Sunday - September 28, 2008
Just a quick note to let the family know what's going with the family in WV!
Mom had a dentist appointment last week for some work on one of her teeth. She gets to go back Tuesday for some more work! They will be numbing this one for her - ouch - she has a filling that has chipped away from the tooth!
Dink is doing better; he has been supervising Bobby working in hay! I'm sure he is gloating about the MU and WVU game. There are a couple of little boys he loves to give a hard time to - they are BIG MU fans!!!!
Rhonda has been busy canning and freezing - I know where to visit this winter!! Actually she has been sharing some of her hard work - ummm good too! On top of all the canning she still works and tries her best to take care of my brother!!! Thank you Rhonda!
Mike has been sick! Something going around - sore throat, achy body, and just plain doesn't feel good! He did say he was feeling a little better today! He missed church today and was missed! He needs to take care of himself - we don't want him end up in the hospital like Dink!
Debbie is on the not feeling well list as well! She went to a church retreat this weekend and had to sleep on a bunk. Her back is not feeling so good right now.
Todd and Meghan are busy with school and work! Todd and Cassie are also working on their wedding plans for May 16, 2009. Yes Dawn, you should be able to remember that date!
Mom and I talked with Laurie on Saturday - we interrupted her doing "homework"!!!! That's right, I said homework. She is taking some online classes. John was so proud of her first set of grades she had received. He called Mom and bragged about her getting A"s. He though it was great that she was taking classes and was doing so well! He was so proud of you Laurie!!
Laurie also told us that JD, Darcie, and the kids would be moving back form Wheeling. They were packing up this weekend! JD already has some job offers! I'm sure Laurie is pleased that they will be closer to her, and I know John is looking from above and grinning from ear to ear and prancing from foot to foot saying I'm glad you're coming home! If JD doesn't watch out, he may find lists of things to do which mysteriously appear from no where! :) (from his dad and papaw)
Bill and Toby kept things together while I was with Mom this weekend. I was with her a little longer because Mike was sick. We had a good weekend together.
Bill and I need to go get the licenses for the car tomorrow. We have been cleaning out closets and drawers of all those things we won't (can't) wear and sending them to the rummage sale where Mom goes to church. Bobby came out last week and took a truck load to the church. (Small truck!) We hope to clean out the kitchen cabinets this week of all the extra things we don't use! We would also like to take the cabinet doors off; paint them white; and put on new hardware. We think it will brighten up the kitchen - it's too dark! We also have some plans for cleaning up the ferns around the house and doing some fall yardwork! Hopefully the weather will cooperate!
David and Jeni were suppose to come into Huntington this week, but their plans had to be changed. We were looking forward to seeing them. Jeni is still sick, but the doctor says she and the baby are doing okay. We just pray that Jeni will soon feel better. We love you guys!
To all who read the blog, we hope and pray a good and safe week for all of you!
ANNNNND to all those WVU fans - wait till next year!!!!
Sunday, September 28, 2008
Sunday, September 21, 2008
Uncle Mack
Sunday – September 21, 2008
We have been posting pictures and memories of my family and so we decided to give a little history of the Hardin side of the family. We chose Uncle Mack to write about. Sorry Uncle Mack White – this is about Mack Hardin! Maybe one day it will be about you!!!!!!
Uncle Mack was the youngest of the Hardin clan. He was the ninth child of Harve and Angeline Hardin. He was born in Pike County Kentucky on November 25, 1915, but the family moved to Mingo County when Uncle Mack was very young. Bill was named after his grandfather – William Harvey Hardin. Needless to say, Bill does not use his middle name. Bill’s grandparents passed away before he was born. What he knows about them had been told by his father, Clyde, Uncle Mack, and older cousins.
Uncle Mack was injured in a truck accident when he was fifteen. He lost his left leg up to his hip joint and had some internal injuries which caused him to live the rest of his life with a tube attached to his bladder. The medical world was not what it is today back in the 30’s. Had modern medicine been available, I’m sure Uncle Mack would have had an artificial leg and would not have needed the tubes after reconstructive surgery. Even with all his injuries and disabilities, he still lived a full and productive life. He was 83 when he joined his Heavenly family. Uncle Mack believed with all his heart that God sent His Son to die for all our sins so that we could join him in Heaven. He loved his Lord and Savior.
Some may wonder as to why we would write about Uncle Mack first. There were many reasons, but one reason was that he was like a second father to Bill and his brothers. After Uncle Mack’s parents died, Clyde was the one who looked after his younger brother. For as long as Bill could remember, Uncle Mack lived with them. Uncle Mack used crutches and a wheelchair to get around. When Bill and his buddies would go out front to play ball in the street, Uncle Mack went out to play as well. He did not let having only one leg keep him from playing his favorite sport – baseball.
Uncle Mack bled blue and red. Blue was for Kentucky basketball and red for the Cincinnati Reds. Ahhh – some of you may have figured out why Bill loves Kentucky and the Reds! Yes, it was Uncle Mack who helped Bill become the die-hard Reds fan that he is today – win or lose – he loves his Redlegs! Bill said they would listen to the radio and Uncle Mack taught him how to keep score. This was something Uncle Mack loved to do, and it was something he could do with his little nephew. Bill was about five years old when he started keeping score with Uncle Mack while listening to the Cincinnati Reds. What memories! Bill was very close to his uncle. He talks about some of the meals Uncle Mack would fix for them and grins – one in particular included cornbread being made using boiling water. Not sure what that was, but Bill said they ate it and it was pretty good. Uncle Mack was a gamer – he would try anything and did not feel sorry for himself.
When the highrise was built in Williamson, Uncle Mack and Clyde decided it would be a good thing for him to move into one of the apartments that would be equipped for a person with his disabilities. I’m sure it was a hard move for both of them. They had been together since Uncle Mack’s birth in 1915, and now it was 1975. Clyde had been away from Uncle Mack during WWII, but Uncle Mack could tell us every move and place Clyde had been during the war. He was a walking book of knowledge of family history. After settling in to his new home, Uncle Mack made lots of friends. We never visited him that he always had someone stop by to chat with him or to check on him. He was well liked and loved by all who knew him.
Uncle Mack had two passions – Red’s games and the Democratic Party! Ohhhh, he loved to talk politics. He was a die-hard Democrat who had pictures of FDR, JFK, Rockefeller, and Bill Clinton on his wall. Should Uncle Mack say he was feeling “poorly” and you asked him a question about politics or the Reds – he would become focused on those topics and forget about feeling bad. We loved our visits with him, and we miss him very much.
If I had to sum up who Uncle Mack was I would have to say he was a very compassionate and caring man. He did not feel sorry for himself, and he did not allow anything to keep him from doing what he loved. He was a man who loved God and praised Him; he loved watching ball games on his TV; and he loved to keep an eye on the political events. He had a smile that just makes you warm inside, because he always had a happy smile!
The following pictures are of Uncle Mack with Clyde, his mother, Bill, and David.
The first picture is one we all love – Uncle Mack and Clyde – looks like they’ve been playing in the creek!(1921)
The second picture is Uncle Mack before the accident.
The third picture is of Uncle Mack and his mother probably taken at Lenore.(1950)
The fourth picture shows Clyde and Uncle Mack.
The last picture was taken on one of our visits with Uncle Mack at the highrise - Bill, David, and Uncle Mack.
We have been posting pictures and memories of my family and so we decided to give a little history of the Hardin side of the family. We chose Uncle Mack to write about. Sorry Uncle Mack White – this is about Mack Hardin! Maybe one day it will be about you!!!!!!
Uncle Mack was the youngest of the Hardin clan. He was the ninth child of Harve and Angeline Hardin. He was born in Pike County Kentucky on November 25, 1915, but the family moved to Mingo County when Uncle Mack was very young. Bill was named after his grandfather – William Harvey Hardin. Needless to say, Bill does not use his middle name. Bill’s grandparents passed away before he was born. What he knows about them had been told by his father, Clyde, Uncle Mack, and older cousins.
Uncle Mack was injured in a truck accident when he was fifteen. He lost his left leg up to his hip joint and had some internal injuries which caused him to live the rest of his life with a tube attached to his bladder. The medical world was not what it is today back in the 30’s. Had modern medicine been available, I’m sure Uncle Mack would have had an artificial leg and would not have needed the tubes after reconstructive surgery. Even with all his injuries and disabilities, he still lived a full and productive life. He was 83 when he joined his Heavenly family. Uncle Mack believed with all his heart that God sent His Son to die for all our sins so that we could join him in Heaven. He loved his Lord and Savior.
Some may wonder as to why we would write about Uncle Mack first. There were many reasons, but one reason was that he was like a second father to Bill and his brothers. After Uncle Mack’s parents died, Clyde was the one who looked after his younger brother. For as long as Bill could remember, Uncle Mack lived with them. Uncle Mack used crutches and a wheelchair to get around. When Bill and his buddies would go out front to play ball in the street, Uncle Mack went out to play as well. He did not let having only one leg keep him from playing his favorite sport – baseball.
Uncle Mack bled blue and red. Blue was for Kentucky basketball and red for the Cincinnati Reds. Ahhh – some of you may have figured out why Bill loves Kentucky and the Reds! Yes, it was Uncle Mack who helped Bill become the die-hard Reds fan that he is today – win or lose – he loves his Redlegs! Bill said they would listen to the radio and Uncle Mack taught him how to keep score. This was something Uncle Mack loved to do, and it was something he could do with his little nephew. Bill was about five years old when he started keeping score with Uncle Mack while listening to the Cincinnati Reds. What memories! Bill was very close to his uncle. He talks about some of the meals Uncle Mack would fix for them and grins – one in particular included cornbread being made using boiling water. Not sure what that was, but Bill said they ate it and it was pretty good. Uncle Mack was a gamer – he would try anything and did not feel sorry for himself.
When the highrise was built in Williamson, Uncle Mack and Clyde decided it would be a good thing for him to move into one of the apartments that would be equipped for a person with his disabilities. I’m sure it was a hard move for both of them. They had been together since Uncle Mack’s birth in 1915, and now it was 1975. Clyde had been away from Uncle Mack during WWII, but Uncle Mack could tell us every move and place Clyde had been during the war. He was a walking book of knowledge of family history. After settling in to his new home, Uncle Mack made lots of friends. We never visited him that he always had someone stop by to chat with him or to check on him. He was well liked and loved by all who knew him.
Uncle Mack had two passions – Red’s games and the Democratic Party! Ohhhh, he loved to talk politics. He was a die-hard Democrat who had pictures of FDR, JFK, Rockefeller, and Bill Clinton on his wall. Should Uncle Mack say he was feeling “poorly” and you asked him a question about politics or the Reds – he would become focused on those topics and forget about feeling bad. We loved our visits with him, and we miss him very much.
If I had to sum up who Uncle Mack was I would have to say he was a very compassionate and caring man. He did not feel sorry for himself, and he did not allow anything to keep him from doing what he loved. He was a man who loved God and praised Him; he loved watching ball games on his TV; and he loved to keep an eye on the political events. He had a smile that just makes you warm inside, because he always had a happy smile!
The following pictures are of Uncle Mack with Clyde, his mother, Bill, and David.
The first picture is one we all love – Uncle Mack and Clyde – looks like they’ve been playing in the creek!(1921)
The second picture is Uncle Mack before the accident.
The third picture is of Uncle Mack and his mother probably taken at Lenore.(1950)
The fourth picture shows Clyde and Uncle Mack.
The last picture was taken on one of our visits with Uncle Mack at the highrise - Bill, David, and Uncle Mack.
Thursday, September 18, 2008
Incognito
Thursday – September 18, 2008
I went down to Wayne Middle yesterday to visit my former colleagues and friends. Since I am no longer an employee, I followed the directions for all visitors and went to the office to “check in” and get a visitor’s pass. I stood there for a few moments before the secretary, Von, recognized me!! She was on the phone and glanced up three times before she realized it was me!! As I told her, I’ve only been gone for a year and already forgotten! In her defense, my hair is longer, I have new glasses, and I have lost a little weight! I guess where some of them haven’t seen me for a while it was a big change. For me, the change has just been minute – I live with it daily!
Von wanted me to hang around and see what Loren – the principal – would say when he saw me. He was behind closed doors – nothing strange, so I waited. Mr. Rash, the assistant principal came out of Loren’s office, did a double take, smiled and said hello. Then Loren came out, nodded in my directions and then glanced over again before he realized who it was. Makes you feel one of two ways – gone and forgotten, or changed and simply not as easily recognized. Just like the old saying – out of sight, out of mind! It was great to see them. They all decided that retirement was being good to me! In most ways it is! Especially when I heard the kids, watching them push and shove, and the bickering back and forth over some insignificant problem – at least to adults but not to the kids – retirement is being good to both Bill and me! No more school related stress!!!!
I was graciously told by Loren that I did not need a visitor’s pass and that I could be trusted! So, I walked down to the building where my room would have been had I still been teaching, and as I walked down the hall, Paul, a science teacher we have worked with for years, barely glanced toward me and entered another teacher’s room. I’ve known Paul’s family for years – his sister and I were in the same class in elementary school and our fathers worked together. I walked over to the door and asked him if he was “high hattin” me and ignoring me? He said I just saw someone coming down the hall and didn’t pay any attention as to who it was! Sure!!!!
At least Sherry knew who I was – but she was expecting me! It was a good feeling to know that the changes that have occurred are favorable. Hair and eye glasses are “cosmetic” and may only make me feel better inside. The weight loss (as small as it has been) hopefully will take care of the potential diabetic problem Bill and I are battling! We’re eating (most of the time) low fat, no sugar, fresh vegetables all in smaller portions. Bill has also lost weight – yeah! He has become accustomed to eating the no sugar added ice cream!
We thought it would be fun to post a “before” retirement picture and picture taken this summer to let you all see if there is a difference!
Hope you all are having a great day! God loves you and so do we!
I went down to Wayne Middle yesterday to visit my former colleagues and friends. Since I am no longer an employee, I followed the directions for all visitors and went to the office to “check in” and get a visitor’s pass. I stood there for a few moments before the secretary, Von, recognized me!! She was on the phone and glanced up three times before she realized it was me!! As I told her, I’ve only been gone for a year and already forgotten! In her defense, my hair is longer, I have new glasses, and I have lost a little weight! I guess where some of them haven’t seen me for a while it was a big change. For me, the change has just been minute – I live with it daily!
Von wanted me to hang around and see what Loren – the principal – would say when he saw me. He was behind closed doors – nothing strange, so I waited. Mr. Rash, the assistant principal came out of Loren’s office, did a double take, smiled and said hello. Then Loren came out, nodded in my directions and then glanced over again before he realized who it was. Makes you feel one of two ways – gone and forgotten, or changed and simply not as easily recognized. Just like the old saying – out of sight, out of mind! It was great to see them. They all decided that retirement was being good to me! In most ways it is! Especially when I heard the kids, watching them push and shove, and the bickering back and forth over some insignificant problem – at least to adults but not to the kids – retirement is being good to both Bill and me! No more school related stress!!!!
I was graciously told by Loren that I did not need a visitor’s pass and that I could be trusted! So, I walked down to the building where my room would have been had I still been teaching, and as I walked down the hall, Paul, a science teacher we have worked with for years, barely glanced toward me and entered another teacher’s room. I’ve known Paul’s family for years – his sister and I were in the same class in elementary school and our fathers worked together. I walked over to the door and asked him if he was “high hattin” me and ignoring me? He said I just saw someone coming down the hall and didn’t pay any attention as to who it was! Sure!!!!
At least Sherry knew who I was – but she was expecting me! It was a good feeling to know that the changes that have occurred are favorable. Hair and eye glasses are “cosmetic” and may only make me feel better inside. The weight loss (as small as it has been) hopefully will take care of the potential diabetic problem Bill and I are battling! We’re eating (most of the time) low fat, no sugar, fresh vegetables all in smaller portions. Bill has also lost weight – yeah! He has become accustomed to eating the no sugar added ice cream!
We thought it would be fun to post a “before” retirement picture and picture taken this summer to let you all see if there is a difference!
Hope you all are having a great day! God loves you and so do we!
Tuesday, September 16, 2008
Family
Tuesday – September 16, 2008
Hope all who read this are doing well! This seems to be the cheapest way to keep everyone informed on what’s going on with the family. The price of gas is about $0.30 higher than it was last Monday! Thanks Ike - we needed that! As I go through Lavalette towards Huntington, I start watching for the cheapest station – it’s hard to find one! I think Bill and I will find us a horse and buggy and start using it!
Mom had a doctor’s appointment today! Her blood pressure was up a little – but she tends to have elevated BP when she goes to the doctor – white coat syndrome! The doctor said it was better than her last visit which was good! However, her weight seems to keep going down! She weighs a whopping 111 pounds! The doctor suggested that she eat some “soup beans,” fried “taters,” and corn bread!! Mom thought that was hilarious! She told the doctor she had that meal at least once a week!!! We will just have to “fatten” her up a little!
Last Monday she went bowling with Billy and his girl friend, Jamie. Mom stopped bowling after having surgery on her right arm. She had not bowled in four years! Her eyesight is leaving her and she was afraid bowling would hurt her arm! Well, she decided to go with Billy and Jamie just to watch them! Billy coaxed her into bowling with them. Her first two balls rolled into the gutter! I’m sure she thought “Oh No!” On the next frame she made some adjustments and bingo – she hit the pins! She called when she got back home to tell me that she had beaten both Billy and Jamie!!! She thought this was great! She bowled two games over 100! This is not bad for an 88 year old lady who is losing her eyesight! Billy just shakes his head; grins; and lets everyone tease him – especially his dad, Dink!!! I have a question for my cousin, Michael Joe – “were you ever beaten by Mom when you bowled with her?”
Saturday was a day Mom and I visited Dink and Rhonda. We had a really great visit. Mom and Dink sat downstairs watching football games and talking while Rhonda and I were upstairs trying to get her mp3 player working! We had a great time talking, laughing, and reminiscing. We have all been down in the dumps since John’s passing and it felt good to laugh! I’m sure John and Dad were watching us and laughing with us! They were probably having a good laugh listening to us and all our laughter. Sometimes I feel guilty being able to laugh when others have nothing to help them laugh. God does provide us all with a means of relief; we just need to be able to recognize it and trust that He will help us all get through the sad times.
Rhonda also fixed us a $9.00 fried tomato sandwich!!!! Doesn’t sound good?? Well, you’re wrong – it was delicious! It was her and Dink’s version of the same type of sandwich found being sold at Tamarack. I haven’t tasted that one, but I can’t believe it could be any better than the one we had on Saturday. I would pass on the recipe, but Dink would probably charge me for giving away his version of the “fried tomato” sandwich!
David was in Wisconsin last week for a conference. He made it home safely. We were a little concerned that Ike might throw some of the inclement weather (mainly rain) towards him as he traveled back to Michigan. Jeni didn’t go with David on this trip. She went to work and was visited by her parents for a few days. I’m sure they had a nice visit and made the week go by faster for Jeni and Molly. Jeni is still feeling a sick. We pray that she will soon be over this “morning” sickness that seems to last most of the day.
I heard from a cousin of mine – Michael Joe – saying he really enjoyed reading the blog. That was so gratifying to hear. We also had a reader leave a positive note about the review we had written about the Bob Dylan concert. We are trying to write positive and uplifting postings. Granted some are sad, but they are written with the hope that they will help someone who is going through what our family has gone through. My father, Elmer J. Layne was a very positive person. Life had thrown a few curves at him, but he was never bitter – at least he didn’t let us see that bitterness. He was wounded while serving his country during WWII. He could have sat back on his laurels and held his hand out for someone else to take care of him. He was not that type of person. Once he was fitted with an artificial leg, he went to trade school and became a radio/TV repairman. He worked for over 34 years repairing and installing short wave radios, repairing TV’s and radios, and even putting up the “old time aerials” used for TV receptions. He is one of the reasons we want to be positive and optimistic about all we say and do.
The following pictures are of Mom taken this summer.
Mom watching the "Gaither's Show" on Saturday night.
Mom ready for church.
Mom and speedy - ready for church!!!!!! Sorry Speedy, you have to stay home!
The following pictures are just for you Michael Joe!
First picture are of Donetta, Sandy and me! oops - Sandy you've made the blog now!:)
Second picture is "old'Papaw (as you called him) and John putting up the post for the mailbox in front of Uncle Pete's.
Third picture is of Aunt Maltie, Aunt Delma, and Aunt Junia.
Fourth picture - you're right - your Papaw - Uncle Pete! If you look on the right you can see Kay!
Hope all who read this are doing well! This seems to be the cheapest way to keep everyone informed on what’s going on with the family. The price of gas is about $0.30 higher than it was last Monday! Thanks Ike - we needed that! As I go through Lavalette towards Huntington, I start watching for the cheapest station – it’s hard to find one! I think Bill and I will find us a horse and buggy and start using it!
Mom had a doctor’s appointment today! Her blood pressure was up a little – but she tends to have elevated BP when she goes to the doctor – white coat syndrome! The doctor said it was better than her last visit which was good! However, her weight seems to keep going down! She weighs a whopping 111 pounds! The doctor suggested that she eat some “soup beans,” fried “taters,” and corn bread!! Mom thought that was hilarious! She told the doctor she had that meal at least once a week!!! We will just have to “fatten” her up a little!
Last Monday she went bowling with Billy and his girl friend, Jamie. Mom stopped bowling after having surgery on her right arm. She had not bowled in four years! Her eyesight is leaving her and she was afraid bowling would hurt her arm! Well, she decided to go with Billy and Jamie just to watch them! Billy coaxed her into bowling with them. Her first two balls rolled into the gutter! I’m sure she thought “Oh No!” On the next frame she made some adjustments and bingo – she hit the pins! She called when she got back home to tell me that she had beaten both Billy and Jamie!!! She thought this was great! She bowled two games over 100! This is not bad for an 88 year old lady who is losing her eyesight! Billy just shakes his head; grins; and lets everyone tease him – especially his dad, Dink!!! I have a question for my cousin, Michael Joe – “were you ever beaten by Mom when you bowled with her?”
Saturday was a day Mom and I visited Dink and Rhonda. We had a really great visit. Mom and Dink sat downstairs watching football games and talking while Rhonda and I were upstairs trying to get her mp3 player working! We had a great time talking, laughing, and reminiscing. We have all been down in the dumps since John’s passing and it felt good to laugh! I’m sure John and Dad were watching us and laughing with us! They were probably having a good laugh listening to us and all our laughter. Sometimes I feel guilty being able to laugh when others have nothing to help them laugh. God does provide us all with a means of relief; we just need to be able to recognize it and trust that He will help us all get through the sad times.
Rhonda also fixed us a $9.00 fried tomato sandwich!!!! Doesn’t sound good?? Well, you’re wrong – it was delicious! It was her and Dink’s version of the same type of sandwich found being sold at Tamarack. I haven’t tasted that one, but I can’t believe it could be any better than the one we had on Saturday. I would pass on the recipe, but Dink would probably charge me for giving away his version of the “fried tomato” sandwich!
David was in Wisconsin last week for a conference. He made it home safely. We were a little concerned that Ike might throw some of the inclement weather (mainly rain) towards him as he traveled back to Michigan. Jeni didn’t go with David on this trip. She went to work and was visited by her parents for a few days. I’m sure they had a nice visit and made the week go by faster for Jeni and Molly. Jeni is still feeling a sick. We pray that she will soon be over this “morning” sickness that seems to last most of the day.
I heard from a cousin of mine – Michael Joe – saying he really enjoyed reading the blog. That was so gratifying to hear. We also had a reader leave a positive note about the review we had written about the Bob Dylan concert. We are trying to write positive and uplifting postings. Granted some are sad, but they are written with the hope that they will help someone who is going through what our family has gone through. My father, Elmer J. Layne was a very positive person. Life had thrown a few curves at him, but he was never bitter – at least he didn’t let us see that bitterness. He was wounded while serving his country during WWII. He could have sat back on his laurels and held his hand out for someone else to take care of him. He was not that type of person. Once he was fitted with an artificial leg, he went to trade school and became a radio/TV repairman. He worked for over 34 years repairing and installing short wave radios, repairing TV’s and radios, and even putting up the “old time aerials” used for TV receptions. He is one of the reasons we want to be positive and optimistic about all we say and do.
The following pictures are of Mom taken this summer.
Mom watching the "Gaither's Show" on Saturday night.
Mom ready for church.
Mom and speedy - ready for church!!!!!! Sorry Speedy, you have to stay home!
The following pictures are just for you Michael Joe!
First picture are of Donetta, Sandy and me! oops - Sandy you've made the blog now!:)
Second picture is "old'Papaw (as you called him) and John putting up the post for the mailbox in front of Uncle Pete's.
Third picture is of Aunt Maltie, Aunt Delma, and Aunt Junia.
Fourth picture - you're right - your Papaw - Uncle Pete! If you look on the right you can see Kay!
Thursday, September 11, 2008
The Tear in His Eye
Thursday - September 11, 2008
What does one say when this date of September 11 approaches? Most will say they remember where they were and what they were doing – just as those old enough remember what they were doing when President Kennedy was assassinated; when the Challenger broke apart that fateful morning of the launch; Martin Luther King and Bobby Kennedy’s assassinations; and the bombing of Pearl Harbor. There are so many things that have happened in our country’s history we couldn’t list them all. Some may have made more of an impact on us than others – but we remember!
Bill and I remember September 11th well. Our assistant principal came on the intercom and said we might want to watch what was taking place! It captivated the kids – some were scared, others watched it as if it were a movie; and some sat there in prayer! We left the televisions on for the remainder of the day with planned lessons now laid aside, and a life lesson being experienced. The kids had questions – but, we didn’t have the answers!
The next day the kids came back in telling of stories that they knew, or someone in their family knew someone on one of the planes or had been in the Towers. This made it more real to them. A teacher we worked with husband was in the Towers when both planes hit! I actually went to high school with him. God was with him and he had escaped from the 44th floor before the Towers collapsed! He was covered with all the soot and debris and had to walk at least 10 miles to his hotel. His family had gathered together and prayed until they heard from him which was not until later that evening. It was a life changing experience for him and his family.
Bill had a RESA trainee with him for an observation period so that he might be able to become a substitute teacher. He was as glued to the television as the kids were. Bill explained that sometimes you do have to put the book to the side and talk with the kids about what is happening now! Some parents came and picked up their children - the rest of us stayed until regular dismissal time. It was a very long and scary day.
As the day and evening went on, I found myself glued to the television coverage of what had happened – three planes causing three major catastrophes. I saw a veteran standing in the crowd with tears rolling down his cheek. He looked so sad and lost. It made me think of Dad, Bill's dad, and their generation as to what they had sacrificed for the freedom and safety we as Americans take for granted. What has happened to our country? Thus when I sat down, the poem underneath the following pictures of our fathers was written.
The following two pictures are of our fathers when they were overseas during WWII. It was becasue of men like them that we have the freedoms today that we take for gtanted! Thank you Dads and veterans from all across the country! My dad is in the picure on the left and he is in the middle - looks like they were digging a trench! Bill's dad is in the picture on the right. Also in that same picture is Bill's cousin - Ray Griffey. Ray is on the left and Clyde is on the right. Uncle and nephew met up while serving their country and protecting our shores while overseas.
The Tear in His Eye
The veteran represents a nation proud and strong;
Inspiring her to do what is right and not what's wrong.
Sadly he sits, and we are wondering as to why
This soldier of old has a tear in his eye.
Watching with disbelief so quietly, brave, and tall;
The nation he fought for is together for the good of all.
This obscured enemy will eventually learn about defeat
As God guides his nation back on her feet.
This veteran has witnessed her sufferings in the past,
Wars, assassinations, and the Oklahoma blast.
Now, we need not wonder why there's a tear in his eye,
As he watches the devastation that started in the sky.
The lives lost in Pennsylvania, Manhattan, and DC
Will not have died in vain, on this we all will agree.
So, to the veteran with the tear glistening in his eye,
We ask that you not worry on us you can rely.
The battles he fought helped mold us today;
The tear in his eye will now be wiped away.
His nation will comfort this veteran of old,
As the facts of what happened begin to unfold.
Phyllis Sue Hardin
What does one say when this date of September 11 approaches? Most will say they remember where they were and what they were doing – just as those old enough remember what they were doing when President Kennedy was assassinated; when the Challenger broke apart that fateful morning of the launch; Martin Luther King and Bobby Kennedy’s assassinations; and the bombing of Pearl Harbor. There are so many things that have happened in our country’s history we couldn’t list them all. Some may have made more of an impact on us than others – but we remember!
Bill and I remember September 11th well. Our assistant principal came on the intercom and said we might want to watch what was taking place! It captivated the kids – some were scared, others watched it as if it were a movie; and some sat there in prayer! We left the televisions on for the remainder of the day with planned lessons now laid aside, and a life lesson being experienced. The kids had questions – but, we didn’t have the answers!
The next day the kids came back in telling of stories that they knew, or someone in their family knew someone on one of the planes or had been in the Towers. This made it more real to them. A teacher we worked with husband was in the Towers when both planes hit! I actually went to high school with him. God was with him and he had escaped from the 44th floor before the Towers collapsed! He was covered with all the soot and debris and had to walk at least 10 miles to his hotel. His family had gathered together and prayed until they heard from him which was not until later that evening. It was a life changing experience for him and his family.
Bill had a RESA trainee with him for an observation period so that he might be able to become a substitute teacher. He was as glued to the television as the kids were. Bill explained that sometimes you do have to put the book to the side and talk with the kids about what is happening now! Some parents came and picked up their children - the rest of us stayed until regular dismissal time. It was a very long and scary day.
As the day and evening went on, I found myself glued to the television coverage of what had happened – three planes causing three major catastrophes. I saw a veteran standing in the crowd with tears rolling down his cheek. He looked so sad and lost. It made me think of Dad, Bill's dad, and their generation as to what they had sacrificed for the freedom and safety we as Americans take for granted. What has happened to our country? Thus when I sat down, the poem underneath the following pictures of our fathers was written.
The following two pictures are of our fathers when they were overseas during WWII. It was becasue of men like them that we have the freedoms today that we take for gtanted! Thank you Dads and veterans from all across the country! My dad is in the picure on the left and he is in the middle - looks like they were digging a trench! Bill's dad is in the picture on the right. Also in that same picture is Bill's cousin - Ray Griffey. Ray is on the left and Clyde is on the right. Uncle and nephew met up while serving their country and protecting our shores while overseas.
The Tear in His Eye
The veteran represents a nation proud and strong;
Inspiring her to do what is right and not what's wrong.
Sadly he sits, and we are wondering as to why
This soldier of old has a tear in his eye.
Watching with disbelief so quietly, brave, and tall;
The nation he fought for is together for the good of all.
This obscured enemy will eventually learn about defeat
As God guides his nation back on her feet.
This veteran has witnessed her sufferings in the past,
Wars, assassinations, and the Oklahoma blast.
Now, we need not wonder why there's a tear in his eye,
As he watches the devastation that started in the sky.
The lives lost in Pennsylvania, Manhattan, and DC
Will not have died in vain, on this we all will agree.
So, to the veteran with the tear glistening in his eye,
We ask that you not worry on us you can rely.
The battles he fought helped mold us today;
The tear in his eye will now be wiped away.
His nation will comfort this veteran of old,
As the facts of what happened begin to unfold.
Phyllis Sue Hardin
Wednesday, September 10, 2008
Great day; So, So Day
Wednesday - September 10, 2008
Great day; So, So Day
It has been a great day because Dink was released from the hospital. Rhonda called 911 yesterday morning because Dink was having difficulty breathing. He really didn’t want to go by ambulance, but Rhonda convinced him it would be in his best interest (and her and Bobby’s) to travel to the hospital via ambulance! If he were in the midst of a heart attack, they would be able to help if there was a need. Thankfully he was not having a heart attack. He was kept in the emergency room for a very long time until a room became available last night. I asked them this morning if he slept and the reply was “NO.” “But wait till we get home!” Anyone who has had to stay in the hospital overnight knows either as a patient or staying with a patient there is NO sleep for the sick! There is always someone coming to take blood, check blood pressure, and give you your medicine and even the noise from the hallway. Busy, busy, busy! They treated him for pneumonia, congestive heart failure, and were watching him for the possibility for a blood clot. Thankfully with the grace of God and the power of prayer, Dink went home this morning!
Yesterday afternoon as I was standing at the foot of his bed, he told me it was my fault!! Just like my big brother to blame me! He said it was my fault because of the blog! Okay, anyone who reads this – don’t tell Dink he has made the blog again!!!!!!! I’m just so thankful he is home and things are going better for him!
If my brothers did not tease me – I would worry! They come by it honestly. Our grandfather was a quiet man – I always thought he was as big as Paul Bunyan – a giant of a man who could do anything! He would tease us and play little jokes on all of us all the time – seems to me that John and I got teased the most. Maybe we were a little more gullible????? Papaw would have us look away from our plates for various reasons and then he would hide the plate when we were not looking. He would just sit there as if nothing had happened! Papaw was a giant of a man – one who was loved by us all.
Dad was a lot like Papaw in the teasing department. (He was also as big as Paul Bunyan in my eyes!) He loved to tease everyone – especially the grandkids!!! Sometimes when the kids get together we tell Papaw and Uncle John stories. Dad loved to give Mom a hard time as well. Every evening he would sit in the floor and inch his way toward her on the other side of the room. He loved to grab her toes – which he knew she hated!! My brothers are a lot like my grandfather and dad. They are quiet (to a certain degree) and they love to tease the kids, their one and only sister, and mother!!!!!!!! I’m sure they tease their spouses as well which is a Layne trait! You might be wondering if I inherited any of these characteristics. I could say I am the one who is serious all the time, never laughs, never teases, and has no sense of humor, but I can’t because that would be a lie. I, too, have the same sense of humor and way of teasing as my brothers. We may not have had a lot when growing up, but we had a lot of laughter (and love) in our home!
With Dink being home and still with that sense of humor and teasing all around him, it has been a great, great day. Hopefully he and Rhonda will be able to get a good night’s sleep tonight!
The “so, so day” refers to me and my back! Yes, to those who know the history of my sciatica nerve know that it has given me fits the last three years. Today I twisted the wrong way, and woe is me – the pain. The good thing is that I have enough sense now to get to the doctor BEFORE the pain really starts. My back was out of line, and boy is that muscle sore! Hopefully if I watch what I do, the pain will soon be gone again! I was really doing well, and I hope to be back on that road again soon!!!!!!
After writing about the teasing, joking, and laughter in our family, I looked up some quotes about laughter and would like to share some with you. Days that are full of laughter, love, and fun with family have been the best days to remember – and oh have we had many days with that laughter. Hope you enjoy them – they can give us all food for thought!
The most wasted of all days is one without laughter. ~e.e. cummings
Laughter is the sun that drives winter from the human face. ~Victor Hugo
An optimist laughs to forget, a pessimist forgets to laugh. ~anonymous
Laughter is the spark of the soul. ~ anonymous
You can turn painful situations around through laughter. If you can find humor in anything, even poverty, you can survive. ~ Bill Cosby
A smile starts on the lips. A grin spreads to the eyes. A chuckle comes from the belly. But a good laugh bursts from the soul overflows, and bubbles all around. ~ Carolyn Birmingham
The human race has one really effective weapon, and that is laughter. ~ Mark Twain
The following pictures show how Dad and Dink loved to tease Mom! The last picture is of my grandfather (on the left) with his brother Uncle Sam.
Great day; So, So Day
It has been a great day because Dink was released from the hospital. Rhonda called 911 yesterday morning because Dink was having difficulty breathing. He really didn’t want to go by ambulance, but Rhonda convinced him it would be in his best interest (and her and Bobby’s) to travel to the hospital via ambulance! If he were in the midst of a heart attack, they would be able to help if there was a need. Thankfully he was not having a heart attack. He was kept in the emergency room for a very long time until a room became available last night. I asked them this morning if he slept and the reply was “NO.” “But wait till we get home!” Anyone who has had to stay in the hospital overnight knows either as a patient or staying with a patient there is NO sleep for the sick! There is always someone coming to take blood, check blood pressure, and give you your medicine and even the noise from the hallway. Busy, busy, busy! They treated him for pneumonia, congestive heart failure, and were watching him for the possibility for a blood clot. Thankfully with the grace of God and the power of prayer, Dink went home this morning!
Yesterday afternoon as I was standing at the foot of his bed, he told me it was my fault!! Just like my big brother to blame me! He said it was my fault because of the blog! Okay, anyone who reads this – don’t tell Dink he has made the blog again!!!!!!! I’m just so thankful he is home and things are going better for him!
If my brothers did not tease me – I would worry! They come by it honestly. Our grandfather was a quiet man – I always thought he was as big as Paul Bunyan – a giant of a man who could do anything! He would tease us and play little jokes on all of us all the time – seems to me that John and I got teased the most. Maybe we were a little more gullible????? Papaw would have us look away from our plates for various reasons and then he would hide the plate when we were not looking. He would just sit there as if nothing had happened! Papaw was a giant of a man – one who was loved by us all.
Dad was a lot like Papaw in the teasing department. (He was also as big as Paul Bunyan in my eyes!) He loved to tease everyone – especially the grandkids!!! Sometimes when the kids get together we tell Papaw and Uncle John stories. Dad loved to give Mom a hard time as well. Every evening he would sit in the floor and inch his way toward her on the other side of the room. He loved to grab her toes – which he knew she hated!! My brothers are a lot like my grandfather and dad. They are quiet (to a certain degree) and they love to tease the kids, their one and only sister, and mother!!!!!!!! I’m sure they tease their spouses as well which is a Layne trait! You might be wondering if I inherited any of these characteristics. I could say I am the one who is serious all the time, never laughs, never teases, and has no sense of humor, but I can’t because that would be a lie. I, too, have the same sense of humor and way of teasing as my brothers. We may not have had a lot when growing up, but we had a lot of laughter (and love) in our home!
With Dink being home and still with that sense of humor and teasing all around him, it has been a great, great day. Hopefully he and Rhonda will be able to get a good night’s sleep tonight!
The “so, so day” refers to me and my back! Yes, to those who know the history of my sciatica nerve know that it has given me fits the last three years. Today I twisted the wrong way, and woe is me – the pain. The good thing is that I have enough sense now to get to the doctor BEFORE the pain really starts. My back was out of line, and boy is that muscle sore! Hopefully if I watch what I do, the pain will soon be gone again! I was really doing well, and I hope to be back on that road again soon!!!!!!
After writing about the teasing, joking, and laughter in our family, I looked up some quotes about laughter and would like to share some with you. Days that are full of laughter, love, and fun with family have been the best days to remember – and oh have we had many days with that laughter. Hope you enjoy them – they can give us all food for thought!
The most wasted of all days is one without laughter. ~e.e. cummings
Laughter is the sun that drives winter from the human face. ~Victor Hugo
An optimist laughs to forget, a pessimist forgets to laugh. ~anonymous
Laughter is the spark of the soul. ~ anonymous
You can turn painful situations around through laughter. If you can find humor in anything, even poverty, you can survive. ~ Bill Cosby
A smile starts on the lips. A grin spreads to the eyes. A chuckle comes from the belly. But a good laugh bursts from the soul overflows, and bubbles all around. ~ Carolyn Birmingham
The human race has one really effective weapon, and that is laughter. ~ Mark Twain
The following pictures show how Dad and Dink loved to tease Mom! The last picture is of my grandfather (on the left) with his brother Uncle Sam.
Sunday, September 7, 2008
So Sad - So Glad
Sunday, August 7, 2008
So sad; so glad
Crying days; happy days
Lonely times; family all around
Death so soon; baby’s first light
Heartbreaking; heartwarming
Oh so sorrowful; living for tomorrow
Tears of regret; tears of joy
Beating heart stops; a new one starts
Tears of pain; and tears of joy
Life will pass; time will go on
In God’s word the book of Ecclesiastes Ch 7:14 it says that “When times are good, be happy; but when times are bad, consider: God has made the one as well as the other . . . ."
It has been a little over a month since John left his family here on earth to join his heavenly family. Some days are so sad while others are so full of joy and gladness. How can this be I ask myself? My pen went to work writing some of these differences I have felt this last month.
The sadness and many words that express how sad one can feel have revolved around the passing of John – in my eyes so young, but then who am I to say that. Within the last month there have been others who have passed away and were a lot younger than John. How those families must feel! A former student who was only 22 years old left the world after battling a brain tumor since she was in high school. Another former student lost his mother who had battled cancer and was only 54. When God calls each of us home, age makes no difference. We (I) need to remember that God is with us when times are good and bad. My family isn’t the only one who has lost a loved one recently – how do you measure recently? Is it a week, a month, a year, or is there no way to measure the time? We still miss Dad, Bill’s parents, our grandparents, cousins, aunts, uncles, and friends who have gone home before us! Time will never take away the hurt of losing a loved one – it just becomes a part of our everyday life. It is a numb feeling that we have learned to live with and endure. As we have gotten older, it seems that the visits to the funeral homes are becoming more frequent and harder to do.
This past month has also been one of celebration and joy. The first grandchild is now a reality. David and Jeni have shared the great news that this awaited event will take place around March 29! Their first doctor’s appointment was one of such joy – especially for them because they got to hear the baby’s heartbeat for the first time. What a joy that had to be for them. They also “saw” the baby when the ultrasound was developed (which was shared with all the grandparents). These are the happy times! Also, David and Jeni were able to see their nephew for the first time! I know how they must have felt when they held him. There is nothing as heartfelt as the joy of cuddling a new born in your arms and praying that all will be good for them as they grow into adulthood.
Whatever happens, we all need to remember that the good Lord above is always with us during every phase of our life. We must put our trust and faith in Him and know that He will never put more on us than we can bear! There is a reason we have the good and the bad times in our lives. Both should help us put our faith where in needs to be - with our Heavenly Father – He sent His only Son to die on the cross for us. How hard in our humanly ways would that be – your ONLY Son?
As we end this posting our prayer is that all who read this know that you are never alone!!!!
So sad; so glad
Crying days; happy days
Lonely times; family all around
Death so soon; baby’s first light
Heartbreaking; heartwarming
Oh so sorrowful; living for tomorrow
Tears of regret; tears of joy
Beating heart stops; a new one starts
Tears of pain; and tears of joy
Life will pass; time will go on
In God’s word the book of Ecclesiastes Ch 7:14 it says that “When times are good, be happy; but when times are bad, consider: God has made the one as well as the other . . . ."
It has been a little over a month since John left his family here on earth to join his heavenly family. Some days are so sad while others are so full of joy and gladness. How can this be I ask myself? My pen went to work writing some of these differences I have felt this last month.
The sadness and many words that express how sad one can feel have revolved around the passing of John – in my eyes so young, but then who am I to say that. Within the last month there have been others who have passed away and were a lot younger than John. How those families must feel! A former student who was only 22 years old left the world after battling a brain tumor since she was in high school. Another former student lost his mother who had battled cancer and was only 54. When God calls each of us home, age makes no difference. We (I) need to remember that God is with us when times are good and bad. My family isn’t the only one who has lost a loved one recently – how do you measure recently? Is it a week, a month, a year, or is there no way to measure the time? We still miss Dad, Bill’s parents, our grandparents, cousins, aunts, uncles, and friends who have gone home before us! Time will never take away the hurt of losing a loved one – it just becomes a part of our everyday life. It is a numb feeling that we have learned to live with and endure. As we have gotten older, it seems that the visits to the funeral homes are becoming more frequent and harder to do.
This past month has also been one of celebration and joy. The first grandchild is now a reality. David and Jeni have shared the great news that this awaited event will take place around March 29! Their first doctor’s appointment was one of such joy – especially for them because they got to hear the baby’s heartbeat for the first time. What a joy that had to be for them. They also “saw” the baby when the ultrasound was developed (which was shared with all the grandparents). These are the happy times! Also, David and Jeni were able to see their nephew for the first time! I know how they must have felt when they held him. There is nothing as heartfelt as the joy of cuddling a new born in your arms and praying that all will be good for them as they grow into adulthood.
Whatever happens, we all need to remember that the good Lord above is always with us during every phase of our life. We must put our trust and faith in Him and know that He will never put more on us than we can bear! There is a reason we have the good and the bad times in our lives. Both should help us put our faith where in needs to be - with our Heavenly Father – He sent His only Son to die on the cross for us. How hard in our humanly ways would that be – your ONLY Son?
As we end this posting our prayer is that all who read this know that you are never alone!!!!
Tuesday, September 2, 2008
Happy Birthday Dink!
Tuesday, September 2, 2007
What do you say to your oldest brother on his birthday? Happy Birthday Dink! This doesn’t really tell you how much you are loved – regardless of all the hard times you have given me through the years. You are the big brother, John, Mike, and I have always looked up to – even though we may not have told you that!
I remember when John and I were first graders and we thought it was so neat to have a big brother out on the playground with us. Little did we know that we had embarrassed you by running up and saying “Hi Dinky!” Woe is me - we had NO idea you went by the name of Bill when at school! You came home and told Mom to tell us NOT to call you Dink or Dinky at school. So the next day, we saw you on the playground and we just waved at you! We didn’t call you Dink at school anymore. It wasn’t until we were older that we realized you weren’t ashamed of us – just that you wanted to be called Bill at school. We never did call you Bill at school or at home – you will always be Dink!
I also remember how much of a protector you were – especially with Mike! When he was little, you always took his part with the neighbors who thought they could pick on him because he was so much smaller. Look at him now – he can protect us all!
We were the two who always went up in the “holler” to stay with Mamaw and Papaw. You were there to help in the fields and the garden, and I was to help at the house. But somehow, I ended up helping both in the house, the garden, and even the hay field. Those were really the “good old days” and I wouldn’t change anything about what we did.
I hope and pray that you have had a great birthday! You have a wonderful family – Rhonda, Billy, and Bobby who love you so much! Don’t forget that Mom, Mike, and I love you as much. I know that if John were here he would have called to say happy birthday as well.
So from all who love you – Happy Birthday Dink!!!!!!
So from all who love you – Happy Birthday Dink!!!!!!
Oh yeah, I forgot to say I’m posting some pictures! Hope you enjoy them!
Monday, September 1, 2008
Hillsdale Visit
August 23 – 28, 2008
After our side trip to Cincinnati we headed up to Hillsdale, Michigan. Hillsdale is a quaint small town about an hour from Toledo, Ohio. Once we cross the border into MI, we only have about 20 – 25 minutes to reach David and Jeni’s. It was great to see them. David had a dinner he was to attend and Jeni didn’t feel well enough to go. So, David and Bill went off with a member of the church for the evening, and Jeni and I had a relaxing evening talking. She is still experiencing “morning sickness” and it seems to stay with her most of the day. She is hoping once she gets through the first trimester she will start feeling better.
After our side trip to Cincinnati we headed up to Hillsdale, Michigan. Hillsdale is a quaint small town about an hour from Toledo, Ohio. Once we cross the border into MI, we only have about 20 – 25 minutes to reach David and Jeni’s. It was great to see them. David had a dinner he was to attend and Jeni didn’t feel well enough to go. So, David and Bill went off with a member of the church for the evening, and Jeni and I had a relaxing evening talking. She is still experiencing “morning sickness” and it seems to stay with her most of the day. She is hoping once she gets through the first trimester she will start feeling better.
Jeni works at Hillsdale College, so she was working during most of our visit. The students first day back to school was the Wednesday we were there. David works from home preparing his sermons for the congregation of Bankers Baptist Church. They both work hard and do a good job.
We were entertained by Molly, the lovable beagle. She is a sweetheart with the biggest and saddest looking eyes – especially when she would like to have a bite of whatever it might be you are eating! We have some really good “Molly pictures” we are going to share with you. She gives a lot of joy to David and Jeni. The following pictures show how adorable Molly can be! (and pitiful when looking for the little bit of leftovers!)
We also played bocce while we there. Bill and I had bought the set when at the beach, but had never played it. So one evening after supper we all went across the road to church’s park and played. This is a nice relaxing game that does not require a lot of physical activity. You do have to bend over and pick up the balls you have thrown and walk around, but no running! We really didn’t keep score, but I think I may have won!!!!! We got really tickled because when Jeni threw her ball she hit Bill’s and knocked it further away from the little ball several times. The object of the game is to see who can throw their ball closest to the little ball which is thrown first. It was a very enjoyable evening.
While there, Jeni got news from her sister that she was on her way to the hospital. On August 28, 2008 at 2:16 Riley James Abrusci was born. We want to say congratulations to Ruthie and Jamie. Sophia is now a big sister and the pictures we have seen are adorable. David and Jeni were heading south on Sunday so they could say hello to Riley James.
During the month of April there will be a caravan heading north to hold the new born of David and Jeni. A little over twelve years ago we started having little ones around – it was the beginning of John’s grandchildren – starting with Emily and at present the youngest being Ali G. David and Jeni’s baby will give Mom nine great-grandchildren. We are so happy for them and pray all goes well for Jeni and the baby.
We hope that all have had a great weekend with family and friends. Cherish those moments.
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