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Oldiesmann: I'm not aware of any Jenny. Not sure why activity has died down on this site so much though 2023-06-12, 00:06:36

JennyW: Also, does anyone know other photo sharing sites that are Christian? 2023-05-16, 08:47:03

JennyW: Hello Everyone! I really miss activity on this site. I've been discouraged by photography sites where you have to sort through so much explicit content in order to see photos that truly glorify God. I'd love to see this site pick up again. 2023-05-16, 08:46:36

Janet: Carol, I am just reading this.  So sorry for your loss, glad your beloved Don knew the Lord and you have the assurance of his eternity  and that you WILL see him again.  Much love to you.  Janet 2022-06-18, 08:49:36

Oldiesmann: So sorry for your loss Carol. Praying for you and your family :( 2022-05-01, 17:13:05

Carol: My husband Don is with the angels.....Our family was able to hold  ourselves together for the last moments.  Juar rhoufhr you might want to know. 2022-04-29, 23:35:15

Carol: Thankful:  Don is home from hospital.  I found him unconscious with head outside on the floor and the rest was in the shower.  At the same moment, one son was walking through the front door to visit.  Two fire trucks came racing in and they took over After 2021-12-29, 22:01:26

JennyW: Autumn is shaping up to be quite beautiful this year! 2021-10-02, 12:24:03

JudyB: I will be back this evening to start July's thoughts..... The wedding was beautiful! 2021-07-02, 11:51:09

JudyB: June is finally started! 2021-06-07, 12:34:35


Thoughts of the Month~ June/July

Started by JudyB, June 05, 2018, 07:02:56 PM

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JudyB








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DEVOTIONAL THOUGHT:



From Chris Saunders


As our great friend Tozer reminded me again this morning, the Cross on the hill must become the Cross in our hearts..he is so right!
It is easy to keep Christ at a distance and just pay Him lip service, your friends and acquaintances can believe you to be a believer..when you may in fact not have a personal relationship with Christ at all.
Death to self begins with crucifying the flesh..but don't try this at home as they say!😉
Only the Lord Jesus can kill and make alive..all in an instant..that is the work of the Spirit taking that which is His, and revealing it unto you.
Can these bones live?
Answer..Lord Thou knowest!
And only God knows how to give life to the dead, a man completely dead in sin cannot change his circumstances like making a New Year resolution.
Do you really think that Lazarus was going to rise up and walk out of that tomb?
The man was very, very dead.
Jesus Christ was very, very dead when they laid Him in the tomb, but death could not hold Him for He was the sinless, Lamb of God.
Death had no power over Him..but sin and death have great power over everyone born into this world, and it takes the Son of God working In the Power of the Holy Spirit to raise the walking dead ..mankind.
New Life in Jesus can be yours today, for whosoever will may come, and take the Water of Life, eat, drink, it's all free, the Great Price has been paid..once for all, on that Cross on the Hill of Calvary.
Carpe Diem..choose Life.


JudyB




We Have An Anchor
(Click to hear music)

"An anchor for the soul, firm and secure." Hebrews 6:19


Words: Priscilla J. Owens, 1882.

Music: William J. Kirkpatrick

   

Will your anchor hold in the storms of life,
When the clouds unfold their wings of strife?
When the strong tides lift and the cables strain,
Will your anchor drift, or firm remain?

Refrain

We have an anchor that keeps the soul
Steadfast and sure while the billows roll,
Fastened to the Rock which cannot move,
Grounded firm and deep in the Savior's love.


It is safely moored, 'twill the storm withstand,
For 'tis well secured by the Savior's hand;
And the cables, passed from His heart to mine,
Can defy that blast, thro' strength divine.

Refrain

It will surely hold in the Straits of Fear—
When the breakers have told that the reef is near;
Though the tempest rave and the wild winds blow,
Not an angry wave shall our bark o'erflow.

Refrain

It will firmly hold in the Floods of Death—-
When the waters cold chill our latest breath,
On the rising tide it can never fail,
While our hopes abide within the Veil.

Refrain

When our eyes behold through the gath'ring night
The city of gold, our harbor bright,
We shall anchor fast by the heav'nly shore,
With the storms all past forevermore.

Refrain



JudyB

I'm sorry this is late in posting.  I have had a rough week. just very tiring.

A quick update on Pat.  She has had a few hiccups in her recovery, however today she got the word that there is an opening in a Kitchener rehab facility.  It is for a few weeks.  She is wishing she could be in Guelph however there are no openings there.  So continued prayers are coveted.


Larry Hanna

#3
Hi Everyone. This should be another partly sunny day, no rain in the forecast and a high of 91. 

This afternoon I will make a trip to Target to have the SIM cards changed over to the T-Mobile lines to see if we get better service before we cancel out the Consumer Cellular plan for our cell phones.  There was a T-Mobile store in the shopping center where Pat picked up her shoes yesterday and I checked with them and they said we should have strong service in our location.  I may have to spend $30 a month more to get service through them if what I plan on doing today doesn't work. 

This evening Scott and we don't know who else in terms of Elizabeth and Jennifer, will be out for the evening.  Pat fixed a Jello salad yesterday and the green beans and this afternoon will fix mac and cheese with ham chunks for our dinner tonight.  Yesterday we did eat out at IHOP and had a very good meal. 

Judy, thanks for the update on Pat and so happy to read that they have found a rehab bed available for her even if it is in another town.  I looked it up to see the distance and see that it is only 25 kil. or 15 miles so that seems very reasonable.  Sorry to hear of the hiccups in her recovery.  Thanks for sharing the writing from Chris and the Hymn for this week.  I hope the rest of this week will be less rough for you.

Larry Hanna

#4
Hi Everyone. It looks like we are in for another hot but otherwise nice day here in the South.  I had a very busy day yesterday and this morning will be the same.  I did go to Target yesterday afternoon and had our phone put on the T-Mobile system rather than the AT&T cell phone plan.  I had to wait while and elderly lady was trying to get put on the Cingular Cellular phone plan only to find out her phone was not compatible.  She just couldn't understand why not and the patient man who was helping her explained the situation over and over.  He then helped me and all went well with my phone but when he tried to connect Pat's phone he got a message it was locked, although I had bought it as an unlocked phone.  The AT&T store was near by so took it there only to find out they couldn't help me or won't willing to try (a continuation of the lack of service with AT&T in their stores that I had previously found).  Anyway last evening Scott was able to help me and we got the unlock code by jumping through the hoops on their website and all seems well and I think Pat now has good service. Unfortunately, I hadn't taken the little folders the sim cards came in to get a refund on the two sim from AT&T so this morning left early and was at  Target when they opened and got my refund.  In a little while I will  go pickup my friend and we will go to the Thursday coffee group downtown.   

Carol

We have had electronic hiccups - my old laptop is useless.

Larry:   The Cellular phone company was very cordial helping us to return and pull their sim card which we put into the old & bulky iPhone.  This saves us at least $20 per month.  I was thinking of our first married days when we bought almost nothing - we had to feed the babies and so forth so I could never afford to call parents and friends.

So happy to read the news on Pat and her rehab beginning.  Hooray!  Thanks Be!!!

Weather news showed a tornado in Cheyenne - which is just up the road.  I remember living off base newly married with wind all the time - dust and horses in the field behind our rental house. 
"
Today, a son came for a visit.  Then, a newly widowed friend came with her phone problems, etc. and Don was able to change some things for her.  My sweet neighbor brought her book of "Jesus Always" by Sarah Young.  I have that book and also the one "Jesus Calling" but loaned it out and cannot get them back until fall.  I really like the little reading for the day.  Also, my new bible arrived - mom's old one has such small print that it  wasn't useful. 

Larry Hanna

Hi Everyone. It is going to be another sunny and hot day today getting into the low 90's this afternoon.  I plan on a quiet day at home to rest up for the weekend.  Pat's new iPhone 5 came yesterday afternoon and this morning I put in the SIM card and got it mostly setup.  She is now trying it out.  She held it yesterday and things it may be a fine size for her to hold and  to carry in her pocket. 

Carol, we now have good reception using the T-Mobile cell towers rather than the ATT.  I also remember our early married days with a young family.  There sure wasn't the budget for anything beyond the necessities with perhaps an occasional movie.  A few years ago I bought a new Bible with larger print and a leather binding.  It is a study Bible.  Unfortuantely it is now too heavy to use other than in my office.  We have pew Bibles at Church so don't have to carry one to Church with us. 

Jackie, I am missing seeing your postings. 


Carol

The new bible has a nice print but they did not send the leather binding.  It is heavy too - very nice to read at home.  It is a keeper just for my reading chair because the paper is fragile.  . 

I have been purging the shelves around here and donating or just giving away.  Clearing the clutter.  Very much like clearing our lives too with too many meaningless things. 

Larry:  I hope you get your quiet time and rest.   

Larry Hanna

Hi Everyone.  It is another bright and clear morning but headed into the low 90s this afternoon.  My morning kitchen chores are done and have fixed Pat's breakfast.  I plan on attending a meeting this morning and then stopping at Aldi's for just a few items.  I may pick up something to bring home for our main meal today but Pat hasn't decided yet whether that is what she wants to do.  Plan to rest this afternoon and watch some golf and that is my planned day.  I did spend an hour or so trying to help my SIL with her Cricut craft machine without any luck.  I use a program called Teamviewer that allows me to have access to her computer.  She called later to say she had gotten on the phone with the Cricut tech and after working for an hour with her with no success they said they will send her a new machine as there is something wrong with the one she has.  I guess that explains why we had no success when I was trying to help her. 

Carol, the Bible I referred to yesterday came with the Bible bound in the leather.  I had always wanted a nice Bible so treated myself to it.  I know we could still purge a lot of things and never miss them but it is hard to part with things that have been received as gifts.  My friend and his wife are moving out of their big house into about half the space and will move just what they want and have an estate agent come in and sell the rest.  I did get quiet time yesterday afternoon and some rest.  Unfortunately when I got up I didn't feel very chipper so didn't try to do the walk with the oxygen mask.  I will try to get that in today. 

Janet, welcome home and I hope you have returned feeling rested after a good week of painting. 

Janet

I'm HOOOME!
Thanks, Larry, and I did have a wonderful week painting, but felt really tired when I got home.  I slept good, though, and today I'm fine.  I got four paintings done, all small. Darrel asked why I did such small ones (not my norm) and I said I guess I just felt like painting small this time!  I have taken pictures of them, so will probably post them on FB soon.

It's HOT here!  So thankful for AC!  Especially in the car!

Our pastor's wife's mother passed away this week; it was also Bible School week and so busy.  Lisa (Pastor's wife) is heading up the Guatemala trip, and called a meeting for right after church tomorrow; I'm wondering if she asked someone else to do it; it was about a fund-raising meal we are to have.  Her mom lived in Oklahoma City, and funeral is Monday, so I'm quite sure she won't be here, nor Pastor either.

We will be going to Dallas for the Zurvita Convention Thursday to Sunday this next week.  And I MUST get my Driver's License renewed before then, as My birthday is the 19th and it expires that day!  So I know what I have to do on Monday.  I am praying I can pass the eye test!

Judy, thanks for the update on Pat.  I sure hope she took the available bed in the rehab place!!

Hi Carol!  Sorry about your device problems!  I have several videos in email which are MP3 files (?) and I have no idea how to play them. :(

Jackie, where are you?  Please come back!
My book Rising Above available at JanetDamon.com

Larry Hanna

Hi Everyone.  Today is to be a carbon copy of yesterday weather wise with it being hot into the 90's this afternoon and a slight chance of rain. Pat left me a note to wake her at 7:30, which I did, as she wants to go to Church this morning.  I will go to Sunday School and then come back to the house to pick her up so we can go back to Church.  It is just too much for her to sit through both of these. I did make it to my meeting yesterday, but decided I could wait awhile longer before going to Aldi's.  On the way home I stopped at Wifesaver's and got us each a delicious chicken dinner and this time added a small banana pudding for Pat and a piece of Lemon pie for me, which I had last evening.  We will be eating somewhere after Church this morning before we come home.  The rest of the day will be spent quietly. 

Janet, good to see your posting and know you had a good time even if you came home tired.  I look forward to see your paintings.  Sorry to read of the passing of your pastor's wife's mother. It sounds like you have a busy week ahead.  Hope you don't have any problems getting your driver's license.  An MP3 is not a video but an audio file.  Video files will be MP4's.  Just click on either and the Windows Media Player should load and start to play the file you have selected. 

Janet

Happy Sunday morning to all of you!!  We will have another really hot day, with more to follow, and the wind is already blowing hard.  Ugh.  But I get to say, "This, too, shall pass!"   :)

I guess Lisa is still here, as I got a text message from her last night reminding us of a short meeting right after church.  I'm sure they wil be heading to Oklahoma City right after that!

Larry, glad Pat feels like she will be up to attending church this morning. I know my week doesn't seem right if I don't go to church--sometimes I have trouble remembering what day it is when I miss church.

Time to head out!  See you all later!!  I hope more of you post today, let's not lose this sweet place of fellowship and friendship!!
My book Rising Above available at JanetDamon.com

JudyB

This is now a week later and Pat is still at the hospital.  There have continued to be hiccups.  Now it seems she (when released by the Dr's) will be going home to finish her convalescence there.  This has been quite a ride for Pat, and it looks like the ride will be on going for a bit yet.  Your continued prayer for her is coveted.


Larry Hanna

Hi Everyone.  It is a bright and sunny morning here in South Carolina but we have good chances of storms this afternoon.  Last evening we had a big electrical storm but we didn't get much rain from it.  Pat did go to Church with me yesterday and after the service we went through the drive thru at Arby's and got big sandwiches to bring home for our Sunday main meal.  Nothing is on the schedule or today so hope to finish up the audiobook I am listening to.  I had put one on hold and it became available and was added to my loans several days ago so the clock is ticking on it and am anxious to get to it. 

Janet, It sounds like Lisa is very dedicated to the responsibilities she has accepted.  It has been several weeks since Pat has felt like attending Church.  I seriously doubt she will be going back to Sunday School as that has become just too much for her.  I am like you in that attending Church is just a big part of my life. 

Judy, thanks for the update on Pat.  I had just a few minutes before I read your posting left a Facebook posting on Pat's page showing her with the birthday cake and saying I was happy she was in rehab.  I did go back and left another brief posting acknowledging that she was still in the hospital. 

Carol

Judy:  Thank you for the updates on Pat! It sounds like she will need care at home and perhaps the rehab regimen can be at home as well.  Prayers for Pat and for you and John as well. 

Janet:  We are experiencing hotter than normal temperatures as well as afternoon high winds plus smoke from the western side of the state.  They believe one of the fires was caused by  humans.  either way. 
Two grands left yesterday - they are so sweet and want to help around here.  Talk about energy! 

Don is off to the VA hospital this morning as he is going to help a neighbor navigate the system.  My To Do list is so long - it is hard to start.  I had to put CP on this computer - everything is different with Windows 10.

Larry:  Wifesaver sounds interesting and helpful.  I need to go to Sprouts for more veggies - and do want to make Italian Wedding Soup in the crock pot.  We seem to gravitate to the Saturday night service because it is quiet and peaceful - communion after the sermon and softer music.  Much better for Don's hearing issues. 

Janet

Hello, all!  It's so pleasantly cool here this morning--and still!!  I know the cool won't last, but am so thankful that it always cools off at night!  Still praying for the much-needed rain!

I made more progress on the book the past couple of days.  Have gone back to the beginning and done more changes, etc.  I'm three days before Beth's death in the timeline, so lots of tears, and that's okay.  I'm thankful God gave us tears.

I have allowed time to sneak up on me--must renew my drivers license before the 19th!  And I cannot pass the eye test on the machine at the courthouse!  I went yesterday and license area is closed Mondays but they let me try to read the line required, and I can't.  Not enough light in the machine!  I think I got 3 of the 8 numbers correct.  :(  So they gave me a form for eye doc to fill out; they are only there Wed. and Thurs. (my Dr. just retired) So I called Garden City and got an app't for today at 11:00, and am praying so hard I can renew my license!  I already can't drive after dark, and I really need to be able to drive around our little area for at least a few more years!  So that's on our agenda for today.  Prayers appreciated!

I'm thankful to live in a small town, even though it doesn't have many things we need.  The people are friendly and I know so many of them. As long as Darrel can drive, we are okay.

We went to visit Maxine, my 101 year-old friend, at the Care home on Sunday.  That place is so depressing now!  Since being sold to a for-profit outfit, many changes have been and are being made.  The residents are not at all happy, several have been moved to other facilities.  The ones I talked to were full of complaints.  The physical plant is showing signs of neglect, both building and grounds.  Grass hasn't been mowed, ceilings leaking in places, just over all grubby looking and depressing.  I told Darrel it has gone from being a home for the elderly and disabled, where they were cared for with love, to just a warehouse where people are waiting to die.  It makes me so sad.

Okay!  Get off that topic, Janet!  Today, I GET TO praise my Savior and look for the beauty He created in nature and in people!!  I love you, friends!
My book Rising Above available at JanetDamon.com

Larry Hanna

Hi Everyone.  It looks like today we will finally get a little break in the temperature as it is suppose to only get into the mid-80's with only a slight chance of rain.  Once again yesterday there was rain around us but we didn't get any unless it rained a bit during the night when I was asleep.  We plan on going to Ruby Tuesdays today to take advantage of their $5 salad bar day.  It is usually $10.  Pat placed a big online order with Walmart that we will pick up on the way back home as Walmart is just up the hill from where Ruby Tuesdays is located.  Other than that it should be a quiet day.  I need to order Pat some ink for her printer and a different iPhone Charger as the one that came with her phone appears to be defective.  I also need to get a charger for the car for the iPhones. 

About every time I see the youngsters and observe their energy in always moving and jumping and running I think I wish some of that could be bottles for some of us who could really use it. I expect you will need a day of rest after having the two grands around.  Nice they wanted to be of help.  I saw on the news about the wild fires in the Durango area.  It is helpful of Don to help your neighbor navigate the VA system.  At the beginning somethings seem overwhelming and a guiding hand always helps.  I am sure you will soon adapt to Windows 10.  A couple of suggestions for using Windows 10.  The search bar in the bottom left of the screen is very helpful in finding things in Windows that have been placed in different places.  Also one can usually find a little video on YouTube about how to do most things on the computer.  I have found this most helpful.  I know where our new Sprouts store is located in Augusta and it is easy to get to but doubt we go there as shopping is becoming pretty difficult.  Glad you have found a Worship Service that you both an enjoy and Don can hear.   

Janet, it sounds like you will also be enjoying a cooler day today.  Glad you are making progress on your book and I am sure writing about the last three days of Beth's journey here on Earth will be difficult.  I am also thankful that God gave us tears.  Maybe John would be willing to drive you around if you feel safe with his driving.  It would give him a purpose for some of his days. I don't mean to be meddling.  Sorry to read about what has happened to the care home.  You mentioned looking for the beauty around you and as I look out my office window I can see the beautiful crepe myrtle tree across the street that has burst into bloom. 

Carol

#17
It is a bit cooler mornings this week and that is more normal for Colorado.  Fine and dandy to sleep with windows open.  I checked last night and found that our son & DIL were driving north and stopped for an hour on a Wyoming road - for a cattle drive.  So fun to see - we had that experience several times over the years always great to step back in time and slow down. 

Larry:  It sounds like a deal for the salad special.  I made Wild Rice soup in the crock pot again - it is always different because I just keep on adding stuff.  The drive through downtown is the hardest part of going to the VA.  We try to use the online shopping for grocery pick-up because it would go away if it isn't used enough.  They are notorious for not stocking products that are not flying off the shelves - my pet peeve and I do mention it when anyone cares.  Yes, I have learned a few things on #10 - this new laptop has the keyboard to the left and numbers on the right so my hand wants to stray over and I used to type from the center out. 


color]


JudyB

?So ignorant was I that I did not know there was a God. My Sundays were spent on the streets (of London) in play.? Those were the words of Edward Mote, who rose from an unruly childhood to become a great writer and minister. He composed only one song, but a great song it is, indeed. It has been a favorite of people around the world.

In his early adult years, Mote attended Tottenham Court Road Chapel where he heard sermons by the noted John Hyatt. He soon learned from Hyatt?s sermons that Jesus Christ could take away all the fears of life and give him the peace of heart and mind that he had long desired.

He became a carpenter apprentice and through hard labor and conscientious efforts came to own his own cabinet shop. One day while walking to his work, he began thinking that he should write a hymn. Before he reached his shop he had the chorus:

?On Christ the solid rock I stand;

All other ground is sinking sand.?

Before the day ended, he had four stanzas. The following Sunday, he visited in the home of a friend, a minister, whose wife was at the point of death. During the afternoon, they read from the scriptures and prayed with her. As the preacher looked for a hymnal to sing from, as was his custom, he could find none. Mote reached into his pocket and pulled out his verses and asked if they might be sung to her. And so they were. She seemed to enjoy them very much. Mote was so pleased that she found comfort in his verses, he had 1,000 copies printed for distribution among his friends.

?My hope is built on nothing less

Than Jesus? blood and righteousness.

I dare not trust the sweetest frame,


But wholly lean on Jesus? name.?

Chorus:

?On Christ the solid Rock, I stand;

All other ground is sinking sand,

All other ground is sinking sand.?

Sometime later, Edward Mote became a Baptist preacher. His efforts made it possible for a house of worship to be built for his congregation. They were so grateful they offered to deed the property to him, but he replied, ?I do not want the Chapel, I want only the pulpit; and when I cease to preach Christ, then turn me out of that.?

He served this congregation for more than 20 years, never missing a single Sunday for any cause.


In his 77th year, as he lay on his bed of sickness, he replied, ?I think I am going to heaven. Yes, I am nearing port. The truths I have preached I am now living upon, and they will do to die upon. Ah! The precious blood, which takes away all our sins. It is this, which makes peace with God.?

What a victorious ending of a useful life. He was reared in a godless home, learned an honorable trade and gave it all up to become a preacher. His memory will remain for generations because he took time one day to write a simple gospel song.

?Therefore whosoever heareth

these sayings of mine, and doeth them,

I will liken him unto a wise man,

which built his house upon a rock.?

- Matthew 7:24


Janet

Whew!   What a day!  But, mission accomplished--I got my license renewed!  I cannot tell you how relieved I am.  :)

I'm pretty wiped out, but we need to meet with the three others who are going with us to Dallas on Thursday for the Zurvita convention.  That should only take a few minutes, but I wish I didn't even have to go!

Tom orrow I get to go paint again!!  Yippee!  That's one reason I was determined to get the license problem solved today--trying to keep those Wednesdays free!

Larry, I have asked john to drive me a few times when Darrel was 't here and I needed to go somewhere after dark.  He is a good driver.  We will have him water the plants in the house and the garden for us and feed the cat while we are away (only four days).  He likes to come out and love on the cat, and she enjoys it, too.

I'm gonna stretch out in my recliner for a few minutes!
My book Rising Above available at JanetDamon.com

Larry Hanna

Hi Everyone.  It will be another hot day here after a relatively cooler day yesterday.  We enjoyed the salad bar at Ruby Tuesday's yesterday and did pick up our grocery order.  This morning Pat plans on attending her Gift's Group at the Church and I will take her and go on down to the coffee group at the cafe while I wait for her.  Scott is planning on making our dinner tonight when he gets here.  It will be his specialty Taco Pie and we have plenty of salad mix to go with it.  I had to refilll my medicine boxes this morning and fix Pat's breakfast. 

Carol, it must have seemed like visiting the old West to see and actual cattle drive.  I have only seen them in movies other than the small cattle drive I used to do to take our 20 milk cows to the pasture and then bring them in and that as on foot.  I am sure you will soon adjust to the new keyboard.  It is convenient to have the separate key pad although I often just use the number keys over the regular alpha keys. 

Judy, thanks for posting the hymn and the very interesting and inspiring story of the man who wrote it. 

Janet, sure glad you had success in getting your driver's license.  For how many years is it good until the next renewal?  Glad to read that John is willing to help you when you ask him.  We all need to feel useful and often it is the small things that do the trick.  Glad you will be able to paint today.   

Larry Hanna

Hi Everyone. It is another bright and sunny day but we will be up into the 90's again this afternoon.  This is coffee morning and will pick up my friend on the way.  Either going or coming home I will stop at the Strawberry Stand and get some strawberries and peaches.  Yesterday I did take Pat for her gifts group bi-weekly meeting and while I waited I went to the cafe and spent an hour by myself.  We then stopped at Chick-fil-a for a quick lunch.  It was about 6 last evening when Scott got here and he made our dinner with the Taco Pie and we had a nice visit until after 9:30 and then really had a good nights sleep. 

Carol

There is smoke in the air - one of the mountain fires is caused by human - [almost predictable) and a new one popped up east of us.

Larry:  The computer is making mistakes - not my fault.   ;)

Don is picking up two men here for the monthly breakfast meeting. 

Judy:  Thank you for the music.  Very nice clear voice!



  /b]



JudyB

Well Pat my dear sister is home from hospital at last.  She went home with a bad case of pink eye, however she has medication for that and will be home free soon.  Now for physio to help her get mobile!


Larry Hanna

Hi Everyone.  Another beautiful and sunny morning.  We are expecting to get into the low 90's this afternoon.  Yesterday we had a heat index of 105.  The housekeeper is due here this morning.  After she arrives we will head to Costco for a few items.  Pat is up and dressed and wants to go with me today.  I just hope the riding carts are available. 

Carol, I am sure the smoke in the air is very annoying and probably not very healthy either for those with any type of lung problem.  They had on the news last night a piece about the many fires burning in the West and a number of homes lost and more in danger.  You know my computer keeps making spelling mistakes also--bad computer!  :)

Judy, it must be a relief for Pat to finally be back in her home although I am sure it will be a struggle for her.  She has been done so long that it will probably take quite a bit of therapy to get her very mobile again but hopefully the hip pain will be greatly lessened.  Thanks for letting us know. 


JudyB

Pat is home.  She has a bad case of pink eye, is now on medication for that. 

My blood sugar battle continues, as long as I don't exert myself I am fine, any exertion and the bottom drops out of my glucose.  I sometimes think that diabetics have it easier, they can exercise, walk do whatever and their glucose goes to normal.  I do any of that and I have to have candy with me, and feel like I am always eating...... Well God has a purpose for this as well.

We have beautiful weather here, lots of sun, and more than enough rain.  Another week and John will be working on hay with our neighbor.

Please pray for Chris Saunders and his wife Margit.  She is in a bad way, Stage 4 (I believe) cancer.  She is not wanting to eat or drink.  Please pray.

Have a great weekend folks.


Larry Hanna

Hi Everyone.  It is another beautiful Saturday morning here in South Carolina.  Last evening we had a very nice 20 minute or so shower.  There were more storms in the area but fortunately we only got some lightning, thunder and rain.  Again today it will get into the lower 90's.  The heat here yesterday was very oppressive as the humidity was high and probably will be again today.  I do have to get out to do a little shopping at Aldi's and will likely attend a meeting this morning before doing the shopping.  I plan on watching the last 2 or 3 hours of the third round of the golf tournament.  Pat is going to fix a roast in the Instant Pot so we will be having a tasty dinner tonight.

Judy, so sorry that Pat is having to deal with pink eye as well as all of her other problems as she goes into rehab.  I wonder if the pink eye was going around in the hospital?  It sounds like you are having quite a struggle with the blood sugar.  I don't recall hearing of anyone having such problems if they were not diabetic.  Is there any treatment for this condition?  I sure don't envy John having to work out in the hay field although I guess the big round bales do not require the manual labor that the smaller ones used to where you had to pick them up by hand and load them on a wagon.  So sorry to hear about Margit.  I will add them into my prayers.     

Carol

Tonight, two sons are coming for dinner.  The crock pot is just starting for a long slowo cooking of an old bean casserole.  Don was able to help a friend with her phone and she will save money now.   One of our boys will install a railing on the brick wall at the front door.  It is the north side and we have to be careful - good to have that safety bar either way.  I am forcing myself to clear the clutter.  There are many patterns being packed to give to Salvation Army and and a lot of stuff our children do not want.  Embroidery is becoming too difficult someone else can enjoy a bag of floss. 

Continued prayers for Pat - Judy & John, and Margrit & Chris.  Pat, I hope you are sleeping better in your own bed.

Judy, I have never heard of low-sugar problem not related to Diabetes either.  Could daily injections help at all?  Or, regular timed sugar pills? 

Larry:  We read Aldi's is coming to this area.  It sounds most interesting.  We do like our smaller store called Sprouts for fresh veggies and other things - and I check the discounts at two big grocery stores.  What size pot did Pat get?  It is becoming the popular thing here. 

We live a few miles from one of the busiest commercial airports in the country but today surpasses anything I have heard before - of course, doors are open here in the cooler morning. 





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Larry Hanna

Hi Everyone.  It is an overcast morning and they say the rain has moved out for awhile.  I will go to Sunday School and Church on this Father's Day and then if Pat decides not to attend Church I will stop and get something to bring home for lunch as usual as we seldom cook anything on Sunday's.  I do plan on watching the end of the U. S. Open Golf Tournament this afternoon.  It is an extremely hard course and all of the players seem to be struggling.  I need to try to do the walking in the house as haven't done it the last couple days as just didn't have the energy and I had walked a lot at Aldi's yesterday morning. 

I thought this was a really nice, thoughtful and appropriate Devotional that I got in one of the reading I get each morning.

A Praying Father
(By Henry Bosch)
(Provided by Our Daily Bread, RBC Ministries, 6-15-03 devotional)

"Hear my prayer, O Lord, give ear to my supplications! In Your faithfulness answer me." - Psalm 143:1

A minister concluded his sermon one Sunday by saying, "If there's someone here who wants help in getting to know God, and you would like me to pray for you, please raise your hand." A young man stood up and said, "Please pray for me, sir. The burden of my sin is too heavy to bear."

After the service the minister talked with the man and led him to faith in Jesus. The young man had been wandering around the country for 8 years without contacting his parents, so he decided to write to them and tell them about the change in his life.

Several days later, a reply came from his mother: "My dear son, you must have accepted Jesus Christ at the same hour your father went home to heaven. He had been sick for a long time, and that day he was very restless. He tossed from side to side on his bed, crying out, 'Lord, please save my poor, wandering boy.' I'm sure that one of the reasons you became a Christian was Dad's unceasing intercession."

A praying father will "ask," "seek," and "knock" on behalf of his children, persistently trusting his wise heavenly Father to do what is best (Matthew 7:7-11).

Let's thank God today for faithful fathers who never stop praying for their children.

"We thank You, Lord, for fathers true
Who always spoke to us of You;
Their great concern and tender care
Assured us of their constant prayer."

A praying father reflects the love of our heavenly Father.

Carol, I bet your friend really appreciated Don's help with her phone and a penny saved is a penny earned.  Glad you will be getting the railing as we can never be too careful at our age.  I am planning on getting a ramp put at our garage door to our house and will put a hand rail on the wall and possibly on the open side as well although that is more of a problem.  Pat no longer does embroidery either.  I hope your new Aldi's will be close enough to you so that you can give it a try.  I find we save a lot of money by shopping there.  Pat got the 8 quart Instant Pot and it is pretty large.  We leave it at the end of our island where the post is with the plug in.  It is too heavy to try to store in one of the cabinets.  Getting the original appliance is just the beginning as there are a lot of accessory type pans and equipment you can get to go with it and I think Pat has most of them now.  It is very nice as she was able to make our roast beef dinner last evening in much less time than fixing it in the oven and it was very tender. 

Carol

Larry: Thank you for the devotion.  I don't believe in coincidence and that is a great example of a lesson to be learned. 

I am still struggling with the Windows 10 that for some reason flips my typing to a different space - for instance, I stalled here for a nano second and looked up to find that my typing was going to the first line of this note.  If anyone has an idea of this issue, please let me know - am about to google the weird problem. 









Ruth Ann Bice

Hi, friends,

I have problems with right shoulder -  I can't lift it to comb hair.

So typing is almost impossible. This has been a rough 3 weeks.

Love to all,

Ruth Ann
...his compassions fail not.  They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness.


Larry Hanna

Hi Everyone.  Hi everyone on a day that starts out at 70 degrees with 100% humidity and will get to the mid-90's or above on a sunny day with no chance of rain.  I did water the lawn this morning.  Yesterday at Church was our Associate Pastor's last Sunday with us and he preached a really good sermon.  He is headed to Hampton, SC and will pastor two small churches.  Our new Associate Pastor will start on July 1.  I had a nice quiet afternoon and evening.  Nothing on the schedule for today but sure I will find something to keep me occupied. 

Carol, I think your problem with the cursor moving to a different line where you don't want it is the result of you accidentally touching the little touch pad below the keyboard.  There should be a setting, on my laptop is it Function Key + F8 key that toggles this function on and off.  There is also a setting in the Control Panel where you find printers that should disable this function.  We don't need this function when we use a mouse.  In the past I have also taken a piece of card board or several index cards Scotch taped together and used Scotch tape on placed over the touch pad and this prevented me accidentally grazing it and moving the cursor. 

Ruth Ann, so sorry to see you have a new problem with your right shoulder.  I knew we had been missing your postings for a few days.  I do hope you will get better soon.  Thanks for letting us know.   

Janet

We are back home again!  The Zurvita convention was great; we learned a lot and saw so many receive awards for their success in the business!  We don't really expect that level of advancement, as we are lots older than most; plus we just aren't "hungry" enough. (But don't tell anyone in the company I said that!)  :-X

We are happy to be home, and I'm feeling pressured to do five days worth of work today to get back on track!  Think I can do it?  ;)

Judy, I sincerely think Zeal would help you with your low blood sugar problem.  If you're interested, I can send you some samples, or you can contact me and I can get you in touch with someone who knows a lot more than I do!  So good to hear Pat is home, hope she doesn't try to overdo now that her pain is less.  I know that's always a temptation!

So good to read the posts here, but I'm sad that so many have stopped posting.  If you're looking in, please know that we miss you!

So much to do, so little time!
My book Rising Above available at JanetDamon.com

Carol

Ruth Ann, nice to see your post.  Sorry for your shoulder pain.  Don uses Bio-Freeze and sometimes I make an Epson Salt poultice and tie an old kitchen towel around it for about 15 minutes then he takes a warm shower.  None are perfect but sometimes it will ease the pain. 

More computer and my old E-reader problems - it just gets so frustrating having to fix things all the time.  Larry, we keep on fixing things and it just seems like we are slower every year.  Thank you - it is turned off.  We did that two days ago and it did not stay off - go figure! 

We had a gulley washer yesterday with a lake forming in the ravine.  Tonight, the storm looks like it is heading to the north end of town. 






Larry Hanna

Hi Everyone.  We are headed to 98 degrees with high humidity this afternoon.  I am meeting a friend for lunch around 11:30 this morning and beyond that plan to stay home and in where it is cool the rest of the day.  I just fixed Pat's breakfast and have the other kitchen work done for this morning. 

Janet, I know conventions like you attended really boost up ones enthusiasm.  I sure hope you didn't try to do 5 days worth of work yesterday  as that would be too much.  I second your comment about missing those folks who used to post here or those that may be looking in but haven't joined us in the conversations we have.  Sometimes, like today, I don't have much to write about but post anyway to be sure we keep the discussion active.  We always welcome new folks who very quickly become cyber friends. 

Carol, I relate to your comment about getting tired trying to keep things fixed.  Now Pat has a problem with her printer and I haven't a clue.  I sure wish one could buy a simple printer.  I really like my inexpensive black and white Brother's laser printer as it never fails me and the cartridge makes many copies.  However, it will have to be a color printer as Pat prints copies of a lot of things.  Unfortunately it seems that a gully washer doesn't do too much good but guess it is better than none. 

Carol

It took some time but Don figured out how to Block the spam in my email.  It should be automatically blocked since it is so obvious - being sent in from the UK.  Always something. 

The storm yesterday caused heavy damage with hail north of the city - as everyone say, "There goes our roof insurance bill!  In three years time, we have had two new roofs. 

All of the above thoughts are meaningless - we have other issues to pray about.  It is a "Let Go, Let God" time. 

Larry Hanna

Hi Everyone on this already hot morning and a day headed to a heat index of 105 degrees this afternoon and still a day to go before summer officially begins. Nothing particular on the schedule for today until this evening when Scott will be coming out to spend a few hours with us.  Pat is fixing ribs in the Instant Pot and will fix some of her delicious baked beans to go with some macaroni salad and perhaps a lettuce salad if anyone wants one. We have some ice cream bars in the freezer for dessert so it shouldn't be a hard meal to prepare for this evening.   

Carol, glad the spam in your email has been blocked.  Are you having more hail out your way than usual this year.  Glad it missed you this time.

Jane Walker

Good Morning, once again, from the beautiful south coast of Oregon! :wave:  I happily made it home yesterday evening, after about a week and a half in the "warm" California sunshine.  Actually, just ahead of more triple digit temperatures.  :-[ 

I managed to attend graduations and 8th grade promotions and help celebrate two birthdays for great grandchildren.  Also, got four of my grandkids together for the first time in many years ? we had dinner at Olive Garden Saturday and Dot and her three girls (with accompanying children and boy friend) were able to greet and visit with my grandson David and his two sons, whom they haven't seen since Jean's funeral. They were able to become "friend" on Face Book, so hopefully that means they will stay in touch with one another. 

I had my return trip via train cancelled, and rescheduled, three times until finally I just asked for a refund and came home via Greyhound. Just another adventure, but quite tiring and I was very happy to see Nita waiting as the bus pulled in, and bring me the rest of the way home.  :thumbsup:

Now it's back to basics here ? I need to unpack and do laundry and get hold of the man who is supposed to keep my yard looking decent -- which it does not at the moment! There are a few other chores that have been neglected around here that need my attention, and I'll need to make a grocery run before too long.

I just thought I'd check in and let y'all know I'm back from my sojourn in California and possibly ready to dig in again and get stuff taken care of around here.

I was able to keep up with all your posts and prayer needs while away, because I had access to my granddaughter's computer, so I kept an eye on y'all.   ;)
Life isn't about waiting for the storm to pass .... it's about learning to dance in the rain!

Carol

Jane:  That was very nice of you to keep an eye on us!  What a wonderful visit you had with so many of the family.  That train schedule has a problem - so nice of Nita to pick you up at the station.  I haven't seen her posting in here for quite some time. 

Larry:  Dinner sounds delicious - when Pat is making it!  Hail isn't uncommon here - it was terrible for the crops in other counties this time.  The news showed where one man secured quilts and other things on the roof of his car - still, the front window was cracked.  --Don makes birthday cards for everyone on the printer and they like the personal touch.  I started with an old Hallmark program and he now enjoys making every card/

I am steadily clearing things out of the house - the worst decisions are when I look at fabric and/or mementos from my parents, grandparents - anything from Sweden. 


Janet

#40
I guess I'll go green again today!  But our blue lady is still among the missing--where are you, Jackie?  Come on back!
Jane!  Good to have you back--welcome home!  Sounds as if your trip/visit was really nice, but I know it always feels good to get back home, whether we have been away for only a few days or much longer.  Glad you stayed up with us, and thanks for praying!

Yesterday was my birthday!!   :) :thumbsup:  I get to start a whole new year, and see if I can make it the best one so far!  8)  I'm very thankful to still be well and strong as I begin my 78th year.  Abby texted me yesterday and asked how old I am, I answered 110; she said "Cool!"  :lol:

I enjoyed my painting class again today.  Did another WC still life, this time of an old coal bucket with some flowers and an American flag.  Another lady and I found it (the actual item, I mean) in the "antiques" side of the place where we paint.  She did hers horizontally; I did mine vertically.  They look very different from the other! We did have permission to borrow it for a few hours; then we put it back!

Carol, I was thinking about you when we saw all that hail up your way on TV.  We finally got a nice rain of 1.2 inches last night!!  Scott City, about80 miles North had over 8 inches and is flooded!  And Falfurious, Texas, near where Darrel's brother lived, got 14 inches!   :o

The scrapbooking gals I meet with at the library are "celebrating me" tomorrow with a little birthday party!  So I get to enjoy "my" day even longer!  ^-^

I'm headed to bed now.  G'night!
My book Rising Above available at JanetDamon.com

Larry Hanna

Hi Everyone.  It is going to be another very hot day.  I have already watered my lawn this morning.  I had thought I had set it to automatic but obviously hadn't so I had to manually set it this morning.  My main activity will be to pick up my friend and we will go to coffee for an hour.  I don't have any other errands to take care of this morning.  I think we may go out to eat for our main meal today but it will depend on how Pat is feeling this morning.  Scott was out for awhile but was so weary from working extra long hours that he didn't stay very long after our dinner.  The ribs and the rest of the meal were very tasty.  It was just the three of us for dinner.  We did get to speak to the youngest and the oldest of our great grandchildren on the phone. 

Jane, welcome home.  It sounds like you avoided the hot temperatures down in the area you were visiting.  I am sure getting to have your four grandkids together will remain a highlight of your trip. Sure glad you checked in to let us know you are safely home.  Sometimes we need an eye kept on us!! :)

Carol, yes Pat made the dinner.  She put the baked bean casserole together in the morning (I had set everything out for her) and the macaroni salad was made a couple of days ago but she added more eggs and mayo to it as it had become a bit dry.  The ribs came out so fall off the bone tender from the Instant Pot.  She waited until Scott got her to fix them.  He took all of the left overs home with him.  He still loves his mother's cooking as do I.  I used to make our birthday and other cards we sent but haven't done that for a long time.  We also have the old Hallmark program as well as the old American Greeting card software. 

Janet, Happy Birthday.  I was shocked to read elsewhere that it was and you hadn't mentioned it.  I rely on someone mentioning a birthday as don't follow or have a list.  You are about 8 months older than I am.  Do you wonder sometimes where the years have gone.  I know you will enjoy your special little party at the scrapbooking group.  I am always thankful to have been given another year to live.  I bet your painting was beautiful.  Are you going to post it on Facebook? I sure wouldn't want to get 8 or 14 inches of rain at one time. 

Janet

Good morning!  I have a to do list today, and as soon as I post this, I'm going to town and start on it!

Larry, I did remember that I'm a few months older than you.  But Pat Scott Halbach is 9 days older than me!!  ;D  We always joke about that.  I sure miss her being able to post.  I hope Judy gives us another update soon.

Yes, I posted the new WC on FB, but it is sideways; I didn't get it edited quick enough.  So you will have to exercise your neck to see it right!   ;)

Ruth Ann, I hope your shoulder pain is much relieved by now.  God bless you.

Janice, how are you doing?  I hope your MD is better and your body pain is less.   <3

Time to go get busy on that list!  And if I have a little time, will get back to work on the book.
I got the laundry all done already except for taking out the last load from the dryer and getting it processed.

See you later!
My book Rising Above available at JanetDamon.com

Jacqueline

Janet...
...I am here, I am ok, thank you for missing me... :wave:
" there is no such thing as an ending, only a place where you leave the story "
~ Muriel Donnelly

Jacqueline

" there is no such thing as an ending, only a place where you leave the story "
~ Muriel Donnelly

Janet

Jackie, that is beautiful!  Thank you so much!
My book Rising Above available at JanetDamon.com

Carol

Janet:  Belated happy birthday! 

Jackie:  Nice to see you posting.

Every time I walk downstairs, I try to bring up one more thing to donate.  The problem with having a basement is there is too much room to stash everything - just in case someone wants it later.  As for weather - it seems to be looking milder in the afternoons now. 

Larry Hanna

Hi Everyone.  It is another bright and sunny morning that started out at 75 degrees and headed into the high 90's. 

When I got up this morning I worked on Pat's printer and it seems to be printing OK now.  It kept telling me I didn't have a real HP print cartridge in for the yellow color but I did.  I had another one so put it in and after turning the printer off and back on it finally decided to print out the test page I had created. I am still interested in getting the color laser printer but will put that on hold for the time being.  I have nothing particular on my schedule for today other than to fix Pat's breakfast when she gets up. 

We did not go out to eat yesterday so perhaps may do so today.  We still had a couple of the stuffed peppers from Costco in the freezer so we had that with a salad of cottage cheese and pineapple and topped it off with an ice cream bar.  It was very tasty and very easy to prepare. 

I have enjoyed looking at the cam sites this morning and those little kittens were very active and so cute.  I sent that link to Pat and the kids.  The bears were not at the falls this morning and the eagles were not active and it was a bit difficult telling them from the tree trunk and branches.  I will check on them later. 

Janet, I also miss seeing Pat's postings here and sure hope she soon will feel up to joining us occasionally if not more often.  I keep praying for her recovery to the point that she can find some enjoyment in her days.  I will check out your painting on Facebook after I finish with the discussions this morning.  I can still turn my head to the side so sure I will be able to view it without a problem. 

Jackie, sure good to see your posting yesterday and that was a beautiful graphic you created to wish Janet a happy birthday.  You are very talented.

Carol, after having a couple of basements I didn't want anymore.  Of course, now we have a large attic storage space but at least is isn't a full as the basements used to be. I guess we didn't use to think about having to dispose of the things we stashed away in case they were needed.  Fortunately moving numerous times over the years helped us as we always did some decluttering before we moved.  Glad you are getting some cooler weather.

Janet

Larry and Carol, I heard years ago that we should all move every ten years or so, just to get rid of the excess "stuff!"  We haven't done that, so we sure have a LOT of stuff we need to get rid of, some way!  I don't want the kids to have the problem of disposing of it when we go home to heaven!

I went to the hospital yesterday for lab work and an EKG in preparation for a little surgery next Friday.  The surgeon will remove two masses from my right leg, below the knee.  It's out patient surgery, and I don't expect to be incapacitated, maybe have to take it easy for a few days.  Imagine that!  :)  I will have two incisions about two inches long.  There are also some of these below my left ankle; will see how this goes before getting them removed.  She's almost sure they won't be shown to be malignant, but not 100% sure until lab reports come back.  Prayers appreciated, as always.  :)

I want to do a couple finishing touches on two watercolors from last week, then will take photos and post on FB.  Thanks for looking and commenting, Larry!

I have a hair appointment in a little while; tonight will meet with the others going on the Guatemala mission to prep food for the fund raising dinner we are doing on Sunday.  Darrel marinated 4 pounds of chicken breast since yesterday and has already grilled them this morning.  It's a chipotle style dinner.  Sounds really good!  And many hands make light work!

Must go, talk to you later!
My book Rising Above available at JanetDamon.com

Carol

Don is helping our friend with her phone service.  I am about to make the  sauce for white asparagus for our mostly vegetable meal tonight.  There are a few meatballs in gravy left over from last night.  Leftovers - always so easy.  We took a trunk load to the Salvation Army and stopped at the store for vegetables. 

Not our imagination but since being away for six plus months, the traffic seems almost tripled.  No more nice manners - We are being hounded to sell the house and move - where???  Today, a flyer came in the mail and it states we can buy marijuana and have it mailed to the house.  This is over the top insulting to our community and with all the illegal issues of drug use while driving etc., just makes a lot of us mad. 

Janet:  We did move many times - always for the location of the job.  It didn't help, even though I am not a shopper - So nice of your group to aid the people in need. 


Larry Hanna

Hi Everyone.  This Saturday is starting out overcast and at 70 degrees.  It will be in the 90's again this afternoon.  Last evening late we did get a little rain shower.  The high this afternoon will be 94 degrees and I expect to be inside where it is cool when that happens.  Pat and I went to the Dollar Tree and then to Dairy Queen for our main meal of the day.  She used the transport chair as a rollator while at Dollar Tree and could sit down and look at the card.  There was only one problem and that was she didn't realize there were brakes on the chair so when she was sitting it in it kept moving backwards.  I just checked as my memory was it does have breaks.  So next time perhaps that won't be a problem for her.  I plan on attending a meeting this morning and will also stop at the Post Office for a roll of stamps that Pat needs for her Sunday School class card ministry.  Later this afternoon I will tune in to the PGA Golf Tournament and that will be it for today. 

Janet, I have the same concern about the stuff we have either when we can no longer live in this house or we are gone.  However, I know that it will all work out so I don't really worry about it.  Glad to see your surgery is out patient and hope you will experience a quick recovery and the tests will be negative.  I look forward to seeing your two new paintings.  Our mission team that went to Guatemala got there when the volcano had erupted and it prevented them from landing at the airport where they expected to land and had to go to another and wait a few hours and then were flown back to the original airport.  They made it to the mission site and now are safely back home as is the mission team that went to Peru on the medical mission.  This time that team had a dentist and they saw over 650 patients in the few days they were there.  Were the chicken breasts for the fund raising dinner on Sunday? 

Carol, congrats on your delivery to the Salvation Army.  I have about three bags of clothes to take to our Community Ministries Thrift Store that have accumulated over time.  I think I will try to do that next week or could do it today on my way home from downtown.  I picked up a brochure that is available on the house being sold across the street and the ad indicated it was under contract.  The house prices here are definitely going up.  It sounds like the marijuana situation is out of hand.  I have to wonder how these people that use the drug all the time can hold a job and they sure must not be pleasant to be around.  I read that Canada will soon make it legal to use.   

Janet

I'm using blue again today--it's always been my favorite!

Larry, yes, the chicken breasts are for the dinner.  They were to be sliced, but Darrel misunderstood and had half of them diced when I got home from errands.  So he sliced the rest.  Lisa said it doesn't matter, so all is well.  ;)  They sure smelled good, and I snitched a couple little bits and they taste very good, too!

Yesterday I stayed on task all day!  And I got a lot done, which is always a good feeling.
I even made the final touches on the watercolors, and will have Tracy scan them in for making cards.  Fun to use my own paintings on cards, and the insides are blank, so can use for any occasion.  I mailed four, some were anniversaries, some birthdays.  The first batch I got had all started out as cards, but she can scan in larger pieces, up to 9x12 and still use for cards.  That's what these two I just finished are.  Okay!  TMI!  :-X

Carol, I just couldn't live in such congested areas!  I would be literally housebound, as I'm not even comfortable driving in Amarillo, and that's a small city without too much traffic.  And I think this marijuana thing is just horrible!  I could accept its medical use, but not just all out drug use; without even good limits as to age!  Darrel and I were talking about stuff and we agree that we're both glad we are as old as we are!  And yes, I do try to stay positive--but these things do not make it easy!  Pray, pray, pray!!

I really need (WE) really need to start getting rid of stuff!  We have several buildings full of things.  Much is useful; I'm sure lots is not!  Well, all things in their time, I guess.

Hey, everybody!!  Come in and Join Larry, Carol and me!  We want to hear what you're up to! ;) :D
My book Rising Above available at JanetDamon.com

Marilyn

I got home home on the 17th and have just been running crazy ever since getting caught up with all I needed to get done. Happy belated Birthday Janet. I am going to book our next year's trip to Kauai Hawaii for Late June or early July. I am hoping to have Gilbert and Sonja go along with us. I am trying to make some memories with Keith before the dementia gets  too far along for him to be able to go. If he can't go  neither can I.   I am planning  a few things that I want to do with him. and go places I've never been.
"Good people take care of their animals, but even the kindest acts of the wicked are cruel" Prov. 12:10
Click for North Bend, Oregon Forecast" border="0" height="100" width="150        My Website

Larry Hanna

Hi Everyone.  We are headed to a 99 degree day with an even higher heat index.  The first thing I did this morning after getting dressed for Church was to make a quick trip to Walmart for a few items we were out of.  I am going to go to Sunday School and Church.  Yesterday Pat said she would like to go to Church today but hasn't made a final decision yet. I told her that I will go through a drive thru to pick up something for our lunch so I didn't to to make another trip in the heat as getting in the car after church will be enough.  This is going to be plenty for today.  I still have to make her breakfast and empty the dish washer but she said she wasn't in a hurry for her breakfast and that she wanted me to sit down and eat my breakfast and rest a little bit. 

Janet, your painting would make beautiful and very nice cards.  If offered the chance to be young again I think I would decline.  It has been quite a journey but sure wouldn't want to have to take it again. 

Marilyne, a trip to Hawaii sounds very nice.  We never made it to Hawaii or anywhere overseas.

Carol

A friend is picking me up for the 7:30 AM service today - Don can't understand much of any sermon anymore so he has opted out.  We used to always go to this service and I was awake at 5:30 AM so it must be that I should be going early again. 

Our oldest son will be at the airport tonight - we will wait in the cell phone calling area and pick him up.  he has a doctor's appointment in the morning and we will take him downtown. 

Yesterday, my friend and I went to the craft store and she ordered frames for two of her husband's paintings.  He is the good friend who passed last November - he took up painting and did some very nice work.  We called him Grandpa Moses.  She is doing very well - a faithful friend!

Marilyn:  Best to you on caring for your husband. 

Carol

Janet:  When do you have your knee area surgery.  Prayers  Yes, do take it easy - feet up and good reading.  Listen to all the music you like. 

We have been waiting all afternoon for a plane from Missoula - we are still at home, and the messages of delays keep coming.  I meant to tell you - there will be a huge water shortage this year.  A fourth grader could have figured that out. 

Janet

Carol, my surgery is to be Friday.  When I called to ask what time I was told they will call me on Thursday between 3 and 4 to assign me a time as they don't know farther ahead when an OR will be available.

We worked hard yesterday afternoon helping prepare the food for today's chipotle style dinner. Darrel and I chopped lots of tomatoes; then I did all the slippery and hard to work with mangoes and juiced limes.  Not the things I would have chosen, but all needed to be done. I had severe leg pain most of the night, so got very little sleep.  This morning we were there at 8, and helped finish what had to be done today; then after church we carried ice, filled all the cups with ice tea or water, etc.  Everyone worked equally hard.  So much work!  It was free will offering, and we made around $1200.00.  And that was with a really low attendance today, as so many are gone on vacations, etc.  Then, of course, there was all the cleanup afterward!  Whew!

Marilyn, you will love Hawaii!!  But I'm wondering why you don't plan to go in the Winter? It's very nice there then.  I didn't get to go to Kauai when I went so have wanted to go back, but there are so many wonderful places to go and to see!  I do hope you can go asap, to make memories with Keith.

I've been sitting here ever since we got home from church, and I've got to get off!!  My legs hurt!  Been trying to sort out darn Facebook.  >:(  Not much luck there, either!

See you tomorrow!
My book Rising Above available at JanetDamon.com

Marilyn

#57
Janet the time of year we go depends on the availability of the timeshare condos. In order to get 7 or 8 days in a row is the m ain reason for June or july. I would love to go during the winter but unfortunately that would have had to be booked last year. Praying for your surgery. I go to the Ortho Dr. on July 3 to make the arrangements for the MRI on my left know.  Hopefully it won't be surgery by arthroscopy

I have my Mammo on the 9th and bone scan on the 11th I see my eye Dr  Tuesday. It is every 6 months n ow for the eye dr.
"Good people take care of their animals, but even the kindest acts of the wicked are cruel" Prov. 12:10
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Larry Hanna

Hi Everyone.  We are headed for another very hot day.  Last night a heavy thunderstorm hit us and we got about an inch of much needed rain.  I had just started by sprinkler system when the rain started so went into the garage and turned the sprinklers off.  We may see similar storms develop in the next day or so.  It rained for about two hours and the lightning and thunder continued through all that time.  I have nothing planned for today so will just take things easy as am feeling the results of a pretty busy weekend, especially yesterday morning. 

Carol, nice to see you got to attend the early service with your friend.  Those cell phone calling areas at airports are very nice.  Atlanta has a similar lot as I expect a lot of airports do.  I hope your trip to the airport wasn't too bad.  Did he come into the big Denver airport?  Maybe he will do the driving to the downtown appointment this morning so you don't have to deal with that heavy traffic.  I don't envy you the water shortage your area faces this year.  We had one in the Atlanta area for several years and I still am very cautious when I let the faucet run and try to avoid wasting any water. 

Janet, it sounds like you did a yeoman job for your after Church dinner.  We had a big attendance at our Sunday School but a low attendance at our Church service. 

Marilyn, does the temperature vary at lot by season in Hawaii?  How many hours does it take to fly from Oregon to Hawaii?  It sounds like you will be keeping the doctors busy in July.

Marilyn

#59
Larry The temp doesn't vary that much according to google. the high is 81? low 69?. I just booked us for June 1-June8 next year. I was told by one of Keith's boys it took them 4.5 hrs. But when I checked it says 5.5 on the internet. We will probable fly from here in N orth bend to San francisco then on to Hawaii. i  will check all that later. The best time to buy tickets is 54 days prior to flight.

Still overcast here this morning. but I have already taken Freckles for a walk,.
"Good people take care of their animals, but even the kindest acts of the wicked are cruel" Prov. 12:10
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Janice

Hello from The Land of Enchantment!  (NickName for New Mexico). I have tried to post several times but failed.  I hope all of you are doing well today.
I have to go back to Amarillo Wednesday for eye doctor appt again.  Will this ever end? 😃

Some of you have been telling about trips outside the USA....interesting.  My few
trips include Canada, Mexico and England.  We flew to London the day our grand daughter was born (late at night) Son-in-Law picked us up at the London airport in the afternoon. He said Elaine ( our dtr) was checked in at the hospital which served the Air Force members at Lakenheath, north of London.  When we returned up there, still no baby.  Several hours later Sara Janice was born. This is the same Sara who now works at the local library, the library that was shot up by a young man, high school age, a few months ago. She witnessed it.  So thankful he did not shoot at her.
My portable phone just rang, I keep one beside my chair within reach.  If the caller is unknown I don't answer it. 

My 2 step-sons came and did some pruning of trees one day last week.  One lives in Amarillo, the other one in Georgetown (wherever that is?) Texas anyway.  They are so good to me!  And my trees look ever so much better.  One of them had 2 branches that drooped down due to the weight...Elaine and I both had bumped our head on that droopy branch. I also have one step-dtr who lives near Dallas.  These 3 are so precious to me!  I got to help raise them, their mother had died young.  My own son died a few years ago, from a stroke.  He was right at age 50,
almost.




This is the day the Lord has made, we will rejoice and be glad in it. Â  Ps 118:24

Janet

My goodness, is it STILL Monday?  This day feels two days long already and it's only four o'clock!  Darrel had to go to Garden City to have the new lenses put into his glasses, and I got some wildflowers (Well, they only look like it) really silk ones, at Hobby Lobby, then home again.  John was here, so I visited with him a little.  He's all excited about finding some of our family members as he is into ancestry search.  He is trying to find Beth's ancestors, to merge with his family...or something.  Good luck to him!  ;)

Beth's friend Becki went on an NF walk, and to honor Beth, carried Beth's picture, a purple rose and had a purple flower painted on her face.  How sweet is that?

I forgot to tell you why I bought those flowers--I want to use them in still-life setups, for painting.  I can keep changing them any time I want.  Boy!  Those things are expensive!
I was shocked!!  :o

Janice, how great to see a post from you!  Hope your eyes are improving!  I got my driver's license in the mail today!!  Yea!! :excited:

Larry, I love it when I have a day that doesn't require me to do anything much!  But I won't have one of those this week!

Marilyn, not sure I understand what you're doing about Hawaii.  That doesn't matter-I just wish you a wonderful time!  ;)

I need to work on the book a little, and also to contact some of my Zurvita people.  See you later!
My book Rising Above available at JanetDamon.com

Marilyn

#62
Janet  we are traveling to Kauai Hawaii in June of next year for our vacation. It is my dream vacation. Keith was there 40 years ago, I haven't   been to a lot of places. Hawaii  and an Alaskan cruise is on my bucket list. I want to do these things with Keith while he is still able to go places.  I am trying to make some great memories for us. I don't know how much he will remember  in a year but I am trying. It makes me sad to think about how much or how little he will remember, He isn't progressing very fast at this time. I am taking him to Vancouver next month to be with his sons and the grands so the kiddoes will remember their grandpa Keith while he is mostly OK.

We own a timeshare so there are many places we can go.
"Good people take care of their animals, but even the kindest acts of the wicked are cruel" Prov. 12:10
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Janet

Thanks, Marilyn.  "We own a timeshare" was the missing piece of information--now I understand.  Where is your timeshare?  I assume this is a swap deal?
My book Rising Above available at JanetDamon.com

Larry Hanna

Hi Everyone on a day that starts at 80 degrees and headed to the mid-90's.  Once again last night we had popup storms around the area.  We got maybe a quarter of an inch of rain as the storm didn't stay around very long.  I guess this is the time of the year for these storms. 

Yesterday was really at down day and hoping to have more energy today.  I hate to admit it but I became a bit grouchy and that is not me.  I went to bed at 8 pm last night and had a good nights sleep.  I have the kitchen chores done except to fix Pat's breakfast when she arises.  Today is the run-off day for the Primary elections.  I hope to go vote as the polling place isn't very far from me at an elementary school.  The main race is the governor's race.  We had a good dinner last night as Pat had put together a meat loaf and we had some packaged steamer potatoes and some steamer white sweet corn and that made a good meal.  We will be using more of the frozen vegetables that come in the steamer bags as it made a quick and easy dish that is ready in the microwave in a few minutes.  Tonight may well be a TV dinner night as we have a couple in the freezer or a salad night.  The yard people are here bright and early this morning.  I just went out and told the young man doing the edging to skip our backyard this week. 

Marilyn, it sounds like it doesn't make much difference what time of year you visit Hawaii.  A 5 hour plane ride is tiring.  At least you will have a week to rest up when you get there before doing the long ride home.  I had made a whirlwind trip from Atlanta to San Francisco a few years ago and I was beat when I got home and decided never again would I take such a long flight.  Your time share will certainly help on the cost of the trip. 

Janice, I was happy to see you were able to post yesterday.  I hope you trip to Amarillo goes well tomorrow.  I have never been overseas and made only brief visits across the border into Canada and Mexico many years ago.  It was nice you could be there when your granddaughter was born.  It sounds like your step-sons love you a lot and enjoy helping you with things like your trees. 

Janet, I bet you picked out some very beautiful silk flowers.  We have some in our house and they always are pleasant to view.  I need to get two artificial ferns for two small planters that sit in the alcove to our front door. When we moved here the builder had put in to tiny little trees and they didn't survive and so the container have been empty for a couple of years.  Nice to see that John has found something to interest him in doing the ancestry searching.  I remember you mentioning that Becki had been good to visit Beth over the years.  It was nice of her to participate in the NF walk.  It doesn't seem you ever find a day when you don't have a lot to do.  :)

Janet

Larry, I was hoping that today would be one of those "less busy" days, but it certainly hasn't started out that way!  We did get back to the gym, though, that is a big plus!!  When I took my two younger girls to Hawaii many years ago, the flight from California was 8 hours!  And that was following the flight from Denver first.  We had a place to stay once we got there, so that really helped with the $$ part.  ;)

Our county Fair is coming up fast!  I'm still superintendent of the Art Department, so that means working quite a few hours; we are having a commercial booth for Zeal (more hours) and an outdoor "fun" booth for the Guatemala Mission trip (even more hours!)  Makes me tired just thinking about it!  I'll need FOUR Zeals a day!  :D 8)  There are other people helping with both the booths, but we wonder how much help we will get with the Zeal one.   :-\

Larry, I hope your pep returns to your step today!  I also tend to get grouchy when I'm over tired.  I try not to, and when I notice I am, I am now quick to apologize and get a handle on it.  Sorry to say, I wasn't always good about that!

I have much still to do, stuff I dislike doing, so I'd best get it over and done with!!
My book Rising Above available at JanetDamon.com

Marilyn

Our timeshare is with Vacation Internationale there are many places we can go, not an exchange although we do have that option but VI own many places we can chose from for just the regular maintenance fee, and $20 booking fee So I paid the 20 bucks and booked Pono Ka'i resort.
"Good people take care of their animals, but even the kindest acts of the wicked are cruel" Prov. 12:10
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Larry Hanna

Hi Everyone.  It is a cloudy morning and about 75 degrees but only headed up to about 90 this afternoon.  We had another popup storm last evening and it looks like we had about 1/2 inch of rain.  There must have been significant wind as my artificial flowers were blown out of their ceramic vase on the front porch clear over to the side of the house and halfway back between the houses.  I was able to get them and they don't seem to be any worse for wear.  We have a chance for more rain today.  I have a light schedule today and the only thing planned is to meet Jennifer and Elizabeth at IHOB for our evening meal and then they will come out to the house for a little while.  Scott is working tonight as had traded his day off with one of the other employees and then he will have Sunday off.  While yesterday was another down day for me I woke up this morning feeling refreshed and ready to take on the day. 

Janet, it sounds like you will have your hands full at the county Fair.  I hope others will help you with your Zeal booth.  Happy to say I was grouchy yesterday and it is very unusual for me to be so but when I feel so tired things seem to irritate me more than normal.  I try to do the stuff I dislike doing first so I don't have to think about it. 

Marilyne, when we had our timeshare for 20 years we exchanged our week and went to other destinations three or four times.  Glad you are able to utilize the benefit of the time share while Keith is still able to travel and enjoy it.  I looked at the website for that resort and it looks beautiful and like it would be very restful with very nice accommodations.   

Janet

Larry, so happy to read that you woke feeling refreshed today!
I really dislike feeling cranky and out of sorts, and am thankful that doesn't happen too often. Our temperature was 63 when I got up, headed up to 103 today!   :P  I will surely need to put up the folding shade in the windshield of the car today while I'm at my painting class!  Even then, you could bake something inside the car!  Ugh.  But I'm very thankful we haven't had any of the damaging weather being experienced in so many areas of our country!  :)

We had a timeshare in Mexico for a few years; the maintenance fees per year were more than we could rent a place; so we finally abandoned it.  Now they have services to help you get out of them without losing your money; I've been hearing the ads for them; I think they call it "Timeshare Exit." I hope you get the full benefit of yours, Marilyn!

I worked on the book yesterday, am praying for fresh inspiration as to how to finish it.
I want it to be inspiring, not depressing.  In telling the story of Beth's life, there is much good; how courageous, patient, good natured and uncomplaining she was, etc. in spite of all her pain, problems and disability.  I'm finding it to be sort of a balancing act, and I so want it to give glory to God, for only He could do what He did for her, and for me, as we walked that road together.

I wish you all a wonderful day!  I know I will enjoy this day, as I am going to be painting with friends!!  :thumbsup: <3
My book Rising Above available at JanetDamon.com

Liz

Hello again from a cool island.  We seem to have one day of sun and many of cloud and rain.  Sure does help the gardens and they stay green!

I am feelin sad and lost as we had to finally put our Squeek (cat) to sleep on Monday.  She had been doing well until the last few days and then did not want to eat...I have been getting up every 3 hrs. or so during the night on a regular basis and thus fed, cleaned the box and gave fresh water, many times during the day and night.  Have done this for months and she seemed to still thrive!  We were so lucky to have her for 22 yrs.  But it was time to let go and she knew it....went into the carrier without being prompted.  We have such a caring Vet Clinic and they took gentle care of her as with Misty and BillyBob.  I could not go along this time.....Amanda went with Wendy.  It was time to say goodbye.

Amanda is moving as her place is being taken over by a relative of the owner.  So she will no longer be 5 min. away....going to be living in Langford (Victoria) and at least that will help with driving and gas as no longer will have to travel that dangerous Malahat.  Rents are so high here on  the island.  It boggles the mind!!

At age 85 my life is not very exciting.  Made 4 batches of Strawberry Jam last week.  We have a great new Farmer's Market that opened a short distance away and there berries are really great.  Plan to make Peach and Blueberry Jam shortly.  Will not likely be able to do this next year...?

I wanted to see your paintings Janet and so joined Facebook....do not know how to view them!  I'm not a fan of Facebook but thought it might be nice to check on a few things.  Do not plan to stay a member for very long.  I had my glasses adjusted today and plan to do some acrylics in a few days.  Prepared the canvas with Gesso so good to go...?.

Birds and Squirrels are sadly missing in the numbers from last year.  So much change every where.  The island has lost the charm it once had.  Now with pot becoming legal, it will only get worse.  I am so grateful for my family and even though my income is very modest, my blessings are many. 

Ralph had to go into the hospital by ambulance a few days ago.  He has a kidney stone and it is so painful.  I had one years ago so speak from experience.  They give medication, pain killers and send the patient home to go it alone now.  The med. is supposed to help dissolve the stone.  He has had a bad time but the pain is getting less now.  I ended up getting infected and spending a month in hospital and almost dying.  Do not want a repeat.

This is turning into a novel.  Time to close.  Take care everyone and you will enjoy Hawaii Marilyn.  I went 30 yrs. ago and it is so lovely. 

God Bless,
Liz
CHANGE NOT THY FAITH WITH CHANGING TIMES

Janet

Liz!  How lovely to see a post from you!  Sorry about Squeek, felt I knew her since you've been telling us her antics for years now.  For sure, she had a good, and long, life!

When you are on Facebook, just type my name (or anyone you want to find) in the search bar, and their page should pop up!  And that's about as 'techy' as I get!  8)  And since you may be looking in soon, I shall go take photos of the watercolors I did today and post them!  They're not great, but I'm having so much fun, and I am improving!  Today we each chose and set up our own still life from which we painted. Oh!  Some of the others' work is on my page, too, as Tracy put them on there.

It's great to sort of 'catch up' with you here, and may I wish you many blessings in the coming days?   <3
My book Rising Above available at JanetDamon.com

Larry Hanna

Hi Everyone.  For the 4th night in a row we had a pretty good storm last evening.  My rain gauge shows over 1/2 inch more of rain.  It is only suppose to get to 90 this afternoon and we have more possibilities of thunderstorms today.  I will go to coffee a little later this morning and run by the Community Thrift Store and food bank to drop off three bags of clothing.  I think that will be it for today. 

Janet, I hated to see yesterday morning end as I was feeling so well.  However, this morning am not so peppy but otherwise OK.  That is quite a swing in temperatures in one day you were to have yesterday.  I use those folding shades in our car all summer and they really help and we usually crack open our front car windows to let the heat escape.  I am sure your book will be uplifting and you did that very well in your first book. 

Liz, sorry to hear that you lost your beloved Squeek. It sounds like no one could have given her better care.  We know it is time to say goodbye but still very difficult.  I am sure you will miss seeing Amada as often.  How far away from you all will she be living.  I bet you will enjoy the jam you have and plan to make in the months ahead when the fruit is out of season.  I have never had a kidney stone buy my son has had several and now my granddaughter also has them.  Thanks for stopping by and sharing with us yesterday.   

Carol

Record setting heat expected today.  We are so fortunate to have air conditioning.  Remembering having two summer babies here without any air or fan - it was normal to have cool evenings and mornings but now that has even changed.  July is usually monsoon and everyone should be praying for rain.

One son is staying with us for at least this one week and most likely will stay into next week - not sure of the schedule.  He is going through extensive tests at Jewish hospital - they specialize in lung - heart work.  I was frozen in place for about two days and but now back to a normal heartbeat - Let Go. :Let God  People come from around the world - the care is tops of the nation and we are so fortunate to have it right here. 

Daughter and family are home from a lot of countries - they did train and rental car and are just exhausted.  After 5 interviews that went really well - she is not getting the job she is well qualified for and so the job hunt begins.  Granddaughter is going to stay for school in London for a semester & study Economics - same as her mother. 

Larry:  An Instant Pot arrives today - I hope I don't take the lid off too soon as I did that years ago on a pressure cooker.  I hope I do it justice and don't make mistakes - will read the directions first - I promise! 

Liz:  Losing a beloved pet - you can treasure the years of fun and I know you will miss your pal. 
So much to be thankful for.......

Janet:  Your art projects have been a good thing for you - keep on enjoying. 

Janet

Carol, parenting is the one job that is never finished!  Prayers for your son's health and daughter's work. 

I am to check in at the surgery center in Garden City at 8:00 AM; surgery supposed to be at 9:00, and they have reserved an hour and a half for the procedure.  I just hope things move near schedule; don't want to be there all day!

Judy, we'd sure like another report on Pat, please!

Yes, Carol, I am getting so much joy from my artwork again.  Thanking God for that oasis of peace in my week(s).  Just such a pleasant time.

I'm sleepy, so why not go to bed?  Can't think of any reason!  G'Night!
My book Rising Above available at JanetDamon.com

Carol

It is almost 80 degrees here this morning - there is a fire at Grand Lake.  Evacuations yesterday - we are concerned about a cabin & garage.  We do hope they catch the culprit who flew a drone into the area and it stopped a water dropping by a helicopter.  This is all very close to Rocky Mountain National Park. 

This morning is a treat as 4 or 5 of us gather to celebrate a birthday.  Birthday girl chose the French  Bakery & they do have wonderful food.  These friends are true treasures and I am so fortunate to know them. 

Janet:  You are probably up and about - may surgery go on schedule and be very helpful.  Thanks for your message



Larry Hanna

Hi Everyone.  It is a beautiful clear and sunny morning here and we are only to get to around 90 degrees by late afternoon.  Today is the day for the housekeeper and she is going to put on the treatments for the granite countertops.  While the granite is nice looking it sure isn't easy to maintain.  A couple of windows will have to be opened to get good ventilation so will be a good day as won't be quite as hot this morning as many other mornings have been.  The housekeepr is going to start on washing the windows while they are opened. 

I did not have an enjoyable day yesterday and spent most of the afternoon laying down with my eyes closed as my leg muscles were aching.  I am thinking it has to do with fluid accumulation perhaps around my heart preventing enough oxygen getting to my leg muscles.  I took a couple of Tylonal and it didn't help.  I seem to be feeling OK this morning. 

If the barber Pat likes is working today we plan on going out for our main meal and then getting haircuts.  I will get one regardless as I have a coupon for $4 that expires from Great Clips tomorrow and I do need a haircut.  The restaurant is just a few doors down from the Great Clips store.  That will be plenty of activity for us for one day. 

Carol, it appears that weather patterns are changing in a lot of places.  Glad you have the AC to keep you cool on the hot days.  I sure hope that your son doesn't have a serious heart or lung problem.  Glad you have a good hospital there to deal with such problems.  I am sure you will enjoy the extra time with your son.  It is my philosophy, as I have often stated here, to Let Go and Let God.  We have to do our part such as get the medical attention that is needed.  Sorry that your daughter didn't get the job she would have liked.  I hope you like the Instant Pot.  On some recipe you release the pressure valve (Pat uses a wooden spoon to stay away from the hot steam, and on other you let the steam come down naturally.  One thing sure with it is that the lid is not going to blow off as it is very heavy duty as you will see and has a great latch, which will only latch one way.  We had a little problem figuring that out at first. What size did you get.
Sorry to hear of the fire at Grand Lake.  It seems that the drone flying is getting out of hand.  What a great place to celebrate a birthday and French Bakeries are usually very good and have great pastries.  I don't think we have any of them around this area.  Friends are wonderful. 

Janet, hope the surgery went well and you are not in a lot of pain and will have an uneventful recovery.   

JudyB

This was one of Chris Saunders' post on FB:

Amos 3-3. John 4.
"Can two walk together unless they be agreed?"

Friends, this is the sum of your Salvation, this sums up perfectly what Salvation is all about, Our Lord said " You worship you know not what, Salvation is of the Jews" a harsh word to the Samaritan woman, but she needed shocking out of her lifestyle, she was living in sin but still professing to be religious, talking about her father Jacob and discussing where one might worship. A religious smokescreen which our Saviour blew away so that for the first time she could see clearly..her past sins, and her life now, completely unacceptable to God.
Can two walk together unless they be agreed?
No!
But Jesus brought the woman to get knees spiritually, she saw herself as the sinner she was, she saw her need for her Messiah, the gracious One Who sat before her and Who was offering her the Living Water to heal and cleanse her very heart and soul, the conviction of the Holy Spirit came within her, she repented of her sins, and was able to answer the question put by God to Amos..for when you agree with God that you are a sinner in need of His mercy, and surrender to His will..soon the two of you can walk together!



Larry Hanna

Hi Everyone. It looks like we will have another pleasant day getting only up into the low 90's this afternoon.  We have a fairly busy morning planned.  I want to attend a meeting at 10:30 and then will come home and get Pat and we will go downtown to Great Clips for haircuts and then to the Sunshine Grill for our main meal of the day.  I will probably tune in and watch some of the golf later this afternoon.  The rest of the day should be nice and restful and peaceful.  Yesterday we just ended up staying in all day and had a nice salad dinner.  I always have tuna on my salad and Pat prefers the canned chicken.  It is a very easy meal to prepare. 

Judy, thanks for sharing that fine piece by Chris. 

Carol

"It is well, with my soul", I keep hearing that in my mind this morning.  What a treat to see five male deer in the back - the ravine -sitting and walking around for about 3 hours now.  Such gentle creatures - always a privilege to spot them.

Janet:  Thinking of you - praying your pain is controlled.  My cousin's son is a missionary overseas and his wife had to be flown to Turkey for both ankles were injured when a horse bucked.  That is two big horse injuries by two different relatives in a couple of years.  Anyway, I thought of both of you today - rest and recuperate.

We had to drive to the airport and it was a trial of which we hope to never endure again - terrible drivers - everyone driving is unhappy and they feel so special.

Larry:  It is the middle size, 6 quart.  I have taken it out of the box and bought the steam release thing that directs steam away.  Thank you for thinking of our family - we will be alright. 


 

Janet

#79
Here I am again!  Got home around 3 yesterday afternoon; didn't do much, of course.  The pain was pretty bad for the first few hours; throat hurt really bad from the darn tube!  I looked with a flashlight and there are two cuts or abrasions in the back of my throat.  Bad job on that!  I gargled a few times and that really helped.  They gave me an opioid for the surgery pain, so I'm not taking it any more--only took the one before leaving hospital and one at 8 last night. Pain is much less now, so have switched to Tylenol.  I have a drain where the biggest mass was removed, that will stay one week.  She said she was shocked at how large the masses really were!  She called them "abnormal" but said she didn't see anything that looked like cancer; of course sent them to lab to make sure!  She even took my cell phone and took photos so I could see what they looked like!  Nice of her!  She knew I wouldn't be awake in time to see them!

John came out to see how I'm doing and visited with me for an hour.  Sweet of him!  So far, nobody else has called or visited.

I want to go to church tomorrow but don't know what to wear!  I don't have any pants with wide enough legs to get over the drain.  Maybe I will wear a long skirt, and put my feet up on the seats; as I'm not supposed to let them hang down.  I have a footstool under my desk now!  Won't stay here long, as it's not at all comfortable!

Larry, I hope Pat gets "clipped" today, along with you!  ;)  I got my hair cut on Thursday, but am not happy with the job.   :(  But it will grow, that's for sure!

Carol, I also look for the beauty in nature, especially when  a family member is having physical difficulties.  It helps to return my mind to thankfulness rather than concerns.  Bless you, my friend! 

I need to walk around a bit; that helps the fluid to flow into the drain better.
And I need Tylenol again; ankles are paining!

Then maybe a little nap with feet up!
My book Rising Above available at JanetDamon.com

Larry Hanna

Hi Everyone.  Like about everyone else we are going to be hot here today but not as bad as other areas of the country.  I am hoping we get some rain this afternoon.  As is often the case, we did not accomplish what we had planned as Pat wasn't feeling like getting out to go to get her hair cut and so we just stayed in all afternoon and evening.  I will go to Sunday School and Church in a little while.  Today begins the casual July combined services at 11 am.  We also get will be introduced to our new Associate Minister this morning.  As usual I plan to pick up something for lunch and then have a quiet and restful afternoon watching the end of the golf tournament later this afternoon. 

Carol, those male deer must have been a beautiful site.  I just don't see any wildlife here but know there is some in the wooded areas.  Do you have to take your son back to the airport or will he find another means of transportation.  That sounds like a nice size Instant Pot.  They are really well built aren't they?  I haven't heard Pat mention getting something to direct the steam away. 

Janet, good to see that your surgery is over and you are on your way to healing.  Unfortuantely pain is a part of that healing process.  In the surgeries I have had I have never had a problem from the tube in my throat.  I hope your throat is feeling much better today.  Sounds like it was a good thing you had the masses removed.  I hope you feel up to going to Church but don't forget it is important to take care of yourself.  I have always heard that the third day after surgery is usually the hardest. 

JudyB

I am coming here with a completely broken heart.  Our grand daughter passed away yesterday.  Coroner said it was a heart problem.  Thus the determination of "natural causes".  However there is nothing natural about an 18 year old dying.

Please pray for Heather, her husband, their other kids, and the extended family.  We all are shaken by this......Please pray.


Jane Walker

Judy  :'(  I am shocked and so sorry to read of this tragedy.  Please know that my prayers are for all of you to feel the loving arms of our Father holding you close to His heart as you try to understand.  I know something about a loss of this magnitude.  My heartfelt condolences go out to all concerned.
Life isn't about waiting for the storm to pass .... it's about learning to dance in the rain!

Marilyn

AMEN to Jane's Prayer
I am at a loss for words other than to say I am praying for the Comforter to be with Heather and the rest of the family.
"Good people take care of their animals, but even the kindest acts of the wicked are cruel" Prov. 12:10
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Carol

Peace be with Judy and all of the family.  I am so sorry for the loss of a treasured grandchild. 

Jacqueline

" there is no such thing as an ending, only a place where you leave the story "
~ Muriel Donnelly

Janet

Oh, my!  My heart breaks for you, Judy, for Heather and her husband and the siblings.  What a dreadful shock!  I pray the comforter holds you all close and gives you the peace that only our Lord can provide at such a time.  I am so, so sorry. 
My book Rising Above available at JanetDamon.com

JudyB

Thank you folks, I really covet prayer for Heather, her hubby Jon and the rest of the family. Everyone is in shock, tomorrow they are doing to deal with the funeral home.  This will be a difficult week.  Pray that I have the strength to support the family.


Larry Hanna

Judy and John, at a time like this for you all words are inadequate to express our sadness.  There are many things that our beyond our comprehension and your loss is one of them.  I will keep you both and Heather and her family and all of your family in my prayers. 

JudyB

Thank you all....

I am OK, God is good the shock is over. I went to bed last night, totally tired, and ready to sleep, and my eyes popped open. I had to come down and start writing. It wasn't me writing, if you understand that.....

This is what I was given.


John 10:10 (NIV)
10 The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.

This has been the case in our family. The thief has stolen our peace, killed relationships, and levelled the ultimate destruction. We so often take this verse out of context and wonder where the abundant life is especially with the loss of Kimi. It is so easy to turn on God and blame him.
Our Heavenly Father is not responsible for our loss, He is wanting and waiting for us to turn to Him and have the life He spoke of in the above words.
Kim was upset over her inability to walk, jump, long-board, and have a normal life. Just think she is with our Lord totally healed. She can now do all those things with pure joy in her heart. The thief destroyed, only to have our Lord heal her. The thief has been defeated in our sweet Kimi's life!!! Our Lord has been victorious.
Someone told me that they don't believe in Faith Healing. I do, thinking about this laying in bed wide awake, I believe Kim has had the ultimate healing, never to be in any kind of pain again. I can hardly wait to meet up with her again......in the twinkling of an eye!

Please continue to pray for Heather's family and my kids.....there is a lot of anger, and it is directed at God, "How can a loving God take our sister/daughter". Heather is solid.  She has turned to God for her strength.


Jacqueline

Judy...
...what a wonderful and beautiful way to have put this, I found it very touching and moving...no we cannot blame our God as He is now the one to put us back together again......
" there is no such thing as an ending, only a place where you leave the story "
~ Muriel Donnelly

Larry Hanna

Hi Everyone. It is to be another typical July day here in South Carolina.  I do have another pretty busy morning planned although not difficult.  Right before 9 am I will pick up an online order of groceries at Walmart and then make a quick stop at Aldi's on the way back to the house.  At 10 am I am meeting someone here in my office for an hour.  The rest of the day is clear.  My eye appointment went well yesterday and he said my eyes are in great shape other than I have developed dry eyes, which I can take care of with over the counter means.  I was fortunate to have a riding cart at  Costco so that make my shopping their much easier.  However, I was ready to rest when I got home about 3 pm.  Jennifer and Elizabeth were here starting to do cloths washing as their washing machine won't be fixed for several days. They didn't leave until about 8:30 last evening.  I expect the yard maintenance company to be in our neighborhood this morning for the entire day. 

Judy, I know your heart is troubled at losing Kimi but as you said it is only for a season and you will be reunited for Eternity.  To some questions there are no answers such as the loss of life of the young.  It is our faith that sustains us in these times.

Jackie, well said. 

Janet, sure hope your recovery is going well.   

Janet

Dear friends, we all have experienced losses in life; but with every life lost, there is another family left to deal with the grief. I wondered which granddaughter this was, now I know it was Kimi.  I didn't know that she had physical limitations.  But I can totally empathize with that, having walked with Beth through all her years of loss and disability.  And for sure, I can celebrate with the family in knowing she is set free of all disabilities and pain, forever!  I hope the ones who are blaming God will open their hearts to the truth of His love and find the peace their hearts need.

I'm progressing nicely in my recovery, I think.  Last night Darrel and I took the bandages off (they said we could on Monday) so I could shower.  The Ace bandages were wrapped so tightly they were causing a lot of pain and swelling, so it was really a relief to get a shower, then we managed to put them back on, with fresh gauze over the wounds. And we didn't wrap the Ace so tightly!  I had a good night of sleep after all that!  ;)  My leg looks really strange--all caved in where so much tissue was removed!  :o

I made a deal with a publisher yesterday, so am making the final push to finish the book.  Goal is to get it published by the end of the year!  I "lit a fire" under John today to get done with the part he wants to have in the book ASAP!  He said he will bring me what he has done today, then try to finish what he wants to say.

Goodness!  I need to stop!  Bye!
My book Rising Above available at JanetDamon.com

Larry Hanna

Hi Everyone on this 4th of July.  We had planned to all get together to celebrate Pat's birthday a few days early but Scott told us yesterday that once again he has traded days with another employee and will be working tonight.  So now we may do it on Saturday at noon.  I expect to have a pretty quiet day today.  I have done the kitchen choirs except to fit Pat's breakfast.  I split a big ripe and juicy peach and a banana between  but will add a couple of strawberries to Pat serving with her breakfast. 

Janet, great to read that you are progressing nicely with your recovery and that you have a deal with a publisher.  I hope the fire works under John so that he will finish up his part of the book soon. 

Marilyn


Freckles and I at Mingus Park Family fund Day that the Fire Dept does every year. We take our dogs and everyone gets to pet them.
"Good people take care of their animals, but even the kindest acts of the wicked are cruel" Prov. 12:10
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Janet

Larry, what day is Pat's birthday?  I guess I need to add fuel to that fire; John hasn't brought me anything yet!

Marilyn!  What a lovely photo!

I went and painted today; taking along a little stool and pillows so I could prop my legs up.  I did another card, this one in honor of Beth, as it has some of her flowers and a little angel I was given when she went to heaven; and it's in her colors of green and purple.  I have two little things to finish on it; then will photograph and share it.

I get this drain out of my leg tomorrow, am anxious to get the "all clear" that I am confident will be the lab report!  Also wonder what's next in the recovery process.

I'm not planning to go to the fireworks display here tonight, not even stay up late enough to watch any on TV.  What's the deal?  Surely, I'm not getting that old, am I?   :lol:

It's supposed to be about 10 degrees cooler here tomorrow, for that I am thankful!

Hope you have all had a wonderful Independence Day!  I see on the news just now, they nabbed the crazy woman who was climbing on the Statue of Liberty!
My book Rising Above available at JanetDamon.com

Jacqueline

Janet...
...if you have seen one fireworks display, you have seen them all...as the well known expression goes...

Marilyn...
...you are smiling but I dont see Freckles smiling...he must have been eyeing up the situation...

last night I went to one of my monthly MS social gatherings ( I have two ) where we just had a quiz followed by the usual table raffle of stuff members bring in, nothing expensive....This meet-up is a 30 mile one way car journey into the next county but is worth the long 45-50 minute trip ( which is a nice clear run, only problem I have to hold my bladder until I get there, ) it is something to always look forward to for those couple of hours... 
" there is no such thing as an ending, only a place where you leave the story "
~ Muriel Donnelly

Larry Hanna

Hi Everyone.  It is going to be another typical July day but only getting into the low 90's.  Not much planned for today.  I will pick up my friend and we will go downtown to coffee.  After I drop him back off at home I will stop at the Dairy Queen and pick up a small ice cream cake for Pat's birthday celebration on Saturday.  I also need to check on getting her some flowers as a gift from her sister.  I may make a quick trip over to Costco as they have some beautiful cut flowers and the price should be quite a bit less than the florist.  I already have the card and the gift I am giving her so then should be ready for her birthday.  Yesterday turned out just to be a quiet day and the girls did not come out for dinner as decided to just wait and come out on Saturday.  I did watch the Capitol 4th of July program and saw the beautiful fireworks at the end.  I enjoyed it and there was some entertainment for everyone.  The singing of Renee Fleming was gorgeous.  There sure were a lot of people there on a very hot night but they seemed to be having a great time. 

Marilyn, nice picture of you and Freckles.  I bet Freckles liked all of the attention.  How many dogs were there?

Janet, Pat's birthday is on Monday, the 9th.  John sounds about as reliable as some of our family in doing what they say they are going to do at what time.  I no longer expect it so I am not let down when it doesn't happen and if it does that is great. Things eventually work out.  Is there any chance your painting yesterday could be an illustration in your book as it sounds like it would be very appropriate? Hope you get the good doctor's report today and know you will be glad to have the drain taken out.  With the quality of the TV pictures now seeing the fireworks on TV is far better for me than being their in person.  You get to see the beauty without the noise and the smell of fireworks.  Those I watched last night were accompanied by the 1812 Overture and then more patriotic music until the 90 minute program ended at 9:30 after about a 30 minute fireworks display. 

Jackie, you are right about the repetition of the fireworks.  In fact, after about 15 minutes of watching on TV I was seeing the same displays done over and over. Glad you could attend your MS social gathering.  Was the raffle table good to you? 

JudyB

#98
I woke up singing this for 2 days now...

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LqBpifDpNKc

Our Lord has been with Heather and I this week giving promises of peace and strength. Hebrews 12:1 has been heathers verse through this, she is compassed about by a great cloud of witnesses praying for her.... Thank you and please keep praying for her please.


Marilyn

Jackie I had my hands under her  neck to keep her still and she was watching a puppy playing in front of us. She kept her eyes on that pup because it was so rambunctious an d  Freckles didn't want to play with the pup.

Larry there were 8 dogs there that belong to Furry Friend members.
"Good people take care of their animals, but even the kindest acts of the wicked are cruel" Prov. 12:10
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Janet

Hello, friends!
I've had a lot of pain in my leg/feet today.  Went to Garden and got the drain out, but the stitches weren't healed well enough to take them out.  She told me to get my feet higher than my head for at least 20 minutes, four times a day.  Easiest way to do that will be using the adjustable bed.  Rather hard to get stuff done in that position, though!  ;)

Judy, have you had Kimi's service yet?  What was the cause of death, on the certificate?  Did she have heart problems?  18 is so very young; but when we know Jesus, we can rejoice for the joys that await us in heaven.  It was hard to have Beth leave us, but I'm so glad she's entered a more wonderful life in heaven than we can really imagine!  I pray that is true for your sweet girl, as well.  And I thank God for His promise that we WILL see our loved ones again, and that we will know each other!  Prayers continue for all the family.  How is Pat doing?

Larry, thanks for your suggestion about using the painting in the book. I hadn't thought of that, but it's a great idea!  I posted a picture of it on Facebook today.

I took some Tylenol and the pain is less, so I need to go to bed and get some sleep while I can!

Oh!  Jackie, good to have you come in and chat a bit!
My book Rising Above available at JanetDamon.com

Larry Hanna

Hi Everyone.  It appears that the posting I wrote yesterday I must have forgotten to post here as I don't find it.  I am writing early today as I couldn't sleep after getting up at 3:30 and so decided to sit in my easy chair until I got sleepy again.  This is going to be a busy morning if I feel up to doing what I hope to do.  Today is our 56th wedding anniversary and we will have the family here around noon to celebrate that and Pat's birthday, which is Monday.  I hope to attend a meeting this morning and then will stop by Firehouse Subs for subs to share for lunch.  Pat has good sausage, cheese and salsa recipe that she fixes in a small crock pot.  I got a couple of bags of chips at Aldis the other day to go with the dip and subs.  Then we will top it off with a slice of Ice Cream Cake that is in the freezer.  I did not feel well yesterday but did get to Costco and quickly picked up a bouquet of 24 beautiful red roses that Pat's sister asked me to get for Pat's birthday.  I thought the sign said the roses were $30 but when I checked out they were only $18 plus a few cents.  Since we are celebrating Pat's birthday today I need to get the card ready and the gift wrapped before she gets up this morning. 

Janet, I hope by now your legs ae feeling better and not causing so much pain. 

Marilyn, thanks for the information on how many dogs participated in the special event you spoke of.

Judy, I had not heard the hymn for which you posted the link.  I know this is a difficult time for you, Heather and all of your family dealing with the loss of Kimi.   

Janet

Good Saturday morning to you all!

Like Larry, I have been up since 4:44--the only reason I remember is that it was all 4s when I looked at the clock!  The doctor told me I could start wearing my compression stockings (knee highs) instead of using the Ace wrap.  That's fine, once I get them on!  But it's a hard and painful job getting them on!  Darrel helps me hold them away from the incisions while I tug and yank to get them on.  Phew!  Wears me out!

Larry,  I hope you feel better soon.  Darrel often gets up, then takes a nap in his chair soon after.

I want to go out to our little Farmer's Market for a while.  I'm tired of staying in, and always see friends there.  I won't stay long, as my ankles and leg are paining this morning.

Happy Anniversary, Larry and Pat!!  And Happy Birthday, Pat!!  May you have a sweet celebration and many more happy years together!  That #50 is a real milestone to celebrate! :hb2: :hb3: :cheer: :cheer:

It's only 63 here this morning, feels wonderful having the windows open.
And only a slight breeze, so far.  Temp will head up to 90, still not too bad for July!

I made some progress toward my book Treasures from Grant County yesterday.  The deal I made with the publisher is for both books.  This one will include all those stories I wrote about the elderly folk here in our county; I will only need to write the forward or preface or whatever!  And I'll be so happy to have it published, as I know many will want the book containing their loved one's story.  At least, I would!  :)

Now I need to go searching in my photos to find all those folks' pictures that go with their stories!  More computer work, not my favorite job, for sure.
But so glad they are in there somewhere!

Have a happy!!
My book Rising Above available at JanetDamon.com

Jacqueline

" there is no such thing as an ending, only a place where you leave the story "
~ Muriel Donnelly

Larry Hanna

Hi Everyone.  Yesterday was not as hot a day as we have been experiencing and I think today is to stay in the 80's.  We had a brief shower last evening, maybe five minutes.  The birthday and anniversary dinner we had planned for yesterday was just Pat and I and Scott.  The girls backed out at the last minute.  I had just placed the sub order at Firehouse Subs when I got the message from our son that the girls were not coming.  Fortunately, they hadn't made the extra large sub yet so I was able to cancel it and get a refund.  We made the decision yesterday afternoon that we are dispensing with trying to be the Wednesday night dinners as it is becoming too taxing on Pat and also a burden on me that I don't need.  I have also written the Church secretary to remove 2 of the 5 reservations for the two Wednesday evening dinners at the Church this month and have notified the girls.  I have been thinking we needed to make this change for sometime and yesterday was sort of the straw that broke the camel's back.  I told them we wanted them to come visit us on Wednesday evenings or any other time as long as they call to be sure we are home.  I will be going to Sunday School in about an hour and hopefully Pat will feel up to attending Church with me.  We will not be eating out or bringing home something for our Sunday dinner as we have enough left overs from the tortillas that we had the other night.  Yesterday I did give Pat her cards and birthday gift.  I had ordered her a set of Boll and Branch sheets and pillowcase.  They are fine quality and I think she will enjoy them. 

Janet, I can't image trying to put on those compression stocking with stitches still in your legs.  I wear them and sometimes it is difficult to get them on.  Glad you have Darrel to help you.  I did feel good yesterday and think today will be the same.  I don't nap unless I am laying in bed.  Thanks for the Anniversary and Birthday wishes as we appreciate them.  I hadn't realized you were planning on publishing a second book. 

Jackie, thanks for the very nice Birthday card. 

Janet

We had excellent services at church this morning.  I sat in the entry with my feet up, and could hear and see just fine.  I was having a lot of pain from the compression stockings being too tight.  It hurt so much putting them on it made me cry! :'(  But we stayed for Pastor's small group, and when we got home, those stockings came off!  I might have to wrap my legs again with the ace bandages, but I'm not putting those stockings on again!  (At least not today!)

Larry, that was not considerate of the girls to back out at the last minute. I understand why you made the changes you did.  Do they have any idea the amount of effort it takes for you to plan and execute things?  I hope this makes them think about it!

John is still procrastinating on getting his writing to me.  He can't remember specifically what it was Beth had one time they thought was pink eye, so he's not budging.  I've told him it doesn't matter at all to the reader what it was, but I can't get through to him.  I told him to skip it and go ahead; then if he remembers, come back to it.  But he said, "That's not my writing style!"  So I told him he needs to be a little more flexible!  I'm getting frustrated with him, as he promised every day last week to bring it to me 'today.'  :ticked:

It seems our church will be moving ahead with the renovations to the sanctuary.  People turned in their pledge cards this morning so they will have an idea of the amount of funds they have to work with.  We're excited to be moving ahead with the project.

I need to go get my feet up in a more comfortable position.  I will be so happy when I get back to normal!!
My book Rising Above available at JanetDamon.com

Larry Hanna

Hi Everyone.  We are looking forward to another very nice day with it staying in the upper 80s but with low humidity and then typical summer weather will be back for the rest of the week. 

The only thing on our schedule for today is we are going to go out for a mid-afternoon main meal at a nice restaurant that we have enjoyed in the past but haven't been to in the last year or so.  Scott will be going with us for the final celebration of Pat's birthday, which actually is today.  Later this afternoon we expect the girls will come over and do a load of laundry as they are still awaiting the repairman to get Scott's washing machine fixed. 

I enjoyed the Sunday School and Church service yesterday and this was the second Sunday for the one combined service.  I hope this will become an annual tradition as it gives a chance for the Church to come together as one congregation.  However, by the time I got home I wasn't feeling well and spent a lot of time laying in bed yesterday afternoon.  I did have a good night's sleep and am feeling OK this morning although not peppy.  So will try not to over exert today. Pat didn't feel up to attending yesterday.

Janet, glad you were able to enjoy your Church services yesterday.  Sorry that the compression stockings didn't work out for you.  At least with the bandage you can control how much pressure is put on your legs.  I don't think the girls have any idea of the effort required on a weekly basis in planning, buying and getting food prepared.  Unfortunately our granddaughter is very self-absorbed and everything that happens is always someone else's fault.  We love her and just accept her the way she is.  We plan on just inviting them occasionally to join us when we go out to eat. Sorry to read that John is still procrastinating in doing his writing.  Perhaps you will just have to give him a specific date by which time the book must be finished with or without his contribution.  It sort of sounds like his "writing style" is not writing anything at all.  :)  I hope your Church renovations move forward quickly. 

Carol

Taking a break from moving furniture - a rug cleaner is coming this afternoon.  I cannot clean carpets and move all the furniture anymore - I did move most of the furniture.  A neighbor and I were talking about how our lives are so busy - that is good to a point.

Praying for all the children in the Thailand rescue operation from the cave.

prayers for everyone in CP. 




Jacqueline

Carol...
...I have been glued to this story, 8 out, with 4 to go, and not forgetting the man coach...I have prayed for each ones safety, and of the rescue team....
" there is no such thing as an ending, only a place where you leave the story "
~ Muriel Donnelly

Janet

Here it is evening and I'm just getting around to posting!  It's been Monday--all day!  :-\   We did go back to the gym today.
I walked on the treadmill for 15 minutes (.75 mile) then did a couple of arm exercises.  But I have felt draggy all day.

I did enjoy a nice lunch date with my friend the judge.  She got to tell me about their trip to Ireland; they had a wonderful time!

I managed to struggle into a pair of Darrel's compression socks today, as he uses a lighter compression than I.  I wore them until about an hour ago, and they weren't too bad.  It's jut getting them on that is the pain--seriously!

Larry, John brought me out what he wrote today.  I don't think he did a very good job, but will revise it a little and just add it at the end under "tributes from friends and family."  I can tell he just wrote something as quickly as he could so I would stop bugging him.  Sigh.....  And part of it isn't even right. Well, I tried!

I got our sheets washed today and Darrel helped me remake the bed.
That will be nice to have nice fresh sheets tonight!

I'm so happy they have gotten several of the boys out of the flooded cave.
We have been watching that carefully, too, as we are scuba divers, but NOT cave divers!  So sad the Thai Navy Seal drowned in the effort.  Praying the rest get safely out tomorrow!  Can you even imagine the joy and relief of those families?  And of course, the boys!

Carol, My life is busier than I want it to be!  Of course, I am the one who could change that, and I have given up quite a few of the activities I was involved in, but still I don't seem to have enough "quiet time."  I am thinking that this will be my last year to serve as Superintendent of the art department at the fair.  The problem is, younger folks aren't stepping up to help; and there a lot of us older folks still carrying the load.

Gonna watch the Wheel!
My book Rising Above available at JanetDamon.com

Larry Hanna

Hi Everyone.  I just now saw the headline that the 12th boy and the soccer coach have now been rescued from the cave.  What an ordeal.

It is another beautiful and clear morning here in South Carolina.  It is 66 this morning but headed up to 98 this afternoon.  I am thankful I am staying home today where it will be cool and have only a commitment at 10 am, which will be accomplished here at the house. 

We had a delightful and delicious meal at Cheddars yesterday.  Then soon after we got home the girls came out and did a load of laundry and while it was washing the girls played some games of Farkle.

For the last several days we have noticed a very unpleasant smell in our garage and then in the car when we were out.  We couldn't locate the cause until yesterday we isolated it to the car.  On the third check of the trunk I finally located the problem.  It was a package of beef I had purchased at Costco last week that is sliced for sandwiches.  Some way it had gotten to the back of the truck entangled with the transport chair.  The packaging was black.  We were checking the truck again and I got in just the right position to see the package at the back of the trunk.  It was tightly sealed but very puffed out but that didn't stop the odor and it is now out on the patio and will go into the trash Thursday morning. 

Carol, do you have those sliders you can put under the legs or edges of the furniture?  They work really well but you still have to lift one corner to get them under legs or bottom surface and have to do this for each corner. 

Jackie, what a miracle that all of the boys and the man have now been saved from that terrible cave situation.  The coach is being called a hero for being able to keep the boys alive during this ordeal.  I haven't heard any report on the condition of the boys or the coach. 

Janet, it sounds like you must be doing better if you elected to go to the gym yesterday.  Glad that John finally gave you his input for your book.  Those divers who rescued those boys are certainly heroes in my book.  Fortunately                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                  they didn't give up and now all have been rescued alive.  I have observed that younger folks do not step up as long as longer folks continue to take on the responsibilities.                                                                                                                                                                                                                     

Carol

It is so hot here that the air conditioner started at 7 AM and we keep at 78 plus I usually use the oven early in the morning.  Lack of rain, high temperatures, fires burning both set by campers, etc. - this is not a good air quality year.  There is one huge fire burning where the plane dropping water had to pull back because - some people in hang gliders were right in the fire area - taking pictures from above.   :(

Larry:  It has been nice for you and Pat to have the girls company while they wash their clothing.  Wishing I lived closer to our grands - all are in school and one is in another state /  Everyone is working & going to school.  Just like I did and Don too.  It sure is difficult to visit.  It has been interesting to watch the Thai soccer team and the effort put into searching and saving them.  Many people coming together in prayer in several religions.  ---It is too hot here too - stay indoors as much as you can. 

Don took the water filter out under the sink yesterday and the new one looks fine but neither of us can get it in place.

Janet:  It seems that John walks to a different drum beat - he will never change at this age.    /b]

Janet

Good morning!  (At least for one more hour, it's morning here!)  I risked just wearing soft anklets rather than the compressions this morning, and did okay; walked a mile, then did three sets of arm/shoulder/core exercises.  It sure doesn't take long to start losing strength!   :-\

I see they had heavy rain in Phoenix, after hardly a drop for four months!  I do wish those rains could dump on Colorado and the other places where those awful fires are raging!

Carol, I cannot imagine what's going on in the minds of people to go hang gliding over a fire, just for pictures!!   :idiot:  And to keep the firefighters from doing their jobs, too.  :(

I am feeling pressured because of so much to do in the next three weeks, beginning with the fair next week.  But Father God told me to just take deep breaths, settle down; focus my mind on Him, and just do the next thing.
That really helped me.  I can only do what I can do, right?

Larry, I was thinking exactly as you said, this morning--that the younger folk won't step up until we step down.  I'm ready to make room for them to serve!  It's a blessing to serve; but too long and too much, and it can become a burden.

So thankful the soccer team and coach are now safely out of that terribly scary ordeal.  I cannot imagine being trapped for so long, so far underground, in the dark and the damp and the unknown!

Larry, your story of the package of meat in the trunk reminded me of this: Several years ago we were on a trip, I think to South Texas.  Anyway we stopped at a roadside stand and Darrel bought a watermelon.  That's a very long road trip; two long days at best, and it was really hot.  When we got home and started to unpack, we found the melon had rolled around and busted open; was soured and stinky, and oh! what a mess!!  So I'm glad you found your stinky problem before the package ruptured and things got even worse!  Yuck!

I'm thinking about eating at the Senior Center today.  We haven't been in a long time.
My book Rising Above available at JanetDamon.com

Larry Hanna

#113
Hi Everyone.  Another clear and beautiful morning here in South Carolina.  Nothing on my schedule for today except going to dinner tonight at the Church and then Scott probably will come out for a couple of hours.  I will help Pat with a load or two of washing and fix her breakfast.  We had another of our salad dinners with either chicken or tuna last evening.  We enjoy these and they are very easy to prepare.  So it should be a fairly restful day.

Yesterday a little after 4 pm I took a big bag of paper records over and had them recycled at one of our credit union branches.  There was quite a line and I had to stand out in the sun probably 10 minutes or so.  I had also parked where I had to walk back to the car up an incline but made it OK.  The AC in the car felt mighty good. 

Janet, glad you were able to walk and do your other exercises yesterday and got along okay.  They not only had heavy rain in Phoenix they had another of those terrible dust cloud come over the city.  You are right that you can only do what you can do and when things are broken down into small chunks they don't seem so bad.  If the younger folks won't pick up the jobs that need to be done then perhaps the organization or activity may have run its course.  I always thought that things would go on if I suddenly died.  We don't like to think that things will continue without us but most often they do.  Your watermelon story has mine all beat to pieces as ther was no clean up after finding the package of meat and getting it out of the garage.  I did spray some Febreze in the garage and car and then in the house where I had walked through to the back patio.  It was all fine yesterday and will keep that package outside this evening when we take the trash can to the street.  Years ago we bought a watermelon that had spoiled inside and when I cut into it the sour watermelon juice ran all over the counter and down the front of the counter onto the floor.   

Carol, there are some really dumb people who would fly over a fire scene in a hang glider.  It sounds like there is a need for another law or regulation to prevent that happening and the same with drones.  I don't think Pat would go for the air conditioner to be set at 78.  We usually keep ours set at 73 or 74 and down to 72 at night.  We do enjoy spending some time with the girls.  They do the talking and we do the listening.  This is the first time we have lived close to our granddaughter and now consider Elizabeth like a granddaughter.  I expect there was elation all over the world at the safe return of those 12 boys and the coach from that cave.  I spend very little time outside. 


Larry Hanna

#114
This is a bit long but I thought it was worth reading and so decided to share it with you all:

I spent the week before my daughter's June wedding running last-minute trips to the caterer, florist, tuxedo shop, and the church about forty miles away.   As happy as I was that Patsy was marrying a good Christian young man, I felt laden with responsibilities as I watched my budget dwindle . . So many details, so many bills, and so little time. My son Jack was away at college, but he said he would be there to walk his younger sister down the aisle, taking the place of his dad who had died a few years before. He teased Patsy, saying he'd wanted to give her away since she was about three years old!
  To save money, I gathered blossoms from several friends who had large magnolia trees. Their luscious, creamy-white blooms and slick green leaves would make beautiful arrangements against the rich dark wood inside the church.
  After the rehearsal dinner the night before the wedding, we banked the podium area and choir loft with magnolias. As we left just before midnight, I felt tired but satisfied this would be the best wedding any bride had ever had! The music, the ceremony, the reception - and especially the flowers - would be remembered for years.
  The big day arrived - the busiest day of my life - and while her bridesmaids helped Patsy to dress, her fianc? Tim walked with me to the sanctuary to do a final check. When we opened the door and felt a rush of hot air, I almost fainted; and then I saw them - all the beautiful white flowers were black.  Funeral black!  An electrical storm during the night had knocked out the air conditioning system, and on  that hot summer day the flowers had wilted and died. I panicked, knowing I didn't have time to drive back to our home town, gather more flowers, and return in time for the wedding.
  Tim turned to me. "Edna, can you get more flowers? I'll throw away these dead ones and put fresh flowers in these arrangements."

        I mumbled, "Sure," as he be-bopped down the hall to put on his cuff links.
          Alone in the large sanctuary, I looked up at the dark wooden beams in the arched ceiling. "Lord," I prayed, "please help me. I don't know anyone in this town. Help me find someone willing to give me flowers - in a hurry!" I scurried out praying for four things: the blessing of white magnolia;courage to find them in an unfamiliar yard, safety from any dog that may bite my leg, and a nice person who would not get out a shotgun when I asked to cut his tree to shreds.
          As I left the church, I saw magnolia trees in the distance.    I approached a house... No dog in sight. I knocked on the door and an older man answered. So far so good . . . No shotgun. When I stated my plea the man beamed, "I'd be happy to!"
          He climbed a stepladder and cut large boughs and handed them down to me. Minutes later, as I lifted the last armload into my car trunk, I said, "Sir, you've made the mother of a bride happy today."
          "No, Maam," he said. "You don't understand what's happening here."
          "What?" I asked.
          "You see, my wife of sixty-seven years died on Monday. On Tuesday I received friends at the funeral home, and on Wednesday....? He paused. I saw tears welling up in his eyes. "On Wednesday I buried her."  He looked away. "On Thursday most of my out-of-town relatives went back home, and on Friday - yesterday - my children left."
          I nodded.
          "This morning," he continued, "I was sitting in my den crying out loud. I miss her so much. For the last sixteen years, as her health got worse, she  needed me. But now nobody needs me. This morning I cried, 'Who needs an eighty-six-year-old wore-out man? Nobody!' I began to cry louder. 'Nobody needs me!' About that time, you knocked, and said, "Sir, I need you."
          I stood with my mouth open.
          He asked, "Are you an angel? The way the light shone around your head into my dark living room..."
          I assured him I was no angel.
          He smiled. "Do you know what I was thinking when I handed you those magnolias?"
          "No."

                "I decided I'm needed. My flowers are needed. Why,  I might have a flower ministry! I could give them to everyone! Some caskets at the funeral home have no flowers. People need flowers at times like that and I have lots of them. They're all over the backyard! I can give them to hospitals, churches - all sorts of places. You know what I'm going to do? I'm going to serve the Lord until the day He calls me home!"
                  I drove back to the church, filled with wonder.  On Patsy's wedding day, if anyone had asked me to encourage someone who was hurting, I would have said, "Forget it! It's my only daughter's wedding, for goodness' sake! There is no way I can minister to anyone today."
                  But God found a way. Through dead flowers.
                 
                  "Life is not the way it's supposed to be. It's the way it is. The way you cope with it is what makes the difference."

Carol

Larry:  Such a nice story.  Thanks for sharing.

We are having a nice visit from our daughter and enjoying some quiet time now. 


Janet

Larry, thank you for sharing that story!  I remember having read it some time ago, but am so happy to read it again, as it's so inspiring!  We never know to whom or in what ways we can be a blessing!  My prayer is very often, "Lord, make me a blessing everywhere I go today!"   :)

I'm off to enjoy painting with my friends; praying my feet/legs won't give me too much pain today.  I get the stitches out tomorrow.

God bless you all!
My book Rising Above available at JanetDamon.com

Jane Walker

#117
Larry that story, and the comments, prompted me to tell of a similar event told at my daughter's memorial service.

There was an open mic and people were encouraged to speak of their experiences and memories of Joy.  One lady stood to tell how she had been absent from their ladies Bible study classes for quite a while because of illness.  She came to the class feeling pretty discouraged and spoke to the leader about that.  She ended by saying "Pray for me that I can have joy in my life again."  After she sat down, she said, "This beautiful, smiling lady sat down by me and said "'Hi, I'm Joy'" ! Joy was always ready and willing to seek out the new person, or just anyone she hadn't met yet, and introduce herself.  That day she was an instant answer to someone's prayer.
Life isn't about waiting for the storm to pass .... it's about learning to dance in the rain!

Carol

Sunday's sermon was about JOY - how timely it is with the posts today. 

Jane:  That is a wonderful remembrance of your daughter. 

Janet:  May your surgery totally mend - take care. 

Larry Hanna

Hi Everyone.  I am late getting here this morning as have been busy with other matters.  I made a quick trip to Walmart while it was still cool.  I needed a couple more men's summer shirts so looked in the men's department and found two on the clearance rack that were marked for $7 and $7.88.  When I checked out one rang up for $3 and one for $5, what a nice buy.  I was able to ride the electric cart so didn't wear myself out doing the shopping.

At 12:45 this afternoon Pat is meeting three other ladies from our Sunday School class who also have birthday's in July.  They are going to have lunch at Ruby Tuesdays.  I will take her and then think I will go to a BBQ restaurant up the road for my lunch and then stop at the library, which is close by and wait for her call.  I haven't been tot he library for a long time.  That is going to do it for today. 

Carol, it is always nice to have time with our children and then also nice to enjoy quiet time when they go back home or away to do something. 

Janet, I have to believe you are a blessing to many people such as your writing up their stories and now preparing a book of the articles and your great devotion to the needs of Beth, just to mention two I am aware of.  I am sure it will be a relief to get the stitches out and hope you had a most enjoyable day of painting. 

Jane, thanks for sharing that lovely remembrance of Joy.  We can never know just how much a few kind words or even a smile may mean to people. 

Larry Hanna

Hi Everyone.  We had a delightful half hour rain late yesterday afternoon and more rain and possible storms are in the forecast for today.  It will be in the high 80's today, which will be a relief from the high 90's we had yesterday. Yesterday Pat had a great time having the special luncheon with six other ladies in our Sunday School Class with July birthday.  It sounds like they kept each others ear busy and they visited for almost 3 hours.   I enjoyed quiet time with my lunch at the BBQ restaurant and then sitting in the library reading a couple of newspapers.  This morning the housekeeper will be here.  I have an 11:40 appointment with my new cardiologist. I am anxious to meet him.  I will stop on the way back at Costco to pick up a couple of items.  That will be it for today. 

Janet

Larry, that does sound like a wonderful treat for Pat, to visit with other ladies that long over lunch!  I know I would enjoy it!

I got the stitches out, and each day the pain seems to be less, which is good!  :)  I will wear compression stockings for working at the fair, though.  Don't want to push my luck!

It's terribly hot and muggy here today.  I'm trying to settle down to doing some work on my book(s).  I don't know why it's so hard to do today!  :-\

I need to call a lady; then I will be out of excuses for procrastinating!
My book Rising Above available at JanetDamon.com

Larry Hanna

Hi Everyone. Our day starts overcast and will only be in the upper 80's today with only a small chance of rain.  We did get a few brief showers yesterday afternoon.   

I had a very busy and tiring day yesterday.  I did see my new cardiologist and liked him and he spent a lot of time with me.  He asked me to add CO-Q10 daily and lasix every other day and to begin to increase the Entresto by another half pill daily for three weeks and then add it twice a week.  He also told me to drink a small amount of red wine before bedtime each evening.  On the way home I stopped at Costco for a few things and bought a bottle of red wine.  I will have to find the cork screw before I can start that activity.  When I have to replace this bottle I will look for one with a cap rather than a cork.  To finish off the day yesterday we did go out to eat in the evening as the housekeeper and Pat had sealed the rest of our kitchen cabinets and the kitchen wasn't in a shape to try to get a meal.  I have now put everything back in its place on the cabinets after letting them dry overnight.   

I plan on staying home today as am tired and will get some extra rest.  I want to be up to going to Sunday School and Church tomorrow.  I will watch some golf this afternoon. 

Janet, it is always a lift to get the stitches removed after surgery.  We had terrible humidity here yesterday and I notice today is starts out at 100%.  I hope you were able to get work done on your book(s) yesterday. 


Janet

Hi, Larry!  Seems it's just you and me so far today.  I went out to our little Farmers' Market, then watched the fair parade while sitting in my comfortable car.  Then I finished my exciting morning by going to the fair grounds and eating a free hot dog!  :)  But I did meet the fellow who is running against a Ulysses man (former county commissioner) for State Representative.  I decided I will vote for this guy, who is from a neighboring town, because the local guy is a boozer and looking for a soft job.

I really messed up yesterday.  I didn't put on the compression stockings; worked diligently for hours on my book; and when I stood up, Wow! the pain!  I looked at my feet; they were swollen up like balloons and fluid was oozing out of the incisions and running down the sides of my ankles.   :o I was up several times to take pain pills; and the first thing on my agenda when I got up was getting the compressions back on!!  So I'm not nearly as close to being fully healed as I thought.  :-\

I hope you see a lot of good differences in your health with the new doctor, Larry.  I enjoy sweet wine; don't think I like red wine, especially if it's 'dry' but if told to drink it, I guess I could learn to like it, maybe!  I like sparkling grape juice, which I call my fake wine!   ;)

I wish you all a pleasant afternoon!
My book Rising Above available at JanetDamon.com

Carol

Larry:  It sounds like you have an good new cardiologist.  I remember one of my Swedish grandparents (Emma) was told she was to sip a bit of wine daily and she could not understand it - thought it would be so unChristian.  Dad told her that Jesus drank wine --- the water was so polluted everyone drank wine at weddings too.  Just saying.....

Janet:  Put your special stockings right where you will spot them in the morning - you cannot make that mistake again.  This too shall pass. 


Larry Hanna

Hi Everyone.  Another cloudy morning as it was all day yesterday.  I am looking forward to a nice day today.  My main activities will be attending Sunday School and Church and then probably getting something to bring home for our main meal of the day. At this point I have no idea of whether Pat will be attending Church with me as she is still asleep.  She is really enjoying the new sheets as for the first time says she is waking up without being hot.  I accomplished nothing yesterday other than losing 4 1/2 pounds of weight after taking the first Lasix tablet yesterday morning so you know what I was doing all day long.  I will probably watch some of end of the golf tournament this afternoon.

Janet, has your county fair begun already?  Sitting in your comfortable car is certainly the way to watch a parade.  These big gathering certainly give politicians a good opportunity to interact with a lot of people.  Sorry about your set back on your incisions.  I guess this is the way we learn.  I will be having only a very small glass of wine each night.  I ordered a corkscrew from Amazon that should be here next week.  I don't expect to acquire a taste for it and will treat it as a medicine.  Every doctor has his/her own ideas.  I will follow his instruction and hope to feel better with a little more energy.  I don't expect to be gaining a lot of strength as my heart failure continues to increase as the heart continues to weaken.  I will just take whatever comes along each day. 

Carol, I don't certainly don't consider drinking wine as unChristian as throughout the Bible people drank wine as you stated your Dad had told your grandmother.  The problem comes when things are done to excess or we become addicted. 

Janet

We enjoyed church and small group this morning; then had "Pizza with the Pastor" to ask any questions we had about church membership.  We hadn't been willing to join up to this time, but after he explained some few things to us, I am considering that we might as well be members.  We are faithful attenders already.  John came into Puffy's Pizza while we were there, so pastor invited him to join us, and he did.  It was just the five of us, Pastor's wife included.

I'm going to get my feet up for a while, I feel them swelling in spite of the compressions!
My book Rising Above available at JanetDamon.com

Larry Hanna

Hi Everyone.  Another overcast morning with a better than 50% chance of rain though out the day.  We had a very good Sunday School class with a couple in attendance who had been members for a long time before moving a year or so ago.  A friend from Sunday School brought me a small bag of squash fresh from her garden, which was a nice surprise.  Our Church service was outstanding.  The Church was even more full than it had been the previous two Sundays with our combined service. 

On the way home I stopped at Bogangles and got something new for our lunch that we hadn't tried before.  I got Pat some Homestyle Chicken Strips with green beans and a biscuit and I got the baked chicken bites with coleslaw and a biscuit.  We both liked what we had and will be having those items again for future Sunday dinners.  I could only eat about half of the chicken bites so Pat was able to finish them up last evening.  I forgot to observe National Ice Cream Day so will try to make up for this oversight this week and the weeks ahead. 

I did finish listening to the audio book as well as finished reading the ebook and got a new audio book and a new ebook started.  I don't have anything specific on the agenda for today but may go to Walmart to pick up a couple of prescriptions for myself and a couple for Pat.  I plan on doing more reading today. 

Janet, I love the name of your pizza restaurant.  Nice of you to have pizza with the pastor and his wife.  Our minister has started going every Thursday afternoon to Starbucks for an hour and meeting people.  It is part of his ministry to the community.  It was nice that John could join you.  It is nice to belong to the Church where we attend and that is one of the things we have always done when we relocated as we wanted a Church home as well as a residence. 

Judy, I was thinking about you and John this morning and hope you both are feeling better.

Janet

It's supposed to be cooler here today, with the high predicted to be only 93!!  That's good news!  It was almost unbearably hot on Saturday and Sunday.

Larry, actually, the pastor took us to lunch!  He does this "Pizza with the Pastor" thing periodically, so those who attend the church but haven't yet joined can ask questions about things that trouble them.  He knew I had questions; and he answered them to my satisfaction.  John just happened to choose to eat there, so when we saw him come in, Pastor Todd asked him to join us.  I love being part of a Spirit-filled church, but we've been attending the Methodist for about two years already, so.....

After I rested a while, I went to my studio and started purging books and magazines I have been collecting all the years I have been painting.  It's rather hard, but some are so outdated (like all the tee shirt painting books and patterns, and "cutesy" little ducks, etc.) I know I will never be using them again, so out they go!  I think it will take a long time to get it all done, but at least I made a start!  I'm keeping some for Lexi, as she loves art, and may enjoy them.  If not, they can toss them!

Time to get with it!  I have my compression socks on, laundry in the washer, and have taken my Zeal, so it's time to get some things done!

See you all later!!
My book Rising Above available at JanetDamon.com

Larry Hanna

Hi Everyone.  It is another overcast day and a good possibility of more rain.  We had at least 1 1/2 inches of rain yesterday afternoon and during the night.  We are to get to about 90 degrees this afternoon. 

I don't have much on the calendar for today.  The kitchen chores are done and at 10 am my friend will be here for an hour.  Today is the 60th anniversary of IHOP opening and they are offering sixty cent pancakes.  Pat mentioned we might take that in but we will just have to wait and see how she is feeling.  That will likely be it for today.  For some reason I didn't feel very peppy yesterday but hope for a better day today. 

Janet, I had misunderstood about your "Pizza with the Pastor".  Our Church offers periodic short classes to answer folks questions or they can be asked when one of the ministers visits in our home.  I do believe we are Spirit filled but the outward expression of it can be in different ways.  We have both the traditional and the Contemporary services.  I have liked our combined services that we have had this month and in our old Church they had started doing the combined service once a month.  These are sort of a blend with some segments of both types included.  I am sure it is like parting with old friends to purge your painting books and magazines.  Pat has many quilting books and magazines but did purge quite a few of them in this last move but I think only to make room for more new ones.  Lexi will likely be trilled to get some of your painting books as she gets a little older. 

Carol

It is temporarily cool outdoors and feels so refreshing.  Yesterday, two of our sons moved a king size mattress from the basement to the garage - pickup will be Friday is trash day.  Then, they drove a temporpedic  mattress over here (son had an extra almost new mattress) and brought that to the basement also with two box springs.  So, I have scheduled an special pickup on Friday and Don and I should be able to push that old king mattress and two box springs out to the end of the driveway.  Thank heaven for our children - our boys are always so helpful.  We have a walk-out basement that is nice and sunny but one has to walk either down stairs indoors or over rocks on the side of the house. l

Janet:  I am going through the closet and have stuff to donate. Would it help to soak your feet in cool water?

We watched a hawk sit on the fence and she was pretty noisy - feasting on a little critter.  Another hawk was swooping down all the time - it was so noisy outside.  Interesting - the girl kept the guy away from her meal. 

All is not well here - we have several serious health issues including children - job issues and so forth.  Every morning, I am so comforted to know that there is a purpose and I am not in control. 


Janet

Carol, there have been many, many times when I have thanked God that He is in control and not I!!  He's the only one who knows best how to handle all our problems and concerns; and the wonderful part is--he loves us and wants the best for us and our loved ones!  Try to pray and love your kids and grandkids without taking their problems on your shoulders, for we cannot handle them anyway.  Love you!

I don't think soaking my feet would help the pain, but it might be worth a try.
The steri strips are still on one incision, on left ankle.  I had so much pain last night!  Don't understand why I have more pain now than the days right after surgery.  Feels like things are just waking up.

Larry, if we had an IHOP closer than 60 miles from us, we probably would go eat some 60c pancakes!  ;)

Today is the day I have to be at the fair to accept entries.  I have on my compressions, and hope I can make it through without too much pain. First thing I need to do is get the stuff I have to donate out of the car. If library or Main Artery doesn't want the books I saved, they will join the rest in the dumpster. They are NOT going back to my studio.

Larry, I am trying to learn to be more like you, in not being too concerned about things I cannot change, and in resting when I feel my body needs it.
I'm realizing I cannot keep up the pace as I've lived for many years, and do look forward to a more peaceful life, with fewer obligations.

Abby is coming home on Friday!!  Will be so good to see her!  They are having a late Birthday Brunch for her on Saturday, then she heads back to K State for two weeks of training for her job as RA at the apartments where she will live this term.

I need to get going.  My job starts at two but I have those things to get rid of before then, and then maybe rest a bit before going out, because once there, I have to stay until after 7!  And then tomorrow the judging starts at 9, and I'll be there the entire day.  But I'm skipping out on Saturday because I want to see my granddaughter!!   ;)  Someone else can handle releasing the exhibits this time!
My book Rising Above available at JanetDamon.com

Larry Hanna

Hi Everyone.  This day is starting out sunny and will get to about 90 degrees this afternoon with only a small chance of rain.  Our main activity for today will be going to dinner tonight at the Church.  Scott is not going to be joining us as he has to work again as they have a couple of employees on vacation.  Yesterday for lunch we did go to IHOP for the pancakes and added some sausage to go with them.  They were good and certainly filling. 

Carol, it sounds like you will have a nice comfortable bed in your basement.  I hope you and Don don't have any trouble getting the old one and box springs to the street.  Hawks must not be sharing creatures and probably was hungry.  Sorry you are having things not being well there.  I know it is hard not to worry but I have found that accomplishes nothing and things eventually work out even if not the way I wanted them to be. 

Janet, you are so right about God being in control.  Often just loving the other person is really all we can do.  Perhaps the pain has something to do with the nerve healing.  I hope your day went well at the fair and you didn't have to be on your feet too much.  Glad to read you are trying to rest when your body tells you it needs the rest.  We now lead a pretty simple but enjoyable life and have replaced the things we no longer can do with other things that we can and that we enjoy.  The treadmill eventually gets to us and we need to step off and take slower and shorter steps.  I hope you can have some quality time with Abby.  She will likely have a lot to tell you about her summer mission activities.  Good for you in letting someone else release the exhibits. 

JudyB

When you bump into someone who is a bit out of fellowship, and has little conversation about God, you can be sure of one thing..they are not spending time before God in prayer, they are not waiting upon Him.
You see, when you start missing prayer, you don't see much difference at first, and you go on thinking that it's ok, life is no different, but the rot has set in and you are in trouble, and will sometimes go quite a long way without praying, but like Christian in Pilgrim's Progress you will have to eventually turn back, and begin again where you lost the Grace.
Backsliders drift away gradually usually, at first there is little sign, then slowly but surely you notice the difference, their subject of conversation changes, asking them if God is blessing them brings a vague response, they no longer seem able to quote scripture, the joy is either gone or forced, the peace they once knew has flown and instead a heaviness is there. They are in grave danger of committing a serious sin at this point and being ashamed, staying away from fellowship altogether.
This is when they need someone to come alongside, and actually confront them with their slackness.
Hard as it may be, confrontation can be the deliverance that they need, scripture speaks of personal confrontation if a brother or sister sins against you, and it works in backsliding too, if you are brave enough to confront them and they will not have it that their life is not what it should be and that they are in danger, then take someone with you, someone sympathetic toward them, and both of you offer to pray for them until they can repent and pray for themselves.
Do not judge..but take heed to yourself.
Continue earnestly in prayer, honestly laying yourself bare before Christ and you may never get to this dangerous place.
It is so easy to fool ourselves that we are ok, but our prayer lives will either console us or convict us.


JudyB

Well this has been quite the month. The funeral was on the 7th, and what a time that was for everyone.  However as she was a believer I know she is in the presence of the Almighty. She is healed, and can again walk run and dance......
I am so thankful the coroner said "natural causes". Anything else would have finished her dad.  Jon (Heather's hubby) is not dealing with the death well.  Please pray for him.  Heather is struggling, however she has started grief counseling. 
Last weekend the 14th we had a shower for Kassie, the strangest shower I have been to, we had a good time, much of it remembering Kimi.
The weekend of the 28th we are having Elizabeth's wedding.  Kassie's wedding is the 22nd of September.
Between the funeral and weddings we are busier than ever before. and there is so much sadness to deal with as well.

I'm sorry I haven't been back in to update the thoughts page for July.  It is now past the middle of the month, so I will wait and we can start a new page in August.


Carol

Remembering the time I was a volunteer chaplain at  a hospital and how everyone had a different reaction when facing death of a family member.  We were taught to accept anyone's reaction.  It was the most interesting part of walking the halls the nights we volunteers stayed over and all of us were very glad to be secure with our love of The Lord.

Thankful for having a place to come (here) to continue to listen and learn more through the years. 

Judy:  I always believe that when something sad happens, there are other incidents to keep our minds focused on our good lives and how we adjust and learn.  Good for you! 

Janet:  Thanks, I didn't mean to dump issues - everything will be resolved and I am not the one to chose when.   Are you supposed to elevate your feet?  I hope you find relief very soon. 

Today, we picked up our dear neighbor and took her for a coffee - then we unloaded all the donations from our trunk to Salvation Army and further to the veggie store.  She had a small and easy phone problem Don was able to fix.  We sure miss her husband - he was a positive Bible quoting guy! She is doing very well and a positive friend.   



Larry Hanna

Hi Everyone.  We are expecting to get to only 85 degrees this afternoon and a 50% chance of more rain.  Everything is very green here at the moment.  The only thing on my schedule for today is to pick up my friend and we will go to coffee for an hour.  Then I plan on a quiet day.  I was tried all day yesterday and today seems to be starting the same.  Late yesterday morning Scott came out for a little while as he had to work last night.  While he was here he got his mother's printer going again. 

Pat and I went to the dinner at the Church last evening and had forgotten it started at 6 pm rather than 5:30 as usual.  One of the families that sit at our table had forgotten also so we had a nice change to just sit and visit.  We had a good meal and following that the 40 teens and adults that worked on the mission project here this week stood in front of the group and a member from each team discussed what they have and will continue to do to work on the four homes.  There was no charge for the dinner and the folks in attendance were asked to donate toward needs for the homes that the money United Way had provided didn't cover or couldn't be used for.  One of the needs was a window air conditioner.  They had already had donated a stove and four new mattresses.  They had a list of things for each house they would like to have and people could sign up to donate towels and other like items as several of the bathrooms were being worked on.  It was a very nice evening. 

My new corkscrew came in the mail yesterday so I decided to open the bottle of wine and have a sherry size glass of it.  I found out I had no clue as to how to use the corkscrew.  However, I did a search and found a video of the exact item being demonstrated and it showed how the tool was to be used.  So I got the bottle open and had the wine. 

Judy, thanks for sharing the devotional thoughts.  I am sure this is a month that will long be in your memories with the funeral and then the upcoming wedding, which should be happy times for you all.  Glad to see that Heather has started grief counseling.  Our Church has a grief counseling small group meeting weekly.  Keeping busy isn't a bad thing. 

Carol, I don't remember you speaking of your volunteer chaplain work at the hospital.  I know how much I have appreciated the help of the hospice chaplain and at other times when my father passed away or when I have been in the hospital. 

Carol

I came back in because I had to go back and read last weeks posts.  k

Larry:  As only a volunteer, I would spend the night in a large hospital - on call.  We took turns and slept on a bed next to the Sleep Disorder area - and yes, it was funny to think about it.  Loved it and learned so much from sitting with Jews and Adventists at times and real Atheists. Main issue was to listen and see to their needs even if one wanted to smoke a cigarette then I found a place outdoors to ease their anxiety.  We had a separate room to bring in a few people - to make phone calls or just talk.  I wish I could be there again.   

Janet

It's been rough around here these past two days!
Darrel was in intense pain with what we thought were muscle spasms in his right side from 10 Wed. morning until I took him to the hospital at 2 Thursday morning, and continues to be when the pain meds wear off a little.  They first thought kidney stones; then pneumonia; then pulmonary effusion (fluids outside the lung); then last night they had him NPO again for more tests this morning, are suspecting gall bladder problems.  Poor guy.  He has a very low pain tolerance and is just exhausted from it all.

Meanwhile, I was supposed to be at the fair, and I was running back and forth; my ankles hurting like fire.  Left incision is open and weeping stuff; I had a nurse look at it and she said to get myself back to Garden to the surgeon, that it's not only open but very deep, with danger of getting infection in the bone, which could lead to an amputation of my foot!. :o :'(
I have called daughter Diane and she will drive me to Garden this morning, it cannot wait until after the weekend!  Please pray for all of us.  I'm trusting God to take care of all these issues as only He knows how to do!  So thankful for His love....and for yours, as well.
My book Rising Above available at JanetDamon.com

Jacqueline

Healing Prayer of Surrender

Dear Lord Jesus, it is my will to surrender to you everything that I am and everything that I'm striving to be. I open the deepest recesses of my heart and invite your Holy Spirit to dwell inside of me.

I offer you my life, heart, mind, body, soul, spirit, all my hopes, plans and dreams. I surrender to you my past, present and future problems, habits, character defects, attitudes, livelihood, resources, finances, medical coverage, occupation and all my relationships.

I give you my health, physical appearance, disabilities, family, marriage, children and friendships. I ask you to take Lordship over every aspect of my life. I surrender to you all my hurt, pain, worry, doubt, fear and anxiety, and I ask you to wash me clean.

I release everything into your compassionate care. Please speak to me clearly, Lord. Open my ears to hear your voice. Open my heart to commune with you more deeply. I want to feel your loving embrace. Open the doors that need to be opened and close the doors that need to be closed. Please set my feet upon the straight and narrow road that leads to everlasting life. Amen.


" there is no such thing as an ending, only a place where you leave the story "
~ Muriel Donnelly

Larry Hanna

Hi Everyone. The morning starts out overcast with possible showers later today.  The lawn people started working in our neighborhood around 7 am this morning and mowed our backyard around 7:45.  They seem to be way behind this week as they are suppose to do the lawn on Tuesday and Wednesdays.  Not life's biggest problem. I didn't a  accomplish anything yesterday other than to do quite a bit of reading and listening to the audio book.  Other than going to coffee I stayed home all day and I think today I will probably stay home all day as still have no energy.  I do have the dishwasher emptied and dishes put away and things set out for Pat's breakfast when she gets up.  I did dig in the freezer and found the tilapia fillets that she plans to fix for our evening meal.   

Carol, it sounds like you were very helpful to people at the time of crisis when you worked as a volunteer chaplain. 

Janet, so sorry to read that Darrel is having so much pain.  If it is his gall bladder I hope they do the surgery before it bursts.  My mother had hers burst and it isn't a pleasant thing to deal with.  I hope his tests today give them the answer so he can find relief.  Pain is certainly exhausting.  It sounds like you have an emergency and hope someone else will fill in for you with the duties at the fair.  You must take care of yourself as you sure don't want infection and you must have been on your feet too much to have this setback. I have prayed for you and Darrel just now and will keep you both in my thoughts and prayers today. 

Jackie, thanks for sharing the "Healing Prayer of Surrender".  It outlines a pattern of life that we all should strive for in our lives.   

Pat

Hi all of my good friends on CP...  <3

I had a very long post almost ready to post when my computer decided to shut down and all is gone!

I wanted to let you all know that I've appreciated your private messages, cards and lovely words of encouragement I've received.  It's been a long journey (almost 3 years now) and I'll just have to leave this for now as I can't even remember all that was in my long post.

Just love you all and special thoughts of love to Judy and John at this time of losing a precious granddaughter and of course Heather and Jon.

Thank you Judy for all the updates when I was unable to post.

Love

Pat... :)

"Click for Waterloo Wellington, Ontario Forecast"

Larry Hanna

Hi Everyone. It looks like we will be having rain on and off throughout the day and evening.  I think this going to be a good day as I felt like getting up this morning.  I had my shower and shaved and then laid back down for close to an hour and read my emails and the postings in the discussions as well as the various devotional materials I read each morning.  Then got up, got dressed, folded a some towels and other things that were in the dryer and unloaded the dishwasher.  So I was ready to sit down and have my breakfast, which I am now doing.  I plan on attending a meeting this morning and on the way home I will pick up an online grocery order from Walmart and then make a very quick stop at Aldi's for about three items.  That will be it for today.

Pat, so nice to see your posting and sure hope it means you are getting some strength back and are in less pain. So sorry you lost your long post. 

Carol

Pat:  It is such a treat to read your post this morning.  Prayers for your continued health recovery. 

Larry Hanna

Hi Everyone.Hi everyone.  A beautiful day with it getting to the low 90's this afternoon.  We did get another 1/2 inch of rain during the night.  Today will be Sunday School and then expect to come home and get Pat so we can attend Church.  We will not eat out at noon as plan on going out to eat this evening with Scott as he has today off. 

Jacqueline

#145
On your Special Day Ruth Ann Bice and a very Belated Birthday to Judy and John B...

" there is no such thing as an ending, only a place where you leave the story "
~ Muriel Donnelly

Larry Hanna

#146
Hi Everyone.  I just got inside from taking a letter to the mail box and now notice it is raining so had good timing.  We are suppose to have rain and possible storms throughout the day and for the next several days.  Our high is suppose to be 86, not bad for the end of July. 

We had a very nice day yesterday.  I went to Sunday School and then came home and got Pat and we attended Church.  Then we stopped at McDonald's for a quick sandwich as we were both tired.  I rested in the afternoon and then Scott came out and we went to a Mexican restaurant for our dinner.  He then visited with us a couple of hours.  Nothing on my schedule for today so will just do a few little chores I see that can be done and probably rest and read a lot today.  I don't plan on going anywhere.  We are planning to have hamburgers for our dinner this evening and a salad and I don't know what else Pat will want to have.

Happy Birthday to Ruth Ann and also to Judy and John.  These years really roll by quickly. 

Jackie, that is a beautiful birthday card to posted.  I hope you will have a good week.  Is this the week for your monthly social evening get together?

Janet, I just checked your Facebook page and saw the picture of Darrel and your posting.  Is Darrel feeling better and what about your leg?  Has your work at the fair ended? 

Jacqueline

#147
Larry Hanna...
...no, believe it is the fallowing Wednesday...we have a skittles MS social evening coming up, which is to be held at another venue which is adding on another five plus miles journey added onto the already 30 - 31 miles journey... Because of our forever hot summer spell ( UK has not been seeing any rains as such, we are in a " what seems like a forever draught, " and will continue Into September, ) I am drinking lots and lots of water ( was told to drink water for my swelling feet Oedema ) of which I am literately back and forth to the loo to squeeze my MS bladder, my bladder acts differently to how it used to act..The more water and teas I drink, the more I am back and forth, and as soon as I finish one emptying - drizzling session, I am repeating it all over again...this fills me with dread doing a 36 miles car journey with no stop - off loo's in sight...I will have to cut back on the day my fluids intake if this heatwave of ours carries on...
" there is no such thing as an ending, only a place where you leave the story "
~ Muriel Donnelly

Ruth Ann Bice

well, a left handed post is hard. i loved the birthday greetings.

i am caught up with all posts 

love to all 
ruth ann
...his compassions fail not.  They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness.


Larry Hanna

Hi Everyone. It is overcast this morning but today is suppose to not get aboave 86 degrees with a good possibility of more rain this afternoon.  As I expected yesterday was a very quiet day and today may be the same except a friend will be here at 10 am to work with me on something for an hour.  I sort of expect tonight will be a TV dinner night. 

Jackie, thanks for the info on your next MS social gaterhings  Sorry to read you are having the heat wave and getting no rain.  My part of the country has been blessed this year with hot weather but quite a bit of rain.  Here it is the end of July and everything is still nice and green and I have watered my lawn only twice all season.  The last few days have stayed in the 80's, which has been nice. 

Ruth Ann, sorry to see you are still having to write left handed but appreciate your stopping in to say hi.  I do hope you are doing better. 

Carol

Ruth Ann:  Nice to see your post.  I do hope your hand mends soon.  Belated Happy Birthday to you. 

The rain came yesterday after months of drought.  It did bring mudslides in some areas where the hills are so steep so that is a mess and problem too.  The air is so clear and heavy with moisture today - something very welcome on this unusual year.  We heard the western slope crop of peaches is damaged due to a fungus and they are painting the bark on the young trees to try to save a future crop. 

I have a quilt meeting tonight and just am not in the mood to go - Don has two friends coming to play Cribbage so I need to get out of here.  A good friend of ours has taken in a granddaughter - our friend is considered elderly.  That is quite an undertaking and huge change to have a teenager in her house again.  I am praying for her health. 

Larry Hanna

Hi Everyone. There are storms predicted for our area today but they may miss us as they did yesterday.  It is to be another day in the 80's.  The only thing on the schedule for today is we plan on going out for our main meal around lunch time and then Scott plans on coming over this evening for a couple of hours.  I just finished fixing Pat's breakfast and had already emptied the dish washer.  I also folded up some kitchen towels and other related type items.  Other than fill my pill boxes for 2 weeks and take out the trash a little later I don't really have much else I expect to do today. Yesterday was just a nice quiet day of rest. 

Carol, glad you got some rain but too bad about the mudslides and the harm to the peach crop.  I sure feel for grandparents who have to take on the responsibility of raising grandchildren but there is a lot of that occurring and perhaps always has.   

Carol

We had flood warnings along with severe hail damage near our area yesterday - the cell phone alerts us.  So, there was no way anyone was going to drive across town for the quilt gathering.  This may occur in the afternoon today as well. 

Reading daily "Jesus Always" and "Jesus Calling was the first one I read.  Nice to start the day.    I cleaned and oiled my neighbor's sewing machine and it still has a loud sound to it probably for not being used in ages.  We had a nice two-hour visit anyway.   :)

Chicken soup is in the crock pot.  We have already had two meals out of that chicken and now there is still a lot of meat & bone to simmer. 


Larry Hanna

Hi Everyone.  Late last evening we had a nice rain and it was perfect timing as the lawn people were here just yesterday.  It is to get to the low 90's again today but only a slight chance of rain.  I will go to coffee, after a brief stop at Walmart for a prescription, and then picking up my friend at the retirement home.  Yesterday didn't really turn out much like I thought it might.  We decided to not go out to eat (maybe will do so today) and although Scott came over he stayed for only maybe 30 minutes or so as he had been fighting a migraine headache all day long and he thought it was better when he came over but it came back after he got here. 

Carol, glad you avoided the hail as know you have already been down that path a couple of times in years past.  I don't have either of the two devotional books you mentioned although I think Pat does have one of them.  I know they are sometimes the source of our Sunday School devotional readings.  The chicken soup sound delicious.  Pat will make that often when we have had a couple of meals from one of the rotisserie chickens we get at Costco and there is still a lot of meat left on the bones.   

Carol

It is quiet before another storm.  Yesterday, we watched a car disappear (on the news) into a massive sink hole that was right on a street.  Fortunately, the driver was rescued. 

Larry:  The fat baked chickens from COSTCO yield at least three meals plus a sandwich or two. It is a bargain.   There is a two quart container of soup in the fridge.  Glad that you like it too.  Sorry that Scott had a severe headache - do you think it could be an allergy? 

Jacqueline

Where is Janet, are you ok....
" there is no such thing as an ending, only a place where you leave the story "
~ Muriel Donnelly

Larry Hanna

#156
Hi Everyone.  Our high temperature is suppose to get to 90 degrees again today with the possibility of more afternoon showers.  We did have a nice shower yesterday right after noon.  We had decided to wait until mid-afternoon to go to Wifesaver's for our main meal of the day and by then the rains were over.  Today the housekeeper will be here and that is all that is on the schedule.  I don't expect to go anywhere today.  I am well into an ebook and another audio book so will probably spend time on both today. 

Carol, I saw the pictures of that car as it suddenly sank into the sink hole.  Certainly glad they were able to rescue the driver.  We usually have about the same experience as you with the Costco chicken.  The last time I got the rotisserie chicken strips and they worked very well for us and avoided having to deal with the chicken bones. 

Jackie, I have been concerned about Janet as well.  I know Darrel was in the hospital and she had the county fair to deal with as well as the surgery site in her lower leg breaking open and was in a lot of pain.  I keep hoping each morning to see a posting from her. I just looked at her Facebook page and she had posted about 8 hours ago saying they were home.  I will let her explain her situation but if you do Facebook you can just search for her and see her posting.   

Jacqueline

Larry Hanna...
...no, I dont do facebook but, happy you came across a posting from Janet, it puts my mind more at ease...
" there is no such thing as an ending, only a place where you leave the story "
~ Muriel Donnelly

Janet

#158
Jackie, here I am!  Thanks for asking!  What a week we have had!  In the middle of all the work at the county fair, Darrel suddenly started having terrible pain in his upper right side.  Thinking it was the ribs that pop out of place sometimes, he had 3 chiropractic treatments in two days, by Wednesday night, he stood up all night holding onto the kitchen counter, groaning in pain, unable to sit or lie down.  I kept asking him what he wanted to do, he didn't give me any answers.  Finally, at 1:00 AM, he said, "I can't stand it!  You've got to do something!"  My response was that I'd been trying to do something all night!  I told him he had to go to the hospital, but he said he couldn't get in the car because he couldn't sit down!  Call the EMTs!  I told him they couldn't haul him standing up, either, and the first thing they would do, before leaving the driveway, would be put in an IV, delaying his relief even longer!

By 2:00 AM I got him in the car and took him to the ER here in Ulysses.  They put in an IV and got orders for pain meds, so he could get some relief.
Called the PA on call, took him for a scan, which showed fluid in his lung, possible pneumonia.  Other guesses were kidney stones, gall stones, and two or three other things I can't remember now.  PA asked if he could admit him to hospital and watch him for a day or two, and Darrel agreed. 

After they got him settled in a room and he seemed more comfortable, it was around 7 AM Thursday.  The rooms we'd been in for hours were as cold as meat lockers and I was chilled to the bone!  I came home, took a hot shower and washed my hair, then slept for about two hours.  Went to check on him, he was still having pain; they were still doing tests.  I went out to the fair and told them I'd probably not be able to finish my duties, found people to cover for me.  The hot shower had soaked the steri strips off my ankle wound and it was open and oozing; so the next time I was at the hospital I had a nurse look at it.  She said it was open, deep, and I was in danger of getting infection in the bone and losing my foot!  :o  Not something you want to hear!  She said for me to get myself back to the surgeon in Garden City and get it taken care of asap!  Sigh....

Well, not knowing what they would do in GC, I called my daughter Diane and asked if she could drive me to the app't I had made.  She did, it wasn't that bad, they just said to do wet-to-dry dressings every day (something it turned out to be difficult to do by myself, very awkward.)  Anyway....We were halfway to Garden City when the hospital called to say they were transferring Darrel from Ulysses to Garden via ambulance, as he was still in horrible pain and they don't have the personnel or facilities to take care of him.  I told them we were already halfway there and to tell Darrel I would meet him there.  We did; they were just moving him into ICU, for possible chest tube placement.  Soon after that was done, the surgeon told us it wasn't going to work, as the fluid around (not in) the lung was too thick and sticky to drain.  He said he isn't an expert on the kind of surgery needed next and recommended calling Eagle Med to fly Darrel to Wichita!  I agreed; they were called from Dodge City; and I kept asking if I could fly with him, not getting an answer.  Finally, the nurse who was making the arrangements came in and asked me how much I weigh, I said 150# and she said, "You can go!"  If I'd been really big, I couldn't have!  It took a while for them to arrive, get him and the equipment on the gurney, go via ambulance out to the airport, load him on the plane; then about 55 minute flight to Wichita airport, then via ambulance to Via Christi Hospital.

I looked at the time as they were getting him into bed; it was around 8:00 PM.  I had gone to Garden with Diane without a purse, a credit card, checks, only some money in my pocket to buy Diane's and my lunch!!  Of course, no pills, no change of clothes, etc.  So, for the first two nights, I sat in a terribly uncomfortable recliner in his room in the CTICU, getting a few snatches of sleep. 

On Saturday, he had a big surgery, involving a 9 inch incision, removal of part of his right lung, because of a huge abcess on it, taking out over a liter of infected fluid around the lung, and installing two separate drain tubes. He was really miserable afterward, but the initial pain was gone.  They all told him that once the chest tubes came out, he would feel much, much better.

On Saturday night, my faithful Diane brought me what I needed from home, as they had to go to Manhattan and help Abby move.  So I was able to get a room at the 316 Motel across the street from the hospital.  What a relief (and there's another story about that, for another post!)

They took out the chest tubes on Wednesday, and he did feel much better, was able to walk better, etc.  And on Thursday morning, they said he could leave in an hour and a half!!!  I said, "No, he can't, because I don't have a car here, and my daughter has a 4 hour drive to get here!"  They said as long as she was on the way, we could leave when she got there!  And that's enough of that long story for today!  He is doing well, with my help.  And I'm okay, too.  ;)
My book Rising Above available at JanetDamon.com

Jacqueline

Janet...
...oh what a nightmare week you both had, one you dont ever want repeated...as they say..." we never know what is waiting for us round that next corner " and it certainly rings true with that age old adage of..." no two days are ever the same..." sending a :grouphug: now you need to take care of you and your leg wound...
" there is no such thing as an ending, only a place where you leave the story "
~ Muriel Donnelly

Ruth Ann Bice

i am sad to learn of janet and their problems.

so good to hear all comments.

may our lord bless us as we need his comfort daily.

love to all.

ruth ann
...his compassions fail not.  They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness.


Larry Hanna

#161
Hi Everyone.  It looks like we are in for another hot and humid day with not much likelihood of any rain.  This was one of those morning I didn't want to arise and get going.  The only thing I plan to do today, besides the morning chores in the kitchen and getting Pat's breakfast, is to attend a meeting this morning.  I hope to watch some golf later this afternoon.  About the only thing I completed yesterday was to finish the ebook I was reading and also listen to a couple of hours of my audio book.  We did get a very pleasant and unexpected surprise yesterday when I got the mail as there was a check in the mail from our local hospital for a sizeable amount marked as having been a refund.  There was no indication what it related to and I have to wonder if an audit was performed on last year showing we had been over billed.  I don't expect the mail to be as friendly today. 

Janet, it was certainly good to see your posting this morning and my what an ordeal for Darrel and for you.  He, at least got to lay down while in the hospital.  Hopefully much better days are ahead for both of you in getting healed up and able to resume your normal lives.  I sure hope you both feel better everyday and so glad the infection hadn't started in your leg before you had it checked out.  So glad that if this had to happen it was before you were away on your mission trip. 

Jackie and Ruth Ann, I join you in being relieved to see that Darrel and Janet are back home.

Jacqueline

Larry Hanna...
...remember the well known Idiom of...

" never look a gift horse in the mouth.."

Now how are you going to spend your unexpected windfall?
" there is no such thing as an ending, only a place where you leave the story "
~ Muriel Donnelly

Carol

Janet:  Such a trial for you and Darrel.  I have heard too many stories of mis-diagnosis  lately and great that the doctors found the cause of pain.  I have never heard of that problem before you wrote this message.  Our neighbor and friend had a sudden surgery for a gall bladder removal.  He is doing fine after a lenghty wait at admission - that was so wrong for an emergency station. 

Our weekly greeting from the USAF - fly boys - just came through.  Always a treat (to me) to know they are on duty. 

Reading about the terrible fires in California and I just saw my brother on Facebook - he is a volunteer fireman in the eastern Washington area.  Fires have started there too. 


Janet

Thank you, Ruth Ann!  I know you have a hand problem and are typing with only one hand.  So sweet of you to think of us!

Larry, Jackie, and Carol--thanks to all of you, as well.  We are doing pretty well, I think.  Got Darrel showered this morning; changed his bandages, but he was too tired for me to cut his hair, will get that done later.  And he really needs to shave!  ;)  Then he will look much better as well as feeling better!

I asked John to make a quick trip to the store for bread and some pills Darrel needed.  He (John) had come out to bring me more that he wrote for the book, and he's always happy to help out.  He watered for us and took care of the cat while we were gone; called me every day with reports.  :)

Carol, I surely had never heard of this problem before, either!  So painful! The fires are so devastating!  And floods in other areas!  This old world is being shaken!

Larry, what a nice surprise windfall!!  Happy for you!  That doesn't happen often, for sure!  We got the bill for the air transport to Wichita already---$47,500.00!!!  So glad we purchased the insurance!  Like you, I finished an ebook on my phone yesterday.  I was so tired I told Darrel I needed to sit down and rest, he said, "Well, sit!"  :)  (I wasn't asking permission!   :lol:) So while sitting, I read.

My month as "guest artist" at The main Artery starts on Tuesday, which means a lot of work for me to get paintings chosen for display, make sure the frames are clean and have proper wire for hanging, etc.  They want 15 to 25 pieces for that.  All the press releases have already been sent.  So guess what I will be working on this afternoon?  I had the best night's sleep last night I've had since this nightmare with Darrel began; but I'm still feeling tired.  Guess I need more than one night to catch up!

I wish you all a wonderful day!
My book Rising Above available at JanetDamon.com

Larry Hanna

Hi Everyone.Hi everyone.  It is a bright and sunny morning with some possibility of rain later today.  The only thing on my schedule for today is Church this morning.  Pat will not be going as she has been fighting a cold for the last two or three days.  After Church I will pick up something to eat for our main meal of the day.  I did attend my meeting yesterday morning and then stopped at Arby's for lunch and the rest of the day was pretty quiet.  I did prepare the salads for our salad dinner last night. 

Jackie, I do remember that Idiom and often use it.  I am putting those extra, unexpected funds, into the savings account I use to pay our taxes and insurance on the house.  The taxes are once a year and the insurance is once a year except for the car which is every six months.  Both require a fair outlay of funds to pay. 

Carol, I didn't really understand your weekly greeting from the USAF?  Is this a general newsletter from the USAF.  Do you have relatives in the Air Force?  I don't remember you speaking of having that situation.  Sorry to hear the fires have now started in eastern Washington and having your brother back on the firelines. 

Janet, I am sure not shaving isn't a very important thing for Darrel and since he isn't out and about there is no rush.  However, I am sure the shower felt mighty good.  I am glad John was faithful to what he said he would do and kept in close contact with you while you were so far away.  Since we have access to good hospitals not more than 6 or 7 miles from us we should never need to be transported by air to another hospital but I knew we should probably never say never.  Glad to see you sat down to rest and please don't push yourself too hard as it sounds like you might be getting back on that "gerbil wheel".  I know it must be a nice honor to have your painting featured at the Artery. 




Janet

Larry, it looks as if you have been the lone sentinel here in our CP site today!  But now I'm here, too!   :)

Darrel didn't feel up to going to church this morning, so we just took it easy.
He did let me cut his hair, but hasn't shaved yet.  Since he needs to see the doctor tomorrow, he will probably shave tonight or in the morning.  He's still having significant pain and eating next to nothing.  But he is getting up without any help and walking without using the walker.

Our church had a fellowship dinner today, so John called me when service was out and I drove in and picked up food for us.  Darrel ate a very few bites of it.  It was nice to see and greet some of my friends there. 

I got my paintings rounded up and cleaned; took them in and we got them hung; so that's one worry off my list!   I'm really trying not to get over-burdened again.  Really.   8)

I hope everyone is enjoying a restful Sunday.
My book Rising Above available at JanetDamon.com

Larry Hanna

Hi Everyone.  We have another overcast morning with only a low percentage chance of rain today.  Yesterday we had some thunder but no showers in our neighborhood.  It looks like we will stay in the upper 80's this afternoon.  The weather forecast says we are in for very heavy rains this week. We had a very good Sunday School and Church Service yesterday.  Our new Associate Minister gave an excellent sermon, the first time he preached in our Church, as our regular pastor was up in North Carolina on a well earned weeks vacation last week.  My calendar is clear for today other than getting Pat's breakfast when she arises this morning.

Janet, I am glad I am up to posting here each day and helping keep this discussion active.  I keep hoping some new people will join with us but am thankful for those who do participate, even if they are not able to leave a posting everyday. It would have been pushing things a bit for Darrel to try to go to Church yesterday after what he has been through in the last few days.  We don't realize how much energy some of the things we do without thinking about them, such as shaving takes.  Just being in bed in the hospital for several days does a number on ones energy plus the trauma of the pain and surgery.  Also if he is eating very little that would impact his energy, as I am sure you know.  It does sound like each day he is making improvement.  Nice of your Church to share their fellowship dinner with you yesterday.  Glad to read your painting exhibition preparation is completed and hope you will be able to find some period of time just for Janet this week to recharge your batteries. 


Larry Hanna

I had to come back and share this link to a wonderful and inspiring video I just watched.  It will inspire you and hope help make your day.  It is called "the Wisest Person I Ever Met". 

Click Here


Jacqueline

Oh Larry Hanna...how my face and smile changed when he told the story of the loss of his wife...I so wasn't expecting that...
" there is no such thing as an ending, only a place where you leave the story "
~ Muriel Donnelly

Janet

Larry, thanks for sharing that.  It puts my present problems into perspective, for sure.  "How am I living?"  I'll try to remember that question often.

I finally succeeded in getting hold of Darrel's doctor this morning, and got a 3:30 appointment for him---YEA!!

AND.....I finished the book Walking Beth Home yesterday!  Now I have to figure out how to transmit it to the publisher as a Word Document.  Always new problems to conquer.  I just remembered that I want to do a dedication for it, also.

Inch by inch, the things a cinch........so they say!  So I need to go make an inch worth of progress!   ;)
My book Rising Above available at JanetDamon.com

Ruth Ann Bice

good morning.

i'm thankful that this site is still active, too.

our apartments are being renovated so i have to  move to a motel for 8-10 weeks. this happens friday.  i hope i can stay in touch.

love to all
ruth ann

...his compassions fail not.  They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness.


Jacqueline

Janet...
...I really like the title you have given it, it has a twist to it...as walking is now one of our hardest things to do, as we are no longer in control of it anymore...I am more than sure Beth made the journey by placing one foot in front of the other...Yes she " walked " back home....
" there is no such thing as an ending, only a place where you leave the story "
~ Muriel Donnelly

Carol

Ruth Ann:  I sure hope that you will have wi-fi as we almost come to expect it at a motel anymore.  Take care and continue to keep in touch as much as possible. 

This brother is a volunteer fireman and he drives a water truck plus does mop up - washing down the areas after the guys have been raking, etc.  He had to drive out very suddenly because the fire came up so fast - it sure peaked his adrenaline.  Last year, he spent an entire night hosing down a house and they saved a house so he does what he can - retired now and a volunteer , he usually goes to car accidents. 

Larry:  I love planes and Don was Air Force - I like to call it my personal greeting. 

Janet:  That is a horrible bill for an air transport.  I hope your insurance covers most of that bill.We carry evacuation insurance too but most people don't.  Glad that Darrel is home recovering. 

I had to take a break from sewing another quilt.  It keeps getting larger. 



JudyB

Well Good afternoon folks.

The wedding went off without a hitch.  Elizabeth Martin looked lovely.  The 2 wee girls were wonderful.  We have welcomed Rob Martin into the family.

Had an accidental call from Pat last night.  She was going outside to pick some blackberries and encountered a skunk.  She backed up quickly and fell.  In doing so she avoided being sprayed.....and broke her wrist!  She has been through so much that this almost feels like the last straw.  Again Please pray for Pat. 

I can't get over the ingratitude of some people.....you give and give and give....and they are offended when we stop giving! Oh well God knows the dilemma!  It is iin his hands.

God bless you all.  I will change the page on Wednesday.


Janet

So sorry to hear of Pat's latest mishap!  Hope that wrist heals miraculously fast!!  Yes, Ingratitude is really a bad thing.  Judy, who took Pat to the Dr. or hospital?  I know you live a long way from her, so am wondering.

Ruth Ann, I surely hope, too, that you have a good internet connection!
Sorry you're being "displaced" for a time, but hope your "spiffed-up" apartment will be worth the hassle!   <3

Carol, I remember you said "No more queen sized quilts!"  What size is this one growing to be?

I took Darrel to our primary doctor today, and he said he doesn't really even need any rehab, as he is doing remarkably well!!  Praise God!!

Jackie, Beth wanted to walk again, so much!  She hadn't been able to walk in nearly 20 years!  Now she's running free!!  No more restrictions at all!
My book Rising Above available at JanetDamon.com

Jacqueline

Janet...
...yes, Beth " walked " towards God, and He set her to " run " free....

Judy...
...you have heard of that expression..." you give someone an inch and they will take a yard - mile.."
" there is no such thing as an ending, only a place where you leave the story "
~ Muriel Donnelly

Larry Hanna

Hi Everyone.  Tuesday starts out overcast once again with a high percentage likelihood of rain this afternoon. It is suppose to stay in the mid-80's today.  I have something I need to do at 10 am for an hour this morning and then, if Pat feels up to it we will probably go to Cheddars again for our main meal of the day.  Nothing of note happened yesterday and the day of rest was appreciated. 

Janet, I enjoyed the humor but also the wisdom expressed in that speech.  I don't know when it was given but I hadn't seen it before.  That was a good report from Darrel's doctor and nice that he doesn't have to go through PT.  Did you have to format your books in a certain way in terms of margins, etc?  If it is a Word document I would think you should be able to email it to the publisher or perhaps furnish it on a thumb drive.  I do hope you have your manuscript backed up in a couple of places.  Facing life just a step at a time does make the difficult doable and not so overwhelming. 

Ruth Ann, I am sure you will appreciate a renovated apartment but having to live in a motel for 8-10 weeks sure isn't a pleasant thought.  At least you should have housekeeping services.  Will you have a kitchenette.  I hope you get one with a very comfortable bed.  Does everything have to be moved out of your apartment?

Carol, your brother does valuable work and sure glad he isn't having to do the manual work of handling the fire hose and spraying it on the fire or the other duties like the raking.  Obviously the fire fighters get satisfaction from their efforts to help others.  Do you have a large sewing table to help handle your quilts as they get larger?

Judy, glad the wedding was enjoyed as it is time for happiness for your family after the great sadness of the last few weeks.  I hope Rob Martin is a great addition to your family.  I was so saddened to read that Pat has broken her wrist as she sure doesn't need another set back.  It seems that after people have been takers for so long they gain a sense of entitlement and that is sad.  Thanks for changing the page.  May I suggest editing the title on this page to show both June and July.  I went in one day to do that and found I couldn't remember the exact steps and never came back to try again.  I appreciate your doing this for our discussion.  I hope you and John are feeling better each day.

Jackie, I appreciate your encouraging thoughts and your attention to birthdays as that is something I am terrible about keeping track of. 

Ruth Ann Bice

yes, everything is to be in storage.

so sorry pat's wrist is broken.

i will try to keep in touch.

ruth ann
...his compassions fail not.  They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness.


Larry Hanna

Hi Everyone. We had a very rainy night getting about 1 1/4 inches of rain and more on the way today.  However, it will stay in the low to mid-80's again today.  Yesterday afternoon Pat and I went to Ruby Tuesdays to enjoy their $5 salad bar and it was good.  We made it there and back between rain storms.  This morning I plan a trip to Costco for several items and hopefully Scott will go with me.  Then this evening we expect that Scott will be out to spend a couple of hours with us, something we really enjoy.  We just hope he doesn't have to work tonight as this is suppose to be his day off. 

Ruth Ann, what a job to have to move everything into storage.  Are they just doing a few apartments at a time for the remodeling?  It will be like moving to a new place when you can return and get resettled.


Janet

#180
Good morning!  I haven't yet checked to see what kind of weather is in store for us.  We did have a nice .7" rain the other night, but the hot sun dries things out quickly!  Our renter came over on his new riding mower and mowed for us yesterday; we surely appreciate that, as Darrel sure can't do it for a while!

I went to the Main Artery yesterday and made a list of all the paintings I have on display and the prices I would like for them.  I was gone only a short time, as I've been staying close to Darrel! I've had some nice comments on the showing already!  It "officially" starts today, for one month.  After that, I will join the gallery, meaning I will rent a space to hang my stuff.  While I'm guest artist, anything that sells, the gallery gets 30% but after I join, they do not take anything, as I will be paying rent monthly.

I want to take some photos today of the display.  They asked me to bring the ribbons I won at the fair this year and display them with the paintings.
I told them I had ribbons for all of them, and I do!  I was joking about bringing them all, though.

Today, I will leave my patient alone, with his cell phone handy, and go paint.  I'm really needing a little respite; and he is doing better.  He actually slept in the bed last night; has been sleeping in his recliner.  And he ate a bowlful of oatmeal for breakfast!!  He's barely been eating anything!  So I believe he's truly on the mend, now.  He knows if he needs me, he can call, and I'll be here ASAP!!

I need to get my painting stuff together; don't know what I will paint, but will find something!   :)

See you all soon!
My book Rising Above available at JanetDamon.com

Heather

I just popped in to let you all know that Mom (JudyB) will be in later today (when her internet starts working properly) to start the August Thoughts ... While I was here, I decided to stick around and do some reading. 

I would like to thank you all for your prayers.  Life certainly is a challenge sometimes!  As well as I thought I was doing with this whole thing, losing Kimi has been almost more than I can bear, and I certainly wouldn't be doing as well as I am without the strength I'm being given from God. 

I have decided to take some time off work. I tried to go back to work after a couple of weeks, but haven't been able to keep my head "in the game" for very long.  I have had several shifts where I've done more crying than working, etc.  Silly things would trigger the tears; a song that comes on the radio, someone walking in that even remotely resembles Kimi, a phrase being spoken by a co-worker, etc. 

During my time off I intend to go and visit mom and dad for a while. I've made plans to do some woodworking with my dad, so I am doing something different.  Those who know me know that I am a avid knitter, but I can't even consider picking up my needles and yarn at the moment, because the last thing I was knitting was for Kimi. 

Please continue to pray for Jon and the rest of the family.  It breaks my heart to hear some of them say that "there is no God, because if there were Kimi would still be here" or "God? He is hateful and spiteful for taking someone so young from us!"  As much as I miss my youngest, I am comforted knowing that one day I will see her again and when I do she will be without pain and able to run into my arms and hug me.  I am a little jealous though that she got to meet her brothers/sisters (4 miscarriages so I don't know what gender they were) before I did, lol. 

Not a day goes by that I don't miss that girl tho.  I miss the daily phone calls just to tell me she loves me, or giving me an update on what is happening with school.  I had to read about her marks from her report card, instead of her calling me to tell me about them, all proud that she did as well as she did. 

Anyway, I need some sleep.  I worked my last shift for a while last night, so I'm pretty tired at the moment. 

Again, thank you for the prayers.  Love you all!

Carol

Heather:  Thank you for coming in here - I cannot imagine your loss.  You and your family are inspirational.

Janet:  If I stop adding fabric, this will be a full size quilt.  I have the fabric and couldn't not use it, could I????  YOu are hanging in there strong too! 

Pat:  You need a cup of Mercy - you have prayers coming.

Larry:  My machine is on a sewing desk and I use several wooden t.v. trays for the heavy fabric so that it won't drag or pull.  There are full windows to the south - this is a walk-out basement.  I never sew at night anymore.  There is a long table used for cutting fabric and that is so handy.  ---This brother has volunteered for the fire dept for years - it is an eastern Washington county and they had fires the last two years - all drought problems. 

Our neighbor/friend has been going to Grief class at church and she says that it has helped.  We take a walk about once a week - or just have tea together and Don has been able to help with a few things around the house - he put in a new phone system for her and that saved her money too.  Glad to be of any help.  She and her late husband have been the most positive Christians we have known in our lifetime and a joy to be friends. 


Janet

Heather, you have been in my thoughts so often, as having lost a daughter recently, I certainly empathize with your loss. It is the hardest thing I've had to endure thus far in my life; but as you said, we will see them again, and they will come running into our arms!  Would you mind telling me why Kimi couldn't walk?  I've not heard her story.  Only tell me if you want, though, I certainly do not want to pry.  I think it's a wonderful idea to do something totally different for a little while, at least.  It will give you back your perspective on life, and help you know that you will survive this, and even be happy again.  We will always, always miss our sweet girls, but they are so happy and so free there in heaven with Jesus and all those they knew who have gone before.  I wouldn't call Beth back to that life of pain and paralysis, even if I could!  Hugs, love and tears to you, dear one.  I understand.

Pat, if you can type a few words with one hand, please let us know how you're doing.  I so hope the pain isn't terrible!  Doggone it, anyway!

Carol, I'll bet that quilt is beautiful.  I just never got into quilt making. Used to do a lot of sewing, especially for the four girls, but the only quilts I ever made were baby quilts.  I took up painting instead.  Starting today, until the end of August, I am guest artist at The Main Artery.  She said she sent notices to 30 different newspapers!  I don't think I even know that many in this whole corner of the state!

I painted three more cards today, just fun stuff.  It was fun to get to unwind a bit after the scare with Darrel.  When I called to check on him, he said he'd been doing good until I woke him up!  :-\  He's feeling quite a bit better today, and ate good for a change. so things are looking up!

Talk to you all tomorrow!
My book Rising Above available at JanetDamon.com

Jane Walker

#184
Heather, my heart aches with yours, as well as Janet's and Larry's, who have also had to say an early goodbye to daughters. 

What you wrote here echoed exactly my own experience.  It is as though I was writing of those same feelings and emotions.  Only it is double for me.   I've had two daughters move on to their eternal home.  There are days when it seems you just can't go on.  I know.  So many sudden and unexpected triggers start the tears flowing.  I know.  Hearing the doubt and unbelief and hardness of heart from others is such a wrenching feeling.  I know.

Please know I have been, and will continue, praying for you and everyone here to find a place of peace and the ability to carry on until it is our turn to make that final journey.  <3
Life isn't about waiting for the storm to pass .... it's about learning to dance in the rain!

Larry Hanna

Hi Everyone.  It is another overcast morning with more rain expected this afternoon.  Yesterday we had rain for a short period yesterday afternoon and I think that was all unless it rained during the night. Today I am going to coffee with my friend and then stop at Aldi's for just a few things we need.  Scott will be out about 1:30 this afternoon and then we are  going to Cheddars for our main meal.  They have a special of 1/2 rack of ribs or and 8 oz piece of Alaskan salmon for $9.99.  Scott did come out yesterday evening and we had delicious potato soup that Pat had made in the Instant Pot.  She has an easy recipe that doesn't require much work.  I did spend a couple of hours at Costco yesterday morning.  Scott didn't get out to go with me as we had planned. 

Janet, nice of your renter to use his new mower and help you all with your yard.  The Main Artery will give you a source of not only displaying your paintings but also a way to sell them.  Glad you could go and paint yesterday and it sounds like Darrel managed very well by himself for a few hours. You haven't said anything about the ribbons your painting won at this years fair--don't be shy as that is always of interest. 

Heather, glad you joined us yesterday.  A number of us here, as has been mentioned, do have some knowledge of the grief you are experiencing.  I don't remember what anyone said to me at the time but I do remember the hugs that said people cared.  So I just send you some cyber hugs.  There are many things that we will never understand but it is faith that helps us get through the rough times in life. 

Carol, the sewing desk that Pat uses has a drop down leaf in the back that makes a large surface to work with and she is able to keep it up all the time in her sewing room.  She also has a long table, on bed risers, for cutting the fabric.  Have you seen the Missouri Star Quilting Magazine?  Pat has gotten them since they started publishing them.  They are not inexpensive but very high quality and they contain no advertising.  Our Church also has a grief class and I have heard others speak of how helpful it has been.   

Janet

Larry, speaking of grief classes; hospice does have a class, but it is in Garden City, and in the evening, which precludes my attendance.  I wish there were one here in my town.  I do plan to attend the camp at Scott Lake this summer; it should be coming up soon.  Hope it's not during the time we plan to go to Alaska.

Jane, for sure you know.  Experience is the best teacher they say--but some things we would surely rather learn without the first-hand experience.  But I pray that each of us who have gone through the painful loss of close loved ones will be able to help those who will be going through that dark valley later.  There is always hope in God!  Good to read your post.  (((hugs)))

I wish I could go back to bed and just hibernate today!  Way too many things demanding my time and attention, and I had a painful, sleepless night.  BUT GOD will give me the strength needed for today, and the ability to face it with a smile and a word of encouragement for others.  That is my prayer this morning.

Larry, I entered 8 items in the art dept. at the fair, and I won: Overall Grand Champion, Champion; 2 Reserve Grand Champions; 2 purple awards and 8 First Place awards.  So for those 8 entries, my premiums totaled $70.00!  ;) :thumbsup:  Thanks for asking!

I'm getting my hair cut today, so that should perk me up some!

Talk to you all later.
Janet
My book Rising Above available at JanetDamon.com

JudyB

Thank you everyone for those words for Heather.  She will be back in to read and comment.  I love you all and sending {{{cyber hugs}}} to each of you.


Janet

Love you, too, Judy---((((hugs)))) back to you!
My book Rising Above available at JanetDamon.com