A Wise Woman Saves the Day!

08/17/2018 By: CCPearson2 Comments

She’s almost invisible, tucked away in the pages of 2 Samuel. (2 Samuel 20:15-22, to be exact). I confessed to a recent Sunday School class I taught that I had read through the Bible on numerous occasions and had 68 years worth of sermons under my belt, but somehow this woman’s contribution seemed new to me. Yet, there it was. I love it when a woman is the heroine of a story in the Bible.

The setting was this: Joab and his army were besieging the city of Abel, trying to scale and dismantle the protective wall, in order to reach Sheba who was stirring up traitorous intentions toward King David. Sheba had declared that the people of Israel (meaning the 10 tribes in the northern part of the land) had no reason to follow and support David. He was mad at the people of Judah (representing the 2 southern tribes), and he wanted to cause their demise.

The residents of Abel were innocent. Their city had a solid reputation for doing good. Yet, they were going to suffer huge losses if something didn’t happen. Enter The Wise Woman.

¹⁵When Joab and his men came to Abel Beth Maacah, they surrounded the town. They piled dirt up against the city wall and began breaking stones out of the wall to make it fall down.

¹⁶But there was a very wise woman in that city who shouted out to them and said, “Listen to me! Tell Joab to come here. I want to talk with him.”

¹⁷Joab went to talk with the woman. She asked him, “Are you Joab?”

Joab answered, “Yes, I am.”

Then the woman said, “Listen to me.”

Joab said, “I am listening.”

¹⁸Then the woman said, “In the past people would say, ‘Ask for help in Abel and you will get what you need.’ ¹⁹I am one of many peaceful, loyal people in this town. You are trying to destroy an important city of Israel. Why do you want to destroy something that belongs to the Lord?”

²⁰Joab answered, “I don’t want to destroy anything. I don’t want to ruin your city. ²¹But there is a man in your city from the hill country of Ephraim. He is named Sheba son of Bicri. He rebelled against King David. Bring him to me, and I will leave the city alone.”

The woman said to Joab, “All right. His head will be thrown over the wall to you.”

²²Then the woman spoke very wisely to all the people of the city. They cut off the head of Sheba son of Bicri and threw it over the city wall to Joab.

So Joab blew the trumpet and the army left the city. The soldiers went home, and Joab went back to the king in Jerusalem.

Nowhere in the passage do we learn her name . . . or age . . . or economic status . . . or level of education.

We can deduce that she had earned a reputation for saying and doing wise things in the past.

She realized that her own life was about to be threatened along with all those she loved and cared about.

She got in a position to be heard.

She identified the person who could make a difference – Joab.

She asked him to listen to her. (How many times have we said to our husbands or children, “Are you listening to me?”)

She got to the root of the problem while defending the reputation of her city and its citizens.

She understood what the solution had to be and convinced the townspeople to carry out the solution.

Yes, the “solution” was gruesome, but, without a doubt, that one act saved the lives of hundreds, maybe even thousands.

I want to be a wise woman, don’t you? I want to have a track record for making wise decisions and speaking words of wisdom. I want to have good communication skills. I want to defuse potentially explosive situations. I want those around me to live in peace.

I’m so glad I got a chance to encounter this woman while studying God’s Word. I believe I’ll remember her from now on.

Ivy Green: Birthplace of Helen Keller in Tuscumbia, Alabama

08/13/2018 By: CCPearsoncomment

“Character cannot be developed in ease and quiet. Only through experience of trial and suffering can the soul be strengthened, ambition inspired, and success achieved.” Helen Keller

Have you found Ivy Green yet? Did you go on an elementary class field trip when you were a child? Have you had visitors from other states and wondered how to entertain them for a few hours? Would you merely like to be REinspired by the remarkable story of Helen Keller and her devoted teacher Anne Sullivan?

Portrait of Helen as a young woman.

Ivy Green at 300 North Commons West in Tuscumbia, AL is a place where we Alabamians can take a lot of pride. The grounds, buildings, furnishings and artifacts are beautifully-maintained. Tour guides are well-trained, and the admission price is very affordable. Adults are $6.00, and children are $3.00, but Senior Adults, AAA members and members of the military pay only $5.00. It is open from 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Monday through Saturday and is only closed for major holidays.

View of the main house from the entrance.

Originally built as a bridal suite for Captain Arthur Keller and his young wife Kate (Helen’s parents), it became a school house for Helen and her teacher Anne Sullivan.

“The Miracle Worker” is a well-known movie and play based on the story of Helen and her teacher Ms. Sullivan. That same play is actually performed on the grounds of Ivy Green every summer on Friday and Saturday evenings at 8:00 p.m. throughout the month of June until mid-July. 2019 dates will be June 7 – July 13. Go ahead and mark it down somewhere. It has been named “A Top 20 Event in the Southeast” and is the Official Outdoor Drama of the State of Alabama. The annual Helen Keller Festival is held every year during the last weekend in June.

Besides the main family home, built in 1820, visitors can also see the cottage, the kitchen building, the pump where Helen first learned and understood the word “water,” and ice house, the gardens, the Lion’s International Memorial Garden and the gazebo. The museum inside the main home is filled with fascinating memorabilia of Helen’s life. One of the most impressive areas to me was in the Lion’s Garden where a video plays in a loop with actual footage of a speech made by Helen. You can see and hear this woman — who learned how to speak although she was blind and deaf from the age of 19 months.

Capable guide leads a tour through the main house.

Clothing worn by Helen and her mother.

Helen was born June 27, 1880 and died just a few weeks shy of her 88th birthday on June 1, 1968. She wrote 12 books and numerous articles during her lifetime and received countless awards. Her story and these grounds surrounding Ivy Green — on the National Register of Historic Sites since 1954 — are highly-recommended ways to ignite meaningful conversations with children and grandchildren. Steve and I were so impressed with the deep thoughts our grands expressed after hearing about Helen and seeing her birthplace.

“The best and most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen or even touched – they must be felt with the heart.” Helen Keller

P.S. No doubt, you will want to have breakfast, lunch or dinner when you’re in Tuscumbia touring Ivy Green. If so, consider a couple of restaurants I’ve written about in past blog posts. Here you will read about Big Bad Breakfast and Ray’s at the Bank. And here you will read about the cafe at Alabama Chanin.

Cousins Camp 2018: Let’s Be Honest about the Challenges

08/10/2018 By: CCPearsoncomment

Cousins Camp is mine and Steve’s favorite week of the year. We eagerly anticipate the day it begins. We laugh constantly throughout the days together. And we miss the kids like crazy when they’re gone. Many of you are starting to have your own versions of Cousins Camp, so you understand completely what I’m talking about. You will ALSO recognize and appreciate some of the challenges I’m about to describe.

It’s a challenge to plan a week that has enough variety of activities to hold the interest, meet the needs, and be appropriate for children from youngest to oldest. Next year we anticipate incorporating another 4-year-old as a first-timer. And, if we’re lucky, Allie (who will graduate from high school next May) will still be able to participate. That means we’ll have 12 kids from 4 to 18 years old. The older ones keep getting older, and we’re still adding young ones. It’s quite a balancing act.

Obviously there has to be some level of understanding and compromise in order to make it work. Not every activity (or restaurant or meal or craft or theme or sleeping arrangement, etc. etc.) will appeal to every child. We will do our best to lead the older campers to help the little ones adjust and to be patient until their favorite excursions come up. We’ve thought about having 2 separate camps, but to this point, that would totally defeat the purpose of merging the children of all three families.

Luke gives Bethany some attention.

Penelope gives her little sister a lift.

3 families. 1 table full of fun.

2. It’s a challenge to eat healthy throughout the course of the week. A variety of fruits are offered at least twice a day, and a few veggies are consumed by those who order them in restaurants (plus, in the past I’ve had carrot sticks and other raw veggies that go with Ranch dressing on hand). Just as in every other family I can think of, our crew has its share of picky eaters. One doesn’t want sauce on his pasta. One picks out the beans in her Hungry Jack casserole. Another doesn’t like chocolate. None of them wants to touch a nut — with the possible exception of peanuts. Some drink milk. Some don’t. One will only eat apples as a fruit. Another will happily eat watermelon but won’t touch a banana. You get the idea. My edict of “Take what you get and don’t pitch a fit” has become a Cousins Camp mantra. They often quote it to each other. We also have a rule forbidding whining, so there’s that. We can pretty much satisfy everyone at breakfast, and I offer at least a little variety in the other meal prepared at home. They may order whatever they want in a restaurant (within reason), so I’m not afraid anyone will starve. Still, I struggle because I want the meals to be more balanced, but I don’t want to buy a lot of food that will merely go to waste.

Cutting out pie crusts before adding favorite fillings to homemade Pop Tarts.

Some girl cousins at a table in the Ethiopian restaurant.

3. It’s a challenge to stay reasonable from a financial standpoint. Oh yes. I know plenty of grandparents who have spent FAR MORE than we do when they’ve taken their grands to Disney World. That just isn’t feasible in our case — financially or logistically. Mercy! This is important enough to Steve and me to be a line item in our budget. We save for it deliberately from one year to the next, but I still look for bargain activities and meals (99-cent Taco Tuesdays and appealing parks and attractions that are offered for free or for a small fee, etc.). The 15-passenger van we rent for the week is almost $700, and the grocery bill is hefty. It’s worth every penny, but it is a consideration.

4. It’s a challenge to have one-on-one opportunities with each child. Sometimes conversations happen as we’re riding down the road or when one is helping in the kitchen or when one gets up before the rest or when others are playing and one just wants to cuddle for a few minutes. Every now and then, one will get out of the pool and just come over to sit for a little bit. We learn a lot about them — and they learn a lot about us — around the table at mealtimes and during our Family Meetings right before bedtime, but still . . . it would be good to have uninterrupted time alone with each child during the week. Maybe I’ll ponder that a little more before next summer.

Bethany having fun with the hairnet she got at the Golden Flake Factory tour.

Sam demonstrating the proper way to make a paper airplane.

Rosie shared a reading before bedtime.

5. It’s a challenge to keep it fresh and come up with a new theme each year. For our group, the theme is a big deal. It has become a much-anticipated and oft-debated topic from one year to the next. It usually dictates the look of the t-shirts and quite a few of the activities. I’m constantly on the prowl for good ideas, so please don’t be afraid to share. I’m all ears. So far, we’ve had Zoo Animals, Undersea Creatures, Hawaii, Sports, Around the World, Music and most recently New Things, so I’m not ready to repeat any of those just yet.

Everyone busy with crafts on the back porch.

6. It’s a challenge to stay physically fit enough and to have the stamina for such an undertaking. I won’t lie to you. We get VERY tired. I remember one year when all the kids drove off with their parents, and Steve and I sat in the family room and just stared silently into space for an hour or more. We couldn’t move or speak. We had taken it all “to the playing field and left nothing in the locker room,” as they say. Each summer the kids are another year older, but SO ARE WE. Gulp! We truly pray that our health will allow us to continue doing this for years to come. It takes a lot of work to get ready for the week, and then it takes a lot of work to put the house back in order after it’s over.

Let me add here that we hope to stay interesting to our grandchildren. At one of the mealtimes, a grandchild asked, “Grandmomma and Granddaddy, how did the two of you meet?” That gave us a chance to share our love story and to get them laughing about (and trying to imagine) our old boyfriends and girlfriends. At another meal, they said, “Tell us some stories about our parents.” They absolutely LOVE hearing how their parents were when they were children or still living at home, and we love to tell the stories.

7. It’s going to become a greater challenge to find a week on the calendar that works for everyone. For the past 7 or 8 years, the last full week in July has suited everyone. Since all but 4 are homeschooled, we mostly had to try to avoid Vacation Bible School weeks, vacation weeks, children’s church camps, swimming lessons and sports camps then fit Cousins Camp in before the public school kids started back. Piece of cake, right? We don’t have to worry about the parents being motivated to work together, because they look forward to a kid-free week every year to invest in their marriages. This year we had 2 teenagers. Next year we’ll have 3 teenagers and a whole passel of pre-teens. They are a busy group with a wide range of interests. They are all in very active churches. etc. etc. etc. So, I’m just saying that finding a time when the grands CAN come to our house for a week is likely to prove more and more difficult and formidable. Steve and I are the flexible ones in this scenario. We’ve had camp in the summer every year except for when my Dad died in July. That year we had it the week leading up to Thanksgiving. It was a day and a half shorter, and we couldn’t include any swimming, but we made it work. “Where there’s a will . . . .”

Allie’s music system accompanied our times in the pool. After all, teenagers and music are synonymous.

So there you have some of the realities of hosting a Cousins Camp and the challenges likely to be encountered. It’s worth it, though, friends. For those of you who truly cannot manage a whole week with multiple children, don’t despair. Your Cousins Camp can be shorter — a few days or even just one day. Your Cousins Camp can require the parents to send already-prepared meals for the kids. You can even include the parents — although that creates a totally different dynamic. You can go more low-key with activities. You might even decide to break it down into smaller groups. Whatever works will be fine. I believe that ANY amount of investment we put into relationships with our grandchildren will reap positive benefits. The important element is love.

Maybe you don’t have any grandchildren yet. I urge you to start thinking about how you can personalize such an event to suit your own family dynamics. Steve and I have been enriched immeasurably by doing so.

And, don’t forget. As Christians, we are instructed to do our best in whatever pursuit we’re undertaking. The results are up to God.

And whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the reward of the inheritance; for you serve the Lord Christ.”
Colossians 3:23-24 (ESV)

Commit your work to the Lord,and your plans will be established.
Proverbs 16:3 (ESV)

Proverbs 17:6 – “Children’s children are a crown to the aged . . . “

Cousins Camp 2018’s Theme: NEW THINGS

08/06/2018 By: CCPearson4 Comments

It has become a Cousins Camp tradition that the grandchildren don’t learn the theme of the year’s camp until they arrive on the first day. From the day they leave each year until the time they arrive the next year, we are constantly asked to give hints about the theme. We rarely comply. Past themes have included: exotic animals, underwater creatures, around the world, Hawaii, sports and music. This year the theme was very logical to Steve and me — although the grands had not quite put it together. After all, we had just moved into a new house (exactly 2 weeks before camp began!!!!!), we built a new pool, and everyone would be sleeping in a different place than they ever had before. The trick was to figure out NEW THINGS in the way of foods and activities — something of a challenge since we’d already gone through ten previous camps. Here are many of the things we did that were new:

FOODS

Thank you, Pinterest and fellow grandmommas, for helping me with these suggestions. Make-Your-Own Texas Toast Pizzas were a big hit, as were S’Mores using candles, Homemade Pop Tarts (pie crusts filled with jam, Nutella or cinnamon and sugar) and Homemade Donuts (using biscuit dough). Another recipe we tried was Ice Cream in a Bag. The taste was delicious, but cleaning up the mess made me think that store-bought ice cream would be the saner choice for the future.

CRAFTS

Once again, Pinterest came to the rescue. The grands loved painting canvases and wooden initials during one session and decorating with buttons and sequins in the next session. When my brother’s two grandchildren joined us for most of a day, we had boards (cut from lumber left in building the new house), short nails, hammers and 14 different colors of yarn. Each child chose a design, drew it on the board, hammered nails to make an outline, then strung yarn to fill in the design. I wish we’d had a hammer for each child (we only had 6 for 13 children), and I wish I’d taken some Tylenol before the hammering began, but, oh well, you live and learn. The results of both craft projects were satisfactory and are probably hanging on various bedroom walls in Georgia, Tennessee and Alabama.

Button crafts.

RESTAURANTS

Our general way of handling meals for so many people for a week is to have breakfast at home — with Granddaddy as Top Chef. We have either lunch or dinner at home, but the other meal is at a restaurant. Group favorites include Cracker Barrel, McDonald’s, Chick-Fil-A, and pretty much any Mexican or Chinese restaurant. This year we allowed them to sample a completely different cuisine — Ethiopian. The Ghion Cultural Hall is in the Pizitz Food Hall in downtown Birmingham. Our sweet Birti, who was born in Ethiopia, was THRILLED at our choice. She particularly loves the bread-type food called injeera, but she was clearly pleased with everything offered on the buffet the day we visited. Happily, the rest of the grands were good sports and found things they could enjoy also. It turned out to be our most expensive meal of the week, so we might not go again with so many, but I’m still very glad we let the cousins give it a try.

One more thing — 99-cent Taco Nights at 2 of the Mexican restaurants in Hartselle were life- and budget-savers. Woohoo! Thank you, Las Vias and Don Alejo. I predict this will become a Cousins Camp tradition. Please don’t stop.

Granddaddy supervising breakfast.

Ghion Cultural Hall – Ethiopian Restaurant in Birmingham

ACTIVITIES

For about 5 years now, we have taken the kids bowling at River City Lanes in Decatur, and we’ve played some rounds at Funland Putt-Putt, also in Decatur. We’ve honed our skills at several different art studios and created paintings, generally related to our theme for the week. In past years, we’ve visited Cathedral Caverns, Harmony Park Safari, Birmingham Zoo, Nashville Shores, Jesse Owens Museum, EarlyWorks Museum, Alabama Music Hall of Fame and the Space and Rocket Center — among other places. But, what could we do this year that was NEW??

Golden Flake Potato Chip Factory in Birmingham — This is actually a very popular place for tours, and we were lucky to find a time in their schedule. The rules are pretty strict — close-toed shoes, no photos, must wear a hairnet, etc — but the tour is free, and it only lasts about 30-40 minutes. At the end of the tour, you walk away with 3 bags of chips in your hairnet. Win-win!

Golden Flake Factory in Birmingham

Kelly Ingram Park across from the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute — The Institute has an entry fee, but you can walk through the park and see the outside of 16th Avenue Baptist Church for free. The park has many explanatory signs and sculptures scattered throughout. It makes a deep impression. Metered parking spaces surround the park.

Kelly Ingram Park across from the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute

Vulcan Park and Museum in Birmingham — Any time 13 people can get in an attraction for less than $50, I consider that to be reasonably-priced. At the Vulcan, you can walk around the grounds, tour the museum and gift shop, ride the elevator to the top for amazing views of the city, and have a picnic or snack at the shaded tables. I took bottled waters and snacks that hit the spot after checking out the surroundings. It was fun to tell the kids about how the Vulcan used to have a torch that was either green or red based on traffic fatalities and to explain about the iron/steel connection leading to naming “The Game” the Iron Bowl.

Vulcan Park and Museum

Top Golf in Huntsville — This was one of our splurges for our week — about $150 for an hour for 12 players — but the place is SO NICE. I told Steve I hope he’ll take me back for a date sometime. Before noon is the cheapest time to go, and it’s great that the computers handle all the scoring. All you have to do is manage to get that ball off the tee and out onto one of the target areas. Not as easy as you might think. Clubs are provided, even clubs for kids. This was a hit with almost all of the kids.

UpSurge in Decatur — Another splurge on our itinerary, UpSurge is an indoor trampoline park in Decatur behind Wiley Sporting Goods. The cost was $167 for an hour for 11 kids, but that included about $40 worth of special socks that are required — something we won’t have to purchase the next time. It was clean, well-supervised, and surprisingly uncrowded. The kids got a lot of exercise and NO ONE GOT HURT. Hallelujah! Waivers are required, so I had the Mommas fill those out on-line and submit them ahead of time (without spilling the beans to the kids).

Ivy Green, Helen Keller Birthplace, in Tuscumbia — Ivy Green, like the Vulcan Park, was less than $50 for 13 people. The tour was very well-done, and the displays, grounds, furnishings are well-preserved. It is a place and a story that makes you proud that Helen Keller and Annie Sullivan are associated with Alabama. It takes about an hour to take advantage of this historic facility. I recommend it.

Ivy Green at the famous water pump.

This year’s group of grands ranged in age from 5 to 17. All of them appeared to enjoy at least some aspects of each of these attractions. Now, what in the WORLD will we find next year?

P.S. If you’re interested in the nitty-gritty details of hosting your own Cousins Camp, look for the book Steve and I are in the process of writing to be published in the coming year.

Cousins Camp 2018: Blessings We Can’t Take for Granted

08/03/2018 By: CCPearson4 Comments

The 11th Annual Pearson Cousins Camp ended last Saturday, July 28th, and once again, the prayers of our children and friends, coupled with our own fervent prayers, were answered for a successful week together. Here are some special blessings that I want to praise God for in particular:

WE STAYED SAFE AND HEALTHY. Believe me when I say that this first one is not to be taken lightly. After all, we were in the pool everyday, we cooked everyday, and we were on the highways everyday. One afternoon, we (meaning THEY) were even jumping on trampolines! At the end of the week, I had only applied ONE Bandaid (for a tiny scrape on an arm that was only detectable by the child requesting the Bandaid), and I had not administered a single dose of medicine. Since the memories are still fresh of 1) the 2nd Cousins Camp when Nathan tumbled head first down a flight of metal stairs less than 30 minutes after his arrival and spent the rest of the week with a black and blue face, 2) the 3rd Cousins Camp when Seth ran a high fever and his parents were in ZAMBIA, and 3) the 10th Cousins Camp when Luke barfed all over the kitchen floor right in front of Allie who is absolutely paranoid about throwing up — just trust me, Steve and I will never fail to be extra grateful when we go through an entire week without injury or illness. Thank you, God.
WE MADE MORE MEMORIES AND FORMED YET ANOTHER LAYER OF LOVE AND FRIENDSHIP. At the end of our time together, we always have new “sayings,” new buzz words, new inside jokes, new songs that last us for months and become part of our Cousins Camp lore. If you see one of the children in the coming months, ask them to name a few. I have no doubt you’ll be entertained.
WE HAD AN UNEXPECTED OPPORTUNITY TO REPRESENT THE PEOPLE OF ALABAMA TO A LADY FROM BOSTON. While visiting Kelly Ingram Park in Birmingham on our first full day together, we were all wearing our Hartselle Tigers t-shirts, and I was explaining about what life was like in Birmingham in the 1950’s and 60’s, when Granddaddy and I were their ages. We were standing near the 16th Avenue Baptist Church where 4 young girls were killed by a bomb in 1963, and I was trying to help them understand about the sculptures depicting attack dogs, policemen and children in jail. They had a hard time understanding a period in history when such things took place. Instinctively, they knew it was wrong to treat fellow humans in such a way. A lady standing nearby came over and wanted to know what kind of group we were. When we explained that we were a family and these were our grandchildren, she was completely intrigued. Those few minutes of watching and listening appeared to change her perception of people in Alabama and how they felt about those events. She was so glad to know that we were ashamed and sorry that such things had taken place. She went on to explain that she was from Boston, but her daughter was in school at UAB. I believe God put us in her path to give her some reassurances. You just never know when someone is watching and listening. A great lesson for the kids . . . and a good reminder for me.
WE LEARNED VALUABLE LIFE LESSONS THROUGH FREE PLAY TIME AND THROUGH OUR FIELD TRIPS (which we like to call “Mystery Trips”). In short order, the grands themselves saw that the new pool table would need some kind of “system” to make playing time fair. Luke, the cousin organizer, quickly asked for paper and pen and drew up a kind of tournament-type schedule. Steve and I didn’t have to intervene. Everyone was satisfied. At the end of the week, we visited Ivy Green, the childhood home of Helen Keller and learned her story. The visit made an impression that led to some very meaningful discussions later. While bowling, we saw Nathan and Rosemary emerge as high scorers, but at Top Golf, Seth was clearly more skilled. Doing crafts revealed others with particular acumen with their hands. The lesson was that everyone is good at SOMETHING, but no one is good at EVERYTHING. You get the idea. Learning occurred in practically everything we did. When you’re a teacher at heart, that makes for a feeling of success and accomplishment.
WE DELIGHTED IN EACH CHILD’S PERSONALITY AND TALENTS.
Allie after climbing all the steps both up and down at the Vulcan. She will graduate from high school next May. Her maturity is increasing by leaps and bounds.

Luke at the top of the Vulcan. We enjoy Luke’s ventriloquism and very busy brain. He’s now the tallest cousin.

Nathan good-naturedly posing with his artwork.
Nathan loves sports of all kinds. This week he excelled in swimming and bowling.

Seth cheesing it up for the camera. Seth jumped for joy when he heard we were going to Top Golf.

Margaret with her carefully-planned button craft. She played the piano for us on several occasions.

Birti so excited that we were in an Ethiopian restaurant. We discovered she’s very skilled at doing hairstyles for her girl cousins.

Megan sporting her braided hair. Megan is learning to speak up more and express her opinions.

Penelope about to enjoy a game of pool. She’s an avid reader. Her mischievous ways seem to be becoming more fun-filled.

Rosemary with an extra-toothy grin. She has an unique ability to get along with everyone and is very resilient.

Sam looking out on Birmingham. He does a great job of keeping up with the older guys and is quite a natural athlete.

Bethany with her button craft. She is becoming increasingly independent. Her self-confidence and spiritual awareness are both growing rapidly.
THE GRANDCHILDREN EXPRESSED THEIR GRATITUDE. The smiles, laughter and hugs are reward enough, but when you go back in the bedrooms after they’ve left and find handwritten thank-you notes, it is an unbelievable blessing. When your teenage grandson calls you “TheBomb.com,” it is taken as the highest possible praise.

Monday’s post will outline some of the week’s activities, and next Friday we’ll take a look at Cousins Camp Challenges. Also, a book is in the works with philosophy, suggestions, and recipes for present and future grandparents who are thinking of hosting their own version of Cousins Camp. But, for today, let me continue to thank God for His provision and protection while we were together last week.

Psalm 75:1 – “We give thanks to Thee, O God, we give thanks, for Thy name is near, Men declare Thy wondrous works.”

Psalm 89:1 – “I will sing of the lovingkindness of the Lord forever; to all generations I will make known Thy faithfulness with my mouth.”

2 Weeks in Italy: Favorite Scenes (Revisited)

07/30/2018 By: CCPearson1 Comment

(I am declaring a one-month sabbatical from blogging for July. The two reasons? 1) We’re FINALLY moving into our new house, and I desperately need to “make it into a home,” with all of the organizing, picture-hanging, accessorizing that entails. 2) The 11th Annual Pearson Cousins Camp will be held July 22-28. That week requires complete focus, attention and meticulous planning. So, for this month, we will revisit some of my favorite posts from the past three years that I have been blogging here at ThereGoesConnie.com).

I’ll be back “live” on Friday, August 3, 2018. Thanks for your understanding. More great recommendations dead ahead. 🙂

2 Weeks in Italy — Favorite Scenes that Linger in My Mind

09/21/2015 BY: CCPEARSONCOMMENT

Between my camera, Steve’s camera, and my cellphone, I’m sure we have close to a thousand photos. But, as I reflect on our two weeks in the diverse country of Italy, full of history, natural beauty and incredible food, I wanted to try to pick my favorite scenes and events as a way to summarize the experience from my perspective and bring this series of blogs to a close.

1) We began our trip in Rome, and for me, the most stirring sight was the Coliseum. It was not only massive in its construction, but it was also the place where many people were so committed to their belief in Jesus Christ as the Messiah that they were martyred for their faith. They died horrible deaths from gladiators and lions rather than to denounce what was in their hearts. I look forward to standing around The Throne with them in heaven some day.

2) Positano and the drive along the Amalfi Coast were both incredibly gorgeous. Steve and I were on the coast of California a few months before this trip, and it was beautiful, too, but I believe the Italian coast cranked it up a notch. I wish you could see — and I wish I had the words to describe — the blue of the Mediterranean. Oh my. And the colorful villages that cling to the rocks? Let’s just say that artists have endless inspirations here.

3) Our cooking class in Florence was SO MUCH FUN. I highly recommend that you take a cooking class of some kind when you’re in Italy. Many are offered, and if I went back, I’d definitely sign up for another one. You’ll learn something, you’ll have a great meal, and you’ll laugh a lot in the process. We worked alongside a couple from New York who had been married for only six days!! Yes, they were COOKING on their honeymoon. 🙂 What was even more incredible was learning that the young husband had grown up as a Missionary Kid in Japan, and his parents are still serving as Southern Baptist missionaries there. Small, small world.

4) I will remember the sight of Steve waving down to me from the top of the Leaning Tower of Pisa. Healthy physical specimen that he is, he made it to the top, took a lot of pictures, and came back down in less than 24 minutes!!! A new Pearson family record! Ha! The tower itself was prettier than I anticipated. I believe you’ll enjoy seeing it. If I could go back, I would spend more time in the center of town where it is located, because there are other important museums and sights there as well.

5) The Tuscan countryside is breath-taking. Pictures just don’t do it justice. Miles and miles of vineyards, olive groves, villas and rolling hills — so vibrant and alive. You find yourself basking in all of the scenery and wondering just which direction you should attempt to aim your camera. If/when I go back, I’ll probably want to rent a villa in this region and just stay for several days soaking it all up. Notice the deep purple color of the grapes — very unlike the ones that used to grow behind my grandparents’ house that were used for grape jelly.

6) I loved walking into the piazza in Siena because I had enjoyed the movie “Letters to Juliet” while anticipating the trip. It was like being an “extra” in that movie — especially when we stopped to eat gelato in almost the exact place where the main characters ate theirs.

7) Steve and I are so glad we had the chance to see Leonardo da Vinci’s painting of “The Last Supper.” It was a moving, spiritual experience for us. Yes, we know that people in Bible days reclined at tables, rather than sat, but that fact didn’t take away from the impact of the painting at all. Da Vinci had evidently studied the New Testament and understood a lot about the character and personality of each of the disciples. He, too, had to have been a devout Christian to understand the importance of placing Jesus at the center and how he used divisions of three to represent the Trinity. The painting is a representation of what took place immediately AFTER Jesus told the disciples that one of them would betray Him. All of them look astonished and have strong reactions, except for Judas who is reaching his hand toward the plate, going on about the business of eating the meal. Of course, no photos are allowed inside, but this one shows Steve in front of a depiction in the Piazza of Santa Maria Grazie in Milan where the painting is located.

8) When I think of our trip, the faces of our friends Rick and Martine Sharp are woven into virtually every scene. We toured famous places together. We traveled on every possible means of transportation together. We stayed in the same hotels. They bailed us out when Steve’s wallet was stolen. And, of course, we enjoyed many, many delicious meals and cones of gelato together. We laughed A LOT. It is very sad to realize that we will no longer be able to spend time with Rick. We miss him. Martine, we are truly blessed to have had this experience with the two of you.

9) There is a saying in Rome that if you turn your back away from the Trevi Fountain and toss a coin over your shoulder, then you will return to Rome some day in the future. Well, here I am trying my best to toss my coin with Steve trying equally hard to catch that coin so he can put it back in his pocket. Ha! Those of you who know him well will understand completely. He doesn’t like to waste ANY money. However, I believe I WAS successful in my effort, so someday in the future, I hope to return.

“Arrivederci, Italia.” Till we meet again, farewell.

Bama Bed and Breakfast: Tuscaloosa, AL (Revisited)

07/27/2018 By: CCPearsoncomment

Those who know me well will likely be surprised to see this post from Tuscaloosa, AL. War Eagle! But, when I first started as a travel writer, I spent a couple of truly delightful days in T-Town and spent a wonderful night at the Bama Bed and Breakfast. I highly recommend that you experience the great hospitality of the innkeepers.

A Few Days in Rival Territory — Bama Bed and Breakfast

02/01/2016 BY: CCPEARSON2 COMMENTS

Imagine staying in a bedroom that was once occupied by Union troops who commandeered the house during the Civil War. Imagine hearing whispers in the hall between the Union captain and the homeowner’s daughter as they fell in love and made promises for the future. Imagine the careful actions of the homeowner and his family as they hoped against hope their home wouldn’t be burned to the ground when the soldiers left Tuscaloosa and headed to another battleground.

Bama Bed and Breakfast, campus location, was built in 1823 as a result of a 125-acre land grant signed by President James Monroe, 5th President of the United States. The home has been continually occupied since that date but didn’t officially open its doors as a Bed and Breakfast until August 2015, just in time for football season. Bama B & B also has a lakeside location hosted by Marc and Kim Roberts. Kim’s parents, Bob and Yvonne Schwartz, are the gracious hosts at the campus location.

It is a very striking structure. The front columns were originally ordered for a building on the University of Alabama campus. But, when the columns arrived, they didn’t fit, so this home at 46 Sherwood Drive was the lucky recipient.

Exterior of the Bama B & B campus location with columns originally intended for a university building.

I drove in at 10:00 a.m. on Martin Luther King, Jr. Day just hoping to be able to park my car in their lot while I toured Tuscaloosa. But, Marc, Bob and Yvonne greeted me enthusiastically and insisted that I go ahead and bring in my bags. I was led to the Capstone Suite where a beautifully-decorated room awaited. My friend, Dr. Beth Long, and I were then given a quick tour of the gorgeous home filled with antiques and period furnishings and accessories.

Marc, Bob and Yvonne giving a warm welcome.

I noticed that the dining room table was adorned with houndstooth placemats and elephant napkin rings and casually (well, maybe not TOO casually) mentioned that I was a big Auburn fan. In an extremely thoughtful gesture, when I came down for breakfast the next morning, those had been removed and some blue floral ones were in their place. Now THAT my friends is personal, caring service.

Dining room complete with houndstooth placemats.

Speaking of breakfast, it was prepared primarily by Bob because Yvonne had had foot surgery a few weeks earlier. He did a great job. Delicious food. Yvonne’s specialty — cocoa syrup (aka chocolate gravy) — was a happily-anticipated treat. Yvonne also had homemade cookies waiting in the foyer.

Foyer table with tempting treats

While I was in my room, I noticed that every possible need of an overnight guest had been provided — including a make-up towel, Q-tips, current magazines, and free wi-fi, just to name a FEW. Inside the spacious closet was a safe, a microwave, a fridge, a Keurig machine, and a small icemaker. Wow. The bed linens were luxurious and so, so comfortable.

Spacious bathroom featuring a clawfoot tub.

Yellow and blue Capstone Suite.

Marc and Kim, Bob and Yvonne genuinely enjoy having guests. If you are planning to visit Tuscaloosa in the future, I heartily recommend that you give either of their locations a try.

Bama Bed and Breakfast Explore their website for all the necessary details.

7 Must-Do Activities for San Francisco (Revisited)

07/23/2018 By: CCPearsoncomment

7 Ways to Feel Like You Really Went to San Francisco

06/15/2015 BY: CCPEARSON4 COMMENTS

(This is a print we bought as a souvenir. It hangs in a place we pass frequently to remind us of our wonderful time in the City by the Bay.)

1) Ride a cable car. It’s a must! Every movie or television show you’ve ever seen that is set in San Francisco shows them. The views are wonderful. The drivers are entertaining. It doesn’t cost very much. You’ll kick yourself if you don’t. Steve and I both rode UP, then he chose to walk back down through Chinatown and the Crooked Street. I wish I’d been with him.

2) Stroll around Fisherman’s Wharf. See what’s for sale. Smell the fresh seafood. Savor the feeling of being on the Bay. People watch. Enjoy the colorful boats docked there.

3) Eat sourdough bread SEVERAL TIMES. Crusty on the outside, soft on the inside. So yummy! Boudin’s is the place at Fisherman’s Wharf.

4) Eat chocolate at Ghiradelli Square. Yes, it will cost more there than at your local grocery store, but just do it so you can say you did. There are other neat things to buy there, but don’t by-pass the chocolate. I’m telling ya.

5) Take a narrated bay cruise to Alcatraz. Even if you don’t actually go into the former prison, it is still eye-opening to understand where it is, who was housed there, what an escape would have involved, etc. Let’s just say it will enhance your understanding in novels and old movies.

6) Drive up to Napa Valley and Sonoma to tour a vineyard. It’s only a few miles up the road. Steve and I are non-alcohol people, but we still enjoyed seeing the gorgeous fields of grapes and learning about the wine-making process. Somewhere in my mind, I knew that yeast was involved, but it wasn’t until I walked into the Gloria Ferrar Winery and started looking for the homemade bread (without finding any) that I knew for sure that yeast was a part of the process. And, just so you know, there are plenty of sodas, juices or flavored waters available while the rest of your group has their wine-tasting.

By the way, everyone scattered for lunch in the town of Sonoma. We happened upon a Mexican restaurant called “Maya.” Here is the review I shared on Trip Advisor about it: The Best Mexican We’ve Ever Eaten “My husband and I were in Sonoma for a few hours recently and happened upon Maya for lunch. We were so pleased with the results. We shared “Oh-So-Good” Nachos and Chicken Enchiladas. Both were absolutely bursting with flavor and fresh ingredients. Our service was good, and the prices were very reasonable. We would highly recommend that you give it a try.”

7) View the Golden Gate Bridge from every possible angle. It truly is a beautiful symbol of the city, and what a serendipity for Auburn fans that it is painted ORANGE. We happened to be on a tour bus by the time we headed out of San Francisco. The tour director brilliantly made sure we heard Frank Sinatra croon “I Left My Heart in San Francisco” as we drove over it for our final time on this visit. A perfect moment in my book.

For a hotel in a great location, we liked the Hilton Fisherman’s Wharf. See the website here.

Several restaurants we recommend are: Alioto’s, Beach Street Grill, and Joe’s Crab Shack. All three are reasonably priced with good food.

On our next visit to San Francisco, I’m sure we’d repeat numbers 1, 2, 3, and 7 again, and maybe even 4, 5, and 6. Why skimp on fun??

Don’t Miss the Lobsters in Maine (Revisited)

07/20/2018 By: CCPearsoncomment

Maine Impressions — LOBSTERS!!

10/24/2016 BY: CCPEARSONCOMMENT

A memorable scene from Forrest Gump occurs when his friend Bubba drones on endlessly about the many ways that shrimp can been prepared and eaten. As a refresher, watch it here.

When we got off the plane in Portland, Maine recently, one of my goals was to experience lobster, Maine lobster, in as many ways as I could find. After all, hadn’t we just come to the Lobster Capital of the United States, maybe even the world?? According to a March 4, 2016 article in Portland Press Herald, lobstermen in Maine hauled a record $616.5 million worth of lobsters in 2015, derived from 276.5 million pounds. Stacks of lobster traps and displays of colorful lobster buoys are common there but very uncommon for our native Alabamian eyes.

Lobster buoys and traps in Boothbay Harbor.

I had not eaten lobster since a very nice date during college insisted I order it in a restaurant and try it for the first time. I remembered liking it, but there again, over 45 years had passed in the meantime.

Fresh from the lobster boat ready for the boiling pot.

Since I wasn’t positive I’d really like it, I ordered a combination lobster/crab roll for one of our first lunches in Kennebunkport. I liked the crab, but I LOVED the lobster, so it was full on after that.

A lobster roll in Boothbay Harbor. It tastes even better eaten outdoors overlooking the harbor.

For dinner that night, we had lobster bisque served in a coffee mug, then lobster mac and cheese. Both were delicious. The lobster mac and cheese was fancier than the name implied with huge chunks of lobster and both fontina and Gruyere cheeses.

Lobster mac and cheese in Kennebunkport.

During our first night in Rockland, we decided to go for broke and order “the whole deal” and try our best to crack that beast and coax out the meat. It was an ordeal and a lot of work. Dishes where the lobster has been picked out for you are much better deals. Trust me.

My lobster bib getting ready to tackle the whole monster.

All except the white albino lobsters turn red when they’re cooked. I think they look better when they are this nice color.

While watching the Auburn game at a sports bar in Bar Harbor (see what I did there?), we enjoyed hot crab and lobster dip on flatbread wedges. Oh my goodness. YUMMMMM!!

After about 3 days of lobster, we decided to move on to some of the other delectable seafood choices and found the haddock and scallops to be amazing. If you are a seafood lover, I strongly recommend a trip to Maine. Try some dishes that aren’t fried and don’t expect hushpuppies, and you’ll be very satisfied. I promise.

Just as a quick side note, we had breakfast one day with a couple from Cape Cod. They had no plans to eat lobster in Maine declaring that the lobster on their part of the coast was much “sweeter and softer.” Maybe that calls for another exploration trip. 🙂

When you’re planning your trip, check the websites for these restaurants:

Pier 77 at Cape Porpoise near Kennebunkport

Mabel’s Lobster Claw, Kennebunkport

Alisson’s, Kennebunkport

Archer’s on the Pier, Rockland

Mariner’s Grill, Camden

The Pearl on the Pier, Rockland

Paddy’s Irish Pub, Bar Harbor

The Chart Room, Bar Harbor

Be aware that some of these may only be open for “the season” which basically runs from Memorial Day till Columbus Day, so do your research.

Highlands Bar and Grill: Excellence in Birmingham, Alabama (Revisited)

07/16/2018 By: CCPearson2 Comments

Highlands Bar and Grill and their wonderful Pastry Chef Dolester Miles won the James Beard awards 2018 for Outstanding Restaurant and Outstanding Pastry Chef!!!!! Amazing accomplishment for Frank Stitt and his team, and it’s right here in Alabama. Reason to be proud.

Highlands Bar and Grill: A Sublime Birthday Dinner in Birmingham

07/04/2016 BY: CCPEARSONCOMMENT

Do not, I repeat, do NOT wait as long as I did to have dinner at Highlands Bar and Grill in Birmingham. It. Is. Wonderful.

Frank Stitt opened his restaurant in what was then a very unlikely location in 1982 using funds from his mother who mortgaged her house because she believed that her son had the skills and the opportunity to be successful. Banks weren’t as confident, but Stitt proved them wrong. Boy, did he prove them wrong!

Stitt is an award-winning chef who has generously mentored other chefs who are making their culinary marks on the world. But, in addition to outstanding food, his restaurants have an unparalleled level of attention to detail and impeccable service.

Steve and I were in Birmingham for a few days recently to celebrate my birthday and made reservations for dinner at Highlands. Conveniently, it was located directly behind the Hassinger Daniels Mansion B & B where we were staying, so we could walk. But, there is an adjacent parking lot if you are staying somewhere else or just driving in for dinner.

We had an amazing time from the moment we walked in the door. Goren Avery, a 33-year wait staff veteran at Highlands, is a total delight. He knows the menu thoroughly, and furthermore, he understands PEOPLE.

Highlands is bustling and full of energy, but we never felt rushed in any way. We savored each course slowly and deliberately. Such delicious food!!!

Highlands even has an award-winning pastry chef, Dolester Miles. I can understand completely why some diners make reservations to come just for her over-the-top desserts.

Plan a true treat for yourself soon. The decor, the atmosphere, the staff, the drink menu (we chose a couple off of their list of Temperance Drinks, of course), the appetizers, the entrees, and the desserts ALL rate an A+ in my gradebook. Peruse the website and read all of the stories that have been published about it. Include my recent review for MilesGeek.com when you make your reservation. Enjoy!

So, this original review was posted in 2016, but we returned for an anniversary dinner in March of 2018. Here are some photos from our outstanding dinner that night — quail, venison and Aurora Tart. Oh my!

Manchester Farms Quail for an appetizer.

Grilled venison with sweet potato hash and collards for an entree.

Beautiful caramel custard tart, with chantilly cream and candied hazelnuts created by award-winning pastry chef, Dolester Miles.

Interior of Highlands with gleaming white tablecloths and uniformed servers.

P.S. If you are visiting Birmingham for a few days, Frank Stitt has added 3 more restaurants in the same area of Historic Five Points — Bottega, Bottega Cafe, and Chez Fon Fon. Each has its own distinctive menu and emphasis.

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