Family Life after Death of Love Ones.

 

 

I have not posted in a long time. My life has been in turmoil. First off My Mother die some years ago, changing my life forever. Then my Brother died, which change the dynamics of the family.  My Father died in 2019. This was the most difficult time for me. After his death I lost another Brother not in death but as to his decision not to being there for me. Unfortunately he also convinced some family member not to have any more connect with me. Some awful and hurting words from them were said to me. So these last two years have been very hard on me.

First off  My Mothers wishes. Mom was diagnosed with ovarian cancer in 2006. Began Chemo treatment then. At her request she wanted me to come and help out. For her and my dad, they need help with household things,treatment transportation and financial help. I Spent a lot of time with her. Needless to say there was a child at my home, which my husband was attending. My Husband was great. loosing his parents in the 80's and 90's my parents became his. That is the way they wanted it. Later in 2007 my parents moved in with us as she had another bout of Chemo and radiation treatments in Philly. I took her there stayed with them there and supported them. Plus learned how to  administrate the new treatments they offered her. During this time Mom asked me to do several things upon her death. She had told me some things that she had in place for me to complete her wishes. How my Father and older brother would need my help. I learned things that I really didn't know and my eyes were opened to the family dynamics.  After her death Dad told me their plans they discussed. This included Dads needs for financial and household assistance. He knew he would not be able to stay by his self.

We went back and force to his house and ours for months. I cleaned, cooked him meals and froze them. Made doctor appointments and took him to them. Managed his medicine and later his diabetes needs. Managed his bills  and paid them for him. It come time for him to move in with us. He was getting sicker and wasn't able to manage his diabetes. During the time he was at his house my middle Brother would call me and tell me to go help dad. He had no clue I was doing that. Also during the time Mom was sick with cancer he would tell me to stop helping them that they did not  need me help. Claiming that I was gold digging. Which was the furthest from the truth. I loved my parents very much and everything I did was out of Love for them. Even when my Mom asked me to continue to do things for her I told her of course I would she didn't even have to ask. I talked to Dad about selling the house he said no. When we asked him why he told me what Mom wanted for the house. That she wanted me to have it. They had decided before her death that would be done. So Dad asked how to do it. He got a lawyer and they  discussed his options . He decided on one and set it up. I tell you this cause that is what started the family breakup. Dad had a massive stoke in 2019 and with in 3 months was gone.

In 2015 My Middle brother was diagnosed with ALS. They  gave him 2 years. During that time he became a different person. I believe his thinking was infected. He began doing things uncommon for him. My Father said my brother was jealous of me. I really didn't understand that.  However, during a time after mom death he became different. In the beginning he was his old self, as I remember in my youth and younger adulthood. Sometime in the  late nineties, after we adopted our daughter he changed. Not sure why, Dad thought it was the competition with the grand kids.  Thinking back I think he might have been right. We did spend a lot of time with Mom and Dad. going on vacations together and  spending a lot of time. One thing that he didn't understand was that I had lost 4 children  in miscarriages and one in the tube. Lost the ability to have any biological children. Then had 3 adoptions fall through. One of them my parents went through with us. Right up to the day of birth, we all were ready to go to the hospital! When they called to say the birth father did not want the adoption to go through. it was hard on all of. My Mom took it very hard. We having gone through this before were able to understand the birth parents decision. It is hard to give up something that you carry in you for 9 months. This brought us closer to together. So when we finally adopted my parents were so attached to our child in so many ways. My Dad thought that my brother was jealous of that bond. I believe he could not understand it since he had never gone through anything like that. Having  5 biological kids of his own. He really did not believe in adoption. That became clear to us when he watched my daughter, even in his comments about her to the family. I just let it go and didn't ask him to help out anymore. Later he would tell us we were not invited to his house and not to have anything to do with he family, no gifts, letter or cards. Even then I respected his decisions. We did talk after Moms death but it was short lived.

My Brothers influence on his family hit once he died. Someone asked me to speak at the Funeral . I was not sure I should, being the view of some of the family on us. However my other brothers and Dad told me I should. So i did. Later it stabbed me in the back.  Then after my Dads death most of the family decided as my brother did in his life they wanted nothing to do with me , words repeated from their Dad, You are not part of our family. 

Now to tell you what happened during the last year of my brothers life. He apologized  to me and ask us to help his wife out with all she will need to do after his death. Told us he was worried about her. Wanted her to move on with life. Didn't think she would get the help she needed from others. We agreed to help her. My husband worked in the government just as he did and knew how to guide her through the process. We helped as much as we could and as much as she wanted. I Loved my brother very much and I do miss him. Even though we had moments in life we still were family in my eyes.

After my Father death it was hard on the family, maybe dealing with should haves. Whatever the reasons there was a lot of pain and things were said by family members. Not understanding the wishes of my parents was a big deal. Feelings of lost and what did they leave me came to a head. My living brothers got money from an insurance policy as well as items from the house, furniture and items. Steve and I gave them some money from our accounts and we paid for Dads funeral. Even with us doing that there was still problems. My baby brother disowned me a family. My Brothers wife and most of the family disowned us and told us not to come to their family gathering. We lost a lot.

My oldest Brother and I are great. We are talking a lot and seeing each other when we can.  I am living in the family home and feeling the presence of my parents all the time. I love that feeling. Hoping to be able to see the Folks on my Moms side more. Everyone on my Dads side are gone. My Mother has a brother.

Thinking back to my childhood, we had some hard times. No matter how you look at things our lives were good. We had great Parents who were young but saw that we had all we needed. Learned a lot in my life. How to manage disappointments and changes as we grew up. Finding our own way to live. In my thirties and fourtes  I learn to respect and love my parents. Learned that they went through a lot in their life. Even through it all they were givers and helpers. I choose to be that in life. As teenagers we tend to not understand things and feel everything is about us. When we age we start to see things differently. Maybe even understanding some things we didn't earlier. Wisdom is produced and becomes clearer in the mind. Understanding about decisions made in the past.

I Love my family, all of my family!! it makes no difference how they are feeling towards me. I am always their family and would be glad to return to be back in their lives. With all Forgiven. Death and lost of love ones gives way to all kinds of feelings. One day those feelings will correct themselves and all will be restored in the world or the next, if there is an after life.

 

Coffee time: It's a Family Affair!

Death in Families can be hard to handle. It can change the way family think about people. Also bring out painful emotional responses in them. There are feelings that one is trying to understand. Most to all sometimes folks just try to find a blame are cause and put it on someone else.

Miss understanding of the love ones life. Trying to deal with the death by excluding Folks in their lives. Perhaps they are reminders of the love one. Or maybe it is because they feel that it is too hard to see them at this time.

The worst thing is to be told that they just do not think you are family. Or that the person is not Family worthy for them. Whatever this reasoning, it comes back to how one is dealing with the Death.

In my Family in the pass two years we have lost two family members. One a Brother and a Father. My brother had several children and a Wife. It is hard on them, the children, to loose a parent. I know this cause I have lost both my Parents. We often think back on them and wonder why or what impact they had. About their lives, Were they right in their thinking, the things they did  was it for the right reason. Parents are humans and make  good and not so good decisions.

When I was a teenager my parent and I were at odds. This is part of growing independent. Year passed and all was forgiven and a new relationship forged.They were wonderful years spent with my parents. The same goes for Sibling. We grow apart, from being separated by the service or miles. Each family member start a family and decided how they want to raise the family. Words are said, relationships change. However there comes a time when wisdom kicks in and family is reunited. Forgiveness is given and Family life is restored.

This is a circle of life, It happens to every family no matter what. All these things are growing pain for a family unity. We all want to find ourselves and decided how we should live. The one thing that is a certain is the influence of our upbringing  by our love ones impact on our lives.

I have learned a lot from my Parents and Grandparents. This is called Wisdom from the elders. We all receive this gift. It is how we use it that molds us.

Tuesday Morning Show: New Products and Family updates.

Yeah, it is winter in my Neck of the woods. Winter sports, Winter Driving and Winter Yard work. we haven't had a lot of Snow yet and the ice is just starting. My Dad Had a fall last September, He is doing good now. However we have Therapist coming to the house for him. So, I have to make sure  the walkway and steps are safe for them.  Clearing them off has been a priority. appointment to Doctors, have been trying also during the winter. Cold and Rain make slick roads. For some reason Folks around this Tri State area, do not know how to drive in this weather. A lot of accidents. Watching out for the other guys came be stressful driving. Being from NewYork State ,living in Colorado, and living in the BlackForest in Germany I have learned how to drive in this stuff.

Hubby is doing okay now. We have some Medical issues in 2018. However seems to be make a good recovery.  He is getting ready to retire next year. That means we a looking at our Financial portfolio Looking pretty good at this time.

I am doing good. trying to change some things to live a healthier life. Recently I received a Ninja Foodi Pot. It is so good. Besides being a great way to cook, It save us money on electricity. Not having to heat the oven up for just the three of us. You can see some recipes and find out more about this on my Kitchen Blog and Review blog. My Blood pressure was getting high! So, I started this new regiment. I take 120 Life. It is a drink that help in lowering the BP. so far it has worked. another thing I am doing is taking some supplements from our Business Melaluca. I have a 3 month trail to see if it help with Blood Sugar and Blood Pressure.  Been Walking which has help a lot with the Blood Sugar. I will be posting my progress on my fitness blog.

We have been doing well with our Green impact. Cleaning out the house and making sure our decision are based on the impact on Green Living. You can check out of progress on the Healthy Living blog.

Now that things have slow down some at home I am back to blogging. The past 3 years have been very trying. Between my Dad moving in and Weddings, deaths, illness and life changes, It has occupied my life.

Stay tune for more post in this new year 2019. This will be a great year for us!!

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Wednesday News. Learning Curve

It has been a  interesting week. Even with my Nursing knowledge there is a lot that I continue to learn. When My Mom had cancer I learn all about the kind she had and the treatments. What can be done in the new technology age. Unfortunately she was in Stage 4 and not much could be done for her.

My Father stated having  noticeable TIA ( Transit Ischemic Attacks) In 2013. At first we thought they were just Senior moments caused by Dementia. However we learned in 2015 they were TIA's. The MRI's showed the previous damages. Now we know. I remember back in the 1990's. Mom had told me something was wrong with Dad. He was having some Memory problems. Back then they did not know what it was. The problem with TIA's is that they do not show up in the Brain as Damages for years. One can go a long time not having one and then have an episode. The episode only last last than 15 minutes and if no one is close to them you would never know.  It could be a sudden mixing up words ,  Blurriness in one or both eyes,  and twitching of the eyes or mouth, or a numbness in a hand or foot. Even going to the hospital ER  it is hard to determine  what happened until a acute Ischemic stroke happens. Only then can the pieces be put together.

The Neurologist explained the cycle. Telling us what happened and that there really isn't much one can do. Diet and Exercise can help with the blood flow. My fathers mobility was not affected. He still can get  around well. Since he has be with us his Blood sugar and Chems are all normal. No more Swings. My Mother told me I need to take care of Dad and that he would need a lot of help. I believed she knew within her heart.

These TIA's seem to running in the family. Can start as early as age 45. My Dad's Biological father had them and died at the age of 49 of a Stroke. Granny told me a long time ago, that He was in the hospital a lot in the final 2 years. It must run in the men. Cause Dads Half Brothers had problem also. some became hermits. Due to the uneasiness to be around people. Dad has some of that. Although He enjoys being around us and some family members. It seem like the TIA are mostly in the Brocia and Wernicke's part ( Left side Anterior and Posterior part of brain,) These normal cause problems with Speaking, Finding and Forming Words.

Once a Ischemic Stroke happens, the brain can have an Cerebral Infarction in the region. These are Blood Clots that move from the original stroke. Not a New Stroke. They are in the same family as TIA's just a different cause. TIA's can and do lead to a major stroke down the line. As to when that happens is unknown.It can happened shortly after a TIA or months even years later. But if you think you are having them go to the ER. Sometime you can have two the more in the same day and if you are somewhere they can monitor you  there is help.

Education is the key to understanding the body. With today's Technology and Internet help one to live longer and prevent  some things. Having knowledge reduces the Stress. This is a good thing.

My Dad has Aphasia and bi-product of the  Brocia Stroke and TIA's. He is making a good recovery and retraining the brain to store things in a new location. Even though he has had to relearn some things. He still does not like talking on the phone and uncomfortable around large crowds. I do not know if that will ever go away, since he has been that way for a long time. He will now be living with my family and that is okay. My Mom knew this and prepared me for it. For that I am thankful.

About 8 years ago my Mother told me I would have to take care of Dad. She stated that He has some problems and  will need help. At the time I didn't understand this. However now I can see it. The Doctor told me that Dad have been having Problems for a long time and he believes he has been having these Brain attacks for sometime. I think my Mother saw the changes in him. She then made sure I would take care of him after her passing.
 
I spoke with my Dad some seven years ago about this. He said he has always been a recluse. Most of his life he depended on Mom to help him out of it. She would plan the activities, encourage him to do things and he loved doing it for her. I am now that person to keep him from the tendency of  falling into that mode again. I try to get family members to visit and take him to as many family gatherings as a can. We take him out to visit folks and to activities going on. I try to take as much stress from him by managing his daily activities. He really like this. We talk about bills and other things that need to be done. He is still in charge of things, I just do as he wishes. Keeping his mind active is a must.

With the Aphasia one needs to keep the mind active. Also the folks around him need to give him time to responded to questions. If he wants to talk let him find his own words. Sometime there are pauses cause he is looking for the word to express his thought. The learning curve for us is also challenging. We must learn to be patient and listen closely.  We can sometimes help him find the word if we are listening and following he thoughts. I have learned to do this well. Never giving him the word but repeating what he has already said. This seem to help him retain the thought and find the path to the word. Even going through the path in a back door. The brain can find the words.  We had been working on his address which he has had trouble remembering, and the names of his children. However he is doing better now and retaining the information for a longer time. Even through his address will change we will continue to work on that part of the memory. Because the address seems associated with a lost, It is harder for him a want to retain it. The home in his words  was my Mothers house. That is how he perceives it. Most of the things in the home was hers and still is. He calls it "The Event" and wishes not to remember it. So I am sure things that are associated with her are not on his important to remember list. We do talk about the positive things about mom. This way he can associate things with her that are pleasant.

My Husband and I take care of the House. Maintenance and taxes. We have tried to get dad to help but he wants nothing to do with it. He just wants to give the stuff away. So we are in the process of doing that.  The Family will take what they want and we will donate the rest. It is hard to see things go, but it is a process and doing it now is better. I think it will help Dad Move on and let go of somethings. All of this has made me think it is time to do the same at my home. We hang on to many things that will be meaningless later in life.  The old saying... You can't take it with you.... is so true and may I add.... No one wants it after you are gone.  It only causes division and pain. We went through this with my Husband Parents and there home. So I do have some experience on this.

In conclusion, We have learned a lot in the past twelve years. I wish to pass it on to you. If you are going through any things like this, I hope this help you maintain you sanity.  Not there yet. Remember this post to help you when you become a caretaker of your love one.  You would be surprised how many of us are out there.

Police Week 2015

EOW 5-16-1961

Every year on or about the 15th of May, we remember the fallen Police/ Peace officers. In 1962 the President of the United States, J. F. Kennedy sign a  proclamation that this day would be set aside to honor the fallen officers who gave their lives in service  in Law Enforcement. Today we refer to it as The National Peace Officers' Memorial Week. We set aside time in the week to remember and honor the fallen. In DC there are week long activities to help the children and families of the fallen both current and pass years

It is hard to do this in just one week. So through the year there are camps and other support group to assist in the coping of the loss. As an Survivor I can tell you how hard it is. As only a child of 7 when he was taken, I never thought about it. But once I was older and realize that he never saw my brother born, or saw us graduate from school, college, get married and see the great grandchildren born. It became clear how the sudden death by a criminal hand affect the family left behind.

I am grateful for the COPS and American Police Hall of Fame and Museum. Though them I have been able to be involved in activities and deal with the lost of love ones.

 My Mother was very involved in the FOP Aux and well as the Concerns of Police Survivors. She was in at the beginning of the COPS. Setting up chapters and assisting the fallen families in the Court and at home. I miss her in so many ways. However she prepared me to be a survivor and for that I am grateful.

Less we forget them so they did not die in vine but in service to their towns, states, counties  and country. In this day of unrest for the Police departments. Their jobs are get harder and harder to do. The Law seems to be for the criminal more than the people hurt or killed. Police/Peace Officers jobs are in jeopardy. However we still have dedicated  People who continue to service our Villages ,Towns and States. We will always remember the ones who gave their lives to Protect our Freedoms. Thank you for your service and In remembrance of the officers families.... We will always be there for the sacrifice  of your family.

Blogging About Around the Home

Well I have been thinking about sprucing up the yard. With My daughter away in college I have time on my hands. Hubby and I are planning a few trips in the next few months. We have had some changes in the home, with health issues as well.

We took down the Pool Last fall and hubby contracted a Rare Bacterial infection. The Doctors believe it was from some spores from the ground dirt. I am not convinced of this however, we decided to do some changes to that area. Will not be putting the pool back up this year. Instead we will be putting in a deck that will support the pool. This will cover up any spores in the ground and limited the contact to the skin.

The flower beds are also getting a new makeover. We decided to plant some azaleas  there. Less maintenance and plenty of color. I have some roses which will remain there. I will be posting the garden and yard projects on my Garden blog ( see the side bar link).

As for the family life, Many changes have occurred. Our daughter has located her Birth Mother and Father.  Now she is learning about them. Yes it is hard on us. As with most children, they grow up and leave home . Finding new friends and starting they own life is all natural. It would be nice to live closer to her.

 A new nephew  named Miles has come into the family.. He is such a cutie as most babies are. Critter is getting older and more interested in Sports and other things. He tells us he  still loves to Cook, and wants to be a Scientific  Chef. That is one who creates  recipes for others, as he puts it. We still see them, but not as much as I would like.

So I thought I would give you this update on our lives at home. As you can see we are still growing and I am sure there will be plenty to write about this spring and summer. Be sure to follow my On the Go and Garden blogs. As well as the Healthy blog. For I will be posting some interesting things on them.[ all the links are on the sidebar].

Now I need to work on the kitchen blog and start adding some Delicious  recipes. With outdoor cooking getting ready to start who knows what great dishes will be there. Oh and I am thinking about another give away. stay turn.....

Monday News.. A Busy Household.

Our household has been very busy with Medical issues. Hubby had Surgery last week and is not having a great time. I do not think he realized how much it would effect his life. I have been very busy being a caregiver. I do not mind it however, It is time consuming.
I realized how much he does for our daughter and around the house. He Helps out a lot. I am bless to have a husband like him. So, to say the least I have been very busy no time to blog.

Since last blogged, we have had time with family. Went out to dinner a couple weeks ago with Critter and family. Critter is so funny. I really have fallen in Love with that Boy! Eat at Olive Garden in DC and he was so talkative. We were sharing making a banana dessert. It was a very easy recipe. Take bananas and slice in half longways and then again in half crossways. making four pieces, roll then in brownsugar and brown in a little butter. Melt some dark chocolate in a double boiler. place cooked banana on a plate and then drizzle melted chocolate over then. Sprinkle with some sliced almonds. After given the recipe Critter said " I haven't a clue what you said". We all chuckled and Mike said It sound easy we will try it. Kids really say the darnedest things.

On Tuesday hubby had his surgery. I have been very busy. Can not leave him alone. He still wants to do things he just should not do. I have to run out daily to get ice for the ice machine given to us by the surgery clinic. We need to keep it on must of the time. with the pain meds and the ice, his pain seem to be under control. He can not drive, that means I have to take daughter to work and him to appointments. He has a lot of them. One today with a pulmonary doctor and two on Wednesday (both out of town).

He still needs kidney surgery and possible knee surgery. Now we are just praying that the kidneys do not get in distress before she can schedule surgery.

so that is what has been going on in this household. What been going on with you?

Spring Break-Headed to the Beach.

So, the time is here for a family Trip. It is spring break and we are headed to Virginia Beach. Weather is suppose to be in the 80's tomorrow and then in the 60's until Saturday. Easter Sunday back into the 80's. Granny is in her mid Nineties. Looking forward to seeing Dad.
Hope you all have a great Easter and can enjoy the time with your family.

A Daughters Blog.

My daughter has a blog as some of you know. She is always thrilled to get comments and Followers. I thought for this Thursday Friends post I would Direct my visitors to her blog.

A little about Thursday Friends and Giveaways; Hosted by Tammy's two cent and Menopausal new Mom. there are two links on their sites one for new followers and one for giveaways. be sure to link up there.

Today and the next few day my daughter will be featuring her view on our NSL vacation trip. Travel over there and give her a shout. I am teaching her how to follow back so leave your link with her.
Here is the Link:

Ramblings From Lyd

Monday's News-Holidays and Family

Our House was busy over the weekend! Friday I started out the day with a doctors visit. The Othro Doctor had me back off the Physical Therapy for my Arm. It was making the pain worst and aggravating a tendon. Today it does feel better, that pain is easing up. He stated sometimes the therapy is too rough on some folks. I will tell you I hurt more each time I went! So this Break is a good one.
After the doctors, daughter and I went to the Mall to return something......and of course we shopped. Bought some bathroom towels, and a bathing suit for me. Daughter bought a picture frame for her boyfriend. I purchased a old clock and had it engraved. You know how I love Vintage things! It was on sale at a great price and traveling this summer gave be a great idea. You will see it later in a icon.
I needed to get my Sunglasses adjusted so I stop by the eye shop. The Lady was so rude. It was like we were Invading her space! Now I tell you, thing are pretty bad when a service person make you feel like that! I was still nice to her, however the service was not good.
Saturday, we finished cleaning up the backyard and took a swim in the pool. We have a solar heated so we went to the pool store to purchase a new hose. The squirrels chewed through the old one. I prepared the food for the family get together on Sunday.
Sunday the 4th of July......We had family over for a cook out and family fun. Then we went to the Fireworks on the Fort/Post. There was a fair there as well. The kids did some things like, Balloon bounce, Rock Climbing and riding a train. The Music was live and not bad! Fireworks were fantastic! We got home around 11:00 pm and the girls went swimming for a while. Hubby and I fell into bed.....We were very exhausted.
Today Hubby is off , so we will relax and take in a move and enjoy the day together.
How was you Weekend?

Monday's News- Sad mixed with New

If you stopped by over the weekend, thank you for your condolences. We lost our bird on Saturday to death(see post "Saying goodbye"). I really miss him this morning, he would be chirping and singing alone with the radio. Loved Classical and Golden Oldies, "B" would just get louder as to say "I sing them best and I can mimic that instrument". At Christmas time He loved "Jingle Bells" as well as any sound with bells in it. It has hit me more than the others, I think. I was at home with him all day. He was great company. My daughter wants to get another one, I just can't do it. We had a another bird in Germany in the 80's, when he died we didn't get another until over 15 years later. Lyd there is just no hope for you while living in this house.

Hubby and I went out Saturday to look at floors and doors. I was surprised that I actually found a flooring I adore. Looking on the web before we went helped in know what kind to look for. We want to be very Green in our decision. Hubby likes the cork flooring, not a fan of it. Although I did like some of what I saw. Now Bamboo flooring hasn't been in my choices ,I just did not like the looks of it. We bought the samples of the cork and bamboo home with us to see in all the lighting.
After the stores, went out to eat at "The Green Turtle". It is a sports bar and eatery. Televisions are right at your table and one can dial up what game to watch. The food was okay, but I loved watching the Washington Nationals and LosAngeles Dodgers teams play baseball. It was a good game, went into extra ending and Washington Nationals won! I really loved baseball, we need to go to some games this season. We have the Orioles and Nationals arenas close to us.

Sunday it rained most of the day. Didn't go out. I was up at 3 am could not go back to sleep. Watched a Knitting program on the TV. Lyd wants to learn how the Knit so, I stated teaching her. I'm knitting a pillow cover at the present time. Lyd is just learning to knit with the needles, casting on and Knitting the first row. Knitting takes some time to grasp. She has a Yearly physical today and ask me to bring the needles so she can work on casting and knitting.
How was your weekend?

Wordless Wednesday-Yes I'm Auntie E

Interested in Wordless Wednesday visit

Wordless Wednesday Headquarter
To link up

you can also visit, Seven Clown Circus for Wordful wednesday


Yes I'm Auntie E, I have five nephews, three Nieces and one great Nephew. I thought I would introduce you to some of my other Nephews and Niece. Most of you have meet critter he is always featured on this blog. Critters is my Great nephew. His photo is on the sidebar back widget and my widget for this blog.
My older brother has one child, a boy. The middle brother has 5 children, four boys and one girl. Baby brother has two children, both are girls. Critter is from my baby brothers oldest girl.

These are some of my middle brothers kids.

This is Mark, he is the little one.

Scottie is the fourth born.

Mike just graduated high school and I heard is moving out soon.
He is the third born.

Michelle is the oldest and only girl. She has a business. My brother told me her photo is on a billboard and he tells everyone to check it out.
I haven't seen it in person yet.

Introduction Time.

This is my daughter, she has a blog. Her blog Ramblings from Lyd is mostly of photos she has taken and her thoughts on them.
She would like to have some visitors who will leave a comment for her. As a New blogger it is always nice to know if folks like your page.
Lyd just turned 16, loves to take photos, write and read books. Here's where a can brag, she wrote and published a book while in fifth grade. Involved in the Young Authors group. Of course we thought it was good. Have several copies on our bookshelf. Perhaps I can get her to post some text from it.
Go check out her blog. Become a follower and give her a word of encouragement. Who knows she could be a famous author some day.

A Makeover

This bed is the one my daughter wanted for her room. There was a sleep number bed in it but, she felt it took up too much room. We told her we would have to sell her bed before buying a new one. Well, yesterday we sold the sleep number bed. So last night we drove to IKEA. Now the new bed is in pieces to be put together by me,of course! I was just too tired to start last night. As a rule there is no TVs in the Bedrooms. However the Guestroom has one. My daughter got to sleep in the guestroom and watch a little. I do not know if that was a good thing. Kind of like staying at a hotel, did she get any sleep? I'm off to work on the bed. Tomorrow I will post the photos of the process.

Monday's News-Weekend Update.

We had a great Christmas and weekend. First of all Santa brought me a Large Picture of himself. He is Checking the list, Checking it twice.... Oh I just love that song! Well it will go up in the Santa room.
I Love the smell of Lavender, so hubby and daughter got me a set of lavender products. After opening the gift hubby says "Now you can smell like an old lady". I just laughed at him, because he has to smell it and if it reminds him I'm an old lady , then he must be an old man.

Now if you have been to my Kitchen you know my joy of cooking. My Daughter gave my a new Apron, I collect them. Have a collection from all over the world. Even places I haven't been but want to go. Some of my Holiday aprons I have made. One of my aprons I have had for forty years! Oh yeah I still wear it in the summer.

A new laptop was given by my hubby. That was a surprise because Hubby usually gives me refurbish ones. He being a computer geek and all. My old laptop was on its' last breath, it was also on its' second life after death! I will have plenty to do the next week,transferring files.

Went to my dad's on Saturday. Arrived rather late the traffic was very bad! What normally takes us 3 to 4 hrs took 0ver 7 hour. We watched Polar Express on an old DVD player I brought along, It helped us stay awake when the sun went down . Love the movie and haven't seen it for a few years. Still a Great show!

Went to Church and saw Granny, she is 92 and still going strong. We will go over to their house today. So Tell me something You received for your Holiday.

Our Stockings Hung with Care.

These are some of the stockings we cherish. Not all of them are on the mantel. However they all have sentimental value.

1. This one was made by my daughter when she was 2 years old.
Every year I bring it out a hang it on the basement door.

2. A musical one, from the Grinch who stole Christmas.
I love the song "You're a mean one Mr. Grinch".
That is what it plays, every year this one is placed on my Pantry door.
It is played each time we go into the pantry.
Oh, yes that is a snowman in side.

3. This was Hubby's first stocking for his Hanukkah bush.
That is what I call the Tree. He only wanted lights on it.
This one comes out each Chanukah and then is placed on the mantel.
It reminds us of Peace to all.

4. I made this one in 1990. The pattern can be found in the
Christmas with Southern Living 1990
Book on page 91.
Each year I put this one on the mantel.
It reminds me of childhood things and Granny.
I used the lace from my Granny's sewing things.
She passed away in 1989. As a Seamstress she had a lot things.
I always remember her when I see the stocking.

It's Monday- My Weekend fun.

We had a great weekend. With the Holiday extended time it was a long weekend. Thursday we had family over for turkey and the fun.

Here is a photo of the family.

The kids decorated Gingerbread men and watched the New DVD "Santa Buddies". They really enjoyed it!
Black Friday my beloved hubby and daughter got up at 4:30 am and went shopping. Yes they did! Now I can not get her up early on any regular day. Black Friday must hold that secret, I need to find it a unleash it on this teenager weekly. As for me I stayed in bed, no shopping for me. I will be making all my gift giving this year. My sister-n-law went Black Friday shopping for the first time. She told me she will never do it again! it was just too crazy. She did manage to get some good things, however she also is not an earlier riser. I told her a was going to blog what she said, one has to be careful around me I BLOG! Most of the time they do not mind.
Saturday the family went to The Festival of Trees at the Maryland Fair grounds. Pictures will be posted on Wednesday. It was a wonderful time.
Sunday off to Church, My daughter's boy friend came along. He had never been to our church, it is a gigantic church. Over ten thousand Members. After church we met with the family briefly then of the See "New Moon".
My daughter tried to see it last weekend but it was sold out. So we though we would take it in on Sunday. I really enjoyed this movie. I did see the first one, However haven't read the books. Now my daughter have read the books several times over. I thought it was very good and now I know why my hubby's body temp is always warm. Why he goes crazy on full New moons. We have always joked about he hot temp body. We had a water bed in Colorado and I never need a heater for it, just let him go to bed 30 minutes before me and the temp is just right. Back to the movie, Bella is now getting to know her old friend from when she was little,Jacob. Edward has left her so now she is trying to move on. Jake(as Bella calls him) and Bella get close and then things start getting strange. Now she is starting to believe all those fairy tails are not really made up stories. Can you imagine a world where Fairy Tails are Real?

Wordless Wednesday-Before/After

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Seven years in the making.

Oh Happy Day! This week See!!

Now for the rest of the story.....

Parenting 115- The Teen years

Remember "Wizard of Oz"? Dorothy wanted to run away because things were not going her way. She was a young teen. I use to love that movie... Now here I am a Mother to a teen. Who like Dorothy wants to spread her wings. Go the that land of Oz. What happening you ask, okay pretend you asked. She is trying to Be 30! I can not talk to her with out backlash, she's nice when she has an agenda. However if I try to show her the proper way to do something I get put down,yelled at and disrespected . Don't get me wrong my daughter is a good and kind girl to most people outside this family. Well liked by most people. It is just us that she is disrespectful to.
I used to talk to Mom about these issues, because I was not the greatest teen in my eyes. Mom use to tell me I was not bad by today standards. She was right, back in the 60's Most kids had respect just wanted to be grown up and make their own choices. We wouldn't dare talk back for the belt or some sort of punishment would be implemented right away. The Feeling I have is,in today's world teens are so exposed to TV and movies that make back talking normal! In my mind these promoted, and still do, disrespectful behavior to family members. It really hurts me when my daughter acts like this. I just want to get rid of every thing she has and block the TV,Computer, take away the cell phone and some times just run away and let her fend for herself.
I really do not want to run away just make the Hurt feelings go away. I love her and my husband very much! Always wanting them to have a good life with me. Just never thought raising a teen could be so hard.
I took Psychology 101 in college as well as Juvenile Behavior. Parenting teen stuff was never covered. I need a Parenting 115 class, you know the 1 for the first of it's kind and the 15 to represent the age of the first encounter. So in the comments section we can now start class, Welcome to Parenting 115.....the floor is open....

Ramblings of My Thoughts

I have for some time visited Blogs who participate in this Meme. Today I just wanted to ramble so thought I would join in all the Randomness going on. If you need to read more random thoughts go to TheUnmom

What a weekend I had! daughter not felling well, invited to nieces for a meal, all the saga of that trip, cooking for Rosh Hashana. Attending a small festival, wanting to pick apples...and on and on.
I use to be able to talk to Mom about everything. We just rambled on about the happenings.
Friday started out good. I cooked and cooked. The food was great according to the family. We brought in the Jewish New Year like never before. Change is good and I really need that!
Saturday I was so excited to see my niece. I hadn't seen her new house so that was something I was looking forward to. When we arrived ,my nephew and his wife pulled up be hind us. I was so pleased. Hadn't seen them in a long time. He had some surgery and I was eager to find out about it. I really do not know his wife well,but I was eager to find out about her comings and goings. I thought what a great time I would have. My brother and his younger family arrived. I was not expecting them either. My thought was great I'll get to talk to him finally. I had been trying to talk to him for weeks, he never would return my calls. so I hugged him and said" You need to call me More" in a lighthearted way. He did not take it well and lashed out at me. My heart sunk and I really just wanted to leave. I stayed but did not get to talk with any one like I wanted to. All I really want is for my brother to give me some respect and show he loves me. I do not think I will ever see that.
Daughter was not felling well so no picking apples on Sunday. Hubby and I did go to the end of Summer jam. I got to see people I haven't seen for a year. That was great.
Daughter finally got into see a doctor. I really do not know why I bother to go. They did very little and say she just has a virus. Huh, I knew that! If it doesn't get any better in two week bring her back. Well now I know (the new government medicine rules) if she is sick for longer than two weeks, take her to the doctors.So no school for two days and then back to the books. I am keeping my distance, do not want that virus.
I spoke with Dad last night is was great! I Love talking to him. We could have talked all night. I use to have all nighters with him. Mom would say aren't you to going to bed. I would laugh. I still love talking to him.
Granny took a fall over the weekend. she is doing okay. Did not go to the doctors, I don't blame her.
My baby brother, well he's not a baby, as you can see. Is still struggling in the job market. He is in to every thing. trying New stuff all the time. Now he is looking into selling some kind a new heat pumps. I would like to see more of him but we live so far away.
Oh, my County Taxes are due and now I will have to go pay them. A new building they are now in. I was thinking about joining the indoor pools. since the association is in the same building. that way I can still do my water aerobics in the winter.
thanks for reading this rambling and pertaining to be my Mom. Have a nice day. Oh yeah you can comment,my Mom would.