All about Aunts

Aunts: Minnie, Carrie and Luanne (with mother Jessie)

ALL ABOUT AUNTS? Not really…there is little possibility of writing all about aunts…just too much to be said.

Even so, I’ve been thinking “way hard” about Aunt Carrie lately. Such thoughts are always pleasant and were enhanced by a conversation with Aunt Luanne. I could not help but be reminded of what pleasant voices are a part of my Aunts’ acquaintance. Aunt Luanne doesn’t sound a day over thirty; Aunt Minnie had a soft husky voice, a voice with a smile inside; Aunt Carrie sounded like, well, Aunt Carrie. She seemed to have an accent all her own, or perhaps it was her laughter that so distinguished her. I do wish I could sit in a circle and hear them each talk again.

But back to Aunt Carrie: she used to send me mail. Her letters revealed her intelligence, creativity, sensitivity and concern for others. One time she wrote in the margin of a postcard, “You have your mother’s hands.” That seemed such a kind and comforting thought to me (and I hope to her). Aunt Carrie, she had very gifted hands … such as run in Miller/Minney bloodstream for both boys and girls. Like others of her generation she could not allow those hands to sit idle long, if ever. What a lovely world of embroidery, crocheting and quilting she turned out. In fair weather she set her hands to tending flowers and gardening. Everything beautiful engaged her eye and heart; became integrated into her daily patterns. Part of that claimed beauty was a very neat house. White-bright linens, shiny floors and clean sinks made hers a space to savor. I often recall the rented cottage at the Shock-Tanner junction – flowers by the porch and a new quilt in the frame; and the Miller homestead closet where her ironed linens awaited use. Aunt Carrie would never have judged her life to be exceptional; but what an extraordinary example and heritage she’s left us. So tell me, can you think of Aunt Carrie and not smile in your heart. No, I didn’t think so.

Now Aunt Luanne is reading this with a hearty amen, without thought of what might be said of her. She would not likely tell you her hands are likewise gifted … as she hasn’t a penchant for needlework that I’m aware of. But oh, she does have gifted hands … hands that have prepared countless Sunday dinners for her family; hands that have written tender words to brothers and other kin – words that bind a family many times over; hands that teach and nurture children (so many over the years) at school, at church, at home; hands that fold in prayer for all the souls she holds so dear. Nor are her hands ever idle. How do I know? Because recently when instructed to get some bed rest she complied about 12 hours and then her hands just had to do something useful – not grandiose – just a simple task like opening cans to make a bit of bean salad.

And another thing…I do not recall every hearing Aunt Luanne’s sweet voice complain about a single solitary thing even when facing some pretty stiff challenges. But yesterday I heard her voice wistfully speak of missing the work her hands would find to do were she but able. Well, she’s shown the way for others to share in her stead and her smiles would spur anyone along that good path.

Hands and voices, smiles and laughter linger still and speak volumes. I hope my heart is listening.

It Must Be December…

We’re still full to overflowing with lovely Thanksgiving memories. Just made and packaged the first batch of instant spiced tea for seasonal gifting. Gentle piano/guitar carols are playing on the CD. And, we’re having our first snow. Yes, it’s December.

DH is up in the woods hoping the snow will make deer more visible and apt to roam earlier (as in before dark). We have some in the freezer, but with other children, grandchildren expected before month’s end, it wouldn’t hurt to seal up another deer or two for their freezers as well. It’s a good excuse for woods tramping, and since he seems to be less bothered by heart symptoms this week, how can he be denied the pleasure. There is something so soothing about snowy woodlands – until that clump of snow falls down your neck, anyway.

Childish of me, I know, but I do love snow – the fresh air cleanness, the silence, the dreaminess, the calm. Seems to me not many Decembers come to West Virginia without a bit of snow in the first week. This is perhaps a prelude to winter weather that won’t settle in for a while. Does give one room to hope, though!

It’s time to bring in a pine bough or two and add some orange slices, cinnamon and cranberries to the steam pot on the wood stove. Maybe also time to curl up with a wisp or two of childhood fancy? Presents were fewer in those days. I recall one “big” practical present (usually clothing) and as many little things as Mom could stuff, make and imagine on a limited budget. I remember apples, oranges, nuts, homemade fruitcakes, stuffed turkey and colored lights, tinsel icicles on a fresh-cut tree. Anticipation … it was all about happy anticipation.

And with that we choose to forget that rooms were a bit drafty in our cinder block house, space heaters burned in each room on the main floor and still the windows frosted, then melted through the day. We stuffed old towels around the sills of metal framed windows to keep them from dripping on the floor. Two bedrooms up stairs were split between boys and girls, and since there was only one boy and four girls, the girls slept in two double beds in one room. But heat rises so those rooms were always toasty. I don’t remember ever feeling deprived. Our country relatives thought we lived in luxury (and indeed we did) off in the big city of Charleston, but we liked visiting the country tremendously, too.

If December is the time for making a list and checking it twice … the doublet for mine will be still be counting blessings and planning how to share them.

ANOTHER NOVEMBER

When she walks through the door cloaked in clouds and rain, November may seem dreary. Not so this year. Here at Teelside we've had sunny days, crisp and cool, but sunny. Nights have dipped into freezing and brought down leaves. Still, leaves floating through sunshine lend cheer and peace.

Travels south for a grandson's wedding and visits with DSIL's and DD kept me away for most of the autumn color. Flying back home over the West Virginia hills was thrilling - though not quite so much for me as the returning soldiers (7-months out) that sat across the aisle. And there is yet enough fresh fall scent in the air for absorption. Ahh-h-h-h.

It's hunting season again. DH is gone for hours - watching deer, squirrel, 'possoms and turkeys from his tree stands. He's happy for a dry first of the season as well. Imagine his disappointment when three deer stood 10-20 feet away and he had not the strength to pull back the bow. Age is tricky. That slip, however, was easily corrected by dropping the tension on the bow back a few notches/pounds before venturing out another day.

While DH plays (and prays) in the woods, I sit by the fire reminiscing and reading. I'm enjoying that, though I keenly miss the handwork postponed by a sprained wrist. We do miss what we lose use of -- strength of hand or summer glory. Thankfully, most loss comes with a replacement of greater value. The Lord is so gracious that way. Each season brings it's own joy and, passing with time, leaves hope for fresh new sheets upon the calendar.

While I sit by the fire remembering, it's tempting to wish I could drift back and relive those calendar pages. But then that is exactly what I do in memory, isn't it. I wish all changes were easily restored; or that every precious memory would hold through every season; but such is not the way of life. Seasons come and go. And though some seasons bring troubles that settle softly with the leaves, we know the Lord Himself sustains the seasons and will gently heal our wounded hearts.

Wait on the Lord...in due season.

TRIP OF A LIFETIME

TRIP OF A LIFETIME – ALASKAN CRUISE 2009
Teelside Log, Friday, September 11, 2009

“Plan for flexibility” being the motto of standby travel, we did so by heading for Seattle a day sooner than really necessary, just in case. We lifted off from CRW @ 7:00AM and arrived at SEA @ 10:20AM without a hitch. Before noon we had been shuttled from the airport by the motel and were settled into the Rodeway Inn – not the most luxurious accommodation on the block, but certainly adequate. As Denny’s restaurant was within walking distance; we opted for a mid-afternoon meal there then took a very warm stroll up the hill and around the block.

Bedtime could hardly come soon enough and we slept well. I was up at 6AM and we tootled over to Denny’s again for an 8:30AM breakfast. The air was pleasantly cool so we took a long walk down the hill – just hangin’ out for the morning, awaiting the Snow’s arrival. DSIL & Co. arrived early afternoon and we were off to Denny’s again. We took another walk to the near 7-11 store for sodas and then on the way back to the motel hand-picked dessert: fresh blackberries on vines in the alley. Our bodies were on the west coast, but heads were still on eastern seaboard time and bedtime seemed tardy … we slept very soundly again.

Cruise Log: SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 13, 2009
SEATTLE, WASHINGTON, USA
12:00nn Weather: Wind 8kts, Cloudy sky, 20°C / 68°F
3:15pm Passenger boat drill
3:45pm Let go all lines, commenced sea voyage

After Sunday services, two private carriers transported us to the dock. Our great adventure was underway. Tagged luggage was whisked away from the trunks of carrier cars and dock to mysteriously reappear in our stateroom later in the day. Registering online made the check-in process brief and painless. We were assigned a group number and waited in a large area to be called for boarding. There were two ships boarding at the same time, but somehow they managed to steer us to the right one. There were cookies and lemonade on the sidelines – the first of seemingly infinite food offerings. We waited our turn for all aboard. Rooms weren’t ready yet, but the scattered boarding meant the Lido Deck (9) with myriad late lunch buffets would not be swamped by 1,500+ guests in one clump. Having already determined this would be my chance to try dishes never before tasted, the first thing on my plate was sushi, rounded out with a small bowl of oriental chicken/rice, then a plate with grilled salmon and spinach. YUM!

Sharing room 4016 with the DBIL/DSIL was easy … like their company. Friends had the cabin next to ours. Tight quarters, like all ships, but we managed to stash clothing in closets/shelves and hide the suitcases under beds. We had a nice veranda and spent some time there every day. Before leaving dock there was the obligatory boat drill at a near station, but were instructed over the intercom to leave life vests behind. Was that because after donning the vests (stored in the bottom of our closets) we’d be too wide to get out the narrow cabin doors? Those in charge were wearing their life vests and could count heads per station which must meet drill criteria. I was feeling uneasy about being in front row separated from Wayne until Bob reminded me of the rule of the sea: “women and children off first.” That done, we returned “home” to watch from the veranda as the ship “let go all lines” and sailed forth from Seattle’s harbor.

The six of us sallied forth about 5:30 for our evening meal in the Vista Dining Room. We were seated at table 189 and introduced to waiters Reza and Agus. After a delightful ‘supper’ (though I am sure they would never call it that – a meal where the waiter puts your napkin in your lap for you must have a fancier name!) we left a request for the same time, table and servers for the week. Our ears were greeted with chamber music as we left the dining room. A nice string quartet was playing in the sidelined Explorer’s Lounge … so there we stood – Wayne with his eyes closed soaking up sound, me watching the sea waves pass hypnotically to the strains of Vivaldi – enraptured!

The evening filled out with a mini-show in the Vista Lounge to give us a sample of programs, music and comedy to come, then it was back to our room. Beds all turned – Wayne had the bunk that dropped down from the ceiling (over Dot and Ken’s poor heads) and I had the sofa, turned out by the veranda doors. It had been a long day and we were ready to turn in. That’s when I fell in love – lying in the bed, rocking to sleep with the waves. Better than codeine, it was a wonderful sweet-float sensation, with no diminished senses. I’m surprised they ever got me to move!

Cruise Log: MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 14, 2009
AT SEA
12:00nn Position: 51°30.9'N 1130° 32.3'W
Weather: Wind 6kts, Cloudy sky, 13°C / 53°F

The next meal pattern was established by DBIL/me leaving a bit early for Lido deck coffee (breakfast to follow). We are typical earlier risers and so could claim a table for siblings DH/DSIL to join us. Of course they were well ensconced in conversation as they arrived and we were on our third cup of java. DBIL favors eggs Benedict; I tried eggs Florentine the next day. Generally, I settled on fruit (ate my weight in apricots) cheese and a hard dark “peasant” roll for the day’s first meal. When spouses/siblings arrived I sometimes switched from coffee to Earl Grey tea. Obviously the supplies of food and drink were endless!

Monday was the day to find a way around the ship. DH’s first forage was sick bay – poor baby does not like motion (does not do carnival rides, either). They fixed us up with some meclizine, enough to carry us through the week as half doses were best. Morning weather was lovely and we started our exploration of the ship with a few rounds of Deck 3 where outer decks allowed full circle walking. We made no use of some onboard facilities – casino, bars, swimming pools (for obvious reasons); little use of others, because some amenities get pricey. But it was interesting to browse the shops (whoever could use that much jewelry?), sample the scents drifting from the spa, and check out décor of gathering areas on decks 2-11. You had to go through the casino to get to the dining room (planned, no doubt); the Vista Lounge was really a theater area and aside from stage acts, it also served for several naturalists/natives educational talks and other meetings. There was a nice library; several computer classes offered. A studio-type kitchen arena featured cooking and later cute towel design demonstrations, daily mass for those interested and evening movies. All of this did not mean we never got lost – it’s pretty easy to lose your bearings on a moving target.

Cruise Log: TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 15, 2009
AT SEA - SCENIC CRUISING GLACIER BAY
12:00nn Position: 58°50.0'N 1136° 32.8'W
Weather: Wind 19kts, Overcast, 100C / 500 F

This was by far our favorite part of the trip. I’d say second only to Niagara Falls “Maid of the Mist” excursion. We did not disembark, but the ship wended its way through several inlets close to high walls of glacier ice, brief beaches and towering mountains. It was cool with some rain, but the rain did not dispel the beauty. To some the dirt and gravel moving along beneath and before the ice may have lessened the splendor of the glaciers, but not to me. Towers of blue ice formed like 100-foot crystals atop layered sand-sculptures of brown, gray and black. The scenery behind the glaciers was equally breathtaking. At John Hopkins glacier we heard ice calving like great claps of thunder. There were seals on floating ice, but my vision did not stretch that far. We saw whale spouts, but no breaching mammals; a brown bear trotting along the shore at some distance; bald eagles in tree tops. I spied a brown seal very close to the rail of our veranda. Another world….or rather, the same majestic world of our Great Creator!

Cruise Log: WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2009
JUNEAU, ALASKA, USA
5:18am Safely docked
12:00nn Weather: Winds 5kts, Overcast sky, 12°C / 52°F
6:39pm Let go all lines, commenced sea voyage

First day in port. It seemed strange to be docked at land again. You wake up and there you are – quite still beside a dock bedecked with bus stops where guides were preparing to hock their tour tickets; tram lines that disappeared in the fog at the top of the high slope and, beyond the parking lot, shop after shop after shop. End of season sale signs proclaimed: The tourists are coming, the tourists are coming!! But before shopping, we did a bus tour out to Mendenhall Glacier. The bus driver’s dialog wasn’t much aid behind fogged windows, but I did catch a glimpse of the sign and building for the Juneau church which heartened me somehow. From the bus stop, we walked a trail where bears had been but were no longer expected, since there was a lull between salmon runs. Something had left behind some pretty foul fish remnants. The bears' absence could be a good thing; it was crowded and escape routes were few – it was hard enough to leave the rotten fish odor behind. At the top of the hill, there was an odd familiarity about Mendenhall; probably because photos of the site are so common. A waterfall adjacent to the glacier was nearly as impressive as the moving ice. Both would have greater impact with closer observation. It was raining again, but we were told to expect that in this tropical rain region. That must be what makes the evergreens so lush.

Interesting facts about Juneau – the only way to get there is sea or air; most buildings (all buildings of any age) are wood; the capitol building is small, has no dome and made of yellow brick; and I missed the perfect chance to photograph Wayne with one of several a life-sized cut-out posters of Sarah Palin. Politically astute or attuned, we must not be.

Cruise Log: THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 17, 2009
SITKA, ALASKA, USA
7:51am At Anchor
12:00nn Weather: Winds 9kts, Overcast sky, 12°C / 53°F
4:42pm Commenced sea voyage

The bay at Sitka is too shallow for docking the cruise ship, so we were taken ashore by lifeboats put into service as “tenders.” This charming city likely claims second place among favored spots. The cameraman had far more shots of this area it seems. Perhaps this is what was in our minds eye view of Alaska. Shore-side cabins among tall pines, boat docks and wooden wharfs, lots of Russian and Indian influences about. Very historical on the surface – ranging from totem poles and stone fort walls to mid-1900 shops along the street. We visited a very nice quilt shop and a Ben Franklin five-n-dime. The latter had front shelves and sidewalks piled with tourist items, but the back of the store was like walking into Charleston’s 1950 version complete with yard goods and craft supplies. I would think there would be time for lots of winter handwork in Alaska, but they say the coastal regions are pretty mild and so may have little need of cabin fever relief. Walking through town we also discovered a grocery store where DH found some caffeine/sugar free cola. [Isn’t it funny how we tend to lean toward home patterns even on distant shores? We lugged those slowly diminishing cokes back to Seattle and left half of them in the motel there as they wouldn’t fly – hope someone found use for them.]

We re-boarded ship in time to get ready for dinner…eating again. By now or soon hereafter (so much eating – it’s all a blur) we have lots of new dishes under our belts. Escargot, calamari, prawns, fillet Mignon and lobster, tiramisu, coffee cheesecake, lemon and mango sherbets, assorted European breads, leafy green salads with exotic dressings, lamb chops, lobster bisque, French onion soup (the only thing I ordered twice), salmon galore, and on and on and on. My favorite appetizer was a spring roll nesting in a luscious (hot) puddle of Thai sauce; my least favorite entrée was the lobster. It was good, but I still like shrimp better. As for escargot – you can eat anything drown in butter and garlic.

Cruise Log: FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 18, 2009
KETCHIKAN, ALASKA, USA
6:45am Safely docked
12:00nn Weather: Wind 4kts, Overcast sky, 13°C / 53°F
12:50pm Let go all lines, commenced sea voyage

What’s to catch in Ketchikan? Salmon, crabs and tourists. B/S left ship early for a zip line adventure, but by the time we were up ‘n at ‘em there wasn’t a lot of time for visitation of the real city. Like Juneau and Sitka our first glimpse of Ketchikan was tourist-ville. I left a bigger dent there than intended, but not in shops. I moved backward off an unseen wharf step and landed (rather hard) on my backside – only real harm was embarrassment for DH – still sore, but recovering well enough with time. You’d think with all this padding…no, don’t go there. We became accustomed to the tourist trends and jewelry shops. Surprises me that gold and diamonds and semi-precious stones are so plentiful in such a sparsely populated state. And then there’s all those “yours from Alaska” trinkets that read “made in China or Philippines” on the reverse of label. But I digress. There are plenty of nature/outdoor activities available earlier in the season, so the case is (again) made for a road trip with more control of a schedule. All of our ports could have used double time for exploration it seemed.

Dinner routine was a bit different this day, as service personnel took a turn at entertaining along with food service. It all began with tossed napkins (versus tossed rolls) to the tune of Blue Danube waltzing; veggie juggling before serving salad and a more fixed menu. The guys had fun and so did we. Baked Alaska was the slated dessert – and who takes an Alaskan cruise without trying baked Alaska??
Another aside about food (since we’re never far from the subject), though supply and variety were endless, it was quite possible to eat reasonably on a cruise. Dinner courses were small proportions and always included whole grains, fruits and no-sugar added ice cream as options. I did say quite possible, not likely. You’ve already noticed that several of my choices were neither sugar nor fat free.


Cruise Log: SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 19, 2009
VICTORIA, BRITISH COLUMBIA, CANADA
12:00nn Weather: Wind 7kts, Partly Cloudy Sky, 15°C / 159°F
6:20pm* Safely docked
11 :30pm* Let go all lines, commenced sea voyage
*Times are estimated

Main Street Victoria was a short taxi trip from the dock. We were not far from nightfall when we hopped out in front of the Empress Hotel, then took a good walk down Government Street and over to the Wharf Street. By the time we circled back to the hotel, darkness had descended and the hotel was lit with lights like a fairytale castle. I like the feel of Victoria and probably would have really liked the botanical gardens had we been early enough in the day or season to take that route. Again, back for our last supper – er, dinner on board and adieu to the sweet serving crew.

As to servers the vast majority were Indonesian “youngsters” – some looked no more than twelve. They work 10-months a year on the ships to support themselves and their families. Perhaps that disconnection makes them more interested and attentive to guests, or perhaps they are just sweet and friendly. Whether by training or nature, they were very pleasant and polite, without exception.

Tired enough to turn in early, as usual, we packed our bags and left them outside the door for transfer to the dock in the wee hours. I don’t know when we left dock to head for Seattle, the dream coming to a close; but I am sure it was after the projected hour before midnight. Or maybe not … I didn’t turn into pumpkin before departure.


Cruise Log: SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 20,2009
SEATTLE, WASHINGTON, USA
5:30am* First line ashore
6:00am* Safely docked
*Times are estimated

There was a full afternoon of sightseeing in Seattle on Sunday’s log. We walked over to the Space Needle and finding long lines, hopped on the monorail to downtown Seattle. Talk about culture shock! I would never have imagined such a sea of people on a Sunday afternoon. For you Sleepless/Seattle fans, we went to the waterfront market, lunched at the Athenian; saw the stools with brass “Rob Reiner/Tom Hanks sat here” tags attached and very recognizable piers outside our window as we ate fish/chips. Then on to an underground tour of the original Seattle street level – so close to sea level that sewers worked backwards (gross) at high tide. Consequently, they redesigned streets by building stone walls, filling them with nearby hillside dirt to bring road and sidewalk levels up one story. The original sidewalks remained in use for some time, then the first floors became basements and the second floors were street level. Pretty ingenious. Present streets are bustling, noisy; a Starbucks on every corner (no surprise); a complex bus system, a big city contingent of homeless street musicians (some sad, some scary), unusual architecture and big spattering of ‘the arts’ throughout. Bus and monorail got us back to the Needle, the large crowd had moved on and we went up to view the city and, of course, Mt. Rainier. Been there, done that and I’m glad for the memory.

Six or seven hours afoot tired tourists make … didn’t take us too long to rearrange for next day travel home and hit the sack. I awoke in the middle of the night and had to giggle. Three tired puppies snoring to beat the band (for the first time in our week of rooming together). I’m sure I joined the chorus when I fell back asleep. Whipped, we were, for sure!

A long day in the airport on Monday and the trip of a lifetime ended Tuesday – wheels down in Charleston just after noon; feet across the threshold of Teelside about 2:30. Time to thank God for the good company, an indescribably wonderful time, absolutely Awesome sights and Providential protection that guarded our journey start to finish.

Signing off …

TIME SHARE

That has come to mean a fun vacation in an unique environment ... that pretty well describes my trip to Alabama. This was the first time I'd visited the Brown family since they moved away from WV (mid 90's - Wesley preached in Chas for 9 years before moving back to his home state). We've had several occasions to reunite as their work brings them to OH & WV, but no opportunity for extended visits. We were so excited when Donna and two daughters planned to join us at the Teel Reunion ... but those plans didn't work out as she was diagnosed and had major cancer surgery just a few weeks before that was to happen. Since she couldn't come to the mountain....we went to her. She wept when I told her I was coming and said, "thank you, Papa for sharing her." That's Donna, always grateful.

The bridal tea -- wedding shower to us Yankees -- was set and the whole family was headed south. We came early and stayed late with a purpose. Since Donna is no longer up to the wedding sewing she planned (bridal and 4 bridesmaids' gowns), the loving work passed from Laurie's mama to her future mama and grandmama in law. (Nina and Donna are great friends, so their all mine...you get the picture.) Also, I was already on board for doing wedding flowers, but hadn't been able to find suitable silk blooms in Charleston. Arriving several days ahead of Nines, we found our blooms and I went to work.

Joe and Wes tagged along with us flower shopping. So funny. We called them the flowermen. A couple days later when the corsages and boutonnieres were done and I was starting on the bouquets I gave Joe the job of cutting those stout stems into similar lengths -- like how could the groom resist a chance to show off muscle? The next day, the Koen family and GA Teels (minus David) arrived. Jonathan was my engineer for the next phase of the project. O.K., Jon, here's your challenge - Laurie wants clutch bouquets, which means we have to find a way to secure a likely bunch of stems to the bottom of this Styrofoam disc that will hold the blooms. He sorted and counted the stems (I had saved/added the ones from Isobel's grandson's wedding flowers), divided by five and devised a 3-point triangle of floral picks to anchor the stems. And it worked. Joe helped. There they were groom and groomsman (cousins) poking, wiring, glue gunning like mad-scientist florists. A priceless memory and invaluable assistance.

I got up the morning of the tea and did the last item, the bride's bouquet. Saved it 'til last and it turned out best...that was the plan. The folding table was then cleared for sewing projects. Next day, Nines' pinned/cut the wedding gown and we were on a roll. She'd join pieces with pins, I'd sew; then she'd baste the next seam while I serged the former. Went very smoothly. The serger, borrowed from Nines' friend was much like the one Isobel gave me and it was the life-saver. We'd never have managed to hand turn all that satin and organza. Well, we probably could have, but I'm surely grateful we didn't have to. The finished dress took only three days, and the bride was delighted. Mission accomplished!

There's a point to all my rambling...believe it or not. Today I am reflecting on the great time we had working together for a great family occasion. I think about how pleasant it was to work together with Nina - doing something we both love for someone we both adore. We were working in the living room between a folding table and the dining room table which were moved together to accommodate the process. A lot of furniture was misplaced to create a convenient work space. And a lot of family was misplaced to accommodate our coming. Daughters slept on couches and floor in the living room, sons slept on couches and floor in the family room; families combined funds to rent the van Lisa (and boys) drove from IN to AL with Nina and seven kids on board; aunts/uncles and church friends provided bed/board for some of the crew; Laurie gave me her bedroom, Pami / Dianna gave Nina and little ones their bedroom; Wes worked overtime toting and fetching, doing dishes, wash, cooking (for 16-20 folks), with Donna directing and helping as she was able. A chaotic time became a sweet symphony ... somewhat syncopated rhythms, yes, but just great. And in all of this there was TIME for SHARING - worship services, Bible studies, family memories, extraordinary affection, stories of life-struggles and humor ... lots of humor and laughter.

In another era, this family would have lived on a homestead, or at least in the same community. They would have joined in work and celebration with similar milestones. We traveled across seven states by air and highway to join hands in the cause. The time-share of family traditions ... God is so good.

And Lord willing, we'll do the same in October, for the wedding.

CRUMB PUDDING

If it takes bread crumbs to make bread pudding, then a quilt made of crumb blocks can be CRUMB PUDDING. Makes sense to me! And, it’s my quilt top.

Crumb blocks are so much fun aren’t they? This top is set up with four (4”) crumb blocks per square, set with 3-inch side sashes and cornerstones (crumb blocks trimmed to 3”). It’s the classic “Scots Plaid” pattern -- very easy to accomplish. I’m quite pleased with the taupe and cocoa sash fabric Nines helped me find. Also happy to finally accomplish a quilt top with NO outside borders. I’d brag, but Nina still has an oversized (84” X 98”) top to quilt. The size is reason enough to stash it a while, though I’m glad it will wend its way out of my hopper and into hers.

I do the easy part and am truly in no hurry at all for the finale.

Spring is well on its way in WV. We’re enjoying molly moochers, the daffodils are on their way out and the redbuds are bursting on the banks of roadways. DH is right – they should call the latter purplebud – and he does.

Changing season may mean less sewing and piecing … may …I’m not making any rash promises!

GRANDMOTHER KISSES

The quilt top pictured before is now a finished quilt (on Benjamin Seth Teel's bed). I titled the "XXX" quilt "Grandmother Kisses." And, here's this quilt's story.

The first time I was back home (a year after marrying and moving off to FL), my Mom held my face in her hands and covered my cheeks with kisses. . . before she inspected her new grandson David, even. What a sweet memory!

I tried to smother my babies with kisses like hers ... and then my grandchildren (at least seven kisses to count at all). Even the older ones are admirably tolerant, but it was (I think) one of Nine's girls who named my shower of affection "Grandmother Kisses."

Get in line ... I have plenty to spare still.

MEMORIES OF GOLD

While visiting a family friend in a Hospice House this week, we had the unexpected pleasure of seeing him joined by friends and son for an impromptu bluegrass session. What a blessing!

MEMORIES OF GOLD

Virgil picked the fiddle up
To play a little tune
And one by one the timid notes
Rang out across the room –
Each note a wee bit stronger
Than the one that came before
Virgil brought the strings and bow
To harmony once more.

The wonder of the moment was
Sealed up with tender tears
Of friends and family bound in heart
Remembering all the years
That Virgil played his fiddle
With a strong and gifted hand,
Bringing gleeful smiles and laughter
To so many ‘cross the land.

Virgil picked the fiddle up
And soon forgot his pain
The music claimed his spirit,
Soul and body once again.
How precious, then, to see him play,
His frail, beloved frame
United with his fiddle
In familiar sweet refrains.

Virgil played the fiddle
All because true friends in deed
Understood, so well, the value
Of his music; saw his need
To know again the magic
That no other hour could hold
Like Virgil and his fiddle …
Making memories of gold.

[Dedicated to Virgil and to his pickin' buddies Joe, Glen and Eddie.]

PICTURES IN POETRY, VOLUME II -- highly recommended!

Hot off the press and worth twice the price!

P.J. Casebolt's PICTURES IN POETRY, VOLUME II

Mail your request with $10.00 to cover book and postage to:

PAUL J CASEBOLT
33222 CHILDRENS HOME ROAD
POMEROY OH 45769


While supplies last, Paul will include a complimentary copy of Volume I with your order for this new book. If it is convenient to do so, you might include a mailing label with your request - to save his dear (81-yr old) fingers some writing/typing.:)

BETH'S QUILT TOP

My DGD Hannah Beth and I worked together on this one. The central fabrics were a gift to me, she approved of the colors and block pattern and once the blocks were assembled decided how she wanted them laid out. I love her design - meshing and progression of colors. It may be pictured upside-down...I can't remember whether she started with dark or light rows. I found the border fabric this week, so it's all done and ready to mail to GA. Miss Beth will quilt it by hand ... after she finishes a top she is doing for her other grandmother. Sorry, Beth, it's clearly a family addiction and you got a double whammy.

We're seeing a good bit of winter rain. We had lovely snow on Thursday, but it is warmer now. Rain or snow, I'm ready to sew. Crumb blocks may be next.

IN THE SHUFFLE

It's probably a good sign when grandchildren are happy to be going home again. No matter how much they love time with grandfather and grandmother, back to known surroundings and routines is good too. But my, how quiet the barn is without them.

The shuffle for today is a final print-out on a 100+ pages of a poetry publication I'm compiling for a dear friend. This is his second book - Pictures in Poetry, Volume One was published in 1989. We'll be delivering the manuscript to its Ohio author tomorrow and I'm hoping additional corrections will be very few. What a joy it has been to convey such talent to sheets of paper! DH has been my trusty proof reader and he has enjoyed the reading as much as I have.

Once that project is truly in the chute (to the printers), perhaps I can concentrate and progress elsewhere. Even crochet and Sudoku have taken a back seat. And forty-three umpteen fun "winter" sewing jobs are awaiting. Nothing major or pressing - January ought to be good for at least one new quilt top, a flannel shirt and a jumper or two, though.

The woodshed is full, so bring on the snow and keep the sewing lights up and running.

BLESSED BEGINNINGS ... 2009

New Year’s is my favorite holiday, I think. Not the customs of day – though I like cabbage and Hoppin’ John just fine – but the sense of new beginnings.

Get up and start over with a whole new clean slate! Of course my Lord makes that possible every morning – still, the first day of a new year adds a bit of flourish; a fresh, bright awareness of the reality to the truth of it!

A time for reflection, resolution and anticipation! Reflections equal thanksgiving – there are many things in the last year that deserve remembering with gratitude. Resolutions – even the recycled ones offer hope. I can always do better. Anticipation – Providence lies ahead on those empty calendar sheets; supplied, hour by hour according to His Grace.

Will every day be sunny? Certainly not! Will all my dreams come true? Perhaps I should hope not! Will all my prayers be answered? Most surely – according to His will!

I’ve not yet seen 2009, but I’ve been here before. The threshold of faith – stepping in His footprints, holding to His Hand, bowing to His wisdom and trusting for all my tomorrows that His love will guide me safely on.

HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS

KEEP THE HOME FIRES BURNING

Keep the home fires burning,
Light a candle, cut some pine;
Keep the family traditions
That will warm your heart and mine
With the links to dear reflection
From the mirrors of the past -
All the tender recollections
Child to aged ... first to last.

Be it turkey, ham or taffy,
Apple pie or chocolate cake,
Popcorn strings or men of ginger,
Sugar plums that visions make -
Strike the chord of magic mem'ry
Play the fife and beat the drums
That resound in halls of kinship
And rekindle thoughts of home.

Home - where love is warm and gentle
Home - where happiness abounds,
Where bright blooms of faith and mercy
Spread their fragrance all around;
Where the tears and hopes and laughter
Of a lifetime tightly weave
A rich tapestry of sharing -
Ours to give and to receive.

Home fires burn in radiant beauty
In the joy that children see
Beaming from the smiles of parents,
Or in hugs on Grandpa's knee.
Home fires blaze in humble settings
For mere wealth could ne'er impart
Throughout time the Gift of Wonder
Like the dear things of the heart.

Ah yes, home is where the heart is;
So we speak, and 'tis so true.
We each hold within our being
Elements of vibrant hue;
Strength is there to draw us forward;
Lights that mark the journey home
Like a beacon shining brightly
To the shores where we belong.

Let us keep the home fires burning
Light our candle, soft and sweet,
Thoughtful of the home eternal
At the blessed Master's feet -
Where the Father waits in glory;
Where the Savior bids us come;
Where the loving, gracious Brother
Leads us to that perfect Home.

My BRAT QUILT

Yesterday's miss-measurement and re-assemblage turned out to be pretty ugly. As in beyond redemption ugly. So this morning I decided to toss those patches (into a bag....maybe John can redeem them), and use the rest of the scrap squares to whip up a smaller version. It is, after all, leftovers.

I did NOT square up/pre-trim every square. I did NOT make sure all the seams were pressed in opposite directions. I did NOT even pre-measure the borders (though I did press with a bit of spray starch for a smoother fit). Whack - sew - whack. Yep, in Nines' vernacular, I'm a brat. A 64-year old brat. But since it's a little quilt, don't expect me to own up to being a BIG brat.

UP TO SNUFF...er ... STUFF

Yes, I would think horror of horrors, if anyone thought I would commend the former (though my Grandma Brady rubbed, most of her 90+ years, and credited the practice with preserving all her natural teeth). Aren't expressions funny! Up to snuff ... now what in the world does that mean?

Today, it is STUFF. And my brain obviously isn't up to stuff either, nor was it yesterday. Just piddling here and there and getting nowhere. Pulled out a quilt top that is begging for borders before DGD Hannah takes it back home to quilt herself. Nothing else I pulled out of fabric piles seems to suit, so guess I'll wait on finishing that project. This morning I decided to play with the left overs from that top. The fabrics are nice quality, hence easy to sew. So, I took a try at the odds and ends of strips and squares. When I pieced the left overs I figured the size wrong, and squares weren't square; a spare 1/2 inch in one direction. So I whacked them in two and shuffled them up - maybe by the time I get all these orphans reassembled as half-triangles, it will look like that was my intent all along. Square squares were boring -- that's my story and I'm sticking to it.

Holidays suddenly seem more festive with news that one family of children are heading this way next week. I'll need to finish or quit with orphan assemblage by tomorrow, I suppose, but from here Monday seems soon enough to gear my brain up to stuffing the oven and cookie jars.

SNOODIES

A sweet young friend just loves it when fall weather turns cool enough for a hoody. Some of our grandchildren are quite fond of hoods, too ... though we prefer the smaller 'squeaky little star wars ewoks" variety to the dark over-sized evil emperor variety. Hoods to Snoods.

These snoods came about in a quest for "Little Women" musical costuming for Florida college spring drama. DD Laurie lets me help with costuming, time to time, and I enjoy the prospects. The snood pattern downloaded from internet was a short ponytail / bun variety and I've worked at enough modification to make it head sized. The multicolored one will go to granddaughter, not drama; but practice makes better - if not perfect.

We had a lovely one-day stay in Indiana this week. The kind that makes you want to stay and stay. But even retired folks have local obligations of loving sort. DH felt obligated to go hunting when we arrived home and 'caught' a deer in the hour of daylight left. That makes six for the season so far; which we're happy to share.

Company for lunch tomorrow may be served button buck bambi burger in taco soup; with salad and cookies. Obligingly simple hospitality to sweet folks -- a joy any season.

THE SOUND OF SILENCE

...can be a very good thing. Perhaps, it is time again for a soft whisper.

The holidays (Thanksgiving through New Years) have begun. It's hunting season for DH. There are two deer hanging under the back steps - skinning and cutting will be done today and tomorrow, I expect. Our upright freezer died, so we need to be a bit more creative about storing meat. That may mean more cold-packed jars of venison; not a bad chore if someone else cleans and cubes the meat. We have out eye out for means of shipping the meat off to descendants soon.

I thought I would get out the water colors while DH hunted, but so far, no opportunity or mood. Chose instead to play with crumbs, bind a quilt, read and crochet in leisure time. No guilt there - I'm getting very independent about spending leisure somewhat selfishly, no doubt.

We did Thanksgiving with a roast hen and dinner for two. Quite pleasant with a houseful of memories and love of fuller thanksgivings to keep us company. The hen was tough - but will make good rice soup and pot pie for us and shut-ins.

Along with the holidays can be lonely theme, an October verse is offered for consideration:

WHAT IS THAT IN THY HAND?
(Exodus 4:2)

PART I - LONELINESS:

With the passage of time, changes quickly decree
The reshaping confinement of life no more free.
Age limits our motion - heart, body and soul,
And the rigor of youth moves beyond our control.

We shift into strange corridors, no more our own
As if time has now vanquished our empire and throne.
And if by good Grace, our abode is the same
None remain who may lovingly call out our name.

The walls may be cheerful, the hall lit with care
Yet backed in the corner, we learn how to bear
Time and memory frozen in blind, empty space
Without voice of connection or comrade of face.

PART II - LIBERATION:

Take up arms, gentle pilgrims, let not loneliness stand
As a curse of confinement — we have in our hand
The simple solutions to chase gloom of night,
The power to turn desperation to light.

A phone call, a letter, a cookie, a song,
A timely reminder they’re loved all along...
And even a stranger is blessed by a smile —
With no cost to the giver, the joy spreads a mile!

“What is that in your hand?” —the meek prophet of old
Found the power of blessings more precious than gold.
So we hold in our hand means of spreading abroad
The compassion and love of our merciful God.

*****

I have long thought the scourge of the aged is loneliness...emptiness is more dreadful than poverty or pain. We recently visited a sweet 96-year old man in Clendenin. He is shut in by ill health, well tended by family that lives next door and yet alone in a house with only memories and time for company most times. We rarely take anything when we visit - lending only a short stay, a kind ear and warm smiles. (He has wonderful clarity of mind/speech so listening to him is a joy for us, really.) As I cradle his cheek in my hand before we leave, there are tears in his eyes - precious gratitude for what cost us nothing except the expenditure of a bit of the day that belonged to the Lord anyway.

Let's fill our holidays with sharing....

THANKS TO MISS SANDY..

MISS SANDY TAUGHT MISS NINA, MISS NINA TAUGHT ME...fine way to learn a thing or two.

I would not have imagined I would pick up thread crochet - at my age - but here I am crocheting to my little heart's content. Thanks to Nina's patience and easy reader patterns. The 'green thing' was chosen, not because I had any notion it would turn out so large, but because it was the only pattern in my lot labeled "easy-to-do." Having the patience to finish it was not easy, but I finally made it to the end. There is one very noticeable character flaw covered by the candle...when I give it away a candle or some similar cover-up must needs go with it. Anyway, I think a Victorian doily atop a Wondercoal stove is an amusing contrast for July. The unfinished doily lacks a nice border and since it was started with a left-over ball of ecru, I'm thinking the outer frill may be an ecru/metallic gold thread if I can find such my next trip out.

The sweet reproduction crumbs squares were also passed on to me by Miss Sandy. So, I have the first block of my next quilt (reproduction sampler) set up. She's looking at this and wondering how to embellish the muslin betweens. I'm thinking I'll leave that to the quilter (unless I get ambitious and applique small hearts). When a few other squares are done I will decide about coping fabric - right now I'm leaning toward a red print.

Before tackling this really difficult block (NOT)this morning, I warmed up with 26 4-inch crumb blocks from June's sewing scraps. My crumb blocks needed a fresh drink of color ... that's my excuse and I'm stickin' to it.

Must be July - it's hot and muggy in these West Virginia Hills.

HOP UP MY LADIES...

...THREE IN A ROW.

One of those is a laddie, I suppose. Anyway that's three quilts done done. Thanks to Nines for good quilting! The bindings and labels are done to a T(eel) and they are ready to ship to recipients. It's quite a trip to do a trio in one week. Makes me want to dig in a start another....hehehe.

Speaking of digging DH dug up this year's garlic. Good harvest. Most was left in the garden to dry a bit; he's off now to gather it up - and a wave of rain swept through about the time he reached the garden gate. He has an awful time getting his garlic dried properly - between WV summer rain and humidity. The summer rain is still preventing the first cutting of hay, much to his chagrin. But what can a man do about rain clouds...not much, I'd say.

About the 'green thing' - thread ran out about 1-1/2 rows before the finish. So, I just stuffed it into the cardboard thread cylinder and will take it off to IN, where Nines has some more of the same shade/color lot. It's pretty bad when you can't finish a first project, but that didn't stop me from starting two more. A simple collar and another doily are now in progress and I'm thinking (keeping my head straight when switching from one to another being now only a minor issue) this new hobby will be a winner. Hoo'd a thunk it? Thanks, Nines.

Besides all those boys need doilies for their hope chests, right?

GUESS WHAT???

O.K. So it's not a big stretch to guess what. But it was a fun little project.

The fun part is guessing HOW to "engineer" the thing. Don't you just love engineering? Well, yes, that is a glorified term for making some simple little hobby aid - you'll just have to indulge me.

Nines spied the fabric on Tea Wallets (below), but alas, those were all given away before she got to choose hers. This is a consolation prize for the prairie girl who has taken to crocheting. I hope it's not TOO big for her tiny new purse; and will keep her crochet necessities from drifting too far afield :)