Sunday

Here it is Sunday again so soon...It just seems like the time flies by any more...Of course we had Bible study again this morning, but this time we had it in Allen Hall....The weather is nice today and very cool...The study this morning was from Zechariah again with the theme of"God is talking to his Church, are we listening ?"...This study is very interesting with something to think about...After the lesson we had Communion which was very good as we haven't had it for quite a while...

We have had a few more of the Magnolia Family come in for the coming season...I won't name them cause I would forget some one...Just keep looking for new ones in the pictures that I will be adding in the coming days...If you hurry you can get in the pictures quicker...HA HA...

Tuesday Morning Coffee

The little hall was full this morning at coffee time...There was people coming in every few minutes or so...A couple even stayed standing....I messed up by not remembering to bring my camera to catch it all...I tried counting a couple of times by never did get an accurate count...There were close to 30 at least with much laughter and catching up on all the news from up NORTH and when they thought some one else would be coming in...It was nice to see more of the Magnolia Family coming home for the winter...Some were suffering with the heat here and were not use to it yet....I said that at least they won't freeze for sure....We may have to move over to Allen Hall next week whither we want to or not....I will try to take my camera next week and get a few shots for the blog....

News from up North

I recieved this E-mail and will share it with you...I love to get this kind...

Hi Don & Marilyn,

Hope things are good in Magnolia Park..... It is cool here in Upper Michigan-----about normal temps for this time of year.....We are starting to think about the trip back to our Texas home.....I hope the Dr. releases me soon so I can start packing.

I'd like to say thank you to all of the people from Magnolia who sent me get well cards, e-mailed me, and called me after ( and before) I had my heart bypass surgery.....We knew we had a lot of good people there and how kind they were to me proved we were right.....Sometimes we don't know what a small gesture like a card or a quick phone call means to someone.....But believe me it means a LOT.....It was greatly appreciated......We are anxious to get back and see everyone.

See you in Magnolia.
Love, Naoma Pratt

Sunday at Magnolia

The weather is continuing to be rather warm here in deep south Texas and today is no different...I think it got down to 80 degrees last night and will be in the 90s today....Just what do you think of that when you are freezing up NORTH Magnolia family???..You know that you want to come on down and enjoy the warmth with us...HA HAl..

Of course we had Bible study this morning in the little hall...The air-conditioner was trying to keep us cool and almost was succeeding....The lesson this morning was from Zechariah and "God's plan for the Church" a great study...After Bible study there was breakfast to be had by all that desired it....They brought every thing over from Allen Hall to the little hall because it was too hot over there...I guess it will cool off sooner or later...

Saturday Sale at Magnolia

This was the kickoff of the first of the month garage sales for Magnolia for the coming season....It was a small sale but a very successful one...Lots of articles were sold and lots of laughter was had from all...Don Howard made pork bar-b-cue sandwiches served with chips and a big piece of cake and coffee for all that were hungry...It was a nice start for the new season and will only get bigger when all the family comes in from their up NORTH vacation...We are having a few come in slowly...I won't name them all cause I would forget some one , I just know that if you are still up NORTH you are missing the warmth of the weather down here...HA HA...We're looking for you....

Don and Suzy dishing up Food

Garage Sale

People Update

Late this afternoon Don Howard told me that he had taken Barbara to the Dr. about noon....The Dr. saw her and put her in Knapp Hospital in Weslaco...Her blood pressure was very high and they needed to get it down quickly...Don said that by late afternoon when he talked to me that it had come down a little be was still very high...I just know that she needs the Magnolia Family to pray for her at this time....I will let you know more when I find out something more....

I also received this E-mail that I will share with you...I think this is good news..

Hello to all--

Barney Thompson just called to say that Bernice was on her way home!!!..Yippee, so glad she is better....We sure hope she gets better now..Thought you would like to know.

Kay Voss

Info for you

I received this E-mail and will share it with you all...

Hello to all--

I just talked to Bernice Moritz , and she has been in the hospital for 2 weeks!,,, This time it apparently was a bad reaction to her meds,started out with a whole body rash and got worse from there.,,,,She was transfered to McKennen in Sioux Falls on Sunday.,,,,I am sure prayers and cards from her friends would help her a lot.,,

Kay Voss

About Shirley Benner

I had an e-mail from Mabel Zoet and she said Shirley and Roy had been to visit them and said Shirley was waiting for breast cancer surgery in the next 2 weeks. I hope everyone remembers her with thoughts and prayers while she has the surgery and probably treatment.
Sharon

Sunday Service

Here it is Sunday again and the start of a new week at Magnolia...We have had a few more members of the Magnolia family come in this week and trying to get settled for the coming season...It takes a little while for every one to get every thing cleaned and working like you want it after the summer...

Of course we had Bible Study this morning with 17 in attendance in the little hall...It won't be too much longer before we will have to have services in Allen Hall...All we need is a few more to fill the little hall and we will have to move...I hope the cool weather shows up as the attendance grows....This morning the Study was from Zechariah again on "Gods Messengers to the Church"...A great study...

Coffee Day

Tuesday Morning is always coffee time at Magnolia and we have had good attendance for as few people that there is in the park...We are always wanting to catch up on what's going on in the park or if anyone has heard from up NORTH family....This morning it was brought up that we will have the first garage sale the 3rd of October...Don Howard is going to fix up his famous Bar-b-cue sandwiches to add to the sale...It looks like the new season is beginning to start...We hear of several members of the Magnolia family that are thinking of coming in the next few weeks, so if you have a mind to ----come on down and join in the fun...We are looking for you....

Coffee Time at Magnolia

Spreading the News

Jerry & Butch

Butch and I played in a golf tournament in Atlantic IA yesterday. We happened to see Jerry and Edna Walker and enjoyed a nice visit. Here Jerry and Butch are catching up on news. Jerry & Edna have several family events to attend this fall as well. Hang in there, we will all get there ASAP!

Sunday at Magnolia

This morning at Bible Study we had 16 in attendance so we are gaining slowly...The lesson this morning was a continuation of the Book of Zechariah, ( Chapter 4 ) with God's in Control...A most needed lesson to be heard at this time of life...

This afternoon the card players were in the little hall playing their hearts out and having fun...It won't be too much longer before I'm sure that the hall will be more crowded with laughter as more of the family comes in for the winter....We are hearing rumors of a few that are planing on coming earlier than usual...HINT HINT....

People Update

From time to time we of the Magnolia Family get to wondering about some of the people that are or were part of the Family and just how they are or what they are doing...I recieved this E-mail and will share it with you....I know I have wondered several times just how various friends that are no longer coming to the park are doing and it is nice to hear from them...


Don, this is Judith and Don, former work campers....and we wanted you to know how much we appreciate the Magnolia blog....we check in every week or so, and so enjoy hearing how everyone is doing....although we are not RV'ing right now, we still love staying in touch with the folks who were such a big part of our journey's...and Magnolia Park was one of our great experiences.....love hearing about everyone...and wanted to let you know that we are doing very well....Don is still painting away, has work in 2 galleries....and other than some minor health issues (growing old isn't for sissies) I am doing well...we are really happy to be settled down, but still do some traveling to the Midwest, and home state Arkansas when we can....living in Florida, of course we have lots of visitors and that is cool too! All our good wishes to everyone, the Magnolia family is always in our thoughts and prayers...

The Raglin's

From Butch and Barb

We would usually be at Magnolia around the 1st of November but this year may be different. Our youngest son (46) is getting married for the first time in October. And now I am helping to get my step-father situated in a nursing home. So these two family happenings may delay us a bit.
It has been great to read all the news about our magnolia family. You have done a great job keeping us all informed, Don. Keep on keeping on!!

News from up North

I received this E-mail that I thought I would share with you just as I got it...

Enjoyed your messages all summer Don-----Just to let the "park" know that Elaine did recover from the spider bit but then had problems with rotator cuff which was operated on last Monday the 14th....The doctor thought he only needed to have three entries but ended up with seven.... It will take about 6 to 8 weeks of slings and therapy.... So guess who is going to be the chief cook and bottle washer.... We will be stopping in Branson, Mo but hope to arrive in Donna about the 13th of November...

LeRoy & Elaine Misfeldt

Tuesday Morning Coffee

This morning at coffee we had 18 in attendance so the little hall had quite a crowd...Yesterday was Dale Flood's birthday so he supplied the donuts for the bunch....Thanks Dale and Happy Birthday!!!..He said that he was 85 years young...Sandra Williams and her family attended for the first time at coffee as a new resident...Welcome to the park Sandra....Things are looking up it seems....

For all us seniors citizens

Link of the Day:

. . . it's that time of year again. . . here's the link to find a flu
shot near you. Nationwide. . . . Just put your zip code into the
search box.

www.FindaFluShot.com

News

I forgot to tell you that Ken Defries (228 Cummings) managed to sneak in the park a day or so ago while with out any one noticing, but I caught him and managed to get a report on his summer...He is doing well and was glad to get back to the Valley....He did say that Marjorie Scott had her hip replaced and is doing very well...She should be down later on in the fall...It's good to see that the Magnolia Family is slowly coming back....


I also received this E-mail and will share it with you...


Hi Magnolia Family,

We have had another get together here in Iowa...This time it was at Mary and Larry Lamb's home....We were celebrating Larry's 70th birthday....We all had a great time....Of course we also had our annual IOWA/IOWA STATE football party at our home in Prairie City, Ia. in which the Magnolia family was there too....GO IOWA!!!!

NEWS FROM THE MIDDLE OF IOWA,

SUSAN VAN HOUWELING

Sunday at Magnolia

Here it is Sunday again at Magnolia....I just don't know where the time goes and it 's not that we are so busy, but it just flies bye....OH well...This morning we had Bible Study again in the little hall with 13 in attendance...Pastor Stacey taught on Zechariah again with the theme of "Vines and Branches and God's Protection"....A very good lesson indeed...I know that soon we will have more in the park and more happenings so bare with us....Keep well...

More News

Yesterday Sandra Williams and her family came in to move in to her new home that she bought from Milo and Mable Swanger (203 Pecos)...You remember that I put the pictures of their new home that they put next to John and Joan Kent...Sandra said that some more of her family will be here in a day or so to help her get settled in...Some of her furniture will be coming in next week....Welcome to the Park Sandra....

I did get this E-mail that I will share with you also...

Hello to Magnolia Park;
We are just now getting summer weather, nice and warm and sunny....Had so much rain this past summer that my tomatoes are just starting to ripen....Swimming is a little cool in Georgian Bay, can't wait to get in the pool at Magnolia....Tom and I have kept up on the Magnolia news and look up people in the Park Book when we can't quite put a face to the names.....Tom and our son-in-laws put a new shower in the cottage, took out the tub which I could not get into with my arthritic knees and put in a glorious shower stall with tempered glass walls and doors.....Oh my it is really nice and no pain when I get into it....Such a treat...We have finished the kitchen at the cottage so we are kicking back now for the rest of the fall....There are a lot of cottages that have been boarded up for the winter but we will stay here until after our Thanksgiving which is October 11th week-end....All the family will be here for Thanksgiving and we will have Christmas complete with tree, turkey and stuffing and gifts with Christmas Carols and Christmas Crackers....Everyone looks forward to it and Tom and I close the cottage and go back to our condo in Brampton....We will leave for Texas on November 27th and head down to "our" park....Looking forward to seeing old friends and making new ones....Can't wait to start practising pool and start swimming laps in the pool in the morning....Until then stay well everyone, we'll see you in a little while.

Judy & Tom Hunt

At the Fair

We arrived yesterday, early afternoon. The fair does not start till Saturday but we come early to get a good campsite and party with friends. Dale and Norma Cooklin and Dick and Leslie Cleaveland are here too. Last night we went for a walk,picked up our fair tickets and then went out to eat. Excellent Chinese restaurant.
We were pleased to learn that the fair has free wifi. So we should be able to post freely as well...with pictures asap!
We had hoped to bring the car this year but we are not geared up yet to tow so left it in Jefferson. That is for all you folks in the area of Spencer that were expecting a visit from us.
Oh yes, we had two new tires put on the MoHo yesterday and after getting a closer look at the remaining ones we ordered four more. They looked much worse than we could see at first. We are warned repeatedly with RV's that the miles are not the important part with tires. It is the age. And five years is old. A blowout on an RV usually includes serious damage to the RV so we want to be as safe from that occurring as possible.
More later...

Tuesday Morning Coffee

We had coffee time at Magnolia Park this morning in the little hall again....We won't use the big hall (Allen Hall) until more of the Magnolia Family comes back from their summer vacation up in cool country..(NORTH)...This morning we celebrated Elmer Anderson's birthday and was treated by him with fresh donuts...Thanks Elmer and Happy Birthday...We had a nice group , but I forgot to count just how many did attend so forgive me...

Don Soole said that he had gotten a message that Bill Stilson was still in the hospital with pain in his back caused by staff infection again...He is on antibiotics and will be at least until the last of the month or longer depending on just how well the antibiotics work...I am sure he might like some phone calls from any of the Magnolia Family that might like to call him...Don said that Bill's room phone number was 419-381-3912 and the best time to call would be around 10 AM central time...Just remember to keep Bill and any other of the Magnolia Family that you think of in prayer....Heaven knows we all need it at some time...

Delbert and Shirley Wiese

I got this E-mail and thought I would share it with you all..

Hi Don

Thanks for the email and the picture of our bougainvillea....With all the hot weather I'm surprised to see how pretty it is....Glad to hear that you have gotten some rain....We could use a nice shower but nothing is really suffering (maybe the hills on the golf course!!!) The crops are lush and beautiful but could use some more heat units to complete the bean crop.

We are both fine and have had a very busy summer....The fishing here this spring was just"fair" but hopefully this fall will be better.....We have done a lot of golfing, enjoyed lots of anniversaries and special birthday parties, and sad to say we have lost several close friends.

Last Friday we traveled to Sioux Falls for our monthly brunch meeting at the "Frying Pan" with our Magnolia friends....I didn't count but around 30 people gathered.....We talked fast and furious and of course the questions,..."Where did the summer go??" and "When are you planning to head south?"


Hope this finds you both well....Again thanks for the nice picture and also for the news.

Delbert and Shirley

About Ed and Eleanor

This message is from Ed and Eleanor's daughter

Ed and Eleanor Piche have just left Northern Ontario to go further north. They are treating themselves to an Alaskan cruise in celebration of their 50th Anniversary and are planning to head back to beautiful Magnolia Park in mid November. Hopefully they will have a lot of pictures of their latest adventure to share with you when they get back to Texas. We have had a rainy, cool summer here and I know they are looking forward to returning to the sunny, drier south.

Regards, keep movin on!

Donna-Rae Stevens

Magnolia Update

I know I know I haven't written any thing for a few days, but you have to know that not too much happens when 98 % of the Magnolia Family is still up NORTH...So I will just let you know when something goes on...

Yesterday morning Herb Jones went to the hospital and had cataract surgery on his eyes as an out patient....He is doing OK today but his eyes are sore and red Pat says...So keep him in your prayers....I can't seem to find any one who knows any thing about Francisco Covarrubias or what hospital they took him to...I don't know how to get a hold of his family so will just keep listening for some word....

Saturday morning Marie Flood is going to have a small garage sale in the little hall..I guess that will start the garage sales for the coming year...Don't know how good it will go over without Don Howard's Barbecue sandwiches though...HA HA...Well at least something is starting to happen in the park anyway...Till next time...

Tuesday Morning Coffee

Coffee and rolls were had by the 14 residents that were at the little hall this morning...As usual there was much talk about any thing new in the park and catch up on what any one had heard from up NORTH family members...Also we celebrated two birthdays at coffee, Don Howard and JoAnne Keyser...Happy birthday was sang and well wishes were given...

On another note the ambulance came in this afternoon and picked up Francisco Covarrubias...I don't know just where they took him at this time but will post it when I do...I know that he sure needs our prayers as he has cancer problems and that isn't good at all...

We did get some rain finally over the last few days, I have taken out of my rain gage at total of 3 inches and 2 tenths so far...It sure is nice to take the dust out of the air...You can almost hear the grass thanking MOTHER NATURE for the moisture...Let's hope that the dry season is over for a while and the rain continues....

From the Stilsons

Bill woke up 2 weeks ago with a really sore back. Went to Chiropractor, doctor and some rehab. Nothing worked. It got so bad he could not walk or stand without yelling. The chiropractor said he had 2-4 herniated discs. They gave him percocet. Did not even phase it. So I took him to emergency room this past Monday. They gave him a shot of morphine, did not relieve the pain at all. They admitted him and did several tests and found out the staph infection had resurfaced and settled in the back. That was the reason for the severe pain. He will be on antibiotics for at least 8 weeks and then a pill a day for the rest of his life. He will not be released from the hospital until he can go without the pain killers and he is mobile. I told him that he would be done in time to go to Texas the middle of November. The doctor heard me and peeked around the corner and said more like Thanksgiving. I thought he was going to go through the urinal at her. I will try and keep you updated on what is going on.
Kay S

Sunday at Magnolia

Here it is Sunday at Magnolia and we started Bible study again...This morning we had it in the little hall with 14 in attendance...Pastor Stacey taught out of Zechariah with the theme of God says " Repent and come back to me "...It was a very good lesson with much to think about....

The bible study must have helped more than we can know because this afternoon we had some rain amounting to almost 1/2 inch with more in some parts of the valley...The forecast calls for possible rain for the next few days so if you would pray that it continues for a while as we sure need the moisture...

News

Well I just had to put this picture in the blog for everyone to see...We have another trailer in the park to fill an empty lot...Milo and Mable Swanger have bought a bigger trailer and put it on the empty lot that was by John and Joan Kent...They have sold their other home in the park and put this one in...I waited until they had most of the things straitened around before I took the picture...It sure looks nice and big...I am sure they will enjoy it..

New Trailer in the Park

Another Update for Naoma Pratt

I just received this E-mail and thought I would share it with the Magnolia Family...


Hi just a quick note, Mom is doing great she ended up with 4 bypasses.... She is sitting up in a chair already and had a few bites of solid food,... She probably will be walking a little yet today.... She is in pretty good spirits!.. Also I wanted to let you know she can receive e-mails here at the Hospital at www.mgh.org ... She has received a few already, and when we go in to see her she shows them to us right away.... Thank you for the prayers! God Bless!

Love Sherri & Eugene

Update

I thought I would give you an update on Bill Saubert...We talked to him and he said that while we were gone he had to go back in the hospital...He was there 7 days...They found that he had a ulcer in the lower part of his stomach and cauterized it...All his other tests turned out just fine....He said that Don Howard took him to the hospital and visited him every day, then brought him home when he was released...He says that he is doing just fine, but he still looks very thin...I told him that he needs to eat more to gain some weight...He just laughed and said that he would try...Keep him in your prayers...

Back in the Park

Well we're back in the park and will post some news now and some latter when I get some pictures.

DON, This is Gavin Alt. I'm the son of Lester and Helen Alt.

Now the NEWS..Friends of the Magnolia Park gathered in Lena, Il. on Aug 13, 14th. 4 campers were at Le-Aqua-Na State Park, with visitors from the area...All enjoyed a cookout on Thursday night.Friday noon a luncheon was enjoyed at "The Rafters" with 22 in attendance....An enjoyable time was then back to the campground for another cookout on Friday evening.... Let me say this, there was NO shortage of food and it was all delicious, 18 in attendance....Plans are in the making for next Aug..

Lester and Helen Alt

Helen Alt is recuperating from having a hip replacement on July 28th. I'm in re-hab and all is going good.

Zucchini Recipe from Kay Stilson

Zucchini Casserole

3 large zucchini (cubed with peel on)
1 large onion (peeled and chopped
16 oz. shredded cheese
1 can cream of celery soup
2 eggs (beaten)
2 tablespoons mayonnaise
2 tablespoons sugar
3 cups bread crumbs
1 stick margarine (melted)

Cook zucchini and onion just until slightly
tender in enough salted water to cover.

Drain and add next 5 ingredients and mix well.
Pour into 9x11 pan. Stir margarine into bread
crumbs and sprinkle over zucchini mixture.

Bake at 350 degrees for 35 to 45 minutes.

From Naoma Pratt

Hi,

I just wanted to let you know that I am going in for heart bypass surgery On August 27. They don't know how many they will repair until they get me open but I have 6-7 blockages. They rarely do them all.

Take care,
Love Naoma

News

I received this E-mail news and thought I would share it with all the Magnolia family...

From Kay V.
I have talked to Bernice Moritz.....she is now happy to be home from the hospital. She had her spleen removed, and had spent most of two weeks in hospitals---Sioux Falls and Spirit Lake. I think she would like cards and e-mails from her friends. Kay Voss

New Season Starting??

With a few people coming back from up NORTH, they wanted to start Tuesday coffee and rolls again so here we are...HA HA..Not a large crowd but more than there has been...It was great to hear about some of the summer activities that has happened to some of the Magnolia Family....



As Marilyn and I are going on a little vacation, I will try to bring a couple of updates for you before we go...Bill Saubert is still in the hospital as of today(Tuesday)...He has had a couple of tests done...One thing is he doesn't have a ulcer in the stomach...They have a quite a time trying to do a colonoscopy but finally he had it today....When I went this afternoon to visit him he still hadn't heard what the results were or when he would be able to go home..Please keep him in your prayers...

Bonnie Peterson is home and doing very well from her hip problem....She is able to get around slowly with a walker, but at least she is home with her dog (buddy)...Both of them are happy...Also keep her in your prayers too...

If any of you send me something by E-mail about the park or of some of the Magnolia Family I will try to get it on the blog...I will try to keep up with my own blog as much as I can...Every one keep safe and healthy....We will be back in a couple of weeks or so....

Tuesday Morning Coffee Started Again

The Rest of the Coffee Crowd

Magnolia News

Thought I would bring you up to date on Bill Saubert...I went up to the hospital this afternoon to see Bill and find out any report...When I got there Bill told me that he was scheduled to have a colonoscopy Sunday morning and was not looking forward to it...I told him no one would be looking forward to any kind of hospital tests but sometimes it's the best thing we can do...He did seem in good spirits, but was ready to come home if he could have...I told him to just let the doctors find out what the problem was and then get it taken care of and maybe Monday he could come home...That seemed to help settle him down and relax him at least for a while....Please keep him in your prayers....

Today I received a note from Eugene and Naoma Pratt...It was so good to hear from them...They are doing well, but I think they were trying to rub it in on me cause they were talking about how cool it's been there...They have only used the air conditioner just a few days....Down here we run the air 24/7 and are glad we have it...HA HA....Naoma said that they went to Derby and Bernice Pratt a few days ago and they were doing well....It's good to hear that they are doing good as I miss them in the park during the winter but understand that they need to be closer to the family at this time in their lives...Keep well everyone...

News for Magnolia Family

I got this E-mail this morning and thought I would share it with you..

Thought I'd write and tell you about our little get together we had in Newton, Iowa at Joe and Lucy Uruas' home, on Wednesday, August 5th....The guest were all winter Texans and there was 8 couples from Iowa and Jasper County!!...Jo and Bill Brooker, Gary Hearl and Linda Smith, Kenny Beaderstadt and Arleen Beach, Max and Dorothy Rayburn, Janet and Jim Rader, Larry and Mary Lamb and Susan and Myron Van Houweling.....It was good to see everyone and we all got caught up on what everyone was doing after leaving Donna for the summer.....We all agreed we were looking forward to being back in Donna and see all the rest of the Magnolia family....So this was our mini Magnolia reunion and we did have lots of laughs and fun!!...With A Smile,,,Susan

Needing Prayer

This afternoon as I was watching TV I heard a knock on the door..I answered the door and it was Bill Saubert..I asked him how he was and he ask if I would take him to see the Dr. tomorrow morning to get some papers and then on to the hospital...He said that the Dr. thinks that maybe he has a ulcer, but needs to do some tests to find out for sure...Bill said that the Dr. didn't know just how long it would take to do the tests and he would be in the hospital for X number of days maybe...I know that Bill was worried about it by the way he was talking...Maybe it will amount to nothing but you never know and I wanted the Magnolia Family to know and start praying for Bill cause you can never do too much of that for anybody..Will write more on this when I find out more.....

People Coming Back Already???

Can it be that this is the start of the new season?? Don and Barbara Howard came in today...They said that they heard of a few others that were going to be coming in the near future...I am not going to say just who I heard cause I don't want to spoil the surprise for them....Don and Barbara are looking good and all smiles...Barb said that she couldn't keep Don away any longer so here they are...I know that Don can take the heat but I hope Barb can...All she has to do is stay in the air just like the rest of us...HA HA..More when it happens...

Magnolia News

Well there's not much new to write about but I will give it a try....I noticed that this morning they were working on the air-conditioner for the office and later saw that they put a brand new one in...I heard that the old one wasn't doing the job so a new one was in order...I just hope that they realize that the one in the little hall isn't the greatest either....I guess we just need to have more people down here and utilizing it so they can hear that it needs replacing also...Just have to wait and see I guess...

I received a note from Harold Shelden by way of Dorothy Wendt so I will put it on for you to see...

I would like to thank all my Magnolia Family for all the cards, thoughts, and good wishes and also those who attended my open house..You made my 95th birthday very special and on I won't forget...Hope to see you all in the winter...Harold Shelden

Lazy Days in Magnolia

The days are just lazy and hot in Magnolia Park this time of the year for sure...The residents are just looking forward to the fall when the rest of the Magnolia Family comes back from their vacation up NORTH...They will tell us here about how COLD is was up there and we can tell them about how HOT it was down here....At least by then maybe it will rain so the air will be cleaner and some of the allergies will be washed out of it...

The card players are still at it though on Sunday , Tuesday and Thursday afternoons, so at least something is going on...Raul came home on Saturday...He came to my house and got his mail and gave us a report on his health...He's doing great and is able to start walking when ever it is cool enough in the morning or late afternoon...He is just happy to be home...Bonnie Peterson is in the Westlaco Rehab Nursing home on 18th St. in Westlaco...She is having a hard time of recovery(pain)...We are going to try to go and see her some time this week and will report more when we do...

Keep praying for all of the Magnolia Family as we never know just who may need it the most or when...

Interest in the Park

Sorry I haven't written any thing for the blog for a few days as I have been under the weather so to speak, but am better now so will try to catch up a little....

This past weekend Edna Nelson's niece (Sandra) and her daughter ( Nancy) were in the park looking at a possible home for Sandra to buy...They looked at several and very interested in a couple of them...I am sure that Sandra would be a great addition to our park...I know that she would be great company for Edna now that Charley is gone...I suspect that we would get to see Nancy once in a while also...They were only here for a couple of days...I got to take their picture Monday morning up at the office as they got keys and permission to look at some places...I started to feel sick in the afternoon and hear that they left sometime then, so don't know if anything was done for sure or not...Just have to wait and see.....

Raul got out of the hospital and is staying at his sister's house in San Bonita for recovery, but is coming along real well....Well that's a start, will try to do better....

Nancy and Sandra Williams

Peach Crisp

Betty Crocker
Peach Crisp-Only 3 ingredients!
Honorable Mention - Contest Recipe 2009! Making fruit crisp has just become the easiest! With three ingredients and 10 minutes, you can have a cozy fruit crisp ready for the oven.
Prep Time: 10 min
Total Time: 40 min
Makes: 6 servings


1 pouch (1 lb 1.5 oz) Betty Crocker® oatmeal cookie mix
1/2 cup cold butter
5 cups frozen sliced peaches, thawed and drained, or 1 can (29 oz) sliced peaches, drained

1. Heat oven to 375°F. In large bowl, place cookie mix. Cut in butter, using pastry blender or fork, until mixture looks like coarse crumbs.
2. In ungreased 8-inch square baking dish or 2-quart round casserole, place peaches. Sprinkle cookie mixture over peaches.
3. Bake 25 to 30 minutes or until topping is golden brown. Serve warm or cool.

Variation
Why just use peaches? Experiment with other fruits or fruit combos.
Nutrition Information:
1 Serving: Calories 650 (Calories from Fat 170); Total Fat 19g (Saturated Fat 10g, Trans Fat 1/2g); Cholesterol 40mg; Sodium 440mg; Total Carbohydrate 113g (Dietary Fiber 5g, Sugars 77g); Protein 7g Percent Daily Value*: Vitamin A 20%; Vitamin C 160%; Calcium 0%; Iron 10% Exchanges: 2 Starch; 1 Fruit; 4 1/2 Other Carbohydrate; 0 Vegetable; 3 1/2 Fat Carbohydrate Choices: 7 1/2
*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.

From Kay & Jim Voss

Hello to all....

well, we made it down to Arkansas for peaches! We left Thurs AM,
picked Friday AM, and left for home after picking.....got here Sat at
230 AM. Whew. Maybe getting too old for such long hours, plus
picking peaches in heat and humidity??? We only got 908 pounds---the
orchard really suffered from the weather this year, 50% of the trees
have died. The farmer does not know if he will replace the trees or
not. It was hard to find the peaches, we had to check out many
trees--usually the trees are loaded with fruit, not this year! The
fruit is good, we hope to sell the remaining at the Tuesday Farmer's
Market.

When we got up Sat morning---we had to pick our own raspberries (6
pounds) plus 12 pounds of peas. Boy the gardens missed us! We had
people coming during the day and evening to pick up peaches---no time
for any naps!! ha

Well, time to get ready for church, Jim is out picking peas again....I
get the job of the raspberries after church while he goes to a trap
shoot. Hope all are well, visit soon.
Kay and Jim


-- It's not what you gather, but what you scatter, that tells what kind of life you have lived.

Magnolia News

On our ride around the park we saw that Jerry and Joan Keyser are in...We haven't talked to them yet to find out how they are but will as soon as we can....

We also found out that some time ago Irene Paulson was working in the garden and fell and injured her pelvis (either broke it or cracked it) and was in the hospital for a while....She is now home recovering and doing well...She is up and walking with a walker but never the less walking around...You might add her to your prayers even if she is doing well....

Lois Terryn told us tonight that Bonnie Petersen was out of the hospital and in a nursing home in Westlaco....She will be there until she is able to walk again...That maybe some time as it will be a slow process...She doesn't have a phone in her room to be able to call her and at this time I don't have her address to be able to write her...I will try to get that as soon as I can and post it....She also needs our prayers

Dry and Hot

Was listening to the news this evening and another record was set again today in McAllen...It was 106 and the old record was 102, so it was hot....But as hot as it is we sure need some rain, most of the Texas rain is all at least 3 to 4 hundred miles north of us...I think that the only thing the plants are living on is the humidity in the air...HA HA...Some of the plants still aren't going to make it though...They say that we only have had about 5 inches of rain the whole year...That makes us about 8 or 9 inches short...Well I guess it will start some time soon, just as long as we don't get a hurricane I will be satisfied...

Poor Thing

News????

Well today I don't have any new news to report in the park, but I will make an observation for your thoughts...A couple of weeks ago something went wrong with the pool system and it had to be shut down...Everyone thought how long is this going to take to get it fixed, but in a couple of days they had someone out here and soon had it running again....Last week the hot tub broke down and sure enough in a couple of days they had someone in to fix it...Both are running just fine now....The grass is all mowed and the park looks just great with nothing broken that I know of....I know that I am well satisfied with what's happening in the park so far....The future looks bright as I see it....I just hope and pray that it keeps on the same track.....

Oh by the way the Valley has broken heat records for 20 times in the last month or so...Some thing to think of...HA HA

Tuesday Morning Coffee

I just want you to know that just because there aren't too many people in the park, we are still having Tuesday coffee....There weren't too many of us but it was good just the same...Herb Jones bought the rolls today...We kind of take turns getting the rolls or donuts...Who ever buys gets the choice...HA HA

On another note when we were taking our nightly cart ride we talked to Tony as he was mowing the yards that he takes care of....He said that he is doing OK and we were glad to hear that...He was all smiles just like always..He is doing a great job on the lawns he has..

On a sad note Pat Jones told us that Francisco Covarrubias (467 Pecos) has bone cancer and prostrate cancer...She said that its kind of hard to communicate with him(language) but that he is home and has a visiting nurse coming to see almost every day....He sure needs our prayers....

News and a Reminder

Just thought I might remind you about Harold Shelden's birthday card shower and open house on August 1st...I originally wrote about it before we went on vacation cause I didn't know just how long we were going to be gone...If you need the address, look in the archives in the blog for June...

We talked to Christina Saldivar (Rauls sister-in-law) tonight about Raul...She said that he had some surgery, was in the hospital , but is suppose to be able to come home tomorrow if the Dr. releases him...That was good to hear, so will be able to find out more when I see him...

I talked to Manuel and he told me that he had scrapped the paint and stencils off of the sign over the door of the Blue Hall and repainted it completely...He said that it took him the whole day to scrape it and then paint it...He is kind of proud of the job that he did....I went over with him and took some pictures of it and reaffirmed that he did an excellent job...It had needed to be done for a long time...See what you think when you look at the pictures...

Redone Sign for the Blue Hall

Blue Hall looking better

News for the Park

Hi Everyone I have been trying to catch up with things around here before I got to much started on the blog...Sorry...I will try to do better..While we were up NORTH on vacation we saw the Cleavelands and had a meal with them at Avoca, Iowa at the Embers Cafe...We always try to eat there at least once when we are back...It was so good to be able to see Mom and Pop Cleaveland and visit....They both look and act like they are 30 years younger than they are...They said that they were both feeling good and were looking forward to coming down to the valley this fall...

In the park Marie and Dale Flood have some family visiting for a few days so they is some activity in the park...Also Bill Saubert has his brother Richard from Florida visiting him for a few days....Richard told me that he was trying to talk Bill into going with him up north to visit some of their relation, but was unsure if Bill would go...I hope he does cause he needs some get away time...I guess we all do once in a while...I have a couple of more things I am going to share but haven't gotten the picture or all the info yet so you will have to wait for it next time...

Meal with the Cleavelands

Back in the Park

I guess it means that I can't leave the park without all kinds of things happening...Two days after we left on Tuesday June 30th , Bonnie Petersen fell and broke her hip...We were told that she fell over her foot stool...She had surgery on it on Friday the third...She is in McAllen hospital and will be there for another week before going to rehab...She sure needs our prayers at this time....Her daughters have been here for for a few days, but plan on leaving in a day or so....

I also heard that Raul Saldivar was in the hospital also... I don't know any particulars on that at this time, so will have to find out more and get back to you....

We are glad to be back home but don't like the heat as usual, but we can't do any thing about it....The park looks great with the grass all mowed...The only thing is it is sure dry...We could use some of the moisture that has been falling up north...More later...

My Oh My

Don was buzzing right along with posts about Magnolia but now we have had a long dry spell. I imagine Don the blog poster is in the Midwest seeking cooler temperatures. Hurry back Don so we can all find out what is happening in Magnolia park!

Bill & Kay Stilson

I just got Bill home last night, June 30th at 6 PM. Bill has been in the hospital ever since we got home May 26th. It has been a long long struggle for him. He still needs 4 more weeks of antibiotics. Two weeks as a liquid in his pick line and 2 in pill form. After 2 more weeks we should be free and clear to do as we please. It is very clear that we will not be making our annual trip to Iowa this year. Our main goal is to see to it that Bill will never have to go through this again. We will see you all in November in Texas and I will tell you, he will be doing his pecans as usual. Thanks for all your thoughts and prayers.
Bill and Kay Stilson

Magnolia News

We got word today that Charley Nelson passed away this morning (Monday) at 8:30 ....The funeral will be at 10:00 AM Thursday at the Methodist Church in Melcher, Iowa...Visitation will be the night before at the funeral home....Charley will be missed in the park as he was always trying to make sure you knew he was around...He was a little ornery at times but aways with a big smile... Please pray for the family as they need it in the coming days...

I checked with Bill Saubert and told him that we were going on vacation and ask how he was as I hadn't had a chance to talk to him for a while...He said that he was doing ok and his knee was healing quite well...He was getting around a little better also...That was good to hear....Herb and Pat Jones came in Sunday evening from their vacation...Also we saw Elmer Johnson on our ride tonight and he said that he had just got in this afternoon....We are going to have coffee tomorrow morning in the little hall and are wondering just how many will be there....We are leaving after coffee and heading north...Don and Marji Soole will be leaving the last we heard on Wednesday or Thursday for their vacation also...This will be the last I will put on the blog for a while, but will be ready to blog when we get back...Be safe and healthy everyone......

Charles Nelson

Charlie Nelson was taken off life support today. His family asked that their Magnolia family be informed.
In case who he is is not clicking into place. Charlie had a stroke awhile back and would buzz around the park on his electric scooter. He loved to hang out in the pool hall. His wife Edna plays cards regularly in the pool hall.
I know you all want to pass along to him and his family your thoughts and prayers.

Lot's of News Today

I have lots of news today and an a assignment later for the Magnolia Family...This morning we had Bible Study with Pastor Stacey at Don and Marji's house again...The study was on Isaiah Chapter 45 with the theme of "God opens doors and calls by name"...A good study to really think about....

This afternoon we got a call from Eula Henderson...She had been in touch last night with Edna Nelson....Edna told her that Charley was in the hospital and not good at all...He is on life support...He had just quit eating at home and getting worse all the time...She said that they told her that without life support he would be gone in no time...She said the the kids and her were going to have to make some big decisions this coming week...It doesn't sound good for the family at all...We need to keep them in our prayers doubly much this week...

On a lighter note I talked to Dorothy Wendt yesterday, and she said that she was going to E-mail me some items...I checked the mail this morning and she sent pictures and explanations for all..So here goes..

Vernon Wendt had his foot surgery so he won't be driving around next year, but back to walking...He had a week to set around with his foot in the air and no weight on it..Fun having a walker in the motor home, but he is hobbling around now in his fancy footwear..He is about to have all the wires and stitches removed so hope all will be well...Also

Harold Shelden is doing great, even though he doesn't think so...He thinks he should be 100% even though it has only been a little over 2 months...He isn't using his walker much although we insist when outside...We are celebrating his 95th birthday on August 1 with an open house and card shower....Cards may be sent to

Harold Shelden
600 20th Street S. W.
Brookings, S.D. 57006

Anyone in the area, we would love to have you come to the open house on August 1 at
2121 Monarch Lane in Meadow Green community center right off 22nd Ave. in Brookings..Right now Esther is in the hospital with Pancreatitis, but hope it is short lived thing.....Dorothy

This proves we need to keep all our Magnolia Family in our prayers at all times, after all we're all in this together and need to hold each other up...

Harold Shelden

Vern's Fancy Footwear

Not Much Moving

Sorry I haven't put anything on the blog for a couple of days, but the only thing moving around here is Manuel on the new mower and the thermometer going up.....I have to give him credit for doing a good job on the grass in this hot weather....

Did get a report on Marie Flood though...The swelling is going down in her legs and ankles or at least that is what Dale told us...He said that she was feeling better at least...I have seen Bill Saubert driving out of the park to get his meals, so he must be better also...I haven't been able to catch him to talk to him and really ask, but if he wasn't OK he would let me know I'm sure...I'm sure I will have something for you sooner or later...HA HA

Park is looking good

It rained today and the grass is drinking it up....We sure needed the moisture as the grass was starting to get brown again....Luckily the guys that do the mowing for all the yards came in yesterday and this morning before the rain and got all the yards cut and trimmed...When we rode around this evening every thing looked great...I don't know when the park was mowed and trimmed this good in a long time...You couldn't ask for a better job...Manuel has kept the park mower just humming since they got it....The only thing now is the grass will start growing like mad, but you can't complain cause it will look nice and green...Oh well....

Coffee Day

This morning we had coffee at the little hall to get together and spread what ever news we might have with all that are present....I found out that Marie Flood was put in the hospital yesterday...They kept her for some tests over night...Her legs and feet were swelling and didn't know the reason....We stopped tonight on our nightly ride and saw her at home....The Dr. changed some of her med's and she seemed to be OK or at least feeling better....She said that she was going to go to exercise at the AARP center tomorrow so she is doing the best she can to stay active...We talked to Don an Marji Soole tonight and he got his machine to make oxygen for him when he is traveling so they were very happy...He is anxious to learn how to use it before they go on vacation...The card players were busy this afternoon in the little hall so they had fun...Everyone keep well....

More People update

This evening I got to thinking how Berwyn and Erma Cleaveland were doing...We all know that he was having quite a time before they went home and some trouble after they got home...So I called their home and Erma answered....She said that she was glad to hear from us...I ask how Berwyn was doing and he answered in the background that he was doing great..They sounded like they were just as spry as ever...Berwyn said that he has been out in the corn field looking things over and every thing looks good...They did complain about how HOT is was today....It sounds like the weather has finally decided to warm up for them...They said that they weren't sure when Leslie and Richard would be back from their trip...I am sure they are having a good time and in no hurry to get back to work....I know that I wouldn't...

I also got a Email from Mable Zoet saying that they have Texas weather with temperatures in the 90's...Summer has come for up NORTH it seems....She also said that Nelson was suppose to have kidney stone lazier surgery today , but was able to pass them last Thursday and was glad of that..She said to tell everyone HI....

It is so good to hear from our Magnolia Family and to let everyone know just how things are going...We need to keep all our Magnolia family in our prayers, cause for sure we all need them...

From Kay Stilson

Just a little update. Bill is still in hospital. we are hoping that he will be home in one more week. It has been a long struggle, but he is healing and that is what is important. I just had to send you these two pictures of my lilies. They are Bill's favorite. So I took a couple of pictures to take out to him and thought I would pass them on. They are in a flower bed in front of out 5th wheel. Enjoy.



I forgot to mention in the picture, if you noticed the two cream cans. They are from the milk house on our farm. I want to tell you I filled a whole heck of a lot of those darn things. We took them to town once a week and that was our grocery money. God forbid if there was dirt in those cans. as we got docked for that, and then there was hell to pay. Some time it is fun to reminisce.

A Great Fathers Day in Magnolia Park

This morning we had Bible Study at Don and Marji's house again...Pastor Stacey and Tina had all their children present for the study...Their daughter and son-in-law came to see them before they are being deployed overseas to Iraq for a year...It was sure a blessing for the Pastor to have them all together, and at a bible study to boot....A great fathers day present for Pastor...For your information the study was in Ephesians, and 2nd Timothy with the theme of "Whom will you serve"...A great study and something we all should think on...

It's been another hot day in Magnolia and dry, so we could use some of the cool weather that some of our Magnolia Family up NORTH has been telling us about...One thing that is funny to me is that today is suppost to be the first day of summer and we have had it for quite some time I thought...Happy Fathers Day guys....

Happy Fathers Day

This morning Marie Flood and Kathy Walker had a small garage sale in the little hall...I don't know how well it turned out as I was just lazy and didn't go up to buy anything...Marilyn went and bought a little stuff...I didn't see to many cars at one time, so don't know how many attended...Don Howard wasn't here to provide barbecue sandwiches to pull them in...HA HA...Other than that not to much happened today...

On another note I want to wish all the fathers and grandfathers a HAPPY FATHERS DAY tomorrow on Sunday...Enjoy the day.....I hope all your kids contact you....

People Update for the Park

I got a E-mail from Phyllis Neudorff saying that she had just spent a week visiting Eddie and Doris Culpepper in Denton, then a girls weekend at Lake Bridgeport....She said that they all had fun....So they must be feeling good and that's great..It's nice that the Magnolia Family can get together and visit...Phyllis has been gone from the park for a year or so but keeps up with us.. So that's good...

Also got a note from Kay Voss saying that the strawberries are coming in now and they are getting some despite the rain..Seems it is kind of cool and dreary weather and she wishes that could have some of our heat....I tell you if it were possible I would send her some as we need some cool..What a trade that would be...She says she is making jelly rolls and putting strawberries over the top of them...I think that she is just trying to make us jealous and it's working...

Other than the heat not much happened to day in the park...Some more mowing got done and it's good to see that it is being kept up...We are suppost to get a cool front in a day or so...It should be down to the mid 90s....HA HA...No rain here at Magnolia...Don't you wish you were here????

People Update

This morning a little before noon I got a call from Bill Saubert to come to his house as he was having a problem...I went over there and he could hardly move...He wanted me to take him to the Doctor...We couldn't figure how to get him out to my car with out hurting either one of us and then he said he didn't know if he could get in any way..His knee was hurting so bad and he couldn't put any weight on it or bend it...He finally said "Well I better call for an ambulance" and I agreed...I told him I would take the car home and wait for the ambulance at the gate so they would know where to go...They got there and transported him to Knapp in Weslaco...We both were sure he would be staying as he was in pain...Later on in the afternoon I went to Knapp to check on Bill and when I ask at ER they said that they were just going to release him and I was just in time to take him home...They drained the knee and gave him some antibiotics...Bill said that he felt much better and was able to move around , but quite slow...I got him home and in the house with out any trouble at all....We saw him tonight as we were riding around and he was outside setting in his chair...He said that he was much better....I will continue to check on him....This just goes to show that we need to pray for each other and to continue to be there for each of our Magnolia Family...After all next time it may be one of us...

On a lighter note the card players were at it again this afternoon...It seems that they have some much fun and can hardly wait till the next time to play...I guess if it wasn't so hot outdoors so they could do something else, but I don't know what...They just need more competition...(hint hint) HA HA It won't be too long before the fall comes and some of the Magnolia Family comes back...

Magnolia News

Well this morning we had coffee and rolls in the little hall, so we could check up on each other and learn the latest news if any...Most every one has something to add about how some one up NORTH has said that they are cold, wet or something to that effect...All they have to do is come back down here to deep south Texas and they would be able to warm up with no trouble...HA HA..And they aren't kept in because of rain either...Oh well no matter where you are people can find something about the weather that they don't like...It seems we are never satisfied, and it doesn't seem to get any better the older we get for some reason....

The card players got together again this afternoon to play cards in the little hall...Marilyn said when she got home that they had a good time...They will play again Thursday afternoon the Lord willing...

On another note Shady Acres park took the riding lawn mower over there as they said it was their park's mower...That left only a push mower here for mowing so Monday the managers got a new riding mower for our park and they have put it to use keeping the park looking great...It seems to be a good one cause it says TROY Built...That is a good brand I think...It is all a good sign I think, just have to wait and see in the future....Keep well all...

Kapke's

Karl and Carol have a new digital camera. Here is a sample. They say the weather has been cool and damp in Wisconsin. I believe that is the story across the upper US. It certainly has been that way in Colorado.

Sunday at Magnolia

Another bright sunny day here at Magnolia Park with the temperature of 100 or very near (we try not to look as it makes us hotter)...We did have Bible Study this morning at Don and Marji Soole's house...We were few but good students...Pastor Stacey taught on the Book of Psalms , Chapter 18 for your information....Pastor said the the Book of Psalms was his favorite book to study...Other wise it was a quite day and peaceful....Remember to look out for others in the Magnolia Family and pray for us all...

Magnolia News

Just thought I would let you know about the closing of the gate on the week ends at Magnolia...We decided to keep the gate shut on the week ends to keep outside traffic from coming in and looking around...We just don't have enough eyes to keep on them and make sure they are on the up and up...The gate is open for the mail man on Saturday and when he leaves the gate is shut...We're just trying to keep it as secure and safe as possible for all...

New Managers for the Park

As promised I went up to the office this morning to meet the new managers and to find out what was going on...I explained who I was and told them that I co-authored the blog for the park...I knew that people up north of our Magnolia Family would want to know all the particulars that I could find out so to dis spell any rumors that have or will get started...We had a good laugh, cause we all know how that is usually...

Their names are Sue and Larry Hart and they will be our only managers as they said that Nita wanted out and this was the way to do it...I found that they were quite easy to talk to...They said they wanted to come in when the crowd wasn't here to ease into the workings of the park and to become familiar with it...I told them that I was glad to see the park all mowed and looking good...Larry said that is the way they want to keep it...

For getting connected to talk to them all the same numbers will be in effect....The same hours for the summer will also be in effect...9;00 AM to 12;00 on Monday, Wednesday and Friday...They also said that this winter they plan to have some one in the office every day during the week(work campers or something to that effect) probably depends on what or who they can get to do the job...At least that is the plan at this time they say...

They did say that they also run two other parks along with this one..One in Harlingen(Carefree Park) and one in Pharr(can't remmenber that ones name) It sure looks like they will be busy...

Sue and Larry Hart

Some update News

Tonight I just happened to check my Gmail account and found out that Kay Voss had written to me and I didn't even know it...I don't check that account very often..She was asking about her neighbor Bill Saubert that I reported on the other day...It's my fault that I didn't update every body on him so I'm sorry and will do so now....Bill is home...I brought him home from the ER the same day I took him in...They gave him some meds to help his unsteadiness , but he had some side effects from them, so he quit taking them and went to his Dr. on the following Monday...He changed some of his meds and said not to take what the ER gave him...He is very unsteady on his feet, so I went up to the hall and got him a walker to use when he needs it...He doesn't use it all the time and continues to drive to town for most of his meals so he is doing the best he can, but still needs our prayers...

On a lighter note as Marilyn and I were doing our nightly exercise riding the golf cart around the park tonight...We were remarking how good the park looks...Almost all the lawns are mowed and the grass (and weeds) are so green...It was another beautiful day in deep south Texas today although just a little warm...Don't you wish you were here???

Magnolia News

Well the latest news is that we now have new managers for Magnolia Park...I haven't met them yet so don't know any thing for sure about them...Supposedly they were managers over in Harlingen at Carefree Park...On another note Tony was layed off as of last Friday...The word is that they want to have a park worker live in the park full time...Just don't know who that will be yet....As I say all of this is just strong rumor at this time(except for the new managers) so don't get too excited yet...Will let you know more when I find out something for sure....

On another note I have started a personal blog so I invite everyone to take a look at it sometime...I am hoping that Barbra will place a permanent link on this blog to my blog for you...The name of the blog is Loring's Thoughts http://wdloring.blogspot.com/ Place it in you favorites for future use...I have just gotten started with it so it is a work in progress...Keep cool if you can cause it's hot down here....

4th of July Cake

Norma C. sent this recipe. Doesn't it look yummie!!

Recipe: Strawberry Rhubarb Cake 6/10/2009
Category: Dessert
Author: Norma Cooklin


Preparation Time: 15
Total Time: 55
Number of Servings: 12

The combined flavors of sweet strawberries and tart rhubarb
balance this moist golden cake that stirs up quickly and is long
on old-fashioned flavor.

Ingredients
1 bag Frozen strawberries 2lb or fresh
3 cups rhubarb, cut into 1-inch pieces
1 1/2 Tbsp.lemon juice
1 cup sugar or Splenda
1/2 cup cornstarch
1 box classic white cake mix


Steps
1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Lightly spray 13 x 9-inch pan with cooking oil.

2. Heat strawberries, rhubarb and lemon juice in sauce pan over medium
heat for 5 minutes.

3. Add sugar and cornstarch; bring to a boil, stirring until mixture thickens.
Remove from heat and cool.

4. Prepare cake batter according to package directions.

5. Pour half of cake batter into pan. Spread with strawberry mixture.
Spoon remaining batter carefully over filling and bake 40 to 45 minutes.

Serve garnished with whipped topping and strawberries.

Pecan award

Last Spring before we left the Stilson's presented us with this award. It seems Butch purchased the most Pecans for the season. Candy is not his only vice!!

Something New

Last Sunday Pastor Stacey Proctor ask me at Bible study when we were at Don and Marji's house if I would post something on the blog if he sent it to me...I said yes I would try to help him out...He sent me this and I am going to call it

Pastor's Corner

Numbers 6:33-37
The Lord said to Moses, "Tell Aaron and his sons, "This is how you are to bless the Israelites....Say to them "The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face to shine upon you and be gracious to you: the Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace". "So they will put my name on the Israelites, and I will bless them."

We as a body of Christ need to bless each other this way as the Lord told Moses to tell Aaron to bless the Israelites. We can put our names or family members in the place of Israelites..Lets continue to pray for one another and be careful what comes out of our mouth and make sure that we're wearing the right fragrance..

My son Serjio will be 17 on Tuesday and my daughter will be coming home the 19th of this month..My wife Tina's birthday will be on July 4th...I want to thank the Magnolia Family for blessing my family so much..It has been a blessing to serve you and if you need prayer or anything call me...My number is 956-457-4467....Believe that something good is going to happen!!

Sunday Update

Here it is another Sunday at Magnolia Park and the weather is quite warm to say the least...This morning we were blessed to have "Church/bible study" with Pastor Stacey at Don and Marji Soole's home...There weren't many of us but it was a blessing for all there as Pastor said "In the Bible it says where two or more are gathered, the Lord will be in the midst of them". Pastor said that Lord willing we will have the gathering as long until Don and Marji leave to go on vacation in a few weeks....That was good news for me at least as I sure enjoy the service...
On another note I took Bill Saubert to the ER in Knap Hospital yesterday(Saturday) as he was very weak and not feeling well at all...After a checkup, they released him with some medication to help him with his condition...He is going to see his Doctor Monday to have farther checkup tests done...He needs our prayers and support at this time....I don't believe it's any thing serious, but you can never be too careful at our age...Remember keep well and watch out for each other...

Tagged Mail warning

If you get a message saying Tagged email and it looks to be from someone you know, do not open it. The person it looks as though sent it did not. Their identity has been stolen. I received one this morning and googled it before I opened it THANK GOD!!
This particular message came from a former Magnolia park resident

Barb & Butch

We are in Colorado at our "summer job" campground hosting at Snow Mountain Ranch. You can see what we are up to by viewing our personal blog www.brooker3.blogspot.com or www.smrvolunteers.blogspot.com
Don is doing a GREAT job of posting updates. I may just enlist his help the rest of the year as well. It can and does get away from me at times.
Best wishes to all the blog watchers and posters



Recipe: Summer Spinach Salad 6/6/2009
Category: Salad
Author: Kraft
Prep Time: 15 min
Total Time: 15 min
Makes:
10 servings, 1-1/4 cups each
What You Need!
2 pkg. (9 oz. each) baby spinach leaves
6 small ripe peaches, thinly sliced
1 red onion, halved, thinly sliced
1 cup PLANTERS Pecan Pieces, toasted
1 cup KRAFT Shredded Parmesan Cheese
1 bottle (8 oz.) KRAFT Light Raspberry Vinaigrette

Dressing
Make It!
TOSS all ingredients lightly in large serving bowl. Serve immediately.
Kraft Kitchens Tips
How to Keep Peaches from Browning
To keep peaches from turning brown before serving, toss in a separate bowl with
3 Tbsp. of the dressing, then add to
salad.
How to Toast Nuts
Toasting nuts adds crunch and intensifies their flavor. To toast nuts in the oven,
spread nuts in single layer in
shallow baking pan. Bake at 350°F for 8 to 10 min. or until golden brown, stirring
occasionally. To toast nuts on the
stovetop, place nuts in ungreased skillet. Cook on medium heat until golden
brown, stirring frequently. To toast nuts
in the microwave, place up to 1 cup of nuts in a microwaveable shallow dish.
Microwave on HIGH until fragrant and
crisp, stirring every 30 sec.
Nutrition Information
(2)
Summer Fresh Spinach Salad recipe at Kraftfoods.com
http://www.kraftfoods.com/kf/recipes/summer-fresh-spinach-salad-11350...
1 of 2 6/6/2009 10:42 AM
Calories 200 Total fat 14 g Saturated fat 3 g
Cholesterol 10 mg Sodium 390 mg Carbohydrate 14 g
Dietary fiber 3 g Sugars 9 g Protein 7 g
Vitamin A 70 %DV Vitamin C 30 %DV Calcium 20 %DV
Iron 10 %DV
Summer Fresh Spinach Salad recipe at Kraftfoods.com
http://www.kraftfoods.com/kf/recipes/summer-fresh-spinach-salad-11350...

Talked to Mrs. Pecan Bill

I talked to Kay the other day and she and Bill have had quite a time since getting home. Bill had/has a staph infection in his chest. It is a long story about the entire journey but the bottom line is that he is in a rehab hospital with a VAC sucking all the bad stuff out of him. He will be there for 3-4 weeks so Kay will be on a fast track back and forth. He is on the road to recovery now but I am sure all prayers are appreciated.
Barb & Butch the Roadramblers in Colorado

Up North News

Marilyn and I got a letter this morning from Lester and Helen Alt saying that they got home OK on April the first...That the weather has been cold and rainy...Lester said that he had to put on his"LONG JOHNS" for a few days to keep warm...Sounds like they went north too soon to me...They say they are in good health and are in the middle of remodeling their kitchen... Sounds like a big job to me...We are so glad to hear from any of our NORTHERN FAMILY every once in a while...It's good to hear that they are doing well and enjoying the time...Keep well...

Magnolia News

Marilyn called Leslie Cleaveland last night to chat and found out that Berwyn had a pacemaker put in and is doing good...Hopefully he will get to come home today if every thing checks out...I know that you can't keep him down for very long so I expect him to get out no doubt...Also found out that Bill Stilson was having some trouble since they got home...He had some fluid around the lungs and infection around the incision...They both need our prayers so keep them in mind daily...
In talking with Leslie it brings to mind Iowa Cornfields and growing things...Marilyn and I were just talking about that now we have had some rain you could almost hear the grass and weeds growing like in Iowa when the corn is growing...Low and behold we found a Iowa Corn field growing here in the park...I thought I would take a picture of it as the folks up NORTH wouldn't believe of one in the park...Now I will leave you with wondering just where in the park it's growing....

Iowa Cornfield???

Magnolia News

Well here it is the first week in June and the summer is flying by...We had coffee this morning and got caught up on the local news in the park...That didn't take long so we just sat and talked and laughed about the cold weather reports that had come in from up NORTH... We have been blessed with a little rain so the grass is growing to beat the band so to speak, but that is better than being burnt up and brown...We all are doing well just the usual aches and pains for our age....As some would say "We all worked hard and are now paying for it" so we are just thankful that we are blessed with a great life in Deep South Texas...Keep healthy

A Little Info

Well for the last few days we have had a little rain on and off during the night...It has amounted to little more than an inch so far...Last night we had some hail about the size of a dime to a quarter...Talk about noisy on the metal roof....We sure have needed the rain though as the grass had just about all turned brown, now it will grow like mad...We had about 10 this morning for coffee...It's at least getting to the point that not many more are leaving so that's good....Well just though you might like to know that we are still alive and well in Magnolia Park....The card playing is still going on on Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday afternoons so there is something to do....Keep well.....