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No, I haven't left for good, just been busy! The Saturday before Thanksgiving, my sister and her family came to visit. They stayed until Wednesday right before two daughters, one son and families came. Thursday morning the other son and almost daughter-in-law came, then on Saturday another daughter and a sister-in-law and families. So, by the end of the holiday, we had about 24 people in and out. We also heard more exciting news about another baby on the way. Claire is not only going to be a big sister but is also getting a new cousin. Congratulations James, Kim and Courtney! We are so happy for you guys and will look forward to meeting the third baby born to the brothers next year. What a busy year with three babies coming and a wedding. Hopefully, I'll be back on Friday with a better update and introduce our third daughter. Until then, Regina |
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Doesn't she look like she would be a wonderful BIG sister! I think so too, and before long she will be teaching her new brother or sister everything there is to know about the farm. Claire told her mom that she really wanted a baby sister but she knew that God got to choose. I'm sure that once she holds that new baby, she will love the one that God sent for her. Congratulations Charley, Heather and big sister, Claire! We love you all. Regina |
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For those of you that like cream in your coffee or you need to get into the spirit of Thanksgiving, Crystal has shared a creamer recipe that sounds delicious. I don't drink coffee but may have to have a cup just to try this creamer.
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Posted in family
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Jennifer is our second oldest and is married to Brent. They have one daughter and send lots of pictures so I've already shared a few of her.
I think as the pictures unfold, you will see that most of our kids have kids that look like their dad. I wonder if this will continue as the others have children. It will be interesting to see as more grandbabies come along. Jennifer and Brent live farther away than all the others so we only see them once or twice a year. That sure is tough on a nonna and pawpaw to have to be so far away from a grandbaby. However, we do get pictures every week so we can see all the changes. We actually have a webcam and can talk to and watch her on it. She may look like her dad but I'm sure Brent will agree, she acts like her mom. We love and miss you all, Mom. Regina |
Posted in farmlife
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This week we saw walls go up. I had asked some of the kids what color they thought we should use but finally decided that I really wanted a red barn. It's not the perfect red but it's close enough for me. Besides, it's a barn! I'm not sure when the roof will be finished. The wind is blowing 38 mph today so I would think it might be difficult to get sheetmetal on top. Here are a couple of pictures to give you an idea of how it looks.
Regina |
I guess the sun shining on the building distorted the picture. It will be nice to use when it is finished. Posted in family
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I wanted you to meet the family through pictures. I won't get all seven on today but will start with the oldest and her family. This is Kayla and her husband Shawn. They have two boys that look so much like their dad. The boys love to watch movies and play video games, but they also love being outside. They have a Papaw that has horses and a Pawpaw that has cows. Of course, the horses are more fun but they still enjoy coming to the farm where they can see Pawpaw and Nonna and all the animals.
Halloween 2008
We love you guys and can't wait to see you next week. Until next time, Nonna & Pawpaw
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Mawmaw celebrated her 79th birthday yesterday. Most of the kids called to wish her a Happy Birthday and she really enjoyed hearing from them. She seemed to be a little nervous yesterday afternoon and had me vacuum the living room and Jack fold her blankets. I'm sure she was hoping for company so when no one came, I called her sister-in-law and asked her to come out. She did and brought a cake and cards. They sang for a while, which always cheers her. Jack and I had taken her out to eat Friday night and then he cooked a big supper last night. We even talked her into watching part of a ballgame with us. I think it was out of desperation, she didn't want to watch TV by herself. All in all, I think she had a good day. She went with us to feed the animals and that is something that always makes her smile. |
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I thought I would share a few pictures so that you can see what is happening around the farm this week. FIRST, we are getting new neighbors. Recently, a retired couple that lives about a mile from us decided it was time to move closer to family. I have some friends that were looking for a place in the country and decided that the retired couple's place was perfect for them. On Monday the keys changed hands, but last Saturday the new family was able to start cleaning and getting ready to move in. Jack and I invited them to eat supper with us so after a long day of working Misty, Dean and their four boys came over for roast and gravy, green beans, rice, cornbread and pecan pie. After eating, the most amazing thing happened...their oldest son, 14 years old, got up, cleared the table, and started washing dishes. This young man has never been to our home, has never shared a meal with us, and had just met my husband. He wasn't told to do this, he took the initiative, got up and got busy! Most kids would be looking for the fastest way out of the kitchen. Yes, I was impressed. So impressed I took a picture.
I'll cook for this young man any time. His mom and I finished the kitchen and he joined the guys to watch the TX Tech football game. We enjoyed having them over and look forward to many visits back and forth across the field. Our baby chicks are doing great. They have adjusted to their new home and are growing and thriving. Hopefully we will get lots of eggs in the spring. Another neat thing that is happening on the farm is the progress that is finally being made with our barn/bunkhouse. We were afraid that it would not even be started before Thanksgiving, but now I think we will be able to start on the inside over the holiday. Don't forget your hammers boys!
The beginning...
It's getting there. Before long, we will be filling it to the brim. The outside should be finished by next Wednesday. Not only will we gain lots of storage space, but we will have plenty of room when all the kids, spouses, and grandkids are here. Now when the grandkids are asked, "Were you raised in a barn?" They can say, "Part of the time!" Regina |
Step 2...
Yesterday's progress...|
In honor of our Veterans, this morning our school held a Veteran's Day Assembly. Mr. Ernie Boyd, a former POW from WWII spoke to our students. Each year as I listen to Veterans speak, it makes me aware of the sacrifice others carried so that we can have the freedoms we enjoy. After hearing Mr. Boyd, a list of names of family members of our staff and students that have served or are now serving, was read. I felt so much pride as I heard my dad's, my brother's, and my nephew's name read aloud. To end the program, we sang the National Anthem and taps were played. This always causes such a stirring in my heart and brings tears to my eyes. Thank you to all that have so willing given of themselves for others. To my family members, my heart goes out to you in appreciation of your service and commitment to our country, The United States of America. I am so proud to be a part of your family! Regina |
Posted in family
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Our little Karr-Bear is 27 today! HAPPY BIRTHDAY, PUDDIN'! We wish for you, all good things. Your warm, caring heart is a blessing to so many. Our life would not be the same without you. We love you very much and hope today and the years to come bring an outpouring of God's love and blessings on you and your family. |
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This has not been a good weekend. We started Saturday morning with a call from a friend. She had been out and about and drove by my MIL's cleaners and noticed that it had been broken into. Nothing other than some change from the cash register was taken but the person or persons broke out the plate glass window in the front of the building. Jack and I boarded up the window after cleaning up lots of glass. We didn't even call to find out how much the replacement glass would be. We will wait until it is needed. We didn't finish this chore until after 12 so I missed a wedding that I really wanted to go to. Congratulations Joni and James. I was thinking of you and wishing you the very best. It seemed as if we could not get anything done this weekend. So, I'm behind on ironing and cleaning. Tammie, your room and bathroom will be scrubbed before you get here next week. I think some planning will help get things caught up quickly, oh yea, and lots of action on my part! We are looking forward to Tammie, Jack's youngest sister, coming. She will be here for most of the week next week to visit with Mawmaw. Yesterday after church, we got all the feeding done early. Jack was shelling pecans so I went to town. This is not one of my favorite things to do. It always takes at least two hours and if you have many things to do, it's even longer. When our kids left the farm, they all moved to the city. We love being out in the country away from the noise, traffic, and busyness. (Is that a word) Our kids think we are crazy when we tell them about all the traffic we saw going to town. Sometimes we may see three or four cars right together. That brings me to Monday...and the trip I took this morning. While trying to walk up two steps into the kitchen, I fell. Nothing was hurt as bad as my pride, just a few scrapes and bruises. Jack was concerned though and emailed our daughter, Jen. After hearing the story, she laughed and called me a dork. It did help to put things back in perspective for me and I realized that things are not as bad as I thought they were. Enough complaining...lets move on to better things and there are many. How about this one. When the other girls share pictures of the grandkids, I'll add them. Ok girls, send a few pictures of those babies! I need everyone to see what cuties we have. Regina
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Posted in farmlife
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If you are afraid to see snakes...stop reading now. Mama, get Carol to scroll past this post to see the others. With the temperatures getting cooler, we are seeing more and more snakes as they make their way back to their dens. Last night and the night before, my husband caught a snake in our yard and in a neighbor's yard. Tuesday night, Jack wanted me to hold a light on the snake while he got a snake box to put it in. I did not want to do this because I was afraid of losing the snake in the dark. However, about five of our barn cats decided to help and kept the snake confined to one area. One cat got a little too close and was bitten. She did not get sick or die so I guess the snake was just trying to scare her away. I, on the other hand, cried. I was afraid the cat would not make it after being bitten and just watching that happen makes my skin crawl. I guess that since the cat didn't die and the snake is tucked away in a snake box, all is well that ends well. I'm adding a couple of pictures of a snake that Jack caught earlier. The one he caught Tuesday night is about this size or maybe a little fatter.
That's my honey, the resident snake catcher. I don't know what I would do without him. As my dad would say, "He's as handy as pockets on a shirt!" Also Monday night, Mawmaw fell. She decided to get up without her walker or our help and get a pillow. We are not sure how or what she landed on but she cut her head on her eyebrow. I used a butterfly bandage to close the cut and Melagel has helped heal it quickly. She has a nice shiner and a couple of other bruises but is doing well. Yesterday, Roger, her friend, fell. She is asking that we pray for him. He has a terrible time with his knees and hurt one when he fell. I don't think he is walking very well right now. Until next time, be careful where you are walking! Regina
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To enjoy other daybooks, join Peggy at The Simple Woman. Outside my window...the sun is shining brightly. I'm glad to be back on standard time. I am thinking...about how much fun we had with the boys and families here this weekend. From the learning room...we are taking a major math test. I am thankful for...the privilege of voting for the person that I believe should lead our country. From the kitchen...Nothing special at the moment. I am wearing...brown pants and pink top. I am reading...Same kind of Different as Me I am hoping...to get some important things ordered before the week is over. I am creating...a baby quilt. I am hearing...children hard at work. Around the house...I think we will see progress made on the bunk house/barn this week. One of my favorite things...working cows with the family. A few plans for the rest of the week...I want to get a few things cut out and ready to sew for the grandbabies. A picture I want to share with you...
Uncle Kyle was playing washers with Claire. She had just made two points and was proud of the accomplishment. The football marked the place she was to stand and throw. It's only fair Uncle Kyle, she has shorter arms than you! Have a wonderful week! Regina |
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I'm sure that you have received or read this recently, but I wanted to share it anyway. Please be in prayer as you cast your ballot.
TEN PREDICTIONS NO MATTER WHO WINS THE ELECTION: |
Posted in farmlife
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We have pups. Can you believe only two. When I found them Monday afternoon, I just thought that there would be a few more to follow but yesterday afternoon she still only had these two. It is so funny to me that our two white dogs have brown pups. Their first litter all turned the color of Jake with the exception of one that remained a light brown.
Both are females. After the second picture, mom said that was enough and covered her pups with her front leg.
The reason Julie looks so dirty is because we can't keep her out of the water trough. She and Jake are both water dogs and enjoy a dip or two each day to cool off. Of course, then they have to roll in the dirt to dry off! I'll add other pictures as these two grow. Have a wonderful Wednesday. Regina |
Posted in farmlife
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I've decided to add "The Simple Woman's Daybook" to Monday. I will try to update each Monday with things that are happening around the farm! To enjoy other daybooks visit The Simple Woman Outside my window...the day started clear and cool. It's going to be a great Monday. I am thinking...that I can't wait to see the kids this weekend. From the learning room...we are making posters to show Newton's Laws of Motion. I am thankful for...my husband that loves and takes care of me and even teases me too much sometimes! From the kitchen...chili will sure be good tonight. I am wearing...khakis, pink top, black shoes. And I had to wear a jacket this morning. I am hoping...the pups are here when the kids get in this weekend. I am creating...nothing right now, but will soon start on some things for our new grandbaby coming in March. I am hearing...silence. Around the house...the washer is going, Mawmaw should be working with the PT this morning, and hopefully the cement man will show up. One of my favorite things...getting emails from Jennifer, they usually have new pictures of Carsyn. Since Saturday was her first birthday, I had plenty of pretty pictures to see. A few plans for the rest of the week...clean the bathrooms and plan a few meals for the crowd this weekend. We can't wait to have six extras this weekend. Here is a picture that I thought I would share with you.
This was a surprise that we found on the 17th. She's a cutie and will probably stay on the farm. Have a great Monday. Regina
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Posted in recipes
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This morning we woke to 32 degrees. The weather man had said it would drop to 39 so this was a surprise. I had to scrape ice off my windshield before leaving for school and I'm sure there was "frost on the pumpkins". Most of my family knows that I love fall. I enjoy the cooler weather, the changing leaves, and watching the last few scissor-tails before they leave for the winter. However, when the temperatures begin to drop, I want to cook. In celebration of the cool temp this morning, I think we will have potato soup and fresh apple cake for supper. Does anyone still call it supper? My kids all say dinner. Here are the recipes, I hope you enjoy them. The potato soup recipe came from my precious aunt, my dad's baby sister and the cake recipe from a friend in our little town. She says she made it for her first date with her husband. After one bite he knew she was the one for him. Patsy's Potato Soup This is a rich, but great potato soup.
4 large potatoes
2/3 cup butter
2/3 cup flour
1 1/2 quarts of milk
Salt and Pepper
4 green onions
1 cup sour cream
2 cups crisp-cooked, crumbled bacon
5 ounces of grated cheddar cheese
Procedure:
Heat oven to 350 degrees and bake the potatoes until fork tender.
Melt butter in a medium saucepan. Slowly blend in flour with a wire
whisk until thoroughly blended. Gradually add milk to the butter-flour
mixture, whisking constantly. Whisk in salt and pepper and simmer over
low heat, stirring constantly. Cut potatoes in half, scoop out the meat and set aside.
Chop half the potato peels and discard the remainder. When milk mixture is very hot,
whisk in potato. Add green onion and potato peels. Whisk well, add
sour cream and crumbled bacon. Heat thoroughly. Add cheese a little
at a time until it is all melted in. Serve with crusty French Bread and fresh butter.
On the homefront...Mawmaw had a doctors appointment yesterday. He said that he thinks she is making good progress, but wants to have a speech therapist work with her once a month. She is still singing and reading and this seems to be helping her speech. By the end of the day, she is tired and has a lot more trouble speaking. Last night the bulb, in a small lamp that she uses, burned out. She made it to our room and called my name, but was very panicked. She could not form any words to tell me what had happened. I asked her to show me and soon found the problem. After changing the bulb, she said thank you, thank you, thank you. I'm not sure what causes the panic but we are trying to help her through these times. Hopefully, as she gets better the panic attacks will stop.
Until next time, Regina
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Posted in recipes
While we are anxiously awaiting the arrival of the new pups, I thought I would share a recipe that some of our girls have asked for lately. The recipe was shared with me many years ago and is a great way to use left over chicken.
Chicken Pot Pie10 in. pie plate 1 pkg. refrigerator Piecrust or 2 homemade 1 ½ c. chopped chicken (left over baked or fried chicken tastes wonderful) 1 can Veg-All, drained (I use frozen mixed veggies) Cream of Chicken Soup Chicken Broth 2 tsp. Poultry seasoning Salt to taste Roll one crust out to fit pie plate. Add chicken and drained veg-all. Mix 1 can cream of chicken soup with ¾ cup chicken broth. Add poultry seasoning and salt and mix well. Pour over chicken and veg-all. Cover with second crust, flute, and cut slits (vents). Bake 1 hour at 345 degrees. Let stand 10 – 15 minutes before serving. This will be one of those recipes that your kids will ask for often and is quick and easy for those busy evenings. Enjoy! I hope by the end of the day, I will have puppy pictures to share. Regina |
Posted in family
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This is our youngest grandbaby. She's ready for the fun to start! I sure miss you baby girl. Nonna sends all her hugs and kisses to you!
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Posted in family
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HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO ME!! My birthday is not until tomorrow, but this is what I saw when I got to school today! Yesterday, I was called out of my classroom and taken to the superintendents office. I was told that I had a very angry parent waiting to speak with both the superintendent and myself. When I walked in, to my GREAT surprise, I saw two of my sisters, one nephew, and my dad. They had flown in from MS, almost 1000 miles, to celebrate my 50th birthday. Yep, the BIG 5-0. Of course, my precious principal covered my classes so that I could leave early and spend time with my family. This morning when I arrived at school, late because Laurie, my sister, wouldn't get ready!!! I walked into another surprise. My students and other teachers were waiting in the hall and had decorated my door and the wall outside my classroom. They even rolled out the "orange" carpet. A sign that reads "Wheelchair crossing!" Laurie, again, was the culprit! She had signs made to cover the halls, front of the school, and the banner hanging outside my room. What a great birthday surprise, but to top it all off...I had a few cheerleaders come by to sing to me. Aren't they beautiful? If I live to be 100, I will never have a more special "surprise" birthday weekend. Thank you family for all the treats and TRICKS! Love you all. Regina
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