Mama Says

I had a great Christmas. As usual, I was working up until the last minute to get everything accomplished. And everything I tried to cook today seemed like a fail, but it was because of lack of time. I went to my sister-in-law’s for lunch, but had to cook a turkey for dinner. So I put the turkey in a slow oven at 11:30 . We were supposed to eat at 5:00. I planned to return home around 2:30 and turn the oven up higher. I returned at 3:00 and uncovered the turkey and turned the oven up. Then I mixed up Pumpkin Hallelujah. You are supposed to pour melted butter over the top. I melted the butter in the microwave, took it out and put it by the cake on top of the stove. I got interrupted, left the kitchen, came back and put the cake in the oven, and set the timer. I came back to the kitchen, checked the timer and still had 1 and ½ minute to go, and spotted the melted butter. Oh no!! It was time to leave. I knew I wasn’t taking that to the dinner. So I poured the butter over the top, turned the oven off, and left it in the oven. I figured it was ruined anyway so what the heck. When I got home, I took it out of the oven, it looked okay (not burnt) so I tasted it. It tasted wonderful! So, while the family didn’t get to taste it, I’m left with the whole wonderful thing!! (not that I need any of it.) Thank goodness it is a favorite of both of my girls.

One of my presents was handmade rockers for my front porch. I was tickled pink, they are so nice. And the fact that they were made by Chris, my cousin, co-worker and friend, makes them extra special. And Aleta also helped him. Wow! That too adds a special touch to a special gift. I may have to share this gift though. I think Pumpkin, our cat, has already laid claim to one of them.

I’ve learned over the years, that perfect gifts don’t always have to be costly. This year, I knew that I had found the perfect gift for Rheba. She is always talking about breeding horses, which studs that she wants to breed her mares to, the horses in their backgrounds, etc. I always like to give books as gifts. One of Jackie’s most prized gifts was The Complete Bloodhound Book. He wasn’t into reading, and I had always loved reading. I always had a book in my hand. When I gave him that book, I think he read it cover to cover, and used it for a reference whenever a question came up about his bloodhounds. 

Back to Rheba’s gift. I was searching the internet for any books about quarter horses. I found there was a book called Legends: Outstanding Quarter Horse Stallions and Mares. Further research revealed there was a whole series of books. So I went to Abe Books and found the first three in the series. I spent less than $25.00. And she LOVED them!! Score for mom!!

I had a wonderful Christmas, spent time with family, friends, and met some new friends. I am tired and feel like I need another week off just to recover. Unfortunately, it’s back to work on Tuesday.