Happy 34th Birthday, Aaron!

Happy Birthday to our handsome son-in-law, Aaron.  Hayley made a wonderful choice in husbands.  He's a great guy, even though he is a brat!  (Fits right in our family. Dennis and Nicholas are brats, too!)

Actually, he is a fine young man, great husband, and loving father.  It is obvious just by watching him with Molly how much he loves her and vice versa!  Molly is a fortunate little girl.

We  see so many great qualities in Aaron.  He is a hard worker, a good provider, and a tender-hearted man.  I always notice his good manners, too.  We are so glad that he has a heart for God.  That is very important to us.  We have no doubt that he and Hayley will raise Molly in a Christian home.

So sorry that Aaron had to work on his birthday.  There ought to be a law about that!  :D  Dennis and I hope he has a good day and a fun evening with his precious family.  It sounds like they're going to  the Thunder game.  That should be fun.

Happy Birthday, Cameron!

Happy 11th Birthday to our charming great-nephew, Cameron.  Just look at that face! You can plainly see what a delightful young man he is.  Dennis and I wish him a wonderful day filled with birthday fun!

Happy Birthday, Olivia!

Happy 11th Birthday to our sweet Olivia!  She is growing up to be a lovely young lady.  Dennis & I love her very much and wish her a fabulous day.

Christmas '10~After thoughts

Christmas is officially over, but somehow it is lingering in my heart.  I have never spent a Christmas like this before.  I have had some especially wonderful ones that I will never forget, but this one was like no other.

My mortality has weighed heavily on my mind for some reason, not in a morbid way thankfully, but in a savor everything in your heart way.  I praise God every day for my good health.  I feel well, and even though I had three tiring days, I wouldn't have changed a thing.  I went to bed tired but happy every one of those nights!  :D

Our families mean so much to us, and we wish we could have spent time with all of them.  This year we couldn't work it out with Linda and her kids.  That made me sad because I absolutely love Linda's kids and grandkids!  They are all a delight!

Christmas night we had such a good time with our kids.  God has blessed us so much.  Our kids, their spouses, and of course, Molly, bring us so much joy.  We laughed a lot and enjoyed "harmonica" music.  Santa gave all 3 guys harmonicas, and it amazed us how quickly they picked it up.  The learning part wasn't too great, but the final performances were.

On the 26th we had a great time in El Reno, my home town.  I am so blessed to have both of my parents still with me and in such good health.  They have their struggles, but they are still "Mom & Dad".  This year we had everyone there at their house.  We are a loud bunch, but its a joyful noise.  As Dad said, "as long as there aren't any fights going on he doesn't care about noise."  He's right about that.  We just had a good old Christmas and enjoyed the great-grandchildren.  They were our entertainment! :D  By the way, great-grandchild #6 is on her way.  She is slated to arrive at the end of April.  We all can't wait!!  She will be entering the Kincer family.  That is Emberly and Chad, in case you didn't know.

Merry Christmas!

Joy to the world!  The Lord is come!

Christmas 5! Miscellaneous Thoughts

These days Christmas has taken on a different meaning to me.  I still love the anticipation of it all, but I guess as I get older I reflect more on the giving aspect.

I pretty much don't even care if I get any gifts or not.  I love getting them and my family does an amazing job of surprising me with things that I love.  However, the fun of giving is my biggest delight.  I even like to try to surprise Dennis with his gifts.  If I just pay attention, he drops great hints all the time.  My problem is remembering them!  I need to keep a list in my purse.

Last night was the Children's Christmas Program at our church.  I admit to getting a little jaded about them in the past.  When I have helped with them, I have been disappointed in the behavior and attitude of some of the kids and I guess that rubbed off on me.  I was always pretty certain that their parents would be disappointed in them too if they knew.  Doing a program at school was a better situation.  They knew I gave them grades and could send them to the principal.

Last night I was delighted by the singing of the children.  They sang with heart and you could hear them loud and strong.  The play was sweet and they did a great job.  Congratulations to their directors on a job well done.  I actually felt that the children cared about the story they were telling.  It filled me with even more Christmas spirit.

The Christmas story never gets old.  We need to focus on it instead of all the retail aspects of Christmas.  Rhonda Regier sang a song in Church yesterday morning that I keep singing in my mind.  It  is so true.  The baby changed everything.  

Christmas 4: Caroling

I love to sing!  I always have and always will.  One of the sweetest memories I have of my Granny Smudrick actually occurred the last time I saw her.  We went to visit and she could no longer make sounds loud enough to hear.  I was sitting by her and noticed her mouth was moving.  My aunt told me "she's singing!"  I couldn't hear it, but my Granny could.  It is amazing to me how much joy can be received by singing, even singing in your mind.

As an elementary school music teacher, I loved teaching Christmas music to the students.  My principal told me that he wanted the children to sing 2 songs every morning at opening during December.  He wanted one secular song and one traditional carol.  I was thrilled to have his support in that.  Every one needs to know at least two verses of "Joy To The World", "Away In A Manger", "O Come All Ye Faithful", and of course, "Silent Night"!  I always told the children that if they ever went caroling they would need to know them.

After the Vienna Choir Boys came to Fairview, we learned "Silent Night" in German.  I love it when my former students come up and tell me they still remember the German words.  Every time I hear "Silent Night" I sing the first verse in German.  After all, it was first written in German.  It seems fitting!

Tomorrow, the caroling time is at 1:30.  I can't wait to go enjoy!  It is a little slice of Heaven!  :D

Christmas 3

The cold weather has set in.  It isn't unbearable, but I don't care for it.  Where did my beautiful hot summer days go?  People think I'm weird because I wear a flannel shawl most of the year.  That is because my liver condition makes me feel cold a lot.  I keep a shawl at church to wear during the services.  I just need a little more warmth than most folks.

I wouldn't want the weather not to change, though.  I love the ebb and flow of the seasons.  I can put up with the shorter days and cooler temps.  It makes Spring so wonderful when it comes!  That said, I am really jealous that Hayley, Aaron, & Molly have a trip to Phoenix planned in January.  I could go for a dose of the warmer temps.  I totally understand the lure of being a "snowbird".

Some of my favorite Christmas memories involve being "cold".  I remember going to the feed store with dad to get our Christmas tree.  We always went up in the attic to choose it and it was "cold" up there.  Dad used to MAKE us go caroling (which I am ashamed to admit!)  It is a sweet memory now and involved being "cold".  We used to take our kids Christmas shopping in Enid on the square.  I don't think we had Nicholas yet, when this memory occurred.  Hayley and I ran down to Simpsons to shop for Dennis.  It was a really "cold" night, but a great memory that we both love.

The best thing about the cold weather is being inside watching Christmas movies and drinking hot tea or chocolate.  Sounds like a plan for tonight after we brave the "cold" to go the Christmas Band Concert.  :)

Christmas 2

I love the music of Christmas!  Last night we attended the Living Christmas Tree concert at 1st Baptist Church in Weatherford, OK.  Our friends, John & Midge Gerber, are the director and accompanist.  What a lovely evening it was.  All music was performed by memory by an 80 voice choir.  It was glorious.

Recently a performance of "The Messiah" has been going around.  It was a "Random Act of Culture" and happened at the Macy's store in Philadelphia.  Every time I see it, it makes me have tears.  Not only is the music grand (accompanied by a fabulous in-store pipe organ), the message gets to me at the core of my heart.  I know that sounds dramatic, but its the truth.  Music speaks to my inner soul.

I've heard Bing Crosby sing "White Christmas" several times on the radio and wonder if he got totally sick of that song.  :D  I hope not because it always makes me smile.

The last day of school before Christmas break we always had a caroling time at the elementary school.  I was always nervous, but loved it, too.  Since I have retired I can go and just enjoy.  It was great last year, and I can't wait to go this year.  There is nothing in this world like children singing!

Christmas 1

I love Christmas!  Some years I haven't been in the Christmas spirit very much and that made me sad.  I realize that it is a problem with my spirit and it's relationship with God  that holds me back.  I am ashamed of myself when that happens.

This year I am smiling and enjoying everything about the season.  Molly makes it even more fun for me.  The other night when we went to sleep we listened to the Classical Christmas music station.  It was glorious.

I love attending Christmas concerts.  I love performing in Christmas concerts.  When Bev pulls out the Christmas music in choir I am so happy.

Nicholas is a Christmas fellow.  You might not guess to look at him that he loves everything about Christmas so much.  Even as a little fellow he wanted a string of Christmas lights and a tree in his room.  I say that Brooke is lucky to have a husband that likes to decorate for Christmas.  Most of us know how our husbands hate the words "Will you help me put the tree up?"

This year will be a special Christmas for Hayley & Aaron.  Molly doesn't understand it at all, but she puts delight in everything about it.  That little girl is such a sweetie, and I'm not at all prejudiced!  :D

Thanksgiving, Chapter Two

Well, Dennis & I didn't have the Thanksgiving we had hoped for.  Wednesday afternoon I made my 2 pumpkin pies and 1 mincemeat pie.  I felt perfectly fine.  I was planning on us going to El Reno to spend the night.  That way we could help mom & dad the next morning.  Dennis was outside working when my stomach started to hurt.  At 7:00 I called mom and told her we weren't coming to spend the night.  I still didn't think I was getting the stomach flu.  My stomach just ached.

Later I got the full-blown stomach flu with all of the crummy symptoms!  I spent a totally miserable night.  Thanksgiving morning I started to feel a little better, my stomach started to settle down.  I still had a fever, but I was able to drink a little Powerade.  Dennis now had all the full-blown flu symptoms!

I called my liver specialist's office and a nurse returned my call.  She told me to take Tylenol and Immodium.  I was afraid to take either one because of my condition, but she told me all of the liver specialists allow them.  My fever never went below 100, but I did feel better.

This morning we are both much better.  I'm afraid to eat anything, but might try some chicken noodle soup later.  As for my pies, I guess I'm throwing them away.  I certainly don't want to reinfect myself!

Oh, yes, I forgot to tell you that Hayley was also sick with the same thing.  Precious little Molly had been sick Monday night, but we all thought she was just teething.  Aaron is sick today!  I'm sure Nicholas & Brooke are glad that we didn't get anywhere near them.  I'm worried about Linda, Regina, Bethany, Cameron, & Olivia because we had had a delightful visit with them Wednesday!

  

Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving might just be my favorite holiday.  I  love the food, fun, and meaning of it.  It is a time when we all get together and just enjoy each other.  We don't have to rush around and buy gifts, we just relax and enjoy.

All of my life I have been so blessed with family, friends, and good fortune.  I often reflect on how wonderful it is that I was born in the USA and grew up in the '50's and '60's.  Life has been very good.
Why then don't I remember more often to thank my Heavenly Father?  I'm ashamed to say that I fail miserably in this.

Today I want to challenge myself to stop and notice all of my blessings.  I thank God for all of them, most of all for loving me and sending His Son, Jesus Christ, to die on the cross for my sins.

Happy Birthday, Mom!

November 22 is my mom's birthday.  She is 84 years young.  I say young because she still has a young attitude.  She keeps up with all of her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren's lives.  She doesn't seem to be any older than she ever was.

I love to call and talk to her because she still gives great advice.  I've said before how much we depend on our moms for sympathy.  There's simply nothing that can replace her.

I told her recently that every single day I think of some of the things she tried to instill in me.  I know she probably thinks she failed miserably with me, but I do actually remember some of it.  :D

As you can see by the picture, she is still a beautiful woman.  That is true inside and out.  I hope I can be a little like her some day.

Joyce, Betty Jean, and I owe her a lot.  We simply don't tell her that often enough.  Mom, I love you and hope you have a happy birthday.

Love, Francy

Happy Birthday, Bill!

Happy Birthday to our nephew-in-law, Bill Munsell!  Just look at him.  You can see what a great guy he is just by looking in his eyes.

We love the way he is rearing precious Sarah & Freeman.  He is a wonderful husband to Rhonda and they make quite a team.

If you have ever met Bill, you realize right away that he is intelligent, caring, and fun-loving.  Try taking a ride in his car with him sometime!  It is an experience.

Dennis and I hope he is having a great day.

Happy Belated Birthday, Lowell!

Sorry, Lowell, I have been lax about writing in my blog lately!  It seems like I start drifting this time of year every year!  I  don't want to miss letting everyone know how much Dennis & I think of you.

Lowell is a kind, loving, levelheaded man who is always ready to help someone else out.  He is a great husband and father and is admired by all who know him.

He fits into our wacky family and has been known to join in with the other brothers-in-law in torturing their wives.  All of you who know Joyce, Betty Jean, and me know that we have never done anything to deserve that!  Maybe it is Dad rubbing off on them!  :D

Dennis & I hope Lowell had a fantastic day.  He deserves it!

Happy Birthday, Freeman!

Precious Freeman is 3 years old today! Isn't he a cutie?  You can tell he is all boy and full of mischief.  That's my favorite kind of boy.  His eyes just twinkle.

Uncle Dennis and I hope he had a wonderful day that was full of fun. Maybe Charlie gave him a great big kiss!  :D  (Charlie is the family beagle and those two get into lots of trouble together!)

We love you, Freeman!

Happy Birthday, Jeremy!

This time of year in our family is full of birthdays!  Today is Kristin's husband, Jeremy's birthday.  As you can see by this picture he always has a big smile.  His merry spirit shines through.

Not only is he a great husband to Kristin, but he is a loving daddy to precious Turner.  This came as no surprise to us.  We knew he was a great guy the first time we saw him.

Dennis and I hope Jeremy has a wonderful day.  He deserves it.

Happy Birthday, Chad!

Happy Birthday to Chad!  Chad is our niece, Emberly's, husband.  You can tell by his picture that he is a great guy who is full of fun.  We love it that he is in the ministry. He has a heart for his Lord and it shows. A big change is coming into his life next spring.  He is going to be a father.  We know he'll be great at it.

Dennis & I hope he had a wonderful day with his sweet wife.

Happy Birthday, Linda!

                                                                                                                                                                      Today is Linda's birthday.  Dennis and I hope she has had a wonderful day.  I nearly goofed up and didn't get this posted.  I wouldn't have wanted to do that.  Linda may wish that I had, but here's my chance to get even, uh, I mean let her know what a great sister-in-law she is!

From the day I met her I knew I would love her.  She accepted me right from the start.  We actually have some things in common, even though she does everything 10 times better than I do, and I'm not kidding! Linda has been a role model to me in everything from being a wife and mother, to being a good friend.  She is not a sit around kind of lady.  She is active in so many things and really enjoys life to the fullest!

You can tell from this picture that she is also a delightful  grandmother! All of her precious grandchildren love her and that is easy to understand.  She is an amazing lady and I am lucky to call her my sister!

Happy Birthday, dear Linda!

Happy Birthday, Peanuts Gang!

My niece, Regina, just informed me by email that today is the 60th birthday of the Peanuts Gang!  Wow, I can't believe I didn't know that.

I guess when I said that I had loved them as long as I could remember I was correct.  Who would have known they were one year older than I am?  No wonder I love them.  They grew up with me!  That is one of the reasons I love their movies so much.  Their school parties, programs, holidays, etc. are so similar to what I grew up with.

May they be around for us to enjoy forever and never grow old!

Happy Birthday, Brooke!

Happy Birthday to our dear Brooke.  We hope she has a great day.

Brooke is our daughter-in-law, and we love her a lot.  Just look at that smile. What a beauty!  She is also a fantastic teacher, homemaker, pianist, OU fan, and much more.  She is handling all of this while working on her Master's Degree.  Her plate is definitely full, but she manages to work it all in somehow.

We love that she has a heart for God.  We prayed that Nicholas would find a Christian wife, a blessing to his life.  We feel that he has that. Her parents reared her well and it shows.

This weekend is the OU/Texas game.  We're glad that they are going.  It should give Brooke some happy birthday time that she well deserves!

Happy Birthday to a delightful young lady!  Have fun with your honey!

Happy Birthday, Rhonda!

Happy Birthday, Rhonda!  Isn't this a beautiful picture?  I love it!

Today, is our niece's birthday.  I vividly remember the first time I saw her.  She was 3 years old, and I thought she was the prettiest little girl I had ever seen.  She was a beauty then and is a beauty now.

Rhonda is a tenderhearted, intelligent, loving, well-spoken young woman.   I love to see her gentle ways, and she takes after both of her parents.

Rhonda and Bill are the parents of two of my most favorite people in the world, Sarah and Freeman.  I delight in hearing of their family life.

Dennis and I hope that she has a very happy birthday with her precious family!  She deserves it!

Happy Birthday, Corbin!

Today is Corbin's 3rd birthday.  Isn't he a cutie?  Our family is blessed with some darling little boys.

We hope he has a lot of fun today, and can't believe how big  he is getting.  That baby look is definitely turning into a little boy look.  He has a whole life ahead of him to explore his world and we pray that he enjoys every minute of it.

Happy Birthday, Corbin!  We love you!

Happy Birthday, Joyce!

Happy Birthday to my sister, Joyce!  She deserves a wonderful, relaxing day.

Joyce is generous to a fault and an example to me.  She gave me two of my most favorite people in the world, Kristin & Kourtney.

Now she is setting me a new example.  She is a wonderful grandmother!  She takes care of her two precious grandsons!  She is doing a great job with them and she does it all with a smile.  She keeps dropping these blatant hints that I come stay with her and help her babysit.  I totally would, but I just can't seem to get away! :)  (Dennis needs me here, you know!  That's my story and I'm sticking to it!  HA!)

Music runs in our family and Joyce is so musically talented.  Her soprano voice is beautiful, and I love to hear it.  If you get a chance to hear her sing, you'll agree with me, I'm sure.

Happy Birthday, Sissy!  I love you!

Happy Birthday, Kourtney!

Today is our dear niece, Kourtney's, birthday!  She has been a delight to us from the day she was born.  Look at that mega-smile.  That is her to a T!

Since she and Hayley are the same age, we have lots of memories and pictures of her growing up.  I'd include them here, but she could blackmail me right back!  :)

Now she is a beautiful wife to Jason, and mother to darling Kline.  It is great to see how she loves her little family.  They are all very dear to us.

Have a fun day.  You deserve it!

Happy Autumn!

I love Autumn.  I even like the word, Autumn.  It is a visually beautiful word.  I know you think I'm crazy but I can't help it.  Autumn is a beautiful word!

When I taught school I always made a big deal about the changes of the season.  I taught the students all about what it actually means and even made them call the dates by their real names, Autumnal Equinox, Winter Solstice, Vernal Equinox, and Summer Solstice.  Somehow calling it the first day of Fall just doesn't cut it with me.

I can hear you thinking, "weren't you the MUSIC teacher?" Yes, I was, but I threw in all subjects when they came up. I love vocabulary so I tried to explain what the big words in songs meant.  I tolerate math, so I taught fractions when we discussed rhythm and beat.  I taught science when we studied sound.  All you people out there who think that the music class is just another recess are totally wrong.  I could get on a soapbox about that, but I'll spare you.

Somehow I digressed, so back to Autumn.  I feel melancholy when Autumn comes because the summer is over and the year is winding down, but I love the weather when it is crisp, but not cold.  I love when the leaves turn colors, and I love Autumn foods.  Apples, nuts, and pumpkin are comfort foods to me.  I have even tried a pumpkin soup in NYC.  I loved it!

Today is the Autumnal Equinox.  Enjoy!

P.S.  Tonight is one of the rare times that a Harvest Moon occurs exactly on the Autumnal Equinox.  Enjoy the beautiful full moon!

Walking

Dennis' cousin sent us this and I just had to share it.  I think they are quotes from "Maxine" of Hallmark fame.  I especially love numbers 5, 6, & 8!  Sometime I'll blog what I really think about walking.  For now, just enjoy.

The Importance of Walking
1. Walking can add minutes to your life.
This enables you at 85 years old
to spend an additional 5 months in a nursing
home at $7000 per month.
2. I like long walks,
especially when they are taken
by people who annoy me.
3. I have to walk early in the morning,
before my brain figures out what I'm doing.
4. I joined a health club last year,
spent about 400 bucks.
Haven't lost a pound.
Apparently you have to go there.
5. Every time I hear the dirty word 'exercise',
I wash my mouth out with chocolate.
6. If you are going to try cross-country skiing,
start with a small country.
7. I know I got a lot of exercise
the last few years,......
just getting over the hill.
8. We all get heavier as we get older,
because there's a lot more information in our heads.
That's my story and I'm sticking to it.

Mom, continued!

I thought of another one!  "Be sure your sins will find you out."  Boy, was she ever right.  I never could figure out how she knew (until I was a mom!)    :)

Jackie Evancho

This beautiful little girl has the most angelic voice I have ever heard.  I cry like a baby when I listen to her.  Enjoy!

Jackie Evancho ~ America's Got Talent TOP 10

Moms

I am a collector of quotes.  I love them.  My children love them.  And to my surprise, my son-in-law loves them.  I think I get that from my mom.  She collects funny cartoons, quotes, poems, etc. and puts them in a notebook.  It is one of the things I hope to inherit from her.  Maybe I'd better get my name in for it.

One of my favorite quotes is "Wherever I wander, wherever I roam, wherever my mom is will always be home."  When I think about it, this quote is absolutely true.  We simply can't do without our moms!  I used to tell people that when I need to be straightened out, I call my sister, Joyce, and tell her to work me over.  I love how she cuts to the point. Ordinarily she wouldn't be so blunt, but she can tell when I call that I'm serious about her laying it out on the line.  Then I would call my sister, Betty, for sympathy.  Don't get me wrong, all three of us are tenderhearted saps.  Joyce is just as bad as I am if not worse.  I just have another job for her! :)  Lately, though, I have been telling Betty that she is getting a little on Joyce's territory, so I go to mom for sympathy.  :)  That's where I should have gone in the first place!

There is no one on earth that can give you sympathy like your mom!  Moms give you sympathy for anything from a mild cold to a serious illness!  They help you through hurt feelings from being called names in elementary school to breaking up with our boyfriends.  We all know that we would rather suffer whatever it is than have our children go through it.  There is a famous quote by Elizabeth Stones about "having a child is deciding forever to have your heart go walking around outside your body."  So true!

We jokingly call going to spend a few days with mom & dad "going to the spa".  We joke about it, but there is some truth to it.  Its like a spa for the soul.

Moms are also a source of quotes that we never forget. Some of my favorites are:
"Honesty is the best policy."
"Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me."
"Straighten up and fly right."
"I'm going to turn around twice and I'll be the only one left in this room."
"I'll owe it to you 'til the day I die before I cheat you out of it."  Mom quoted this a lot, but she got it from her Uncle Billy.  There are so many more.  I'll have to think about it and write them in a later blog.

These days we can talk to mom any time we want.  Cell phones take us to her in nothing flat.  Unconditional love! That's what a mom is!  Sorry, I need to go, I have to call mom!

Boomer Sooner!

Football season is my favorite sport season of the year!  I'm a girly-girl, but I love football!  I watch basketball (a little), but I really get into football, especially OU!!!!  That is the reason that I put red on the blog this time.  Don't worry, pink will return!

I always think of Dennis' mother, Lucille Kusch, this time of year, too.  She loved Big 12 football.  She would call me and have me tell her what games were on.  She loved OU the best, but would watch whichever Big 12 game was on. On Saturdays she would watch one game after another. She was also known to watch a team wearing red and white because she would think they were OU.  I always smile when I remember how she would call me to see what the score was because her eyesight was getting so bad that she couldn't see it on tv.

The year that the Yellowjackets won the State Championship Lucille attended nearly every game.  She stuck it out through the cold weather clear to the end.  That's a true fan. Of course, the fact that Nicholas was on the team was a real drawing card.  At the State Finals he had quite a crew of family there watching him.

I love football.  I'm so glad that Lucy doesn't play for OU.  I think you can see why!!!  :)

(I am now singing!)  
"Boomer Sooner, Boomer Sooner, 
Boomer Sooner, Boomer Sooner!  
Boomer Sooner, Boomer Sooner, 
Boomer Sooner, OKU!
  
I'm a Sooner born, and a Sooner bred, 
and when I die I'll be a Sooner dead.  
Rah Oklahoma, Rah Oklahoma, 
Rah Oklahoma, OKU!"

Sorry, Jason!

I goofed up! I have been trying to keep on top of everyone's birthdays this year. I thought I was doing pretty well when Hayley mentioned Jason's birthday that was last week!! I hate it when I mess up!

Anyway, I want to take this opportunity even if it is late to say a few things about Jason. He is relatively new to our wacky family and seems to be adjusting to us pretty well. Its a tough job and he seems to be on top of it! :)

It is obvious that he loves Kourtney and precious little Kline. Kline loves his daddy and they are cute to watch. Jason is also tall, handsome, well-spoken, polite, and much more. He makes a great addition to our family. We are glad to have him.

I hope you had a very happy day and will forgive me for being so late with this.

Happy Birthday, Dennis!

Happy Birthday, Dennis! A gorgeous guy then (1971) and a gorgeous guy now!

I can't begin to say how much my life has been richer because of you. You are my best friend, and I love you with all of my heart!

People that know you see exactly what kind of man you are. You live your life by your beliefs. A man of conviction you lead by example.

Thanks for putting up with me all of these years. I know that lately I have been putting you through some scary things. I appreciate your being by my side through it all. I couldn't have faced some of it without you.

Enjoy your birthday, Fritz. I'm so glad you finally caught up with me!

Love always, Your Wiff!

Country Western Music

Just about everyone who knows me could tell you I am not a fan of Country Western Music!! I love classical music, show tunes, 60's music, Christian music (especially hymns and "Agnus Dei" by Michael W. Smith), old songs from our history, well, just about everything except hiphop and CW. I have even been known to enjoy an occasional rap song (very few, though.)

However, once in a while my children have tricked me into liking a CW song. We have always had a rule in our family that whoever is driving gets to pick the radio station. When Dennis drives we always listen to classical music and sometimes play a game we made up that our children make fun of us about. It is called "Guess the Composer". When I don't have any idea I always guess Buxtehude. One time I was actually right. Dennis & I got a big laugh out of that one.

If Nicholas is driving we always have to listen to Country Western. That is how I found my first CW song I actually liked. It was about a little boy who was throwing a baseball up in the air and trying to hit it with a bat. He never could do it, but instead of getting discouraged, he said, "Even I didn't know I could pitch like that!" I'm sure most of you know it because it is an old one.

Hayley played me a CW video the other day that I had to admit I enjoyed. It is a song called "My Best Days Are Ahead Of Me" by Danny Gokey. I didn't have the name right, but Hayley straightened me out. It has a great message, and I am adopting it as my theme song for this year.

Don't get me wrong, I'm not being won over and still wonder where I went wrong with both of my children. I'm just saying you might enjoy those two songs, too.

Back To School!

This is my second year of being retired. It seems weird not reporting today with the other teachers. This inservice week was always one of my favorite weeks. I wasn't too fond of some of the meetings, but I loved getting my room ready and seeing everyone again. I'm wishing everyone a very successful year.

I loved school as a child. Yes, I loved summer and all of the breaks, but I have fond memories of all my friends, and Most of my teachers. :)

To celebrate my freedom I am planning something fun on August 20. It is partly to help me not be homesick for all the students and my coworkers, and mostly to rejoice that I am feeling well and enjoying retired life. I'm trying to think of something special that I have always wanted to do, but haven't gotten around to doing. I guess its kind of like a retirement bucket list! :)

Heat!

It is August, and it is wonderfully, beautifully HOT! I spend so many months of the year being too cold. I am glorying in this heat. I love to sit on my front porch and just soak it in. Yes, it does get too hot after a while, even for me, but I truly am enjoying it. Thank you, God, for this blessing to me. Sorry, all of you people that are struggling with it. I'll enjoy it for you. :)

Happy August!

Happy August, everyone! I used to get depressed when August came because school started so soon. I was weird, though, because I was depressed AND excited. Now I've discovered I still have the same emotions, but they are completely switched. I am depressed because school is going to start without me and excited that I don't have to go back. I know I'm crazy, but I get homesick for the routine and the children. I miss hearing them sing. I miss my room. I miss school supplies, which I do admit was and is an unhealthy obsession of mine! I miss filling out my grade book and trying not to make any mistakes! (I never succeeded in that!) I miss opening. I even miss doing the programs. I don't miss the stress. I don't miss being sick from November to March every year. Most of all I don't miss ALARM CLOCKS!

P.S. The colors of my blog right now remind me of Hayley's wedding. When she said pink & yellow I nearly died. Turned out to be beautiful!

P.S.S. Hayley just reminded me that the colors were actually strawberry & lemon. Either way she was right and the wedding was beautiful! Just shows that sometimes you have to trust people. :)

Why "Peanuts"?

I have loved the "Peanuts Gang" for as long as I can remember. My sisters used to call me "Lucy". I never could figure out why. She is crabby, and I, on the other hand, am just like "Mary Poppins". I'm practically perfect in every way. :)

It is easy to see why I love Schroeder. The piano is such a part of my life that, of course, I'm drawn to him. I always think it is cute to see him playing his toy piano with the bust of Beethoven on top. One of my college friends painted me a picture of Beethoven playing a toy piano with a bust of Schroeder on top. It is one of my treasures!

The children at school knew that I loved the "Peanuts Gang" because I decorated my room with "Peanuts" things constantly. They started giving me their "Peanuts" things which I thought was incredibly sweet. I hated to take any of it, but they were delighting in giving them to me. Of course I prominently displayed all of it!

I have thought of hiring someone to watercolor paint me a picture of Lucy as Scarlett O'Hara, one of her as a figure skater doing pairs skating with Schroeder, and one of her as a German operatic soprano. You know the ones with the helmet on. I'm sure it would be a copyright infringement so I haven't done it.

Yes, I'm a "Peanuts" fanatic. I always will be. Maybe someday Molly or one of my other 10 grandchildren will love the "Peanuts Gang" too. Do you think my children will catch my subliminal hint?

Metisha

I wrote a whole thing about how much I hate being sick and having to go to doctors, give blood, etc., etc., etc. When I read it in light of the prayer vigil for Metisha I felt ashamed of myself. Metisha is in a big battle for her life. My little complaints seem very childish.

I am praying tonight for Metisha in so many ways. She is young, beautiful, fun-loving, well I could go on and on. The biggest thing I can say about her, though, is what an inspiration she is to others going through health concerns. I am praying that she is able to keep her positive spirit. It has to be so hard to do. I am praying that she will get to go back to her teaching this fall. It means so much to her.

Mark has stood by her and watched her struggle. I'm sure it is killing him to not be able to fix it. I am praying for his strength, too. Barbara and Danny have to be hurting inside so hard that they just about can't breathe. No parent wants their precious child to suffer. I am praying that they will be able to withstand all of this.

Lord, please don't let them or their doctors despair. Give them all of your grace and comfort. Thank you, Lord, for the way Regan has kept us all informed even though she probably cried every time she wrote an update.

Lord, please give the doctors wisdom and a plan for Metisha. Help her not to suffer. So many of the cancer treatments make you feel horrible and experience pain. Give her the strength to bear them.

Help us all, Lord, to remember to uphold Metisha all the time, not just during our assigned time. She is your child. Help her to rest in You. Comfort all of her loved ones and give them all the strength they need to carry on. We love and care so much for them. This is so hard for our whole town. We love Metisha and want her health restored.

Lord, we are trusting in You!

Why "Pink"

I told Hayley today that my blog is turning out to be a birthday tribute page. That is ok, I want to do that, but I also want to write about other things.

That brings me to "Why, pink?" During the early part of my life I loved red. I still like it a lot, but I switched to the fabulous color of pink in Junior High. I walked home sometimes with my neighbor, Nikki. She told me that she loved the color pink better than red. For some reason that took hold of me and never let go. That was 47 years ago and I still love PINK!

I told my sister, Joyce and all the students in school, that pink is a universal color. It goes with everything. I consider it the new "black". Joyce isn't buying any of that. She tells me that I have an unhealthy obsession and need to let it go. Don't you feel sorry for her? She just can't see that you can never have too much pink in your life.

I have fabulous great nieces who are pinkaholics with me. They are very smart young ladies. Cameron said just today that he will NEVER be a pinkaholic, but he will sometimes wear a pink shirt. I guess I can put up with that. Now I just have to influence Molly. Wish me luck!

Oh yes, check out the book, "Pinkalicioius". You'll love it!

Happy Birthday, BJ

Happy Birthday to my baby sis, Betty Jean! Even though she is working extremely hard on her birthday, I have a feeling she is supremely happy. Her new home is finally ready and they are moving in! She has given some very blatant hints for help, but I have this bad back, you see...................(Ha!)

I could go on & on about Betty Jean, but paybacks hurt so I'll just say, she is a great sister and I can't imagine my life without her!

If you ever get the chance to hear her sing, go for it. It's a treat!

Love you, little sis!

Happy Birthday, Emberly!

Today is my beautiful niece, Emberly's birthday. I always accused her mother of deliberately waiting one day to have her so she wouldn't be born on my birthday! Then to top it all off, she got married one day after our anniversary so the circle was complete!

Emberly is a sweet, intelligent, loving Christian young lady who is married to a minister named Chad. She is such an asset to him. They both have hearts for their Lord. Sadly they just moved way too far away to Elizabethtown, Kentucky. Elizabethtown's gain is our loss!

Dennis and I wish her a very happy birthday. She deserves a fun-filled day with her honey.

Happy 59th Birthday to Me! July 10th!!!

The children at school used to tell me that I was the only teacher in the whole school who would tell them my age. I told them that two times in my life I wasn't sure I would have another birthday so now I joyfully celebrate them. This year I am counting my blessings. They aren't really in order but the ones toward the end are most important to me!

59 Things I Am Thankful For On My 59^th Birthday!

59. Cokes

58. The color “pink”.

57. The “Peanuts” characters, especially Schroeder and Lucy.

56. The fact that even though I have an incurable disease, I feel perfectly well most of the time.

55. My rocking chair on my front porch.

54. Growing up in the ‘50’s and ‘60’s.

53. The loving and caring medical staff at the Fairview Hospital, Bass Baptist Hospital, and Integris Baptist Hospital in OKC.

52. Piano/Organ Duets.

51. Chocolate Sheet Cake.

50. Living in the USA.

49. Small town life.

48. Central air and heat.

47. Christmas!

46. First Baptist Church in El Reno, OK.

45. The “Sooners”!

44. Singing!

43. That I had the chance to teach elementary music at Cornelsen.

42. Reading.

41. Going to the BSU at SWOSU in the ‘70’s.

40. Growing up in El Reno.

39. Mexican food.

38. My favorite shows on television, especially NCIS.

37. Our cute dogs (if they leave me alone).

36. Playing games of all kinds.

35. Having been able to be a stay-at-home mom.

34. Playing the piano.

33. Laughter.

32. My gift of optimism.

31. Children singing with all their hearts.

30. Walking.

29. My new house.

28. Having the chance to go to SWOSU at Weatherford, OK.

27. Flowers, especially “Confetti” lantana.

26. Swimming and diving.

25. Having had the chance to sing in choirs.

24. The Vienna Choir Boys.

23. Getting to be in “The Missionaires”.

22. My sense of humor.

21. My wonderful slate of caring Doctors.

20. All of the wonderful students I have had through the years.

19. The Abbotts and Bisels.

18. That I am still able to accompany the choir.

17. Being blessed with friends.

16. God’s beautiful world.

15. My Church.

14. Retirement.

13. The Seasons.

12. Prayer.

11. All of our extended family.

10. Having my children all in Oklahoma!

9. Dennis’ family!

8. My family, even my sisters!

7. My dear parents who are both still with me!

6. Molly!

5. My precious children and their spouses!

4. Dennis!

3. Experiencing joy.

2. My salvation.
1. The Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.

Happy 234th Birthday, America!

I'd like to salute the men & women who have served in the Armed Forces today. My precious dad served in the Army during World War 2. He was injured twice and is a Purple Heart recipient.

To this day he suffers from his injury. I have never seen him be able to straighten out his arm. He was shot in the elbow. He told me once that Penicillin was invented just in time to save him. He had gangrene in that arm.

When the 4th graders were getting ready to sing for Veterans' Day I always talked to them about how serious we should be. We want to honor these people. Dad is 86 now. I do believe that he would try to defend our country even at this age if the need ever arose.

Thank you to all the heroes who have fought to keep us free!

Happy 40th Birthday, Eric!

Today is our nephew-in-law's 40th birthday! He is a gentle, considerate, hardworking man who deserves all the best in this world.

Regina certainly chose well when picking her husband. He's a great husband and father. They are parenting three of my most favorite people in the world!

Dennis and I wish Eric a very happy birthday.

Being 40 looks good on him!

My Fight With A Barn Swallow!

Last summer a Barn Swallow built a nest above one of the windows on our front porch. They made a terrible mess and dive-bombed me constantly when I tried to sit on my porch. I hated it!

This year they came back, and I was determined that they would NOT build a nest there again. I didn't care if they chose one of our out buildings or a tree, but not on my HOUSE!

It was quite a battle. I actually felt a little sorry for him because he was very dedicated. He would start building, and I would go knock it down. Now, you animal lovers, I'm sorry, but I was "In it to Win it". Finally after about two weeks of this I won. He gave up building the nest. I went all around the house looking to see if he had built it somewhere else, but didn't find it. I had a feeling of satisfaction and told several people about it.

Last week Dennis took me out on the front porch and showed me THIS! The bird had simply moved over one window. I got a great big laugh out of this. I can just imagine that bird smiling about tricking me. Believe me, he had better be making a new plan because next year I'll be watching for this one!!!

2010 Kusch Cousin Reunion

Last weekend we hosted Dennis' cousins. They are a wonderful group, and we had so much fun. The ones who couldn't make it were missed so much. Twelve out of eighteen were there.

One of the funny things about this reunion is that if we don't attend there are NO Kuschs there. That leaves a lot of pressure on Nicholas & Brooke, but we have faith in them!

(Ha!)

Notice our front porch railing. Phillip Kelly and his son finished it just as the cousins were arriving Friday night. We have our rocking chairs all in place, and I am loving sitting out there.

Three Wonderful Dads!

Aaron - This is his first Fathers' Day. As you can see he wasn't upset at getting a daughter. She already loves her daddy so much.

As he starts down the road of surprises, twists, and turns, may he experience joy overflowing. I can't think of a better daddy for our little Molly. He is a loving, thoughtful, hardworking man. She and her mother will never have to worry. Aaron will support and protect them with all his heart.

Dennis - He is a quiet man who loves deeply. You can see that in this picture. Our children and grandchildren are lucky to have him.

Dennis is not afraid to stand tall and firm in his convictions. His conservative views aren't always popular with everyone, but I admire him greatly. He leads by example. His life is led by following those conservative views. A trustworthy man who is honest and faithful describes him perfectly. What a blessing to have him in our family!

Homer - This is my daddy! I have been so fortunate to have the parents I have. Dad came from very poor circumstances to give all of us girls such a great childhood and chance in life.

He is a merry soul and so much fun to be around. At his age of 86 he still works in his yard and garden and chauffers around mom. I do believe that he knows everyone in Canadian County.

We could always count on Dad to be there cheering us on. He loved to drive the church bus to away games. He wanted to go to the games, too. He and Mom sponsored those trips many, many times.

He loves to play games of all kinds. The men play croquet on Sunday get-togethers. We wives have to get on to our husbands for arguing about the rules. They are very competitive! He also loves to play dominoes, and computer games. I get that from him. I love games, too.

Thank you, God, for these three wonderful fathers in our family. Nicholas is a wonderful guy, too. He just hasn't attained fatherhood yet!

Bruce Von Tungeln

I am sad today. I attended the funeral of one of my high school classmates, Bruce Von Tungeln. He was part of my dear class of '69 at El Reno High School.

Everyone who ever knew him thought highly of him. A big smile was always lighting up his face, and he exemplified the word gentleman. His passing is a big loss to the world. I'm sure the whole city of Weatherford is mourning him. He was a Christian man and an example to us all.

My heart is breaking for his wife, Jeanne. They were a great couple.

"Well done, good and faithful servant." You deserve God's heavenly rest.

Nicholas Anthony

I noticed that Nicholas hasn't been mentioned too often in my blog. He is probably glad about that, but I'm not. I decided it was time to talk about him a little. I'm sure you can tell that he is going to kill me for this picture, but it's a risk I'm willing to take because it is Nicholas to perfection, and I love it so much.

Nicholas is a source of joy and laughter to many people. Just listening to him laugh makes you want to join in. He has a merry spirit that I love!

Just to be fair I have included a

couple of other pictures. It is wonderful to see the man Nicholas has become. His beautiful wife, Brooke, is really an asset to him. If you see me running from Nicholas stop and help me out. He is going to get me for this, I'm sure!

Wow! What a night!

Tonight at church my dear friend, Estrella, shared what had been going on in her life the past few years. If you are interested in reading her blog I have listed it on my blog list. It was such an emotional evening that I was completely exhausted when we left. I can only imagine how she felt!

God is really using her in a wonderful way. She absolutely glows. Estrella has always been an outstandingly beautiful woman, but she is even more beautiful now. I thank God for sparing her life and giving her this chance to share with others. She and her husband, Sam, are an inspiration.

Happy Anniversary, Hayley & Aaron!

Twelve years ago tomorrow Hayley and Aaron got married. Where did those years go? They are a great couple and now they have an addition to their family, our precious little Molly. May they be blessed with many more years of happiness!

Much love, Mom

Women Are Angels

I found this quote today and just love it. Enjoy!

"Women are angels...and when someone breaks our wings, we simply continue to fly...on a broomstick, if need be. We are flexible like that!" Unknown

Dr. and Mrs. Taff

I am sad tonight. I just heard that Doris Taff passed away. She was the wife of my Dear Dr. Taff.  Dr. Taff was my voice teacher and mentor in college. Mrs. Taff was always there beside him hosting the Southwestern Singers after concerts and loving us. They were two of the greatest people ever and I miss them!

Olivia

We are thinking today of Regina & Eric's daughter, Olivia. She has an infection in her little toe and has had to have surgery this morning. The pain and swelling have been terrible. We hate it that someone so young has to suffer like this. Hopefully the surgery will be a huge success and she will feel relief immediately.

Keep your chin up, Sweetie, we love you very much and hope to see you soon.

Happy Birthday, Hayley Boofy!

These are two of my favorite pictures of my precious daughter, Hayley. She was born 33 years ago on May 19. My life has never been the same since.

There is no way I can begin to express the essence that is Hayley. During some very difficult high school years she exhibited courage and grace that amazed me. Plus she continued to be joyful and maintain her quirky sense of humor.

Now she has matured into a lovely woman, married a great guy, and given me my darling Molly. She is the birthday girl and I wish her a delightful day. With Aaron and Molly to help her celebrate, I'm sure this will be a birthday like no other.

God bless my precious daughter on her birthday.

Love, Mom

Happy Birthday, Ronnie!

Tomorrow, May 19, is Ron Paulsen’s birthday. For years I have left letters to family members on my computer when we went on trips. In case something happened, I wanted them to know how I felt about them. After my illness in March of 2009 I decided that I should tell them now instead of waiting, so this year I started sending each one a letter on their birthday. Believe me, I get very emotional when I write them. It is impossible to say everything I want to say. I know that probably seems sappy, but I’ve always been a sap so why change now!

One of the best things I ever did in my life was to marry Dennis. Not only is he a wonderful husband, father, and all-round good man, but he also gave me the gift of his family to share. From the very start I felt that I was part of them.

I love Linda like a blood sister. I’ll get to her more in October. Today I want to talk about Ronnie. Not only was he a very handsome man, but he was so good to us. Dennis looked up to him as a role model. He was intelligent and quiet and gave good common sense advice to us all of our lives.

You learned a lot about Ronnie just by watching him. He quietly did what was right all of his life. I don’t know of anyone who didn’t like him. All the qualities that you look for in a person were there to see. Trustworthy just seems to describe him. He also fathered two of my most favorite people in this world!

It was a big loss to our family when he passed away. It still doesn’t seem real to us. Dennis and I feel that we ought to be able to go to Ponca City and see him. It just doesn’t seem possible that he is gone.

May 19 is also Hayley’s birthday. Ronnie told me from the time he heard I was expecting that she was going to be born on his birthday. He was totally right. Sharing a birthday with Ronnie is something Hayley treasures.

Happy Birthday to a wonderful man, my brother-in-law, Ron Paulsen.

Happy Birthday, Sarah!

Happy 7th Birthday to our darling Great Niece, Sarah! Uncle Dennis and I hope she has a wonderful birthday filled with fun. She is a beauty and such a delight! We love her a lot!

Invisible?

I read a book once about a woman who was getting older and started to feel like she was invisible. I think I am beginning to see what she meant.

Some things that I felt were a big part of me seem to be disappearing. I have always delighted in being a musician. It still brings me a great deal of joy, but I see that some parts are becoming a thing of the past. The piano is not a big part of worship services these days. I mainly accompany the choir. (Which by the way, is another thing that I am afraid is about to become a thing of the past!) The piano seems to be on its way out and so does the organ.

All of this had me wondering where do I fit in this world. Then just about the time I was thinking this could get depressing, life took another change. I saw that while the other might be true, I was entering a new phase of life. A certain little bundle of joy named Molly opened my eyes. My new life is GRANDMA FRANCY. Who could possibly think they were becoming invisible when they have grandchildren? If no one else in the world sees us, they do.

I'll be able to sing silly songs to someone new. I have already stolen my sisters' and sister-in-law's grandchildren as my own for years. I can't begin to tell you how precious all of them are. Sorry, Hayley, Aaron, Nicholas, and Brooke. I am hooked on this grandma thing. The more the merrier! Life is great!

Happy Mother's Day, Mom!

Happy Mother's Day to my beautiful mother! Three girls could never have asked for a better one. She taught us to love to read and sewed nearly everything we wore. She passed along her love for music to all three of us.

One of the things that amazes me about her is her gift of hospitality. She has always hosted large groups for holidays or whatever and never seemed to let it bother her. She is a great cook. My friends even remember that about her.

Probably the most important thing she and dad did was take us to church. All three of us realized our need for a personal Savior and asked Jesus to save us. We all three serve in our own churches now.

I could go on and on about her, but my one wish is that I can measure up in some small way to her! I love you, Mom!

Happy Birthday, Molly!

Happy 1-month birthday to our dear, precious Molly!!!!!

Molly's Song

Molly's Song (sung to Mickey Mouse)

Who's the apple of my eye,

My favorite little girl?

M-O-L

L-Y-A

B-B-O-T-T!

Molly Abbott, Molly Abbott,

Forever she will lift my spirits high, high, high, high!

Who's the apple of my eye,

My favorite little girl?

M-O-L

L-Y-A

B-B-O-T-T!

I think I might have a future in song writing. What do you think? Maybe I don't really want to know!

Two Sweeties!

The picture on top is Molly at almost 3 weeks. The lower picture is Hayley at 3 days old. Molly is wearing the same outfit that we brought Hayley home from the hospital in.

Seems like just yesterday!