79 years...

My grandmother turned 79 years old yesterday and they held a surprise birthday party for her at church. Many members of the family were there, along with other people that she has cared for, in one way or another.

Mamaw has been a grandmother to me and many other kids from the area. She was always ready with a spoonful of Dimeatapp or Vicks 44 when she heard a sniffle or cough...whether it was her kid or not...:)

She always knew what always made me feel better...a cup of chicken noodle soup... a homemade roll or cookie...or just a hug.

After leaving her party yesterday evening, I started thinking...She has done so much for people around her. Have I shown the compassion to others that she has? I don't know, but I will try to be and try to make her proud. In 79 years, I could not even name (or count) the number of people that she has helped. Just as our minister said yesterday while blessing the food, he was giving thanks for my grandmother and all that she has done for so many.

Our church has a free luncheon every Wednesday. My grandmother is always in the kitchen with the other ladies from the church cookin' up something good for the guests. She's always in the kitchen...period! Always cookin' up something tasty!

And now as I am writing this about her...I am beginning to understand...

It is strange how simple things can make you realize complex concepts! My grandmother didn't go to college...didn't finish high school. She helped run her family's business...She raised a group of great kids (and some good grandkids :))...She provides warm meals to many people...has reached out to many in a variety of ways. Sometimes I want to be "somebody" and fantasize about being famous or "well-known". I have been reminded of what is important. It's not that you are "somebody" to the masses, it's that you are a "friend" to a few. My grandmother is someone and a friend...she's someone to ME and all of the other lives that she has touched.

My mamaw is still teaching me things all the time. I just hope she knows how much I've learned from her and how grateful I am to have her in my life.

I just pray that I will have her in my life for a while longer....And I know that it is unreasonable, but I hope she's around for another 79 years. :)

It's been crazy 'round here!

I know, I know...I have posted anything in so long. So, to get you up to speed, I'll fill you in.

First of all, work has been crazy...getting ready for a huge event!!! Also, my husband has been working really long hours and I feel that I haven't seen him much lately.

I have also been really busy with meetings and events for the March of Dimes. I serve on the WV Chapter Board of Directors, a few planning committees, and the Chair of the Communications Committee. So, with it being special event season as well as getting ready for Prematurity Awareness Month (which starts tomorrow, Nov. 1), we have definitely been busy. For more info on the March of Dimes, visit the website at www.marchofdimes.com. One out of every eight babies born in the US are born prematurely and one out of every seven babies in WV are born prematurely. Prematurity is the leading cause of death in babies. To find out more or how you can help, visit the website provided above.

Also, I have started selling Mary Kay Cosmetics. I love it! I have been selling since the end of July and it is helping me to stay busy. :) (If you would like to book a party or to place an order, email me. Also, you can order online, email me for the website address.)

So, now that I've filled you in with what has been going on....what's been going on with you? I know that everyone seems to be very busy right now....it's always a busy time of the year. I just can't imagine how busy it will be during the holidays....I have not even thought about the holiday gift giving yet....Have you?

I hope you are all doing well...I'd love to hear you share your "current events".

Jen :)