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"And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors." Matthew 6:12 (NIV).


In this age of financial crisis, newspapers are full of articles about loans being "forgiven." The debt loads of entire nations are sometimes forgiven. There's talk about student loans being forgiven, or homeowners being forgiven for unpaid mortgages, or institutions forgiven that are too big to fail. But one financial expert warned that there's no such thing as free forgiveness. Someone has to bear the burden of the debt.

Regarding our sins and souls, Jesus paid it all. We come to Him with a load of guilt and confess all our regrets. We tell Him about that moment of foolishness that causes shame. We admit the stupid thing we did or said. The tragedy we caused. The hurt we inflicted.

As we confess it, He forgives it. As we lay it before Him, He washes it away with the blood of Calvary. What God has forgiven should no longer have dominion over our minds. In the blood of Jesus, we have relief from our captivity of guilt and fear. It's nailed to the Cross and we bear it no more.

 

There is unspeakable joy...for the person who knows release from guilt and the relief of forgiveness.
Stuart Briscoe

Thank you, Jeanne, for the new Thoughts.  Wonderful thoughts!

I am all ready for church.  Looks like it is going to be a dreary day with no sunshine. 

Yes...Super Bowl Sunday.  I wouldn't be in that crowd if someone flew me down there and set me in the middle of it!  I think about everyone in my family but Ivalou and I have been to downtown Indy to take in all the festivities that have been going on this week in Indy!  Nope!  Not me!  They even have a zip line for people and the tickets are sold out before an hour is up after opening!  All kinds of celebrities are arriving.  Nope.  Not me.  Wouldn't go there for any amount of money! 

And yes!  It is bringing money to Indianapolis and the businesses in Indy but I am sure they spent lots of money getting ready for the crowd!  I am so glad I don't listen to the news.  I would be  :crazy:

Janet, after reading about your accident, I was thinking that Darrell couldn't have been a super driver to get through all of that and not turn over the vehicle.  I think Jesus was at the wheel.

A word about today's devotional. 

When I first received it, I thought "Thank you Lord, that I don't have a problem with that."  Then I heard "Oh, yes?  What about....?"  And a long ago incident came to mind - complete with all the original anger and hurt and resentment!  :o  Unfortunately, the person involved has long since passed away and I can't confront them, but I can, and do, plead for forgiveness in my heart.

Hi everyone.  After a rainy night the sun finally peeped out for a little bit a few minutes ago.  It was warm yesterday and suppose to get up to 69 degrees here today.  After a really full day yesterday I expect to have a much quieter day today.  We plan on attending church and perhaps will eat out but that will be it as far as I know.  I will watch the Super Bowl this evening as don't want to miss any of the hype.  Can you imagine spending $3,800 for a ticket to the game?  Where have our priorities gone?

Etta Sue, don't forget that your GPS system will also help you find lodging and eating places and gas stations on your trip.  Nice to see you are getting excited about your trip.  It looks like you are coming down to spring weather.  Our flowering trees are beginning to flower out and I saw daffodils blooming yesterday.  It is about a month too early but guess the ground is warm enough to trigger the growth. 

Ruth, nice that your husband and son enjoy doing the same thing.  The idea of ice fishing would not be the way I would want to spend a day.  Do they have a heated covering while they fish?

Carol, the local quilt shop just up the road is in the process of closing as have several others in the area.  Was that the Electric Quilt program?  Pat has had a couple of versions of it but don't think she has ever designed a quilt with it.  She is currently making a bed runner.  She is enjoying having a membership in Pam Bono's website where she gets a lot of quilting ideas and patterns. This lady and her husband were at the quilt retreat that Pat attended two or three years ago and she showed many of her quilts and talked about her patterns and the tools that her husband has designed (which were, of course, for sale.)

Judy, isn't it very unusual for your not to need a coat in early February where you live?  Glad you and John were able to share a nice meal out.  We ate out last night with our four friends and had a delicious meal.  They all liked the place where we ate, which is just down the road from us and where Pat and I have been several times.

Jeanne, thanks for the new Thoughts for the Week to get us off to a good start.  Someone must always ultimately pay the price.  I am so thankful that I have Christ in my life.

Jeanne, in reality the only people we really hurt when we harbor anger and resentment in our minds and hearts is ourselves.  We may never forget but we can certainly forgive and then no longer dwell on the thing that has caused us so much anguish and pain.  I have come to the conclusion that I can only be hurt when I allow myself to be hurt by someone else's words or actions (not thinking of physical attacks which would obviously have physical pain associated.)

Good Sunday morning to all who enter here ...  :)  I have been up for a few hours already and come here to see what's going on in your corner of the world.

Jeanne, I appreciate your Thoughts for this week ... as Larry says, we only hurt ourselves when we harbor ill feelings toward anyone or anything.  I can "remember" there were times when I was hurt or something unpleasant happened, but I don't remember any of the details any more. I'm sure glad about that.  God has, indeed, washed it all away.   :thumbsup:

I wish you all a wonderful day with the Lord ... enjoy it whatever you choose to do.  Be safe, be warm and be healthy.

Janet, I that sounds similiar to what happened to me a couple years ago.  I was driving along, minding my own business, when it seemed my car suddenly had a mind of its own.  Took off across the side of the highway and across a bit of grassy dirt and through a barbed wire fence!  A tow truck driver said the tie rod was broken ... I never got that judgement from the insurance adjuster, though, because they assessed the car to be totalled before even checking underneath.  :-\  I was using cruise control at the time, and I have never wanted to use it since then.  I'd just as soon have my speed under my own control!   :)

I'll probably have the Super Bowl on today ... it's on a local channel ... I may not spend much time sitting in front of the TV, though.  I usually have the television on and end up in another room (like here at the computer) and only listen to whatever is happening.  If something really exciting comes along I'll go in and take a look, though.   :)

Hello it has been a while since I have been on.  The doctors have ran me ragged.  I am on a heart monitor for 30 days.  They are thinking congestive heart failure due to the pitted edema.  I have permant inner ear damage.  Which is a blessing because now I know what that problem is.  I have been praying for you all. 

Gord I pray your hand is better.

Larry I to have saw our buttercups coming way to early this year.  The bugs are going to get us this summer I am afraid.

I would love to thank everyone who voted for my niece who came in 2Nd place in the mini challenge.  Isabella Cassetta is a Diva Queen in her own catergory with three older brother the oldest 22, 18, 13, and Isabella is 2.  Needless to say she gets pretty much what she wants.  Thank you for voting for my nephew Aden he got the honerable mention, he is one of 6 that was adopted by my sister in law and brother in law .  Five of the children are brother and sister and 1 is well their brother. 

A virtuous woman will recognize that her worth has nothing to do with appearance, talent, or the opinions of others.  She will recognize that her past belong in the past and a future awaits her.  A virtuous woman has worth far above rubies because she recognizes that her worth comes from who she is in Christ.

     Come, all you who are thirsty, come to the waters.  Isaiah 55:1a

Good afternoon, friends,

Well, it was a good service at church today, and then we went to a local fish restaurant for lunch. Great prices and the food's excellent.

Now, I must go across town to pick up something for the old house. So, better get off line and head that way.

Love to everyone,
Ruth Ann

Jeanne:  Thank you for today's thoughts on forgiveness.  We can always be reminded that it is better to put retaliation thoughts out of our mind and live with the peace of forgiveness.  After all, we are forgiven each and every moment with our eternal Grace.

Church was a little different today.  The pastor had taken a muscle relaxer for his back was out and he did give a lovely sermon, which he said would be short - then, he forgot to have the ushers take an offering until someone went up and reminded him - he was embarrassed but should not be at all.  He had to leave and couldn't lead bible study but we can't stay anyway because Don can't hear anything in bible study - Don only hears the person on the microphone hooked up to the ear receiver and that works so well.  We are so very thankful for that technology. 

Larry:  I will search the name of Pat's quilt lessons. 

Our children have sent us pictures of the snow piled 10 feet high in a drift that is in our block.  Power is still on - there is underground power in the area and it only went off once in three years and that was a blip in the system.  All the dogs are having a really fun time in the snow! 

I can't believe that I watched the Super Bowl!!  Great game.  Well, I did fall asleep and woke up just as Madonna was singing but the second half was a good half.  I do believe Indy did a good job sponsoring the Super Bowl.  News around here says it has been a very safe week or two celebration.  Someone said they went downtown Saturday and it was shoulder to shoulder.  Glad I wasn't in it.  Also I didn't go to church for Soup and the Big Game.  I had a 'J' night the night before and figured I would take a nap. 

Well, this time tomorrow morning I should be on the road.  Things are getting done and tied up.  Jane came yesterday afternoon and she knows how to take care of the furgirls.  And I am glad I went to church.  I forgot that tonight is Council Meeting.  An hour or so chunk out of my time.  But we don't have to leave as early as I plan.  We don't have to stay in Georgia tomorrow night.  We don't have to be at Kaye Don's Wednesday night.  So I am praying for patience and calmness. 

Yes, I know I can find motels on the GPS's but it's hard to re-train sometimes.  Seems easier to pick up the book, turn to the town and find a lodging!  I will have two GPS's.  TomTom and Droid.  So I do have a back up plus an old triptik and an atlas!  I love maps!!

Today is going to the DDS and getting my new partial.  Then Taco Bell for lunch.  Then fill up the car up with gas hoping the prices have gone down since the Super Bowl is history today!  I couldn't believe how high just for the fans to spend more money! 

Then I want to do some laundry and pack.  Then the council meeting and then watch 'The Bachelor'!  Hope I can sleep tonight!

Marilyn, I wished you Happy Birthday on FB today.  My notification said today is your birthday...you said tomorrow is...I think you should know better than FB but since I may not be online until evening, I wished you a happy birthday today.  Just make it a great day! 

Etta Sue...you are right...I don't believe it!  You actually watched the Super Bowl!  Yes, it was a great game and I was pulling for the Giants. 
I hope you and Ivalou have a good trip and enjoy being with your brother and wife in Florida.  That is a lot of miles though, and hopefully you two won't get too worn out.  We used to travel like that, but those days are gone now.  When do you expect to be back home?

Janet, I am so glad that you and Darrel were not in a serious accident when the car hydroplaned.  That is such a dangerous thing, and deadly.  My brother lost a grandson when his little pickup hydroplaned in Little Rock a couple years ago.  It was raining and he had just gotten off work at a hospital and was going home.  The most awful thing happened to his mother...she also works at that hospital in the trauma emergency dept and received a message of an incoming DOA.  When they gave the name, it was her son.  How terrible that was for her. 

Happy Birthday to Marilyn, I hope you have an enjoyable day.  My hubby is having a birthday this Thursday, and he will be 89.  No party planned though, as he is in a hospital bed now and has not left this room in nearly a month.  His daughter from near Dallas is coming to see us though, and maybe his two sons can come after work Thursday.  They both live at Amarillo, just slightly over 100 miles away.

JudyB, thank you for the hymn "Just a closer walk with thee".  I have a recording of my son singing that song at church, when he was in high school.  He passed away less than a year ago, from a stroke at age 50.

Good morning to all who check in for a visit here today.  I cannot start calling names as I would surely forget someone, but I do appreciate all your posts and greetings on CP. 

Blessings,  Janice

Here it is the start of a new week.  Yesterday proved very interesting, we had the arrival of a visitor which we were expecting then soon after they left we had surprise visitors - lovely then before they left our son and a friend arrived for a short visit. It sure seemed like a busy afternoon.

Larry:  The fellows have a heated shelter for ice fishing and this time time they brought home enough perch for approx. 4 good meals.

Today is the start of putting drops in my Aunts eye - she is to have cataract surgery on Wed of this week.   Because of her age I have concerns but trust & pray all will be fine.

So far we have had a day filled with sun. The most we have had in several days.

Hi everyone.  Yesterday did turn out to be a restful day.  After church Pat and I went to a place and had a quick lunch and then came home and rested.  I enjoyed watching the Super Bowl last evening and I thought it was a good competitive game.  I didn't really care who won.  I thought the halftime show was terrible. Today will be my usual Monday with my men's luncheon at 1 pm and then a meeting to attend this evening.  We did some walking after coffee this morning but was only able to get in 8 rounds before I had to stop and take a nitro and decided that was enough for today.  Came home and Pat decided this was a good morning for her to have her knee x-rayed and I needed another blood test so we went and had that done.  Then I needed to get the car inspected so stopped to have that done but when they went to start the car the battery was dead.  They jump started the car and I went immediately to Auto Zone and the had the battery checked and it was bad.  I called the dealer regarding pro-rated replacement since the battery is a little less than 3 years old but their was only a few dollars difference from the replacement at Auto Zone.  It wasn't worth the time and effort to take it back to the dealer so had the battery replaced.  All this filled up the morning.

Jane, as soon as you put your foot on the brake pedal the cruise control is turned off.  I remember when you had that event with your car.  They always replay anything in the football game that is exciting. 

Marlo, those heart monitors aren't much fun but do give the doctors a lot of information.  Our daughter has been wearing an external life vest that is a defibrulator and has had it for at least two month and probably will have it for another month.  She is to go this week for an echo test to determine whether her heart is strong enough for them to put in a permanent pacemaker/defib. 

Carol, the software for quilts that I referred to isn't a lesson series but shows many fabrics and lets you create a quilt design.  She never has really used it even though we bought the update version of the first one she bought.  Just so she enjoyed looking at it was all that mattered to me.

Etta Sue, drive safely tomorrow.  It sounds like you will take your time, which is very wise.

Once again, my email notification didn't work, so I got a day behind in here!  Therefore, I will not attempt to address everyone this time.

But I do want to say "Happy Trails" to Etta Sue and Ivalou, have a wonderful and safe mini vacation and enjoy the journey!

Thanks for the thankfulness on our not being hurt the other day.  That is really a wierd feeling, when a car loses all traction and just goes off on its own like that!  Yes, God was definitely in control!  But I'm glad Darrel and not I was driving, as he is more experienced and has had that kind of thing happen to him before.  He knew not to touch the brakes until he regained some control, even to knock it off cruise, because hitting the brakes could well have caused us to flip!  I was busy PRAYING, that's for sure!  Praise God, He was listening!

I have the manuscript for a children's book ready to submit.  But I want to ask first, if they can do two of them at once, if the cost initially would be less.  That's a lot of money to invest in a children's book!  However, I know kids' books do sell well.........what to do?  What to do?  Another prayer concern!

I need to go work on my studio for an hour while Darrel is gone with the car.  Then have Monday errands!  Why is it that Mondays always seem to bring the need for running errands?  (Probably because Mondays follow weekends!  :D)

Love you folks!  Have a great day!

Etta Sue actually I was wrong my birthday is today

 :hbirthday::hbirthday:

Marilyn, I had to chuckle about you being wrong about your birthday.  Darrel thought he was a year older than he actually was for several years!  ;D  And I got your check today, thanks so much.

Happy birthday Marilyn!!

I submitted the children's book today, and they love it!  Now to come up with the $$$$$.........

I've had a really busy day today.  Lon and Dallas came out and moved the shelving from our bathroom that we are replacing, set it where we wanted it in the garage, and I started working on getting my studio cleaned out and rearranged.  I made good headway until Beth called, wanting me to come visit her.  (I spent most of yesterday afternoon with her!)  I had some other errands, so quit on the studio and went to town.  Now I am about to write up some press releases for my book!  Need to send them to the towns we formerly lived in, as well as to Hugoton, where my next book signing (after this week's) will be.

Anyway, I'd better get with it, before my day's supply of energy is depleted!

I'm sorry--I forgot to close the size tab!  Didn't mean to yell at you! My bad... :-[

Janet: I received your book when I arrived home from work today ... and have read it already. What a blessing to read ... such an encouragement for people, and so God-honouring. Thank you for writing it.

Betty, thank you so much for those kind words.  They do mean a lot to me.  God bless you!

HI eveyrone.  After the unexpected events of yesterday I expect today to be much quieter.  It got a bit colder last evening but suppose to get up to 60 degrees this afternoon and zero chance of rain today.  After coffee I need to go to the post office and get a money order to send to our great granddaughter along with her birthday card.  I plan on trying to walk again today and hope to get in a few more rounds than yesterday.  Nothing else special is planned for today unless Pat has something in mind I don't know about. 

Janet, glad the publisher liked your children's book.  Sure Beth looks forward to the time you can spend with her.

Hope you all have a nice day and don't forget to count the many blessings God gives us today.

After a good rest last night I finally feel rested.  Yesterday was along day, today I plan on taking it a bit easier.

We got a skiff of snow yesterday  and all the fields are sparkling white, however there is no white whiter than God's white is there!

I am dog sitting a friend's dog for 10 days or so.  She is a lovely girl and she really does smile with her nose all scrunched up and her lips showing her beautiful pearlie whites.  It is a bit scarey to see the first time, but she smiles so often that you quickly realize it is a smile.

I will look for another hymn, any requests?

I was beginning to wonder a bit whether any of Beth's friends from the NF chat room were going to order books, but did get a check yesterday for one.  And John said today that someone on Facebook wants one, so maybe it's going to get going among them.  They are the main group that we thought would want to read it, and we wrote it to help them.

The house cleaner came today and in two solid hours all she got done was dust the living room and sweep the kitchen and laundry room!  So I did the rest myself.  :(  Thaat didn't leave much time for working on my studio.  I spent a couple of hours with Beth, re-arranged her stuff on her walls to make room for the latest gift from John.  :)  Two more nurses purchased the book today.  :)

I need to go work more on the studio, then complete some Valentines and make a birthday card.

Have a blessed evening and a restful night, everyone!

Hi, friends, a couple of really busy days have passed. Now, I'm preparing to go to tonight's Bible study. I think tomorrow's mostly free, until a late afternoon doctor's appointment.

The Lord blesses in so many ways. This morning, I had agreed to play piano and sing a special song for our Tuesday morning Bible study and devotions. Well, it turned out the lady who was to lead the congregational singing couldn't attend, so I thought, "Well, maybe I'll have to lead singing from the piano." But our Lord had different plans. In walked a fine pianist whom I have helped out during all his eye surgeries and exams. So, he ended up playing piano and I did the song leading. Then, how great, he also played for my solo. God works things out according to His master plan - how much better are his plans than those we try to make!

Well, must go and finish up my contributions to the supper tonight. :)

Love to all of y'all,
Ruth Ann

It's been a quiet day, here on CP as well as in my home.  John has a trainee with him again this week, so I have heard little from him.  Did some shopping and a little running around.

Baked 2 chicken breasts in the oven wrapped in tin foil.  Stuffed them with fresh veggies and by the time I was finished eating I was stuffed.  Tomatoes, onion, mushrooms, and celery all chopped,  Was quite tasty and the chicken was moist.

Two shows on TV tonight I want to watch, NCIS and NCIS LA.  I do enjoy those shows.

Night all have a good rest tonight.

I MADE IT TO CARTERSVILLE, GEORGIA, IN 10 HOURS AND 10 MINUTES!!!  Does that sound like a man bragging?  We stopped about 5-6 times and stretched our legs.  We had supper at the Fruit Jar Cafe...grilled pork chops, home fries with onions and peppers, fried okra, fried green tomatoes, cornbread and bean bar!  And yes, all the drinks are in fruit jars!  Yum! 

Now to get a good night's rest and get through Atlanta in the morning. 

The trip was great.  My TomTom said before getting to Louisville that the traffic delay was 10 minutes and there is faster route.  Do you want to use the faster route?  Yes.  No.  I did.  Then Nashville was the same.  And when exiting multi-lane areas, it shows the lanes on the TomTom.  It even tells what the speed limit is and if you are going over...when passing  ;)  When we started out it said our arrival time would be 3:31 but we arrived at 5:16 so the difference was stopping time.  Good GPS!

I don't know about getting online tomorrow since it is usually dark when we get to Kaye Don's.

I had a haircut today and with the coupon it was still more than I usually pay.  Very nice haircut though and I may have to fit one more in before we leave at the end of March.  We had our defensive driving class and it saves money on insurance.  There is one new signal here in this state (AZ) that is interesting.  They put in a flashing yellow turning signal after the green arrow (I think it goes that way).  It is to keep traffic moving with caution.  Good grief.  I don't like it.  The instructor graduated from  the same university as Don, same year and they had same major classes but did not know each other before today. 

Tomorrow, I need to get busy and plan the meals for a cousin is coming for 2 1/2 days. 

Etta Sue:  You sound like my children when you say the fast time you drove-  :).  Love your heart/smile! 

I am joining the discussion a little late this week.  Might have got a little lazy being home for a week, but have enjoyed every minute of it.  It has been snowing for about 24 hours, but still only a couple inches of accumulation.

This morning started out on a bittersweet note, as I received word that my Grandmother passed away.  She's been suffering from Alzheimer's for several years, and was well beyond the point of recognizing any of us years ago.  She turned 89 last Saturday.  Her physical health was failing recently, and the Lord took her while she slept last night.  Whenever I am asked where I first came to know the Lord, I recall Paul's writing to Timothy in 2 Tim 1:5, "I have been reminded of your sincere faith, which first lived in your grandmother Lois and in your mother Eunice and, I am persuaded, now lives in you also."  I have known no woman with a stronger faith and fear of God than my Grandmother, and she was instrumental in establishing the faith that lives in me today.  We are delaying the service until next Saturday, giving the family time to make travel plans and gather in South Dakota.  Not a bad trip for me, but several are coming from California and Oregon.

Wishing you all a week blessed by the grace and mercy of our Lord!

It is well,
Ken

Hi everyone.  Another nice day on tap.  I will go to Bible study this morning.  Not sure that Pat will as she wasn't able to get much sleep last night and told me this morning if she is asleep when I come home from coffee just let her sleep.  Later this afternoon I have someone from the mattress company coming to look at our bed frame for our adjustable bed.  Often when you sit down or stand up you hear a popping sound.  It doesn't seem to impact the operation of the bed but is a bit annoying. 

Janet, sounds like you might want to find someone who will give you a set price to clean everything that you want done routinely.  We have an agreed on price to clean our whole house. 

Ruth Ann, God does provide so well for us. 

Judy, we have started to watch the NCIS series and are starting at the first season.  I watched the last two episodes on the first or second disk last night. 

Etta Sue, ten hours in the car is a lot of time.  Hope the rest of your trip has gone as well. 

Ken it is tough to lose a grandmother even when they don't know of anymore.

Carol, glad you like your new haircut.  It's amazing how much easier it is to keep your hair when you have a skillful cut.  You do stay busy entertaining company, don't you?

My sister Shirley and her daughter JoAnne are coming for a visit next week, and I am so happy about that!  We don't see each other often enough, but do stay in touch by phone.

Etta Sue, 10 hours is a long day of driving, so it's good that you stop to stretch as often as you feel the need.  Ivalou is so blessed to have you for a sister.  Enjoy your time in the sunshine state!!

Larry, I hope Pat is feeling better when you get (or got) home.  Darrel reminded me not to complain about the cleaning lady, as it doesn't cost us anything.  It is a service provided by our Senior Center.  But we do make a donation occasionally to help cover things like that.  I guess I really shouldn't expect others to work as hard or as fast (or as thoroughly, when it comes to cleaning!) as I do.  Lord, help me develop more patience, and show mercy.  ???

I need to get busy.  I got up early, but haven't begun the day's tasks yet.  I did the most important part,though, spending time with my Father.

Good Morning from the rainy Oregon Coast. I didn't make it to the gym this morning because Keith had to take my car to work. We have a 4 car garage  that looks like a two car on the out side. His Corvette is parked in front of his Camaro and my car is parked behind his antique Opel that doesn't run. So when the Camaro wouldn't start this morning he couldn't take the Corvette either. I didn't want to take him to work because of the back and forth  driving to and from the Office.

Today I think I will work on another Web page for my Website, and do some vacuuming.

Tomorrow's dinner will be a crock pot of chicken soup, a chicken/corn/bean fiesta salad and a corn bread casserole.  Frozen berry pie for dessert or a simple baked cookie - the dough is frozen & ready to slice.  If company comes for two days,  we can go out for one meal don't you think?  I packed my sewing machine away because it is too cumbersome when company visits & now Don tells me his cousin is coming next week.  I had a really long nap this afternoon.

Janet: I sure have longed for a cleaning person to help at times.  We had one come to the house when I was facing back surgery and our oldest son had been in a roll over accident so he was in great pain - a half day she worked & would only wash the kitchen floor and asked for more money to wax it so I waxed the floor.  She complained about the stairs & all the work - so she never was asked to come again.  Good going for you on selling those books. 

Ken:  My sympathy to your and your family on the loss of your grandmother. 

Well, we got here around 5pm.  1068 miles from home.  Kaye Don said that was pretty good since his last trip down was 1067 miles!!  We have already went out for Chinese and we are both trying to relax.  I bet the bed will feel good tonight! 

Not much to talk about so ta-ta!

Well, today was plenty busy!  This afternoon, I worked in the studio, got some bookshelves cleaned out, and another big cabinet/closet emptied because I needed to move it over about 16 inches, and couldn't budge it while full.  Now the place looks worse than ever, because stuff is piled on every flat surface!  I'm thinking it's time to give away a ton of stuff from in there!  Since I no longer am teaching painting classes, I need to pare down the painting supplies, too.  When I don't teach, I don't sell much at all, and I will never live long enough to use it all myself!

I have a portrait class coming up, starting on the 20th, am thinking I will take a bunch of supplies there and put them on sale, priced too good to pass up!  ;)  Sound like a plan?

I went to a birthday/tea party this evening!  It was fun!  One of the gals in our group who scrapbook together had her 60th birthday yesterday, and she had a wonderful collection of teapots, tea cups and saucers, and a HUGE table.  She loves to host parties, so we all got dressed up, wore too much jewelry, too much makeup (some did!) and had a tea party.  We had several kinds of wonderful tea, cucumber sandwiches, crab sandwiches, cookies, tea tarts, gooey cookies (called chess pie cookies!) fresh strawberries, and chocolate cake---MMMMM!  Diet food?  NOT!  :)  It was fun.  We didn't stay too long, as this is church night.

Tomorrow is my book signing at our local library.  I'm praying to sell lots of books!

Ken, my thoughts and prayers are with your family in the home-going of your Grandma.  Grandmas are very special!

Etta Sue, glad you are there safely!  Now get some rest, then have all the fun you can handle!

Hey Janet, I've been wondering if you used my old home address. I went by last week and checked the mailbox and will do so tomorrow if I have time.

I'll send you a personal message here on CP with the new one just to make certain.

It's good to hear from y'all, and truly hope your day has been good.

Now, it's time to "lay me down to sleep." :)

<3

G'nite,
Ruth Ann

Ken - I'm praying for you and your family. It's never easy losing a family member.

I stayed home from work today, a bit under the weather with a cold. It made me think that when I retire I won't always have to push myself to go to work when I'm not feeling well. I'm still considering retiring in the spring.

Continuing to read and pray for people here.

As so many have said, I find retirement a great time. It's when we can make our own schedule, or, in my instance, to "schedule" a little "sabbath" in the midst of the week, for that's what my mind and body needed.

No personal info, but would need prayer support at 2 pm Central time. Thank you, friends.

Ruth Ann

Ken I was looking for the hymn "Faith of our Fathers" to post today.  We don't have it so I will look again tomorrow and see if I can at least find the words.  Praying for your family.

I am off to bed, see y'all tomorrow. 

G'mornin - where's that great cartoon Pat posts sometimes -


Y'all have a good day with our Lord.

Ruth Ann

HI everyone.  I am looking forward to to pretty quiet day after going to coffee, meeting with our broker's agent here in our town to see about having our account transferred to here so we have someone local to speak with.  I also need to make a quick trip to buy my car tags and pay the taxes on the car.  Then the rest of the day is free.  Pat is meeting a friend for lunch and plans a trip to Aldi's, which will be more than enough for her and know she will be exhausted the rest of the day.

Janet, Pat was still asleep when I got home from coffee so she didn't attend Bible study with me.  However, she did make her hair cut appointment close to noon.  I am shocked that a cleaning service would be provided by your Senior Center.  I doubt that there are too many people who are able or willing to work as hard or as fast as you do.  I have to say that our cleaning ladies do a very good job although Pat gets frustrated occasionally by something they have done.  I sure hope we can keep them a long time as have gone through several different housekeepers and these are by far the best.

Marilyn, the car situation gave you a good excuse to stay home and work on your website.

Carol, we don't too often have overnight house guest but when we do we will often try to have one meal at home and then eat out a time or two.  Too bad you had an unpleasant experience with your cleaning lady.  The two cleaning ladies we have spend about two hours and clean our whole house and are willing to take on anything we request. 

Etta Sue, hope you got a good nights sleep and didn't dream that you were still in the car. 

Janet, it sounds like you ladies got to be little girls again with the tea party. 

Betty, retirement can be wonderful.  It is not the end but just the beginning of a whole new way of looking at life.  Hope your cold is better today.

Ruth Ann, I see you beat me here this morning.  I love mornings as always feel my best after a nights rest.

RUTH ANN, I checked my receipts from the Post Office, and I mailed your book on January 24.  I sent it to the correct address........Darrel thinks I should wait another day or two to see if it arrives, so will do that.  Seems to me it should have arrived long before now, but the PO isn't what it used to be.  Even letters, etc. mailed to someone right here in town are sent to Wichita to be postmarked, then returned here!  Efficiency?  I don't think so!  I'm sure you will let me know when it gets there, and if not, will proceed as I told you in the PM.  Thanks for your patience, love you.

Larry, yes, it was fun to be little girls again for an hour or so.  ;)  Sounds as if you have a really busy day ahead of you.  Our Senior Center offers many services not usually found in those centers, such as cleaning, handy man, help with taxes, nurse services every day! and several others.  It's a wonderful Senior Center.

Betty, feel better soon!  I am busier since retiring than I was when working!  Of course, having the luxury of being able to say 'NO" is great,(even though I  don't often exercise it!)

My book signing at the library is today at noon, so I will get off here and pack books and things, as have to take the van to pick up Beth and that always takes extra time.  But she really wants to be there, and it's good for her to get out for things.  Prayers for today appreciated!  Thanks.

Overcast but 68°.  I'll take that.  I think we are going to go to the Sweet Tomato for lunch.  They say it is a huge buffet. 

I hope I get used to sleeping with someone else in the bed, with too many lights on, with the temperature too hot, with a dog in the bed and other people getting up and down for the bathroom.  If I didn't wear earplugs, I probably wouldn't sleep at all!  It will get better.  At least, I am not home and looking out my window at my maple tree.

Hope to go swim this afternoon.

Hello Everyone My name is Larra Freeman my mother Marlo has asked me to let you know that even while she is in the hospital you all are on her mind and she is still praying for you everyday.  I am truly blessed to have a mother that is so sound in the word, I pray that I can follow in her footsteps.  She heard me say that today and she told me she didn't want me to follow her footsteps she wanted me to follow Jesus footsteps. 

JudyB  she said a song:  The Rose of Sharon  is you need help Jeanne could help

Many blessings and Prayers Larra Freeman and Momma

I'm praying as we speak, Larra, and thank you SO MUCH for posting for your mother. My best wishes and prayers for her recovery.

Ruth Ann Bice

Larra, please give my best wishes to your sweet Momma, and tell her I think she is raising a wonderful daughter!  I  am praying for Marlo's supernaturally fast recovery and return to health.  With my love, Janet

Ruth Ann, L left you a message in the Mod's Lounge.  ;)

This is for Marlo!  Hope you are better soon! (I hope it is the right one!)

Larry or Ruth Ann, I hope you can answer a question for me. My printer quit and I want to get a wireless printer, do I need to get a  wireless plugin in for this old PC  to communicate with the printer.  I could use my Netbook but I don't use it as often ans the PC and never use it for my graphics or to print out stuff for Keith's work.

Ken:   My sympathy to you on the going home of grandma.

This is and will be a busy and trying time for me as just Wed. past my Aunt had her cataract surgery.    It was a very old cataract that had to be chipped off which took longer than normal  the surgeon said he was lucky but I said no the Lord was guiding him.
She could see right away and after getting home everything looked new and even now she is still living the joy, when I arrived this morning to put her eye drops in she was sitting reading the paper.    She has a most wonderful neighbor that is also helping me by doing her drops twice a day and I am then able to do the other twice.   

I must also say that I am very tired.

Blessings   Ruth

Ruth Know you are prayed for during this time.

Went out today to take some pictures with my Christmas present, came home to download them only to find out the adapter I use to download pictures is missing!   Grrrr that is so frustrating. :eek:

Have a good night folks I will be back tomorrow.

I ordered my new printer  from Walmart after I discovered they didn't have it in stock. It is a wireless but has the  cables to  hook it up to the desktop. When I get a new computer I think I will get a laptop. The printer will work with the Netbook, but the satellite   maps that I need to print out for  Keith  are just not big enough for me to see them well on a 10.5 inch screen. I wish I could just get a wireless card for the PC but why do that when this computer is so old it may quit anytime. It is 9 years old.

I need to be able to print wirelessly also, Marilyn. Possibly Larry can get us both on the right track. And, of course, others on CP may be able to help, as well. So, here's an "all points bulletin" for a computer guru to give a few moments of guidance.  :)

God has certainly gone before me, been with me, and encircled me with His loving guidance today. Thanks for praying. And, He even cleared my appointments for tomorrow so I can be focused! That's just like His great love, isn't it.

Must go - rest is definitely needed tonight.

Love y'all, Ruth Ann

Marilyn, my wireless printer is plugged into my desktop but I can use it with the laptop as wireless.  I had a guru come to the house and while he was there he set up the wireless part with the laptop so I don't know what he did.  I also have an Epsom printer so when I use the laptop, I have to remember to choose which printer I am using. 

The buffet was really good yesterday.  Huge salad bar, then a potato bar, soup bar and desserts for one price.  Sweet Tomatoes!  I guess they did have tomatoes but I don't think I had any!  Today I think we are going for early bird supper at Anna Marie's Oyster Bar. 

Sun is shining so looks to be a nice day in Florida.  I heard it was snowing back home!

Hi everyone.  We are bracing for cold weather that is headed our way tonight and for the next couple of days.  Saturday and Sunday nights are to be in the low 20s.  Just back from coffee.  Two of my friends brought in coffee cake and biscotti to help celebrate my birthday, which occurs on the 12th.  I really appreciated their thoughtfulness.  The only thing on my schedule for today is our ROMEO's luncheon.  We are going to a place called Wild Wings.  Fortunately they have a large menu as wings are not my favorite food.  I was able to get my car tags yesterday afternoon and there was no line so was in and out in 5 minutes or less.  I should be set now for another year.

Janet, I heard yesterday that the Post Office had a deficit of  another $3 Billion dollars for, I believe, the last quarter.   Nice that Beth can participate with you at the book signings. Hope you sold a lot of books.

Etta Sue, it has been some years since I ate at the Sweet Tomato.  Hope you enjoyed it.

Larra, thanks for letting us know about your mother.  She had indicated she was having health issues but didn't expect to hear of her being hospitalized.  Please keep up informed as she is a part of our CP family and I will be praying for her.

Marilyn, I have had no experience with a wireless printer other than sharing via wi-fi. One of my printers is wi-fi but never had success setting it up that way and the cables work quickly and well.   If your old PC does not have a wireless card you definitely would need one to be able to get your print jobs to your printer.  You are probably wise not to buy a wireless USB  adapter since your computer is getting very old in computer years.

Ruth, wonderful that your aunt's cataract surgery went so well.  If she hadn't been seeing well and now can it is no wonder she is filled with joy.

Judy, does your camera have a micro memory card in it?  If so and your computer has the built in readers for the card you can simply pop the card out of your camera and into the comptuer where it will appear as another storage device and then you can pull off the pictures to your computer. 

Ruth Ann, If you have wireless in your apartment using the wireless printer should work well as your computer should see the printer when you go to install a new printer through the control panel.  You do have to have wireless capability on your computer but most of the newer computers always have that.  Not long ago the wireless card in Pat's computer quit and I just bought a USB wireless adapter and that works fine to connect your computer to the wireless setup in the house.

I had the best night's sleep last night I've had in a long time!  Praise the Lord!

I'm just home from the dermatologist's office.  I have a big brown spot on each cheek, the larger one is scaly and bothers me a bit, mostly because it just looks bad.  Anyway, they aren't anything to cause concern, she said, but if I wanted, she would spray them with liquid nitrogen and take them off.  But it isn't covered by Medicare, so the cost will be.........$10.00!  Ha!  I told her I thought I could afford ten dollars!  So she sprayed them, and now I am back home!  The other good news is that while there in her office, I  sold two books!  One to her nurse, another to a patient who was waiting to see her!  You never know who might be interested unless you ask!  I need to get the word out, so am becoming bolder, especially after getting so many comments saying the book is a good read, enjoyable, encouraging and not at all a downer.  Thanks for the help, everyone!  God has plans forthis book---I really believe that!

Etta Sue, I think you will probably enjoy a lot of good meals while there!  I hear they cater a lot to older folks (not that you are one!) and have those early bird specials.  Enjoy!

I have a wireless printer, use only my laptop now, since my other computer died.  Darrel nor I could get the wireless to work, so grandson Mark came and spent a couple of hours, but he got it figured out, bless his heart.  Got to love those grandsons!  <3

A dear lady I have known for several years and who was a resident at the care home, earlier at the assisted living when I cooked there, passed away.  Her service is at 2:00 today at the Episcopal church, and I plan to go, red spots on my face or not!  Marilyn was a true lady, and so sweet.

It's sunshine and mild weather here today, continues to be dry, though.

PRAYER REQUEST!!  My youngest daughter, Kerri, emailed me this morning to say her planned visit with us for this weekend is off.  She had a mishap as she left the EMT place where she worked the night shift.  The toe of her boot caught the lip of the sidewalk and she fell face first into a brick wall!  She said she wasn't sure if it knocked her out, just remembers lying on the ground thinking, my head hurts!  My knee hurts!  and wasn't able to get up for some time.  Then she drove home, showered and went to work, but felt muddled and in pain all day, at times her words came out garbled, and she says she is monitoring herself for a brain bleed; that she knows she has a grade 2 concussion.  And of course, she has a big goose egg on her forehead.

My response was to tell her to go get checked out!!  Good grief, she is not a doctor, even if so, should not be trying to treat herself..... prayers much appreciated!  Thanks!

Larry my computer doesn't have the built in card reader.  I need the attachment in order to read the card.  They run $20 so not that expensive.  It is here I think I put in a place where it wouldn't get lost!

We have snow.  Still coming down, and covering all the brown spots of earth that look so ugly in the spring!

John is home so I am off till this evening.

Hi everyone, I can't believe how quickly this week has gone by!  I appreciate your thoughts and prayers regarding my grandmother's passing.  Been in touch with family all week, as we are getting plans made.  Because our family is so spread out, it looks like we will have two services, so to speak.  The "real" service will be in South Dakota on the 18th, then we'll have a celebration of life get-together in California on the 26th.  Because I am somewhat in the middle (in more than one way), I will probably go to both, weather permitting.  I've been asked to speak at the service in SD, so I could use some prayer as I prepare the words God gives me to share. 

Janet, all the comments I've been reading about your book are exciting.  When life slows down a little, I will get on your website and order a copy.  My eldest daughter has aspirations of being a writer, so sharing wonderful successes likes your's should be a great encouragement to her.

Larra, please tell Marlo she is in my prayers, as well.

Marilyn & Ruth Ann, I wish I could offer you some good advice about wireless printers, but my only experience is with Bluetooth, rather than WiFi.  Wireless printing via WiFi will give you a lot more range than Bluetooth, but if you do all your work in the same room, Bluetooth works great.  It is getting where most modern computers come with Bluetooth capability, so all you would need is a Bluetooth capable printer.

JudyB, I really enjoy the musical ministry you bring to this forum.  Sometimes I think you select hymns from my list of favorites!

I haven't seen a post from Pastor Al lately, does anyone know if he's made it home yet?  He, and all of you, are in my prayers.

It is well,
Ken

Ken if Pastor Al had made it home he would be posting if he was able, so we must assume he is still in rehab.

WooHoo I am so thrilled I got the doctor I requested, (It was a closed practiced and I had to apply to be accepted) She started out as a nurse, taught nursing, was also a nurse Practitioner before she decided to go to medical school and get her DO so she could treat adult patients in a Holistic manner. you can read her bio  HERE (http://www.bayclinic.net/physicians2.htm) Scroll down to Dr. Wendy Haack (That is pronounced Hawk) I am so happy.[/url] Scroll down to Dr. Wendy Haack (That is pronounced Hawk) I am so happy.

Hi, friends, it was a busy, eventful afternoon, and left me drained.

So, it was time to rest a bit before posting.

Ken, I'll be thinking of you with the challenge of celebrating your grandmother's life appropriately. When my dad died, his funeral was held in the church sanctuary. Well, family members got there first, so I just sat down and began to play hymns. And, the minister who was to speak asked me to play for the funeral itself. Then, my brother and I sang a duet of his favorite hymn. We closed the service with all 29 family members (some from as far as England) singing "I'll Meet You in the Morning." The minister's sermon was excellent and since my dad pastored several small churches in the outskirts of town, many individuals rose to speak of how his life and love had ministered to them.

What a moving, wonderful way to end his life. Oh, by the way, several of us were around his bed that last night and we began to sing. He had lain in a coma all day, but as he prepared to cross into his new life, his eyes opened, and he raised his hand - with a sweet smile, his last word was "Halleleujah."

Ruth Ann

Ruth Ann, what precious, precious memories!

Ken, so good to read your post, prayers are with you as you prepare for your Grandma's farewell. 

Marilyn, glad you got the doctor you wanted.

I am ready to leave for my painting group.  We had another member go home to heaven since our last meeting, so it will be bittersweet, I'm sure.

Darrel and I went to the movie War Horse last night---excellent movie!  We seldom go to the theater, so it's a nice treat when we do, and we need to suppost our local one, sure wouldn't want to see it close.

Later!  :)  Be blessed!

Hi everyone.  Today is the day that winter comes back to Georgia.  We are having gusty winds and by noon the cold front is to move in and tonight we will be down in the teens.  I expect that will take care of the plants and trees that are flowering for this year.  We are suppose to get some wind gusts up to 35 miles and hour throughout the day.  We plan on going to Atlanta today to have lunch with Stacey.  I also think Pat plans on a trip to Walmart this morning so that will be a full day for us.

Janet, so nice to see you got a good nights sleep as that does wonders for a person.  Glad the spots on your face were nothing of concern.  Concussions are nothing to fool around with and I certainly hope Kerri will see a doctor. 

Judy, you might well find a card reader for much less on eBay or Amazon unless the shipping would be a problem.  You know that as soon as you get one your will find your camera adapter.  :)

Ken, when my father died in the nursing home we had a service conducted by the nursing home chaplain at the nursing home so my mother could be there as well as the folks at the nursing home who knew him.  He was then taken to Missouri, where he had lived for 80 years, and we had another service for family and friends.  When mother passed we didn't do the nursing home service but took her back to Missouri for a service and burial.  I am pretty sure that Al is still in rehab and not at home.  I think he indicated they were looking at later this month.

Marilyn, glad you were able to get the doctor you wanted.



Sure hope Marlo is doing better today.

Almost "normal" February weather today.  I woke up to a light dusting of snow, not even enough to completely cover the grass.  Now it's dull and gray and the temperature is dropping steadily, although there's hardly any wind.  We've had just over 13 inches of snow so far since the October storm - last year at this time we'd had almost 51 inches and the average is about 30.

Every time I give a prayer of thanks for such a mild winter, I remember the people who depend on cold and snow for their livelihoods and who are losing so much money this year.   :(

Good Morning I was up early this morning to take the dogs out so I stayed up, got dressed, ground some fresh coffee beans, made a full pot of coffee. I don't make a full pot during the week only about 7-8  cups. But with the 10 oz mugs that measurement doesn't mean much. The dogs and cats have been fed, Happy has had his medication, I've been outside to clean up after the dogs. Then I baked a Lemon cake that is now cooling. The sun is shining and I hope  it stay that way all day.  Not much else is new here.

Good afternoon. 

They say that a cold spell is in Florida.  People are walking the dogs with jackets and sweaters on...the people...not the dogs! 

I stepped outside for a few minutes and it is warm to me!

Yesterday we went to the Rod and Reel.  It is a restaurant at the end of a pier...not a big restaurant but the Crab Cake Sandwich was good and the Fries were very good.  Can't get used to seeing people in shorts!

Barb and Kaye Don are at the ER.  Barb is on blood thinner and she hit her arm Thursday at the doctor's office when Kaye Don got results from his stress test.  I have never seen an arm look like Barb's.  It is red almost from her wrist to her elbow and about 4 inches wide.  Then there is a spot where there is a hard- like knot!  That's what I would be concerned about.  So she is getting it looked over!

Then if all goes well, we are going to the Early Bird Supper at Anna Marie's Oyster Bar this afternoon at 4pm.  Then Ivalou and I decided to go to the bath house for our shower for tomorrow and church.  The showers are larger than here in the park model. 

Prayers are for concerns and praises are for blessings from God. 

MMMMMMgood - Lemon cake and crabcake sandwich  thanks to Marilyn and Etta Sue.

Just spent from cousin & wife - they always bring their yippy dog and with the tile in this place, the sound is so sharp and tinny that it hurts Don's ears.  He is totally exhausted which makes me feel so bad. My cousin is a dear person & a wonderful servant of  The Lord so we always have a super visit.  After they left, I had to talk to some young people and ask them to please turn down their (stupid) music and they obliged immediately.  Thanks be - Don cannot stand noise so this has been a very hard time for him and now to get him peaceful and settled.  He only wants toast for dinner and I feel the same. 

Ken:  I am sure you will be guided on what to speak on at the service.  Blessings being sent your way!

Jeanne:   I know what you mean about being grateful for decent weather - the mountains in CO are really hurting for snow this year and it is a huge indicator of businesses going broke without the winter sports.  Last year the snowfall was way over the top - it just depends. 

Well, time for fix toast for dinner.   I made a big lunch for everyone and they are on their way so we are not hungry at all. 

Hello Again, Ken I forgot to tell you I am also praying for you and your family.

I do wish Al would check in, he hasn't been here in awhile to let us know how he is doing. Marbeth is hard to get hold of since she spend a lot of the time there with Al. Maybe I should try to call her.

No much going on here today.

ER had lobster, steak and veggies for dinner.  Doug gave us the lobster some time ago and because I didn't know how to cook it.......it sat in the freezer.  Tonight we steamed it and I heated up some butter, added a bit of lemon and it was good.  A real nice change from the ordinary.

I finally figured out why my printer didn't work. I uninstalled it, restarted the computer, then re-installed it.  Woopie it worked!  Now to do the same thing on John's computer.

This has been a long day.  Had company this morning, and working on the computer ever since.  At least it now works!

I'm off.  I will be back tomorrow.  God bless.

I've had a busy week, but am still checking in and praying for people on this site. We had a snowy time for one of my drives, but it was only an hour and a half drive - glad it wasn't longer. My work is going fairly well. My Dad is going for surgery this coming Friday. He has 2 hernia surgeries, and then dialysis surgery, so will continue to appreciate your prayers.

Ken: I'm praying for you, that the Lord will give you the message you need to deliver. I know that He can give you the strength, peace, and wisdom you will need.

Larra / Marlo: Praying - for peace, comfort, healing and strength.

To those having "fun" with printers: This is one of the areas in our computer department that can be the most frustrating. I hope you are able to figure things out. Judy, I'm glad yours is working for you now.

May God bless everyone for the uplifting and encouraging comments on this site. Enjoy your worship time tomorrow.

Hi, friends,

Well, it's a really cold day here in Tennessee. Brrrrr!

My deadline will be met shortly, so I'll be "back to abnormal" once again. ;) However, as I said a few days ago, the Lord has given me peace throughout this week, so it's been so much easier than these types of things have been on me in the past. Truly, we do need to "trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean NOT to your own understanding." Since it's all in His hands, I don't need to lean on my own "mis"understanding.

Thank you, God, that even as an elder, You still allow me to learn from You. Amen.

I ran across this poem, and since we've had mentions of not being able to sleep, I thought it would be good to share:

When Sleep Won't Come

Thank You, Lord for sleepless
   hours,
When You can talk to me --
   and I to You;
when all is still -- no need to rush,
no work I need to do.
When, as the names and faces
of loved ones come to mind,
I have the time to pray for them,
which rarely I can find,
when daytime duties press me
and daytime sounds I hear.
I listen to their voices
and not to Yours, I fear.
But in the still night watches,
no sound or sight or soul,
can take away the blessings
of a mind in Your control.

There was no information in this little clipping as to the poet's name, but most certainly it makes a statement to me, and I hope to y'all as well.

Love to each of you,
Ruth Ann

Hi everyone.  We have a bit of winter this morning in terms of cold weather but is currently 36 degrees.  I am hoping it didn't actually reach the freezing point last night.  However, the sun is shining and it is going to be a nice day.  After church this morning we have the annual Senior's Valentine Banquet where we are given a very nice meal with tables decorated for the occasion and then a nice program.  Today our choir director and assistant choir director are doing the program and it should be very good.  The choir director will be singing and the assistant director playing the piano for her.  We had a nice trip to Atlanta yesterday and met our daughter at the Shepard's Spinal Center cafeteria for a nice lunch and time to visit. 

Etta Sue, sounds like you are having a good time and eating a lot of seafood.  Sure hope Barb is all right.

Carol, noise can be very annoying.  I asked that the music be turned down where the ROMEO's ate on Friday but don't think they did.  They were playing a pounding type music and it was hard to talk to even the person next to you much less a couple of people down without really raising your voice.  Hope you can have a few days of quiet to recover. 

Judy, you sound like me in terms of fixing lobster.  I have eaten it out a few times but we have never had it at home.

Betty, sure your dad will feel better after his surgery and a couple of days of recovery.  I know it sure made a difference for me.

Ruth Ann, your little poem says exactly what I've decided is the reason for my sleepless nights.  Sometimes this old brain of mine won't shut down and I start trying to solve all the problems of the world.  That's when the Lord nudges me and I am able to override those useless thoughts and concentrate on the needs of people I've committed to pray for - and others who don't know I'm praying for them or who don't think they need prayer.

Getting the brain to shut down is one of the most difficult things for me.  I can be falling asleep on the couch , go to bed and wake wide up.  So annoying.

We at last have cloud cover and the temp has gone up somewhat.  Only -15*C this morning, Tomorrow is to be +1 or about 33*F.  That is a good deal for our wood!

HAve John's meals to prepare, so I'm off doe now.

Time to start a new week HERE (http://www.christianphotographers.com/community/index.php?topic=12151.0)