Back to Routines....

 It's Sunday and we are home today.  Nothing planned for today unless I decide to go to the grocery store.  Nothing urgently needed, so may put it off.  Or I may go to the store just to get out of the house.  That's pathetic, don't you think?  I don't even like going to the grocery store - but will go just to get out.  I did get out some yesterday.  Decided I might go to Hobby Lobby and get some yarn I needed to finish a project.  But on my way there I noticed JoAnn Fabrics and remembered the gift card I got for Christmas.  So I went in.... and that was a mistake.  Yeah... they had their yarn on sale.  I won't share how much I spent on yarn, but let's just say I spent more than the gift card.  And that's ok.  I will use it all.  In the meantime, I put it in the cabinet in the garage because I don't have room for any of it on my bookcases until I use up what I have!  But it was on sale!!  This is why I do not go shopping for yarn.  I really enjoy the projects I make, but it does take me a little while to complete them.  And when I find more yarn, I think of the projects I can make with it.... and grab more...even though I won't be able to get to them right away.

I did make it to Hobby Lobby...eventually.... I refused to go to the yarn section as I found what I could use at JoAnn Fabrics.  I looked at pictures to put on the wall because we still have an area above our couch that I need to find a photo for.  I think I found one, took photos of two others to show hubby... but I'm still not positive.  I may need to go look at Ross - sometimes they have nice photos.  When I was growing up, I remember mother always had a large mirror above the couch, not a picture.  My brothers used to stand in front of the mirrors and tell everyone who would listen how handsome they were.  

We even made a run to Costco yesterday to pick up a few things.  Didn't need much, but I do like their meats.  I've separated and bagged it all and put in the freezer for when we want it.  

Today, I probably ought to defrost the freezer and get items put on the same shelf so that I can see what we have.  Things that have been in there for awhile I usually go ahead and cook up to use or hand off to someone to cook.  Need to put all the veggies on one shelf so that I can see what I have.  That's what we have the most of in there, I think.  I do still see a turkey in there too.  

Today at Sundown ends the fast we have been on.  I have decided I don't like the last two weeks of the fast this year, although it has been beneficial to me.  Fasting social media, i.e., Facebook, hasn't been that hard.  I did it very well that week.  This week I didn't have to fast it, but I decided I waste too much time scrolling through it numerous times a day.  I kind of liked getting some of my time back.  I may go on and check with close friends have written, or one of my children/grandchildren, but overall, I have stayed off of it and I think I will continue.  In the past I know there have been days when every time I had a moment I was picking up my phone and scrolling facebook.  To usually read nothing.  I've decided that my time is more important than wasting it reading nonsense some people put on there.  

I think in the future I will stick with the Daniel Fast, which is what we usually do.  It makes me more conscious of what I'm eating (good healthy food, versus junk food like the peanut M&Ms I ate yesterday) and feeling better because I ate the more healthy food.  I feel better when I eat healthy food, and if I want to live a long life, I reckon I need to focus more on healthy food rather than the junk food.  Oh I had ice cream yesterday too.  sigh.  I love food, and junk food is right in there.

What have I learned from this fast?  I must say that I was able to stick to it more when I was doing the Daniel Fast versus the social media or no negativity fast.  Sometimes we need to stop and evaluate what works best to keep your focus on God.  In fact, I am thinking of going back to my Wednesday fasts.  I used to do that years ago, fasting every Wednesday.  I spent a lot more time praying specifically those days.  I saw a lot more results when I spent the day praying.  

So, did you think about fasting anything these past few weeks, to give back to God a portion of the year?  Was it a certain food?  Alcohol?  Certain types of social media?  If you did, did you find that you really didn't miss it at all?  That's how I feel about Facebook.  I don't really miss it, and if I talked with my children and grandchildren more often, I probably wouldn't even get on it at all.  But, it's how I find out what's going on in their lives sometimes.  Like when my middle child had his shed catch on fire and he really messed his foot up.  How did I find out about all this?  On Facebook.  I would have loved to come over and help, but they never want our help.  

I feel like today may be a cooking day.... Maybe I'll work on prepping food for the week so that I don't have to cook that much.  I did that the other week - cooked up about 10 chicken breasts so that we could just grab and eat if we got hungry, or I could heat up and put with something else for dinner.  I cooked breakfast - my potatoes/eggs/jalapeno pepper/onions breakfast - have a little left over so kept it and today I'll add more eggs to it and we can finish it off.  I had taken leftover chili out of the freezer yesterday so we had it about 3PM - and then didn't want dinner.  I'm getting hungry now so will be glad to fix breakfast.  Now would probably be a good time.

Pastor Jentezen Franklin comes on at 9AM this morning.  Hubby will get his computer set up and we will sit and watch it.  Then at 10:30AM will watch our service.  We were told of the Salvation Army has really good services not far from where we live.  I would like to go sometime.  We already know a couple who go there.  They say the pastor is very good.

A good message is always good to hear.  That's why we like Pastor Jentezen.  We listened to last week's service last night - we missed it before because hubby spoke at Desert Shadows.  It was powerful and gave us things to think about.  Can't wait for this morning's service.

So what's on your agenda for today?  It's Sunday - the Lord's Day.  My prayer for you is that you will give back a portion of this day to Him.  Think about Him.  Read His Word.  Talk to Him.  Listen to Him.

You just might learn something.

Blessings!

It's Saturday..... and I didn't get up until 5:45AM!

 It wasn't late when we went to bed last night - in fact, I'm not sure exactly when it was, but I went right to sleep and slept pretty good last night.  We had gone out for Mexican food last night so a couple times I woke up with that taste in my mouth cause I didn't stay up long enough for it to digest.  But back to sleep I went and woke up at 4AM, reminded myself it was Saturday, again at 5AM, again reminded myself it was Saturday, dozed, and finally got up about 5:45AM.  I was able to be quiet and do my time with God until about 7-ish when Sheeba barked - she REALLY wanted to go out!  So stopped to get dressed to take her out and hubby woke up.  I took her out, hubby made my coffee, and I came back in here to finish up what I enjoy doing.  Reading, praying to God, and then boring you with whatever comes to my mind. 

It felt so good to get out last night and met up with the daughter and son-in-law and grandson for dinner.  We haven't done that in months.  Everyone was in a good mood and we talked and laughed.  Something I haven't done in a long time.  You know when there are those times you do a polite laugh... but it doesn't go deep within?  I didn't get to the tears part, where you laugh so hard you can't stop and the tears come falling down, but it felt so good to laugh and talk with other people.  I've missed being with others so much!

I read a story today in one of my books.  It's about a young man who was given a new car by his father.  His father told him to read the car manual, follow it, do what it says and follow the laws, and he will enjoy his car for a long time.  Well, the young man didn't want to read the manual so he ignored it.  He also didn't want to pay for gas, so he put cooking oil in the gas tank.  Of course then the car wouldn't start and had to be towed to be fixed.  While it was being fixed, he had to ride his bicycle to work in the hot summer months.  He was not happy.  He saved and got a used car.  Again he chose not to read or follow the manual.  He ignored the flashing lights on the car dashboard and the lack of oil froze the engine.  So he got rid of that car and had to ride his little brother's bicycle while he saved for another car.  The next car he got didn't have headlights, but it had working taillights so he thought he would just drive it backwards. He caused a large wreck and his car was thrown upside down in the ditch.  After spending a week in the hospital, six months in jail, he got fired from his job for not showing up.  The next year he had to ride his little sister's bike to a much lesser paying job.  His dad offered to help him buy a new car if he would agree to read the manual and put gas in the car, check the oil, and not drive it backwards.  The son felt like he was being judged so got angry with his dad so he packed his things and moved to another state.  But, with having a record, he couldn't find a job, and ended up being homeless, eating out of a dumpster whatever he could find.  He also found a car manual and decided to read it.  He read it from cover to cover and realized that if he had put gas in the car as specified, checked the oil, etc. that it was to help keep him safe and get him where he needed to go, it wasn't to take away his fun.  He even learned the importance of seat belts and using the turn signals, and how to keep the car in good working order.

So he packed up his meager belongings and went back to his dad and asked forgiveness and said that he would follow what his dad said.  Soon he was working again  - with his dad at his car dealership, which was the most successful one in the country. The end.

I thought it was a fun story and I left out a lot of it.   But think about this.  God, our Father, has given us the Bible, His Word, to read.  If we read it, and follow it, and do what it says, we will have what we need.  I'm not saying we will have all we want, or that everything will be perfect.   But when we take God's Word and study it, and obey it, we will have a much better life.

Just something to think about this Saturday morning.  It's wet outside, it's cool, why not take a few minutes and grab your Bible and start reading? People tell you which book to start in, hoping to get you interested in reading it.  I've read the Bible cover to cover a few times.  And each time I learn something new.  Something else will stand out to me - it all depends where I am in life at that moment.  Am I despondent? Am I happy? Am I feeling God's Presence? Am I angry? Every emotion you feel - God's Word has an answer for it.  Some days you read in it and you shut the book and don't remember much.  It didn't seem like it applied to where you are at that moment.  But hang in there.  Let God's Word sink in and think about it.

Jeremiah 29:11 we all have either read or heard many times, but it bears repeating once again:

"I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans for welfare and not for calamity to give you a future and a hope." (NASB)

When times are tough - God's got this!

When you are hurting - God's got this!

When you are wondering what to do about things that have happened - God's got this!

When you are struggling - God's got this!

When you need someone to talk to - God's listening!

Take a few minutes now and just think over your life.  Can you not see God's hand over you and your family?  He has provided for you even in tough times.  He has covered you and your family with His hand when trouble came upon you.  In difficulties He is sorting out the issues so you know what to do. He gives you what you need for that moment in time.

Do you not see His hand?  Pause, and thank Him, for His goodness and faithfulness to you and your family.  

He is always working on your behalf.  Protecting, providing, caring, and loving... all the time.  He is a good, good Father.

Blessings!

A Phone Call....

 can usually change a lot of things.  This phone call, that I received last evening, won't change a lot, but it will change some things.  With work.  My one boss, whom I complain about sometimes because she makes me learn and work... well, my favorite boss does too, but that's different.  Anyway, Mary, my 'big' boss as in top of our organization called.  What was the message after we chatted for a bit?  "I'm going to retire in June".  What wonderful news to hear!  Mary recently lost her mother and she and her husband had driven back to Wisconsin to go through things with her siblings and probably spent time talking about how fast life is going by.  They drove, so spent lots of time together in the car.  

And he adores her.  Seriously.  I text'd him when they got back and asked how the trip went.  His comment?  "Trip back was uneventful, just what we needed.  A couple of long days but when you're with your love it is cherished time."   How many men - or women - could say that?

Mary explained that her husband is now 66 (she is 60) and they want to do things together, and travel.  They want to make memories together.  They want to enjoy life together.  Life has become precious to them and they want to spend it with each other.

I am so happy for her, I really am.  I wish I had that relationship with my hubby, I really do.  But we don't. Can it be cultivated?  Only by the grace of God.  One Christian counselor used a word for our marriage, but I can't remember exactly what it was now.  It's a long story, and not important to think about right now.  Back to my boss.

I shared the news with hubby last night.  His comment - and non-comment - was interesting.  He asked "How will this affect you?"   What I would have loved to hear was 'maybe we can work on you retiring this year'.  But his question was "How will this affect you?"   And to answer his question, it will mean I will have a new boss that I will have to learn their ways and skills and I will have to do more work than I do now.  Seriously.  

Oh well.  This is my life and I do what I have to do.  My opinion?  Hubby doesn't want me to quit work because he would have to give up some of his 'extra' things (like going out to breakfast) with his friends.  We would have to reign in some activities.  It has driven him crazy that I am home all the time right now because of work.  I stay pretty much in the bedroom, rarely coming out.  Yet, I know what he does all day.   If I wasn't working, I wouldn't be staying in my room all day.

And I would be bored out of my mind, I think!  I would have to find things to do.  I already crochet most every night.  When hubby has the TV on, well, I've signed up for audible and downloaded a few books and I've started listening to them on a headset while the TV is on.  I can crochet and listen.  At least it is learning something and being productive!  If he leaves the TV off, I can actually pick up a book or my kindle and READ a book.  I've done both this week.

I don't know when I can retire...I feel hubby will fight me on it.  His freedom to continue as he has will be reigned in some to cut back on spending.  I'm more prudent than he is.  We would not be able to go anywhere or do much of anything if I wasn't working.  I made sure when we bought this place that if either of us should die, the other can keep this place on their own social security.  It wouldn't have to be sold immediately.  We never know what that could happen.  We are both healthy so it could be several years yet.  So, I guess I keep working until they tell me I just can't keep up.  It's a struggle right now sometimes for me to understand new technology - because I just don't want to learn it.  

I am driving down to the Mesa office today to meet one of the directors and hand off some equipment I have boxed up.  Which means I'll lose about 3 hours of my day and I'm ok with that.  I will be FREE because hubby is now leaving for his Bible study (6:20AM) which starts at 8AM, and I'm leaving at 10-10:30AM and he may not be home yet and won't ask to go with me.  It will be just a turnaround trip for me.  Get there, find the equipment, wait for the director, hand it off, get my things - and head back out the door and hit the road again.  I've already told both bosses I won't be back online until afternoon.  They are ok with it.  Unfortunately, I lose a 1/4 tank of gas doing that trip!  Well, it's all highway driving so it isn't bad.  

So I don't see retirement in my future just yet.  It doesn't really matter.  I would lose more of my 'freedom' that I have now if I did retire.  But I would get to read more, and make more things.  I just couldn't get out of the house to do things.  I want to volunteer at a hospital and rock babies in the NICU.  I want to make a difference in someone's life.  I want to.... do so much more than just sit at home.  So, for now, I work.  It's up to God if I can live long enough to make memories after I can retire. My life is in His hands.

So - if you had a chance to retire - what would YOU do?  What difference in others' lives would YOU make?

Something to think about.

Met no opposition....

 We have a 'housekeeper' coming in this morning to clean our house.  She will wipe down everything, dust, sweep and mop and even does windows.  Not sure what this one will charge, but I expect will be close to what we paid the one we had before.  I sometimes felt 'shamed' by the other one we had because she would sweep and of course it was a LOT of dog hair.. and would sweep it all together and make a point of showing us how much she swept up.  She was thorough, though, and the house smelled good and clean when she was finished.

My daughter got a new housekeeper and shared how good this one cleaned her new house and asked if I wanted her to come clean ours.  I said 'sure' and she is scheduled for this morning to come.  We have a two-bedroom place, but still almost 1800 square feet, so it won't be too bad to clean as pen spaces in most rooms.  I've kind of pushed this one off on the hubby to pay.  In the past I have paid either the entire bill (which wasn't bad, really) or hubby would write me a check for 1/2 and I'd pay 1/2.     

I actually took a lunch break yesterday and heated up chili and sat down with hubby at the table for me to inhale. (Yeah, I eat fast).  Hubby asks me...'what do you think she will charge for cleaning?'  I don't know, but I am pretty confident that it won't be more than what we paid before.  "How often do you think we should have her come over to clean?"  I just looked at him and responded...."no more than once a month at the most.  After all, cleaning is YOUR job.  This is to HELP YOU, because you aren't doing your job."  I could not believe it.  He didn't get defensive, he didn't get angry, he got silent.  

Why?  Because he knew I was right.  He argues with me when I try to clean, saying that it is his job to do the cleaning because I work.  Unfortunately, over the years he has gone from keeping the house clean enough you could eat off the floors to where dust and dirt are prevalent everywhere and let's not talk about dog hair!  I have to ask him to run the sweeper most times.  Daughter got us a roomba for Christmas.  It is still sitting there.  I took it out of the box a couple weeks ago and put on charger.  I have even turned it on a few times and let it go do its thing.  He hasn't touched it.  I told my daughter it wasn't a gift for US, it was to be a gift for HIM because he is supposed to clean.  Supposed.

So after our conversation I got up, rinsed my dishes off and put in the dishwasher.  Washed the pan and wiped off the cabinet.  When he finished and was still just sitting there watching me, not saying a word, I took his bowl and spoon, rinsed it and put in the dishwasher.  And went back to work.   

Just remembered that earlier in the week we had the little leaves from our tree in the back all over the carpet and kitchen floor - thanks to Sheeba who brings these wet leaves in when she goes out to do her business.  I couldn't find where the broom had been put so grabbed the little broom and dust pan from the trash drawer and got on my knees to sweep them up as they were scattered all over.  Hubby stood there and watched me, never saying a word.  Not a 'let me do that and you get back to work' or 'I need to take care of that'.  Nope.  Not a word.

See - I can do some things too.  He just refuses to let me, usually.  Interesting that the past couple weeks, as I look back at the different things I have done and he either didn't notice (like dusting) or just watched and never said a word.

So what did he do after we had that conversation yesterday?  I had also commented about how shaming it was for someone to find all that dog hair because we didn't sweep it up.  He got up, got the sweeper, and went through the entire house, running the sweeper.  And picked up a lot of dog hair.    More will come up today, I'm sure, but I can't stand the dog hair laying on the tile floor and it feels like I'm constantly picking it up.

So - not being negative, just finding something to write about.   I still can't get over he never said a word and I wasn't being mean.  I am surprised I said it because I usually just keep it inside.  But I spoke it and just said, "it's your job.  This is to help you."  Perhaps reality hit that he wasn't doing his 'job'.  

Yes, I'm a clutter-er.... I have things laying around.  I am guilty of that.  In fact, I have books and yarn stacked in many places.  And  I plan to go around before the housekeeper comes and try to put some of them away so she can dust.  

Makes me think about how our lives become cluttered with 'things' and with 'dust' that we allow in.  We fill our minds with things of no value and sit more than we move around at times.  I'm guilty of sitting way more than I should.  After work I fix dinner, then on to the couch I go to either read (if the TV stays off), listen to a book (finally got audible so that I can still put something good in my mind while hubby watches TV), and crochet (while listening to audible or watching a movie).  But I sit all evening - which isn't good for my 'spread' either.  Sure will be glad when it stays light longer - would like to get some walking in.  

So what are you cluttering your mind with?  Is it things that are beneficial, helpful, or just entertaining?  Are you learning anything?

Have a great Thursday - wow, this week has flown by!

My older sister.....

 Today is my older sister's birthday, and if I count correctly, she will be 78 today.  A grandson also has a birthday today and he will be 23.  Where does the time go?  Especially since I usually don't feel like I am getting any older.   My older sister, though, well, that's a different story.

I often wonder how I am so different than most of my family.  I usually mark it up to I am the only one who was smart enough to move out of state.  Although, in all honesty, I didn't 'choose' to move out of state, I got married and had to move out of state.  But that's another lengthy and full of nonsense story.

My older sister.  Growing up I don't remember much about her as she is six years older than I am.  I remember her taking care of us after our dad died and mother had to go to work at the market.  She used to beat us, I remember that.  I was one who always defied her I guess, for I carried with me numerous times the lines of a belt on my body.   She was not a positive influence in my life, and I find that sad.  She was pretty when she wanted to be.  I found a portrait of her in some photos the other day...taken many years ago.  She had make up on and really looked beautiful.  She looked happy.

But then life happened.  But then, life happens to all of us, and how we allow it to define us, to make us, well, we all respond differently.

She has turned bitter, and angry, and unforgiving.  She forgets nothing.  I can remember many, many years ago when she wanted my older brother to watch her children and he turned her down.  It was as if she kept a list .... she began to tell him of the many times she had picked up his children, and kept them. She told him of all the things she felt she had done for him.  He still didn't keep her kids, by the way.  And we all learned at that time that she kept a mental list (if not a real list) of everything everyone did for her - or against her.  And she doesn't forget.

My older sister has rheumatoid arthritis.  She got it years ago, but God healed her.  I truly believe He did.  And she agrees.  But then about 15-20 years later... it came back for whatever reason and according to her, it came back with a vengence.    She isn't crippled, but is heading that way as now her hands are starting to freeze in place.  She falls constantly because she doesn't move about as she should.  She doesn't exercise her muscles to keep them strong.  She has had numerous outpatient and inpatient rehab treatments - but once they stop - she stops.  I know I have even sent her balls that she can squeeze with her hands because she said that would help.  And she says she has stomach cancer and refuses treatment for it.  When she told us about it a few years back, she said it was very slow growing and the doctor told her without treatment she had 10-15 years.  It's probably been 4-5 years since it was diagnosed and many times she has given up on living.  

I look at my sister and the life she has had, and one can't help but feel bad for her.  Three very rough marriages.  Children who rejected her; grandchildren who have nothing to do with her.  Great-grandchildren she has never seen.  She has become a bitter, angry, hateful old woman.  Most days.

I try to talk with her frequently and some times the calls can go several minutes, and other times she cuts me off with an 'I got to go to the bathroom' and hangs up.  Sometimes she is nice, sometimes there is no reasoning with her.  She always says she is ready to die.... and yet... I don't think she is.  I don't feel she is in the place mentally and emotionally for one who is truly ready to die - unless they have no regard for where they may end up.

Our younger sister and I have tried to talk with her about life, about heaven.  We can ask her does she know she is going to heaven and she will say yes.  Then she will spew hateful words about people in her past - unforgiven.  And I tell her, all I can do is pray that God will open her eyes that she will truly embrace Him and let the past be past, and live for now, awaiting the glorious day of Christ's return.  I love my older sister.... I don't always understand her.  She doesn't take care of herself.  She doesn't care about living anymore.  

I always get in trouble with her because I try to always send a gift to her for her birthday and she gets after me that 'I don't celebrate my birthday so don't get me anything'.  The last few years I've given up trying to figure out what she could want; she has much more money than I do.  If she wants it, she can buy it.  So I have sent her food.  Snacks.  Fun stuff.  This year I ordered several little cheesecakes.  She can freeze some of them and let them thaw out and eat as she wants them.  I'm hoping she gets calls from the others but rarely does one go over.  Our little sister said yesterday she had to go over because she forgot to mail her a card.  Come to think about it - I didn't mail a card either.  Yipes!  That thought did not even enter my mind.  Uh oh.  black mark for me!

As I sit here this morning and think about my older sister, I am also reminded that I am getting older as well.  My life has been a mixture of joy and pain, happiness and sorrow.  But I don't feel that my life has weighed me down.  I may get sad sometimes, and I allow myself that time.  Then I know I must pick myself up, brush myself off, and remind myself WHOSE I am, and straighten my crown.   I may be getting older, and my life isn't and hasn't always been the way I wanted it to be.  But I choose to believe that God brings good even out of the bad in my life.  Life is hard sometimes, but sometimes I have made that life hard.  I contribute as much as I receive, I'm afraid.

But there is one thing I do know.  It is better to learn from the past, and then forget what the past entailed and keep my eyes focused on the prize that is before me.   The prize?  The prize of belonging to Jesus.  I shutter to think how my life would be if I didn't have Jesus to guide and direct my path.  When I choose Him, my life is His, and He directs me in the way I should go.  It's when I decide I know better that I trip and I fall flat on my face.  So why not choose Him?

This morning as I sip my coffee (which, by the way, tastes just fine this morning since I didn't take my zinc tablet yet), I am reminded of the goodness of God in my life.  He blessed me with three beautiful children, lots of grandchildren that turn my hair even grayer in some cases, and now with beautiful great-grandchildren.  God has been so good to me.  In spite of the things I've done that were not pleasing to Him; in spite of the choices I made; God has never given up on me.  He continually draws me close to His heart.

And, in spite of your past; in spite of what you have done, in spite of what you are doing that is not pleasing to God, thinking it is done in secret; He still loves you and is drawing you close to His heart.  It isn't my job to tell you right from wrong.  That is my opinion.  God is the Ultimate Judge and He will show you the way in which you should walk.  Choose wisely.  Children and grandchildren may follow in your footsteps.  

Happy birthday, Sis.   for you iI pray that today you will have a day pain-free, and full of forgiveness, and full of joy.

Blessings!

My stomach and early morning coffee....

 I don't know what is going on with my tummy but for the past couple weeks I have been unable to finish the coffee hubby brings in to me to drink while doing my quiet time.  Not sure what that is about.  Even by taking just a few small sips, my tummy starts feeling a bit nauseous.   Now I love coffee, and usually the stronger the better, but for a few weeks now - not daily, mind you, but on an occasional morning (and this morning, which brings me to write about it) I start backing away from the coffee and not drink it.  Could hubby be putting something in it?  LOL  Doubtful.  He would have much difficulty in life without me.  Truth.  Not sure what it is.  After many, many years of drinking coffee at 4AM, perhaps my body is saying to back off the early morning hours.  

Oh wait, I bet I know what it is!  Just happened to remember that a few weeks ago I started taking zinc!  I have heard that zinc is good to take with colds, with the flu, with this coronavirus going around, that it will help you get through it faster.  As a preventive measure, I bought a bottle and put one tablet with my regular vitamins.  I take my vitamins and my one prescription pill, in these early morning hours to start my day.  I have them here on the table next to me along with a container of water.  It's easy to get my pills taken and then I'm done for the day.  I started adding the zinc a few weeks ago.  As I drink my coffee, I bet the zinc and the bitterness of the coffee just do not get along.  I'll have to take the zinc out and see if that resolves it.  Perhaps because it says 'take preferably with food' it has something in it that interacts with my coffee.  Guess I need to move it to a meal versus a time with just me and coffee.  Whew.  Glad that was figured out.  I do like my coffee in the mornings.

I hear hubby moving about early this morning.  He is going to be going to the rec center and use the gym equipment.  He asked me if I wanted to go with him at 5:30AM... I thought briefly (VERY briefly) and said nope.  It is cold and wet out and I don't think I want to cut my time short in the mornings just to go to the gym.  He is to meet one of his friends there (Tuesdays-Thursdays) so they can work out together then go to breakfast.

I have my weight bench, I have my hand weights, I have my bands.  I can do my workouts at home.  I do miss my treadmill but can go to the gym some time during the day (like, why don't I go on my lunch hour?) and use the treadmill.  I just might start doing that today.  It's daylight.  It's sometimes warmer than it is right now.  We have a new challenge on at work starting today (steps steps, and more steps).  Or maybe I will just do a quick walk (without Sheeba) through the area I usually walked Sheeba in.  It was a couple miles and I did it in less than an hour.  I think I might try that.  

I like that thought a lot cause I can talk with God while I'm walking.  People generally do not stop you if you are walking alone (without a dog).  Sometimes while walking Sheeba they would stop me and comment on her, or tell me about their dog (which was the result of the the lunge and breaking my toe, and the end of walking Sheeba).  Yeah, I will have to see about that.  My favorite boss will often break away for an hour to do a walk just to get out and breathe away from work.  It probably would be very good for me to do that as well.  I sit glued to the computer most of the day; even eating lunch at my desk on occasion.

I've started a new book.  Defined - Who God Says You Are by Stephen and Alex Kendrick - the brothers who created several Christian movies.  This one is based on the movie Overcomer.  If you haven't seen it, you need to.  It is an amazing moving about change, about forgiveness.    The book has us reading one chapter a day, and then has a few things at the end to think about.  This chapter is on The confusion of your identity.  One thing it does talk about is how people convince themselves that they aren't who God created them to be (man vs woman; woman vs man).  When we convince ourselves that we are someone else, it doesn't mean that we are, we have just convinced ourselves that we are.  When our identify is in Christ, we know exactly who we are.   God doesn't make mistakes.    I'm just finishing chapter 2 so have a ways to go.  Who do I think God says I am?  I believe that He says I am His.

I am thinking today is a chili day.  I laid out hamburger a couple days ago and think it will be perfect going into chili.  Yes, hamburger, not the turkey burger that I usually use.  Or maybe I'll make taco soup instead.  Or, maybe I'll make up a batch of both!  Then we can have a variety!  I love hot soup on a cold wet day.  It doesn't matter which one - it will be good.  I'm just leaning towards chili. :-)

Speaking of the weather, we actually had a storm out here and had hail all over the place.  One thing for sure, Sheeba does not like the rain.  If we try to take her out, she will stand there and look up at the sky, then shake off the rain.  But she won't do her business.  She will hold it in as long as she can.  At those times we have to watch for a break in the weather so that she will go.  Poor thing.  We don't like being in the rain either, but she isn't sure what it is.  After all, how much time has she spent in the rain in 22 months?  Yep - she won't be two until March 8.  Yep.  I know what day that is.  Ironic, don't you think?

So who do you think God says you are?  Have you ever really thought about that?  I believe that God thinks you are amazing.  I believe that He breathed life into you so that you can bring joy to others.  I believe that He has great plans for you.  The problem many of us have is that we want to do things OUR way.  What if we should begin to let God take us to things He wants us to do?  What if we would 'second guess' what we want to do and pause and ask God what does He want us to do?  What if we were kind, instead of angry.  What if we were loving to others, instead of just tolerating?  What if we chose to do good, instead of doing nothing?  What if.....  

What would you do differently if you let God lead you today?  Think about it.

Blessings!

The boss is back today!

 The past two weeks have been fairly quiet, though at times busy with meetings.  All that 'relaxation' comes to an end today as my big boss got back in town yesterday, I'm sure.  Which means she will be back on the computer and sending me notes to schedule meetings.  I'm almost afraid to turn on my work computer.  But then, I may be surprised.  OH MY GOODNESS!  Was I being negative already?  Let's rephrase this!

I've had a light past couple of weeks with only a few meetings I personally had to attend and take minutes.  My big boss is back in town now and I will be busy with scheduling meetings and other things she will be asking me to do.  I can't wait to turn on the computer and get started!

Now, which one do you believe?  LOL  Yeah, I usually go the first paragraph, don't I?!  But this week I am trying to eliminate negative words from coming out of me.  That is really hard, as you can see from the above two paragraphs.   Even my thoughts were negative about my boss coming back into town and that she would have work for me to do.

I know one thing I must do this morning and that is order flowers for her.  I was asked last week if I had ordered any - and I answered no.  Then I was advised that we have a corporate account at a few florists in town.  No one has passed that information on before.  I went online last week and started to order for delivery today, but got sidetracked and forgot to do it.  I must go online today and see when I can get them delivered.  Just a reminder of why I am ordering flowers; her mother died of covid a couple weeks ago.

We had a fairly nice weekend.  We did go to church at the RV park yesterday and it was good to see friends.  Stopped for lunch on the way home.  Chilled for the rest of the day.  Worked on a couple crochet projects and watched 'Grace Card' movie.  That movie always makes me cry.  LOL  After the movie hubby asked me if I was coming down with something because during the movie I was sniffling a lot.  I just looked at him and commented the movie makes me cry.  That was weird.

How many times do we allow negative thoughts and negative words enter into us?  Unfortunately too frequently.  I live with a negative person (stating that is not negative) but I have the honor of having two very positive people in my life who help me when I start feeling negative.  One is my favorite boss and my best friend.  We've known each other for 25+ years and it is her I have worked for - wow - for probably 20 of those years in the three companies I've last worked for.  She is the one who took me from the clerical job I had done for years - and moved me into an administrative role and on up into an executive administrative roll.  I have followed her to the last two companies we have worked for.  I adore her - why?  Because she is a very positive person and in spite of rough times or things coming against her, she always finds the positive in it.  I've seen her when she has struggled and also when she is on top of things.  She is simply amazing.  I know all her family and they are all like her - positive, happy, and full of life.  She encourages me to be all that God wants me to be.  Yes, we even talk about God with each other and it is so good to have someone in my life that I can do that with.

The other person is my big brother.  He is a very positive person as well.  I know some of my children hold him at a distance because of his stance against one of my other brothers, but until you know the entire story, don't hold opinions.  This brother frequently touches base with me to see how I and my children are doing.  He encourages me to do things, to keep myself moving.  We challenge each other in different areas.  He had heart surgery a year ago so has slowed down his physical activity but is still building on his strength.  He has never given up.  Even yesterday he was sending me photos of bird feeders that he is painting - and I am really impressed at his skill - to hang out in his yard.  He is always working on his house, doing something in it.  He bought two fire hydrants and painted them a month or so ago and made one a Snoopy and the other... I forget exactly, but it was patriotic.   His project this week is fixing up the bird houses that he has in his back yard.  I love the photos he sends of the birds that fly in his back yard.  Oh yeah, he is also fixing them to where the squirrels can't get to the feeder.  But he also encourages me and pushes me to achieve things rather than sit around and moan and groan about my lot in life.  When I feel down, I know I can count on him to help me see another view and get past my self-centeredness.

Who do you have in your life who can build you up and make you feel worthy of whatever you do?  If you don't have someone, I encourage you to find someone who will speak life into you and encourage you to be all that you can be.  Life is too short to be negative and down on life and everyone else.  

Challenge to you!  Start today and even if you don't feel encouraged, encourage someone.  Tell that spouse how much you admire .... whatever it is.  Could it be the way they cook?  The way the clean? Their stability in keeping things going?  What can you encourage them on?  You will find that as you encourage others, it will bring joy to your heart.

And we all can use joy, right?   Be honest, be truthful, but be encouraging.  Things that are said can cause people to be what you call them to be.  Have a student?  Tell them what a great job they are doing in just getting up to go to school in the mornings.  Encourage them in their studies.  Have a spouse who creates or does something you like?  Tell them so.  Its the little things we take for granted that sometimes need the most encouragement.

Do something nice today.  Smile.  Even if you don't feel like it.

Blessings!

I wanna go to church....

 Today is Sunday and we are going to the RV park close to the freeway today as hubby is scheduled to speak.  It all hinged on the results of the COVID tests and since we both came back negative, we are going.  We have to wear our masks and the chairs are set up that people can sit six feet and more apart.  The last time we were there, there were maybe 40 people.  With the rain, there may be even less.  It is sad, really.  A year ago we would have over 100 people attend.  Now everyone is either afraid to go, don't want to make the effort, or have gotten so used to online preaching they don't bother.

I must admit, and I think I have before, that I have gotten used to watching our pastor (and others) on the computer for our services.  I enjoy being able to curl up in my casual clothes, with a cup of coffee, and my current crochet project and watch services on TV.  I participate in the songs, and listen closely to the preaching.  But I have found I like staying home.  

But I also miss the social interaction with those I love and care for.  (Note to self:  call Ms. Betty today and check in on her; also on Ms. Amy next door)   I miss the greetings, the smiles that go up into the eyes when someone sees me, the hugs, the casual conversations, the encouragement I receive from others just in their greeting.  I so miss that!  Butt to go, even wearing masks, we cannot gather together to chat in our little church.  There are not that many of us anyway in the entire church, but to be so isolated, even in church is distressing.  But, we need to take the first step and go, I think.  Unfortunately, I think the preaching is still on a screen, in fact, I'm pretty sure it is as a friend went and she said it was.  So why go if we can't get together and chat and greet, we sit apart, and we watch the same service on the screen in the church as we do in our comfortable chairs at home?  Now I'm flipping again.

I wanna go back to the way it was!  I want the hugs and kisses on the cheek!  I want the handshakes!  I want the sitting by people.  I want to worship together.  I so very much miss that.  But, I fear that church as we have known it is a thing of the past.

So what does the future hold?  I am afraid many people who went to church before will no longer attend church as the churches will continue to do online church as they have a larger audience.  I believe Free Chapel mentioned one time that they now have 5000 online members - not counting those who go to the churches - and they just opened up another church!  They do so much for others.  I see their posts of getting produce and meat and passing out in boxes to people in cars that are lined up even outside the parking lot.  I've read how they have helped make bomb shelters in Israel close to schools because once there is a bomb set off, they have only so many seconds to get to safety - and these shelters give the children a place to run to and get under their covering for protection.  There are so many things that this church does for Kingdom building.

Our church has tripled, I believe we were told.  There used to be 40 that would come (if all came at the same time and that includes children), multi-cultural, which means we had some people it is very hard to understand what they are saying since we don't understand their language and they are trying hard to speak English with a strong accent.  But the online church comes from England, Africa, Jamaica, Canada, United Sates, and other countries.  Many people tune in to watch our services.

There are many uncertainties in the future ahead of us.  Many things will or will not change, according to our own decisions.  Church will never be the same, we all know that.  Just like work can not go back to the way it was.  I know I will have to go back to the office once they open it back up, but the thought of still having to wear a mask saddens me.  I grow so weary of wearing them.  Why bother to put on make up except around the eyes?  No one will ever see it and it gets all inside the mask.  

I need to stop and get moving this morning to get ready for church.  Free Chapel/Jentezen Franklin comes on at 7AM and 9AM currently.  You can get him on facebook if you put the name - great messages every week.  Which reminds me, our fast this coming week is to "Fast Negativity"  Replace negative words with positive words.  Fasting facebook seems a lot easier.

I have found, speaking of fasting facebook, that I haven't missed the scrolling through it.  I may continue.  I have my 'favorites' and I check the alerts to see if they have posted and will go to that post to see what it is, but then I get right back off.  Yes, I've missed a lot of posts I probably would have enjoyed seeing, but scrolling through is a timewaster.  I would rather be productive.  I can't crochet and scroll facebook.  I can complete a project and donate to someone; I can do nothing but groan over facebook.

So - stop talking negatively this week.  In some cases that will be hard because you first have to stop doing it in your mind.  Lord, help me!  I know I sometimes struggle with it; and I'm sure you do as well.  So let's both try to speak positive words to each other this week.  And then continue it on.

We got this!  and God's got us!   He will help us.  Make that determination to be a positive person and speak life into people by building them up, versus tearing them down.

Blessings!

Feeling Just Fine.....

 I'm still feeling fine so still believe that I don't have anything to worry about as far as contracting the virus.  Still have another week to go of quarantine.  If I get a negative result I'm out of quarantine, right?  I woke up with a dull headache again, but after sleeping so well the night before, I was disappointed I didn't sleep as well last night.  I think it was more I had some things on my mind and couldn't really sleep, rather than anything else.  I woke up early, decided I wouldn't get up - and ended up dozing off and on until I heard hubby get up at 6:45AM this morning!  I got up then and here I am.  I have not stayed in bed that late  - well, I just can't remember when.   Hubby is feeling fine too - except for his usual complaints of not sleeping well because I'm not in the bed, sore shoulder, etc.

HALLELUJAH!!  WOOT!!  PRAISE GOD!  My phone just rung and I debated on answering it because I didn't recognize the number and get so tired of the warranty, issues with social security card, etc. calls.  Then I remembered that we were told by the urgent care that we will get a phone call that will leave a voicemail if we didn't answer.  I decided to just go ahead and answer it.  

MY COVID TEST RESULTS ARE NEGATIVE.  Woot!  Wait!  Does this mean I can't still sleep in this other room and have privacy?  Does this mean I get to go places now?  Do I still need to be in quarantine?  I think hubby will insist I go back 'to normal' - whatever normal means.  But my test results are normal so I guess I can go places now.  

I thank God my test came back negative.  I really felt they would be, but asked Him to ensure they were.  He always takes care of me.

We watched a movie last night that we had seen before but I had forgotten the title of it.  It's about the lives of 12 different people and how they all intersected at the end.  The movie is called 'Do You Believe'.  It's a great movie and I would recommend watching it.  In fact, I think I'd like to watch it again in a few days.  It has a lot of things in it that make you think.

But the main question that starts the movie (if I remember correctly) is 'Do you believe in the cross of Christ and that He died for you?'   It's so easy to say yes, I believe that, but our lives do not show it.  I look at my own life (as I am not to judge anyone else's) and I know of many ways I need to change and be more Christ-like.  And I want to work on that.  Life isn't easy, and God has never said following Him would be easy.  But it will be so worth it.

So I am going to turn that question around and ask you - Do you believe in the cross of Christ, and that He died for you?   Stop reading for a moment and think about that.  I have a book that I read recently that described a man's life who rejected Jesus.  He would have nothing to do with Jesus.  The book went on to share he died and what transpired after that.  Yes, it is fictional but descriptive of what Hell can be like.  I don't want to go there.  My sister and I often comment to each other that when we die, we hope it is on a 'good day' so that we will go to Heaven.  But the reality is that we need to be focused and have a 'good day' every day.

I pray daily for specific things, and I know that I may not see some of these things happen in my lifetime, and as I get older, that time gets shorter.  But I believe that God has heard each of my prayers and that He will answer them, in His time.  So many times we pray and want answers now - I know I do.  I want that person healed.  I want to win that prize. I want all my children in church and praising God. I want the easy road to living for Jesus.  But sometimes God will say NO, and sometimes His answer is NOT YET.   

I think about selling our house.  If we had sold it a few years ago when I first started thinking about it, we wouldn't have gotten as much for it as we have.  We were in a wait mode.  When hubby finally agreed, the market had gone back up and we got almost 3 times more than we had originally paid for it.  I still can't believe we got that much.  But we were able to put a substantial amount down on this property, pay off several bills, and with continuing to work (which is another thing - could we have gotten this house if I wasn't working?) we are currently comfortable in our finances - probably for the first time ever.  I still want to quit work and start working at something else - or volunteering to do things for others.  God will always provide what we need when we need it.  

I believe in the cross of Jesus Christ and that He bled and died for me, so that my sins are forgiven and I can be with Him in heaven when my life on earth is ended.  That is my goal in life.  Going to Heaven to be with Jesus.  What about you?

Do you believe in the cross of Jesus Christ and that He bled and died for you?  That your sins are forgiven and you will be with Him in heaven when you die?  If yes, praise God!  If not, my prayer is that you will think about your life and turning it over to Jesus.  It doesn't mean you have to give up everything.  God will impress upon you what He wants you to give up when it is time.  You will find that you no longer have a desire for it.  He doesn't demand perfection.  He gives it.

Do you believe?  You will feel so much peace if you do.  Watch the movie (I have it, by the way, in case you do want to watch it).  You will see how our lives intersect with others, and how Jesus works in all of them.

Blessings!

"This won't hurt.." LIAR!!

 It DID hurt!  Yes, later after I had written the post yesterday I decided to go ahead and get the COVID test done just to confirm I don't have it.  Of course hubby has to go get his too.  (you can start shaking your head now).... just saying...

I scheduled appointments at Banner Urgent Care to get the covid testing done.  After sitting for an hour (and I was smart enough to take my crocheting to do while waiting), we were called back into the room.  Both of us.  At the same time.

The girl does Tom's vitals first as he is sitting on the bed/bench and I'm leaning up against the wall.  Everything is fine for him.  Then she asked him if he had had any symptoms.  Are you ready for this?  "I have somewhat lost my sense of taste."  I turned and looked at him - and thank God I had a mask on for the look on my face would have been priceless.  "So", she asked, "when did you notice the loss of taste?"  He responds 'About two months ago."  I am dying, trying to maintain composure.

Then she wants me to get on the bed/bench to take my vitals.  BP up which really didn't surprise me as I was out with hubby.... enough said.  Do I have any symptoms?  None other than this crazy headache which I feel is the barometer pressure form the weather.  So since I'm on the bed/bench, she decides to stick that q-tip up my nose first.  I about came off the table, I'm telling you!  Was not expecting her to push it into my brain - and it hurt!  I kept telling myself, Relax, Relax!!

Hubby went next and he 'only winced once he said' and it 'wasn't that bad'.  Yeah, well, it was that bad for me!  I looked at the girl and told her I must be unique cause it hurt!

We had to wait for the provider to come in (I think so that they can charge for an Urgent Care visit?) so when she comes in, she is VERY concerned about hubby and his loss of taste.  Again, he is asked the question, and 'when did you notice this?' and gave the same response 'about two months ago'.  I'm totally dying here.  I had already told him that they wanted to know if it was related to the covid virus.... so anyway... the providers asks him if he has talked to his doctor about it and he says no.  She suggested he talk with his doctor about his loss of taste.  Then he says, "well, usually when 'she' cooks (pointing to me) I can taste it, but sometimes it just doesn't taste like I think it should."

So of course we get the 'will know the results in 3-4 days; in the meantime remain quarantined for 10 days from today.  If we start showing symptoms, we can go back and be retested if we want to confirm (I am NOT - NO WAY!!) if the test results come back negative and we develop symptoms.  OR, we can take tylenol and a DM cough syrup if we need it and just ride it out.  Any severity of breathing issues, chest pains, etc., we are to go to the hospital.  

I asked hubby when we got in the car  'why did you tell them you lost your sense of taste'?  He responded that they didn't ask him if it applied to just this week.  He also started complaining about what was he going to do about his men's group tomorrow, Tuesday night, his speaking on Sunday - does quarantine mean he can't do it?  I explained yes, if he is truly quarantined, then he must remain home.  HOWEVER, with that being said, he has had no contact with our neighbor.  My contact has been brief - and I took precautions.  I feel we are ok.  But, he says, I have been exposed to you!  So I look at him and say, 'well, if I don't have it, I think you are ok.'  But, told him he has to make that decision on tomorrow morning with the men and going to the church.  I'm staying home as a precaution since I had direct contact with Ms. Amy which gave me some exposure.

Ok - you may not think the 'losing the taste' part was funny, but I thought I was going to die becaues I wanted to laugh so badly. The doctor even checked his throat to see if she saw anything.  I have no idea what he was thinking.  But of course I had to share because I was about to die laughing inside.  I'm still shaking my head when I think about it!

But - I feel we are both fine, but I will stick to the quarantine 'just in case' the ride to the hospital and back did start something.  And we will know in few days the confirmation of negativity.  Interesting... Ms. Amy found out her results in 24 hours.  And it will take 3-4 days to get our results.  Hospital versus urgent care.

But I am thankful that we both are healthy and that I have no fear of contracting the virus from Ms. Amy.  Like I mentioned, we both were cautious, even when we didn't know the cause.  Wearing the masks at least alleviated any fear I could have had.  But I am enjoying sleeping in the other room.  I am so serious - I am sleeping all through the night.... and not being awakened by hubbys tossing and turning.  I actually feel like I rested last night and woke up before my alarm went off this morning, and it felt so good to just lay there and 'be still'.

So glad today is Friday.  I have a few things I need to get done today- still haven't watched the instructions on doing timecards and really should do that today.  I'm grateful for my job.  I never thought I would still be working at this time of my life, but it helps me keep some sanity and focus.  How do people manage doing nothing once they retire?  It's bad enough for one person - but what if two people did it?  Talk about a boring life!

Of course hubby is busy doing what he likes to do - going out to eat and meeting up with his friends.  They do a 'book study' ever so often, but when it's just one other guy showing up, they don't; they just sit and talk.  I tried to explain last week when he said only one (out of two) show up - he needs to continue the lesson because the other person isn't consistent and it makes the study not as important.  Either he does the study for just one or just quit doing it.  Just my opinion.

Well, I need to get moving I reckon.  Hubby is getting ready and will be leaving shortly.  I have this morning alone and I'm loving the thought of it.  Of course I still have Sheeba, who was acting sick yesterday and didn't eat... but just to be alone with my thoughts and able to work without interruptions and answering questions is nice.  

Missed going to my daughter's birthday celebration yesterday, but I would rather miss due to caution than throw caution to the wind and bring something to her.

I'm sure God is going to bring good somehow through all this.  I know this is long so won't go into a speel this morning about things going on in my mind. But I will ask you this question.... has God put something on your heart that you would really like to do, but don't do, and feel you can't do, because of skill set, finances or because you don't belong to Him?  What would you like to do?  What would you wish you had done before?  What can you do now?

Have a blessed day!

A little quarantine doesn't hurt, does it?

 I was being a good neighbor.   I check on my widowed 85 year old neighbor every once in a while because all four of her children live out of state - and she is alone.  Her son lives in California, her three daughters live in Florida.  She has lived in this condo over 20 years, from what I understand, moving into it with her husband who passed away I think 4-5 years ago, but I'm not sure.  And that doesn't matter.  Anyway, since she has no one, I try to check on her occasionally.

My daughter actually told me the other night 'that is what I love about you, mom, and that is you always look out for the older people who need help.' (or something like that.)  Made me think of Aunt Mae and Aunt Sue who I tried to help out on occasion.  Especially Aunt Sue.  She had no problem asking me to do stuff for her, even driving from Mesa all the way to her place here in Sun City - which ended up often being a 2 hour drive just to help her balance her check book and pay her bills, do her dishes, clean her house.

Anyway, I checked on my neighbor I think it was last Thursday to see if I could make her some fresh orange juice.  I had been picking oranges off her trees and juicing them up for her and for us.  I got the decanter and she mentioned that she had not been feeling good all week.  I asked her if she had called her doctor, and she had but didn't get an answer.  She was dizzy at times, she had thrown up after drinking coffee and orange juice (on an empty stomach) and had fixed tea in the afternoon and had spit it up.  I asked her if she had eaten - well, no, she was having trouble breathing so wasn't eating but was trying to drink a little water.  I made the orange juice and took it back to her later that evening.   I told her if she needed anything, to let us know.  Saturday I made chicken noodle soup and took some over to her.  

I always wear my mask, she wears hers, and we stand about six feet apart except when I hand her the container.

Sunday I took over some grilled chicken, mashed potatoes and steamed veggies because I was concerned she wasn't eating, which could be causing her dizziness.  She said she still had trouble breathing..... but had gotten in her car Sunday and driven to the grocery store cause she needed some food.  She forgot her mask once she got there so had to go to the dollar store and buy a mask so that she could go into the grocery store.  I chewed her out for going out when she was dizzy and not breathing well, telling her if she needed anything we could get it for her.

Tuesday I made potato soup (I think I'm getting my days mixed up) and was planning our usual girls night out with my daughter (granddaughter was taking baby in for shots so wasn't coming)  when we got the phone call around noon for us to take her to the ER.  She finally had gotten ahold of her doctor and they said to just go to the ER and get some tests done.  So I told my boss I was taking some time off and drove her to the hospital ER about 5 miles or so away.  We both wore our masks, she wore gloves and a jacket.  I actually thought she was doing better, but she said she was still having trouble breathing.  I drop her off - never making physical contact but allowing her to get in and out of the car.  When I got home, got the disinfecting wipes and cleaned out her side of the car, the car handle etc.  Around 4:30 she called and said she could be picked up, so I went and got her.  Again, she got in and out by herself, we both were wearing our masks, etc.  

You know where this is going, don't you?  I really didn't think she had COVID, and all she complained about was not breathing well - she's a tiny Hungarian woman with a heavy accent - and I was just doing what a neighbor should do.  And like I said, we were using the masks and there was no helping her in and out of the car, she did it on her own.  The hospital only gave her inhalers to use as needed.

Well, she called us last night to tell us she tested positive for COVID.  That really messes us my plans for the week.  Last night we were meeting some friends for dinner.  In fact, we were getting ready to head out when she called.  So I called our friends and explained it to them and left it up to them if we would still meet.  I'm feeling fine.  Hubby was never around her.   We went to dinner, kept our distance across the table, and didn't hug.

Today is my daughter's 52nd birthday and we had been invited over for her birthday dinner her daughter is to prepare for her.  I was to bring the salad and cake.  I sent my daughter a text last night after dinner and explained what we had found out..... and cancelled on her.   She understood and was glad that we were cancelling as the baby would be there too.  I certainly don't want to take any chances should I have picked up the bug somehow.

Tomorrow I was to have lunch with my boss and two doctors I used to work with.  We have planned this for two weeks.  I'm going to send them an email today and bail out on them too.  Sunday hubby is speaking at one of the RV parks, and I told him I am bailing on that too.  I'll see this through next week to make sure I'm not carrying anything.

In fact, I told him - and I knew he wasn't going to like it at all - I was going to sleep in the other bedroom.  If he wasn't speaking on Sunday and would be staying home, I wouldn't worry so much about it.  BUT, he is and will be around other people.  So I sleep in this room last night and slept very well.  Of course, in spite of his snoring when I got up in the middle of the night... he will tell me he didn't sleep well. LOL  

SO - you knew where this was going because of the title, I'm sure.  I helped our neighbor, and I'm glad I was able to do that, but I have obviously been exposed to COVID.  The closest we got was my handing her food and her riding in my car to and from the ER. 

We know to watch our temperatures to make sure they don't go up.  I've felt fine, although my coffee this morning made me feel a little nauseous but sometimes it does after I take my vitamins so I am not worried about that.  Coffee still tastes like Hazelnut - which is what I got for Christmas.  My taste buds are good. :-)  No fever ;-) those are good signs.  

I'm one of these people 'don't tell me I"m sick'.....  I will eat us out of house and home just to prove I'm doing just fine!  In fact, I'm thinking bacon and eggs for breakfast would be good... except hubby is still giving up bacon for the fast.... I'm doing the facebook fast this week... it hasn't been that hard, really.  I check the alerts occasionally and if someone has a birthday I will send a note, but I don't scroll.  I'm sure I've missed some important things... haha - but I don't lose an hour or so just scrolling.

It's about time to get to work so need to go get dressed.  At least I had something to share this morning.  I'm quarantined (my choice) for at least another week (I haven't been out other than going to the neighbors until last night in probably over a week).  I figure if I haven't shown any signs of sickness within another week, I should be ok, right?

But in the meantime, no birthday dinner, no lunch with my boss and friends, and no in-person church.  Oh well.  I'll probably stay home from girls night next week too, just in case.  Always better to be safe - than sorry.

Say a prayer for me that I won't get sick, please.  Hubby will quarantine me for a month if I am!  But the thermometer is handy and we're checking both of us for temps.  I wonder if I could use this as an excuse to take a nap in the middle of the day - instead of fighting it as I usually do?  I love taking naps.... just saying.  LOL

Take care of you - you never know who you are with if they are carrying a bug.  Even a little neighbor who lives alone (I don't know if she has even gone anywhere but seems like she went to church the week before).  I think I'll stay in quarantine for awhile.  sigh.  but it can be a good thing.  As long as I'm feeling ok.

Blessings!

Trying to wake up....

 I fell asleep (again) this morning.... only it was during my prayer time.  Ooops.  I finished my reading and had leaned back in my chair and closed my eyes... too lazy to get up out of my comfy chair... and as I was praying.... I fell asleep.  I think I sleep for at least 30 minutes.  The way I look at it, I probably needed it.  I did wake up at 3:30 this morning, but didn't get up at that time, laid there trying to go back to sleep for 1/2 hour but finally got up about 10 til 4.  Now I'm really tired and would like to go to sleep - again - intentionally this time - but I hate giving up MY time.  It'd ok if I fall asleep during work time ... (like that would happen)... but give up some of MY time - naw, I'll do all I can to stay awake.  Well, most times.  I can think of times I have sat on the couch and leaned back to take a nap in the middle of the day.... not often, and not every day... but sometimes..... sometimes from boredom, sometimes just because I'm tired.

Yesterday was a busy/non-busy day.  Work wasn't too bad.  I did have the 2 hour meeting I had to sit in and take minutes.  Other than that, only a few meetings to deal with.  I never got around to doing the lessons I have on time cards.  Am trying to think how I can get out of it today.  I think I am a procrastinator.  UGH  The truth is that I just don't want to do it.  But I have to so I may as well put on my big girl panties and just do it.

My day yesterday was kind of messed up anyway.  My 85 year old neighbor hasn't been feeling well this week.  I found that out when I asked for the decanter I had given her orange juice in last week - so that I could get more oranges and make more juice for us both.  She wasn't moving too well and said she didn't feel good, and was dizzy, weak, and having a hard time breathing.  So I started taking her over dinner so that she would eat, afraid that she wasn't.  I was right.  So yesterday it came to a 'head' and she talked with her doctor who told her to go to the ER for tests.  She couldn't drive, and none of her children are in the state.  I had told her we would make sure she had a way to get there... afterall, we are next door.  So she called yesterday around noonish and asked if I could take her to the ER.  I found out where it was - (positive) - and dropped her off.  She was there all afternoon while they ran all sorts of tests.  Finally about 4:30-ish she called and asked that we come pick her up, which I did.  I thought she really didn't need to go for I had noticed once she started eating she seemed to be doing better, except for her breathing.  Yes, they did a COVID test but she won't get those results for awhile yet.  Yes, I did wipe my car down with disinfecting wipes just in case.  And we both wore masks to and from the hospital.  I hope she will get better now; they did give her some medication for her to inhale to breathe better.  My daughter actually gave me a compliment last night when I was telling her about the day.  She goes "mom, I love that about you.  You are always taking care of the older people who need help."  I know she was referring to Aunt Mae and Aunt Sue.  I do miss the two of them, and now that we are living in this area, I think of them often.

I'm grateful that hubby and I have been somewhat active over the years - although we have slowed down quite a bit this past year.  I'm not even walking now since I don't have my treadmill and I can't hang on to Sheeba.  Although I am thinking of a way I can possibly walk Sheeba.  I had been told by one trainer that she is a 'working dog' and should get a specific type of harness for her - which we did.  If we add something to each side of the harness, it gives her something to carry, which slows her down.  So I'm thinking if I dig out that harness and add a couple books to each side, then perhaps I can keep her from pulling on me so hard.  I'm willing to give it a try because I do miss my walks.  Can't walk in the mornings right now first thing before work cause it is still dark.  But while it is cool, maybe I could take my 'lunch break' that I don't always take and take her for a quick walk.  It would be good for her - and very good for me.  I have been working out with my weights in the mornings, just trying to build my strength up in my upper and lower body.  I'm stubborn enough I don't want to be dependent upon anyone in my old age!

We did get rain yesterday and it was nice that the air cleared out some.  It was late in the day before my sinus headache went away.  Glad that it did, though.  It can really be annoying.  I refuse to let a headache get me down and find that if I keep myself busy I don't notice it as much - until it is pounding so bad to get my attention I can't ignore it... thank God that hasn't happened in a long time.  Hubby tells me all the percentage chances of rain through Tuesday.... like I want to know that.  But I listen.

I'm drawing a blank this morning on what to write and so I may as well get off here and start pulling my day together.  I quit work yesterday at 3:30 so that I could make potato soup - it just sounded good for dinner.  My boss left at 3:30 for an appointment so there wasn't a real reason for me to just sit there.  I wonder what emails I have this morning.

Hope that you have a blessed day - 

We are to get rain today....

 and it had better arrive too!  My sinus's are pounding this morning - started last night.  Coffee isn't helping so will take an aspirin or something when I come out of my room - that sometimes seems to help.  Once the rain comes, my sinus headache will go away.  Or another heavy cup of coffee.   My coffee this morning is much better.  LOL  I had hubby double it up - good thing with waking up with the headache.  Sometimes caffeine will take care of it too.  Not yet today - but it will help, I'm sure.   The sinus headache started last night and I awoke a couple times during the night with it hurting... which means between that and hubby flip-flopping on the bed because he couldn't get comfortable, well, I don't feel like I got much sleep.  In fact, I did go back to sleep in here for about 15 minutes.  That was what I had asked God for - just fifteen more minutes to shut my eyes and sleep.  I'm still tired, though.

I did have to work yesterday, although it was MLK day.  We don't get it off, but the day was extremely light and I didn't have much to do all day.  In fact, I worked on a baby hat and a baby blanket most of the day.  No, I did not review the sessions I need to do for timecards.... just wasn't into it.  I have a two hour meeting this morning and nothing on the calendar for this afternoon - will process through them then - unless something heavy comes through that needs to be done.  Hubby told me to text my boss and tell her I was taking the day off cause it was a holiday.  HA!  Why do that - nothing special here going on.  Plus it would cost me 8 hours of vacation time.  

I grilled up a bunch of chicken yesterday and put in the refrigerator for us to grab and eat whenever we get hungry.  I really like this smokeless grill that my sister gave me a couple years ago.  I don't use it often but I can do several pieces of chicken at once - and no grease popping or smoke going on.  AND I get the grill marks.   My neighbor, Ms. Amy, still isn't doing well, so I fixed her grilled chicken, mashed potatoes, and some steamed vegetables last night and took over to her.  Oh, and applesauce with cinnamon and sunflower seeds.  We use that a lot of times for a dessert.  Poor thing.  I am sure her children are calling to check on her, but with all out of state, there is nothing they can do.  She said she did get ahold of her doctor yesterday and they told her they have a room at the hospital to put patients who are having difficulty breathing but they didn't have a bed.  She is to call back today to see if they have one.  But I thought she was much better yesterday when I took over the food.  She was moving better and seemed to be talking better.  She was still just having some difficulty with breathing.  It is crucial, of course, but I thought she was doing better.  I started taking food over cause I know that when we don't feel good, we don't really feel like fixing anything to eat - too much effort.  And I was right.  The time I took chicken noodle soup over, she hadn't eaten all day!  I'm hoping that with taking her food over that she might eat a little of it and get some strength back.

It's either raining or the sprinklers just came on.  I think it's time for the sprinklers, but I hear Ms. Amy's wind chimes banging so wonder if it is wind/rain.   The sprinklers are just under my window and I thought I heard them pop up... but then there's the chiming of the wind chimes.  I think it's just the sprinklers..... it was, they just shut off.

Changed up our fast for this week.  I'm fasting 'social media'... and still some foods.  I do check the alerts on FB to see if there is something I want to see - i.e., photos of great grandchildren or if I'm tagged on something.  But if not, that's as far as I go.  I'm not doing the scroll on facebook nor on instagram.  It actually gave me more time to crochet last night.  Except I was texting with my big brother, my youngest son, and my little sister for awhile.  All at the same time.  I kept having to check the top of the text to make sure I was on the right conversation!  That doesn't happen very often!  Does that mean I was multi-tasking?

I hear my words with friends dinging this morning - which means my brother is already playing his part on the games.  Other than hubby, when he decides to play, my brother is the only one I play the game with.  I'm not in to 'how many people can I play games with'.  I'd rather have just a few to play than several.  I usually respond one time and then I'm done for the evening.  I would rather read or crochet than sit with the phone/ipad all evening playing or reading fb or instagram.  How can people do that all evening?  If I start, I can easily lose an hour or more.  Over nothing! 

I bought into 'audible'.  Why?  because I get tired of the tv and the shows hubby likes to watch.  This way I can listen to a book (with my headset) while he watches his show - and I can crochet as well.  I tried to listen to a book last night with no success at all.  Hubby kept interrupting me and asking me questions to which I had to respond.  I finally gave up.  He finally turned the TV off.  I saw he was scrolling facebook so I questioned him as I thought he had given up social media as well this week.  He said he wasn't responding to anything.  Then I explained how he could just look at the alerts to see if he NEEDED to look at it.  Oh.  He thought that if he just read things and didn't respond, that was giving up facebook.  He wanted earlier in the week to post on facebook that he would be off for a week or so.  I asked him why he wanted to do that.  He thought people would wonder where he was.  I told him it was ok for them to wonder - he doesn't need to tell people he is 'fasting' from facebook.  They won't even notice he isn't posting.   I don't know if he told anyone or not.  I think he just wants people to notice him.

I think we are like that with God, don't you?  We want Him to 'notice' us, but we (unfortunately) do not want Him to 'interfere' with our lives.  We want to do the things we want to do, and do them OUR way, and not His way.  Yet, when we get into a crisis, we go running back to Him.  And you know what, He is always there for us.  He's always waiting for us to turn our thoughts to Him and just seek Him.  I love my mornings with God cause I can talk with Him and curl up in His lap (I like to imagine that) when I'm hurting or tired and let Him hold me and love me.  I love being able to read His Word quietly and think about what I've read.  I love the devotionals I read that help me think of other things in a different way.  Today's devotional was about grace and forgiveness.  Imagine that - God will give us mercy, grace, and forgiveness - even when we don't deserve it - and remember it no more.  How many times has God rescued you from something?  How many times have you received favor when you didn't deserve it?  That's God.

Take some time this morning to just say 'thank you, God' for all that He has given you.  You'll feel better - try it.

Blessings!

Weak Coffee...

 I noticed my coffee seemed to be a bit weak this morning.  I use an instant type coffee most mornings when I am running low on Kcups - allowing hubby to use those.  This morning my coffee seemed to be a bit weak, but I still sipped it, although it was like drinking hot water.  I'm almost to the bottom of the cup when I see the reason.  I wonder if hubby forgot to stir the coffee.... yeah, there is a clump of coffee at the bottom of the cup.  And I don't have a spoon in here to stir it.  I'm almost done anyway so will wait, maybe add a bit more hot water, and then stir that coffee made pod and continue drinking my coffee.  I'm having trouble waking up again this morning so real coffee would have been nice, but oh well.

It's Monday morning, again!  It keeps coming around every week.  Not sure what my calendar looks like for today, but it shouldn't be too bad.  I know I have a two hour meeting tomorrow I have to sit in on and take minutes so today will be getting the information to set the agenda and then get it sent out.  I am off the hook for Wednesday's meeting.  My boss really loves me. :-)  She sent me an email last week that her two hour meeting that I usually sit in on and take minutes is being revised.  Changing out people who attend, changing format and agenda focus..... and I do not have to attend nor take minutes.  Bittersweet.  Her meetings are orderly and fairly easy to take minutes at, and I get to learn some things.  Oh well - I'm off the hook for Wednesday, then Thursday I have another meeting we have shortened to 2 hours from 4 hours because the big boss who runs it is off again this week in Wisconsin.

I'm concerned about my neighbor.  Ms. Amy and I were chatting the other day when I took her some fresh squeezed orange juice and she commented that she didn't feel well.  A couple days later I went over to check on her and she said she has been really feeling bad.... weak, dizzy.  I made chicken noodle soup yesterday and took a bowl over to her.  She told me that she went to the store the day before as she needed groceries, but she still didn't feel well.  Did I ever chew her out!  She has our telephone numbers and I told her that if she needed groceries she was to call us.  We'd either take her or go pick up what she needed.  As sick as she said she had been feeling, I'm surprised she even attempted it.  She is a small Hungarian accented woman.  Maybe 5 ft tall and tiny.  Ms. Amy said yesterday that she had coffee and orange juice for breakfast - and lemon and tea yesterday afternoon - then threw up.  I had to get after her and tell her not to drink coffee nor tea on her sickly empty tummy.  I know when I do that I get sick and I'm sure she, already not feeling well, would to.  She has no family here in town; all four children live out of state.  So I gave her the bowl of chicken noodle soup and asked her to try and get some of the broth down anyway - and drink her water!  Offered to take her to urgent care if she felt she needed to go.  She gave me the key to her house should she not come to the door at some point.  She is 86 years old and fragile.  I hope I never have to use it.  Praying for Ms. Amy this morning.

Hubby and I, after church, drove up to Anthem yesterday and just walked around the entire complex.  It is so sad to see that the majority of the stores are gone.  Maybe all is left are the big names - i.e., Anne Taylor, Guess, North Face, etc.  There were a couple smaller places I think, but it is sad all these little stores just couldn't make it.  Bath & Body was having a big sale so I did buy some things.... and hubby picked up a couple things to add to the bill.  He always cracks me up when he will make comments like 'it was a bit costly for US to make the trip'.  I just looked at him and said no, it was costly for me, I pay the bill.  Not being mean, but he does that.  He will pick up things for me to pay for then say it cost US.  It comes out of my account, not ours.  Yes, I know,  my money is his money and his is mine, blah blah blah.  I have to keep money separate or he would spend it all.  I prefer trying to save some for the future.  If there is money in the bank, then he can spend it for what he wants.  Oh don't get me going there !

Church went well yesterday and the message was posted to You Tube last night.  I know that because they sent me a copy of it in messages, and it was a you tube link.  I'm not eloquent by any means but I do want to listen to it to critique myself and see where I can improve in delivery.  We don't have any more up at this location, but have one next week at the one here in town (hubby speaking) and then I have one in February and one in March.  I need to start working on those.

Today also starts my new exercise program I want to do.  Hubby can sometimes really irritate me.  I know that's a surprise, huh?  I made a comment the other day that I was starting this new program on Monday and he goes 'I thought you were already exercising in the mornings'.  Like I have time to do the entire program in the morning.  I do it piecemeal throughout the day when I know he won't be coming in here and interrupting me.  He stands and watches or pretends he doesn't and then later he makes comments.  That's why I always quit.  But today I do want to get more focused on it.  

I keep reaching for my cup to drink the last of my coffee, only to see the blob at the side of it.  sometimes I wonder if that is how we treat God.  Think about it.  We feel the draw of the Holy Spirit, longing to be with us, and we start moving in the right direction, then we look back at our life and the sins we have committed, and think, no, I have too much garbage there in that blob.  I can't drink of the real life with Christ.   Or we think our 'glob' is too great and cannot be dissolved.  But you know what?  It can.  Let the fire of the Holy Spirit fill you and you will see that blob dissolve and disappear with the forgiveness of our Lord.  All you have to do is ask Him, and He will move that blob totally away from you.  How do I know this?  Because He did it for me.  And I know He will do it for You.  Trust Him.

Blessings!

She said Yes to the dress -

 and at the second stop!  It was a fun day yesterday getting to help look for wedding dresses for our granddaughter.  The first place we went to - which called itself a 'wedding warehouse' - only had two dresses that my granddaughter could try on.  Yes, she is a bit fluffy - she just had a baby, after all!  But we all felt the woman - who had this 'warehouse' in her home - was a little rude about the size part.  But, the two dresses were tried on - and both were vetoed.  As we left, we decided to go to another place that we knew would have more dresses - and my granddaughter found the one she liked. 

It was kind of funny, actually.  We called first to see if it was by appointment only or could we just come in and see what they had.  We could come and look, but to try on, there had to be an appointment - which was understandable.  We got there and started looking around when one of the associates came and said her appointment had cancelled, did we want to take it.  Of course we did!  Mattie was very nice and had us pick out four dresses that we wanted to have tried on.

The first couple ones were nice, but nope, they weren't it.  Then my granddaughter walked out in this one and wow - that was the one!  Both mom and I liked it, and so did my granddaughter.  Then the indecision started.  Should we go to another place and look at more?  Should we do this?  Is this too expensive? It was typical of our granddaughter and her indecision.  (she gets that from me, I'm afraid.  Always second guessing on what I should do.)  Mom and I try to tell knew that we really loved that dress and thought it was the one.  LOL  Her comment back?  I was wanting to hear what you were saying about it but you didn't seem to impressed.  We had to remind her that we are wearing masks that cover up 3/4 of our face - she couldn't see our expression and probably did not hear our comments when she walked out.  She finally decided to take the dress and we moved on with it.

I did have to chuckle a bit.  Know what the dress reminded me of?  Another granddaughter's wedding dress of a few years ago.  Not as elaborate as that one, but nearly the same style.  And that's ok.  My granddaughters have exquisite taste.  Why wouldn't they choose similar dresses?  I need to pull out the wedding book my granddaughter gave us and show it to this one.  I did have a couple photos on my phone so was able to show how similar the dresses are.  She will look beautiful on her special day, just as my first granddaughter did on hers.

And we only had to go to two stores.  LOL  A quick lunch afterwards at 3PM and I was heading back home.

This morning we drive up to Pioneer Village at which I will be delivering the message "God is up to something".  Yes, I did that one a few weeks ago at Desert Shadows, but this is another church so I can do the same one. :-)  It helps in getting these things written!  Now I need to work on a message for February as I am scheduled again at one of them.  We got a call the other day with the schedule for the next November - March season.  Already have them on the calendar.

I will probably get a nap in this afternoon.  Hubby was snoring loudly last night and before I could fall asleep - he was have sleep apnea issues  In fact, he did it twice within 10 minutes or so - I could count to 10 before he started breathing again.  I will remind him this morning he needs to make a note to tell his doctor he needs to do a sleep study and see how many times he does this.  He always complains - nearly every day - that he doesn't sleep well, but usually blames it on his sore shoulder.  It is more than likely the fact his body stops breathing several times during the night.  But last night it was obvious and I found myself listening - so that I didn't get much sleep last night.  

Need to get up and moving this morning as I have to 'dress up' for church.  Will miss our recorded church services, but can catch them later this afternoon.  

Take some time to either go to church in person - or listen on line.  You will be glad you did.

Blessings!

We get to look for a dress....

 but not 'JUST' a dress.... a WEDDING dress!  Our granddaughter was proposed to a few months back and she has scheduled an appointment today to go to a place to look at wedding dresses.  Just she, her mama, and me.   I'm happy that she included me, but due to my lack of fashion, I know it isn't for that reason!  We will be heading out later this morning, have lunch I assume, then head on over there.  I don't know how long we will be gone but I think that is the only place she has scheduled.  It's a shame that one has to 'schedule' to just look at these things now.  I can remember when we could just walk into a place and look around.  But then, how often does one go to a bridal shop to look at dresses.  Come to think of it, I never ever went to one until my daughter got married.  My first wedding dress (a size 5 mind you) was borrowed.  Fit perfectly but about 5 inches too long.  My second wedding dress was handmade by a former sister in law.  Yeah it was a size 10.  It sure don't take long after 3 children to make the body grow!

That is what is on my agenda for today.  And I feel I am already running behind schedule.  Why?  Because I didn't get up until 5AM when I awoke (hey - it's Saturday, I can sleep in a little!) so that put me an hour behind on my reading.... and then I fell asleep in my chair!  I did!  SOUND asleep.  It is really weird and I'm still trying to figure it out.  But I had started this dream while in the bed.... I had gone to a field to be alone to do my quiet time.  Later someone came onto the field and it was getting dark, so I decided I needed to go home.  I started home and then saw a man laying on the ground and he was shaking.  I started to walk by him but then stopped to ask him if he was ok.  He said he was. I had also observed him throwing what looked like a silver laptop out in the darkness.  We sat and talked for a few minutes - can't think what about, and then I decided I needed to keep going home.  Continuing my walk (and all this walking was in my old neighborhood) someone ran by me and said the storm is coming and it's about a block away.  Where I was it was calm.  I quickly thought about it and continued on my way. I walked by a school building, realizing somewhere I 'lost' my purse and my books and my laptop.  I only had my phone with me.  I got to the end of the building and peeked around to see if I could see the storm.  Nothing.  I looked behind me, and the roads were covered with water.  It was total darkness, and yet it was as if I was walking in light, I had no trouble seeing where I was going.   I decided I needed to call hubby and tell him that I was on my way home, thinking he would be wondering where I was if there was a storm going on.  But I ran into the school to use the restroom.  While in the restroom, which had one stool in the corner, a man comes in and sits across from me at a computer on a desk. (where did that come from?)  I hurriedly finished my business - and no toilet paper.  Go figure!  So I try to get my jeans up and was having difficulty and another man walks in.  I don't look at them but try to scoot out the door, trying to get my jeans pulled up and zipped up as fast as I could.  Outside I try to find my phone in my pocket when it starts buzzing.  I figure it is hubby and try to get the phone but it won't stop buzzing.  Then I realized it was the alarm on my fitbit that woke me up let me know it was 5AM this morning.

Now isn't that a stupid dream?  What in the world?  I haven't had a dream like that ever, I don't think.  So very strange.  I've sat here this morning trying to figure it out.  Oh - when I came in to my room to read this morning at 5AM, I fell back to sleep and the dream continued - from the part about where I was walking to the school, oh yeah -I remember now too that after the restroom I walked down a long hallway and there was an odd shaped door that was being opened.  There was a woman, who appeared to be a school principal, sitting at a desk on the left.  I asked her if the door went outside and she stood up and said yes.  I asked if I could go through it, and she said yes.  When I started out the door, that's when I woke up again here in my room.  So very strange.  And there was no storm outside when the door opened - it was bright and sunny.

What could this dream possibly mean?  Does it even have a meaning?   I could possibly make up my own meaning.  I sat here for a few minutes and asked God did it have a meaning...but none came to mind at that time.  Could it possibly mean that even though I was around a storm, it did not touch me.  Even though darkness surrounded me, I was walking in light where I could see clearly.  I don't understand all the things, but I like to think that when it is stormy around me (life, in general), it cannot touch me because I am His.  I have no fear of darkness, because I belong to Jesus.  I walk in the light.  Interesting, do you think?  And really an odd dream!

I'm thinking I will need a second cup of coffee this morning!  Looking forward to hanging out with 'the girls'.  With working at a desk all week, it is nice to get out on the weekend and do something different.

Yesterday was our 4th great-granddaughter's first birthday.  She lives in another city so we can't see her without a long drive.  My youngest son is heading up there today with his daughter for the weekend.  We ran by his place last night to hand off a small gift for her.  She will grow up without the privileges my other great- grandchildren have.  But, it is out of my hands.  I have to pray and trust God to provide all that she needs.  

My sister told me last night that a friend of a friend went and got the vaccine.... they were in their 30's and healthy.  He died the next day.   And that was from the first shot. I've also read of a doctor and a nurse in two different states have died after getting the vaccine.  When I hear things like that I am extra sure that I don't want to get it.  There are still too many unknowns.  You watch - as word gets out of more people dying after getting the vaccine, it will be put on the current president because he rushed it through without letting them do a deep study on the effects of all they they put in it.  In my gut I just feel I shouldn't get it.   My boss feels the same way and she's a nurse.  I am not afraid.  I'm trying God to take care of me.

I picked all the oranges I could reach yesterday from my neighbor's tree and made up two decanters of orange juice, giving one to my neighbor.  I told her I couldn't reach any more so it would probably be the last of the fresh orange juice.  She laughed.  Poor thing.  I think she is 85 now, and she said she has not been feeling well.  She is dizzy and just not feeling well.  I asked her about a doctor appointment and she said she didn't feel she could drive.  I told her that if she needs to go to the doctor we will take her.  She did try to call yesterday but there wasn't an answer so she is going to try and call on Monday.   I need to make up some chicken noodle soup later today and take over to her.  She is a widow and no family lives out here.  Two are in Florida (they both came for Christmas) and one lives in another state but I don't remember where.  She was here back in November I think.  

Tomorrow we go to the Pioneer Village RV Park church for services.  I'm going to use the message I gave last time at the other RV park.  That's the advantage of being at two RV parks - can use the same one.  And yes they tape it too so maybe I'll get a copy of that one.    Looks like I have full weekend on tap  -  and that's ok.  I would rather be kept busy than sit and do nothing.  Except crochet.  I can sit and crochet. :-)

Ok - I'm thinking I've rambled on enough today so will close this off.  So what is on your agenda for this weekend?  Will you be sitting and doing nothing?  Maybe starting to write that book you have mentioned a time or two of writing?  Working on things around the house?  What is your life going to be like this weekend - productive?

Whatever you do, do it as unto the Lord.

Blessings!