Porch sitting again!

The following will appear in my local paper . Enjoy a double pleasure of a twice read.

Porch sitting.  I could stop with those two words.  Y’all all know what I mean.  It’s what we do down here—you also know what those words mean—“The South”.  It doesn’t matter how big or small your porch is, it doesn’t matter if it’s on the back, front, side or falling off the house.  It doesn’t matter if it has chairs, couches, boxes, blocks…We are going to sit there the first chance we get when the weather permits.  We might have to put on a coat, sweater or our toboggan but by golly we are gonna sit on that porch.  It is restful whether we are looking at the Hooch, the traffic, the neighbor’s house, the street, the kids playing, or the back of our eyelids.   It doesn’t matter if we’re sipping tea, coke, Chattahoochee Branch—that’s water—just ask Bill Gilbert, or nothing at all.  The porch is where you gotta get to after a winter like we’ve had. 

Just ask all those folks in Atlanta and Birmingham what they needed after 10 hours in their cars on the interstate.  They needed a porch!  Of course, they also needed weather like we had yesterday too. 

Think back—great porches—the first one that comes to mind is my Grandmother Starnes—now she had a great porch.  It was huge or so it seemed as a kid.  It had wide concrete banisters that were loaded with huge pots full of begonias, and ferns.  The furniture didn’t have cushions but it was large, wooden and comfortable—a glider and a huge chair where my Grandmother always sat—weather permitting.  Actually she only sat when she wasn’t tending her flowers.  After she finished showing you all the flowers then she sat.  Her chair was a glider too.  Who got those pieces of furniture??  I bet they are still giving folks some rest. 

Another memorable porch was the one on my house in Ensley.  It was more like a sun porch that could only be reached from inside the house.  My rocking horse was there, Bullet.  Bullet is now in my basement.  Bullet and I had lots of adventures on that porch.  I have a scar on my head to prove it.  Bricks and a kid’s head.  I’m sure you have your own porch scars.  We’ll start a story swap. 

Our Talladega porch was small, screened, and on the back of the house.  My knees ache when I think about the day I fell through the screen while trying to adjust to my new bifocal contacts.  My family came home and thought a burglary had occurred. Why didn’t they just open the screen door?  It didn’t have a lock.  Took a while to live that one down.

My Hooch porch has comfy chairs, an eating table, and rockers.  It also has a fabulous view.  Yesterday the geese took their daily trip back to the pond from the West Point Lake.  They are so loud that they make you look up even if you know by now what all that racket is about.  Birds are everywhere now too.  They sound like creatures three times their size pulling out twigs, leaves, and other comfy liners for their nests.  Double N, our community cat, is intrigued by all the chatter and digging. 

Look for a porch—quick—it’s gonna get cold again next week.  But don’t be sad if you are slow to make porch friends because spring really is coming that’s a promise… here in “The South”.

 

 

 

Sunset with Dex

Spent a lot of time with Dex today.  Sun is making such a glare on the screen as it sets across the river that I can barely see to type.  Probably a message in that.  Computers and Dex don't go together. 

Picked daffodils today and they're on my table where I plan to eat supper in a few with Mommy Ann.

  It's so warm that the ceiling fans are swiftly turning overhead.  Love it.  The Hooch is heading to Columbus.  It's lost its muddy hew of last week.  Birds are everywhere--flying, digging, singing, dunking--so cute in my big iron pot--reminds me of those dunking birds that we had as kids that would dip their beaks in a glass of water--over and over again.  I loved mine.  Easily entertained before computers. 

Double N is relaxing in a chair trying to appear inattentive to all the bird goings-on. He hasn't brought me a present in awhile--I'm not sad.  

Fast visit with the Hedgies.  Wonderful, wonderful soon soon.  Hedgie Girl just told me about Control Z so I'd quit crying about my lost blog. Good to know.  Never had a computer class so some things still aren't in my repertoire. 

Ahhh--sunset on the Hooch.  Wish you were here.  Lovely night.

Blue sky kind of day. Wonderful

Willie is singing "blue sky..nothing but blue sky..."  Actually it's birds chirping loudly, but in my mind they sound like Willie.

Headed out to seize the day and hopefully have a full day of clients.  Working part-time has a whole new meaning with all the bad weather we've had lately. 

Less than a month for Wahoo and Wise to come into my arms.  Have to stay out of stores with baby clothes. Too cute to resist. 

Peace to all.  May you feel joy today...look for it.  Daffodils emerging...birds singing, smiling faces, dogs that want to snuggle, whiskery kisses from two legged love.

The Turkey Hunter shares his day with God

I'm sleeping like a baby these days...up in the night again.  Went to bed at 7:30 for a nap--up at midnight and still up. 

Fabulous joyful, sad, lovely day with Ms. M and the ole Turkey Hunter's ashes.  A crowd of folks gathered at Jackson Gap or thereabouts to plant a tree, sing, eat, swap stories, and hear Duke Boy commit some of Mr. Larry's ashes to the ground with a white oak.  Larry legend has it that turkey's like to eat the acorns of the white oak.  And legend according to Buster, whose land we were on also has it that the ole Turkey Hunter shot his last turkey from a small thicket to the left of where we planted his tree. 

Larry aka ole Turkey Hunter was having a time with God telling him who all those ( God's creations :) ) were---God loves his leadership skills--God DID NOT--interrupt him.

" Grady my littlest grandson, is the one throwing the rocks"

--sometimes two at a time at the bumper of all the trucks that carried all these folks to this tree planting

---some inquired if we were still in Alabama--it was quite a ride. I almost rode on the back of pickup--so glad I didn't since I'm Methodist and we don't re-baptize. There were some ruts---we call those swimming holes when they aren't in the road. 

Back to Larry telling the Lord about His creations:

"Lucy, the arm baby, actually the one who is trying desperately to get out of all the arms that want to hold her, is the one with the huge eyes.  Those eyes could swallow you.  There are nearly as big as some of those rebaptism holes.  Her Momma, is Joy, the one with the cute boots that little Lucy is trying to unzip the zippers on while her Momma is trying to listen to the words that Duke Boy is saying about me." 

"Joy is also Momma to Joe--he is the one with the blonde hair who is running back and forth between his Momma and his Daddy.   His Daddy, Chris is the one now holding two girls, Angel and Lucy.  Angel is the newest addition to our family.  She is hugging Lucy and telling her she doesn't have to cry."

"Adelyn is the pretty brown- haired one in the fur- topped boots.  She's a sister to Grady.  Their Daddy's my boy, Adam.  He's the one with the tears in his eyes.  Hope he can feel my arm around his shoulders. "

"Just look at that Margaret.  She is prettier than the day we married.  She never ceases to amaze me at her ability to carry on.  I like it that they put me in the pitcher.  Kinda classes me up don't you think?"

"Motorcycle friends--who saved my life--turkey hunting buddies--thanks Buster---for shoveling out that hole---you could have left my chair in front of the stove--people would have had to have walked around it--it would have improved your story--Wednesday night supper friends, neighbors, story hearers, babysitters of my kids, story swappers, Bama fans, fans of the other team, family.  What a  day.  Look at this blue sky and feel that sunshine...thanks for taking the wind down, God.  Made them stay a little longer and visit."

"Duke Boy did a good job.  I taught him some good story telling skills.  He was my Associate at Lanett.  He's about to be Paw to those twin boys.  He'll be a good one.  More Bama and Duke fans ."

"Let's get all these folks home safe.  You know they came from Georgia and all over Alabama. I had quite a life down there.  Thanks for all that, God.  I'm gonna go check with The Bear and see if they ever planted a tree for him anywhere? "

Thanks for a lovely day with the ole Turkey Hunter's friends and family.  I regret not taking my tambourine.  Ms. M and I could have sang a duet and I could have gotten her to dance a little--she can't sing and dance at the same time though--a little sad but true.  Work on that.  Glad to have met all the blog readers from Huntsville. Keep those hugs going to Ms. M and her fam.  Peace.

 

 The ole Turkey Hunter is happy to know that this blog got 243 views when I wrote about his funeral. Highest ever read.   Knock it out of the park this time.  Sorry couldn't resist a sports analogy.

Cats, cold and cuteness

Double N was insistent the I open the spa for him/her?? He came running to me from across the street twice when I was out ---just dashing out with the garbage once, and next... cupcakes for Rock Man.  He was loud, meowing and wet. Double N--not Rock Man.

Guilt from a big ole cat is powerful. It would be a whole lot easier to just let him in.  He could then come in and take over the couch, the kitchen counters, the stairs, the bed, ..

Dreaming of a winter spa

.SHAZAM--get the light--open the spa.

 New spa location, under the porch--think it's warmer there.  He did his cat thing of aloofness about the light, big towel, and box .  Just checked and he's curled up sleeping. 

My scripture this morning from Mark about Jesus feeding the 5000--hospitality. Gotta do it. He didn't take all 5000 home but he did feed them. 

The Russians skated to "Jesus Christ Superstar" last night.  It was beautiful.  Think they took Gold.

Randomness--awake in the night thinking of babies.  Glad they are safe and warm.  I know they are getting excited to meet me.  Sorted their little tiny clothes into drawers with Hedgie Girl and Sartsy. Lots of oohes and ahhs at the cuteness. Keep praying for safe arrivals.

Had to share this great picture of the Volunteer Firefighters in North Alabama.  They are getting the job done.  Thanks guys!. 

Flowerbeds and Turkey Hunters--Heavenly

Little BW trying to climb into the heat vent this morning.  Looks like February outside--ok so it's the 11th and it should.  Rush, rush,--springtime--spoiled by a brief Sunday porch lunch.  Ok..we had on sweaters and quickly moved to the sunny side of the porch after lunch.  It was deceptively beautiful outside.

Waiting for spring is like waiting for anything that we will hope will bring us joy to happen.  We are waiting.  I moved pots off my flowerbeds so the tulips could pop up.  It's happening.  They can't resist trying to find the sun this time of year.  I get it.

One can never consent to creep when one feels an impulse to soar.
                                                     Helen Keller

Looking forward to being with this sweet family on Saturday as we plant a tree for this ole Turkey Hunter .  He is working on a story for God about his best hunt.
 Hope Ms. M will bring some more feathers.
 Mine went to the other Ms. M's grands.
  I need two... for my future grands. 

Peace for the day from the Hooch.

Friday happy thoughts.

Friday again! Wahoo and Wise are a day closer to adding to the Wonderfulness of my life--and the rest of the people I love.  Double Sughar is having a few moments of her own sweetness! My suggest that both of them have middle names of Wonderful hasn't been seriously consider--yet!

Babies are everywhere.  Such fun to watch them and smile.  Looking forward to TWO to cuddle with.

Have a fun Friday. 

Wonderful, Wonderful, Wahoo and Wise

My cold is finally giving in to all the banana popsicles. Actually I only ate two--might have been the homemade chicken and rice soup.  All I know is since last Wednesday it's been rough.  I missed church yesterday because I felt so crummy.

Missed Duke Boy's announcement of my becoming a Double Sughar---twins--coming to the arms of the EBs sooon.  Boys--I don't know nothin about boys.  Of course, I've lived with Duke Boy for 32 years.  Does that count?  I also kissed a lot of frogs and some other close to being princes along the way before Duke Boy and I said, "I do".

You've gotten by now that these will be my grands--actually living with the Hedgies.  Makes my heart nearly bust to see them so happy.  Praying for our birth mom and her family.  It takes great love to provide new opportunities for your children. 

Jeremiah 29:11  I know the plans I have for you... to give you a future and a hope.

 This scripture keeps playing in my head this morning.  It was in a card box of mine earlier this morning.  Duke Boy and I read this scripture in our wedding. Our family is there again.

Wonderful, Wonderful.  I've suggested those words as middle names for the boys.  It was all I could say after they told us about their conversation with the birth mom. 

We are all praying for wisdom and guidance .  I could be holding babies by leap day.  Wahoo and Wise.  those are my names for them in my journal. 

I did get to take a great nap with Dex yesterday.
   Gizillions of birds flocking in the trees, breezy.  So nice.

Sycamore Row--by John Grisham.  Just finished.  He's such a great storyteller. 

Oh, in other news ...submitted an article to the Erma Bombeck's writers contest.  Really wanted go to the workshop in April but of course it's sold out--unless you win a place through the contest.....

Slip sliding away

Not spending the day with Dex.  It's in the high 20s here with only freezing rain.  No snow.  Sad.  I'd rather have some snow than all the ice.  Grateful I'm here inside--warm--Duke Boy just brought me real stove top hot cocoa! Yum--with whipped cream.  Easing my pain of no snow.

The bridge over the Hooch has a couple of closed lanes.  Reportedly.  Haven't seen it myself.  I trust my source.  Be careful .
Don't go slip sliding away--sometimes--the nearer your destination--the more you're slip sliding away...Maybe I'll put some music to that....

Queen Elizabeth is probably dreaming of the beach today. Know I am.

Vote for me, Erma fans

Done. I'm officially entered in the Erma Bombeck Writing Competition Contest.  Who knew it would be so hard to limit it to 450 words.  I remember when I first sent an article to our local paper and the editor said. " I need 500 words."  No...that's a lot! Now I don't seem to be able to put the lid back on the box. My entry # was 1500+.  I would like you all to enter your prayer closets because this is surely more important than world peace. 

If I win then I could go to the Erma Bombeck Worshop in Dayton, Ohio in April.  I could also win $500 --to cover the cost of a one way ticket, maybe?  Maybe someone will loan me snow boots.

Thanks to Ron King, my PI boss, who encouraged me to write about 12 years ago.  It has truly expanded my horizons.  I am a celebrity at the Wal-Mart in the Valley.  "Aren't you the lady who writes for the paper?  You are so funny!"  Hope the EB people in Dayton think so. 

I'm having a Zippidy Do Da kind of day.  Hope you are too.

Snow this week---really?  This is January...time to get out the shorts.

Smoldering here

Woke up smoldering.  Thought the field mice had started a fire under the house to keep warm.  Confession had bug man put out bait box--BW safe--because a mouse ran through the kitchen.  Too cold to be outside and the cat spa makes outside even more risky.  Worse thing than freezing to death--being a cat toy for the day. 

Cold, cold, and more cold expected.  I'm gonna have to shut my eyes when the power bill comes. 

Great visits with my Columbus PI friends yesterday.  Good report on Precious Turner .  So glad she is improving. Love is the answer, Mr. Bill.

Bluffton Antiques will have some new wares in booth 19 soon.  Maybe this weekend.  Too cold to open my garage doors and shop.  Must bundle up and get it done. 

Gonna try sleeping again.  Perhaps my pillow will have a cold side now.

Dex and Downton

Dex is so deceiving.  He looks so inviting but he is so cold.  and breezy.  Even sitting in the sunshine doesn't make me warm to him.  Sitting on the sofa to blog.  Not as fun...but warmer.  Still get a snapshot of the beautiful view and my fingers are still nimble enough to type.  Not chilled.

Sofa still warm from the Hedgies catching up on their Downton fix. I was catching up on my napping from my night of insomnia.

I am longing for spring. 

Peaceful afternoon to all from the Hooch.

Cat spas and personal shoppers. Let's go to Paris.

Cat spa open tonight and Double N is using the tanning bed.  He had a fit to get in on the porch on Friday until I opened the spa again.  Some folks just have to get ready for summer. His fur does look pretty under the light.  He checked in last night for his treatment while Duke Boy was beating me at Canasta.

Insomnia relieve right now.  Eyes just popped open.  Must be eventful in Paris ?

Trying to do a little winter whittling of things not wood. Be sure to go by Bluffton or the Goodwill to see what left my home.  Valentine's Day is just around the corner....Fluffed my booth a little and put everything red or heart-y on display together.  I know some of us  have to see someone else's idea in order for it to hit us right between the eyes.

 Back in the day a girl could go to Casual Corner and get the sales lady to help dress you--as in bring you an outfit that went together.  Where are those folks?  I need a free personal shopper at an AFFORDABLE business. Remember when you went in a dressing room and the sales lady took your clothes to the room, Knew your name, and then asked you what else she could get for you??? I know Coldwater Creek still does that but too $$$ for me.  Ok, enough of retail rant. 

Good news..ranting has proven to be relaxing--headed for bed again. Au revior.

Be a Visionary

"Sometimes the more you look at something the less you can see of it."
                                                                 Karen Erwin-Brown

The above is taken out of context.  Sounded better when I was sharing.  Profound enough to share again.

Helen Keller had a good one about looking...this one comes from a woman without sight...

"When one door of happiness closes another opens; but often we look so long at the closed door that we do not see the one which has been opened for us."

This one hangs on my dining room wall above the Helen Keller letter that she wrote to my Dad after visiting him in the hospital at Northington in Tuscaloosa in June of 1945.

Yesterday was the anniversary of my Dad's death--12 years.  Miss you, Dad.

Keep those eyes open today for the love out there...sometimes the more you look at something the less you can see of it or him or her.

Peace from the Hooch today.

January smiles

This will also appear in the West Point/Valley Times News  this week.

January, mid-month, 40 degrees is the high today.  Did you see that moon last night?  Cruising the front garden ---brown, brown, brown, Green shoots, brown, and brown, browner. Hunting for life and something to smile about.  No yard work, unless you are Martha Stewart or her staff, no bugs.  January has allowed me to reorganize the house, and de-Santa-tize it.  Santa and Baby Jesus back in the tubs till next Advent.  Back to the treadmill, trying to smile, new book that I only let myself read while I’m on the treadmill.  It has not proven to be a page turner.  Porch still drying out after Saturday’s monsoon.  Too cold to be writing from there.

Smiling about wonderful lunch at Korean Bar-b-que House in West Point with Ms. Marilyn, who is an excellent chooser of a wonderful Korean lunch.  The staff is friendly and provides forks to those of us not skilled like Ms. M. in the use of chopsticks. Smiling about a morning spent as volunteer, they could use some more as well as food donations, at the Interfaith Food Closet.  Smiling about the sales in my booth at Bluffton Antiques—go in to get warm and ask for booth #19—mention this article for a 20% discount in addition to the great discount that I’m already offering.  Smiling about sorting out my taxes, and having Carolyn Lott as my CPA.  Smiling about worship at Shawmut UMC where Duke Boy makes me think about the Gospel and how to live it in this Valley.  Smiling about Ms. Ann treating me to inspiring piano music in that same service. Smiling about the work of the Pastoral Institute in this community and how I am able to be a part of it.

 Smiling about participating in the baptism of my great nephew—precious red-headed little fellow, at West Point 1^st UMC.  The event brought tears, as baptisms always do, while he was walked around the congregation as they sang a special lullaby with his name in it.  What a lovely tradition.  The family gets a framed copy of the song after the baptism.  Even the Baptist grands know this song because their Becca sings it to them too when they spend the night with her.

Smiling for the sunshine reflecting off the screen as I type this article.  Smiling because little BW quickly (chilly) visited the yard while I stood on the porch watching the eagle circle in the distance.  Forgot to mention the smile for the gorgeous blue sky framing the eagle. Smiling for the warmth of the heat while I write. Little BW is trying to climb into the vent after her outside adventure.

Smiling for the friendship of Double N, our community cat.  He/she said “hello” to me all the way across the yard yesterday while he came for his daily petting.  During all the extreme cold I made a Double N friendly warming light with a box and quilt.  He ignored my attempts to get him to snuggle there but later I observed him curled up asleep enjoying the spa treatment. Smiling.

Where are you finding smiles during this chilly winter?  Lots of opportunities… worship, volunteering, shopping, nature, and friends.  Take the time to notice.  Things aren’t as brown as they look.  After all the “Brown” as added a lot to my life and name.  Smile.

Karen Erwin-Brown is the therapist for the Valley office of the Pastoral Institute.  She provides individual, marriage and family counseling by appointment only. Call 334-768-2341 to make an appointment or for more information.  She also hobbies a booth at Bluffton Antiques where you can find treasures that brought past smiles. 

January, mid-month, 40 degrees is the high today.  Did you see that moon last night?  Cruising the front garden ---brown, brown, brown, Green shoots, brown, and brown, browner. Hunting for life and something to smile about.  No yard work, unless you are Martha Stewart or her staff, no bugs.  January has allowed me to reorganize the house, and de-Santa-tize it.  Santa and Baby Jesus back in the tubs till next Advent.  Back to the treadmill, trying to smile, new book that I only let myself read while I’m on the treadmill.  It has not proven to be a page turner.  Porch still drying out after Saturday’s monsoon.  Too cold to be writing from there.

Smiling about wonderful lunch at Korean Bar-b-que House in West Point with Ms. Marilyn, who is an excellent chooser of a wonderful Korean lunch.  The staff is friendly and provides forks to those of us not skilled like Ms. M. in the use of chopsticks. Smiling about a morning spent as volunteer, they could use some more as well as food donations, at the Interfaith Food closet.  Smiling about the sales in my booth at Bluffton Antiques—go in to get warm and ask for booth #19—mention this article for a 20% discount in addition to the great discount that I’m already offering.  Smiling about sorting out my taxes, and having Carolyn Lott as my CPA.  Smiling about worship at Shawmut UMC where Duke Boy makes me think about the Gospel and how to live it in this Valley.  Smiling about Ms. Ann treating me to inspiring piano music in that same service. Smiling about the work of the Pastoral Institute in this community and how I am able to be a part of it.

 Smiling about participating in the baptism of my great nephew—precious red-headed little fellow, at West Point 1^st UMC.  The event brought tears, as baptisms always do, while he was walked around the congregation as they sang a special lullaby with his name in it.  What a lovely tradition.  The family gets a framed copy of the song after the baptism.  Even the Baptist grands know this song because their Becca sings it to them too when they spend the night with her.

Smiling for the sunshine reflecting off the screen as I type this article.  Smiling because little BW quickly (chilly) visited the yard while I stood on the porch watching the eagle circle in the distance.  Forgot to mention the smile for the gorgeous blue sky framing the eagle. Smiling for the warmth of the heat while I write. Little BW is trying to climb into the vent after her outside adventure.

Smiling for the friendship of Double N, our community cat.  He/she said “hello” to me all the way across the yard yesterday while he came for his daily petting.  During all the extreme cold I made a Double N friendly warming light with a box and quilt.  He ignored my attempts to get him to snuggle there but later I observed him curled up asleep enjoying the spa treatment. Smiling.

Where are you finding smiles during this chilly winter?  Lots of opportunities… worship, volunteering, shopping, nature, and friends.  Take the time to notice.  Things aren’t as brown as they look.  After all the “Brown” as added a lot to my life and name.  Smile.

Karen Erwin-Brown is the therapist for the Valley office of the Pastoral Institute.  She provides individual, marriage and family counseling by appointment only. Call 334-768-2341 to make an appointment or for more information.  She also hobbies a booth at Bluffton Antiques where you can find treasures that brought past smiles. 

This little fellow is the happy face that was baptized on Sunday.

Cat ways

So grateful for a warm house. Made Double N a warm spot last night with a lamp, his quilt and a box.  Now there's a warm quilt possibly harboring a once cold possum.  Double N returned to his spot in the plastic storage area with the plants.  It's pretty protected so I'm hoping he's ok.  I got  the "crazy chick" look while I was preparing the Hilton on the Hooch.  Gotta remember as sweet as he is that he's a cat with a mind of a cat and they have cat ways of doing things that I'm not privy to.  He probably snuggled into his own spot with the same crazy chick with torturous light in his dreams...

10 degrees here on the Hooch.  Peace and warmth to you.

Feeling like that kid watching the TV to see if I'd have to go to school the next day.  TV isn't even on but I'm awake.  Can't sleep. Ticked because Downton Abbey didn't tape--rats.  Ok...so I'm hooked.  If you've ever watched it then know you are too so don't judge.

 Back to the weather...glad I live in the South.
 Have you seen some of those temps in the North and Mid-west.  Bless 'em.
 Well, the three ups for tonight are:
1) Bundle up

2) Snuggle up   

3) Turn the heat up.

 Dripping faucets are a good thing tonight.

Had a great New Year's Eve with the Hedgies in Birmingham at Little Savannah.  Good food and good service.  and a good thing it's in Birmingham. 


New Year's Resolutions...I'm gonna get right on those.  Today is the 5th?  Hmmm

The number one answer??? You know it...

1) LOSE WEIGHT. Duke Boy says he's losing 20 #s. And he will.  I love and hate him for his resolve in that area.  He didn't cook any dessert for Sunday lunch. The rest of the meal was AMAZING.  Faquitas--steak, chicken, sun dried tomatoes, mushrooms, onions, green peppers.  Homemade guacamole by Hedgie girl. 

2) Which is actually #1.  Get us a baby.  Complete an adoption.  They are approved.  Their book for the birth parents to look over is sooo sweet.  They are a creative pair.  Will be fabulous parents.

3) Figure out what I'm going to do with the part of the time that I'm not working.  Just went to part-time.  Very scary... but I can stay up and blog because I'm not working tomorrow.  Maybe I'll blog more.  I could exercise more so I could accomplish # 1.  If #2 happens fast then #3 will be taken care of.

All this resolve is making me sleepy.  Blogging is good.

  Peace and warm, snuggly thoughts from the Hooch.



 

Merry Christmas and Peace on Earth

A cold wintery, sunny Christmas Eve.  Duke Boy in the kitchen getting our Christmas Eve supper ready.  I have the table set--my job-- and I've made cherry, orange, nut butter.  UMM.  Now gotta type up our menus.  Part of the tradition.  The Hedgies will be here with Queen Elizabeth.  We'll go to church and then come home to a fabulous meal.

Christmas Eve Celebration With the Erwin-Browns   Menu 2013 Prepared by Chef Duke Boy

appetizer Snowflakes with Cranberry Pepper Jelly Creamiest cheese Roasted Pecans Soup Traditional Oyster Soup Salad Mixed Green Citrus Salad with Cranberry Vinaigrette Entree Spinach Stuffed Beef Tenderloin Mashed Potatoes with Mushroom Gravy Roasted Green Beans Cloverleaf Rolls Cherry, Orange Nut Butter a la the Hooch Dessert Red Velvet White Chocolate Cheesecake Coffee   It will be a delight!!! Wish you were here.

This photo from East Lake UMC in Birmingham.  This was our church from 1987 to 1993.

Peace to all of you this Christmas season.


 My nephew is safely home from Qatar. See the happy home photo.

Post from 12/22/13 that disappeared and is now back??

Dex and I are enjoying the breeze on the porch.  Air was still earlier --74 in the house.  We keep our heat on 70--yes, it was warm outside.  Stormy weather is coming.  Little BW has already burrowed in the blankie on the couch. 

Speaking of burrowing.   Double N has a blankie for his spot under the porch. Double N is in love.  Might be his first blankie--whoa--big whistle of wind just blew through Dex.  Double N just came by for her morning petting.  Trying to teach her not to pick my screens---aauuuggghhh!

Christmas is right down the street, no longer around the corner. Queen Elizabeth and I went to the mall.  Actually we were dropped off.  Duke Boy grocery shopped while the Q and

Sad now. Just wrote the best blog ever and it got dumped when I lost my connection.  Very sad.

Oh well...Shout out to Miss K.  Keep on reading anyway.

Hooping and hollering on the Hooch for a minute

The last day of November sure went out like a tiger...I thought it was March that did that??That's about all I'm gonna say about that part of my day.  Most of you probably know I'm not a very good fan anyhow...today though I watched almost the entire game.  I certainly didn't go anywhere in the second half.  Queen Elizabeth even watched most of the last quarter.  It was easy to explain to someone who knows even less than me about football. Duke Boy was sad but he was happy earlier in the day about his other team--previously only known for their basketball team.  Go Duke! 

Have a lovely Sunday.  Go to church and thank God for your win or thank him for your patience until next year. 

Peace from the Hooch.  Do some Christmas shopping at Bluffton Antiques in Lanett, AL. 

Winter on the Hooch

Winter is wintering around my porch.  Too cold to be out there writing even though it’s my new favorite spot.  Golden, brown, and red leaves still decorate my oaks and the ground beneath them. Our house philosophy is “we will remove no leaves before it’s time”.    “Time” means there are no golden, brown or red leaves on the branches.  “Time” means that Santa may have to wade through leaves to get to our house if he approaches from the river side and misses the rooftop.  “Time” means that our neighbor and lovely friend has generously agree to spend an afternoon blowing our leaves off the yard and down the hill.  “Time” means we might be about to host a party on the porch—Love those words.  Room to move around and spread out.  We even have a heater on that porch—so far we’ve only used it twice.  Winter has only teased us until recently. 

My porch has proven a cozy spot to write—not today—and a place for sumptuous meals, naps, and aerobic activity…what?  Hmm?? What’s the shift from those previous porch activities… enter Fred.  Actually Fred probably entered my porch a month or so ago when I brought my plants that summered in the backyard while my screened porch was in process.  Fred previously lived on my “not screened” porch when those plants lived on my tiny back porch—one could have referred to it as a “stoop” if it hadn’t had 18+ steps from the river garden. 

Fred has shared then new, previously referred to as screened, back porch with us for several weeks but had managed to stay hidden most days. Since he frequently showed himself on the stoop while I was watering, and since river life has accustomed me to all kinds of critters, I was not surprised that he too preferred my new back porch.  It doesn’t host cats or snakes or birds. Fred is a lizard.  A chameleon to be exact. He’s about as big as my hand—long that is.  And he can move quickly.  Fred had winked at me one day from the eave near the screen door.  Duke Boy was with me so we just winked back.  We knew that Fred would provide that extra protection that can’t always be provided by screens. 

Things were rocking along pretty well for Fred until the night temperatures dictated a need to move my plants—mainly begonias—indoors.  I only gave it a passing thought that Fred might be hitchhiking indoors from the cold too.  Fred’s cousin, or perhaps twin, had once posed as a lizard statue under a dishtowel on our kitchen counter during a summer of screened door openings.  I knew it could happen.

What happened instead was Fred showed out sunbathing as if at the Grand Isle Resort while Queen Elizabeth was also enjoying the pre-winter sunshine.  I saw him but had chosen to ignore his shameless “own the place” behavior.  What ensued was me, a broom, and  Queen E not wanting that thing in her bed.  It was better than any treadmill work I’ve ever done.  Fred should be in the Olympics. Fred and I ran up and down behind the settee and up and down the screen. I even opened the door and let in a wasp so Fred could run out.

  I am proud to report that Fred still suns on that porch since I’m a failure at lizard removal.  I named him so Queen E could envision him as a friend rather than a reptile.  I think that’s the category for lizards???  The Queen was unimpressed with my reptile removal skills and my naming.  She still wants the porch doors shut so he won’t visit her room.  Fred will have to snuggle under the porch blankie today.  I’ve made it a point to shake it out before using it on a chilly evening.

Peace to all of you this Thanksgiving weekend.  If you see Fred out he may be sporting a tiny hounds tooth scarf so he’ll fit in with the rest of the crowd on the porch.

 

Karen Erwin-Brown is the director of the Valley office of the Pastoral Institute.  She offers individual, marriage and family counseling by appointment only.  Call 334-768-2341 to make an appointment or more information.   

Seeing with 3 year old eyes

Chilly day on the Hooch.  Haven't visited Dex today. 

Yesterday during church had coffee, cinnamon rolls, lemonade, muffins, and fruit loops. 

... fruit loops were ok but my imagination was better when I was eating cinnamon rolls prepared by 3 year old hands.

  Nursery Sundays are always entertaining.
 Coloring,
 hearing Veggie Tales,
                  seeing excitement in the eyes when the blocks fit the holes,
 Queen Elizabeth enjoying her cinnamon roll.

 I'm sure "big " church was fun too and worship was certainly different.

  I'm thankful during this Thanksgiving week that God provided me a set of 3 year old eyes to see the world for an hour.

Time to get to Monday with 60 year old eyes and bones.  Peace for the day from the Hooch.

Thanksgiving and fire

Spent the morning with Dex even though he was cool to me.  Watching leaves fall was like watching a movie in fast forward.  Our river garden is at least ankle deep perhaps knee deep now in gold, reds and browns.  The great thing about leaves on the ground is that means the view of the Hooch is pretty fabulous.  Coffee, Dex and the river...

now I'm in front of my cozy fire.  Little BW is trying to push the laptop away so she can snuggle into me.  My fire is of course...electric..it has a blower for warmth...need one that crackles.  Do they make those...well duh, called "real fire".  I don't have to go into the cold for more logs, no sweeping up ash, no sparks on the rug...close to perfect. 

BW has given up on being my "laptop" and has burrowed into an afghan.  Queen Elizabeth is dreaming of Christmas cookies with Martha Stewart.  Just had mochas and cream cheese on ginger family cookies.  Yum.  It's beginning to look a lot like winter...

Top 10 Thanksgivings:
New room for Queen Elizabeth
Queen Elizabeth in her new room
Dex
New laundry room no longer in basement
Hedgies on the way to being parents and you know what that means>>>>!!!!!
BW all snuggley
Duke Boy happy as Bama wins its way through the season
Good folks to work with
Good folks to worship with
Good folks to call family
Friends who love me--wahoo --that's 11!!

Hope you will count your blessings instead of sheep tonight.

Peace from the Hooch.

Looking forward to Thanksgiving with this cute family of Bama fans!!

Kennedy remembered

Watching the Kennedy memories tonight.  Remembering being in Ms. Guthrie's room in 5th grade at Bush School in Birmingham when some boys ran down the hallway yelling that the President was shot. 

My family felt a kinship to the President because my Dad, a Medal of Honor recipient, had shaken hands with him in the Rose Garden in May of 1963.  My Mom didn't go because she was pregnant with my little sister, Bette.  Jackie Kennedy was pregnant too but unfortunately lost baby Patrick in August when he was born five weeks too early and his lungs were too little.

Sad day for our country then and now looking back.

Sorry that Lanett High School lost tonight to Fyffe?? spelling??  Safe travel to Hedgie Girl and all the fans traveling home tonight.

Peace from the Hooch tonight.

One duck dynasty afternoon

Dex finally warmed up again so I could sit with him.  Queen Elizabeth & I ate supper with him tonight.  Lovely evening to enjoy a great meal prepared by other main man, Duke Boy.  Here now with both of them watching Bama. 

Spent the afternoon napping here. The Dex couch is the best nap spot. 

Duke Boy had a birthday this week==thank God, now he is only 1 year younger than me again!!
Good thing we're both so cute since we look so much alike after all these years!

 Attempted to pick up pecans by the Hooch today. Not many there.  Took Queen Elizabeth on a joy ride down in the truck so she could help us hunt.  We picnicked a little after unproductive pecaning.  Lovely day to enjoy the Hooch though.  Disappointing to have so few birds today.  One duck. They must have all gone to Mississippi for The Game.  Gave the Queen a thrill trying to climb that hill in the truck.  Reminded her of riding with Major Charles in the golf cart after the Hedgie wedding.  It was her first trip down there in 5 years.  Who knows when I'll get her there again.

Next Saturday, we have the Winter Festival in downtown West Point.  It's gonna snow courtesy of KIA.  Come and bring friends.

Lots of good buys at Bluffton Antiques in Lanett.  Check out booth 19. 

The Pastoral Institute has Holiday Hope on Thursday the 21st.  You can still make a reservation if you call by Monday.  334-768-2341.  It's for those who've lost a loved one and are going through the holidays for the first time without them.  Duke Boy and our Naomi, widow group, are making a wonderful meal.  Free event.

It's good to have the Queen here.  She never fails to make me smile with some of her comments. She continues to be amazed that I know how to do laundry.  She has to be since I don't let anyone touch my washing machine. 

Medal of Honor remembered

Lovely tribute by the VFW and Valley Postmaster yesterday. My family was honored to be able to participate in the ceremony.  Weather was beautiful with a little nip in the air.  Tommy Weldon, the Valley police chief, played taps on his trumpet.  Impressive!  The last few military funerals that I've attended the honor guard has used  pre-fab bugle music.  It's lovely but not quite the same experience.  Taps always bring a tear-- the bugler at my Dad's funeral, soggy and wet under a tree. I'm not sure if his was canned or not--I do remember that it was sad.

 The Medal of Honor stamp is available today for purchase.  My Dad's name is in the inside if you purchase the book, Henry Erwin.  There are also 464 other names of the WWII recipients.  Just to be politically correct--never refer to a Medal of Honor recipient as a "winner" of the medal.  Most of them never strived for this honor since many of them are awarded posthumously. My Dad's medal was raced to his "death bed" by his buddies from a broken case in Hawaii.  I think it's the fastest a medal was ever approved.  He had it engraved himself.  My nephews, the Erwin Brothers, are planning to produce a movie about this story. 

Dex is chilly today.  He wishes we had a big ole blanket for  him to wrap himself in for the upcoming winteriness. 

Hedgies had their last adoption class last night.  On to the home study.....then...

Peaceful day from the Hooch.   

A tribute on Veterans Day --Henry Erwin--Medal of Honor recipient

Today I'm going to the Veterans' Day celebration in Valley to say a few words about my Dad.  Shawn Daily, the postmaster for the Valley office, who is also in the military, is doing the military bio.  I am to cover the civilian side.  Dad was a Medal of Honor recipient. 

 He was a good man, who took us to church every Sunday.  Sunday morning, he grabbed your toes through the cover to awaken you. Sundays we ate out so Mom didn't have to cook.  Britlings, the Frost Top--I can still taste the Lot-o-Burgers.   Family was important to spend time and we did--usually visiting both Grandmothers and siblings on one side or the other on Sunday afternoons. Sunday evenings were spent at home around the dinner table and then TV-- Bonanza or Ed Sullivan. He was always in bed by 9.  Snoring from that room sounded like a German Shepard dog guarded the bed.

Dad worked five days a week at the VA Hospital in Birmingham, AL. He left for work every morning by 5:30 but not before planting a Listerine-laden kiss on your sleeping cheek. To this day I don't have to use an eye lash curler.  You could also set your clock by his 5:30 return.  Dinner was on the table and we ate together.   Paper, TV, a little help with homework--he was good at Math--thank goodness--I was not.

Our yard was also neat and clean--girls didn't have to do yard work--thanks goodness--sorry Hank.
Girls washed dishes.  Mom did everything else.  The house was also always neat and clean. 

If Dad had a vice it was cigars and new cars.  He smoked cigars for years and then chewed them for years after that.  New cars were always a surprise. To my knowledge, he always picked them out alone.  I'm guessing he paid cash.  He didn't like debt.  He'd just come home with a new car about every two years.  He'd trade the old ones until we got old enough to drive.  My first car was a '64 Chevy, white with red interior. I inherited it when I was a sophomore at Alabama. Freshmen couldn't have cars then.

Dad made sure all his kids got an education.  Grammar school and up.  You respected your teachers.  The GI Bill helped with our college educations. Dad helped with the $20 to $50 in your pocket when you went back to school on Sunday evenings after a weekend visit.  When I didn't visit.  I'd get a short letter with a little cash about how I needed to call my Mom. When I say short, I mean short--less than a paragraph.  I loved those letters and the cash was nice too.  He and Mom never called before they visited me in college.  Back then those visits were not cherished like I would have had I know that I wouldn't have them anymore.

Precious memories of him were when Hedgie Girl was a baby.  We lived in Pell City and Leeds was about a 30 minute trip. Early in the morning after Duke Boy had left for church, I'd hear a knock.  No call first.  Dad would show up and hug me--then sit and hold Hedgie Girl.  He'd stay about an hour while I visited a little then did whatever Moms of newborns do--shower, have another cup of coffee, do laundry--then he'd give her back and say bye.  Makes tears to think about those times. 

He loved us.  We loved him.  I miss him.  I wish he was here to hold our soon to be family member who is out there somewhere waiting to join our family. 

A salute today to my Dad and to all those who helped give us the kind of freedom that I enjoyed as a child, and I continue to enjoy today.  Thanks Dad. 

Views from the Hooch

 

Ms. Potato Head stopped by Valley Family Dentistry for the Cabbage Patch Girls to correct her overbite.  Gotta love it when your dentist gives you Chocolate!!

These are not morning children.  Too funny.

My niece maker of beautiful pictures made this one.  

 

 

 

We love because (God) first loved us.  1 John 4:7-21



These words began my devotion from the Upper Room this morning. It can be accessed free on-line if you are interested.  It's written by people like me--perhaps this year I will attempt to be a writer for them. 

I am tickled to announce a new blog by the Hedgies--if I was really good at this stuff I'd link you to it--another goal for this year--it's time for them to be public about finding a baby for us to love on. 
They have done so in a big way with all kinds of wonderful pictures, stories, and peeks into their souls. Made me cry and swell with pride that I know them and they are a part of me. 
www.themulberrytreeinthesea.com
so the above is the link.  I know I'm amazing--

 

"How long the road is.

 But, for all the time the journey has already taken,

                                    how you have needed every second of it."

   

                                                                        Dag Hammarskjold

 



 

I'd love to stay with y'all all day.  I've got to visit Dex today.  He was cold this morning so I kept my distance.  My to do list is a mile long and Queen Elizabeth wants to go shopping.  I probably need a spiff up too.

 

Speaking on Monday, Veterans Day, at the Valley program at the memorial in Langdale.
 The Medal of Honor stamp for WWII is issued that day.  My Dad will be remembered.


 

 rockin the power of purple with Hedgie girl and the Queen

the hedgies



Treats for Halloween

Alone with Dex.  So peaceful.  Sun just coming up.  Just cool enough for my sweater and sox to be cozy.  He got a little attention from Queen Elizabeth and company yesterday.  They spiffed him up.
I'm a little jealous that he spends more time with them than he does with me.  Someone must help pay for his house. 

We are getting our Boo on with some help from these folks today.

Samson on parade.  Gramma trying to steal their chocolate

Samson's new Chief of Police

 the Princess has tamed the Dragon

Samson's new mayor

Trick or treat! Roll Tide

mystery man? Probably scratching the hair in his ear

Happy Halloween to all !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!Ha, ha, ha!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Porch views from the Hooch

This article will be in the West Point Valley Times News this week

We are enough. We all want to be skinnier, prettier, wealthier, more creative, more thoughtful, and more computer literate, the list goes on.  You know how to fill in those blanks. It’s Monday and most of us started working our list before our feet hit the floor. Research says that Monday mornings are the prime times for heart attacks due to our stress hormones peaking after a weekend of relaxation. 

Yesterday, at Fairfax United Methodist Church, I got to experience a wonderful sermon on being enough.  Sorry Ian, I was in your pulpit and it wasn’t from me either.  It was from a younger member of your congregation, the Hugging Boy.  This young fellow moved through every pew and hugged each person present in the congregation.  Amazingly, he got a hug back and a smile from each person he hugged.  I hope that congregation realizes what a gift they have. I’ve experienced many church” meet and greets” but none as moving as the one done by this young boy.  His message was the gospel, “You are enough” and “I’m hugging you”.  Thanks for the wonderful wordless sermon. 

God’s presence was felt on my Pine Mountain Saturday get away too.  My day included lunch at Rose Cottage; where amazing bread is baked, a little shopping, and a ride on top of the mountain in the Roosevelt State Park.  The next couple of weeks will be peak leaf time on that mountain.  It’s well worth the trip.  God is definitely going to put on a show there this fall. 

He is definitely showing off in my garden. I’m ready this year with my ring-side seat on the porch.  This morning it’s gently raining and the weather is sweater and sock worthy.  The squirrel that fussed at me last week when I wrote from this spot is snuggled inside the bluebird house. He chewed out the hole so he could squeeze his chunky self into a warm dry home.  I don’t think he has a fireplace and hot cocoa but anything’s possible in the squirrel world.  He’s probably snacking on some of my recently planted lettuce from the pots in my front yard. No Name, not my cat, hasn’t brought any furry gifts by today.  Perhaps he’s squished up in a bluebird house too—I certainly wouldn’t put it past him.

Another great thing about my porch is that it gives ample space to stretch out for a Sunday afternoon nap.  The couch is in the sun after lunch and the October warmth made it a true Goldilocks moment for sleeping. 

Remember this week that we are all God’s hands out there.  We are enough for this task as are the people we encounter who believe they have to strive to be enough.  Perhaps the little Fairfax fellow will serve as a reminder to all of us what’s important about worship. 

 

Don’t forget to sign up for Holiday Hope at Shawmut United Methodist Church on November 21 at noon.  It’s a program and lunch for those of you who have lost a loved one and are facing the holidays for the first time alone.  It’s free and all you have to do is call for reservations.  334-768-2341.

 

. 

 

EdibleCreativity

www.EdibleCreativity.com

Check out this cool blog.  It's Ms. Nancy's daughter.  She sat on my porch yesterday and encouraged me to look her up.  Her blog is cute with fun designs, pictures and recipes. I aspire to such creativity but not enough to do much about it.

Queen Elizabeth toured Pine Mtn. with me this week.  Rose Cottage has the most wonderful breads and the croissants are----indescribable--only word I can think of is yummy,... buttery,... makes your mouth happy,... blasted to Paris with no jet...ok so I could think of more.  Queen E and I had the chicken/avocado salad sandwich and some kind of steak soup---go with half a sandwich unless you have recently walked a long trail in the Roosevelt State Park. 

Speaking of that park--took a short car ride on the top of the mountain from the country store to the first spot that you can get back to the main road to Callaway. So lovely. Couple of spots to pull off and enjoy the view of the valley below.  Trees are just beginning to turn.  Duke Boy and I usually do this one in the convertible this time of year.  Great spot for convertible therapy. 

Had to privilege of stealing the pulpit form Ian at Fairfax UMC yesterday.  It was United Methodist Women's Sunday and I was their speaker for the Pastoral Institute.  Cutest little hugging boy there.  He was about 10 and he went through each pew before the service and hugged everyone in the congregation.  No one escaped his embrace and ever single person that I observed smiled and hugged him back.  During my mini sermon I told them that it had in essence been a group hug. 

He helped me with my point of not having to be perfect in our worldly definition but that we are enough just as we are.  He didn't discriminate.  Hugged everyone.  We were enough!  Truly beautiful.  That little boy steals the sermon every Sunday morning. 

Stole this one from my niece, Laura.  She's in NYC finding her bliss. Isn't this an amazing pix.