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Ivalou, Betty, Marge and I went to the movies last night.  A comedy.  One of those that when it was over you can't remember the comedy parts! 

I am ready for church and today we are having a catered meal in the basement for our All Church Banquet.  It's always a great meal.

It's raining but suppose to stop this morning.  Hope I can mow tomorrow before my Botox. 

Good Sunday morning to all you loved ones!

I enjoyed the reunion last night, and my fifth grade teacher, Mr. Winegarner, and his wife, also a teacher (i never had her, though) were honored for the many years they spent teaching in that small school.  They are both 87 years old now, but they sure don't look it!  I wrote a little poem and made a special card for Mr. Winegarner, and he appreciated it so much!  A band composed of former graduates of the school played the song "Let's Chase Each Other Round the Room Tonight" and the Winegarners got up and danced in the front of the room.  Sweet.

My former school is in Colorado, so that meant it was an hour behind us in time, so it was 1:30 AM by the time I got to bed.  I may have trouble staying awake in church this morning!  We are going to My Father's House, as at 1:00 her parents are having a birthdfay party for GGDaughter Chelsea in Moscow.  (Okay, I know--TMI, sorry)

I must get ready for church soon.  I explained to Beth why we won't be there to take her today, so she plans to go to the service held there at the home.  She told me yesterday that today is 6 years since that surgery that nearly took her life.  Time is flying, folks!

Sorry not to address everyone today, but know I do read your post, and I do care!

Hi everyone on an overcast morning after getting some rain during the night. It looks like the rain is all going north of us.  We will attend church this morning and do something for lunch but otherwise expect a quiet Sunday of rest and relaxation.  Stacey called a few minutes ago and said she had given up the idea of trying to attend her church this morning.  It is a long train and bus ride for her each way and it is still too soon for her to try it even though she wants to go so much.

Gord, glad to see your post and know that Noreen is doing well.  It is quite a process of recovery but the results are well worth it.  Pat did not go to outpatient rehab for her hip but had for her knee.  I fear a bit that she is not keeping up the exercises that would be helpful to her but that is her business.  However, she is pain free in her knee and her hip, which is marvelous.  Sure hope Noreen has the same experience with her knee.  I hope you don't have to have hip surgery but it might solve the pain problem.  Hope you have enjoyed your concert today.

Etta Sue, very good devotional for this week.  Thanks.

Janet, your former teacher and his wife sound like very special people.  Nice they can still dance at 87 years of age. You lost me in your discussion of going to Your Father's House this afternoon when you say "her parents". Is this the Winegarner's you are referring to?  Time does go fast as wouldn't have guessed it had been six years since the terrible ordeal that Beth went through and you did as well. 

A beautiful afternoon here.  We walked over to the area's recreation center as they had a free entrance to an expo of home improvements.  There was an air conditioner company who said they would actually return a call for a check-up of our unit.  Don was winded and we stopped both walks to and from to sit and watch a man flying a radio-controlled airplane.   Great weather right now with a chance of snow with the rain coming the middle of this week. 

The quilt meeting was so interesting yesterday and worth the drive.  But - way beyond what I do - all about composition and other features while I just "wing it".  Lots of guest speakers are on tap for our church because the lead pastor is retiring.  Well, he is staying on for a lot of other work - I wonder how long that will last because he will be pulled into more decisions than he wants to be making, that is for sure. 

Washing pillows today and they are out on a fold-away drying bar in the sunshine & doing well.  Don says he will buy me a Smashburger this week - they just opened a new store nearby & he has already stopped in with one of our boys.  What a name! 

Janet:  My Father's House - isn't that a song meaning church? 

Gord:  Great news on Noreen. 

Larry:  Have a nice and quiet day of rest. 

Sorry for the confusion, Larry.  I was talking about little Chelsea's parents having her party today.  My Father's House is the name of the church in Hugoton my kids/grandkids attend, and we love it, too.

And Beth was mistaken, as it has been four years, not six.  She said six, but then said it was in '09.  nSo that's four years.  I hope we never have to go through such an ordeal again, but God was faithful, and his presence was with us every hour.

We are back home now and my easy chair is calling my name!  ;)

Gord, it's always great to see a post from you, and especially one that has good news.  I'm glad Noreen is doing well - you both are always in my prayers.

Larry, I'm sure Stacey is going to find she's able to do less at first than she expected, but at least she was wise enough to realize that going to church would be too much. 

Janet, six years or four years - it was still a terrible experience and I'm sure will always be a fresh memory.  When do you leave for Turkey?

Carol anything at all that has to do with quilting is way beyond me.  I'll just stick to knitting and crocheting - and maybe some embroidery.  (And of course my computer!  :D )

Jeanne--one week from today!  We will drive to Oklahoma City on Monday, then fly out of there on Tuesday.  Getting close!!  Everybody keeps asking, "Why Turkey?"  My answer, "Why not?  Lots to see there, lots to learn."  But prayers will be appreciated, both for health and safety on the trip, and for protection over our minds.  You can surmise why, without my spelling it out.  In preparation, I am reading a book by a fourth-generation Arab Christian called The Crescent Through the Eyes of the Cross.

I don't think we are going to the gym today, Darrel has a sore knee and I am fighting off an attack of the enemy on my health.  Need to be well and strong for the trip!

More flooding--Houston this time!  Goodness.....

I shall return!

Hi everyone on a misty overcast day.  We had about 2 inches of rain yesterday and last night and may get some more later today.  Pat just left to go to the new Walmart Neighborhood Market that she has never been.  I am so glad to see her feeling up to doing and going more.  I have my Monday Men's luncheon and than a meeting today.  Otherwise plan a quiet day.

Carol, Pat has never been interested in design or fancy quilts.  I think she just enjoys making strips and sewing them together.  She is started on two quilts made with identical colorful fabric that we will use on our beds so they will match.  We have a big spread but it turned out to be too much hassle to use and are now using two quilts that do not match.  Her project is in the early stages.  When it is done I will post a picture.  I think you are right about your retiring pastor and trying to stay in the same church.  I fell for the incoming pastor having to work under those circumstances.  I have never heard of Smashburger's.

Janet, thanks for the explanations.  That is an interesting name for a church that could apply to all churches I would hope.  I sure thought it hadn't been six years for Beth's terrible experience.  I knew time was speeding past but glad to know it isn't going quite that fast. :)  My easy chair knows my name as well and seems to call earlier each afternoon.  I am sure you will be seeing a much different culture in Turkey, which has a long history. Hope both of you get to feeling better quickly. 

Jeanne, Stacey called Pat this morning as she was out and about and was waiting for the Party City store to open to get some plastic ware forks or spoons.  However, Pat said she was in tears this morning as she is having a rough time accepting what has happened so suddenly to her. 

I do believe we need to have more catered meals at church....the walls were bursting with happiness to see so many at church!  And it was a great meal.  We even had to sit up more tables and chairs! 

I remember, Janet, of you being away from home so long to be with Beth while she was fighting for her life.  God is good...always.  I didn't think it was 6 years either but felt that was something that Beth would never forget. 

I am debating on whether to mow today or wait until tomorrow when it is to be sunny and warmer.  Just decided.  Wait!  So after a bite to eat I will take my shower so I will be ready by 3:15 for Kitty to take me to get my botox injections.  I am like you, why not go to Turkey if the opportunity arises that you could go?  I would love to go but in the Mediterranean area.

Janet, there will be prayers said here in New York state for travel mercies and strength, mental, physical and emotional, for you and Darrel as you take this trip to Turkey.

Larry, it has to be a major upheaval for Stacey and difficult to cope with.  My prayers for her strength and peace and comfort continue.

Yes, Beth's memory is terrific, but her math is not so good.  ;)

I'm sure Stacey will have times of frustration and sadness over what has happened, and that is perfectly natural.  But I will pray for her that those times pass quickly and are replaced by optimism and thankfulness.

Thanks, Jeanne, the prayers are vital.  Pastor Pam prayed for me yesterday after church, agreeing with all my petitions.  She is really a woman of God, and so loving and fun, too.  Her husband was the pastor, but was taken by cancer quite suddenly several years ago.  She is doing a terrific job, though.

I have cleaned the bathroom thoroughly and washed all my scatter rugs.  I do wish they would make them so they didn't fall apart the first time you wash them!   >:(  They do get dirty, after all!

Etta Sue, your church catered dinner sounds great.  And it's nice once in a while not to have to bring food, gives the ladies a break.

We are continuing our packing.  Want to take as little as possible but still have everything we really need.  We are only allowed one bag of not more than 44 pounds plus a carry-on not weighing more than 11 pounds.  (Each of us, I mean!)  So have to "pack smart!"

Hi, friends,

I'm back after a brief absence with my family.  It was so good to be with all of the Nashville-based children at one point or another during the weekend.

My elderly friend has been moved from the hospital to hospice. I'll try to get there tomorrow to see her. Without much function of her major organs, she will most likely be rejoicing and whole once again in Heaven in a few days.

Y'all have a wonderful rest, and Janet, y'all have a wonderful trip.

Love to all, and love most of all to our loving Saviour,

Ruth Ann

Hi everyone.  It is another overcast morning but suppose to go up to 80 degrees this afternoon.  Yesterday evening was just beautiful with low humidity and the right temperature.  I don't have much planned for today.

I will probably attend a meeting later this morning and that will be about it.    Pat is making a big pot of soap.  She cleaned a lot of left-overs and frozen vegetables from the freezer. We need the room in the freezer for a bunch of meat she bought yesterday at Walmart.  She did not care for the Walmart Neighborhood market and said she probably won't go back.  By the time she got home she was close to the limit of what she can currently stand up to but know she enjoyed being out and doing the shopping and I will gladly turn that responsibility back over to her.  She just told me that tonight she is going to go out to eat with her book club ladies from the church.  When there is a 5th Tuesday they go out to eat together rather than meet to discuss a book.

Etta Sue, folks do enjoy potlucks and cathered meals at church.  I went to a potluck on Saturday and there was a ton of food of all different types.  Hope the mowing goes well today and you get the sunshine. 

Jeanne, this has been another major hurdle for Stacey.  Yesterday the visiting nurse came and has arranged for a caregiver to come twice a week to help her and also arranged for the bandages she needs to tend to her leg.  Hopefully she will like the caregiver.

Janet, Stacey is thankful to still be alive.  When she had the first amputation she (and we) were most concerned that she wouldn't survive the surgery but she came through with flying colors. Our senior pastor will leave this next week for a three month sabbatical to Ireland, North Carolina and a week of mediation.  So our associate pastor, Nichole, will have the full responsibility but the grant he got does provide funds for an assistant to help with sick calls and other visitations and our former Interim Pastor, who was so well liked and has basically retired, will be filling that role.  Glad you like your pastor so well. The packing sounds like a jigsaw puzzle. 

Ruth Ann, glad you were able to be with your family over the weekend.  Sorry about your elderly friend but it sounds like she is prepared for Eternity. 

We had an amazing weekend at church and at the evening concert. We laughed and we cried, God spoke. 

Heather took the train from London to Toronto and then public transit through to the church.  She arrived just as we were finishing the last hymn.  She was able to spend the day with us, laughing and enjoying each other's company.  After church in the evening we drove Heather to the Bay Street Bus Station.  The thing to remember about Toronto is that 90% of the intersections are "No Left Turn", and Young Street is No Left or Right turn.  On top of that there was construction blocking the turns we could have normally made.  You know the truckers say there are only 2 seasons, winter and construction.  There was a road that came up and Heather and I said in unison turn right.  John did.  This led to Queens Key.  (I am giving street names for Pat who knows the area I am talking about.) Queens Key is a narrow road with a lane each direction and Street car tracks down the center.  John didn't see the correct lane in time and proceeded down the streetcar  lanes, taking up both lanes at once.....to not get caught in the tracks.  I was in a panic and both Heather and I were howling with laughter at John's mistake and Wondering what he would do if a streetcar cam up either behind us or in front of us. These tracks are specifically for streetcars!  As soon as we saw a street we could take off at we turned. only to be back in construction and no turns.  So we would go right turn in a driveway and head back in the correct direction.  We drove narrow back roads for Trucks to load or unload their goods....These led to curbs we had to go over to get back onto a main road.  What a mess of construction Toronto is in!.  We couldn't go N onto Spadina so had to do another series of rights and into a driveway to get turned around to go north.  We Made a U turn on University to get going in the right direction......A trip that should have taken 20 minutes was about an hour long.  Getting to the highway was about a 10 minute drive.....We got back to the hotel quickly, and continued to laugh at all the moves we had to take to get Heather to the bus.  There was an earlier bus to London than she had expected, so she was home when she expected to be leaving Toronto.

Back to Carman.  He has set up a music instruction program for praise leaders and those who want to develop a viable music program within churches. This is an online course that takes a year and there is nothing like it in the Christian music field.  There is in the secular, not in the Christian.  All the course costs is a mere $100 for the entire year!  By the end of the evening we could see him tiring.  He has Multiple Myeloma Cancer with a 3-5 year window of time to live.  He is determined to continue to preach and lead people to Christ repenting from sin as long as he has a voice and the strength to do that. 

He preached on the Proverbs 31 Woman.  His question was why don't we become a Proverbs 31 people, why does virtue have to be associated to only women.  We all need to be virtuous, like the Proverbs 31 woman......How many men are virtuous in their lives and dealings with others.  A virtuous person has sinned, has history and knows what was wrong with their lives. They repented of their sins, made the changes to become virtuous.  He said we all have history, but there is no reason why we cannot repent and become like the virtuous woman......WOW.  I never thought of it in that way......Much more was said.

I will give the link to his message when I get it.  I pray we all ".....lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us,  Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God." Hebrews 12:1b-2

Judy, that was quite a drive you had!   :lol:

Carman sounds like a very special person.  I'm sure you enjoyed his presentation - hope you get the link to his message.

Good Day all!  We ran to the store for several items as it seem like the middle of every week another snow/rain day or two is expected.  It was warmer this morning than right now.  I have missed three Wednesday bible studies because of either being not well or having ice on the streets. 

Janet:  How exciting.  Take care of yourselves on this trip. 

Jeanne:  You can do my knitting and I will bring my machine to sew. 

Larry:  So, Pat is making soap for dinner.  Enjoy! :D  Nice to read that Stacey is so grateful to be living.  There is a lot of good life for her ahead.  Does Stacey have a hobby?  I was thinking of sewing, of course. 

A good friend of many years is having a small surgery today to mend a tear from his last surgery - apparently losing blood in his urine and it has come on gangbusters problem now.  They are still in Arizona and want to get back to Minnesota.  We are supposed to meet them at their cabin up North next month but the main thing is that he mends from this latest health issue. 

Lost my post and not doing it again!  You will just have to wonder what I have been doing today!!

Larry, you made my  day...I needed a laugh...

When I first read it ; I thought boy, she's amibitious!!Making her own soap or just wanted to go
organic but then I read about the vegetables and thought I think it's soup and it sounded delicious...

Quote from: Carol on April 30, 2013, 04:01:30 PM
Jeanne:  You can do my knitting and I will bring my machine to sew. 

Carol, sounds like a plan!   :D

I got a chuckle out of Pat making a big pot of soap, too!  ;)  Nothing better than good homemade soup!  Glad Stacey has a good attitude about her life.

I am bushed tonight.  I coughed and coughed all night, so not much rest.  So decided maybe I should see the doctor, and she gave me two prescriptions and said I should be fine in a couple of days.  That's what I thought, too, but sure didn't want to leave on an overseas trip feeling yucky. 

Then I went with my sister to Johnson (20 some miles) to eat with the Red Hat ladies; then attended the funeral of a sweet lady I have known for many years.  She was 99 years old, and very tiny, maybe weighed about 60 pounds. 

And I am going to bed EARLY.

Carol, hope you and Don are feeling well now.  Thanks for the good wishes on the trip.

Judy, that was quite a drive in Toronto--glad I wasn't there!  Also glad it ended well.

Ruth Ann, nice that you are seeing more of your family these days.

Oh meant to tell you I got a Tshirt with a salt shaker and a light bulb on it.  I wore it shopping today.  The cashier asked about it.  I told her it was a salt shaker and a light bulb... She didn't get it, so I explained that we are to be the salt of the earth and the light to the world.... There was no comment and she looked away.  Another customer looked at me and gave the thumbs up sign.  I am normally shy about speaking up about my faith, the shirt opened my mouth!

This afternoon has been one of reflection. My sweet elderly friend is quietly resting waiting for the graduation to Heaven. Two very close friends and I visited for only a few moments today, closing with prayer and one verse of "Amazing Grace."

Then the 3 of us took care of some errands and business in the same places.

As I dropped them off at the church, I thought I might not be able to make it back to the apartment before darkness would begin to fall.

So, I pulled into a fast food restaurant and ordered a vanilla ice cream cone, moved to the parking area and faced the car toward the setting sun. Oh, the sense of peace that settled down around me as the sky was brushed with sweeping strokes of pink and purple and a hint of orange. Imagine the breathtaking beauty of this scene, where, as darkness descended, two trees not yet leafed out for summer held their branches and almost seemed to turn to view that sunset.

At the end of about 30 minutes, it was totally dark and street lights were on. So, I felt safe to continue to the apartment. What a breathtakingly beautiful way to end the evening.

Much love to our Lord and Saviour, who participated in making that sun and sky and clouds, and trees, and ...........  How blessed we are to live in God's world!

Love to all,
Ruth Ann

Heavy snowfall this morning so I don't know if I should drive to bible study or not.  sometimes they cancel as our pastor from Louisiana just can't drive in snow. 

Awake with a concerning  heart this morning - I know it isn't a life-threatening thing but our son-in-law and others in the medical device department sales lost their jobs.  The threat of a new tax on our medical device developments is hanging there and sales have been dim.  Our daughter is working so very hard. 

Ruth Ann:  Your description of stopping to smell the roses in your own way - watching the beautiful vista was so helpful to me and I thank you so much. 

JudyB:  I didn't catch it right away - the meaning of your salt tee shirt.  Nice - that girl asked and she did get the message. 

Snow is building out there - it is beautiful and we always need the moisture. 

Judy, where did you get that wonderful T-short?  What a great message is gives.  :thumbsup:

Have you folks checked out our latest Mini Challenge in the photography area?  HERE (http://www.christianphotographers.com/community/index.php?topic=12603.msg178660#msg178660)  This time the subject is "Trees" and you'll especially enjoy the one with dogwood blossoms.   ;D  By the way, if you have photos of trees and would like to post them in the challenge but need help, just give me a shout.  I'll be most happy to explain how, or I can post them for you.  The more entries we can get the better!

Well, I overtaxed myself with doing too much yesterday in one day.  I not do that again! 

Today Ivalou and I are going to Bob Evans and then to Walmart to get in groceries for our bare cupboards and anything else that calls our name! 

Then tonight is a VBS meeting at church at 7pm.  That's it! 

Ruth Ann ~ I love the ending to your evening.  I do that a lot in the summer by sitting on the deck and watching the sunset ....or until I am eaten by mosquitoes before coming back in the house.

Janet ~ Hope whatever you have is over before getting on that airplane for Turkey!

Larry ~ I didn't catch the making a big pot of soap.  I guess I am too used to typing mistakes!! 

JudyB ~ I, too, would love to have a salt shaker and light bulb T Shirt! 

Carol ~ Keep your snow there, please.  Indiana is finally getting nice temperatures that doesn't go with snow!  We like it that way.  And the farmers are praying for dry weather...at least, until the crops start coming up!

Joyce ~ Hi!  Come back more often!

Jeanne ~ I could bring my crocheting and we could have a good ol' time working our fingers.

The TShirt was at the concert.  ...... YOu would have to contact Carman's organization to get one!

John had a breakdown last night.  HE stopped at a truck stop to grab a coffee and use the washroom, when he got back to the truck it would not start the computer system wouldn't cycle, there was no activity in the engine compartment at all.  However there was battery power.  It took a long time for the shop to get to him only to find out thet there was a wire that had shorted out.  That was caused by the de-icing spray they put on the roads.  That "stuff" is wicked how it eats away at the wiring in our vehicles, causing the computer systems to short out.  One of our vans died because the computer system shorted out and was too expensive to replace.

THis is another beautiful day here in the north. It is 63 F right now with a high expected to be 76F  this is a welcome change, however, that means the black flies will be out very soon!

Have a wonderful day folks and Larry enjoy your soap!

Oh, yes, crazy weather!  They are saying we will go from the high 8os yesterday to snow tonight, with a drop of 50 degrees.  Global warming?  Hardly.  I heard yesterday on TV!  ;)  that we are into a cycle of global cooling that is to last for 200 years.  That's a long time to wait for a warm-up!

Ruth Ann, it is good to take time to enjoy God's beautiful creation.

Etta Sue, do take it easy!

Carol, sorry to hear of your concern for son's job.  Times are tough  for a lot of people, but our "leaders" continue to spend like there will never come a day of reckoning.

Thank you, Etta for the welcome back

Janet, my hubby is just getting over that nasty cold and cough, first my daughter in law, then my son, then two of my other employees--dropping like flies around me!!!! Get better for your trip.

Judy, love your shirt--I'm shy, too, but this would be a great way to spread word--they ask about shirt and you reply; then if anyone wants a conversation you are all set..If not, they quietly still get the message and something to walk away and think about -that I know they will do..All we can do is live our life showing what HE does in our life and let others go from there....

Is it a salt shaker with a light bulb inside the salt shaker??I saw that on a website..

Boy, your hubby's truck sounded like our problem last week..Car engine light comes on, car stalls and mechanic says its some kind of computer problem..

Where are the days when cars could be fixed without computer disc going bad...

Oh, well, modern technology !!!!

Forgot to mention a thank you to Marilyn--sorry to hear you were ill but when you mentioned natural remedies of colds I mentioned it to my daughter.

Her doctor/nutritionist recommended the vit.c and zinc too but also when she was coughing she took
ginger drops/lozenges and boy it seems to cleared her up so far better than what I gave my hubby ...
She, too, is getting set to put up herb garden and tomatoes...

so again thank you

Larry, your talking about Stacy is so heartfelt--prayers all the way around and I feel the warmest love and thankful gratitude to our Lord for helping her and your family through this...HE does take us to problems but also brings us to solutions; we are just told to Keep the Faith and Trust HIM...

Hi everyone on mid-afternoon here on an overcast Georgia afternoon.  It still isn't up to 70 degrees this afternoon.  I was gone all morning attending coffee at McDonald's, Bible study at the church and then an hour at Dunkin' Donuts.  My good friend, Bob, who is fighting prostate cancer that has spread to his bones and his wife stopped in to spend the hour with us.  I should get a haircut and go to the bank but think that can wait until the morning.  Just had a nice restful nap and ready for a quiet evening.  Pat did enjoy her dinner out with the women of the church bookclub but was tired when she got home. 

Judy, how great that you were able to spend time with Heather on your weekend outing.  What a drive.  I don't think I ever heard of a street with no turns allowed.  I wonder why the no right hand turn rule?  Glad you didn't get a ticket for driving in the streetcar designated lane.  It sounds like you attended a marvelous concert and very inspiring. 

Carol, hope the snow hasn't been too heavy today in your area.  Actually the "soap" was quite good and didn't taste soapy at all.  :)  She wasn't making soap but has been making our laundry soap for sometime out of washing soda and Borax with hot water.  It is much, much less expensive than regular laundry soap and seems to be just as good a job.  It is very simple to make and the cost is sure right.  Stacey doesn't have a hobby like sewing but with her vision now I doubt that she could do it if she liked to do it.  She loves too play games on her computer or the Kindle Fire and that helps her pass time while watching television.  I think because of the pain medication she has to continually take that she sleeps a lot as well, which isn't a bad way to get through a very painful day.  Sure hope your friend can have the necessary surgery soon.

Etta Sue, now our curiosity will be up as to what you were doing yesterday. :)  It sounds like you have a pretty full schedule for today. 

Joyce, I also got a laugh from my soapy soup.  :)

Janet, that was really a tiny lady but she had a very long life.  Hope you are starting to feel better today and glad you still have a few days before you leave on your trip.

Ruth Ann, it is wonderful when we bask in the beauty that God provides us on a daily basic in our environment and the beauty of the sky.  Glad you got home safely.  The days are certainly having more daylight than a couple of months ago.

Carol, sorry about your SIL losing his job but expect there will be many people who will experience the same thing as more is learned about the effects of the Obamacare Act.   

Jeanne, I guess I should enter my pictures of our Bradford Pear tree in our yard or across the street.  I stopped on my way home this morning and took a picture of some beautiful Iris that are blooming in a neighbors yard.  I just love flower pictures. 

Judy, I bet John was surprised about his new truck having such a problem.  I hope it didn't delay his schedule too much.  Are his living quarters run off the same batteries as the truck so that he had some light and heat, if needed?

Joyce, I have heard on the radio today about the mess in our military regarding potentially court marshaling our chaplains or any shoulder who shares his beliefs with the accusation they are worse that rapists.  What is our country coming to.  I have never heard of ginger drop cough drops.

Well, my friend is now dancing with joy in Heaven. She was a wonderful Christian lady, who served as a great role model to many of us.

Today I was awakened with a "can you help me, Mom" call...son #1's car wouldn't start and he needed a way to the dentist. Then, afterward, a quick trip to Sam's Club for some items he needed.

Y'all have a good rest of the day, friends.

Ruth Ann

Judy, that was hilarious to read of Queen's Quay and all the No Left Turns or Right ones either.  What a trip!!!  (Laughing as I write).


Larry, I'm so happy that your "soup" didn't taste "soapy"!  HAHAHAHA!  Please give Pat my love.


Nice to read ALL of your posts.  It's late and I'm too tired to reply to them all.  :( 

Larry the battery power was not affected at all He had his supper and by the time the truck was fixed it was too late to carry on so went to bed.  He was on time for his delivery so n problem there!

Larry when you mentioned:

I have heard on the radio today about the mess in our military regarding potentially court marshaling our chaplains or any shoulder who shares his beliefs with the accusation they are worse that rapists.  What is our country coming to

I felt the same way --really hit "my gut"..

If we keep continuing this way ; we shouldn't be surprise if Our Heavenly Father lifts
"the safety net" that HE has protected our country with..We keep taking HIM away from school, government, etc. it'll be just a matter of time.

But I still have faith in the goodness of most of the people who believe and the Christians will rise up and meet the challenges of the ones who try to take our beliefs away.

Pray that every day...

Off to work....Take care

Good morning everyone...

It's so nice to read about all your "comings and goings" in here.  It would be so nice if we had many more of our members in here, wouldn't it?

Joyce, it's so good to have you back!

HYMN HISTORY:
If down the years the great Shepherd Psalm has been turned and twisted to suit the generations and their singing capacities, no one did it more happily than Sir Henry Williams Baker in this hymn. He devoted his life (1821-77) to hymns, and stayed for twenty-six years as vicar in the little village of Monkland amongst the apple orchards of England's Herefordshire in order that he might write hymns and edit hymn-books.

For years he worked on the first comprehensive hymn-book that was offered to the Church of England, which has won such a place of affection for itself, "Hymns, Ancient and Modern," and was himself a prolific contributor to it.

Baker's rendering of Psalm 23 is his monument. It has as easy swing about it.

The King of love my Shepherd is,
Whose goodness faileth never;
I nothing lack if I am His,
And He is mine, for ever.

Where streams of living water flow
My ransomed soul He leadeth,
And, where the verdant pastures grow,
With food celestial feedeth.

Verse three is particularly expressive of the Good Shepherd.

Perverse and foolish oft I strayed,
But yet in love He sought me,
And on His shoulder gently laid,
And home, rejoicing, brought me.

These were the last words that Baker spoke as he lay dying - as tender a verse as any written in the hymn-books.
 


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BIBLE PASSAGE:
1 ¶ The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want.
2 He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters.
3 He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake.
4 Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.
5 Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over.
6 Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the LORD for ever.

Hi everyone.  We have another dreary but mild day here in Georgia.  I am just back from getting a haircut and then going to the credit union, post office and finally the local bank.  Think that will pretty well be it for today unless Pat wants to go out and eat for either lunch or dinner. 

Ruth Ann, nice you could be there for your #1 son. 

Joyce, I did hear additional commentary on the military chaplain matter that a meeting had been requested by this man who was espousing these ideas.  So it appears it may not happen at all, but who knows. 

I am giving you all a break and writing a short message this morning.  :)

I am already missing the nice longer posts from Larry - don't change Larry!   

We had a nice & long chat with our SIL.  He is upbeat and ready to get on the job hunt. 

Record  morning here with 19 ° F - it matches a 1907 temperature.  Icy roads caused a 22 car crash yesterday - they just won't stop tailgating.  The sun is out and all is melting quickly.  Lovely winter wonderland outside.

Thanks for the update, Larry.

You know good news, bad news, any news put out there for people to read gets "the juices flowing" ..

People will sit up and notice; how they respond is up to them.

Faith in the ones who get upset by the news will talk about it and one thing leads to another...

Thanks, Pat, for the welcome.

Very busy the past year, took our house off the market and the following week a couple made a bid on it...Settled and then two weeks before closing; they backed out..

Guess its for the best, my mom turned 98 and becoming frailer so I am needed here in NJ ....

Still travel every weekend to Pennsylvania now for the relaxation of the lake and the peacefulness I need before starting the work week each Monday.

Prayers to all who are in need and a great BIG thank you for answered prayers...

HE is good...

Yes, Joyce.  He is good. 

And 'No, Larry.  We don't need a break from your newsy, uplifting posts'.  We love them.

Yesterday Ivalou and I went to Bob Evans for lunch.  Marge joined us there. 

Then Ivalou and I went to Walmart for some much needed groceries and what ever else called our name.  So after over an hour of shopping, I welcomed sitting down and waiting for Ivalou.  She finally checked out and then we headed home.  I do believe it was the most bags of stuff I have ever purchased.  First I took Ivalou's purchases into her house since she isn't to lift over 5#.  Then she asked me to see if I could get a hand soap dispenser to work.  I couldn't and besides I had frozen items in the trunk of the car.

Then I drove in my drive and it took four trips to bring in all my purchases and I put them away before moving the car to the garage. 

Remember I have back pain...only while standing.  Sometimes, like yesterday, when I am standing or walking a lot, I get more than my normal pain.  It is like a bee sting where the normal pain usually is.  Ouch!!  I was really glad to sit down.  As soon as I sit, the pain goes away!!  Weird! 

Today I had a moment or two like Ruth Ann...enjoying Mother Nature that I know is God's creation.  I took my bistro umbrella out to the deck and bistro table.  I ate my breakfast and then took my Bible and coffee to the bistro table.  How wonderful to hear the wind chimes, the birds singing, even the hum of traffic on my road and the highway across the way.  Then I heard a meow.  Inky was missing her Momma.  I told her I was outside that if she went to the front door she could see me.  I don't know if she did that but she stopped crying.  Bet she cries when I am away all the time! 

I see my Lilac bushes are in bloom.  I can't bring any into my house because Ali eats all my plants!  But I think I will cut some for Ivalou and see if I can figure out her soap dispenser!

May second and snow here!  Amazing!  Must be that global warming again!  ;)

Larry, please don't change!  We love you posts!


I had to go back and check  to see if I posted this morning while I was here, and see that I didn't.

No news here, we are trying to finish packing and not forget anything vital.  I took Diane's information (all her phone numbers) to the home so if Beth needs anything, they can call her sister.

Hope you all have a pleasant evening!

Hello everyone. I've been busy with work and  things to do at home. I worked an  extra day yesterday to take care of 10 dogs that were brought up from a kill shelter in California. they need to be neutered and spayed, lots of ticks removed dental work etc. today I have been to the gym, and to yoga class, I have bread in the bread maker, did two loads of laundry and took each dog for a walk. Whew!!! Oh and I have already cooked the chicken for our chicken tacos for supper.

it was nice to sit down and read about everyone's daily  doing and I especially loved Ruth Ann's description of the sun set and her ice cream cone.

Hi everyone.  It is a very chilly, windy and damp sort of day here in Georgia with rain expected later and for the weekend.  I am just back from coffee at the Senior Center and plan on attending a ROMEO's luncheon at 11:30 if things works out OK.  Nothing else on the schedule for today.

Carol and others, that is nice of you to say about my long posts but I really do need to attempt to shorten them up.  Wow, that is cold for May--no wonder it is a record.

Joyce, how disappointing to be ready to close on a sale and have it fall through but that seems to be very common these days.  Several years ago this happened to our son and his wife but not until the day of closing.  When they actually sold it a few months later they didn't tell us until they had signed the final papers and the sale was complete.  Glad you are still able to enjoy your weekends in PA.   

Etta Sue,  it has been a long time since we were where we could eat at a Bob Evan's, which is one of our favorite places.  Glad your pain goes away when you sit.  Pat experiences the same thing and can stand for only about 5 minutes in the kitchen before needing to sit down.  I believe you have your cat spoiled or the cat has you well trained.  :)  I love lilacs, which we don't have down here.

Janet, sounds like you are getting things all in order for your trip.  Are you feeling better now?

Marilyn, who pays for the care the dogs and cats receive?  It sounds like you are working a lot but loving it. 

I just spend about a half hour downloading 'FreeOpener' to open an .ext file I received in an email from the church secretary to see the dates for VBS meetings.  I still couldn't open it after downloading the opener.  Then I went back to the email and there was the clickable to go to the church website...and there is the list of the VBS meetings....duh!   :idiot:   I should read first, I guess.

Janet~Usually if I have a blizzard in May it comes from Dairy Queen!!  :roflBig:  Got that today in an email....a Maxine cartoon.

Marilyn~I think you put Janet and I both to shame with all you accomplished in one day!  You go, Girl!!

Larry~I really like Bob Evans for breakfast but if I go later in the day, my favorite is their Wildfire Salad...breaded fried chicken in the salad with a hot barbeque sauce!!  That's what I had the other day! 

I didn't do much yesterday other than take some Lilacs to Ivalou.  While there I remove her Pur filter from her kitchen faucet so she could clean it.  She has very rusty water and the thing was clogged up.  So I removed both bathroom faucet aerators, too, to soak them in vinegar also.  She had a soap dispenser that she couldn't get to plunge.  I finally got it so it would plunge but you have to pull it back up to plunge again...weird! 

And tonight Ivalou and I are invited to a surprise birthday party for one of our Euchre players.  I wanted to give her a little something so I crocheted a can cozy and put a Decaffeinated Diet Pepsi in it for her.  I made a card and it is all in a gift bag ready for Janet to open! 

I had my coffee and devotions again on the deck.  Today was windier but I still could hear Inky crying.  So the nice Momma that I am, I moved the bistro table so she could see me on the deck.  Ali checked me out also and all was quiet in the house.  No meowing!  <3

Judy: Thank you for the email. I haven't been on the site because of busy times, and not always having access to the internet.

We've had a very busy year, with a lot of health problems in our family.

My husband's brother lost his wife in the summer due to cancer.

In the fall, my youngest sister's husband had to have surgery on his eye, and we didn't know if he would gain any sight back. It is slowly coming back.

In November, my brother had a heart attack, and had to have a stent put in. He is doing well now.

In December when we were visiting my Dad, I had to rush my older sister to the hospital - she had low salt and high blood pressure. That was a long night, especially when the hospital was half an hour away. Then a few weeks later, this same sister was at our house, and we were in church. Her husband was going to speak in our church in about 20 minutes. My sister almost collapsed, and her husband and I rushed her to the hospital. We thought she was having a heart attack. Once again, it was because her sodium levels were low. She has had difficulty getting her blood pressure under control.

Then later in December, we were to go and see our daughter, but it didn't work out, so we thought we'd pop up to my Dad's for the night for a short visit. When we walked in, he was sitting in his chair, not looking well. We took him to the hospital (another half hour trip) and found that he had a heart attack. This definitely was not a coincidence that we were there right at the right time:) He was in hospital for three weeks, had an angiogram, and then a triple bypass, and then moved in with us for a couple of months. He was a very sick man, and our time was very busy. He is doing better and is on his own again.

At the same time, my youngest sister was diagnosed with ovarian cancer, stage three. She is now on her second round of treatments, with 4 more to go. This has been very difficult for everyone.

And, while my Dad was at our place, I had to be checked for a detached retina. This has been okay, and has only left me with a big floater, which is annoying, but not serious.

Then my oldest sister's husband had a heart attack. He had to have an angiogram and a stent.

My husband's brother's wife was diagnosed with Durkum's Disease. Very painful, and no cure.

Just recently, we had a lot of flooding in our area. The lake level was very high, and the ice wasn't out yet or broken up yet (it was still about 6 - 8 inches thick), and the wind blew the ice our way and destroyed our boathouse. We lost a lot of things in it, but our house is fine, and it isn't like the way it is in other areas in our county. This has kept us very busy.

I have checked CP at times and have been praying as I read. So many things happening, and so many trials for everyone to go through. I'm glad that we have eternity with God to look forward to.

I'm preparing a message for a ladies group in Burk's Falls at the end of May, and they asked me to speak about Hope. Good topic, especially with everything that is going on. It makes such a difference to have our hope in the Lord, and to know that God is in control. None of the happenings of this year have been a surprise to God, and we can rest in Him. God is good!

Let me know when and where you are speaking I will try and join you if that would be acceptable.  You have really gone through the ringer this year.  I have been thinking and praying for you and wondering how you were.

Even when life is at its worse, I find the fellowship here uplifting.  Betty continue to join in and we can support you and your family in prayer.  God Bless Sis!

Thanks Judy. I don't think I had realized how much time had gone by. And we were dealing with all of the teacher issues - I'm glad I'm retired, but we have 3 of our kids and spouses who are teachers, so this was affecting all of us. I'm so glad we don't face these things alone.

It will be at the Senior's building in Burk's Falls, above the library. There's a group of women (about 30) who meet once a month. It was started by my mother and my sister (who has the cancer). It's on May 27th at 7:30.

Larry since we are a non profit , the fee from re-homing the animals, is put right back into helping more animals. We do it all gratis than charge a $150 re-homing fee.

Marilyn, you need to stop telling us what you're doing.  After reading what you accomplished yesterday I had to take a nap to rest up.  And get rid of that skinny picture in your avatar!   :roflBig:

Betty, the last several months have certainly been trying for you and your family, with one major upheaval after another.  I assure you I will be keeping you in my prayers.   :aaah:

Betty I will see what I can do to get there.  I will let you know closer to the date.

This morning when I was here, there were only two new posts, so I'm gald to see that more were added later.

I was at Pat's at 7:30 this morning so she could color, cut and style my hair.  She wanted to do it early as she was going to Garden to look at new flooring.

I attended a fun concert last night over in Johnson.  It was "Three Guys and Thirty Instruments" and was a really fun and entertaining, also high-energy show.  If any of you want to check them out, you can google three guys and thirty instruments.  They played all thirty of those instruments--some I had never seen before!

We are finalizing our packing now, and it will soon be time to leave.  May God watch over each of us is my prayer.

Janet take your Camera and take a lot of pictures!

:ticked:  Just lost my post!  Rats!  Hit a wrong key, and poof!

Judy, you surely don't think I would leave home without my CAMERA!!   ;)

I had said a lot more but don't want to repeat typing it.  Sorry.

John is home.  This is the beginning of a beautiful weekend with Him.  The temperatures are in the 70's and we plan to work outside....this will be the first opportunity this year!

I pray every one has a good weekend.

Hi everyone.  It was a rainy night and is going to be a cold and rainy day today.  It was 41 degrees when I went to coffee.  I left a bit early so I could stop at Kroger's to get a couple of items for this afternoon when we will entertain a couple from our church who are coming to play cards.  This is something we haven't done much of for a long time as Pat hasn't felt up to it but she is looking forward to it today.  We will play for a couple of hours and then go out for dinner together.  That will be it for today.

Etta Sue, you would have missed out on the fun of finding that application if you had gone to the church website first.  :)  I am not familiar with that file extension.  It sounds like you had a busy but enjoyable day yesterday. 

Betty, your family and you and your husband have certainly had a rough time with illnesses and the damage from the ice.  I am sure you have hope for a better year this year, as do we, although so far it hasn't started but I know that God has provided and will continue to do so.

Marilyn, I have never heard of a rehoming fee but it makes a lot of sense.

Jeanne, I feel the same way of needing a nap sometimes when I read all that others are doing.  :)  I do well to do one or two things a day of any consequence. 

Janet, you all sure do have some nice events to attend in your area.  Hope you can check in during your trip and that you have a marvelous time and see some wonderful sights.

Judy, hope you and John don't overdo it on your first weekend outside this season.  Glad you are having some nice weather.  There sure won't be any outside work done around here this weekend with all the rain.   

My DIL, Charlene, and one of the twins, Audrey, and g-daughter, Makena, are in Michigan baby sitting  with the other twin, Carol's, kids (g-kids) so that Carol and Scott can attend his sister's college graduation from Ohio State University.  So...Tony is home alone.  He called me last night while sitting in his woods by a bonfire of an evergreen tree he cut down yesterday.  We talked 2 hours!!  Until 11pm.  Well, that is past my bedtime.

I slept late today even to my standards.  Let's just say there wasn't much of morning left!  I had cleaned the litter boxes and was headed to the kitchen when the doorbell rang.  Tony!  He brought his camera.  I showed him what HDR photos were on my PSPX5.  Now that he knows he can take bracketed photos, he wants to get software to make HDR photos.  Mud to everyone but Marilyn...probably!

Kitty just called.  I am going to her house and then to Pendleton for late lunch and get some softener salt...then she is going to help me put it in the basement! 

Larry the Re-Homing fee, is the cost of the adoption. Not realy like selling the dog but the monety goes for the cost  of the surgery and medications, immunizations etc that the dog has received be for being adopted.

Since our church is having Saturday night services now, as well as Sunday mornings, we decided to attend tonight.  So went to pick up Beth and went to church, then later went to eat with friends.  Nice evening.

I just came to check in here, will go now, see you in the morning, since we won't be going to church.  He preaches the same sermon for both services.

G'night!

Wow!  Quiet in the neighborhood since I posted two posts ago! 

I needed rock salt for the water softener so I went to get Kitty to go to Pendleton and Kitty was coming back here to help me get the salt to the basement.  When I got to Kitty's she had 4 bags on her front porch.  Bob gets them cheaper at Kokomo, north of here about an hour and is going this weekend to get more.  So I paid her for the 4 bags after we ate at Viejo something that means Large Ranch.  I drove by her house on the way home, we got the salt to the basement and I took her back home.

She asked me to come in and critique her clown.  Kitty is a painter and she was painting a clown in oil to take to the State Fair.  She likes my critiques since I tell her the truth!  Wow!  She is really good on this one! 

Then home for an evening of relaxation.

Today I run the projector system at church so I am ready to leave.

Time for a fresh start to a new week:  HERE (http://www.christianphotographers.com/community/index.php?topic=12616.0)