JUST THINKING

Leland and I spent the day together and it was lovely. We did some errands in the morning and then spent the afternoon watching NCIS, catching up on paperwork,  and reading.

Because I have been avoiding the news somewhat I didn't realize until today that the Philippines was devastated by a horrific typhoon and many lives were lost.  How very, very sad. One realizes how fragile life is. I have experienced two earthquakes and they are frightening. The second and largest was in Mexico City. I panicked but Leland calmly informed me that that was "counter productive". I calmed down but insisted on walking down nineteen flights of stairs with Laura in Leland's arms, to the lobby. One couple had been stuck in the elevator and were desperately in need of a stiff drink. One young man had only a hand towel covering his private parts. We were a motley group but found solace in one anothers' company.  We eventually climbed back up to our room and went to bed. In the morning Leland operated the flight out of there and we haven't been back since.

I am restraining myself from buying Christmas decorations because I donated a bunch of stuff to Goodwill last year. I will concentrate on spending time with our guests, Laura and Joe, Jennifer and Bud and Greg. When the children become adults and have their own lives we as parents learn to share them.  Last year Laura and Joe were with Joe's parents, Sandy and Richard Galloway and his two sisters. They did manage a visit at Thanksgiving and we were so grateful.  I am just delighted that Joe's parents live nearby Laura and Joe. It comforts me that Laura has all of them in her life. And, Laura's dearest and best friend, Dr. Kate Hewitt and Kate's boyfriend, Alec get together whenever possible.  They live in Charleston. We consider Kate and her parents' family. When Laura told us that she wanted to move to Charlotte we were taken aback but supported her wholeheartedly. She didn't know a soul there and didn't have a job but it was something she needed to do. It was either there or San Francisco where she had friends so we were thankful she choose to be nearer. The bottom line is, that she has made a wonderful life for herself there and we are so proud of her. She spread her wings and flew away but it was the best decision for her. We talk briefly every day so that keeps Mom and Dad in the loop. Happily we will be celebrating her 30th birthday with her on January 17th - yippee!!

This recipe was a Christmas staple for many years: SWEET POTATO CAKE

One cup butter

Four eggs

Three cups mashed sweet potatoes (canned yams)

Three cups flour (sifted)

Two Tablespoons baking powder

One teaspoon salt

One teaspoon baking soda

Two cups sugar

One Tablespoon cinnamon

1/2  teaspoon nutmeg

1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans

Cream butter and gradually add sugar until mixed well. Beat in eggs one at a time. Beat well. Add potatoes and spices. Add sifted flour, beat. Add baking powder and soda. Fold in nuts. Pour into a large greased and floured tube pan. Bake at 350 degrees for one hour. 

Tomorrow night is bunco night. There are twelve of us that get together at the club house once a month Why not plan a little bunco party at your home and serve the above with some festive eggnog. A great start for the holidays'.

'