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BIBLE MEDITATION:
Philippians 3:14[/b] - "I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus."

DEVOTIONAL THOUGHT:
Do you want to win the prize that Paul talks about? He didn't want to fail. He strained with every inch, every ounce, every nerve, and every part of his body to win the prize. He had ambition. But it was more than just ambition, it was a holy ambition.
He said, "I want that prize and I'm going to have it. I'm going to be like an athlete who denies his own body worldly pleasures. I'm going to train like an athlete. I'm going to stay in shape for the Lord Jesus. I'm going to do all that is necessary that I may win."

ACTION POINT:
Friend, the Bible clearly teaches that we ought to be ambitious, but for the right reason. And that reason is for Jesus. In this new year, may God deliver us from pint-sized ambitions and small-time aspirations.

Hello to all.     

We woke to flakes of snow floating down and yes it is colder more like our winter should be. Like Judy B said the warmer days were nice and easy to get around.
I was talking to my brother-in-law that lives farther north than Judy, according to him it is colder than down here which is to be expected, cool enough that when he takes his dog for a walk he puts boots on the dog.

Larry:  I should write things down in order to reply to all that posts on here too much to remember by times.
About the dryer I try to do that right away as I would forget as well then like Pat need to do a rinse for them to dry nicely.

Soon I will need to leave to pick up my Aunt for our get together this afternoon on the way she would like to stop at the bank, Mel could and would go to pick her up but when she wants to do some banking I prefere that I am the one to go.

Janet:   Take care of yourself try to get enough rest, then the problems will be less difficult to deal with. Most times that is a difficult to do.

Ruth V:  That drive to the south and back all in one go is very tiring.  We have done the drive to the north 6hrs one way stayed over night then came back did it only once, a long drive and a short visit. 

Janet How are you feeling today? I hope you are doing much better.

We had a late breakfast and  have cleaned up the kitchen. I took the tree down and got all that put away 9AM. I had repacked and put away the Ceramic Christmas Village  last week.

Yesterday I worked on getting  much of the art stuff stored in my computer  put in the folders by the year, then onto CD's, I do have 2009 and 2010 stored in my Windows Live storage place. So I doubt I will be losing anything, I also have it backed up every day to my external Hard drive. I decided to have my program files also backed up to the External HD as i don't want to lose all my programs that I use for my graphics and music.

My backup program discards the previous days files. There are some on there from the old Microsoft program that was before Microsoft essentials that I can't delete. I wish I could I don't  need all the extra things taking up  space.  Larry how would I delete those files I will never need them.

Larry, I also like the auto focus on the camera.  This one has full auto, but you can change the mode, such as portrait, landscape, close-up, etc. and still have the auto on.  Lots to learn!

About the Kindle--is it easy to download and delete books off it?  And how costly are the books you pay for?  I think I would enjoy one, but I like toting paper books around with me, too.

Thanks, Marilyn and Ruth, I am feeling fine again now, thank God!  Lots of people around here had that same crud I had, not fun.  Sorry about your fall, Ruth, and I sure agree as to going to the chiropractor, saves lots of problems down the road.

Etta Sue, we use small propane heaters plus a couple of the electric Eden Pure heaters, just try to keep the area we are in at a comfortable temp.  So our temps fluctuate far more than 4* at times.

We drove to Hugoton to go to church today.  Another chance to see Curt, Toni and the great grands.  I love that church!

We are to have a pastoral candidate come and preach to us on the 23rd.  I'm not very excited about it.  I guess the shock and hurt from the last pastor hasn't dissipated yet.  I know we have to get past it, though.  I'm making it a priority in prayer.

I really do not think Beth has shingles, but the doctor still hasn't been there to see her.  Maybe tomorrow....

Marilyn:  It is nice to see you posting in here. 

Ruth: Ouch - for you slipping on the floor.  Yes, get yourself checked out. 

We went to an 8 AM service very nearby this morning and found some super friendly people.  Several from Minnesota originally so they knew a lot about where Don grew up.  We had jumpers in the SUV so Don was able to get a dead battery going on a car in the parking lot.  The service is a lot more formal than what we go to now & a guest pastor so several people told us to come back & hear the pastor.  We will and I see that they meet for quilting too so I could help in that way.  We chose the early traditional service instead of the later one that for sure has a lot more lively music - I like that too but Don can't stand the music as it is always and will forever be distorted by his hearing loss. 

Listening to a book on iPod right now and Don is watching football.  It is windy and too chilly to walk today. 

Janet:  Just spotted you!  You can download many free books on kindle just google place and there are free books to read from your county library.  Not all will be what you like but just keep asking for certain books.  You may find a few you really like. 

It is great that you are feeling better.  How far are you driving to the church you like?  Maybe you can go there a few times a month - it is nice to be close.  Sorry you are feeling that way about the hunt for a new pastor.  It is a big undertaking to find someone just right for congregation.  As for Beth, I pray that the doctor will diagnoes her correctly and there will be relief very soon.   

Thanks, Carol.  It is about a 70 mile round trip to Hugoton, and Darrel doesn't want to drive it every Sunday.  But we can go once in a while.  The church here is just doing so much better without a pastor, that we aren't in any hurry to find a replacement.  That's a sad situation, huh?  But I know God's heart is for the church, so will continue to pray for our hearts and His will.

I know there are hundreds of free books for the eReaders, but was wondering how much new releases cost.  Do you have a Kindle, too?

Thanks for coming back to "talk" to me! 

Janet  - you know it wasn't God's plan that churches should "hire" a pastor.  After all, they aren't produced on an assembly line.  They were raised up from within the body.  If such a person is found, then any further education he needs (and I do believe in educated pastors) can be obtained in other ways.  Obviously, the whole process needs to be bathed in prayer.

Al--????  Not sure I understand your reasoning here, other than about prayer, with which I am in complete agreement.

Hi everyone from a chilly 26 degree Georgia.  However, it is suppose to warm up quite a bit today.  This is the day for the housekeeper to come and perhaps the yard people.  During the three winter months the yard people come only once a month to tidy up the yard as I have a yearly contract but not much to do in the yard this time of the year.

Other than my men's luncheon today, my schedule is pretty clear.  I need to send out some advance copies of Treasurer's reports that I will present at a meeting on Wednesday evening.  It is also time to adopt a new budget for the year and I have that ready to send out as well.

Janet, you can easily check on the going prices of new books on the Amazon website.  Generally, you will find them for around $10.  As far as deleting them, there is a lot of room to store them on the device so that really isn't a worry.  I have not been successful in getting my eBook reader to recognize a book from the library.  The library site says it will work with my device but so far no luck.  However, I have so many books to read already on the device and Barnes & Noble offers a free book every Friday so no danger of not having something good to read.

Carol, I take it that you really like the iPad?  It does look quite impressive.

Marilyn, you could try using the right mouse button on those files and see if they are locked.  Go to properties for the files and see if you can unlock them and then erase them.  Also, you need to be signed in as Administrator if you don't work in that mode all the time. 

Will it is time to head out for coffee at McDonald's.  Hope everyone has a wonderful day.

Janet - I just mean that churches in our day act way too much like the world.  When a pastor is sought, they do it as the world does it for a new CEO, etc. - they hire and fire just as a corporation might do, checking qualifications, education, etc.  But the early church didn't do things that way.  They prayed, then began looking within the local church body for men whom the Lord had raised up and given the pastoral gifts needed.  It's an alternative to the world's way of checking out the recent graduates or the men who may have recently left successful positions.  God gives gifts within the churches to men He has chosen, and the church then recognizes those gifts and calls them to be undershepherds for His flock.  I'm just saying that our Lord's church is not like the average modern
company when choosing its leaders but seeks instead to find the men within the congregation upon whom the Lord has conferred His gifts and graces.

Each local church is a family.  A family doesn't choose its leaders from the population at large by looking at local graduates or men from successful families - it seeks GOD'S replacement from among those it knows and loves.

In saying this I don't mean to say that seminary grads or previously successful pastors are all bad or wrong choices, but I'm just saying that maybe - just maybe  God is raising up someone from within the church to lead His people.

In addition to what Al has said; the men God is raising up often feel useless and unwanted in the local churches, because the "corporation" doesn't recognise what God is doing in their lives.

Janet, I have Kindle on my Droid.  Last evening I got my first book from the Kindle Store.  I found it on the laptop and then used the Droid to find it and purchase.  I got 'Heaven is For Real' for $6.64.  I think you recognize that title.   ;)  Even if you are getting a free ebook, you will have to have an account set up with credit card...just in case you purchase one.  It was easy...just follow their instructions.  And then you get an email that you can print after your purchase.  Just got to www.amazon.com and look for Kindle Store.  Go from there!

Today is a busy day already.  Trash.  And Kitty is to be here by 11am.  We are going for Chinese...her first Chinese dining experience.  We have to make sure she tells them she is allergic to fish but I think she will love Hawaiian Chicken!  Then to Frye's if we have time.  Then we are going to go the the Breast Center for her to get her mammogram at 1:15....the main reason for the Kindle ebook.  Then swimming.  Then home.  And at 7pm is church council meeting.  Busy! 

And all of that is if it is God's will.  I can't predict the future...He can!

A lady at church was telling someone the alternative wouldn't be good.  I asked her what she meant.  She said 'Death!  No one wants to die.'  I told her I would.  I am ready to die and live eternity in heaven.  She looked at me like I was crazy!! 



4
 

Just a little corollary to the idea of finding pastors from within the local flock: The Holy Spirit of God is living and active and moving amongst His people.  He can lead us (or His local church) to exactly the man He chooses to be pastor.

Thank You, Father, for the vacancy in Janet's church, because, by Your grace, it can be an opportunity for You to bless them through someone You've chosen!

Lookee, lookee .... I'm here this morning!   8)  :D

I just wanted to say a loud AMEN to all that Al has written ... and to Judy's comment, as well.  I sooo agree!   :thumbsup:

Today started off very "chilly"  .... heavy frost!  :yikes: But I have already been out and about, and even managed to pay some bills.  Now, I am home and getting warm and I think I'll grab my fleece throw and settle into my recliner for a while.  For some reason I have been tired ever since returning from my week away.  Well, that was last year ... I should be able to catch up by now, doncha think?   :-\

I'll talk atcha later ... pouring myself a fresh cuppa, and grabbing my warm fuzzy ....  :coffee:  :sleepy:

Larry it didn't work. all I can do is compress them and I am the administrator logged in all the time. Oh Well they do take up much room on the External 120 gigs only 7.68

I have been out and about this morning, paid bills online and not I have to take Bebe to the groomer to have her nails trimmed. Then I am done for today until Keith gets home from  work. We have to go to Walmart then fix supper. I am tired just remembering all the things I've already done today.

I agree with what Al and Judy have said, I remember when Pastor Danny came to AG/my old church and he started trying to bring in a lot of people from his old church. That didn't go over very will and people left the church because they didn't want a new pastor. Well with a much smaller church and those who hung in there, Danny has become part of the family. he has now been there 4 years. but it was very hard for him to make it through that first year.

I will comment on the pastor thing later.  Right now I have an urgent prayer request:  My sister Doris fell today, down her steps, and broke a hip.  She couldn't crawl and get back into the house, didn't have her cell phone (was just getting the mail) and she lay there in the bitter cold for quite some time until passing good Samaritans saw her lying there.  They stopped, covered her with a coat, she told then to go in the house and get her a blanket and call an ambulance, which they did.  Then they followed the ambulance from their small town to North Platte, and saw that she was admitted into the hospital.  I don't know if she knew these people or not.  When her daughter called me, she was sobbing so that it was hard to understand her.  Barb lives way up in Minnesota, and she was so wishing she could be there with her Mom!  The doctor said she needed surgery today, but he was booked up until tomorrow afternoon, when she will have surgery.  Barb said my sis was in a lot of pain when she talked to her.  Prayers appreciated!!
(Sis is 74 years old, works like crazy all the time!)

Thanks, friends.

Oh!  And Beth does NOT have shingles, thank you, Lord!

Adding this to my list Janet.

as an after thought....how far are you from North Platt?  I know I have driven through there, but I'm a little foggy at where you are, in relation to there.

Oh Father, I pray that the surgery for Doris will go unusually quickly and well and that the results will result in relief and healing through our Lord Jesus Christ.

Janet I am praying as I type this and will continue when I get off my computer.
I am going to a Women's Extreme Spiritual Makeover on the 10th, I am so excited. I know the Evangelist and his wife and the Music minister is the worship leader at my home church in McKinelyville. I am so excited, He is going to set something up for May here in North Bend or Coos Bay, I am  thrilled beyond words. this man is so fantatsic and has a Holy Spirit filled healing ministry. Denny Valero} (http://dennyvalero.com/joomla/) You would absolutely love his preaching.

Thanks so much for the prayers, friends.

Judy, North Platte, Nebraska is about a five hour drive from us.  We are in the very SW corner of Kansas, about 60 miles from Oklahoma and 40 miles from Colorado, and not too far from Texas.

I'm going to work in a few minutes.  Working on the Unit again, and just now, they have only 7 residents, one of whom is in the hospital, so it's not a hard job.  Just being on my feet for 7+ hours is enough, though.

I am expecting a GOOD report on my Sis sometime this afternoon!  I know God cares for His own.  He even loves those who don't know Him!

So sorry to hear of Doris' fall.  That's why I generally carry my cell everywhere.  Outside is more dangerous than inside really! 

Busy day yesterday.  Kitty and I ate at King Chef.  Kitty's first Chinese dining experience.  She said it was good and a lot healthier than Mexican but she preferred Mexican.  We didn't have time to go to Frye's.  Reading my Kindle made the time pass so quickly waiting for Kitty to get done with her mammorgram. 

Then off to swim.  I think I really swam 38 links.  I lost count but then was thinking, I didn't lose count.  But my back knows I did my maximum in swimming yesterday!  It takes a while for my git-along to get going today!!

Church council was okay last night.  One of our trustees resigned.  He has been a member of CCC for years.  No explanation last night...just that he has a job directing choir at another church until February something and then he will seek another church.  His wife is the council secretary.  She was pretty torn up with the decision.  Then pastor Steve talked and was telling us about change in churches.  Mainly we have older members in our church that doesn't want change.  They want CCC to remain the same.  Well, he said, when your appliances wear out...you don't buy the same as the old...you get better, more improved appliances.  Same with cars.  Roofing.  Clothes.  Shoes.  TV's.  So the church should do the same.  The future is the kids in any church.  Without kids, the church will die.  We need to bring kids into the church through change.  We may not like the high-tech things that kids do but when it brings them to God and church, that's what needs to be done.  And when the kids come, the parents come.  On and on he talked and you know what?  I fully agree!  I don't mean that church should be party time but it should be enjoyable and you should go to church for the fellowship with others AND learning about God. 

That's it! 

Waiting for a call telling me the heat pump man is on his way.  Tonight is Beef and Boards seeing a show about a Spelling Bee.

Janet, I'm praying for Doris that the Lord touch her with His peace and comfort, as well as her daughter and all your family.  And praise the Lord that Beth doesn't have shingles - but do they know what the problem really is?

Etta Sue, I agree that, even though the "senior" contingent doesn't enjoy some of the modern music, etc., if it brings the younger people in to hear the Word, then we need to accept it.  Actually, that's the main reason we have two services every week - one modern and one more traditional, although there is some over-lapping in both of them.

Hi everyone.  A sunny but cool 30 degrees at the moment in Georgia.

I have been to coffee, went to the Credit Union to get some cash and then stopped at Kroger's.  Not feeling up to par this morning so plan to stay in and rest the rest of the day.  Nothing serious so please don't be concerned as sure I will soon feel better.

Janet, so sorry to read of the fall your sister had and the broken hip.  Hopefully she will soon be on the mend.  I bet they will have her up by tomorrow, once the surgery is performed.  When you said you were working in the unit is this something other than cooking or do they have separate kitchens for each unit?  Sure glad that Beth doesn't have the shingles.

Interesting discussion on calling a pastor.  Our church has a very set way to call a pastor and it is quite a process.  Our youth pastor of 14 years announced this last week that he is accepting another call in the area so we will be seeking a part-time youth pastor this year. 

Etta Sue, I have read several books on the Kindle application I have on my iPod Touch and it is fine.  However, must admit I find the eBook reader a bit more enjoyable as it is more like reading a page of the paper book in that more is displayed on each screen due to the larger screen. 

Marilyn, I have never compressed any of my files so you are ahead of me in that regard. 

Good Morning from the cold Oregon coast. It is 34° according to the temp thing on my monitor screen.

I have been to the gym and am ready to go to the Dr. for a check up on my hand. I still can only touch the first two fingers with  that thumb, I don't know how long if ever i will have full flexibility in than hand.

My friend Willa in McKinleyville is very sick, I just spent a half an hour on the phone with her daughter. She has two bacterial infections in her body and her gall bladder if inflamed. She will have to have surgery but  they can't get her in until Thursday. She is 85 now but still very active, her potassium level is way to low and they are worried that it might cause her heart to  beat erratically or cause a stroke.  Please pray for her.

Kristena my friend and nail stylist is coming this afternoon to do my nails, it sure is nice that  she can come here. She hasn't got a shop set up yet but is  getting things ready in a tanning salon just a few blocks from where I live right on 101.

Etta Sue did you really mean that Kitty has NEVER eaten Chinese food. Oh my That is odd. But yes it is healthier than Mexican food depending on what you  eat in Mexican food. 

Hello to everyone who checks in today. We are sure down in the numbers who post in this thread. Lots of people post in photos, I wish some of them would  come over here to post too

Al in reading Last night I came up with verses I am sure I have read before, but they were nw to me this time.
Genesis 14:3...... All these were joined together in the vale of Siddim which is the salt sea.  Is that sea now called the Dead Sea?  Never noticed that before.
also:
Verse 10.  The Vale of siddim was full of slime pits.  Another translation calls these pits asphalt pits.  Now were/are these pits what we would consider to be oil reserves?  A commentary says these were submerged under the Dead Sea.

Pat's son has challenged friends to read through the KJV in a year as it is the 400th anniversary of the translation.  I have accepted this challenge, and it is surprising what I have found in a book I have read often.

The sun is shining and everything is sparkling  with the layer of fresh snow.  Al the dogs are content to be inside where it is warm.

I am working on a X-stitch .  The main part is done but the more intricate part is a butterfly and flowers.  Thankfully it is bright outside which makes seeing the material easier.

Back to work, Have a great day everyone.

I've gone back - again - to the schedule in Halley's.  This time I'm using the NIV translation in Thompson's Chain Reference which I didn't have for my earlier reads.  This may take quite a bit longer than a year, what with all the cross references!   :)

Jeanne sounds like you have my problem.  I cannot "just read" the Bible.  I look at words and try to discover meanings.  I know I will get bogged down, but it is fun to do the word studies.

Janet:  Blessings and prayers for your sister, Doris.  I had a SIL named Doris and remember her fondly.  It is a miracle that the young couple found Doris in time and stepped in to help.  See - angels are around us all the time. 

Larry:  I have an iPod and only download audio books but I could read text.  This suits me just fine because I can listen and do something else as there are so many interruptions - why, I really do not know but there is always something. 

Pastors:  We do love our pastors and expect too much from them. 

The group at knitting consisted of about 20 or more and I got expert help with my sweater project. 

It is fifty-two degrees F. right now in Arizona.  Not a cloud in the sky.  My cousin from north of Seattle made it safely to southern AZ with his trailer.  No more volunteering for him at the orphanage in Mexico as it is much too dangerous to travel.  He feels badly about it but that is a good decision right now. 

Hi everyone.  I have a couple of minutes before leaving for coffee and then we have a full day planned.  Pat is seeing the eye doctor that did her cataract surgery for the 5 month checkup.  She has done well with her eyes and this will likely be the last time we have to make this trip across the city to see this doctor.  We will use our own Dr. that is close by and who has been our eye doctor for a number of years.

From the eye doctor we plan on meeting our daughter at the Mellow Mushroom pizza place.  She can get there in her wheelchair and it is a good place to meet.  We can have a nice leisurely lunch and visit.  Then this evening I have a business meeting to attend that I have been preparing for this past week. 

Carol, too bad that Mexico has become so dangerous that the missionaries cannot go there and provide help to the people.

Larry, for someone who claims to be "taking it easy" you sure are busy!   :D

Another chilly, sunny day today.  The light coating of snow from yesterday's flurries is gone except in very shady spots. 

My good news for today is that the dentist's office called and I will go tomorrow morning to (hopefully) get my new teeth.  I'll be able to eat the vegetables in vegetable soup, and enjoy the banana nut and date nut bread that's been waiting in my refrigerator since Christmas!  Hooray!

Way to go Jeanne, I know how your feel.

I woke up singing this within my spirit this morning.  Google it and listen to the words and music....I guarantee you will enjoy!

   
   
  http://mp3lyrics.org/cbP



Al Denson Take me to the Cross Lyrics:
She's daddy's little girl
Only three years old
All dressed up in her Sunday clothes
He held her hand on bended knee
He said
I need to show you how to
find your way home
As they walked along
How sweet the sound
Church bells ringin'
People gathered 'round
Remember this church
And the cross way up there
Sweetheart, if you ever get lost say
Take me to the cross
High upon a steeple
The one where Jesus died for
all the lost people
If you can't find home
Know you're not alone
Take me to the cross
As the years went by
Daddy's little girl
Lost herself out in a big, big world

And the day her daddy died
She said I need to know why
Take me to the cross
High upon a steeple
The one where Jesus died
for hurting people
If you can't find home
Know you're not alone
Take me to the cross

Now that same little girl
Thirty years gone by
She still knows here
daddy's by her side
She raises her little boy
In her father's way
And she smiles
When she hears her son say
Hey, mom
Take me to the cross
High upon a steeple
The one where Jesus died for
all the lost people
If you can't find home
Know you're not alone
Take me to the cross
High upon a steeple
The one where Jesus died for
all the lost people
If you can't find home
Know you're not alone
Take me to the cross
Mama, take me to the cross
Take me to the cross

Marilyn ~ I think Kitty has eaten some Chinese food but not in a Chinese restaurant.  Perhaps in other restaurants where they have Asian Chicken, stir fry or such.  I never had Chinese food until my husband passed away.  He wouldn't eat it because he said there was celery in it.  I see very little celery in Chinese food here.

Here it is afternoon already and I haven't done much of anything worthwhile.  Like being stuck in the mud...spinning my tires and not getting anywhere! 

First, my insurance man came.  I got a different company for my supplement insurance with a cheaper premium.  Then he tried to get me to put my money into an annitized annuity.  Not sure if those are the right words but I wouldn't be the owner of MY money, the company would be.  But IF I were to go to a nursing home after 5 years, the nursing home couldn't get my money.  Five years are Indiana's law.  But if I needed money like to buy a new car, I couldn't get it.  I would have to use the monthly money I would get from MY money to make payments.  Don't like that.  So I guess what I am saying, I have my home and my savings to take care of me when I am old...haha!  When that runs out, I guess the government will take care of me if I am not in Jesus' arms yet!  Insurance is a big gamble.  But I just don't like the thought of MY money not being MINE and readily available to ME.

Then my friend, Rex, in Mexico Skyed me.  We talked for about an hour.  His family has been in Los Mochis since before Christmas and just got back to Magdelena last night. 

The heat pump still isn't fixed.  Seems he put in a call to the tech and he didn't call back.  The guy was here for almost 3 hours but had to leave to another job.  All he needed was numbers of how much freon and the pressure.  He also wonders if it isn't a board in the compressor gone bad.  Anyway, still using my furnace and fireplace to keep warm. 

Beef and Boards was good last night.  "The 25th Putnam County Spelling Bee".  Adults playing kids at a spelling bee.  Cute but not the best show!  The next show is Hairspray.  Sounds like singing and dancing.  I like those shows.

Off I go>>>>>

Etta Sue hairspray is singing and Dancing. I saw the Movie that was made of the stage production with John Travolta as a woman. It was hilarious.

I have been to Coquille to take Happy to the Vet, I am doing all the right things for Happy but he wants me to bathe him once a week with head and Shoulders. He still has the skin fungus that we have been dealing with since last March. The Dr. called  his meds in to Wal-Mart where I can get it $10 cheaper that what the Vet charges.

Jeanne I am so sorry to hear about your Daughter In Law.

Etta Sue - thank you for reminding me about your question re/Gen. 14.3.  I looked up "Siddim," "Salt Ses," etc., and guess what - nothing!  I too have heard that the "slime pits" were asphalt pits, and that's as reasonable as anything.  But I'm afraid I can't help you much (see - pastors don't know everything!).  God bless you in your reading, and keep asking - I might get something right after all!

Thanks Al Much appreciated.  Amazing what you "find" in a familiar passage.

Hello and good evening

I have been away from CP for a few days so it does take time to catch.
Janet: So sorry to know that your sister is not well but I do trust that recovery will be reasonably fast.
Larry:  It is good that you will or did have a visit with your daughter.

I have got back to normal after my little slide to the floor. In fact we went to Cloverdale Mall for the first time in many many years it I am sure has gone through some changes but I do not remember what they had then, now they have a Winners, Zellers, Metro(groceries) Home Hardware, all of these are large stores then you have the little one to fill up the spaces, a small food court, Tim Horton's ( coffee & sweets), Second Cup(coffee) and the rest are shoes, clothes, and ????????, But what I found nice and interesting was that most of the folk were seniors and as friendly as can be just such a lovely atmosphere.

They have a sewing store that I had been told about much like one that I go to in Brampton the store owners in both are very very personable only they sell different sewing machine and serger names. 

The Canada vs Russia Hockey game in on TV so that is were I will be spending the rest of the evening.

Whew!  Busy day!  And I wasn't working on the job.

Good news!  My Bro-in-law called last night after Sis was out of Recovery, and I got to talk to her.  She sounded great!  Said she was still freezing, couldn't seem to get warm, even with the heated blankets that feel so good.  She said the pain was still pretty severe, but a different pain, like a burning in the flesh, different from the pain of broken bones.

Thank you all for praying for my sweet sister Doris.  I will not forget your kindness!

Jeanne, glad you will soon have your "chompers" and can eat "lumps!"

Darrel and I made a fast trip to Garden City this afternoon as he ran out of window envelopes while doing the statements.  I needed to take some things back I bought him for Christmas that didn't work.  And I got some Keen shoes at about half price!!

I shouldn't have answered the phone a while ago.  But I did, and now I have to work tomorrow.  I didn't want to, as have some things I needed/wanted to do.  But I will work.

See you another day!

Hi everyone.  No rain today after a rainy late afternoon and evening yesterday. 

It was a busy day yesterday and as soon as I got home from my evening meeting I went to bed as wasn't feeling very good yesterday.  Fortunately today I don't have anyplace I need to go so will just work at a leisurely pace here at my desk as have several projects to work on.  It should be the same tomorrow.

Janet, I have been told that No is a complete sentence.  :)  You are certainly a reliable employee and I am sure you are appreciated because of it at your work.  Glad to hear that you sister's operation is over and she can begin her recovery.  I expect they will have her up on her feet today.

Ruth, glad you are over the effects of your fall.  Like you I haven't been in a mall for a long time and may never be again as they are so tiring.  Even the big box stores that stand alone can be so wearisome.  I am sure we will be doing more and more buying over the Internet.  Unfortunately we can't avoid the grocery stores.  At least at Sam's Club and Walmart a person can ride one of the carts and that really helps.

Judy, I just remembered that I told you I would try to find the music for a song you would like to have for our hymn collection.  Unfortunately, it slipped my mind.  Can you recall what it was and this time I will make a note so I don't forget. 

Al, it is unfortunate that we often hold our pastors up to a very high standard of expectation in terms of knowledge.  I am often amazed at the recall our pastor has as we do our Bible studies.

Marilyn, does your dog give you a hard time when you bathe him?  If I recall correctly dogs like to shake themselves when they get wet.

Etta Sue, I would say you made a very wise decision on the annuity.  They sound great until you realize you no longer have access to your money.  The selling agent also benefits greatly from the sale of annuities.  We saved the money for our retirement and you are like me this is our retirement time.  It is hard for me to realize I have been returned over 15 years.  Where has the time gone.

Jeanne, I know you will be delighted to eat a lot of things you haven't been able to once you get your teeth.  Glad the waiting is over for you.

The more I think about the annitized annuity the less I like it.  He had two.  One, no one could get it...nursing homes, medicad, etc...but I also couldn't get more than they allowed for my monthly check.  I don't like that.  Even though I haven't gotten into that money for about 5 years, tomorrow I may need a big amount!  And if I died before it was all divvied out, my son got it.  The other was available to nursing homes, medicaid, etc. and I could get a larger amount...don't know how many times...but why let them use my money if they really aren't doing anything for me other than 1% higher interest?  If I died before all the money was given out, Tony would get the remaining.  No, I think I will gamble on myself.  If my home, land and money saved all has to go for myself being taken care of, then the government can do the rest!  Sorry, Tony.  And I will be retired 18 years this March!!

I do think it would be wise to deed my home to Tony though.  Or sell it to him for $1. 

And I did see 'Hairspray' at the movies.  I was thinking I had seen it somewhere but thought it was at Beef and Boards.  Now I remember John Travolta as a woman at the movies.  Also watched on TV the try-outs of the actors and actresses in the movie!  Love singing and dancing.  That's why I like 'Glee' on TV!

And Al, I was reading Genesis 25 today and had totally forgotten that Abraham married a second time after Sarah died and had at least 6 more children (maybe some daughters, too) but he gave everything to Issac.  When he died, Issac and Ishmael buried him.  So Abraham did have many descendants...even grandchildren.

Not much has happened since I last posted.  Today is a dismal day.  Cloudy and cool.  The news says some snow but I haven't seen any yet.  Don't need it anyway...

I need to make a trip to the bank and possibly Subway for lunch.  Since Subway is next to Dollar General, why not see if there is anything I can't live without?

I have been busy this morning, I went to the gym then to Walmart to pickup Happy's medicine, than I came home and baked a cake and have been doing some laundry since before breakfast this morning. I think the dryer needs a new heating element as it takes twice and 3 times as long to dry a load. So it takes all day to do  3-4 loads. I have to take all the pots and pans out of the cupboard under the cooktop so Keith can get under there and see if he can fix it. I only have two burners that are working and those are the big burners. I really would like to have a new ceramic radiant heat cooktop.

Janet glad to hear some good news about Doris. I spoke to Willa this morning she is still in a lot of pain but goes to see the surgeon today.

time to go get another load out of the dryer.

Larry I don't remember what I had for dinner last night.....No I have no clue!  Not to worry it will come to one of us.

Eta Sue I read that about Abraham remarrying too.  I wonder if that is why there is so much ill will toward the jewish people in general.... Jealousy over inheritance from way back then, and today they don't even know why!  I am nearly at the end of Genesis. 

It has been a cloudy overcast day but mild.  I was out but didn't wear a coat, just a swearshirt hoody.

Got all my errands done on the phone and in town.  So now to take it a bit easy.

I had a brief message ready and now all is gone.

We are to have snow this evening and into tomorrow.
Have a great evening.

Ruth, I hate when that happens.  So glad you weren't seriously hurt in your fall.  Happy New Year to you!

Marilyn, I hope Willa is better tonight.

Mom was refusing her meds today.  She refused three times, then the fourthtime, she took them.  She has stopped feeding herself, and is only eating a very few bites that they feed her.  She knows me, but I have to get my face within inches of hers before she can tell who I am.  She just wants to go on home.......... :(

Beth got another big package from John today.  It was FOUR of those twisty pillows they have been advertising on TV.  FOUR!!  She told me to take one home, so I did.  I guess he thought she could use one for her head, one between her feet, and one on either side of her!  :)  He is SO thoughtful.

Things are not going well at the Care Home.  The administration and head nurses (DON) are firing the best people, and they have cut hours to the point people can't make it.  This week the entire Chaplains staff resigned.  They cut their hours to 20 hours per week--divided between THREE people.  And they can't get all their work done in 40 hours!  Something is going to have to change, or they soon won't have enough people to care for the residents. The chaplaincy is SO important, and the residents love them.  Also, they help with church services on Sundays, Mass on another day, and numerous Bible studies.  They do a lot of one-on-one things with the residents, too.

Janet Willa was to see the surgeon today. I spoke to her this morning and she was feeling pretty bad but had eaten an egg and some toast that stayed down. They  finally gave her anti-nausea pills. She has to stay on top of the pain by taking her pain meds  on time. I will call again tomorrow . Thank you for asking.

No time here, just saying hello & take care. 

Ruth:  Did you cheer for Canada or Russia at the hockey game?   ::)

Yippee!  I get to stay home today!  Well, part of it, anyway, have errands that didn't get done yesterday still to do.  Also have a Chiropractor app't. at 1:30.  Then Pat will do my hair, always a good thing!

My Sis Doris was able to get up and go to the bathroom yesterday afternoon with no pain, praise the Lord!  And thanks again for your prayers.  Prayers avail much.

See you later.

My little church started reading the Bible in a year last April so we started in one of the Kings or Samuels...I can't remember which.  So January we started with Genesis.  I am two days ahead of schedule.  Tomorrow I read Gen 29 and 30.  I am reading on the Droid.  I have an app that is 44 versions of the Bible in 22 languages.  I love it with the black background and white letters...easier on the eyes and you can change the font size to suit you also.  Easy to use.  It is called 'Live Bible'. 

Not much going on today.  Cold.  23 degrees.  No wind and cloudy.  I haven't heard anything from the heat pump guy.  Just hope the furnace isn't guzzling bottle gas.  And the meter man came to read the electric meter while I was reading my Bible.  $$$  I will be glad when spring comes $-wise!

My mother passed away 10 years ago today!  I miss her but also know she is in the loving arms of our Lord.

Hi everyone.  A cloudy 39 degrees here in Georgia.  I have another with a light schedule.  Spent part of the morning trying to clear up an insurance matter from my last hospitalization.  Now have to write an appear letter to Kaiser since the ER doctor where I was first sent isn't a contracted doctor with Kaiser.  They paid him a lump sum and he is now billing me for interpreting the EKG and the chest X-Ray, even though Kaiser paid him a lump sum for his services.  Fortunately, it is not a large amount of money but the principle of the thing.

Janet, does Kansas have a governmental body that keeps tabs on nursing homes?  It would seems they could lose their license to operate if they do not provide proper care.  It is sad about the chaplain service.  I saw that in operation at the last nursing home my folks were in and they were wonderful and caring, as was the staff.  Having big corporations own nursing homes is not a great idea as it seems to become all about money and not the patient care.  Glad you have a day off today.  Good news on your sister's recovery.

Hi Carol.

Marilyn, is Keith a handyman type person?  Sorry to hear of the pain that Willa is experiencing.

Ruth, please don't send that snow towards Georgia, we don't want it.

Judy, guess it can't be too important if neither of us can remember.  I do remember not being optimistic about finding the music on such a new song.

Etta Sue, I agree with you completely on the annuity matter.  I may not do a great job of managing my resources, but at least I know what I have and can get access to them if I have to do so.  These are scary times in terms of what value our money will have in the future with the talk of inflation and devaluing the currency.  Like you, I have been retired for going on 16 years and we have managed pretty well.

Larry Keith is the handyman type of person, he fixes a lot of things. He tells me he has replaced the  element in the dryer a couple of times, I think it needs to be replaced again. Last evening he tried to get the cooktop to come out of the hole but it is pretty well stuck with all the  crud surrounding the cooktop edge. I have tried to get the crud out but without lifting the top.

I have bathed both dogs this morning, the vet wants me to bath Happy once a week. that is not a chore I am in favor of. He fights me most of the time he is in the tub trying to get out.

Gotta go now and fix lunch for Keith.

Hi everyone.  I see it has been quiet since I posted yesterday morning with just Marilyn stopping by to share with us. 

It is a chilly 34 degrees but they say it feels like 26 degrees this morning.  We are under an advisory that we will get snow tomorrow night and Monday and it may turn to ice.  Not looking forward to that but will just stay in if the roads get bad.  I have nothing that I can't miss.

Last evening Pat and I went to the Texas Roadhouse for dinner.  They always have good food and the place was packed.  Unfortunately, it is very noisy in there with music playing and it full of people.  By the time we left people were waiting to get in the door plus a lot of people waiting inside to be called to a table.  As we left I felt a tap on my shoulder and it was our step grandson's wife and then he joined her.  They were celebrating their wedding anniversary so didn't have the little one with them.  We visited outside for several minutes and hope they will stop over soon with our great grandson. 

I don't have a lot planned today.  Will have coffee in a few minutes, then attend a meeting, and then rest and watch football this afternoon.  I did finish reading an interesting book by Andre Agassi, which is his autobiography.  I found it interesting.

Hope everyone has a good day, I plan to do so.

Good morning, Larry!  Hope you don't get the bad weather.  They are predicting very cold for us, plus snow along about Monday.  I just wait and see; most of the predictions this winter haven't come to pass.  Glad you got to see your relatives at the restaurant.

I am getting ready to leave for my once a month painting meeting.  It will be a nice break after a hectic week.  Tonight we will attend a 50th birthday party for one of the board members of our church, should be fun.

Yesterday my sister Jeanie and I went to the mortuary and talked to them about prices, looked at caskets, etc.  Much less stressful now than later, I think.  Goodness, those prices are outrageous!! :o  They included a vault--stainless steel liner in concrete, for ONLY $3,750 more.  I said, "We don't need a vault, it isn't required where she will be buried."  The lady said Oh, but you need it to protect the casket!  And I asked, WHY?  It's not like we're going to use it again!  I realize funeral services are a specialized field, but boy, it seems to me they take advantage of families at their most vulnerable times.  Okay, I'm through venting.  :-\

My sister Doris is doing really well!  I talked to her last night and they had moved her from the hospital to rehab.  They will let her rest and recover today and tomorrow, then Monday rehab starts--whole body rehab.  They said just those few days in the hospital, she has lost a lot of muscle.  She was cheerful and positive, so I feel better about her now.  Thanks again for the prayers for her.

I must get on the road!

Yesterday's forecast/warning was for 1-6 inches of snow last night and all day today.  As of right now, there is 12 inches of snow on my front deck.   :o

Funeral services are a must but must they be so costly?  And a vault that is guaranteed to not leak for 20 years?  Who cares and who will find out if that guarantee is broken?  It was almost $10,000 for my husband for the funeral, the plot, the burial and tombstone and that was almost 20 years ago. 

I just noticed that it is only 9 degrees and it is sunny so probably it was colder earlier. Brrr!  We had snow last night so everything is white and sparkly!

Not much planned today but keeping warm!! 

I have been reading Janet's book and enjoying it very much.  Easy reading but kind of hard on my eyes since I am reading it on Droid.

Janet, good for you and your sister in doing some advance planning and arranging.  While we didn't do that with my father, at the time of his death while we were at the funeral home we did go ahead and make arrangements for mother.  My daughter-in-law recently lost her mother and they paid over $15,000 for the funeral.  Many people in our church are now going to cremation and a nice memorial celebration of life service at the church.  Hope you have a great time at the painting class.

Etta Sue, I bet you never turned pages in a book as fast as you did on the Droid.  I just finished a book on my iPod Touch and it made a book of 300 plus pages into one of over 3,300 pages but you could read through them very quickly because there was only a few sentences per page.

Jeanne, you never know how much snow is going to occur until it stops.  We haven't had a real bad storm in the Atlanta area in several years.  In a few minutes we are going to buy a new small kerosene heater.  I brought in our old one and I don't feel it is safe anymore.  I also need one that is lighter in weight as had to pull this one onto a hard cart and then tip it to get it over the rise on the porch and kerosene poured out.  Fortunately it is on the porch or Pat opened on of the windows to let the fumes get out.  The new one won't heat the whole house but will heat our family room so we should be able to stay warm.  I just hope we won't need to use it.

Janet people seem to take advantage of us at our most vulnerable.  That is sad.

Well I am back home after a fast trip to Guelph and a short visit with Pat.

I have shoulder surgery on the 17th of this month.  I am looking forward to being able to use my arm again, but not the meds I will need to control pain.

The Van we have was not reliable, there was more rust than there was van, and mechanically it left much to be desired.  It had all the bells and whistles that a person could want and grew to love them, the bells and whistles.

A young lad in Powassan promised me I would have a new to me vehicle by thursday.  On Wednesday night the car he had seen a real beautie, he had recected, because the owner had proven to be dishonest and he wanted to provide reliability.  That left me out in the cold, wondering how I was going to get down to my appointment at the hospital.  He (Greg) assured me that I would be able to use one of his vehicles.  So the trip was on.  On thursday I went back, not wanting to appear pushy or panicy I went in to see which vehicle I would use.  Greg found a Neon that was immaculate and in my price range, with little to no work needed to certify.  He changed brakes, all fluids checked everything out and there was nothing he needed to fix!!!  I have my car!  We ran it to Guelph and it was amazing how nicely it ran.  There are 3 little minor things that I will tell him about, but I now have a car that runs economicaally, has been rust checked, has all the maintenance records in it, and is safe to drive.   Talk about God answering prayer in the 11:59th hour!

Judy, the 11:59th hour is His timing!   :D  Congratulations on getting a car - and one you can be happy with. 

We were gifted with snow over night and looking out the window we now have sun and the just a few flakes drifting down.

Judy:  Glad you got the just right veh.
Carol:  I cheered for Canada but in the end they did loose but the Russian behavior was not anything for their country to be proud of.

The laundry I am about to start doing.
I am finding that the laundry now gets done on Saturday in order to save on the hydro bill and it is also the way we are also billed, it seems to be one of the best times to save energy.

It is also time for lunch and even a cup of  :coffee:

I have been watching FOX news about the Congresswoman from AZ and all the tragedy that took place in AZ , The 15 people who were shot and the once who have lost their lives.

We went to the local Maytag store and bought a new cooktop, exactly what I had been looking at online, it cost less than the exact one I saw online from Sears.  However the hole it goes in is just a little too small so Keith is  having to  cut  it bigger to fit the new cooktop. He is on his way to Walmart to buy a new blade for his jigsaw. He has to cut through Formica as well as the wood.

Just good to hear that you got a new to you car. We are Chevy people, and are looking to buy a Van, but the ones we have seen around her have been Fords, Keith will not buy a Ford. He wants one that the back seat folds down into a bed. I want the RV type that has a bathroom. If we are going to travel by van to North Carolina I want  a built in potty. for now it is all talk.

Janet my son has ask me if I have enough  life insurance to pay for my funeral. at those prices "no I don't." When I had my hand surgery the hospital ask me to fill out the Advanced Directive, which I still haven't done.

Hello again!  I'm home from my day of painting, and now we will go to the birthday party.

Darrel's sister called him today to tell him his mother is in ICU with heart trouble.  :(

Thanks for the comments re funerals.  Looking at the price list we were given, doesn't seem as if cremation would save much, either.  And Mom would never opt for that if she had a say.

Etta Sue.....Janet's book?  Do you mean the one I mentioned..Heaven is for Real?  I loved that one!

We are checking on the people shot at a supermarket parking lot in Tucson.  A very sad situation.  Praying for all the families and friends. 

Tonight, we need to remember to watch a podcast or maybe it is called a live streaming show of our grandson's team in Minnesota.  They have won 23 and lost two.  Nice.  And, they are mannerly boys.  Before and after the games, they are in suits and ties and I think that tends to help them stay cool headed.  Most important is that they have to study all the time. 

We did my favorite thing and that is we checked out two great thrift shops today.  One is for a hospice charity and I was able to pick up a veggie peeler, grater, can opener and 4 small glasses.  Then, we found a beautiful oil painting on sale for under $20 & it is just perfect for the living room. A chair for $4 is now in front of the tiny space for the sewing machine.  Perfect.  Went out for coffee too so it was a nice uneventful day for us while we learned to navigate the area a little more.  Tomorrow is early church and we do wish it could be a little later but the music is too jivey & loud for Don at the celebration service. 

Janet:  It is good to hear that your sister is doing better. 

Larry:  I hope that they bring your grandson over to visit as well.

Sorry, must go and watch a movie and then grandson's hockey on the computer.  We hope!!!

Yes, I finished 'Heaven is for Real' and immediately went to YouTube and searched for 'Akiane Karmaki'.  What beautiful paintings for such a young girl.  And if Colton and Akiane are right we know what Jesus looks like before we get to heaven! 

And Larry, you can sure turn pages quick on the Droid.  Give the term 'page turner' a new meaning!

Ivalou isn't going to go to church this morning.  Her arm hurt all night and she is afraid someone will bump into her causing it to hurt more.  She has been telling me it doesn't hurt at night so I don't know what is going on! 

It is cold and sunny...8 degrees!  I have on a crocheted sweater that I made so I feel like I have an afghan on me!!  I should be warm at church.

Hi everyone. 

It is a cold 19 degrees and we have a severe weather alert for the Atlanta area starting as snow and then turning into ice.  Yesterday we decided to get a new kerosene heater.  It is a small one, only 10,000 BTU so won't keep the entire house warm, but should provide some heat.  I would hate to have to use much kerosene for fuel as it was almost $20 for 4 gallons but will be worth every penny if needed.  We ran it for almost 4 hours last evening to get the initial odor, that the book said was normal, out of the way before we bring it into the house. 

I will be perfectly happy if it is not needed but the last ice storm we had left us without power for over 3 days.  We have plenty of food and will be fine until the roads are clear again.  So if I disappear from here for a few days just know it is because we have lost power.

We cancelled our weekly men's luncheon on Monday as probably wouldn't be able to get out anyway and acting in advance removes all doubt for those who attend. 

Am ready for church.  I missed choir practice Wednesday night but have practiced the anthem several times so should not have any particular problem singing it this morning.

Judy, glad for you finding the right car just as you needed it.  When we put our trust in God he provides for our needs when we need them filled.

Etta Sue, you really feel like you are making a lot of progress on your book to see the pages fly by even though it may take three or four little pages to equal one regular size page.  The application I used from our library is called Overdrive and it tracks the number of pages it is going to display at the bottom so you can easily follow it.  My e-book reader has that feature but you have to tap at the top to see it so you are not distracted from your book.  Sure hope that it is nothing serious with Ivalou.  Did you get a lot of snow last night. 

Carol, is your son in a special soccer school? it sounds like they have a wonderful team and must have good leadership.  It sounds like you are enjoying your time in Arizona.  The shootings yesterday were certainly a tragedy.  It seems a miracle that the Congresswoman has survived so far.  Also so sad about the other deaths and severe injuries.

Janet, in Georgia there is a cremation society.  For a very nominal fee you join the society and when the time comes you just call them and they take things from there.  You can prepay the cost, which is really reasonable, and Pat and I have done this as it locks in the cost.  If the services are not used for some reason the money is returned with interest as it has to be deposited into a trust account in accordance with State law.  We really saw no downside to it for our situation and it will remove the burden from our children.  However, it is certainly a personal decision and I understand that many people do not like the idea.  Do hope Darrel's mother will quickly respond to treatment and not have to be hospitalized too long.

Marilyn, way to go on the new cooktop and I hope you really like it.

Ruth, do you have different hydro rates for the weekends? 

Jeanne, are you adjusting to the new teeth? 

The stories from Tucson shooting are so sad and now it turns out we know that Safeway store & the bank inside very very well.  Some day we will drive down to see how everyone is doing. Hockey is the game & they won both games yesterday.  Today, is another game with the same team from Canada.  They are all kids & he is 15 years old.   

Larry:  Be extra careful  with that kerosene.  It sounds like you lose your power and 3 days is much too long.  We have underground electricity and don't have the problems associated with weather. 
Hockey is the game & they won both games yesterday.  Today, is another game with the same team from Canada.  They are all kids & he is 15 years old.  It is a great educational school first and foremost.

I just can't stop thinking about all the people wounded or killed yesterday by merely being in the wrong place at the wrong time.  Praying that this will strengthen faith in all hearts.   

Carol, kudos to your grandson's team!  So nice that you can watch the games from afar.

I think it is miraculous that the congresswoman survived being shot through the head!  So sad about the others who weren't protected.  What is happening in our country?   :(

Larry, maybe you won't get the severe weather predicted.  And maybe we won't either!  So far, nothing here except cold.  When we got out of church it was 36*, so not too bad.

We had fun at the birthday party last night.  When those folks get all their relatives together, there's sure a bunch of them!  And then add a lot of people from church, and there was a room full.

We went by the care home to check on Beth and Mom after church, so I am hoping not to have to get out again today.

Read through the paperwork from the hospital.  I am only allowed one person at the hospital with me.  I am so thanful for John.

JudyB:  Prayers for your hospital procedure.  One person visiting - they must be concerned about the flu or something.  That is fine.  Too many people bring too many germs and you don't want to catch something there.  Take care. 

Time for a new week HERE (http://www.christianphotographers.com/community/index.php?topic=11355.0)