A few days ago, Mike and I went to Dolores' to get my pickup; Mike wanted new tires on it before Winter. Dolores and Cindy had been using it for a few weeks to get Cindy & Tiffany moved into their new home, haul things from one house to the other, and to take a few loads to the city dump; 'stuff' they had finally admitted they could live without.
Dolores & I excused ourselves to the patio to have a quick smoke and cup of coffee while Mike remained inside watching a news program. We chit-chatted for a few then Dolores said to me, "Dorothy, Mike is so thin I didn't recognize him when I answered the door". She hadn't seen him for a few weeks because I usually go to her house because it's just easier for her.
I was shocked into realizing that I had adapted to the changes Mike has gone through since his cancer diagnosis last January. When we got back to our home, I looked at him and remembered; this is not the man who always stood tall and erect, that stance of a man trained in the military. Instead I saw a little old man, stooped beyond his years; I remembered his trim & mostly fit body and saw the how the size 31 Levis that he had worn for years hung off his body like a too-big sack; I looked at the jacket he always wears too keep warm even though the furnace thermostat is set way higher than is comfortable for me; I saw his once thick hair, thinned and dried from radiation and chemo, his once pink skin sallow and colorless, his eyes sunken and darkly circled from the pain he feels every minute of every day. I longed to hear the deep melodious voice I loved so much, knowing it is forever silenced. I have adapted to this because he has a backbone of steel, never complaining, just accepting what is, is. I love him more because of his strength but it would be a lie to say anything other than it hurts to adapt.
Showing posts with label Family Stuff. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Family Stuff. Show all posts
Friday, November 4, 2011
Tuesday, December 16, 2008
Music, Music, Music
My daughter, Sandee, posted, on her blog Kitty Krazy, a couple of videos of Jim Reeves singing songs my kids learned to love in their very early years. This brought back memories of when the kids were very young and I would lure them to sleep with music.
I've always loved music, almost every type. I recall a great neighbor who would allow us to go into her side yard to swing on the only swing set in the neighborhood. I would often go there by myself, sit in that swing and sing at the top of my lungs for what seemed, hours. My young mind thought I was very good at it, my adult daughter, Sandee, who is indeed, very musically gifted, tells me I can't carry a tune in a bucket. Huh, what does she know anyway! Hehe. I sang (alto) in every choir I could during my school years, and at church in adulthood; even sang a solo performance of "Wouldn't It Be Loverly" in an original musical play while in my last year of Junior High School. Oh, yeah, and then there was the duet I did, with my friend Vash, of "Rye Whiskey" for a health class on alcohol consumption. Got an A+. So there, Miss Perfect Pitch, Sandee! (maybe it was the acting drunk, while singing?)
Back to the kids. They were young, we were at the upper end of poor, or maybe it was the lower end of middle class counting both of our incomes, so in the latter part of the Sixties, we bought a beautiful, state of the art RCA stereo console, built into a cabinet of solid walnut; no particle board in those days. It was a low profile, with modern sleek lines and was five feet wide. On either end was a large speaker connecting to the stereo components in the center which consisted of an AM/FM radio and a record changer which would play what was known as 45 singles or 78 albums. In addition, and what was so special about this particular stereo in those days, you could stack up to ten 45s or six 78s and listen to music for hours. With this awesome machine, I had no choice but to join the Columbia Record Club to save some money. I ordered Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, Andy Williams, Jim Reeves, Marty Robbins, Elvis, The Everly Brothers, Frankie Avalon, Connie Francis, Paul Anka, The Kingston Trio, Ricky Nelson, Eddy Arnold, Frankie Lane...the list could go on and on. My husband and I worked opposite shifts, 7-3:30 or 3:30-midnight. When he was on the swing shift, I would get the kids into bed, stack the stereo with albums, turn up the sound so they could hear from their beds; they would fall asleep, listening to all of these great artists. I swear, they knew the words to every song, on every album.
That stereo was with us for many years, bringing us the sounds of the forties, fifties, sixties, seventies and eighties. Sometime during the early Eighties, I bought a set of albums from the 1940's, a mixture of big bands, the Andrew Sisters, and other artists from those years. My kids literally wore those albums out. It tickled me pink that they would love music from that era so much. Oh, yes. That RCA stereo was one of the best investments we ever made, instilling a love of music with all four of my kids. They in turn have passed this love onto their own families.
Yes, indeed, music is medicine for the soul and life is good!
Saturday, August 16, 2008
August Sixteenth...In My Memories
August 16, 1916
Salt Lake city, Utah
On this day, 92 years ago, a wonderful human being came into this world. She was bright, beautiful and a joy to be around. Her life was difficult, her health was a constant battle but she rarely complained. She married, her senior year of high school, to a young farmer named Clyde. She worked hard as a farmer's wife, cooking, cleaning, running errands; all those tasks required by folks who feed the world. In her spare time she gave birth to eight children, five daughters and three sons. After being widowed at thirty-nine, these children, their children, and even their children, were the great love of her life. She loved unconditionally, she died unconditionally, surrounded by the family who loved her with the same intensity as was shown to each of them throughout her time in this world. At 10:30 AM on September 30, 1994, she opened her bright green eyes with a look of wonder as she sighed her final goodbye to those who loved her so much, and who miss her still, so many years later.
You are in our hearts forever, Mom. We love you and miss you!
HAPPY BIRTHDAY, MOM...HOPE YOU'RE HAVING ICE CREAM!
Tuesday, August 12, 2008
Friday, July 18, 2008
A Little Trip.......shopping
After a wonderful night's sleep on Saturday, MaryH and I got up to one of Bill's great breakfasts. Normally he cooks bacon, eggs, hash browns and toast; always Falls Brand bacon (the best anywhere) and the eggs and hash browns cooked to perfection. This fine Sunday morning we got home made biscuits and real (no mixes) sausage gravy along with the perfectly cooked eggs. It was delish! After lingering over coffee, freshly ground, and visiting for a while, MaryH headed for a quick shower so that I could give her a hair cut before it was my turn to perform my morning miracle on myself.
We finished dressing and headed for the Mall. I had to get the undies and socks, remember and thanks to an honest business owner, I had some cash burning a hole in my psyche, begging to be spent. We found a spot close to Penny's, went inside the Mall ready to spend a few hours. I was also looking for a dress for upcoming wedding of my Grandson so that's where we started.
The selection was plentiful and there were some that piqued my interest a little but I didn't want to make a rush decision, so we decided to look further, in other shops and department stores throughout the Mall.
I searched and looked and tried on at least 50 different dresses, learning that somewhere in time I must have become twice what I used to be, size-wise, that is. Me and thousands of other women, 'cuz the size I apparently needed was few and far between. After hours of this torture to my guilt button, and lying about how "cute" everything was, I cried out in frustration to MaryH. "Why is everything so damn butt ugly and made to fit a ten year old?" Mary H said, "Oh, I'm so glad you said that because I've been thinking the same thing. They are butt ugly!" Someone aught to find the makers of these atrocities and slap the shit out of them. What an insult to the women of the world; at least those of us who aren't kazillionaires and can have beautiful custom made clothes. I still don't have anything to wear to the wedding, damn it!
With that futile search ended, we went to CinnaBon and ordered two cinnamon rolls and 2 cokes. $11.00!!!! WTF?
While sitting there, MaryH realized she had left her cell phone in one of the numerous shops we had been to, so having tired feet and feeling cranky from our fruitless search for the perfect look, I suggested she trace back, starting at Macy's, while I went to Penny's to get the socks and undies, where she would meet up with me. The Columbia Mall in Kennewick is like a big spider with hallways going this way and that, so Mary pointed me toward JCP while she turned and went the opposite direction. I walked one long hallway and had to stop to have a "local" point me in the right direction again. So I followed his directions, turning this way and that way. On the last 'that' way, I spotted Y'S on a sign and headed that direction, which led me into the Men's department, just where I wanted to be. Yeah! Knowing Mary might be a while, I lingered through the department looking for the Gold Toes and underwear, touching, feeling and examining the virtues of each very carefully before making my final decision. MH hadn't shown up yet and I was beginning to look suspicious to the sales people, so I decided to go ahead and check out and wait in the openness of the hall until she arrived. The young man rang up my purchase and asked if I wanted to use my Macy's card. I said "No, I'm in Penny's aren't I? I instantly thought, "No wonder this stuff is so damned pricey." I was embarrassed but we both laughed at the fact that I had no clue where the hell I was.
I hurried out into the main hallway thinking MH must be tired of waiting for me, wondering where the hell I was, so I tried to call her on her cell phone as I rushed toward the Penny's sign I finally spotted, not knowing for sure whether she had even found her phone yet. To make matters worse, I had a brand new phone myself and could barely figure out how to turn it on. I was cursing myself for buying a new phone, which I did not need, just because it is Emerald green, let alone obligating me to another two year contract, when it finally rang through, only to have me cut off the call (????) as she answered. Luckily, as I neared the entrance to JCP, she spotted me. I had to confess about my wrong turn into PenAcy's, which gave her a good belly laugh.
I had to go to the lingerie department for myself to get some new bras so as we headed up the escalator, MH told me that she had stepped outside to have a smoke and there happened to be one of the sales clerks doing the same thing, so they struck up a conversation, during which MH BS'd herself into a part-time job. (The JCP clerk happened to be a Supervisor) I got my socks, skivvies and bras and MH got a job. The day was not a total loss.
Oh, we did have to go back to MH's and do the on-line application process which include a Reid survey and background check. That took about twenty minutes and the next day she got a call for the official interview and was hired at $1 an hour over the starting wage.
Yes, indeed. Life is mostly good except for the fact that I will probably have to go to the wedding nekkid. What a scary thought!!
We finished dressing and headed for the Mall. I had to get the undies and socks, remember and thanks to an honest business owner, I had some cash burning a hole in my psyche, begging to be spent. We found a spot close to Penny's, went inside the Mall ready to spend a few hours. I was also looking for a dress for upcoming wedding of my Grandson so that's where we started.
The selection was plentiful and there were some that piqued my interest a little but I didn't want to make a rush decision, so we decided to look further, in other shops and department stores throughout the Mall.
I searched and looked and tried on at least 50 different dresses, learning that somewhere in time I must have become twice what I used to be, size-wise, that is. Me and thousands of other women, 'cuz the size I apparently needed was few and far between. After hours of this torture to my guilt button, and lying about how "cute" everything was, I cried out in frustration to MaryH. "Why is everything so damn butt ugly and made to fit a ten year old?" Mary H said, "Oh, I'm so glad you said that because I've been thinking the same thing. They are butt ugly!" Someone aught to find the makers of these atrocities and slap the shit out of them. What an insult to the women of the world; at least those of us who aren't kazillionaires and can have beautiful custom made clothes. I still don't have anything to wear to the wedding, damn it!
With that futile search ended, we went to CinnaBon and ordered two cinnamon rolls and 2 cokes. $11.00!!!! WTF?
While sitting there, MaryH realized she had left her cell phone in one of the numerous shops we had been to, so having tired feet and feeling cranky from our fruitless search for the perfect look, I suggested she trace back, starting at Macy's, while I went to Penny's to get the socks and undies, where she would meet up with me. The Columbia Mall in Kennewick is like a big spider with hallways going this way and that, so Mary pointed me toward JCP while she turned and went the opposite direction. I walked one long hallway and had to stop to have a "local" point me in the right direction again. So I followed his directions, turning this way and that way. On the last 'that' way, I spotted Y'S on a sign and headed that direction, which led me into the Men's department, just where I wanted to be. Yeah! Knowing Mary might be a while, I lingered through the department looking for the Gold Toes and underwear, touching, feeling and examining the virtues of each very carefully before making my final decision. MH hadn't shown up yet and I was beginning to look suspicious to the sales people, so I decided to go ahead and check out and wait in the openness of the hall until she arrived. The young man rang up my purchase and asked if I wanted to use my Macy's card. I said "No, I'm in Penny's aren't I? I instantly thought, "No wonder this stuff is so damned pricey." I was embarrassed but we both laughed at the fact that I had no clue where the hell I was.
I hurried out into the main hallway thinking MH must be tired of waiting for me, wondering where the hell I was, so I tried to call her on her cell phone as I rushed toward the Penny's sign I finally spotted, not knowing for sure whether she had even found her phone yet. To make matters worse, I had a brand new phone myself and could barely figure out how to turn it on. I was cursing myself for buying a new phone, which I did not need, just because it is Emerald green, let alone obligating me to another two year contract, when it finally rang through, only to have me cut off the call (????) as she answered. Luckily, as I neared the entrance to JCP, she spotted me. I had to confess about my wrong turn into PenAcy's, which gave her a good belly laugh.
I had to go to the lingerie department for myself to get some new bras so as we headed up the escalator, MH told me that she had stepped outside to have a smoke and there happened to be one of the sales clerks doing the same thing, so they struck up a conversation, during which MH BS'd herself into a part-time job. (The JCP clerk happened to be a Supervisor) I got my socks, skivvies and bras and MH got a job. The day was not a total loss.
Oh, we did have to go back to MH's and do the on-line application process which include a Reid survey and background check. That took about twenty minutes and the next day she got a call for the official interview and was hired at $1 an hour over the starting wage.
Yes, indeed. Life is mostly good except for the fact that I will probably have to go to the wedding nekkid. What a scary thought!!
Tuesday, July 15, 2008
A Little Trip
I get lonely for family. However, my kids and grand kids live too far away (a 6 1/2 hour trip if it's non-stop) so this weekend I decided to go to Pasco (2 1/2 hr) to see MaryHell and to go to the mall for socks, undies and most importantly, to find a dress for Eric and Jenn's wedding in September.
I always stop in Washtucna, WA (about half-way) on my way for a pit stop and water or coke. I did this as usual then went on my way to complete the trip. Arriving at MaryHell's, I pulled up to the front of her house, turned off the key, unbuckled my seatbelt (yes, kids, it's finally become a habit with me) and reached over to get my purse. It wasn't there. I frantically searched the floors and back seat, to no avail. The truth is: the words out of my mouth were something to the tune of "SHIT!!" I knew I had left it at the store in Washtucna because I had to get some cash out to pay for the Sobee Energy drink I had decided sounded good and refreshing.
I gathered my suitcase and went into the house to announce my dilemma to MH and Bill. Mary was on the phone in a flash, calling the Sheriff's department in that county, who in turn called the business and then called me back to let me know it was safely in their keeping. I was relieved because not only did it contain all my credit cards and ID, it also contained the $500 shopping and gas cash I had stopped at the ATM to withdraw before I left Moscow.
MH had invited my niece and a friend over to have lunch for my visit and was in the middle of preparing a wonderful chicken salad for the event. MH, in most cases, wears the pants in the house, so she "ordered" Bill to drive the 75 miles back to Washtucna to retrieve my purse so that we could continue on with the luncheon she had planned. He happily agreed. I think he wanted an excuse not to have to listen to a bunch of women gossip and giggle for a couple of hours so I called the business number the sheriff had given me to let them know that Bill would be coming to pick up my purse. I gave the owner a description of Bill and his full name so that he would feel comfortable in handing the purse over to someone other than me. The purse came back with everything I had left in it, intact. I love honest people!!
After lunch and a good visit, Sis left to take her kids to a movie; MH, Kerry and I decided to go on a tour of homes. Kerry is having a home built so we went to see the model, which was fabulous, then on to other areas of the Tri-Cities to compare, see the trends and get decorating ideas, something we all love doing. What's standard in Idaho, is an upgrade in Washington. Even air conditioning! I don't understand that since Mary lives in Hell's kitchen as far as I'm concerned. 110 degrees and the humidity from the Columbia River make for pretty uncomfortable living conditions, but then, I am not a hot weather person to begin with. By the time we finished our "tour", it was getting late so we headed for the barn where Bill, a very good cook, had a great pork chop dinner waiting for us to enjoy. We then settled down for a good movie, The Bucket List. I loved the movie and the message it brings. And, I have found that I too, want my ashes placed in a no nonsense tin can, but not placed on the top of some high mountain in the Himalayas. A shelf in some closet, or on someones kitchen counter will do just fine. We visited and giggled for a while after the movie, then fell into bed, window wide open (it cools down considerably after dark) for the best night's sleep I've enjoyed for quite some time. Not having four dogs on your head definitely makes a difference.
Sunday would be our shopping adventure........in the meantime: zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz
More tomorrow.
P.S. I don't know why my fonts are different in some paragraphs, so just consider the source.
I always stop in Washtucna, WA (about half-way) on my way for a pit stop and water or coke. I did this as usual then went on my way to complete the trip. Arriving at MaryHell's, I pulled up to the front of her house, turned off the key, unbuckled my seatbelt (yes, kids, it's finally become a habit with me) and reached over to get my purse. It wasn't there. I frantically searched the floors and back seat, to no avail. The truth is: the words out of my mouth were something to the tune of "SHIT!!" I knew I had left it at the store in Washtucna because I had to get some cash out to pay for the Sobee Energy drink I had decided sounded good and refreshing.
I gathered my suitcase and went into the house to announce my dilemma to MH and Bill. Mary was on the phone in a flash, calling the Sheriff's department in that county, who in turn called the business and then called me back to let me know it was safely in their keeping. I was relieved because not only did it contain all my credit cards and ID, it also contained the $500 shopping and gas cash I had stopped at the ATM to withdraw before I left Moscow.
MH had invited my niece and a friend over to have lunch for my visit and was in the middle of preparing a wonderful chicken salad for the event. MH, in most cases, wears the pants in the house, so she "ordered" Bill to drive the 75 miles back to Washtucna to retrieve my purse so that we could continue on with the luncheon she had planned. He happily agreed. I think he wanted an excuse not to have to listen to a bunch of women gossip and giggle for a couple of hours so I called the business number the sheriff had given me to let them know that Bill would be coming to pick up my purse. I gave the owner a description of Bill and his full name so that he would feel comfortable in handing the purse over to someone other than me. The purse came back with everything I had left in it, intact. I love honest people!!
After lunch and a good visit, Sis left to take her kids to a movie; MH, Kerry and I decided to go on a tour of homes. Kerry is having a home built so we went to see the model, which was fabulous, then on to other areas of the Tri-Cities to compare, see the trends and get decorating ideas, something we all love doing. What's standard in Idaho, is an upgrade in Washington. Even air conditioning! I don't understand that since Mary lives in Hell's kitchen as far as I'm concerned. 110 degrees and the humidity from the Columbia River make for pretty uncomfortable living conditions, but then, I am not a hot weather person to begin with. By the time we finished our "tour", it was getting late so we headed for the barn where Bill, a very good cook, had a great pork chop dinner waiting for us to enjoy. We then settled down for a good movie, The Bucket List. I loved the movie and the message it brings. And, I have found that I too, want my ashes placed in a no nonsense tin can, but not placed on the top of some high mountain in the Himalayas. A shelf in some closet, or on someones kitchen counter will do just fine. We visited and giggled for a while after the movie, then fell into bed, window wide open (it cools down considerably after dark) for the best night's sleep I've enjoyed for quite some time. Not having four dogs on your head definitely makes a difference.
Sunday would be our shopping adventure........in the meantime: zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz
More tomorrow.
P.S. I don't know why my fonts are different in some paragraphs, so just consider the source.
Monday, June 30, 2008
June Is Bustin' Out
THE BIRTHDAY GIRL, SANDEE
June was bustin' out all over in 1967 and so was I until the very last day when I was the one burstin' with pride and love for Sandee Lynn, my third baby, who came into this old world that day. It had been three years and eleven months since Darrell was born on July 11, 1963. We were thrilled to have another baby in our home. Seems like just yesterday but the little darling is celebrating her forty-first today and it is a pleasure to know and love her.
Love you lots!! Your favorite Mommie
Friday, May 23, 2008
A Place in My Heart......Forever Filled
Six years ago today, my first Great Granddaughter made her entrance into this world and into the hearts of a large extended family. Cailin Marie is her name-a name never to be forgotten. She started life with an imperfect heart, underwent surgery and was connected to life support-all within a few hours of her birth.
I was working when I received the call announcing her birth and the news of her fight for life. I cried my eyes out, both for the joy of her birth and the heartbreak I felt for her Mom and Dad (Eric, my grandson) and for my daughter Michelle, her grandmother. Unable to be there by their sides, I kept up-to-date by telephone and by logging on to the web sight provided by the hospital for those family members, like myself, who are far away. They provided daily updates on her condition and current pictures of her, which was a wonder service.
She was beautiful and perfect on the exterior, but her little body could not endure. Though the medical team worked very hard to save her, it was not to be. Cailin returned back to her original home eleven days after her short visit to this plane.
I think of her often, imagining a delightful little "Daddy's Girl", loved enormously and unconditionally by all who would have the privilege to know her, comforted by my faith that her death was a rebirth into a realm of unimaginable love where she whole, happy and waiting patiently to greet those of us whose life she touched forever.
She was laid to rest in a beautiful place, surrounded by lovely trees and flowers, in the company of many other little angels who were needed more in Heaven than on Earth. Although I can't go there this Memorial Day to honor her life, and tell her of my love, I will be there in spirit with her, to watch the beautiful sunset that warms her and glows over her little place on Earth.
I love you, Cailin Marie. You have a place in my heart forever filled with you.
Grandma Dort
I was working when I received the call announcing her birth and the news of her fight for life. I cried my eyes out, both for the joy of her birth and the heartbreak I felt for her Mom and Dad (Eric, my grandson) and for my daughter Michelle, her grandmother. Unable to be there by their sides, I kept up-to-date by telephone and by logging on to the web sight provided by the hospital for those family members, like myself, who are far away. They provided daily updates on her condition and current pictures of her, which was a wonder service.
She was beautiful and perfect on the exterior, but her little body could not endure. Though the medical team worked very hard to save her, it was not to be. Cailin returned back to her original home eleven days after her short visit to this plane.
I think of her often, imagining a delightful little "Daddy's Girl", loved enormously and unconditionally by all who would have the privilege to know her, comforted by my faith that her death was a rebirth into a realm of unimaginable love where she whole, happy and waiting patiently to greet those of us whose life she touched forever.
She was laid to rest in a beautiful place, surrounded by lovely trees and flowers, in the company of many other little angels who were needed more in Heaven than on Earth. Although I can't go there this Memorial Day to honor her life, and tell her of my love, I will be there in spirit with her, to watch the beautiful sunset that warms her and glows over her little place on Earth.
I love you, Cailin Marie. You have a place in my heart forever filled with you.
Grandma Dort
Thursday, May 8, 2008
Today Is Such a Special Day.....
Things are Looking Up
Ok, so I did a lot of bitchin' about the clothes available to me when I posted last time. Well I found an online source, TravelSmith, thats has some decent looking, up-to-date clothes. This little tunic struck my fancy, so I ordered it. I think it is befitting a mini queen size great grandmother, don't you? The blue background is really more a Royal blue than it looks here and it has a slight baby doll look with the empire waist and criss-cross V neckline, gathered under the bust line. Fabric wise, it is a lightweight crinkle cotton. The white you see at the V and on the tiny cuffs is a soft cotton lace. You can see it close up at Travel Smith, who specialized in clothes for people who travel a lot and need easy care, wrinkle-free clothes. An undisclosed source tells me that my upcoming Manager's Meeting is being held in Vegas! WaHoo! I hope that person is correct. Most of all, I hope this tunic fits! Wish me luck...........
Monday, April 21, 2008
I Love My Sisters
When I called the Clone (Dewe) to tell her the sad new about my best friend Suz, she offered MaryHell and me her home as our Bed and Breakfast while there, suggesting that she call our sister Lois (Phyllis), who lives in Pocatello, to come and join us. I was so grateful to have my three living sisters there for support during this very difficult time. They made the days easier to bare in so many ways.
It had been at least three years since the four of us were all together, the last time being for the burial of our oldest sister Carol. And here we were again, for another sad occasion. Despite this, we managed to have a wonderful time together. Dolores waited on us hand and foot, cooking wonderful meals and doing laundry for us like we were someone special.
We laughed and we cried, we reminisced, poked fun at each other, instigated some mischief, we napped and watched movies and TV, discussed politics, gossiped, caught up
on the lives and times of seldom seen family members, did a little shopping (we couldn't help ourselves) and sometimes just sat in silence, enjoying the company of each other without words.It was hard to leave at the end of the week, but every minute was precious to me, being with my sisters. I'm thankful for the gift of their company that week.
I love my Sisties Ugler!!
Sunday, March 23, 2008
What I Did for Easter
My favorites memories of Easters Past are when my kids were very young and we, like millions of others, would color and decorate the eggs. Their father and I would take them outside and hide them everywhere on the adre of ground we owned then. It was as exciting for us (the parents) to watch them scurry all over the place, looking for these little colored treasures to fill their baskets, as it was for our kids.
The kids are grown, with kids of their own, doing their own family things today. Yesterday, I was remembering these fun times, wanting to relive the coloring of the eggs an so forth, but here I am, in Moscow, ID, with no little people to do this with so I decided to do some coloring anyway.
Do you remember the Easter song whose lyrics started out with.."In my Easter bonnet, with all the frill upon it..? Well here is my new Easter bonnet, and I colored it myself. Compare it to my Profile hat which took years to create. My new hat took a couple of hours:
The kids are grown, with kids of their own, doing their own family things today. Yesterday, I was remembering these fun times, wanting to relive the coloring of the eggs an so forth, but here I am, in Moscow, ID, with no little people to do this with so I decided to do some coloring anyway.
Do you remember the Easter song whose lyrics started out with.."In my Easter bonnet, with all the frill upon it..? Well here is my new Easter bonnet, and I colored it myself. Compare it to my Profile hat which took years to create. My new hat took a couple of hours:
Friday, March 21, 2008
The Goodies
While Mary Hell bustled around the kitchen and I sat on the bar stool observing this flurry of activity, we reminisced, laughed, and gossiped as much as we could. Once in a while Betty Crocker tried to sneak out of me, offering suggestions on what might make a delightful addition to the goodies. For the most part, I kept her at bay, not wanting that monster to rear it's ugly head. hehehe. Now this was not intended to be a sit-down meal, just a "help yourself when you feel the urge to nibble" sort of thing. That said, here are the results:
This salad/dip was created from frozen mixed veggies containing mini bow tie pasta. They were steamed for a few minutes, then left to cool while Mary H. chopped fresh peppers, (orange and green), and celery. Next addition was fresh grated carrots and some thinly sliced green onions. Finally it was dressed with Dorothy something-or-other dressing. (Betty C. suggested Berstein's Cheese Fantastico would also be lucious). It then went into the refrigerator to cool and meld the flavors. It was yummy!
Next..........more chopped/sliced veggies for the Shrimp salad:
This has been a family favorite for many, many years containing fresh chopped tomatoes, celery, green onion, radish, cucumber and head lettuce. Betty sometimes adds some Romaine and baby spinach. Toss together with one can (or more, for a crowd) of whole med shrimp, the costly kind (about $4, but worth it for the flavor). Cover and put it the fridge for the flavors to meld. Just before serving, dress it with plain old mayo (NO Miracle Whip)...it needs the delicate flavor. Again, Betty C. adds a little milk to thin the mayo so it isn't as heavy on the delicate lettuce. This salad is great for a light supper, served with fresh French bread and BUTTER, of course.
A simple meat entree came next:
This dish was the easiest of all, thanks to the Schwann Company. You, know the one that delivers that fabulous ice-cream to your door. I forgave Mary H for this one because a girl needs help once in while, doncha think? They went into the crock pot, along with some gourmet beef broth from a box, (No, not Swanson)and a little extra seasoning (whatever trips your trigger) and then simmered on low until hot, bubbly, and juicy. It was my first time to try these and I must say, they were delicious. I shall contact the Schwann man in my area.
And, of course, the bread:
These beauties took about ten minutes to make. To a simple baking powder biscuit dough, Mary H, added about a cup-and-a-half of grated Parmesan and Romano cheese and about a tablespoon of dried Italian seasoning. A little milk was added to these dry ingredients to form a soft dough, which was kneaded for a short minute, them rolled out to an oval about 1/8 of an inch thick. She then sliced the dough, diagonally, about 3/4 in wide. Each of these strips was given the spiral twist you see in the picture. About a half pound of butter was melted onto a cookie sheet, after which each bread stick was rolled in the butter and placed on the same sheet. Into the oven for about ten minutes at, I'm guessing, 375 degrees, or until golden brown. As you can see, she almost forgot the second batch, but they were delicious!
Great food, perfect for any informal get together. As an added note, there were crackers and chips, cheese, etc. for snacking. One creation, I particulary enjoyed was made using Lay's Scoops white corn chips. (looks like micro mini taco salad bowls) It was a spoonful of the veggie/pasta salad, put into the Scoop, topped with an Italian meat ball. Cold, warm, and yummy all at once. The food was enjoyed by all. You will see some of those folks next time. Have a wonderful Easter everyone!
This salad/dip was created from frozen mixed veggies containing mini bow tie pasta. They were steamed for a few minutes, then left to cool while Mary H. chopped fresh peppers, (orange and green), and celery. Next addition was fresh grated carrots and some thinly sliced green onions. Finally it was dressed with Dorothy something-or-other dressing. (Betty C. suggested Berstein's Cheese Fantastico would also be lucious). It then went into the refrigerator to cool and meld the flavors. It was yummy!
Next..........more chopped/sliced veggies for the Shrimp salad:
This has been a family favorite for many, many years containing fresh chopped tomatoes, celery, green onion, radish, cucumber and head lettuce. Betty sometimes adds some Romaine and baby spinach. Toss together with one can (or more, for a crowd) of whole med shrimp, the costly kind (about $4, but worth it for the flavor). Cover and put it the fridge for the flavors to meld. Just before serving, dress it with plain old mayo (NO Miracle Whip)...it needs the delicate flavor. Again, Betty C. adds a little milk to thin the mayo so it isn't as heavy on the delicate lettuce. This salad is great for a light supper, served with fresh French bread and BUTTER, of course.
A simple meat entree came next:
This dish was the easiest of all, thanks to the Schwann Company. You, know the one that delivers that fabulous ice-cream to your door. I forgave Mary H for this one because a girl needs help once in while, doncha think? They went into the crock pot, along with some gourmet beef broth from a box, (No, not Swanson)and a little extra seasoning (whatever trips your trigger) and then simmered on low until hot, bubbly, and juicy. It was my first time to try these and I must say, they were delicious. I shall contact the Schwann man in my area.
And, of course, the bread:
These beauties took about ten minutes to make. To a simple baking powder biscuit dough, Mary H, added about a cup-and-a-half of grated Parmesan and Romano cheese and about a tablespoon of dried Italian seasoning. A little milk was added to these dry ingredients to form a soft dough, which was kneaded for a short minute, them rolled out to an oval about 1/8 of an inch thick. She then sliced the dough, diagonally, about 3/4 in wide. Each of these strips was given the spiral twist you see in the picture. About a half pound of butter was melted onto a cookie sheet, after which each bread stick was rolled in the butter and placed on the same sheet. Into the oven for about ten minutes at, I'm guessing, 375 degrees, or until golden brown. As you can see, she almost forgot the second batch, but they were delicious!
Great food, perfect for any informal get together. As an added note, there were crackers and chips, cheese, etc. for snacking. One creation, I particulary enjoyed was made using Lay's Scoops white corn chips. (looks like micro mini taco salad bowls) It was a spoonful of the veggie/pasta salad, put into the Scoop, topped with an Italian meat ball. Cold, warm, and yummy all at once. The food was enjoyed by all. You will see some of those folks next time. Have a wonderful Easter everyone!
Thursday, March 20, 2008
While the Goodies Were Brewing.............
While Mary H was getting the groceries together for the goodies, I was still sitting on my butt on the barstool, looking at several of the myriad of catalogs she gets in the mail with one eye, and watching her work with the other. Work fascinates me, you know.....I could watch it all day. I did get up for a coke or to wander once in a while. On one such mini trip, I decided to try to take a picture of a picture Mary has on her wall. It is of my Mom and her sister, Aunt Pat, taken circa 1923 or 1924. It has some glare from the glass but I love this picture. Mary has promised to have a copy made for me:
I had just sat down again, when Mary Hell's daughter, Sis and her son, Jared, came in to pick Bill up for a basketball game her other son, Levi was playing. Sis's B-Day is two days after mine so the goodies under construction were for her too. She's too cute to have a son taller than her and he's only 13! Last year when I saw him he was about eight inches shorter. Handsome couple, aren't they?
I promise tomorrow, I will reveal the finished products of Chef Mary Hell. Amen and Good Night!
I had just sat down again, when Mary Hell's daughter, Sis and her son, Jared, came in to pick Bill up for a basketball game her other son, Levi was playing. Sis's B-Day is two days after mine so the goodies under construction were for her too. She's too cute to have a son taller than her and he's only 13! Last year when I saw him he was about eight inches shorter. Handsome couple, aren't they?
I promise tomorrow, I will reveal the finished products of Chef Mary Hell. Amen and Good Night!
Wednesday, March 19, 2008
Back to the Visit
I had cut Mary H's hair and Bill had arrived from Winco. Now it was time for the great Chef to put it all together. First thing was to cook the filling for the German chocolate cake. Pecans, coconut, lots of butter, cream and sugar cooked to perfection, then a generous portion spread between the layers and onto the top. Yummy!!
Next:
Butter, powdered sugar, cocoa, vanilla (the real stuff) and a little cream went into the Kitchen Aid mixer and blended to just the right thickness and texture to suit Mary Hell. She is in real life, (if there is such a thing,) an award winning Pastry Chef, very fussy about the quality of ingredients used in her baking.
Then she got out a pastry tube, applied the perfect tip, filled it with the icing, pressing out all the air and went to work:
And worked some more:
I swear, I only stuck my finger in the icing bowl three or four times and no, I didn't lick the bowl.
Mary H's hands work quickly, guiding that pastry tube up and down and around that cake, never wavering in her duty. In about five minutes time the creation was complete, patiently waiting for the minute I would do the honorable thing, though difficult, and fill that last space in my tummy with this disgusting filth. Life is hard, I tell ya! But before that, I would have to indulge in some of the goodies I will show you next time. With that, may I present you with the final result:
TEN MILLION CALORIES WAITING TO JOIN MY HIPS!!
Tuesday, March 18, 2008
Michelle Susan-My Firstborn
It's hard to believe that forty-six years ago, while still a baby myself, I gave birth to a beautiful, blue eyed, blond haired little girl. I love her as my daughter, I love her as my friend, and I love her for the beautiful, talented woman she is. What else can I say.........I am damn proud of her!
Sunday, March 16, 2008
The Visit Continues
WHERE'D YOU GET THAT HAT!!??
Whenever I travel, I always have my hair cutting scissors with me just in case I need to snip a wild hair when I'm blow drying mine every morning. When we were kids and too poor to pay attention, I started cutting my own hair and and still do to this day. Well, as you can see from the picture above, Mary H went to a so called hairdresser who claimed she knew what she was doing. So, after our hug and hellos, Mary H begged me to trim her hair. Poor thing, before the terrible haircut, that same "professional" had given her a perm that had burned some of her hair clear off. I felt like Edward Scissorhands as I snipped and shaped that head of hair into something resembling a real "do". Mary H was thrilled with the results, claiming it was the best haircut she'd had in years. Once she dried and combed it, I must say, it did look pretty darn good. It made me happy to make her happy.
WINCO FOODS PROVIDES THE GOODIES
After we finished playing Beauty Shop, and Mary H had dressed and created her new "do", Bill, my brother-in-law, came in the door with arms full of groceries. It was time for Chef Mary to put her culinary skills to work. I made a half-assed offer to help but, to my utter relief, the chef insisted she had it all under control. Therefore, I plopped my butt onto a barstool and watched the creation begin. Besides, it was my birthday and as I've stated before............I'm done being Betty Crocker! Next time, you'll see the groceries become the goodies we were later to consume.
Saturday, March 15, 2008
Gettin' the story straight.
Roll on down to I'm Back From the Land of OZ to start from the beginning. It might make more sense to you, if you do. I haven't figured out how to change the order of these blogs yet, genious that I happen to be.
IGNORE THIS POST. MY DARLING DAUGHTER SANDEE LED ME TO THE LIGHT. ALL IS IN THE ORDER IT SHOULD BE.
IGNORE THIS POST. MY DARLING DAUGHTER SANDEE LED ME TO THE LIGHT. ALL IS IN THE ORDER IT SHOULD BE.
I'm Back from the land of OZ
Actually, I came home on Tuesday afternoon, but had to catch up on: 1. my beauty sleep, 2. my laundry (thrilling) 3. Go to Fish and Game for a license to kill all the dust bunnies that invaded while I was gone, 4. catch up on my beauty sleep, 5. Go back to work and play catch-up some more. So here it is, Saturday night already and I'm ready to report my mini trip.
I left home around eight Saturday morning, in a rain storm. The 2 -1/2 hour trip was uneventful and it is not a pretty drive from Moscow to Pasco, so I'll leave out the beautiful sites I passed along the way..............there are none.
I left home around eight Saturday morning, in a rain storm. The 2 -1/2 hour trip was uneventful and it is not a pretty drive from Moscow to Pasco, so I'll leave out the beautiful sites I passed along the way..............there are none.
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