% in height and 15% in weight. We like our men lean! He had gained all the way up to 23 #---thanks to Momma Lulu's steady diet of ice cream sandwiches!

MESSAGE FOR DA-DA

My favorite SIL left this AM for a residency interview. He had some doubts about us handling things while he was away---SO FOR HIS INFO-

Got up at 5:45 to watch Baby Bubba and started doing my deal. Washed 5 loads of clothes including stripping the master bed and washing it and the spread. Fed Henry 3 meals-though I will say he is off his feed-with his cold. Cleaned house-including vacuuming floors and couch (WHO KNEW SO MANY CHEERIOS WOULD FIT UNDER THOSE CUSHIONS!) Raked part of the backyard-have lots left to do there though. Took Henry to the park, took his Mom to vote-along with Baby Bubba riding with us, bathed Henry, got diaper bag ready for tomorrow's Dr's appt, put Henry to bed. Cooked Camille Pasta Primerva with Smoked Gouda for supper---had time for this quick blog! OH YES--got plenty of rocking in during the day also! So far we are surviving DaDa-SO DON'T WORRY. We will let you play catch up when you get home!

TYPICAL DAY!

I am posting on Camille's old laptop-so limited pictures SORRY!

What is involved in a typical day of taking care of The Jennings Family?

My day starts with getting up with H when he awakens around 6. His Mom & Dad sleep until the next feeding time around 8 or so since they are the ones missing sleep at night. This is our special time of the day with no one else around. One of the things we did this morning was sit on the couch and listen to the train-somewhere far away. It was a sweet 30 minutes.

We looked out the window at the dark and talked about Dada's canoe and truck and listened for the train whistle. When I listened I put my hand behind my ear and said, "Listen". He quickly picked up on that and spent the remainder of the day-putting his hand behind his ear and saying something like "Listen".

The first thing we do every AM is play with the train in his room before coming down and fixing his breakfast. We then just PLAY! Once Dada gets up-I usually get busy. We all take turns changing MANY diapers a day and most of the time changing Baby Bubba's clothes a few times-between wet and spitting up. I pick up the house-several times a day, wash 3-4 loads of laundry, prepare all the meals, do the housekeeping and PLAY and ROCK!

Tonight we had one of Camille's favorite meals---Meat loaf, smothered squash & onions, & smashed potatoes. I am sorting H's clothes slowly but surely to weed out things he has out-grown--SOMETIMES after the trail & error of putting something too small on him. I have been cleaning out the kitchen cabinets. I have started raking the yard-but not gotten very far-since H requires LOTS of attention.

Camille has one LARGE project for me to do---we haven't even managed to begin it yet! Don't know how I will get it done and the yard. I could use some help with the leaf pick up & yard work if anyone from Erie has any suggestions. I have used a couple of local co's in the past that I thought WAY over-charged and the last one didn't fulfill all he promised. Also need someone to cut a tree that is dead.

IT IS COLD IN ERIE! I didn't come prepared for it to be THIS COLD!

By the way----Baby Bubba is a SWEET BABY!

TYPHOID CAMILLE

Henry, aka Big Bubba, has a virus. He feels pretty rotten and consequently is an ill pill. Camille had the virus the week before Baby Bubba was born. Since we have been here in slightly over a week, Poppa Bob has gone home with same virus and now Henry is ailing. DaDa is also trying to claim sick---I'm not having that! Perhaps I am too mean or too busy to get it---I can only hope!

New parents did go out to a friend's Halloween party last night. Camille had a C section-LAST MONDAY and is really amazing with all she is doing. We made these cute little mummies for her to take as a food offering to their party. I am anxious to hear what everyone thought.

For now---I am waiting for Big Bubba to rise & shine-it's that time. Busy day!

THREE ON TWO

After a day's delay from bad weather, BC is back on home territory. SO that leaves 3 adults and 2 babies. We have not stopped ALL DAY! It's all joy though! This afternoon while Da Da napped and Momma fed Elliot-Henry was having a tough time. I got about a dozen plastic cups out of the pantry and we played for almost an hour with them and his trucks. We built towers, we stacked them, we made barricades to ride our trucks through, and we rammed them down with the truck. HE LOVED IT---It is truly the simple things-mostly one on one together time!

Note to my running buds-IT IS COLD UP HERE! In the 40's today and raining and very windy--we would all be shivering and complaining with longer pants and long sleeve shirts (well except for Sandra). I saw one of the natives running in shorts and tank through the rain. My blood is too thin from all the years in the South---I'll bet these PA runners couldn't take our heat and humidity though~

BABY BUBBA

BABY ELLIOT MADE HIS APPEARANCE MONDAY AM. MOM & BABY ARE HOME ALREADY & WE ARE SLIGHTLY BUSY HERE. HENRY CANNOT GET HIS TONGUE AROUND ELLIOT, SO WE ARE CALLING HIM BABY BUBBA! AFTER A ROCKY START AS EVIDENCED BY THE ABOVE PICTURE, HE IS BEGINNING TO GET USED TO THE IDEA OF ANOTHER SIBLING AROUND. EXCEPT FOR THE MAJOR MELTDOWN WHEN HIS DADDY WOULD NOT LET HIM HAVE AN ICE CREAM SANDWICH AFTER NOT EATING SUPPER, THINGS ARE SETTLING IN. ALL IT TAKES IT 4 ADULTS-UNTIL BC LEFT TODAY TO KEEP THINGS GOING SMOOTHLY! MORE TO COME-WE SHOULD BEGIN TO SETTLE INTO A ROUTINE SOON.

ANGELINA

Occasionally flying---it proves HIGH LARIOUS----

On the last leg of our journey, I sat by Angelina---quite by accident-since BC offered to change seats with her as a courtesy (LONG STORY). Angelina is a native of Venezuela, was an engineer now living in Chicago who had been in New York working. She was on her way to Erie for her friend's, from Panama, wedding. We struck up a conversation and let me preface this with the statement that she had already begun the celebration. After a short lead in-this is the conversation--please speak all of Angelina's lines with a strong Latino accent for the FULL effect

A- When I discovered that my stay in New York would not end in time to fly back to Chicago for the wedding, I was in a panic. I called my friend from Chicago and told her to go to my house and get the dress that I was wearing to the wedding and the wedding gift. Wrap the wedding gift and ship them all to the bride in Erie.

Me- That was smart.

A- Yes-but my friend, the bride, called me and said, 'You gave me a dress as a wedding gift? And not just a dress--but a used dress in the cleaner's bag.'

Me-Laughing--She thought you had sent her the dress--WHY?

A-Well my friend who shipped the dress had wrapped it inside the luggage I got for a wedding gift, so it was all wrapped up.

WE BOTH LAUGHED AND LAUGHED.

Then we land and I think we are bidding adieu.

She opens her purse and holds up one black 4 " heel.

A-Oh Yes, she also shipped the other black shoe in the luggage. When I asked my friend to send the shoes, she could only find one. So I looked in my suitcase in New York and there was the other one.

Me---SPEECHLESSLY LAUGHING

A-My Chicago friend told me that I was in New York and I could go buy a pair of shoes, but I told her I am going to dance the night away and need these good looking, but comfortable shoes.

OK---so the friend had put the dress in the cleaner's bag and one black high heel shoe into the luggage which was a wedding gift and gift wrapped the whole thing and shipped it.

By this time I was laughing so hard that the entire plane was turning and looking and BC is quite envious of my really great time.

We get off the plane, and there stands the bride's brother holding a sign with Angelina's name waiting to whisk her off to a great weekend. WHY DON'T I EVER GET INVITED TO THESE KIND OF REALLY FUN WEDDINGS!

WATCH OUT ERIE!

I am off to fly the friendly skies-well the skies anyway-today via Houston, Cleveland & finally Erie--I am on my way. I am anticipating enjoying the beautiful Fall Colors that I saw while there last October. My sweet daughter has also mentioned that I might enjoy raking those colors out of her yard while there. It has to stop raining first!

We will be welcoming Elliot into the fold and entertaining Henry A LOT! If this rain continues, I plan to take him to the mall and let him go. SO if you happen to see a 2 foot flash run by with a silver streak in close pursuit----say Hello. If I happen to speak to you first, since we Southerners speak to one and all, say Hello back--DON'T look at me like I have lost my mind. If you want to see 2 really cute babies, enjoy some slow talking, and feast on a Southern delicacy--come on over!

While in Erie, I will once again be trying to convince my favorite sil of how wise and wonderful I am. He's just not quite on board with all of that yet!

SO WATCH OUT ERIE--THE SOUTHERN SILVER STREAK --WILL BE VISITING YOUR LOVELY TOWN FOR A WHILE!

JUST IN CASE-TODAY I SPRINTED!!

There is something about leaving town for a few days that throws me into a tailspin. I have this strange compulsion that EVERYTHING must be taken care of and in its place when I leave. When I leave for more than a few days-that entails LOTS of planning. November's bills have to be all taken care of -in their envelopes-or scheduled for on-line payment. ALL the loose paperwork and business in my office has to be in order. The yard has to be cleaned--the house has to be clean----the clothes have to all be clean. Everything for my volunteer work has to be in order--future projects planned---all notified of my leaving---future lessons for the student I tutor prepared and explained to her. The car has to be washed and full of gas-FLYING NOT DRIVING on this trip. There is PLENTY to do and today I sprinted to finish it all. NOW TO PACK!

You might ask WHY----why this strange need. WELL- you never know when the plane may fall out of the sky, I might have a heart attack, or one of those crazy Erie drivers might run over me.....It's kind of like the old saying "Don't ever leave the house in holey (NOT HOLY) underwear---you have a wreck for sure." In case I don't make it back and you all come over--things need to be in order. SO--I'm ready---and I am not packing any holey underwear!

CONVERSATIONS WITH AN 8 YEAR OLD

As we ALL know, boys are notorious for short conversations on the telephone, but young grandsons are especially brief in the telephone communication. I recently received a "Flat Stanley" from Grand #2. As Camille and Meredith both told me, perhaps I over-functioned a tad bit--BUT it's important! I made the requisite pictures around Ruston with Stanley and then instead of just putting them in a envelope with a letter, I made a book. IT WAS CUTE-I PROMISE. Since I had waited until the last minute to finish the project, I Fed Exed it to #2. I finally called his Daddy yesterday to make sure he had received it and he said, "He hasn't called you yet?" DUH--why would I be calling and asking if I had talked with him?

#2 called last night and here is how the conversation went:

Me-Hello
Me-Hello
Me-Hello
Me-Is this a call from Austin
#2-Thanks for the Flat Stanley thing
Me-Did you like it
#2-yeah
Me-Did your class like it
#2-yeah
Me-Where else did Stanley go?
#2-Nowhere
Me-I thought you said he went to New York City also?
#2-Oh yeah
Me-How's football going?
#2-Fine
Me-Have you scored anymore TD's (he ran for a touchdown when we were there)
#2-Yeah
Me-How many more TD's have you scored?
#2-5 or 2
Me-Do you score one in every game?
#2-I don't know
Me-When are you coming to see us?
#2-silence----I can literally feel him slipping away--staring off into space---zoned out
Me-Thank you for calling, I love you
#2-Grunt

NOW what I didn't tell you is that I had to repeat everything I said at least twice-He would said WHAT? I would repeat and sometimes we did that again. Don't know if he wasn't listening or if I had marbles in my mouth.

LOVE These Conversations. He will make some girl SO happy someday when he calls her! Hope I live long enough to tell his future wife of these LONG talks we enjoyed! SUCH A BOY!!!

VIENNA NATURE PRESERVE

baby deer pictures by FreeNaturePictures.com

We have a regular nature preserve going out here! Last night while looking for the fox, I discovered Mr. Raccoon is coming up to eat the goodies left for the fox. That's alright-I like raccoons also. This AM around 7 AM I looked out the leaded glass door and discovered a LARGE doe and her two yearlings grazing along the driveway. BC and Meredith both came running and we watched in fascination-----AND THEN IT TURNED UGLY! Momma Deer started nibbling on my susanqua------BAD DEER! I had to open the door and shoo them away--TOO MANY LONG HOURS GARDENING to allow that in my clear sight! They ran about 20 feet stopped and leisurely strolled down the back toward the creek. SOMETHING TELLS ME THEY MAY BE BACK!

HOW THE WORLD SEES US

Meredith's friend, Ying, was gracious enough to interpret for us at CSE. We had a Chinese student transfer to school this year who read and writes English, but does not speak English. When I started looking for an someone to interpret, of course, Meredith knew someone. Ying has been in the states for two years and is working on her MBA at the local university. I invited her for supper after she came and helped at CSE as repayment for her kindness. We had such an interesting evening and it was eye opening to hear how the world sees us as Americans. I don't think I will share all she said, but I will say there are many students from many countries here in America. Get connected to one-and learn. It was an quite an evening!

WHAT'S WRONG WITH YOU PEOPLE!!!!!

One of the neat add ons to my blog is on the right side of the blog at the bottom. You can basically see where people came from who looked at your blog and if they came from a WWW search-what they were searching for.

One of my blogs was about stripping off clothes when layered in the winter cold as my body heats up during the long miles of running. I think I entitled it, "Saturday Strip Tease".
Can I tell you HOW MANY times someone was searching for Old Ladies Stripping or some such when they came to the blog. GROSS WHAT IS WRONG WITH YOU PEOPLE!!!!!

I do get a great deal of satisfaction knowing how disappointed the searcher must be when he gets to my little scandal less piece of the Internet!

UPPING THE MILEAGE

In an effort to sleep late, ONE DAY, I got up at 4:15 yesterday to run at 4:45.
Met those die-hard runners who wouldn't miss a run if the world was turned
upside down. With the cooler weather in the early morning hours, I have finally
gotten my mileage back up to 9. Hopefully I will find someone to run with me
next Friday before lifting off to fly the friendly skies and get back to the
desired 10. A ten mile base is a great place to stay until you train for a long
race.

So I go to bed last night anticipating a late-lazy
Saturday morning. BC gets up somewhere around
6 AM and gets dressed-in our bedroom-to go for
a walk. Guess who is Miss High Maintenace Sleeper
and wakes up as he is stirring around-trying to be
quiet.

SO MUCH FOR A LAZY SATURDAY~

LESSONS FROM GOD

I am currently involved in a LARGE project for CCC that involves two service projects for the school where I volunteer. I have been in MAJOR over-drive trying to get all the details ironed out before I leave for Baby Dos ONE WEEK FROM TODAY! I wanted to leave knowing I would come home with only last minute details and a clear picture of "What would happen" the day of the project.

God seems to have a different idea. He is teaching me to let go of the control and trust He will work out even the details. IT IS NOT EASY!!! I have skirted around the "letting go" unsuccessfully---but have still tried to let go of only parts, have my plans ultimately come to fruition, even totally balking at the idea. He will not let me go there though.

I will leave with the "Project" in someone else's lap. Will it all get done without me? We will see. I must say that my mind is saying---"When I get back, I will go into overdrive if it doesn't get done by others who are now sitting in the driver's seat" Still doubting Still having a hard time letting go Still hesitant.

HE IS TEACHING ME AND NOT LETTING UP--NOT GIVING IN TO MY NEED FOR CONTROL---MAKING ME TRUST HIM. IT'S NOT EASY--I must confess. My need for control and lack of trust are over-whelming. BUT I am back in the corner and at a stand still---so I have no choice.

OVER--FUNCTION-----NEVER!!!

Flat Stanley came to Ruston for a short visit from Austin. He was here to make a few pictures and take home a few comments about the sites in Ruston. I decided to make a short book out of Stantley's visit. SOME----who will remain nameless (she lives in Erie, PA) say that I MIGHT BE OVER-FUNCTIONING! WHAT IS SHE TALKING ABOUT?????

TEXT OF TALK

I gave a brief "Moment for Missions" talk at church this AM about our ministry at Cypress Springs school. A little out of my comfort zone, but I feel challenged by God to do just that--Get Out of My Comfort Zone------

GOD WISELY CHOSE YVETTE BROOCKS TO GET OUR CSE SCHOOL MINISTRY STARTED AND SHE CONTINUES TODAY TO KEEP US INSPIRED AND ORGANIZED. CSE IS AN “AT RISK SCHOOL” WHICH IN LAYMAN TERMS MEANS IT IS FILLED WITH CHILDREN WHO ARE “THE LEAST OF THESE.” YOU HAVE A SCHOOL WHOSE PARENTS ARE STRUGGLING TO KEEP A ROOF OVER THEIR HEADS AND FOOD ON THE TABLE, BUT ARE ALSO PROUD OF THEIR PRECIOUS CHILDREN.
THE FACULTY AND STAFF OF 68 ENTER THEIR MISSION FIELD EACH AND EVERY SCHOOL DAY WHEN THEY CROSS THAT THRESHOLD.
OUR MINISTRY IS TO WALK SIDE BY SIDE WITH THE STAFF AND PARENTS AND SHOW THEM THE LOVE OF GOD BY OUR SERVICE TO THEM. WE PROVIDE UNIFORMS, SNACKS FOR THE STAFF, WE MAKE SIGNS AND BANNERS, WE STRAIGHTEN SHELVES, WE COPY, LAMINATE, CUT & PASTE, AND WE SIT WITH ONE CHILD OR A CLASSROOM OF CHILDREN READING AND TUTORING. WE ARRANGE FOR CALCULATORS, HONOR ROLL REWARDS, AND BLUE RIBBONS FOR EXTRA EFFORT. OUR SMALL GROUP HAS BEEN BLESSED TO HOST LUNCHES TO HONOR AND ENCOURAGE THE STAFF-WE WOULD LOVE TO SHARE THIS BLESSING WITH YOUR SMALL GROUP.
THE PRINCIPAL, MRS. LEWIS HAS REQUESTED TWO LARGE PROJECTS THAT WE WILL TACKLE ON “BE THE CHURCH” SUNDAY. WE ARE KEEPING THESE PROJECTS A SECRET TO SURPRISE THE ENTIRE SCHOOL WHEN THEY RETURN FROM THANKSGIVING VACTAION.
WHAT CAN YOU DO? PLENTY! JUST KEEP SAYING YES--- CONTINUE TO PROVIDE THOSE SNACKS, VOLUNTEER FOR EVEN ONE HOUR, HELP WITH THE BIG PROJECTS--- INCLUDING THE FUNDS FOR SUPPLIES . THERE IS PLENTY TO DO AND A SPOT FOR YOU!
AND THEN YOU MIGHT ASK WHAT IS THE REWARD? OVER 600 SMILES, COUNTLESS THANK YOUS AND THE SWEET ASSURANCE THAT GOD IS SMILING AS YOU TRULY SERVE “THE LEAST OF THESE”!

HAPPINESS

During small group, I asked the question---"What makes you happy" not in a spiritual sense, but in the world? We had a variety of answers, but they all centered around mostly the simple things of life. There was one answer that I feel I need to share-

BC looked across the room DIRECTLY at me and said,

"I just want the roof and gutters cleaned off, the lawn mowed, the beds cleaned out, all of the armadillo traps put up, and the drives and decks blown off before 10 AM on Saturday morning. " HUMMMMMM!!!! So yesterday I got busy and blew off all the decks and drives just before he came home. Last night Sonja asked me did I blow off so BC would be happy and I of course replied yes. He looked at her and said, "The roof and gutters are still not cleaned out."

THE RAGGED EDGE---JUST BEFORE BEING PUSHED OFF THE CLIFF!

UP FOR A GAME?

My current obsession involves a little scrabble game you
play on your I Phone called Words With Friends. I currently
have 3 games going and have had up to 5. SOME people
seem to tire of the challenge---I may-but for now I enjoy
the mental tease. It takes days to play a game and there are
times there are HOURS between moves if I or my opponent
are busy--PART OF THE FUN---ANTICIPATION!

One of my opponents is Camille. She seems to think it is
cheating to keep putting letters together until you find a
word. She had the audacity to ask just what Qi meant!
I told her to LOOK IT UP! We have a LOT of trash talk
going on between us----she is SUCH a SORE LOSER and I
NEVER gloat! I do let her win occasionally--to keep her
on the hook.

It can be a little frustrating to get all vowels or all consonants---but
HEY THAT'S PART OF THE FUN!

WANNA PLAY?

DOUBLE THE FUN!

As I was talking with Camille a couple of nights ago, I made the WONDERFUL discovery that I have two foxes coming to eat supper in my back every night. I immediately signed off--after all HOW MANY times do you watch 2 at play? They seemed almost like brothers and not mates. There was no protective behavior and even a little running the other off from his find. Great fun watching both of them.

Last night only one came up for supper, but interesting behavior. After he ate his fill, he took the remainder to his den-making a couple of trips. One of those trips, he actually walked up the steps to the deck and directly in front of the window -2 feet from me!

We were talking last night about "What makes you happy." I must admit watching the foxes makes me happy. It's the simple things!

DOES HE KNOW WHO HE IS DEALING WITH???

Favorite SIL had #1 daughter call to ask me a question. It seems that while I am up in Erie for Baby Dos he needs to go on an interview overnight. He told # 1 daughter to ask if I could handle Henry, Dos, & her while he was gone. PARDON MY SNORT! ! !

MY TWO TALENTED SONS

AUSTIN HOUSE- SIDE VIEW

FRONT VIEW

BARN DOORS ON CARPORT

LIGHT FIXTURES FOR ALONG DRIVE

LIGHT FIXTURES FOR FRONT OF DRIVE

BOAT STORAGE & CARPORT

SIDE VIEW OF HOUSE

KITCHEN OVERLOOKING DECK

VIEW WHEN YOU COME UP STAIRS

FRONT DECK UPSTAIRS

SIDE DECK WITH ROOF & FANS-VIEW OF CANYON

VERY PROUD OF THE TWO BOYS AND THEIR ACCOMPLISHMENT. THE BEST COMPLIMENT I COULD GIVE IS THAT I COULD MOVE IN TOMORROW!

CHASING RABBITS!

My usual running partner, Larry, has been out of action quite a bit lately. This finds me with a difficult decision-----run alone or TRY to run with the rabbits in our group. Although I am not fearful-ever- of running alone, it's probably not a good idea for several reasons. We are seen better in the dark of the morning when we are in a group, if something were to happen (as it occasionally does) you have someone to help you, and it's just safer to be with a partner. I have run a couple of times alone, but the fast rabbits in the group have taken pity upon me. This AM Sandra ran with me the first 2 1/2 miles----and was going to meet me after I made about another mile loop. There was one of the streets I have to cross completely blocked off-chain link fences--concrete abutments---the whole 9 yards. I ended up entering a maze of sorts that dead ended at a concrete abutment. I was really quite graceful when I climbed that --(SINCE NO ONE WAS WITH ME YOU HAVE TO TAKE MY WORD FOR IT)! I ended up adding a few blocks to get around the barricades. Sandra was patiently looking for me and came upon Mike-our ultra run friend. Mike sprinted into action and caught up with me.

ALL THIS to say----I tried to keep up with Sandra (to no avail-but kept her in sight) the first 2 1/2 miles and the last 1 1/2 mile I am with Speedy Gonzales. I am working hard-FOR ME--and my time is the best it has been in a LONG time. I am not back to where I had gotten to in the Spring---but I am working on it.

Perhaps "Chasing Rabbits" is not such a bad idea----as long as the rabbits are not leading you in circles!

CALL ME FOR ALL YOUR TRAVEL NEEDS!

I have spent a few hours researching and finally booking all the flights surrounding Baby Dos's arrival and future travel needs. After a marathon of booking flights last night, I might be qualified to be your "Friendly Travel Agent"

Here is how it goes. BC & I fly together for the arrival of DOS. BC flies home the day after his arrival and leaves Momma & Baby in hospital and Henry at home with me. I am told that after a C section, Momma will be in the hospital for about a week. PLENTY of time for me to spoil Mr. H!

The entire Jennings family including Dos will be flying with me to LA then after a couple of weeks. Daddy Jennings only needed a one way flight since he will be driving home the car they left here after his rotation in Fort Worth.

I will then be flying back with Momma and Henry and Dos---(CAN'T UNDERSTAND WHY CAMILLE COULDN'T HANDLE THIS ALONE!) and then flying back a day later. Giving myself an entire day to get them settled. WATCH OUT WEGMAN'S---I WILL BE THE CRAZY SOUTHERNER FLYING THROUGH THE AISLES!

So---if you have any complex trip or travel plans you would like help with---JUST GIVE ME A CALL!

SHE'S JUST TEASING US!

This is a picture from Erie last October. Mother Nature is trying to fool us into thinking it is Fall here----DON'T COUNT ON IT!!! My run this AM was GLORIOUS! I was glistening when I finished-but no hard out-soaking sweating going on! SUCH A NICE CHANGE! I also had the fastest time I have had in months---all courtesy of this cooler weather. I was shivering in my tank top when I got out of the car---but as promised---NO COMPLAINING FROM ME!

We drove Pappaw to the Boro yesterday for a special recognition of 57 years as a Deacon---quite the man! It was a sweet time and I found myself a little teary while listening! The Conville siblings have quite the spiritual legacy! Pappaw did comment that the leaves were turning. I didn't have the heart to tell him it was from drought!

I did enjoy watching Mr. Fox eat his supper tonight. He comes every night and looks for his handout. I put some chicken leavings out for him tonight and the usual bread. Interestingly enough, he did not touch the chicken. WHAT IS THAT ABOUT----YOU KNOW FOXES-CHICKEN COOPS----I THOUGHT THEY LOVED CHICKEN!