I haven't posted since Christmas Eve and I have lots to say with regard to visits throughout Christmas with Frieda, all the things I'm thankful for in the past year and what we all have to look forward to in 2008.
There are a lot of funny and wonderful events that happened with Frieda during all the Christmas visits. I will share those in various posts over the coming days. I think you'll find them impressive and uplifting.
As for now, I wanted to write my final post for 2007 with some reflections.
First of all, if you are reading this, you are still alive and hopefully well. That in itself, I have learned is a major feat as a result of my own personal experiences with family and loved ones this year.
Secondly, I am so very thankful for my family. We have a close knit, loving family and we support each other in ways that sometimes are just more than I can believe. I appreciate you and love you all very much.
I am grateful for my friends. Again, this year had been a year of uncertainty, medical trauma, life and death situations, hospitals and all the ups and downs that occur in those situations. My best friend has been seriously ill since July and I am inspired each and every day as she fights her way back from two massive strokes...regardless of what doctors and others says she can or cannot achieve. Frieda keeps that fighting spirit of hers moving forward and working hard. I LOVE YOU FOR THAT FRIEDA! You're a simply amazing.
My daughter will enter her final semester of college in January. I can hardly believe that, but I am so very proud of all she has accomplished. It's both exciting and frightening to realize that she is indeed "an adult" and about to enter an adult world. I am so sure she's going to do great things. Her heart is SO big and she is SO giving and nurturing. I know Marah will touch a lot of lives.
As for all of you reading this, EACH of you hold a special and dear place in my heart. Some of you are family, some are friends I know personally, some professionally, some of you, I have never met and we only know one another via emails regarding this blog. However I "know you," always be reminded that you hold a special place in my heart and I'm wishing you and your families all the very best that 2008 has to offer.
Years fly by so very quickly anymore and I think it's important for all of us to take pause on those thing that REALLY matter. I mean REALLY matter. I'm not talking about the disappointments we all have from time to time, I'm not talking about when the internet goes down or the cell phone breaks or you have a dropped call. Those are silly inconveniences. My hope is that we can all MAKE time each and every day to give thanks for all we have and all we are blessed with. Indeed, even with all the problems the media says America has, she is still the greatest land in the world and we would do well do focus on the GOOD in our country and stick together as AMERICANS first, and then issues such as divisive politics and political parties can find a place way on down the line. We are AMERICANS. We were AMERICANS before George Bush, before Bill Clinton and before anything else, we should embrace that. That would be my wish for my country this year...that we could be a COUNTRY again.
Watch less news and help a neighbor in need. That's how it used to work and it worked well. No politics were involved reaching out to another. Just food for thought.
I wish you all a safe and happy New Year's Eve celebration. I wish you all success, GOOD HEALTH, prosperity (in all forms) and most of all I wish you blessings, peace and love!
HAPPY NEW YEAR!!! LET'S EMBRACE ALL 2008 HAS TO OFFER!! IT'S GOING TO BE A GOOD YEAR FOR US ALL! I JUST FEEL IT!
With love and many well wishes,
Annie

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(Izzy politely found himself a box I left in the middle of the floor. He laid there for over 2 hours as we all stepped over and around him. He clearly wasn't bothered by all the hubbub going on around him. Oh to be that content...to just let life go on around you, come what may! That might be a good hint toward a resolution for 2008! Just gotta enjoy Christmas right now! Too soon to be thinking about what I'm going to resolve! But Izzy may have given me a good start on what to start thinking about!)
Merry Christmas from all of us at the Dumb Bell Ranch to all of you!
Marah is home. We have been baking, so the house has been filled with good scents and good things to eat. We are blessed. We are warm, safe, we have a home, a loving family and incredible friends. Another Christmas is upon us.
Karen Winfrey, Denny Potter, (they are sister and brother) Karen's son Hank and Jake (Karen and Denny's nephew) came to visit yesterday. We had a BLAST being together!!! We are close friends...more like family and we have all been through so much together this year. We have made it though! And that is certainly worth celebrating.
Young Nancy and Doug came over last night to open gifts and share Christmastime with us. We had talked about words like "change" and "different" and how time doesn't stop and wait, so we have to make the best of situations and do the right thing. We had fun together. One irony is that Young Nancy is "her mother's daughter" for sure...yet I saw a more grand statement in what I'm about to tell you. We were opening gifts and I have us take turns...one at a time to drag it all out! It was my turn to open a gift. When I opened it, I began having chills and felt I was going to cry. It was the SAME IDENTICAL COASTER SET that Frieda had given me for my birthday...and Nancy said the same identical thing that Frieda said..."They just looked like you." I agreed! I love them then, and I love the new ones now. Somehow, that made Frieda's presence with us in a strange, yet profound way. I can't wait to tell her today when we visit. She'll get a kick out of that! Nancy and Doug also gave me a beautiful fountain that I'll find a perfect place for after Christmas.
Later in the evening, Marah, Wayne and I were watching Christmas movies and I was emailing back and forth with our dear friend Mel Stanforth. He and his wife Mary are in Montana with their daughter and her family. It was so neat to hear the stories he was telling of last minute shoppers that are not at all dissimilar to the shoppers here in Eastern North Carolina. It was great fun to share and connect at Christmas...even over many, many miles. Melf (as we call him at Christmas time!) even sent us a wonderful "game" he knew we'd love...and we did! There is a Yeti (a bigfoot) that holds a club. A penguin jumps off the rock and the Yeti tries to hit it! HA! It has a counter for how many feet the Yeti hits the penguin and everything! Strange noises, funny Yeti behavior when you MISS (which is fairly often!) We have had a blast with that crazy game! Thanks Mel! Poor Penguins!
And isn't that part of the magic of Christmas? Surprises? Unusual occurrences? It's not the "things" so much as it is the laughter, the gathering and the SPIRIT of being together. People can fuss about the gifts, etc. but if you allow it, even those have their place and their own magic and indeed can and do reflect on the Christ child. The mere exchanging of gifts offers love. Someone selected (hopefully not too out of budget!) something carefully and thoughtfully about "you" and gave it to you as a symbol of love. Several things come to mind..."Where two or more are gathered, there is love," "God is Love" and more thoughts along those lines.
I wish you peace and on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day filled with nothing but love and good things. I wish each of you that read this blog a healthy, happy and prosperous 2008. Most of all, I wish for you God's blessings and the knowledge that a baby was born in Bethlehem for us all. We celebrate that birth on December 25 each year...don't forget to celebrate what that birth has done for us all, indeed the whole world.
I have "met" so many nice folks through my blog and I am thankful for each and every one of you. I appreciate the time you take to send me emails, to make comments and for sharing your thoughts on what I have to say "with me."
MERRY CHRISTMAS FROM MY HOME TO YOURS! THANK YOU SO VERY MUCH FOR SHARING MY THOUGHTS, NOTIONS, FEELINGS AND "WHATEVER I FEEL LIKE TALKING ABOUT" WITH ME!
GOD BLESS EACH AND EVERY ONE OF YOU AND LET'S GET READY FOR A BRILLIANT 2008!!!
With love from us all,
Annie, Wayne and Marah

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The picture at the top is Marah at about 4 years old. She had decorated herself in buttons JUST for Santa. One I remember particularly was "FAT MAN'S COMIN'!" She was SO proud to show that one to Santa. I hope he had the same sense of humor about it that we did. (She made out like a bandit that Christmas, so I guess he wasn't offended!)
The picture to the left shows Marah, Santa and Me...Nowadays!
I've been a big fan of Santa, well, all my life. Like any other child, I was not one to push it to the limit. (Although, I'm certain I came fairly close at times!) "Way back when" parents DID exude a certain amount of behavioral control of their children with the ever present threat of the dreaded bag of switches or the lump of coal. I have a couple of pictures that I wanted to share because I've lost my mind completely to post these,but they're fun and IT'S CHRISTMAS!! I suppose they rank right up there with me getting to meet "THE MAESTRO" a couple of weeks ago...ME WITH SANTA!!!
I still love to have a photo with Santa as often as possible...and if you look back a couple of posts, you'll see that I really do know him! He tolerates me well...and manages to bring a little something, even if I've not been perfectly good. So, if any kids are reading this, or you know any you'd like to read it to...SANTA IS COMING! SOON! The countdown is on....and I'm right in there counting down too!
Today is THE 20th! Christmas Eve is FOUR, count 'em, FOUR days away.
Ooooooooooooohhhhhhhhhhhhhh.....You'd better watch out! You'd better not cry! You'd better not pout! I'm telling you why!
SANTA CLAUS IS COMING TO TOWN!!!
COME ON SANTA!!! I BELIEVE!!! I STILL REALLY, REALLY BELIEVE!!!!

This is an OLD photo of myself, Santa and my brother Quint. I think I was, maybe 7 and Quint about 5...can't remember our ages, but I'm sure we gave Santa an earful that night. I still remember the visit, however, to this day.

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I was very saddened to learn that singer/songwriter Dan Fogelberg had passed away on Sunday, Dec. 16. He was known for a lot of his "pop" songs, but Fogelberg was extraordinarily talented at many levels. I think what I admired most was that in the cut throat world of music, he did what he wanted and how he wanted to do it.
Some folks classify his work as "folk." Others classify it as "pop." I've also heard "easy listening," "soft rock" and other descriptions. For me, it was simply "the work of Dan Fogelberg." It seemed to me to be more of a mood that he chose to deliver, more so than trying to play to a certain genre. His bluegrass work is simply righteous! "Wandering Shepherd" is one of my all time favorites, as is "Down the Road."
Dan Fogelberg was one of many influences in my writing, how I play my guitar and how to "deliver" a song. His words are known to us all. You might not recall the name immediately, but upon hearing the song, you'd say OH YEAH! I know him now! (How many weddings since "Longer" was released have you been to where that song wasn't at least played, if not sung?) He spoke to your heart as he sang simple a song telling of a Christmas Eve impromptu meeting in a grocery store, (Same Old Lang Syne-true story), deeply haunting songs that didn't make the mainstream like Souvenirs, the well remembered Leader of the Band...Run for the Roses...the list goes on and on. My brother called Tuesday night to ask if I had "heard." No, I had not. I didn't know that Dan Fogelberg had passed away. Memories flooded my mind and ran so quickly through the late 70's and into the 80's when my brother and I would spend hours discussing our musical favorites. We have always had the same basic tastes in music, so those discussions were easy and usually pretty intense in terms of what we loved to listen to. Dan Fogleberg was an artist at many levels. He started as a painter, actually, then "switched" to music.
And what a musician he was. As well as being a writer, he played many instruments and played them all expertly.
In this day and age, the artistry of writing is so incredibly compromised, dictated by labels and creativity is so squelched. Dan Fogelberg was too young to leave a legacy. He had a lot left to give, but that was not meant to be. My hope and my prayer is that the younger generations of writers will pay careful attention to the lyrics and melodies of writers like Dan Fogelberg. The comparisons are many...James and Liv Taylor, Jimmy Buffett, Jackson Browne...there are a lot from that era that fell (to me) in the same genre. I'm listing men, but let's face it, men were the more recognized singer/songwriters in their day. Bonnie Raitt, Emmylou Harris and other wonderful female singers got the songs the men wrote. (Mary Chapin Carpenter helped to work on all that! Yet, now you barely hear from her.)
It's very discouraging when a talent like Dan Fogelberg is lost, in terms of creative, non-standard, no cookie cutter allowed song writing. I know I felt a deep loss last night when my brother told me. It's those pioneers of writing and crafting songs that make you "feel something right here" and I'm afraid that's all but lost in most every genre of music today. I learned of Dan Fogelberg in the late 70's. I was in Europe and a friend at the time named Anne Yonover asked me if I knew of him. She played "Part of the Plan." I knew the song, but not the singer, but you can bet I never forgot that name. By the time the LP (that's long play vinyl album for you young kids!) "PHOENIX" was released...one listen to "Tullamore Dew" and it was, once again, love at first listen. I would be afraid to guess how many times Quint and I played that record as loud as we could play it as well as over and over again! My collection of older Fogelberg (as well as my brother's) grew. We collected all the records, even the duet he did with Tim Weisberg (Twin Sons of Different Mothers). My brother told me he has the follow up called "No Resemblance Whatsoever."
On a serious note, Fogelberg was diagnosed in 2004 with advanced prostate cancer. If you go to his website (and I encourage you to do so), you can read a message that he had posted some time ago...along with a serious warning to all men. After 40, take your testing seriously. It is sadly a matter of life and death, as this post shows. Prostate cancer, like most cancers, if caught early, is very treatable. But, it's up to you menfolk out there to be responsible for your health in that regard! Read the post on the website. It is now a chilling reminder that we are mortal.
I am grateful to know and love the music that Dan Fogelberg made. It's hard to imagine that there won't be another collection of his work and that future generations will not know the true depth of his creativity. Most of all, I'm sorry he left us so soon.
Your voice, your words and your melodies are already missed Dan Fogelberg. Rest in peace. I was thinking last night, I guess you're with "The Leader of the Band" right now. I'll be listening to "Souvenirs" in your honor. *Thanks for giving my brother and me many good memories together with the love of your music that we share.

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Today is Wayne's birthday...he's 76. I'm so pleased he's made it this far. You can't tell it from the picture, can you?! HA!
Just a quick little HAPPY BIRTHDAY POST to Dubya. He's having a good day so far. He's had coffee, several phone calls and is wandering around like a happy camper. He's gone to try on a birthday gift...a shirt that he wanted a while back.
I'll be baking a pound cake shortly and we're planning a quiet day. He wants pound cake and ice cream for DINNER. So, hey! Sounds good to me!
He also wants to spend time with Frieda today, so we will be going to Washington to visit and celebrate with her.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY WAYNE-O!!! Here's wishing you MANY more!!!
I love you!
Annie

Also!!! CONGRATS TO MISS MARAH!! SHE MADE THE DEAN'S LIST AT UNC-W (AGAIN! PROUD MOM SAYS!) AND WILL BE HEADING INTO HER FINAL SEMESTER SHORTLY!!
CONGRATULATIONS TO MARAH'S BOYFRIEND KEVIN, WHO IS GRADUATING AT NORTH CAROLINA STATE UNIVERSITY AS I TYPE THIS!!!! WE LOVE YOU BOTH!!!!

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(Izzy finds a way to "present" himself amongst the presents under our tree. As you'll read below, his attempts to camouflage himself are generally futile...he's obviously a WHITE cat!)
It's mid-December...we're all in the throws of wrapping gifts, purchasing just the right thing for those we love, and somewhere in the midst of it all, I hope we're remembering often WHY we're doing all of this. It's Christmastime. It's a joyous time of love, of lights, of celebration, of excitement, of friends, of family and it's the celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ.
A couple of years ago, I recorded a CD and titled it simply "Christmas." I selected songs that meant something to me from childhood up to my adult life. Strategically placed in the "middle" of the CD, I did a reading from Luke describing the birth of Christ. I did that intentionally to make a statement that amid all the fun, the joy and even the stresses of Christmas, in the middle of it all, there is a story we should remember.
Tonight, Wayne and I had dinner with our neighbors. It was a lovely, relaxed evening in a beautiful home, with wonderful laughter and conversation. I realized that the "beauty" was how warm, comfortable and inviting everything about the evening was. I have trouble sometimes when I feel that folks go to a lot of trouble for us...and tonight, we truly were enveloped with love, celebration and friendship. Heck, I'll even venture to call it "pampering!"
Wayne and I have been acquainted with our neighbors, but not as much as I would have liked and it has been my own fault. As a rule, I stick pretty much to myself around here. I love company, but don't venture out much. Marah says I've given myself the reputation as being "the crazy animal lady." Perhaps I have and that's ok too. Even tonight as prepared as I was, I had to do a quick "Izzy chase" when we were only going a very short drive from our home to our neighbors. (As an aside, wanting to be on time, we were all ready to go and even early. And right there on the side of the road, sat a fat white cat, thinking he was totally camouflaged! I was driving, so didn't heed Wayne's advice to keep driving. I jumped out of my car and took a detour across my own property chasing Izzy. I figured he could just sit in my car while we visited! I was able to touch him once...and off he went into the woods.) Composing myself from my unexpected "jog," we drove on to the Whites. I reasoned that we had that extra bit of TIME because Izzy was going to be out there creating somewhat of a roadblock. But, he didn't make us late! We laughed about that crazy cat and continued on, still on schedule. I confessed about the great cat chase shortly after we arrived at the Whites and we had a good laugh. At least our goats didn't follow us there. They've been known a while back to head down the road, visiting the boat landing and the neighbors. Fortunately, they've gotten too fat and lazy to leave the farm nowadays.
Mary shared special Santas that she collects. (I collect Santas too!) She shared various dolls and special items that her mother had made, her friends had made and items that bring back special memories to her at Christmastime. I was grateful to see these items and hear the stories behind them. I love hearing memories and traditions of other families.
I'm not sure what Wayne and Bill talked about because I was busy talking with Mary, but I'm guessing it had to do with water, boats and "man stuff." Wayne was thrilled when we got home and quite ready to talk about what a great time he had, how great the evening was and what wonderful hosts the Whites were.
He is sleeping now and I'm still going over the events of the evening and relishing friendships, family, love and sharing. I am concluding more and more each year that "TIME" is the most precious gift we can give one another. When we give "time" we are giving of ourselves in so many ways.
I want to say thank you to our friends Mary and Bill for sharing your time with Wayne and me this evening, for sharing your home and for sharing yourselves with us. Christmas is a busy time for everyone. We try to meet every deadline, make plans to perfection, schedule to accommodate all of our families...and I am guessing the most important gift is "time."
Christmas TIME. Even after December 25, it's time that is most important in the big picture I suppose. Celebrating the birth of the Christ Child doesn't have to come to a screeching halt on December 26th, so I'm going to try to stretch it out and make it last as long as it can. I'm using an artificial tree this year, so who knows? I might still be going strong at Valentine's! (JOKE!)
Christmas TIME...That is a gift in itself. It's also something to consider giving, isn't it?

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(photo of my Perkl-Light Portable Energy Spa...and the cool reflection of my Christmas tree in the photo!)
With a lead in like that, I just had to find out if I "perkl'd (is that a word?) or not! And now, after well over a year or so...(or closer to two) of reading, studying and researching the product, now I can say, "Indeed I DO "PERKL!"
As a Reiki practitioner, a firm believer of homeopathic remedies, and a mental conviction of "physician, heal thyself," I am always looking at new and innovative products.
The PERKL-LIGHT caught my attention a good while back. It is a machine invented, essentially by accident, by David Thomas. who was an engineer in his previous life. (I am proud to say that I have withheld ALL hamburger jokes and not once during my ordering process nor in ANY serious discussions of this wonderful hand held spa, did I say, "I'd like to super-size that and add a Frosty, please!)
David Thomas has hit on something big. LOTS of folks are interested in energy work. Problem is, many folks don't ask about what they don't understand and another problem is time! Perkl-Light takes care of all that for you. If you have never had a Reiki treatment, first of all, you don't know what you're missing. I would describe what I "feel" is a "reiki-like" energy that comes from this little portable spa. It is wonderful, it is soothing and it's certainly worth experiencing.
I have been using it for a few days now on various settings, various human conditions, etc. and am seeing some exciting things. For example, I have used it consecutively on someone with carpal tunnel syndrome, who reports that after about 45 minutes with the Perkl-Light, he was able to sleep all night without being awakened with pain and numbness.
I'm a newbie to the Perkl-Light, so I have a lot to learn about it yet. It covers all the chakras, meridians, body systems, ayurvedic systems, spiritual settings, settings akin to accupuncture, etc. as well as color settings that have combinations that are virtually limitless. All of these modalities are in one neat tidy little package that is unbelievably simple. In fact, in my "several" conversations with Mr. Thomas this week, I determined that I am making it MUCH harder than it should be!
If you are interested in energy work at all, it's worth having a look at the Perkl-Light. Believe me, there is no "sales pitch." As I said, I think I wrote and asked for a DVD, probably two years ago! If Dave was waiting on my purchase back then to buy groceries, I guess he would have starved to death. I have learned that it is being used for room clearing, it is being used by counselors, chiropractors, massage therapists, and many other practices. David also gives a generous 30 day return policy. If you buy it and find (and I cannot imagine that you would!) that the Perkl-Light Portable Spa is not for you, he would be glad to refund your purchase price. (*Another little PERK right now is that David is running an incentive of a $50 rebate until the end of the year! If you haven't finished your Christmas shopping, it's a great HE or SHE gift or a great COUPLE gift to give to one another! You simply purchase the Perkl-Light, send in a copy of your receipt and a rebate form that comes with your brand new Perkl-Light and KABOOM, you get 50 bucks back. Can't go wrong with a deal like that! )
I'm blogging about this little bundle of energy because I am simply excited about the potential it has to do many things. In speaking with David Thomas, I gathered that even he doesn't realize the full potential of this device! And THAT is so exciting!
Have a look at www.perkl-light.com and just read about it. I believe there is a video there showing how it works and you can also see David on there too. He's such a nice guy and his story is one that is truly fascinating. I'll keep you posted on various things I'm using my Perkl-Light for and what results I get.
Oh yeah...I PERKL! You bet I do!

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(Even poor Geordie doesn't know what to say, how to act or what to do for Christmas anymore! He thinks the PC crowd is trying to throw Christmas to the dogs! No wait! He IS a dog! But he wishes you all a MERRY CHRISTMAS anyway!)
Ok, I have had enough. I'm up to HERE with all this "PC" stuff. I'm 45. CHRISTMAS has been on December 25 for at least 45 years. I've watched Americans become more and more "European" just in the past 5 years and it's repulsive. I am worn out with all the traditions that our country has loved and enjoyed FREELY and openly all of my life, suddenly being kept hush-hush. I am right now watching the news. All the commercials are "holiday" commercials. Does anyone realize that even the word holiday comes from HOLY DAY? So, smart as the advertising world thinks it is, it's really not so smart after all. I have many friends in various religions. Why is it that MY religion, which, I might add happens to be the predominant religion in this country and always has been...has to be swept under the rug? Are we worshipping snow now? How about Frosty the Snowman? Are we worshipping winter? NO! Tell that to a bunch of kids who are expecting a haul on CHRISTMAS MORNING! They are CHRISTMAS PRESENTS!
I'm just at a loss about all this "holiday" business. Even the Jewish religion has had to fall into the commercialism that "the great thinkers" of America have forced upon them. Hanukkah, although important, is certainly not the most important of Jewish holidays! Yom Kippur (Day of Atonement) is by far more important in the Jewish faith.
The "bearing of gifts to the Christ child" is why Christians around the world shower one another with gifts as a part of today's celebration of Christmas. I can remember my grandparents saying at Christmas time, they got an orange, some paper, pencils and maybe a top, a ball or something. Nothing like today's spending frenzy that we engage in. Today's kids think it's a free-for-all to get every single thing known to mankind all in one night.
Now, don't get me wrong...no one loves Christmas any more than I do. I LOVE giving gifts. I love the whole season and every second of magic that comes with it. What is really troubling me is that retailers want consumer dollars spent like crazy in their stores, but YOU'D BETTER NOT MENTION WHY YOU'RE BUYING ALL THIS STUFF!!!!
IT IS CHRISTMAS!!! ENJOY! IT! Remember as a kid just how long it took for Christmas to FINALLY arrive??? It seemed like 20 years! Please wish your friends, neighbors, shop keepers and in fact, everyone you know a MERRY CHRISTMAS! Don't cave in to the "politically correct" rules and regs that they expect us to hold. We are AMERICANS. We celebrate MANY holidays here...but Christians in America spend a LOT of money on the Christmas Holy Day. Don't be taken in by the notion that the TV is portraying. Don't accept that you have to spend your money in a place who doesn't respect why the CHRISTMAS SEASON makes many businesses...or breaks them.
If you want to talk about a "holiday season," to me, that's from Thanksgiving all the way up to Christmas. All this other stuff is hogwash and I'm not participating in it.
Our kids and grandkids deserve the same magic, love, excitement and UNDERSTANDING of the holiday that we had. Our children need to UNDERSTAND what Christmas is, what Christmas means and that is it OKAY to wish anyone you'd like a "MERRY CHRISTMAS!"
I'm just on a rant with all these commercials. I've had it with the media screaming about the economy, begging Americans to spend money, go into debt in the month of December, etc. yet you'd better not let a PEEP be heard about WHY this money they're begging for is being spent! OH NO!! THE "C" WORD! I can only imagine what it's going to be like in a few years. Are they going to ban using the word CHRISTMAS, just as the Ten Commandments have been banned? Makes retailers look like a bunch of hypocrites to me. I heard a lady last night on TV say that if the retailers can't use the word "Christmas" in their stores, she is quite happy NOT to spend her CHRISTMAS DOLLARS ON HER CHRISTMAS GIFTS in their shops. I agree.
MERRY CHRISTMAS TO YOU! I'll probably say that a bunch more times on my posts between now and December 25. *Which by the way is called CHRISTMAS DAY in America.

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I haven't been giving as many "Frieda updates" for many reasons...too many rumors flying, too much negative chatter, etc. I elected to continue doing what I've been doing...which is praying for Frieda, helping Frieda, loving Frieda and reminding her constantly just how much she is loved and missed by so many.
We have had several good visits. I was so overwhelmed with our Thanksgiving visit, that I couldn't even post about it. It was a grand day, it was beautiful outside, so we actually went outside and relished things we all take for granted like FRESH AIR, WARM SUNSHINE, THE BLAZE OF A BIG RED TREE in all it's autumn glory, etc. I realized that Frieda is so communicative with her face, hands, eyes, shoulders, etc. that NOT ONE TIME did I have to even look at her leg to check for "yes" or "no" indications.
Another visit, I gave her a haircut. I'm certainly no cosmetologist, but it was a "have to" situation, so after the hair cut, I washed Frieda's hair. The staff was attentive and got the things that were needed to give her a wonderful, warm, relaxing wash. That visit we stayed for quite a long time. Steve and Jodie DeVera came and visited. Wayne and I left for a while to let them visit with Frieda, as they had not seen her since she was at Craven. They came to Craven, but did not get to see her, so they stayed in the waiting room, praying and offering support from that place. I was SO thrilled that they got to spend time with their dear friend.
After a trip to Walgreens to get some "fun stuff' for Frieda, and a couple of errands, we returned and continued a our visit. Frieda was in high spirits. Geordie was with us, as he has been all of our visits of late. Frieda LOVES rubbing him with her foot and having him get where she can rub him with her hand.
That's kind of a "reader's digest" version of how things have been of late and we couldn't be happier.
Tonight was truly remarkable. When we arrived, the speech therapist who has worked with Frieda at Pitt was there. He was working on having Frieda spell words. When we arrived, he had the letter board and Frieda held a pen. Jeff asked "who is that?" and pointed at me. The pen moved to the "A," then "N," then "N" and by then I was in tears, thanking God and totally amazed.
Frieda spelled out Wayne, Geordie, Oriental, when Jeff asked questions about who they are, where she lived, etc. Jeff asked her what she liked to do for fun and something about Wayne and she spelled out "G-O-L-F!" GOLF! Next, Jeff asked her about her brother and she took the pen and pointed to an "S." Then she began "S-A-N-D-Y." Sandy. I asked her what "his son's name is" and that was the ONLY way it was said..."what is his son's name?" She pointed without hesitation "H-A-N-K." Hank. It was amazing. Jeff asked her to spell her daughter's names and she did the same thing "N-A-N-C-Y" and "J-E-S-S-I-C-A." She was so pleased with herself! Wayne and I were just completely thrilled, overwhelmed and humbled, When asked "Where she would like to be right now" she looked at Wayne and me and spelled "P-O-R-C-H." I was so stunned that words even escape me now. She wanted to be on our porch...and God knows I would give anything if you were sitting right out there with us right now Frieda. Another question Jeff asked was "what do you like to do with Anne?" She spelled "T-A-L-K" We all laughed and she grinned from ear to ear!
After Jeff finished their session, he left to do his paperwork and checked back in later. We talked, visited, held hands, and updated on Frieda on things in our world. She was very engaged and laughed as we share memories, things she had teased me about in the past, etc. It was wonderful. We had been told that cell phones didn't ring in the facility, so I never even take mine inside. Wayne had his phone on his side and out of the clear blue IT RANG!!! It was Sandy Winfrey on the phone...so we put the phone up to Frieda's ear and Sandy got to have a great conversation with his sister! He teased her, he talked to her, he told her he loved her and she was completely engaged. She was over the moon to get to talk on the phone. It got emotional for each of them at points and rightfully so. She was so happy to be talking on the phone to Sandy and it felt normal to her. It was so evident that she was totally loving it, yet a reminder of "how things are." That said, Wayne and I also watched courage and strength gather in Frieda. She knows fully what is ahead and she is totally prepared for every step of it. Although Sandy of course, couldn't "see" it through the phone, she was giving him a thumb's up MANY times as they talked. I like to think that God gave Frieda and Sandy a little miracle in allowing that phone to ring in that room tonight.
I'm still so overwhelmed with all I saw tonight and all I have seen of late, it's very emotional for me to type this all out. Just know that your prayers ARE WORKING. Just know that FRIEDA REMEMBERS and she knows what's ahead, yet she remembers all that she once did and that is what she is determined to get back to. Please continue to have faith in Frieda. Please continue to PRAY for her and love her. She needs to see her friends. She needs to know that all of you out there haven't given up on her.
These things take time. It's emotionally so hard on everyone involved, but the focus needs to remain on helping Frieda. We worked on her hands and shoulders tonight. She LOVED it. She pointed to the word "YES" when I asked if it felt good to move her body. I massaged her feet while she and Wayne simply held hands. She opened her hand to him and motioned for him to take it. It was a priceless time to watch two friends simply loving one another. No words were necessary...and I have learned through this that there are MANY times that words are basically worthless. It's the ACTIONS that carry the most impact.
With that, I will close and just let all these last visits sink in more. It's really hard to fathom at times, yet, I have expected NOTHING else of Frieda Hudson during all of this. Those who know her well have expressed to me that they have felt the exact same way.
You just wait! She'll be back! She knows she lives on BROAD STREET and spelled that out "BROAD." Seeing that let's me know with complete certainty that she doesn't intend to stay in a nursing facility for one second longer than in necessary for her healing and rehabilitation.
Thank you God for continuing to show us all YOUR power and that indeed you do have a plan for Frieda that is far greater than we can even imagine.
Thank you Frieda for continuing to show the world that you're not a quitter.
I'll post another update again in the next few days. Sorry it's been so long...it's just been so emotional and I have wanted to keep our visits and our closeness between us...but I realized tonight that ALL of you who have continued to pray for and support Frieda NEED to know what wonderful things she is doing. Sandy and I talked after we left and he and Karen want you all to know how much your love and support and BELIEF in Frieda's recovery mean to them as well.
KEEP ON KEEPIN' ON FRIEDA!! YOU ARE AMAZING!

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(Here I am...with "HIM!" THE MAESTRO! William Henry Curry and "me." *A huge 'thank you' to Rob Maddrey for arranging for this wonderful meeting.)


(Here I am in the parking lot, along with Buddy. Kelly snapped the SHEER excitement exuding from every cell in my being! We'll call this "ANTICIPATION!")

What a day. What a great big beautiful day...to attend my favorite event of the Christmas Season...the North Carolina Symphony Holiday Pops series. Wayne and I make it a point to attend each year, so this year was no different. Here's the catch...as I mentioned in a previous post, we are huge fans of Resident Conductor William Henry Curry. So, we check the calendar and find out where HE will be and that's the performance we attend. Some folks follow rock groups, reminiscent of "The Grateful Dead and the "Deadheads." Wayne and I follow "The Maestro" William Henry Curry. I can't help it...he's just incredible to watch.
Now mind you, as I have pointed out before, I have no problem admitting that I am a hypocrite. If someone (for some bizarre reason, which I have never understood to this day) asks for a photo or an autograph from me, I am both puzzled and flattered. I'm also a little embarrassed, but I always agree to do it. After all, they buy CD's, they pay for tickets, etc. It's more of an honor than anything. I just always pray that I don't have some crazy, loopy look on my face on a photo for eternity! But, as I rule, I have never asked for anything from "anyone famous" I've ever been around...and I've been in the company of some pretty famous people. I just always felt it was better to just let things be "normal." Sometimes, the "big leaguers" don't like being hassled and interrupted...even if it's your money that makes them celebrities in the first place. (That's called a paradox to me.) Let me digress for a moment to say that in general, it was a stunning day outside. It was a gorgeous drive to Jacksonville. Buddy, Kelly, Jakob, Wayne and myself were happy and ready to roll early. I had fed all the animals and off we went. I am the "anti-musician" and detest being LATE for anything, so we left in plenty of time to allow for anything that could possibly hold us up.
When we arrived, EARLY, we got our tickets and waited outside politely at the car until the doors officially opened. I had met a couple wonderful arts council members when we went to pick up our tickets, so we were outside waiting until we could go in and get our seats. A vehicle pulled up beside us. It was driven by a lady with one of the most beautiful beaming smiles you'd ever see, with about 10 poinsettias that had to go inside! She jumps out and yells HEY!!! I even turned to Wayne and asked if we knew her. No, not at that point we didn't, but within minutes, we were carrying in the plants and talking as hard as we could go! I cannot express how welcomed we felt among these folks. In typical "Annie fashion," I went down front and watched as this charming lady I know now to be Gloria Goodwin moved the massive poinsettias from place to place, making sure they were in JUST the right spot. Another new pal, Lindsay Russell and I assisted by saying "A little to the left, a little to the right" and such. Lindsay and I chatted like old friends as she told me all about the arts council and "who was who" in the set up of everything. As we talked, I was scanning the auditorium and was completely shocked to see two of my favorite people AND neighbors Winston Barnes and Johanne Pryor!!! For a moment, I thought I was seeing things! But, no, there they were! What a treat! Winston said he had seen in a previous post on my blog about attending and they decided to come. I was so glad to see them. Everything felt like pure providence. It was all so nice.
The performance was wonderful, as it always is. North Carolina has a wonderful, incredibly talented symphony. I am always so proud and thrilled anytime I get be in their audience. They give so much back to this state.
I have to admit, Rob Maddrey was the man of the day for me, however. He is an incredibly busy man and I had the (you pick the adjective... nerve, audacity, total leave of my senses...or whatever else you want to call it...) to ask Rob if he could arrange for me to meet "THE MAESTRO!" I couldn't even believe I did it. It's like space aliens took over my brain and I asked him if there was a possibility that we could meet. Long and short....Rob Maddrey did make arrangements for me to meet William Henry Curry. I didn't cry. I didn't totally lose it and start speaking in unknown tongues, I didn't just stand there and stare at him with a blank look. We actually talked. He was SO kind, so warm and so tolerant of "this fan" and I was very grateful for that. I was totally smitten and in love. (Wayne knows it, so it's no big deal..he knows all about it and loves me anyway! hee hee hee!)
Anyway, it was a totally wonderful day and we all NEEDED it. It's been a long hard year. I needed a bit of normal. I needed a good dose of SYMPHONY! I needed to be in the midst of the HOLIDAY spirit! And to top it all off, I met some great folks that run a super tight ship with the Jacksonville Arts Council! KUDOS to all of you for all the behind the scenes work that goes into making things go like clock work.
And in case, by some crazy circumstance Maestro Curry, you ever see my little bitty blog, YOU ROCK! (Can you say that about a symphony? How about an incredible conductor? Well, I guess so. I sure did it anyway!) Heck, I even busted a move and hugged him!
Oh yeah. Annie made a spectacle of herself. She groveled. She mushed. She gushed. She told someone what a HUGE fan of his work she is...and you know what???
If I ever get to meet Conductor William Henry Curry again, I'd do it again too!
I'm having a blast typing this...just so you readers know. The whole OH MY GOD I MET HIM" thing is, well, just not like me so much...but I really cut loose on the Resident Conductor of the North Carolina Symphony today...and I don't feel one bit stupid! :) I'm kind of digging it and I'll still be walking on cloud nine for a few days to come too.
TIS THE SEASON!!! We all should get a little outrageous at Christmas time!
As an aside...MANY thanks to Rob Maddrey (without whom I would not have met...) William Henry Curry, Gloria Goodwin, Lindsay Russell, Mr. Taylor, my buddy John Currie and his wonderful wife Joan, Johanne Pryor and Winston Barnes, Buddy, Kelly, Jakob and Wayne...all of you made this day a truly memorable one, each in your own ways.
I even shocked myself on this one folks. But, OH BOY WAS IT GREAT!
Support the North Carolina Symphony! You won't regret it!
And while we are right in the middle of this wonderful Christmas Season, make sure you are doing wonderful things. Get a little crazy! Color outside the lines! Tell someone you admire just how much you admire them! You know what? "The Maestro" might have been having a bad day himself and he just might have been able to use a little lift. Now, wouldn't THAT be something? We never, ever know what's going on in someone else's life. So don't be chicken. REACH OUT during this Christmas Season, even if it feels silly. Christmas is over so very quickly it seems.
Till next time....
Annie
PS: By the way, then we hit Cracker Barrell, ate like piggies, then went to Marshall's shopping. This was one of those days that was just "RIGHT" all the way around. WOW!
Did we ever need one of those!!!

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Reports indicate that socialite, jet-setter, party girl Martha Myers made it through her first day of being FIFTY. Our sources indicate that her LA pals were snubbed and the step into the fifth decade was kept very local. Paris Hilton, we hear was devastated and checked into rehab again along with Britney Spears and Lindsay Lohan. Publicists for Ms. Hilton commented that there was just simply no way she could have "hung with" The Myers' crowd anyway."
Her "spare no expense" hubby Mean Gene the Dancin' Machine lavished Martha with an all out free for all
RONALD MCDONALD HAPPY MEAL PARTY! It was, of course, by invitation only. Those in attendance seemed to
enjoy the fabulous occasion. Lloyds of London insured the soiree based on the guest list, the types of gifts showered upon Martha and all the extra security measures required to keep the festivities in order.
Homeland Security sent off duty agents to patrol the outer parameters of the McDonald's on Long Beach Road in Southport, NC.
Mrs. Myers was her usual stunning self, crowned and bejeweled from head to toe for the extravaganza. Pictures portrayed Mrs. Myers sporting a particularly fetching pair of blue gloves.
I am quite certain this was THE event for Brunswick County for the year 2007. Wilma Lee Marmadoodle, of Holden Beach, who sadly did not make the guest list was overheard saying, "If you were not in attendance for this event, you are simply a nobody." That's just how the shots are called in the upper echelon of society in Bolivia, North Carolina. Many people came just to be near all the excitement. It was a virtual "WHO'S WHO" of celebs, photogs and fans trying to catch even a slight glimpse of Mrs. Myers as she slid gleefully down the slide into the ball pit of the children's area. No interviews of the guest of honor, nor any of the attendees were granted.
Fox News Channel correspondents were seen trying to get camera shots of the Birthday Queen, however, one federal agent was seen knocking a correspondent to his knees, taking the camera and proceeding to smash it into approximately 1000 tiny pieces. Last reports indicated the cameraman was transported by horse and buggy to Doshier Hospital located in Southport. He is expected to recover with only a few months of rehabilitation.
Paparazzi were lined up and down Long Beach Road and could be seen from Lowe's all the way to the bridge going onto Oak Island. Locals were questioned as to when an event such as this had taken place in Brunswick County. One Varnamtown native replied that he couldn't remember a production this big taking place since his sister/cousin and her husband/uncle got approved for the land/home package back in the 70's. As an aside, they still live there today, according to other members of the same family. "We're a real tight knit clan," the grandpa/great-uncle Clem added. We've been planning to come to town from Varnamtown to try to see any of this for months now! "It's near about as big as openin' day of deer season to us!" Wilma Lee Marmadoodle added, "It's what I'm gittin' my yung'uns for Christmas this year! This is as big as anything I could get at the Wal-mart for 'em!
It was quite an occasion. From early reports, a good time was had by all.
More news to follow as our special undercover McDonald's employees reveal more information, for a fee, of course. We are not ashamed to pay for information when an affair as big as this takes place in our humble community! After all, The Myers' could have gone to Wilmington, but they chose to stay within the confines of Brunswick county making for an thrilling night we could all be proud of. We plan to stake out by the Myers Estate to try and see how quickly Mrs. Myers recovers from this gala event. We expect to get more photos to publish tomorrow. Hopefully, they will be along the lines of the now famous 'Mike Nifong dressed in his robe and slippers' pictures. Rumor has it that entertainment was provided by the world famous women's dance troupe called OLDBATS (Old Ladies Doin' Bootyshakin' After Turning Seventy). According to inside sources, the performance was truly a sight to behold.
More info as it comes across the wire...
HAPPY BIRTHDAY MARTHA!!! WE LOVE YOU!!!!

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I'm having coffee this morning, looking at a gray day and thinking of snow...not that we will get any, mind you. But, it's OK to dream! Yes! It is.
Oh and by the way...just as the picture proves, I DO know Santa. I know him well...and yes I BELIEVE! I've known him literally since I was born, so I've been busy trying to make sure to get things all sorted and corrected since time is drawing nigh for the annual visit! I hope you're doing the same!!! HE IS REAL!! AND HERE IS PROOF!!!
I just happened to see that the last post was number 99 and found it interesting in some odd way that those of us who blog talk about everything and nothing. We share information, give information, share our joys, celebrations, sadness and all points in between with those we know and those we don't.
This year is coming to a close. 2007. Like everyone else, it didn't turn out exactly as I had planned for many reasons, but I'm here and ready to give 2008 a shot. I don't do resolutions. In fact, I RESOLVE not to! So, I guess I do one resolution. I just try to keep it between the lines and keep moving forward.
I've had some "Griswold type events" (think Christmas Vacation/Chevy Chase) happening since trying to decorate, etc. I thoroughly checked all the lights for the outside. Yep, they all worked. The I carefully strung them among the garland and having a ball doing so. I even got out the great big 8 foot monster Santa...and as an aside, Marah DETESTS him! That's why he goes up every year. Mom's can just do that.
Well, I'm back...the rest of the day has passed. After taking apart the lights that ONCE worked and then didn't when I actually put them up, replacing those, replacing fuses in my massive Santa, ALL IS LIT UP! I LOVE IT! IT'S ALL UP AND WAITING FOR YOU MARAH!
I was thinking today, as we all do this time of year about Christmas memories. The least expected surprises are best! Specifically, I heard from two of my dear friends Mattie and Marti. We had some of the most wonderful times together. We grew together, we laughed together, we had great times. Mattie was telling her daughter about some of our times together and she googled me, next thing you know, WE ARE IN TOUCH! So, we've been emailing, sending pictures, remembering things together and probably most of all, realizing how life moves forward and doesn't wait for us. Even though time has passed, there are still fundamental things that do not change about old and dear friendships. Our memories hold us cemented and bound together always...no matter what else in our lives changes WE HAVE OUR MEMORIES and we can savor them and hold them close to our hearts. Mattie and Marti, THANK YOU so much for getting in touch! I have been so thrilled to hear from you! I can't believe YOU TWO actually have KIDS! That's just something else! Of course, I can't believe that we're not all 25 and 30 anymore either. How did that happen? The consensus? We are all happy. We are all living our lives according to our own plans and we still have the love and friendship in our hearts that will carry us always. That is just great to me.
At Christmas time, we celebrate, we remember, we start to hope for things we'd like to see happen in the coming year and we draw closer to family and friends at this time of year more than any other. That is a beautiful thing. We start the year celebrating and end it with a love and reverence for what the previous year has shown us.
We will be going to Jacksonville to the NC Symphony on Sunday. The Holiday Pops will be there for a 3pm matinee. I LOVE WILLIAM HENRY CURRY!!! I LOVE HIM! I DO! So, at Holiday Pops time, where ever "the maestro" is, THERE I'LL BE!!! It's just a wonderful part of our Christmas tradition.
Marah is finishing up the semester and getting ready to start exams. So, she's covered up. I get quick IM's from her, quick phone calls and that's just how it is this time of year for college kids. I can't wait to for her and Kevin to come home and we can BAKE!!!
All the sights, sounds, memories, traditions and magic of Christmas are priceless! Don't let them slip by unnoticed. CELEBRATE! CELEBRATE! CELEBRATE!!!

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