Life on Coltrane Mill

Christmas Eve and Christmas Day 2009

2009-12-26T14:38:00.007-05:00

Our celebration of Christmas began at The S&S House in Archdale. Thank you to Sherman and Sandy for hosting our family get-together on Christmas Eve. With Jenny and Family in SC with The Depps, with Matt B in Apex with Kristen's family, The Vasbinders, we had one child home with us, Adam! He worked in Boone on Christmas Eve, but drove down the mountain in time to join us at my brother's home. Sandy's family was there also and it was great to see Mike, Peggy and their children.

Brandon (Mike & Peggy's son), Sherri, Savannah (Brandon's

daughter), Tommy and Sherman. Lots of wonderful, delicious

food...and desserts!!!

Belle had a good time too! She's such a sweet dog!

Kit and Adam waiting on my laptop to work correctly so

that we could watch "the elfing" video clips!

Sherri is cleaning up. Sherman and Gladys Ann are in

conversation. So happy that GA could be with us this year.

Sandy and Peggy having conversation. Great to see Peggy

once again. Peggy and Mike graduated from HS with me.

We were Bulldogs together!!!

Sherri cleaning up again...she usually has a smile on her face!

Christmas Day! Adam went to Melissa's for a wonderful

breakfast with her family. Kit and I ate the can of 8 cinnamon

rolls all by ourselves! Thanks for fixing them Kit! We enjoyed

a skype videocall with Matt, Kristen and Turner! We put the

food together and traveled in the pouring rain to Julie and Joel's

house for The Boones to be together. We love that Jenny

called during lunch to say Merry Christmas!

The food was great, as usual! Here we have Emily, Bryson,

Katie and Jodie posing on the couch. I'm so blessed with 4

beautiful, inside & out, nieces!! We love our great nephew,

Bryson, too! Background folks are Marilyn, Adam & Kit. I

think that is Jay & Paul on the left.

Emily and Bryson live in Alabama now. We were blessed

that Doug was able to come home for a few days from

serving in the Army in Afghanistan. It was great to see all

3 of them!

Doug, Jay and Paul - Three great guys!

Kit is playing with Bryson's Transformer gun...dangerous!

Marilyn and Ron - love them!

Emily and Doug - love them too!

Adam tries to help his Dad with Bryson's gun!!!

Opening presents! Of course, Bryson got the most and

he should! He was our only grandchild present on this day

as the others were with their other grandparents having

fun! It was a good Christmas Eve and Day with family. We

are so blessed!

Celebrating Christmas 2009 - At the Beach!

2009-12-26T13:25:00.017-05:00

Our immediate family headed to the beach the weekend of Dec. 18th. It was the year for the inlaws to have my children for Christmas Day. So we went back to the wonderful beach house that we were in last Jan. for our Beach Christmas!

Adam and Melissa with Kit and I to Apex to meet up with Matt B and Kristen. Jenny and Matt D. followed us in their van. As the 3 vehicles caravaned to the beach, Addi joined us in our car. As you can see, everyone in the back seat fell asleep on the way! Above you see Addi and Melissa. Below is Addi and Adam.

Here's the beach house that we love! Last Jan., there was a beach across the street. There has been so much erosion, that huge rocks have been put into place to slow it down. No beach to walk on here, but some beach down the street that was walkable. Amazing how powerful the ocean can be!
We decorated the area around the fireplace to make it more Chrismasy. Putting out all of the presents was fun too.
Each child had a snowflake with their name. They liked that!

This was our Christmas Day morning at breakfast. Jenny and Matt D made us a pancake breakfast with homemade syrup! YUM!!! Jenny is a great cook! Our tradition is to have canned cinnamon rolls on Christmas morning, so those were made also.

Here's Jenny working on the pancakes. She's a great cook!

She must have gotten it from both of her grandmothers, not

her own mom!!

Melissa and Adam enjoying their breakfast. Melissa is a

great cook also. So is Kristen! I guess I just lost my desire,

or maybe I never had it to begin with!!!

Maddox is our biggest pancake eater! I don't know how

many he ate this morning, but he and Uncle Adam had a

competition going on as to who could eat the most. Our

Maddox won!!!!

Turner enjoyed the pancakes also! No syrup though! Poor

little guy, he had a cold w/a cough during our Christmas

weekend. But he was still so good natured.

I don't think that Cyrus had any pancakes, but he was still

such a happy boy in his Christmas suit!

Addi enjoyed helping Uncle Adam give out the presents!

Uncle Adam enjoys giving out the gifts so that he can look

for the ones with his name on them!!!!

Cyrus enjoyed part of the gift opening, but then had to

take a nap.

This was the quietest that we had seen Maddox! He just

sat still as his presents began to surround him!

Turner got a big gift and decided that he needed to see

what was inside!!!

Grandad Kit waiting patiently until it was his turn to

unwrap a gift. We take turns opening one gift at a time

beginning with the youngest to the oldest...oldest was Kit!

Ah!! That big box was Turner's lawnmower!

It was hard to get a good pic of Addi so that it wasn't blurry!

She's always on the move!

Matt D playing with Addi and Cyrus

Matt B, Kristen and Turner...looking serious! A rare moment

during this family weekend!

Maddox loved putting his ABC Train puzzle together!

We all loved our gifts from one another. Great morning!

Pic from the top floor of our house. Friday evening, we left

snow behind in Greensboro. Only harsh, cold, rainy winds

at the beach. Rain stopped on Saturday morning, but there

were still gray skies most of the day with peaks of the sun.

See how close the water is to the beachfront homes! There

were surfers out there in the water for most of the day.

The dolphins were swimming up close also.

Saturday late afternoon...peak of sunshine on the beach

in the distance. This area down from us still has some beach.

Thank goodness!

Uncle Matt, Aunt Kristen with Turner B, Addi and Maddox

Lunch was delicious with sweet potato casserole, corn casserole

stewed apples and a veggie dip tray that the ladies each

prepared. Then dinner was steak, baked potatoes and salad.

Here is Adam cleaning up after the meal.

Sunday morning was sunshiny and glorious...but still cold!

Addi and Maddox posing in front of the big rocks on the beach.

Beautiful blue everywhere! Watching the waves splash

upon the rocks. This was a little splash. Some were so big

that you had to run back or get really wet!

Big splash was missed by my camera...or by me using the

camera!

Grandad, Gran, Maddox and Addi making memories.

Obviously, with all of these pics, the waves splashing was

interesting to us!

Adam and Melissa - love them!

Stay there Adam. We'll let you know if a big wave is coming

so that you can get away, not get wet!!!!!

We had a great time together as a family. We are so blessed

to have one another, to be together and make lots of great

memories. Thank you kids for a great weekend!

Maddox's Birthday - December 8th, 2009

2009-12-26T13:09:00.003-05:00

Jenny, Matt, Addi, Maddox & Cyrus arrived in Greensboro

on the night of December 5th! They are here for 6 months

and living in Mom's house in Trinity. The house is now

quite different with 3 little youngins running around!! I

can see Mom and Dad smiling about that!

We celebrated Maddox's birthday several times! His

birthday is Dec. 8th, so Kit and I had dinner with The Depps

and opened presents. Then we celebrated again on the

following Saturday as The SC Depps arrived in Trinity to

visit. Maddox loved the Thomas Train set that they gave

him.

He loved the chocolate cake that Jenny made him too!

Cyrus is such a good baby! Easy-going and happy most

of the time. Here, he enjoyed Aunt Elisabeth holding him.

December 26, 2009

2009-12-26T12:45:00.003-05:00

It is the day after Christmas Day, still holiday time. We have the New Year's arrival yet to celebrate. 2009 is full of so many memories, good ones, those that stir up my emotions, and make me so sad. I haven't blogged since July due to numerous reasons, but mostly, I didn't feel like I could do it. With the death of Dad in February, the death of Mom in June, I've become such a changed person, and it hasn't been for the best either. We also lost Mr. and Mrs. Clark this year, our wonderful neighbors when we lived in Ramseur. I had to put down a pet for the first time ever. Micala had gotten too ornery and hard to handle. There have been so many happy episodes in 2009, especially with the birth of our fourth grandchild, Cyrus. But since June 14th, I have for the most part, lived in a state of melancholy. God has always richly blessed me and I'm so grateful. I know also that he has continued to hold me, staying right by my side. I cling to Him knowing that He is the answer to my sad state of mind. Dad and I had a special relationship and I miss him so much, miss caring for him. But he had several diseases working against his 90 year old existence. He had been blind for 20 years. I know that he has a new body and can see once again now. Praises to you Lord! Oh how I miss giggling with my precious Mom. I miss our conversations, her presence in my earthly life. What a loving woman she was and cared about everyone. She was loved and respected by so many too. Maybe I'm turning a corner today in recognizing that life goes on, that Mom and Dad would not want me to continue in this melancholy state of mind. So today, I will begin blogging once again. I am so behind and will not try to catch up with everything that has happened since June. But I will hit the highlights and things may not be in the order that they happened! I'll begin with Christmas in my next post. But this one is dedicated to Mom and Dad. Love you both so much and I'm thankful for the life that you provided for me. Things weren't always happy, but you did the best that you could to help me to grow into the woman that I am. I hope that you are still proud of who I am and what I've accomplished. Miss you both, but it gives my heart joy to know that you are smiling in heaven with Jesus.

Mom and Dad at my house Christmas Day 2007

Mom and I at The Gaither Concert in April 2009

Turner Visits! Daisy Has a New Home!

2009-07-12T18:46:00.007-04:00

Turner Time!!!! On Saturday, July 11 we drove to Apex,
to Matt and Kristen's to pick up Turner Bee!! After
visiting for a bit, we loaded Turner and everything we
needed for him. We headed back to Greensboro to our
house. Turner slept most of the way! He's a good boy!

Here's Turner Bee playing with some baby size Tonkas.

Daisy welcomed Turner to our house. She became a

curiosity for Turner! As he approached her, she just ran

away! Then she would come back because Turner was

a curiosity for her too!

"Plenty of toys to play with, but mmm, these magazines

look like more fun! Let's see how many I can drag out

before Gran or Grandad stop me."

"Guess what? It doesn't matter how many magazines I

pull out! Gran and Grandad do not care!!!"

Turner is crawling and pulling up now. "I wonder what

is in this big box?"

"I like this plastic Turkish Air plane! It is light and I can

wave it around, hitting things with it, and chew on it!"

"Why is this dog singing? Chloe doesn't sing. This is

interesting!" Once the dog stopped singing "My Girl",

Turner felt it necessary to give the dog a pat on the head.

"Good job, doggie. Good job!!"

Petting the doggie!

Turner's crawl isn't the normal kind, but he can move

around, get wherever he wants to go...quickly!

We went to worship at church on Sunday morning. Turner

was wonderful! He enjoyed his water and Cheerios! Turner

loves to play ball. He and Grandad tossed the ball back and

forth. We think the boy is going to be left-handed!!!!

After shooting some hoops, Turner tries to determine

what we can do next.

What a sweet, precious face! One that makes Gran

and Grandad melt...and do whatever Turner wants!

Turner pulled up holding onto Grandad's foot!!!

Turner and Grandad! Big pals. We met Matt and Kristen

in Pittsboro and had a milkshake at Hardee's before giving

Turner back to his parents. We were sad about it, but

he does belong to them! And we know that we will get to

enjoy him again sometime soon. :-)

Mary Ann and Daisy - She's a sweetie!

Daisy has specific markings and isn't any special breed of

cat. She has lots of white fur as you can see in the picture.

But her other markings are stripes that are black, gray

and some brown. She has big green eyes.

Daisy turned her head as I took the picture! I was trying

to get her face forward. She just didn't want to cooperate!

We don't know how long we will have Daisy with us. She

is 18 years old already. She was Dad's baby at one time,

then became Mom's baby and now, she is mine. Sadly,

I had to have Mikala put to sleep. She was 17 years old,

grumpy, dangerous in that she would bite, scratch and hiss

at people. We could not have her hurting the grandchildren.

I probably should have had her put down long before now.

May Mikala Rest in Peace and enjoy Kitty Heaven. :-)

Another Boone Family Dinner - 7-3-09

2009-07-05T15:01:00.005-04:00

We had another great Boone Family dinner on Friday night,
July 3rd. Bryson has been in High Point with Marilyn
and Ron for several weeks, enjoying the summer with
his friends. Emily drove to town on Friday from Alabama!
We were all happy to see her too. Emily had chosen
Pavilion for our dinner outing, but once there, it was
discovered that it was closed. So we went to Elizabeth's
instead. It is one of our favorites and is always good.

Emily and Bryson...we all continue to pray for Doug who

is stationed in Afghanistan at this time. Bryson and Emily

get a phone call from him everyday. That is so wonderful!

Remembering and praying for you, Doug. Thank you, for

your brave service to preserve not only our freedom, but

helping to establish freedom around the world.

Left to right...Joel, Jodie, Paul and Jay

Marilyn and Ron...We had some really good pizza!

Julie and Joel...she really does not like for her picture to

be taken! Sorry Julie, but we cannot leave you out!

Kit and Mary Ann...full of salad and pizza...happy!

Our Bryson, one very special young man, who looks and

acts so much like his father, Doug. A blessed young man!

Katie, Bryson and Jodie...what a good-looking group!

And here is the whole gang for the night...but not all of our

family of course. None of our children could attend. :-(

Maybe next time! We had a great dinner, great time talking

and getting caught up with one another. Katie and Jay have

moved into a new house!!! The Isley Family headed to the

beach the next day for a week. I know they are there

now having fun. (In the picture, so sorry Jay, but you are

hidden. And Joel, we are missing part of you too. We'll

have to do better next time!) Love you all.

Fun at the Beach in June!

2009-07-02T18:07:00.008-04:00

Thank you so much to my friend, Betty, and her two
young, beautiful daughters, for inviting me to go with
them to the beach June 23-26. It was great timing for
me to get away, relax, have fun and deal with the recent
loss of Mom. We had a great time on the beach in the
sun and attending two great shows at night.

Here is the beachside view of The Avista where we stayed.

These two lovely ladies were amazed at all the "towel art"

in their room and bathroom! Someone working for the

hotel had some extra time obviously!!!

Swans making a heart and little ducks were everywhere!

The peacock in the bathroom...

The "artwork" extended to the shower curtain! Betty,

Ashley, Carly and I had some good laughs upon entering

our condo. Actually, someone really did have some talent

or classes in how to turn the towels and washclothes into

birds. :-)

Part of the view from our balcony on the 14th floor...

Another view from the balcony...

There were plenty of people at the beach this week.

Looking down at the various pools and lazy river. We didn't

enjoy the pool this time in that it was always too crowded.

But they sure played some great oldies music!

On Tuesday night, we attended our first show, Legends.

The entertainers impersonated Tim McGraw, Donna

Summers, Elton John, The Blues Brothers and ELVIS!

They were all great and we thoroughly enjoyed the music.

After the show, the entertainers came out for pictures.

Here I am with 'Elvis'! I'm sure that my children will be

so proud of this picture!!!!

The best act of all was The Blues Brothers!!! During one

of their songs, Jake, the one to the left of me above, came

out into the audience. He sang to various people who had

an aisle seat, including me. He knelt down, put his arm

around me and gave me a kiss on the cheek...a sweaty kiss!

But it was funny!!! We laughed and laughed during all of

their songs as they danced just like Jake and Elwood in

the movie.

After a day in the sun on Wednesday, we headed to The

Alabama Theater for our second show, ONE. We saw it

last year also and it was great. It was super this year also.

The show consists of music through the eras of time: 50s,

60s, 70s, 80s and 90s. The singers, dancers, instrumentalists

are so talented for this production. It is amazing!

Greg Rowles (right) is the host for the show. He can sing,

play several instruments and has a great sense of humor too.

The lighting for every performance was terrific.

These dancers were great as they danced for many songs.

This was a tap dance performance and I loved that so much.

I took tap when I was a little girl, but I never got to this level

of the dancing!

Mary Poppins flew across the theater above us, then

landed on the stage. She and Bert sang several songs

together along with the dancers performing as the

chimney sweepers. JENNY, this post is just for you as

we all recall watching and listening to Mary Poppins over

and over when you were younger!!! Love you!

Ricky Mokul - Such a hilarious comedian! Actually, his

name is Grant Turner.

More great music and dancing!

Loved this singer and her sequined dress!

The dancers not only dance their feet off, but are very

talented in the acrobatic area also. This one hung over us

and did all kinds of twists and turns!

Back on the beach on Thursday, I played with my camera!

Many individuals and families rented cycles to ride on the

beach. It looked like fun, but lots of work.

The ocean was calm while we were there. It was hot, but

thank goodness for a gentle breeze.

My precious friends enjoying the sun and surf.

We enjoyed the waves and sand. Of course, we left with

regret, but knew that we would have to return sometime

again soon. I never get enough time at the beach. :-)

Jenny's Last Days in the States

2009-07-02T12:52:00.007-04:00

Jenny could only be home with us for ten days. After
Mom's sickness and passing away, we knew that she
would be returning to Turkey on Saturday, June 20th.
On Friday after Mom's funeral, Matt and Turner returned
to Greensboro to have more time with Jenny and Cyrus.
We went to dinner at a favorite place, Tex and Shirley's.

Jenny is waiting on her pancakes! We missed Kristen, but

she was home with a friend and her two little ones who

were visiting from out of state.

Turner waited patiently for his pancakes too!

When they didn't come soon enough, the spoon became

a toy!

Then the toy keys! Where are my pancakes???? Our food

did arrive and we were ready. Turner had his first taste of

a pancake...without butter and syrup of course. He loved

the little pancake that his Dad shared with him.

Kit, Matt and Cyrus. Uncle Matt had to get in as much

holding time as possible with his newest nephew.

And Aunt Jenny had to get in her time with Turner too.

On the way back to our house, Turner just couldn't stay

awake. Look at those little feet crossed!

But Cyrus was wide awake!

Until the next day's trip to RDU, the airport. He slept

all the way there. And I enjoyed sitting in the back seat

with him!

Uncle Matt joined us at the airport too. As Jenny checked

in with Cyrus, the clerk offered Kit, Matt and I passes to

go to the gate with them. We were surprised, but very

happy about it. Here Uncle Matt, Grandad and Cyrus sit

as we awaited boarding time for the two Depps.

Uncle Matt and Cyrus...Turner nor Kristen could come

today. Turner had a birthday party to attend!

What a cute little baby boy!!! He was awake and ready

to board the plane for the long flight back to Turkey. He

missed his Dad, sister Addi and brother Maddox.

Grandad had to get his last holding of Cyrus in before

they called for the departure.

Jenny and Matt...They get along so much better now that

they are adults!!! We are blessed that all three of our

children get along so well.

Jenny, Matt, Kit and Cyrus at the airport.

Of course, Jenny suggested that Gran get into the picture

too. I usually get left out because I am usually taking the

pictures!!!

Gran and Grandad in their last moments with Cyrus. It

was an emotional time. But letting them go was easier

knowing that they will be returning for their 6 month

stateside in early December! AND most importantly, it

was only right for Jenny and Cyrus to return to their

family in Istanbul. I know that they were ready for Mom

and Baby Cyrus to get back home with them. Home really

is being with your loved ones, your family, no matter where

that may be.

Back in The States...Then Jenny Had to Go

2009-07-02T00:26:00.011-04:00

Once Jenny, Cyrus and I landed at RDU, we were
greeted by Kit, Matt and Marilyn. Prior to Mom
having a stroke, Kit fell from a ladder, broke his
elbow, had surgery and his wonderful sister,
Marilyn, took wonderful care of him. She and Julie
brought him food too. Gladys Ann brought Mom
to see him and brought food also. I was in Istanbul,
but our family took care of Kit, especially Marilyn.
So Marilyn drove Kit to pick us up in Raleigh. Matt
met us at the airport bringing an infant car seat for
Cyrus. How blessed we are with our family!

During the 10 days that Jenny was here in the States, she

was a busy woman. I was at the hospital and then Hospice

Home with Mom in a coma most of the time. Jenny cooked,

cleaned and drove her Dad to the see Mamaw, to the doctor

and anywhere else needed. God blessed us with Jenny

being able to come home with me. I don't know how we

would have functioned without her. Here she is on the

Cub Cadet mowing the yard since Kit was disabled.

We visited Mamaw at the hospital as soon as we could get

there on Wednesday morning. As we allowed her to hold

Cy's little arm, she squeezed it. We told her about him,

talked to her about many things. At that time, she was

able to squeeze our hands as a response. I was so thankful

for that. We would ask her to try to open her eyes too. She

couldn't open them, but as she raised her eyebrows, we knew

that she was trying. So I know that initially, Mom could

hear us, tried to communicate. So I know that she was

happy to at least touch Cyrus, her newest great grandson.

Grandad and Gran holding their youngest grandson, Cy.

Matt, Kristen and Turner visited Mamaw at Hospice Home

on Saturday afternoon. Turner enjoyed his dinner sitting

on the floor!

Turner in action as he enjoys his dinner! A little later, our

family enjoyed delicious lasagna and salad that Emily, our

niece, prepared. Marilyn and Julie also contributed to the

meal. Marilyn, Ron, Emily, Julie, Joel, Sherman, Sandy,

Matt, Kristen, Turner, Jenny, Cyrus, Kit and I enjoyed

quality time together using the kitchen/dining area of

Hospice Home of High Point. Thank you family.

Once Adam, Melissa and Kiya arrived a few days later, they

had fun watching six cows take over our yard! Somehow

they got loose and enjoy eating whatever they could find

in our poor garden.

Turner in his PJs, ready to make the ride home to Apex.

What beautiful, big, brown eyes!!!

Here's proof...Turner started crawling during Mamaw's

sickness and death. We needed a positive, something so

sweet and loving, to occur during our sadness. God blesses

us with precious children to help warm our hearts!

Uncle Adam holding Cyrus. He didn't expect to see his

new nephew so soon. He was happy to get to meet him.

Cafe Romantika in Istanbul

2009-07-01T23:34:00.007-04:00

It was Monday night, June 8th, in the old historical city
of Istanbul. And a special group of American women
along with one tiny baby boy, packed themselves tightly
in a mini-van in order to travel across the city to enjoy
a beautiful, fun evening at Cafe Romantika. Wewere
honoring one special woman who would be returning
to the States very soon, then moving to another part of
the world after living in Istanbul for the last six years
with her beautiful family. I was honored to be a part of
Jenny's special group of friends. Dinner at this restaurant
was nothing like some of us have ever experienced.

Cafe Romantika was located within a beautiful park in the

city of Istanbul along the waterfront of the Bosphorus Strait.

As we walked the path to the restaurant, we spotted these

kittens. Remember, we were in Turkey and cats are very

special to everyone there...and cats are all

over the place in abundance!

The front of the restaurant...the ladies entering.

Look at the beautiful glass chandeliers inside the Cafe.

But we chose to eat outside on the waterfront so we could

enjoy the view!

A special gift for a special lady! Love the shoes!!!

There were ten of us and Cyrus. I love my daughter's friends!

Enjoying delicious food!

One of the views across the water...

In the distance you can see The Prince's Islands.

Jenny and I enjoyed our veggie crepes. Mmmmmm!

I enjoyed holding Cy more than the food!!!

One of his little yawns!

Look at those precious little hands!

Wide open, dark blue eyes...what a great picture of Cyrus!

One of many 'aunts' who love holding Cyrus.

As the sun went down, the breeze on the

waterfront grew cooler. So blankets were

provided by the Cafe. Here Cy is wrapped

up in one to keep him warm!

The sun set...the clouds moved with the breeze...it was

an enchanting evening...little did Jenny and I know that

this evening would turn into my last evening in Istanbul.

We went to Starbuck's for coffee and cheesecake after

leaving Cafe Romantika. On our way to the van, Matt

called Jenny to say that when we got home, I was to call

Kit. We didn't think anything about that in that I had not

had my usual phone chat with him that day. Once we

got back to Jenny's apartment, we made the call. Then

we heard the bad news that Mom had had a mid-brain

stroke that was fatal. I had to fly home quickly, and Jenny

said that she and Cyrus would fly with me. I was thankful

to not be flying for hours by myself. I have a wonderful

son-in-law. He quickly got on the computer to make

arrangements for our flight home. He unselfishly said okay

for his wife and newborn son to leave him with a 3 year old

and a 4 year old, so that she could be with her mother, who

needed her so much. Thank you Matt for being the man,

the husband, the father that you are. I thank God for you!

Going Back in Time...

2009-07-01T23:03:00.007-04:00

Okay, let's go back to Sunday, June 7th in Istanbul. That

special afternoon, Cyrus had a party, a baby shower party

that was supposed to have happened on May 17th. But

Cyrus was born on May 17th, therefore neither Cy nor

his mommy could attend the party that day!!! So it was

rescheduled for this special Sunday afternoon.

Many special women friends of Jenny's gathered in the

apartment that day.

More special friends...

The girls were happy looking at pictures. What a special

group of beautiful girls. Love them!

Addi didn't have to take a nap on this afternoon due to

the party. She looks tired here, but once the other little

girls arrived, she came alive having a good time. She wore

her special skirt just for the party! She's so cute!

Addi and her friend, Shiloh, were amazed by the 'baby

confetti' on the food table.

Anna Claire and Shiloh resting after playing hard. Shiloh

is small in stature and fit perfectly in Cy's little seat!

The girls and Maddox looking at pictures on the camera.

So many special friends!

The delicious baby shower cake beautifully decorated.

Mmmmmm!

Lots of delicious snacks were provided. Love that dip!

Lots of presents were unwrapped too!

Jen loved the baby afghan that I had crocheted for Cyrus.

Addi and Maddox loved doing the Hokie Pokie!

And Cyrus slept throughout the entire party...just as he

should do! What a good baby!

After the Funeral with Family

2009-07-01T22:01:00.009-04:00

After Mom's funeral and the service at the cemetery,

we returned to Sherman and Sandy's home. It was our

base during the days after Mom's death. I was thankful

that Sandy offered their home for this and it was a

perfect place for family and friends to gather. With the

beautiful new kitchen that my brother remodeled, we

gathered together to eat, remember, laugh, and enjoy

our family and friends.

My precious niece, Sherri, and my beautiful sister-in-law,

Sandy, are two very special people in my life. I'm so blessed.

Kristen wanted to make sure that I was included in all

the pictures. Usually I'm taking them, so there aren't

pics of me! Thank you K! Love you bunches.

Maria and her four precious children came by the house.

She's Sherri's best friend and has been for a long time.

We ate and ate, especially the wonderful desserts. Here

Kit, Melissa and Adam have just had more dessert!

Kit has a 'deep' conversation with Kayleigh, Maria's only

daughter. What a great dancer she is too. Sherri tried to

keep up with her, but Kayleigh was just tooooo much!

We were blessed with the presence of David and Sharon

Depp, Jenny's mother-in-law and father-in-law. We were

also blessed that Kristen Sherrill, a former member of the

K Team and good friend of Jenny's, came by. She enjoyed

seeing Jenny and getting to hold Cyrus, whom she had not

seen at all.

Kristen and Cyrus

Kristen and Matt with a sleeping Turner.

What a sweet baby boy! Turner was so good during the

funeral proceedings and at this point, he was all tired out!

Cyrus and Jenny - burping time! Cyrus also has a good

grip on Uncle Sherman's finger!

Another view of Jenny, Cyrus and Uncle Sherman.

Another view of new life and older life...So sweet!

Baby Cyrus, only one month old, had his passport before

he was two weeks old and I'm so glad so that he and Jenny

could fly home from Istanbul with me to be with Mom

during her last days here on earth.

Such a sweet boy! We are blessed with three grandsons

and one granddaughter. WOW! Thank you Lord.

Uncle Sherman finally got to hold little Cyrus!

Then Gran was able to get her hands on the little one!

Again, Kristen made sure that pictures were taken. :-)

Once our family returned to Boone's Farm on Coltrane

Mill Rd., we enjoyed time with one another before the guys

had to return home. Turner was very entertaining in that

he had begun crawling just that week. Also, he and his

Dad love to play ball. Imagine that!

Aunt Jenny wanted to make sure that she had a picture

with Turner, her only nephew!

Turner playing ball with Matt.

What a sweet little cutie pie!!!

And Cyrus slept throughout the 'ballgame' event!

Matt dressed Turner in his PJs and I had the pleasure of

feeding him his bottle. Then he was ready to go home to

Apex. So Matt, Kristen and Turner headed toward Raleigh

as Adam, Melissa and Kiya headed back to Boone. Jenny

and Cyrus remained with us for a few more days. But the

house got very quiet after that.

Grandad and Cy enjoying some time together.

A Tribute to Mom

2009-07-01T20:33:00.011-04:00

I'm still struggling with the loss of my special Mom. I

thought that writing about her funeral would help me

to deal with the grief that I'm feeling. I know that Mom

is with God, is healthier, happier, and in a glorious place.

I'm so happy for her that she's reached that place that

we all desire to be someday. That doesn't seem to

diminish the hurting in my heart. Time and God's care

will take care of me I know. I love so many people who

are praying not only for me, but for all of our family during

this time of loss.

I love Bobbi Watkins, Director of Volunteer Services at

High Point Regional Health Systems. Mom loved her

dearly also along with Sammie and Jennifer, who are

assistants. Bobbi took both of these pictures of the HPRHS

Volunteers as they stood in a salute at the end of Mom's

funeral on June 17th. They sat together during the funeral,

about 5 rows of them, wearing their burgundy volunteer

jackets. What an impression they made and our family felt

the love and support from their presence. I knew so many

of them as Mom always introduced me when I'd visit her

at the hospital.

Among this large group were some of Mom's best friends.

When you volunteer like this, you meet all kinds of people.

Mom loved people, loved working with people, and loved

helping people. These volunteers are an incredible group

of people, very special people for High Point Regional Hospital.

I love them and appreciate them for attending Mom's funeral,

for their salute to her that showed how much they loved

her. It was unquestionable how much Mom loved each of them.

Mom received numerous plants and flowers. I wish I had

taken pictures of all of them. But during my grief, I didn't.

This is the huge basket of flowers given by the High Point

Regional Hospital Volunteer Services. It was so beautiful

and symbolized the love that so many had for Mom. They

expressed to me how much they miss Mom, how she was

irreplaceable as a volunteer, as a friend. I understand.

The ribbon through the center said "Beloved Volunteer",

representing Mom's 20 years as a volunteer. She loved

being a volunteer so much. Even when she didn't feel well,

she would be at the front Information Desk doing her job.

When she couldn't be there, she felt guilty in not fulfilling

her responsibility. If Mom said that she would do something,

she did it. She believed in being honest, trustworthy and in

working hard to do the best that she could. Mom had so

many admirable qualities. I just hope that I can be partially

close to what her character represented during her lifetime.

After the afternoon funeral, after being with family at

Sherman's home, after returning to our home to be with

our children, and after they left to return home, Kit and

I returned to the cemetery. I needed to revisit Mom and

Dad, even though I know that their blessed spirits were

no longer there in their earthly bodies. I wanted pictures

of the beautiful flowers also.

The spray for Mom's casket was made of red roses, white

lilies and baby's breath. Mom loved red and I know that

she would have loved this spray of flowers.

Now Mom and Dad's bodies are resting together. I can find

peace in knowing that they are together, that they are with

their families who have passed away, and especially that

they have seen Jesus face to face. It is easy for me to see

them all smiling, especially Jesus, as he welcomes Mom to

a wonderful new world of love. We love you so much Mom

and Dad. I'm so happy that you have now found the PEACE

that only God can provide.

Mamaw

2009-07-01T20:33:00.001-04:00

So blessed to have my Mom...

2009-06-15T22:32:00.005-04:00

My Mom was the best. God blessed my brother and I

so much by giving us to her to love. Cleo Jane Snider

Staton passed away on Monday night, June 14, at 9:02 pm.

Our hearts hurt in that Mom is no longer here with us

in this world. But we rejoice in knowing that Mom has

joined Dad, her mother and father, sisters and brothers,

in God's eternal glory. I selfishly grieve for her loss, but

rejoice in knowing that she has a new body, no more pain

or suffering, and that she has seen Jesus face to face! How

glorious! Mom has gotten her long-deserved reward.

My beautiful, little Mom. She had a great big heart and

loved so many family and friends. And she was loved

greatly by so many in return.

Four generations of girls! This picture of Mom, Jenny,

Addi and I was taken at Kristen's bridal tea.

Jenny, Maddox and Addi visited Mom and Dad in January

before returning overseas. Mom was struggling to get over

pneumonia at that time.

Mamaw and Turner - a special time with a precious little boy!

Mom and 3 of her men, Adam, Kit and Matt! Easter 2009.

Mom and Mary Ann - Easter 2009

Mom and Mary Ann at the Gaither Concert - April 2009

May 2009 - Mother's Day - Mom, Sherman and Mary Ann

We miss you Mom...Mamaw...Aunt Cleo...and we love you

very much.

Cyrus Update Pictures

2009-06-07T03:45:00.005-04:00

Cyrus is growing and growing. We cannot believe how
long he is. He eats so well and is a sweet baby. It is hard
to believe that he is now 3 weeks old. Another week and
he will be one month old!

Here is Cyrus's temporary bed. He's growing so fast that
soon he will outgrow the bassinet. But it is a sweet bed
for him to use now.

Here is our precious baby boy in his bed.

Cyrus's eyes continue to change. At birth, they were a

deep blue, then sometimes now, they are brown with gray.

Then they will look dark blue again.

So sweet!

See how long Cyrus is?

Exercising on the floor

But then he got tired of the floor and wanted to be picked

up and held! Cyrus let us hear his voice!

A Turkish Celebration...Interesting!

2009-06-06T05:23:00.003-04:00

Last evening, we started hearing really loud

music. There is a school up the hill from The

Depp's apartment. As we looked out the living

room window, we could see that there was

some type of celebration occuring. There were

the red and white Turkish flags flying, balloons,

and a band. The band played traditional Turkish

music and it could be heard throughout the

neighborhood! There were dancers too. The

video below will share the sound, but I couldn't

zoom in but so far. I'm just sharing a little of the

Turkish culture.

Missing Turner...

2009-06-06T02:36:00.003-04:00

We are loving our time here in Istanbul with the Depp
part of our family. Time with Addi, Maddox and Cyrus
is priceless. But we have missed our little American boy,
Turner! I know that Matt, Kristen and Turner have
had a great time with Kristen's family at the Outer Banks
this past week. We look forward to seeing all the pictures
and videos!

Here's our sweet boy! We love that he has developed
a cute personality, clapping and waving his hands.

Grandad, Grand and Turner...just before leaving for our
flight to Istanbul. We love this little boy!

Videos from the Boat Tour

2009-06-05T10:31:00.009-04:00

Cyrus was awake on the boat going to the ruins. Here

he is doing his exercises!

View #1 from the ruins.

The Ruins view #2

The Ruins View #3

Views along the boat ride heading back down the Bosphorus.

Pancakes, Strawberries and The Mall!

2009-06-05T07:10:00.009-04:00

Addi did a great job of building some fine structures

with the legos on Thursday night!

She's very proud of her work too!

Jenny had the fine help of Maddox as she made pancakes

for our supper on Thursday evening. We had strawberries

and apples along with homemade syrup as toppers. Mmmm!

On Friday morning, Gran had the pleasure of holding

Cyrus while Jenny, Addi and Maddox finished getting

ready for our outing of the day.

Cyrus had on his gator car outfit! We walked to the playground

first so that Addi and Maddox could swing and slide. Then

we took a taxi to the mall. We bought a few groceries and had

lunch. Addi, Maddox and Gran had a great time riding the

various rides!

Addi on a magical horse!

Maddox loved the motorcycle! It said "CHIPS" on the

front, just like the old TV show!

Addi looked so cool in the red sports car.

Maddox loved the yellow sports car.

Both loved the train ride!

Addi and Maddox enjoyed riding another train.

Grandad Flies Home...

2009-06-05T06:27:00.010-04:00

Tues. night, June 2, after our boat tour, Kit made sure to
spend plenty of time playing with Addi and Maddox. It
was his last night in Istanbul as he was flying home the
next day.

Addi and Grandad built a 'garage' with legos.

Maddox, Addi and Grandad having fun.

Grandad, Addi and Maddox in action!

Cyrus enjoyed his bath!

Early the next morning at 6:15am, we rode in a taxi to

take Grandad to the airport to fly home.

We rode over one of the bridges that crosses the

Bosphorus in order to get to the airport.

A view from the bridge

We had some extra time as we waited for the posting of the

check-in area for Grandad's flight. He used the extra

time to hold baby Cyrus. Maddox was not happy that

Grandad had to leave.

Grandad and Cyrus...last moments together until The Depps

come home for stateside in early Dec.

Cyrus slept through most of his first trip to an airport.

Addi and Maddox waiting...

Jenny and Addi waiting too. Soon Grandad's flight was on

the board, so we all went with him so he could check in at the

correct counter. Once he checked in his luggage and got his

boarding passes, he was ready to go through passport security

and to his gate. We said our goodbyes with Jenny and I tearing

up. Grandad got kisses and hugs from all of us, althought

Maddox would not tell him goodbye. He didn't understand

why Grandad had to leave. We wavedand waved after

Grandad got through security, until we couldn't see him anymore.

It was lonely without him. The next day, we got a call from

him saying that all flights were on time and everything went

smoothly. He arrived home safe and sound. Grandad, we miss you!

Maddox has asked about you for three days now! We are glad

that you could skype us and that we could talk to you.

The Bosphorus Boat Tour and Old Fortress Ruins

2009-06-04T05:39:00.017-04:00

Tuesday - June 2, we took off for another family adventure
in Istanbul! We went on a river cruise up the Bosphorus
Strait toward the Black Sea.

Here we are walking toward our boat at the port.

A scenic view of the water and the many boats.

There are always many boats of all kinds to see.

Aboard the river tour boat, Addi is looking at the many

boats of all sizes.

Maddox is studying the boats too.

There are many old buildings along the strait to view.

Another mosque in the background

Kit, Jenny, Cyrus and Matt

This is Addi's dog, Bolt. Named after the famous Bolt in

the movie.

This is Maddox's Boo Boo the Baby Cow.

This is an old palace located along the waterfront.

I've only read about these and now I've actually seen one.

Too bad we didn't have time to go and explore it.

This is one of two bridges that connect the European and

Asian sides of the city.

A palacial home along the waterfront.

Another view with a tower

More beautiful homes and apartments

The boat stopped several times along the route at small

villages to drop off or pick up other passengers. This

home was a beautiful stand-out at this stop.

More beautiful homes...

Jenny and Addi looking at the view

Jenny and Mary Ann

An English gentleman offered to take our picture. Jenny,

Mary Ann and Kit posing for this shot.

We were nearing the Black Sea. Here you can see how

close both land areas are, and beyond is the Black Sea.

A boat entering the Bospherus Strait coming from the

Black Sea.

There are many villages along the water route. Most of

the buildings in Istanbul have the terra cotta tiled roofs,

similar to the roofs in the SW part of the USA.

Addi in an unhappy moment.

Matt, Cyrus and Maddox. Maddox is taking a picture

with the camera. Addi and Maddox enjoyed using both

of our cameras for various shots and some pics taken

were really good!

Cyrus...turn this way for your picture!!! Here Cyrus is

enjoying some exercise time. He loves moving his arms

and legs. He makes such cute noises too!

Jenny, Matt and Maddox

Cyrus still has a head of black hair! His eyes are dark

blue sometimes and dark brown at others. We have no

idea what color they will be eventually!

You can barely see the ruins of an old palace fortress to

the left of the red Turkish flag in this shot.

We arrived in this small village for a lunch stop. Those who

chose to could hike up the mountain side to see the ruins of

an old fortress.

There were many small outdoor restaurants to choose from

for lunch. Many were grilling all kinds of fish delights. But

Matt and Kit do not eat fish, so we moved along until we

finally found this cafe.

Kit sat patiently waiting on his chicken dish.

Before lunch, the children enjoyed watching this kitten

curl up and get comfortable for his nap.

After lunch, we started our hike to the top to see the ruins.

This store caught my eye with the wooden children, like

Pinnochio sitting in the upstairs window.

As we traveled up, following the road, there were homes

and great views of the Bosphorus.

We walked past part of the fortress ruins here.

The road ended and we had to climb up many steps. Along

the way were several restaurants with great views. But I

was thankful that we had eaten before climbing up this

mountain!

Another beautiful view...

Here are the ruins of the old fortress built by Sultan Sehmet

for protecting the city of Istanbul a long time ago. You could

climb up to the top, but we didn't because of the children

and the old lady who came along!

An incredible blue view!

Another view of the ruins

The Depp Family - Addi, Maddox, Cyrus, Jenny and Matt

We took a break in the shade of the tower of the ruins.

Another view from the backside of the ruins

The opening of the Bosphorus leading into the Black Sea

from atop the mountain at the ruins.

We started our walk back down from the top. This shows

part of the old wall around the fortress.

A great view as we began our descent.

One last shot before heading down

An opening in the old wall

Back on the boat, we had a great view of the little village

here we had lunch and the ruins at the top of the mountain.

A last look from our boat toward the Black Sea.

Maddox pretending to slide on the boat.

Addi posing for her shot on the pretend slide.

We were all very tired. Jenny and Cyrus napping together.

Cyrus was such a great little traveler!

Another old palace along the waterfront.

The Istanbul Archaeology Museum

2009-05-31T15:06:00.005-04:00

Last week, Jenny, Cyrus, Kit and I went once again

to the European side of Istanbul to visit the Istanbul

Museum of Archaeology. It is known as one of the

best in the world. I forgot my camera this day and

was very unhappy about it. So I pulled some pictures

from the internet to at least have a history noted about

this day.

Entrance to the museum

This doesn't show the entire building, but just one

of the front step entrances. This is a huge museum

that contains many old artifacts.

One item that we had read about was the Alexander

Sarcophagus. We had read about it and thought that

this was the burial coffin of Alexander the Great. Once

we saw it, we admired the beautiful carvings on the

sides. Then we read the sign that said that some King

was actually buried in the coffin! For many years they

thought that it was Alexander the Great, but that was

a mistake. The carvings around the outside depict

many battles of Alexander, therefore, the reason for

the mistake.

There were many old artifacts outside the museum.

This one is a Christian sarcophagus.

The museum also has a Children's Museum. This

replica of The Trojan Horse stands at the entrance.

Troy, where the epic occurs, is located not too far

from Istanbul. It is quite a historical area which is

still under excavation. It is too far for us to visit,

but maybe someday!

This is the head sarcophagus of Sidonian King Tabnit,

It had previously belonged to an Egyptian General.

I guess that they reused these things long ago?????

The skeleton of King Tabnit! Yes, this was on display

and we really saw it. Weird for us, but I guess that

Dr. Brennan on the TV show "Bones" would love it!

This is a kiosk of tiled artifacts from Sultan Mehmet

the Conqueror, 1472. We didn't go inside, but I'm sure

that all of the tiles were beautiful.

This museum also had a floor totally devoted to artifacts

discovered at Troy during various periods of time. All

of these old, historical relics were impressive.

A Day at The Sultans Home - Topkapi Palace

2009-05-31T10:47:00.014-04:00

Jenny, Cyrus, Kit and I had another outing for the day on

Friday - May 29. Once again we walked, caught the "blue

bus" (as Maddox calls it), walked again, rode the boat

across the strait, walked again, caught an above ground

electric train, then walked again to enter the Topkapi

Palace where for 400 years, the Sultans lived, who reigned

over the people here.

Cyrus showed his excitement for the day trip while he was

nestled in his Bjorn baby carrier. He's a great little traveler!

Jenny is explaining something to her Dad on the boat.

Once we disembarked from the boat, we walked to an

overpass walkway to cross the highway. This is a busy

area of traffic. This picture was taken from the top of the

pedestrian bridge.

Another picture from the pedestrian bridge.

This is an example of the train that we have ridden several

times to see the historical places.

More traffic where we catch the train, or get off of it.

See anything familiar? There are numerous McDonald's

and Burger King restaurants in the city. What would I do

without the Coke and Pepsi products in a foreign land?

Jenny, Cyrus and Kit at the entrance to the Topkapi Palace.

Kit was discovering old relics on his own!

This is a building guilded with gold on the outside and it is

beautiful. This is where many dignitaries of other lands

would come to meet to discuss affairs. The Sultan who

reigned at the time was in the building, but didn't sit with

the others due to his high presence. Instead, he was in a

room above the meeting room, where there was a gold door

that had small openings. He could listen, speak his mind

and tell them when the meeting was to end when he was

tired of them.

This is one of two front doors to the meeting place for

dignitaries.

An inner courtyard with flowers, trees, pathways.

There are a number of various courtyards that had specific

purposes. There were gates that would open into the next

courtyard. This is the Felicity Gate that led to the inner

courtyard where the Sultan lived.

After passing through The Felicity Gate, the next area

was an example of how the Sultan rested.

One of many Turkish rugs

A fireplace in the back of the room on the left and a huge

canopied bed of a Sultan on the right.

Entrance to the Chamber of Petitions or The Audience Hall

Once inside the building in the picture above, we realized

that it was a display of the many caftans and other clothing

of various Sultans and some children's clothing. I took this

picture before seeing the signs and one of the security guards

asked that I not take pictures. But he didn't make me

delete this one! Most of the clothing looked very large and

maybe some of the Sultans were big men. Most were very

colorful too.

Through one of the areas, there were lots of patio views of

the Bosphorus Strait, and to the south, The Sea of Marmara.

On this particularly warm, sunny day, in the distance you

can see fog hanging low over the sea.

The Bosphorus Strait

Jenny and Kit...Daughter and Dad...little Cyrus too, but

he's hidden in the baby carrier!

Mary Ann posing for a shot!

Mary Ann and Kit

Below was an outdoor restaurant. Attractive and smelled

good, but was too pricey for our lunch!

This was a private area for the Sultan with a fountain

and pool area.

The Sultan's relaxation area.

Long, comfortable couches lined each of the four walls inside.

Jenny and Cyrus taking in the Sultan's rest area. There was

beautiful blue tile all over the inside.

Kit posing in front of a very tall fireplace. That is not

Kit's European bag (Seinfeld)! It is Cyrus's diaper bag!

More beautiful blue tile! We didn't get to visit the

family living quarters called The Harem. This was where

the many wives, children and servants of the Sultan lived.

It cost us 2o lira to get into the Palace grounds, then to

visit The Harem, it cost an extra 15 lira. We decided that

we'd seen enough without The Harem! Maybe another time!

Outside Topkapi Palace, we hopped aboard the train once

again. Then before riding the boat back across the strait,

we ate lunch at a neat little cafe.

Jenny and Cyrus

While riding the boat, we saw this huge cruise ship. Can

you count how many floors there are to this giant water

vessel? We figured that there were 8-10 floors for guests!

We had a great day and learned more about our world of

long ago.

Fun with the Children - Playground and Lunch

2009-05-31T09:14:00.009-04:00

Kit had a good idea on this day, May 27th, for us to take
Addi and Maddox to a different playground, that we'd
been to already with Jenny. We wanted to give Jenny
and Matt a little quiet time. They still had Cyrus to take
care of, but the care for a newborn is much different than
caring for a 3 and 4 year old!

Here's the train at the park and you can see that Kit enjoyed
riding it as much as the children did!

Maddox questioning Grandad about something!

Our precious blonde hair/blue-eyed little boy! And he is

definitely all boy! Rough, tubble and brave! He reminds

us of Uncle Adam so much!

Our precious Addi, engineering the train!

We love our only grandaughter! She's so easy to love and

gives that love back quite often with hugs.

Gran pushed the camera into Grandad's hands to get some

shots with Maddox. I'm rarely in any of our pictures.

Maddox and Gran...my oldest grandson! Love that I have

two more precious grandsons! I miss Turner so much.

Addi and Gran

Addi loves to take pictures! She took this one of Maddox

sliding down the slide. Pretty good for a 4 yr. old!

Addi took this picture also of Gran and Grandad.

Addi and Maddox on the exercise machines.

For lunch, we ate at a nearby cafe and had pida, pronounced

pee-day. The bread and cheeses here are wonderful. This

dish is similar to pizza. We all enjoyed our lunch after playing

at the playground.

Addi ate all of her pida, leaving only some of the crust!

Grandad is studying the menu, although he doesn't read

Turkish!! He looked at the pictures and that helped!

Here we are enjoying time with Cyrus. He is sporting his

first pair of shorts, much too big, but fit okay with his big

cloth diaper on. He's so cute!

Look at that sweet face!

Eyes bright and open, observing all around him!

This evening after dinner, we took a taxi to Coffee World,

a coffee/dessert shop featuring all kinds of chocolate

candies and desserts! Here Addi is showing us her chocolate

hippo. It is similar to those chocolate Easter bunnies that

you see every spring.

Maddox enjoyed his chocolate hippo too along with other

candies that were given to us.

My dessert, chocolate brownie with chocolate sauce and

vanilla ice cream. Mmmmmm!

Matt enjoyed an expresso. Cyrus enjoyed his Mom's

chocolate cheesecake later during the night. :-)

Addi enjoying her chocolate!

Kit enjoyed his brownie and ice cream too!

Jenny and her chocolate cheesecake

Here is one of the chocolates, like a truffle, that we enjoyed.

Mary Ann had her fill of rich chocolate for that night!

Visiting the Hagia Sophia Museum and The Blue Mosque

2009-05-29T13:39:00.018-04:00

Tuesday, May 26, was another adventurous day. All 7

of us traveled by bus, then boat to the European side of

Istanbul. There we explored The Hagia Sophia Museum

and The Blue Mosque. It was a full day as Kit and I had

to review some of our world history and learned so much

more.

Here's the boat that we road on to get to the European

side of Istanbul.

Maddox and Addi - looking at the other boats that were
traveling through the waters of the Bosphorus Strait.

Kit, Matt and Cyrus - Matt has Cyrus in the baby carrier

in front of him. You cannot see his head, but his little

arms are hanging out (red stripes).

Jenny, Maddox and Addi on the boat ride

There are mosques everywhere you look!

Walking toward the Hagia Sophia Museum

Long ago, the Hagia Sophia was an Orthodox church, then
it was changed to a Muslim mosque, then a museum that

represents both faiths. It is old, huge and incredible.

One of many mozaic panels throughout the Hagia Sophia.
There has been and continues to be restoration within this

old building. The plan is to show the architecture and the

Christian mozaics along with the Muslim features that

at one time were a part of the Hagia Sophia.

This picture is dark, but this is a wooden door that is so

tall and huge. I could not capture it all with my camera.

It is said that only the emporer could walk through these

doors during Byzantine times.

This is the ceiling of the main dome and you can see the

scaffolding that reaches high to that level. There are steps

within the scaffolding that men climb daily to work on the

restoration.

A marble jar...notice the cat to the left. They are everywhere.

Cats are honored in Turkey as they receive the credit for

taking care of the rat population long ago during the Black

Plague years. The rats spread the disease to many countries

and many died from it. Turkey seemed to be protected

from the disease by their cat population.

Here you can see the Muslim features from that period of

time. The two discs illustrate Arabic writing.

Addi and Maddox enjoyed going around and around this

marble column, one of several.

Bottom left, part of one of the old wooden chandeliers. In

the center, a few of the many stained glass windows.

Muezzin's lodge, built during the reign of Sultan Mumed II,

1574-1595. The muezzin is the person who gives the call

to prayer in a mosque. With so many mosques located

throughout the city, you will hear the call to prayer about

six times per day beginning at 6:00 am and the last one

is at 10:00 am. There are about 3 mosques located nearby

Jenny and Matt's apartment here in Istanbul. We hear the

call to prayer everyday...the voices chanting scriptures in

Arabic all at the same time. It is very interesting!

This spot is marked as the place where the emperors were

crowned.

A mimbar in a mosque corresponds in function to the pulpit

in a church. This is a fine example of Ottoman-period

marble-working craftmanship in the 16th century.

Bettter view of the stained glass window in the pulpit area.

Mary and Baby Jesus mozaic on the ceiling.

A better view of the old wooden chandeliers, once they

burned candles, but have been modernized with electric

bulbs.

The Hagia Sophia is built with numerous colors of marble.

Due to the ceiling being so high and the doors open, birds

do get into the building. Maddox enjoyed searching for

them as they flew across the museum.

Sultan Mahmud 1 (1730-1754) Library - built in 1739

Nothing like our libraries of today!

One of the many wooden ladders used long

ago to create the features inside this building.

I thought the scaffolding of today looked scary,

but I would never have had the nerve to use

this apparatus to climb long ago!

Tiles depicting the Holy Kaaba in Mecca - Iznik tiles from

the 16th and 17th centuries.

The stone ramp that led to the upper gallery

Kit heading upstairs to see more relics

Mary Ann beside the sign with pictures of mozaics.

Upstairs, the Lodge of the Empress - From here she would

follow the divine service of the church.

Another view of the lower floor from the upstairs. This

somewhat gives one the picture of how high the ceiling

is in the building.

A view of the city from the upstairs gallery

A marble door in which the participants in synods entered

and left the meeting chamber.

Part of a mozaic that was discovered during the renovations

of the Hagia Sophia. Once this building became a mosque,

all features of the Orthodox church were painted or covered

over. Over time, many of these beautiful mozaics have been

discovered. This one depicts Judegement Day with Jesus

enthroned between the Virgin Mary and St. John the Baptist.

This was created during the 12th century.

This is a picture of what the entire mozaic once looked like.

Another view of the outside from within Hagia Sophia.

If you look closely, near the middle of this picture, you will

see Jenny. She's nursing Cyrus while the rest of us are

viewing the sites upstairs.

More of the beautiful marble columns

Just one picture of the beautiful tile work found throughout

the Hagia Sophia.

Grandad, Maddox and Addi

Our view of the outside of the Hagia Sophia as we head

to an outside restaurant for lunch.

We enjoyed some Turkish food with a very friendly wait

staff. Addi had spaghetti, Kit had chicken kabob and the

rest of us had lamb. Mmmmm! Maddox had french fries

and bread!

Gran, Grandad, Addi and Maddox in front of a

beautiful fountain.

Our next adventure was to view the Blue Mosque. It is

located beside Hagia Sophia. It is about 400 years old,

huge and still used by worshiping Muslims today.

We arrived just as prayer time had just concluded. The

red carpet looks continuous, but it is actually numerous

rectangles, just the size for each man to kneel and pray.

We had to remove our shoes before entering the mosque.

Jenny and I had to cover our heads out of respect. The

wooden railing prevents visitors from going into the

prayer area.

The dome ceiling is very high. There are beautiful

stained glass windows all around. There are many

beautiful patterns of blue and yellow tile throughout.

This picture was taken by a Turkish gentleman who

followed us in from the outside of the mosque. He insisted

that he be our free tour guide and gave us lots of information

about the Blue Mosque. We weren't dumb and knew that

he had to want something in exchange for his attention to

us. He knew that we looked like American tourists and

took us to be gullible. We told him up front that we didn't

want the services of a tour guide and he stated that he was

just doing it for free. Then he shared that he owned a

carpet shop, those famous Turkish rugs, and that he also

sold porcelain items there too. Maybe we would come by

his shop and purchase something. So there we have the

scheme out in the open! We told him that we didn't have

time to shop, that we appreciated his information, but we

didn't need him. He was persistant and didn't leave. We

were friendly, courteous. He took the picture of us above.

As we left, put our shoes back on at the steps, Kit offered

him 5 lira. He refused and once again started talking about

us going to his shop! Finally, we told him that Jenny had to

get to the baby to feed him, that Matt and he other two

children were waiting for us at a nearby park. He finally got

the message that we were not interested and not going to

his shop. We walked away from him and he approached us

one more time. This isn't uncommon for Turks to be so

aggressive in their sales. We got serious with him too and

he gave up. BUT, once we were outside the courtyard of the

mosque, he approached Kit again. This time he stated that

he wouldn't want to "break his heart, that if he wanted to

make a donation, he could"!!! So Kit gave him the 5 lira and

he left us alone. It was not a scary situation, but one where

we had to be firm. The other thing that Jenny shared is that

he couldn't take the money in the mosque or on the mosque

grounds. He waited until we were outside of the wall before

he approached Kit once again. Interesting!!!

Another picture to show the height of the mosque.

Enjoying The Depp Family

2009-05-25T08:40:00.014-04:00

Last Friday night Addi was invited to a birthday party.
The theme was Pirates of the Carribean. My son-in-law
is so creative and designed a great pirate costume for
Addi.

Notice the 'hook' on Addi's right hand!!! She had a great

time at the party and brought lots of candy home for

herself and Maddox. In this picture you can see in

the background, Cyrus's bassinet, where he sleeps.

This same evening, Jenny got a phone call sharing

that Cyrus's bilirubin level was too high,he was very

jaundiced. So Jenny, Cyrus, Missy and I wentback to

the hospital. Thank goodness Missy knew her

Turkish language and helped with the understanding of

what needed to be done. Jenny was in tears as she had

to hand Cyrus over to the nurse in the nursery. Cyrus had

to have 12 hours of light therapy. Jenny didn't want to

leave him at the hospital overnight, so the two of us stayed

there, resting when we could in the chairs provided in the

hallway. We didn't sleep much. Jenny was allowed to nurse

Cyrus every three hours and was thankful to get to hold him

then. His bilirubin level did come down and we were able to

take him home on Sat. around 11am. Jenny and I were so

tired and happy to be home. We were so grateful that

Cyrus was better too.

Here's Cyrus after we got home from the hospital.

Cyrus sleeps, eats, pees and poops, then the cycle starts

all over again! I was lucky to catch him with his eyes

open in this picture. So far, the eyes are still a dark blue.

Almost one week old! He's such a good baby!

On Sunday we rode the bus to meet a friend, Rob. We then

got into a mini-van taxi to take us to a really big park.

The guys played basketball while Jenny, the children and

I enjoyed the beautiful sunny weather. There were several

playground areas that Addi and Maddox enjoyed.

Addi and Maddox on the slide.

Down Maddox goes!

Addi and Maddox in action on the slide.
!
Addi on the steps

Maddox riding the bike

Look at that stride! Go Addi!

The children strive to ride the bike, doing the exercise in

their own way!

Cyrus enjoyed sleeping while at the park!

And once we were back home...So far, this child is not too

demanding!

Sleeping peacefully

Addi watching a movie...must be a serious part.

Maddox is serious about it too! We had a busy day this

day and we all had a good time.

More of Our Trip Across The Bosphorus Strait

2009-05-25T07:56:00.004-04:00

Here are more pictures that were taken on the day when
we were pursuing the passport for Cyrus.

This was not the boat that we were on, but one that is

very similar. There are many of them and they are destined

to specific ports. There are numerous ports.

Matt, Jenny, Cyrus and Addi on the boat

Maddox on the boat

There were many beautiful, historic buildings along the

waterfront as we cruised. Castles, mosques, palaces built

long ago, some in modern times.

One of many mosques in the city of Istanbul

One view of the many terra-cotta tiled rooftops of apartment

buildings.

This is an illegal picture taken before I knew that I was

not to take pictures! This is the US Consolate building

where Jenny and Matt pursued a passport for Cyrus.

We saw these two huge cruise ships on our way back

across the strait.

Another Day in Istanbul

2009-05-25T05:22:00.011-04:00

The flowers in Istanbul are beautiful. The roses have really
caught my eye in that once they open, they are huge! This
rose bush is near where we are living with Jenny and Matt.

Here is a close-up view of one rose. The rose bushes are

many different colors, just like at home. On Sunday, there

is a vegetable, plant and flower market nearby. It is so

pretty!

This is the backside of the apartment building where we

are living right now. There are various guest houses used

by those who come to Istanbul for medical care.

One day we walked to a nearby park, not the same one that

is located behind Jenny's apartment. The kids enjoy playing

here. It was a little cool this day in the morning, but got warmer

as the day passed along. Addi enjoyed climbing up into the

tree house.

Maddox loves to swing! Kit pushed him for a long time!

There are a number of slides too and Addi really enjoys

those.

What a sweet, cute boy! Maddox loves the "train" in this

part of the park.

Addi and Maddox posing for a picture on the train.

Grandad went for a ride also! He's just a big kid at heart!

Addi and Maddox enjoying the slide.

This is a mosque near the port down by the Bosphorus Strait.

We attempted to make this special trip three times!! We

walked to catch a bus that took us to the port. Then we

rode a big boat across the Bosphorus.

Another view of the port area. This trip was special in that

we were going to the American Consolate to apply for a

passport for Cyrus. Once we got to the European side of

Istanbul, we took a long taxi ride. The US building is very

impressive! We were so happy with the success of our trip

and that the process for the passport went well. Most of the

women dress in modern fashion. Many do cover their heads

with beautiful scarves. We have seen some women with

the full berkha dress, such as in the picture above.

Maddox holding Cyrus. He's been very concerned about

Cyrus not having enough toys to play with!

Grandad, Addi and Cyrus

Addi and Cyrus...She loves her little brother.

Cyrus in his little seat!

Matt playing with Addi and Maddox, while Cyrus watches.

Cyrus, Addi and Maddox

2009-05-19T10:02:00.006-04:00

Addi and Cyrus - She loves her little brother!

Maddox loves Cyrus too!

Addi giving Cyrus some attention, making sure that he

was covered up and warm.

Cyrus Robert Depp Joins Our Family!

2009-05-18T14:57:00.009-04:00

It was 10am on a Sunday morning, May 17th in the huge

city of Istanbul, Turkey, when a mother, father, grandmother

and grandfather traveled a few blocks away to the local

hospital in the region of Acibadem. Their goal that day

was to welcome into the world a little baby boy. The

mother was anxious and very large. They were all very

happy that the delivery date had arrived.

Things were going rather slowly that day for the baby's

delivery. Kit and Mary Ann walked up the street and had

lunch sitting outside at a KFC...Yes, it was really The

Colonel's chicken restaurant!

We waited all day and many hours during the evening.

Finally at 11:06 pm, Cyrus Robert Depp arrived to become

the youngest member of our family. He weighed in at

9 lbs. 1 oz and was 20 in. long. We knew that he was going

to be a big boy, but not that big! Cyrus and Jenny had a

long, hard day, but finally the joy did arrive!

Look at that head of black hair!

Such a sweet little lamb!

Cyrus Robert Depp

Jenny and Cyrus

He eats, sleeps and does all those other normal things!

Mom and her son...

Jenny, Cyrus and Matt

Matt and Cyrus - The proud father!

Gran and Cyrus - Proud grandmother!

Proud Grandfather - Kit and Cyrus

With his tongue out, he's ready to eat!

This is Cyrus, but looks so much like Addi when she was born!

My mittens are on so I won't scratch my face!

Our Cyrus!

Gran and Grandad had the privilege of bringing Addi and

Maddox, the big sister and big brother, to see their baby

brother, Cyrus, for the first time on Monday. Here is

Addi holding Cyrus! She is a great helper to Mom and

loves this baby brother!

Here's a proud Maddox holding his new baby brother! He

was so excited about seeing Cyrus!

Addi and Jenny at the hospital.

Matt helps Maddox to hold Cyrus carefully.

Cyrus swaddled and asleep in his little crib at the hospital.

Another look at that head of black hair!

What a beautiful family!!!

Addi caring for Cyrus

Addi rubbing Cyrus sweet head!

You can easily see why this baby boy weighed 9.1 lbs.!!!

Look at those strong legs!

Maddox helping Mom with Cyrus

Addi, Grandad and Maddox...watching a DVD on the laptop.

Actually, Grandad is resting his eyes! He and Gran were

pretty tired after the late night when Cyrus was born.

Istanbul - Flying and Our First Day

2009-05-16T14:08:00.016-04:00

On May 13th Kit and I flew out of the RDU International
Airport heading to a connector flight in London, England.
From London, we flew to Istanbul, Turkey.

Kit in the airplane ready for the trip.

Mary Ann is ready to see her family overseas!

Inside the big American Airlines plane.

We were warmly greeted with hugs from Addi and Maddox

as Matt brought them to the airport to meet us. Here are

Matt and Maddox on the bus that we rode in to the port

to catch a boat to cross the Bosphorus Strait, which divides

the city of Istanbul.

Addi on the bus!

Addi and Grandad. Maddox looking out the bus window.

Addi and Grandad looking at the water as we awaited our boat.

There are several of these big boats that move quickly

across the Bosphorus. This is public transportation.

Addi, Grandad and Maddox looking at the boat.

There are many seats in the boat and big windows to look

out and see many other boats of all sizes in the water.

Docking on the Asian side of the city where The Depps live.

Jenny met us here as we were side-tracked by a Turkish

shoeshiner who wanted to clean one piece of our luggage!

It had some kind of white mess on it from the flight.

The next day we went to the playground which you can

see from the window of The Depp apartment. It is really

nice for the children and has adult exercise equipment

also. Here is Addi enjoying the swing.

Our sweet and only granddaughter, Addi!

Fun on the see-saw!

Our boy Maddox!

Maddox loves his trucks and loves playing at the park.

Maddox and his Spiderman cap

The bubbles brought from The States were fun to blow

at the park.

More bubbles...

Entertaining Turkish friends with the bubbles. Addi was

so kind to share.

Friday night is pizza/movie night at The Depps.

Grandad and Maddox playing around in the living room.

Addi and Grandad playing indoor football!

This is the view out the living room window. Beyond the

parking lot is the playground where the kids love to play.

On Friday, Jenny and I took a taxi to the clinic/hospital

for her appointment with her doctor. Dr. Deniz is wonderful!

We walked home, stopping to buy bread, stopping at the

bank ATM, and a market for some groceries. It is normally

a 20 min. walk to Jenny's apartment. There are lots of

hills to climb!

Mother's Day May 10, 2009

2009-05-10T21:58:00.006-04:00

Mother's Day is always a very special day for me. I have
three wonderful children, a beautiful daughter-in-law, a
handsome son-in-law, one darling grandaughter, two
precious grandsons and another grandson on the way.
God is so good and has blessed us with our family. Oh,
we also have two grandogs! I was blessed to be able
to talk to my daughter, Jenny, all the way from Istanbul
this morning. Matt, our oldest son, called me later to
wish me a Happy Mother's Day. Adam, shared that
greeting with me yesterday while we visited him in
Boone. But he also called today. Thank you Lord!

We celebrated Mother's Day with my side of the family this

evening with a pizza and salad dinner. Above, you see my

Mom, Sherman, my brother and I.

Sherri, my very special niece, and Mamaw, my mother.

Sandy and Sherri, a special mother and daughter

Sherman and Mom in conversation

My cousin, Gladys Ann, Kit and Sandy

Gladys Ann joined us for dinner also. She's a special

member of our family and we always include her!

We had a smaller group due to the boys not being able

to come to Greensboro. It was great to have the seven

of us all in one room around one table. We enjoyed the

conversations and love! Happy Mother's Day to all!

We Miss You Mr. Clark. We love you!

2009-05-10T21:48:00.003-04:00

For twelve years, when our children were very young, we lived on Holly Hill St. in Ramseur, NC.

Our family loved living beside Mr. and Mrs. Clark as they were not only the best neighbors, but like grandparents to our three children, Matt, Jenny and Adam. We are so sorry to hear of the passing of this wonderful man. We have many fond memories from when we lived on Holly Hill and most of them include Mr. Clark. We can still see him sitting in a fold-up chair in his carport. We still remember when we looked out the window and he was mowing our yard. We remember when Adam was born, Mr. Clark was called to pick up a sick Jenny at Chimney Lane Daycare because we couldn't. Our children along with the other children in the neighborhood definitely remember the many trips to get ice cream as they all piled into Mr. Clark's Cadillac. We remember when the grandaughters would come for visits in the summer. Our children all played together. Once we moved to Greensboro, we continued to love this Ramseur family. We returned several times for visits and made phone calls to see how they were doing. They often called us too. When our oldest son graduated from NC State, Mr. and Mrs. Clark surprised us by attending a cookout party at our home in Greensboro. Mrs. Clark was always a wonderful Southern Belle and Mr. Clark was our Southern Gentleman. We know that Mr. Clark is smiling down on us and remembering good times also. He was a wonderful Christian man. Mrs. Clark, we love you too and pray for your good health. God bless all of this wonderful family. We miss you Mr. Clark.

Our Day in Boone 5-0-09

2009-05-10T20:20:00.009-04:00

We left the house early on Saturday morning making our

way to Boone, NC. We planned to spend some time with

Adam before leaving for our trip overseas. Also, we wanted

to see Melissa on this special day, her graduation from ASU

was scheduled for 4:30 pm. We are so proud of her!

Here is a silly Kit as we were sitting in the car waiting for

Adam to meet us in Deep Gap. Our morning mission was

to scout out some land with mountain cabins for a possible

investment. Kit did his research online, had some places

for us to find to see what kind of cabin and land that you

get for the money. Adam wanted to go with us as we

explored the area between Deep Gap and West Jefferson.

Adam followed us in his truck to various places because he

had Kiya with him. He didn't want her dog hair all over our

car! We drove and drove, enjoying the beautiful mountains,

the South Fork of the New River, some gorgeous, expensive

homes, but we found none of the specific areas that Kit had

listed!! At one of our stops to get information, Kiya waited

patiently in Adam's truck for his return. She is such a sweet

dog! She posed for me in numerous ways and I couldn't resist

taking her picture each time. So forgive me for the

multiple pictures of Kiya!

Notice the beads around Kiya's neck along with her collar?

She was wearing that wonderful ASU black and gold to

celebrate Melissa's graduation day!

Isn't she sweet! I love this pose!

This is cute too. And believe me, she wasn't trying to get

out. She just wanted to be closer to Adam!

Kiya has her eyes on something in the distance!

Adam and Kiya...Adam's head is tilted due to Kiya striving

to give him a sloppy kiss!

We tried the pose once again...but Kiya is full of love for

Adam. So once again, if he got close enough for the picture,

he was going to get a Kiya kiss!

One of the nice mountain homes that we saw, but not the

one we were looking for!

Another fairly nice house. I didn't get pictures of some of

the really expensive, beautiful homes...that we would only

look at and admire...never buy!

Maybe we could afford something like this one...NAH!

After our exploration, we went to Melissa's apartment.

Her sister and parents were there. The girls looked

beautiful in their summer dresses. We traveled to Blowing

Rock for a graduation celebration lunch at Glidewell's.

Mmmmm! The food was delicious! We enjoyed getting to

know James and Teresa Edwards, Melissa's parents. We

also enjoyed meeting Emily, her sister. They are both

beautiful young women. The picture above is of Emily,

Melissa and Adam.

James, Teresa and Emily having conversation. What a

wonderful family.

Melissa and Adam posed for pictures outside the restaurant

after our lunch.

Melissa and Adam again.

Emily and Melissa...Aren't they beautiful!

The Edwards Family

Kit, Mary Ann, Melissa and Adam

We drove Adam and Melissa back to Melissa's apartment

and said our goodbyes. We couldn't stay until the 4:30 pm

graduation. We needed to get home, change clothes and

drive to Ramseur for a funeral visitation. A good, dear

friend of ours died last week. More about him in the next

blog entry.

Love those beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains!

Istanbul, Turkey...Here We Come!

2009-05-05T21:42:00.009-04:00

We are so excited!!! On Wednesday, May 13th, one week
from tomorrow Kit and I will be flying to Istanbul, Turkey
to visit Jenny, Matt, Addi, Maddox and Little Baby Boy Depp!!!
We cannot believe that the time is nearly here for us to
fly across the Atlantic Ocean and be with part of our
family. But the time is here and we are getting ready
for it. Kit's suitcase is packed except for last minute items!
Mine is not, but I do have my packing list created so that
I won't forget anything. The bags with Addi's homeschooling
materials, the baby's special diapers, baby clothes, new
clothes for Addi and Maddox, books and videos for Addi
and Maddox, and other things, like OREOS and peanut
butter are packed and ready to go. One thing is for sure,
we will definitely be ready to go by next Wednesday!
Below are a few Istanbul pictures from the internet.
Maybe we will get to see some of these things! Of course,
our main purpose for going is to see our children, and
especially to welcome Baby Boy Depp into the world!!!

One of many beautiful mosques

The Bosphorus River runs through the city of Istanbul,
separating the European side from the Asian side.
Another mosque...

Turkish women in public. Jenny shared with me that I

cannot wear shorts or a sleeveless top in public. Capris

are acceptable. I will respect the Turkish regulations for

women of course. But I just don't see me all wrapped up

like these ladies.

I don't know if it will be possible, but I hope that we can

visit The Grand Bazaar! From what I've read and the

pictures that I've seen, just about anything and everything

can be bought there.

Here you see the various herbs and spices for sale.

We are going to miss our family and friends here, but we

look forward to a few weeks of time with our Russian

family too. I'm counting on my wonderful family members

to take care of Mom while I'm gone. Of course, I will

call Mom regularly during the week through Skype on my

laptop! I'll be emailing so many of you too! Make sure that

you log on to my blog for pictures, especially of the Baby

Boy Depp! Hopefully, by the time you see those pictures,

he will have a name!!!!

A Turner B Day!

2009-05-04T17:31:00.008-04:00

Saturday, May 2 was Turner B Day for Gran and
Grandad!!! Matt and Kristen helped a cousin to
move into a new home. So Turner had fun with
Gran and Grandad. Poor baby boy had a cold with
a running nose and cough, but he was so pleasant
and lots of fun.

Turner wanted to check out my camera!

A cute pose as Turner sucks on that bottom lip!

Turner Live!

Grandad had to put the cap on Turner.

And the sunglasses! But they didn't stay on long!

Showing interest in one of his toys.

The sunglasses came off, but Turner likes wearing

his cap!

Watching Chloe!

Here we go with multiple poses on the couch...everyone

of them, so cute!

There's that precious smile!

Turner says that this is fun with a "thumbs up."

What??? No more pictures? But I'm just getting started!

Well, I'm just gonna sit here and cross my feet, waiting

for you to realize that I'm in a picture-taking mood!

After lunch it was time to go for a stroll!

Sitting up so he doesn't miss anything! Mmmm, this

tray has a funny taste!

Grandad and Turner stop on the bridge and look at the

water of the creek flowing by.

After the long walk, a few playtime minutes.

Happy, but where is my bottle of milk? Is it time for my

afternoon nap yet?

Gran and Grandad had a wonderful day with Turner! It

was great to see Matt and Kristen too!

The Gaither Concert

2009-05-04T16:51:00.005-04:00

On Saturday evening, April 25, Kit, Mom and I met The
Parrott Family at the Greensboro Coliseum for The
Gaither Concert. The music was wonderful, we laughed
at the jokes and comical characters and enjoyed singing
along with many of the spiritual songs. The Lord was
definitely in that place with us!

Mom sang, clapped, shined her little flashlight that we were
given and enjoyed the concert. I'm so happy that she could
go with us!

Mom and I wearing our theme color...Hot Pink!

The Parrott Women in their Hot Pink! Betty, Carly and

Ashley. Laura was there in her Hot Pink too, but had

gone to the concession stand. Sorry that we didn't get

Laura in the picture. And where's Max and his pink

shirt and socks????

Bill and Gloria Gaither on the big screen

Gloria shared a wonderful poem

Michael English and Bill Gaither. Michael has an

incredible voice!

Michael English again

I think this is Signature Sound and they were great!

And here's the main one that we were waiting to see...

DAVID PHELPS!!!!

If we'd been closer, I would have other pictures besides

these on the big screen. But that is okay, we could hear

him and he was terrific! What a great voice!

We had a great time! Thank you Betty, my friend, for

inviting us to be with your family for this fun night.

Birthday Flowers

2009-05-04T16:39:00.003-04:00

Adam surprised me with an Easter Lily at Easter.
It was beautiful as each flower opened up. But
I failed to take a picture of it! I will plant it so
that I can enjoy it again hopefully next year!
And I will definitely take a picture of it then.
Thank you Adam for your thoughtfulness!
You too Melissa!!!! :-)

Matt, Kristen and Turner surprised me with
flowers on my birthday! Here are some pictures
of those.

Love those lilies! The color was beautiful.

A close-up of one of the flowers. A few were blooming
when they arrrived. Others opened up within a few days.
I enjoyed them so much! Thank you Matt, Kristen and
Turner!

Mamaw's Flowering Yard!

2009-05-04T16:19:00.005-04:00

Every spring Mom's yard looks beautiful in April as all
of the dogwood trees, white and pink, bloom. The azaleas
were more beautiful this year than they've been in awhile.
They are old and huge! I love Mom's yard in the spring!

The front view

The pink dogwood

Another front view - Mom worked hard in her yard
years ago and all of this colorful beauty is the result of a
it. She still loves playing in the dirt!

Addi loved riding these deer when she was home in
January!!!

Blurry picture, but still gorgeous color

A different color

More pink color

Big camelia bush that blooms every year!

One of the camelia flowers

Love the green grass, pink azaleas and the white dogwoods!

Love it all Mom!

Easter and Family 2009

2009-05-04T13:39:00.014-04:00

And on the third day He rose...Praise the Lord
for His incredible, marvelous power and the
love that he has for us, His children!

Mamaw came to our house after working the morning at

the hospital. We were so happy that she could join us for

Easter lunch. Of course, she was the first one to get to

hold Turner!!!

What a precious, big brown-eyed boy!!! That thumb

tastes so sweet.

What a great looking couple! Matt and Kristen! Chloe, our

first-born grand-dog, couldn't make the trip to Gran and

Grandad's house!

Another good-looking couple! Adam and Melissa! Kiya,

our grand-dog, enjoyed running around in the yard and

resting in her crate on the deck. She really loved the ham

bone I gave her!

Matt, Kristen, Turner, Adam and Melissa joined Kit and

I for a morning worship service at First Lutheran. I knew

that Adam and Melissa would join us, but Matt, Kristen

and Turner gave me a wonderful surprise with their

presence!!! I held Turner the entire time! Sorry Pastor

Charlie, I'm not sure what the sermon was about, but I'm

guessing The Resurrection of Our Lord Jesus Christ!!

Here's a sleeping Turner as he arrived at Aunt Marilyn

and Uncle Ron's house for Easter lunch. He slept as the

rest of us ate a delicious lunch.

Mamaw has her food and is waiting on everyone else

before eating.

We all brought food to Marilyn's house and the spread

was wonderful! Check out Adam in this video!

Mom and Mary Ann - I love my Mom!

Mamaw and the guys - Matt, Kit and Adam

Lunch was so good! Kristen, Jodie, Katie and Jay

Melissa, Adam and Matt eating at the bar. There is no

telling what those conversations were about!!!

Uncle Joel and Uncle Ron - feeling full after the meal.

Mmmmm! Julie's delicious pie topped with fresh strawberries!

This pie was a hit with everyone!

Turner woke up and Aunt Marilyn came to the rescue!

Aunt Julie and others look on as Aunt Marilyn shares an

Easter surprise with Turner.

A bucket of goodies! Bath tub and beach toys! YEAH!

Great to chew on also.

Turner loved his card from Aunt Julie and Uncle Joel too.

It was fun to tear and to chew on also!

I'm a very busy boy!!!

Hi Gran! Yes, I will smile for your camera!

Look who has Turner again...Mamaw! And according to

Turner, that makes him happy!

Such a sweet boy! Happy Easter everyone!

He is risen indeed!!

Down on the Farm!

2009-05-04T12:03:00.011-04:00

One beautiful April day, Kit and I went to the farm so that
he could feed the animals. It is always fun to see the horses
and the burros. The animals know Kit and they also know
that when he comes into the barn, he is going to give them
food! The burros love apples and are very disappointed
when no apples are given to them.

Kit walking toward the red barn.

Legend immediately came to the barn knowing that he was
going to get his special grain! He's so gentle and friendly.

There is a process when Kit feeds the horses. Legend has
to go into another part of the pasture to eat his food, or Lady
would eat it! Here, Cody is wondering why his food isn't in
the bucket!

Lady has to be put into a separate stall to eat because no
one else would get any food! She bites and scares the other
horses away so she can have their food.

Cody on the left and his mother, Lady, on the right.

Cody is in his special eating stall. It is incredible how
much he has grown!

Cody eating his grain. Also a close-up of the leader of the
burros.

The burros are looking for their apples, so they head to
the barn once they know that Kit has arrived. They are
such sweet animals!

Can we have some grain too...like the horses?

Waiting patiently!

Oh well, no apples, no grain, just hay. Better than nothing!
The burros following Kit and the hay remind me of the
famous Pied Piper! No pipe, just hay!

Once Kit started the leaf blower to clean out the barn
floor, Cody ran out of the barn to wait for the quiet so
he could finish eating. But the noise certainly didn't
bother the Burro Leader!!!

The brick driveway and the front of the caboose.

Backside of the caboose from the pool area.

The beautiful chapel is reflected in the pond.

It was fun seeing the animals, then taking a walk around

this part of the farm. I'm so happy that Kit enjoys his

work.

A March Visit with Turner!

2009-05-02T22:10:00.012-04:00

It has been too long since I posted pics and info on my blog.
Too many things going on prevented this, but I hope to
get caught up soon.

Near the end of March, Kit, Mamaw and I took a trip to
Apex to visit Matt, Kristen and Turner! We had a great
time as usual. Who wouldn't? :-)

Mamaw and Turner - A special time of love.

Turner enjoys posing for the camera! Actually, I think

that he was just curious!!

Here is Mamaw talking to Turner. I hope that he enjoys

watching this some day!

Turner had to warm up to us when we first arrived. So his

Mommy helped out. Kristen offered him the security that

he needed. He had to check us all out before accepting our

love!!! Do you blame him? Of course not!

Chloe had to make sure that her boy Turner was okay!

Dad and Turner - Great pals!

Turner almost gave us a smile!

A happy boy? Oh yes! Daddy is holding me!

Two handsome guys!

Turner loves to eat! But it can get very messy. Therefore,

he gets "stripped" down for his meals!

Mmmmm! Love those sweet tators that Mommy cooks

for me!

Feed me and make me happy! Yes, I'm a little messy,

but still so lovable!

What??? You don't like food all over my face???

Enjoy the video of Matt feeding Turner. This was a

special show for all of us!!!

And the finale of the Turner Show was his demonstration

of how he can drink from a cup...with some help of course!!

Thank you Matt and Kristen for a delicious dinner too! You

always make us feel welcome to your home. God is good!

A Birthday Surprise in Charlotte!

2009-03-22T20:18:00.008-04:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY AUNT OLIVIA AND UNCLE BUS!
Today, March 22, Kit and I rode with Julie and Joel to
Charlotte for a very special surprise birthday party.
Marilyn and Ron met us there along with many others
from the Wade Family. My mother-in-law, Jeanette,
was a Wade from Charlotte before marrying my father-in-law,
Keith Boone. Jeanette had many brothers and sisters.
The ones who are still living were at the party.

We had great food to eat! The BBQ was delicious and we
all enjoyed the birthday cake also.

This is Uncle Bus (EE Wade, Jr.) - 89 years old on March 16.
Bus is short for Buster, his name since he was named after
his father. He's a sweet, precious man with lots of smiles.
We absolutely enjoyed the reading from Aunt Virginia,
Bus's wife, about his years in the Navy. He traveled to
many different places.

Here is Julie conversing with Aunt Olivia, who will be 88
tomorrow, March 23. She has always been a very special
lady. She's so much fun and easy to love.

Aunt Virginia, Aunt Betty and Lisa with all the balloons.

Here is Aunt Carolina with her children. She's the wife of

Uncle Don, another one of Jeanette's brothers. Uncle Don

had us laughing with great stories that he shared about

the mischief that he and Uncle Bus were into when they

were young.

Julie, Kit and Marilyn talking with Aunt Olivia

Aunt Theresa, Jeanette's sister, Beverly and Lance having a

discussion. Aunt Theresa and Aunt Olivia remind us so

much of Jeanette. They not only look alike, but have a

great sense of humor too.

Joel and Ron, the in-laws, in conversation.

Julie, Aunt Olivia, Kit and Marilyn prior to eating BBQ.

Uncle Robert, Aunt Theresa's husband is seated with

Uncle Bus. Uncle Don is standing and in conversation

with them.

Julie, Marilyn and Kit sharing fond memories of when they

were younger. Everyone had a chance to share any memories

that they had of Aunt Olivia and Uncle Bus.

Aunt Olivia opening her presents and many birthday cards.

Uncle Bus and Aunt Virginia listening to Uncle Don's stories.

It was a wonderful party and we all were blessed to be a

part of it. Thank you Aunt Virginia for planning this special

occasion to bring the Wade Family together once again.

Turner Visits Greensboro!

2009-03-22T19:56:00.010-04:00

Turner came to Greensboro on March 12 and we had
a great time! I loved having time with my youngest
grandchild. He was so good, so pleasant and wonderful.
Grandad came home at lunchtime from the farm to
have a little time with Turner. Mamaw came over and
enjoy some Turner Time too.

What a cute boy! Those eyes are definitely brown now!

Posing for a picture! Almost smiling!

Turner had fun playing. Watching him use his hands and

legs to try to catch the toys hanging down was so entertaining.

Listening to him as he played was super. He's found his

own voice and expresses himself loudly at times!

Got that toy hanging down!

Tummy Time! WOW! What are those colorful things

on my playmat?

Grandad is to the right, watching this cute little boy play!

Watch me as I sit up! My newest trick!

Ooooh! When I sit up, I can see the toys and reach them

much easier.

Turner and Mamaw snuggling together.

What a loving shot - Great Grandson and Great Grandmother.

Dad's Daisy...Now Mom's Daisy

2009-03-11T22:18:00.009-04:00

I've shared pictures of Daisy the Cat before. I wanted to
share this special feline once again along with one of her
special tricks! But first, let me share a really funny thing
that Daisy does. She will go to the den door waiting for you
to let her out, but when you open the door, she runs away.
She goes to the door two more times, teasing you, then goes
out the third time. Now when she wants back in, she does
one of two things. She may whine sitting at the top of the
steps waiting for someone to open the door. But if no one
hears her, she will climb up onto the handrailing of the steps
and knock on the door! I'm serious! She somehow makes
her paw hit the door to ask to be let back in the house! Mom,
Dad and I have laughed over that so many times.

Here is Daisy on the table in the den that sits between
Mom and Dad's matching recliners. This is not one of her
tricks, nor is it a favorite perch. I just captured her in a
special one-time moment. Daisy does have some favorite
places in the house. On top of the curio cabinet in the
Living Room is one of those. She jumps up on the seat of a
chair, then the back of the chair, then a big leap lands her
on top of the curio! The curio cabinet rocks from her
weight hitting it. But she sleeps there for long periods of time.

Daisy loves to go down into the basement too for long periods
of time. Her favorite place is under the stairwell where
Mom has stored...well, who knows what is under there!
Daisy likes something there because she will sleep there
for hours. But once she decides that it is time to come back
upstairs, she will stand at the top of the stairs and meow
over and over until someone hears her and opens the door.

The funniest trick is when Daisy is ready for a long nap in
a place that is very warm. I think she thinks that she is
hidden from anyone's view, but we all can see that big
hump under Mom's comforter! Somehow, Daisy jumps
and creeps under that comforter! One day when my
brother, Sherman, was painting Mom's den, he saw the
lump in Mom's bed. He asked Mom about it, and Mom
explained that it was Daisy. Sherman then petted her on
top of the comforter to see Daisy's reaction. She moved a
bit, but then kept on sleeping!

Here is another view of this silly, lovable cat enjoying the
comfort of Mom's bed. During the week that Dad was ill, no
longer home, and just after his passing, Daisy would go into
his room and we would hear a pitiful cry from her. She often would
sleep on the top of the covers with Dad. I know that she
has missed him so much. She was Dad's Daisy. But she has
realized that her new best friend is Mom. So typically
every night, she sleeps on top of the covers with Mom.
When I was there every night for awhile, she would often
visit me too. But she loves Mom, so she's Mom's Daisy now.
And Mom is happy to have Daisy around as her buddy.

A Saturday with Turner!

2009-03-08T18:22:00.011-04:00

One beautiful Saturday in March...

While Chloe took a nap...

and Turner and I played...

Matt and Kit worked...

and worked...

Shoveling and dumping dirt...

To create multiple gardens for Kristen. Vegetables and
flowers will be growing this spring and summer at The
Boone House in Apex, NC!

So while the men worked and Kristen enjoyed a special
weekend with her sister Lauren in Concord, I was in
heaven taking care of Turner B! We enjoyed a walk in
the stroller around the neighborhood. It was a beautiful
day!

Such determined concentration as Turner "worked" the
many parts of his exersaucer!

Now just what story are you telling Turner?

And he was so happy and proud too!

Fun and wiggling around!

We also explored the Jungle Mat too.

That made the little boy happy! Of course, wearing his

Atlanta Braves t-shirt made him happy too!

A Snowy March 1, 2009

2009-03-02T21:50:00.005-05:00

What a snow! Who would have thought that on March 1
we would have gotten such a big snow! It is a beautiful
snow too. Although so many people are left without power
and so many had to deal with the slick roads on their
way to work today. That is the bad part of this bright,
white stuff. Fortunately, I didn't have to brave the snow
and could stay home. Here are just a few pictures of the
snow around our house. Jenny, these are just for you!
I know that you have not had to deal with snow this year
except here in the States the day your flight left Raleigh
back in January. You have escaped those deep, daily
snows back in Russia, so I wanted to give you a taste of
this snow here in Greensboro!

This is a morning picture of our backyard.

We had some blue sky this morning too!

More blue sky with the white snow in our backyard.

The front yard this morning was beautiful too.

Another morning view of the front yard. Those blue skies
turned cloudy during the rest of the day. Then the sun
came out later in the evening.

The front steps were covered.

When the sun appeared during the late afternoon, the
sky was beautiful with those sunshine hues!

The front yard once again showing the beautiful background.

The upper part of this picture looks like a postcard!

And God did his beautiful artwork once again. I love this

view of our backyard with the sun going down.

The snow didn't melt very much on our deck today with

the cold temperatures.

What a gorgeous sky to view at the end of the day! I love

it when God gets out his paintbrush!!!