Wednesday Hodgepodge

1. Fall arrives this week in the northern hemisphere. Does it look/feel like fall where you live?What's something you love to do tLhis time of year that makes you feel its officially fall? 

*If you're answering today from the southern hemisphere feel free to sub spring for the word fall. 

Today, the temps are in the low 70s.  But for the past couple of weeks, the temps have been in the 90s.  I am looking forward to some cooler weather.  I told my colleagues I have decorated for fall with the AC blaring!!  Fall decor , football, and cooler weather makes me feel like it is officially fall

2. What's a small daily task or chore that always seems to fall through the cracks when your schedule gets busy?

Leaving dirty cups in the sink.  I would have NEVER went to bed with a dirty cup or glass in the sink, but here lately I do!  I am also having trouble keeping ahead of the laundry!

3. What's something you're falling for lately? 

Cooler weather!!  I love driving around and looking at the beauty of the changing of the leaves.

4.  Pumpkin is a popular flavor this time of year.  Are you a fan? What's your favorite pumpkin flavored food or beverage?  

I am not a fan of pumpkin.  I have tried the pumpkin flavored drinks and I do not care for them at all!!  The only food I like that is pumpkin, is pumpkin rolls!!!

5.What's something you wish would never change? Explain. 

Carefree summers!!!  I would go up playing outside games with make believe items!!  

This summer, I kept the grandsons a lot!  We played outside, swam, and took hikes.  Most of the games were sport games, but still playing.  One game we played a lot was soccer with a huge bouncy ball.  We also had picnic outside in their club house which wasn't a club house at all, but a playset with swings, slide, monkey bars, and a rope for climbing up the playhouse.  When it became dark, we hunted fireflies, and then would just sit outside on the porch.  Sometimes we would sing, or try and guess how many cars would drive by in 5 minutes.  Finally, we would head inside, take a shower, pop popcorn and watch a movie.   Personally, I see this slipping away.  I love sports, but there is a time when sports are too much!!  Parents rush kids to play a sport, then rush to play another sport on a travel team!!  The kids really have no summer!!

I also hope the love and the sacrifice  one has for our country will never change.

6. Insert your own random thought here. 

This weekend is the 72nd Annual Chilhowie Apple Festival.  The festival began with just a few men talking about the idea because Chilhowie was known for all the beautiful apple orchards, which have now disappeared, and subdivisions are in the orchards place.

But we still have the festival.  This year we have 82 vendors!!  I am so excited!!  The committee has decorated the town and last night I worked on the Parade Marshall's Float for a few hours.  The high school track team (4 in the relay) won state so these girls will be our Parade Marshall.  They will be riding on a float that was build in the 50s. AND from my daily weather check, the weather is to be PERFECT!!!  Temps in the 70s with very little chance of rain!!

Have a great rest of the week and Enjoy Life!

Wednesday Hodgepodge

1. How do you define beauty? 

Beauty is kindness, compassionate, and the way someone makes me feel.  Beauty is also a sunrise, sunset, and laughter.  

Many people associate the word 'beauty' with appearance, but appearance can change, but a person's character rarely changes. 

2. Have you ever taken a trip by train? If so where did you go and what did you think of the experience? If not do you have any desire to do so? Where would you like to go? (You might find inspiration here-The Best Train Trips in The World)

 I have never taken a trip by train.  But, I would love to.  I would love to travel from the east to the west coast.  I think traveling by train would be a way to really see the scenery. This has always been on my bucket list. 

3. Shell shocked, bombshell, bandshell, shellacking, in a nutshell, walking on eggshells...choose one and tell us why you chose it, or how it relates to your life in some way currently.

Definitely eggshells!!!  We have had a lot of changes this year in my school district and my school.  I was really close to a teacher, but the changes have really upset her.  I have tried helping by showing another easy way, but she refuses.  Every-time I try to help, the same reaction.  I have had to walk on eggshells around her by not offering any advice.

4. Tacos, pistachios, oysters, clams, eggs...your favorite food on the list that comes in/with a shell? 

OYSTERS!!!!!  I love oysters, but dang they are too expensive in the market.

5. Are birthdays a big deal in your house? Is your own birthday a big deal in some way? Elaborate. 

Birthdays just to be a big deal when the girls were younger, but not now.  Daughter tries to have some type of surprise for the grandsons...not necessarily a party, but a small trip planned.  Last year, she took them to Charlotte to see Cooper Flagg play

My birthday is no longer a big deal.  I am just thankful for another trip around the sun.

6. Insert your own random thought here.

Have a great week and Enjoy Life!

Wednesday Hodgepodge

1. ARE YOU READY FOR SOME FOOTBALL?  On a scale of 1-10 how much of a fan are you? (10 is never miss a game and 1 is I'm just here for the snacks). Who's your team? If you're playing along today, but live outside the US feel free to sub your feelings about futbol for the more American sport of football. 

10 all the way!!!!  Go Vols!  I am in a football pool and usually pick by the colors of the team.  Out of 20 teams I went 17-3 last week; this week 15-5!!  

I need to learn the game of futbol--twins first match is this Saturday and I know nothing about this sport. 

2. What's something you currently have a game plan for managing? 

I plan the week ahead on a Sunday evening.  All clothes are laid out for the work week.  I take a look at my calendars (one hand written and one on my phone) and decide what absolutely needs my attention.  I know schedules will change, especially grandsons games, but it is okay.  I have some quiet time for just me in the mornings before leaving for school. 

My word for 2026 was 'boundaries'.   My game plan isn't just saying "no"  It's about deciding what I will carry and what I won't.  It is about protecting my peace, and letting my faith guide those decisions.

3. Do you like chicken wings? Hot, mild, or some other flavor? What's a must have food for you on a tailgate menu? I know tailgating isn't as big of a thing outside the US of A as it is inside the US of A, but you can also answer the question this way-what's a must have food for you at a sporting event viewing party? 

I like semi-hot wings.  Tailgate party needs to include wings, loaded nachos, chips and salsa, football shape cookies and beverages!!!

4. Teams typically have strict playbooks they follow. What is one unwritten rule or piece of advice in your 'life playbook' you think everyone should know?

Be kind, honest, and do your part.  Then let go of what isn't mine to carry.  I can love people without taking responsibility for their choices.

5. This is the week we remember and mourn all that was lost and changed on September 11, 2001. I always include a spot for bloggers to share anything they'd like to share about 9/11. Share as much or as little as you like. 

I was teaching school and getting ready to leave for a conference in Roanoke.  When my principal heard about this, he had all TVs in the school turned off.  Teachers were trying to find out what was going on.  I still had to leave for my conference.  When my colleagues and I arrived at our hotel, the lobby was packed and I mean packed. Due to air space being cancelled so many people were left with no where to go.  All restaurants were closed in the area, and the quietness of the night was eerie.

September 11, 2001, is important to remember, but I remember the humanity that emerged in the middle of this tragedy. So many lives were changed that day.  But the courage, compassion, and willingness to help each other became just as much a part of the story as the devastation.  Even in the darkest moments; kindness and unity matter.  

6.Insert your own random thought here. 

I put out some fall decorations in this 90 degree heat!!  The AC was running, but I was burning a fall candle!!!!

Have a great rest of the week and Enjoy Life!!!

Wednesday Hodgepodge

1. What's something you wanted to do this summer that you never got around to doing? 

I really wanted to give my house a good ole fashion deep cleaning!!  It is difficulty when you are in charge of outside sprucing up, also.

I looked back on my calendar to see what was the reason I never got around to the deep cleaning.  Well, I was at a ballpark watching grandson play till Father's Day, next in charge of the snacks and decorations for Friends of the Library meeting,  helped with a Foam Party, had an Apple Festival meeting,  had a couple of Bible Group meetings,  helped with the Petting Zoo, got in some Professional Development, met with Supervisor because a parent has filed a complaint to the Department of Education (met last week on this and no real conclusion), kept grandsons, met friends for dinner, and went on a short trip.  Also got in my dentist, dermatologist, and doctor appointments.  I really didn't have much time to deep clean my house considering school ended June 2nd and started back August August 3rd.

2. Were you the student who sat in the front row or hid in the back of the class? If you could go back and take one high school class again just for fun, which would it be? 

I sat in the middle.  Kids in front were called on to answer and kids in back seemed to get in trouble; being in the middle was kinda looked over!  

If I could take on class just for fun it would be English because I didn't really appreciate English class while I was in high school.

BUT I would love to take Home Economics (Now called FACS--Family and Consumer Science)  maybe then I could learn not to get so nervous when trying to bake/cook something.

3. What characteristics do you think are essential in a good teacher (this can be applied to anyone who teaches, not just classroom teachers)? 

First, PATIENCE is a MUST!!!  There are days I want to pull my hair out!  Teachers need to be approachable and encouraging so students feel comfortable asking questions or expressing their ideas..and boy have I heard some interesting ideas!  To me the biggest challenge is differentiating.  Students are on so many different levels and teachers are expected to teach at all levels with classroom full of 25 to 30 students.  Other characteristics I would include would be: good listener, dependable, a good role model, loving and compassionate.

4.  September 2nd is National Grits Day. Have you ever eaten grits? Are you a fan? If so how do you like yours? Would people describe you as 'having grit'? 

Late Hub absolutely loved grits.  He always ordered them if offered at a restaurant and smoother them with butter and salt; me not a fan at all. 

I think people would describe me as 'having grit'.  To me, grit' is more like preserving when things get difficult, getting back up on your feet after something has knocked you down, and I stick with what matters to me.  This year, BOUNDARIES was my word for the year and having grit' I was able to say this is what I need and I am going to honor it and keep moving forward.

5. What's something you're never too old or too young to enjoy? 

Dancing.  I love listening to music and find myself dancing by myself.  Also, I think, you are never too old or too young to enjoy a trip with your friends...just enjoy the laughter and the memories.

6. Insert your own random thought here. 

We entered the 'ber' months yesterday.  SHEW!!!  It is still scorching hot. I am ready for a little cooler weather maybe around 75 to 80 would feel great!!

Have a great rest of the week and Enjoy Life!

Wednesday Hodgepodge

1. How do you feel about the transition from lazy summer days to a busier fall routine? 

I am okay with it.  I kinda enjoy the beautiful scenery when the leaves are changing (even though I hate getting up leaves from my big ole tree) and the cooler weather.  Fall means football, and I enjoy watching and going to games.  My word for 2026 was 'boundaries' and fall is a good time for me to decide what deserves my time and what doesn't.  I don't have to say 'yes' to everything. 

2. Your favorite cookie? 

Peanut Butter Blossoms.  Funny how I only eat these at Christmas time.

3. What's something you've learned from a culture different than your own? 

I have a friend, Simone,  in my Bible Group who is from England.  She has lived in America for 5 years.   At first Simone was very reserved or at least that is the way I perceived her. But once she and I got more acquainted, she was very warm. So, her friendliness at first was quieter which is something that I didn't realize.  I show friendliness by smiling and hugging, where she showed friendliness by being reserved.  Of course, she did get me hooked on hot tea!!  I ask a lot of questions, but Simone didn't but she did remember something I had told her earlier.

I learn dry humor is okay and it is okay to laugh at yourself.  Having a cup of of tea is appreciating the ordinary moments.

4. Food critic, film critic, book critic, art critic...which hat would you most like to wear? Tell us why. 

Book critic.  My colleagues and I discuss many books and share our thoughts on each book we read.   I like to give my opinion about a book and support my opinion with examples from the book.  I also like to discuss the author's writing style.  

There is no way I could be a food critic when I rarely cook and I don't know that much about being a film critic.  I love looking at art and visiting museums but really don't understand enough to be an art critic.

5. What's a small, random thing from your childhood that you still remember clearly? 

Sunday dinners after church and going for Sunday afternoon rides.   I love going to my grandmother's after church for Sunday dinner.  Don't ask me how but my grandmother always had a huge spread prepared after church and she attended church. No one took their plate in front of the television and extra table was set out.  We all ate and actually talked and laughed. 

After dinner and all the dishes washed (no dishwasher) and put away we would go for a ride.  Somehow we all piled into the same station wagon and rode for miles and miles with no particular destination in sight. 

6. Insert your own random thought here.   

My Bible Study Group celebrated my birthday (which was in July) and another person's birthday Monday evening.  It was difficult finding a time we could all be together in the summer.

Anyway, we went to Blackbird Bakery and was showered with many gifts.

This is a picture of my grandsons saying their prayers at bedtime with their dog.

A journal I will begin in a few days.

Then we went to play Escape Game.  This is a game where you are put in a room and you try to escape by trying to figure out clues.  You are given hints.  The goal is to escape within an hour.  Did we escape?  NO, but it was so fun!

Have a great rest of the week and Enjoy Life!

Wednesday Hodgepodge

1. August 19th is National Aviation Day...do you like to fly? Last time you were on an airplane? The date is chosen in honor of the history and development of aviation, and celebrated on the birthday of Orville Wright. Have you ever been to the Kitty Hawk area of North Carolina? The city of Dayton in Ohio (their birthplace)

I like to fly!  The last time I was on an airplane was April 2026; the grand kids and I flew to Florida.  I will mention, I don't like flying at night because most passengers sleep and the plane is too quiet for me.

It has been at least 23+ years since I have been to Kitty Hawk.  I was a chaperone for a school trip.  I do remember hiking up a sand dune and people could look through one of those pay meters and watch people climb.  I just remember it being hard climbing.  

2. In what area of your life do you tend to 'wing it'? Is this an area you should be winging? 

I can't think of an area of my life when I tend to  'wing it'.  I usually have some plan and think of all the ways to be prepared if my plan falls short.  I am definitely a planner! but can adapt if needed to.

3. A favorite book, song, or movie that relates to flight in some way?  

"Learning to Fly" by Tom Petty and The Heartbreakers and the famous movie, Top Gun.

4. Soft serve, gelato, sherbet, frozen yogurt, or good old fashioned ice cream...what's your pleasure? Your favorite flavor? How often do you indulge? 

I would like mint-chocolate chip ice cream in a waffle cone please!  I very seldom indulge.

5. I never get tired of______________________. 

Having grand kids spend the night.  There is just special putting them to bed and kissing them good night, and in the morning when waking up hearing, "Good morning, Mamaw."

6. Insert your own random thought here. 

Shew!!!  These storms haven't let up!!  It has rained a lot and I mean a lot!!  So ready for the sunshine!!

Have a great rest of the week and Enjoy Life!!

Wednesday Hodgepodge

1. I saw a meme on Instagram that went like this-'The movie Dirty Dancing came out in 1987 and was set in 1963, so if remade in 2026 it would be set in 2002. Now I need a little lie down in a dark room for a while." 

Time is crazy isn't it? So...what were you up to in the year 2002? 

In 2022, I was teaching at the high school level.  My oldest daughter was beginning her high school years as a freshmen and my youngest daughter was in the seventh grade.  I was going to games watching oldest daughter cheer and this is when youngest daughter started her interest in playing volleyball and basketball at the middle school level. 

I think 9-11 was still having an impact on me.  I still had a house phone!! and didn't leave the house with a cell phone.

2. "Me? I'm scared of everything..." What's something that scares you that you'd like to try anyway? 

Canoeing   I am not a fan of water, at all!!!  I had an experience when I was in the fifth grade and have never gotten over my fear of water..  Yes, I love to go on boat rides, sit by the pool, go to the ocean, etc. but I don't really swim. Canoeing being an outdoor activity will give my mind a break plus some exercise.  BUT my mind would probably be racing the entire time...wonder if there is such a thing as a two person canoe?

3. Watermelon-yay or nay? Which melon is your favorite-watermelon, cantaloupe, honeydew. Of the watermelon food/beverages listed which would you say yes to...

watermelon salsa~watermelon feta salad~watermelon sorbet~

a watermelon Jolly Rancher~a watermelon margarita 

I love watermelon!!!!  I could eat it everyday.  How about a Watermelon margarita!

4. August 12th is National Middle Child Day. Are you a middle child? If not, where do you fall in the birth order in your family of origin? Do you think this has influenced your personality? Elaborate. 

I am the oldest.  It was just my brother and I and my brother is two years younger than me.  I think being the oldest does influence your personality.  I was often expected to be dependable and set an example for my brother.  Being  the oldest, put a lot of pressure on me because I wanted to do things the right way.

5. Would you rather talk to everyone at a crowded party for a short time, or have a significant conversation  with two people? Explain. 

I would rather talk to everyone at a crowded party.  I would want all to be included and that would make me want to say 'hi' to all.  Also, I am a curious person, so I would want to have a little conversation with someone that I might not be close to.  And if I only have a significant conversation with two people, I would feel like I was missing out on something.

6. Insert your own random thought here. 

Our first day of school was Tuesday.  I don't know how it is going to go because I have to rush home, feed my little dog, and head out to watch grandson play football.  I know I will be dead tired when I get home around 8:30pm.

I did go Saturday to watch grandson play his first jamboree game.  I traveled two hours to watch an hour long game, but grandson is worth it.  I just pray for safety for all the football players.  I am a huge fan of football, but I don't really enjoy watching grandson play.  Football is nerve wrecking when I have to watch him play.

Have a great rest of the week and Enjoy Life!

I have to tell ya'll this!!!  The first day of school went smoothly till around 2:30.  Storms were predicted around this time.  The weather was awful!!  Tornado warnings started coming in.  Two schools about 10 miles from my school were shelter in place.  Because buses from the other two schools were late, this made the buses late coming to our school.  When the busses arrived, the students were dismissed ONLY to be called back to 4th block...WHY?  A skunk was on our front porch!!  Now, you can't make this up!!