IT is with heavy

's that we post this. IT is NOT our usual post, and comes with a disclaimer. "Read at your own risk." It comes from deep within ALL of us at The Hermitage, and is NOT pretty. It is NOT fun. It is far from what Writer usually posts and there is no lightheartedness. It is dark, and comes from a place within us that we try to keep hidden from the outside world. But as Writer talked to all of us, she has helped us therapeutically. We are all a little less weepy. We are going to see what Chef is busy with. We might eat something. So, read if you will, BUT know that it is heavy and dark. You may read things you least expected. If you wish to reply, thank you. If you wish to offer a prayer, again, thank you. BUT DO NOT try to contact anyone at The Hermitage. We are busy wallowing in the life in The Hermitage.

27 May 2024

The Hermitage HATES this day. NOT Memorial Day, the 27th of May. Although Memorial Day makes us emotional, the heavy heart builds up for days as the 27th approaches. Try as we might, to keep our minds on other things, current life, family, etc. the heavy heart sneaks in and the emotions are high. SO high. And the depths of depression are SO low. Everything within is in turmoil and it ALL leaks out of the front of our face. We weep. We sob. We get Movie Buff to try to distract us. She put on You’ve Got Mail! EGADS!!! What WAS she thinking! And the sobbing begins.

Organizer has been trying to do her thing. She is thinking about updating the cookbooks for Chef and Baker. They have a proclivity of printing new ones off of the internet and then putting them on top of ALL of the cookbooks. They don’t file. Organizer files. Among other things. So, there is that. Organizer also got the maps, posters, drawings, etc. put away in a VERY strategic place. IF she forgets, someone will find them one day and be in for a surprise.

Board Member was given some binders, and she and Scullery Maid cleaned them up. They had been on shelves in the clubhouse for decades…about five of them, and needed a once over. They will be used for all of the journaling and scrapbooking. Some will be for the cookbooks. The walk was good for us, and the visit with some neighbors.

Dissectologist did the morning puzzles at 12:30 this morning. It was a little bit of a distraction. The Hermitage has a Lego Orchid kit to put together, also a puzzle with Cardinals. We LOVE Cardinals. That is a possible distraction as well.

Disciple and Camper got out some of the camping stuff for girls camp; sleeping bag, lanterns, camelback, cot, a poncho, etc. They still need to get some other things, but at least they are preparing!

Gardener checked out the tomatoes and strawberries. There are some to pick, but she will wait until dinner time. She also saw a couple of lizards. That is ALWAYS a good thing.

But even with ALL of this, and more, our hearts are heavy. Thirty-five years ago today the “king” walked out of our lives to “find out what he wanted in life,” and for thirty-five years we have tried to deal with this. It was an UGLY day, and just got worse as the time passed. Suicide was never far from our thoughts. We’ve done therapy. We have learned and understand the mind and how it works. We know what to do, what helps or doesn’t help. We also understand, and have been told that “our minds” are SO strong, and we need to program ourselves to deal with it. We try. Since it IS a heart thing, sometimes there is nothing we can do to overpower the heavy feelings. The mind is stronger most of the time, but not when it comes to fighting with the heart. We’ve tried BBQ’s, going places, and other things, but we aren’t able to control our feelings, so it gets ugly. There have been times over the years when we were okay, but the older we get, the harder it is to realize that “happily ever after” isn’t part of our lives. That we don’t have someone to “grow old” with. We wonder if “dreams really do come true?” That while we scurry about on a daily basis with our schedules, duties, projects, etc. there IS something/someone missing in The Hermitage.

Disciple reminds us that ALL things happen for a reason. ALL things have a purpose. Over the years, as we look back we can see how we have all been strengthened. We’ve all become more knowledgeable in our duties, etc. We were called upon to go through things we NEVER thought we would have to do, but we made it. We fought the battle. The trials and challenges were difficult, and we would look at her, “JUST ASK!!!” we demand! Because we didn’t remember standing in THAT line! But Disciple is strong. She would assure us that YES! We did stand in that line. We did agree to go through this. AND while sometimes things have been MORE difficult than we expected, Disciple has guaranteed that we are ALL different than we were thirty-five years ago. We are SO much more than we were. We are stronger, AND we ALL made it to this point. We LOVE the faith that Disciple has. She carries us. She has MORE faith than all of us together. SHE knows! SHE is strong where the rest of us are weak. SHE is a blessing in The Hermitage. She also reminds us that our prayers have ALWAYS been answered. EVERY single time! She reminds us that guardian angels have always been there to help us, and have saved us from doing the unthinkable. She reminds us that we have been comforted and protected all of our lives. Disciple is SO strong.

So as we press through this “anniversary” and try to remember the good things, the positive things, and family and friends, we know we are SO blessed, and we are SO grateful! This too shall pass. Tomorrow is another blessed and joyful event. That’s how it is in The Hermitage. Extreme lows and highs!

 24 May2025…or…5.24.25 Yes, we love palindromes.

Life in TheHermitage has been ALL over the spectrum, and for a myriad of reasons. It has definitely been a rollercoaster the last month.

Mid-April One of us cut ourselves TWICE shaving our legs; left leg, just below the knee, and the outside of the ankle. It wasn’t bad really, BUT it started a HUGE storm of issues. The Witch Doctor did her thing as usual, however, both cuts continued to worsen in weird ways. The Witch Doctor was trying everything. Peroxide, Neosporin, Cortaid/Cortizone, ETC., however, more and more eruptions were surfacing faster than most of us thought should be happening. Two days later Gardener was stabbed in the arm by a tree she was removing from the ground. One of the brittle limbs broke off in her right forearm and left all kinds of debris. THEN that area had eruptions going on. And then it spread to other areas. And while the leg and arm pretty much healed within a week, the other didn’t. We were awoken many nights, when we actually got to sleep, by intense itching. Nothing helped really. Although sometimes it did. We were ALL beginning to wonder if this was some psychosomatic illness like those in the past. It got SO bad that Witch Doctor threw in the towel and suggested we visit someone with a higher degree of knowledge. Not having had a “regular” GP since 1996, Chauffeur took us to the local “urgent care” on Wednesday, the 14th. They wouldn’t see us even though we have been going there since 2012. “I’m sorry. We don’t take Medicare (Radiology did last August!) or the secondary you have with it.” Whatever! Hmmm…what to do? We were NOT going home without seeing someone. Communicator pulled out the transmitter of conversations, ETC., and called Medicare…who transported her to United Health Care…who said she couldn’t do anything until October! OCTOBER!!! We are having a birthday very soon. A BIG ONE! What the heck?!?!?! She asked why we didn’t update last October? Perhaps someone should have alerted us to an update! Alas, she explained that our PCP (we didn’t know we had one) wasn’t too far and to go there. Chauffeur drove the carriage right there, and they took us right in. To say we were ALL stunned would be an understatement. However, Disciple was NOT surprised, stunned, shocked, or anything else. She “KNEW” this had all happened for a reason and was impressed, and in awe of God’s hand in our lives…AGAIN. She always knows. Always sees these things.

Well, they took blood, a LOT of it. Yes, we peed in the little cup. AND THEN, close your eyes, we had THAT dreaded test. They asked the last time we had had one? We guessed it was about 1983 or so. They were unimpressed. We explained that since most of “THAT” was removed in late 1983, what was the point?! While the doctor, SHE is AMAZING by the way, somewhat agreed, she also explained some other things she thought We should know. And that test was done. Insert eye roll,etc. The office staff called saying they needed to do THAT test again, as the lab said it “wasn’t viable!” WHAT THE HECK?!?!?! Decades without having one and now two in a week. Not only were we NOT impressed, now we were in panic mode thinking the worst. The mind is something not to be messed with, and in The Hermitage, where there are MANY, MANY minds, it does get out of control more than any of us would like to admit. AND it was. This was on Saturday, and by Monday morning, most all of us were freaking out. The ONLY one who was anywhere near calm was Disciple. She tried to calm the rest of us by having a constant prayer going on, but a couple of us weren’t having it. It seems to be a common consensus that some of us just like to FREAK OUT unnecessarily. And we waited for the results. She did give us an Rx, and THAT seemed to be helping.

They called and asked us to come in early Thursday morning, the 22nd. Most of us were calm, a few were anxious. They weighed us, AGAIN…down two pounds from…well, never mind. Took our blood pressure, which was 120/80. That was okay. Then the doctor came in. She said, “All of your tests were normal, or better!” WOOHOO!!! She also said our Vitamin D levels were remarkably high and was impressed. She said most people have low Vitamin D levels. We told her we are outside a lot. Anyway, she said to keep doing what we are doing. In the meantime, finish taking the Rx, and enjoy life. We thought some of our problems had to do with TOO much sugar, so we haven’t had any, other than what comes naturally in food, for several weeks. That wasn’t the problem, but we haven’t indulged either. The problem is a dormant virus that pops out under weird circumstances, AND this was one of those circumstances. Everything is undercontrol, and all is well.

Mother’s Day was very nice. Disciple was taken to breakfast by the two oldest, their SO’s and Chris. Then they went to Church and sat with her. Time is one of THE MOST important things. Everyone is SO busy with life, that spending time with each other is almost nonexistent. When someone gives of their time THAT is a precious, and extra meaningful gift. Appreciated more than anything else.

Three birthdays this month! Lucas was 14! Can hardly believe that…Where does the time go? Jenny’s was the 20th, and Mike’s is the 28th. A lot going on with those and the holidays.

Board Member has been busy with new trees, irrigation, and street cleaning.

Gardener has “thought” about transplanting plants to larger pots, and taking care of some of the things in the backyard, however, when she was helping Builder and Painter, they ALL got sunburned, and they are laying low for a bit. It will either have to be early morning or late afternoon.

Employee was asked to set-up the photo booth for the 8th grade dance on the 16th. When she went into the office, there were new employees…and they didn’t want to let her in. However, she made a call, and her escort came up and retrieved her. She was also able to see some of the friends she worked with there. It was a fun morning. AND God’s hand was there…And brought about another “story” for us to relate later. We are always intrigued by this.

Chris had a “Trail Life” awards meeting. He received four awards, like the other boys, but received a special one that only one other boy received. It is the “Worthy Life Award” and focuses on the “FourD’s;” Devotional, Discipleship, Disciplines, and Demonstration. It is something they work on with family, or at their church. So, Grandmomma was excited for him to receive this.

Organizer is back at it, and we are ALL filled with hope again. She was moving furniture, with help from others in The Hermitage. She bagged up things to donate. Organized the armoire. Figured some things out, and is organizing drawers. She told Employee that since she is no longer working there isn’t a “need” for ALL OF THESE CLOTHES! Half the time NONE of us gets dressed. We sometimes stay inour pjs all day. So, she is on a rampage to clean out and get rid of a lot. Yes, SOME of us are freaking out!

ALL of us in The Hermitage are thinking of those who gave their lives for our country. A year or so ago, Family Historian discovered that several ancestors are buried at The Normandy American Cemetery and Memorial. We have ancestors who fought in all of the American wars, and some gave all. We will be thinking of them on Monday.

We are SO blessed and grateful. Life is so precious. Health is as well. We have seen many prayers answered, we’ve seen God’s hand in our lives here in The Hermitage and elsewhere. May you be blessed, and grateful.

 11 May 2025

 

Mom died seven years ago today. We will be reflecting on this today.

 

Happy Mother’s Day to ALL women, for we are ALL nurturers in so many ways. In our lives we “mother” many. Mothering is nurturing and caring for others, compassion, selflessness, sacrifice, and so MUCH more. Even though a mother is usually thought to be someone who cares for her children, they can also be children of a spouse, or adoption, or relatives. They can be children of a friend. And then there is the other end of the spectrum, where you are “mothering” your parents. 

 

Mother's Day is difficult for many. I know there are many women who haven't had the opportunity yet to be a mom. They mother the children of others, but motherhood has eluded them so far. They have the desire. They have the want. They have the qualities of being magnificent moms, but for some reason, it isn't their time...yet. Our hearts go out to those women who have wanted to be mothers since they were children, who yearn to be mothers, and those who have lost children through miscarriages, or stillbirth. There are those whose time hasn’t come, and may not come. Our hearts ache for your desires to be mothers. And then those who have never had the opportunity for one reason or another. Then there are those who become pregnant, and make the incredibly loving, and amazing choice to give their baby to someone else who may be able to better care for it. My heart aches for these women. We pray for them daily. We pray for miracles in their lives and the blessings they bring.

 

In the fall of 1954 a mother of two boys had a decision to make. I have no idea how difficult it was to make, nor do I know the choices and consequences which came later. I don't know what she went through because of all the choices she made, but I know she told me that she never stopped thinking of me. Because of her choices, another woman was given the opportunity to have a baby. One woman gave me life and the other raised me.

 

We have read about many mothers over the years; in the scriptures, books, magazines, and countless news articles, etc. Some are held in places of honor in The Hermitage; Heavenly Mother, Eve, Mary the mother of Christ, Sarah, and others. Mothers who sacrifice and give their all to their children. Mothers who have lost their children to death, accidents, disease, wars, etc. All have a place of honor. 

 

Those of us in The Hermitage have seen thousands of mothers throughout our lives; from hovering mothers to free-range mothers, doting mothers, and those who seem to have forgotten that they are mothers. Mothers who parent, and mothers who want to be “friends” with their children. Mothers come in all shapes, sizes, colors, cultures, etc. Most do the best they can. Some follow their mother’s examples, and some use those examples, and do things differently. 

 

Motherhood is not easy. There is really no instruction book or manual…really. We’ve read so many books on motherhood and raising children. We’ve learned that they don’t always work for your children. AND while trying to do what others have done, CAN work, EVERY child is different. Queen has four children and while in some ways they may have similarities, for the most part they are each their own person and completely different from each other. To do one thing with one, won’t work with the others. AND while they are ALL raised in the same home, with the same rules, foods, people, etc. they ALL turn out different. They may have the same opinions on some things, yet differ in others. Some like certain foods and others won’t touch it. Trying to keep a status quo in a home is sometimes beyond means. With several personalities, just keeping them all going forward, speaking kindly, no fighting, no crying, no pouting, no “stink eye” looks, or anything else, is asking a lot. Trying to keep them from “breathing each other’s air” can be trying. The eyes in the back of your head are in constant surveillance. AND when there is silence, you KNOW something is going on. You just know. Some days it works, and some days it is beyond asking. 

 

When Queen was a child, she wanted to have children one day. She wanted four children, two boys and two girls. Babysitting prepared her for the future. When she was 11 she started babysitting. She frequently watched the four children who lived next door, and another two houses down. At 13 there were several homes where she babysat. This continued on through her teenage years. She didn’t just “babysit” but was taught and encouraged to do more than just tend children. She babysat two most frequently, and would take the boy with her, driving to the coast highway to pick up the little girl at the Montessori school, and bring them both home. Then would fix dinner while the two would do their homework or play. After dinner, she would get the kitchen cleaned up, make sure the playroom was cleaned up, and they were bathed and ready for bed. A story was read, maybe two, and they were in bed. There were several other sets of children she babysat at this time, for various families always fixing dinners, cleaning, playing games, teaching/helping with homework, etc. She felt like a mother to most of them.

 

Our hearts also ache for single mothers and single dads. It's frustrating and difficult to raise children alone. We know. Sadly, when we are out we hear their frustration in the way they talk to these little spirits they brought into the world. We feel bad for their situation. It breaks our hearts to hear the words they use and the tones in which they use these words. Yet, these children know that this is their mother. This is the woman they look to for everything. They trust her. Follow her. Do what she says. Rarely question. They take whatever abuse is dished out. They love her. No matter what. The struggle is heartbreaking. At one time they wanted these children, and then something happened, and now they take it out on them. And this goes for single dads as well.

 

There were years when we hated it. So many trials and challenges we never thought we stood in line for, however, we can look back and see the wisdom and blessings. It was the hardest thing we have ever done, but we have NEVER hated being a momma, ma, mom, or mommy. We have always loved each of our four children. We weren’t the perfect mom. Some days were good. Some were not so good. Some may have been horrible. But it wasn't them. It was us. Parenthood isn't easy. But we gave it our best shot. We gave our all. While there were times when we wanted to quit, we didn't. We may have tried, but we didn't leave them. These four children, now adults, and amazing adults at that, make us proud. We love them with all of our hearts, and they have ALL blessed our lives in more ways than anything in the world. They are the treasures of The Hermitage. They are the jewels in our crown. Families are forever and we are SO thankful for that. We are SO thankful they chose Queen to be their mother, and hope they are happy with the choice they made. Queen is forever grateful to have learned SO much from them. The rest of us in The Hermitage are thankful for our part in their lives. What a blessing it has been.

 

So here's to all of you out there who do what you can day in and day out, in the life of a child, yours or someone else’s, to make life happen, and a child happy. Who give your all through struggles, crying, helplessness, and everything else. Enjoy the laughter, the joy and hold onto the memories. Hugs. Love. Happiness.

 

The following thoughts and poem are written by someone else, but we liked them. Hope you will too.  

FROM MOTHER TO MOTHER 

A spirit child is set to go

And says goodbye to its Mother.

With Father’s blessing it is passed

To the waiting arms of another.

For one brief moment, time stands still,

Then the exchange becomes complete. 

The new mom counts fingers and toes;

How tiny are these hands and feet!

The baby yawns. The mother smiles.

She could not love this baby more.

She thanks her God for sending her

The miracle she’s waited for.

She wonders what her baby thinks,

As she looks into baby’s eyes.

It almost takes her breath away

How a newborn could look so wise.

How much does a child remember

Coming down from heaven to earth?

What memories of its former life

Does a baby retain at birth?

Each baby born is heaven-sent,

Fresh from Heavenly Mother’s care.

She knows, as she sends them to Earth,

The trials they must suffer there.

.

How She must feel, sending us here;

Perhaps a mother understands.

Each time a new baby is born

Another child is changing hands.

One in heaven, one on Earth, 

Two mothers watch as each child grows,

United in love for their child,

For love is what a mother knows.

— by Bonnie Lake Bloomfield, 5/8/24

 

Be gentle with your Mother…

There are times that a quick, short answer jumps out of your mouth. Full of sharp edges that draw blood. And you look away so you don’t need to see the pain you know you caused.

Half of what she does, you don’t understand. The things she allows leave you cold and irritate you. 

One moment you want to fold her in your arms, the next you wish you could just shake her a bit.

One day it will all make sense to you.

The things she never told you about, are the very things that hollowed out her insides and then built her up again, so she can carry more and more where no-one can see the weight. Those things that sometimes break her where you can actually see it, even though you prefer not to.

Her eyes notice everything, yet she keeps so much to herself. She steps back and offers her hope for the sake of her child’s happiness. The gratitude she deserves for doing that is far and few between, yet her flame of gratitude reaches close to the Heavens.

Should you be blessed enough to still have her breathing the air of this earth, it’s time you start digging in your gratitude-archives and find the warmth in your heart, the forgiveness in your voice and the same amazement you had as a toddler for her. I beg of you to please, today and every day, be gentle with your Mother.

Because the day will come that her morning greeting will no longer be.

Her words “I love you my child” will no longer be.

Her voice will no longer be heard. 

All that will be left are memories…

Be gentle with your Mother   

 : Author Unknown

9 May 2018 

Update, although there hasn't been any change. Her body is swelling more, which is the only real change, but normal.

I have heard people over the years say, "They died peacefully in their sleep." Well, I understand that now. She has basically been asleep since Friday evening. No movement except she is breathing and her heart is beating.

I've had people ask, "How are you so strong?" Well, I'm not. I have my moments. But I do have great faith and I know what happens when we die. I know there are angels surrounding us; some are those we see wherever we are, and others we can't see. I know the ones we can't see are those who have "left the building" over the years; parents, grandparents, siblings, aunts/uncles, cousins, etc. as well as those who will join the family in the future. She has asked many times, "Why am I the only one left?" She had one sister and six brothers. Besides her, she has one brother left. Her dad had six sisters and three brothers, SO she had a LOT of cousins. Not to mention all the in-laws and many, many friends from all over the world. Yes, there are many waiting for her on the other side.

I could be wrong, BUT I think her greatest friendship was with her sister. They had such a love for each other, maybe because they were the only girls with 6 brothers. But I know she didn't understand much a year ago when Doreen died, and kept calling up there. Then she didn't use the phone much anymore as there wasn't anyone to call...and finally quit all together because she didn't understand what a phone was.

Tomorrow, 10 May 2018, it will be a week since she has eaten or had anything to drink. The timeline is sketchy and I firmly believe that God is the only one who knows when we will arrive and when we will leave. I believe we all have a specific time and it won't be less than what it is. I trust God.

Besides the angels on the other side, I have, it seems, countless angels in my life. I have my incredible family; immediate and extended. AND I have ALL of you! I feel your prayers, your thoughts and receive strength from all of you. I'm thankful to everyone who has reached out and lifted me in many ways. There are those who are having a hard time reading these updates as it reminds them of things they went through. I receive calls and love. I love you too! This is hard. I'm so thankful for the full life she has had. Last Wednesday mom was playing catch with the others at the care home, racing around with her walker, taking walks up and down the street, teasing, laughing and the light was bright. The light is almost gone here. I know that it is shining brighter on the other side, and when it is out here, will be full and luminous on the other side. She will be greeted by a multitude of family and friends...I will be happy for her. She has been waiting for this reunion.

I told her when I left tonight that everyone was waiting; my dad, her mom and dad, Doreen, her grandparents...and the plane. She has been waiting for this last plane ride...I'm sure it will be soon.

Thank you ALL again for sharing your love, thoughts, prayers and strength.

 9 May 2025

Writer is posting a short post BEFORE the extra L O N G post for Mother's Day.

Only some of the family were here for the First Sunday Family dinner on Star Wars day. We also had some special visitors for a few minutes, who brought over cake! Thanks Liv and Lainey.

Meteorologist reported that we had a record amount of rain at the beginning of the week. Apparently we broke a 60 year record! It was nice.

Disciple went to lunch with several of the sisters she works with on her Thursday Mid-shift at the Temple. That was fun. Then she was torn on Tuesday evening. There was a Garden Tea Party at one chapel. A JustServe meeting at another. AND another JustServe Zoom meeting at The Hermitage. Because of her Calling as the Stake JustServe Specialist, the tea party was out as well as the zoom meeting. Can't be everywhere...sadly.

Angelo came over on Wednesday and we worked hard until about 5:30 on the, dare we say, "Love Shack?!?!" Everytime he needed something for it, it was produced from somewhere, and it was quite amazing. Painter needs to paint now, and Artist will add her touch, then Decorator will begin her work. Scavenger collected the 8 doors from various places, and even worked a deal on two of them. So, ALL the doors were free. That was a bonus. AND Angelo gave of his time, which ALL of us in The Hermitage appreciate MORE than we can express! Chef and Baker will have to make treats for when we are out there meditating, sitting, etc. Gardener will need to plant things in the backyard now and dress it up with Landscaper! We can't wait to see what happens next!

Family Historian went down SEVERAL rabbit holes this week, going back to the year 88! Yes, that is correct. It is not a typo. Vitilaus des Hérules born abt. 88 in Alamania. Died in Heruli, Italy. Because of her work, Disciple was able to do work for King Harold II of England (born in 1022) and Edith of Wessex (born in 1030) Queen's 27th great grandparents! Those of us in The Hermitage have felt their presence ALL week and it was interesting, to say the least. So, that was fun! She also did work for Duclina Mac Donald born 888 in Scotland!

Queen had her hair done today so it would "look nice for Mother's Day" as her hairdresser said. And it does. Queen's oldest are taking her to breakfast for Mother's Day, then going to Church with her. She is ABSOLUTELY beside herself over this!!! Time is something she cherishes more than anything, and when others give of themselves, she feels SO blessed! She is absolutely giddy!

Now for the "Redistribution" of this week's findings. Until later...press forward.

 5 May 2025

Chauffeur drove across town with Grandmomma to help out by picking up Chris. As Grandmomma walked to the door of the school, she noticed something on the curb and thought, "IS THAT WHAT I THINK IT IS?!?!?!" As she bent down with Photographer to get a picture, the tail moved. YEP! IT SURE IS!!! WHOA!!! They did NOT think it was that big. The body was a little bigger than a quarter. However, the two security guys thought it was huge. Grandmomma explained that she has seen them three times this size. Nevertheless, they were going to kill it. She was sorry she told them. She asked, "IF there is a cup, I'd be happy to catch it and release it in the bushes." Both of the security guys were a tad shocked. However, it scurried into a crack between the curb and the sidewalk. Thankfully.

Chris was totally impressed and wanted Photographer to "SHOW" everyone he knew the photo.

We drove to his house talking about his day, the rain, spelling words, scripture for the week, and him eating his granola bar and drinking his pineapple...whoops, the electricity just went...oh! Back on...but the clocks are now blinking...squirrel!!! juice.

It has been raining most of the day. It's sort of awesome!!! AND of course we are in a flood watch. That isn't unusual. However, it is washing out ALL of the homeless encampments in the tunnels under The Strip casinos and hotels. We did drive through several flooded areas going from one side of Vegas to the other. Ahhh...but the sound of rain at The Hermitage is lovely.

 2 May 2025

Hard to believe we are in MAY! Meteorologist said it is supposed to rain for the next five days! Hmmm...We wonder IF it really will.  Gardener will be pleased if it does. She mowed, reseeded the front yard, added another sprinkler, and cleaned things up. The mower started on the first pull, and she was excited! AND so was her shoulder!

They poured the walk in the alley behind the house! It is AWESOME! AND it is wonderful to not be awoken by them at 6:30AM! Two bonuses! 

Scullery Maid was busy early on in the week. She was getting things ready for Chef to prepare for Sunday's dinner on...TADA...May the Fourth be with you! HAHAHA!!! Baker WILL be doing something with that, YOU can be sure of that. She IS kind of squirrely at times. 

Family Historian went down a rabbit hole twice this week! She found Great Grandparents 30 generations back! They are from Scotland, Norway, Sweden and France and were born in the early 800's!!! WOW! She already knew we are related to Henry VIII, but these were new to her. AND their names are fascinating. William "The Lion," King of Scotland born about 1142. His father was Henry of Scotland, 3rd Earl of Huntingdon born 1114. Then a 27th Great Grandfather Guillaume Ier 'Longue-Épée' de Normandie comte de Rouen AKA William Longsword born in 892 in France. A 20th Great Grandmother Constance de Penthievre, Duchess de Bretagne born in France in 1166. Family Historian was intrigued by all of the fascinating names and people, looking up several of them to learn more. Queen finally told her she needed to take a break as she was interrupting those who were trying to get their duties done within and without The Hermitage. She kept yelling, "CHECK THIS ONE OUT!!!" It is interesting though.

Board Member has been busy this week. She helped fix one of the camera's at the Clubhouse, went to the board meeting (the Executive Meeting was NOT the usual. She was still angry days later), tore out some of the old irrigation lines with the board member across the street, AND helped him fix a pothole with a bag of asphalt. That was a new one. Now we are the road repair crew! 

Queen had an eye appointment this week. He's a great guy and it turned out that he is an 8th cousin! He immediately sent a text to Queen's youngest! Oh the things we get excited about! 

From there Chauffeur took Queen on an errand to see the oldest daughter. It was National Hairstylist Day and they took her a bag of her favorite treats and goodies! She was pleasantly surprised, and it was fun! 

Disciple spent most of Thursday at the Temple and it was absolutely wonderful. She loves leaving the world behind and entering a more peaceful sanctuary. She saw a friend that she hasn't seen in about 40 years! Also another one she has known for at least 45 years and sees now and then at the Temple. She loves working in the Temple each week and has become close to the sisters she works with. They have become family. 

Chef planned dinner for Sunday. She saw a recipe and thinks she may try it. Mexican White Trash Casserole. Basically white chicken jalapeno cream cheese enchiladas. Should at least be tasty. She may even make some Spanish rice, and refried beans. Baker has a surprise up her sleeve for dessert. 

We have ALL been weepy, AND just figured out why. Now we get it. Anyway, we are all basically fine. 

All of us have collected things this week as usual. Writer never knows what they have collected until she posts them. So, here we go! Writer has learned over the last few years that people read what she writes. Because they don't comment, she was NOT aware of this, however, they mention this fact, and it comes as a surprise. SO thank you, friends! Wishing you all a great week, until next time.