KEHA
Inspirational Programs
2009-2010
This booklet has been prepared by the Lincoln Trail Area (Breckinridge, Grayson, Larue, Hardin, Marion, Meade, Nelson and Washington Counties) specifically for Kentucky Extension Homemakers and printing costs have
been paid by the Kentucky Extension Homemakers Association.
July
Independence Day
Freedom is something we often take for granted but just hearing the word makes us stop to think about how blessed we are. We have many national symbols for freedom, the Declaration of Independence, the Liberty Bell, even our American Flag represents our freedom. This month as we celebrate Independence Day, often mistakenly refer to as the 4th of July, stop and reflect on the sacrifices made to ensure our freedom. Lives given, family time sacrificed, and dreams delayed. How fortunate we are to live in this great country! What does freedom mean to you?
August
In kindergarten your idea of a good friend was the person who let you have the red crayon when all that was left was the ugly black one. In first grade your idea of a good friend was the person who went to the bathroom with you and held your hand as you walked through the scary halls. In second grade your idea of a good friend was the person who helped you stand up to the class bully. In third grade your idea of a good friend was the person who shared their lunch with you when you forgot yours on the bus. In fourth grade your idea of a good friend was the person who was willing to switch square dancing partners in gym so you wouldn't have to be stuck do-si-do-ing with Nasty Nick or Smelly Susan. In fifth grade your idea of a friend was the person who saved a seat on the back of the bus for you. In sixth grade your idea of a friend was the person who went up to Nick or Susan, your new crush, and asked them to dance with you so that if they said no you wouldn't have to be embarrassed. In seventh grade your idea of a friend was the person who let you copy the social studies homework from the night before that you had forgotten to do. In eighth grade your idea of a good friend was the person who helped you pack up your stuffed animals and old baseball but didn't laugh at you when you finished and broke out into tears. In ninth grade your idea of a good friend was the person who would go to a party thrown by a senior so you wouldn't wind up being the only freshman there. In tenth grade your idea of a good friend was the person who changed their schedule so you would have someone to sit with at lunch. In eleventh grade your idea of a good friend was the person who gave you rides in their new car, convinced your parents that you shouldn't be grounded, consoled you when you broke up with Nick or Susan, and found you a date to the prom. In twelfth grade your idea of a good friend was the person who helped you pick out a college/university, assured you that you would get into that college/university, helped you deal with your parents who were having a hard time adjusting to the idea of letting you go... At graduation your idea of a good friend was the person who was crying on the inside but managed the biggest smile one could give as they congratulated you. Now, your idea of a good friend is still the person who gives you the better of the two choices, holds your hand when you're scared, helps you fight off those who try to take advantage of you, thinks of you at times when you are not there, reminds you of what you have forgotten, helps you put the past behind you but understands when you need to hold on to it a little longer, stays with you so that you have confidence, goes out of their way to make time for you, helps you clear up your mistakes, helps you deal with pressure from others, smiles for you when they are sad, helps you become a better person, and most importantly loves you!
September
These Hills
I saw the beauty of God revealed, “In the wild flowers on the hill!”
I saw the Lady Slipper’s look so fine. And all the wild ones of every kind.
I saw the dew on the morning grass, rain drops on the rose petals as if a tear
for the beauty so fine.
I love this life in these hills of mine.
I heard the whippoorwills sing so sweet.
I’ve heard the frogs and their repeat,
As they talk to each other so sweet.
The mockingbirds sing to me.
I love these hills! Don’t you see!
By: Eva Friend Wood
October
Things Money Can’t Buy
There are things money can’t buy, Like the blue of the sky.
Looking down from the top of a hill, While everything is quiet and still.
Looking over a valley of green,
Or looking at a brook’s silver sheen.
Flowers blooming in the spring, Listening to the birds’ sing.
Watching a butterfly’s flight, Alighting on a flower so bright.
Looking at towers of spruce trees, On a hill with their autumn leaves.
These are some of the things; God gave us to share,
While He keeps these things, And us, in his loving care.
Shirley Stinnett Written January 24, 2009
November A POEM OF THANKSGIVING
Many years ago, a Kentucky gentleman who prefers to remain anonymous awoke early on Thanksgiving morning and penned the following words. You may find, as many have, that his expression of gratitude speaks to your heart:
"I am thankful for the gift of life, for the opportunity to breathe and move and see, for the invisible energy that lovingly beats my heart.
"I am thankful for the opportunity to give to and receive from those around me. I am grateful for the privacy of my thoughts, for the freedom to think whatever I wish. I deeply appreciate the little pleasures and joys of life--the sound of children at play, the movement of clouds, the touch of loved ones, the early morning fragrance of dew-kissed roses.
"I am thankful for all the unavoidable hurts, setbacks, disappointments, and times of deep pain--for these teach me patience, humility, and endurance. I do not seek suffering, but when it comes I accept it as a friend who guides, imparts wisdom, and teaches of rising above pain.
"I appreciate all the people in my life--those dear ones who comfort me and cheer me on, and those who so creatively challenge my patience, kindness and self-control. Without such people, how would I ever learn to grow in understanding, strength and compassion?
"I am grateful for all those who have gone before me, giving of their lives, creativity and love. I am thankful for the food that sustains my body, for gentle smiles and the music of laughter, for the colorful faces of wayside flowers. I give thanks for the springtime breezes, for the warm caress of the sun, the winter's blanket of white, the soft glow of moonlit nights, and the pitter-patter of raindrops upon the parched earth.
"I accept loss and death, and give thanks for the deepening of my spirit they bring. I am thankful for my growing sense of inner calmness, trust and faith that gives me assurance in the face of the unknown. I deeply appreciate the wondrous gift of friendship, the Friend behind all friends, and the delight of quietly, invisibly putting others first.
"So very deeply, I appreciate the warmth of love in my heart that silences my fears, guides me, and fills me with optimism about the future. With grateful anticipation, I embrace the unfolding adventure and mystery of life. I am grateful for the yet-to-be-discovered opportunities and delights that are sure to come my way.
"I am thankful for the glory of this present moment, and for the unfolding of each new moment. And I am thankful for my thankfulness--for the gift of gratitude--and the clarity, strength and joy it bestows."
Prepared by Sam Quick, Ph.D., Human Development & Family Relations Specialist, in 2003. Sam has since retired from The Cooperative Extension Service
December
Ode to the Feed Sack
In that long time ago when things were saved, When roads. were graveled and barrels were staved,
When worn out clothing were used as rags, And there were no plastic wrap or bags, And the well pumps were way out back, A versatile item was the feed sack.
Irvington Milling, Mattingly's Grocery, Sirrocco's store too,
Stamped their names proudly in black, purple and blue.
The string sewn on top was pulled out and kept, The feed emptied and spills were swept. The bag was folded and stored in a rack,The durable, practical feed sack.
The sack could be filled with feathers and down, For a pillows, or t'would make a nice sleeping gown. It could carry a book and be a school bag, Or become a mail sack over a nag.
It made a very convenient pack, That adaptable, cotton, feed sack.
Bleached and sewn, it was dutifully worn, As bibs, diapers or kerchief adorned. It has made skirts, blouses and slips, And mom braided rugs from one hundred strips.
She made ruffled curtains for the house or shack, From that humble but treasured feed sack. As a strainer for milk or apple juice. To wave men in from the field, it was always in use.
As a sling for a sprained wrist or a break, To help mother roll up a jelly cake. As a window shade or to stuff a crack, We used a sturdy, common feed sack.
As dish towels, embroidered or not, The covered up dough, helped with pans so hot, Tied up dishes of food for neighbors in need, And for men out in the field to plant seed.
They dried dishes from pan, not rack, That absorbent, handy feed sack! We polished and cleaned both stove and table, Scoured and scrubbed from cellar to gable.
We dusted the bureau and oak bed post, Made costumes for October, a scary ghost! So now my friends, when they ask you, As curious youngsters often do,
Before plastic wrap and Elmer’s glue And paper towels, what did you do? Tell them loudly and with pride don't slack, "Grandmother had that wonderful feed sack!"
Found in Moms closet so neatly put away It was proudly made in the USA! Has now become a stocking for your tree.
Proudly stitched by your sister, aunt or Mom Whichever it may be! Merry Christmas
-written by Monica Livers Brown
January
An Old Fashioned Cover
January brings cold weather and little feels better than snuggling under an old fashioned quilt. Soften by time and laundry and made of pieces of memories past. Many of us have been honored with a quilt made by a special person. What a priceless present!
I’m an old fashioned cover Not so handsome you’ll agree, And I’m sent to stay with you,
Not as ornament to be. But to serve you day and night,
Let me cover thee.
Many years was I in the making, Only scraps of various size,
Gathered now and then as trimmings From the garments grandma prizes.
Each one finished, she saved the patches And from these my start arises.
Other hands that like to fashion Clipped and cut me up just so, Fit together forms and colors And at the machine did sew
Pieces blocks and strips together Until my top did grow.
When my face was quite completed Others thought of back as well. And some cotton in between
So I’d become more than a shell. Then the countless stitches taken How many I can’t begin to tell.
Now if you will give me room
And let me serve you in some way, I’ll be happy as can be
And always want just there to stay, May we start up life together
On this happy day.
Author: Anna Bridge, 1935
February On February 12, 1809 Abraham Lincoln was born at Sinking Creek Farm in what was then Hardin County Kentucky but later became part of Larue County. When he became the 16th President of the United States he was the first President born outside the original 13 colonies. Throughout his life he encountered many hardships but his endurance and persistence has made a tremendous impact on our Country. When you think life is too difficult think about his life and look forward to great things!
1816 His family was forced out of their home. He had to work to support them.
1818 His mother died.
1831 Failed in business.
1832 Ran for state legislature but lost.
1832 Also lost his job—wanted to go to law school but couldn’t get in.
1833 Borrowed some money from a friend to begin a business and by the end of the year he was bankrupt. He spent the next 17 years of his life paying off this debt.
1834 Ran for state legislature again and won.
1835 Was engaged to be married but his sweetheart died and his heart was broken.
1836 Had a total nervous breakdown and was in bed for six months.
1838 Sought to become speaker of the state legislature but was defeated.
1840 Sought to become elector but was defeated.
1843 Ran for Congress and lost.
1846 Ran for Congress again and won—went to Washington and did a good job.
1848 Ran for re-election to Congress but lost.
1849 Sought the job of land officer in his home state but was rejected.
1854 Ran for Senate of the United States but lost.
1856 Sought the Vice-Presidential nomination at his party’s national convention and received
less than 100 votes.
1858 Ran for U.S. Senate again and lost.
1860 Elected president of the United States.
March
If You Could,
Would You Turn Back the Pages of Time?
Would you open the door, walk through the past, once more?
Would you bring the ghost of happiness back again, to live among men?
Would you sing the songs of old, that stirred your heart, filled your soul?
Would you dance to the music all night, not catch your breath, ‘till first light?
Would you walk the road again, to a place called ‘way back when’?
Would you find much joy and loving care, when your journey took you there?
Would you ever find a time, a day, without sorrow along the way?
Would you find sadness, pain and fear, if in your mind you lingered there?
Would you want to live each day again, in a time of ‘way back when’?
Would you want to meet loved ones ever so dear, their sweet voices hear?
Would you, could you, recall only the happy ways, not remember the other days?
Nay that you cannot do! You must surely know that is true!
Good and bad, entwined together, bonded as one, now and forever.
Written by: Nellie Laslie 2007
April
April Showers Bring May Flowers
April is a great month to open the windows and allow the fresh air of spring into our houses. It is a great time to clean out all the clutter that has accumulated over the winter months as the cold weather has briskly
persuaded us to stay indoors. April is also a great month to clean our minds and inventory our future. It is a time to allow fresh thinking and to forgive
past hurts which sometimes prevent us from thinking forward with joy. April is also a great time to stop and look at the beauty that surrounds us,
giving us pause to appreciate all we have been blessed to behold. May you be showered with a gentle refreshing rain!
May
Motherhood
This bond between mothers and daughters is grand Now that I’m both I can understand
That to meet life’s problems hand in hand Makes better homes within our land
My tribute to all of you mothers apply
Love for my own precious mother stands high. To my mother‐in‐law I now reply It is upon you that I now rely.
For a husband and helpmate so true.
Just where would I be if it weren’t for you. His girls and my girls are your girls too
What wonders happen from a start of two.
So we are all bound with a loving tie, That helps us to understand why It pays to set our standards high And the great golden rule apply.
Our blessings on all motherhood.
Living with and knowing you seems good. This world would be better if all understood The true love that belongs to Motherhood.
Author: Anna Bridge
June
To Father’s Day
Fathers give to your children
As our heavenly father has given to you.
Walk a path that’s straight and true.
Show the young ones what to do
For it’s in your shoes they want to be
So watch how you walk
Others will see…
By: Eva Friend Wood
