It is supposed to arrive today....

 my gift from my little sister, that is.  She sent it last week and they told her it would be delivered on Saturday. She was assured it will be.  Can't trust the post office anymore. They apparently 'lost' it for awhile; I got notification it hit 'Avondale' yesterday morning, and by last night was in Phoenix, and just now I got a text that the package is 'enroute to Sun City'.  It stayed in Indianapolis 2-3 days before they sent it out.  But - it should be here by 9p tonight.  Our mail lady delivers around noon - 3p so maybe then I will have it?  My sister always send unique gifts so it will be fun to open.  I have two boxes to send out to her sometime today - her birthday is Sunday.  LOL just got another notification my gift has arrived at the post office in Sun City.  I should get it today then for sure!

Today is my 'last' working day this week.  I still have work to get done (think minutes) so it won't be too boring... if I can just get on it.  Yesterday morning was busy, but things slowed down some in the afternoon.  We did go over to the deli for my free birthday cookie.  We got our food, I got my cookie, and then the manager offered hubby a free cookie as well.  It was fun to get to see her and she came out and gave us a hug as soon as she saw us.  I love hugs.   I have gotten numerous emails for 'freebies' or 'discounts' from various places for my birthday, but as I have mentioned before, I won't use the majority of them. In fact, this is the only one I've used thus far.... and we're leaving town. Maybe I need to look at expiration dates before I delete them.

The song 'Another One' has been playing through my mind this morning.  It's sung by a Chris Brown.  I find the lyrics, but I can't pull them into here - so basically, the words that keep going through my mind this morning are.... "Miracle, after miracle; Open door, after open door; Here it comes, get ready for another one, another one is on the way!"   You can look it up to hear it.  Anyway - I am claiming that miracle.  I've seen miracles happen in my lifetime, and I am expecting more miracles to happen yet.  The key is always giving God glory for the miracles that happen.  I am praying even now for miracles, and I see some happening, and have happened, throughout the years - and I give God all the glory.  He alone is worthy to be praised.

My daughter sent me a video she had made 17 years ago.  Yep - it was for my 60th birthday, and as I watched it again, occasionally a tear would overflow my eyes.  I remember that day well.  Grandson's birthday.  I had been suffering a severe gallstone attack, but didn't know it.  I was so surprised when we went to Marie Callendar's and I was led to a room with my graduation picture sitting outside on an easel.  In pain, confused, thinking we were having dinner with the daughter.  People everywhere. It finally sunk in what was happening, but it was difficult to enjoy with the pain I was in.  (Tests later showed I had 3 large gallstones pressing to get out - hence the intense pain I felt; I thought it was my heart! and almost went to the ER)  But I remember the evening; I just wish I was more alert and able to enjoy it more.  I didn't even change clothes from work - wore t-shirt and blue jeans!  Anyway - the video - yes, there was a video made and I watched it.  I have the dvd here somewhere of it as well.  But it will be nice to save on the computer this morning so that I can watch it anytime.

Hubby has his bible study tonight with his friend, and I have a jar of salsa to get to a grandson. Plus a couple things for his dad.  Haven't decided yet if I will drive over to their place or take up to my daughter in law before she leaves work tonight.  

I have a 9:30a with Morgan this morning, my last one for this week.  Hubby's is at 10a, I think.  I know today will be legs.... ugh... which means in two days I will be walking and sitting with great difficulty. Oh well, got to get this body in shape so that it can keep moving, right?

I still have mixed emotions about going on vacation as my son has surgery on Thursday ... I would stay in a heart beat if he wanted me to, but he has told me to go on vacation as his wife will be there.  It's still a serious operation, even if just overnight.  I will be in prayer for him, for sure, and I want to be there with him.  I could have moved the vacation out - that would have been no problem. And if he asked me today, I would still cancel and move the date out.  But I respect his wishes.  But for his major surgery, I will be there.  This one is serious, but I don't want to infringe upon my rights as a mother to be there. He has a wife, and children.  They are first. He knows (I hope) that I will be there in prayer.

2 Corinthians 9:8 (NKJV):  And God is able to make all grace abound toward you, that you, always having all sufficiency in all things, may have an abundance for every good work.

When we remember that all we have comes from God, His perfect and total provision, it removes the fear that often prevents us giving to others. We think we won't have.  But God.  He is able to make all grace abound to us.  We can rest in His grace that we have all that we need, and what we have need of, He will supply for us.  One thing my mama taught me growing up that is good..... You can never outgive God.  The more you give to Him; give away.... the more He returns to you.  He will supply all you NEED (not necessarily all we WANT - there is a difference!)..

I remember growing up we didn't have much at all.  I've mentioned before I had two dresses for all my elementary school years.  My step brother worked at a department store and one year he stole some things... of which I had gotten dresses from him for Christmas that year.  I was so excited; I had to be about 9 or 10, I imagine.  But he got caught shortly afterwards, went to jail.  I had to return all but one or two of the dresses (that I hadn't worn).  I don't remember how long he was in jail, but not long.  I think he died a few years later.  I didn't know him very well as he never lived with us after my mother remarried.  Anyway - thinking about it, I know that God supplied what we needed, (and didn't even know that we needed it!)... but getting dolls and things like that - it didn't happen.  With 11 kids, none of us got a lot, trust me!

God has proven how much He can provide for us over the years - and it isn't always just even needs.  He often gives us also what we want.  He loves to surprise us with the little things, and those little things we must take notice of.  So many times we take things for granted; that they should happen, or they should be there for us.  But do we pause to think that perhaps God orchestrated that green light when we needed to get somewhere?  That red light when He wanted us to slow down a bit?  It's the little things He does for us that we need to pay more attention to.

And, of course, I need to pay attention to the clock and get off here and ready for work.  The computer is already turned on, but I do need to get dressed yet.  So I'm off here for today.  I pray that you have a blessed day, that you will know the overwhelming love of God today for you.

Blessings!

And it was a very good day!

 I did have a very good birthday.  We went to church, came home and changed clothes, then headed to out granddaughter's for 'lunner'.  It was soooo good!  And she even had a chocolate cake - which we think was Tres Leche - but whatever it was, it was so good, we brought some home with us (still debating on sharing with Ms. Vicky) - as well as leftover carne asada meat and tortillas.  Our granddaughter was offering us all sorts of things to bring home with us.  I left the jar of salsa I had taken over.... we had already eaten half of it, but hope they enjoyed the rest - it really was good.  All the meal was good and I fixed myself TWO of the carne asadas!  Along with pinto beans, spanish rice, and the grandson-in-law even fixed cut up cactus - and you know what - it wasn't bad!  I put it in my tortilla along with the meat and other condiments - and it actually had a good taste.  First time eating cactus that I'm aware of.

All in all, the meal was delicious, we had a good time visiting our granddaughter and her family.  Our little one didn't come running with the "Oma I've missed you!" that I love, but she and I did play a couple games after we ate.  Perhaps at nearly 6 years old, I am expecting too much? LOL  I sure do love my grand and great-grand children!

I am to work only two days this week (oh, darn!) before we head off to another area of the state.  I sure do hope it is cooler there!  I'm debating on taking tomorrow off to prepare somewhat, but it is not really necessary I do so.  I can get done whatever I need to while working.  I got my laundry completed Friday morning, and of course yesterday hubby asked about my laundry, what did I need washed, etc. for he plans to do it today and tomorrow.  I just told him "I'm ok".  I'll dig out my bag sometime today and start putting things in it.  I will be in t-shirts and jeans/shorts for the rest of the week for I have no plans for us to go out to eat at a fancy place; don't know of any nearby where we are staying anyway.  In fact, I haven't looked at the AIRBNB for awhile - I don't even know what it looks like inside!  I kind of wish I had looked more for a place, but frustration had set in and I wanted to keep the $ in line with what was leftover of our tax refund, so grabbed this one.  Hopefully, it will be a nice quiet place. 

My daughter sent me a gift that I received yesterday and it is really cute!  I put it together when we got home yesterday.  It's wooden, and it's on a stand and has 'books read this year' on it - and what I add is the number of books I've read.  I could tell from Goodreads how many I  have read (32 out of my 50 goal) and was able to put 032 on the numbers.  Pretty cool - and fun to see and remind me to keep reading!  I love a challenge, and this will keep me focused on it!  

I want to go to the deli nearby for an early dinner tonight.... one couple at church we have met, she works as a manager there.  I mentioned yesterday I was going to stop by and get my 'free cookie' - and so of course she asked when my birthday was... and when we were leaving, she came over and gave me a hug and said she hoped I made it over for my free cookie!  It's nice to have a friend at church that I can possibly see elsewhere, even if it is their place of employment!

Hubby told me after church that one of the pastors, Pastor Josh, who is in charge of small groups, aka life groups, had pulled him over on our way out and asked if we would lead a life group table at the church starting in September.  Hubby said he'd have to talk to me.  We have our own life group that we got involved in last year, although we have broken up for the summer.  We plan to meet back in September as well.  I'm ok with saying 'yes', but will let hubby lead it.  It doesn't take much work; just make sure you get the homework done, and ask the right questions and everyone else will do the talking.  We do not have the same teaching style, and well, I'm not going to 'fight' him on this.  I realized yesterday that we have never sat other the other's teaching (other than listening to the other preach).  But, my 'preaching' starts back up in November so I'm ok with letting hubby take over the life group - if he wants to do it.  If he says 'no' to leading it, I will consider it, for it will give us an opportunity to make new friends, and you know I want to meet more people in the church.  BTW, it was a good message yesterday. Pastor John is back and he is doing a 4 week series on 'Seasons' and talked about how not only do we have weather seasons, but we have seasons of life that we go through. 

Psalm 46:1 (NKJV):  God is our refuge and strength. A very present help in trouble.

I can't tell you how many times that I have cried out to God for help in specific situations.  It doesn't matter whether if it is my broken heart that has been beaten up, or someone who is sick and I want healing for them, or even when I'm exercising and I have to cry out "Lord, HELP" just to get through that one 'lift'.  It doesn't even matter if I'm prepared to deliver a 'message'.... I still have to pause and cry out to God to please help me not stumble over the words, to speak clearly, to be mindful, to  - well, whatever.  I am constantly (truly!) calling out to God to help me in any and every circumstance (even with work!) cause I know that I can depend on Him being my refuge and my strength.  

Philippians 4:13 (NKJV):  I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.

I can't tell you how many times (a day, in most cases!) that I repeat THAT scripture!  All things really means ALL things!  It doesn't matter how small that 'thing' is, Christ is our source of strength for all of it!  He truly does answer and even when the answer isn't what I want it to be, He makes all things good in His time. Hallelujah!  What I want NOW may not happen until LATER, but even then, it is in His timing, not mine.

What are you depending on Jesus to do in your life?  In someone else's life?  Do you see needs in yourself, your spouse, your children, that you would like to see 'changed'?  One thing I've learned is that changes that I want to happen, may not necessarily be the change that needs to be made.  Sometimes that change needs to happen in ME, before it will happen in others.  Something to think about.

I can't explain it, but in talking with my little sister last night, I realized (probably once again) that we are really different people.  (In my opinion), she feels that if I'm doing something, she needs to be able to do it as well (think personal trainer at the gym).  If I do something or get something, she feels that she deserves it too.  But there is a big difference here... I am working still and she retired, along with her husband, several years ago.  Instead of living within their means, she is always pushing the limit and then gets upset when she doesn't get what she wants. Does that make sense?  I'm willing to make sacrifices to achieve a goal. (ok, let's not bring food in this)  If I wasn't working right now, could we make it?  I believe we can, but we both would need to be willing to cut back on some things.  I'm willing to do that, but I don't believe hubby is there yet.  He thinks he will not be able to go out with his friends and eat and all... but it really wouldn't eliminate that; just choose wiser.... I would need to quit shopping any time I want something.... and I'm willing to do that. I'm willing to 'declutter' and get rid of some things now!  For some reason, most things are easier for me to let go of than for hubby!  Talk about not liking change!  LOL  

Welp!  Looks like I've overdone my time again - got to get off here and get the work computer on.  Have an amazing day - do something fun for yourself!

Blessings!

Happy birthday to me....

 Thank You, Lord, for letting me live this long.  Thank You for being my God and for blessing me and loving me all these years.  Thank You for protecting me, for guiding me, for being my God.  I love You, Lord.  Even yet today, with all the 'celebrating', You are my God, my King, my Lord.  

I actually 'slept in' until about 5-ish this morning - only because I didn't want to get up. I was awake, just didn't want to get up.  But finally did.  I remembered I had gifts from my big brother that I was waiting to open, so grabbed them on my way to my chair.  He got me my very own Lexus LC500!  Ok - so it's a matchbox car, but he is buying himself a REAL one, and had told me - He PROMISED to get me one.  Daggone, he didn't say real or otherwise so I'm thinking he had this matchbox one planned!  And that's ok. He got me a few other things too and I had fun opening them.

Hubby came in with my coffee, a card, and a gift.  He never knows what to get me so a gift card is usually it. And that's ok too.  I can get what I want, right? :-)  My oldest son stopped by yesterday and gave me a gift that about cracked me up - it's a saying around our family, usually directed at a family with lots of drama - "not my monkey not my circus and I didn't buy tickets" or something like that.  He gave me a t-shirt that says "not my circus, not my monkeys but I do know the clowns".  Hilarious.  My daughter told me earlier in the week that my gift would arrive today.  My little sister is having fits; she mailed her package on the 4th and paid extra to get it here yesterday.  It didn't arrive.  And since we can check 28777 as to where it is - unfortunately, when I check, it is still showing it is in Indianapolis.  I'm going to have her go back and show the receipt and ask them to check - cause they need to refund her money!  It didn't get here and may not until after we leave on vacation Wednesday, unless they 'express' it at no charge! So thus far, I'm having a spoiled day!

We will go to church at noon and then home to change clothes and over to a granddaughter's who has invited us over for lunner (late lunch, early dinner) to celebrate my birthday.  That's very kind of her!  I get to see her AND my great granddaughter... who thrills my heart when she comes running and says "OMA!  I've missed you!!"  Doesn't that just melt your heart?

I did go see Ms. Vicky last night and visited for a little while.  She has already text'd me this morning as well.  Got a text from my daughter, my sister, and both of my brothers.  I'll hear from the others later on today.  It's always nice to be remembered.   Hubby also took me to breakfast yesterday as a 'pre-birthday meal'..... I think he was just wanted to eat out, but hey, I didn't have to cook!  Which I hadn't planned to do anyway (yet, he tried to tell me I cook every Saturday - which I haven't in the past 2-4 weeks, I don't think) as we have cereal on hand and that is perfectly fine.  I'm getting lazy in my old age.... sometimes I just don't want to cook.

I did get my spider plant replanted yesterday but I don't think it is going to survive; think it was too far gone before I transplanted it.  Oh well.  Got my plants watered yesterday.  Need to plant my purple plants - they are outgrowing the pot of water.  Need to give some starts away.  They are drought plants so don't need much water - I usually water good about once or twice a week.  In this extremely hot weather, I have to.

Psalm 139:14 (NKJV):  I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made; marvelous are your works, and that my soul knows very well. 

Have you ever paused and thought about how God created you in your mother's womb, He covered you with skin, He brought you forth and breathed life into you.  How marvelous is that?!  How can one not acknowledge there is a God when we are made so perfect in His image?   Think about it, He created ME (you), and He has blessed me so abundantly with children, with a spouse, with numerous friends.... and so much more than I could have ever asked for.  Our God is such a good, good Father!  How could I not praise Him for all He has done for me?

We often make a comment about going from the frying pan into the fire.... but God takes us from the fire, from the frying pan, and holds us gently in His loving, gracious arms and just holds us close. There is no greater love than His.  On this day, this special day, He chose me.  He chose to breathe life into me.  Yes, I will praise Him.

A story about my birth, I don't remember if I have shared it before or not.  But it is the story that was handed down to me over the years.  For one thing, back then they didn't know if you would be male or female cause they didn't do ultrasounds back then (nor when my children were born - once they were born it was "surprise!" you have a son (or daughter))!.   

My great Aunt Gertrude (my mother's mother's sister aka Granny's sister) chose my name for me.  My first name is taken from my mother's middle name.  My middle name is taken from my dad's first name, and the last half of my mother's middle name.  So I always said I was the 'favorite' cause I am named after both parents. :-)  That makes me special, right?

At the time of my birth, mother and dad lived in McMinnville, Tennessee.  I must have been running a little late, for when mother went into labor, they went to the McMinnville Clinic for her to birth me.  I don't recall what time they got there, but after waiting for awhile, the story goes that my dad told my mom that if she didn't have me by noon, he had things to do and was going to leave!  I forget the exact time I was born, but it was just before noon, I think. I'm too lazy to get up and check my birth certificate.   So I was born in the McMinnville Clinic by a Dr. Smoot.  Don't remember how much I weighed either.  It's been awhile since I looked at the birth certificate I guess.    But I guarantee you, I was born!  Mother and Dad moved to Indiana when I was three, after my younger brother was born. 

I don't remember if the three older siblings were born in Indiana or Tennessee.... perhaps I should ask them.  Not that it matters.  Although Mother was born in Tennessee, my dad was actually born in Alabama.  Don't know if I had ever shared that.  Don't know of any relatives in Alabama, so guess my dad's family all moved to Tennessee?  Don't know!  I know I have aunts and uncles and cousins scattered all over!

And there you have it all.  I am celebrating ME all day today.  God has been so good to me.  I have actually prayed I could live to 103 (unless He raptures me first!) so that I can beat Aunt Grace's 102 years of age when she passed.  I think she was the oldest.  But only 103 if I am healthy and able to take care of myself (aunt Grace was still growing a garden and canning at 100!!).  Otherwise, Jesus, take me Home!

I guess I've rambled on enough today.... hope that you have an amazing day!  If you think of me, celebrate LIFE - and enjoy the day.

Blessings!

Yes, I told on him....

 but I don't know if it 'did any good'.....  I won any bet out there.... hubby used his walker (using it exactly the way he was told NOT to use it - and yes, I corrected him) from the car to Dr. Mark's office yesterday (and back to the car.  And it stayed in the back of my car this time.  As we came in, he is telling Lily (the assistant) that "see, I got it!" and I went on to say "and after getting it two days after Dr. Mark told him to, this is the FIRST time he has used it!"  So then, how did he respond to that?  "It fits perfectly in the trunk and I didn't want to disturb it" or something like that.  Sometimes......

I love Saturday mornings when nothing is going on.  At least I didn't have anything on my calendar.  Went to bed about 9:30-ish, I'd guess (after a movie, of course), and I am very surprised that I did not come fully awake until nearly 5:30am!  AND, I didn't get up during the night.  Looking at my watch report, I was a wake several times, and I remember vaguely waking up - but I still say it records 'awake' those times that I move my arm and 'wake up' my watch.  I don't believe any of these reports.  On the other hand, hubby lives by them and allows them to tell him if he slept good or not.  RME

I've had my cup of coffee this morning and just got me a cup of oolong tea with cats claw honey in it.  I'll let you look that one up if you are interested.  I try to drink a couple cups a day of tea anymore.  It kind of keeps me calm.  Wish it made me wise. LOL

I got a 'fun' package from my big brother yesterday - the doorbell rang, and I waited for hubby to go answer it.  He was in the kitchen, I was here in the bedroom as usual, working.  I didn't hear footsteps, so I got up to go see if someone was there.  He didn't hear the doorbell - and he had his hearing aids in.  Trust me, if he had heard it, he would be the one opening the door!  Anyway, there is this box and the label says, "Nxxx the birthday girl". LOL  I looked to see who it is from and it is my big brother and his wife.  How thoughtful!  I let him know I got it and asked if I could go ahead and open - there are 4-5 gifts wrapped inside.  He told me no.  He actually told me no!  I have to wait until tomorrow!  He does that to me at Christmas too - and yes, I honor his request for me to wait.  I tease him that I'm going to open the gifts, of course, and he would never know when I opened them, but he asked me to wait until my birthday, and I will.  I know what one is (it isn't wrapped) but will leave it with the others until tomorrow morning. I told him that before it is daylight I will have that paper ripped off!  LOL  I think my little sister's package is to arrive today - and when it does, I can open that one!  We never wait!

I do want to go out early this morning (and it's already 7:30) and transplant my spider plant - it is too crowded in the pot it is in and is dying.  I'll move it to a bigger pot.  I also want to scrub down the metal bench I have as it is covered in dust.  Try to clean up that porch area a bit.  Maybe. It is getting hot way too fast - already 94 degrees and when I come out of here in another hour...........or so....... it's going to be hot!  But I do want to clean the bench and transplant the plant before it totally dies.  We must be having a little wind.... I hear the neighbor's wind chimes dinging.....

I don't think much is planned for today.  Tomorrow is church, of course, and then we will head over to a granddaughter's for brunch/linner.... and visit a bit.  Haven't seen them for awhile, so am looking forward to visiting.  Will see how long we last before hubby needs to come home and nap. :)  Other than that, it will be another day.  Then back to work on Monday and Tuesday - and then vacation starts!  I'm still debating on taking the following Monday off.  I have timecards, but I can jump online and do those and still have the rest of the day ..... or I may just plan in a couple weeks taking a Friday off... Oh I don't know.... I think my biggest problem lately has been burnout.... and I need to take time for ME.  More on that another time.

Awww.... my oldest son just called and may be able to stop by later this afternoon.  I have some things for him that I've been holding on to.... just because.  But, he says he has a birthday gift for me - and that always causes me to smile.  Well, just getting to see him makes me smile. :-) (ok, as it does when I get to see my other two!!)

Psalm 149:4 (NKJV):  For the Lord takes pleasure in His people; He will beautify the humble with salvation.

I had to take some time to ponder that verse this morning.  The Lord does take pleasure in His people, and for that we can be grateful.  But He notices the humble ones before Him.  He gives us His salvation; to those who humble ourselves before Him.  I desire His pleasure for me.

We are often told in the Bible not to be proud.  "It's a sin to be proud", right?  Maybe I need to look up that scripture instead of second-guessing it.  

James 4:6 (NKJV):  But He gives more grace. Therefore He says: "God resists the proud, but gives grace to the humble."

Ahhh - there is that 'P' word again, isn't it!  Proud.  There are so many ways it can be used, can be identified, right?  Being proud, and flaunting pride, are two different things, right?  It's one thing to be proud of someone, or something - and flaunting that pride all over the place. Does that make sense?  Some people just want it known who they are and what they do.... and in reality, does it really matter?  We are who we are.  I would rather be humble and let others find good in me, than for me to flaunt who I think I am (or am not) only to be brought down.  I will be humble to receive God's grace at all times.  

Perhaps we all need to pause and do an evaluation of 'who are we' and 'how do I project myself to others?'  People who promote themselves and talk about themselves all the time are usually scoffed at. Most everyone sees through the puffed up personality they want to portray.  None of us are better than any other.  We all dress the same way (well, normal people do).  We all drink water pretty much the same way.  We are only different in the eyes of God, to Whom we belong.  Glory to Him alone.

And with that... I'm going to get off here and go back to my reading.  I love these quiet mornings; may even have time for  another cup of tea.  Will see.  

Thought for today:  When God says no, it's not rejection.  It's protection from what we cannot see.

Have an amazing, delightful, relaxing, fulfilling day!

Blessings!

I survived...

 the 6AM board meeting yesterday without dropping the presentation and having to hunt for it again.  Whew!  Thank You, Jesus!  Yes, I really did pray about it before (and during!) the meeting!  He likes us to ask for the 'little things' as well as the 'big things'.  He is a good, good Father.

In fact, that song has been going through my mind this morning, the one by Chris Tomlin (I think) about a Good, Good, Father.  I really like the one by Crowder that is a bit more peppy and I had that one going through my mind as well.  "Tell me, is He good? (He's good!) Tell me, is He God? (He's God!) He is, Good God Almighty!"  Love it!

Uh oh - my day isn't starting well - I chipped a nail!  Gasp!  I will overcome!

Been busy somewhat already this morning.  Waited until hubby left then put a load of my clothes in the washer.  He hates it when I wash my own clothes!  He says that 'his job' - well, he doesn't do it often enough for me, and although he will 'plan' on doing the laundry probably tomorrow (Saturday), it takes him all day to do just two loads.  So I can do two loads (dark/light) and have dried, folded, and put away in the three hours he is gone on Friday mornings.  Which is why I always hold my breath when he starts talking laundry cause I'm pretty sure I can do my own.  I never have that much; I never go anywhere.  I've even washed my hair and took a shower already this morning!  Granted, I did skip some things this morning in order to do this, but ... I got these done that needed to be.

YAY - first load already in the dryer, second (and last) load in - and it's only 7:05a.  And I fixed myself a bowl of cereal while I was in that area.  You needed to know that - right?  I'm hungry!  LOL  I'm busy today - got to take hubby to go see Dr. Mark - and yes, he said he was going to use the walker to go into his office.  And I'm going to tell on him for NOT using it any other time!

Yesterday I had to take off work early to take hubby over to the dentist office. Actually, I didn't HAVE to take him to the DENTIST, but I wasn't sure how he'd be after sitting in the chair for three hours getting temporary crowns on his two front teeth that had cracked (I told him I think he cracked them one of the times he has fallen).   I was told to call the lab in Tempe on Monday to schedule going down for him to get the shade right, then we go back a second time  to confirm the shade, then the Dentist will put them on for him.  Might go down Wednesday morning since I am already off work, and we won't be leaving until about 1-ish to head to Overgaard.  (I dropped him off at 3p and he wasn't ready until 6p!)

We headed to Master Taco after the dentist office for I was really hungry - and I cleaned up my plate!  It really tasted good last night!  A granddaughter invited us over for a late lunch/early dinner on Sunday for my birthday.  Yes, I will be getting a year older.  Proud of it.  Think about what the alternative is.  Stay at the same age forever or gain another year?!  I can't snack or eat while wearing the invisalign liners and they are difficult to get out (or I just haven't gained that expertise) so I don't snack.  The only thing I can have with them in is water.  So after I eat my cereal, drink my tea (already had a cup of coffee), I will be brushing my teeth and snapping them back in.  Maybe I can actually lose weight because I can't snack!

Hubby won't be visiting Chuck today (who isn't doing well at all) but has gone to his bible study and then will go get his Lupron shot before heading home. He was concerned about getting back in time as we need to leave by 11a to get to Dr. Mark's by 12p.  He's got a biopsy scheduled on a mole.  He was telling me I had to go to Ironwood to pick him up in case the shot runs late.... I told him no, he had plenty of time to get the shot and get home.  So he left angry at me cause I wasn't going with his decision.  Now you watch.... they will run really late (as they always do) and I will have to run down and pick him up and head on to the doctor's office!

I think my eyes were bigger than my stomach again - I filled my bowl up too high with cereal (who can resist the frosted shredded wheat?) .... I don't think I can eat them all now.  Oh well.  Probably shouldn't anyway.

Psalm 71:1 (NKJV):  In You, O Lord, I put my trust; let me never be put to shame.

How much do you trust God?  Many of us would immediately respond with "I trust Him with all my heart!"  But in reality, do we?  Really?  It is one thing to 'say' we trust Him, but does our heart agree with what our mouths say?

As I pause here and think about that, I want to say that Yes, I put all my trust in God.  He has never failed me, why would I not trust Him?  Does He answer every request I've made - no.  Does He even respond with an answer when I ask?  Not usually.  So why do I trust Him so?

Because He is God and I am not.

There doesn't have to be any other reason, does there?  He is my Creator; He created me in my mother's womb.  He caused me to breathe when I was born.  He walked with me through many trials and tribulations as I was growing up; He never left me, even when I had turned away.  He had to turn away for He cannot look upon sin (remember, He turned away from Jesus on the cross because Jesus carried all our sins to the cross on His  shoulders!).  He has never left me alone.

And He won't leave you alone either.  He may - or may not - answer the prayers you pray in the way you ask.  It isn't that He is 'picking and choosing' which ones He wants to answer.  He knows the outcome of those answers and knows what needs to be done.  He does work in mysterious and miraculous ways!  I've seen Him do both!  

But the best thing that God has done for me, is that He chose to save my soul, rescue me from the depths of hell, and set my feet on His solid ground. Hallelujah!  It doesn't mean my life is perfect, by no means!  But I know that if God loves me enough to rescue me, then He loves me enough to walk with me through any trial I face.  He is my strength, my shield, my all in all.  He is my TREASURE here on earth.  My God has cattle on a thousand hills; He can easily take care of whatever troubles me today or any day.  Yeah, He's that good.  And He loves me.  And He loves you.

My friend from work called me yesterday and she is planning a 'glam evening' for several women and invited me to come.  It's in October, and I will need to get a hotel room (she lives in Chandler), but I really want to go. Of course I will probably have to take hubby since I want to stay overnight rather than drive home late, but that's ok. Not the first time, and probably won't be the last. He stays at the hotel.  I'm getting pretty good with navigating myself around anywhere (thanks to GPS).  But it will be a fun time and I get to be with my friend, and other women.  And a weekend getaway for me and hubby.  

Speaking of 'getaway' - we start vacation next Wednesday!  And, in talking with Sue yesterday about the book I read the other night, you know the one where I realized that making my own decision to quit working may not be the plan God has for me, and that I need to keep working until He tells me "you are done'.... I've decided to take more time off work - perhaps only a day here or there, but I think my biggest problem is that I am getting burned out - not so much with work as it is with sitting here at the computer five days a week, with interruptions from hubby every single day, and just not having any time for just me.  I don't know what I'll do on those days, but it is something I am going to be thinking about.

And in thinking, I need to get off here and get to work - have meetings to schedule. Ugh. This one has people in central time, and eastern time, and I have to schedule the people here in MST.  I do not like time zones when it comes to meetings!   Anyway - got to get off here -

Praying for you, that the Lord will bless you today in ways you could never expect.  Be watchful; He is working in you and around you.

Blessings!

Getting an early start

 because I have a 6AM board meeting in the morning and I know I won't have much time to write in here - if at all.  So figured if I type 'something', you'd at least have something to read, right?  I usually tell you about my day anyway.... just saying.

So my Wednesday started out picking hubby up at AAA as he wanted them to do an oil change.  I'm irritated.  I get the notices from AAA because the account is in my name.  I called AAA this afternoon and asked if his car was ready, and was told yes.  So I asked how much.  $221.84.  Ok, so why so high?  I had reviewed the list of things they suggested needed done - and told them all NO.  He not only asked for an oil change, rotate tires, but also an A/C 'recharge'.  What the heck is that?  He never told me a word about it.  I know, he was 'afraid to'.  He acts at times like I'm the wicked witch of the west because he is afraid to tell me the truth. Anyway - it was done.  I dropped him off and came back to work.  Left him to pay for it. 

But my day did start off better when I met Sue for breakfast at our usual place.  I was able to give her the retirement gifts I had for her, and she gave me a birthday gift bag.  That was fun too!  We are already making plans for December 4th - that's the day we go to the Christmas Idea House - and have done it for about 10 years I'm guessing?  I don't know - but it's always fun to go to. She reminded me to put in PTO for that date - so I did that as soon as I got back home.

I take hubby over to the dentist at 4p Thursday, which, by the time you read this, it will be.  2.5 hours they say, to drill down those front teeth.  $600+.  It's got to be done so no sense in putting it off.  Then, we will have to figure out a trip to Tempe, which I will have to take the entire day off cause hubby can not go down there by himself.  Talked with Sue about it this morning, and it's not a problem.  See what I mean by having a great boss and a good job?  If needed, I can take off work.  Friday I have to drive him down to see Dr. Mark about getting a biopsy of a mole on his forehead.  Bet he uses his walker to go in to the office.  Ya think?

Yeah, I started the above yesterday afternoon, plus a little more which I deleted this morning.  Let's see if I can finish this in a short amount of time. Yes, I still have that board meeting at 6a.  It is just way too early to be that alert!  But then, I was in bed by 8p last night; I couldn't keep my eyes open I was so tired.  

But I did finish God, Where are You? by John Bevere.  Personally, I got a lot out of it, and especially the last two chapters I think it was.  The basics of it is that God has His own timing for things to happen.  God knows when we should leave jobs, and when we should stay.  He knows what the big picture is, what the future holds.  I have no clue.  So, guess I need to get all this retirement wishes out of my mind for the time being, for it apparently is not in His picture for me at this time.  I definitely do not want to 'jump ship' and then cause us financial stress over something.  If I want for His timing to bring it all together, I will not have the stress I will have going 'over His head' and doing what I want.  Make sense?  Sometimes it is just better to wait on God and let Him tell me when it is time.  So the question comes down to, do I trust God as much as I say I do?  I certainly do not want to get ahead of Him, so even though I'd love my time back, I will submit to Him and His timing.  I think I do need to take time off occasionally and do some of my projects; maybe that will help me chill and feel better.  I don't mind working, I really don't.  I couldn't stand not doing anything.  But I think I am getting somewhat burned out with the every day same thing.... and hubby interrupting all the time doesn't help.  If I was in the office, I probably wouldn't even be interested in retiring - just because of the social aspect. I miss that the most.  Seeing people and having different conversations.

So I need to stop focusing on 'me' and my 'wishes', and instead turn my focus on work and how I can do better at it, plus in my 'down' times I can work on some of my projects.  If the company doesn't get the contracts it is trying to get this next year, my working may be a mute point.  Perhaps I need to keep working until we find out about those anyway.  Will see!  

Deuteronomy 32:4 (NKJV):  He is the Rock, His work is perfect; For all His ways are justice, a God of truth and without injustice; righteous and upright is He.

All of God's ways are perfect; His way is perfect, His knowledge is perfect.  God has never made a mistake; He will not mar that record when guiding His children.

Doesn't that statement cause you to 'feel better'?  You can trust God; He doesn't make any mistakes. I know sometimes we wonder about that, don't we, when things don't go the way we think they should if governed by God, but if we step back and look at the big picture, He knows how it will end, and He knows what to do and He knows..... period.  We can trust Him.  We can believe in Him.  We can let God be God, for He is.  And we are not.

And with that - sorry - but I got to get dressed and set up for the board meeting.  May you have an amazing day today!  The week is nearly over - whoo hoo!

Blessings!

She didn't do it....

 I noticed mid-morning that Sue didn't Teams message me that she had 19 days left, have a good day, etc.  I started to Teams message her... but got to thinking that maybe she didn't want to 'flaunt' to me that she was retiring. She knows how much I'd love to be 'free' from work.  So I just accepted it, and moved on.  We did 'chat' later in the day, but the number of days and retirement never came up.  Besides, I get to see her this morning for breakfast!!  Yes, I'm needing to cut time short in here this morning because I need to take a quick shower and clean up and .. well, have an errand to do before I can head to our meeting place.

Hubby made plans with AAA Repair to get an oil change for his car... and of course he forgot I could possibly have an engagement during the week... so he scheduled it for 8a this morning.  They open at 7:30a so he can take the car down then, BUT... although the reminder, which they sent to me as 'the account' is in my name, stated he would wait for the car to be done, he is insisting (to me) he did not tell them he would wait, so I need to follow him down, pick him up, and bring him back home before heading over to the 'meeting place' with Sue.  It's annoying, yes, but it's better to subject me to him than him sit around until someone comes in who can take him back home (probably around 8-ish).  I tried to explain last night that they obviously have him first on the schedule as he will be waiting, but he doesn't care. I reminded him he always sat at Liberty Buick when he took his car in, unless it was something 'big'.  Nope, I had to pick him up and bring him back home before I could head out.  Makes sense, if you are insecure in your own ability to do things, right?  He will wait until I am back home to run him back down to get his car.  And that's ok.  Funny thing, I will get the email to see what is wrong before he does, more than likely. Hopefully, for then I can see 'truth' in what needs to be done, if anything. I'm dropping 'hints' of selling the car periodically... and of course he goes off on me so I have to be selective of the times I say it.  If I was retired, then he definitely wouldn't need it.... I would be available to take him anywhere.... but then, also... well, I'm leaving it there.

Yes, retirement is on the mind since Sue is retiring and it is 'right there' in the face.  In fact, I met a friend and co-worker for dinner last night and we talked for nearly two hours!  The 'waitress' kept stopping by the table to see if we needed anything, cause we sat there and kept talking.  She never even filled our water glasses - what's up with that?  Anyway, Idalia and I chatted about retirement, about churches, about God, and what we have been doing.  It was an interesting and lively conversation, and I'm sure people around us wished we would leave, for Idalia talks fairly loud.  But we both gained great insight on things and have agreed we need to meet again soon - it had been over a year this time - so we are thinking about January meet up for dinner again.  Get through the holidays ya know.  LOL  Idalia is one who emailed me when I sent her word about Sue's retirement and she came back with..."I'm sad cause you will probably retire too" and I assured her I wasn't.  At that time. :-) 

Our dentist office called (me) yesterday about scheduling hubby for his two front teeth (that are cracked) that need crowns.  We have him scheduled in September, but she said they had a cancellation for Thursday, did he want it.  Mixed emotions here.  I checked with hubby and HE tells ME to go check his calendar on his desk (he was in the recliner!!) so I did. He had nothing, so we scheduled him in.  This is where it will get difficult.  The dentist will drill and do whatever he needs to in order to prepare the teeth for crowns, and put on a temporary.  THEN in a few days, we will need to go to Tempe (I will have to take the day off work) to go to the lab he uses and have them match color, etc. for the permanent crowns.  I'm not sure if we have to make a second trip or not; cross that bridge when I get to it I guess. Can't let hubby drive to Tempe; I will have to make arrangements for him. I told them we are gone a few days next week so they are going to try to get him in either Monday or Tuesday... and here I was thinking of taking the day off to relax and prepare for our trip.  I wish we weren't going. I do. It's too much stuff going on.

I went to my orthodontist appointment yesterday as well.  I got the first set of liners and a lot of instructions.  I am to wear these for two weeks 24x7 except when I am eating or drinking coffee ort brushing my teeth.  So I although I slept in them last night, I took them out when I got up cause I knew I'd have coffee this morning. I'm going to leave them out for I will be heading out to eat with Sue.  I'll put them back on when I get back home.  One thing about it; I won't be able to sneak and snack (is that a saying?) whenever I want.  Can't eat with these on and I don't want to put on and take off all the time... so the answer is..... don't snack!  Maybe I can lose weight?  Wouldn't that be a novel thing?

Wow - I've written you about my life again... so exciting, right?  But then, what else is there to write about for which I am a 'master'?  HAH!

Psalm 121:1-2 (NKJV):  I will lift up my eyes to the hills - From whence comes my help? My help comes from the Lord, who made heaven and earth.

I know I have shared this scripture before, but it is one of my favorites.  The song, sung many years ago, "nobody knows the trouble I've seen, nobody knows but Jesus" is one that I know I have held on to for many years as well. The two kind of go together, if you think about it.  The struggles I have gone through personally for the past 40+ years, and I'm not pointing fingers at anyone at all, I have often looked to the 'hills' - when we lived where I could see them -  and quoted that scripture to the ONLY One who could help me.  And He did.  I fought depression, I fought myself, I fought oppression.  And only God could deliver me.  And He did.  I cried out to Him many, many times and He answered.  No one knows, nor could anyone believe the past.  Only God knows, and it is in Him I put my trust.

Yes, He has proven Himself to me time and again that in my weakest moments He is there for me. Even when I didn't feel Him near, He was there.  How could I not continue to seek Him, to talk with Him, and to long to just sit with Him?  He had nothing to prove to me, but He did.  He is my all in all. 

Perhaps that is why I long so much to get away by myself for a stretch of time, just to sit in His presence.  If the weather was cooler, I could put up the umbrella outside and sit outside and 'rest'. But, oh my goodness, it is toooooo hot and toooooo muggy!  Even I have been sweating - and I don't sweat!   Reminds me, yesterday I was doing HIIT with Morgan - and I had to go get a towel to wipe my face - I was dripping liquid!  Morgan pumped her arm and goes "YES!"  First time ever I went to get a towel to wipe my face with in working out with her.  LOL  I told her I 'glisten', not 'sweat' - and she proved me wrong yesterday.  HIIT was tough!  and yes, I was praying my "LORD, HELP!" throughout the workout.  And He helped me get through it.

And now I'm rambling (again), right?  Got a text from my son already; he always makes me smile when I get them.  It's the little things that bring me joy.  And his thoughtful words bring me joy, for sure.

I may be much later tomorrow morning; I have a 6AM board meeting I have to do the PowerPoint slides and take minutes. Oh joy. 

And with that - I need to get off here and head for the shower.  Wishing you a day that will bring you joy.  Look at things differently.  Feel the blessings that God has already given you, and be thankful.  Seek His face, that He will turn to you and give you peace.

Blessings!