Football and Parade

It will be football and parades for the next few days. The colleges have such energy and are wanting to win. Their games are so much more interesting to watch than the pros. At least for me. The pros have become so much more business like. When coaches get fired left and right and go from team to team YUK! It is no longer the game its the dollar. The behavior of some of the players astound me. Are they idiots or don't they have any idea of right and wrong?

The Rose Parade is one of my favorites. It shows the beauty of God's work. All the things on those floats are things that God put on this earth. I can get my flowers for the year just by watching that parade.

We Made It.

Another Christmas is over and we are in the last week of 2008. For me it is a time to reflect: what I did right and what I did wrong. Not put it in writing though. I am not sure I would like the length of wrongs to be seen by everyone. And when I think back don't get angry all over again about things I have no control over. Pray harder on some and some just forget about.
Thank God for allowing me to be around yet. I remember when 75 seemed ancient.
Thank God for my family-the good parts and the bad parts.
Thank God for my friends and neighbors.
Thank God for my church. The pastor has a way of getting to me more than any of the previous pastors. No details given out!
There are more things but these are the most important. Of cource, the country and those brave troops can't be forgotten.
Come on 2009! I am waiting for you.

Merry Christmas

Merry Christmas to all. I hope God will be glorified by our observes of His Son's birthday. Christmas is a wonderful time of year-not the decorations or gifts but the GIFT of all gifts.

Whoopee!!!!!

After dealing with 6 different doctors this year I am finally done for 2008. I am relieved to say no more this year. I can see how people start to feel they have to see a doctor for everything. I don't want to and think back when we didn't have all the tests and different doctors. The appointments in 2009 have already started to be set up. I wish I could turn my back on all of them. I am 75 years old-Iam not brand new by any stretch of imagination. Not all parts work as well as they did but isn't that life.

The season

I have had a great season so far. I have had the CHRISTmas spirit so far. I have had about 10 to 12 young people in my front room singing CHRISTmas carols. They brought in snow and one young lady was upset. I asked her "What is snow?" It is water and it will dry. Don't worry about it. They sang about six songs and gave me a tin of home made cookies and a card.
Such Fun!
My front room is decorated. One table has a creche set with a farm building and the shepardand his sheep,the farmer and cows and donkeys, and the three kings. Of cource there is Mary,Joseph, and Jesus. Jesus was missing from the set and I had to go looking for one. Found Him. (Hint Hint-not a bad thing to search for) I have another table with white ceramic creche,Mary, Joseph and Jesus. A angel that is about 12" tall holding a white candle. A tree that lights up with clear doves.
The whole set in the white ceramic is so beautiful. One window has a small green ceramic decorated tree. Another window has a basket like tree all decorated with a red cardinal on top. And my third window has a 32" fiber optic tree in it. I have a 32" snow man standing in my front room. Made of wood leaning up against a welcome sign. My front door has a plastic tree hanging on it.
Sunday I was picked up for church. Many of the young people did do something. When the little ones sing or play an instrument it is so great. What a blessing. Then I stayed for Pot Luck lunch. I was amazed by the amount of food and the good company. I usually don't do pot lucks as I am not comfortable with them.
Now back to reality. Yesterday I was sweeping snow off my porch and steps and I broke the handle in half. Now it will be a short broom to carry in the car. I walked into the kitchen this morning and my cat Ginger had dumped the garbage over.
Coffee grounds,orange peal,plus; so short or not the floor had to be swept.
The magic day is coming. Hope all goes well. Hugs.

USO Show

Tonight I watched Trace Atkins (not sure of spelling) in a USO show over in Iraq and Afganistan. There were a few differences in this show. The girls wern't beauties there for show: they were military fighting like the men. I can remember Bob Hope's shows during the Vietnam War. And all I can say is WHY? Will it ever end? Will we ever learn? Thank God we have people that are willing to fight. But why do we have to have them? Years ago Bob Hope prayed that he could stop doing this type of show . And when he ended a show he would say maybe next year I will be able to stay home. This show has really affected me. I'm glad the USO is around but wish it wasn't needed.

Award

Sarah has seen fit to give me an award for my blog. I can't fulfill the rules of the award so I beg her forgiveness. I thought it was very nice of her. I enjoy her tales of England,her family and her love of God. She also likes funny cat pictures. I just have a funny cat Ginger. Blogging has given me a chance to express myself and to make friends from all over.

Brrrrr

The temp right now is -11 degrees. I am so glad that I can stay in my house and my bedroom windows are fixed.
The only warmth now is in my thoughts of friends and family. Anything that needs to be done outside of the house isn't going to get done. I may climb on furniture but I won't go outside on a day like today. Have a great week.

Week end

Weather ended my great weekend. We had combination snow and freezing rain this morning and tomorrow wind chill is going to be 15-20 below zero. And tomorrow my youngest great grandchild would be coming up here. No little one should be out in those temperatures and I sure wasn't going to be out in it. So my son and my great grandson went home this morning. It didn't make sense for my son to drive home and get Alexus today and come back here. Thats over 160 miles round trip in less than good driving conditions.
There were plans to get my blood work done and a few other things but not in that weather. We had such a good time friday and saturday and we did alot of things that needed to be done. Friday started out by going to the post office to get my mail. Joy Joy I got my property tax bill. Not the best start. I went and did my laundry and little Robert was so good. I went an got refills of a couple of my meds and did some shopping. I went to visit a new store that I wanted to see. Where I wanted to go we went. Then we called it quits because Robert and I were tired. Saturday was another day. Go to the store for another refill, get the makings for cookies for Robert and I to make for him to take home to his mom. More fun!!! My son worked on covering my bedroom windows with insulation. He didn't need a ladder and he moved the whole computor table and all.
I hadn't seen little Robert for months and was amazed how good he was . I wanted more time with him and would have loved to have the little girl up here to. I was sad when they left but I had two good great days.

Expectations

Well it looks like I may have an interesting weekend. My son is coming up and bringing my youngest greatgrandson to stay for a couple of days. Right now it is zero degrees outside and it will be difficult to go places with that temperature so hopefully it will warm up. Of course we will be in my son's vehicle and it will be warmed up before we get in it. But we still have to go from place to place. I have some Christmas decorations out that I will have to move before they get here. A four year old can't understand why he can't touch when it is right where he plays. Have a great week end. Hugs and God Bless

Needs vs Caution

My ladder story seemed to worry some of my blog friends. I was as carefull as I could be and still get the job done. I can't depend on my family to come up and help me everytime there is a need. I will always try to solve a problem before I ask for help. If I can't solve it; I first think does it have to be solved or is there an easy way to solve it. Many problems go away since I can't solve them . They go to limbo. They can sit there for years.
Asking for help is very hard for me. At church I was asked if I have a need and someone volunteered to drive me to a apointment to have my heart loop recorder checked. I was very greatful and Monday I am going to get a ride to the eye doctor. See I can accept some help but there are so many people in church with needs much bigger than mine and I feel guilty when I ask for help.
I know I am 75 and can't do all the things I want to but I made it through this year with a retina problem, abroken wrist, and a broken foot. I have changed my life alot but I won't give in or give up any more than I have to. God is watching over me and I might give Him a few bad moments but He is with me.
I am sleeping much better and not buried under blankets or wearing lots of clothes to sleep in.
Hugs to you all.

Strange Days

The last few days the wind has been very strong. Sunday eve when I was in bed I could feel a cold breeze on my face. The neighbors Christmas lights were making my bedroom lit up also. So Monday I started out with a plan. The first thing I did was put my electric blanket in opposit direction-head to foot. Easy fix. The next thing was to cover my windows with blue blankets. Thats when the fun began! I got my two step ladder and was ready to go or at least I thought I was ready to go.
I couldn't reach the windows so I tried to step onto computor table- wrong! It started to give out. Quick get off. Went to the other window which wasn't blocked. Step ladder and blanket to the ready but the drapes had to come off before the blanket could go on. Stopped took the drapes off and put the blanket up. Drapes sitting on the floor in a pile. Off to the other window behind the computer. What was I going to do? Oh, the bed side small 3 drawer dresser. Cleaned off the top of it and got the step ladder and blanket again. Oh the drapes, had to stretch and pull them off. Did it! some more lying on the floor in a pile. Climb the step ladder over the top rail onto the night stand-big stretch and got that blanket up on the window. Now the trick is to get down! LOL Didnot want to step backwards over the bar to the ladder so I took to my bed. One foot on the bed and then I fell. Soft landing onto the bed. Put the things back on the dresser and folded the drapes. Now I have a dark bedroom. Only have to sleep in different direction-no problem right-wrong! Wake up at 2:30 a.m. and have to think how do I get out of the bed in this dark bed room and get to the bathroom. This has been my room for 30 + years and some little changes had me for a minute. See little things are important!

Banana Belt ? and Ramblings

100 miles north of where I live they have had about 2 feet of snow-10 in one storm.
100 miles south they have had about 4 inches.
200 miles south are supposed to get 7 inches tonight.
Now where I live I have seen snow covered grass once. Today the road is white but the snow is not much.
So I live in a section of the country that has gotten down to single digets but not much snow.
I am not complaining but it does seem strange.
Life is a little boring when you start comparing snow amounts.
With all the bombings and killings, it makes you wonder how come your so blessed.
I think of small things and take pleasure in them. Phone calls and pictures from my family.
Am I wrong for enjoying the small things? Surely I am not expected to dwell on all the bad news-I feel it but am not able to change it.

Thanksgiving Time

I love this holiday! It makes you think of things you are thankful for. Even when things are not the way you would like them to be, you think of the good things in your life. I think everyone can find some things to be thankful for. I wish this holidday would go world wide. But just think about having to think of something good. For a brief time people would feel better. The little things would become important.

If you are alive and breathing you have something to be thankful for.

Strange mood

I am really in a strange mood the last few days and I am wondering if others have felt this way and how they handled it.
I look at my closet and see things that I am not wearing and probably won't wear and I just want to get a bag and fill it it up.
Of cource it is strange things like my mother's mink coat and a coat that I got from someone in the 40s. It had a cloth outside with moutan fur inside. My late mother in law made me a new cloth outside for it many years ago. Now why do I have it still. Memories-the woman that gave it to me became a woman marine in ww2. The dress I wore to my son's wedding is another piece. I do have some old clothes but I wear them. It just seems that my closet is not the only place that needs to be emptied. My sons have things that could go and if not out, at least to their house. Have I been watching too much HGTV?
Please don't suggest a rumage sale because I couldn't handle it. There are my colections -cows,angels and stuffed toys that I can't get rid of. I don't know how long some of these things will remain in my house.

Scam Alert

Today I received a message that my e-mail Id had won $ 250,000 Great Britain Pounds Sterling. To claim it I was to send all my information to an E-mail address. I am not LOL I am angry. It just seems that people don't think we know enough not to reply and give out our idenity.
What you get for nothing is nothing. Don't fall for these scams. Times are tough but this will not make it better.

This and that

Well I had the propane tank filled today. I always say nothing could shock me BUT was I wrong. I didn't have any idea how high the price had gone. Budget payments are the only way I could manage.
I had a call from the heart doctor's nurse. There will be another med change. I had a med change when I saw my regular doctor and now I am off the pill my heart doctor wants me to double up on. Fun and games when your doctors are miles apart. I will just wait for another call.
There has been strange news stories in the last few days. An 8 year old boy being charge with the murder of his father and someone else. A 90 year old woman found to be living with the bodies of her dead siblings in her home. Natural deaths but one was dead for quite some years. So sad!
((Hugs)) and God Bless!

A beginning

Well, we have had the election. Now we get to see what will happen. It is a turning around a bend in the road not knowing what is coming up. Can I change what happens-No. My life is pretty well set but the younger people will have a chance to change things. I am going to sit back and watch.

Number 13

Today I was #13 to vote. I was home from voting by 7:10.a.m.. Now that I have that done the day is mine!

Election Day

Tomorrow is election day. Every election is important; but this one has historical meaning. The first woman and the first black man wanting to be elected. Voting for your choice is not only a right but a duty. There are places where you can't vote for your choice. The right to vote has not been easily won. People have suffered and some died to get that right. You hear good and bad about the candidates. It all depends on who you listen to. The president isn't the only thing we need to vote for tomorrow.
VOTE YOUR CHOICE! No one needs to know who you voted for but be proud to say you voted.
God Bless America!

Good News

I am so happy! and for a few reasons.
I received an e-mail from my sister! She is home. Still weak but said the good Lord sent her back twice so there must be something she still needs to do here on earth.
My one son who came up and insulated with foam around my windows called and asked how it was working. I didn't have much to say BUT when I went to bed last night it dawned on me- I am not feeling a breeze from the window . I can face away from the wall. Its strange how when things are better you don't always realize it; you just enjoy.
I am getting fuel assistance and a check has been sent to the company that provides my propane. When you get some help paying the heating bill it is nice. More food on the table and less covering while sitting in the chair in the front room.
My friend thats having a problem with her blood pressure may have finally gotten some answers and how to get better.
I hopefully can go downstairs in my basement and straighten it some more now that a load of junk went to refuse place.
Still need to pray for another friend with medical problems.
But I have had a good week and I am so thankful.

Updates

Monday I went up to Marquette Mi. for a check up on my heart monitor. I had a few spells that they could see but when the tech took the results to the cardiologist he said that he wasn't to concerned? The tech said he was going to show the doctor that put in the monitor and he might get in touch with me for a change in my meds. Oh well! On monday during that trip of 96.5 miles each way we saw rain,snow,fog and bright sunlight. The roads were wet and dry but had nothing staying on the roads. It was amazing how many changes and how fast they came. I was driven up there by a wonderful lady from church and her delightful 6 year old daughter.
My sister is supposed to come home today from the nursing home. That is for sure answered prayer! May she get backher strength fast.
Today my son is supposed to come up with my little greatgranddaughter. she is 15 months old now. We are going to clean up part of the basement and get it taken to the refuse place. I guess I should say he is going to clean up. Not me! I am only good to be a supervisor with this wrist.
So my life is going on with a few chances in the last few days to help a friend who was having blood pressure problems and needed my help.
On Monday little Esther said thats what friends are for helping each other.
God Bless and have a great week.

Fun Time

This afternoon two girls from Northland Baptist College came for a visit. What fun! Their youth and niceness(is that a word?) made for good company. I enjoyed the time we spent together.

Frustration

It amazes me how I can go from being so blessed to so frustrated when something doesn't go right. The good Lord has some work to do with me. I am a very fortunate woman and there are so many people that have more to deal with than me.
BUT I fail when things are not right or at least what I think are not right. I know I lost alot of tolerence for "normal people" when I worked with development disabled and saw what they could do and how they acted compared to the "NP".
That isn't an excuse. Is it my age? Am I just losing my ability to fight the fight or walk the walk?
Know this I am trying to improve and with God's help I will.

Feelings

For a number of reasons I am feeling very fortunate this evening. With so much going wrong and so many suffering, my life is blessed. I don't care to give all the reasons but rest assured I am a happy person this evening. I hope I never forget my good fortune when things go wrong. Like tonight when I came home I missed the driveway and one of the wheels of my car hit the ditch but I was able to keep driving and when I moved the car after unloading groceries the car seemed fine. Tomorrow when I take it to garage for oil change I will be able to check.
Today I had my mammogram and ladies I hope you get yours if you are supposed to. That is the one test I am prompt about taking. I know too many woman who have had breast cancer. Some alive and some not. : o )

Update

My sister has left the hospital and gone to a nursing home for rehab. It is closer to her home and her husband can drive the car that far to see her. With both of them it is best-Bob has got to do for himself more and Betty can see him doing well and not worry about him and concentrate on getting well. It makes me so thankful that they both are getting better and reminds me that my troubles are not that bad regardless of what happens to me.

Good News

My sister is out of ICU- She has had the surgery and is doing good. God is so Good. He does answer prayer.

Waiting

Today I had to go to the doctor's office for blood work. I went early for two reasons. One because I was fasting and two because I wanted to get back home as soon as possible. They were starting a new system within the lab.
It was amazing how different people can act. Most just waited but a few got very upset. It didn't make things go faster. The staff are very good at seeing first come first served.
Update: My sister is still in ICU but the infection is gone. She was so sure that pacemaker would go in today but she is waiting to.
The trip up was beautiful. The colorful trees mixed in with the pines makes for such a pretty picture. Living in the country in a small town and having forest all around is great.

God's Gifts

My sister is still with us. Still in ICU waiting for the infection to be healed so they can do the pacemaker operation.
We are having beautiful weather and we can see the beautiful color all around us. There is a spot about 10 miles from here that has an open vista with such beautiful color. Going north or going south you are blessed with beautiful color.
Gas has gone down.
These are all gifts; after the hectic last couple of weeks lets not forget to thank God for the things around us. We have many wants and needs but God is good and lets not forget it.

Same-0h Same-oh

That was my usual answer when someone asked me how things were going. This week isn't that way at all. I was upset because something I am expecting isn't comingand may not come at all even after a promise that it would. I was not feeling well on Sunday and actual pain caused tears fell. I"m better now. Then came Tuesday: My nephew called and said my sister was in the hospital and they almost lost her. There was a doctor in the room talking to her when she suddenly turned toward her son- eyes rolled back into her head - her mouth opened wide and the heart moniter alarm went off. The doctor called for the crash cart. I don't know how long she was gone but she did come back and is in ICU now. They are talking about a pacemaker being put in when she is better. She hasa problem that needs to be taken care of before they can give her the pacemaker.
So no more same-oh same-oh. I am concerned about my sister. Her husband went home from the hospital on Wednesday but she won't be there to take care of him and he will have to start taking care of himself. I am still disappointed with my problems but theydon't compare to what is going on in Texas so far away.
God Bless and have a great rest of the week.

Another Four Generation Time

This is not just a repeat of the other 4 gen. days. Yesterday when my son,my gs, and my ggd it wasn't just a visit it was work time. A part of the kitchen ceiling that hasn't been right except for 2 days a few years back was tiled. It had been once before but a bad storm came and the tile was removed. It has been there since 1976 when I bought the house. New roof new windows new siding didn't solve the problem but it is now. How does one live with a hole in the ceiling for over 30 years? I just did what I had to. I will be a little fearful when we have a bad storm but for now it is fixed.
I had a leaky faucet-drip drip. Destroyed the floor under the sink. I now have a new stainless faucet and new sink. My floor under the sink has been cover with some plywood.
The 1/2 inch wood trim around the ceiling has been put up. Needless to say I am not a repair person and I can't always find someone to work on my house. But I live in it because it is mine and I love it. So you can see this wasn't the usual visit.
My 14 month old greatgrand daughter seems to have grown a great deal since I last saw her. Walking all around, eating regular food. Getting in the way when everything is torn up but giving us a smile. She is content to play by herself. We were eating lunch out yesterday when a woman came in with her 17 month old son. Alexus start jabbering right away. These two little ones were solving the problems of the world. It was so great to see.
It was a good time yesterday and today before they left. I wonder what tomorrow will bring.

Work day

Well today I got up early and drove the 20 miles so I could get my wash done. I was down to a few pieces to wear and it needed to be done. Turning undies insideout so they can be worn again does not appeal to me. After doing the laundry I picked up some groceries. I was home complely worn out but the laundry and shopping are done. PTL I wonder if the pastor's sermon on sunday about working and the rest will come rubbed off more than I realized.
Have a great week. Continue to pray for this country and the election. The discussion in the laundramat was fairly hot this morning.

Small Town USA

This morning I saw small town USA at its best. The school was having its homecoming parade. The men of the American Legion started the parade with carring of the colors. The fire trucks, the rescue squads had their sirens blaring. The school band was marching and playing. The girls from 4H marched. Each class of the high school had a float. There was a crowd watching. The kids were watching waiting to catch the candy being thrown from the vehicles. Cars were parked in a parking lot so they could get a good view. It was nice for the sick and elderly to see while in the comfort of their cars. People lined the streets watching the parade. From infants to elderly out there watching the parade. One fire truck had two dogs in the front seat as if they were driving, another had very young children sitting on their dad's lap in drivers seat. It was going to rain but it held off till the parade was over and people had about 15 minutes to get home. It was a small parade but it had a big spirit and was enjoyable. With all that is going on in this country now its great to have alittle rest and be small town.

Political E-mail

Every one has a right to vote as they want in a secret ballot. But I have been getting alot of e-mails that blow my mind.
I will be glad when this election is over. The election process is getting disgusting and not what this country should have.
With all the technology they have ruined the election process. It keeps getting worse. Never has so much untruth been put out and how they put a "spin" on everything.
Don't let this slime keep you from voting. Pray that the millions of dollars being spent will start going not to ads but to the people that could use the help. With the storms and the forclosures, to blow needed funds on smear and spin is wrong.

I'm off my soap box now and praying for this country.

Weekend

A little over 30 years ago my neighbor had a beautiful daughter. One day I picked her up and this sweet little baby stuck her finger in my eye and scratched it. This meant wearing a patch on my eye and if I didn't there was pain. What does this have to do with the weekend?
Saturday , my son John,his wife Rebecca and I went to this girl's wedding. It was outside in a park on the shore of Lake Michigan in Escanaba , Michigan. They had it by the band shell. So the seating was all set up. The bride's father set up a tent so the bride and her attendents could not be seen until she walked down the aisle. The weather was even nicer than was forcasted. The parents had colored sand (brown &blue) which they placed in a glass candle holder instead of a candle.
The two flower girls spread rose petals were dressed in brown dresses with blue sashes. The attendents wore beautiful blue dresses. The men were in brown tux. The bride had a blue band at the top of her dress and blue and white lacing down the back of her gown. The service was beautiful. When Karen and Mike walked back the aisle they were treated with bubbles from containers that everyone got. The containers were even trimed with blue and brown tiny ribbons. It was beautiful.
At the reception there was a small net bag with blue and brown m&ms with a little tag saying thank you. The cake was frosted in brown and blue. It was a great day.
We left and drove the hour home happy but tired. My son drove and he and his wife saw 3 deer along side the road. I only saw the last one. He was just about in the road. We were in the country and it was dark. But the good Lord kept us safe.
Have a great week and God Bless!

Done It

Although I can't believe it I have reached 75. It seems soo old and yet when things are going right I don't feel that old.
And unfortunately I don't always act that old. But one thing I do relish- I have reached an age where I feel I can have an opinion and voice it. My foot is in my mouth once in awhile and I eat shoe leather but I am willing to do it. I have tried to keep this blog moderate and not hostile. So everyone have a good week and God Bless.

The Foot

Well the doctor said it looks like the 5 days of antibiotics I have left should clear the infection I have. It is going to take time for the break in my foot to heal. I have to be careful the way I walk. But at least I don't have to sit all the time. God does protect us.

The Foot

Well there is a break but it is one of those that has to heal on its own. The biggest problem is the infection I have in my foot.
I have to keep it elevated ice it and take anti biotics. Stay off my foot and as little walking around as posible. I have to go back to doctor on Monday. Oh Joy. I think I should just think about how bad it could have been. I am being watched over with all I had happen in the last few months.

Sitting

Needless to say I have done enough sitting these last few days. I am seeing things i wish were done in my house and there are a few places I would like to go but i can't. I had a couple of calls from greatgrands and that helps,BUT It is getting to me.
I can't do too much reading and I can't watch TV. Hopefully this foot will heal and I will join the human race.

Greatgrand

This day started out with a call from my oldest son and my oldest greatgranddaughter. Whenever Amanda calls she says "Grandpa being Sassy". Today I asked if she was sassy and I heard a very fast" no." My son said she asked to call me. This way I talk to my son and my greatgrand. I told her that she should ask grandpa for a hug and I heard her say it to my son. I hope she got her hug. There isn't alot of needed conversation but the love flows through the call.

RIP

A day of remembrance!

What a day.

Today I needed to go see eye doctor about 95 miles south. On the way down there we stopped for a bathroom break. My feet were asleep from all the riding and when I tried to leave the car I twisted my foot badly. So for the day I hobbled. I was not a totaly happy person. But we traveled on and found out at the doctor's office that I wasn't without problem in my eye.
There is still some swelling andthough I didn't see improvement on paper the vision in my left eye went up from 100 to 80.
No 20/20 in my eyes. I will have to come back in 3 months to keep check on veins in my eye and my vision. Life goes on.
My foot is now rapped and I need to keep it elevated. I will give it a couple of days to rest and get better. What is there to say-we all have problems and we can't let them get us down. Maybe the wisdom is in knowing that the foot will heal if I take care of it. ((Hugs))

Wisdom

Of what value is wisdom that isn't used? Is there any value in knowing something and caring it around in your head?
Alot of us know what should be done and it still isn't done. Is the value of wisdom in the fact that sometimes we use it to keep the status quo; or to change it.
The wisdom is out there but will it be used? This world has a need will it get it? Or will we all sit and savor the knowledge we have?

Another Mother's Joy Day

Yes another day of remembering the birth of a son. This one was 45 years ago. It comes back so clearly. This one started and stopped for a couple of days. When I figured time to go to the hospital labor would stop. But on the 2nd. , he finally was born. He was the smallest of my sons. But the first born of my new family. I hadn't had a baby for over 9 years so this was all new all over. The memories are so wonderful and I consider myself blessed . Happy Birthday Robert!

How to warm up a cold house?

This morning I woke up in a cold bed room. Window open and no furnace on. It had gotten down to 42 last time I had checked. First thing I did was close that window. I made some coffee. I didn't want to start the furnace because it was going to get into the 70s. But this old body was colder than cold. I knew I had to cook something in the oven but I don't cook much anymore. I don't like to waste food and I don't like to eat the same stuff for days. My freezer had the ingredients for one thing I could cook and not mind eating. I got the rest of what I needed out of my cupboards and went to work. Oven was on for an hour an a half. The house was warm and I had 2 chocolate pecan pies. YUM YUM
I know there are a dozen of reasons I shouldn't have cooked that and all I can say is my neighbor had a smile on her face when I gave her half a pie.

Mother"s Joy

Yesterday my daughter-in-law Rebecca had her birthday and today was my son's. I couldn't go back on Rebecca's day but today I could go back on John's day. It is strange how you can go back and remember the things that happened. It's been 44 years but some memories come back so clearly. I am so glad that I have that ability to remember.

Ask and Then Think Why?

It was a beautiful afternoon, not too hot and the weeds were filling my lawn. The grass had one small spot that hadn't died and was still green. The weeds were the only thing growing and the good Lord did give us some weeds with flowers on.
SO I got the lawn mower out and the gas can and was prepared to go to work. LOL :( I primed,pulled,and primed somemore and got no response from that machine. I walked away disgusted! Let it set in the front yard- I'm mad. My arm hurts and that machine has me tired. Oh,but wait;the man across the street has come home from work and is getting out of his truck.
He is shirtless and hot from working in the woods since early morning. He sees me standing there and the machine in my yard. Joyce ,do you want your mower started? Have you gassed it up? Yes to both questions I say. He walks over to that machine - primes it, pulls the rope and away it goes-no struggle there. He smiles and I say - you make me so mad when you do that and thank you. He smiles and walks to his house while I start cutting my weeds. After doing it thats when I say WHY.
I'm so tired and I only want to make it into the house - drink some water and collapse in my chair. I waited for it to go back to a beautiful afternoon while I looked at my weedless yard.

Surprise visit

I had a brief but wonderful visit today. My eldest son stopped by on his way home from vacation. His wife,son and daughter,his son's partner and my two oldest greatgranddaughters. Amanda and Rachel are wonderful. I had Rachel here when she was 6 wks old. She is now 5. Amanda is 5 also but I have seen her a few more times. It is amazing how much time goes between visits. I talk to Amanda on the phone quite often. It is funny when she says "Grandpa sassy". It wasn't a long visit but any time spent with family is precious to me.

Busy Times-Strange Times

Its been a few weeks of What Next? in and around my world. So I haven't posted-lurked a few times . Will need to get on an even keel before I try to post. I saw something last week in an Menards add. It said "Enjoy when you can and endure when you must". I thought it was good advice for me. Hugs and God Bless to you all.

Happy Birthday

Your first birthday and I hope and pray its a good one. You have brought joy to the world and I hope you get some back

No Subject Just Ramblings

Life has gone on since I last posted; some good things and some bad. Terrible fatal crashes within a few hundred feet from each other. These were about a week apart. Lives lost and others changed forever. In this area rumors and stories fill the air. It is such a shame
I cut part of my grass this afternoon. I had to have a neighbor start it. I can't pull the string with enough" umph". While I did the front he rode his rider and did the back. It is such a "good" feeling when it is done. My lower back is hurting, my hand hurts and I know I did something. My eyes were bad and my blood pressure was really down. BUT the lawn is cut!
Does any one know who can give permission to take a speech put it on a monument but leave the last line of the speech off because God was mention? For a country that was founded for religious freedom that is really stupid! The more this is done and people find out doesn't it show just how great God is.
At church yesterday one of the men had a cast on his arm just like I had. Being the dignified and somber lady that I am, I walked up to him and said "Copycat". He broke his in almost the same place I did.
Have a great week and see all the good things God has done.

The week and the weak

This has been an interesting time. I had laser treatment on my eye and I went to the doc about my arm and was released from his care.
I spent brief period with the wee ones. They can give you such joy and such a headache. And I in my arrogance think "If only I could have a week with them alone." I was there when a parent was little and a grandparent was little so what do I think I could do. So I make a few points and I pray.
Youngest started walking so the fun begins!

Little Thing Makes for Big Day

Today I took the chance that I have put off for quite awhile. The cast is off my arm, the car is here and the laundry is piled up;
I took the car and my laundry and did it. The 40 mile round trip went fine and my arm managed the wash.
The good Lord watched over me.

My home is not a message center!!!

I am retired and have been for over 14 years. I did not open a message center or a locater for people to call. And nasty people don't deserve my time . As you can tell someone pushed my buttons today. I have made it a habit not to give out phone numbers or addresses . I resent when people say you can't get in touch with them. It is not any one's business whom I talk to. I pay my phone bill and it is for me to decide if I want to answer a phone call or if I want to have a conversation with some one. I guess I lost some points for politeness but I don't care.

The Weekend

My son and his wife came up on Friday. On Saturday we went to home depot to get something to help close the gaps in my windows. When the woodwork was removed the gaps were terrible. When you can see outside you understand why you get a cold wind from a closed window. I know this will help some. John worked hard. Then we went from heating to cooling and he put air conditioner in front room window. All this to make my house more comfortable.
It wasn't all work and no fun. We had a good time.

Global warming

Today warming is very much on my mind. I received a letter from my heating company yesterday raising my budget payment $100 a month. I will be figuring out my budget for the next few days because of it. I am blessed that I have the hope of figuring out how I'm going to do it. No time for senility or dementia now-just add and subtract till I do it.

No I don't want any cheese with this whine!
Hugs and God Bless!

The Fourth of July & Global Warming

It's here- the day we celebrate being an American. We celebrate our freedoms that come to us at a cost that some forget about. I am an American and am proud of it. Is our country without its faults-No. There is no country without its faults because all countries are run or ruled by people and people are not perfect. But HAPPY 4th.

#200 Post

A year ago on this date I posted about buying a blue pull over shirt for my neighbor that turned 84. Today I can post that I bought another pull over shirt-not blue but dusty cedar for his 85th. He liked it and the color looks good on him. Some things stay the same.
Today was also important to me because I was married on this day many many years ago. I played the what if game. If my husband hadn't died 42 years ago where would I be and all different what ifs. Would I have worked where I worked and would I have move up north to a small town. You know I didn't come up with any answers.
I am getting good at asking questions but whats the difference? Life goes on and I need to do the best I can. : )
Have a great week.

Facts And Confusion

The more facts I learn leads more to overload and confusion. Too many facts and my not totally understanding all the info and results of the tests. They can do so much now and can tell every little thing going on inside your body. How many of you have seen the inside of your eye? Leakage inside my eye and edema-LOL. Other parts of my body I can understand but on the inside of my eye.
God created a wonderful body but I am seeing too much of the little bits 'n' pieces.
I almost long for the good old days: If you didn't feel good - you were sick and you waited to get better or if it didn't and the pain got too bad then you saw a doc.
Well have a good week end and enjoy. (Hugs) :o)

Week is moving on!

Tuesday I had cast removed from my arm. I would love to say it feels great but we all know that isn't the way it works. I should not lift heavy things and I'm not. But times when I move it OUCH. Today my son came up so he can take me to eye doctor tomorrow morning. I did a little weed wacking and he cut grass. It felt good to be able to do something. But that arm can still hurt and swell up a bit. Life goes on. Monday this son was in hospital with kidney stones. How can I complain of any pain? I'll let you all know tomorrow what will happen now.:o) Hugs

Week's Forcast

This week is going to be one to remember. If Sunday was a preview;its watch out time. I had two doc appointments so I figured things would be different. Tuesday I find out whether the cast comes off my right arm and thats in Iron Mountain.
On Thursday I have to see doc in Green Bay about retina in left eye. I found that out on Wed. last week when I had my eyes checked. Quiet expectations-NOT!!!
Sunday started early-couldn't sleep so on the computer 1a.m. till 2:30 playing solitare. Then back to bed to sleep. I got picked up for church and first thing I hear about is Pastor's wife was rushed up to hospital possible heart attack on Saturday night. Was still in but they think it might be Lymes. A tick had blessed her with that earlier. Then special speaker got to me afew times during his sermon. Came home ate then slept off and on in my chair.
Sunday night someone came over with a gift for me. It was a beautiful lap robe chrocheted (sp) by a young man that I knew who had made some bad choises and was locked up. It was granny squares of all different colors and all joined together with a grey blue yarn(I think). Who knows if I am seeing colors right. Then someone came over with a plate full of cinnamon rolls made from scratch. Later my eldest son called and he asked if I wanted to go with his family to a beautiful part of UP of Michigan at the end of his call. I said no.
Twice during the afternoon I went out to move my non-moving car from the driveway and park it on the street. Every time I went out it started to sprinkle.Car is still parked in my driveway.
What will Monday bring? The Joy? of living the quiet life of retirement.

Slippery Slopes

In everyones lifetime they come upon a slippery slope. What happens next is governed by the way they react. Some you force your way thru. Some you don't do anything until you think about it for days. Some you use your intellect to make it thru. Some you pray thru. Some you forget about and hope it goes away. But the one thing you shouldn't do is think your the only one with a slippery slope.
JUST SLIDE!

A Good Day

I had a very good afternoon. The wee ones were here. Today I had a 5 yr.,a4yr,and an almost 1yr old. My son and his daughter were here. Within 5 minutes my front room was full of toys. The boys walk in and start pulling out the toys.
My littlest great granddaughter is walking around furniture now. I hadn't seen the kids for awhile and I was amazed
how they have changed. We went out to eat and it was so much fun. The boys got a panda toy from McDonalds. I tried to get a pair of pink and white clogs for Alexus and she just kicked her feet till they came off. A female that doesn't like shoes.
The two youngest slept on the way home. After they left my home I walked down to mail a card at the post office. I wanted to put a small plaque inside the card so I didn't even address it until I got to the post office. My neighbor lives a couple of doors away and tomorrow is her birthday. She like me has a post office box so I knew it would get in her box and not get damaged. But when I addressed the card the handwriting was pretty bad but the postmaster knew where it was to go.
When I came home I didn't stay up to long. I was in bed before six. I'm up now because I had to give my son some info after he arrived home. I was teased because I took a nap. Oh well, I can handle it.
Have a great week. I am going to listen to the rain. God bless!

Media--Do They Go To Far?

Yesterday I dropped the local ABC station's Local News. Iwon't watch their news anymore and I let them know why. We do not have to be told everything about someone. At almost 75 I am capable of knowing for myself when someone has done something wrong and do not need a TV news program to dig up bad things on a culprit before they are officially charged.
Even the family of one of the people killed asked that people don't make judgements until all the facts are known. Does that sound like the TV station should dig up things?
Media needs some rules. We do not need to be privey to everything in a person's life. Spreading tales does not bring one person back and hurts the family that lost someone.

Do Not Call

Yesterday for the umpteenth time I ran to answer the phone to hear "This is your last notice". It is for something I don't have and every other day I get my final notice. After a month of final notices I went to the No call List. I can only hope this will work. If I have another call from Mike about Dish TV I will scream. I used to be very polite but no more now as soon as they start I hang up. I used to be on it and as soon as I was off I started to get the calls. I have now taken my phone back.

Have you gotten a stimulus payment? Today I received a notice dated June 2 that I should receive my payment on May 30th.
Some days I just don't understand what people are thinking! Is this why we now pay 42 cents to mail a letter?

My BIL is coming along after his stroke. My GGD is walking pushing a toy. She can't turn yet so she may hit a few things unless they turn toy. My neighbors have cut my grass and planted some plants in my yard today. So I guess it is my cast and my arm that goes from itching to hurting that is making such a grump!
God Bless And hugs. :o)

Greatgrands can lift you and then slam you down

They maybe little but they can get you! The weekend started with my youngest GGD being sick and having to go into the hospital for test then being admitted. She did get released after one day without any diagnoses. (sp) Then on Memorial Day
in early evening I received a call from one of my GDs. When I answered the phone there was this little voice (GGS) saying
"ILove You" a pause then "Who are you?'. When I told him grandma he mention another name. When I told him GrandmaJoyce
He never said another word. I finally hung up when no one else came to the phone.
Did I get put in my place or what? That was my weekend.

Little gifts from God-Birds

Birds can be annoying but I am blessed to have a few around here that make a good day better. There is a woodpecker that likes the RXR sign across the street from my house. The sign is on a 4x4 treated wood pole. The pecking on the pole is loud and happy sounding. It makes me smile. The bird was here last year and is back this year. Tonight it was making music while I was sitting outside. And then I saw a humming bird sitting on the end of a branch and the yellow finch was flying around. The birds are little things that make me wonder how many of God's gifts do we take for granted?

Banned from Church?

I don't know all the facts but some church banned a 13 year old child with autism from church. How does that set with Matthew19:14? Who will it be next? I worked with autistic adults and I don't understand this banning. Does anyone have the full story of this case I would really like to know.

Klutz rides again!!

Well I know I have been quiet lately. I fell walking into my house on the 6th. I broke my glasses and my right wrist and the end of the ulna bone. I broke a small piece off the knob at the end of the bone. Naturally I would brake the one I use the most. Do you know how difficult it is to dress, wash up,eat and do house work. I am learnng a few tricks and when the cast comes off in5 weeks I will be an expert. But praise the Lord it could have been worse. I have no one to blame but myself as I have lived in this house over 30 years and I know the threshold is bad.

So Relax and if something doesn't go right for you just think of my Klutzie move. I'm so glad He watches over me.
Hugs

Never Say Never

I have finally bit the dust. I have always commented about cell phones and how people use them. I never felt the need for one. But now I feel diferent and after buying two phones I finally got one one activated today. The first phone I killed before I could get it activated. I did a little more reading and now have a phone for emergency use. I pray I will never have it on my ear most of the day. All this tech stuff I don't know about but sometimes you do the best you can.

Fun Day

Today I had company. The pastor and his wife from the early 80s. Arline and I had kids that chumed around. They went to the school at the church. When my mom died Arline went with me to make arrangements and the meal after the funeral was at their house. My dad laid on their couch and took a nap. When my dad woke up, he was looking for something to eat and they opened their refridge to get dad something.
We talked of old times and fun times. We talked about different people from back then and when we couldn't think of a name I remembered the year books my son has upstairs. Pastor enjoyed seeing the pictures of him and his wife and kids. And looking up the name of old friends. He saw when his daughter and son graduated from high school. His daughter has a daughter that is graduating from college next month.
It was such a sweet time. We went out to lunch and then they had to start home. This was really a blessed day.

Trip

Well today I thought I would see the electrician but I saw a tech who checked my implant and its recordings of my heart rates.Nothing to worry about was seen. I was asked what I was doing around 1:30 to 2:00 monday afternoon. I said I was weeding and she said my heart rate was up to 125 and that was good exercise as long as I knew when to stop.
Well the equipment works so I wll have to go back up there in 3 months for another check. Joy Joy.

Update

Well I guess I better let you know I am still around. I haven't gone back to the electrician yet about my implant. The only thing I have accomplished is getting a bug. The beautiful days we had I spent indoors. I still have snow in the big drift in my back yard. It was one of the towns places to pile the snow.

Hope you all are having a blessed time.

Snow

Well from rain and snow mix it changed to all wet heavy snow. I hope my tulips that are up a little bit don't get hurt. They sure are covered. I finally got all the snow off my front yard and now it is all white again. Friday we may get some more snow. After a 60 degree day last week - snow isn't really appreciated by many except me so I could get out of going to doctor.
Another case of watch what you wish for. Have a great week. God Bless.

Answered prayer?

It was pretty obvious that my appointment on Wednesday was not something I was looking forward to. God answered my unspoken prayer. That day they may have 6 to 10 inches of snow in the place we have to go. The storm starts with rain then snow with Lake snow coming off Lake Superior. This lady doesn't travel in that kind of weather. I canceled because of the weather. My son was surprised when I called him and told him I cancelled. The nurse set a new appointment for me and after saying that not in one week, we set it for the 23rd. Hopefully the weather will be better.
Thanks God! Even in little things HE is there. We had 60 degrees this weekend and my front yard lost 95% of its snow. The back yard still has plenty. We may get more.

Electrician for the Heart.

Today I received a letter reminding me of my appointment with the clinic in Marquette for next week. I was surprised as when I left there they said come back in April. April has 30 days and thats when I was going to make the appointment. I guess they knew I was not in a rush to talk to them. This implant has caused a few problems for me and it will be good to get some answers. But I never turned it on since I haven't fainted. It is readable from a distance and so I don't know.

Mother Nature's April Fools Joke

She did have a good one! All the schools around are closed because of snow and ice we received. My front steps railings have about 5 inches of snow on them. They had to plow the roads and they are plowed but have a layer of ice. Joy Joy!
That is what living where I do means. But I can remember when I took my first snow day while working. It was in the middle of May. Hope you all have a great day. God Bless

The Joys of 4 Generations.

Today for a few hours my house was filled with the joy and laughter of my 8 month greatgranddaughter. My son and his son
came up with her. She is getting big and able to scoot around. Today she put her arms out to me. She is comfortable with me. Living about 80 miles away I don't see much of her.
I guess I have to be a hermit for a few days if we get the weather that they are warning us about. I will be safe and warm in my house.
Have a great week. God Bless and ((Hugs)) :=)

E-Mail

Here is my E-Mail address. joyce_hilliard@hotmail.com.
Someone tried to get me and couldn't so I can't think of anything else to do.
Good Luck

Ramblings

I find myself thinking about the difference between needs and wants. I have all my needs but not all my wants. I don't feel that we have to get all our wants. I am having a problem accepting that. Some of my wants include others and I can't control anyone but myself.

I am having a great number of dreams lately and they are so weird. Last night I was lost in a big building with lots of crypts.
I had one man scaring me so I picked up a rock and threatened him. (I am not David) I left the building I don't know how and was in a big city still lost. Someone asked me where I live and I couldn't tell them. Then I woke up.

Isn't it amazing what our minds can do to us?

Have a great week & God Bless

Weekend Fun

This was a great week end. My son and his wife came for a visit. They came up Thursday evening and stayed untilSunday morning. It was a week end of doing things that we wanted to do. Rebecca wanted to see Marquette and do some searches.
Walking around in the woods in fresh air and God's beauty I got to understand why she likes to do the searches. I watched from the car. She found some but snow kept her from finding the rest. I was able to go to places that I like to shop at but can't since they are in Marquette. John got to watch NCAA tournament basketball. (March Madness). While out shopping John saw a printer that would go on my computer. I have wanted one for quite awhile so I got it and John hooked it up. Yea!
It was a great time of togetherness that we hadn't enjoyed since before Christmas.
I have missed them.
My son George called me to. Yea! My son Bill called also.
My greatgranddaughter called to to say Thank You for her birthday card. I love her "I love you".
My cooking also turned out which I was happy for.

God was definately good to me this weekend!!!!

Happy Easter

I hope every one can accept this great gift we received. HE IS RISEN! The event kept all the promises of God. It gives the joy
of knowing that we will receive our rewards in Heaven. We have a Spokesman for us in Jesus. It gives us areason to live.

birthday month-generations

On the 3rd --Son
On the 13th--Grandson HOW CAN I FEEL NOT BLESSED?
On the 14th--Greatgrandson
On the21st--Greatgranddaughter

Winter

It is still going strong. We are supposed to get down to -20 below tonight. But I got a picture from BIL in Texas with snow on my sister's front lawn today. It was just enough to cover the grass. The weather has been bad this year. It makes it hard to take little ones out. I did get a chance to see my youngest great grandchildren this week. It always brighten the day. It makes me tired but I am willing to pay for the joy they give.

Last Few Days

It has been a different last few days.I have been worried about my propane supply and Friday I walked to the post office and while I was gone I got propane. The thing is I was out because I had to light the pilot lights on my stove. PTL the furnace relights itself so my house didn't get cold.
Saturday my son came up with my two youngest greatgrands. I hadn't seen them since before Christmas. Robert will be 3 next month and the baby will be 7 months old tomorrow. They stayed overnight. Have they changed. Robert has "Not Me" down pat. When he was told the car needed battery charge he picked up two AA size batteries and said Grandpa would fix the car. When the baby cried he said "Baby tired" The baby sits up and stands up and when my son stood her up she tried to walk. She slept in the front room in a play pen and I tried to sleep on the love seat. LOL I couldn't sleep in my bed and leave her in the front room. Robert slept with his grandpa up stairs. It was such a joy to have them here.
Have a great week! ((Hugs)) and God Bless .

Lost Something!

I have lost something. I used to have it to the max. If you find it please let me know so I can get it back.
It is (my get up and go). But ( Hugs) to you all. Maybe winter is hiding it? When I went into my front room this morning Ginger was sitting on the arm of my chair waiting for me. She had come to the area of my bed room earlier and meow but I ignored her. She definately will not allow me to ignore her when I am up. Oh well, get up and go where are you?

Anniversary Wishes

On the 19th. John and Rebecca celebrate their 8th. aniversary. Please go to Cabcree and say Best Wishes.

Ginger

With all the cold weather and my staying in house my cat is gettingso much attention. She is graving attention all the time. Her nap time is shorten during the day and she wants to play or get on my lap. Ginger is not a small cat and you know when she gets on your lap or stretches out on your legs. Sometimes she walks up to where I am sitting and stares at me. I love her dearly but she isn't as independent as she used to be. Oh well, what better do I have to do.

Is It Spring Soon?

With wind chills down to -45 today and snow blowing,I am getting tired of winter. I am blessed with a house and it has heat.
I'm concerned about the people that arn't as blessed as I. I can only pray for them and hope others are also. The weather in the last week has been bad all over the states. I see snow blowing and then look at TV and see houses destroyed and people that have lost everything to the weather. It is a sad situation.

Brrrr and My Quilt.

Good Morning! It is a great -14 outside and expected windchill around -25 to 45 below. Yesterday I took the electric blanket off my bed. I wanted to use this old quilt I have. It is Dresden Dish Pattern. It is done on large off white sugar bags. It was put together on a sewing machine. It has orange circles in the middle of the pattern. It isn't beautiful; it isn't perfect and I think I love it because it reminds me of me. When I saw it I had to have it. I didn't see in blue ink info about sugar company until later at home.
We all are not perfect but we can strive for perfection. We can be useful even when we are old and have lived awhile.
Count your Blessings- Enjoy who you are! God Bless and ((Hugs))

You can't hybernate all the time.

Today it was -2 when I awoke. I needed to get some groceries,some laundry done, and vanity won out. I needed to get my haircut. I called a friend and cold or no cold I did what I wanted to get done. It is easy to go from house to warm car .
I even mailed out bills and tax payment(ouch). I sent my son's birthday gift also. They say it will be colder tomorrow morning but I hope to stay warm and indoors. I dressed warm and I was determined to accomplish some thing besides sitting in the house. Living where I live I should expect this type of weather though I don't have to like it. I guess old age is catching up with me. Have a great next few days and count all your blessings. Hugs to you all. Joyce

Difference of a week.

Last week when we had to travel the roads were clear and no problem. Today we have 6 inches of snow and wind.
I haven't gone anywhere since I came home on Friday. The site of the implant is hurting less and less with each day.
My neighbors have been soo helpful. I had fresh fried fish brought over. Another went to the store and got me some milk and my mail from the post office. I am really being a hermit. I haven't had but one brief weak spell. I didn't hit the activator because it didn't last that long. The weather man said after the snow we are going to get cold and have a weekend below zero. You all know I will stay in my house. It is amazing what we don't need to do when it gets cold and snowey. I wish the implant area would be healed so with all this time I could get more done. Have a great week! Stay warm and if you are in warmth ENJOY!. ((Hugs)) :=)

PTL

I am home not feeling too bad. I needed to do something so I started to treat this as a mini vacation. Eating out and spending one night in Hospital's Motel. Everyone was so nice. My son and I had a fine time together. He kept giving me a "hard time" just to lighten the day. Thank you all for your prayers . I had acess to computer Thursday night and was able to get your engouragement. God Bless. Joyce

Off I Go

Today I'm going up to Marquette with my son. Today lab and tomorrow that implant goes in so they can check my heart rate for over a year. Will post tomorrow when I am home again. God Bless and ((Hugs)).