For Ardith's Sake....

Just so the one offspring who couldn't come to the reunion wouldn't feel too left out, I thought it would be appropriate to give an accounting of some of the things that haven't been all that fun:

Nolan and Trevor sitting beside each other on the way down....directly behind ME...
"Me want those. (Trevor referring to binoculars hanging idle around Nolan's neck)

(Nolan quickly whips them into action) "Just a minute. I'm using them."

*huge sigh from harried mother* "OK. You have two more minutes. Then it's his turn."

[repeat this....oh....about half a gazillion times, alternating between the two boys]

"Are we there, yet?"

[repeat this a gazillion times]

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Moby Dick (the 15 passenger van) started making a suspicious noise on the way to the church for talent night. Your father looked in review mirror and saw wheel wobbling precariously...."Oh NO!....."

Apparently, when we had the tires changed at the tire place, someone forgot to tighten down the lug nuts on the left rear. We barely managed to stop, evade a ditch, and back up into a driveway without the wheel falling completely off. It was re-affixed and tightened down. The verdict? The loosened lug nuts allowed the axle to loosen more than normal, allowing oil to leak into the one brake. (in addition to the wheel almost falling off) So, the brake, seal, lug nuts and studs were replaced. (the next day) For a mere ***** hundred dollars. At least we only missed 35 minutes of talent night. And the kids only complained a *cough* little bit about sitting in a hot van and missing 35 minutes of talent night.

So, you see, it has not all been hunky dory. Even as I type, most everyone is off to the pool. Let's hope Ethan doesn't get in over his head, again, and have to be rescued by Aunt Elizabeth, again. Meanwhile, votre chère maman, who is NOT at the pool, is feeding her blogging addiction, and waiting for Trevor to awaken from his nap, and hoping Nolan (who cannot go swimming because of his cast) has not dismantled too many items in the second story level.

Come to think of it, it's been awfully quiet up there.....

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More Reunion Shenanigans

Wow, where to start...*pats bloated tummy*

Well, last night was the annual reunion talent show. I am always amazed at:
a)who comes up with great stuff at the last minute, and,
b)who has been in preparation for SIX MONTHS on various productions

This year our family fell into category "a," but without the adjective "great."
A contribution that qualifies for category "b" was "Detective Dark: Possibly the Masked Man." It's astounding what 3 young men from Oklahoma, ages 15-22 can come up with.

There was the usual mixture of talented pianists, vocalists and slow motion kung fu artists. Let me correct that.....slow motion fake kung fu artists.

"Ma" got up and braved almost certain humiliation by doing a group instructional sing of the Vonage cell phone theme. ("doot doot, doot doot doot....") I was going to halt our silly contributions with that, but when my aspiring pianist/composer nephew went up for his second piano number, I decided enough was ENOUGH, and played a piece I have worked on haphazardly over the years since high school, "Georgia Porqupine." Trevor added impromptu choreography by going up to the front and sporadically "shooting" people with his finger. Then the brother and sister team of Anson and Laura came up to finish off the boogie number with a little swing dancing.

It's probably good that we'll be leaving town, soon.
______________________
(Wed morning) After surviving the bane of all reunions, family pictures, it was time for the most important activity of the day, LADIES DAY OUT :-) On the itinerary, lunch and shopping opportunities at the "Whistle Stop Cafe," just down the road, in Julliette, Georgia. If you are thinking, "Hey, isn't that the town where they filmed the movie, "Fried Green Tomatoes?" the answer is, YES! And what's more, the courthouse scenes were taken from the commanding official edifice located right here in Forsythe, where we are staying. The celebrity allure of "Ma," just keeps on accruing. (autographs will be available at the end of the trip, for a nominal fee, of course)

After perusing the quaint shops with overpriced items, we stepped into the cafe, famously renamed after the movie. Naturally, most of us ordered something with green tomatoes. Myself? A scrumptious fried green tomato sandwich: batter fried green tomatoes, on light rye bread, with mayo, lettuce and onions. Vi-DAL-ia onions. YUM! And, gourmet ketchup in which to dip my fries, which had been sprinkled with cheese and bacon bits. Oh yes, sweetened ice tea, in COPIOUS amounts, thanks to free refills. I was contemplating pound cake with fresh fruit for dessert, but, since they were out of that, I was literally FORCED to take a lovely and delectible wedge of chocolate cake. You know what I mean.....three layers, thick frosting, and large curls of chocolate over all.

It was so beautiful, I took a picture. I was almost able to finish the chocolate confection, but the ladies at my table were telling such stories of gluttony that I felt undue peer pressure to feign temperance, and I left three bites, uneaten and forlorn.

On the porch outside, an ardent suitor got down on one knee and popped "the question" to his beloved. Either that, or he was looking for his contact lens.

As we exited the cafe, a visiting railroad buff directed our attention to a nearby tree, where 8-10 turkey buzzards perched, awaiting road kill from passing trains. I took a picture of them, too. I'm trying to work them into a montage, that would morph into a picture of the teen boys waiting around the supper table....

No...I take that back. The vultures bear a remarkable likeness (in spirit) to Loren, waiting for me to get off the computer :-)

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We're So BAD.....

So, today is the reunion ritual where the guys go out to "Little Piggies," to eat. Something having to do with pork, I believe. Too bad Loren just ate breakfast 45 minutes before they left, but maybe he can give a supporting "oink," or two.

Now, I signed up for the lunch duty, for those of us who would be here. (several of the middle aged children went off to a local Vacation Bible School program until 2 p.m.) The fact that there would be relatively few people about had NOTHING WHATSOEVER to do with my signing up for this slot on the duty roster. There was an empty place, and naturally, the altruistic nature of "Ma" set in, and I volunteered. It would be the usual tasty display of lunch meats, cheeses, etc.

However, it was brought to our attention by my lovely sister-in-law, Lauri Anne-who, by the way, shares my inherent sensibility for fair play-that on the morrow, when the ladies have their day out, the guys were going to have pizza! Yes, you can immediately see the disparity, just as we did!

Well, I'm not sure exactly who's idea this was *cough* but someone suggested we keep the cold cuts on ice, and order pizza for US, instead. This suggestion was READILY seconded and thirded, forthwith. It was even offered that perhaps calling the pizzeria and canceling the men's order for the next day would be appropriate.....but......we are nothing, if not ever so slightly compassionate to our beloved menfolk.

I'm sure any reasonable person(s) would have done the same.

And now, I must go, for I am responsible for lunch, and, there is SOOOOOOOO much to do....

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Georgia Peaches

(First of all, I would just like to say, DAD, that YES, we arrived here safely :-)

We have survived the first two days of the Hoyt reunion. So far, I would say it is a smashing success, in that, Nolan's leg cast is still intact, no one has gotten more than one bite from a fire ant, (and Derek, I think you got off easy considering what you guys were doing to those ant hills) and, most of all, I just picked up two more bags of Dove's Dark Chocolate. So, no matter what happens, I have the serotonin to cover it. For a few days, anyway.

Next, I would hasten to say, to all my relatives, that, no matter WHAT I discourse on, here, we are having a wonderful time. Certain literary liberties may be taken, solely in the interest of providing more.....mmmmm......interest.

I've decided that a daily update on the food is most definitely in order, if only to drive poor Moore into a frenzy. Moore, being a most congenial chap from LeTourneau, who, despite his gracious manners, will go down in the history of my children, as being the one who quaffed the last of the lemonade from Ardith's graduation party.

Last night: Taco Salad--a Hoyt reunion favorite. Would you believe some of these folks put rice and, get this, COCONUT in it?

Tonight: Shrimp and Grits--something tells me we're not in Iowa, any more. In the event that Loren and I survive tonight's repast, I shall make every attempt to share a picture of said seafood.

This being Georgia, and this being peach season, the planned activity of the day was to visit "The Peach Shed." Naturally, one's first assumption would take this to be a grotto-like apparition, made entirely out of peach stones. Amazingly enough, this assumption was wrong!

After a three hour drive in the country (OK, it was only 30 minutes, but it seemed like three hours) we arrived in the little town of Musella, where we turned the corner and beheld the striking visage of "The Musella Gin and Cotton Co."
Hmmmm....Gin, Cotton and Peaches. Sounded like an amusing little cocktail.

Oh, WAIT! "Dickey's Peach Co." was right beside it.....OK....now I understand.

A call had been placed beforehand, to assure that we would be able to observe the operations of peaches being put into boxes, and ferried round and about on conveyor belts in most interesting fashion. Fun and educational for the kiddies.

Unfortunately, some time before our arrival, the machinery broke down. BUT, they were still selling fresh peach ice cream :-) YUM! (did you get that, Moore? FRESH....PEACH.....ICE CREAM!!)

What a shame a couple of my kids could not finish theirs, literally FORCING me to consume satisfying quantities of creamy.....fresh......soft serve peach ice cream. *happy sigh*

Nolan and Trevor and I got to watch a forklift operator, so, really, it was not a bad deal. After that, another trip home, a little nappy for Trevor and I, and then, I GOT TO KICK LOREN OFF HIS BROTHER STAN'S COMPUTER SO I COULD BLOG :-)

Reunions. It just doesn't get any better than this.

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Father's Day, Part 3

A gentle and learned man passed away, on May 31, 2005.

Succumbing to cancer at age 83, Irwin J. Suloway was the father of Ann, who is married to my brother, Tim.

I used to call him "Mr. Suloway," in our emails, but he soon asked me to call him "Irwin," so that is what I will do. Sadly enough, I did not keep up emailing him for long, and I am the poorer for it.

Irwin was quite knowledgeable in the areas of English and related topics. I imagine one might get that way, if they obtain a Master's and a Doctorate in Victorian Literature. Apparently, the Chicago Teacher's College (later Chicago University) felt the same way, for that institution enjoyed him as a lecturer, Assistant Dean in charge of publications, and eventually, Dean of faculty.

But, these positions of importance did not detract from his kind and gracious nature. He was an attentive listener, and enjoyable to listen to. You could tell he loved learning in general, and he spoke knowledgeably on a variety of subjects. I do wish I had availed myself of the opportunity to communicate with him, more often.

[lesson #1--do not neglect to mine the wisdom of people who know things. People who have lived]

Irwin and his wife, Elaine, were avid concert goers, and traveled to Canada each year for the Shakespeare Festival. I had a chance to go there, once, in college. At the last minute, I opted out. I had a combined recital to prepare for, and the overnight stay would likely subtract substantially from my practice time. Well, my performance was irrevocably mediocre, and I wonder if I did not make the wrong decision.

[lesson #2--do not neglect quality cultural opportunities while in college, for you may never see them again]

After Elaine died, in 2003, our family was privileged to receive a visit from my brother Tim, wife Ann, and their son Asher. Irwin came along with, for he was pursuing some research on his family's history, in southern Iowa. He was in his early 80's and still educating himself.

[lesson #3--one should never graduate from the process of learning]

We talked for awhile, around the kitchen table. I got the impression that he did not go out to concerts, nearly as much. It wasn't the same, without that perfectly matched partner to share the experience, without a cherished companion with which to compare observations.

[lesson #4--do not neglect (husbands and wives) to nurture one another through activities outside of the home]

Irwin J. Suloway was also active in the Chicago Jewish Historical Society. The quarterly, "Chicago Jewish History," had Irwin as its editor for ten years. (If you go here, and scroll to page 14, you will see an article and picture) I am certain he contributed writings to other magazines and journals, as well. A brief bio/tribute of this cultured gentleman can be found in the Chicago Tribune.

Husband, father, grandfather, lecturer, administrator, writer. Just a few of the many hats Irwin Suloway so capably wore.

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It's Crunch Time

Saturday is the BIG day....we leave Iowa for a week and a half, swinging down to Georgia for the Hoyt reunion, then up to Indiana for convergence with the the Baker clan. ("convergence" was my brother's wording, not mine:-)

Accomplished this week:

-air conditioning on van fixed
-last four kids to the dentist....NO CAVITIES!
-Nolan to the eye-doctor....needs glasses, but not as blind as previously feared
-much laundry done. Now, if people would just stop dirtying more clothes....
-motel reservation made, somewhere in Kentucky, I think...
-weeded flower beds, and one garden bed
-boys picked up their bedroom. Rumor has it parts of the floor are now visible
-finished half of church cleaning work
-stopped mail delivery after Friday

Yet to be accomplished before leaving on Saturday at 7:00 a.m.:

-mow entire lawn (six hours minimum...between Jason and I/me, whatever)
-finish work at church (less than 2 hours)
-fix leak in basement pipe that was just discovered...Thank GOODNESS this falls into Loren's jurisdiction.....1 hour job (if nothing goes wrong---DONE before 10:30!)
-finish laundry and pack
-stow bags onto van the night before
-water all house plants and mutter a few prayers for same
-clean entire house (OK. That was a joke. I'll aim for one room and/or the kitchen floor)
-don't forget anything

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Iowa.....

.....not just for corn and soybeans, anymore.

(I have a feeling "someone" may soon be sorry he bought me this camera) *evil grin*

Hmmmm....I wonder if the Iowa Commission for Bringing Gullible Tourists Into the State has any vacancies?

OR...we could run a little Bed and Breakfast place. Give people the chance to experience the ambiance of country life in little ol' Iowa. They could get "hands on" involvement in a number of areas: agriculture, (weeding the garden) antique farm machinery operation, (mowing the lawn with a push mower) animal husbandry/pest control (chasing down mice, crickets, ladybugs....) Oh, the list could go on and on.

PLUS, we could also offer classes in "Basic Computer Instruction," "Multi-player Gaming Techniques," and, my personal favorite, "How to Drive a Non-Techie Wife Crazy."

All this, while immersed in the ultimate macro-dynamics environment, a large family.

If people will pay to go to a working dude ranch, why not here?

I must think more about this....*sound of singing*

"Happy trails, to you...."

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In Celebration of Summer

Used to be little.....

This is the last picture for today. I promise.

The ultimate purpose of planting this rose bush, was to hide the heat pump. Can you SEE the heat pump? Of course not. Just another one of "Ma's" horticultural cloaking devices, come to fruition. *modestly pats hair*

This Rugosa Rose actually came from a sucker shoot off another bush, which is even larger. I guess you could call it, "Second Hand Rose."

These plants are so prolific, that runners have snuck underneath the heat pump, with bold plans to launch an attack on the house. Periodically, I dig up the extras, throw them away, or give them as graduation and wedding presents, where the primary obstacle to survival is the dreaded "canis herbivoris," or, plant-eating dog. (yes, Liz blabbed :-D)

You may notice two disparate parts of the house. On the left, the original structure, on the right, the new addition. In Iowa, we refer to this as "distressed," and "nouveau riche." Yet to be determined: whether we will spruce up the old, or stress out the new.

In the meantime, the bush waits.....and bides its time.....

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My Ditch Tree in Summer Regalia

I just wanted you to know that the forlorn and barren tree of earlier fame is now in its full glory :-)

I rescued this poplar from an ignoble death in a lonely ditch. Dug out with no little effort, transplanted and then faithfully watered, this tree is thriving.

Notice the lush, green grass surrounding this youngster. Do you see any dandelions? NO! Of course not, since ever vigilant "Ma" got to that section of lawn with fertilizer and broadleaf weed killer. If you listen very closely, you can almost hear the little tree saying, "Thank You, O Ma..." If you look very closely, the horizon seems to slant. I'm thinkin' the terrain goes up hill on the right. If not in the past, it certainly does now. Oh yes, I am not responsible for the less than lush grass across the way. That is not our property. And past that, are soybeans. I am not responsible for them, either.

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The Latest Medical Report

Time for an update on Loren et al.

There will need to be a couple of changes in his diet and medication. His latest checkup last week found his triglycerides down, but bad cholesterol up, so we will need to tweak the diet some more. Honestly, he doesn't eat that much questionable food. I mean, if one only partakes of a single serving of milk per day, having 2% instead of skim hardly seems unreasonable. So, he is cutting out cheese and switching to Healthy Choice Ice Cream. In addition, the doctors have had him increase his fish oil.

The last heart biopsy was another 1a. Not bad, but not perfect. They want to switch him from Cyclosporin to Rapamyacin, but are loath to do that until he achieves a zero rejection biopsy. SO, they are taking him of Azathioprine and putting him on CellCept. This new drug should be more effective in combating rejection. The reason to get a transplant patient off Cyclo is to prevent damage to kidneys and yes, the heart. I met a man who'd needed (and received) a kidney transplant, five or so years after his heart transplant. Vasculopathy is almost inevitable with long term use of Cyclosporin. (see, now isn't this fun? and you thought after transplant everything was just hunky-dory...)

Loren has to take the CellCept one month before his next biopsy, and that could not be scheduled until August, so he will start the CellCept when we return from our trip to Georgia and Indiana. He probably does not want to be taking a major trip while starting on a new med, anyway. (OK, that didn't come out quite right, but you know what I mean)
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I took the three little boys in for a general exam this afternoon, and Loren went along to take his NebuPent therapy. So, after the inhalation procedure, we were just one happy family in the teeny tiny office.

Ethan: 8 years old and seems fairly normal. Eyesight still good. Giggled during abdominal palpations :-)
Nolan: 6 years old and on the top end, size-wise. Not that he is fat. Oh no. He is just the size of a medium to large 8 year-old. Nolan also got another layer added to the foot section of his cast. Seems to be wearing away, what with ignoring his walker, and making unadvised attempts at riding his bike. *sigh* Oh yes, Nolan needs glasses, BIG TIME. He could only make out the huge "E" at the top of the chart. I had been suspicious, since he's been sitting so close to the TV. Other than that, he is pretty normal.
Trevor: 3 years old and was rather uncooperative. Would not look at the eye chart, even while being held in his loving mummy's arms. His normally sunny nature did an "about face" upon examination. (despite witnessing the obvious and painless survival of his two older brothers) He clenched his arms to his chest and did his utmost to set up complaints that would make listening to his lungs and heart absolutely futile. I basically had to hold him down for the rest of it. Did you know, it is quite possible to cry, and exclaim, "I want UP! I want UP!" at the same time?

Then, while we were there, we decided (upon recommendation of the doctor) to have a little blood work drawn to test for lead poisoning and anemia. We live in an old house, and, while most of the downstairs was repainted last summer, the kids still sleep in upstairs bedrooms, and they might as well sleep in the computer room, they spend so much time there.

After Trevor's "lively" exam, we opted just to have the two older boys tested. Let me tell you, finger pricks are NOT necessarily less painful. Ethan did pretty well, but, Nolan pulled a "Trevor" and had to have the nurse come in to help me hold him still. I imagine some of the "glances" we received exiting the clinic were connected in some way to the less than euphonious sounds emanating from two little Hoyts.

Howard Dean, move over!

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Father's Day, Part 2

We were having a small discussion over the lunchtime repast, and the query came up, "How did father's day originate, anyway?" To which I replied with my usual calm certainty, "Ummm, I don't know. But there's Father's Day, Mother's Day, Grandparent's Day, Kid's Day, and who know WHAT else." To which Jason added, "Just more reasons to have GOOD FOOD, then." Brace yourself, Jason, Father's Day was not created for feasting purposes.

And, on this patriarchal occasion, I got the bright idea of Googling my own father's name. So, I came up with this guy, who seems like a spendid chap, but is not my father. (Nice hair though, don't you think, Dad?) There was a slight relationship in the sense that my dad was a junior high science teacher for MANY years. Unfortunately, that did not stop me from flunking my first Biology test in college. (I got an "A" on the next one :-)

Then I came across another fellow, who also seems unrelated. (did you ever notice, Dad, how many guys out there with your name have their *cough* doctorates?)

And too, I even ran across a bishop, with the exact same name. (and I have to say, Dad, this looks NOTHING like you)

Ah, but after sifting through all those seemingly prestigious personages, I came across this, and this,
and this.

These are three of the books my father wrote and I am proud to be able to share them in this way. Gives me something to aspire to :-)

But, more than writing books, my father wrote regular columns in Mennonite publications for many years. I was thrilled to find a short article describing some of what he did in the years of my growing up. I can remember him going off to his office at the school, every Saturday morning, to crank out that Sunday School column.

All this floated into my mind as I was snoozing this morning.....(the brain is most susceptible when snoozing).....and it suddenly dawned on me, I HAD FORGOTTEN TO SEND DAD A FATHER'S DAY CARD!!

So, I'm sending this instead.

*waves sheepishly towards Indiana*

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How many dads does it take to change a lightbulb?

A Father's Day Riddle

This is the card the kids are giving to their dad, today. (try and look surprised, Loren, if you are reading this before lunch)

Now, I must get some potatoes in the oven, and then, fire up the grill. Chicken Terriyaki. Yum Yum! (hungry? Moore?)

And then, after the bunny boy is safely tucked into his napbed, we shall commence what I hope will be an annual Father's Day Tradition....."Fiddler on the Roof."

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Prone To Injury, Lo, I Feel It

I am beginning to think there is either something wrong with this family....or Iowa.

Let's see, Nolan broke his leg, Sharon got a severe sunburn, and Ardith had some kind of a "run-in" with a food processor. (I don't think they covered food processors in the Computer Science and Engineering Program. And, I would have warned her myself, except I have never HAD a food processor, despite blatant hints, YEAR after YEAR that this would make a WONderful Mother's Day present)

But I digress.

Now, for the third year in a row, I have broken out in red welts on arms and legs, after a mass weeding spree in the wildflowers. I think it was the ragweed. Or the field grass. Or both. (field grass is sorta like crabgrass, only on steroids) So, conveniently timed a week before two family reunions, I have these wonderful raised splotches, filling with fluid and providing hours, nay DAYS of tortuous blister popping fun. (the scars fade in about 6 months)

Every year I do this, for the sake of neighborhood beautification. And every year I forget to protect myself. (will somebody please, PLEASE remind me in late May of next year, to wear long sleeves and long pants?)

How well I remember a particular span of time, oh, about six years ago, when, in the space of 15 months, 3 children broke their arms. And don't even get me started on Loren and his problems!

And to think, all of these occurred after moving to Iowa.

It just makes one pause and think...

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Ethan sees what weddings are all about.....

(nice shot, Anna :-)

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"Ma" Conquers!

Finally, by popular demand, and thanks to Thainamu, THE DISHWASHER!!

Well, for some strange reason, entirely unknown to me, I was actually able to access the stored pictures on our network, and, following Thainamu's easy 4 step instructions, I got this picture published to the blog!

*squeals with excitement*

Yay! I am so happy that something finally worked. Thainamu, YOU ARE IN THE WILL!

Oh, and here's the best part.....I actually rotated the picture, without having to ask for help, and published it all by my lil' ol' self.

*grins smugly*

Now, there is one little hitch. For some reason, every picture that I post, comes up with this original caption that I had with that tree, a l-o-n-g time ago, which asks the burning question, "Who said spring was just around the corner?" Naturally, since the connection between spring and the dishwasher seems tenuous, at best, I deleted those bon mots. Maybe Thainamu can tell me how to get that permanent caption off. It never shows up at the time I am processing a picture...

Just a word or two of explanation: the drawers are out of the adjoining space so that Loren could access the pipes under the sink. They are back in their places, now, for, we are known far and wide for having everything in its proper place. Also, that box on the back is filled with heavy chains. No, these are not for easy access to a new form of child discipline, they are to provide weight on the back, to keep kids from tipping it over. See, when our relatives came last July to do some renovative work, they said there was space for a dishwasher. At first I was quite excited. But then I thought, why let the kids get off doing dishes? I decided instead, to use that space for some type of glass cabinet to display my wonderful blue dishes acquired from Goodwill. Hence, we did not get countertop to go over that space.

BUT, I later learned, again from my relatives, that what I really wanted, was indeed, a dishwasher. To sanitize the dishes for Loren's sake. Well, sensing the sense in all of these sensible arguments, I acquiesced.

Of course, NO ONE actually sells a dishwasher that is covered in anything remotely resembling a finished product, because, as everyone knows, all the really smart people order their dishwashers at the same time as their countertops. No one, I repeat, NO ONE would be so selfish as to want something to display pretties, when they could instead, have a device that takes two hours to wash dishes! (oh, and here's a little tip for those who long for a more colorful life: If you wash dishes that have had canned ravioli on them--yes, I can slum just as well as the next person--you WILL end up with some plastic items that are tinted a lovey shade of orange. This is especially effective for those [formerly] clear sipper cup lids. It's never too early to teach children the magic of "Ravioli Art")

Well, Loren will be making a cover for the whole contraption, some day, and then, we will have to find some other use for those heavy chains......

Now, I am off to peruse the pics :-) Something from the wedding, I think......

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Baby Bethany

This email arrived late afternoon, but I didn't see it until coming home from prayer meeting tonight....


today bethany developed a hemorage in her brain. she died just after lunch. Oh, my....Please thank everyone for their prayers and to please pray for Sarah and Troy.

love Elizabeth

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Shearing Day

Did you ever have one of those days when you got sidetracked from what you had planned?

It all started when I gave a piano lesson to Melinda, and discovered she would soon need a new book. This reminded me that Carolyn also needed a new one, and I found I could no longer ignore the disarray of piano pedagogy.

SO, I got down the baskets filled with piano books, previously arranged according to that renowned organizational method, "Mess and Mayhem." Soon there were piles on the floor, "2nd level," "3rd level," and so forth. Amongst these potential aids to musical stardom, I also retrieved a few non-musical items: Lego blocks--the forgotten cast-off artillery from some war of long ago, an old family letter from last year ("By the way, Aunt Matilda, we will be unable to make the Christmas 2004 get-together."), several family photos taken before the last three kids were born, and my lost copy of, "Dave Barry Slept Here, A Sort of History of the United States." (Goody! More reading material for the bathroom)

It took nearly two hours, but FINALLY, everything was arranged. I managed to slip harder music into each one's pile, and, most importantly, everyone has to keep their books in a labeled folder. Upon penalty of death! See, it was not long ago, that a haphazard pile of books upon the piano, catapulted off the edge, and neatly broke off one foot of new growth from a favorite house plant. *shudders* I....I....I just don't want to talk about it......

By quarter to 12, I was ready to start the REAL task of the day, cutting the hair of four boys. I started with Nolan a few days ago. He cannot get in the tub, and, with a buzz cut, I can just shampoo his hair (what's left of it) with a washcloth :-) Buzz cuts being the favored style of summer, I sheared all the rest in like manner, allowing Jason the privilege of an extra 1/4 inch. I am just an old softy, I am.

Happily, there were no unfortunate accidents. All four boys retained their ears.

And what is even more fun than cutting hair from squirming boys? Cutting grass!

If I weren't so humble, I would venture to say that clippers and mower were wielded with equal expertise.

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Departures and Arrivals

Loren drove up to Rochester, yesterday, for another of his check-ups. I think he is down to once every 3 months, or so. I opted not to go with him, partly due to Nolan's leg. I figure Loren needs to "solo," sometime, anyway. *sigh* (they grow up so fast)

Sharon and the kids (minus Trevor, who is napping) have just exited the house in a veritable river of excitement for a trip to an old fashioned ice cream parlor. Sharon promised this outing as an "end of school treat." Of course, some kids are STILL finishing up schoolwork but, well....they deserve a break. I suppose.

Speaking of fractures, I was able to take Nolan into town, yesterday, to check on a small walker. It is perfect for him! Very cute, as orthopedic devices go. Now he can at least hobble around the yard, once you get him out the door and down the steps. And, he can get to the bathroom by himself, even if he thinks he cannot. But the real bonus, was discovering he could scoot around on the floor. He may wear out the seat of his shorts, but he got upstairs for bed and downstairs this morning, all by himself. My back is practically giddy with relief.

Much to my delight, the used copy of "The Short Stories of SAKI" I'd ordered arrived in the mail, yesterday :-) However, I must wait to read it until I finish William F. Buckley's "Miles Gone By," which I am just over halfway through, and "The Case for Democracy," by Natan Sharansky. Strangely enough, I am actually of an age when I remember his release from Soviet prison. (And, on a totally unrelated topic, SHARON, you will need to release that book in a week or two, so I have time to read it before it goes back to the library :-)

So, SAKI will have to wait, due to the unrelenting will of the (government controlled) public library. But, that will merely provide me with another opportunity to exercise a bit of self-control.

*takes break to get a bowl of ice cream*

The acquiring and reading of quality books makes one feel positively rich.

Libros. They're a good thing.

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Baby Bethany

Update on baby Bethany:

As of late Saturday night....she was switched from one heart/lung machine to another. (I think this is something they just have to do once in a while)

There is a one minute time interval between switching from one machine to another, and in that time interval, they saw that she still needed to be on the machine.

The doctors say she needs to make more progress and needs to make it faster. There is always the potential for blood clots forming from these machines. She is on a blood thinner to try and prevent that.

Many thanks to everyone who is praying for this little one.
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{10:00 p.m.} Here is a short bit from an IM I just had with Elizabeth, (great) aunt to Baby Bethany:

...they are slowly taking Bethany off the machines this week and said it doesn't sound too great.....Keep praying for God to be merciful as He sees best.

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Purse Alert

Chances are, if you save one of those packets of Honey Dijon Mustard from a fast food place, say, for about two months in your purse, because you thought it would be nice to use at home, and, because your parents grew up in the depression and never threw anything away, well, chances are, that it just might break open, someday, in that very same purse.

Oh yes.....don't rub your eyes immediately after cleaning out the purse.

This has been a public service announcement.

Thank you.

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A "Ma," a Murmer, and a Mind (or lack thereof)

So, it is late, no?

That is alright, because "Ma" has solved a great mystery!

It all started when I had a "little" cough during the night, er, morning. Another of the MANY Luden's Cough Lozenges I have taken over the past....*counts on fingers*...OK, the past MONTH..... was having absolutely NO effect. Plus, I was irrevocably wide awake. So, I stealthily located my bottle of Tylenol PM, and equally stealthily located my robe in the closet, then not so stealthily opened the squeaky door....(sorry, Loren)

Upon arriving downstairs, I suddenly recalled a load of wash I had left in the dryer, and another in the washer. The dryer contained socks for the hubby, and the washer held towels that needed to be dried, in preparation to be gotten wet the next morning (OK, that's THIS morning) when people hit the showers.

And so, re-initiating my stealth maneuvers, once again I crept down a stairway, (to the basement, this time) noticing with my ever observant ears, that the water softener was recycling, which, let's face it, you would have to be DEAF not to hear. The soft glow of those ugly curly light bulbs that all men love and most women despise *large intake of air* revealed........*VERY dramatic music, here, folks*........water gushing from a pipe behind the washing machine!!!

*Dramatically HUGE amount of tremendously dramatic organ music*

Ahhh, it is all becoming so very clear, now. Sort of. The gushingness extends to the rim of the washer, where it has obviously been the source of the random amounts of agua found sitting in said device. But....but...how to stop the flow? Stem the tide? Put the kabosh on the wash?

Well! "Ma" has not been given a small, yet occasionally effective brain for nothing! Oh no! Mustering all of her cerebral powers, she thinks. She ponders. She looks on, dumbly. She considers inaction pending cycle's end, followed by more cerebrality. But wait? What is that be-HIND the washer? (no, I mean besides the old, crusty wall, rusted pipes, and cobwebs) Lo, it is a larger open pipe, into which smaller and rather prolific pipes may be fitted. Presumably, so they do not expel water onto washers and floors in a most unattractive manner.

Seeing the chance for fame and glory, not to mention a dry floor, I courageously grasp the small, pulsing pipe and jam it back into the larger one.

*even MORE amounts of dramatical organ music than was previously thought possible*

And then, as all that climactic music fades away, comes the hushed stillness of noble victory. (well, except for the noisy water softener, anyway) A sense of renewed hope and goodwill begins to ooze through each vein and capillary. It is over. *sigh* The world has been made a safer place, in a basement kinda way. And, most importantly, there is one less reason for "Ma" to go totally mad.

*bows head for a moment of silence*

SO, resting in the knowledge that there will be towels for the kids' showers, and socks for Loren's feet, I spin the extra water out of the washer and proceed with the last dryer load.

Now, since I am so VERY much awake, I turn on my computer and start to recount my experience, careful to publish after each paragraph. I do not wish to lose an entire post, and my computer, having become accustomed to rebooting within the first hour, is not a machine to be trifled with. But, neither is "Ma!" For I have confronted the cascading beast of gushience, in all of its ugly wetness, and--I--have--conquered!

I am woman. I am not-quite-mechanically-incompetent. Hear me roar!

Two things I notice while typing:
1) Slader (Mechcanoer) is online, so we chat and swap stories of engines and broken bones,
2) My own mother logs on during these wee hours of the morning, and, like, Mom, you are SOOOOOOooooo busted!

*yawn*

I hear the furtive nibblings and squeaking of mousal creatures. It would seem I have intruded into the land of the nocturnal. All feats of mechanical glory aside, I really should head back to bed. Before the sun comes up.

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The "Ma"ian Knot

And so, on this bright, Saturday morning, with 15 minutes free time until I leave to work at the church, cleaning off innumerable fingerprints from Bible Schoolers, half of which are my own children's, I am suddenly faced with a dilemma:

Remembering the library books are due today, and also remembering that I am allowed one renewal, I call up the good folks who hold over me the power of literary life and death.

After a brief check, it is found I owe some two dollars in overdue fines, and the computer will not let me renew. So, I can drive 25 minutes (one way) to pay two dollars, and use more than that in gas, OR, I can let it ride until Monday, when the fifty or so OTHER books we checked out, will also be overdue.

Hmmmm. What to do....what to do....

My time is certainly worth something. Even though I don't get paid (in tradable coinage) for being a wife and mother, I am pretty sure my time is worth something.

*thinks*

I believe, after much thoughtful consideration, that the wisest course of action, is to march down the road, perform my appointed cleaning duties, for which I DO get paid, so as to accumulate enough filthy lucre to pay the ensuing library fines for next week.

Yes. That is what I shall do.

And after that, I shall take a sword, destroy a computer, (any computer, it doesn't really matter, since they are all possessed) and thereby become ruler of all Iowa.

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Random Friday Night

Nolan went back to the doctor, today. Another x-ray, and a few more strips of fiberglass casting material to cover over the cracks. Also, a nifty boot, that will keep the cast from getting worn down, and Nolan from falling down, on a slick floor surface.

He probably could have gotten it off in 3 more weeks, but we are going to be out of state at two reunions, so he keeps it on until July 8th. Until then, no biking, no swimming. Basically, no fun. But, Nolan can start putting a little weight on it, at his discretion. On Monday I will take him in to see if a junior size walker will be appropriate. The medical supply store informed me, "They don't make pediatric walkers."

Apparently, there just aren't enough young kids breaking legs.
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It is now evening, and we have just returned from the Vacation Bible School Program at the Reformed church down the road from us. Songs, skits, Bible verses, and the part the boys look forward to...hotdogs, (Jason had 3) chips and kool-aid. Various comments now float about the house...

Jason--"I wish every day was Saturday...." (sung in opera style)

Carolyn--"I can't WAIT until Bible School, next year!"

Kendra--"Pick UP. We are supposed to be picking up toys!"

Derek--"The 1980's was when computer technology advanced. And the zero's...what do you call them?...." (randomly walking around and talking to himself, again)

Kendra--"OK! Everybody upstairs and get dressed! Then come down and brush your teeth." (is the military looking for more drill sergeants?)

Nolan--"Mommy? I have to go to the bathroom..."

Carolyn--"My stomach doesn't feel too good, and I'm thirsty, and I'm STARVING for hotdogs!" (can a stomach be bi-polar?)

Trevor--"Mommy, I want two chocolates..."

Ma--"Please may I have a chocolate..."

Trevor--"Please."

Ma--"You may have ONE." *Trevor unwraps Dove's chocolate and comes over to me, holding up inside of wrapper*

Trevor--"What does this say?" *blink, look down at child, and glance at wrapper*

Ma--"A smile is worth more than a dozen roses."

Hmmm. I'll just bet some man wrote that. Besides, you can't SMELL a smile.

Nolan--"Mommy, I have to go to the bathroom..."

*sigh*

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There's No Place Like Home

I'm not sure what I love about this place more:

-the mouse Sharon saw climbing up a curtain in the computer room last night

-the ants I just found on the kitchen counter

-the dishwasher that takes two hours to clean one load

-the dryer that takes 70 minutes, minimum, to dry one load of clothes

-the washer that randomly fills with water when no one is using it

*wonders if there is some way to combine these three appliances...*

-the sweeper that doesn't work (that's ok. nothing gets dirty *choke* besides, I can always use the hand vac)

....oh wait....I forgot....that's the wrong list....

That's my Stuff I Won't Complain About list.

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"Ma" vs Technology and the Five Step System

It is the dead of night, and a gentle tapping at our bedroom door awakens me. Glancing at my watch, I note the time: 6:20 a.m. Well, almost the dead of night, anyway. I grab my robe and stumble to the door. It is Ethan, "Nolan wants to go downstairs." *groan* At least he has taken my admonition from yesterday seriously, and not come into the room, this time. It gives me the "willies" to suddenly see a kid beside the bed, not to mention being an invasion of married space.

For the sixth day in a row, I carry Nolan down the stairway without dropping him. Only 29 more days to go. I hope... I glance out the window to see a line of black, threatening clouds to the west and north. Hmmmm. It would appear we are in for a little precipitation.

"Can I watch something?" came the plaintive plea from the cripple. "Sure." *yawn* "If I can figure out how this works...." I gaze at the new media set-up. It is the 3rd configuration of computer, wide screen monitor, VCR, cassette tape deck and stereo receiver to be assembled in the past 4 days. I had finally passed my VHS Orientation Class, and was trembling at the prospect of taking the next step in Hoyt Media Presentation For Dummies: "You, TOO, Can Play a DVD, Even Though You are a Total Technologic Incompetent."

With tremulous fingers I performed the intricate steps:
Step 1) turn on monitor,
Step 2) turn on VCR,
Step 3) take "boss" remote and turn on TV.....wait, what's this? A log-on box has popped up. I type in what might be Loren's password. WRONG! I type in another one he frequently uses....SUCCESS! I am IN!
Step 4) Now, to get the TV part to come on.....yes, we're getting somewhere.....
Step 5) time for the magic channel #4......and.....and......nothing but fuzz.

It would appear my previous VCR Orientation Class has just become obsolete. I will now have to take a replacement course, in ADDITION to the DVD Class. Boy, I only hope I can work this into my schedule. Or, maybe I should just wait until the extended version comes out. That's where they show clips of me, going berserk, and throwing various media components out the front window and onto the lawn.

At least the TV is doable. We opt for local news and weather. The radar shows a stunning array of bright red bands heading directly toward us. I talk it up to the kids, "Possibility of 3/4 inch hail! Is this exciting, or what!" They are temporarily mollified, especially since I do not mute the commercials.

Well, we survived the weather, breakfast and sending three off to Bible School. Time to snooze on the couch, with Trevor nestled beside me. We are bonding. He and I, and the Big Yellow Bird on Sesame Street.

Napping. I can handle that.

And, it only takes one step.

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You Know

--it's a hot day, when kool-aid starts looking downright tantalizing.

--3-year-old Trevor has seen too many "Larry Boy" videos, when he starts repeating, over and over, "I! AM! THAT! HE-RO!!!"

--you're one of those women that are spatially challenged , when the walker that looked small, yesterday, looks adult-sized, today.

--you will have to finish the lawn yourself, when your subtle hint, "I guess you are too busy, Jason, to do some more mowing?" (as the guys are fiddling with the new monitor) is met with, "Yes." By your husband.

--you are almost over your 3 week cold, when you can go to bed with only a couple of coughing spasms.

--you have been married 24 years, when you hit the anniversary and can't celebrate it properly because, a) You have a kid with a broken leg who needs you to carry him to the bathroom, b) You're still hacking from a cold and don't FEEL like celebrating, c) You realize *flutters eyelashes* that the longer you wait, the more expensive a restaurant hubby will feel obliged to take you to.
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Well, all in all, things are going well enough. Nolan has only bumped his leg badly, once, today, and he hobbles around fairly well with the over-sized walker.

Must go. Have miles to mow, before I sleep.

{--9:50--I feel compelled to make a small *cough* correction. My husband informs me that his "Yes," was not in any way an answer to my mowing query. He hadn't even HEARD my question. (this is SO typical :-) Fortunately, I think that Jason did, for he came out and relieved me, later.

Sometimes, it is good that husbands don't hear everything their wives say. It would just be helpful, if the wives knew they hadn't heard. But then, how can you tell someone you haven't heard them, when you aren't aware they are SPEAKING TO YOU? Really, sometimes we communicate better through Instant Messenger. Isn't that right, Loren?......LOREN??........*sigh*}

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Fish and Chips

This is not your mother's apron,

AND...

Could ecumenicalism be hitting the computer scene?

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Today's News

Thanks to the local Lion's club, Nolan has a little walker to use. I'm not sure it is pediatric in size, but it seems smaller than normal.

We celebrated his liberation from the couch by having a picnic lunch outside, just Nolan, Trevor and I. The hope was that this unaccustomed festivity would take away some of the disappointment in missing Vacation Bible School. He seemed to take it fairly well, though, not a day goes by that he doesn't mention, "I wish I didn't have a broken leg."

I was able to acquire the walker while out shopping. Notable purchases include two videos from Goodwill: "Royal Wedding," with Fred Astaire and Jane Powell, and "Fievel Goes West," starring an engaging immigrant mouse.

Upon arriving home with the tapes and walker, (oh yes, and FOOD) I found Nolan was not in the least interested in trying out his new aid, as he was fast asleep on the couch. It seems a little goofing around had ensued in my absence, (with Trevor) involving chair-scooting, showing off, and whapping the injured leg against the wall. The results were renewed pain, tears and a "sleep off the trauma" session on the couch.

I don't know if this undid some of the healing, but, hopefully, the bones will have a chance to knit before cool weather and long pants. I'm sure he would like to ride his bike again (and I do mean HIS bike) before winter sets in.
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As to baby Bethany, she has been eased off the respirator a tiny bit, which means she is breathing a tiny bit on her own. Everyone takes that as good news :-) But, now's not the time to "ease up" on the prayers. Many thanks to everyone who is uplifting her and her family to the Great Physician.

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Lucrativity Could Be in Your Kitchen

Another claim to fame for lil' ol' Iowa.

*starts rummaging in the fridge*

What am I bid for an old head of lettuce....?

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How long can a little boy lay idle on a couch before he starts acting weird?

As it turns out, not that long, really.

Nolan has 36 more hours to go before he can graduate to sitting up. *sigh* He has started talking to himself. This wouldn't be so bad, but when he's doing it during the video we are playing for HIM, it gets to be a little distracting.

Carolyn has been most helpful in entertaining him. She brought out her string cards and we scrounged up some shoelaces for them. The last I checked, Nolan was using them as a fishing line, casting about for dangerous aquatic prey. Usually, Trevor. After that, it was knot-tying and fan-waving with the cards. Maybe sometime he'll get around to actually lacing the cards.

Nolan only wants ME to help him with the activities he's allowed to do: being carried to the bathroom, being helped IN the bathroom, being dressed morning and evening, and being carried up and down the sixteen stair steps each morning and evening. Usually with the earnest plea, "Be careful with my leg!" He was so adamant about only me helping him, he waited over four hours while I was driving to Ft. Dodge and back yesterday, just to go to the bathroom. Who says the kid has no self control?

When Nolan is allowed to sit up, and play on his computer, it will seem like running through the grass, barefoot. Too bad he will not get to go to Bible School next week. To many stairs, too much moving around, and too many chances to get bumped.

Well, that is going to take up my time the next couple of days. After the initial painful period, he may be able to use a little walker. I have to check around and see if I can rent, borrow or buy one from the local Lions Club, Am vets, or Medical Supply Store. He's just a little young to use crutches, yet. I feel bad for him, but we shouldn't complain.
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As to the little 3 month-old Bethany, this is what I gleaned from Elizabeth, today: last night the doctors said she was stable, but in grave condition. She is being started on kidney dialysis. An extra surgery was required to find a blockage, after her previous surgery. She didn't bounce back after this latest one, and that is how her condition has become so serious. (hopefully, I haven't unintentionally given out any misinformation)

It is hard on the family.

Let's keep praying...

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There's a Little Girl....

...in Oklahoma who could benefit from our prayers. She is only three months old and has not been doing well since recent corrective surgery. Today, she was to be put on heart/lung bypass. You know I don't often ask for prayers, but this little babe is kin to Elizabeth, the wife of Loren's deceased brother. I think a lot of Elizabeth, and I hope you will prayer a lot for little Bethany. I am certain her godly parents, Sarah and Troy would appreciate it.

I was planting Oklahoma Mix Zinnias today, and couldn't help thinking about her. I ordered them months ago, but now, every time I walk by that spot, I'll have a reminder to think and pray for Bethany.
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Nolan has an official leg cast. Lovely blue, and only up to his knee. It was decided that he tolerated his leg being lifted, and since the fibula was still intact, they wouldn't cast him above the knee. But, since it is swollen, and could continue to swell, he must keep it elevated above his heart for THREE DAYS. After letting the cast dry a bit, they took a cast saw and cut along each side, to give room for the expected swelling. I believe they referred to this as a "Bi-Valve Job." (I kid you not) Then, when he sees the bone specialist again next Friday, they will cover over the cracks.

The full amount of cast time could be 4 to 5 weeks. It will be hard for Nolan, but hopefully, a learning time, as well. All the kids are pitching in to read to him, play games with him, and offer moral support while he watches videos :-) I am thankful it is shorts weather! Makes dressing him SO much easier. But carrying him to the car or the bathroom is still rather painful for him. He said it even hurt when I turned the corner while traveling to the clinic.

That was my morning.

My afternoon was spent traveling to Ft. Dodge, to pick up Loren. He had taken our good van, which we lovingly call, "Moby Dick," to a transmission shop. Apparently, the problem entails more than a quick fix. So, I got to travel to a portion of Iowa I had never seen before, confirming my suspicions, that once you've seen an Iowan field, you've seen, Iowa.

Back home and out to the garden. The kids and I planted tomato, cabbage, watermelon and pepper seedlings, cucumber, pumpkin and two kinds of squash seeds. We've never had much luck with pumpkins or watermelons, but like unsuccessful gamblers, we keep trying, hoping for the big strike.

Rain is promised over the weekend, possibly after midnight. We are ready!

And now, to the videos....

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Nolan Tells the Truth

So, it was shortly after breakfast, when Melinda came running in to exclaim, "Mommy, Nolan is sitting out by the ditch. He said he had been riding Derek's bike (without Derek's permission) and had been riding on the road, (absolutely verboten)and he fell and broke his leg. He's crying and he wants you!"

(thinks to myself, "Super. Just SUPER.")

I carried the distraught boy in, but not before he informed me, "I fell off the bike and broke my leg!" *sob*

He held his arms around his right shin, would not straighten his leg, and would not even THINK of putting weight on it. Hmmmm. This could be the real thing.

Well, we had to put it to a test. A little time needed to go by to see how bad this really was. I parked him on the couch with a cold cloth, had nurse Carolyn read to him, and went out to start digging the last, long bed of the garden. Halfway through, I stopped to rest and check on Nolan. He was no longer crying, but would not try the leg. I helped him to the bathroom, where his leg got jostled. He went back to the couch, and I went back outside, whereupon his nurse soon informed me that her patient was crying again.

Gave him some children's ibuprofen, and said, "OK, that's it. I'm calling the doctor." ("please, PLEASE, anyone but the doctor I don't like....") I didn't get my favorite, but I got the next best. What a stroke of luck, the afternoon appointment left me just enough time (and I do mean JUST) to finish digging that bed, rake and grade it, followed by a quick shower.

Another timely occurrence, Nolan had just had a bath the night before, complete with hair washing :-) so there would be no major de-mucking involved. For him. I was another matter. ("Mommy, there's dirt all over you...")

But, I carried the poor lad out to the car and we headed for the doctor's office. Nolan perked up a little on the ride, and I began to wonder....

Once there, we got in fairly quickly, whereupon Nolan informed the inquisitive nurse, "I fell off a bike and broke my leg." *sniff*

My biggest fear, up to this point, was that they would want to weigh Nolan, and he not being able to stand on two feet, the ol' "weigh you while your mother holds you and then we'll subtract the difference" method would be employed. ("Please! Don't say my weight out loud!") But, instead, we were taken directly to the procedure room, so I wouldn't have to carry him all the way down the hall. The doctor came shortly, and received the same announcement from Nolan, "I fell off a bike and broke my leg." *sniff* Nolan trembled a fair amount while being very gently examined.

Then, a WHEELCHAIR was brought for the trip to X-Ray. Now THIS was beginning to look fun. We only had to wait ten minutes for the paperwork, giving Nolan ample time to experiment with moving the wheels back and forth. Once again, I began to wonder...

Time to meet the X-Ray technician, where ONCE AGAIN, those fateful words were spoken, (All together, now..) "I fell off a bike and broke my leg."

X-Ray complete, the doctor soon came and examined the picture in the tech's office. "He wasn't lying," were the doc's words. A spiral fracture of the right tibia. *sigh*
A lady from our church walked by, "What are you guys doing here?" "I ---- --- - ---- --- ----- -- leg."

Nurse who will be Nolan's Vacation Bible School teacher next week is there, "I'm supposed to have you in my class next week!"
"Well, he'll be there in a cast," replies Doctor H.
To me: "I'm going to put him in a temporary splint, but you need to come back tomorrow to see the bone specialist."
"You're kidding!"
"No, we have to check with him to know how high up the thigh to put the cast."
"The thigh? Are you serious!"
"One joint below and above the break is the general rule."

I asked the doctor while he was fixing up Nolan's leg how a break like that could occur to the shin.

"It's a bit unusual, but his foot must have slipped below the bike and gotten twisted."

Actually, when you consider Nolan was riding a too-big bike, on a road of loose gravel, it all starts to make sense. And, hopefully, the lessons of obedience will all start to make sense to a certain almost 6-year-old.

Nolan was most brave and did not cry out, until the temporary plaster started its heat activating sequence and THEN someone started crying. He thought he was getting burned, I guess. To the rescue, a wonderful nurse with pillows, water, and two suckers.

So, what have we learned today?
1) Some people have to find out the meaning of rules, the hard way ("I'll never go on the road, again, Mommy."),
2) An immediate confession makes the rest of the story more believable.
3) Nolan may have a future as a medical diagnostician, and,

4) NEVER underestimate the healing power of suckers.

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