ALMOST 2O2O

I like the sound of 2020.  Kind of neat.  Easy to remember.  New decade too. 

Bitsy sat on the arm of my chair this morning while I read Bible and devotional and prayed my day right.  She loves for me to read it to her.   I declare that is so--or maybe she just loves me and the heat of the floor lamp?   Whatever, I will accept it.  That is what you do with kitties.  She is full of breakfast of cat fo0d and warm with heat and love.  What more can she want or need?   When I think about it-that covers my needs and wants too. Not the cat food for me.  How about egg-in-hole.  Have you ever had your egg cooked in a hole of toast?  Good, good, good. 

I made that black bean soup yesterday.  Had a bowl for supper.  Turned out pretty good.  Will share some with a friend.  You too-if you like it.

Betty Boop

MONDAY

Sunday was good.  I enjoyed Church.  We had a Service of Lessons and Carols.  Scripture was read and we sang a carol to  match it. I  thought it was very good and I received a blessing from it.  P. and S. picked up lunch from NUKE'S. It was very good.  Amy and M. G. joined us on my famous Bubble and we all enjoyed talking and pursuing a lot of subjects.  It is fun to me to listen.  Their world of work and play is so different from mine and I am brought up on many subjects.  Ryan had a head ace and did not feel well.  We missed him.  My Bubble is getting popular.  I am happy to share it with my family. 

Betty Boop

RAIN FOR TODAY

Some use rain and other conditions to stay home from Church.  Now I know all the reasons people have.
they are welcome to their thinking, but for me, I need to go.  Hope I get to go today. 
I read my Bible and devotionals and pray most any time of the day.  When the urge  presents itself.  I live this way and guess I always will.  Here I go preaching again. 

Jan came yesterday.  She brought me a few groceries.  I seem to need a lot for one.  She brought me "happies" from her and Amy.  Lovely lotion from Amy (I need a lot.)  From her, goat milk soap.  I love both presents.  So thoughtful and needed.  I had my favorite hot dog in the Cyber for lunch, that we shared.  Surprised!  My blood sugar was normal that night.  I can never figure it out.  This morning it was below what the Dr.  wants it. You go figure it. I had my Navy bean soup for supper.  Jan brought me the makings of Black Bean soup.  I look forward to making up a recipe for it next week.   Soup time even if the weather says not.  Good anytime.

Betty Boop

LAZY

Yes, that is what it is.  I am just lazy.  Don't want to do anything.  My "get up and go"  has "got up and went."  And with out me.  Got to start off the new year better than that or I will be left behind.   How do I do this? Did it start with letting my hair go-grey?  Maybe I should color it again.  But then I am too lazy to consider that too. 

My "boys"  gave me a new CD for Christmas.  It is Tony Bennett & Lady Gaga, called CHEEK TO CHEEK.  It is so nice. Songs I know.  An unlikely couple, but surprisingly good.  Their voices blend so well and you can hear that they are  enjoying it.   I have played it several times.  Bitsy and I will enjoy it many more times I am sure.   Yes, she likes music too.   When I leave my apartment, I always put music on for her.

Betty Boop

TREES

While sitting in the Bubble this morning, drinking a second cup, I looked at the trees around the Lake.  The Cyprus trees are almost bare.  Like naked ladies shivering in the cold or is it  from embarrassment?   I think they are beautiful all stripped and sleeping till Spring when new needles will come again.  There is a Cyprus Tree forest on the Natchez Trace.  It is wondrous to see.  All those big trees with their roots in water.  They seem to be thriving around the Lake here.  Someone had the insight to plant
them as well as Willow trees.  I also saw  resident Egret, as white as snow.  And a blue heron. Two mallard ducks and some more smaller ducks.  It is their kind of weather for sure.  More rain on the way for  the weekend.  I am resting and planning when to take the decorations down.  What a job!!  Why did I think I had to put it all out?  Because I love all of my old stuff.  Do you?  Of course it just grows with the years, when you keep it all. 

Betty Boop

CHRISTMAS DAY

Another Christmas.  I have seen a lot of them.  Everyone different, yet the same.  New and old traditions. Thank you Lord for them all.  We had 13 around the table. No children that made it a little subdued, yet nice.  My seat was in the middle of the table.   You would think that is the best seat.  I picked it.  But to try to hear all  around you is a little difficult at times.  That is due to these hearing aids that tend to pick up all around you at once.  Oh well I could enjoy it anyway.  My that turkey and dressing was good.  I will have a rerun for lunch.  I was pleasantly surprised that my blood sugar reading was only 115, even with a little dessert.  That felt good.    Home felt good and restful,  with new memories to sort and store for later.  Brand new member to celebrate was just frosting on the cake !!!!

Betty Boop

MERRY CHRISTMAS

CHRISTMAS GIFT!!!  Old tradition in our family.  Don't believe it is original, but we used to have fun seeing who could say it first to each other.  Of course the answer was, "Give it to me."  followed by laughs.  Ahh tradition.  How sweet the memories.  We enjoyed the Brown side of my family last night.  That fried chicken was heavenly.  Thanks to mamma for that one. I have heard others tell of their family tradition for the food at the Christmas Eve dinner.  Some strange options.  Wonder how that got started?  Catching up with my family was good.   May that tradition continue.

Big dinner at daughter's home with the other side for today. Traditional  turkey and dressing.  We just can't get enough of cornbread dressing.  Southern style with gravy.  And why do we have cranberry sauce so seldom?  Especially when it now comes in cans.?  Oh! did you not know?  We used to make it from scratch. Some still do.   What a job!!  Just like a lot of foods now, it is so much less trouble.  I am for that.  But sometime it is good to remember.  You have to be my age to remember most changes.  Hooray for change or is it for memories?

Betty Boop,  Was Santa good to you??

MERRY CHRISTMAS EVE

Annual " Eve" dinner tonight.  Started by my Mother after  Jack I had children, so we could be at our own home for Christmas day.  She always said it was her Christmas.  As some know she prepared all the food.  Always fried chicken.  We have that tradition till this day.  Jack's family join in as always.  I hear we are having 20 at S. &P's welcoming home.   Such a nice house for a crowd. THANK YOU!!  I used to fry chicken, but let Kroger do it now.  There will be great food from everyone.  Much catching up and laughter as we tell the old old story of Kathy and her urging  her parents to hurry and go home because the weather man on TV showed Santa approaching Jackson in his sleigh.  She will never live that  down.  Memories--old and new.  I thrive on them.

Betty Boop

BLUE FOR BOY

Blue for boy and we have been waiting for you little one.  Who will he look like?  What is his name?  Take your time, which is what you are doing, we can wait.  The weekend so far has been hard.  Just knowing you are on your way.  I think today is the day.

The big open house party here was very interesting.  Three apartments and one house decorated and welcomed us all to come look and see.  My, I found out how  the other half lives!! I thought I had the best, but I found out I did not.  The apartments were beautiful.  Plenty food and decorations to see.  So nice.  But you know what? When I came home, I decided that I still do  have the best.!! Thanks to all who open their homes for us to enjoy.  I did enjoy!!!  The next text I hope to tell you about my 10th great-grandson.

Betty Boop

SUNSHINE

Good to see sunshine.  Cold, but warming later with the sun shinning.  These "goodies" that I am getting at the door are killing me.  I had sausage balls for breakfast from one friend.  They were perfect with a scrambled egg. Even had Bitsy sniffing as they warmed up.  I guess she will never know what they taste like.  I never give her people food.  She wont eat anything that falls to the floor either.  And that is good. 

We had a pretty heavy frost.  Almost looks like snow.  That is close enough for me. Altho snow in the South is pretty, it can cause havoc with us.  Not being used to it and being unprepared, it can get hard to handle.  But it would be exciting.  Just a little.

Betty Boop 

SUNNY,COLD,SUNRISE

Better to get out today than yesterday.  Dr. Sotolongo   my foot Dr, is calling to trim my toe nails. I can't do it anymore for myself. So I just enjoy it.  So Be It!!  Enough of that.

I see a small covey of ducks each morning.  They swim in a group as if they a are a big family.   Can't tell what kind they are.  They are small compared to the usual Mallards I see.  I saw a man fishing on the dam yesterday.  I think he heard they bite in bad weather.  He did not stay long.       Yesterday we sang traditional Christmas carols in the Activity room.  Small crowd.  Many reasons I guess.  We started celebrating so early and many have just lost the excitement we need. My observation.  Could be wrong. 

Later Betty Boop

TERRIBLE STORMS

We were spared here in Madison, as far as I know.  Many over Mississippi and Louisiana   were affected.  So sorry for all who are having to clean up today.  Worse here at Christmas time.  The temp is not real low, but it feels cold with all the clouds. Maybe the sun will peep out soon.  Here at SCV the beat goes on.  My table outside my door has been full of surprises.  Fun for us all. The Choir is singing Christmas carols today with everybody joining in.  We will sing all the favorites. Hope everyone will be happy. 


Betty Boop

STORMS PREDICTED

Good day to stay inside if you can.  Stormy weather on the way, so they say.  Yesterday at Church, our Choir sang so beautifully.  We had the piano & organ playing.  My what a joyful noise.  The whole service was outstanding.   Very moving.  Little happy gifts keep appearing at my door.  My, I have many thoughtful friends. 

Amy and I had lunch at one of our favorite places.  PANERA BREADS.  The have such good soup.  I seem to be into soups lately.  Homemade and not so homemade.  All good.  I am looking forward to my side of the family and Christmas.  Bless Paul & Sophie for having such a crowd to their home for Christmas Eve.  My Mother's tradition lives on.  We still marvel at how she did all she did.  She made everyone's favorite.  Fried chicken was the centerpiece.  It still is!!  I bring it, but Kroger cooks it now.  In her day, she would have been offended to buy it already cooked.   I am not bothered by that at all.

Betty Boop

BEAUTIFUL DAY

Beautiful day with daughters.  They picked me and the rollator up and headed for the big beautiful city of Jackson.  My birthplace.  A longtime ago.  Never lived anywhere else till Madison and SCV.   My it has changed.  It is still growing.  It feels like a big city with all the newest tall building. We headed to Mississippi Museum of Art.  Was disappointed  at the few Christmas decorations we expected to see.  But the tour was good.  I saw many artist I knew represented.  Think I will take my one picture I painted of the Amish men, and present it to hang among some of the greats.  The gift shop is always interesting to look at but not to buy.  We went to the new and lovely hotel-The Westin, for lunch.. So good and nice.  It took me back to days when we went on conventions in the big cities.  Truman and I really lived it up.  County bumpkins at first, but we learned a lot. I digress.  The Westin had a beautiful display of Christmas trees in their lobby.  Each decorated by different businesses in Jackson.  They were so unique and beautiful.   We then took a tour of the Belhaven area.  Much is going on  there.  New business and many renovations of old houses. It really felt alive.  I have heard so much negative reports about the down town area.  Good to know that seeing is believing. I live in a small world of what I see on TV and  newspapers.  So seeing so much positive was really refreshing.  I was tired--but happy for the adventure, as we say.

BettyBoop

GO GREY ?

Well, the hair cut did improve my attitude, but boy o boy the grey is showing up.  When I decided to stop putting color on my hair, I did not really know what to expect. Would I like it? Would it be worth not having the hassle of doing it? I am still not sure after the short cut I got yesterday. So much grey shows up till I look like a different person.  Who is that old grey mare looking back at me from the mirror?  I am sure I have turned heads in the hall.  "Is she a new resident?", I am sure they are saying.  Oh well, at least they noticed.  I will try it for a while.  Who knows, maybe I will decide to go back to the little dark haired cutie.

Jan is coming today and maybe we will just "break out."  Go someplace  else.

Betty Boop
P.S.  Back to a plain white cup with a navy blue band around it for coffee.  Just shaking it up.

CUP-O-DAY

My coffee cup has a ring of holly and poinsettias around it.  Very festive.  The weather is dismal and dark.  Hope for sun later.  Everyone here is in the Christmas mood.  With decorations galore.  Many musical programs and changing of little happies and cards.  I have done my part.  Still mixed feelings.  Happy days of buying Sant Claus for the girls is just a memory now.  Days of preparing are done.  I always had a sad side to Christmas.  I think that is not unusual to many.  I must get over it.  And I will.  I miss my Mother, Daddy, brother and most of all my husband.  Hurry up, sun, come out and help me feel your warmth.

Betty Boop
P.S. I am getting a haircut today.   That should do it!!

SUNNY & COLD

Winter for sure.  31 degrees is cold to the South.  Will warm up with this beautiful sun   beaming in the balcony doors.  Full of sunshine and Bitsy.  She uses a lot of her time finding the warm spot. 

I am starting a new med to lower my blood sugar.   I have been fighting it for years and not successfully enough.  It is a new drug (kind of), You may have seen the happy guy dancing-in his office, on the street, in his garden cutting grass, walking his dog, everywhere happy and feeling good.  I hope I get to dance down the hall out here because I feel that good.  What would happen if I did that ?  They would quietly put me away.  It is called Jardance.  I read the folder that came with it  As with all drugs there are many side affects possible.  I am pretty tough and maybe I will tolerate it.  Hope so.  A little  hard on the pocket book, but insurance helps a lot.  Wish me luck.   Sure takes a lot for this old body to keep going.  But I am again thankful for good Dr's good meds and patience.

Betty Boop

RED LETTER DAY

I call it a red letter day because it was.  Before residents, friends. and my family I sat on the front row of the Choir and sang my heart out.  We did a good job, I thought.  Many said we did.  We wanted to send Christmas cheer and praise the season.  Some of the songs had such wonderful messages.  I felt the spirit as I tried to express it in with my choir friends and hope everyone felt it too.  O. k.  enough of bragging.  Except to M. G. for the beautiful white roses tinged in pink.  As pretty as I have ever seen.  Just like the pretty girl who brought them.  Thank you so much.  I love all my family and I am truly blessed.

Betty Boop

BIG DAY

We sing for you today. I hope my Choir does well today.  My voice is not what it used to be.  Not that it was ever that great, but used to be much better. The aging process is interesting to say the least.  It is the subject of most conversations around here.  It seems almost like a contest sometime--to see who has the most ailments. I am right up there with the winners.  Year 92 brings many chances to be #1,  Almost 93.  In January I will reach that number.  People say, "Oh  you don't look it!"  Flattering, but not very comforting. Many of the first people I met here are gone or moved on down the scale of care. I am still thankful I can live where I do and do as much on my own.  I could not do as much without my faithful family. 

O. K. my Christmas "cup-of-the-day" is another jolly Santa.  Well several of them.  The are happily dancing around the cup all dressed in red, green, or blue. Snow flakes are falling.  That makes them happy.  It is tall and such a pretty shape.  Makes me happy too.

Betty Boop

SUNDAY

The Church was so beautiful Sunday. Poinsettias were as pretty as any I have seen.  Given in honor or memory of someone.  Truman was my choice from his family. The music was great and the Choir was outstanding. Good experience. M.G. Ryan Amy, and I had lunch on the Bubble again.  They brought Greek this time.  So good.  One of my favorite. Of course Bitsy got her shot.  M. G. is so faithful to give it to her each week.  And she is good at giving it.  She understands Bitsy.

Yesterday my coffee cup had a jolly Santa and today it said Ho Ho Ho. What kind shall I have tomorrow? Read and know.

Betty (just too jolly)  Boop

CHICKEN & DUMPLINGS

 Have you ever had a craving for a certain food?  I did Saturday.  Can't always eat the original way of cooing, so I get creative and try to duplicate.  Chicken cooked and taken off the bone is something you can keep in freezer to do a lot of things.  Chicken salad, whole wheat spaghetti, just chicken sandwich, the list goes on.  I wanted dumplings !!  I made them with whole wheat tortillas.  I have done them before.  Just cut them in strips and dust with flour (important) and cook  in boiling broth you boiled  the chicken in.  I put onion and mixed spices with chicken to make a tasty broth.  Plenty to freeze for next time.  Now it was very good and I had a small feast with English peas and fruit for dessert.  Craving satisfied.!!!

Betty Boop

DEAR FRIENDS

I am blessed with not only the best family in the world, but dear friends.  I got a call last evening about 7 (good thing I had not decided to dress for bed) from a sweet lady who has been shut in for a while from a fall here.  She still lives in independent  living. Thanks to a very dedicated only daughter here in Madison, she gets plenty attention. Reesie and I were good friends when we did the exercise class early on.  She always was pleasant and laughter was her thing. So we just hit it off.  I have been amiss in visiting her since she has been shut in.  Her daughter called and said could  they come visit.  I was so surprised and glad.  Reesie was feeling better and wanted to get out and see people.  They came and Bitsy was a perfect hostess.  They loved her.  We had such a nice visit.  She said she loved the little happy I left for her and she still had  many of them from the past I made.  So the bottom line is BLOOM WHERE YOU ARE.  I am limited to all the things I do now but I have found small things I can still do.  Amy reminds me of the way I used to do things.  I usually ended up after Christmas sick with a cold and had to go to the Dr.  In those days, he would give me a shot--now it is different.  Everything is.  Time marches on.  So Be It!!

Betty Boop

MR. Mc B's Since 1982 (1983) ?

Jan took me to get my skin checked out.  He froze a few spots and declared me O. K. Good, Good,Good;   as Truman used to say.  Dr. Price is good and thorough in explaining everything.   Since I have not tried to get Pansies yet we decided to go to Moore's to buy a few.  Surprise, we should have known it was late to buy them,  they were closed!!  Not to be outdone, and we were in the neighborhood of the new Calloways  at Gluckstat.  My that place is booming.  We bought enough for my big blue pot on the balcony.  They are waiting to be planted.  Jan had been telling me about this quaint and rustic little gem of a restaurant.  Mr. McB's on Lake Harbor. It has been there a while and I have noticed it . But Arby's is close and I always like it too.  Picadilly--back off.  This place has you beat for veggies.  Oh and the chicken fried steak was to die for.  My it was good!!.  By then, I needed a nap.  Jan dropped me off and Bitsy and I fell in bed.

Oh, I found an answer to the "tear the tree down"  caper.  Amy said sprint her with water .  And I did.  Only took one time.  I am holding my  breath it will work.  She is a sharp cat, so I do not know what to expect.
Betty Boop 

DERMATOLOGY

They call it the Skin Care Clinic now.  And that is what it is.  Anyway, Jan and I are going this morning. I have not been in 5 years.  Time got away with me and I should have gone long ago.  Hope everything checks out o. k. Jan and T. have  been on a week trip to see both kids and grands.  She came  right back and jumped right in to taking care of her old Mom.  My that old girl is needy. Wish me luck.

Another Christmas cup for coffee.  This one has a decorated tree and is just the right size. I know it is part of someone's china, just forgot  who gave it to me.  It was filled with peppermint  sticks I bet.  (Little secret)  I do not like peppermint very much and end up discarding it after Christmas.   I know it is a part of Christmas, so I keep it around till after.  Give me chocolate please and Snickers at that.  All the "happies) are delivered and hope they are making someone happy.

Betty Boop

MOVING ALONG

What would I do without my Blog to talk to?  I really enjoy it for my own sake.  Like saying "good morning." Start the day with a little fun and nonsense.  Maybe a complaint or two.  That's life.  I got my small collection of Christmas mugs down from the shelf. (very carefully), I try not to take chances on falling.  I have these from many places.  People have given them to me mostly.  At Christmas with treats for a gift.  That will start soon around here.  It is sweet to have thoughtful friends who express themselves with small gifts.  Mine are half way delivered.  I must get it done soon.  

I will confess a funny.  I walked from the Livingroom to the kitchen through a tile floor.  The sun was so bright on it this morning.  It was early and I guess I was not seeing well yet.  A big spot of yellow was on the floor.  I sighed as I tried to figure it out.  Out came the paper towel and cleaner.  I wiped and wiped, only to bring up an empty towel.  Guess what--it was pure sunshine reflecting from the mirror on the wall.  I felt stupid and relieved to know what it was.
My coffee is good from a cup circled with holly berries and green leaves.
ROYAL NORFOLK-Someone cleaned their china closet!!!

Betty (on the job) Boop

FOSTY

Sun looks good, but cold.  The frost nipped the grass in front of me.  Like a mini snow.  We are not ready for the Choir Concert!! Everyone seems to be unsure.  I think we have not had enough practice.  New lady playing the piano.  Lady next to me said not to worry, we always come through and remember what Shirley taught us.  So be it.  I will try.

My next big thing is delivery of the rest of my happies.  So far they have been well received.  But I have a lot more to do.  Little at a time will get it done.  If I could just get better control of my blood sugar I would not feel so shaky and could walk better, I could do more.  Christmas is a while away, I will get it done.  Betsy is giving trouble with my tree.  I have it covered will a  large poster board so she can't see it.  Bad girl.  If  she chews the greenery it may make her sick.  I told her but she still wants to chew.  Still working on her!!!  
Do you watch THE GOOD DOCTOR on tv?  It ended for the season.  Kind of a cliff hanger, yet not quite.  Will be back in January, I was glad to hear.  I like it.

Betty Boop 

MONDAY -little nippy

Well now, it is  looking like Christmas.  Yesterday after church, M.G. & Ryan and Amy and I ate lunch in my Bubble.  They brought Fire House subs.  Never had them before.  Very good.  I left the "fire" out of mine.  It is fun to eat out there.  Afterwards we put up the tree Amy brought for me and decorated it with my old favorites.  So far I have only had to correct Bitsy two times to not chew on the fake branches.  She is a little bit interested but it is fake and she decided no need to chew. (I hope.)  She does not play like a kitten anymore anyway.   Maybe she will be good.  She is smart but still a cat. 
I delivered a few "happies" yesterday.  I am going slow.  It is a big job. 

Hey, the sun is out and it will warm up.  Today is our last practice for our Christmas program.  Looking forward to it.  The music was good at Church yesterday.  Our Choir is small, but well trained by our very dedicated leader. 

Betty Boop

HO HO HO !!!

It is getting to look a lot like Christmas.  Not the weather.  We sat outside on P & S's after lunch yesterday.  They have such a nice back  back yard and outside living room(I call it.)  They brought the cat out on a leash and she enjoyed it too. Dinner was great.  We had all the favorites they remembered.  Green beans prepared 3 ways to satisfy all.  M. G.'s lamb was especially good. 
I received pictures from Jan of the Merkosky's putting up their Christmas tree.  My my they are making memories and living them today.  How wonderful. 

I had a rare treat.  I sat on the Balcony wrapped in winter robe and high sleep socks.  I have missed it lately because it has been too cold or rainy.  I feel a peace out there and enjoy the ducks and geese and the clouds. Our whole building outside is beautiful as it gets dark and the lights come on.  Beautiful sight and I am  glad so many enjoy putting all the decorations up.  My table is done as is my door.  I guess I will put the sad little fake tree up.  Only to see my treasured old ornaments.  I say old in a good way, because they are memories I love. 
SWEETLY BE  --  BETTY BOOP

DAY AFTER

May be the day after, so the calendar says, but the best is yet to come.  Lunch at the Wolf's welcoming home.  Always a treat.  M.G. informed me she is making Cornish hen for our day after celebration.  Wow!!  How elegant can we get?  I have to confess, although I am looking forward to that delicate little hen, I always feel sorry for them.  They are so small and cute.!! Forget that and just enjoy it all.  She is so thoughtful to plan such a treat. 

Yesterday was good in the dinning room.  The dressing actually tasted like mine.  I told the Chef and that pleased him.  However, my downfall was the pecan pie.  I know better than to push the sugar level.  I felt deprived when others were enjoying.  Oh it was just plain good!!  And did I pay for it? Yes--big time.  I had trouble getting the sugar down.  Still a little high this morning.  I usually say-never again, but I am weak. On a high note.  I cleaned out  the Thanksgiving décor and started my Christmas ones.  I have an impressive tier table outside my door, just full of my Angel collection.  They look so sweet and I hope people passing enjoy them.  Of course the manger figure  came out to stir up memories.  Amy made them when she was in College.  By the way--how about them MSU dogs at the egg bowl? 

Betty "chatty" Boop
P.S.  The tier table with it's Duncan  Phyfe legs  that is outside my door was part of the first furniture Truman and I bought.  Everyone had to have Duncan Phyfe!!!

GOBBLE, GOBBLE

Many things to be thankful for.  Can't begin to name them all.  Every day brings so many blessings.  I try and can't remember Thanksgiving as a child.   How sad because with the Mother I had, I am sure she made it special.  She was such a good cook and loved cooking for family.  I do remember when my children were small and they helped decorate everything in sight.  Napkins and plates were colored and things they made in school were used.  Excitement of the times we had Truman's parents and mine to dinner.  Later when we had TV, the parade and looking for St. Nick to ride in and wave.  I know my memories are scattered.  Today I eat at St. Catherine's.  But tomorrow we , the ones in town will be at Sophie and Paul's  house for a second dinner. Whatever the make up of people,  we will have a good time.  The thing is-just get with some family and friends and be thankful. 

Betty Boop
P. S. How much do you really like turkey? 

EARLY BIRD

Just call me "early bird".  Wonder where that phrase came from.? Mr. Google would know.  Maybe I will bother to look it up later.  I understand what it means.  Someone has to be early and first to sing.  It seems I have been trying for the title lately.  5:30 sometime ad I try to stay in bed till 6.  That gets hard to do. Some may find it hard to eat breakfast that early, but there I am eating scrambled egg, grits, whole wheat toast, O. J. and coffee by 6:30.  I like breakfast food. Could eat it at lunch and dinner. 

My we are anxious for Christmas.  The committee is like a bee hive.  I remember working on that one several years.  Let someone younger and full of energy do it now.  Just enjoy the Court Yard come alive as well as the lights outside.  Many have put up wreathes at their doors.  My, lets do Thanksgiving first.  I see why time seems to fly by-we are so anxious to get it done before it is too late.  Ha!!  My "happies" are ready and I am sitting on ready to deliver them on the first of December. I am working on the list.  Checking it twice.  It is a big thing for me.

Betty Boop

LOOKS LIKR RAIN

I am so disappointed in DANCING WITH THE STARS.  I hope it wont be coming back next season.  Completely rigged!!  Oh well. Of course it is.  Many think as I do, so it has lost it's appeal for me.  Still like THE GOOD DR. It is coming to a close next week.  Some of the shows are ending mid season and then pick up next season. Choir practice is at 2 today.  Getting ready for Christmas Concert.  Guess I have to close for now.  Nothing else is going on.

Betty Boop  

SUNRISE

If you were up at sunrise this morning you may have seen the sun rise.  I did and I was impressed (as always.) at the beauty of it all.  he pinks are so pretty as the sun turns the dark blue into a color no artist can imagine.  I am glad to see it each morning.  You have to get up early and be ready to look. 

Sunday was long.  Amy dropped me off after Church.  We had been together a lot that week and nobody else was coming for lunch, so she went home and I decided not to face the Sunday crowd in dinning room and had a very good TV dinner with a fruit salad I made.  Was pretty good for a change.  Bitsy was surprised at the change of events.  She is so into routine. I really give her a lot more credit than she is capable of.

I keep wanting to write a poem, but just can't do it.  Maybe desire to write is the first step.  We will see. 

Betty Boop

COLDAND SUNNY

I  know you like my weather report each morning I know you can look for yourself, it is just a good morning greeting.  Jan and Mr. T. came yesterday for lunch and Jan helped me with some mundane matters.  Gosh!  she is good.  I had a cheese, tomato, and bacon sandwich on whole wheat toast.   Heavy on the bacon.  So much bacon I took half of it out and home for breakfast this morning.  I had a soft boiled egg and a whole wheat waffle (sugar free syrup.)  The Cyber is generous  with that bacon.  But warmed in the oven it is good the next day.  Rainy cool day put me into the soup mood.  I made Navy Bean & Ham soup.  A big pot is plenty to share and put some in the freezer.  I also had some for supper.  So that was my day.  Pretty good  one.  Maybe today will be good too.  "This is the day the Lord has made, let us rejoice and be glad in it."  Off to Church with Amy.

Betty Boop

A DAY TO REMEMBER

On November 23, 1946 we were married in my parents living room, before family and friends. On North Jefferson Street.  I have a lot of memories of that day and how we got to it. You have heard most of them  so I wont share much.  It was a wonderful marriage.  Taken serious yet we did not know much either.  We learned a lot over those years about each other.  It takes a life time.  I really would not change a thing.  We both loved each other and that love grew as we lived  it.  I am very proud of us both. We were lucky that it worked like it did.  Could not ask for more.  Memories are so good to have.  I hope I keep mine and I hope you all make beautiful ones.

Betty Boop

LOVE A RAINY DAY?

If you do love a rainy day, you are happy.  Woke at 6 and started my day.  I have been looking for an order from Amazon that went a stray.  They replaced it and it arrived.  Barbara came to clean. Happy Bitsy.  I had a small breakfast early and went to the Cyber for the rest, while my apartment was being cleaned.  Met a resident coming in from the Court Yard where he had assembled his workers (residents) to start decorating for Christmas.  It had started to rain.  So his day was lost.  Maybe tomorrow he said.  We really do depend on volunteers to do so much.  I did my share of that in the past.  It helped me through my grief process a lot.  Bitsy is looking over my shoulder while standing on a close table.  She said "good morning."  Rain seems to upset her routine and she is looking for a place to hide.  She is quite a ballerina  in  jumping and climbing in spite of her little round "tummy."  Now she is sitting on my desk right beside me.  I will use her for an excuse for errors.  OOOps, she left.  Still looking for a hiding place. 

Betty Boop

UP & DOWN

How about this weather.  People on the weather team say "It's just Mississippi."  Could be so, but I kind of like it.  Gives me something to write  about.  People here keep asking me for a new poem.  I guess I am in a dry spell again.  One lady compared me to John Grissom ==  he is writing again she said.  I had not cared for his last novels.  But to put me in the same sentence as John Grissom was flattering.  It should have made me run up and grab the long yellow legal pad and start writing.  But it didn't.  So that proves that I do not belong in the writers group.  Oh well.  Maybe I will get some motivation soon.  I have been dealing with other issues that seem to have zapped my creativity. 

Beautiful through the window.  Betsy really enjoys the sunshine.  Her little world is small and she runs to the door every time the door opens, to see who is there.  She loves people.  I tell her all my troubles and joys and she just smiles and blinks her pretty gold eyes.  I think she understands. 

Betty Boop

BEAUTIFUL DAY IN THE NEIGHBORHOOD

Yes what a beautiful day.  I just sat on the Balcony and had a diet coke.  Later I will go down to lunch in dinning room.  I picked up chili from the Cyber for supper tonight.  They make good chili and I like to pick up a cup now and then.

The Cyprus trees are turning a pretty shade of rust.  There are about a dozen of them around the Lake.  Someone planned well.  They do their best around water.  There are Willow trees too.  All for today-so far.

Betty Boop

GONE ARE THE GREEN FIELDS

Sitting in the Bubble, I thought of that song.  Our meadow is not green anymore.  But the Canada Geese think it is great.  I saw a large gaggle of them feeding.  I am sure they had a swim first because they were sunning and then got up all together to graze.  Beautiful sight if you don't get in there way.  They can be mean and aggressive. I also saw swimming two kinds of ducks.  Some are new, just wintering here I guess.  I watered my plants there.  They are also wintering (in the Bubble.)  Like a greenhouse out there.  Very nice.

Amy came yesterday and almost finished the trees.  Also brought bags for gifting.  I will enjoy bagging them and organizing the list of the people I want to give them to. I am also so pleased with my gifts this year.  No more-next year!! I will not plan to make anything.  It is getting too hard for my hands and I end up letting Amy & Jan do most of the work.  That was not my intention-I always wanted it to be my gift, but my girls have gotten pleasure the last couple of years to help.  Thanks for  girls.  Mine are the best.

Betty Boop

MONDAY,MONDAY

Another new week.  Comes around pretty fast.  Aren't we lucky?  Church was good yesterday.  I was surprised to hear the Choir sing one we sing at our choir here at SCV.  I had never heard it before we sang it here.  Don't you wish I could remember the title? O well.

We had lunch at CHAR's yesterday.  It is doing a good business.  Very thoughtful Sophie girl made a reservation for us, so we walked right in and sat right down, while a line was waiting.  Nice.  Paul met us at the door and helped me in.  Nice again.  Music and food  was good and so was the company.  I am so spoiled.  (and I enjoy it.)

Have a good week.
Betty Boop

SUNDAY

I enjoyed Saturday with Jan.  We took care of a lot of things.  She brought for my  approval  2 flannel shirts from Old Navy.  Half price sale.  I liked them both.  Should feel good .  Price was right. I do like a bargain.  We had a few odds and ends to attend to.  Took off for lunch.  I like to go out and she takes me on a long way around to see what is new.  We ate at Ya Ya's.  Ever been there?  You must try it.  It is  a family owned Greek,  On 51.  It was a beautiful day in  more ways than one.

Betty " Going to Church" Boop

SATURDAY

Freezing this morning. Bitsy and I stand at the glass sliding door and gaze out.  I crack the door for her to take in the cold air.  Her little nose goes to work to smell the fresh air.  I close it quickly because the wind is going right through me.  She looks disappointed.  Just wonder what she smells that keeps that little nose working so fast? This little creature has cost me a small fortune in care, but  she is such a friend and confidant. She listens  to all my conversations.  We give to each other.  Guess she earns her "keep."

Closet sale was a great success. Last count we made over 7 thousand and they were still counting.  Great.!!  Wish I  could have helped more.  I only spent 25 cents.  Bought Bitsy a feeding dish.  Really a little saucer so I have two.  One clean and one in use.  Ho Ho Ho. 

Betty Boop

DAUGHTERS

Daughters  are blessings.  I have three.  They do so much for me.  Physically and emotionally.  Amy came yesterday and we worked on my Christmas "happies." I get myself into a corner and need help each year.  Maybe I will make this year the last.  I really am not up to doing it.  But to be together and work is priceless.  Jan helped last year along with Amy.  We may need her again.  I am so pleased with this year's gifts. I am limited now to how much I shop.  My family has gotten to big and it is impossible to  do what I used to do.  SO BE IT,  I always say.  Time does not stop and things do change.

Big closet sale downstairs.  We have it mainly for benefit of our employees.  We cannot "tip" so this is like a Christmas bonus to them and I am so glad to do it.  Plus everyone loves to look and buy each others "stuff. Just peeking in yesterday as they were setting up. it looked like a lot to buy.  Hope to get down and look.

Betty Boop

BACK

Finally, at 6:30 last evening the TV is back.  I was so glad that I did not face another night without it.  How self centered can I be? Others all over the world are suffering for many things and me upset about a TV night.  Anyway, it is back on and they did not install the update.  They said in about 2 weeks they would come back and do it.  I guess they still have a way to go before they know what to do next.  I do not pretend to understand.  SO BE IT. 

Let's talk about the weather instead.  Or do we want to do that either?   It is cold.  Really cold for this time of year for the South.  I will still take our weather over any other.  I am just glad to stand by Bitsy and stare out at the beauty around me and enjoy  being inside.  I feel I have earned the right to just stay put. 

Choir practice went well.  I can't believe Christmas is coming so fast.  I do love the beautiful music of Christmas.   We are doing some hard new ones, but we are getting there. When the time comes to perform, it will come together.  It always does.

Betty Boop
P.S.  This hot coffee is so good this morning.  I had a hot chocolate yesterday afternoon-another pleasure.

WINTER TIME

Cold and windy.  My mornings on the Balcony are few and far between. I am looking for snow and hoping I could see a few flakes.  It is possible.  C-SPIRE is driving us crazy.  In an effort to update our service they have caused a lot of trouble.  Computer works but not the TV.  I really missed it last night when DANCING WITH THE STARS was getting good.  Also THE GOOD DOCTOR is a favorite.  I had books to read but got tired of reading.  Went to bed before 9:30.  Up at 5:30.  This is getting crazy.  Hope to get it straight today.  Don't know what the problem is, but I hope they figure it out today.. 
History Club today and Mr. T. will come.  Good day ahead. 

Betty Boop

BETTER TODAY

Missed out on Sunday.  Little on the sick side.  Better today.  I get a flu shot today.  Finally  they brought SCV the shots.  I plan to be first in line at 9 this morning.  C-SPIRE is doing up dates.  What a job.  They have to go in every apartment to do it.  My time is this morning between 9 and 11.  Sounds like old days when we had to stay home for a delivery or to fix something.  They will come in if you are not here.  I put Bitsy in my bedroom with her facilities.  Water and all and told her I would be back.  She seems to know the words "be back." 

Expecting some real cold tonight.  They really should not mention the snow word in the forecast.  That is just silly-or is it? 

Betty Boop
VETRANS  DAY

SLOW DAY

If you call doing laundry exciting, I had an exciting morning.  With Jan out of pocket on Saturday, I was lost.  I picked up lunch from Cyber.  I ate in my Bubble.  A new resident has brought her outside plants to spend the winter in the Bubble.  It looks very nice to have new plants to look at.  I have 3 there and they look happy.   My Christmas cactus is blooming a little early.  My "boys" gave it to me years ago and it loves the Bubble. 

I had some very good tomato basil soup for lunch.  Looking out over the Lake with my thoughts and observations was very nice.  I am pretty good company sometime.  Real company is better.

Betty Boop

SATURDAY

Sun looks good, but it is cold.  Got down to 30 degrees for a short while.  Sun came up and it will be a beautiful day.  Can't complain, because this is what we asked for. Jan came yesterday to bring my groceries.  I seem to need so much.  We went to the little alterations lady to get my two new pants shortened .  Always the short one I am.  Even 6 petite is too long. So be it, I am not growing any more. Actually I  don't think I have grown in height since 4th grade.  I guess I am stretching that a little.  4' 11" is what I am now.  (And shrinking !)

I am reading one of a series of books by W. Bruce Cameron. It is called A DOG'S PROMISE. New one in -A DOG'S PURPOSE series.  I need to read the two in between.  Hope we have it in large print.  I get tired reading any other print.  Reading takes a good part of my time.  We have a very good library here and the Book Mobile come also.  SCV is the place to be.  Come on over-we still have a few spaces left.  Jan is busy today and wont be here as usual on Saturday.  Miss our lunch time together. 

Thanksgiving is coming soon and my Crazy Old Turkey is on display. Shaking his head, if you know to touch his hat.  Also, Truman's Navy picture is on display with other Vets in the case downstairs.  We cover it all here.

Chatty Betty Boop
P.S. Sophie, you will be glad I left the CRAZY OLD WITCH I used to have that hollowed so weird, you were a little afraid of her.  Remember?  I left her behind!!  MaMaw

BALCONY

First time on Balcony for coffee in a while.  Warmer and rain coming.  I see change in the Cypress trees around the edge of lake. We have Willow trees too.  Both do well around and in the edge of water.  My little tree in front of my Balcony is still standing out red with it's full coat.  Kind of pretty.  Just for me.  I call it mine. 

Jan took me to the mall yesterday for new black pants.  Ended up with black and loden green and a very pretty sweater top.   Had Chick-filet' for lunch.  Soooo good.  I really pushed myself and was really wiped out.  Jan is so patient and efficient  shopping with me.  I really do appreciate her help in so many ways.  Well I must go and get ready for the day.

Betty Boop
Sweetly Be Everyone.

LEAVES CHANGING

You have to see the changing of the leaves in the Fall up North.  Can't describe it.  We got to travel the best way in Motor home.  Earlier by travel  trailer and pop-up also.  It was a good way for kids and it was so much cheaper.  They loved it.  Seeing so much more for our money.  That was a big factor raising 3 girls in the early days.  Not a bad way to go-in fact the best. Outside my Balcony  among the tall pines  is a tree I do not know.  It is in it's full glory of red. A few trees have been planted down South that are not native but are thriving.  So you see some color. 

We are having a Birthday Party!!  For all who have turned 90 this year and before.  It is today.  Will tell all about it after the party.  Jan and Amy are coming.  The slide show of the 90's people are being honored with a slide show on the big screen.  We took photos of us in our travels.  It was hard for me to decide,  I have so many.  Lucky me.

Betty Boop

SUNRISE

I hope some of my readers saw the sky just before sunrise this morning.  I can not describe it.  Many, many small dark clouds filled the sky as the sun sent beautiful pink rays to cut through them.  I have seen skies look this way before but not so dramatic.  I am glad I was up early to see it. Yesterday it was All Saints Day.At Church  Amy arranged a beautiful altar display of candles for 6 we lost this past year.  It was a very touching service.  Beautiful women we lost, I knew well for a long time in the church. Keep wondering why I was not among them. I  guess the Lord has other plans for me.  While I love my life now  I sometime wonder why I am still here.  I have good new friends at SCV but most of my old friends that I shared raising children with are gone. Many in the Church were very good friends.

Did I tell you that Jan and I went shopping Saturday.  Bought one top, but my personal shopper, Jan, brought for me to try on a bag of tops from TJ Max.  She knows my taste well and I chose 5 out of 6.  Made me happy. 

Betty Boop

PROVERBS; 16-31

Long life is the reward of the righteous; grey hair is a glorious crown.  Proverbs: 16:31.  I like Proverbs.  Kind of like Chinese fortune cookies?  This one has always interested me.  I am in the process of letting my hair "go grey."  My Mother had beautiful  grey hair.  I hope mine turns out the same.  As for the proverb- a righteous reward would be nice as well and as a long life (already have that), a  glorious crown would look nice.  We will  just have to  wait and see.

Betty Boop

Brrrrrrr !!!!!

Yes, it is just plain cold. Halloween!!  All the doorways were decorated.  Well most of the children-at-heart were.  Bowls of candy.  We all need a little sugar.  My favorite all time candy is Snickers.  But most chocolate will do.  I have been rationing out a bite or two  Little moderation is good for your conscience.  And good to the lips too.  Now on to Thanksgiving décor.  I hauled out the old crazy turkey that I have had a few years.  It is hard to describe him.  He carries a sign that says "GIVE THANKS".  And I hope he does remind everyone who sees him to be  thankful for all our many blessings.  I like my job of decorating the table at my entrance to my hallway. Also a few dried corn ears and husk hanging on my door will appear.  I inspire my neighbors to do the same.  (I hope.)

Well, let me get myself together and start my day.  Hope yours is a good one too.

Betty Boop

SUMMER TO WINTER

That is the way it goes.  One day you are hot and tired of summer attire, then you must find something warmer to wear.  I must go shopping.  These tired old rags wont do.  Even jeans must be looked at close.  They can change too.  I guess I don't dress "classic"--instead try to follow fashion so as not to stand out too much.  I never learned how to dress.  Yet, I hold on to some old relics till they  scream-"Please set me loose."  Of course fit is factored in there too.  Enough of this ,I need to be more thankful  for what I have. 

Amy and I ate lunch at CRAZY KATS  yesterday. Noisy and cramped feeling.  Food was O. K. but I am more the Picadilly type.  It  had to do with adjusting my hearing aids just before lunch.  I must go back again,  as they are not right yet.  I had to take them out while we ate, it was so loud.  O my, just wait till 92 and see how many little things can go wrong.  I am sorry to complain, but life does get tedious sometime.

Betty Boop

RAIN

Table mates at lunch yesterday shared memories of playing in the rain as kids.  I still can't believe my Mother let me play in the rain.  She was so protective of my actions growing up.  I could not go barefooted because as she said I could cut my foot and then what would I do on Sunday when I could not wear a shoe to Sunday School.  But surprise, I could play in the rain barefooted..  What a joyous memory.  Especially when it was hot and even the rain felt warm.  I remember how much fun it was to stand and splash my feet and get wet all over and over again.  I guess it was not a storm when we played, or lighting.  Surely that was a  no-no.  Which brought back another water memory.  Making mud pies.  Do kids get to play in the good old mud anymore? I turned out many a pie and cake in my day.  To set up a kitchen outside and cook mud cakes and pies and decorate with grass or flowers was  fun.  Also rain brought a sort  of peaceful feeling then.  Kind of like slowing things up.  Oh. but I hated the raincoat though and those old rain boots were a pain to wear.  And my umbrella always seemed to be broken and hardly much protection.  Oh, well I have brought you down Memory Lane again.  Seems that is the place I am now.

Betty Boop

GOOD BREAKFAST

Do you like breakfast?  I do.  My favorite meal of the day.  I had oatmeal with cinnamon & banana.  Whole wheat toast with apple jelly, cranberry juice coffee and a few pills to get me going.  Little too nippy on the Balcony.   Must be getting to be a wimp. Maybe if the sun was out?  Oh, Oh, it is out now.  But I am settled with my second cup and visiting my readers.  I am  surprised when someone tells me they read my blog.  Flattered in fact!  Maybe it is so ordinary and not challenging to anyone.  My stuff seems so simple and the world is not.  I talked to a resident who also new Jackson when I grew up here.  Change has kept her from going back to look.  So much is different-then I guess it is everywhere.  I am not sure all I remember is true.  Just a trick of mind to remember the best part.  But I do think we as children had a better world then. 

SO BE IT
Betty Boop

COOL AND DREARY

But that is just the weather.  Here in my little corner of the world, time marches on.  It was a pleasure yesterday to see so many families meshing together.  On both sides there are interesting people.  My hearing aids are giving me trouble so I was at a loss to do much conversation, but I could tell very one was enjoying everything.  Food was as usual the best.  I remarked when I came home to the group on the elevator that I  had a wonderful brunch.  A man asked where?  I told him my daughter's house.  Oh he said, how nice.  We don't have to go "out" to get the best food in town.  Such good cooks among my family.  I walked the Halls to look at decorations for Halloween.  Candy too.  Brought home a small stash to dole out to myself later. We do our entrances so delightful.  I guess we miss those "Trick or Treat Days"  with  children.  I remember it was almost as much fun as Christmas.

Betty Boop

BABY SHOWER

Blue for Boy !!  How did that tradition  come about?  When I have time, I will ask Mr. Google.  But yesterday Ashley's best friend gave a lovely party for her.  It  was so nice.  The gifts were exciting to me.  Seeing new things for baby, yet some are the tried things.  I remember how much fun I had with new little things, clothes, blankets and many handmade items that I still have stored away in the cedar chest.  Truman's Aunts were the best at hand made items.  I still love to look at the things I saved from each baby and remember the dreaming about those sweet memories only a mother can have.  Ashley   was excited over each gift.  I bet Bryan will be too.  I am wishing for them the memories they have ahead and know they will be blessed.    Hey !  Brunch at Jan and Mr. T's this morning to see the out of town relatives off.  We all love a get-to-gather.  And make the most of it.

Betty Boop
P.S. this will make my 7th  great-grandchild!! 

HEARING IS IMPORTANT

Jan took me to ear Dr. yesterday.  Also for my hearing aid to be checked.  Dr. cleaned my ears and  then I got the volume upped on hearing aid.  I should be "good to go."  Over the time I have had my aids, my hearing has changed, as most people will tell you.  Time does not stand still and changes do happen.  I can hear better now  . Instead maybe I can carry on a better conversation .  Maybe I can hear and just not stare like I have no idea of what you said.  Jan was so glad.  She was a little tired of it. But always kind to me.  Can't expect everyone to be so forgiving.

My, the sun just broke out from the clouds.  Should warm up and then comes rain.  A lot is promised  I got to have lunch with my friends yesterday.  It felt good since I have missed ,being under the weather for a while.  Had a good laugh when one remarked on the good looking young Priest  who was having lunch with our resident Priest.  She said we could still look and admire.  She said he was so "cute." I agreed.  Better go on that note.

Betty Boop

STILL COOL

Bright, sunny, cool and beautiful. The weather of course.  Wish I could say that about me.  Dealing with small issues keeps me down. 

On the bright side--Choir is lifting me up and making me sunny, and cool,  but we will work on beautiful. Nothing I can do   about that.  I do love the Christmas music we are practicing.  Some hard stuff.  We have over 30 members and most are like me--just average.
But with Shirley's help we MAKE A JOYFUL NOISE!!  (pun intended.)  Better go as this is getting silly. And my coffee is getting cold. Can't drink and drive! or type either. Oh yes, it is time to say good bye.

Betty  Boop

AND WE ARE BACK

Wonderful week end.  Some think cabin camping sounds rough !!  Not the way we do it.   Only my girls and their spouses could go this trip.  We had a peaceful time, good food, good conservation, and plenty sleep.  We had beautiful blue skies, cool enough for a pit fire.  The fire ban was lifted in time.  Even the resident gator kept us watching for him to float by on the small lake we were on.  Few birds of various kinds were there also.  It is a small State park and not too busy in the North Delta. with beautiful scenery on the way.  I enjoyed the getaway.  No T. V. and no internet service. so no distractions.  Everyone enjoyed that.  It  forces you to interact with each other. That is what it is so good about it.  Once in a while-it is refreshing.  Now back to the real world.  But better for the weekend. 

Betty Boop

SPEECHLESS

Nothing much new.  So I wont try to say something of interest.  Just have a good day and I will too. This Blog is sort of like a journal or diary lately.

Betty Boop

RAIN

 Yes !!  Rain at last.  I love a rainy day.  When I can stay inside and look out, like Penny.  She started on some additional meds to help her with the scratching.  I hope it helps.  That is one expensive cat.  Is she worth the money I have paid out on her.  Of course she is.  She has given me much company and  devotion.You can't put on price for that. Best cat I"ve ever had and I have had many over the years.  


Betty Boop 

SUNDAY MORNING

Chilly out there!!  But I braved it.  I heated my hand on my coffee cup and then held it to my poor old neck.  I have never had a crick to last so long.  I have tried all the home remedies I know.  Nothing seems to help.  So be it.  So cool and cloudy and the change is great.  Jan came yesterday.  She helped me go through the old cedar chest and fish out old friends.  I can still use a lot of them  Speaking of the cedar chest, it is one of several made from a big cedar tree that stood in the yard of the old homestead out from Carthage.  I don't know who made them, but I think  Truman's Papa had them made.  Several of the children got one. Truman included.  I love that it is handmade from that old tree.  Of course I messed up and changed it's finish.  But it is still the same inside. 

We had a delightful lunch at Schlotzsky's.  I had not been anywhere in over a week and just thought I needed to get out.  Everything is good and nice here, but after a while the need for a change is great.    So let us go to Church--always good.

Betty Boop

PLAYFUL COUPLE

Remember the fun pool  couple I told you about?  Found out they are indeed a married couple, just in for her special exercise.  He is just there to give her support .  Things are not always what they seem.  They are there now and he is still thrashing about and she is calmly going about her regular exercise routine.  How sweet.  It is a little cool and windy on the Balcony so I will wait for sunshine and less wind to sit there.  Can't get it right.  Of course this crick-in-the-neck is a real pain-in-the-neck.  Can't get rid of it.  It colors my feelings and I am real tired of it.  Amy came yesterday to bring me groceries. She is still tired from the Disney trip.  It was so hot that I think they all were all worn out.  Amy is dealing with Bitsy and the Vet.  We are trying something new in addition to the shots and meds by mouth.  Lot to do for her, but she is worth it.  If we could just control her itching she would be so glad.  Maybe this new meds will help.  Hope so.        See you later.

Betty Boop

CHOIR

Good to be back at regular practice.  A trip cut our members a little short, but we are back.  Seems strange to start Christmas music, but we need a lot of practice.  I realize my voice is weak and scratchy, but I am there trying and enjoying it.  That is what the Choir is all about.  Enjoyment--everyone is welcome no matter how you sing.  That is why I can be a part too.

This crick will not go away.  I have tried everything.  I do hope it is not the old shoulder problem again.  I plow on because when I am weak-I am strong.  (so the Bible says...) 

Betty (looking for strong) Boop

BE CAREFUL WHAT YOU ASK FOR

Yes it is cool on the Balcony.  It required my short winter robe and long socks.  Could have used my long robe.  Which reminds me, I need a new winter robe.  Mine is so old and I have pinned the hem up with safety pins.  I can't see to thread a needle .  Do not think it is worth repair. Need to go shopping at Dillards.  I first must see what the old cedar chest holds that I still want to wear.  Maybe I need something to buy and something to "toss."  Sounds like an adventure.  It is for me. 

History Club today.  I will call Mr. T. and see if he is interested.  He usually is.

Betty Boop

72 DEGREES ON BALCONY

My how nice to sit  on the Balcony and not get hot !!  Hope it holds and we have turned the corner to cooler weather.  Several residents are taking the chance to walk and one to ride her bike.  Nice to see things going on outside.  I woke with a crick in my neck.  Haven't had  one in a while.  I rubbed it with a rub for pain and feel better.  I hate to take pain meds.  Upset my system.  I will work it out.  Pardon the pun. 

Part of my family are home-  still some to get home--now another is away on a business trip.  Keeps my prayer list going.  I am content to play my part and stay home.

Betty Boop

SUNNY SUNDAY

I am making the most of my situation .  Even  though I don't see my kids every day, or even don't talk to them. Things will even out soon.

My it is sunny and a hint of cool weather to come.  What will I talk about then?  My little furry friend Bitsy is keeping me company.  My, I do depend on her.  We are both happy right now-she is snoozing in the sun and full of good food.  Me too.  Jimmy Dean sausage, egg white, cheese on an  English whole wheat muffin,  and O.J. and of course coffee.  That will hold me till lunch in the dinning room after "TV" church. Well let us get on with it.

Betty Boop

SLOW SATURDAY

I am at loose ends this morning.  Where to start?  Maybe laundry first.  I saw my skywriter this morning.  Too many clouds hindered him and he made a few lines only.  Not a good space to do much.  At least he is still having fun.  I say "he", but could be a "she." (Bet it is.)
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Missing Jan.  She and Mr. T. went to visit Norwoods on the coast for her birthday. Be glad to have the whole crew home soon but I am glad they can travel and enjoy.  I know Truman and I enjoyed the many, many kinds of travel we did  over years.  Makes for good memories.  The MEMORY BANK is still open.

Betty Boop