[Barbara Smith]

#116182

Been much less humid down our way this week and it is welcomed.i really appreciate you all sharing your doctor/dentist visits since we have our first in his office checkup next week, and I haven’t felt comfortable about going. I know we need our labs but wish they would send someone here and do the telephone visit. We are both past due on our glasses too.
I bet your cake tasted good Sue. Our neighbor gave Jerry a Baggie of fresh blueberries he had picked from their yard. I froze them and have been looking at recipes. Glad your health reports were good. That’s a great gift right there. Worth more to me than material things. The older I get the more I understand all these sayings I’ve heard for years. Wish I had really listened back then.
Gail, Jerry would have been right there with Gregg being a good lawyer. It may take him weeks but he will research and support his facts until I’m convinced or just too tired to keep on lol I would have liked to see him as a high school/college professor of history. He was always good with young people.
This school year is so strange for young ones. Even little Colin will say “the sickness” when talking about school. He says “come see me” followed by “you can’t because of the sickness” how are your grandchildren accepting all this? I just don’t see how your children are able to co-ordinate all they have to do.
Take care all. Hope everyone’s having a good day.

[Barbara Smith]

#115523

Hello everyone. Been a little under the weather, but am doing better. I’ve been so sleepy late in the afternoon every day. When I fall asleep I sleep hard and it seems to keep me awake late at night. Gail I hope Gregg has passed his stones. I know they are so painful until you get them out. Something that tiny feels huge I’ve been told. The drugstore here sells those filter stone collectors. I especially love your memes on our challenges as we age. I think the nurse needs to face facts career wise: she has passed her expiration date as a nurse lol love how the child was crying but poor mom was experiencing the pain…..
Heard from my brother in New Orleans tonight. He said they are having lots of flooding and stormy weather there. He was walking with a friend of his and a snake bit the man on his tennis shoe, but thankfully did not break the skin. He described it to me and based on the fact it didn’t race off I think it was a copperhead very dangerous aggressive reptile. John said they were on a concrete walk. Hard to believe but they are out there.
I get discouraged too in how it seems we can’t get past some issues and all work together to irradicate this disease that I for one am not completely satisfied anyone really agrees on what it is or what it is doing to us all. To openly destroy our history, as a great man said, dooms us to repeat history. And as this is teaching me, people are so hardheaded and don’t even seem to want to listen to anyone else’s view. But I agree Gail, the news seemed so different years ago. And the reporters. I was shocked the first time I heard reporters talking over the president, since I had not ever heard that before. I always knew there are conflicting opinions. Times are so different now. It hurts me to hear little ones repeat ugly words or see them in cars where ugly words are playing. Guess I’m really showing my age. Whenever I heard one of our little ones say something inappropriate I would just say “your face is too handsome for an ugly word to slip out of your mouth” and that seemed to work, at least temporarily lol Even Neal said, mama you all were right, Colin has excellent memory for what we hope he forgets ha ha
Adele and Sue, praying for you all as you bravely face each day. Take care of yourselves. Adele I don’t think there is an explanation why each day and night is different. I’m here if you ever want to talk.
Be careful DD. I’m not sure how I could handle all you have to face. Colleen, you take care of your sweet baby. Hope his little teeth are through by now Barb

[Barbara Smith]

#115026

Adele, the flowers are so beautiful. You were there in your heart. I know you are so proud of the young ones who help so much as they can. And how sweet they all love your pesto they are asking for extra on hand. Jerrys dad always kept extra jars for canning. We had problems finding lids and seals. So we started stocking up in the winter. Our favorite was his vegetable soup that we put up in quart jars. It was so yummy in the cold winter with hot cornbread or hot fresh bread. How is Tillie? Is she eating?
I really liked Antonella’s smile and her what seemed so real to me genuine love of sparkly. I wonder how management decided who would stay or go. She has been there longer than some who stayed-Mabey offered early out and/or buyout packages. Just guessing. I hope Quacker stays. Most of my “vintage” Quacker clothes are just beautiful with such detailed bead work and embroidery. Been buying from Q since it began-long time now.
DD have things quieted down any out your way? Hope so. Are you able to get out and about any? Snowball sounds like she needs some social contact with others too! She is tired of distancing and isolation as well. Our kitty gets upset if we are not fixing his breakfast by a certain time each day. Mornings has become harder for us these last few months, and Auto is not willing to compromise. So he sits on the foot of the bed and howls loudly looking straight at us. He knows I will eventually give in as soon as I can get my legs going. We sure love him.
Better say goodnight for now. Jerry recorded a rodeo on the rural channel and wants company watching it. I like barrell racing the ladies do and bronc riding. He likes bull riding and bronc riding. Take care everyone Barb

[Barbara Smith]

#114667

Hello everyone. Gosh is it another hot one here today. Jerry has gotten himself a case of poison ivy on his face, hands and some of one arm. It is miserable but I think is a little better today. i can’t seem to keep myself awake. I really think boredom is causing it. Jerry keeps it like a freezer in here so I get all snuggled down in my recliner all comfy and off I go. The pill I take for the atrial flutter is known for making you sleepy. So guess that has something to do with it too. I’ve been trying to get some Christmas gifts early this year. Picked up pajama sets for the girls for a good price and free shipping. I am trying to label them and want to go ahead and wrap early too. The pj’s are really cute and soft.
Yesterday was Jerrys birthday too. We ate dinner with Joey and Lisa. The birthday boy grilled steaks we got from Costo. They were so tasty. Lisa bought an ice cream cake from Baskin Robbins on her way home. It was a really nice evening. Jerry seemed to really enjoy his birthday. I ordered him a Panama hat from amazon. It looks good on him. At first he said he didn’t know where he would wear it, but I think he really likes it. Glad Greggs back is better Gail. I’m like you, my hair is a long mess. And I can’t even think about trying to color it. Guess it’s a good thing I’m confined to just riding in the car lol
Adele, you really put a lot of thought into the memorial items. I know the family really appreciate it. I really hope Tillie is able to see a doctor or social worker real soon. Sounds like she is having a really difficult time and you have so much on you of your own grief to work through. I’ll continue to pray for all of you. The picture of little Sonny is so cute. He looks like he is really enjoying himself. How precious. What is your baby’s latest little tricks Colleen? I know he is growing too and grinning and gooing. Do they have a tooth yet?
Are things calming down any where you are DD? I’m glad you were able to visit with Critt. We all need someone we can talk to right now I think. Our Auto Kitty has started playing at 3-4am every morning. He wakes us up just playing at the foot of the bed. He has a stuffed shrimp that he holds between his front paws and just kicks and kicks with his back paws. Its so cute. He has his routine and he follows it almost to the letter. I had a hard time getting his canned food for about a month. Finally I was able to order it again.
Hugs to you all, Barbara

[Barbara Smith]

#114300

Very hot here today. They keep telling people on our local news to stay indoors if possible. We rode into town just to drugstore and post office. In all our years here we for the first time today didn’t see a single car at the post office. Jerry went inside just to see if they were closing our branch. They said no, but please don’t tell the postal service that no one was there. So many businesses are just going away. I don’t know how people are surviving. Our lives have really changed. Joey is out mowing on the tractor and I will be checking on him frequently in this heat. He promised he would only mow a short time. Jerry was able to get the tractor part he needed but the field grew up during the time we were dealing with that.
Sue, I’m sure the heat was a big factor while you all paid your respects at the funeral. I was at a service with my FIL and it got that warm sticky no wind moving time. He and I looked at one another since we both knew that here those conditions meant a storm was brewing. As we were leaving the grounds a huge storm blew up and we barely made it to our cars. Very scary. We have some bad storms here. But the good Lord also has really watched over us too. I hope you are doing well, and again am sorry.
I meant to tell you all that just about every place of business in our little town have signs at the door that says “masks required for admittance into store” We seem to see more compliance. I’m still not getting out of the car. Jerry always wears his mask. And then he uses hand sanitizer every time he gets back in car.
Hope today has been a better day for you Adele. I’m so glad your family is there. How is Tillie doing? Your family sounds so sweet and loving of one another. I want to know what Mr. Sonny has been doing. I bet he is just cooing and going by now. They are so precious and.bring joy to everyone.
Better go for now. Let’s all just do the best we can and turn it over to the Lord to help us face each day. How is your back doing Gail surely hope it’s better. Colleen are you doing ok? I know you must be hot too. DD are things calming down any out there? Please be careful and hug your beautiful kitty. Ours is asleep in a Q box ha ha Barbara

[Barbara Smith]

#114160

Hello to All. Sue, I am sorry for your loss. This has been such a difficult time. I just saw your note today. I haven’t gone to get a haircut in over six months now. There are a few places here doing this, but would have to go to Memphis, and even if I wasn’t concerned about the virus; there is just too much other things going on now. Most of our groceries are done online, and pet supplies too. I think we have watched some movies and shows at least three times now. But if it is something decent we just watch it over again. Sometimes I feel like we are just asking too much just to see a show with no curse words or racy scenes. I guess I am getting old lol
Gail, sure hope your back is doing better. I see Jerry guarding his back and know how much it hurts him. I know a hurt back cannot be ignored, but rest helps. Sometimes just getting him to sit is a challenge, but if I can get him too it will help. Jerry talks to his trees and to the hummingbirds. I am trying to talk him into doing a spreadsheet on his trees, where they are, what they are, when planted, any anecdotal notes about them etc. for the boys. If nothing else could be used if property sold. I talk to everything and always have. I was driving along on day to work and was saying my prayers and glanced over to see lady next to me just staring at me like I was talking to myself and crazy ha ha Sounds like you and Gregg are enjoying the concerts. And happy anniversary too. Everything is SO different now isn’t it? Colleen, we are dullsville here too, but I will take it. I am worried about having to go in to the doctors office next month. They are not giving us a choice. This will be my first time out in public and it makes me nervous.
DD our kitty has hidden in the closet when I didn’t see him too. He refused to come out when I called and called. I finally shook a pkg. of treats and he came stretching down the hall. He is really spoiled but so much company.
Adele, please find comfort any way you can. I’m so glad Bobby and Amanda are there. Did you manage ok doing dinner? I know it was hard but I hope it helped since I bet it comforted them. No one can say what is right in how such sad things are managed. If it makes you feel any better, just follow your heart. Your remembrances sound so beautiful. Praying for you all and for you Sue.
Take care everyone. Terribly hot here; the melting kind. Humidity just awful Barbara

[Barbara Smith]

#113641

Adele, I hope each day will bring a sweet memory for you. The er Doctor sounds like he was a very caring soul. And what loving gestures by Bobby and the girls to their mother. Isn’t it just amazing when we let go (either by need to or have to or whatever) that what we didn’t ever expect to happen does and makes us so proud and thankful? Seems to me that the young ones can accomplish so much we are not even aware of. I’m so glad they are there to help. There seems to be so many things being done now for remembrance that I wasn’t aware of. But whatever helps someone is good I think.
Were you all able to have a service with all the Covid restrictions or do you plan a memorial for later? All the rules now must make it even more difficult. I’m sure something beautiful was done or is planned. Like Gail said, we are here if you want to talk or anything we are here to help anyway we possibly can. Love and big hugs across the miles 🌹Barbara

[Barbara Smith]

#112241

We have had lots of pouring rain this afternoon and evening but nothing bad. We took a short walk before it started and the clouds were just swirling in the sky. Then the rain came. We are to finally clear late tomorrow. Hope the storm is not dangerous where you all are. Colleen, did you get storms? Thinking I heard Missouri is so be safe.
I too am just shocked that people in government are calling for police defunding. As if our country doesn’t need the police to help us. Can you even fathom not having a number to call when you need help? Yes, Gail, my dad retired after 35 years as a policeman, and his father was also a policeman. I have pictures of them both standing tall in their police uniforms. I was raised around police officers. It’s like daddy always said “there is good and bad people in all walks of life” and “one bad apple doesn’t spoil the barrel”. I have seen this in people I worked with, went to school with, are related to, and go to,church with. I pray we can all do as Adele said and see each other as people. I know this for certain, we all bleed the same red blood.
My brother is handsome Gail and very young at heart. He has kept himself in good physical shape and loves talking with everyone. He is so talented; at least in my eyes. He has beautiful wavy hair that he’s always worn “artist” length not man bun but longer than Jerry. He is doing more sketches right now than painting. They have the studio closed right now. His wife is the youth pastor for ages 4-18. She does a computer ministry right now with the pastor, who is also female. It’s with the Methodist church.
DD hope your shoulder is better. My shoulder talks to me around 3am. My aches keep me company late at night. That is so sweet Snowball is keeping you warm and cozy. They are so good to keep us company.
We have to ride in to town tomorrow and Mail off a box to Colin. Neal told us he doesn’t need anything, but when we asked Colin last week to tell us if he needs anything, he said “will you send me something Mimi?” so Neal will just have to accept it ha ha We got him a Spider-Man figure and car, some books, and some suckers. We miss him!!! They move into their rental home the 1st of July. Did I tell you all its 3 bedroom, 2 1/2 baths, big walk in closets-just beautiful. in a gated community. So I think they picked as safe an area as possible, and am happy about that. But as you said Gail, with our young ones no news is good news. And Neal only shares what he feels he should, and that hurts sometimes, but we try to understand.
Will close for now. Take care everyone and please stay safe. I pray we come out from under this virus cloud soon.

[Barbara Smith]

#112159

Hope you all have had a good weekend. It has been very hot and humid here. We rode through a small park by the Navy base right outside our little town this afternoon, just to get out a while. It was so nice. I miss interacting with others. But I don’t see going out any more than we have for quite some time to come. We both just don’t think it’s worth the risk for either one of us. I have about gone crazy with “cabin fever” since my isolation began in Nov. so six months now for me. My brother in New Orleans called today to check on us. He and his wife have been traveling around Alabama and then to the beach at Orange Beach for several weeks. They both do distancing, wear masks, and are careful. He is 3 years older but she is much younger. They seem so in love and perfect for each other. He is worried but said they are so careful and I know they are. His wife’s father is younger than my brother, and I laughed when he first explained all this to me. My sil looks just light a model. Her skin is so beautiful. I am so happy for them both.
We did FaceTime with Neal and Colin Friday. Words just can’t say how much we miss them. Sometimes I just can’t let myself think about it. So happy your babies are doing so good. They are just precious, and I know it must seem like yesterday when all your other little ones were babies too.
Hope all your employees and businesses will be safe. How scary for us all.
Glad you got you AC fixed Colleen. I bet you all were roasting. We would have to find someplace with AC.
Take care all and please stay healthy and safe,

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