Pigeon Forge Christmas 2013

Each Christmas Chris's family tries to go to Pigeon Forge to catch a show and spend some time together.  We weren't able to the past couple of years till this year.  Christmas at the Smoky Mountain Opry.  Followed by dinner at Calhoun's.  Today we met up with Duncan (the son) for lunch along with Bryce and Amber at the Alamo-Chris's favorite in Pigeon Forge. 

Me and one of the nieces waiting on the show.

The show had everything from the Nativity to Duck Dynasty to 

lions to ice skating to big band to.....well, everything.

Chris and his sister Bridget

Nephew Colton and Nana

Me and future nephew Bryce.  Amber is hiding 

behind the menu....

Chris sis

Me and Christopher

Duncan (the son) after eating at The Alamo

Splitting up after a fun weekend.

Founder

Going to founder myself.....Fixed a second buffalo chicken casserole in a month last week.  Once for Thanksgiving at work.  Last week for our office.  Think I'll go for a third and cook one for our office in the morning.  Just need to pick up some chips!

Chris's Cooking

Chris loves to cook.  Especially things opposite my country cooking.
This is his Pork Roast and Krout.  YUM!

The Swiss Colony

Every Christmas we receive a huge Swiss Colony bounty from a good friend of ours.  It's fun watching for Mr. UPS to come up the drive and wondering if it's our gift from Rachael.  I love looking through the goodies stuck here and there.

Bon Bon's!  My favorite!

Apps

I hate using my Smartphone as an actual phone.  Too complicated.  But it's really great for texting and as a hand help computer and Kindle.  Apps.  I know what those are now.  And love them!  Especially since I found a Dollywood App and Nashville Predators App. 

The weather on my main screen is awesome too.  I've always loved watching the weather.  Maybe it was because of Margie Ison.  To me, as a kid, she was a celebrity.  Daddy worked with her husband for a brief minute at TVA.  Sooooo, I knew someone who knew someone who knew a celebrity! 

Following

For those following my breast cancer journey since 2010, hopefully my last, please last, surgery is Wednesday in Nashville.  It's a reconstruction revision to heal the horrendous mess of a reconstruction from two years ago.

The decision to go through this surgery has taken two years since the last.  A couple of weeks ago was my pre-op in Nashville.  My sister Lynette and Tanner drove me and waited patiently all day through all the appointments.  The minute we left Nashville I wanted to cancel.  Usually it's where I want to eat lunch that is the struggle.  Serious plans such as this?  Once I decide and set the plans in life I go forward.  I feel obligated to not turn back.

Since that December 2nd appointment I've been in turmoil. One half of the day I'm ready, the other half I'm ready to cancel.  This has gone on and on and on.  I believe I almost have an ulcer.  Questions about different reasons why I shouldn't have the surgery and worry have overcome me.  And I'm generally not a worrier.  I don't like to waste time on worry.  Does no good anyway.

The first reconstruction surgery was a very big one.  This one will not be.  Compare 14 hours in the operating room to 3 this time.  Big difference.  The first surgery, once decided, I was ready for.  Scared but ready and eager to get it over with.  This one?  Ready to cancel from day one from setting up the operating room date and time.

I believe part of the problem is the not wanting of implants.  The first surgery didn't require those and therefore of no thought or concern.  This one will require them.  Part of the problem, and I believe the biggest, is fear of having large breasts.  This terrifies me.  I was a full C before cancer.  I do not want to be that again.  I love winter because I'm a turtleneck kinda girl.  I hate cleavage.   I'm unlike any patient the doctor has ever worked with-I almost guarantee it.  Even breast cancer reconstruction patients.

The surgery isn't in order to look better in clothes or for people.  My sister is trying to keep me positive about the upcoming surgery and said "think how much fun you'll have buying new clothes!".  I think she forgets I hate shopping and I'm modest.  But she says I might find I like new types of clothes, like v necks, and enjoy shopping.  Maybe she is right.  We'll see....

I called the doctor's office Friday about my fears and sent an email.  The research assistant called me and told me she had spoken with Dr. Maxwell and he wants to see me for one last consult on Tuesday before Wednesday.  When she call I instantly knew I wouldn't cancel.  I'll live through the breast and stomach drains.  And the pain.  I feel that he will take my needs and desires about size and reasons for the surgery into consideration. (I always thought he would but now feel absolutely sure of.)

Chris and I are going to the Nashville Predators game Tuesday night.  Hoping for a nice distraction from the last journey ahead.  And that the good mood I'm in from actually getting to go to a hockey game will keep me from backing out of the surgery on Wednesday.  Predators!  You better win so I'm in that good mood!!!

I'll report back throughout the week.  Mostly on the hockey game I'm sure.  Pray for me and my family.  Pray for strength and peace and that we'll not have the problems of two years ago.  Pray for the surgeons hands and healing of my body.  Pray for blessings to my family and friends for all they have endured with patience and love and time spent on my care for three years.  And pray I'll be able to find some sort of and be able to stomach massive doses of protein-which helps wounds heal.

RAM!!!!!

My friend Patty, among other friends, have worked tirelessly for many, many months to bring Remote Area Medical (RAM) to Monroe County, TN January 18-19, 2014 at Sequoyah High School. 

This is a FREE clinic which will provide:

• DENTAL: cleanings, fillings, extractions
• VISION: eye exams, FREE eyeglasses-as time and supplies permit
• MEDICAL: flu shots, primary exams, consults, behavioral health
• WOMEN'S HEALTH: mammograms (dear to me), pap smears

No appointments.  No eligibility requirements.  First come, first served.  Doors open at 6:00 am.  The doors MUST CLOSE when capacity is reached for the day.  Please arrive early (prepared for the weather) and bring a snack.

All services are FREE & provided by volunteer Health Care Professionals!

PLEASE REMEMBER:  THIS CLINIC IS INTENDED FOR PEOPLE WHO ARE UNINSURED, UNDERINSURED, UNEMPLOYED, AND CANNOT AFFORD TO PAY FOR SERVICES.

To learn about RAM please visit www.ramusa.org

 

 

Rhonda (Bright) McDaniel

Chris and I went to Madisonville High School with Rhonda.  I didn't know Rhonda as well as Chris did.  Mostly I remember she was a beautiful, full of life girl who seemed feisty and fun!  It was shocking when Rhonda was diagnosed with colon cancer several years ago.  She was so young at the time.  After a long, hard fight she won the first round. 

Rhonda had some good cancer-free years afterward but sadly the disease came back with a vengeance.  Rhonda is home with her sister Sheila, who, along with Hospice care for her. 

Rhonda is bedridden, paralyzed from the waist down, on the strongest of pain medication and very weak.  Although she is tough as nails and has the strongest will to live most have ever seen, she was given only two months to live.  Being on disability has helped Rhonda with medical bills and expenses but she has no life insurance.  The funeral home where arrangements have already been made was generous with the planning.  However, the bill is still $5,000 requiring a $3,000 down payment.


Can you imagine the stress of knowing your death is imminent, you have four children aged 17, 15, 8, and 6 which you are saying good bye too and leaving behind all the while trying to explain life and death to them and dealing with the same issues for yourself, AND trying to find a way to pay to bury yourself????  I cannot imagine, no.  I believe it would be hard enough not to be preoccupied with worry about my children's economic future and care.  But then add the pain and fear Rhonda must be experiencing along with trying not to be a financial burden at the end of her life.

Several people have come up with ways the community can contribute and help get burial expenses taken care of.  Donations can be made at Mason's Furniture in Madisonville (423-442-2940). December 20th on the Epray Online Auction which can be found on Facebook by searching EPray Online Auction for Rhonda Bright McDaniel.  All proceeds will go to Serenity Funeral Home in Etowah, TN.  Or you may contact the funeral home directly concerning donations for funeral expenses at 423-263-6700.

A benefit BBQ dinner and bake sale was held at Donna's Old Town Café in Madisonville on December 10th and cleared $1,837.51!!

Loving friends who worked hard at the BBQ benefit

at Donna's Old Town Café.  LeAnne McDaniel not in photo.

Please remember Rhonda and her family in your prayers.  And please do not forget to continue to pray for her four children and their caretakers in the years to come.  Those will not be easy years.

Chris and I at the BBQ benefit.

*Thank you Karen for the information and writing in the blog post!

Merry Scrooge'mis

Why does the Merry in Christmas seem to bring out the Scrooge in everyone these days?  Next time I'm shopping I vow to let a car in front of me when either coming or going from parking.  Also, if I see a parking space near the mall I'll not take that one but drive to the back of the lot.  I need the exercise anyway.  Shucks I might even let someone checking out behind me in front of me.  Why am I in such a hurry for?  I personally love the hustle and bustle of Christmas time.  I need to slow down to enjoy it. 

My Christmas tree in my office.

Ideas for Candy Crush

Gift certificates as stocking stuffers for Christmas and a children's version.

State of Play

Wow. Wow. Wow........  I DVR'd "State of Play" on HBO and am sick. I'm not sure I can watch it all.  Not only sick I'm also angry.  I'm so angry because the few parents who are like these can make all the others look bad for enjoying their kids and watching and helping and encouraging and pushing them play sports.  And I love sports!  Video games?  Sports?  I pick sports.  Though I was never good at them....and well, not very good at video games either to tell the truth.

Man.  Poor Justus.  He is so timid and I see why.  I know nothing about kids and raising them but I've seen a lot of abuse in social work.  And this is it.  Justus doesn't seem to be the greatest at pushing or asserting himself while playing football.  But maybe subconsciously he is afraid to.  Maybe he can't and it's not a lack of effort but rather a fear of failure.  And what comes after failure.  Failure to succeed at his father's desire to re-live life through him seems to threaten his very safety.

Siblings.  The parent of the little girl golfer has a little sister and it isn't showing her play golf or anything except sit in the shade of the umbrella of the golf cart.  (That has to be boring.)  Justus's dad tells him he has other brothers and sisters which can be sent to private school and money invested into if Justus doesn't want the life of football.

Seems families like these only have one child they concentrate on to push to succeed at a sport.  Spend all their money on.  Maybe they believe one is better.  Maybe they do see real talent over the others.  The one kid who competes is affected for life in many ways which cannot be positive.  But there has to be affects on the others as well.  Feelings perhaps of not being good enough for mom or dad to give attention.  Or jealous of the time and attention their sibling receive from their parents or even jealous of the accolades of peers and the public.  And perhaps pity.  Pity for their brother or sister and what they are enduring.  Lack of power because all they can do is sit in the shade and not help end the craziness.  Shame at having to sit in the bleachers and have all the other parents, the sane ones, stare and roll their eyes at their over-involved mom or dad.

The crazy tennis mom affected me the most by sooooo seriously hiding behind God and religion to justify the emotional abuse and life long damage she is inflicting upon her two boys and their faith.  The reason she bothers me?  Because I know God and I worry that those two boys will never want to know Him or blame God for their nutzo mother or not even believe because if there is a God where was He during all the practices and matches?

But then I remember watching Justus a minute ago and crying with him....maybe he has affected me most.......

And I'm not even going to try to write anything about the father in the stands of his son's basketball games......

Abuse...where is the other parent???  The videos I'm watching?  Surely a judge would put an end to the craziness at a video showing the life of these kids if it was brought before him...

Personally I believe it's quite okay to encourage and even push kids to succeed at a sport or hobby and do their best.  Find their best.  Be their best.  I would venture to say that most kids in sports want that for themselves, they have a drive and their parents are just along for the ride.  But there is a point for a few when lines are crossed.  This documentary just showed it.



Hmmmm....it's now the end of the show and I guess I didn't see the full version.  The commentator just said watch the full length film "Trophy Kids".  Not sure I want too.

All this type of stuff can and does happen in other activities involving kids other than sports....academics, music, religion, etc

Pain of Nine!

Riding horses and working around farm all day wears Chris's back out. Tonight he told me to press on his shoulders as he laid on the floor.  My wrist is still tender from where I fell last week so I was pressing with my elbows. 

After a couple of minutes Chris said "okay that's enough".  

I kept rubbing and he started trying to get up while saying " okay that's enough. Pain of 9. Pain of 9!"

Grin....

Tickets

What a night trying to get going to the Knoxville Ice Bears game.  For the first time we have season tickets.  And for the second time we forgot our tickets at home.

The first time we forgot them we didn't remember until an hour up the road and only ten minutes from the coliseum.   Luckily they printed Chris and I a game night ticket.

Tonight we were only four miles down from the house almost onto highway 68 when Chris asked "did you get our tickets?"  I immediately turned around and headed home.

As Chris was getting out of the car to run in the house I told him to grab my green gloves and turn out the Christmas lights I had accidentally left on.  

Chris came out and at the end of our road getting onto Old Athens Rd I said "did you get the tickets?".....

Chris emerged from the house the  second time with the ticket books. The whole two booklets of tickets!   They are now in my glove box beside Chris' s Tide To Go pen.  And there they shall live.

The Working Man's Lunch

Moonpies and RC Cola. During the Great Depression this was "The Working Man's Lunch".

I had a lot of those lunches growing up.  Even though there are no RC's around you sure can find Moonpies.   The best are the fresh from Chattanooga.

I was pretty excited when the cheerleader (who has no business at a hockey game) at the Knoxville Ice Bears game suddenly appeared next to me at our seats.  Seems our section won Moonpies because a lady answered a trivia question correctly.

Thank you for your delivered surprise cheerleader.  But a Moonpie doesn't change my opinion of you at hockey games.  Now maybe if you'd had an RC Cola to go with that Moonpie...... No.... Not really.

Elf, Jack and Selfies

Fairly certain that my great nephew Jack feels the same as I do about the Elf in the Shelf.

Must run in the family.

"Selfies" 

Jack is definitely a kid of "today". 

"me take, me take, me take"

Or was it "I".....

Jack wanted to take one of mummy. 

Madisonville Intermediate School - Government Day

Every year Madisonville Intermediate School hosts a luncheon for Government leaders/officials.  

It's always a great time of fellowship talking with others.  

Mille Estes, Register of Deeds, and I.

Millie is my "next door" office holder.  She has

been quite the mentor.

Kim and I were friends in high school.  Kim

does an excellent job organizing the luncheon.

Monroe County Mayor Tim Yates, 

TN State Representative Jimmy Matlock, 

myself and Sheriff Bill Bivens

James Brown

Director Monroe County Elections

TN State Representative Jimmy Matlock

Former long time Director of Schools and presently 

School Board Chair Bob Lovingood.  I grew up in Hopewell/Corntassel

with the Lovingood family.  

"Gudger" Bill Bivens, Monroe County Commissioner

and Madisonville Police.  We share "Gudger".

Sessions Court Judge Reed Dixon

Judy Lee, Monroe County Commissioner

Judy's daughter, Sharon, is a TN Supreme Court Justice 

Lisa Samples, Monroe County Economic Development

Monroe County Mayor Tim Yates. Tim's family has some of the 

sweetest, most talented voices in the county.  My nephew is married

into the family and his wife inherited an amazing voice.

Randy White, Monroe County EMS Director

I've worked with Randy's wife Millicent when I was a social 

worker.  Millicent works tirelessly at the Department of 

Children's Services. 

Monroe County Sheriff Bill Bivens

Janie Harrill, retired Monroe County school teacher 

and chair of Monroe County Republican Party

Hard working school board members!

Mike Lowry, Monroe County Director of Schools

Shan Harris

Director Monroe CountyEconomic Development 

Li 

Monroe County Finance Director

One thing Pinterest

Pinterest.  I have so much fun pinning away.  I rarely pin food and recipes because deep down I know I'll never try and cook them.  I do pin lots of ideas for home and clothing pins.

I've tried only two.  The first was taking shower curtain hooks, putting around a clothes hanger and tying your scarves to the hooks.  Does not work!  What a mess.  The hooks slide up and down everywhere and make your clothes hanger fall all sorts of ways.  Right quick like I took the hooks off and went back to the way that worked-just tying the scarves around the bottom of a hanger.

The second thing I've tried - I love!  Get you a few swimming pool noodles.  Cut into pieces and insert into your boots when you are not wearing.  Holds boots upright and prevents the ankle area from falling over and breaking down.  You've got to try it!

Boots. You can't see the noodles. 

They are stuffed down to the sole of the

 boot as they should be.

What the noodles look like

What the noodles look like stuffed down to 

the sole of the boot.