Last week I tried to write about the weekend, but was still so over-whelmed by it that I just typed a few lines and then gave up on it. Had a house full of teens and all they did was eat and drink and eat and drink and eat and drink!

So, today I'm starting over. Fred didn't have to work Friday, so after he did his laundry, he came up. He had stopped by Wal Mart and showed up with two big packs of boneless pork chops for me to cook. 14 pork chops were a few too many so I only cooked one pack along with some carrots and 'taters. He, Susan and I had a nice supper and even had 2 left for today. I was minding my own business when the phone rang. It was Emily wanting to know if it was Ok for her to come and stay the night and bring a "puppy" that a friend from Portsmouth had brought up here looking for a home so it wouldn't have to go to the pound. I told her that it would be OK just for the night. A little later she showed up at the door and rung the bell and I was introduced to "Hippo", a year old puppy that was as big, if not bigger than the nice, calm dog that lives next door. He was a full bloodied English bull dog and was as big as a pony. His head was on the level with the dining room table and his feet were as big as mine, just shaped different! That was a BIG dog!!

I asked her if he was going to stay in the basement, but she said he could sleep on the floor if I had an old blanket or something for him to lay on. I did and he did. But, she had to take him out several times and it was raining and after they left about six this evening, I had to scrub humongous footprints off the dining room, hall, Rebecca's room and the living room floors. He was a pretty dog with nice markings, but Chopper was extremely jealous of Emily paying attention to anybody but him.

Today there was a yard/estate sale on Howeland Circle. While we were out we decided to go and they had a lot of stuff with extremely ridiculous prices on most of it. The only stuff I could afford was a flower pot in the shed out back. But, I really loved the way the house was arranged. Also, while we were out, we went to Stateline Diner and had brunch. BJ came over and asked how we liked the new location and we chatted a while. That's the 5th time I've been since they re-opened. And, the confetti is still the best!!

After everybody got rain wet, I had to wash some hoodies and jeans and now I'm waiting for them to finish drying and my meat for dinner tomorrow to cook. Then, I'm either going to bed or play with my kindle some more. I've read two books on it, and I love the word games. But, I'm on level ten and stuck with the longest word. Hoping my FB pal can help me out. He has a couple of times, so I'm waiting.

Fred's birthday was Friday so I bought him a new shirt and some dress gloves and cooked a B'day dinner for him. I bought a nice beef roast and cooked it with carrots and potatoes and gravy and had green peas on the side. Also had biscuits and a B'day brownie instead of a cake. There was enough to have repeats on Sat. evening.

Sat. morning we went to a yard sale at the "big yellow house" and he bought him some more of the nice white socks like the ones he'd bought earlier in the summer. Or, maybe, late in the summer. They had a lot of stuff, but this time they were running it like a business complete with cash register and listing what everybody bought. But, the socks were the same price as last time. Later in the day, we went to Eden to get Fred's hair cut; but the guy that usually does it was closed so he went to another shop where his son gets his hair cut and the girl took off a bunch of it. Everybody that saw it today in church told him how good it looks, but he thinks it's way too short. It's not; it really looks nice, but I guess he was used to seeing all that hair. Anyway, in two weeks it'll be all grown out again.

For Christmas Emily gave him ten lottery tickets. He scratched them and won $13. He took that money and bought some more and that time he won $5. He took that and added a dollar to it and got six more and I scratched half and he scratched half and I scratched off one worth $50 and he got a dollar one. So he turned that in for money and I kept $20 and he kept $20 and he got 10 more tickets and that time I scratched off $10 worth. So, he hasn't spent any money on the lottery cause it all came from the Christmas gift, but we both have spending money and another ticket to turn in. Pretty good, huh?

Cindy had given us a gift card to the new Olive Garden and so we went there today for dinner. We waited, we thought, until the after church crowd had gone--we didn't get there until after 2:30; but that place was packed. We had to wait about 15 minutes to be seated but the bread alone was worth the wait. It was so good! The chicken parmesan with spaghetti was good as was the salad. Fred didn't eat all of his chicken dumpling soup because it was full of parsley but my salad was really good. I would like to go there sometime and just eat the bread!

Well, Fred just called; he was home and was about to make his lunch for tomorrow and then was going to bed because 5:30 comes early. All in all, a very good weekend!

The only resolution I made was not to make any. So, I didn't.The G'kids were here until Monday evening and after they all left I cleaned the "boy cave" (my den). I hadn't been in there since Christmas Eve and it was kind of a mess. I washed all the throws and sheets that were in there and put the flip chairs back in their proper places. Found Chad's lost for several days phone in the trash can; and some change on the floor. Also various and sundry empty soda cans and food wrappers. But, now it's clean and SO lonesome!

After the den I tackled the living room and hall floors; got them halfway decent. Then the dining room today. Moved my Christmas village and put the lighthouse collection back out. Changed the table cloth and re-arranged the plants so they could get the sun. Straightened up Rebecca's room and threw out the clutter or at least got it all in one place so I can take it to the dumpster tomorrow.

Before Tommy left he set up the wireless printer Emily got me for Christmas, but so far I haven't had anything to print.Been playing with my kindle; read one book on it and have been playing that word game that is so addictive.

Rachel came by yesterday after her first day at DCC and was very enthused with it. I'm so glad she likes it and I wish her well. Rebecca came up today to bring back Susan's new coat which she had accidently picked up thinking it was hers .And,she took me to Stateline Cafe for supper. Yummy! Confetti!!Susan and I had searched this house over yesterday looking for it and all the time it was in the back seat of Rebecca's car.

Tomorrow after school Rachel is coming by and we're going to Penneys to buy a birthday present for Fred. His B'day is Friday. I have one idea, but need to think of something else. Oh, well; maybe by tomorrow something will come to me.

We decided back in November that we have so many people here on Christmas Day that we would do a $5 gift exchange. Cindy's idea! You bring a gift--you take a gift. Susan and Cindy and a few others brought more than one just in case someone forgot and it turned out to be really fun.

Cindy came on Christmas Eve and finished wrapping the presents that Fred didn't wrap for me and later that night we went to the communion service at the church across the street; then later that night we fixed the stockings and on Christmas morning Susan, Cindy and I got up early and did our Christmas before anybody else got here. Actually, Fred came at 9:30 and we went to the service at the Presbyterian church. It was so good and inspiring.

On Christmas we don't do a sit down dinner anymore because everybody is busy going here and there so I make 3 soups, dessert and have lots of sandwich fixings and if you come hungry you can eat and if you aren't it's OK just to nibble a bit. It works for us and this year my sister in law Betty came for the first time and Kerri and her daughters came for the first time.Of course, Brooklyn is only 6 months old and this was her very first Christmas. I had fun but didn't really have time to eat a lot until later in the evening. When I went back and counted we had 31 to come by and most of them ate something.

Tommy and Rebecca came up from Stoneville on Christmas day and Rachel stayed the night and yesterday Tommy's friend Christian came up, so I've had a few teens here. But, except for needing rides here and there, they're no trouble. The boys, I mean. Rebecca has her car so she goes whenever she wants to. Right now, her and Rachel are in Boone where she goes to school.

I guess the only bad things about all the kids being here is that they do mess up a LOT of dishes even tho I have throw away plates, bowls and utensils. AND, the towels! You won't believe how many towels I've washed today. Cause one of the girls messes up three every time she showers and some days she'll shower twice! But, Christmas only comes once a year and some day they'll all be too old to visit, so I'll just enjoy them now while I can.

I hope all of you had a wonderful Christmas and I wish for you the best New Year ever!

Today started early. Had to get up and finish cooking casseroles and make biscuits for my church breakfast.It was supposed to start at 8:30 and I was nearly finished at 8:15 when I heard the door bell. We had three early arrivals! But, i just told them to have a seat while I finished up.By 8:30 I was ready!

We ended up with 19 being fed in all and I still had a few leftovers. Guess what I'm having for lunch tomorrow?

At 1:30 we went Christmas caroling with the Presbyterian choir and it was really fun. We went to the homes of a couple of their "shut in" members first and then went to Roman Eagle Nursing home to visit another member. We sung in a couple or rooms and were on the way out when an aide stopped us and said this lady down the hall heard us and wanted us to come sing for her. We did and she sung along with us and looked so happy when we left. Then we went to one more home and sung and then Tommy dropped us off because he had to go to Roanoke to see a play at his son's church. But, at the last stop he did get to do one Uueey!

Then, Fred and I went to Ollies, Dollar General, Good will and WalMart. Then we came home and I heated some sausage gravy and we ate breakfast for supper. But, it was really good 'cause I hadn't eaten any of the gravy this morning. After you cook for 24 hours, food just doesn't look that good. But, it was good tonight!

i wrote about cooking earlier, but I don't think I wrote about taking the big comforter that Charlie likes to sleep on when he's here to the basement to wash it. I was about half way down when the combination of Tiger and the comforter slipping made me slip. I went sideways off the stairs and landed on my shoulder and arm with my heading cracking the wooden door. But, it didn't hurt me; just made me Mad!

Yesterday we went to a few yard sales, but were home in about 1 1/2 hours.And not a single Uueey! So, Fred and I went to Good Will, Food Lion, Dollar General and Ollies. And also Wal Mart and K Mart looking for decorated divided plates for Christmas. And, Old Dutch for chicken.

Today I got up early and cooked my chicken, potatoes, and tea because we were going to The Living Christmas Tree at Lebanon Baptist Church outside of Greensboro. Came home from church and decided I'd fix some green beans to go with my dinner; but first I'd get dressed in my Christmas vest and shirt and be ready to go after I ate. Well, everything is ready and I reached up over the pot to get the slotted spoon and the fringe on my vest goes up in a big blaze. Fred had just came into the kitchen for some reason and he grabbed my vest and tore it off me and threw it on the floor and stomped the fire out. The fire also messed up my white shirt under the vest but luckily I'd pinned my hair back before I cooked and didn't catch that on fire. I only ended up with a lil pink place on my upper right boob and on my neck because I slavered lotion on it right away.But, the dinner was good; we got to church on time and the play was wonderful!

Why am I writing in my journal on Thursday? Well, have some time before my TV show and have a few things to say.

Tommy S. called me again on Tue. and asked if I'd do him one more favor. This time he only needed one batch of cookies and one batch of fudge for his office party this morning. So I got the needed supplies and cooked them Wed. morning and he came by and picked them up Wed. afternoon and took my car and bought me a tank full of gas. And, also paid for the ingredients for the sweet stuff. Pretty good, huh? Maybe I'll go into business making Geraldine's fudge! Anyway, that's all I had to say and I figured I'd forget it by Sat. or Sunday.

The first day of December I cooked; made sugar cookies and two batches of fudge for Tommy S.'s fund raiser at the Community Market. Then, on Dec. 2 I cooked for Tommy and Richard's dinner at the church. But, I also got invited to go eat, so that was okay. And, the food was amazing and the games got kinda hysterical; especially with Paul(the pastor) reading A Visit From St. Nickolas.

Then today Tommy had to be at the Community Market at 7AM to set up, so Fred and I went down there to see what they had. I ran into Susan's 5th grade teacher, Mrs. Daniels, and directed her to Tommy's table and she bought a bunch of stuff. Also met a nice lady named Linda Chaney, from Ringgold who made cute lil stuffed baby dolls. She knows one of the guys from the funeral home. Then we stopped at a table that had the biggest conglomaration of stuff she had advertised as antiques. An old rusty Sauer spice can, a rusty snuff tin, a perculator like the one I make my tea in, one of those thingys you use to cut shortening into flour. All kinds of stuff that I have either in my cabinet or drawers and I never knew they were worth from $5 to $10!

After Tommy was finished with the fundraiser, he picked up Richard and Danny and came by for us and we went to a few yard sales. Mighty slim pickings, there, too. We went to one estate sale in Pinetag that had lots and lots of stuff, but it was so expensive. The house looked like a big white mansion and it was packed with some really old stuff. A victrola and a radio like my daddy used to have among other things.

Then we went downtown to a new shop called The Gourmet Frog and they had some really good stuff. Lots of different foods, hot sauces, wines, candy, gourmet oatmeal, etc. And, the aprons and mouse pads were really outstanding. Hilarously so! While we were downtown we also went to Dixie Bags and More which is going out of business, but their bargains were still way too expensive for me. But, we had lots of fun; only a couple of Uueeys and one close call in the middle of one. Some car came flying out of nowhere and Tommy had to adjust to keep from being smacked into.

Neglected to say that Cindy and Charlie came up Friday afternoon so Cindy could go to a company party with her friend Dave. And, Dave won the 32" flat screen TV that was the door prize. Lucky guy!!

Well, here it is Sunday evening and I'm all alone after having people here since Wednesday. We had a fun time, but now back to school, work and whatever the rest of us do.

Rebecca and Tommy got here first followed closely by Chad. As long as they've been coming to my house I've never heard them really fuss and fight like siblings do and they actually seem as close as siblings; and they're just cousins. I'm speaking here of Tommy and Chad.

Tuesday evening we had our Thanksgiving area church service at Arlington Baptist church on Kemper Rd. Then I started cooking on Wed. morning; turkey and dressing and gravy, angel salad--you know, the stuff that can be made ahead. Then when Rebecca got here she had a "from scratch" carrot cake recipe she wanted to make and Emily showed up with two different mac and cheese recipes she wanted to make. So, they cooked and I washed dishes. And washed dishes; and washed dishes. But, finally it was cooked and everybody went to bed.(Except Tommy and Chad who played their games all night.) Up bright and early Thursday morning to do the last minute stuff and wait for Cindy. She arrived carrying delicious pumpkin dip, butternut squash made with almonds(which I finished off today for lunch), shortbread and cranberries which she cooked and made fresh cranberry sauce that was so good. Then, people started arriving--Richard and Tommy and Danny with deviled eggs, Bobby with rolls, Rachel with potato salad, Teresa with sweet potato casserole and apple crisp(that was so good with icecream). We had 16 to eat, I think. Anyway, we had lots of food and lots of good fellowship.

Rebecca and Emily left here about 5AM Friday morning for the Black Friday shopping. Not me, I hung around the house and washed towels. Then Friday one of Rebecca's friends came up to spend the night and Sarah also spent the night; so that made Tommy, Chad, Rebecca, her friend, Sarah, Susan, Fred and me trying to find places to sleep. Chad and Fred slept on the flip chairs, Rebecca's friend on the floor in her room. Sarah on the sofa in the living room; Susan in the reclining chair and Tommy on the den sofa and Cindy and my G'dog Charlie in the front bedroom.

Saturday there were just a few yard sales and they didn't start until 9AM, so we didn't have to leave so early. found a couple of bargains. A new Jan Karon book I had looked at at Ollie's but didn't buy cause it cost too much, I found for $1 at a yard sale. Also a good CD and a cassette tape for my car. And, Richard bought me a 32" TV! It's my Christmas present, but it's hooked up now for me to enjoy before the boys come back with their X boxes.Thanks, bro!

Yesterday before Cindy left we went to Aldi and picked up a few things and then I got busy on my turkey bone soup. It took a while to make, but it turned out pretty tasty. I think it would be really good with a peanut butter sandwich. I don't know how to make just a little. Even after we ate lunch off of it and I gave Fred a quart for his lunch for a couple of days; I still have the big glass pot Tommy bought me a few weeks ago full to the brim. Actually, I think it's multiplying!

Well,except for the antics of the brothers yesterday, guess this is all. They were just too funny for words; kept me laughing the whole time we were out! But, neither Richard nor I flooded the back seat of the van!!

I had talked to Tommy S. the evening before and we'd decided that since there weren't that many yard sales, we'd leave at 8AM instead of 7. So I got to sleep an extra hour! Got up and had my coffee and dressed in my long johns under my favorite, lucky yard sale jeans. Sweat shirt and free coat from that church yard sale a few weeks ago.completed my attire.

I usually carry about a dollar or two of quarters and a few(very)of dollar bills in my jeans pocket and just in case I run up on something I've been told to look for, I have my wallet in my fanny pack. I think yesterday I only had 4 dollar bills, but I bought a nice SMALL wooden bread box for Cindy, a really beautiful short round table to join the two in my dining room to put a plant on, a like new fluffy snowman throw and a table lamp for the front bedroom. And, I still had money when I got home. I think these ladies yesterday wanted to sell their stuff and get back in where it's warm. I think everybody except Danny bought something.

In the process of getting to the various sales, Tommy only made 3 whole Uueeys and one partial because when he was in the process of completing one, some idiot truck driver just had to pull out from a side road so rather than getting sideswiped, Tommy sort of pulled into a side street.But, we had fun and laughs and got some bargains!

I had invited my pastor and his wife and daughter to supper, so when we got back home I put the beans on to cook. Cindy had sent me a tasty sounding recipe on Friday that called for crescent rolls, so I sent Fred to get them for me. he had to go to the WalMart in Eden anyway so I asked him to pick me up two cans. He did, and I just put the bag in the fridge when he got here with it. The recipe called for cream cheese beaten with sugar and vanilla and spread over one rolled out can of crescent rolls and then covered with the other can; sprinkled with a little butter and sugar and cinnamon. Well, I got the cream cheese mixture made and opened the first can of rolls; spread it out and started to roll it when I caught a hint of garlic. Then I looked at the empty can and he'd picked up GARLIC crescents instead of plain! So, a hasty trip to Old Dutch was in order. But, finally got it made and cooked and it was so delicious. The pastor ate two, maybe three slices as did his wife and daughter. I should have made a pot of coffee to go with it; just didn't think in time. But, the recipe said it would make 12 slices; I cut mine a little smaller in case somebody didn't like it there wouldn't be any waste. But, everybody, even Fred loved it. Thanks Cindy! Maybe we can make one for Thanksgiving dinner!

Brr..........cold start to yard sales. But, there were a few and I got some pretty good stuff. I especially like the church sales because they have really good prices. Fred got new pants and two matching ties and Tommy got me an Eddie Bauer jacket that was new, still in the wrapper, that is so warm.

Don't know what was wrong with Tommy, tho. He only did 3 Uueeys! Maybe his navigator was doing a better job this week? But, even tho the cold made the sales sort of sparse, I still had fun.

Tommy was up this weekend and after I got home he called me to come get him and Chad (he'd spent Thursday with me but had gone to Chad's house after Chad got out of school on Friday.)So, I picked the boys up and they informed me that Grant, another friend was coming over. That's ok because Grant is a well mannered lil--6'2", 14 year old. And, he calls me G'ma, too. They wanted to go to WalMart, so Fred and I took them. I made sure Tommy and I both had our phones so I wouldn't be searching for them like I did last time. But, no problems. We got what we went after and they got their stuff and we came home. I fed them again and they did their game stuff in the den and we had another sleepover. Cause Cindy and Charlie came up to go to the Beer Fest. Then on Sunday I cooked lunch but Cindy left before it was finished and Grant's mom came and picked him up before lunch, so I had a lot of chicken and not a lot of eaters! But, Fred did do something to Cindy's car that fixed a light and she got her inspection sticker. So, I think that was about it for the weekend. Oh, I had to take Tommy back to Stoneville and then it was over!

Last week was rainy and we only went to one church yard sale and it was so miserably cold and wet that we just went on back home. Today was a different story. It was plenty cold at 7:05 AM, but I had on my long johns under my yard sale jeans and a sweat shirt and my thermal lined hoodie that Danny gave me a couple of years ago; and if the wind hadn't been blowing like March it wouldn't have been too uncomfortable.

We headed out to Stateline Baptist church first cause church yard sales tend to be inside and usually have good stuff cheap. However, when we got there they weren't having it. But, we did go to Christ the King Episcopal church on 41 and they were having theirs. Tommy bought some kind of shelf inside and then they directed us to clothes hanging under a shelter across the parking lot. And, they were free. Fred got three shirts, Tommy got some for Danny and maybe for himself and I got a very nice hooded jacket with a good fleece lining that actually fit.

In between churches we went to several more out that way and I bought a beautiful painting of a lighthouse. The lady said it was actually painted at Myrtle Beach for her dad and painted to match the color scheme in the room he wanted to put it in. Tommy bought me a couple more pictures, found a dream catcher for Rebecca's friend, bought new shoes for baby Brooklyn. Oh, I picked up a book at one and asked the lady how much and she sold me the whole bag for one dollar! And, I hadn't read any of them.Fred found a nice pair of blue Dockers(pants) to go with the free shirts he got at the church.

Tommy's driving was sort of subdued today; he only did about 6 real Uueeys and a couple of what Danny called forced Uueeys(turn arounds in a cul de sac). In spite of the cold we had a good time and got home kinda early.

Rebecca and her friend Dustin had come up last night as did Emily and when we got home they were all still asleep. Finally got them up and fed so they could back to Stoneville. The reason they were still sleeping is cause they stayed up really late. I think Emily was in here making mac and cheese at about 4AM this morning.

Later this afternoon, Fred and I went to my pastors house because we'd been invited for supper. After making 3 or 4 Uueeys on Kemper Rd. Ext. we finally found the house. i didn't recognize it because the shutters had been painted a different color since I was there last. And, last time I was there it was a sunny morning not a getting dark evening. Sally had cooked the most delicious lasagna; green beans with ham; fried apples and home made pizza. I took the dessert and we all enjoyed that. Actually, we had dessert and talked for a while and then they had dessert again. I only ate one dessert because I pigged out on the real food.

Now we're home and Fred is making Geraldine's fudge. He's already made one pan and is working on another one. Then, I'm gonna "Fall Back" and Then get ready for bed. I'm pooped!!

Had a great week end. Started with a cool, early Saturday of yard sales which to my surprise yielded some good buys. Got a really nice glass pot with a top which can also be a pie plate. A movie I hadn't seen; some new kitchen towels that you hang on your fridge door; a crazy mug; other things--too much to remember! They were over kinda early and we came home and we unloaded and I made breakfast for Susan, Fred and me and cleaned up the mess and ran to Food Lion to pick up something I'd forgotten that was necessary for the fixing of Richard's birthday dinner.

Came back home and cleaned off dining room table and then started working on the dinner. I'd already made the dessert and salad on Friday evening so I only had to do the main stuff. It all got cooked and Richard, Danny and Tommy got here right on time and we ate and put a candle on the dessert and sang to him and he opened his present and a little later they left.

Today we went to church and when I got home had planned to eat leftovers for lunch cause I had plenty. But, then the G'kids started showing up. First,Rebecca and Tommy; then Emily, Sarah and Chad.But,Sarah left before lunch so it only left 6 of us to eat. So, I think everybody had enough. Then Rebecca told me that Hunter and a couple more friends were on the way up! And, by then (I'd just got the dishes washed up)Tommy was hungry again and we had to make a Taco Bell run. Sometimes I wonder where he puts it all! Anyway, I asked Hunter if he wanted dessert, so he and one of the boys finished off the dessert; which, was ice cream sandwich cake made with cool whip, cherries and pecans. The other boy is allergic to nuts so he didn't eat any.

When we got back Bobby and Teresa were here; Bob had a desk top computer that Rachel didn't use any more so he sold it to Fred and they'd brought that over. Then, a little later the kids left and Bobby and Teresa left and Fred left so here I am; worn out, just about ready for bed and the start of a brand new week.

Where to begin? Well, maybe with the weird part. I was tired Friday evening and decided to go to bed early. Emily had come to get Chopper for the weekend and Susan was out, so I was upstairs in my bedroom alone. At least, I thought. I had taken my nice murder mystery up and read for a while and then said my prayers and settled down to sleep. Just as I was almost asleep, I heard the most blood curdling sound. It seemed to come from one of the closets on the wall opposite my bed and I gathered my wits and opened the door and Nothing! So, I went back to bed and it happened again. It sounded like loud water running along with a few beating sounds and some murmurings. I really can't describe it, but it was frightening. So, I got up and looked in the other closet and again Nothing. I finally covered my head with my pillow and went to sleep.

The next morning was yard sale day and when the brothers showed up along with Fred, I told them about it. Imagine my surprise when Richard said, "Yeah, last Wed. night we sat in the parking lot at the church and saw a lot of chimney sweeps go down your chimney." So, all that scary noise was birds? In my chimney? So, guess who gets a call first thing Monday morning? Yeah, Spanky, the jack of all trades.

Now the wacky. I don't know what kind of "joy juice" the brothers had before they picked me up, but everything said or done was hilarious. And, they infected Fred! I laughed at those nuts til I nearly cried. Tommy did at least seven Uueeys; maybe more. I lost count when we got to a STOP sign and Danny says " STOP; that means State Trooper Out Peeing". Of course that set the boys off again. But, we really did have a good time. I wasn't looking for anything in particular, but found a really neat little dark wood two shelf book case for the den. It's perfect for my lamp and can also hold odds and ends on the shelves; since I already have a big book case in there. Also a couple of butterfly items for the cashier at Old Dutch who loves butterflies. A book of short stories, a new, hand knit shoulder warmer for a lady at church,and a couple of other things.At one sale this lady had a beautiful real Tiffany lamp that Tommy bought and Richard got a bunch of Christmas decorations there, too. And, I got a $19.95 antiquey looking Santa for a nickle. I tried to get her to take at least a quarter, but she wouldn't. At another a lady had a gallon size Tupperware pitcher and I asked her how much and she gave it to me. All in all, a good day.

I had been fretting about teaching my Sunday School class all the week, so I spent some more time last night reading over it one more time and I think it went off all right. The preacher said I did good and one of the guys said I did really well and that he enjoyed it. So, that's over til next time Larry goes on vacation.

Today was the third Sunday and Fred and I go with the 'frozen chosen'(The Presbyterians) to sing at Abington House, a retirement home. And, I heard another great sermon. That preacher is really good! Then when we left, Tommy said to follow them to the open house at God's Store House. I was really impressed with the spacious facilities and the people who staff it. It's got to be a BIG improvement over the old building on Westover Drive.

Then, Fred and I went to WalMart so he could get some bread and milk and we came home and he watched a Scooby Doo movie and I baked some chocolate chip cookies. We ate some of them with coffee(me) and Mello Yello(him) and he got his stuff together and now he's on the way home for another week of dirty work. But, he loves it, so I guess a little dirt is OK. Ain't nothing like loving your job!

When we went to eat Sat. we asked the boys to go, but they had already had grilled cheese sandwiches, so didn't want to go with us. When we got home there were piles of what seemed to be Chopper poop in the front hall in front of my bookcase. Of course, I started fussing about him jumping his barrier. When I got to the dining room, there were more lil turds everywhere. I was really fuming when I got to the kitchen and saw the dawg sleeping peacefully in his lil bed. By then I was on a roll and when I finally let up, all the boys were laughing like crazy. They had made(Tommy's idea) imitation poop out of a brown paper towel roll. Wet it and formed it into very real looking doggy poop! These boys!! Really good imaginations!!

I think I wrote about making the potato soup and I thought after the second bowls, maybe they would be full. But, about 9:45 or 10PM Tommy comes in and says "G'ma, we're hungry again and if I order a pizza online I can get one free." So, he tried to get the order in, but due to some computer glitch, he ended up calling Domino's. But, when Tommy explained that he'd tried to order online to get the special the guy said this once he could get the special.

We all put some money in and a while later the phone rang and I answered it and a woman's voice wanted to know where I was on No. Main that she was on the way. I told her that we were in the white house beside Wrenn Yeatts funeral home and the porch light was on. She parked in front and I took the money to the door and after we exchanged money for pizza she asked me in a most serious voice, "Do you worry or ever have trouble with the funeral home being right next door?" I told her no that my son was part owner and they also owned my house. She then wanted to know if we ever had any "para normal" happenings. I assured her that we hadn't but later after she left and I thought about it I wished I'd told her when she asked about the funeral home that "My son sees dead bodies all the time and I hear voices in the night calling me "mama are you awake"(Susan when she needs to ask me something before she goes to work.)

This morning in Sunday School class the lesson was about people having words with each other and having arguments. We have a couple who have been married for over 60 years and Larry asked the lady half if they'd ever had an argument; she laughed really hard and her husband said, "Yes, we've had words, but I don't ever get to use mine."

Ginny came to get Tommy at 5PM today and Chad left a few minutes later and then Fred left at 6PM and Susan just left so now I'm here all by myself. Think I'll eat some of that good soup somebody sent me and read one of the books I bought at yard sales yesterday. Oh, Cindy left about 4PM, but said she might try to get back up in a couple of weeks. Hope so, we had fun yesterday!

My cousin Tamara Talbott from Gretna emailed me and said she wanted to come by for a while Wed. morning and catch up since we hadn't talked in person since May, so I cleaned up a little and made a pot of coffee and she by and we talked and drank the pot dry. Later that same day I went to Eden to see Tommy's school play soccer against Morehead of Eden. Tommy is on the JV team and they played a good game and won. I didn't stay to see the varsity game because I don't like driving the Berry Hill road in the dark.

Friday afternoon my phone rang and a sweet lil voice said "G'ma Maxine, this is Megan. I'm coming that way with a friend; is it OK if we stop for a visit?" Of course it was OK so I made some fresh tea and washed up the dishes and about 5PM the dog started barking like crazy so I went to the door and there they were. She was with a co-worker at ODU and they sat and talked about some of their on job experiences and drank tea. Later in the afternoon Tommy got here as did his friend Grant and they picked up Chad and went to the GW football game, went by Taco Bell and got food and then Cindy picked them up there and brought all three here for the night. Oh. I forgot to say that Cindy also came up Friday so she could go to yard sales with us.

Got up early this morning and then Fred showed up and at 7AM, dark and cold, Tommy, Richard and Danny showed up. We followed the brothers in Cindy's car. I think we did 5 Uueeys all together, but in spite of them, we had a fantastic day. Bought a lot of stuff; found some things I had looked for all summer and a lot of things that just caught my eye. Got new, with tags still on them Pjs and a shirt; 2 more temperature forks,notepaper,padded box for knee highs,(least that's what I use mine for) books for me and Miss Virgie at church, place mats,2 beautiful baby dresses,recipe book,and lots of other stuff--so much I can't even remember and I still had a dollar left when I got home! Oh, also a cast iron skillet I'd been looking for for Bobby. Just a very good yard sale day. And, when the sun got up it got warm and we all shed our hoodies.

When we got home and put the stuff away I had to make a grocery run; which we did. Then I made potato soup for the boys and they ate and a little while later they ate again and now Tommy is ordering two pizzas! !4 and 15 year old boys have bottomless pits for stomachs. But, they are so sweet and well behaved. Love'em so much--all of them even the ones who aren't G'sons!

Well, it didn't rain last night or this morning so Tommy didn't have to contend with anybody's wet kitty. Fara came Friday and stayed over to go with us to yard sales. That meant we had to take 2 cars because Fred also went and that's 6 grown up folks in a 4 seater van. So, we--Fara, Fred and I followed Tommy, Richard and Danny.

It was brr-chilly at 7:15AM. We wore hoodies which would have been OK except for that bodacious wind that would not stop. At the first yard sale we came to, I bought a nice, plaid wool flannel shirt that I wore over my hoodie the rest of the day. And, while it was an XL; it definitely kept me at least warmer; and it looked pretty good, too.

Fara had a list of things she was looking for; I think she actually found some of the stuff. I didn't have a list this week, but bought some pretty things and some nice things. I think everybody bought something; I know I got quite a few things that I could use--a like new flat griddle that matches another pan I bought back at the beginning of the season. Some picture frames, pj pants, jewelry, a pin for a lady at Old Dutch. A hand carved walking stick; some nice shirts, some new -with tags still on them-mats for the kitchen; and Fred bought me some really neat lighthouse place mats.

This was the weekend for the Callands potpourri so there were lots and lots of them out on Rt. 41. So many that we only stopped at the ones on the right hand side of the road except for the last one which was at Margaret's house. Her, her daughter Shannon and her husband Johnny; Shannon's daughter Robin and some friends had a BIG yard sale; It was just about like 'old home week' because Fara ran into the guy she went to the prom with (Margaret's son, Joey); Richard knew most of the others who were guys and gals he'd grown up with. We talked and laughed and reminiscenced about old times and 'the good old days'. A fun sale, to be sure!

We always have a running total of the Ueeys that Tommy does on any given Saturday. Today, he had competition because Fara was gonna keep up with him. The total was Tommy 6 and Fara 5, but, Fara and I didn't count the one in a parking lot as being a true Ueey, because there was no element of risk in the parking lot. So, I'd have to call it a draw!

One yard sale had a lot of good stuff---it was a fund raiser for a church out that way and they had lots of new stuff that had been donated. They also had had somebody with a dog come by because the dog had left a few piles of dog do. Or, crap, as we call it. And, some had been stepped in; luckily, not by us. Anyway, that's where we bought the new kitchen mats and some other kitchen items. As we left, the genial guy who was hosting the sale hollered, maybe at a passing car--come on by--Arts and Crafts! Fara kinda giggled and said "Yeah, Arts, Crafts and Crap." Which, of course, set us off.

After the yard sales were over, we came back here and dropped Fred off at his truck because he had bought a nice recliner and had to go pick it up. Fara and I went to Food Lion on Westover to get the bread I like that they sell and then on to Ridge Farms and I bought a couple of German Johnson tomatoes for a sandwich later. But, before we did that Fara, Fred and I had lunch at Gina's on No. Main next to Old Dutch and it was so good. Grilled chicken, fried okra, mashed REAL potatoes, pinto beans, rolls, cornbread, tea. And then, the waitress asked if we wanted dessert!

I had wanted to buy some pinto beans to cook with my country ham scraps and when we left Gina's, we went next door to get them. I had completely forgotten that today was the first of the month. We went in and the place was packed and lines went halfway down the aisles. So, we left and as we were going to the car an older, thin man who works there asked,"Couldn't find what you wanted?" I explained that all I wanted was pinto beans, but I didn't want to wait in line forever. He said, "Give me your money and I'll go get them for you." So, I did and he was back in a few with my beans and my change. He also said that when they opened this morning at 8AM, they had 400 carts lined up there in the front and by 8:15 the carts were all in use and by 8:30 they had lines all the way back to the meat dept. The first of the month is definitely NOT a good day to shop at Old Dutch. But, it is my store of choice!

We then came back here and while Fara loaded her car, I made her a "to go" cup of coffee and after she talked to Susan for a while, she left for home. Now, I'm just waiting for her to call to say she's home safely.

A good weekend that I hope we repeat soon!

I had been talking to Deborah Henderson about coming down for a while. Actually, ever since her birthday at the beginning of September. Finally, yesterday we got together. She came down after church and Fred bought the food and cooked dinner for us; except for a couple of veggies I brought home from our church supper Saturday evening.

We sung Happy Birthday to her and she opened her gifts and then she helped me hang some curtains that Fred got when he bought a comforter at a yard sale a couple of weeks ago. And then dinner was ready! And it was very good! maybe I should say delicious! And then I washed the pots and pans and Deborah insisted on washing the dishes.

Then we sat on the front porch and talked about old times while Fred watched TV. And, Chopper was ok with it as long as Fred was in the house. But when he came out for a minute, Chopper jumped his barrier and came out, too. He really fell for Deborah because she fed him some chicken scraps while we were eating. Then, the lil monster snuck upstairs to my room and pooped right beside my bed. If I hadn't gone up there to get a book for Fred to see; I would have had poop all over my bed later because I don't turn my light on when I go to bed. i have enough light from the street lights to see how to turn the bed back, etc.Anyway, that's how my Sunday worked out. We had a good, long visit and I hope she comes back again soon.

The 24th of September will stand out in yard sale history as the day of the wet pussy! Or should I say wet kitty cat? We started out on a dreary, but not yet raining day. There weren't that many sales advertised and Tommy said we'd probably be finished by 9:30 or 10 o'clock. He didn't miss by much--we were finished and back at my house by 10:35AM. But, we found some good stuff!

I bought a brand new, never been worn pair of blue Keds for 50 cents. Also, a good sized Budda for a quarter and the neatest lil red hand cell phone holder; also a quarter. Also, a neat framed picture I gave to Richard that said "Too many wines spoil the cook". Also, the neatest cook book, bought at a church yard sale. It's titled Do Preachers Really Like Fried Chicken? We were riding down the road and I flipped it open to a page 'Cookin' A 'Possum. It was so funny and I was reading it out loud when Tommy slowed the van and said "There's one; Oh, it's a little too flat." And sped up again.

By the time we got to a pop up on Franklin Turnpike, it was raining off and on, but we all had hoodies with hoods that we pulled up, so we were OK. We all piled out and there on the end of a table was the cutest, tiny lil kitty that was so wet. It was only a quarter so I bought it with the notion that I would add it to Deborah's birthday present since she loves cats. Of course, when I got back in the van I tried to wipe it dry and Tommy made a comment about my wet kitty; but, with a leer in his voice. And, of course, Richard and Fred had to snicker which only egged him on. Then, I HAD to ask him about the problem he was having with his ASH; which only led to more snickering and jokes.

Last night we had an Autumn dinner at church and I invited the brothers to come and lo and behold, when we got there with my food; Tommy and Richard were there waiting for us. They helped carry it in and I introduced them to the pastor and his wife (they knew everybody else) and after the drinks got there; we had the blessing and proceeded to pig out. But, in the middle of a bite of chicken, Tommmy innocently asked,"Maxine, how's your wet kitty?" Of course, that started Richard and Fred again and the rest of the dinner was eaten with tears running down our cheeks. From laughing so much!! I know, it doesn't sound so funny; I guess you'd had to have been there to appreciate the "innocent" inquiry as to the state of my wet kitty. But, it WAS funny!!

Kelly was off today and wanted to go to yard sales with us so I told her to be here by 7AM. Fred was also going so we had to take my car and follow the brothers and Kelly.

I think a lot of folks decided that rain was going to pour down at any minute and so didn't have their sales; but there were still quite a few. Of course, the ones who have them every single week were by-passed by us cause we've already seen their junk and didn't want it the first time around.

Kelly had a few specific things she was looking for: mixing bowls for her (she found a set); a rug-she found a pretty one for her living room; also a shelf, a deviled egg plate and some new slipper sox. She missed out on the baby clothes and maternity clothes for her daughter because we got to the one with them too late. Fred bought a neck rest and some Beneful dog food for his pup. I bought some of the dog food for Chopper and slipper sox, a 3 disk, new "Learn French while you drive" for Sarah, and something else that I don't remember.

At one sale I saw a turkey hat and showed it to Richard and he bought it for Danny and since the drizzle had started, he wore it the rest of the time. Kelly called it "Uncle Danny's pecker hat" and took a picture of him and put it on her FaceBook. Richard bought a small size kitchen island and a hat that he wore the rest of the day. Don't remember what Tommy bought, but I'm sure he bought something. All in all, a fun day.

After we got back to my house Kelly cut Fred's hair and it looks really good. Also trimmed his eyebrows and moustache. And, we ate potato soup and ham sandwiches. Then Kelly left and Fred and I went to WalMart and Goodwill and the Salvation Army Thrift store looking for a gold pillow for a chair I want to put in my den to sort of match my gold sofa. Needless to say, didn't find one! Then for supper we ate sausage gravy and biscuits and that's about it. Watching TV and eating icecream now. Well, Fred's eating icecream; I'm on the computer.

Where to start? Let's see. Tommy got here about 5:30 and a few minutes later I went to pick up Chad. Of course they were hungry so I heated some potato soup and made sandwiches for them. They had sodas with their food and for about 45 min. everything was OK. Then one asked if they could have more soup and another sandwich; so they ate all over again. Then they proceeded to dismantle an Xbox that Tommy had gotten in the mail that day. They spent the rest of the evening first working on and then playing with the Xbox. Since I was going to bed a lil early so I could get up to go to yard sales; I went on upstairs. When I came down Sat. morning at 6AM, the sink was full of dirty dishes and pans. They had decided to cook and eat a frozen pizza.

The yard sales were fun! Fred got here right at 7AM and Tommy and Richard drove up shortly after. Danny had strained his back some way and he didn't feel like going. We really missed him cause he was the unofficial door opener for us. Don't know how many sales we went to, but I found a lot of the stuff I was looking for and after looking the whole summer, Fred found his GREASE CAN! And, only $1.50! We went to some good sales and then we went to some that were really nasty! Nasty stuff drug out and not at all appealing. But, like I said; I found some things I had been looking for and that was good. I think Tommy only made about three true Ueeys. A record!

When we got home, Tommy and Chad's friend Grant came over and of course they were hungry so I heated the last of the potato soup and made sandwiches for the boys and Fred. Then they wanted to go to the mall. I dropped Chad off at his house so he could shower and change his clothes; went back and got him and dropped them off at the mall. I told them to call me if they wanted a ride to the movies.

After the movie they came back an you guessed it! They were hungry. Seems that popcorn and candy at the movies didn't fill them up. So,Fred ordered two pizzas and they ate. Don't know what time they went to bed because after Fred went home, I went to bed. They were asleep when I left for church and when I got home Tommy had made Chinese fried rice for them. Tommy likes to cook and stir fry and fried rice are his specialties. And, Chad washed the dishes!

After dinner Grant's dad came and picked him up and I cleaned up some of the mess. About then Kerri called and was on her lunch break so I invited her to come over and have some lunch. Finally got the kitchen cleaned up and about then Ginny showed up to pick up Tommy and when he left, Susan took Chad home. So, then it was sort of peaceful. But, a good weekend!

I told you about the good yard sales on Saturday and the things we found that Cindy had requested we look for, so then we had to get them to her. I called and checked to make sure she'd be home, so after church and lunch on Sunday, we took off. Fred was the designated driver since I really don't like driving on I 40.

We had gone to see her last spring and Fred drove then, but I really think "they" re-arranged the road since then. We left here and went down 86 and made the correct turn onto 40, but, somehow we missed another turn that would keep us on the direct path to Raleigh. We ended up in Mebane! I had asked her to call Tami and tell her we were coming, so Tami, Hayley and Mr. V got there right after we did. They had stopped and bought food and Tami brought me half a sandwich and Mr. V had bought the biggest muffins I've ever seen. We sort of sampled a couple of them and I ended up bringing the rest of them home with me. Yummy!

Cindy had made little squash quiches and tomato jam and she gave me four to bring home along with a small jar of the jam. That's what I had for supper tonight and it was so good.

Today we got up early and Fred bought me breakfast and then we went shopping at all the thrift stores that were open. The Goodwill in Eden has atrocious prices; I mean I found a lamp I liked that sort of matched a yard sale lamp I'd bought earlier and the price was $8. I only paid $2 at the yard sale and that lamp was much nicer. So, we went to the Goodwill in Reidsville. I found a lamp there for $3 that looks really good in my den and the base matches my lampshade. Fred found one pair of jeans to work in and some bedroom slippers. Then we went to Dollar General for coffee and trash bags and toothpaste and a few other necessities. Then we came back to my house and had a bit of supper and he left cause 5:30 comes early and he wanted to get in bed early.

A good weekend, but now I'm ready to watch a new episode of 'The Closer' and then 'Rizzoli and Isles'. When I remember all the stuff I forgot, I'll do an add-on!

Fred said to tell everybody who reads this that we really had fun today. However, with only two pairs of eyes watching for signs instead of five pairs; we missed quite a few.

Friday when he came up he took me out to eat and of course I wanted to go to Stateline Diner. The owner took our order and when Nicole, the waitress, came by our booth and she stopped to talk and told us that as of 3PM today (Sat.)they would be closing. Then the owner came by and stopped to talk and said that the whole parcel--the diner, those lil houses and apartments had been sold and the new owner said she could stay there IF she paid the $10,000 property tax, the utilities for everything and the $400 a month dumpster fee! Needless to say, she refused that offer. So, in about 6 to 8 weeks they'll be re-opening a bit further back down the road in the former Frank's Pizza location. I think it's pretty close to the fire station out there. But, we'll find it cause that's the only place that makes GOOD confetti and good chicken livers and fried okra. So, until then, guess I'll have to make my own!

The brothers were out of town today so I had to look up the yard sales on the computer since I didn't have a Piedmont Shopper. Following the example of Richard, I made a grid of the four sections with the most sales and since there were only a couple that started at 7AM, we didn't leave until about 7:20.

The two 7AM ones were on the other side of town on Ridge St. We located the first one and bought some really nice packs of stationary and matching envelopes for only a quarter a pack. Then we looked for the other one, but couldn't find it so we went on to Va. Ave--a different one from the other one we usually go to. This was a couple who were gonna get married and were trying to downsize before they moved in together. While we were over there we went to a couple of "pop ups" in the area.

Then we decided to go up Westover and boy were they good ones! I found everything I was looking for-shoes and blender for Cindy, dishes for Fara,a Cowboys duffle bag for Emily's trip to see her favorite team play. A Betty Boop bag and nighty for Susan, a Pocahontas movie for Rebecca,a turquois pendant for Rachel, A book for Anna Leigh, 4 books for me,and a lighthouse shirt. Fred bought a clock and new belt and a cushion for his truck seat. Oh, a beautiful Timex clock--the kind with the glass dome and the little things that revolve on the bottom. Only, this one chimes on the hour. It's so pretty! Oh,Fred also bought a new lighthouse refrigerator towel for me, and a new(with tags still on them)pj pants and top.

What was so odd, we didn't even find all of the ones on and off Westover, but there were so many pop ups that we spent almost all our shopping time there. We finally decided to go to the north side and went to Audubon Drive, and then out 41 to Vicar Rd. Oh, I forgot--going out Westover we passed that black church on Barret St. and I mentioned that they always had good yard sales but they hadn't had one this year. On the way back down the road--guess what? The whole parking lot was full of tables and racks and people. We stopped and I got a pair of jeans (the kind where you pay a fortune for the holes already in them)I think Old Navy or Gap AND another pair of new shoes for Cindy! One dollar each!!

So, we had a very productive day; found everything I had orders for and lots I didn't and had some money left when I got home. Oh, just so you know(you know who) I did THREE Ueeys!!!!

Today Sarah came down and a little later Emily showed up, so I decided I'd fix something really good for supper to go with the leftovers I had. I'd gone to my neighbor Chris's garden earlier and got some basil so when I made my tomato pie, I had fresh basil. It's amazing the difference in the taste of fresh and dried.

I got all my leftovers out of the fridge and heated what needed to be hot and just emptied the salads in bowls. We had cabbage and 'taters, chicken cobbler, slaw, macaroni salad and two other pasta salads and potato salad and the tomato pie. Most everything was eaten except I did have a couple slices of pie left. No more leftovers in my fridge! Don't know what I'll have to eat tomorrow. :(

For my birthday I got a $25 gift card for Food Lion. I needed a few things so I decided I'd get my coupons together and go today. I had found most of what I was looking for when Emily came out from the back where she was working and helped me find the rest of what I had on my list. When i got to the checkout and the guy rung me up I had bought $25.58. Pretty close, huh?

Then about 5:30 my phone rang and it was Tommy S. He wanted to know if I had any bows for a gift for his granddaughter who is having a B'day this weekend. He also said Richard was sending me something. And, Richard did! Two slices of delicious turkey breast, cabbage and potatoes cooked together with slaw on the side and macaroni salad. I had already decided to eat some of the eggplant/tomato provencal that Fara had brought me. So I fixed one of my divided plates and heated what needed to be hot and poured some tea and ate a really good supper. Oh, also had some loaded baked potato salad along with that! My stomach is full to popping, but I feel good!!!! Thank you Richard and Fara!!

"They" kept saying we would be getting wind and rain from Hurricane Irene and Tommy and the brothers were sort of hesitant about going out and Danny kept saying that everybody would cancel. Some did, but some didn't. Actually had a good time and bought a few things. Richard bought me a whirly gig for my deck and I bought a cute lil piggy bank. The guy actually put a quarter in it and then charged me a quarter for it, so I guess I got it free.

Fred bought a biscuit cutter and a crock pot that didn't work, but he really just needed the top off it for one he already had. So, I guess that was good.

Tommy only did one Ueey and we were home by 10:30! So, we had breakfast and then went to the Eden flea market where I bought the deodorant and the make up I like for only a dollar each and no sales tax. Also went into the Mexican produce store and got three nice tomatoes(to make tomato pie tomorrow) for only a dollar; also no tax. So, even tho the yard sales weren't so good, the flea market and the Eden Dollar Tree sort of made up for it. All in all, a fun day. Ended with hotdogs and chips and watching crime shows on TV!

Fara, Deborah and I had been planning a girl's day out since January. But, every Thursday in Jan. and Feb. it either snowed or iced in Mechanicsville, Martinsville or here. Finally we got to have it today. And, what a day it was!

Fara got here about 9:30 or 9:45; unloaded her cooler boxes of goodies:ham biscuits, cheese biscuits, ham salad, tuna salad, chicken and pasta, chicken cobbler, peach bread pudding, and several other containers of that good food from Ukrops. She made a bathroom run and looked at my plants on the deck and in the yard. Then called Deborah again and she said she'd meet us at Ollies.

We got there and checked out the children's books and she bought a bunch of them for the Children's Hospital in Richmond. Then we looked at stuff for us. Bought different kinds of crackers, M&Ms, chicken seasoning and salad dressing in a double pack, pickles, etc. Then Deborah showed up and we had to look at some of the stuff over again. They had some really interesting things today; a long tray like thing you could use for wet shoes in the vestibule or as a pet food dish holder or; as Fara and Deborah decided: a plant tray. I might go get me one tomorrow; they're kinda neat.

When we checked the time it was nearly 1:30. So, we went by McDonalds and got a caramel frappe with an extra shot of expresso. Mmmmm, good! Then, we went to Goodwill. Spent a while there and picked up a lot of stuff. Today was a good day for Goodwill! Then, on to lunch at Stateline Diner. Ate for a good while; Everybody got something different,Deborah had a vegetable plate and Fara had veggies and confetti. Me? I just had confetti! First time in a long time, too.

Then back to the parking lot at Ollies to get Deborah's car. We had so many places we'd planned to go, but time just crept up on us and Fara had to leave for home so she wouldn't be so late getting there. Deborah stayed a little while and had a glass of tea with me and I gave her some plants I'd repotted for her AND she had me a Birthday present. A new shirt, a neat basket, a framed sampler, a lighthouse mug, a beautiful pillow cover and two prints I can frame. Right now I'm waiting for both of them to call and say they're home. 'Course, I forgot to give Deborah my phone number so she'll have to FB me and let me know. Well,Fara just called. She's home; one down and one to go.

Every time I come down Claiborne Street and pass that glass front house right below the church, I always wonder what happened there. I remember several years ago a group of guys were playing poker, gambling or something and someone came in and shot one of the guys. I heard about it on the radio once and never heard another word about it.

I don't know why, but I always thought the guy that was shot was this kinda short guy with brown hair and a brown mustache that I used to see every week at yard sales. After the shooting I never saw him again until this past Saturday. Then, lo and behold, I looked up and saw him. Older, gray hair and mustache, but definitely the guy I thought was dead. So, I wonder who was shot and why the house is always for rent. Maybe it's haunted????

As I said, we had a wonderful time and the brothers were in a crazy mood. I had a bag of peanut M&Ms that Susan had given me. I don't particularly like peanut ones, so I had them in my fanny pack and when I remembered them I asked if any of them liked them and both Tommy and Richard did. So, I handed them to Richard and he opened them and ate a hand full and then said, "Oh, the green ones make you horny." Ohhh? So, he proceeded to eat the candy shell and the chocolate off the M&Ms and offered the newly licked peanuts to anybody that wanted them! He didn't get any takers! But, he did pass the bag to Tommy so he had some fresh unlicked ones! Doesn't sound so funny in the writing, but was so funny in real time.

Got up at usual time; got my shower and breakfast and went to church. Fred went with me and we had an installation service with a guy from the district which took up a little time and then the pastor preached and even tho we had a new clock up at the back that he could see; he still went a little bit over. Then, the former board had to meet with the guy from the district.

Finally got out and then Fred just had to go to WalMart to get some coca-cola even tho he had just bought some yesterday! I really had to go to the bathroom and was so hot and miserable in my church clothes. Well, when we got to the parking lot, there was Cindy's car, but since she was off last week I'd been sort of expecting her to come by sometime. I stopped in the basement to feed the cat and we went on upstairs. THEN, when I opened the door to the dining room all these people started yelling Happy Birthday! I was so surprised! Of course Betty had her trusty camera out making pictures; and maybe somebody else had a camera; I was so flustered that I don't remember.

Let me see: Richard, Danny, Tommy, Keister, Laura, Bob, Teresa,Rachel, Jennifer, Margaret,Emily, Josh, Chad, Rebecca, Tommy, Hunter, Dustin, Douglas, Susan, Cindy, Fred, Dave, Kerri, Brittany and Brooklyn. I hope I didn't leave anyone out; if I did, please forgive me. It was such a great birthday! Got lots of goodies; jewelry, a bag of all kinds of goodies from Teresa's mom, Sue. Got a wonderful plaque and book, gift cards from Food Lion and Coldstone Creamery, MONEY And a new laptop!! A truly wonderful birthday and my sincerest thanks go out to all who came AND to the main planner. I love you all!!

Today started bright and early and all the brothers were in crazy, silly moods. When they first got here, Danny had me a birthday present of two containers of his homemade barbecue and two jars of syrup for pancakes, waffles, etc. I had to take that in and put in fridge and then we got on the road.

I don't know what they ate for supper last night, but all three were in that mood where everything is funny whether it really is or not. Then I made the mistake of mentioning a picture I saw in the paper of albino fawn that said the doe was nearby watching over them. Of course that brought on the singing:"Doe, a deer, a female deer; rae a drop of golden sun," etc. And Fred, who was yardsaling with us had to join in so we had a male quartet doing the song from 'Sound of Music'. Not bad at all for an unpracticed, unrehearsed song fest!

I think everybody today bought something except Danny. Fred found a coke shirt and a coke shower curtain. Tommy bought me a nice bread box and Richard bought me a beautiful necklace I'm gonna wear to church tomorrow. I bought three books and a soft fuzzy blanket that I forgot and left in the van; but, I'll get it tomorrow. I don't think Tommy did but two or three Ueeys. I think the navigator was pretty much on the ball today as far as directions went. All in all a good day of yard sales and when we got home I heated up some of that BBQ and Fred and I had a delicious lunch. Thanks again, brothers for a loverly day!

We actually got an early start to go to see Sharon. I had set 8:30AM as starting time and we actually left at 8:35; my fault, too. I couldn't find my phone. But, even with stopping for gas, we got to Fluvanna at 11:15. Count down time, too! After having to wait in line to fill out new forms; pat down and all, we actually started our visit at 12:30.

After our initial hugs and small talk, Tommy started getting food for his mom. This time the machines were pretty well filled and she got to get what she wanted to eat. Chicken nuggets with hot sauce and later, cheese pizza. Also, two kinds of ice cream. It's ridiculous how much they charge for a little cup of ice cream. I told the lady guard who was getting it out that for 9 more cents you could get a whole half gallon! She agreed that the prices were way out of line.

We got to stay until visiting hours were over, which is 3PM. The kids hadn't eaten anything but one bag of chips so after we left there we stopped at McDonald's in Charlottesville and got some food. Then we headed on home. It's funny; I stopped for gas when we left Danville and $40 filled my tank past full; I ran the air all the way up and back because, while it was cloudy and rainy; it was also very hot and humid. And when I got back home, I still had over a half tank of gas. That old Toyota is good on gas on the highway!

We hadn't been home long when Rebecca and Tommy went to pick up Rachel and then went to WalMart so Tommy could get some spray paint so he could do some more of his spray paint art. They'd just got his supplies together when Ginny called Rebecca and told her that her G'pa Fred had had a stroke and was in the hospital. So, they came back here and got their stuff together and took off for home. I worried about her driving in the rain, being upset about her G'pa; but she called me when they got to the hospital. So far, no change in his condition.

We have a new pastor and yesterday was his fourth service and we even had Sunday night service last night. Didn't have but seven show up including the pastor and his wife, but we had a good service. I'm hoping we'll have more next week. Maybe when the weather gets too cold for golf, we'll have more. And, too, it's been so long since we had Sunday night service that folks probably forgot all about it. Any way, a good time was had by all who attended.

The day started as usual-early! But, if you're going to yard sales, you have to get there bright and early to get the bargains. Richard decided to go after all and Fred joined us, too.

We did the north side first; a couple of pop ups off No. Main and then down to the listed ones. One at the Mexican church on 41 had a couple of heavy urns with shades of blue hydrangeas that Tommy really liked, but the guy was asking $10 for the pair. Tommy hands me $6 and tells me to go back and ask him if he'd take $6 for the pair. He said he'd take $7. I showed him the six and said in a sad voice,"But, this is all I have." So, Tommy ended up with the urns.

After one, I think on Ridgecrest; Tommy drove to the top of the road and turned-the wrong way. Danny corrected him and so Tommy proceeds to do a double uewee; not once, but at least 4 times. Of course, you know that a double uewee is a complete circle. So, there we are on the top of the street slowly going in circles! It was funny at the time. I guess it's a good thing that it wasn't a busy street!

I didn't spend much today, only $1.25. But, I didn't really see a lot I was interested in. And, some of the stuff was seriously overpriced. Of course, if I had been looking for lil girl or boy clothes or baby stuff I could have racked up. Some folks had really good children's stuff. But, what I hate is when you ask the price; they tell you and then tack on "But, I paid so and so $ for it." Who cares? The object is to get rid of junk you don't need or want; not to make a living from it!

But, I think Tommy and Richard picked up some good stuff and we did have fun even tho it was getting on towards HOT when we stopped. Maybe next time I'll find what I've been looking for all this time. Who knows? (Oh, only the Shadow knows...........)

Got an early start. Kelly, my blue eyed daughter, was here by 6:45 and the brothers got here soon after that. Don't know how many sales were on the grid Richard had made, but we didn't get finished 'til about 1PM. Went to lots and lots of sales; Tommy only did about 4 uuewies, which is a record of sorts. Usually, he does many more cause we'll be going in one direction and see a sign or a sale and have to turn around.

Every yard sale day is fun, but we really had a fun time today. I sat on the hump in the van and by the time we got finished, it was pretty well filled up. The back, I mean. The boys bought , I think, 4 Christmas trees and some decorations and a beautiful wreath. Not a Christmas one, just an oval shaped one with flowers and a lil greenery. Of course, they bought a bunch of other stuff, too; but the trees took up the most room.

We went to one and the lady had stuff in the yard and on the car port and also some stuff in the house. Phew!! we went into the kitchen and it smelled to high heaven of dog pee. Couldn't wait to get out of there. Didn't buy anything there! Went to a church sale and they had some pretty good stuff. Bought a heavy green bowl with the measurements inside like a measuring cup; but was a bowl. The lady said it was real old. It's definitely different. Just hope it doesn't get dropped and broken. Oh, I have 2 Brita water pitchers and the filters cost $8 each. I found a box with 2 for $2.

Kelly was looking for a hand mixer and Richard uncovered two on a table at a sale.I got three shirts, some Coke dishes, three books and a bible reference book that will help you find any phrase in the bible. It's very interesting. Also got 4 mugs and a couple of Care Bear glasses. Danny bought lots of movies and Tommy pickes up a dvd player and remote and Richard got an electric shaver, I think. Any way, we all got good stuff and a good time was had by all.

Then, we went to Stateline Diner and Kelly and I had confetti and Richard and Tommy had cheeseburgers and fries and Danny had the omelet plate. Tommy's son Jason came by while we were eating and had a cheeseburger and fries. He was working and just stopped by for lunch. They make the best tea there; tastes just like what I make here at home.

After I got home I washed up all the glass and pottery and put the shirts in the washer and then I went with Rebecca to the nail place in the mall to get her nails repainted. Then she bought me a lime drink at Taco Bell and now we're here alone. I think. I hear Chopper having a fit at something altho I didn't hear the door bell. All in all, a very good day!!

Today was Pastor Wayne's last Sunday with us. He used Romans ch. 8 v.22-25 as his sermon topic. Seems Friday evening he went on his usual 4 mile walk on Rt. 29 and since it was a nice evening and not too hot decided to do an extra 2 miles. And, as he was walking along he found a 20 bill lying folded up there on the side of the road. Oh, the title of his sermon was "The Extra Mile."

I'm really going to miss him. He's such a good preacher; preaches right from God's word and doesn't mince words; which might be why some of the folks didn't like him and left the church.

He did such a sweet benediction and told us he loved us and said goodbye. But, he's not leaving the area yet so hopefully I'll get to see him sometime.

Got a real early start yesterday morning. It rained on and off up until about 4AM and I was getting worried that we might not get to go to yard sales. But, it stopped and when I got up at 6AM and went to get the paper, it was clear and looking like a beautiful day ahead.

Fred was off yesterday and he came up to go and we drove my car and followed Tommy and the brothers.They all arrived at my back door at the same time! And, off we went.

Tommy bought some good stuff: a pop up canopy like tent and a neat chair and table set for the deck. I bought two white plastic chairs to replace the ones on my deck that are getting crummy and falling apart. The lady had four and I wish now I'd bought all of them. I could have gotten all four for what one costs at the store. And, they are really new looking and sturdy. Also found a nice pair of light blue sneakers and some coin wrappers.(Rebecca needed some of those)Got a glass juicer that might be an antique; but, I got it cause I liked it and it reminded me of one that G'ma Whitt had years ago. I almost bought a tee shirt that said "My boyfriend is a bonehead", but I didn't want to hurt Fred's feelings.

After the sales were over we came home and ate a lil lunch and then I had to go to the grocery store and Dollar General. After that, I made some pretty good corn bread cakes following a recipe in an old cook book I bought last week at yard sales. Paid a whole dime for that lil book and it has some really good recipes in it. It came out in 1959 and is called The Electric Cooker Cookbook. All the recipes were meant for electric skillets, deep fryers, electric stoves and slow cookers. I cooked my beef for dinner today using one of the recipes and my long neglected slow cooker. It was good, too!

Tommy was here for over four weeks and that boy could eat. he left Tuesday evening about 4 and left on his Boy Scout canoeing trip yesterday morning. Then Rebecca popped in this morning at 7AM with two friends, who I hope are leaving tonight. She says she's staying for a week. Then, maybe, I'll have some summer without kids. Don't get me wrong; I love them dearly, but, I would like to have some alone time with Fred or at least be able to watch a movie where it's cool. Speaking of which; it's not really cool anywhere in this house, but the AC in the den does help a little as does the one I put in the living room window. But, you have to be able to go into those rooms in order to reap the benefits.

My laptop started giving me trouble a few weeks ago, but generally I could still use it. Then, the power cord got so bad it wouldn't do anything. When Tami came up a week and a half ago, she took it home with her, but I don't think she could do much with it. Anyway, I miss that laptop cause I kept it in the kitchen where I spend most of my time and now that it's gone I have to use this desk top which is getting a little age on it. And I can't find my outlook express email and so I can't correspond with any body. Oh, woe is me!! Oh well, at least I can blog with this one. Maybe someday????