Books and Grandchildren, What more could I ask?

It's not a cherry tree, but...

2010-04-19T13:33:00.002-04:00

This Bradford Pear outside of ACS is the only current picture I have a tree, but it brought to my mind (if not to Christopher's) Housman and my favorite lines. I will spare you most of it this year, but

"And since to look at things in bloom
Fifty years are but little room;
About the woodlands I must go,
And see the cherry hung with snow."

An Interesting Read

2010-03-19T09:42:00.004-04:00

I realize I never comment on non-fiction, but I often enjoy it also. Recently I picked up OUTLIERS by Malcolm Gladwell, the author of THE TIPPING POINT. I really did not want to put it down. Fascinating observations. I read where some reviewers think he makes mountains out of molehills; but, if so, they are intriguing molehills. I think all teachers, parents, and grandparents would be interested in the chapter titled "Rice Paddies and Math Tests", a very interesting take on why the Asians wipe us out in math. Christopher is already tired of hearing me tell him how the 8th grade student in China will not give up on a puzzling problem until after working at it for twenty-two minutes. I am afraid he is quite content with his American average of thirty seconds to two minutes. The real kicker is that the fault may lie with his grandmother not having grown up working in a rice paddy.

Check it out. I think you'll enjoy it.

February Fun

2010-02-26T09:40:00.007-05:00

Brief little February is always a busy month for us. Love the beautiful pink tulips Alice and Craig gave me for Valentine's Day.

Then on the 17th, Christopher celebrated his 14th birthday with some friends from Arlington.

On the 20th, Cole celbrated his birthday with Monkey Joe and quite a few little friends. No those aren't monkeys; that is his daddy and brother with him.

The big thing for all of us this February was snow!!! It is so much fun for us to have enough of the rare white powder to enjoy. Oren seemed to love everything about it.

This is actually a picture from the snow we had in January, but I had to include the angel.

Hope February was good for you, too.

2010-02-07T17:57:00.003-05:00

The author, Lisa Genova, chose the perfect title for her novel. This is a story of a 50 year-old woman who hoped her memory lapses and mild incidents of confusion were a result of entering menopause, but learned instead that she was entering early onset Alzheimer's disease. The story is told, as long as it can be, from her viewpoint. She was a brilliant scholar, a Harvard professor, devoted to the study of linguistics, words.....words that she would gradually lose. The title was so meaningful to me; however, because Alice did not lose herself. Yes, she became a different Alice, but she was still Alice and blessed were those around her who still realized who she was.

Bon Appetit !!

2010-01-09T17:31:00.003-05:00

I just finished reading Julia Child's memoir, My Life in France. She was in her early 90's when she collaborated with her great nephew-in-law, Alex Prud'homme to produce this book, and it is amazing how many details she recalled about her life in Paris, Marseille, Germany, Norway, and Provence. I was amazed at how diligently she had worked on Mastering the Art of French Cooking...the research, the testing of recipes, and the writing....without a word processor!

I wasn't always sure if Julia and I would have been good friends; she sometimes said some things about people that took me by surprise. I did love her dedication and her enthusiam for mastering French cooking. I think the reader has to remember that she is telling about things that happened many years ago when the world was rapidly changing, and she is being very honest about her own feelings about it all.

I had read the book written by the young Julie on which the recent movie is also based and had not liked it at all; I don't think I even finished it. I did enjoy Julia Child's book very much; I now want to Netflix "Julie and Julia" and watch it again.

This is one of several books I picked up last week with a gift card from my son and daughter-in-law. Thank you Karen and Andy!

Ready for 2010

2009-12-29T21:21:00.005-05:00

I have not blogged in months and; since part of the reason I blog is to save these memories for myself, I do want to review our Christmas. It was really a great Christmas; it seemed more peaceful, more relaxed than usual and I am still enjoying it. The week between Christmas and New Year's Day is my favorite week of the year always.
It is always fun to join the Ghost of Christmas Past and remember. On my sofa table I tried to select pictures of the children and grandchildren to remind us all of the joyful times we have shared.

Our first Christmas event was Cole's Christmas program at church. He is the angelic young man on the back row looking straight ahead.

Here is Cole with his cousin, Preston. I wanted you to see the adorable shirt he made at school. Cole is a fantastic young craftsman; he really seems to enjoy working with his hands. He does art work, makes fantastic things out of boxes, and LOVES creating paper airplanes.

Santa Claus was definitely the star of the season for Madison. She is visiting with him here at Georgian Place where her great grandmother lives. She saw him again with Granddaddy at Kiwanis and ran into him several times in stores. It really was magical.

I just happen to love this goofy shot of Christopher at Aunt Alice's Christmas village. Don't know what was so funny, but this is a candid shot that is so hard to get from him these days.

Again, at Aunt Alice's, cousins watching a movie.

As you might guess, Oren added so much excitement to Christmas this year. He even learned to say Santa Claus. Here is with one of the several "pup pups" he received.

I almost did not put this little tree anywhere this Christmas, but then remembered that Madison was the perfect age to enjoy a tree with Pinocchio. I don't really think he is a Christmas icon, but I picked up these little ornaments on trips to Italy so they bring back great memories.

I hope the holidays were joyous for all of you and that all of us can keep the peace of Christmas in our hearts all year.

Fun at the Beach

2009-07-31T21:33:00.007-04:00

We had a wonderful week at Cape San Blas, Florida, in July. Different family members came and went throughout the week, but we had a couple of days when we were all together. My pictures are in a crazy order, but I hope they show how much fun we had. Christopher took the Wii, and Cole out bowled everyone. Here he is showing Madison his technique. He is quite the teacher; she learned to roll strikes before the week was over.

They had a wonderful time with oysters, of all things!

We went to the bay one day, and this red sea horse was the most exciting find. Elizabeth gets to claim that.

A big crab for Cole

The bay was a great adventure. Cole has been quite a few times, but it was an exciting first for Madison.

The most beautiful baby on the beach

Andy and Oren.

Christopher decided to be in charge of the pancakes one morning, and here he shows off his pancake in which his grandfather professed to see the face of Jesus. Christopher decided to eat it instead of selling it on EBay.

You are never too young, or

too old to play in the sand.

Cole gave granddaddy lessons, also.

Oren had watched everyone else on the kayak all day, and he had to explore.

It was a wonderful week. We all dream of going back.

You guessed right, didn't you?

2009-06-18T10:06:00.002-04:00

Yes, this one is ours. Now, the name is the issue. I like Martha. Her coloring reminds me of Martha from the children's book series Martha Speaks. My grandson, Cole, likes the TV series based on the books. Al likes Muffin...ugh, too prissy! I have a feeling she will have to learn to respond to both. Stay tuned.

Want a puppy anyone?

2009-06-06T21:15:00.005-04:00

Immediate disclaimer...THEY ARE NOT MINE! These puppies belong to Elizabeth and Calvin's cocker, Angel. There are seven of them, and five supposedly have homes planned already. I think the Brownlees will keep one of them. Al wants one, I don't; stay tuned.

Don't worry; water spots on bricks are from a shower that morning...not the puppies.

Busy Spring Season

2009-05-12T14:17:00.007-04:00

Can you think of a better way to spend a springtime afternoon? Oren is a precious boy.

This does not look like the best place to let your grandbaby play, but he stayed entertained there for a long time.

Cole can "pop a wheelie" and stop on a dime. He has always been the king of riding toys.

Cole has played 3rd baseman quite a bit this spring. He has also made several runs for his team!

Madison enjoyed the camraderie of T-ball...can you see her in the middle cheering? BUT...

when it came to playing...she was blessed with a very gentle, patient coach. If you can click on a picture and enlarge it, you need to do so with this one.

I am late posting pictures from Christopher's induction into the Junior Beta Club at Arlington Christian School. We were very proud of what he had achieved. Here he is with some good buddies.

As usual he did not want to have his picture made. He needed to rush and be with all those buddies!

Each of these children are a joy to us in their own special way. It just gets better and better!

Happy Birthday, Madison!

2009-04-26T19:23:00.008-04:00

Many of you may have met Fancy Nancy, a precious new book character who loves everything fancy. Madison loves her so Elizabeth decided she would be the perfect theme for a special 4 year-old birthday party.

I meant to put the photo of the purses at the end. Each girl made one at the pary...Kate Spade, look out! Our little Indian made a pouch for his gold.

I am not sure if I am having camera or photographer (or both) problems, but some of my pictures are a little blurry. Here is our day, in no particular order.

Birthday cake this year had to be cupcakes with sprinkles!

Emerson Grace Dalton with her goodie box.

Avery King and the birthday girl.

Sophie Kelly blowing fancy bubbles in her "fancy" outfit her mother said Sophie chose with great care.

ONE picture where I caught all 8 moving objects. Note our Indian on the left side. We appreciate our cousin, Cole, being willing to spend his Saturday afternoon with all these girls. We should have seated him in the middle.

Allie King and Kaitlyn Harder petting our "Posh Puppy" who loved all the attention.

Princess also appeared to even love the boa!!

Madison's daddy drew us a big tiara so they all tried to "Pin the Diamond on the Tiara"!

I think part of my problem was not thinking to set my camera for bright sunlight.

Sophie

Madison and her cousin, Makayla

Allie did a great job placing the diamond. Both she and Avery were very close, and I forgot to award the prizes!!!

It was great fun, but.........next year..........McD's!

Beautiful Boy

2009-03-27T08:35:00.003-04:00

Oren Andrew Kennedy

Isn't he gorgeous? He is nine months old, crawling and pulling up on every stationary object he can find. He has a little mouth full of teeth. He just is not interested in staying a BABY no matter what the rest of us have to say about it. There is a world out there ready for him to conquer, and he is ready for action.

Time passes, but some things stay the same.

2009-03-11T15:28:00.004-04:00

When we were at the zoo this week, I noticed Christopher standing by this replica of a lion's claw and asked him to let me take his picture. In my mind, I was sure that I had a picture of him at the same spot several years ago. I believe he is eight years old in the first picture. Even more ironic was the instinctive way he played with the claw. When he was eight, he pretended the lion was getting him. Monday, as soon as I took the picture, he began to try to convince me that his hand was stuck in the claw. Five years have made a big difference in many ways, but the heart and the spirit are still the same.

ANIMAL CRACKERS....That's Us!

2009-03-11T10:53:00.009-04:00

This was Cole's snake birthday cake. Love the face!!!

A snake trainer came to Cole's birthday party, and he also brought this awesome alligator.

Besides snakes, Cole is also very interested in Star Wars right now. That really takes me back quite a few years because his daddy had several little Star Wars figurines when he was just a little older than Cole. Wish we had been careful to save them all for they were originals, merchandise from the first Star Wars movie.

Christopher did not have to go to school on Monday and chose the zoo as the place where he would like to spend the day. Here are the two of them in the van on the way. Excitement was building.

The real baby panda showed us how to climb his little play house. Then he settled down for an afternoon nap. We did not get there until lunch time; and after the feedings, many of the animals went to sleep. It was a great day for the zoo....low 70's and very few people.

Bless her heart, she loved all the fake animals about as much as the real ones.

This fun nest is in the "tree house".

Madison was in awe of the giraffes; they do look almost too good to be real...but they are.

These drums were at the kids' playground. Enjoy the music!

A Beautiful Sunday

2009-03-01T17:41:00.003-05:00

Hope a picture's worth a thousand words!

The Birthday Boys

2009-02-12T22:09:00.004-05:00

Every year these two boys celebrate birthdays very close together in February. This year their birthdays seem very special because both of them are taking very big steps into new and exciting futures.
On the 17th Christopher will be 13. Thirteen!!! Grandmother does not like the "teen" part of that number. But time waits for no man, they say; and Christopher is very excited about reaching this milestone. He will always be the precious little fellow in this picture to us.
This is his school picture this fall; I don't know how to make a scanned image larger, but, believe me, Christopher is LARGER.
On the 20th Cole will be 5.. Five!!! I still want to put him in the toddler category, and there is no way I can justify that. I want him to still be sitting in the high chair. Kindergarten calls; he already knows so much and simply amazes us all. Happy Birthday, buddy.
This is Cole's school picture from this past fall.
Much as we would love to keep them little, we really thank God for blessing them both with good health, curiosity, and sweet, sweet spirits. Let the celebrations begin!!!

Enjoying the Family

2009-01-06T23:56:00.010-05:00

It is always a treat when we get to be with family members that we do not get to see very often. My niece, Amy, and her family from Nashville, TN, and my nephew Tom, with his family from Damascus, MD came down with my sister from Chattanooga to spend one day with us after Christmas. The picture above is Mother with my nephew, Tom, and his family. Below you see Grandmother Bessie with all of her grandchildren and four others of her eight great grandchildren. Christopher had left to go to basketball practice and little Oren missed this photo- op. Oren loved everybody!! Here he is getting to know my great-nephew Kirk.

Oren is a very patient, adaptable young man as you can see here.

On New Year's Eve, Oren did a little celebrating with "MissVesta", a favorite loved by all our children and grandchildren. His big brother, Cole, really fell in love with Vesta and crushed me by calling Vesta, not me, later in the evening to tell her about seeing fireworks and deer on his way home.

Best part of holidays....being with those you love.l

Simply Having a Wonderful Christmastime

2008-12-26T23:35:00.005-05:00

I downloaded these photos in no particular order...they are as chaotic and happy as were our Christmas moments. She was supposed to look so angelic in this picture, but she obviously had other ideas.

Oren has been given wheels....look out world, there's no stopping him now.

Christopher was totally surprised when he unwrapped a Wii. He really did not expect that and spent the rest of the day playing with it. He has so much fun that we all want one now.

Don't know if he burped, spit, or tooted to get this reaction from Aunt Alice. He looks somewhat surprised himself.

Most of Madison's Christmas was PINK!

The picture above is Cole on Christmas afternoon. Looks like he has been playing the guitar for years though he just received it that morning. He was strumming and singing "Go Tell it on the Mountain". Grandmother knows he is talented!

I believe Madison would have been totally content with just this one gift...a music box with a dancing ballerina from Great Grandmother Bessie. The book with the big eyes was a gift from Cole who took great joy for several days before Christmas in wrapping "found" items around the house and putting them under the tree. He was a great joy this Christmas.

Madison and I enjoyed a trip to Callaway Gardens to see the Christmas lights with Charlotte, the Nobles and the Kings. Chris was our chauffeur as we took an Arlington school bus on the trip. Madison and the other children loved riding a bus.

Madison, Allie, Avery, Ethan and Nina

Christmas Eve...the excitement was beginning to grow! We know we are very blessed and are looking forward to 2009 with joy. God's blessing on all of you!!!

Cole's Pre-K Christmas Program

2008-12-26T09:35:00.002-05:00

My photos came up in reverse order. Cole was a shepherd in the nativity scene at his Pre-K Christmas program. He seemed somewhat apprehensive at first as you can tell in the last photo, but a sweet visit from Daddy did the trick. His class returned in their snowmen shirts to perform at the end of the program. Cole likes to sing and got a guitar for Christmas that he seems interested in really learning how play correctly. A star may be born!

Christmas is coming...

2008-12-07T21:02:00.008-05:00

The busy time of the year is definitely here...the days seem to fly by, and I seldom seem to accomplish what I plan to on any given day. Christopher is now playing basketball, and grandmothers don't want to miss any games. We don't get many pictures of Christopher these days; and I don't know if you can tell it from this photo, but he is growing what seems to be a couple of inches a day. Can't believe that in a couple of weeks, seventh grade will be half over. ( I thought I might should edit this and say Christopher is the player facing us, and it is his shot that is up in the basket.) Thanksgiving weekend was wonderful. As you see, we had an Indian at our feast. Cole and Big Al were in a frantic race to see who could finish their puzzle first while we watched the Macy's parade. Andy had to work during the day, but we were all here for the evening meal. We used to have a tradition of going to a movie on Thanksgiving night, but babies (and, this year, a lack of good movies) have set that aside for now. Alice, Craig, Andy, Cole, Al and I did enjoy Polar Express on DVD.

Baby Oren is a joy. He is wonderfully happy baby. His smile is lighting up our lives. I think his cousin's hair is going to be a big temptation for quite a while.

Later in the week Madison met the Pink Pig for the first time. She had talked about going to ride the pig for days even though she had no idea what that meant. She loved the ride and wants to go back. She wore her new pink Christmas dress Elizabeth made for the occasion.

She really likes this man!! I love this picture.

I know the days between now and Christmas are going to only get busier!! I know I'll have more grandchildren pictures I will want to post later. Enjoy your preparations also!

Keeping the "Thanks" in Thanksgiving

2008-11-24T09:51:00.002-05:00

Family and friends know I have to get up on my soapbox every fall lately to complain about Thanksgiving Day receiving less and less of our attention. Halloween has become an unbelievable season. I could not imagine the money that must have been spent on Halloween yard decor this year. The push to have everything ready for Christmas comes earlier and earlier each year. Is Thanksgiving too simple?? I love the simplicity of family, food, and saying Thank You. The good Lord decorates for us with his magnicent gift of the autumn and early winter colors all around us. Turkey is one of the least expensive main courses the grocer has to sell. And saying "Thank You"...requires only a humble heart.

We sang "We Gather Together" at church yesterday morning. Love it, love it. Plan to sing it to myself all week. Yes, family, I will only sing it "to myself".

We gather together to ask the Lord’s blessing;

He chastens and hastens His will to make known.

The wicked oppressing now cease from distressing.

Sing praises to His Name; He forgets not His own.

Beside us to guide us, our God with us joining,

Ordaining, maintaining His kingdom divine;

So from the beginning the fight we were winning;

Lord Thine be all the glory, the victory is thine.

We all do extol Thee, Thou God of the nations

And pray that Thou still our Defender will be.

Let Thy congregation escape tribulation;

Be Thou forever praised, Thou God of the free.

Wishing a Happy, Happy Thanksgiving to all of you.

Even though I have no geese...

2008-11-06T08:35:00.004-05:00

This morning the trees in our back yard were suddenly showing their bones. Sorry, Christopher, here it comes.

Something told the wild geese
It was time to go,
Though the fields lay golden
Something whispered, "snow".

Leaves were green and stirring,
Berries, luster-glossed,
But beneath warm feathers
Something cautioned, "frost".

All the sagging orchards
Steamed with amber spices,
But each wild breast stiffened
At remembered ice.

Something told the wild geese
It was time to fly,
Summer sun was on their wings,
Winter in their cry.

Thanks to Rachel Field

Drama (queen) in the ER

2008-10-20T10:44:00.002-04:00

After a busy day with Grandmother Bessie's birthday party, Elizabeth and Madison ended the evening with a visit to the ER. Madison needed 3 stitches after Christopher (and I have not heard his version of this story yet) pulled a metal measuring tape out of her hand.
She enjoyed all the drama of the ER, getting extra pillows, blankets, compliments on her beauty and her Ariel nightie UNTIL the shot to numb her finger. Probably most of you heard her last night, but just didn't know from whence that cry of terror was coming.
Elizabeth says she is fine this morning. They really bandaged her entire hand, but she is being good and leaving it alone.
It's always surprising how much smaller and younger they always seem on an examing table.

A Most Moving Book

2008-10-05T20:32:00.006-04:00

I am rereading this wonderful story after only finishing it a few weeks ago; I just didn't want the experience to end. I also wanted to really set all the characters firmly in my mind so they will be my friends forever. Yes, I think it is that good. (Nancy Jo, DO NOT BUY IT!)

The setting of the book is London and the Guernsey Islands immediately after World War II. The format of the book is letters, and it makes you long for the days when you might go to the mailbox and receive a long, newsy letter from family or friend. The format also makes it the perfect book to have nearby when you only have a few moments for reading

This book simply but exquisitly details the daily life of people who were living under German occupation during the war.. .the daily life of people who were incredibly brave and also terribly angry and sad. There are moments that make you laugh out loud and moments that move you to the bone.

I'll only tell one. A fisherman who had become a member of the literary society is writing an introductory letter to Juliet, whom I suppose you would call the main character. The war is over and he is telling her of the hardships faced during the occupation. He has just written about hard labor, boredom, starvation; but, suddenly, he reveals what hurt him most. He says, " My grandson, Eli, was evacuated to England when he was seven. He is home now-twleve years old, and tall --but I will never forgive the Germans for making me miss his growing up years." That got me where I live.

The joy of reading is a constant motif in the book. People who had never read for pleasure nor never expected to suddently have to ...for the sake of their lives. The joy and comfort they receive from books is fascinating.

I really think everyone would enjoy this book, but it is a Must for those of you who find life during World War II fascinating.

A Most Happy Fellow

2008-09-28T19:42:00.004-04:00

Oren is growing and developing his own precious personality. Here is one of his happy moments.

Afternoon at the Fair

2008-09-22T08:38:00.002-04:00

I love this picture! What fun to be 3 and 4 and really feel like you are tearing up the highway on your motorcyle. The county fair opened last Thursday night, and that is always a busy time for Al and me. The Kiwanis club Al belongs to puts on this fair, and it is truly a great affair. Al worked the gates Friday night, Saturday night, and all afternoon and evening yesterday. My club has a food booth; I worked Saturday afternoon and will again next Saturday night. Elizabeth and Calvin took Christopher and Madison on Saturday, but both Elizabeth's and my camera went on the blink within five minutes of starting the activities. I took Madison back yesterday afternoon to walk around with Andy and Cole. The weather was perfect, and it was not very crowded. If you live in the area, try the fair. It is remarkably clean, well-organized, and family friendly.

He will be 16 before you know it and on our local highways!
Such a good dad and uncle!!

Love this time of year!! It is actually cool this morning. It's time to start reciting fall poetry to Christopher.

#4 is Now # 22

2008-09-12T10:22:00.002-04:00

Christopher is now sporting a new number. We are very proud of him for he is really working hard. He is playing both offense and defense and was on the field 90% of the game last night. He is in the middle in the picture above.
They won, by the way!!!

Caleb's t-shirt must be interesting!!

Football is Back!!

2008-09-12T09:45:00.004-04:00

This picture of Christopher in uniform was scanned into the computer, and I don't know the technique for downloading it without a lot of white space. Christopher has grown so much since this time last fall.
We are all excited about the season this year; being a year older and a seventh grader now, Christopher is playing so much more. Also, the football facilities at ACS are just getting better and better; it really feels like FOOTBALL.
I put the picture above in because I am just fascinated by all the "things" sticking out of Christopher (#4) 's helmet.
Hey, kids, the game is in the other direction!!
Cole and Madison know the best part of a ballgame. Cole also loved counting all the planes that went over during the game. Arlington's football field lies right under the flying pattern into the Atlanta airport.

MY tomatoes!!!

2008-08-25T22:26:00.003-04:00

All these years I have longed for a window sill lined with my own home-grown tomatoes. Longed to have something that looks like a picture in "Southern Living", etc. That just seemed to be the epitome of a successful woman. I longed, but I never followed up the longing with action. I might put out a plant once every ten years or so, but I usually let them dry up, become rotten or be eaten by bugs. This year I decided I could do it. One afternoon in May, Cole came home with me from one of his t-ball games and helped me put out four plants just minutes before it began to rain. I couldn't let those plants not succeed. Even though he is surrounded by very successful gardening at home, he seems pleased when he checks on our four little plants and finds them thriving. Madison enjoys "picking" and has even learned not to pick one until it is the shade of red Grandmother wants.

One frustration about my house has always been my narrow little window sills. I wish every Christmas that I had wide sills that would easily hold Christmas candles in every window; but, at least, I find now they are perfect size for the pretty little grape tomatoes. Tomatoes in the window...a small accomplishment, but it's mine!

Oldest to Youngest

2008-08-21T22:50:00.005-04:00

I have to confess that when I took this picture , I promised Christopher that no one would see it. He hates to have his picture made, but his mother and I convinced him he must follow the tradition of making pictures on the first day of school. Hope he would forgive me for breaking my promise. He is in the seventh grade and look at the size of those shoes. (men's size 10) He will be riding to school this year with his Aunt Alice who is now teaching at Arlington; I'll love the extra time in the mornings to drink coffee, but oh, I'll miss the conversation.
Now, to the youngest grandson...Oren. He is so sweet, smiling now and cooing. Do you think we need to tell him how stripes affect the way your tummy looks in pictures??

Hope the other two grandchildren don't mind missing out on this posting. I assure you they are probably too busy to care.

Just read a good book loaned to me by my friend, Sheryl; "The Art of Racing in the Rain". It is narrated by a dog with a big, big heart. Also enjoyed "The Angels of Morgan Hill". When I first began reading this one, I thought it was going to be very lightweight, but soon discovered it to be very moving and convicting.

Mother is still at the Newnan Rehabilitation Center so I am doing more running back and forth than reading these days. We hope she will be able to return to her retirement center soon, but she needs to get a little stronger.

Love to everyone.

Our amazing mother

2008-07-28T21:44:00.002-04:00

After coming through her eye surgery with flying colors, Mother had the misfortune to take a tumble in the dining room last Thursday. She suffered a small fracture in her hip and had surgery on Friday. Physical therapists have already had her up and walking...they are amazed at how well she is doing. I think it has something to do with the fact that she goes out every evening at 7:00 sharp and walks the circumference of the retirement center several times. She is in amazing condition for someone planning to celebrate their 103rd birthday in October.

She will be going to a local rehabilitation center for a few weeks, but I really believe she will be able to return to her apartment soon. We covet your prayers for that.

Class of '22

2008-07-17T13:59:00.004-04:00

Cole's Daddy graduates tonight!!! The gold ribbon around Cole's neck is holding a medal representing Daddy's great academic achievement. Way to go Andy!!! It won't be long until all the grandchildren will be wearing their own mortar boards.."backward, turn backward, O Time in your flight! "
Shhh!! Please, don't anyone tell her she is not a princess. Snow White is her favorite at the moment.
What do you suppose he is ready to tell us?? This is not the only picture we have where his hands are so expressive..he'll talk with them for sure.

I think Ashley Park was buillt for grandmothers with cameras. Christopher is getting so tall we can't get him all in one shot.

I don't have a picture of Mother to post, but I want to let all of you who know her know that her eye surgery was a great succes. She is enjoying seeing so many things that she had not seen in so long...eyes in picture, colors, etc. All your prayers are on her behalf are so appreciated.

Lazy Days of Summer

2008-07-04T21:33:00.003-04:00

We have no big trips planned this summer but are enjoying summer as the slow, lazy season it should be. Some of us are just...

"chillin"
"coloring"
"eating at Steak N Shake"
and "loving our aunt and uncle's pool"

Oren is a precious baby. Don't you love the 70's tie-dyed onesie! We are so happy to have him added to the family.

Notice how beautifully Cole is coloring within the lines. He is so patient and will work on a picture for a very long time. He is growing up so fast.

I promise we did not run all the other customers out of Steak N Shake, just hit it at a quiet moment. Just like her Uncle Andy 35 years ago in St. Louis, Madison especially loves the cherries on the top of her milkshake.

Christopher and Madison are having lots of brother-sister time this summer. Christopher is great with helping her have fun in the pool...but they do have their moments of having their fill of each other.

Hope all of you are having a great , lazy summer also.

Dear Oren, Welcome to Planet Earth

2008-06-19T13:42:00.005-04:00

Oren Andrew

June 16, 2008

7lbs. 5 oz.

Beautiful and Brilliant

What a great "day after Father's Day" present!

Our 2 day old grandson meets his 102 year-old great-grandmother. They both amaze us and have so much to teach all of us.

A busy Springtime for Cole

2008-06-07T20:59:00.002-04:00

One of Cole's activities this past school year has been singing in the choir for 3-year-olds. This picture was taken among the church columns after his performance a few Sunday nights ago. I love this particular picture. On the same evening we attempted to get a good little family picture before baby brother arrives. You can see the love he already has for his brother.
All the grandparents had great fun watching T-ball games. Look at that swing!!
Made it to first and he's heading for second. What a base runner!!
I had to leave his final game in a rush so did not get a great picture of his FIRST TROPHY. He is understandably very proud of it. We are very proud of him.

A good, good man

2008-05-26T17:36:00.004-04:00

Our family will always treasure memories of Mike Justice and the love he gave to his family and friends. He set a wonderful example as a husband, father, and grandfather. Charlotte, Mandy and Mark, Ethan and Nina, Courtney and Landon, and little Hunter on the way...we love you. You will continue to be in our hearts and prayers.

"And God shall wipe away every tear from their eyes...Revelation 21:3

"And He who sat on the throne said, Behold, I make all things new...Revelation 21:5

Her First Book Club

2008-05-16T13:23:00.002-04:00

"They have to be carefully taught..."

2008-05-10T20:40:00.005-04:00

I was reminded recently of the lovely line from Lois Lowry's children's novel, Number the Stars. As the forces of Hitler terrorize Denmark, a little girl begs every night for stories about kings and queens. Lowry says, "The whole world had changed, only the fairy tales remained the same". I remembered how that line kept going through my head on 9/11 and for several days afterwards. I remember sitting and reading to the elementary students in the library that day. They did not know the horror that would change us all forever; we did not want them to learn it from us...that task belonged rightfully to their parents. I wish I could remember what I did read to them that day, but I do not. I think I just tried to lose myself in the same fairy tale I was trying to use as a shelter for them.

In the preface to The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe, C.S. Lewis says in his dedication to his goddaughter, Lucy Barfield: "I wrote this story for you, but...you are already too old for fairy tales, and by the time it is printed and bound you will be older still. But some day you will be old enough to start reading fairy tales again." Someday you will be old enough..

Your lives with young children are so busy. My prayer for each of you is that you have time to tell the old stories, read the old stories to your children. Please don't leave it up to the CD player or a stuffed animal with some kind of chip in his body. Who knows when the world will change again...only the fairy tales remain the same.

More important than fairy tales...give them the eternal strength of the Bible stories...baby Moses; Shadrach, Mechach, and Abednego, David...and Jesus, in the manger, on the Mount, in the fishing boat, on the cross.

I read once about a Chinese Christian who had memorized as many scriptures as he possible could. He said he wanted them as a cover for his head as the rain pounded down on his earthly tent.

We remember the things repeated often to us as children. With all the "things" we joyfully and fortunately can give our children today, don't forget important "things for the mind and soul".

"They have to be carefully taught." (from South Pacific)

"About the woodlands I will go..."

2008-04-17T21:43:00.004-04:00

The cherry trees, the dogwoods, the pears, all the trees have been so wonderful this spring. One of the poems I memorized years ago comes back to add a special touch to my springtime days every year. When blossoms begin to line Roscoe Road all the way to Arlington, Christopher begins to cringe for he knows Grandma is going to start reciting Housman. I tell him he will be glad someday when he is an old man and springtime brings Housman's beautiful words from somewhere deep in his memory. He is not convinced; he's sure it is just another "crazy Grandma thing". I didn't know until today that Housman taught Latin !! Maybe I knew at twenty that we had a love of words in common.

This is the second poem in Alfred Edward Housman's collection "A Shropshire Lad".

Loveliest of trees, the cherry now
Is hung with bloom along the bough,
And stands about the woodland ride
Wearing white for Eastertide.

Now, of my threescore years and ten,
Twenty will not come again,
And take from seventy springs a score,
It only leaves me fifty more.

And since to look at things in bloom,
Fifty springs are little room,
About the woodland I will go
To see the cherry hung with snow.

I did not take this photograph; it is from Google Images. I liked it because the location of the dogwood trees around a cemetary really gives emphasis to the message of the poem; time is short; absorb every beautiful moment. Come fall, we will have to talk about "Something told the wild geese it was time to go." I can be a thorn in the side of my grandson every season.

Spring is in the Air

2008-03-27T20:59:00.003-04:00

An early Easter has everyone in the mood for spring. This picture of Madison is a jewel for a grandmother who loves fairy tales and children's stories. Looks like all her Easter candy would melt in her mouth doesn't it....We actually have to say "pretty is as pretty does" to her rather often. Look at those twinkling eyes. She is full of fun and ready to rule the family..or maybe even the world. Cole is playing tee-ball; seems like only yesterday that his daddy was the one we were watching play ball at the very same rec center. He really hits the ball quite well, and I think he is really having a good time.
Christopher is taking a break from athletics this spring. He was not interested in having his picture made when Madison was having hers done, but we had to capture the brown eyes and pink shirt. Hope he never sees this blog!
Everything I have read lately has just been light and frivolous. I picked up a John Grisham at a book sale, The Innocent Man, that I think I will tackle next. Some Grisham I like and some I don't.

Take a book and glass of tea outside and enjoy the springtime!

Thumbs up for Horton

2008-03-23T18:28:00.002-04:00

I have come to realize that I will never really be totally happy with any movie made from a children's book in which there are any scenes that do not look exactly like the illustrations in the original book or in which there are any words uttered that are not in the original. Trouble is...I know...who would pay $6.00 for a ticket to a 10 minute movie? I know they have to do some padding and stretching.

All things considered, Horton Hears the Who is a very good movie based on a children's book. I was especially glad that Horton was as gentle and sweet as in the book and that his appearance and coloring were true to the illustrations. The scene where he has to hunt for the fuzz ball in a field full of identical flowers is wonderful!

There is nothing offensive in the movie; no attempt to make jokes only understood by the parents. Yes, take your little ones.

"An elephant's faithful - one hundred percent."

2008-03-11T06:18:00.005-04:00

I love Horton the elephant created by Dr. Seuss! He is humble, gentle, and, of course, faithful. I have no doubt I read both of these books shown here to you young ladies who attended ACS. So, I am excited and apprehensive about the movie opening this Friday based on Horton Hears a Who.
The spots I have seen on TV and an interview with Jim Carey on The Today Show have been encouraging. Film version of How the Grinch Stole Christmas was so-so; the previews of The Cat in the Hat looked so horrid that I did not go to see it.
Horton Hatches the Egg is probably my favorite of the two books. Within a couple of minutes the kindergarteners could finish the phrase " I meant what I said and I......." before I could finish reading it. And, what was most important, when asked after the story, they exhibited a good understanding of the concept "faithful".

Dr. Seuss's early readers such as Cat in the Hat and Green Eggs and Ham are wonderful and make early reading such fun for children. However, the real heart of Seuss is found in his story books, the ones parents read to the child. I could not quickly find my copy this morning, but there is a good little book titled The Gospel according to Dr. Seuss (or something very similar). It is fascinating how many Biblical truths can be found in these simple stories. (parables ???)

This is a movie based on a childrens' book that I am going to try. I'll play movie critic for you afterwards.

February Fun

2008-02-22T11:02:00.002-05:00

We decided to go to the mountains yesterday while Christopher was out on Winter Break. It really turned out to be fun one day trip. We had a wonderful guide through the old gold mine...good to be underground on a rainy day.
Christopher has already panned for gold and is now collecting gem stones. It was a little cold for playing in the water yesterday; I was so glad they had the warm air hand driers in the ladies' room.
After a wonderful lunch at the Smith House, we headed for Cleveland and Babyland General Hospital. There was no coaxing Madison to look at the camera; she did not want to take her eyes off of the babies. She got a Cabbagepatch NewBorn for Christmas so yesterday she got "Violet" pampers and some new clothes.

Cole is 4!!! His big party is yet to be, but we celebrated on Sunday with Christopher who was 12 that day. I could not get the picture of Christopher with his cake to upload...will try later.

My Funny Valentines

2008-02-16T10:02:00.002-05:00

Sweet Reading

2008-02-13T13:56:00.004-05:00

I am late thinking about Valentine's Day thanks to a visit from some horrid "bug" for the last few days. Valentine's is not one of the holidays that features wonderful children's books; in fact, many of them are just fluff added to some cartoon creature such as SpongeBob, etc. So, you say, why am I showing an Arthur book? Marc Brown wrote this book in 1988...20 years ago!! The original Arthur books are so much better than much of what has been published featuring Arthur since he became a "TV star". In Arthur's Valentine, he is agonizing over valentines he is receiving from a secret admirer. The original Arthur suffered from an extreme lack of self confidence so he had no idea how to deal with any "romantic" situation.
The next is probably my favorite. Written by Eve Bunting and illustrated by Jan Brett, it has to be good. This precious bear couple are hibernating, but sentimental Mrs. Bear has set the alarm clock to February 14. She becomes very frustrated when she cannot waken Mr. Bear so she can give him the cards she has made. Mr. Bear eventually surprises her; they spend the day eating honey and candied bugs, and go back to sleep until spring. If you haven't read a Junie B. Jones book, do so. She is quite a girl; you laugh with her; and, at the same time, know you probably should be putting her in time out.
I hope you all have wonderful day tomorrow. Can never be too much love going around.

Cole and the Snow of 2008

2008-01-27T14:38:00.000-05:00

What a treat the snow last weekend was for all of us. I know all our friends from snow country wonder why all our snowmen are dirty and why there is no snow left in most yards after the snow men are built. We don't get to do this often.
Hoping for a little more snow this winter!

Snow in Georgia...It's a big deal!!!

2008-01-21T08:32:00.000-05:00

I have to admit that I had a nagging fear inside that we have had enough climate change that we would never get to have snow in Georgia again. What a wonderful treat to have it twice in one week! Big, fat, wet flakes! As you can tell from our driveway and walk, we got the beauty without the problems.
"Whose woods these are, I think I know..." Frost
We think beauty; the "almost 12" year-old thinks snow-ball fight.
Trust me, everyone tried to keep her hood over her head. Maybe with all her curls, the head stays warm.

I will add a picture of Cole as soon as his dad can e-mail me one.

It's Martin Luther King day...what's your "dream"?

Merry Christmas to All

2007-12-22T09:02:00.000-05:00

This picture of Cole was made at the retirement home where Grandmother Bessie lives.
Yet again, I cannot find a picture of Christopher alone. He really does not like to have his picture made at all.
Santa visited Grandmother's Bessie's residence last week. It took an hour to get Maddie this close to him. She never agreed to sit on his lap.

I love this poem. It is by Alice Low...I hope she would forgive me for posting it here without copyright permission. May you all get or give a book for Christmas

A MERRY LITERARY CHRISTMAS

When Christmas shopping time draws nigh,

And I am faced with gifts to buy,

I think about one relative

Who always had one gift to give.

Year after year her present came

And every year it was the same.

While other gifts were round and fat,

(Their secrets hidden) hers was flat,

Rectangular, the corners square,

I knew exactly what was there

I'd pass it on without a look -

My aunt had sent another book!

I'd only open it to write

A "thank you" that was too polite,

But every year when Christmas went

I'd read the book my aunt had sent.

And looking back, I realize

Each gift was treasure in disguise.

So now it s time to write her here

A thank-you note that is sincere.

So-thanks for Alice and Sara Crewe,

For Christopher Robin and Piglet and Pooh,

For Little Nell and William Tell

And Peter and Wendy and Tinker Bell.

Thanks for Tom and Jim and Huck,

For Robinson Crusoe and Dab-Dab the duck,

For Meg and Jo and Johnny Crow

And Papa Geppetto's Pinocchio.

For Mary Poppins and Rat and Toad,

King Arthur and Dorothy's Yellow Brick Road,

For Kipling's Kim and tales from Grimm,

And Ferdinand, Babar, and Tiny Tim.

I loved them all, I'm glad I met them.

They're with me still, I won't forget them,

So I'll give books on Christmas Day

Though I know what all my nieces say-

I know it from the way they write

A "thank-you" that is too polite.

If You're Missing Baby Jesus...

2007-11-24T10:38:00.001-05:00

Good books and the time to read them are gifts that bring pleasure all year long. Several years ago I happened to pick up a little book titled, "If You're Missing Baby Jesus". After spending the first half of my life assuring everyone that I did not neccessarily think Jesus was born on what we celebrate as Christmas Day, what fun it is to just relax about that and rejoice in celebrating Jesus any day and every day...even on Dec. 25. This little book will help you do that. What an intriguing title, If You're Missing Baby Jesus.

"Angela and the Baby Jesus" is a new book out this fall. I have to confess to standing and reading it in Barnes and Noble one day recently. I didn't buy it; but I did like it. It is written by Frank McCourt who wrote "Angela's Ashes". It is the story of a precious girl who did not want the Baby Jesus to be cold.

Another favorite little Christmas book I love is "Giovanni's Light"; I would love to live in the little town in which the story is set. This is a book more for grown-ups.

Kate DiCamillo who wrote "Because of Winn Dixie and the Tale of Desperaux" has a new Christmas book for children out this year. It is "Great Joy", and as I stood and read it in the bookstore I thought Great Joy was the perfect title. Yes, an old librarian/English teacher knows you underline book titles and put quotes around short stories, etc.; but, the underline icon is not on this toolbar, and I am afraid to go looking for it and lose my entire blog.

Two non-Christmas books I have really enjoyed recently are "Water for Elephants" and "River Jordan".

Christmas is coming; I must get busy doing something other than read or blog. enjoy your Christmas preparations.

Mr. Potato Head

2007-11-14T08:47:00.001-05:00

Everyone is busy this Christmas thinking about toys...especially safe toys. Many are beginning to think back to the toys of their childhood. Mr. Potato Head has been a favorite for years; I hope there is no lead in his paint!! I got this one for the grandchildren to play with at Easter, and he and his family were the centerpiece of our table. Doesn't Madison look angelic in the first picture?? Watch the video below to see her reaction when Mr. Potato Head doesn't do just what she wants him to do.

Zeus

2007-11-07T19:45:00.000-05:00

Christopher did not dress up for Halloween, but he is ready for Kathy's social study class tomorrow morning. Thought I'd put pictures online in case his outfit does not stay intact until class time. He is enjoying school so very much this year.

Trick or Treat

2007-11-01T22:18:00.001-04:00

Our favorite pirate!!

It was fun trick or treating at the retirement center where Mother lives. Madison did not know what to think of the big bathing beauty behind her. Like all the little ones, she loves great-grandmother's walker.

Halloween on the Square

2007-11-01T20:45:00.000-04:00

In spite of all the rapid growth Newnan is experiencing, it still can have a wonderful small town feel at times. This was especially true on Halloween as hundreds of toddlers hit the streets to trick or treat.
We were glad to accept candy from the witch but would not look at her or acknowledge her in any way.
As the morning went on, Madison became more and more comfortable saying "trick or treat" and had quite a conversation with this storekeeper.
Snow White is Madison's favorite "pincess" , and she spotted this lovely lady from quite a distance. Wind in her face kept us from getting many pictures where she faced the camera. Let us assure you, she was happy at this moment.
Yes, even princesses get weary and need the comfort of a "paci".

Nothing Like a Bonfire!!

2007-10-28T21:44:00.000-04:00

I've posted three blogs tonight for I cannot seem to every upload more than five pictures at a time. I did want to post one photo that really showed some of the wonderful fire. Andy and Karen have done a great job with the firepit...with their entire lawn.

Pre-Halloween Fun

2007-10-28T21:33:00.001-04:00

Aunt Alice decorates for Halloween in a big way so some of us went over Saturday night to get an early peek at all the fun decor. Madison wore her Halloween garb early also; she loves being a princess.
Spooky noises emanate from many of Alice's haunted houses, but they didn't scare the princess.

We went from Aunt Alice's to Uncle Andy's where a wonderful fire was going in their pretty fire pit. Cole is a big boy now and knows how to behave around the fire. As you can see, someone's hand had to be on Madison at all times.
Looks like Christopher is ready to eat fire, doesn't it. Lots of fun on a Saturday night.

Fall Fun

2007-10-28T21:15:00.000-04:00

The new center of attention at family gatherings these days is Rhett, Alice and Craig's new Brittany Spaniel. They rescued his mother, Chloe, on Easter morning as she appeared to have been dumped along the side of the road. They helped find a good home for her, and they now are the owners of one of her puppies.
Here's Uncle Craig with the neice and nephews and, of course, Rhett.
Mother was 102 on October 16. Grandsons were disappointed that we did not put 102 candles on the cake.

A big thank you to everyone who blessed Mother on her birthday.

2 Juvenile Novels Adults Will Love

2007-10-10T21:09:00.000-04:00

Bridge to Terabithia has been one of my favorite novels for years. I have refused to see the movie for I have my own ideas about what Leslie and Jesse saw in Terabithia, and I don't want those images shaken. You know there are always two people sharing ownership of every book or story. .the writer or storyteller and the reader or listener. I believe that is why children at very young ages say, "No, that's not the way it goes." when someone reading them a story decides to leave a few words out, rush the story along, etc. Our grandson just finished reading Bridge to Terabithia for school. He had seen the movie, knew to expect the ending, but became very unhappy with Grandmother when she "teared up" at some of the heartbreaking beauty of the prose. I soon realized that was all a bit of bravado on his part. Paterson's words had more power than Hollywood's visuals.

What is often referred to as pre-adolescent literature often offers adults as much pleasure and imaginative reading as it does young people. A few weeks ago while working in the ACS library, I picked up this novel to read. I loved it. Imagine children named Comfort, Merry, Tidings, and Peach (a cousin). Comfort's family runs the town's funeral parlor, and death is an accepted part of their everyday lives. It is absolutely not accepted by Cousin Peach so when he comes to town for a dear relative's funeral, he has much to learn from Comfort and from the beloved family dog, Dismay. Read it first and then decide if this might be just the book to help your child be prepared for many of the uncertainties of life.

Browse the shelves at libraries and bookstores aimed at the pre-adolescent reader...good reading there.

Enjoy whatever you are reading today!!!

"Meet me at the fair"

2007-09-29T22:32:00.000-04:00

Christopher is up here in the sky somewhere!

Our county fair always makes me want to sing "Meet Me in St. Louis...meet me at the fair."

I did not get great pictures because everything goes so fast, and no one wanted to take time to have their picture made.

The Stars in my Universe

2007-09-16T20:32:00.001-04:00

Thought it was about time to update photos of the grandchildren. Did you know even princesses brush their teeth? Elizabeth put little plastic princesses on Madison's birthday cake in April, and she has loved "pincesses" ever since.
The truth is out...you never outgrow playing in a good box. Cole came over this afternoon and gave us all great pleasure watching him play "Cole-in-the-box. He is a precious boy.
I can never get a picture of Christopher's face on the field. He is #4. Grandmother does not think those arms look strong enough for football. He is loving it and giving it his all.
Just had to throw this extra shot of Madison in because she just looks so happy.

They are wonderful children...3 unique personalities.

2007-08-27T20:40:00.000-04:00

One of my favorite book series of the last few years is Alexander McCall Smith's group of light novels about sweet Mma Precious Ramotswe and her detective agency. Set in Botswana, a place so far removed from my space in this world, these stories seem so real and the people seem so dear. Precious is someone I would love to have as a friend, someone I would love to drink tea with and share the events of the day.
There are seven or eight (Amazon.com can tell you exactly how many) books in the series with wonderful names like TEARS OF THE GIRAFFE and IN THE COMPANY OF CHEERFUL LADIES. There is a new book out this summer...I'm finding it hard to wait for the paperback.
No great drama here, just gentle reading...perfect for these last summer days.
Whatever you are reading today, enjoy!

Three Special People

2007-08-13T07:47:00.001-04:00

I still don't know the answer, but photos uploaded with no problem this morning.
Cole is working hard to create a castle with Grandma's few blocks. I promised him I would get more this week. He has such a great imagination; it is a joy to watch him play.
The other picture is our official "first day back to school" photo for the 6th grade for Christopher. I didn't manage to get one where he was looking at the camera, but I think this one does show the joy these two children get from being brother and sister.
Our heat wave continues; let's pray for those who have to work outside.

Help!!

2007-08-12T21:17:00.003-04:00

I am back to not being able to upload photos again. Nothing I can find on their "Help" pages helps me. One day I just suddenly could not get photos to upload. The upload pages just seem to freeze. Has this happened to any of you? Any ideas?? I wonder if I have inadvertently hit something that has caused this problem.

Back to School

2007-08-06T21:39:00.000-04:00

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Even though temperatures are in the upper 90's, and it's three weeks until my "summer vacation" birthday, children are going back to school this week. I've thought a great deal today about the books I used in the library with the kindergarteners and first graders to assure them that they were not the only ones a little nervous about beginning school.

A favorite for years was Chrysanthemum by Kevin Henkes. A little mouse, Chryanthemum has always adored her name; and has been been told by her parents that she has the most beautiful name in the world. Sure enough, when she starts to school, prissy little girl mice (MEAN GIRLS)make fun of her name unmercifully. It takes an understanding teacher to help Chrysanthemum love her name again.

Then I met Sweet Briar, a skunk also dearly loved by her parents who thought she smelled sweeter than any flower in the woods. I don't have to tell you what happened when she went to school. She regained pride in who she was when her "special smell" drove away the wolf, and she saved all the young animals on the playground.

Probably my favorite little storybook student was also a character in a book by Kevin Henkes, Wemberley. Her book is Wemberley Worried. She worried about everything that could possibly go wrong at school. A fiesty grandmother and another little girl as worried as she helped Wemberley see that school would be great after all.

There are many titles out there on the subject of "back to school", "first day of school", etc. The right book read by the right teacher,librarian, or mother or dad is often the perfect way to help the little ones know that they are understood and that they are in a warm, safe place.

Happy Back to School Days to all your little ones.

It's Raining

2007-08-01T14:54:00.000-04:00

Any rainfall has been very precious in Georgia this summer. The photo doesn't show how hard it was raining as Madison enjoyed darting in and out the door. It was one of those "what goes on at Grandma's stays at Grandma's" moments.

This time it worked!

2007-07-31T21:28:00.000-04:00

Football???

2007-07-27T12:43:00.000-04:00

This is just a blurry cell-phone picture, but it seems so strange to see boys practicing football on the soccer field at ACS. Hope the program turns out to be highly successful.

Nancy and Harry

2007-07-23T11:55:00.000-04:00

Two movies are out this summer based on popular children's book series. Nancy Drew, of course, did not get even a small percentage of the attention given to Harry Potter. I saw the Nancy Drew movie and was somewhat disappointed. Hollywood moved her from her hometown to...where else?...Hollywood. When Nancy Drew was introduced in the 1930's there was no media hype. Probably, the word "media" was still only found in the glossary of Latin textbooks. She has endured over 75 years, will Harry?

I have not seen the new Harry Potter movie, and I have only read the first two books in the series. Reading the others is on my to-do list, but other things keeping bumping them down on the list.

I do have my own opinion as to the popularity of both series. Most of you could not tell me about many, if any, of the actual crimes Nancy solved; but I bet many of you remember George, Bess, and Ned. Years from now, how many adults will remember the magic tricks, villians, etc. from the Potter series? Many will, however, remember Hermione and Rod. Yes, I think the key to the popularity of both series is the power of friendship. I have avoided hearing about the ending of the new Potter book. I hope all 3 friends are still together!!

Mother

2007-07-15T21:08:00.001-04:00

This is a picture of my mother celebrating her 101st birthday. Mother has been blessed with good health, a fantastic mind, and loving friends and family. She will be 102 in October. Mother's hearing and vision are both losing strength, and that is a concern for her for she loves to read, do crossword puzzles, and is so faithful in sending get-well and birthday cards.

This blogspot is becoming my journal. I have often tried to start a journal but never stayed faithful. Somehow I am finding doing it this way easier. I wanted you to meet my mother, and I also wanted to have her in my journal.

My sister and I have been very blessed to have Mother with us this long. Blessings to all of your mothers!

A favorite puppy

2007-07-10T15:53:00.000-04:00

Christopher loved Spot (and this Spot adventure in particular) dearly when he was just a little younger than Madison is now. Suddenly she has begun to want this particular Spot book read over and over. She has a thing for ducks and the duck sound, "quack, quack"; and I really think that is one reason she loves the book. She claps her hands when the duck comes to the rescue. I like to think Christopher liked Spot because he is such a sweet puppy...you have to deduce that from the pictures; there is really not a lot of text.

Miss Madison at work

2007-07-01T20:58:00.000-04:00

Granddaddy made the yellow ("harvest gold" in the 70's) stove for Elizabeth when she was about Madison's age. Mandy Noble, you probably played with it, also. Laptops did not exist when you girls were little. Where has the time gone?

Where the Boys Are

2007-07-01T20:40:00.000-04:00

Christopher and I joined Andy, Karen, and Cole at the beach for a few days last week. We had a wonderful time. The 8 year age gap between the cousins did not seem to matter as they played in the ocean, the bay, and the pool. We had hoped the entire family could make the trip, but that just wasn't possible last week. I will have to post some pictures of Madison soon to make up for her absence in these.

Reconnecting with Katy No-Pocket

2007-06-18T11:59:00.000-04:00

I wanted something special for my grandson after he swallowed the penny last week; and, while browsing in Barnes and Noble, I spotted an old friend, Katy No-Pocket. This is a perfect book for a 3 year old boy, and I always found it to be quite successful with kindergarteners and first-graders, also. It has mother-child theme, wild animals, and all kinds of TOOLS. What more could a little one wish for? The artwork is by the well-known H.A. Rey, the creator of Curious George.

Share this one with your favorite little person of either gender.

The Adventures of a Penny

2007-06-05T20:40:00.000-04:00

You never know when you get up in the morning what the day might bring. Our 3-year-old grandson, Cole, swallowed a penny late yesterday afternoon. Unlike 85% of the country's swallowed coins, it did not go to the tummy but stuck half way down his esophagus. He, Mom and Dad spent the night at Eggleston Children's hospital in Atlanta; and a quick procedure this morning removed the penny. Cole is back to normal...his sweet, happy self, and all of the adults are wiped out from either being up with him or being at home wondering about him. He gets to go to the beach tomorrow, and I am sure this will soon be just a faint memory for the little fellow. Andy and Karen said he never shed a tear through the entire event. He is a wonderful little fellow.

The boys of summertime

2007-06-04T14:14:00.000-04:00

It gets more and more difficult to find a picture of Christopher all by himself.

Grandchildren

2007-06-03T17:02:00.000-04:00

We find it very difficult to catch three children in one snapshot...they are all on the move.

Decided to enter the "blogworld"

2007-06-03T16:07:00.000-04:00

I have enjoyed reading blogs...somewhat at random...and decided to set up my own. My title is the clue to my big interests. I love to read and love the grandchildren. Having been a school librarian, I have a special interest in children's literature and from time to time will post quotes from my favorites.