Ed

Ed has his med-port put in today. This is like a built-in IV and will be used to administer the chemo and for anything else that he might need it for. They said that he could leave it in until he actually has the surgery. I guess UNC would go for that but they might have rules against using a port put in at another hospital, who knows. He seems to be doing fine and will take the bandage off tomorrow and take a shower. We will see the chemo doctor here for the first time tomorrow but I'm sure it will just be the get-acquainted visit. Don't know if I've mentioned it before but Ed has decided to have his radiation and chemo done here in RR instead of traveling to Chapel Hill.

We only had about an inch of snow. The streets are pretty clear now and should be completely clear after it warms up tomorrow.

We had a very nice Christmas. Ed bought a little gas heater for the sunroom and now it is toasty warm in there.

Love to all.

"I'm dreaming of a white Christmas" Oh! I'm not dreaming - it did snow! And snow it did! We awoke Sunday morning to about 2 inches, then it preceded to snow about another 4 or so. I'm so glad that it was Sunday instead of Saturday. We had a nice day on Christmas, visited Amber and Clay, and then Dad for a short while, then returned home to finish Christmas dinner for all the Blanchard family. Amber spent Saturday and Sunday night with Ben in Norfolk. Hannah was suppose to go get her on Sunday, but the big snow made it unsafe to travel. When I talked to Ben on Sunday morning, they were on their way - in the snow- to IHOP for breakfast. Happy New Year to all!

Just so everyone knows our schedule and where to reach us if needed. We leave tomorrow for Hickory and will be there until Sunday. On Sunday we as well as Howie's family will leave for Macon to be with Chris and his family. We will celebrate Mandi's birthday on Tuesday and will drive back home on Wednesday. Chris called last night to wish Gene and I a happy anniversary. He's looking forward to being home for Christmas. I believe he gets home tonight and will have off until the 2nd or 3rd I believe. Hope everyone has a great Christmas. Margaret

Ed

There's really nothing to report on the doctor's visit today. Just the initial visit with the exact same questions that we've answered, it seems like 50 times. I told Ed we just need to type up the answers and just hand them to the doctor. When did the symptons start, how much do you smoke, how much do you drink, do you have any pain, have you lost any weight, what medications do you take, blah, blah, blah. Here's your $40 co-pay. We see a surgeon here tomorrow who will be putting in the port for the chemo. Not tomorrow though. Tomorrow is just the initial visit with the same questions and the $40 co-pay.

Ed doesn't plan to start anything till the first of the year. We did like the doctor today though, Dr Thannikkary. She has a son who graduated with Cathy.

We hope that Kyle is 100% by Christmas. And we tried to tell you Howie, but you just wouldn't listen. Live and learn, I always say.

I'm going to bed now. Can you tell I get a little grumpy when I get sleepy? Okay, a LOT grumpy.

Ed

Our appointments yesterday went well. Dr Karuda (surgeon) said Ed was doing fine and released him to the chemo/rad folks until probably late February when hopefully the tumor will have shrunk and he can remove it. Ed sees a radiology oncologist here on Tuesday, 21st who will be in charge of his treatments for apprx 5-6 weeks. The chemo doctor in Chapel Hill said that it will be a low dose chemo treatment to help the radiology be more effective so hopefully side effects will be minimal. It will be administered by a continuous IV pump so that he will not have to be hospitalized. Ed is worrying more about his boney bald head that anything else, it seems. He seems to be doing well and plans to go back to work on Monday.
Our prayer request now is that the tumor will shrink and that the side effects will be minimal. Thanks for your prayers.

Ed and Joyce, Hope things go well tomorrow with all of the doctors. We'll do our part, pray. Margaret

Ed

We received a call today and have an appointment on Friday, 17th with the radiology and chemo doctors. We will also see Karuda (the surgeon) on Friday so that we won't have to make another trip up there on the 21st. Ed has been doing well this week even though he hasn't slept so well a couple of nights. He is eating more than ever but I still have to prod him to drink more water. He is enjoying using the computer more and hasn't locked it up too many times.

We were very glad to be able to go to Bertha and Rick's on Saturday (still seems like it was Sunday) and enjoyed being with everyone.

Enjoyed being with everyone yesterday, house was decorated beautifully, food was good and the company was tops. Missed the ones who could not be there. As far as the food was concerned, what I enjoyed most was the turkey steak that I had about 11 o'clock last night.

If anyone wants to know, I bringing pecans pies, yams, and some other vegetable, maybe string beans, maybe something else, but I haven't planned any further. Looking forward to seeing everyone this weekend and really hope that Ed can be there. Joyce says he plans to go if he feels like it. Sorry Bertha about hanging up on you. I forgot to turn my phone off and it rang in the middle of the seminar and to turn it off I had to open it so it seemed that I hung up on you. When I checked later to see who had called, I looked at missed messages and incoming message. Sorry. Let me know if you need me to do or bring anything that I haven't mentioned. Margaret

The surgery went fine, and Dad is doing well. I even talked to him on the phone just an hour after he had woken up. He sounded good. Mom says his color is good. One of the later shift nurses couldn't believe he had the surgery this morning. If anyone wants to get in touch with them, their number is 919-966-1873. His room number is 4702. Jeremy and I are headed there tomorrow to help pass the time. We hope to see everyone this weekend.

Ed

We are now at home. The team of doctors have decided to put off the surgery to remove the tumor and have opted to begin with radiation and chemo to shrink the tumor and then follow with surgery. We have mixed emotions since we don't know how the treatments will affect Ed but they say that this is the most effective method to avoid a reoccurrence of the cancer. We hope to see everyone on the 11th.

Byrum Christmas Gathering

You and all of your loved ones, (that includes boy/girl friends) are invited to the Blanchard home for the Byrum Christmas Gathering on Saturday, December 11. Please come and enjoy the fellowship beginning at 12:00. Lunch/Supper to be served at 3:00. The Blanchards will be providing the meat dishes - Fried Chicken, Grilled Turkey Mignon, Grilled Shrimp and the rolls. Daddy will be cooking ham and collards. I am asking each of you to bring a vegetable and/or dessert dish.

For those of you who enjoy the merriment of the gag gift giving, please bring a male/female gift costing $5. - $10. vbjPlenty of parking in the rear behind the fence.
We look forward to seeing you all! Love, Aunt B.

Joyce, Barry, Cathy and of course ED, We are so relieved and happy for you. I know no one's looking forward to the surgery, but Ed's attitude today was he just wanted to have them go on and do what they have to and then more forward. I think it's really harder when you're in "the holding pattern" and can't find out whats what. Bertha, I appreciate you're having the Byrum celebration since it was not a great weekend for me. As far as postponing, why don't you talk to Joyce tomorrow and see how they feel. I understand that you and Dad plan to go up tomorrow. I'm planning to go on Monday and be with Joyce if they do the surgery then. Love all you guys, Margaret

Update on Dad

Dad had his CT scan today, and the results were good. The cancer has not spread anywhere. The surgery is still tentatively scheduled for Monday. Dad's team of doctors is meeting together and then with him in the morning, I think. Dad's plan is to go home before the surgery, but I'm not sure what the doctor's plans are. We are all extremely relieved, especially Dad. He sounded about as happy as I've ever heard him tonight. Thanks for all your prayers. Keep them coming as I'm sure we have a long journey ahead of us.

Ed

Ed is scheduled for the CAT scan sometime this afternoon so hopefully we will know more soon. Thanks for all your prayers. I'm at home right now to do the payroll but will be going back to Chapel Hill this afternoon.

Christmas

Bertie:

Whatever everybody else wants to do is fine with me. I think the decision should be made between you, Aunt M. & Aunt Joyce. Thanks for the address and phone number Barry. Looking forward to seeing everyone no matter when it is! Happy Holidays!

Byrum Christmas Gathering

Christmas has be relocated to the Blanchard house for Saturday, December 11. Meal at 2:00. UNLESS - we just all want to wait till Joyce and Ed are at home and feel well enough to come even if that's January. What is the consensus of the group? Please blog and give me your opinion. Bertha

Mom's words:

"They were not able to do the scope today because the opening was too small to get the instrument through. The doctor said that they have to get rid of the barium & do the CAT scan before they can do surgery so they will know what they're dealing with. The plan is to keep Ed on the cleansing routine here at the hospital until he is free of the barium. They have him tentatively scheduled for surgery on Monday."

While a lot of folks might find a week of bed and television and people bringing you supper heavenly, Pop ain't one of them. He is feisty though when he's distracted from being stuck at the hospital. Earlier he snuck a couple smokes in the bathroom, but said the goon squad (his words) came in before he could get off three puffs. Perhaps Dad's best news today was when Dr. Heather (the only doctor Mom & Dad really liked, but definitely his favorite now) said that we didn't hear it from her, but she saw no problem with him hauling his IV outside (apparently UNC Hospitals is antsy about their IV racks wandering off) for a smoke -- whatever passes the time and, consequently, the barium.

As Dad's not the big chatter that Mom is (919-966-1841), you may prefer to drop him a note or a transcript of today's Paul Harvey at:

Ed Summerlin
Room 4712
UNC Hospitals
101 Manning Drive
Chapel Hill, NC 27514

Spoke to Joyce today and wanted to share this info with all (as I understood it). Ed is in UNC Memorial Hospital in Chapel Hill; room 4712, telephone # 919-966-1841. Since he still has barium in his system, they kept him to try to help him get rid of it - I don't know exactly how. After that, the doctors want to do a cat scan and what Joyce called a flex - a light where they can look and see how extensive the problem is. All this is to help the doctor decide what plan of action to order. At this point, his preferred treatment is 4-8 weeks of radiation, then surgery. But until they know what they're dealing with, they really don't know what they'll recommend. Joyce hopes he won't be in the hospital but a couple of days. I'm sure when they get home, Joyce will fill us all in on the blog!

Happy birthday to Joan

By the way, Happy Birthday to Joan tomorrow.

Ed and Thanksgiving

Joyce, You know that we are praying for Ed. He is on several prayer list. Hope everyone has a good Thanksgiving. We did; we made a number of memories. You all what memories are don't you, all the things that go wrong are the things that you remember. Both families came in late Tuesday night. On Wednesday night all of of drainage systems backed up including the washing machine. After going out to eat and leaving the washing machine going, everything back up in the new bathroom, water came out the door, out the laundry room into the kitchen and also into the basement. We called a plumber and he cleared roots out of the drain. My boys were great, they cleaned up everything, including taking up the wet carpet outside the bathroom, which we had planned to replace with tile. On Thanksgiving, everything worked well. On Friday, Mandi was in the bathroom and said there were too many bubbles in the commode. Washing machine going again and had backed up in the commode and shower. We called the plumber again and he found a blue plastic bag down the drain. I believe I remember seeing one over the opening for the commode while old one had been taken out and before the new one was installed. On Friday, we decorated the tree and about 4 pm the three girls were playing under the tree and Mandi's hair got caught in the tree and the 9 foot tree came tumbleing down. Lots of ornaments were thrown off and a number of them broken. While we were cleaning up the mess I sent the girls upstairs, and I heard all of this bumping and went to investigate. The three of them were bouncing on the bed in the guest room and then jumping on the floor. I told them I was upset with them; that I thought they would have felt bad about the tree and not be doing what they were. I think Amber is going to be a politician, she said that they did feel bad and were jumping to make themselves feel better. All in all we had a good time. I'm grateful that their trip back home went safely. Chris' family on Saturday and Howie's on Sunday. Howie's was planning to leave on Saturday, but one of his friends invited them and another couple to cookout. With Michelle's back problem, they do not want to operate, so she is getting a series of three shots, similar to a epiderial (given while in labor to block pain). She had had one before coming and she was walking extremely well. She had her second scheduled for 6 this morning. Gene was also traveling yesterday. He had a meeting in Durham this morning so he went yesterday. He said it took him about two hours to travel about 5 miles; a bad accident. He's back home. Say a little prayer for Chris, he has an interview on the 1st. It's a good job. When they called, he told them he was being activated but they wanted to interview him anyway. Interviews were scheduled for the 6th and he told them that he would be leaving at that time, so they set a special time for him to be interviewed. Joyce, if Gene or I can do anything to help, please let us know. Margaret

Ed

Ed had another xray today and he still has barium left. Dr Koruda's office in Chapel Hill called and they still want to see him tomorrow as scheduled. We both relieved. Will let you know something when we know something. The nurse said that Dr Koruda may want to keep him so we'll be packing pjs just in case. Please continue to pray that no other organs are involved.

Happy Thanksgiving

Happy Thanksgiving to everyone. Ed is feeling pretty good today and we are looking forward to a bountiful day. We wish the same for all.
Love, Joyce

Ed home

We are now at home but still with plenty of barium. His potassium level is back up and we will be trying at home what they were trying at the hospital. We are happy to be back at home.

Ed

Ed had a pretty rough day yesterday. Seems that everything that they used to try to purge the barium from his system made him nauseous. They tried something about 7:30 last night which seemed to better agree with him. He was able to eat a Wendy's Frostie and some orange serbert and drink some juice and keep it all down. They took him down to xray this morning to check how much of the barium he has been able to get rid of. I'm home washing up and getting him some different clothes. Please continue to pray that they are able to get the barium out of his system so that we will be able to find out what the next step is.
Thanks for all your concern. We love you.
Joyce

Joyce, I'm sure that the Family Christmas on the 11th is the furtherest thing from your mind right now, but you know if you need someone else to do it, I can. If there is anything I can do right now except pray, please let me know. Love ya, Margaret Howie, Happy Birthday. Since it's after 12, it's now the 22nd. Talk to you later. Mom

Ed

Ed has still not been able to get rid of the barium even though we have been trying different things all weekend. He also has not been able to eat or drink anything. The doctor wanted him to go to the hospital tonight for an enema and a potassium check. His potassium was low so they have admitted him overnight. Would someone call Dad in the morning so that he will not worry if he happens to call and can't get me?

Ed

Ed did not have the CT Scan yesterday as planned. We went up there but there was still barium in his system from the barium x-ray and they could not do it. So don't know where we are at the present but I doubt that we will see the surgeon on Tuesday as there won't be anything to consult about unless we can get rid of all the barium and get the CT Scan resheduled before then which is doubtful at this time. The man doing the scan said that sometimes it takes a month before it clears out. Ed is kinda down today because things seemed to be falling into place before this hitch and he is anxious for an answer.

Cathy has not received results on her mole.

Thanks for all your prayers.

Hey, I didn't know for sure whether Dad and Joan were coming for Thanksgiving or not, but I guess Howie has heard that they are, that must be the old folks he was talking about, because there's no one else OLD who are coming. HA HA My memory must not be as sharp as my sisters (but it has nothing to do with age), my baptism was around 11, 12 or 13 and of course my profession of faith was made at revival, doesn't everyone? Don't remember the preacher, I know I was dunked, and I didn't remember where, but know it was not a body of water where I had been before. Probably the same place as Joyce. We are looking forward to the family coming for Thanksgiving. My bedroom will be finished painted tomorrow, so I'll get it back together over the weekend so there'll be room in the other rooms for guest. The bathroom is coming along, the tile floor was put down today and the shower will be done tomorrow. He'll work on Saturday also. I told him it would be okay if window and painting was not finished, as long as it was useable. Joyce, you know Ed and your family are in our prayers. Love all of you. Margaret

Profession of Faith

I made my profession of faith at revival when I was 10 or 11 (fifth grade). As one matures in their faith, I guess one sometimes questions the validity of a decision at such a young age. Being brought up always going to church, one wonders whether one makes the decision because everyone else was and you think you're expected to or was it a genine decision. Several of my friends made their profession the same night. We were baptised by George Harris (I think) at Hertford Baptist Church in their baptismal pool one Sunday afternoon. One of the things that I remember was being in a strange place. I had never seen a baptisting inside before and felt very strange. Mom remembered my change of clothes, but no towel. I dried off with several men's hankerchiefs. Throughout my life, God had been closer to me at times. But, never has he been really REAL to me until I began to have regular Bible study. I mean the kind where it's just you, God and the Holy Word. I relate it to the Uncle Sam poster- where he's always pointing to you no matter where you're standing. It seems that no matter where I'm reading, it speaks to me about something that going on in my life that very day. I believe it really begins, when you seek God. We've all heard, Seek and ye shall find. Well I'm here to testify - SEEK and you will find God.

Love and prayers for you, Joyce, Ed, Barry and Cathy - and the rest of you too!
Love, Aunt B.

Ed

Ed's biopsy came back positive and we head to Chapel Hill tomorrow for a CT Scan of his organs to determine if anything is involved besides his colon. We go back for a consultation with Dr Karuda, the surgeon on Tuesday. Ed seems to be handling things better than me even though he has not told his sister, Norma nor Tom.

My question was, "what is the birth year of all under 18?" Only Chris made an A+. I'll have to do the math for you other two.

Hmmmm....

Christie, we've got a Barnes and Noble just up the road. Definitely sounds like a great idea. Chris is into sci-fi fantasy stuff: knights, dragons, magic, etc. He's got all the Harry Potter books already.
This weeks is spirit week at school and today is "dress up as your future career day". Mandi went as a vet, with a lab coat, a stethoscope and a stuffed puppy with it's leg bandaged up. Reminded me of Bruce (one of the many) when his little paw was broken. Cortlyn went as a kindegarten teacher (any pointers, Bert?) and Chris went as a soldier. He had one of my old BDU tops and his own pants. We found some different stickers from my scrapbook materials and subdued (colored black) some Field Artillery Officer's cross-cannons and a Lt Colonel rank for the colors. Then we took a Major's leaf and colored that silver for the cap. So, actually, Chris went as a Field Artillery Batallion Commander. Yeah, I had fun dressing him up.
The latest is as such: I will be activated either Dec 6 or 11th and head to Ft Stewart (again!) until 23 Dec. They're planning on giving us Dec 23-Jan 2 off for Christmas to spend with our families, then back to Stewart. We train in California from late April- late May and then fly "across the pond" probably within a month or two of that. Although it's a 23 month activation, we're only supposed to do a 12 month tour in Iraq, barring any tour extensions like most of the units that have been there since I left there the first time. This time, however, it'll be better. Phones and internet will be more readily (sp?) available and we'll actually have a scheduled departure and return time frame. We're supposed to be going to Camp Victory near Baghdad, actually on the western outskirts. From what I understand, that area encompasses the western Palace site our unit helped take and spent 10 days at in April '03 and the Baghdad Int'l Airport (BIAP) which our task force took from 03-04 April last year. There's supposedly a PX, a gym, basketball court. A friend of mine from 10th Mountain Division (Ft Drum, NY) that I went to chemical school with is there right now. He says it's not bad. As I understand, we'll be living in the "trailer park" that his unit originally occupied earlier this year with AC/heated trailers. He did mention, though, that sometimes the uniform is DCU's and full battle rattle, including the body armor. Anyway, that's about it for now. Just wanted to keep everyone informed.

Eddie, we're praying for you. It'll be alright- just gotta' keep the faith. We too are looking forward to seeing everyone at Mom and Dad's. I don't think I've decorated a tree at home since I got married. I can't wait. Mom, find the Harry Belafonte Christmas tape. That was always one of my favorite parts of decorating the tree at home.

Nothing special

My kids ages are: Ashley, 17 going on 37; Corey 14 and Emma 2.5. Oh and Shawn is 31!!!! Ha! Ha! Ha!

Chris/Michelle.... which bookstore is closest to you, Barnes & Noble or Waldenbooks??? I here Chris is quite the avid reader and would like to get him a gift certificate so that he may pick what he wants.

Joyce, I pray and hope that everything will be ok with Eddie and Cathy.

Jeremy, Shawn is looking forward to seeing you at Christmas and desperately wants you to get his gag gift!

It's good to hear that you are so enthusiastic about your new career, Howie! I wish you the best. It takes a special to WANT to be a teacher. Tell Lol I'm looking forward to all her Christmas goodies!

That's all for now!!!

Hope everyone has a safe and filling Thanksgiving.

To answer your question, Joyce, I do not remember being baptized. I don't think I ever have been. Sorry Aunt B! I do believe that you can commit your life to Jesus without getting all wet though!

Question

This week's question is: Were you baptized or dedicated as an infant? If so, where and by whom?

I accepted Jesus as my Savior during a VBS. Rev Chandler did the evangelism emphasis talk even though he wasn't our pastor at the time. We were between pastors. I remember feeling led to make a decision but could not make my legs stand up. I felt that I had a concrete block in my lap so I did nothing at the time but I knew that by doing nothing, I had made a decision that I couldn't live with. When the invitation was given the next time, I went up and accepted Jesus. After I started up the aisle, I felt that I was walking on air. I was baptized at Cannons Ferry. I don't remember who did the baptism but I remember being cold and embarrassed at having to get dressed in one of the fishhouses (I guess) with other people around. I don't remember anybody else who was baptized at the time but I remember there were quite a few people. It might have been a combined baptism service with other churches. I remember Mama being there helping me get dressed.

Cathy had another mole removed last Friday. The doctor was still not concerned about the knot on her neck and could not schedule surgery until sometime in December so she decided to wait until the first of the year to pursue it as December is a terrible time to be off at the bank.

Ed

The doctor took a biopsy of an suspicious area today and felt certain that it was malignant. He is scheduling an appointment with a surgeon in Chapel Hill sometime soon. Will let you know when we know. Please continue to pray for us.

My early childhood bedroom was also the bedroom adjacent to Mom and Dad's. I shared it with Gloria. At times, we would scratch each other's back. I remember I always got to scratch hers first which meant that usually my back didn't get scratched because I went to sleep while scratching hers. When I was too talkative, she would threaten to tell ghost stories and scare me to get me to be quiet. We slept in a single bed which I remember calling it Gloria's new suite. It had a reddish finish with four short posts. The dresser was just a single with 3 drawers. I remember it well because the mirror rotated back and forward on bolts. When Ben was small, he used the dresser and later, I think I painted it white with yellow drawers. Later, Hannah used just the mirror in her room. The beige bookcase bedroom suite (Margaret's), well, Rick and I used it when we got married for the first year.

In my teen years in Edenton, the view from my window was the railroad track during the day and the airport search light in the sky at night. Both of these sight were very unique to me, even though the train only traveled on this track when it was going to unload Cotton Mill freight.

Later years, in my upstairs bedroom in Tyner, the sights from the windows were limited. I don't remember looking out during the daylight hours much, but I do remember looking up at the stars, especially in the summer. Occasionally I would climb out onto the kitchen roof and catch a few rays. I always remember curtains or blinds on the windows. During the winter, this bedroom was heated. There was a hole in the floor where Dad installed about a 12"x 12" grate which was over the den heater. Each night the vent was open about an hour before bedtime and then closed in the morning, which was quite toasty as I remember. Since this bedroom was upstairs and out of sight, I painted it lavender and wrote my friend's name creatively on the wall!

Joyce, I'll sign up for potato salad, string beans and a dessert for the 11th. The reason my last blog was so late is because I went to sleep at 9:00 on the sofa, Rick watched TV till 1:00 and when I got in bed four hours later (at 1:00), I was wide awake, so I blogged.

Ed

Ed is having a barium xray today and he feels certain that he is facing some kind of surgery for a blockage. He is so private and did not want me to put this on but you know me. Please pray for us. Will call and let you know what and when we know.

Cathy has also decided to pursue having a knot taken off her neck which has been there for awhile but the doctor said her insurance would probably not pay because it would be considered cosmetic surgery. I'm glad that she is having it done. She goes to the doctor today but feels sure that they won't do the surgery today.

Yes, we're praying things will have settled down over there before Chris goes. Yes, we're looking forward to both families being her for Thanksgiving. We were suppose to go to Howie and Lol's but Gene begged them to come here. He knew I could decorate the tree by myself and he knew he didn't want to do it, so he said the thought they should all come here and decorate the tree at that time. I just hope I can get my house back together by then. Right now we have no bathroom downstairs, but that is going well and should be finished by then, I told him it had to be with 11 people here. Upstairs is another matter. Everything from our room is in the other bedrooms, for our room to be painted. There was moisture in the wall and ceiling. Had a plumber out and determined that it was not a plumbing problem but a roof problem. So far we have not found anyone who can do it in time. We can't paint without it being ruined if it rains, and I do not want to put the room back together and then start all over again. I have some catching up to do on the blog, yes I do remember the new bedroom suite, did not remember that it was mine, but I do remember it. Childhood bedroom, when Bertha was born and was a baby, there was a small bedroom right next to Mama and Dads, on the back of the house. We had two double beds in there and there was very limited space between them. Joyce, Gloria and I slept in that room and believe me, it was too close to Mama and Dads, if you know what I mean. But the closet next to it was large, walk-in, but what a mess it was. There always seemed to be clothes on the floor. Don't remember when we moved to bedroom upstairs, but maybe when we got the new bedroom suite. I'm not sure if we did all of the time, but there were times that Joyce, Gloria and I all slept in the double bed upstairs, maybe in the winter so we could stay warm. None of our bedrooms were heated. I also remember when we had our first bathroom put in. Some of you probably didn't know that Joyce, Gloria and I were that old - we had a outhouse out back. I also remember one Christmas, when we took Bertha, as a baby, maybe two or so, to sleep with us on Christmas Eve, so we could bring her down on Christmas morning. She was such a cute kid, I remember when she took her first steps. She was in the yard to the right of the kitchen. Mother was at work. I also remember ironing her cute dresses. I was twelve when she was born so I guess I was around 13 when she walked. I guess I was a little "Mother" to her because of Mother working. Don't remember about the school year, but during the summer, I (I guess with help from sisters) did all the laundry, which was definitly more than just dropping them in the washer and dryer. We had a wringer type. Each piece had to be put through the wringer to get excess water out and they went from the washer to two tubs of water. In other words, they were rinsed twice, which meant each piece was fed into the ringer three times and then hung on the line outside. Oh, Bertha, you forgot one of your other nicknames. I know that you remember, but I won't list it as I'm sure you don't want others to call you that now. I thought I might get to bed at a decent time, but did not know I was going to write a book.

Birth Years

Joyce,
Chris' birthyear- 1994
Cortlyn's " " -1996
Mandi's " "- 1998
Yeah, the joke was that every time there was a winter Olympics, Chelle was pregnant.

Christmas

Well, folks, it looks like I may be able to do Christmas with my immediate family (even if it is at a hotel room at Ft Stewart), but I'll more than likely miss the Byrum family again this year. Don't know if it made it in the papers up y'alls way, but as of 11am Sun, 07 Nov 04, our brigade has officially received the "Alert Order" from Washington and will be activated early next month. We will then head down to Ft Stewart either that day or the next where we'll be getting whatever equipment we're missing and train up for Iraq. Currently we have a weapons range scheduled for 23 December. We head to California to train either March or April and will leave for overseas some time after that. Don't worry, it'll be okay just like last time, but my living conditions should be a little better. Anyway, just wanted to keep the family up to date on what's going on. Love everybody and will keep ya' posted as things develop. We plan on being at Mom and Dad's for Thanksgiving. Love y'all.
Chris

birth years

Could we please have the birth years of everyone under 18? It's kinda hard looking for Christmas gifts when you're not sure how old everyone is. Thanks.

Daddy

Talked to Daddy this morning and asked him about his pastimes as a boy. He said he remembers that he enjoyed doing jobs where he could make a little money, like picking strawberries for 15-20 cents. He said he and Aunt Carrie had rabbit boxes and they always checked them every morning before going to school. They would sell the rabbits for 75cents. 75 cents seems like a lot for a rabbit to me even today but what do I know. One of Cathy's favorite stories was hearing Daddy talk about how he would play tag as a boy and someone would grab his sweater and because of the material that it was made of, it would stretch way to his knees and stay there. When Mama and Daddy came up here for her Grandparents Day, she tried to get him to tell her class that story and of course because of his "John Dinkish" ways, he wouldn't but Mama did.

Daddy was called Bud by his family and still is. Of course everyone knows his nickname now is "Cecil Bud"

Question

This week's question is: Describe your childhood bedroom. What was the view from your window?

There's only one word to describe our childhood bedroom and that is JUNKY. We didn't know we were poor but we must have been. I don't remember anybody else's bedroom without curtains except ours. Anybody remember when Margaret got the beige bookcase bedroom suite. That's the only new bedroom furniture I remember us ever getting. Boy, were we proud. Funny how neither of my kids ever got new bedroom furniture either. But they turned out okay and so did all of us. I'm okay and you're okay.

I don't ever remember enjoying the view from our bedroom window. Probably because we didn't have any curtains and who wants to walk up and look out the window when there are no curtains.

I would respond, but it's too late, maybe tomorrow. I haven't been able to get my internet connection for a few days. Margaret

Christmas Plans

Exactly what differences, mistakes and quirks was Bertie speaking of? Personally I am not aware of any in the Cecil G Byrum-Emma Layton family of eastern North Carolina. Of course I've also been accused of being a ostrich.

I'm also very thankful for being a part of this Cecil G Byrum-Emma Layton family of eastern North Carolina. I'm also thankful for being born in a country where should our leader die, there would not be a huge international controversy about where he would be permitted to be buried. You read the Bible and read the Bible and it's still baffling (at least to me).

Michelle Lee, you're going to have to fill us in on the computer lingo. I know what :) means but what does :OP mean?

Menu for Christmas is Ribs, Barbecue, Chicken, Potato Salad, Tomato Pudding, Sweet Potatoes, Slaw, Corn/Butter Beans, String Beans, Rolls, Tea and all the desserts in the world. This menu is subject to change if the Grillmaster restaurant where I plan to get the ribs and barbecue closes. I thought we would try to eat around 1PM. Any other ideas? Feel free to offer them (I reserve the right to ignore them) and bring anything you want. I might ask Terri to bring her famous lasagna also. Unless someone has strong opposition, we will still plan to exchange a fun gift.

I didn't realize how much Barry is like my two sisters. I kinda wish the time was not entered on the blog when I see how late y'all are up. How do you keep going? I promise not to mention it again.

Christmas Plans

While creating the November calendar for preschool, my curriculum suggested beginning a family tradition for the Thanksgiving holidays. Thought maybe you'd like to see the ones they suggest or begin a tradition of your own.
1. Early on Thanksgiving morning, take a nature walk, then have a special thank you prayer.
2. Buy a special Thanksgiving book to be read annually.
3. With all the family present, prepare and deliver a food basket for the needed or homebound.
4. Visit a nursing home (and be thankful that Mom only had to live there for 5 months).
5. Family members help to prepare a special devotional period.
6. Each family member select and help prepare one special dish for Thanksgiving dinner.

I am thankful for such a wonderful, loving, and supportive family. I am thankful that we can accept and overlook each of our differences, mistakes and quirks and still appreciate our positive qualities. I am thankful for parents who reared us that way and for Jesus's perfect example of that love. Dios le ama! God loves you! (I'm getting ready to help out at Hispanic Day in our association.)

Is it too early to discuss Christmas plans for the 11th, Joyce? Menu, time, other info? B.

Bertha's blog

Bertha is having problems getting on the blog so she asked me to blog the following for her:

Bertha - Named after Mom's mom, Bertha Harrell Layton (no middle name) Grandmama Layton wanted to name me Jane.
Elizabeth - Named after Dad's mom, Missouri Elizabeth Boyce Byrum, (called Lizzie)

Nickname - Dad called me Bertie, some call me Bertie B., Preschool calls me Mrs. B. Emma Ervin calls me Aunt B.

Dad took a spill yesterday and has a whopper of a black eye. His cheek bone took the brunt of the fall. It's sore, but not hurting.

Thanks, Bertie B.

I remember wondering why Mama didn't call Bertha "Elizabeth" because I felt that it was a prettier name than Bertha but Mama said she was afraid people would resort to calling her Lizzie and she did not want that. I agree that Bertha is preferable to Lizzie.

The problem may be related to the election because so many people are blogging about the wonderful news or the terrible news dependable on which side of the fence you are sitting. I could not get on last night until after church.

Of course, the questions are for anyone who wants to respond, young or old, certainly not just for those of us who already know more about each other than we care to think about. I had hoped that more would respond to the pastime question also. It seems that when we're all together, we really don't have time to do anything except eat, not to imply that eating is not important. Oh yeah, it's very important.

Family Names and No Child Left Behind

Mom, you got your own name wrong??? As I remember, it wasn't Margaret Faye, but "Mart Faye".
My middle name, Piper, is Grandfather Belvin's middle name. Luckily, mom wouldn't let dad name me the full name he wanted to after Grandfather Belvin- Norfleet Piper. Of course, Chelle calls me "Piper" as did Grandmother Belvin to Granddad Belvin. Of course, I'm nothing like that man. No offense, but Thank God!
Joyce, I can't give you all the total details of the No Child Left Behind Act, but I think Georgia's version is the Kids have to Work at a Higher than usual to Catch Up with the Rest of the Country Act. Everybody knows that Ga is low in the academic rankings, 47th or 48th I think (we actually gained one spot last year). However, we're in such a big hurry to catch up, instead of trying to make a little progress each year, we're pushing the kids too hard. All the 4th and 5th graders in Chris' school have to do a science project for an upcoming County Science Fair. The standards for the work by these 4th and 5th graders are the same ones I started having to do as a freshman or a sophomore in high school when my biology teacher was also a professor at Eastern Va Med School. We're burning these kids out. I don't mind helping with home/school work, but I really thought I was doing science projects when I graduated school. We couldn't even do the standard Belvin Solar Power science project that Howie and I both did in 2 different grades because Chris has to use the scientific process, hypothesis, experiment log, research log, etc. All 3 of my kids' academic requirements are way beyond what we were doing at the same ages. It's ridiculous sometimes. Cortlyn's Kindergarten teacher told me that Liberty County (Ft Stewart) schools were having to change curriculums in the middle of the semester to keep up with State requirements and even the teachers weren't able to get the teaching materials in a timely manner to keep up with the requirements. Here in Bibb County, even special education children have the same requirements as your average child with no special needs. We have an end of the year test for each grade and the special ed kids in each grade have to score the same on the test as the other 3rd graders. Michelle's sister, Dianna, has some 6th graders who are 16 reading on a 2nd grade level (due to special needs) that are expected to achieve regular 6th grade standards. She teaches what is called "Psycho Ed". Dianna's my size and is trained to take down students Ricky's size.
On a positive note, not to rub it in, I'm excited about the next four years and feel okay to keep serving in the military. If Scary Kerry had won, I don't what I would've done. I see North Carolina carried Bush, despite the Hickory vote. Just kiddin'. And the Republican party has retained control of the Ga State Senate and captured the Ga State House for the first time since the ugly, post-Civil War Reconstruction days. I must admit though, had we lived in the 3rd US Congressional District, I would have voted for the Democratic incumbent, Jim Marshall. He was a decorated Army Ranger during Vietnam and has done alot for veterans, disabled Vets, small hospitals, etc. in the past. I was actually ashamed to be connected with the Republican challenger and all his attack tactics. Anyway, I understand that Bush and Kerry agree this election has divided the country and that the two agree that they need to work together to unify the country. Anyway, that's all I got to say about that.
Mom and Joyce, will e-mail you about your popcorn orders and am still waiting to hear from everyone else. Of course, Howie, I know you've got your own cub scout and his pack to support. Oh, did I tell ya'? I'm Chris' Asst Den Leader. Although, given how many den leaders' meetings and Pack Meeting I've had to cover down for Jeff (Chris' Den Leader) before I was Asst Den Leader, I may end up acting as Den Leader. Well, gotta' run help Chris with his research. I have drill this weekend. Hopefully, it'll end on Sunday as scheduled and we won't be activated a month ahead of schedule as rumored.

Joyce, is this to keep our minds working. I do remember now Barry coming to go to soccer camp at Norfolk Academy. Actually I had forgotten that your middle name was Layton. My name, of course, Margaret was mother's middle name, but some reading this may not have known that fact. Being born at home, Mother filled out the birth certificate. Margaret was on there two or three times and each one was spelled differently. Don't have a clue where my middle name came from, Faye, I guess they just thought it went well with Margaret. Again some reading this may not know but growing up I was always Margaret Faye. After graduating high school, when I went to business school, I was asked if I went by one or both of my names. I did not know,so everyone called me just Margaret. It wasn't too long before I realized that people at home and in our neighborhood called me both names. Once when I was working at Wachovia Bank, one of the employees came and asked if my name was Margaret Byrum and I said yes. Mother came into the bank and asked for Margaret Byrum and of course at that time I was married. In September, I registered to attend the meeting in Salt Lake City and even though I have been married for 40 years and I had never done that before, I filled out the form as my name being Margaret B. Byrum. I just couldn't believe it. I just it was the fact that I was almost 62 at the time. Age really does make a difference. Edith says that she feels that the accident definitely aged both of us. Oh well, it beats the alternative. I am so grateful to be alive and feeling well.

Question

This week's question: Who gave you your name and why? Did you have a family nickname? How did you get it?

The only time I remember any discussion about the origin of my name was Mama saying she picked it because she did not know anyone around with that name and then she found out later that there was a girl a few miles down the road whose name was the same as mine, Joyce Byrum. Bertie may not remember her but I'm sure Margaret does. I think she was a year or two older than Margaret. Had a sister named Dianne and an older brother but I can't remember his name but I remember thinking he was cool. Of course my middle name, Layton, was Mama's maiden name. I always hated that growing up but now I'm glad that it's part of my name. Never had a nickname that I recall. I remember Daddy always calling Mama "Bunk" for some reason but the only name I remember her calling him is not publishable but it's a favorite "Layton" word, particularly of Ima Jean.

Don't forget to vote tomorrow. Wouldn't it be nice if everyone eligible to vote, voted? Or maybe not. I read this ditty last week somewhere, "When you rob Peter to pay Paul, you can always count on Paul's support."

HI

Feelings on:
Elections - Just VOTE your conscious, and hope that we can all live with the results!
No Child Left Behind -"The overall purpose of the law is to ensure that each child in America is able to meet the high learning standards of the state where he or she lives. The specific goals of the law, as spelled out in the Federal Register issued on March 6, 2002, are:All students will reach high standards, at a minimum attaining proficiency or better in reading and mathematics by 2013-2014. By 2013-2014, all students will be proficient in reading by the end of the third grade. All limited English proficient students will become proficient in English. By 2005-2006, all students will be taught by highly qualified teachers. All students will be educated in learning environments that are safe, drug free and conducive to learning. All students will graduate from high school."
Probably what Howie is speaking of is the problem of "time" to implement and money for funding. Such as: Annual testing of all students against state standards in reading and mathematics in grades 3-8 and in science at three times in a student?s school career (including once in high school).
Memories of childhood past times: I, like Margaret, don't remember reading unless I had to for school. Don't remember any teachers who encouraged reading for enjoyment "way back then". Most of my memories are outside memories, like climbing trees with my afterschool snack - which included a jar of water and a mayonnaise sandwich, playing in the back of Dad's old blue pickup with Bobby and Ronnie Byrum which was our "club house", and walking back of the field exploring. I guess I just tried to stay outside so I wouldn't have to do any work inside, or was it "out of sight-out of mind"? Don't remember Mom folding any clothes anywhere - seems like they just stayed in the clothes basket or on the line.

Congratulations Howie! I'm proud of you! And that crack about feeling sorry for the students of the 50 year old women - well, we have the maturity, and some of us still have the enthusiasm to be good teachers! (energy-well, I'm not sure about)

Test on www.theadvocates.org: Test showed that I'm a Conservative.

Looking forward to seeing everyone at Christmas, just looked at the calendar and I'll be decorating in just 4 weeks - EEEEK! Bertha

no child left behind

Howard, what is your take on the no child left behind program? Being in the system you probably have a better take on it than any of us. I don't know much about it except the name sounds good. Is my ignorance showing?
Margaret, I remember Barry spending a week with you and going to a soccer camp.

Howie, I'm ashamed of you. I had no idea. I think you just want to be different from Chris. Only joking. Have fun at the party and the garage sale. Personally, I'll be glad when the election is over. Barry, I guess you never saw any of those things because you never came and stayed with me during the summer. I wonder why. You and Chris weren't too far in age. Of course it's not too late. I'm sure I could find a movie that would show you those things, if not, I'm sure Gene could find some TV programs that did.

According to Mom's political quiz, I'm a shallow shortstop.

On a related note, Erskine Bowles and Richard Burr going back and forth (and back and forth and back and forth) between innings nearly ruined a great World Series. No high road to the Senate for these boys.

I have never seen The Blue Lagoon, or any movie with boobs and heinies.

"D" word

Howard, shame on you for saying that ugly "D" word. You must go and wash your mouth out with soap right now!

political quiz

Everyone needs to go to www.theadvocates.org and take the world's smallest political quiz to find out where you fit in the political realm of things. It told me I was a conservative which really didn't surprise me. There's only about 8 questions so it really only takes a minute or two. The quiz is on the right top corner of the screen. Any takers?

It's fun to read the blog when so many are participating. I was almost afraid to respond, I'll get fussed at by Joyce for being up so late. I do not remember Mother folding clothes in the car. I know I never read except what was required for school and I probably did not do enough of that. I had forgotten about not having a radio in the house until I read the blogg. I certainly remember sitting in the car on Sunday afternoons and listening to the Top (ever how many). I assume it was you Joyce that did that with me. I don't think I was alone. I thought that Jeremy was a little crazy, but after seeing the pictures of the snake, I'm convinced. I'm going to bed, Joyce. Of course I know you're right, but I always run out of time to get everything done.

Us too!

Hey gang! Happy Anniversary to Bertha/Ricky, Eddie/Joyce and whoever else I didn't know about until Blogger. Barry, thanks for setting it up. We missed ya'. Whoever can, let Ben and Terry know we missed them too.
We had a good time camping as well, especially Sat night after we fixed the leak in our mattress and didn't wake up at 4 am with our butts touching the ground with our feet and heads elevated like a recliner. Our Cub Scout pack (our 'cause I'm Chris' Asst. Den Leader now) has a campout Nov 13-14. Looking forward to it.
I almost became a Kirby Vaccum cleaner salesman/mgr today, but Mon-Sat 11am-7pm doesn't fit in with being a father of kids age 10 and younger. The financial incentives are there, but family's more important, especially since my Guard unit's fixin' to be activated in the next month or two and I'll be getting Active duty pay for the next 12-18 months once that happens. My psychologist at the Macon VA Clinic says I don't have Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (Thank God!) but that I have Nightmare Disorder and Adjustment (to civilian life) Disorder with anxiety and depression. I have an appointment on Friday morning at the Dublin VA clinic with a psychiatrist to see if she wants to put me on any drugs. However, the psychologist put in her letter to the unit that I should be good to go in 2-3 months. This may rule out Officer school, but at least I won't get left behind bymy platoon when they deploy. When they get back, we're probably going back to Active Duty. The civilian world ain't cuttin' it and Michelle and I both miss real Army life. Only have 12 more years and I can retire. This time I'll be smart and finish a degree in biology or some kind of science the employers want at night so I won't end up where I'm at now when I'm fixin' to retire.
Oh, it's that time of year again for Cub Scouts-Popcorn time! Check out www.trails-end.com and let me know what you need for us to order for you. This especially goes for our Eagle Scout, Jeremy, who is eager to continue supporting scouting and said he wanted to buy popcorn before and didn't get the chance. (I'm such a s.o.b.)
Oh, and I remember "Blue Lagoon" too. It was the first movie I saw with boobies. It was good to see everybody again since we miss so many events. Christie, let your dad know we expect to see him at the Christmas family get together. Take care everybody and watch out for that flu bug that we can't get shots for. And vote Republican on November 2.

Memories from today and long ago

Question for the week: What was/is your favorite pastime as a child? Did/Do you prefer doing it alone or with someone else?

It seems that my favorite pastime was reading even though I don't remember that we had a lot of books. I particularly liked reading in the spring or fall when it was chilly inside. I would go out and read in the car where it was toasty warm from the sun. I also remember Gloria and I writing cartoon captions in Daddy's farm books. I wonder whatever happened to those books. Does anyone remember Mama going out to the car to fold clothes and listen to her soap opera stories on the radio or was it just to get away from us youngins'?

Hello, everyone! I think Dad enjoyed his birthday. He and Joan came over and I cooked Dad pickled herring. I say Dad, because Joan doesn't eat fish except flounder. Joan had leftover pork chops that Ricky grilled on Thursday.

I too enjoyed camping, but maybe the first weekend in Oct is the best, - cool, but not too cool. Did the weather make anyone sick? Not me or Rick. Sorry that no one ate the chips that I brought for the hotdog lunch, but I didn't realize that ya'll were eating lunch. Hannah also said as we cooked supper on Saturday, "When are we suppose to eat the baked beans that I brought?" She missed lunch also. Oops! Love to you all, Aunt B.

.

Barry, It was nice to hear from you on the blogg. We missed you camping. Don't have time right now, but will share some of the memories shared last weekend, later. After reading Cathy's about she and Hannah's visit with me, it made me remember when Christy and a friend came to visit and I took them to see Blue Lagoon, which I believe was rated PG13. Neither of them were 13. Last weekend Christy said that was the first time that she had seen a naked male butt. It made me realize that I soon have to retire, so my own grandchildren can come to stay with me. Hope to be able to do that maybe by next April, our annual meeting, but don't tell my boss. She has made me promise her that I will give her plenty of notice, which I will, but I don't think I could stand 5 months of teaching her what I do. Also don't tell Gene, I don't want him to panic. Of course, Michelle had a solution to that also, they would move here and I could teach her how to do my job and I could take care of the children, making memories every day. I told her, I'd pass on that one. Love the kids, but don't want to be full time sitter. Margaret, Grammy

I was speaking of the sites which use inappropriate words like "damn", of course. Wouldn't want to corrupt little Howie's mind.
Happy Birthday today to Dad who is 84 years young!
Why don't we start writing our memories on the blog as we think of them? Margaret, maybe you could share some of the ones that were written down at the camping trip also.
I plan to serve Ed leftover spaghetti tonight like we had on our wedding night at Mama Diangelo's in Newport News on 10/22/67. So romantic!

What are all these inappropriate sites you find so interesting, Mom?

Fixed the blog template so the words don't run offscreen -- sorry it took so long. Happy anniversaries all around (Bertha & Ricky, Mom & Dad ... anyone else?).

Love to all.

Howard, there are much more interesting sites than ours out there. Not sure what ages are included in your technology class. If it is kids, some of the more interesting ones may not be appropriate.

Enjoyed this weekend so much. I'm glad all of my family was able to be there. If the wind had just not been blowing so much. Thanks Joyce for all that you do for us to be able to go camping. I promise I'll plan the menues and bring Saturday night dinner next year. Also thanks to all who share family memories. After we left, Gene said that he would not go again if we went in October, it was just too cold. We stopped at Ralph's for barbeque to take home and Chris, Michelle and family were there getting ready to leave. They had lunch and was getting some to take home. I slept all the way home. It was beautiful weather when we got home. After finishing unpacking, I worked in our back yard and also washed my car. I was tired, but it felt so good. I think I'm finally going to get my bedroom painted this week so I can move back upstairs. (notice I'm going to get it painted, not that I;m going to paint). I think those days are over for me. It'll feel good being back upstairs.

I have to share a horrible incident, or what could have been horrible with all of you. Yesterday, when going home from work, I was driving down Granby Street, where the speed limit is 15. As I was in an insection, I saw a car flying down a side street towards me. He or she had a stop sign. Luckly I didn't have time to react, because I would probably have stopped and gotten hit. They slammed on brakes, when they saw me, brakes squeeling and then swearved (sp) behind me. I went back by there, there were skid marks 12 to 14 feet long. I wonder how fast you have to be going to leave skid marks that long and it still now have stopped you. I thanked God and I cried.

I love all of you guys. Margaret

Party!

Yes! I did have a blast last Saturday night. They really pulled one over on me. I wouldn't have known anything if I hadn't overheard Amber at preschool (she went with me on Friday because she didn't have school) say to some of the children, "My granny's birthday is this month, October, but I can't talk about it. My momma told me I can't talk about it." Hannah had not planned to tell her, but she overheard Hannah talking about it on the Tuesday before, so the cat was out of the bag. When Ben, Amber and I went to lunch on Friday after preschool, Amber just giggled and really had to put her hand over her own mouth to keep from telling me. Had good food, company and karaoke. My voice is still hoarse! Will see you all late on Friday. Hannah is suppose to put our tent up before dark, but if any of you want to help, that would be great. I have a 3:45 doct. appt in Greenville and will be driving straight from there. Looks like the weather will be good - with highs around 70 degrees. Just a few more hours, and I'll be 1/2 a century old! I love it - you know some people never make it. I put a bright fall arrangement on Mom's grave today. She would have liked it! I think that she would have like karaoke also! She so loved to sing. Let's sing some for her on Saturday! I saw Emma Ervin today. Those of you who haven't seen (or heard) her lately won't believe her vocabulary! She pretty bright!!! and cute as a button! I'm getting excited just thinking about this weekend! Gotta go - love, Aunt B.

We really did have a good time Saturday night. But no one had a better time than Amber. I'm glad she came. I also think BB also enjoyed it. Looking forward to seeing everyone this weekend.

Camping

Hello. What a blast we had Saturday night at the "surprise" party for BB. Much Fun!
Jeremy and Ed are bringing firewood for the camping trip. If anyone else has any and wants to bring it, please do. It looks like we might need to keep the fire going to keep the polar bears away. Brrr. Looking forward to seeing everyone.

camping checklist

Needed:
Hotdogs: Margaret
Buns: Cathy
Bread: Margaret
Eggs: Margaret
Spaghetti Sauce: Joyce
Spaghetti: Joyce
French Bread for Grilling:Christie
Tossed Salad Fixings:Bertha
Salad Dressings:Bertha
Chili: Cathy
Beans: Bertha
Fruit: Margaret
Juice: Margaret
Grits: Joyce
Chips: Bertha
Bacon or Sausage: Everyone
Drinks: Everyone
Ice: Everyone
Applesauce:Christie
Paper Products (plates, cups, napkins): Christie
Plastic Products (eating utensils):Lol
S'mores Stuff: Christie
Milk/Cereal: Lol

Just wanted to catch everyone up on recent events. I didn't get the job in Norfolk. It came down to 3 of us for 2 positions and, like usual, I didn't make the final cut. Oh well, just as well, I suppose. Michelle says God's got a plan. I feel like Dennis Leary on "Rescue Me"- "He's got some splainin' to do". Anyway, I guess this gives me time to work with the docs down here at the Vets' Affairs Clinic. I finally listened to Michelle and went to seek medical assistance after being back for a little over a year. Michelle kept telling me I wasn't the person I was before I went to Iraq. I was reading an article on a military website about Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and saw that I have most of the symptoms. It said 1 out of 6 of the guys who have been to Iraq suffer from it. The head shrinker told me that, although I don't have full blown PTSD, I have alot of the symptoms. Ya' think? I already told her that. "Here's your sign". Tell ya what, though, it was a good idea going. They're hooking me up with all the medical benefits I've been too busy to pursue. They've got me set up for a physical on Saturday (hope I don't get the finger) and also are going to set me up with an eye exam to update my prescription and a dental exam, which is cool because they're only supposed to cover dental for 90-120 days from the time you get out of the service. Any way, that's it for now. Can't wait to go camping and see everyone. We'll be bringing my truck this time. Got me a '04 Slate Grey Dodge Ram 1500. Woohoo! Anyway, see y'all later.

Cathy, I figured we'd have about 28-29 people camping. I'll bring about 10 pounds of hotdogs. I think that should be enough. I leave for Salt Lake City on Wednesday morning. Will be back on Saturday-more training. Looking forward to seeing everyone when we camp. Margaret

Items I'll bring

I'm so ready to go camping and excited about it being Emma's first!!

I'll bring:

French Bread
Applesauce
Paper & plastic products
Items for S'mores

I'll also bring some sort of nature craft for the kids to make. Maybe pictures frames like we all made soooo long ago at Massanutten (sp?)

See you all soon!

Latest

Well, let's see...it's been awhile since we've posted. Well, let's back track. Tonight we introduced the kids to fondu. We had beef fondu and fondella cheese fondu with apples and bread. Michelle's mom brought back all kinds of cheese from the cheese state (Wisconsin). The kids now want to do it all the time. Unfortunately, due to time constraints (girls have gymnastics on Monday from 4-5, get home around 5:30 and Michelle works til 5:30), there wasn't time for chocolate fondu. Will save that for another night.
This weekend, Michelle's mom and I cleaned up the hill and I got into some poison ivy. I was smart enough to wear gloves and jeans, but not smart enough to wear long sleeves like I had planned. I've been real scatter brained lately- forgot Chris first cub scout pack meeting Thurs and first den meeting yesterday; pretty bad considering I'm the pack training coordinator.And Michelle just made a balloon dog using her new balloons and instructions. We had a church picnic yesterday. That was fun, although Cortlyn found out the hard way about Ga red clay.
Don't know if Mom's told anyone, but I had an interview three weeks ago with a defense contractor down in Albany,GA (about 2 hours from here) for a job doing contract work for the Navy in Norfolk. He told me that, although he still had to interview six more people, I "definitely had his attention" and that I would hear something in 2-3 weeks. E-mailed him last Tuesday (2 wks later) and he replied letting me know he had gotten side-tracked with another proposal but that he had disqual'd a handful of people and that I was still in the running for one of the 2 positions. Tomorrow makes 3 wks, but I'll wait to e-mail him again Wed if I don't hear from him. Keep your fingers crossed. We're all excited about the possibility of moving back to Va and being closer to everyone.

Hurricane Frances left us without power for about a day and a half and blew my neighbor's tree down outside our bedroom window; only damage for us was it split one of our trees (but gave me an excuse to buy a Poulan 16" chainsaw- since the 2 Husqvarna's I got wouldn't start). Ivan was less eventful, leaving us without power for about an hour in the evening and Jean brought wind and rain, but now still just a bunch of rain. I've had to backwash the pool twice today to keep the water level down. Well, that's about it. Catch y'all in a couple weeks. We're bringing our camping stove and gear as well. So, we ought to have enough flame sources (besides the Belvin men's butts) between everyone. Love y'all.

Chris and the Ga Belvin Clan

Camping

Let's go camping! My family will bring the salad fixings - lettuce, broccoli, cauliflower, carrots, green pepper, onion, cheese, tomato, bacon bits, and croutons. Anything not listed that you want, please bring. I will bring some dressing, but I suggest if you're picky, bring your favorite. We'll also bring chips and baked beans.

I am leaving tomorrow to go to Clyde, NC, west of Asheville. I will be working with the Baptist Men's disaster relief team. I am certified in TECC, temporary emergency child care. I will be back home Thursday night. Bertha

I will bring the hot dog buns and chili. How many hot dogs are you bringing, Margaret? I will bring more than enough chili, but I would like to know how many buns to bring. I am also bringing sausage, as opposed to bacon, if anyone wants to know. Do we need to bring our stove? Looking forward to the trip!

Joyce, I'm sorry you always get stuck with this. I was only joking about your doing it. I guess since no one else volunteered, you decided that by default, it was left to you. Sorry. I'll bring the hotdogs for everyone, eggs, bread, fruit, orange juice. I'll also bring chopped onions, not as many as before since very few eat them on the hotdogs. Does anyone else want to bring the hotdog rolls? Any thing else you need me to do, let me know. Margaret

CAMPING, CONTINUED

"GOOD DAY" I WILL BE MAKING HOMEMADE SPAGHETTI SAUCE AHEAD OF TIME SO IF ANYONE PREFERS STORE BOUGHT KIND, PLEASE BRING IT. PLEASE SIGN UP FOR ANYTHING ELSE ON THE LIST AS YOU FEEL LED.

camping

LET’S GO CAMPING!!!! OCTOBER 15-17

FRIDAY NIGHT: YOYO (You’re On Your Own)

SATURDAY MORNING:
BACON OR SAUSAGE
EGGS
GRITS
FRUIT
JUICE

SATURDAY LUNCH: HOTDOGS, BEANS, CHILI, CHIPS, APPLESAUCE

SATURDAY NIGHT: SPAGHETTI, TOSSED SALAD, BREAD

SUNDAY MORNING:
BACON OR SAUSAGE
FRENCH TOAST
FRUIT
JUICE


EVERYONE NEEDS TO BRING:
LAWN CHAIRS
DRINKS
SNACKS
FLASHLIGHT
TOILETRIES
1LB BACON OR SAUSAGE

I WILL BRING:
SALT/PEPPER
MARGARINE
SYRUP
MAYO/MUSTARD
COFFEE/SUGAR/MILK
KETCHUP


ED WILL HAVE HIS BOAT FOR ANYONE WHO WANTS TO GO OUT BUT WE ONLY HAVE ONE CHILD’S LIFE JACKET SO IF YOU HAVE ANY, PLEASE BRING THEM.

I went with Joan to her niece's wedding on Saturday in Fredricksburg, Va on Saturday. She has a very nice family. Her niece married a minister from LA and will be living in Mooresville, NC. No damage here from Ivan. How about GA and Hickory?

Jason is having a colonoscopy (spelling?) on Wednesday and an upper bile series on Thursday. Please remember him in your prayers. He has been doing better and has been back at work. Like anyone else would be, he's dreading the test.

Would like to work with the children Friday/Saturday of the camping trip to put on a production Sunday morning for the adults. We'll brain storm and let the children plan the production. I'll just be there to help make costumes & etc. Bertha

Jason was feeling better today and went back to work today. He sees a gastric doctor on Friday.

Had a nice time at the Norfolk Zoo today for Clay's 2nd birthday. Those who attended were Hannah, Clay, Amber, Amber's friend, Danielle, (who also happens to be Richard Earl's step granddaughter), Christie, Shawn, Emma, Ricky and myself. Poor Jason was hit with a terrible case of stomach cramps yesterday and was unable to go. After hospital test, the diagnosis is Crohn's disease. He sees a gastric doctor next week. I understand that if he successfully changes his diet, all should go well. After a nice picnic lunch and a Barney cake, we all enjoy our day with the animals (wild animals are the ones that I'm speaking of). The weather really cooperated! Looking forward to seeing everyone when we camp! Watch out for Hurricane Ivan! Love, Aunt B

Had a nice time with Joyce and Margaret at the Outer Banks this weekend. Learned how to play Tripoly. Gene won! Weather was beautiful - sunny, warm and breezy! Very unlike Francis in Florida. School begins tomorrow. Eleven 3 year olds will keep us pretty busy on Tuesdays and Thursdays until they learn the "ropes". Should be interesting! Good luck tomorrow Christopher, with your interview! Amber continues to have a good year in the multiaged room. Her teacher is very motivating! Clay and Amber spend Tuesday and Thursday afternoons with me. Most of the time, Clay's taking his afternoon nap. Amber is trying very hard to learn to ride her bike. We're so proud of Clay - he's potty trained and he'll just be two next week. I hear that Emma is also potty trained! You moms are doing a good job.

Let's talk food and camping! Do we all want to take our own food or plan a menu like before? We need to make a decision. See yall on the 15th! LOVE Aunt B

As most of you know, we leave for Nags Head tomorrow and will come back next Saturday. Joyce and Bertha are coming down Sunday afternoon and leaving sometime on Monday. Another couple are coming on Tuesday and spending Tuesday night. If anyone else wants to come, the place sleeps 6. Just let us know. I can be reached on my cell 757-537-6653.

Thanks!

Thanks you Aunt Joyce, Aunt Bertha & Aunt Margaret for the birthday cards. Looking forward to seeing you all at the annual camp out!

Happy, Happy Birthday to Christie! Hope it was a good one.

Congratulations to Ash (Chris) and Mandi.

I spoke with Chris tonight and I have to brag on my grandson. I don't know the name of the program (can't find the paper I wrote it on),but some of you may. It's the program where the students read a book and are then tested on it. They get points depending on how well they do. Chris had the highest score in his school with 70 something, but in the last few days he now has 91, also the highest in his school. I leave tomorrow morning for Salt Lake City. It's funny I need to be trained and certified to sell the Noni product for horses, but I can sell to human with not a lot of training. I'll be back on Sunday night. I'll have my cell if anyone needs me. Looking forward to seeing everyone when camping. Chris says his family are planning to come. Also forgot to mention, Michelle's mother is in the hospital. She had chest pains and they've done angeplasty (sp). She had hoped to come home tonight, but the doctor never came in. Since she's a nurse, he may have known she'd want to come home and did not come in on purpose. Keep her in your prayers.

Joyce, As far as the post running off the screen, I've found that if I double clink on the blog message instead of clinking on View, it does not run off the screen. As far as my using bold, etc, I really don't. There was only one word that was that I had bold in my last message. I don't know why it's as it is. My setting says Normal Size. I did seem it have some of it italized, but did not know how it happened in the middle of my typing. Bertha and I went to Williamsburg today to Ben's church for the 9 AM service as well as the 10:30 AM service. Bertha has to be so very proud of Ben. He does such a super job with the music and has such a great voice. After church, we went out to lunch and had a good time and the food was good. I thank Bertha for inviting me to go with her. Looking forward to seeing everyone when we go camping. Margaret

It's nice to see that part of Margaret's healing process is over and hopefully the leg will continue to mend as time goes on. I'm looking forward to riding in her new wheels, maybe. I haven't ridden with her since the accident.

Put the weekend of 10/15-17 on everyone's calendar. Ed said that he thought everyone would prefer to plan their own meals. Can I get some input on that?

I was talking about administrator of the blog. I gave it to Barry and a couple of blogs were completely readable for me so I figured he had done something to correct it but now it's back like it was, running off the screen. Who knows? Anyone?

Ed and I spent last week at Outer Banks Beach Club. Had a real nice time. Cathy was down for the week with Jeremy joining us on Tuesday night. Barry wasn't able to get down there but Bertha, Clay, Daddy and Joan joined us for the day on Tuesday. Enjoyed that.

We're enjoying our sunroom and should be getting some furniture for it soon.

Two new developments of my accident. One not great, but the other is pretty good news. I took my xrays to another doctor to look at and he confirmed what I thought. First upon looking at my xrays, he turned to me and asked if I knew how luck I was to being able to stand on that leg and then he told me that he thought the doctors had done a great job with what my injuries were. He also examined my leg throughly, he said that my leg had not finished healing, that it would take another year to be fully finished healing. He said the reason for my limp was not because the tendons in the back of my leg had not be stretched out and therefore shortened, which the physical therapist had been trying to stretch. He said that I had a permanent injury and the leg could not straighten because of all of the pins in the front of my leg, just below my knee. This is what I thought because when we did anything to straightened it, it did not hurt in the back but I felt pressure in the front below the knee. The other news is that it is over. We will not be going to court. We reached a settlement today. The insurance company of the man who hit us had offered their complete coverage, as so had the woman who pulled out in front of him. We had hoped to get a little more from my own company and from Edith's, but they came up a little, but not much. We really needed to settle today, because the risk we were taking in going to court, was the jury could decide that the woman who pulled out was totally responsible, in which case, the max I could get would be $100,000. One of the hold ups in the settlement was the agreement between Edith and me. We did not let her have as much as she argured for, but in order to settle today, she got more that I did. It's a nice windfall, but would I have agreed to go throught what I have in order to get it? NO! My lawyer gets 30%. Most agree to 1/3, so I got a pretty good deal with my lawyer. I'm not anxious to go to work tomorrow. One more bit of news. Earlier I bought a new car, but my lawyer would not let me take possession until after we settled. He knew that Edith wanted more than me and that it would make her less willing to settle if she knew that I had bought a new car. I bought a 2001 SLK230 hardtop convertible, It's bright yellow with black interior with 25,000 miles. It looks like new. I truly know that it's silly, but I wanted a Z3 for about 3 years. I couldn't get a Z3 because that's what Edith drives. Good Night, Margaret

Joyce, those date are fine with Gene & I as far as I know. I, I'm not sure about Gene, will probably stay in the cabin with Dad and Joan. Administrator of what, camping or the blogger?

CAMPING

Joyce - Rick and I are a go for the 15-17 of October! I'll call Ben and Hannah and ask them to respond. Let me know when to put it as a definite on my calendar! Love to all, Bertha

camping

It looks like the weekend of 10/15-17 is a mesh for all who have responded. Shall we go with it? Please don't disappoint me. You wouldn't like me when I'm disappointed.

Why are we running off the screen? I'm not reading all of the words in the blog and it's very frustrating. Does someone else want to be the administrator?

Camping

Weekends for camping that are good for my family are:

9/16-9/18, 10/01-10/03, 10/15-10/17.

Hope everyone is doing well. As for me and my family everyone is doing well. School started back today (08/05); Corey's in HIGHSCHOOL!!!! and Ashley is a SENIOR!!!! Everybody keep me in their prayers that I get through this academic year successfully.

Jeremy, Shawn keeps saying that he is going to take his boat across the river and pick you up for some fishing. Maybe if you call him, it'll get the ball started.

Camping

Most weekends in October are good with us I think, except the 2nd weekend (8th, 9th & 10) and the last weekend (29th, 30th & 31st).
We go to Massenutten October 29 - November 5.
Gene and I are also planning to go to Nags Head 9/4-9/11.

We went to Elizabeth City today and were to meet Gene's father at the house after church. When we got there his paper was still out in front of the garage, which I thought was strange. Gene went to check and his car was in the garage. I stayed in the car because I thought we would leave right away to go to lunch. Gene took the paper in and came back out. His father was not feeling well. He tried to call his doctor, no answer. So he felt that he need to go to emergency room. He had been dizzy and broke out in a sweat all over. He got to his room and used towels on his bed because he said that he was so wet that he didn't want to get his bed wet. They took blood, xrays and ekg, etc and found nothing. They thought that maybe he had vertego, but put a heart monitor on him for 24 hours. He's to go back tomorrow. Hope he's okay.

Chris' family has been to Disney World this week. They went on Wednesday and came home today and had a good time. Chris says he thought they had a better this time than the last time.

Let's make a date for camping, okay.

camping?

To Cathy and everyone else.  At this point, any weekend in October is good for me.  If we can all make a decision now, that would be great.  Love, Bertha

Jeremy and I would really like to get this camping thing coordinated.  So...Mom told me that the 3rd weekend is now out.  But if she is wrong and it's still in, we can't make it that weekend.  Jeremy and I could go the last weekend in September or the 2nd, 3rd, or 5th weekend in October.  Do any of these weekends work for anyone else?
 
To upload pictures to the blog you need to go to  http://www.hello.com/how_bloggerbot_works.php 

I can't give any better directions than that, because I didn't download the software.  You will have to download the "hello" software.  I don't know anything about it either.  I found this out by clicking on the square picture to the left of the eraser on the tool bar of the blog.

Well, the one year anniversary of the accident has come and gone. I had a very restful day. Slept late, Gene and I worked in the yard for a couple of hours. Came in and had lunch and then took a three hour nap. Gene and I had dinner and watched a cute movie he had rented, "Chasing Liberty" We enjoyed it. Talk to everyone soon.

No, Joyce, I spent a few minutes trying.  I did click the "upload image/file" button and it wanted me to download a photo program on my computer.  I already have a photo program which already uses quite a bit of memory, so I wouldn't download the program.  I tried other avenues, but failed.  When I have time, I will continue to try.  Maybe, Barry can help.  Summer is slowly slipping away!  Already beginning to plan for the new year at school.  Amber begins Thursday, August 5th.  Hooray!  She will have Anne Ziemba as her teacher, the teacher that I worked with the last 5 years at White Oak.  She will be in a multi-aged classroom.  The classroom will be for 1st and 2nd graders.  This is not just a combination class.

Farmers in Eastern NC have had a good crop but because of the extra warm May, the crops have matured earlier and there is not market for them.  The business across the street from Cherry Welding dumped 4 tractor trailer loads of watermelons in the swamp and loads of corn have been tossed after running coolers for a week with no sale!  What a waste!  I told Rick they should have at least given them away in the downtown parking lots.  I think that Rick said that a hail storm got Johnny Layton's watermelon and I know that it got Brent's tomato crop. 

Rick is now keeping up with the Layton Family more than me.  He sits with Ima Jean most Sundays at church.  I understand that Terry Ward's wife is not doing well.  I think I told you all that she's got lung cancer.   
 
Hope all is going well with the rest of ya!  Bertha
 
 

Has anyone figured out how to put pictures on the blog?

camping

Third week in September sounds good to me. Where are we going?
Love, Joyce

e

Bertha, I think the 3rd weekend in September sounds good to me or the first weekend in October. We had a good visit with Chris' family this past weekend to celebrate Cortlyn's birthday.  Howie's family was also there, not Howie, but his family.  He had too much home work to get done for the class he's now taking.  We had a little rain on Sunday, but the other days were great for the pool.  We didn't get to see too much of Chris, He had duty during the days, but got home around 5 each day.  Chris and Michelle were good enough to pick us up and drop us off at the airport in Atlanta.  I used a wheel chair at the airports, which made it easier.  I started physical therapy today or at least had my evaluation and will actually start Thursday.  I could go two or three times a week.  I told them I'd like to go only twice and work at home more.  Don't want to use us all of my annual coverage right now, just in case I need more later.  I hope they will be able to help me walk better so I won't need the crutches.  I can walk without them, but then my back hurts because of my limp.  I would sure like to feel confident to walk without them.  I am tired of THEM. I know it could be worse.  I talked to a man today, he was not hurt as bad as me, but he was hit due to road rage.  He was waiting for the police to come arrest the man, when the man drove his truck into him.  The man went to jail.  In that case, I would not mind taking his home and everything else he owned. Thanks, Bertha, for that great card. I talked to Dad tonight.  He is having that lump taken off tomorrow-that is if it still needs to be taken off.  Joan says the doctor might have trouble finding it. Talk to everyone soon.  Margaret

Camping?

Camping!  Let's go camping!  For me, the third weekend in Sept. or most any time in October is great!  How about ya'll?  Bertha

It's nice seeing that someone is blogging. I check it often, just don't take the time to leave a message. Last week was my week to see doctors. On Tuesday, Gene and I and another couple went to the movies and sat in a draft. After the movie, we went to get something to eat and before we could finish, I was miserable with an ear ache. Went home and laid on the heating pad and about an hour or so later my eardrum ruptured. I had to go see my GP on Wednesday. He put me on antibiotics (sp) and an antihistamine. Thursday was my day to go see my orthopedic surgeon and was released unless I need him and later went to my vascular surgeon and was also released by him. On Friday, I went to my eye doctor to get my annual check up. We're trying new lenses, but I don't like them as well even though he says for distance I can see better, but it doesn't seem that way to me.

Next Thursday, Gene and I fly to Macon for Cortlyn's birthday. She's having a pool party.
Howie and his family are also going, well we're not sure about Howie, depends on his school work schedule. The rest of the family are planning to go.

Bertha, glad your family had a good time even if you didn't get much rest and glad you got back home safe.

Since I can't get into any of my clothes, I have Joan's exercise bike and am using it and have already lost a few pounds. I don't want to weigh for a few days. Tonight Gene and I went out for dinner and then he went to 2 Lowes, Home Depot and we went to Target to shop for Cortlyn. On the way home, he asked if I wanted to go to Baker's Crust for a crepe, which we love and of course I couldn't say no. With the whipped cream, ice cream and chocolate sauce, who knows how many caleries there were. I either have to lose weight or buy larger clothes.