Tell Me More

  While eating at their favorite Mexican restaurant, Caleb helped himself to a chip. From the look on his face,  he liked it.   He also seemed to like Christmas the next week.

 He's such a happy boy, but he is in an intense learning stage where he is taking everything very seriously.  He studies each thing he sees.  You can just see the thoughts spinning around in his head through his eyes. What an exciting time to just sit and watch him. If I weren't so far away, that is just what I would do.

Christmas Eve Layout

I couldn't leave these pictures 'unscrapbooked'.

Nor could I leave you uninformed of the big power grab in the executive branch.  Our president and his socialist cronies have found ways to work around Congress, thus knocking our government off balance. There are three branches, the executive, the legislative and the judicial.  With his overriding executive orders, the president is usurping the power of Congress, thus putting way to much control at his level.

Before the 'Health' bill was passed, the clause providing pay for doctors to consult with Medicare patients who want voluntary counseling about health-care options in the case of terminal illness was deleted from the bill because we don't want it. Large numbers of the population raised up in alarm. The bill could not have passed with that provision in it.

 But our president, who installed Dr. Donald M Berwich by sidestepping the Senate ( which would not sanction his appointment),  has made him administrator of the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services.  This man  advocates health care rationing outright and he loves the British National Health Service, which has 'death panels'.  So by executive action, we will now be provided that 'service'.


  Naturally doctors have done  that counseling  without federal interference.  But now, the ruling class in Washington will have some say as to whether or not you are worth the treatment.  Should this not be solely up to the doctor and the patient?  This leaves the door open for the 'death panels' Sarah Palin warned us about.

Now you know.  Keep after Congress to take back the power the Constitution gave them.

Stocking Unstuffer

Caleb must have been thinking how great it was that Jesus came to free us from our sins, because he was so very serious on Christmas morning.  It's almost as if he thought he was in school to learn about this thing called Christmas and he would be tested.  He didn't miss anything, except for a few packages.  He was deliberate with each one.

Sorry I'm not up to par on the world situation this week.  Christmas has been so very enjoyable, but It has taken a lot of my energy and I'm very tired already tonight.  I'm also having a slight allergic reaction to something I ate for dinner tonight. Although it was not hot, it 'scalded' the roof of my mouth. Two Benadryl   haven't worked, unless it is just making me sleepy and I'll be fine in the morning.

Read up on the Death Panels that were taken out of the "Health" Bill in order to get it passed. I'll tell you more tomorrow... and it is not good.

Supplement Your Social Security

I've found the needed avenue to supplement our social security in a creative way and I'm now looking for a group of adventurous grandmothers who are interested in competition.

While our daughter, April, was  here for Christmas, she introduced me to a new sport...dueling. It is low cost because the swords are cardboard tubes.  They can be purchased at Walmart and come with a wrapping paper bonus.  If you wish to be a Dueling Grandma, and haul in Big Bucks, call this number now and  become an instant champion like me.   1-800- UBe-tcha

Be the first in your neighborhood on a dueling team. Be the first in your state to win the National Grandmother's Dueling Tournament. Call now. That's 1-800-Ube-tcha.

Is Christmas Over?

It just isn't right.  From Thanksgiving on, time past while I gasped.  All of a sudden it was Christmas. Yes, we were ready, but just barely.  There was not a moment to spare.  The layout shows Christmas morning. We were able to get pictures of the tree and table before our 'children' arrived.

And just look how relaxed the cat is here on the chair. She managed to stay out of the fray. Later when everyone was moving about she lost herself in the basement out of the hubbub. When all had quieted down a bit, she reappeared...just in time for her dinner and bed time.

Okay, so today is the day after and I'm not ready to give it up yet.  We decorate and then in a few minutes, it's time to take it all down.  We welcomed our family and then said goodbye.  But it isn't over!  Not for me. We'll keep ours a while.  I need some time to enjoy the lights, stars, angels. And my china just makes me happy.  Surely I should be able to look at these birds all winter.

Can you remember when you were a child and Santa took forever to get here?   What has  happened to time?   I think I know why we changed to digital... all the hands spun off the clocks some time ago.

Family Christmas

Although we didn't have all the family together, we did have two branches represented.  April was here with her family, Tim (B) and Lauren,.  And Tim, our son's children, Brandon and Brittanie made it as well.

It's a joy to see cousins sharing time together.  We all missed Leah, who is in the same age bracket.   She is very at home in Florida where she grew up and is now a senior at  Flagler College.  But at the present, she is  visiting her family home which has been in  North Carolina since June.

Even though we were not all together in fact,  Face time and Skype  got us together online.  It is great being able to see our  younger grand children playing with Christmas toys and smiling big thank yous.

You'll be seeing some pictures of  more of our family  branches (in Nashville and Colorado) celebrating the season.

I hope your Christmas Day was pleasure filled  and that you'll have  joyful memories in your hearts throughout the years.

It's a Wonderful Life

What do young feeling oldsters do on Christmas Eve?   Well, if they've been cooking all day, it makes sense that they want to get out of the kitchen, so here they are. Everything will be festive tomorrow, so tonight is just a casual meal.

We've left the choice up to our friends and since Phyllis hasn't been in the Orient for over a week now, she chose Thai food.  Good choice, it you ask my opinion.  The food is terrific and the portions are 'take home a box' large.  Plenty leftovers...just what we need.  When will we eat them???

After dinner,  Phyllis and Ron had us follow them to their house...the long way, so that we could see a house lit up for the ultimate Christmas.   I have pictures of that as well.

Then we watched the movie (believe it or not I hadn't seen)  "It's a Wonderful Life". And of course we ate Christmas cookies.  It is a wonderful life.

Merry Christmas

Things are very busy around here; but I want  to pause long enough to wish you all a very merry Christmas.  Enjoy your family and friends, and remember your savior's perfect gift to you.

My Third Birthday

My layout tonight was made with pictures of both my mother and myself on my third birthday in 1946.

Once in a while, when I have no other pictures, I use these old ones.  I would like to make a family history; but at this rate, it will take me until I am 205.  Don't think I'll make it.

My thoughts tonight are on the Bible verse,"You were bought at a price; do not become slaves of men."  I Cor 7:23

There is a lot being said right now about International Law.  Too many in this nation are wanting to give up our sovereignty, that freedom bought  by God ...our inalienable rights.  Some of them hold offices in Washington. They wish us to bow to International Law, a code of laws made by man.   Our system with it's freedom is superior to those laws and should never be left to follow after the dictates of men, who do not have the wisdom of God, but wish to rule over us.

Beware  this  movement of progressives who are working  around our Constitution to make us subject to a One World Government.

As Close as We Get to the North Pole

Last night we went to Peninsula  to a quaint old area near  the ski resort. I'll have to go back in the daylight (I understand it is most beautiful at dawn or dusk) to take pictures.)  It was a lovely place to have   a party.  Robin wore the outfit she wears on the Polar Express.  It had an ornate Santa with a glittery beard.  What fun! 


 It was  a great get together for our life group.  The men and women separated for a time as usual.  Then we all gathered in the sitting room for Jane's presentation of her new rendition of the 12 Days of Christmas.  It was quite entertaining. We all joyfully sang all the verses.


Please pray that the government keeps its hands off the internet unless it is a true emergency,  which means our country is in danger of attack from our enemy.  Pray they don't interfere with the freedoms of our citizens.  This law, that just passed, can be dangerous in the wrong hands!

Hair Styles

Styles come and go.  I remember when the Beatles were popular. Older people were all alarmed by their long hair, which was short compared to the newest fad.

I am thankful for the short hair styles that were in while I was in high school.  The crew cut was the most popular (at least at our high school) with a few boys wearing duck tails which were longer, but slicked  back with some type of goo.  We called them 'hoods'.  It was not a compliment.

 I am also thankful that my boys had shorter haircuts.  But the longer hair has made it back.  Our grandsons Mason and Aussie, are sporting long shaggy hair with long bangs.  Of course, being a grandmother, I think they are cute when it is clean and combed...but that preference for short and neat is still in me.

Their mom, Chelle just had her hair cut as well.  It has grown a lot in the last year. Now they are ready for all their Christmas photos.

One thing I lament going out of style is  a reverence for the Constitution.   It looks like it may be coming back to the forefront, though with the last election showing that the majority is no longer snowed by the liberal press and TV.

This weekend the Dream Act was defeated in the Senate.  Would you believe that if it  had passed, illegals would have been given free dental and mental health care.  You realize that  American citizens don't even get those freebies.  But of course we would have been the ones paying for them with our taxes.

What do you suppose would cause anyone to even think about doing such a thing?  It sounds more like a nightmare to me.  Think about it.

Chinese Honor Roll

We are proud of our grandson, Aussie.  He made the honor roll in Chinese school once again.

I am very happy he is interested in learning the language and I wish him continued accomplishment.

I pray as well that he  can be proud of his own country. I pray that this country will once again be a God fearing nation that is strong and yet not aggressive, one which  provides freedom for all its citizens.

"Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord."  Psalm 33:12

In the words of  Ronald Reagan,  "America needs God more than God need America.  If we ever forget that we are One Nation Under God, then we will be a Nation gone under."

Snow in Tennessee

It isn't every day that ones sees snow in Tennessee.  This is real snow.  Not a lot, but snow just the same.
When you don't see the white stuff often, it is fun to shovel...rake it.  The triplets all saw the snow that day, but Ashly experienced it.  Doesn't she look like she knows how to keep warm?   I'd say she is really cute. But then I'm the gramma.  To me she is always cute.

May God be with you this last week of Christmas prep.  And may He watch over those who are traveling.

Grateful

At the time I worked on this layout, I was bemoaning the fact that I no longer had a dog.  I had grown up with one and had lived with one in the house most of my life.  Now, when I am older and just need to sit down once in a while and take it easy, I would love to have a little dog jump up in my lap and cuddle.  However, that isn't to be, I suppose.  I'll probably not have one for the rest of my life.  

But life must go on and I must find reasons to be grateful rather than suffering.  So I choose to love my cat.  She doesn't care a lot about me except at dinner time.  However,  God created her. She is pretty. She lives in my house. She is clean, obedient and she allows me to stroke her fur now and then.  I went out and bought her some Christmas presents to show my love.  Now I can hardly wait until Christmas to give them to her.

Today, I have even more for which to be grateful.  The Omnibus (huge tax  bill) was defeated in Congress. We can thank the Tea Party for helping us convince them that we are TIRED of so much spending, when what we need is a climate where business can flourish and create new jobs...and that means lower taxes.

Bird Watcher Alert

These pictures were taken from my triple paned window on November 20th of this year. Please double click and get a good look at them.

It is so easy to get good photos of all the birds since I sit here at the computer much of the day with my camera by my side. The birds can not see me through the window, so they are not scared away by my lifting that camera to shoot. Sometimes they stare right into the window which mirrors their images.

I've been trying to identify these since November, but can not find anything in my Audubon Society Field Guide that looks like them. I've searched images on line and have come up with nothing. My curiosity is aroused. Can anyone help?

Please leave a comment if you have any idea.  I have new rules for comments and it shouldn't be difficult.

Glenn Beck in Ohio

To make sure nothing gets in the way of my getting this blogged today, I've started early by putting the layouts online now. I'll have to tell you more about it later.

It is now, 10:30.

We were able to get to Borders a about 11;00. Ron went quickly to the coffee shop while I grabbed a place in line. Now, you could never meet nicer people that those in line. It was easy to strike up conversation. We were all on the same track. A young high school freshman was in line two places ahead of me. We were interested in his history. He now lives in Mexico, but attends school here. He is Anglo Saxon, but speaks fluent Spanish as well as his native English.

He was the boy anyone would be proud to have as a son. After we were there a while... the line still not moving, a friend of his came up to us. He didn't miss a beat, but told him he would join him at the back of the line... foreign to the way most kids would do these days (and many adults) who would crowd several into the line without apology.

One lady impressed me with her knowledge. She was a retired teacher and had checked out Fox News when someone she knew had been telling her how bad it was. She decided to see it for herself. She loves it.

It has been my experience that those who bash Fox, Glenn Beck, and Rush Limbaugh the most have never ever seen them. They are just parroting what they've heard. But then those people do us a service by calling attention to Fox. And I wish to thank them.

Finally Glenn arrived , I think it was about 15 minutes late. He had a strict schedule and was due in Columbus at 4:00. He had autographed bookplates to give to those whose books he didn't get signed during his stint at Borders. But understandably, he wanted to sign for all.

By the time he got there, the store was full of people waiting in a long line that wrapped through every aisle in the sore. So his workers were handing out instructions about having the books open to the right page so that everything would move quickly. Everyone would get his name and a hand shake and move right along. Imagine my surprise when I shook his hand and said, " I'm really happy to meet you", and he looked me in the eye and said, I want to give you a hug...and he did... a sincere hug, like he knew me. Ron was there with the camera and took several pictures. But it really wasn't long and his 'handlers' were hustling me along. There were many more books to be signed.

He is a very kind and loving man. His eyes tell it all.

I had bought the book earlier and have been reading just a chapter a day. My reading has slowed with age and the book is meaty. It is very well written and well documented. I certainly recommend "Broke" to all who value freedom.

Some Like it Hot, Some Like it Cold

Caleb likes to eat black bean soup at Panera's. But he wants it cold.

Guess I'll have to try it if Caleb likes it. However, I'll want mine hot, especially now that it is cold outside.

Of course while I'm complaining about 13 degrees, our sweet daughter, who just moved from Florida to North Carolina in June, has a temperature as I write this of 1.4 degrees. Makes my bones chill just hearing it.

Some like it hot, some like it cold. I have friends in both camps. Some are in misery here just waiting to go south after Christmas and others who are cherishing every snowflake that falls.

And there are some of us who don't like either extreme. We are the princesses...or would like to be. My range of comfortable temperatures is narrow.

Just like the differences in comfort with weather, there are differences in political opinion.

Our constitution supports my beliefs; so I am quite comfortable here in the United States as long as we adhere to that document. But there are others who, for some reason, do not appreciate the freedom it gives us. They would rather have big government rule (Possibly because they expect to be on the ruling end of the spectrum). There are many places in the world where they would feel more comfortable. Why don't they pick up and go there as people who like heat go south? Beats me. They would rather force the rest of us to live in their constricted world, a world with one government where choice is not an option.

Oh, and I suppose we could carry this analogy a bit farther. There are some princesses, who like to stand right in the middle of the road. They don't want to go to either extreme, they might say. They are a danger to us, for the one worlders will run right over them on their way to the top of the heap. All of us little people will just get trampled underfoot if and when democracy fails...princesses and all.

It may sometimes seem as if I'm a 'glass half empty type of person', but truly I'm not. I'm quite comfortable where I am, and when I've ranted about ignorance, go on about my merry way.

Happy Christmas shopping to you. Hope you are finding some good deals and have purchased or made things that will make someone happy.

Remember the poor. The Bible says they will always be with us. See if you can make a difference.

Colorado Sunshine

Mark Twain said, "If you don't like the weather, wait a minute". Even though one can hear that spoken in many areas, Colorado may be the best example. This was taken Friday.

The forecast the day before :" Denver forecast: Sunny tomorrow, chance of snow Saturday

12/09/2010 03:53 PM MST - Gusty winds today and mild temperatures tomorrow will be the prelude to an approaching storm which will give Denver a chance of snow Friday night into Saturday. "

We've had our own 'warm' spell today. Yesterday we had about 4 inches of accumulated snow; but near freezing rain started last night and it rained, melting that snow until about 11:00 AM today, when it turned to snow. We have an all new blanket now. We are also on a travel warning. Supposedly expecting a blizzard.

The grocery store had been raided by the time we went after lunch. The bread aisle was hit the hardest. I suspect people will be eating a lot of sandwiches the next couple of days.

All this seems so mild compared to the blizzard we lived through in Boston in '76. Now THAT WAS A BLIZZARD!

I would like to add a photo taken from our daughter's house in Tennessee today and tell the story about how their little snow has crippled her town. and stripped their grocery shelves.

One would think I would know how to work this blog by now, but that one would be very wrong. I want to put the image here, but when I try it goes above the layout of Caleb. That irks me and in order to shield you from my complaining, I'm checking out for the night.

I'm hoping that wherever you are, you will be safe and sound and be able to enjoy whatever it is God has in store for you.

Ballet Recital 2010

Ashley and Aussie are in their third year of ballet, Mason his second. Mason felt left out and he decided he enjoyed being with the others. So here they are in their Christmas Recital 2010.

Ashley is on your right, behind Aussie. Mason is on your left.

I was quite surprised by Ashley's performance. It was quite good. It seems that she is catching on. Her poise and grace are beautiful. I don't want to judge, but I think the boys are there mostly to just have a good time.

I hope that all of you are into Christmas traditions by now...more than just shopping. I pray the meaning of the season is in your heart as you go from day to day in preparations for a big celebration. I like the expression I've heard this last decade, Jesus is the Reason for the Season.

East Meets West

I've had a lot of fun making this layout. The outfits here would make a person wonder. It is hard to see the connection of this Chinese dressed Aussie with his friend Kadence, clothed in a beautiful Colonial dress. Relax. There is no connection there. Aussie had been in a program with his Chinese class earlier in the day and didn't see the need to change before going with his family to the Mansker's Yuletide Fest. As different as they were, their colors matched well and these long time friends are quite a cute couple .

I'm really not one to wish away the month of December...and I haven't even designed my cards yet. Wondering now if I'll get it done or not. I don't want to hurry time. BUT, I am anxious for the new congressmen and women to start work in January. We need to keep praying for them. Pray that they will stay on target and not get involved in the games that are played in order to stuff unrelated things into every bill that comes along. Keep strong. Pray for Congress to make good decisions that will be to the betterment of this nation.

The Lion Roars

And the lion roars. What a big roar you have there, Caleb. I think I can see your tonsils.

In the jungle, the mighty jungle the lion roars. And in the White House, the mighty White House another lyin roars. But this one roars doublespeak.

According to Wikipedia: Doublespeak is language that deliberately disguises, distorts, or reverses the meaning of words. Doublespeak may take the form of euphemisms (e.g., "downsizing" for layoffs), making the truth less unpleasant, without denying its nature. It may also be deployed as intentional ambiguity, or reversal of meaning (for example, naming a state of war "peace"). In such cases, doublespeak disguises the nature of the truth, producing a communication bypass.

The book 1984 chills me even more now than it did when I read it in high school. I am seeing it come to life right before my eyes. If you haven't read it, you should. In it, history was constantly rewritten to fool the younger people who didn't live through it. The computer makes it so much easier now than when that book was written in 1949. I remember first reading about doublespeak in 1984. Today it is used widely, especially by those who aim to destroy our republic.

In our morning paper, a headline reads, "President: Recession is Possible"

Now, would someone please tell this man we are in a recession now? Obviously neither he nor his wife have been affected by it.But we have been since he began his full time job of 'stimulating' the economy in every way but one which would actually accomplish that purpose. His 'Stimulus' bills would be big joke, if they didn't do such serious harm. According to him, he has saved lots of jobs, but we can't find any of them beyond more government employees who sap our economy instead of producing goods and services which account for increased GDP.

Our recession is growing deeper all the time and he has the gall to tell us it is possible we could go into a recession if we don't pass the 'big tax cut' bill he is pushing. You can read 'big tax cut bill' as a bill to keep taxes for one group of people what they have been since George W. Bush lowered the tax during his presidency. There is NO TAX CUT involved. However, he knows that is what we need... a true tax cut, so he uses doublespeak to fool the people. The very sad thing is, he does fool many. But fewer and fewer are convinced by what comes from that teleprompter.

I pray that this bill does not pass and that the Republicans will deliver a real tax cut for all workers when they take their seats in Congress come January 2011.

Our Little Drummer Boy

Christmas is getter closer as I type. I'm not ready. By this time, I should have sent out cards and almost finished my shopping. My decorating should be completed. It has not come to pass. I am not a patient person, especially with myself, so it is not setting well. I have tomorrow set aside for some serious planning and organizing chores. Surely it will all fall into place if the Lord wills it.

I'd rather be doing layouts, especially ones of grandchildren. This is one of those I did today... Our Little Drummer Boy. Caleb, like any other little one, is in love with drumming. He'll pound on anything. And, as any mother knows, one of the main purposes of pots and pans is to make music for little ears.

I have to brag a bit on Caleb. I asked his dad how he was doing with the Christmas tree. I remember what a draw that was for my babies and other pets. John said that Caleb had reached for something on the tree once and since he had told him 'no' , he had not bothered it at all. He will sit and look at it, but he doesn't touch. I love to hear that. There is nothing harder or more important than training a hard willed child. It takes a stern voice and persistence. And oh how they will try to wear you down. But it is not to their benefit to let them get away with it. We all have to learn to react appropriately to authority. So many are not these days. It is to their own detriment as well as the parent's...and eventually society at large.

How Does It Smell?

While we were taking our tour of Winterthur in Delaware, I became intensely aware of a wonderful fragrance in the air. I wasn't sure what it was, but I knew that I really liked it.

I asked the tour guide if they sold it there in the gift shop. She laughed. What I was smelling was actually cut flowers from green houses on the property. The rooms were full of them. I had not expected so many fresh flowers in November and hadn't even thought about them being real. The fragrance of so many together was divine. It wasn't long until I spotted my favorite blooms of the peony near a window.

Some things smell good and others stink. Tonight I'd like to inform you, if you haven't yet heard, that Obama , even though he is against offshore drilling for our country, signed an executive order to loan two billion of taxpayer money (which we don't have since we are broke) to a Brazilian oil company to drill for oil off the coast of Brazil. China has a contract to purchase all the oil.

Not only that, but the man who donated the most money to the president's campaign is the one who owns the biggest share of the company involved. There are many flags here. Obama doesn't believe we should drill offshore, but others can. He did this by way of executive order. He knows it wouldn't make it through Congress. He is paying back George Soros, his biggest supporter. We will not profit one bit by it. Our gas prices continue to rise. We have not heard about it in the mainstream media.

It did make the Wall Street Journal. Check it out to make sure I have my facts right.

http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052970203863204574346610120524166.html

I continue to pray for our deliverance.

She Had a Birthday

Our youngest daughter just added to the first number of her age. It can be hard on a woman;but Chelle's triplets keep her young and happy. The date was November 11 and I finally got this layout made.

Where does the time go? It was just June a month ago... or was it April? I can't keep up with the clock, let along the calendar. It is nearly Christmas and things are not getting done. At least nothing is finished, but the tree. If I don't get presents bought soon, they'll not make it to their destinations on time.

There needs to be a prayer especially for seniors for help with this malady. The 'Now I lay me down to sleeps' come to quickly in the day, even when you are a night owl like I am.

I do have time to be concerned about the state of the nation. It seems to me that if we would concentrate on getting the traitors out of our government, there wouldn't be so much worry about the Wiki or any other kind of leaks.

Christ's Home Office

The whole story is on the layout, but I'll repeat it. On Friday after Thanksgiving, we decided to leave the next day so that we could attend 'our own' church on Sunday morning. Besides, as Ron says, we didn't want to stay too long because company is like fish. After three days, it stinks.

So at about 9:30 we headed west. I think from where we were in Oxford, we had to travel the whole Pennsylvania Dutch country lengthwise. It is a wonderfully beautiful trip. The farms with their large barns and silos are quite pleasing to my eyes. We passed through very small towns once in a while. At one point a sign caught my attention. It said simply, Christ's Home Office and had an arrow pointing toward a large old historic building back from the road.

I was really curious. And then I noticed we were in Paradise. Yes, that was the name of the town. I really had never thought of Jesus having an office on earth. But if he were to have one, it would be in Paradise.

Believe it. We passed right through Paradise. Didn't stop. Didn't collect our prize. We just moved on across the farmland and into the mountains and through four tunnels. Finally after 6 and a half hours we were home to our own little paradise on earth, Portage Lakes.

And from now on, I can say I've been to Paradise and seen Christ's home office and I look forward to going again some day... to an eternal Paradise where everything is perfect and I'll never want to leave and will never have to part company with God and all our beloved friends and family.

April and Tim

I love these pictures of our daughter and son-in-law. They've hosted a wonderful Thanksgiving meal and can still smile. They always make us feel so comfortable there and we look forward to our trips out east to see them. It's a beautiful area, rife with history and they find interesting places to visit with us.

Another thing that delights me about this layout is the crumpled and torn paper I got from www.scrapgirls.com. It is in the Gleeful Collection by Amanda McGee. It makes me happy just to look at it.

I need to be pleased by the little things in life, because the big ones are driving me crazy right now. I just can not believe that people with brains are doing the things they are doing while claiming to be trying to help the economy. One can not spend oneself out of debt and neither can a government.

Messy

Isn't this the cutest mess you ever saw? Now, I know why grandmothers spoil these little ones. They are just so darling. Boy, do I wish there were not so many states between us. I'd love to see him at Christmas.

I like the way it was in the old days. (Here I go with the good old days the oldsters have alluded to forever.) Back then, which was even before my time , families stayed close by and worked together. Grandmothers were a big help in caring for the children. There were big families who stuck together and looked out for one another. It is sad to know that Christmas is coming and our family is in 7 different states. I am not likely to see more than three of my grandkids, if that many...and only one of the kids. Is that a license to be blue?

I don't feel like a political discourse tonight. However, we did see a bumper sticker tonight that caused us to laugh. "Irritate a liberal. Work hard and be happy."

Samuel

One of the biggest joys of our Thanksgiving this year was having Samuel there with us. You can tell that he was quite the star of the day. We also enjoyed having him along the next day when we toured Winterthur. He was a trooper. What a precious baby Jerod and Hope have. We are proud to have him in the family.

On a completely different track, I have an opinion I just can't keep to myself.

If your ancestor committed a murder and got away with it, can they send you to jail for the evil that ancestor did? NO.

But...'your' liberal government has just ruled that since your ancestors, or their neighbors, or anyone else in the country in which you now live had a slave or took land from an Indian by force... you, your fellow citizens and your children have to reimburse the heirs of the people wronged hundreds of years ago. Yes, that is correct. American Indians (from whom I am descended) and black farmers are to receive a total of $4.6 billion in disputes. That is our money!

Oh, and that is not all! Our president has said he would 'continue working to resolve other lingering complaints of historic discrimination, including from women and Hispanic farmers.'

Akron Beacon Journal: http://www.ohio.com/news/nation/111100944.html

Winterthur

Although they don't live in Lancaster, April and Tim are next door in Chester county and have Amish neighbors. While we were there for Thanksgiving, we feasted on not one, but two turkeys. One was raised on the Amish farm down the street from them. Horses and buggies traverse the roads nearby. It's quite a beautiful area and there are lots of interesting and wonderful things t0 see in that area of the state. However, this trip we decided to go a few miles over to Delaware. We were anxious to see Winterthur, even though Ron was not up to walking through the gardens on a cold day. The house was filled with exquisite antique furniture. Our visit was lovely. But, once I saw the pictures, I was not really happy that we had worn our 'uniforms'. These backdrops called for much more formal dress.

Tomorrow evening, the movie Broke by Glenn Beck will be playing at local theaters throughout the states. I hope you get a chance to attend. It will be an educational experience.

Check it out here: http://www.glennbeck.com/content/events/?ibid=broke

Opinionated

Am happy to see a market developing for opinions. I have plenty of them.

By the way, in case you hadn't guessed: the opinions here stated are my own and do not necessarily reflect those of the subjects in my layouts.

In case you've wondered why I missed yesterday. My publishing hit a big snag. I worked for hours to get one of my pages to upload to the publisher. Finally, my husband realized the problem was a simple period. I had inadvertently put it into the jpg title. Thank God for Ron. I would have NEVER found that.

The book, my 17th, is now in the works at My Publisher. I can hardly wait to have it in my hands.

Whether you are here for my opinions or in spite of them... I love you all.

Desperation

This is a delightful picture of Ashley. I love it, but it is only on tonight because I was desperate to find a layout that I had not yet published and get it on the blog before my midnight deadline.

I have nothing to say, except this has not been an easy day. I am publishing my 17th book right now. It must be done by Tuesday and I've hit a lot of snags. It should be finished ahead of schedule, but time got away from me tonight. Have a productive Monday. God bless you all.

Thankful

Most of all, I thank my God that I have the opportunity to worship Him. He gave me so very much...six children and a wonderful husband. Who could want more? Then He heaped up the blessings and made me a grandmother. I am thankful for our grandchildren.

I thank God for this season. I am thankful that even though we couldn't get all the family together for a feast, we were able to spend our Thanksgiving day (and more) with our beautiful, kind and gracious middle daughter and her husband, whom we love as well. We drove through Amish country in Pennsylvania to their lovely, warm home. We don't get to visit any of the kids often enough with the way we are all scattered and it had been quite a while since we had seen her. We did miss our granddaughter, Lauren who remained in Alabama at school. But we look forward to seeing her on Christmas Day.

We were able to talk to all but Tim. So we're hoping to speak with him soon.

As we traveled past many well kept barns while in and around Lancaster, PA this weekend, I was reminded of the day trip we took in October to the Amish area of Ohio. Since we haven't been home long enough to download my new pictures to the computer, I've brought out a layout I made of that fall visit to their farming community.

I admire the way those plain people live. I can't say that I have always felt like that, but recently I've been leaning toward simplicity. It is something I now crave. However, I don't want to give up the computer or photos of my family.

Keep in touch. I'll be bringing layouts about our recent trip soon.

Be Thankful

Going back a few weeks to John and Beth's long weekend vacation to Crested Butte. This is a really good picture of them with the moose...Oh, I like all these pictures. Would like to see the place myself sometime. Perhaps if they remain in Colorado long, we'll get to do that. In the meantime, we'll just enjoy it through their pictures.

I've started cooking already. Did well until I missed hearing the timer and burnt my pie...charred my pie. The house reeks. Don't know why I didn't smell it before I did. I'll start over again with that tomorrow.

Looks like we'll have a busy few days. Don't know whether or not I'll be here on the blog. If not, be assured that it won't be long... at least it won't seem long to me. We never get enough time with family.

At least none of us will be flying. Thank goodness. I'm sure hoping and praying they rescind this TSA order before long, so that we won't have to choose between a dose of radiation and being violated.

On a more pleasant thought. I'm thankful for so very much and I'm sure you are as well. It's a good idea just to make a mental list of your blessings, remembering that having enough to eat is a blessing that many in the world do not have. Praise God and have a very thankful holiday.

90 Years Old

Aunt Mary turned 90 on Saturday the 20th. When I saw the invitation said to drop in between 12:00 and 8:00, I wondered how Aunt Mary would last through that time. But I should not have feared. I think she had more energy and enthusiasm than anyone else there. What a sociable sweetheart she is. And sharp as well. She is such a joy to others.

Wanting to be just like Aunt Mary (Ron's aunt) when I grow up, I asked her a few questions.

I asked her secret to longevity, about her youthful skin and her philosophy of life. Her answers are on the layout.

I now need to print her a copy and then we are going to lunch. I am thrilled. It will be a special lunch since we hadn't been out together for about a year.

She is a wise lady. I need to pay more attention. It really struck me when she said "Live for today. Hope for tomorrow." I haven't had much hope recently, but I must do that. God is in control.

Family Resemblance

I've been told Aussie looks like me. I am flattered, but I bet he wouldn't want to think he looks like a girl, especially an old one. But surely it is okay for me to look like him.

He definitely has my hair. If like the rest of us, my cousins and I, his hair will keep its color or get darker until he is way too old to care. I am fair like him, except for my myriad freckles. Face shape is similar. But his eyes are gorgeous. I guess similarity, like beauty, is in the eye of the beholder.

I've been looking for similarity in the new GM (Government Motors) and the old GM (General Motors). There isn't much. My parents used to buy nothing but GM. My first car was a Pontiac. They were good cars. However with the EPA, etc breathing down their backs, and foreign competition growing strong, GM just didn't measure up anymore. Instead of letting the company go bankrupt, like any normal entity would do, our overly powerful government decided to change from free enterprise to socialized manufacturing. Of course government has never done anything well, not even the post office, but they dumped zillions of dollars (yours, mine, and our grandchildren's ) into a failing company. Well anyone besides the straw man can see that we've lost our money and continue to lose more and more to this endeavor.

Instead of buying GM, we have bought a lemon!

Butterflies in the Belfry

How many women will on the spur of the moment meet for a photo shoot in the middle of a very busy day on a very busy week? Well, here you go. We've found 6! You notice there are seven here. Yes, one who really desired to do it, but just couldn't travel over 800 miles for it, sent her picture to be dubbed into the works.

You might call us batty, but we prefer butterflies!

A Longing to Fly

While we were in Mountainair, Ron was anxious to see the airstrip. I could tell by his eyes that he is longing to fly again. It has been almost ten years since he gave up his plane. We sold it a few months before 9/11. We had gotten a lot of good years out of it, but it was an expense we didn't want any longer. Ron seemed fine with it for a while, but now and then, he wishes he had his wings.

Of course now, it would be much more pleasant to fly your own plane and not have to put up with the groping long arm of the government, TSA.

Clap for Yourself. You Deserve It

I did it. Didn't think for a while that I'd make it. Ron has a project going on my laptop and for a while he had both it and this one in use. So I worked logic puzzles while anxiously waiting to get back on my machine.

So now, you get to see our special little fellow clapping for himself and know I'm applauding myself because I was able to get this done in a short time in order to beat my 12:00 midnight deadline.

You also got a bonus layout tonight. don't miss the one of Caleb and his Mommy.

Mommy and Caleb

Here's our happy boy again. I can't imagine anything making him more happy, unless it would be living closer to his gramma and grampa. Today I downloaded a picture of him from his mother's facebook page. I can hardly wait to do a layout, even though his hands are just a blur. Now I know why they make cameras with fast lenses that can stop motion. He is a regular motion machine. Today's picture captures his first all by himself clapping. I hope to finish it and get it on here by 12:00 midnight EST. We'll see. My cat is demanding attention right now. I'd better take care of her or I'll be listening to her nag me for the rest of the night.

Mt Mitchell

What a blessing to look out over all the trees and see more beautiful mountains in the distance. Mountainair certainly is a lovely place to live. I'm glad it is within a days drive. Three of our children live at least twice as far away from their childhood home here in Ohio. It is so much easier to drive than to have to fly...especially now that they have imposed a body search that invades a person's privacy in such an ungodly way. It will be especially hard for a person like me who has had modesty drilled into her since early childhood.

And I wonder just how valuable it will be in actually catching those who would do us harm. In my opinion ( and that is why I'm here right now) it is just a cover for being unwilling to question those who might actually hold our country in contempt and wish our demise. They are generally quite easy to pick out in a crowd at the airport in most instances. And there are other tell tale signs that any government worth its salt would know.

Okay , let's say this disgusting scan/search does stop one who might be smuggling a bomb in his/her underwear/bra. There have been Muslims (not on airplanes yet) who stick explosives where the sun doesn't shine (a euphemism) . As Ann Coulter stated, that search is a job no American wants.

Sweet Day Out

Ron and I joined some of our friends on a day trip down to Amish country where we ate lunch in an Amish home. This was on October 1 and if you follow the blog very closely, you've seen another layout from that day's trip. It was the one of the group at P. Graham Dunn. I'm also working on another one from there.

On the way down, we stopped at the Smucker's store in Orrville. It is so easy to purchase too much when you have the chance to taste everything before you buy. It is so tempting. We picked up some unusual spreads that I hadn't seen before in our grocery. They were very tasty.

I suppose we can order next time online; but it may be more fun to just get together a group of friends and run down to Orrville. There is always plenty to see down that way.

With our administration's planned devaluation of our money, I wish I lived in Amish country where they provide for their own needs without counting on the outside world. I have verbalized this to my husband, and was told I'd not make it more than a week because they work so hard. I hate to think I couldn't keep up with them; but he is probably right. We have become so spoiled by good times, that it would be very difficult to live without our modern day conveniences, many of which depend on electricity. But if I didn't have electricity, be it because I couldn't afford it or because it was rationed, I would rather live among people who knew how to get along without it than where I do now.

Please God, save our Christian nation from it's foes.

Nurture Conservatism

The entire message today is on the layout itself. Double click it to enlarge. God bless you all.

In Hind Sight

Hey Kim, do you remember this? You don't? Well I don't either, but I thought it made an interesting layout.

A Weekend Vacation.

When you are starting a company and holding down a full time job as well, you really need a break. When you have a baby, a house to keep and have to go to work 5 days a week, you need a break. So I'm glad to show you two layouts tonight: John and Caleb & Beth and Caleb. They had the gift of a weekend trip to Crested Butte, Colorado and I got pictures. We all win.