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Morning Devotional...
 
Psalm 16:1.  "Preserve me, O God, for in You  I put my trust."

David asks in this psalm for the critically needed help of His God.  But, like David, our Lord Jesus Christ also faced a critical need at the time of His  approaching Cross, Judgement, and the tomb.  With those aweful things in mind, you'll remember that our Lord said to His Father, "If it is Your will, take this cup away from Me; nevertheless  not My will, but Yours be done."  It's a similar prayer to that of David..

Our Lord  expressed His hope that His "flesh also will rest in hope - for You will not leave my soul in sheol, nor will You allow Your holy One to see corruption.  You will show Me the path of life."   His Father did indeed "show Him the path of life" through Resurrection and Ascension.

Is Jesus Christ the Lord of your life?  If so, then His continuing life is your assurance of preservatlion through the trials in your life and even through death itself.  Let David's words, therefore, be yours each day of your life and say to Him, "Preserve me, O God, for in You I put my trust."  He hasn't changed.
!Al Moak

Hi everyone. 

Just back from coffee and then went and had my car inspected.  I was a little worried as the service light had come on Saturady but it didn't yesterday or today so guess it must have been a misfire.  We have to get the emissions inspection before we can get the license for the year.  Pat's birthday is next month and this car is in her name so the license becomes due in July.  I will wait until next month to purchase the license and pay the tax.

Don't have much planned today as don't have anything on my schedule that will require going out again, unless I change my mind.  I am looking forward to a quiet day and will just work on one of my projects here on the computer.

Al, thanks for that fine devotional for the week.  We need to surrender our own will and seeks God's will for our lives.  This was certainly the message that Christ sent with his words from the cross.

Etta Sue, glad you were able to get to the ballgames but certainly too bad you didn't get to see Erik pitch.  It sounds like you are feeling better.  How many more days before you can talk again?

Hope everyone has a great day.

Good Morning the fog is back here on the left coast. Thank you Al for the lovely devotional this morning. I am leaning more and more on God and trusting him with everything. I am spending more time in prayer, I do believe that the people int he grocery store think I am crazy talking to myself or something. But I am even praying as I walk through the stores shopping, as I exercise at Curves and as I walk the street with my dogs, Yes even while driving I am praising the Lord and praying.

"I will bless the Lord at all times and His praise shall continually be in my mouth"

Today is the usual day for me, Taking Ruth to the senior Center for dinner/lunch, making her do her physical therapy and drink her Ensure, preparing her supper. Walking my dogs on my afternoon break and spending time with the Lord.

Hello to all who will come into our little coffee shop today. There is a big pot of  Organic Rainforest coffee on the counter over there by Jane in the corner, Hot water for tea, and some Organic Whole Wheat and Flax bread and sugarless homemade Blackberry jam for toast and jam. Help yourselves and enjoy, I made the jam myself. Al already knows how good it is he went though 4 pints very quickly  a couple of years ago. Enjoy.

Nita thank you for posting on my blog.

Good morning.  Every monday, I think of janet and her telling us one time that what we do on Monday is a good indication of what we will get done during the week.  Oddly enough, she's right.  Soooooo, I'm trying to get some stuff done today.  Cleaning the house is the first thing on my agenda.  ugh.

I hope everyone had a nice weekend.  Happy (Belated) Father's Day.  I missed my daddy yesterday.  he died 8 days before Travis was born, and sometimes it seems like forever since I've seen him.  Other times it seems like he was just here. 

Have a good one, today!!!

Good morning.  I do think this last surgery zapped my energy.  It is either that or the dry heat in Indiana.  We are usually very humid but with no rain for two weeks and none in the future...maybe next Tuesday, we are soooo dry.  Lots of brown dead looking lawns here.  Never seen it so dry in June before. 

And Larry, tomorrow I can talk again.  I will be honest.  I have been talking...just not carrying on conversations.  And not talking very strong...meaning loud.  And my cold is much better.  At least I can breath without rattling in my lungs. 

Yes, I thought about my Dad yesterday too.  He was an electronic/gadget nut like me.  Or I like him.     He passed away in '87.  When you get to thinking about that, there is a lot of technology unleashed in the electronics department.  He even passed away before camcorders and VHS players.  How he would have been at the heighth of glory to record something on his camcorder...take out the VHS tape and sock it into a VHS player and see it on his own TV...almost immediately!  Yes, I miss him.

Al ~ Thank you for the devotion today.  Wonderful!

Like I say...too hot and dry in Indiana to do anything.  All of Indianapolis is banned in watering their lawns!!!  Started out odd and even days...now no watering!  All the ponds and lakes are drying up!  So I guess today sounds like a great day to read my Amish book. 

Good morning from the Oregon coast.  It's gloriously sunny.  It would be warm already if we didn't have the wind.   We had a strong wind yesterday, so today remains to be seen.

Ok.  Taking Janet's cue, I'll find something industrious to fill this Monday, so the rest of my week will be accomplished as well.   I do need to buy some herbs for the herb garden my son created for us.  I'll do a little weed eating and that should be enough to set the weekly pattern.  Right Janet?  Karma?

Marilyn, you're very welcome re posting to your blog.  The picture of you and your grandkids was really cute.

I know I said I'd NEVER have a blog, didn't know what to do with one, or what to say, etc.  Now I have to take it back. haha   I have one.  I didn't want to tell anyone in case I decided to delete it.  I suppose it will evolve into who I really am after awhile.  Mostly it's just pictures now.
If you want.....visit Rainee's World.   If you don't want, I don't blame you. haha   Blogging and visiting takes time.  I decided to because my sister, Sue, wanted to have a place to post her pics. I did mine first, and then helped her.   My other sister, Faye, already has hers. (Pat visits Faye's blog).  Now we are three sisters blogging.  One sister to go.

http://raineesworld-nita.blogspot.com/

Praise God from who all blessings flow!  We are blessed.   Nita

Nita, that's a really nice blog (website to me).  I showed it to Marbeth too, so it's really getting popular now.

I just visited Nita's Blog....so popularity is increasing.  Liked it Nita.  Might have a try myself in distant future....!

Would love to give some of our cloud and rain to Etta Sue and other drought areas.  No rain at the moment, just cool and cloudy.  Good thing as the other day a house down the street burned down.  Their neighbor was working on his car in his garage, when it caught fire.  Spread rapidly and burned down their house....total ruin.  Saved the dog tho' as the owner was home and we all came over with hoses until the fire dept. arrived.  It is a volunteer fire dept. and takes a bit to arrive.   I feel so sorry for them, young couple with kids.  I guess it must have been a separate garage from the guy's house, have not heard how his house is.  It was something to see how the whole street turned out to help.  This has been such a nice area...guess that will soon change with all the new building and those people wanting a city lifestyle, not semi rual as it has been. 

Amanda had to rescue Billy Bob (neighbor's cat) last night.  A cat came into their yard and beat him badly.  She ran over (nightime) and brought him into the garage for repairs.  Pets, we have Misty in before dark, wish they would not leave him out all night.  Lots of new animals in the area and they are not NICE!

I am also reading an Amish book, Etta Sue.  It is an Amish Mystery story.  I also have a real good Amish recipe book.  Baked one of their pies on Sat. and it is great.  Lemon Sponge Pie, yumm! 

Have any of you read this Pet Tale?  It is sort of cute:

Why God Created Pets

A newly discovered chapter in the Book of Genesis has provided the answer to "Where do pets come from?" Adam said, "Lord, when I was in the garden, you walked with me everyday. Now I do not see you anymore. I am lonesome here and it is difficult for me to remember how much you love me." And God said, "No problem! I will create a companion for you that will be with you forever and who will be a reflection of my love for you, so that you will love me even when you cannot see me. Regardless of how selfish or childish or unlovable you may be, this new companion will accept you as you are and will love you as I do, in spite of yourself." And God created a new animal to be a companion for Adam. And it was a good animal. And God was pleased.

And the new animal was pleased to be with Adam and he wagged his tail. And Adam said, "Lord, I have already named all the animals in the Kingdom and I cannot think of a name for this new animal." And God said, "No problem! Because I have created this new animal to be a reflection of my love for you, his name will be a reflection of my own name, and you will call him DOG." And Dog lived with Adam and was a companion to him and loved him. And Adam was comforted. And God was pleased. And Dog was content and wagged his tail.

After a while, it came to pass that Adam's guardian angel came to the Lord and said, "Lord, Adam has become filled with pride. He struts and preens like a peacock and he believes he is worthy of adoration. Dog has indeed taught him that he is loved, but perhaps too well." And the Lord said, "No problem! I will create for him a companion who will be with him forever and who will see him as he is. The companion will remind him of his limitations, so he will know that he is not always worthy of adoration." And God created CAT to be a companion to Adam. And Cat would not obey Adam. And when Adam gazed into Cat's eyes, he was reminded that he was not the supreme being. And Adam learned humility. And God was pleased. And Adam was greatly improved. And Dog was happy. And the Cat didn't give a hoot one way or the other.

                                   

Pleasant Day/Evening and God Bless.

Liz

Nita I have been to visit your blog. It is a wonderful place, with such calming thought.

Well y-all I  came home so aggravated at the weekend caregiver, who can not seem to follow even ONE instruction. Not even the Doctor's orders for physical therapy and Ensure. I was going to vent  but after reading Nita's blog and letting the Lord  have my angry thoughts I  feel better and  don't need to vent.

Thank you Jesus for letting me cast all my cares upon you.

TTYL

 Marilyn:  Perhaps I will come for tea.

Yesterday (Sunday )  without listening to the radio we headed out to the Husky Restaurant at Hwy 88 and the 400 for brunch when we got near we found out the 400 both ways was closed serious accident. We finally got our brunch 1 1/2 hours later the restaurant was short staffed and busy. Just as we left the hwy was opened and we proceded to our destination at Hwy 89 and then home.  All roads in the area were slow now today the same stretch of Hwy is closed again with another serious accident what a mess out there.

We went to a favorite restaurant on Hwy 27 for breakfast, then along came 3 friends whom we had not seen for some time nice to visit with them as well.   

I must be on my way.     Ruth

WAHHHHH!!!    I had a long post ready to go, and the cyber gremlins snatched it right off the screen!  Too tired to redo it just now, but I am home, and will be back later.  Love you all.

Hi, friends,

I'm here. I lurked a moment today while saving a file that wouldn't let me do anything else on my computer except read on the internet.

Well, Karma, if today's any indication of day's to come this week, maybe I can get caught up on my rest.

I met the Monday deadline, did the daily work on my major client, and then kind-of coasted the rest of the day.

After I got home, I promptly fell asleep for about an hour's nap, so the rest really must have been what I needed.

Y'all have a good evening.

Ruth Ann

Hi everyone. 

Just back from coffee.  I took my GPS system with me this morning and am loaning it to the man I pick up each morning.  They are going to get one and I thought it would be helpful to him to see how it works in advance.  I don't expect to be needing it for a few days.  I did use it twice in the last few days but sometimes it sits on the shelf for several weeks at a time.  It is nice to have when needed as it is so easy to get turned around and lost down here.

It is going to be pretty hot today and after I go to a meeting this morning I plan to stay in for the rest of the day.  We apparently have a good chance of some rain later this afternoon.  Sure hope we get some as it is suppose to really get hot the next few days.

Janet, welcome back and I hope you were able to get rested up last night.

Etta Sue, hope your voice is fine today but expect you will have to strengthen it with some talking the next few days. 

Liz, it is a shock when there is a fire in the neighborhood.  We are having a lot of homes hit by lightening down this way in these pop-up storms we have this time of the year.

Ruth, it sounds like your roads are like ours and you never know when you start out if you will be able to get through.  I have been fortunate and haven't been stopped anytime in recent memory.

Marilyn, if you feel your patient is being mistreated by the weekend worker perhaps you should convey your observations to the appropriate authorities or her son.  I can't say I was thrilled with your menu for us, except for the blackberry jam.  However, sure it all is probably good.

Nita, I also looked at your blog.  I just can't bring myself to create one for myself.  Maybe someday.

Hi Ruth Ann, Karma and Al.

C'mon, everybody, up and at 'em!  It's morning.  Yes it is.

It's clear & sunny here on the P. coast.  I checked the NOAA websites for Atlanta and for Indianapolis this morning, and there are T storms in the Indianapolis area, with a 90% chance of rain there.  Hope that means some for Etta Sue's area too.  T storms for Atlanta, too, & the chance is 70% there today & tomorrow.  They're not always perfect, but pretty good nevertheless.  So I pray our Father to water and refresh His earth.

It's raining.  A nice gentle rain.  A soaking rain.  Just hope it is enough.  I heard on the radio that for the months of May and June this year we have received half of the average rainfall.  That's not good. 

I am talking.  I made two telephone calls.  One to the surgery center to find out what the name of the anesthetic was that was used.  Wouldn't you know, I had to leave a message and she is suppose to call me back.  Second call was to my retirement benefit office to see if they have a better drug plan for me when Medicare kicks in.  No!!  But I did get it fixed to have AT&T to help reimburse me for Medicare Part B cost. I should have more money in my retirement check Sept 1.  So it wasn't all in vain.  But now I have to find a supplement drug plan for 2008.

Today is Euchre.  Usually it is at 3pm but today it is at noon.  We are having a meal and then play Euchre.  I am already to go. 

Need to call Kitty.  Today is their 42nd anniversary.  They are in Ohio at their daughter's home.

Good Morning, I am ready for work and waiting until 8:30 to call MediCal to tell them I have changed my insurance. Etta Sue reading your post reminded me that I had to do that.

I am taking Ruth to the dentist today to get her partials tightened.

Larry and all who are living where the weather is HOT I am so thankful that I now live where I don't have to worry about HOT weather anymore. I love being where I am now.

I need to mow again this week, I won't have time on Saturday as I am going to a Women's ministry BBQ at a friends house.  I don't think there will be very many of us there, maybe 5-6, people are on vacation and  our congregation is going through a pruning at this time and our membership is about ½ of what it was a year ago.

TTYL

Today we are to get rain with a possibility of high wind the radio suggested that we bolt things down it has not happened but perhaps we will learn for the next time.

I was out this morning and on my way home there was a little rain but it is very warm.   

7 more days and I am on vacation for a couple of months my that is a good feeling.  The strawberries are ready so I had best check my stock in the freezer and get more before it will be too late I usually make some freezer jam 

I had several marigold plants started and last evening I took the time to get them planted.  Now it is keeping the gardens watered and watch the plants mature.

Well we had rain today and it is clouding over again.  This is good, we were in the garden on the weekend and the earth was all cracking it was so dry.

Pat, while she was here went for a walk in the bush, and came back excited that she had found blackberry plants.  Blackberries are my favourite fruit and jam, raspberries run a close second.  Looks like we will have our own fruit for jam and freezing this year.

Kassie brought in a large caterpillar yesterday.  It is black with brown around the back legs.  She was wanting to see what it comes out to be, a moth or butterfly, well, it has already begun to spin its cocoon.  I will keep you all updated.  I still only have a 35mm camera, and will have to get film to get some pictures.

There was an accident on the 400 (an interstate) at Barrie yesterday.  Three cars were racing and one cut off a transport truck.  In typical fashion the trucker swerved to avoid the car and ditched the truck.  The trucker died.  This is so terrible that this happened, and on the radio yesterday the reporters were intimating that it was the truckers fault.  I wish reporters wouldn't assume like that.

Tonight is our last Women's Ministry meeting. I have to make a 10 lb bag of potatoe salad as well as a pan of squares.  So I had better get going and start working on this.

God bless all of you.  Remember I am praying for each need here.
Love JudyB

hello all
I am here... its been HOT around this area and today we have LOTS and LOTS of humidity.... not a day predicted to be under 90 degrees but the humidity is supposed to stay around for awhile... i don't like it anyways hope all is well i'm going to take a nap before work adios
Sarah

About the very serious accident that took place on the 400 hwy yesterday  no radio station in this area saying that it was the truckers fault, in fact they were reporting that the trucker swerved so as to prevent the mess from being much worse and that it was so sad that he had to loose his life leaving his family to grieve the loss.  Two of the cars responsible are being given many charges, carless being one of them.

Around 3.00 this afternoon we sure had a storm lots of rain, thunder and lightening putting the lights out in several areas.

Time to relax before getting dinner ready 

Hello Everyone!

Well, I had a lovely time up at Judy's and Ruthie and I sure enjoyed our ride up and back.  We got home very late as we spent some time in Port Sydney and Bracebridge and then on down to Orillia where we stopped in to visit a cousin and then on home.

When I got home here to Guelph (very, very late), the phone was ringing and it was my friend, Gail, who wanted me to see her mother.  I went over and we thought it might be a heart attack so off I drove to the hospital where I stayed till about 3:30 am and they decided to keep June in.  I got home and just seemed to get to sleep when the hospital rang to say that she was ready to go home.

We never did find out what all of her pain and breathlessness was but the heart was ruled out thankfully.

Today, I drove Judy McKenna to Hamilton to have a CT scan and then to see her surgeon and then home.

So, I've been a very busy person since leaving Judy's.



I agree Ruth.  I'm sorry, Judy that your media reported that way as right from the beginning here, it was reported that they had arrested two young men and a third was being looked for that caused the accident and the trucker was being hailed as a hero for taking to the ditch thus not making the accident much worse than it was.  It's sad.

I'm glad that they are being charged the way they are--not just with the accident but with vehicular homicide.


Let's all visit the blogs of our members when you get a chance.  There are some lovely photos in some of them and Kevin in Japan has some nice devotionals in his.

Thank you, dear Pat!  What a lovely birthday cake, and I'm sure it is the only one I will have.  And I won't gain weight from it, either!  Nice to be remembered.

My (local) friend Pat took me to lunch, and I got a nice card from my youngest daughter, Kerri.  Darrel says he is taking me to supper, so I haven't been forgotten by everyone, anyway.  Beth did say happy birthday to me as I was leaving her room a while ago.  And my eldest sister called to wish me a happy birthday, too.

I will try to recall some of last night's post.  We didn't have as much fun at the reunion as usual; I don't really know the reason.  It seemed like nobody wanted to do anything---Abby described it as "Like a senior center, only with babies running around."  Usually there are a lot of activities going on, but not this time.

We took Beth, and if it hadn't been for a niece and a friend who do home health/hospice care, I don't know how we could have made it.  I told them I think they deserve spots closer to the throne for doing the work they do.  Beth is in worse shape than I knew, and we had some really bad messes.  The girls cheerfully took care of her---God bless them.  Marilyn, it gave me new respect for you and your line of work as well.

My niece told us the following story at our church service.  She said she was taking care of a hospice patient in a care home.  The lady is unable to do anything, only follows people with her eyes sometimes.  JoAnne said caregivers do not do the work for recognition or appreciation, but still, everyone looks for those things, it is only natural.  She was pondering this and thinking that what she was doing for the lady didn't really matter, that she didn't even know she was there, etc.  God spoke to her and said that it is the same with Him.  He gives us so many blessings every day, every moment of our lives, and all He wants in return is for us to acknowledge His presence, say a little word of thanks, just NOTICE.

I think her words convicted every one of us.

Darrel had a battle with the computers again today, but I think he finally won, and has his back online now.  Larry, thank you for the suggestion; Darrel did push the reset button, but I guess the router was fried.  I hope this one lasts longer.

Karma, Nita and Ruth Ann-----I didn't get anything done on Monday this week, just too tired.  Hope you did better!  I got up early this morning and got some things done, even though I am still tired.

So sad about the terrible accident.  So often the ones killed are not the ones who caused the accident.  Those guys SHOULD be prosecuted!  What a selfish, childish thing to do.

God bless each of you.  See you later.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY JANET!

Thank you Janet. I appreciate the recognition. Ruth's family is so nice to me. Today they told me to fire the weekend caregiver and get someone else. But I am giving her one more chance to follow my instructions, then I will look for someone else. She doesn't realize that I am the one who will write her reference or not write one for her. She was hired on my recommendation and that was a mistake.

It is almost time for me to go back to work. I took her to the dentist and had to get her up a and back down a flight of steps twice at  the dentist's office. She did real good on her own holding on to the banister with both hand and me guiding her. She won't have to do her leg exercises today that's for sure.  His office is in a Victorian house with a big wide staircase at the front. The basement is at ground level up to the first floor. So it was a chore for her.

Gotta go now

HAPPY BIRTHDAY JANET!

Not much time for posting and don't know how to do you a cake, so here is a little poem.  (Where is Colin's poem for you?)



Instead of counting candles,
Or tallying the years,
Contemplate your blessings,
As your birthday nears.

Consider special people
Who love you, and who care,
And others who've enriched your life
Just by being there.

Think about the memories
Passing years can never mar,
Experiences great and small
That have made you who you are.

Another year is a happy gift,
So cut your cake, and say,
"Instead of counting birthdays,
I count blessings every day!"

                   

God Bless,

Liz

URGENT PRAYER NEEDED FOR SIX MONTH OLD BABY

Please visit this topic and leave a post for Daddy and Mummy who will definitly be reading.

Surgery is tomorrow in England.

Liz, that's a really nice poem!  And Janet - birthdays mark the day of entrance into this world.  We're thankful you cames!  May you celebrate His care for another year.  Amen.

I don't have to worry about giving the weekend caregiver another chance, I called the son and he is going to fire her himself. I have emailed him the list of available caregivers and his is going to start calling them for interviews.  Thank you Jesus. What a relief for me and and answer to prayer.

Hi, friends,

Marilyn, don't be too hard on yourself. Sometimes people just aren't what they seem. I know from experience along that line.

Janet, I truly hope this has been a blessed day for you.

And, I'll be in prayer each time I awaken during the night for little Rebecka.

Ruth Ann

Howdy all.

It's been so lovely here all day.  I haven't been inside much either.

I'm praying for the little baby, Rebecka.  Those dear parents.      Nita

Hi everyone. 

Today is Bible study with the pastor and then I have the rest of the day off as we don't have choir anymore until after the 1st of August.

We only got a brief shower yesterday afternoon.  They are now saying we would have to have severe rain to restore the moisture to the soil and the drought will likely continue into 2008.  We have received only about half of the normal rain fall.

Sure will be thinking of and praying for the little girl and her family as they face the surgery.  I can't even imagine what that will be like for the parents.  We lost a young grandson at 8 months and know how devastating that experience can be to a family.  Sure hope they don't have to walk that path.

Janet, sorry to read that Beth isn't doing well.  You were fortunate to have some caregivers in attendance who could help you.

Pat, once again it sounds like you have been on a treadmill but doing good works to help others. 

Marilyn, glad the caregiver situation is resolving and you don't have to be the one to fire the lady.

Well it is time to leave for coffee.  Hope everyone has a good day.

I posted a little prayer for Rebecka and her family - it is so very worrisome when infants are ill.  Sending blessings to all.

Don had a colonoscopy with great results this time and won't be back for five years.  As I drove back from Cheyenne, I thought of how wonderful it is to be able to drive in big sky country and watch the antelope, deer and buffalo at play.  I always miss my home in the Pacific Northwest but my life has brought me to this area and this is where our children settled - thankful for the great sky view, sunshine and mostly happy people. 

All the caregivers - you are golden! 

Pat:  What a trip and fun visit for you and then the extra driving but it sounds like you recuperated from all the lack of sleep. 

Carol

Good morning!  I got up and went to the gym this morning, even though I am not feeling at all good.  My right arm has been hurting a lot, and Darrel has called and gotten me an appointment with the doctor for 10:30, so maybe we will find out what the problem may be.

Liz, I looked at your garden photos, and they are lovely!

Thank you all so much for the good birthday wishes.  I did get calls from all three of my daughters, two sisters, one former sister-in-law, one grandson, and several friends.  It is nice to be remembered. 

We had a big storm last night, with wind, rain, hail, lightning and tornadoes.  There was a big wall tornado just a half mile from our house, and my youngest daughter, North of Salina, said our place was shown on the news.   We didn't see the news, as our power was off.  There was a lot of "tree debris" on the streets in town.  On the radio this morning, they said lightning struck at least 8 times on the 7 acre plot where the radio station sits.  That's only a half mile from us!  Thank God for His protection!

I'd better get ready to go to the Dr. 

Well, hello friends!

I know, long time no hear.  I've been really struggling with my asthma since we got home from vacation.  Can't even walk from my bedroom to my bathroom without it flaring up even more.  I've been nebulizing several times a day and have been struggling with depression a bit as a result of the physical fatigue.  Little sleep and not enough oxygen really wears you down.  It's been a little better the past couple of days.  We had to banish our dog from the house.  This is my first spring/summer with a shedding dog.  Poor Reese, he just loves to be with his people.  We really have to make a concentrated effort to go out and be spend time with him now.  

I prayed for Rebecka each time I woke up during the night and at surgery time this morning.  God has really layed this little one on my heart and though I didn't read the e-mail about her until condition and surgery until last night, I've had plenty of opportunity to pray for her since then.  It always helps to focus on someone who has it worse than you.  Yeah, I could die from my asthma, but this little one's barely started her life and has so much to offer and give to the world.  

So, I'm contemplating getting my own website where people can order prints of my images.  Has anyone seen ordered prints from Smugmug.com before?  I don't know what the quality of their prints is, but their websites for pros look really great.  It seems to have everything I'm looking for.  My only concern is the quality.  I'll probably just have to order something to find out for myself.  I'm excited about the prospect and it would mean time for me than what I'm doing now with getting the prints made and matting and framing them myself.  That's time consuming and I really need to free up some more time if I'm going to do photography and homeschool a Jr. High and High schooler.  We are doing year round schooling this year, but we will take all of August off.  And next week is VBS, so we'll be doing that.  (provided I can breathe)

I think of you all often, even though I'm not stopping in regularly.  I post on my new blog every now and then.  That is where I try to post a little of the latest that is going on with me.  I believe the url is http://blogs.christiansunite.com/shutterbugmom.  If that doesn't work, there's a link on the CP blog. Click on shutterbugmom

Have a great day, you all and I hope everyone will continue to pray for Rebecka and her parents Mike and Angela and of course the precious brothers of Rebecka, as well, until we hear back from them how the surgery went.

Newbies-hello and welcome!  I think I'm quite a bit behind on all the introductions, but I hope you enjoy the fellowship and awesome pictures here at CP.  

Thank you Al for the good devotional.    I really appreciate it. 

I am continuing to pray for little Rebecka that God will do a miracle. 

Pat & I had a great time up at Judy & John's place.    We took lots of amazing pictures.  (Well Pat took some amazing pictures!)    Hope you will all get to see them one day.   

Love Ruthie

This is one of those days that the more I hurry the behinder I get!! 

I did get a call from my anesthesiologist and she gave me the name of the muscle relaxant that she says is what caused my muscle pain.  Weird that a relaxant is the cause of pain but she said the one she used was not a quick recovery!  She used it because it was on my charts that it was hard to get the breathing tube down but she said that my airways are great...no need for a muscle relaxant.  So she flagged my file to NOT use it and she spelled out the name for me to tell them not to use that again. 

Now I think that Kaye Don, Ivalou and I are going to Ohio again tomorrow afternoon to see if we can finally watch Erik pitch in a baseball game!  More fun! 

I have to sweep the house today....either that or throw out grass seed and mow another day!!

good evening all!

I'm exhausted.  I couldn't go to sleep last night until around 3; don't know why.  Then, I had to work all day.  ugh.

Two of Bernard's cousins (one on each side of the family) have each been diagnosed with ugly forms of cancer in the past week (one ovarian, one breast).  One is around my age, and the other is in her early 30s.  The older is a Christian, but the younger one, and the one worse off, is quite possibly not.    Please remember them in your prayers or say a prayer for them, please.

About time to put the young'uns to  bed.  Laters

Hi, friends,

I needed a bit of simmer-down time this afternoon. Something about my medical insurance has gotten all messed up, and I couldn't get either my diabetes medication (and I only have 1 more pill for tomorrow) and am one b/g strip away from not being able to take my blood sugars, either.

So, this afternoon was very frustrating. Fortunately, someone will work with me tomorrow morning to do that daily report that is always a priority. And, we aren't schedule to do it until 9 am, so I'll have the first hour to concentrate on getting this benefits problem straightened out.



Y'all have a good evening.

Ruth Ann

Hi everyone. 

Nothing new here.  I was hoping there would be some word from the little girl's surgery but know that will happen in time and us knowing isn't that important considering the seriousness of the situation.

Pat and I did go out to Chili's for dinner last evening.  She announced early in the afternoon that we were going out as she didn't want to cook.  Today she goes for a physical and is taking her new sewing machine in for some type of adjustment.

I plan on staying home most of the day.  Things have really slacked off for the summer with many fewer meetings and other commitments.

Ruth Ann, sure hope you get your health insurance situation cleared up this morning.  Know these things are troublesome.

Karmat, sorry to hear of the cancer problems in your family.  It just seems there are more and more cases of it.  Fortunately it is not a death sentence anymore but the treatments are not pleasant.

Etta Sue, hope you got your sweeping done.  If you planted more grass seeds (I am assuming you met in your house if you didn't sweep) you would just have more mowing to do.    Hope you get to see Erik pitch this weekend.

Ruthie, glad you and Pat were able to make that trip.  Good to see you posting.

Kathleen, also good to see your postings.  Sorry you haven't been feeling well.  I have never heard of that website you mention.  However, I have ordered printes from Snapfish a few times and the quality is great.  No way I am going to print out my own prints as can't do them for the cost of the prints.

Janet, I wonder if you hurt your shoulder this past week in lifting Beth.  You are going to have to consider yourself in situations like this.  There is nothing to be gained if you get down.  Sure glad you didn't get blow away in the tornados or have a lightening strike.  The midwest is certainly getting a lot of nasty storms.

Carol, good news for Don on his test.  Your driving description was just like going on a quick trip as could visualize the scene you were describing.

Hope this is a great day for you all.  I plan on enjoying the hours God has given me today.

Did anyone else spot the space station and the shuttle whizzing overhead last night?  We did= we went out to the middle of the golf course & I was in my robe but no one else came out.  It is more than amazing to realize that astronauts are there and 2nd. that they are speeding by.  What a gift from God that they are even in space!!!!! 

I forgot to take a sleeping pill last night -  I just took one at 5 A.M.  This may mess up my mind all day if I don't get enough sleep. 

We met friends for dinner last night and had a nice conversation. 

Janet:  Belated Birthday wishes.  Did you have a nice day? 

Larry:  You know what I mean by driving in open space - Janet knows as well.  Such a free and thankful feeling.  Still, it isn't totally open out there nowadays. 

Carol

I think we are going to a ballgame again this afternoon.  I haven't heard from anyone for sure but it doesn't look like rain and that was the main factor.  So I have to be ready in an hour and have eaten also. 

I was taking a nap yesterday when the phone rang and it was my SIL inviting Ivalou and I for dinner.  So I rushed around and swept my floor!  Looks so nice now.

Waiting for news of little Rebecka.  She is so precious. 

I can't believe that the last time I mowed my lawn was June 5th!!

NEWS OF REBECKA!!!

Great news about Rebecka!!    She still needs our prayers though.   Pray that God will restore her to complete health and strength.   Praise God!

We have great weather here in Canada.   Hot but with a lovely breeze.

God bless you everyone!

Love Ruthie

I have mowed my yards and am now watering some before I go back to work. Nice weather here today 62° right now. I didn't take the dogs for their walks but maybe I will this evening, don't know yet if I will for sure. Not much else is new around here today.

Please pray for Linda Blair she is the daughter of a friend. She has cancer of the liver and it is in her bones as well. She started out with  brain cancer same months ago Has a couple of surgeries, now Hospice has been called in and she is in a great deal of pain not much time left for her. She knows the Lord her husband is a pastor.

Very thankful news about Rebecka.  Love to her parents!

Marilyn:  One of my friends here was to have a tumor removed from her kidney this week but may have early stage of pnuemonia so surgery is delayed.  This dear gal has gone through a war of health problems for years.  Sorry about your friend as well.

Shutterbugmom.  Keep coming in and letting us know your status.  Sometimes I don't reply but that doesn't mean that I am not concerned or have forgotten you. 

Judy McKenna:  Hello & welcome back to this world once more!  It is just great to see your little shout.  Come in here and yell - 

Carol

I posted a couple of photos  in the landscape folder. If y-all want to look at them.

Before I get sidetracked again, I want to say to Liz---thank you for the poem for my birthday!  (((hugs)))

This was quite the day for me.  We got up, went out and started mowing.  The grass was wet, but we wanted to work before it got too beastly hot.  Both of us were using riding mowers, the first thing that happened was I had a flat on mine.  Darrel fixed it, I continued mowing, and his mower broke down.  It was more complicated, he had to take the whole deck off to fix it, but he got it going again.  (In between, we came in and ate some breakfast.)

I wanted to go to Liberal with Diane and Mark---Mark was seeing h is doctor and getting his bandages off today, so had to stop mowing, clean up and go.  They had a lot to do besides the doctor, and I just now got back home.    Whew.  I'm going to bed soon.

Larry, the problem isn't in my shoulder, it's my arm.  I developed carpal tunnel syndrome 10 years ago when we built this house, doing all the taping, sanding and painting of the drywall.  It flares up every so often, and this time is causing pain from fingertips to past the elbow.  I will be seeing Mark's doctor on July 11.  I'm sure that working with Beth didn't help it, you're right there!

Great to hear the little one is doing better.

Thanks, Carol---yes, I had a nice birthday.

Well, here I am - trying to survive after literally a HOST of difficult situations to try to solve - put on hold until tomorrow - or work late to meet deadlines.

At any rate, 11 hours of frustration.

It's like walking in the green pastures beside a rippling brook to come here to read your praises, your daily activities, your praayers and thanksgivings, your worries and fears, and, of course, the beautiful pictures and poetry, not to mention those awesome devotionals.

May God richly bless each person here - either poster or reader.

Ruth Ann

Hi everyone.  What good news concerning the little girl and her family.  God was watching out for her.

It is suppose to be very hot here today with no chance of rain.  The air is very dry.

Not much new here.  Will shortly go to the senior center for the Friday men's coffee.  I am riding with my neighbor this morning.  I didn't get much done yesterday but managed to stay pretty busy doing some detail work.

My good friend and his wife returned from Virginia where they had attended the funeral of her uncle. I am always happy when I know they are home safely from the long drive.

Ruth Ann, hope today goes much more smoothly for you.  I detect from what you said that you weren't able to get the health insurance issues worked out.

Janet, you are fortunate that Darrel is able to fix the mowers.  My dad was always able to fix things but I didn't inherit those genes.  Sorry to hear of your carpal tunnel pain as I guess that doesn't cease on its own.

Carol, did you get the winds in your area that apparently hit the Denver area?  I just saw some pictures on the Today Show showing trees down on houses.

Marilyn, guess it is a good thing that I don't live in your area as I would freeze.  I am very sensitive to cold.  Sorry to read of the daughter of your friend being so ill.  It is hard to understand these things.

Etta Sue, did your team win yesterday?

Hi Ruthie and Pat and all those who join us today.

This is one of my favorite days of the month - quilting at the Methodist church in Loveland    I am bringing my yogurt and a few almonds for lunch & have lost one pound in this month - talk about slow.  Did the treadmill for a half hour &  now, cooling down. 

Larry:  If you didn't inherit the mechanical gene it is merely because you weren't taught by your parents.  Sometimes adults want things done so perfectly they fail to teach their children.  I have an aunt who didn't allow her children in the kitchen, for instance.  Talk about some awful meals at my cousin's home for years.  Out of dire necessity and living way out of city for years, I had to learn to clean out septic tank access and so many ugly things  but still know zip about electricity. 

Take care all, Carol

Larry:  Sorry for the delay here - we did get a little wind here.  Have not hear from the kids -

A wonderfully beautiful day  has appeared on the west coast. When I got back from Curves at 7AM there were 3 anonymous calls on my answering machine. She calls and hangs up  when I don't pick up the phone or just says "I'm waiting for you" They were all from Ruth.  Yesterday she called lifeline when the bather was 5 minutes late.  I have told her that the lifeline is for emergencies only. She  said to me that she realized that in this past week her mind  is not up to par. Please pray for Ruth.

Such good news about Rebecka. raise the lord, I have passed on the updates to my stationery group and to other's who were praying for her.

I was thinking about going to the fair today since the seniors get in free today, I wanted to check out  my photos to see if  they got any kind of a mention. However I have so many things to get done during my afternoon break. I need to shop for tomorrow's BBQ I am taking some bell peppers, red onion, and a pineapple, for the shish kabobs.

Hey Al wake Up!!

Good Morning:  We have a most beautiful day with sun and no humidity.   Before arriving home from work I met my dear hubby at a fresh produce stand and there I purchased 2 bushels of green peas and a flat of fresh strawberries, my next couple or perhaps 3 days will be busy doing what needs to be done. 

Also I will be making a strawberry shortcake for dinner this evening. Do I hear company coming? 

Ruth

Good morning...it's almost afternoon here!! 

What wonderful news about little Rebecka!  Praise God in all His glory!

I just can't seem to get my git up and go back.  I turned off the light around midnight and got up at 9am.  I ate some breakfast and read my devotions and promptly went back to sleep in the recliner.  The phone rang and woke me up or I would still be asleep! 

We didn't go to Ohio yesterday.  Ivalou called Erik and Erik pitched night before last.  I think we need a hot line to the coach since he is the one to decide who pitches.     So Ivalou and I went to Noblesville.  I got a new cell phone...my old one wouldn't stay charged...this one is a camera phone...only one that was shown to me wasn't a camera phone.  We ate at a steak house and then to WalMart.  We came home and I got my book and went to the spare bedroom.  I think I slept four hours!!  It was 7pm when I woke up! 

Around 5am, I heard rain outside!  Lightening, thunder, rain!!  Much needed rain.  I just noticed that the sod farmer is cutting sod...he hasn't done that for over a week, it has been so dry.  And he even syphons water from the creek behind his house to water the sod. 

Today it is cloudy and looks like rain any minute.  Hopefully I will stay awake long enough to learn my new phone. 

What IS it with some of us?  I got up tired again this morning, and will try to take a little nap after I finish here.  Like Etta Sue, I think my get-up-and-go has got-up-and-went!    I usually feel so good, so am not used to this.

Ruth Ann, sorry your life has been difficult lately, and hope everything turns around and that you have a great day today.  (((hugs)))

I got prints of all the photos I took at reunion, so have plenty of scrapbooking to do, whenever I get to it.

See you later, I'm off to try and take a little nap.

I guess you all heard that Ruth Graham (Billy's wife) died.   She has suffered for a long time, now she is free!     Praise God!

Hope everyone is having a wonderful day.

Love Ruthie

Well, Larry, you'll be thankful to know that after 3 (THREE) hours with the insurance company today, I finally spoke with an executive who overrode the flawed computer system so I could get the blood pressure medication I've been out of since June 14th.

About 1.5 hours into this marathon, I finally put my cards on the table. Diabetes affects blood pressure. High blood pressure can cause a diabetic to have ruined kidneys resulting in kidney transplant or death.

Someone began to listen. Then I specifically said that they could okay the $30 blood pressure medication or plan to deal with litigation. Without anger, I repeatedly, respectfully, but firmly asked to speak with each division's chief executive in order to get the matter resolved.

The pharmacy had the prescription ready for pickup after work.

I've always been a real wall flower and quite timid until this finally pushed ALL my buttons.

Possibly the experiences with me will assist others who are seeking better prescription care under their plans.

At any rate, thank you for listening. I don't have a feeling of victory or triumph, just a sense of satisfaction to know I'll be in better shape in a few days.

Y'all have a good evening.

Ruth Ann

Ruth Ann what an ordeal you have had withthat insurance company. I am so glad you finally got it all settled.

Do y-all look at the photos anymore?

Marilyn

Well, it's supposed to be patchy fog today, but the sun is shining out of an entirely blue sky. Nothing new in such fidelity to forecasts!

I have a young friend, brother in the Lord.  He's about 15, and a truly delightful young fellow.  He just had braces placed on his teeth - a real trial for him.  I had them when I was his age also, so I was able to talk to him about it as one who knows what he's going through.  I mentioned to him that our mouths, teeth, etc. (everything) belong to our Lord, so he's serving the Lord by having those braces and by living and growing under the trial of having them.  Praise God - he saw it and thanked me for mentioning it.  Oh may we all see that every aspect of our being - body, mind, and spirit - are all the property of our Lord.

Hi everyone.  There must have been a tiredness thing going on yesterday as I had one of those days when I couldn't keep my eyes open and felt so weary.  I took an hour nap in the morning, got up and ate lunch and laid back down and slept for another two hours plus.  Then I went to bed about 7:45 pm and went to sleep immediately and slept all night.  Happy to say I feel great today so guess I needed the rest.

We had a 95 degree day yesterday and suppose to have the same today.  We have a meeting to attend this morning but will probably stay in the rest of the day.

Marilyn, it sounds like Ruth is reaching the point where she shouldn't be left alone.  I know this is a worry to you.

Ruth Ann, glad you were able to get the medication problem worked out.  Good thing you were willing to stick to your guns.  What could the insurance company have been thinking to disallow diabetes medicine as this is a must for the remainder of a person's life. 

Ruthie, I just watched a lovely tribute to Ruth Graham that some of you may enjoy.  Here is the link:  http://www.bgea.org/RBG_TimeToAdore.asp  

Janet, hope you were able to get some good rest last night and are feeling better today.  You must have lots of scrapbooks put together.

Etta Sue, glad you got some needed rain.  It is amazing what God's watering will do to the vegetation.  Sorry about your not being able to see Erik pitch.  

Ruth, there is nothing much better than fresh produce.  I just bought some freshly picked cucumbers and yellow squash within the hour from one of my friends who has the large gardens and sells produce every year.  He expects to have tomatos within two weeks.  He also has 110 watermelon vines so am looking forward to some good homegrown watermelon later on.

Carol, you have it pegged correctly as to why I probably have no skill or desire to learn to do mechanical things.  My father was good at doing all of these things and when I tried he would immediately become frustrated and take over.  He had no patience at all and I always failed.  I think this had a lot to do with my wanting to get off the farm as quickly as possible.  It is no fun to always be defective in what you try to do as a child.  

Al, it was very nice of you to counsel the young man.  We sometimes can think we are the only one who has ever had to endure something undesirable and it helps to know others realize what we are experiencing. 

I am looking forward to today.  It is a gift from God.

Marilyn ~ I know how frustrating it is to post photos and no one comment on them.  Sorry, I forgot to check them out yesterday.  Will try to find them as soon as I post this post! 

Dark and gloomy here today.  And only 67°!!  It looks like it rained last night...I don't know.  But everything looks greener outside.  And I can't mow today or tomorrow!! 

Tomorrow is the Home Tour for Lapel.  I will be at Kitty's all afternoon as one of her hostesses.  Tonight all the ones who are hosts and hostess may tour the homes so I am to be at Kitty's by 5:30pm. 

Hope I can stay awake tomorrow after getting up at 6:30, going to church and then hostessing in the afternoon.  Maybe I can take a nap during a sermon   

Good morning, I have been busy this morning doing the domestic chores that needed doing. At noon I am going over to  one of the ladies from church to help get the BBQ stuff going I have to stop by the store and get some baby red potatoes that she forgot and stop by Willa's house to pick up  her food.  I bought everything I needed yesterday. A nice fresh pineapple and all the colors of bell peppers and a red onion, these will go on the Shish Kabobs.

After the BBQ I am taking some over to  Ruth, as the weekend caregiver leaves at 12:30. Tomorow I am cooking corned beef and cabbage here at my house and taking it over to her for her supper. It is her most favorite dish. She bought all the fixin's and I even brought her pot home to cook it in.  That way I know and her son knows that she has had a full nutritious meal. He knows that I will be doing this as he will be out of town for the weekend.

I have been in our gallery looking at photos and commenting on some.
There are some terrific photos there, everyone should go look at them as well as the photos posted here in the photo section.

Be sure to check out the prayer section there is a note from Pinkie, she was here earlier.

edit:I added an enhanced photo to the thread  click on this sentence.  

Cloudy and cool today....like most days!  My Summer clothes are not getting much use   Wouldn't mind nearly so much if the constant temp. changes didn't cause so much bodily discomfort!

Thanks so very much for that link to Ruth Graham's site, Larry.  I have always greatly admired her and found it most moving.   I have saved it and intend to spend more time reading and am especially moved by her poetry.  Will look for one of her books, 'Collected Poems' next time at the Christian Book Store.

The kids had to go to the funeral of SIL's uncle yest. so cooked dinner for them.  Wendy is in so much pain all the time.  Stan was a nice man and lived to be 90.  He was a Christian and the kids thought the world of him and his late wife.

I read something on that Ruth Graham site that is sticking in my head:

Make the least of all that goes
and the most of all that comes!
                   

Pleasant Day/Evening and God Bless.

Liz

What a beautiful memorial for Ruth Grahmn. She was born the same year as my mother, who passed almost 12 years ago - it seems like yesterday. 

Thank you Larry for that link to Ruth Graham's tribute.   I watched it a couple of times.   She certainly was an outstanding women!  Because she was in love with Jesus and walked with God, all her children rose up and called her 'blessed'.   

God bless

Ruthie

Good Morning>: All is well here, and I pray all is well where you are.  The BBQ was very nice. There were about 10 of us who showed up, so it was an intimate gathering of women.  The Shish Kabobs were great. Pastor's wife made a wonderful Lemon Cake, Willa made baked beans, Kim brought a watermelon. We also had hot dogs and chips.

I have an unspoken prayer request for a friend who lives in another country. Please pray for that person and the family.

I can't believe the nerve of some people. The weekend caregiver actually asked Ruth for $$ yesterday. That is against the policies of the Caregiver Registry, is considered financial abuse.  Ruth told her to take $20 out of her purse. I forgot to check and see if that was all she took out. We are NEVER to ask the client for $$, unless it is our payday and we only remind them of that. GRRRRR. Ruth's son is the one who pays us not Ruth.

Whoa, Marilyn:  That so-called caregiver should be checked out and reported as well. 

Sipping  and the hot days of summer are already here.  If we want to go for a walk, it has to be early.  Tomorrow morning, we go with our grandson to Breckinridge in the mountains for two weeks of hockey camp.  The best thing is the time with visiting with our daughter on the way. 

Have a wonderful Sunday or good sleep wherever you are.  Carol

Hi everyone.  Slept in late today and am now ready for church.  Pat fixed me a good breakfast.  I usually take care of my breakfast the other days of the week as usually leave the house before she arises in the morning.

We have no plans for today other than going to church and probably eating out with the group and then coming home and staying in where it is cool.  It is suppose to get to 95 degrees again today.

Marilyn, that is a shame that the caregiver took advantage of Ruth by asking for money.  Glad your bar-b-que went well.

I also thought the Ruth Graham website was well done and certainly a nice tribute to a unique and lovely lady.  I thought the comments of Billy Graham a few weeks ago when the new museum (or whatever it is called) was dedicated that the only thing he saw wrong with it was it was way too much about Billy Graham was a telling remark.  He didn't want the glory, he wanted the spotlight on Christ.

LIz, nice of you to prepare the meal to help your daughter out.  It sounds like you are also experiencing pain a lot of the time.  I am sure your family appreciated your kindness.

Etta Sue, your friend must have quite a home to be featured on the Home Tour.  Hope you enjoy your duties as a hostess and it is nice of you to help out in that way.

Carol and Larry I have reported her to the Registry on Friday, this is a blatant violation of the rules. I left her a list of things to do yesterday and today. I was talking to Ruth on the phone at 9:20 yesterday morning, on my list is says she came in at 9am. and that she has always done what I listed. Not true! Well we will not have that stress to deal with  much longer. I don't know  if another will get hired before next weekend but i am going to  train the next one in person. The son  finally realizes that a split shift is necessary just like I have been trying to tell him.

It is very still and HOT here in our Kansas corner.  Darrel and I both worked all day yesterday, cleaning out the garage.  I told him the Bible says "there is a time to keep, and a time to throw away, and it's time for us to throw away!"  It is hard for those of us who were raised during hard times to learn to throw things away, but the clutter eventually just chokes the life from a home.  We still have so much more to do, but made a great start.  I'm anxious to tackle my closet soon.

The moving of the Holy Spirit was such in our church this morning that there was no need of a sermon.  I love times like that.

Tomorrow, I must take Beth to Garden for more MRIs.  I hope they do what the doctor ordered this time, not like last time, when they only did one fourth of it.  Pat is going with me, that will be so nice.  It's a hard job for me by myself.

I enjoyed the site in memory of Ruth Bell Graham.  Thanks, Larry.

I'm going to rest a bit, then get things lined up for tomorrow.  I am taking our old 8mm movies to have them put onto DVD's....if it isn't cost prohibitive.

Hi, friends,

Well, my son and I just returned from a very quick turnaround trip to Atlanta. The birthday celebration for the son who lives in Atlanta was nice - a neat little restaurant in a part of town being rehabbed - the food was excellent. I don't think I've ever TASTED red snapper as good as that was! Then, we all - even my son who is a vehement nonbeliever - went to a hilarious movie about a modern-day "Noah" - it was so clean and all of us enjoyed it. It was called EVAN ALMIGHTY.

I worried how the story line would get around the fact that there has only been ONE worldwide flood and the rainbow is God's promise to us that it will not ever happen again.

Well, it worked out beautifully, and the references kept reminding us of the Bible and God's love and care for us, even when it seems His will is impossible for us to live with. I loved the ending where the dove had a twig in its mouth, and while the credits were rolling (all of which our entire family sat through) the rainbow was displayed.

I loved seeing the girls interact with their "Uncle Leslie," and he really enjoyed it, too.

Thank God for sometimes tiny little answers to years and years of prayers.

And, again, although it seemed a tiny little answer to prayer, at breakfast this morning, after the family had held hands during the prayer of thanks offered by one of the girls, I could hear strongly his deep bass voice adding his "amen."

It makes my eyes fill with grateful tears to tell y'all of these two little miracles this weekend.

Much love to all.

Ruth Ann

I really have NO good excuse for not being more present in this discussion.     I come here often and just visit quietly with all y'all ... Just enjoying being still, I guess.

But, RUTH ANN, I just have to comment on all your posts -- short or not so short -- and let you know I so admire your ability to be excitedly grateful for "even the tiny little answers to prayer."  That is a gift, you know.  Thank you for sharing it.     I know your heart and it blesses mine to read your love in each word you write ... even while experiencing pain and frustration and weariness.  I love seeing your picture pop up whenever I breeze through here.

BTW Janet ... I really did have a great Birthday greeting for you the other day but my computer decided to act up and I finally just gave up trying to post it for you.  Sorry for not letting you know I was thinking of you and wishing you another year of happiness and celebration of your "birth day" (thanks Al for reminding us what we celebrate each year.)

Marilyn, I can't even imagine what a frustration it must be for you to have to deal with incompetent caregivers ... Your heart for your clients and dedication to excellence is, sadly, not shared by many.  I think there must be a special place in God's heart for you, and others like you.   

All the rest of y'all please don't be too upset with me for my lack of conversation.... It's just the way I am at times.  I do read everything y'all have to say and even look through the gallery most every day.  If anyone has a solution for this malady please let me know, okay?

Love to all y'all.    Jane

Jane, you brought tears.

Isn't it such a wonderful gift of love that Pat has this website!

Thank you, God.

Whew!  I tried to get on CP earlier and it kept being Timed Out.  Glad I finally made it. 

Last evening I went to Kitty's around 5:30.  The ones 'working' the Home Tour got to tour the homes.  There were only 5 homes but each home had its own unique decor and style.  One with wall murals.  One with lots of bird cagesand birds.  One with lots of western art.  One home was built with maybe 1,000 sq. ft. but two additions added that many more square feet easily.  And Kitty's house was the largest with 3,200 sq. ft. and a patio all across the back of the ranch house...another 3-4 rooms added with lots of fountains and outdoor furniture. 

Today I went to church, then ate lunch and stopped at Kitty's on the way home.  Another lady and I were in the basement telling people about different things in the basement.  Kitty has her craft room in the basement...she paints, sews, quilts, cuts mattes, you name it, she has tried it.  But the most outstanding feature is the ceiling wasn't finished...you could see the duct work and joices in the ceiling.  So a friend of hers and Kitty staple gunned quilts to the ceiling, wrapping the joices and duct work.  Probably 20 quilts.  Really unique.  In the basement is a bathroom, a video storage area under the stairs, a bar and family room with fireplace.  Also a chair lift to go up and down the stairs.  Kitty has an entryway that has a 9' x12' rug that looks like a postage stamp, a living room, dining room, kitchen, utility room (big), kitchenette with double doors to the patio in back, a den with fireplace, 3 bedrooms (one with double doors to the patio) 5 bathrooms (one with a bidet) and the basement under half of the upstairs floor with one of the baths.  Also a 3 car garage.  The home was built in 1978 by Bob's parents and is fully handicapped accessible.  After his parents passed away, it was decided Bob and Kitty would buy the house from his brother Jim.  Bob and Jim own an Insurance Company and a Reality Company.  Bob is semi-retired. 

I know Kitty is relieved that it is all over.  She said she isn't cleaning anything the rest of the summer...   And I don't blame her! 

After the tour Kitty went to Pizza King and had pizza and a coke. 

Whew!  That took so long to post, I will lock this weeks Thoughts and start the Thought for the Week for June 24.