Blessed and Grateful: Retirement Reflection

              I had no concept of retirement except what I watched in the lives of others. I knew that it was time to embrace something different. My heart was pulling me further away from work routines. Routines comfort the psyche, but sameness that dulls must be dealt with.  A jolt of different usually works.
                For six weeks after Retirement Day, I slept.  It seems that when I sat down, I’d take a nap: hour-long sleeps, or more. I could not get rested.  And then, I was rested, revived.  Walks, fresh air, sunshine and peace can do a body more good than milk.
                 No one seemed concerned about me in retirement, but they thought Marvin would go nuts. Neither of us is any nuttier than we were previous to vacating the workplace.  Marvin and I have found that we stay occupied, and act more by what seems right to do than what we “ought” or “should” do. His projects are enormous, in my estimation.  The house is a man-sized adventure – inside and out, so his “self” stays stoked. His energy also channels into city enterprises, community outreach endeavors, and total immersion, as this is his Hometown.  Our families need our expertise from time to time, and we love having the ability to step in when we can do the most good. We have taken some cool trips and have more in mind.  Watch for us if you live “out West.”
                 My involvement reflects my interests, energy, and abilities:  Clay County Arts Council, Rector Community Center, Hemingway-Pfeiffer Writer’s Retreat, Writers Ink, some of Marvin’s endeavors (I’m secretary and side-kick) plus the church choir.  My calendar is as full as I want it, plus I read the paper and sip my coffee, starting my day in leisure. I’ve found several shopping Meccas and totally love my Amazon Prime experiences. Using my laptop for social interaction, shopping, writing, and exploring beats PowerSchool black and blue! 
                I am not “driven.”  I have nothing to prove and am not charged with righting wrongs or saving the world.  I can’t do that anyway, but always felt that I should try.  What an enormous responsibility lifted.

While there are friendly acquaintances here in Retirement Rector and surrounding area, friends of the caliber and strength I have in Memphis will not ever be matched.  We’ve lived our life with friends from “the past” and have roots deeper than time. These friends stick. Friendly folks here are enjoyable, but there is not time on earth or depth of experiences required for growing true friendships.  It’s fun to be sociable, but I am not looking to build abiding friendships such as those I have with cherished life-long friends.

Retirement:  It’s a next step.  It is a different avenue, a new path, and I thrive on a “little bit new and different.”  I am blessed that I have health, life, and ability to enjoy this new adventure.  I am grateful to God that my life has meandered down a winding path to this point. Twists and turns, segues and sojourns led me, and it is marvelous, beyond what I ever imagined. God has done this same thing with me forever.  He gave me my children, He gave me my health and life, He grew in me a gentler heart, and opened my understanding of the world to embrace what He gives, not what I plan.

The Occupying Army Has Moved Out and I Miss Them

      For a wonderful Christmas week, we have had the pleasure of being occupied by our family.  They visited with robust joy; they ate with celebratory vigor; they gifted with generous spirit, and were recipients with grace, charm, and grateful hearts. 

        What an absolute pleasure to watch 18 mo. Aubrey explore the hallway to her bedroom with toddler speed. Soon we’d recognize that where there was quiet, immediate investigation was required! She was more into ripping paper, pulling colored tissue from gift bags, and trying to grab her mama’s cell phone!  Zach was a very polite teenage guest, laughing along with everyone when we gave him a coupon for $10 off a Barbie Doll as a “gotcha gift!” Renee’ and Cheryl’s families’ conversations are lively and I’m glad they are “on my side.” I would not want these two plotting against me!
             When Marvin’s family drove away to their homes, we filled up the gas tank the next morning and drove over to Hwy 22 off I-40 at Lexington, TN, meeting Maureen and Richard to bring him in for Christmas.  At the same time, David and Colby were headed to us from Memphis. By 6PM, we were all gathered for Christmas Eve supper and a rousing game of Mexican Dominoes!  Marvin always wins, regardless of what position at the table he occupies.  He also keeps score.  Hmmmmm.
            Christmas Day was a delight! We did not awake at dawn-thirty but we were glad we had lots of batteries!  David acted as Santa for the Day.  Wow!  What a celebration of Joyful Giving. The gifts I was expecting to arrive had been delivered USPS at the n-th hour on Christmas Eve, so I was relieved. Everybody was so excited about their Christmas gifts.  It was quite simply:  Awesome! Christmas Night we watched the approaching snow storm as we began work on a 1000 piece jigsaw puzzle, set out on the dining room table.

Richard got the DriveOut Tag for his truck and motored on to Memphis by 2PM with the highways being deemed “in good shape” after our 10” Blizzard in Clay County.  Memphis only had a dusting – 1” so his drive there to spend time with David and meet up again with Maureen was just fine.
         
We missed Maureen being with us, since she was with her family in Nashville.  Marvin’s son and family have a moved to Houston, TX, in a new job with a wonderful opportunity. 
                          Other than that, this Christmas ranks toward the TOP for being occupied by family, an experience I will always treasure.

 

ROCK This House

               Crank it up, Ladies!  Turn the volume on “In The Next County!”- as in, “Turn that record player down! They can hear it over in the Next County!”  Ok, Daddy.
               Blast your speakers out with David Foster and Mannheim Steamroller, Morman Tabernacle and Josh Groban.  Throw in Alvin and the Chipmunks, Theme from Home Alone! Don’t forget “I Want A Hippopotamus for Christmas!” When the UPS and FedEx guys arrive, invite them in, if they can hear your invitation over “Grandma Got Run Over By a Reindeer.”  They will refuse, because you have flour all through your hair and splotching your face, plus, you have on a Santa Apron!
              My great-grandmother Gordon and the other Grand Matrons of Camden, Arkansas, developed a recipe for Christmas Cookies that are colloquially known as “ROCKS.”  At least 10 healthy pecan trees were laden with fruit, right there in the side and back yards of the Big House, so we always had pecans for recipes, and all the ladies shelled and picked out pecans. At least 1 cup chopped pecans should be loaded into the Rocks.  Also, cut-up pieces of candied fruit and about ¼ cup of “whiskey.”   Alas, I do not add the whiskey, though it was a standard in many Gordon recipes. I add some Mexican Vanilla, and it gives the cookies a punch.  Well, I rocked out this afternoon to the strands of “Tender Tennessee Christmas,” plus I made a batch of “icebox cookie dough” to top off the afternoon.  That dough is divided into 4-8 portions, wrapped in wax paper, and placed in the “icebox” to set up, prior to baking the next day. These mainstays of Christmas plus a batch of Peanut Butter Fudge will finish up my baking tomorrow.
              I saw on Pintrest a super-cute way to gift baked goods to neighbors, so I’m planning on that Saturday.  And sometime I have to wrap those packages the UPS and FedEx guys have so graciously brought to my door step.
              Now, I am going to ROCK myself to sleep in my comfortable chair, like Richard did one afternoon after pre-school.  He climbed into Poppy’s chair, and started rocking in wild fun, and the next thing we knew, he was asleep! I feel a nap coming on just thinking about it.
             Rock On, Ladies!  ROCK ON! Turn on the Christmas music, turn it up LOUD. Dance, Cook, and Enjoy the season.  It’s a sure way to jump start the Christmas Spirit, even if you’re having some Charlie Brown difficulties!

December: Join in the Celebration!

Christmas Festivities –The 12 days of Christmas in Rector, AR- 2012!
     On the FIRST DAY, someone will OD during the NIGHT OF CHOCOLATE, a salute to the excessive indulgence in chocolate.  Night of Chocolate is a celebratory dinner theatre event with a plethora of chocolate desserts, inspiration of the Clay County Arts Council. Even if an excessive amount of chocolate consumption and a chocolate fountain suggest otherwise, please, no partridges! 

      On the next DAYS of CHRISTMAS, I’ll avoid Doves and Hens, Geese and Swans. But, it’s GOOD LUCK to have a BIRD and a NEST in your Tree. The wreath for the front door is a creation of ribbon, netting and ornaments, featuring browns, golds, pine cones, a couple of flashy, whispy-tailed gold accent birdies, plus a splash of turquoise. About 50 lights give the design a golden glow, spectacular with the brick colors of the house.
     Soon, Ladies and Lords will dance and leap during the Rector Christmas Parade and Festival of Lights Extravaganza. Floats, bands, and beauty queens will promenade brightly down Main Street. The festive event concludes at the Community Center with a party featuring desserts, entertainment, and an opportunity to sit on Santa’s lap!

     On the Golden Days of Christmas, I’ll salute WHITE GOLD!  The formal tree occupies a corner at the den entrance.  It will feature natural fiber cotton bolls (White Gold), along with 2 Christmas Cotton decorative stems I bought at Charlene’s. I do love that tree, decorated in cream, brown, green, white, and of course, a turquoise touch.  The Traditional Family Christmas tree reminds me of stockings and mice napping, and lovely days of cookies and milk for Santa. That tree will be in the downstairs den by the fireplace where my sons would expect it.
     Pipers and Drummers will declare Deck Wars (version 2.0).  Let the fun continue. My offering was a weak second compared to my neighbor’s gargantuan red lighted bow that can be seen “for miles.” I’ll have to try harder this year.
     Finally, the Maid(s) will be cleaning!  Alas, the only Maid in my house is ME.

The theme for Christmas Weekend and Christmas Eve is “A Charlie Brown Christmas” (1965). Linus speaks to Charlie Brown who is “depressed,” lamenting the commercialism of Christmas.  Linus reads from Luke (KJV): “I bring you good tidings of great joy! For unto us is born this day….a Savior who is Christ the Lord.”  That’s what Christmas is all about, Charlie Brown!  Marvin’s children and grandchildren will celebrate with us on Christmas Weekend and my children will be arriving Christmas Eve! Let Us Never Forget: Christ is the Reason we Celebrate.

Peace, Love, and Hostess Cupcakes

     Twinkies, I learned when teaching 8^th graders, have a shelf-life of 10 years or more.  Preservatives, sugar, sponge cake, cream filling, more sugar, and more preservatives fuel ADHD kids to delirium.  At the conclusion of one notable parent-teacher conference, the mom confessed, “I knew I should not have let him eat all those Twinkees.”
     Hostess cupcakes (orange=my favorite), Ding-Dongs/King Dongs, Twinkees, fried pies, and other delights that sugared our childhoods may forever fall from the grocery shelves and along with them, colorful balloon packaged Wonder Bread. With so much name recognition and brand surety, another buyer must rescue the company.  Childhood and second childhoods would not be the same without Hostess.
     Nothing stays the same, though, including holidays.  Some states, Colorado being primary, will be experiencing euphoria at the thought of relatives visiting. Imagine this conversation: “So, your mother is coming to spend Thanksgiving and stay through the New Year?  Hey.... that’s totally cool.  She can have our room. Cool! Love it.” My sister-in-law might invite me and all my family to spend the holidays with her and my brother. She’ll cook enough food for an army and after we’ve eaten the first morsels, we’ll all form a Love Commune and live together in peace and harmony forever more.
      It must be a Christmas Miracle!  Yep, it is.  Colorado legalized not only medicinal but recreational use of marijuana.  Blend it, pour it, shake and bake it, add it with granola to your cereal, include it as a spice in all your recipes.  “Let Peace Begin With Me” – the new State Motto of Colorado!   

The State of Gratitude

       Our land is arrayed in orange, red, brown, and yellow hues prompting jaw-dropping amazement as we gaze upon leafy decorations splashed against crisp, Fall blue skies.  Autumn colors have reached their peak here, just in time for Thanksgiving.  Too bad it seems that so few will acknowledge the call to thankfulness.
       Maybe it’s because holiday decorations include a Turkey, the fowl that lost the National Bird election to the regal Bald Eagle.  Perhaps some wish to skip Thanksgiving because their favorite football games and the coma-inducing plethora of pigskins have dulled their conscience.  I have been guilty, myself, of referring to the holiday as Turkey Day, a salute to my week in the kitchen and the recipes that focus on turkey, dressing and pumpkin pies.
       Recently, however, my senses were accosted as I shopped.  Television commercials have informed that the colors of the current season are Green and Black – Green for cash and Black for the bottom line that is not red, thus the decision to move Black Friday to Black Thursday or Black Thanksgiving, or Black November.
        Can we not take even a single moment to express our thanks not only for the food on our table daily, but for our families, our health, our very breath and say it directly to the author of all bounty, each goodness, God Almighty? 
        Commercialism is rampant.  We all understand why merchants wish to entice us to launch our Christmas preparations early.
We understand the state of the economy. 
We need to examine our state of gratitude.

"What's This Cute Little Room, Dear?"

       Statistics show that the Kitchen is the most deadly room in the house.  Not just for the turkey, but for humans who are either clumsy or prone to run-ins with butcher knives.  “Chicago” (Cellblock Musical) lyrics for “He Had It Coming” intone that “he ran into my knife--- 10 times!”
       Pesky utensils such as potato peelers, kitchen scissors, paring knives, or Pampered Chef Choppers should carry Warning Labels declaring the implement to be one of “mega-mass destruction” or certainly a boast a warning similar to that of the Surgeon General regarding hazards to the health.  Scalding water and flaming skillets…..the Smoke Alarm should not signal that dinner is ready!
       Another potential hazard I recently discovered: what about Aluminum Foil?  Aluminum Foil can deliver a wound that necessitates cleaning with water, cloth, perhaps a kiss, and definitely a Band-aid.  Blood appeared, Neosporin+PainRelief was applied, and the tender area was covered to speed healing. No sling was necessary, however. When using the premium quality Aluminum Foil, exercise caution around unmarked, sharp edges.  Not only is there no warning label forbidding Microwave use, but there are no arrows, no “do not touch” notations, nothing to clarify for the consumer: Beware of Aluminum Foil edges. They can cut, possibly disfigure or maim. Amateurs should avoid not only the foil itself, but the boxed razor-toothed edge, also.
        Cooking, in and of itself, brings opportunity for creativity, but does not come without hazard, without risk.  Does your family recognize the risk you take daily when you enter the kitchen to prepare a meal?  Hazard Pay should be negotiated!  Or, as those Germantown Housewives are prone to do – just “make reservations!”

Politics and Philanthropy

               Rare is the moment when politics and philanthropy combine.  One has little to do with the other nowadays, except in this tribute.

Tuesday, November 6, 2012,  I was able to step into a voting booth in Rector, AR, and cast my ballot.  On that ballot in Clay County, AR, was Marvin Gatewood for Alderman, Position 2, West Ward.  He lost to the incumbent.  But, he got my vote and several hundred others.  I remain proud to have cast my vote for him and proud, knowing that regardless of the outcome, he will continue to work for his hometown of Rector.  He will share his business experience and his backbone and work ethic for the betterment of this tiny town.

Friday, November 9, 2012, Richard McAlister will be among several others out of Charleston, SC and the Bartlett Tree Experts (Scientific Tree Research, Residential, and Commercial International Company) to deploy to the Jersey Shore to assist in their recovery. He will be in the midst of Chris Christie’s New Jersey efforts to rebound from Superstorm Sandy and the most recent nor’easter.  I hope you will cheer for him and pray God to keep his hedge of protection around my dear, darling son. He will be in New Jersey for 10 days.

         My heart expands with pride (not the bad kind, I hope) in recognition of the hard work of these two men who happen to be cornerstones of my world.

Cotton Tycoon, Timber Magnate, Oil Baronnes

     Today, I toured the Graves’ Cotton Corporation Gin at Hargrave’s Corner in Rector. The facility turns out a huge bale of cotton every 2 minutes and 32 seconds.  Over the course of 7 years, I have learned about cotton fields, planting, irrigation, module trucks and we have stopped in Monette to examine a monster cotton picking machine. My formal Christmas tree uses ribbon and cotton bolls as accents. But, today, I witnessed a module expelled from the truck onto rolling pins and gazed as it moved along the conveyer to the place where the process of pulling the trash, hulls, and stray stems begins.  Loud is an understatement inside the gin. The sharp teeth of one of the initial processors separate the fiber from the seed.  And it all goes from there into a strapped bale, it’s inserted into a sleeve marked with the familiar 100% Cotton logo, and loaded onto a palate for market.  It’s a fascinating journey.

      As a young girl, I was afforded the pew-y opportunity to tour the International Paper’s mill in Camden. From pine timber billets to brown paper bags, I witnessed the process of turning pulp into paper. We had timberland in south Ouachita County and northern Union County, on “Auntie’s Place” so our family was interested in timber and Daddy aspired to be a mogul.  No matter how loudly the merchants in Camden proclaimed smoke-stacks which billowed clouds of stink to belch the smell of money, my little girlfriend circle practiced holding our breaths from Fairview to Duck Inn as we drove into Camden from the south.

     While Auntie’s Place had timber, there was also oil nearby. Never have I witnessed a gusher. Rarely do I cash a BIG royalty check, since our family’s portions have been divided now by multiple shares.  Oil companies are reopening wells in South Arkansas, and while I am not anticipating a gusher, it would be OH, So Nice!

     Set in East Texas, the novel Roses spans generations resulting in a fabulous saga involving a cotton tycoon (female) and a timber magnate (male). Their love story, decisions, heartaches, and tragedies complicate multiple lives, not unlike GWTW.  I’d highly recommend Leila Meacham’s novel. She is a former teacher and she lives in Texas.  Find it reviewed in the column to the right.

Pineapples, Rhett, and Rich

Short version: Rhett was not sighted in Charleston, SC.
Long version:  It takes 12 1/2 hours to drive from Rector, AR to Charleston, SC. Bathroom breaks are allowed.
Dog version:  Hershey travels well, and there are hotels that are "pet friendly." go to BringFido.com
Rich's version:  He really loves what he's doing and is planning to progress with that Tree company.  He may be called to help in the clean-up aroung NJ and NY from Superstorm Sandy. He says he and Maureen are very happy.

Charleston, SC old downtown is pretty, but it still carries scars from Hurricane Hugo.

Residential areas for the super-wealthy:  The Battery with preserved, updated, and historical landmark townhouses. Other areas are for young couples, rich folks, regular people, etc.  James Island, Daniel Island, West Ashley.  Sullivan's Island is the beach community and boasts an Edgar Allen Poe tavern because he served at Fort Maultier on that island. Folly Beach is for the surfers.
Rich and Maureen really like it there, but it has been a huge culture adjustment and financial struggle moving to new town and a totally new environment.

I am trying very hard to remember myself at 23 and how I wanted so very much to have NO advice from my parents. Golly Gee, that is hard.

Ecclesiastes Had No Clue about California

               “I’m so happy to have moved back here, because, you know, in California, they have no seasons,” said my new friend. She stated the fact as if “no seasons” were a dreadful disease for which there is no cure.
                Really!  I had not thought too much about California…ever.

                Those loose and nutty people have to contend with weirdo politics and earthquakes plus “no seasons.” Their climate changes result from “fire, mudslide, and Al Gore.”  What can I say?

                 Some might argue that continuously moderate temperatures and sunny skies would be preferable to life in Tornado Alley, Sinus Central, or the Pine Pollen Bowl.

                 I’d like to see California before it falls into the Pacific Ocean, and would schedule a motor trip on Route 66 to culminate in San Francisco.  Driving Hwy 1 in a Mustang Convertible – yep, I’d go for that. Tourist attractions throughout California I’d enjoy seeing: Rodeo Drive, The Golden Gate Bridge, and Hollywood, of course.
               Mother asked her daddy if the family could “drop by Hollywood” while they put-put-putted from Camden, AR, to visit relatives in Enid, Oklahoma. “Sure, Honey,” was all he said, with his smile.

 Life here remains my preference where my senses pray with awe to the colors of Autumn Days.

Letter to Mother....an exerpt

           "I recall the pastel hem stitch and crochet patterned trimmings on the small flannelette blankets you gifted babies.  The search for just the right softness and weight of the fabric will begin again, for I need 3 pieces of flannelette to continue this family tradition.  I have begun to finish the pink rosebud blanket that you began and then left in a wad of dismay. I note the stitches in disarray, as you tried to make your hands do what your mind suggested. I see the times you simply forgot what to do next. I treasure the mess, which is why I did not pull it all out. Now, I am trying to mimic the stitches you were using to create the designs I remember.  I have begun several experiments in stitchery with that blanket and another grand scheme with a “granny square.” Both trials are ragged, but I am learning, as always, from you."
                            
                        ...An exerpt from a piece I am submitting to The Foundation of Arts, Jonesboro, AR. The call for writers is focused as "Letter to Mother/Mom." 
                             You can read the entire submission in the side Pages section of this BLOG, called Journeys.

A Long Way From Our 1st Bottle

             Of Oil of Olay, that is.....The time has come. No longer can I ignore the fine lines that have arrived uninvited to the under eye area. That hint of darkness has not a thing to do with a long night of partying. Not Estee’ Lauder Sunlight product nor bronzer can restore the youthful glow and lightness to my complexion. Even my conscious attention to attaining more Vitamin D without Rx cannot add that sun-kissed healthy glow to a suddenly “dull” complexion. If I could stand the pain, I'd use a bag-clip on that extra skin around my smile and get rid of that sad-sack look. I must take more desperate measures. Time to take to another bottle…of moisture, the tube of cleanser, the buffer, a clay mask, and the twice daily intense clarifying lotion. Debby Boone is into Lifestyle Lift and it's "More Affordable than I might think." I'm skeptical.
          Gone are the simple days of Pure soap and water, Nutragena Complexion Bar only.  My Bunco group test-marketed a complexion under-makeup and night cream that I really liked, but the FDA has yet to approve it, I guess. The magic in a jar would probably cost a fortune and be distributed only at a Med-Spa or through a dermatologist. I’ve been very lucky to have inherited my Daddy’s coloring and skin type, so I did not suffer acne and have had very few flare-ups, even as an adolescent. So, what are these tiny under-the-skin bumps on my forehead?

          I refuse to take a “before”picture –there are enough of those circulating now. I have employed 2 beauty coaches: my dear friend Tricia who looks younger each time I see her, the one who is my age and who reminded me to return to my roots: Clinique.  The other consultant is my step-daughter, Renee’, who is all about the newest, latest, greatest products for skin and hair and has her own account at ULTA and several spa connections. She has offered product advice for those of us who are “aging.”
         Whoever brought up “roots”- yep, I have that “new growth” to rectify.  Today, Shelia would cringe.

             So, when I start to see a marked improvement in the radiance of my skin, I will share the product names, but until then, perhaps you, my young friends, will share your magic potions for looking so beautiful: you know who you are!!
               I should have started "yesterday."

Witch Hat Cookies - perfect culinary delight!

As seen on Pintrest!
So festive and so very easy.  This one is for you, Jana, Pam, and Tricia since I know you don't cook!  SMILE!  Brenda, I am taking a dozen of these delights to David and Colby tomorrow.  They will be in an air-tight container with a FABRIC BOW, of course.  I saved out 2 for Marvin and me, as we are watching sweets and cholesterol.  I toyed with dark chocolate cookies since the Elves make the striped cookies in full dark chocolate.  Add Hershey kisses with almonds, and I think they'd be good for you!   I can picture these cute cookies  on the lunch table at BHS.  Just pop the entire thing into your mouth and enjoy!  Don't even think of cutting the cookie in half to share.  Imagine.

Brenda, Beth, Linda James, and my niece Dawn  would probably make these from scratch, but I just buy the Keebler cookies and the Hershey's kisses, the orange icing, and think I'm Martha Stewart!  Kathy, I think Isabella could add these cookies to her recipe book!

Great Pumpkin Arrival

             For several days I entertained the notion of offering ACT Prep classes in November-December and again in March-April for the students at Rector HS.  Then, I decided I’d be the Rector Jane Ross!  I got excited about the preparation and such, considered getting an updated Baron’s and going online at ACT.org and getting together some lessons for the Reading, Science, and English.  Then, I’d hire a Math person.  Get back, evil thoughts!  Get down from that ledge!  Don’t even think about it!  OK, I came to my senses. I began to think about when I would study and when I would offer the classes and how quickly I’d have to get it together and publicize for the December test.  All of a sudden, I had a flash:  I don’t have to do this! Good Grief, Charlie Brown!  So, I won’t.  Take that!  And that!  I probably will sometime….but, I just don’t quite have the time right now.

            Tonight are the Auditions for Suspect Hollywood, our Dinner Theatre short drama to accompany Night of Chocolate.  I don’t plan to audition, but will attend because the Arts Council is the sponsor of the event.  Today was a Great Pumpkin October 1 since I got to get the wreath made for the front door (see photo) and put out my Fall garden flags.  We are closing the pool this week.  Isn’t everyone ready for Fall? 
           Another project:  I am teaching myself to crochet!  There are these absolutely cutest navy and white baby boy “sneakers” booties that I plan to make for Gina (shhh!) for Mitch’s baby.  She cross-stitched for me and mine, so I’m going to try to return the gift, somewhat.  I do hope it turns out.  Perhaps I should start today. Even if she reads this, it’ll still be a surprise if they turn out gift-worthy!  I did knit a pair of slipper sox for Aubrey and a set of booties for Renee’s friend Hillary who is having a girl in January.  (see photos)
         Has anyone read any really good books, lately?  I have downloaded a few onto my KindleFire from the Library, but returned them within about 2 chapters.  Dull, dull, dull.  Maybe I am ruined after Gone Girl and “the Trilogy.” Grisham is supposed to have a new one coming out, and I am thinking of reading Light Between Oceans…has anyone tried that?  How about Beautiful Disaster?
         
For those who have been to Rector and have seen the Corner Bookstore and have found it Closed,  well, Mrs. Timerean has opened it again.  I went in today and it is an overwhelming collection of used paperback books.  BookStop Plus and several other “SWAP” book stores remind me of this store. I remember one summer when I read every romance novel I could and swapped in a bookstore on Mendenhall.  She has hardback collections and paperbacks – just about everything written by Nora Roberts, Mary Higgins Clark, Danielle Steele, Lee Child….etc…etc.  She’s such a sweet lady, but she needs HELP in getting her collections weeded – if this were a garden, it would be overtaken with random wildflowers.  Pretty, but so much, it’s difficult to decide what to do next, which way to turn.  Very interesting place!

Life with Gracie!

                    We are welcoming “Gracie” to our family this week.  Gracie is quite young, really pretty, and she’s “loaded.”  Breaking the tradition from a Chevrolet or a Ford, Gracie slipped upon us in the form of a Toyota Highlander.  Renee’ had done the research on safety and accessories, options and price, and they traded her car for a Highlander about a month ago.  After Marvin drove it and discovered the head room, leg room, shoulder room in the driver’s seat, he was “smitten.”  We looked all around this area, but traded my Taurus and bought it Saturday in Memphis.  She has lots of bells and whistles, but so far, luckily, I have yet to find a vehicle that can make a killer banana pudding!  Her color name is Seafoam blue, and that’s rather a steel blue, or blue gray.  Really pretty!  She’s going on several road trips this week, only one which requires Navigation, though.

                    Speaking of road trips, the one Friday is to Charlene’s outside Halls, TN.  Their Open House is this week and I invited several ladies to go with me.  I’m checking it out for our Fall Break Outing, if anyone is still interested.  Meet at Charlene’s and then have a bunking party here.  We’ll have to coordinate our dates, money, and baby sitting, but that is a standing invitation to anyone who feels game. You’ll have to let me know the exact dates and who’s really interested.  Check out Charlene’s web site.  You’ll just be overwhelmed.  Save up!

                    Other interesting tidbits around here:  The Clay County Arts Council is meeting regularly now and we have a Dinner and Holiday Fashion Show with various businesses decorating tables and holding pre-sales and a Silent Auction.  That event is coming up November 1 at 6:30 PM.  It’s at Sugar Creek Country Club (at Piggott) and should be really great.  That’s a Thursday night.  December 1 (Saturday night) is the Night of Chocolate, but this year a dinner theatre event will be included.  It’s entitled “Suspect Hollywood” and promises celebrity visits.  Wonder if Robert Redford will show up?

                    I got into the pool for what may be the last time today.  The water was so very brisk that it almost “burned.”  I think another afternoon this week is supposed to be warmer.  It’s just hard to let go of that pretty sight!  So, we’ll be closing it down next week and I’ll start decorating for Fall.  How fast the days go by.

                   Next week, also, I do plan to go to Memphis and have breakfast with David and then go shopping with Renee and Aubrey.  Rich called from SC last week and talked for almost an hour.  For those of you who know Rich, you know that was a major event, because he never calls, and seldom talks any more than just to conduct business. It was a great conversation.  It is lonesome there, but they (he and Maureen and the dog Lincoln) are beginning to make some friends.

                Happy Birthday, Tricia!  Remember, we will never be older than Cher!!!

Your Honor, May I Approach the Bench?

"How do you plead?" asked the judge, who was not the same as the cop who gave me the ticket.
"Very unintentionally guilty, Sir," I replied.
"It's always that way," he remarked.
"I'd like to request that the ticket not go on my record."
"Already done, Ma'm"
"And might I have the amount reduced?..."since I'm on a fixed income...retired," I wondered.
"No.  I don't do it for anyone. And you don't look like you are doing too badly, retired on that fixed income."
Best to leave well enough alone.
"Thank you, Sir."
"Pay when they call your name.  Until then, have a seat."
And such was my adventure at the Lepanto City Hall, along with 50 other culprits whose crimes ranged from disobeying the burn ban, driving without brake lights, speeding, and disorderly conduct, 2nd degree battery, shoplifting.  A whole group of locals were admonished not to be within 100 feet of the other.  Trial set for October 30.  Tell your story to the Judge then, not today.
I did not realize how relieved I'd be to have that ticket out of the way...even at the tune of a gazillion bucks. 
"Christmas won't be Christmas without presents," mumbled Jane as she counted out her cash to the clerk in Lepanto, AR.

BTW, I am taking Romeo (my moisture stricken laptop computer) to the Funeral Home in Piggott.  Not for a casket, I hope, but there is a guy who comes highly recommended by my friend Lucy at the Rector Post Office.  She says he can fix my computer.  I called him and he said he'd take a look at Romeo and order the keyboard and fix him right up.  I got so tickled telling Pam that I was taking my computer to a repairman who works out of the Piggott Funeral Home.  How small town is that?

The "Eeency-Weency Spider"

      A little dab will do ya!  Just a spoonful of sugar helps the medicine go down! A pinch of salt, a tad of this and a bit of that, just a hint of color, or a touch….not much, just a “smidgen.”   I don't care what size the spider is....neither does a computer care how much Diet Coke is suspended in mid-air around its keyboard.
     That’s all that’s required…a dot, a dab, a "smidgen".. of Diet Coke to get the keyboard of my laptop shorted out and the whole thing off to the HP Hospital in God Knows Where to the tune of about a zillion dollars, probably half of what the laptop cost in the first place.  I’ve called around.  I’ve checked.  Not good.
    
     Take the “moisture insurance”- no matter the cost.  I could have spilled the entire contents of the tiny plastic bottle which rested precariously upon the mouse pad from NASA (I Need My Space!).  There was but a teensy swallow left when I put the bottle down, and “ooopsy-daisy!” (Sh..#!#)  I grabbed it (the bottle and the computer), wiped the keyboard free of the, what, maybe 5 sprinkles of the vile substance.  No good did that do.  Whatever “moisture” seeped into the keyboard did the damage, even with my response time being that of a NASA engineer.

      So, tomorrow, upon my return from COURT in Lepanto, AR (another story), I will “swing by Jonesboro” and get the GEEK Squad to send “Romeo” to the HP hospital.  I call him “Romeo” because I spend so much quality time with him in the evenings.  He is usually sitting on my lap or right beside my chair, waiting for me.  I feel very much alone without him.  Bad, huh?

     So, as a dedicated scribe, I will continue to share my stories with you faithful readers, from the downstairs office area and the desktop computer.  No Diet Coke or Diet Green Tea is in sight. I should have at least bought the silicone keyboard protector, even if the plastic cover did not fit.  I have the screen protector….where was my brain???????

     And to think that Pam went swimming for 45 minutes with her cell phone in her swim outfit and that phone is still ticking today - it did not die.  I sprinkle dear “Romeo” with but a few drops of Diet Coke, and life as he and I knew it is over!  John Cameron Swayze (Patrick's Father????), where is the much needed Timex version of a laptop computer?  "It takes a licking and keeps on ticking!"

                          At least Romeo has a brother.

      I’ll share my Lepanto Court adventure with you in my next blog.  I can only hope it will not be told as I scribble upon prison-provided letter paper, as Emerson and plenty of other scholars have similarly penned their philosophies, “Stone walls do not a prison make, nor iron bars a cage.” 

I've Got the Music in Me

            Nancy Chaney lived across the hall from me one summer at Henderson State in the wild and wonderful 1966-1970 era. Nancy is the friend who had the portable TV powered by an extension cord from her room. We pointed the rabbit ears toward New York City or Little Rock for better reception!  Our end of the hall would be packed with girls as we gathered to watch Tom Jones rotate his hips in tight pants and sing “My, my, my Delilah!” 
          Nancy grew up in the vicinity of Delight, AR. She said her family knew Glen Campbell. Nancy also told us that Glen Campbell did not win the County Fair or High School Talent Show when he was a young teen. Glen did not finish high school, dropping out in 10^th grade, since there were no courses in writing, singing, or playing music.  He could bear down on a mean guitar and his mellow voice could croon the tunes, though.
         Tonight, we are going to the Glen Campbell Farewell Tour at the ASU Convocation Center in Jonesboro.  I went to the Cher Farewell Tour in Memphis at the Pyramid and many patrons were costumed in her honor, but as I have never owned any cowgirl (or boy) boots, I’ll have to pass for tonight’s show.  Rhinestone earrings would be about as far as I could go.  I’d love to wear a flimsy short dress with leggings, and cowboy boots with a long strand of rhinestones around my neck but I’m too old by 30 years. (Hmmm, we could take a vote on that!)
         Glen, you know, has Alzheimer’s.  His children are accompanying him on this tour, playing banjo, guitar, and drums and say that they’ll keep going as long as their dad gets pleasure from the experience.  Sometimes he forgets what song has been played, but his daughter gently leads him onto the next.  I think it’s that love as much as anything that I wish to honor by attending the concert.  He’s from Arkansas and his talent is superior with the guitar.  His studio time is well documented with plenty of famous singers, including an on-stage stint with The Beach Boys. His songs such as Gentle on My Mind, Wichita Lineman, Rhinestone Cowboy, etc. crossed the line from country to pop. We’ve heard that he nails each of his songs, that he knocks each one out of the park!  I hope the Convo is filled to give a salute to a wonderful musician from Arkansas.

"I Won!!!! - Something!!!"

The White County Creative Writers 17th Annual Writers' Conference held at Harding University Campus sponsored a New Writer Contest, among 12 other contests.  This contest subject was a "storm story" either true or fiction.  I won 2nd place!  It's a milestone for me, the first time I entered a writing contest and won - anything!  I don't know how many entries there were or what kind of real competition existed, but I really don't care!  "I won, I won, I won - something!"  My story is entitled, "I'll Have 2 Krystals" and is a somewhat fictionalized account of a trip several of us made to Huntsville, Alabama, in the middle of a tornado outbreak.  I have published it in JOURNEYS - to the right.  Hope you'll enjoy it!

NOT A GRINCH!

Age and Health.  This post is Good News.  You can read on in peace.
Marvin's twin brother experienced a heart attack in January.  He is fine, but his ordeal and subsequent follow-up care served as a wake-up call to us.  How long had it been since Marvin visited the Stern Clinic?  Hmmmm. 5 years.  Time for a check-up.
The tests are far more sophisticated than they were even 5 years ago.  New tests have been added and more combined tests are performed.  Thank Goodness for SCS Insurance Benefit for Retirees.  Don't ever take that for granted!
After the nurse took him off the treadmill test when his BP spiked, we became concerned.  Well, turns out, that spike in BP was fairly normal.  After a week, Dr. Heart Specialist's secretary called to say - "He has a Perfect Heart."  It may be larger than most given the kind of work he's done all his life, but there is Not One Thing wrong with this man's heart.
It took a lot of money and days and tests to state in one sentence what I could have told them, from my perspective.
Marvin's Heart is huge with a capacity for love and tenderness like I have never experienced. He is so easily touched and moved emotionally with stories of family and sacrifice.  It is also a complicated heart, bruised and wounded through years of living. X-rays and CT scans do not reveal scar-tissue and caloused areas built up to cover pain.  His mouth sometimes betrays his heart, but who among us has not had that happen? Marvin's big, tough-guy persona and old-time, long-held value system puts a different picture out in public, sometimes, but I am here to state unequivocally, if anything is wrong with his heart, it's that it is 2 SIZES TOO LARGE.
Other Health News:
I'm fine!  Exercising and losing some stress weight, I hope.  I am cooking healthy stuff, cutting down on Diet Coke, eliminating fat-filled goey chocolate desserts, catfish and hushpuppies, and planning to live for a very long time.
Another Hallelujah health report comes from my dear friend Anita Simmons. She had been incognito for a while, but called me 2 weeks ago.  I felt like a piece of MY heart had been found and reinserted, making it whole once again. She is doing well and had a negative breast biopsy from tests last Wednesday.
Prayer requests for Lorraine Griffin.  She is fighting cancer which was well-advanced when discovered.
Try to remember that DARK CHOCOLATE is MEDICINALLY RECOMMENDED.

CAUTION: "Your Phone May Be Smarter Than It Looks"

Yep, we have new phones.  Both of us have DROIDS, RAZR. 
We have OtterBox Cases; mine is Pink over a white phone. I have loaded pictures into the Gallery.... "SWOOSH!" and there they are. Voila'!
Ringtones from my former-fone were easy to move over. I love the size; it fits so nicely into my grasp. So much less likely to drop the thing when I have 5 things in my hands and easier to find in the bottom of my purse.  And, it has a car mount that fits into the air vent in the car.  Cool!
This phone may replace my desire to hold a map....I can just hold the phone! I could be even more dangerous.
The service is Verizon, so the reception up here will be much better, and nation-wide, too, as I have read. 
For the contact photos, I have selected the most beautiful and handsome for each of you.  So, if you are worried about the photo I have for you, best get one sent my way!  Hershey has a cute one for her contact (Vet, Grooming, etc. hahaha), and you should, too. No, she does not talk on the phone, but, could the voice activated mechanism translate doggie into southern?  
The phone calendar syncs to my Google Calendar and to my Google+ Account. I have no excuses!  This should be fun.
As Jana stated, local numbers will sit much better with the constituants, since Marvin is on the ballot for City Council.  Jana suggests I might be First Lady of Rector City Council - might be a stretch!    Marvin Gatewood for City Council, Pos#2
If I look in my rear view mirror, I will probably see this Pink Fone, trying to sneak up on me, looming larger than I might have imagined.

The Candidate, 2012

     Robert Redford starred in the 1972 movie, The Candidate, a great movie wherein an unknown political newbie emerges to win an election over the corrupt establishment.  I remember being so taken with both Robert Redford and the movie that when The Senator was playing out at the Mall of Memphis, nothing would do but that we attend!  Yes, the showing was a late show, but that did not garner any special attention.  Yes, we were among about 50 people standing in line to get in.  Yes, I did get "carded."  I know I am a young looking chick, but really.  Even in New Orleans at Pete Fountains at age 17, I did not get carded.  Hmmmm.  This is most unusual, I thought.
    The Senator was an X or XXX rated movie that showed me far more flesh than I could take in.  The movie scenes on the deck of a yacht had me covering my eyes.  "We've got to go!" I said, begging to leave.  "It'll get better," he said.  "Yeah, but what do you mean by better, that's what I want to know!"

        Today, 40 years later, I am married to The Candidate, my version of Robert Redford.  Marvin has filed for Position 2 in the West Ward of the City of Rector for City Council.  Election Day:  November 6, 2012.  That's exciting.  Does this mean that I need a new wardrobe since I am the wife of the candidate?  Is this a call for Extreme Shopping? Marvin said he thought it important to immediately start kissing babies.
              I told him that was OK, as long as they were wearing diapers!

Hero, General, King of South Carolina

August.  School.  Meeting to drop retrieve children. Flood of memories.
     David and his girlfriend Colby kept Hershey for a few days while Marvin and I had some out of town business to attend to.  So, today, I drove to McDonald’s in Marion, AR, to pick up Hershey.  When she saw her Mommy, she was all moving legs and tail: wiggle-wiggle-wiggle to get to me!  That is a treat - to have my baby want to come back home with me, because when I retrieved my sons from visiting their Nana and Poppy, they did not want to get into my car. Back to reality was no fun, whatsoever.

     One such extreme memory involves Richard.  When he was in Camden, he was Hero, General, and King of the World.  Who would want to leave that kingdom to come back to Memphis to begin the school year in 3^rd grade!  He was thrilled to see his Mommy, but when we started loading His Things into my car, he wanted to load My Things into Nana and Poppy’s car.  Why couldn’t Mommy just go with him and stay down there.  They don’t have school down in Camden!

     When we explained reality, it was not well received.  Richard tried to hide under the seats by scrunching as far down in the floorboard of the back seat as he could.  Then, he’d become a dead weight and I had to literally drag him out of their car.  I wanted so badly to crawl in there myself! As they drove away from the Dillard’s parking lot, both Richard and I were crying.

Now, Richard is Hero, General, and King of his own life and has moved to Charleston, SC, to finish up his schooling in Landscape/Turf Management, Tree Doctoring, and similar.  A great place to be with that field is South Carolina. There must be a million golf courses and a national tree company that has tons of business.  Plenty of opportunities for internships, etc. exist there.  Not to mention, it’s where Rhett Butler’s people are from and where Scarlett went to “get him back.”

Marvin and I did not get to Charleston when we were in Hilton Head in April, but it was an area we loved.  And, I think it’s a perfect fit for Richard.  His girlfriend Maurene is there, also.  And so is Lincoln, their hound dog puppy.

His schooling there starts August 20, and it’s what he wants, where he wants, and what he wants to do.  No one is pulling him out of the car to do anything else! 

Hot Chicks in Rector: Girl Weekend

             Are there any topics that Kelly and I left untouched in our brief visit Friday evening and Saturday, July 27-28, 2012?   Hmmmm.  Nope.  We covered them all.  Don’t get too nervous, girls, everyone was treated fairly: we did not overlook anyone or anything. You should have been here to join us! 

While we had terrific conversations when we both worked at BHS, we never had time to get it all talked about. We talked like men and “cut to the chase.” We’d be in one or the other’s office conducting business, gradually begin to share a few girl-talk moments, and the radio would page one of us or the phone would ring, and off we’d go. Regardless of the age difference, as in “my older son is your age,” we are friends and respect each other’s opinion and insight. 

Marvin said he did not realize how much more talking I could do with a girlfriend than I usually do each day.  Thanking Kelly for coming up, he joked that with every topic she and I talked about, that was one less he had to hear about!  (Ha, Ha!  He’s so funny.)  He was astonished that we rarely took a breath and had no silences.  Don’t worry about him, as he has been exposed to my life and times for 7 years now, and there is not much he has not heard. He knows all the major players and their stories. 

Saturday, after breakfast, we headed for the pool and he went off to do good deeds around town, spreading good will and cheer, 5 months ahead of Christmas.  I had bought Hershey a one-piece “swim suit” – actually a pink and brown life preserver, size XS, when I was at the Doggie Duds shop in Chattanooga.  She looked so cute in it, but regardless, frantically dog paddled at the side of the pool and wanted out.  Then, she was so upset, she tinkled on the pool deck.  Poor Hershey – sacrificing for fashion.  When Marvin came home for late lunch, he said he could hear us talking and laughing when he pulled into the driveway.  I’m actually not surprised, at all.

Kelly mentioned a road trip. So, what do ya’ll think about Charlene’s up near Dyersburg in Halls, TN? The experience at Christmas is one of a kind and Kelly has been there, really enjoying it.  More to the Colony now and updated (new and improved!). http://www.charlenes.net    Kelly mentioned doing a day over there during Fall Break.  Ya’ll check out your calenders!  “Life is always better with friends by your side. I’ll go if you’ll go….” 

Wouldn’t it be fun to enjoy a Charlene’s shopping and tea room experience and then, come on over to my place for a “bunking party!” The more the merrier. Check on it, girls! The pool will be closed, but everything else will be open for the business of Good Talk and Good Times.

Country Living: By the Side of the Road

CT Gordon/ Horne Home 1932

     The side of the road carries a fascination to me.  Richard was embarrassed, but he and I dragged home a blue “pleather” Queen Anne chair to provide extra seating for the Cordova den. It had a short shelf-life. A Peabody hotel key fob and other treasures are apt to be unearthed by adventuresome trash-pickers.  Though not a dumpster diver, I have found excitement in digging for buried treasure. As a disclaimer:  treasure does not include road-kill. One of our favorite programs is “American Pickers” on the History Channel.      
      Another treat often found on the side of the road is the Roadside Fruit and Vegetable Stand.  Growing up in south Arkansas, I experienced the delicious beauty of fresh fruit and fresh vegetables that my mother, my grandmother and her sisters brought home.  We often drove to the “meeting place” outside El Dorado, AR, on the road to Ruston, LA, to exchange produce between Camden and Ruston.  We often brought muscadine jelly and plum preserves, made in my grandmother’s kitchen at The Big House. These muscadines were picked from vines on the old Gordon homeplace in the Mt. Holly area of Union County.  Mamie (our long-time family cook), Mother, and Nana would make the jellies and preserves and put the delicious concoction into Ball jars, add paraffin to the top for sealing, then add the lids so they would form a seal to keep all the goodness in.

1932 Dec. Newspaper protects radiator.

I did not help, but would watch in fascination. After the day-long kitchen adventure, they’d store the multitude of jars in the cool room under the back staircase.  Some of the jars would be placed into a handled long basket for “Sookie.” We’d also take tomatoes and some beans and peas. Depending on the season, we might share some pecans that fell from a multitude of trees on the CT Gordon home site, the CG Horne Home location where I lived until 4th grade. 

Dec. 1955 Trip to Florida Sookie and Nana

      At the meeting place, Sookie would unload Ruston Peaches from the trunk of her car.  She’d usually have other goodies, cakes, etc. that her cook had made and even some Shipley’s donuts that were incredibly delicious when warmed up. I looked forward to these road trips.  We got to see Jack, Dot, and Sookie (my great aunt Susie Gordon Ritchie). This was also the place we’d meet if Mib (Nana) was going to spend a week with her sister in Ruston, or vice-versa.  These sisters were the best of friends.
     To continue the tradition, I always have my eyes open for good roadside fruit and vegetables.  One such place is Brinkley, Arkansas, behind the Exxon and the McDonald’s.  Going to or coming from Camden, I always stopped at Brinkley.  They have wonderful peaches, cantaloupe, tomatoes, and new potatoes.

      When my route to south Arkansas changed and I-40 was no longer heavily traveled, I had to find another place to get peaches and other fresh fruit and vegetables.  Living here in Rector, that quest is not a problem.  Here’s the scoop:  Campbell, MO for peaches.  Local farms and gardens have roadside stands for tomatoes (Warren Tomatoes!!) and cantaloupes.  Outside of town is a large garden to get green, yellow, and red peppers, tomatoes, and sweet corn. Our yard has 3 cherry trees but the apple tree is not doing well.  The grape arbor has lots of grapes, but I did not get into grape picking this summer. During the fall, Marvin’s mother’s yard is the site for gathering pecans. Nothing like fresh!  Nothing like “side of the road” or your own back yard.

 Marvin and I have sliced tomatoes with supper at least 4 times a week.  We love stuffed green peppers and pork chops smothered with colorful peppers and tomatoes make a delicious entree.   Peaches are the main fruit July – August in a large bowl of fruit salad (strawberries, bananas, grapes, and peaches).  We enjoy the fruit salad for dessert or served on cereal or oatmeal for breakfast. The fruit is also a great side for Mother’s Pound Cake. Don’t forget peach cobbler (all my men love this dessert) and homemade peach ice cream.

          I did not realize how significant are my fruit and vegetable experiences, such that they form memories that celebrate my family.  With every purchase at the side of the road, and with every meal I prepare with fresh produce, I salute Mother, Nana, and Sookie, and of course, Mamie!