A nice quiet evening....

 As hubby had his meeting with his friend last night, I was alone.  I had debated on doing some errands, then didn't want to. Watch a chick flick?  Naw, didn't want to do that either.  I finally put on a DVD of The Chosen and watched part of season 3.  We never have watched it all the way through so I've been trying to on my DVD player.  We have never figured out how to set up the TV with the DVD player so I had bought a separate one some time ago. We still have so many DVDs that I've stored out in the garage; hopefully the heat has not melted them out there!  Anyway - I have through Season 5 of the Chosen, still waiting for Season 6 to come out.  Yes, a lot of it is fiction, but although I resisted for quite some time to even watching it (because it WAS fiction in the story, although parts of the Bible)... my sister raved about it all the time, and you know how that is an annoyance for me at times.  So I refused to watch it.  We've watched several of the episodes, but never all the way through.  Hubby generally does not want to watch because, well, he just doesn't, who knows the real reason.  Anyway, I decided some time ago to watch all the seasons in order.  (We both watched Season 5 at the show when it first came out).  I'm on Season 3, and I think I am at the end of that disc.  I generally watch them when hubby is gone on Tuesday nights, unless I have something else I need to do. Otherwise, like last night, I put the disc in the DVD player, and grab my crochet.  And it was a good evening.

I have another 8a training this morning.  Morgan could only do mornings this week as her husband works days this week 7a-7p and well, I don't know all the reasons.  None of my business, but she was able to get hubby and I both in twice, and she said that some of her clients she could only get in once.  But she considers us 'nearly family'.  Yesterday we did chest; today I have a HIIT in front of me.  At 8a.  Not sure this body is up to that, but I will give it my best shot.  The relaxation I had last week is quickly fading.  My BP shot back up this morning - actually higher than it's been since before vacation.  I've got to work on getting it back down; I do not want to be prescribed medication.  I take three medications and I do all I can to keep from getting others.  Unfortunately, between work and hubby, I don't know if I can keep the BP down, but why punish me because they both are stressful?  Right?

Yesterday wasn't a bad day.  I did get the last set of minutes completed that I needed to do.  I think today I will work on the decks so that when the prep for the board meetings come, they will be all set.  Sue is down to less than two weeks before retirement.  I really am happy for her; a bit envious, but that's ok. I got the sweetest note from her yesterday in a thank you for the retirement gift I gave her.  We still plan to meet occasionally, and she already has told me to submit PTO for the first Friday in December - we have gone to the Christmas Ideas House for about 10 years now, I'd guess, if not longer.  She always buys our tickets, which are quite expensive to me.  But we meet up and have brunch together, then shop through the house. Always a joy to be with her.  I guess as long as I feel I can drive to Mesa and meet up, we will still go together.

The disc I watched last night on The Chosen - part of it was about Eden, Peter's wife (yes, in the Bible it doesn't talk about her) and she miscarried their baby while Peter was out in the 'two being sent out to preach the gospel) and when Eden finally told him, Peter was furious with Jesus, saying He could have prevented it, after all, Peter was in that 'inner circle' and wasn't there, why didn't Jesus heal Eden that caused this, why why why?  And Peter was angry.  Then the scene went to the feeding of the 5,000 + and Peter was 'rude'; after they brought the 12 full baskets of fish and bread back, he literally threw his down and walked away.  Peter got a boat so the disciples could go across the sea while Jesus went up the mountain to pray.  

And the storm came.  The disciples were doing all they could to stay afloat, and then they thought they saw a ghost walking across the water!  You remember the story, I'm sure.  When Jesus got closer, Peter called out, "Jesus, if it is You, tell me to come to You!"  Well, he used a lot more words in the movie.  Jesus, of course, told Peter to come to him.  The other disciples were telling Peter not to do it, afraid he would drown in the storm.  But Peter got out of the boat and started to walk towards Jesus.... and as we all know the story, Peter took his eyes off Jesus and fell into the water.  

Jesus reached out his hand and rescued Peter, and Peter clung to Jesus and just cried and I can't remember all that he said in the movie, but it was over and over - something like 'don't leave me' or something like that.  I think I want to go back and watch that part again.  Why?  Because that is us, many times.

We have our eyes on Jesus and then something distracts us.... and we fall into the water.  As we flounder about, Jesus has His hand out, reaching for us.  Can you picture it?  Will you grab Jesus' hand and let Him pull you out of the water that threatens to drown you?  

And then Jesus speaks "Peace! Be still!" and the water calms and the boat is now still.  And Peter is still clinging to Jesus, repeating words over and over again.  Broken.  So hurt by life.  So much like us at times.   (Matthew 14:31 "And immediately Jesus stretched out His hand and caught him, and said to him, "O you of little faith, why did you doubt?")

Where is our faith when we are hurting, when things don't go the way that we think they should?  Where is our faith when we think we have faith enough to believe... and what we just knew Jesus would do - He doesn't?  All we can say in those moments is "Increase my faith, O Lord.  Help me to believe."

I've shared in the past when I thought my faith was strong and I believed that Jesus would take care of the situation I was praying about.  But sometimes, that isn't in His Plan.  It does leave us broken, unsure of what we do believe.  But this is what I will tell you.  Even with what faith you have, pray for increase in faith.  Keep your eyes on Jesus, no matter what.  Hardship may come. Pain may come. Sickness and disease may come.  But Keep your eyes on Jesus, for He is the Author and Perfector of your faith.  Jesus is our All in All.  Without Him, we have nothing.  Cling to Him.  Reach for Him.  Hang on for dear life - no matter what comes against you.  Jesus is always there, and He is always for you.  He walks every journey in this life with you.  You are never alone.

And for that I am grateful.  Life is hard at times.  Some of us don't have the 'easy' life others have had. We were all brought up differently.  Pain exists.  But Joy comes in the morning.

Praise Jesus!  He is the only way.  Who are you reaching a hand out to?  With your other hand, reach up for Jesus.

Have a blessed day!

Blessings!

Can I leave again?

 Work yesterday wasn't too bad; I think I have one meeting left to create.  My boss, Sue, and I chatted some. I got caught up on emails.  I visited Ms. Vicky last night. And I'm tired.  All my get up and go I gained from resting, has run away.  Sigh.  

Can anyone tell me why once again I was awake at 1:40a and then only tossed and turned until I finally arose at 4:30a?  I should have gotten up.  But I kept hoping I'd fall asleep.  Different thoughts, and a song, kept coming to my mind.  Never mind about my thoughts; God and I talked about those.... but the song?  Another Forrest Frank song.  His songs are so catchy I find myself running different verses through my mind all throughout the day.  This song?  Your Way's Better.  It has a verse that goes "Your way's better, Jesus, Your way's better!"  And that verse keeps running through my head.  I'm guessing I need to remember that!

https://youtu.be/T1LRsp8qBY0?si=mCt7Vs_MJkIc3Tah

I hope that takes you to it.  I love this song - and many of the songs that Forrest Frank has put out there. I think I've shared that before.  Still true.  

I have an 8a training with Morgan this morning; hubby goes at 8:30a.  Haven't worked out since last Tuesday so I'm guessing that this body is going to resist some.  I have done some push ups, some squats and a few other exercises, but it's not the same.  Need to do more every day to keep my body strong and moving.

Need to straighten things up in here and throughout the house this morning as well.  Our house cleaners are coming today at noon, I think it is scheduled.  I still have gifts and books on the bed in here, not that they do anything with the bed.  Need to make sure everything is up off the floor though so that it can done. Dusting in here? Not much; I have clutter everywhere on the tables.  He does straighten up my table by my chair. But then there is the bathroom I need to clean off, the couch (where all my yarn is), and then the kitchen.  Hubby takes care of his office and his bathroom.  The rest is my responsibility, I guess. Oh well, at least the house smells good afterwards and its clean.

Hubby let me know last night that he doesn't want to lead a life group (that I think I've mentioned previously) because he doesn't want to miss out on our current life group. And I get it. I just want to get back in teaching a class.  I have been toying with getting 4-6 women to meet here on Tuesday evenings (since it's my 'free' night) and do a class.  I mentioned that to hubby so of course he jumped on it that 'Yeah, you should do that!'  That's why I don't share my thoughts with him very often. Well, one of the reasons.  If I mention I want to do it, and he's ok with it, he will 'nag' at me to do it, and then I don't want to do it because he is telling me to do it, even though I wanted to do it in the first place!  Did you follow that line of thinking?  I do like my Tuesday evenings alone.... but I also long to teach a class because it forces me to dive deep into the Word and study, which I have gotten very lazy in (in my opinion) over the past years.  I just feel so isolated and I do want to make new friends.  I long to have someone I can go walking with, go to the gym with, and share with.  I think we all need at least one person we can open up and share our innermost thoughts and give them permission to speak into us.  Hubby has his friend on Tuesday night and this men's group on Friday mornings.  I have Sue, and we will still talk, but it just won't be as often.  I have friends at work, but none that I can really share with, if you know what I mean.  And I'm rambling about this, so I'll hush.  Work just keeps interfering with my life.  But I know that there are some women out there who are also like me, who want to do a short bible study and have women friends and are willing to meet for a couple hours on a Tuesday evening.  I've always shied away from doing just women, but maybe God is moving me in that direction at this time.  We have a women's ministry at church so that is not in my thinking.  I just want to have women who will walk life with me.  Does that make sense?  I think there are women out there who also long for companionship to walk through life. Perhaps they also have to work, kids are grown and gone, and they want to find themselves again.  I'm there, and I'm sure others are too.  Something to pray about, anyway.

And, this will be short today cause it is nearly 7a and I need to get dressed and out the door at 7:30a to head to the gym. Lucky me, in with all the morning traffic.  I've got to get my life straightened out!  

Have an amazing day - be kind to someone; you don't know what they are going through.

Blessings!

Home Sweet Home

 As much as I enjoyed - and needed - the time away from work, from here, from life - it is good to be back. I feel rested and yet, I could have slept more this morning. LOL  Actually, my sleep patterns have not changed much this past week - and would you believe, I slept the entire night without waking up - at least not fully awake as I have in the past.  Got up at 4:30a, and been trying to get back into my routine.  Hubby got up about 5:30a and brought my coffee, which tastes much better than any of the coffee we had elsewhere while we were gone.  Even the coffee I made at the Airbnb.  I guess we are just used to the k-cups and since I told hubby to quit making mine 10 ounces and leave it at 8 ounces, they are perfect.  It's good to be home.

We actually left much earlier than we meant to yesterday, but stopped for breakfast on our way out of town. Had to make a stop in Payson cause those three cups of coffee and water told me I'd never go another hour to get home.   We stopped at a Burger King and I ran in to use the restroom, and because Heloise (remember her?) wrote back in my mama's day, (and I always say 'Mama says') that if we stop to use a restroom, we need to buy something.  So I went to the register to get two value-size drinks.  The young man at the register, bless his heart, said "I'll give you the senior price cause they are the same size".  Should I have been offended?  I just said "thank you" and got the drinks.  It was a safe trip down and I opted not to stop at White Castle... for some reason, they just didn't sound good. Imagine that.  Maybe I was just in a hurry to get home.  We got home and I unpacked.... while hubby immediately turned on the Diamondbacks ballgame for awhile then over to NCIS.   Four days without a TV was more than he could handle, I guess. Around 4-ish we headed over to the youngest son's for a couple birthday parties.  It was good seeing the great-grandchildren and we didn't know they were fixing dinner. We figured it would be pizza or subs, but she fixed spaghetti with meat sauce and it was pretty good.  After cake and a couple hours, we decided to head home. Surprisingly, the TV stayed off.   Hubby was on his phone (and I was for a short while) and I crochet'd some.  8:30 it was time to head to bed as usual.

Back to work this morning.... first thing to do is approve timecards, that I know. I have pretty much kept my emails cleaned up while gone cause I can see them on my phone.  Didn't answer any, but deleted some. I think there are about 28 that I need to look at this morning.  I'll talk to Sue as she will be messaging me about my trip.  All in all it was a good trip and we enjoyed it. It is definitely much hotter here.

Oh - one thing I did notice - on the way UP, we used up nearly 3/4 a tank of gas.  Coming home, we used only 1/4 tank of gas.  It was 34.4 MPH on the way back; I didn't look on the way there.  Interesting, right? We wondered if 1) coming down more than going up and 2) I left the air off until we ran into 94 degree temperature about an hour or so on the way back.  Both probably paid a factor, and a noticeable one. 

I think my computer missed me. I've been fighting it for the last 30 minutes, trying to get it to come up. At first my internet wouldn't connect (thanks, Cox), and got it connected. Then the web page wouldn't come up, my microsoft for work wasn't recognizing me.... finally got it up, had to restart a couple times. Finally was able to get in and approve timecards (very important) and now I can finish this before finishing reviewing the 26 emails that are still showing in my in-box.  I'll get messages soon from some of the admins that I chat with on a fairly regular basis, asking how my vacation was.  

So at the risk of repeating myself to you... vacation was good.  In fact, it was very restful, as it should have been. Boring in some respect as hubby didn't want to go anywhere except out to eat. We discussed it on the way back... NOW he says he would have gone if I had wanted to (thrift shop, antiques, lavendar farm, etc.) but at the time, every time I commented on stopping, he grumbled. Was that a sign he wanted to go with me?  Not if I wanted to enjoy it and hurry through the store!   But all in all, it was a good trip, a good time, restful, and my BP, which I took before we left which was like 137/81 or thereabouts, this morning it was 114/71.  What does that tell you about a few days rest?

2 Corinthians 10:17-18 (ESV):  "Let the one who boasts, boast in the Lord."  For it is not the one who commends himself who is approved, but the one whom the Lord commends.

We all know 'those people' who constantly brag about themselves or what they have been doing.  Sometimes we roll our eyes, because we have our doubts of what they believe is true and what we see is true. Right?  So if we must boast about ourselves, boast about what the Lord has done, not about what  we in our own power have done.  Many times that will backfire on us, right?

I choose to boast in how God takes care of us.  It isn't anything I do, for sure.  God kept my plants alive while we were gone (yes, I do need to get out there and water them today!). He provides every need we have - and even lets us have some of our wants.  He is such a good, good Father!

I know this is short, but I am behind on work this morning and need to start getting through these messages and caught up.  But the good news is, I'm back home, safe and sound.  Got a good night's sleep, feel rested (will see how long that lasts!) and am already thinking of when I can take another day off work!  

Have an amazing day - and be kind to each other.  It might be a blessing to them - and to you - in disguise.

Blessings!

Last morning and heading home...

 And I'm ready.  Since the house host didn't have a manual to show what to do with trash, linens, etc., I text'd him last night and asked.  No individual trash pickup (house is still in a development area) so he sent me a map of where to drop it off at.  Gigi's Pizza trash bin or something like that. I may not go hunting for it and put the bag in the car and take it with us.  As for linens and towels, he said just leave and the cleaning people will take care of it.  Ok, fine.  Why can't I leave the trash? I am sure the others have. But I can't cause I asked. Maybe. 

Dinner last night was DQ chicken strips and turtle pecan blizzard (for me).  We couldn't believe that this DQ opens at 7:00am AND they also serve breakfast!  Including biscuits and sausage gravy for $2.99.  We have cereal and milk so will be eating that for breakfast, but plan to stop at Three Bears Cafe on the way out for lunch.  We are to be out at 11a, but (I'm hoping) we may get out by 10-ish and just head home.  I'm ready to be home.

I'm running out of things to talk about since we don't do anything.  Ms. Vicky text'd me last night that I had an order delivered to her house via UPS.  People just can't read numbers on the wall!  Not a biggie, but I'm going to notify Amazon or the Vendor it was delivered incorrectly.  In fact, I may cancel the subscription order because of it; it's convenient to be delivered, but not necessary.  Besides, I'm trying to cut back on my spending.  Today, anyway. :-)

I did the dishes last night and packed up most of my suitcase.  It won't take long for me to be ready to leave.  Mainly need to pack up my books I have here  in the 'front room'.  Not sure where hubby is with his packing.... he always waits - which is no big deal.  We'll go through the 'did you get all your cords' and things that we go through before we leave. LOL

The weather here has been fabulous.  It was supposed to rain all week, but did not rain the entire time we have been here!  Other than the rain and hail (which did chip my car in a few places) we ran into outside of Payson on the way in, no rain at all.  We've enjoyed sitting out and watching the clouds, reading, crocheting, and just being quiet.  That's the best part of the trip; and hubby didn't complain about being hot! HaHa.  I have THAT to look forward to when we get back in the city!

Hubby just got up and asked why I have two bowls out with the cereal.  Breakfast?  "But aren't we going to Three Bears for breakfast?"  Looks like we are.  I can put the bowls back, pack up the cereal and milk, and take with us.  Not a big deal.  The plus is, he will be ready to leave after we do our quiet time rather than dragging it out until 11a.  He said he just needs to pack his books and put shoes on.  That means he is way ahead of me; I'm still in my jammies - but it is only 5:44a!

But the plus for me is I finally slept all night; only waking one time when I felt/heard hubby getting up for his walk down the hall.  I drank very little water last night so didn't get that urge.  I finally got a good night's sleep, which is good.  We both were surprised about the bed... it has a foam top so we thought neither of us would sleep well as ours is harder at home.  But last night we sure did!  I do have a dull headache but again, think it is my retainer being pulled on and off my teeth.  Annoying. 

Only to sit and think of God, Oh what a joy it is! To think the thought, to breathe the Name - Earth has no higher bliss."    Frederick W. Faber

It has been a good week, in that respect.  I have truly enjoyed sitting out on the porch in the cool of the day and either reading, (started and finished the book The Power of Short Prayers by Jentezen Franklin) or just sitting, looking at the clouds, and talking with God.  It has been peaceful and quiet most of the time.  I have loved no TV on, although hubby still watches and listens to things on his phone and I can hear it through his hearing aids.  I think his hearing is getting worse, even with the hearing aids.  I am constantly having to repeat myself it seems.  But the quiet times have been really nice, sitting outside.  I have missed my quiet time in the mornings when I am alone in the room with the door shut and he only interrupts to bring my coffee in.  After that, I have the time to myself and God. 

When was the last time you spent some time just sitting back and thinking about (and thanking) God and all that you have is a gift from Him?  Everything we have, even our children, are a gift from God.  Our children are on loan to us. They belong to Him. Just as we do.  Grateful that we always have a Father in heaven.

Hubby asked me yesterday if I journal in my computer... and if so, what do I write in a book?  This IS sort of a journal, is it not?  I generally tell all my stories in here. But I write IN a journal my prayers, if I am not speaking them out loud to God.  Sometimes I just want to remain quiet and therefore write them out.  I have journals for several things. One, I take to church and write notes in from the sermons.  Another I take to the doctor offices to get Tom's information down (and now have started writing down mine), I use a journal to write down notes from classes I take. I just about take notes about everything.  

Since I started this first again this morning, I need to jump off and do some reading.  Tomorrow I will be back in sync where I do this last - mainly because I have to get on the computer to finish it with work.   I don't think I would enjoy retirement so much.... it's boring.

It's Sunday!  If you don't go personally to church, listen to a good one on You Tube.  I always will recommend Jentezen Franklin at Free Chapel or John Petri at Reclaim Church.  We will watch our services when we get home as I will probably be driving at that time.

Have an amazing day!

Blessings!

Day 4....and I am ready to go home.

 I told hubby earlier in the year as he was talking about our anniversary getaway that 5 days was too long when nothing is planned.  But, once again, I gave in to him.  So here we are at day 4, and I'm not complaining, just stating facts. I could have pushed on it, but chose not to.  We've gone out to eat. We got gas for the car. We went to the market. What is left to do?  Every time I bring up an antique shop, the grumbling starts, and I just don't want to deal with it. There is a bear shop we have passed a few times and I've mentioned stopping, and again, grumbling.  I am pretty sure - although I could be wrong - that it has to do with walking.  So we have gone out to eat, then come back here.  We've sat outside most of the time, and it's been wonderful, watching the clouds come and go, the birds flying around, breathing decent air, temps in low 70's.  We even wear a sweater!  Hubby forgot his so has been wearing mine while I wear a hoodie.   We sat out until the sun went down yesterday (about 5 or so hours I'd imagine) - and both of us have our face sunburnt!  I finally finished a baby blanket last night. We've read.  And napped. And rested.

But I'm getting antsy and need to be doing something.  I went to bed with a headache last night and still have it this morning. Didn't bring anything but my 'strong stuff' and I'm trying to not take it.  I am pretty sure it is my teeth moving with this retainer that is causing the headaches (but then, it could be hubby too, ya know) but I didn't sleep much last night and finally got up at 3:30a and tried to lay here on the couch - but couldn't sleep so here I am.  Drinking coffee and I made it a bit stronger so am hoping the caffeine will take care of the headache.  Having these plastic retainers are a pain.  I can only leave them in for water - everything else I have to take them out. Meaning, coffee, they are out. Milk or soda, food, snacks, any of that - I have to take them out.  Maybe it is my having to put on and take off that is causing the headache. It has kept me from snacking much - if they are in, I choose not to snack cause it's troublesome to take them out.  They are out now with having coffee here by my side and I'll leave them out until we have breakfast.

We finally made it to the market yesterday and picked up lunchmeat, buns, a couple oranges, cereal and milk.  We finished up our salads last night along with a ham sandwich and chips.  That will save us money - geez, by eating breakfast and lunch - it was costing a lot to eat per day~ and if you know me, I have my limits on spending for food. Buying things to give away - I'll spend it all, but food, naw. We can get by. LOL  And, no, I haven't bought anything because we haven't been anywhere!  So, then, maybe that is a good thing?

I'm concerned about hubby.  Seriously.  It's like he has 'given in' to his inabilities to do things.  I know it was pretty much the same at home, but not as obvious.  He sleeps - a lot. Frequently napping for 30-60 minutes at a time.  He shuffles even more and walks hunched over even more, it seems - or maybe I haven't been watching. He's very careful to hold on to walls when he is climbing stairs or walking. (use his walker? Oh heaven forbid!) It seems all he does is TV, read, eat, sleep. Altho he has not been able to get the TV to work up here and I refuse to contact the host to find out how.  But then, like I said, that's what he does at home, but I'm noticing how much weight he is putting on in the middle as well. As if I have any room to talk.  I don't.  He had to get his Dr. Pepper yesterday.. and no, not the diet Dr. Pepper which (supposedly) has less sugar... he has to have the one with all the sugar in it.  I know that doesn't help.

Wow - with the retainer out, and nearly a full cup of coffee in me, my headache is abating.  Grateful.  I'm hoping (in a way) we don't go anywhere today.  Last night hubby was saying how much he is enjoying our getting away.  In other words, I'm quarantined with him so he isn't alone, and it's much cooler here.  I've decided this is the last year we will go away. His comment back was 'we'll see'.  Sigh. If we aren't going to 'see' anything, or 'do' anything, why ... ok, I'll hush. Anyone else like me?  (erase)

It was weird yesterday morning at 5:30-ish.... the alarm sounded three times (did I mention this yesterday?) and then stopped. I'm 'on guard' for it to go off this morning, but it didn't go of the first morning. It's 5:17a.... will it or won't it?  Nothing I can do if it does. I just hope it also shuts off by itself.

We did see 4 elk walking through the yard yesterday.  I had heard an animal noise and got up to look (we were on the porch) and finally I saw them and tried to get hubby to see them, but by the time he scraped the chair on the porch a few times trying to get up out of the chair, and talking "where are they?", they quickly wandered off.  It looked like one with horns and three without.  The 'king' with his harem?

My son came home from the hospital yesterday. I got 'dinged' he was home, but waited until later to check on him. He said he was tired, and I left it at that. Understandably tired, I'm sure, and it will take a few days to get his strength back.  Any invasion on the body takes its toll and needs to rest to heal. Grateful to God for answered prayers on his behalf.

My sister got her birthday packages (her birthday is Sunday) the past two days. One was full of oatmeal cookies and chocolate... and the one she got yesterday had her gifts in it. She was surprised at some things I sent. And that's the way birthdays are supposed to be, right?  Full of surprises. I know the cookies surprised her!  I called her when I got her thank you text and hubby kept inserting comments while I was trying to talk to her.  I finally turned to him and told him that was the reason I would go into the other room to talk - I don't need his comments! He only hears one side of the conversation (plus he doesn't know what I sent her).  He finally hushed but didn't leave. We didn't talk much since she knew he was still sitting there. But at least she got her gifts early - hers didn't arrive until last Tuesday and it was to be here the Saturday before my birthday! 

James 1:2-4 (ESV)  Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.

None of us count it 'all joy' when we run into trials, do we? I certainly do not.  But perhaps I need to look at some of my trials. Perhaps the trials are there for me to learn some things.  Maybe what hubby is going through is to teach me about compassion, about patience.  I think about some of the things I've had to do for him that he could not do for himself.... and I honestly was surprised that I was able to do it. Maybe being a caregiver would be my next profession if I ever retire?  Which more than likely, won't be anytime soon.   What trial are you in that you feel you are being tested?  I need to be more kind. I need to be more compassionate. This is definitely a trial at times.  At least for me.  I hope when I have difficulties as I age that my children are more compassionate than I have been with hubby at times. 

And with that, I'm getting off here. It's 5:40a and hubby is just getting up; the alarm did not go off at 5:30a like it did yesterday.  Hubby is up, I'll grab another cup of coffee, and get some reading done. Just thought I'd do this first this time. 

Have an amazing day.  Remember that whatever you are going through, learn through it.

Blessings!

And it is now Day Three of vacation....

 What did we do on day two?  We did go out for an early lunch at the restaurant, and decided to pick up a couple chef salads to go to have for dinner last night.  For some reason, the 'girl' didn't hear correctly.  After we had placed the 'to go' order for the chef salads, she came by and asked "dinner salads size"? and I said yes, thinking it would be a good size.  And it was... only it was just a garden salad!  There was a lot of lettuce, some tomatoes and onions and cucumbers and croutons... but only one small container of dressing. Hubby got ranch, I asked for french, and got ranch.  So we did eat most of the salad, but disappointed it wasn't a CHEF salad... so saved some and we will hit the store today sometime and will pick up a bottle of dressing and some lunchmeat and bread... and who knows what else.  We're here until Sunday so can eat a lot of snacks. Just saying.  I should have packed some things from home, but did not - my bad!  Live and learn, right?

Not sure what was going on this morning... I got up about 4:30a as usual and hubby was still asleep.  He got up about 5:30a and was in the bathroom; I'm sitting here on the couch reading my bible, when the alarm goes off with three loud beeps.  Startled, I get up and start looking around, and seeing nothing. It wasn't a door alarm (I don't think), but more like the smoke alarm - but then, no one was cooking; I had only made coffee, and it isn't anywhere near the smoke alarm.  It only did it three loud beeps and then stopped. Have no clue what that was about.

We sat outside on the covered porch for a long while yesterday afternoon; hubby said we were out there over three hours.  I crochet'd and he just sat.  We looked at the clouds coming in, turn dark gray, then moved on. We never did get more rain. At least not here. We have a beautiful view from the porch and it is so relaxing to just sit out there and be quiet.  Yes, we did talk some as well.  In fact, hubby surprised me - a lot - that he was willing to move if we could find a small place with a fenced in back yard and .... named some of the things that I've always said I'd love to have again.  No HOA.  Just something that we could do whatever we wanted to with.  He doesn't think it will ever be possible, but I reminded him that it could be possible at some point.  It was interesting our discussion. Not that I expect it to happen anytime - or even anytime soon.  I've read where it is better for retired people to rent a home versus own one.  Moving is always a dread.  But, on a positive note, we generally get rid of a lot of things!

From what I've heard, my son's (non) surgery went well and I'm grateful to God for answered prayers for him. He may not have thought it was serious but anytime there is invasion of the body, it is serious.  He should get to go home today.  Thank you, Jesus!

Today is our 44th wedding anniversary.  Hubby gave me a very nice card as this trip is our anniversary gift.  I rarely buy a card, but gave him the book A Call to Die by David Nasser - yes, the very one that I am going through a second time.  I told him it was 'deep' but he could work his way through it. I don't know that he will find it as intriguing as I do, but nevertheless, he now has his own copy.  I have purchased several copies to pass out to those I think might find it interesting. It is somewhat 'deep', but it also makes you really think about things - and life.  In one of his other books that I have read, he told the story of a young belligerent man who got the book and never told a soul that he was reading it.... had actually thrown it in the backseat of his car... but eventually picked it up and started reading it - and started changing as he went through the book, turning his life around as he accepted Jesus as Lord.  

Today not much is on the agenda but I have a feeling we will be going out for breakfast.  We had a delicious bowl of chili for lunch yesterday at this Three Bears restaurant...(and where we ordered the salads)... and I saw they had biscuits and gravy.....sausage gravy.... so we may go back this morning for breakfast.... hubby's first words when he walked in here was about how hungry he was.  Salads don't usually fill him up and we only ate about 1/2 of it. I'm not hungry - yet, but it won't take long, I'm sure. Still need to go to the store, and need to get gas too as I'm down to nearly a quarter tank.

Luke 17:11-17 tells the story of ten lepers coming to Jesus and asking Him to heal them.  He tells them to "Go, show yourselves to the priest", and as they went on their way, they were healed.  But only one, who saw that he was healed, ran back to praise and thank Jesus for healing him.  Only one was grateful. Only one returned to give Jesus praise.  

Of those ten lepers who asked Jesus for healing, which one would you be?  Would you be the nine who continued on their way to see the priest and then be reunited with their families and friends..... or would you be the one who returned and bowed before Jesus in humble gratitude for His healing, before you saw the priest, before you went home to your family, before you began to live life again?  Which one would you be?  I hope that I would be the one who returned to thank Jesus.  

Who is worthy to be praised?  Only Jesus.  Who is the high priest in the order of Melchizedek? Only Jesus.  Who gets your praise - whether things go your way or not - who gets your praise?

I've loved these quiet mornings; especially before hubby gets up (we are in the same room to read/pray/write, etc.) and I am alone.  Jesus and I had a good chat this morning before I started my reading. And without having to jump on the work computer (which I totally do not miss), I was able to read several chapters (in the book of Hebrews right now) and read some of the study notes along with it.  Did you know.... naw, you can just read it yourself. LOL

And with that, I'm going to hush and get back to my reading. I'm sure it sounds like we are having a boring time, but if you know me, you know I treasure the quiet and time available just for Jesus ... to sit at His feet and worship.  To rest in His Presence.  Until you have felt that, you have no idea what I'm sharing.  There is nothing like resting at Jesus' feet.  This is why I want to get away so much; I love the time to just 'be' with Jesus. He accepts me just as I am. And He loves me.

And He loves you too.  Take great joy in that.

Have a marvelous day - pause to give thanks in all things....

Blessings!

 

Day Two - Vacation Day

 Yesterday was a good day.  We packed in the morning, then headed over for pedicures @ Tommy's Nails by the 'old' church before heading up north.  Traffic wasn't bad at all.... but ten miles outside of Payson... rain and hail hit!  It was so bad I couldn't see the road so pulled off for about ten minutes to let it lighten up.  We continued on - running in and out of the rain for just about the rest of the way.  We arrived, and the house is very nice, actually.  Kind of skimpy on 'extra comfort'.  For example, they have shampoo and conditioner in the showers, but no bath soap.  I did find a bar of hotel soap in the cabinet, and since neither of us brought any (cause every place we have stayed at before HAD bath stuff!) we will be using the bar of soap.   It definitely will cause us to bring our own things 'in case' it isn't supplied, if we should stay at an Airbnb again.  At least they have a hair dryer. LOL

We did go to the Red Onion to pick up 'to go' for dinner.  Hubby wanted to sit down but I begged him to let us come back.  I'm doing the driving, and I'm not familiar with the area, and this place is on a gravel road that isn't too wide for a driveway.  I just don't want to get lost and run off the road. So he got a chicken sandwich and I got a hamburger (and fried pickles) and we came back here to eat.  We probably won't go back there.... the fried pickles I am pretty sure were only $9 and she charged $12 - and when I asked, she didn't even look at a menu to show me I was wrong, she just said it was $12 and that was it. Disappointed she didn't at least 'prove' me wrong, if you know what I mean.  It ruined us going back there, as far as I am concerned.  I had bought a couple muffins from an unknown bakery (which proved to be awful; I couldn't eat mine, but hubby ate his this morning) and we were to have those for breakfast this morning. I ended up eating a protein bar and will drink one of my premier protein shakes in a bit.  I'm hoping he won't want to go out until about 11-ish and we can grab something to eat at another small cafe. I want to find a grocery store, but all I've seen is a 'market' and pick up lunchmeat, bread, and perhaps miracle whip and pickles.  That can take care of lunch or dinner a couple days.  We can make do; eating out has gotten too expensive; we ate breakfast out (which the pancakes were amazing!!) in town before leaving and that was $50-ish, then the two sandwiches, breaded pickles, and one soda last night was $45 - yeah, it is getting too expensive to eat out.  In my opinion, anyway.

The beds were 'ok'.... it took me a little while to get to sleep, and then hubby woke me at 2-ish as he ran to the bathroom.  Well, not 'ran'.... but shuffled really fast.  Then I really couldn't go back to sleep so spent the remaining hours praying for my boy having some surgery this morning.  He has been on my mind since then so he is definitely prayed over!  So are the surgeons and nurses - and of course my sweet daughter-in-love!  I'm sure she is a bit anxious as well.  I am confident all things will go well.... and we are just waiting for the call or text that says "it's over and it went well'.  Praise the Lord!

I think I have convinced hubby we are getting a dog when we get back.  He doesn't want one and immediately started in about the mess, etc. But, I am not thinking a puppy, but one a few years old.  I'd still like a lab, I think.  No rush to get one, but I want a dog. Why?  Because it will be company for either of us when we are alone.  If someone tried to break in, the dog would warn us - rather warn me...  hubby can't hear much of anything with his hearing aids out - and even with them in, doesn't hear well.  LOL Morgan told me the other day that hubby said something to her that she wasn't talking to him.... she came back with 'you can't hear me so why talk?' - she didn't mean that in a mean way; but he takes his hearing aids out when he works out for the sweat corrodes the battery.  I had bought him aids to help with hearing her, but he doesn't like them, she said.  It brings in all the noise and not just her talking. So he doesn't wear those either.  He just can't hear.  It's just the way it is. 

My head has been hurting for awhile and when I got up I had an ocular migraine going on.  Sure wish I knew what caused those and what could cure them!  I always have pain right between the eyes.  I wonder if they can CT scan that area to see if something is going on.... maybe I'll ask Dr. Mark about that when I go back in September.

We have the door opened here and the air is crisp and cool.  Hubby went out for a short while this morning but came back in... his feet were cold. (Dude, don't go out barefooted!!) (I have my socks on; I don't 'do' cold).  There is a slight breeze too.  They have a wrap around porch on two sides - which is nice.  Hope to sit outside when it gets a little warmer.  Not sure what the temp is here.... ah - it says 62 degrees.... do you remember what that is like?  There are a few clouds, but the sky is blue thus far. I heard it is to rain all week. And that's ok. If I can pick up some food at a market, we won't need to go out much.

Elevation Worship and Chandler Moore have a song out called "God, I'm Just Grateful" and I have had that song coming through my mind this morning.  How can we not be grateful to such an awesome God? 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BNKm_fOS064

Not sure if that will take you to it but the words are amazing.  God, I'm just grateful for You! Who am I that you would keep me on Your mind? God, I'm just grateful for you!  Such an amazing song, and I hope you find it on You Tube and listen to it.  

And.... I'm going to stop here and head to the shower this morning.  Hope that you have an amazing day. Pray for my boy when you think of it.  

Blessings!