Mary and I thought we had a grip on the lessons and the class for Sunday School this morning. We were wrong… The boys (Ben and Max) were not on the same page as we were – meaning they were interested in everything BUT the lesson! But it all went well and Church was good as Todd spoke about God providing for us.

After lunch (which was crackers and cheese) I emptied the car out – I still had all the stuff in that I took to Kelly’s and brought back from Kelly’s. I put her items for storage in the dresser drawers of her chest in the shed, and put all my stuff away. I downloaded all the photos from yesterday, talked to Claudia about the Fall Tea (Hanna’s Town), and gathered up things to take to Mary’s picnic. I will share that tomorrow, as I have YESTERDAY to catch up with today!

So yesterday Kelly and I went to Oglebay for the Fort Henry Days celebration. It’s an 18th Century Encampment and battle re-enactment. There were demonstrations of 18th century life, Punch and Judy puppet shows for the kids, Talks on Midwifery and Myths of White Captives by Native Americans, Dancing, Blacksmithing, Surgeon tent, Bookbinding, fabric demonstrations. It was very informative.

Kelly saw a few people she knew, and she had insights about some of the displays. I saw my friend Louise (and husband Scott) and we chatted for a while. Some of the interesting displays were the Ale sellers, the fabric dyeing, the surgeon’s tent, the Bookbindery (one of the pamphlets was the Art of Farting!), and forge.

We walked down to Camp Russel, where the 4-H troops have their camp weeks and where Kelly usually helps with cooking all week. It’s a very nice place and the buildings are well kept.

From the encampment we drove over to the Oglebay mansion museum. That was one thing I really wanted to see. There is a lot of local history at Oglebay, in the park and the museums and the family. We parked at the gift shop and looked around, then walked up to the mansion. It is beautifully kept, clean and well displayed and very interesting. MORE than worth the price to tour! It’s self guided, with a map and little recordings in most of the rooms. I could live there! Here are just a FEW pictures of a FEW rooms!

We passed several office buildings and the greenhouse and the amphitheater. The gardens are amazing and immaculate. The views were spectacular. All in all it was a wonderful day.

We left there, had lunch, and went home to tackle a few projects for the West Alexandria fair. Kelly is a 4-H leader and has her hands in a dozen things! She was working on a display for their chapter, and had some help from her little friend Jo. She just sent me pictures of the finished display! Fair starts tomorrow.

When I left, Kelly and Matt were walking down the driveway holding hands! It was a sweet way to end the visit!

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TOMORROW September 4th is:

Labor Day; National Wildlife Day; National Newspaper Carrier Day; National Macadamia Nut Day.

I’ll take a laborless labor day! Time for a break – after a morning with Kath at the craft festival! God bless…

I left the house a little before 9 this morning and headed to Kelly’s. We were going to Fort Henry Days at Oglebay Park. It was SUCH a great day! But as it’s 12 hours later and I have things to organize for Church tomorrow I am going to recap the day tomorrow and share pictures. I’ll just say that I saw a reenactor friend (Louise) and Kelly saw a few friends, and we toured the Oglebay Mansion. Lunch at Chick Fil-A! So — photos tomorrow!

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TOMORROW September 3rd is:

National Welsh Rarebit day; US Bowling League Day; National Pastor’s Spouses Day.

Mom loved to Bowl; and Kathy is a pastor’s wife, so here is to her! Celebrate! God bless…

I had a list going for me this morning. First thing – well, after shower and breakfast – was to go to a friend’s garage sale. Actually her MOM is a friend that I met through Ron. I thought maybe there would be something Autmn could use but there really wasn’t. I bought a pan for Kathy if she wants it, and a wooden book stack for me. I always wanted one and this was the perfect opportunity. Then I lucked on a set of wooden PEANUTS spoons! I was very excited!

From there I drove down to Pinnacle/Jeannette and switched out cars. I am driving a 2020 Nissan Rogue. It’s a very nice SUV. It was talking to me – told me there was a toll road ahead! I turned off, though, so I didn’t need it. I’m taking it to Kelly’s in the morning so we’ll see how it does.

Dottie accepted an offer on the house. Closing is in about 6 weeks. This young couple is moving back into the area from out of state – they have family in Indiana PA! So we already have something in common.

I also talked to Gen last night. She is coming back to Greensburg for a few days in September. I’m so excited! It’s been over a year since she’s been here! And she bought a house! Double excitement! She’ll only be 2 miles from Chris’s family. She sent me the link and it’s a beautiful house – just perfect for her. There’s a fairly nice sized yard for her gardens, and plenty of room for company (smile) and for her family to gather.

Since I didn’t get to see the Blue moon on Wednesday night, I watched for it last night. When it came up it was bright orange and big and beautiful! My camera doesn’t take good night pictures but it was a wonder to see.

After lunch I spent almost 5 hours outside. I got the garden between the driveway and the fence cleaned up, the patio stones done, and the top of the hill from the fence to the lilacs. Still a long way to go but I feel good about getting so much done. Have to have this thing in good order before my Master Gardner friend gets here!!

Here we are in a brand new month!

Today was two years since Mom’s passing. And yesterday was four years since we lost Susan (Skunk Hollow Cousin). Two beautiful ladies, dearly missed!!!

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TOMORROW September 2nd is:

World Coconut Day; National V-J Day; National Tailgating Day; World Bread Day; National Hummingbird Day; National Blueberry Popsicle Day; National Play Outside Day; International Bacon Day.

Play outside! I am going to Fort Henry Days at Oglebay with Kelly tomorrow. No tailgating or coconuts or popsicles, but possibly bacon… I like hummingbirds! Have a great Holiday weekend! God bless.

Today is the last day of August, 2023. I can’t believe the year is flying by so fast. Only 4 months left. Today is cooler; even though it’s in the 70’s there is a cool breeze. Hoping it’s like that tomorrow as I need to do garden work. But first thing in the morning I have to take the Altima down to Jeannette – they have a customer coming in to drive it.

After lunch I did a little yard work – there was a branch that was hanging out of my front Maple tree and I wanted to pull it down and break it up for the trash.

I also promised Peyton more cinnamon rolls, so I got those made, as well. And that, strange as it seems, was my day, except for answering a few emails.

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TOMORROW September 1st is:

National Chicken Boy Day; National Lazy Mom’s Day; National Burnt Ends Day; National Hotel Employees Day; National No Rhyme (Nor Reason) Day; National Forgiveness Day; National College Colors Day; National Food Bank Day.

The best choice is always to forgive. And be kind. God bless…

I popped out of bed and got to work cleaning pretty much right away. I was interrupted a few times when Dottie, Tori, and the dogs came over to evac for a house showing. It was the last one – – the realtor cut it off – she had several really good offers so he said – ‘This is it! Submit your best offer!’ She will decided which buyer today. I really thought I should be allowed to screen the candidates!

About 12:30pm I stopped chores and got ready to pick up Autmn. We went to Frick hospital and she got her blood levels checked and had more bloodwork done. Everything was good – except her iron count is down a bit. They will be monitoring that.

She was starved afterwards, so we went to McDonalds and got her food. Two chicken sandwiches, large fry, M&M McFlurry, Large Coke, and a glass of ice! I had a small frozen Coke…. She was very contented.

Here are some pics that Christina took at the Shower on Sunday.

Today was another horse day. They look so cool up in the field.

The morning glories are blooming on the fence. One made its way through the heart in the wheelbarrow…

I finished cleaning about 7pm. Next chore will be food. It WON’T be McDonalds!

Reports from Florida confirm that Ron’s area is safe – just rain here and there, plus a pretty intense lightening show last night. So glad they aren’t in danger – as long as no one travels to the coast!

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TOMORROW August 31st is:

National South Carolina Day; National Matchmaker Day; National Trail Mix Day; National Eat Outside Day.

I could eat outside, in South Carolina! It’s a nice state. Especially Charleston; I loved it there! The last time I had Trail Mix – I think – was on the Appalachian Trail at Harper’s Ferry! Have a great Thursday – God bless…

This will be a short post this evening. I was pretty busy all day and I’m about done ‘doing’!

I just looked out the door, and the clouds are beautiful. So dramatic. It looks like they have a hole for God to peek down through!

I worked both stores this morning, then stopped to help Mike P. Dottie txt me that they had another showing and they were at my place for a short bit. They were gone by the time I got home. Autmn Txt me and said she does need a ride to her appointment tomorrow. So that’s on the calendar.

The hurricane reports on Florida’s Gulf coast are scary. Ron is about an hour and a half north of Tampa, but inland. He’s not in the direct path but could possibly feel the effects. It’s frightening. I’ll be tense until it’s past them – as I’m sure all of that area of Florida will be!

Dottie’s two showings this afternoon late had the dogs here and Dottie keeping them company. Milo hurt his toe nail and she was giving him some extra lovin’. Willow ate a box of tissue – or rather tore it up! I don’t think she actually ate any!

After lunch (corn on the cob), I cut the grass and weed whacked. I was soaked and sweaty so I took a shower. Then I made potato soup but I don’t think I’ll have it for supper. I stopped at Palmer’s market and got a few home-grown tomatoes so I plan on having one of those with a slice of homemade bread.

And that’s it! We will put the lid on today and start again tomorrow!

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TOMORROW August 30th is:

National Toasted Marshmallow Day; National Grief Awareness Day; International Whale Shark Day; National Beach Day.

If you go to the beach, watch out of Whale Sharks! Feed them marshmallows. God bless!!!

I have worked hard at keeping this day somewhat quiet and unexcitable. I worked in Jeannette, then went to the chiropractor, then to Greensburg. Rege told me about the surprise birthday party their kids hosted for his wife’s birthday, and I told him about the baby shower.

Rege did switch me out cars. The Altima rides and drives very smoothly and has plenty of room. It’s a little tight in the garage but nothing I can’t deal with. I’m always eternally grateful for having these cars provided, so it’s exciting every time I get a different vehicle!

After lunch of home-grown green beans and Smicksburg corn I started laundry and did a few things inside. My neighbor has a few showings on her house this afternoon so the dogs are in my yard. They think they should be able to come inside. I don’t! Milo misses Dottie when she leaves. He can’t stand the separation. He sits at the fence and watches for her. Phoenix sits at the door and watches me type!

I noticed that the sky was dark and cloudy. No rain yet. The side gardens are doing ok. No weeds to speak of and a few late-blooming flowers.

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TOMORROW August 29th is:

National Lemon Juice Day; According to Hoyle Day (???); National Chop Suey Day; National Sport Sampling Day; International Day against Nuclear Tests.

Aren’t you supposed to wash your face with lemon juice to get rid of freckles? I don’t have freckles. I think I will make potato soup tomorrow. Just a though. God bless….

Today was a big day – lots going on! Kelly and I went to Sunday School for the debut performance of Max (age 6) teaching the Sunday School lesson. He did a great job! He had rehearsed for 3 days (so he confided) and his Mom helped him by holding up the story pictures for each part of the lesson. His attention to detail was amazing, and he told a flawless story about the shepherd boy David and his determination to slay the giant Goliath. “The battle is the Lord’s!”

After class I was asking the kids if they learned anything new from the lesson today. Gracie said she learned that no matter how small or young you are you can accomplish great things for God.

Mary and I gave Max a teaching appreciation certificate that he can take home and put in his Happy Days box, so he’ll always remember the first time he taught a Bible lesson and that he can overcome being nervous to do what God wants him to do. Great job, Maxwell!

After Sunday school, Kelly and I zoomed home and picked up the favors for the shower and headed to Lakeview. Wasn’t I just there last night?

We spent the next hour helping decorate – and that was a chore. A labor of love (no pun intended, and no she did NOT go into labor!). Jen had purchased so many items that we covered every inch of that place. If there were 200 balloons I wouldn’t be surprised. Cookies, a cake, bunches of games, tablecloths, centerpieces, photo ops, gift table, favor table, alphabet blocks — wow. Beautiful!

Perfect setting for photo ops:

Autmn and Noah received so many amazing and thoughtful gifts for that little baby. I think my two favorites were the John Deere bouncy-seat/rider and the owl night light that would show stars through the to onto the ceiling. I want one!

The food was great, the cake delicious, the games cute, seeing people I hadn’t seen in YEARS — all delightful! And Autmn and Noah couldn’t have been sweeter or more appreciative. They were excited over each and every gift, large or small. Thanks to everyone who came or sent gifts and/or cards. Autmn’s friend Alex bought her a bookcase for all the new books that were received, so I have a feeling that Noah will be putting together the bookcase this evening!

Kelly had a picture of their friend Kenzie pushing Peyton around on a dolly. The first picture was taken 8 years ago – they were 9 years old. They recreated the picture today at age 17! That’s a long friendship, and friends are always fun. So glad they could laugh together!

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TOMORROW August 28th is:

National Thoughtful Day; International Read Comics in Public Day; National Red Wine Day; National Bow Tie Day; National Power Rangers Day; Rainbow Bridge Remembrance Day; National Cherry Turnover day.

I will remember when Tazz went over the Rainbow Bridge, and be thoughtful. But I won’t wear a Bow Tie! Have a happy day and God bless…

The cricket is still chirping up a storm. I offered Chase $10 to catch it and put it outside. He doesn’t seem interested. Anyway, I changed and washed sheets this morning, then after breakfast I cut the grass. It was very warm, even at 10am, and no breeze. I was soaked by the time I came inside. I got a shower, dressed, and went to the store for a few grocery items.

THIS JUST IN! Chase found and caught the cricket and put him outside. So now I’m out $10 but free of that annoying cricket! Chase is actually hoping I get another one – he could use another $10!

Kelly, Logan and Chase got here right after I pulled in. I organized my car for tomorrow, and Kelly put the tags on the pretzel favors. I left about 5:15pm to go to my class reunion.

This reunion – our 55th (class of 1968) – was very much different than the other ones. We all seemed a little more laid back and everything took much longer to accomplish! It seemed like we stood forever trying to get a group photo, and it was surprising the number of people who did not respond when their numbers were called for the raffle. Wherever could they have gone?

We had a recording of the Hempfield Band playing the Alma Mater – but it kept skipping and stopping and starting over. So we ditched the music and sang without the band. And only about a dozen people stood up. Why didn’t everyone; because they couldn’t?? I don’t think so. They just didn’t.

Diane and I did not stay for the music – although T-bird was spinning oldies. Most people were just talking anyway. So we snuck out about 8:30! WE are the oldies! We took pictures in the Gazebo before we left.

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TOMORROW August 27th is:

National Peach Day; National Pots De Creme Day; World Rock Paper Scissors Day; National Cinema Day; National Just Because day.

Tomorrow is Autmn and Noah’s baby shower for little almost-here Cameron James! It’s also the day that Max teaches our Sunday School class. Big day ahead. Have a great week (Just because!) and God bless…

Four months till Christmas day. I’m not at all ready to deal with that (although I do love Christmas!). Today is my cousin Anita’s birthday. Happy birthday Anita — where are you and Perry traveling to NEXT???

It’s pitch black outside (9pm) and Scott is mowing Dottie’s yard. The FOR SALE sign went up this morning, so the house is officially on the market. If you know anyone who is looking for a house, it’s a very nice 3 bedroom/3 full bathroom/3 car garage. The down side is you’d be living next to me! 🙂

It was cool enough to go for a short walk tonight – probably about a mile and a third. Here are some photos from my walk:

I’m sitting here typing and I hear crickets. I know they are outside – except one sounds like it’s in the laundry room. If it jumps at me I’ll probably faint!

Jen and I were talking about RSVP’s for the shower. No one does that anymore! She said next time she was going to add this post script to the invitation:

I was outside a few times this evening and I could hear the Hempfield Band practicing, then again later when the football game started. Also could hear the announcers but not clear enough to know what was going on. Hopefully the Spartans win!

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TOMORROW August 26th is:

National Women’s Equality Day; National Cherry Popsicle Day; National Webmistress Day; National Dog Day.

Tomorrow is Hempfield Class of 1968 reunion – 55 years. CAN’T be that long! But it IS worth celebrating! God bless…