Around Town

End of Summer

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As there are many warm days left to enjoy it seems like when the school buses start running again it feels like the end of summer.

I miss Larissa being here even though it was noon most days when she appeared I knew she was here.  

The days of summer this year have been filled with many adventures and we have shared and had many good times.

Larissa enjoyed trips to the swimming pool with friends and a trip to Great Lodge Water Park.  She has been making brownies, cleaning closets and learning to drive a car.   She is a sophomore this year and I already am feeling the empty nest syndrome watching her grow and change.  And knowing in a couple years it will be different; it will be time for her to learn how to make her own path in life.

Kym and I have enjoyed many Cooking through the Calendar classes and the Farmers Market Appreciation Days.  We have gotten up early hit the yard sales looking for bargains and searched through the primitive and antique shops (one of my favorite things to do).  We often talk of being able to have our own little shop filled with beautiful merchandise and attractive windows.

Just last week we enjoyed a trip to Cowan Station Honey Farm.  What an honor to get to sit and listen to Regina and Bruce Barnes talk about their life, business and love for God.  It was a blessing to get to visit them and thankful for their hospitality.  They are such a talented family.  And it’s just not honey; I was taken in by the beautiful jars of jellies and jams of different flavors.  And by far the strawberry jelly is the best I have ever eaten!!  Then after visiting there Kym and I drove out for some fresh peaches in Fairview.

So what a summer it has been!  Now trips to the stores and antique malls are already displaying fall scenes.  While I agree the colors are gorgeous I am not yet ready to give up the summer sun, breezes and flip-flops.   Even the hot, muggy weather is OK with me long, as I don’t have to have a coat and socks!!  Aug. 18, 2016

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All about tomatoes

 

This past week I took some time to do some vegetable canning.  Several of my tomatoes in the garden had ripened and dad also brought me a bucket full of German and Rutgers.

In the blanching and removing skin process I quickly learned the Rutgers are much more easier to work with.  The big German ones are pretty and meaty but also get mushy fast, yet make great juice.  

I kept thinking to myself, “Is this worth it just to make tomato juice?”   What a mess I had.  A pan to blanch tomatoes, a bowl to transport them to ice water, a sack for the peels, dipping it into jars, cleaning the rims, then waiting as it processed an hour and 45 minutes.  Plus clean up of all the dishes!  Were 14 jars of juice worth this?  

Guess my husband thought same thing when he asked what I was doing with all those jars of tomatoes.  I said, “Soup, it goes in soup!” Don’t question my intentions (even though I had questioned my own)!  

Yes, I suppose it was since it will be good this winter and remind me of summer again when it’s cold outside.  July 28, 2016

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Feeling the sting

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Do you ever just feel clumsy? I’ve been feeling that way a lot since July rolled around. 

I enjoy going outside and walking around my vegetable and flower gardens and lifting the plant limbs to see what’s growing, ripening and blooming.

My dog, Baylee, also loves to go outside and take a walk so we go out several times a day. 

Well, last Monday during one of my treks to the garden my big toe landed on a honeybee. I hopped around and finally sat down and pulled the stinger out just knowing what the outcome was going to be. 

Just as I knew it would, my toe turned red, swelled up, itched and ached all through the night.

For the next few days, I continued to work between throwing up, a fever and a headache until I could break away and get to the doctor on Thursday.

A dose of steroids and a brand new Epi pen were the solution to such a severe reaction. (And watching all the clover patches when I walked outside.) 

After a few days I was finally feeling better and able to walk and the itching had stopped. 

Soon it was Monday again and Baylee sat whining wanting to take a walk, so I said to her let’s go. We treked around the garden, then around the block and headed back to the house. 

Then there he was—that ole white cat I am always shooing off and Baylee spots him. Off she takes running after him and dragging me with her and my foot ends up in a small hole and me on the ground. There I am sitting on the ground, pride hurt, mad and foot throbbing. I sat there thinking can I stand up? After a bit I managed to get up hobble inside. Yes ...it just happened to be the same foot as the bee sting. Instantly it began swelling again and throbbing and soon I could not put any pressure on it or walk. The next day I made a trip to the ER where I found out I had pulled the tendons and received a beautiful new boot to wear! So with vacation about two weeks away I am hoping I can heal up. 

Maybe I should just stay inside?   July 14, 2016

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Natural talents

 

Many projects are going on in the files of Around Town.  Kym and I met this week with an individual helping us with a project and of course the conversation lead in many different directions.  It’s interesting to listen to tales told by individuals of the days they grew up.  When I was 16 I didn’t much think about things like that and wondered why do people talk about the “good ole days.”  But when you grow older the appreciation changes for history and a lot of times you wish things were the way they were “back then.”

We talked about how  people learn different trades back then.  All in all it’s just natural talent.  The ability to envision something, put in in motion and perfect it requires real talent.

We all have natural talents, maybe undiscovered, but if you think about it there are things you are good at.

One of my gifts has been newspaper.  It just came naturally to me.  I had the desire to learn and learn more.  Lots of times I am asked what training I have ... well my diploma is in administration.  My training was hands on — that’s how I learn best.  

Lowell Denton saw my love of photography so he trained me.  He let me take photos and taught me how to develop film and make images in the dark room.  Then Guy Hatfield fed my knowledge to design.  He brought in new Apple computers and the world was becoming digital.  Photos were coming on a card instead of the dark room.  Although it was sad, I was always eager to learn.   A perfectionist is what I call it, maybe OCD even but I wanted everything to look a certain way.

I do not carry a journalism degree either, but I had a great teacher since around 1999.  Carolyn Schwartz joined us at the newspaper and soon began editing the paper and my typing.  At first my work came back and it looked like she had bled all over it with her red ink pen, but slowly she taught me AP (American Press) style and has been teaching me something new ever since.  She has a true talent for words.

I love designing.  I used to pace the floors waiting for the newspaper to return from the press.  I couldn’t wait to see what I pieced together looked like in print.    Especially when we transferred to color.  I will never forget Guy Hatfield telling the story of when the first edition went to color—he sent out the reporters for great photos and they ran a photo of a black and white cow!  

The newspaper has taken me a lot of places.  There are many stories I could tell.  There have been many adventures and a lot of learning along the way.  Talents are sometimes hidden, I never thought this is what I would do but here I am.  And it’s ok.  June 16, 2016

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Pieces made by my grandmother

 

Each night I sleep under a quilt hand pieced by my mamaw Thomas.

It is a Flower Garden pattern made with many various styles of material.   It’s not one of my favorite colors but she made it with her hands and time.

I woke up the other morning and sat on the bed and just really took time to notice the stitching. How she created her own designs with the quilting.  It is beautiful.  She was so talented.  I wish I had gotten the chance to learn that skill from her.

I do know how to quilt, but I am slow.  My hands and arms have given out on me through years of working two or more jobs at a time.  Numerous hours and lifting has taken its toll. They hurt and cramp and I can do a little quilting at a time.  I am embarrassed to say but I have been working on a quilt for Larissa for three years now.  I have a mission to get it finished and soon as my hands let me I will quilt on it again.  It’s not fancy as mamaw’s but it’s by my hands.

I have seen several of mamaw’s quilts and they are all unique.  It’s quite a gift to those who are blessed with that talent.

I think of her each time I look at it.  Pieces of memories of her life and legacy and all she left behind.  Treasure those moments you have, I miss my grandparents very much.  June 9, 2016

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Summer fresh

 

Tomatoes, cabbage, corn, peppers, etc. summer fresh.  Since the sun has popped out my dog and I take several walks around the garden daily.  I slowly walk by studying each plant, watching it mature, bloom and then vegetables and fruit will appear.  

I saw a small tomato the other day in what I have named my “canning row.”  This is the row that I hope will produce enough tomatoes to make me a nice stash of tomato juice and maybe salsa (if I attempt it) for the winter.  Last year I put out several plants but production wasn’t well with the large amount of rainfall.  My beans were also ruined last year.  It seemed to rain and rain and you could never get a chance to pick them.

I also have bell peppers and banana peppers.  I plan to pickle the banana peppers and freeze some of the others.  My co-worker Kym said I did a good job pickling last year so I am up for trying it again.  I love to try things and usually if I don’t get it right I keep trying until I figure it out.

And of course I have the yummy potatoes and onions coming up.

I have a small bed of lettuce that each time I walk by and look at it I think of my papaw Thomas.  I remember his lettuce bed covered with cotton and wire hooked pegs.  And he always grew the little yellow cherry tomatoes because he knew I liked them.  

When I look at the garden I also think of my grandmother Landsaw.  Mamaw always canned large amounts of food each year.  The directions I can my tomatoes is how she told me to do it.  It’s always a reminder of her.  

Summer fresh is always best ... if you can’t grow your own visit your local farmers markets.  June 2, 2016

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I have been waiting for this moment

 

The sun popped out!  It’s warm outside!  I have been waiting and waiting for this moment.

Last fall my husband Jeff and his brother built a deck on the back of our home.  I had wanted one since I had moved here and we finally had the opportunity to build one.  Within weeks the weather turned cold and we didn’t get a lot of sitting time.  But now we have had been able to enjoy two dinners sitting on the new deck, grilling out and enjoying listening to the birds and just the quiet time.

I also planted bulbs last fall so I have been anxious to see if they will shoot up and they have!  So I have been pulling and cleaning up the weeds around them and preparing to lay some mulching material down to protect them and counting the days to see the beautiful blooms.  I am not sure what I planted where so guess that will be a surprise, I can tell by the leaves what some of the plants are but a couple I am not sure about.

I have also made a trip to the garden plot these warm days.  Jeff and I planted potatoes and onions.  Then one day I went on my own and planted radishes and lettuce.  I didn’t get the row straight so I knew I would hear about that but I also didn’t leave enough room between the rows for a tiller, so guess my hand will find a hoe later on.

Last Sunday I walked out and my first reaction was uh ... it’s hot.  Then immediately I thought don’t complain—you don’t have to bundle up in layers, socks, coat, gloves and shoes. I despise that anymore.  Pair of shorts and flips flops and I am good to go!  That’s living.

I am anxious to see what Larissa and I can get into this summer, school will be out in about a month.  Probably practicing driving since she will be 16 soon.  I can’t believe it ... I still remember bringing her to work with me holding her while typing and designing ads and her sharing a plate of fruit with Carolyn Schwartz.  She is growing up and she is changing.  I see it more each day that step between preteen and planning for the future.  And it’s scary.  Empty nest syndrome is setting in.  So this summer hopefully we can have so fun.

Until next time ... happy planting and spring time joys.  April 21, 2016

 

Rewarding occupations

Choosing an occupation can sometimes be challenging. One might think a certain career is the way to go then get into it and decide maybe this isn’t for me. Although most of my career life has been spent in the newspaper industry, I have had a few other types of jobs that I have enjoyed. I was a state registered nursing assistant a few years ago while in between newspaper jobs. I had gotten laid off after the newspaper sold and at that point in my life I wasn’t sure what I was going to do. I was A single mother of two daughters, had to relocate and had to figure out how I was going to pay a $450 gas bill. Let’s say life was rough waters. Fortunately, as I have always believed “When God closes one door, He opens another.” I had expected a layoff so I had enrolled in nursing classes and became certified. So for 8 months I applied and interviewed and was finally hired. I began my work in a nursing home. After 17 years of only working on a computer, I was struggling. The Human Resource manager called me in her office after a couple of weeks. She told me that she would give me two weeks to pull it together. She paired me up with Jean Brinegar to help train me. Jean worked with me until I understood the routine and I think I was eventually one of the better CNA’s there. My fellow co-workers were some of the best friends ever. Debbie Hunt - I miss her terribly. She and I were partners most days. It was hard work, and low pay, but most CNA’s, the good ones, care so deeply. And this staff did. When I was diagnosed with a pituitary tumor one of the LPN’s brought me a prayer cloth, I still carry it. Not only do you get close to the staff but the residents as well. One resident I was close to was a retired RN and the sweetest woman ever. She had no family or children and we needed each other it seemed. Each day I made sure she awoke with a warm washcloth to clean her face. She would always tell girls I was training that they had the best teacher and I was such a good nurse. I never forget the day I told her I was leaving, she cried. She gave me a card and necklace when I left and I cherish those. She passed away two or three weeks after I left. Since leaving my job at the nursing home, I have seen many obituaries come through my email of the people I cared for. I think of walking in their rooms and telling them good morning. Being a caregiver is a hard job, but the rewards are great. A person can make a difference in someone’s life with a simple warm hello and a smile. Today, as my career has come full circle and I am back to work as a graphic artist, my staff and I hope to reach out to bring a smile to our readers each week.  April 14, 2016

 

Spring Blooms and Eastertime

Spring is such a beautiful time.  It’s exciting to walk around the house and see what’s starting to peek up through the ground.

Daffodils are one of my favorite flowers.  The beautiful, quaint flower symbolizes rebirth and new beginnings. They are also known as the “Lent Lily.”  Lore connects the daffodil to not only a sign of winter’s end, but also a lucky emblem of the future that prosperity is found throughout the world.   

Daffodils remind me Easter is near.  Easter was as much fun in the house as Christmas.  Making the girls baskets each year and watching as they woke up excited the “Easter Bunny” had been at the house.  The girls didn’t get to experience egg hunts like I did growing up.  Since I am an only child there aren’t the aunts and uncles and close cousin connections there. We did occasionally color and decorate eggs together.

Growing up we would gather at my mamaw and papaw Landsaw’s house for Easter.  My mother has a large family with 11 siblings so there was always someone at mamaw’s house.   

We would color eggs not with food coloring though we used crayons.  And one year I recall the “lucky” egg was a big goose egg.  There was nothing fancy and no big prizes but we had fun.  

The adults would hide the eggs; we would hunt, count to see if we found them all, and then do it over again.  Afterwards we sat on the front porch and ate the eggs.  Papaw loved boiled eggs. I can remember him sitting in the chair peeling the eggs one after another.  

It was also the one time of year I got to see my aunt Hazel and her former husband John. They resided in Michigan and only got home a few times a year.   John used to pack me around the yard and I thought that was grand.  Cherished memories.

Life is like seasons, we grow and things change. People are here then gone.  Our lives adjust around that.  Some traditions die with them, some live on.

Resurrection is a new beginning, a new life.  When the world wakes up from winter here in Kentucky the grass becomes green again, trees bloom and sprout leaves again, babies are born, flowers pop back up and gardens are planted.  When we celebrate life and being given the chance to live again, mourn the death of Jesus but rejoice in the fact that He again lives.  

Spring is glorious, like all the other seasons each with purpose, memories and moments.   March 24, 2016

 

Farming for a living ....

As we gathered information about national agriculture week it made me think of the infamous words I once said to my father “I will never marry a farmer.”

When I was growing up papaw and dad raised tobacco. I don’t remember a lot about my childhood but I remember the trips to the fields and pulling tobacco plants.  I recall riding that old tobacco setter—click, click, click—placing plants in the ground one by one. Papaw always followed the setter making sure there was a plant in every spot.  Every once in a while I would miss a plant or put it in upside down so papaw would fuss. Sometimes the plants would get tangled up and I would miss several turns until I got resituated. There were even times I had to yell “whoa, whoa” to get the tractor driver to “hold up” so I could straighten out my tangled mess. 

Memories and moments … it’s strange what stands out and stays with us. I remember wanting to ride the tractor and dad wouldn’t let me, but he let another girl ride that belonged to one of the women helping. I got so angry. I took off walking up the hollow to find my papaw. No one knew where I went and that’s how I wanted it. Papaw and I pulled plants till we had enough and we got back in his little pickup and rode back down the hollow.  Know one even missed me that I remember. 

Most times I was walking with my papaw behind the setter.  I still see him bending over digging in the dirt saying, “Now dig till you find water” and pulling his muddy fingers out from the dirt. 

Come fall and winter meant stripping time. I didn’t spend much time in the stripping room but when I did I stripped what was called reds—the last leaves on the stalk.  I would get a handful and get papaw to tie it off for me.  One of the only times I remember being in the barn was when mom sat me on a stool and the stool leg went down in a mouse hole in the ground and I landed on the pot bellied stove and burned the palm of my hand. We didn’t get to go home until lunchtime and mom doctored it. She must have done the right things because I never had a scar.   There was also the time I fell asleep on the wagon and had horrible sunburn.  So ... I decided farming wasn’t for me.

After I had left home and was on my own I decided I was going to help dad in tobacco again one day. But with my allergies just pulling plants had me sneezing and snuffing all day.  Dad said he would never take me back and I replied “good, I don’t want to go back.”

Twenty-some years later I remarried.  My husband, Jeff, isn’t the typical farmer, but it’s not because of his lack of wanting to be; opportunity has never been right.  We raise a few cows and I have to admit I love to see the new babies. And last year I raised four baby chicks. Today I have two hens left; two didn’t survive.  “Doodles” (baby chicks) as my mamaw Landsaw called them are much prettier than grown chickens but I do enjoy talking to them and watching them.  Yes, I could be content on a farm with the cows, chicks, maybe some ducks and goats and a garden ... but far as tobacco I am out.  That’s why we say thank you to those who enjoy that work and other crop work.

I know my husband and I see retirement different. He is happy with dirt under his toes but I want sand under mine.  Maybe we will find a happy meeting ground. A little time here, and a little time there, and possibly we both can have a bit of paradise.  March 17, 2016

 

 

Blessings ....

Blessings transform our lives in various ways.  Christmastime draws those feelings out more than any other time of the year. 

One of my greatest blessings has been to work as a graphic artist in the newspaper industry. 

If you don’t know exactly what I do here at the newspaper well … I design the pages you read here every week and I also design the ads that are purchased plus many other things that it takes just to get a paper to the press and to your hands.   

And learning how to do that has been a lifetime of learning from some of the best men and women in this field.  

I was a mere 21-years-old and didn’t know where I was supposed to be in this world when I began my employment at the Flemingsburg Gazette.  I answered an ad for a typesetter.  This was a person who typed all the articles so they could be used for print.  Everything had to be typed; it wasn’t like it is now 20 years later with copy and paste.   Lowell Denton called me to come in, and I went, sat down and he handed me a long wedding event to type up.  Oh, I was a horrible typist, I had just learned to type in college and was very slow, but he had a cat there that just happened to like me and he didn’t like anyone according to the workers there.  Bless him, he hired me and said “don’t worry about that you’ll get better.”   And I did.   I think it was the cat to this day that got me that job but it started a career.

Lowell brought out my love of photography allowing me to take photos of events and parades and teaching me how to use the dark room and develop photos.  This was the highlight of my week.  I couldn’t wait to go into that dark room and watch images appear on paper.  He sent me to meetings because his hearing was failing and I took notes and he wrote stories from my notes.  Former mayor Woodie Todd called me “little Lowell” but I didn’t mind, he was a great teacher.  He lifted me up in some low moments – gave me a job, gave me more hours when I needed them and taught me skills.  We would tear apart computers to see if we could get them back together.  I listened to Jinny Fille sell ads and watched Patricia Bloomfield cut each typeset piece out and form the puzzle to make the newspaper.  I was fascinated and desired to learn.  

Lowell decided to sell the paper to another great publisher Guy Hatfield.  Hatfield changed what we were doing and moved us into computer technology.  I can remember those purple iMacs being brought in and thinking how cool.  I remember he brought an instructional tape and sat me down in front of a TV and told me to learn.  I watched about 30 minutes of it and told Jinny Fille that I will learn this on my own.  And I did.  I learned design programs and photo shop, how to bill through Quick books.  Anything he tossed at me I embraced it and he knew that.  He hired Debbie McCord and the two of us hit the ground like lightning.   We loved what we did and the bigger the better.  My competitive side shined during these years.  Hatfield was like a second father to me. Anything I needed or wanted to talk about his door was always open.   When he passed away it was a great loss in my life.  Some days I wish I could pick up the phone and just hear him and get his advice. 

In failing health he decided to sell the paper.  He then directed me to another great publisher, Ken Metz in Owingsville.

Ken was unlike Guy; Ken was mild and didn’t ruffle feathers.  He was about promoting good things and hated when he had to publish something bad or would tarnish an individual.   During one of the hardest parts of my life Ken helped me through, kept me employed, regardless of numerous days I couldn’t be there, and I will always remember that and be grateful to him and his family.  Being sent there was a true blessing in my life.  

It was at this point as well when Debbie and I started the Messenger newspaper.  We were intent to bring good news and joy to the community.  We surrounded ourselves with good writers—Carolyn Schwartz and Kymberly King and we took off.   When tragedy entered my life and the economy went slowly down we decided to sell and to this day it’s one of my biggest regrets.

Around Town is a version of the Messenger.  We want to tell the stories of peoples lives and events that happen in the communities.  We have been blessed with the same great writers and staff once again. No, it’s not hard news… we chose not to be that type of a publication.

We chose to publish articles that highlight how our communities are blessed with great folks who live and work in our surrounding towns.  It is what we do best and it is exciting to see it come out in print and think hey, I did that.  With a lot of help from the above mentioned is why I am at this place today and I am proud of that.  Blessings in my life at the most needed times, like angels that have appeared; taking me to a different place, giving me a new change and letting me do what I love and enjoy.  A negative word from individuals is not going to change how I feel or what I do.  That’s the talent that God gave me.  And on all my emails that are sent out is the simple message … “All that I am and all that I have is God’s.   When I stand before God at the end of my life, I would hope that I would not have a single bit of talent left, and could say, ‘I used everything you gave me.’

May God bless you this Christmas and throughout the year.  Dec. 24, 2015

 

 

It’s about the food

Holidays … besides the gifts, bows, trees and lights we of course think food.  

I love to watch the Food Network.  Most days if you walk in my living room that is what is playing on the television.  I am not a fancy cook but I do enjoy cooking the simple, everyday things. I like to watch and learn what foods go best together, new cooking methods, how to cook certain foods, short cuts and healthier choices.

What are your favorite holiday foods?  I love turkey, stuffing, broccoli casserole and sweet potatoes.  I enjoy the candies and cookies but really don’t induldge in those—I would rather have a yummy ham roll!  I love peanut butter rolls and fudge and my friend Kymberly makes to die for cream candy! One Christmas she made an effort to teach me but I have yet to make a batch like hers (or one period) on my own.  I don’t have something down just right—maybe I can talk her into another lesson one day.  Using a candy thermometer seems to be a bit challenging for me.

I make pecan tassies, sugar pecans, cheese balls and Ritz cracker sandwiches with white chocolate—they are my usuals.  My daughter Larissa likes to make hard cinnamon candy and we can usually manage that ok.

At times we have tried sugar cookies and icing but I find we throw a lot away so I just make what is usually enjoyed the most.

This is a spectacular time of year.  If we all could enjoy life as much all year long and be kind to each other think what a difference this world would be.  Please don’t forget Salvation Army and local food pantry’s this Christmas.  Dec. 17, 2015

 

 

 

Santas, snowmen and a boxful of ornaments

Previously I wrote about finding a Christmas tree.  Our search came to an end as Jeff and I finally brought a tree home one evening.  I can’t say my sad “puppy eyes” worked since we brought home the “most affordable” one … but it has all worked out.

I have been almost two weeks now working on a rope of garland for the tree.  I wanted a primitive look so I have been creating a “rag” garland.  I made two trips to the store for material plus my mother-in-law was gracious in giving me a bag of scraps so I could continue my roping.  I still lack a good 5 feet.  Who in the world would imagine a garland to wrap around a tree would need to be so long?   I tend to get started on craft projects then wonder what was I thinking. But the rag garland adds the perfect country touch that will eventually wrap all the way around my tree.

Alone  at the house one evening I got out my box of ornaments and started going through each level.  As I slowly unwrapped each fragile keepsake I remembered where each special one originated from.

I unwrapped two glass balls with beautifully hand painted snowmen on them.  Each snowman  wears a toboggan with my precious daughter’s name monogrammed on them. I remember when my close friend Debbie gave the girls those glass ornaments when they were little.  They are two of my very favorite ornaments on the tree and each year I carefully wrap them and store them for safe keeping.  

I continued through the box and I found the cute little vintage gold bells my dear friend Kymberly passed down to me.  

I then unwrapped all the Disney special ornaments the girls have picked out through the years.  Cinderella glass slippers, Minnie Mouse, Pluto, Pinocchio and various others that had special meaning to them.

I found the perfect spot for the handmade jingle bell ornament a resident’s daughter gave me when I worked at the nursing home as a nurse aide.  It’s very special because I remember those times taking care of the residents, the connections you make with the family.  It will always have special meaning to me.

Then there are all the ornaments I have collected through the years just because they are beautiful to me.  I love clear and shiny things that glitter when the lights hit them, snowmen and Santa Clauses.  The magic it represents is timeless and as I look and remember back to who it’s from and where it came from and  think back to the girls placing them on the tree over the years each ornament has special meaning. 

We should always believe … and always treasure the true gift of the season.   Dec. 3, 2015

 

 

 

The search for a Christmas tree...

There we stand in Walmart looking, starring up at a row of trees.

Being married, it’s give and take … we make decisions together even though sometimes not unanimously.

I had already been there looking before Jeff came along and I had picked out the exact one I liked.  The only thing it was pre-lit.  I don’t like that because if one goes out, there you are—no lights. And Jeff picks out another one.  Good thing about it was it was reasonably priced and wasn’t pre-lit but wasn’t my ‘ideal’ tree.  You know how you look at something and say I want that … that wasn’t ringing in my head looking at this tree.  

So we didn’t purchase a tree yet and I don’t want the mess of another real tree although its fun to pick it out and the smell is great.  

I have a primitive tree I keep up all the time and last year I thought … hey, I’ll just scoot this over by the big window and it will be a Christmas tree this year.  Well … my youngest daughter was quick to tell me that’s not a Christmas tree.  Ok … so off we went to Hutton’s Tree Farm.  This year though I plan to purchase a new tree … if we can come to an agreement! (Yeah, I MAY win if I give those puppy eyes well enough!).

First comes Thanksgiving though and the joys of a nice dinner and some relaxation.  Have a great week!  Nov. 19, 2015

 

 

Do you believe in what you can’t see? 

Do you believe in what you can’t see? Are there simple explanations for bumps, things being moved or noises you might hear?

One day last week I had the television on and one of those court shows happened to be playing and I over- heard them say the plaintiff is suing the defendant be- cause the house she rented is haunted. I thought how hilarious! I listened to her and her drawn out south- ern drawl and she honestly believed that she should be reimbursed because her toilet was ushing by itself. Of course the defendant has some reason why the toilet was ushing but except for the automatic jobs I have never encountered a toi- let that ushed on its own. Have you?

Although, I have wit- nessed my own versions of “ghosts” during points in my life.

My mother has always been a believer and has told stories of de ated balloons moving mysteriously to dif- ferent rooms, coffee being made in the morning, and even feeling like a relative was after her after we had done some genealogy ex- ploring. But I have had my own rst hand experiences in the past years as well.

The rst time was when I was feeling ill. I wasn’t sure what was going on but I was sick. I remember laying in the bed, didn’t feel like dragging and I felt my hand go numb, like someone was squeezing it. I know it was

my grandfather telling me I needed to get help that something was wrong. It was the same feeling I got when I was young and he would squeeze my hand every time I walked by his chair and he’d say “tell me when it hurts.” Jinny Fille called and came and got me, took me to the emergency room. Then suddenly the squeeze stopped, just like heletgo. IfoundoutIhada severe urinary infection but was also pregnant.

Then lots of weird things began happening when we bought and moved into Charles Rolph’s home on Mt. Sterling Road.

Larissa, my daughter, was just an infant. I was putting things away after the move. I had a chest and thought I will set this baby powder up here until later. I set it down, turned around and instantly it was tossed towards me. No, it didn’t just drop, it was pushed off at me. Then one day I was home alone and heard a little girl say ‘“mommy.” I instantly said “what” then realized I was alone. Things were always going on there. Tabitha, my oldest, and her friends claimed to see and hear

move every night same time I would be awakened by this music playing ... “We Wish You a Merry Christmas.” Needless to say I was ready to come on up out of here. So I called mom, she stayed the night and the music comes on. So she searched and found there was a clock in my desk and an alarm set going off playing this song! I was scared for weeks! I felt so crazy. I sometimes think I see shadows or hear something here, but think oh, it’s just the house set- tling.

So, yes I do believe that sometimes things go on that are just unexplainable.

Email me at aroundtownnewspaper@gmail.com.   Oct. 22, 2015

 

 

When reality jolts our world 

We don’t think about it a lot, but our lives can change in just mer seconds. Everything solid and secure we believe in can be jolted and our whole being forced to accept the unthinkable.

The past couple of weeks in Bath County families, friends and the community have been forced into the unthinkable. Our precious children ... three of them ... one passed away and two seriously injured. The question “why” lingers with no answers but the reality is learning how to keep living.

Last Friday night my daughter Larissa was at the football game to play with the marching band. The band didn’t get to play because of rain. My husband, Jeff, and I had gone out to grab a bite of dinner and Larissa called to come get her. I told her give me just a few minutes and we will be on the way. A little bit later she called and told me to “be careful.” This was unlike her and I said to Jeff, I won- der what’s going on with her. At the time I didn’t know of the accident. When we arrived to pick her up she began to tell me of the fatality and how they had lost a classmate. She talked of the sadness and crying. It’s hard to explain to a 14-year-old why tragedies happen. Why a 15-year-old young man was taken away from this world. And even though they weren’t friends she still felt the pain ... as did I.

I sat this past week scrolling through facebook looking at photos, you tube videos and cried. Thinking how in this world do you get through burying your child. And in all honesty didn’t want to be thinking about it. I send out condolences and pray for those recov- ering. And pray for peace for the families. Then thoughts go back to my older daughter Tabitha. She has lost several young friends as well. Horrible accidents that you wonder “what if” but there aren’t any answers. That hit of reality you never forget ... I am not a believer in “time heals all wounds.” I believe you just learn to accept what is, and how to get through the day. I remember the night hearing an ambulance go past the house then the phone ringing. It was my grandmother. My grandfather had a massive heart attack and was gone. Just the same day, that morning as I was driving by my grandparents house going to work, I saw papaw in the yard walking and I thought I need to stop and see him. And then he was gone. I never had that chance again, never could talk to him again. You never forget those things. Sometimes I think if I could just remember the sound of his voice. If he could just squeeze my hand one more time “till it hurts.” Memories and moments are all we have, its what we hold inside, what we are made of. It’s not that we are taking things for granted so much ... it’s just we don’t think of the unexpected happening to us. Anything can happen at any given time. No, we can never be prepared for tragedies, nor can words ease the pain, we just have to learn how to live with it.  Oct. 1, 2015

 

 

Homecoming and school days

As the years have continued to go by my daughters have grown up.  Imagine that.  

My oldest daughter, Tabitha, 23, is working and providing for herself. My younger daughter Larissa, now 14, is just beginning her freshman year in high school.  Tabitha graduated in 2011 so I had gotten out of the routine of being a “running” parent.  This past week has been homecoming week in the county and I sure have gotten my dosage of remembering real quick.  

We started last weekend with the dress search.  It wasn’t as bad as I thought it was going to be, actually went quite smooth.  Then to find accessories ... a necklace, some earrings.  By the time we purchased those we had become hungry and quite bearish with each other so the shoe shopping would have to be saved for another day.  As the week has progressed all the other small details have been taken care of—flowers purchased, hair appointment scheduled.  Wednesday night we spent watching the homecoming parade.  This was Larissa’s first parade, she is a band member and there is always that proud feeling inside when you see your child perform.  A pep rally followed the parade.  The next evening we went shoe shopping and a manicure to complete the attire.  The big game was Friday night and the dance Saturday.  Her first homecoming dance.  

As I dropped Larissa off to school on Monday I looked at the football field.  Instantly I flashed back and saw the late 1980s.  It was different then but I could still see it just for a minute.  Sitting on the other side of the field where the bleachers used to be located.    People were running in and out under the bleachers and I was watching a game I knew little about.  At the time our class went to what is now Bath County Middle School, we were the last class that graduated from there (1989) before the new facility was built.  I wore a long full, simple dress. Blue with white pinhead dots on it. Big, well hairsprayed hair that I had styled myself.  Wasn’t any sequins and rhinestones and fancy shoes or nails. 

The football team changed in the white building beyond the field and I remember waiting for my date to come out after the game.  And I remembered the feeling of going in with one person and leaving alone.  But ... that’s part of growing up.  Our senior year my best friend Nita Conn was named homecoming queen.  I never stayed at the dances long because I have never been much of a two-stepper so it was quite boring to me.  Now things are different … parades, the game, dance on a separate night, week full of activities.  And I guess all these changes are improvements, but it’s still good to remember how it used to be.  

High school is full of so many memories.  Each day as I drop Larissa off I am reminded of things even though we graduated from the school ‘down the street.’  I look at the greenhouses as I go around and I remember them filled with  poinsettia’s, tomato plants and hanging baskets.  Sitting with Mr. Adams as we used to sell to the community when the plants were ready for purchase.  Making bows and corsages (and Mike Crump painting my hair blue … yes, I remember that!).  Singing in choir with Ms. Jeanes and competitions at MSU.  I still remember word for word the song we sang at our graduation.  The trip Mr. Stamm and his wife made with the FFA officers taking us to St. Louis and the trip up the Gateway Arch.  I think of the big windows that were in the stairways and Nita and I posing for a picture there.  Those few minutes between classes with a boyfriend.  Racing to homeroom in the mornings.  Talking on a corded phone for hours after we got home like we had never seen each other all day.  

Twenty-six years ago is a long time but I still remember lots of things.  There are so many terrific opportunities now for young people and I encourage you all to enjoy and embrace those opportunities.  It goes by so quickly and even though the growing and learning pains you go through are hard, it’s still some of the greatest memories you will experience.  

People change, friends change, places change ... but learn and take in all you can … you will always cherish those memories and times you share.   Sept. 24, 2015