Vintage Violets

March Event

2011-03-09T16:46:00.001-06:00

The Red Hat Ladies Event this month is scheduled for Tuesday, March 22nd, at 6:30 pm at the Catfish House in Prattville on Cobbs Ferry Road. Please let Faye Toler know if you plan to attend by March 21st. You may call her at 271-3668 or reply back to this email. Hope to see everyone there.

Long time no see!!!

2011-03-03T20:58:00.001-06:00

We do not have an event scheduled until late April, most likely. If anyone wants to plan an Event for March let me know.

Hi Ladies!

2010-12-21T10:30:00.003-06:00

Our Red Hat Event was so much fun last week. We have the best group ever! I hope everyone has a wonderful holiday. Stay safe if you are traveling. We are going to Rebecca's on Christmas Day and to Dianne's on the 26th. What are your Christmas plans? (I am testing to see how many read these emails!)

Hi Ladies!

2010-12-12T15:36:00.003-06:00

I hope to see all of you Tuesday night at Teri's house for our December Event. Here is our 2011 Calendar for the next 3 months so you can be planning in advance:

Jan. 2011 - Nelda

Feb. - Faye

March - Dianne F.

I have the calendar filled out until July 2011. I apparently lost (I blame the computer and the computer operator) Aug-Nov. 2011. I know there were people signed up for those months but I don't have them anymore. I think I had a copy-paste error. I do not know what months LaRose, JoAnn, and Jean signed up for. Judy, Brenda, and Dianne H. have not signed for a month. I will bring the calendar Tuesday night and maybe we can make sense of it.

.

December Event

2010-11-22T09:33:00.002-06:00

Our Red Hat Event for December will be held at the home of Teri Phillips on Tuesday, December 14th at 6:30. Bring a finger food dish and a gift for Dirty Santa. You may wear Christmas attire instead of red and purple if you wish. If you have any questions, reply to this email and Teri will answer.

Our newest RED Hatter!

2010-10-30T21:25:00.002-05:00

Thanks, Wanda, for being a good sport!

July Event Pictures

2010-09-16T12:19:00.004-05:00

September Event

2010-09-13T15:15:00.002-05:00

Our September Queen of the Month is Cherry Wallock. She has planned for us to go to Chappy's at Peppertree on Saturday, September 25 at 9:00 for breakfast. Please reply to this email if you will be there or call her. She needs a number count. Hope to see everyone there!
Sylvia

Red Hat Calendar

2010-07-31T08:48:00.002-05:00

We had a great time last Thursday Night! The food was delicious. Thank you to Rose Mary for hosting and opening her home to us.

This is for everyone who was there: What movie? "That's all I have to say about that."

This is our calendar until the end of this year.
August-Open
September-Cherry
October-Dianne Mills
November-Open
December-Teri

July Event News

2010-07-14T22:05:00.001-05:00

Our July event will be an old-fashioned barbeque at Rosemary's house on July 29th. Stay tuned for the time and address and directions!

Prayer request

2010-06-18T14:43:00.001-05:00

Please pray for LaRose today! She is going to the hospital for emergency dialysis. She is now in renal failure. Will be in the hospital a few days then she will be set up on a 3 day a week schedule at the dialysis clinic. This info came from Monica's facebook page. I have not talked to any of them personally.

June Event!

2010-06-10T16:07:00.002-05:00

June Violet Event: Supper and Scrapbook Work Night
Thursday, June 17th 6:30 p.m.
Dalraida Fellowship Hall

Bring scissors, pictures you may have of Violet events, purple and red scrapbook paper (if you have some), embellishments and your imagination. We will be working on our group's scrapbook, but if you have individual ones to work on, bring them, too.

Bring $5.00 for supper. . .it will be sandwiches, chips, a yummy dessert and drinks.
Contact Diane Lindsey diane.Lindsey@dhr.alabama.gov or Wanda Warmack wlwphd@aol.com for more information.

P.S. From the Queen--It's hot and we aren't going "out" so don't worry about the red and purple this time--unless you want to or you are Faye and you want to dress in reverse for her birthday!

Grandma Test

2010-06-10T15:24:00.001-05:00

Subject: The Grandma Test

I was out walking with my Grandson. He picked up something off of the ground started to put it in his mouth. I took the item away from him and I asked him not to do that.
'Why?' my Grandson asked. "Because it's been on the ground; you don't know where it's been, it's dirty, and probably has germs," I replied. At this point, my Grandson looked at me with total admiration and asked, "Grandma, how do you know all this stuff?? You are so smart." I was thinking quickly and said to him. "All Grandmas know stuff. It's on the Grandma Test. You have to know it, or they don't let you be a Grandma." We walked along in silence for 2 or 3 minutes, but he was evidently pondering this new information. "Oh....I get it!” he beamed, “So if you don't pass the test you have to be the Grandpa. "Exactly," I replied with a big smile on my face.

Heirloom Tea Party

2010-05-26T10:30:00.000-05:00

The Vintage Violets attended an Heirloom Tea Party at Nancy's house Monday night. We had delicious food and enjoyed sharing our special heirlooms. We had 18 Violets in attendance.

How to Clean Linens, Fabrics,etc.

2010-05-26T09:30:00.000-05:00

This is going to be lengthy, because I am going to copy exactly what the article said. It was dated 9/11/1994.
CLEANING, STORING FAMILY HEIRLOOMS NOT HARD TO DO
There's no secret "ancient-Chinese" or otherwise, involved in the cleaning and storing process of the fabrics of cherished heirlooms.
In fact, Ludi Frye says all a person needs is a bar of soap, a cotton sheet, a bath tub, some regular washing detergent, non-chlorine bleach and a little patience.
Mrs. Frye restores and prepares wedding dresses, baptismal gowns, fine linens and just about anything that's made of 100% natural fibers.
"I'm not interested in man-made fibers. If it's polyester, it's really not for me," Mrs. Frye said.
The first step in the cleaning process requires rehydration of the fabric. Fill a tub with warm water and soak until water is dirtied. Drain and add more water as needed. Mrs. Frye said this process could take anywhere from a couple of hours to a couple of months. One-quarter cup of detergent can be added after water is clear. For strong, resilient fabric, Mrs. Frye said she just adds a little washing detergent and lets it sit until the cleaning process is complete. For more delicate fibers, Mrs. Frye uses Ivory liquid (in various amounts) in lieu of heavier detergents. If the item requires bleaching, any oxygenated, non-chlorine bleach will do.
No elbow grease is needed. "If there is a secret, it's in the soaking." For storage of treasured possessions, Mrs. Frye said there are some definite no-no's. No plastic. No wood (unless acid-free.) No paper products (unless acid-free.) No chlorine bleach. And, no mothballs.
Lining a box and wrapping the item in a cotton sheet is all you need for storage purposes. An acid-free box ix preferable, but Mrs. Frye said if the item is enveloped in the cotton sheet, it's secure.
A bar of unwrapped deodorant soap stuffed in a cotton sock and placed between the sheet and box will ward off all bugs.
Mrs. Frye said the box should be stored under a bed or at the top of a closet and checked every two years. She said items should be aired out and the sheet washed or replaced if any yellowing does occur.
"You have to treat these things like you'd treat your skin. Most things need to breathe, and fine fabrics are no different," Mrs. Frye said.

Book Club

2010-05-24T21:17:00.002-05:00

The new book for the University COC is "Crossing Oceans" by Gina Holmes. The next dinner to discuss it will be in August.

Are we born this way?

2010-05-15T11:23:00.000-05:00

2010-05-10T16:02:00.000-05:00

The next Red Hat event will be an Heirloom Tea Party at the home of Nancy Itson on Monday, May 24, 2010 at 6:30 p.m. A light dinner will be provided. All of us have something that we treasure that has been passed down to us, or something that we hope to pass down to someone else. Please bring this to the Heirloom Tea Party to share with your Red Hat sisters. Everyone is also asked to contribute $4 to the cost of the meal. Please RSVP by Friday, May 21 to 868-9507.

April Red Hat Event

2010-04-15T12:36:00.002-05:00

Hi Violets!
The Vintage Violets will convene on Saturday morning, April 24th at Mimi's at East Chase for breakfast at 9:00AM. I will need to know if you are coming. Please call or email me by Wed. the 21st if you can come OR if you can't come.

FQM QQL Sylvia

March/April Event

2010-03-18T16:26:00.002-05:00

It is a little warmer today so it's time for all the Violets to come out from under the Snuggies and have an EVENT! This is what Linda has planned:
"I would like to get 3/30 7:00pm scheduled for dessert at my house, 53 AVENUE OF THE Waters, Pike Road, Al We will have a show and tell. Each RedHatter is asked to bring something to show and tell that she is passionate about, just enjoys doing, or has interest in learning to do. I thought it might help us to get to know each other better."

Please call Linda 300-1627 and let her know if you are coming. We will have a new calendar that night to sign up to plan a month. I think it will go until about November, 2011. If you already know what month you want, let me know and I will sign you up. Remember, if 2 people sign together for the same month, then you must sign up for 2 months. This way the calendar will go longer and it will be a long time for your turn to come around again.
See you on the 30th!

Welcome New Member!

2009-12-12T12:06:00.002-06:00

We are welcoming Rose Mary Buford to the Violets today. This is also a test to see if I successfully added her to our email notification list. Rose Mary, if you receive this, please reply that you did. Polly is on a leave of absence.

We had a great turnout for our Dec. Event! It was a lot of fun.

Our calendar goes through April, 2010. I have Dianne Fletcher listed for January, 2010 and Linda for April. We will start a new list beginning in May. We have Feb. and March open at this time, but Judy is supposed to do one of those and already has a fun idea for it. Would one of you Dalraida ladies tell Judy for me that it is Feb.and March that is open.

Stay warm and dry today!

NOVEMBER EVENT

2009-10-25T15:10:00.002-05:00

Our November Red Hat Event will be on Tuesday, Nov. 10th at 6:30 PM. It will be in the University Church Fellowship Hall. We are to bring "party food" (aka finger food). Cherry is the Queen for the month. She will provide drinks. Wear your red and purple!

October Event CHANGE OF PLANS

2009-10-05T08:14:00.002-05:00

Our Queen for the Month, Jean, is sorry to inform everyone that a change is going to have to be made on the date of our October Event. The date is being changed from the 15th to the 13th. The 13th is on a Tuesday. Everything else remains the same. Still going to Mimi's at 6:30 and still having the "around the house/white elephant swap. She is very sorry to inconvenience anyone, but when it turns out that the Queen for the Month can't come, then a change is in order. Please reply so she will know if you are coming or not.

Our October Event

2009-09-29T09:13:00.003-05:00

Jean has planned for us to go to Mimi's Restaurant on Thursday night, October 15th at 6:30. We are to bring something from around our house for a white elephant swap. Don't buy anything--just bring something no longer needed you would be willing to trade. We did this once before and it was a lot of fun. Let Jean know whether or not you can come.

Red Hat Event Schedule

2009-09-21T07:33:00.002-05:00

Here is our event schedule for the next 3 months and the "Queens for the Month".
October--Jean
November--Cherry
December--Lorraine

Wanda FINALLY got to come home. Continue to pray for her.

Sympathy

2009-08-24T06:53:00.001-05:00

Diane Lindsey's mother passed away last Saturday. The funeral is tomorrow here in Montgomery. Details are in the paper today (Mon.).

Friday news

2009-08-07T21:47:00.000-05:00

From Cindy:
Wanda had a bronchoscopy (sp?) this morning. They went down the vent and looked in her lungs and extracted anything that wasn't supposed to be there (i.e., fluid that was congesting her). She has a touch of pneumonia, but she is resting better and breathing much better after the procedure. She is still on the ventilator, but the doctor hoped to wean her from it (maybe tomorrow?). She has a chest tube that has also been draining fluid from her lungs as well, so maybe the fluid buildup will be gone soon.We did not go up today nor yesterday. We just needed some rest, although Mother and Daddy were chomping at the bit to go.We will all go up tomorrow (Saturday).Some have expressed desire to visit, which would be fine.The visiting hours for the SICU are: 10:30-11; 2:30-3; 5:30-6; and 8:30-9.Please feel free to go by and visit. We aren't always there to visit every time, and there is no limit to the number of people who can go back to visit.Thanks for the continued prayers.

2009-08-05T13:04:00.001-05:00

Another big setback.Wanda's breathing became very laborous on Monday night, and they had to put her on a ventilator around 1:30 a.m. Tuesday morning.She also has more sepsis (blood infection). They are monitoring her blood pressure, heart, and fluids...She is awake/aware of what's going on, but can't talk because of the ventilator. PLEASE keep the prayers heavenward.
www.caringbridge.org/visit/wandawarmack If you go to this website, you can read the updates and sign the guestbook.

Monday Update

2009-08-04T09:17:00.001-05:00

This is from Cindy yesterday.
Wanda has developed a couple of complications that have set her back. First, she had a CT scan this morning and the doctors found an abcess on her liver. They put in a drain today around 2 p.m. and have drained a couple of bags (about 10 oz.) from the abcessed place. The doctors believe this may be one of the reasons for her illness all along.After we left this evening, her breathing became more labored, as she has some fluid around her lungs. They put her back on an oxygen mask instead of the nose canula.Please continue to pray for her, especially with these latest issues. We will probably visit again tomorrow.

Wed. Update on Wanda

2009-07-29T13:55:00.000-05:00

This is what Cindy (Wanda's sister) wrote online yesterday from the hospital....
Wanda is doing MUCH better as of this afternoon. Again, the doctors are optimistic that the stint was the source of the infection. She is still on the dialysis machine, which is pulling fluid buildup from her body. However, her kidneys are producing some output, which is a good sign. The doctor hopes to have her off the dialysis machine tomorrow. When that happens, she may be ready for a room on the floor.THANKS to all who have asked and prayed.I will still keep posting as we know more. Wanda is feeling much better...asking for her cell phone!For those of you who have asked, Mother and Daddy are doing okay. Mother has been walking a little more this week and seems to be getting stronger; the wheelchair has helped walking all over UAB's complex!Daddy is weak from his chemo treatments last week (M-F), but is still chugging along. (For those of you who don't know, he has been diagnosed with MDS, which can develop into acute leukemia. He has been taking treatments for 2 months.)Again, please keep the prayers going for the whole family.

Update

2009-07-28T12:42:00.001-05:00

This is from Wanda's sister Cindy:
On Monday, Wanda had an endoscopy to check the stint in her bile duct for blockage. There was some debris, so the doctor cleaned it out. This is probably the source of her infection. She is looking and feeling some better. The surgeon that initially accepted Wanda at UAB talked with us last evening, and she stated that Wanda would probably be in SICU at least a few more days. They want to get her off the dialysis before putting her in a regular room on the floor.Keep the prayers going!

Pray for Wanda

2009-07-27T16:03:00.000-05:00

I wanted to let everyone know that Wanda needs your prayers. She was airlifted to Birmingham over the weekend. Her kidneys have shut down and she has an infection. Wanda has also lost over 50 pounds. Please pray for Wanda.

REMINDER!!!

2009-07-06T10:51:00.003-05:00

Ladies.

Please remember that TOMORROW is the last day to give Dianne M. your money for "Beehive." She has heard from many of you , but not all, so let her know your plans. If you reply to this, she will get it (and so will everyone else!)

Love,

The Queen

July Event News

2009-06-24T21:05:00.003-05:00

Our Red Hat July event will be July 14th at 7:30. We will be attending the Shakespeare Festival to see "Beehive". You MUST, MUST get your money -$25, to Dianne Mills by July 7th. That is the positively, absolutely last day to purchase with the group. University ladies can give it to Dianne Mills. She will be out of town on the 4th weekend so if you don't see her you can give it to Sylvia. You could also mail it to her. Dalraida ladies can mail their check to her, but it has to be in her hands before the 7th.

June 5 Guys Event!

2009-06-23T22:17:00.005-05:00

The Vintage Violets invaded 5 Guys Burgers at East Chase tonight. As always, we got lots of stares and a few comments. The employees there were Red Hatters too. Their visors said "5 Guys" on them but nonetheless they were still red. We had a big group--I haven't stopped to count. Dianne M. has July, and there will be more info on that in the future.

June Event!

2009-06-09T21:57:00.003-05:00

Nancy has planned a fun, casual evening for us on June 23rd at 6:30P.M. at Five Guys Burgers at East Chase. They serve delicious burgers and fries. They also have hot dogs. Plan on joining us for a great meal. You may wear your casual purple outfits and red hats unless it is your birthday month. Let Nancy know if you can come OR NOT! See you then!
Queen of Quite a Lot

Reminder!!!!!!

2009-04-20T08:24:00.001-05:00

Please remember to let Orie Mae know if you are going Thursday night OR NOT! I hope we have a big turn out this month. We haven't had a big group together in a while! See you Thursday night!

April Red Hat Event

2009-03-31T18:52:00.002-05:00

Orie Mae has planned a wonderful outing for the Violets. We will be going to Mr. G's Restaurant on Thursday Night, April 23rd at 7:00. Write this on your Calendar NOW and call Orie Mae (her computer is down right now) and let her know if you are going OR NOT. It is important to let her know either way. Wear your purple clothes and red hats!!!!!

March Event Reminder

2009-03-23T11:51:00.002-05:00

Ladies,
Don't forget to let Faye know by this Wed. if you are going this Sat. It would be good to let her know if you are NOT going also. Remember, you may take spouses, guests, etc. on this trip.

Grandmother News

2009-03-13T10:35:00.002-05:00

I missed reporting that Dianne H. became a grandmother for the first time on Jan.24th. Julie and her husband Phil have Aiden Wayne and he is a cutie! Lots of black hair.
Then on March 5th, Nelda became a grandmother for the 3rd time. Ainsley Marie was born to her daughter Allison, that lives in Mobile. Nelda is just back from there.

This week, on the 11th, Marley Rose was born to Monica and John Kachelman. Monica is LaRose's daughter and was experiencing blood pressure problems so was induced a few weeks early. Marley is in the NICU at Baptist East with some breathing issues but is expected to recover. Keep them in your prayers!

Red Hat March Event

2009-02-28T20:20:00.002-06:00

The Red Hat Ladies March Event is a trip to Opelika to shop at Angel's Flea Market on Saturday, March 28th. In case you've never been there, it's located just off I-85and Highway 280 in an old Wal-Mart building. There are over 400 dealers and there should be something to interest everyone - "as they say, some people's junk is someone else's treasure." They also have a nice lounge area with coffee and cable TV.
The University church's 35-passenger bus has been reserved that day, and we LEAVE PROMPTLY AT 9:00 a.m. We should arrive around 10:00 a.m. when the store opens and shop until around 12:00 noon. We plan to have lunch at the Cracker Barrel Restaurant around the corner from the Flea Market and then afterwards travel back to Montgomery. Wear your red/purple or pink/lavendar casual clothes and comfortable shoes.
If you would like, you may invite your spouse/relative/friend to come along with you. Just as we did on the Gee's Bend trip last year, we will need everyone to help with the cost of gasoline. Since it will only be 120 miles round trip, it should only cost $2.00-$3.00 per person. PLEASE RSVP BY MARCH 25TH. Call Faye at home or email Dianne at dafmont@aol.com to let us know if you are going or not.

Red Hat Info

2009-02-15T15:04:00.003-06:00

Happy Belated Valentine's Day!
I wanted to let everyone know who the next 3 Queens of the Month will be. March is Faye, April is Orie Mae, and May is Diane L. If you are not one of these 3 ladies and are wondering when your month is, email me and I will look it up. Have a great week!
QofQAL

also

2009-01-15T13:42:00.001-06:00

Chappy's cancellation is from Dianne H. I forgot to sign the note and it looks like it came from Sylvia. Sorry Sylvia.

Saturday Chappy's cancelled

2009-01-15T13:30:00.002-06:00

Due to the very small turn out for the breakfast at Chappy's this Saturday (7 including myself) and due to the frigid temperatures (but mainly due to the 7) I am cancelling this event. Of the menbers I have heard from three will be out of town, one has surgery today, and one is involved in a previously scheduled event, and 2 cannot come because of a recent event in their lives. Possibly we can reschedule this at another time of the year. My apologies to the 6 who were looking forward to Chappy's.

January Event

2009-01-07T17:19:00.002-06:00

Happy New Year's everyone! To get the year started off right we are going to meet for breakfast on Saturday, January 17 at 8:30 AM at the Chappy's Deli in Peppertree Shopping Center on Vaughn Road. Dress will be casual but as always purple clothing and red hats. Hope to see everone that morning. Please RSVP (reply to email) and let me know if I will be expecting you that morning. If you need to call, phone number is home-277-8591 and work-242-5597.

Dianne H.

Ornament Swap

2008-12-06T08:51:00.002-06:00

It was suggested to me that everyone be allowed to bring an ornament or anything of their choice for the Dirty Santa ornament swap. Do whatever works for you.

November and December Info

2008-11-17T15:55:00.002-06:00

There is not going to be a November Event this year. Everyone's schedule seems to have filled up and we are going to move right on to the December Event. It will be held on December 16th at Teri Phillips house at 6:00 P.M. Bring a covered dish and an ornament for a Dirty Santa swap. You may wear holiday attire (sweaters, etc.) with your Red Hats (Santa hats are acceptible in December). If you have any questions please contact Teri.

Blog Excerpt

2008-10-17T08:40:00.003-05:00

This was written by Melissa Lester and was part of a post written for the Blog Around the World Blogspot. It has wonderful thoughts about women's relationships to each other.

It's official. With the lighting of my husband's candles last Friday, the birthday season is officially in full swing for our family of six. From October to April, the confetti, streamers and frosting fly as I plan celebrations for Joe and our four children. With invitations to make, cakes to decorate, favors to craft and games to plan, it's a sometimes dizzying pace. Add in birthday parties for three nephews and a niece during that six-month period, and it seems we are lighting candles for someone nearly every week.

And I love it. I took cake-decorating classes as a newlywed because I remembered fondly my own birthdays growing up. My mother made our cakes, and my sister, brother and I enjoyed choosing our theme each year. I look back on our simple celebrations as some of the happiest days of my life. I knew then that I would want to share that magic with my children.

As mothers, so many of us are the memory makers in the family. I joke often that Joe provides our livelihood, and I provide our "lovelihood." What a privilege it is to bring our families together year after year. Pieced together like a quilt, we hope those tender moments will wrap our loved ones in warm memories even after we're gone.

As I frosted my husband's cake last week, I thought about all the women who create special moments for their families, and my mind drifted to a woman named Tracey. Tracey told me about the friendship that developed with a neighbor whose backyard adjoined hers. The two mothers had gotten to know each other as they met each day for an afternoon walk. Along the way they shared stories about their children, news of the day, and even hurts they had experienced. And step by step, their friendship grew.

Tracey was the birthday party planner in the family, and she joked with her neighbor when her own birthday passed that year with little fanfare. As they walked, she laughed telling her friend how concerned her daughter was that after all the work she had put into her family's celebrations, she didn't even have a birthday cake.

Tracey's eyes filled with tears as she revealed what happened next. "Look Mommy!" her daughter cried a few hours later when she looked out the window. Tracey peered out the window and giggled at the site. There was her neighbor bounding down the hill between their houses -- a huge, fluffy pink birthday cake in her hands.

Isn't that a beautiful image?

As women, so often we are the heart of our families. We provide instruction, kiss boo-boos, mend broken hearts and even plan birthday parties. But who takes care of the care taker?

I believe the natural choice is other women. We can understand each other in a way our husbands and children can't. So we share recipes, money-saving ideas and medical advice. We deliver meals to new mothers and look out for co-workers who are sick. Our own hearts hurt when a friend is grieving, and we take her worries to heart before taking them to the Lord. And we deliver fluffy pink birthday cakes to each other every day.

Those cakes are often presented in the form of sweet words of encouragement, delivered with the gifts of a listening ear and an understanding heart. Times shared wrap the package in happy memories, laughter adds a fluffy bow, and acts of thoughtfulness lovingly sign the card, "Your friend."

A favorite quote about friendship reminds me,

“I think of my women friends as a raft we make with our arms. We are out there in the middle of some great scary body of water, forearm to forearm, hand to elbow, holding tight. Sometimes I am part of the raft, joining up with others to provide safe harbor; other times I need to climb aboard myself, until the storms subside and I can see my way clear to swim to shore. The raft drifts apart when it’s not needed, but never disbands, never forgets.”

So, friends from around the world, climb aboard. I'm so glad you are here. There is room here for everyone, and plenty of cake to go around.

“Two are better than one because they have a good return for their labor. For if either of them falls, the one will lift up his companion. But woe to the one who falls when there is not another to lift him up” (Ecclesiastes 4:9-10).

Our October Event

2008-10-14T22:15:00.002-05:00

Our October event will be held on October 23rd at 6:30 in the fireplace room at University Church of Christ. It will be a Fall Pot Luck Dinner. Bring a favorite fall food dish. We will play games and visit. Wear casual Red Hat dress--PURPLE (or lavender) clothing and RED (or pink) head coverings. Nelda is Queen for the month of October. Any questions can be directed to her. See you then!

Save the dates!!!

2008-09-28T14:13:00.001-05:00

Our October Event will be October 23. Our December Event will be December 15. More info will be coming about both of these. Put it on your calendars and plan around it!

So true!!!

2008-09-11T09:31:00.000-05:00

September Event

2008-09-03T15:56:00.003-05:00

The Vintage Violets will be gathering together on Saturday, September 13th!!! We will be going to breakfast that morning at 8:30 at the Blue Moon Cafe. I am not sure of the address but we went there once before. It is off Taylor Road a few streets behind the Publix store. They serve breakfast at the tables--you do not go through the line like their other meals. Please let me know if you can or can't attend. I need a number count on how many can go. You may email me or call me before Friday, September 12th. See you there!
Love,
The Queen
P.S. Casual Dress but as always in your colors!

Welcome New Member!

2008-08-18T15:52:00.002-05:00

We have a new member in the Vintage Violets! She is Cherry Wallock. All the UCOC members know her and probably some of the DCOC ladies also. She is planning on being with us Thursday night. This brings our group to 20 members so that makes us "closed" for the time being. We have fluctuated around 20 most of the time and that seems to be a good, manageable number. I will see you all Thursday night!

Reminder!!!!!!

2008-08-16T09:11:00.001-05:00

Tomorrow (Sunday the 17th) is the deadline to let LaRose know if you can go next Thursday. Don't be that person who will not RSVP!

Away she goes!

2008-08-11T16:00:00.000-05:00

Look What Linda Did!!!

2008-08-11T15:57:00.000-05:00

A source sent me some pictures today of Linda taking a balloon ride for her birthday!

Our August Event

2008-08-06T20:38:00.002-05:00

The Red Hatters are tentatively scheduled to go to Marchelle's Bistro at 164 E. Main St. in Prattville on Thursday, August 21, at 6:30. We will have their back room. We can meet at the UCOC parking lot and go from there. LaRose needs a # count by Sunday, August 17th. Check your info list for her email and phone # or look in the regular phone book. They live on Green Chase. August birthday babies remember to reverse your colors! If there is any change in this info, I will let you know.

LaRose Update

2008-08-06T20:29:00.002-05:00

LaRose got home from Piedmont yesterday. She had lots of tests (ask her about the 28 vials of blood they took) and even talked to a psychiatrist. She will hear her status in a few weeks.
My shoulder is coming along well. If it weren't for the torture lady at rehab I would be in great shape!
Brenda was able to be at church last Sunday. She will start chemo again on Monday.

Our July Event

2008-07-22T21:01:00.002-05:00

We had 16 Violets present at Ox Yoke tonight. Our newest member, Jean, was there. The Queen did not have her camera so there are no pictures to post. The food was delicious. Thanks goes to JoAnn for planning this one. We passed the calendar and all but 5 of the 19 months were filled. The first month without a planner is this coming September. We have time to get all of the months filled. We will give Brenda a pass for now until she gets her strength back. I will be sending info soon regarding the August Event.

Beautiful Story

2008-07-21T09:17:00.002-05:00

I know I have mentioned to ya'll before to please check out Melissa's blog that is linked on our Violets page. She is a writer that is inspiring to read. The University ladies know her and the Dalraida ladies can get to know her from reading her blog. Please take the time to read her blog TODAY by clicking on the word "Melissa" on the right hand side of the Vintage Violets page and let me know what you think. It is a wonderful story of giving and receiving help when needed. I will see all of you tomorrow night!

Please remember...

2008-07-11T18:16:00.002-05:00

Ladies,
We need to pray for and remember LaRose as she will be going to Piedmont Hospital on August 4th and 5th for tests and evaluation for a kidney transplant. She will hear from them in the fall and if all goes well will be placed on a waiting list at Piedmont and UAB.

Welcome New Member!

2008-06-25T20:47:00.002-05:00

I am very pleased to announce that the Violets have a new flower! Her name is Jean Spiro and I am pretty sure that everyone knows her or knows she is Teri's mom. I will not put her personal info on the blog but will send a separate email with that info in it. Welcome her to our group. I know she will be a good "fit".

2008-06-24T21:57:00.001-05:00

Lorraine is surprised the Queen can't stay awake!

2008-06-24T21:54:00.000-05:00

A Pink Hatted Guest!

June Event!

2008-06-24T21:50:00.002-05:00

The Violets met tonight at Sommer's Place for a wonderful dinner and time of laughing and enjoying being together. We played "Dirty Red Hat's" and everyone went home with interesting gifts.

June Red Hatters Outting

2008-06-13T12:47:00.002-05:00

We will be having dinner at Sommers Place 7972 Vaughn Rd on 6/24 Tuesday at 6:30pm. Sommers is in the Sturbridge Shopping Center. Let me know by Monday 6/23 if you can attend so reservations can be made. Just for fun each member bring one item wrapped for DIRTY RED HATTER. Don't buy something new. Bring an item you are about to yard sale or Goodwill, but still has lots of love left in it. If you are one of those sick women who is so organized that you have nothing that meets this criteria, then borrow something. I'm sure you have lots of friends who can give you something of hers gladly. Wear your RED HAT garb!

Linda (Lady Geranium Begonia of the Country)

(From the queen--I will be sending you Linda's email address and phone #'s out by regular email. I do not want to post it on this blog. Please RSVP to her promptly. Thanks!)

Nancy update

2008-05-22T18:06:00.001-05:00

Nancy's surgery is over and went well. The cyst was much larger than the Dr. had thought. He said it was a life threatening situation because if it had ruptured she could have bled to death.

This just in......

2008-05-22T13:47:00.001-05:00

Nancy Itson is in surgery this afternoon for removal of an ovarian cyst. I will update you when I find out more.

Update on Brenda

2008-04-25T11:12:00.000-05:00

I went to see Brenda Donaldson yesterday and took the basket with all kinds of goodies everyone donated. It really got a smile out of her. She said to tell all thank you!! Keep her in your prayers.

Diane Lindsey

On a Funnier Note.....

2008-04-24T21:50:00.000-05:00

This was lifted from Rebecca's blog:

Out of the mouth of babes
Tonight in Brooks' prayer he said...

"God, help me not to say the word "Booty" anymore."

Time To Pray

2008-04-24T21:44:00.000-05:00

This was lifted from Melissa Lester"s blog:
God's Day
by Melissa Lester
All night long I watched you sleep, snuggled in your bed.
I whispered softly my love for you and stroked your weary head.
I cradled you till the sun came up and you rose to meet the day.
I was eager to hear your waking thoughts, but you didn't take time to pray.
I knew what the day would hold for you -- a new struggle in every task.
I knew that you would need my strength, but you didn't take time to ask.
With arms outstretched I walked with you as you faced a trying day.
I was ready and willing to carry your burdens, but you never glanced my way.
I showered you with blessings, and you accepted them all with glee.
I waited patiently for your thanks, but you had not a word for Me.
The day is coming to a close; the end is drawing near.
I walked beside you all the way, but you forgot that I was here.
You faced your troubles on your own, and now worry fills your head.
How different your day could have been if you had leaned on Me instead.
Tomorrow is a new day, and I will walk with you again.
I hope that you will turn to me -- your Savior, Father, Friend.

Violets: Be careful! Sleep With One Eye Open!!!

2008-04-21T19:18:00.000-05:00

You've heard about people who have been abducted and had their kidneys removed by black- market organ thieves. Well, my thighs were stolen from me during the night a few years ago. I went to sleep and woke up with someone else's thighs. It was just that quick. The replacements had the texture of cooked oatmeal. Whose thighs were these and what happened to mine? I spent the entire summer looking for my thighs. Finally, hurt and angry, I resigned myself to living out my life in jeans. And then the thieves struck again.

My butt was next. I knew it was the same gang, because they took pains to match my new rear-end to the thighs they had stuck me with earlier. But my new butt was attached at least three inches lower than my original! I realized I'd have to give up my jeans in favor of long skirts.

Two years ago I realized my arms had been switched. One morning I was fixing my hair and was horrified to see the flesh of my upper arm swing to and fro with the motion of the hairbrush. This was really getting scary - my body was being replaced one section at a time. What could they do to me next?

When my poor neck suddenly disappeared and was replaced with a turkey neck, I decided to tell my story. Women of the world, wake up and smell the coffee! Those 'plastic' surgeons are using REAL replacement body parts - stolen from you and me! The next time someone you know has something 'lifted', look again - was it lifted from you?

THIS IS NOT A HOAX. This is happening to women everywhere every night.

WARN YOUR FRIENDS!

P.S. Last year I thought some one had stolen my Boobs. I was lying in bed and they were gone! But when I jumped out of bed, I was relieved to see that they had just been hiding in my arm pits as I slept. Now I keep them hidden in my waistband.

Gee's Bend Ferry

2008-04-14T17:20:00.002-05:00

I tried to load all the pictures on just one post but it wouldn't let me. Sorry for all the separate emails.

Lorraine Does Her Thing

2008-04-14T17:18:00.001-05:00

Freedom Quilting Bee

2008-04-14T17:16:00.001-05:00

Trip to Gee's Bend

2008-04-14T17:01:00.003-05:00

99 year old Mariah Irby

There were 22 of us on the University Church bus that departed for Gee's Bend last Saturday morning. There were Violets, husbands and guests. We had a very enjoyable day that was interesting and informative. I got to see an area of Alabama that I had never seen before.

Nelda's knee

2008-04-14T16:54:00.003-05:00

Those of you who went to Gee's Bend know that Nelda stepped down hard off the bus onto her leg that already had a sore knee. It aggravated it to the point of not being able to move it at all without a lot of pain. She did go to Dr. Wells today and he x-rayed it and said she has athritis in that knee. He gave her a cortisone shot in the knee and told her that because of her acid reflux she cannot take anti-inflammatory medicine. So that was the diagnosis and he told her to be very careful on the Pennsylvania bus trip.

Tomorrow's Trip

2008-04-11T08:29:00.002-05:00

A reminder for tomorrow morning: The bus is LEAVING UCOC parking lot at 8:00AM. Be there then or be left behind. Don't forget your lunch and money for gas, ferry and the donation for Dr. Irby's foundation. See you then!!!

Info from Dianne Mills

2008-04-02T22:22:00.003-05:00

We will leave from the University Church parking lot at 8:00 a.m. sharp on April 12 for Gee's Bend. We will need to pay at least $7 per person for gas plus a donation to Aroine Irby's Educational Foundation. I am leaving the amount that one donates up to each individual/couple. Please bring a "sack" lunch. Water will be provided by Charles and Dianne. If we decide to cross the ferry into Camden there is a $2.00 or $3.00 charge per person plus $6 for the bus which includes the driver. I would like for the Vintage Violets to wear their colors - not requiring hats. Dress comfortable. The bus trip takes about 2 hours. Depending on how long we stay we may decide to stop somewhere on the way home for dinner. At this point we have 17 people going.
Note from Sylvia: Dr. Irby volunteered to take us on this tour and he is not charging a set fee but is only asking for a donation to his foundation that sends poor students from Gee's Bend to college. I do not have any idea how much a tour guide would cost per person if we were to hire them for a trip but please be generous in donating if at all possible.

Sympathy

2008-03-25T20:15:00.001-05:00

Our sympathy goes out to Diane and Ronnie Lindsey in the death of Ronnie's mother. I do not know any arrangements but I am sure it will be in the paper.

Our April Event

2008-03-22T21:42:00.002-05:00

Dianne Mills would like to know how many are going to Gee's Bend on April 12th. As you know, this will be open to husbands and any other guests that you think would enjoy it (adults only). We will most likely pack sack lunches. A number count is needed so she can estimate the cost. I am not putting her email address or her phone # in this post. You should have it in your VV info sheet. Let her know if you are going or not so she won't have to call you. Thanks!

Reminder!!!!!!

2008-03-16T20:54:00.002-05:00

Please remember to let Diane L.know if you are going to attend our March Event. It is this Tuesday and let her know by TOMMOROW! Thanks!

OUR MARCH EVENT!!!

2008-03-05T20:54:00.000-06:00

I’m planning for the Red Hat Ladies to go to Miyako Japanese restaurant on March 18,2008 at 6:30 p.m. If you would like to go let me know by March 17th. I thought this would be something we haven’t done before and would be fun. It is located at 8173 Vaughn Road. If you go out Vaughn road you will need to pass Taylor Rd. and it will be in the small shopping center on the left. Japanese Steak House 334-215-2275. Thanks, Diane Lindsey

Sadly.....

2008-03-03T07:57:00.002-06:00

I must announce that Robbie is going Red Hat Inactive. We always offer that option to anyone when they know that their life circumstances leave them with no time to play. Robbie, we will miss you!

SAVE THE DATE!

2008-03-01T22:01:00.002-06:00

Our APRIL Event will be Saturday, April 12th. For those of you who went on the tour of the Capitol, you will remember that Dr. Irby told us that he could take us on a tour of Gee's Bend and that is just what we are going to do. This should be very interesting for everyone and especially to those of us with an interest in quilts. If you don't know about Gee's Bend, you can do a little internet research on it. It is a very isolated community west of Selma and across the Alabama River from Camden. The ferry to Gee's Bend was halted in 1962 in an attempt to keep the citizens from registering to vote. The ferry was resumed in 2006. Many of the ladies there, just like in most rural areas, made quilts for their families for warmth. They used whatever fabric they could find and assembled them in designs pleasing to their eyes. In the 1960's these ladies and their quilts were "discovered" and eventually displayed in museums around the country. We will leave on the morning of the 12th and meet Dr. Irby in Gee's bend and he will lead our tour. All the details have not been finalized yet but will come later. There will be some cost involved as far as a donation to Dr. Irby's foundation, gas, ferry fees, etc. Husbands are welcome at this event and we will also open it to any friends that you think would enjoy this tour. Dianne Mills is planning this Event for us.

Our February Event

2008-02-16T12:39:00.002-06:00

Our February Event was this morning. We were met by our guide, Mr.Aroine Irby, of Gee's Bend, Alabama. What a surprise! He fit right in with our group, dressed in his "birthday month" colors. He was an extremely knowledgeable and interesting guide for our group. He represents our state very capably to visitors and tourists when they visit. Even though our time ran over a little, I was enjoying every minute. The state capitol has been beautifully restored and we can be very proud of it.
We then proceded to UCOC for the delicious brunch that David Fletcher had prepared (and kept warm) for us. Thank you to Faye, Dianne, and David for their planning and executing such an enjoyable event!

"Blogs I Like"

2008-02-12T22:57:00.001-06:00

Check out Melissa's blog (look for her name to the right). She writes beautifully and always has things in her posts to make us think.

"Comments"

2008-02-12T22:28:00.002-06:00

I am disappointed that no one leaves a comment on the posts! I guess I am realizing that no comment is required but I always check the blog to see the comments and so far there are zero! Who wants to be first?

Things to Remember for Saturday

2008-02-12T22:11:00.002-06:00

Tomorrow is the deadline to let Dianne F. or Faye know if you are going Saturday. The tour starts promptly at 9:00 AM so be there a little before that or you may be left behind! This will start at the Union St. (back) of the Capitol so be there in your colors and bring your guest! Please read the previous post for additional details.
See you Saturday. I will be the one in the foot/ankle brace!

FEBRUARY EVENT!!!!!

2008-02-03T13:25:00.000-06:00

Our February event will be a walk back into history as we tour our state Capitol on Saturday, February 16th. The state Capitol has undergone some renovations recently, and after reading an article in the Montgomery Advertiser a few months ago, it sounds like it will be very interesting to see. I'm sure many of you, like myself, have toured the State Capitol in the past, but I think it will be a lot of fun for us as a group (dressed in our red and purple) to tour it again. We invite all the Red Hat Ladies to bring their spouse, friend or a relative to join them for the State Capitol tour and Breakfast/Brunch at the University church building afterwards. Our tour begins promptly at 9:00 a.m., so it will be important that you meet a few minutes early since another tour begins shortly after ours ends. Arrangements have been made for our tour guide to meet us at the back entrance to the Capitol on Union Street to begin our 45 minute tour of the past. There should be plenty of parking available and no meters to feed on Saturday. Some of you may even want to leave one car at the church building and carpool together. After the tour is over everyone will go back to the University church building for a Breakfast/Brunch prepared by David Fletcher. Cost will be $5.00 per person. Please RSVP to Dianne Fletcher by email at dafmont@aol.com or by telephone at 271-4778, or Faye Toler at 271-3668, no later than February 13th, as David will need the total number of people to buy and prepare food for that morning. Hope we have a good turn out since it won't matter if it's cold since this will be an indoor event. See you on the 16th!

Friday, January 25

2008-01-25T12:25:00.000-06:00

Hi Violets!
It doesn't look like we are going to have a January Event. No one had signed up for it and I am not going to plan the months that are not taken. March and July are also open and then we will start over again in September 2008. If you know you signed up for 2008 and don't remember when let me know. Dianne F. and Faye have February.
We usually kinda "regroup" at our January Events. We do not need to collect any dues this year. I had enough left from last year to cover our chapter registration that is due every January. If anyone feels a need to take a leave of absence, let me know. We have 19 ladies in our group right now.
If you have anything newsy to share with the group, let me know and I will post it.

January 8, 2008

2008-01-08T22:30:00.000-06:00

I have not posted anything lately because there was not any news to share. No one signed up to plan an event for January. Dianne H. and I are busy all week with Monster Trucks (!) and making 5 heirloom dresses for the Maskers Ball for the first part of February. I will let everyone know if someone plans an event.

December 26, 2007

2007-12-26T10:54:00.000-06:00

Did everyone have a Merry Christmas? We did here. We had just our family and Larry's mom for Christmas lunch. We were at Dianne's house for Christmas Eve and had a great time and tons of food both times.
Diane Lindsey is having outpatient surgery on her left hand this Thursday. It is to repair damage done by the Rheumatoid arthritis. She will be out of work about 2 weeks. Please remember her in your prayers that this will be successful and she will have more use of that hand.

Merry Christmas Everyone!

2007-12-20T11:30:00.001-06:00

As far as I know, I never had my picture made with Santa. Better late that never!

2007-12-12T16:07:00.000-06:00

What is so funny?

2007-12-12T16:03:00.000-06:00

Whose phone is ringing?

2007-12-12T16:01:00.000-06:00

Linda opens her ornament.

2007-12-12T15:59:00.000-06:00

Diane loves her ornament. Nelda and Dianne are tickled!

2007-12-12T15:55:00.000-06:00

Faye admires her Red Hat Lady for the few minutes she had her!

2007-12-12T15:48:00.000-06:00

Interested observers.