Conner's Grandma

Wow long time for no post

2011-09-22T16:42:00.000-07:00

It has been a very eventful summer filled with good and bad. First I believe it was the hottest summer I have seen since the summer we built the addition onto our home which was about 1990. Jack and I can no longer take this heat like we used to. I am enjoying the Fall weather and getting a lot done. Today I made 10 quarts of applesauce. Jack and I just enjoyed a bowl of vanilla ice cream with hot applesauce. mmmmm well worth all the peeling. I actually sat in my rocking chair on the porch and pealed the apples given to me by my friends Kathy and Gary.
We were able to spend a lot of time with Conner this summer. He and Gramma and Mommy went to Alex Bay and went out to Boldt Castle. No I had not been there before. Looking at it through his eyes to made it all the more special. But his favorite part of the trip was the arcade and go carts. Michelle took him in one and they had a steering wheel for him so he thought he helped drive !! He is such a joy and blessing in all our lives I thank God every day for him.

Easter is here again

2011-04-22T17:49:00.000-07:00

Conner coloring Eggs 3 weeks early

Conner and Mommy coloring eggs

Easter will be celebrated a day early as Conner has to go home Saturday night. Grandpa is just ready to go the store at 9pm on Friday night.....maybe a few things left although the child has everything !!! My kids 22, 25, 31 asked what they were getting for Easter ? I told them they were doing the cooking and getting nothing for doing it. To my surprise they agreed. YEAH a bbq and I get to sit and get served.

" Debbi's Memories"

2011-04-07T15:40:00.000-07:00

My business "Debbi's Memories" was started in 2007. At first we concentrated on my son Jack's photos and made greeting cards and sold them at craft fairs and to friends. We still have a lot of cards and are going to be marketing them more now. For two of years I worked on one project doing a complete family history for a special friend of mine. I was rewarded last year with an unbelievable trip to the beautiful country of Wales and England. I find myself open now for expanding and doing more Family History Research for people. The St Lawrence Historical Society has been good to send people my way. I will either do your Family History for you or teach you how to start your own. I will do large or small look ups for people. Wills, Census, Naturalization's, etc. I love doing genealogy and have been doing it for 26 years. So send me on searches for you and I will do my best. Also I will scan pictures for you and either give them to you on a disk or create a book for you from them. Debbi

I have been blessed

2010-10-26T08:29:00.000-07:00

When God brought this sweet little soul into my life I had no idea what I was in for. The love, the sweetness, the work, the pain, the rewards, the art projects, the missing (feeling) I get when I am away form him for long periods of time.Looking into those baby eyes as I rocked him to sleep or the face he would make when he was first eating foods, and discovering new taste Playing peek a boo for the first time or for asking "Where is Conner for the millionth time when you had helped him cover up to hide from you. That sweet soft warm face when he would fall asleep on me and I knew that there was work to be done and just not caring if it got done because this was so much better.Pushing you endlessly on the swing and you saying under doggy Grandma until I could not push anymore. Watching Grandpa smile every time he looked at you. It was love at first sight for all of us. Laying next to your Mommy when they took you away to a far away hospital, watching her cry as she wanted her baby so bad, watching her blood pressure go up to dangerous heights. Driving the 90 miles to see you for the first 2 years you were here. leaving for home late at night because I could not get enough of you. That first day of kindergarten when he got out of the car and ran right for me! OK well I guess I have painted the picture. Here he is my adorable grandson Conner William Seymour. I have been blessed. Thank you God

Newspaper clippings

2010-09-24T11:22:00.000-07:00

NEWSPAPER CLIPPING FROM 1928

THESE ARE MY GREAT GREAT GRANDPARENTS

THEIR PICTURE IS IN THE PREVIOUS POSTING INT HE HORSE AND BUGGY

West Pierrepont 1928

On September 18, 1878, at Potsdam occurred the marriage of Miss Nettie E. Coon to Adelbert O. Fulton both of Pierrepont, where they have spent their whole married life, now operating their farm assisted by their son, Roy. They have 4 sons and 3 daughters, Adelbert Fulton of Cranberry Lake, Mrs. Cecile Buell of Newton Falls, Robert of Buffalo, Mrs. Lula Caswell, Roy, Inez, and Theodore of Pierrepont. September 18^th being their golden wedding day, proved to be quite an eventful one in the family as their son Robert was united in marriage to Miss Lillian Voekler at Alden New York near Buffalo. As Mrs. Fulton was busy with her daily work several of the relative came in a group to remind them of their fiftieth anniversary. They all carried well filled baskets and soon a sumptuous repast was spread, where all did ample justice. A reception for the new bride and groom was being planned by Mr. & Mrs. Fulton at their home on September 20^th, their children were s also making plans for a Golden Wedding. It came as a complete surprise. The house was very prettily trimmed part in Gold and part in pink and white. A mock wedding was solemnized when Mr. & Mrs. A O Fulton were remarried. Mr. & Mrs. William Brewer acting as best man and bridesmaid. The song “ Put on Your Old Gray Bonnet” was rendered. A recitation by Fulton Caswell was found very enjoyable. They were presented with many pretty gifts, gold pieces and bills. Mr. and Mrs. Robert Fulton were the recipients of many costly and useful gifts, including silverware, Pyrex, linen and furniture. Ice cream and cake were served. All left wishing both couples many returns for the day. Mr. and Mrs. Robert Fulton will be at home Oct 1 at 626 Wyoming St Buffalo.

Words to “Put on your old Gray Bonnet”

On the farmhouse veranda,

There sat Silas and Miranda,

Thinking of the days gone by.

Said he "Dearie, don't be weary,

You were always bright and cheery,

But a tear, dear, dims your eye.

Said she "They're tears of gladness,

Silas, they're not tears of sadness,

It is fifty years today since we were wed.

Then the old man's dim eyes brightened,

And his stern old hear, it lightened,

As he turned to her and said:

Chorus:

Put on your old grey bonnet

With the blue ribbon on it,

While I hitch old Dobbin to the shay,

And through the fields of clover,

We'll drive to Dover,

On our golden wedding day.

I was in the same old bonnet,

With the same blue ribbon on it,

In the old shay, by his side,

That he drove her up to Dover,

Through the same old fields of clover

To become his happy bride.

The birds were sweetly singing

And the same old bells were ringing,

As they passed the quaint old church where they wed,

And that night when the stars were gleaming,

The old couple lay a-dreaming,

Dreaming of the words he said:

Chorus:

Put on your old grey bonnet

With the blue ribbon on it,

While I hitch old Dobbin to the shay,

And through the fields of clover,

We'll drive to Dover,

On our golden wedding day.

Some Real old Caswell- Fulton some newer

2010-07-23T18:37:00.001-07:00

Adelbert Orlando Fulton and his wife Nettie Elnora Coon Fulton

"smiling was not stylish in a photograph then".

Check out the bonnet though !!

Elnora Marion Caswell Rood

daughter of Nelson Milo & Lula Maude Fulton Caswell

Lula Maude Fulton Caswell-child- Nelson Milo Caswell
and many fish

dinner must have been good that night

Lula Maude Fulton Caswell

"well that is all for today"

~Remember Families are Forever~

More Old Caswell Photo's

2010-07-19T16:29:00.000-07:00

"Families Are Forever"

Nelson Milo & Lula Maude Fulton Caswell Family

Front~ L-R Cecil Harriet Caswell White, Lula Maude Fulton Caswell,

Elnora Marion Caswell Rood,

Middle ~Leda May Caswell Baumgartener, Andrew Alson Caswell,

Wava Lena Caswell Coller

Back ~Fulton Norman Caswell, Irene Arvilla Caswell Coughlin,

Claude Winnett Caswell

My Grandfather Claude's family

George Lyon & Irene Arvilla Caswell Coughlin

My Great Aunt & Uncle

Cecil Harriet Caswell White
My Great Aunt

Nelson Milo & Lula Maude Fulton Caswell

my Great Grandparents

Old Family Photos

2010-07-12T18:25:00.000-07:00

Caswell Family Pictures Addition #1 I have to start somewhere !!!

Might as well start with 4 generations

Top Lula Maude Fulton Caswell from Left to right Nettie Elnora Coon Fulton, Leda May Caswell Baumgartner , Mario Relief Northrup Coon
Deborah Marie Pharoah Vaisey (me) with cousin Angela Marie Jones Thompson in North Tonawanda new York where we were both born.

Another 4 generation
Standing Irene Arvilla Caswell Coughlin
L-R
Lula Maude Fulton Caswell, Nettie Elnora Coon Fulton
Naomi Irene Coughlin Haven, Rogene Joann Coughlin Bessett

3 generations
L-R
William Conway Pharoah, Lula Maude Fulton Caswell,
Alice Marie Caswell Pharoah, Claude Winnet Caswell,
Frieda Belle Jaycox Caswell
That's my Grandma, can I tell you how much I loved that woman !!!

William Conway Pharoah & Claude Winnet Caswell
was Grandpa trying to tell my father something !! I am sure this was taken before my parents marriage.
Hey this is fun wait for the next installment.
Debbi aka Deborah Marie Pharoah Vaisey

Conner & Slip and Slide

2010-07-03T11:44:00.000-07:00

Here is to the best $5.00 ever spent. I don't care if it only works once, he had a ball. Unkie Junkie joined Conner on this slip and slide. If truth be told I would have loved to also. Yes I do water park rides !!! Scary as that thought might be I told Jack I have to each year to make sure I am still alive ! Oh my what a rush, which is so odd for me because I can't even get near carnival rides with out wanting to vomit... The water coming out of that hose was cold too !!!
How much I love this child I can't say. Well yes I can !!

Can't get back and forth quick enough !!!

Go Conner Go

Trefor (trevor) Cottage on the Irish Sea

2010-06-23T18:03:00.000-07:00

Trefor is on the Irish Sea in North West Wales. It was once a very busy harbour,as right behind it are huge mountains where marble was mined. I am sure things other than marble but that is the one I have read the most about !

Nan and I had the privilege of staying here for 18 days. This cottage belongs to Nan's cousin Gavin and his wife Ellen (and yes it is for rent). This beautiful spot is so tranquil and quiet. Nan and I were constantly saying to each other come look out the window !!! In this picture below this tractor left the boat owners right there !!! They tried to push and had as many as 4 men at one time at the back of the boat trying to push. We were snickering in the window as we could see they were not even budging this huge boat. After a good while they gave up and just disappeared. I thought we would see the tractor return soon. But, they knew more than we did and a very high tide came in that night and that boat was floating in the morning. The laugh was on us !!

Below is the front of the cottage. There are 6 connected cottages. Some are rentals and other people live in year around. Sitting out on this front patio was so wonderful. it was cool while we were there, but I kept sitting out there knowing that it was my chance of a life time to sit by the Irish Sea. The air was crisp and clear. It was sitting here that I heard of my mother in laws passing and somehow that beautiful sky above me gave me peace. The stars were shinning and although I was very sad I knew God was right there and he had taken her home. She had left me a message telling me to stay in Wales and not come back. I was blessed to have her as my mother in law for over 25 years and I know I will see her again and maybe we can marvel over the Irish Sea together.

Night time at Trefor was always beautiful and this picture can tell you why I took so many pictures.

This view of the coastline was taken standing on the patio in front of the cottage. Every vantage point was stunning.

This picture was taken on the Pier at Trefor. I remember what a peaceful walk I had that day. Taking in the breathtaking world around me and just being happy I was a live and how very lucky and fortunate I was to be there. Yes I did pinch myself a few times. Mostly though I looked to the heavens and said thank you God. I also thanked Nan and Arlie for giving me this wonderful chance to see this part of the world doing what I love the most "Family History". There is nothing like seeing someone see there unknown family for the first time. Watching them hold their Great Great grandparents original marriage certificate in their hands. Touching documents from the 1600's.Seeing places that your ancestors lived, worked, and died. And I believe in the process learning a lot about ourselves and how we become the people we are.

This is the old Pier at Trefor it is made of wood and is scheduled to be torn down. There are huge gates that forbid you to go out on it but everyday there were people out there fishing and sometimes camping on the wooden part. One night someone even built a campfire on the wood. The next morning we were told the police had been called 2 times that night !!! You literally had to swing out over the sea to get on there as the fence had spikes on top. Oh no I did not go out there.

This photo is taken to the left of Trefor Pier. Again another beautiful view.

Just call me and this could be your beautiful vacation spot !!!!!!!!

I just wish I were a poet and could put into better words the beauty of this place and my fantastic time there.

Beddgelert Wales "Little Switzerland

2010-06-14T07:46:00.000-07:00

Chapel sitting right on the Little River

Sign Built right into the bridge

Beautiful little Antique Shop we had tea in

Gorgeous Bridge below

Me on the Bridge over the RiverThis day was very magical to me. I had never in my life been in a place so far of the beaten path. Beddgelert was this breathtaking. There were many hikers and they were not young people. Many of the hikers were 50 -80 year olds with there walking sticks all in hiking garb. We in America could take a lesson on enjoying the beauty God has given us right in our backyards. If I lived in Wales I would probably never have to leave a 50 mile radius without something magical to see for the next 50 years. I know that I will return to this beautiful country.

Home from Wales

2010-05-23T16:59:00.000-07:00

I have been home from Wales for less than a week and I am ready to take Jack there to see all that I was able to see. I am waiting for family to sit with me and view all 2500 + pictures. I will never be able to put into words the beauty of this incredible country.
I have missed Conner and have not seen him yet, I will wake up tomorrow and drive to Malone if I have to.

Nan's Wales Pictures and places

2010-05-05T02:39:00.000-07:00

Gavin & Ellen next to their slate business

Tan y Coed where my Granfather James L Jones was born and lived

Farm where my great grandparents lived and my taid was born in Penygroes, Wales

Halloween Parade

2009-10-27T07:51:00.001-07:00

Conner at Pre School
Out for a ride in the Parade

Keep that horse going

Very tired horse and Rider

OK you all know I can't get enough of this beautiful little guy. Aunt Brandi went to Pre school yesterday to spend the day with Conner. Woody from Toy Story is who he is. Grandpa went and bought him the horse to finish off the costume and when they got home Conner grabbed at the horses ear and sure enough it neighs. They did not know that in the store so bonus !!!

I will have to go through my picture as I remember all my kids doing this parade when they were in school.

Grandpa and Conner fishing

2009-10-12T13:23:00.000-07:00

Make sure the cooler is full of drinks fish poles in hand
Grandpa's big catch

Right in the Raquette

He's a mighty big un

Conner and Grandpa would spend every day fishing if there was no work to do. They went fishing up at McNeil's point in Papa's pontoon boat and Conner went to cast and his pole hit the side of the boat and down in the water it went !!! On the way home we stopped and bought a floating fishing pole. He has no idea that grandpa cut the barbs off his lure !!!

I really think he just likes to cast anyway as he does it over and over again..even in the front yard.

Conner's first day of Pre K

2009-10-12T13:12:00.001-07:00

At the babysitters
Sitting in the front seat

Aunt Brandi and Conner waiting for the bus

Arriving at school

Conner's first day of Pre K was very eventful !! Austin had to work so Jack and I were to meet him at the babysitters in Malone at 7am to get on the bus...Well Grandma did her flying leap the night before and broke her knee cap so Grandpa had to stay home with her. Coming to the rescue were Aunt Brandi and Unkie Jack !!!! Up at that hour !!!! they arrived at the babysitters and waited and waited...no bus. The babysitter called the school and they sent a bus just for him. Brandi and Jack followed him to school and Jacky dove out of the truck quickly to take the picture of Conner getting off....Aunt Brandi and Unkie Jack stayed and played for a while and the rest is history Conner loves school.

Sunflowers

2009-10-12T12:56:00.001-07:00

Conner's playhouse

Unkie Jack and Conner

Full grown at last
Trying to catch up on this blog I have been so bad.Conner and I planted Sunflower seeds then transplanted them next to his play house. He watered them every time he came over.We planted them late in the season so they did not get as big as hoped but he was sure thrilled and that is all that matters.

I was worried when the squirrels and birds started eating them. I thought for sure the tears would come. No way he thought it was great we were feeding them !!!

Grandpa and Conner are now getting all their bird houses repainted and rehung for their birds. I love this time of year. I call it nesting time....Sounds better than sleep longer and enjoy the fireplace..Projects that I have procrastinated finally get done. It is really a productive time. A large Turkey was cooked on Saturday and we will have the end tonight. Turkey Salad !!!

Conners new swings

2009-05-19T12:12:00.000-07:00

Thoughts

2009-05-12T14:26:00.000-07:00

Just sitting here rummaging through this mind of mine. Realizing how very blessed I am. Looking through old photos earlier and wishing I could jump back in time and relive some of the good ones.
Watching my kids play piano
Magical Christmas's with Jack's music
Watching Michelle and Austin get married
Holding Conner for the first time
Spending time with my parents and Jack's
The cottage
Learning to water ski
Not learning how to downhill ski !!
Spending time on the boat on Lake Ontario
Staying in the boat at Kingston Ontario
Renting the car that sped through Kingston
The bagpipes at Brockville Marina at 1 am
Family both mine and Jacks
Thinking sometimes life could not get any harder
and then realizing it could
Then giving it to God to take care of
Forgiving
Loving
Laughing until it hurts
Letting my kids have wings
Helping Jack to get ready for his prom in Florida
Homeschooling
Singing, Dancing and loving life

Have I told anyone lately how much I love my Grandson

2009-04-14T12:36:00.000-07:00

It's Super Conner

Yes I love this little one so much. He stayed over night on Sunday night after Easter. He woke Grandpa up at 6am on Monday.Of course Jack would do anything Conner wanted him to. he is really easy to keep happy though and can get so serious at times. I would love to get inside that little mind and find out just what he is thinking ??? He loves having his Unky Jack here when he comes and was quite upset that Unky Jack went back to his apartment Sunday night.

Grandmas special thing is Pez and those darn little dispensers which Mommy and Daddy would rather he not eat. But what are Grandmas for.I found a batman set for Easter and waited until he was quite and asked him what he thought I brought for him. He screamed PEZ !!! I was the hero for 20 seconds then back to just that old Grandma who comes around wanting to kiss me all the time.

Albany "Special Olympics Basketball" Jacky

2009-04-05T07:01:00.000-07:00

Jacky and his friends Mark and Trudy

Jacky doing the pose small fellow 6'2"

The offical Team photo "The Shamrocks"

The weekend of March 28th off we went to Albany NY for a basketball tournament. I had never been to Albany before, and was excited for the trip. Jack's back was not well nor his knee so I did the driving. Down through Tupper Lake to Long Lake and Blue Mountain Lake to Indian Lake and them finally the curves stopped and we were on the Northway "87". To say it was a beautiful ride is an understatement. At this time of year you can see all the beautiful things you miss when all the foliage is out. Lakes and cottages and beautiful mountains. The Adirondacks are truly beautiful.

I packed a cooler and we ate sandwiches on the tailgate of the truck. Brandi thought this was terrible, but it brought me back to when I was younger and this was a common practice for our family. My Mom would always pack lunches and we would go on rides. We never knew where we would end up !! These are some of the fondest memories of my life as a child. We did this in the car and sometimes on snowmobiles. So cold needn't bother you. I had an incredible childhood. I still take rides when the world seems to be resting on my shoulders..It makes the world better. I have passed this love on to only one of my children "Jacky" he has been after me to go now that most of the snow has passed !!!

On to the tournament. Great games where played by all and Jacky got a couple 3 pointers. YEAH Jacky!! These games are always so much fun.. These special individuals bless my life in more ways that I can say. Thank you to them and all who work to make these possible.

A couple of Jacky's pictures

2009-02-27T14:12:00.000-08:00

Jacky has all these beautiful pictures on my computer and I thought I would share them. He took these last year.

Everything is melting with 50 degree temperatures. Tomorrow 17 degrees. Winter at this stage is ........... you know !!!! I am ready for the sun to shine.

Life at the Vaisey Post

2009-02-07T07:18:00.000-08:00

Where oh where do I start. Oh anywhere I guess. Jacky is back at his apartment and doing well, I am suppose to go visit him today (Clean, do laundry) Yeah that kind of visit. Oh yes and please leave money or take me out to eat !!! Really I can't wait to see him.
Brandi is trying as hard as possible to be a trooper. That back brace is something out of Star Wars !! She looks like if she was given a mask her role would start. Although for the first time yesterday she said the pain in her back was tolerable. She goes for an MRI on Tuesday to see if there is any disk injuries. Like breaking your back, tearing your ACL and meniscus is not enough. Oh well I know the Lord guided me to be a nurse for a reason (MY CHILDREN)
Jack has had a rough week and has been in bad for days.This weather is a killer on his back and I know he wished he were back in Florida.
Conner and Michelle should be here tomorrow so that should lighten our day. Yes Conner brings the sunshine with him (at least that's what my heart says every time I lay eyes on him.) It is so amazing what grandchildren do for you. I lay sometimes and watch him and think partially because of me this little angel is here. God is good !!!

Baseline Golf Course Ocala Florida

2009-01-29T11:24:00.000-08:00

Baseline River Bridge

Yes this is also on the Golf Course

Dad and Jack

The beautiful waterfall on the golf course

Jack on our friends golf course in Ocala

Any of you that know Jack well, know that his dreams of retirement included playing golf everyday. Unfortunately that is not to be. He would take one swing and probably never move again:( Poor Jack. I had been trying to get him to visit our friends Nan and Arlie Parker every year in Florida. But he is such a private being that it was hard. We finally talked him into going and he loved every minute of it. Arlie took him on a great tour of the course and his nursery. Words can not explain just how beautiful it is. No I can't play golf I have tried many times over the years but to no avail. I even thought in college I would take the easy Physical Ed class and take GOLF. Boy was I wrong, I still can't remember if I passed.. but I sure did try. I play golf like baseball should be played !!!

We enjoyed a great day with Nan, Arlie, their son AJ and his adorable son little Arlie. It ended with a late night diner at Arlie's favorite steakhouse. What a meal.... They are incredible host and I love them so much.

Of course shopping (SCRAPBOOK) that is was fun that day. I found a lot of things for Jack's 1969 Dodge Dart Swinger Scrapbook. An Incredible store called Griffins in Ocala, and yes they are on line. They are a Mom and Pop type store with everything a crafter could want or desire. Lets just say I shipped home 50 lbs...USPS.

Thanks to the Parker's Mom and Dad and Jack and I had a wonderful day. Jack and I snuck back to Ocala a few days later when we rented a car. OK I will let you in on that days excitement. I love a good laugh even if it is on me. Jack rented a 2008 Cadillac and wanted to see what it would do!!!! Just as he took of I put a Coke to my mouth and instead it went up my nose down my clothes and yes I snorted COKE !! I had a white tee on and lets say it was done. Off to Target we went. Jack dropped me off in front of the store I do believe he feared for his life. In Target I went with coke all over. trying to find the PLUS sizes is another great story !!! They had 2 racks of PLUS clothes. Is no one overweight in Florida !!! Finally I found another Tee and went to the check out. The cashier looked at me then the Tee and started laughing. As most of you know I laughter right along with her !!! off to the stores restroom I went to remove the coke the coke covered shirt and then headed out the door.Jack was attentively waiting to pick me up. As I got in the car he said and I quote "I like that shirt better" !!! We both got a good laugh.

Then of course I got treated to a nice steak again !!! Wow spill more coke get steak, that gives me and idea !!!!!!!!!

Florida was Great

2009-01-25T12:44:00.000-08:00

Here is a picture of the Happy Couple on their first ever vacation with no children ever !!!! Tomorrow we celebrate 24 years of marriage. We both feel very fortunate to have found each other and tolerated each others good and bad qualities. I really believe that is what marriage is about. Also the fact that I love this man with all my heart and soul.
We did not have a tropical vacation as Florida was experiencing it's winter. 22 above is much better to wake to than -22. days were high 50's and 60's which Jack and I love. Any time I can spend with my parents is always great to me. They are very active and kept us busy doing our favorite things Thrift stores, Scrapbook stores, Harbor Freight (yes Jack was in Heaven) and just riding.
We actually mailed home 55 pounds of books. When they are 25 cents to $2 I buy a lot and it keeps me in reading for a year or more. We also bought 2 suitcases at thrift stores and filled them full of goodies. Everything from a $4 tripod for Jacky to a Eeyore charm for Michelle to Brandi's tee shirt that says "Aunt" on it. Shells and Tees for Conner. Oh ands Conner got about 75 books for 29 cents each.
We have so many good friends in Florida that it feels like and extended family reunion. Mary and Glen,George and Nancy,Harlow and Joyce,Aunt Ruth,Bucky and Bea... We would love to get a place down there and did look at a few places but this is not the year for us. There are 4600 places for sale in Citrus County alone and we know given another year the prices will fall even more.
Brandi had a bad fall 2 days after we left down 2 flights over outside snowy cement steps and tore her ACL and Meniscus. She is in physical therapy 3 times a week and we are hoping she will heal without surgery.
I have so many great pictures that I will share soon......

"Wake up Grandma"

2009-01-04T07:37:00.000-08:00

I woke up this morning with this adorable little guy dive bombing me saying wake up Grandma. Please hide under the pillow with me. "I can see you" giggle giggle !! Over and over again. Jack finally said Conner you are going to hurt Grandma. But Grandma loves hearing that giggle. Plus the fact that we are leaving for Florida in 2 days and knowing I won't see this adorable little man for a few weeks makes me sad. He really is the light of our lives.
On another note I am sitting here blogging and I have not packed a thing yet. I hate the fact that you are only allowed 1 suit case. I might just pay the $20 extra and stop worrying. I can't wait to get to my parents and just sit in their Florida room and read a good book, go to some flee markets and if I can sneak off an auction or 2. I can mail anything home right !!! There is a great auction house in Inverness about 10 miles away. They have everything from estate auctions to antiques and businesses.They are great people and the place is always packed so you have to go early and stay late. The best bargains are usually later. I bought some beautiful painting there a few years ago that I absolutely love. I was going to bid up to $60.00 on one and I ended up getting all three for $51.00. I was lucky there was no other interested party that night.
Well I will close for now and play with Conner and get some packing done.

Reminiscing

2008-12-31T14:42:00.000-08:00

I think that is what this wonderful time of the year is for. I was reading another blog and saw a picture of her little girl getting her ears pierced. She was obviously in a store having it done with a little gun like my girls had theirs done.
It took me back to that day over 39 years ago when my Uncle Carl from Georgia was up visiting us. My mother and I (10 years old) and Aunt Mary decided we wanted our ears pierced. He said I can do it, get me a bar of soap, some ice and a needle !!! of course me being the youngest and most obviously the bravest or dumbest said I would go first. Or it might have been in fear of my father changing his mind !!! So I went first ice on the ears "do you feel this pinching? " "No" Ok soap behind the ear. That one is done and then on to the next. I remember my exhilaration !!! Oh I was now "IT" and whatever that implies.
Next came my mother who faints at the site of her children being "stitched up". With a little oohh ahh and go ahead I am ready she got hers done. Wow my Mom was so cool... Now It's Aunt Mary's turn "CHICKEN" "COME ON DEBBI DID IT" after about a half and hour of convincing death would not becoming to her Uncle Carl did hers and wouldn't you know it hers bled !!! I vaguely remember her with her head between her knees and everyone worrying she was going to faint.
Now for those of you who don't know Aunt Mary she was my idol, she was beautiful and funny and she had a yellow bug for a car. What could be cooler than that !!! She was 13 years older than myself and many time through out my life she was my best friend and confident. Aunt Mary passed away in 2005 and I miss her, but know thanks to a wonderful Heavenly Father that I will see her again.
I should thank Molly Tatro for her blog as it brought back that beautiful memory for me.

"Christmas with Conner"

2008-12-27T15:58:00.000-08:00

Waiting until almost 2pm on Christmas day was just about all Jacky could stand. But no gifts until Conner and Michelle arrived. I actually think Brandi was starting to get ency. It was all worth it just watching his face with each new gift he opened. He didn't care if it. was clothes or toys.

Everyone was happy with all the goodies Santa brought. Most of all it was good to just spend time with each other.

We missed both sets of grandparents but our new traditions are catching on

MERRY CHRISTMAS

2008-12-24T09:37:00.000-08:00

MERRY CHRISTMAS FROM THE VAISEY'S

JACK, DEBBI,BRANDI & JACKY

"Shopping Shopping Shopping"

2008-12-24T09:12:00.000-08:00

I was tricked into this, I know it was a conspiracy between Brandi and my wonderful husband. Those of you who know me well know I hate stores all together. Well here is how they did it. I had a Dr appointment yesterday and Brandi said she would like to come along as there is one store in Ogdensburg that she would like to run into. Great I thought we don't have enough time together and the company will be good. Off we went !! Only to be called on one or the others cell phone by Jack or Jacky. Jack giving a list of things we needed and Jacky to ask when are you coming after me.

To make along story short the trip to Ogdensburg started at 10:30 am led us to Canton, Potsdam and finally home about 4:30pm. Upon arriving home Brandi had still no gotten all of her Christmas gifts and Tuesday is her only day off, so yes I took her to the MALL !!! We finally arrived home around 7:30pm. If you are wondering why I had to take her Brandi does not like driving on snowy icy roads and that is what we have. Thank goodness for the truck and 4 wheel drive.I cuss to myself every month when I make the payment on that over sized gas guzzling red machine but, boy I love it when it means I am not snow bound. Heck I can drive through the yard with 2 foot of snow and it does not skip a beat.

Brandi thought we should take the "Dart" oh can you see Jack he would probably die of a coronary. That car will never see snow or ice or rain or maybe just maybe not even sun !!!! For those of you who don't know Jack bought his dream car last summer. A 1969 Dodge Dart Swinger (on ebay no less) and to top it of the car was in Oregon. So it was shipped to Massena like a princess. She is bright yellow with a bumble bee black stripe on the back trunk. She gets more attention than I ever will and she has a "440" what ever that means. She also eats more gas than the big red truck. Just give me my Grand Am and leave me alone I tell them every time they say I need a "cooler car" Okay I am 49 years old I wanted that cooler car at 22 not now !!!

Well enough about cars.

Christmas is literally just hours away. I can't wait for Conner to get here tomorrow. I called and talked to him this morning. He is so excited about Christmas!!! FUN FUN FUN...

MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL

"Let it snow Let it snow Let it snow"

2008-12-21T09:22:00.000-08:00

Oh my it is snowing like a mad man out there. They cancelled Church this morning. The Sunday before Christmas and I was looking forward to the Christmas Carols... I guess Brandi and I can sit here and sing for a while. They say we are to get an additional 15 inches in the next 2 days. Snow all you want now but, on January 7th NO SNOW !!!

Brandi made us each a great big mug of hot cocoa. Sitting next to the fire it was great. Just say that this is the only great part of that white stuff,also thank goodness for 4 wheel drives as our driveway has over a foot now. Snow blower does not want to start and I don't blame it...It's cold,like below zero.

Just let me add that there is nothing prettier than freshly fallen snow every where.

MERRY CHRISTMAS

Look out Florida Here We Come

2008-12-20T16:46:00.000-08:00

Unfortunately we will not have Conner with us. But see those short sleeves in January !!!!
YES

We're Leaving on a "JetBlue" Plane

2008-12-20T16:32:00.000-08:00

Ok I know Christmas is just a couple days away but..... January 7th Jack and I will be departing for Tampa.... YEAH Our first vacation ever without children. Oh a honeymoon after 24 years !!! We are going to my parents who live right above Tampa in Homosassa Springs "Yes home of the Manatees.Jack and I are so excited we might start taking Christmas presents back just to have more fun there. Sorry kids we are going to skip Christmas. NO I could not do that ,but the thought has crossed my mind hehehehehe!!! It was 80 there today and 5 here. Now you understand why I want to go.
Does anyone want to buy our motor home ??? I think I would like to buy something there as Jack is not always able to drive. Last time we looked which was 2 years ago they wanted over 100,000 for a trailer. With the economy the way it is now maybe we could get a good deal. We don't need a lot. A pool is a must, small yard, no 55 and above as I am too young, no parks. Pray for me OK.... I do know how blessed I am to be able to do this. My kids are all going to be fending for themselves !!! Brandi and Michelle will be at our house so we don't have to worry there.
Jacky starts his new job on the same day as we leave. He will be working at Clarkson University in Potsdam in the kitchen. I am so excited for him. he can't wait either. he has job coach that will be with him for a while. He has made so many new friends and loves his apartment. He has the best social life of anyone in the family !!!
To all my friends and loved ones Have a Merry Christmas.

Change is OK

2008-12-18T14:07:00.000-08:00

Yes I am writing this for myself more than anyone. My mother in law put on the biggest Christmas Eve buffets probably known to man. The table looking like something out of Martha Stewart. We all loved it so much. SHRIMP SHRIMP AND MORE SHRIMP !!! It was always something to look forward to cookies (pecan sandies to die for) Bread dips, cheese, crackers of every kind, peperoni... On and on.
For years Jack and I have carried on this tradition for our family.Well I am tired and it does not seem to bring the joy anymore just a whole lot of work for 1 hour. Drum Roll Please............This year we are starting a new tradition. Christmas Eve will bring friends and Pizza !!! Easy enough call Pizza Hut. Then Christmas Day will be the munch out all day on a huge breakfast and easy munchies for the day.
We are also inviting Jacky's friend Jay to share our Christmas with us. Jacky and Jay have known each other for years. They both live in the same apartment complex and watch movies every night and generally keep each other company. We are very excited to add Jay to our New Christmas traditions. He is a very sweet man that we love very much.
Michelle gets Conner at 1pm on Christmas Day and we will wait for the little guy to open presents. I think this brings that special joy back into our house. Having a little one and watching their eyes.
If I could send a picture of me now it is of total contentment, as I believe this will be a great Christmas with the Spirit in it. I am so grateful every day for a Savior who is there for me when I need him and to know he loves me through all my faults and shortcomings (witch are many). I am also very grateful for my wonderful husband. Nobody loves me quiet like he does (Unconditional) I am a very fortunate woman.I am grateful for each one of my children. Michelle for her courage to fight the fight she does everyday and keeping the faith in the Lord. Brandi for being an example for me when my faith seems to fail me, she always reminds me that the Lord always knows best. Jacky for his absolutely sweet way of loving almost everyone and for his ability to forgive people who have hurt him. And all my children for their undying compassion for others and their needs.I need to remember my blessings more. Merry Christmas to all who read this and may the true spirit of Christmas dwell in your hearts and homes.

Is this not the coolest picture ever

2008-12-18T07:51:00.000-08:00

This is a picture of my Great great grandparents Aderlbert Orlando Fulton and his wife Nettie Elnora Coon Fulton. No smiles I know but back then they were not encouraged by "say Cheese" Adelbert was born in 1856 in Vermont and Nettie 1862 in Pierrepont, New York. Of course those of you who know me well, know that I love Family History and would block out all other responsibilities if given half a chance.
I love learning about these people and their lives. Where they traveled, their triumphs and their losses. I know one thing they all seemed to visit one another a lot and the local newspaper reported every dinner taken at someone else's home. This family was taken to playing the card game "PEDRO" I know I must have heard my grandfather say he was going to play pedro a million times.
I have a diary of my great grandfather who would be this couples son in law, and every day he noted who won at "ped" today along with what the weather and what the temperature was every day upon rising and going to bed.Of course being a farmer that was very important.
When visiting the local Historical Society the archivist asked me if I was aware that my great grandfather Nelson Milo Caswell's diaries had been donated to them. I was in glorified shock and yes tears came as she brought forth 3 large boxes and white gloves. Inside the boxes where his diaries from @1912-1950. Some not in very good shape as the dirt and mold had seen them. I carefully wiped the yuck from the pages and was able to find him talking about his fathers death. The statement always written phonetically said " Pa Died" He goes on to tell of going to Canton to get the undertaker "Lawrence" Then goes on to say who sang, but the most interesting to me was him telling of which horse and buggy carried which brother or sister to the church.Obviously he held different horses and buggies he owned in different esteem. One horse he called "Jow" Joe must have been his favorite and he is mentioned several times.
Ok I will stop most of you who read this will be bored stiff by this moment. These are the people whom paved the way for me, and their direct decisions made my life what it has been ,and what it is today.

VISIONS OFCHRISTMAS PAST

2008-12-14T17:18:00.000-08:00

OK tell me that these are not the cutest pictures you have ever seen. Thanks to Grandpa and Grandma Vaisey the kids all had matching red velvet outfits. I actually remember feeling that velvet. Brandi got lucky and got Michelle's dress handed down to her. The girls loved dancing around in their dresses and Grandpa & Grandma Vaisey loved buying them for them.

Yes Jack had hair and I had a figure !! They both left in the 80's !!!

That year Jack dressed up in a Santa costume borrowed from a friend, with the horrible smell of smoke.. and scared little Jack half to death.

The kids were reenacting the nativity and Brandi did not get baby Jesus in the right bed. Michelle laughing hysterically as she read the nativity. We have this on video to laugh and cry at for many years to come.

My children have always gotten PJ's on Christmas eve and this year Michelle and Brandi got PJ's for their dolls to match. Cabbage Patch dolls to be exact. We have every Christmas videoed and I need to take time to sit and watch these.

This is how I feel today "Pre Christmas Syndrome"

2008-12-13T07:27:00.000-08:00

This picture taken in Rochester during Special Olympics in October is how I feel today. Like someone dragged me through a knot hole. I am "The Christmas Grinch" today. As most of you who know me I hate to shop !! I know it sounds crazy but you have met the lone female who hates shopping. So I love ebay and half.com and Walmart on line. Old Navy and any other stores that take VISA. Yeah !!! I have done 95 % of my shopping for Christmas that way. Yes I kept everything in bags !! Well my lovable hubby was taking out the trash Thursday night and mistakenly through away a bag of my so called shopping. YES OUT TO THE TRANSFER STATION TO BE SMASHED TO SMITHEREENS !!! I was so depressed and yes I did cry. So back online I got and reordered what I could remember was in the bag. Actually there was mail in there, to us and from us that I had carried from the truck to the house.
To top the afternoon off I went to get into the truck to pick up I don't remember who and my purse dumped upside down in the 6 inches of fresh snow.. you know the light stuff that has no bottom. I quickly retrieved my cell phone a set of earrings, to heck with the change. Many other tiny tiny items (in the dark no less). Then off to take Jacky back home to Potsdam. I finally arrived home around 11:30pm and could not wait for bed. Alas Grandpa had been sneaky and there next to him in bed was the cutest boy on earth. Yes my 3 inches of bed lasted until about 4 am when the sofa looked better. Along with my CPAP machine off I went to sleep there. Now mind you this is the first time Conner has slept in our bed since he was little. He has his own bed and we have one of those baby monitors in our room. I just could not pick him up and move him the little cherub with the footy dinosaur PJ's on. But never again hehehehe.
Brandi woke me to take her to work as the brake pads on the truck started making a noise last night and jack will change them today !!! Last night Jacky dug out my snow covered (over a foot) Grand Am that had been buried for 3 days. So I am determined that today will be a better day. To all who listen to my rambling have a great day. Because through all of this I believe my sufferings will make someone double over in laughter saying that brat had it coming. (I was a horrible child heehehe !!!)

Guess who is visiting Grandma & Grandpa

2008-12-11T17:14:00.000-08:00

Your right Conner. This picture was taken on the day that he and I put the lights on the tree ! Little jack is home for 2 nights also, so Jacky and I met Austin in Fort Covington and picked up the sweetest little boy in the world. He has been here for about 2 hours and we have watched FROSTY and he and Grandpa have put together 2 of his puzzles on the ottoman. Aunt Brandi has kissed him one million times. I just love watching him laying on the floor playing with THOMAS. He has on the cutest little fleece Dinosaur PJ's the ones with feet on them. OH my !!!
Conner can stay until Saturday afternoon . YEAH all the fun we will have. "Unky Jack" is out bowling with some of his friends. Conner can't wait for him to come home and talk to him in Cartoon voices !!! Scooby Doo is his favorite. Conner giggles and giggles no matter what Jacky says. They are defiantly pals... So until he leaves I am "Gandma"

Christams Trees

2008-12-10T09:46:00.000-08:00

Well I can't get my pictures to upload today so the story continues and the pictures may follow. I am absolutely in Love with Christmas trees. I have been for as long as I can remember. The more lights the better. I love the small twinkling kind. I usually wrap colored and white. I think there are 600 lights this year and if Jack would have let me get away with it I would have had 1000. Actually I had great helping hands from Conner putting the lights on this year. if I would have known how much he was going to enjoy this task I would have set up the video camera. I thought about getting it in the middle but, the moment might have been lost and I shall cherish it forever in my memory. It was just he and I and the brand new Christmas lights. he would walk in front of me round and round the tree tucking where he thought they needed to be and I kept feeding the lights having to stop where the new tie was to be untied, then on we continued.Three boxes of them. After each box and sometimes in between he would just jump up and down and clap and laugh so hard right from his belly. "Look Gandma" I bet you we high fived 20 times. When the lights where up I had fully intended on putting the ornaments on but, Conner was just so happy there was no way I was ruining that moment. Grandpa was laying down and Conner had tried to get him up a few times. When we were done Grandpa came to look. You would have thought that he had just painted the Mona Lisa. Well this tickled Grandpa so much that he has decided that each time Conner comes he will have and art project waiting for him to do. Yes i am serious. This last time it was a snowman, cut out the circles and glue them on a sheet. Brandi said Dad never did that with us !!! Grandchildren are a treasure !!! Obviously those of you who know us know that Conner is the center of our lives. He brings us so much joy words can't explain. the Lord has sent us our own little "Star".
The tree is finally decorated with Styrofoam cups with kindergarten pictures to paper stars with 2nd grade pictures to Baby's first Christmas 3 times 1980-1985-1988. My grandma Pharoah's beautiful crocheted stars and Jack's grandparents little elf heads on the end of some lights. There are a few special bought ornaments from others but mostly homemade from felt to cross stitch.tongue depressors painted and glued to look like stars, tooth picks painted and glued to a gold circle to look like a star.I could go on more but lunch is calling.

Christmas spell check horrible added pictures

2008-12-08T08:37:00.000-08:00

Reading my previous blog I spell check early and kept writing sorry. Also here are some pictures to add to it. The first picture is of my grandmother Rose Elizabeth Besio Pharoah. The 2nd and 3rd is of my cousins and I on different Christmases. The 2nd one I am holding my beloved Mrs Beasley (I still have her). The third one I am sitting in the front row 2nd from the right my brother Dan sitting next to me pretending to behave hehehehe. My brother Bill is Top row 1st on the left Quiet and innocent !!! Obviously with us all being different ages and some camera shy, we are never all together in one photo. So to Gary, Wayne, Mike, Scott,Vickie, Marshall, Juli, Steve, Melanie, David, Christine, Lisa, Cory, Amanda Merry Christmas.

Christmas at Grandma Pharoahs

2008-12-08T07:24:00.000-08:00

As we enter this wonderful time of the year I have the fondest memories of gathering with my family at Grandma Pharoahs. Family consisted of Grandma 5 aunts and 4 uncles ,until my youngest Aunt was married after I had already married. 16 cousins of all ages.A 17th to be added years later.
There was the adult table in the kitchen and if you were ever fortunate enough to be seated there life was heaven. My fathers family got along famously, with the normal she or he drives me crazy once in a great while. But, as children we would not have known this. Only as an adult does this become apparent to you. The children never knew of this.We rana dn we played and made more noise I am sure then a room full of monkeys. Funny I don't ever recall being reprimanded there for all the noise and chaos. It just all seemed so idilic to me as a child. My Grandmother had been a widow very young and we all knew she worked very hard to support her and "Aunt Barbie" as we called her. One gift would come our way each year from Grandma. I beleive I can remeber almost every gift she gave us. From McDonalds $1.oo dollar certificates (yes money back from you dollar) to the best address labels and stamps with our very own name on them (WOW) ther must have been a thousand address labels Debbie Pharoah Route #4 Canton, New York 13617. That was me and everyone would know how important I was when they received a letter know. I had address labels. There were half moon rugs for beside our beds, towel sets for our hope chest as we got older. Christmas ornaments, the list goes on. all the girls got the same thing and all the boys the same thing. Our Granmother was incredible.
I loved my other grandparents also,but they belonged to a religion that did not believe in celebrating Christmas. My Grandmother there was equally as wonderful but in many other ways. So at Christmas time I don't remember much of what went on in there lives.
Of course Christmas really began at our own homes at the wee hours of the morning with the 3 of us kids, myself and 2 brothers sitting on the stairs begging our parents to get up. This started many Christmas mornings as early as 3am. 3am was a no go at our house, so my brothers and I would all gather in one bedroom and laugh and share what we thought would be waiting downstairs for us. Had Santa come yet ??? The excitement was more than we could stand. Every few minutes we would yell to one of our parents if it was time yet and were told to go back to sleep which was totally impossible for us. My brothers and I are all close in age. Each being 15 months apart from the next. We loved each other very much. Don't get me wrong we did the normal sibling fighting, but don't let anyone else mess with my little brothers or my wrath was great.
Getting back to Christmas and the times I remember. I think it was my 13th or so Christmas and I wanted a new guitar. As the one I had been using had been given to my brother for a previous Christmas and he had handed on to me. When I came down that morning much to my dismay there was nothing under the tree big enough to be the coveted guitar. There was no way I would have let my parents know of my immediate disappointment and opened the rest of my gifts with a forced smile, even though they were great gifts. All the gifts had been opened and it seemed like the excitement was over. Then with the most mischievous smile I have ever seen my mother have she said Debbi there is a card on the tree addressed to you. This had never happened before. Had the card been there all morning, I will never know. My mother handed it to me and with the most confused emotions I remember having I read the riddle inside. Please go to where you eat breakfast... I ran quickly which lead from one part of the house to another ( For those of you who don't know I grew up in a very old Victorian style house). Finally in a room we called the cold room (soon to become the den) I found the most beautiful guitar I had ever seen. Sitting on the piano bench. Yes the piano was also in the cold room. Oh life was good and how I loved my parents for I knew what a sacrifice it had been to buy the $150 guitar for them.
We as children had the greatest Christmases. My mother would make the greatest homemade chocolates that would sit on "the porch" (enclosed) in white Schawn ice cream buckets labeled according to what flavor lay inside. My mother would bake and cook breads, cookies, fudge and every other divinity you can imagine. But I think my favorite is when she would make ice cream balls. She would take the ice cream (strawberry being my favorite) and roll it into balls that seemed the size of baseballs and then roll them in sprinkles of all different colors. She would place them on a cookie sheet with waxed paper underneath and put them in the large freezer out back to freeze back up. It seemed to me at the time that these were the most beautiful things I had ever seen.
Story to be continued...

More Slugger Pictures

2008-10-13T07:37:00.001-07:00

Jacky's Silver Medal

2008-10-13T07:08:00.000-07:00

The weekend of October 4th and 5th took us to Rochester New York to the New York State Special Olympics. Jacky was playing softball. They played great and came home with the Silver Medal. He has worn it proudly to show everyone. His team mates and coaches are awesome and we had a great time. I have to add that these coaches are the best. I admire what they do and the spirit in which they do it. Everyone plays no matter what their ability.

New York State Special Olympics did it up good for the athletes all 1800 of them. They had fireworks go off on the podium to open the games held at the Rochester Convention Center. Many local college students lined the walkway and high fived every athlete. My hats are off to them they were great.

Jack and I stayed at the same hotel as they did. We had a beautiful 15th floor room over looking the "very dirty" Gennese River. The view of the city was so different than our little back yard here in Massena. Also much noisier !! I think I will stay in quiet Massena.

Conner's trip to "The Cottage"

2008-07-08T07:04:00.000-07:00

Jack, Jacky, Conner and I set out for an adventure to "The Cottage" Jack's parents home on Port Bay in Wolcott New York. It sits right on Lake Ontario with the most wonderful view out the front window.

This was Conner's first trip to 'The Cottage". Grandpa was going to see that he had the same experience there that our kids had, had. All except Tubing!!! or water skiing.

Conner took to he water like and old pro (his first time on a boat). Uncle Steve keeps his boat there and is nice enough to let us use it when we are there. Jack, Jacky and Conner went out each night fishing (grandma stayed back) but the pictures that where taken makes me wonder if any fishing went on. Conner said CHEESE about 100 times to my count. Conner believes that he caught many fish as his pole has a small repala on it of a fish with the barbs cut off hehehehe!

Uncle Jack loves spending time with his adorable nephew and is always happy to make him believe he caught the "BIG ONE".

Grandma went on the boat for the leisurely rides and took many more pictures.

Conner was a trooper on the 4 hour trip there. We took him to see Grannie and Grandpa Vaisey in Fairport as they had only seen him one other time. he took right to Gramps tricks (you know the quarters in the ear stuff). he climbed right in bed with Grannie and gave her a kiss and had his picture taken with her. Grannie just loves those little ones. Conner also got to meet his cousin Lena (Jeff and Kelly's little girl) they hit it of right away and Conner was calling Lena his friend before to long... Now comes the funniest part of the trip..

Grandpa Jack was laying down in bed to nap when Conner and Lena came to his aid, Lena gave her great Uncle Jack a bottle of water and rubbed his arm and then she and Conner sat next to Grandpa on the floor and emptied a full box of Kleenex on the floor. Grandpa Vaisey came in and said look at this no one even used these. When Conner heard that he started to pick each tissue up and wipe his nose with it. wait till you see the pictures. Box of tissue$1.00 Picture of Conner and Lena and many tissue priceless !!!!

Watertown Trip

2008-05-15T17:39:00.000-07:00

Well today was another long day. Jack had to be in Watertown for 11 am for his last spinal epidural today. We always enjoy our ride down but the one back is hard. he has this done with no drugs (his choice). We went to Subway right after to eat and the sweat was running off him from pain and he had to leave. I finished quickly and drove with the cruise on so as not to speed and got home about 4:30.
It is 8:43 and he is up walking around. He is my hero, as most of you know I am a major wimp and if someone had put a needle and fluid in my spine a few hours ago I am down for the day!! Not Jack...
Jacky went to the Circus today and had a ball. We just finished watching all the pictures he took on the BIG TV. Brandi stopped over for a while after work. Michelle is a no show today. She is probably out in her new car... Things like this are big step for her as she starts her life over. Conner says it is Mommy and my car!! He is always surprising us with new sayings. Or his famous "NO WAY" hehehehehe
Brynn, those girls are beautiful. Call when you want. I love you.

Our little Engineer

2008-05-12T14:05:00.000-07:00

I had to post again to reassure everyone that Conner still "Loves Thomas" as his little hat shows. OK messy kitchen cute kid !!!!

Children, Cars and, Time

2008-05-12T13:47:00.000-07:00

Today has been very busy helping Michelle to buy her own car so that I can have mine back... She has been driving mine since December and it was not a big problem until gas did the $4 a gallon. Jacks truck gets 13 yes 13 mpg !!! I want my Grand Am back.
Anyone who knows me knows I love to go places... I do my best thinking and problem solving riding around the back roads of beautiful upstate New York (no some are not paved or traveled that much ) but that is the fun of it. Jacky has learned not to be afraid when I turn of on what seems to be a road somewhere. We never know where we are going but we see the most beautiful things along the way. Birds, flowers, deer of course, breathtaking waterfalls... I could go on. We both usually have a camera out the window, and come home and show Jack what he has missed. This riding for the heck of it is not my husbands thing and that is fine.
He loves being home and putters around all the time or so he calls it. Anything that Conner wants is his next project. I believe if Conner said Grandpa I would love you to do a handstand Jack would try (which we all know could kill him ). Jack and Conner have been playing McDonald's at the play house. As Grandpa pretends to be driving to the window in a car (horn honking and all ) Conner is ready to take his order! He says that chocolate milk is the best ! Grandpa has just ordered from Toys R Us a McDonald's cash register and hat and head phone and apron and food so that Conner will get the full effect. So you get the idea. maybe i should ask Conner to take some catalogs to Grandpa for some of the things Grandma wants hehehehehe!!!
We are so lucky too have this sweet little spirit in our lives. The Lord has blessed us.

2008 Will be better

2008-05-05T15:03:00.000-07:00

WOW time has flown by. I know how much I enjoy reading others blogs so I better keep up with mine.
Our life is very full having all our children back in Massena. i always said the best noise I like to hear is my children's laughter and it still is, BUT ! along with it comes adult children's opinions !!!
And yes Jack and I have raised 3 very opinionated adults.

Michelle and Brandi and Conner are sharing a house here in town, and are really enjoying their large back yard. Conner loves being outside and playing now that the weather is better. Michelle is working at Walmart and plans on finishing school next fall. She is doing well and Jack I are very proud of her.

Brandi just started working for a company named Aaron's, it is a rental store and Brandi is doing the clerical work. She seems to have found her niche. I knew someday it would have to do with computers as she has one attached to her since she was 16.

Jacky and I have started a business called Debbi's Memories. jack takes great photo's which we then make into greeting cards and sell. I am doing genealogy (Family History) for others. Jack sold quite a few cards to a place called tauny (traditional arts of upstate new york). He has a great talent and love for outdoor photo's.

Jack just had his second in a series of 3 epidural shots in his spine. We are praying that this gives him some relief from the pain he suffers daily. He absolutely is in love with Conner and spends as much time as he can with him. he said to Michelle one day "i bet you never thought you would give birth to my best friend" They fish and swing and ride the lawn mower. He makes Jack smile like no one else. when you ask Conner who his best friend is he replies "Gandpa". Of course I don't enjoy him at all !!! He is defiantly the light of my life.

Now I am a little caught up I will stop for now.

Conner and Thomas

2007-06-20T18:46:00.000-07:00

I have never seen Conner so absorbed or in love with anything like he is with Thomas. It is like there is noting else in the world when he is with that train. In this picture he would look at the floor then at the pictures as if he were checking his inventory !! He knows them all by name. Nana and Papa and" Gandpa "and Grandma and Mommy and Daddy all had cameras so this event is well documented.

Mom's TV ears or are they Dad's

2007-06-20T18:41:00.000-07:00

Can you tell Dad gets really into his TV. Yes TV ears are great when everyone else is talking and you don't care about it at all.

Home Again Home Again

2007-06-20T18:24:00.000-07:00

It seemed like we were in Florida forever this year. The motor home gets small with 3 adults after 5 months !!! Never again for that long. We missed Conner terribly so we flew Michelle Austin and Conner down in Feb. In March ,Jack had with drawls again and he flew home for a week and stored up on hugs.
Our Motor home must have weighed 3 million lbs. I have learned that I love auctions and have a very hard time keeping my hand down. As a result we brought home an old stage coach trunk, A lot of artwork, crocks, numerous lamps, antique large canning jars, lots and lots of candles as one auction was a gift store being auctioned !!! Great buys. But Jack takes the cake he brought home a dinning room set and a new dresser and oh yes the new little car for Conner (tied to the top of the motor home for 1500 miles !!! The Clampets have arrived in Massena. And yes we were embraced... Funny thing about living here nobody thought it was odd that a brand new dodge truck being hauled behind a motor home with chairs upside down in the front and back seats was odd hehehehe !
Brandi was glad we were home. We immediately went and got Conner for 5 days. To heck with unloading thet thing in the driveway... I miss seeing Mom and Dad everyday. I enjoy the silly names my father still calls me ranging from "Eber kadeber" "brat" "bleep". Yes that is Dad. Up at the crack of dawn thinking everyone in the world should be up at that time in the morning. I hate mornings, always have always will.. But I do vacuum at midnight oh well !!!
I will try to keep this updated in my free time YAH...

80's v SNOW

2007-01-15T05:16:00.000-08:00

Wow the look at the Massena's webcam this morning made me very glad that I am not there, but instead enjoying 80's today. It is strange but I can feel myself in that freezing weather having to go somewhere. YIKES !!!! I will stay where I am.

Dad fished himself out yesterday and can't take us to the big flee maket in Webster today. I was up at 6:30 went into there house and showered and never woke them up. That is unusual as dad is always up at the crack of dawn.

Vicky and Juli should be back from there cruise today so I look forward to spending time with them. I sure enjoy their company.

Jack has been down with his back for about 4 days he is going to try to move today though.

So all is well in our little home on wheels.
Debbi

Sunshine

2007-01-11T06:47:00.000-08:00

This Florida sunshine sure feels good. Although yesterday was quite cold and breezy. Today it is to be 73 with sunshine and then back up in the 80's

Cousins Vicky and Juli and her husband are here ready to go on a scrapbooking cruise this morning through the Bahama's. Oh how I envy them hehehehe. Although I have it really nice here and feel very blessed to have a place so beautiful to stay. Our motorhome is really our home on wheels and we are very comfortable in it.

Jack put on the Disney channel this morning and got homesick for Conner. Grandpa Handy Manny and Conner what a set !!!! There is love.

Jack and Jacky have found a (gun) shooting range about 5 miles down the road and are going to join. It seems to me so ironic that Jack always wanted to retire to golf and can't... So the Lord put another shooting range in his palns. It is true where one door is closed another is opened.

I have already read another of Nicholas Sparks books in the last 3 days and have 2 more waiting me. It is nice to be able to pick them up at the flee markets fro 50 cents. I got the greatest veggies there at (Cowboy Junction) tuesday morning. $1 each for a bag of apples , carrots, sweet potatoes,cucumbers,oranges. I love that about here.

Enjoy the sunshine of every day
Debbi

Quiet after the storm

2006-11-17T10:39:00.000-08:00

I guess the title says it all. It has been a hectic month so far. The last of October and beginning of November where spent taking care of Conner as Austin had his surgery. He is doing well, but I am sure impatient for activities as usual. He came home with a walker and that is not condusive to chasing a 19 month old. Conner seems to know that also !! Michelle has her hands full.
Brandi and I took Mom and Dad to Syracuse to catch there plane Tuesday and they were safe and sound in 70 degree weather that evening. I have had some kind of virus or whatever and could not find the strength to drive home. We went to the mall for about 25 minutes and were both exhausted...So on to the Christmas Tree Store...my favorite place in the world and I was too tired to do much shopping. I picked up a few things and thought we should head for home. I did not make it far and realized this was not to be. So off to a Holiday Inn Express where we both went to sleep at 3pm and woke long enough to have pizza delivered and back to sleep until the next morning. We headed home Wed about 11. I was in horrible shape but we made it home and I went right to bed. I am feeling a little better today but not on top of the world.
I am working on hats with my knitting loom and listening to another of Nicholas Sparks books as I knit. This one was only available on audio cassette so I dragged an old Boom Box out and it works great. This book is called the Rescue. He is a great author and I especially like this way of reading !?!?! books. I love to multi task given an oppertunity hehehe!!!!
We have the living room emptied to paint the walls for the first time in 15 years and I am down to snading all the patches hehe. This damp weather has put Jack right in bed. Florida can not come soon enough for him.
With Christmas just around the corner I want to decorate but with everything torn up that will have to wait a bit.
I thank God everyday for the blessings and trials he allows me to have and hope this old lady learns from them.
Oh by the way on the 13th Brandi turned 21 and Jack 50. I am married to a senior citizen and it is not at all different hehe.
Love to Everyone Debbi

Beautiful Day

2006-10-13T09:19:00.000-07:00

My life has been so busy that I have not had time to post. Today is gorgeous outside very nippy, but a blue, blue sky. Just my kind of weather. I have been finishing a scarf for a neighbor of mine and I will start to work on the hat that matches tomorrow. that is so when she gets my mail in the middle of Feb. she might keep warmer thinking of me in Florida. Oh well it was a thought.
I am always inspired by the great love that our Heavenly Father has given us. When I see a new baby and want to ask them so many questions they can't answer.Creation always puts me in a state of ahhhhhhh !!! hehe you know the one. Our Brandch President's home has a brand new baby sheep that we saw the day after birth. Runing along after her Mom for some nourishment. I could have watch it for hours. It's feet still a little wobbly and an 80 lb older brother nudging it out of the way. It seemed a little like my kids, "I want Mom's attention now". Even at ages 18,21,26 it still happens.I am so thankful for each one of them and how they help me grow by testing me to the limits, or giving me the greatest joy by there compassion for others.Thats when I feel like some of the last 27 years I have really accomplished something.
I need to go as we are having aactivity at church tonight. Hayride, Chili outside by a fire and then a dance at an old country schoolhouse that has just been restored and when I say it is in the middle of nowhere I mean it. Have a great Day.

Fall is here

2006-10-01T11:30:00.000-07:00

I always know when fall is here when General Conference of our church is on byutv.org . Jack and I have sat for hours watching and enjoying the messages of hope and inspiration they always leave us with.
Jacky is so excited as usual about Halloween and I have made my first purchase ever from QVC hehehehe !!! The ugliest Halloween mask in the world. But much cheaper than the local costume store that we usually go to.
We will be at Michelle's for Halloween as Austin is having his surgery in Burlington and Michelle will be there with him. We will have a few days with our little guy. Did I tell you about Conner's new drum set that we got from Jack's brother Steve. When we call, Michelle holds the phone up so we can hear him smashing away !!! When he is here all he wants to do is play Grandpa's drums or ride on the lawnmower with Grandpa.Can't tell we love him !! Well I must go and put the Ham in for Sunday dinner. Have a great day.
Debbi

Conner's Here

2006-09-22T14:34:00.000-07:00

My sunshine is here visiting Grandma and Grandpa. He has been out mowing with Grandpa. He loves riding on the mower and he just adores his new drum set hehehehe !!! Thanks Aunt Julie you knew what you where doing.
I have done nothing but snuggle and grocery shop today !!! So it is a good day.
Debbi

2006-09-16T11:29:00.000-07:00

Here is the sunshine of my life, Conner William. This is an older picture but I love his expression.My computer monitor always has a picture of him on it. He always makes me smile and yes I talk to him on the screen. Such as Good morning Conner. My family says I am a little crazy but oh well !!!
I hope to learn more about this blogging and how to add more things to it. That is when I yell Brandi come help me !!!

2006-09-13T18:38:00.000-07:00

Today has been my idea of the perfect fall day. Just a littls light rain falling 68 degrees and a long ride in the car with just Jack and I. I know I am easy to please most of the time. We walked around Lowes to see what project we should start in the house. We have been here for 22 years and there are still thing we want to do. It is beautful (down back) as we call it. Our back yard sits on the Raquette River flowing down from the Adirondacks. I looked out the other day and there were about 10 kayaks going down river they were all different colors, I wish I could have grabbed my camera quick enough !! But I enjoyed a beautiful moment.
It is also nestling in time and I have been knitting. I have made about 70 hats so far and am starting on some scarves that will go to the kids at local schools. Most of the hats are headed to Burlington to the NIC unit and the Cancer unit also. I have to admit that I have enough yarn to make 200 more. I have gotten way over my head in buying yarn. But it is so much fun !!! Thanks to Bevscountrycottage.com site I am learning more about round loom knitting which I love.
Thanks for sharing my babbling.
Debbi

2006-09-11T20:21:00.000-07:00

This is crazy, it is 11:15 and I have already been to bed. But something pulled me out to post this or I wouldn't go to sleep.
As you all well know Midlife has hit and with that comes getting rid of things that you don't need anymore. Most of you who know me well know that I have not thrown out a birthday card I have gotten since I was 17 (Yes I have them all). Today was a cleansing day !!! I found a large bag of cards that needed to be gone through. I had saved some for Michelle from her father and my wedding. She said throw them all out except for the ones from my Grandama Mousaw (who passed away when Michelle was very young) With that done and a large pile on the floor in front of me, I also found my Highschool Graduation cards. Yes 28 years ago and I have carted them since then. Some made me laugh, some I could not remember the sender??? But one made me sob.... It was a card from my Aunt Mary who passed away a year ago last May. I have been trying since then to express how I felt about her and could never get out quiet what I wanted. There was something extrememly special about her to me that only she and I knew. I was reading the card as I was talking to Michelle on the phone and almost could not finish it. This is what I had been looking for. This is what Aunt Mary did for me, how she made me feel... It is a beautiful baby blue card with an encouraging verse on the front, but the inside wriiten by her was wonderful. It follows:
June 23, 1978
Debbi,
Your smile always brings happiness to those it shines on, Thank God for you.
May your unbounded enthusiasm always enlighten those aroung you, So in this world with so many saddening things may your zest for life remain as full as the flower in Spring.
Your present was yesterdays future, may your dreams of days gone by, be yours today. "Special" thats you.
Congratulations, Al & Mary
This is how my Aunt Mary made me feel about myself. What a wonderful gift God gave me when he gave me her as an Aunt. The encouragement that I must have felt at 18 when I read this card obviously carried me through some rough time and now all these years later it is an answer to many prayers from me about where my life should go... She has guided me again. Just simple be happy, love life and know that you are "Special" if only to her.

I am now a Blogger

2006-09-10T09:13:00.000-07:00

I have decided to get with the times and be a blogger. Actually I wanted a place to share family news and things going on in our lives. Also to show off pictures, and let my family know how the Family History is coming along.

I just got back from spending a week with Aunt Doris and Uncle Bill. They are great hosts, and Jacky and I had a great time. I scanned over 280 of Grandma & Grandpa Caswells picture while I was there. I hope to have them burned on CD's ,and get them to whom ever wants copies. Naming some have bee a task. Some will make you smile, laugh or cry.

I love my family very much and miss those of you I don't get to see often. Until later
Debbi