Oh, the joys of retirement!
After having both new tires and brakes installed on our little Ford Escape, and being grateful we could do so, we had a wonderful week.
It's wonderful being able to pick up and go. This pick-up-and-go week involved being with Jordan and his little family to celebrate Jayden's birthday! Oh, it was just three short years ago that we wondered if the little (and I do mean LITTLE) fellow was going to make it. Look at the difference in these pictures:
He arrived at 27 weeks, weighing 2 lbs 12 oz
Today - you can never tell he had such an early start to his life!
The grandboys are stairsteps - just like my own kids were. And---they can do no wrong (in their grandparents' eyes!)
We also enjoyed our usual farmer's market this week, along with a street mart. I just love looking around and seeing what I can't live without. A few weeks ago, we enjoyed a free community meal at one of the local little churches. They also have "Clothes Line" each Saturday, where one can fill a bag for $2. I've decided that instead of taking my clothes to a consignment shop, I will be donating them to this little church. They do good things for the community, and I want to give.
It was very, very hot in Ohio this week. I was particularly thankful that I didn't have to worry about Mr. Kerry delivering mail in the blistering heat. Some days, we just laid in our air-conditioned bedroom and read. It was just too, too hot.
I couldn't help but think of my own mother in all of this hot weather, for it was 55 years ago this week that she delivered me. She was 41 years old - a bit old in 1955 to start a second family.
My mom on 4 Jul 1955 - just four days before I was born.
Look how cute I used to be!
My dad, Chester, baptizing me on my 8th birthday - 1963.
And, this is me today...
I remember mom telling me about a church picnic held at a local park when I would have been about 2 years old. It might have been at the same time I was pictured in the photo above in the little stroller.
She had painted her toenails red. Bright red. At this park, there were swans - and they chased her all over the park trying to peck at her toenails. I guess they thought they were berries.
She ended up eating her picnic dinner in the car.
I always do a lot of reflecting around my birthday. This year, I again concluded that I've had a very good life.
I was raised by good parents.
I've always had a home.
I've married the man of my dreams.
I had the privilege of raising a family.
I was raised with good morals and principles, and with a knowledge of the Lord.
Kerry and I were blessed with his having a good job.
I have had good health - with a few mishaps along the way - but with good doctors and the Priesthood I have always recovered.
I have learned to love this beautiful earth. And, I do mean beautiful.
I have learned to cherish my ancestors and my descendants.
I have had times when I've been poor - but, I've always been rich.
I was born in American - in the land of freedom.
Everything that is important to have in this life - I have had. It just doesn't get much better than that.
Thank you all for the birthday wishes you sent to me. I used to get a card from my insurance agent and the man we bought a van from 20 years ago. And, Janet! Always my Janet!!!
Love to you all......
Miss P
Monday, July 12, 2010
Sunday, July 4, 2010
Long may it wave...
Oh, Kerry and I love our country. We love our flag. We love where we live. We love our home - our little piece of earth we are privileged to care for...
Our week didn't start out so great, for we had a bit of a disparaging day on Monday. It's the first time in a long time that both of us were saddened and couldn't do much to help lift the other. And though we believe it's okay to allow ourselves to feel a bit of sadness at times, we don't believe in remaining there. By the end of the day, our spirits began to lift - and the next day we were back to our old selves.
We enjoyed the usual farmer's market trips, errand running, taking care of stuff we don't always feel like taking care off, etc. Kerry has enjoyed umpiring little league games on Wednesday nights. I remember years ago asking him why he continually enjoyed this activity - especially when it may involve getting yelled at, having dirt kicked on him, name calling, etc. He said it wasn't much different than being at home - he just got paid for it there.
Smart aleck.
Saturday began a day of festivities celebrating our country's birthday. It began with a free community breakfast that we enjoyed last year. We enjoyed scrambled eggs, eggs with peppers and onions, scrambled egg casserole, bacon, sausage, biscuits and gravy, orange juice and milk, toast, and an assortment of pastries. They treat us so well, and are constantly going around refilling whatever we want.
After that, it was off to Bellville to our favorite farmer's market. I just had to have homemade multi-grain bread, sugar-free jams, and a beautiful pot of zinnias - my grandfather's favorite flower.
Their little parade began at 11:00, so we wandered around for a bit and passed by Lowella Stichler, who was there with her husband, Mike. They raise these beautiful, HUGE Percheron horses that are shown all over Ohio.
She asked if we wanted to ride in the wagon - so we parked the car and hopped up into the wagon.
So, we went to see a parade and ended up in the parade. It was kind of fun. Give me small town America any day!
After feasting at an ice cream social in the firehouse, we brought our produce on home, let Mr. Eddie take his afternoon constitution, and took a short nap.
Then, it was off to the Amish restaurant, where I enjoyed a free birthday dinner. They send me a coupon every year, and we enjoyed an All-American buffet.
It was wonderful hearing the strong testimonies of the love people have of our country. Mormons are true patriots. Or rather, they should be. It was also good to see Eric Hellman, who was visiting the ward. He and his dear family used to live here years ago. Last week, I was embraced by Holly Calhoun, whose family also used to live here. I love seeing dear friends from the past...
Now it is evening. I can hear people shooting off fireworks. I can smell barbecues. I can see people quietly walking down our road - some with dogs - some with friends - some alone.
The fireflies are gently flying around - creating our own little show of fireworks. They are gentle little bugs that go around lighting up the night. Remember them, Miss Debbie? We once had one get stuck on our ceiling fan. His little tail continued to glow as the blades still whirred around. It sort of made a comet streak.
I also am thinking of the great patriots that formed the foundation of our country, and how they bore down in strong and pure testimony that God guided their hearts and their minds. I have many, many ancestors that fought in the Revolution to help secure our freedom. I'll bet you do, too.
One of my ancestors - a man by the name of Zachariah JOHNSTON, has been celebrated many times for standing up for what is right. I have copied and pasted the following quotes:
"Zachariah Johnston was a prosperous farmer by the time the American Revolution began. In 1776, he was appointed a captain in the county militia. Johnston's company actively patrolled against Indian uprisings, and, in 1781, participated in the Virginia campaign which led to Lord Cornwallis' surrender. Representing Augusta County in the House of Delegates from 1778 to 1791, Johnston was chair of the House committee on religion and helped pass the "act for establishing religious freedom" in 1786.
"It is my lot to be among the poor people. The most that I can claim, or flatter myself with, is to be of the middle rank. I wish no more, for I am content. But, I shall give my opinion unbiased and uninfluenced - without erudition or eloquence, but with firmness and candor. And in so doing I will satisfy my conscience. If this Constitution be bad, it will bear equally as hard on me as on any member of society. It will bear hard on my children, who are as dear to me as any man's children can be to him. Having their happiness at heart, the vote I shall give in its favor, can only be imputed to a conviction of its utility and propriety."
Religious freedom was essential to him. Before the Virginia House of Burgesses, delegate Zachariah Johnston confronted Patrick Henry with the following passionate speech: "…I was born a Presbyterian and I shall die a Presbyterian! But that day that Presbyterianism should become the established religion of this Country, I shall cease to be a Presbyterian." What an inspirational man. "
I can hardly wait to see him and thank him for standing strong. Here is a picture we took of his house, which still stands outside of Lexington, VA.
It's on the National Historic Register of houses. It's also for sale. I want it.
Another ancestor, Gilbert STEPHENS, states in his pension application that when he heard that when his beloved commander, George WASHINGTON, had died, he wept great tears.
Another ancestor, John Goolman DAVIDSON, an Indian spy, was murdered by Indians while tracking. We found his grave marker a few years ago - 200 years to the day after he was killed.
Another ancestor, Low BROWN, served with General George Rogers CLARK in the Illinois campaign to take the Northwest Territory from the English. It was the English who paid the Indians to bring scalps back to them so they could send them to England, where they made those white powdered wigs for Parliament. I don't know where they get them now.
Another ancestor, Phillip HAMMAN, was actually born in Germany. He also fought in the Revolutionary War. I again quote:
HAMMAN, PHIL. On Saturday, July 3, 1830, the fifty-fifth anniversary of American independence was celebrated at Bellefonte, Jackson Co, AL, at which among other participants were several Revolutionary patriots. After the reading of the Declaration of Independence by Henry F. Scruggs and the delivery of an oration by Hon. Samuel Moore, the company sat down to a plentiful dinner. After this many patriotic toasts were drunk. Only one, and that because of the historic fact it evoked, is here produced:
"By L. James, Esq. 'Capt. Phil HAMMAN: The Savior of Greenbrier - tho' his history is but little known, his intrepidity and patriotism are not let worthy of our commendation.'
After the drinking of this toast, the old soldier rose and said: He thanked the gentlemen for introducing his name on an occasion where he had already been too much honored. Tho' his history was not much known, he could not object to have the transactions of his life divulged to the world. For nine years he had been in the wars of his country - during a greater part of which he had been engaged in the most dangerous parts of Indian service. He had suffered much; on one occasion he had been stripped by savage rapacity of every vestige of property he possessed, even the clothing of himself and family - one of his children fell a victim to their cruelty. But not to dwell on the dangers he had endured, he would merely speak of the occasion so kindly alluded to in the toast. When stationed at Fort Randolph, at the mouth of the Big Kanawha, nine hundred Indians set off in a body to make an unexpected attack on the inhabitants of Greenbrier, Virginia. Two men were dispatched to apprize the people in that quarter of their approaching danger. In three days they returned, wounded, and in despair; others were sought for who would carry the express; none were found willing to engage in so dangerous and hopeless an undertaking when he and one John Pryor (who was afterwards killed by the Indians) painted and dressed in Indian garb set off, and in forty-eight hours travelled one hundred and sixty miles through the wilderness; they overtook the Indians within twelve miles of the white settlements, passed through their camps, and gave timely warning to the people of their impending danger. Such preparations were made for security and defense as the occasion permitted. About daylight a violent attack was made on Fort Donley; the conflict was desperate - the door of the Fort was broken open - he stood in it, and resisted the enemy - 'till it could be shut and fasted. The foe were repelled with great loss, and the country saved from savage barbarity. He said that although he was old and poor, and had not received the compensation promised him by his country, yet he thanked God he was in peace and safety, and could live 'without the aid of public or private charity.' He then offered the following sentiment:
"OUR RULERS: May they be just men, fearing God, and hating covetousness."
Southern Advocate, Huntsville, July 10, 1830."
I am not giving these examples to brag - I am giving them out of gratitude for their service. They fought hard. The conditions were anything but pleasant. And afterward, in 1832, an act of Congress was passed to grant them an pension. Some received it. Some did not. Some couldn't remember the dates of their service. Some didn't have the proof. Some lived in abject poverty until their death.
But, would they do it again? I'll just bet they would. None of my people are really famous - they were the backwoodsmen that came out with whatever weapon they could find - sometimes a pitchfork - to fight for the freedoms we enjoy today. They were the Germans. They were the Scots-Irish. Some were even English.
But, they all became Americans.
May God continue to bless America!
Love, Miss P
Oh, and I forgot Jim's birthday!!!! (Fern's husband) It's tomorrow - July 5th.
Our week didn't start out so great, for we had a bit of a disparaging day on Monday. It's the first time in a long time that both of us were saddened and couldn't do much to help lift the other. And though we believe it's okay to allow ourselves to feel a bit of sadness at times, we don't believe in remaining there. By the end of the day, our spirits began to lift - and the next day we were back to our old selves.
We enjoyed the usual farmer's market trips, errand running, taking care of stuff we don't always feel like taking care off, etc. Kerry has enjoyed umpiring little league games on Wednesday nights. I remember years ago asking him why he continually enjoyed this activity - especially when it may involve getting yelled at, having dirt kicked on him, name calling, etc. He said it wasn't much different than being at home - he just got paid for it there.
Smart aleck.
Saturday began a day of festivities celebrating our country's birthday. It began with a free community breakfast that we enjoyed last year. We enjoyed scrambled eggs, eggs with peppers and onions, scrambled egg casserole, bacon, sausage, biscuits and gravy, orange juice and milk, toast, and an assortment of pastries. They treat us so well, and are constantly going around refilling whatever we want.
After that, it was off to Bellville to our favorite farmer's market. I just had to have homemade multi-grain bread, sugar-free jams, and a beautiful pot of zinnias - my grandfather's favorite flower.
Their little parade began at 11:00, so we wandered around for a bit and passed by Lowella Stichler, who was there with her husband, Mike. They raise these beautiful, HUGE Percheron horses that are shown all over Ohio.
She asked if we wanted to ride in the wagon - so we parked the car and hopped up into the wagon.
So, we went to see a parade and ended up in the parade. It was kind of fun. Give me small town America any day!
After feasting at an ice cream social in the firehouse, we brought our produce on home, let Mr. Eddie take his afternoon constitution, and took a short nap.
Then, it was off to the Amish restaurant, where I enjoyed a free birthday dinner. They send me a coupon every year, and we enjoyed an All-American buffet.
It was wonderful hearing the strong testimonies of the love people have of our country. Mormons are true patriots. Or rather, they should be. It was also good to see Eric Hellman, who was visiting the ward. He and his dear family used to live here years ago. Last week, I was embraced by Holly Calhoun, whose family also used to live here. I love seeing dear friends from the past...
Now it is evening. I can hear people shooting off fireworks. I can smell barbecues. I can see people quietly walking down our road - some with dogs - some with friends - some alone.
The fireflies are gently flying around - creating our own little show of fireworks. They are gentle little bugs that go around lighting up the night. Remember them, Miss Debbie? We once had one get stuck on our ceiling fan. His little tail continued to glow as the blades still whirred around. It sort of made a comet streak.
I also am thinking of the great patriots that formed the foundation of our country, and how they bore down in strong and pure testimony that God guided their hearts and their minds. I have many, many ancestors that fought in the Revolution to help secure our freedom. I'll bet you do, too.
One of my ancestors - a man by the name of Zachariah JOHNSTON, has been celebrated many times for standing up for what is right. I have copied and pasted the following quotes:
"Zachariah Johnston was a prosperous farmer by the time the American Revolution began. In 1776, he was appointed a captain in the county militia. Johnston's company actively patrolled against Indian uprisings, and, in 1781, participated in the Virginia campaign which led to Lord Cornwallis' surrender. Representing Augusta County in the House of Delegates from 1778 to 1791, Johnston was chair of the House committee on religion and helped pass the "act for establishing religious freedom" in 1786.
"It is my lot to be among the poor people. The most that I can claim, or flatter myself with, is to be of the middle rank. I wish no more, for I am content. But, I shall give my opinion unbiased and uninfluenced - without erudition or eloquence, but with firmness and candor. And in so doing I will satisfy my conscience. If this Constitution be bad, it will bear equally as hard on me as on any member of society. It will bear hard on my children, who are as dear to me as any man's children can be to him. Having their happiness at heart, the vote I shall give in its favor, can only be imputed to a conviction of its utility and propriety."
Religious freedom was essential to him. Before the Virginia House of Burgesses, delegate Zachariah Johnston confronted Patrick Henry with the following passionate speech: "…I was born a Presbyterian and I shall die a Presbyterian! But that day that Presbyterianism should become the established religion of this Country, I shall cease to be a Presbyterian." What an inspirational man. "
I can hardly wait to see him and thank him for standing strong. Here is a picture we took of his house, which still stands outside of Lexington, VA.
It's on the National Historic Register of houses. It's also for sale. I want it.
Another ancestor, Gilbert STEPHENS, states in his pension application that when he heard that when his beloved commander, George WASHINGTON, had died, he wept great tears.
Another ancestor, John Goolman DAVIDSON, an Indian spy, was murdered by Indians while tracking. We found his grave marker a few years ago - 200 years to the day after he was killed.
Another ancestor, Low BROWN, served with General George Rogers CLARK in the Illinois campaign to take the Northwest Territory from the English. It was the English who paid the Indians to bring scalps back to them so they could send them to England, where they made those white powdered wigs for Parliament. I don't know where they get them now.
Another ancestor, Phillip HAMMAN, was actually born in Germany. He also fought in the Revolutionary War. I again quote:
HAMMAN, PHIL. On Saturday, July 3, 1830, the fifty-fifth anniversary of American independence was celebrated at Bellefonte, Jackson Co, AL, at which among other participants were several Revolutionary patriots. After the reading of the Declaration of Independence by Henry F. Scruggs and the delivery of an oration by Hon. Samuel Moore, the company sat down to a plentiful dinner. After this many patriotic toasts were drunk. Only one, and that because of the historic fact it evoked, is here produced:
"By L. James, Esq. 'Capt. Phil HAMMAN: The Savior of Greenbrier - tho' his history is but little known, his intrepidity and patriotism are not let worthy of our commendation.'
After the drinking of this toast, the old soldier rose and said: He thanked the gentlemen for introducing his name on an occasion where he had already been too much honored. Tho' his history was not much known, he could not object to have the transactions of his life divulged to the world. For nine years he had been in the wars of his country - during a greater part of which he had been engaged in the most dangerous parts of Indian service. He had suffered much; on one occasion he had been stripped by savage rapacity of every vestige of property he possessed, even the clothing of himself and family - one of his children fell a victim to their cruelty. But not to dwell on the dangers he had endured, he would merely speak of the occasion so kindly alluded to in the toast. When stationed at Fort Randolph, at the mouth of the Big Kanawha, nine hundred Indians set off in a body to make an unexpected attack on the inhabitants of Greenbrier, Virginia. Two men were dispatched to apprize the people in that quarter of their approaching danger. In three days they returned, wounded, and in despair; others were sought for who would carry the express; none were found willing to engage in so dangerous and hopeless an undertaking when he and one John Pryor (who was afterwards killed by the Indians) painted and dressed in Indian garb set off, and in forty-eight hours travelled one hundred and sixty miles through the wilderness; they overtook the Indians within twelve miles of the white settlements, passed through their camps, and gave timely warning to the people of their impending danger. Such preparations were made for security and defense as the occasion permitted. About daylight a violent attack was made on Fort Donley; the conflict was desperate - the door of the Fort was broken open - he stood in it, and resisted the enemy - 'till it could be shut and fasted. The foe were repelled with great loss, and the country saved from savage barbarity. He said that although he was old and poor, and had not received the compensation promised him by his country, yet he thanked God he was in peace and safety, and could live 'without the aid of public or private charity.' He then offered the following sentiment:
"OUR RULERS: May they be just men, fearing God, and hating covetousness."
Southern Advocate, Huntsville, July 10, 1830."
I am not giving these examples to brag - I am giving them out of gratitude for their service. They fought hard. The conditions were anything but pleasant. And afterward, in 1832, an act of Congress was passed to grant them an pension. Some received it. Some did not. Some couldn't remember the dates of their service. Some didn't have the proof. Some lived in abject poverty until their death.
But, would they do it again? I'll just bet they would. None of my people are really famous - they were the backwoodsmen that came out with whatever weapon they could find - sometimes a pitchfork - to fight for the freedoms we enjoy today. They were the Germans. They were the Scots-Irish. Some were even English.
But, they all became Americans.
May God continue to bless America!
Love, Miss P
Oh, and I forgot Jim's birthday!!!! (Fern's husband) It's tomorrow - July 5th.
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