Home is where the heart is....so I guess if we are with our loved ones we are home. However, if you've ever spent an extended visit in someone else's (your mother's) home, you may realize that it's still not really HOME! All that being said, you can guess that we won't be celebrating a tender NC Christmas. (Can you hear me sobbing....) Instead, we will be here in sunny Florida, enjoying being with my son and daughter in love, but trying to walk on the eggshells of my mothers's moods as we celebrate here in the home of my youth.
I'm trying to keep a good attitude....I'm trying to keep a good attitude...I'm trying........
Christmas is our favorite time of year. We love to decorate and entertain...cooking goodies and listening to our ever growing collection of Christmas CD's (just got James Taylor's new one!) and just enjoying the atmosphere that permeates the season. Unfortunately, since moving to NC in 2004, we have only been able to celebrate Christmas in our home ONE TIME!!! My goal for 2008 is to make sure we are home for Christmas!
Speaking of entertaining, our son and daughter in love had their 2nd annual Christmas Party last night. Fun was had by all! They had a nice spread (including some delicious Chicken Salad Croissant sandwiches made by yours truly - aw come on! You remember them and your mouth is watering just thinking about them!) with sandwiches, chips, candy, cookies, cupcakes, and the Chocolate Fountain with lots of fruit for dipping. Of course the kids were very happy when my brother Jay appeared with a big bag of fluffy marshmallows!!! Under the chocolate falls they went! We won't even begin to comment on the plate of chocolate covered strawberries that someone (not me!!! it was twins-actual identical twins) lost control of. I just remember hearing Duke saying to them "I hate you." as he watched them eat the strawberries. Next thing you know...chocolate on the chair, the dress, the floor.... Oh wait...I wasn't going to comment on that! Speaking of twins, ask Nancy and Robin which twins dressed exactly alike at the party! Those girls are too funny.
We had a Silly Santa gift exchange. The most sought after gifts were scratch off tickets, Bailey's Irish Cream, a bottle of bubbly and...drum roll please...a huge remote control that even Louie could read without his glasses. It was a hilarious time! I was the third person to choose a gift, and Louie was the last. Like any good husband, he got those scratchoff tickets back for me (I chose them first and immediately had them swiped from my grubby little hands!). They were a Poker Hold 'Em type game, and being the Poker enthusiast that I am, I thought at first that I had won $155. Once Louie and his brother John instructed me on what a "Flush" was...I flushed away $150 of my supposed winnings. But hey! I've got $5 to buy another ticket....and who knows what I could win on that one!!
The only thing missing at the party was the McGrew-Kelly clan...we've got to get our acts together. Last year they made the party and we didn't. This year we made the party and they didn't. Hmmmmmm. There is something so wrong with that!
We did make it to church today - the Church at Bradenton - otherwise known as Church of God on 43rd St. They had their adult Christmas program and it was very nice. Made Louie and me teary eyed as we wistfully remembered all the fun of past programs with Mike and Peggy. If I'd have known we'd be here this long, I would have joined their choir as a snowbird!
So, you're asking, is all my Christmas shopping finished??? What? Are you kidding? It would not be Christmas without me running around at the last minute trying to finish up! We may spend Christmas Eve night with Joel and Robin....so I guess I need to get myself in shopping gear and git er done. That way, I might actually get everything wrapped and ready so I can enjoy Christmas Eve, and get to bed before 3am.
Pray for us as we wander through this wonderful season. Know that we are praying for you.
Have yourselves a Merry Little Christmas!
Sunday, December 16, 2007
Tuesday, November 20, 2007
Home for the Holidays
Man oh man would I love to be home for Thanksgiving. Instead, we are still here in Florida. Yes, the weather is beautiful, but having lived here for 40 some years, been there-seen that. I would love to be putting on my coat- complaining about being cold! But, alas and alack, I will slip into my sandals and take my bare toes to Ft. Meade for turkey day.
It will be nice to see the Olivio side of the family. My poor husband has been forced into Frankdom over the years. My son knows his Frank relatives completely, but struggles to remember the names of his Olivio aunts and uncles. For his first 8 years of life, we lived a mile from my parents and they took care of him while I worked. Since moving to NC in 2004, we've returned many times, such as now, and stay right here in the home I grew up in. Communal family living. Oh the joys! I will forever be 16 and unable to do anything right.
Well, it's not all that bad. I do love being able to see my mother and sister and brothers. My mom has some heart problems, and it's hard to say how long she'll be around. Seems like she will live forever, but you just never know. I lost my dad in 2005, 6 weeks after his cancer diagnosis. Life really is short, and moments should be treasured. So, I put up with the stuff I don't like, so that I can have some time that counts. Nothing dramatic, just trips to the thrift store to find cheap clothes, or learning to make a time honored recipe that I know my mom will never write down.
Back to Thanksgiving. We will go to my husband's sister Barbara's house. He has 8 brothers and sisters, and all the family that goes along with that. So different from my little family, now just Mom, my sister and 2 brothers and me - the only married one - bringing my husband and two sons, and now one daughter in law. Oh, and I must include my older son's sister, who is living with them and now a part of our family too. She is 16, and still sweet enough for all of us to love her. She's also the little blond granddaughter my mom always wanted! But I digress. Ft. Meade - Thanksgiving. There will be lots of relatives, lots of food, including the homemade gnocchi made by our immediate family. This recipe was passed down by my hubby's sweet mother. She taught us to make this pasta, and we have carried on the tradition. An Italian Thanksgiving it will again be!
So, as they say, home is where the heart is, so I guess we will be home, but part of us will be in NC- as our hearts are missing our familyfriends there. You know who you are! ;)
As I ponder this holiday, I am thankful for my husband, my sons, my daughter in law, my almost daughter, my mom, my sister and brothers, my heart familyfriends in NC, my health, my laid back life, my dog and cat. Most of all, I am thankful that I know my Savior, my Redeemer, my Father God - and that my life is hidden in Christ.
Be Thankful. Happy Thanksgiving.
It will be nice to see the Olivio side of the family. My poor husband has been forced into Frankdom over the years. My son knows his Frank relatives completely, but struggles to remember the names of his Olivio aunts and uncles. For his first 8 years of life, we lived a mile from my parents and they took care of him while I worked. Since moving to NC in 2004, we've returned many times, such as now, and stay right here in the home I grew up in. Communal family living. Oh the joys! I will forever be 16 and unable to do anything right.
Well, it's not all that bad. I do love being able to see my mother and sister and brothers. My mom has some heart problems, and it's hard to say how long she'll be around. Seems like she will live forever, but you just never know. I lost my dad in 2005, 6 weeks after his cancer diagnosis. Life really is short, and moments should be treasured. So, I put up with the stuff I don't like, so that I can have some time that counts. Nothing dramatic, just trips to the thrift store to find cheap clothes, or learning to make a time honored recipe that I know my mom will never write down.
Back to Thanksgiving. We will go to my husband's sister Barbara's house. He has 8 brothers and sisters, and all the family that goes along with that. So different from my little family, now just Mom, my sister and 2 brothers and me - the only married one - bringing my husband and two sons, and now one daughter in law. Oh, and I must include my older son's sister, who is living with them and now a part of our family too. She is 16, and still sweet enough for all of us to love her. She's also the little blond granddaughter my mom always wanted! But I digress. Ft. Meade - Thanksgiving. There will be lots of relatives, lots of food, including the homemade gnocchi made by our immediate family. This recipe was passed down by my hubby's sweet mother. She taught us to make this pasta, and we have carried on the tradition. An Italian Thanksgiving it will again be!
So, as they say, home is where the heart is, so I guess we will be home, but part of us will be in NC- as our hearts are missing our familyfriends there. You know who you are! ;)
As I ponder this holiday, I am thankful for my husband, my sons, my daughter in law, my almost daughter, my mom, my sister and brothers, my heart familyfriends in NC, my health, my laid back life, my dog and cat. Most of all, I am thankful that I know my Savior, my Redeemer, my Father God - and that my life is hidden in Christ.
Be Thankful. Happy Thanksgiving.
Thursday, November 8, 2007
4 months of weight loss
It's been 4 months since I had a Mini Gastric Bypass done. I've lost about 67 lbs and feel great. It's good to by pass the "plus sizes" and head for the regular clothes! Of course most of my shopping is now done at the local thrift stores, since I'm still losing and don't want to invest much in my ever shrinking wardrobe.
I will be 50 in March, and hope to be pretty close to my goal by then. We'll see...I'm expecting my weight loss to slow down some over the next few months. Regardless of whether I'm at my goal, I do know that I will be skinnier than I have been in a loooooooong time. That's the way to enter my 50's!!! I expect this to be a wonderful decade!
I will be 50 in March, and hope to be pretty close to my goal by then. We'll see...I'm expecting my weight loss to slow down some over the next few months. Regardless of whether I'm at my goal, I do know that I will be skinnier than I have been in a loooooooong time. That's the way to enter my 50's!!! I expect this to be a wonderful decade!
Friday, October 19, 2007
Are you happy? I am!
I was watching "the View" today...I know - I know..... but it's on and I'm home! Anyhoo - they were discussing being happy, and the general consensus was that they didn't think anyone was really happy. Especially "religious" people....the guilt trip and all that..don't get too happy or the other shoe will drop. Better to be down and depressed so there are no surprises. Hogwash!
Well, let me say that I am happy. Is my life perfect? Absolutely not. But I am happy. I have an all powerful God who loves me, a Savior who stands beside Him pleading for me - how could I not be happy? Now, happiness is relative I guess (no, you don't get it from your relatives - it's usually the opposite!). Happiness for me is contentedness, knowing that in the end, everything will be made right and whole, no more questions without answers, no tears, no sickness, no death. This makes me happy. My family and friends love me and I love them - this makes me happy. I live in the beautiful mountains of NC that are now turning beautiful yellow, red and orange - this makes me happy. Life is an adventure - this makes me happy. There is just so much to be happy about. Happiness outweighs the circumstances we find ourselves in, if we will let it.
If you are not happy, I hope this doesn't sound like drivel to you. Pray for happiness. I know that the Lord Jesus came to give us life, and life more abundantly....how can that not call for happiness? I pray that if you need some happiness, it will come to you in buckets full! He is faithful and He will do it!
He makes me happy!
Well, let me say that I am happy. Is my life perfect? Absolutely not. But I am happy. I have an all powerful God who loves me, a Savior who stands beside Him pleading for me - how could I not be happy? Now, happiness is relative I guess (no, you don't get it from your relatives - it's usually the opposite!). Happiness for me is contentedness, knowing that in the end, everything will be made right and whole, no more questions without answers, no tears, no sickness, no death. This makes me happy. My family and friends love me and I love them - this makes me happy. I live in the beautiful mountains of NC that are now turning beautiful yellow, red and orange - this makes me happy. Life is an adventure - this makes me happy. There is just so much to be happy about. Happiness outweighs the circumstances we find ourselves in, if we will let it.
If you are not happy, I hope this doesn't sound like drivel to you. Pray for happiness. I know that the Lord Jesus came to give us life, and life more abundantly....how can that not call for happiness? I pray that if you need some happiness, it will come to you in buckets full! He is faithful and He will do it!
He makes me happy!
On the weigh down....
My weight loss journey continues to be wonderful. I've lost 58.5 pounds, so I figure I'm over half way there. My clothes are all too big, except for a few that I save from the last time I was smaller. We'll be heading to Florida for a visit within the next two weeks, so I'm looking forward to some shopping with my mom!
I really have a different view of food now. I've dieted soooo many times, but this time is very different. I still don't eat much, and have to make sure I drink a protein shake every day to get my protein in. There is no way I could do it otherwise! I passed a milestone recently, and my hubby was saying that we needed to celebrate it...however I wanted. Well, I can tell you, before this, I would have been figuring out where to go out to eat, even if I was dieting. But now I don't find food to be celebratory. It's just not that interesting anymore. So I guess I will have to figure out what else we can do. A movie in the theatre would be great!
Speaking of visiting Florida, here we go again. It just seems that right now, that's where the jobs are for Louie. He is looking to change careers, and the Lord may be opening some doors for him, but right now the door is open to Florida. I just hope we'll get a little cool weather while we are there, since we'll be missing it here.
The leaves are changing colors here, and they are beautiful. Since moving here in 2004, this is only the second time we've seen the fall. We saw it in 2004, but then it was late in 2005 so we had already gone to Florida, and then last year we were already in Florida and stayed past the colors. I'm glad to be here this year, so we can appreciate the beautiful fall season, and not JUST have to rake the leaves up!
We're heading to drive the Appalachian Parkway on Sunday with my brother and sister in law, Frank and Sherri. It's supposed to be a nice day, so I'm looking forward to it.
Happy Fall Y'all!!!
I really have a different view of food now. I've dieted soooo many times, but this time is very different. I still don't eat much, and have to make sure I drink a protein shake every day to get my protein in. There is no way I could do it otherwise! I passed a milestone recently, and my hubby was saying that we needed to celebrate it...however I wanted. Well, I can tell you, before this, I would have been figuring out where to go out to eat, even if I was dieting. But now I don't find food to be celebratory. It's just not that interesting anymore. So I guess I will have to figure out what else we can do. A movie in the theatre would be great!
Speaking of visiting Florida, here we go again. It just seems that right now, that's where the jobs are for Louie. He is looking to change careers, and the Lord may be opening some doors for him, but right now the door is open to Florida. I just hope we'll get a little cool weather while we are there, since we'll be missing it here.
The leaves are changing colors here, and they are beautiful. Since moving here in 2004, this is only the second time we've seen the fall. We saw it in 2004, but then it was late in 2005 so we had already gone to Florida, and then last year we were already in Florida and stayed past the colors. I'm glad to be here this year, so we can appreciate the beautiful fall season, and not JUST have to rake the leaves up!
We're heading to drive the Appalachian Parkway on Sunday with my brother and sister in law, Frank and Sherri. It's supposed to be a nice day, so I'm looking forward to it.
Happy Fall Y'all!!!
Saturday, September 1, 2007
On the weigh down....
As I mentioned before, I am on a weight loss journey. So far, I'm pleased with the results - a loss of 37 lbs since 7/5/07. I still have lots to go, but that's ok. I'm learning what I can eat, and what I can't. Scrambled eggs are on my NO list, and as of yesterday, so is cream cheese! Some things just don't want to stay down! Ok, I know, TMI.
I've been changing my cooking habits, since I'm not eating much anymore, and Louie is trying to lose a few pounds himself. Josh also needs to lose, or at least maintain until he hits his growth spurt. So, it's usually chicken or lean meat, and some kind of veggie for dinner. Since Louie works most days, lunch is just Josh and me. I am pleased to say that Josh's french fry habit has been cut back since we've gotten home from Florida. He usually has a "snack wrap" that I make for him, or a hamburger or whatever, but no fries. When I do let him have fries at home, they are just baked potato wedges. Lots less fat. I like to have a little soup or salad for my lunch.
It's funny how much of our lives and social interactions revolve around food. I love to cook, and I love to entertain, so it's always been a big part of our get togethers. Now, I'm looking at food differently, trying to find delicious but nutritious recipes. I like trying new recipes, and its wonderful to find something that all three of us like! If it's a hit for us, it's something I can keep in mind when I am cooking for friends and family.
Speaking of that...gotta find a good Mahi-Mahi recipe for dinner tonight! Abbasynian!
I've been changing my cooking habits, since I'm not eating much anymore, and Louie is trying to lose a few pounds himself. Josh also needs to lose, or at least maintain until he hits his growth spurt. So, it's usually chicken or lean meat, and some kind of veggie for dinner. Since Louie works most days, lunch is just Josh and me. I am pleased to say that Josh's french fry habit has been cut back since we've gotten home from Florida. He usually has a "snack wrap" that I make for him, or a hamburger or whatever, but no fries. When I do let him have fries at home, they are just baked potato wedges. Lots less fat. I like to have a little soup or salad for my lunch.
It's funny how much of our lives and social interactions revolve around food. I love to cook, and I love to entertain, so it's always been a big part of our get togethers. Now, I'm looking at food differently, trying to find delicious but nutritious recipes. I like trying new recipes, and its wonderful to find something that all three of us like! If it's a hit for us, it's something I can keep in mind when I am cooking for friends and family.
Speaking of that...gotta find a good Mahi-Mahi recipe for dinner tonight! Abbasynian!
Tuesday, August 21, 2007
Back Home in the Mountains - take 2
I don't know why my post won't show up, so I'm trying it again!
We've been home since August 5th, and I guess it's time to start blogging again. Did anyone miss me?
As I mentioned in my previous post, I had mini-gastric-bypass surgery on 7/5. I have lost 31 lbs. so far, and I'm thrilled! Gone is my bear-like snoring! I can actually sleep through the night - and Louie can too! I look forward to lots more pounds lost! I'll post some pics when I get Louie to take some new ones.I think we left the door open when we returned from Florida, 'cause it's sure been hot here in the mountains. Of course it's nothing like Florida, and at least we have the cool nights and mornings. Even with the heat, it's so good to be home. The mountains are green and beautiful and there is nothing like being in your own home after a long time away!
Our best friends, Mike and Peggy, have moved to the mountains also and we are so happy. They actually live about an hour from us, but that's better than 11 hours. We've been to see them several times already. We know that the Lord has brought them here, and look forward to the direction He gives them for ministry. Mike has left "full time" ministry as a profession, but that just leaves room for God to open other doors so that Mike and Peggy can both fulfill their calling in new ways!
Our lives are constantly changing and moving in ways we don't expect. That's the hand of God in motion, bending and shaping us into the image He has prepared. My goal is to stay open, flexible, and expectant, with my ears, eyes and heart tuned to Him and His direction. It's exciting to know that the Creator of the Universe has a heart for me, and wants to include me in what He's doing here on our little rock. Glory!
We've been home since August 5th, and I guess it's time to start blogging again. Did anyone miss me?
As I mentioned in my previous post, I had mini-gastric-bypass surgery on 7/5. I have lost 31 lbs. so far, and I'm thrilled! Gone is my bear-like snoring! I can actually sleep through the night - and Louie can too! I look forward to lots more pounds lost! I'll post some pics when I get Louie to take some new ones.I think we left the door open when we returned from Florida, 'cause it's sure been hot here in the mountains. Of course it's nothing like Florida, and at least we have the cool nights and mornings. Even with the heat, it's so good to be home. The mountains are green and beautiful and there is nothing like being in your own home after a long time away!
Our best friends, Mike and Peggy, have moved to the mountains also and we are so happy. They actually live about an hour from us, but that's better than 11 hours. We've been to see them several times already. We know that the Lord has brought them here, and look forward to the direction He gives them for ministry. Mike has left "full time" ministry as a profession, but that just leaves room for God to open other doors so that Mike and Peggy can both fulfill their calling in new ways!
Our lives are constantly changing and moving in ways we don't expect. That's the hand of God in motion, bending and shaping us into the image He has prepared. My goal is to stay open, flexible, and expectant, with my ears, eyes and heart tuned to Him and His direction. It's exciting to know that the Creator of the Universe has a heart for me, and wants to include me in what He's doing here on our little rock. Glory!
Monday, August 20, 2007
Back home in the mountains
We've been home since August 5th, and I guess it's time to start blogging again. Did anyone miss me?
As I mentioned in my previous post, I had mini-gastric-bypass surgery on 7/5. I have lost 31 lbs. so far, and I'm thrilled! Gone is my bear-like snoring! I can actually sleep through the night - and Louie can too! I look forward to lots more pounds lost! I'll post some pics when I get Louie to take some new ones.
I think we left the door open when we returned from Florida, 'cause it's sure been hot here in the mountains. Of course it's nothing like Florida, and at least we have the cool nights and mornings. Even with the heat, it's so good to be home. The mountains are green and beautiful and there is nothing like being in your own home after a long time away!
Our best friends, Mike and Peggy, have moved to the mountains also and we are so happy. They actually live about an hour from us, but that's better than 11 hours. We've been to see them several times already. We know that the Lord has brought them here, and look forward to the direction He gives them for ministry. Mike has left "full time" ministry as a profession, but that just leaves room for God to open other doors so that Mike and Peggy can both fulfill their calling in new ways!
Our lives are constantly changing and moving in ways we don't expect. That's the hand of God in motion, bending and shaping us into the image He has prepared. My goal is to stay open, flexible, and expectant, with my ears, eyes and heart tuned to Him and His direction. It's exciting to know that the Creator of the Universe has a heart for me, and wants to include me in what He's doing here on our little rock. Glory!
As I mentioned in my previous post, I had mini-gastric-bypass surgery on 7/5. I have lost 31 lbs. so far, and I'm thrilled! Gone is my bear-like snoring! I can actually sleep through the night - and Louie can too! I look forward to lots more pounds lost! I'll post some pics when I get Louie to take some new ones.
I think we left the door open when we returned from Florida, 'cause it's sure been hot here in the mountains. Of course it's nothing like Florida, and at least we have the cool nights and mornings. Even with the heat, it's so good to be home. The mountains are green and beautiful and there is nothing like being in your own home after a long time away!
Our best friends, Mike and Peggy, have moved to the mountains also and we are so happy. They actually live about an hour from us, but that's better than 11 hours. We've been to see them several times already. We know that the Lord has brought them here, and look forward to the direction He gives them for ministry. Mike has left "full time" ministry as a profession, but that just leaves room for God to open other doors so that Mike and Peggy can both fulfill their calling in new ways!
Our lives are constantly changing and moving in ways we don't expect. That's the hand of God in motion, bending and shaping us into the image He has prepared. My goal is to stay open, flexible, and expectant, with my ears, eyes and heart tuned to Him and His direction. It's exciting to know that the Creator of the Universe has a heart for me, and wants to include me in what He's doing here on our little rock. Glory!
Wednesday, June 20, 2007
Blog - What Blog???
Well, we left for Florida on 5/31 and I haven't blogged since. So here goes. We were able to sneak into Bradenton and had to hide for 2 days from my older son Joel. He turned 25 on 5/31, and his wife had a surprise birthday party planned for 6/2. Sooooo, we had to make up stories about why our home phone wasn't working, and that we had a job starting Monday, and just didn't know when we would make it down for a summer visit.
Saturday came, and we waited until the surprise party was underway. Joel was thoroughly surprised by everyone waiting at their clubhouse. However, as we were trying to sneak into a parking place, Joel saw us - and took off running toward us! It was priceless!
Joel looks great, having lost over 50 lbs. His wife, Robin, also looks great, having lost over 35 lbs. I am so proud of both of them.
Speaking of losing weight, I am having a Mini-Gastric Bypass on 7/5, and hope to lose (and keep off) this extra weight I've been carrying around my whole life. I am excited, as the results of this surgery are very good. I have been on about every diet imaginable over the years, and could lose some weight, but couldn't keep it off. I want to succeed this time. So, watch for pictures and I hope to show you some great results over the next 2 years!
Florida is hot, but this is a nice visit. Can't wait to get back to the beautiful mountains though!
Saturday came, and we waited until the surprise party was underway. Joel was thoroughly surprised by everyone waiting at their clubhouse. However, as we were trying to sneak into a parking place, Joel saw us - and took off running toward us! It was priceless!
Joel looks great, having lost over 50 lbs. His wife, Robin, also looks great, having lost over 35 lbs. I am so proud of both of them.
Speaking of losing weight, I am having a Mini-Gastric Bypass on 7/5, and hope to lose (and keep off) this extra weight I've been carrying around my whole life. I am excited, as the results of this surgery are very good. I have been on about every diet imaginable over the years, and could lose some weight, but couldn't keep it off. I want to succeed this time. So, watch for pictures and I hope to show you some great results over the next 2 years!
Florida is hot, but this is a nice visit. Can't wait to get back to the beautiful mountains though!
Thursday, May 10, 2007
I'm back...with pictures!
Well...seems like forever ago when I posted about deck staining. We did accomplish the feat and the results are beautiful. I have added a new album of pics to show off our hard work.
So, this weekend is Mom's Day. I am pleased to say that I got a riding lawn mower as my gift! Shocked are you? Well, after mowing this mountain lawn with a push mower for 3 years, I am so thrilled to get a riding lawn mower that I can't stand it! Nothing is flat on this lawn! Now, I just have to learn how NOT to fall off the mountain!
I have also been busy making jewelry. I am participating in a festival this weekend, and hope to sell some of my wares. Being the day before Mother's Day, I should have a bit of business. I am actually trying to wind this jewelry business down. I started making jewelry in 2002 or so, down in Florida. Had a good time selling it...home parties and such. Now, I live in the land of jewelry makers! It's difficult to even get a spot in a local craftshow. So, I've been seeing what I can make out of the bits and pieces I have collected, without buying any new supplies. I am pleasantly surprised at what I've been able to produce.
Now I just have to finish up and get my dining room table cleared off, and the house cleaned, for company starting Sunday....
The whirlwind never stops!
So, this weekend is Mom's Day. I am pleased to say that I got a riding lawn mower as my gift! Shocked are you? Well, after mowing this mountain lawn with a push mower for 3 years, I am so thrilled to get a riding lawn mower that I can't stand it! Nothing is flat on this lawn! Now, I just have to learn how NOT to fall off the mountain!
I have also been busy making jewelry. I am participating in a festival this weekend, and hope to sell some of my wares. Being the day before Mother's Day, I should have a bit of business. I am actually trying to wind this jewelry business down. I started making jewelry in 2002 or so, down in Florida. Had a good time selling it...home parties and such. Now, I live in the land of jewelry makers! It's difficult to even get a spot in a local craftshow. So, I've been seeing what I can make out of the bits and pieces I have collected, without buying any new supplies. I am pleasantly surprised at what I've been able to produce.
Now I just have to finish up and get my dining room table cleared off, and the house cleaned, for company starting Sunday....
The whirlwind never stops!
Friday, April 20, 2007
Deck Staining Time
We've been meaning to stain the deck since, ah, gee, August of 2004 - when we moved in. It's funny what seems to be so urgent at the time, and then life just goes on, and the urgency with it. So, we're finally going to stain it. Now I say IT. But actually there are 2 decks, one small one off our bedroom on the third floor, and the other BIG deck that goes around 3 sides of the house. Doesn't it sound like fun?
Louie pressure washed the house and deck, replaced some bad wood, and now he's sanding down the railings so they will be nice and smooth. Tomorrow morning (early-yuck) we will do the actual staining. I'll post some pictures once we are finished.
When you see the pictures, you will wonder - wow - why didn't they paint the house like they said they were going to? That crazy blue-green color has got to go. Hmmmm. Just another one of those urgent things that got less urgent. The paint is not the best color, but it's still in good condition. So, we'll continue to live with it for now. Funny what you can learn to live with or live without. Like those frenchdoors for my bedroom deck......
Louie pressure washed the house and deck, replaced some bad wood, and now he's sanding down the railings so they will be nice and smooth. Tomorrow morning (early-yuck) we will do the actual staining. I'll post some pictures once we are finished.
When you see the pictures, you will wonder - wow - why didn't they paint the house like they said they were going to? That crazy blue-green color has got to go. Hmmmm. Just another one of those urgent things that got less urgent. The paint is not the best color, but it's still in good condition. So, we'll continue to live with it for now. Funny what you can learn to live with or live without. Like those frenchdoors for my bedroom deck......
Saturday, April 14, 2007
The groundhog lied...
Well, looks like the groundhog lied, since winter has revisited us here. We had snow the night before Easter, and may have somemore in a couple of days. Windows have been closed, and the heat turned back on. Off go the sandals and on go the socks and clogs. Pooh. And all this while Mike, Peggy, Jen and Austin are having fun cruising.
The one thing I am very glad about, is that we DID NOT get our garden planted. Good thing, as we would have worked for naught. After several nights in the low 20's, all the beautiful flowers on the trees are gone, and the sweet, green leaves have withered. I look around my yard, and pray that the willows and other trees and shrubs will regrow their leaves. The apple farmers in Hendersonville have lost most of their crops. Such a shame.
So, about that global warming.......
It could be true, although my thoughts are that it may just be cyclical weather. With all the technology that we now have, it's easy for us to see the polar ice caps melting, and a lot of other things that could not be seen 100 years ago. Who knows if what we are going through now, is just a repeat of something that happened several hundred years ago. We've had weird weather. Look back in history and you will find many strange things caused by or due to "un" natural weather patterns. Even this year is not unique..it snowed on a camping trip we took on April 22, 2005. The only thing different this year, is that we had unseasonably warm weather BEFORE the late freeze. So we have super warm weather and super cold weather. Is is really so strange?
Well, I don't worry about it too much. Someday we will have a new earth, and until then, I'll just stand amazed at what happens in nature and weather. All the earth will sing His praises.
The one thing I am very glad about, is that we DID NOT get our garden planted. Good thing, as we would have worked for naught. After several nights in the low 20's, all the beautiful flowers on the trees are gone, and the sweet, green leaves have withered. I look around my yard, and pray that the willows and other trees and shrubs will regrow their leaves. The apple farmers in Hendersonville have lost most of their crops. Such a shame.
So, about that global warming.......
It could be true, although my thoughts are that it may just be cyclical weather. With all the technology that we now have, it's easy for us to see the polar ice caps melting, and a lot of other things that could not be seen 100 years ago. Who knows if what we are going through now, is just a repeat of something that happened several hundred years ago. We've had weird weather. Look back in history and you will find many strange things caused by or due to "un" natural weather patterns. Even this year is not unique..it snowed on a camping trip we took on April 22, 2005. The only thing different this year, is that we had unseasonably warm weather BEFORE the late freeze. So we have super warm weather and super cold weather. Is is really so strange?
Well, I don't worry about it too much. Someday we will have a new earth, and until then, I'll just stand amazed at what happens in nature and weather. All the earth will sing His praises.
Thursday, April 5, 2007
Church and Community
Churches of today certainly come in all sizes, from the very small home church to the mega church with thousands of members. The church that we now attend has about 250 members, not small, but large enough to not know everyone. The church we were part of for 17 years was larger, but we had many friends that we developed over the years, through choir, home fellowships and the like. In all of that, we had a few friends who were our dearest, our truest, our closest. So, even after we moved, our former church really felt like home - and continued to feel that way for several years, until our closest friends also left for various reasons. Now, there is no "draw" for us there, even though the preaching and music hasn't really changed much, our hearts don't connect like they did before.
Meanwhile, at our current church, we have made some friends, through being involved in music, the tech team, and Bible studies. But we don't feel that connection that we had before. Folks are nice, and we feel loved, but not really known. I guess that's what community is. Being loved and being known.
Community is when friends become family. It is the true church. It involves risking yourself, by being open and honest about the good, bad and the ugly. It means loving someone when they are wonderful and all is well, and loving them when they are in a tragic place. It means being willing to share, and being willing to listen. To encourage and lift up, and to hold accountable. To have fun together, and to cry together. To pray for and with each other. To be available to others, not to be Jesus for them, but to point them to Jesus. To eat together, and drink coffee together, to talk about all the meaningful and meaningless aspects of our daily lives, and to be there for each other, regardless of the circumstances.
I have a community like that. It's really stretched out right now, by miles and house sales, but it is there. I am blessed to have people in my life who love me inspite of who I am in me, and because of who I am in Christ. And I am blessed to be able to love them in return.
My dream is that this community will come together logistically closer, and closer in spirit and heart. The early church is our example, meeting together daily, for worship, prayer, songs and hymns and spiritual songs, fellowship and food. And when they did so, they grew, and they changed the world. I want to change the world that I am a part of, and I know that I can't do it on my own. But with the Lord, and my community, no telling what can happen.
So, right now, I will continue to be an active part of my stretched out community. Praying fervently, bringing encouragement, feeding my friends both spiritually and physically! Being family...being the church.
Meanwhile, at our current church, we have made some friends, through being involved in music, the tech team, and Bible studies. But we don't feel that connection that we had before. Folks are nice, and we feel loved, but not really known. I guess that's what community is. Being loved and being known.
Community is when friends become family. It is the true church. It involves risking yourself, by being open and honest about the good, bad and the ugly. It means loving someone when they are wonderful and all is well, and loving them when they are in a tragic place. It means being willing to share, and being willing to listen. To encourage and lift up, and to hold accountable. To have fun together, and to cry together. To pray for and with each other. To be available to others, not to be Jesus for them, but to point them to Jesus. To eat together, and drink coffee together, to talk about all the meaningful and meaningless aspects of our daily lives, and to be there for each other, regardless of the circumstances.
I have a community like that. It's really stretched out right now, by miles and house sales, but it is there. I am blessed to have people in my life who love me inspite of who I am in me, and because of who I am in Christ. And I am blessed to be able to love them in return.
My dream is that this community will come together logistically closer, and closer in spirit and heart. The early church is our example, meeting together daily, for worship, prayer, songs and hymns and spiritual songs, fellowship and food. And when they did so, they grew, and they changed the world. I want to change the world that I am a part of, and I know that I can't do it on my own. But with the Lord, and my community, no telling what can happen.
So, right now, I will continue to be an active part of my stretched out community. Praying fervently, bringing encouragement, feeding my friends both spiritually and physically! Being family...being the church.
Saturday, March 31, 2007
What's your Big Dream?
I watched part of a TV show the other night...Donny Osmond was hosting, and it has to do with people pleading with the audience to vote for them to grant their biggest dream. The premise is not bad, as I believe that everyone should have a dream, but the show was really rather hokey.
Anyway, it got me thinking about my Big Dream again.
Before moving to NC in the summer of '04, Louie and I read The Dream Giver, by Bruce Wilkinson. It's about a little Nobody named Ordinary who lives in the Land of Familiar....and he has a Big Dream. It tells him that he , a Nobody, was made to be a Somebody and destined to achieve Great Things. This book changed our lives.
We get rather content in our lives, and often get so involved in the routine that we don't even remember that we have a Big Dream. For us, the Dream involved leaving our Land of Familiar- our forever home of Florida, and moving to our Land of Promise - North Carolina. It was frightening, fun, heartbreaking, lonely, exciting and fulfulling. That was almost 3 years ago!
In that 3 years, we've bought a home, Louie has re-established his business, I've homeschooled Josh for 2nd, 3rd and now 4th grades and we've gotten involved in a new church. But somehow in doing so....I think our Big Dream is still unfinished. Or maybe our Land of Promise has become a Land of Familiar!
When we decided to move to NC, the decision was based on how we felt when we visited the mountains. Refreshed, renewed, replenished. Our hope was that we could have a home here that would allow us room for guests who needed a break. From ministry, work, or just life. And that they could come to our home and find a haven and refuge from the everyday. Thankfully, our home has room for visitors, and we've had them...and it's been great! However, most of the time it's been friends and relatives on vacation - so that means lots of running around, seeing the sights and doing all the mountain things. Not a bad time - but not always refreshing and renewing!
The best times of renewing have been those evenings of just sitting on the deck, watching the sunset and then seeing the fireflies come out as it gets dark. We keep some lidded jars on the deck table, so the kids (and kids at heart) can run around and catch a few of those glowing bugs. Meanwhile, on the deck, the conversation flows, and relaxation takes place. Heaven!
So, in all of that, I guess I'm just thinking about our Big Dream again. Our friends, Mike and Peggy McGrew, are in a transition period. Part of our Big Dream was that they, too would come to the mountains to live. For a long time, it began to look like they wouldn't be moving to the mountains, at least not any time in the near future. So, we figured maybe they weren't to be a part of our Big Dream. It made us sad.
While we've been here without them, we've been able to establish a sweet friendship with Peggy's sister Dana and her husband John, who live just north of us. But, between us and John and Dana....no telling who wanted Mike and Peggy here more! I guess we all prayed so hard for them to come, that the Lord decided to answer our prayer. What a whirlwind their lives have become! After a year of much change, they will be moving here soon! Just need to sell their condo and up they will come, bringing their daughter Jen and grandson Austin, too...and Grandmommy Joan. (It could only be better if my mom and sister Katy would move up!)
I know that already, Mike and Peggy and Jen have been through so much in this change in their lives, and there will be many more changes. But God has his hand on them, and he will walk them through the ups and downs of it all. I know that they are anxious to be here, and to get started on their new Big Dream!
In knowing that they are coming, it has made me reexamine my Big Dream...and I want it to be even Bigger than my original! I don't know what the Lord has planned, but I know that I want to be involved in whatever it is. I would love to see all of us - Louie, Josh and me, Mike and Peggy and Jen, John and Dana - all involved in community - living out our lives as ministry. In what way this will happen, I don't know. But I do know that we all love each other, and we love the Lord, and we are seeking Him. And if we seek Him, He will make our Big Dream known to us....we can't miss it, because He is the Dream Giver.
Anyway, it got me thinking about my Big Dream again.
Before moving to NC in the summer of '04, Louie and I read The Dream Giver, by Bruce Wilkinson. It's about a little Nobody named Ordinary who lives in the Land of Familiar....and he has a Big Dream. It tells him that he , a Nobody, was made to be a Somebody and destined to achieve Great Things. This book changed our lives.
We get rather content in our lives, and often get so involved in the routine that we don't even remember that we have a Big Dream. For us, the Dream involved leaving our Land of Familiar- our forever home of Florida, and moving to our Land of Promise - North Carolina. It was frightening, fun, heartbreaking, lonely, exciting and fulfulling. That was almost 3 years ago!
In that 3 years, we've bought a home, Louie has re-established his business, I've homeschooled Josh for 2nd, 3rd and now 4th grades and we've gotten involved in a new church. But somehow in doing so....I think our Big Dream is still unfinished. Or maybe our Land of Promise has become a Land of Familiar!
When we decided to move to NC, the decision was based on how we felt when we visited the mountains. Refreshed, renewed, replenished. Our hope was that we could have a home here that would allow us room for guests who needed a break. From ministry, work, or just life. And that they could come to our home and find a haven and refuge from the everyday. Thankfully, our home has room for visitors, and we've had them...and it's been great! However, most of the time it's been friends and relatives on vacation - so that means lots of running around, seeing the sights and doing all the mountain things. Not a bad time - but not always refreshing and renewing!
The best times of renewing have been those evenings of just sitting on the deck, watching the sunset and then seeing the fireflies come out as it gets dark. We keep some lidded jars on the deck table, so the kids (and kids at heart) can run around and catch a few of those glowing bugs. Meanwhile, on the deck, the conversation flows, and relaxation takes place. Heaven!
So, in all of that, I guess I'm just thinking about our Big Dream again. Our friends, Mike and Peggy McGrew, are in a transition period. Part of our Big Dream was that they, too would come to the mountains to live. For a long time, it began to look like they wouldn't be moving to the mountains, at least not any time in the near future. So, we figured maybe they weren't to be a part of our Big Dream. It made us sad.
While we've been here without them, we've been able to establish a sweet friendship with Peggy's sister Dana and her husband John, who live just north of us. But, between us and John and Dana....no telling who wanted Mike and Peggy here more! I guess we all prayed so hard for them to come, that the Lord decided to answer our prayer. What a whirlwind their lives have become! After a year of much change, they will be moving here soon! Just need to sell their condo and up they will come, bringing their daughter Jen and grandson Austin, too...and Grandmommy Joan. (It could only be better if my mom and sister Katy would move up!)
I know that already, Mike and Peggy and Jen have been through so much in this change in their lives, and there will be many more changes. But God has his hand on them, and he will walk them through the ups and downs of it all. I know that they are anxious to be here, and to get started on their new Big Dream!
In knowing that they are coming, it has made me reexamine my Big Dream...and I want it to be even Bigger than my original! I don't know what the Lord has planned, but I know that I want to be involved in whatever it is. I would love to see all of us - Louie, Josh and me, Mike and Peggy and Jen, John and Dana - all involved in community - living out our lives as ministry. In what way this will happen, I don't know. But I do know that we all love each other, and we love the Lord, and we are seeking Him. And if we seek Him, He will make our Big Dream known to us....we can't miss it, because He is the Dream Giver.
Thursday, March 29, 2007
New Pictures of Spring
Well, after posting yesterday, I realized some pics would be nice. So, check out the new Spring 2007 album. Unfortunately, I don't have a picture of the beautiful Bradford Pear (we don't have one! Every year we say we're going to get one!) , nor the blazing bright yellow forsythia (who knows how to spell it) bush. Enjoy our yard!
Yesterday was the last meeting for our current Beth Moore Bible study, Jesus the One and Only. Such a sweet group of ladies! Even though I am the baby of the bunch, I am the facilitator. These ladies are really great about sharing real life with each other, and praying together and for each request presented. I am blessed to know and love them. We will start again in May, and just meet for a Beth Moore video each week. We adore her, and are so thankful for the anointing that God has place on her in ministering to women, and in teaching the Word.
I do miss my Peggy....I know you check in! Even though my ladies group is great, there is nothing like having your best friend in person to talk to! So, be encouraged, know that we are praying for God to move quickly in your life to sell that condo and get you up here! Louie and Josh pray too! Mike, Peggy, Jen and Austin are family to us....and Florida is just too far away!
Yesterday was the last meeting for our current Beth Moore Bible study, Jesus the One and Only. Such a sweet group of ladies! Even though I am the baby of the bunch, I am the facilitator. These ladies are really great about sharing real life with each other, and praying together and for each request presented. I am blessed to know and love them. We will start again in May, and just meet for a Beth Moore video each week. We adore her, and are so thankful for the anointing that God has place on her in ministering to women, and in teaching the Word.
I do miss my Peggy....I know you check in! Even though my ladies group is great, there is nothing like having your best friend in person to talk to! So, be encouraged, know that we are praying for God to move quickly in your life to sell that condo and get you up here! Louie and Josh pray too! Mike, Peggy, Jen and Austin are family to us....and Florida is just too far away!
Wednesday, March 28, 2007
Spring has Sprung
Beautiful Spring has taken up residence here again in the mountains. It is always a joy to see everything begin to bloom. So much like our lives, even when everything looks dead, there is growth and new life just waiting to burst forth. All we have to do is wait on the perfect timing of our loving Father.
Louie is home, and we are so happy to have him back. He has tilled up the ground for our garden, and we are just waiting on some plants to be on sale at the garden centers. Can't wait for those fresh veggies and herbs! I'll also be replanting my container gardens on the deck...which we are going to paint, I've been told.
If you haven't experienced Spring in the NC mountains, it is sure worth a trip! Everyone raves about the fall leaves, but the Springtime is so beautiful! First thing we see are the bright yellow daffodils, then some type of little purple flower blooms outside my kitchen window. Then our favorite thing - big white Bradford Pear trees - stunning against the still brown mountains. The light purple blooms on the Japanese Plum trees will soon turn to dark purple leaves. And the Redbud Trees are in bloom with their darker purple flowers. The willow trees are weeping with fresh light green leaves, and the bees are buzzing! One day soon, the mountains will suddenly turn green. It's as if all the trees get together and decide - tomorrow's the day! And overnight it seems that their leaves pop out!
Hope your Spring is in full bloom- both in nature and in your spirit!
Louie is home, and we are so happy to have him back. He has tilled up the ground for our garden, and we are just waiting on some plants to be on sale at the garden centers. Can't wait for those fresh veggies and herbs! I'll also be replanting my container gardens on the deck...which we are going to paint, I've been told.
If you haven't experienced Spring in the NC mountains, it is sure worth a trip! Everyone raves about the fall leaves, but the Springtime is so beautiful! First thing we see are the bright yellow daffodils, then some type of little purple flower blooms outside my kitchen window. Then our favorite thing - big white Bradford Pear trees - stunning against the still brown mountains. The light purple blooms on the Japanese Plum trees will soon turn to dark purple leaves. And the Redbud Trees are in bloom with their darker purple flowers. The willow trees are weeping with fresh light green leaves, and the bees are buzzing! One day soon, the mountains will suddenly turn green. It's as if all the trees get together and decide - tomorrow's the day! And overnight it seems that their leaves pop out!
Hope your Spring is in full bloom- both in nature and in your spirit!
Tuesday, March 13, 2007
Spring time...and missing my husband
Well, it's beginning to look like we might get some Springtime here before long. The daffodils are starting to bloom, and the willow tree is budding. On top of that, the sun is slowly making it's way back to the north, so we are catching some sunset colors. Soon we'll be able to see the full sunset! Funny, I lived in Florida, the land of incredible sunsets, for 46 years, and had to race to the beach to catch one. Now, living here in beautiful NC, I can sit on my deck (or even in my living room!) and see a beautiful sunset each evening for a good portion of the year. Bless the Lord!
So, speaking of NC, and being here, Louie, my loving man, is not. He is still in FL, but looks like he'll be headed home this weekend! Yeah! It's been just Josh and me (and the cat and dog) for a couple of weeks. We really miss him in the evening. He's usually at work during the day, so that's not so different, but the evenings and weekends are not the same without him! We all went to see Wild Hogs this weekend.....but separately...Josh & me, and Louie went with Joel, Robin and some friends. We laughed on the phone afterwards, but it would have been much more fun together!
Speaking of spring... Louie has to get back so he can till up the ground for our garden. Time to get those veggies and herbs growing again. If only weeds didn't grow too!
So, speaking of NC, and being here, Louie, my loving man, is not. He is still in FL, but looks like he'll be headed home this weekend! Yeah! It's been just Josh and me (and the cat and dog) for a couple of weeks. We really miss him in the evening. He's usually at work during the day, so that's not so different, but the evenings and weekends are not the same without him! We all went to see Wild Hogs this weekend.....but separately...Josh & me, and Louie went with Joel, Robin and some friends. We laughed on the phone afterwards, but it would have been much more fun together!
Speaking of spring... Louie has to get back so he can till up the ground for our garden. Time to get those veggies and herbs growing again. If only weeds didn't grow too!
Friday, February 23, 2007
Visiting FL...
Here we are in sunny Florida. A nice break from the cold weather, although its about 60 something at home right now too. Spring is a comin'!
We're staying with my son Joel, and his lovely wife Robin. Joel has a big Hi-Def TV. Wow, there really are some people you don't want to see in hi-def....Randy Jackson, David Letterman, some of the local news anchors....however, Paula Abdul actually looks better in hi-def than on my very regular tv. And, I noticed that Regis and Kelly don't even broadcast in hi-def...hmmmmmm. Josh is also really enjoying playing PS2 on the huge screen, rather than his tiny tv at home. Have fun while you can!
I feel like I'm wasting time right now...there are people I need to see! Alas and alack, they are working! But its Friday, and the weekend is coming, so that will bring more time with friends, and I am looking forward to it.
No great words of wisdom or insight....just passing time waiting on Louie.
Have a great weekend!
We're staying with my son Joel, and his lovely wife Robin. Joel has a big Hi-Def TV. Wow, there really are some people you don't want to see in hi-def....Randy Jackson, David Letterman, some of the local news anchors....however, Paula Abdul actually looks better in hi-def than on my very regular tv. And, I noticed that Regis and Kelly don't even broadcast in hi-def...hmmmmmm. Josh is also really enjoying playing PS2 on the huge screen, rather than his tiny tv at home. Have fun while you can!
I feel like I'm wasting time right now...there are people I need to see! Alas and alack, they are working! But its Friday, and the weekend is coming, so that will bring more time with friends, and I am looking forward to it.
No great words of wisdom or insight....just passing time waiting on Louie.
Have a great weekend!
Saturday, February 10, 2007
Fixing our eyes
I'm looking at life today, and trying to see the unseen. It is so very easy to focus on the seen, what is before us - and so blatantly I must say! We see what is in our own life, and in the lives of those we love. It's so easy to see illness, financial woes, job problems, relationship struggles, slips into sin, dissatisfaction; you name it. On the other hand, we might be focusing on good things - new babies, great marriages, job promotions, new car - house - stuff, paying off a credit card, running a marathon, losing that last 20 lbs! Either way, our focus is easily on what we can see. Here. In our life.
So how do we focus on the unseen? In my heart of hearts, I am a diehard believer in the unseen. I believe that there is a very thin veil separating us from the rest of our eternal life. And, I believe that the unseen is vastly more important than the seen. I guess that's why it makes no sense that most of my focus remains on what I see here (admit it - your's too!)
Faith - another word for focusing on the unseen. I need to continue to develop that muscle. To realize that what I go through here is just a "light and momentary struggle" that Father God is using to perfect me into what it is that I am to eternally be. It's not an easy muscle to develop though. In order to practice perfect faith, I have to let go of whatever it is that I am clinging to, and expect it to be in the complete control of our sovereign God. Unfortunately, I am impatient in my faith, often taking back whatever I have given Him, so I can chew on it - like a dog with a favorite bone. Then, once I've messed with it myself, and it's nice and slimy and I can't do anything with it...I hand it back to Him again. And I do this not just with my struggles, but with the struggles of people I love. I just want to fix things! Where's my magic wand?
So, I'm just pondering. Praying for a way out for a few of my lovies that probably don't see one right now. Letting it go to God. He is good, I know that for sure. He is in control - know that too. So now I'm just gonna focus on what I can't really see, and not fret about what is here staring me in the face. I'm gonna see lives redeemed from the pit, sins forgiven, finances fixed in unimaginable ways, faith restored, bodies healed, direction given, blessings shaken and pressed down - overflowing. Eternity pressing through the veil.
So how do we focus on the unseen? In my heart of hearts, I am a diehard believer in the unseen. I believe that there is a very thin veil separating us from the rest of our eternal life. And, I believe that the unseen is vastly more important than the seen. I guess that's why it makes no sense that most of my focus remains on what I see here (admit it - your's too!)
Faith - another word for focusing on the unseen. I need to continue to develop that muscle. To realize that what I go through here is just a "light and momentary struggle" that Father God is using to perfect me into what it is that I am to eternally be. It's not an easy muscle to develop though. In order to practice perfect faith, I have to let go of whatever it is that I am clinging to, and expect it to be in the complete control of our sovereign God. Unfortunately, I am impatient in my faith, often taking back whatever I have given Him, so I can chew on it - like a dog with a favorite bone. Then, once I've messed with it myself, and it's nice and slimy and I can't do anything with it...I hand it back to Him again. And I do this not just with my struggles, but with the struggles of people I love. I just want to fix things! Where's my magic wand?
So, I'm just pondering. Praying for a way out for a few of my lovies that probably don't see one right now. Letting it go to God. He is good, I know that for sure. He is in control - know that too. So now I'm just gonna focus on what I can't really see, and not fret about what is here staring me in the face. I'm gonna see lives redeemed from the pit, sins forgiven, finances fixed in unimaginable ways, faith restored, bodies healed, direction given, blessings shaken and pressed down - overflowing. Eternity pressing through the veil.
Saturday, February 3, 2007
Superbowl Eve
Well, here it is, the Saturday before Superbowl 2007 (don't even ask me to write the Roman numerals for it) and we are just chillin' (literally - this basement is about 56 degrees and it's about 30 outside) through the day.
We should be on the way to Florida, ready to celebrate Superbowl Sunday with Joel, Robin and whoever else might show up for the party. However, the Dodge place informed us that Louie's truck will not be ready until early next week. (I didn't write about it, but about 3 1/2 weeks ago, his truck caught on fire inside the cab.... almost $9,000 in damages - thank the Lord for full coverage!) So, here we are in Franklin....once again preparing for a lonely little Superbowl party.
Go Colts - may Tony Dungy win!
To all my FL loved ones - enjoy! Eat too much, laugh too much, love on each other too much. See you next week!
We should be on the way to Florida, ready to celebrate Superbowl Sunday with Joel, Robin and whoever else might show up for the party. However, the Dodge place informed us that Louie's truck will not be ready until early next week. (I didn't write about it, but about 3 1/2 weeks ago, his truck caught on fire inside the cab.... almost $9,000 in damages - thank the Lord for full coverage!) So, here we are in Franklin....once again preparing for a lonely little Superbowl party.
Go Colts - may Tony Dungy win!
To all my FL loved ones - enjoy! Eat too much, laugh too much, love on each other too much. See you next week!
Friday, February 2, 2007
Zoey the intrepid snow dog!
Here's my Zoey Girl Dog, getting a lift from Dad. She loves the snow, but we took a long walk and her feet were hurting, so Dad came to the rescue! Check out my album with more pics from the February 1st Snowday!
Sunday, January 21, 2007
The Wild Cat Comes In
Gracie, our wild cat, took a little trip to the vet last week to be spayed and get a rabies shot. She was a very good girl in the crate, which amazed me, as she threw a fit whenever I tried to bring her in the house! I picked her up the next day, and was told she had been in heat. Whew! Glad we went ahead with things. Due to her "condition" we were instructed to keep her in the house for 2 weeks. Ahhhh! She's wild!
Well, I am pleased to say that Gracie is now a happy little house cat. She shows no desire to run back out into the cold (wet) wild. I thought she would be freaked out in the house, but no....it's her new playground. She took right to her litterbox - how did she know what it was? She has only ever used the great outdoor clay of the mountains. But hey - I'm not complaining!
Gracie has also taken right to sleeping in the bed with us. She attacks our moving feet, then just cuddles right up. Now I have a dog AND a cat pushing me out of the bed! Zoey and Gracie have become great friends, although I do think that Zoey is a bit worried that she might lose even the tiniest piece of my heart and attention. I'm glad they get along!
Now the question will be....will she want to go back outside. We really wanted and in and out cat. Outside to catch and eat those little mousekins. I'm hoping she will enjoy returning to the outside for fun and frolic, and come inside when the weather is not so pleasant. Regardless, we love having this sweet fuzzy gray girl in our family.
Well, I am pleased to say that Gracie is now a happy little house cat. She shows no desire to run back out into the cold (wet) wild. I thought she would be freaked out in the house, but no....it's her new playground. She took right to her litterbox - how did she know what it was? She has only ever used the great outdoor clay of the mountains. But hey - I'm not complaining!
Gracie has also taken right to sleeping in the bed with us. She attacks our moving feet, then just cuddles right up. Now I have a dog AND a cat pushing me out of the bed! Zoey and Gracie have become great friends, although I do think that Zoey is a bit worried that she might lose even the tiniest piece of my heart and attention. I'm glad they get along!
Now the question will be....will she want to go back outside. We really wanted and in and out cat. Outside to catch and eat those little mousekins. I'm hoping she will enjoy returning to the outside for fun and frolic, and come inside when the weather is not so pleasant. Regardless, we love having this sweet fuzzy gray girl in our family.
Tuesday, January 9, 2007
Snow Day
We had a nice snow today...it just kept coming...a little of it stuck! Now the fun part will be going into town in the morning, as we are supposed to get somemore tonight.
Thursday, January 4, 2007
Preserving a family tradition
Here I am in the kitchen, peeling some HOT boiled potatoes, in preparation for making some Italian Gnocchi. My husband's mom taught us how to make this delicious potato pasta before she died, and we try to keep the tradition going. We made a huge batch, and had some for Christmas Eve dinner, and for leftovers that week with our son and daughter-in-love. Yum!
Tuesday, January 2, 2007
Parents in Black
Here's our most recent family portrait...taken for our church directory. Man! No one told us the background was black! I love being a floating head! Oh well, it hides those extra pounds!
My resolution to not make resolutions
Once again a new year rolls around, and we give thought to our resolutions for 2007. For the past several years, I have resolved to NOT make any resolutions, as I am not great at keeping them. So instead, I will think of things that I would like to do differently this year.
1. Walk more. I did pretty well with this for a while last year, after receiving a Type II Diabetes diagnosis. However, I did not follow through. So, my goal will be to walk more and more often.
2. Eat right. Ditto for the above. I just love to eat, okay? And I love to cook! So, I guess this year my goal will be to try to make delicious dishes that don't over do it! ooooh...sounds like a cookbook title!
3. Pray more. We all pray when we feel we are at last resorts. Prayer should always be our FIRST resort. If we really believe what we say we believe...then prayer is the way to go. I want God to really show Himself to me this year....really WOW me. So, I need to pray, and spend a lot of time listening, too!
4. Stretch. I want to stretch myself in lots of ways...physically, mentally, spiritually; in giving, in reaching out, in loving, in being real; in my gifts, in my crafts, in all that I do. Lots to work on there.
Okay. That's enough. If I even attempt all these areas, I will be doing well in 2007. How about you?
1. Walk more. I did pretty well with this for a while last year, after receiving a Type II Diabetes diagnosis. However, I did not follow through. So, my goal will be to walk more and more often.
2. Eat right. Ditto for the above. I just love to eat, okay? And I love to cook! So, I guess this year my goal will be to try to make delicious dishes that don't over do it! ooooh...sounds like a cookbook title!
3. Pray more. We all pray when we feel we are at last resorts. Prayer should always be our FIRST resort. If we really believe what we say we believe...then prayer is the way to go. I want God to really show Himself to me this year....really WOW me. So, I need to pray, and spend a lot of time listening, too!
4. Stretch. I want to stretch myself in lots of ways...physically, mentally, spiritually; in giving, in reaching out, in loving, in being real; in my gifts, in my crafts, in all that I do. Lots to work on there.
Okay. That's enough. If I even attempt all these areas, I will be doing well in 2007. How about you?
The Big Snow of '06
We had a nice snow storm this time last year. Here's a picture on our deck, with Harold, the snowman.
Reflections on 2006
What a year, 2006. While our life in the mountains has remained relatively quiet, this past year has brought major changes in the lives of some of our closest friends. We've seen 20 year jobs disappear in a blink, loved ones die suddenly, babies born and more.
In all this, I know one thing, that God is sovereign, and He is love. There is a plan, and so often we can't see it. Keeps us holding tight to His hand, one step at a time.
So, what will 2007 bring? Hopefully we will see fulfillment of some dreams, the beginnings of other dreams. Maybe Father will give us some insight into why some things have happened, or if not that, He will begin healing up those open wounds so that all will be strong, and ready for whatever He has instore.
I pray that this year we will have....
lots of people to love and time to love them
songs to sing, both old and new, with old friends and new friends
food and fitness (can they actually co-exist?!)
laughter
fun
coffee
good books and movies
revelations divine
passion for the Word
a desire to grow spiritually
freedom to be all that we are in Jesus
In all this, I know one thing, that God is sovereign, and He is love. There is a plan, and so often we can't see it. Keeps us holding tight to His hand, one step at a time.
So, what will 2007 bring? Hopefully we will see fulfillment of some dreams, the beginnings of other dreams. Maybe Father will give us some insight into why some things have happened, or if not that, He will begin healing up those open wounds so that all will be strong, and ready for whatever He has instore.
I pray that this year we will have....
lots of people to love and time to love them
songs to sing, both old and new, with old friends and new friends
food and fitness (can they actually co-exist?!)
laughter
fun
coffee
good books and movies
revelations divine
passion for the Word
a desire to grow spiritually
freedom to be all that we are in Jesus
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