Friday Friday Falderal, June 29, 2012

No matter how I try, getting this done weekly is beyond me. Oh, well, let's start, shall we?

Here in the Great Atlantic Northeast, we are facing hot, humid weather. If you get frizz from humidity, how do you deal with it?

I've been waiting for quite some time for a Keratin Express treatment but my daughter hasn't found the time for me! The greyer I get the curlier I get so I just let my hair dry naturally.

Getting your hair cut/styled - drudgery or enjoyment?

As my niece is my stylist, it is a sheer joy. She is such a great person and I love spending time with her. Also, her children, three and two years old, get to know their dear Auntie g!

This one may seem strange but I want to know: I read that, in some places, it was unusual, when someone dies, to have an open casket at the wake. Where you live, do you have wakes? Open casket or closed? Do you have a repast (meal for those who join you in mourning) after the burial?

Unless the deceased was disfigured by an accident or whatever, we have open casket although cremation is becoming more and more popular with a memorial service instead of a wake and funeral. We do have a repast either at a restaurant or at home where it is usually catered. If the memorial service is at my church, and some other churches, a number of people will cook and serve the people who attend.

This week, I saw the movie "Brave" which takes place in Scotland. I love, love, love Scottish, Irish and English accents. I also love the Kenyan accent. Is there an accent you love to hear?

Himself and I are trying to figure out where to retire. Where we live is simply too expensive. Tell me where you think we out to go and why.

Life is never boring around here and there is rarely a lack of things to do. As I type this, I am waiting for my mother-in-lve to finish having her hair done at the beauty parlor. She is no longer driving and we, my brother-in-law, husband and I take turns driving her where she needs to go. I guess that would be called the "circle of life." Mom took care of us all these years and now it is time to help her.

Any ideas on what to do with Isabella in this heat? We will probably go to the library this afternoon. They have a nice children's room with toys and it seems to be the place to be on hot days. Still, I would like to find somewhere else that is cheap or free.

The weekend is upon us. Any plans? The only thing I know we are doing is praying for missionaries in what we call "creative access" countries (those countries which do not allow missionaries) with friends. Other than that, we will see.

Bless you, g

Friday Falderal June 9, 2012

It's been a while but here is another edition of the Friday Falderal! Won't you share your answers?

How do you feel about summer? Do you enjoy hot weather? Summer is my nemesis. Himself wants to move to Florida but two or three months of heat and humidity is about all I can take! Hopefully, The Girl will give me a Keratin Express treatment tomorrow to fight the frizz.

Burgers, hot dogs or not thank you? It's that time of year in the great Atlantic northeast where we are bbq'ing and the burgers and "dogs" are on the grill. I'll indulge in a hot dog maybe three times a year - can you say mystery meat? Burgers on occasion. I'd rather just eat salad and add a protein like chicken or feta cheese.

Swim or air conditioning? Anyone who has been visiting here for a while know that I do NOT like being wet! No, I didn't nearly drown when I was a child. I have no idea why this is but bathing is the extent of my wetness factor. I'll take air conditioning over the pool.

You just found out your niece, her husband and their child are stopping by for a visit and it is dinner time. You have only enough for your little family. What do you do? My grandmother always said you can always add pasta to the pot. If you have a small steak, either put it in the fridge or cook it and slice it really thin and make a steak salad! Feeding people is what I do. Bring it on.

Impromptu or planned get togethers? Impromptu are the best for me. I tend to get anxious if I think about HAVING to be somewhere.

What's up with you? Hope all is well in your world. Blessings from the great Atlantic northeast.

Falderal Friday

Ah, Friday. It has been a longish week but not bad. My car still needs repairs but I am thankful for how much is within walking distance of my home.

After the A to Z Challenge, I am back to my old habit of slacking off but will try to keep up with the falderal.

What do you think of Mother's Day? (heavy sigh) I don't like being told when to appreciate people. Each time I speak with my mom I end the call with, "I love you." We don't give Christmas and birthday presents but we give I love you presents throughout the year. Not expensive, fancy things but things we really think the other will like. I give chocolate and biscotti and I have received a water filtering system (Brita). As for Mother's Day around here, I appreciate it when Himself makes dinner for me. However, I feel obligated to go to his Mother's place.

Do you have a bedtime routine? I have to confess that I watch way too much tv and stay on the computer too late into the night. I don't sit all evening...well, I do but I don't. I'll get up and floss. Then I'll get up and brush my teeth. Then I'll take my evening meds. I try to read a bit and then I'll pray. Hopefully, I sleep. It hasn't been very easy to fall asleep lately.

Is there a personal behavior you are trying to change? In the last ten years or so, I have been seriously trying to curb my tongue. Last night, I asked a friend if she had noticed a change and she said yes. She also said she can see when I am straining to say something and holding back! The biggest thing I want to work on now is my tone of voice. I can say something kindly and the same things can be said with a sting. I want to be kind.

Early morning or late night? Believe it or not, when I was in high school, I woke up way earlier than I needed to. Now, I would stay up until two or three AM if I could. Those mellow hours are lovely to me.

Have to go so that is it for now. Please let me know your answers. It is great to get to know you better! blessings, g

X Marks the Spot...

I lost my whole post!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Will try to redo later.....ugh.

Deep breath...X Marks the Spot for the Friday Falderal, a meme made up by moi! Please join in...

Have you ever participated in a blog challenge where you blog daily with topics starting with each letter of the alphabet with only most Sundays off? This is my third to last post in the A to Z Challenge and it has been a mind stretching ride!

Bloggers, have you ever met a blogging buddy? I started blogging on Windows Live Spaces which no longer exists. It was a great community. I have been blessed to meet four fellow bloggers in person and several on the phone and via Skype. I have never been disappointed!

You can vacation anywhere in the world without having to actually travel there and back (yes, I am a fan of the original Star Trek) - where would you like to go. I've had a yen to go to Scotland! I love the green of nature and their accents are delightful.

Do you do animal prints? Anyone who knows me that I dig zebra and have since I was a small child when my grandmother made fake fur coats for us. I have a zebra jacket, purse (not to be worn with said jacket) and a friend gave me a furry zebra lap blanket.

Who would you rather have for president, Yoda or Obi Wan Kenobi? It's a toss up. They both have presidential characteristics. Yoda would show that we are a diverse nation but Obi Wan would be easier to understand. Oh, the choices we have to make!

Join the Company Girl blog hop if you like!  

Lunacy Friday

Instead of Friday Falderal, we are doing Lunacy Friday. Why? Because I want to do the Friday Falderal and today's challenge letter is "l" and lunacy is a synonym for falderal so, so, so there. If not the spirit of the law of the a to z challenge, I have the letter of the law on my side!

Therefore, let the questions begin!

For those of you doing the a to z challenge, we are almost halfway there! How are you holding up? So far so good. I have visited quite a few sites and have noticed that a majority of them are by "authors." Have you noticed that?

There was an ad campaign a while back that said "Just do it!" What would "it" be to you? For me, it would be just be honest! I hate dishonesty. If I find you in a falsehood even once, I doubt I will ever completely believe you again. Trust is not something easily won back.

Italian food, Chinese or Peruvian? I just discovered Peruvian and it is delicious so I would have to go with Peruvian for now.

How do you feel about clowns? Oh, they scare me! I don't know if it is the fact that they are always in disguise or if it is because of scary movies.


Would you consider crossing an ocean on a cruise ship? I ask this because my parents leave on a transatlantic cruise in a couple of days. I don't know if I could handle that long on the open sea. Having the 100th anniversary of the sinking of the Titanic observed is NOT helping!

Looking forward to your answers! Have a great weekend, g

Friday Falderal

A few years back, I started a meme called Friday Falderal. Every Friday, I would create questions, answer them and then ask my readers for their answers. "Falderal" is in honor of a dear friend who used the word liberally before she passed away.

So, without further ado, here are this week's questions:

Do you feel obligated to spend holidays with family or do you do your own thing?
My husband feels obligated and also likes to spend time with his family so we do. However, one time, years ago, we did go to California for Thanksgiving...

Cake, pie or cookies?

Oh, cookies! Chewy, yummy cookies! Then again, pecan pie...german chocolate cake? Who makes up these questions, anyway?!

Do you keep up with national politics?

Yes, I do. In the United States, we have the honor of being able to vote for our leadership. Much of the time I feel that my vote doesn't count because those I vote for don't get elected! However, I will not stomp on the lives that were lost to give me the right to vote.

Pampering, waste of money or therapy?:

I was raised with a "Depression Era" mentality so I tend to try to make a nickel worth five cents. It is hard for me to spend money on myself. That being said, I don't get paid for watching my granddaughter five days a week so I asked my daughter to pay for me to get a manicure every two weeks. It is time that is just for me and it is therapeutic!

Looking forward to hearing from you! g

Just Don't Know

Just don't know what to make of what has been going on around here. Wisdom and discernment are needed and I am waiting upon the Lord to guide me.

As I am sure I have mentioned in the past, being a parent lasts a lifetime. Doesn't matter what your child's age is you still are happy when they are happy and sad when they are sad.

I've been blessed to quite often be able to learn from other people's mistakes. Don't get me wrong; I have made some of the stupidest mistakes in the past. What I am saying is that, had people not kept their counsel before I jumped in I might not have taken the plunges that brought me such pain. Telling me afterwards did no good.

Now I find myself weighing my words with my children; especially my daughter. I do speak up but it falls on deaf ears - or so I think. So much unnecessary pain. It hurts me.

Having a grandchild changes how you act toward your grown child, too. Her welfare needs to come first and, if I don't think it is, I want to jump right in. Tact is much more difficult.

Ugh. I am so happy I have prayer to help me through. I don't think I'd be alive without my faith. I'm not all that strong without God's hand holding me up.

Have you ever felt like giving up and running away? Oh, yes. I am blessed that I have a couple of places to go overnight if I feel I am going to burst.

If you have a child or children and you knew then what you know now would you have still had them? I love my children so much. That being said, there is only one way to get grandchildren...

Do you realize that those "perfect" families you see all around you aren't? Perfect, that is. Took me a while but yes, I realize it. I have found that, after getting to know them, I am happy to come home to what I live with.

Are you sick of holiday sweets yet? Just when I think I am I get a yen...

In saying the new year, are you saying "twenty-ten" or 'two thousand ten?" I want to say the latter but am afraid of being lazy and saying the former. I have a keen sense of being appropriate. heavy sigh

Be well, gail

TV Tales and Such

I watch too much television. I use the tv as a babysitter for Bells too much of the time. Mom used to call it the "idiot box" and I believe a majority of the households in America use it as their main form of entertainment.

Pass through any neighborhood at night and, if a window isn't covered, you might see flashing forms from whatever is being watched. As I type this, CSI is playing from the dvr. Himself still likes it but I am kind of bored by it and grossed out by how graphic, gory and filled with gratuitous sex it is.

HOWEVER, it does serve a good purpose, too. I have learned quite a bit of decent knowledge from some of my shows. For instance, if someone is dying slowly and no one can figure it out, test for heavy metal poisoning. Arsenic will be detected that way but the test is rarely given making it the choice of unhappy spouses who want out. Himself thinks I am so smart when I can figure that kind of thing out. hmmm...

Like the internet, it is great and horrible.

Enough of that. Less than two weeks before Christmas. I have never done Santa with my kids but The Girl is doing it with Isabella who still doesn't get it. I asked The Boy if it ever bothered him that I didn't do Santa and he said no. The Girl, however, had her father telling her Santa was real and she tried to make me believe in him.

In the spirit of decoration, I have polished my nails a deep green. Sally's Beauty Supply sells their own brand of nail polish in small bottles for .99! I love that! You don't have to commit to a color you paid $8 for.

Have I mentioned that my children are making me crazy? I have to remember that we have raised them and they are adults. They are now responsible for themselves and no longer require our parenting. We have to sit back and pray whilst they make their mistakes and have their victories. It is so hard. If they would only listen we could keep them from hurting so badly. ugh Letting God be God is hard but they belong to Him, not us.

Are you ready for Christmas? Depends on what you mean by ready. We buy very few gifts and I haven't baked much for years. The tree is trimmed and a few decorations are up.

Have a favorite Christmas cookie? Hard to choose. I like my coconut macaroons drizzled with chocolate and oatmeal lace cookies sandwiched with chocolate. Gingerbread cookies with chocolate on them. Am I seeing a pattern here?

Where will you be on Christmas eve and or day? Christmas eve, my sister's house with my side of the family. Christmas day, the in-laws'.

Egg nog? A little bit. I like it but it is sooo fattening.

What are you watching on tv these days? I'm enjoying the Home & Garden channel a lot especially the Canadian shows like Income Property and The Unsellables. Also, Christmas movies on the Hallmark channel.

Here's hoping that your "days are merry and bright and that all your Christmases are white" (at least in your dreams!).

blessings, g

Blogging

Looking back over the last few years I see that blogging has enmeshed itself in the very fiber of my life. Although I have not spent much time here of late, the effects are in my life every day.

It seems that it would be unrealistic to call someone a "friend" if you have not really met. However, I have met a few of you in person and it has solidified our relationships. A few others I have spoken with by phone and other forms of communication and we have stood by one another through good times and rough times.

When I post new pictures of Isabella, I get the same reactions here that I get from my friends and family I "see" in person. Every time we conquer a battle for Bells' education or when she makes progress, I have a virtual cheering section.

If I am sick or sad, I get encouragement and prayers. When you are sick or need encouragement, I deem it an honor to be able to pray for you and send you a bit of "g" wisom and cheer!

What I am saying is I appreciate you and count you a blessing in my life! Thank you for being here.

Let's do a falderal on Thursday to change things up:

How long have you been blogging: About three and a half years now.

Why did you start? I'm not really sure. I enjoyed reading other people's blogs and I enjoy writing so it seemed natural to start.

Have you met anyone from blogland in person? Yes. I have met Lols and Texas Mammie and they are as wonderful in person as they are here!

What has slowed you down in blogworld, if, indeed, you have slowed down? If you haven't slowed down, what has kept you going? I must confess that facebook is one culprit but mostly it is the changes spaces has made. We now have to work harder to see what is going on with our friends.

How in the world are you? I am pretty well, thank you very much. We are experiencing weird weather and it is making a mess of our sinuses but our health is pretty good.

God bless all of you, g

Futile to Fight Falderal

The girls have finally moved back home. It was a quick, easy move although the getting organized will probably start tomorrow. Correction: better start tomorrow.

What is futile is to fight wanting a quiet house for any length of time. As a, matter of fact, we had to pick up Bells from school yesterday with a cough and low fever. She can not return until we have a doctor's note. Even a slight fever gives the schools such fear now. It is a shame but I suppose it is necessary.

What is also futile is to depend on others to figure out the right answers for a child like Isabella. After waiting nine months for an appointment, I accompanied The Girl and Bells to see a developmental pediatrician. Although we know she has autism, we had to get a formal diagnosis. The nurse practitioner took a detailed history and then the doctor came in. She was read the history and didn't add much of anything. When asked about testing for deficiencies or about diet she said she doesn't do any of that because it isn't "scientifically proven." See you in six months.

Hmmm...

Not one suggestion; not one how do you do. All we got was a diagnosis. Now I understand why the moms in Bells' school told us to use another doctor; live and learn. However, the nurse practitioner and doctor both agreed that Bells has a very good chance of leading a "normal" life some day in the future.

We have expected progress not further problems. However, our girl has started to hit herself on occasion. It has brought The Girl to tears. It seems to be like a reflex rather than a behavior she thinks about. Something for us to research.

On a lighter note, we celebrated Isabella's 4th birthday last weekend. Can you believe she is four years old? She loved being sung to at the several celebrations she had. Balloons? She brings them everywhere with her! The Girl has asked me to not get any more. Himself and I got her a set of instruments - percussion instruments - drum, maracas, castinets, bells! Typical grandparent present but not when the grandchild lives with you. That kind of noise doesn't bother me. High pitched noises do like whistles.

Are there any noises that bother you? High-pitched whistles, nails on a chalkboard and utensils scraping a plate.

Have there been any battles you have had to fight for your children? Many times. Getting my children classified with learning disabilities took my figuring it out before the system did. I will go into detail if you wish.

Do you like chai? Eww. I figured out that it has cloves in it and I have a story about cloves I might share some time that explains why I hate it.

Plans for Thanksgiving? I know my Canadian friends have already celebrated and my international friends might not celebrate. We are actually staying home this year. So many years going to the in-laws and we are tired of seeing Himself's mom exhaust herself. We will go there for dessert.

Is this going to be a good holiday season? If it KILLS me I will enjoy myself! Those of you who have been with me for a while know I don't like this time of year. I am going to try to be a model of Christmas cheer!

Be well, my friends. I pray that all is well. g

Obedience No Matter What

I'm weary of finding f words to title the falderal so I am taking a breather from thinking too hard!

It is so hard, sometimes, to obey God's word. It says to honor our authorities because He put them there. Reading some other blogs, I see a lot of anger towards our current administration over the horrible events at Fort Hood this past week. Some say we are less safe than we were before 9/11.

To say that the average American knows what is really going on in our country is to live in a dream world. We don't know and, truth be told, don't want or need to know all that happens to keep us safe. We do, though, need to know that our brave men and women who serve our country can have a reasonable expectation of safety on a military post!

If a military person speaks out against the military do they still belong there? Is there any room for insurrection within the ranks? Amongst civilians, yes. Amongst the military? No. There needs to be obedience unless an order goes against the good.

As much as I want to rail against the administration and all I disagree with, it is my duty to pray for them, for the military and for my country. I must trust that God has a plan for my life and part of it is to live here in the United States.

I am not convinced that my beloved country will ever be God fearing again. As a matter of fact, I see it going progressively downhill. I hope and pray that I am wrong. Whatever happens, though, will not be a surpise to God.

Let us stand firm no matter what is tossed our way.

Given the opportunity, would you rather live in a country other than the one you live in now? No. I have thought about it but can't think of one my family and I would be better off in.

Are you frustrated with your government? Very much so. No matter how often I contact my representative and senators I get the same thanks but no thanks response.

Do you think you would consider running for office? I don't see it in my future but I don't pretend to know the future.

Do you have a favorite song right now? I am very fond of Revelation Song by Phillips, Craig and Dean. It is so touching and true.

How is your life lately? Really good. I am so blessed and I choose to count my blessing rather than wallow in pity over what could be.

Himself and I celebrated 22 years of marriage this past week. We enjoyed a meal of sushi at one of our favorite restaurants and are glad for what God has blessed us with.

Our Isabella is coming into overt consciousness of this world a bit more lately. She is responding to our questions with appropriate and correct answers. It is soooo exciting!

Bless you this week and always, g

Fairly Fun Falderal

As you may or may not recall, Isabella calls me Booboo. As of today, I am her class Booboo! My friend, M, didn't think it was fair that Bells' class, which her son is in, didn't have a class parent so she volunteered. Well, where M goes g goes! I was so happy to be a part of their halloween party. (I guess the parent association didn't think kids with autism needed to have class parents. They never met M!)The Dread Pirate Bella

Personally, I don't like halloween. It's darkness disturbs my soul. People are always telling me to lighten up and get into the spirit of it. Problem is the "spirit" of it is not the spirit of God. If it is not the Spirit of God the only thing left is an ugly spirit; the spirit of darkness.

If anyone rings our bell I will hand out the bags of pretzels we bought and will be properly appreciative of the creativity involved in dressing the children up. I will not, however, get into the "spirit" of this day we call halloween.

Do you 'celebrate' halloween? See above.

Do you hand out treats? Last year and this year we decided to hand out bags of pretzels to be a little less sugary. Some years I was a grinch and didn't have anything but I realized I wasn't being a light to people.

Did you get the "Dread Pirate" reference I made? Have you ever seen Princess Bride? You would have to have to get the reference!

What is your favorite holiday? Any day I decide to have family over just because. I am not a big fan of "calendar" holidays. They stress us all out too much.

Anyone want to plan to not be around for the holidays (Thanksgiving and Christmas) with me? We can make plans!

Here's hoping all is well with you. Let me know about customs where you are. g

Freaky Friday Falderal

Freaky Friday Falderal

Friday evening and, as I sit here typing this, the Yankee/Twins playoff game is on and I am scratching my head over the news of this day.

Firstly, I see that Obama won the Nobel Peace Prize. Huh? The candidates were chosen two weeks after he was sworn in. Why did he win this? Have his followers finally convinced enough people that he is the messiah? I am confused.

Then I read in the paper that my state is starting a registry for autistic people. It seems we already have registries for craniofacial problems, cardiac problems and others. It looks to me that we are being prepared for a healthcare holocaust! It is supposed to be anoymously reported by healthcare professionals. Anonymous. Right. I sense that this is a wolf in sheep's clothing. Beware when the government comes saying it is doing something to help you. Big Brother is watching.

Heard a specialist in infection and disease control say he wouldn't take or allow the swine flu vaccine to be given to his children. He said it has too many additives in it like a disinfectant that has been linked to causing autism in children with mitochondrial defects. Hellooooo! Let's use our sense, people.

My darling Isabella has a stomach something. Poor thing was crying in pain and asked me to put a band aid on her tummy. Is that too cute? Poor thing just wanted to go to sleep and woke up in pain and started throwing up. My poor baby.

Have you ever read George Orwell's 1984? Did/does it effect the way you think about government? Actually, I have never read it but know enough about the premise that it has affected my life for a long time. I don't even want EZ Pass in my car but Himself insists on it. Privacy is an illusion.

Did you or are you going to get a flu shot this year? How about the swine flu vaccine? I'm not prone to getting the flu but opted to get the shot because I need to be healthy to care for Bells. Swine flu? Not on your life! It's too new. See above.

What is your idea of an ideal Saturday off? Starting Friday night, staying up as late as I like. Saturday morning sleeping in as long as I like. Then, having a quiet house all to myself for the entire afternoon followed by a nice evening with our bcf's (best couple friends - the couple we hang out with the most).

Read any good books lately? Just finished Kathy*Reichs' latest, "206 Bones." That's how many we have in the human body. It was pretty good. I figured some of it out early on, though. Also, been reading Ecclesiastes in the Bible.

Have any trips coming up? Well, since you ask...I am going to visit my baby brother in Texas next week. I haven't seen him in two and a half years and am going to suck up my fear of flying to see him and his wonderful wife. Hopefully, Dana "Texas Mammie" and I are going to meet up for lunch.

Heard or seen any craziness in the news? Let's hear about it?

blessings, g

Fear I'm Failing Falderal

October 04
Fear I'm Failing Falderal

I hate not keeping up with the falderal. By the time Friday rolls around, I am beat. I'm trying!

Around here, life is rarely boring. We may not be the most active family but our lives are full. My calendar used to have a lot of empty spaces but they are filling up quickly these days.

We need to be careful, though, of busyness. We were reminded in this morning's sermon that busyness can keep us from the truly important things in life like spending time with God and reading his word.

Busyness takes form in many ways. Those with young families find themselves running the children to this, that and the other thing after having a full day working at home or on site. Watching a lot of tv, my vice, keeps me "busy" when there is much else I can be doing. Fantasy football keeps my son glued to the tv and his laptop all Sunday. Web browsing, texting, shopping; all ways to keep busy.

What's keeping you busy today? My busyness today in particular was taking a nap! I am here on my netbook and football is on.

Do you allow too much busyness in your life? Allow? When it comes to tv and the computer, yes. Taking care of Isabella as much as I do is a blessing but not something I "choose" to do. It would be nice to have some options.

Do you "get" fantasy football? I just explained what I think it is to my son and he said I was right. Yea me!

What would you like to be busier doing? Reading scripture and spending time with God; fruitful time with God. This has taken such a back seat to tv and the computer and it is time to get right again.

What can you give up or cut back on to reach the goal in the last question? I have a habit of turning on the tv shortly after I wake up to see what is going on in the world. That can wait.

How are you? I hope and pray that all is well with and yours. Drop me a comment and let me know, okay? g

Feeling Free Falderal

September 18

For the last two and a half years (three and a half if you count a false start), I have been working through the book Walls of My Heart by Dr. Bruce Thompson and Barbara Thompson. It is described as "Powerful Keys to Breaking Out and Being Free."

Since I was fifteen years old, I have been in and out of therapy. All those counselors, all those years prepared my for this journey through which I was led by, for the most part, my friend Am. I learned that I had built walls of sadness, insecurity, bitterness, anger and many more negatives around my heart. My experience taught me why I put them there, how to tear them down and how to build new walls which are healthy for me and pleasing to God.

There is so much I want to write but I am hoping that maybe some of you will take this journey. If you have no one here to guide you through it, I hope you will ask the Holy Spirit to guide you. I will be happy to answer questions via e-mails.

The weekend is upon us and it couldn't have come too soon! I'm beat. Isabella is my companion from seven am til school starts at nine and then I pick her up at two thirty. She is with us until six pm. I love her more than anything in this world - still, weekends are good!

Do you have anyone you can talk to about what's on your mind? I am blessed in that area. I have wise friends and a great mom.

Breakfast sausage or bacon? Neither! What are you trying to do, kill me? My cholesterol is high enough. Who thinks up these questions anyway. Besides, I hate the spicing in breakfast sausage.

Do you think about whether or not what you watch or read effects you spiritually? More than ever before. I have learned that a person's brain retains memories so well that, when having brain surgery in the memory portion of the brain, memories and the feelings that went along with them are relived when probed! I must be careful what I put in here.

You can be instantly transported anywhere in the world right now for three hours. Where would you go? As of this moment, I would go to be with my friend V in South Africa to take care of her because she is sick.

Once again, are you ready for some football??? Last Sunday, because we have the NFL channel, we also have a channel called Red Zone. It is five hours of non-commercial football switching from game to game when teams get close to the twenty yard line or further if the other teams are on commercial break. My son and his buddies had a hard time tearing themselves away for potty breaks! Himself and I went to a fair in town for an hour but I enjoyed the games with the guys while reading a book.

Let me know what you are up to, people. Sending blessings your way, g

Fun, Fatique and Farewells Falderal

It was quite a week here in gville. I watched Isabella four of five days (I told The Girl to get someone else to watch her on Thursday when I could barely keep my eyes open Wednesday from insomnia and fatigue).

We visited a great park on Monday, the same park on Tuesday with a school chum and his mom and two sisters and a local zoo on Wednesday. Exhausting and fun.

As for farewell, we attended a wake this afternoon. Our bcf's sister-in-law passed after a long illness. Only 69 years old. God rest her soul. She and her husband were sweethearts from the time they were fourteen and fifteen.

Life can sure throw us curve balls. What's the old saying, "We make plans and God laughs?"

We never planned on having a grandchild with autism but here we are. We are blessed that our Bells can communicate for the most part. I have been noticing some behaviors lately that are disheartening but we can address them with her teacher and therapists when school starts next week.

As you all know, we wouldn't trade our Isabella for a neurotypical child. She is who she is and autism is a part of her. Eventually, she will, more than likely, be in a regular classroom. She will probably always have "eccentric" ways about her. Truth be told, it is my own eccentricities that I tend to like best about myself! My buddy, M, says I am definitely on the spectrum! (Her son is in Bells' class and we can kid around like that.)

Do you have any interaction with a person with autism? Well, uh, yea! Bells and now her friend. It is an educational experience nearly every day. Am I happy for the education? Most days.

What do you know more about than you would have chosen to know about? Cancer and autism. I have had more experience with them having to do with people I love than I would ever choose to.

Have you ever gone skydiving? Would you? Are you out of your cotton pickin' mind?!

What would you like to try to do that you haven't done before? Hmmm...why do I ask questions I don't have a ready answer for? How about a missions trip. I like my comfort zone and could use an attitude adjustment.

Is there any such thing as an honest politician? Oh, I hope so.

For my American friends, enjoy your Labor Day weekend. For everyone else, enjoy your regular weekend!

blessings, gail

Feeling Faint Falderal

Not really. Just very tired. The fms has knocked me for a loop and all I want to do is sleep. It could be much, much worse.

You know how each occupation or lifestyle has its own humor? When I worked in a hospital, the jokes we told there did not translate into the every day world. People thought it morbid. Same thing with ethnic jokes, senior moments, etc.

Talking with one of Isabella's schoolmate's mom's, M, I questioned her about what she thinks is acceptable in the world of people who love someone who has autism. I told her that I almost wrote out the comment, "At least, with her autism, Isabella always has someone to talk to." (see http://conquerautism.com/blog/?tag=scripting) M laughed and agreed that others wouldn't get it. As a matter of fact, they might think it cruel when it is just the statement of a gram who loves her grandchild more than she could ever think it possible to!

There is a site that sells t-shirts such as "Proud Grandparent of an Autistic Granddaughter." Another shirt states, "Autism rocks! And flaps and spins..." Would you be apalled to see that last one? M said that is her favorite! My daughter is afraid to wear that one because she is afraid she might hurt the feelings of one of the other parents at school.

I guess it is a matter of what one is comfortable with and the spirit in which they present it. For some, one of those shirts is the same as the having an autism awareness magnet on their car. Still, maybe I ought to stick with something like this: Or, more importantly, this:

Do you work in a field or have an interest where the humor related to it doesn't translate to the rest of the world? See above.

Other than sleep, how to you get beyond fatigue? Going for a walk might work.

Any plans for the weekend? My greatniece is being dedicated on Sunday and I am attending the party and service. It will be good to have the family together.

Are you sad because summer is waning or are you looking forward to autumn? The only sad part of summer ending for me is the shortened daylight hours. Other than that, bring on the crisp, cool days of autumn!

Sing or hum? Used to be sing all the time but I find I don't know as many words as I do tunes these days so humming it is!

Hoping that all is well in your world, g

Feeling Faint Falderal

Not really. Just very tired. The fms has knocked me for a loop and all I want to do is sleep. It could be much, much worse.

You know how each occupation or lifestyle has its own humor? When I worked in a hospital, the jokes we told there did not translate into the every day world. People thought it morbid. Same thing with ethnic jokes, senior moments, etc.

Talking with one of Isabella's schoolmate's mom's, M, I questioned her about what she thinks is acceptable in the world of people who love someone who has autism. I told her that I almost wrote out the comment, "At least, with her autism, Isabella always has someone to talk to." (see http://conquerautism.com/blog/?tag=scripting) M laughed and agreed that others wouldn't get it. As a matter of fact, they might think it cruel when it is just the statement of a gram who loves her grandchild more than she could ever think it possible to!

There is a site that sells t-shirts such as "Proud Grandparent of an Autistic Granddaughter." Another shirt states, "Autism rocks! And flaps and spins..." Would you be apalled to see that last one? M said that is her favorite! My daughter is afraid to wear that one because she is afraid she might hurt the feelings of one of the other parents at school.

I guess it is a matter of what one is comfortable with and the spirit in which they present it. For some, one of those shirts is the same as the having an autism awareness magnet on their car. Still, maybe I ought to stick with something like this: Or, more importantly, this:

Do you work in a field or have an interest where the humor related to it doesn't translate to the rest of the world? See above.

Other than sleep, how to you get beyond fatigue? Going for a walk might work.

Any plans for the weekend? My greatniece is being dedicated on Sunday and I am attending the party and service. It will be good to have the family together.

Are you sad because summer is waning or are you looking forward to autumn? The only sad part of summer ending for me is the shortened daylight hours. Other than that, bring on the crisp, cool days of autumn!

Sing or hum? Used to be sing all the time but I find I don't know as many words as I do tunes these days so humming it is!

Hoping that all is well in your world, g

Flitting Around and Fun Falderal

Ms. Lisbeth pointed out to me that I am getting out a lot more than I used to. Wow. It hadn't hit me but it is absolutely true. Having been agoraphobic in the past this is very big.

Just this week alone:

Saturday - out to dinner with the in-laws
Sunday - wedding
Monday - out for the afternoon with Himself
Tuesday and Wednesday - our friends' townhouse down the Jersey shore
Thursday - watched Isabella and then went out to dinner with friends whom I haven't seen in about twenty years
Friday - watched Isabella and out to lunch with a friend visiting from Australia
Tomorrow - baby shower at a "posh" place

Today, we booked a flight for me to go to Texas to visit my baby bro in October. I hate to fly but really want to see my brother and his wife. And I am going alone! Himself has his yearly, sometimes twice yearly, visits with his navy buddies and sometimes goes out to Colorado with a buddy to visit a childhood friend. This will be my time. Also, my brother is fourteen years younger than I and it is a sister/mom/son kind of relationship. He's a great kid! And his wife is tops in my book because she makes him happy.

Isabella is still making me laugh. Doesn't matter how bad a mood I am in; she can make me laugh. Now that I am trying to come up with an example I can't think of one but I laughed quite a bit these last two days. She is making good progress in her communication skills. I am hearing more complete sentences instead of one or two word statements or questions. Now, if we can only get her potty trained.....

The daylight hours are waning. It is now almost dark at eight in the evening (we are at the eastern end of a time zone). That is the only thing that bothers me about the end of summer. In a sermon a couple of weeks ago, the pastor spoke about the negativity of grumbling. It has helped me keep myself in check so I will not go on about how horrid the heat and humidity have been. I will just mention it. Aren't you so proud of me?

That part about not grumbling can be a real life changer. The more one grumbles the more negative their life. It's always been hard for me to not be negative. I figured that pessimists are rarely disappointed. That may be true but it is a lousy way to live. I'm so glad I have friends who help me to lighten up.

Do you tend to be an optimist or a pessimist? I am turning into someone who is cautiously optimistic. I believe I know what is real and what is not and know not to waste my time obsessing on things I can't change. At least I am learning how to.

How is your self image? It has been horrible for years. However, as I learn to like myself, I am taking steps towards accepting and maybe even liking how I look. It has been difficult looking in the mirror at a person who looks like my gram. Yes, I do look like my gram. However, she was a much loved woman who was beautiful from the inside out. Not a bad thing to aspire to, eh?

What is your clothing style? Can you tell I have am watching What Not To Wear as I type this? A statement they made is really bothering me: you should feel beautiful in everything you wear. I have very little clothing because I am cheap when it comes to buying things for myself. I don't usually feel pretty in what I am wearing. I want to change that one piece of clothing at a time whether I am overweight or not.

Do you pay full retail? No! Maybe that is why I don't dress all that well!

Do you enjoy the Duggar family? Very much so.

I appreciate you, g

Fear, Folly or Fully Functional

What will become of our "special" children with the new healthcare this administration is trying to pass? Will they be treated in the same way people of "mental incapacity" were treated in Nazi Germany? Will we have to reprise the White Rose Society (http://www.shoaheducation.com/whiterose.html).

The more I read and hear of this new health plan the more frightened I get. Has anyone heard anything about what is in store for our children? There is money that is supposed to be earmarked for autism research. Do we believe it will ever see the light of day?

Our society has lost its respect for life be it the beginning of life or the end of it. Each of us is precious in His sight. Please, keep your eyes and ears open and don't let our elected officials stuff what you don't want down your throat.

Are you a healthy person? For the most part, yes. I rarely get sick.

If you are healthy, what is your secret? Chocolate. No, only kidding. I hardly ever eat it any more because it took over my life. I would have to say it is by the grace of God that I am healthy. I have things to do for Him and I have to be healthy to do them. If I am sick, there is a good reason for it.

Favorite cookie? Chewy lace cookies with chocolate sandwiched between them.

Favorite cake? German Chocolate.

Favorite exercise? Sleeping. Oh, if I had to choose it would be walking.

Stay safe, dear ones. Be vigilant. blessings, gail