"I heard there was someone who used to live in New Orleans who works here," my husband said to the hospital technician after his check up this morning.
"Oh, yes," the helpful specialist replied. "I'll show you to her office down the hall."
Ever since he heard that someone from New Orleans worked there, Howard had been obsessed with the idea of meeting a person from the city where he had worked for twenty years. Each time we were at the doctor's office, he had inquired about this individual. I couldn't understand his obsession with this, but he was relentless.
"There she is," our guide directed us, pointing to the open office door, "but she is on the phone." I suggested we go on, but just then she hung up the phone.
"Are you from New Orleans?" my determined spouse asked the lady behind the desk, the hospital administrator. Sure enough, she was, and an animated conversation ensued. She explained that she had come here for a camping trip several years ago, fell in love with the area, and eventually her parents and other family members moved here.
Howard mentioned that we had gone to church there in Lakeview Church which is in Metairie.
"You mean Lakeview Christian Center?" she exclaimed. That was her church, but we had moved by then. Turns out she knew our beloved pastor, the late Alan Poldson, and many other church friends we remembered from the years we had spent there.
All that led to Howard's business experiences in New Orleans. Our new acquaintance even remembered the radio jingle advertising their business. I laughed when she sang out the ditty, "You can call me Ray, You can call me Hey, but call us at 822-0118!"
Thursday, October 31, 2019
Tuesday, October 29, 2019
October Muse
"Mom," my daughter Julie spoke over the phone, "Would you and Dad like to go with us to Greenville today? It has lots of places to shop in a convenient smaller town."
Of course, we were up to the trip! She explained we would also stop for lunch, which sounded fine with us! Our path led us through the charming town of Jonesborough, where we slowed periodically for an intermittent parade of runners, decked out in various costumes and imaginative dress.
"Before we get on the road, you've got to see the Senior Center here," we were told. We had heard about it, but were not sure of its location. Were we in for an eye-opening sight! I expected an ordinary space in a downtown location, but this was almost majestic! A huge, new, attractive brick edifice on a hill with colonial touches stood welcome-like in front of us!
They were having a craft sale that day, with many shoppers inside. We picked up the brochures of events, qualifications, and lists of activities and games (my favorite was Scrabble) and had much to ponder as we progressed toward Greenville.
Actually, our driver and brother-in-law Steve took us on the scenic route, and soon we were ooh-ing and awe-ing over the absolute beauty of God's creation. The steep mountain roads and the colorful fall foliage blazing with tones of red, gold, yellow and vermillion with a backdrop of over-lapping rows of blue-grey mountains were impressive, to say the least!
At last we approached our destination, but not before we viewed the historic Tusculum University, the oldest institute of higher education in Tennessee, founded in 1794. The husband of one of our granddaughters attended there.
Finally we reached our destination where the shops were new and fun and where we found gifts for the birthday girl whose one-year-old party was the next day. Of course, I also found things I liked. All in all, it was a most enjoyable trip! Thanks, Steve and Julie!
Of course, we were up to the trip! She explained we would also stop for lunch, which sounded fine with us! Our path led us through the charming town of Jonesborough, where we slowed periodically for an intermittent parade of runners, decked out in various costumes and imaginative dress.
"Before we get on the road, you've got to see the Senior Center here," we were told. We had heard about it, but were not sure of its location. Were we in for an eye-opening sight! I expected an ordinary space in a downtown location, but this was almost majestic! A huge, new, attractive brick edifice on a hill with colonial touches stood welcome-like in front of us!
They were having a craft sale that day, with many shoppers inside. We picked up the brochures of events, qualifications, and lists of activities and games (my favorite was Scrabble) and had much to ponder as we progressed toward Greenville.
Actually, our driver and brother-in-law Steve took us on the scenic route, and soon we were ooh-ing and awe-ing over the absolute beauty of God's creation. The steep mountain roads and the colorful fall foliage blazing with tones of red, gold, yellow and vermillion with a backdrop of over-lapping rows of blue-grey mountains were impressive, to say the least!
At last we approached our destination, but not before we viewed the historic Tusculum University, the oldest institute of higher education in Tennessee, founded in 1794. The husband of one of our granddaughters attended there.
Finally we reached our destination where the shops were new and fun and where we found gifts for the birthday girl whose one-year-old party was the next day. Of course, I also found things I liked. All in all, it was a most enjoyable trip! Thanks, Steve and Julie!
Friday, October 25, 2019
Seeds
All through the late summer and early fall, a volunteer pumpkin plant has been spreading it's leaves and vines in sprawling growth outside our front porch. Actually, a good-size little pumpkin was picked for one of the grandchildren. Now another yellow-green orange orb is growing! All this with no planting!
This reminded me of what Jesus spoke in Luke 8:5-8 in the parable of the sower:
"A sower went out to sow his seed. And as he sowed, some fell by the wayside; and it was trampled down, and the birds of the air devoured it. "Some fell on rock; and as soon as it sprang up, it withered away because it lacked moisture. "And some fell among thorns, and the thorns sprang up with it and choked it. "But others fell on good ground."
Evidently, our two small pumpkins fell on good ground! How like this parable is to people today! They may hear the word, but promptly forget it! Others don't want to give up their life-style, which may be anything but God-pleasing. Some start out to serve God, but worldly temptations win over!
The Bible says the seed that fell on good ground believed the Word and brought forth a crop! Our children can be likened to a crop. The Bible says to bring up a child the way he should go, and when he is old, he will not depart from it. Proverbs 22:6. What better advice for our little punkins?
This reminded me of what Jesus spoke in Luke 8:5-8 in the parable of the sower:
"A sower went out to sow his seed. And as he sowed, some fell by the wayside; and it was trampled down, and the birds of the air devoured it. "Some fell on rock; and as soon as it sprang up, it withered away because it lacked moisture. "And some fell among thorns, and the thorns sprang up with it and choked it. "But others fell on good ground."
Evidently, our two small pumpkins fell on good ground! How like this parable is to people today! They may hear the word, but promptly forget it! Others don't want to give up their life-style, which may be anything but God-pleasing. Some start out to serve God, but worldly temptations win over!
The Bible says the seed that fell on good ground believed the Word and brought forth a crop! Our children can be likened to a crop. The Bible says to bring up a child the way he should go, and when he is old, he will not depart from it. Proverbs 22:6. What better advice for our little punkins?
Thursday, October 24, 2019
Polished!
Early this summer, my husband and I attended the annual "Herb Festival," in Ponca City, Oklahoma. It is probably the biggest outdoor festival of the area, and not only has plants and herbs, (thus the name), it is a huge display of crafts, homemade jelly, yard ornaments, outdoor furniture and any number of vendors with their goods.
We usually go just to stroll the walkways, enjoy the outing and perhaps meet friends and neighbors. I have bought many hanging ferns in the past, but nothing particularly spoke to me this time, until a cosmetic item caught my eye. Some young women had a booth where they were featuring a unique product for finger nails!
I was interested, because I knew a granddaughter in Tennessee had been marketing this novel article and had great results for her customers. I decided to try it. I took the packet home, but wasn't sure I could properly apply the nails (of real nail polish), so I put the item, still in the bag, aside.
Who knew that by the end of August I would be moving to Tennessee? I showed said granddaughter the packet, and she agreed to help me apply the nails. By this time it was late October, and another of my granddaughters was getting married. Her wedding was the perfect time for my nails to look their best.
I was amazed! It worked! She almost effortlessly applied the nail strips, carefully molding them to my nails. Although I was assured water wouldn't hurt them, I used protective gloves washing dishes that night. By the next morning, there was nothing for it but to get them wet in use, since we had to get ready for the trip to the wedding venue that day.
Visiting with other wedding goers that afternoon as we waited for pictures to be taken, and enjoying the parade of beautiful bridesmaids and handsome groomsmen, I couldn't help noticing the hands of my neighbor sitting nearby. She had the same nail-do I had! Even the shade of color was the same! (And she was quite a distinguished looking lady!)
The wedding was gorgeous, and seeing loved ones made every thing perfect. It has been almost a week since then, the couple are on their honeymoon, and my nails are still on! I guess you could say I nailed it!
We usually go just to stroll the walkways, enjoy the outing and perhaps meet friends and neighbors. I have bought many hanging ferns in the past, but nothing particularly spoke to me this time, until a cosmetic item caught my eye. Some young women had a booth where they were featuring a unique product for finger nails!
I was interested, because I knew a granddaughter in Tennessee had been marketing this novel article and had great results for her customers. I decided to try it. I took the packet home, but wasn't sure I could properly apply the nails (of real nail polish), so I put the item, still in the bag, aside.
Who knew that by the end of August I would be moving to Tennessee? I showed said granddaughter the packet, and she agreed to help me apply the nails. By this time it was late October, and another of my granddaughters was getting married. Her wedding was the perfect time for my nails to look their best.
I was amazed! It worked! She almost effortlessly applied the nail strips, carefully molding them to my nails. Although I was assured water wouldn't hurt them, I used protective gloves washing dishes that night. By the next morning, there was nothing for it but to get them wet in use, since we had to get ready for the trip to the wedding venue that day.
Visiting with other wedding goers that afternoon as we waited for pictures to be taken, and enjoying the parade of beautiful bridesmaids and handsome groomsmen, I couldn't help noticing the hands of my neighbor sitting nearby. She had the same nail-do I had! Even the shade of color was the same! (And she was quite a distinguished looking lady!)
The wedding was gorgeous, and seeing loved ones made every thing perfect. It has been almost a week since then, the couple are on their honeymoon, and my nails are still on! I guess you could say I nailed it!
Monday, October 21, 2019
Wedding!
The rain beat down on the windshield relentlessly. We were headed to the wedding of our granddaughter, Corrin, and her bridegroom, David. It would take more than two hours to get to the venue over a hundred miles away.
I know our beautiful bride was heart-broken when her plans for an outdoor wedding had to be revised. She had worried over it for days, but finally let it go and went on with a gorgeous indoor ceremony in the rustic, artistic, country venue named Ramble Creek.
We so much enjoyed seeing old friends and meeting new friends, who would become our granddaughter's family, too. Stories were told, including Corrin's dad telling recollections of funny things in his daughter's childhood. I couldn't tell, but I'm sure his eyes misted up a bit with the memories.
The wedding attendants were beautiful and handsome, but I only had eyes for our stunning granddaughter, Rachel, and grandson Reid, resplendent in his vesture.
My eyes misted up, too, as the couple took their vows, repeated their promises, and listened intently to wisdom from the officiant, the groom's minister father. Soon the vision of loveliness was sweeping down the aisle on the arm of her bridegroom, to our applaud and admiration.
What fun and joyful conversation was had at our table of eight family members while we welcomed the delicious dinner and wedding cake! All too soon, it was time to go, but not before the beautiful bride came to the tables with hugs and appreciation, followed by the Maid of Honor, her lovely sister, Rachel, hugging us, too.
The ride home in the cold, rainy dark was largely ignored as lighthearted conversation filled the car with warm memories of this special, unforgettable occasion!
I know our beautiful bride was heart-broken when her plans for an outdoor wedding had to be revised. She had worried over it for days, but finally let it go and went on with a gorgeous indoor ceremony in the rustic, artistic, country venue named Ramble Creek.
We so much enjoyed seeing old friends and meeting new friends, who would become our granddaughter's family, too. Stories were told, including Corrin's dad telling recollections of funny things in his daughter's childhood. I couldn't tell, but I'm sure his eyes misted up a bit with the memories.
The wedding attendants were beautiful and handsome, but I only had eyes for our stunning granddaughter, Rachel, and grandson Reid, resplendent in his vesture.
My eyes misted up, too, as the couple took their vows, repeated their promises, and listened intently to wisdom from the officiant, the groom's minister father. Soon the vision of loveliness was sweeping down the aisle on the arm of her bridegroom, to our applaud and admiration.
What fun and joyful conversation was had at our table of eight family members while we welcomed the delicious dinner and wedding cake! All too soon, it was time to go, but not before the beautiful bride came to the tables with hugs and appreciation, followed by the Maid of Honor, her lovely sister, Rachel, hugging us, too.
The ride home in the cold, rainy dark was largely ignored as lighthearted conversation filled the car with warm memories of this special, unforgettable occasion!
Thursday, October 17, 2019
Tennessee Trails
We thought we had pretty much seen the beauty of Tennessee, but yesterday our son-in-law took us on a tour that was majestic! Not that the mountains were glacier high, but they rose in rolling heights, neat-as-a-pin homes perched here and there. How did they find, build and live so far and high in these steep enclaves?
I was amazed at the bounty and beauty of perfectly maintained roads leading everywhere throughout the country side. Evidently, although many roads were narrow, leading off on a narrow path to a residence tucked out of sight, they were clean and well kept.
Further and further we drove as our route crisscrossed over hills and valleys, our guide pointing out where bears were seen in deep hollows, even having been found in yards, cars, or inside a house opening a refrigerator!
"There's where a flock of turkeys blocked the road," driver Steve pointed out. Or, "A bunch of deer ran in front of me there the other day," he went on. Then a majestic eagle floated overhead on gossamer wings lifted by the updrafts of air currents below.
"See that house over there?" our guide pointed out at a distant, mansion-looking residence on a hill. "Look back through the trees, and you can see where we live." Sure enough we could glimpse their roof on the other side of the valley. I had often noticed and wondered about the house on the hill separated by hills and mountains. Now I could see it for myself!
Our scenic view was endless, including dilapidated, weather-worn barns, old milk stalls, quirky collections of someone's desire, even a working water wheel beside a house and a metal box car at another.
Sheep and goats grazed and lolled on rounded hills, but we would have to wait for another excursion sometime, because sunset was upon us!
I was amazed at the bounty and beauty of perfectly maintained roads leading everywhere throughout the country side. Evidently, although many roads were narrow, leading off on a narrow path to a residence tucked out of sight, they were clean and well kept.
Further and further we drove as our route crisscrossed over hills and valleys, our guide pointing out where bears were seen in deep hollows, even having been found in yards, cars, or inside a house opening a refrigerator!
"There's where a flock of turkeys blocked the road," driver Steve pointed out. Or, "A bunch of deer ran in front of me there the other day," he went on. Then a majestic eagle floated overhead on gossamer wings lifted by the updrafts of air currents below.
"See that house over there?" our guide pointed out at a distant, mansion-looking residence on a hill. "Look back through the trees, and you can see where we live." Sure enough we could glimpse their roof on the other side of the valley. I had often noticed and wondered about the house on the hill separated by hills and mountains. Now I could see it for myself!
Our scenic view was endless, including dilapidated, weather-worn barns, old milk stalls, quirky collections of someone's desire, even a working water wheel beside a house and a metal box car at another.
Sheep and goats grazed and lolled on rounded hills, but we would have to wait for another excursion sometime, because sunset was upon us!
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