Spring Sprang

 

Mom

March 31, 1941 - May 4, 2025

 

 I Bid You Goodnight

Lay down my dear Mother, lay down and take your rest
I want to lay your head upon your Savior's breast
I love you, but Jesus loves you best
I bid you goodnight, goodnight, goodnight
I bid you goodnight, goodnight, goodnight

 

Aaron Neville 

 

We lost Mom at the beginning of last month. I haven't really been able to focus on anything special, but it's time to look forward. The truth is, her mind was mostly gone the last month or two. She didn't recognize anyone completely. Each visit was as if you were a new acquaintance. She would smile and greet you, but the look in her eyes was "I'm glad you've come, but who the heck are you?" Made things interesting! The last few weeks she just wanted to sleep, and would fall out of bed often. It was hard to watch, but the nursing and care staff at the home were so gentle and helpful and positive with her. They really helped make her last days more peaceful.

 

I have been in contact with the attorney, and we are starting on the probate journey. I found an Excel template (free!) that should help me keep all of the moving parts flowing smoothly, and provide complete documentation as we work through the process.

 

The grandgirls are nearly through with the softball season. Ronnie and I have attended several games so far, and Ronnie goes on his own when I'm not there (sometimes - depends on farmwork). They seem to be doing pretty well. Alyssa has moved up to the next level, when they have player pitch fast ball. Cara is still in the coach pitch league, but they both have fun. I'm hoping to have them up to the apartment this month, or at least meet them at the Missouri History Museum or the St. Louis Science Center. There are great exhibits at both. The Science Center is featuring a Pompeii showing - I have been to one previously, but this one is supposed to be updated with new things added. Cara is skipping a grade, and Anna is hoping to encourage more learning over the summer so she won't miss out on the history part. 

 

We finally have a front door on the house!! And the French doors that open off the dining room. Daniel and Dwayne came to help Ronnie install them - they were so heavy there is no way Ronnie and I could have done it on our own. Yes, the little speakeasy door is hinged. Last weekend we put a couple coats of clear finish on, and will probably add another one or two coats. The finish really brought out the grain, but didn't really add any stain, just the natural goodness shows through. Next is the bathroom floor!

 

 

 I am taking a more forward role as head cashier. It's mostly rote, but I sure do enjoy the customers. And boy do I get my steps in on the days I work!! 

Projects

Because of everything going on, I haven't done much. I did start a navy cotton pullover, but had to rip out and begin again (ugh). Other than that, I am still plugging away on the Northeasterly Blanket. It doesn't require any thought and it has been my drag along bag to the farm. Another couple of strips and I will see if it warrants any more. 

 

I also made a camp shirt for Cade (Daniel's girlfriend's little boy). Dinosaurs!! I had enough to make a sundress for her daughter Caroline, but it isn't quite finished yet. I cut it out and got the main part sewn, but the contrast bias binding needs to be stitched down and I couldn't find ANY red thread. How did that happen?? Also need a couple of buttons, but should be able to dig some out of my button tin.

 

 Oh yeah, and I knitted a lace baby dress for Sandi, one of the knit group ladies. Her daughter is due any day now. The dress lacks a button, and if I feel like it, some embroidered rosebuds in some of the lace motifs.