Days With Granny

2010-10-25T00:38:00.005-05:00

Dear Wonderful Blogger Readers,

I won’t be continuing the blog. To be honest, it’s too painful. It’s hard to watch someone in pain.

I recognize that Alzheimer’s is degenerating, but POW it hits me everytime. Being a caregiver needs a manual. Caregiver 101. I would read the whole thing!

My mom did the best job in the whole world caring for my grandmother who passed away in 2008. Mom, I can’t fill those big shoes. Cathy, same with you and Aunt Margie. How? How did you do it?

Man, tears are streaming down my face.

It is really hard!!

Granny is the sweetest, sweetest woman, but it’s getting painful to write about it.

John and I need your prayers in our relationship.

Continuing to care for sweet Granny.

Love all of you so much.

Thank you for all the love you have shown Granny.

2010-10-23T17:32:00.038-05:00

Granny is still sore and not feeling too well. Here are some pictures of the patient.

Those pictures make me sad.

Here are some happier pictures.

Last weekend we traveled to Georgia to see my family. Remember this post from last year. We went to the fair again this year.

Granny got to take a picture with the ringmaster.

The flash must have been bright. Sorry Granny! J

Look at the girl eyeing Granny’s funnel cake

The family (Dad is eating a Gyro.)

Sweet lady took a picture with Granny.

The night ended in fireworks. We had a great time! Thanks mom and dad. Thanks Jonathan for taking the pictures. We decided to make the fair a family tradition.

Poor Granny

2010-10-21T13:57:00.000-05:00

Poor Granny has been through a lot lately!

She is sleeping now after undergoing dental surgery this morning. The oral surgeon removed her bottom teeth. Her face is swollen and she’s frustrated that she has to talk through a gauze sponge. On top of that, her doctor has put her on full-time oxygen since her last doctor’s visit. Yesterday when the physical and occupational therapists visited, Granny was just plain tired. Each time they asked her to do an exercise; she’d look at them and say, “Do I have to?” She’s a trooper though and did each exercise the number of times they suggested.

I’ll keep you updated.

Shower Power

2010-10-13T21:13:00.003-05:00

The physical therapist, occupational therapist and nurse came out to see Granny today. She practiced her exercises and walking. Poor Granny was exhausted!

The occupational therapist suggested this shower chair for bathing and we ordered it today. Over the past year, I have been giving Granny showers in our bathroom and it has been quite an experience. I put on a swimsuit to bathe her if that gives you any idea. This chair is such a blessing!!!

Yo Gabba Gabba

2010-10-12T19:41:00.006-05:00

Remember this picture?

My precious niece is growing up so fast!! Here’s a picture of Kati and Granny now.

She is eight months old. Granny and I watched her this afternoon while mommy ran errands. My sister-in-law, Jennifer, put on a show called Yo Gabba Gabba and she was intrigued. Here are the pictures of her watching the show.

She laughed and wiggled to the music. It was amazing! I get amazed by stuff like that and even got to the point where I thought, “How much money would you have to pay me to wear an outfit like that and sing and dance like crazy?” With a response like Kati’s it would be well worth it!

Blogworthy pictures

2010-10-11T22:04:00.009-05:00

You might be a redneck

2010-10-09T22:10:00.015-05:00

The phrase “You might be a redneck” keeps coming to my mind as I look at the pictures below. I can hear Jeff Foxworthy saying, “Well, you might be redneck, if you fix your backporch ramp at night with your dog and granny right there beside ya.” The scene was even funnier because of Granny’s comments. At one point she asked, “Did John put a gun up to your head so you would marry him?” Later on, she told our dog, Cassie, “to sic’ em” when John was turned around drilling.

We started the project a little late today so we ended up working into the night. As John constructed the backporch ramp, Granny and I were his ‘Vanna White’ assistants.

Here are the pictures. When the ramp is finished, I post the pictures.

Why are there so many good- looking men in my room?

2010-10-07T13:15:00.003-05:00

I think this question deserves a definite explanation. Granny asked this question about this time last Thursday.

I can write this now because it has taken about a week to get back to normal. Well, our normal.

Those “good-looking men” were helping granny on a stretcher to go to the ER. The doctor confirmed she had a TIA (mini stroke). It took me by surprise because that morning I had taken her to the senior center’s luncheon at the Golden Corral. She had a wonderful time visiting and eating. Her appetite was great because she kept eyeing foods on my plate that had somehow missed her plate.

When we got home, she called my name clearly and after that I didn’t understand anything she said. I associated it with Alzheimer’s, but she kept talking that way so I got John on the phone to listen to her and he said call 911. We live down the road from a fire station so they were at the house within minutes.

The paramedics drove Granny to the Emergency Room, and the doctors and nurses monitored her closely. The doctor wanted to monitor her overnight to watch for any signs of another TIA or stroke.

The sweet nurse rolled her on the stretcher into a nice-sized room, but Granny did not want to be there. At this point, she is attached to oxygen, tied to a heart monitor, pierced with an IV and just “ready to leave.”

However, she had to deal with crazy John and Monique all night. Her potassium was low and her blood pressure was high. Restless!

Let’s just say, Granny had a few choice words for John for having “put her in this situation.” I was in the corner giggling. I know, terrible.

However, the best part came in the morning. By this time, she was READY TO GO! My mother- in –law, Janice, came in and told Granny to eat her grits. Granny didn’t want to eat so Janice fed her each bite. During the feeding, Granny pulled down her gown exposing a little too much and no one could jump up fast enough. It was like slow motion. Janice yanked up the gown and said, “MOM, YOUR GRANDSON IS RIGHT THERE!!! What are you doing?”

Granny just looked at her and said quietly, “I told you I’m ready to go.”

The doctor released her that afternoon and she is doing much better!

Hide-N-Go Seek

2010-09-29T21:03:00.009-05:00

Our dog Cassie is enjoying the cooler weather.

John taught her how to play ‘Hide and Seek’ as a puppy. This morning, we played.

She waits in this position.

I say “Hide!” then I turn around and count.

As I count, she’s off to hide. Boy, is she quick!

Here she is hiding.

I found you.

Mama, pet my tummy.

What is it with dentists and me?

2010-09-26T20:06:00.008-05:00

I am 27 years old and I still get nervous about going to the dentist! Why did they have to put an age limit to getting a prize from the treasure box? At least, that would be an incentive!

To prove how nervous I get, the hygienist took my blood pressure as she does at every six month cleaning and my pulse rate was 128! I noticed the pitch in her voice got higher as she exclaimed, “You need to get that checked out, girlfriend!” My face turned white as I thought, ‘Forget the teeth cleaning, take me to the ER!!’ With these thoughts swimming in my mind, I leaned back into my chair and opened my mouth as the hygienist began her magic. My heart leapt with joy to know I did not have any cavities, but I couldn’t stop thinking about my crazy pulse rate.

Later on, I asked my mom about my pulse rate and she suggested I check it again. Of course, this was after she read a large section from her medical book about hyperactive thyroids and high blood pressure, which made me super nervous! After checking and double-checking, my pulse rate was 82. Wow! I’m okay for another six months!

Speaking of dentists, Granny is going to the oral surgeon tomorrow because her teeth have been causing her pain. Might not make it for that appointment! J John, it’s all yours!

Cake and Ice-cream

2010-09-17T22:31:00.009-05:00

I mentioned in the last post that Tuesday was Granny’s birthday. Today my friends came over for some cake and ice-cream.

Here are some messages my friends wrote for Granny. I printed out cards with each of their pictures so when Granny reads the messages she can see a face with a name. I’m going to put them together in a book for a keepsake.

Here are some pictures and video from the special day.

Granny's Birthday

2010-09-14T23:07:00.005-05:00

Today is Granny’s birthday and our family took her out to eat at a Chinese restaurant. Granny’s favorite!! Here are some pictures of the birthday girl!

Campbell Marie is here!

2010-09-08T22:11:00.002-05:00

Campbell Marie is here! Mom and baby are doing great!

Here is my wonderful friend Lindsey and baby Campbell.

I am so excited about my new ‘niece’ because I’m known as “Aunt MoMo” to my friend’s kids.

Lindsey, I love you and am so thankful Campbell is here.

Crazy about Granny

2010-09-05T11:16:00.003-05:00

Dillon (granny's daughter's cat) loves his Granny Ferguson!!!

Fabulous Hair!

2010-09-01T22:08:00.024-05:00

Why is it that I find a much-needed product AFTER the time that I most needed it?

I am referring to this bottle of Tresemme Fresh start Dry Shampoo. When I went for days without a shower in Africa, this shampoo would have been my BEST FRIEND.

Well, at least I know about it now! Granny and I went shopping with my friend Rivers and she told me about this product. I’m sure some of you knew about it, but I didn’t and was SO excited!!! Rivers is a nurse so she wanted to purchase the shampoo and try it so she could recommend it to bedridden patients.

We got home and I wanted to try the dry shampoo. I told John about it and he scared me by saying I will probably go bald. He then smiled and said, “I’ll be the guinea pig since I’m already going bald.”

When I tried it on John’s hair, it turned his hair white as you can see in the picture. I got the giggles. The rest of the evening looked like a hair salon in the Demas household. I have to say I may not use it again until I am Africa with no water, but it made for a fun evening!!

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Birthday ideas

2010-08-27T22:07:00.001-05:00

Someone’s birthday coming up!

I want to do something very special for Granny this year. I’m asking you for ideas. The more the better!!

Superhero Wife

2010-08-25T15:14:00.005-05:00

This is Alice - aka superhero wife

We stayed with this couple before we traveled to Chivero. They live in the capital of Zimbabwe and are huge supporters of Chivero mission complex. In fact, he travels to Chivero two to three times a week (it is not an easy journey.)

Alice is an amazing woman! If I wrote down everything this lady does, it would take several posts. One lesson she taught me was what it meant to be a superhero wife.

Every morning, she woke up with the rooster and prepared breakfast…and I mean a full course breakfast. Every meal was a full course feast. She taught me how to make several African dishes such as sudsa. Sudsa is a cornmeal-like substance mixed with water cooked over a fire.

After each meal, she washed each dish in boiling water. Once they were washed, she placed each utensil on a metal holder to dry. I am determined to appreciate my dishwasher more.

My washing machine and dryer are also cherished items to me now. Alice took each item of dirty clothes and washed them in water with soap. She scrubbed and scrubbed until they were clean and hung them to dry on a fence.

I came home with a different outlook. There have been many times in our six years of marriage when our full course feast has been À la Chick-fil-A with entertainment À la TV. It has been more than once when John has entered our kitchen and asked about a strange smell. He didn’t smell the sweet aroma of apple pie but instead smoke!

So, I came home thinking we will have sit-down meals at our table without any TV.

Thank you, Alice! You are my inspiration.

Chivero Vacation Bible School

2010-08-24T12:19:00.025-05:00

During our time in Zimbabwe, Africa we stayed at Chivero Mission Complex. It was there that we held a Vacation Bible School. The theme of the VBS was “The Colors of the Gospel.” Here is a link to the website Five Colors. The colors and what they represent are below. I was amazed how these lessons helped break through the language barrier (we still had a translator, though). After each session, the kids completed a craft. One activity was that each kid collected five rocks and painted them the colors of the gospel.

Dark color represents sin.
Red color represents Jesus’ blood.
White color represents Jesus’ resurrection.
Green color represents growing in Christ.
Gold represents heaven.

After their rocks dried, they shared the gospel plan with their families. They also made a gospel bookmark out of black, red, white, green and yellow thread.

It was fun watching the kids get so excited about VBS.

2010-08-18T00:33:00.015-05:00

We had an absolutely wonderful time in Zimbabwe, Africa!!! Thank you for your prayers and thoughts.

I have so much to share that I will have to tell our adventures over several posts. Here is the first post regarding our awesome experience.

We held a Vacation Bible School at Chivero. Chivero is a mission complex in the rural part of Zimbabwe. The ride out to Chivero was a bumpy one, but we got to see several monkeys along the way. Upon arrival, we started making sandwiches for the children coming to VBS. 367 peanut butter and jelly sandwiches! It was like Jesus and the five thousand. We thought we were going to run out of bread, peanut butter, or jelly, but God kept providing. After the Vacation Bible School lessons (I will go into more detail about the lessons on a different post), the kids and the adults gathered around for the peanut butter and jelly sandwiches. I handed out the sandwiches one by one and noticed that the women of the village were staring at me.

“Oh Monica (my African name), you are a good cook. What is inside the bread?”

“Peanut butter and jelly.” This was interpreted in Shona, the native language.

“Oh, it is delicious. Can we have more?”

You would have thought we had given them gold. They were so thankful!!!!

The best part of the story is remembering the children smile at me with their peanut butter and jelly smothered mouths!

2010-07-28T14:16:00.005-05:00

Oh no! No coffee at the center this morning…

But hey…she won Bingo!

Rambling thoughts

2010-07-27T00:10:00.009-05:00

I have to say that my mind is cluttered at the moment. I have become the checklist queen who can’t stop writing checklists. I don’t know why, but I have written out checklist after checklist in regard to this trip and feel like I am not accomplishing everything I want to accomplish. I decided to pray for clarity of mind. Granny looked at me today and just started laughing. I went from one room to another room and just stared in the distance.

She asked, “What do you need?” I responded, “I don’t remember.”

I pack like I’m going to Africa when I go to my parents in Georgia so I feel like this packing experience should be on a MUCH larger scale. Ok, Monique, I told myself, just don’t forget your toothbrush.

In the midst of packing, Granny and I had a little Shona lesson together. Shona is the language of Zimbabwe, Africa. We listened to a cd and repeated phrases back and forth to each other. I don’t know why Granny kept laughing at me. J

And oh yes, I started taking the antimalarial medicine! However….

I made the mistake of reading the side effects! Here is the link.

Mefloquine

Three Musketeers

2010-07-23T17:12:00.006-05:00

The last year I taught at Blount Elementary, I had the privilege of teaching with these two ladies. They are my dear friends and I guess you could say we’re like the three musketeers. Shannon is preparing to teach at a new middle school so Michelle and I went to help her set up her classroom. The school is brand new as I said so everything looked so beautiful. Long corridors, big classrooms, huge courtyard and gym, and even SMARTBOARDS!! I would have loved a smartboard while I was teaching.

We had a fun time grabbing boxes and emptying boxes. While we were unpacking, I said to Shannon, “Can you imagine if I was in the next classroom and Michelle was in the other?” She replied with “I wish. That would be awesome.”

Yeah, but we might get into too much trouble! J

Here we are all dressed as Mrs. Frizzle (you know the crazy- haired teacher from the Magic School Bus books)

Here are some pictures from today.

Africa

2010-07-21T21:14:00.006-05:00

We will be in Zimbabwe, Africa a week from tomorrow!! Wow, how time flies! We have been preparing for the mission trip for over a year now. There has been alot of praying, preparing, planning, and praying.

Our team has been working on Vacation Bible School material. We will be staying in two villages working at the orphanages and hospitals.

Someone asked me what I am looking forward to about the trip and I said hugging the kids. I can’t wait to see their smiling faces!

Please pray for us. Here are some pictures when we went to Africa. We were in Malawi.

(Please Notice the next published post as well)

More fun times with the family

2010-07-21T18:36:00.022-05:00

Here are some pictures from our time with granddad and grandma. They came for the weekend and we took them all around Montgomery and a nearby city Prattville.

Here is a picture of an old cotton mill in Prattville, Alabama. We toured the museum all about the history of Prattville.

Here are some pictures of Old Alabama town. Old Alabama town is an replica of how Montgomery looked in the 1800’s.

I couldn’t let them get away without taking a video of them.

Pickles and Ice-cream

2010-07-12T22:10:00.006-05:00

On Saturday, I helped host a baby shower for my friend Lindsey. The theme of the shower was ‘Pickles and Icecream.’ I am so excited about baby Campbell’s arrival!

Here are some pictures that my friend Rivers took during the shower.

A Year

2010-07-09T02:27:00.004-05:00

Wow!

It is hard to believe that Granny has lived with us now for a year!

What an adventurous and wonderful experience.

I have to say that I have one of the best jobs in the world. Being a caregiver is tough and rewarding. John and I knew that our lives would change, but having the support of others has made the transition easy. It has truly been amazing. Thanks everybody for reading the blog and leaving comments. Granny enjoys when I read them to her.

Here is a slideshow of the past year.

(The music is from Anouk and played by Youtube’s MissElle1182)

Happy 4th of July!

2010-07-05T00:25:00.005-05:00

Hope all of you had a wonderful day.

This is the first time in our marriage that we have been in Montgomery during Fourth of July.Usually during this week, John and I are traveling somewhere for our anniversary. Six years!!!!

It has definitely been a joy to be with my best friend on our journey through life together. What a journey it has been so far!!! I have some pictures of our journey so far and look forward to creating more pictures. Here are a few.

Wedding in Malawi, Africa

Wedding in Auburn, Alabama

Back in Malawi, Africa Anniversary

Chattanooga, TN Anniversary

Washington, DC Anniversary

England Anniversary

John is an absolutely wonderful man who is an answer to my prayers.

I remember the night my dad met John. Dad came up to me and asked, “So when are you going to marry him?”

On another note, tonight we drove downtown to see if we could see any fireworks. We witnessed the end of the show on top of the parking deck. I recorded a video of Granny while we were watching the fireworks.

2010-06-29T23:26:00.000-05:00

Here are six things I learned from my Grandma

Her mom was a missionary to India during the early 20th century.
Her mom also met Gandhi.
Every Christmas, her dad helped the postman (mailman) deliver the packages so the mailman could spend time with his family.
Her dad put sixpences in envelopes and gave them to poor families on Christmas Eve.
Her family kept and fed soldiers during the war.
Her grandfather wired the electricity for their Welsh village.

Happenings

2010-06-29T22:14:00.096-05:00

Glamourous is the word that comes to mind! Here's Granny after getting her hair done.

This is our last day in Georgia and we had a great time. I plan on videotaping Grandad and Grandma tomorrow before we leave. Got to get those accents on tape! I am determined to have at least one of my kids speak with a British accent. :)

We had a lovely day today. My grandma describes things as being lovely so I thought I would use that word. This morning, we went out to a peach orchard and packing company. After our fun visit, we enjoyed some peach icecream. After we got home, mom made a delicious dinner and friends and family came over.

2010-06-28T22:23:00.005-05:00

We’ve been busy trying to get Granny out of here...

Actually, we had a fun tour of downtown Byron, where my parents live. We visited the old jail and train depot. On Saturday morning, we got up early and walked around the Farmer and Artisan Market. Of course, we purchased some yummy fruits and vegetables (Granny tried to use her voucher!) It was hot that day, but my grandparents from England were loving it. They said they left the rain and wanted sunshine while they are here.

I have had a wonderful time visiting with them. We don’t get to see each other very often so it is a treat. I love their accents and just sit and listen to them. Granny has enjoyed talking with grandma. Their conservations are sort of amusing. The other day I walked into the room and they were discussing their former boyfriends. Here is how the conversation went...

Grandma: Oh those were the days.....

Granny: Oh yes, I had a British boyfriend.

Grandma: Did you like him alot?

Granny: Well, yes, but he left to go off to the war and haven’t heard from him since.

Grandma: Oh, I had three boyfriends at the same time. If I was with one, I had to hide from the others.

Granny: Those were the days....

So to say the least, it has been interesting!

I have had my share of Cadbury chocolate so I’m a happy camper!

The British are Coming!!

2010-06-25T12:59:00.004-05:00

Yipee!

My grandparents from England have landed on American soil. Granny and I are headed to Georgia today to see them. Our plans are to visit, visit, and visit over tea, biscuits, and chocolate! While there, Granny is also getting her “hair did” thanks to Pat Price!

Is It Worth It?

2010-06-11T21:21:00.006-05:00

What a morning!! How long would you stay in line for something free?

One, two, maybe three hours………..

The senior center sponsored an event that took place at the Farmer’s Market today. Everyone 65 and older in Montgomery had the opportunity to get a $30 voucher for fresh fruits and vegetables.

Couldn’t pass up that offer so….

Granny, her friend Valerie, and I arrived at Farmer’s Market at 8:00. We were thinking that we were early for the voucher, but we thought wrong. There were already 501 senior citizens ahead of us in line. Granny’s number was 502 and Valerie’s number was 503. When we were situated in line, the announcer was up to number 14.

Granny looked up at me and said, “We have a LONG way to go….”

However, the time went by quickly because we visited with everybody around us in line.

When 9:30 rolled around, I heard people say, “Is it worth it? I think I’ll just go home.”

I started questioning whether we should go, but then I saw someone’s number. It was 1053. Ok. We don’t have that long…

Was it worth it?

TOTALLY!

Look at that smile….

Inside the bag are squash, tomatoes, and peaches. Tomorrow we are going back to get some okra and cucumbers. Yummy!

Afterwards, we ate at State Farmer Market Café. It was delicious!!! Can’t beat a meat and two veggies.

Enjoying the Little Things

2010-06-08T22:50:00.009-05:00

If I could sum up today in a quote it would be…

Enjoy the little things, for one day you may look back and realize they were the big things – Robert Brault

2010-06-06T21:56:00.013-05:00

I love when Granny does something that makes my ENTIRE day!

Here is an example.

This afternoon she ate some Italian ice in her comfy chair while wearing her new beach hat. Why can’t I be more like that?

She wore it for the rest of the afternoon and I took some snapshots.

Girls just want to have fun!

2010-06-05T23:36:00.005-05:00

Summer can’t come soon enough! Anyone want to go on a beach trip with us?

(Granny purchased the beach hat at the shop today)

Arkansas

2010-06-02T20:44:00.020-05:00

It’s been a long time since I have been in the Razorback State! I lived there when I was little and last visited Arkansas in 1997. For Memorial Day weekend, my family traveled there for my cousin’s graduation.

Here are some pictures of us at the state line.

Lot of family came so we stayed here at ‘The Fountains.’

It is a beautiful, renovated plantation home! Check out the website to see the renovation of the old plantation house. http://www.charlesgrahamministry.com/slideshow/thefountains.html

I don’t know if any of you have ever played clue, but the layout of the house was similar to the rooms in the game.

My cousin ’s family owns an Amish and Country store. We have plenty of Amish cheeses, jams, and syrup now!! Yummy!

Here are some pictures of the store.

My Sweet Niece

2010-05-26T21:54:00.019-05:00

My sweet niece, Alexis graduated from 2^nd grade! The school had an awards ceremony and Alexis did extremely well this year. Before the ceremony, her class had a little brunch while the teacher passed out awards to her students. Alexis received ‘all American girl.’ It was wonderful watching her smile from ear to ear.

Here is a picture of Granny and Alexis.

I got her the dress she is wearing. It is awesome being an aunt cause you can spoil, spoil, spoil!!

So proud of Alexis!

Morning with Granny

2010-05-21T23:37:00.002-05:00

On the road again

2010-05-20T00:52:00.004-05:00

John is jealous of one man in this world….. Drumroll please…..Willie Nelson. I love Willie Nelson!!! The title of this post made me think of him with his braids and country voice…..…... ok, back to reality.

There has been alot of traveling going on around here lately. Well, on my part! It seems like I have traveled more this month than this whole year combined. I have been to Gulf Shores with my girlfriends, Georgia for Mother’s Day, Texas for my great aunt’s funeral, and going to Arkansas for my cousin’s graduation on Memorial weekend. All in the month of May!

When I returned home from Texas, Granny looked at me sternly and said, “You are not allowed to go anywhere else for the rest of your life!” She then started giggling.

It’s nice to be needed.

Scuppernong Jelly

2010-05-09T22:06:00.012-05:00

Happy Mother’s Day to all mothers out there!

Granny, my sister, and I traveled to Georgia to be with my mom on Mother’s Day. We had a wonderful weekend! Some of the activities included Granny getting a perm and making SCUPPERNONG JELLY. I had never heard of a scuppernong before but our family friend, Joyce, informed me it was a member of the grape family. She also helped me with the pronunciation! (John said he always called them suscadines, they are giant muscadines.)

Here is a picture of us after we finished making the jelly. I wasn’t sure if I would like it, but it was delicious!

Joyce gave me the recipe for the jelly so I thought I would share (in case you feel scuppernongish one day and want some!!!) It makes 8 cups (4 pints).

Wash scuppernongs and put in large boiler.
Fill the boiler halfway with water.
Boil 15 minutes.
Strain through metal colander.
Use potato masher to press remaining juice out.
4 cups juice
1/2 box surejell
6 ½ cups of sugar
Mix surejell with juice and bring to a boil.
Add sugar and stir constantly (she wasn’t joking about the stirring)
Once it boils, keep stirring and boil for 2 minutes.
Remove from heat
Remove skim formed on top
Sterilize jars
Pour the liquid into the jars and seal.

Doesn’t Granny’s hair look great?

Why?

2010-05-02T21:51:00.001-05:00

This question intrigues me as I watch the movie ‘Blindside.’

In the scene to which I am referring, Michael Oher is asking this question his adoptive mother. He wants to know her motive behind what she is doing and why she took him into her family. In the following scene, she questions her motives and desires, but knows deep down in her heart she has done the right thing.

I cannot tell you how that one little question in the movie made my mind race.

Why? Why do we do what we do? What are the motives behind our actions?

It always amazes me regarding the number of people (mostly strangers) who will come up to me and ask me that same question.

Why? Why do you do what you do?

I remember when I was helping Granny into her wheelchair when a man asked me what I was doing and why. I simply replied, “She’s my granny.”

He then said, “Well, the world would be a better place if we had more grandmothers and granddaughters spending time together.”

The purpose of what I do is this- God has called me to this purpose. Why? I don’t know. I DO know though that at this moment in my life, God has blessed me with Granny. What amazes me even more is that I DID NOT even know Granny six years ago, but now she is my dear companion.

New Ride and Henry IV

2010-04-26T21:10:00.004-05:00

I want to begin this post by showing you a picture of Granny’s new ride. I can easily throw this lightweight wheelchair into the trunk of my car and we zoom down the road. Throw? I sound like I have the muscles of Tarzan. J

On another note, I had a very entertaining conversation with my British grandparents the other day. Whenever I talk to them, I enjoy listening to their accents. Grandad was born in Wigan, England and Grandma was born in Llangollen, Wales.

Our conversation turned to our family history. According to their research on my grandad’s side, I am related to John of Gaunt who was the father of this man.

(Henry IV)

I became very excited to find out this information (WHY? I don’t know, Henry IV could have beheaded people for crying out loud!)

I couldn’t wait to tell John!

He wasn’t excited at all. For some reason, I pictured us jumping up and down when he heard, but it didn’t go that way. He said, “Ok, good to know. Don’t know why that is good to know, but good to know.”

I became deflated and all I could think was, ‘Off with his head!’ Terrible, I know.

So… since I have a teaspoon of British royal blood, I thought I would treat myself to some icecream. Oh wait…

“John, are you busy? ”

Always An Adventure

2010-04-15T18:05:00.006-05:00

Granny and I are always having some sort of adventure. We were driving along yesterday doing some errands and the van overheated on a busy bypass. I turned onto a side road to let the vehicle cool down. I turned to look at Granny and she started giggling about the situation. Well, then, I started giggling.

It was like the time she fell on top of me on the pathway to our house. She fell and I started crying hysterically because I thought for sure she had broken her hip. I asked her if she was all right and she started giggling. She said, “This is kinda awkward.” That is all it took and I started giggling. Good thing John is around.

On a side note, my student made this poster in tutoring today. He is learning bar graphs and he has been collecting data this week for the bar graph. He wanted me to take a picture of it.

Field Trip (Need I say more?)

2010-04-13T20:01:00.004-05:00

I have mentioned in another post that Granny goes to a Senior Center on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday mornings. Occasionally the center activities take place at a different location. Granny and I call this a “field trip.” Today’s events took place at John Knox Manor Retirement Center. This morning, Granny was so excited about going on the “field trip” that she woke up at 5:00. She glided down the hallway with her walker fully dressed and said, “Come Moneeka (my nickname), wake up, it’s 9:10 and we have to pick up Valerie.”

9:10?!?!

I got worried for a second because I had offered to pick up Granny’s friend, Valerie, at 8:50.

There was no way it was 9:10! I looked at my cell phone for the time and it said 5:00. I tried to get away with saying, “five more minutes,” but it didn’t work. She reminded me it was 9:10, and I couldn’t figure out why she kept saying that, until I saw the watch on her arm. It did say 9:10, but it had been 9:10 for the past month. I told her that her watch’s battery was dead, but she wouldn’t hear it.

It didn’t take long to get ready because Granny had already applied her lipstick. (Ladies and Gentlemen, that is ALWAYS Granny’s last step in getting ready so I was WAY behind!:) ) As I got her into the van, she reminded me it was 9:10 and we were running late. When we arrived to pick up Granny’s friend, Granny looked at Valerie and said, “I know it is 9:10 and we are running late, but you will have to blame Moneeka.” Hey, at least, we were early which doesn’t happen very often! J

Gift From My Mom

2010-04-06T18:07:00.009-05:00

On this joyous of all days, my birthday, I wanted to write this blog about a special gift my mom gave me.

My mom sewed me a patchwork purse. The patches represent articles of clothing that belonged to my grandparents. My granddad and grandma both passed away in 2008.

When I see the remnant of the white shirt with stripes, I reminisce to Sundays when my grandfather wore it to church.

Here is a picture of him in that shirt.

I reflect on the remnant of my grandmother’s robe. Every morning, she drank coffee in that robe. Even when we got her a new one, she still wore her “old robe.”

Here is a picture of her wearing her robe.

Each year, my mom really puts a lot of thought behind the gifts she gives me and this one exceeds them all. It means so much.

2010-03-31T10:32:00.003-05:00

Sometimes a picture is worth a thousand words......

Did the birds not get the memo?

2010-03-30T00:53:00.005-05:00

I took this picture at the park today.

Wedding

2010-03-28T20:03:00.005-05:00

My sister-in-law got married on Friday. Here are some pictures from the wedding.

The happy couple

Family

Three musketeers

Kissing the bride

Me holding a baby (I do that whenever I get a chance!) J

“Gift of Sweetness”

2010-03-24T22:08:00.005-05:00

Granny received this “Gift of Sweetness” as she called it.

A lady from church put the basket together and came over today to give it to Granny. She visited with granny for an hour.

Another picture of a pretty granny

2010-03-22T00:38:00.005-05:00

My mother-in-law bought this headband for Granny. Pretty lady!!!

Now she is ready for going out on the town!

Some eventful happenings….

2010-03-17T20:36:00.004-05:00

I was trying to think of the best way to write a blog about the EVENTFUL week I had experienced, but thought it best to write it like a Top Ten List, 10 being the least eventful and 1 most eventful.

10. Talking to our plumber about our plumbing problems at 8:00 am while our dog wouldn’t stop barking at him (why, oh, why)

9. Watching a comedy show with my brother-in-law and Granny on Friday evening

8. Daffodils are in bloom! Mine were the last ones in the neighborhood.

7. Getting my haircut and finding out the next day that my hairdresser has her job for a reason. It doesn’t style right when I do it!

6. Watching Granny show off her lifting chair to company and giggling as she does it.

5. Wearing a crazy hat to Bunko. The theme was ‘Mad Hatter’

4. Taking my sick cousin from Texas to Prime-Med to find she had strep throat

3. Having a cooking night with my friend (she made a dish and I made a dish) and then we ate dinner. Granny ate with us and her plate was clean!

2. Having my aunt, uncle, cousin, and great uncle come all the way from Texas to visit

1. THE MOST EVENTFUL…… My sister, aunt, and I went shopping at a nearby outdoor mall. My sister decided she wanted to purchase a leather jacket. She asked the store clerk if she could get it for a cheaper price and they told her 30% off the regular price. However, she would have to wait until the next week to pick up the jacket. (Why, I don’t know) My sister went ahead and made the purchase knowing she would be in town on Thursday.

Less than five minutes later, fire engines drove up to put out a fire at the SAME STORE my sister had just purchased the jacket. No one was hurt, but my sister is still in shock.

How bizarre!

Reflections

2010-03-12T09:05:00.001-06:00

Usually the first question people ask me is, “How’s Granny?” Granny didn’t go to the Senior Center a couple days this week and her friend from the center, called me EARLY one morning and asked, “How’s Granny?”

It goes to show what an amazing impact this sweet lady has on people. Granny is a very likable person. I tell her that she is “Miss Popular” when her phone rings off the hook in the evening. She will look at me with a smile and say, “I know…. it’s hard to be this popular.”

For this past 8 months, I am been so enriched by Granny. She reminds me every day that when I am 85, I don’t have to be bitter, grouchy, or just plain mean. For example, the other day I was curling her hair with a curling iron and I burnt the top of her forehead. Granny calmly looked up at me and said, “You’re burning my head, you know,” and then she started giggling.

Life is way too short to be bitter, grouchy, or just plain mean. Take it from Granny who has ALOT she could be bitter, grouchy, or just plain mean about in life!

Birthday Wishes

2010-03-09T21:16:00.007-06:00

My baby brother is 16 years old today!

I was ten when he came into the world. I remember my granddad picking my sister and me up from school and telling us that our little baby brother was on his way. This past weekend, we celebrated his birthday with him. In the morning, we had a birthday breakfast and passed out gifts. Later on that day, he enjoyed a piece of his birthday cake.

Because my brother loves trivia, here are some events that happened in 1994.

Tony Blair is declared the winner of the leadership election of the British Labour.

Nancy Kerrigan is clubbed on the right leg by an assailant under orders from figure skating rival Tonya Harding.

President of the United States Bill Clinton and Russian President Boris Yeltsin sign the Kremlin accords which stop the preprogrammed aiming of nuclear missiles to targets and also provide for the dismantling of the nuclear arsenal in Ukraine.

The Church of England ordains its first female priests.

Nelson Mandela is inaugurated as South Africa's first black president.

http://www.spiritus-temporis.com/09-march-1994/

Here is Mark

Fun Day

2010-03-04T19:46:00.006-06:00

I had a wonderful time hosting girl’s lunch today. I mentioned before that my girlfriends and I take turns meeting together for lunch once a week at each other’s houses. Granny relaxed in her new lifting chair and we visited in the living room. Granny enjoyed watching the two little one-year-old boys playing together.

Here are some pictures.

On another note, my mom and dad are coming tomorrow so I am looking forward to seeing them. The following weekend, my aunt and uncle are coming all the way from Texas. We can’t wait!

(-; THIS IS MY 50th BLOG POST ;-)

Granny's Dream Man

2010-03-02T21:23:00.002-06:00

Growing up, I remember that my grandma’s dream men were Robert Redford and Paul Newman .

She reminded me whenever they appeared on the screen.

Well, today Granny informed me that this is her dream man.

She told me, “I want to go on a date with that fellow whenever he is available. I am not available because I am so busy. Awwwww forget it; he is old enough to be my son.”

Granny, I love you.

We are FINISHED! (98% finished according to John)

2010-02-28T21:20:00.006-06:00

After much sweat and tears (tears because I hit my finger with a hammer), we have finished remodeling our living room! John and I had a great bonding experience. He worked and I was his assistant. I have to say I don’t want to paint again for awhile! OCD starts kicking in too much!! John would be finished with half the wall and I was still on one corner of the room. J However the corners of the room look REALLY good if I say so myself.

We were going to have to wait several months to get our furniture. However, it is a blessing because we got every piece of furniture last Friday. John and I walked into the clearance center of a furniture store JUST TO LOOK and left having purchased our living room furniture. The first piece of furniture we saw was a lifting chair. We have wanted a lifting chair for Granny for a long time. It was the perfect color and on sale.

In the pictures, it is the procession of the living room. New curtains will come later.

Doesn’t Granny look comfy?

In the Park

2010-02-22T22:26:00.074-06:00

New Arrival

2010-02-20T22:04:00.006-06:00

Granny has a new great-grandbaby, and John and I have a new niece! Her name is Katherine Iris. She was born yesterday. I took Granny to the hospital and we both held the precious girl. Granny said as we left the hospital, “I may sound bias, but our family sure does make pretty babies.”

Here are the pictures.

Katherine.

Her Daddy

Her Mommy

Granny and Katherine

John and Katherine

Cafe Latte

2010-02-18T21:22:00.006-06:00

When we purchased our home in September 2007, John told me he was excited about our home because it was a “great fixer-upper.” Well, we have finally started to remodel our living room and I am very excited!

The whole process began last weekend when we walked through Home Depot looking for the right paint color. Granny helped us pick out the paint and we ended up purchasing Café Latte.

I was on the phone with my sister and mentioned we were painting our living room Café Latte and she said she needed a Starbucks! J

Here are some pictures of us working (most of them are of John working! J) I think John and I should start a remodeling home business.

Snow!!!

2010-02-17T17:28:00.008-06:00

I am still in shock. It actually snowed and it was way past three inches! :)

Here are some pictures of us having a fun time in the snow.

Granny looking out the window at the snow.

Our dog playing in the snow. She was scared of the snow, at first.

Here is a picture of my hubby throwing snowballs at me while only wearing his t-shirt and jeans!

I threw some right back at him and he said it felt like being hit by a baseball! I guess I compacted the snow too much. HeeHee!

I hope that it snows again next year. It was wonderful!

Upcoming blog…. We are remodeling our home. We started in the living room.

Snow in Alabama….. Are you joshing?

2010-02-11T21:34:00.002-06:00

Alabama is known as the “Heart of Dixie.” Montgomery is the capital. The state tree is Longleaf Pine and the state flower is the Camellia. These are some of the facts my fourth graders learned when I taught Alabama History.

HOWEVER, snow is a foreign thing when it comes to Alabamian winters.

If I talked about snow to my fourth graders, they would at me as if I was talking about some foreign substance. Some of them had never even seen snow.

You may be asking, why am I on a kick about snow. Well, because our local weatherman said there may be up to 3-4 inches of snow tomorrow.

As most of you know, I tutor and the children come for tutoring after school. Well, today, my third grader came to tutoring with materials needed to study for a math test.

Before knowing that all of Montgomery School Systems would be closed tomorrow, my third grader and I worked (sweated) over the concept of elapsed time.

Elapsed Time!!!

He could not wrap his head around elapsed time. This is a concept that is difficult for adults, not to mention kids!

We worked with manipulatives including a laminated paper clock with moving hands and an elapsed time line. All of the sudden his face brightened and it looked like a light bulb lit up above his head. He got it!!!!!!!!

…………And he won’t have his test tomorrow now! It will be next Tuesday! Hope he remembers everything.

Oh well, he will be playing in some foreign substance tomorrow that will excite him much more than making a good grade on a math test.

Y’all it’s going to snow in Alabama tomorrow!!!!!

Prolific Blogger Award

2010-02-11T21:09:00.003-06:00

Thank you, Andrea and Sitka, for the Prolific Blogger Award. Please visit Andrea’s blogs.

Arise2Write

All Gods Creatures

I would like to pass on the award to Babbling Baggs, Motherhood On A Mission, Vest Fest, Isanin, Granny's Baby Blog.

Blah

2010-02-08T22:45:00.004-06:00

The couch, a blanket, a pillow, and SLEEP have been my friends during this weekend. I'm sick with the flu.

Dear Madam

2010-02-03T21:07:00.004-06:00

"Dear Madam,

You are not acting very ladylike. Do you hear me?”

This is how Granny addresses our cat, Amaya, when she is stretching out on the floor as the picture displays.

Amaya doesn’t mind very well.

Whatta Man

2010-02-02T18:59:00.006-06:00

I got a mighty good man!

As my last kid was leaving from tutoring today, my wonderful hubby went into the kitchen and started making dinner. Here he is at the stove.

Don’t you just love his blue apron?

Here is another picture of Granny. I thought she looked so pretty. I told her to watch out for those men!

New Perm

2010-01-30T22:00:00.003-06:00

Granny got a new perm! Here is a picture.

Granny’s hairdresser, Pat, is a wonderful lady. Pat’s mom is suffering with Alzheimer’s so she is great with Granny.

She says, “You just sit right here in your wheelchair and I will work on your hair, sweetheart.”

Here is another picture that has nothing to do with a perm. My sister bought a yoga DVD for my mom at Christmas. My sister, brother, and I decided to do some yoga exercises from the DVD and my other brother (who refused to do it) snapped this shot. J JJ

A HAPPY LIST

2010-01-26T22:07:00.002-06:00

A HAPPY LIST

Here are some recent events that have made me happy.

My husband, John, taking me on a picnic
We are going to Zimbabwe, Africa this summer to work with the precious orphans.
Granny has given me a new name, Mo-nee-ka, which makes me smile each time I hear it.
The third grader I tutor made the A/B Honor Roll!
I found a ‘Just to say I love you’ card in my drawer from my grandma who passed away last year that I had never opened!
The cool, windy weather this past weekend reminded me of England.
Because of the above comment, I watched a Jane Austen movie on Saturday.
Watching Granny flip through her photo calendar and photo albums of her grandchildren
Our dog, Cassie, is obeying me (she always obeys John, but I spoil her)
Hearing Granny say, “I’m glad John met you.”

Sweet Baby Haize

2010-01-22T23:52:00.004-06:00

My wonderful friend, Hope, gave birth to her sweet baby boy John Haize yesterday morning. He weighed 8 lbs. 2 oz. and was 21 inches long. Haize is SO cute!!!!

I went to the hospital yesterday and took Granny this morning. Mommy and baby are doing fine. I held Haize and couldn’t stop looking into his precious eyes. Here are the pictures.

Food, fellowship, and………..Bingo

2010-01-20T22:15:00.003-06:00

I mentioned in another post that I signed Granny up for activities at a nearby senior center. The activities last from 9:00 to 12:00. Twenty-one seniors attend the center’s activities. Today was the first time for Granny to play Bingo with the other seniors. This morning, Granny did not want to wake up, but as soon as I said the word ‘Bingo’, she sat up and was ready to go. When we arrived, the seniors were playing dominoes. I rolled Granny to a table where she visited with her new friend Valerie. Valerie is 91 years old and has a great personality. She has an active mind and good sense of humor. Granny and Valerie are like two peas in a pod. At 10:20, they passed out the Bingo cards and called the numbers. Granny yelled bingo and won a prize! Granny and her bingo fingers.

At 11:30, we had lunch. The lunch was surprisingly good. For $1.50, Granny ate turnip greens, cornbread, macaroni, black-eyed peas, and marble cake. They were generous with the portions as well. As we were finishing lunch and getting ready to leave, Granny said to me, “This was fun! You need to go ahead and become a senior citizen!”

Off to FLORIDA!

2010-01-18T22:21:00.003-06:00

Granny, John, our dog, and I piled in the Ford Explorer to travel to Jacksonville, Florida this weekend. We traveled there to see Granny’s daughter Kim, her grandson Christopher, her granddaughter-in-law Teresa, and her great-grandbaby Carter. We had a great time visiting. Carter is quite the entertainer.

He is two years old and his favorite movie is the ‘Wizard of Oz’, which he has seen several times. When Kim, his grandma pointed to the movie and said, “Look Carter, the Scarecrow wants courage,” Carter corrected her by saying, “No…. he wants a brain!” Granny enjoyed being with Carter and she particularly enjoyed asking for his ‘smooches’. We took pictures and here they are.

Our past few days in a nutshell...

2010-01-12T20:35:00.005-06:00

I want to start this blog with some exciting news! One evening, I was searching on the internet for activities for seniors living in our area. I came across a senior center at Perry Hill United Methodist Church. We live on Perry Hill Road so it worked out perfectly! Yesterday, Granny and I went over to the center and met a kind lady who gave us an application form. She printed us a schedule of daily activities from 9:00 to 12:00.

Here is the schedule:

Monday- Speakers

Tuesday- Exercises (Granny IS NOT super excited about this! I am, because it will be like her physical therapy)

Wednesday- Bingo (Granny IS super excited about this!)

Thursday- Exercises

Friday- Varies

I am going to be with Granny during these events because there are programs for caregivers as well. I am eager to learn more about being a caregiver. We will start attending events on Friday after I turn the application into the office. The only objection Granny had was and I do quote, “I’m too young to hang out with all them old people.” J

Pictures will be coming.

Today, Granny and I went to a ladies’ class at church which will be every Tuesday morning for several months. Afterwards we went to Panera Bread to eat lunch. Here is a picture.

Another note: I helped host for my sister-in-law Jennifer’s baby shower on Sunday. When I get the pictures from Jennifer, I will post a blog and the pictures. Here are two pictures to wet your appetite. J

Granny and Her Babies

2010-01-10T00:06:00.002-06:00

Granny loves her babies! My friend will be having a baby this month and my sister-in-law Jennifer will be having a baby in February. Granny is proud to announce that Jennifer is the baby maker in the family. Whenever she says this statement, she looks at me and says, “It’s about time that you and John have a baby, don’t you think?” I chuckle and remind her that I would have a baby tomorrow! She then tells me if Wal-mart sold babies, I would have hundreds of them!

Until our newborns arrive, Granny is content to love on her great grandbaby Jake and my friend’s one year old. Granny is great with babies and they love her. My friend and her one year old were over the other day and Granny played with him for hours. She kept saying, “What does a dog say?” He would reply, “Woof!” I wish I had put it on video.

I conclude by saying the phrase Granny says to me, “I waited ten years to have my first and if I had had it my way I would have had hundreds of babies. ..But I really like the four I had!”

Graduation Day

2010-01-08T19:40:00.002-06:00

Congrats to Granny! She just finished her last day of physical therapy! The therapist explained that she had IMPROVED so much physically since last year that they are discharging her for now. Of course, he did say that if she started declining they would return. Granny and I are very excited about the news! I wish you could have heard her talking to the physical therapist. She said, “Can you believe you are losing your favorite patient? I will miss you therapists coming over. You will just have to stop by just for fun to see us.”

I asked the therapist if I could take a picture of him and Granny. Here is the picture.

Out to Old Selma Road

2010-01-04T21:14:00.005-06:00

Once Granny’s hair was curled and her nose powered, we headed to Aunt Mildred’s house. Aunt Mildred is Granny’s favorite aunt. I wrote about Aunt Mildred a few months ago in the blog.

Today’s visit was no different. It was an afternoon full of laughs. As we arrived, Aunt Mildred was waiting at her front door. Granny entered her house with the same introduction she did last visit. “Here’s my favorite aunt and here’s your favorite niece.”

After we visited a little while, Aunt Mildred brought out her Christmas presents. One of her gifts was a Snuggie. She wanted to pose for a picture in her Snuggie and here is the picture.

Before we left, the aunt and niece posed for some more pictures. It is so enjoyable to go see Aunt Mildred.

Happy New Year

2009-12-31T19:50:00.001-06:00

Lunch at The Farmer's Market Cafe

2009-12-31T19:48:00.002-06:00

On Tuesday, Granny and I ate lunch with Stacy at Farmer’s Market in downtown Montgomery. Granny woke up extra early and was excited about going out to eat. Farmer’s Market is a type of restaurant that serves a meat and two vegetables. Granny enjoyed eating her fried chicken, cabbage, and lima beans. We had a nice visit with Stacy. When we left Granny said, “I had a good time. We will definitely have to do that again.”

Granny did not even ask why Jake did not come which should make you feel good, Stacy. J Jake is Granny’s cute great grandbaby.

Here is a picture of Granny and Stacy.

2009-12-30T23:26:00.004-06:00

Granny and I ate lunch with my sister, Leigh, at Chappy’s Deli. My sister bought us Chappy’s Deli 20^th anniversary t-shirts. When we returned home, we posed in our t-shirts. Here are the pictures.

Leigh stayed with Granny while John and I went on a date. J

Christmas Day 2009

2009-12-30T23:24:00.001-06:00

In case you wondered, Santa DID come by our house and Granny received what she wanted for Christmas. She treasures each gift. I know this because she takes her gifts out one by one and admires them.

Granny, John, and I woke up early on Christmas morning and opened our gifts. After we opened our gifts, we drove over to my mother-in-law’s where we enjoyed Christmas lunch. My parents came in the evening and we sang ‘Happy Birthday’ to my mom.

Granny says she cannot get enough of the pumpkin pie. She finished off the last piece yesterday.

Granny's Night Before Christmas

2009-12-24T18:34:00.006-06:00

'Twas the night before Christmas, for Granny, you know.

Up and down all night waiting for Santa and snow.

Asleep in his bed, was John all the nightlong,

Dreaming of how the work computers went wrong.

All stockings are placed for John, Granny, and me,

Close to the presents under the bright Christmas tree,

When all of a sudden, from on top of the roof,

There came such a ruckus, it made our dog woof.

Granny sprang from the chair from such a bad fright,

I ran to the door to catch the thief, I might

Granny grabbed her walker and yelled from the front door,

“Get away, you person, and don’t impose anymore.”

When all of a sudden, but what shall appear,

But a little, white sleigh and eight cute reindeer

Granny questioned the driver about once, twice, and thrice

Before entering our house he had better be nice.

Since there is no chimney, he swung through the door

Bringing the dirt onto our cleaned, polished floor

“Who may I ask are you in the red?”

Granny declared as she turned her head.

He did not speak, but went rather to work

Granny, all curious, her gifts she looked

“Are those all for me? I’ve been a good girl!”

“Did you happen to know I wanted pearls?”

Granny continued with a chuckle and said,

“Why is my John getting coal under his bed?”

I told him all year to be a real good boy

Next year he will listen and might get a toy!”

Santa sprang to his sleigh and put on Rudolph’s collar

“See you next year. You folks give a holler,

Merry Christmas to all and to all a Good night!”

Christmas Lights

2009-12-18T23:48:00.002-06:00

John drove Granny and me around town to look at Christmas lights. We came across this house. All I could say was “WOW!”

Watch the video.

Granny's Memories of Christmas Day

2009-12-16T22:29:00.006-06:00

Last night, I couldn’t sleep so I came into John and Monique’s cold living room. I thought, ‘Gee Whiz! I used to have to get up in my grandmother’s cold house and make a fire in the pot-bellied stove.’ I wanted someone else to do it. Even on Christmas morning, I had to start the fire in the pot- bellied stove. I still enjoyed Christmas morning because I thought Santa was going to bring me a lot of stuff. I always got a china doll because I loved dolls. Mama used to have big Christmas dinners. She made three or four cakes- chocolate, coconut, and a lane cake. We played with our dolls all day long, and by night time we were ready to go to bed and wait another year for Santa Clause to come. Now, you readers, tell me about your memories of Christmas day because the ten o’clock news is coming on and I don’t want to miss it.

This blog is directly from Granny. She told me what to say word for word.

Kung Fu Fighting

2009-12-15T00:09:00.002-06:00

I thought some of you might need to laugh so I decided to post this blog. My husband, John, wanted a ‘Band Hero’ for Christmas. He opened his gift early this year. This evening, John played the guitar and my sister-in-law sang. On the video, John is really getting into the song, ‘Kung Fu Fighting.’

Granny kept rolling her eyes and laughing. She told us, “If this doesn’t get any better, I am going to help out and be the back-up singer.”

Leaving on a Jet Plane

2009-12-11T19:56:00.007-06:00

Jonathan at two years old

Jonathan at 21 years old

Today we drove my brother, Jonathan, to the Atlanta airport. He is flying to England and will be over there for a month. I told him that he might fall in love with a British girl. I may have British nieces and nephews with British accents, after all!

I took some pictures of him going through the security. My mom said I probably shouldn't be taking the pictures and could get arrested. I laughed and replied that John will have to come get me out of jail! Here are the pictures.

Jonathan is flying over the Atlantic Ocean right now. I miss you, Jonathan. Run across the English countryside for me!

Friends for Life

2009-12-08T19:42:00.006-06:00

I can’t imagine life without the support of such great friends!

My girlfriends and I thought it would be fun to get together each week for lunch. At first, Granny hesitated about joining saying she was way too old. My friends insisted that Granny come! They told her that she is just one of the girls. Today we had a lunch get-together and Granny enjoyed it very much. When we were driving home, Granny wanted to know when we were getting together again. She exclaimed, “I’m just crazy about those girls. They are so sweet! I don’t feel like an old woman when I’m around them!”

Missing Brittany and Stephanie!

Tacky Christmas Party!

2009-12-08T00:06:00.008-06:00

I enjoy Christmas parties, but tacky Christmas parties are much more fun! My girlfriends and I were discussing the Christmas party and decided that everyone should go in outlandish Christmas apparel. Granny couldn’t wait for the party and picked out her tacky outfit. She put on two different set of earrings!

There was an award for the tackiest and cutest couple.

We had an ornament gift exchange and Granny really got into the game. She went home with the ornament she wanted!

Merry Tacky Christmas Y'all

Baby Shower Fun!

2009-12-05T23:02:00.004-06:00

I love Baby Showers! Today I helped host a baby shower brunch for my friend. She is expecting a baby boy and will name him John Haize. Decorating for the shower was fun! While this preparation was taking place, my fairy godmother Martha Stewart came to me with this crazy idea. She told me to make an edible fruit basket. I objected and told her I was not crafty enough for such a task. However, she changed my mind and here it is!

We labeled the food and my edible fruit basket was titled, ‘Fruit of the womb.’ The pigs in the blanket were titled, ‘Pigs in a swaddling blanket’, and the quiche was titled, ‘Quiche those little cheeks.’ The blueberry muffins were titled, ‘Little Boy Blue muffins.’

Here are some more pictures of the shower.

!! Emergency Room Madness !!

2009-12-04T17:19:00.005-06:00

My head was turned for a second and the next thing I knew Granny was on the ground!

I quickly tried to help her up, but couldn’t lift her. Suddenly, two men (angels) stopped and jumped out of their truck to assist us. I drove her to Jackson's Emergency Room to see if she had any broken bones. On the way, Granny kept saying she was fine. Actually, she wanted us to stop and eat at a restaurant instead of going to the Emergency Room. She protested being rolled into the hospital and I said to her, “Granny, it is better to check to see if you have any broken bones then to leave it. If I fall when I am your age, I expect you to take me to the Emergency Room, no questions asked! ” She chuckled at my comment.

As soon as the nurse walked in Granny exclaimed, “I don’t know why she brought me here, I’m fine and dandy.” The nurse was great and told Granny that she heard she had a fall. After seeing the nurse, we waited in a little room for the doctor. The wait was for four hours! Let me tell you that Granny was not a happy camper! In the middle of the wait, Granny picked up her bag and stated, “Come on, let’s go. I’m fine and I don’t remember having this on the list of things to do today.” I guess we are both stubborn because I told her she had to stay. The doctor informed us that she did not have any broken bones! Great news!! Of course, Granny let out, “I told you so!” As we were leaving the Emergency Room, I saw the nurse again and she waved goodbye to us. Without thinking I said, “Bye! See you again soon.” Granny gasped, “Speak for yourself, I am not coming here again soon!”

Big Toe

2009-12-03T21:29:00.000-06:00

WARNING: For those of you who hate the thought of talking/thinking/ hearing about feet you have been warned!

I wanted to write this blog because I am throwing myself a pity party. The pity parties only occur about once a month, and I need some of you to attend this little get-together. When I was born, I am certain my big toe would have won the award for “Best Toe Ever.” I now know how Cindy Crawford feels about her mole. One little mole could not possibly corrupt a whole face full of beauty.

Granny enjoys her pedicures, and I decided that I would join in for the fun. So much for fun when your pedicurist looks at your big toe and gasps! She took one look at my toe and exclaimed in broken English, “What happened? You have disease of toe?”

Yes, it is called ‘my brother sharpened a pencil and left it on the floor and the lead went right through my big toe’ disease. Therefore I dedicate this blog to my brother who at the young age of nine left a sharpened pencil on the carpet. Jonathan, you know who you are, and I expect a huge gift from England and a comment expressing your sorrow for all the agony I have been through because of my toe. Anyone else who wants to let me know that I have a beautiful toe in spite of the blemish, feel free to leave the comment.

Pictures of my big toe are being withheld due to the people (look at the above warning) who can’t stand the talk of feet!

O' Christmas Tree

2009-12-02T23:37:00.005-06:00

As Josh Groban began singing ‘O Holy Night’, I felt tingles run down my spine. I was having a hard time getting into the Christmas spirit this year until tonight. Last year, on Christmas day, my granddad passed away. I didn’t want to do anything for Christmas this year, but tonight made me think differently. As I have mentioned before, I grew up with my grandparents and they both passed away last year. My grandma came to mind when we were decorating our Christmas tree. Her father died on Christmas day like my grandfather, but she always made Christmas enjoyable for her grandchildren. I began thinking about the whole idea of Christmas and why it is celebrated. It is a time of being around loved ones and sharing memories of loved ones.

I am so glad Granny helped decorate the tree. When I say help, I mean she directed where ornaments should be placed. J She kept reminding me that I better be good or Santa won’t come see me. She exclaimed, “You better get a chimney installed or Santa won’t be able to get in your house!”

Thankful for Granny

2009-11-24T19:07:00.000-06:00

During the Thanksgiving holiday, our minds turn to what we are thankful for in our lives.

I wanted to write what I am thankful for about Granny. I love waking up to her smile and experiencing her positive attitude. Her love of life and enthusiasm is cherished in the midst of a world of negativity.

Thank you, Granny, for being you!

Who’s that cute couple?

2009-11-20T22:11:00.007-06:00

Everyday Granny asks me, with a twinkle in her eye, if I recognize the cute couple in the picture. I reply by telling her that the couple looks a whole lot like her and her husband. She chuckles and says, “Well, yes, it is us. Aren’t we a cute couple?” The picture was

taken back in the forties and they look like movie stars. Granny continues, “I wish you could have met my husband Pete, although I know I shouldn’t wish him back. He was a good husband!” Granny pauses for a minute and then says, “I miss him. He was always doing good for people. Pete would go over and paint a person’s house and not charge them a cent!”. She then laughs, “When I met him I didn’t like him at first! I thought he was arrogant. However, he won me over and I’m glad he did!”

Put a Smile on your Face - Make the World a Better Place

2009-11-16T20:34:00.005-06:00

One thing about Granny is that she is always making me laugh! Here are some of her funny phrases:

“You better tell my boyfriend that I can’t make it to that date tonight!”

“Better be good or HO-HO won’t come see you!”

“That man speeding in his car is going to be caught by the PO-PO!”

“You better get out of the way or Monique will crash into the back of your car!”

I will drive over a bump and she will exclaim, “I just lost the baby!"

“It’s awful being 100!”

“One day I am going to marry a rich man and I’m going shopping when I do!”

How come I never smile when I workout?

2009-11-12T22:19:00.003-06:00

Thursdays are fun at the Demas’ house! It is Physical Therapy Day aka “Jane Fonda Workout” Day according to Granny. When I announce that the Physical Therapist is on her way, Granny exclaims, “Well, I am going to tell her that she needs to go home!”, and then chuckles. The Therapist has a list of about 20 exercises that she wants Granny to practice each day. I try to do the exercises with Granny. Note the emphasis on the word try. Granny will be completing her knee extensions and say to me, “Ok, Monique, you take over now!”

One of the exercises requires Granny to balance on a cushion. The Therapist told Granny that when she practices this exercise her feet don’t need to be on a cushion. Only the therapist didn’t clarify the statement. Instead she said, “You need to be flat on the floor when you practice this exercise with Monique.” Without missing a beat, Granny gasped, “If I’m flat on the floor, I’m never getting back up!”

Just One of those Days!

2009-11-09T15:48:00.003-06:00

I asked Granny how she felt this morning. She let out a sign and stated, “I am just having one of those days! It’s awful to get old.”

Granny is an optimistic individual and it takes a lot for her to say she is having a hard time. I have an idea! If you can think of an encouraging comment to leave Granny, I will read it to her. Everyone needs a pickup once in awhile!

Two of a Kind

2009-11-05T19:25:00.003-06:00

I figured out today that if I ever need directions, Granny is my GPS! I was amazed as we were traveling to Aunt Mildred’s house how Granny spat out directions.

“Now,” Granny would begin, “You need to go over the railroad track and the house is on the left.”

We arrived at Aunt Mildred’s house carrying a huge bucket of Kentucky Fried Chicken. Granny climbed the steps and greeted her aunt by saying, “Here’s my favorite aunt!” Aunt Mildred chuckled and said, “I’m your ONLY aunt, still living!”

Aunt Mildred is 93 and the sweetest person I know! Her face is wrinkle-free and I am dying to know which fountain of youth she dove into as a girl! Aunt Mildred is quite a storyteller and I enjoyed listening as she shared stories of her childhood. She told us that her mama raised six children. Granny reminded her with a grin, “And us too- me, Twila, and Billy!”

Aunt Mildred continued to tell me that her mama always cooked vegetables. Granny stated that she didn’t like eating ALL those vegetables and Aunt Mildred agreed. “However,” Aunt Mildred smiled, “she always had a pot of baked sweet potatoes cooking that I loved eating!”

Before we left, I took pictures of the aunt and niece. On the last picture, I told them to do something funny and Aunt Mildred grabbed Granny’s hair and tugged! Granny’s look was priceless! They are truly two of a kind!

Two women in wheelchairs

2009-11-01T16:24:00.003-06:00

Today is a special day for our family. My grandma who passed away June 17, 2008 would be celebrating her 84^th birthday. I was thinking about how two women in wheelchairs have impacted my life, Grandma and Granny.

My grandma had polio and overcame many obstacles. She raised five children on the mission field. I was able to talk to her about anything, and she would always have a wise answer. As a teenager, I would sit on the end of her bed and let her know all my troubles. One certain day, I was complaining about whether or not I would ever find someone special in my life. Grandma looked at me and stated, “I pray for him every night. I want more than anything for you and your sister to find Godly men.” Her prayers were answered with John. The day I met John, he went over to his Granny’s apartment and told her that he meet the girl he was going to marry. Little did I know what an impact his granny would have in my life!

Now that grandma has gone to heaven, I find joy in another lady who helps fill the empty void that grandma left behind. Granny lives day by day loving life and remaining positive in the midst of pain. I asked her one day, “How did you get to become such a lovely older woman?” She looked at me and stated, “I determined in my heart that I was not going to become a bitter old woman!” Each woman has played a part by giving me a clearer perspective on life and realizing what is REALLY important.

Wheelchair fun!

2009-10-31T01:38:00.002-05:00

I got permission from Granny to share the following account!

My side has been aching since we left the store tonight. Granny and I could NOT stop giggling! I was making squealing noises like a pig! It started when John rolled a wheelchair to our car from Academy Sports Store. Granny took one look at the wheelchair and exclaimed, “You can fit two people in that wheelchair! Now if a person twice my size wants a wheelchair they won’t have one!” Here’s the picture.

Look at how far the footrests are spread apart!

Morning Routine

2009-10-30T01:49:00.002-05:00

People feel a sense of stability when they have a certain routine they follow day by day. Change does not come easily. It is 1:00 am and I am thinking of tomorrow morning. I know what will occur before it even happens. She will wake up and pace with her walker to the chair beside the huge window.

Her sweet voice will mumble, “It’s early. Why don’t we sleep a little longer?”

I’ll stroll into the kitchen asking along the way, “What do you want for breakfast?”

She will reply, “Grits and coffee.”

After I boil the water for the coffee, I will hand her her pills and she will declare, “I don’t want those pills! Why don’t you have them? They don’t do me a bit of good. I think I will throw them out the window!” I will chuckle because she pretends she is throwing the pills out of the window.

At 8:00 am, I will open the front door and announce, “The morning paper has come!”

Granny will take out her glasses and read the interesting articles. The newspaper will cover her face, but occasionally she will uncover it and make a comment about a sale.

I will proceed to turn on her favorite music while she is eating her breakfast. I must admit I have not always been a Bill Gaither fan, but now I am a diehard fan!!! He makes her morning! I love you, Bill Gaither, if you read my blog! Granny will quietly sing under her breath along to her favorite gospel hymn. The reason she sings under her breath is because she says she can’t sing. I disagree! She sings beautifully. I will sing along because NOW I know every Bill Gaither gospel hymn! :)

It’s 1:30 am now and I hear her walker glide down the hallway.

Monkeying around!!

2009-10-29T22:41:00.004-05:00

There’s nothing quite like staring at a 3000 pound rhinoceros with only a fence separating you and the creature! Today, we met up with our friends for lunch and then traveled to the zoo. It was special being able to experience the zoo with our godchildren and Granny.

My favorite part was watching Granny and the kids giggle as the spider monkeys swung from one rope to another rope. As we left the zoo, Granny asked, “Are you going to throw me in the zoo?” She then quickly stated, “If you did, they wouldn’t have me!”

‘Mother Goose or should I say Mother Geese’

2009-10-26T19:36:00.006-05:00

On Mondays, Granny and I pack a picnic and head to Blount Cultural Park.

Today was no different except for a little incident involving a flock of geese! I had half a loaf of old bread on my kitchen counter so I asked Granny if she wanted to feed the birds. She did, of course, and was excited as I rolled her toward her hungry admirers!

She threw the first piece of bread, and all of a sudden, she was surrounded by a flock of geese (moms, dads, uncles, aunts, cousins, in-laws, and cousins twice removed!!!)

One goose snatched the bread right from her hand! Granny couldn’t throw the bread quick enough for the greedy terrors. It was quite a sight to see!