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Morning Devotional...

Psalm 44

In every emergency, God's people need at least three things.  They need to remember God's salvation in past emergencies, they need to express their present dependence upon Him, and they need to express their present emergency in the form of a prayer for help.

So it was for Israel.  Early in the morning, as the first item in the necessary sequence, the people were led to sing of the wonderful deeds of the God of Israel in past days.  They sang, "We have heard with our ears, O God, Our fathers have told us, the deeds You did in their days, in days of old."

Next in the sequence they were led to sing their dependence upon God in the present. They sang, "You are my King, O God; command victories for Jacob!  Through You we will push down our enemies."  Finally, for the third and final item, they were led to express honestly their current emergency as it looked to them. They sang, "But You have cast us off and put us to shame.  You do not go out with our armies."

In that same honesty they also had to confess that they didn't understand why God had seemingly deserted them. They sang, "All this has come upon us; but we have not forgotten You, nor have we dealt falsely with Your covenant . . . if we had forgotten the Name of our God, or stretched out our hands to a foreign god, would not God search this out?"

Finally, I think we can well imagine the pitch and volume of the song increasing as they were led to tell God in prayer what they wanted.  They cried out to Him, "Awake!  Why do You sleep, O Lord?  Arise!  Do not cast us off forever!   . . . Arise for our help, and redeem us for Your mercies' sake!"

This was a song for their nation, a song sung at the time of a national emergency - a cry for Israel's help.  

If we're honest about it, the status of the Church today calls for just such a response.  Is not the present experience of the Church one of deadness and of the need for revival?  Are not the world, the flesh, and the Devil attacking us?  Oh let us pray this prayer!  This is a time of need!
Al Moak


Here's a hymn that reflects these thoughts.  Just click to hear the music.





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Al:  Thanks for reminding us to be calm in any crises in  our lifetime - He has carried us so far already!  I like Showers of Blessings!

Don is still having hearing problems - we have looked online and this could take awhile to mend if at all.  It sounds tinny and he can't distinguish where someone is talking - he will go to another doctor when we get home. 

Leaving here about 4:00 A.M. because the first ferry is the only one that will take our reservation tomorrow and we just cannot sit down there for hours.  One person said they had sat for over 6 hours coming over - so many tourists. 

Hi everyone.  It is a beautiful day here in Georgia with sunshine and suppose to get up to about 90 degrees.  Everything is so green here this year that it is just beautiful to see at the beginning of August.

Pat has gone to her quilting event and won't be home until sometime this afternoon.  I have my usual men's luncheon at 1 pm and that should be the extent of the going for today.  I had fun at McDonald's this morning playing with my friend, Rod's, new IPod Touch.  It is really neat and may have to have one sometime.  He is really thrilled with it.

The housekeeper is here today and the yard people may be here later in the day so things should look pretty spiffy by late afternoon.

Janet, glad you were able to have a restful day and that the chair could be fixed.  Also glad that the system restore took care of your computer problem.

Carol,  my friend Rod did a lot of hammering in removing shelving that he wanted to bring with him to his new home and didn't wear ear protection.  It really did a number on his hearing.  I sure hope Don doesn't have the same experience.  Hope you make the ferry and don't have to wait a long time.  It sounds like you had a short night, although realize the time on your posting is probably Denver time.

Al, thanks for the devotional for this week.

Good morning!  Al, for sure, we need a great revival, and a great awakening in our country--right now!

Larry, I still cannot post here in CP on my desktop.  So I get to use my laptop often.  I have no idea what the iPod device you mentioned is!

Carol, hope you are having a good time, and that the weather and Don's hearing improve.

I have lots of things to tend to today:  Take Beth's pictures and hang in her room, do some banking, some more cleaning and sorting, have lunch with my painting friend, and lots more.  So I had best get to it!

I wish you all a calm day filled with the love of God.

Church was awesome.  We have a lot of people in our church with the last name of 'Zeller'...Marge being one of them.  Yesterday two male Zeller cousins and three sons of one of the cousins sang.  What harmony!  Then Ben, the minister's son, had returned from Nairobi, Kenya last week and we were shown a DVD of some of his photos.  Then Ben and Steve sat in chairs like they were chatting in a living room with Steve asking Ben questions about his experience in Africa.  Very good.  There is no way anyone could imagine what his experience in Africa was for 8 weeks unless you were with him.  God is good. 

Then eight of us ladies went for Chinese.  My favorite Chinese place.  Soooo goood. 

When I got home, I took a nap and was refreshed afterwards. 

Saturday after my fiasco with my cell phone, my computer acted like it had a mind of its own.  I, too, did a restore and now it is fine.  Must have been the Windows Update for me, too.  But I couldn't play one of my Mahjong games and uninstalled it.  Now I can't get it back in my laptop!  Oh,well.  I guess I will play other games if needed. 

Today it is sunny and a little overcast.  I must mow the grass this afternoon and this evening is council meeting at church. 

The weather has improved and not quite as hot now.  Can improve more without a problem.....

Carol, sounds like you have not had a 'happy holiday' here on the island.  That canon is loud....never knew anyone that got a hearing problem from it going off.  Did he stand right beside it?  Best to get another dr. as this person does not have much faith in the ones we have.  My SIL had both a gall bladder removed and a hernia operation, got sent home the next day, told it was not necessary to see a dr. unless there was a problem with stitches.  No check up or anything.....Spent three weeks off work from his business, was not even given pain medication.  Draw your own conclusions!

Janet, are you connected to the internet on your desk top?  You can phone your internet provider and have them check.  Many ways to fix the problem.....all require time and work .

Misty (cat) has gone nuts.  She is trying to kill anything small that moves in the garden.  Never done this before.  We have tried talk, chasing her away from birds, now are going to spray her with the spray nozzle on water hose....She is going to be one wet cat, which she hates, unless things change.  I can't keep her inside as she drives me nuts with her complaints.  Gad!

Etta Sue, Auslogics came out with an update to the program.  You might want to check, if not aware.
Larry, the Microsoft updates work fine on my computer.  Strange things are happening!

Time to go for a walk.  Pleasant Day/Evening and God Bless.

Hi All,

It's a beautiful morning-I think I'm ready for my granny nap though-but I think I really need to get out and go for a walk outside in the bright of the morning to help clear my groggly mind...

Al-we do need a revival-I believe its on its way...we need to stir things up and get excited about Jesus, God and fill our hearts with the love and joy that was meant to be towards God our Father and Jesus our Brother and to one another...Nice Devotional....

Carol where do you live-sounds like tourist country for sure...can't believe that Labour Day is right around the corner-with midsummer here...Does tourism it drop off then?

Larry-You and Pat sure keep yourselves busy...I admire that, I need to pray more for the renewing of my youth, .

Janet-sounds like your smooth sailing into home after Beth is back, how is she?

Etta-your still as bubbly as ever...

Liz-I had to laugh bout your kitty-we did that-and they didn't like the getting wet but they'd still sneak back to stock the birds and run when they see you coming...LOL.

Just wanted to say though I dont post often I do come into see how everyone's doing-Glad to see the uplifting spirits...

Jesus is Lord!!!

Juanita, Beth continues to do well.  Her huge wound is healing nicely.  I feel so strange, rather as I imagine Rip Van Winkle might have, after "missing" practically the whole summer.  But I am just picking up where I am and doing the best I can.  Do come and post as often as you can, I sure enjoy your posts.

I had to chuckle about Carol's remark about the tourists.  I have felt that way at times, even while being one of those pesky tourists!    Carol, hope you are having a good time in spite of the heat and the crowds.

Our nice cool weather has gone away, yesterday it was 106 early in the aftrnoon, so probably higher a little later.  Whew!

We had planned for a year to visit friends in N.Y., and now it seems it won't work out.  I'm sad about that.  We wanted to go in October.

Yes, Liz, the desktop is on high speed cable.  Our techies at Pioneer are pretty good but hard to connect with at times, and I haven't felt like I have the patience to wait on them just yet.  Meantime, for posting here I have my new laptop!

I see/hear the legislaters are sure getting their ears burned while on "recess."  Yes!  Tell them about it!  Don't ruin the best health care system in the world!!  I strongly believe any new system they try to foist on us, they should also have to be under themselves, not all high and mighty with their own plan.   

I thought, while isolated in Wichita, that when I finally got home, I wouldn't let all the stuff that cries to be done overwhelm me; now that I am home, I can't quite figure out how to make that happen.  When it needs done, and there isn't anyone but me to do it, how does that work?  Got any suggestions?

This is the day that the Lord has made, I WILL rejoice and be glad in it.

I can say 'I donated at the office!'  Doctor's office, that is.  Blood, that is.  Today was a fasting blood draw.  First time in a long time that I had to be stuck twice and I did my homework...I drank lots of water before going to the office.  In fact, when I walked, I sloshed!! 

Then I went for breakfast.  Was going grocery shopping but decided to come home where the restrooms were! 

Dark and gloomy here in Indiana.  Rained some while I was out but the pavement was dry here at home.  May miss us.  Ooops!  I went to Ivalou's and while I was there, it did rain a downpour for about two minutes.  But the pavement is dry again. 

I got the mowing done yesterday...today I have to run the sweeper!!! 

Did I tell you that Inky has eaten three of my Fish Oil capsules?  Now I have my organizers put up so she can't get them.

I don't think the fish oil capsules will hurt Inky, Etta Sue. I saw on the news where Indiana is getting a lot of storms at ;east that is how it looked on the  map they showed.

I have been making a lot of yogurt about every other night. I really like the homemade  yogurt much better than the the manufactured. Especially since is has only the ingredients that I put in ti. Skim milk, a little powdered milk and Organic Greek Yogurt or the Yomet brand cultures from the health food store.

Good Day from Whistler!  Man, is it every pricey here.  We got the hotel probably through Hotwire or Travelocity at a huge discount but the little things really add up.  $27 Canadian dollars per day just to park our own car and with a valet it would be more.  $15.00 per day to use their wireless.  No thanks, had to park our car but we carried the laptop to a "free" coffee shop this morning and enjoyed scones and lattes for farless than the $15.00.  It is smokey here as there is a fire on the other side of one of the mountains - we can smell smoke.  Trying to find out if there is any problem with the roads where we want to start back tomorrow via Montana. 

Sad to report that Don is still experiencing a great loss of hearing - just a tiny bit better yesterday.  TV is terrible for him and I have to communicate with anything we do.  Please pray - we are praying that it may at least go back to what he had before this and that was just poor hearing.  This is jumbled speech and music he hears.  Not good.  Everywhere you go, there is music. 

We were in the normal place by the cannon when it went off and am sure no one else was affected. 

Taking pictures today and probably walking to a nearby lake.  Take care all & thanks to all for your concerns and notes. 

In for just a moment as I rush off to the Dental Lab.  I have been reading all your discussion about computers and decided to follow Larry's lead and "restore" back to last week -- that would be BEFORE Microsoft did the sneaky update!  Well, that seems to have done the job for me.  At least partially.  I can make it around the internet better now, and stay at a website longer ... that's a good thing <a la Martha Stewart> 

Gotta go ....

Hi everyone.  I have a few minutes before getting started on a busy day. 

I see I didn't post here yesterday.  I was busy working on a project where I prepared 30 CDs of speeches I heard at the convention.  You can always buy the CDs while you are there.  They are not copyrighted so am making copies to share with several other people, including my son and daughter and my men's Monday luncheon group.

I treated myself yesterday and purchased a new IPod Touch.  My friend, Rod, just got one and he has let me use it the last two mornings at McDonald's and I really liked it.  It is really a computer and a lot of other things and with my ATT Internet account I can sign on at McDonald's, Starbucks (that isn't going to happen) and anyplace that has a free Wi-Fi site.  It has 8 gigs of space so can load many MP3s and other things on it and there are many applications, both free and paid, that are available for it.  It will probably be early next week before I get it.

I am glad to read that a couple of you were able to do a system restore and get your computers back into working condition.  I didn't have a problem with my desktop but sure did with the laptop. 

Carol, don't think I will be going to Whistler as those prices are unbelievable.  I was upset the other day to have to pay $8 to park for two hours at the doctor's office.

Janet, you asked for suggestions about the large number of things to saw that needed doing.  My suggestion is to make a list and set priorities and then start with the one with the top priority.  Do what you can each day and don't worry about the rest.  You may need to redo the priorities often but this helps me focus anyway rather than feeling frustration.  Eventually I get them all done or decide I didn't need them on the list to start.

Today is Bible Study with the pastor.  We are going to start studying the writing of Peter.  This evening I have a meeting and will have to miss choir practice.

Hope this is a wonderful day for you all.

Hi Everyone...

First of all, Carol, I'm so sorry about Don's hearing. This is truly awful.  I remember years ago that I went through something similar due to a very old airplane I was on (1970) to Northern Ireland and it was a propeller plane and not pressurized very well, and wow, I was "deaf" and painful for days and days after landing.  I had forgotten about this and you have sparked my memory in telling us about Don.  I will be praying for you both.  I'm so sorry.


And now, I apologize for not being in here.  On Sunday, I came home from the morning service and getting the oil changed in my car and lay down for a wee rest.  I slept longer than I planned and it was too late to go to the evening service.  Well, at about 6 pm, all of a sudeen, I heard such a clatter coming from the back door to the deck out from the kitchen and I then saw Geordie in what I thought was his "death throws" (if that is the word) and he had knocked all my plants off a shelve, and the garbage container was strewn over the kitchen floor and he was just in terrible shape.  I screamed out the open door for "Deb" next door (who couldn't hear me but the lady to the other side of me did and came running over).

She went and got Deb who was able to tell me that Geordie was having a very bad seizure.  This seizure lasted nearly 15 minutes (which is a terribly long one).

To make a long story short, we (Deb & I) ended up taking Geordie to the vet and he agreed on the seizure and put Geordie on phenobarbital and gave him a heft injection of valium.

We came home about 10 pm and he had seizures about every 2 hours during the night and the next day.  It's been a traumatic time.  I've not been in my bed since Sunday morning! 

Well, now I'm relieved to say that he's not had a seizure for over 30 hours and that's good but he's so terribly weak.  He is finding it difficult to support his body weight.  He's eating a bit better and seems happy but the weakness is causing him to fall over.

Yesterday I was trying to come to terms and accept the fact that maybe I may have to put him to sleep but will now wait for another day or so to do any more thinking on this topic as he's so happy right now.

Paul phoned today and I put him on speaker phone and Geordie was so happy to hear Paul's voice.

Anyway, please pray.  Geordie is loved by so many in so many different places in the world and is just a different kind of dog and seems to be owned by many.  God created him and I know that he loves me dearly and it breaks my heart for him to be going through this.

Now, this is probably more than you ever wanted to read but just wanted to share with you all as to why I haven't been in here.

Hello, everyone!

As you may have noticed, I have not been around in quite a while. This is because I spend a lot of time building websites, and I've found this to be a great hobby that I really enjoy. Of course this doesn't mean that I've dropped photography, in fact, I've taken lots of pictures recently which I plan to post later.

Pat, I'm sorry to hear that Geordie is not feeling well, I'll be praying for you both.

Larry Hanna, Do you have iTunes on your computer? If you don't, you will need to get it, because your new iPod touch won't work without it.

Carol, I hope Don's hearing gets better soon. I'll be praying for you guys as well.

If anyone is interested in seeing my website, click my signature. 
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Pat ~ So sorry to hear about Geordie!  I said a prayer right after I read your story. 

Yesterday when I went to see Ivalou she was using a cane!  Seems her left foot was hurting so bad she could barely put weight on it.  She had surgery on that foot 9 years ago and was trying to diagnose it herself.  It happened twice before but flexing her foot around stopped the pain.  This time it didn't.  But said if it wasn't better today she would call the doctor. 

Well, I got a call from her at 8am wanting me to come over.  Her foot was still hurting and when she put a cold cloth on it, it helped.  So I got some ice from my ice maker.  Living in the country, I put on a robe and went right over.  She woke at 4am and had to hobble to the bathroom.  Said the pain was so bad she didn't know whether to cry or puke!!  She called the Dr at 8:30 and asked to see the doctor.  2pm!  She said is there any chance I can get in sooner?  So we got to the doctor's office at 10am. The doctor thinks it is gout!  Better than what we were thinking...blood clot, infection, bones had shifted.  But we went for her to have x-rays on her foot to rule out a stress fracture. 

By then she was hungry so we stopped at KY Fried Chicken.  Bless her heart, I know she was in so much pain.  I did get Mom's walker from the garage and she said that sure helped but it still hurt!  Then off to get the RX at CVS.  She is to take 2 pills and then one pill every 6 hours.  I left her with more ice on her foot and her foot elevated on a wedge.  I will check her later...hopefully she will be much better and rested after a nap. 

So say a prayer for Ivalou while you are praying for Geordie, would ya?

Oh Pat I know you are beside yourself over  Geordie's seizures and what to do next. Are you laying next to him so you can watch over him all those  hours? I have faith that you will do  whatever it takes to keep him from suffering, and I can  just imagine the tears you have and are shedding. As we get older our pets are our children.

{{{{{{{{{huggz}}}}}}}Pat and Geordie.  

Praying for Geordie and Ivalou.

Oh Father, You have created wonderful creatures, and I surely do thank You for the dogs, horses, cats, etc. with whom we can even have a wonderful relationship!  Thank You for Geordie and for the years You've given him to  Pat.  Thank You, Father, for  the  relationship they've had and  that Geordie  has had with many others as well.  We are so saddened to  hear about his seizures and weakness.  Father, if it is Your best for all concerned, I pray You'll heal Geordie and  restore  him  to strength and joy.  If not, then I pray You'll strengthen Pat, and give her grace to  place him in Your blessed hands.  I don't  know  what You do with these wonderful ceatures after their death, but I know You do all things  well.  I join with my sister in the joy she's had in this special  gift to  her for these many  years.  Oh Father, I commit them both to Your blessed grace and  mercy through Jesus Christ our  Lord.

Oh, Pat, I am so sorry to read about dear Geordie!  It seems he has been a part of all of our lives for years now.  Remember when I would talk to him on the phone, and he always answered me?  What a darling dog.  I join my prayers with yours for this much loved dog's healing.  How old is he now? 

And Etta Sue, I pray that Ivalou's foot will feel ever so much better by morning!  Did the doctor give her a diet to follow, if he does think it's gout?  I have read that before, but about all I can remember is that you are to avoid green beans and cheese.

Beth continues to do well.  They will take her by ambulance to our hospital here on Friday morning for a CT scan, to make sure all leaks have stopped.  Then, if all is clear, they can take her off the antibiotics.

Today I entered (and WON!) the county Senior spelling bee!  That means my expenses will be paid to the state one in Salina in October.  It was fun.

Larry, thanks for your good advice.  I will do that, even though I have problems writing out my goals, and these are kind of the same things.  Great advice, though, so I must make Janet get on the ball and do that.

Hey there, Scotty Boy!  Good to see you posting again.  I will go have a look at your web site.

My youngest daughter called tonight.  Their German Exchange Student will be arriving on Saturday.  The whole family is so excited about Sasha's coming.  I pray they will all have a great experience.  They have been in contact via phone and email with Sasha and his parents for months already.

In our attempt to pare down and simplify, we are about ready to hit it hard again.  We just had a call inquiring about buying our big house....if it would sell, we would need to do even more getting rid of stuff.  It makes me tired just thinking aobut it. 

It was hot here again today.  But after all, it is August.

Hi everyone.  I have time this morning to write before heading out to coffee.  We are going to have a young 19 year old South Korean fellow join us at coffee.  My friend Rod and his wife sponsored this lads mother in some way through Precept Ministries (Kay Arthur's work) or college here in the US.  (I have forgotten the details.)  The mother and her son are here visiting for a few days after attending a conference in Chattanooga at the Precept Headquarters.  Probably two years ago Pat and I were invited to meet this outstanding women and her husband when the visited and we had a delightful evening. 

Pat, I am indeed saddened to read of the distress that Geordie has and is experiencing and that you are experiencing as a result.  I am sure you will make the right decisions in the days ahead in this difficult time.

ScottyBoy, I have put I Tunes back on my computer and loaded my music library into it.  I have been watching some tutorials on using the IPOD Touch as well as I Tunes.  Yesterday I started a project to get album covers associated with most of my music.  This is going to be a big job, but enjoyable one.  I still haven't heard when I will receive delivery of the IPOD Touch. 

Etta Sue, that foot pain that Ivalou is experiencing sounds terrible.  Hope the doctor was able to give her some medication that will stop or lessen the pain.

Janet, always good to read of the continue progress that Beth is making.  I have always found that after the decision is made to move or sell, or whatever, getting things done that need to be done have a way of happening.  The anticipation often is worse than the actual accomplishment.  Hope your house sells, if that is your desire. 

My schedule is light today and I welcome that as will be able to work along in an unhurried way.

Morning Folks Just sitting here reading the posts for a few minutes with Judy sitting at my shoulder itching to get on CP herself.

Looks like I'm going to be home for a while until the problems with my health clears up. Its on the mend but will take some time so we just give it to the Lord to deal with in His timing. He has already revealed to me the need for me to be home to deal with some other things happening in our family at the present time. It always gives me a sense of awe how when we allow God to lead us and just follow, everything works for good. There is no doubt that His timing is perfect, but we all to often tend to try and bring God to our level and try and tell Him what we want, expect and require. Then expect Him to deliver according to our demands. We need to practice the quiet spirit and follow His lead.

Beautiful day here today. The sun is shining, but there is a chance of some rain this afternoon. We need to go into town shortly to see a specialist and then do some other things while we are there. Will check back in tonight.

Gods Blessings Bonesy

Morning all 

Pat John and I were wondering how old Geordie was?

John has said everything else.

Bonesy - you're so right.  We very often place our expectations upon the Lord, but His plan is very, very much better.  And it will be in your case.  May He make His presence and blessing very much yours as you loll (!) around home for a few days.  But I also pray for your healing and your walk with Him through Jesus our Lord.

Thank you all for the prayers.

Ivalou is somewhat better today.  At least she can put her weight on her foot but it still hurts when she has to lift it.  So she slides her foot along when she walks.  The only thing that was told of her to not eat was red meats.  Uh, we had grilled cheese last night and Barb brought green beans to her today.  Hmm! 

Today was trash day so I got both of our trashes and got them to the road.  Then we chatted over coffee.  We decided that Subway was a good lunch so I got foot-long subs for both of us...now we have supper also!  Ivalou said today that she wonders what widows do when they don't have a sister next door.  I have wondered that also.  It's great to know that someone is next door that will drop anything and everything to give you a hand when needed.  It seems I am long overdue in paying her back for times when she has helped me.  I thank God that I am able to help her. 

She is resting now on the family room couch and watching TV.  She said if she needed me she would call. 

I am tired but it is a good tired.  I am blessed with a loving sister!

Kitty said she thought about seeing if I wanted to go swimming.  That sounds good if I were already there but to get there sounds tiring so I think I will stay home. 

Pat:  Geordie is just a beautiful dog and such a great companion and I am so sorry to hear of the heartbreaking time he is going through now as well as your stress in watching and caring for him.  Thank you for your note on Don's hearing problem and it is good to know that these things can mend themselves.  He is very disturbed most of all because of the distortion in what he hears.  He feels exhausted by trying to hard to listen and has been driving which just exhausts him even more.  We now have a couple of days to rest in Montana with oldest son & family - before heading home.  Take care of yourself too!

Scottyboy:  I have not seen your post in some time.  Thank you for considering Don in your prayers.  We will go home and find a hearing expert just to make sure something can't be missed.  I do hope all is well with you.

Etta Sue:  Gout is very painful, so I have heard.  Like Janet mentioned, there are some no-no's on what a person can eat in their diet so I would certainly look up that list and stop all of the wrong things.  Sorry for Iva Lou's pain and I am glad that she got right in to the doctor. 

I spotted a bear with twin cubs this morning while across the Canadian border then a buck and two does separately on my drive - they were in Idaho.  Don was able to sleep while I drove but awakened when I had to really slow down once.  The speed limit is 70 mph in the states - just nuts because there is no way it should be that fast with wildlife and narrow roads in the mountains.  Skid marks and crosses should be evidence that the speed should be changed.  It was wonderful see the mama bear as she sat quietly on the steep hill and was watching traffic before taking the cubs across the road and down to the river.  They are so cute. 

Larry:  We had a super deal on the two nights at Whistler but parking - wasn't that too high for regular people?  Can you imagine what it will be like at Olympics?  They have made it into another Aspen.  I will thankfully watch everything at home on t.v. and yes, it has to be one of the best places ever chosen for the winter games.  Love to watch ski jumping. 

This is much too long.  Thinking of all of you.  Take care.

Well, I am awake and it is 8:30 here in Polson, Montana and it is now raining cats and dogs.  Or, could it be bears and cougars?  I don't think I can make it to the car to get my rain jacket right now.  Slept well and very long.  We are so thankful for this break before returning home in which will be another two-day drive.  My DIL is next to me, working on her computer with the office staff in Denver.  Isn't technology interesting?  Sometimes, she has even answered her cell phone and helped them while drifting on the boat.  That still is amazing to me. 

Just read about Judy B's hubby and I sure hope the medical pros find the exact cause of his leg situation.

Our son will be flying back from Seattle today and driving here.  They sure go to a lot of effort to take a vacation.  Last night, we sat on the porch and looked over at the lake while watching the dog hunt grasshoppers.  Peaceful and quiet here.  Today, I want to get to the little quilt shop and a two of the thrift stores are super nice plus there are cherry stands to stop by besides a regular grocery store.  This weekend is a car show. 

Wake up everyone - or have a good night wherever you may be now. 

Everyone must be out and about.  Only Carol has posted since I posted yesterday.  Edit:  I see Carol has posted twice since I posted yesterday!  Wake up, Everyone!!!

Ivalou is much better today.  In fact, she has been dusting since her family is coming from Ohio tomorrow for our FROGGS event.  FROGGS stands for Friends and Relatives Of Grandma and Grandpa Stevenson (my Mom and Dad).  We all go back to the woods and have a great time getting to know each other again and eating hotdogs and brats roasted on an open fire!  Wiener roast!!  So good! 

I have been cleaning.  My bathroom is super clean and I am sweeping the rest of the house.  I am preparing for Bible Study here the 20th.  I know that is a few days away but I need to clean anyway!  Maybe that's why us women have meetings at our homes so we get that deep cleaning done!

Not much of anything else happening around here.  Bright and sunny.  A very nice day in Indiana. 

Praying for all of your concerns.  God knows them.

Hi everyone.  It is going to be a hot one today-up to 94 degrees.  The humidity is also high.  After I got home from the senior center and then walking at the gym I had to make a quick trip to the post office and the library and now plan to stay in the rest of the day. 

Because the the financial difficulties in our county, the library is cutting back to being open only 5 days a week and shortening their hours from 9-9 to 10-7.  Usage has gone way up during this recession but they just don't have the funds to maintain what we had.  They are talking about cutting postal service to 5 days a week, which probably is a reasonable idea.  Sure good to read that Ivalou is feeling better today.

Etta Sue, I think you hit the truth when you said having the ladies in is the push to clean up the house.  Do women go around and look for things that need to be cleaned in other people's homes?  I sure don't think that men do this.

Bonesy, I certainly agree with your comment concerning God's plan for our lives and things happening in God's time for us.  Glad you are feeling better and will have a few days at home now.



Carol, it sounds like you are at a very restful and peaceful place and hope you and Don can revive yourselves for the last leg of your journey home.

Carol, it sure sounds like a lovely trip you're on.  I'd love to be a "fly on the wall" and enjoy it with you.

I'm awake, Etta Sue!  Not much sleep while caring for Geordie.  He's eating well and he's seemingly quite happy.  He likes to walk but standing still or drinking water is another story.  He just doesn't have the balance.  I think that when he had his first massive seizure last Sunday that there was some damage to his brain.  But we're hanging in there.

Carol, I'm glad to see that it has apparently quieted down from the first half of your trip.  Hope you get rested and enjoy it.  Pat - I pray our Father will grant you special grace relative to Geordie.  Larry, I'm glad I don't live down your way - I  could never take all that heat & humidity.

Please pray for me.  We have a fellow in our church who is divorced and has his little 4-year-old girl to raise by himself.  He is a former navy seal.  He's on partial disability.  He had been into pot, drugs in general, alcohol, etc., so he needs to completely recover from all that.  He had quite a few debts, fines, etc. when he first came to us.  I've tried to specially befriend him, provide his transportation needs (doesn't have a car, still owes fines in a number of places), etc.  He's gotten to the point where he's been able to pay off a couple of debts.  He's got a lot of pressing needs to get dental work done, and he's got a foot that's real bad.  

All this said, he's gotten to the place that he's discouraged at not having any money to do  the things he wants to do, and he's just plain frustrated.  The result is he's talking about giving up, going back to his former lifestyle.  Says he had more money then.  He did  have more, because he was selling pot.  But if he gives up he's going to quickly be only a step or two from  the end of  his life, and he's not going to keep his little girl.  Last time he called me he couldn't seem to stop and listen  at  all.  Please  pray that I'll have patience, 'cause I think I'm about out of it.  I think I may just "read the riot act" at him next time.

Pray for Wesley and little Noelle.

I'm awake too Etta Sue, I was here bright and early to read but did not post. I had a Dr. appointment this morning and Keith left at 6:30 on a business trip to Lincoln county school district, then on to Portland to visit his sons for the weekend, I am  taking care of all the 2 cats and my 2 dogs.  Fritzy keeps walking across my keyboard to get to the window sill where he likes to sit and look out side.  "Kitty TV"

I am back from my Dr appointment, everything in my blood tests was normal. He did prescribe a anti inflammatory for me has any of  you ever had Voltaren the generic is Diclofemac D/R? I will only take it as needed for the pain in my hand. I go to the Orthopedist on Monday.

My Dr. also wants to schedule me for a colonoscopy, I told him I would think about it and lets get all these other appointments over with first. I have a mammo on the 17th then I need to go have a Dexascan too.

I am going to spend my weekend working on my PSP lessons as I have really slacked off  these last few weeks.

Al:  You are most certainly in my prayers.  There is one thing I have read about (and I hope this does not apply to your needful friend).  The fib most told by men is that they are former Navy Seals.  I don't know why but when you wrote about him, I felt like I should let you know that it is something a lot of men tell to impress people.  I send my prayers for you, especially little girl and her father. 

Etta Sue:  It just sounds like you and all of your relatives and friends have a great gathering to celebrate friendship and relations in the family.  That is just so nice. 

Pat:  We really love coming to Montana and from here can see the sky for miles and miles.  Hugs to you and special hug to Geordie the wonderful pal. 

Marilyn:  Don't put off the colonoscopy! 

Don's hearing has not improved - must get home next week and make appointments. 

Carol - I'm glad to say that Wesley was indeed a seal.  He just got approved for his veteran's rights recently, so that he now has medical.  His disability was also based on his service time.  But - thanks for sending that along.

We are having cooler weather here on the island and it feels real good!  My hope is that it doesn't turn into an early fall.....

Not many posts so thought I would come and say 'not much to say.'
Had a couple of email invites this morning to pay visits to friends.  Think I will accept invitation to visit upisland and see the Sandcastle Contest.
www.parksvillebeachfest.ca    It is quite impressive.  Will hold off on visit to Seattle until spring. 

Glad that you are enjoying cooler weather on your holiday, Carol.  Sorry that Don is still having trouble with his hearing.  You are right about Whistler being expensive.  It has been a 'high end' vacation spot for many years.  Playground for the wealthy.  My SIL's sister opened a landscaping business after UBC and made many a million.  Her husband ran all the parks and is involved in the Olympics.  They are the kind of people who get to afford the Olympics.  The rest of us stay home and watch on TV.  Also spend years paying for the darn thing by way of taxes.  Word is that it will be a mild winter and artificial snow will be used......

Pat, I feel badly for you and your wee dog. 

Janet, congrats. on the Spelling Bee win. 


Remember folks needing prayer and hope you can reach that fellow Al and keep him from more mistakes.

Pleasant Day/Evening and God Bless.

Liz

Carol, I love the "big sky country" of Montana, too.  Haven't been there in many years, though.  Sure hope Don's hearing clears up, I know that has to be so frustrating for him.

Pat, I hope "our" Geordie is doing better by now, and I'm glad he is happy and doesn't seem to be in pain.  Hugs to him.

Al, I will pray for Wesley and little Noelle.  What will she do, where will she go, if he slides back into his old sinful ways?  So sad for her, and no fault of her own.  I can sure understand your getting to the point of reading him the riot act!  Maybe that's what he needs, to shock him into realizing what he is contemplating doing.

Liz, thanks you so much--you're the only one who mentioned my winning.    I looked at the photos on the page you gave the link to, and boy! How I would love to see those sand sculptures.

Larry, it was 98 here today and windy.  I was so glad not to be working out in that.

I went to the care home at 8 this morning so I could take photos of Beth's wound again and see how it measured.  It continues to heal.  The ambulance crew came to get her, took her over that few blocks to the hospital, she had the CT scan, then back to the home.  I had to be on hand to sign papers for her. (I have her Durable Power of Attorney, as she cannot write any more.)  The young man with the ambulance told her she sure looked a lot better than the last time he saw her.  She asked when that was, and we learned he was on the crew that took us from the hospital to the airport the day she was flown to Wichita.  She told him she feels 99.99% better now than then, too! 

Just as I was leaving the hospital, Darrel called and was leaving for Garden to finish an installation, so I went with him to help.  I save him lots of trips up and down the ladder, and in and out to the car.  Then we ate at Applebee's and came home--and took a nap!

Morning All. Just taking a few minutes to share some thoughts before our day begins here. Judy and I will be doing some preserving of produce we picked from our garden yesterday and then off to a grandsons birthday party this afternoon.Its a beautiful day herein the north today, ideal for going fishing. The girls decided they were camping in the back yard last night and keep coming into the house for provisions. I keep teasing them if they want to camp they need to forage from nature. However they are not into roughing it. I guess I overdid it yesterday a bit with my feet and leg. experiencing some discomfort today. Suppose I need to learn to slow down and give it time, which I find hard as it goes so much against my nature. Thank you all for your many prayers. They have been a great comfort to both me and Judy, and we pray God will direct the Doctors as they continue to search for a solution to to the problem. The waiting game and the not knowing can be a bit trying at times. However we trust the God will deal with this in His time and way and we just need to let Him do His perfect will.
Anyway going to run for now. Things to do and people to see. You all have a blessed day. Bonsey

Thinking of you, John.  I'm so sorry you're going through this.

We'll keep praying.

Good day everyone.

I have been working in the garden, and all my back and leg muscles are stiff and sore.  A hot shower and some Tylenol will help that.  We have beans peas to do down.  Our strawberry plants are really sending out leaders, if we have some hot weather we will fave a feast of berries.  It hasn't been hot enough though to date.  The lawns need mowing again, Doug uses our mower for his lawns too.  He brought it back last night.  I will wait till Monday to mow, as we have enough on for today.

I am following each of the prayer requests, know that I am praying for each of you.

Pat how are Judy and Norm?

Have a great day
Judy

Haven't spoken to Judy or Norm, Judy.  Must call them.

Hi everyone.  Just back from coffee.  We do not walk on Saturday as the gym at the church is closed.

I got my new iPod Touch yesterday afternoon and have had great fun downloading free programs for it and loading music on it.  It immediately found my home network and I can use the Safari browser (Apple browser) to surf the Internet.  Since I use Gmail it accesses my e-mail and I use the Google documents for a lot of things so those are available as well.  I will be working with me more today.

A few days ago I got a $25 Visa gift card so decided to convert it to a $25 ITunes gift card as there are some applications plus and newer operating system that I want to get and can use the gift card for that purpose.  

It is going to be another hot day here.  I have a commitment this morning but after that expect to stay in where it is cool.  

Al, you have a delicate situation on your hands.  Often people pay little attention to what someone else says and have to make decisions for themselves as to how to live their lives.  It sounds like the man has it tough.  

Janet, just an oversight on my part not commenting on your winning the spelling bee.  That is quite an honor and I am sure you will do well at the State level.  Who knows we may see you on TV sometime at the national level.  The last two years I have watched the National Spelling Bee for youngster on TV and am amazed at the words these kids know.  

Marilyn, I agree with Carol that you should not put off the colonoscopy.  It is something most people dread but involves only a few hours of preparation and the procedure (if they put you under sedation) isn't at all bad.  It could save your life.

Hope this is a wonderful day for you all.  I am looking forward to each moment of today.

Larry and Carol I have decided that after I get all these other  medical things taken care of I will have the colonoscopy. I want to get my left hand cared for first in case I have to have the surgery and end up in a cast. I have a mammogram coming in the 17th and  I am to go in for the DexaScan  soon too. (Bone Density test). Oops I already told y-all that I am repeating myself.   

I slept so good last night from about 10 PM until 5:15 AM. I didn't even wake up once.  The animals have been fed and I am enjoying my 2nd cup of coffee about to get my 3rd. I think I will bake a carrot cake later. I am not doing much of anything today except to work on some more PSP lessons and walk the dogs later too.

Today is FROGGS!  And it is going to be wonderful.  The weather is co-operating!  Overcast with more sun than clouds.  Suppose to get near 90 degrees and there is a wonderful breeze that will blow the smoke away!  We are only having our hot dogs/brats and snacks to share.  Not a big meal but maybe we will eat more hot dogs/brats that way!  It is the getting to see each other again that counts.  I must remember to take my little camera!!! 

Yesterday was a great day of house cleaning.  When I was with Ivalou at the doctor's office, I told the doctor that my muscles have been hurting some and I was wondering if it was my cholesterol meds that she doubled.  She said don't take them for a week and see.  Even one day I seemed better.  I have sore muscles but now I think it is from cleaning, sweeping and mopping.  Before I didn't even want to do housework!  Funny, how your mind works. 

And when I read Liz mentioning the Spelling Bee...I thought...Uh, oh!  I forgot to mention that to Janet!  Great accomplishment, Janet! 

And Marilyn...glad you explained DexaScan.  Bone density I know but didn't know the DexaScan word. 

Everyone!  Just know that you are in my prayers for all your praises and concerns.  Love you all!

I'm here, too.    My yard was getting so overgrown and the shrubbery was looking like a wilderness so I got out there last evening and started lopping!  I had managed to trim back a lot of the ivy and was working on a small tree when my neighbor came out.  By then my face was flashing red neon and I was really huffing and puffing.  I was trying to get the tree/bush down to where I can reach it.  It was just out of reach on the top and I was about to give up when Laura said "Let me try"

She's no taller than I am, but she started whacking away.  Before long the tree was at a manageable height and I had trimmed my Rhodys and pulled a couple weeds.  That was in the "front" or street side of my place.  I now have a huge pile of limbs out by the street for pickup on Monday.

This morning I have vacuumed the inside and been out in the back (lake side) doing the same type of work.  I'm resting now, to let my face cool off and my back calm down, then I will be going to the store and will try to wash windows and my car later this afternoon.  Or maybe not.

My arthritis is screaming and I think I'm about ready to run out of steam.   

Way to go Jane.  You got a lot done.  A quick suggestion.  Have a hot bath with Epsom salts.  I was told that the salts takes the lactic acid out of the muscles and eases the soreness and stiffness.  It has worked for me.

Janet Sorry I didn't mention the win.  Way to go!!!

I have my veggies done and picked a few for Doug and Meg.  Made the jam, I use about 1/2 the recommended sugar.  It has turned out well as well.  I am canning the rest of the peaches, and the next will be pears.  Our local grocery store sells peaches, tomatoes and pears by the basket, in season.  Yummy to eat as well.  I missed cherries, and that is my favourite, but will make a small batch of choke cherry jam soon they are just about ripe.  In September we will be picking elderberries.  Pat like some pie?

Got to run, it is our grand son's birthday party and we have been invited.  I still need to wrap the gift.

Have a great afternoon/evening.
Judy

JANET!!!!  Way to go.  I had to go back through the posts to see about your win.  I'm afraid that I've missed a lot this week in here due to caring for Geordie.

Sure, Judy!  Would love a pie!

Hello to the rest of you.  Larry, I'd like one of those
iPods

Yes, Janet .... That's really impressive to win the Spelling Bee ... I read about it and thought I replied but, when I looked back, I see it must've gone out into cyberspace ...    It was during the time I was having trouble staying online and/or moving from one screen to another ... i.e., the reply box.  Sorry. 

Shu fly pie - fly the pie to this guy!

Thanks, y'all....see what a little nudge will do!    I won the county spelling bee last year, but we went on that European River Cruise, so the runner-up went to state in my place.  I just wanted to see if I could win again! 

It's been a busy day, but not a lot accomplished.  We went to the farmers' market this morning and picked up a few things, took Beth a bierock we got there.  I did all the laundry and put it away, did a little cleaning, we ate some lunch.  This afternoon I worked on an album/scrapbook I am calling Beth's journey through the valley.

There is to be a carry-in dinner after church tomorrow to celebrate the pastor's birthday.  In the afternoon I want to go to Hugoton to visit my kids.

Has the new challenge been announced yet?  Sure were some cute pictures in the last one!

Al I have enough flies that, I can do that....I sho them all the time!  I will make a shofly pie, when are you coming north to join us in eating it!

Pat you will remember Granny Stephen would make that...one of our Dad's favs!

We had home made taco's for dinner, with ice-cream sandwich cake for dessert.  WOW it was delicious.  Those boys are really sweethearts. I really miss seeing the other grands.  That is in God's hands.

John is getting us a slice of bread, with jam, So much better on home made bread!!  Would you like some?

I am tired tonight.  The dogs are out and when they come in we are heading to bed.

Night all

Good Morning Everyone.

This is the day that the Lord has made Let us Rejoice and be Glad in it!!!

We had a great time at FROGGS!  Even though at 5pm Tony and I were the only ones back there, 25 people finally showed up.  I like the idea of hot dogs/brats and snacks.  May start at 3pm (maybe they will be there by 5pm) until dark.  When it gets dark back there, it is DARK!  No street lights in the woods!  I was back in the house and everything put away by 10pm. 

I am all ready for church.  Ivalou isn't going.  There is 11 in her house this morning. 

I will be back later for you know what!

I know it is early but it seems late to me.  So here is a new slate for a new week....follow by clicking here.