Yes, actually, that's a true statement. That horse had a longer looking head and as it narrowed to his muzzle, the angle began to curve slightly downward. What a special looking horse! NOT!
I didn't care for them at all...I wanted a beautiful horse who could run like the wind. And, I got him. Rounding the last curve to approach our house on the hill out in the country, I sat next to the window on Bus #25! Yep, rode that dumb bus for many years.
Mr. Worrell drove it. He obviously didn't like the country ( I'm not sure he liked anything or anybody ) and I got on his nerves! Go figure! On my 9th birthday, we rounded that curve and as he pulled to a grinding halt in the middle of the gravel road, I lifted my eyes up the driveway and exploded!
Standing with a brand new saddle, blanket and bridle was the most gorgeous paint gelding I'd ever seen! WOW! My hundred petticoats 'neath my royal blue skirt bounced up and down as my Penny Loafers carried me like the wind.
That boy was tied to the white rail fence beside the mailbox. As I ran, dropped books and screamed in delight, daddy came bouncing out of the dairy barn to meet me.
He said, "Happy Birthday, daughter. He's a 3 year old gelding I bought from Bill Swanner." I didn't care...I jumped in the saddle and rode off down the road. The name of the gift became Commanche. Wrong choice, for he lived up to his name.
Basically, he was 'green broke' ... meaning broke to ride, sort of. He had a long way to go, baby. The next day I entered the pasture and caught him, clipped my lead line to his halter and led him to the garage to saddle him. He wasn't happy. I didn't care.
I led him out into the drive and placed my left foot in the stirrup. Once aboard, we turned to head out the drive for a day's pleasure. Not to be. Commanche, remember? He began to 'crow hop' (meaning just kicking both back feet up a little into the air) and then, he began to buck. Small buck, but buck.
Jim was home (my brother) and he came and got on that beautiful, dumb horse! Dumb because he didn't realize what a great home he would have!! lolol and, ME!
I stood and watched as Jim rode that gelding down the pasture hill to the bottom land. There was a 'slew' of water that ran and long way through the middle of the far pasture there. He kicked that horse into high gear and rode him to death. Round and round the slew, across the slew and wore him down.
When Commanche came walking up the drive, he'd had IT. So, I got to jump on and enjoy riding then.
The most fascinating part of that entire scenerio? My brother didn't give a whistle over horses! But, for the next few weeks, he'd ride the horse down so I could get on. One day I decided to just ride. Wrong choice.
I had Commanche in the calf pasture. I'm glad, it was a softer landing. Remember, I'm 9 years old. I thought I was Annie Oakley, but I was just me. He bucked, I hit the ground, the tears came and I grabbed the reins and led him to the barn. My dad was milking cows, had his tall rubber boots on and said, lead him through here and give him to me.
Now, he was angry with the horse...forgot his boots were wet from cow, uhhh, stuff and water...my stirrups were my length (he was 6' tall)...and, he stepped into the saddle. Wrong formula. The horse bucked, the slippery boots flew out of the very short stirrups and my dad hit the ground. He led the horse back to me and said, 'he'll be sold this week." End of Commanche's life on our farm.
Sold him. Found a nine year old gelding that was as gentle as a breeze, brought him home and loved him for years. I write of the farm often, but after all, I didn't leave the farm until age 23. We had many tremendous experiences on the farm and of course, we were shaping our lives.
I credit parents, always, for their love and strong values passed on to us. But, I also love the old days we were privileged to experience. Young folks will never know about stopping to buy a bottled drink out of the ice chest in the store. They'll never dig under the cushions for one more penny or nickel to complete the deal so everyone in the car can have a soda. A loaf of bread for a quarter; a hamburger for a quarter; a bag of chips for a nickel; a mound of groceries in the basket every Saturday for a whopping $35; a ride through Cameron Park and picnics under the giant, old oak trees and so much more.
We ran, chased, played, studied and passed Life 101 back then. Baby Boomers we are...but, I wouldn't have it any other way. Life was slower, more enriched and robust with experiences. We didn't fear drive-by shootings, robbery on the parking lot or worse. And, in those days, we rarely locked our doors. There was trust, integrity, love, patience and more.
Did we know our neighbors? Certainly. Would we be there for them, of course. Life was an entirely different level back in our days. And, from all of that Essence of Life, I learned to be independent, assertive, caring and respectful of all. If you hesitate and think about it, our era steeped us in all the 'right stuff'! It's difficult to be obnoxious or rude, disrespectful or discourteous and, that makes me proud.
Parents, aunts and uncles and goodest 'ol grammas...carved some good folks out of us. I'm facing one more huge change in my life. I bet some of you have and will, as well. Aren't ya glad we have inner strength to pull us through and...for me? My faith in the Lord steeps me in comfort, calm and the ability to face medical challenges now. I'm not sure how a non-believer gets through ordeals, tragedy and loss, but I'm thankful I do have Him on my side!!
Pause and have a cup of coffee as you reflect on your past. Don't sit and think of the wrong things, the bad events or the worst times in your life. Reflect on the positives, the celebrations and the victories you had as a family. Sometimes, we do need to JUST SIT AND THINK! Would you like cream and sugar?
About Me
- txspatter
- Humble, Texas, United States
- Retired educator, retired freelance photographer, retired life. I loved the classroom, laughter of the students, small successes that made them glow and the feeling of 'family' among faculty. However, job done and on to new things. Life was on 'cruise control' until March, 2004...and then, there was a halting screech, lung and heart issues and physicians galore. But, I beat the odds and HERE I AM...STILL HUFFIN' AND PUFFIN'!!! Let's see where this leads.....
Saturday, November 1, 2008
Friday, October 31, 2008
Country Girl Meets a Farmer
It's time to 'catch up' on the events in the life of a Lap Band candidate of the year!! I had to see my PCP yesterday (end of the month, ya know) and weigh in and talk and smile! Finally a better report...-6 pounds! He was happy and, so was I!
Leaving his office, I walked to the other end of the hall and entered the Baylor College of Med Cardiology Department. I was to see Dr. Farmer for the first time.
He was nice, laid back, calm, and sorta looked like an older Papaw to me! But, he made this 'chicken girl' feel more at ease. I have great anxiety (cowardness) when I meet new doctors. They're all looking for something. WRONG! Yipes. I knew he'd get close and personal!
Following our long chat, I was off to the back area for an echo cardiogram and an EKG. It was arduous. A very small framed, tiny woman did the echo. I didn't realize someone that small could almost push an instrument straight through to my backbone. OUCH AND OUCH AGAIN! Yep, bruised and sore as can be today.
She was tiny, I was, well, not tiny! She was sure I was dying. I knew I was not. She didn't think I could take it. Fooled her. She ended up and had a nurse come and shoot dye in my veins. I wanted to shoot her!! The nurse flipped when she stuck the OSAT thingy on my index finger.
Oops, it's only 82. She said, "I need to put oxygen on you." I said, "you're right. Make that 3 liters to go, please and I'll behave myself." She smiled and nodded as if to say, "you don't realize it, but you slipping away...you'll probably be gone by the time the test ends!" Now that was funny!
She put oxygen on me and then she said, "Wow, right back up!" I said, "to what is it?" (I already knew) Her reply, "unbelievable, 98% !!" Finally, she relaxed! It truly was comical. But, they don't get too many goofed up big girls like me, I'm sure!
Got the doctor's phone call this afternoon. I was sweatin' bullets. They made me decide something was wrong! He said, "I have a good report on you!" Well, blow me over! I was so happy!!! There is no kind of leakage with any of the valves and the pressures are all good!
He is sending a letter to my surgeon stating I'm good to go! And, he's glad for the Lap Band...he says all will be even better and the heart won't work as hard. YA THANK??!! I already done figgered that out mysef!!!!!
Anyhow, comes November and December and then....dom, dom da dom, dom da dom da dom da dommmmmmmmm! S u r g e r y!!
So, we've invited my family here for Thanksgiving (traditional, my request) and we are going to Michael's daughter's home for Christmas in Tampa. Gotta celebrate and enjoy prior to....dom, dom da dom, dom da dom da dom da dommmmmm!!
We treated ourselves to a new Chinese Buffet place here today. We got a Seafood something off the buffet. Michael took his first bite and said, "I'm not sure what that was, it was too chewy. But, I see you have one to." Oh great, I'm thinking as I look at that whatever it was. So, I forked it and flew it between my lips and over the teeth and began to chew. ARE YOU KIDDING ME? It got bigger and more rubbery and bigger and more rubbery. He began to laugh and finally, I grabbed my nappy and nested that THING in the napkin.
Me thinks it was calamari...cut larger and musta been an old fella when they caught him. Tough old thang. Anyhow, a nice lunch and then we went and bought two different kinds of palm trees. We're landscaping and doing the tropical look. IT IS SO COOL!
And, so...tonight, I'm chillin' and bangin' this keyboard. I'm getting better at facing new doctors. My blood pressure is very good when they pump it up. A good beginning. I guess as we get older, we decide, what the hey. Whatever is, is. There's not a lot we can do about it. I'm so glad to be this age and have all the hoopla behind me.
We're older, perhaps wiser (perhaps not), we're retired so we can say or do whatever we wanna, many of us have blue decals for handicap!!!...mine's on my license plate these days and some of us are old enough for the Senior price at Denny's!! Hey, that's livin'!!
Now, what will this old, fat chick decide do to tomorrow? Shhhhhhh. I'll never tell!
Leaving his office, I walked to the other end of the hall and entered the Baylor College of Med Cardiology Department. I was to see Dr. Farmer for the first time.
He was nice, laid back, calm, and sorta looked like an older Papaw to me! But, he made this 'chicken girl' feel more at ease. I have great anxiety (cowardness) when I meet new doctors. They're all looking for something. WRONG! Yipes. I knew he'd get close and personal!
Following our long chat, I was off to the back area for an echo cardiogram and an EKG. It was arduous. A very small framed, tiny woman did the echo. I didn't realize someone that small could almost push an instrument straight through to my backbone. OUCH AND OUCH AGAIN! Yep, bruised and sore as can be today.
She was tiny, I was, well, not tiny! She was sure I was dying. I knew I was not. She didn't think I could take it. Fooled her. She ended up and had a nurse come and shoot dye in my veins. I wanted to shoot her!! The nurse flipped when she stuck the OSAT thingy on my index finger.
Oops, it's only 82. She said, "I need to put oxygen on you." I said, "you're right. Make that 3 liters to go, please and I'll behave myself." She smiled and nodded as if to say, "you don't realize it, but you slipping away...you'll probably be gone by the time the test ends!" Now that was funny!
She put oxygen on me and then she said, "Wow, right back up!" I said, "to what is it?" (I already knew) Her reply, "unbelievable, 98% !!" Finally, she relaxed! It truly was comical. But, they don't get too many goofed up big girls like me, I'm sure!
Got the doctor's phone call this afternoon. I was sweatin' bullets. They made me decide something was wrong! He said, "I have a good report on you!" Well, blow me over! I was so happy!!! There is no kind of leakage with any of the valves and the pressures are all good!
He is sending a letter to my surgeon stating I'm good to go! And, he's glad for the Lap Band...he says all will be even better and the heart won't work as hard. YA THANK??!! I already done figgered that out mysef!!!!!
Anyhow, comes November and December and then....dom, dom da dom, dom da dom da dom da dommmmmmmmm! S u r g e r y!!
So, we've invited my family here for Thanksgiving (traditional, my request) and we are going to Michael's daughter's home for Christmas in Tampa. Gotta celebrate and enjoy prior to....dom, dom da dom, dom da dom da dom da dommmmmm!!
We treated ourselves to a new Chinese Buffet place here today. We got a Seafood something off the buffet. Michael took his first bite and said, "I'm not sure what that was, it was too chewy. But, I see you have one to." Oh great, I'm thinking as I look at that whatever it was. So, I forked it and flew it between my lips and over the teeth and began to chew. ARE YOU KIDDING ME? It got bigger and more rubbery and bigger and more rubbery. He began to laugh and finally, I grabbed my nappy and nested that THING in the napkin.
Me thinks it was calamari...cut larger and musta been an old fella when they caught him. Tough old thang. Anyhow, a nice lunch and then we went and bought two different kinds of palm trees. We're landscaping and doing the tropical look. IT IS SO COOL!
And, so...tonight, I'm chillin' and bangin' this keyboard. I'm getting better at facing new doctors. My blood pressure is very good when they pump it up. A good beginning. I guess as we get older, we decide, what the hey. Whatever is, is. There's not a lot we can do about it. I'm so glad to be this age and have all the hoopla behind me.
We're older, perhaps wiser (perhaps not), we're retired so we can say or do whatever we wanna, many of us have blue decals for handicap!!!...mine's on my license plate these days and some of us are old enough for the Senior price at Denny's!! Hey, that's livin'!!
Now, what will this old, fat chick decide do to tomorrow? Shhhhhhh. I'll never tell!
Sunday, October 26, 2008
Sunday Afternoon Football
My daddy watched football til the cows came home! No, really...till he had to milk those girls!! After he sold the dairy, no question about Sunday afternoons, it was football, coffee and small talk. Mother was right there as well. And, as a widow, she watched football games in the fall, basketball playoffs, baseball all the time and loved to watch Tiger Woods on the golf course!!
With the cool Fall weather here upon us, it's easy for me to think of those 'goodest 'ol days' when life was just life! One of the first impressions that surfs through the empty spaces in my head is the picture of the lazy bottom that lay out in front of the house. You had to cross the gravel road, drive, ride or run down the lazy hill to get into the pasture part and then, nothin' but space.
Our big white house had a huge front porch, painted gray. You could sit on the top step and stare out over the land and dream anything you wanted. Now when I did that, Rip was right there wondering what I was thinking. He was a most faithful German Shepherd and smarter than most.
There was a tank in the right lower pasture there. We hosted wiener roasts, hayrides, sing alongs and anything else you can think of. My brother, Jim, would bring Golden Wave Band members out to the farm for different things. We always had church groups out for hayrides and wiener roasts and...when family came from the coast, there were times we shared that same fun event with all of them.
Our house had 10' ceilings and daddy and I guess, Jimmy had helped...converted the long open hallway into a nice living room area. We picked out pale green shag carpet for that floor and who would have ever guessed? The most unusual, but fun, group to watch sit all over that floor and furniture were the Kappa Kappa Psi members from the Baylor band.
Jim would have them out for the Academy Awards night. Mother would prepare food, they would all begin arriving and me? I was a silly teenager who stared and picked out all the cute ones!!
Those guys came from some ultra rich families and homes from all over the place, but when they hit our living room...they were more at home than most. It didn't matter that the drive was somewhat lengthy to get out there. It didn't matter that the smell of a dairy hit your senses as you drove up the long drive. It didn't matter that we were 'country folk'...all that mattered was laughter, fun, the warmth of our home open to them and good times they all spent watching our little 29" or whatever size tv we had.
Life as we grew up was simple compared to the chaos and challenges of today's world. Many days I thank my lucky stars to have been a baby boomer for those days were truly the GOOD 'OL DAYS! We played games, went to movies, went to fellowship and went to school. Succeeding was high on our lists because we didn't want to let our parents down.
Our parents had expectations for our lives. They talked to us, they supported our choices and they cheered when we graduated from LaVega High School. They'd have it no other way back then.
The past couple of weeks have offered some moments of frustration for me. I've had the eye surgeries...doing fine. I'm recooperating and seeing interns. But, in the back of my mind, the clock is ticking a bit faster over January's approach. The month of January issues in a an entire new spin on my life. I find myself wondering if I'm ready for this change? What am I really made of?
On those days I know I'm thinking far too much (most of them), I make me slow down and remember the good times. And suddenly, I wonder about those folks who have no good times to fall back on? What do they do?
I can't solve those thoughts...I can just sits and thanks about 'em. I do know that the family/friends connection sure makes a difference. No, I don't hear from people every day...sometimes it's long periods of time in between. But when I do hear from them it's neat to know they are thinking about me and wishing good things for me.
Foundation. That's what we all have by this time. Life's foundation. It came from elementary, junior high (barf) and high school. Some of those teachers I despised an some I worshiped...Mabel Legg...she was the bestest of the restest!
I hope this week smooths out and runs like a mercedes...but, it may not. I do know that each day and week now brings me closer to my new challenge. Thank goodness I will be asleep for the carving party!
I've spent today catching up in the house. Laundry, vacuuming, dusting, etc. etc etc. Clutter drives me crazy and I need something to do anyway. In some of the past critical times with my sweet mother and her health...you could even find me ironing in the middle of the night!
That's right. It sort of became the 'joke' about me in a crisis! Make me worry over health conditions of a loved one and I'll probably break out the iron! Hey, it worked then...probably still would.
All I have to say at the end of this epistle is this... I DO KNOW WHERE MY IRON IS!!! Do you? lololol
Have a super week and make someone smile! Do something special and kinda sneaky! It's fun!
With the cool Fall weather here upon us, it's easy for me to think of those 'goodest 'ol days' when life was just life! One of the first impressions that surfs through the empty spaces in my head is the picture of the lazy bottom that lay out in front of the house. You had to cross the gravel road, drive, ride or run down the lazy hill to get into the pasture part and then, nothin' but space.
Our big white house had a huge front porch, painted gray. You could sit on the top step and stare out over the land and dream anything you wanted. Now when I did that, Rip was right there wondering what I was thinking. He was a most faithful German Shepherd and smarter than most.
There was a tank in the right lower pasture there. We hosted wiener roasts, hayrides, sing alongs and anything else you can think of. My brother, Jim, would bring Golden Wave Band members out to the farm for different things. We always had church groups out for hayrides and wiener roasts and...when family came from the coast, there were times we shared that same fun event with all of them.
Our house had 10' ceilings and daddy and I guess, Jimmy had helped...converted the long open hallway into a nice living room area. We picked out pale green shag carpet for that floor and who would have ever guessed? The most unusual, but fun, group to watch sit all over that floor and furniture were the Kappa Kappa Psi members from the Baylor band.
Jim would have them out for the Academy Awards night. Mother would prepare food, they would all begin arriving and me? I was a silly teenager who stared and picked out all the cute ones!!
Those guys came from some ultra rich families and homes from all over the place, but when they hit our living room...they were more at home than most. It didn't matter that the drive was somewhat lengthy to get out there. It didn't matter that the smell of a dairy hit your senses as you drove up the long drive. It didn't matter that we were 'country folk'...all that mattered was laughter, fun, the warmth of our home open to them and good times they all spent watching our little 29" or whatever size tv we had.
Life as we grew up was simple compared to the chaos and challenges of today's world. Many days I thank my lucky stars to have been a baby boomer for those days were truly the GOOD 'OL DAYS! We played games, went to movies, went to fellowship and went to school. Succeeding was high on our lists because we didn't want to let our parents down.
Our parents had expectations for our lives. They talked to us, they supported our choices and they cheered when we graduated from LaVega High School. They'd have it no other way back then.
The past couple of weeks have offered some moments of frustration for me. I've had the eye surgeries...doing fine. I'm recooperating and seeing interns. But, in the back of my mind, the clock is ticking a bit faster over January's approach. The month of January issues in a an entire new spin on my life. I find myself wondering if I'm ready for this change? What am I really made of?
On those days I know I'm thinking far too much (most of them), I make me slow down and remember the good times. And suddenly, I wonder about those folks who have no good times to fall back on? What do they do?
I can't solve those thoughts...I can just sits and thanks about 'em. I do know that the family/friends connection sure makes a difference. No, I don't hear from people every day...sometimes it's long periods of time in between. But when I do hear from them it's neat to know they are thinking about me and wishing good things for me.
Foundation. That's what we all have by this time. Life's foundation. It came from elementary, junior high (barf) and high school. Some of those teachers I despised an some I worshiped...Mabel Legg...she was the bestest of the restest!
I hope this week smooths out and runs like a mercedes...but, it may not. I do know that each day and week now brings me closer to my new challenge. Thank goodness I will be asleep for the carving party!
I've spent today catching up in the house. Laundry, vacuuming, dusting, etc. etc etc. Clutter drives me crazy and I need something to do anyway. In some of the past critical times with my sweet mother and her health...you could even find me ironing in the middle of the night!
That's right. It sort of became the 'joke' about me in a crisis! Make me worry over health conditions of a loved one and I'll probably break out the iron! Hey, it worked then...probably still would.
All I have to say at the end of this epistle is this... I DO KNOW WHERE MY IRON IS!!! Do you? lololol
Have a super week and make someone smile! Do something special and kinda sneaky! It's fun!
Thursday, October 23, 2008
Food for Thought
As long and arduous as my day was today, I came home in a good frame of mind and prepared to enjoy the evening. Michael and I went out to dinner at Amedaus, Italian, of course...I had my first Peach Belini...very sinful, but, I did enjoy it! Following appetizer and tremendous entrees, we headed home to 'crash!'
I've become great at crashing. I push all day, whether seeing interns or not, and go with a a full steam. Guess that comes from my sweet mother...my brother Jim, is the same way. However, I'd have to admit he's run circles round me all my life with energy, planning and all. But, I could do some horseback riding to match no other and spike a volleyball with finesse and a smile! That was a lot of fun...and running those bleachers (about a million a day) and skipping that dumb rope kept me hopping!
As I struggled with students' attitudes in classrooms today, I fell into some deep thoughts regarding today and the yesterdays. We grew up with strong parenting, strong Christian homes, loving parents and a good life. We respected all elders, saying "Yes Maam" and "No Maam", showing kindess in word and deed and would never think to humiliate anyone with our rudeness and disrespect for all humanity.
Some of the students in these schools have little or no respect for anyone or anything. It's all about them, their 'wanna be' gangs and get out of my way. My, how times have changed! It makes me very thankful to have retired in 2002. My Interns are dealing with some challenges that I would not even care to think about having to control today. I'd probably go to prison for 'hurtin' sumbody bad!! lolol
When I began teaching, I was in a learning curve for a few years. Then, I thought I was the expert. WRONG ANSWER! What I was then, more confident and loving my position. I looked forward to getting to school to see what each day would bring. Sometimes fun, sometimes problematic, sometimes just a nice day with a good end to it.
As I drove all over Houston town today, my mind wandered (as it does frequently) to some dear old friends from the Waco area. They lived out in the country, beautiful brick home, acres and acres of land, cattle, a business...but, they both taught school as well! She taught reading, he taught elementary, was a principal for a few years and even coached middle school basketball just because. They loved life. They were laid back. They had it all going their way.
Suddenly, their lives changed when he laid his hand on the back of a 5th grader's shoulder as he said, "go back to your desk and sit down." The little girl trumped a big lie up and said, "he fondled me in front of the class!" She had a small group of little girl friends who fell right into that scenario as her witnesses.
It ruined his life. He was indicted but, not brought to trial for nearly two years. The Waco DA was up for re-election, I'm guessing that looked good for him. My friend however was ruined. He would not take a 'leave' from his school position, he resigned. He thought every day he would be sent to prison for nothing. Retirement was only a short, few years away for him in the education circle...but, he would never get to retire and draw that pension.
He resigned and spent many weeks and months staying around home suffering terrible anxiety attacks, especially when he'd be outside working and see a neighbor drive by. His pain would be overwhelming from embarrassment and anguish, causing him to retire inside for the remainder of any given day.
Ultimately, the charges were dropped. Time had passed, each little girl's family had relocated for whatever reasons and as the subpoenas were being delivered, each little girl broke down in tears and admitted, she lied.
Luckily for my friend and his wife, he had been given a job at a local business establishment and had rebuilt his life.
All of us suffer pain and unpleasant events in our daily lives. Sometimes it becomes too easy for me to feel so empathetic for myself! And, then...I think of friends, family, past acquaintances, etc. and recall some of the challenges they had or, perhaps, are having , and my life doesn't seem so bad.
The second cataract surgery this past Tuesday was one more huge challenge for me, I admit it! I thought I had it made. I'd been there, done that with the right eye, I knew what to expect! WRONG ANSWER, AGAIN!!
Tough 'ol cataract in that eye. I was hanging in there, under the cloth that covered by face, listening the rock 'n roll music playing and trying to think good thoughts about surviving the ordeal! But, the doctor said, "well, go ahead and get ??? instrument ready, I can't get hold of it!"
My mind screamed WHAT DID YOU JUST SAY? Just listen to the music, think good thoughts, DO NOT PANIC! And then he said, "oh, never mind, I got it..good to go!" HALLE LU JAH BROTHAS AND SISTAS!!
And, yes, I survived the second and I'm so happy we don't have three eyes!!! I think twice around the block is all I'm capable of for now!
Life experiences. Life challenges. Life changing ordeals. Life threatening instances. Life altering events. Life one day at a time.
That's what all of us are about. Lately, if I allow me to slip a little and begin to think, oh woe is me, I change the thought to OH WHOA is me!! Get with it. Buck up. Face the music and be the best at whatever!
I face some music tomorrow at 2:30. I'm see the Baylor College of Med Cardiologist. Joy. Wow, I just can't wait. Am I nervous? Yep. Am I hesitant? Yep. Am I still a chicken? YEP, YEP, CLUCK, CLUCK!!
Bottom line, this too shall pass. My neat experience today was a phone call at the end of the day. I called a friend. No answer. I left a silly message on the home line. I called the cell number. No answer. Within 5 seconds, my cell phone rang.
"What's wrong? Are you okay?" Wow! That was too cool. Just knowing that one friend would drop everything, including a call she was on to immediately call me. She knew with two phone calls in a row, something was up.
Not really, I just wanted to say hello and share some thoughts! But, a nice ending to a long day!
Be a great friend, a good neighbor and a concerned 'on looker'. If your life is flowing smoothly tonight, congratulations! If you have a few bumps in the road, congratulations again. Those are the things we handle. Keep your heads up, your eyes open and your 'random acts of kindness' on call!
The smallest, most insignificant thing can mean the world to that person having any size struggle at any given moment. I'm facing surgery in January. The best part of that I know for sure... I WILL BE PUT TO SLEEP!! I will not be hearing the doctors discuss this and that and PAT'S FAT!! J/K!!!
Be strong. Laugh often.Live life before it runs out!!
I've become great at crashing. I push all day, whether seeing interns or not, and go with a a full steam. Guess that comes from my sweet mother...my brother Jim, is the same way. However, I'd have to admit he's run circles round me all my life with energy, planning and all. But, I could do some horseback riding to match no other and spike a volleyball with finesse and a smile! That was a lot of fun...and running those bleachers (about a million a day) and skipping that dumb rope kept me hopping!
As I struggled with students' attitudes in classrooms today, I fell into some deep thoughts regarding today and the yesterdays. We grew up with strong parenting, strong Christian homes, loving parents and a good life. We respected all elders, saying "Yes Maam" and "No Maam", showing kindess in word and deed and would never think to humiliate anyone with our rudeness and disrespect for all humanity.
Some of the students in these schools have little or no respect for anyone or anything. It's all about them, their 'wanna be' gangs and get out of my way. My, how times have changed! It makes me very thankful to have retired in 2002. My Interns are dealing with some challenges that I would not even care to think about having to control today. I'd probably go to prison for 'hurtin' sumbody bad!! lolol
When I began teaching, I was in a learning curve for a few years. Then, I thought I was the expert. WRONG ANSWER! What I was then, more confident and loving my position. I looked forward to getting to school to see what each day would bring. Sometimes fun, sometimes problematic, sometimes just a nice day with a good end to it.
As I drove all over Houston town today, my mind wandered (as it does frequently) to some dear old friends from the Waco area. They lived out in the country, beautiful brick home, acres and acres of land, cattle, a business...but, they both taught school as well! She taught reading, he taught elementary, was a principal for a few years and even coached middle school basketball just because. They loved life. They were laid back. They had it all going their way.
Suddenly, their lives changed when he laid his hand on the back of a 5th grader's shoulder as he said, "go back to your desk and sit down." The little girl trumped a big lie up and said, "he fondled me in front of the class!" She had a small group of little girl friends who fell right into that scenario as her witnesses.
It ruined his life. He was indicted but, not brought to trial for nearly two years. The Waco DA was up for re-election, I'm guessing that looked good for him. My friend however was ruined. He would not take a 'leave' from his school position, he resigned. He thought every day he would be sent to prison for nothing. Retirement was only a short, few years away for him in the education circle...but, he would never get to retire and draw that pension.
He resigned and spent many weeks and months staying around home suffering terrible anxiety attacks, especially when he'd be outside working and see a neighbor drive by. His pain would be overwhelming from embarrassment and anguish, causing him to retire inside for the remainder of any given day.
Ultimately, the charges were dropped. Time had passed, each little girl's family had relocated for whatever reasons and as the subpoenas were being delivered, each little girl broke down in tears and admitted, she lied.
Luckily for my friend and his wife, he had been given a job at a local business establishment and had rebuilt his life.
All of us suffer pain and unpleasant events in our daily lives. Sometimes it becomes too easy for me to feel so empathetic for myself! And, then...I think of friends, family, past acquaintances, etc. and recall some of the challenges they had or, perhaps, are having , and my life doesn't seem so bad.
The second cataract surgery this past Tuesday was one more huge challenge for me, I admit it! I thought I had it made. I'd been there, done that with the right eye, I knew what to expect! WRONG ANSWER, AGAIN!!
Tough 'ol cataract in that eye. I was hanging in there, under the cloth that covered by face, listening the rock 'n roll music playing and trying to think good thoughts about surviving the ordeal! But, the doctor said, "well, go ahead and get ??? instrument ready, I can't get hold of it!"
My mind screamed WHAT DID YOU JUST SAY? Just listen to the music, think good thoughts, DO NOT PANIC! And then he said, "oh, never mind, I got it..good to go!" HALLE LU JAH BROTHAS AND SISTAS!!
And, yes, I survived the second and I'm so happy we don't have three eyes!!! I think twice around the block is all I'm capable of for now!
Life experiences. Life challenges. Life changing ordeals. Life threatening instances. Life altering events. Life one day at a time.
That's what all of us are about. Lately, if I allow me to slip a little and begin to think, oh woe is me, I change the thought to OH WHOA is me!! Get with it. Buck up. Face the music and be the best at whatever!
I face some music tomorrow at 2:30. I'm see the Baylor College of Med Cardiologist. Joy. Wow, I just can't wait. Am I nervous? Yep. Am I hesitant? Yep. Am I still a chicken? YEP, YEP, CLUCK, CLUCK!!
Bottom line, this too shall pass. My neat experience today was a phone call at the end of the day. I called a friend. No answer. I left a silly message on the home line. I called the cell number. No answer. Within 5 seconds, my cell phone rang.
"What's wrong? Are you okay?" Wow! That was too cool. Just knowing that one friend would drop everything, including a call she was on to immediately call me. She knew with two phone calls in a row, something was up.
Not really, I just wanted to say hello and share some thoughts! But, a nice ending to a long day!
Be a great friend, a good neighbor and a concerned 'on looker'. If your life is flowing smoothly tonight, congratulations! If you have a few bumps in the road, congratulations again. Those are the things we handle. Keep your heads up, your eyes open and your 'random acts of kindness' on call!
The smallest, most insignificant thing can mean the world to that person having any size struggle at any given moment. I'm facing surgery in January. The best part of that I know for sure... I WILL BE PUT TO SLEEP!! I will not be hearing the doctors discuss this and that and PAT'S FAT!! J/K!!!
Be strong. Laugh often.Live life before it runs out!!
Saturday, October 18, 2008
Freedman, Here's Your Camera
Ahh, the gold 'ol days at middle schools! My first year teaching was in Killeen ISD...elementary PE. Drove me nuts. I love those children, but, they are babies who wanna touch, hug and smile at you all the time! Sweet, but kids, remember, I need my 9' of personal space!
My career began there. Outside on a huge playground with one million physical education students grade 3-6! The bright spot in each day was 'Watkins', the boy's PE teacher. He was a hoot and I was hooter. We ran that playground and school like clock work! What he didn't know, I did. And, that was in the days of paddlin'. So, I shared my paper thin paddle that a fellow teacher made for me.
She painted it light blue, put really pretty butterfly decals all over it and tied a ribbon around it as a gift! Welcome to the world of Principal Gene Franklin, the man who believed in paddlin'!!!
Now, understand, the thin banger board didn't bruise anything...but it stung like the dickens. I had to learn how to administer 'licks' to kids with the tiniest hinies in the entire world! Oh, you say, how mean was that? Get over it! We didn't do it for fun, and for some odd reason back then, their brains were located in that very mysterious spot!
I learned so much that first year with Watkins as my mentor. But the funniest thing I learned was how to duck out of the book room when over taken by laughter as I witnessed him giving pops.
He took Kenneth in one afternoon after his third warning. Kenneth, the third grader leaned over, grabbed his ankles and that anchored his nose about 2" off the floor. I was standing behind and there it went. Strike one. Right on the tiny hiney! And, there went the largest of the butterfly decals...floating on air, just as if it was real.
It floated carefully to the floor, swooping under Kenneth's nose and gently landing perfectly right before his big, brown eyes. That kid's eyes flew open, his mouth gaped and he drew a big breath! But, he was frozen in place and dared not say a word, he was already in big trouble! He thought the real deal had flown in the book room. I was overtaken by the whole scene and barely managed to excuse myself.
Lucky Kenneth, got him out of a boatload of trouble. Watkins lost control and as he began to laugh, told Kenneth to go to class! Ya had to be there to really appreciate it all.
In August, 1981, I accepted a position in Humble ISD. I told Ed Denney, the principal, I really didn't care to coach any longer. However, one of his women coaches had to return to Victoria to live with parents and take care of them. So, I coached three years there. When it was no longer 'fun' for me, I told him, "it's time to get me out of the coaching scene. The girls are worried about sweating in practice because the boys might be at the mall when they got there!" GIVE ME A BREAK!
Thus, he said, "ok, Freedman, I need a Journalism teacher and that's your minor. You'll continue as Health Department Chair and teach Journalism, sponsor Yearbook and Newspaper." That was okay with me...ready to go.
School began and I had my classes assigned. As I stood outside my room one day, Joyce Williams approached (an AP) and handed me a camera saying, "Freedman, here's your camera." I smiled as she shoved it in my hand and as I handed it back to her, I said, "no thanks, I don't do cameras." She forced it back into my palm saying, "you do now, your the Journalism teacher." I thought that was so cute as I gave it back one more time.
Her come back that round, "dammit, Freedman, take the camera and have fun." Well, I knew that was suddenly my camera! For some reason I began to take some decent candids around the building. Teachers would comment on those 'sharp, neat pictures' and I would say, they are just snapshots.
One day, a teacher brought one of her home shots to share. She had shot her two little girls and in the pic you saw these two little heads in the bottom right corner and an entire wall in the remaining print. That was a snapshot, what I was doing was kinda looking like photography.
And so it was to be. Suddenly, I had teachers asking if I'd do photos of their family. Well, far be it for me to refuse anyone's wishes. I did. I did more. I did a lot more. And, within 6 months I had people calling for my work.
I invested in all of my own equipment and went to town. The Journalism position threw me into a Freelance Photography business for the next 9 years and it blossomed like a Cherry Tree.
I had to decide in October, 1992 whether I would begin teaching a half day and doing photography business the other half day....or....would I apply for the Instructional Coordinator's position that had been posted. It was hard to decide. I had reached a point where I grossed about $20,000 a year off my cameras. But, I applied and was hired. I finished my last nine years as a coordinator and had a great time!
My cameras had allowed me to be published on a magazine cover, inside a kid's magazine (an athlete), a young lady published an album in Kingwood with my cover shot on it, and much more. It was a super experience and lots of fun!
As I thought about that experience today, it correlates somewhat to where I am today. However, Dr. Rogers said, I'm referring you for Lap Band and I didn't even blink twice! If I perform for this as well as I did with the cameras, it will all be fine.
When someone confronts you with a challenge of any kind, think before you take two steps back. If we all balk at new adventures, how boring would our lives be? I'm the first to admit, sometimes you must reach deep within and grab something called courage and inner strength!
Once you've found that, go for it! And, do it with a smile!
My career began there. Outside on a huge playground with one million physical education students grade 3-6! The bright spot in each day was 'Watkins', the boy's PE teacher. He was a hoot and I was hooter. We ran that playground and school like clock work! What he didn't know, I did. And, that was in the days of paddlin'. So, I shared my paper thin paddle that a fellow teacher made for me.
She painted it light blue, put really pretty butterfly decals all over it and tied a ribbon around it as a gift! Welcome to the world of Principal Gene Franklin, the man who believed in paddlin'!!!
Now, understand, the thin banger board didn't bruise anything...but it stung like the dickens. I had to learn how to administer 'licks' to kids with the tiniest hinies in the entire world! Oh, you say, how mean was that? Get over it! We didn't do it for fun, and for some odd reason back then, their brains were located in that very mysterious spot!
I learned so much that first year with Watkins as my mentor. But the funniest thing I learned was how to duck out of the book room when over taken by laughter as I witnessed him giving pops.
He took Kenneth in one afternoon after his third warning. Kenneth, the third grader leaned over, grabbed his ankles and that anchored his nose about 2" off the floor. I was standing behind and there it went. Strike one. Right on the tiny hiney! And, there went the largest of the butterfly decals...floating on air, just as if it was real.
It floated carefully to the floor, swooping under Kenneth's nose and gently landing perfectly right before his big, brown eyes. That kid's eyes flew open, his mouth gaped and he drew a big breath! But, he was frozen in place and dared not say a word, he was already in big trouble! He thought the real deal had flown in the book room. I was overtaken by the whole scene and barely managed to excuse myself.
Lucky Kenneth, got him out of a boatload of trouble. Watkins lost control and as he began to laugh, told Kenneth to go to class! Ya had to be there to really appreciate it all.
In August, 1981, I accepted a position in Humble ISD. I told Ed Denney, the principal, I really didn't care to coach any longer. However, one of his women coaches had to return to Victoria to live with parents and take care of them. So, I coached three years there. When it was no longer 'fun' for me, I told him, "it's time to get me out of the coaching scene. The girls are worried about sweating in practice because the boys might be at the mall when they got there!" GIVE ME A BREAK!
Thus, he said, "ok, Freedman, I need a Journalism teacher and that's your minor. You'll continue as Health Department Chair and teach Journalism, sponsor Yearbook and Newspaper." That was okay with me...ready to go.
School began and I had my classes assigned. As I stood outside my room one day, Joyce Williams approached (an AP) and handed me a camera saying, "Freedman, here's your camera." I smiled as she shoved it in my hand and as I handed it back to her, I said, "no thanks, I don't do cameras." She forced it back into my palm saying, "you do now, your the Journalism teacher." I thought that was so cute as I gave it back one more time.
Her come back that round, "dammit, Freedman, take the camera and have fun." Well, I knew that was suddenly my camera! For some reason I began to take some decent candids around the building. Teachers would comment on those 'sharp, neat pictures' and I would say, they are just snapshots.
One day, a teacher brought one of her home shots to share. She had shot her two little girls and in the pic you saw these two little heads in the bottom right corner and an entire wall in the remaining print. That was a snapshot, what I was doing was kinda looking like photography.
And so it was to be. Suddenly, I had teachers asking if I'd do photos of their family. Well, far be it for me to refuse anyone's wishes. I did. I did more. I did a lot more. And, within 6 months I had people calling for my work.
I invested in all of my own equipment and went to town. The Journalism position threw me into a Freelance Photography business for the next 9 years and it blossomed like a Cherry Tree.
I had to decide in October, 1992 whether I would begin teaching a half day and doing photography business the other half day....or....would I apply for the Instructional Coordinator's position that had been posted. It was hard to decide. I had reached a point where I grossed about $20,000 a year off my cameras. But, I applied and was hired. I finished my last nine years as a coordinator and had a great time!
My cameras had allowed me to be published on a magazine cover, inside a kid's magazine (an athlete), a young lady published an album in Kingwood with my cover shot on it, and much more. It was a super experience and lots of fun!
As I thought about that experience today, it correlates somewhat to where I am today. However, Dr. Rogers said, I'm referring you for Lap Band and I didn't even blink twice! If I perform for this as well as I did with the cameras, it will all be fine.
When someone confronts you with a challenge of any kind, think before you take two steps back. If we all balk at new adventures, how boring would our lives be? I'm the first to admit, sometimes you must reach deep within and grab something called courage and inner strength!
Once you've found that, go for it! And, do it with a smile!
Home was where the Heart Lived
There was a time we lived up the tiny road in the big, old farm house. It was huge with great rooms, high ceilings and a front porch all the way across. As you entered the front door, you climbed about 10 cement steps to pull the screen door back and step onto the wooden floor of the porch.
In another 8-10 steps, you had entered the hallway where a choice had to be made. To the right, the huge living room area. 10' ceiling, big, open room with a couple of windows on the sidewall. Once in that room, you could turn left and enter the tiny kitchen or turn right and enter another, very large, bedroom area.
If your choice was to take a left in the hallway entry and enter the extra large bedroom there, you walked into a room facing two very large old country windows. Living on the farm, away from the world, allowed you on the hot summer nights to lie in bed beside the open window and listen to the sounds of the night.
A symphony coursed through the still night to the sounds of crickets, bullfrogs and other creature noises. It was all illuminated with the flight of lightening bugs, twinkling stars and sometimes, a beautiful, full moon. You could lay and stare out the screened window and dream the dreams of your life. Finally, with a cool night breeze wafting over your skin, you'd fall into deep slumber and colorful dreams til daybreak.
From that front bedroom, you could walk through another door into a smaller bedroom. It had one window in it, a door that led to the screened back porch and a second door leading into a last, back bedroom. That bedroom was interesting because the walls were those tiny, slat looking boards. They ran from floor to ceiling and for a little girl, it caused a great curiosity because it looked and felt different from all the others.
As you left the back bedroom and stepped onto the big porch, you were standing next to the small bathroom on your left. Not too large, yet large enough. Big bath tub, sink and potty...and, a window above the tub.
As you left the potty room, you could step out and touch a rock 'well' that sat on the back porch. I can't recall that it really worked, but you really had to leave it alone!!
Walking the back porch, you would ultimately turn to the left and head to the other kitchen entrance. Just outside the kitchen was the old screen door and few more steps to launch you into play wonderland!
I guess the worst thing I ever did as a little girl was with my bow and arrow. Yes, I had a Daisy Rifle BB gun at an early age and next came a bow and arrow. Guess my daddy thought I could handle anything! Fact is, I was always 'just lucky' with everything. I shot that arrow straight up into the sky one Sunday afternoon. A cousin was standing across the yard. As I watched the arrow soar into the blue and make it's turn for the return to dirt, I brought my eyes level across the yard and suddenly, my laughter became panic.
That arrow missed that cousin's head by maybe two big feet! WHAP! It stuck solid in the hard dirt. Suddenly, the 'jig was up'...everybody in the yard looked around and I was just about 'run outta town' for that one! Needless to say, I learned...bow and arrow not good in crowds!!
Now, the big old house saw many good times. Croquet; Red Rover, Red Rover; chase around the house; throwing the ball all the way over to the other partner and many more games. We didn't stay glued to television, we played and we played hard!
As an infant, I battled asthma (so I was told by my mother)and many times it nearly won. Story went, the asthma would come on and somehow, more often than not, go into pneumonia. There we'd go again...to the hospital and I was told I spent many days sitting in the middle of the hospital bed under the old, huge oxygen tents.
The Nuns would come by everyday to smile and scare the bejeebers out of me. They wore the 'habits' and looked alien to me. Nope, they never touched me, not even close. They could stand in the doorway and wave and then, they had to git or I busted loose in tears and screams.
With the asthma, came the tonsils. They were a worst nightmare as a little girl. In the first grade and second grade, tonsilitis came to visit too often. Finally, one of the doctors said, "Mrs. Freedman, the tonsils need to come out. We'll put her on special meds prior to the surgery so she won't bleed profusely." And, they did.
The capsule was about a foot long, as big around as a hot dog and I was expected to slam that thing down my throat each morning? Mother would hand me the pill and a small glass of orange juice. She'd turn and walk into the kitchen while I stuffed the pill down the side of the green recliner and drank the juice.
Following the surgery, my parents were yelled at big time by the doctor. I had bled like a crazy person and gave them a run for their money. Didn't seem to be anyone's fault, it was just a thing.
Huh! No one's fault until the end of the following week when mother was vacuuming the living room. Suddenly, she moved the green recliner and a couple of red pills rolled onto the floor. Danger, danger! She tipped the chair and the entire prescription rolled out.
You want to talk about trouble? It was boiling, right on the top of my blonde head! I cried really gigantic tears that morning and escaped with my life! I was a kid..what did I know about the importance of pills?
I lived, the tonsils got yanked and there ya go. I do remember laying in the hospital bed after surgery and for a time, was not allowed anything but chips of ice. I'd ask for daddy to come in and see me. I just knew if I could get him to look into my little girl blue eyes, he'd get me some ice cream RIGHT THEN!! Wrong! I couldn't even make him cheat for me!
Many life issues came and went over the years. But wrapped in all the days of life in the country are so many strong, terrific memories.
We were carefree, we ran with the wind blowing through our hair, we had acres and acres to roam and create games...we didn't fret over life's small issues. Our family was strong, parents loved us and provided for us and allowed us to grow and discover life one day at a time.
When you stop and remember 'back when' ... I hope you have a vast kaleidascope turning in your mind. It should be of many hues, shapes, sizes and values. Never struggle over the challenges, celebrate the experience and stand firm on the foundation you built.
There are no second chances at life. It's a one shot deal, make the most of it. If you want to be outstanding these days, throw in a Random Act of Kindness with every opportunity and watch the expression on one's face! Share the wealth...give someone a smile!
In another 8-10 steps, you had entered the hallway where a choice had to be made. To the right, the huge living room area. 10' ceiling, big, open room with a couple of windows on the sidewall. Once in that room, you could turn left and enter the tiny kitchen or turn right and enter another, very large, bedroom area.
If your choice was to take a left in the hallway entry and enter the extra large bedroom there, you walked into a room facing two very large old country windows. Living on the farm, away from the world, allowed you on the hot summer nights to lie in bed beside the open window and listen to the sounds of the night.
A symphony coursed through the still night to the sounds of crickets, bullfrogs and other creature noises. It was all illuminated with the flight of lightening bugs, twinkling stars and sometimes, a beautiful, full moon. You could lay and stare out the screened window and dream the dreams of your life. Finally, with a cool night breeze wafting over your skin, you'd fall into deep slumber and colorful dreams til daybreak.
From that front bedroom, you could walk through another door into a smaller bedroom. It had one window in it, a door that led to the screened back porch and a second door leading into a last, back bedroom. That bedroom was interesting because the walls were those tiny, slat looking boards. They ran from floor to ceiling and for a little girl, it caused a great curiosity because it looked and felt different from all the others.
As you left the back bedroom and stepped onto the big porch, you were standing next to the small bathroom on your left. Not too large, yet large enough. Big bath tub, sink and potty...and, a window above the tub.
As you left the potty room, you could step out and touch a rock 'well' that sat on the back porch. I can't recall that it really worked, but you really had to leave it alone!!
Walking the back porch, you would ultimately turn to the left and head to the other kitchen entrance. Just outside the kitchen was the old screen door and few more steps to launch you into play wonderland!
I guess the worst thing I ever did as a little girl was with my bow and arrow. Yes, I had a Daisy Rifle BB gun at an early age and next came a bow and arrow. Guess my daddy thought I could handle anything! Fact is, I was always 'just lucky' with everything. I shot that arrow straight up into the sky one Sunday afternoon. A cousin was standing across the yard. As I watched the arrow soar into the blue and make it's turn for the return to dirt, I brought my eyes level across the yard and suddenly, my laughter became panic.
That arrow missed that cousin's head by maybe two big feet! WHAP! It stuck solid in the hard dirt. Suddenly, the 'jig was up'...everybody in the yard looked around and I was just about 'run outta town' for that one! Needless to say, I learned...bow and arrow not good in crowds!!
Now, the big old house saw many good times. Croquet; Red Rover, Red Rover; chase around the house; throwing the ball all the way over to the other partner and many more games. We didn't stay glued to television, we played and we played hard!
As an infant, I battled asthma (so I was told by my mother)and many times it nearly won. Story went, the asthma would come on and somehow, more often than not, go into pneumonia. There we'd go again...to the hospital and I was told I spent many days sitting in the middle of the hospital bed under the old, huge oxygen tents.
The Nuns would come by everyday to smile and scare the bejeebers out of me. They wore the 'habits' and looked alien to me. Nope, they never touched me, not even close. They could stand in the doorway and wave and then, they had to git or I busted loose in tears and screams.
With the asthma, came the tonsils. They were a worst nightmare as a little girl. In the first grade and second grade, tonsilitis came to visit too often. Finally, one of the doctors said, "Mrs. Freedman, the tonsils need to come out. We'll put her on special meds prior to the surgery so she won't bleed profusely." And, they did.
The capsule was about a foot long, as big around as a hot dog and I was expected to slam that thing down my throat each morning? Mother would hand me the pill and a small glass of orange juice. She'd turn and walk into the kitchen while I stuffed the pill down the side of the green recliner and drank the juice.
Following the surgery, my parents were yelled at big time by the doctor. I had bled like a crazy person and gave them a run for their money. Didn't seem to be anyone's fault, it was just a thing.
Huh! No one's fault until the end of the following week when mother was vacuuming the living room. Suddenly, she moved the green recliner and a couple of red pills rolled onto the floor. Danger, danger! She tipped the chair and the entire prescription rolled out.
You want to talk about trouble? It was boiling, right on the top of my blonde head! I cried really gigantic tears that morning and escaped with my life! I was a kid..what did I know about the importance of pills?
I lived, the tonsils got yanked and there ya go. I do remember laying in the hospital bed after surgery and for a time, was not allowed anything but chips of ice. I'd ask for daddy to come in and see me. I just knew if I could get him to look into my little girl blue eyes, he'd get me some ice cream RIGHT THEN!! Wrong! I couldn't even make him cheat for me!
Many life issues came and went over the years. But wrapped in all the days of life in the country are so many strong, terrific memories.
We were carefree, we ran with the wind blowing through our hair, we had acres and acres to roam and create games...we didn't fret over life's small issues. Our family was strong, parents loved us and provided for us and allowed us to grow and discover life one day at a time.
When you stop and remember 'back when' ... I hope you have a vast kaleidascope turning in your mind. It should be of many hues, shapes, sizes and values. Never struggle over the challenges, celebrate the experience and stand firm on the foundation you built.
There are no second chances at life. It's a one shot deal, make the most of it. If you want to be outstanding these days, throw in a Random Act of Kindness with every opportunity and watch the expression on one's face! Share the wealth...give someone a smile!
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