mom in the wilderness

Happy Celebrations

2012-01-25T21:05:00.001-06:00

January Birthday time for the guys was all about the food.

Steak, steak and steak was enjoyed by some of the guys.

Charlie's Steak and Seafood was the restaurant of choice. And it does not disappoint.

Happy Anniversary Brandon and Julie and Happy Birthday Chris and Larry.

Can't wait for next month's celebrations. It will be for me!! Yippee!

gin

We're having a baby

2012-01-12T18:31:00.000-06:00

We're going to be grandparents. I'm gonna be a mawmaw. It's gonna be great. I can't wait.

Technically, it's not about me. I know.
It's about the mommy-and-daddy-to-be.
It's their life. Their baby. And they're in charge.

But around August 3rd it will be all about the baby. And this maw-maw can go wild spoiling this lil' one. Why wait? I can start the spoiling now.

gin

H.N.Y. 2012

2012-01-03T19:38:00.001-06:00

T'was was the holiday that never stopped. It went on and on and on. From Christmas Eve to the day after New Years.

Jennifer & Chris came for several days at two different times. A little shopping and a little hunting was enjoyed by all. Even though I worked everyday.

Trent came his days off that was during the week. A little more hunting, relaxing, and eating was enjoyed by all. Even though I worked everyday.

Brandon came Friday for the day. A little more hunting and eating.

It was nice!!

gin

Christmas 2011

2011-12-30T16:40:00.000-06:00

A Christmas re-cap. Because I know You want to see.

It all started with Christmas dinner. Then let's get on with the important stuff.

Tyler reading the Christmas Story for us, "The Newborn King".

And then every one opening gifts from name drawing. Gifts included everything from guns to jewelry.

The girls.

My present.

Tyler and me.

The crew.

Praise to Our Savior on His birthday!!

gin

Monday Monday

2011-12-26T15:35:00.001-06:00

Rest and relaxation comes after Christmas Day. Don't have to cook today because there are leftovers from Christmas Day. I stare at the Christmas tree, the Christmas wreath, the Christmas decorations wanting to clear everything out today. But I'll do it tomorrow. Enjoying looking at my Christmas pictures taken on Christmas Day.

It has rained for 2 days and nights. New pj's are really getting a work out!! Thank you!

Entertaining myself by blog surfing and see what y'all and y'all are up to. It's like reading a good book.

Let's get the New Year on!

gin

Reason

2011-12-16T21:37:00.001-06:00

It's close. 9 days to go until the family crowds, the oohing and ahhing over gifts, the non-stop foods, the tree skirt in full view from an empty floor under the tree. These are the reasons for all the hustle and bustle.

And, Christmas tree cookies of which I have eaten dozens and dozens of in the last week and have literally made people eat them with me and even insisted they take some home.

The fun of wrapping papers spread out all over the floor to wrap those special choosen gifts for those special people to place under the tree for the big day.

The Christmas book that we read every year on Christmas Day before we open the gifts. Because, after all, it's HIS birthday.

And, it's the reason for the season, for the spirit, for the giving that we can celebrate, rejoice, worship, and praise The Newborn King.

gin

Come on Santa !!!!!

2011-12-01T22:57:00.000-06:00

The stockings are hung by the chimney with care. Come on Santa!

The tree is up ready for the presents. Come on Santa!!!!

Poochie is ready as she adores the angel on top the tree.

Come on Santa!!! Can't wait!

gin

Thank you

2011-11-11T09:54:00.001-06:00

It's Veterans Day 11-11-11.....

Thank you to all the military men and women who have so graciously served our country to give us what we have today - freedom.

To all my generations of family members who have served, I thank you...

And to my dad and my son-(in-law) Chris, I thank you...

gin

Through the woods

2011-11-10T09:21:00.000-06:00

A nice fall day calls for some outside time in the wilderness. With a hike thru the woods with Jennifer, Chris, Larry and me.

It's late evening and the sun is beginning to set.

Some walking, some riding while feeding the deer along the way. Jennifer did see one deer ahead of her as she drove thru the wooded path.

Some falling and laughing. That would be me. Tripping on a something and down I went but making sure my camera was safe. Got to take those pictures you know.

now, where is my camera?

After a long hike and a couple bruises on me, it's time to head back to the house.

gin

Happy Birthday Trent

2011-10-23T09:20:00.000-05:00

A little birthday celebration party.

Trent turned 26.

His request: Lunch at Chili's. We met there.

He was announced as the birthday guest with the happy birthday song sung by the waitresses and his very own hot fudge cake with ice cream. He did not want to be acknowledged, but he would enjoy the cake.

Brandon and Julie laughing while Trent is being serenaded by the whole restaurant.

Jennifer and Chris watching.

His 2nd request: birthday cake from Gambino's.

A happy birthday to Trent with cake, presents, and family.

gin

While in Florida . . .

2011-10-14T02:12:00.001-05:00

A little sight-seeing going on at the beach and Harbor Village after and before the wedding. The beach and weather couldn't have been better. It was beautiful.

Walking thru Harbor Village we saw a lot of hot stuff. But this boat was named HotStuff. We ate at Harry T's, but no pictures. Don't know what I was thinking of not getting any picture. But the very extra large nacho appetizer piled sky-high with all the fillings was more than enough to feed 8 of his at 10pm at nite and was delicious.

Back view of some of our group. Peggy, Cheryl, Julie, Brandon while walking down the boardwalk at Harbor Village.

And Trent, Brandon, Julie taking in all the sites.

And more walking

It made for a very nice time.

gin

Wedding Day

2011-10-11T09:11:00.000-05:00

September 24, 2011

Jennifer & Chris

Destin Fl

A beautiful beach wedding. Perfect weather, blue skies, white sand, and the sound of the water.

Jennifer and her dad.

Saying their wedding vows

Congratulations to the newlyweds, Mr & Mrs Christopher Donaldson!!

gin

An awesome lady

2011-10-03T08:36:00.001-05:00

Today would be my mawmaw's birthday. She is always on my mind and in my heart.

gin

Tis the Season

2011-08-18T08:51:00.002-05:00

I'm liking me some football. We'll be cheering on the Saints and the LSU tigers.

With a little bit of clothing attire to match. Have you seen the collegiate pom-pom knit gloves, especially in purple and gold? I like them. But probably wouldn't wear them in public. I'll just stick to my saints and lsu's tees and shorts. Oh and matching flip flops.

Here's to the fans.

gin

Is there a doctor in the house?

2011-08-05T10:52:00.002-05:00

No.

But maybe one day.

Jennifer is continuing her nursing education. When she grows up she wants to be a doctor.

Some People

2011-08-03T21:06:00.004-05:00

Some people are living the good life this week.

That would be Brandon and Julie on a weeks vacation.

This is the view from their balcony in Destin.

They are texting me pictures, knowing I love the beach.

Looks like they are not the only ones on a last vacation before school starts back.

Wish i was there!

gin

Happy Birthday

2011-07-29T21:36:00.000-05:00

Happy Birthday to my father today. The BIG 90 !

He's had many of the BIG days! But he's in great health and has a great outlook on life.

2011-07-08T09:00:00.000-05:00

Happy July 4th holiday weekend.

Molly-dog is spending the holiday with us. I think she's enjoying herself.

Macy, wish you were here too.

gin

It's Jennifer Day

2011-06-10T08:05:00.001-05:00

Happy Birthday Jennifer. Her 28th one.

Have a Happy Day.

Jennifer and Chris just bought a new house

and is in the middle of planning a wedding. They picked out a few wedding/new house items for me to get.

Really cute Noritake casual china!

And Pfaltzgraff silverware. And I'm sure I'll add a few other things for them.

And this is how you play putt putt golf and win --- with your eyes closed.

gin

Hot

2011-06-01T14:34:00.001-05:00

It's hot outside for sure.
And hot inside too.
No a/c for two days.
New one installed Tuesday. YAY!!!!!!!

gin

Happy Birthday Brandon

2011-05-04T10:17:00.000-05:00

Happy 31st Brandon!!!!

With a little crawfish on the side.

gin

My monthly fishin' fix

2011-04-22T10:14:00.003-05:00

It's in the middle of the spring, just the right temp - not too hot yet. So, hit the lake is just what they Larry, Chris and Tyler did.

Tyler was the winner for the day. He caught the first fish. The biggest fish. And the only fish!! Chris and Larry were zero for zero.

Tyler received the fishing trophy for the day. He also fished at Brandon's pond a few weeks ago. This made for the really biggest catch of the day. I don't think he's quite sure about this monster face to face.

gin

New House

2011-04-13T10:26:00.001-05:00

A new house for Jennifer and Chris.

14511 Stones Throw Court.

Congratulations!

2011-03-24T08:17:00.002-05:00

To a happy couple.

Jennifer and Chris.

Bayou Baby

2011-03-22T05:37:00.000-05:00

Not a baby creature I would want to play with. But makes for good conversation.

gin

Awarded

2011-03-21T10:56:00.002-05:00

I finally got to award my trophys to the anglers.

First catch trophy to Trent. Biggest catch trophy to Trent. Most fish caught to Larry.
Unusual catch to Trent. Runner Up to Brandon. And Champion Angler of the day to Trent.

Even though Chris, Tyler, and Joe didn't get to make the first trip, they still got an award.
Joe excited for his tournament medal. He wants that big trophy to be his on the next trip.

I had fun anyway. We'll see how the next trip goes.
gin

New Truck

2011-03-20T10:58:00.007-05:00

My new wheels. Didn't want one just yet. Had no choice. One truck wrecked. One truck as replacement.

I do love it though.

gin

F.I.S.H. 101

2011-03-16T04:08:00.001-05:00

     The family guys had their first family fishing tournament. Planned by me. They set out on an early Friday morning with equipment, food and drinks, and camera in hand.

    Although I was not along for the day, I did request, demand, and expect pictures. I got 4 pictures from them. Less than what I wanted, expected, or asked for. But, I gladly accepted what I was given.
Only 3 participants on this day.    But still competition.



The catch.

And a scenic view of their location.

Now, to get the trophys awarded, soon.

gin

Birthday Girl

2011-03-02T19:49:00.000-06:00

Happy Birthday Julie . . . .

Celebrated with cake, gifts, and food for the 25 year old who is studying for her Masters at Southeastern, working on campus in the Dean's office, and finding time for her husband, home, and family. We love you.

gin

Way Down South

2011-02-11T16:34:00.001-06:00

--in the LA bayou!!

My iphone reporter submitted this picture he took while out fishing. The little fellow was sitting on the limb watching them as went fishing and trolling by.

What a cool picture. Thanks Brandon.

Hornets

2011-02-02T06:38:00.002-06:00

Brandon and some friends had tickets to the Hornets home game in New Orleans this week.
He sent me pictures.

They were up top in a private suite thing with catered food, luxury seating, and what ever else comes with the vip treatment.

January Birthdays

2011-01-31T22:11:00.001-06:00

Did a little celebrating in January for birthdays and anniversaries. We did have 2 cakes. That was my fault. We ordered one cake for the planned big day. At the last minute, we could not go, so they all celebrated without us. Then we planned another day and ordered another cake.

#1 Brandon and Julie's wedding anniversary #2 Chris' Birthday

#3 JoeJoe's birthday #4 Larry's Birthday

Why do you think some ran from me and the camera and would not look?

We met at a Mexican restaurant to eat, then went to Jennifer's apt for birthday cake, played Dance 2 on wii, and back home.

gin

Fishy

2011-01-19T22:16:00.001-06:00

Send me your picture via text and I will be happy to share them. I am looking for some good stories to report on. -- I'll be happy to tell about your day.

Aren't these some pretty fish? Pinks, blues, yellows, oranges . . .

And the aquarium set up is just as pretty.

Credit given to Jennifer and Chris == they did a good job on decorating their fish's home and picking out such cute fish. One of their Christmas presents to each other.
gin

5 years old

2011-01-11T07:57:00.002-06:00

Joe is growing up fast, so his mom says. But they all grow up fast.
Here is Joe showing me he is 5.

He's all boy, ruff and tuff, running and jumping, and cute as can be.

Happy Birthday Joe.

gin

2011

2011-01-02T22:14:00.000-06:00

The new year started off good. Just hanging around the house doing really nothing.

Found a few sparklers left over from last year and we played with them till we burned them all out.

Just us and the dogs!

A little cuddling with the fur balls. Molly-dog spent her holidays with us.

A little cooking and eating. Some good ol' comfort food -- shrimp etoufee'.

And doing a little bit of spring cleaning -- early!

I've made no new year resolutions this year. Mainly because I know there is a lot of stuff I need to do -- or a lot of stuff I need to do better. So I really work on that every year anyway.

7 Days till Christmas

2010-12-19T10:40:00.001-06:00

Seven days till Christmas Day.

At least the dog is ready.

The Real Halloween

2010-11-01T09:35:00.004-05:00

Trent, Lillie and Joe did the pumpkin carving, trick or treating, hay ride, they did it all at Lillie's parents and sent me some pics.

One Spider Man trick or treater.

Jpe's pumpkin is scary all lit up at night.

And two carved pumpkins. The one above that Trent, Lillie and Joe carved and the one below that Jennifer, Chris and Tyler carved.

Halloween is fun.

gin

Happy . . . Happy . . . Happy . . .

2010-10-29T14:56:00.000-05:00

Happy Birthday Trent

Happy Anniversary to us

Happy Halloween to you

gin

Down on the farm

2010-10-20T11:21:00.005-05:00

Trent and Lillie starting a farm it looks like.
Beauregard is the first addition to the farm or herd!
Joe is getting hands on with the little fellow.

Goats can be big business.

gin

Fair is in the air

2010-10-11T09:41:00.002-05:00

Oh, how I love the fair. I've been going to the same parish fair for 50+ years. I love the atmosphere -- the rides, the food, the exhibits, the people.

So here is a few pics of the kids and their day at the fair.

Joe driving himself around and around.

Bronco Tyler

Enjoyed by all!!!

gin

Cool and Crisp

2010-10-05T21:27:00.006-05:00

The weather that is.
It's great to take the mile long hike thru the wilderness with the leaves crackling under your feet.

Or better yet take a ride thru the woods.
Then it's time to go home in your cool ride.

Another Season

2010-10-05T11:31:00.000-05:00

Fresh air. Crackling leaves. Shorter days. This is what we get when we give up the 100 degree days.Add some orange, gold and browns to the greens.
But still enjoying the outside.
With Halloween just around the corner.
Happy Fall

gin

Happy Birthday Tyler

2010-08-17T10:10:00.002-05:00

Had a weekend birthday celebration. A lot of fun at Chucky Cheese for 7 year old Tyler.

Jennifer and Chris invited us and JoJo to Chris' little boy's birthday party. I had as much fun as the kids did playing the games to win tickets to win prizes. The pizza and cake also hit the spot.

What fun to be young and young at heart!
gin

Sleepover

2010-07-13T11:29:00.000-05:00

t's a sleepover for the dogs.
Molly spent the weekend while her mom and Chris went to Destin.

Molly and Poochie are not the best pair in getting along. Poochie says her relatives come over and eat her food, play with her toys, wear her clothes, sleep in her bed, and get her treats. We're sorry Poochie, but you have to share and be nice to your family.

gin

In the City

2010-07-11T11:37:00.000-05:00

We went to a big city this week. Larry had work retirement related appointment there. It's always nice to go for the day and be a tourist.

If you guess the city we were in, I will send you one of my bird applique towels!!!
Here are a few hints for you in pictures:

And,
You have until Sunday midnight to guess. It should be really easy!!!!

gin

Ahh, the hotter the better

2010-07-01T11:33:00.000-05:00

I have to say it again, "I LOVE SUMMER".
It would be fine with me to have summer year round. I like it 99 degrees, with shorts and shirt everyday.

Put me on the water. Put me outside. Put me on a road trip. And I will be a happy camper.

I'm true to my astrological sign. You can take me out of the water, but you can't take the water out of my mind.

Boat riding

From dawn to dusk.

I like it outside from sun-up to midnight. No housework, no cooking, no domestication for me. --Ok, I do have to make beds and eat something. But that's all I'm gonna do. I like playing outside the best. I plan on getting a lot of this in this holiday weekend.

Hope you have a good holiday weekend too!

gin

Happy Early Birthday Trent

2010-06-14T01:52:00.000-05:00

After birthday wishes for everyone else recently in the past few months, I'm wishing Trent an early birthdy, then again in October.

And a Happy belated Birthday to JoeJoe, who turned 4 in January.

gin

Happy Birthday Jennifer

2010-06-10T01:25:00.001-05:00

Wet Weekend

2010-05-30T03:16:00.000-05:00

A wild and wet weekend with fun and sun in Brandon's new boat.

gin

Happy Birthday Lillie

2010-05-14T08:23:00.001-05:00

Happy Birthday Brandon

2010-05-04T15:21:00.000-05:00

gin

Happy Birthday Julie

2010-04-15T15:12:00.001-05:00

March 2, 2010

gin

It's Easter

2010-04-14T21:26:00.000-05:00

"For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life." John 3:16, New International Version

That sums it up: God gave his only son to be born in Bethlehem, to live on this earth teaching and healing, to die on the cross for our sins and his body placed in the tomb, and He arose from death to live again, just for us, if we only believe.

So while we enjoy the Easter weekend with Easter Sunday Service, bunnies, eggs, and candy; let's praise God and thank Him for his Son.

P.S. My kids still take pictures with the Easter Bunny. This is Jennifer at work at the hospital posing with Bunny...
(sorry about blurry picture)
gin

Loaded

2010-04-13T11:40:00.000-05:00

This is one gigantic rose bush. It began as a cutting/transplant from my mawmaws house in Walker in 1998 to my Walker South house. Then when we moved to the wilderness I brought cuttings with me and voila!!

It is two bushes, one on each end of the trellis. There is a bird bath in the middle. You can hardly see the bird bath. The birds are probably too scared to get in the bird bath.

We built the trellis for it a few years ago. The trellis is 6 feet tall. And you can see it is overtaking the trellis. I did trim it way back last summer, and that must have been a good thing. Because just in the last few weeks it has exploded. Exploded with new limbs and climbers, and exploded in pink roses everywhere.

As soon as I get some garden gloves on I will push and shove and twist the limbs and climbers back in the trellis.

I think I have a pink thumb with this one!!

gin

Brrrrr.......

2010-02-13T11:43:00.000-06:00

Of course, I will be the first to admit I know nothing about snow (growing up and living all my life in the south), so why are these little birds out in the snow. They have been out and about all day while it was snowing and after. They were everywhere. It looks like they were eating something on the snow. I did go out and put bread where they were so they would have something to eat. Their birdbath was snowed over and the bird feeders were all empty.

They seem to be enjoying themselves and not minding the cold temperatures.

The trees, the ground, the fence, the driveway, the house = all with a blanket of snow. Tiny icicles hanging from the roof.

I hope the old saying "this is the last freeze before spring" rings true this time around. How many times have I told you I LOVE SUMMER....

gin

2010-01-06T20:51:00.000-06:00

Happy Anniversary to Brandon and Julie on January 6th, 2010. Three years have flown by! Wishing ya'll many more.

P.S. Congratulations to Julie on her Bachelor of Science Degree from SLU in December.

gin

O-ke--do-key

2010-01-03T20:16:00.000-06:00

So you're tired of looking at my dog's Christmas pictures? Can't say that I blame you!

We had an uneventful New Year's Eve. Just the 2 of us. Our children had their own friends and parties to attend, and probably slept late New Year's Day. So we did our traditional New Year's Eve thing, which consisted of a few movies on the flat screen until midnight, eating and drinking. I must have drank a whole 6-pack (of coke) by myself from about 6pm to midnight. And that Blue Moon thing was going on, too. The Blue Moon thing took the place of fire works for us. It was a bright pretty moon here in the wilderness, with just a wide open sky with no city lights to interfere. I kept saying it really did look blue. (that could have been the 6-pack talking).

Time for back to work, getting the house back in order, and me waiting for summer to hit!

gin

Pictures without Santa

2009-12-15T08:48:00.005-06:00

Traditions of your children's picture with Santa is always loads of fun. Especially with babies and very young children who are afraid of Santa and are screaming and kicking while Santa is trying to hold them. I have had my share of those fun memories. It's like you really expect and have to have a picture of a child not liking Santa.

I don't have any small children anymore to get pictures sitting on Santa's lap. Even though I am sure my adult kids would be more than happy to sit on Santa's lap if they would be guaranteed the gift they asked for!

But, I did have fun taking pictures of our "child-like" "house-pet" dog. But, without Santa. Sorry they are blurry. But I'm holding cell phone camera with one hand and holding her down with the other.

This one she is barking at me.

This one I was bribing her with a treat.

Here she is finally getting use to the idea. But she wouldn't look at me.

Merry Christmas!

gin

Happy Thanksgiving

2009-11-29T18:35:00.004-06:00

God is good. God is great. Thank You for the food you give. Thank You for the birds that sing. Thank you God for everything. Amen.
This is the blessing we said as children at our table every meal. And we said the same blessing with our children as they were growing up.

(our actual Thanksgiving table set)

Another blessing I repeat occasionally is:

Bless my little kitchen Lord, I love it's every nook.
Bless me as I do my work, wash pots and pans and cook.
May the meals that I prepare be seasoned from above,
with Thy blessing and Thy grace, but most of all Thy love.
As we partake of earthly food, The table before us spread,
We’ll not forget to thank Thee, Lord, Who gives us daily bread.
Bless my little kitchen Lord, and those who enter in,.
May they find nought but joy and peace,
and happiness therein.

This blessing is one I memorized at a very early age. It was written on a plaque hanging in my grandma's kitchen. I can't count the number of times I read it over and over and over. And it has been embedded in my memory. I even say it sometimes as the blessing at our table.

Hope you had a wonderful Thanksgiving.

gin

I must . .

2009-11-25T11:46:00.000-06:00

...move on to fall. Have I ever told you that I love summer the best! Well, I must give it up, because Thanksgiving is here. I love Thanksgiving, so that"s when I start my fall.

I've said goodbye to my roses (even though they are still blooming) and saying hello to all the leaves that have fallen and to the cooler temperature. Not much has changed with the seasons, because there is still plenty of yard work to do.

The Thanksgiving Holiday - where you have family and friends over, and your go visit family and friends. Four days of travel for everyone to and fro.

A week to spend some time relaxing, playing, doing what you like to do best.

It's gonna be a good week!

gin

Home away from home

2009-11-15T21:29:00.000-06:00

Since Trent started working away from home. He takes his home with him. He's always wanted to work away. So he made a plan. He bought a fifth wheel travel trailer last year. And was just waiting for the chance to work away from home. His chance finally came and his work gave him a job at a shipyard.

Here is a look inside his home away from home.

It's really nice - two slide outs. With a lot of windows with natural light.

Nice black appliances, lot of cabinets with glass fronts, large dressers in bedrrooms and large closets.

Two bedrooms and 1 and 1/2 baths.

It works well for home away from home while working away.

gin

Remember when

2009-11-01T19:16:00.001-06:00

We celebrated our 35 wedding anniversary last week. No picture because husband does not want his picture plastered all over www.

Just to pharaphase:
Remember when we were young. Thought all we needed was love.
We lived and learned. There was joy and there was hurt.
Loved ones died and new ones born. Life was changed, dissasembled, rearranged.
The sound of little feet were music we danced to week to week
Thirty seemed so old. Now lookin' back it was just a stepping stone to where we are, where we've been. We said we'd do it all again.
When the children grow up and mve away, we won't be sad, we'll be glad for all the life we've had.
Remember when.

I love this Allen Jackson's song Remember When. It's on my music playlist on my side bar.
It tells the story of us. Even tho the words sound good, I still miss the good ole'days. But these days are just as good, but in a different way.

gin

Happy Anniversary to Us

2009-10-29T09:56:00.003-05:00

October 2009 = 35 years of marriage. It's been great!!
gin

Happy Birthday Trent

2009-10-21T09:39:00.000-05:00

Another year has flown by. Trent made 24 today. And he's the baby.
We celebrated eating out at Don's, had Baskin & Robbins ice cream cake, a ton of presents, and a lot of fun.

Where does the time go!. You are a great son and we are so proud of you!

Wishing you a great day and many more.

Love, Mom, Dad, Jennifer, Brandon, Julie

About the cow

2009-09-27T14:39:00.000-05:00

Regarding my previous post about all the truck accidents, I do have a report on the cow that was involved.
As the story went, there was one large cow standing in the road. And as the driver rounded the curve (at the posted speed limit) there before his very eyes was this large longhorn Texas cow just standing there.

Brakes were applied, in hopes of avoiding the accident, but unfortunately the poor cow was hit. And sadly did not recover. The cow died in the accident.

It might as well been a whole herd of cattle. Picture this as you are driving down the road.
And you just can't avoid the situation.

gin

Geez, gosh

2009-09-23T11:36:00.000-05:00

Remember this:

Well it now looks like this.
Trent hit a cow. That's what happens at 5am in the morning in the rural area 10 minutes from your house. Not just any cow, it was reported, but a huge long horn cow that was just there in the middle of the road and nothing you could do.

And this one:
Now looks like this:
Larry wrecked this one on his way home from work. That's what happens in the middle of no where between Baton Rouge and the MS state line.
These happened about 2 weeks apart. The most important thing - no one hurt and that's why we have insurance.

gin

One true fan

2009-09-21T19:06:00.000-05:00

One lucky TIGER sent me this picture of the LSU game in person in Washington played this weekend.

I knew she was on vacation in Seattle, Oregon, and CA and she had shown and told a lot of the places they were going and what they would be doing. But she didn't even mention this. I was surprised to say the least when I got this picture via cell camera.

Just a picture. No text, no words, no nothing! But then, the picture says it all and I didn't need any text. I knew she was there and cheering on the tigers.

I did text her back "U lucky tiger, U!!!!!

See all the purple there. I thought there sure are a lot of LSU fans there. But I find out that Washington is also purple.

Go here to check out her vacation story before they actually left on vacation. Even though I know it was her husband's idea to attend the game. But why not, since you're already there, and your vacation was already scheduled around the date and location. Go figure! It couldn't have worked out better. Wish I was there!

And of course, LSU won!!!!!!!!
gin

Something new

2009-09-13T22:13:00.000-05:00

We had to do this today. We had no choice and couldn't think about it twice. So we are gone shopping.
We got up this morning and the fridge was on the blink. Constantly running, kept hearing a drip, drip, drip. Couldn't be fixed. I don't know if I was excited or sad. Excited to get a brand new modern 21st century refrig or sad to have to spend that much money.

But since we had no choice, here it is.Now, you are asking yourself why didn't she get the new stainless still look? Well, I was going too, then I changed my mind, then I chose the stainless still again, then not. Decisions, decisions -- didn't know which to choose. The pros would be 1) stainless still is the most popular, 2) stainless steel looks fabulous; 3) everybody has the stainless steel or wants it. The cons would be 1) all my other appliances are new and they are white, 2) stainless steel takes a little more money 3) my kitchen is not a stainless still match.

So, after a few phone calls to see what "they" would choose, I choose white. Even though my phone consultations were split between white, black and stainless.
Jennifer was there when we brought it home. So I insisted she help me load the new one up with the stuff from the old one. She didn't mind, she just said "tell me in advance when ya'll are in work mode around here." We kind of catagorized the shelves. Like in the freezer - one shelf for chicken, one for beef, one for pork, one for veggies, one for desserts. one for misc. And the same for the fridge side.

Now, I love home magazine pictures. They are just so "perfect". So now I want my refrig to always look like this:
Or this:

In the end it is a good investment and I do like it.

It's the side by side, fridge on one side, freezer on the other, ice and water dispenser on door, nice, nice. I know, I know it's just a fridge!

And I'm trying to keep up with Brandon and Julie. They got a brand new stainless steel fridge last weekend! Theirs is gorgeous (as gorgeous as a fridge can be).

gin

One True Football Fan . . . . . . .

2009-09-08T13:29:00.000-05:00

Star Status

2009-09-03T09:21:00.000-05:00

This is Molly, a Poo-Chon (part poodle-part bichon).
Molly (Jennifer's dog) made her debut on a pet friendly blog.
Go here to see her.

Thank you Lani for finding Molly's story on my blog and asking to use her on the doggie blog.

gin

The Destroyer

2009-08-31T13:21:00.000-05:00

How does this sweet innocent little face . . . . . . .
turn into this destructive wild thing?

I see toilet paper scattered everywhere. . . hair equipment cord on the floor . . . and looks like that's not all. Molly is left alone all day while Jennifer is at work. She is usually put in her doggie house because she is known to be a destroyer at times. But some magical way she opens her doggie house door and escapes. And this is what Jennifer comes home to on occasion. Never really knowing what she will find when she gets home. And never really knowing if Molly escaped her doggie house during the day.

Memo to Molly: sometimes we just don't need to come home to a messy house at 5pm. We may have company, you know!

gin

All Washed Up

2009-08-16T21:13:00.000-05:00

A hot summer August day, working up a sweat, running here and there. We are drinking water, running water, using water constantly all day.

Trent's home. He's got a dirty truck, with a truck load of dirty laundry.
He's washing his truck inside and out. And I'm washing the laundry.

Molly also dropped by with Jennifer. She needs a bath, too. So in the tub she goes. She comes out so clean, fluffy, and smelly good!
We gotta eat you know. Then there's a sink of dirty dishes to wash.

Stop and think how much water a household uses in one day. It's just non stop, if you are actually doing something around the house. Our water is not measured by a water bill. We have a private water well. So I feel like "free" water all day. Even though Larry tells me it cost electricity to run the pump, that pulls the water from the ground, that fills the water tank that supplies the kitchen and the bathroom and the outside faucets. Ok, don't use the water unnecessary is the moral to this.

But, with the 3 hurricanes swirling out there, we should definitely have no shortage of water in the ground.

gin

Happy Birthday Dear Ol' Dad

2009-07-29T11:46:00.000-05:00

88 years young today! My what a good age that is. My what great health you have. My what a big family you have.

My dad, Dempsey.
He is the oldest of 10 children. He has 4 children: Cheryl, Peggy, Me, and Travis. 6 grandkids, and extended family in the grandkids spouses and grandchildren.
He likes politics (local, state, and federal). He keeps up with all the news. He reads his Bible daily. And he has no end to entertainment from the kids and grandkids in and out. Sometimes he can have a pretty hectic day. Also a granddaughter has the same birthday. Happy Birthday Aimee.

(Me on the right in white)

gin

2009-06-29T20:09:00.001-05:00

It's been 9 weeks since Jennifer's Rob died in the auto accident. She is moving to her new place. She found an apartment she liked and thought she could make her home there. For the last week us and her brothers and sisters-in-laws have been helping her empty her storage building. A few of us at a time take an afternoon and help her load and unload things. She is downsizing from a 3 bedroom 2 bath to a 1 bedroom 1 bath.

It's a nice, well kept, secure place for her at this time. It's a large complex, pool, workout center, pet friendly, gated community. That's her balcony up on the 2nd floor.
This is the apartment empty. Living room with french doors to balcony, large dining area, separate washer/dryer closet room off the kitchen. Nice walk in closet in bedroom and ample bathroom size.
Then as she moved the first trailer and truck load in, she kept saying "it's not going to fit."

She is right. All her stuff will not fit. She will still be storing a majority of her belongings.
She hopes to finish moving what she wants this week before the holiday. And have everything in order for the weekend.

When I go back to see her and everything is in order I will take finished pictures.

Congratulations on your new home Jennifer and Molly (her dog)!
gin

Going to the Chapel and . . . . . .

2009-06-28T02:06:00.000-05:00

They're going to get married. It's really a chapel in the woods. A one room church with a steeple and stained glass windows with 6 short pews on either side of the center isle.
This is the church where my nephew James and fiance" Beth got married Saturday. It was 142 miles from our house. Her parents are Methodist Pastor's and this is the church they pastor. It was a very small and quick wedding and reception. The church did have another building that was the fellowship hall. So after the ceremony, we walked across the yard to the other building for the reception. After the cake cutting, garter throwing, and bouquet throw the bride and groom drove away.

You don't see too many of these small church weddings anymore. A soloist/pianist sang 2 church songs before ceremony. There was no music at reception, no band - live or dj; there was no toast for the bride and groom; there was no first dance; and there was no decorated going away vehicle.
This is the bride and groom with the flower girl.
Congratulations James and Beth on your new beginning together!!!

gin

Happy Fathers Day

2009-06-22T01:33:00.000-05:00

It was a happy Father's Day.

First, we spent a few hours with my father just hanging out and visiting with himfor Father's day . It's always fun there, the kids are in and out, a sister lives next door and she is in and out. Everybody goes in and out 100 times, sometimes by their self, sometimes 2 or 3 go out together. Then they come back in, sit a while, pass a few jokes and laughs, and go back out. I don't know what all the action is outside. The only reason I go outside is if my cell phone rings, or if I go over to my sisters for a minute and then back out, or if I have to go to the truck for something. And then I am back inside.

Larry had to work, so me and the kids met him when he got off work at Ryan's to eat an early Sunday Supper for Father's Day -a nice steak, baked potato, veggies, hot rolls, and dessert of your choice. Sorry-a blurry fuzzy picture. But the food was good. I was gone to the restroom and took this picture on my way back.Then to his favorite store... a man's store....to him this store is a mall. Something there for everything he needs == clothes, shoes, sporting items, cooking items, household items... His favorite store is Bass Pro........

After a short shopping spree there, we said our goodbyes and we all split up and went our separate ways home for the evening.

This is the long road back to the wilderness!!!

gin

Gone Fishing

2009-06-19T17:50:00.000-05:00

Oh the days are hot! But I love 99 degeees. I love the sun, shorts, sunblock and tanning lotion, the water, and all the sweat that goes with it. So we packed up all we needed for the day and headed to the lake to do some fishing -- the boat and all the fishing equipment, picnic lunch consisting of peanut butter crackers, cold drinks, and bottled water. You just can't eat too much in high temperature weather outside. It'll make you sick!!

Got up at 4:30 am. And was in the lake by 6 am. A nice calm, warm morning. A lot of people already beat us there. But we were in no hurry, just wanted a day to relax.

We were in the water by sun up. Just in time to see the sun rise.

Time for relaxing. That's about all I did because I caught ZERO fish. Larry caught 5 bass. They ranged from 2-3 pounds. I just don't know why they would not bite my line. It could be I really wasn't trying very hard. I really didn't want to catch any and then have to deal with them when you get home. That's the worse part of the day I believe.

So I relaxingly would cast and reel, cast and reel, cast and reel. And when Larry would catch one, I would be so excited and take a picture and keep count and then change my bait to one like he caught the fish on. Still no fish for me!

One fish!
Two fish!

Three, Four and Five fish looked the same as fish One and Two. So I didn't put their picture up.

But what I did get was a nice beginning tan. I used the leftover bronzing inside/outside tan lotion that I used last year at the tanning bed. I haven't been to the tanning bed this year yet. But this stuff really worked well in the sun. I really didn't burn burn. Was red but the next 2 days I am Totally Tan.

By noon Larry's luck had ran out and he caught no more fish. So we boat rode to the other end of the lake where the sking area is. And just did some boat riding. That was very nice with the wind blowing in your face and sprays of water flying over you. We went 4 rounds around the sking area and then headed back to the landing.

The picture looks cloudy, but it wasn't. It was a bright sun shinny day.

gin

It's been awhile

2009-06-15T20:25:00.000-05:00

It's been some time since I have posted on either of my blogs. I will spare you the details of why, but it's been a personal family time with the death and loss of an immediate family member. Rob, our son-in-law, died in an auto accident on April 18.

But we know life goes on. We don't know what the next moment, next hour, or next day brings.

"For this God is our God for ever and ever; he will be our guide even unto death." Psalms 48:14.

gin

2009-02-22T19:00:00.000-06:00

I got to spend a few days down home. It was enjoyable. But not for a good reason. Peg had surgery. It was scheduled for an out patient, but it turned into 2 days. I went to take her to the hospital, stay with her, then bring her home.

So while at the hospital, I took some pictures of her 2 day stay. It was kind of like a vacation for me. And I told her I was going to do a story of her hospital stay so I could take pictures of everything. = I want show all of them, but just a few to give you an idea. This is her waiting before surgery.
She had to have a few test the next day, so I took a quick trip across the street to this:
She even told the nurses that she loved the food. No one understood quite why!!
She had visitors.
She got some flowers.

and finally we got to go home.
Her surgery was suppose to be out-patient gall bladder surgery. There was complications is why she stayed an extra day and a half.

She is doing fine. And I am glad I took pictures for 2 days. We enjoyed the laughs. I will leave the really good pictures for her to post. I don't want her to be mad at me for posting some that are really outrageously funny. I really had to refrain myself from posting those. Go here to see if she posted any on her blog!

gin

Water fun

2009-02-17T22:55:00.000-06:00

Go here to my other blog and look at some water fun!!

gin

The New Trent in 2009

2009-01-30T23:56:00.000-06:00

Trent has been full steam ahead for the last year.

First, in 2007 he lived in a mobile home on my home inherited property in Walker. Then in February 2008 he bought a nice cute brick house in Livingston. His first house at 22 years old.

He moved in enjoying his new house. He also got engaged. And then like the flick of a light switch he broke off the engagement. Then having been in the house for 10 months called us up and said I selling my house and buying a 5th wheel camper trailer to work out of state. We were not shocked, because Trent has a mind of his own! Within 2 weeks of his house being put on the market it sold in December.

He did just what he said. He bought this 5th wheel camper trailer.

Here he is moving it out to the woods on my home property in Walker. It kinda got stuck. But all is well now. It is very nice. Small of course compared to his 3 bedroom house. But it has 2 bedrooms 1.5 baths. Really cute, cute. It's all 1 person needs temporarily.

But he is still at the same job, goes to school 2 nights a week, and has not ventured out of state for working, yet!

He never seems to surprise us when he calls and says "I'm going to _____."

gin

Too much help

2009-01-26T15:56:00.000-06:00

I trying to get some sewing done. I use an upstairs room for my sewing and stuff.

I'm doing this project on the floor because my cutting table is taken over with pink for another project.

This is a valentine scrub top I am making for Jennifer for her to wear for valentines day at work.

Poochie just recently learned to go up and down the stairs. She now goes up and down constantly and just sits on the landing looking down thru the banister. Then she proceeded to visit me and attack my material and pattern. See the paper in her mouth.

Here she has grabbed the #6 piece of the pattern which is the pocket. She would not listen to me and give it back. She actually ate it. At least it is a piece that is easy to reproduce - just a square pocket.

And this is not the first time she has done this. I left things out one day and when I went upstairs there was newspaper that I had used to make a pattern all over the floor shredded into a lot of pieces. She got in a bag and got brand new wrapped in it's package binding unrolled all over the floor.

Poor Poochie, she trys to help too much.

gin

Happy Birthday

2009-01-19T14:59:00.000-06:00

Happy Birthday Larry, my husband of 34 years and father of our children. He is a loving husband and father. He is supportive in whatever his family's dreams and goals are. He is encouraging to each one of us to reach for our dreams and goals. He honors our God and lives by faith in our Living God. He is a great provider and teacher. He is the disciplinarian to our children, even when it may hurt him more than it does them.

After work we spent a quite evening at home with a cozy supper and birthday cake and ice cream for just us two. All the kids called today to "happy birthday" their dad. And his mom and sisters called too.

Happy Birthday and many more!! Love,
gin, brandon, julie, jennifer, rob, trent

Family Day

2009-01-16T11:47:00.001-06:00

Last week end me and my sisters' families got together for a birthday party for 2 year old Annalyce. She is my great-niece. She is a sweetheart. We managed to get a couple group pictures. We are missing a few members of the family who could not attend.

We had a good time. Enjoyed burgers and dogs with all the trimmings. I got to see Matt and Jill's new house. It's not new to them anymore. But it was the first time I have seen it. It is very lovely. Everything was so nice. We ate, visited. Watch Annalyce open gifts and eat ice cream and cake. And it was a Dora cake. Who doesn't like Dora? No matter how old you are. Dora is one popular girl!

It was fun. And I am looking forward to the next big get together. Then hopefully Trent, Rob, Larry, Bobbie, and Tim will get to be there. So good to spend time together!!

gin

Happy Anniversary

2009-01-06T06:28:00.001-06:00

To Brandon & Julie. Today is their 2nd wedding anniversary.
Wishing you two a great day together!!
Love, Mom Dad
Jennifer Rob
Trent

New sewer in the family

2009-01-01T19:29:00.000-06:00

Jennifer came today to visit while her husband was at work (It's New Years Day). We met her in town on her way so we could all eat lunch. Rob got her a sewing machine for Christmas and she brought it with her to get a little sewing lesson in. After we ate lunch we did a little shopping to get some fabric.

Once we made it back to the wilderness, we got busy with the sewing lesson. She bought some fish print fabric and wanted to make some pajama pants for him. I had a pattern already, so we got to work. She actually did all the cutting out, pinning, ironing and sewing. Now it is a fact that she took Home Ec in high school only a few years ago. She was not the sewing type at that time and did not have any interest in it what so ever. But once you get married, have your own home, and have some extra time your interest changes. (Or because your husband gives you a sewing machine for a gift you want to at least try your hand at it?) What ever the reason, Jennifer was very pleased with the out come of the fish pj pants for her husband.She did rather well for her second time to make something in her entire life. She was so funny - she kept asking if I was sure this would still be together after it was washed, and asking how does the sewing machine do this? She thought the sewing machine would do more of the work than it did. Like she had to keep the material straight under the foot, she thought the machine should take care of that!!

The finished fish pj pants!!

After she got home, Rob called me and said he had the fish pj pants on and he was very impressed. They fit perfect and he loved the fish print. He said there was no pockets though.
We will work on that for the next pair I assured him.

So watch out rest of the family --- she's making you some next!!!

gin

Happy New Year

2008-12-31T13:40:00.001-06:00

Check out my other blog Keepsake Moments and register to win my giveaway and then register with all the other 60 + participants for some great giveaways in Whirl Into Winter with Debi. It starts tomorrow Jan 1, 2009!!

gin

What a wonderful year

2008-12-28T14:49:00.000-06:00

2008 is drawing to an end. Like any other year, this year has had its pros and cons. So here's a look back over this year:

Let's start with Trent:
Trent bought a cute brick house in Livingston. He closed on the property and moved in March 1. He got engaged in May and they broke up in September. Trent sold his house in November and bought a 5th wheel trailer. He plans to work out of state 6 months at a time and will take the 5th wheel trailer to where he will be working and live there and then move back for the rest of the year. I don't know how this will work out, but we will see. At the moment he is parked on my family property in Walker.

Jennifer & Rob:
They celebrated their 1st year wedding anniversary in October.

Brandon & Julie:
They also celebrated their 1st year wedding anniversary this year and will celebrate their 2nd year wedding anniversary in January.

We bought a new boat this year, and have taken advantage of every chance we could to go on a fishing expedition.

The new Bass Pro opened in Denham Springs this year, and we spent our fair share of time shopping there.

Enjoyed celebrating each family members birthday and each holiday.
And there was the sadness in the loss of family members also.

There was snow in December.

Our old friends (Della & Ruben) from next door on Walker South also bought a "get-away" home in MS.

Finally got a job that I have stayed at longer than 3 months. I've been there a year now, only because the pay is good.

I can't not mention the 2008 Presidential election. No one knows what the president-elect will face in 2009. With the economy, wars, the bail-outs, and recession that is ending the old year 2008, we can only hope for a better 2009.

Gas prices are $1.46 a gallon. Earlier this year we were paying $3.89 a gallon.

There were some sad times that are rather personnel that I won't go into. But I will work on them and hope I can change them in the year 2009.

So here's to 2009, may God bless each one of you and your family in this new year, and may God Bless America in 2009.

gin

The Ritchie Family Christmas 2008

2008-12-26T11:00:00.001-06:00

Oh what fun it is to ride to mom and dad's in the wilderness.
What another great Christmas we enjoyed.
Christmas last more than 1 day around our family.

Several days before Christmas, all the girls in the family meet at one of our homes. This year it was at Bobbie's. We have a Christmas lunch, we say no gifts, and we do Peg's birthday. The day always has an unusual outcome, but needless to say it is always entertaining!

Christmas Eve with my side of the family with my father. We meet at my dad's. After all the families arrive and we sit around enjoying conversation and then do the gift thing. We enjoy some snacks and coca cola and Dr pepper.

Christmas morning and noon with our kids and their families. Plans were to be here by 10 am and we would do gifts first and then Christmas dinner and then we all go to husbands family because Brandon and Julie were leaving early to go back to her family's Christmas. But change in plans (because one group was late arriving). But no harm done, just re-group and proceed with the day.

Once everyone has arrive, we have Christmas dinner. We begin with saying Grace and thanking God for His Son born on this day. '

This was my Christmas table before anyone arrived.
This is my Christmas table with the damage being done....

We read the Christmas Story from Luck 2:10-14. Then there were the the exchange of gifts among all. We drew names so each person only had to give 1 gift. It isn't really necessary for each person to have to give all the other people a gift. That would be giving 12 gifts at 1 Christmas gathering and getting 12 gifts in returns. Because there's the other side of their family to do, too.

We had fun. Jennifer started with giving her gift to the name she drew. Then after that person opened his/her gift, he/she gave their gift to the one they drew, and so on. It does take quiet some time to get around to everyone and watch each one open their gift and see and hear their reaction. It was a very fun way to open gifts. Yes, this is antlers. This is the new thing you see == antlers on the windows of trucks. Instead of your college football team pennant waving, you see antlers on the truck!!

Oh, and my gift was this, a purse. I love it!!! Thank you Julie - she had my name.
Then, there were the Santa gifts and stocking to open. (of course Santa being mom and dad) These gifts everyone could open them all at the same time, because all gifts were just alike.Christmas evening with husbands parents and his siblings and their families. We went there in the after noon for just a short while to visit. It's always nice to see each other and catch up on each others news.

Then back to our house to eat Christmas supper. A short relaxation time. Then gather all the belongings and load up each vehicle for everyone to go back to their own home. Wait. Wait. Take this food care package I made for you!!

By 9 pm everyone is gone. What a wonderful day. I hate to see them leave. Snap out of it I tell myself -- get back in reality --- there is a kitchen and living room that needs my undivided attention to be cleaned up and put back in order!!!!

gin

Merry Christmas

2008-12-25T07:57:00.000-06:00

Wishing you a joyous Christmas.

The Spirit of Christmas is in the peace, joy and hope that it brings.

May it touch your heart and remain with you today and always.

May God Bless you and your family this Season.

For He is the Reason for the Season!

gin

playing in the snow

2008-12-13T17:11:00.001-06:00

Thursday was a snow day! In the south snow days are very few and very far between. Just husband and me at home to build a snowman.It was fun, but coooldddddd!! That's why my snowman is a so little. And he looks kind of cold too. If all the kids were here, we would have had a big big snowman. The snow was pretty for the short time it was here. But glad it's gone!!

gin

At our house....

2008-12-07T18:24:00.001-06:00

Decorations are going up and the Christmas tree lights are being plugged in.

My favorite ornament is a snowflake with with picture of the kids when they were little. The stockings are being hung, and the mantle and stair banister is beginning to twinkle. The mantle is set with 3 twinkling Christmas trees set on a blanket of lighted snow with a deer in the midst and candle lamps on each end. And my wire reindeer resting on the hearth.

The candles are lit with a glowing winter fragrance. My Santa plates are put in view with a candle lamp surrounded by 2 white milk glass reindeer. My table is set with a crystal bowl full of shiny red, green, blue, silver and gold glass ball ornaments. And I am using a table runner of green and gold with shiny glass beads on the end. This is one of the many table runners I made a few months ago.

The door wreath I made from live branches from the edge of the woods is being hung with a smile, while songs of Christmas can be heard in the background. I make a similar one every year. I have a round wire base, I wrap fresh branches around and attach with what ever I have at the time -- florist tape, string, twist ties, like I said whatever I have at the time. I will also cut some holly berry branches from the woods and attach them, and then dash a little glitter on the pine cones. It is hanging on the barn door right now until I finish.

The gifts will be wrapped. The menu planned. We'll ride around to see the lights. We'll be visiting family and friends. We'll attend Christmas plays and view the live Nativity Scene. Christmas Day will be here soon.

gin

In the "Dog House"

2008-12-03T02:00:00.000-06:00

Poochie went to the poochie parlor last week. It's called the "Dog House". She got a true doggie groom. Her coat has been long soft and silky. I brush her several times a week. I really hated to see it cut, but now with all the autumn leaves that has fallen she brings oodles of leaves inside. Now she looks like this.
This is Poochie running thru the leaves.
She's all grown up now with a grown up hair cut. The family canines came to visit for Thanksgiving. This is the trio:
Macy --- Molly ----- Poochie
gin

Thanksgiving Day

2008-11-28T01:03:00.001-06:00

Thanksgiving Day 2008 filled with family, food, and fun.

The table is garnished with traditional Thanksgiving turkey and all the trimmings.

We give thanks to our God for bountiful blessings.

After a delicious and ful-filling dinner we visited and shared stories of the past weeks and with expectations for the coming weeks.

Then outside we go to particiapte in a little family competiton, with gifts and prizes to be had by all. The weather outside is terrific. Such a beautiful day with partly clBaoudy in the low 70's. You can hear the crunch crunch on the fallen autumn leaves as we walk all around.

There is the archery competition. And 4-wheeler riding.

All the outside play worked up the appetite for a light supper of leaftovers.
A day well spent to renew family ties.

gin

Happy Thanksgiving

2008-11-27T07:28:00.000-06:00

Wising you and yours a blessed Thanksgiving Day.
gin

2008-11-16T07:11:00.000-06:00

gin

Heirlooms for you...

2008-11-14T08:18:00.000-06:00

The past few weeks I have completed 2 more quilts. I had one quilt top already put together, but never quilted. So I got busy with getting my batting, lining, new needle and thread together. I set up my quilt frame. I don't have a picture of it in action, but I will make a mental note to take a picture of quilting in progress.

The quilts I make are for my children and other family members. I pass them on to them sometimes as soon as they are made. And some I just stash in my antique cedar wardrobe to keep and have so that one day I can divide them among children and family. And of course some I really really like and I keep for myself!!

This quilt is very simple. Large squares from my "fabric stash" stripped together with this awesome shiny silky fabric.

Can you tell how pretty the stripping is? This is a single bed size quilt.

This next quilt,( I must confess), is kind of a "cheater" quilt. Well not kind of, it really is. I found this great piece of fabric. I liked it and bought all there was on the bolt while thinking "my it already looks like a quilt." So with keeping that in mind, I just teamed it up with batting and a coordinating matching sheet for the bottom and quilted it around the pre-printed design. And voila!! an instant quilt.

This one was so quick an easy. I will keep my eye open for some ideal fabric to do this again. I have a few more creations to work on in the coming weeks.

gin

Get well and other updates

2008-11-10T14:32:00.001-06:00

1. Brandon has strep throat. He missed most of all last week from work. He went to dr. got shot and medicine. He has been getting this quite often. I hope that early morning fishing trip on that cool morning out on the water didn't trigger the strep.

2. Trent has his new house up for sale. He hopes he sells!! We will help him move again.

3. Jennifer and Julie are the strong, healthy, take care of everyone girls. Thanks Jennifer and Julie for taking care of your men while they are sick.

While 2 of the guys are recuperating and while the girls are playing nurses, (which they aren't just playing, they are real nurses in their real life professions, Jennifer is a nurse now and Julie will graduate next Dec in medical socialwork) start making your Christmas list for Santa. Santa has already been in touch with me for the lists. So get the list to me ASAP!!

One last note of info: get ready for the Annual Ritchie Thanksgiving with competitions, games, and prizes to win!!!

gin

Thought for the day

2008-11-07T07:57:00.000-06:00

"Let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be acceptable to you, O LORD, my rock and my redeemer." Psalm 19:14 NRSV

Would you change the way you live if you knew that every word and thought would be examined by God first? David asks that God approve his words and thoughts as though they were sacrifices brought to the altar. As you begin each day, determine that God's love will guide what you say and how you think.Ask for God's help in controlling what you say.

gin

Morning Stroll

2008-11-05T04:37:00.000-06:00

I love taking a quick evening stroll. I am a fast walker so it becomes my exercise and a way to just release all the pinned up energy and stress and it relieves my boggled mind. But I have changed my evening walk to a morning walk because with the time change it's gets too dark too early to take my walk after I get home.

This morning it went like this:

6:15 - I am ready and am getting Poochie ready with her leash. If I don't take her she will bark the entire time I am gone and when I get back it will be a disaster waiting for me - chewed up paper, socks, shoes, etc. ( she has now chewed the corner of one of the bed shams and has torn a sofa pillow in shreds with white stuffing found everywhere).

6:25 - Out the door, hollering at Poochie to wait, and we here a snort, snort and then rustling in the leaves. Then we see the quick flash of 2 deer running away. These pictures are ones we took with our camo digital electronic camera that you hide in the woods and it takes pictures by motion detection.

So I'm using these pictures we had already taken because I did not have my cell phone camera with me. And of course by the time I could snap it they would be gone.

6:30 - So I go down the beaten path which I have made into my walking track, and I tripped over something and down on the ground I rolled. And I seemed to have rolled and tumbled a few feet or so away. You know the feeling when your going down and you just can't stop? Well that's what it was like. I had let go of Poochie's leash and she was way gone. But when I sat up and kind of laughed at my self and fussing at myself for getting dirty, Poochie must have heard me because she ran back to me as if to see if I was ok.

6:45 - I gave up and went back to the house to get ready for work again!

I'll try again tomorrow morning!

gin