Just Talking: Your Fun and Mine, (Paperback)

Love, laughter, and familiarity abound - the good, the bad, the mischievous, the funny. The author does not try to "sugarcoat" the comedy and not-so-smart actions of anyone whose antics, mistakes, beliefs, or the results thereof, led to the writing of this narrative. These are the memoirs of someone who was a part of it and who likewise enjoyed it all. This mother, grandmother, sister, daughter, aunt, and friend recaptures a series of humorous ups and downs and friendly events that are unique to the individual family and work-place setting. The good sense of humor that is developed in this work is attributed to the wit and "dumb things" generated mostly by other members of the family or friends who don't have a problem laughing at themselves, sharing their mistakes, or any other contribution made to this work. Children, pets and friends are generously included in these pages about life in a large family. This mother recalls her own child being afraid of a new doctor, being convinced by a policeman that he didn't really want to go to jail, and not completely putting his bike back together. Her children's love of swings is remembered and still encouraged by her. The recounted memories create laughter and a pleasant outlook on life.

It is perhaps one of the attributes of youth to believe that anything is possible, and that can be a good quality leading to a more productive life in later years. Some of the children of this family created their own possibilities, including playthings and getting into situations that made parents cringe, yet can be recalled in a humorous setting because it has now passed. However, most parents can and probably will themselves recall their own risky childhood games which may in some ways be similar to those of the author and her siblings and friends during their childhood.

Barnyard and pasture hilarity will be found throughout because that is a place in which humor abounds and is spur-of-the-moment honest-to-goodness unplanned activity. Even a young calf that was born seemingly loco, and never got over it, is included. Household pets create love in the family and help children to develop kindness to animals, which is the reason the family encouraged having many pets, even though they unknowingly created their own chaos and laughter.

Country and farm living is re-created in a setting of good times had by all.

The author includes humor from Brazilians visiting the United States, problems from not understanding the English language, "German Chocolate Candies" eaten by the wrong people, and even feminine hygiene products that were at one time unknown and misunderstood by Brazilian officials.

Not to be missed is the bathroom comedy especially that which includes the event in Vancleave, Mississippi, with the key on the chain attached to a gallon bucket of concrete.

The quips found throughout are the author's own personal yet seemingly accurate opinions.