And Sunday morning, it is.....

 I've done some of my reading this morning, stopped to take a quick shower, and here I sit. I'm debating on asking hubby if he wants me to make him an egg sandwich for breakfast.  It's 'only' 8a so will wait until I finish this.  He may have already eaten by the time I get this done and stop to ask him. I don't know, but an egg and sausage sandwich just sounds good, don't you think?  Along with a second cup of coffee.

We did enjoy the growth track session on the end times yesterday.  Wow - it was a lot of information in a very short timeframe.  I learned a lot of things I did not know or was aware of.  So I've renewed my interest in reading and studying Revelation and reading books on it.  In fact, I started - and finished! - a book titled The Final Hour by Marilyn Hickey.  My little sister, if you recall from posts a while ago, is 'into' the end times and there for awhile that was all she could talk about.  She had sent me this book several months (years?) ago - and I had never read it.  Well, I read it all the way through last night - took me about 5 hours, I'd guess.  Hubby wants to read it now.  (erased my sarcastic comment that was not necessary).  I pulled a couple other books off the shelf, one I have gone through before.  Both are by Ron Rhodes.  One is 40 days through Revelation.  I read it before and learned a lot, but now that I have more information in my head, I think that I will go through it again as it has been several months since I read it.  One day at a time - and it has you read certain portions of Revelation as you go through each day.  It was interesting, if I recall, so I am looking forward to reading it again.

We saw Pastor Josh yesterday at the growth track (he is our associate pastor and we just love him!) and he told us he will be speaking this morning as Pastor John and Lindsay are on vacation for three weeks.  On a lake somewhere, I'm sure!  What is he going to speak on?  He said that based on the topic of the end times we heard, he was going to talk about what we need to do as we are now in the end times. Should be an interesting message.  We've only heard him speak a couple times, but are looking forward to it.

My youngest son took me to Buc-cees yesterday and oh my goodness!  It was difficult to find a parking space (and he has a handicap tag!) so we parked a few rows back from one of the doors.  We walked inside and it was wall-to-wall people.  My first instinct was 'let's turn around and leave!'  I don't like being in large crowds without any space.  Well, there was a little space here and there, and we made our way from one end to the other; almost a straight line in fact!  My son kept asking if I wanted to look at anything, and I kept saying 'no' cause I didn't want to deal with everyone in the way.  You know I like my space when I shop!  Besides, when I shop, I browse more than I shop, and I didn't want to keep my son in the crowd either - plus we had the great-granddaughter with us. And yes, she did behave, but she wanted this and that but we both kept saying 'no'.  My son did buy me some Buc-cee nuggets - so I shared with her on the way home.  We definitely did not do much more than in and out - probably in less than 30 minutes total!  Luckily, in the middle doors there are cash registers and one had no one in front of it so we were able to pay for the bags of nuggets and head out the door.  We were wanting to get the brisket sandwiches that people brag about, but I kid you not - that line was down to the end of the building and back up again.  Uh no.  I am not going to stand in line for an hour for a brisket sandwich. I was told that the middle of the week or the middle of the night is probably the best time to come and browse.  Well, unless there is something I really need, I don't think I need to go again.  It was interesting and I'm glad my son took me.  I will not drive there, that's for sure!  It would be a fun place to browse through and see everything - without the crowd!

Today, after church, as far as I know there is nothing on the agenda.  We both will probably settle down with a book, take a nap, and then watch NCIS.  That's our usual Sunday afternoon. LOL  Ms. Vicky will probably be calling me to come over this evening.  I still need to see Ms. Diane. Maybe I'll pause on the reading and nap and go up there.  Will see.  

I meet with Sue first thing in the morning for my 'ARC Review'.  I brought up my self-evaluation again and was going to ask HR to send it back to me so that I could delete some things.... but, I must have already deleted some of the things I had written, for I didn't see anything I needed to remove. So I just left it alone.  Sue and I will go over it, and she will either put 'meets expectations' or 'exceeds expectations' - which 99.9% she puts exceeds.  I need to buckle down and learn more about powerpoint and a few other programs that are used. Not that I want to, but I think I will be working at least two more years, Lord willing and my health and mind survive.

Why would I work two more years?  At the orthodontist office they told me that Cigna pays their $2500 in payments, a little each month - over two years.  And, if I leave work (i.e., retire or quit), they quit paying and I would be responsible for the balance.  Sounds logical.  So - I've got to keep my mind active and my body active and healthy and keep working. Only way to keep my sanity at times anyway, right?

Galatians 1:10 (NIV):  Am I now trying to win the approval of human beings, or of God? Or am I trying to please people? If I were still trying to please people, I would not be a servant of Christ.

What does that scripture say to you?  Have you ever been all dressed up and walked into a room, only to feel very awkward and out of place?  I know I have.  I want to turn around and leave when that happens. It's happened to me at work, it's happened to me even at church.  Why?  Because I sometimes feel like I'm 'not good enough' or get the 'what are you doing here? who do you think you are?' feelings when around certain people who are more confident than I am.  I know I am good enough, and I know who (and Whose) I am, but sometimes, my insecurities get in the way.  Does that happen to you?  Do you ever step in a room and feel so totally out of place that you want to leave?  What do you do?

Galatians 1:10 reminds us why this is important.  Are we trying to win the approval of the people in the crowd by the way we look, the way we dress, the way we carry ourselves?  Or are we wanting to please God and be His example to this hurting world?  If we are still trying to please people, we are not God's servants, for people have become our focus.  If we want to be the kind of people God can use anywhere at any time, we must get good at saying no to that resistance inside of us that is called awkwardness.

So how do we learn to do this? We might think we just need to become more confident. But it really does go deeper than that.  It's not really a matter of gaining more confidence.  It's a matter of being more certain of our convictions.  Confidence is being certain of our abilities. Conviction is being certain of God's instructions - a firm, foundational belief. 

When we have have God's confidence in us, we can walk into a crowded room and feel right at home. We are where He wants us.  We are His people, His light in this dark world.  

Matthew 5:13 (NIV):  You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled underfoot.

You make a difference.  Sometimes just by being there, you have encouraged someone who may be struggling.  And most times, it's not about you, and what you are feeling.  It's about those around you, who may just need you to sit with them.  Be bold. Be confident. You are God's servant.  

Have an amazing day!

Blessings!

The word is out...

 Yes, I'm starting this Thursday night before I forget to share.  Remember in today's blog I mentioned about another resignation...??  Well, it is Chuck; President of our division. He sent the email out this afternoon so it is now 'out there' and we can talk about it. I really like Chuck.  Even though I am low on the 'totem pole', if I email Chuck, or text him, he always answers me.  I send him birthday cards, that is how 'close' we are.  So... what I and Sue chatted about yesterday when she told me about it...  I think I shared that Brett was upset he wasn't getting a 'bigger' title than what he had.  He also told me that he had told Chuck he wanted his job, but didn't think Chuck would be retiring for 2-3 years.  Well, Chuck has decided to retire in September this year.  Now mind you, Brett would have had to apply and all that... but the point I'm making, is if God wanted him to have that job..... there might have been a chance if Brett had not decided that he couldn't wait for a new title and tried to force the hand by turning in a 2 week notice. He has no chance now.  But I love what Sue said - "See what happens when you don't wait on God!"

In fact, the notification stated that the new Sr. VP COO is taking over this division in September - and it sounds like there is going to be a lot re-organization.  Sue has been asked to stay through the end of August to ensure transition happens.  How does this affect me?  I have no clue.  I'm going to sit back and see what happens.  I'm 'seeing' lots of wheels turning in the background.  It may never affect me, but if they move Sue's position to a higher level.... they may or may not take me up as well. Not that my title could change...I don't think.  But I'm thinking more that if they consolidate some areas and I'm 'extra', maybe they will offer me early retirement.... and yes, I would take it because they give a compensation package.  That would be the way to go out, right?  Retiring on my own I get nothing.  But it is just my brain going in circles. Doesn't mean any of it will happen for me.  I know one thing.... unless they offer early retirement, I'm going to stay put and see what God has planned for me.  I'm in no hurry and titles can be bought, ya know?  It's never been about the title for me.  This company has been very good to me and I can not complain.

And here it is in the wee hours of Friday morning.  Well, not so much 'wee hours' now as it it 4a.  I was awake just before 3a and got up because I couldn't sleep.  I tried to go back to sleep in here as the room is cooler, and I was in my chair, but no, that wasn't going to work either. After about 30 minutes I decided to go through emails and get to this so that I focus on my reading when I'm done.  Hubby has his bible study this morning and I just need to make sure he is up by 5:30a.  He does plan to go visit our friend afterwards so he may be gone all morning again.

My evening alone last night was nice.  I had gotten from Amazon a bread box that needed to be put together earlier this week. It sat on the cabinet most of the week, with no comment from hubby.  So after he left, I decided to put it together - all by myself! - and I did.  If he had offered, I was going to let him 'do it' - but as I had a little difficulty on some of it as the instructions are all photos, and no words... but I figured it out and it looks good. Then I watched a movie, and finished up a baby blanket.  I was working on my diamond art project when hubby got home.  Got a lot more done on it too.  

I expect another quiet day today for work. I have been getting a few things done, but nothing of any great importance. Yeah, I still need to do the minutes. LOL What is it me and minutes that I just don't like to do them? It won't take me ten minutes.  I will get them done today.  Maybe I'll work on the deck for the July 30 meeting; that's the next one. (Darn, I hear hubby up.... will he stay up or go back to bed?)

Got to work on clearing off this bed today too.  I've gotten several Amazon packages and I need to do reviews so maybe I'll work on those after signing in for work.  That's more fun than doing minutes anyway.

Going to have hotdogs and hamburgers for dinner today at the VFW.  It's the Riders group night meal and I'm all for not having to figure out dinner.  I had a great dinner last night.  Sigh.  Watermelon. Pretzels. Cookies.  I just didn't really want anything so ate junk food.  Oh - I finally tasted the last jar of salsa I had made for my oldest son.  It is really good - and spicy!  I'll have to 'remember' to give it to him when I see him today.  Wasn't sure it would still be good, but it is, and I'm sure he will have it gone in one setting.  Yeah, it's that good. I will have to try it again.

Yeah, today is just ramblings (again), but I'm not pulling anything in to talk about.  

OH YEAH!  I did the HIIT yesterday and it felt so good!  5 exercises, 3 sets each, in 30 minutes - and I was sweating!  (and I come home and by night ate cookies.  Sigh)  We will start building it in my 'routine' for every other week now.  Next week will be legs and core.  Both will leave me in pain.  I was 'feeling it' last night after the HIIT workout.  It's really over all the body.

So now I'll jump off here and start with my reading. Just wanted to get this done since I started it last night.

Have an amazing day!

Blessings!

It was a very good day

 Yesterday was a little cool (for me) but it was a beautiful day.  I got my daughter and SIL to the airport and found my way out of the endless circle around the airport.  Yes, I was watching my GPS and praying all the way!  Found my way home, and of course hubby was already gone to his bible study.  The house was quiet.  I loved it.  

I decided to clean out the cabinets about the washer/dryer.  I got rid of 'things' and moved 'things' around and it looks much nicer now.  Laid out a bunch of 'supplements' that hubby had bought and stuck a note on them to look at and throw away what he wasn't using.  I decided it was time for me to leave... I knew hubby would be home within the hour.  Oh- back up to earlier int he morning!

The bees!  They were everywhere again yesterday morning!  The side of the flower pot was covered.  I got a call about 8AM from the Bee company I had called and asked if they could come out then - I said yes.  They arrived about 20 minutes later.  Two men got in their bee suits and came in with what looked like a wet vac.  He proceed to suck the bees into it until he got all the were on the side.  There were several still flying around and he said they would come back to the pot and look for the queen bee, but not finding her, they would eventually leave.  If the bees come back within 60 days, they will remove at no cost.  Oh, yeah, that threw me off!  And it is my fault.  I did not ask the cost.  When they were finished, I asked how much - and he says 295.  I stared at him.  "You mean as in $295?" I asked.  Yes.  Wow.  I told him that was unexpected; but it was my fault for not asking.  And I paid it.  At least the bees are gone.  Calling them again?  No.  I don't care how nice they are.  They will get removed another way.  The bee company said they do take the bees to a bee farm (probably sell them!) up in Lake Pleasant and they let them go free there.  So what they do is just transplant them from a location they shouldn't be - to a place they can be.  

After that I did clean the 3 cabinets out - and then decided to get out the door.  I went to Ross and spent some time there.  Didn't buy much, but a few things.  Came home.  Decided to leave again and went to Hobby Lobby.  Found two pictures to hang on the wall to replace where the Santa pictures were last month.  Got a few other things and came back home.  By then I was really hungry as I hadn't eaten but one egg that morning.  Took hubby to Denny's.  Still fasting, it was very hard to find something to eat there.  But I decided I wanted nachos - but how?  Our 'hostess' came up with a solution.  No meat, lots of cheese, and added avocados.  Oh yeah - it was so good.  I also ordered a cobb salad for me and hubby got pancakes.  Focused on the nachos which hit the spot, I brought the salad home to be eaten sometime this weekend.  I tell you what - Denny's must have gotten larger bowls for the salad.  I have never gotten a salad so big!  It was huge!

Once home we watched a movie and then eventually headed to bed.  But you know what?  It felt so good not to be sitting in front of the computer; to be out by myself doing the 'stroll' through the stores. I had gift cards from Christmas and only ended up using one, so I still have two $50 gift cards to use (oh darn, right?) so told hubby I think I need to hit Burlington and see what they have.  Haven't been there in years.  And then there is Home Goods.  And Sams Club. and I'm sure I can think of a few more places to go to.  There isn't anything we NEED, or anything I NEED, but sometimes it just feels good to walk and think about how would I use that item.  I told hubby I was off on Monday, but didn't elaborate on it, so I don't know that it has soaked in.  He will be home so I'm hoping I can still get out of here alone. 

So here it is Saturday and we're home.  I look about this room and think, yeah, I need to work in here today.  I don't like crowds and those who work are at the stores on the weekend.  So I may as well stay home and clean this room, right?  I'm actually feeling pretty good this morning (of course I'm still in my room) so maybe I can get this room straightened up.  I hope I can.  I don't think hubby has anything planned for today.  But I also need to go to the grocery some time today.

I know I do need to work on a message for next Sunday at the RV park.  In fact, my lay leader called me last night for the title and scripture and I told her that she isn't to call me until Sunday!  LOL  One time they called me two weeks ahead.  I haven't made mu mind up until Sunday before!  They just want the title and scripture to put in the bulletin and I know they meet on Tuesday.  She can wait until Sunday or Monday to get it.  But I do need to figure out what I'm doing.

Our 21 day fast is over at midnight tonight.  Our church corporate fast started later and is not over until February 9th.  Hubby has decided that 3 weeks - 21 days - without meat, without bread, without sweets, is long enough.  He is not continuing the fast with the church.  Me, I have decided to continue to fast 'something' to be united with the church.  It can't hurt me, right?  And I'm not losing weight even though I gave up meat, breads, sweets, and coffee.  (Yes, I even gave up coffee!)  I'm drinking my tea.  And I have plenty of tea bags so have plenty to taste1  So what will I continue with giving up?  I think I will switch to my BBCD - no beef, no bread, no chocolate, no desserts.  Which means I can go back to my coffee if I want, and can fix chicken or fish for me, as I will for hubby.  The no bread is still a big deal for me, as is no chocolate.  I still have at least one bar of snickers in the freezer; I haven't touched the bag for the past 20 days so don't remember if there is just one or more in there.  But I know I have frozen snickers!  Hubby's bag of paydays has been driving him 'nuts' - lol  pun intended - he did get into them before the fast - but hasn't touched them since.  That's probably what he's really waiting for! HAH!  I have them out of sight in the drawer in the laundry room refrigerator. Guess where he will go once he chooses to end his fast?  Unless he continues to give up sweets.

Fasting isn't easy, never has been, never will be.  Why?  Because fasting is giving up something you enjoy for something far greater - closeness to Jesus.  I still haven't spent as much time as I would like with Jesus during this fast, and I need to re-evaluate how I need to change.  I need to purposely spend time with him besides the time I spend here in the mornings.  Jesus never said 'IF you fast"....  He said "WHEN you fast...".  We are called to fast.  And people fast for different reasons.  Some fast to lose weight.  Some fast to make themselves 'look good'.  But when your heart is in your fast and your eyes are on Jesus - that is a true fast and you will find your reward with Him.  That's the fast I want; that is the fast I try to do.  Trust me, I have NOT lost weight giving up meat and bread and chocolates and desserts and coffee and whatever else.  It's not just giving up things, it is keeping our eyes on Jesus.  Where has been your focus lately?

And with that - I'm off here.  Want to do some more reading before I have to go fix breakfast for hubby.  It's Saturday morning and I usually cook him breakfast.  No pancake today as he had them yesterday. But will probably fix my potato egg dish - he loves that.  And I do too.  Have an amazing day!

Blessings!

Please let it rain.... (and a new update reading)

 It was cloudy yesterday and I had hopes of rain, but it didn't arrive. At least not here.  As I open the shutters this morning, I see it is still cloudy. I wonder if it will remain cloudy, rain, or the sun will come out.  I'm not 'one of those people' who have to check the weather forecast every day.  When I lived in Indiana - I know I won't get it right - but we would say something like "If you don't like our weather, just wait a few minutes, it'll change."  I wonder if I google it - if the saying would be there.  Let me check.

Oh my!  It looks like no one can determine who actually said it, and many contribute it to their city/state - i.e., Kansas, Chicago, New England.... I didn't see Indiana in there, but I know we said it.  Funny, isn't it, how sayings of the past can sometimes come back to mind?  What thought just popped into your head about a saying you heard while growing up?

Yesterday was a fairly good day.  I did something I rarely - very rarely - do.  I went to TJ Maxx.  I remembered I had a gift card from my male boss from back in April.... and I could go to TJ Maxx, Home Goods, or a couple other places.  I haven't been to a TJ Maxx in years so decided to pop in there and spend my gift card.  It didn't take long. LOL  I got a new shower curtain and liner for my bathroom. Bought some hair ties. Got a travel cup. Got roasted pumpkin seeds (thought I might make some more pumpkin scones and put on top - wouldn't that be cool?  Or even inside!) Tissue paper. Hmm can't remember what else I bought.  But yes, I did go over the gift card and that was ok.  I spent the gift card. :-)  I probably won't go back to TJ Maxx.... it was so busy (people) and I really didn't see anything that I couldn't live without.  I should have gone thrifting. LOL  Hubby asked me what that meant when I mentioned it the other day.  I did explain.  I love looking at pretty dishes.  And books. :)

Came home and dumped everything on the bed back here (which is what I seem to do with everything) and sat down to crochet.  Hubby took me out for breakfast yesterday.  I bet my oldest son would like this place, but it is a ways for him to drive.  This time I (and hubby) got the Arizona All Meat Skillet - only they served it on a plate, and not in a skillet.  I found out why, but it's no big deal.  But, I told hubby that I will go back to the Arizona All Meat Omelet.  The skillet is with two eggs (which is ok; I couldn't eat it all anyway.  The omelet is with 3 eggs and when I ate it - I ate the entire thing it was so good! Don't know what the difference is - spread out on a plate or rolled up in eggs - but I prefer the omelet.  I have leftovers and will see if hubby wants them this morning.  If not, I may pick at it.  

So with eating a big breakfast, we didn't do lunch.  We did watch our service yesterday and it was good.  I went shopping.  It was Ms. Vicky's birthday and I did text her happy birthday - and she said her daughter was taking her out for lunch.  I didn't check back later; I probably should have gone over - but I did not. I stayed home last night and we watched reruns of NCIS.  I had hubby shut the TV off at 9PM and I read for a bit while he went through his phone before going to bed.  

Hmm - haven't seen this lady for awhile - she's out walking with her walking sticks.  I have a set, sent to me last year for my birthday from my big brother.  I got hubby a pair some time - he has used one of the sticks one time.  I haven't taken mine out of the bag - haven't been anywhere that I'd need them.  Maybe I should start walking and use them?  Especially since we are seeing coyotes in this area.  Yesterday one was laying in Ms. Diane's yard across the street.  Mangy, dirty and very thin.  They come in our area from the golf course.  I think this is the third one I've seen in recent months.

Back to work today and it is timecard Monday.  Yep - gotta approve timecards for Thursday's payroll.  I used to jump online to get it done right away - but people are lazy and they usually wait to get reminded to approve their timecard before I do.  I used to just go ahead and approve it - but we have received notice from payroll that we are not to do that.  So - I keep sending emails to them to approve it until it's the timeline - and I just go ahead and approve. Salaried would get paid anyway, thank goodness I don't have to approve hourly people, they are a pain.  Nothing pressing going on today so I'll take my time in the approvals.  I approved mine on Friday so I'm good. :-)

I think my glucometer is out of whack.  I've noticed lately that when I've taken my glucose it has been higher than usual.  Last week it was 'high', then it dropped down the next 3-4 days.  Yesterday it was high again, somewhat, and this morning, before coffee, and after taking my meds - it was 125.  High for me.  So I've waited about half hour.  I've had nothing but some of my coffee (which hubby puts collagen in) - and you won't believe it - it just jumped to 138!!  Now mind you, I have not eaten anything!  I try to watch what I eat before I go to bed, but I did have a half cup of Mediterranean lentel soup and 2 Oreo mint cookies for dinner.  Surely that did not throw it up high!  It usually ranges like 100-105 so I've never been concerned. But 125 and now 138 without me even eating anything?  I think something is wrong with the machine!  I hate that glucose monitoring is not from sugar so much but from carbs.  I kid you not - I can skip dinner and it will still be in the 105 range.   Maybe it's in my vitamins? Maybe I should take it before my vitamins?  I am sure my son has some wise advice, but I'll do what I want, just as he does. :-)  Love you, son.  I'm not worrying about it.  The only thing that counts is when I go get lab work done.... and I'll make sure I'm real careful before I go get that done!  LOL  I'm one of these stubborn people who likes 'good reports' and will do all I can to get '100' on the score.  You know what I mean.  We strive to get A's, don't we!  But, sometimes our bodies tell us no.  Every morning I tell myself I'm going to do better.  And most days I do.  I haven't been in the Oreo cookies in several days. And last night I ate two.  Sigh.  I still don't think that's bad.   ADDENDUM - ok - I just took it again at 7:45AM - and it's down to 107.  I've eaten nothing and I've only had one cup of coffee.  Weird, huh!

Psalm 119:148-149 (NKJV):  My eyes are awake through the night watches, that I might meditate upon Your word.  Hear my voice according to Your lovingkindness; O Lord, revive me according to Your justice.

As I was reading through some of Psalm 119 this morning, I wonder at the thoughts of David as he penned it.  I remember the nights that I am awakened 'around the first watch of the day' and how I have laid there and asked God why was I awake.  Was it to pray? Was there something specific? I will admit I have gotten lazy.  In the past I would slide out of bed, get on my knees beside the bed and whisper prayers for whatever God brought to my mind.  Now, I just lay there and pray.  Does God still hear me/ Yes. I don't doubt that.  But, I do recognize that I always feel much closer to God when I get on my knees to pray than I do lying in bed.  It's a 'me' thing.  It's like when I journal and write out my prayers, some days I don't feel as close to Him as I do when I verbally speak my prayers.  Does that make sense? I know He still hears me, I never doubt that.  But when I long for His closeness, it is to my knees I go.  I know He hears my voice when I cry out.  God has answered so many of my prayers, I cannot help but praise Him and exalt Him for all He has done for me.

When was the last time you even whispered a few words to God?  Have you ever thought that perhaps He is the One waking you when you really want to sleep?  Have you ever thought that perhaps you ought to just say, like Samuel did, "Speak Lord, for your servant is listening."  And then wait.  He might reveal something to you that you have been needing an answer for.

And now - since it's Monday - you know I need to get on the work computer.  I'll get it up and going, get myself dressed in real clothes - and I need to water my plants this morning.  Need to get my butt moving.  Hope your day is amazing!

Blessings!

The number always varies

 After several days of 8, 9 and some a bit higher number of 'readers', I am surprised to see a 22 on yesterday's post.  Do people just scan words in google and see what comes up to read a blog and comment on it at times?  No comments today, but I found the number interesting.  I write more for my oldest son, than for anyone else, I think.  He knows more about me than anyone does,  How? Because he reads what I write and I ramble in here about everything. Well, most everything.

My oldest son did bring a smile to my face last night. I always love hearing from him.  But I was amused when he txt'd me that his best buddy, whom I have met, said he wanted some of my pickles and jam I made.  So of course I said sure!  Then a little later I noticed that he also wrote that several others were wanting some too. Everyone wants free stuff and everyone wants home made stuff, right?  I didn't respond.  Not that I didn't want to make it and give it away, but it does take a lot of time to do, and it does cost for the jars, and for the products that go in them.  Happy to do it for this friend though, and if my son asks specifically for someone, I will do it for him.  Why do I do it?  Cause I love my son, and because I love to cook and bake.  I love trying new recipes.  

So - yes, I did work on the pickles last night and I'm not too sure about them.  They really are too small to 'slice', and cutting lengthwise they look odd, but I do have a few jars of those.  I can use up more cucumbers by slicing them.  But last night I just cut in half the mini cukes and put in the jars - and then heated up the 'brine' and poured over them.  It's weird how they float to the top. I'd suggest shaking the jar before opening it and getting the turmeric I put in it mixed in with the rest of the liquid.  Did 4-5 jars that way, I think.  Three jars did not seal so they are sitting in the refrigerator.  May check with the neighbors and see if I can give the rest of the mini cukes away - I think I have nine packages that I haven't opened yet.

I made a beeline to Walmart yesterday after watching church online.  I didn't spend as much as I thought I did - which is a good thing - and I bought two more cases of jars.  The cases have really gone up over the years - Ball jars are $19.99 a case of 12 now most places.  I did grab Walmart's off brand and I think they were $15.99 - $4 is $4, right?  I give them away as part of the gift so breaking up the price it isn't much, but continuously buying jars and giving them away gets expensive.  Plus, I will be making some salsa for gifts too - which I can't make until the week before Christmas. Got to make sure I have jars for that.  I have another salsa recipe that is really good so I may make some of those as well - and let people choose which one they want.  Still have so much I want to make and bake!  But just not a lot of time to do it.  I definitely do want to make more jam.  The batch I made last night only make 2 1/2 pints - and it took 2 cups of cranberries and 2 cups of strawberries (cut up!).  I do want to try and make at least one more batch today.  I can put it on the stove as I'm working and just run back and forth and check on it.  

I meet up with my boss and my favorite doctor (who delivered two of my grandchildren) and a former CFO I worked with for breakfast next Saturday.  I'll take something to my boss, but she will get the most of her things in another month.  The other two I probably will not see again 'this year' so will take them bread and pickles, and maybe jam, if I have several jars made.  I love this doctor; his wife always emails me how much they love my bread and pickles.  The CFO?  When I gave pickles to her when we worked together - she would sit and eat the entire pint of pickles for lunch!  Always cracked me up.  She loves taking my cranberry pumpkin nut bread and slices it lengthwise and puts in the toaster oven - then either butters it or puts cream cheese on it.  Sounds good, doesn't it?  I haven't done that, but it sounds good.  In fact, I generally eat very little of the bread - I love to bake it and give it away.  I want to bake some 'regular' bread and give away this year too - but don't know if I will have the time.  It all takes work and time and money, but I love doing it.  

Sitting here thinking of all the years I have been making salsa and pickles and giving away - and some have even bought them!  I think I used to sell them for about $5 a jar - and I remember one Christmas that extra money helped a lot.  Never did sell a lot, though.  Most don't like the 'sweet' taste in the salsa. I remember one year a girl asked for a jar and said her husband was allergic to garlic so could I make it without the garlic.  Well, I did, but don't recall hearing how it went over.  Another guy I used to work with wanted pickled cauliflower - and I did make it.  And he loved it.  You can pickle just about anything, I think.  But I think I'll stick to the pickles.  Just not sure how these mini-cukes ae going to go over.  I didn't add onions to them - so if one has a fork, they just pull out a chuck of pickle at a time and eat as a snack, I'm guessing, or drain the jar and set them out on a tray.  

I did not get any wrapping done yesterday, but after doing some canning all afternoon, sat down and watched a couple NCIS episodes on ION and then watched a Christmas movie on Up Faith and Family. All the while I was sitting and crocheting.  Oh, I was not real happy at Walmart yesterday.  They have basically done away with their sewing section and their yarn section. I walked all over the store looking for that area - and when I 'accidentally' found it - the lace that I was wanting to finish the quilt with - they had none.  What lace they had was not what I was wanting.  I'm hoping I can 'run away' for lunch today and head to JoAnn's late morning and get the lace that I need.  So disappointed for that is about what I'm down to and I'm finished with this blanket.  Thank goodness I don't have any more crochet gifts to make, but can focus on the quilts while watching movies with hubby.  When I'm not baking and canning, that is.  I have two more baby quilts to make after this one; they don't have to be done by Christmas, but would like for one to be so that I can give it to a granddaughter at Christmas. I've bought a couple things for our new baby and can't wait for her to arrive. 

John 17:17 (NKJV):  Sanctify them by Your truth. Your Word is truth.

The verb 'sanctify' means to set apart for a sacred purpose. Can also refer to making something or someone holy.  We generally say it means 'to set apart'.  And that's what God's Word does.  When we take His Word, the Bible, and apply it to our lives, we know that it is TRUTH.  God never lies and His word is Truth.  The Bible teaches us how to live and when we follow His Word, and obey and live by His Word, we are 'set apart' for His purposes.  Does that make sense?  It's more than just reading His Word, it is obeying and doing with God's Word says.    I'm not always perfect with that, and I'm guessing you aren't either.  I always have some area to work on.

Hubby was fussing at me yesterday.  I guess while I was out, he was trying to 'locate' me on Life 360, and couldn't.  At some time I must have marked being viewed as 'when using app' rather than 'always'.  To make him happy, I changed it to always so that he could track me. But I did tell him that I will block him if he tries to 'track' me every time I leave the house like he used to.  I told him that I would tell Pastor Paul if he does!  A few years ago we had it on our phones and all he did was track me every single time I left the house. I was working several miles away at that time, and he would text me if he saw I went some place for lunch and ask where I went.  Uh - too much tracking. I commented on it to Pastor Paul one time and he couldn't believe it - and got all over hubby about it.  Hubby deleted the app. And that's been great. It's not like I'm going somewhere I shouldn't. I usually tell him where I'm going.  But he lives glued to his phone anyway - and it's just another app to see where I am.  So why did I put it back on the phones?  Because hubby gets confused sometimes when he's out and I feel I need to track him when he isn't back when he should be.  He goes on numerous doctor appointments, some breakfasts and lunches anymore and I usually forget to even look at Life 360, forget I have it.  He should be back within a reasonable amount of time.  I'm hoping if something happens and he doesn't come back right away, I can track where he is and see if he is ok.  Always concerned about an accident happening.  After his comments yesterday about not being able to track me, I fixed the app where he could see me, but I also reminded him that if he starts tracking my every movement as he did in the past, I will delete myself from the app and he won't be able to see where I am.  Actually, what I told him was that I'd tell Pastor Paul he was 'doing it again' and let Pastor Paul get on his case. LOL

And with that, I need to get off here and sign in to the work computer.  It's Monday and I have lots to get accomplished today.  I don't know why I'm struggling so with getting things completed - probably because I don't want to do it?  Could be!  Hope that you have a productive day!

Blessings!

Home again.... and marriage....

 We had asked for late checkout at the hotel for yesterday..... but after eating breakfast, coming back to the room, packing everything up... hubby looked at me and asked 'are you ready to go?' And I said 'yes', so we loaded up the car and were on the road by about 9AM.   We were home by 10:30AM - and after unpacking the car, we both took a nap!  We just didn't sleep well at the hotel.  But it was good to be home, as well.

After my nap, I decided I wanted to go to the Brass Armadillo, which is an antique place back in our old neighborhood.  My daughter called it an 'old people's yard sale' the first time I took her there.  Cracked me up.  And it's true!  Anyway, as I started to leave, my friend Melonie came to mind and I wondered if she would want to go with me.  So I called her as I sat in the driveway before heading out.  She did.  So I picked her up and we headed over there.

And we had a lot of fun.  She had never been there so it was a treat for her.  I enjoyed pointing out some dishes that I remember my mother having as I grew up.  I'm not sure what she bought, but I ended up buying a large yellow bowl (which, ironically, is the same type bowl I grew up with at home) - and yes, I needed it.  I threw away the large plastic bowl I have used for the past 40+ years just before Christmas as it was starting to chip and I didn't want the plastic getting in food.  So I threw it away.  This one is glass. Anyway, I got the bowl, and something for a granddaughter, and something for a daughter in law for Christmas.  I also got a little wire bunny to give to my friend to remind her of our afternoon together.  (she loved it).  It was a fun 3+ hours we spent there.  Stopped for a chocolate covered ice cream cone at DQ and then we headed back home.  My friend was still excited about the place and she plans to take her sister there.

And she told me about a place here on our side of town and how she donates there because they support Hospice of the Valley.  I like that.  And when they don't sale some things and need to move them out, they donate to the homeless.  I like that too.  She's going to take me there cause I am willing to give things away if they will benefit other people - not like Goodwill who is 100% for profit.  Savers gives to Big Brothers Big Sisters.  I'm sure there are other good places to donate to, but I love when I know people aren't making a profit from things I donate.  Does that make sense?

Hmmmm listening to Robert Morris speak at Free Chapel this morning, and he is speaking on marriage.  In fact, the last four weeks have been different pastors speaking on marriage.  I tell you what, last week with Greg Groeschel it was amazing.  If you get a chance, go listen to Free Chapel's February 18th service - it will have you laughing at so many things.  But this one, with Dr. Robert Morris, is really good.  Check it out.  

Contract - you identify your rights and responsibilities.

Covenant - you give up your rights and responsibilities.  

That is what marriage is.  It's NOT a contract.... it is a covenant.  

Ephesians 5:31 (NKJV):  "For this reason a man shall leave his mother and father and be joined to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh."

There are three cords in a marriage.  A man, a woman, and God.  With God, your cord is strong.  Without God, anything can come against you and will cause your marriage to ravel.  God has to be first in your marriage - not just by your wife, not just by your husband, but by you both as a couple.  I implore you to examine your life and determine to change your life to reflect Jesus.  I know I need to let go of some 'rights' that I feel I should have.... and if hubby listens to this message, I'm sure he will see some things in his life as well.  And, I think I will let him watch it.  Why?

Because I want our marriage to be Christ centered.  And, if that means I have to give up my personal rights, then so be it.  As you know, our cord of three has places in it where the cords are barely holding on together.  Not placing blame on me nor on hubby... but we are so centered on 'our' rights that we sometimes forget that God is the Center and He shows us in His Word - the Bible - how we are to live. It isn't about hubby, it isn't about me (although we both want it to be about us individually),  It's about who God is within us, and in our marriage.  And I am going to have to let go of some pride.  And I'm sure he is as well.  

There are still things, after 40+ years of marriage, that we need to work through.  I have fought to be 'me' all these years.  He has fought to control me.  We need to talk about it and we need to forgive.  I need to let go of the pain I've carried all these years.  I need to forgive and quit picking back up the issue and carrying it around with me.  I need to throw it in the furnace and slam the door shut.  Lord, help!  It won't be easy admitting my faults as I see them.  Hubby is good at identifying them in me as well.  Hopefully, we both will see our own faults and confess them and throw them in the furnace and slam that door shut.  I know what I / we need to do.... but I'm afraid.  Of what?  Of losing me.  Unless you know me (and most of you know my struggles and innermost thoughts) completely, you know what I am saying.  Lord, help me be like Jesus.  

What about you?  Are you still trying to be in control of your life?  Still trying to be the 'tough cord' in the three cords?  Why not step back and let God be the Cord that binds you together with your spouse in covenant?  Most of us repeated the vows of 'for better, for worse, in sickness, and in health, in richer, in poorer....." and I think many of us have gone through nearly all of those phases.  God, in His faithfulness and love, teaches us through each of those phases.  We've gone through them, some many times.  Sometimes it feels like 'worse' won't leave us.  

So let's step back and think what it is that is holding us back from being an equal cord.  Pride? Fear? Ego? Dependence?  Anger? Unforgiveness? Bitterness?  Whatever it is.... pause and ask God to remove that from you, and resolve today to be the man or woman that He created you to be, to be joined with your spouse in covenant, and give Him all the praise and all the glory.

May the Lord bless you and keep you, make His face shine upon you, and be gracious to you.  The Lord turn His face toward you, and give you peace.

Blessings!

I was in a deep sleep this morning....

 when my watch started buzzing to tell me it had a 'low battery'.  I kept hitting the button, thinking it was an alarm.  Finally, I looked at it and saw it wasn't that, but the battery.  So - got up and tried to sleep in my chair again, but because I was also listening for hubby, didn't really go back to sleep.  He got up about a half hour later.  It's still early.  I've done my reading and checking my bank and scanned emails... now I'm hoping to write something of value in here, then grab one of my books to read - or write in a journal if a thought persists.  Got a bit of a dull headache from the deep sleep wakeup - but my coffee should caffeine me enough in a few to get rid of it.

The White Christmas program last night was awesome! It's been years since I watched a theater production of anything.  Dinner first, and although our service was lousy.... we gave our order first in our area, and yet our hostess served us last.  But, she must have either been having a bad day or not felt good, for she had no personality and although she would smile when she came to our table, she turned her head and the smile was gone.  There was no 'lilt' to her walk or voice.  But - the dinner was good.  I had a herb chicken with some creamy sauce on top of mashed potatoes.  What really cracked me up?  I got two - yes, two - stalks of asparagus.  I mean, don't most restaurants give you at least 4 asparagus with your meal?  And they were skinny ones at that.  But the salad was good, the dinner was good - and during intermission my daughter and I shared a dark chocolate brownie with a scoop of salted caramel ice cream on top with chocolate drizzled over the brownie - and yes it was so good - but it was a large piece and neither of us could finish it.  Glad we shared.

As for the show - it was really well done.  They did have songs in it that are not in the original show - such as 'Blue Skies' (wasn't that done by Michael Bublé?)  and also the little girl sung a couple songs as well as the general's housekeeper.  But overall, it was a great drama performance and I really did enjoy it.  Great voices and it was all good.  There was something to be done in the lobby afterwards with some of the performers singing, but we didn't get out until 10:15PM I think it was, so we went ahead and left and came home.   I had to sit up for awhile as I was still quite awake (surprisingly) so guess it may have been close to 11PM before I finally went to bed.  Which is why I didn't want to get up this morning, I'm sure!

I think I have mentioned about the fast that we will do in January.  Why is it that I always feel I am the 'lead' in the fast?  Hubby has told me that 'unless you want to watch a movie' (and you know he will ask continuously if I do - but he may surprise me), he is giving up the TV for 21 days for the fast.  No TV for 21 days?  I'm thrilled!  I'd rather grab a book and read!  He also said that 'whatever you decide to do as far as diet, you can do the same for me'.  Now you know with his eating out with his friends is going to cause difficulty, so in order to keep him from breaking the food fast, he and I need to figure out what he is going to do.  I'm flip-flopping between my BBCD (no bread, no beef, no chocolate, no dessert).  You may think that is easy - but it really isn't, because no bread is also no bread products - such as pasta, crackers (and I love my saltine crackers), cornbread, etc..  Or - go with a strict Daniel fast of just fruits and vegetables.  Hubby is a meat person so usually pushes chicken on me.  I'm still praying and thinking about what to do.  Does it really matter even if I fast?  It does to me.  And it doesn't have to be a lot of things.  It just needs to be something I enjoy that I choose to give up for 21 days so that I can focus on God a bit more.  It isn't just giving up the TV and reading everything on my phone.  It isn't just giving up bread and substituting it with something else.  It means giving it up.  Like chocolate and desserts.  It sounds easy.  But then, we still have chocolate EVERYwhere.... and the temptation is grab an M&M and throw in the mouth.  Or take a taste of a pie - even if it is fruit - it is still dessert.  Give it up or don't give it up - it's my choice - but whatever I decide - whether one thing or several - I need to completely give it up for that 21 days.  Just happened to think - you know what would really be hard?  No shopping for 21 days.  I mean Amazon shopping, not food shopping.  Hmmm.  I don't want to set myself up for failure.  LOL  And I do have gift cards I need to use.  Yeah.... I'll stick to food, for it would be a daily reminder of what I am doing and why.  And what would I be fasting and praying for?  For my family.  For my children, grandchildren, great grandchildren.  And I'll leave it there.

John 16:33 (NKJV):  "These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you will have peace.  In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world."

Did you ever realize that just by following Jesus you can have peace in every circumstance?  You truly can!  I know that for a fact, for I have experienced that peace when things have been in turmoil.  When things come at you full force - whether it is someone screaming in your ear or getting in your face or just life trying to flip you over, you can have peace in the midst of all that, if you know Jesus.  I'm not just talking knowing 'about' Him, I'm talking about KNOWING Him.  There is a difference.

For example, I was talking with Ms. Vicky the other night and a few months ago we both had to have repeat mammograms and an ultrasound.  She brought it up how she had had cancer before and had been somewhat concerned it had come back.  (It had not).  She shared she had been somewhat anxious about it.  As I thought back to that time, although I have not had cancer before, I remembered how at peace I was - and I think I wrote about it in here - that I made my mind up that if Jesus wanted to take me home, I was a winner.  If I stayed here on earth, I was still a winner because He was giving me more opportunities to share His love to others and to lead them to Him.  Personally, I was in a win-win situation as far as I was concerned, and I was able to share that with Ms. Vicky.  I am forgiven and redeemed; I belong to Jesus.  Whatever He decides with me, I'm His.  

Can you say that?  Have you turned your life over to Him and asked forgiveness?  Perhaps you aren't ready to take that step and 'change your ways' - whatever they may be - but are you ready to face Jesus and tell Him that you prefer the world over Him?  That you are willing to go to Hell because you won't let go of the things that hold you to this world?  It is a scary thought - and none of us have the time that we think we have.  Yes, I'm healthy and strong for the most part - but anything could happen.  And I know that I need to be ready when that time comes.  I want to be praising Jesus when I take my last breath.  I want to see heaven open for me and Jesus welcoming me Home.  I'm ready to go.

But I really want to declutter my house so that my children don't have to.  Which is why I need to stop and go fix breakfast and then get busy and get some things done this morning - like getting the big tree taken down.  I took down the little tree and moved my weight bench back where it was yesterday morning - and hubby hasn't even noticed (or rather, hasn't said anything about it).  The big tree and all the animals will be removed today.  I also took down all the bows and Christmas things yesterday from the front courtyard.  I brought in the old comforter for the bedroom and although hubby hadn't made the bed yet - I couldn't believe he whined and complained he would have to change the comforter and shams.  I just looked at him and said all I did was put the old ones in the room, when he was ready to change them out, they were there.  What in the world was the big deal?  He hadn't even made the bed yet!  And I'm the one who has to fold up the Christmas ones and put them away!  Geez!  He really does NOT like change - even moreso than me!

Ok - I'm off here - got to go cook breakfast and get dressed and get busy - not necessarily in that order.  May even go use my gift cards this afternoon - JoAnns has a huge sale on their yarn!  LOL  Like I need more yarn?  Of course I do!!  But they have other things too so I don't have to just buy yarn.  But I got to get up out of this chair before I do anything - so with that - 

Blessings!

It just didn't work out....for me.

 I dilly-dallied with the big tree yesterday - and became so frustrated with it - I took it down, stuffed it back in the box and it is now in the back of my car to be taken to Savers.  It is just too big.  I jumped online and found a tree on Amazon that will be delivered on Friday for about $39 and it has lights already on it - albeit optic lights - and it is smaller and thinner.  True, I don't need a tree back there, but I want a tree back there.  As well as the one in the living room.  And.I.Shall.Have.It.  Right?  Had a few more packages arrive yesterday, and I was disappointed one item I thought would be perfect - was not.  I debated on sending it back (which is a pain, as you know) I decided someone else could be the recipient of it.  I rewrote my lists last night and found there are some I don't have anything for yet - well, a few of the grandsons.  I'll figure it out.  Girls are so much easier!

I was exhausted last night so slept sound - until hubby did one of his flip-flops in bed about 4:15AM.  I had turned off my alarm at 4AM as I just didn't want to get up.  I went ahead and got up when he woke me up - and then he slept for another 30 minutes or so.  I have my coffee so I'm good. :-)

I still have my minutes to type from the last board meeting - I've procrastinated very well, haven't I?  And yesterday I got assigned the project of designing a SharePoint site.  I don't know anything about SharePoint, and it took me awhile to find it.  My old boss who retired a couple years ago had me get one created - and they did create it - but then she changed her mind - so it has sat with nothing on it.  NOW my boss wants to start using it, told me what she wants on it, and expects me to have it done within a week or so.  Guess who is going to have to learn how to do SharePoint?  I have a book, which will be helpful, I'm hoping.  So what is priority - the minutes or the SharePoint site?  Yeah - I'll procrastinated too long.  Plus I have a message I need to put together for the 10th and 17th as I'm speaking at two RV parks those dates.  OOOPS.  I do have one started - and I can use the same one at both places - but I do need to get beyond the first page.  I need to bake cookies tonight to take to the potluck tomorrow - but I can work on it while they are baking.  Plus I can devote time this weekend to it.  I just need 4-5 hours to get it done - and I have time.  I only have to give the title and verse this weekend.  

Think I have allowed myself to be overwhelmed with projects I have procrastinated on?  Yep.  I think so too.  But, I will get it all done - I work well under stress.

But I still am taking my day off work tomorrow to go to the Christmas Ideas House with my boss, and then the company Christmas party as well.  I need a play day, right?  But that means I really need to buckle down today and get some things done besides meetings scheduled.

II Peter 3:10-12 (NKJV):  "But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night, in which the heavens will pass away with a great noise, and the elements will melt with fervent heat; both the earth and the elements in it will be burned up.  Therefore, since all these things will be dissolved, what manner of persons ought you to be in holy conduct and godliness, looking for and hastening the coming of the day of God, because of which the heavens will be dissolved, being on fire, and the elements will melt with fervent heat? 

I tell you what, sometimes when standing out in the heat here, we certainly think we are being burned up - but the heat we feel from our sun will be nothing compared to the fervent heat that will come at the end of time.   I can't stand out in this sun very long, but that fervent heat, well, I don't think I want to be a part of it.  I want to be one of the people who will be raptured and taken up with Him.  Don't you?  It is a choice, you know.  I pray you choose rightly.

This room is looking worse every day with packages coming in.  I'll get some packages in the mail by Monday to family back in the Midwest.  That will open up some room.  But I also need to get packages wrapped and under the trees.  Then I can get the boxes out of here.  Some of it is hubby's things so can't take out of the boxes yet.

I love Christmas.  I love celebrating the birth of Jesus, knowing He came to earth to save me and you.  I love acknowledging Him as King.  And I love to make or buy and give gifts to lots of people.  I need to start earlier though, although I am still much earlier than many people.  One year I started in January and was done by December.... and I did start early this year... and I"m still not stressed about Christmas.  Still need to get times sorted out with my children, but am waiting on work details before final arrangements can be made.  And that's ok.

I look forward to having family together with me, even though we do families separate.  We've grown so big that we really have to.  This house is too small to get everyone in it.  But I love having family around and loving on them and serving them and just enjoying them.  That makes Christmas for me.

I need food ideas too - what would they want for their meal?  Breakfast food?  Lunch food?  Dinner food?  I will do whatever they want.  And I have held to my comment of cutting back this Christmas.  It's made it harder to buy for everyone cause I keep seeing things that I know someone else would like - but - I must resist!   I still need ideas for some... but, since I don't see or hear anything... it may be clothes.  Lucky them! :-)

Ok - need to hit the shower before work and my head is hurting still so an ibuprofen is in order as well. I will NOT be sick!  I have too much to do and to get done.  But I enjoy the unwork part of it.  Work, not so much.  Let's party!

Got a question for you this morning - if someone asked you today what you were grateful for - what would you tell them?  Something to think about.

Blessings!

Last day of 'vacation'....sigh....

 As I wandered around here yeterday morning after finishing up my time in here.... I noticed hubby sitting outside, but decided NOT to go out... I started to clear off the bed in here that was still piled with my things from the suitcase.  So I finished emptying the suitcase and got it put away and hubby comes in and sort of admonishes me with a "I thought you would come outside and sit with me because it is so nice out' comment.  I jsut shrugged and said no, I wanted to get some things done and continued working on putting my things away.

I offered to fix him breakfast but he said that was ok, he would fix something so I let that go.  I did sit down with him and ate an English Muffin..... then I got back up and told him I was going shopping.... I had a few things I wanted to get... but nothing specifically.  Going to JoAnn's for sure.... and I did go... and walked out empty-handed.  Didn't even buy yarn - can you believe it?  I still have a lot of yarn (granted most are just one skein of a color) and I am still trying to get it used up.  Slowly, I am... finished yet another baby blanket yesterday.  From there I went to Ross... I did buy a couple Christmas gifts and a couple other things.  On to Hobby Lobby... I bought some material there... still dreaming of making some things.  Then I came back home and crochet'd.  Why do I want to quit work and have this type of boring life?

When hubby left for his workout session I turned on a movie and just got started with the youngest son called; I think he must have been alone and needed someone to talk to.  His wife as at the P-T conference, daughter at work and I'm not sure where the one son was.  We 'talked' about 1/2 hour I'd guess.  I turned the movie back on and my little sister called.  I finally just turned the tv off.  Hubby came back home and started watching his games.  After an hour with my sister I tossed the idea around of cleaning up and going out to eat or fix something here at home.  Didn't want to do either, but finally fixed a steak in the air fryer and cooked tator tots in the oven.  That was dinner last night.  Not even any green vegetables!   I have about ten minutes and I need to get ready to head over for my gym appointment this morning.  I really wanted to go back to sleep this morning, but because of that, had to stay awake.  Next week they go back to 5PM versus 7AM like this morning.

Isaiah 26:4 (NKJV):  "Trust in the LORD forever, for in YAH, the LORD, is everlasting strength."

It's been awhile since I've read Isaiah, but definitely don't remember YAH versus YAHWEH.... interesting.  What do you think that means?  Huh.  Jus tscanning comments on google, it still means LORD, just as YAHWEH does.  I may research that more later, if I don't forget.  I'm running out of time.

Bottom line of that scripture is that we should always trust in the Lord, for in Him, we have everlasting strength.  I know that many times I would have given up.  I am sure that applies to many of you as well.  Life is hard, do you agree?  It seems that in many cases, if something can go wrong, it will - just as in many cases things will go right as well.  But do you trust God no matter what situation happens, whatever comes to you, at you, or against you?

I can honestly say that no matter what - I will trust the Lord in all things.  I may struggle in how I respond to each situation, but I know that I know that I know - the LORD is always in control of all things.  Nothing gets by Him; nothing slips by unexpectedly.  He already knows what is going to happen long before it is even thought to happen!  And He also knows our responses.

And that is why we have grace.  Precious grace.  I know for certain I would be completely lost without His grace - just as you would be.  He forgives me, when I ask Him, and He will forgive you, if you would but pause and ask for His forgiveness and help.  Trust Him forever... for in Him is everlasting strength.

Blessings!

Back to the same o same o... sigh...

 We made it home safely yesterday, and even did a detour to White Castles.  My oldest son had sent me the address before we left as I had mentioned heading there for lunch on the way out. (thank you!)  But, I decided not to jump off track on our way up.  But, on the way back, I had my mind made up.  We were too close to NOT stop and pick up.  And just because I wanted to, I picked up a case for us - and for each of my children.  And it was fun surprising each one.  It's not something I can do often, actually, I don't know when I have ever been able tos surprise them like this.  But, we made our rounds on our way back home.  And it felt so good, it really did.  We ate a couple white castles  as we unloeded the car.  I put several in the refrigerator, meaning to take some to Ms. Diane and Ms. Vicky - but didn't make it last night.  The rest were bagged and put in the freezer.  I discovered before that if I freeze some in a baggie, when we want them, I can take out and thaw - then throw in the microwave for about 30 seconds, I think, and they come out as soft as if I had just bought them.  Yum.

Last night was our usual boring night.  We unpacked, put things away.  Thensince I didn't cook dinner, and we had eaten white Castles.... hubby wanted to check the news - and then, sure enough, the question.  "Want to watch a movie?"  Sigh.   The wifi was so bad at the cabin the movies we did try to watch had constant buffering.  So we ended up watching two movies.  He would have driven me crazy if I hadn't agreed.  I know it sounds petty.... I wasn't tired... but I just wanted quiet.  I'm thinking he may let it stay quiet tonight - after the news.  After all, he does have a lot to catch up on.  He will be busy today - he didn't take his computer and you can just imagine how many hundreds of junk political emails he has in his account.  Plus, if he still plans to go to his Bible study tomorrow morning (hope, hope), he will need to work on his lesson today.

I know I will need to jump on the work computer; saw a couple invoices had been returned and I need to find out why, plus I have over 200 emails I need to filter through.  And I still have today and tomorrow to go!  But I will get them done. Sometime. Maybe this morning, just to keep busy.  Housecleaners come this morning and it will help keep me out of their way.  I do plan to go shopping later to pick up yarn and whatever else I can't live without. I'm actually thinking of going to antique stores and just look.  I have no place to put anything, but I do love to bring back memories of dishes my mother or my granny used.  I still recall the first time I took my daughter to the Brass Armadillo.  With a loud voice she exclaimed "this is an old person's yard sale!"  Yeah, it is.  Treasured memories of some things.  Maybe I'll look for an estate sale or two in this area... sometimes I can find something that I can actually use and keep my memory alive of times that were.

I don't know about hubby, but I did not sleep well last night.  I was still awake at 11PM.... and was awakened durng the night with loud rumblings of thunder... but never heard any rain.  Finally got up at 4AM as usual.  I did sleep some here in my chair this morning - even after he had to come in and talk to me.  Sigh.  The past few months if he wants to talk about something, he will come in and talk... he used to leave me in my quiet time and not interrupt. Now it is just a location where I am sitting now, not noting that I'm reading my Bible or praying...  he doesn't do it every morning, but he has to nearly always ask... 'what time did you get up this morning?' (does it matter?)  He kept me awake last night just from his body heat.  Then we have gone from a 6" foam mattress (which neither of us slept well on) back to our firm mattress, and it was like laying on the ground to me. Whine. I feel stiff and sore this morning.  So yeah, I was trying to go back to sleep this morning and I'm thinking I did, based on the clock.  grumble.

I hear the landscapers out this morning - which is a good thing.  Now to get hubby out to water the plants that haven't been watered all week.  Sigh.  It was too hot to go water yesterday he said - .... and yet, they haven't been watered since we left last Friday.  I'm ready to jerk everything out and throw away and just start over next spring.    I know!  I could go buy some new flowers at Home Depot today and plant flowers too! That would bring me joy.  But I have to do it.... and part of me is afraid that hubby would want us to do it together.... sigh..... some things are meant to be done alone.  Right?

I only have today and tomorrow left of work vacation....  so many things I would like to do.... sure do miss the cooler temperatures from up north.  We really enjoyed sitting ont he back porch, watching the humingbirds zoom (leterally!!) back and forth and through the porch, sitting out watching the rain fall.  The quiet.  Yeah, it was nice.  And here we are now back in the heat and the complaining and the big city.  And life goes on.

Well, I have started my ramblings and have deleted some things.... so guess I'll close this off and get on the day.  At least I don't HAVE to work this morning, but if I can clear emails that would be a good thing.  Need to pick things up off the floor for the cleaners too.   But first, I probably ought to get dressed.... maybe fix a shake for breakfast.    Maybe something will come alive to share tomorrow morning - who knows!

Blessings!

I had time... I was alone...

 so what did I do?  I decided to go shopping!  I left early yesterday after work to attend a grandson's band concert (which was fun!) and had about an hour to 'kill' before needing to even get close to the location.  So I went to Macy's as it was right there after I did my errand.  I went up on the 2nd floor, which I normally don't do.  Found they had more of a 'clearance' section for women's dresses up there.  Nice.  So nice in fact, that I found 3 dresses AND a white blazer, that I actually liked!  I like to think I'm not hard to please - and I'm not, if someone else is buying it for me.  But for me to find something - nah, it usually doesn't happen.  But this time, I found 3 dresses, reasonably priced, and bought them all!  Gasp!  Yes, I actually bought them all!  Even hubby was impressed when I showed him after I got home last night.  Of course I haven't tried them on... but will soon.  They should all fit, though.  It's been a long time since I bought dresses in person (and not online - and that was 3 years ago!) and actually LIKE them!  

I slept good last night, as I was pretty tired.  (So tired, in fact, that while I was doing the training for work, I fell asleep twice!)  I'm thinking hubby didn't sleep that much; afraid that he would keep me awake, and that kept him from sleeping well.  He will tell me about it when I come out of my room this morning.  Maybe we need to make a pack... if he is keeping me awake, I have his permission to climb into this other bed so that we both can sleep.  He just hates for me not to be near him; I'm his security blanket he isn't alone.

Enjoyed the concert; enjoyed being with my son and daughter-in-law, albeit a short time.  They invited me for a late dinner with them, but I knew I needed to get home.  I had some time to relax a bit before heading to bed - and as I said above, I slept well.  Still sleepy this morning though.

Ms. Amy's saga with Cox cable continued yesterday, but I believe is now completely resolved and two of her daughters are next door.  They will be here until Tuesday, when they will head back to Florida.  They have my key to the house as well, as one daughter complained that her key wasn't working on the one door.  If she doesn't remember to give it back before she leaves... well, that takes care of a lot of things.  The daughter, from my understanding, is here to start packing up things, but I am sure she is already overwhelmed and has no clue where to start.  I'll miss Ms. Amy when she is finally gone (looking at first week of June now)... but some days she does take up a lot of my time and energy; and yet, I am not family and not involved in things.  HAH - not family; yesterday in one of the 3-4 calls to me, she said I WAS family.  Heaven help me!  LOL I am not agressive and pushy and demanding... and believe me, when Ms. Amy calls Cox and demands they get out the same day; they are here!  In fact, there were TWO Cox guys there yesterday to get that TV going.  If it was me calling, they'd tell me next week.

Just remembered I have lunch scheduled with a work friend on Friday.  That should be fun.  Haven't seen her since just before Christmas... or was it in January.  Don't remember now.  It will be good to physically see her and have lunch.  I don't actually work with her at all anymore; but we are still friends and touch base periodically.

Yesterday with two bosses gone was kind of quiet for most of the day; hence I worked on some of the trainings.  I think I have 3 left; perhaps 4.  Since I do not do the actual work of the business, a lot of this stuff doesn't mean much to me and I don't know much about it.  So it can be boring to me... and I did fall asleep twice yesterday during the long one.  I still have the 90 minute one left... I may do it first today so that I get it out of the way.  We have to listen to each slide and pay attention as they have an 8-14 quiz at the end and we have to pass with 80%.  There have been some that it took me three tries to get 80% just to pass.  See how interesting those trainings are to me?  If we don't do the trainings; or if we don't pass the quizzes (we can take them over at least 3 times)... we can be terminated.  Yeah, we have no choice.  We have to do them - every single one of us.  And we have until July 10th to do so.  But I'm getting them out of the way so I don't have the last minute stress.  I started out with about 20 I think it was.  Narrowing it down slowly.

I underlined this in a book I'm reading in the mornings.... "We cannot afford to doubt our God-assigned, unique destiny. If we do, we will undermine with hesitancy, fear, or anger all that has been entrusted to us. God wants to redeem, restore, and change your identity so that there is no incident, season, or name from your past left to define you.  Yes, seasons, criticisms, and events can refine you - they have the potential to shape the mettle of your life, but they are not the substance of your life.... God is."   Lisa Bevere in Without Rival.

As the new Christian song by Lauren Daigle says... "I am who You say I am" and not what people say I am.  People see the outside and form their own opinions.... but God sees the inside... and the outside... and He loves each one of us ....ANYWAY.  No one can put a label on you.  God says you are perfect in His eyes.  Maybe a little rough around the edges at times, but you are His.  And He loves you.  

And that's enough for me.  I cannot listen to what others say to me or what they say about me; I know who I am in Christ and as long as I keep my eyes on Him, and listen to His voice, I am right where I should be.  I.am.enough.  and so is He.

Blessings!

Waking up is so hard to do...

 Yep - it has again been one of 'those mornings' in which I cannot stay awake.  We did go to bed around 9:30PM - and I did get up about 4:15AM... but the body just would not stay awake.  I fell asleep several tiems reading my Bible.. then purposely, and here I am trying to type in here - and see that the time is after 6AM so I must stay awake and get this finished.  I think I am really needing a vacation... but the problem with that is ... if I sleep late...  ah... never mind.  Memorial Day is my next 'holiday' off.

This week (I hope) should be fairly light.  My favorite boss is speaking at a conference today and tomorrow; then she is flying to NJ to bury her father's ashes (from January's celebration of life).  So she will be out all week.  My other big boss is working today, but then is off the rest of the week.  Another person I support is off today, but back tomorrow.  That leaves one person... for today.  Maybe I can sneak a nap in?  Hopefully no one will give me a task I don't really want to do.

Church was good yesterday and then we ran over to the daughter's for burgers and chips for lunch.  Didn't stay long; came home and Ms. Vicky text'd and asked if I could sew a strap back on to her swimming suit - so i went over there and visited for a little bit.  While there, Ms. Amy called and said that she plans to call Cox first thing this morning to get them out here to fix that TV.  Her daughters arrive tomorrow sometime.  I haven't been over to see Ms. Diane for a few weeks; probably should try to get over there tonight and visit for a bit.  

Finally made it over to Nordstrum Rack on Saturday to use up the gift card my one boss had given me for admin professional day.  He and his wife may shop at those places, but I don't... and once I was in there, I knew why.  Yeah... I know it is probably worth it and if I bought the material and made it, would probably spend as much... BUT....  this is why I wear a lot of t-shirts...  don't remember what the 'originial price' was, but sleeveless blouses - I ended up getting three and a  pair of shorts - all were $24.99 EACH.  Can you even imagine?!  I can get the same thing at Wallymart (as my son calls it) for less than $10 each as a rule!  Yeah... I'm used to paying less and feeling like I got a bargain.  But, I used the gift card and got some nice tops and a pair of shorts (didn't try on so hope they fit!) for when we go 'out' and I need something nicer than a t-shirt.  Three + years of living in t-shirts and jeans, except for Sundays, I'm too comfortable to wear 'dress shirts' during the week. LOL  Unless I meet my boss... but these are sleeveless, and I always have to take a sweater... yeah... I'm always cold.  But the positive is, I never would have walked in to the store (probably) if I didn't have a gift card and actually, lately I had been telling hubby I ought to stop in and see what was there.  It took me over an hour to find the tops and shorts that I was willing to pay for.  Shoes - I looked at shoes - and they were $79.99!!  Are you kidding me??  And I saw people loading up their carts with things!  I should have followed them to see if they found a clearance table that I hadn't found.  But my mission was accomplished; I did use up the gift card. 

Well, I guess you lucked out today... I've sat here for three minutes and I am drawing a blank as to what to write about.  No scripture has popped into my mind to share.  

Please pray for a granddaughter today... for grace.... 

Blessings!

It's Valentine's Day...

 but isn't EVERY day supposed to be Valentine's Day? I must admit, in spite of all my complaining and grumbling about hubby, he does try to (most days) make me feel valued.  Shocker?  Well, he does.  If I wanted to be really honest.  He irritates the heck out of me sometimes... but still....

I took yesterday off work - and it felt so good to not be on a schedule.  I was determined I was not going to just sit at home.  I didn't tell hubby until I came out of my room, letting him think that I just decided it.  So I showered and got dressed while he got ready to meet up with his friend for breakfast.  Soon he was gone and I was alone.  What did I get done?

I shredded the pork and poured the BBQ sauce in it and left in crockpot to stay hot.  I washed a load of clothes. I swept and mopped the kitchen floor.  And then I decided that I needed to get out of the house before hubby got back home.  So off I went to Sam's club.  I was going to go to Costco, but they didn't open until 10AM and I wasn't going to wait an hour for them to open.  I went up and down aisles and picked up a few things... other than groceries, I bought a new two tier basket holder to put fruit/veggies in.  Didn't realize how tall it was though... so for now, it is setting on the dining room table; with my cabinets it cannot set there.  I have a thought, and will work on it after hubby leaves for his bible study this morning.

After Sam's club I decided to come back home and unload the groceries, which I did.  Hubby said he just got home and was already on his computer.  I put things away, stirred the BBQ pork, and left again.  This time I dropped off some boxes for a granddaughter who will be moving soon, and then hit a new shopping area that I hadn't been to yet.  I kid you not.  I went to 4 stores and found absolutely nothing I wanted to buy.  By this time I was bored with shopping (after all, I do most of mine online) - and I even went to Barnes and Noble and walked out empty-handed!  I came back home and fixed us BBQ pork sandwiches for dinner.  Oh I had bought us Nutrition One shakes earlier - Sugar Free Butterfinger Meal Replacement Shake.  Oh my goodness, they are so good.  Tastes just like a butterfinger!

We watched the news and then hubby turned the TV off (yay!!).  I finished a book I was currently reading and scrolled through my phone and played my WWF games.  Then it was time for bed.  Hubby must have had a rough day.....he was snoring before I even got there!

So that was my extra day off - and in spite of the fact I got little done, it felt good not having any responsibility.  Oh yeah - I forgot to share.... hubby is always checking the temperature and weather ... so I saw a weather clock while at Sam's Club so I bought it for him and told him it was his Valentine's Day gift.  He then brings me a card.  A nice card.

He just doesn't stop.  Inside the card was a blank check made out to my hairdresser.  When I asked why? He said it was for me to get my hair done; whatever I wanted to have done to it, including the tip.  That would have been very thoughtful had I been mentioning I wanted to get my hair colored, or trimmed... but I had not.  I just haven't done much with my hair lately - i.e., have not been curling it - and my hair is so straight it just hangs there.  Obviously, since it bothers him... he thinks I need to get it done.  He would MUCH prefer I get it cut shorter.  MUCH shorter.  Ok - perhaps I'm reading too much in to the check and the offer to pay for getting my hair done.  He said he wanted to do something different by paying for my haircut.  But I don't plan to get one for awhile yet.  I don't have anything going on... and if my hair isn't bothering me, why do I need to go get it done?  I think I had it cut in what - November or December?  It's only grown out a couple inches!  HAH - could that be it?  It has grown out?  Or is it that my silver had grown out even more?  If I don't care, why should he?  If we go anywhere, I do fix it and make it look nice.  It is a nice gesture.... but I always read into anything about my hair because he comments frequently about it.  Always has, and probably always will.  He prefers short hair.  My rebellion keeps it shoulder length at least. LOL

I'm back to work today and although I cleaned out my messages Saturday morning as I had some things I needed to do, I'm back up to 70+ emails.  Oh well.  Most I can delete as I'm just copied on the majority.  When hubby leaves for his Bible study I'll get another load of my clothes in the washer and perhaps move a chair into another room like I want.  

John 13:34-35 (NKJV):  A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another; as i have loved you, that you also love one another. By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another."

I wonder if God knew how hard it would be to love others when He created us?  Since He gave us this verse, or rather commandment, I'm sure He did!  Some people are hard to love!  You know that is a true statement.  We can CARE for them... as I say... but LOVING them?  That is a lot harder!  Most of us know people we care about... but not sure if we can honestly say we love them.  BUT, We are given this new commandment that if we are wanting to be like Jesus and follow in His steps, which is what we are supposed to do..... we are to love others the way we want Him to love us.

That's a hard one, sometimes, you think?  Some people we find easy to love and care for... but others?  Not so much.  But we are told to love them.  We need to find ways to get past the barriers we put up because we don't like an attitude, an action, or just the person themselves... and learn to love them.  Somedays we need to just say in our mind every time a thought of them comes up... "I love that person."  It won't be long that you will begin to believe it.

Perhaps we all should try it more often.  Instead of spending precious energy hating or disliking a person... instead tell yourself "I love .............".  I pray favor upon them, and not evil.  You would be surprised how your day will change, and your attitude.  You may still not LIKE their behavior, but you are being obedient to love them as we want Jesus to love us.

Loving others isn't always easy.  You know a lot of my struggles with different ones.  I often have to verbally tell myself I love them.... and it changes everything.  Try it.  Afterall, today is Valentine's day... a day of 'love'.

Blessings!

Another cup of coffee, please.....

 Yes, thank you.  I WILL have a second cup of coffee this morning.  Flavored, perhaps, since I am more awake than I was when I first started.  I can relax and enjoy this cup, yes?  Hubby has already left for his men's group breakfast so I had to get up and do it myself - which isn't a bad thing.  I have a cup of caramel coffee sitting next to me right now, cooling down, and I will relax and enjoy it. mmmmm the smell is delicious!

I've calculated out my time this morning and I think I have another hour before I need to jump into the shower and get reading for the ladies luncheon today.  Still don't have a clue what I will wear.  The information I have received from the pastor's wife was that it was to be a special occasion, that there was going to be a 'red carpet' for us to walk down and have our photos taken.  Picture this for about the 80 women plus they are expecting to attend.  I jumped online last night to check out for more information.  We were told that an email would go out giving more information as to dress (I guess in the past many have come in jeans as it was just a ladies' gathering), what was planned, etc.  I checked my emails again.... zero, zilch.  No email.  But something else stood out on the website that caught my attention.  Gift exchange.  What?  I hadn't heard about that.  WHAT gift exchange?  How many women go to the website to get information?  I wouldn't have usually, but wanted to know what was going on since I haven't been before.

I text'd one of the women in our 'group' and asked if she knew what it was about. Nope. She hadn't heard anything about it either.  It was never announced, from what we figured.  So then we both had the question.. do we bring a 'gift' for the exchange?  What about all the women who won't?  It will make things awkward.  At first I told my friend no, I wasn't, but she said she would find something to take.... so I thought I would too.  After all, I always overbuy on some thing and have stuck in a drawer.  But I didn't want something that couldn't be used; I didn't want to choose a book (which I love, but how many women read the books I read?); I have a teacup that I hadn't put up on the shelf yet (too late, put it up while my coffee was brewing).... what can I take?  I remembered a small chest I had bought a couple years ago and had planned to put gift cards in it for hubby for an anniversary gift, I think it was.  I never did.  I decided to go with the chest, and I will stop by the drugstore on the way to the luncheon and pick up some candy and fill it up.  If I can find a bag big enough to put it in, then I'm set, right?  It will work.  And if we don't do a gift exchange, I can bring it home and.... well, I may just set it out.  Afterall, it will have candy in it.

Did I mention how much I am enjoying this second cup of coffee....along with the quiet of the morning and I still have about an hour before I need to jump into the shower and get ready?  How I wish I had this every morning!  

If you had to narrow it to one, what emotion would best describe how you feel right now?

I read that question in one of the books I'm reading this morning.  I stopped for a moment to ponder that question.  Hubby is gone. I was still on my first cup of coffee. I am relaxed. I'm warm (bundled up in my blankie).  I have plenty of time for the things I want to do today.  If I had to narrow to one, what emotion would best describe how I feel right now....

My first thought would be peaceful.  Although there are things I could jump up and do at this moment, I am choosing instead to sit here, write in here, and then perhaps read a bit more.  Oh, and sip on my coffee. No one is interrupting me. I could ask Alexa to play some instrumental music, which I do enjoy, but right now I am enjoying the silence of the morning.  No one is here but God and me, as I sit here in my room.  These are the best times.  Never long enough, and it always leaves me hungering for more.

Another emotion, if I really had to dig one out, would be the word 'hunger'.  No, I'm not hungry for food, but hungering to learn more, hungering to dig deeper, hungering to seek more of Jesus.  For some of you, you won't understand that feeling.  I get it.  I've been there.  But when you have once had that hunger for more of Him, you remember that feeling of intense longing to just know more of Him, and to just sit with Him, and as you remember... you get that deep longing, that deep hunger, to feel His Presence, His Peace all around you.

John 14:27 (NKJV):  "Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid."

There is nothing like the peace of God to fall upon you, upon your home, your surroundings, that you are at peace with everyone.

I am thinking this morning (as I have paused here to reflect on things to write about), that I need to sit down and actually write out a list of things I want to get for people for Christmas.  I always like to buy something that is useful, but it isn't possible most of the time because I don't see family that often to know what they may enjoy at this time of their life.  I've gotten the men t-shirts for years - surely they have enough of them and get bored when they see another one.  But what can I do to replace that?  I want them to look forward to coming to open gifts on Christmas.  But what?  

I have found out that one grandson and his fiancee will be here Thanksgiving, and not Christmas, this year.  I've already gotten their gift and have it wrapped.  Will give to them sometime over Thanksgiving while they are here.  Maybe meet up with them for breakfast - but the day after Thanksgiving may be crazy.... but still.... if we go early.  

The day after Thanksgiving we are starting a new tradition, I think.  We have a few single friends who do not have family here in town.  I'm going to cook a Thanksgiving meal and have them over for dinner, sending the leftovers home with them.  Even if they go to someone's house on Thanksgiving day, I'm sure they will enjoy the extra attention.  (Of the three single friends from my work and church and Bible study (we have so far thought of to invite, none have plans for Thanksgiving.... 'it's just another day')  Thinking about inviting our pastor and his wife if they don't have plans... but hubby is concerned if we can find a chair large enough for our pastor.  I think we can figure it out, but.... will see.

I have bought way too many toys for the great grandchildren.  Seriously.  I just got carried away.  I'm not going to give them all to them, I don't think.  Maybe donate to someplace the extras so that other children can have.  I'll have to think about it.  I still have so many to buy for, which is why I'm thinking about creating a list.  Yeah, back to the original comment I made 3 paragraphs ago.  I need to either go out and buy them, or get online and order them.  I want to get done soon cause I also have to wrap.  If I go out, I end up buying MORE things... whereas if I do it online, I generally stick to what I am looking at.  Make sense?  Same with going to the grocery.  I love going online and ordering my groceries.  I spend a lot less than I do if I go to the store and 'remember' that I am low on something and grab a couple cans.  I do need to go get lots more stewed tomatoes for the salsa.  I am going on the assumption that all the grandchildren will want salsa as before.  I did buy a case of quart jars last week while I was out.  But I can't make it until just before Christmas or it will ferment.  Three weeks max and it will start bubbling.  When it does that - just throw it away.  

Well, my time is slipping away from me so guess I will jump in the shower and wash my hair.  Now that I have cut it shorter, I have to dry it and curl it, which takes longer for me to get ready.  But the end result is that I'm beautiful - right? :-)

I pray that your day is full of peace and joy, that you will feel the peace in the midst of any storm, will know His peace as you go through your day.  And may your day be full of His awesome and wonderful....

Blessings!

I did 'that thing' yesterday....

 You all know how much I loved my long hair.  But once I made the decision, I followed through, and I do not regret it.  It was on MY terms, not my being told to.  I didn't tell hubby I was going to get it cut.  He was busy all day yesterday and text'd me about 2:40PM he had just gotten home.  "Where are you?" began the questions.  "Oh, out and and about.  I'll be home about 5PM"  "What are you doing?"  "Can I just say shopping?"  "But Where are you?"  "I'm busy, stop texting."  "But where are you?"  I gave up answering.  I was sitting at the hairdressers.  Question again... "Where are you?"  I finally responded, "I'm busy, I'll be home soon."  When I got home, I got chewed out because I wouldn't tell him specifically where I was.  "I was worried something had happened."  Sigh.  

Then he noticed, and asked.... "Did you do something with your hair?"  I said "Yes, I was getting it cut while you were demanding to know where I was.  I wanted it to be a surprise."  "I like it."  Of course he does.  It's shorter.  But, that's ok.  I like it too.  Shoulder length, in layers.  I've got to learn how to take care of it.... and it means using rollers or curling irons again if it is going to look like anything.  But that's ok, I just have to allow more time for it.  I will miss my long hair, but, I can't get over how much lighter it feels.  Might stop some headaches too.

I was also able to get some things accomplished yesterday and it felt so good.  No one understands how limited I am when hubby is home.  Work limits too, but hubby constantly prevents me from getting things done.  Seriously.  I moved the grandchildren's pictures to the back room; I cleaned out a large portion of my closet and got a bag started for Savers, I replanted a cactus into another pot.  I replanted an aloe plant that had outgrown its pot.  I took the trash out.  I enjoyed my day off so much!

And then I left the house around 11AM and went shopping.  Finished up one of the grandsons.  He asked for clothes and if a grandchild asks for that, you know they really need them.  I also did a run by Sam's Club - and that's always dangerous, but I didn't pick up food as I knew I wasn't planning on going back home before heading to get my hair cut.  I knew if hubby was there, it would be hard to get away without him, even shopping sometimes.  Ended up at Walmart before heading over.  Meant to hit Penney's and Kohl's as I have coupons.... but it didn't happen.  And that's ok.  

Today is going to be somewhat busy too.  I have Needles of Hope this morning and Ms. Amy wants me to pick her up today and bring her to her 'condo' so she can pick up some winter clothes.  And it has gotten warmer.  If she gets someone from the assisted living place, she says she has to pay them, and they don't allow her to look for things; she has to go and get and leave.  So I'm to pick her up around 1PM, and take her back when she is finished.  She text'd me last night to turn the heat on before she came so that it would be warm.  Hubby and I will run over before I go to Needles of Hope, turn the heat on, flush the toilets, and check things to make sure all is ok.  

I've started reading a little book about 20 days of prayer.. it's called Reset by Bob Sorge.  It's a good little book and I'm reading the daily things.  One of the scriptures it hits on today is:

Philippians 3:13-14 (NIV):  "Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus."

I know I have quoted that scripture to you before.  It was interesting how Bob Sorge used it in that we sometimes rehash daily the bad stuff we have done, or we moan over things we have said and what has happened to us.  In reality, we need to confess our sins, make right what we can, and let them go.  Some times in some things, I fail daily.  But when I confess, it wipes it away.  Yes, it may happen frequently at times, but when I confess, I can let it go - and then I am more conscious about it to where I can remind myself NOT to do something.   That can pertain to a lot of things.

Some things we may do may be seem 'bad' to us..... but they may cause another person to look upon you with concern.  Some things we may say and people may look at us with 'what?' in their eyes.  We don't have to live up to others expectations of us, but we do need to live good lives, with our eyes set on Jesus and the examples He gave us on how to live.  Life is hard sometimes and I often find it easier to give in to my moaning and groaning.  (You've heard enough of it on here!) But there is also a lot of hurt and pain and moaning and groaning I don't write about.  Sometimes I will hear His Word of "No, you don't need to share that .... you gave it to Me.... let it go, I'll take care of it." 

Many, many years ago, I received a birthday card from a big brother who had written these words in the card.  "We only know what we hear."  Because a few states separated us, they couldn't 'see' what I was going on.... all they knew was what I shared.  It was in that moment I realized that I had to 'cut the string' and quit sharing a lot of things that I was sharing.  My life was separate from theirs.  I had chosen a different life (which in my case, is a very good thing, although it has been very painful for me) and it was separate from theirs.  I didn't need to whine and complain about how miserable I was.  I needed to stop and look at my life differently.

I've learned that when I 'forget what is in the past' and keep my eyes on Jesus, and walk in His ways, that everything falls into place.  Just like my wanting to retire and hubby refusing to 'let' me.  God has me still working for a reason; whatever it is.  Maybe we have something coming up and we will need my income for it.  Maybe I need it so that I can keep busy rather than deal with hubby every single minute of every hour.  Maybe I need to keep working to keep my sanity.  All very good reasons, for sure.  I will lose total control of my life if I wasn't working, so working is sometimes a good thing, and I need to quit whining about it.  God will allow it to happen when His timing is right.  He sees the big picture and I do not.  I need to wait on His timing, and not make it in mine.

Sometimes that is just what we need to do in our life.  Let go of the things we 'want', and let God take over and allow Him to give us what we want.... in His time.  After all, many times the things we think we want, we no longer want when we do get them.  They don't seem as important; we need to wait on God's timing.  No matter how hard it is to wait.

Let's press on toward the goal to win the prize!  And we do that one day at a time.  Start today!

Blessings!