I think

we need a summer get together at the pool!! Who's in?

My Grandpa's Garden - Susan Lawrence Bartel

Every summer I spent weeks at a time at my Grandma and Grandpa Lawrence's house in El Dorado. Across the small driveway was a 1/3 acre garden plot that was my Grandpa's pride. I can still feel the freshly tilled brown dirt, warmed by the summer sun, squishing up between my toes on my grubby bare feet. I can hear the hum of the honey bees, busy gathering nectar. I can taste the first ripe strawberry...never have any strawberries been so sweet, so juicy. I can remember lying in between the rows and watching the fluffy, white clouds pass slowly by, creating animals in their shapes. And I can hear my Grandpa's melodic whistle. My Grandpa was known for his whistling...even to the point of being nicknamed Birdie and known throughout Butler County as Birdie Lawrence. He whistled old folk songs, probably tunes he made up, theme songs from the 50's television shows, and hymns. Of all my memories spending time with Grandpa in his garden, the one engraved on my heart and that brings tears to my eyes so easily is Grandpa whistling, "In the Garden". Sometimes he sang it in his rich baritone, softly, while his hoe kept time. And I was quiet and listened and knew that time was exceptional, when spent with my Grandpa, in his garden.

Happy April's fool day. Everyone please wish Matthew a HAPPY BIRTHDAY. Also have a Happy Easter. Uncle John

HAPPY VALENTINES DAY TO ALL!!!! Please take time to wish Hanna, Garrett, and Sarah a HAPPY BIRTHDAY...Well the groundhog says an early spring, but you can't tell it with all the snow. Uncle John

Hello, well the Rawlings Family Christmas was certainly a great time for all, Cindy and I want to thank everyone. Chris got to be home for Christmas, what a great surprise that was. Aunt Gerry has requested that we consider going back to a hotel in Wichita for next years event.
Also please wish a HAPPY BIRTHDAY to Sherry, Eliora, and Max.
Uncle John

,Hello, WOW did Uncle John miss this one. Thank you all for wishing Aunt Cindy
a Happy Birthday on facebook, cuz I didn't get it done here on the blog, HAPPY BIRTHDAY AUNT CINDY. Thank you Sherry for getting Chris's bday wish posted. While I'm here let me get the December bdays posted.
Everyone be sure to wish Miss Rhylee, Jordan and Mr. Victor HAPPY BIRTHDAY.
Uncle John

Tomorrow is Chris' birthday! Honor his birthday by going out and voting!! :)