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Morning Devotional...





He came trembling and fell down before Paul and Silas... and said, Sirs, what must I do to be saved? Acts 16:29-3O


In a world like ours, with conditions being what they are, what should a serious-minded man or woman do? First, accept the truth concerning yourself. You do not go to a doctor to seek consolation, but to find out what is wrong and what to do about it. Then seek the kingdom of God and His righteousness. Seek through Jesus Christ a right relationship to God and then insist upon maintaining a right relation to your fellow man. Set about reverently and honestly to amend your doings. Magnify God, mortify the flesh, simplify your life. Take up your cross and learn of Jesus Christ to die to this world that He may raise you up in due time. If you will do these things in faith and love, you will know peace; the peace of God that passes all understanding. You will know joy; the joy of resurrection. You will know, too, the comfort of the indwelling Spirit of God, for you have sought to do the will of God at any price!


You do not go to a doctor to seek consolation, but to find out what is wrong and what to do about it.



Lord, I come to you as the Great Physician. I come to you not for consolation but for a cure. I will do as you prescribe.

From Devotions By Dr. Tozer

A 'J' night!  I couldn't shut off my mind thinking about the crochet class and the mittens I just finished.  They are wrong but I think I can make them look right with only taking out 4 stitches and re-doing them.  This afternoon maybe.

I am all ready for church.  Ivalou and I are greeters today.  She probably won't stay for Sunday School...her daughter, SIL and two grands are here from Ohio.  So that means we won't have lunch together either. 

Off to the little white church in the country!

Thank you, Don, for this morning's devotional.  Dr. Tozer's advice is always important to follow, but in our human weakness it's not always easy.  We can't accomplish it on our own - only by leaning on the arms of our Heavenly Father.

Etta Sue you sure do crochet fast. I can't do that anymore, I can only crochet until my hands begin to  hurt  a little bit, because If I continue it gets worse. I do have some Voltaren pan Gel to rub on but I always forget that I have it.

Thank you Don for the message from Tozer today.

Not much going on here so far today.

Thank you Don.  Have been praying for you.

Happy Thanksgiving Canada!

Canada's Thanksgiving already??  Wow, that means ours cannot be far behind!  Happy Thanksgiving to all our Canadian friends.

I am going to Hugoton to church tonight, will be leaving soon.  This afternoon I got all my clothes--well, not ALL, but the hanging ones, back in my closet; also put away a lot of things in the bathroom.  Someday, this project will be finished!

Happy Sunday, everybody!    :)   :thumbsup: :thumbsup:

Hi everyone.  Just up from a nice nap.  This morning we went to Atlanta to attend church with our daughter at her church.  Today was a special day as they were having dedication Sunday of their newly remodeled sanctuary.  This was the first time their brand new bell choir was playing and she is a member of it.  Someone recently gave the church a brand new set of handbells and the handbell choir played very well after only two or three practices.  Then they had reassembled a part of a previous choir and the old choir director conducted them in a magnificient piece.  There was a good sermon and it was just a lovely service of celebration, praise and worship.  Following the morning service they had a wonderful pot luck luncheon and the room was packed.  We were ready to head home after the meal and didn't stay for the 2:30 special service.  The bell choir was playing again so our daughter had to stay for that although she had been there since before 9 am (for a bell practice).  She was exhausted by lunch time so can imagine how she will feel this evening as has over an hours ride to get home from the church.  However, it was a very happy day for her and we enjoyed being with her.

Janet, it sounds like you are making progress.  I am like you in not having any back problems.  We are very fortunate.

For all of our friends in Canada, Happy Thanksgiving. 

Don, thanks for the devotional thought for us to ponder this week.

Ruth Ann, we noticed today on our drive to Atlanta how beautiful the trees are turning with all different colors in the leaves.  We really haven't had any really cold evenings yet or hints of frost.  Hope you SIL didn't talk too long last evening considering how late it was.

Etta Sue, thanks for explaining about your furnace situation.  It makes sense now.  You were very fortunate that you didn't lose your home in a fire from that furnace.  I expect there is going to be a terrible problem in many of these vacant home with things like your furnace problems and with mold from hot and humid summers and moisture from the lack of heating or air conditioning being operated for long periods of time. 

We surely did not plan to be stuck on the western slope but that is what happened when Vail Pass was shut with a sudden snowstorm.  So, we stayed on the other side of the hill and went for a lovely drive through the picturesque Colorado monument - a smaller but fantastic place much like Bryce Canyon.  We had gone through the Grand Mesa and the leaves were wonderful - returning today, the leaves are off the trees from the snowstorm.  Amazing, and another reminder that we are not in control of all our plans. 

Janet:  Winona is the name of a town in Minnesota.  Your friend probably already knows that little fact.  Sorry you are dealing with sloppy workmanship. 

Al:  Praying for your back pain to ease and you find the right way to lessen that pain. 

Etta Sue:  That is some story about your fumes in the house.  We know - Don carried all of us outside in Minnesota and threw us in the snow to revive us better.  It was a close call.  Now we buy carbon monoxide alarms for everyone and even for wedding gifts. 

Don:  So appreciate your note to remind us of our Great Physician!  Thank you. 

Home & unpacked - thankful for a safe trip and a warning to not drive into a motorist's nightmare. 

Hi everyone.  It is cloudy and a bit cooler here this morning with the possibility of a little rain.  After coffee this morning a couple of the guys and I went walking at the gym.  I have my men's luncheon and then a meeting to attend this evening and that is it for me today.  The housekeepers are here and the lawn people should be here later in the day. 

Carol, glad you are safely home but sounds like you had a lovely visit to the mountains. 

I am waiting for the carpenters to arrive, Darrel has gone to the dentist.  I just called and the guys said they are just ready to start out here.

Church last night was wonderful!  Dr. Gary Wood was killed in a horrific car accident years ago, his face cut to shreds, nose cut off, vocal chords severed, larynx crushed, I don't remember all his injuries, but God healed him.  Doctors said he would never be able to speak or sing again, but God.......aren't those wonderful words--BUT GOD??  Is anything too hard for God?  I did go talk to him, asking prayer for Beth.  He agreed with me in prayer and gave me a little prayer cloth for her.  I also bought his book entitled Miracles.  In the night when I couldn't sleep, I read about half of it; will take it in and read to Beth.  Her faith is strong, but we always need to increase our faith.  God is good, and it is always His desire for His people to be healed.

Must get off here.  I need to go do some errands as soon as the guys get here and I talk to them a bit.

Blessings to you all!

Carol, I remember the first time we were going to Colorado Monument.  I thought it would be a statue in the middle of nowhere!!  Was I surprised!!  A very picturesque area of acres and acres.  And the view of the city nearby is awesome!  Love Colorado Monument. 

It sounds like everyone had a great weekend and especially a great Sunday worshiping our Lord. 

I fixed my one mitten and I like it now.  Since this time last week, I have crocheted a neck warmer, a scarf, a hat, and a pair of mittens.  And I am about halfway done with another scarf.  I got my practice yarn ready to take Wednesday evening.  Also all my crochet hooks to show...steel, aluminum, wood and plastic.  And different sizes of thread to yarn.  I even found my old knitting needle (big and fat) that I used to make Jiffy crochet. It was also called Broomstick crochet.  Also found my Hairpin loom.  I remember I made my Mom a three shades of green and white afghan with the hairpin loom.  But I didn't find any patterns for it.  But then I didn't look for a hairpin pattern.

Today or tomorrow I want to start printing my little instruction booklet...4 pages, front and back.  One of the women at church brought me some pink paper.  Today I remembered that I once saw on Dateline or such program that some prisons paint their interrogation rooms pink...for the calming effect.  Learning to crochet needs that calming!!!

I need to call Kitty and find out what time I should be at her house this evening for Photo Guild.

Etta Sue, I'm sure you'll do great teaching crochet.  One hint I heard a long time ago - to teach someone who is left handed (if you're right handed), sit facing them and have them copy your movements. 

My daughter and grandchildren are on the road, heading back to North Carolina.  It was a wonderful six weeks while they were in this area and I'll sure miss them. 

Thanks, Pat.  Even though I'm in the US and ours isn't for another month, thank you for the greetings!   :lol:  I hope you're having a wonderful time with our family.

Thank you, Pat, for the lovely greeting & card.

We had our thanksgiving dinner last night. My daughter & granddaughter did most of the preparation. It was simply fabulous!!

Fortunately I was given a dishwasher this summer, so clean up was not traumatic!!

Happy Thanksgiving, everyone!!

Hi everyone.  Thought I would stop in before retiring for the night and catch up on the postings.  I guess by now the Thanksgiving turkey/ ham or whatever and desserts have been eaten and hopefully thanks offered in Canada.  It is always a special time.

I had a nice laid back day with an enjoyable lunch with friends and a nice nap afterwards.  I just got home from a meeting so am in for the night.  It has been cloudy and rainy off and on all day but no significant amount of rain.

Janet, that must have been a very inspirational evening you had at your church.  God does have a plan for each of us and uses each of us in our own unique way.  Hope your workmen got a lot done today.

Etta Sue, it sounds like you are very organized for your upcoming class and I bet the ladies will enjoy learning under your guidance. 

Jeanne, I bet those six weeks seemed to fly by really quickly and now you can enjoy anticipating their return next summer.

Pat, I liked your Thanksgiving graphic and little poem.  Hope you were able to be with your family today to help celebrate. 

RuthV, my wife has always said food prepared by someone else always tastes better.  However, she isn't right because she is a very fine cook and seldom makes anything that isn't very good.  Glad you had a nice Thanksgiving meal with your family. 

Sorry I was "missing in in-action" yesterday.  I awakened feeling terrible and didn't even realize it was Sunday. So, was awakened the next time by a friend checking on me as to why I wasn't at church. Ooooops!

So, I dressed and met them for lunch, then felt so bad I thought I'd rest a bit after getting home - well, THAT rest lasted until 7:30 pm!

And, it was not at all difficult to return to sleep on time.

Today I worked for a former boss of mine (thankfully, I could use my home computer and e-mail the work to him) for about 3 hours. Now, I'm catching up on all I missed yesterday. :)

Most likely you Canadians are enjoying leftovers - that's always SO much fun to see how many different ways the foods can be reused. :)

Y'all have a great rest of the day.

Ruth Ann

Larry for a cook it always tastes better if someone else does the work!

Tuesday has arrived!!  What will we do with it?  Will something we say or do today make a difference in where someone spends eternity?

Today is Darrel's 74th birthday.  We went to the movie The Help last night to celebrate.  That's a really good movie; now I would like to read the book, as there was a lot of the dialogue that neither of us understood.

I went and read to Beth for a while yesterday, she always likes that.  It is so sad for someone who loved to read her whole life, not to be able to read any more.  Well, she can READ, but she cannot hold a book and turn the pages.  Can't hold or do anything....... :'(   But she still has a beautiful attitude, bless her heart.

The guys were SO sure the bathroom would be finished yesterday.....not.  Still a few more things to do.  I am wondering if we should postpone our European trip, as I don't think there is any way they can finish the whole house before Nov. 10.   :-\

I was really frustrated yesterday, as I got the CD with the pictures for my book ready to mail to the publisher; also have a bunch of papers concerning a little $1000 life insurance policy on Darrel's mom ready to send off so we can get that money......got to town and realized the Post Office was closed.  :ticked:  Those "fake" Monday holidays!  Bet every P.O. will be swamped today, and ours doesn't even open until 10! 

I am going to shower and get ready for my day!  TTYL!

All you dear brothers and sisters - please pray for me.  I get discouraged.  My problematic hip is just another in the continuing saga of ailments that I must overcome to continue living.  It would be far better to go and be with Christ, would it not!  But my Lord wants me to continue battling here.  I need grace to deal with each thing the Lord lays upon me - with uncomplaining trust in His wisdom and strength for each moment.
I know that I need to  focus only on the next step - the one right in front of me - not  all the ones beyond that.  I need to hear Him say, "Take only THIS steip, and trust Me for that alone at this moment.

Hi everyone.  We have a very wet and windy morning here in our area of Georgia but no complaints as we need the moisture.  Just back from coffee but have to get out again a little before eleven this morning.  Then will have the rest of the day at home.  Nothing much on the schedule for the afternoon or evening.

Ruth Ann, hope today finds you feeling much better and with a little more energy.  Nice you can still do some occasional work for your former boss. 

Janet, tell Darrel Happy Birthday for me.  It is sad that Beth is not able to handle reading on her own as she has so many hours to herself.  Is there a volunteer organization associated with the home where she lives?  If so have you ever discussed with them the service they could perform by having some volunteers sit and read to Beth and probably some of the others in the home.  It sounds like it was be a very helpful ministry.  Hope they finish up your bathroom today. 

Al, so sorry that you are experiencing so much pain from various ailments.  Obviously God knows you haven't finished your purpose in this life.  It is easy to understand becoming discouraged when you hurt all the time.  I have and will be praying that you find some relief from the pain.

I just said a prayer for you Al and will continue to pray for you. I hear people say that Christians should not be discouraged. That may be so but Christians are human and I understand how you feel. God Bless You!

Don, there is also one preacher with a regular TV show who insists if a Christian is sick it's because his/her faith is not strong enough.  According to him, Christians should never be sick!   :yikes: Needless to say, that's not one I ever watch.

Al, I continue praying for ease from your pain in accordance with the Lord's will, as well as that you receive the His comfort and peace. 

Al: Praying for you as you deal with pain and discouragement.  You have a wonderful, God given, attitude.

I'm asking the Lord to help me have such an attitude as I get older (I'm only 67) and have to deal with age onset ailments.
I look upon you as fulfilling Proverbs 3:13, 15-16 and knowing God is using you to continue teaching us at C.P.

Happy Birthday, Darrel!!

Janet: We have those government holidays too; everything is open except government run institutions.

Today was supposed to be Ladies' Bible Study except my husband woke up with dizziness; so much so that he couldn't walk. I'm staying home to monitor him...

My favorite animation above.  Watch it.  It will change. 

My 'good' printer is on the bottom shelf of my desktop computer desk.  I sat on my short step stool while printing my little book yesterday and was up and down many times.  When I got up this morning my thigh muscles are ouchy!  Then I read Al's post!   :( I am sorry, God, for even thinking my ouchy legs are a problem.

Pat, your Thanksgiving poem is on a meat platter at Cracker Barrel.  I saw it a week ago when we went to the musical at Anderson University.

Ruth V, I love Thanksgiving.  It isn't about the gifts.  It isn't about fireworks.  It's all about family and food and giving thanks for both!  What better combination?

Jeanne, I am sure you enjoyed your daughter and grands while they were close by.  Internet and the phone sure makes the world smaller.  You will keep in touch.  And years ago when I was a little kid, I heard that when a person is buried and it is a cloudy, rainy or snowy day, then that person will have a hard time finding and getting to heaven.  Bright and sunny day will be easy for them.  Now who would have told a child that?  I know different now but I tend to notice the weather when there is a burial of a friend or family member.  I don't believe but still remember.

Larry, I love my leisure days...especially the nap part in the afternoon.  Seems they don't come by very often though.

Ruth Ann, I haven't had one of your days like you had Sunday for a long, long time.  I thank God for that.  I used to say being sick is a waste of time.  I would push myself to keep going especially when I was working. 

JudyB, I totally agree.  Food always tastes better when you don't have to do the work.  Especially if you are cooking just for yourself.  That's why I eat out so much.  So hard to cook for just one person.  I 'dust' my countertop stove!

Janet.  Happy Belated Birthday to Darrel.  Ivalou walked out to mail a letter at the mailbox yesterday but I remembered and saved the steps.  Another trip?  My, you are world travelers! 

Don, Josh 1-9 says 'I command you to be brave and strong.  Do not be afraid or discouraged.  I am the Lord your God and I will be with you wherever you go.'  When I get discouraged or things get to me, I quote this verse....often.

Since I have everything ready for Crochet Angels for tomorrow night except finishing a scarf, I am relaxing today by hoping to mow my leaves!  I love the fall season.  I notice that over half of my Maple tree leaves in the front yard are on the ground!  We have a slight breeze today and it is raining leaves.  No!  That means the season following Fall isn't too far away! 

Al, I just happened to wander in here, and read your message.  My thoughts and prayers are with you.   I never told you how much I enjoy your mini sermons in the photo areas, when you celebrate God the Artist.   That opens my eyes a little wider to His creation, every time.

A while ago, I injured one of my knees, and I figured that it just wasn't going to get better.   And then it did.   If you put it all in His hands, and just focus on the next step, it does go better.

May you be up and running again soon.

Al I am praying for you as I type this.  the sun came our and then it left again. It has rained off and one, but at 6:45 when I let the dogs out it was really pouring and I had to go out to get them  so I got soaked.  I looked like something the cat drug in.

I sure thank y'all for praying for me.  And thanks be to God that He listens to our prayers so graciously!

Al:  Prayers for you and all of your concerns.  I need you to keep writing the Good Word messages.  Thanks for all of your messages.

Etta Sue:  Love the new giraffe - cute.  LOL on pink.  You will do just great - enjoy.  We also stopped on the road coming down from Grand Mesa and waited for a couple of cowboys herding the cattle down from the high country just ahead of the snowstorm.  Neat - I love to watch these things. 

Janet:  Where will you be going this time?  In Europe, I mean.  Can you give a key to a neighbor or trust someone so this can finish?  What a story your visiting pastor had for everyone - amazing grace.  Can Beth listen to an audio book? 

Ruth Ann:  Believe me, these days happen to a lot of people.  You really needed rest and it is lovely that you now have time to rest your weary. 

Happy belated Canadian Thanksgiving to all.  Save the carcass and I will make turkey soup for you. 

Pat and Judy:  Are you two knitting anything special?  It is chilly enough to knit again. 

Thanks for all the birthday wishes for Darrel.  I think he had a pretty good day.  We went to Garden to get his pills and got the knobs and pulls for the bathroom cabinets.  Boy, those things are expensive!   :o

I found some fabric at Walmart (they sure don't have much fabric anymore!)  I wanted to make a short valance for the bedroom window.  We got one of those nice double cell pleated blinds, but I felt it needed something at the top.  Found some fabric with the same colors as the couch in there, so  that was good!  I got it made and hung already, and we just got home at 5:00!   :thumbsup:  I went to my closet to get my house shoes, and felt a big pain in my foot, couldn't really see what it was, then saw something.  It was a three inch piece of copper wire, which I hit just right, with it being in the carpet.  It rammed into the sole of my foot behind the big toe, about a quarter of an inch or so deep.  I had to pull it out, then tried to get into the laundry room off the carpet, but left a trail of blood drops all the way.  By the time I got to the laundry room, it was really bleeding and dripping all over.  I called to Darrel and he came to my rescue, got me a chair to sit on and found the hydrogen peroxide.  I don't think there is much danger of infection, as much as it bled.  When we got it bandaged, then I took a clean cloth and peroxide and cleaned all the blood drops out of the new carpet.  Boy, that did hurt!  (The wire, not the cleaning!) I think I will take a couple Tylenol and go to bed.  It's time, anyway.

And...bathroom is still not totally done.  :-\  He ran into a wiring problem putting up another light.  But it's almost done!!  Tomorrow for sure, or I will tie a rope on him and not let him go home until it is finished!!  ;)

Al, sorry to hear you're still in pain, will continue to pray for you.  Ruth Ann, glad you are better.  Judy, how is the shoulder?

I am really weary, so  will say good night.  Good night!

I was working on a sweater for myself but at this point my arms aren't strong enough to knit any further.  Looking forward to finishing it.

Well, well! This has been an eventful day. Thank you all for your kind comments. All that sleeping must have been that my body knew I would have some pain and needed to rest beforehand.

The right ear is inflamed again. So, they suctioned vacuumed all the debris out of my ear. I don't know which was worse - the sound or the pain!

The doctor told me I have a chronically malfunctioning Eustachian tube - he said it was most likely deformed when I was in utero.

At any rate, I'll be warming up one of those microwave heating pads shortly to put against my neck. That seems to help.

So, "Heigh ho, heigh ho, it's off to bed I go" and most likely all those antibiotics will make it better soon.

Love to y'all,
Ruth Ann

The farmers are sure working while the weather is good.  They started combining Ivalou's soy beans last evening and this morning another farmer is combining a soy bean field across the road from me.  They will soon be singing 'Heigh Ho!  Heigh Ho!  Off to the bank, I go'!!

And I got my yard/leaves mowed yesterday.  I think the leaves on my two trees in the front yard are over two thirds on the ground.  The leaves on the other trees are still green and tightly attached to the limbs!

Has everyone seen the Harvest Moon?  I took photos of the moon Monday night.  A beautiful light in the sky!

Tonight's the night.  Crochet Angels first night.  I am calm.  I got my yellow scarf done yesterday.  I took a picture of it and then used it on WORD and typed my made-up pattern.  So simple.  The yarn is a little stiff after using soft yarn so I am taking a neck warmer of mine that is soft after washing a few times.  I got my big stapler by UPS yesterday so the pink books are all stapled.  I have 2 scarves, a hat, a pair of mittens and a neck warmer to display with patterns for them to choose which one they would like to make.  We can copy the patterns at church if there is someone there that knows how to use the printer or I can copy them here at home and take them back next week. 

Anyway, I am anxious to see projects finish by beginners as well as seasoned crocheters.

Hi everyone.  This was our usual Wednesday with Bible study at church a coffee time at Dunkin' Donuts and then having lunch with a few of our friends from the group.  Today is choir practice.  It has been overcast all day but it is mild and no rain today.  My wife spoke with our daughter this afternoon and she had fallen again in her bathroom and bloodied her nose.  She did go to the ER but they told her nothing had been broken.  She seems to be falling about once a week now.  Very worrisome.  The Scooter Store came yesterday and measured her for a new wheelchair, which she should have soon. 

Don, discouragement is one of the feeling that we are allowed as humans.  We don't have to dwell in it but it seems perfectly normal to on occasion be a bit discouraged about something. 

Jeanne, perhaps if we as human could have perfect faith the preacher might be right but unless I have missed something only Christ fits that mold.  I do think our state of mind has a big effect on our health but doesn't prevent us from disease. 

Etta Sue, I really wonder if I could function if I weren't able to rest most afternoons.  For some reason I haven't been able to shake this tiredness all this week.  Be relaxed at your class and your students will reflect your ease.

Janet, OUCH!!  Hope your foot is feeling better today. 

Ruth Ann, thanks for calling and then sending me the info we talked about. 

Etta Sue  when the yarn is too stiff like you say rinse it in Hair conditioner and it will soften right up. You can mix some with water in a spray bottle and spray  your things and it will do the same thing.

Greetings to all who visit here each day.  I am up late and caught up on reading your posts. 

My hubby is now enrolled in Hospice care this week.  I already had to call for a nurse to come this evening;   as his blood sugar was high enough that he needed insulin today.  Tonight I tried to check his glucose level again to see if he needed an injection....I could not get a reading at all.  The test strip (in fact 3 of them in a row) would not absorb the blood. I had just opened a brand new container of the test strips, so I hope that was just a fluke, and will work for me in the morning.  Thank goodness for help when you need it. 

Marilyn, thank you for the hint about softening stiff yarn.  I will have to save that one in my hints list.

Larry, you are right about not dwelling in our discouragement.  Some things we cannot prevent happening but we don't have to wallow in them.  I am sorry to hear that your daughter has fallen again.  I know that is a concern for you, since it sounds like it is getting more frequent.  Earl has fallen several times lately too.  But thank the Lord, he has not broken anything. 

Etta Sue, how did the crochet lessons go?  I have a feeling you are a good teacher and you are so good to help people.  This is one way to be "salt and light" by your volunteer endeavors.  I would have loved to have a teacher in crochet when I was younger.  No one in my family did crochet work so I never learned how until I was in my mid-twenties.  I met a young Air Force wife here who showed me some pieces that she had crocheted for gifts to her family back in SC.  She told me that she bought a beginner's booklet and taught herself how to crochet......bingo!  I thought if she can do that, then so can I.  And I did!  I have made quite a few gifts etc.  Not expert by any means, but I can do a fair job at easy patterns, such as baby blankets.  I still have trouble with the borders on those however.  They want to wave.  Any hints on that?

Janet, I know you will say Hallelujah when your house is finally finished and everything back in order.  It has been quite an ordeal for you and Darrel. 

Al, I hope you are feeling some better. Been praying for you.  Back pain can be such a downer, but I know you are trusting the Lord to bless, even in the pain. 

JudyB, I have prayed for you too, and hope you are doing well. 
Ruth Ann, glad the extra sleep was good for you.  I stay up late at night, as I can't sleep all night anyway.  I used to think a daytime nap was a waste of time, but not anymore. 

I just looked at the time...later than I thought.  Good night all, Jeanne, RuthV, Carol .  I don't mean to leave anyone out but I forget too easily. 

Janice, while you were posting that message I was lying wide awake, waiting for the Lord to send me the names of those who most needed prayer, until I could fall asleep.   :)

It's dark and dreary and chilly here - normal for mid-October.  We sure got spoiled the last couple of weeks.  The fall colors were late arriving, but two below freezing nights followed by sunny mild days and everything popped out literally overnight. 

Crochet Angels was great fun.  Not as many as I thought but, hey, it's Clarksville Christian Church.  A very small church.  There were seven that showed up.  I did over-kill on preparations but now I have plenty of booklets and yarn for newcomers.  Two gals had never held a crochet hook, so I could concentrate on them.  A couple of crocheters had questions that the answers helped them.  I asked them if they weren't comfortable to start a scarf or something to bring back swatches of three different stitches next week.  And count!  One gal that I was teaching was really having a time of it.  Of course, the chain and first row is the hardest of any project.  She just wasn't getting it.  Then I turned to the other gal and turned back to the first and she was doing great!  So again, show them what to do by doing it yourself.  Let them do it...then go away.  It makes anyone nervous for someone to watch over them.  A great success.  The goal is for us to make winter wear for the abused women in Noblesville.

Today is my Class Lunch.  I woke up way to late so I am kind of in a rush. 

My Daily Bread today made me think.  The title was 'Too Busy to Know God'.  The last line said 'If we are too busy to spend time with God, we're simply too busy.'

Hi everyone.  Not much to write about this morning.  It is still overcast but a bit warmer.  Some areas around Atlanta are expected to get heavy rains about rush hour this evening.  Whether that will include our area I have no idea.  Nothing scheduled for today.  Pat just left to get a haircut and she may want me to go to Aldi's with her in a little while if she feels like going.  The gout in her toe is beginning to act up again so she started the medicine for it this morning.  Last night we heard from our son that he will have surgery next week to remove a large kidney stone that is too large to pass on its own.  He will be out of work at least two weeks as he recovers. Obviously we will miss getting together when then on the Friday after his surgery so the plan to meet has been cancelled for now.  Glad to be able to say I woke up this morning not feeling tired so hopefully that spell of days in now past for awhile.  I am going to have to do a better job of not pushing myself too hard on any given day if it can be avoided.

Janice, sorry to hear of the need to bring in Hospice but they do wonderful work when it is needed.

Etta Sue, you were very wise to turn away and let the lady experiment until she got the stitch right.  You were there to help if needed but she wasn't going to learn unless she did it.  Sounds like your group has a very worthy goal for the winter and provides a definite purpose for your efforts. Certainly wisdom in your Daily Bread reading.

Etta Sue, if I were near your town, I'd certainly be there! My worst problem is turning from one row to the next. Oh, well, as y'all say, time will help (especially if I practice). ;) And I, too, really like that suggestion, Marilyn.

Carol, so sorry about hubby being placed on Hospice care. Please know I'll be praying for (and with) y'all as you go through these times.

Well, it's time to meet someone, so I'll see y'all later.

Love to all,
Ruth Ann

I feel as if I cooked a Thanksgiving dinner today!  We are to bring 2 sides and 2 desserts for the big Pigskin Palooza thing for the church tonight.  Well, it's not FOR the church, it's for the football team, cheerleaders and families, which includes a LOT of people.  The church bought two whole hogs plus a bunch of brisket for it, and we are filling out the rest.  I made over ten dozen Snickerdoodle cookies and a huge bowlful of cole slaw.

AND.....drum roll, please.....I got the first edits on my book!!  Now I have to go through  and make the suggested changes, etc, and have it back to them by October 31st.  She wants more dates, etc., and since I am not good at remembering those, I am going in to have Beth help me with it.  Need to go for our visit and read to her, anyway.  But have to be back to get Darrel and go for the dinner by 5:30.  So......bye for now.

Wow! The first edit back!  It's HAPPENING!  God grant you grace to get the additional work done.

Please everybody pray for me.  I don't know what's the matter, but my stomache has been really, really bad the last couple of days.  Stomache ache, nausea, etc., etc.  And it doesn't seem to want to go away.

I forgot to thank Marilyn for the conditioner hint!  Never thought of that.  Must be the fabric softener that softens when yarn items washed and dried at my house. 

Yeah!  We'll get to read a new book soon!  Good news, Janet!

'DOLPHIN TALE'.  There!  If you like animal shows, this is a must-see movie.  Loved it.  Also take Kleenex if you are a softie.  Just saying...

Then us four ladies went to a Mexican place to eat.  The waitresses kept stopping at our booth talking to us.  Makes us want to return and enjoy their company.  Also to see if they remember our names!!

Ivalou and I are going to swim maintenance today.  Her first maintenance.  But she called earlier and is seeing the land therapist at 11:30....Ivalou's arm is still hurting! 

Tonight I am taking Charlene and Tony out to eat since I forgot to send a card to her for her birthday that was Tuesday.  My excuse?  No mail Monday!!

Al, prayers continue - and are intensified. 

We had some thunder late yesterday and a couple of brief showers.  The lakes are going down and we have once again been asked to start conserving water as we are in a drought situation.  I had a a quiet day yesterday and other than coffee stayed home all day.  I think today will be more of the same except there is a man coming to measure and provide estimates to replace a couple of the windows where the seal has broken between the two pieces of glass.  Still haven't been able to get in touch with the roof man and have had to call for the refrigerator repair lady to come back out as on occasion when we dispense ice it makes a loud screeching noise which is very unpleasant. 

Janet, that must have been some spread if everyone brought two sides and two desserts.  It reminds me of the array of food at our daughter's church last Sunday at their luncheon meal.  They had several tables filled with food but by the time we picked up the dishes most things were empty.  Good news on your book.  I wouldn't worry too much about the exact dates of things since if you don't remember no one else is likely to do so.  Being in the ball park of the dates would likely be close enough.

Al, you sure didn't need the stomach problems on top of the other aches you are experiencing. 

Etta Sue, having a nice friendly waitress makes the dining so much more enjoyable.  I think I have mentioned the older lady who works the lobby at McDonald's.  She has learned the names of most of the regulars and speaks to each of us each day often inquiring about our families and sharing a bit from her life as well including that her husband was having gallbladder surgery today.  She also spoils us by refilling our drinks each morning or taking away our trays when we are finished. 

Larry - we've got a Starbucks locally that's like that.  Lots of laughter, etc. A heartfelt goodby when you leave.  I love a place like thazt!

Waiting to get an email from daughter so we can send a care package to our grandson & need his new address - forgot that he changed to a different dorm.   Sending another package to niece, going to the church with new white socks and eyewash to pack in the troops boxes.  They love white socks.  Also found at a the dollar store books of puzzles & word finder & Sudoku exercises.  That dollar store is a lifesaver - & they were collecting dollars for buying food for the local pantry.   

The USA now has a higher percentage of people who are having trouble putting food on their tables than ---CHINA. 

Ruth Ann:  It is Janice who has her husband now on Hospice care.  It sounds like a diabetes control problem.  Glad you got some sleep. 

Sending healing prayers to all.  I was fortunate to go to a coffee this morning and to meet a lady from Kashmir (India) plus another gal we know who has been a missionary in Madagascar.  The missionary & her husband are way short of money so they may not be able to go back ---- their lives are maybe about to change big time & I don't know what kind of a job he can get here.  She is working.  Sad

Tried to take a walk in the area here & it didn't work with so many chats.   

Carol, isn't it nice, though, to be able to stop and chat with people?  When I go walk, that never happens!  ;)  Living in the country may have something to do with that!

Larry, hope Stacey and Pat are doing better now, and of course YOU as well.  Yes, Larry, there was a LOT of food there, and lots left over, as well.  They had set up for 350 people, and most of the chairs were filled.  They had a former HS coach who was here about 30 years ago as speaker.  He was very motivational, telling the kids to cherish the values learned from their parents, tell their parents they love them, be honest, work hard, etc.  Good talk.  Today I took stuff in for the youth group's garage sale tomorrow.  And Sunday we have a business meeting after church---busy week of church activities!

Al, praying for you front and back!  Back and stomach, anyway.  Hope you are feeling better by now.

Janice, so good to see you posting, but sorry about the news for Earl.  Sometimes life just gets tough, doesn't it?  Hugs and prayers for you.

I must get back to work on those edits!  I only have two weeks to get it done, and am thinking this is harder than writing the book originally!  But I can  do all things through Christ, who gives me strength.

Hi there, Jeanne!  How you doing?  8)

Hi back atcha, Janet!  I'm "hanging in there". 

I've been wondering if all the rain we've had (15 or more inches above normal) is an indication of how much snow we'll be getting this winter.   :o

Whew!  I have spent six hours working on the edits on my manuscript, and am ready to call it a day.  There are so many details she wants me to do, certain things in certain colors, etc.  But I'm getting the hang of it!

Jeanne, we are hoping for lots of snow this winter.  This ol' country is parched to the 'bone.'  This last rain was SO wonderful, though, Praise God!

Good night!

Janet, I certainly understand why you want lots of snow this winter.  But personally, I would be delighted to see this area have what we used to call an "open" winter.  :D 

I'm sure you would, Jeanne, and I don't blame you one bit!  I don't want to be snowed in all winter, but a few really nice snows would be welcome.

Hi everyone.  Friday turned out to be a most beautiful day with low humidity, sun and very mild temperature.  I had a nice quiet type day.  Pat and I did go out to a late lunch at a big Asian Buffet that recently opened nearby called the Atlantic Buffet.  We did have a man come and give us an estimate to replace three different window sections where the seal has broken allowing moisture to build up between the thermal panes.  I am happy to be able to report that Pat is feeling much, much better as of yesterday so hopefully this bout is over for awhile.  She got a good report from her doctor.  Her knee problem is due to osteoarthritis.  He gave her some new pain medication to take.  I  will not do very much today as woke up again this morning feeling tired. 

Okay.  Here goes!  I went to Tony and Charlene's last night and took them out to eat for Charlene's birthday.  Afterwards I stopped at a Kroger store to get ingredients for a salad for Euchre Tuesday.  Leaving Kroger, I turned left onto a four-lane road with a turning lane in the middle.  Lots of traffic since it is near a huge High School.  I think a game just let out since it was 10pm.  I just got straighten up in the left lane and a big, huge black dog came right toward my left head light!  I screamed and braked.  I really think the dog hit me but he fell down.  And I ran over him. 

I couldn't stop with all the traffic behind me coming up so I went on.  But I didn't see the traffic behind me swerve or stop or slow down so I am hoping and praying that he lived and got out of the way!  Huge dog!  Like a Mastiff! 

I got into the right lane and looked for a lighted parking lot.  I found one a mile away.  All my lights are fine...but I am thinking the whole front of the car needs replaced from the hood down.  The hood is fine.  Grill, above and below the grill AND some trim but all the red is one piece that wraps from around the side to the other side. 

So I called my insurance today.  Monday I plan to take the car to where I took it in June.  Poor Hawaii.  Not even 4-months old yet and less than 3,000 miles and two boo boos already.  The lady I talked to at the insurance said they bought a red car in February and it's been in three accidents already!!  What is it with RED?

The other was $700+ so this must be $3,000+.  I was surprised the headlight wasn't busted but it is thick glass where the rest of the front is fiberglass. 

Mother Nature is raking my yard today with high winds!  Problem is, the leaves are going to Ivalou's yard!!  Bummer.  There is not a cloud in the sky and the sun is shining brightly!  Typical fall day!  And 52 degrees!  Cold when I went out earlier with my camera to take pictures of Hawaii.

Awww, poor baby!  But I'm thinking the car is much better off than the dog!  Sorry about that, Etta Sue, but glad you do have insurance.

I have been working on the book for several hours, going to take a little break and go visit Beth.  When I was there last, John had sent another huge box of stuff--Halloween this time.  A prisoner costume, complete with ball and chain, a candy bowl with skeletal hand that tries to 'get' you when you reach for candy, big rattle snake that strikes at you, and a door sign that says 'The witch is in', or switches to 'the witch is out.'  She was on the phone with John, and I asked him if he were calling my daughter a witch?  And he laughed and said 'yes'.  He's so thoughtful and tries to do whatever will make her smile, but I know where the STUFF ends up!  I hope I can talk her into giving it away after the 31st.  I don't have room to store all of her stuff, and I do NOT do Halloween, the devil's holiday.  But at the Home, they have the residents get candy, usually their families bring it, and then they invite the kids from the nearby school to come in and Trick or Treat, giving the residents a chance to see the kids in costume.

Janet, I couldn't agree more on your view of Halloween.  One church we were part of years ago recognized that it was actually reformation day, and they even put out a little tract about it.  The Roman church back then were reacting to  the reformation when they put out all that propaganda about witches, etc.

I have never liked Halloween and now it is larger than ever.  Our entire family never drives from that afternoon until the next day because I drummed it into their heads that children run right out into the streets just in a daze about getting candy. 

Al:  It began with the Romans criticizing the Reformation?  I didn't know the real beginning - they were the ones who burned priests who didn't follow the pope and wanted to do the same to Martin Luther as well. 

Etta Sue:  You didn't swerve and good for you - sorry about your episode, it makes you just sick, doesn't it? 

Janice:  If you come in here, I send prayers and hugs your way. 

Larry:  It is nice to hear that Pat is doing better.  You must have so many concerns about Stacey as well.  Isn't there anything for more help for her?  Glad that you and Pat can get out and relax at a restaurant once in a while.   

Hi, friends,

As I tapped the "Reply" button a beautiful purple iris photo popped up in the random image spot. Thanks for contributing all the great photos I see in that spot!

An unexpected pleasure this evening - my oldest son called and asked me to accompany him to dinner - his treat! We ate at a nice little Thai restaurant. It's quiet, has steady, but not noisy customer level, and good food. That was so nice to be with him. :)

Y'all have a great rest of the day with our Lord. There are evenings when I imagine our Father sitting in a big ole recliner chair with me held close to his chest while I settle in for a bit night's sleep. Then I imagine He tenderly carries me to bed and tucks me in with a soft loving pat and just the whisper of a kiss on my cheek.

G'nite, friends.

Ruth Ann

I watched a dog show on TV last evening.  Yes, that big black dog must have been a Mastiff.  I still see him in my mind coming right toward my car. 

Looks like it is going to be another beautiful fall day.  The sky is pink to the east, a little breeze and cool temperatures. 

I am manning the projector system this morning at church.  Another lady and I changed weeks since she and her husband had plans out of town today. 

I am sure some of us will go out to eat after church.  The rest of the day?  Other than posting a new week on here, I don't know!

Aren't those days wonderful, too, Etta Sue?  When you just kind of sit back and watch the Lord work?   :thumbsup:

Hi everyone.  I had a lost day yesterday as was so weary that all I wanted to do was rest in bed.  I felt better when I got up this morning but feel the weariness returning.  I am not going to church today as will take another day to rest.  I have been able to line someone up to come tomorrow to check on the wind turbine situation on our roof and also another little project on our kitchen cabinets.  We are also going to discuss with him having the doorway into our bedroom and the doorway into our bathroom widened to accommodate a wheelchair.  We erred when we had the house built in not having wide doors installed.  There is wall space to accommodate these changes.  Pat wants to look into the possibility of having one of those walk in bathtubs installed although apparently the installation is done by the company that makes the tubs. 


Etta Sue, was shocked to read of you having another accident with your new car.  Dog and cats can be like children in doing unpredictable things in terms of crossing a street.  Glad you weren't hurt or caused to run into someone else.  You certainly were not at fault.

It's that time again.  Time to start brand new, sparkling new week!

Where?  Here (http://www.christianphotographers.com/community/index.php?topic=11989.msg167215#msg167215)!