We had fast Sunday today, since it will be General Conference next week. Otherwise, it was pretty much a normal day. Well, I forgot my computer (I thought it was in the bag, but it wasn't. Oh well!) Fortunately, the lesson didn't require it so much today. We will do the Family Search part next time. It usually takes two weeks for each lesson anyway.
From there on, though, the day was not quite as usual. The kids didn't come over for dinner, as we had to go to a high priests quorum meeting at the stake center at 6:30, so we wouldn't have had enough time to even eat. In fact, Bill got home, grabbed an apple and some food bars, and we went right back out in order to get to the meeting on time. It was a good meeting, although I must admit that I am a little bit worn out on the missionary stuff. That was the message in our fifth Sunday combined meeting earlier and that was pretty much what they talked about tonight. It was all good, but I would really like to hear about something else. We seem to have gotten into a missionary mode - and I sometimes feel it is at the expense of teaching anything else, that we might actually need more. Oh, well - just the rant of a rebel, I guess.
It has been a good Sunday, filled with many spiritual moments. And it is still my favorite day of the week!
Monday, March 31, 2014
Sunday, March 30, 2014
March 29th - Family History Fair
Today I spent at the church attending a Family History Fair. It was co-sponsored by the church, DAR, SAR, and Georgia Genealogical Society. They had four class periods, with three choices per period. I took the classes on military pensions, genealogy proof standards, land grants, and local libraries. They were all really good. There was a really good turnout. I don't know how many, but had to be 200, probably more. I saw a lot of people from the community, as well as members. It was a great way to spend a Saturday.
Of course, that means I didn't do much at home! I did get two loads of laundry done. Bill worked on the taxes while I was gone and got those just about finished. We have a couple of things to look into for sure to see if we can reduce it a little more.
Later in the afternoon, he took a couple of the young men to help someone move something heavy and then they went for some food afterwards. That was about the time I managed to sneak in a short nap.
This evening, I was still tired, so I watched the Women's Broadcast at home. It was really good. Bill sat and watched most of it, too, and was very impressed. It was a wonderful way to end a good day.
Of course, that means I didn't do much at home! I did get two loads of laundry done. Bill worked on the taxes while I was gone and got those just about finished. We have a couple of things to look into for sure to see if we can reduce it a little more.
Later in the afternoon, he took a couple of the young men to help someone move something heavy and then they went for some food afterwards. That was about the time I managed to sneak in a short nap.
This evening, I was still tired, so I watched the Women's Broadcast at home. It was really good. Bill sat and watched most of it, too, and was very impressed. It was a wonderful way to end a good day.
Saturday, March 29, 2014
March 28th - I Did It!
It was a rainy, ugly day today - the kind where getting out of bed is not even fun. But, I get out of bed anyway - can't stand to lie there once I am awake! Once I got the dishwasher going after breakfast, I went straight to the computer and opened up all the family history stuff. And, yes, I spent the rest of the day right there!
I have been working on my grandfather's siblings. I already had their basic information, but I have been trying to fill in their stories and work on their children. I spent most of the day today working on Sofus, who drank strychnine and died when he was about 21 in 1915. He had married a young woman whose parents were very much opposed to him. When she had a baby, she stayed at her parents for the laying in. Right after the baby was born, it died. Whether of natural causes or by a little help from the wife's mother has always been a matter of dispute in the family. She then refused to let Sofus see her daughter and told him he would never see her again. In his despair, he bought the poison on his way home and had already had some by the time he got there and realized what a mistake he had made. They got a doctor and did everything to save him, but it was futile. I had always wondered about the wife, Mary. How did the rest of her life go? It has taken a long time just to find out her name, but today I was able to work back and get a bit of a picture of the rest of her story. She lived with her parents, eventually remarrying when she was 41 years old. I have not found any additional children, but I still have a couple of places to look. Bottom line, it was a fun day for me!
And then, to top off my day, we went over to babysit with the kids, so Lisa and David could have a date night. They just went out to eat, but they still need that little time alone. We had a ball with the kids. As usual, they had us laughing. They had just gotten into bed when Lisa and David got home, so they were back up within minutes. I hope they eventually calmed down so everyone could sleep!
I have been working on my grandfather's siblings. I already had their basic information, but I have been trying to fill in their stories and work on their children. I spent most of the day today working on Sofus, who drank strychnine and died when he was about 21 in 1915. He had married a young woman whose parents were very much opposed to him. When she had a baby, she stayed at her parents for the laying in. Right after the baby was born, it died. Whether of natural causes or by a little help from the wife's mother has always been a matter of dispute in the family. She then refused to let Sofus see her daughter and told him he would never see her again. In his despair, he bought the poison on his way home and had already had some by the time he got there and realized what a mistake he had made. They got a doctor and did everything to save him, but it was futile. I had always wondered about the wife, Mary. How did the rest of her life go? It has taken a long time just to find out her name, but today I was able to work back and get a bit of a picture of the rest of her story. She lived with her parents, eventually remarrying when she was 41 years old. I have not found any additional children, but I still have a couple of places to look. Bottom line, it was a fun day for me!
And then, to top off my day, we went over to babysit with the kids, so Lisa and David could have a date night. They just went out to eat, but they still need that little time alone. We had a ball with the kids. As usual, they had us laughing. They had just gotten into bed when Lisa and David got home, so they were back up within minutes. I hope they eventually calmed down so everyone could sleep!
Friday, March 28, 2014
March 27th - Open Day
I had absolutely nothing on my schedule today - well, there was the note about returning books to the library - but that was it! So, I enjoyed myself - doing 4 loads of laundry, straightening the house, going to the library to return and pick up books, cruising to Target to pick up some specials and some other items that have been on the list for weeks, other miscellaneous things, and finally some family history. I capped it all off with a very short nap.
So how does a totally open day get so filled up so quickly? It was a good day - got a lot accomplished that needed to be done. However, I had hoped to spend most of the day on family history and it ended up being one of the smaller bites of time. Well, maybe tomorrow!
So how does a totally open day get so filled up so quickly? It was a good day - got a lot accomplished that needed to be done. However, I had hoped to spend most of the day on family history and it ended up being one of the smaller bites of time. Well, maybe tomorrow!
Thursday, March 27, 2014
March 26th - Family History, Again!
I wasn't sure we would be able to have the family history center open this morning since they are in the process of moving to new rooms in the building. It wasn't until late Tuesday evening that the director called and said he had four of the computers up and working, so we could open. It was still a bit of mess, but at least we could be there.
I picked up my friend, as usual, and we were excited to see what was happening. There are quite a few things that have to be cleared out yet, but it will be very nice when everything is done and set up as it will be in the end. We will have 8 computers, instead of four, plus will be better suited to do training right there for small groups. The readers are in the third part of the room, with the big doors that will close to make it dark. We are excited. There were just the three of us, but we managed to get some work done on our own family history, so it was successful in that respect, too.
Afterwards, we got some lunch and then headed on home. We did a rather long lunch, as we were having such a good time chatting. By the time I got home, I had a couple of quick things to do around the house. I finally gave it up and went to take a short nap, but I was just reading when Bill got home, a little early. We talked a bit and then he had to run out for one more errand and I got the short nap, finally.
This evening, we had an appointment to meet with the stake president. We were not sure why - but thought it might be about releasing him from the bishopric, as it has been mentioned. He served with the previous bishopric, too, so it has been quite a while. Anyway, it turned out the stake president was really just on a fact-finding mission to get a better feel of where we were and if a mission might be a possibility. We told him that a full-time mission was probably not possible, as we just didn't have the finances. He suggested a possible stake service mission, one that he is feeling is very important right now. We discussed it a little and will get back together later to talk about it some more. Bill was actually quite excited about it, so we shall see if we are eventually led that way.
Billy called this evening for a quick chat. He sounds good. He is really liking his job and his boss has renewed his contract and hinted about his becoming a permanent employee. If they can come to an agreement about it all sometime in the future, he may consider it.
So, all in all, a very good day.
I picked up my friend, as usual, and we were excited to see what was happening. There are quite a few things that have to be cleared out yet, but it will be very nice when everything is done and set up as it will be in the end. We will have 8 computers, instead of four, plus will be better suited to do training right there for small groups. The readers are in the third part of the room, with the big doors that will close to make it dark. We are excited. There were just the three of us, but we managed to get some work done on our own family history, so it was successful in that respect, too.
Afterwards, we got some lunch and then headed on home. We did a rather long lunch, as we were having such a good time chatting. By the time I got home, I had a couple of quick things to do around the house. I finally gave it up and went to take a short nap, but I was just reading when Bill got home, a little early. We talked a bit and then he had to run out for one more errand and I got the short nap, finally.
This evening, we had an appointment to meet with the stake president. We were not sure why - but thought it might be about releasing him from the bishopric, as it has been mentioned. He served with the previous bishopric, too, so it has been quite a while. Anyway, it turned out the stake president was really just on a fact-finding mission to get a better feel of where we were and if a mission might be a possibility. We told him that a full-time mission was probably not possible, as we just didn't have the finances. He suggested a possible stake service mission, one that he is feeling is very important right now. We discussed it a little and will get back together later to talk about it some more. Bill was actually quite excited about it, so we shall see if we are eventually led that way.
Billy called this evening for a quick chat. He sounds good. He is really liking his job and his boss has renewed his contract and hinted about his becoming a permanent employee. If they can come to an agreement about it all sometime in the future, he may consider it.
So, all in all, a very good day.
Wednesday, March 26, 2014
March 25th - A Little More Quiet Today
I was surprised when I rechecked my calendar and realized that I had no commitments today! Yah! It didn't mean I had nothing to do, but at least I could do it all whenever I felt like it. And the truth was, I didn't feel like doing anything much at all!
As it turned out, I did a load of laundry and some straightening up around the house, but that was about it as far as "work" went. What did happen was that I got into some family history and got "lost" for a while. Fun time - much better than working or anything else.
I also actually cooked dinner this evening, so I should get a few extra points for that. Just as I finished that, Lisa called and said that she needed to run to the next town the other side of me to exchange something, and since the kids had gone to church with David for activity night, she offered to pick me up to go with her. It was fun having some time with just the two of us. After exchanging the item, we went to Red Robin and had a milk shake. Yummy! It made for a nice evening.
Some days just seem to have a happy feel - today was one of those days!
As it turned out, I did a load of laundry and some straightening up around the house, but that was about it as far as "work" went. What did happen was that I got into some family history and got "lost" for a while. Fun time - much better than working or anything else.
I also actually cooked dinner this evening, so I should get a few extra points for that. Just as I finished that, Lisa called and said that she needed to run to the next town the other side of me to exchange something, and since the kids had gone to church with David for activity night, she offered to pick me up to go with her. It was fun having some time with just the two of us. After exchanging the item, we went to Red Robin and had a milk shake. Yummy! It made for a nice evening.
Some days just seem to have a happy feel - today was one of those days!
Tuesday, March 25, 2014
March 24th - Busy Start ot the Week
Started my Monday morning doing the usual routine. Then about 11:00, I took off to have lunch with a friend at her new house, so I could see the house and catch up with her. On my way, right in front of me, I car wiped out a motorcycle. Horrible! Car ran the red light and t-boned the cycle straight on. Turns out it was a police officer, possibly a back injury, but hopefully will be OK. It is amazing, to tell you the truth. Anyway, it all delayed me some, but I made it to Sara's house a little bit late.
We had a nice tour of the house and then lunch. The house is huge - every room is oversized, very nice layout. I think they will really love it once they get settled. We also had a chance to chat and get caught up on things. Plus, I enjoyed seeing her two little ones - so cute. Lisa had loaned her some things for her son's third birthday party, so I also carried those things back, as well as a loaf of homemade bread as a thank you to Lisa. I really enjoyed my couple of hours.
Back home, I worked at the desk a while, trying to get a few things out of the way, as well as working on my Sunday lesson and some other family history stuff.
I then went out to visit teach one of my sisters who has a birthday today. I took her a basket with some of the cookies that Ashby and I made last night. My companion was taking her own daughter for a medical procedure, so I just went alone. We had a fun chat. She had taken a fall on the ice a few weeks ago and is still wearing a brace, but the bone bruise seems to be healing and she is getting around better. She has her follow-up with the ortho on Monday.
Back home once again, I had some left over noodles for my dinner. Then Lisa and the kids dropped by to pick up the bread and things. David was working until it got dark, so they ran by just to see him a bit and then came over here for a little bit. The kids are always so funny. Ashby cuddled up in my lap in the big chair. Nothing is better! Brooks on the other hand kept searching for a snack and then announced that he needed to go out in the yard. Clear boy - girl differences with those two!
It has been a good-bad day, for sure. The accident is still in my thoughts and I do hope the officer recovers totally. Motorcycles are so fun to ride, but so dangerous. Even careful cyclists get hit - like today. It was 100% the driver's fault, not even close, but the cyclist is still the one paying for her carelessness. I have some friends who ride - I hope they all stay safe!
We had a nice tour of the house and then lunch. The house is huge - every room is oversized, very nice layout. I think they will really love it once they get settled. We also had a chance to chat and get caught up on things. Plus, I enjoyed seeing her two little ones - so cute. Lisa had loaned her some things for her son's third birthday party, so I also carried those things back, as well as a loaf of homemade bread as a thank you to Lisa. I really enjoyed my couple of hours.
Back home, I worked at the desk a while, trying to get a few things out of the way, as well as working on my Sunday lesson and some other family history stuff.
I then went out to visit teach one of my sisters who has a birthday today. I took her a basket with some of the cookies that Ashby and I made last night. My companion was taking her own daughter for a medical procedure, so I just went alone. We had a fun chat. She had taken a fall on the ice a few weeks ago and is still wearing a brace, but the bone bruise seems to be healing and she is getting around better. She has her follow-up with the ortho on Monday.
Back home once again, I had some left over noodles for my dinner. Then Lisa and the kids dropped by to pick up the bread and things. David was working until it got dark, so they ran by just to see him a bit and then came over here for a little bit. The kids are always so funny. Ashby cuddled up in my lap in the big chair. Nothing is better! Brooks on the other hand kept searching for a snack and then announced that he needed to go out in the yard. Clear boy - girl differences with those two!
It has been a good-bad day, for sure. The accident is still in my thoughts and I do hope the officer recovers totally. Motorcycles are so fun to ride, but so dangerous. Even careful cyclists get hit - like today. It was 100% the driver's fault, not even close, but the cyclist is still the one paying for her carelessness. I have some friends who ride - I hope they all stay safe!
Monday, March 24, 2014
March 23rd - Aren't Sundays Great?
I guess I should say "ditto" when it comes to Sunday posts - always wonderful.
And, today was no exception. I had the usual quiet morning, followed by excellent meetings. My class went well. I have a group this time that are talkers, so it is going to be even harder to get everything covered. They are also very excited and it is a lot of fun. One of them mentioned that he got on his computer one day and started family history about 10 in the morning and at 10 that evening, he realized he had to stop to prepare his seminary lesson for the morning. He was surprised it was so addictive! Been there, done that - so I totally understand.
Back home, I put the finishing touches on dinner. We had homemade chicken and noodles (so good!), brussels sprouts and spinach. Lisa brought over a fresh pineapple that they had gotten at a great price, so that was the perfect finish to the meal. Got a big laugh out of Brooks - he didn't want to sit at the table to eat (he had had his nap interrupted.) Then he went outside and suddenly came back in wanting his noodles so he could sit at the patio table - all by himself - to eat. He ate two big bowls and we had the biggest laugh watching him. I don't know what he was pretending, but he was hilarious!
Later, Ashby decided that we needed to make chocolate chip cookies, so we did just that. She really just wants to taste the dough and lick the beaters. Once the cookies were starting to come out and were cooling, she had fun serving everyone from a tray and getting them something to drink. I think she was playing waitress at that point.
Since the kids had both napped, they were able to stay a little longer and we had a really fun evening. Like I always say - Sundays are the best!
And, today was no exception. I had the usual quiet morning, followed by excellent meetings. My class went well. I have a group this time that are talkers, so it is going to be even harder to get everything covered. They are also very excited and it is a lot of fun. One of them mentioned that he got on his computer one day and started family history about 10 in the morning and at 10 that evening, he realized he had to stop to prepare his seminary lesson for the morning. He was surprised it was so addictive! Been there, done that - so I totally understand.
Back home, I put the finishing touches on dinner. We had homemade chicken and noodles (so good!), brussels sprouts and spinach. Lisa brought over a fresh pineapple that they had gotten at a great price, so that was the perfect finish to the meal. Got a big laugh out of Brooks - he didn't want to sit at the table to eat (he had had his nap interrupted.) Then he went outside and suddenly came back in wanting his noodles so he could sit at the patio table - all by himself - to eat. He ate two big bowls and we had the biggest laugh watching him. I don't know what he was pretending, but he was hilarious!
Later, Ashby decided that we needed to make chocolate chip cookies, so we did just that. She really just wants to taste the dough and lick the beaters. Once the cookies were starting to come out and were cooling, she had fun serving everyone from a tray and getting them something to drink. I think she was playing waitress at that point.
Since the kids had both napped, they were able to stay a little longer and we had a really fun evening. Like I always say - Sundays are the best!
Sunday, March 23, 2014
March 22nd - Busy Day
I had my two young women house cleaners come again today. They had contacted me to see if it was time to come again, so I guess they were excited about the job. They did a great job, again, and were able to do it in much less time. I think they have figured out a better routine. I had straightened the house before the came, so they were able to just clean away while I worked at the desk.
I also managed to get four loads of laundry done. I even stewed a chicken for tomorrow and made some homemade noodles so we can have chicken and noodles. Yummy! Problem is, I have to roll out the noodles by hand and it takes a while. Got it done, though.
In the office, I did some cleaning off of the desk stuff, as well as a bunch of other little stuff that had piled up. I managed to put in a really nice chunk of time on family history itself. Working on another story from Bill's family and finding more documents to help support the story.
I worked so hard on everything (Ha!) that I ended up taking a short nap late in the afternoon. I also finished another book - a real loser - glad it is finished! I started another one this evening that looks to be quite good. Since I mostly read books that have been recommended from one source or another, I rarely get a bad one. I guess it has to happen sometimes, though. When I read the Kindle, on the other hand, I find more bad ones since I have all freebies on there.
Bill had to go to a seminary social this evening, so I had a quiet evening, relaxing. I watched an old episode of Law & Order while I had some dinner and then headed off to bed early to start my new book.
It has been a good and productive day.
I also managed to get four loads of laundry done. I even stewed a chicken for tomorrow and made some homemade noodles so we can have chicken and noodles. Yummy! Problem is, I have to roll out the noodles by hand and it takes a while. Got it done, though.
In the office, I did some cleaning off of the desk stuff, as well as a bunch of other little stuff that had piled up. I managed to put in a really nice chunk of time on family history itself. Working on another story from Bill's family and finding more documents to help support the story.
I worked so hard on everything (Ha!) that I ended up taking a short nap late in the afternoon. I also finished another book - a real loser - glad it is finished! I started another one this evening that looks to be quite good. Since I mostly read books that have been recommended from one source or another, I rarely get a bad one. I guess it has to happen sometimes, though. When I read the Kindle, on the other hand, I find more bad ones since I have all freebies on there.
Bill had to go to a seminary social this evening, so I had a quiet evening, relaxing. I watched an old episode of Law & Order while I had some dinner and then headed off to bed early to start my new book.
It has been a good and productive day.
Saturday, March 22, 2014
March 21st - Much better day!
I felt much better today, so I guess whatever I had was like 18 hours or something. I had some cereal for breakfast, and a banana, and did fine. Thank goodness, it was a short one!
I had a little catching up to do around the house - changed the sheets, did a couple of loads of laundry, straightened the house, especially the kitchen, etc. My energy level was a little low, but I got it all done.
I spent the rest of my time in the office - at the computer or doing some other things. I was even able to spend some time on family history. Lisa called this afternoon and we had a nice "catch up" call. We usually get together during the week at least once, but this week has not allowed that, so we just talked. Ashby had Wild West Day at school and went in her costume and was so cute! Lisa helped with centers for the first bit and got a chance to talk to the teacher. She commented that they are both (the teachers) amazed at Ashby's reading and that they have run out of material to challenge her, since she is already passing second grade level. Lisa assured them that she had tons of books at home from when she taught 2nd and 4th grades and she would be plenty challenged. Brooks got to have a play date while Lisa was at the school and he loved it.
I didn't want to nap today, but I felt pretty exhausted by late afternoon, so I went and rested and read my book for a bit. I didn't fall asleep, but an hour of resting was enough to get me through. It is so nice to be feeling better! We even got my car back this evening, so I will not be carless anymore!
I had a little catching up to do around the house - changed the sheets, did a couple of loads of laundry, straightened the house, especially the kitchen, etc. My energy level was a little low, but I got it all done.
I spent the rest of my time in the office - at the computer or doing some other things. I was even able to spend some time on family history. Lisa called this afternoon and we had a nice "catch up" call. We usually get together during the week at least once, but this week has not allowed that, so we just talked. Ashby had Wild West Day at school and went in her costume and was so cute! Lisa helped with centers for the first bit and got a chance to talk to the teacher. She commented that they are both (the teachers) amazed at Ashby's reading and that they have run out of material to challenge her, since she is already passing second grade level. Lisa assured them that she had tons of books at home from when she taught 2nd and 4th grades and she would be plenty challenged. Brooks got to have a play date while Lisa was at the school and he loved it.
I didn't want to nap today, but I felt pretty exhausted by late afternoon, so I went and rested and read my book for a bit. I didn't fall asleep, but an hour of resting was enough to get me through. It is so nice to be feeling better! We even got my car back this evening, so I will not be carless anymore!
Friday, March 21, 2014
March 20th - YUCK!
I woke up early this morning feeling a bit nauseous. And it just got worse. Needless to say, I spent the entire day in bed. I only up-chucked once, but that was too many. I slept, ate nothing, read a little when I was awake, and just lay there the rest of the time.
We were supposed to have the Elders for dinner, but that was cancelled. Bill called them and then took them some Chinese for dinner. He also brought some home for himself, along with some soup. I had a half cup or so of the soup - first thing I had had all day. I was feeling better, so I had a bit of ice cream later.
Then it was just back to bed. Not a very exciting day to write about!
We were supposed to have the Elders for dinner, but that was cancelled. Bill called them and then took them some Chinese for dinner. He also brought some home for himself, along with some soup. I had a half cup or so of the soup - first thing I had had all day. I was feeling better, so I had a bit of ice cream later.
Then it was just back to bed. Not a very exciting day to write about!
Thursday, March 20, 2014
March 19th - Thank Goodness for Good Friends!
I am still carless today, but I had a meeting that I needed to attend. I usually pick up a friend and we attend this genealogy study group together. She is on the way and it is easy to do. Today, she came and picked me up. For her, it meant backtracking quite a ways, but she was willing and I so appreciated it. What would we do without friends?
The meeting was good, too. I had to give a book review, which went well. The other presentations were good, too. This is the community group that meets at the church each month. It is beginning to function better. It was just started last summer, so there have been some pains getting things up and running smoothly, but it seems to be happening finally. I am on the steering committee, so stay after a short time to help plan future meetings. We have tentative plans up through June.
We stopped and got lunch on our way home, and then I spent the rest of the day at home. Bill got home not long after I did, but he is still fighting that cold, so he pretty much slept the afternoon away. I, on the other hand, worked on family history. Among other things, I finished up my grandfather's WWI story, although when I reread it one final time, I decided on a few more changes. They are minor, but I think it will make the story flow better. You would think I am publishing something! Well, actually, it will be attached to everything so I guess that is a kind of publishing. I will also send it to my cousins and I don't want them to think I can't write!
When I first got home, I put some leftover pork roast in the crock pot, along with all sorts of veggies - potatoes, carrots, onions, peppers, zucchini, cabbage, maybe something else I don't remember - then seasoned it with good old Tony's. It was really good - Bill sure liked it.
The meeting was good, too. I had to give a book review, which went well. The other presentations were good, too. This is the community group that meets at the church each month. It is beginning to function better. It was just started last summer, so there have been some pains getting things up and running smoothly, but it seems to be happening finally. I am on the steering committee, so stay after a short time to help plan future meetings. We have tentative plans up through June.
We stopped and got lunch on our way home, and then I spent the rest of the day at home. Bill got home not long after I did, but he is still fighting that cold, so he pretty much slept the afternoon away. I, on the other hand, worked on family history. Among other things, I finished up my grandfather's WWI story, although when I reread it one final time, I decided on a few more changes. They are minor, but I think it will make the story flow better. You would think I am publishing something! Well, actually, it will be attached to everything so I guess that is a kind of publishing. I will also send it to my cousins and I don't want them to think I can't write!
When I first got home, I put some leftover pork roast in the crock pot, along with all sorts of veggies - potatoes, carrots, onions, peppers, zucchini, cabbage, maybe something else I don't remember - then seasoned it with good old Tony's. It was really good - Bill sure liked it.
Wednesday, March 19, 2014
March 18th - Stuck at Home!
With the car in the garage, I am stuck at home. That isn't a complaint, actually, since I tend to like to be stuck at home. Since they didn't get it done today, though, I would be stuck at home again tomorrow, but I have a friend who will give me a ride then, since it will be a busy day.
I went through the usual routine stuff around the house, including a couple of loads of laundry. My highlight for the day was having a dear friend drop by. Lisa had left some things at the house from the Construction birthday party she did for Brooks last December. My friend is doing the same kind of birthday party for her little boy, so she stopped to pick up those things. We had a nice chat. I really enjoyed it. We will be doing lunch one day next week, so I have that to look forward to. She had her little girl with her - so cute! I want to get my hands on her, but she was rather clingy to her mommy today.
My other fun time of the day was working on family history again. I had a woman who had come to the center last week give me a call and ask for some help. I will take some things to show her when we are both at the meeting tomorrow. I did a little bit of several things - working on upcoming lesson, some actual research, etc.
Bill got home early since he couldn't do the job that had been scheduled. He seems to be fighting a cold. I am still less than 100% because of the sinus thing, but I certainly felt better than yesterday! We both ended up napping in the afternoon.
So, stuck at home is not a bad thing! I, for one, had a very enjoyable day.
I went through the usual routine stuff around the house, including a couple of loads of laundry. My highlight for the day was having a dear friend drop by. Lisa had left some things at the house from the Construction birthday party she did for Brooks last December. My friend is doing the same kind of birthday party for her little boy, so she stopped to pick up those things. We had a nice chat. I really enjoyed it. We will be doing lunch one day next week, so I have that to look forward to. She had her little girl with her - so cute! I want to get my hands on her, but she was rather clingy to her mommy today.
My other fun time of the day was working on family history again. I had a woman who had come to the center last week give me a call and ask for some help. I will take some things to show her when we are both at the meeting tomorrow. I did a little bit of several things - working on upcoming lesson, some actual research, etc.
Bill got home early since he couldn't do the job that had been scheduled. He seems to be fighting a cold. I am still less than 100% because of the sinus thing, but I certainly felt better than yesterday! We both ended up napping in the afternoon.
So, stuck at home is not a bad thing! I, for one, had a very enjoyable day.
Tuesday, March 18, 2014
March 17th - Happy St. Paddy's Day!
Yes, it is Paddy, not Patty. The Irish have very strong feelings about that. My DNA results show I am 15% Irish - not a surprise, of course. I already knew that my great-grandmother's family was Irish. Even so, it seems more "official" now!
And how did I celebrate? Well, first we took the car in to the garage to get the leak fixed. It will tomorrow before we get it back and after we shell out something around $400. Of course, it isn't a cheap hose - it has to be the metal hose or whatever that hooks up to several different places. I don't really know - just that it wasn't the cheapest way out!
The rest of the day I was stuck at home. It didn't matter all that much, though, since this last bad weather has moved in and my sinus headache and sore throat have returned with a vengeance. I got a few things done around the house before I just gave up and went to bed for a few hours. I finished another book, Stella Bain by Anita Shreve, which was pretty good. It is interesting that I have been immersed in WWI as I have been working on my grandfather's story. This book is set in WWI era, so I caught many of the details that I probably would have just skimmed over. Even stranger, I picked up the next book that I need to read (based on when they have to get back to the library) and it is also set with a WWI background.
Since I felt so lousy, we didn't go to Empty Nesters this evening. I just didn't think I could sit there all evening and pretend to be nice. I know we missed a fun evening, though. Personally, I ate a bowl of cereal for dinner (I honestly don't remember the last time I did that - it has really been years and years) and just collapsed back in bed with the new book.
Tomorrow will be better!
And how did I celebrate? Well, first we took the car in to the garage to get the leak fixed. It will tomorrow before we get it back and after we shell out something around $400. Of course, it isn't a cheap hose - it has to be the metal hose or whatever that hooks up to several different places. I don't really know - just that it wasn't the cheapest way out!
The rest of the day I was stuck at home. It didn't matter all that much, though, since this last bad weather has moved in and my sinus headache and sore throat have returned with a vengeance. I got a few things done around the house before I just gave up and went to bed for a few hours. I finished another book, Stella Bain by Anita Shreve, which was pretty good. It is interesting that I have been immersed in WWI as I have been working on my grandfather's story. This book is set in WWI era, so I caught many of the details that I probably would have just skimmed over. Even stranger, I picked up the next book that I need to read (based on when they have to get back to the library) and it is also set with a WWI background.
Since I felt so lousy, we didn't go to Empty Nesters this evening. I just didn't think I could sit there all evening and pretend to be nice. I know we missed a fun evening, though. Personally, I ate a bowl of cereal for dinner (I honestly don't remember the last time I did that - it has really been years and years) and just collapsed back in bed with the new book.
Tomorrow will be better!
Monday, March 17, 2014
March 16th - Busy Sunday for Me!
As usual, my Sunday was the best day of the week, even though there were a couple of negatives. Like, it is raining again! Enough, already! Oh, yeah, and my car overheated on the way to church. Bill had noticed a leak yesterday, but said it would be fine for the drive to church. Oops, it started steaming just as I pulled into my parking spot at church. He checked it after church and it was more than a little leak, so I drove the van and he came later with the car. The bishop followed him home to make sure he made it, which he did. Tomorrow it will obviously have to go to the garage.
Even with those "not so goods", it was a very good day. The talks in Sacrament Meeting were really good and a musical number was wonderful. The brother who sang in the duet was also the speaker and he always does an excellent job.
My Sunday School class was great. I have a nice group and they seem to be excited. Today, a big part of the lesson was the story of my grandfather's service in WWI and how I found what I found and how I used historical background to fill in the story and make it come to life.
This evening, I had to do a presentation to the youth for a fireside. I find that anything with the youth is a challenge, because they are so easily bored - and even when they aren't bored, they often look like they are! I used Elder Anderson's talk to the youth from RootsTech and issued his challenge. We also talked a lot about the technology that is helping family history. Some of them actually got into it a little. They even laughed a couple of times. With youth, that means success!
Even with those "not so goods", it was a very good day. The talks in Sacrament Meeting were really good and a musical number was wonderful. The brother who sang in the duet was also the speaker and he always does an excellent job.
My Sunday School class was great. I have a nice group and they seem to be excited. Today, a big part of the lesson was the story of my grandfather's service in WWI and how I found what I found and how I used historical background to fill in the story and make it come to life.
This evening, I had to do a presentation to the youth for a fireside. I find that anything with the youth is a challenge, because they are so easily bored - and even when they aren't bored, they often look like they are! I used Elder Anderson's talk to the youth from RootsTech and issued his challenge. We also talked a lot about the technology that is helping family history. Some of them actually got into it a little. They even laughed a couple of times. With youth, that means success!
Sunday, March 16, 2014
March 15th - Women's Conference
We had the kids spending the night last night and had a lot of fun, but this morning I had to leave them to Grandpa while I headed off to the stake women's conference. I had just a little time with the kids before I left, since they were both up around 6:30.
The conference was nice. We were supposed to choose three of six classes offered, but I had no interest in any of them. I attended the first session on communication, just because I like the couple who presented. After that, I just helped get lunch set up. The sister in charge was from my ward and I had told her I would help, which at least got me out of the rest of the classes. There was not anything wrong with the classes, but there was nothing of substance that I would have liked to have taken. I know many of the younger sisters enjoyed some of them. Just not me! Don't you think there should be at least one class that is doctrine of some kind? I am not interested in homemade gifts, my personal style, photography, finances, etc. I still had fun, though. And I did listen to the closing speaker and enjoyed his talk a great deal. He was in our stake presidency until recently and I have always really liked him. He is from Jamaica and has an adorable young family and is a great speaker.
I finally got back home around 2:30 or so. I did a couple of things that needed doing and then I took a nice nap. I was exhausted!
I had won tickets to see "Shrek, the Musical" and had given them to Lisa and family. They went to see it this afternoon and had a great time. I enjoyed seeing her posts on FB. They rode MARTA down to the Arts Center to see the play. It is the national touring company, so was a quality show. I can't wait to hear all the rest of the details.
The conference was nice. We were supposed to choose three of six classes offered, but I had no interest in any of them. I attended the first session on communication, just because I like the couple who presented. After that, I just helped get lunch set up. The sister in charge was from my ward and I had told her I would help, which at least got me out of the rest of the classes. There was not anything wrong with the classes, but there was nothing of substance that I would have liked to have taken. I know many of the younger sisters enjoyed some of them. Just not me! Don't you think there should be at least one class that is doctrine of some kind? I am not interested in homemade gifts, my personal style, photography, finances, etc. I still had fun, though. And I did listen to the closing speaker and enjoyed his talk a great deal. He was in our stake presidency until recently and I have always really liked him. He is from Jamaica and has an adorable young family and is a great speaker.
I finally got back home around 2:30 or so. I did a couple of things that needed doing and then I took a nice nap. I was exhausted!
I had won tickets to see "Shrek, the Musical" and had given them to Lisa and family. They went to see it this afternoon and had a great time. I enjoyed seeing her posts on FB. They rode MARTA down to the Arts Center to see the play. It is the national touring company, so was a quality show. I can't wait to hear all the rest of the details.
Friday, March 14, 2014
May 13th - Some Visiting Teaching
My day started with doing some visiting teaching. My companion picked me up and we had a great visit with one of our sisters. Now, if I could only get our other two sisters to respond to messages, maybe we could visit them, too!
When I got back home, I got my list ready and then headed out to do some grocery shopping. I hate to shop, but it has to be done once in a while! I love having a three month supply of food - that way I don't shop often! Bill loves to shop, so he often does the quick runs to the store. But, on occasion, it becomes necessary for me to go. I got that done today, so I won't worry about it again for some time!
Back home again, I had some routine things that needed to be done. Nothing exciting. Even working at the desk was pretty much routine stuff. I see that I have again gotten the desk piled up, so I will probably need to do something about that - tomorrow!
I am still tired from the time change, but adjusting more each day. I did take a nap, but it wasn't that long. Progress, I guess.
This evening, I finished reading another book - Forget Me Not by Fern Michaels. I really liked it.
And thus - another day in the books!
When I got back home, I got my list ready and then headed out to do some grocery shopping. I hate to shop, but it has to be done once in a while! I love having a three month supply of food - that way I don't shop often! Bill loves to shop, so he often does the quick runs to the store. But, on occasion, it becomes necessary for me to go. I got that done today, so I won't worry about it again for some time!
Back home again, I had some routine things that needed to be done. Nothing exciting. Even working at the desk was pretty much routine stuff. I see that I have again gotten the desk piled up, so I will probably need to do something about that - tomorrow!
I am still tired from the time change, but adjusting more each day. I did take a nap, but it wasn't that long. Progress, I guess.
This evening, I finished reading another book - Forget Me Not by Fern Michaels. I really liked it.
And thus - another day in the books!
Thursday, March 13, 2014
May 12th - Wednesday - So Family History Day, Of Course
I worked at the family history center this morning, as usual for Wednesdays. My friend wasn't able to go with me today, but my co-worker was there. We were both just settling down to work on our own when a delightful woman arrived. She had come last week, too, and we had more fun helping her out. She is 80 years old and putting together a book for her granddaughter. She had come with a list of about three things she was looking for and ended up staying the whole time and finding a ton of other things. Lots of fun - for her and us.
When I got back home, I had some more of the usual routine to finish. Then I spent some time on my presentation for the fireside and on some other family history stuff. I couldn't get by without a nap again, but it wasn't so long. I keep thinking that I am going to get adjusted to the time change, but I am beginning to wonder how long it is going to take.
I was lazy with dinner tonight - just grilled cheese sandwiches and tomato soup - but fortunately I got it done before our power went out. We went through two ice storms and never had a flicker. Today we had rather substantial winds and a tree came down over some wires a couple of miles from us. It was out a couple of hours, too. In fact, it was starting to get rather dark and I had all the emergency candles lit when it finally came back on. I think the wind may have also finished off my table umbrella. It has been on its last leg for a while and the wind caught it and blew it across the yard. That probably means I will finally get a new one!
So much for the adventures of my day!
When I got back home, I had some more of the usual routine to finish. Then I spent some time on my presentation for the fireside and on some other family history stuff. I couldn't get by without a nap again, but it wasn't so long. I keep thinking that I am going to get adjusted to the time change, but I am beginning to wonder how long it is going to take.
I was lazy with dinner tonight - just grilled cheese sandwiches and tomato soup - but fortunately I got it done before our power went out. We went through two ice storms and never had a flicker. Today we had rather substantial winds and a tree came down over some wires a couple of miles from us. It was out a couple of hours, too. In fact, it was starting to get rather dark and I had all the emergency candles lit when it finally came back on. I think the wind may have also finished off my table umbrella. It has been on its last leg for a while and the wind caught it and blew it across the yard. That probably means I will finally get a new one!
So much for the adventures of my day!
Wednesday, March 12, 2014
May 11th - What a Beautiful Day!
Wow - I think we made it to 80 today, with lots of sun. It was a beautiful day. It is supposed to rain again tomorrow and get cooler, but I think spring might win the battle in the end!
Lisa had to renew her drivers license and with the new rules in Georgia, she expected it would take quite a while. To get a new license or to renew the first time since the law was passed, you have to show all sorts of ID's, including birth certificate or passport, social security, proof of residence like utility statements or bank statements, etc. There have been horror stories of how long it is taking to get a renewal done. I guess they are finally getting their act together, though, since this has been in effect since last year.
She dropped Brooks off on her way, so she wouldn't have to deal with him while she waited. He and I had a great morning. He had brought some play dough, so we played at the kitchen table with that for quite a while. Then, he was wanted to go outside and "paint" some more. We were in the backyard the rest of the time until Lisa got back around 11 or so. He had more fun playing with the water. Of course, I had him stripped, but he still managed to get his clothes a little bit wet. He had so much fun, though!
When she got back, he wanted lunch, so ate a small bowl of left over mac and cheese from yesterday and then they took off. I had plenty of things to finish up at home, so I didn't go. I had started laundry earlier and had that to finish, including the sheets so the bed had to be made, too. Plus, there was all the routine stuff. I spent some time at the computer, too, doing several things that had piled up on the desk.
By mid-afternoon, I was worn out. It will take me a couple of weeks to get adjusted to this time change. I ended up falling asleep and I must have slept for two hours! Not good - that makes it harder to get to sleep at bedtime. An hour would have been plenty. I may have to set my alarm! LOL!
The evening was quiet and relaxed. I did cook some dinner - surprise! I fixed a slice of ham, fried potatoes with onions and sweet peppers, and cabbage. We devoured everything! So, when I do cook, it is questionable about how healthy it is. Well, I did use olive oil for the cooking..........
I finished up another book tonight, too. I don't really like books with paranormal, ghosts, etc., but Odd Thomas had been recommended, so I gave it a try. It was a very well-written book. Koontz is certainly a story-teller. I found Odd to be an extremely likeable character and that did draw me in. I just don't like the ghost thing - not because it is frightening (which it wasn't), but I just can't accept it as reality and that diminishes my enjoyment.
But I thoroughly enjoyed my beautiful day!
Lisa had to renew her drivers license and with the new rules in Georgia, she expected it would take quite a while. To get a new license or to renew the first time since the law was passed, you have to show all sorts of ID's, including birth certificate or passport, social security, proof of residence like utility statements or bank statements, etc. There have been horror stories of how long it is taking to get a renewal done. I guess they are finally getting their act together, though, since this has been in effect since last year.
She dropped Brooks off on her way, so she wouldn't have to deal with him while she waited. He and I had a great morning. He had brought some play dough, so we played at the kitchen table with that for quite a while. Then, he was wanted to go outside and "paint" some more. We were in the backyard the rest of the time until Lisa got back around 11 or so. He had more fun playing with the water. Of course, I had him stripped, but he still managed to get his clothes a little bit wet. He had so much fun, though!
When she got back, he wanted lunch, so ate a small bowl of left over mac and cheese from yesterday and then they took off. I had plenty of things to finish up at home, so I didn't go. I had started laundry earlier and had that to finish, including the sheets so the bed had to be made, too. Plus, there was all the routine stuff. I spent some time at the computer, too, doing several things that had piled up on the desk.
By mid-afternoon, I was worn out. It will take me a couple of weeks to get adjusted to this time change. I ended up falling asleep and I must have slept for two hours! Not good - that makes it harder to get to sleep at bedtime. An hour would have been plenty. I may have to set my alarm! LOL!
The evening was quiet and relaxed. I did cook some dinner - surprise! I fixed a slice of ham, fried potatoes with onions and sweet peppers, and cabbage. We devoured everything! So, when I do cook, it is questionable about how healthy it is. Well, I did use olive oil for the cooking..........
I finished up another book tonight, too. I don't really like books with paranormal, ghosts, etc., but Odd Thomas had been recommended, so I gave it a try. It was a very well-written book. Koontz is certainly a story-teller. I found Odd to be an extremely likeable character and that did draw me in. I just don't like the ghost thing - not because it is frightening (which it wasn't), but I just can't accept it as reality and that diminishes my enjoyment.
But I thoroughly enjoyed my beautiful day!
Tuesday, March 11, 2014
May 10th - What a Fun Day!
The day started like every Monday - recovering from the weekend and doing the routine chores. It was the first day after the time change, so it was harder to get up than usual. I slept until 7:30! I have a real love/hate relationship with the spring time change. I love the fact that it is light through the evening, making it so much more fun to be out and about. I hate losing that hour of sleep, though. It seems to take me weeks to finally get readjusted!
I was busily working on things at the desk when Lisa called to ask me a couple of things and one thing led to another and she and the kids decided to come over for the afternoon. They were just picking Ashby up from school and it was such a beautiful day. The kids had so much fun playing outside yesterday that they really wanted to come again. Needless to say, I was more than happy to accommodate them.
We spent the rest of the afternoon outside. Lisa had stopped and bought some white paint to paint the trim on the playhouse. The kids wanted to paint, too, so I got them a bowl of water and they painted the sides of the playhouse with water. They had so much fun!
David called when they were getting close to going home to say that he was working late since the weather was so good (his job has been delayed repeatedly because of rain), so they ended up staying and having some mac&cheese and hot dogs at grandma's house. (For the record, they also had mangos and green peas, so it wasn't all bad!)
Bill even got home early, so he was able to play with them for quite a while. They just love it when Grandpa can play.
It was one of those priceless days - not planned and thoroughly enjoyable!
I was busily working on things at the desk when Lisa called to ask me a couple of things and one thing led to another and she and the kids decided to come over for the afternoon. They were just picking Ashby up from school and it was such a beautiful day. The kids had so much fun playing outside yesterday that they really wanted to come again. Needless to say, I was more than happy to accommodate them.
We spent the rest of the afternoon outside. Lisa had stopped and bought some white paint to paint the trim on the playhouse. The kids wanted to paint, too, so I got them a bowl of water and they painted the sides of the playhouse with water. They had so much fun!
David called when they were getting close to going home to say that he was working late since the weather was so good (his job has been delayed repeatedly because of rain), so they ended up staying and having some mac&cheese and hot dogs at grandma's house. (For the record, they also had mangos and green peas, so it wasn't all bad!)
Bill even got home early, so he was able to play with them for quite a while. They just love it when Grandpa can play.
It was one of those priceless days - not planned and thoroughly enjoyable!
Monday, March 10, 2014
March 9th - Special Sabbath Day
We had a special stake conference this morning. We had our regular conference in October, then the broadcast one in January. Needless to say, everyone was surprised when it was announced just a few weeks ago that we had another one today. It was one of those times when general authorities were in the area, I think to meet with the missions here, and they chose to do a conference with a stake. The Atlanta North mission home is in our stake, so I guess that is why we were chosen. Elder Cook was with the missionaries yesterday, but was not here today. One of the Presidents of the Seventy was supposed to be the one attending, but some family issue kept him away at the last minute and Elder Piper was sent in his place. And we enjoyed his talk very much.
It was a good meeting all the way around. Elder Piper called it a "stake conference light" since there were no Saturday meetings and the Sunday meeting was only an hour and a half long. The stake president spoke, as well as the mission president and his wife, then they called four youth out of the audience to bear their testimonies. After an intermediate hymn, they called three other people to speak. Two of those people were the Tuckers, good friends of ours. They were both born in Salt Lake City and baptized when they were 8, but they had become inactive by the time they were youth and have never been active. They are now in their 70's and a few years ago started coming back. They were sealed in the temple last year. The both did a great job. What an example they have become for the rest of our ward!
Elder Piper spoke last, of course, and we were very impressed with his talk and with his personality. Quite honestly, we could have listened to more of his stories! It was a very spiritual and uplifting meeting.
Back home, being so early, I got dinner ready to go and then we had plenty of time to take naps and relax before the kids came over. They got here around 5:30 and I finished getting dinner cooked. Well, David helped cook - he was responsible for the plank salmon. I just did the potatoes, brussels sprouts, fried apples, and crescent rolls. Boy, was it ever a good meal!
With the time change, it stayed light so much later and the weather was beautiful today, so the kids were outside every minute they weren't at the table eating. They had such a good time. I had a meeting, so had to leave about 6:30, so missed the rest of their time here. I could tell when I got home that they had fixed popcorn. It turns out Ashby had asked Ethan and Eric from next door to come play. Then, when she discovered popcorn, she invited them in to eat some. Cute.
My meeting was the Family History Consultants meeting. They have cut it to just every other month, and although I do not like leaving on Sunday evenings to attend a meeting, I did go. Only about 6 consultants came, though. It was a good meeting, especially since he tries to keep it short and to the point. I was back home by 8:45, so got to visit a few minutes with our home teachers who had come just as the kids were leaving.
What a busy day! As usual, though, Sundays really are the best day of the week - for so many reasons!
It was a good meeting all the way around. Elder Piper called it a "stake conference light" since there were no Saturday meetings and the Sunday meeting was only an hour and a half long. The stake president spoke, as well as the mission president and his wife, then they called four youth out of the audience to bear their testimonies. After an intermediate hymn, they called three other people to speak. Two of those people were the Tuckers, good friends of ours. They were both born in Salt Lake City and baptized when they were 8, but they had become inactive by the time they were youth and have never been active. They are now in their 70's and a few years ago started coming back. They were sealed in the temple last year. The both did a great job. What an example they have become for the rest of our ward!
Elder Piper spoke last, of course, and we were very impressed with his talk and with his personality. Quite honestly, we could have listened to more of his stories! It was a very spiritual and uplifting meeting.
Back home, being so early, I got dinner ready to go and then we had plenty of time to take naps and relax before the kids came over. They got here around 5:30 and I finished getting dinner cooked. Well, David helped cook - he was responsible for the plank salmon. I just did the potatoes, brussels sprouts, fried apples, and crescent rolls. Boy, was it ever a good meal!
With the time change, it stayed light so much later and the weather was beautiful today, so the kids were outside every minute they weren't at the table eating. They had such a good time. I had a meeting, so had to leave about 6:30, so missed the rest of their time here. I could tell when I got home that they had fixed popcorn. It turns out Ashby had asked Ethan and Eric from next door to come play. Then, when she discovered popcorn, she invited them in to eat some. Cute.
My meeting was the Family History Consultants meeting. They have cut it to just every other month, and although I do not like leaving on Sunday evenings to attend a meeting, I did go. Only about 6 consultants came, though. It was a good meeting, especially since he tries to keep it short and to the point. I was back home by 8:45, so got to visit a few minutes with our home teachers who had come just as the kids were leaving.
What a busy day! As usual, though, Sundays really are the best day of the week - for so many reasons!
Sunday, March 9, 2014
March 8th - Another Birthday Party!
This was pretty much a normal Saturday - cleaning, laundry, some family history, etc. Bill worked out in the yard getting the grass cut really short and some other things. It was a beautiful day - had to be 70.
This evening, we went out with some friends to celebrate a birthday. We were supposed to meet at Cheesecake Factory at 5:00, but that wasn't going to work, so we ended up at a nice Italian place called Dominick's. There were four couples and we had a good time. The food was good, too. Then we went over to the birthday boy's house for German chocolate cake and ice cream to top it all off. We ended up staying a while and had fun talking and laughing.
We rarely go out - we are both such homebodies - but we had a fun time.
This evening, we went out with some friends to celebrate a birthday. We were supposed to meet at Cheesecake Factory at 5:00, but that wasn't going to work, so we ended up at a nice Italian place called Dominick's. There were four couples and we had a good time. The food was good, too. Then we went over to the birthday boy's house for German chocolate cake and ice cream to top it all off. We ended up staying a while and had fun talking and laughing.
We rarely go out - we are both such homebodies - but we had a fun time.
Saturday, March 8, 2014
March 7th - A Day with the Kiddos!
I was just finishing with my shower and getting dressed when Lisa called. She and Brooks were planning to come over near my house to go to a consignment sale that we had talked about the day before. She wondered if I wanted to come along. I don't need to be asked twice!
When she finished with the voice lesson she had to give, they came over and we went to the sale. She found a few things for Brooks (he is the one who really needs some things) and a lot of stuff for Ashby. I bought Brooks a little bag with three vehicles - a snow plow, a fancy tractor, and a race car. He was so excited!
After the shopping, we went to Del Rio for some lunch, which was yummy. After lunch, we headed back to the house to drop me off, as it was time for them to pick up Ashby from school. Brooks really wanted to stay, so he ended up staying with me for the afternoon. He is so entertaining! He played with his new vehicles, then got the car box out. Let's see - he played doctor for a while with the items from Bill's pencil jar. I got my ears checked with the tire pressure gauge, etc. Eventually, he wanted the Lincoln logs, so we built some buildings and then the cars crashed into them to make them fall down. Let's see, he had the little flag, so played parade, going round and round the house. I was required to clap and cheer every time he came through the living room. Needless to say, he kept busy the whole afternoon and was a hoot!
Lisa has an early afternoon lesson on Fridays, so once that was finished, she and Ashby came over and were able to spend another hour or so until she had to leave again to finish her lessons for the day. Ashby brought her back pack from school and showed me all her papers. She also wanted to know if I had the book Horton Hears a Who. They had read it at school, starting on Monday, but she had missed on Tuesday when they finished the book and she wanted to read it. Of course, I have the book! I also got some really good cuddle time with her. She was not happy that they didn't get to stay longer, but at least they were all here for a little bit. It was a fun day.
Once everyone left, I did just a couple of things and then took a nap. I might have been asleep 10 minutes when Bill got home. Of course, just opening the front door wakes me up. I stayed in bed for a while longer and might have dozed another few minutes, before I finally gave up.
I then went to work on the family history stuff, still working on my grandfather's siblings. I am on his oldest sister right now and FamilySearch has all of her children listed twice, so I am trying to get them merged. It is not easy, though, when I don't know when or where they died. So, for each one, I am having to do some considerable research first and then doing the merges. Some parts of family history can be cumbersome. On the other hand, I am finding lots of information about them.
This evening was just a quiet one. I was back in bed reading rather early. I guess, as much as I love the grandkids being here, it tires me out!
When she finished with the voice lesson she had to give, they came over and we went to the sale. She found a few things for Brooks (he is the one who really needs some things) and a lot of stuff for Ashby. I bought Brooks a little bag with three vehicles - a snow plow, a fancy tractor, and a race car. He was so excited!
After the shopping, we went to Del Rio for some lunch, which was yummy. After lunch, we headed back to the house to drop me off, as it was time for them to pick up Ashby from school. Brooks really wanted to stay, so he ended up staying with me for the afternoon. He is so entertaining! He played with his new vehicles, then got the car box out. Let's see - he played doctor for a while with the items from Bill's pencil jar. I got my ears checked with the tire pressure gauge, etc. Eventually, he wanted the Lincoln logs, so we built some buildings and then the cars crashed into them to make them fall down. Let's see, he had the little flag, so played parade, going round and round the house. I was required to clap and cheer every time he came through the living room. Needless to say, he kept busy the whole afternoon and was a hoot!
Lisa has an early afternoon lesson on Fridays, so once that was finished, she and Ashby came over and were able to spend another hour or so until she had to leave again to finish her lessons for the day. Ashby brought her back pack from school and showed me all her papers. She also wanted to know if I had the book Horton Hears a Who. They had read it at school, starting on Monday, but she had missed on Tuesday when they finished the book and she wanted to read it. Of course, I have the book! I also got some really good cuddle time with her. She was not happy that they didn't get to stay longer, but at least they were all here for a little bit. It was a fun day.
Once everyone left, I did just a couple of things and then took a nap. I might have been asleep 10 minutes when Bill got home. Of course, just opening the front door wakes me up. I stayed in bed for a while longer and might have dozed another few minutes, before I finally gave up.
I then went to work on the family history stuff, still working on my grandfather's siblings. I am on his oldest sister right now and FamilySearch has all of her children listed twice, so I am trying to get them merged. It is not easy, though, when I don't know when or where they died. So, for each one, I am having to do some considerable research first and then doing the merges. Some parts of family history can be cumbersome. On the other hand, I am finding lots of information about them.
This evening was just a quiet one. I was back in bed reading rather early. I guess, as much as I love the grandkids being here, it tires me out!
Friday, March 7, 2014
March 6th - Visit from Brooks!
My day started as the normal routine - not really worth talking about! I was on my way to the library about 10:30 when I got a call from Lisa. She and Brooks were out running errands, so they wanted to come over for a short visit. Since I was almost at the library and had no other chores on my list, I was more than happy to have them come.
She had one more stop to make, so we had decided that they would eat lunch here. When Brooks eats at grandma's house, lunch is always mac and cheese, so I had started cooking the macaroni by the time they got here. He was so funny. I asked him what he wanted for lunch, he walked straight to the pantry and pulled out the mac! He is so predictable!!
We enjoyed our lunch and hilarious entertainment from Brooks. He is just funny - that's all I can say. Sometimes he reminds me so much of Jason with the charm and humor. He played with a stuffed bear for a bit. The bear went pee pee in the potty, so he got a sticker, and then they went to Target to buy a train, then back home to play. That all happened on the kitchen rug. Bet you can't guess what Brooks is working on right now! He also got out the mighty machines and the playmat and played with them for a while. It was a short visit, as they had to pick up Ashby at 1:00, but it sure was fun. My day was considerably brightened!
After they left, I worked on my Sunday lesson. Since this is the second time around on the class, I have the lessons basically prepared, but I still need to review them and tweak some things. That is all done now, so a quick review Sunday morning should finish that. I decided to let the fireside ideas sit another day, so I can mull it a little more.
Bill got home early and we both ended up taking short naps. The sister missionaries had called and asked if he would go with them to an appointment at 4:30, so he did that. It turned out to be a really good visit. The contact is one of those intellectuals who has done his research, so has a lot of questions. He will probably not go far with gaining a testimony, but Bill really enjoyed the discussion and came home interested in looking some things up and doing a little research in response. It is always good to be stimulated to think!
Meanwhile, I worked on my family history. I had done some things at the family history yesterday and last week that I still needed to complete, so I was working on that. I made some nice progress, too, but there is still a lot to do to get my grandfather's siblings all up to date.
This has been a productive day and I feel good about my day - fun with a grandson and family history progress, what more could I ask?
She had one more stop to make, so we had decided that they would eat lunch here. When Brooks eats at grandma's house, lunch is always mac and cheese, so I had started cooking the macaroni by the time they got here. He was so funny. I asked him what he wanted for lunch, he walked straight to the pantry and pulled out the mac! He is so predictable!!
We enjoyed our lunch and hilarious entertainment from Brooks. He is just funny - that's all I can say. Sometimes he reminds me so much of Jason with the charm and humor. He played with a stuffed bear for a bit. The bear went pee pee in the potty, so he got a sticker, and then they went to Target to buy a train, then back home to play. That all happened on the kitchen rug. Bet you can't guess what Brooks is working on right now! He also got out the mighty machines and the playmat and played with them for a while. It was a short visit, as they had to pick up Ashby at 1:00, but it sure was fun. My day was considerably brightened!
After they left, I worked on my Sunday lesson. Since this is the second time around on the class, I have the lessons basically prepared, but I still need to review them and tweak some things. That is all done now, so a quick review Sunday morning should finish that. I decided to let the fireside ideas sit another day, so I can mull it a little more.
Bill got home early and we both ended up taking short naps. The sister missionaries had called and asked if he would go with them to an appointment at 4:30, so he did that. It turned out to be a really good visit. The contact is one of those intellectuals who has done his research, so has a lot of questions. He will probably not go far with gaining a testimony, but Bill really enjoyed the discussion and came home interested in looking some things up and doing a little research in response. It is always good to be stimulated to think!
Meanwhile, I worked on my family history. I had done some things at the family history yesterday and last week that I still needed to complete, so I was working on that. I made some nice progress, too, but there is still a lot to do to get my grandfather's siblings all up to date.
This has been a productive day and I feel good about my day - fun with a grandson and family history progress, what more could I ask?
Thursday, March 6, 2014
March 5th - Sun Broke Through!
So glad we had some sun today. I actually wore my sunglasses while out. I guess we need to be grateful for what we get. I think it is supposed to rain again tomorrow and the day after.
I was out because it was my day at the family history center. I picked up my friend and we had a great morning doing family history. My co-worker made it in, too, and she took care of the one patron who came. What an adorable elderly woman she was, too. Jan and I were both working on what we had started last week. And we were both successful, I might add.
We stopped and got some lunch when we finished at the center and then it was back home. I had some routine things to do at home and then spent some time on my fireside presentation again. It is beginning to come together, so hopefully I will have it pretty much done in another day or two.
I decided that I wanted to take a nap, so I laid down and read a little. I never did go to sleep, though. My mind was just too busy! I enjoyed the rest anyway.
This evening was activity night, but I am not going over every Wednesday night now, unless someone sets an appointment. Instead, I fixed some popcorn, watched a bit of BYU-TV and then worked on a few computer things, before I headed back to bed to read.
I was out because it was my day at the family history center. I picked up my friend and we had a great morning doing family history. My co-worker made it in, too, and she took care of the one patron who came. What an adorable elderly woman she was, too. Jan and I were both working on what we had started last week. And we were both successful, I might add.
We stopped and got some lunch when we finished at the center and then it was back home. I had some routine things to do at home and then spent some time on my fireside presentation again. It is beginning to come together, so hopefully I will have it pretty much done in another day or two.
I decided that I wanted to take a nap, so I laid down and read a little. I never did go to sleep, though. My mind was just too busy! I enjoyed the rest anyway.
This evening was activity night, but I am not going over every Wednesday night now, unless someone sets an appointment. Instead, I fixed some popcorn, watched a bit of BYU-TV and then worked on a few computer things, before I headed back to bed to read.
Wednesday, March 5, 2014
March 4th - Dismal Tuesday
The forecast was for cloudy all week and today certainly followed suit. It was cold and dreary, although it didn't actually rain. Even so, I stayed in the house all day. Yes, that meant I didn't go to water aerobics. I just didn't feel like it - still have the headache and it was just too much effort. This is the last week anyway and I am not signing up for the next class since I would miss about half of it with upcoming trips.
My biggest slot of time was spent on trying to figure out the fireside I have to do for the youth in a couple of weeks. I think I am settling in on Elder Anderson's talk that he gave for the youth at RootsTech. I like the things he said and I can pick out one or two of those thoughts, plus we can talk about some of the techie things that are happening in family history. At least, it is a beginning. I am still working on getting it all pulled together.
I also took a nap this afternoon. Otherwise, it was pretty much a boring day. I finished the book I was reading and started on another one. As usual, I was busy all day, but most of it was just boring! Necessary, but boring.
My biggest slot of time was spent on trying to figure out the fireside I have to do for the youth in a couple of weeks. I think I am settling in on Elder Anderson's talk that he gave for the youth at RootsTech. I like the things he said and I can pick out one or two of those thoughts, plus we can talk about some of the techie things that are happening in family history. At least, it is a beginning. I am still working on getting it all pulled together.
I also took a nap this afternoon. Otherwise, it was pretty much a boring day. I finished the book I was reading and started on another one. As usual, I was busy all day, but most of it was just boring! Necessary, but boring.
Tuesday, March 4, 2014
March 3rd - Rainy Monday
We went from 70 and sunny yesterday to 40 and rainy today. This Georgia winter weather is so bi-polar and I think everyone is ready for some spring. The daffodils are up and the early blooming trees are pretty in purple, but it certainly doesn't feel like spring yet.
Bill's job had to cancel, so we were pretty much home all day. I had the usual Monday morning straightening, etc., but with no kids over yesterday, there wasn't much in the way of toys to get back in their right places. I did have some dishes that were used late and the dishwasher needed to be emptied. I spent most of the day at the computer working on family history.
I have to do a youth fireside on the 16th and I spent a lot of time trying to focus in on just what to do with them. I know it is supposed to be on family history, but I don't want it to be boring or a repeat of what they have already heard. So, I am trying to get creative. Hopefully, something will come into focus soon.
I also spent some time on the lesson I will teach on Sunday. I will be repeating all my stories from the last class, but I wanted to write up the first one to save to my family tree. In the process of rechecking details, I discovered some new information - not about my grandfather, but about the events that he was part of. It is a challenge to get the story just the way I want it, which includes being as totally accurate as possible. So, who knew that Camp Gordon in Georgia was not the same as Fort Gordon. After all, the history of Fort Gordon says it was originally called Camp Gordon. Long story, but basically it turns out that there was an earlier Camp Gordon during WWI that was used as a training base. It was built in 1917 and dismantled in 1921. The area is now called Peachtree Dekalb Airport!
With the rainy weather, the sinus headache started coming back more and more through the day. I ended up spending some "quality" time with the TV. I watched the last couple of episodes of Genealogy Roadshow. (I was disappointed when I remembered that Downton Abbey had finished last week.) Then again this evening, I watched some Law & Order with Bill.
As usual, I ended my day in bed with my reading. I only read one chapter in the Old Testament. It was too hard to concentrate. Then I read a couple hours in my other book.
We are supposed to have cloudy and/or rainy weather all week. I am not sure I will manage that. Then again, I really did find some good things today.
Bill's job had to cancel, so we were pretty much home all day. I had the usual Monday morning straightening, etc., but with no kids over yesterday, there wasn't much in the way of toys to get back in their right places. I did have some dishes that were used late and the dishwasher needed to be emptied. I spent most of the day at the computer working on family history.
I have to do a youth fireside on the 16th and I spent a lot of time trying to focus in on just what to do with them. I know it is supposed to be on family history, but I don't want it to be boring or a repeat of what they have already heard. So, I am trying to get creative. Hopefully, something will come into focus soon.
I also spent some time on the lesson I will teach on Sunday. I will be repeating all my stories from the last class, but I wanted to write up the first one to save to my family tree. In the process of rechecking details, I discovered some new information - not about my grandfather, but about the events that he was part of. It is a challenge to get the story just the way I want it, which includes being as totally accurate as possible. So, who knew that Camp Gordon in Georgia was not the same as Fort Gordon. After all, the history of Fort Gordon says it was originally called Camp Gordon. Long story, but basically it turns out that there was an earlier Camp Gordon during WWI that was used as a training base. It was built in 1917 and dismantled in 1921. The area is now called Peachtree Dekalb Airport!
With the rainy weather, the sinus headache started coming back more and more through the day. I ended up spending some "quality" time with the TV. I watched the last couple of episodes of Genealogy Roadshow. (I was disappointed when I remembered that Downton Abbey had finished last week.) Then again this evening, I watched some Law & Order with Bill.
As usual, I ended my day in bed with my reading. I only read one chapter in the Old Testament. It was too hard to concentrate. Then I read a couple hours in my other book.
We are supposed to have cloudy and/or rainy weather all week. I am not sure I will manage that. Then again, I really did find some good things today.
Monday, March 3, 2014
March 2nd - A Rather Quiet Sunday
The kids didn't come over today, so things seemed rather quiet this afternoon and evening. They had been out late on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday nights and a quiet day at home for them was needed. Even so, we missed them coming over. We did take advantage of the time, though, and did a good bit of relaxing ourselves!
Today was the first class in the new family history class. I had a good turnout - 13 people. About half of them are new, so it should be a good class. This first lesson is the lesson on the doctrine, but next week we will really start on the real family history stuff. I am excited about it.
The rest of the day was a usual Sunday. Testimony meeting was good, RS lesson was good. I had a crockpot dinner going, so dinner was easy. It was called salsa chicken and was chicken, black beans, corn, and salsa cooked on low all day, then the chicken was shredded and a block of cream cheese added. We used it as stuffing for flour tortillas - sort of like a giant burrito. It was really good!
Billy called in the evening and we had a nice chat. He was doing the last of his laundry and getting ready to head back to Des Moines in the morning. He had midterms on his classes this past week, so he didn't have any homework, making for a rather quiet week on that front. This afternoon, he went to visit with Grandpa for a while and said they had a good couple of hours.
So, even though we missed the kids coming over, it has been a good Sabbath day.
Today was the first class in the new family history class. I had a good turnout - 13 people. About half of them are new, so it should be a good class. This first lesson is the lesson on the doctrine, but next week we will really start on the real family history stuff. I am excited about it.
The rest of the day was a usual Sunday. Testimony meeting was good, RS lesson was good. I had a crockpot dinner going, so dinner was easy. It was called salsa chicken and was chicken, black beans, corn, and salsa cooked on low all day, then the chicken was shredded and a block of cream cheese added. We used it as stuffing for flour tortillas - sort of like a giant burrito. It was really good!
Billy called in the evening and we had a nice chat. He was doing the last of his laundry and getting ready to head back to Des Moines in the morning. He had midterms on his classes this past week, so he didn't have any homework, making for a rather quiet week on that front. This afternoon, he went to visit with Grandpa for a while and said they had a good couple of hours.
So, even though we missed the kids coming over, it has been a good Sabbath day.
Sunday, March 2, 2014
March 1st - Not Another Month Already!!!!
This year is whipping by so fast - another new month. I am hoping that spring will actually arrive and the winter stuff is gone for good!!!
Since this was Saturday, my day was very predictable - clean house, several loads of laundry, change sheets, plan dinner for Sunday. And then, of course, final check on Sunday lesson and work on family history.
I lay down for a little rest in the afternoon, but just read. In fact, I finished the book Never Let Me Go. It was rather strange, but I enjoyed it. It was kind of a twist on real life - what if after WWII, they started cloning people to provide replacement organ donations for those who need them. The clones would have to be taken care of until they were adult size, then they could begin giving their donations. But, this story is told from the point of view of the clones, who were raised in a private school. The public doesn't think they have souls, so what or who are they really. It was a strange book, but there are plenty of things to think about.
This afternoon, Bill and David took off to watch some of the high school basketball tournament games down at Georgia Tech. Lisa and I took the kids to a play at the local theater. We went out for dinner at the Chinese place first. The play was a melodrama/vaudeville type show and was quite funny. The kids seemed to enjoy it - booing and cheering. But, just at the end of the first act, they shot a cannon and Ashby really didn't like the boom. I think she was really tired by then anyway. Poor thing, at that point she just wanted to go home. Since we didn't want to force things too much, and we couldn't convince her otherwise, we headed on home. It was fun, though, and she did talk about some of the funny things on the way home. She doesn't like loud noises and bad people, so she was not really sure about the villain either. Sometimes he was funny, but not always. We still had a lot of fun.
I came on home then and started a new book!
Since this was Saturday, my day was very predictable - clean house, several loads of laundry, change sheets, plan dinner for Sunday. And then, of course, final check on Sunday lesson and work on family history.
I lay down for a little rest in the afternoon, but just read. In fact, I finished the book Never Let Me Go. It was rather strange, but I enjoyed it. It was kind of a twist on real life - what if after WWII, they started cloning people to provide replacement organ donations for those who need them. The clones would have to be taken care of until they were adult size, then they could begin giving their donations. But, this story is told from the point of view of the clones, who were raised in a private school. The public doesn't think they have souls, so what or who are they really. It was a strange book, but there are plenty of things to think about.
This afternoon, Bill and David took off to watch some of the high school basketball tournament games down at Georgia Tech. Lisa and I took the kids to a play at the local theater. We went out for dinner at the Chinese place first. The play was a melodrama/vaudeville type show and was quite funny. The kids seemed to enjoy it - booing and cheering. But, just at the end of the first act, they shot a cannon and Ashby really didn't like the boom. I think she was really tired by then anyway. Poor thing, at that point she just wanted to go home. Since we didn't want to force things too much, and we couldn't convince her otherwise, we headed on home. It was fun, though, and she did talk about some of the funny things on the way home. She doesn't like loud noises and bad people, so she was not really sure about the villain either. Sometimes he was funny, but not always. We still had a lot of fun.
I came on home then and started a new book!
Saturday, March 1, 2014
February 28th - Happy Birthday to the Best Daughter Ever!
I started my day by picking up a friend so we could make a trip to Costco. She needed bread flour and doesn't have a membership and I needed some things anyway. Perfect solution. We enjoyed our stroll around the store, got the things we needed, and headed back home.
At home, I did a few of the routine things that had not yet been done and then by early afternoon I was exhausted. I guess it was my busy day yesterday. Anyway, I took one of those long, intense naps. I must have slept for over an hour! I felt great when I got up, though.
I spent a little office time, then Bill got home. We went over to Lisa's for her birthday dinner, but David called and was running a little late. He had planned to bake a cake with Ashby, but that wasn't going to happen, so we stopped at Publix and picked up a fancy cake and some candles. This time the cake was a white cake with a strawberry and cream filling and giant strawberries on top. It was really good. (I actually like white cake better than chocolate, so I was happy.) We also bought some candles - the numerals were sparklers and then we got some of the magic candles to circle the top of the cake. It looked very festive when it was sparkling! And the kids love blowing out the candles and having them relight again and again.
Dinner was homemade tacos, which were very yummy. David had found a new taco maker. It fries 4 tortillas at once, instead of one at a time like ours. And, the kicker, it makes them "u" shaped, not "v." This is something we have all been wanting to find forever. Now our single taco maker will not be the one item they fight over as an inheritance!
We had a fun evening, with the kids providing an abundance of entertainment for us. Ashby has suddenly taken an interest in magic tricks and did a couple for us. She did a really good job, too. She was quite proud.
I think Lisa had a good birthday, what with dinner last night at The Melting Pot and family celebration with tacos tonight. I know we have had fun. So glad for such a wonderful daughter, who has made us proud many times over.
At home, I did a few of the routine things that had not yet been done and then by early afternoon I was exhausted. I guess it was my busy day yesterday. Anyway, I took one of those long, intense naps. I must have slept for over an hour! I felt great when I got up, though.
I spent a little office time, then Bill got home. We went over to Lisa's for her birthday dinner, but David called and was running a little late. He had planned to bake a cake with Ashby, but that wasn't going to happen, so we stopped at Publix and picked up a fancy cake and some candles. This time the cake was a white cake with a strawberry and cream filling and giant strawberries on top. It was really good. (I actually like white cake better than chocolate, so I was happy.) We also bought some candles - the numerals were sparklers and then we got some of the magic candles to circle the top of the cake. It looked very festive when it was sparkling! And the kids love blowing out the candles and having them relight again and again.
Dinner was homemade tacos, which were very yummy. David had found a new taco maker. It fries 4 tortillas at once, instead of one at a time like ours. And, the kicker, it makes them "u" shaped, not "v." This is something we have all been wanting to find forever. Now our single taco maker will not be the one item they fight over as an inheritance!
We had a fun evening, with the kids providing an abundance of entertainment for us. Ashby has suddenly taken an interest in magic tricks and did a couple for us. She did a really good job, too. She was quite proud.
I think Lisa had a good birthday, what with dinner last night at The Melting Pot and family celebration with tacos tonight. I know we have had fun. So glad for such a wonderful daughter, who has made us proud many times over.
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