LIVING ON GRACE...

A Week On A Walker

2012-01-29T18:43:00.000-05:00

I have been home for a week now since my total knee replacement surgery. Home is much better then the hospital. They gave me a choice of going to a rehab facility or coming home with a Physical Therapist coming to my house. I chose to come home. I had a private room in the hospital with a wall of windows looking out on a little courtyard, it also had a beautiful big private bath and every thing was first class. But it wasn't home. It's good to be home.
I've become pretty proficient using my walker, but this morning I forgot to use it and walked to the bathroom without it. Whoa...that was kind of scary! Did you know you cannot carry a cup of coffee while using a walker? Impossible unless you plan on wearing most of it. Actually you can't carry anything at all. My Occupational Therapist tied a trash bag on the walker for carrying things. It's a great look. Now I look like a crippled bag lady. Other then a magazine or a phone, it's useless, but I do like the pitiful way it looks, I bet people would throw money in it if I parked myself near a mall. I look like I have been delt a bad hand in the game of life!
I have been trying not to wear Hal to a frazzle because I may need him in the future. Innatially I had to have him lift my surgical leg into bed, but now I can throw that thing right up there. I still can't cook or serve myself. I can't do laundry and barely keep my thoughts coherent. The biggest strain is he can't leave the house unless someone else is here with me. I can see this slowly erroding his joy. Hey..my joy isn't to great either! Did you know there is a channel on TV that shows nothing but old cowboy movies? Yep, there is and it's playing here around the clock. Talking about erroding your joy!
The hospital sent home a electric cooling device to help with the swelling on my leg. It looks like an ordinary cooler, but you fill it with half ice, half water and plug it it. A long hose is connected to a cooling pad at the other end that is placed on your leg. The icy water then circulates through the pad and you feel like you've been placed in a meat locker and you'll never warm up again. I am dependant on Hal for the operation, placement and removal of this device. Sometimes it sure seems like it stays on for a long time.
I find this entire surgical process amazing and I'm thankful to have the choice to have it done. It's an awesome world out there.

~It is well with my soul

Hopefully..

2012-01-24T14:54:00.002-05:00

Hopefully I will be writing and reading again before too long. I miss you all!
I came home from the hospital yesterday, the surgery went well, so I'm told.
I am in a great deal of pain and reliant on Hal and the girls for help. I'm also feeling the effect of all the drugs I had during my hospital stay, so I'm feeling very out of sorts.
I know as the days pass, I will grow stronger..thank you all for your prayers and well wishes. They meant, and continue to mean the world to me!
Hugs!

~It is well with my soul

3 - 2 - 1!

2012-01-18T11:08:00.000-05:00

My surgery countdown has begun! It's 3 days away! I have stocked the house with groceries, and it now resembles your local supermarket.
Today I will change bed linens, do laundry and give the house a D&C (dusting and cleaning). I even bought a new vacuum yesterday. Yes...the old one was not responding to all attempts to revive it and it was unplugged from the socket for the last time. Sniffle.
My stomach flu seems to have run its course no pun intended, and now is just an ugly memory.
I haven't yet tried to find where my ipod music went, and it is on my mind. I planned on relying on that music to sooth my surgical nerves. I may - or may not try to try to fix that, but not sure, it may be more aggravation that I want to take on. I have to weigh the plus and minus on that project!
The hospital told me to bring a good pair of lace up shoes since they will get me out of bed to walk the day of surgery. Are they crazy?! Don't they realize I will just have had my knee replaced? I do not like "good" lace up shoes. I'm a fancy/no lace type of shoe gal. I guess I need to break out the New Balance shoes I wore (occasionally) while on vacation.
Day 2, tomorrow, I plan on doing nothing, but I will pray. My heart goes out to those on the sunken Italian cruise ship and to their family and friends. What a tragedy, that could have been prevented.
Day 1 - I will be arriving at the hospital at 8am. I will be hungry and thirsty, but hopefully I will feel a calm that only comes from God. Yep - that's what I expect to feel!

~It is well with my soul

PS
i GOT ALL MY TUNES BACK ON MY IPOD!! WHOO HOOO!

Pass The Crackers

2012-01-17T10:18:00.000-05:00

I'm down for the count - 24 hour count that is. I ~~have~~ had the stomach flu and I'm not giving it a minute longer then 24 hours if I can help it.
I was extremely fatigued on Sunday, that should have given me a clue. I mean more fatigued then what is normal, even for me. I went back to bed TWICE during the day! Monday a strange - and ugly feeling washed over me. WHOA....my bad knees moved pretty fast in the direction of the bathroom. 'Nuff said.
I spent yesterday sipping ginger ale, nibbling on crackers and going owww every now and then for emphasis. By the evening my stomach calmed down but I was left with a bad headache. Owwww.
I feel better today, my headache is gone. I'm still going to go lightly in the food department - just in case.
Owww. Sorry, that was just left over.

~It is well with my soul

Sunday Scripture

2012-01-14T22:39:00.000-05:00

Romans 12:21

Do not be overcome with evil, but overcome evil with good.

~It is well with my soul

PREACHER CAKE

2012-01-14T13:46:00.000-05:00

I just made this "Preacher Cake" simple and delicious, and good for a sweet treat after dinner on Sunday!

I added coconut to ours, but as you will see on the recipe, there are many options. I also only used one cup of sugar instead of two.
Click on the link below to give it a try!

PREACHER CAKE Other Breakfast Recipes Just A Pinch Recipe Club

~It is well with my soul

Knee Knesting

2012-01-12T22:30:00.000-05:00

In one week, January 2Oth, I will enter the hospital for my knee replacement surgery. I'm starting to feel like I'm going through that nesting phase one goes through before they deliver a baby, only I'll get to bring home an artificial knee - aww, isn't it precious!
I've been stocking up on groceries, like as if my husband is incapable of grocery shopping. He's not incapable, but it certainly isn't his forte`. I will be sure that all the laundry is caught up since the washer and dryer are in the basement. I'm very particular about my laundry and the reality is - he will have to do it for a while. It will be his clothes that may suffer as I plan on doing a lot of pajama wearing for a while, and if you shrink or discolor pj's it's not a big deal.
I was going to cook and freeze several meals, but he is a very good cook, and what he doesn't cook, the restaurant carry-out will provide.
I ordered some new books for my kindle, and tried to add more songs to my iPod. I say try because when I went to play them I had NO songs. Hmmm, I think I may have missed a step. Now I will have to go back and put them all back on there. Or maybe they are on there and I just can't find them. This is too much pressure.
I bought a safety seat for the bathtub. It shouts AN OLD GEEZER LIVES HERE ! when you open the shower curtain and see it. Hal seems to like to use it, and actually it is kind of comfy, even if it isn't very attractive.
I have laid in a supply of my sparkling tea as I mentioned before. All I will need after the surgery is a supply of pain medication and I should be all set. Knee Knesting Komplete!

~It is well with my soul

A Day At the "W".

2012-01-11T19:44:00.003-05:00

I had to go to Walmart today, the belt broke on my vacuum. This vacuum is starting to be more trouble then it's worth. Maybe Hal was right, I should have just bought a new one! Anywhooo, I tried to dress in neutral colors, do my hair - and make myself invisible. Nothing was hanging out, spilling over or covered in sequins. I don't want to appear on one of the people of Walmart emails. You know, like this gal.

She must be going to ballet after she's finished shopping.

After failing to find a handicap parking space, and circling the parking lot for too long, I went in to look for the vacuum belts. Guess what? They are out of the one that fits my vacuum. Does this mean that my brand of vacuum is bad for belt breakage or Walmart is low on product? Doesn't really matter because I STILL don't have the belt!

So, I might as well get some groceries while I'm in there. They had these Cutie oranges, and I'm very fond of them. Very fond. I like the way they are a cinch to peel, no seed and are sweet! Yum!

They also had my favorite Lipton's sparkling tea which is as scarce as hens teeth. I bought all they had, three cartons. Hey....it's a tough world out there!

I had to have a stock boy help me with them, I couldn't reach them. He was very nice - and I told him so. So, my Walmart day wasn't a total loss. I still can't use my vacuum, but I can sit around eating Cuties and drinking sparkling tea. Not a bad option.

I'm sending Hal out to find a vacuum belt tomorrow.

~It is well with my soul

It's Me Oh Lord

2012-01-09T15:12:00.001-05:00

My post today is a reflection of my daughter Sara's. She and I have, each to our own selves, been doing some heart searching about church. We both seek something that we felt was lacking or maybe something different then status quo. We had become the perfect example of the verse in Ecclesiastes 3:1 To everything there is a season and a time for every purpose under Heaven. It seems it is our season to seek a different place of worship and a different type of worship.
This does not come easily for either of us. I was born into a family strong in the Pentecostal church. I have attended Assembly of God churches forever and my children were raised in one. I still believe it was the finest church my girls could have been raised in, and their lives today reflect that.
We change, life changes, and we sometimes seek something different, if only for a season. This was difficult for me, having known no other denomination, yet my longing soul was pointing in another direction. I love our worship, hands lifted in praise and singing often with tears rolling down our faces. I also love a small church, quiet worship and simple preaching of Gods word. This past Sunday, Sara and I attended a small Methodist Church.
The service was completely different then what I've known. Completely. But, different doesn't mean bad. God's presence was there in the old stained glass chapel. In each note played on the beautiful piano, in the children sitting in the front row before being dismissed to children's church. Praise reports were given of prayers answered, and prayer requests were spoken out loud. There wasn't that wonderful praise and worship music I'm so used to, no hands were lifted, (I just may become the first!) but God was felt just as strongly in the softer sweet strains of "Morning Has Broken".
I don't know if this will become my new church. I will attend again though. When we entered the chapel, the pianist was playing "It's Me, It's Me, It's Me oh Lord, Standing In the Need Of Prayer!".....aren't we all.

~It is well with my soul

Sunday Scripture

2012-01-07T20:08:00.002-05:00

1 John 5:3-4

This is love for God:

To obey his commands.

And his commands are not burdensome, for everyone born of God overcomes the world. This is the victory that has overcomes the world, even our faith.

~It is well with my soul

Smelly Trunk Mystery - Solved!

2012-01-06T12:49:00.000-05:00

I just couldn't take that smelly trunk of mine a minute longer. When I got in the car yesterday I thought I'd toss my cookies!
I opened that foul smelling hole and took out the mat and the padding under the mat and threw them on the driveway. Immediately, my driveway smelled. With my superior intelligence, I knew I was on to something!
I washed all the bare metal inside my trunk, took that tiny spare tire out and washed it, washed the black plastic thing that covered the tire and let it all air out.
The mat and pad, and even the cargo net are about to be super washed with Tide and a generous amount of Clorox. The Laundromat will never know what hit them!
The mystery? I remembered that not that long ago my grandson Mac was sick, and his parents were out of town. Who will feed this sickly 21 year old boy? He requested Chicken Parikash to make him well. (Most) of his food wishes are my command. I not only made him Chicken Paprikash, I made him a pot of homemade soup and took it over to him. I remember both spilled in my trunk. It took a while for it to start smelling, but when it did start...oh my!
I do believe I'm on my way to a nice smelling car once again.
Bottom line? This is all Mac's fault. Next time he's getting a grilled cheese sandwich.

~It is well with my soul

My Empty Journal

2012-01-04T20:26:00.001-05:00

I was just over at Nancy's blog, Created for a Journey. My goodness, she is a good writer! On this post she tells of her journals, you should really stop by and read it, it's that good. I so admire her dedication and follow through.
Now about me. I have tried to journal in the past, really I have. I have never succeeded; lack of discipline being the primary culprit, it just became a burden instead of a pleasure. I even tried it when Oprah first came out with her gratitude journal. I found it was much easier for me just to speak my gratitude. Of course, there is no way to turn back the pages and recall things that made you grateful on a particular day. That is one of the shortcomings of not writing things down.
When my daughter Amy and I went on our vacation I forced myself to write in a journal every day. I was fearful I would forget everything we did and saw, and I knew I'd never make it back to Italy or any of the other places. By the tenth day of an almost two week trip I was barely making an entry. It went from very descriptive to "we ordered room service". Even though the heart desires better, sometimes that's all you get.
So, do you journal? I sincerely hope you do. It's a wonderful thing to do for yourself, and I haven't completely given up. My journals may just have fewer entries.

~It is well with my soul

Smelly Nothings

2012-01-03T19:00:00.001-05:00

So all of a sudden blogger has a new face and I am used to the old face. I'm not familiar with where the edit and delete symbols are and so far I've posted two new blogs with titles only! I don't recall signing up for this new layout, but if given enough time, I should be able to master it. Of course by then, they will introduce a new layout!
It is, pardon the language, stinkin' cold here! When it dips below freezing, so does my dislike of the weather. I had to go out today. I had blood work and a chest xray to take care of before my surgery and of course I had to do it today. I have been EKG'd , Stressed, blood drawn, chest xrayed and a few other things I don't care to mention. The nurse doing my test had a knee replacement a few years ago. I asked how it went. Her reply was...."It was horrible". Thank you for the encouragement!
It was a very lazy dinner night. I made mac and cheese and fish sticks. Both from a box. It was almost like eating in the school cafeteria when I was a child! Fortunately I have a husband who almost never complains on what I feed him, except for a couple of weeks ago. I made meatloaf and orzo with tomatoes and feta cheese. He said it made his mouth go numb. I liked it. Not his mouth going numb, the meal.
Tomorrow the tree comes down. It will be back to usual around here, kind of blech. Have you put all of your Christmas decorations away? I cleaned the living room of decoration, but that was fairly simple. I never know what to put on the front door once the Christmas wreath is gone. It really needs something. Suggestions?
Did I tell you the trunk of my car smelled really bad. If I haven't mentioned it, I apologize, I'm sure that's something you would have been anxious to know. There is nothing in it and all we can figure out is something spilled on the felt mat that covers the floor of the trunk. It smells like rotten cauliflower crawled in there and died. Try to imagine that if you dare. With the temps in the teens last night, I think it killed whatever it was because I didn't smell anything today. You see the fragrance wafted up into the car itself. I had LOTS of air fresheners in there. Made it smell like a combo of fresh linen, Macintosh apples and decaying vegetables. Yum. See why I prefer to stay home?
Enough of this pointless chatter. Did I tell you I'm not going out tomorrow. Now you know everything.

~It is well with my soul

Walking In Low Heels

2012-01-01T20:02:00.000-05:00

It's a brand new year, which usually doesn't change my life in a big way except growing older. This year, I feel a bigger impact. I'm walking into it not in high heels, but low heels. My steps are more secure in low heels and my knees won't hurt as much!
I sense there will be changes this year. My heart is open to them, good or bad. Easy or difficult. If I closed my mind and heart to accepting them, it still wouldn't change anything, so I want to be able to go with the flow. If they are difficult, be sure I will feel the pain, but I will not live in that pain. This is just one of the heart changes I need and will pursue.
I don't make resolutions, they just don't work for me. Instead I have come to a place to seek and find what I should be doing with myself. It may be for the moment or it may be life changing. I just don't want to be held in a box simply because I'm too complacent, or lazy, to get out of it. It could be as simple as a different haircut -oh my- or going somewhere I've never been, or who knows what else! I am a creature of habit and that habit breeds a comfort zone where I dwell. Have I missed something because of staying in that comfort zone? Maybe. Maybe not. I just want options that will let me see.
If I seek these differences in the way I live, I must also seek a new level of tolerance, grace and encouragement for others doing the same. Sounds simple huh? Not really. A person who lives such a structured life as I do, often find great difficulty in being accepting of those who don't live the same way. But, give me a break....I finally see the light!
I have met so many wonderful friends while blogging, and they have been a part of my "eye opening" process. I love the positive blogs, but sometimes we don't feel positive. All that is needed is a word of encouragement. Let's be generous with those kind words that say simply, I'm here.
Happy New year my family and friends. A new year of grace!

~It is well with my soul

Sunday Scripture

2012-01-01T11:49:00.000-05:00

HAPPY NEW YEAR - A YEAR FILLED WITH PROMISE!

~It is well with my soul

Un-Stressed Results -UPDATED!

2011-12-27T19:47:00.002-05:00

First of all, thank you all for your prayers and good thoughts, I appreciate them so much!
I had a very long day at the Cardiologist. My appointment was for 1Oam and I didn't leave until 4 pm!
First I had my Doppler heart test. Nothing to it, except it took quite a while. Even had a nice conversation with the lovely Armenian lady who administered it.
Next I got set up for some sort of heart pictures which required an IV and some sort of radio active injection. Had those pictures which took about forty minutes, then was told to go eat lunch for a couple of hours and come back for the STRESS TEST.
I went over Sara's since she lives nearby and relaxed between my tests. She fed me and sent me on my way when it was time to leave.
When I got back to the office, the Dr. was supposed to be there because they don't do the stress tests without him present. He was late...almost 2 hours, so everyone waiting was pushed back for two hours. It just so happened that all the people waiting in the reception area were so nice! We laughed and solved all the worlds problems and the time just flew by. The nurses said they have never seen their waiting room full of such laughter when the Dr. was running late. It was a God thing. I know it was.
Now it's my turn, and I'll tell you I'm very relaxed by now from two hours of fun with a room full of strangers! I have my choice between the treadmill and injection. I choose the treadmill. I figure if its impossible, then I'll get the injection. My knees hurt just walking into the test room, but I got on that treadmill and ran like a 16 year old with bionic knees! Another God thing! I completed the test without breaking a sweat. I could hardly believe it myself. I ran at a 14% incline at 3.5 mph. That may not sound very impressive, but for me and my bad knees it was a pure miracle. When I got off the treadmill, my old knees were hurting just like before, but no pain at all while on it. I finished up with more dye injected and more pictures and came home.
If the results show something wrong he will call me tonight or tomorrow at the latest. Otherwise with nothing wrong, I will hear from the office in a few days.
Thank you again for all of your love and support!

~It is well with my soul

UPDATE:
The Doctors office just called and said my stress test was A-OK! I'm cleared for take-off...I mean knee surgery!

Blessed and Stressed

2011-12-26T13:57:00.000-05:00

Blessed.
Merry after Christmas greetings to all! Every one was over for a wonderful Christmas celebration yesterday. Our tables groaned with food and so did our bodies! Such abundance and such a day of blessings. Since we have gone to drawing one name for Christmas it has taken such a burden off of shopping - and the pocket book, plus it has increased our fun in giving and receiving. I highly recommend it. Of course if there were little ones in the family they would still get a little something from each person; after all, you're only a kid once! We have been so blessed to have our children and grandchildren with us for every Christmas. I don't take that blessing lightly either, it is a gift.
Today I've done nothing at all except unload the dishwasher from yesterdays festivities. I read a bit, napped for a bit and fretted for a bit.
Stressed.
Tomorrow morning I have to go the the Cardiologist for a stress test. Because of my knees, I can't do it on the treadmill, I have to have the IV injection that increases your heart rate. That's what I'm stressing about. On the treadmill, I can stop. I'm in control. When I have some sort of drug injected into my veins, my control is gone. To add to my uncertainty, I've heard people who have had it tell me how horrible it is. The only person who told me it didn't bother them was Hal. Makes me wonder. Makes me stress.
If I come to mind, it wouldn't bother me one little bit if you feel like saying a prayer for me. I'll be getting it done at 10am EST Tuesday. Oh, on top of this...it takes several hours! I can do this, I can do this, I can do this.......

~It is well with my soul

Merry Christmas!

2011-12-24T17:23:00.000-05:00

We wish you love and peace and the joy that comes from the Father above!

Love,

Pat & Hal

~It is well with my soul

The Old and the New

2011-12-20T19:49:00.000-05:00

My Mother always baked a lot for Christmas. She never seemed tired or overwhelmed by all that she did, or at least she didn't let me know! When I saw the picture above of the hand grinder, it struck a familiar chord in my heart. It's so similar to the one pictured below.

This was my Mothers that she used for as far back as I can remember. When the time came that she no longer did much baking, she gave it to me, and I've used it every year ever since. I'm sure there are more modern and easier methods now, but I still use it, it's full of memories. When my grandsons were small they used to get excited to turn the handle and grind the walnuts. Mac would try his best to out-do his brother - and Jordan gladly let him!

My brand new stove is one modern convenience I'm enjoying. It has a setting to proof your dough. I used it when I made the yeast dough for my Hungarian Kolach.

As you can see, it worked great! It went from the picture above......

to this!

The old and the new...we still need them both.

~It is well with my soul

Mix It Up!

2011-12-19T13:32:00.001-05:00

I want one of these so badly my teeth hurt. I enter every time the Pioneer Woman gives one of these away. Needless to say, I have not won. I covet this fancy painted mixer. OK, to covet is wrong, but I want it really, really bad - said in a high whiny voice for emphasis. After I told Hal last night that once again, I did not win, he told me to just go out and buy one! Apparently he is not aware you can not buy a fancy painted one like this, at least not with the amount that we are willing to spend. But if he were a rich man, ---ya-da-da-da -da-da-dah! (Fiddler on the Roof reference not to be mistaken for Yabadabadoo which of course is a Fred Flintstone reference).
I would not mind this one with it's beautiful cherry design.

Or this one with it's flower motif. Or many others that this talented artist can create.

If you want to see more of these beautiful mixers go to www.un-amore.com.

I did take my husbands suggestion and went out and bought one of these mixers today. Mine is red with no fancy painting, but I'm thrilled to to have it and my teeth no longer ache. When I mentioned to Sara how much I love the fancy painted ones, she offered to fix me up. She said to bring mine over because she could put scratch and sniff stickers on it and paint some designs with nail polish. I declined.

~It is well with my soul

Sunday Scripture

2011-12-17T22:50:00.000-05:00

Matthew 2:1 & 2

After Jesus was born in Bethlehem in Judea, during the time of King Herod, Magi from the east came to Jerusalem and asked,

"Where is the one who has been born king of the Jews? We saw his star in the east and come to worship him."

~It is well with my soul

Ready to Laugh!

2011-12-16T11:20:00.000-05:00

I'm about to leave to meet Amy at the theatre. We're going to watch The Muppets! We feel like laughing and this might just do the trick!

If you promise not to tell any one, I'll let you in on a little secret.

I've always had a bit of a crush on the Swedish Chef!

Have a great day everyone!

~It is well with my soul

Pat's Perfect Shopping Mall

2011-12-14T18:22:00.001-05:00

If I were to design my very own perfect shopping mall, one of the first things I'd do is eliminate all unnecessary stores, like men's clothing and sporting goods stores. It would not be a strip mall, but all under one roof with lockers to store my coat and purchases along the way. It would have many restroom, one in each store and available to the public. It would only have stores that I like. The big anchors on the ends would be Ikea and Home Depot or Lowes with an Orange Julius stand somewhere in the middle of the court.
Imagine if you will........
__________________________________________________________________________
                                             IKEA

JoAnn Fabric and Craft                                        Home Goods
Michael's craft store                                             Macy's Restaurant
Target                                                                TJ Maxx
Tim Horton                                                        Marshall's
Thrift/resale shop                     [Orange Julius       Hobby Lobby
Bed Bath and Beyond                     Stand]             Red Robin
Greek Restaurant                                                Garden Ridge
Benches to sit & check credit balance                     Crate & Barrel
Mexican Restaurant                                              Coffee & Tea Shop
Williams Sonoma                                                      Arhaus (for inspiration)
Woolworth's dime store                                        Benches to sit & catch breath
(with soda fountain)

                                        LOWES OR HOME DEPOT
_________________________________________________________________________
That's all I can think of right at the moment...what would you add or make different? Would you add more clothing and shoe stores? Daycare? Jewelry? Or maybe, you just don't like shopping at all! I really don't either except for things pertaining to my home...and an Orange Julius.

~It is well with my soul

Plenty of Bread, Plenty of Grace

2011-12-13T15:59:00.000-05:00

I ran to Kmart today to pick up a few items, it's fast and although it doesn't carry a lot of items I buy, today was not a big grocery shopping excursion trip so it met my needs.
When the cashier finished my order and the receipt printed up, it also printed up coupon after coupon for free bread.
Immediately, while they were yet printing, I recalled the verse in Psalm 37:25, I was young and now I am old, yet I have never seen the righteous forsaken, or their children begging bread. What a wonderful truth!
When we were young, and broke, we never went hungry. He supplied. Did we get those things which we longed for? No, but our needs were met. Part of that learning process was to tell the difference between want and need. There is such a difference between the two, and the sooner that lesson sinks in, the more content life becomes.
After leaving the store, with that verse still on my mind, I felt as though I was covered with mercy and grace and that cover was like a down filled comforter. It was warm, yet my covering weighed next to nothing. It didn't weigh me down till I wanted to throw it off, but instead made me want to wrap myself in its warmth even more. I felt totally filled with a quiet joy, all from a free bread coupon that brought to mind yet one more of God's unfailing promises.
Quotes from poets and statesment are wonderful to know, writers leave words that stay with us, but NOTHING compares to hiding Gods word in your heart. Nothing.

~It is well with my soul

Positive Negative

2011-12-12T10:51:00.000-05:00

When I thought about writing a post today my mind was on all the negative things around us that I'd like to see fade into the background, not honorable things like war, but little irritations like pants being worn so low the wearer must walk with legs spread apart to hold them up. Ridiculous irritations that when given time to stew over can become big irritations, and make for a generally negative outlook. Phooey on that news.
What changed my mind? After I awoke this morning, I was so comfortable to just stay in my nice warm bed. Such a luxury. My sheets are soft and smell nice. Nothing and no one is demanding my attention. I've already done my time with that, raised two daughters, prayed for and worried about a husband who went to work to fight fires, and prayed with every thing within me when he didn't have a job. I went to work when he retired after being a homemaker for 3O years...phew, that was stressful! We all have dues to pay, and they are usually when we are young and able to fight the daily fight!
So today, I linger a little longer in my nice warm bed. I will sit in front of my Christmas tree -decorated with love by my daughter- with a hot cup of coffee and pray for those who are brought to my mind and heart. I will think on the positive -even the absence of snow so far! My positive may be your negative, as far as the snow goes, sorry about that!
So let those who choose wear their silly looking pants, I've got more important things to think about, things to be thankful for. I'm thankful no one in my family wears their pants like that.

~It is well with my soul

Sunday Scripture

2011-12-11T11:15:00.000-05:00

~It is well with my soul

Cookin' Cookies

2011-12-09T21:16:00.001-05:00

I think I'll bake a batch of cookies on Saturday, a recipe I've never made before. If they don't turn out, I will send them with Hal when he goes to his Sportsman's Club on Monday. Those guys aren't super particular! Give them coffee and something sweet and their happy.
I think I'll make Meemaw's Kitchen Sink Cookies. It's something I saw Paula Deen make, so it should be good...I hope, I hope. Click HERE for the recipe. It just so happens I have all the ingredients, even the puffed rice, and I'd rather eat the cereal in cookie form then in a bowl of milk!
You're supposed to dip them in frosting then in crushed peppermint. I'm leaving the peppermint off because:
A. I don't have any
2. I wouldn't want it on there if I did
Some of the reviews say the dough is hard to handle. If that's the case, this will be a one and only try at making these. Remember my motto...Simplify! That goes for baking too!

PS
I just finished baking these cookies and while the dough is crumbly, it's not that hard to work with and they are delicious. They really don't need icing, but I'm going to ice them anyway, just cuz I want too!

~It is well with my soul

Back From Whence It Came

2011-12-07T13:05:00.000-05:00

Remember that Shark Steam mop I bought? Well I have to take it back to....WALMART....ugh.
It doesn't work, and that makes me very aggravated. Actually the word aggravated is milder then what I'm feeling, but I will use my indoor voice and grown up words to illustrate how I feel.
It won't make steam, which if I'm correct is the reason it's called a steam mop. I've filled the water tank, primed and pumped it, waited, and waited; unplugged it, started all over and still nothing.
If there's anything that bursts my bubble, it's buying a new product, get it home, turn it on...and it doesn't work!
Now the next question is, do I buy another one with the thought that this one may just be faulty? Do I shop for a different brand, is there another brand? Or maybe, and this is just a wild thought...I just don't clean my floors. OK, that last thought was just crazy, or was it?

Crispy Computer

2011-12-05T17:06:00.000-05:00

Hal has one of those little netbook computers for web surfing and emails. He's not a big techno person, but has enjoyed his little computer. Well, it is now fried, bit the dust, dead.
I went to buy him a new one today and got a nice laptop for the price of a netbook. I just love a good deal. The best part of the purchase was learning something new while the sales person was talking to someone else. Yes, I was eavesdropping, but I prefer to call it "wisdom gathering". She said NEVER run your computer while plugged in unless you remove the battery. We ALWAYS run our computers plugged in without removing the battery. This is why we fry them. I'm sure all of you already knew this, but I had no idea, and I'm just glad I found out before I fry a few more. When I came home I immediately took the battery out of my own laptop. If you remove the battery while it's plugged in you are assured of a much longer battery life, and your computer won't get as hot. Why didn't someone tell me this? OK, you probably assumed any one with the skill to turn a computer on already knew this. The sales person said the ultimate use of a batter is 4 hours on, 4 hours removed. I just plan to remove it permanently till someone tells me that is also a problem.
All this new info is exhausting. I'm going to order a pizza for dinner. Bye.

~It is well with my soul

Sunday Scripture

2011-12-03T22:45:00.001-05:00

Photo by Pat Trent - Prayer request wall near home of the Virgin Mary in Ephesus, Turkey

Luke 1:37

For nothing is impossible with God

~It is well with my soul

Cheerful!

2011-12-02T14:27:00.000-05:00

Sara working on the mantle

Just as she said she would, Sara came over yesterday to help decorate for Christmas. Actually she didn't help, she did it all, and then Mac came over to lend a hand. This mother and son went to town! It was such a great day for me, those uglies that were hanging around vanished after my daughter and grandson came! Here's a few pictures of their handy work!

tree, mantle and family room finished!

a few pointsettia on the kitchen shelf

some Christmas pretty on the kitchen table

Mac's here and it's on to the living room!

Sara added Christmas touches all over!

The wreath is hung!

Oh no, Mac's distracted with one of grandpa's instruments! Focus!

It sure was a great day. Sara and Mac vacuumed, dusted, organized, brought lunch, decorated and even hung a picture or two. Oh, and Sara also fixed the vacuum, no need to buy a new one!

I told Mac that I had a hard time sitting back and letting them do all the work. In his 22 year old wisdom he said to me "Grandma, sometime you have to do that so that others can be blessed by giving too". How true that is.

Hung outside next to my front door

Oh No! The garland fell down from the beam overhead. No problem, Hal to the rescue! It's not Christmas if you don't fix a few "faulty" decorations here and there!!

~It is well with my soul

Life Daily

2011-11-30T14:53:00.000-05:00

I went to Walmart yesterday, and glory be...its was fairly empty. And yet, I could not use my new Handicpap parking permit because all the spots were taken. Hmmmmm. Well, it wasn't really empty, but there were no lines at the check out and that's as good as empty in my opinion! I purchased a Shark steam mop. Haven't tried it yet, but it's one more step in my plans of eliminate and simplify. With this I hope to eliminate the bucket needed when I mop, not to mention I can no longer kneel to scrub the floors. I also need a new vacuum because Hal says I do. I don't see a problem with it, but he says it spits whatever it sucks up right back out. That could be a problem. Any vacuum suggestions?
I went to the surgeon this morning concerning a questionable mammogram. All is well, no need for concern! I am also changing to a new facility for the next mammogram. This one has sent the results to the WRONG doctor for two years in a row. Not acceptable.
On the way home from the doctor, I stopped and got a new phone. Mine was passed down from a family member, and it was a hot mess. I bought Smart phone. Ha Ha! It's only as smart as its operator, and I think this operator needs a not so smart phone. If you call me or text me...I'll be trying to figure out how to get back to you.
Tomorrow Sara is coming over and it's Christmas tree trimming and decorating time! I'm so excited!!!
Once it's up and glowing, maybe I'll just take a picture to share!
Have a good day every one!

~It is well with my soul

The Mind Of Me

2011-11-28T12:30:00.000-05:00

Sometimes my mind fights me. I want it to be always anticipating great and happy things, bursting with new ideas, full of creativity with the follow through to see things happen. Lately, my mind has let me down. Or is it my body...or both? Whatever it is, I want it to stop this unwelcome behavior and get back to the way it should be.
Here's an example. I don't want to cook....ever again.
I know that sounds extreme, but at the moment, that's the truth. I can't think of a single thing to make for dinner, I don't want to shop for groceries; lets just shut down the kitchen. I don't want to go out to eat either. I just want each man to fend for himself...lovely.
I also want a baby. Don't fall off your chair, I didn't say I want to have a baby! I miss having baby grandchildren. I don't want your baby or any one elses, although they are darling, I want my own baby grands or great grands. Just being honest here. My grands were born a year and a half apart, so we had two babies then they decided to grow up and then there were no babies. Now that they are men, I'm feeling the need for great grands. BUT...not before God's perfect timing with the mate God has waiting for them.
I don't think I need a vacation to get my happy face, I just came back from one. I don't think a new hair-do or new hobby is going to do it for me. I really think it's "old life crisis" as opposed to mid life crisis. Old life crisis is when you want to see the continuation of your family through babies being born. It's when you no longer need to cook lavish dinners (hint, hint) because the two of you need to knock eating down a notch! It's when new hair do's don't matter because whose going to notice anyway? It's when your usefulness is over... or so it seems.
I see so much of my mother's behavior in myself with what I'm feeling. Simplify, get rid of clutter, become a hermit. Yep, that hermit thing isn't too good.
Lord, you made me in your image, and I don't think I'm reflecting it very well. I'm ready for your make-over.

~It is well with my soul

Sunday Scripture

2011-11-26T22:38:00.001-05:00

Photo by Amy Rennie
St. Paul's Rock - Athens, Greece

Psalms 4:8
I will lie down and sleep in peace, for you alone, O Lord, make me dwell in safety

~It is well with my soul

How Are You Feeling?

2011-11-25T13:21:00.002-05:00

It's the day after Thanksgiving, how are you feeling?

I'm feeling content, slow moving, nostalgic and thankful. I'm not doing any shopping today, but for those of you who are, I wish you great success and stamina!

I took a slice of time today to change the look of my blog from Fall to Winter. Though that sounds simple, it took me way to long. I'm still not happy, and keep looking for something else. Kind of like my house...always looking for that special something that will give it the perfect zing! Oh, I forgot, I said I was feeling content!

Dinner was great, precious family gathered here except for my grandson Mac who had to work. He was very much missed. I just hate it when kids and grands grow up!

I'm eyeing my fall decorations and thinking about putting them away, but that involves a few trips down the basement. So, for now I'm putting them all on the kitchen table where "someone" will have to move them to the basement. While down there, "someone" will then be able to bring up the Christmas decorations! Yay for "someone"! ("someone" may be me!)

Are you eating left-overs tonight? We will be and I'm looking forward to it. If I'm preparing a big meal for the family at my house, I am usually too tired to really enjoy it, so this will almost be like eating it for the first time!

I'm thinking about cleaning my kitchen floor, yesterday a bottle of cranberry soda exploded upon opening and had an amazing trajectory - I think the red, sticky foam hit almost every thing! Poor Amy got it the worst, but then, she was the one who opened it!

Speaking of my younger daughter, Amy - she will be leaving in a few days. She will be going out of state for training and to turn her career path in a new direction after being a nurse for over a decade. God has gone before her in every step and she is excited for this next path He is leading her to take. She will still be in the medical field, but a totally different area. Where He leads...she will follow and be blessed!

Well, I think it may just be time for a piece of pie and a cup of tea! Yep, still feeling that Thanksgiving glow - and a little sticky too!

~It is well with my soul

Above All Things....

2011-11-23T22:40:00.000-05:00

Hal and I wish all of our friends and family a happy Thanksgiving. We are blessed by your friendship and love, and we give Thanks to the Lord for all He provides!

~It is well with my soul

Super Woman - NOT

2011-11-22T13:49:00.002-05:00

I woke up Monday morning after very little sleep. During the night, my knee wasn't happy, no matter where I tried to place it. That set the tone for the day...ugly. I didn't like the path my attitude was taking so I decided to get out of the house and breathe some fresh air. It's amazing how much that can help. I did some Thanksgiving shopping and returned home tired but with a better attitude. It's amazing just how much control we have over our own disposition. After putting some of my groceries away (those that needed refrigeration) I took a nap! Feeling much better by now and on to a better remainder of the day.
I have a prescription for pain from my surgeon which I don't take, thus the sleepless, pain filled night before. I think it's much more noble and shows much greater character if I "tough" it out. Super woman..whose crabby and ugly acting..but with great character and strong will! Geeshhh I wouldn't even want to hang out with me! Last night I became less of a super woman and more of a realist, and I took a pain pill before bed. I slept like a baby! I feel so refreshed today and the uglies are gone!
It's a hard thing for me to turn over control, whether it's to take a pill and let it do it's work, or letting Hal do the laundry. Yikes, I'm still not sure about letting him do the laundry when the time comes. I've mentioned before that since he retired he cleans the kitchen every evening after dinner. I had to stop myself from re-loading the dishwasher after he finished loading it. Instead I've learned to be grateful, even if he does put the dishes in the wrong way! The older you get, it seems the harder it is to loosen your white knuckled fingers off of the control. It feels like a sign that you aren't all you used to be. Funny thing is...you're not! Accept it!!!
Bottom line is we have a choice in so many things every day.
Lord help me to make wise choices.

PS
I changed my profile picture. The one I had up before was 11 years old. I felt it was time to get into the here and now! This one shows my "turkey neck" - suitable for Thanksgiving!! LOL!!

~it is well with my soul

Sunday Scripture

2011-11-19T22:57:00.000-05:00

Psalm 31:19

How great is your goodness, which you have stored up for those who fear you, which you bestow in the sight of men on those who take refuge in you.

~It is well with my soul

If They Were Smart

2011-11-17T20:38:00.000-05:00

I happened to be privileged enough to remember the good old days, and I believe with all my heart that is just what they were. I could list all of the great memories of my childhood and of the era but there is just one I'm thinking of today. The soda fountain!

The dime store, Woolworth's (does any one remember the dime store?) had a great soda fountain and if you behaved while shopping with your Mom, you might get a treat afterward at the fountain!

However...the soda fountain that is dear to me was at the corner drug store. When I was a teenager, that's where the young man who would become my husband worked. It's also where he called me from for our first date. He called from the payphone directely to my home phone. Can you imagine? No cell phones! He was also known to give the neighborhood kids an extra scoop or two on their ice cream cones!

I think it was a big mistake to remove the soda fountains. Just think how you could sit down with a coffee or soda while waiting for your prescription. No, you couldn't pick your prescription from the drive thru window, but somehow we did just fine.

If they were smart, they'd bring them back. Sometimes the simple treats make the best memories.

~It is well with my soul

Knees and Stoves

2011-11-15T12:09:00.000-05:00

I went to the Orthopedist and Sears yesterday. I ordered a new stove and a new knee. Here's the stove.

Here's a set of knees.

My new stove should look just like the picture - my knees, not so much. My stove comes tomorrow at which time they will also haul away the old, sad, broken stove. My new one has a convection/regular roasting oven option. I didn't get the double oven, because of my lack of storage space, I need that bottom drawer. I do have a second range in the basement in case I need a second oven, which I've only used a couple of times in many, many years. I'm excited to try the convection version. I went with the electric for the ease of cleaning. Remember? It's all about making life easier! This one has 5 burners, something else that's new for me. All I can say is, Thanks Hal for breaking the old stove!
Now, as for my knees. They both qualify for a replacement. After the x-ray he said they have deteriorated significantly in the last six months. Like my daughter Amy said, I blame it on touring the Vatican. That place would cause healthy knees to crumble! He asked me how on earth I managed all my touring. My answer? Ice, tears and prayer.
I decided on only replacing one for now. The left is bad, but not quite as bad and when he stressed how much more the impact would be on me having them both done at once, I felt my decision was the right one for me. I will be having it done on January 20th, two days before my 45th anniversary. I imagine I'll be a real cupcake on our anniversary. Poor Hal! I will be in the hospital for about 4 days. When I'm released, a physical therapist will come to my home until I'm able to leave the house. I'm well aware that this will be no walk in the park, and truth be told, I'm not looking forward to it. However, I am looking forward to recovering to a better quality of life.
That's all the news that is news around here! I have to go and remove that things from my oven drawer now!

~It is well with my soul

What Was That Crash?

2011-11-13T23:08:00.001-05:00

The other night I was on the phone in the family room when I heard that one of a kind sound in the kitchen...glass breaking. I didn't really give it much pause, a cup or plate broken isn't worth worrying about. The person who broke it, that would be Hal, would also clean it up. I continued on with my conversation, while the TV yammered on in the background.
When I got off the phone and went into the kitchen, Hal said to me, in a very calm Hal kind of way..."You're going to need to shop for a new stove".

When the man's right, he's really right.
The microwave is above the stove and the heavy glass turn-table came out with whatever he was warming, and crashed through the top of the stove. Other then having to go look for a new one, I'm not upset. The stove was very old, it's replacement was due...this just made the process sooner and less convenient. I'm doing a lot of online comparison shopping because I can't tolerate the walking right now. I have it narrowed down to a couple, I will look at them in the store and buy one. Thank goodness for the Internet!
So, for now, this is what my stove looks like. Hal is gone hunting and I'm eating a lot of sandwiches and cereal! Oh, I'm also using the microwave!
Should I get gas or electric?

~It is well with my soul

Sunday Scripture

2011-11-13T11:22:00.000-05:00

Matthew 6:24

No one can serve two masters. Either he will hate one and love the other, or he will be devoted to one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money.

~It is well with my soul

Speaking of Houses....

2011-11-10T18:45:00.001-05:00

While I'm on the subject of my house..and complaining, I wish I had a different style home. I'm not really complaining, just sharing thoughts with you. That's allowed, right?
When we bought this home I loved that it had an upstairs, and I still like the way it feels to sleep on the second floor, my knees just don't agree! Fortunately there are also bedrooms downstairs. Now, I would love to own a ranch style home, or rambler as they are called in some areas.

I'd like every thing on one floor including the laundry! Boy if that doesn't shout "old age" I don't know what does! You don't think about these things until your in a situation where climbing even one step is painful.

Even though I don't like stairs, I must have a basement so we can fill it up with junk just like a hoarder. Hal said to me a few minutes ago...after hunting season...because nothing, I mean NOTHING interferes with hunting season, he needs to work on the basement. I keep telling him, it's all his stuff, not mine. That's the truth as I see it.

OK, so I want a ranch style home, it should have a big sun room, a fireplace or two, first floor laundry, nice kitchen with a butlers pantry. Not for a butler, but to hold my crock pots, big roasting pans, etc. Three bathrooms, one for Hal, one for me, and one for the heck of it. Lots of low windows with views of meadows and woods and maybe a stream would be nice, with mountains in the distance and little woodland animals scampering by. Of course...it has to have a circular driveway. That really goes without mentioning.

Oh, I would have distressed wide plank hardwood floors - or carpeting, I'm not sure.

A girl can dream, can't she?

~It is well with my soul

Either This or That.. But Not Both

2011-11-09T19:58:00.000-05:00

Some time ago, I thought I would make my housework a bit easier if we removed the carpeting from the family room. It was past time, so up it came. I have an oak parquet floor under the carpet and in some neighborhoods, that is still considered hip and happening. Not this neighborhood, but I'm sure there is one somewhere. I convinced myself that I would be a trend setter and everyone would be running out to get the same floor! Amazing what a desperate mind can do.

This hip and happening floor is not in the greatest shape, and it's cold and hard. The only good thing I can say is it doesn't stain when things are spilled on it and you couldn't tell if it did from all the other scratch, dented and worn spots.

I ordered a very large area rug that covers all but about 3 feet all around. This was a well thought out purchase because this size area rug does not come cheap. Now that I've lived with this area rug/bare wood floor combo for a while....I can't stand it! I have doubled my work instead of lessening it.

Before I just had to vacuum. Now I have to vacuum the rug in the middle and dust mop the wood floor around the perimeter. Other wise these little creatures hop around, only they are made of dust.
In a never ending quest to lighten my work load, I usually increase it. I think I want to go back to wall to wall carpeting. This is the room that gets the most use and dust, although if they other rooms could talk they'd probably argue with that. It also needs to feel the warmest. I've got myself all talked into it, but I feel guilty about not being able to use this big and beautiful area rug. There's no where to put it except our upstairs bedroom, and we don't go up there any more, and I think it's bigger then our entire cabin up north! Did I mention that it also weighs just under a million pounds?
The only solution I can come up with is....I have to move.

~It is well with my soul

Not Invited

2011-11-06T21:59:00.000-05:00

Arthritis is an uninvited and unwelcome house crasher. The home it has crashed is my body. I wish I could evict this nuisance. I know I'm not alone in having this invader change my life. Some have been taken over much more then I have, and my heart goes out to them.

When I took my once in a life time trip to Italy, Turkey and Greece, my knees were in bad shape, but all that walking on those stone streets, up and down hills and steps, finished me! If there was any cartilage in my knee joints before I left, it is now gone; and bone against bone is not pleasant! Would I do it again in this shape? Absolutely, like it said, it was once in a lifetime.

But...life has changed for me. I say owwww much more often now! I also grimace and complain...I'm such a joy to live with.

I try to think of good things, happy things...and if I don't have to walk I usually succeed! It's amazing that through pain, there is still a lot of beauty and joy. It's all around us, and a few ohhhs, and owwws, doesn't diminish it. Sometimes I think it helps to make me see it more clearly. Maybe a tiny bit of pain wouldn't hurt a lot of us. I'm just speaking from experience here, LOL!

I have a doctor appointment on Nov. 14 to discuss replacing my knee joint(s). Boy..I'm sure not looking forward to that, but to keep walking, I must walk on in faith! Where would we be without faith? I don't even want to know, and glad I don't have to.

~It is well with my soul

Sunday Scripture

2011-11-05T22:54:00.000-04:00

1 Timothy 6: 6-8

But godliness with contentment is great gain.

For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it.

But if we have food and clothing, we will be content with that.

~It is well with my soul

Snippets

2011-11-01T20:11:00.000-04:00

I wish I had something interesting and informative to post about...but I don't. So, I'm just going to give you little snippets of my happenings. Don't fall asleep!

It's November - and all of a sudden I can't get warm. It's like turning a page on the calender lowered my internal thermostat.

Had my annual mammogram today. No comment.

Reading a great book titled "Saving Cee Cee Honeycut".
I downloaded a sample on my Kindle and started reading it while on my cruise. It was so good, I had to buy the book. Like every book I read I think it should become a movie, and I've already cast the characters. You may think I'm going to tell you about it, but I'm not...go get it, you'll like it.

Tried a new recipe I saw on one of Hals Outdoors programs today. It's lasagna without the noodles. Crazy huh? They used cabbage instead of lasagna noodles and it was actually very good. It also made us feel less guilty when we ate garlic bread with it.

Did I tell you I got a new windshield on my car because of a truck throwing a stone and cracking it? Now my windshield wipers won't work properly. They swish WAAAYYY over to the left and get caught on the window frame. It would be funny except it's not.

My older grandson, Jay emailed me today concerned we haven't drawn names for Christmas yet. He is now a man and has put away foolish things. He also is a new homeowner and needs to keep his finances in order. Good for him.

I think this is enough to sufficiently put us all to sleep.

~It is well with my soul

Never Say, "I Can't See How...."

2011-10-30T20:48:00.000-04:00

I belong to a group of Christian women whose blog is called "The Scarf Sisters". (See link on sidebar). We met though reading each others blogs...even saying that sounds unreal to me. Over the last few years we've grown very close and last year decided it was time for a 1st reunion! Those of us who were able to go, met in Coeur D'Alene, Idaho, home of our founding Scarf Sister.Though only four of us were able to meet, we knew it had to be repeated, there was just to much joy of the Lord to not repeat the reunion! We discussed where and when it would be. I said I'd love to have it, but I will just be returning from Europe and knew it would be too much for me to organize after being home just a couple of days. I said...I can't see how...blah, blah, blah.
I stuck to my word until just months before the reunion this year. Through a sweet Scarf Sister in New York, the Lord impressed upon my heart to host it. I didn't give it a second thought-till I got off the plane! I just kept thinking..Lord this reunion is all yours, so I let everything else go that might hinder it and give it all to you. My house was a mess from Hals painting and remodeling, yikes! Whatever bit of cartlidge in had in my knees was now gone from walking so much on vacation and I was (am) in a lot of pain. Lord...this is yours. I truly had to give it over to Him.
Two days after I returned, I had 9 ladies at my house, ready to go up to my LITTLE cottage. I really didn't have to do a thing. Margie bought, prepared and served ALL the food. She is just amazing - we ate REALLY WELL! Julie prepared a craft and we all made facinators, just in case we're invited to a royal wedding!
We sang, we ate, we worshiped. We talked, walked and giggled. We cried, we slept, we rested in the Lord. We were renewed.

Communion prepared by Margie...no juice or wine, but grapes! I will never forget this comunion.

I will never say "I can't see how" again! Not unless I want to experience another wonderful time with God's presence! Saying that seemed to open the door! You know, Psalm 34:8 "taste and see that the Lord is good; blessed is the man who takes refuge in him".

Scarf Sisters out to dinner at the Lewiston Lodge

A small portion of food prepared by Margie at the cottage. This is just a late night snack!

Cathy reading from Scarf Sister Bible which has made it's way to all of our homes, we have read it and blogged about it and highlighted our favorite scriptures.

The Scarf Sisters in their Facinators!
I can't wait until next years reunion!!!

~It is well with my soul

Hands

2011-10-28T18:20:00.001-04:00

HERE'S A GOOD WAY TO LOOK AT YOUR HANDS. (MALE OR FEMALE) NEVER QUITE THOUGHT OF IT THIS WAY BEFORE

JUST LOOK AT THE PICTURE A GOOD WHILE, AND THEN READ THE REST. IT WILL TOUCH YOU.

Five Generations of Women

GRANDMA'S HANDS (A "must read" )

Grandma, some ninety plus years, sat feebly on the patio bench.. She didn't move, just sat with her head down staring at her hands.

When I sat down beside her she didn't acknowledge my presence and the longer I sat I wondered if she was OK.

Finally, not really wanting to disturb her but wanting to check on her at the same time, I asked her if she was OK. She raised her head and looked at me and smiled. 'Yes, I'm fine, thank you for asking,' she said in a clear voice strong.

'I didn't mean to disturb you, grandma, but you were just sitting here staring at your hands and I wanted to make sure you were OK,' I explained to her.

'Have you ever looked at your hands,' she asked. 'I mean really looked at your hands?'

I slowly opened my hands and stared down at them. I turned them over, palms up and then palms down. No, I guess I had never really looked at my hands as I tried to figure out the point she was making.

Grandma smiled and related this story:

'Stop and think for a moment about the hands you have, how they have served you well throughout your years. These hands, though wrinkled shriveled and weak have been the tools I have used all my life to reach out and grab and embrace life.

'They braced and caught my fall when as a toddler I crashed upon the floor.

They put food in my mouth and clothes on my back. As a child, my mother taught me to fold them in prayer. They tied my shoes and pulled on my boots. They held my husband and wiped my tears when he went off to war.

'They have been dirty, scraped and raw, swollen and bent. They were uneasy and clumsy when I tried to hold my newborn son. Decorated with my wedding band they showed the world that I was married and loved someone special.

They wrote my letters to him and trembled and shook when I buried my parents and spouse.

'They have held my children and grandchildren, consoled neighbors, and shook in fists of anger when I didn't understand.

They have covered my face, combed my hair, and washed and cleansed the rest of my body. They have been sticky and wet, bent and broken, dried and raw. And to this day when not much of anything else of me works real well these hands hold me up, lay me down, and again continue to fold in prayer.

'These hands are the mark of where I've been and the ruggedness of life.

But more importantly it will be these hands that God will reach out and take when he leads me home. And with my hands He will lift me to His side and there I will use these hands to touch the face of God.

I will never look at my hands the same again. But I remember God reached out and took my grandma's hands and led her home. When my hands are hurt or sore or when I stroke the face of my children and husband I think of grandma. I know she has been stroked and caressed and held by the hands of God.

I, too, want to touch the face of God and feel His hands upon my face.

(I received this in an email from my cousin and thought it should be shared. Thank you Karen.)

~It is well with my soul

No Place Like Home

2011-10-26T22:09:00.001-04:00

My vacation was beyond on wildest dreams or desires. It was exhausting, and even sometimes painful when my knees just couldn't take one more step. It was a wonderful chance to reunite and share a vacation with my brother and sister in law, and spend precious time with my daughter. It was inspiring, funny and lovely. It's all deep in my heart where I can draw on it on a rainy Michigan day.
My vacation also makes my home looks even more dear to me. Many years ago, an acquaintance told us he never wants to move to a bigger home or another nicer area. Of course in our youthful naivety we thought this to be a very odd statement. He continued to say he loved the familiarity of his home and it's surroundings. He favorite grocery and drug store were near by as were his doctor and friends. He knew which restaurants were good and those that were not. I repeat, we thought him silly. Who would't want a bigger home or nicer area? I sure did.
Well, thirty years later I'm still here and it suits me perfectly. I too find great solice in the familiar. All of those beautiful places I visited were not familiar, there were a one time treat and like I said...I'm so thankful for that opportunity. I'm not one bit disappointed to be home. This is where my family lives, this is where the girl who works in the pharmacy at the local Walgreens knows my name. This is where my husband was a fireman for 25 years. This is also where our children went to school, and later brought home the men they would marry. This....is Home Sweet Home.

I had to throw this one last picture in from our cruise. It was the last Formal dinner night and for the first time ever - and the last time ever - I wore false eyelashes. Here's the kicker....you can't even tell! More proof, I'm just a home town gal!
~It is well with my soul

Time To Cruise

2011-10-25T17:21:00.000-04:00

It's time to say a sad good-bye to Rome and join our cruise ship in the port of Civitavecchia -say that three times fast (Civitavecchia, Civitavecchia, Civitavecchia). I could never say it correctly while there, but now that I'm home, I think I've got it!

I love the way they turned down our beds each night with a chocolate on our pillow. The best part was the way they made our night clothes have a tiny waist!

Bob hoping for a Godfather re-make

Our first port of call was Messina Sicily. We took a tour up to Taormina where the film "The Godfather" was made. My brother got in character just in case they need him for the next Godfather film.

Taormina is so beautiful, with views of the mountains and sea. One incredible view was over-looking Isola Bella, a beautiful island with a resort and amazing beaches. A cable car from the island takes you to the center of Taormina for shopping. How convenient.

Over looking Isola Bella. Can you tell I'm a tourist? What gave it away, the WHITE skin?!

We strolled the beautiful streets of Taormina

Look at those beautiful lemons growing on someones balcony!

Amy had a taste for one more gelato - then it's back to the ship to rest up for the next day!

~It is well with my soul

Gelato Anyone?

2011-10-24T09:08:00.001-04:00

The first day in Rome, we toured the Vatican. So glad I did, but I've never, ever been so tired in my life! It is so big, with SO MANY stairs! My picture of it won't load, just take my word for it. A must see while in Rome, but be prepared, you will be more tired afterward then you've ever felt before! Wear good shoes. I didn't.

I really needed a gelato after that, but was too tired to bother. The next day we made up for it though!

I wanted to sample gelato when I went to Italy....I had plenty of opportunity! These pictures are from one shop and it's only a portion of the flavors! Too many choices!!

Amy and I at top of Spanish Steps

Of course we had to walk off that gelato, so we went to the Spanish Steps. Our guide delivered us to the very top where we enjoyed the view...then we had to walk down...over two hundred steps! I can feel myself starting to fall apart at this point.

Bottom of Spanish steps

By now, both knees are wrapped, but there's no stopping us. We still have a Twilight tour coming!

Trevi Fountain

As you can see on my face, exhaustion is setting in and I don't want to get up from the Trevi Fountain. Amy's feeling fine....ain't youth grand?

Dinner near the Pantheon

We had a wonderful dinner outside at a charming eatery on the street near the Pantheon, then strolled down to go inside the Pantheon. This was one of my favorite spots in Rome. The street was alive in the moonlight with Bistro's and Restaurants, people strolling, entertainment, and just all those beautiful things you hear about Rome.

Pantheon

Truly a special moment for me.

Colosseum

Of course no trip to Rome would be complete without seeing the Colosseum. At night it's especially spectacular.

This trip was a once in a lifetime experience that I never dreamed would come true. I had the pleasure of sharing it my daughter Amy, and my brother and his wife. I only wished my entire family could have been with me. I actually took over 900 pictures! Lucky for you, I can't share them all! After Rome we boarded our cruise ship and started yet another adventure that took us to more of Italy, Greece and Turkey. If your still with me, I will share a few of those pictures too! Actually, I'll probably share them if your with me or not...I enjoy looking at them!

Amy throws a coin in the Trevi fountain....hoping to return again.

~It is well with my soul

Sunday Scripture

2011-10-23T09:48:00.000-04:00

Romans 8:15, 16

“For you did not receive a spirit that makes you a slave again to fear, but you received the Spirit of sonship.

And by him we cry, “Abba, Father.” The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God’s children.”

Here - There, and Back Again

2011-10-17T19:13:00.000-04:00

Amy and I in Mykonos, Greece

I haven't been home since Sept 27, and I'm so glad to be home again. I have had a wonderful adventure from Italy, Turkey, and Greece and back home and right up to Northern Michigan. I wouldn't undo a minute of it, but I have to admit, I am worn out and very tired. My knees suffered greatly while traipsing though the Mediterranean, and now the next thing on my agenda is to schedule knee replacement. I guess I'll get my rest then!

I have a heart full of memories of things seen and done. I also have a camera full of pictures that need to be labeled and organized.

After returning from my trip to the Med., my Scarf Sister family flew in, drove in and got here by all modes of transportation. We then went to Northern Michigan to my little cabin for a sisterhood retreat. That retreat was so awesome, it could fill several blogs, and probably will. It was filled with worship, fellowship, FOOD, laughter, tears, and quite a bit of down right silliness! We even made our own Facinators...not to be outdone by Princess Beatrice and the rest of those Royals!

Pictures will surely follow, but first I need to rest a bit. It's good to be home.

Our Cottage and site of Scarf Sister Retreat

~It is well with my soul

Countdown Begins!

2011-09-25T21:42:00.000-04:00

I'm trying to close this

So I can get on this

and go to these places

No fear, I'll get it closed! Taking off Tuesday so I'll catch you when I can!

~It is well with my soul

Sunday Scripture

2011-09-24T22:34:00.000-04:00

1 John 1:8

If we claim to be without sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us.

~It is well with my soul

Doctors Report

2011-09-23T11:15:00.000-04:00

Just a quick note to let you know I saw the specialist yesterday, and as I expected...
EVERYTHING IS FINE!
Since I'm taking a long flight I had blood work done to check for markers that would put me in danger of a blood clot. One of the tests came back elevated, which when I looked it up was not a bad thing. But my doctor had such urgency that I need to see a specialist before I leave, I of course agreed to it.
Seems there is nothing wrong when this test to be elevated and anything can cause it, including eating before having the blood drawn. It's only when the results are BELOW the normal range that there should be concern.
I just find it odd that I can go on Google and find out exactly what the specialist told me, so whey didn't my primary care doctor also know that?!
Maybe I'll go into medicine - with the help of Google!

~It is well with my soul

...It Continues

2011-09-21T22:42:00.000-04:00

"It" being the mess around here. I find it hard to believe it will all be gone before I leave the country next Tuesday. If it's not, well there's not a thing I can do about it, and sweet Hal will be here to carry on~and I trust he will.
On the positive side, I LOVE the color paint I bought for the bathroom. It's kind of a grayish beige, or grayeige as I prefer to call it. Buying the right paint color is very tricky. I know, I have a new gallon of paint I bought for the bedroom that was the wrong color. BUT..the one I bought to replace it is perfect. I know they sell little samples of paint for a couple of dollars, I think I may just buy one next time I paint, I think it might be money well spent.
When I was reading about my upcoming trip and how to prepare, the booklet said that one of the most important things to do was to come rested. Don't plan big events you have to carry out before you leave home. HA HA! Now tell me, who takes any kind of vacation without tons of things on their to-do list before they leave. Maybe the rich and famous, but not me.
I have a Dr. appointment tomorrow, totally unplanned by me. My primary care doctor saw something in my blood work that she felt needed looking into so she made an appointment for me with a Hematologist. Seriously, I find it a bother and nothing that couldn't wait till I return. I appreciate good care, but from everything I've read about this mystery finding, it's nothing to worry about....and I'm busy! When I'm finished with my appointment I fully expect a good report.
On another note....I'm so thankful to hear Hal snoring while he's relaxing in his recliner. Really. It's a sweet sound. He's been working hard and he's tired. He's "watching" TV. I love our evenings, we relax, take turns snoring and share one more precious day together. Every day is a blessing.

~It is well with my soul

Coffee , Medicine Cabinets & Faith (and a cookie wouldn't hurt either)

2011-09-19T12:43:00.000-04:00

It's time for a break. I've been working all morning in preparation for my trip as well as household chores. I'm going to stop, have a cup of coffee and relax for a moment. I wish I had some homemade cookies (hint, hint Sara) to go with that coffee. I guess I'll have a granola bar, but it's no homemade cookie!
Hal finished painting the bedroom, but all of his "stuff" is still in the living room. He keeps telling me to relax, it will all be put away, but I'm wondering how since he gave away his large dresser, oh,... and he also threw away the ceiling fan. The bare bulb hanging from the ceiling is very rustic. This is where faith comes in in guess. He also decided to be extra sweet to me and freshen up the bathroom by stripping the wall paper and painting. I REALLY do appreciate the thought, but now I have two rooms torn apart and company coming as soon as I get home from my trip! Faith. Gotta have it. Once again he promises me it will all be finished and everything will be great. He's never let me down, so I need to chill. Did I mention the medicine cabinet is now in the living room too? I really could use those cookies, even store bought!
I must have that little seed of faith within me that the Bible speaks of because I'm joking, but I'm really semi-calm inside. His ways are not our ways, and Hal's timing is not my timing. Sometimes I feeling like Kate Gosslin screaming,"why doesn't everyone have my sense of urgency!". Clearly, if you've seen her TV show before it ended, you'd know that's not a good thing to scream or a good way to think! See, there are lesson to learn even from reality TV!
OK, my mind has wandered all of the place here from TV to homemade cookies. I will try to gather my thoughts, finish my coffee and get back to work.
Have a great day everyone!!!

~It is well with my soul

Sunday Scripture

2011-09-17T22:55:00.000-04:00

Proverbs 28:13

He who conceals his sin does not prosper, but whoever confesses and renounces them finds mercy.

~It is well with my soul

Mr. Coffee At My Door

2011-09-13T23:04:00.000-04:00

Whoo, hooo! My new replacement coffee maker came today! The box it came in is twice as large as needed!

When my almost new coffee maker died on me I wrote to Mr. Coffee telling them about it. I really didn't expect a reply, but they emailed me and said they'd be sending a brand new one.

I guess we'll put away Hals camping coffee pot. It's been a true and faithful friend.

No more "cowboy coffee" as Hal calls it, we're back to the fancy pot...I hope it doesn't quit on me! The coffee in this old peculator tasted really good, and HOT! Brewed coffee is seldom that hot. It was good, and I'm glad we had it, but I'm also glad to have my nice big modern coffee maker. OK, the truth is, I'm glad to have coffee no matter how it's made!

~it is well with my soul

A New Page

2011-09-12T09:55:00.001-04:00

When I woke up this morning I was thinking, today is a new page in my life. I've already written and read yesterday's news, it's time to flip the page. What an opportunity it is to flip the page. We worked on different projects this weekend, so I'm ready to move on to a new chapter, one that reads of a lighter work day!

My calendar is very full right now, preparing for my vacation, and preparing for my sister/girlfriend reunion that will take place at our cottage just a few days after I return. I admit, I have felt overwhelmed. My husband has quietly been helping me where he can, and I appreciate it so much. His urgency and time table may be different then mine, but that's where I need to look beyond myself and accept his goodness. I tend to get things done and organized waaaay ahead of time, and he's more of a last minute type of guy, LOL! We compliment each other although at times, it sure feels like stress instead of complimenting! I'm urging him to hurry up, and he's telling me to relax!

My dinner is already made for tonight (Hungarian Goulash), so I'm going to take a casual approach to the day, run some errands and try to take a page out of Hal's book of relaxation. Every one needs to read a new book now and then.

By the way, the wreath in the picture is made from old book pages! If you're interested in the directions, click here.www.livingwithlindsay.com

NOTE: I just noticed the link didn't take me to the tutorial on the wreath, but if you look to the right on her side bar, you will see the wreath, just click on that and it will take you there. I'm to lazy to redo the whole link thingy!

~It is well with my soul

9/11

2011-09-10T22:44:00.000-04:00

Proverbs 71:14

But as for me, I will always have hope; I will praise you more and more.

~It is well with my soul

I'm Still Here

2011-09-08T16:19:00.001-04:00

I haven't fallen off the face of the earth, it's just been a very busy week!
Lots of business to take care of, then to correct the part the business people did wrong!
Went to the doctor, forgot to fast for blood work, had to go back the next day after fasting to have my blood work done. Got a phone call this morning that the gal who drew my blood put it in the wrong color tube and I have to go back tomorrow and have it drawn - again! Geeeezzzz.
Hal's prescriptions (and the are a lot!) somehow got out of sync and he ran out before it was time to see the doctor and get new ones. They are all mail order so this caused them to do an emergency refill at the local pharmacy plus submit the mail order. Guess who got to straighten all this out? Yep, you're right.
Trying to do some things I need to do for my trip. I went to the bank to get my currency changed and the bank computer had a hiccup in the middle of the transaction. We didn't know if it went through or not. Later I got a call that it did go through. Seems to be a lot of "hiccups" in my dealings this week!
I did finish with my sewing project. That's one thing to cross off my list. I feel like I can slow the treadmill that has been my life this week down one notch.
So it's been several days of mistakes and irritations. But all in all, it's just the way things sometime go. I've made so many mistakes in my life, who am I to get all ugly when someone else also makes a mistake. You just have to keep pushing forward!
I haven't been able to comment on your posts, but I'm trying to get around to at least read them...I miss you all when I lose contact!
Here's hoping for a bit of quiet and peace for the remainder of the week!

~It is well with my soul

Sunday Scripture

2011-09-04T09:52:00.000-04:00

Proverbs 3:11-12

My son, do not despise the Lord's discipline and do not resent his rebuke, because the Lord disciplines those he loves, as a father the son he delights in.

~It is well with my soul

Creativity Gone Bad

2011-09-03T13:58:00.000-04:00

Why do I have this unstoppable desire to sew and be creative when it brings me such frustration?
Do I have a hidden need to punish myself? I'm beginning to think so. I love/hate to sew. I love that when I make something it's born out of some sort of creativity, and it's usually not found in stores. When I'm finished it usually costs me more then what I could have found in a store.
When I sew, first I make oodles of mistakes. Then I figure it out. I just wonder if it's worth all the frustration.
Right now I have a headache. I'm shoving all the fabric aside and eating a grilled cheese.
A grilled cheese never frustrated any one.

~It is well with my soul

Bella

2011-08-31T16:18:00.000-04:00

A child offering a flower. That's how I met Bella. She lives next door to me in her grandma's house. One of many grown children and grandchildren that come and go. Because there is so much activity over there, and most of it annoying (not pretty, but the truth) I've never gotten to know any of them very well. One thing that remains constant, the grandchildren are always innocent, trying to feel at home and fit in.
Blond haired Bella is different, even in her looks. The others are all dark haired and look a lot alike. Blue eyed Bella stands out. She also knows how to entertain herself, not bothering a soul.
One day when I returned from shopping, she picked two flowers from her Grandma's yard and ran over to give me one. My heart turned to mush at that moment. In a very loud and all knowing voice, she said to me, "now what are we going to do with these flowers"? I said we're going to wear them in our hair and look beautiful! We both stuck them in our hair and she walked away very happy.
Now if she catches me as I'm leaving she'll say (very loudly) hey....where ya goin'? and when I come back she says (very loudly) hey, where ya been?
From that day on, every time Bella is outside, and I'm outside, she yells to me.."I know you, I gave you a flower"! And the I yell back, "Yes you did and it made us beautiful"!
The name Bella means beautiful. The name suits her perfectly.

~It is well with my soul

You, Me and Capri

2011-08-29T10:15:00.000-04:00

I watched Giada DeLaurentiis on the Cooking network the other day. I wanted to see it because she was in Capri. I'm going to Capri. We are so alike!

She likes to eat, I like to eat. For some reason, it doesn't make her fat. There we differ.

She shops for Capri's - on Capri. I shop for Capri's - at Target. Almost the same!

She has this cute little swimsuit cover up. I wish I had this swimsuit cover up. I wonder if they make it in Women's sizes?
Someow, I'm feeling less and less like I'm going to blend into the crowd on Capri. Nah...I'll blend in with the toursist, just not the rich and famous, and I think I can afford one of those yummy looking desserts Giada is eating. I hope I can.
I wonder if Walmart has a knock-off of that swimsuit cover up?

~It is well with my soul

Sunday Scripture

2011-08-28T09:25:00.000-04:00

Proverbs 4:18

The path of the righteous is like the first gleam of dawn, shining ever brighter till the full light of day.

~It is well with my soul

Jeweler - NOT

2011-08-24T15:27:00.000-04:00

I went to Jo-Ann Fabric and Craft yesterday to browse some fabric and some home dec goodies. I did get a faux Mercury glass vase clearanced for $5! Yipee! I also had a pair of earrings that needed a new hook and I knew that Jo-Ann's carried jewelry making supplies.
I've never browsed the section that carries the Jewelry supplies until yesterday. Big mistake. I was lost in all the glitter and glam of what you could make.

I never once even considered that you might need some talent or know what you are doing. You just buy this, add that, wrap a wire around it and a dab of glue... and VOILA`!...you have a personally designed piece of jewelry that others would pay you make!
I wanted so badly to stock up with all the tools, some pretty stones and gems and start my jewelry making career!
It didn't matter that I rarely wear jewelry any more, and when I do it's usually some old stand-by I've had forever. All I could see was creativity flowing and satisfaction growing!
I managed to leave with only the earring hooks I needed. I was too overwhelmed to buy anything else. I fixed my earring, am quite satisfied and have decided not to become the Jeweler to the rich and famous. They'll have to make their own jewelry.

~it is well with my soul

Traffic Cones and Electrical Wires

2011-08-22T15:31:00.000-04:00

I had an appointment today on the other side of town. Generally, it's not a bad drive, and the further I go, the prettier the scenery becomes. It was a beautiful sunny morning, I left with no worries, actually looking forward to the 45 minute trip.
Then....traffic cone and construction tie-ups. Left lane closed, right lane closed, go from three lanes down to one lane. My beautiful morning drive was becoming less beautiful with each mile. As I turned off the main thoroughfare, and out of the traffic snares, I began to exhale and relax again. THEN....an electrical wire broke from the pole and fell next to my car. My shoulders are once again up to my ears! The wire immediately caught on fire, but thankfully, it didn't touch my car and I kept driving with a death grip on my steering wheel! Someone must have called emergency as soon as it went down because the fire truck was coming before I was even able to pull over and call for help.
My drive home was much less eventful, but it brought to my attention how life is full of construction we have to swerve around. Do we lose concentration, or over react and have an accident? It's just like over correcting your steering which can cause a car to flip over, I've over corrected some situations in life, but thankfully not flipping my car!
There is so much road rage, and after today's little drive I can see why, but I certainly don't condone it. Out of control tempers over situations that are part of life. Well, maybe not live wires dropping, but other things for sure! I think the world is spinning a little too fast, causing to much stress resulting in impatience and anger. The question is, how do we fix it, or at the very least, how do we deal with it?

~It is well with my soul.

Sunday Scripture

2011-08-20T22:43:00.000-04:00

Daniel 3:25

Lo, I see four men loose, walking in the midst of the fire, and they have no hurt; and the form of the fourth is like the Son of God.

~It is well with my soul

Sleeping Bear Dunes, Michigan Voted Good Morning America's 'Most Beautiful Place' - ABC News

2011-08-17T18:57:00.001-04:00

Just in case you missed Good Morning America today....Sleeping Bear Dunes was voted most beautiful place in America! As a Michigander, I can tell you it is awesome!

America is so jam packed with beauty, it would be hard for me to vote, what a beautiful country we have!

Click on the link below and play the video, it will give you just a sample of why Michigan's Motto says,

"If you seek a pleasant peninsula, look about about you".

Sleeping Bear Dunes, Michigan Voted Good Morning America's 'Most Beautiful Place' - ABC News

~It is well with my soul

What We Did On Sunday

2011-08-16T21:40:00.000-04:00

As I've written before, we were up at the cottage last week. On our last night there, the old recliner decided it would recline no more. Actually it did recline, it just refused to go in the upright position again. It's out lived the life of an average recliner by quite a few years, it had to be over 25 years old. It belonged to my Dad first, and when we bought the cottage 11 years ago my Mom no longer wanted it so we took it, and were very glad to have it. Amazingly, the fabric still looked good and it did not show any worn spots. I give my parents full credit for that, they always took such good care of every thing they owned.
My cousins are going up to the cottage in less then a week, and in October about a dozen of my sister/girlfriends and I are getting together up there... and now there is no recliner. That just wouldn't do. I went out Saturday and bought a new one. Hal picked it up Sunday and back up we went. And back home we came. An 8 hour drive in one day. But now there is a recliner once again at the cottage, it's the best seat in the house!
On a different subject, I took this picture with my phone. It's a dead tree on the property up there that a Woodpecker has completely enjoyed! Those holes it made are so symetrical, nature once again amazes me!

~It is well with my soul

The Reproductive Life of Styrofoam (Sex life sounded sleazy

2011-08-15T11:31:00.001-04:00

OK, maybe they don't have a sex life, but I do believe they have some evil form of reproduction.
We had a small table and chairs delivered last week - by the way, is nothing delivered all assembled any more?- and it was packed in Styrofoam. Days later, I am still cleaning up little Styrofoam babies, given up for aggravation by their mutant Styrofoam parents.
I had to sweep them from the rug before I could vacuum them. The vacuum just seemed to make them angry and they would swirl around like some sort of foamy whirling dirvish.
After sweeping them off the rug and picking up what appeared to be most of them, I was able to run the vacuum over them. I do believe they are now clinging to the inside of my vacuum refusing to leave the dirt chamber.
All of this mayhem went on in my family room which has leather furniture. Just to give you a heads up here, Stryofoam loves leather. It clings to it like a stain on a new shirt.
Well, I think I got the little terrors all into the trash can. OH NO....I found a couple in the bedroom! They must have hitched a ride on the bottom of my slippers! Lock your doors everyone...they may show up at your house. Don't say I didn't warn you!

~It is well with my soul

Home Again

2011-08-12T19:45:00.000-04:00

We were at our cottage last week. We don't get up there as often as we would like to. It seems like appointments of one kind or another get in the way. That's life, we take it as it comes.
We pulled into the drive way and the little cottage looked as tired and worn as it's owners. When you have two homes to take care of, and they are 2OO miles apart, one of them doesn't get as much attention, and of course it's the cottage. This means several days of catching up, cleaning up and then maybe resting up.
When we got out of the truck to go inside this bird nest was on the lamp next to the door.

No baby birdies, but isn't that the most beautiful blue?! I also find the nest amazing, it must have taken a lot of work.

There are two of these lights on each side of the door, you can barely see a bit of the other one on the top left. The nest was sitting on the right one, but bits of twig was intricately strewn over the door from one light to the other. You couldn't even open the door without taking it down. There was also a big pile of twigs at the bottom of the door which must have been rejects! This was the first clean up!

The inside was nice and clean, and amazingly it hardly gets dusty at all. I had a bit of cleaning to do, but nothing major inside. I'm very thankful!

Meanwhile, Hal got the riding lawnmower out and mowed and mowed...the fire pit is under all that overgrowth somewhere! He did take some time off and went for a ride on his ATV. All work and no play makes.....us crabby!

~It is well with my soul

A Little Get Away

2011-08-04T16:38:00.000-04:00

The porch swing on our little Northern Michigan cottage is beckoning us to leave the internet at home and come relax. Sounds like a good idea!
Be back in a little while!

~It is well with my soul

Sharing

2011-08-01T21:47:00.000-04:00

We had a nice visit tonight from my cousin Tom and his wife Trish. Tom is an amazing gardener and their yard has won an award from the city for it's beauty. I've admired a particular flowering vine they have growing against their house, and tonight they brought over a part of that plant to grow in my yard.

It's called a Passion Flower or Passion vine. I thought it was so unusual, then when I heard the story behind it, I loved it even more. Here's what it represents, taken from Wikipedia:

"The "Passion" in "passion flower" refers to the passion of Jesus in Christian theology. In the 15th and 16th centuries, Spanish Christian missionaries adopted the unique physical structures of this plant, particularly the numbers of its various flower parts, as symbols of the last days of Jesus and especially his crucifixion:

Blue Passion Flower (P. caerulea) showing most elements of the Christian symbolism. The pointed tips of the leaves were taken to represent the Holy Lance.

The tendrils represent the whips used in the flagellation of Christ.

The ten petals and sepals represent the ten faithful apostles (excluding St. Peter the denier and Judas Iscariot the betrayer).

The flower's radial filaments, which can number more than a hundred and vary from flower to flower, represent the crown of thorns.

The chalice-shaped ovary with its receptacle represents a hammer or the Holy Grail

The 3 stigmas represent the 3 nails and the 5 anthers below them the 5 wounds (four by the nails and one by the lance).

The blue and white colors of many species' flowers represent Heaven and Purity."

An act of love and sharing continues to grown, just like this beautiful flower.

~It is well with my soul

SNAKE ON A CAR

2011-08-01T09:52:00.000-04:00

How would you like to take a family trip to see the in-laws and find this on your windshield?
It happened to this young Tennessee family.
Unknown to them, the snake was resting on their car engine, and when they were on the road it decided to make itself known!

Sunday Scripture

2011-07-30T22:49:00.000-04:00

1 Timothy 6:17

Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment.

~It is well with my soul

A Donkey or Two

2011-07-28T13:06:00.000-04:00

tourist in Greece riding a donkey to the Acropolis

We are starting to kick our vacation plans to Italy, Greece and Turkey into full gear. We're looking at and booking tours, choosing which ones we need a guide for and those we will go on our own. I just bought a new suitcase, and a big sun hat, am comparing Euros to US currency (not good), and contemplating which bank to rob to pay for this entire thing! It's overwhelming.

In the midst of all this I'm thinking to myself, how am I, 64 years old with two bad knees - and the rest of me isn't so great either - going to do this!?! At first I scoffed at the idea of riding a donkey in Rhodes up to see the Acropolis. Since it's almost 900 steps to get there, I figured I'd stay at the bottom and take pictures of my daughter Amy on her way up. She wants to "experience" it. You know what? I'm seriously thinking of experiencing it myself, if the donkey agrees. One look at me and he may just go on strike.

My brother and his wife are coming with Amy and I. When talking about the tours, etc., he said he just hopes they can keep up. Keep up? I'm more worried about them running ahead of me. I need to mark the bathrooms and rest areas on the maps of every where we go.

Have I mentioned the flight? Total time is 15 hours. Have I mentioned that I'm also claustrophobic? This metal tube I'll be sitting in, in my teeny tiny seat is enough to make me scream MAMA!

What am I going to do? I've decided not to worry over what I've not confronted. I've got my Kindle and Ipod loaded, my daughter by my side and plan on taking something to make me sleep like a baby! I'm beyond myself with joy over this opportunity. It's my dream trip that I thought would never happen.

Just like Amy...I'm going to experience it all that I can.

OPA!!

~it is well with my soul

Stop and Smell The Flowers

2011-07-26T15:44:00.002-04:00

I've not been doing as much blogging or visiting as usual. While I do miss reading what my favorite people are up to, I've felt a bit of Internet over-load. I've been spending a lot of time online researching for my trip in Sept., and after doing that, I just want to unplug. It's been extremely hot here, but I still find refuge in my little yard and garden. So, since I have no great bit of blogging to share at the moment, I thought I would bring you with me on a little walk around the yard to smell the flowers.

This was my birthday gift from Trish and Tom, who made this double-decker planter. I love how talented my cousin is!

Morning Glory

I don't remember what these are, but my metal bird came from the World Longest Yard sale we went on last year, a great memory for me.

Stained glass hummingbird

Pretty in pink

These were supposed to attract butterflies, but no luck so far.

Watch out for the squirrels!

pink and white phlox

softly bubbling fountain.

My great big wind chimes....such a pretty sound.

I love these summer days. Flip flops, BBQ, flowers and garden fresh fruit and vegetables. I'll be in and out, writing and checking on all of you, but if you want to enjoy the fresh air, I wouldn't blame you one little bit!

~It is well with my soul

Sunday Scripture

2011-07-24T09:34:00.000-04:00

Psalm 93:4

Mightier then the thunder of the great waters, mightier then the breakers of the sea - the Lord on high is mighty.

~It is well with my soul

Finding Amy

2011-07-23T10:40:00.000-04:00

Finding Amy Ahonen

I've copied this from Sara's blog today. This need is more important than anything else I could post. Please pray.

Amy has been missing for two weeks from the Denver, Colorado area with no leads as to her whereabouts. All that is certain is that she did not disappear willingly. Her jeep was found on the side of a road unlocked with her purse, cell phone and keys under the seat. You can visit the Amy's search web site at www.FindAmy.org Facebook search for Amy Ahonen. If you would consider copying her picture and information to your blogs and facebook pages that would be a great blessing as someone somewhere surely knows something, and the more exposure Amy's story has the better.
I hope you will join me as we pray for Amy's return and for her family as they go through this unimaginable heartache. Thank you

Salad Any One?

2011-07-20T14:43:00.000-04:00

I seem to have a bumper crop of lettuce growing this year. It's a good thing we eat a salad every night! When I first planted it, I was pretty sure they weren't going to do much, but I was sure wrong!

Since is been as hot as the in the tropics here lately, I have a feeling I could almost grow bananas! Heat advisories every day and the temperatures have been staying in the 90's. I can't even imagine what my electric bill will be, the air conditioner never turns off. Maybe it's a good thing my lettuce is growing so well, it's all I'll be able to afford to eat once my bill comes!

~It is well with my soul

Yikes! Whack!!!

2011-07-18T09:49:00.000-04:00

This was in my bathtub this morning, and believe me, it gave my heart a jump start! It's a house centipede. I should say it's now a dead house centipede. A couple of well placed whacks and a hand full of tissue and it had a swirling water burial. Bye bye.
These creepies are supposed to be beneficial because they feed on spiders and insects. Can't they do it somewhere else?
You can use sticky traps to try to get rid of them, but guess what? They usually don't work. They just break off the stuck legs and go on about their business, which I guess is to give me a heart attack.
That's my day so far!

~It is well with my soul

sunday Scripture

2011-07-16T23:15:00.000-04:00

Psalm 103: 11-12

For as high as the heavens are above the earth, so great is his love for those who fear him; as far as the east is from the west, so far has he removed our transgressions from us.

~It is well with my soul

Color Me Undecided

2011-07-14T12:17:00.001-04:00

I'm getting ready to re-paint a bedroom. I've had the quilt for quite a while, it just seemed like to big of a task to tackle till my knee was repaired and healed. Now I'm ready to go, except I can't seem to decided on a color. Boy, I'd forgotten how long I can agonize over paint samples. We're not a couple that repaints that often, and less often the older we get, so it has to be right, if there is such a thing. This is the quilt, it's main colors are red, don't want a red room, white, don't want a white room, black, nope - not a black room and kind of a taupey color. That's what I'm trying to find...the right taupey color.

These are the paint samples I brought home yesterday.

I've narrowed it down to these -

Yep, not very narrow. I'm throwing out those with a pink, green or yellow tone. So what will that leave? Probably nothing and I'll have to start all over. This process takes longer then actually painting the room!

By the way, do you think this blog background is too busy?

~It is well with my soul

Are You Ready To Downsize?

2011-07-11T15:21:00.000-04:00

A short time ago, I saw a post over on Julia's blog, Hooked On Houses. I was fascinated by this husband, wife and 13 year old son who decided it was time to stop struggling with the mortgage on their 2,000 Sq. ft. home. They sold it and paid $15,000 to have a new home constructed. The new home is a whopping 320 Sq. feet!
They are now mortgage free and their focus has changed on what they really need in life. Take a look at this video...could you do this?

~It is well with my soul

Sunday Scripture

2011-07-10T10:00:00.000-04:00

Colossians 2:6-7

So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live in him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness.

Pastrami Thoughts

2011-07-08T15:51:00.001-04:00

This week I've been going over daughter my Sara's house to water her plants while they are on vacation. The first day I went was after a Dr.s appointment whose office happens to be in her town. My appointment was around 10 am but I didn't get in and out of there until almost 11:30. I was so hungry when I left! I didn't want the run of the mill fast food, nor did I want to eat in a restaurant. THEN....I remembered a great little deli near her house. This place is just a tiny diner with a few stools along the window and a couple of small tables. Mati's Deli - perfection!

I got there before the lunch crowd,which was good because this place does a great business. I ordered my all time favorite, pastrami on rye. It's was soooo good, and they throw in a wonderful kosher dill on the side.

It makes my mouth water just thinking about it. I took it over to Sara's, sat on her shady deck and savored my sandwich. It was so much better then sitting in a noisey restaurant or eating McDonalds.

Great pastrami sandwiches are hard to find around here, but this one is as good as the ones I've eaten in California at The Hat, and that's saying a mouthful!

Those sandwiches at The Hat are so dripping good, my brother and sister in law once got there when they opened, bought some, put them in a cooler and flew with them from California to Michigan for us to enjoy. I think my Mother ate so much she got sick from them!

As I'm writing this, I'm thinking about the laughter at that moment in time. Maybe it wasn't just a convenient accident I stopped for a pastrami sandwich.

~It is well with my soul

Eyes Un-Crossed

2011-07-06T18:13:00.001-04:00

I’ve had these drapery panels for quite a while, they are for our cottage in Northern Michigan. The old ones are just plain white and I never intended to leave them up there as long as they’ve been, but I just never found what I wanted till now. Also being thrifty minded, (cheap) if I did find what I wanted, I didn’t want to pay that much.

I found these at JC Penney at a great sale price. They are to cover two 6 foot patio doors so I needed one large curtain for each of the patio doors. I had to buy three panels for each window and sew them together. That’s six panels. That’s 154”W X 84”L. That’s times 2.

That’s a lot of plaid. I quite after my first attempt which I blogged about earlier. I went cross-eyed trying to line up the continuous pattern. It was time to walk away.

I decided it was probably time to get back on the project and finish it for a couple of reasons. I want the old ones thrown away. Company’s coming, and most importantly THEY ARE NOT GOING TO BEAT ME!

Well, I had the TV on in the background, Good Morning America was on with Beyoncé singing..if you like it then you should have put a ring on it…. the next thing you know Beyoncé and are are singing a duet. Ohohoh…… Time to turn the TV off.

Back to the plaid. Once again it was giving me a hard time. Finally, I threw all six panels on the bed, laid across them and PRAYED! Just a simple plaid prayer. Dear Lord, Open my mind as well as my eyes to do this! Feeling new inner peace, I went to my sewing machine and finished them! OK, they aren’t perfect but not bad. My eyes are now un-crossed.

~It is well with my soul

It’s Not In The Bag

2011-07-04T22:53:00.000-04:00

We don’t go away for the July 4th weekend, we stay at home, have a BBQ and life goes on pretty much as usual. This year was no exception.
I needed to run to the store for a couple of things…like something for dinner…and took a stroll around to see if I was missing any holiday sales. I picked up a maxi dress for my vacation and a little shrug to go with it. I also found a great pair of earrings to complete the outfit. Notice my shopping is all in one store, hot dogs, dresses and bleach. I’ve lost the desire to seek out the “perfect” store for the “perfect” outfit. This store met my requirements. What they had fit. It was 50% off.
This cruising of the aisles started to take its toll on my freshly surgically repaired knee, it was hurting, and I was anxious to go home. There was no one in the check out lanes, I was first up! I rang out, and started pushing my cart toward the door. I looked at my receipt again because the total didn’t sound right. It wasn’t. The clerk didn’t charge me for the dress or shrug. I turned the cart around and limped back to have her ring them up. She thanked me many times.
When I got home to put every thing away, I wanted to look at my earrings with the dress. THEY ARE NOT IN THE BAG!!! I paid for them, but they are not there. DRAT! Now I have to go back and get them. Drat and bah humbug.
A good deed never goes unpunished….or something like that.

~It is well with my soul

July 4th!

2011-07-03T21:08:00.000-04:00

Sunday Scripture

2011-07-03T09:12:00.000-04:00

Matthew 7: 13-14

Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow is the road that leads to life, and only a few find it.

~It is well with my soul

Now That I Can

2011-06-30T12:07:00.000-04:00

I removed the surgical bandages from my knee this morning and it feels so good. I still have the steri-strips over the three incisions, but they are very small. It feels foreign to me to be able to use my knee in a normal fashion. For years I have been unable to extend my knee without a lot of pain, which made me walk with an unnatural gait. I've been walking this way for so long, it's now become the norm, and I now have to "unlearn" it and start using my knee normally. How easily the body and sometimes the mind will adapt itself to what is not healthy, and when changes come about to reverse the unhealthy...the body is stubborn.
This temporary light bulb moment makes me reflect on all areas of every day living. Those "now that I can" moments. Do we recognize them and eagerly make the best of them, or do we cling to old ways that are sometimes destructive, just like my walking as if my knee were still injured. I used to often wish I could take a nap. I can now....any time and as often as I want. Life isn't all about naps, as refreshing as they can be. You can over-do a good thing! Life is about those now that I can moments.
My light bulb moments seem to come later then earlier in my life. I can't change that, I'm just thankful I can still have them!
God speaks in the most every day and hidden places in our daily life, especially now that I can hear Him.

~It is well with my soul

Post Surgery

2011-06-29T14:02:00.000-04:00

My knee surgery went well yesterday, and I'm glad it's over. I'm home and not doing a lot except relaxing. I feel strangely tired, maybe some of that magic sleep medicine is still in my system.
I'm not in any pain and haven't taken any pain medication. I went outside on the deck for a bit and took Hal lunch while he worked on the yard. I got to hot and came back in!
It feels odd to use my knee properly after walking with a stiff leg to avoid pain for so long. I'm glad it's over and thankful for all your prayers and well wishes...they mean so much to me.

~It is well with my soul

Surgery

2011-06-28T09:29:00.000-04:00

I will be leaving for the hospital in a few hours to get my pesky knee fixed! Soon my torn meniscus will be torn no more and hopefully I'll be able to resume my skateboarding career. OK, maybe not skateboarding, but hopefully walking without pain.
I imagine this to be a successful operation and expect no problems. Just the same, a prayer on my behalf would be appreciated!
Thanks!!

~It is well with my soul

Sweet Treat For The Week

2011-06-27T09:58:00.000-04:00

As I've mentioned before, I've been reading the Mitford Series of books. Just to confirm that I am a bit of a nerd, I felt compelled....deep within me....to make Esther Bolick's Orange Marmalade cake; the same cake that put Father Tim into a diabetic coma. Yes, it truly is that good! It's very sweet and I think that any other topping and filling might also work as well such as lemon, blueberry, etc. But if I used on of those, it wouldn't be Esther's cake now would it? My favorite part of the cake is the frosting. It's made of heavy cream, sour cream and sugar. Oh my.

I cut one piece for myself - Hal was out of town- and took the rest to Sara's house. It was hard to do, but I was strong!

If you've ever read the Mitford Series books by Jan Karon, you are familiar with the notoriety of this cake, if not, take my word for for it....it's good!

If you'd like the recipe, click here.http://us.penguingroup.com/static/packages/us/mitford/recipe.htm

Note: do not even entertain the thought of putting it in a smaller pan then a 9 inch round. It will ooze all over your oven. Take my word for it.

~It is well with my soul

Sunday Scripture

2011-06-25T22:54:00.000-04:00

Isaiah 58:11

The Lord will guide you always; he will satisfy your needs in a sun scorched land and will strengthen your frame. You will be like a well watered garden, like a spring whose waters never fail.

~It is well with my soul