Christmas

A sweet day of family & good food & nice gifts:) A day to relax after the hustle & bustle of the season:)

Tonight weather forecasters are predicting a possible 3-6 inches of snow! Could we end the night with a white Christmas? It would be the first measurable snowfall on Christmas since 1947!

I must say I'd love to spend tomorrow packing for our trip to Pa. rather than going to work--but time will tell.

Blessings to all this new year of 2011. May it be one of delight, compassion, deep peace within, & sweet joy in each new day, for every day is a gift:)

Top photo: a dusting of snow a few weeks ago

Bottom photo: the Mc girls, Kelley, Skye, & Brenda opening gifts this morning:)

December Wish List

1. Will we get out Christmas letters/cards this year--stamps are bought, draft is written, but...I'm writing this blog instead:)?

2. Will I get down the big tree?

3. Will I get Swedish Tea Rings made?

4. Will my cold/cough go away??

5. Will we have another snow dusting before Christmas? It's been cold enough lately:)

6. Will Skye be able to get home this week after the blizzard forecast for Boone the 13th/14th?

7. Will I figure out what to get Keith for his birthday/Christmas?

8. Will we have bad weather traveling to/from Pa. the week after Christmas?

9. Will I find joy in my job this Christmas season (need an attitude adjustment some days:))?

10. Will calmness & peace be foremost in my life this season?

11. Will I find time to get a haircut & a pedicure--sort of essential for a happier me?

12. Will I get Wyatt to the groomers for a bath?

13. Will I be able to meet with my care receiver before Christmas?

14. Need to finish shopping:)

15. Have our girls' birthday celebration for Lorraine Dec. 14th at Brigg's:)

16. Plan to spend Dec. 21st shopping with Lisa & Kathy:)

17. Have a Small Group lunch Dec. 18th at Biaggi's:)

18. Have a couples' birthday celebration for Keith & Lorraine Dec. 17th:)

19. Where will we celebrate Keith's birthday lunch with the family Dec. 19th?

20. Plan to go see Tron at the IMAX Dec. 18th with Lindsay, Cameron, Seth, Skye:)

21. What will I serve for Christmas morning brunch?

22. Will I give generously to those who need my help/my time/my smile?

23. Will I remember countless times daily to be thankful & grateful for the lavish love of the Father who pours out His love & blessings upon me continually!:)

I give this all to Him.

Welcome December 2010

"Christmas is a time of little time.

How we get there is a mystery.
Racing madly mall-to-mall, we climb
Into fields of sunlit harmony.
Shopping, cooking, clearing walks and yards,
Trimming house and tree while working, too;
Making phone calls, wrapping, writing cards,
As all worn out we do what we must do
So that this day of joy might joy renew."
- Nicholas Gordon

Thanksgiving Fair

Life tends to be unfair. Now, I don't know who came up with the notion that life should be fair (I'm sure it's an American idea), but most of us buy into it, hook, line, & sinker.

Well--surprise, it isn't!

I know you're shocked.

I am always shocked when I beat my head against the unfairness "wall". Oh my, & I whine with the best, & complain, & carry on like a 5 year old:( And I'm long past 5.

My latest tirade: I have to work all Thanksgiving week. And Skye is coming home. And Keith's niece Molly is visiting for the week. This is her first visit in years--who will entertain Molly? When will I see Skye? I've really missed her this summer & fall:( And they both are craving home cooked meals...well, so am I!

But, many people work all week. I'm not the only one--Not. At. All.

And it will turn out ok, I'm sure.

I can see Skye & Molly in the evenings. They can meet me for lunch. Seth & Kelley can have them over. Cameron can drop in. I will have Thanksgiving Day off. Plus a BIG THANKS to my DIL, Kelley, (& Seth) who has offered her house for the feast on Thursday:)

Bless your heart, Kelley:)

Then Keith can gather the troops Friday & Saturday.

I'm not sure why it's worked out that my co-worker Jane & I are carrying the load next week, but our manager Yvonne & co-worker Toni need to spend time away, cuddling with grandchildren. There's nothing in me that can argue that loving on grandkids is less important than my schedule.

My kids are adults & they can do fine without me (did I really say that)??

Attitude is a decision.

Pray I will have a thankful attitude as I celebrate Thanksgiving this year:) Because I am so grateful for my countless blessings:)!

A Trip To Visit Janie & Tour Boston

I

Early last Friday morning Cameron gave us a ride to RDU to catch a flight to Boston. It's rare Keith & I fly, so this was a real treat! Before boarding, we ordered breakfast & read the newspaper while watching the sun rise across the runway :)

We were flying to the Boston area to visit a dear friend who we've known since 1972. Janie was one of the girls in our church youth group back when Keith & I lived in Stone Ridge, NY, in '69-'73.

Last December Janie & her friend Louise had a "wild hair". For Janie's birthday they decided to take a Jetblue special ($29 for 24 hrs.) to Raleigh to visit us! We hadn't seen her in 34 years! It was a "wild" time in more ways than one since Keith ended up in the hospital for emergency surgery the very evening they arrived!! After the exciting 24 hours in NC, Janie kept inviting us up to her neck of the woods, & finally, finally, we decided to go:)

Rain greeted us at Logan Airport. We grabbed our luggage & picked up our Dodge Charger rental car. Our plan was to see some of the city sights & surrounding countryside. Not an easy feat in a strange city, but Keith's Droid GPS helped figure it out. We drove by MIT & Harvard, & along JFK Ave., before touring the coastline north of Boston. Even with overcast skies the water & clouds & ocean were dramatic, & the scenery was beautiful!

By late afternoon we checked into our Norwood Courtyard motel, where I immediately took a little nap. Around 7pm we met Janie at her house where she introduced us to her new friend Michael & her son David. She suggested a local restaurant in downtown Norwood for dinner. We enjoyed catching up with one another's news & quizzing Michael & David. Before departing we agreed to the Saturday "tourist plan" which would begin the following morning at 10am.

Saturday's destination was Cape Cod, with Janie at the wheel & Michael riding shotgun. The scenery was nothing like what I had pictured in my mind! Instead of sandy, windswept landscapes, the Cape was covered in thick fall colored hardwoods, with narrow windy roads that reminded me more of mountain scenery than island coast views. Saltbox houses tucked in among the trees everywhere. And the beaches were sand & dunes & seaweed covered, not rocky like the northern beaches around Marblehead & Glouster.

It was at least an hour or more to Chatham from Norwood, the "elbow" of the arm of Cape Cod, where we ate lunch at a local bar. Janie & I had delicious lobster salads:) Both the "boys" wouldn't touch seafood--good grief, what they do miss:(

Afterward we checked out the gift shops, bought some fudge, then called it a day on the Cape & headed back. We said goodnight to Janie & Michael, all happy to spend the day together, yet exhausted & ready to rest.

Sunday morning dawned cloudy & gray like Friday, & Janie had a plan. Thinking ahead she had collected metro passes from friends so we could travel around the city free:)! On the way downtown to park at Mass General (where she works), Janie gave us a tour of the suburbs of Brookline & Newton, both filled with beautiful tall hardwoods & "McMansion" homes. Everywhere there were majestic trees; in the medians, filling the parks, blanketing the subdivisions!! Countless parks around Boston:)

The day was windy & chilly. After getting to Quincy by metro, the 4 of us stopped to watch an Australian street performer. Michael & Keith were 'volunteered' to help entertain. The performer was amazing, & oh so funny!! A fun way to begin the day:)

Shopping was next on the agenda. We browsed a while, then bought gelato & coffee:) After winding up "my" shopping spree, we took a short ferry ride to see the USS Constitution--burr, a cold ride:(!!

The Constitution is a beautiful ship but small:) Hard to believe she could weather the huge Atlantic Ocean. (We had to be searched to get on board!) After crossing back on the ferry, we caught the metro to begin our trip home.

Dinner with Louise, Janie's friend & neighbor, was at 6pm:)

Louise served us a delicious meal. She enjoys dinner parties & we enjoyed her cooking:) Louise introduced us to her friend Billy, a school classmate that has reconnected with her after many years, just like Janie & Michael:) Another neighbor, a friendly, spry, older gentleman, joined us for dinner as well.

It was a sweet evening, a fitting close to an awesome weekend:)

After many hugs around we said goodnight, & goodbye, to all:)

It was beginning to sleet, time to leave.

PS. Monday morning sleep in was heavenly. I could hear the wind howl ever so often, & more sleet had fallen. We took our time, enjoying breakfast & finally checking out before noon. On our way to the airport we stopped for a while at the local LLBean store.

At Logan, after checking through security, we bought a hot lunch & sat in front of the large windows in the retaurant, watching the planes take off & taxi in. The rain continually drizzled down the large glass panes.

By the time our flight was called the rain had become steady.

Our time in Boston was over--but sweet memories remain that will always be enjoyed:)

Seth & Kelley met us at RDU, where the sun was shining....home, safe & sound:)

Until the next time, Janie:)

God bless you & yours:)

Oh Fall, where did you go, etc.?:)

1. I am upset that summer has us in it's grip here in NC:( The high today was 85, with sweltering humidity:( Fall is my favorite time of year, yet warm weather is stealing autumn!!

2. I have worked 3 days in a row this week, & 2 of those were subbing as manager. Let me go on record: I do not prefer to be in charge.

3. The WIC Retreat in Blowing Rock last weekend did "rock":) So anointed! The Lord lavished us with His Presence:)

4. Skye graced us with a short visit last week/weekend:) I wish she would have stayed longer, but know she's carving out her own place. Tough for me.

5. Love working during the holidays:) Our store was decorated for Christmas last Thursday, & it's wonderful to look at the pretty decorations & hear some of the Christmas songs:) Next week I begin putting out Christmas cards--a HARD job, yet enjoyable.

6. Unexpectedly I have off tomorrow:) A gift. I am feeling so wiped out this week. And I need some quality time with my Care Receiver!! So we're meeting for lunch at Panera's:)

7. Unhappy about working all through Thanksgiving (except Thanksgiving Day) weekend, but my DEAR DIL has volunteered to host our lunch gathering--that's so sweet! That helps:)

8. The McFarlands would prefer not to exchange Christmas gifts anymore; I think I'm ok with that. And I think my sister's family probably would like to drop that tradition also. Paring down is a good thing. It's taken me years to concede that:)

9. I love my Peace Bible Study sisters:) I simply love them:) My encouragers.

10. Wyatt had a bath today. He's much more lovable when he's clean & smells less "houndy":) He's my bud:)

11. Love my new Kindle! Reading "Same Kind Of Different As Me" again. It's just as good as the first time, maybe better!!

12. 9 days till Keith & I fly to Boston. I'm excited:) A long weekend in the Northeast, with our friend Janie:) Whoa!

13. Oswald Chambers & C.S. Lewis are heroes of mine--2 of those in the Heavenly Hosts who are cheering me on:) Isn't that a good thought?

And, my mama & daddy are cheering too--encouraging my brothers & sister & me at the same time:)

Wow:)

October

Oak Island

Last Friday Keith & I packed up & traveled east to Oak Island to visit friends Judy & JE:) If you're a Whisper Space follower, you'll know we've done this for the last 3 years:)

October on Oak Island is simply a pleasure:) 

Biking around the streets & along the ocean in cool fall weather is hard to beat. Add to that catching up with old friends (Judy & I have known each other all our lives) & it's extremely nice. Add to that Judy's hospitality & cooking, & it's superb!

Icing on the cake--October beach/sound sunsets:)

Bless you, J & JE, for another memorable weekend:)

Confession Of a Selfish Heart

I wrote this last summer. I confess it's a hard one to share:

I read Todd W.'s blog today. He is our youth pastor, someone I really admire. It spurred me on to write about something I learned recently about "Who Am I?"
A few weeks ago a deacon from our church extended an invitation to a grieving family to have Peace host a funeral for their son who had died suddenly in a tragic accident. They didn't have a church family & must have wanted a church service. A kind offer, one I whole-heartedly agreed with, & was even pleased we could help in any way possible.

But---that meant Comfort & Care would be involved. My friend L. & I coordinate C&C. L. was going out of town for her first weekend away all summer, which left me to make sure things were put into motion.
It was a holiday weekend. I had finagled a day off & thought of all the things I wanted to do with "my" time--especially a bike ride with family:).
A fellow C&C friend offered to organize the Reception meal; a wonderful gesture, a God send! Lord, I vote she gets stars in her crown for this one:)

But, my heart was definitely divided, &, all the while, I hated feeling that way. But that dark heart made me count the hours I'd be involved.
Here was a family suffering through the WORST thing a parent can face--the death of a child/a young man & I'm hoping to get home by noon:(

Enfolding this family in such a way (by our pastor leading the funeral service & C&C preparing a light reception) was such a comfort to them.

Friends brought in enough food to feed an army (& that was added to the food D. had gathered & bought), even enough Caribou Coffee for an army! So amazing, such love for this young man who lost his life so suddenly.

As I served tea & soft drinks, the family & friends of K. blessed me time after time with testimonies of their son, brother, cousin, friend, co-worker. I wish I had known K. I cried for him & all those who will forever miss him.

We didn't get home till mid afternoon. Our bike ride didn't happen. Hubby & I were bushed. Emotionally exhausted:(

So, you ask, "who am I"?
I am a miserable sinner the Lord uses in spite of myself, in spite of my selfishness. He wouldn't let me get away with being self-absorbed this time.
That is a redeeming thought--to realize God can minister through us no matter what we're focused on, no matter if we're selfish to the core, no matter how reluctant we serve.

I wish I had gone into K.'s Reception with a tender heart, full of love for this aching family.
I mean, that's what counts in life, what we do with each day for those around us, not what each day holds for me, me, me!
Thank God for His redeeming power.

And J. & H., I am so glad you wanted a church funeral for your son, & that you allowed Peace to be part of God's comfort to you.
We are all the better for it.
God is our Comforter, Hallelujah!

And our Redeemer.

A Trial In Our Community

      (Photo of downtown Raleigh)

This week I've entered another world.
I've spent two days, Tuesday & Thursday,  in downtown Raleigh, sitting in a very chilly Wake County Courthouse courtroom watching a sorrowful, convoluted, sordid story unfold.
If you read this 'novel', you would not believe it.
And there's more to come.....

Almost two years ago a precious family from our church suffered a great tragedy--their 17 year old Eagle Scout son was murdered. Not only murdered, but killed by 4 'friends'. Not only murdered by friends, these people were high schoolers. And not only just any local high schoolers, they were attending the high school 1/2 mile from me--where my kids spent their high school years. This group of kids hung out at the Plaza where I work. One of the boys, the one on trial right now, worked 4 stores down from where I work. The plot was discussed & hatched all around my 'world'--Target & Lowe's, Wendy's, Blockbuster's across US 64 from me, etc.

It's hard to wrap my mind around all this---the manipulation, the deception, the lack of responsibility, the cruelness, the lack of remorse, the lack of truth, the lack of adult supervision/concern....should I go on?
Drugs, jealousy, romance, sex, depression, all here.
All of this from children.

But, at the same time, I simply can't separate the pity I feel for these teenagers. They lived in a world they perceived as hopeless. I have no clue what their family dynamics were, but I sensed from their testimonies most of them felt unloved & outcast, that no one cared for them. So they clung to one another, trusted one another even when it was foolish to do so.
Now, in 2010, as their trials begin, these teenagers have been living in jail about two years. Makes me ill to think they are living daily in a place of oppression & darkness within our prison system, trapped in a world of evil begetting evil.
(I fear we've failed at restoration & rehabilitation in our penal system in the 21st century)
What desperation.

Lord, help us comfort our friends & remember the dear son & brother that died.

Lord, help us not to forget these sad children & their families whose lives will forever be changed--& pray for hope & redemption.

September

"Summer is already better, but the best is autumn.

It is mature, reasonable and serious, it glows
moderately and not frivolously ... It cools down,
clears up, makes you reasonable ..." 


Valentin






(Photo taken on the Erwin-Dunn Rails to Trails)

A Sweet September Sunday Afternoon Ride

Sunday afternoon Keith & I drove an hour south to the town of Erwin where we met longtime friends of ours, Larry & Katie, to ride the Rails to Trails bike route from Erwin to Dunn & back.

After suffering a summer of extreme heat & humidity, this Labor Day Weekend has offered welcome relief weather wise, with low humidity & temps:)! Perfect weather to be outside biking:)

Keith found this trail online, but the critique comments were from a year to two years ago, so we really had no idea what we'd find, especially since a few of the comments were negative. But, we were ready for an adventure, & it was close to Larry & Katie's home located in Johnston County.

We had a grand time!
The trail was perfect for our group. It was pretty flat overall, paved with fine gravel.
We did have to pedal most of the way--not hard pedaling & few gear changes, but a medium workout. Round trip was 11 miles including a slight detour through part of Dunn to Arby's to get a cold drink & a light supper before heading back to Erwin.

We passed cotton fields & soybean fields, crossed over a few paved back roads with almost no traffic, & forded the Black River. Lovely, lovely, NC scenery--wispy clouds in the blue sky, a breeze now & then, & plenty of peace & quiet in green farm country.

A sweet time on a September afternoon with friends just beginning retirement & adjusting to less time constraints; all of us looking forward to spending more days together biking, visiting,  becoming re-acquainted again:)

And we gladly recommend the Erwin-Dunn Trail for a peaceful bike ride with friends or family:)

A Saturday Afternoon In Downtown Raleigh

Last Saturday afternoon, on an unusually mild August day, Keith & I decided to check out  the Capitol Car Show held along Fayetteville Street in Raleigh.

I enjoy these shows. They're like an art exhibit to me...vehicles with beautifully crafted lines, gorgeous vibrant colors, a few in subdued colors, all shapes & sizes, most polished to perfection. Car restorers, car artists, hover nearby, showing their stuff, proud of their creations.

It's like an art exhibit & an antique show rolled into one.
Many spectators have fond memories of these refurbished cars--they may have owned one similar or have had a friend who had one.
Many may have dreamed of owning one.
A time to dream & admire & appreciate craftsmanship--and to enjoy being downtown.

A nice way to spend an afternoon in Raleigh:)
A little breeze now & then made it even sweeter:)

Shine

"The stuff that wears on the nerves polishes the soul."

I am continually being polished.
And I think my friends are in on this too.

A Cloudy Morning....

I woke up this morning, early, on my day off, with a throbbing headache:(
Not a good way to start a day:(
I've dealt with headaches most of my life. Not debilitating ones normally, but ones that stop me from my daily routine.
Medication often helps, but not always.
(I've suffered with migraines as well, but Inderal has taken care of them, thank God!)
Today/this morning--no walk, no Wyatt walk (he's wondering why, staring at me, as I write this), still in pj's, no bed made, wrapped in a light cover on the couch.....
These days Tylenol Extra Strength is supposed to be my friend, but so far--not!
UGH:(
So, HGTV & hot tea are the only things on my agenda for now.


I've added a photo of my favorite flowers below since it's Keith's & my 41st anniversary:)
Happy Anniversary Keith:)

• 
  

Oh Mercy!

Let me whine a little. I'll feel better:)

I am tired of this summer already, & it's just arrived four weeks ago.
It's hot.
It's so hot, it's depressing & oppressive.
Not only hot, it's been hot for so long it's exhausting....& it's only July 22nd.
(Dare I think about August?)
Unrelenting heat.
100 degrees is becoming normal in every weekly forecast.
The low 90's is a cool spell, a respite, the weather people say....
We're headed for a record of 90+ degree days in NC.
And I haven't even mentioned humidity yet.
Sigh....
Doesn't it make you tired? Makes one yearn for cool breezes & cool evenings & a cool rain.

The temperature colors every conversation, every newscast, every thought of walking or biking, at least for Keith & me. Actually we've given up on biking this summer. It was too cold this winter, too wet this spring, now too hot:( Maybe fall will be our season?
I have to walk Wyatt each morning. If not, I simply can't get motivated in the evening. So now I get up early even on my days off, to take him out by 6am, or else he'll have heatstroke!

I'm sure we had plenty of hot spells when I was growing up. We didn't have air conditioning either. But, kids aren't affected like adults. Then again, adults, if possible, rested inside with the curtains drawn or sat out on the porch with a fan, & didn't pretend to work during the heat of the day back then. Work was done primarily early in the morning & late in the afternoon during the summer months. Today we must be doing something constantly, rushing here & there, non-stop (or we feel guilty). Maybe we should slow down & be still & pace ourselves. I mean, we do have August & September to get through.

I'm already praying for mercy; cooler air, gentle rains, thunderstorms, trips to the mountains, or a visit to any place that offers a respite, & last but not least, for patience--& for fall to arrive sooner than usual!!

July Happenings Part 3

Now, blog, it's Monday morning in Beaver Falls:) Our final day in Pa.

Skye & I got up & out the door by 9, walked to the local coffee shop, ordered our favorites, & sat outside savoring our Americana & Skinny latte, hoping for a breeze:) It was a pretty warm start to the day in BF!

Later on Jeannie & I drove to the Salvation Army to look over the clothes, etc.--it's one of our traditions, & they were having a sale. After a while Skye & Molly dropped by to check out things--they didn't want to stay as long as the moms do:) All of us found some deals:) I, for one, got a great fitting pair of jeans:)

After having lunch together the Mc clan set out for Pittsburgh & The Home to visit Mom & Dad for the last time this trip. The Carson crowd decided to stay in Beaver Falls, but planned to meet us in Cranberry for dinner/supper, before Nick needed to head back to his apartment & Scottie to soccer practice.

We had an especially good visit with Grandma & Grandpa. This afternoon Grandpa was quite interested in Cameron's iPhone & figured out how to flip photos right away, with Cameron's help. He even asked about the phone plan!

Grandma enjoyed the pictures also:)












Ending our day in Cranberry, at Max & Erma's, was a neat idea, courtesy of Nick(his idea). The food was delicious, & a good time was had by all:) Goodbyes were said to Nick, then the rest of us departed, back to Beaver Falls, to spend the evening together at the Carsons', & finally, on to our B&B for one last night.

The "B&B" is Ken's uncle's & aunt's home, located a few blocks from Geneva College. His uncle & aunt are presently living at The Home in Pittsburgh where Mom & Dad now reside, so their home is unoccupied.
It turned out to be a great help to us & we really appreciated the 'home away from home':)

Tuesday morning was last minute packing, then we dropped off the house key, & were southbound by 7am!
A special vacation time with family; such a blessing!

July Happenings Part 2

Sunday morning we attended College Hill Reformed Pres. Church with Ken & Jean, Nick, Molly& Beth:) The singing was especially beautiful -- acapella harmony is glorious:)

Afterward we had lunch with the Carson's. Then the 4 of us Mc's, plus Ken, Jean, & Nick, drove to Pittsburgh to visit Mom & Dad. It's hard getting use to driving an hour to see them--each way! And the Home is up quite a steep hill. The area reminds me of pictures of San Francisco.

Dad was pretty responsive & talkative, & Mom was pretty much as sharp as ever. She's taking good care of Dad, watching over him like a mother hen:) (This was our second visit with both Mom & Dad. We had stopped Friday evening on our way up to Beaver Falls--Dad asked both times about Seth:))

After debating a day or two on whether to try seeing the fireworks in downtown Pittsburgh, Nick & Jeannie encouraged us to go. So, after saying goodbye to Mom & Dad, us Mc's parted ways with the Carson clan (they were celebrating Rev. Carson's 81st birthday in Beaver Falls), ate at Chili's then headed down toward the Three River's Point. We had no trouble finding a close parking lot ($10 close), & found a spot to set up our chairs just a few rows from the waterfront--super viewing:)

Then we people-watched for a few hours while waiting for the show. The fireworks were a spectacular display of color, one finale on top of another!!  Way to go Pittsburgh!!! Fabulous:) It was worth seeing:)

Happy 2010 Fourth of July! Third day next blog.....

July Happenings

July has continued June's spell of hot weather---which wears at me & is exhausting:(
Just listening to Greg Fishal's forecast is draining.
The previous 2 days here have passed the 100 degree mark, with yesterday breaking a record in the Raleigh area.

Last Friday, taking a long Fourth of July weekend, we packed up, dropped off Wyatt at Town & Country kennel, & drove north to Pa. to visit Keith's mom & dad---Keith, Cameron, Skye & me.
(At the same time Seth & Kelley headed in the opposite direction, to Florida, to see 'best buds' George & Leigh)
Those of us heading north were hoping for a cool respite!!
That evening we arrived at Keith's sister & brother in law's home in Western Pa. After settling into our designated "B&B" for the night (Ken's uncle & aunt's home--their story later), we met at Jean & Ken's Saturday morning for breakfast.
Afterward Keith, Skye, & I headed to Pittsburgh to pick up Grandma to take her to New Castle for a noon picnic/reunion with her family, she being one of three daughters of Ira Irvin & Goldie Gladys Kennedy Brown, & their children, & children's children. (Their baby brother, Uncle Russell, died a few years ago)
Jean & Ken & their gang met us there.

Aunt Beryl hosted the gathering, with food & chairs spread under a huge (Elm or Ash) tree. The large branches shaded the entire yard! After eating, everybody lingered, reminiscing, catching up, enjoying seeing cousins, aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, grandchildren:)
Cameron showed off his new Subaru:) And John showed off his 1940 Ford:)

 A day of sweet reunion:)
 To be continued.....

A Sizzling Summer

Since Skye's graduation, life's been pretty exciting around here:)
I've blogged about our fun NYC weekend, still bringing back sweet memories even as I write this--thanks so much to my family for helping with such a memorable gift:)

The following weekend, June 5th, Skye came home, & with Keith & I, helped celebrate a church family wedding, Josh & Anna's, who both grew up at Peace:)
Last Saturday I attended a baby shower for another church couple's daughter, Kristina.
Precious milestones for our friends' children:)

June 20th was Father's Day. Cameron, Holly, Seth, & Kelley & Three came over for a hot dog lunch:) They gave Keith a pretty ceiling fan/light for the living room:) I think I made out on that deal as well:)

This week dear old friends from our upstate NY days dropped by on a southern vacation trip & stayed for a few nights:) I'm afraid the record NC heat wave was not welcoming, but what a great blessing to catch up on Patty & Peg's news after almost 30 years!! I can't tell you how good it was to see them!

Patty was in our youth group when we lived in NY, & Peg is her mom. After we moved back to NC, Patty came to live with us for about a year (in 1980).
Peg is 80 years young; a pretty, petite lady, who is as gracious as any southern woman & as mentally sharp & alert as ever! Patty teaches elementary education at a local prison (near Stone Ridge), has a Spaniel named Bella that she adores, loves her free summers, & seems to be recuperating well from health problems she's experienced in the last few years.
We enjoyed dinner at Tribeca Tavern Wednesday evening, along with Cameron, Seth, & Kelley. Even in this terrible heat wave we dined outside on their upstairs porch, cooled by ceiling fans. The food was delicious:)
Thursday, Keith & 'us girls' toured the new NC Art Museum. (I haven't decided how I feel about it. Maybe I'll blog my thoughts another time) Afterward Patty, Peg, Keith, & I enjoyed a light lunch at Carolina Cafe in Cameron Village followed by shopping at The Seagrove Pottery store, which I always think is a treat:) Then it was nap time, the best idea when it's 100 degrees! Hot weather is exhausting.

Since the temperature was still unrelenting that evening, P, P, & I voted not to attend the Peace tournament softball game with Keith & Seth, choosing instead to have a light supper here, while continuing to catch up on far too many years apart.
(Thankfully the team won, so I'll get to see the final games:))

Friday morning the girls said goodbye after a late breakfast & headed out to Roanoke, Va., where Patty's uncle/Peg's brother lives, & where they'll spend the weekend before traveling home to upstate NY. Hopefully they'll find cooler weather!

Friday afternoon I went in to work till 5pm. At 6pm Christy & George (my sister & brother in law) & their twin granddaughters Harley & Kendyll, picked me up to go see Rascal Flatts in concert at Walnut Creek in Raleigh:) (Niece Amy had generously provided tickets--bless you Amy!!) Keith opted not to go, deciding to enjoy his recliner in the cool AC instead:)
Rascal Flatts were kicking off their 2010/Tenth Year Tour last night, & I must say they put on the best concert I've ever seen--sizzling in more ways than one! (BTW Chris Young & Kelly Pickler opened & they were very good as well) The music was GREAT, & the visuals were AMAZING!! Video screens moved & videos of gorgeous painted scenes & beautiful woods scenes changed throughout each song, plus the video graphics in between & at the end were astounding.
Can't say enough!!! WHOA! A feast for the eyes & ears!

So today is a respite day.
A quiet day.
I will be honest. Even with all these exciting events, seeing old friend, being with family, I've struggled with a disgusting nagging cough that has hung on for months, AND being diagnosed with diabetes (I've mentioned here previously). Both those health situations, plus changes=stress at work, have left me fighting off some depression.
This week the cough finally seems to be letting up, thank the Lord.
And, many people have been encouraging in my struggle with the diabetes diet.

Prayer, sweet moments with dear ones, celebrations, glorious music, all lift my spirits.
God sends us blessings each day that make our hearts' sing, if we listen:)

NYC--the 3rd day & 4th morning

Our third morning, Sunday, we slept in:) Got brunch on the opposite side of our hotel, at Lou's Cafe. They weren't fast, but the food was good, especially the coffee (which I needed desperately by that time!).

By noon we started our trek to the Guggenheim Museum, 30 blocks from the Hilton. Now we didn't start out thinking we'd walk all the way, but as we strolled, we decided we could do it--even Betsy in her heels! Kelley & Betsy looked in a few shops for a purse for Kelley but she couldn't decide on one.
Madison Ave. is amazing--pretty trees & flowers & wrought iron gates & fencing:)

After passing by the Met., we arrived at the spectacular white G. building--a Frank Lloyd Wright masterpiece. I especially wanted to see the structure, outside & in!:) We walked through the 5 floors, taking in the creative, modern exhibits--nothing too impressive to me. But the side gallery on the first floor was hung with wonderful Impressionist paintings!!
SO glad I got to see the place:)

We were all tired out after the G. so a taxi ride back to the hotel was due. B&K wanted to return to some of the 5th Ave. shops after a rest, but Skye & I wanted to tackle a more eclectic area of the city. After texting a few of her friends Skye decided on the East Village:) Fine with me:) We flagged down a taxi & told him our destination. The first thing we did was order a nacho snack & cold drinks at a local Mexican restaurant. Then we began hiking. Someone had suggested Tompkins Park, so we headed there. Across from the park a coffeeshop/restaurant called Life Cafe was mentioned as a nice place to eat---and we were so thirsty, again! We chose a seat outside. I spied banana crepes on the menu &amp ordered those as well as drinks--just yummy!
With a few hours left, we began slowly working our way back toward 5th Ave. At Union Square, a very busy shopping/congregating area, I found a funky copper moonstone ring crafted by a sidewalk vendor:)
Finally, after covering quite a bit of territory, we gave in & got a cab for the last leg of our adventure:)

We met B&K back at the hotel (Kelley had found a purse:)),so together we walked toward Times Square to have a last dinner in the Big City:) Skye & I weren't hungry after snacking our way through the East Village, so she ordered a drink & I had a grilled cheese. B&K had sandwiches, then split a blueberry cheesecake. Skye & I had a little taste; it was very good!!
Next door was a souvenir shop---the last shopping stop (other than a few things at the airport) before flying home:) I found some neat gifts:)
At sunset we leisurely strolled back to the hotel before saying good-night.
5am would come early!!

Thankfully Memorial Day morning our taxi ride to JFK & the JetBlue flight home was uneventful & easy...by noon we were back in NC.
Oh, the time went by far too quickly for me but a super trip, packed with so many good memories:)!!!
Thank you Betsy, Kelley, & Skye:)
And for all the prayers of countless friends:)

NYC--our 2nd day:)

Our 2nd day in the Big Apple began with brunch at Astro's once again. They actually serve grits in the middle of Manhattan--amazing! 

The Saturday adventures began with a trip to the Top of the Rock in Rockefeller Center. I was a little nervous, since heights are not my thing:( But, must say the elevator was so smooth & quick it felt like we were beamed up the 70 floors! And I didn't have to go outside to see a stunning view--acrylic panels are not comforting to me! The idea of stepping out onto the deck made my feet sweat (weird), but overall a great way to see the city!

Before going to the Top of the Rock, Skye had found a neat place to get an Americana coffee which she had had to give up when we got on the elevator, so she bought a 2nd one afterward, then we stopped in The Met Store to buy a few gifts, & afterward caught a taxi to Fish Eddy, a quaint shop Kelley had found online. It was Skye's favorite store (mine too)--cool plates, cups, saucers, plaques, towels, all unusual & reasonably priced :)

After purchasing some goodies we walked for a while, finding a farmer's market where Skye & I bought NY apples. She also saw 'Pete' from 30 Rock around the same time--a cool sighting:)!

Later grabbed a taxi to take us to Ground Zero.

Memorial Day was an appropriate time to go. We spent some time at St. Paul's Chapel where many, many people took refuge on 9/11. The site itself where the Twin Towers stood is surrounded by fencing, so it's hard to visualize how devastating it must have been. After a long hike to get a better view down into the area, all that was visible were cranes & other construction vehicles. I stopped briefly on our walk imagining how many screams & prayers hung in the air that day ....a sad, haunting place.

We took a break at a tree-lined park close by, located on the Battery, bought some ice cream & water, then caught another taxi back to our hotel for a much needed rest. That evening we ate dinner at The Mesa Grill, owned by Bobby Flay! Kelley had made reservations before our trip, so we were excited about our fancy meal.:) I had a shrimp & cornbread dish, prepared in a corn husk, with squash blossoms on the side--superb:) To finish off our fabulous dinner we shared a slice of his Coconut cake:) No Bobby in the house that evening, but what a treat!!

Walking back, we shopped a little at Anthropologie, then strolled north toward the Empire State Building, glowing in red, white, & blue lights in honor of Memorial Day, & on toward our hotel--a pretty evening:)

After arriving at the Hilton Skye was ready to head back out for some more nightlife, but the rest of us were just too tired:(! Sorry Skye:(

NYC--our first day!

Last Friday, Skye, Kelley, Kelley's mom Betsy, & I flew to NYC for a 3 day vacation to the Big Apple!

We were celebrating a milestone birthday for Betsy & me, & celebrating Skye's graduation from college:)!
Kelley helped with reservations beforehand, then, after arriving, guided us around Manhattan. She had spent a short semester during her Salem College years working at MTV, so she was pretty 'city savvy' as far as Skye & I were concerned (Betsy knew quite a bit too:)).

We stayed on 6th & 53rd...a very nice location:)
After a good brunch at Astro's (close by our hotel), we headed to 5th Ave. & Tiffany's, where Betsy bought a small souvenir. Then on to Central Park where we decided spur of the moment to do the tourist thing & take a carriage ride:)
And for the rest of the afternoon we walked around, through, took taxi cabs by, thoroughly enjoying scouting out, this beautiful lush 800+ acre park:)!

By mid afternoon we headed back to the hotel to check in & take a nap (we'd been up since 3:30 am!).

After resting for a few hours we headed down the block to the Modern Museum of Art. On Friday nights admission is free from 4-8pm. So we dived in to see some great artwork along with about half of NYC! It was truly an art party:)!

Then we strolled toward Times Square looking for a place to have dinner. We ended up at Angelo's Pizza where we enjoyed mouth-watering white pizza. Afterward we walked further down the crowded Times Square ( crowds reminded me of the NC State Fair), saw where MTV was located/where Kelley worked, & capped off our evening with dessert at Magnolia Bakery, not far from our Hilton--yummy!

A grand first day in the Big Town!

A May Birthday

Our first born, Cameron Stewart, was born May 29th, 36 years ago:)
Then, I couldn't imagine our lives with a baby. Now, I couldn't imagine life without all 6 foot 4 inches of him (& our other kids)!

Cameron's arrival was a great blessing:)
He was a quiet, easy-going, little boy, always playing with Lego's, matchbox cars, his Big Wheel, & reading. Quite content to entertain himself:)

As an adult he has attended NCSU, worked for a few computer companies in the area (now at IConnect), has a special friend Holly, owns a townhome, enjoys biking & playing computer games with friends, hosts movie nights for his buddies, & recently bought this new Subaru, pictured here.

Cameron, here's wishing you another wonderful, healthy & content 36 years, plus countless more.
May the Lord be your Best Friend, may you be surrounded with dear close friends, & family that you enjoy being with:)
Love you, Mom:)

A Tough Thing To Hear; The 'D' Word.

This week, Tuesday, I stopped by my doctor's office to have a TB test. While there I asked for a few minutes with my doctor to discuss recent lab blood work results.
The office called last Friday notifying me that my lab tests indicated signs of renal failure; the 'D' word was mentioned...
Dr. Jordon made time for me immediately and gave me her undivided attention.
The verdict?
Yep--Diabetes.
The 'D' word has been dogging me for years. The thought of it drove me to Weight Watcher's a few years ago. After losing 25 lbs. I simply became lazy and fell into cahoots with old gluttony once again:(
Gulp.
The kidneys are hit hard with high blood pressure, carrying too much weight,  loving sweets in excess.
My walking, which my doctor loves (and I enjoy!), simply cannot overcome all that. Walking is a diabetics best friend, but losing weight is equally important.
So, what will I do with this diagnosis?

I need to change.
I have a sugar addiction.
God, this is hard. Help me with self control.

Skye Graduates!

Sunday afternoon, a cool sunny afternoon, Skye graduated Cum Laude from Appalachian State University with a degree in Appalachian Studies & a minor in Religion.

How exciting!
Her Grandma Robeson would be proud.
She always believed education was extremely important. And Skye's first year at App was paid with Mama's inheritance to our family:) It couldn't have been used in a better way:)

Now Skye looks forward to graduate school, and with that, the responsibility of finding a job(s) to help support her through at least two more years.

This is her time to figure out her passions, her unique talents, where the Lord is guiding her....the adventure begins!

I'm proud of you, Skye-girl!

The Home Place

 

This morning I drove down to Aberdeen to have lunch with my brother Lindsay. Afterward we met our sister Christy where the three of us set out to hike our home place, named "Sandrock Acres" by our mama.
The original farm was about 73 acres, & continues today to be Lindsay's home & Christy's family's home.

Our brother Mark sold his portion of the farm property to our cousin Tommy in the past year. Recently Tommy has asked if he could trade some acreage with me in order to build a house on the back hill, so Lindsay wanted me to walk the land & see what Tommy's proposing before signing on the dotted line.

After dividing up the farm a few years ago, then Mark selling his part, we're also rethinking the way the farm has been partitioned, thus another incentive to walk the property today & discuss what might be changed.

The weather was overcast, a mite muggy, but overall a good day to take a hike.
I sprayed thoroughly with insect repellent (remembering past nasty attacks of chiggers!), put on sunscreen, & knee socks with hiking boots (in case I came across a snake--which I saw the last time I hiked the farm!)

Right away my sister's little dogs flushed out a good sized "mama" turkey!! She flew up & away from her chicks, diverting the dogs' attention. I can't recall ever seeing one growing up!

As you can see by the photo, everything is lush & green, with many of the trees maturing so much in the last few years I had trouble orienting myself once in a while.
I must say, it is a beautiful place, more beautiful than it was when I was young. The creek has created wetlands where hardwoods have flourished, & the pines, rising out of a fresh carpet of pine straw, are reaching to the sky!

A sweet time today with my family in a place where we were first loved so dearly:)
Mark, wish you had been there too.

“There is a serene and settled majesty to woodland scenery that enters into the soul and delights and elevates it, and fills it with noble inclinations.”
Washington Irving

A Sweet Place

 

“Home, the spot of earth supremely blest,
A dearer, sweeter spot than all the rest”
Robert Montgomery

Wishing Seth & Kelley countless blessings, joy, & contentment as they set up housekeeping on Culvert Street:)

Last night they, & Three, spent their first night in their new cozy bungalow. Tonight they wrapped up moving the last items from their previous abode.

Welcome back to Apex, Seth & Kelley & Three!
We are tickled:)