The new hype after the elections seems to be the term "Fiscal Cliff". I for one have not paid much attention to this, but I think it refers to the opinion that if our country keeps spending, then we will be jumping off a "fiscal cliff"...all terminology to scare us into thinking as the people using this term think.
I try not to worry so much about the "big picture"...in my paltry day to day, there is not much I can do to change this. When we worry too much about finances and put our big emphasis there, it would seem to me that we don't believe that God will take care of us as He care for the birds of the air and the flowers of the field. He encourages us to give to Caesar (government) what taxes they are due.
What would seem to me to be the bigger concern would be our "moral cliffs". Do I live in a way that I reflect the love of Christ to others. If I reflect him, how am I doing this? Is it as an angry rebuke, or a loving concern? Do I walk the walk continually with justice and concern for those who do not have the blessings I enjoy every day? Are we so Pharisee like that we strain at a gnat, but swallow a camel? Do we feel that we much judge everyone in our society and turn them against the gospel by our stern attitudes because we understand everything correctly? It seems to me that the Pharisees had more moral cliffs than those they looked down on. Let us learn from their examples to not jump off that cliff.
So for today, I wish you God's peace, compassion, and love for each other!
Sunday, November 18, 2012
Monday, October 1, 2012
Appreciation
Today is a hard day...one of our finest is transitioning to see God's Glory. Those left behind pray and cry out that we do not understand. Her husband who survives has depended on her for over 20 years in his battle with ALS...we wonder how he will be cared for.
Yesterday one of the precious children at our church did a solo of "Jesus Loves Me"; it was heart wrenching as we took the words to heart...even in the midst of suffering and grasping for answers, we do know that Jesus does indeed love us...he wept when his friend Lazarus had passed this life. Our prayers were that she would be miraculously healed on this earth...God gave her rest for her weary heart instead.
In her memory, I will be more intentional in letting others know of my love for them; I will reach out with calls and notes as she often did to those who were facing challenges that life throws at them. I will be more transparent in sharing the side of me that is not always put together...no more pretense...just real.
As the tears flow from heaven, we need to remember that rain also is a cleansing agent...God is ridding us of disbelief and showing us a better brighter tomorrow because that is just how she would want us to see this.
Yesterday one of the precious children at our church did a solo of "Jesus Loves Me"; it was heart wrenching as we took the words to heart...even in the midst of suffering and grasping for answers, we do know that Jesus does indeed love us...he wept when his friend Lazarus had passed this life. Our prayers were that she would be miraculously healed on this earth...God gave her rest for her weary heart instead.
In her memory, I will be more intentional in letting others know of my love for them; I will reach out with calls and notes as she often did to those who were facing challenges that life throws at them. I will be more transparent in sharing the side of me that is not always put together...no more pretense...just real.
As the tears flow from heaven, we need to remember that rain also is a cleansing agent...God is ridding us of disbelief and showing us a better brighter tomorrow because that is just how she would want us to see this.
Wednesday, July 18, 2012
Wishing and Hoping
Seems there was a song in my younger years about wishing and hoping and thinking and praying, but it was about a boyfriend. I think Dusty Springfield recorded it.
I have been doing a bit of that with a different purpose. Last week I was praying for Debbie's being led gently home; that was accomplished last Thursday. I know from God's promises that she is totally healed now with no more pain, tears, or illness. For that I am thankful. My heart really aches for her family, two sisters, her father, and two wonderful daughters and their families. I know the loss they feel since I, too, lost my mom. It is a loss that comes and grabs you when you least expect it...like when you want to call her and tell her about something that is going on in your life.
This week I have been pondering having our grandson move in with us. He will be 16 Sunday and is with us until next Tuesday. Last year was not a good year for him. He got wrapped up with a gang and tried drinking and a few drugs at their encouragement. He pocketed some of his younger brother's medicine and gave it to gang members. He has been doing probation for the last 7 months. He does not want to get into trouble again, so he wants to be away from all that with us. I know that if we have him, we will experience a bit of teen rebellion. His mom does not seem to want this for him. I could go on about that, but suffice it to say that with us he would have many more opportunities than he currently does...one of those would be connections with a solid youth group at church. So I have to back away from this and leave it in God's hands. I wish we could be part of the solution for Christian's metamorphosis. That is my wishing and hoping for today.
May your wishing and hoping come to reality.
I have been doing a bit of that with a different purpose. Last week I was praying for Debbie's being led gently home; that was accomplished last Thursday. I know from God's promises that she is totally healed now with no more pain, tears, or illness. For that I am thankful. My heart really aches for her family, two sisters, her father, and two wonderful daughters and their families. I know the loss they feel since I, too, lost my mom. It is a loss that comes and grabs you when you least expect it...like when you want to call her and tell her about something that is going on in your life.
This week I have been pondering having our grandson move in with us. He will be 16 Sunday and is with us until next Tuesday. Last year was not a good year for him. He got wrapped up with a gang and tried drinking and a few drugs at their encouragement. He pocketed some of his younger brother's medicine and gave it to gang members. He has been doing probation for the last 7 months. He does not want to get into trouble again, so he wants to be away from all that with us. I know that if we have him, we will experience a bit of teen rebellion. His mom does not seem to want this for him. I could go on about that, but suffice it to say that with us he would have many more opportunities than he currently does...one of those would be connections with a solid youth group at church. So I have to back away from this and leave it in God's hands. I wish we could be part of the solution for Christian's metamorphosis. That is my wishing and hoping for today.
May your wishing and hoping come to reality.
Wednesday, July 11, 2012
A phone call
Early this morning I saw a post from one of Debbie's children to keep all of them in our prayers. I knew that Debbie must be taking a turn for her transition. I messaged her sister and received a short reply that she indeed was worse and that she was sorry but she was very busy. I began praying that her transition to the next life would be gentle. I am reminded so often of the song, "Lead Me Gently Home, Father."
A couple of hours later my phone rang. The caller ID said Deb. I answered expecting it to be from one of the family members. Imagine my surprise when I heard her voice. What a wonderful conversation we shared as she wanted to tell me thank you before it is too late. We laughed some, we cried. I told her no one had fought harder than she has, but that it is okay to not keep fighting. I love her like a sister. We laughed as I spouted off her birthday date as we had to do so often when we were together for her stem cell transplant.
Debbie has requested that I pray for her arms to stop hurting. The cancer she has is so painful, multiple myoloma. I told her that I am also praying for a gentle transition. It was okay for me to tell her that...she wants to go to sleep and wake up on the other side.
Amidst my tears, I wish my dear friend/sister Godspeed.
A couple of hours later my phone rang. The caller ID said Deb. I answered expecting it to be from one of the family members. Imagine my surprise when I heard her voice. What a wonderful conversation we shared as she wanted to tell me thank you before it is too late. We laughed some, we cried. I told her no one had fought harder than she has, but that it is okay to not keep fighting. I love her like a sister. We laughed as I spouted off her birthday date as we had to do so often when we were together for her stem cell transplant.
Debbie has requested that I pray for her arms to stop hurting. The cancer she has is so painful, multiple myoloma. I told her that I am also praying for a gentle transition. It was okay for me to tell her that...she wants to go to sleep and wake up on the other side.
Amidst my tears, I wish my dear friend/sister Godspeed.
Monday, June 25, 2012
Friendships: Silver and Gold
I am reminded of the old addage, "Make new friends, but keep the old. One is silver, the other Gold."
This weekend we traveled to Athens, TN where we moved about 26 years ago. The church we attended, Ohio Avenue Church of Christ, built a new building and moved in June 1987. We were invited to attend their festivities celebrating 25 years as Athens Church of Christ.
A lot has changed in that time. Our children have children of their own. Laura, Louis, and Elle were able to join us Sunday morning. It was great being able to share my precious Elle with those who have meant so much. Many who were so special, the Guthries, the Cates, the Williams, the Dennises, and Granny Sewell have all gone to claim their robes and crowns. I can imagine they were singing the old songs and eating the barbeque with us in spirit.
Many old friends were there...too many to name. We enjoyed time with all of them. Life goes on, but friendships last. They are stronger than time and distance. So for a Silver anniversary we were given gifts of gold through friendships renewed.
I wish you golden times and memories!
This weekend we traveled to Athens, TN where we moved about 26 years ago. The church we attended, Ohio Avenue Church of Christ, built a new building and moved in June 1987. We were invited to attend their festivities celebrating 25 years as Athens Church of Christ.
A lot has changed in that time. Our children have children of their own. Laura, Louis, and Elle were able to join us Sunday morning. It was great being able to share my precious Elle with those who have meant so much. Many who were so special, the Guthries, the Cates, the Williams, the Dennises, and Granny Sewell have all gone to claim their robes and crowns. I can imagine they were singing the old songs and eating the barbeque with us in spirit.
Many old friends were there...too many to name. We enjoyed time with all of them. Life goes on, but friendships last. They are stronger than time and distance. So for a Silver anniversary we were given gifts of gold through friendships renewed.
I wish you golden times and memories!
Saturday, June 2, 2012
Reunions
Today I went to my high school sorority, DBS, reunion. Most of the "sisters" were much younger than I. I was asked to attend by my friend, Kerry, who was also my "little sister" when she pledged. Another of our sister/friends, Barbara, went with us. Barbara and I lived on the same street and waited for the bus and walked home from the bus together many days. Both Kerry and Barbara served at my wedding reception. Through the years we have let life come between us. Barbara brought her scrapbook and we got to peek at a part of our past. Kerry brought her DBS composite picture. We played the game of "Wonder what they are doing now".
It was great to be with old friends. Time has been gracious to us. We have all experienced the loss of at least one parent. I am the only one of the three to have one remaining. I hope we will make the effort to get together more often. We went to Nero's after our "brunch" and talked some more. One of the girls from high school was mentioned and that she seemed afraid to get with some of her old crowd...that she has had a hard time in life. I stated that we should be well past the time where we have to compare ourselves to others. Kerry said that was easy for us to say because we were not the one being faced with hardship.
I think I beg to differ. On some level we have all had hardships to endure. They are the times that make our character. If life were always easy we would all be vanilla people.
Today I wish you opportunities to reunite and appreciate the unique spin you have on living.
It was great to be with old friends. Time has been gracious to us. We have all experienced the loss of at least one parent. I am the only one of the three to have one remaining. I hope we will make the effort to get together more often. We went to Nero's after our "brunch" and talked some more. One of the girls from high school was mentioned and that she seemed afraid to get with some of her old crowd...that she has had a hard time in life. I stated that we should be well past the time where we have to compare ourselves to others. Kerry said that was easy for us to say because we were not the one being faced with hardship.
I think I beg to differ. On some level we have all had hardships to endure. They are the times that make our character. If life were always easy we would all be vanilla people.
Today I wish you opportunities to reunite and appreciate the unique spin you have on living.
Monday, May 14, 2012
Word of wisdom
Today after our house was shown, I decided to get out some magazines that I have had for a couple of weeks, but never took the time to savor. The first one was Real Simple. I believe that is somewhat of a misnomer because many things they promote would not come "real simply" to me. I did enjoy one article on creativity. It encouraged us to play and think outside our proverbial boxes. One thing that I found worthy, was the studies that have proven that dementia and Alzheimer's are kept at bay by creative thinkers. Well, I am hoping that my creative juices really start flowing. One of the tactics mentioned was to get on the floor and type, so that a new perspective could be seen and shared. Please note that I have not moved my laptop to the floor to write this missal.
I moved next to Southern Living. One of the best articles this month was sharing "mother's wisdom" from several different writers. Oh, how it put me in touch with some of my early training. One of my favorite, was that each day one writer asks her children if they have their manners tucked in their pockets. You see, manners do tell a lot about us; they tell a lot about our values. I was always taught that beauty is as beauty does; it is only skin deep. I believe that Proverbs 31 tells it best as the virtuous woman is described.
Another lesson shared was that courtesy is owed, respect is earned, and love is given. What would our world and society look like if that were the norm? Another that spoke to my heart was this "Good manners will often take you where neither money nor education can." Here it is again...manners.
I am so proud of my daughter, Laura. She is teaching her daughter (my granddaughter), Elle, to be polite, use good manners, and respect others. If Elle never learns much else, those values will carry her far. It is these simple things that create avenues of opportunities for us as doors open to us because we are gentile people. We are a people that others want to have around. It all boils down to living "the Golden Rule"...treating others as we wish they would treat us.
So for tonight, I wish you grace and creative ways to share good manners.
I moved next to Southern Living. One of the best articles this month was sharing "mother's wisdom" from several different writers. Oh, how it put me in touch with some of my early training. One of my favorite, was that each day one writer asks her children if they have their manners tucked in their pockets. You see, manners do tell a lot about us; they tell a lot about our values. I was always taught that beauty is as beauty does; it is only skin deep. I believe that Proverbs 31 tells it best as the virtuous woman is described.
Another lesson shared was that courtesy is owed, respect is earned, and love is given. What would our world and society look like if that were the norm? Another that spoke to my heart was this "Good manners will often take you where neither money nor education can." Here it is again...manners.
I am so proud of my daughter, Laura. She is teaching her daughter (my granddaughter), Elle, to be polite, use good manners, and respect others. If Elle never learns much else, those values will carry her far. It is these simple things that create avenues of opportunities for us as doors open to us because we are gentile people. We are a people that others want to have around. It all boils down to living "the Golden Rule"...treating others as we wish they would treat us.
So for tonight, I wish you grace and creative ways to share good manners.
Wednesday, May 2, 2012
A Day Full of Serenity
Today would not be a red letter day to most of you. Nothing spectacular happened.
Today was a cherished day for me because I was intentional about the things I did. This morning started with finishing my homework for James, Mercy Triumphs by Beth Moore. It led me to read the whole book of James aloud and then write under each block for a corresponding chapter what jumped out at me. Could it be that the Holy Spirit was telling me what I need to do to improve my life. I choose to believe this was His message to me. Therefore, I will endeavor to watch my tongue, love others whole heartedly, show Christ by my actions and service to others....and, most importantly, I will pray fervently without doubting that He is able and willing to answer my prayers. WHEW!!!
After that, I went and bought groceries...really stuck to my list without a lot of impulse buying. That is a hard one for me because I am usually trapped by all the enticing end caps with such good bargains that I did not realize we needed. Most of the time we did not need them.
Then, I relished the time I sat in my swing reading my book club selection, Lost in Shangri La. It is not a joyful read, but it does impart some WW II history I did not know. It tell of a plane crash in Dutch New Guinea, and how the survivors fared. I am about 1/4 of the way through and am still drawn to continue.
The next thing I accomplished was starting back to my work out at Longview Rec Center. I had left this off way too long. My blood sugar and weight readings have revealed this to me for a couple of weeks. Today is the first day to get with the program and take charge of my health once again. Even though I have been eating properly, without the exercise, it can be futile.
Tonight we get to share a meal with some of our Otter Creek family and help the youth group raise money for a mission trip this summer. Then I will once again join with my sweet small group to discuss our Beth Moore study. This is winding down; I have not been able to participate as I had planned with them. God had other plans for me that took precedence over being there, but I sure am happy that I can be with them again!!!
So, I will close by wishing you days of intentional choices that lead to a serenity for you!
Today was a cherished day for me because I was intentional about the things I did. This morning started with finishing my homework for James, Mercy Triumphs by Beth Moore. It led me to read the whole book of James aloud and then write under each block for a corresponding chapter what jumped out at me. Could it be that the Holy Spirit was telling me what I need to do to improve my life. I choose to believe this was His message to me. Therefore, I will endeavor to watch my tongue, love others whole heartedly, show Christ by my actions and service to others....and, most importantly, I will pray fervently without doubting that He is able and willing to answer my prayers. WHEW!!!
After that, I went and bought groceries...really stuck to my list without a lot of impulse buying. That is a hard one for me because I am usually trapped by all the enticing end caps with such good bargains that I did not realize we needed. Most of the time we did not need them.
Then, I relished the time I sat in my swing reading my book club selection, Lost in Shangri La. It is not a joyful read, but it does impart some WW II history I did not know. It tell of a plane crash in Dutch New Guinea, and how the survivors fared. I am about 1/4 of the way through and am still drawn to continue.
The next thing I accomplished was starting back to my work out at Longview Rec Center. I had left this off way too long. My blood sugar and weight readings have revealed this to me for a couple of weeks. Today is the first day to get with the program and take charge of my health once again. Even though I have been eating properly, without the exercise, it can be futile.
Tonight we get to share a meal with some of our Otter Creek family and help the youth group raise money for a mission trip this summer. Then I will once again join with my sweet small group to discuss our Beth Moore study. This is winding down; I have not been able to participate as I had planned with them. God had other plans for me that took precedence over being there, but I sure am happy that I can be with them again!!!
So, I will close by wishing you days of intentional choices that lead to a serenity for you!
Monday, April 23, 2012
Memories are made of these:
After Marathon Village, we went to Nashville Farmer's Market for lunch! What choices we had from Indian to Mexican to Asian to Mediteranean. I opted for Asian and was not disappointed. Then on to purchase produce...strawberries from Portland, fresh okra, and brussels sprouts! Yum!!!
What a fantastic time with wonderful friends making memories that will last for a long time! Wishing you joyous occassions with your friends!
Monday, April 16, 2012
Empty Next...Again
As of Saturday, my pal, Deb went back to Athens to live at home. She will be commuting to Nashville to finish her treatments. I miss her, even though I know she is better at her real home.
Today I am by myself. No one else to fix breakfast for. No one to awaken with, "It's chemo time." No one to look up and see sitting on the sofa. No one to take on rides.
I did seize the day to paint a table that has been in my garage for over a month waiting for my undertaking the project. I still have a few more pieces to do which will give me a new purpose.
Saturday afternoon Dennis & I moved our things back downstairs to our bedroom and bath from the guest room and bath. We then escaped to Montgomery Bell State Park for an overnight get-away. It was so serene and peaceful. Our room had a balcony with two chairs and a table overlooking the lake. We saw geese and ducks as well as families enjoying the great outdoors. I was able to finish a book that I had been reading piecemeal for several weeks. Their buffets are wonderful!
On our way back we took the scenic route and stopped at the new McKay's Bookstore on Old Hickory Blvd at I-40. What a great place! We each found two books to have and enjoy.
Life is full of changes; we meet each with the grace to carry on and learn new opportunities for God's purpose in our lives. Wishing you days full of such!
Today I am by myself. No one else to fix breakfast for. No one to awaken with, "It's chemo time." No one to look up and see sitting on the sofa. No one to take on rides.
I did seize the day to paint a table that has been in my garage for over a month waiting for my undertaking the project. I still have a few more pieces to do which will give me a new purpose.
Saturday afternoon Dennis & I moved our things back downstairs to our bedroom and bath from the guest room and bath. We then escaped to Montgomery Bell State Park for an overnight get-away. It was so serene and peaceful. Our room had a balcony with two chairs and a table overlooking the lake. We saw geese and ducks as well as families enjoying the great outdoors. I was able to finish a book that I had been reading piecemeal for several weeks. Their buffets are wonderful!
On our way back we took the scenic route and stopped at the new McKay's Bookstore on Old Hickory Blvd at I-40. What a great place! We each found two books to have and enjoy.
Life is full of changes; we meet each with the grace to carry on and learn new opportunities for God's purpose in our lives. Wishing you days full of such!
Friday, March 30, 2012
What a Difference a Week Makes
Debbie was released from the hospital Wednesday. Her pain medications have been decreased. She is undergoing radiation oncology to lessen the pressure on her tailbone and hence the lessened meds. Overall she is like a different person from one week ago. I cannot help but believe that God is showing his marvelous intervention as a result of all the prayers lifted in her behalf. I believe that they are a sweet fragrance to Him.
Today she began Cycle 2 on the clinical trial. At the end of this trial, 4 weeks away, the doctor will evaluate her progress and decide whether to keep her going with this chemo or circle the wagons and try another study.
Today we are very hopeful that all is going to proceed as it should and she will continue to improve so that she will enjoy a long life. That is my prayer for her. Won't you join me in this, please.
May you find opportunities to speak with our Lord about things that you deem important. He is so good and His mercy endures forever!!!
Today she began Cycle 2 on the clinical trial. At the end of this trial, 4 weeks away, the doctor will evaluate her progress and decide whether to keep her going with this chemo or circle the wagons and try another study.
Today we are very hopeful that all is going to proceed as it should and she will continue to improve so that she will enjoy a long life. That is my prayer for her. Won't you join me in this, please.
May you find opportunities to speak with our Lord about things that you deem important. He is so good and His mercy endures forever!!!
Saturday, March 24, 2012
How come...
Today's blog is not very upbeat, I fear. I am questioning how my dear friend who has been staying with me for a clinical trial at Sarah Cannon has gotten to be in so much pain in such a short time. How is it that she is now in the hospital with a morphine pump and still hurting so much that unless she improves they can not start the radiation theraphy to shrink the myeloma and lessen the pain? How did she get such a cough in just a day or so?
Can anyone tell me why her family is at odds? It has to be the stress of seeing her suffer. I, too, have been there. Yesterday when she was admitted to Sarah Cannon Cancer Center, it was a bit like deja vue...she may be in the same room my mom was in; she saw my mom's doctor since hers is out of town. I came home and cried...for her and for the reminder.
One sister said she thinks they need to take her home for hospice care; I don't think it is fair to Deb to give up her chance of lessening her disease. If the doctors think she needs to do that, they will tell us. Meanwhile, we need to share in her hope. This is not the sister who has been helping manage her medical care all along...that sister agrees with me. Funny thing is that now she considers our home her home. She has been with us for almost four weeks. I am lost without her here to care for. This morning it was so strange not to take up her breakfast and morning meds. She keeps saying she wants to come home, to tell Dennis she will be up before long.
Cancer is a horid disease...how come nice people become its victims???????
Wishing you days to enjoy the good things in life with those you love.
Can anyone tell me why her family is at odds? It has to be the stress of seeing her suffer. I, too, have been there. Yesterday when she was admitted to Sarah Cannon Cancer Center, it was a bit like deja vue...she may be in the same room my mom was in; she saw my mom's doctor since hers is out of town. I came home and cried...for her and for the reminder.
One sister said she thinks they need to take her home for hospice care; I don't think it is fair to Deb to give up her chance of lessening her disease. If the doctors think she needs to do that, they will tell us. Meanwhile, we need to share in her hope. This is not the sister who has been helping manage her medical care all along...that sister agrees with me. Funny thing is that now she considers our home her home. She has been with us for almost four weeks. I am lost without her here to care for. This morning it was so strange not to take up her breakfast and morning meds. She keeps saying she wants to come home, to tell Dennis she will be up before long.
Cancer is a horid disease...how come nice people become its victims???????
Wishing you days to enjoy the good things in life with those you love.
Thursday, March 8, 2012
Kony 2012
I just sat and watched the impact Facebook and other social media is having regarding stopping world dictator crimes. This is such a compelling movie. I encourage all of my followers to watch and act.
http://www.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Ftinyurl.com%2F7ruzk4o&h=3AQGFqKSDAQF2ai0Jd-SvGYHoOPRvwnNfYEuy-vADHaj0Uw
http://www.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Ftinyurl.com%2F7ruzk4o&h=3AQGFqKSDAQF2ai0Jd-SvGYHoOPRvwnNfYEuy-vADHaj0Uw
Tuesday, March 6, 2012
A Grand Evening
She brought with her a new "office" play set that had been recently purchased. Of course, she was the boss; we were all her employees. She was pretty generous as she kept giving us several raises. Maybe corporate America could learn from her.
Louis, her dad, kept trying to quit, but she kept denying that he could. Finally she told him that he couldn't because he had signed that he would work and showed it to him on her dry erase board. He immediately declared that he had not signed it which constitutes forgery. He threatened to call the police and report this. As soon as he did this, she replied, "You're fired:". Maybe she has an inkling of the real corporate world...who knew that a 5 year old could be so perceptive!!!
Wishing you glimpses of the mundane through the eyes of a child.
Saturday, March 3, 2012
Grand life
It has been a while since I have felt a subject that compelled me to write, but today I viewed a sweet picture of a friend with her new grandson. Her smile was from ear to ear...maybe her whole body was smiling! I told her she would portray that smile anytime she was in his presence.
I know this because it is the same smile I exhibit anytime I am blessed to be in the company of Miss Elle. I am wearing it now even thinking about it. I wear it a lot when I am around Christian, my 15 year old grandson, too. It is the mantra of grandmothers. We come alive as we talk and play with our grandchildren.
Elle left a message on Dennis' phone in December wishing him a "happy birthday, Poppy" and each time his voice mail tells him it will be erased, he saves it once again.
With Laura out of town this week, we have anticipated several nights of having Louis and Elle for dinner; it just did not work out. However, they are all to come tomorrow! I will make a squash casserole because Elle always expects to eat that when I cook. It is one of her favorites. One time I failed to fix it and she asked where was the squash...I learned my lesson. Life just does not get much better:-)
My friend, Deb who is staying with us for a while as she does a clinical trial at Sarah Cannon will finally get to meet Elle in person instead of just hearing about her and listening to Dennis' birthday recording. I am sure she will bring joy to her heart, too.
Wishing you simple pleasures that are grand!
I know this because it is the same smile I exhibit anytime I am blessed to be in the company of Miss Elle. I am wearing it now even thinking about it. I wear it a lot when I am around Christian, my 15 year old grandson, too. It is the mantra of grandmothers. We come alive as we talk and play with our grandchildren.
Elle left a message on Dennis' phone in December wishing him a "happy birthday, Poppy" and each time his voice mail tells him it will be erased, he saves it once again.
With Laura out of town this week, we have anticipated several nights of having Louis and Elle for dinner; it just did not work out. However, they are all to come tomorrow! I will make a squash casserole because Elle always expects to eat that when I cook. It is one of her favorites. One time I failed to fix it and she asked where was the squash...I learned my lesson. Life just does not get much better:-)
My friend, Deb who is staying with us for a while as she does a clinical trial at Sarah Cannon will finally get to meet Elle in person instead of just hearing about her and listening to Dennis' birthday recording. I am sure she will bring joy to her heart, too.
Wishing you simple pleasures that are grand!
Thursday, February 9, 2012
Books
Once before I wrote about my book club, the Church Chicks. This month we read A Separate Country by Robert Hicks. I was to review this today. Through much persistence, I communicated with his designated person and lined him up to join us today. What a delightful time we all shared. He is the same author that penned The Widow of the South.
We learned so much of the back story as to why he would choose to write about a General we Southerners learned to sneer at...Gen. John Bell Hood. He was responsible for the carnage of the Battles of Franklin and Nashville. It seems that he was not maligned until 1938. He moved to New Orleans after the war and met and married Anna Marie Henson, a great and accomplished society lady. This story is about their lives together amidst the birth of a new country. It talks of a man who underwent a great metamorphosis as to what was really important to him. I highly recommend it.
We spent time listening to tales of Robert Hick's family. These stories could rival A Christmas Story and To Kill a Mockingbird. His grandmother was a dowager much like Maggie Smith's character on Downton Abby...I saw a lot of similarity. All in all, he delighted us for 3 hours.
How lucky we are to live in an area so rich in history! I encourage all of my followers to learn some of your back stories before it is too late. Our club leader had 6 men in her family tree that fought in The Battle of Franklin and survived. She even brought documentation in the form of a news article with their picture. Of course Hicks wants her to talk with the Franklin Preservation Society director to share her family story.
We are also blessed to live in an area so full of talented men and women who transport us to times and places unknown except for their writings. In the last two years our book club has been able to speak with four authors: Susan Gilmore, Brenda Rickman Vantrease, Lisa Patton (not the Channel 2 meteorologist), and Robert Hicks.
I hope the love of reading will continue with my children and grandchildren and their descendants. I am blessed that my grandmother loved reading and writing and instilled that in me. I remember her sending in short stories to many magazines penned from her old typewriter on the dining room table. She read Little Women to me as I would settle down in bed many nights. My aunt gave me my copy of A Separate Country a couple of years ago. My mom instilled in me the love of mysteries. As I travel through books, it brings me close to those who have gone before me. I wish you time to enjoy a good book and memories of loved ones in little ways.
We learned so much of the back story as to why he would choose to write about a General we Southerners learned to sneer at...Gen. John Bell Hood. He was responsible for the carnage of the Battles of Franklin and Nashville. It seems that he was not maligned until 1938. He moved to New Orleans after the war and met and married Anna Marie Henson, a great and accomplished society lady. This story is about their lives together amidst the birth of a new country. It talks of a man who underwent a great metamorphosis as to what was really important to him. I highly recommend it.
We spent time listening to tales of Robert Hick's family. These stories could rival A Christmas Story and To Kill a Mockingbird. His grandmother was a dowager much like Maggie Smith's character on Downton Abby...I saw a lot of similarity. All in all, he delighted us for 3 hours.
How lucky we are to live in an area so rich in history! I encourage all of my followers to learn some of your back stories before it is too late. Our club leader had 6 men in her family tree that fought in The Battle of Franklin and survived. She even brought documentation in the form of a news article with their picture. Of course Hicks wants her to talk with the Franklin Preservation Society director to share her family story.
We are also blessed to live in an area so full of talented men and women who transport us to times and places unknown except for their writings. In the last two years our book club has been able to speak with four authors: Susan Gilmore, Brenda Rickman Vantrease, Lisa Patton (not the Channel 2 meteorologist), and Robert Hicks.
I hope the love of reading will continue with my children and grandchildren and their descendants. I am blessed that my grandmother loved reading and writing and instilled that in me. I remember her sending in short stories to many magazines penned from her old typewriter on the dining room table. She read Little Women to me as I would settle down in bed many nights. My aunt gave me my copy of A Separate Country a couple of years ago. My mom instilled in me the love of mysteries. As I travel through books, it brings me close to those who have gone before me. I wish you time to enjoy a good book and memories of loved ones in little ways.
Monday, January 30, 2012
Gardening
I've never been much of a gardener; although I love flowers, herbs, and vegetable gardens. I have always been intimidated by gardening, but thanks to two events, I am loosing my fear of this.
The first event was a couple of years ago when my friend, Yuki, came and helped me start a flower garden. Yuki is my daughter, Laura's, mother-in-law and is Japanese. She has been in American much of her adult life. It was amazing to see her clean out the area we were going to use. She asked for a butcher knife instead of a cultivator and wielded that as anyone else would have done with a garden implement...but better and faster. I wish I had a video of that. We planted several hostas, iris, day lilies, and a nandena bush she brought. None of those died...a first for me. I added other plants later. Last year I bought several flats and planted; some made it, some did not.
The second event was coerced by my friend, Marlene. I am now a member of the Tyne Meade Garden Club. I planted a few herbs this fall, and my rosemary plant is still alive. I am loosing my fear of "what if it does not look like it should". I am just loving planting and seeing the growth and blooms.
This year there will be a third event since I won the door prize at our ladies retreat of gardening with Marge. I have already ordered lots of herbs to plant with her. We may do a bit of tomato planting, too.
Today I cleaned out the beds. I was digging up a dead mum, when I noticed that underneath all that dead foliage, new life had begun. I quickly replanted and just broke off the dead growth and enjoyed seeing the new creation. Underneath the dead day lilies, new ones were bursting through the earth and the same with the hostas. I found a few new iris shoots. It made me think of God's word about as we shed this old body, we will be made new. I hope in the eternal life I will be as lovely as the new growth I discovered today.
Here's hoping you will be surprised by nature and reminded of God's gifts.
The first event was a couple of years ago when my friend, Yuki, came and helped me start a flower garden. Yuki is my daughter, Laura's, mother-in-law and is Japanese. She has been in American much of her adult life. It was amazing to see her clean out the area we were going to use. She asked for a butcher knife instead of a cultivator and wielded that as anyone else would have done with a garden implement...but better and faster. I wish I had a video of that. We planted several hostas, iris, day lilies, and a nandena bush she brought. None of those died...a first for me. I added other plants later. Last year I bought several flats and planted; some made it, some did not.
The second event was coerced by my friend, Marlene. I am now a member of the Tyne Meade Garden Club. I planted a few herbs this fall, and my rosemary plant is still alive. I am loosing my fear of "what if it does not look like it should". I am just loving planting and seeing the growth and blooms.
This year there will be a third event since I won the door prize at our ladies retreat of gardening with Marge. I have already ordered lots of herbs to plant with her. We may do a bit of tomato planting, too.
Today I cleaned out the beds. I was digging up a dead mum, when I noticed that underneath all that dead foliage, new life had begun. I quickly replanted and just broke off the dead growth and enjoyed seeing the new creation. Underneath the dead day lilies, new ones were bursting through the earth and the same with the hostas. I found a few new iris shoots. It made me think of God's word about as we shed this old body, we will be made new. I hope in the eternal life I will be as lovely as the new growth I discovered today.
Here's hoping you will be surprised by nature and reminded of God's gifts.
Tuesday, January 24, 2012
Home Time
Today was a rare day...the second consecutive day that I was home. Oh, I did some grocery shopping and paint shopping at Home Depot, but I did not drive in to Nashville all day. Glorious!
Yesterday I got all the laundry done and the beds changed, so today I started painting a yellow coffee table to put in my booth at Gaslamp tomorrow. I started with a green, but did not really like it. I found a limestone color that is white with just a very minute hint of green. It is going to be fabulous!
I am cooking a pot roast for dinner with onions, carrots, and potatoes. Had I run around Nashville today, there would not have been time for that. The aromas are blending and making our house smell very homey...true comfort food on many levels.
I think I will plan to be more intentional about my time around home. The benefits really outweigh the negatives. Wednesdays will probably be my day to go in and get the things accomplished that need to be tackled. Tomorrow I am cooking at my Dad's for us. I think he is excited about that. Maybe we will do that a lot on Wednesdays before church.
Wishing you time to savour enjoying your homes.
Yesterday I got all the laundry done and the beds changed, so today I started painting a yellow coffee table to put in my booth at Gaslamp tomorrow. I started with a green, but did not really like it. I found a limestone color that is white with just a very minute hint of green. It is going to be fabulous!
I am cooking a pot roast for dinner with onions, carrots, and potatoes. Had I run around Nashville today, there would not have been time for that. The aromas are blending and making our house smell very homey...true comfort food on many levels.
I think I will plan to be more intentional about my time around home. The benefits really outweigh the negatives. Wednesdays will probably be my day to go in and get the things accomplished that need to be tackled. Tomorrow I am cooking at my Dad's for us. I think he is excited about that. Maybe we will do that a lot on Wednesdays before church.
Wishing you time to savour enjoying your homes.
Saturday, January 21, 2012
Sharing Faith & Sisterhood
Oh, what a marvelous week-end I have spent with sisters new and old at Otter Creek! We were inspired once again by the purpose God has for each of us in Psalm 136...that we are fearfully and wonderfully made. Does that not just give you chills to think on the magnitude of that statement?
We are a diverse group to be sure. We ranged in ages from 19 to 87 with a multitude of talents and love for God and one another. Today we were treated to a skit by two of our ladies whom I had not known to be such a riot as they delved into their detective/undercover findings that we are a "cult" with many reasons to back up their suspicions. Some of us were laughing so hard that our sides hurt and tears rolled down our cheeks.
Next we got more serious as a panel of women with different life challenges shared how their prayers had touched God and given them strength as they faced each of their valleys. From rebellious teens to divorce to dealing with disappointments to loosing a child to breast cancer...each shared from their heart. There were not many dry eyes as each of us put our selves in their shoes and saw our own vulnerabilities in some ways similar to them. We were one with them as they opened their wounds afresh and kept testifying to a God who hears our prayers even if we do not know what to pray for...his spirit will groan for us.
That led to a time of self reflexion as well as encouragement and prayers for others. What a way to climax such a time as this.
Last night I was able to join several in a much younger age group as they taught this "old dog" the new trick of Mexican Train Dominoes. I think I will enjoy that game with our family...and as I do, I will think of them and all the things we shared.
I wish you love and sisterhood throughout your life...but most of all...a closer walk and talk with God.
We are a diverse group to be sure. We ranged in ages from 19 to 87 with a multitude of talents and love for God and one another. Today we were treated to a skit by two of our ladies whom I had not known to be such a riot as they delved into their detective/undercover findings that we are a "cult" with many reasons to back up their suspicions. Some of us were laughing so hard that our sides hurt and tears rolled down our cheeks.
Next we got more serious as a panel of women with different life challenges shared how their prayers had touched God and given them strength as they faced each of their valleys. From rebellious teens to divorce to dealing with disappointments to loosing a child to breast cancer...each shared from their heart. There were not many dry eyes as each of us put our selves in their shoes and saw our own vulnerabilities in some ways similar to them. We were one with them as they opened their wounds afresh and kept testifying to a God who hears our prayers even if we do not know what to pray for...his spirit will groan for us.
That led to a time of self reflexion as well as encouragement and prayers for others. What a way to climax such a time as this.
Last night I was able to join several in a much younger age group as they taught this "old dog" the new trick of Mexican Train Dominoes. I think I will enjoy that game with our family...and as I do, I will think of them and all the things we shared.
I wish you love and sisterhood throughout your life...but most of all...a closer walk and talk with God.
Monday, January 16, 2012
To Market..To Market...But No Fat Pig
For the first time in about 18 years I visited the Atlanta Market to add a few lines to my Antique/Vintage booths. Has it changed or what? Instead of walkways with catwalk type grating, there is carpet every where. Instead of 1 building, there are three connected with bridges over streets on many different floors.
Some of the old time vendors are no longer in business...well...my gift shop in Athens, TN is no longer in business either.
I explored several online catalogs on the Atlanta Market site. I signed up with many to be a buyer. That made it so much easier when I got to them to place my orders. Since I call my business Chez Elle, I am adding some French Country accessories that should be fun: two tiered wire shelves, wire shelves with hooks, linen dish towels with black stripes, linen dish towels with black Eiffel Tower, boxes that look like books with Eiffel Tower and some with French postcard decor.
I am also adding some eco products to attract that market: coasters that are made from recycled corrugated boxes with a finish to make them last up to a year. I got several colors of pineapple design and one of cowboy boots. They also had some great burlap table runners which I ordered.
I will be getting some iron that I hope will be as attractive to customers as it was to me. That is always the hardest thing, to make choices that will attract buyers to my booths. This type of product seems to continue on the path of many buyers who come into Gaslamp. I have worked with them for over a year, and I have been able to participate in their selections of treasures to carry home.
When everything comes in and is staged I will post pictures, so stay tuned!
Here's wishing you success in your treasure hunting!
Some of the old time vendors are no longer in business...well...my gift shop in Athens, TN is no longer in business either.
I explored several online catalogs on the Atlanta Market site. I signed up with many to be a buyer. That made it so much easier when I got to them to place my orders. Since I call my business Chez Elle, I am adding some French Country accessories that should be fun: two tiered wire shelves, wire shelves with hooks, linen dish towels with black stripes, linen dish towels with black Eiffel Tower, boxes that look like books with Eiffel Tower and some with French postcard decor.
I am also adding some eco products to attract that market: coasters that are made from recycled corrugated boxes with a finish to make them last up to a year. I got several colors of pineapple design and one of cowboy boots. They also had some great burlap table runners which I ordered.
I will be getting some iron that I hope will be as attractive to customers as it was to me. That is always the hardest thing, to make choices that will attract buyers to my booths. This type of product seems to continue on the path of many buyers who come into Gaslamp. I have worked with them for over a year, and I have been able to participate in their selections of treasures to carry home.
When everything comes in and is staged I will post pictures, so stay tuned!
Here's wishing you success in your treasure hunting!
Thursday, January 12, 2012
Chicks to Later Day
Many of the friends above are in a different group (wherein lies the contradiction), The Later Day Saints. Oh, do we enjoy all the activities that our fearless leader, Marilyn, plans for us. She is enjoying a month at the beach, so...this Sunday I will fill in for her at our Ministry Fair. We hope that others will join us in the fellowship and service that we combine. We do lunches one a month for Room in the Inn and dinner once a quarter for Hospital Hospitality House. We have done so many interesting field trips from Adams, TN to Belle Meade Mansion. During these times we always have opportunities to develop deeper friendships as well as eat at some really great restaurants. We are bringing back our Salt Shaker get togethers this year. We have several host a dinner, plan the menu, then different people of the group bring food and break bread together. Since we will gather 3 times this year, the groups will have a separate dynamic each time we meet.
I like the ability to float from being a "Chick" to a "saint". In both of these arenas, I see God's Spirit emanating from those I encounter.
May you treasure the moments you spend with friends you love and along the way see God shine through.
Wednesday, January 11, 2012
Heros and Hope
My friend Deb is coming once again today to Vanderbilt to have tests to see if she can have another stem cell transplant. We did the first a couple of years ago. I say we because I was given the honor of being her 24/7 care giver. I learned so much during this time. I was allowed to watch as they harvested her stem cells. It did not seem nearly as scary as I would have thought, but she did get very cold. I guess when all of your blood leaves your body and is run through a centrifuge, it does make one a bit chilled. This second time she will have the self transplant and within 90 days, come again with a sister who is a donor match to get more healthy stem cells. But....her multiple myoloma must be wiped clean before she can do it. Last time it did not seem as hard to contain as it has been this time. She is my hero for her fight in this battle!
I was speaking with a customer whom I have become friendly with last week at Gaslamp. Her sister-in-law at a young age is battling the same disease. I had shared with her about my friend Deb when she first told me the news. We together agreed that heros are made by the sheer determination and grit they posses as they battle such horid situations.
Heros do not have to fight in an overseas combat zone. They live in a combat zone daily as they must pump their bodies with chemo or radiation. Often they loose their hair, their appetite, and their energy. They inspire those of us who watch them march with a battle plan for victory! Some are not given much hope, but they still do everything possible to overcome this villian, Cancer.
Many of us do not know how to approach someone with this dreaded disease. I remember when my mom was first diagnosed; she told me that she was surprised (and a bit hurt) that most of her friends had not called her. The best way I have found is to just be honest and tell the person that we love them and are in their corner with prayer. Somehow knowing that so many are lifting them up in prayer seems to give them the determination to keep charging the enemy. It gives them the hope they need.
Praying that today you will be able to see the true heros and give them hope.
I was speaking with a customer whom I have become friendly with last week at Gaslamp. Her sister-in-law at a young age is battling the same disease. I had shared with her about my friend Deb when she first told me the news. We together agreed that heros are made by the sheer determination and grit they posses as they battle such horid situations.
Heros do not have to fight in an overseas combat zone. They live in a combat zone daily as they must pump their bodies with chemo or radiation. Often they loose their hair, their appetite, and their energy. They inspire those of us who watch them march with a battle plan for victory! Some are not given much hope, but they still do everything possible to overcome this villian, Cancer.
Many of us do not know how to approach someone with this dreaded disease. I remember when my mom was first diagnosed; she told me that she was surprised (and a bit hurt) that most of her friends had not called her. The best way I have found is to just be honest and tell the person that we love them and are in their corner with prayer. Somehow knowing that so many are lifting them up in prayer seems to give them the determination to keep charging the enemy. It gives them the hope they need.
Praying that today you will be able to see the true heros and give them hope.
Sunday, January 8, 2012
Sweet Sunday
For the first time in ever so long, I am not working today. I am not out of town either. What a blissful day!
I lost the 18 month old class that I taught for 6 months. I miss them so much as I always miss each group. But today we were blessed with six new little ones to love and watch as they grow and develop. I get to teach them their very first class...Noah's Ark which they will know as well as I when they leave. I had a sweet little girl in my last class who was the most verbal I have ever had. She could tell me ahead of time what came next in class. I missed her today, but she stopped by to see me. I get to teach them to pat their Bibles....and that their own version of the Bible tells them that God loves (name).
I truly understand why Jesus said to let the children come to Him, why we have to become as children to enter His Kingdom. Such innocence and trust of those who are fortunate enough to work with them. Today they had a bit of a learning curve to become accustomed to us, but even amidst the tears, they are so very precious to me. What a gift God has given to me with each baby that comes into my class. I love them all!
Wishing you happy gifts from our Father and the innocence to trust Him!
I lost the 18 month old class that I taught for 6 months. I miss them so much as I always miss each group. But today we were blessed with six new little ones to love and watch as they grow and develop. I get to teach them their very first class...Noah's Ark which they will know as well as I when they leave. I had a sweet little girl in my last class who was the most verbal I have ever had. She could tell me ahead of time what came next in class. I missed her today, but she stopped by to see me. I get to teach them to pat their Bibles....and that their own version of the Bible tells them that God loves (name).
I truly understand why Jesus said to let the children come to Him, why we have to become as children to enter His Kingdom. Such innocence and trust of those who are fortunate enough to work with them. Today they had a bit of a learning curve to become accustomed to us, but even amidst the tears, they are so very precious to me. What a gift God has given to me with each baby that comes into my class. I love them all!
Wishing you happy gifts from our Father and the innocence to trust Him!
Saturday, January 7, 2012
Muffin Mania
I have volunteered to take 90 mini muffins to share tomorrow morning at Otter Creek. I think there may be a few more than that. I dreamed last night that I had forgotten to make them and take them. Guess what I did first thing this morning...yes, I baked two kinds of mini muffins...one standby given by my friend Sandra that a double or triple depending on how many I make.
I did not have any sweet muffins that I wanted to try...so, I got out my trusty Otter Creek Cookbook to look for something that I already had in my pantry. Alas, it failed me this time, except, I found a peach roll up. I decided to try the basic dough recipe and add my own ingredients. Voila! The best "Almost Oatmeal Cookies Muffins" (my name for my creation)
Today I am sharing both recipes.
Country Ham Mini Muffins via Sandra McCarthy
1 cup Self Rising Flour
1/2 cup milk
4 Tlbs. mayonnaise
1 Cup chopped country ham (I do this in my mini chopper with leftovers)
Stir well and drop by teaspoon in greased mini muffin tins. Cook 14 minutes @ 425. Yields 24 mini muffins.
Needless to say, Dennis cannot get enough of these. I hope he will like the following.
Almost Oatmeal Cookies Muffins
2 Cups Self Rising Flour
1 Cup Oatmeal
1 Cup Vegetable Oil
1 1/2 Cups Milk
2/3 Cup Splenda for Baking Brown Sugar
1 Cup Craisins
1 Cup chopped Walnuts
1 Tsp. Cinnamon
Stir all together and drop by teaspoon in greased mini muffin cups. Bake 10 minutes @ 425. Yields 54 mini muffins.
Wishing you joy in discovering new recipes.
I did not have any sweet muffins that I wanted to try...so, I got out my trusty Otter Creek Cookbook to look for something that I already had in my pantry. Alas, it failed me this time, except, I found a peach roll up. I decided to try the basic dough recipe and add my own ingredients. Voila! The best "Almost Oatmeal Cookies Muffins" (my name for my creation)
Today I am sharing both recipes.
Country Ham Mini Muffins via Sandra McCarthy
1 cup Self Rising Flour
1/2 cup milk
4 Tlbs. mayonnaise
1 Cup chopped country ham (I do this in my mini chopper with leftovers)
Stir well and drop by teaspoon in greased mini muffin tins. Cook 14 minutes @ 425. Yields 24 mini muffins.
Needless to say, Dennis cannot get enough of these. I hope he will like the following.
Almost Oatmeal Cookies Muffins
2 Cups Self Rising Flour
1 Cup Oatmeal
1 Cup Vegetable Oil
1 1/2 Cups Milk
2/3 Cup Splenda for Baking Brown Sugar
1 Cup Craisins
1 Cup chopped Walnuts
1 Tsp. Cinnamon
Stir all together and drop by teaspoon in greased mini muffin cups. Bake 10 minutes @ 425. Yields 54 mini muffins.
Wishing you joy in discovering new recipes.
Thursday, January 5, 2012
Pondering
Today I finished reading My Sister's Keeper by Jodi Picoult. It pulled me in from the first few pages. I did not see the movie, but to me a book is so much richer since the characters share their thoughts. I must admit that I hated the ending! The 13 year old who won emancipation from donating a kidney to her sister was not supposed to have died in a car accident on the way from her trial.
Life sometimes gives us curve balls, too. Just today, even though it has been a few years since my Mom went to her glory, I have found myself wanting to carry on a conversation with her about things in general. She would have told me that she was happy that I have dealt with my Type 2 Diabetes and lost over 32 lbs in the last year and 1/2. She would agree with me that Elle is one of the most precious little girls she has ever known, except she is equal to how we loved and still love Laura.
Reality calls me back, although in my mind it could still be possible. "With God, all things are possible." Who knows, maybe we did span the heavens and our thoughts found each other. I like to think that.
Here's wishing you the ability to delve beyond the probable and imagine the limitless possibilities God gives us.
Life sometimes gives us curve balls, too. Just today, even though it has been a few years since my Mom went to her glory, I have found myself wanting to carry on a conversation with her about things in general. She would have told me that she was happy that I have dealt with my Type 2 Diabetes and lost over 32 lbs in the last year and 1/2. She would agree with me that Elle is one of the most precious little girls she has ever known, except she is equal to how we loved and still love Laura.
Reality calls me back, although in my mind it could still be possible. "With God, all things are possible." Who knows, maybe we did span the heavens and our thoughts found each other. I like to think that.
Here's wishing you the ability to delve beyond the probable and imagine the limitless possibilities God gives us.
Tuesday, January 3, 2012
A Wonderful Ending and Beginning
This past week-end we continued our new tradition of spending New Year's Eve and New Year's Day in a secluded cabin in Townsend with our daughter, Laura, Louis, her husband, and Elle. On New Year's Day our grandson Christian joined us to eat ham, black-eyed peas, and greens. We sat around the table and enjoyed being together once again. After KP duty, we were off to the outlet malls in Pigeon Forge. Of course we realized that no one else had that idea as Louis drove around to find a parking space. Everyone took off in their own direction with a plan to meet back at the car at a given time. All of us found bargains that we thought we could not live without except Christian, who held on to his money for something of significance.
We went back to the cabin for a short stop and then on to Maryville to eat at Christian's restaurant of choice, a Mexican restaurant that had a bit different menu from those we frequent around here. We all enjoyed once again the comraderie of being together as a family. After dinner it was time for Christian to go back home; back to the cabin we went.
Yesterday Dennis and I meandered getting home again. We saw some snow falling as we came upon the Cumberland Plateau. It did not deter us from stopping at the VF Outlet Mall in Crossville. Again, we found things we did not know we really needed at wonderful sale prices. The lure of the hunt is just too much for us. After a lunch of soup and salad at Longhorn in Cookeville, we mananged to come home to be greeted by our pups as well as our two grand-pups. They all love us unconditionally.
Today has been quiet as we have been drinking coffee and reading while the doggies snuggle up to us. There is warmth in our home even though outside it is so cold. It brings me to such thankfulness that I am here and such prayer for those who do not have warm homes and hearts to comfort them. Lord, make me an instrument of your service to others in some way!
Wishing you laughter, love, and compassion for others as we navigate 2012!
We went back to the cabin for a short stop and then on to Maryville to eat at Christian's restaurant of choice, a Mexican restaurant that had a bit different menu from those we frequent around here. We all enjoyed once again the comraderie of being together as a family. After dinner it was time for Christian to go back home; back to the cabin we went.
Yesterday Dennis and I meandered getting home again. We saw some snow falling as we came upon the Cumberland Plateau. It did not deter us from stopping at the VF Outlet Mall in Crossville. Again, we found things we did not know we really needed at wonderful sale prices. The lure of the hunt is just too much for us. After a lunch of soup and salad at Longhorn in Cookeville, we mananged to come home to be greeted by our pups as well as our two grand-pups. They all love us unconditionally.
Today has been quiet as we have been drinking coffee and reading while the doggies snuggle up to us. There is warmth in our home even though outside it is so cold. It brings me to such thankfulness that I am here and such prayer for those who do not have warm homes and hearts to comfort them. Lord, make me an instrument of your service to others in some way!
Wishing you laughter, love, and compassion for others as we navigate 2012!
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