Christian Photographers Community

Thanks Janet!

I got to the Yahoo about 6 minutes after your last message to me.  I had to go to the mall to pick up Kathleen.  I'm so sorry I missed you.

Hi Gord!

I like your picture, do you?

Some new smilies for y'all! 
You'll find them when you click on the "[more]" link.

 ;DHI TO ALL iT HAS BEEN A VERY BUSY DAY AND WE HAD OUR FAMILY CHRISTMAS  THERE WERE AT LEAST 21 PEOPLE INCLUDING THE KIDS. WE HAD A LOT OF FOOD AND A LOT OF FUN.

JEANNINE. I HOPE THAT MICHAEL AND YOU HAVE A WONDERFUL CHRISTMAS AND THAT BIG CUDDELEY MAN GIVES HIM MUCHFUN AND LOVE. I DO NOT KNOW ANYTHING ABOUT YOUR SON AND I HAVE A SISTER IN LAW WHO ALSO HAS A TRACH SHE HAS CYSTIC FIBROSIS OF THE LUNGS SO IF YOU WISH YOU CAN TELL ME VIA EMAIL OR ON THE SITE.  MY EMAIL ADDRESS IS  ngbrown@cogeco.ca    GOD BLESS.

ETTA SUE  I HOPE THAT YOU HAVE A WONDERFUL TIME WITH YOUR FAMILY AND I LOVE ALL YOUR CHRISTMAS CHARACTERS

JANET. AWESOME PICTURE WE STILL HAVE NO SNOW IN MY PART OF CANADA.

MARY.  DONT BE SHY KEEP THOSE THOUGHTS COMING.

MARILYN. WE ALLNEED TO ENCOURAGE EACH OTHER AND I HOPE THAT YOU WILLLOOK TO JESUS AND IGNORE THE THINGS THAT HURT.  HAVE AN AWESONE CHRISTMAS.

COLIN.  PAT TOLD ME THAT YOU ARE IN IRELAND.  THIS IS ONE PLACE THAT I HAVE A GREAT LOVE FOR AS MY MUM IS FROM KNOCK AROUND (BALLYHACKIMORE) VERY CLOSE TO STORMENT.  I USED TO GO THERE EVERY SUMMER FOR PART OF MY HOLIDAYS AND I STAYED AT MY GRANMOTHERS JUST OF ORMISTON GARDENS  HOPE THAT YOU HAVE AN AWESOME CHRISTMAS

JUDY B.    IT SOUNDS THAT YOU HAVE BEEN VERY BUSY WITH THE KIDS.  NOREEN AND I DID THE SAME THING THE OTHER DAY AND I THINK NOREEN HAS GIVEN MOST OF THEM AWAY JUST LIKE HER MUM USED TO DO.  YOU DID NOT MENTION ANY SODA BREAD WHAT HAPPENED TO THE IRISH PART OF YOU

WELL MUST GO TO SLEEP AS HAVE TO GET UP FOR CHURCH IN THE MORNING HAVE AN AWESOME DAY IN THE LORDS HOUSE PRAISING  HIS NAME  GOOD NIGHT.

Take your caps lock off, Gord!  Very difficult to read the caps! 


Sounds like you had a very busy day!  Was "Santa" good to you?  what did you get?

I'm going up to Janice's tomorrow and will stay till Christmas evening.


Gord, are you happy with your picture?  I don't think you want to tell me. 

What a great pic by our Janet in her gallery.

Great photo Janet!

thought I'd share a thought I found on a Bible study site.

Celebrating the Birth

Two women who were having lunch in an elegant hotel were approached by a mutual friend who asked the occasion for the meal.
One lady replied, "We are celebrating the birth of my baby boy."
"But where is he?" inquired the friend.
"Oh," said the mother, "you didn't think I'd bring him, did you?"
What a picture of the way the world treats Jesus at Christmas.

author unknown

Janet, thank you for the morning devotional.  A wonderful explanation of the complete picture of why we celebrate Christmas.  May everyone have a good day.  I may be back later today to read and participate in some of the conversation.

Wow Janet great devotional.

Good Morning Everyone!

Nice to see you Mary!  I'm so happy you've started posting again.  I missed you and hope you are keeping well.

Hi Marilyn! 

Smokey, what a good example of our Lord and how many treat Him!  Thanks so much.

Hi everyone.  Happy to say that after about a 12 hour rest/sleep I feel my old self again. 

I want to share a little something for everyone as we approach Christmas tomorrow.  Someone sent this to us and it is very pretty.  Keep an eye out for the instructions.  http://ecard.ashland.edu/2004admission/index.html

A very timely and meaningful devotional.  Janet, it is sad when we think we have the responsibility or, more importantly, the right to try to control another person.  We each are entitled to make our own decisions.  Sorry to hear of hte additional heartache for Beth, not something she needs.  Unfortunately, many of us don't seem to understand that we don't do a very good job in controlling ourselves much less controlling someone else.  Janet, it sounds like there will be a lot of good eating done by your family. 

Colin, sorry to read of your sadness.  Glad you feel comfortable enough with us to share that.  Do hope your wife is feeling much better from her accident.

Mary Frances, nice to see your posting.  We have missed you and the others that haven't been by for awhile. 

Marlyn, I am always troubled when I see that people are hurt because a posting seems to have been ignored or there aren't many comments.  I don't ever find what you write to be boring (although I would have to say the same criteria would apply to my positngs about what I have done during the day).  If I didn't comment on my life events don't think I would have much to say.  It is the variety of our activities and the up and downs of our individual lives that makes each of us an interesting person.  Unfortunately we cannot know what a person reading our postings may be dealing with or perhaps how they are feeling and thus they don't feel up to commenting, don't have the time they want to devote to posting at that moment, or feel they have anything to say.  I experienced this last night when I wanted to read the messages but just didn't feel up to sitting there and posting.  I think there will always be an ebb and flo on message boards.  Of course, I usually forget what I said in the last posting.    Enjoy your days off.

Janet, very impressive photo.  It sure looks cold there even it is beautiful.

Gord, sounds like you all had a ball with your family celebration. 

Pat, thanks for the new smilies.  Hope you have a good drive to your daughters.

Jane, I was so happy for you when I read what your car repair had cost.  It is nice that your daughter shared her feeling with you even if they were those of sadness.  Listening can be such a powerful gift.

Hi Al, hope you and your lovely wife are both feeling chipper at this holiday season.

JudyB, homemade bread is so good.  Eat an extra slice for me, please.  Bread is something that I dearly love and would just as soon as fresh baked bread as cake anyday.  It is nice that your girls want to learn cooking and other housekeeping skills as they will use them all of their lives.

Liz, it is so nice that you are so close to your family and yet can have your own space.  It is people that makes our lives interesting.

Babycakes, a very nice photo of your daughter. 

Etta Sue, you enjoy a rare privilege by living in sort of a family compound.  It is nice that your sister and you have such a fine relationship and I am sure your brother when he is there.

Jeannine, it sounds like Michael is a real trooper.  Glad his problem wasn't a serious one that required him to be hospitalized.

Smokeythedog, hope you have gotten your new computer setup and functioning as you want.  It does take a bit of time to reload programs and files but I always enjoy it.

Kevin, enjoy your holiday and don't get too stressed with all of your ministerial responsibilities. 

Guess I had better sign off for today.  We are headed to Sunday School and church.  There is one combined service this morning and the choir is singing.  This evening we plan on attending at 6 pm candlelight service at the church our daughter is attending close to her apartment.  Tomorrow we will have our Christmas with her here at the house.

This is indeed a great day.  We wait with anticipation for the Christmas Day and the significance it holds for Christians.  Though it could be a time a sadness it is really cause for celebration of a birth. 

A little baby born so long ago whose expressed purpose was to die.  To die so that this corrupt man (me) might live eternally with God instead of being eternally separated from Him.

In 1972, Christ interrupted my life and the path I was on.  He changed my heart and He changed my direction.  Since that time Christmas & Easter have meant more to me than they ever had.  But another day especially important to me has been Maunday Thursday.

Though our present church does not place emphasis on this day, it is special to me.  First, because this is the day that the Holy Spirit started to speak to my heart (it took two more years to take affect)  Secondly, because this was the day that Christ prepared Himself for the next days events.

Think about it....you know you are about to die on the morrow.  What would you do?   What actions would you be taking? What preparations would you make?

So Merry Christmas everyone.  May the joy of our Lord fill your lives. May the peace that passes all understanding fill your hearts....forever and ever.

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Right!.....have a good laugh at me ....I spent ages this morning writing out a brilliant post and replying to indeev....indidvieu...er....each one of you...and I cant see it here! Unless Pat removed it...which I think not..I must never have posted it! I was checking it over in preview...thought I had sent it..and turned the computer off!
All I am going to do now is wish you all a very Happy Christmas!....I have not the heart to start writing out my post again ......and then I am going for a long lie down. I am  and and

God bless everyone!

That's a lovely card, Marilyn.  Thanks for that.  I really must get back to my PSP but there just aren't enough hours in the day I'm finding.

Hi Colin...  That's happened to me on numerous times.      to both of us!   

Im so glad you had a good sleep Larry and that you are feeling better today.  That's the kind of news we all like to hear!

Ed, thank you so much for this testimony of our Saviour working in your life.  Awesome!

I thought I would share with you the first Christian poem I composed which was about thirty years ago....which means I wrote it when I was about 4 ...who am I kidding! I have recalled all the verses from memory because I have mislaid my copy of it....not bad from someone who forgot to click the post button this morning!
By the way....the turkey is cooking away nicely...do you believe...it took both me and Marlene together to lift it into the oven!.... not because of its weight but because I have a bad back and Marlenes arms are sore.
Right..could do with a drink of tea!

God bless!

Thanks to all who have commented about my family and I.  I honestly can say that I don't remember ever being angry with my sister, Ivalou.  Nothing has ever been said or done between us that would keep us apart.  Now my brother, Kaye Don, that's another story.  When we were growing up we fought like cats and dogs!!  Really!!  But the night Kaye Don got married, Barb looked at him and said 'I don't ever want to hear you call Etta Sue another name or see you ever hit her again.'  He never has since and they have been married 51 years.  Yes, I truly have a loving family!  Thank you, God.

I have been to church today and have eaten lunch.  This evening I am going to Ivalou's church with her for Candlelight service.  Her church is only 3 miles away...mine is 25 miles. 

I have to battle myself not to get depressed during the Christmas season.  No husband, one son, no grandkids of my own.  But when I really think about it, I am truly blessed with family and friends who are very, very close.  I am not one to depend on others but I know if I needed someone all I need do is pick up a phone and call.  Yes, I am truly blessed.  Thank you, God!

Just had to stop back and share something humorous.  When we got home from church we noticed that all of the pansy blossoms were gone.  We got out of the car and looked and sure enough each plant was still there but no flowers.  Then it donned on us that the reason was the dear that our daugher saw in our yard last evening.  I hope they enjoyed the special treat.  I noticed that a couple of the trees up the street had blossomed out.  It has really been warm here for quite awhile.

I'm having serious computer problems again, have tried to post several times today, and each time, the machine freezes and I wind up having to reboot.  So I will say Merry Christmas to you all, I have read each post and commented to each--more than once--but am keeping this one short and hoping it will post.  I'm taking the computer to Curtis who will try to find the problem for me.

Later........

I am not going to answer each person who has posted, except to say I have enjoyed the reading and the visit to your home.

Gord I am not the soda bread queen, Pat is.  You want soda bread talk to her.  Now tea biscuits that is another thing.  I have had hopes of keeping part of a batch for another meal and quadrupled the recipe only to have them devoured with the home made soup.  No success in saving some for the next day.

We had an awesome time at church today.  We were almost the first there.  The fellowship over coffee was awesome.  After church we went to find a house that burned down a few weeks ago and the drive in the country was beautiful.  :)There was a skiff of snow last night and in the bush it has stayed.  Different year this year not having snow.  I pray we don't get lambasted with snow in the New Year.      

Gord seeing how you don't want to comment on your photo I will.  Looking good.  Now tell Pat for me I need a new picture ok?

Well I have to go.  Time is flying and we are heading out to church at 5:15.  Mother wants to go with us.  It has been years since she has been to a candle light service. 

God bless and good night.

Hi Gang. Well its been just over 2 1/2 years that I have posted anything on CP but I am back to spend some time with you folks again. Only this time you won't be getting my stories from my travels with the truck as I packed that in this past October, and am now working from home with some travel around Ontario in my own car. I ahve taken on the responsiblities of the Director of Personnel with Open Road Chapels which is a truck stop ministry. So I am still in the trucking business but in a different capacity. This gives me a lot more home time which is really enjoyed by all in the family. For instance, this year I didn't have to virtually run day and night to get home in time for Christmas. Nice change. I will share some of the experiences of my new position as we go along and hope that you will all enjoy them and maybe Blessed in some way by the events that happen in this ministry. I am really enjoying the lack of snow this year. As I look out of our window I see brown grass rather than 2 feet of snow. It makes it much more pleasant for travel this way and also makes the roads somewaht safer during this festive season. I have had my fill of fighting the snow with the years on the road. Thank the Lord always came back safe but still am pleased not to have to deal with the stress of it all.
Well going to get going for now as we need to get a couple of things done before going back to church tonight.
Everyone have a blessed Christmas and a safe one and keep foremost in your thoughts that the reason for the season is Jesus Christ and not all the hipe and commercialism that surronds the Christmas season.
Please frogive any spelling errors as I typed this quickly and am anything but a typist. I am strickly a one finger operator on the keyboard.
Merry Christmas and God Bless evryone.

 
HI TO ALL. 

PAT I AM BEING TOLD BY JUDY TO ANSWER ABOUT MY PICTURE.   YES IT IS GREAT AND I DO THANK YOU FOR DOING THAT FOR ME. TO ALL OTHERS THE PICTURE WAS TAKEN LAST YEAR BY PAT AT A FUNCTION THAT I WAS SINGING AT.

WE HAD A WONDERFUL SERVICE THIS MORNING AND TONIGHT WE ARE GOING FOR A CANDLE LIGHT AND I AM SINGING AT IT SO IF YOU READ THIS BEFORE 7-00 P.M. TONIGHT  PLEASE ORAY FOR ME THAT IT GOES WELL AND THAT THERE IS SOMEONE THERE WHO HERES THE GOSPEL.

BONESY.  NICE TO SEE YOU POSTING ON YOUR OWN AND JUDY IT ALL SOUNDS GOOD MAIL ME SOME.  HA HA.

WELL MUST GO PRACTICE SOME MORE GOD BLESS AND HAVE A WONDERFUL DAY TOMORROW   GORD.

Just a quick post tonight, church was wonderful this morning and am leaving in a few minutes for the candlelight service. My Pastor stopped in a few minutes ago to give Michael a present. Michael really loves to see Kevin.
Ok, gotta go. One more thing:

Merry Christmas Everyone!

God Bless you all,
<><Jeannine

Wonderful service this morning, Lots of tears shed during the worship, Pastor Dayy sang quite a few songs during the sermon and gave a salvation message using the letters of Christmas.

One of our young Servicemen is home for Iraq and on a little vacation before he has to go back. Everyone was thanking him and Pastor Danny honored him too.

The kids will be here in a little bit and we will have our celebration.

Later

Hi  I just came to wish  y-all a very Merry Christmas, My  youngest and his family have been here an gone now. But we will all be meeting up again tomorrow at my DIL's parent's  house in Eureka. My doggies loved their new toys that I have wraped in a layer of tissue paper with  some treats   between sot hey would smell them and remove the paper. NOT! I had to unwrap it for them  then they found the treats andthe new toys.

God bless each one of you as you celebrate our Saviour's birth.
As I type, it's late afternoon, Christmas Day, and we had a great time with our 6 sons. I've posted a few shots of the children in the Gallery.

I need to go and prepare the dinner now, but just dropped in to wish you all a very Happy Christmas.

In His unfailing love,

Just wanted to stop in and wish everyone a Blessed Christmas! 

My step-daughter and her family are coming so it is going to very busy here.
The candlelight service last night was awesome.
OK, gotta go.

Trusting,
<><Jeannine

Have a Blessed Christmas!

Early afternoon with me this grey Christmas day in Northern Ireland! Presents have been opened and the dinner is on and all is well with the world!
I do hope you all have a wonderful day!
God bless!

Merry Christmas everyone!

Good Morning  and Happy Birthday Jesus

The kids gave me a new mouse pad that is a Hologram of three dogs  I am having so much trouble trying to control the  mouse, it wants to go all over the place andnot where I want it to go. 

All is quiet on the western front this morning except for the raindrops onthe window and the breeze blowing through the trees. Happy is sleeping at my feet and bebe is on the couch all curled up.

Have a great day y-all

Merry Christmas everyone.  I am just back from a trip to Atlanta to pick up our daughter for the day.  We had a lovely time last evening as we went to church with her for a musical program and then a traditional candlelight service.  This is the church she has been attending and it is the first time we ever went to our children's church.  It was a very memorable experience.  This is a small Methodist church but they have a very large and beautiful organ and the music was lovely as even though it was a small choir they did a number of solos and one trio. 

When we got home last evening Pat made some fudge and some peanut brittle.  At the moment she is preparing the ham to put into the oven. 

We had rain all night and it is continuing now but still isn't cold.  This was a great day to be driving as there were relatively few cars on the road, even on the Interstate.

What a wonderful day to celebrate the Birth of the Christ child.  Without Christ, where would we be?  For sure, no hope, no reason for the season.  Thank God! 

I just looked at a site that you all may enjoy as well.  World Time Zones  Looking at this, I realize that Karen in Australia is 16 hours ahead of me, New York City Time .  Kevin is 12 hours ahead of me and Colin is 5 hours ahead of me.  That makes me realize that they are all stuffed and probably taking naps when us here in North America are anticipating and salivating the thoughts of Christmas dinner. 

I am not sure how many will be at Ivalou's...she isn't sure either but we know of three and maybe more.  Kitty called me to say their home is germy...she has the stomach flu so she wanted me to know that in case I didn't want to enter a germ-filled home.  Her little granddaughter in Ohio is sick also and probably won't be there today either. 

It is no wonder we all aren't sick.  Unusually warm weather.  Warm with cool breezes and rains.  Enough to make anyone sick.  Plus people not feeling well but feeling like they have to get out for social gatherings and last minute gift purchasing.  Tis the season to be yucky amongst all the merriment!

Bonesy ~ Great to see you posting.  Looking forward to seeing more in the coming days...you promised, right?

I found a new smiley this week...  Pat, you make put it on CP for all to use. 

Again....

Wonderful Christmas blessings to each and every one of you!!

We had a good time last evening with the kids and grandkids.  We had supper (dinner to city folks!)   then went to church.  It was a different sort of service, several of their young people sang solos, played the piano, etc.  The pastor read a thing about a comparison of Santa Claus and Jesus--- ---and then more singing.

Back to their house, where gifts were opened, lots of ooohs and ahhhs, very happy time.  While we were in China, we had some 'chops' (hand carved stone signature stamps) made for Curtis, Mark, Abby and Jeff.  When Mark (the one who LOVES all things Oriental) opened his, he was SO happy!!  He said "Grandma, you must have read my mind!  I was going to order one of these, and the dragon is the design I wanted!"  That was nice to hear.

Bonesey, your new job sounds very enjoyable.  I think success can be described as doing what you love, and making a living while doing it.  Congratulations.

Darrel and I have opened our few gifts to each other, and he reassembled my computer for me.  Curtis said it is Internet Explorer hanging up and that I need to install Firefox.......will see if I can get that done later.  We need to get dressed, go pick up Beth and head back to Diane's house.  I will make the filling for the cream pies after we get there.  Seems when I transport them, they always get shook up!  So it's easier to just wait and do them there.  And isn't this just fascinating?  

Larry, one of the comments I made yesterday in the lost posts was that I am so thrilled every time I read of your daughter's progress, and I am rejoicing with you and Pat about that.  

Pat, thanks for the new smilies!  Anyone up for a   ?

I'd better post this quickly before it hangs up again!

MERRY CHRISTMAS, AND GOD BLESS US, EVERY ONE!!

Etta Sue,    HI!  We were posting at the same time. 

See you all later, must run now!

Update on my daughter Carole Yes she does have breast cancer she is going to research all the alternative types of therapy before she consents to any of it. She did say she was going to have Radiation and take Tamoxifen .

Good Morning and Merry Christmas to everyone!

We are going to have a quiet time today, the turkey is cooking in Wendy's oven, I have my usual sauce to make for the Plum Pudding, plus help with the dinner preparations, etc.  Only presents for Amanda this year, so not going to watch her unwrap them, since Wendy & I wrapped them together yest.  No surprises there!!
We decided to take a year off buying presents and do something for folks who could use a little help from Santa.  And yes, there is a Santa, and we are it!! 

Last night we watched the most beautiful program about Yellowstone Park.  Photo's that took away my breath and made me long to have enough talent to paint God's splendor.  The kids have a huge TV with High Definition and surround sound, so could be totally blown away by the beauty.  What an amazing world God created, it was like stepping back into a world that he wanted us to have....

Marilyn, that is so cute and you have a wonderful talent.  Hope that your dogs are happy together again.  Misty and Squeek are another story....Squeek refuses to be friends.

Time to go now.  Wendy wants me to come upstairs and have lunch with them. 
Will look forward to hearing more about your work, Bonesey.  What a great way to spend your life.

Merry Christmas and God Bless.

Liz

Just stopping by to wish everyone a very Merry Christmas! 

I have been watching the ice skating on TV today.  It's raining here but no wind so that's a plus.   

Marilyn~Sorry about your daughter's diagnosis but I know she will be very thorough in her research and that, along with prayer, will get her through this in fine fettle.

What does that mean anyway -- fine fettle?     My mother used to say that all the time.  I just took it as she meant it -- that everything was going to be fine and dandy ... hmmmm another expression for all occasions.       

I am thankful that Joy has been able to connect with her sister's family and has spent some very happy and loving times with them.  She says she is the grandma now since Jean is gone.  There are 10 grandchildren from Jean's four kids ... and 5 of them are under the age of 18 months!     I think I like being here at a distance from such a gathering!   

Well, I think I will take myself out for dinner today, so I'll see y'all when I get back.

Hi, gang, I'm in to my home safely before the bad weather hits.

It worried me to go over Monteagle Mountain, but just as I got there, the heavy fog lifted and I "drove over on dry ground." Then, only a short distance from the foot of the mountain, the misty conditions started again.

Saturday's Christmas gathering with all my children was a wonderful treat for us all. The little ones were squealing with delight as they opened their presents, the older folks were hugging and laughing and joking. (What an answer to prayer for me - we were all together for the first Christmas celebration in 25 years.)

As we ladies cooked Saturday morning, the guys gathered round the table with the children and decorated little snoman cakes. There was some real creativity going there, with green snowmen, little children with dyed-purple lips from the purple icing, happy faces on both snowmen and children alike. One guy helped chop onions and peppers for casseroles, another rolled up his sleeves anbd did a stint at the kitchen sink preparing the pots and pans for the dishwasher, the dog quietly crept around to see if there were any crumbs she could find, and carols were playing on the stereo.

Then, after the big feast and gift giving, everyone gathered around to decorate a gingerbread house. Such fun! There's a tourist attraction near Chattanooga called Rock City, and the advertisements are painted on the roofs of barns and bird houses on all the highway approaches to Chattanooga. So, one side of our gingerbread house says "See Rock City"!

Another outside wall has the University of Tennessee orange "T" and the University of Georgia "G" on it.

There was lots of joking and hugging and story telling, and memories being shared.

A most unique gift to me was from the December 3, 2006 Sunday paper. My former pastor phoned the following day (Dec 4) telling me that the bank choir in which my late husband sang in 1960 was featured in our newspaper, so my daughter found the photo in the newspaper along with its little writeup framed for me so that I can take it to work to put on my desk. Such a great gift. And, all the other gifts were received with gratitude.

Another gift I am so glad to receive is my very own autographed CD from my favorite country music singer (my son who lives in England)!

It was perfect that my little granddaughter's favorite entertainment character right now is Dora the Explorer. How much she enjoyed interacting with the Mexican-born guy in our midst. He was sharing the correct pronunciation with her and her little tongue was trying hard to roll the R's, etc. just right. You should have seen the twinkle in his eyes and big grin when she was trying to imitate him.

So, lots of fun was had, and our get together ended with several people taking pictures. So, I have numerous promises of e-mailed photos.

I'm thankful for a good trip back, and am now ready to rest for a little while.

I'm so thankful to have been blessed with 61 Christmases as a born-again child of God. Happy Birthday, Jesus! How wonderful to have given my heart to Him at age 5 and to have walked with Him - through joy and pain, happiness and great sorrow, in sickness and in health - and to know that the blessed Holy Spirit has been my comforter and guide.

Y'all have a good evening.

Ruth Ann

Ruth Ann~It is obvious your cup of joy is full to overflowing these days.  I'm so happy for you!  What a wonderful time you have been blessed with!      And gifts that you will cherish for ever and ever.      

I went to dinner and did what is expected of a person at Christmas dinner -- I stuffed myself!        I had turkey and all the trimmings: stuffing, mashed potatoes and gravy, green bean cassarole, sweet potatoes, cranberry sauce after a delicious salad.  I brought the piece of pumpkin pie home with me and plan to take care of that after a while.   

I trust all y'all had a wonderful time of celebrating Jesus with your loved ones. 

I'll talk atcha later....

I hope you have all had a wonderful Christmas day! 

We are in relax mode here and since we have unusually cool weather for this time of year, it's even more enjoyable!

For some days the Lord has been impressing on my heart to post here another one of my stories. I've tried to ignore that feeling, but it comes back stronger each time in come here, so all I can gather is that some of you need to be encouraged with the message of hope, despite seemingly impossible circumstances.

May new hope arise in your hearts as you enter soon into a new year, as you read this story based on Isaiah 35:1-2 NIV; Hosea 2:14-15 .

In His love,


DESERT SONG

Violent winds suddenly invade the scorched desert wilderness, instantly turning it into a sand-filled tempest. The wind snatches up millions of sand grains - savagely heaving them to and fro. Empowered by the wind, the sand becomes an abrasive assailant against the rugged terrain of the valley called Achor. Nothing is able to withstand its devastating blast.

But things are not always as they seem, for in the midst of nature's cruel lashing stands a solitary plant. It is incredibly vulnerable to the adverse elements. Despite the deadly conditions, the withered plant tenaciously holds its place in the parched earth. Unable to hear the roar of the wind, but able to feel the full brunt of its ravaging force, the single stem bends awkwardly with each burst of the wind's unrelenting fury. The plant's flexibility, even though dead, is an enigma. Perched on top of the stem is the plant's seed housing - the dried up remains of a once vivacious flower. The assault of the wind tears asunder the casing and its precious seed is abducted by the raging wind...scattered...lost forever.

At an unknown distance from the lone desert plant, the airborne seeds are suddenly dumped by the hostile wind like despised refuse. Without mercy, the seeds are left for dead on the barren ground. Moments later, as if driven by a vindictive after-thought, the wind again assaults the seeds with its harsh breath, burying them with sand. Their futile flight has abruptly ended in a shallow grave. A second death, final in its lonely silence...unnoticed...insignificant.

The cruel wind departs the valley as suddenly as it appeared and is replaced by unending days of stifling heat and frigid nights. The unruly elements demand their place in the brutal and unyielding desert landscape. But, as in all extremes, the unexpected happens...

The usual monotony of the sun-bleached day has been shrouded in grey, bilious clouds. Without warning, the heavens rend above, sending down huge raindrops, which fall at random on the burning desert sand. A peculiar speckled pattern of dry and wet spots appear across the ground. But not for long. Before the earth can greedily swallow the moisture, a deluge falls from the heavily impregnated sky. The hardened ground, unable to cope with the sudden rush of water, has become a shimmering desert pool.

With the deluge exhausted, the ground begins to receive the life-giving liquid. Seeping into the desert floor, the precious water finds numerous hard obstructions on its downward journey. The caress of the water on the long-forgotten seeds instantly awakens something deep within them. Sending out a shoot to investigate the water's invasion to their dark seclusion, the seeds undergo a metamorphosis. Their resurrection from the dead has wrought a sudden transformation, as the desire for life has been encrypted within the seed.

Spawned by the drought-breaking rain, the tender shoots push their way through the moist earth. The sand has become pliable after the rain, despite the years of relentless sun-baking. With singular determination, the tender shoots press upward, while the once hibernating seeds simultaneously send roots on a downward mission for more moisture and nutrition.

The shoots' eruption through the desert surface carries a note of victory with it - the cry of one that has defied insurmountable odds and triumphed! The jubilant shoots are met by a burst of fresh air and immediately adorned with the sun's welcoming embrace.

With astonishing speed the shoots become stems and the stems produce leaves and most ingeniously of all, flower buds.

The tightly closed buds slowly, carefully unfold their delicate petal treasures one by one. What had been concealed in the secret place of death is now blossoming in the open place.

Can the desert contain the joy of colour? Can the desolate place bear the sound of song? What once laid dormant, dead and forgotten, is now alive in a sea of vivid colour - exuberant with new life.

Songs of gay abandon now fill the valley of Achor. The place of bitter death has become a way of hope.

The hues of the desert crocus are mesmerising in their brilliance. Their dance - alluring in the gentle, cool breeze - a wave offering to the Creator.

The flowers of the desert are rejoicing in song. They have overcome!

By Karen Elengikal


From Isaiah 35:1-2 NIV; Hosea 2:14-15 NIV.

Beautiful, Karen!  I agree with you that it may be some here are in need of encouragement and that is just what your story brings.  God bless you for listening to that still small voice.   

Karen, just this very morning I was reading in Hosea 2.    I was led there by a daily word I receive by email.  Isn't this interesting?  Yes, thank you for listening and then posting this story.   Nita

Hi Pat, Janet, Al, Etta Sue, Marilyn and other CP users... wanted to wish all of you a wonderful Christmas with precious memories.  Bless you all.

Good Morning ... did everyone have enough to eat Christmas Day?  Today is my favorite, cold leftover turkey   No cooking involved!

It is really early, dark outside, so have not checked for rain yet.  We are going into Victoria to shop as it is Boxing Day here in Canada.  All the stores put things on 1/2 price and real bargains are to be found...I need to get out and walk as my back is painful...what better place than a nice dry mall.

That was an interesting story.  Wonderful how God made our world so things would continue long after death.  I keep thinking about that Yellowstone Park film.  How the animals survive the most cruel winters, how bears actually give birth to their young while hibernating (yes, it's true).  Imagine the surprise!!  How a fox, who did not feel fear of man, walked right up to the photographer, had a good look, then went about it's journey, totally unafraid.  Yet, it is a world filled with stalking wolves, cowardly coyotes, etc.  Not unlike our world today.

I guess this is a time of year when we reflect and memories (good & bad) seem to abound.  Negative thinking seems to also abound in our society.  Not for the Christian to dwell on negative thoughts.  What is past, is finished.  We are told to go out and help others.  To be filled with positive energy and always to remember what God told us...."I am with you always."

                               

Pleasant Day/Evening and God Bless.

Liz

Hi everyone.  It has turned much older here this morning and McDonald's (where we had coffee this morning) was really chilly probably because the heat had been off for over 24 hours).  Glad to get back to my office, which is nice and warm. 

Gareth, good to see your posting. 

Karen, you are a very descriptive writer and I appreciate your sharing your writing with us.  Each element of nature is a necessary part of the cycle of life for the plants.  You can also make the human connection.

Nita, it is a small world we live in and isn't it interesting how often coincidences seem to occur.

Jane, that sounds like a Cracker Barrel Christmas dinner.  Pat and I once had a Thanksgiving dinner in a Cracker Barrel when we were traveling on that day and it was very good.  I am glad you enjoyed your meal.

Ruth Ann, it sounds like you had a memorable Christmas with your family reunited.  Glad you had no trouble in your drive home.

I can relate to the joy you express even though our situation was quite different here in that only our daughter was here with us.  However, it was joyous to me as I felt like she really participated as a family member rather than just being here physically.  I know that probably doesn't make a lot of sense but it sure does to me.  It is only through God's will that her life has been turned around. 

Liz, scenery on the high definition big screen television set is really something.  It was nice of your daughter and your son-in-law to share with someone else.

Marilyn, so sorry to read of the cancer that has attacked your daughter.  It seems that so many people are having to fight this retched disease.  Fortunately, many of the treatments are fully successful, especially when the cancer is found early.

Janet, I have used Firefox for quite awhile and have to say it is my preferred browser for the Internet.  I hope that solves your problems.  It sounds like you really hit the spot with the Oriental gift for Mark and the other grandchildren. 

Etta Sue, always unpleasant to hear of folks under the weather at holiday times. 

I have a nice quiet day planned or unplanned, as the case may be.  There is little on the calendar this week and that is a nice change.

Karen - your use of words is most interesting.  Certainly produces pictures in the minds of readers.  Keep up the good work.  Thankfully, the death that has truly produced life aboundant is the death of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Well, today is a very special day: it's the 52nd anniversay of marriage for my wife and I.  We have reservations at a place called Abruzzi's (Abruzzi is the name of an area in Italy).  They have the finest Italian cousine there, and we both enjoy Italian (my grandmother's maiden name was Campiglia, to go along with the Dutch on the other side of the family).

It continues to rain, rain, rain here on the Lost Coast of N. California.  The last two days have been almost constant rain.  So the earth here has indeed been washed refreshed, and now thoroughly soaked.

GARETH!!  How wonderful to see you again!  Do come more often, won't you?  We miss you.

Karen, that is a well written story, and thank you for sharing.  God's business is bringing life out of death, and your story is a little snapshot of that power.

Larry, thanks.  I was planning to ask you today about Firefox, so now I know.  I'm so happy with you over the positive changes in your daughter.

I'm being attacked today with........uh..........negative thoughts, possibly depression, and I know it is the enemy.  I think what has helped bring it on was watching Beth struggling without success to open her gifts.  Her poor hands just don't want to work.  I ended up having to open her things for her.   I'm really talking to myself this morning, reminding me of God's goodness and mercy and love. And I know that this, too, shall pass, and I will soon be my normal, optimistic self.

On a brighter note, I did get an email today from my youngest daughter.  I don't hear from her often, so that was a treat.  Part of the problem today is missing her and the grandsons, and the other two kids who seem to have forgotton I exist.  All I can do is put it in the hands of my loving Father.  I know many of you are dealing with worse situations, so I shouldn't complain.

Marilyn, I'm so sorry to hear about your daughter's diagnosis.  As Larry said, treatment is much better now, and with your prayers to help, she will be fine, in the name of Jesus.

I really need to get going.  I will try to come in and address the rest of you wonderful folks later!

Ah yes the rain. Happy is laying between me and the desk making it very difficult to type so I now have the keyboard in my lap. Well now he moved.

Going back to work today but the last two days have been a nice break.

Karen I thoroughly enjoyed your story of the seeds and the desert. Having lived in the Mojave desert here in California I  can appreciate your descriptive phrases regarding the heat and the wind.

Christmas was wonderful with the two celebrations. Sarah's mother made me a beautiful quilt in a floral design that  looks Oriental, later I will take a picture of it  and post it in my gallery.

I see the wind blowing the  big tree  next door as I look out my window this morning. I remember our terrible wind and rain  from last New Years weekend, and how AL was cut off  his electric for 5 days me for two days. I am prepared this year. I  don't have a lot in my freezer, I have an emergency battery operated  lantern and windup radio and flashlights. Two cases of bottled water and plenty of food for the dogs and my cell phone is fully charged, I have a old fashioned land line phone as well as the cordless. So when he electric go off and the cordless no longer works I still have service. Too much useless info here right?

Got to go to work now

BYE

Possibly my posting has the opposite effect and not what was meant at all...Janet, I can relate only too well with your sadness about Beth.  I watch my daughter struggle with constant pain and marvel at her positive and courageous approach to life.  It is hard to keep from being angry at God for the way their lives have been changed by one selfish moment when a driver ran a red light, almost five yrs. ago.  One thing that I was trying to relate is that living in the past simply won't help.  We were looking at film of when Amanda was tiny and I know how hard it was for Wendy to see herself, filled with energy, walking and running on the beach.  I think back to the years of pain in my own life and sadness about family matters, but living in the past won't change anything.  So that is why I stated that God wants us to look forward, not back on unhappy things in the past.  We can't change our childhood...goodness knows mine was a horror.  We can't change our failures in life or the failures of others.  We can only look ahead, trust that God will always have control, and know we can rest in His love.  I sent a email to Marilyn saying that I will pray daily for her daughter, as I do for Beth and others.  Sometimes I feel like a little tree, clinging to a rock that is high on the mtn. in my much loved Alberta, but that tree continues to reach up towards the light......That was all I meant by my post.....most of us here are Christians.  It is nice to quote scripture and religious speak, sometimes it is nice to read what is real and that is what keeps one strong.

Liz

It was wonderful reading about everyone's Christmas and reading the story that Karen wrote. 

Hi, Gareth!!!  Good to see you post!  Come back!!

I didn't go to Kitty's, not because she was sick but we had a waiting time here.  We thought Ivalou's daughter would be here by 2pm but she didn't get here until 5pm and then we found out that Kaye Don and Barb were leaving this morning and returning to Florida.  So we waited for Teresa and all of us spent time with Kaye Don and Barb.  It was 8pm before I got back home...in the rain! 

But when a bathroom call came at 2 something this morning, everything was white!  Snow!  Then I heard the snowplow go past the house twice.  When I got up this morning, it was melted on the pavements and spotty in the grassy areas.  But did look so clean and refreshing.  I ate my breakfast and read my devotions and then tackled taking down my Christmas tree and decorations.  All is down and put away for another 11 months!  Now the furkids have their Kitty TV back!!  They are happy!! 

My dear Liz---My post had nothing to do with what you posted!  I had to go back and read yours again; and I see why I probably gave you that impression.  Actually, when I read yours earlier, I was (and am) in agreement with everything you said.  I do not have these times often, for that I am very thankful, as pity parties for one are NOT fun!  I admire your courage, plucky spirit, and the way you always look to the light, reaching for the positive things in life, in spite of the cruel blows you've been dealt. 
So, please do not think your words upset me.  And I apologize for giving you that impression.  ((((hugs))))

I'm feeling better now, I just called my sweet Diane, to share something her younger sister sent me, as Diane doesn't have internet at the store or the new house yet--still waiting.  Anyway, she always makes me feel better.  I have never had reason to doubt her love or loyalty.  God bless her!

I think I will go play with my scrapbooking stuff.  That should make me think of happy times!!

Etta Sue, I feel like that poor (fat) snowman today!!  Cute!

Etta Sue - I note two facts about the snowman rolling down the hill:
   1.  It's the easy way to go
   2.  It's fast.
All I have to say now is - - - - HELP!  I'm on the hill!  I'm rolling, rolling, rolling . . .

Hi y-all I am home until 5 PM when i go back  to prepare Ruth's supper. I have been there to fix her dinner (lunch to some of you) after I left Jan's Man today is such a dreary day very gloomy outside.

Jan gave me a  nice little stainless steel teapot with the basket inside for the loose tea, It holds two cups of water. I am not heating the water in there  but pouring in the boiling water over the leaves. She also gave me a kitchen timer that is a ladybug.   

I did get some things that I will never use so maybe I will just pack them up with the christmas decorations and regift them next year to someone else. I already regifted some kitchen towels and potholders that I didn't need and  probably would never use. Did you guys get stuff you didn't need and wouldn't use?

Sarah loved her foot spa that I got for her and Gilbert was crazy about his Leatherman's tool. I sure get a lot of use out of mine. He had it with him yesterday and used it to open  some of the presents for the kids.  I can't believe that my 10 year old grand daughter received a cell phone from her other grandma.

Gareth good to see you here again, Have you been traveling? Are you Pastoring a church now?

Wow Etta sue you are already getting rid of Christmas at your house. Putting away allt he decorations. I always leave mine up until new Years. Don't ask me why that's just the way it always was at home. 

Janet I still pray for Beth, Liz I pray for Wendy and Amanda.

Quote from: Larry Hanna on December 26, 2006, 10:06:27 AM

Jane, that sounds like a Cracker Barrel Christmas dinner.  Pat and I once had a Thanksgiving dinner in a Cracker Barrel when we were traveling on that day and it was very good.  I am glad you enjoyed your meal.

Yes, Larry, the meal was quite a bit like those served at Cracker Barrel except it was at a local restaurant in Coos Bay.  In fact, that is ALL that was being served yesterday, between 1 and 9 p.m.  They had turkey dinner, ham dinner, or a combination of turkey and ham ... it was probably the only restaurant open, too.   

Marilyn~ I didn't get anything that I couldn't use ... I didn't get anything, period!  My daughters called me (and so did you!) and that was about it.  Dot sent a 5x7 photo of her youngest, Jessica, in the uniform of her middle school's volleyball team.

My heart is full just knowing that Joy and Bryan were able to make connections with Jean's family and their children.  I pray this will be an ongoing thing.  I believe it will, as Joy has promised to stay connected with regular phone calls and Bryan is planning to celebrate his 21st birthday (January 8th) with his cousin Tim. 

   GOOD EVENING TO ALL I HOPE THAT YOU ALL HAD A WONDERFUL CHRISTMAS AND LIKE MOST OF US WE ALL HAD TO MUCH TO EAT.

WE WERE INVITED TO MY OLDEST SOMS INLAWS FOR DINNER WHICH IS ALMOST A TWO HOUR DRIVE AND THE DRIVE OUT WAS GOOD.  THERE WERE A TOTAL OF 18 THERE AND IT WAS A LOT OF FUN AND OF COURSE TO SEE THE CHILDREN THEY GROW UP SO FAST. THEN ON THE WAY BACK HOME THE WEATHER WAS NOT SO NICE GOT A LITTLE BIT OF SNOW FLURRIES.

THIS WHOLE WEEK WE HAVE FAMILY COMING TO THE HOUSE AND ITS WONDERFUL HOW THE LORD HAS ANSWERED OUR PRAYERS AS WE ASKED HIM TO USE OUR HOUSE FOR HIM AND THAT PEOPLE WOULD SEE THE LOVE OF CHRIST HERE IN OUR HOME. THERE IS JUST SOMETHING ABOUT BEING ABLE TO SHARE AND GIVE TO OTHERS.

HAVE A GREAT WEEK AND MAY THE LORD RICHLY BLESS YOU ALL.

Merry Christmas to everyone!  I know it is a difficult time of the year for those who are ill, away for various reasons from family, or just have tremedous trials to endure.  My heartfelt wish is for your comfort and peace. 

We were able to drive out of this heavy snowfall and enjoy several days of visiting.  Christmas Eve,  we attended a beautiful church service with a very good sermon and good songs from the choir and the congregation.  Am so pleased that everyone comes but it almost broke my heart to hear that one of our sons just would never go to church unless we had this tradition.  And, after all of the prayers I have made of asking for an emergency angel to come and put a whisper is the ear or some sign... it just isn't going to happen but I am not going to quit those prayers.  I surely don't know what I did wrong in bringing those children to church but our daughter is the only one who attends when they can.  All in all, we have so many blessings that I have to put this heartache aside. 

We are home today and now another snow is predicted in two days so must run and get quite a lot accomplished in case it is a big snowfall. 

I read the last two days comments - my best to everyone.

Carol

Hi, friends,

I've been resting all day - seems a head cold has me feverish and feeling bad. But, it's always good to come and share fellowship and the love of our Father.

Y'all have a good evening.

Ruth Ann

Just thought I'd share some news of Judy McKenna.  She's been moved back up to the Guelph Hospital now.  And on Christmas Eve, Norm was on his way over to visit her when he missed the turn.  So he turned around and then was driving back and hit something on the road (he doesn't know what it was) and this caused the air bags to deploy and his eyes filled with dust and he was momentarily blinded and he drove into the back of a brown truck.  Thats the only description he has and it was from someone who saw it happen.  But the truck kept on going and didn't stop but Norm's car is totalled.

He was taken to the hospital by ambulance to be checked over and he's very sore but ok.

Oh MY!!     How frightening -- and frustrating -- this must've been for Norm.  I do hope everything will be taken care of speedily and with as little expense and distress as possible.  It's good Judy Mc is closer home but still a real hardship for both her and Norm.  I'll be praying for them both.

well Ruth Ann it is good to see (hear from) you.  I am sorry you are not in peek form.  A day or two of rest is always good.

Carol the Chriatmas Eve services are always good.  We had an excellent service.  I was saying to John yesterday that we should pray first and act last.  So often we act first, and that is the human reaction.  

Gord abour those caps!  Glad you had a good holiday time.  Ours was quiet, much different from the celebrations we had at 69!

Jane next year come and visit us and enjoy the holidays with us.  

Marilyn I rarely get gifts that are not needed.  I give a lot of BIG hints all autumn and usually receive something on the list.

Al snowball rides are not always pleasant or fun.  going back up the hill can be just disasterous with sore knees!

Janet sorry you have been blue.  This often happens after holidays.  Am praying for you and your family.

Etta Sue we woke up to a winterwonderland today as well.  I wonder if it is going to stay?

Pat I am sorry about Norm.  That was quie an ordeal.  Where does his son live now, close enough to help his dad out?  Let them know I am praying for them both.

To everyone I didn't mention I have you in my prayers, and you can rely on that.  I pray each of you has a peaceful New Year.

God Bless
Judy

Judy, David McKenna lives in Michigan and Karen lives in Kingston so neither of the kids can help out.

Good Morning All,

So sorry to hear of the depressions and cancer and illnesses, just know that I pray for you all each day.

Marilyn ~ my mom had breast cancer, she could not do the chemo as she is frail so they did the tamoxifen and she is cancer free now.

Ruth Ann ~ being under the weather is not fun, I pray you feel better quick.

Janet ~ so sorry you are feeling blue, just know that Jesus has his loving arms around you and keep looking to Him.

Sorry to hear about the McKenna's, I'll be praying for them too.

My prayers are with you all.

Some friends of mine have been trying to adopt a child from Talica, Nicaraugua, he goes to the American embassy for his visa today, if all goes well we will all meet him next sunday. Pray everything works out for them.

We had a great Christmas. Michael got to see 2 of his siblings and their families. I'm sure glad that doesn't happen everyday though, we had 15 people in a small 5 room house and it got quite close in here. I think Michael was a tad bit overwhelmed though, just like I was. I think I took Missy out a few more times in the 4 hours everyone was here than I usually do. I just don't like crowds.

May you all have a God-filled and Blessed day! Talk to y'all later.

Trusting,
<><Jeannine

Good Morning. The wind blew and blew and blew last night and blew my tent down. It is all there but blown apart. Happy is afraid to go outside  and I don't know how he can hold it so long. I have been awake since about 1:30 when I discovered there was no power, it came back on the went off and on again.
I am  having a bit of an intestinal problem too. So not up to my usual self but have to go to work in a couple of hours. I went to Curves but only made it one time around the circuit.

Later

I'M BA-A-A-A-A-CK!!  And feeling like myself again, too!    None too soon for me, I do not like the blues!  I'm thankful for a loving and understanding (usually) spouse, a loving daughter and that I had a good conversation with my youngest daughter yesterday. A ll in all, it's a good life, even though there will always be problems and obstacles.

I'm so sorry about Norm's accident, on top of Judy's condition!!  Goodness, this is really "piling on," isn't it?  I will continue to pray for them.

I just installed Firefox, and at least now I have the edit button back!!  On the new tool bar for IE, it was missing, and I didn't know where to find it.  So much for copy and paste!!    I guess when it comes to computer, I don't appreciate  changes, it's difficult to learn, then they change it!  I know, showing my age........

The death of President Gerald Ford is all over the news this morning.  Do you wonder sometimes what people will say about you, when you are gone?  Hmmmmm..  I think it is terrible how they are STILL bashing Richard Nixon. 

This may be my last lazy day for a while.  Tomorrow I have to take Beth to get her braces for her legs, then in the evening we have a dinner to attend in Dodge City.  It's been nice to have some slow days, though.

Darrel is making hominy grits for breakfast.b .....   That's one thing for which I had to acquire a taste.

I think I may play with photos today, maybe print out some on my photo printer.  See you later!

G'Morning all y'all!     Windy here, too, Marilyn   And 1:30 is when I got up and found the power had been off!  All my digital clocks were flashing 12...12...12!     I think they had been off about 15 minutes according to the other clock by which I set them!

Today is the last day for my daughter Joy to be "stateside" as she leaves to return to Mexico very early in the morning.  It has been good for her to be with family and friends.  I know it lifted her spirits considerably and she returns home with a lighter heart as well as knowing what she needs to do to keep those blues away and have a healthier life. 

Janet~It's good to have you b-a-a-a-a-k     

Hi everyone.  Eating a bite of lunch so thought that would be a good time to write a bit.  Pat and I made a trip to Kaiser this morning as they called and wanted to check her blood pressure before renewing a prescription.  Her blood pressure was fine and it was a pretty morning to be out, although chilly.  On the way back we stopped for a few items at the grocery store.

Jane, nice to read that your daughter was able to be with her son and other family members. 

Janet, on the new Internet Explorer 7 a number of the commands are rather hidden on the right side of the screen where you have the little drop down arrows.  All the commands are still available but have been moved around.  Shortcuts, such as control c for copy and control v for paste still work the same.  I think you will like Firefox.  My dad liked hominy  but I sure never did.  However, I do like grits.

Marilyn, sorry to hear of your car tent and sure hope it can be put back together.  Sure hope you don't have a touch of the flu.

Jeannine, sometimes rooms just get too crowded.  It is nice to have the folks there but sure nice when they leave as well.

Pat, so sorry to hear of the new problems for the McKenna's.  Was Judy in a rehab facility or has she been the hospital all this time?

JudyB, I agree with you that you might as well drop those hints as to what you would like to receive for Christmas.  I think the giver also appreciates that as often they don't have much idea as to what a person would like to have.  I know this is particularly the case with older men.  My children have told me this many times.

Ruth Ann, sorry you have to have a cold during your home off from work but perhaps this will help you get a lot of rest during this time.

Carol, don't give up on your children not attending church.  This time last year I felt there just wasn't any chance that our daughter would attend church and two evenings ago we attended a candlelight service at the church she is now attending.  I am still holding out hope for our son.  When they grow up it is their decision to make and therefore all we can do is continue to pray for them.

Gord, sounds like you all had a very nice time.  Glad you made it home safe and sound.

Etta Sue, your white Christmas came a few hours late.  Sorry you weren't able to see all of the family you had planned.

Al, happy anniversary to you and your wife.  Hope you had a great dinner out. 

Liz, it is hard to watch those closest to us suffer continual pain.  I am sure you are a big help to your daughter.

Well, guess I had better get busy although I may take a little nap first.  I need to get a haircut and do an errand.  This evening our son and daughter-in-law will be here for dinner and for our Christmas together.

"God does not do anything with us, only through us."  Oswald Chambers

Jane, I just want to tell you how much encouragement I receive from this quote that you have on your messge each time.  It reminds me that I have to "do the doing" so to speak.

Here in Ohio our weather is sunny, but a a bit cold which is good at this time of the year. 

I have to take a list of The Ukulelians volunteer hours for December to our Senior Center today.  So I am thankful that the weather is nice.  My old 92 Plymouth Voyager is in for transmission repair (I'll get it back tomorrow).  My daughter has an appointment in the same area - so, I'll use her Jeep while she is at her appointment.  Then, we'll have to stop and get some "kitty litter" to put in my garage to clean up the oil spill.

I wish all of you a wonderful, cheerful, and productive day.

Nice to see those of you who have made it in here.

Mary Frances, so very good to see you.  How's your daughter that I met in Perrysburg?

Hey there ... Y'all wanna see something funny?  I just made a total elf of myself!    Check it out:

http://www.elfyourself.com/?userid=3549f326ed7d78d46fcdf65G06122710

My, My!  When it rains, it pours!  My prayers are for Judy and Norm.  What a sad thing to happen.  Not only is Judy in the hospital but now Norm has to get a new car so he can go see Judy at the hospital.  Bless their hearts.

Mary Frances ~ I am so sorry I forgot to say Hello the other day when you posted.  Please forgive me and realize that I was thinking about saying hello even if my fingers didn't type Hello! 

Janet ~ I haven't had the radio or the TV on yet today.  I didn't realize that President Ford had passed away.  Thanks for letting us know.  Us, who doesn't have the TV on the news.

All the snow is gone and now the ground is saturated with water and puddles.  My sump pump is running once in a while.  Today I got up and dusted and ran the sweeper.  I have three office chairs here in the comp-utility room.  I even turned them up and took a knife and scraped off the kitty litter that adheres to the wheels!  Nice shiny black wheels now! 

Now for 30 years of working, I had Friday after Thanksgiving off.  I never had a husband that helped with decorations so I used that day to put up my Christmas decorations while he was at work.  Then for 30 years, I had the week between Christmas and New Year's off work so I always took the decorations down the day after Christmas so I could relax and enjoy the rest of the week.  That's my story, and I am sticking to it!!         

That's a neat sight, Jane!  I made an elf of myself, copied and pasted url and emailed it to all my friends.  Then went to my Sent file, clicked on the clickable and it was YOU dancing!  I didn't do the right URL.  So I did it all again and got the right URL this time for my friends.!!  Whew!

 

HAHAHA!  Here's me!

http://www.elfyourself.com/?userid=4b6c76544e128799b602de7G06122712

Awww, too bad I can't find one picture of me to upload...and I wanted to be a dancin' elf so badly.

Oh, my Christmas Blend smells so good this morning. 

See you later!

In His Grip,
Kevin

  <3Good afternoon to you all.
We again have company coming tonoght for dinner and then the family arrive tomorrow that would be my wifes side and the kids are coming also.  So we have to keep them entertained somehow.

Pat.  Well I must say you do look good as an elf.  I have not seen you move that much in a long time.  HA HA HA. Its so good to have fun.

Judy B. What did you mean in the first part of your last posting to me I did not catch it.

Well it has been a very busy time and I have to help the wife to clean up but also am going to catch 40 winks if possible.  Pat sorry to here about the couple that had the accident will remember them in prayer

God bless to all others and lets remember to pray for our family members who dont know the Lord.  God bless   Gord.

Quote from: JudyB on December 26, 2006, 10:36:09 PM

Jane next year come and visit us and enjoy the holidays with us.  

You just might be surprised, Judy!  If I start out now, maybe I can make it by next year, y'think?

Pat    I love it!!  I don't think I've ever moved like that, myself!   

Hey Kevin ... why not let Jazz be an elf?  You could teach him how to dance. 

Pat:  Such a shock for Norm and I do hope that they both recuperate quickly. 

JudyB:  Easter is my favvorite service time but Good Friday service can be heartwrenching and somber.  Christmas Eve is my 2nd. most favorite service if I have to choose. 

Larry:  I will listen to what you wrote about the possibilty of things changing for the better. 

Jane:  It would be fun to see you visit JudyB.  Take care out there with all the Pacific storms.

Don is taking a very long nap today and he is all "tuckered out".  I hope he sleeps well tonight.  I stopped at the church to get some notes into the bulletin - asking for help with quilts that must be finished by the end of January.  Also, a big trip to a super grocery store that was a madhouse as another storm is predicted by tomorrow.  Am always amazed at the young people buying cases of water when we have fresh mountain water right at the tap and another thing is the unhappy & crabby people if the line doesn't move fast enough - Lord, grant me peace.

Carol

Here's Smokey as an elf!

http://www.elfyourself.com/?userid=3b1832cb50fdac0fcc3ed42G06122716

    I want to see all the dancing elves, but can't seem to get the flash thing downloaded properly.

Mary Frances, so good to see you again.

We didn't go to church tonight as Curtis and Toni came up and spent the afternoon with us, and then we took them to supper.  They just left.

I was so sorry to see our good Kansas Attorney General defeated in the last election, in a really dirty ad campaign by the winner.  Kline (present AG, but only for 2 more weeks) was really trying to get criminal charges pressed against Dr. Tiller (the baby killer) the worst abortion provider in the US.  The judge made a really wrong ruling when he said Kline had no right to bring criminal charges against Tiller, because the county attorney said she didn't want the charges brought.  Kline has one more chance to get the charges reinstated.  It is just awful to have my state known  as the abortion capital of the whole country. 

I didn't get any photos printed, but did get the date stamp in my camera turned off, and it only took three of us three hours to figure out how to do it. 

I think I will get off here and try to get to bed earlier tonight.  See you tomorrow!

Hi, all.  Lovely elves you each make. Pat, you are looking pretty nifty.  Jane, you look like you were made to move like that.  Smokey made the cutest elf!

I'm really tired tonight.  I didn't do a lot for Christmas, but have been resting a lot in between taking Christmas decorations down.  Etta Sue, we are so on the ball!  I took our tree down today, plus lights and misc decorations.   The tree was in front of the window, and I couldn't see out very well.  I took the tree down first thing this morning.

My clock was flashing this morning too.  I knew the lights had been off during the night, but I slept right through the storm.  I notice a little more of my roof shingles are on the ground.   My son in law said he'd fix it when we have some good weather.

Marilyn, I'm so sorry about your new pole tent thing being down.  I hope it can be fixed again. 

That's awful about Norm's accident.  I'm so grateful that he is ok.  God was sure watching over him.

Carol, it seems more and more people are so used to bottled water, they don't even like the taste of tap.  But I'd think that fresh mountain water would taste great.  I know if I drink bottled for awhile, then go back to ours, with the additives, I don't like the taste.  Can't afford bottled, so I drink tap just fine.

Etta Sue....about sending Jane the Elf to friends.......I almost did the same thing.  I had the link all ready and decided to click on it to be sure, and there was Jane, dancing away.  I had to do it over, like you did. lol

I'm heading to my recliner with a nice cup of tea and two sleepy little critters.   Nita

My tent/garage will be back up in no time. Bill from across the street and Chris who helped put it up the first time came by this afternoon and knocked on my door saying they were the repair team. they have mine all down and dismantled, Bill is going to straighten out the pieces that are bent and they will put it back up for me, They will be putting the one next door up too. I love this neighborhood.  sure put me in the right place.

Gilbert and Sarah are still without power and don't expect it to be back on until tomorrow sometime.

I spent all afternoon in bed keeping warm. I didn't feel so good as I told y-all this morning. Then I sat in my Dr's. office for an hour and never did get to see her I had to leave to go fix Ruth's supper. So now I have an early morning appt on the  9th. The nurse is faxing  the  request for blood draw to the hospital so when I do have my appt with the Dr. I will already have had the blood draw. TMI

Later

http://www.elfyourself.com/?userid=7c2c667d4231d8839247113G06122718

Hi, friends,

I saw the doctor this morning, so hope that the strong medications prescribed will "do the trick" and get me better fast.

While at Wal Mart, I asked for a listing of the generic drugs they will fill for just $4 for a month's supply. Wow, I see where I'll be spending some of my Rx dollars in 2007!

I'm unable at this time to serve as moderator, so have asked Pat to remove my name from the moderators list. However, I still plan to be actively participating, and at some later date when there's more time, I may be able to again pick up responsibilities at this wonderful site.

Nita and Marilyn, I'm really thankful the high winds didn't do even worse damage. Hopefully all can be repaired shortly.

Janet, glad you're feeling better.

I read every post. Jeanine, your comments warm my heart. I'm so sad for the difficults Norm and Judy are having. The elves dancing around in this site brought a chuckle.

Larry, take your rest periods - we appreciate you and all you do. I truly agree with you - with God all things are possible and He does answer our prayers - even those of many years standing. I heard a child of mine pray last weekend - have not heard that for many years. I saw two of my children embrace who have been estranged. And even more answers to prayer over the weekend.

I have mentioned all who post, but please know that I certainly do love all of y'all.

Have a good evening.

Ruth Ann

Marilyn, I'm still giggling at you as an elf!  Jane, thanks so much for the fun and Smokey is a perfect elf.  I tried to put Geordie in but his ears were up too far and the hat wouldn't go on so I guess you have to cut off the ears.

LOL

Now, let's see you Al!

Marilyn, get well soon.

Now, about you Etta Sue sending Jane around.  I did the same thing.  So many got Jane!!!  Then I found out that I was logged on as Jane I guess so had to re-send mine!   

Hi Gord!  We'll have to see you as an elf!

MArilyn and Ruth Ann I am sorry you are not feelling well.  I pray the cause/cure works quickly. 

Pat any news update about Norm?

Gord John and I were driving home from N Bay tonight and you were the topic of conversation.  We will be down to see you soon I hope.  While we are down there I would like to see a friend in Sarnia.  I know it is a long way but you are closer to her than we are up there and it will maximize the miles/gas.  I will keep you updated.

We spent a lovely evening at a friends home in the country.  We had a wonderful time talking and sharing.  It seems we have a scots heritage in common as well as a spiritual herritage. 

Well it is late, we are tired, and heading to bed.

I'm stopping in to say hello before leaving to take Beth to get her braces.  We are to get snow again, maybe tonight, maybe tomorrow.  And after I get home from Garden I will put the van in the garage, and Darrel and I will leave for Dodge in the car.  Too many miles!!

Marilyn and Ruth Ann, get well quick!!

I want to see the elves dance.     Wish I knew how to create a whatever so I could see them, and lots of the attachments I get and can't open.    Any instructions, Larry?

Well, I must be getting out and about.  It always takes extra time to get Beth's coat on her, check her out, and get her loaded into the van.  See you probably tomorrow.

Good Morning, I am feeling lots better today, It was just a 24 hour thing I guess. I went to bed at 7:30 last night and to sleep about 8:30-9:00 didn't even wake up once until 4:45. That is good for me, I am usually up at least twice during the night.

Everything is frozen here this morning I have been out to warm the car and thaw the windows which will probably be allf rozen again before I leave. In about an hour.

Happy is just sitting out in the backyard and I am so glad he has so much fur to keep him warm. I wish I had his fur coat. 

Just babbling here this morning, nothing of any importance to say.

L8R

Hi everyone.  It was in the low 30s here this morning but the sun is out and it is suppose to warm up for the next few days.  They are saying that the storm coming across the country will give us a lot of wind and possible tornados tomorrow or the next day.  I haven't heard an updated forecast today.

Our daughter is back in the hospital with another apparent heart attack.  We don't know how bad it was but one of the blood tests came back indicating elevated enzymes and her EKG apparently showed some change.  I spoke to her a little while ago and she said the last blood test had come back normal.  She hasn't talked to the doctor yet.  She is in a terrible mood and really wasn't pleasant to speak with as is finding fault with the hospital, those that are there to help her and it seems about everything.  I am very concerned about her.  She had had a stress test and echo cardiogram done yesterday and was returning to her apartment on the bus when she had terrible chest pain and they called an ambulance and took her to the hospital.  They admitted her but she doesn't know whether she will be released today or not. 

Needless to say I don't feel much like posting this morning but know that we must leave these things in God's hands.

Janet, I have seen the elf site but not worked with it so don't think I can help you. 

Hope those that are sick will be feeling better by the end of the day.

Janet ~ When I go to a website that won't open properly, it tells me below the browzer line that I need additional plug-ins.  I click that and install them...then the website works fine.  You really are missing all the cute elves! 

Larry ~ So sorry to hear about your daughter and her health problems.  I know that is hard on you and Pat.

Marilyn ~ I am so glad you are feeling better now.  Two of my family/friends have has what is going around and yes, it lasts about 24 hours. 

Ruth Ann ~ Get well quick!

I can't begin to tell you how many different elves I have seen since looking at Jane Elf.  I think my DIL elfmorphisted everyone she had a photo off and sent it to that person and me.     But what a cute site and that dancing elf sure knows how to move! 

I went over to Ivalou's yesterday afternoon to see Alexis and Connal, her two g-grandkids that she watched yesterday because their grandma was sick.  Connal is a fast one.  And sorry to say, his parents don't tell him 'No'.  They just remove him from what he is getting into, hand him a toy and say, 'Connal, play with your toys'.  So he doesn't mind and is lightening fast.  Ivalou said she would tell him 'No, Connal.  That isn't yours'.  He would put it back...not where Ivalou had it...but would go right back to it.  Connal just turned two.  Alexis was a big help in watching Connal. 

Connal's mommy came and got them and then Ivalou and I went to Wendy's for a hamburger...we were tired of leftovers! 

Kitty emailed me yesterday afternoon and asked me to come over last evening.  So I went over there.  She is such a delight to talk to.  I tried to help her with her laptop...I did get Firefox installed for her to use instead of IE.  Then we installed Goggle Earth.  But it was black where they live.  I need to see if mine is black at their house. 

So it was a great day yesterday.  Today is cool and the sun came out in the last half hour.  Solar heat is working and the sump pump is working.  Maybe the basement will get dried out soon.

Hey there all y'all!    

I had/have problems getting online with my server (peoplepc) since yesterday evening.  I could get online but just got "page not found" after that.  I thought it was something with my computer (I always think it's my fault, y'know  ) but got to thinking about it and decided if I could get online it had to be a problem with the server. 

So..... I just tried again (after many attempts and a system restore for my pc) and got to the home page for peoplepc and from there came directly here ... I can also get to other websites so I know it's the server NOT ME!!!    TMI   

I'm kinda tired from all that elf dancing I've had to do as y'all have been sending me all over the place!      My sister sent that to me the other day and I got to playing with it.  If you hold your mouse over the icon in the lower right corner then you will see a menu for all sorts of things you can do .... click on Elf Yourself and that lets you create your own stuff.    Also, if you are watching a dancing elf ... at the end is a box that asks if you want to watch it again or creat your own.  You can create your own and then you can "send it to your friends"  I don't understand how I got sent in your place, though!     It really is fun.  As my sister said: "Obviously I have too much time on my hands!"

Marilyn you sure can move!  Also I love Smokey elf...     Glad everyone is enjoying the site .... sorry that Janet is having a problem, though.

Carol~I have thought, several times, that I would change that Oswald Chambers quote but then haven't done it.  I really believe that God doesn't need our help ... we sure do need His, though!  If we can get ourselves out of the way and let him use us ... that is His desire.  He will work through us as we allow Him access.   

Larry~This isn't good news about your daughter.     It seemed she was doing so well over Christmas, and you were rejoicing in the improvement, and now this set-back.  I will continue in my prayers for her ... God knows all about it, and her, and us, and just what to do about everything! 

Ruth Ann~I have been smiling about all your reports on your family these past days.  I know your heart is full of gratitude for the reconciliations and peace that have taken place.  Please get "all better" fast, okay?  Wal-Mart prescriptions for $4 is a real boon if they have your medication  available.  My neighbors use them for the many medications they need.   

The sun is shining and the frost is melting so I need to get out and get something done while I can.  I'll be back and talk atcha later ....... 

Hi Everyone...

I've been over to give my friend her chemo injection and now I must go to Home Depot and buy a new toilet seat. 

So I'll be back a little later.

Love those elves.

I am safely home, and Beth was in a better mood today, which certainly helped.  They used the shoes she had, still new, bolted the braces into the soles of them, and there are steel straps up the sides of her legs, and then a leather strap fastens around her leg just below the knee.  It sure looks a lot better to see her with shoes on, and her feet sitting straight on the platform of her chair.  She said before we got home, though, that her feet were hurting.  So I told her to have them take the shoes off for an hour or so, then put them back on.  It stands to reason she will have to adjust again, after having not worn shoes for a whole year.

Larry, I sure know what you mean about moods.  Sometimes when I go to see Beth, she is so grouchy I leave quickly.  I know it's a hard life, but why not make the best of it?  She also complains about a lot of the people who are there to help her, and I tell her that the nicer she treats them, the nicer they will treat her.  Sigh........

Etta Sue, I will have to look again and see if I can find whatever it is they want me to have before I can see the elves. 

I have a few things to do before I get ready to leave again.  Bye!

Just finished all the ironing & laundry - we ran errands this morning.  Went to exercise & I had a funny feelling afterwards but it probably meant that I needed to eat something.  We are already getting the first part of another storm in the area. 

Nita:  We will have tea together - I just bought some Peach Passion decaf tea. 

Marilyn: It sounds like you are in the perfect neighborhood.   Good to read that you are better today.  By the way, if you leave your car warming up outside you can get a big ticket here for polluting the air.  I thought everywhere it was the same.  Stay warm.

RuthAnn: What a lovely time for you to see peace between the children. 

Larry: Your daughter must be very frightened and it just seems unstopable - her attacks - now.  Let's pray and hope that the medical wizards can help her with something different to control her health.

Jane: Thanks for your message.  I reread your quote. 

Pat: Are you into snowy days now?  Take care.

Janet Glad that you had a better day with Beth.  I hope that her shoe situation gets sorted out.

Colin:  Hello, I have not seen you posting lately.  Wishing you a very good New Year. 

Carol

LArry I am sorry about the situation with your daughter.  It is hard to be in a place you don't want to be in, but as Janet said the nicer you are the nicer they will be.  Amazing what a smile can do.  I will pray for her.

Janet it will be hard to get used to shoes again.  I go shoeless most of the summer and find that wearing shoes again in the fall is hard.  I can imagine hoe she feels.  I hope the people at her home will co-operate with her and leave them on for short intervals till she is used to them.

I have Kassie feeling under the weather.  Nausea, headache and the rest that goes with it.  There is a bug going around that hangs on and hesitates to let go.  The doc thinks that is what she has.  It is hard to see her just lying around, she is normally so active.

We have a visit with friends tonight.  Rose is the daughter of dear friends we had for years.  Her Mom is with the Lord, and Dad is still kicking.  We will go around 7 and no idea when we will be home.  Last night's visit was late, fun but late.

MArilyn glad you slept well, hope you keep on getting better.

Ruth Ann you get some rest and get better too!

Pat I admire your ministry to those who are sick and needing help.  Keeping you in prayer sis.

GTG love to all
Judy

  ;DGood evening to all. I am so glad that I have the time to be able to read all the postings and to find out about each of you. It would be nice if you could put where you all live.

Larry.  I will remember your daughter and it must be so hard for her not knowing the future  but God knows what is going on.

Janet .  Please tell me where you live and i hope that all is well.

Judy B.  On the 26th. of Dec. you started the posting to me by saying  .  Gord about those caps!  I still dont know what you mean about this.   Please answer by posting or by email thanks.

Pat.  Hope that you had a good time at Janices place and that you are feeling o.k.

To all others who have posted may the Lord be with you the rest of this week I must go for know.  Gord

Hi, friends,

Just popping in for a moment. I agree - anything new on my feet feels odd, too. So, maybe they'll help her get gradually accustomed to the braces.

Larry, it's sometimes hard to be sunny when you don't feel like it. The temptation is to look for faults in caregivers because they represent our own inabilities to handle our physical situations. I have a friend who tries really hard to treat her caregivers very well. She's permanently disabled, having had more than one amputation on each leg, with both above the knee now.

Gordon, only comment about the caps is that when a person uses the caps lock, it can make the posts difficult to read. I think that's what she was talking about. And, you're not using the caps lock key now, so all is well.

Etta Sue, solar heating helps so much. I look forward on cold winter mornings to the bright sunshine pouring through my vehicle windows as I head to work facing east. It helps make the truck cab warmer very quickly.

Marilyn, let's both get better.

Jane, Nita, Judy, Pat, Colin, and all who aren't mentioned - have a good day.

I'm about to take my cold to bed for the evening. I do think that all the medication made me feel a little better later today. Thank goodness it will be another long weekend to rest.

Y'all have a good day.

Ruth Ann

Janet - on an occasion I don't now remember in the past  I had been feeling sorry for myself in a situation in which I had people  caring for me.  Someone said to me, "Al, have you blessed any of these people today?  It was a revelation.  I realized that I had been focussed inwardly.  I also realized that satisfaction in life comes from blessing others, not from getting care and attention.  I tried it.  I tried thinking of something nice to say to one of the people helping me.  I actually was enabled to say it!  I've never forgotten how much better I felt when I saw joy on the other person's face ! 

It's not always an easy thing to communicate, but God can give you a way.

As a caregiver, I am on the other side of this. I do appreciate when someone tells me good things and appreciates the help I give. I appreciate the smiles and compliments. Who doesn't?

You all remember the times I came on here talking about how bad Fay treated me.
Ruth and Jan as so different from Fay. Fay was so finicky about her food and always told me I didn't know how to cook even though I would tell her I am a good cook. But she only wanted  a few things to eat. Now Ruth will eat whatever I fix for her and likes to be surprised by what I fix.

TTYL

Let's see if this works.  If you have RealPlayer, and want to hear my church's handbell concert, click on the link below and you will see a picture of a handbell. 

To the right of that are some red characters.  That should give you the RealPlayer link for the concert.

http://www.mitakigc.com/event2006.html

I will check back to see how it's working.

Running errands,
Kevin

It's working Kevin. Very nice.

Kevin, that's fantastic!  I have it on right now!

Thanks for the link.

Good Morning all,
Yesterday I finally got to see the orthopedist about my shoulder. Despite the fact that I have multiple tears and one is fairly serious, he wants me to go through 6 weeks of physical therapy.  I tried to tell him that I have rested it, done some easy stuff with it and still have too much pain and this is what he tells me. Oh well, they supposedly know better.

The couple I mentioned in the last post who are trying to adopt a young boy from Nicaragua were disappointed the other day. Julio's visa was denied. I don't know what they can do next, I guess we will find out Sunday. They have been working on this for 2yrs so far.

Things here are quiet now. I love having family around but am glad when they have to go back to their own places.  15 people in this small house is too much.

Time to start Michael's breakfast, I pray you all have a God filled and Blessed day!

<><Jeannine

Good Morning Everyone!

Jeannine, I'm so sorry about your arm.  I went through this after Jack died and ended up having to have surgery.  It was awhile before the doctors realized too that I needed much more than therapy.

That was a lovely concert, Kevin.  It stopped at 54 minutes for me and my Real Audio just kept saying "communicating" and it didn't matter what I did...it wouldn't go past 54 minutes but I heard the lovely flute player and the rest playing "Grace, grace, God's Grace" and "Amazing Grace" and I so enjoyed it.

Now, how are the rest of you today?

What are your plans?  Any plans to take some photos?

As I was reading my Bible this morning, I found myself humming this hymn and just meditating on how faithful our God is.


.

"Great Is Thy Faithfulness" - that's a great New Year's hymn, is it not!  He has been faithful in every way for another year, and we trust He will indeed be so again for this next one as well.

Hi everyone.  Just back from coffee at the local senior center.  We only had 10 men show up this morning but we could all visit with each other as the tables were pushed together and we all sat around the outside of the tables.

We are planning on visiting our daughter in the hospital today and take her some clean clothes.  They told her yesterday they wanted to keep her for a couple more days to try to regulate her medicine.  She had a mild heart attack this time and the doctor indicated he didn't think her heart would survive a major heart attack.  She had an occurrence a few days earlier that was probably a heart attack as she awoke in the night in such pain she couldn't even call out for help.  So this was either or second or third heart attack since August.  Pat just spoke with her and she got through the night OK.  The hospital is clear downtown Atlanta and I am not looking forward to the drive.

Kevin, the handbells are very nice.  Thanks for sharing.

Jeannine, hope the therapy will help. 

My wife tells me I am probably too congenial when I am in the hospital but I have always appreciated each and everything that the nurses and doctors have tried to do for me.  Janet, I agree with you that you usually get better care if the caregiver doesn't dread coming to your room and who wants to go into a room with a grouchy patient.  Being grouchy isn't going to change anything except make the caregiver less willing to be in your presence. 

I remember an experience I had years ago when I lived in Missouri and was serving on the deacon board of our church.  We had a tape and flower ministry and we took the sermon tape to shutins right after the service.  There was this one lady, who had been crippled by polio many years earlier, who was confined to bed.  She had the most pleasant demeanor and I always enjoyed visiting with her. 

Carol, it sounds like you all got a lot of snow again in the Denver area.  Hope you won't be confined to your home for as long as before.  I haven't seen any reports for today.

I thank all of you for your expressions of concern for my daughter.  I know that she is in God's hand and he will take care of her. 

Hope everyone has a nice day.

Kevin ~ I can't tell you how much I am enjoying the Hand Bell concert.  What talented ladies.  But I must say the girl to the very right sure has some large bells.  I loved it when they costumed themselves for the Parade of the Soldiers. 

I was up very late last night....1:45am and up very late this morning...10:00am.  Why?  I was traveling all over the U.S. on Goggle Earth.  My son called me and told me that he was on his lawn mower at his house.  Sure enough!  You can see my solar heat panel on my roof and my landscaping.  It was fun to go around the neighborhood and see things I didn't even realize was there.  For instance, there is a woods west of me.  These satellite photos were taken before leaves on trees and in that woods there are 6 homes...not little cabins..big homes.  You can't see them from the road at all!  Very interesting! 

Bright and sunny in central Indiana.  46°F.  Not shirt sleeve weather but nice. 

Good Morning, it sure is cold here this morning, I was out of here at 8:30 to go to Curves after I warmed up the car and thawed the windows.

I am taking Ruth to the Arcata Senior center for the Month end birthday celebration for the December Birthdays. She like to get out and go to the Senior Center pretty often.

Etta Sue you just have to stop all the night spying on your neighbors.  Get some sleep woman!

Larry I am praying for Stacey here.

Willa finished her Radiation a couple of weeks ago and she told me yesterday that she has had another biopsy on the other breast now. Please keep her on your prayer list.

Laters