Quilts

Over the winter ladies here at Peace Creek have made quilted lap robes for charity. Nothing fancy, but pretty and useful. The project has been fun and done with love.
On Monday we delivered these to the Russell Home for Atypical Children. This home has been in operation for over 60 years with no government support. Donations of money and supplies have kept them going. It was started when a Policeman came to Mrs. Russell's door and asked her if she would keep a baby that had been abandoned due to its atypical condition. She took this baby in and it just grew from there. The original home, Mrs. Russell's home, has been expanded over the years to accommodate the growing "family" There are now 28 "children" there.
This is one of those places where you see the sad condition of the child, but also the loving care that is being given. We were first taken to a room that had some large cribs and some single beds. The first bed held a child that looked to be about 7 yrs old, judging by her size. She was not in a fetal posture, but certainly had muscles that had atrophied and was unable to care for herself. Were we stunned to learn that she is nearly 60 yrs old and has been at Russell Home her entire life! The next was much the same - she was born deaf, blind and mute, but they think she actually can hear. Another was able to sit up in a wheelchair when placed there, but she too had atrophied muscles. Again, all of these were over 50 years of age.
There are some children with Down Syndrome and others are autistic or mildly retarded (is that politically correct?). Several were at school while we were there.
All the "children" are adults whether they look like it or not, but none are able to be out in an adult world. Most have never seen their parents, as they were given up for care at birth. There are a few parents who are involved in their children's lives and active at the home.
As I said, this home was started by one woman who died in 2003. Her children and grandchildren now keep the place going. There are 26 employees and most of them are family. So you can see this place is run with love and caring.
There is also a tea room for private parties by reservation only. It only has seating for 12. Very Victorian and cozy, and the menu sounded absolutely scrumptious. I would love to have tea there sometime! There is no cost - it is strictly donations! How incredible is that?! They have never lost money on a tea, whether it was for 2 or 12.
They do take the children for outings to the zoo, etc. Orlando Magic Basketball players have visited the home and thrilled the children. There have even been tickets donated.
We left there somewhat sobered, but also heartened that these "children" are well cared for and loved.
Count your blessings and thank God for people such as this.
God Bless

Rushing

The weeks are just rushing by. Can hardly believe it is March and March is already 6 days old! Of course I have been doing a lot of sitting and napping. But I did walk with Pauline on Wed. and Fri. Doing my exercises every day. If the pain would just end! I think I am doing fine and next thing I know I need pain pills because I can't get comfortable. It either sneaks up on me or I am trying to ignore it as long as I can.
Saw the new therapist on Tuesday. He is quite nice. He massaged my knee and kept pushing it down, as my extension is not good enough. The massage felt good, the pushing did not. He had me on the stationary bike, the weight machine and something else (?). This Tues I will probably be using the hydro-tread, an underwater treadmill. And, no, my head will not be underwater.
Wed. we went to Clermont for lunch and had a great time. Had to eat and run so TM could get his lesson ready. This was his last night to teach so next week we can stay later and see Amanda after school.
Thurs. was the Escapees luncheon meeting. Had a great time. They have a rally the end of the month, but we can't go. Seems the campground has a 40 lb. limit on dog size. Don't think we want TD that skinny!
Saturday was the campground ham and bean supper. Yum - white beans! Our friend, Manuel had given us a head of cabbage from his garden, so made coleslaw. Had a large mixing bowl full of coleslaw and it was all eaten. I will have to say it was really good.
Today at church we had another preacher candidate. Did not care for him much as his delivery is pretty bland. Did not meet him and his wife personally, but I am sure they are fine people, just not a good fit for Central.
Pot luck was wonderful. Glad so many like my cheese grits since they are so easy to make.
That's it for now. God Bless