The kid in us...

Remember when you were a kid, the excited anticipation you felt when (not so patiently) waiting for Christmas, summer vacation, or something like that? That's what I have felt for the last week or so in anticipation of my visit to California. Having never been there I really wasn't sure what to expect. 
It was everything and more. Didn't get to do ALL that I wanted, but hubby made sure I crammed as much in as possible without giving me any grief! All that means is another trip out there to finish what I started. Next time, however, I think I'll make it a December trip; I nearly froze in May!! The highlight............bucket list item checked. Hot air balloon ride was phenomenal!!!
You're never too old to be a kid........never!!


Blessings... G.R.I.T.S. (Girl Raised In The South)

Anxious anticipation

It seems my posts come in spurts! Just when the mood strikes, I guess, and I've been too busy lately to feel any other mood than pooped!! :)
Some of you may know that hubby has been a bit "displaced" in the last few months. Maybe soon he will find a permanent place to light; keep your fingers crossed. But, on the up side, he is on a temporary gig in sunny CA which happens to end in a couple of weeks. In order to take advantage of this arrangement, and never having been to sunny CA, I will be joining him for the long holiday weekend coming up! Since the employment future is uncertain at this moment in time, we have put our 25th Anniversary trip on temporary hold, but wow, does he ever have a great weekend planned: San Fran (and all the fun that I can cram in), Muir Park, Napa Valley, sunrise hot air balloon ride (bucket list item), massages.......he has outdone himself just for a weekend. Really looking forward to our 'early' abbreviated anniversary celebration!! Thanks, hon.......


Blessings... G.R.I.T.S. (Girl Raised In The South)

Mother's Day

It rolls around every year...thankfully so...
There really are not enough words to describe my mom. The words that come to me just don't seem adequate. She gave me life, loved me, nurtured me, taught me, did her best to prepare me for what lay ahead, kissed boo-boos, prayed for me, protected me, beamed with pride at the smallest of accomplishments...the list is endless! I feel her presence even though she is not physically sitting next to me.
Mama, I miss you so very much but thank you for so very many pleasant memories!!


Blessings... G.R.I.T.S. (Girl Raised In The South)

Pomp and Circumstance

No, this isn't to address what is the obvious time of year for many--graduation. This is dedicated to the 'Royals'.
I remember, like it was yesterday, the wedding of Charles and Diana. In those days, before DVR, if we wanted to watch something we had to watch it "real time". So, there I was. Watching the wedding of the century. She was so young and beautiful, marrying her prince. There was so very much fuss over the matter. Every bride should be fussed over! The formality of it all, the pomp....the circumstance.
It is a new century. There will be a new princess tomorrow. I will, again, be watching. We will have the opportunity to watch Charles and Diana's first born take a beautiful bride to be his princess; him, her prince. It will, no doubt, be a beautiful occasion. There will certainly be pomp...and circumstance. It is a new era for the Royals. Blessings on their union. His mummy would approve and be very proud of her 'Little Prince'.

Blessings... G.R.I.T.S. (Girl Raised In The South)

somber

Life would be so very boring if we didn't have the emotional fluctuations, wouldn't you agree?
It is a somber Wednesday, this week. My sweet young woman of a daughter must deal with the emotions of a miscarriage. We've had so many emotions running crazy in the last 2 weeks. First we find out we will have a holiday baby; get used to the idea; and now we must grieve over the loss. So much for a young woman to deal with...
Yes, my precious daughter, you WILL be a great mom.
I love you so much.........


Blessings... G.R.I.T.S. (Girl Raised In The South)

Feelings

You remember that feeling I had not so very long ago that life changes were headed my way? Now I know what they are..........
I'm gonna be a Nana!!!! Yes, can you think of many things bigger than that?!
EXCITED!!!!!


Blessings... G.R.I.T.S. (Girl Raised In The South)

...more blessings

Circumstances over the last year have made me stop and think about life, goals, desires, and most certainly blessings. More blessings...


Hunormous                                               Small
my children                                              the funny things they've said for years
education                                                 nursing school memories
health                                                        exercise
empathy                                                   tears
Disney                                                       giggles
southern roots                                         sweet tea and blessed hearts


TGIF for the GRITS!!


Blessings... G.R.I.T.S. (Girl Raised In The South)

Dreams

It occurred to me today that my dreams are simply little blips. You see, I have a dear friend who is going on an incredible journey this year, which was a big dream......now come true. I thought about that for awhile and decided I really must start dreaming a little bigger. I must take this one step at a time......or I'll become overwhelmed. Let's see...........I think I might continue my education, first, even at 52.




Blessings... G.R.I.T.S. (Girl Raised In The South)

Blessings

Life is so full of many small, and sometimes hunormous (as Caity would say) blessings.
Hunormous                                                 Small
awesome parents                                        blond hair
hearing                                                        musical talent
sight                                                            flowers/trees
smell                                                           the ocean and rain and a baby
relationships                                                memories
Sandy                                                         a front porch friend

Happy Wednesday....they have a whole new meaning in my life!!!

Blessings... G.R.I.T.S. (Girl Raised In The South)

Life's changes

Did you ever have this deep down feeling that life changes were on the way? 
I'm really not sure what to make of the feeling, but I hope I am prepared for whatever is ahead....I pray I'm up for the challenge...


Blessings... G.R.I.T.S. (Girl Raised In The South)

My girls

I didn't really realize it had been so long since I've visited here. It's been a busy month around these parts.
I have been enormously blessed with two beautiful daughters. Now, I'm not going to lie and tell you that each and every day was a beautiful day...it hasn't been. Nonetheless, I am truly blessed. I don't know what I did right that God saw fit to permit me the single most important job of a woman's life, but I'm sure glad He knew I could muddle through, somehow. 
My oldest gift was 23 on the 12th; my youngest gift, 21 on the 20th. I strategically planned a St. Patty's Day birth, but missed on both accounts. The oldest decided it was necessary to arrive 3 weeks early.....that's the very last time she's been early for anything!!! Late is her middle name. The youngest, fashionably arrived on the anticipated due date. To this day, she is on time for everything. Both girls are blessed with strengths and weaknesses, as we all are. I love all of their traits unconditionally. The oldest is coming into her own, finding her way; trying to exercise those responsibilities that are bestowed on the #1 child. The youngest, well...she's just as special as #1


Blessings... G.R.I.T.S. (Girl Raised In The South)

Valentines Day

To the one I love, now and always....


I love you!!!!!


Blessings...


G.R.I.T.S. (Girl Raised In The South)

Fresh Air

I think I'm actually seeing light at the end of the tunnel! The sun has been out for a couple of days, now, even though the snow isn't quite completely melted. Temperatures are expected to warm up to at least 60 in the next couple of days. The bulbs I planted last year are about 2" high (no flowers yet). The bird feeders are full and they are flitting about. And I excitedly donned running SHORTS today for my jog in the park with my buddy, Roxxi. 
It's all good.......


Blessings...

G.R.I.T.S. (Girl Raised In The South)

They come.....then go.....then come back!

Was going to devote yesterday's note to my "baby" girl, but knew that my MIL deserved the spotlight. So today I will talk about my baby..
Some things are milestones in our lives: first tooth, first step, first day at school; the list is endless. In fact, my baby was talking about that with me just Sunday afternoon while she was riding with me on a trip to my office to do a few things. She herself realizes there are important milestones; she even thinks this most recent one is the final one for her 'growing up' years. Boy, do I have news for her!!
In all fairness, it was a huge milestone. You see, we helped my baby girl move into her first apartment. She researched prices, allowables for pets, electricity, internet, car insurance....everything! I am so proud of her!!! And she has paid for it all by herself, which means she is fairly self-sufficient! These are things a parent is proud of. On the other hand, I find it a little bittersweet that my sweet baby girl doesn't need to lean on mommy and daddy so much anymore. Never fear, I am certain she will return about every other week or so for a quick hello and meal cooked by momma. 
She has come and gone...will she be back? Million dollar question! Her sister is!!!


Blessings...

 G.R.I.T.S. (Girl Raised In The South)

The MIL

Today is the birthday of my mother-in-law. There are not words to describe how very fortunate I am to have her in my life!
Where do I even start? She and my father-in-law opened their home and arms to me when I started dating their 'baby boy'. I wanted to tell them he is neither a baby or a boy, but I would find out soon enough that your children will always be your babies. As I planned and prepared our wedding, my MIL had a few "words of wisdom" to share with me.....that I didn't receive so willingly. I haven't forgotten these words...........but I have forgiven. And since that time, she has been part of me. She was so helpful when my mama died. Who would have known that I would need her just the same 5 years later when my daddy died.
We have grown close over the years.  She has shared things with me that only a mom will share with a daughter. I believe the turning point for me was this....
About 3 Christmas' ago, she and I ran to my least favorite place to pick up a couple of necessary items for the annual bar-b-q. The return trip home would take us near a cemetary where many family members are buried. She asked me to stop. As we meandered around the burial sites, she stopped at one, put her arms around me and we both cried. You see, this is the one in which her first born is buried...he was 19 at his death. It was the first time in all the years I've been in their family that she has let down her guard about her feelings. It was at this time that I was, for the first time, able to call her 'mom'. She truly is  a mom to me.
I love you.......mom......


Blessings...

 G.R.I.T.S. (Girl Raised In The South)

Spring in winter

Awwwww........today is absolutely beautiful! That one perfect day in the middle of winter that makes you long for warmer temps, greener trees, and colorful flowers....better known as Spring!! Hubs and I took the big girl (who has been very naughty lately) for a long walk at a local state park. It seems everyone had the same idea. Who couldn't get out on a day like this?!
January itself is a special month. Many folks in my life, past and present, celebrate their dates of birth during this cold month. For one....my daddy. He would have been 77 yesterday. Instead of being here, he and mama are celebrating his birthday in heaven. I have a nephew who's birthday is tomorrow; he will be a teenager.....wow! Time DOES fly!!! I have a dear friend who would have had a birthday earlier this month, however, she too will be celebrating in heaven. There are others....special wishes to all of you. May you have a little Spring during your winter, too!!

Blessings... G.R.I.T.S. (Girl Raised In The South)

First Snow

This morning we were greeted by winter's first snow; first real one, that is. We had a little snow dust a few weeks ago. I was like a kid yesterday. Looking out the window and checking the weather intermittently...actually frequently! First flakes began to fall as I laid my weary, blond head down for peaceful slumber. It is always so beautiful when it is untouched; it looks like a white blanket covering the landscape. It won't be near that pretty tomorrow as it turns to slush.
I remember the first snow I actually saw and played in. I was 21 and had flown to West Virginia to visit a great friend. They were actually experiencing, what I think is referred to as, a whiteout. Couldn't see your hand in front of your face!! So exciting. And as I bundled up with 50,000 layers of clothes and set out to take a walk, was told I was crazy and way over dressed. How could that be possible?! I soon discovered that all the body heat I was generating was being held in....started shedding clothes. It sure was beautiful and SO much fun. Snow angels, snowmen, snowball fights. But the most memorable were the inner tube rides with the feller down the big hill!!!
For now, I will enjoy the gift of the natural beauty....

Blessings... G.R.I.T.S. (Girl Raised In The South)

Perfect Timing

The year is off to a fantastic start! Have completed the first week of the new job. It's been a great week!! Funny how we have to look back over the years to realize that we are exactly where we are supposed to be. The last 26 years have been spent molding me to do exactly what I am now doing....teaching. I am absolutely going to love teaching. Now I can pass on knowledge, encouragement, and kindness to folks that want to be awesome nurses.
I want to thank a very special friend for all the encouragement, patience, and love during this process. I needed it....you knew it...I love you!!!!
I am exactly where I'm supposed to be; professionally and personally!!

Blessings... G.R.I.T.S. (Girl Raised In The South)

Desk~dolls~doors

What an awesome start to a new year; a new decade. Today was the first day to, hopefully, achieving my long dream of becoming a teacher. It's sad that we don't realize during our lives that we are being prepared and molded for certain things. Some of us eventually come to this realization as we look back over the course of our lives; some, unfortunately, never see this. Maybe it's possible if we new these things as our lives move forward we would make different choices, and if we made different choices we would not get to where we need to be or were destined to be. Is everyone with me? I'm not even sure I'm with myself!! However, I do believe I have reached the destination for which I've been long prepared through life's experiences. And it all started with a little roll-top desk that belonged to my daddy, a bunch of stuffed animals and Barbie dolls, and closet doors that served as my chalk board! .....it's ALL good!!!

Blessings... G.R.I.T.S. (Girl Raised In The South)

"Skippin' Jenny"

Happy New Years to all of you.
I have just finished our annual traditional meal of Hoppin' John. For those of you who are from the South, you probably know exactly what I'm referring to. Nevertheless, I thought I'd share a little educational snippet from Wikipedia:
Hoppin' John is the Southern United States' version of the rice and beans dish traditional throughout West Africa. It consists of black-eyed peas (or field peas) and rice, with chopped onion and sliced bacon, seasoned with a bit of salt. Some people substitute ham hock or fatback for the conventional bacon; a few use green peppers or vinegar and spices. Smaller than black-eyed peas, field peas are used in the Low Country of South Carolina and Georgia; black-eyed peas are the norm elsewhere.
Throughout the coastal South, eating Hoppin' John on New Year's Day is thought to bring a prosperous year filled with luck. The peas are symbolic of pennies or coins, and a coin is sometimes added to the pot or left under the dinner bowls. Collard greens, mustard greens, turnip greens, chard, kale etc. along with this dish are supposed to also add to the wealth since they are the color of money. On the day after New Year's Day, leftover "Hoppin' John" is called "Skippin' Jenny," and further demonstrates one's frugality, bringing a hope for an even better chance of prosperity in the New Year. During the late Middle Ages, there was a tradition of eating beans on New Year's Day for good luck in parts of France and Spain. The European tradition mixed with an African food item to become a New World tradition.

One tradition common in the Southern USA is that each person at the meal should leave three peas on their plate to assure that the New Year will be filled with Luck, Fortune and Romance. Another tradition holds that counting the number of peas in a serving predicts the amount of luck (or wealth) that the diner will have in the coming year.
I am not a fan of black-eyed peas, so we use the field peas grown in our garden. And, we choose collards as opposed to the others. I do have to admit, that I had never met "Jenny" until I did this little research. Have had annual dates with her, just didn't know she had a name!! I also learned of the other traditions associated with this annual feast. I feel new traditions headed our way next year. To top is all off, hubby cooks the absolute BEST collards and peas. My job is the rice and cornbread. I'm stuffed!!
Nice to meet you, Jenny. See ya' tomorrow.

Blessings... G.R.I.T.S. (Girl Raised In The South)