The weekend recap....

 Ah.... did you miss me that I did not post yesterday?  I did forewarn you that I was not going to take my computer, but I had really thought I'd jump online and put something out in the afternoon.  But, alas, I did not.  I found myself in my own bed right after lunch and there I stayed until after 2p.  Slept some, tossed and turned and coughed - a lot.  Yes, I am miserable with this cold and with hubby having one as well (I still say he gave it to me!) he and I are probably coughing right into each other's space.  Even with kleenex - you know how that works.  But let's back up to what I couldn't write about on Saturday morning.  Afterall, that started the weekend.

I am in this room, in bed asleep, with the door closed (so I didn't hear hubby coughing, in here so that we didn't keep each other awake coughing).   I am awakened with hearing a 'va!'.  I laid there for a few moments, listening, and I hear it again.  Hubby is calling my name.  I jump up and run to the bedroom and flip the light on.  Hubby is flat on the floor.  Dripping wet, too, I might add.  He had tried to get out of bed and had slid right on off the bed, and could not get up.  He thought he had laid there a half hour, perhaps, but I don't think it was that long as he said he only called my name 4-5 times.  His voice was hoarse so that doesn't help to hear him either.  Anyway, I had dead weight on my hands to try and get him up off the floor.  It took us a few minutes, but we finally got him up, and I handed him his walker - which he used all day.  

Now before you make your own conclusions, I have my own on what happened.  I had stopped at Walgreens and picked up meds for us to combat this cold.  Walgreens equivalent of Dayquil and Nightquil for one thing.  I also picked up Walgreen's brand of Sleepezz as hubby is always complaining he can't stay asleep.  Instead of taking the Nighquil equivalent as he was 'told' to.... and which I took to keep my coughing at bay so I could sleep, he decided to take the Sleepezz because he wanted to sleep.  Yeah - I don't know how much he took - probably a capful - but I feel it is what took all his strength away.  He isn't that strong anyway, but the drugs in at medication probably put the rest of his body asleep as well.  Needless to say, this was traumatic, for him and for me.  No, he is not going to a nursing home.  I think it was the medication he took that did that to him.

We did take the walker with us to Chandler and yes, he did use it.  Of course we went to the hotel and he didn't leave until Sunday.  Now that the medication has worn off, he is back to walking as before, which isn't good, but able to stand.  We left about 10a from the hotel - we didn't even eat breakfast there because they had a sign they cook your breakfast for $15.99.  I told hubby I'd rather get back in our area before stopping for breakfast so we ended up at Bobbi's.  I still wasn't hungry, but did eat their delicious pancakes.  So good.

Back to Saturday evening... After we got to the hotel - which probably should have been a sign we should have turned around and gone back home.... just kidding ....   I had requested a suite probably 2-4 weeks ago when I made the reservations.  It' usually only $25-30 more and you get so much more room and is well worth it.  Well, they have two, but both were already taken.  In other words, as I probed the situation; the people decided to stay a day longer therefore the suite was not available.  The clerk had housekeeping help him find me a room and really this room was just like a suite.  It was long, we had the bed, a sofa, chair, table, desk, etc.  We just like having the room and the added sofa, and it was about $50 cheaper than the suite so we took it.  By then I wasn't feeling that well and really didn't care; just give me a room!!

So we got upstairs and I got dressed for the party and headed out.  This dang cough!  I should have taken more medication for by the time I got there, I was coughing quite a bit (embarrassing!!) and my voice was hoarse.  My friend's house is smaller than ours but I love how she has it set up.  I brought a lot of my 'old' Avon jewelry that I don't wear anymore and some candles for 'auction'.  What we did was have a cup by each item that was numbered, and we each had 25 tickets and we could put a ticket in each cup of what we wanted.  I 'won' several nice pieces of jewelry.  Nothing 'real', of course, but fun.  Of the purses, I didn't win any, but there were coach and kate spade purses - which I don't care what the brand is anyway, but just so you know this wasn't just 'throwaways'.  In case you don't know the names, we are talking $$$ in some cases for price.  We had fresh veggies and fruit and other things to snack on.  We played another game similar to musical chairs only we passed around a package and each time the music stopped, another layer came off.  The one who took off the last layer got to keep the prize.  We played another game and then was just sitting around talking when I decided to take my leave.  I had done enough coughing I was ready to get out of there - and they were probably ready for me to leave. Praying no one caught my cold, which is what I think it is.

All in all, it was nice to dress up, nice to see my friends and meet new people, and I really wish I had felt better so that I could have enjoyed it more.  I had brought bread and peanut butter for hubby to fix a sandwich for dinner, but I did bring him back some pinwheels from the party which he quickly devoured, and I made sure he took the right nightquil before going to bed.  And I've discovered I have 'lost my retainer case with the retainers in it'.  I did not take it with me as I can't eat or drink anything other than water while the retainers are in.  I can't find them in things we took with us and I can't find them at home.  One thing left to check - I had taken a gift to my friend and will ask her to check the bag thoroughly to see if I had accidently dropped the case in the bag.  I put on the next week's retainers so I'm still wearing them, and I ordered a new case from Amazon last night - a pink one versus the black one I had - hopefully it will be easier to find!

And it's back to work today and I need to get up and go take my Dayquil equivalent and I've been taking an Allegra as well to help dry me up.  I will get over this - and will be feeling better soon.  And I've been sleeping well in here, but hubby is already asking when I'm coming back to our bed.  Maybe in another night or two..... According to my sleep summary on my phone, I slept all the way through the other night, and only woke once coughing last night.  Sure didn't want to get up this morning, though!

But - alas, I must get off here and get the work computer turned on and all I've done is recap the weekend.  I hope you haven't been bored......  I did remember my adopted daughter's birthday in Georgia.  Oh - that reminds me, my youngest son called and asked me to go to Georgia with him for our grandson's graduation from 'basic training'.  I'd have to take a week off work, but I know I could not leave hubby for that length of time.  Still, it was nice that he asked.  Right now he has no one to go with him and I really do not like him driving that far alone.  He checked with a couple friends but they can't go either.  I hope he finds someone.

So - I need to get off here and get to work.  I apologize my mind is not functioning yet this morning and I have nothing substantial to leave you with this morning.  But I will remind you,

Jesus loves you.  He loves you so much, He was willing to go to the cross for you.  He gave up His life, so that you can have yours.  That is Love, with a capital L. When was the last time you thanked Him for that?

Blessings!

PS - you aren't going to believe this - I got up from my chair, pulled the covers back up on the bed, decided to look 'one more time' for my retainer case - and there it was under the bed.  Seriously, I had felt with my foot, but had never 'looked' for it - today I have it.  Oh well.  Now I have a pretty pink one arriving today which I think I will switch to so that I can find it easier than this black case!  Mystery over!

It may be a long day....

 I've been awake since about 2a - the reason I may or may not share another time.  Not this morning.  I don't have much time to write this morning; I had decided I wasn't going to the Growth Track II at the church this morning so was taking my time, just sitting here with Jesus... but hubby said he would be ok staying home by himself and for me to go.  Still thinking about it, but I may as well go.  I'm not coughing as much as he is.  We both managed to 'doctor up' last night enough to go to dinner at the VFW and I think it was a success.  But as my son noticed as well, I think about 6-8 people helped themselves to soup without paying for it.  Hmmm - we need to have a sign on the wall for such a time as that, since we were not in our usual place.  But still, I think it all went over well and I'm glad that others brought in soup.  And I did enjoy the time with my son. :-)

Today may - or may not - be a busy day.  I have the session at the church at 9a - 11:30a this morning.... and then probably come home and try to nap a bit before heading to Chandler around 2p.  And even with that, not sure that I can go.  It will depend on some things.... at least hubby will be going with me (if I go)  so that I can keep an eye on him, but he will be in the room alone for at least 4 hours.  Surely he can take care of himself, right?   At least I have everything together to take down with me - I just need to make sure I can wear the dress that I chose - and grab all my make-up and stuff and jammies for the night.   

I had to get my own coffee this morning - gasp! - as hubby was asleep in his chair.  He didn't wake up until about 6:30a.  I am guessing he is sitting at his desk now, doing his quiet time.  I didn't get up until 5a although I was awake.  I really would like a nap, but it isn't happening.  I have an ear open for hubby.  And I am still needing a shower yet this morning.

I am actually at a loss for anything to write about this morning - what's up with that?  

My brother sent me a video this morning on he and his wife, son and family, were all at the pumpkin patch doing a hayride.  How I wish we could do things like that!  Of course the weather is more seasonal there, and it looked like they all had jackets on, even though light ones.  We need to live further north, I guess, but even then, well, I'll leave that there.  

I don't plan to take my computer with us to Chandler so there probably won't be a post tomorrow.  Or if I do, later in the day.  We will probably head back here around 10a - hopefully hubby will be up to going to church at 12p - but will see.  There is just something about getting back home where you can relax, ya know?

Nehemiah 8:10 (NKJV):  Then he said to them, "Go your way, eat the fat, drink the sweet, and send portions to those for whom nothing is prepared; for this day is holy to our Lord.  Do not sorry, for the joy of the Lord is your strength."

There have been so many times with I have repeated over and over "The joy of the Lord is my strength".  Sometimes, just finding my joy in Him is the only thing that gets me through each day.  I often do have to remind myself that my joy does NOT come from my husband, nor my children, nor my job.  My joy comes from the Lord alone.  In Him I can find joy.  Without Him, I cannot.

And with that - I'm off here and heading to the shower.  Got a lot on my mind this morning but don't want to share .... need my joy in the Lord this morning!

Praying that you find your joy in the Lord today.

Blessings!

A busy weekend ahead.... and I'm praying....

 Yep - we have a busy weekend.  I start out with work this morning, of course, but at 8a I have training with Morgan. She doesn't usually work on Fridays, but as she had been on vacation Monday-Tuesday, she is cramming sessions in to today as well.  Hubby ended up cancelling out on his yesterday - he had a sore throat and had been sniffling.  Yeah.... one of the things I'm praying about!  Why?  Well, keep reading.  Yesterday afternoon I 'noticed' the right side of my throat felt a little itchy sore.  Hmmm.  Drinking green tea, taking things to calm it down.  Decided I'd sleep in here last night because by evening hubby was coughing.  Everywhere.  Neither of us slept, although I thought I had doctored him up pretty well.  His coughing kept me awake and at 2:25a I was up pouring cough syrup down his throat.  I did sleep some as did he, but we are both tired this morning.  My throat is still itchy sore this morning, and I feel a respiratory thing going on, but thus far I'm not coughing.  I'll keep doping up on the drugs to keep the symptoms at bay.  Got too much going on!

Tonight is the Riders soup dinner and I'm looking forward to it!  I've also agreed to make crockpot chicken chili and have everything except the broth, which I will stop and pick up this morning on my way back from the gym.  I hear the grandson is making his loaded baked potato soup and am looking forward to having some of that!   Tomorrow morning we have what is called 'Growth Track II' at church.  This week the topic is on the Gospels and Acts.  I'm hoping we both feel like going.  Then home to finish packing and we are heading to Chandler.  My friend is having a 'Glam night with Cecilia' at her house and we women are to dress in fancy dresses and just go for a good time.  I've got candles, jewelry, and books that I'm donating for her party.  We will all get about 25 tickets and we will drop those tickets into cups of the things that we want.  Another woman is bringing jewelry as well, and another purses, etc.  It will be a lot of fun to see and meet these women.  She mentioned that she has told them all that I'm her mentor (say what?) and I've helped her find her way to Jesus.  That is very nice... I didn't do anything; Jesus did it all.  I just lived my life.  Just like we all are called to do.  I've told you 'our' story of the past.  Anyway, we will be staying overnight in Chandler.... unless I come down with what hubby has and I'm fighting it tooth and nail!  (where did that saying come from?)  If I'm sick, I can't go, but will need to run down to drop off my items - and save money on a hotel bill.  But, I've been looking forward to this 'Glam night' (wearing the dress that I wore to a grandson's wedding) for several weeks now and I really do not want to miss it - praying I don't get sick!

Wow - I ran that paragraph all together, didn't I!  I actually have things to do that are fun this weekend - and hubby is coughing and blowing his nose and I'm fighting a sore throat.  Appreciate prayers to not get sick so that I can attend all activities!  

I had a 'revelation' last night.  Well, it may not be called that... but when I went to bed in here, I got in on the left side of the bed.  When I finally got tired of hubby's coughing and got up to get the cough syrup, I worked my way clear across the bed to the right side to get up!  As I did it, I realized that I sleep on the right side of 'our' bed, so my body had to get to the right side so I could get up!  Just a chuckle this morning about 'habits die hard' - right?  Another one of those 'where did that saying come from'?   The plus side of hubby not feeling well?  I get to sleep in here, and I usually sleep very well for I don't have him tossing and turning and keeping me awake.  (when he turns, he bounces around)  Tonight I will close the door so maybe that will muffle the coughing.

Work yesterday was a bit quiet, as it has been lately.  One of my friends at work put me in a crying mode yesterday unintentionally.  Her boss sent me an email and said her EA (my friend) was on bereavement, would I please schedule a meeting for her.  No problem.  I got it scheduled, and noticed my friend was online.  So I sent her a Teams message and said I heard she was on bereavement, and that I was sorry - was it a close relative?  And she sent back a quick text - "yes, my husband" and I went into shock (cause I knew he was healthy) and I could believe my tears started falling for her and of course I came back with "I am so sorry!"  and then she text'd back and said "I hit send too soon, I meant to put my husband's SISTER".  So then she called me and we chatted - but whoo!  I have never met her husband, but the fact I thought this death was her husband, my heart broke for her.  Praising God it wasn't, but still....  that was my excitement for yesterday!  We are close work friends so I guess that is why it got to me.

Deuteronomy 13:4 (NKJV):  You shall walk after the Lord your God and fear Him, and keep His commandments and obey His voice; you shall serve Him and hold fast to Him.

That sounds like a demanding, harsh statement, doesn't it?  But it isn't.  If you go back and read before this, you will see that God is laying down the guidelines on following Him.  We are not to turn to idols.  We may scoff at that word nowadays - idol - but there are many things that can become our idol.  Celebrities, children (yes, children if you put them before God), drink, cigarettes, tv shows, Facebook, work, hobbies, habits - all these things can become an idol if we do not keep it in perspective and keep God first in our lives.

The Israelites kept falling away from God - the One who rescued them from Egypt.  And we all have our own little 'Egypt' in our lives.  Who do you keep putting before God?  That their wants are more important than anyone else's?  And by anyone else - I mean God.  Do we put our children before others?  They have become our idol.  Do we put food before other things?  It can even become our idol. I don't think I'm explaining it well, but I hope you get the drift.  (is that another saying? Get the drift?)  Where are all these sayings coming from?  LOL

And with that - I need to get up from this chair and get dressed as I will need to leave in about 45 minutes for the gym - then back to work.  

Remember, God is to be first in all things.  He is a jealous God and does not share His glory or His honor with anyone.  And... that is one reason why I go to Him each morning before I start my day.  I want to put Him first in all things.  And when I fail, I confess and ask forgiveness. I fear God - not afraid of Him, but fear Him enough to obey.  Does that make sense?  I think I've shared enough from John Bevere's books about fearing the Lord that you should know, right?

Have an amazing day - until tomorrow....

Blessings!

A new day, early morning

 My leg woke me up between 2-3a and I finally drug myself out of bed around 3:15a to come in here.  I went ahead and took an Excedrin, but the pain is not completely gone.  I sleep on the left side, and the left hip is where the pain starts (pressure point? but only since I was bitten by the '???' whatever it was) and then it goes down my left leg.  Usually my right leg joins the pain, but not today.  Still debating on calling Dr. Mark - and let him give me a referral.  When you can't 'see' anything, it is hard to diagnose without tests, and I don't want to do tests.  Besides, it's the end of the year nearly, and if I'm going to have to pay my still owing deductible, I may as well wait until 2027 and start the year with hitting that total, right?  I go see Dr. Mark in January - already have that appointment - so can discuss with him then.

So here I am and it is now around 5a.  I've done some of my reading, and have a few more things I want to do, but thought I'd do this first. Not that I have much of anything to tell.  Or share.

I had my training at 5p last night and Morgan and I got to talking about the 'Let Them Theory' book by Mel Robbins.  I had bought the book to read, but loaned it to Morgan when she went on the trip.  She isn't very far into it and wanted to share, but didn't want to spoil it for me since I hadn't read it yet.  She said it is a perfect book for someone who likes to be in control (of which she is one).  So I went on Thriftbooks and ordered another copy (cause she also thought hubby should read it!).  And I want to read it.  I told her she didn't have to rush through the book as I had ordered a copy, and she was excited because then we could talk about the book while I work out.  We never lack for conversation so I wonder where she plans for us to talk about the book! LOL  She is buying the book for her dad for Christmas; apparently he has control issues. Sound also like anyone you know?  I actually know a couple - including me!  

Ah - hubby just got up - which means he will be bringing my coffee in soon.  I'm thinking I will fast breakfast and lunch today and eat dinner.... as long as I have a plan in place to eat today, hubby won't be nagging (I hope).  He is so afraid I'll make myself sick.  But he just doesn't get it, sometimes fasting can make you feel better!  And it isn't to lose weight - but I want to pray about some things specifically, and sometimes prayer isn't enough, fasting is needed as well.

Daniel 9:3 - So I gave my attention to the Lord God, to seek Him by prayer and pleading, with fasting, sackcloth, and ashes.

Acts 14:23 - Paul and Barnabas appointed elders for them in each church and, with prayer and fasting, committed them to the Lord, in whom they had put their trust.

Mark 9:29 - So He said to them, "This kind can come out by nothing but prayer and fasting."

Prayer and Fasting doesn't guarantee you will get the answer you want.  Prayer or Fasting by itself doesn't always give you the answer you want.  But if prayer - and fasting - is what Jesus did, then I feel I am called to do it as well.  I really want to get back to fasting one day a week as I did when I was involved in the prayer ministry at a former church.  I truly miss those days.  I've allowed 'life' to get in the way of my priorities.  I need to start with even one meal, just get started.  When you have serious things to pray about, sometimes it calls for serious measures, right?  I love when God reveals things during those times. Perhaps that is why I miss it so much.  I don't mean just skip a meal.... we all skip meals for one reason or another.  But skip the meal and go grab your Bible and spend some time reading it, or go off by yourself and spend time in prayer.  God sees our hearts and knows our desires.  

James 4:8 (NKJV):  Draw near to God and He will draw near to you. 

Sometimes our best response is no response at all.... but just to sit quietly in His Presence and just rest.  Life can't get better than that.  I love my early mornings when He awakens me early (even with the leg pain) so that I can truly have quiet time with Him.  Hubby will be in soon with my coffee, and chat (sigh), and then I'm alone again.  But many times that disrupts my focus, if you know what I mean. Nothing bad about him coming in and chatting (how did you sleep? etc.), but it does distract my mind from my thoughts of Him.  God is always good.  

And with that, I think I'll jump off here and take advantage of the little extra time I have left.  Still need to do my prayers; I usually do those before writing in here, but thought I'd do this first to keep from being distracted. I had other things on my mind. :-)  

Have an amazing day today - smile; you will find it relaxes your face and changes your posture, your heart.  Be kind. You don't know what others are going through.  Be encouraging.  People need a word to bring joy to their heart.

Blessings!

My heart is heavy this morning....

 The family that was visiting left yesterday and went their own ways - my daughter and SIL back to NM and the grandson & family to Jerome to meet up with her family.  It was so nice to have them here, although I know the chaotic-ness of so many people in the house unnerved hubby some.  He was in the middle of it all with sitting in his recliner.  Although my daughter & SIL didn't leave until late morning with the SIL putting a new toilet seat (one that closes slowly) on hubby's toilet, the grandson and family didn't leave until after lunch and a nap.  They went to the children's museum in the morning and stopped for Greek food on the way back and brought enough back for us to taste.  The sandwich was good. I am not so sure about what was wrapped in grape leaves.  And french fries with feta cheese, cilantro, and I forget what else - tahini? on it.  The baklava - I love it!  I can't buy it cause I would eat it all!  The other I think we would have to acquire a taste for it.  Not that it was bad, it wasn't, but just something my taste buds weren't used to.  Nice to try something different though.  And I've lost my train of thought why I was going through all that - perhaps it was just to let you know that we can try something different. 

I worked off the dining room table yesterday as I had to start before my daughter & SIL left for home.  I think I scheduled one meeting, processed one invoice, and maybe answered one email that required an answer.  I did see where they have hired someone to replace Sue.  This woman is not only an RN, but has her PhD.  I pulled her resume and read it - and wow - she is smart!   The announcement has not been made yet but I happened to catch her name in a cancelled meeting so put two and two together.  I'm hoping she will be nice.  Once the announcement is made, I'll find out where she lives (because the majority of our company is remote and her last job was in Texas but still remote) and if in our state, will try to arrange a 'meet & greet' with her after she starts so that I can at least 'know' a little about her - and she me.  She has accomplished a lot... which does make me a bit nervous about my position. If you know what I mean.  Sue did all her slides and reports; I have never had to.  I'm hoping I still don't have to.  I'm back in 'my office' today and life is getting back to 'normal' - at least for a month.

Great granddaughter has a birthday next month and a party - so family is planning on coming back for the party, although limited on time. My daughter did tell me they were staying at the daughter's house next time and the grandson and wife will stay here.  And that's ok.  There is a saying in my family that my brother told me years ago, and I had shared it with my daughter 'way back when'.... and it got repeated that 'mom said'.....  and it goes like this.... involving people who visit and stay with you.... "when they stay past four days they start to smell like fish".... perhaps not the exact wording, but you get the drift.  That's why I always limit my stays in Indy with anyone.  Anyway... I heard that 'mom said....'  and they left yesterday morning.  When I heard it, I will admit it stabbed.  I love having my children around.  Yes, I can't entertain them, and I don't think they expect me to.  They can stay as long as they want to.  I know that hubby gets anxious when there is nothing going on, if you know what I mean.  But, I had thought my daughter & SIL left because they had things to get done at home and also they have cats to care for.  I didn't think anything of it - until I heard the comment had been made. It made me feel like they felt they had to leave because it had been 3-4 days.  So I wrote an email to her as they were enroute home and expressed my hurt. She came back with the reasons that I had originally thought.  But it still hurt, even if said in fun.  I never want any one to feel they are not welcome to stay as long as they want.  

And... since I'm telling on myself.... hubby and I had 'words' last night before he left to meet with his friend.  Harsh words, in fact.  Won't go into them, but it was probably me stirring the pot.  We both apologized later, but we have not yet 'gone there' to discuss.  While he was gone, I washed the sheets and remade the bed in here, and did my laundry.  Watched two movies, and I just didn't want to do anything.  Curled up on the couch and crochet'd as the movies played.  Hubby came home and sat down... and fell asleep.  When the 2nd movie was over, I woke him and we went to bed.  I'm sure he will approach our discussion some time today, and I'd just as soon not discuss it.  I was not in a good place last night, and the heaviness of everything is still upon me.  I've lost my joy.  Has anyone found it?

Looked on prime a little bit this morning before getting on here... shouldn't have!  Found some Christmas ideas and bought a couple things. Yes, I'm already buying for Christmas, and they were on 'prime sale', so why not? Right?  I need to write out the names and start writing down what I've bought and wrap them.  My closet looks like a cluttered mess if anyone looks at it - but I have boxes hidden behind clothes and on the shelves from things I've already gotten for gifts.  I need to pull everything out and start sorting them out.  The daughter and family and us are still trying to sort out Christmas timing. I don't care when they come, I just need to know when so that I'll be prepared.  We don't need anything.  Our grandson said they may come new year's to celebrate Christmas.  It would be nice to have family but I also understand when living that far away.  Shoot - sometimes it is hard enough to get family together that live here!  Right?  LOL  

I'm in a weird mood this morning and I hope I 'knock it off' soon.  I woke with my left leg hurting very badly this morning.  Bad enough I ended up taking an excedrin about an hour after I got up.  The pain has finally started going away.  Pain always makes us grumpy, right?  I just feel like I have the weight of the world pressing down right now.... got to throw it off.  And of course this scripture comes to me ...

Proverbs 3:5-6   Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not into your own understanding.  In all your ways acknowledge Him and He will make your paths straight.

That comes along with 'Let go and Let God' statements.   So - do I follow my own way - or do I trust God to lead me where I am to go, what I am to do, how I'm supposed to think and behave?  I guess that is really not a question... but only to myself.... will I let Him lead, and I follow....   see, I told you I was a mess!  And, it's nearly time to start work and I do need a shower this morning.  Perhaps tomorrow I will have my head 'on straight'.  Maybe I should just throw this post in 'draft' format and start over.  But then, here you see the real side of me.... I struggle just like you do.  I go through difficult times.  I hurt just like you do.  

Words do not define who you are.  Actions do.  So what am I going to do today?  What are you going to do today to make the world a better place?  I wonder if I bake cookies if that would help. LOL  

Have an amazing day!  I'll get this mood shaken off soon - wash it off in the shower, right?!

Blessings!

The last day has arrived....

 Today those visiting will be heading in other directions. One for a trip up north later this afternoon, and one that will be heading out this morning.  The house will probably become very quiet after that. LOL Just kidding.  The TV is louder than the family have been!  I have enjoyed their visit and I am grateful I was able to take off work and have this time to spend with them without running to the work computer. But today, alas, that comes to a halt.  I have the work computer out here on the table with me, along with my portable monitor so that come 7a I will be back to work.  My daughter hopes to be on the road by mid-morning, but there is 'one more thing' the SIL wants to do for hubby before they head out. He has been so busy (the SIL, not hubby), that he hasn't gotten to it yet.  Hubby will be happy.

The SIL did so much more work than I had on 'the list'.  In fact, he found an 'old' list that I had forgotten about - so he did those things too.  Gutters are clean. He took out the plants I had asked him to in the courtyard.  He got the grill brought up to the front courtyard from the back patio (and I have hopes that I will finally use it!). He fixed a leaky faucet that I really had not noticed was leaking (outside).  He trimmed back the big bush and the lemon tree in the front yard.  Yes, he kept himself busy doing things here.  Grateful for all the things he accomplished - and more.  

Yesterday afternoon my oldest son came to visit his sister.  Unbeknown to either of us, my daughter had crocheted him a cotton blanket to use in the hospital.  Perfect size.  She told me that when she started it, she didn't know who God would tell her to give it to. As she crochet'd, she felt God telling her it was for her brother, and she prayed over it as she crochet'd.  She even used a pattern that (I guess) she learned from her grandmother years ago.  I can't figure out the pattern, but she does it with ease, but it is very time consuming - but looks beautiful. I think he was touched by her gift, as I was.  Wish I had her talent to do a pattern like that.  I told her she needed to move back here so that she could work with me on learning it.  She DID teach me the granny stitch, which I use for nearly all the baby blankets I make to donate.

When it was time for dinner, we decided to go to Denny's and we all pay for our own.  The grandson and family were with friends, but the granddaughter and family joined us.  Even my oldest son chose to go with us and it was so nice.  Thank you, again, son, for picking up the tab!  Blessings to you for your generosity!  Wish our DILove could have joined us, but she had work to finish up.  After dinner, my son headed home, as we did, and the daughter went to the granddaughters.  Seems the SIL had one last thing he wanted to get completed there - and he took care of it.

Which was a good thing; the youngest son was able to get over and see his sister before they head out today.  I'm grateful they all made the time available to see each other.  As we all age, and have our own medical maladies, one never knows when a visit may be the last one they have.   So I tell you, you who are reading this, make every effort to visit your loved ones, forgive the hard ones, be free from the past. Don't let your possible 'last visit' be one of regret later.  

So, yes, I am back to work today and skimming emails, it doesn't look like it will be a busy day. Grateful. I can see visit with my grandson and family.  I may just stay here at the dining room table all day so I can be 'part of the family' while they are still here.  It would save me running in and out of the bedroom (work space) to visit!  More chairs in here anyway.  Plus it gives the bed for the little one to nap on.  She is such a cutie!

I'm reading the book Prayer - Finding the Heart's True Home by Richard J. Foster, and I am finding it interesting.  Chapter 4, which I finished this morning, is about shedding tears in prayer.  I have always been a 'cry-er', but over the years as well, I've fought with holding the tears in. They come at different times, over different things. It may be a song; it may be a message; it well, it could be anything and sometimes the tears will just flow down.  And yes, I have cried during my prayer time (especially when I am praying over my children and grandchildren!)  I can't find right now in that chapter what I wanted to share, but I want to say, it is 'ok' to shed tears.  It's ok to tenderize your heart before our Heavenly Father and cry out (literally!) to Him.  He wants us to!

I remember one time at a former church I was standing at the back of the church watching what was happening up front; where people were going up to be prayed over.  I had tears falling down my face and I could not stop them - and I didn't understand why at that moment.  So I asked God, "why am I crying? These people are going forward for healing prayers, for salvation prayers."  And I heard God tell me, "You asked that I break your heart for those things that break Mine."  From that moment on, I no longer 'hide' my tears, but welcome them, for I can see God's hand in all these situations. And because I also find myself at times with 'dry eyes' in situations, I've begun to ask Him again to 'break my heart for what breaks Yours'.  Tears are not a bad thing.  It cleanses the soul.  Try it.

Uh oh - I've let my computer sit out for the past few days and have not plugged it in.  It just went into 'saver mode' and is in the red so I best probably be wrapping this up and then take it to plug it in.  Need to get busy with my work mode anyway!

Have a blessed day and look after others; they may refuse your help, but be watchful for what you can do for them.  Sometimes it only takes a word to let them know you SEE them.  

Blessings!

It was a fun day!

 I did go to the zoo with my daughter and her family.  It was very windy, which we were grateful for, because it kept the sun from burning us up!  It wasn't too hot, though, and we walked. And walked. And walked.  LOL  It was good for me.  We ate at Dillon's around one, I think, and their turkey club sandwich and french fries I shared with my daughter was more than enough to fill me up for lunch.  I so loved hanging out with family.  Was I tired after?  Yes I was, I will admit.  My legs were stiff and sore last night; this morning not so bad.  I put the leg cramp foam on my legs before bed last night - although I wasn't having cramps - but wanted to keep them away. And it did.  I enjoyed the day with all of them and got to see the majority of the zoo.  We were there for perhaps five hours; I'm not sure.  But we still didn't see everything.  This place is huge.  The SIL and daughter got the rideables - which are electric 'animals' which they can ride instead of walking - and it helped immensely with the great grands for they got to ride with them.  They kept offering to let me have one, but I was determined I would walk - and I did. 

I actually forgot it was Sunday... but remembered when hubby found NCIS after I got home. LOL  It's our usual Sunday 'thing', remember?  Daughter and SIL were at the granddaughter's with everyone else, and I could have gone, but I did need to come home.  Of course I got quizzed about the day, but it was ok.  I had a good day and hopefully made lots of memories with family.  My grandson and granddaughter kept telling me how glad they were that I came.  That meant a lot.  I never want anyone to feel like I'm a burden or that I need to be entertained; I was included and that is what is important to me. It was a good day.

Today is Monday and I have taken today off work too.  Last full day family will be in town as tomorrow morning they will head out.  My daughter will head back to NM and the grandson and his family are heading to Jerome.  I will be going back to work. And hubby will do whatever hubby does.  But today, not much is planned.  As my granddaughter teaches school, she will have students today and will not be able to hang out.  But my grandson will be coming over with his family probably around 8a.  Once he gets here, I've already told them we can go out for breakfast.  Just thinking about a place about a mile down the road; it shouldn't be that busy.  They have awesome pancakes.  Guess what I'm going to get!

Which reminds me; so that hubby didn't feel 'left out' - and it cracks me up, it really does - he always treats himself.  Before we even left for the zoo yesterday, hubby took himself to this cafe to buy himself breakfast and eat by himself.  Now mind you, he throws a fit when I don't sit down at the table and eat with him.... 'cause he always has to eat alone'... yet, he can go to a restaurant by himself and eat a meal. Whatever works, I guess, right?

The daughter and grandson (and family) will be coming back here for the day - I'm going to help the grandson make some salsa for him to take with him, and he wants to bake cookies.  I imagine it will be oatmeal raisin.  Glad I didn't get any baked before he got here!  He's wanting to bake cookies with me. :-)  Maybe I can get the others to play games or something to keep busy today. You know with having people here disrupts hubby's day, but if they are including him, he's ok with it.  Usually I'm in the back room working.  It feels good not to have to.  Is this what retirement could feel like?   I actually made a comment last night that 'I could get used to retirement'.... hubby said not a word.  I wish he cared more about me than about his welfare.  Did I really say that out loud?

Today is my daughter's 25th Bone Marrow Transplant birthday.  I've tried to repost a memory of something I wrote years ago, but don't know if it got reposted. Maybe I need to ask my son to check my facebook settings. He had made a comment around my birthday that posting to me was difficult.  I remember the last two years my birthday posts have come through messenger rather than facebook. I haven't changed any settings; I try to stay off facebook as I lose too much time once I start scrolling. You know what I am talking about!

Luke 8:40 (NASB):  And as Jesus was returning, the people welcomed Him, for they all had been waiting for Him.

I was looking for a scripture to share this morning and came across this one in Luke 8.  Jesus had been somewhere, preaching and healing, and when He returned, people were waiting for Him.   As I pause and think about that scripture, I wonder how many of us are waiting for Jesus to return?  Would we welcome Him?  We know that Jesus is everywhere; the bible says so.  He is in our daily lives in everything we do, everywhere we go.  He sees everything we do, everything we say.  You could say He could hold us accountable, right?  Perhaps that is a scary thought for some!  

If Jesus were to come back today, would we be found waiting for Him?  Are we ready for His return? I pray we all are.  How many of us pause each morning in our prayers and ask God to search our hearts and show us what we need to confess - and then confess it?  Or do we just brush it off and give an excuse on why we spoke that word, or acted out that way?  Oh that we would confess the very things that Jesus shows us - our own heart and mind convicts us.  Glory to the King of Kings, the great Forgiver, the One who loves us more than anything else.  I pray I am always found waiting on Jesus, ready to be with Him in eternity.

Blessings!

I made a decision... I am going.

 You should see how the courtyard is coming along!  My SIL has been so busy with trimming and pulling up the plants I requested, working on the AC filter (grandson ordered a custom made filter for us!) and just general work that needs to be done - even that I didn't know needed some work!  I love that he cares enough about us that he will spend his 'vacation' time working on our house, but I also feel bad that he spends his time working on our house.  I think he enjoys the outdoors more than indoors - and I don't blame him. It was windy and warm yesterday, but overall, not too bad in the morning.  In fact, while he was working on the AC, us girls went outside and sat in the courtyard for awhile.

Breakfast went well, I think.  I hope no one left hungry! I kept a few pieces of eggs ole for hubby, but sent the rest home with the granddaughter. She can heat up for breakfast for the crew staying with her today.  My daughter and hubby will get either waffles or cereal, cause I don't think I'm cooking!  LOL  I went shopping with the girls (only Target) for a short while yesterday, and when we came back in the door, hubby was snapping at the grandson and grandson in law.  Guess there was some kind of discussion and since I wasn't here, I'm not going to comment on it.  Things were testy after that with the 'family' quickly getting things together and getting out of here.  I/we were invited to go with them to Chuckie Cheese, but hubby just refuses to go (too noisy) and it is easier for me to stay home.

But that is where things changed last night.  The easier for me to stay home part.  Please tell me if I was wrong to do this.  I had a conversation with my big brother last night. I was really feeling left out and down (no one's fault, just a feeling cause I wanted to be with my family) and I text'd my big brother. And then I tried to delete the text (you know, you write it out and then tell yourself, naw, don't do that), and it wouldn't let me delete it So I told him to ignore it.  And he came back and said 'ignored'... and then shared how he and his wife don't always do things together.  I tell you what, I feel they have the most perfect marriage that I've ever been around. Now mind you, I haven't been with them in all situations, but the few times I've been with them - they show each other respect, and love, and don't take each other for granted. I tell them they are my goal in marriage.  Well, moving on with that... 

Anyway, I shared with hubby that I really did want to go to the zoo with the kids today......... but know that hubby won't/can't go. We went a few months back with my youngest son and some of his family - and we only got through the aquariums as hubby was tired and couldn't walk any farther.  I haven't been through this zoo since all three kids lived at home - that's how long its' been.  Well, I left it with the kids WE wouldn't be going, but have a good time.  But I really wanted to go and hang out with them.  Hubby kept saying we couldn't miss church.  Well, my brother encouraged me to tell hubby I was going and go to the zoo.  If he doesn't want to go - that's fine. But because of his inabilities (within reason, of course), it shouldn't limit me living life.  So I told hubby I was going.  The first words out of his mouth was "WHY?"

Because I want to?  He finally realized that I was really going to leave him here at home alone.  Not to build myself up, but I don't go to a lot of things because he can't - or he doesn't want to go.  I try to 'respect' his wishes..... and not leave him home alone.  He isn't an invalid.  But when I do that, inside I die just a little bit more, for I know that I am missing out on living life.  So then his tune changed to "I wish I could go, but I don't want to slow you down."  So I told my brother I was going to go - and to prove I did and was having fun, I am to send him photos.  My big brother has always been my biggest cheerleader in encouraging me to do things.  I've shared before his challenges to me.  I feel I have lost so much of my life; there is so much I could and want to be doing, but hubby has always held me back because he feels when I'm involved and he isn't, then he is slighted.  Insecurity is a terrible thing, people!  Anyway - I am going to the zoo today with the family!   My daughter and grandson and their families are going to church at 8:30a and will pick me up on their way to the granddaughter's after church.  Our service at 10:30a is televised so hubby said he would watch it then.  I think he is afraid to drive for I usually have to park aways down the row by the third service, and usually drop him off at the door - he can't walk that far for fear of falling.  Enough of all that.  So am I wrong to go to the zoo with family and not stay home with hubby and do our usual routine of quiet time, church, and then TV all afternoon?

And then today, I get a message from Messenger X - which is John Bevere's website.  I get a MX daily with good things to think about.  Today's is:  You can't control what happens - but you can control how you respond.  

Next weekend we will be 'getting away'.  I really would like to go alone, but always feel guilty for even if stays in the hotel room, hubby likes a change of scenery too.  But I have next Saturday night with my friend.  More on that later in the week.

And with that, I need to get off here and finish up my quiet time. I hear my daughter up so need to figure out breakfast for them.  Coffee too, of course.  Hubby is doing his quiet time.  I need to finish up. So I'm off here. Sorry to bore you today.  Will share about the zoo tomorrow.  One more day off work. Tomorrow is my daughter's 25th BMT birthday.  It doesn't look like we can meet my son for lunch for which it makes me sad.  EVERY one would want to go too.  I don't even think I can get my daughter by herself as we do have the granddaughter-in-law here, and it would be rude to take off and leave her here alone. The guys would be busy working on the house and hubby knows enough to leave them alone.

Have an amazing Sunday.  I apologize in advance, for my ramblings of hubby issues. I share way too much. Just remember - it is one-sided.  My thoughts, my words, my interpretation.  He really isn't a bad guy... just ..................   sigh.

Blessings!

It was a good day~

Sigh. I just erased all that I had written in here. Why? Because I can probably say all that I said in just a few sentences - or a paragraph. Let's see if I can.   Yesterday I relaxed (while hubby was gone) and did my quiet time, then straightened up the house, put things away, made a grocery list, did my laundry, then around 11a I took off and washed my car, dropped things off at Good will, went to grocery store, and then came home.  As I had not told hubby I was taking it off, until I left him a note where I would be while out, he had a comment to make about me just taking the day off.  As in 'who do you think you are that you can just take a day off just like that?'  I ignored him and informed that I did request permission and received it.  After watching me put the groceries away, he finally came in here and sat down.  

Met up with my youngest son later in the day for a little while, he had bought us brisket sandwiches from Buc-cees.  Never had them before, but they sure were good!  I think even my oldest son would like them! About $13 each, but 3 different kinds of meat on them.  We didn't eat all the sandwich, but part of it just to get a taste.  I would get it again.

Daughter and family got in between 8:30 and 9p I think. There was a bad accident in Flagstaff and luckily they were able to be directed to a detour rather than just sit and wait it out.  Unfortunately, it took an additional hour for them to get here. Or more.  I had fixed soup for them to have when they arrived so they wouldn't have to stop for a meal. But that late, they didn't eat much.  We ended up eating before they got here as we were hungry!  Our granddaughter and her family were here too.  I thought that way all of us could see everyone.... the grandson went with his sister for the night and my daughter stayed here.  

I awoke early this morning with pain in my legs again.  Not like before, but this pain is all over my legs and hurts.  Haven't had that in a long, long time.  If it persists, will need to call Dr. Mark's office and see what to do.  When you can't 'see' what is causing the pain, it is hard to figure out what it is.  I am afraid it will create testing.... and that testing may not be pleasant.

Everyone is still in bed - even hubby - and it's 5:30a. I love my early mornings, but I would have tried to sleep too if my legs didn't hurt so bad.  I imagine they will all start to get up soon.  It was decided that breakfast will be here this morning. Granddaughter bringing eggs and bacon; I'm going to whip up some eggs ole shortly and get it ready for the oven.  At least we aren't eating until about 9-ish so there is no rushing about.  I had bought bagels and cereal.  Looks like we are having a meal instead. And that's ok.  I've already told the daughter and granddaughter that Saturday and Sunday they need to spend time together; we don't have to be included.  Monday the granddaughter has to teach school so Monday will be a bit different.  My oldest son asked for my daughter and I to meet him for lunch - but we also have others here that will want to go, so I don't know how we can get that to happen.  Our loss!  My daughter wants to, but she even is concerned about leaving the others here while we go out to eat.  It probably won't happen.  

Hubby only got after me a couple times last night.  He just doesn't like for me to 'correct' him when things are not important....  but don't get involved with my children or grandchildren or the snarling will start!  Right?  LOL  We both survived.  He was tired, and he is a control freak. Me, I just don't care if a piece of paper is left on the table; what does it matter?  Sigh.  If he brings it up, he and I WILL have a discussion about it... but I'm not going to 'start something' by bringing it up myself. It isn't worth it.

Romans 15:7 (NLT):  Therefore, accept each other just as Christ has accepted you so that God will be given glory.

I think that could be an 'ouch', don't you?   How often do we accept people?  Just as they are?  I certainly don't always want to accept people 'just as they are', and yet, I want Jesus to accept ME just as I am.  Can I play both sides of the fiddle?  I think not.  Each of us are made in Christ's image.  Each of us are loved by Him.  Jesus died for even the most controlling person, the most irritable person, the most annoying person, .... and he died for the most loving person, the most caring person, the most... and we should accept each other in Christ.  Sometimes that is hard, but when we remind ourselves that Jesus died for them too, it should make a difference.

And with that, I'm off here.  Hubby just got up, and I may still have some time of quiet before the others get up. Want to get some reading completed.  

Have an amazing Saturday.  

Blessings!

 

And here I am....

 Although I'm not really 'late' in typing this, I'm running around this morning trying to get things done.  My daughter and some of her family will be here some time tonight, and I have this room to pick up and other things I want to get done. Now whether I will really get it all done - who knows! But, I decided yesterday afternoon to go ahead and take today off work to get it done.  Didn't want something given to me to do and then I couldn't get done what I want to.  Although, I have plenty of time, hours really, to get anything done, but I just didn't want to work today. So I took it off and here I am.   No, I didn't tell hubby I was taking it off.  He won't know until he gets home from bible study and visiting Chuck - and then he is going to do something - probably get lunch somewhere) to use up the next hour or so before going to get his shot at 1p at the cancer center. He didn't want to drive home and then turn around and go right back to the same area.  And I get that.  

Why didn't I tell him?  Same reason I have not told him for the past 44 years when I wanted a day to myself to get things done that I wanted to do.  Or to just be 'alone'.  I don't want my time taken away from me, I don't want supervised, I want .... well, I think you get the picture.  When he was working, many years ago, and I would take a day off, I either would leave at my usual time and wait until he left before I came back home, or I would just tell him I was taking the day off.  When he would ask 'why didn't you tell me?' - I always gave the same reason.  Because you would take the day off to be with me.  I know, I know, most women would love her husband to want to spend time with her.  But they don't have mine.  We are together nearly 24x7 - usually except for Friday mornings and Tuesday nights.  I can't breathe without him asking if I'm ok.  No, I'm not bashing him; just stating facts on why I choose not to tell him when I take a day off work.  Can you just imagine what it would be like if I ever got to retire?  At least I have the computer, right? And he knows where I'm at so he doesn't worry about being alone. Sigh.  He is terrified of being alone.  Seriously.

I have thoughts of lots of things I want to get done.... and I'm sure I won't get the majority of it completed, but my first task is this bedroom so that my daughter and SIL can have it while they are here.  I'm not going to remove my work computer until as I don't need to.  Yeah, I took Monday off too. I think hubby knows that, but am not sure.  A four-day weekend for me and I have high hopes.... just saying.

Need to do a run to Sam's Club some time today, but want to get things done here as much as I can before hubby gets home.  Doing my laundry now, not that it was needed to be done, but trying to keep up on it. That's another story for another time. 

Got my mammogram and DEXA scan done yesterday. I got there about 2:15 (appt @ 2:40p) and signed in. Completed the paperwork they gave me and I was called right on back.  Got the DEXA scan, then the mammogram and was out the door at 2:35p.  Sat out in the parking lot for a bit and talked with my sister.  I had told hubby I probably wouldn't be back until about 3:30p so I wasn't rushing to get back home. After all, I had also signed off for the day for work so there was that! In talking with my sister, she shared a 'treat' she does every fall about this time.  Of course I had to try it.  Off I went to Walgreens - and I can't believe I spent that much on candy and nuts.  Ok, it wasn't that much by some people's standards, but I just don't buy candy as a rule.  But I broke that rule yesterday.  What to make with what I got?

Take a bag of candy corn, and a jar of Planters salted nuts, and mix together.  Sweet and Salty.  I had to try it. You know I love my sweet and salty with my description of how I like to eat vanilla ice cream with saltine crackers.  So I dumped the candy corn and peanuts in a bowl - and it is good!  Different, even.  I ate too much of it last night and will stay out of it now.  I wanted to try it, I did, and now I'm ok.  But it was fun to try. And it is the season for candy corn!

Romans 5:7 (NIV):  Accept one another, then, just as Christ accepted you, in order to bring praise to God.

Some of us just may read that verse and ignore it, or we may say 'ouch', right?  Accept one another.  Really?  But, But, But....  No buts, we are to accept one another as they are, because the mess that we are, Christ has accepted us.  And why?  To bring praise to God.  That is what we are on earth to do.  Worship and praise the Lord and Savior, our God and King, the Almighty, Gracious and Forgiving One. If God can forgive me my sins, who am I to withhold forgiveness and acceptance of others?  It may be hard, but how hard was it for Him to forgive me?  Hmmm ....

I need to run a gift over to a DIL today. Her birthday isn't until the 10th, but they plan to be gone on one of their trips; probably will be a beach stop somewhere.  I think they are leaving the 6th, depending on what is going on with other issues.  She is giving herself a 50th birthday party tonight, but with us expecting company, I don't plan to attend. I don't usually get invited to b-day parties when not at a house, and I do usually attend when at the home.  I don't know but just a couple of her friends and of course her family.  I have things to do here at home.  So, I will get something and wrap it up and drop it off.  As she and my daughter are estranged, to put it nicely, I'm sure there will be a snarky comment or two made about my skipping to be here for my daughter.  But, it IS my daughter... just saying.

I need to get moving and get things done while hubby is gone so need to shut up.  Hope that you have an amazing day - I will be taking my personal computer out of this room so that I can write in the morning - hopefully!  You know my life will be all over the place until I'm back to work on Tuesday! 

Breathe. Take a moment and just breathe.  God is so good, and so faithful.  As I was praying this morning, I was reminded of many answered prayers, as well as unanswered ones.  So I paused to thank God for the unanswered prayers as well as the answered ones.  Why the unanswered prayers?  Because I don't always ask for things the way I should... I want my own way. I want my own revenge. I want my own thoughts made known.  And sometimes God just says 'NO', or He may just say "wait and see what I do with this."  Whatever it is, I trust HIM for all outcomes.  Even when I don't get my way.

Shalom Shaloom

Blessings!

Did I really turn it on?

 In the middle of the night?  Did I?  Or did hubby turn it on when he turned down the bed and I forgot to turn it off?  What am I talking about?  A sleep disrupter!! I have a touch lamp on my nightstand.  Hubby sometimes turns it on when he turns down the bed, but I don't remember if it was on or not when we went to bed. Or, did I turn it on?  I don't know - but at 2:15a this morning, I was awakened by a light shining through my eyelids.  I had been in a deep sleep until that moment.  Of course I reached out and touched it off, but geez, it disrupted my sleep and I struggled to get back into a deep sleep after that.  So, do I let that make me be grumpy this morning - or just tired?  Hmmmm  It may be a very long day today cause I didn't rest after that.

I have two tests scheduled for this afternoon that I will be gone for a couple hours. At least it is close by.  Have my bone density which will show the density of my bones.  Duh.  What aggravates me is that two years ago it showed my bone density as going down - after being on Fosamax for two years.  I am hoping it is at least the same or better this time since I have been doing a lot of strength training, but I still refuse to take the Fosamax.  I will take my chances on falling and breaking a hip bone.  What did the pioneers do, right?  They toughed it out!  If I fall and break a hip - God will either take care of me, or take me home - I'm in His hands, not in man's medicine.  You know how they always say an older person breaks a hip and then ends up dying.  Well, my mama had a broken ankle!  Enough said.  I'll trust God for when a bone breaks and when I die.  Not leaving it up to man! So there!  (see what happens when I don't get a good night's sleep?  I get grumpy!) LOL

The other test is the yearly mammogram.  I still remember when Dr. Hollis sent me to one place and they squeezed so hard it brought tears to my eyes - and when I told him about it, he refused to send me there any more.  Or any of his patients. He said there is no reason to be squeezed so hard.  Never did go back there.  Of course now I have to go to a specified place because of my insurance, but that's ok.  I've been there before and they are good.  At least both tests are at the same place and I can get both done today and be done with them. Bone Density for two years, mammogram for one.

I did nothing last night.  Hubby left the TV off so I could read, but, didn't even do that.  I got one of my ocular migraines and it was one of the worst ones I've had and it lasted longer.  I could see my phone, but when I tried to read, several words were blacked out.  But, they say no cure, and it's just something that happens.  I don't agree.  I've had a headache for two days between my eyes; I think I may need to ask for a test - will see if I get any more like that.  I go back to Dr. Mark in January, but if I get a couple more ocular migraines like that I may go back and ask for a referral.  

I know my little sister has in the past, I don't know if she still does, had severe migraines (I used to but haven't had since I was prayed over years ago) which literally disable her.  She said her testing showed she has a cyst between the eyes and when it fills up with fluid, the headache comes on - and when the cyst bursts, the headache goes away.  Something a doctor told her.  She could have surgery to remove the cyst, but she didn't want a scar between the eyes.  Migraine versus scar.... I'm sorry, I'll take the scar, thank you very much.  I don't think that is my issue; I may not even have one.  I just get a dull headache and the ocular migraine usually lasts 20-30 minutes and then is gone.  Oh well.  I just keep living life.

I am so lazy at getting this room straightened up and other things done (I have the dining room table loaded with my diamond art projects) - I keep thinking about taking tomorrow off to work on everything.   I am taking Monday off.  Last full day my daughter will be in town - and it will be her 25th BMT Birthday.  They will head back home Tuesday morning.  I'll check in the morning when they get on the road and then will be able to determine more when they will be in town.  And I'm rambling. As usual.

No trainings on schedule until next Wednesday when Morgan gets back; she's taken time off to visit her brother in Kansas and they will spread her grandmother's ashes in Iowa.  I've got to get some exercising in while she is gone; don't what to lose what I've gained. I guess she and hubby had a chat yesterday and she encouraged him to just go to the rec center to work out a couple extra times a week.  So he is asking me if I can take off some time to go to the rec center with him a couple times a week.  Sigh. At least it is close and I won't be gone as long.  And I do get an hour lunch, which I usually eat at my desk or not take at all.  With these retainers, I'm certainly not snacking like I used to!  They are getting harder to get off and on. Then I have to brush my teeth before I put them back on.  I could stand to lose a pound or two anyway, right?  But the problem is, once I have them off... I try to get all my snacks in before I have to brush my teeth and put the retainers back in. LOL I sure do love food.  Which reminds me, my Tovala order should be coming in today.  It sure has made my life much easier as far as cooking.  But of course, now I'm starting to think about the money.   I could drop it to 4 meals instead of 6.  But I'm not going to the store; we aren't going out to eat as much (well, I'm not), so is it a win-win or ?? I don't know. Haven't sat down to analyze it - but I do know that it is nice to have our meals complete and all I have to do is put together and put in the oven.  It's like having a prepped meal and all you got to do is put it together and finish it.  Only I'm not doing the prepping.  Maybe if I ever retire where I can cook to my heart's content, I can do my own.  Definitely will be cutting Tovala and training out if I retire.  

I should have been born rich instead of just beautiful, right?

2 Corinthians 4:16 (NKJV):  Therefore do not lose heart. Even though our outward man is perishing, yet the inward man is being renewed day by day.

Once you grab hold of Jesus, you find yourself thinking of what you do and how you do things.  You start to give up things you 'used to do' because you feel they are detrimental to your health and well=being, and to your family and other relationships.  You start looking for ways to change habits. You want to do better. You want to give an example of who Jesus is in your life. You change your words, you change your behavior, you feel like you are finally starting to live life.  

Sometimes, once we get these changes in places, we find ourselves looking back over I lives and what we have given up.  Our outward man has perished and in it's place, we find one that we can be proud of. Our inward person is being renewed. And when we are 'good' in our inward parts, it reflects in our outward parts.  Does that make sense?  Knowing Jesus changes you.  I don't mean knowing OF Jesus, but knowing Jesus with your heart, soul, mind and body.  When we decide to follow Jesus, our lives change; we change.

There is a movie starring Cheryl Ladd made years ago.  I forget who else is in it.  It's called "Tho None Go With Me" (I think).  We have the DVD I think.  It may be a VCR.  But anyway, it is a great movie to renew and refresh who you are in Christ.  I won't give all the details, but this woman (Cheryl Ladd) has to make a decision.  She made the right one, although it was one she didn't want to make.  She often reflected on the words someone had told her - 'Tho none go with me, still I will follow Jesus'.  There is a song as well, saying that, I believe.  Not going to look it up now cause I'm already out of time!  Why does time fly when I'm trying to put my thoughts in here?  Could you imagine me writing a book (which was always my dream growing up) with all the ramblings I do?  LOL Now THAT would be a best-seller, right?

And with that, I need to get off here and get in the shower.  No lotions or deodorant today for certain parts of the body.  Wear no metal pieces on clothes.  All these things for just two tests. But - gotta do it.

Have an amazing day and reflect on who you are in Christ.  Give Him all the praise for a changed life, a life worthy to follow Him.  You are loved.

Blessings!

I forgot to share... part 2

 Yeah, you know how I like to share my day with you, and being distracted this morning, forgot about my afternoon yesterday!  Oh My!

I hear the doorbell ring and hubby went to answer it - it was about 2:30-ish, I'd guess.  It was Ms. Vicky and I hear her ask hubby 'can you fix my phone?'  1) Wrong thing to ask hubby (right?) and even I am not real smart on phones - plus she has a Samsung.  But the make was not the problem.

Ms. Vicky say her friend Crystle had taken her to AT&T that morning about something on her phone.  Now AT&T is the carrier, not the the maker of her phone.  Anyway.... the problem was that with saying her phone had a virus on it, AT&T told her to call a number for them to fix it.  That AT&T person put a password (supposedly) on her phone and although she said she remembered it, when she got home and plugged it in - she could not longer get her phone to open so she could use it.  She was in near panic mode when she came over.  She asked if I could take her to Crystle's house and Crystle could help her.  Sure, I can do that. So I left 'work' and started driving her to where she 'thought' Crystle's house was... but she didn't remember and didn't know the address, and the street didn't look right.  

Sigh. So she wanted to go to AT&T.  In the meantime, I'm keeping my mouth shut cause I don't really know what is going on with her phone.  We get to AT&T and she tells him her story and shows him her phone.  The password the AT&T person gave her didn't work and she couldn't get in her phone.   This guy tried calling the other AT&T store she was at that morning but she couldn't remember which store.  Obviously she doesn't pay much attention around her.

She wanted AT&T to call her friend Crystle.  They explain to her they cannot do that; even though Crystle also had AT&T, they don't keep people's names and numbers in a file.  Ms. Vicky couldn't understand why.  I'm minding my own business.  LOL I let her do the talking, after all, I didn't know exactly what was going on, other than the password she claims she was given wasn't working.  We left AT&T after about 30 minutes.  

Oh - and hubby calls me while I'm there with 'Are you OK?'  Needless to say, I had sharp words for him... and when I got home I told him that he has to quit being paranoid about me being 'out'!  He did that to me the other day as well.  If I'm not back in a specific timeframe, he will call and ask 'Are you ok?' - and although I probably should be appreciative of that concern, if I wasn't OK, I couldn't answer my phone anyway and he was annoying me!  He didn't speak to me until he got back home from bible study.  And that's ok.  Stop calling me if I'm not home when he thinks I should be!   Ok, I know he loves me, but I think it is more he is terrified I won't be here to take care of him and he would be alone.  If you know what I mean, you know what I mean, right?

Anyway - back to Ms. Vicky.  We were sitting in the parking lot at AT&T and I had an idea. Was she friends with Crystle on Facebook. Yes.  So I went to her profile on facebook and found Crystle (and found she was also giving me the wrong last name), and called her through facebook on my phone.  I explained the problem, and she immediately gave me the password for Ms. Vicky's phone. It worked.  It was Ms. Vicky's 'own' password; that had not been changed.  The phone worked. I brought Ms. Vicky home and suggested she write down on paper telephone numbers of her friends and family - she did not know anyone's telephone number.

Which got me thinking.... I have the majority of passwords in my phone. If I lost it or could not bring it up, very few would I remember.... and as for telephone numbers, I probably only know three or four in my entire directory!  So decided that perhaps, in my spare time, I should also sit down and write out names and passwords of accounts, names and telephone numbers of others.  I used to do that with emails years ago.  But we rarely email people now; it's all text, right?  Anyway, perhaps it is something you need to think about as well, if you haven't already done it.

We are so used to just punching a name on our phone that we never look at the number.  What if we accidently deleted their name out of our address book?  And then needed to contact them?  

Oh well - just had to share that story yesterday.  Ms. Vicky was all over the place with her confusion and she doesn't see well either so that doesn't help.  Glad I could help her, and it took less than an hour. Just wish I had thought about the facebook contact before driving her to AT&T and around trying to find Crystle's house.  I told her to get the address too.

And with that.... I need to add 'write down telephone numbers' on my list of things I want to do. Not to mean that I will do them, but want to, right?

Have an amazing day!

Blessings!

ps - if you are reading this first - look at the next post down.

Feeling distracted this morning.... Part 1

 I wonder if my distraction this morning has anything to do with my laziness last night?  Hubby had his bible study and I decided - although I have much to do - not to do anything but watch a movie, crochet, and eat whatever I want.  Well, that's what I did.  For dinner - I totally 'blew it' in watching what I was eating - I had a bean burrito.  Then I had a Jocko chocolate milkshake.  Then I finished it off a little later with my favorite - vanilla ice cream, with saltine crackers broken on top (don't knock it if you have never tried it - it's the salt/sugar combo that makes it so delicious), and chocolate syrup on top of that. That was dinner.  And I watched an episode of Chosen, and then watched Perfect Match on Up Faith and Family. I was skimming my phone when hubby got back home around 8p.  We talked a bit, skimmed our phones, and before we knew it, it was 9:20p so off to bed we went.  Actually I gave up first, then hubby followed. 

And now this morning I am feeling somewhat distracted.  I slept well, thank goodness.  The night before I had not.  Didn't want to get up this morning, but yet, here I am.  I've done my reading, yet, not as much as I normally do cause I couldn't stay focused.  (headache?) My first cup of coffee is gone and I'm thinking of going for another - it's only 6:10a.  I did take my BP this morning as Dr. Mark wants me to track it for the next 3 months to ensure I do NOT have to have BP meds.  Today it wasn't bad... 137/74 I think it was.  Still can't believe I've worried more about the bottom number and he tells me he is more concerned about the top number first, then the second.  Maybe I ought to read up on what the two numbers identify and then I can understand it.  I obviously did not give up my salt last night - bean burrito and then saltine crackers.  Oh yeah, I forgot, I ate about a cup full of Cheese-its - love them.  I know, didn't spell it right; too lazy to go look at the box. But you get the idea of what it was. The little orange squares with lots of salt on them.

Today I have no appointments to run off to (grateful) so I can hopefully get some work done.  I see they have moved the location for the board minutes (which I have yet to do) so I need to figure out if I have access to that area; I think I do.  UGH  I hate changes when they aren't explained to me!!  I need to get my things in order.  Right now I have one interim boss and 3 others I support (Brett's position has no interim).  Which is why I don't have much work.  I'm wishing they would offer me a severance package for I think I would take it!  I need a few months NOT working to regain my 'self', if you know what I mean.  When I took early retirement from MCP, I got a year's pay for taking it.  I didn't work until I ran out of paychecks. And I called that my one year of retirement.  Seems like that was a true statement, doesn't it?  Actually, if I did retire now, the only thing different is that I wouldn't have to sit in front of the computer all day.  With working from home, if I need to do something, I usually can get up to do it.  But, I still have those board meetings.... sigh.  See how distracted I am?  I guess I'm frustrated because I am getting no information on replacements or what admin changes will be happening.  I don't like being in limbo.

At this stage in my life, all I can do - and should do - is trust God that whatever is ahead of me - He will walk with me through it.  Good and bad.  I need to be listening more so that I hear what He wants me to do, which way He wants me to turn.  

"It's utterly impossible for us to fulfill our divine assignment in our own ability, because God firmly declares that He will share His glory with no one else."     John Bevere.

Isaiah 48:11 (NKJV):  ................... And I will not give my glory to another.

If any of us were to accomplish any divine destiny in our own ability, then God would have to share His glory with us, which He will not do! God intentionally made us, made our calling beyond anything we can do in our own power, so that we have to depend on Him and His grace to complete it.  Any task we complete, is by the grace of God.  All the glory belongs to Him.  Our pride, our ego, is left behind.  Without God we can do nothing.  Think about that for awhile.

Praise God from Whom all blessings flow, Praise Him all creatures here below.  Praise Him above ye heavenly hosts, Praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost.  Amen.

Yeah, that's the song that came to mind as I wrote that above paragraph.  In all things we are to praise the Lord.  Praise Him for the sunshine; Praise Him for the rain.  Praise Him for work, Praise Him for rest. In all things we are to Praise the Lord.

So I praise Him I have a job still.  I praise Him I need to clean up this house within the next few days. I can even praise Him for my laziness last night, for how do I know that He did not orchestrate my laziness so that I could give my mind 'rest'?  Just saying!  In all things, I do give Him praise.

And, with that, I think I will hush this morning.  I have a few minutes before time to turn on the work computer, and I'm just feeling like I need to sit quietly and chat (more) with my Father in heaven.  Some mornings that is the best thing I can do.  Shut my mouth, stop my fingers from moving over the keyboard.  Just sit and be still.

Psalm 46:10  Be still and know that I am God.

Have a 'beyond measure' day today!  Take time to thank and praise the One who gave this day to you.

Blessings!

Now that was interesting!

 I'll explain that statement in a bit, but for now, got to get my ramblings in. :-) You know you have waited an entire day to read those, right?  

I got through my HIIT workout yesterday and I was feeling it last night!  My entire body was letting me know I moved a muscle in that area - and that is a good thing!  Actually, it was kind of cool how God answered my prayers too!  It was raining when I left home so I prayed that the rain would stop (and it did)  and I could get a 'front' spot, meaning, right in front next to the gym.  So I go down the usual row and the car in front of me turned in the 3rd spot on my left from the door. And I laughed and told God "You gave that person MY spot!"!  But as I continued down that row, the first spot on the right was totally open!  God saved it for me!  "I'm His favorite". LOL

Came home and worked until time to head out to Dr. Mark's office.  And I got to go alone.  I didn't even turn the radio on.  I just drove and relished the quiet aloneness.  Is that so bad?  God also gave me a front row parking spot, but I did have to walk past a few cars to get to the sidewalk, and that's ok. It wasn't raining.  My doctor visit went well.  Weight same as it was last year (sigh).  Can't help it; I love food.  Dr. Mark says my intake of calories is the same as the outgo so nothing is coming off.  My A1c went from 5.6 to 5.7 so he 'suggested' I start watching my carbs and sugar intake... I do NOT want to be put on diabetic meds so it's up to me to prevent it, right?  And I'm not giving up my breads!  But here is what is interesting.  My sodium level was low.  Not by much, but down a number from the lowest range.  I would think no big deal, right?  But Dr. Mark did make it a big deal.  What did he tell me?  Quit drinking so much water!!  My urine was clear and it didn't have any 'specific gravity' to it.  My sodium is low.  Hence, I'm drinking too much water and need to cut back so that my sodium level will go back up.  It's not the salt part like we all would think.  I mean, I thought, ok, I'll just use more salt - but no, it's the sodium retained in the body (unless I misunderstood) from the salt in the foods I've eaten.  If it goes lower, it can cause dizziness, and other things, but I forget what he said.  So instead of my constantly drinking water, I need to allow myself to cut out a glass or two.  Not a lot, he said, don't dehydrate myself, but just cut it back a glass or two.  I can do that.  I think. I love my water.

And - my BP.... I took my monitor with me so that he could calibrate it with his.  I was surprised at the top number on his - and mine!  I've never had that top number that high - but account it to being int he doctor's office.  Ironically, he said my bottom number on my personal monitor is about 10 points too high.  His monitor showed my BP at 147/74.  My monitor showed 147/86.  So he said mine is calibrated pretty good, but to subtract ten points from the bottom number.  But here is what is interesting.  I always have thought the bottom number was what was concerning to the doctors.  Nope. He said it is the TOP number moreso!  At 147 they start prescribing low-dose BP pills.  He doesn't want to.  Now that I know what it really is, he told me that if I would lose 20 pounds gradually, that it would bring that down. Now that is a novel thought.  I've tried to lose weight, but I love food too much I guess.  I've always said my weight isn't coming down because I work out and gaining muscle.  And that's true, but I'm still eating the same, which means the body may be gaining muscle, but the muscle is just pushing the fat out. Do you hear what I'm saying?  Sigh.  So, my new goal is lose the 20 pounds and lower the BP numbers.  I can cut back on my salt (got to watch those potato chips, I guess!), drink less water (he said my body is holding on to the water too, so less water, the weight will also start to fall off).  Who knew? I always thought it was the bottom number, I always thought more water was good, so I guess my thinking isn't always right, huh!  I'm a bit smarter now..... I just need to remember that when presented with salty foods and carbs and oh my, December is coming when I do my baking for gifts - how am I NOT going to be eating them too??  

Dr. Mark asked when I wanted to come back for a follow-up as he wanted to have labs drawn again on the sodium levels and check my BP .... so I suggested after the holidays. He laughed and commented he guessed he would be my 'accountability partner' in that could I get through the holidays with all my baking and still 1) lose weight and 2) get my sodium level up and 3) get my BP down.  Time will tell!  I go back the end of January.  Oh - and I unexpectedly had a UTI I didn't know I had so got antibiotics for that.  I was very surprised to be charged by CVS $16 so I asked if they ran it through my insurance - and they said yes - but it's Amoxicillin!  WHEN did they charge that for that?  Never before!  Either that or I didn't notice.  That just proves I have to remain healthy for I won't be able to afford meds if my insurance doesn't pay more, right?!  but then too, I think he did say it was amoxicillin with a 'kick', meaning something was added to it.

So we went out for pizza last night after I got off work.  Yes, I know, salt.  But it was so good!  I love the thin-crust New York Combo at Streets of New York - and they loaded it more than they have before. Monday nights it is buy one get a second one for half price.  So we got two - and brought home to have today for lunch. :-)  so good!!

Today I have my orthodontist appointment early morning, and then a core workout at 11a.  Then I'm good until Thursday when I have my bone density and mammogram tests done. Then healthwise, I'm done for another year on that stuff. Two years on the bone density.  Oh yeah, Dr. Mark also suggested I walk a bit more every day - at least 25 minutes at a fast pace.  My brother's challenge of 5 miles at 3.5 three times a week by Christmas - surprisingly, Dr. Mark said that was pushing it too much.  My brother is 81 - does Dr. Mark think I can't keep up with him?  Watch this!!  LOL

My son posted a song on his blog that I listened to this morning.  Yes, it cleared out some tear ducts. I am pretty sure I know what he was thinking when he listened to it, and I found myself thinking about it as well... and about missing my siblings and my mama.  Since I was 7 when my dad passed, I don't remember much about him, but I am sure it would have made a difference in my life if he had lived.  I remember my brother telling me that Dad always thought he would be going back home and would be ok.  But that was years before kidney dialysis was in existence...  and he died of kidney failure due to diabetes.  I often wonder what would have changed in my life.

I'm feeling kind of mellow this morning, I think.  Fighting a dull headache too - from the weather - which is raining - outside, I imagine.  May take an excedrin to get rid of it, although I don't like to.  But, I have too much to do today to leave it hanging.  

So here I am.... thinking how to end the blog today as I have obviously made it 'all about me'.... perhaps I can leave you with this....

Hebrews 4:16 (ESV):  Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need.

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

We can do all things - even correcting my health issues - through Him who gives me the wisdom and the strength to complete them.  Now to tell my 'don't want to' to 'want to'.  Right?  

Have an amazing day - be the sunshine in someone's life today.

Blessings!

It will be a busy day

 I actually have 'things' I have to do today.  I have a HIIT workout with Morgan late morning, and then I have an early afternoon doctor appointment to review my blood work.  Both are good for my health, right?  And in between all that, I have to work.  I work so that I can go to the gym and have training, and pay for my doctor visits, right?  Got to keep my perspective on why I work. HAH!  I've already done a review of my blood work and I was surprised to see that my sodium was low.  I use salt, but granted, perhaps not a lot of it; it hasn't changed over the years.  Plus, like today, when I have a HIIT workout, I throw a packet of LMNT salt into my water that I take with me cause HIIT makes me sweat!  So that surprises me it's low.  I'm curious what Dr. Mark will say about it.  Hubby uses a lot of salt (in my opinion), and Dr. Mark told him to be 'liberal' with it at his last visit.  He isn't going with me today as today's visit is 'all about me'. :-)  The one thing that is starting to creep up is my BP and I'm concerned he will suggest BP pills - which I do not want.  I've been working on steadying my breathing this morning to lower it, but it hasn't helped much ... it's still higher than I feel it should be.  I'm to take my BP machine to Dr. Mark's if I don't forget; he wants to calibrate it with his (he still uses the one where you pump the pressure) and I am pretty sure mine is pretty accurate.  Will see what he has to say.  But my bottom number has been running in the low 80's.  Sigh.  I told Dr. Mark last time when we talked about it to remember who I live with.  Right?

This weekend was pretty quiet I think.  Yesterday we went to church - great message!  If you get an opportunity, go to Reclaim Church and choose the 9/27/2026 sermon.  Find your purpose was the title, I think.  So, yes, it is very good and ironically, it goes right along with the study I'm doing with Called by John Bevere.  What is YOUR purpose?  I am hoping to find mine.  Unfortunately, I often feel that I have to step aside to let hubby be the lead (cause that has what has happened for years) and if he doesn't want to, then it is usually I don't feel he is 'allowing' me to - even if he doesn't say that.  And I think I'll leave those comments alone.  Anyway - listen to Pastor John's message if you want / can - it was really good.

The mission statement at our church is Follow Jesus, Find Freedom, Find Purpose, and Make an Impact. Pastor John has been focused on each part for the past three weeks.  Next week will be 'Make an Impact'.  Should be a good one!  In my thinking, he will share places where people can step up and become involved in different things within the church i.e., helping with the children's classes on Sunday mornings, leading a Life Group, and... well, I can't think of what else.  Anyway, you get the picture, right?  I so want to get involved, I just don't know where.  In time, as I take this bible study and go through it, perhaps I will find where I can be the most helpful.

I finally did go see Ms. Vicky mid-afternoon, and of course she was thrilled to see me.  I mentioned to her that our church was going to start a 4th service at 5p on Sunday evenings the end of October and yes, she would like to go.  I wouldn't mind sitting through some of these sermons a second time.  It would get her out of the house and going to church. Yes, it would take some of my time that I have for 'me'... but all we do on Sunday evenings is watch NCIS anyway.  And if my taking Ms. Vicky to church will cause her to give her heart to Jesus, it is well worth it, right?  I don't know if she has ever been to church on a regular basis. I bought her a large print Bible several months ago, but I don't know if she reads it or not.  When we talk about the Bible and I suggest she read something in it, it's like she doesn't remember my giving her one or she doesn't know where she put it.  When it's important to her, he will remember.  I also got her a page magnifier with a light that she says that she does use all the time as her eyes have something that blocks out the middle vision and she has to constantly turn her head to capture the entire picture. My good deed for the day, right? And yes, I did come home to NCIS on the TV and we watched the rest of the evening. I did finish a baby blanket.

I was awakened at 3:15a this morning and could not go back to sleep.  I think I fell asleep a couple times for a few minutes while reading my bible this morning.  I say I think because it would be very brief, yet, my eyes could not stay open.  I'm more alert now (I think), but that may be because I'm sitting here typing.  It's almost time to get up and check the work computer.  

Have you ever read the book of Jeremiah? He was called before he was even conceived to be a prophet! He was a prophet for 40 years and they were not easy years.  One king cut up and burned a scroll that Jeremiah had produced about what was going to happen if they did not turn back to God.  Jeremiah was beaten and imprisoned, thrown into a muddy cistern (pit) to where he suck in its mud.  Jeremiah repeatedly called for God's people to repent and was treated terribly.  And yet, 

Jeremiah 33:3 (ESV):  "Call to me and I will answer you, and will tell you great and hidden things that you have not known."

No matter where we are in life, whether things are going good, or if things are very rough... very difficult... crushing.... God says to 'Call to Me'.... what does that mean?  God wants us to seek Him in all things, at all times.  It doesn't matter if our lives are prefect at the moment, Call to Him.  If we are struggling to just get through the day with life.... Call to Him.  God wants us to reach out to Him no matter where we are, or what we are doing.  You know that I am calling on Him - a LOT!  

When I don't feel well. When I have HIIT facing me (Lord, HELP!!). When I have a doctor's appointment and I don't know how that meeting will go.  When I'm angry with hubby. When I've been hurt by others. When finances don't match the situation/bills. When I overspend. When I don't do what I feel I should do and feel guilty..... so many different things... and each time I know I can call out to God and ask for His help, His intervention, His wisdom to undone what I've done.  No, I don't always get what I ask for, but I know He hears me.  Sometimes He doesn't answer cause He knows I know the answer.... I just don't want to do it.  You know what I'm talking about, don't you!  Those times when we want God to just remove the situation because we don't like it.... and He leaves us alone to figure it out. Why? Because that is how we learn to (hopefully) not do it again. To help someone else. To provide the solution ourselves.  He just works through us instead of giving us the immediate help we demand/ask for.  

He is a good, good, good Father!

And... yep, it's that time again.  Have an amazing day and be kind to others.  Life is hard sometimes and we need to come alongside others to cheer them on.  Be the cheerleader today.

Blessings!