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Thank you Judy for the devotional today. It looks like I am first to post here today. It a good feeling to be nice to people even when they are not so nice to you. Turn the other Cheek when they are critical of something you have said or done. Let God deal with them.

I am making French Bread in my machine to have with Eggplant Parmigiana for supper, it sure smells good. Keith and I took the dogs for a walk, a little while ago and he should have put his jacket on, he only had on a sweatshirt. We cut the walk short because he was cold.

I keep telling my kids "It never hurts to be kind".

Heavy schedule tomorrow.  So I am off to bed.

Cloudy and "cool" today.  The rain we were supposed to get this afternoon has been pushed back to tonight and the amount has apparently also been reduced.  Since I need to do some driving over the mountain to see about a washing machine, I'm glad at least I won't have to contend with rain.  Thank you Lord, for looking out for my comfort as well as my safety.

Hi everyone.  Not much to write about this morning.  I will be doing just the normal Monday activities.  It is the day for the housekeepers to be here but doubt that the yard folks will be as they will come only once a month during the 3 winter months.  Just back from walking about 13 rounds at the gym.

Good devotional thought for the week Judy.  Thanks.  The idea of smiling at people really does work.  I try to smile at the people I meet whether we speak or not and most often my smile is returned with a smile.  I very often will speak a word or two and again this is often returned with a word or two.  I am only responsible for what I do and not what is returned.

Marilyn, would love to have a slice of your French bread.  That is my very favorite as like the crust.  However, you can eat my portion of the eggplant parmigiana.  :)

Jeanne, glad you were able to get a good nights sleep but still catch your program yesterday.  Hopefully your trip over the mountain will be most successful and not having to deal with wet roads is a big plus.   

 A good friend shared this with me this morning and I want to share it with you.  I believe it is worth the read:


Once there were three trees on a hill in the woods. They were discussing their hopes and dreams when the first tree said, 'Someday I hope to be a treasure chest. I could be filled with gold, silver and precious gems. I could be decorated with intricate carving and everyone would see the beauty.'

Then the second tree said, 'Someday I will be a mighty ship. I will take Kings and queens across the waters and sail to the corners of the world. Everyone will feel safe in me because of the strength of my hull.'

Finally the third tree said, 'I want to grow to be the tallest and straightest Tree in the forest. People will see me on top of the hill and look up to my branches, and think of the heavens and God and how close to them I am reaching. I will be the greatest tree of all time and people will always remember me.'

After a few years of praying that their dreams would come true, a group of woodsmen came upon the trees. When one came to the first tree he said, 'This looks like a strong tree, I think I should be able to sell the wood to a carpenter, 'and he began cutting it down. The tree was happy, because he knew that the carpenter would make him into a treasure chest.

At the second tree the woodsman said, 'This looks like a strong tree. I should be able to sell it to the shipyard.' The second tree was happy Because he knew he was on his way to becoming a mighty ship.

When the woodsmen came upon the third tree, the tree was frightened because he knew that if they cut him down his dreams would not come true. One of the woodsmen said, 'I don't need anything special from my tree, I'll take this one,' and he cut it down.

When the first tree arrived at the carpenters, he was made into a feed box for animals. He was then placed in a barn and filled with hay. This was not at all what he had prayed for.

The second tree was cut and made into a small fishing boat. His dreams of being a mighty ship and carrying kings had come to an end.

The third tree was cut into large pieces, and left alone in the dark.

The years went by, and the trees forgot about their dreams.

Then one day, a man and woman came to the barn. She gave birth and they placed the baby in the hay in the feed box that was made from the first tree. The man wished that he could have made a crib for the baby, but this manger would have to do. The tree could feel the importance of this event and knew that it had held the greatest treasure of all time.

Years later, a group of men got in the fishing boat made from the second tree. One of them was tired and went to sleep. While they were out on the water, a great storm arose and the tree didn't think it was strong enough to keep the men safe. The men woke the sleeping man, and He stood and said 'Peace' and the storm stopped. At this time, the tree knew that it had carried the King of Kings in its boat.

Finally, someone came and got the third tree. It was carried through the streets as the people mocked the man who was carrying it. When they came to a stop, the man was nailed to the tree and raised in the air to die at the top of a hill. When Sunday came, the tree came to realize that it was strong enough to stand at the top of the hill and be as close to God as was possible, because Jesus had been crucified on it.

The moral of this story is that when things don't seem to be going your way, always know that God has a plan for you. If you place your trust in Him, God will give you great gifts.

Each of the trees got what they wanted, just not in the way they had imagined.

We don't always know what God's plans are for us. We just know that His Ways are not our ways, but His ways are always best.

I haven't counted yet but I am thinking we are going to have lots of items to donate to a Women's shelter in Noblesville from Crochet Angels.  I have a huge bag in the trunk of my car full!  And another lady brought another big bag of items to church yesterday!  And some haven't given me their items.  The deadline is this Sunday. 

I plan to have a table set up with all the items displayed so the church will see how busy our hands have been for others.  I hope to count them then and take pictures!

Church was great yesterday.  We didn't have our Sunday School lessons in time to prepare for the lesson at home but we did it at Sunday School.  Then three of us ladies went to Anderson for Art's Pizza.  I had pizza for dinner also!  Mmmmm!

I have some gifts to wrap for my Sunday School class.  We collected $700 to give to a needy family or several families in our area.  The school principal provided a bunch of wants, sizes, etc.  One lady...bless her heart...went shopping last Monday and Tuesday.  It was 50% off plus she had a coupon of 20% off.  She estimates that she got $1700 for $700!!!  Now the principal wants each item wrapped with the provided Christmas tree card on the outside showing what is in the package.  There were 48 gifts purchased!

Today is a gloomy, dreary day.  So it will be a great day to wrap gifts! 

And I need to go to the Dollar General before I go to the Church Council meeting this evening.  I am out of bread.  No bread machine at my house!  Kitty said I could borrow hers to try but she can't find the instructions or directions or recipes.  That wouldn't do me any good!

 :) Good day to all.   I am so glad that I am reading the posts as what they say about each one are so good.  The seniors way of Jesus Loves Me is so good and then the story about the tees that is so real and would be a wonderful story for children to here.  Thank you for them.

Judy B: Thanks for the devotional and that makes you also think about the times that we may not have been kind to some people :)

Larry: I wish that I could do 13 rounds on the track but my silly old back seems to hurt to soon when I try. but keep it up. :thumbsup:

This weekend we had a live nativity scene at our church with live animals and it went very well we had app. 160 cars come through when they enter the driveway they get a C.D. and play it at the first scene then a chime comes on and that means that they move to the next scene so it went well and last night was the only night that it rained but we kept going praise the Lord for all who came through and we pray that all those who went through saw the true meaning about Christmas. There were a lot of children in the cars and many people that did not attend church . Praise the Lord for this op pertunity.

Janet: Good to see you got home safely but what a long trip catch up on your sleep.

Well must go for now.  Have a wonderful week and may the Lord bless each one of you on C.P.  :thumbsup: :cp: :bananadance: :rocker:

My grand daughter in South Carolina called me the other day and she is 3 months pregnant, but thinks she will probably have another miscarriage. She is a heroin addict and has Hepatitis C so it would probably be better if she  did miscarry. Please pray that Kim will make the right decision and get herself into rehab and get the treatments she needs. She is 26 years old and has already had numerous miscarriages.

Marilyn:  What a shock to be told the situation of your granddaughter.  May she have peace and comfort from all these prayers.

Janet:  That is a long trip and then for you to board a smaller plane & also drive home...... whew!  You are home safely - hooray!  Excuses and more excuses from the workers.  Take care now. 

I have spent all morning on relearning to make quilt labels on the computer.  Don shoveled the sidewalk because we had less than 2 in. of snow and it is bitter cold - I think a high of 11*F. today.  Yesterday, two friends and I drove to a birthday party for a fellow quilter & designer (she is 80 now).  When we got there, a group of even older and wiser women were following the Broncos football game & they didn't want it shut down.  Broncos won with a field goal at last minute & you would have loved seeing the ladies shouting and cheering hooray.  The last five games have been won at the very end and it is just wonderful to have some great and good news after all the horrible news out there. 

This is as cold as Minnesota used to be right now. 

Have you heard the news that a study says women who have had 4 children have fewer heart attacks?  I hope so - the children gave me a few heart attacks when they were growing up  ;D 

I agree with that last post1! My 4 children also gave me a full share of stresses. Now I'm praying for my 2 granddaughters and for my tiny little great grandsons.

May our Lord bless each of you real good!!

Ruth Ann Bice

May I cry on your collective shoulders for a few minutes?  Thanks (And you may feel free to skip this if you want!)  Today was one of those really rough ones!  I don't even know how she knew I was home, but Debra (my boss at the care home) called last night and asked me to work today.  I woke up at 3:30 and never got back to sleep; was at work at 6:00, everything went so well during breakfast.  One dear lady I have become so fond of was in a great mood, was so pleased that I made pancakes just for her, chatted and visited........then, at lunch, when I took the salad bar around, she wanted some little cheese cubes and some diced beets.  Almost immediately, she called out something and I turned and her eyes were just terrified!  I thought she was having a seizure, the nurses and CNAs surrounded her, about six of them, and the other RNs came running; the ambulance was called, but Myrtle was dead before they could get her back to her room.  And I was told she choked to death on what I gave her.  I was really upset, to say the least!

I managed to finish serving lunch, clean up, find Beth's good blouses that had been taken to the laundry but she wanted me to wash them, read Beth a story, and I came home.  I went to bed and slept a little, so tired and troubled in spirit.  Later, Debra called to tell me they had a meeting of the nursing staff and her, and that Myrtle did NOT choke; she stroked.  At least now I know it wasn't because of something I did.  What a day.  I was afraid Debra was going to ask me to work again, and I did not want to!  It was so hard to keep from crying in front of the residents.

But, even on the worst day ever at work, there came some good news!  They have ordered Beth a new wheelchair which is being built and modified especially for her needs.  It is very expensive, so they are going to rent it.  I told them I don't care if it's rented or purchased, as long as she has it to use!  That will make her life so much better, and make it easier on all of us who care for her, including them.  So I am thanking God about that!

I'm sorry this post is a downer, that's just the way my day went.  I think it will be another early night for Janet!  And maybe I can get back on track tomorrow---so much to do!

I will be back, and in a much more positive frame of mind, I promise.

 :)  Janet:  I have been at a few nursing homes as i did work at two and thank goodness that did not happen. I can just think how hard that was for you and how you felt but  praise the Lord that they told you that she had a stroke but it is so sad when she was so glad to see you first thing in the day. :thumbsup:

We have had a very gloomy day here and it has rained all day long but we are glad it is not snow.  Well not much more to say Noreen and I did not go out today at all I have been trying to finish the Christmas cards.  God bless.  Gordon and Noreen. :thumbsup: :cp: :pine:

{{{{{{HUGS JANET}}}}}}

Hi everyone.  I think it is going to be a dreary day here in Georgia with some showers predicted but still being above 65 before the day is over. My main activity this morning is to take my car in for an estimate of the damage from the little wreck last week.  The insurance company called me yesterday afternoon and was able to schedule the estimate and also schedule a rental car for me should one be needed.  I then have a meeting this morning to attend and should have the rest of the day free.

Etta Sue, it sounds like you have created a very productive knitting group.  I am sure the items will be well-used and appreciated.  The lady who got all of those gifts for others certainly must be a good shopper.  I bet you could find bread recipes for the bread machine on line.

Gord, some days I can walk as I did yesterday and the next day will bring on the angina in 4 or 5 rounds and have to stop.  However, it is important to keep trying. 

Marilyn, I do hope your granddaughter decides to seek help for herself as only she can make that decision.  Is she doing anything to treat the Hep C? 

Carol, winter has really hit your area.  Pat makes quilt labels on her machine and think she has to relearn the process each time she does it.  Believe me you don't have to have four children to bring on a lot of stress.  We have found that two can do the job very well. 

Janet, so sorry to hear of Myrtle's passing but is obviously was her time if she had a stroke that caused her death.  Sorry that you had to go through that period of stress thinking it was the cheese when it wasn't that at all.  Remember that "no" is a complete sentence and take care of yourself when asked to come to work and you don't feel like it. Good to read about the new wheelchair for Beth. 

Janet, what a day of emotional ups and downs you had.  Joy, fear, guilt, relief and gratitude.  I hope you can get some rest now.  It will surely take more than a couple of days to recover from your wonderful trip.

{{{{{{HUGGS JANET}}}}}}

Larry thank you for that story.  Needed to read that today.

MArilyn thank you for your devotion to this site.

Yestewrday was a really busy day for John and I .  A lot of answers were given putting us all at ease.  Something I haven't mentioned here, Kassie is pregnant with a little girl.  She is 17. We have seen the ultrasound.  The boyfriend is going into the military and it looks like he may be gone when the baby is born.  His parents want nothing to do with Kassie or the pregnancy.

Marilyn I have learned through the years that when the parents make a mistake, it is not the baby that is the mistake.  You have learned that as well I know.  I am praying for your grand daughter that she sees the error of her ways, gets into rehab, and delivers a healthy baby.  I will be praying for that baby, and your grand daughter.
So many derams are dashed when these kids let their morals down and make this mistake.  Kassie will be keeping the baby, and I have seen so much anger from her.  Anger that she didn't follow what she knew was right, anger that her future is gone, anget at the BF and anger at his parents.  This is all "stuff" that she will need to deal with as time goes by, as will others.  As far as the future goes I can see her determination pushing her through to follow the education route to provide the best for her child.

I guess you all know now why I have been so silent lately.

Have a good day folks.

 

Gord ~ I love those live Nativity scenes.  The idea of a CD would be great.  Sounds wonderful.

Marilyn ~ I can't imagine what your are going through with your granddaughter.  I can't imagine why anyone does that to their bodies let alone getting pregnant with a heroin addiction and Hepatitis.  Just proof that addictions take over all reasoning.

Carol ~ When friends talk about sports it seems they are speaking a foreign language.  I don't follow sports at all.  When my husband was alive, he watched every program that had an umpire, referee, score keeper, timer or judge.  I vowed when I had control of the remote, I wouldn't do that.  So far, I don't.  After 20 years, I don't think I have missed out too much!

Ruth Ann ~ I praise you for raising 4 children all alone!  And it sounds like you raised them to be upstanding citizens! 

Janet ~ I was thinking about what I was going to post to you and then read Jeanne's post.  I ditto what she said.  What emotions you had in a few minutes.  But your main emotion now should be joy.  Joy for making her last meal special...pancakes!  And as Larry says, 'No!' is a complete sentence.

Larry ~ Hope your car's ouchy doesn't cause you much inconvenience.  I am sure there will be some but hopefully not at your expense. 

JudyB ~ So sad to read about Kassie.  This too shall pass.  Her life isn't ruined.  This is a hiccup in her life journey.  She didn't make a mistake.  She made a wrong choice.  If the father and his parents are making this choice now, then they would be wrong for Kassie's baby in the future.  I know the financial burden will be high but the stress level should be less without them in the picture.  Right now, she needs your love as well as the baby needs all your love. 

Today I plan to take Ivalou to the pool.  First I am going to the hospital to meet the woman volunteer for the Chemo Wraps.  She has a bag of yarn for my group to use! 

It is 31 degrees but no rain right now.  It is windy and coming from the northeast...that's a sign of bad weather coming our way!  And the weather guessers say we are in for cold, snowy weather.

Thanks so much for the hugs and the words of wisdom.  I am feeling much better today after a good night's sleep.  I saw my chiropractor this morning, so my ouchies should go away soon.   am really excited about Beth getting the special wheelchair made just for her needs.  God is good!

Judy, I am so sorry that Kassie is walking a road she didn't need to walk, if she had chosen to honor God and not give in to hormones.  But the baby is still a gift from God, and God doesn't make mistakes.  Hugs to all of you, this will prove to be a blessing in the long run.

Marilyn, so sorry your granddaughter has made wrong choices and is suffering the consequences.  I  will be praying for both of these girls and also for the innocent lives they are presently carrying.  Really tough on those who love them.

I must get back on track today and start thinking about Christmas!  I haven't done one thing yet toward preparing for Christmas!

We are going to the Senior Center for lunch, will be good to see all our friends there again.

See you later!   ;)

Hi, friends, I'm back from a looooooong HARD weekend, and am absolutely exhausted. I'll talk more tomorrow - just know I've read and understand each post - the goods and the difficults. Our Lord knows, and He will be with us through thick and thin, praise His name.

Ruth Ann

Just letting you know I'm praying for each of you, especially as I get to know you better through reading these messages. It's good to know that God cares ... When we are dealing with heartache in our families, and stress from car accidents and other things (I can't imagine what it felt like for you,Janet) ... It's so good to know that we are not facing these things alone. This has been my comfort when going through trials. He's there for us and has promised never to leave us or forsake us.

Judy Thank you for the compliment. It is  so sad when I think of Kim and the life she has chosen. I  just pray that she will get into rehab but it is a choice that  only she can make. She said to me that no one wants to help her, but she has to help herself. I didn't get a chance to tell her all the things I wanted to say even though we had talked for quite a long time. I listened to her cry and tell me that no one wanted to help her. I don't know if the baby would be born with Hep C as well. I was there in delivery when she was born and I had her for the first 3 weeks of her life because her mother just left her and her sister with me and disappeared for three weeks. I will pray for Kassie's situation and I know you will pray for Kim and the baby.

Larry I don't know that there is much treatment for Hep C, once a person has it is lasts the rest of their life. I will have to do some research on that.

I thank you all for your prayers for Kim and the baby.

There is little they can do for Hep C, as I understand it.  My nephew died from it about a year ago.  He contracted it from blood transfusions following a horrible motorcycle accident.  I hope they do have better treatment for it now.

I took Beth's winter shirts to her today, went through her closet and drawers and brought home the short-sleeved shirts.  Sure isn't room there for all of them!  She was talking to John, so I read them both a story, they both enjoy that.

It was 3 degrees here this morning, with a pretty strong wind.  BRRRRR!!

I worked on my Christmas letter today, so at least maybe I will get a few cards mailed out.

Welcome, Betty.  So nice to have you with us!

I, too, have been scarce around here for many reasons.  I have been dealing with many and various family situations.  It seems this is the name of the game. Judy, I know of your situation ... some of the same has been in my family.  Shattered dreams, unfulfilled expectations .... kids just don't understand the consequences of their decisions ... or impulses without conscious decisions ... All we can do is leave them with the all knowing understanding of our Father ... He will bring all things to a good conclusion as we trust Him.   

I am hoping that my daughter, Dot, in Spokane will be able to accompany me to California in the next week or so.  Her daughters, and three grandkids, are in Lancaster .... We would stop in Sacramento and visit with Joy and Bryan.  Then Bryan will be going along to Lancaster to be with Candice and Becky and their kids for Christmas.  Dot has not seen Becky in five years, since she left home with her father, and now she has a baby girl that we all want to become acquainted with.... Of course, Dot is hoping to get a job this next week too .... while we want her to get a job, we also want her to be with her daughters and grandkids for Christmas.   God knows how it will work out for the best and we await His best judgement. 

I am thinking that I will be going to California with or without Dot ... I can make it to Sacramento and pick up Bryan and he will be able to help with the driving to and from Lancaster.   I'll be out of here sometime after the 14th (I have a doctor's appointment then so can't go anywhere before that.)

Pearl Harbor Day - the flags will be flown at half staff in remembrance. 

I was just thinking that this is a wonderful place to come and ease your concerns.  My hugs and prayers for all of your happenings in life right now. 

I have been awake since 3 AM and now baking a cranberry/apple oatmeal not too sweet dessert for Bible Study potluck.  Two neighbors are not going as they will be sitting with a friend at a downtown hospital for the husband's thyroid growth surgery.  Don will have to drive me this morning just to be on the safe side because of being groggy.  Yesterday, the garage door would only open two inches because of the freezing so I will have to even check that out first. 

Janet: You were meant to be there to give that poor lady a final sweet taste and meant to greet her that going away morning.  There was a reason..... but that doesn't mean YOU have to say yes because others drop their obligations.  Am so glad that Beth now has the chair she needs.  Hugs & please write about your trip after you rest a while. 

I stopped at the hospital yesterday to meet Jerri but she was so tired after her speaking at a meeting, she went home to rest.  Jerri is 51 and found out about 3 months ago that she has breast cancer and is taking chemo now.  But I got a huge bag of yarn to make Chemo Wraps.  The One Pound skeins!  That will make lots and lots of Chemo Wraps!

Then Ivalou and I went to the pool.  It could tell it had been 10 days since I had been in the pool and it had been longer for Ivalou. 

After leaving the pool, we were both hungry!  I know.  That is a surprise!  So we stopped at the Mexican restaurant near the hospital.  I do believe I like the food there better than any other Mexican restaurant around! 

Then home.  I am crocheting a baby afghan.  I measured it at 37".  Then I checked to see if all the chains were the same.  No.  I had a 6 chain instead of a 12 chain way back.  So I pulled it all out to the mistake.  Now it is 28".  Almost like starting over.  But I will get it done.  I just like for it to be right! 

Today is my Medicare Wellness Exam...paid for by Medicare.  There was a 7 point questionnaire I had to fill out...all but when my last colonoscopy, bone density, etc. was.  Not sure what all is involved but I will see. 

This evening is Crochet Angels.  It will be our last meeting this year.  I asked that all projects be brought to me by Sunday so I can take them to Third Phase, the women abuse center, in Noblesville, one day next week. 

Prayers, concerns and praises have been spoken to God by me this morning!

Thanks, Carol.  I will talk more about the trip, and maybe even recruit some help with the photos so I can show you all at least a glimpse of it.  Please don't take any chances, stay home if you're too groggy, as your well being is more important than any meeting!

I am busy today with stuff.  Cleaning, laundry, nail appt's for both Darrel and me this morning (toenails) and now I have some chicken nuggets in the oven for lunch with the Red Hats ladies soon.

I am making a list of places that might host book signings for me when the book comes out--they are saying not more than six weeks from now.  The waiting is getting harder all the time!

Etta Sue, just what is a Chemo Wrap?  I'm picturing a head covering, is that right?  So nice of you gals to make those and the other things as well.

Well, our Lord granted quite a long sleep & rest period for me last night/this morning.

With a dear friend slowly sinking toward death and his grieving family at his side, I've been trying to support them, as the daughter is my very best friend, and their family has taken me in as a family member.

Also, another big work session at my apartment, so I was out of my apartment from 8 a.m. till midnight Monday.

And, as things are likely to pile up on us, I had agreed to play piano for our devotions meeting yesterday morning, then, 3 hours later to play piano nonstop for an hour (all Christmas music) during the complex's Christmas party.

By the end of all that, I was almost beyond exhaustion. Thankfully, the strength seems to be returning bit by bit today.

My friend is being transferred to a hospice facility at this moment. His family still needs our prayer.

Love to all,
Ruth Ann

I am late getting here today as have had a very full day today.  As soon as I got home from coffee we went to Bible study.  Then the group went across the street to the donut place for coffee.  We had to leave there a little early as I had a dental appointment at noon.  I was called back but had to wait until about 1 pm before the dentist could get to me as they had a couple of morning emergency cases to deal with.  It didn't take long to fill the tooth and then Pat and I decided to try out the new Olive Garden that had opened last weekend only to find it was only open in the evenings at this time.  So we went to Steak and Shake for a quick lunch and then a final stop at the Kaiser Pharmacy to pick up medicine.  This evening I have my last Wednesday evening choir practice.  I was able to squeeze in a little nap after we got home.

It has turned windy and much cooler here after a rainy night and rain off and on today. 

Judy, how can grandparents abandon a grandchild regardless of the circumstances.  Does Canada require fathers to pay child support.  I agree that the baby has nothing to do with the mistake that so many young people make.  A life is always precious. Kassie is fortunate to have you and John to be there for her. 

Etta Sue, I think one reason I like sports is that it is something that is happening and not staged.  It allows us to focus on something other than the problems that many of us carry around with us.  To top it all off it is just fun to watch and appreciate the talent that is evident in the athlete.  I did take my car for the estimate yesterday and it will cost less than $500 unless more damage is found when the bumper is removed to be repainted. As soon as I get the check for the repair I will schedule it and get a rental car for a couple of days until the car is ready.

Janet, glad to see you had a good night's sleep and are feeling better.

Betty, glad you stopped by and posted as it is always nice to read something new friends have written.

Marilyn,  I took a year of interferon shots and that brought my count down to almost undetectable.  I just learned from my cardiologist that you never totally get rid of Hep C and he has suggested I follow up with my gastro doctor to see if some of my symptoms could be the Hep C starting up again.  However, will not worry about that until such time as I might know for certain as think after all these years it probably has not restarted.

Janet, I got mine via the blood transfusion I had in 1987 when I had my first heart surgery.  It was before the Red Cross was checking or it as it hadn't been identified as such prior to that time. 

Jane, it sounds like you have a very busy month planned but will be nice for you to be with members of your family. 

Carol, hope you were able to get your car out of the garage.

Ruth Ann, for a few years when I volunteered to play the piano and sing with the participates out the respite center at our church I would play for maybe thirty minutes and also played Christmas music before the annual Christmas party.  However, don't think I could have done it for an hour and even the half hour became too long.  I can certainly understand your being exhausted.

Our Son in Law Heather's husband is a taxi driver.  He is going through some rough times right now and I know he would appreciate prayer. 

Gord sent me this a bit ago, and asked me to post it here on CP.  Jon has a soft heart.   Heather told me that one night he had a drunk man in his cab and he started talking to him.  He was a Korean vet and he told Jon of his time in Korea.  The alcohol couldn't drown out the pictures that ran around in his head.  He drove this man home helped him to the door, the vet gave him his house key and Jon walked him into the house helped him lay down on the couch and covered him with a blanket.  No charge.

This is an old story, not specifically true, but at least true with in that household.  As the Christmas season is upon us, let's continue to be kind to those who come across our path.  My nephew who is nearing 50 had a young lady (20 something) smile at him.  It made his day. 

Here is the story.

The Cab Ride

I arrived at the address and honked the horn. after waiting a few minutes
I walked to the door and knocked.. 'Just a minute', answered a frail, elderly voice. I could hear something being dragged across the floor.

After a long pause, the door opened. A small woman in her 90's stood before me. She was wearing a print dress and a pillbox hat with a veil pinned
on it, like somebody out of a 1940's movie.

By her side was a small nylon suitcase. The apartment looked as if no one had
lived in it for years. All the furniture was covered with sheets.

There were no clocks on the walls, no knickknacks or utensils on the counters. In the corner was a cardboard box filled with photos and glassware..

'Would you carry my bag out to the car?' she said. I took the suitcase to the cab, then returned to assist the woman.

She took my arm and we walked slowly toward the curb.

She kept thanking me for my kindness. 'It's nothing', I told her.. 'I just try to treat my passengers the way I would want my mother to be treated.'

'Oh, you're such a good boy, she said. When we got in the cab, she gave me an address and then asked, 'Could you drive through downtown?'

'It's not the shortest way,' I answered quickly..

'Oh, I don't mind,' she said. 'I'm in no hurry. I'm on my way to a hospice.

I looked in the rear-view mirror. Her eyes were glistening. 'I don't have any family left,' she continued in a soft voice.. 'The doctor says I don't have very long.' I quietly reached over and shut off the meter.

'What route would you like me to take?' I asked.

For the next two hours, we drove through the city. She showed me the building where she had once worked as an elevator operator.

We drove through the neighborhood where she and her husband had lived when they were newlyweds She had me pull up in front of a furniture warehouse that had once been a ballroom where she had gone dancing as a girl.

Sometimes she'd ask me to slow in front of a particular building or corner and
would sit staring into the darkness, saying nothing.

As the first hint of sun was creasing the horizon, she suddenly said, 'I'm tired. Let's go now'.

We drove in silence to the address she had given me. It was a low building, like a small convalescent home, with a driveway that passed under a portico.

Two orderlies came out to the cab as soon as we pulled up. They were solicitous and intent, watching her every move. They must have been expecting her.

I opened the trunk and took the small suitcase to the door. The woman was already seated in a wheelchair.

'How much do I owe you?' She asked, reaching into her purse.

'Nothing,' I said

'You have to make a living,' she answered.

'There are other passengers,' I responded.

Almost without thinking, I bent and gave her a hug. She held onto me tightly.

'You gave an old woman a little moment of joy,' she said 'Thank you.'

I squeezed her hand, and then walked into the dim morning light.. Behind me, a door shut. It was the sound of the closing of a life..

I didn't pick up any more passengers that shift. I drove aimlessly lost in thought. For the rest of that day, I could hardly talk. What if that woman had gotten an angry driver, or one who was impatient to end his shift? What if I had refused to take the run, or had honked once, then driven away?

On a quick review, I don't think that I have done anything more important in my life.

We're conditioned to think that our lives revolve around great moments.

But great moments often catch us unaware-beautifully wrapped in what others may consider a small one.

PEOPLE MAY NOT REMEMBER EXACTLY  WHAT YOU DID, OR WHAT YOU SAID ~BUT~THEY WILL ALWAYS REMEMBER HOW YOU MADE THEM FEEL

Hi everyone.  Our temperatures really dipped last night after a rainy and chilly day yesterday.  It is currently 33 degrees outside. We had a good choir practice last evening with only one member of the choir absent due to illness.  Our last rehearsal, which will be with the orchestra, will be Saturday morning.  Other than coffee today I think my slate is clear and I should be able to stay home all day unless Pat has other ideas or needs my help with some errands.

Judy. thanks for sharing the taxi driver story with us.  It reminds me that every life is precious and that a little kindness goes a long way.

How beautiful, Judy.  Thanks for posting that.

Janet ~ Chemo Wraps are rectangles at least 26" wide by at least 46" long.  They are for patients receiving chemo at the hospital.  The chemo is room temperature...72°...our bodies are 98.6°.  So when the patient is receiving chemo, they are chilled.  Therefore the need of something to wrap around their shoulders that won't interfere with their arms and chemo.  The patient chooses their wrap.  It is theirs.  They may take it home and bring it back for their next session or they may put their name on it and leave it at the hospital.  Jerri, the volunteer and my contact for the Chemo Wraps for the hospital, discovered she has breast cancer about 3 months ago and is taking chemo now. 

The Medicare Wellness Exam went well.  It seems like the government wants the doctors and the patients to be aware what all Medicare will pay for to prevent problems in the future!  My nurse is on top of it all!

And we only had 3 Crochet Angels last evening but it seemed we didn't want to leave.  I didn't get home until after 9pm.  It was a long session but fun to crochet and visit. 

Today is my class luncheon at a Cracker Barrel.  My decision is what will I choose to eat!  Cracker Barrel is sooo good!

Hi, friends,

Today's a fresh new day for us to praise our Lord and to welcome his blessings big and small.

I've written about a certain nearly blind friend who is undergoing great difficulties at this time. Well, my children in Atlanta have chosen to provide Christmas for this grandma and her 2 grandchildren. Each child is getting 8 full outfits of clothing from skin out including socks and underclothing. And, they each get 6-8 gifts. Then, a gift card to the grandmother's favorite grocery to get her Christmas meal. And, lastly, something nice for the grandchildren to give their grandmother. What a wonderful Christmas present to me! How I praise the Lord for leading them in this decision to help others.

Much love to all,
Ruth Ann

Ruth Ann, what a fabulous way to celebrate our Lord's birth!

Ruth Ann that is so sweet of the Atlanta kids to do that for Grandmother.

I went to see the vampire this morning and the first  poke didn't get enough for all the vials  so she had to poke me again. I came home and baked another loaf of Banana bread and will make a batch of fudge this afternoon and maybe another Banana bread.

We are still waiting for Keith's first grandson to be born, He was due the 2nd or the 7th, not sure. I think the 2nd and Keith thinks the 7th. We are going up to Portland the 16th and I told Keith last night we maybe in the waiting room at the hospital with Craig unless Jackson gets here before that.

Larry, I'm so sorry you have to give up singing in the choir, but I know it has given you and the ones who got to listen many hours of enjoyment.  And one day soon, we will get to sing in that great heavenly choir together!  What a day that will be!

Etta Sue, thanks for the explanation of the Chemo  Wraps.  I was picturing a head wrapping of some kind.  Those sound so nice, and comforting, too.

Ruth  Ann, it sounds as if your Atlanta kids take after you!  What a generous and loving thing to do for the grandmother and the kids.  God will surely bless them for this kindness.

Marilyn, sounds like you and Keith are having your share of new babies in the family!

I have been doing some framing, and am so tired.  We are still going to bed much earlier than usual, and Darrel is even getting up early.  Guess we aren't over the jet lag yet.

We were notified by Craig that they will be inducing Stephanie at 6:30 a, tomorrow. Gramps is so ecstatic. The boys mother and grand father went up today to be there for the birth.

Larry:  It is difficult to give up things you love - my heart goes out to you. 

Etta Sue:  Thanks for the information on chemo wraps.  Maybe I will take time again some day to knit prayer shawls or chemo wraps - this quilting is just overwhelming any spare time. 

If we didn't have to sleep, we could get so much more done in a day.  Fading tonight. 

And, so am I, Carol.

"Uncle Thomas" is so very close to crossing over. May God grant him mercies as he makes this transition, and may the family, in their sorrow, realize that God is merciful and kind, and not willing that any soul should perish.

He responded by lifting his hand, then squeezing the fingers of his Sunday School teacher this past Sunday to acknowledge he wanted forgiveness from sin and acceptance in the Family of God.

G'nite, friends,
Ruth Ann

Hi everyone.  We had a most beautiful day here yesterday.  It warmed up into the 50s and was very sunny with no wind.  Another is on tap for today.  I will go down to Atlanta this morning and bring our daughter out for the weekend so she can attend the Christmas Cantata on Sunday evening at our church.  There is a nice dinner that always precedes the Sunday evening program and we will attend that as well.  On the way this morning I am taking my new desktop computer in to have the CD/DVD reader/writer checked out under the warranty.  I just have to take it back to Microcenter where I purchased it.  Will have to leave it for a couple of days.  It works but makes a terrible racket, which certainly isn't right.  That should pretty much be it for today.

Etta Sue, Kaiser has been big on wellness exams for a long time.  Both Pat and I have routine physicals once a year.  I bet your chemo wraps feel mighty good to someone who is cold.  I can sure relate to having the cold feeling.

Ruth Ann, what a wonderful gift you are being given.  You will have the satisfaction of knowing this family will have a wonderful Christmas, your family will have deep satisfaction at helping someone else and at our age there usually isn't much we need personally and sure don't need something to sit around and gather dust. 

Marilyn, it always seems like a long time waiting for the new baby to be born, especially for the mother.  It sounds like you are in a baking mood.  I now see that the birth will be today.  Sure you all will be staying by the phone.

Janet, thanks for your kind thoughts. I guess I really hadn't thought about singing int he heavenly choir but what a joy that will be.

Carol, one reason I don't get much accomplished in a day is that I always try to rest a couple of hours in the afternoon. 

Good morning!  It is still dark, and I have no idea what kind of weather we are in for, but yesterday turned out to be pretty nice.  I learned yesterday that they are having a little memorial service for Myrtle, who died on my shift Monday, at the home, in her neighborhood, this morning at 10:00.  I want to attend,  and feel it may put to rest any lingering doubts about why she died so quickly.

Yesterday at Beth's Care Plan meeting, the DON asdmitted her chair hadn't been ordered two weeks ago, but she had just ordered it on Tuesday!   >:(  I hope they can deliver it before John arrives, we will see.

I got in a whole flurry of framing to do, and every piece is large.  That will really make my time tight...so much to do, and of course, they all MUST be done in time for Christmas!  But God will help me get it all done.

I will try to get back later today, and hope my list of 'to-dos' is shorter by then!

I'm looking forward to taking part in the Heavenly Choir!  There my voice will be beautiful and I'll be able to sing out, not worrying about making anyone uncomfortable who hears me.   :o 

I'm with you, Jeanne!  I will sing at the top of my lungs when I am in the Heavenly Choir!  Not now....

Well, it's snowing in central Indiana!!!  Not big flakes but it is snowing.  It seems to be melting even though it is below freezing.  I have Christmas music playing on the CD player so it would be wonderful if God would make these snow flakes big and fluffy and float to the ground!  Ah, then it would be Christmas!

I have Etta Sue's Stew on the stove.  Smoked Sausage, Potatoes, Carrots, Green Beans and Onions.  After lunch I plan to get out all my 4-ply yard and make a mess in the living room.  I want to put the yarn in piles by color!  Then when I start crocheting Chemo Wraps, I will choose what colors and then make each row a different hue of those colors...light to dark.  That will make it rainbow like! 

Oh, I finished the baby afghan I was making last evening.  Now on to Chemo Wraps!

Hi all!  Imagine hearing from me!  I'm using a coputer at Eureka Care Center, Eureka, CA.  I'm trying to get to the point at which I would be able to leave this place.  I'm really doing fairly well while I'm here.  I'm not able to get around very well on my own, though.  I probably won't be able to come back and read replies here very often.  In fact, I'm actually in the  midst of an Occupational. Therapy sesson at this moment.  So I need to sign off.

AL! How great to see a post from you.  Praise the Lord that you've improved this much and maybe you'll soon get another chance to use the computer during your occupational therapy.

Thank you AL for posting.  I will continue to pray for you and Marbeth.

PRAISE THE LORD~!!!

How wonderful to hear from you, Alan!!!  We've all been praying for you and now to see your photo pop up and see your typing is just such a wonderful thing!!!

God bless you, Alan as you mend.

AL!!  Wonderful to see your post!  Continue getting stronger, and do pop in and say hello when you can.  We have been missing you!

Wow Al good to see you.

Amazing Grace:  I was just thinking about AL and there he popped up looking great!

This morning we had a white snowy fog and it did lift just in time for us to drive a son to the airport.  Then, we just had to celebrate Don's yesterday birthday with a coupon for the percentage off of his age at the fish company.  We always go for lunch & love the sourdough bread. 

I am writing out cards and always try to put in a personal message without too much detail. 

Janet, since reading your first post about Myrtle, I haven't been able to stop thinking of you.  What a terrible position you were in and I'm so sorry.  I'm so happy to find out that they were able to let you know that her death had nothing to do with you.

Love you!

Thank you, Pat.  I attended a little memorial service they held for her today in their neighborhood.  It was really a traumatic day for me on Monday, but now I know for sure that I had nothing to do with her death, and that I was able to give her some happiness every time I worked there.  And she was ready and wanting to go HOME, so we can rejoice for Myrtle.

I miss you, Pat.  :(

Oh, yessss! Won't it be great to participate in that heavenly choir, but not until I bow at Jesus' feet and worship Him, then on to the Holy Spirit, and finally, to bow low to God our Father.

"Uncle Thomas" is almost home tonight. Blood pressures upper & lower below 100 and dropping, and respirations dropped from 16 per minute to 11-12 per minute during the 2 1/2 hours I was there. May God rest his soul and accept him when he passes away.

Now, I have a big praise tonight. It was past 7 pm when I left the hospice facility this evening. Was worried about driving home, but felt the 4-lane road would be well traveled, so tail lights would help guide me.

At a traffic light, a lady riding passenger in a truck rolled down the window and frantically motioned for me to do the same. She shouted, "LADY! You have NO TAIL LIGHTS! The only time you can be seen is if you tap the brakes your center back windshield light comes on."

So, I thanked her profusely and pulled off the road to ask for guidance from God. Finally, I purposed to touch the brakes pretty often to help those behind me to know I was there, and asked God to guide me to where I could get lights.

Well, I drove on about 6 miles and pulled in to a national chain tire repair facility. The garage seemed dim, but a young man was working at the cash register.

When I went in I explained how desperate I was, and he said, that he was the only one there, but he'd come outside with me to check the lights. Fortunately, they were simply burned out and he kindly replaced them. I was beaming with thanksgiving as I wrote the check.

Only then did he tell me he had stayed late to catch up on some paper work and had been closed since 7 pm!!!

So, God works in His own perfect way to protect and guide us.

Tonight, I'm a Grateful Granny,
Ruth Ann

I've just finished reading the story about the three trees.  What a wonderful story.  It really brings to mind a lot of new thoughts about the whole of the Nativity and not just the central theme.  Without the wood there would have been no manger.  without the animals there would have been no stable.  Without the straw there would have been no bedding.

Isn't it wonderful how before we even ask - God provides what we need.  Not what we want, but what we need.

Thank you God.

Hi everyone.  Yesterday turned out to be an exceedingly busy day.  My taking my new desktop in to Microsoft turned into a study in frustration as they indicated they could not repair or replace the bad CD/DVD Rom although I could buy a new one and they would put it in.  I stopped back by and picked up my computer on my way home from getting Stacey.  It was about 2:30 when we got home and I was worn out but too tired to sleep so just rested for a couple of hours.  I had a good nights sleep and am ready for our two hour final choir practice of our Cantata with the orchestra this morning.  That is always a joyful experience.  I did bring Stacey's computer out and will work on it while she is here as it is running very slowly.

Janet, I was expect if if were a chair for the person responsible for ordering it that there wouldn't have been a delay. 

Etta Sue, your stew sounds delicious.  Nice idea on your use of the yarn.

Al, great to hear from you and know you are doing better.  We miss you.

Ruth Ann, the lady who told you of your tail lights not working sounds like on of those angels we encounter in life who we will never see again but who appear when we need them.  Glad you got them fixed and made it safely home.

Terry, good to see your post.

Ruth Ann, thank you for a joyful note on which to start my long day!  I agree with Larry that the lady who warned you may have been an angel; but also the young man who fixed them for you was surely put in the right place at the right time by our loving Father!  He is SO good!  ALL the time!

LARRY, how I wish I could be there to listen to your choir!  You have been a blessing to so many through the years with your music, and you continue to bless all of us here by your presence and posts. 

Terry, good to "meet" you, and welcome to Christian Photographers!

I am about to head out to my painting meeting, and when I get home, will go to the annual parade of homes here in Ulysses.

I HAVE CABINETS!!!!  They are in the garage at the moment, but they are really beautiful!  Lon brought them out yesterday as he had no room in his shop in which to build the rest of them.  The promise now is to be here Monday to take out the old ones and start painting the kitchen.

I wish you all a wonderful day!

Welcome, Terry!  Come back and let us know more about you.

And I know Janet is jazzed to see her new cabinets even though they are in her garage.

And I know it will be sad for Larry to know this will be his last practice with the choir.  Think of the memories you have made for so many people.

And Ruth Ann, I know from experience how it feels when others go that extra mile to help you in need.  Sounds like angels were abound in Nashville while on your journey home. 

I have my first Chemo Wrap about 11" wide right now.  It goes from off-white to dark brown...13 shades.  Then you start over with the off-white.  I have lots and lots of yellows and oranges.  Can't wait to start that one!  Will do that when it is super cold outside!!  (And my scrap-pile of yarn dwindles down)

It is bright and sunny with a little wind but....but...only 12 degrees when I got up.  I noticed in bed that my nose was cold.  The heat pump doesn't work when it gets below either 17 degrees or 14 degrees...can't remember.  So I reset the thermostat on the furnace to a higher degree so when the heat pump doesn't work, the furnace will.  And I know my house still isn't as cool as some of yours but I have about 5 degrees that I am comfortable in.  Higher than 72 and I am too hot.  Cooler than 67 and I am too cold! 

Today Ivalou and I are going to a niece's home for the Stevenson Christmas Dinner.  Robin is Kaye Don's oldest.  It isn't far.  Less than 2 miles away.  But she has a tricky driveway so I want to be there early so I can back in.  Plus we won't have to walk that far to her front door. 

The snow didn't stick yesterday even though it was below freezing most of the day.

Ruth Ann, I agree that both the lady who warned you and the young man who helped you were certainly angels sent by our loving Heavenly Father to protect you.  Praise God!

Janet, you must be so happy that another step in your renovation is nearing completion!

Etta Sue, my thermostat is programmed for 69 degrees daytime and 60 degrees for the night hours. 

Good morning, well, it will be another busy day today. We have a funeral at church for a sweet, sweet lady. I have certainly missed her these last months since she's been so ill with cancer of the throat. Because of her Godly influence, 2 grandsons are Christians.

Then to hospice to check on "Uncle Thomas" and his family.

Al, it was wonderful to hear from you. We love and miss you and are praying for a complete recovery and reunion with your wife Marbeth.

Terry, how great that you've become a "family member" here at CP! We can't wait to hear more from you. :)

Love to all,
Ruth Ann

Jesus died over 2000 years ago.
Nobody has ever referred to him as the late Jesus, not even the heathens.
Nowhere in history.
Nowhere has He EVER been referred to in the past tense!
He is the Living God!
... He is the I AM,
Not the I was,
Nor the I will be.

Judy, that's perfect!   :thumbsup:

Baby Jackson Sean Riley was born last night just after 6:30 pm, we were there through the whole thing via a web cam and Google+, He weighed in at 8 lbs and 3 oz, and 20½ inches long. Stephanie did great. they induced her early in the morning and Craig though she wouldn't deliver until 8-9 pm  but when Jackson started coming he came fast and there was no time to give her an epidural, so she was superwoman and delivered him naturally. This was taken minutes after his birth. This is Keith's first grandchild.

(https://zcmiwg.bay.livefilestore.com/y1pCDIynlwPZCd3Uk8sCugM88bNzkRVNkdgT8YWRIre3PiOdF5uEcLEawRk_byN9qkz6EQ8CDTNTO6Xw8-9uoGaG-fpuIJk-QsO/Baby%20Jackson.jpg?psid=1)

Well, with a lot of struggle, I was able to get back on here! Thanls so very much for all of your replies!  It was heartwarming, to say the least.  I am presently having to wear a catheter.  Please pray I'll soon be free of  - everything depends on that.

Marilyn, no photo showed up on my computer.  :(

Etta Sue, those Chemo Wraps sound wonderful, and I know that with all that yarn, you will come up with lovely color combinations.

Hello again, AL!!  So good to have you pop back in and greet us!  And yes, will pray the catheter is soon a thing of the past.  God bless.

I had a good time painting with my friends today, now am going to the Parade of Homes with other friends.  Aren't friends just the greatest??  Gotta love 'em!  :)

I don't  know why it didn't show up it showed  on S&F from the same place, using the same link. Did you get a Red X.?

Is it showing for anyone else?

Here it is again from my gallery

(https://www.christianphotographers.com/community/gallery2/d/10139-1/Baby+Jackson.jpg)

Another one

(https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/381464_2527401499175_1077566054_2686276_1963323188_n.jpg)

Can't miss that wide-awake baby picture.  A Christmas babe - what could be better? 

Al:  Sending up a prayer for you and your entire health. 

Yesterday at this time I was a frazzle with the long table runner nowhere near finished & the neighbor who wanted to do some fancy quilting on his machine to embellish it had the fabric and nothing was working.  It was stuck in the needle. Help came from the fix-it angel and I finished doing the hand sewing at 9 AM after sewing until 11 last night.  Headache, had to fix a salad for the buffet, and groggy but had to drive and all turned out well after all.  I had six hours of hand sewing that did work out well and finished a half hour before driving.  Cutting it close. 

Welcome Terry!   It is always nice to see a newcomer.  Do you know anyone at this site?

Another day is drawing to a close for me. 

Wonderful to see Al again, and I'll be praying for the quick end to the need for that catheter.

Janet, yes, the friends God sends our way are indeed wonderful!

Marilyn, what a beautiful baby.  Thanks for those pictures.

Carol, glad you had success with your project and your help for your neighbor!  And now it's time for you to sit back and relax.

 :)   Good evening to all well I think winter is here for sure as tonight I put my mini van into the garage as this morning I went out and most of the windows were full of ice.  It has been a very busy week as my daughter finally finished her B.A. and sat her  last exam on Friday so of course we hope that she gets a good mark

Al: It is so good to see your post and we will continue to lift you up in prayer may the Lord give you strength to get mobile and feel a lot better. :coffee:

Marilyn:  The pictures showed up on my computer and the baby is beautiful :thumbsup:

Pat:  Nice to see you here on site and it was so good to talk to you the other night. Hope you are keeping o. k. God bless SIS. :)

Ruth Ann Bice : What you told us about your rear lights is so true as so many cars today are driving around with no back running lights or no brake lights and the owners don't have a clue until someone like your angel told them.  As being a retired bus driver that is something that I always noticed and I will make it a point to let people know when I get beside them at a stop sign or light. It is so important that we should check our vehicles with the help of someone so that we have that satisfaction of knowing that they are o.k. Praise the Lord for your safety.

Terry:  Hi and welcome to C.P. and we hope that you will enjoy  the site and please tell us more about yourself and where you live.  God Bless for being here. : :newbie:

To all others have a wonderful Lords day and if you read this please pray for me tomorrow as I have to sing a solo and my voice seems to be acting up and in the morning it is a lot worse but I know that the  Lord can do miracles.   I have the faith that he can do things with my voice. :)

To all others on C.P. have a great day tomorrow.  Gordon and Noreen :cp: :bananadance: :pine:

Well, it's late this evening, but I thought I'd let you know that "Uncle Thomas" passed away this afternoon at 4:19.  I surely will miss him and hearing his stories of when he was younger. He always repeated each story with exactly the same words, facial expressions, and gestures. I treasured those times when his eyes would light up and he'd begin telling a story. Alzheimer's had eradicated all current-time memories, but he still retained those stories of 60-75 years ago.

Thank you for helping us pray for the family and for praying for him.

Love to all,
Ruth Ann

Al, it is wonderful to see you here again, and that you are on the rebound!

Ruth Ann, I am so sorry for the loss of your Uncle.  I am sure the difficulty of his passing has been multiplied by watching him as he struggled with Alzheimer's.

You will both remain in my prayers.

It was great to see Al posting again!  Hope we see many more posts!

I had a wonderful time with Kaye Don's kids, grands and greats!  What a handsome family!  Lots of hugs, conversation and great food! 

I am still crocheting on the Chemo Wrap.  Looks like it will repeating the shades of brown 4 times to complete it.  Will be nice for a man. 

Today Crochet Angels will be displaying all the items we are taking to Third Phase.  I am hoping it will encourage others to join our little group! 

It's a bright, sunny day in Indiana with the temps in the 20's.  Not too bad for December.

Hi everyone.  It is going to be a sunny and very nice day.  I think it got down to freezing during the night but should warm up later today.  We had a very good Cantata rehearsal yesterday morning for two hours.  That is a long time to sing but we practiced with the orchestra, which sounded wonderful.  Last evening I enjoyed watching our local highschool, Grayson High, win the 5A State Championship in football.  They went undefeated all season and throughout the playoffs.  They won the game 24-0 last evening with some really outstanding plays.  The school is only 11 years old and is probably two miles from where I live.  We will go to church this morning.  The bells are playing so the choir won't be singing but will be in the choir loft to support the congregational singing.  We do have a dinner at church before the program tonight so we will be attending that.

Janet, I am humbled by your commonts.  Thanks.  I wish you could hear our music and if I can get a copy of the CD from the program tonight I will fix it so that it can be heard from a link as I have done a few times in the past.  Singing in the choir on the back row I really have no sense of how everything sounds if you are sitting in front of the choir in the congregation.  Exciting time with your new kitchen on the way this coming week.

Etta Sue, it will be a bit sad tonight to sing with the choir for the last time but after the rehearsal yesterday I have no doubt that it was time to make this decision.  I will try to keep my emotions in check this evening as we end the performance but make no promises. 

Judy, interesting item on how Jesus is referred to by people.

Marilyn, also great when the child is born.  He sounds like a very healthy baby.  The picture showed in your posting #66.  I am sure you and Keith will be anxious to see him and get to hold him.

Carol, it sounds like you put a lot of stress on yourself with that table runner.  Glad you got it finished in time.

Gord, sure it is a relief for your daughter to finish her BA degree.  It sounds like it is getting cold up your way.

Al, I expect most of us can relate to your situation and hope you will be rid of the catheter soon so you can return home.  Glad you were able to get back online.

Ruth Ann, sorry about the loss of your friend but it sounds like he will be much better off than he was.  You seem to be losing too many of your good friends from your church.

Ken, good to see you posting again.  Don't be a stranger.  :)

Al, what a blessing to see you're able to communicate with us. Yes, we will pray for our Lord to take care of the issues surrounding the catheter.

Larry, I remember how sad it made me when I retired from church music because of the problems with my eyes. I'll be remembering and supporting you tonight, my friend.

Marilyn, as we lose our elders, the promise of a healthy new life renews hope. Jane, I know you feel that way too, as you've experienced both loss and gain in your family.

To everyone, may our Lord richly bless us today with His love that is SO individualized. Just as we are all unique, our Lord who shaped us in His own image, knows where we are strong and where our needs and weaknesses that only He can address. And He will do so, in His own time.

Love,
Ruth Ann

Larry as people commented on your retirement from the choir I had to go back and find the place where you told us.  I had read your announcement, but for some reason it didn't register.  I am sure you will be missed by all the choir memners as well as the choir master!  Sitting in the congregation you will be able to hear all parts, and know what you sounded like when you were there singing.

AL WELCOME BACK!  Hope to see you back regularly.  I will continue to pray for you and the remaining health issues.

Ruth Ann, Don't you wish you could have taped those stroies?  You will  hear them all again in glory. 

I haven't done a lot that needs doing as I am knitting mittens for the little ones I give to. 

Have a good Lord's Day everyone.

Hello once again and a big thank you to Larry, Etta Sue, Ruth Ann and carol for their warm welcome to "Thoughts of the Week"

Someone asked me to say something about myself.  I live in the North East of England and have happily married to my wife Margaret for over forty years.  For me photography is a hobby that I have picked up over the last few years.

In answer to your question Carol - I do not know anybody on this site. I came across it whilst browsing the web one day.

I hope you have all had/are having a good day at church.


For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them.    Matthew 18:20

 :)  Good afternoon to all.  Yes it is starting to get very cold in the mornings and it is so nice to have a garage to put the van into or as they say in some places that they cannot believe that those people have a house for their cars.

Terry.  Where are you actually from in the North of England as I originally come from Glasgow Scotland many years ago. :thumbsup:

Larry: I know how you must feel about leaving the choir as I have had a hard time singing and I do not want to give it up but when your voice is so raspy first thing in the morning it is very hard to sing.  But the Lord gets you through it I had to sing a solo this morning and praise the Lord it went well the song I sang was   Mary Did You Know  written by Mark Lowrie and Music by Buddy Greene both from the Gaither Homecomings and the song is also used on the secular programs on radio.  Hope you and Pat are doing well how is your son doing. :coffee:

Our Church had a fantastic preacher from Cuba and our Pastor translated for him and our poor pastor had a hard time keeping up with the Cuban Pastor as he speaks so fast and also moves around so much it was a wonderful sermon and to just watch them both amazing how the Lord gives the mind that ability to change the wording so fast Praise God for his gifts that he gives us.  Well Gods Blessings for this week and keep safe to all. :)    Gordon and Noreen :cp: :bananadance: :pine:

Hi Folks  Been a while since my last post. Just sat here a while to read all the posts of the week as I do most weeks but have been very busy lately with work and getting things around here wrapped of for winter. With things being very busy on the road time at home has become a bit of a premium. This is quite normal in the trucking business this time of year going into Christmas. We haven't had a lot of snow yet this year which makes getting around to do our deliveries a bit easier. Also we haven't had any severe cold yet either which has been a real relief. I have my Christmas shopping all done so that is good. Mind you I only shop for Judy and she looks after all the rest of it. But most years I get into the last minute crunch. But that got turned around this year. Good to see Al posting again on the site. Hope you will soon be able to get back to a more normal lifestyle Al. Those facilities have found are great places to be when needed but are even better to leave when able to and we all hope you will soon be able to leave and get back home. There's no replacement for home. Hope everyone is looking forward to Christmas and remember to take time during this busy and very commercial season, and reflect on the reason for the season. That it is the celebration of the birth of our Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ. It is so easy to get all wrapped up in the busy routine and not take time to meditate on Him. Ill go for now. Keep well everyone. Bonesy

Terry:  We have not spent much time NE of England but have been in the Cotswolds area at Morton-on-Marsh, on the coastal cities like Canterbury, and a few other places besides London.  We always enjoy visiting the UK.  Glad to have you posting in here. 

Bonesy:  Nice to see you - it has been a while.  Take care on these wintery roads.

We had a wonderful sermon once again and this time about courage of being a Christian in ancient times and even now.  Very timely. 

Jeanne Lee:  Thanks - I know this is not a life-threatening happening and should not have bothered me at all but it has been that kind of a month. 

We are about to drive to the airport once again.  It is closer to Kansas than to Denver --just kidding but it sure is a long drive and takes a lot of gas.  I drove the little car yesterday and had spinning tires on ice a couple of times but always went straight so that is good. 

I've posted a couple more photos on my Blog and 1 on Facebook that I put a frame around.

Not much to write about today. We went to Walmart for some Bananas, Bread flour and Cat food. Keith put the battery charger on the Corvette, we haven't driven it since we went to Portland the first week of June.

What a sweet baby!  Thanks for posting, Marilyn!

So good to see your posts, Alan.  God bless you.

Time to start a new week.


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