Wednesday Hodgepodge

1. When you think of autumn what sounds come to mind? 

Leaves crunching under my feet, a crackling fireplace, and the sound at a football game--cheering, whistles blowing, and the band.

2.  Is a trip to the mountains something you enjoy? What's your favorite mountain? 

I enjoy a trip to the mountains.  I live in a beautiful area with many beautiful mountains close by:  Walker Mountain, Iron Mountain, White top Mountain, and Clinch Mountain.  White top Mountain is the second highest mountain in Virginia and is crossed by the Appalachian Trail.  I have been motorcycle riding on White top Mountain in the summer and it is so cool.  This is my favorite mountain I have visited.

3. What's something that once felt like a mountain, but is now just a molehill? 

Getting some paperwork completed!

4. Let's play this or that-fall foods edition. Yes you have to choose. 

• pumpkin spice latte or chai latte 
• apple cider or hot chocolate  
• stew or chili
• sweet potato casserole or green bean casserole 
• butternut squash soup or creamy mushroom soup 
• cranberry sauce or gravy 

 

Chai Latte, Apple Cider, Chili, Green bean casserole, butternut squash soup, and cranberry sauce

5. Sum up your September in a sentence or two. 

September has been a month of ballgames---footbal games and soccer games. It has been a month of preparing for the Apple Festival.  It has been a month of making precious memories.

6. Insert your own random thought here. 

This weekend was very busy.  September is a busy month preparing for the Apple Festival.  I enjoy this but man my body is feeling it this week.  AND so far this week I have been gone....Monday Bible Group and Tuesday traveling one hour away to watch grandson play football. SHEW!!!

Here is a few pics of just a handful of crafts I was able to snap pictures of  at the Craft Table:

Lego

This was made out of bottle caps!

Mermaid Quilt---it was absolutely gorgeous!!

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!!

Wednesday Hodgepdge

1. What's something on your August calendar you're looking forward to? Or dreading if that's easier to answer. 

My August calendar is filling up with sports!!  Oldest grandson starts his football season on Saturday.  I love watching him play, but I don't like watching him play (dreading it) because I am afraid of him getting hurt!  I will be doing a lot of traveling by myself which I dread going to these far away places. To me, football is a dangerous sport, but since grandson loves it, I will go watch and have a lot of anxiety.  The twins will still be playing flag football, which is my favorite kind of football.

Teachers began going back to school yesterday.  We have so many new changes, that it is kinda a dread feeling.

I am looking forward to a birthday party this weekend!

2. August 5th is National Oyster Day...do you partake? How do you feel about pearls? 

I will not partake oysters on Wednesday, August 5th even though I love oysters.  I have a couple strands of pearls from my daughters that was given me to wear on their wedding days. These pearls carry emotional meaning because of the important occasion. 

3. Tell us about a time when you felt like 'the world was your oyster'. 

In 2021, on was on a girls' trip in Tybee Island.  My hub had passed away in 2018 and my oldest daughter had passed away in 2020.  AND in 2020, was Covid so I was alone and this was difficult for me.  While in Tybee Isalnd, I received a call from a principal I had never worked for before.  She was calling to offer me a part-time job.  I would teach Monday-Wednesday, no bus duty, no ticket duty, but lesson plans were required.  I talked it over with my girls' trip gang; listing pros and cons  When I got home, I called the principal and accepted the job.  This was an opportunity for me that I never saw coming.  AND if I didn't want to continue teaching I could quit.  I am going on my 6th year and so thankful for this opportunity because I am definitely not a home body person.

4. Trip Advisor lists seven islands in the US that require no passport (for US citizens). If you're answering today from outside the US you'll still need to produce yours. An-y-way, have you been to any of the seven? Let's pretend you get an all expense paid trip to one this month...which one do you choose and why? 

Catalina Island California~Martha's Vineyard Massachusetts~Mackinac Island Michigan~Key West Florida~South Padre Island Texas~or Kauai Hawaii

I haven't been to any of these.  However, I would love to go to Martha's Vineyard in Massachusetts.  It is a combination of the beautiful coastal scenery and has a fascinating history of African American and Native American cultural history.  I can picture myself walking the streets, eating ice cream, and just watching the boats come and go.

5. Sylvia Plath is credited with the following- 

"August rain: the best of the summer gone, and the new fall not yet born. The odd uneven time."

Agree or disagree? In other words, how do you feel about this month? 

I agree.  August is an in between month.  It is still hot...but the nights are getting chilly.  It is still summer and fall hasn't happened yet, but you know fall is coming.  August is the odd uneven time."

6. Insert your own random thought here. 

Last night, I volunteered to help with Community Night Out.  Free school supplies were given out, free food, Canine demonstrations, and live music.  This was sponsored by the police and sheriff department, It  was a great turn out, but I came home really tired and wet!!!  The torrential downpour hit around 7pm.  

A back-to-school gift from one of my Bible Group ladies.  So sweet of her.

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

Wednesday Hodgepodge

1. Do your goals and dreams energize or exhaust you? Elaborate. 

Definitely energize me!!   Because it give me motivation and hope.  Dreams and goals give me hope for the future.  And being a teacher it give me motivation to keep going when I am exhausted...I see the end result goal!

2. July 23rd is national lemon day. Are you a fan of this flavor? What's a favorite dish or beverage you enjoy that calls for lemons? 

I am a fan of lemon and I love lemon water and lemon pie.

3. "When life gives you lemons, make lemonade"...is At this something you're pretty good at managing? Have you had to do this recently? If so tell us about it. 

 At the onset, I am not good at this.  After a few minutes, I am ready to make lemonade.  A plan fell through a few weeks ago, but I discovered a new trip...so this worked out.

Romans 8:28  "And we knows that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose."

4. Something you love that is lemon yellow in color? 

Sunflowers!! and corn on the cob!

5. How would you describe your attention to detail? 

I overlook details which causes me to not only have to go back and redo something or reread something, but I miss the the small detail which is important.   I would definitely benefit from being a more detail-oriented person!

6. Insert your own random thought here. 

A group of us went to Wintergreen for a few days.  It was still hot, but not as hot in the mountains.  We rented a cute little Airbnb. 

We visited 4 wineries...

One winery had horses to rent and you were able to ride to some of the different wineries.

I felt sorry for the poor horses in the heat.

It was a great few days just relaxing, enjoying the scenery, and 'catching up' with friends.

Have a great rest of the week and Enjoy Life!

Wednesday Hodgepodge

From this Side of the Pond

1. "Deep summer is when laziness finds respectability." Sam Keen

Do you feel less guilty relaxing in July than you do in January? Elaborate. 

July is summer!!  Summer means longer days and outdoor activities and  is a time for me to slow down. I do accomplish some deep house cleaning. January is a fresh start!! A time to start doing what I put off in July!!

2. What's a telltale sign you're upset? 

If hub was still alive, he would definitely tell you I become too quiet or only give a one word answer.  When someone gets me upset, I just walk away from that person. 

3. July 16th is National AI Day. What are your general thoughts and/or experiences with AI? Have you purposely used it? Does it excite you, scare you, or worry you? What do you see as a benefit? How about something relating to AI you see as a negative? 

I haven't had much experiences with AI nor have I used it.  AI scares me. AI is helping people with disabilities improving their accessibility and probably helping in the medical fields. 

What I see/fear as a negative is privacy-how much of my personal information is leaked. I think the system can be used for phishing emails and people will trust AI too much.

4. You're invited to a summer pot luck and are asked to bring an appetizer, salad/side, or dessert. Which category do you go for and what are you bringing? 

Definitely a store bought dessert!!!  Either cookies, brownies, or a pie from the Deli.

5. It wouldn't be summer without___________________. 

Humidity or a few thunderstorms.

6. Insert your own random thought here. 

Speaking of thunderstorms, Man!! I had one too many from last Wednesday till Sunday.  The thunder shook my windows and the rain was pelting down!  I didn't lose electricity (thank God), but I did lose internet service for a couple of days, which also meant no TV.  However, I am not too much of a TV person, but I have taken a liken to soccer so missed some of the games.  A few people were evacuated because of the flooding and the EMS really  came to their rescue.

Sun has been shining brightly since yesterday and the skies are blue.

Have a great rest of the week and Enjoy Life!

Wednesday Hodgepodge

1. What's something you enjoy now that your younger self would never have appreciated? 

Simple pleasures....a cup of coffee, a phone call/text from a friend, walking my dog,  establishing healthy boundaries, and spending alone time with God.

2. What was peaceful about today? 

I am writing this on a Tuesday evening.  I didn't do much today because yesterday (Monday) I had a lot of yard work to do and at my age this wore me out!  So today (Tuesday), I just had some R & R.  I went to the Farmer's Market for some fresh veggies, made chicken salad, and did some ironing (I am the only one who still irons?)

The grandsons are at the beach, and I am beginning a new book Frozen River.  I love sitting outside and I was able to do this.

 

3. It's National Blueberry Day (July 8). Will you celebrate?  You can have one of the following right now-a slice of blueberry pie, a warm blueberry muffin, or a stack of blueberry pancakes...which do you choose?

I keep blueberries in my refrigerator.  Usually, I put them in yogurt or sometimes just a grab a handful as I pass through the kitchen.

I would choose blueberry pie!

This or that-blueberries or raspberries? blueberries or strawberries? 

Blueberries over raspberries...strawberries over blueberries.  I haven't found many good, ripe strawberries lately.

4. Do you need a break? From what? 

Yes, from worrying about things that I can't control!!

ALSO, the HEAT!!! Which happened Monday.  Last week was HOT and I mean like 102 or higher degrees!!

5. What has surprised you most about getting older? 

Besides time going by too fast, I don't feel as old as I expected to feel.  Yes, there are things my mind says I can do (like walk for 40 minutes without stopping) but my body says 'take a rest' but I am still grateful what this 67 year old body can do!

6. Insert your own random thought here. 

I didn't realize how much I like soccer.  I have been watching the World Cup and man I didn't realize how physically and mentally demanding this sport is.  The players are constantly in motion and making split-second decisions. I hate the USA lost, though.

Have a great rest of the week and Enjoy Life!

Wednesday Hodgepodge

1. What do you love most about your country? 

I value different aspects of the" United States.  First, the freedoms protected  by the Constitution, the beautiful landscapes, and the volunteerism and community service.   The freedom of religion, freedom of speech (even if you disagree with the opinions of others, etc.  America has beautiful landscapes: Grand Canyon National Park, Great Smokey Mountains. Grayson Highlands State Park, etc.  When disasters strike a community, fire, flood, hurricane, people still volunteer and donate not only items, but their time to help clean up mess.

2. Your favorite patriotic song? 

"God Bless the USA" by Lee Greenwood.  This song brings a tear to my eye everytime.

3. Red, white, or blue? Stars or stripes? Something you own besides a US flag with some combination of those colors or decorations as part of its design? 

I own a shirt with red, white, and blue with stars and a sweater with red, white, blue that has stars and stripes.

The shirt is worn on Memorial Day and the sweater I usually wear on our Veteran's Day Assembly at school.

4. What's one thing you want more of this summer: fun, rest, adventure, connection, quiet, or confidence? Elaborate.

 I want to do something fun!!  I feel like summer is quickly passing me by and I haven't really done anything fun.  Sure, I have been to many baseball games watching my grandsons play and this was fun...but I want more.  Trouble is...I really don't have anyone to do something fun with.  Most of my friends either are having health problems or their spouse is...so.  This is the first summer in about ten years, I haven't taken a trip or plan on taking a trip and this is weighing heavily on my mind.  Maybe something will come up in the next 5 weeks, because then it will be time to return to the brick and mortar building.

5. What was your ultimate, go-to summer activity when you were a kid? Do you still do any version of that today? If you answered yes, does participating in this activity as an adult make you feel like a kid?  

Camping in a friend's backyard.  We would plan for weeks the night of our  camp out.  We bought all the snacks weeks ahead of time.  When the night came, we were so excited.  Our parents helped us put up the tent, and we had a little campfire.   Bellies full of hotdogs, chips, and S'mores, we would go inside the tent and get in our sleeping bags and began telling ghost stories. Of course, there was a group of neighborhood boys who knew were were camping out and always tried to scare us!!  This was the fun part cause we knew who they were and what they were up to!   Early the next morning, we would drag our bodies back home and get in our bed for a few more hours.

No version of this today!!

6. Insert your own random thought here. 

Monday, my Bible Study Women's Group finished the book,  Don't Give the Enemy a Seat at Your Table by Louie Giglio.  This book had me really thinking because I do let a lot of negative thoughts control my life.  I do have the power to control my mind, if I try.

The workbook was so good and made me really stop and ponder!!

A lady in our group made us the cutest July 4 little gifts with special treats.

We haven't thought about another book study, but if anyone has a good one, please share.

Have a great rest of the week, Safe Fourth of July, and Enjoy Life!!

Friday will be another trip around the sun for me!!

Wednesday Hodgepodge

1. Summer's here!  In the northern hemisphere anyway. If you're in the southern hemisphere substitute winter for the word summer. What do you love most about summer? What's your biggest summer pet peeve? 

What I love most about summer is having more daylight hours.  I love waking up to the sun shining through the windows; it just makes me happy.   I also enjoy sitting outside on my deck.  It is so peaceful except for the occasional hum of the heat pump. 

My biggest pet peeve would be when a beautiful day can become uncomfortable because of the high humidity.  Thankful, this hasn't happened yet!  Another pet peeve is seeing ticks!!

2. What song always reminds you of summer? 

"Kokomo" by the Beach Boys 

This got me thinking...Kokomo is an actual place in Indiana, but a fictional Caribbean place in the song lyrics, although the sound does mention Aruba, Jamaica, Bermuda, and the Bahamas.

3. What's something you remember about your childhood summers? Do you think kids today get to enjoy summer the way you did as a child? Elaborate. 

My childhood summers were great!!  My neighborhood was a tight knit place.  We all were like family.  We all would pitch in and help each other with chores so we could head outside.  We would play till dark...kick the can, catch fireflies in a jar, hide-n-seek, just fun times.  When I got older, I would go to Baltimore and spend the summer with my grandmother.  I loved going crabbing with my uncles!  I miss those Maryland Crabs!!

I don't think kids enjoy much of their summer.  My grandson, who I love dearly, played baseball until just a couple of weeks ago.  Now he is in basketball camp and football camp!!  Summer is supposed to be fun and I love sports, but too much of a good thing isn't fun anymore.  AND most kids would rather stay inside and watch TV or play video games.  I keep the grandkids on Tuesday, and I have taught them how to play volleyball without a net and badminton.  Do they grumble when I say time to go outside, YES, but once outside I hear those giggles while playing.

4. We celebrate Fathers Day on June 21st.

 Do you favor your dad in looks or temperament? Tell us something about your dad. Or your husband as a dad. Or a son/son-in-law as a dad. Or your grandpa. 

Many people say I favor in my dad in looks, I just can't see it.  This was on my wedding day, which if hub would have lived, we would have celebrated 45 years together on June 20th!

I do have my dad's temperament.  

My dad was a hard worker.  Family was very important to him.  He was kind, thought of others before himself, set clear boundaries, and was very supportive.  My dad passed away in 1984 at the age of 47.  I miss him dearly.

5. Let's wrap up with a summer this or that-

• flip flops or sandals
• beach or pool 
• watermelon or peaches
• shorts or sundress
• iced coffee or ice cold lemonade
• amusement park or water park

Flip flops, pool, watermelon, shorts (sundresses when school begins), cold lemonade, and amusement park

6. Insert your own random thought here. 

I just don't understand people.  Saturday evening, I was at a friend's house eating dinner.  My phone kept pinging and pinging.  When I looked at my phone, I was in complete shock.  My step-son had honored his dad (my late hub) by posting the most ugly post about him.  My hub has been dead for 8 years, so why post something like this now?  I was so mad and hurt.  The comments I were receiving were wondering the same thing.  

Anyway, I waited till Tuesday to reach out to the insurance agency my step-son works for which was previously owned by my husband. I sent a nice letter explaining how disappointing this was and how the people in the community was just as upset as I was.  The only response I heard from the owner, was not an apology but the situation has been addressed and the post deleted.  

Anyway...it is what it is.  People love drama and want to hurt other people.

Have a great rest of the week and Enjoy Life!