Hold on. That whirring sound you hear is my mind striving to think of a way to express my gratitude for so many areas of my life. After all, it is Thanksgiving here in America and that is our appointed season of gratitude. It seems easier these days to give thanks than in times past. That statement confuses even me because to someone looking in from the outside of my life, they might think I have nothing for which to be thankful. They are wrong.
When I was a child and Thanksgiving rolled around, I was grateful to be out of school for four days, grateful for the fun of a pile of fall leaves to jump into and the joy of sitting down to a table with so many of my favorite foods and my family. I now think part of my love for this holiday is because it heralds the beginning of the holiday season. Mom would make her cornbread stuffing, and in later years she made two batches so my dear Dad could have his favorite type with oysters in it which many of us thought was disgusting. I came to appreciate it as an adult. I was grateful for the odiferous splendor of the roasting turkey, laughing at my Dad picking at uncooked food in the kitchen while my Mom playfully whacked at him with a spoon. “Bill, you get out of here now.”
I remember making turkey center pieces out of large Idaho potatoes by adding a plumed tail of colored feathers cut from colored construction paper. Cranberry sauce was something that came in a tin can and looked rosy and festive with the rings of the can around it as it was opened and served in a special elongated dish. It always seemed a shame to violate it with a spoon. My mother’s gravy never had lumps in it, although it always was giblet gravy with tiny chopped bits of turkey liver and the other giblets along with a fair amount of the delicate meat from the long turkey neck, which had been simmering on the stove since early morning when her turkey went into the oven. Mom always cooked her turkey upside down so the juices would flow down into the breast making it moist and tasteful. The odors of crisp turkey skin with the saliva inducing whiffs coming from the stuffing with the combined odors of sage, onions and celery. Even now, as I write this many years later I can experience the same sensory sensations of pleasure. Can you smell it, too?
After the turkey came out of the oven and we were nearing the edge of our appetites in anticipation, I recall my dear Dad setting a large tray on the counter beside the turkey. He would fill two large plates with the variety of foods from the stove and refrigerator, helped by my Mom. He loaded that tray to overflowing, never forgetting the pumpkin pie with whipped cream. We all understood that he would take that huge tray of food to an elderly couple he had met through his work. Their name was Mr. and Mrs. Paine. I know they were childless and Dad included them in all the major holiday meals at our house for many years. Apparently they felt more comfortable eating at their house instead of ours and were quite infirmed and began to rely on him to show up.
Through that simple, consistent act of giving, Dad taught me to share our abundance. I was often sick as a child growing up and missed a lot of school. Hundreds of strep infections were always returning as I had it so severely the doctor ordered antibiotics and even specially made topical mouth washes to get the bacteria that would grow into the roof of my mouth. Even with all the sicknesses, I never realized as a child how much I had to be thankful for until the year between 11 and 12 years-old when I had to go to bed for a year due to rheumatic fever. I wasn’t frightened until my Dad would come and sit beside my bed, hold my hand and cry. He was such a tender man. Both of my parents were wonderful during that time and I remember watching I LOVE LUCY on a TV in my bedroom. That may not seem like much but for that period of time it was huge and Lucy brought laughter into my life. I learned a lot about gratitude during that period of my life. I was very grateful when the nurse who took blood every week could get into my vein on the first try while I lay in the back of our car in their office parking lot.
My gratitude extended even more to my Mom when I became a teen and learned to be of more help in the kitchen. My sisters were older than I and may or may not be expected for dinner with us as their own families grew or they moved far away. I am grateful today for mother’s instruction, not always tactful and eventually after I had a home of my own I also became quite a good cook. I think her love for cooking was contagious and I caught it.
As a young woman going off to college, I learned to appreciate my loving home and suffered fierce homesickness my first few months. It seems that life becomes exponentially more complicated as we grow and brings with it a measure of gratitude. Recognizing those times is the key.
Some of the seasons of gratitude in my own life have been the greatest during times of trouble and need. I’ve come to believe that is why spoiled children aren’t very nice people. It takes a certain leaven of want and/or suffering to cause us to have appreciation. Appreciation is the first cousin of gratitude which is a close relative to thanksgiving.
It fascinates me how pain and misery can be graciously interspersed with thankfulness. Like sunshine in the rainy season, it brightens dark times. Detecting experiences to make one thankful requires an open ended sense of appreciation. It can come to you at the most surprising moments. A woman who is being struck can say thank you when the beating ends. A man who is fearful of providing for his family is filled with more appreciation and gratitude than a man who is just moving up the corporate ladder, never knowing the fear of having hungry children. It appears even gratitude is a relative value.
Many of us who suffer chronic pain each day of our lives, often for many years, know how good it can feel when the pain stops, albeit briefly. When the pain is relieved permanently, we often begin to take life for granted and forget to be thankful. Perhaps we try to erase pain from our memories and should instead, hold onto it just enough to appreciate a pain free day. Like a couple in love who direly want to get married and do, they eventually find “the honeymoon is over.” That phrase is part of our lexicon because it is so true. Some things should be remembered.
It appears gratitude and giving thanks is something we need to do again and again. It apparently “wears out” with time. This summer we were without a street and sidewalk for two months. It was difficult. Now we have a road and sidewalk and after two weeks, we are already used to it…again. It has become apparent to me over the years that we mere mortals gain a certain satisfaction from complaining. I wonder why we enjoy it.
It has also become crystal clear that giving thanks can become a habit. It works the muscles of the heart and the spirit and keeps complaining away from the door of our conscience selves.
You can find gratitude in all areas of life; in adversity, in history, in nature and in other living creatures, only to name a few. For instance, just yesterday I read an article about Lewis and Clark who opened the explorations here in the Northwest. The article was about a wretched winter experience they had sleeping out in the elements, rocks falling onto them from the wind and rain, the Columbia on the other side as it emptied into the Pacific. Can you imagine how cold and wet they were those many years ago, paddling about in a huge tree hollowed out to be a canoe? Small wonder they named that small section of southwest Washington “Dismal Nitch,” Dismal indeed. I can’t even begin to understand that misery.
May I ask you to do a favor for me this holiday? Yes? Try saying thank you at the unexpected times in life. I love to do it when I cross the beautiful Columbia River and see a family of ducks floating on the waves in their waterproof layers. I give thanks when my tiny puppy wags his tail at about the same speed as a hummingbird motorized by the simple joys of life. I constantly thank that tiny dog for all the joy he’s brought into my life in a very hectic and frantic summer. All around us are reasons to be thankful. Tripping but not falling can cause us to say thanks. A good visit with our physician in which we both exchanged meaningful ideas or a new medicine that brings relief is only two of the thousands of reasons we have to express our gratitude.
Look my friends and you will see many reasons to give thanks. Then please pause and do just that. I am thankful for all of you. Have a holiday filled with gratitude for all you have, love or have experienced.
Weekly Dose of Sue 
Oh Sue I was drooling at the food discription. Now that mom is gone dad and I go out to dinner for holidays. It’s just not the same but I couldn’t begin to make a meal as standing to cook is too painful and I would have problems with clean up too.
I routinely include what I’m thankful for in my prayers instead of a lot of requests for myself. I’ve got what I want and need. All that it takes for me to realize how blessed I am is to look into Nessie’s eyes. She worked very hard yesterday and today with my infusion and my side effects. I’ve been wobbly today and she had kept an eye on every step I take. My prayer requests are for others with medical issues, family troubles, anxiety and heartache. I’m also blessed with my friends that do care for me and that my dad was a really involved parent during my childhood.
Laura, so glad you have Nessie beside you!
Do you also have a Yorkie named Eddie?
I’m sure it must still feel strange to have one less bowl to fill, but I do believe we will see these precious friends again some day.
Oh dear I got rather discombobulated last weekend I didn’t answer any of the responses from my post last week. The storm here was UGLY. I’ve never heard noises from the wind like that before and I have been through tornados. This area was hit hard and there are still people without electricity, phones or other services that go by wire. When the poles go down everything goes. We have line workers from Texas and Arkansas here in my neighborhood.
I got my friend a rhubarb custard pie which she was tickled to get. They have pumpkin and snicker doodle whoopie pies out right now in addition to chocolate. If you ever saw the soft Oreo cookies that were out those were like mini whoopie pies but the middle filling wasn’t quite right.
Remember that although tiny George is a terrier and you have to make sure he doesn’t try to be king George lol. Yorkies are good at that. Eddie has been kind of naughty getting into trouble with his little you know what and after I crawled around with a jug of white vinegar and a black light to find a source of a smell he is now wearing a belly band. He I might add is not impressed. He also has been picking on Flirt and that has to end too. I know there will be a reordering of the dog pack now that Cupid is gone but he needs to be reminded that I’m the queen “b*^%#” in the pack.
Bobsled, I know all of us will be relieved to hear you made it through the storm, although most I’m certain noted it on FB. It’s a fine thing to see people from other states bring their talents to your aid when your area needs fixing. We used to see that frequently in CA with the forest fires and up here when large storms denude a forest as well as knock over power poles. In time I hope all will be made right.How is your neighbor’s house..the one with the tree leaning onto it?
I am trying to envision a rhubarb custard pie. I love rhubarb pie but have never seen one with custard. I’ll bet the crusts are also marvelous. I remember that you and your Dad eat out most holidays and totally get it. Strangely enough, I don’t stand all that much when I cook. I plan well ahead and oven most of it. Trying to decide how to rearrange some furniture for the holidays to open out our dining room table. I love a holiday table. My china is Royal Albert old country roses. Love all the red and gold with red goblets and golden silverware…can I say that? You know what I mean…flatware. So much of it is about color for me followed by taste and love those leftovers.
I think for me gratitude is more a lifestyle. I don’t think of it in terms of thanks for being given something or an answer to prayers, etc. I see it more as an attitude of appreciation for the many things and occurrences we take for granted or just don’t truly see..
I guess all of these words have different meanings for each of us. So much of life is subjective, isn’t it? Do you and your Dad have a favorite place for the holiday meals. I must agree it sounds much easier.
Sounds like your pack is making some adjustments. I know they are your life and you will straighten it all out in time or watch while they do. Love, Sue
HELLO……SUE, YOU MAKE THANKSGIVING SOUND SUCH A JOY. THERE IS NOTHING HERE IN FRANCE OR THE UK LIKE THAT, DON’T KNOW WHY. I ALSO COOK MY TURKEY UPSIDE DOWN, YES, THE FLAVOUR IN THE BREAST IS AMAZING.
YOUR PARENTS SOUND GREAT, SO VERY DIFFERENT FROM MINE, YOU CONJOUR UP A COSY HOME WITH LOVING PARENTS, A CHILD CAN’T ASK FOR MORE. POOR YOU…A WHOLE YEAR IN BED, BUT MADE BEARABLE WITH A LOVING FAMILY.
ISN’T IT STRANGE WHEN YOU GET PAIN THAT IS SO AWFUL YOU DON’T KNOW HOW YOU WILL BEAR IT, THEN YOU GET A WORSE ONE, AND THE LAST ONE IS NOT SO BAD AS FIRST THOUGHT.
WELL ITS CHOW TIME, AND MY FEET ARE COLD SITTING HERE, I WILL BE LOOKING AT ALL YOUR POSTS ON THANKSGIVING WITH ENVY……………..LOVE TO EVERYONE, TAKE CARE……JENNIE XXXX
Jennie, Wish you could be here to enjoy and celebrate with us all…and to help wash dishes..just kidding. I think we are all formed by our experiences, especially as children but we’re still malleable as adults and can learn what we need to. I think being sick as a child is one of the reasons I am so tired of illness for myself. I always wanted to be a nurse although I dropped it for awhile when I went to college and was a lit major.
Stay warm dear girl. Terrible flu going around over here. Yes, the chicken and turkey breasts are so much better topsy turvy. Do you have dressing..stuffing in France? You probably have something more or equally wonderful. I know you’re already planning your menu for Christmas with Tim and Claire coming, DH’s surgery behind him..you will have so much to enjoy.
You’re so right about pain…worse pain tops previous pain. Enjoy your day. Hope you’re feeling better. Love you, Sue
Jennie:
You will just have to make your own Thanksgiving Day dinner, celebrate WITH us !! 🙂
As Jennie says this thanksgiving seems a great thing
To value what you have now
Like memories that are shared are a security to home into.and then a long gone memory pops up and your parents no longer there to share it with you.seems like they are all layered memories in your life
A picture from when I was small at my GParents house at Christmas .i used to stare at it at the end of the bed..the thought of it brings back such a good Christmas…all make do tho…but the better for that .. it lives on!
It even brings the smell of tangerines in the cold air.just seeing the picture in my minds eye and the expectant and excitedness of the time
The blog .well I did enjoy it sue it provoked thought ,thank you
Be back Chris
Chris, you know, as long as we have a memory, nothing is lost. That let down feeling we used to get as children after a big occasion and even now also have as adults…doesn’t have to be as long as we can relive it. Pictures, films, letters all bring it back but as you say, sometimes it’s an odor or just some random thought, or sight. Nothing ever truly dies. All of life in the physical world is recycled and in memories..bright as ever. I need to go shopping and plan on taking it easy..may need two trips. Hope your Dad and DH are okay. Is GS recovering his loss of the stolen bike? So awful for him. It’s now being re-used or recycled by some thief. May they crash. Later, love you…Sue
Sue you are right about the memories! We paid one last visit to the family cottage before my brother took ownership. I had told him there were a few things I wanted and he understood … after all the family cottage was not going to be just memories to him! I took a set of vintage dishes my DIL, Connor and Neve’s mother, adored! The were rimmed in turquoise, my mother’s favourite colour and had a rose in the middle. I kept them a secret and they became her Christmas present and she squealed with delight when she opened them! For me, I took much less than I thought! A meat platter in my Grandma’s pattern that I c remembered childhood Thanksgiving turkey’s resting on, but most things were left where they belonged, in the family cottage! But the reason I am telling you this story is that my eldest son, daughter-in- law and newborn baby Ella were with us that day and I said to my DIL, “What would you like”? And she replied “Nothing, because I have my memories stored away, and that is all I need, and I will have them forever”.
Sue
My aunt Who is now 94 had rheumatic fever when she was little too,it was, by what they say a worrying time
My gran had rheumatoid arthritis it looks like immune things run in our family .my aunt now has pernicious anaemia..is that an immune thingy too?
Well after all those smells of the kitchens I feel like making some soup.cold weather out so it will be nice to have tomorrow
Out for b.fast tho ,as is usual. .thats if DH ok,not good today close to fainting on tabs.he doubled up the tabs and has decided to take one one nite and two next nite .that way maybe side effects will go….what you think?
Be back Chris
Chris, I don’t think pernicious anemia is an autoimmune disease. Autoimmune diseases like the 100 forms of arthritis are forms of inflammation caused by the body triggering itself for destruction. Anemia is the loss of hemoglobin, the red cells in our blood. I’m certain it could run in families though.
Rheumatic fever was fairly common before many of the antibiotics we now take for granted were available. It’s caused by the bacteria streptococcus aureas and other streps. It effects the heart as the bacteria gets in there and won’t leave. Rest and cortisone were the only treatments when I had it.
As far as DH and those darn B/P meds, I know he’s had a hard time. Does the doctor agree with his taking half a dose? If he feels rotten on the whole dose and felt better on the half, I understand. Does his B/P go back up on the half tab? Only you guys and your doc know what is best. I just feel so badly that he is having such a bad time finding the right meds. Hope your day of rest helped both of you after your outing. Love, Sue
Well he only took the one tablet starting tonite
They upped it to 5mg lisinopril which he took for two nites ,but side effects kicked in so tonite he took the 2.5mg and back on 5mg tomorrow nite then will take 2.5 the next nite
The 5mg got his bp down a bit so don’t know what this regime will do.it is a low dose
Have to see dr I suppose but DH not keen
My dad still the same but his speech is not understandable dr visited today and told him he was very lucky to be alive .he is so weak I don’t think he will get over it all .i remember the dr in hosp saying he will be like this for mths when he comes out .and is at risk of dying even then .
He is either in bed or immobile in a chair..but then he will sit on a chair in the wet room and have a shower.i don’t know how he manages it with the catheter he can hardly move his hands.
Hosp at home still go twice a day.he is disappearing before my eyes tho.then he says he s fine and sounds stronger but I don’t see him being able to go out on his scooter now
My back is like sh.t
Tonie
How’s you goin?
Be bak chris
Chris, my Great-grandma had rheumatic fever when she was 16 years old. oh gee, that would have been in 1894. They cut her hair, I think she said because the meds they gave her would make it fall out. It’s the only time in her life that her hair was cut. She would comb her hair on the front porch. I used to love it when “mammy Josie” let her hair down. It went to the floor, and you could watch the color change, from a golden blond, to a blond/gray mix, then the gray. I told her once that her hair made me think of counting tree rings! She would comb her hair, then put it up in a bun. Even pictures I have seen of her as a young woman, she wore that bun.
We all loved to sit with her on the porch; she would tell us so much “history”. One story she told that will always stick with me was about the first time she saw an airplane. Communication just wasn’t what it is now, and they didn’t know airplanes existed. She said the entire area was together, down on their knees praying; they thought it was Christ’s return. That was the first time I thought about how new innovations would affect those not “in the know” about such things. There is so much the young can learn from their elders if they would just listen. In college, for 2 different classes I had to interview and older adult, I think they had to be 70 or more. A lot of the questions were different, but one question was on both papers. It asked what the interviewee thought was the greatest invention in their lifetime. I’m thinking in terms of TV, movies, talking movies, etc. To my great surprise, both of them said “refrigeration”. Both said it changed the way we shopped and make super markets possible, and made buying ice daily non-essential. To my surprise,that was the one thing both instructors wanted us to answer in class; and invariably every single person interviewed had answered that one question the same way. So, I guess the younger generation takes the important things for granted. Well, I sure meandered all over the place with this post! Love & hugs, Linda
Sue, Just the kind of blog I was hoping for this week. 🙂 My favorite holiday, hands down, for years was Christmas. But these last several years, while I love Christmas, I’m finding I question if I like Thanksgiving more. The true Christmas story and celebration with family and friends is of course central for me, but it is so easily lost in the hustle and bustle and commercialism. I don’t like that. Thanksgiving so far has escaped a lot of that and we can still focus on the reason for the holiday – thankfulness! Sometimes it takes tough times or having something taken away to truly “get” what it means to be thankful. I am thankful every day, and make it a point to find something to be thankful for each day. It’s not really that difficult if you adopt the outlook of looking for something, however large or small, special in each day. Sometimes it’s something big, sometimes small. I love Thanksgiving foods, too, and the loving care with which it is prepared. So many memories, cherished. I think you’ve hit on something, Sue. Thanksgiving does seem to kick off the Christmas season, even though the retailers seem to want to just skip over it anymore.
Bobsled, I so get why you and your dad go out for holiday dinners. The most important thing is time spent together. 🙂 I’ve been blessed with a large enough family to share the cooking, and cleaning up, duties. Please hug Nessie for me. She is such a jewel.
I fear I am or will soon begin rambling. This week has been one of fatigue and brain fog, so if I have already begun the ramble, I apologize. All are in my thoughts and prayers – daily. I am so thankful to have found others who really do “get” what we all go through each day. I appreciate friends, relatives and others who empathize and think they know or are going through something similar, but we are true comrades in arms. We’ll hang tough together! Blessings.
Blessings to you too Lyn.
Lyn, I always enjoy your rambling. I am sorry you’ve had so much fibro fog or RA fog. It is frustrating.
You know I agree with you about living with an air of Thanksgiving. It gives life more of a pleasant tone and appearance. I don’t know how people who moan and groan all the time live with themselves. It somehow makes the world gray. Gratitude opens one’s eyes, don’t you think?
Oh yes, the food. Went to the store today and since they have once again..twice in this year, totally moved everything around in our Safeway, every aisle was filled with lost souls reading the signs overhead. I never did find the baby gherkins.
We are true comrades indeed, like soldiers experiencing battle. I now understand why the whole band of brothers concept is so true. Gyess each of us search each day to find a mix of productivity and rest…creativity and reading what others create. I know you’re a great reader and that’s a source of much of your wisdom..right? Have a fine weekend. Love you much, Sue
Sue:
Great nostalgic blog. I have those memories also. We always slaughtered the hogs on Thanksgiving, because it was cold enough and Daddy was off from work for a few days that are needed to process the meat. So while all the smells were filling the house, Daddy was still working outside. We all sat down to the wonderful meal my mother made. I also got her love of cooking and still use many of her recipes. Turkey, Dressing, the pretty can of cranberry on the special plate 🙂 Green beans, cole slaw, Potatoes, Sweet potatoes, rolls and all sorts of pies and cakes. I simplify it muchly although I do love having the smorgasboard of tasty treats.
Chris and Jenn, I wonder if you know WHY we celebrate Thanksgiving. We are the ONLY country that I know of that has a day just for giving thanks. The Pilgrims who settled here in Mass. had a terrible first winter full of disease, starvation and death from exposure. They just were not prepared for what hit them. The Native Americans came to them (speaking English) and helped them to plant food to provide for them supplying seeds and knowledge of the land. They worked thru the summer and then in the fall when all was harvested, came together with the Natives and had a big celebration dinner to give Thanks for all they had been given and the new friends made. This is what it is based on, that FIRST Thanksgiving. And Lyn it is really surprising to me that nothing is ever said about this holiday and all the prayers and such that it is based on. But for this I am also “thankful”.
I just got home, been gone since 7:30. Two Dr appts, stopped in to see Judy and a bit of shopping (or looking). My shoulders have been Xrayed, I have OA in them and also he said the RA has eat up my cushioning there. I got an injection in the left one and will go back to see him in 2 months. Very nice man, really liked him, and he had a “stew” with him and he was so good with her. My Ra apt went well also. I have lost another 5 lbs (YEAH) and she upped my MTX back to where it was and that will help me. I really like her and it is so good to have one that understands and helps me.
Judy is coming home tonight. Her knee looks so good, not swollen, not red, the scar is turning white already. Well, LOTS to be thankful for each and everyday. Every morning, I ask for help and strength and give thanks Like you said Sue, is not about just saying it once. It is about LIVING gratitude each and every minute we are here. Sounds pompous huh ? Not really it is about attitude, and feeling. I pray you all have a great weekend and feel better if you are sick.
Love
Tonie
Tonie, I just have to tell you that CANADA also has Thanksgiving, but it is a North American holiday. The first Thanksgiving on record in what would become Canada was in 1578, when explorers attempting to pass through the Northwest Passage almost perished, and the clergyman with the expedition held a service of Thanksgiving that their lives had been spared. Many years later the beginning of Thanksgiving in Canada was in Halifax in 1799, giving thanks that after years of conflict, New France had been handed over to the British. After the American Revolution, refugees from the United States wishing to remain loyal to Britain came to Canada, bringing with them their own Thanksgiving customs. Those people were called United Empire Loyalist and they settled in communities in Ontario close to the American/Canadian border and the maritime provinces. Our Thanksgiving is celebrated the second Monday in October, but Thanksgiving services are celebrated in church on Sunday and many families have their dinner on Sunday and Monday is a day for travel or rest.
Tonie, I hope you’re still awake..meant to get to this sooner. I finished up the shopping today but it was so cold in and out of the store I had to come home, get into a robe and lie down. I have George in a sweater and blanket and he’s loving it. Guess Jakie finds his greater amount of fat and fur suits him. Gonna order out tonight and have Jim’s dinner delivered. Well dear friend, I am so pleased you got some answers today. Was the male doctor you saw an ortho? I’m pleased you liked him and he answered some of your concerns in regard to your shoulders.Hope the injection helps during the coming busy week. Good for you to get back to the dose of methotrexate you know has helped you in the past. So reassuring to hear this rheumy is working out for you after your move.
I enjoyed hearing about your family thanksgiving memories, although for us city folk that butchering the pigs while dinner was cooking was a bit startling. When you grow up on a farm I guess you get used to it. Your mom must have been a great cook. SO many of our mothers were it seems. Long before fast food it seems most of our Moms took cooking more seriously than they do now. Groceries have changed so much, haven’t they?
I know you’re exhausted tonight and hope you’re able to rest well. Living with gratitude sure does keep bitterness and anger more manageable. I think we tend to look for the “connection” and purpose in our lives and a reason to not appreciate our pain, but to accept it.
My DD is still feeling lousy also. This doesn’t seem like a serious virus, just irritating when so much needs doing. Rest well tonight. Love, Sue
Sue:
LOL ! I bet it does seem strange that butchering pigs while cooking dinner ! It was a very private affair as well. The windows were shaded where no kids could see out what was going on in the barn lot. And we all knew that none of us was to go out and bother the men for anything. Daddy always had neighbors to help him, my brothers didn’t. He never came in with blood on him, he was always washed up and clean. I really appreciate the way my parents handled death of the animals until we were old enough to understand death. We knew we ate them, but the process was not something commonplace.
Yes the man Dr was an Ortho who specializes in the shoulders, very strange these days. The injection has helped so much indeed. Didn’t wake up with a frozen shoulder or pain in the night. Talked to my birthday boy Nathan last night ! He so loves his birthday. His sister baked him a cake, and I had to brag on that too. It was chilly enough for her to see her breath and it had been raining all day. She was so excited ! I know Jo can relate. The excitement of long overdue rain and a cool weather where you can wear a jacket all day ! It is the little things.
The Rheumy also gave me a RX for Pred, to put back in case things got bad. SHe only made me promise if I felt bad over 5 days to get in touch with her. Sounds like a plan. At least I have a back up huh ?? Did I tell you I lost 5 more lbs ?? And while taking the Pred, so I was happy for that. Take care dear friend and please get better !! Prayers for DD as well.
Love ya lots
Tonie
Sue, hope you and all my American friends have a wonderful Thanksgiving! I think our Thanksgiving menus are very similar but I’m sure there are differences in your country from north to south. For vegetables we often have turnip or roasted carrots and for desert pumpkin pie, but the younger generation are often trying new recipes. I make my cranberry sauce with orange juice and rind but have never tried ginger. I love cranberries and make cranberry sauce year round to have with chicken or turkey. One year when I was little my grandparents had a gobbler that would chase me around the barn yard and I was terrified of him! I do believe he became our Thanksgiving dinner that year and I was very happy to see the end of him!
I also believe we become more thankful and take less for granted when we have a chronic medical condition. The last few days Ken has been helping the neighbour ( who brought the digger to help us get ready for the porch next spring), so I tried to do some work outside and ended up with a very painful wrist. It is my left wrist (which is fused and has a metal plate), so I hope it settles down tonight as the plan is to lock the cottage door tomorrow and leave it in hibernation for the winter season.
I saw my rheumy for the last time this week and was surprised how upset I was with his retirement. I have been seeing him for 23 years and we had become good friends as he helped me tramp down this rheumatoid road, and it was so comforting to know he was there if I ever needed him, and it feels like another loss in my life. He has referred me to the rheumy who cared for my mother, who will find my condition much more severe than my mum’s unfortunately, but knowing her, I’m sure he has was told all about me!
How is George? Puppies are so much fun and I remember in the morning being covered with kisses … they are just so happy just to be alive and ready to start a new day! Teddi and Korry still run around each morning, so excited that their brekkie is being prepared, and I believe these pups can teach us all something about happiness and being thankful! They have been grieving for their bother Kodi but they seem to be settling in to a new normal of a pack of two, and I believe they have become closer because of it.
My posts are still going for moderation so it may seem my comments are in the wrong order sometimes.
Love and Hugs to all …. Nana Brenda
Sue, I forgot to say that I have one plate of Royal Albert old country roses that I got from a dear aunt as a shower gift when we were married! Over the years it has held many birthday cakes. Now I will think of you whenever I use it 🙂
Chris: I am so sorry you are going thru this with your Dad. I and many others on here have been there before and we can definitely understand. Your back is also reacting to all the stress, I know it does mine. It is so difficult to watch them leaving this world. But we do have a hope of being together again, and knowing of the beautiful life we will have over yonder God bless you sweetie, take care of you, so you can be there when you are needed most.
Love
Tonie
Chris, All you and DH can do is try and see with the meds. I can understand DH not wanting to go through more with the doc and the pills, The battle sometimes needs a bit of R and R. After all he’s been through just since I’ve known you two…seems like a rest and relaxation time is the ticket. Maybe a few days of eating out, doing his photography, etc. will help. The question is whether or not your back will hold up for it. I’m sorry to hear it’s giving you misery. Hope rest, lying down on a heating pad or whatever you find helps…does help.Is elevating your thighs a bit helping?
Chris, my heart aches for you as far as your Dad. I think you said it well. He is indeed fading away and I suspect having heard about him, he is hanging on by strength of will. These are special times for you. Is your GS close to your Dad? My prayer for your Dad is that he is not suffering and will find himself with peace in his heart during the time he has left on this earth. Isn’t that all any of us want and may expect? Hope the weekend is a peaceful one for you and DH. Love you, Sue
Chris, so sorry for all you and your family are going through. Prayers continuing.
Tonie, glad your day of appointments went so well. 🙂
Sue~~~Oh how I learn from your other readers as to their particular Thanksgiving Traditions–Cooking the Turkey Upside down! Never thought about that–I have learned to use the Roasting Bags,laying the Turkey on top of a bed of Celery & Onion, making sure to put more into the Cavity of the Turkey. It works–and makes for a wonderful meal.
My early Thanksgiving memories were from spending this Holiday with my Great-Grandparents and many other relatives. Smells of delicious food filled the room, women chatting away, men puffing away on their Big cigars–and my tiny Great-Grandma was running back and forth–making sure all was covered and everyone had plenty to eat. I loved hearing German being spoken too–all I knew was how to count in German but when my Granny would get really upset about something–German began to flow and we all knew–step out of her way…
These memories are held close to my heart~~Life moved at a very different pace in those long ago days and although I am sure it was very hard to make a living~~I never had a clue there might be any problem with money. We were not wealthy but managed by a year round garden, home-made bread and other food.
For me on this approaching Thanksgiving–I am thankful to be here, able to be with my Husband as we age together, and feel an extra measure of Joy when I think about all the “New” friends I continue meeting via the Blogging World. Thank you for reminding us Sue as to the importance of pausing to express sincere Gratitude for our blessings. Happy Thanksgiving to all. Love, marths
Martha, Each of us have unique yet similar memories. It makes it all the more wonderful and personal.Sounds like you had a very interesting extended family. I’m sure your great grandmother used some of her German recipes. Sounds delicious.During the last couple of years on my old blog all of us shared some of our favorite or a bit unusual recipes. Such fun to share, especially if the recipe is one that is easy and doesn’t tax these tired bodies of ours.
I think most of us are mixing the old with the new when it comes to cooking. If only our grandmothers had the conveniences we do, would lit have tasted as good? Probably but those kitchen memories would be very different. Hope you have a good one planned and I know you’ll be counting your blessings. I agree with you that our blog friends are wonderful and represent a smattering of folks we could not have met another way. Hope you and yours have a blessed Thanksgiving, also. Fondly, Sue
Martha:
We are ever bit as glad to you have you onboard with us as well. I can envision your family as well. We are all so similar underneath it all aren’t we. Have a good one !!
Tonie
Dear all
Thankyou for the kind and helpful words of wisdom
Tonie
So pleased you got to see someone that’s on your side and understands. good that Judy is going well
Your description of thanksgiving was interesting ..what they must have gone thru
Sue
Your saying of r n r. Was just the thing we need! Gonna do it today and just forget we got a problem!
Hope you got warm inside by now.its rotten when you feel cold inside takes ages to get warm.also I feel cold with any stomach problem
Lyn
Everyone’s prayers does help doesn’t it,Thankyou
Well awake again ,looking forward to b.fast out..and a trip to the library,gonna be cold I think ,to be expected now. But hubby will take his camera as he aways does and we will jst go wherever it takes us
There’s that serendipity again
Sue how is Jim and his bp now also has he got date for colonoscopy
Well gona savour this time by myself and make a cup of tea .nothing to disturb me ! Just blimmin cold to get up
Chris
Chris dear, you see, you’re in each of our hearts. How wonderful your day sounds..go where you want to go, do what you will and can and just enjoy. It’s 10PM here and Jim’s been asleep for the last hour, a good friend from CA just called and we chatted, Jake’s in the recliner with Jim and George is on the bed with me, all sleeping. Actually, I have the chills from this darn tenacious bug but am trying to ignore it.The entry hall is full of packages as I’ve started online shopping and our littlest GD has a birthday coming up. I do most of my gift shopping on line so I don’t have to carry, etc. We get so much free shipping in these competitive times.
Was just wondering if you have a travel cushion or back cushion for comfort. As far as Jim, his B/P is high but not frighteningly so and no, his doctor is apparently still ill. Hope your weather is good for your day out. We are cold yet clear over here. Goodnight from me but good morning for you dear girl. Sue
OH FLIPPIN ECK!!!! JUST WHEN I AM BACK ON MY 5:2 DIET, EVERYONE IS TALKING FOOD, FOOD, AND EVEN MORE FOOD. I AM SITTING HERE DRIBBLING LIKE A CAT WATCHING A MOUSE.
SUE…THE ANSWER TO YOUR QUESTION ABOUT TURKEY STUFFING, WELL HERE IN FRANCE THEY TEND TO FAVOUR CHESTNUTS, AND IF YOU HAVE NEVER HAD CREPES WITH MERRON GLACE, YOU AIN’T LIVED. ME??? I STUFF A COUPLE OF LEMONS UP THE TURKY’S ASS, BUT FILL THE NECK WITH SHALLOTS, BRUSH WITH MELTED BUTTER, SPRINKLE WITH BLACK PEPPER, LAY FRESH SPRIGS OF ROSEMARY ACROSS THE TOP, AND ADD BACON RASHERS LATER ON. I LOVE ALLYOUR STORIES OF THANKSGIVING, AND I JUST MIGHT DO SOMETHING MYSELF ON THE 28TH, AND YOU CAN BE SURE I WILL BE RAISING A GLASS TO ALL MY SPECIAL FRIENDS, WHO I WOULDN’T BE WITHOUT FOR THE WORLD. ALTHOUGH I HAVEN’T COMMENTATED ON INDIVIDUAL POSTS, I HAVE READ THEM ALL, AND I KNOW MOST OF YOU ARE HAVING A TOUGH TIME WITH VARIOUS HEALTH PROBLEMS, SO DON’T THINK FOR ONE MOMENT I AM NOT PRAYING FOR ANSWERS FOR ALL OF YOU……….I LOVE YOU ALL…………..JENNIE XXXXXXXXXXXXX
Jennie, I also use chestnuts in my stuffing…water chestnuts. You seldom see chestnuts with the outer layer over here. Your version of turkey, indeed everything you describe sounds so delicious. French cooking is so refined and I’m afraid many of us have tweaked it down over the years for ease. Like me, today. I must clean the floors and have Jim help me move some of the furniture around so we can open the dining table full throttle. Hope I can find the energy somehow. As far as cooking, I often put garlic slices under the skin of chicken before baking but with turkey I put a couple of fresh bay leaves under there, can’t bear to put lemons up her ass…too much identity for me I guess. Ha Ha. I add salt and butter all around but a lot of the flavor is from the homemade cornbread stuffing supplemented with some Mrs. Cubisons mx of dry, lots of sage, chopped onion, celery, celery leaves and chestnuts. I always make extra stuffing because that’s what Beth and I love the most. I know from your descriptions you are a marvelous cook and already are working on the menu for Tim and Claire’s visit. I should be cleaning those floors right now. I had to work out a problem with my carpet shampooer..the handle you pull to release the shampoo was killing my poor fingers and actually made a knuckle bleed last time sooooo I went to my SIL’s store yesterday and bought a clamp. Hope it works. So much on my mind..hope I get half of it accomplished. The hardest for me right now are all the things that need to be lifted and or moved and not just going ahead and doing it. I also have to change my email address. I’m such a non-technical person and must face that. Our old server is changing and since we’ve gone with another server for all of our thing…phone, email and internet and HD TV’s. I’m stuck with letting all my accounts know.. I do so much shopping through Amazon, Eddiei bauer, etc. Still trying to have the patience to learn how to use my new Ipad. Oh I think my brain is just too old. Have to get my 7 and 10 year old grands to help with that and then try to follow what they’re doing. Must be nice. Must close..life calls, much love, Sue
OH BLOOMIN ECK SUE………..I HATE IT WHEN YOU HAVE TO DO THAT, BE SURE AND LET ME KNOW WHAT YOU NEW E-MAIL IS WHEN YOU FIGURE ONE OUT, STICK IT ON F/B OR WHATEVER!! SORRY ABOUT YOUR POOR KNUCKLES, ITS SO FRUSTRATING WHEN YOU WANT TO DO SOMETHING, AND CAN’T GET ON WITH IT COZ YOUR STRENGTH LETS YOU DOWN. THERE ARE STILL THREE DAYS BEFORE YOU HAVE TO BE READY, SO PLEASE MY FRIEND, DON’T KNOCK YOURSELF OUT, YOUR FAMILY LOVE YOU AND DON’T GIVE A DAMN IF THE CARPET ISN’T SHAMPOOED. YOU HAVE GIVEN ME LOTS OF IDEAS FOR THINGS TO MAKE BEFORE THE KIDS COME, SO THANKS FOR THAT, BUT TO BE HONEST SUE, I AM GONNA CHEAT A BIT. NOT MAKING MY OWN MINCEMEAT FOR A START, AND I MAY GO ONE STEP FURTHER AND GET SOME GOOD QUALITY ROLL-OUT PASTRY. I NEED MY STRENGTH SO I CAN ENJOY THE KIDS AND MY DH AND SACHA. SO, A LEAF FROM YOUR OWN BOOK SWEETPEA, GET THOSE FEET UP AS OFTEN AS YOU CAN OR YOU WILL BE KNACKERED…….LOVE YA HEAPS…….JEN XX
Tonie, all the news with the new doctors sounds great. They really “get” you. What a relief for you and all of us who worry about you. Pleased to hear the iniijection in the shoulder did so much good. I’ll bet Nathan was thrilled to chat with you. Did Hailey bake the cake? Rain in AZ must smell wonderful. We have so much of it here we don’t get the odors we had in CA.
I meant no offense about slaughtering the pigs..just surprised. Life on a farm must be practical and it’s affects last for a lifetime of common sense thinking. I see that in you.
I keep forgetting to ask if the last round of prednisone helped you much? Well, I must get something done. Was up at 6 AM with many trips to the john so took my pills early to get a running start. Running…did I say running? Did I tell you I spoke with my son in TX yesterday and my eldest grandson has made the national honor society. He’s just finishing his masters in social work. So proud of him. Always been a wonderful kid. Must get my apple pie recipe off to them now as they have requested it. Hope I can remember it. Hope today is a day of peace for you dear friend…Love you, Sue
Oh Sue me darlin’ ! You know you can’t offend me. 🙂 I was just explaining why we did it at that time. No way did you miss a day of work, and it has to be really cold so the meat doesn’t spoil. Life on a farm and all the lessons of frugality and wisdom have sustained me over the years for sure. Yes the Prednisone has helped me so much. Although I wake in the am feeling like a train wreck, after I take the meds, have a little coffee and a bite to eat, well, I get to feeling a little more human. I have been resting most of the day. I did bake me some pumpkin spice muffins this am, and for supper just made me some penne pasta with sausage, onions, garlic, tomatoes and cheese. Yummy, but I am so bloated as it was full gluten pasta ! I can’t eat it so much anymore 🙂
So great on your GS !! Congrats, that is awesome !! Yes, Hailey made Nathan the cake and is so proud of herself. I am gonna try to get her to try some of my recipes for the holidays and see what she does. They helped me cook so much I am sure she can handle herself. Me n Brutie just had our bath so I am full, warm and snuggly ! Watch a movie and crochet. Getting cold tonight, the high tomorrow is only in the 20’s ! BRRRR! !!
Hope you get your floors done, and don’t be lifting nuthin mama !!
Love ya
TOnie
Tonie, You sure did learn a lot about life and taking care of yourself when growing up. Now lady, that’s a bit too cold. Your mornings sound a lot like mine. WHen I know it’s going to a day with many demands, I take my pills the first time I wake up to pee. I try to sneak into the BR so as not to awaken George in his kennel right beside the bed. Both of my pups are also clean. It got up into the low 40’s today but always the wind from the river.
It’s so hard to be good as far as lifting whatever I want to lift. I’ve learned to unpack boxes downstairs. Since I order most things except groceries through Amazon, etc. It is difficult for us old dogs to, you know. I know learning new tricks sounds like fun but I have enough challenge with technology. Glad you’re handling so many of your health problems with more competent help. Folks don’t realize how important the right doc can be. Stay warm and be good to yourself. Love, Sue
OH CRIKEY TONIE…….YOU ON ABOUT FOOD AGAIN, SOD IT THINK I WILL GO AND MAKE MYSELF A MASSIVE SANDWICH, TOASTED CHEESE AND ONION/TOMATO, AND A HUGE MUG OF HOT CHOCOLATE…DAMN THE CALORIES. GLAD TO HEAR THE PREDNISILONE IS HELPING YOU TONIE, ITS 4C HERE AT THE MOMENT, AND SET TO DROP FURTHER, DON’T LIKE IT DO YOU MATE? I LIKE WHAT YOU DID WITH THE PENNE, MY FAVOURITE PASTA, I DO MINE STARTING WITH STIRFRYING MY VEGGIES, THEN PUT THE PASTA ON TILL ALDENTE, ADD A FEW PRAWNS/CHICKEN, OR ANY OTHER PROTEIN, CHUCK IN THE PASTA WITH A SPOONFUL OF PESTO…..DELICIOUS. ARE YOU KEEPING WARM ENOUGH TONIE, GOT ENOUGH OF EVERYTHING??…….CATCH YOU LATER, LOVE YOU DEAR FRIEND……..JENNIE XXXXXXXXX
BRRRRRRRR!!!! 20′ !!! DId I say it is COLD ??? Got me some tea and a few muffins and climbed back into bed until I have to get up. My bedroom is so warm and cozy. I will be glad when I get it painted and then it will be BRIGHT warm and cozy. That is a few projects away though.
Hope you are all feeling well this am. I think I was up every hour or so last night, so not very rested today. BUT it is Sunday and that is basically what I do.
Sue I do understand with the lifting, I mean who wants to wait until you have someone there to do it ?? I would NEVER do anything 🙂 I just need to be smarter about it. Like instead of one load of several heavy bags on my shoulders I need to make a couple more trips. Easy to say, hard to do. I really do understand why the animals hibernate in the winter, I really do !!
Love to all
Tonie
Tonie, Oh dear..reminds me of igloos and such. Watch those fingers and toesies. So many of us are facing colder weather but I must admit today we’re like Florida compared to VA today. Hope the church was warm and cozy and you came home and warmed up after being out. I’m certain your two furry friends are helping you stay warm and you them. How are Caesar and Brutus liking the cold, those poor Arizona pups? I suspect they are enjoying the country so much they won’t mind. Tell this city girl how the chicks are doing in this cold. Hope Judy is home and doing wonderfully. Does that 20 degrees mean it’s slippery outside? Be safe..Love, Sue
Oh no slick weather ! WHen it is this cold it is too cold to snow. Besides no rain in the forcast until Tuesday. So we will see. The boys don’t seem to mind the weather much, they run out and run back in. Ceasar gets the shivers but Brutie has a thick coat of hair and doesn’t mind. The chickes are fine, in their building lots of straw on the floors and nests. Judy is at Mary’s still got rehab to do. I will go by and see her after work on Tues, if it isn’t snowing :_ I am nice and warm and really want to sleep but must get up and go back to church.
Take care
Love
Tonie
Well all not long to go for you now.make sure you take it nice n slow too!
Hope the knuckles are ok now Sue with the clamp there in place on the cleaner and it worked ok
Jennie had pasta today and I always do mine that way
Tonie your place does sound cosy all those cooking smells there too! Hope you are rested now
Went out to b.fast yesterday and to library ,but then home again it was a drizzley day.met up with the usual people and chatted so that was nice.always love a good conversation on whatever.DH misses out as he doesn’t catch it,so I explain after if not at the time.
Well gives it sunny tomorrow so we are going over to see DD and GS along a wibbly wobbly route!
Hope all had a good w.end
Chris
Chris, sounds like you have a few regulars to meet and chat with. I know, it is hard when one can’t hear well. I used to feel so sad when Jim’s Mom obviously was not in on the conversation. I am in the midst of so much right now ans am trying to catch all lof you when I get my down time..which is about every hour. Beautiful clear day here today. Hope your Dad is hanging in there and finding some pleasure. You feeling a bit better? Love, Sue
HI MATE………..WE THINK ALIKE HUH? ALWAYS BELIEVE IN THE SAUCE COATING THE PASTA NOT THE OTHER WAY ROUND, AND WITH PENNE, IT GETS INSIDE THE TUBES………..OOOOOH, WANT SOME NOW.
SO COLD HERE 2C, PLEASE DON’T LET IT SNOW WHEN ITS HOSPITAL TIME NEXT WEEK, OR IT COULD MAKE THINGS DIFFICULT. DID YOU GO ON THE WIBBLY WOBBLY ROUTE? I LIKE THOSE TOO, SEEM TO SEE MORE WUBBLY THINGS…………………………!!!!!!!
Okay what is the “Wibbly WObbly Route ?”
Jennie, I know we will all have you and DH in our thoughts next week for a safe journey into the hospital and a safe surgery so he can feel better, soon. How far is the drive in? Is Liz picking you up there or taking both of you in? Tell DH he has our prayers for a speedy recovery.
Yes, we do all talk about food a lot on here. I suspect most of us are good cooks.I know you most certainly are and now that I think of it, realize how much we’ve all taught each other over the years.
Jennie, I know you’re worried about the weather and along with all your friends on here pray it is clear for the journeys coming up. I know your kind man has wood ready for you and it’s easing to know Liz is so close…your kind neighbor. We’ll be there my dear girl
I love the wibbly wobbly, wubbly…Maybe eventually we crazy Americans will learn what it is. Sounds like the full conjugation of the word wibble. You gotta love words..I know I do.
I have sort of lost today with so many distractions here…cleaning out the desk to make room, gutter guys here and George ready to rip them up, and my mind in seventeen directions. I’ll get a bit accomplished tonight when I’ve rested and had a bit of rest. Have a roast in the oven with wine and broth to serve for French dip tonight. Do they have French dip in France, or French fries? Never know about names of things.
Hope you’re warm and rested ini your AM..Much love, Sue
JenniePoo! Hope your sammich was good ! I had a toasted cheese for lunch yesterday. Cold weather makes me want to cook more. No I don’t like the cold. At least it ain’t snowing (yet). I had me some sausage and eggs for lunch and am sipping my coffee as I sit here. I think the Penne pasta is such an tasteful one. I like to use coarsely shredded mozzarella and yes I sauté my veggies first as well, then throw it all together in the skillet. I was making skillet dinners before they were popular !! I have everything I need sweetie, and am nice and warm in here as we speak. The propane is a very moist heat, so no need for humidifiers this year, in fact you can’t see out the windows in the mornings, so steamed over and dripping ! I have to start making goodies for the Bazaar. Peanut better pinwheels fudge and pizzelles, and I think some Turtles (caramel, pecan and chocolate) I found a very easy recipe for them. WHole pecans on a baking sheet, top each one with a Kraft Carmel , then heat to melting,remove and cover in melted choc chips. I LOVE caramel. Again, though when I make it I really eat less. Make sense ?? :). Well, hope you stay warm and have a snuggly day !
Love
Tonie
Jennie, I find pasta so filling, no matter how the old gut is behaving it always sounds good. Jim is not into vegies so I often make two dishes of it..one my way and one his with meat, of course. Actually, the carpet shampooing is just for upstairs and it is because we have a new puppy. Downstairs we just have area carpets and not the same problems as upstairs. Jake is getting more careless as he ages, too. He never did learn to ring the bell to go out like Annie used to do.
There are so many wonderful, already cooked foods on the market, I think we have to save our energies and couldn’t agree with you more. There are also some marvelous catalogs and even friends who bake and can use the business.
Jimi and I had an epiphany yesterday that we have too much stuff in this small house. We’re going to get rid of a lovely, large teak rolltop desk which will open up for more family dinners in the dining room. Comfort has become of paramount importance and we both decided we could live without it. We’ll see if the kids want it, if not I’ll consult some of the local dealers about it. It’s lovely and we’ve had it for 30+ years but have too much in here. It has come the time to simplify. It’s like a gong has gone off in my head in recent months. We’re aging and need to change a few things around here. Hope you’re managing the weather and your body is co-operating. I must get back to work…so easy to lie here and chat. Love, Sue.
Okay Sue, send me the desk 🙂 !! I know of which you speak, I am still downsizing and trying to get organized. I warmed up the last of the pasta from last night and had it for supper, well almost warm. I kinda like cold pasta leftovers. This week is going to be a busy one for us all. I pray we all find strength and use wisdom in taking care of ourselves. The joys of family and sharing of time with each other is such a wonderful blessing. I pray you all have a blessed day and wonderful week.
Love
Tonie
OH TONIE…..I LOVE CARAMEL TOO, ESPECIALLY IN ICECREAM. LOVING THE SOUND OF ALL THE GOODIES YOU ARE MAKING FOR THE BAZAAR, BY THE WAY,THAT WORD ALWAYS FASCINATES ME, THERE ARE NOT TOO MANY WORDS WITH A DOUBLE AA ARE THERE?? JUST SAYING THATS ALL.
SOUNDS LIKE YOU ARE KEEPING BUSY AND WARM. SOME OF THE INGREDIENTS YOU USE IN YOUR COOKING/BAKING ARE NOT AVAILABLE HERE, SO WHEN YOU POST A RECIPE, I HAVE TO ADJUST A LITTLE, NO DISASTERS AS OF YET……..ITS COLD ENOUGH TO FREEZE THE B…….LS OFF A BRASS MONKEY HERE TODAY, GOT TO GO AND PUT ANOTHER LOG ON…LOVE YA…..JENNIE POO XX
Hey Jenn:
Same here, very cold. But at least the wind has gone by by !! It is up to 30′ here so better than 9 anyday !! I am “cleaning” my house and doing laundry. I so love my Roomba and Scooba. Vaccum and mop at the touch of a button. Next I gotta do some more rearranging of the bedroom stuff, put away a MOUNTAIN of laundry. So forth and so on. I pray you get no snow sweetie pie. I don’t always use all that are in the recipes either. I make them to my specs 🙂 Reminds me I need to post a Mayo Cake recipe for Suzanne. You guys take care and stay warm
Love
Tonie
Hi, all, catching up again. I believe it’s been a day or two since I was last on. Yes, it is COLD here today! 20’s and windy! I did not enjoy it. Church this morning, concert this afternoon. Tonight? Chilling out in my recliner in jammies, with a soft, warm blanket on me! Night before last I was up about every hour, with a 2 hour stint fully awake, much as at least one of us here. Last night was a bit better. In a fog all week – not a pleasant week, but thankfully the fog seems to have lifted today, just in time fore that concert in which we performed 4 of the pieces from memory – yikes! All the yummy dishes everyone is describing! We’ve had two days of yummy dinners here, too. I had the forethought to thaw a nice pork loin and slow cook that yesterday for a meal of pork, baked potato and corn which I froze this summer. I also made a yummy apple crisp for dessert. Today, the guys ate some of the leftover pork I pulled last night, with some French fries (BBQ sauce on the pork). Not sure what else they may have had. I had an open faced pulled pork sandwich myself when I got home followed by some apple crisp. I’d earned it. Enough food talk. Although thinking ahead to what I need to do tomorrow, one errand is shopping for ingredients for my contribution to the Thanksgiving meal as well as some necessary odds and ends. All are doing fine here, including the little furry beasts. Please know you are all in my prayers – and certainly were the two hours I was awake overnight the other night… 😉 Concert after effects creeping in. Time to relax and read a bit. Cheers!
OH LYN……I WILL NEVER GET SLIM IF I KEEP TRYING OUT ALL YOUR RECIPES, APPLE CRISP……WOW!! LOVING ANYTHING WITH APPLES, AND LOVE THEM ROASTED WITH PORK…..HAVE FUN ON THE 28TH PETAL, BUT REMEMBER TO REST TOO WON’T YOU?? ……JENNIE XX
You sound so comfy cozy after your exertion. Hope all in your family have a fine holiday. I love pulled pork because you can do so much with it, like tacos, barbecue sandwichs, etc.When my kids were small they used to love a meal of “Poke chops n’ applesauce.” I always made my own applesauce. Do you notice the canned stuff is usually yellow when you make it at home it’s red. Don’t know where that thought came from???? I’ve been giving both of our pups applesauce, unsweetened and bought, each night to aid their “going.” They love it. My son gives their dogs a can of green beans every late afternoon. Funny the things we do for our pets, huh? You are the warm lap in your family, right? I also love apple crisp and make it often in the wintertime. Do take care and rest. Hope the fog lifts brainwise. Does it seem to accompany fatigue or pain? Or does it stand alone? Well, must arise from resting and get something done. Later dear…Love ya, Sue
Sue, hopefully you can find this here. Too pooped to write to all, but will answer your question about the fog. Mostly it happens for me when I’m fatigued. But as with all our “interesting” things, exceptions can occur. Time for me to head up for bed. I rested today, but had a rehearsal tonight for our upcoming Christmas concert. Now I’m a tired pup.
Hi Sue! Love the article! I have tried to use Facebook daily this month by writing “Grateful Greetings” and several others have followed suite. Nicer to hear what we are grateful for rather than complaining. Lol
Hey Nana B !! Good to see you on here this am. True that. It is good for us to be grateful and not complain so much of the time. Hard to sometimes. Take care and stay warm !!
Love
Tonie
HERE HERE BRENDA LOVE……HOW ARE YOU DOING?? XX
Is it Nana Brenda or Pommun? Two wrapped up in one sweet lady. Good to hear from you. I see on FB that you’ve shut up the cottage. You my dear understand gratitude..this I know. Always wonderful to see you get through on here. Do be good to yourself..Love, Sue
Brenda, I am sorry about the mix up with two Brenda’s I think your gratefulness each day is wonderful. You’re right of course..we do need this instead of complaining. I have a friend who lost her husband a year ago and still is in grief but more than that, she is always depressed. It concerns me so much that she is not interactive in her own life. No FB, little socializing and always self-pity. These are all recipes for disaster and she is failing quickly. So many folks don’t realize we actually have to choose and grab life by the throat sometimes. The mind and heart are so much more important than many realize ..those who think our bodies rule..well, we know they don’t. Always good to hear from you and have your sharing. Sorry for the mix up. We’ll try to be more careful in the future and remember Nana Brenda goes by “Pommum.” hope your Thanksgiving was blessed. .Love your attitude…Sue
Lyn
Hope you are doing well today. It was so cold here last night. Once when I was up it was 9′ !! YIKES !! Your pork sounds lovely and makes me want to fix one. Hope you enjoyed your concert. Take care
Tonie
Tonie, 9 degrees is indeed YIKES. Keep those toes and hands warm when you have to be out…I know, you know that. It’s the mother in me…can’t help it when you combine it with being a nurse. Hope your cleaning went well. I think we share the same problem..too much stuff and too little space. It’s hard to let go sometimes…I’ve been going through old pics and junk and it sure stirs up the memories. I should be cooking and or dusting. They came out to finish putting in our downspouts this afternoon and if George was a pit bull he would be very impressive. Such ferocity in guarding me and the house. Hope you got a bit of rest. Love, Sue
Got a lot done Sue, and overtaxed my back moving the jewelry amoire (it is oak). However, a hot shower and heating pad is making it feel better. Little Georgie, he is such a sweetie. I have to smile everytime I come to the blog and see that little girls pic eyeing that turkey. Really takes me back, but I think I still have that look while I see the turkey today !! 🙂
Love
Tonie
Well lost a post so a quick one now
Tonie. A wibbly wobbly way is a lazy winding serendipity route instead of the straight quickest way there as Jennie says you find more wubbely things!
You resting now you done a lot
Had left over pasta for tonight ..nice and quick
Trying to go to sleep now been to DD today and going tomorrow so am tired
Back not too good
See ya tomorrow
Chris
Oh yeah Chris, I get ya ! I like to take that way much of my life !! It is more fun ! I enjoy going those routes and living in the country most of the time that is the only way you CAN go !! 🙂 But you really see the most amazing things sometimes. I love seeing all the animals wild and domesticated. I think I am gonna take a nap now myself. Worn myself out working around here, but did get a lot accomplished. Do take care and rest your back.
Love
Tonie
Chris, I’m sorry your back is causing you so much pain. Hope you get some down time with a heating pad. Thinking of you..Love, Sue
Lyn dear, that makes sense…It’s worse for me when I’m tired, also. I find the cold this year going straight to all my joints..elbows, wrists and today my right jaw was throbbing. I guess I’m trying to say we have greater fatigue with more pain and this change of seasons is causing many to have mucho pain.I think many of us have muddled thinking and find ourselves putting things places and forgetting, etc. especially when we’re pooped.
I find myself tonight trying to not become depressed. Spent a great deal of time today going through things in desk drawers from ages ago and so many memories were stuffed into those drawers. Thinking about many folks I miss, places we went to and older grands who are all in college now.
Resting now? Hope so..Bet the thrill of the endorphin rush from the singing wears off by the time you get home. Thankfully, like adrenaline the rush of loving your music keeps you going ….I’ll bet. Everyone of us need something that gives us that kind of pleasure. I feel that with writing..losing myself in the joy of it.Love ya now….rest. Sue
Tonie, glad you got so much accomplished today. I know, hard to move some of that heavy stuff…we can unload it or get a dolly or a buddy but often..it’s just us. Boy, I know those small spaces are crowded but it does force us to get rid of stuff. I’m convinced our habitat is like our purse…we expand to fill it no matter the size. Rest and glad to hear the heat helps..Much love, Sue
Ok ive just googled it to find out what a French dip is. It sounds great never had it,and will try it next time could you have thick gravy instead or not? I am a fan of just dipping bread into gravy..ain’t grown up yet!
I keep meaning to ask Sue where do you get the pictures from they are so good .i have to keep looking at the one this time
Chris
Now CHris:
If you dip it in gravy then you will just have “gravy and biscuits” (not YOUR biscuits, ours) Love the Aui Juis or beef broth, the French make it all sound so gourmet huh ?? In the South, our breakfasts usually consisted of eggs, some sort of meat , biscuits and gravy made from the meat drippings. Good if you are gonna work all day 🙂 I know , these pictures are so great. Our dear web host is so good with the way she sets these things up ! I was going to say how THANKFUL we are to have her to do this for us.
Boy is it raining here, at least it will melt off the ice that was here this am. Not going to work today, will go tomorrow. Nasty nasty weather to be going up that mountain. Not a fan of sliding off on the ice !
Hope all is going well with your DH and Dad.
Take care
Love
Tonie
Oh yea
They look good just got a pic of biscuits on google.they are like UK savoury scones
Oh dear so hungry!
Tonie you do sound like Heidi in the alps!
Just come bak from DD .gonna rest a bit Chris
Tonie, so glad you are level headed and staying off the roads. I’m sure Ms. Alice agrees and do without you today. Stay warm my dear and knowing you, you have a million projects to keep you busy. Love..Sue
Chris, I agree. Natalie Cagle who was my first editor at everydayhealth.com set up this blog and also chooses the pictures. Isn’t she clever? She is a wonder as she’s moved on to bigger and better things. Oddly enough I have never met her either. She lives in Oklahoma.
No Chris, gravy wouldn’t work the same as the broth from the meat. I put it in the oven early in the day on a very low oven, add beef broth and wine to it along with a clove of cut up garlic and some onion powder, salt and paprika. The onion powder and paprika are substitutes for a real onion and black pepper, both of which are too hard on my bad gut. Then when it is tender, we slice it thin and serve it on a nice toasted chewy bun, dip the filled sandwich into a small individual cup of the special broth or au juis. It has to be thin to soak into the bun. Others serve them differently, but that’s how I do it. I love the broth and dip often.
So how is your DD doing? How’s GS? Must run, much to do. There will not be a blog on Thanksgiving.I’ll give Natalie and me a break. I’ll be on here and on FB. Love, Sue
A VERY QUICK HELLO……….POOPED IS THE WORD, CHRISTMAS SHOPPING EVEN IN RURAL FRANCE TAKES ITS TOLL, PLUS LACK OF SLEEP………SORRY DON’T MEAN TO MOAN, JUST OVERDONE THINGS AS PER USUAL….SO FEET UP, CUP OF TEA AND WILL TRY AND COME BACK LATER, IF NOT, LOVE TO EVERYONE AND MASSIVE HUGS (WISH I COULD) XX
Jennie, take care of yourself. Life is always a tradeoff isn’t it? Love you…Sue
Hello, all. Tonie, glad you are staying home today. Nasty business out there. Although it could be worse here. We didn’t get much of the snow or mixed mess. Some flurries, but now I think it is just rain. SB is coming home today and the forecast for them is snow 1 – 4 today, then changing to rain. I told him to hold off travel until it is just rain, not snow or freezing rain, if possible. It sounds like he’s keeping on top of things and planning to do so. He is supposed to have a class this evening, but is hoping it will be cancelled so they can leave before it starts getting colder. Prayers for a safe travel appreciated. He is bringing another fellow home with him. He lives very close to us. Damp and cold here. I am in comfy sweats and a soft blanket and just turned the fireplace on for a short bit. Two of the cats were lounging in front of it until Rufus got lured away by Lily playing with a twist tie.
Lyn, Indeed prayers for traveling safety for SB. I know your anxiety level goes up as the temp falls..we mothers. Isn’t it wonderful and just plain fun how our pets offer us such joy? They also make a home so much “warmer.” Take care as you disperse rest with work..I know, we do that. Love, Sue
Hey all:
Wet, damp cold, and still icy mix out there. I have been out in it a couple of times, just to feed the chicks and kitty, and to see my sister when she drove by to pick up her mail n such. Her leg is healing amazingly fast ! The scar looks older than the few weeks she has been healing. She had gotten out to get her hair cut and was feeling chipper ! My brother came home for Thanksgiving with his kids. He came down and spent the morning with me. Bought up all the pillows I had made for the Bazaar 🙂 , have to see if I can coax the machine into sewing a couple more. THe motor is shot, I can hear the bearings scraping in it.
Lyn, prayers for the boy for sure. We are supposed to get snow in the am. It will be warmer tomorrow, so hopefully will get to work. Took me a nice nap snuggled with the boys on the bed. I have to venture back out here in a bit to feed Chocky again. He is loving staying in the shed and staying dry and warm. I gave the chicks enough feed inside their coop to last tonight.
Chris, if you like I can send you a recipe for biscuits you can make. They are great with all sorts of food, but wonderful filled with eggs,cheese,ham, or sausage. The ones in the South are mostly made with buttermilk, which gives the bread a wonderful flavor. I know, I may make me a couple for supper 🙂
Take care all
Sue, get you some rest too
Tonie
Tonie, I’m pleased to hear your sister’s knee surgery is finally on the mend but was surprised out on it in the weather. Bet she was totally sick of being cooped Very cold here but not as cold as you..no snow or ice. Jim helped last night and we got our lovely roll top desk emptied, sort of. All of the sitting there yesterday did my back in. Looks like I’ll be peeling vegies tonight. With so many drawers it was like a walk down memory lane. Now we’re shredding old files like mad. I was upset with Jim for buying this expensive shredder but don’t tell him but it’ s wonderful Never jams up, cross cuts, etc. I know my DD and SIL will enjoy the desk and enjoy all the space. Saved us from having to run ad add, etc. My lovely old desk chair belonged to my Dad who used to use it to sit in at his upholstery shop. When I took it years ago, I scrubbed it up and he was shocked that the wood was so beautifully inlaid.My GS will be moving into his new room soon, when his Dad finishes redoing it and will be able to use the chair at a new desk they’ve ordered to go under his bunk or at another desk made by SIL’s Dad. I’m so sentimental and all the kids are, too, even the grands. As you probably remember my daughter and SIL have been remodeling a lovely old Gustav Stickley Craftsman home. .
Well, dear girl, do rest and stay warm. Sounds like the critters are doing just fine.Love, Sue
Sue:
I was surprised she came out as well. Mary’s hubbies was driving her, so no worries. Yes she had been quite cooped up. Glad that they can use the desk, always good to keep it in the family. Hope you got your veggies done up tonight. I am awake and watching an old tv show on ME TV. Love that station. Well I need to see if I can get back t sleep. THe rain has lulled for a bit, I am praying no snow !! 🙂 Take care dear friend
Love
Tonie
Yea Tonie ..that’ll be great..altho I don’t know if I can get buttermilk here…can I use something else just maybe ordinary milk?
Just changed all the bed stuff inc a change of mattress cover,as that’s quilted too.and turned mattress over thought it wud help my back.huh..other bits hurt!!
Sounds really cold with you
Jennie. Cold with you still all those pressies sound the bees kness
Chris
Chris,
Here’s a substitute or two for buttermilk:
Making a recipe that calls for buttermilk? Use this simple substitute, and you won’t need to buy any:
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes
Ingredients:
•Milk (just under one cup)
•1 Tablespoon white vinegar or lemon juice
Preparation:
1. Place a Tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice in a liquid measuring cup.
2. Add enough milk to bring the liquid up to the one-cup line.
3. Let stand for five minute. Then, use as much as your recipe calls for.
Have heavy cream in the fridge? If so, you have everything you need to make real buttermilk:
Making a recipe that calls for buttermilk? Use this simple substitute, and you won’t need to buy any:
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Ingredients:
•Heavy cream (avoid ultra-pasteurized)
Preparation:
1. Fill a jar halfway with heavy cream. Then, screw the lid on firmly (a canning jar works well for this purpose).
2. Start shaking the jar back and forth. After several minutes, the cream will thicken and turn into whipped cream. Keep shaking until the whipped cream is replaced with a yellow glob (butter) and a separate liquid (buttermilk).
3. Pour the buttermilk out of the jar, and use it in any recipe that calls for buttermilk.
To Use the Butter: Knead it under cold water for a couple minutes to remove any remaining buttermilk (it will spoil very quickly, if you don’t). Then, salt (if desired), and store in the refrigerator until you’re ready to use it.
Lyn, Cool tips. I’ve used the first one many times but not the second. Good and helpful. Isn’t this fun sharing recipes all over the world.? Later…Sue
Lyn, I was gonna tell her the first one, never used the 2nd but you sure can, easier than using a churn 🙂
I’ve never used the second, either, but have done the first. I just happened to see it and thought I’d include it. 🙂 Sorry I couldn’t continue at the time. I had a student. Now I’m done for the evening. Yay!
Tonie, I’m happy to hear how well your sister is doing also. Meant to say that before. I was as surprised as Sue to hear she was out in the mess today, but perhaps she was getting a bit stir crazy.
Well, everyone, the boy is home, sort of. He brought another fellow who lives near us home also and is there eating dinner with him. A just reward after enduring “awful traffic”. I did warn him about the traffic. Guess he didn’t believe me.
Now for a little down time. DH is actually off this evening so we can enjoy a little down time together. 🙂 Have a nice, safe and warm evening, everyone. And thanks for the prayers for the boys’ travel. 🙂
Lyn, Glad he’s almost home safely. We all have to be so vigilant in bad weather, don’t we? Enjoy your quiet evening with your DH.
Time for me to catch some dinner when Jim gets home..him leftover French dip and me, a frozen pot pie. Dogs have been fed, Grands have gone home and SIL will pick up desk tomorrow. Kids want to come help me set the table. Feeling festive. Tried to put lights up in the front window but all bad..think they’re the four strings I had outside last year. Cheap enough to run out Friday and buy some new ones. Dining room a bit of a clutter from emptying out all those drawers but it felt so good to get rid of so much old junk. We all need to purge at least every 15 years. I can’t believe how much the paper trail builds up in our lives. Wish the catalog companies would stop sending them out. What a waste of trees. Stay warm and enjoy tonight. Love, Sue
I know what you mean, Sue. All that wasted paper with unwanted catalogues and such. It does feel good to do a good purge from time to time. Sounds like you found a perfect solution to your desk problem. You’ll figure out the clean up/reorganization. What fun to start a new tradition of the kids helping with table setting!
Dear Friends, Yes, I think it will feel festive for the kids and lighten my load a little bit, helping me. Not using Jim’s Mom’s sterling but using my Oneida stainless with gold trim. Very impressive to children..if only all that glittered was…I love a beautifully set table. Little GD has already asked me if we are going to use the same crimson colored runner over the lace tablecloth we used last year. What a memory that kid has. Think I”ll have a bit of an adventure with them and see if we can find some Christmas lights to string in the front window. Now that is quite an adventure if you could see the huge plastic containers Jim has it all stored in.
I’m currently taking an afternoon break, resting my wrist and shoulder from chopping root vegies..they’re so hard. I have graters, etc. but nothing to chop into little squares or rounds. Already cooked the cranberry sauce, made cornbread last night for the stuffing and after this will chop up the celery and onions and water chestnuts for stuffing. Those I can do in the food processor. DD is doing the pies and homemade rolls. GD likes to help her. They’re never too young. My son’s kids also like to cook and are older now.
Both of my kids have asked me this week for my apple pie recipe. It’s a bit different.
Well all, try to stay warm and rest when you must. WIsh I could shake the acute pain in my back from don’t think that fracture is quite healed yet. Therefore it is rest and work…Thinking of each of you with affection. Sue
Sue, I have a chopper called the “Vidalia” it has different screens to pop in it to chop with and is so easy to use, and quick. Maybe you can look into it ?? I used it at Ms Alice’s today to get the celery and onions out of the way. I will get there early in the am and put the turkey on, then make everything except the dressing ( need the turkey broth for that) Not been up to snuff today, the wind is back at it again and it is very very cold. My heart has actually been doing it’s little fibbing trick off and on all day, so don’t know what is up. I am tucked in bed after a nice hot shower so I can rest up. Didn’t sleep well last night, so that may be the culprit. My son called me around 11, had been calling me all am and I didn’t hear the phone ring. He came to pick up his dad, and wanted some eggs 🙂 Well, everyone have a blessed and safe Thanksgiving, no matter where you are.
Love to all
Tonie
Lyn
That’s great what an easy way to do it. Thank you
Hope you had a good evening with all home safe. It’s a nice feeling to be all at home together
Well all of you have a good time and get some rest too remember .
Hope the weather doesn’t get a colder for lyn and Tonie
It’s cold here but not that cold
Yep awake again its 5ish!
Chris
HEY CHRIS,,,,,,,,,COURSE YOU CAN GET BUTTERMILK IN THE UK….SAINSBURY’S HAVE BEEN SELLING IT FOR YEARS, I USED TO USE IT IN SCONES SOMETIMES WHEN I LIVED IN THE UK, GOT IT OVER HERE TOO. GREAT IDEA OF LYN’S THOUGH. ……….XX JEN
Hey Chris:
Here I am awake as well. Been up since 2 and it is 3:30. Watching Boris Karloff’s old series “THriller”. Love these old shows. I have used the buttermilk sub a lot. My mother taught me that one. Take care, hope you get rested up
Tonie
Morning (again). Well we have a skift of snow out there, but not bad. I see vehicles going easily on the road so gonna get out of here and go to work this am. I already got cabin fever just from yesterday ! That is what happened to me last winter when I didn’t get out any. Not gonna do that this year 🙂 Oh well, this will give me a chance to get things started for the dinner tomorrow. I can go ahead and make the pies, and cut up veggies. Got me a headache this am, but hopefully the coffee will make it go away. Have a wonderful day all.
Love
TOnie
HI FOLKS………I KNOW YOU WILL ALL BE BUSY GETTING READY FOR YOUR BIG DAY TOMORROW, AND WON’T HAVE MUCH TIME FOR BLOGGING, SO MAY I WISH YOU ALL A FABULOUS THANKSGIVING DAY, AND IF YOU ARE ALL HEADING OFF FOR BLACK FRIDAY ON THE 29TH, WATCH WHAT YOU SPEND, YOU GOT CHRISTMAS NEXT MONTH…….ONLY KIDDING, GET YOURSELVES SOME BARGAINS GIRLS….WE NOW HAVE BLACK FRIDAY IN THE UK, BUT I AM NOT THERE ANYMORE, SO MISSING OUT ON ALL COUNTS….THAT SUCKS………..LOVE YOU GUYS…..JENNIE XXXXXXXXXX
Chris, no problem! My mom shared the first substitute with me, but I didn’t trust my memory, so I looked it up and found the second as well. Worth sharing. I dislike buying a bunch of buttermilk for a recipe then having the rest spoil because I don’t use it for anything else.
Jennie, thank you! The only Black Friday shopping I plan on possibly doing is online! Of course, then you have to wonder if there will be better deals on Cyber Monday… And frankly, if you can wait and are not concerned about sell out of a particular item it is usually best to wait for closer to Christmas, or if not seeing a recipient until after Christmas, after Christmas. 🙂 I may drag up some decorations that day and see what the cats will leave alone instead.
It is cold and miserable here today. We had snow flurries and lots of cold rain go through and now the temps are to drop for a while. I’m feeling it. Already under a warm blanket (and Lily) after a morning of errands. Brrrrr!
I DIDN’T KNOW ABOUT CYBER MONDAY LYN, WHERE THE HELL DID THAT COME FROM???? I WASN’T GOING TO DRAG OUT MY TREE THIS YEAR EITHER,IT WAS ONLY THE KIDS DECIDING TO COME OVER THAT CHANGED MY MIND……………NOW THE LOTS GOING TO BE DRAGGED OUT, I AM GOING TO DECORATE THE HOUSE TO WITHIN AN INCH OF ITS LIFE, HA HA!!!! ENJOY TOMORROW SWEETHEART, BE THINKING OF YOU…………..LOVE JENNIE XX
Jennie, I love the picture of your highly decorated house crying out for Christmas mercy. I can almost hear mine groan and because it’s small, I have to take down regular stuff in order to put up Christmas stuff. I’m pooped tonight but the table is set for the morrow and we’re all looking forward to it. Hope you’re feeling better..Love you within an inch of your life…my Mom used to say that..Sue
Happy Thanksgiving to everyone! Janet
Janet !! Happy Thanksgiving to you as well !! Hope you are doing well, miss seeing you post !
Love
Tonie
Tonie, I read every word that all of you write, but due to tremors in my hands writing is difficult, lots of going back and fixing, otherwise it would be unreadable. Just know that all of you are always in my thoughts and prayers. Janet
AND TO YOU JANET LOVE……………….JENNIE X
Hi
Well happy thanksgiving to all
Didnt know buttermilk sold here .i wouldn’t I suppose as DD was allergic to milk and also GS
And DH been on a lw cholesterol diet for years I don’t get to visit that counter.all creams etc are a no go area for us.we use all low fat stuff and use low fat Greek yogurt instead of cream
But I think I could use semi low fat milk and lemon juice to make buttermilk
Anyway have a good and restfull time tomorrow
All best Chris
Chris, you can also put cider vinegar in the milk to make it. That is what mother used. I didn’t read it good I guess. I will get that recipe to you shortly. Hope your Dad is doing well.
Hugs
Tonie
Jennie, Cyber Monday is the Monday after Thanksgiving. Online stores offer sales much like Black Friday. 🙂
Thanks, Janet! Happy Thanksgiving to everyone! Even if you’re not from the States, I think we all can, and should, be thankful for so much in our lives. Have a blessed day, all!
ABSOLUTELY XXXXXXXXXXXXX
HI all, I’ve got a bit of the “fog” too, so won’t write much. Martha, my holiday memories center around my Grandmother, too. What a great cook! I’ve been humming her favorite Christmas song all day long, and I guess memories of Thanksgiving around her table just has her on my mind. Her name was Nellie and she loved the song “up on the housetop, click, click, click, down the chimney comes good Saint Nick……first comes the stocking of little Nell, oh dear Santa, fill it well.” She used to laugh and say, with an awful name like “Nellie”, it would never make it’s way into another song!
Sue, every time I go to the mountains, or the ocean, I am filled with awe of the people who dared to sail her and make their way across the forests and mountains, to settle this land. It just seem insurmountable to me. When we used to drive up in the mountains very often, Ed like to stop at unusual rock formations, go touch them, and say “I wish you could talk and tell me what you’ve seen.” I understood just what he was feeling.
Tonie, our weather down here is awful, and really rare this early in the season. Freezing here too, we’ve had some freezing rain and tonight we are supposed to have snow and freezing rain mix.I do hope the weather men are wrong. This darn barometer changes have me aching from neck to toes. And I haven’t done “cold” well for quite a long time.
Sue, I have a Yorkie, they are so loving and sweet. Ed had one when we got married, and he hated women. It took him a long time to warm up to me, but I felt like one day he decided I was “their” woman, so I was okay. He then became very protective of me. He was always Ed’s dog, and never loved me. When he died, we got our girl, Sammy. Sammy loves us both, and her world was complete when she was with the two of us. When we hugged, she insisted we pick her up and let her in on the hug. I think her world would have been complete if the 3 of us had been joined at the hip. When the other dogs came in, she gave up her alpha position, I think mainly because she’s a peacemaker at heart. The only time she crosses them is if they try to get into my bed. She sleeps with me, and she think that’s her privilege, and her’s alone. She will patrol the parameters of the bed, and bite and growl at either of them who try to jump up there. But, she kisses both the other dogs goodnight before she comes to bed.
For someone who started out saying “I’m not going to say much”, I sure have rambled on. Hope I made sense!
Do want to wish all a wonderful, love filled Thanksgiving. Oh, I can’t remember who gave the US version of Thanksgiving, but did you know that the meats served were mostly seafood? That was the most available and easiest obtained there at Plymouth Rock. There was probably a wild turkey or two, but primarily, seafood. I love seafood, but at Thanksgiving, I have to have my cornbread dressing, and I can’t imagine that going well with fish. My sister Rosa was the only one who ate cranberry sauce, and I always put it out, either for her, or in her honor. I miss her so much at holiday times.
love and prayers to all.
Linda
Linda:
So GOOD to see you on here. It is bitterly cold here this am as well. in the low teens ! I woke up way early so I have lots of time. Not going up that mtn til it thaws out a bit 🙂 I pray you have a most blessed day with your family and fur-babies. Take care and talk to us more often 🙂
Love
Tonie
Good to hear from you, Linda! Miserable up here, too. Love the picture you paint of your Grandmother. I know you must be missing your Rosa so today. Sending warm cyber hugs.
SUE…………YUP! I HAVE TO CLEAR THE HOUSE OF REGULAR ORNAMENTS ETC, THEN HOIK THE TREE AND THE DECS UP FROM THE CELLAR, I TELL YOU IF IT WERE NOT FOR THE KIDS…………………………………………………!!!!!!!
I HOPE YOU HAVE A GREAT DAY TODAY MY FRIEND, AND HAVE YOUR LOVED ONES AROUND YOU, THATS WHAT ITS ALL ABOUT ISN’T IT………WISH I COULD BE THERE WITH YOU, I KNOW I SAY THAT ALL THE TIME, BUT THE HAPPIEST THING FOR ME BEFORE I SNUFF IT, WOULD BE TO MEET YOU ALL FROM ACROSS THE POND…..ONE GREAT BIG SHINDIG EEHAW!!!!, LOVE AND BIG HUGS………….CATCH YOU LATER…….JENNIE XXXXXXX
Happy Thanksgiving to all of you, even those of you who do not celebrate, have a fine day. Linda and Janet, we understand why you can’t often get on here but it is a good feeling to know you are reading along with us. I know it’s an odd concept how so many perfect strangers can feel so close but that is what has happened here. We are brothers and sisters sharing a battle. Be good to yourselves today, enjoy your loved ones and don’t eat too much. Love to each of you..Sue
Wonderful day of family and tasty food. Now, time to snuggle up under a blanket with my kindle while DH snoozes in front of the football game. 😉
Oh wow ! LOONNNGG day, but it went so quickly ! I had lots of fun with the Carmondy/O’Grady family ! Great bunch. Everything came out great, not one hiccup. In at 10, dinner at 4, home by 6:30 !! But boy are my dawgs worn out, not to mention my back ! All that and $$$ too ! Wonderful day, I am so blessed. Just got off the phone with the grands. I spoke with my daughter, and Dalton, another grandson. Brought scraps home for all the animals, horses, cats, dogs and chickens ! Leftover turkey and dressing for me ! Now to snuggle down on my heated blanket, digest all that mess of CARBS and GLUTEN I ate and then to top it off, a wonderful restful sleep ! I pray you all had as wonderful a day as I did. Love you all
Tonie
Morning all:
Well today is “payday”. When I (and we) pay for all the activity of the previous day. But I am still thankful I can just relax and not have to do anything unnecessary today. Hope you are all doing well, some of you are probably out shopping. I don’t envy you that ! But I pray you find good things to buy. Have a wonderful day all and rest your weary bones. Even those of you who didn’t have Thanksgiving yesterday, you can still use the rest 🙂
Love
Tonie
WELL IT SEEMS THOSE OF YOU FIT ENOUGH AFTER YESTERDAYS ACTIVITIES TO BE UP AND ABOUT, HAVE HAD A WONDERFUL TIME………I AM SO HAPPY FOR YOU, TAKE IT EASY AWHILE NOW AND REST TUMMIES, NURSE HEADS, HA HA !!! LOVE YOU ALL, GOD BLESS………………JENNIE XXXXXX
Jennie dear, As for us, we’re having a quiet day. Jim had to go by the jail to check on someone and is washing the car. It’s cold yet dry outside. DD and her family are all coming back tonight because she and I were both too exhausted last night to find containers for them take home for leftovers. I suspect a couple of the guys are going to have pizza. I know…how could they??? I didn’t care for the turkey. I don’t think free range turkeys are for me. Even the breast meat was stringy. I have a feeling this bird worked out too much. The rest of the food was excellent and we have enough for a small army. My dear man shooed everybody out when he saw Beth and I drooping and hand washed all my good dishes and silverware. The man’s a prince I tell you…Later, have to run…Sue
OH Lyn, I do miss Rosa so much. I can’t help but think of us getting up bright and early Thanksgiving Day to watch the Macy’s parade on TV. One of the highlights of the season for us. It seems to get more and more lonely without her. Oh holidays, she and I would eat potato salad and dressing for days after, both of us loved that.
Tonie, we hit a whopping hot 49 today! I, for one, am grateful for that! It’s amazing how much pain calms down as the temp goes up.
Around here, when hogs were butchered, pregnant women were absolutely forbidden to see any part of it. Old folks said it “marked” the baby. Of course, everyone had absolute proof this was true, most had a story of a baby born with a birthmark which looked like a patch of pig hide. I had to be careful not to let them see me laugh at these stories! Even as a kid, I found a lot of their stories “farfetched”. But I do know they believed them with all their hearts.
Lyn, my Grandmother was quite something. I think I admire her more than any woman I have ever known. She had so much common sense and the wisdom that comes with age. She was considered by far the best cook in the extended family, and it really would tick her off if someone made something others considered “better than Nellie’s”. At holiday time, she would put a meal for 30 on the table, and made it seem to happen magically. And, with my family, they ate like they were starving, talked a while, then started over. So, a lot of food was in order! She also built barns, chicken coops, put up fences, made quilts and collected snakes. I never got that last one, I have always had a real horror of reptiles. I never knew of anything she couldn’t do. She was a very pretty lady, but never thought so. Her older sister died in the 1912 (right year?) flu epidemic. My great grandmother told her “God gave me a rose and a thorn, he took my rose and left you.” I thought that was so mean, but grandma thought it was okay, as she didn’t think of herself as pretty. Grandma had a twin brother, an older brother and a younger one. She fought with them like a boy, and won. My Grandad came from a rowdy bunch of drinkers. They were making fun of him one night because he had “never whipped Nellie’s ass”. So, he being drunk too, called her to the room, and informed her of his intent. It took his dad and 7 brothers to pull her off him, and a couple of them ended up with black eyes, too. Now, that’s my granny. Along with a heart of gold. She was downtown one day, and saw a lady on the street crying. Grandma stopped and asked her what was wrong. The lady told Grandma she had a new job as a waitress and was to start that day, and had neither a pencil to write down orders, nor a pair of stockings to wear. Grandma took her into Belks and bought her a pair of stockings, gave her a ball point pen, and gave her a couple of dollars to eat lunch before she went to work. My mom sort of chided Grandma for this, and grandma said that as Christians, there was more than one way to pay tithes and honor God. Who could not admire her? If we heard a noise outside, she would get a flash light, take us out and make us “find our boogie man”. I’m so glad of that, for I’ve never been afraid at night alone, or of noises I heard outside. Most all things have a rational explanation.
About the buttermilk, I often use it in my cakes, especially the denser cakes like a pound cake. Buttermilk makes them so tender. I also use it in any bread I make. If the recipe calls for sweet milk (that’s regular milk to you non-southern folks!), I always substitute buttermilk. My mom used to make a prune cake, and the icing consisted of buttermilk and sugar. No one ever believed her when she told them that. And, we took left over cornbread and crumbled it into the buttermilk…and we called it “good eating”.
So much has been said that I wanted to respond to, but, my memory is still a tad foggy, and I can’t remember who said what.I have great hopes of this passing. Nana Barbara, always good to see you. Always good to see all of you. I count you all among my dearest friends.
Love, hugs, and prayers
Linda
Linda, I loved your entry. Your family comes back to life for all of us. I think we feel the same connection you do because we went through so much with you during your losses a couple of years ago. I also salt buttermilk and when corn bread isn’t available I like to crumble potato chips into it and eat it with a spoon. These memories, your sister, your grandma…these are all pieces of you and you shared it so beautifully. Hope you’re eating dressing/stuffing and potato salad today.Thank you dear friend and do take care of yourself..Much love, Sue…stay warm.
Linda:
Sweet smiling memories for me reading your entry ! I know you miss Rosa so much, we all got to know her by your entries and sharing with us. “Markin” the baby, oh yes, they used to scare me with stories. Who knows ?? Sweet milk, light bread (that is store bought sandwich bread) Oh yeah, cornbread and butter milk, great for what ails ya ! . I prefer it with sweet milk 🙂 The traditions and memories handed down, all so precious. Glad to see you back
Love
Tonie
ps, it was actually warm enough here I opened the door for a few hours !! Loved it !
Hope everyone had a wonderful Thanksgiving!
I love the buttermilk stories. My dad owned a dairy and I grew up not baking wit buttermilk but drinking it … with a sprinkle of salt.
When I had the flu last winter I sent Ken out to find some for me t drink but none of the stores had any available.
We have had our first snow storm and today was -15C so winter has arrived. The Poms Korry and Teddy were so excited to go out and play. It is almost a month since we lost Kodi Bear and there are still tears from both of us, and Teddi is still grieving (he adored Kodi) but Korry is back to normal it seems and trying very hard to fill his new alpha role. Linda, Teddi is just like our pup about the bed. If I lie down to rest he comes with me and will bark ay anyone that comes near the bed … that is our special time!
Much love … Brenda
PS: the Brenda who posted was not me, I am posting as Pommum.
Nana B :
It has already been a month , I know you are still grieving and will be for some time. Poor Teddi, I always wonder what they think when one is there and then gone. Korry is the new alpha huh ?? I always figured Teddi was. Both my boys go with me wherever. But Cesar is the protector. Of me and the abode !
No buttermilk huh ?? Well you will have to try the recipe and make your own one day ! I like it salty as well.
Take care sweetie and stay warm. GIve the poms a squeeze from us.
Love
Tonie
When I could find “fresh” buttermilk, I loved to salt it and drink it. Drinking store bought is just not quite the same. I don’t know of a soul who makes their own butter and buttermilk, now. Guess I need to do a search for that!
Pommum/Nana Brenda, Thanks for telling us it was our other Brenda. Poor girl..I’ll try to reach her. I know a month is not nearly long enough to recover from this loss. There is an innocence of love with our pets that is almost celestial. Korry and Teddy are so fortunate that you understand what they are going through and understand. I suspect they also understand what you and DH are experiencing. Is it good to be home? I can’t believe how much you got accomplished at the cottage this year..well, actually every summer since you bought it. It is such an enrichment for you and your family and also for all of us as we share your life. Hope you’re enjoying what is to come with Christmas and feeling as well as you can. Hope the new doctor works out well for you but I suspect it will since your older rheumy picked him for you. Along with your many burden, you have many gifts. What a life, huh? Love you , Sue