I'm Thankful for the Thorns

Remember your Senior Prom.......

2009-05-19T20:55:00.003-05:00

Well, National Nursing Home week was a big hit. I've never been so tired in my life, but it was worth it for the residents. We planned a lot for the week, almost too much, with a Mother's Day Luncheons, a Food Show, an Employee Grill Out and raffle and A Senior Prom.

With all the things we did, my over all favorite, and the most work, was the Senior Prom. Watching the anticipation and excitement build in the residents and even the staff and family members was just awesome.

Not having attended my own school prom, I wanted to make sure I touched all the bases and didn't leave anything out. This was going to be the event of the season!

A few calls and the dresses were being donated by the bunches. Every color, size and style you can imagine. And while the tux rental donations came easy last year, this year was another story due to the recession. No tuxes!! A few more phone calls to the families and the suits and ties were in the bag. Who needs a tux anyway?

And even though we have a weekly beautician come several days, to do the hair of her regulars, this was a special occasion. Everyone who wanted to have their hair or nails done would be on the the schedule. Paul Mitchell beauty school came through beautifully with an instructor and ten student. They spent the day making the resident beautiful, even if they didn't want to attend the prom.

The flowers were ordered and set for delivery. The music, the same as the year before, booked and ready. The local newspaper even set to attend and do pictures. (they haven't run the article yet, but say they are a couple weeks out on delivery - I hope he wasn't pulling my leg). And more volunteers, girls and guys, than we knew what to do with, available to dance and take pictures with the residents or whatever was needed..

On the day of the prom, the staff got really into it too, helping fit the residents with evening gowns and making sure their hair and make up was just so. Even dressing up themselves. You can really tell you work with a great team when everyone comes together and makes sure everyone is involved and having a good time.

It was a lot of work, but well worth it! The room was smaller than we wanted, and some of the families didn't get to attend this year because the prom was held during the day rather than in the evening, but the prom went off without a hitch. Everyone had a wonderful time and we have the pictures to show for it!

So I may not have attend my own prom, but who needs it. This is one of the best proms I have ever been to. And what a way to celebrate our residents. Everyone was sooooo beautiful! Am I ready to do it again tomorrow, no way. But you can count on next year being even better.

Quote for the day: Celebrate today for tomorrow may never come. Besides, look at all the fun you're missing out on.

God Bless. Good Night.

Where does the time go?

2009-05-05T21:16:00.007-05:00

I so totally let April get away from me. And May is well on the way of getting away. They say the older we get the faster the time gets away from us. Funny, I don't feel old, tired sometimes, but not old.

The last full week in April, I got to get away to Florida. Something I have waited almost a year to do. I got to see my best friend Pam and her new home in Land O Lakes. She had foot surgery while I was there. It was nice sitting around, catching up. I spent the day with my sister. I haven't seen her in almost two years. That was sweet too! The only draw back was, one of the reasons I wanted to go to Florida was to spend some time with my brother. I ended up only getting about an hour and a half with him. I feel bad about that. Maybe it was God's way of saying, don't get your hopes up, or leave it alone, he's happy. I can move forward and stop worrying about him. I have missed him so. I do feel better that he is happy. He doesn't like his job much ( he at least has a job) but he gets to spend quality time with his grandchildren and he really seems to enjoy that.

It was a great time but coming back I have to wonder if it was worth it. Getting away, I was promised that the state mandated paper would be picked up where I left it and kept up while I was away. For the record, don't believe everything people tell you. Nothing was done. I'm still not caught up.The days at work are so busy and crazy, they are but a blur when I try to go back and look at the day when I get home.

I've been back for a week and a half and haven't seen the residents yet. Oh, I've seen them, but not really seen them. I want to spend quality time with them but can't seem to get away form the computer. I have weeks of state mandated paper work to catch up on, the monthly calendar, the newsletter, assessments, care plans, signs, birthday list, a Mother's Day luncheon this Saturday, and that's not even the half of it. May is an important month for seniors. It's National Nursing Home Week. Our facility plans lots of great stuff in May in celebration of the elderly. We have a full week of celebration which includes Senior Prom that is well into planning. Everything is crazy now but will be behind me in a week.

I know it seems like I am whining, and maybe I am, but I do love my job. I just don't like the stress of some of my team member not doing their share. I gave three staff members a job to cover a box with with paper and put a sign on it for a ballot box, by the end of the day, so the resident's could use them as voting boxes for a king and queen for our upcoming prom. At the end of the day, no boxes were anywhere to be found after the staff left. I did find one (one!) box. As beautiful as it was, it was only one bax. I need four!

Anyone ever been to a Prom for Senior Citizens. I haven't. I'm looking forward to it. The residents are getting so excited. They have been being fitted with donated prom dresses. I can't wait to see them all dressed up. I have a bunch of volunteers from the local high school football and soccer teams coming to have pictures taken with the residents and maybe even a little wheelchair dancing. I cant wait to join in on the fun.

But first, the Mother's Day Luncheon. That should be really nice and rewarding for the families too. I know, one day at a time.

My quote for the day: "Take life one day at a time, you'll live longer."

Thanks for stopping by and letting me bend your ear.
God Bless and have a good night.

I believe things are look up.....

2009-03-26T22:23:00.002-05:00

Sitting here reading over my last post, I was in quite a slump. I'm happy to report, things are looking up. An ad was placed in the local paper. The responses were overwhelming. Each day I got 20-30 applications for one open position. They were mechanics, accountants, teachers, and a host of others. Not too many had real long term care experience, let alone activity programming experience.

Last week was a blur of long hours and interviews. With the economy what it is, I scheduled 6-8 a day for several days. It didn't take long to weed out the ones that were not appropriate for the position. I felt really bad for several of the people. They needed a job so bad. I can't tell you how many days I came home and thanked the good Lord I had a job.

After second interview of the top two candidates, my boss ask to let him think about them for a while. Thirty-five minutes later, he came to my office and said to hire them both. Something I wasn't expecting. He wanted one of my newest part time guys gone. Said he wasn't catching on quick enough. I got the honors of telling the little guy he didn't have a job anymore. I didn't feel too good about that. I still have one other girl who has been coached and coached and doesn't seem to be improving. If she doesn't step it up soon, she may have to go too. Again, not something I am looking forward to. I hate to see people loose their jobs, especially with the economy the way it is,

On a brighter note, I had two new people ( a girl and a guy) in orientation on Tuesday. The guy has worked two days and I can already see changes, for the better, in our existing team. Seeing the young guy gone may have had something to do with it too. The second new person doesn't start until after the 13th, (she had to give notice at her other job). I believe she will be a positive addition.

Being a five star facility is a lot of work. The boss is always pushing the staff to do better, better, best! And that's not a bad thing. I guess that's the way we became a five star facility. Having high expectation of you staff will yield quality service delivered. And in the end, isn't that's what we are looking for?

So, having had several long weeks of falling behind in the paper work and more interview that I want to do in a year, I believe things are looking up. Having the new people in place and getting them seasoned before our really busy time gets here, is a good thing. We have Easter, mother's day, national nursing home week and a senior prom, all in the next eight week. The additional help, is a true blessing. I believe they will add a lot of great support and assistance in delivering quality programming and service to our seniors.

And in the mist of all that, I did my taxes, or at least they got done. Truth be told, my daughter did them for me. It takes me about 4-5 hours to do the taxes. She being a natural banker, she wipes them out in about 1 1/2 hours, and I don't have to think about them anymore. For the record, if you don't have your taxes done, you only have 20 days. Just what you wanted to hear, right?

Quote of the day:Today is the tomorrow you worried about yesterday.

God Bless. Good Night.

Change is good, right?

2009-03-10T20:32:00.004-05:00

Ever had one of those weeks at work, where the stress is so thick you can cut it with a knife. I'm moving into my second week of one. One of the the part time activity aides, that worked 32 hours, gave notice she could only work every other weekend She's coming to the end of her school and has labs and co-oping. I was really okay with that. I knew it was coming. Then a full time aide on the memory unit, gave notice last Wednesday (not even a full two week notice). She said she wants to begin living her life, not just existing. She wants to do some traveling and maybe open a business with some friends in North Carolina. (I want to do some traveling)

The week ended with the State coming in on a complaint on Friday. We were kinda, sorta, expecting them because of a discharge on a resident with some behavior issues that were harmful to other residents. They ended up finding more than was bargained for. The boss was in a terrible mood all day. Those are the kind of days you really want to hide somewhere.

After a fairly quiet weekend, I was all ready for a calmer, much less stressful week. So far that hasn't happened. Monday was a typical busy, crazy Monday. It ended with a lovely dinner with my daughter and the grands. Today. Today was just tuff! Another girl in my department, called today, (she was scheduled off today), said if the one girl won't be working on the unit, she may want to transfer to another department, where she also has experience. ( In my meeting with the boss, I know this isn't going to happen because he will not ok the transfer.) Knowing the girls asking, maybe that's a good thing.

I topped the day off with the boss calling me into his office to tell me my department was falling apart, (well, dah!). Truthfully the remaining five or ten minutes in his office was somewhat a blur. Something about forgetting to run the ad and I may need to come in extra to run some programming. I think the real reason I was brought into the office was because the activity aide that was leaving was the first one for the facility and he wasn't ready to let her go yet and needed to vent.

When I left the office I should have gone in to finished my paper work. Instead, I went down on the units with the residents and joined the activity in progress. The residents always lift my spirits and re-affirm the reason I love my job, even when I am having a bad day.

When I left work tonight, I have to say, I was still dragging, but I did feel better hanging out with the residents. They help me put things into prospective.

Tomorrow is another day. And I believe all things happen for a reason. Maybe this is God's way of making me see things in a different light. I used to hate change, but maybe change is just what we need. Our programming could use a boost.

On a good note, I had two new part timers, students, in the orientation class today. They both start this week on the evening shift. They are really young and green but everybody has to start somewhere.

I haven't posted much lately. Maybe no one will even read this, but I feel better. I usually come in and read other people's troubles and go aways without posting because my problems seem small in comparison. Thanks for letting me bend your ear.

Today's quote is actually a bible verse: "If God takes you to it, He will see you through it".

God Bless. Good Night.

Looking out for each other...........

2009-01-25T23:00:00.001-05:00

Our economy has everyone in a stew. Even people who thought their jobs were secure are loosing their jobs. I can only imagine how difficult it must have been during the depression years. Being born in the fifties, the depression was on its way to recovery so I can’t say I remember much of it. That’s not to say we weren’t poor when I was growing up, I just didn’t know it because everyone else was poor too. We didn’t have much of what we wanted but most of our needs were met. Even if it was hand me down clothes and the very basic food items, canned vegetables, dried beans, potatoes, eggs, etc.

I was at the grocery tonight and got really stirred up. Memories of poverty were as fresh in my heart as if it were yesterday. I saw a family of four in the grocery. My heart really went out to them. The children were all under six or seven. They were asking for the usual things kids ask for when you take them to the grocery. Mom was doing what she could to pacify them without just saying no. It didn’t look like mom had much money but the need seemed plenty. I watched her for several isles while trying not to stare by going on about my business. I couldn’t get those kids out of my mind. They were all three very well behaved. When the mom told them they couldn’t have something, they didn’t throw a fit like most kids do, they just gave it back and moved on. I wanted to put back what I had and give my money to her for her children.

I moved on and tried to finish up as I figured I couldn’t do too much with the situation at hand but pray. As it turned out, I ended up in line behind them at the check out. Mom had what looked to be about thirty to forty dollars worth of food. Nothing fancy, couple boxes of cereal, milk, few canned goods, a couple packs of meat, some flour, sugar and a loaf or two of bread. I did see one box of little debbie cupcakes. Her bill rang up to $38.56. She had $32.00. She started telling the clerk to take this and that off, I handed the clerk a ten dollar bill and told her to use it for the balance. I was glad the lady didn’t protest but just looked at me and said God Bless and thank you. I told her I was really glad to help.

I know six or seven dollars don’t seem like much, but it can be an awful lot if you running short. Raising my own daughter, I can remember seeing how far I could stretch twenty or thirty dollars sometimes. Somehow, with God’s help, we managed but sometimes not without the help of prayer. God is so good.

Now, I’m not writing about this to tell you how great I am because I don’t feel great at all. I’m writing this because due to the economy, there are a lot of people out there having a lot more problems than we realize. Let’s all look around and do what we can to help each other, even if they don’t ask. There is a lot more we can do than we are doing.

God Bless

Pauline Birthday

2008-12-15T00:28:00.004-05:00

Yesterday was my girlfriends Birthday. We have a birthday 3 days apart, which is why I always remember when it is. Sorry I didn't blog it before midnight, but I did remember.

Happy Birthday Pauline. You're a great friend. Hope you have a great day and do something special.

Christmas Spirit and The end of another state survey

2008-12-14T21:20:00.003-05:00

Okay, so it has taken be a while to get in the holiday spirit but reading Judith's blog at Flight Song helped. I've never been this late and not finished with everything. I have been making gifts for about a month and a half and that should have put me in the mood, but it didn't.

As I posted on the 10th, state inspector were at my work last week, Tuesday through Thursday. That really didn't help my holiday spirit at all. They had the nerve to stick around for 4 whole days ( actually, that's how long they stay at any facility), which meant going in early each morning and staying until late. We weren't allow to leave until all the inspector had left for the day. Some days that meant 7am to 7 or 8 pm. We had our exit on Thursday afternoon. It was truly a GREAT survey! Unbelievable! We only got TWO tags, both in dietary (not that I would wish that on any department). It was a better survey then either of the last two years. If they have to come in December, right before Christmas, it's a nice gift not to get any serious tags.

In my department, I had three musical entertainers scheduled in the 4 days they were scheduled to be there. Can't beat that! Of course it is December. The month everyone is in the giving spirit and wanting to give back. ( I have 14 special events scheduled in the month of December. That's nuts!)

Everyone was on cloud nine Thursday afternoon. Management got to leave early on Friday. When the inspection was finished and the inspector were gone, our administer / owner had the secretary announce, "Elvis has left the building". Pretty cool!

My Christmas spirit was definitely picking up with the survey behind me. I've been listening to Christmas music all weekend. I still have a few things to pick up but for the most part, I did manage to get most of my shopping and projects done this weekend. I even have them wrapped and under the tree.

I made the mistake of leaving the wrapped gifts for my grandchildren under my tree. I thought my grandson would never let up during our quality time on Saturday night. He wanted to open one of those gifts sssooooooo bad. Who cares that there was 12 days till Christmas. I managed to find a big, stripped, blue and yellow snake that satisfied him for a time. He kept going back for that small glimmer of hope I would give in and let him open them.

We have a party every year at church, reaching out to the neighborhood with a pot luck, entertainment and a chance to get a picture with Santa. This year I had the pleasure of finding the entertainment. We had a couple clowns that did skits and clowning around, and bringing the real meaning into Christmas. They were called "Fools 4 Christ". They did a great job. They were at the nursing home I work at the day before. What a nice ministry.

As for Santa, the same guy has dressed as Santa for many years. This year was different. One of the other older men in our church did the job. I don't think they really notice who's in the suit, just that he visits and is willing to lend an ear for their latest Christmas wish.

God Bless and Good Night. And if you were one of the people out there saying a prayer for a good survey for our facility, Thank you! God hear our prayers.

It is what it is........

2008-12-10T20:27:00.005-05:00

State Survey. If you have ever worked in a nursing home, retirement home, or the like, you know what a state survey is. We are currently in our third day of our annual survey. The stress is so thick you can cut it with a knife. Having to come to work several hours early, and remaining until the last of them go home for the evening, which is several hours after our scheduled time to go home. Everyone is just exhausted! Add a little stress, and wow, the days are long.

Our administrator, owner, walks up and down the halls, with his hands in his pickets, pacing the halls. The DON runs from unit to unit, watching everyone, asking staff question when the opportunity presents itself. The other nursing staff hide, whenever they can get away with it. And I have never had such good participation and help from the staff to get people to and from programs. When they are in programming, the staff don't have to worry about them.

As for my department, I believe if you are doing what you are suppose to be doing, everyday, you have nothing to worry about. Does that decrease the stress, no, not at all. I have several new employees, who have never been through a state survey and they are very nervous. Truthfully, they do a great job, they just don't have the confidence or experience to know it.

The truth be told, activities is the best place to be during a state survey. Nursing and Food Service is their main focus. As long as you don't give them reason to focus on activities, they usually don't.

I'm told, by the other departments that my department is doing 50 to 60% more activities than the girl before me did. I don't have anything but their word to go on, I just believe in keeping them busy so as not to get into mischief. As luck would have it, I had two concerts scheduled so far this week and another one scheduled for tomorrow. After all, this is December. Everyone always wants to come and volunteer, you know, give back. (It's too bad they don't want to give back more months of the year but with the survey there, I'm not complaining.) This being the Christmas month, I also had scheduled, a craft everyday for the memory impaired unit and several time a week for the other units. Add a Christmas bingo and a little trivia and some other word games and the days have gone by pretty quickly. Having enough staff sure helps tremendously.

The only concern so far, was a resident council meeting, with only state survey people present, asking the residents questions. From what I hear of that, things went pretty well. They actually praise the activities and activity staff. Makes coming in early and staying late well worth it.

We still have one more day, but we have a great team and a beautiful place and resident who are very complimentary of the staff. Will we get 100%, probably not, but I think we are going to do just fine. I'll say a prayer just the same.

Quote for the day: See, I lay a stone in Zion, a tested stone, a precious cornerstone for a sure foundation. Isaiah 28:16

Blessed and Thankful beyond measure......

2008-11-28T22:41:00.004-05:00

Wow! I can hardly believe I have lots two months in blogging. My friends don't even stop by anymore because I have been gone so long. I don't blame them. What can I say, life is busy!

I am truly blessed. Not only am I busy and staying out of trouble, I have so much to be thankful for this thanksgiving. I have my woes like everyone else but life is good. I have my health, a job, a family who loves me and I can come to the blog world and read until my hearts content.

I had a fantastic day with my family yesterday. There was more to eat than should be allow in one day. I watched my grandson play with two game controllers for a video game that I would be hard pressed playing with one of. He even beat his sister and me twice at UNO . And my grand daughter is finally interested in crocheting. I have waited for years to see that happen. She actually stayed with it and finished half of a neck scarf. And watch my daughter be excited about quilting. Yeah, that's what I'm talking about. Just good quality time with my family.

It was back to work today. But I didn't mind, the family is off to see relatives in Virginia and won't be back until Sunday. I went to work early and stayed late, putting up Christmas trees, I did. Well there are 6 to put up and only one got done today but it was a 10 footer. Tomorrow is another day. By the time I get around to my own tree, it may take some doing to get in the mood to put it up. The grandchildren are good motivators for that.

I hope everyone had a Great and Blessed Thanksgiving. God Bless.

Vanity may not be your best option.......

2008-09-30T21:43:00.003-05:00

Something that has always puzzled me. It doesn't matter what walk of life you come from ...... What nationality ....... What race ......... Or even size, age, shy, or not........ It never ceases to amaze me how vain we are.

I sat for a long time today watching one of the seniors at work, struggle with how well she wrote her name. She sat talking with a social worker and myself, during a care conference, and was ask to sign her name when we were finished. This lady hesitated to sign, proclaiming her handwriting wasn't what it used to be. Wanting to preserve her dignity, we offered a piece of paper, at her request, to practice, of which she wrote her name several times, very slowly and carefully, before agreeing to sign the paper we offered her.

It's no different than watching yourself walk down the street and seeing your reflection in the store front glass, thinking to yourself that couldn't be you. You don't remember your profile being that out of shape. Or you hair style looking that as it does. Or your clothes looking that un-kept.....or the graying in your hair.....Or.....Or......Or............

When I first started working with seniors, one of them told me she didn't look like herself. What she said that day stayed with me a long time. I must say, I didn't quite understand what she was talking about at that time. As I age, I understand what she was talking about to well.

I was in the ladies room today washing my hands for lunch and looked up into the mirror to see someone I recognize, but it sure didn't look like what I thought I would look like when I got to be this age. What I felt on the inside didn't quite match what I was seeing on the outside. And no, I didn't just realize this. It sure helps me to be a lot more compassionate with our aging residents.

Isn't is wonderful that we are all unique and different. And no matter how much we age, our individuality and kindness can speak for themselves. The old saying that our grandparents used to tell us true after all. A nice young lady will be a nice old lady. And a beautiful young lady will be a beautiful old lady. Isn't it great that as we age, mellow, mature, what ever you want to call it, we are able to develop relationships with people for more than face value. Maybe watching our own bodies change, we hope others will look at us with a more forgiving lens and give us the opportunity to show them what we are made of too.

I've worked with seniors for a very long time and have learned there are a lot of wonderful souls out there, who have taught me what kind of person I want to be when I grow up. A little love, compassion and time go a long way no matter how old you are. What's that old saying, As we age we don't loose our beauty, it simply moves from our faces to our hearts. That senior I was working with today sure showed her beauty, and she didn't even know she was doing it.

Don't be too proud, to vain to show you true colors. And don't be too hard on yourself. God made us all is his glory. We are what and who he intended us to be. Living in his grace will be more that enough. Do all that you can and God will do the rest.

God Bless. Good Night.

After the storm.......

2008-09-17T19:12:00.004-05:00

The incredible wind storm last Sunday. At first is was an inconvenience compared to what we where hearing about those poor people in Texas. Louisiana and even Florida. Then we lost power. Not just a few people but the whole city. Lots of trees down, no traffic lights, stores closed, gas stations closed due to no gas and / or power.

Usually you would hear a lot of whining and complaining. Not a whimper! Everyone knew, however bad it seemed for us, it was MUCH worse for the people south of us.

We worried about the trees in the backyard coming down with the strong winds, while in our warm, comfortable home, watching TV or using the computer.

They worried about leaving their homes and not knowing where they would go and when they would get to come back.

We worry about loosing power and how long it would be off
They worried about loosing their homes and if they be livable when they returned
We were without power at work, I work in a nursing facility, for 4 days. Four twenty four hour days. We have 105 residents who live there and 149 staff member who work there. I spent the last 4 days watching people do what we should be doing everyday, working together, not complaining, doing what it takes to get the job done. All the while, my boss, the owner of the company, stayed all night and was right there in the middle of things,

We all know God does things for a reason. And while I have a hard time understanding the tragic things happening to those people in Texas and the whys. God doesn't always expect us to understand. God in his mercy handles things in his own way. Maybe it's God's way to make us all come together and help each other.

I think God brought Ike's ugly head our direction to help us see just how luck and blessed we are, power or no power. Money is tight for everyone these days due to the high cost of econ any, gas and food but prayer doesn't cost anything. Reaching out to your family, friends and neighbors, again free.

Do what you can for the people, here in your own city or in cities that continue to recover. god will bless you for your efforts. Maybe you don't have much. Maybe it doesn't take much. A smile. A meal. A helping hand. Do something for someone else. You won't believe how good it will make you feel.

God Bless.

Fun Facts about each other.......

2008-09-14T01:39:00.004-05:00

So, I've been tagged by Gigi, at In The Throne Room. This is a little lighthearted game to learn some tidbits about your fellow bloggers.

The Rules:

1) Each player starts with 8 random facts/habits about themselves.
2) People who are tagged need to write their own blog about their eight things and post these rules.
3) At the end of your blog, you need to choose eight people to get tagged and list their names.
4) Don't forget to leave them a comment telling them they're tagged and to read your blog.So, I'm now sharing 8 random things about myself and then the FUN part (for me anyway!)...I get to tag 8 of YOU to continue this madness! Ready? Here we go!

1.) I have a beautiful daughter and two really awesome grandchildren.
2.) I hate to cook, and I'm not a very good cook.
3.) I'm a loner, but I love being with people too.
4.) I always stay up too late because I don't require a lot of sleep.
5.) I'm more shy than most people think.
6.) I love to crochet and can make almost anything.
7.) I have a cat name Charlie. ( I never thought I would like having a cat but I do)
8.) My favorite foods are: Fish, homemade Mac & Cheese and Broccoli.

Okay, who to tag with this Meme........hmmmmmm.

1. Andrea at Decipher the Fog
2. Flight Song
3. A Pink Carnation in Bloom
4. A Flyover Blog
5. Carolanne Outside The Box
6. It's a Mom's World
7. Why Tame My Mind?
8. Vera's Crafty Blog

You've been tagged. Don't forget to read and follow the rules at the top of this blog. Have fun.

2008-09-11T22:18:00.001-05:00

God Bless America.

Come Home Safe Josh.

Only one month to go.

We Love you!

2008-09-09T20:18:00.002-05:00

I was going through some of the many books I have and came across a most interesting one; "Courage for the Chicken Hearted". It's a book of humorous and inspiring stories for confident living. Guide Post published it but it is written by Becky Freeman and a host of other writers.

My friend Grova, who died several years ago, gave it to me. This book is so like her, full of knowledge, stories, scriptures, poems and even recipes. I think they have only published one book but I sure wish they would publish another one. It's cute, uplifting and gives you food for thought. I want to say the Chicken Nuggets at the end of each chapter is my favorite part but I like it all.

I found this great poem, (the only poem in the whole book that doesn't take a chicken's prospective.) I like it because it highlights the Simple things in life. I think we all take life way too seriously, too often.

Hope this poem lightens you day. It did wonders for mine.

Simple Things

Teddy bears and rocking chairs

are some of my favorite things.

Cookie jars and shooting stars,

and robin in the spring,

Fields of flowers and April showers,

velvet grass beneath bare feet;

Gentle ran on windowpanes.]

and ice cream sundae treats.

Country folks and silly jokes,

lazy summer afternoons,

Porch swings and songs to sing

and roses in full bloom.

Autumn leaves, a crisp cool breeze,

a golden harvest moon;

Afire place, a cozy fire,

a guitar with a simple tune,

Candlelight and winter nights,

long letters from a friend.

Cinnamon smells and fairy tales,

old quilts to snuggle in.

Fireflies and apple pies,

the laughter of a child.

Believing all things are possible,

and that even angels smile.

Simple things are favorite things-

gifts from God above-

Priceless treasures money can't buy-

acquired through hearts of love.

God Bless.

You Are Who You Hang With........

2008-09-06T02:12:00.008-05:00

I just visited a new friend's blog. Gigi at The Throne Room. She wrote about the poem Reason, Season or a Life time. I love that poem. It's one of those poems you can read between the lines. And it stays with you more than the few minutes it takes you to read it. It makes you think about the people who inspire us....help us feel good about ourselves.....or who we can help or learn form. You find yourself going back and thinking about people who have come and gone in our lives.

I was always told, we are who we hang with. If you hang with people who are not wise, you will not be wise. If you hang with people who challenge you, you will grow wise.

I believe the wisest of all is God and anyone who follows his teaching can never go wrong. I believe he brings people into our paths to teach us and help us grow in ways that are beyond our own understanding sometimes. My friend Grova ( who passed away in her sleep two years ago) was a Hugh example of that. Where she was strong, I was weak. And where I was strong, she was week. God in his wisdom always has a plan.

Growing up with a challenging background, I was always told I didn't have worth or knowledge. I grew up believing everyone was wise and I was dumb. I'm old enough now to realize we are all wise and worthy in our own ways. We can all teach much to many, while at the same time learn plenty with an open mind.

I have worked with seniors for many, many years and I can tell you they are itching to enlighten you with their knowledge. And they have plenty! This one lady, who was 104, started her lesson of wisdom with, "I'm at the end of my path here on earth and if I don't share what I know, how can I pass on the old traditions and experiences. Thus began my many years of listening and learning.

If you go in with an open mind, they can teach you plenty, even when your not looking. I can tell you the dept of wisdom these people have, is deeper than any ocean. That 104 year old lady, Bertha, could quote EVERY bible verse, word for word. She never went to bed without reading a chapter or two, (even though she could quote it), and when she got too old to see the word, she would have someone read it to her. Often that person would be me.

Quote for the day: Befriend yourself with people you can help and teach while allowing yourself to learn and grow at the same time. (I wrote this quote)

God Bless and Good Night.

Labor day and the Hurricane

2008-09-01T16:36:00.004-05:00

Happy Labor day. Hope you have the pleasure of being off today.

And for those of you who had to work today, thank you. For caring for our seniors in nursing homes and our children so their parents could work. For making it possible for me to visit my local grocery store and for manning the phones so I could talk to my friends on the phone. And for being there at the gas stations and restaurants, so that we might have that quality family time, sometimes missing these days because we are all so busy.

I just heard on the television that Olive Garden delivered free food to several of out local police departments. I think that awesome! However, I wish they would have sent that money to the people who had to evacuate from their homes for food but the gesture was a good one.

As for my labor day, I had plenty planned and accomplished little. I guess that was God's way of telling me to be kind to myself. However, my bedroom still isn't painted. The bushes outside still look like they could use some TLC. and the vaccum is still in the closet and hasn't shown it face, as of yet (That still might happen).

I did manage to bathe the cat. Old Charlie didn't know what hit him. I just know he wished I would have allowed that chore to go undone. He even got has nail clipped and a good brushing. He looks good and even smells good, and I haven't seen much of him all weekend!

We (my daughter and I) went to Indianapolis yesterday to see my great nephew, who was born two weeks ago. He's really cute. Looks like his mommy. We went after the initial rush when everyone else was leaving and returning from the holiday weekend. We went on Saturday and returned on the same day. It's a little over 2 hours one way and we spent about 3 hours there. It was a beautiful day for a ride. I not only enjoyed the visit with my niece and great nephew, I enjoyed the quality time in the car with my daughter. With life so busy, getting away alone together is a rare blessing for us.

Today, I haven't done much. Poked around in the computer, did a couple loads of laundry, Hit the grocery for stuff for lunches this week. It's nice having the day off and not having to worry about anything. I had hoped to come together for a picnic with the family but I guess I can count my blessing. I had a nice day yesterday.

Before I close, I want to take a few minutes to ask everyone to pray for those poor people in the south having to, yet again, go through a hurricane. AGAIN! It's really hard on the adult but it's awful on the children. If I didn't have a new job, and had all the money I needed, I would be first in line to volunteer to help those people and more. Don't forget, the Red Cross is asking for help. We can all do something. I plan to call Matthew 25 tomorrow and see what I can do.

Lord,

Watch over those people who again have to move from their homes for safety. Help them to know you are traveling with them. Help them to find the things they need while avoiding the dangers of the weather. Help the people who can help, come forward and help. Watch over the service men and women and the police men and women who work so hard to protect the people and their unattended homes and things left behind that they treasure. Help them find the kindness and love in all the christian people we know are out there. Keep them in your care. Help the damage not be too great when they return home. Bless them Lord. Amen

God Bless.

Things are coming togetrher.......

2008-08-27T21:51:00.005-05:00

The job is going well. It is a pleasure to have a job that allows me, on an everyday basis, to enhance the quality of another person's life. Now grant it, some days we are sometimes too busy to feel the impact on weather or not we made a difference, but today wasn't one of those days.

I had the pleasure of interviewing a resident for our newsletter today. (Our company puts one out monthly. I get the pleasure of writing it.) The only reason I bring this part into my blog is because I was so in awe at some of the answers she gave. Before telling you about the interview, I have to give you a bit of history on this person. Doctors have given her less that two months to live due to cancer. It has already been two months and two weeks, so according to her doctor, she is living on borrowed time, and she knows it.

She has the greatest attitude. I learned she was born in Tennessee. Married when she was 20. Loved being a wife, cooking and cleaning and taking care of her home. Listening to her talk, I thought this sounded pretty ordinary until she started talking about her husband going off to the war. And about having to go to work to support her family. Now being the tiny little lady she is, when she talked about running a saw in a sawmill, cutting lumber, my ears perked up. Then she said after there was no more wood to cut, she went on to work operation a kick press (whatever that is) and working as a maid in the wealthy part of town. She said she wore the same uniforms you see in the movies - black dresses with crisp white collars and sleeves.

She also talked about her and her husband making 50 pounds of candy every year at Christmas time to share with the neighbors. She talked about how hard money was to come by and how long she saved to get enough to make the candy. She said she couldn't let her neighbors down. They might not get anything sweet because they may not have any money either.

Can you imagine what kind of world we would have if everyone had the same mind set now she did back then. There are a lot of really nice people out there who honestly want to help but there are a lot of me people out there too, only focusing on themselves.

Another good thing happened at work today. The new girl I hired started in my department today. She has about 8 years experience in working activities with the residents. I can tell you it was a pleasure watching her interact with the residents. You could see she knew the needs of the different resident almost before they voiced them. I think she will be a real asset to our facility and to the activity department.

Unfortunately it showed how bad one of the other girls is. I knew she needed coaching and teaching, however, she has not been open to learning and growing. The other team members have been complaining about her a lot. As you remember I wrote in another post , she was the one I had to write up on my first day alone on the job. She had a pretty ruff day today. I hope the new girl can help her come around, otherwise, her days are numbered. There's too many good people out there who need a job and are willing to do what is necessary for the residents.

On to a happier note. Our student volunteering program is beginning to take shape. There are two high schools willing to offer our facility as a good place to earn their community service hours. I'm excited. I have worked with one of the schools before and know the experience will be a good one for both resident and student. The other school may take some work but I know will be well worth the efforts.

I'm glad things are coming together in this job. I think it is a better fit than either of the last two jobs I have had.

I hope everyone is having a great week. God Bless.

Quote of the day:The best things in life aren't things.

We should never be too busy for family time......

2008-08-17T19:19:00.003-05:00

We all live is such a busy world. We let the days, weeks and months slip through our fingers. Then we sit back and wonder where the time went. How the kids could possible be that big. How your child could possible have a child old enough to be entering junior high in a few days. Man, I feel old.

Today I spent a lovely day with my daughter and family. All I can say is, I am so blessed. She is such a great mom! And let's not forget how good the dad is too! Not that we need to be reminded, or maybe we do need reminders. Don't forget to stop and smell the roses. Spend that quality time with the family. Do what you can to be happy and do whatever you can to ensure their happiness too. We may not get tomorrow. And none of us are getting any younger.

Today we went to a Cincinnati Reds baseball game. They had been on a loosing streak but today they won 7-3 today! I just know it was because they knew there was a Mercy Me concert scheduled immediately after the game.

The game was really good, the seat were almost on the field. We got signatures of several players and even high fives for the Reds mascot. The concert was Great! We were able to keep the seat from the game. There were maybe 10,000 people who attended the concert. It was the greatest feeling listening to that many people sing Amazing Grace, and we sang it twice! Awesome! They gave us opportunities to sing a couple other songs too. It only lasted about an hour, but it was a powerful hour.

The lead singer talked about dealing with problems and how God intended for us to have them. He talked about the book of Job and how problems are a part of life. And how God sacrificed too. He gave his own perfect son. It was deep in there for a while, but I came away refreshed and renewed. You can't help but count your blessing, problems and all.

Take care of yourselves. Be good to yourselves.

Quote of the day: The foolish man seeks happiness in the distance, the wise man grows it under their feet. James Oppenheim

Where does the time go?

2008-08-10T23:08:00.003-05:00

In coming into my blog, I resisted the temptation of going into some of my favorite blogs. Every time I do I end up spending several hours getting lost in reading about everyone else lives and decide to blog on my life another time. Pretty soon you realize three weeks or a month has gone by.........

The summer is quickly getting away from me. It's hard to believe we're moving into the second week of August already. Wasn't today just a beautiful day! God is so good!

Vacation in Put in Bay was great with the family. There is nothing like good quality time with the family. The weather could have been better, but at least it wasn't a wash out. I think everyone got to do all that they wanted to. My favorite parts were riding up and back with the grandchildren in the back seat chattering and singing songs like "BINGO" at the top of "our" lungs..........or maybe it was carrying our tent, assembled, to another camp site, as the camp ground was ( ) full.........or maybe it was reading the Gazette (that's the local news paper) and finding out more about locals and the old houses...........or the early morning sneak away with my granddaughter and going downtown......or when my grandson caught his first fish (before dad or grandpa). Do you get the idea it was a good time for all.......I hope we can do it again next year.

The new job is going great! I've been there just over a month. I have learned much and know I still have much to learn. I have a awesome activity staff. This fall should bring some challenges with several staff members going back to college but hiring new staff isn't anything new to me.

This job is a lot different than the last one. The meetings and paperwork are still there but I can make the resident my main focus, the other stuff secondary, which is the way it should be. My first shin-dig last Thursday went well. I hired and entertainer and had not yet heard her and was a bit worried but I soon realize I had nothing to worry about She was good! I like it when things work out.

Vacation bible school was a big hit with the neighboring children. I think we neared 70 this year. I 'm glad VBS is a mission our church can offer. Kids today need all the help we can give them. I didn't sign up for a class this year because I wasn't sure of the employment situation. As it turned out, Andrea (my daughter) needed a pinch hitter for the toddler group so she could take care of some needed business.

I want to share one more thing........
As a blogger you didn't know your were famous and an author did you? I read a nice article in the August RedbooK magazine about blogging. Good Stuff! On the cover, it said "Spill your Secrets". I just knew the article was going to be about blogging. It's a really good article. I liked how it said "finding the right blogging community is like finding the right pair of jeans". I guess that's true, we click better with some than others and we all have different interests. I learned blogger.com isn't the only blogging place (which I already knew wouldn't be but I didn't know the names of any). There is livejournal.com and wordpress.com. If you don't want to have a blog page and just want to put your two cents worth in, there is "divinecaroline.com" or "tokoni.com". Go check it out, I think you will all get something out of it. Let me know what you think.

Quote of the day: Life expectancy would grow by leaps and bounds if green vegetables smelled as good as bacon. Doug Larson

God Bless. Good Night

Work that brain!.........

2008-07-08T21:57:00.003-05:00

Well my second day on the job is gone and things are going well. It sure is a lot to take in at one time.

The person I am replacing is still on the job and has been doing her best to remember everything that she can think of to make my transition go as smoothly as possible. This should make my job easier after she is gone. I really appreciate that! The last job, I went into, I went in blind.

Thankfully, most of what she is sharing, I have already done before. I just need to brush up on it because I haven't done most of the paper work required in over seven years. Hopefully it will be like riding a bike, a little practice and I'll be off and running. In the mean time, prayers are appreciated.

It didn't take long to realize the job consist of 20 percent staff and resident interaction and 80 percent paper work. The state has to have their part. I'm okay with the paperwork. My only hope is that I can keep up while in the relearning process.

Learning the new computer systems, residents, staff names, new policies and procedures and the like.............Aren't new jobs fun? Maybe I'm getting too old for all this job jumping thing.

It is nice to be back to work and I know this for sure.........If God takes me to it, He will see me through it.

Have a good night. God Bless.

Looking forward to my new journey.........

2008-07-03T22:47:00.004-05:00

I came to my blog over two hours ago. I almost always start by spending time visiting and reading some of the great blogger so I can catch up on what everyone is doing. Andrea's daughter (my granddaughter) is getting braces. Judith is writing a book. Kim been on vacation and making crocheted food for her niece. And Stephanie, has a new baby! And there is plenty more to read but it will have to wait for another night.

I have some great news. I'm not unemployed anymore. Yippee!! I knew God had a plan. Besides, seven weeks is long enough to be unemployed.

I got the final conformation call today about my new job as an Activity Director in a Care Center. A job that is more in line with my experience. I start on Monday.

The company is young, only two years old. They own several other communities in our city that have been around for a while. There are about 100 residents, with a potential for 20 more. There are 6 activity staff not including myself.

I'm looking forward to beginning my new journey. How quickly I have forgotten how much I like working. The days can get long. Besides, I like having a job that enhances and aides in healing individuals loves. I appreciate being need by others. Being an Activity Director is often referred to by other staff as the "Fun Job". And most of the time, they are right! I say most of the time because there is a lot of paper work involved in a job like this, but believe it or not, I like that part too.

Quote for the day: Most of us lead far more meaningful lives than we know. Often finding meaning is not about doing thing differently; it is about seeing familiar things in new ways. When we find new eyes, the unsuspected blessings of work we have done for many years may take us completely by surprise.
Quote comes from the book, "My Grandfather's Blessings" by Rachel Naomi Remen, MD

A coincidence or a small miracle........

2008-06-24T23:00:00.003-05:00

Well, I went for a second interview with a retirement community that is only two years old. They own several in our city, but this one is new. The Administrator is young enough to be one own son, ( those are his words, when he found out how old my daughter was). Funny thing, I interviewed with him two years ago, almost to the day. He was willing to hire me then but the company wouldn't be ready for opening for 10 weeks and I couldn't wait that long. Having this same job available at the same time I am once again looking, I think it is a sign from God.

The first interview went well. Having interviewed with him before, there were no butterflies or anything like that. I was relaxed and it made the interview go quickly and smoothly. As it happens, the ad had just been running one day when I sent my resume in. After the interview he said he had several interviews scheduled and would get back to me 4 days later. Early on the 4th day he called and scheduled me in the very next working day.

With being called in for the second interview, I knew the job was mine if I wanted it. We toured the facility, again. Not knowing I was being tested as we moved through the four units. He ask me to observe and provide feedback when we got back to the office. As we toured, he excused himself several times various reasons, staying gone as much a five minutes each. While he was away, I joined in the activity on two separate occasions.

When we returned to his office he said I pasted his test. I told him I didn't know I was being tested. He ask if I knew what the test was. Of course I knew but I didn't tell him I knew. The test he was referring to was becoming involved with the resident and not staying on the side line while waiting for him to return to the room he left me in.

When he offered me the job, I didn't take it right away. I told him I had another second interview scheduled the following day (which wasn't the complete truth, I had a first interview scheduled). After finding out the interview was scheduled at 2:00, he ask me to call him at 3:30, after the interview.

I ended up not going on the interview and just waited until 3:30 to return his call. I accepted the job. I go for orientation in seven hours. ( I better get my bones in bed). I start on July 7th.

Soooo, I guess I can say, I am not unemployed anymore. I have a week and a half to get my ducks in a row then it's back to work. I can't wait!

Quote for the day: A coincidence is a small miracle where God prefers to remain anonymous.

Rescue me.....or not!

2008-06-21T00:51:00.002-05:00

Someone better rescue me soon. I have been working myself to death around here. I was up at 6:30 this morning. I did my regular stuff but I didn't stop there. I cleaned the pantry, sorted out a closet in my bedroom that had way too much junk in it, compiled a nice big of clothes for the goodwill and did several loads of laundry and mopped and waxed the kitchen floor.

Yesterday I installed a new sink in the bathroom. Well, truth be told, Tim down the block and I installed it. I found that the pipe was leaking and the sink was long overdue in replacing. One thing I did realize in putting the sink in, there is a job for everyone and plumbing isn't it for me, no matter how much I need a job.

Tomorrow if the weather holds and it's not too hot, I have a lot of bushes and grass outside that need some grooming. I used to frown on the old couple that lived next door. They were retired and kept the yard so beautiful and well groomed. Heck, he sometimes mowed the yard twice a week. I sure wish they were back over there. The new young couple that have lived there for the past three years make the little work I do in my yard look good, and trust me, I could do so much more.

I continue to be unemployed and the interviewing process continues, and life is good. I got a call today. I thought it was a call to come again for a second interview. What it was, was a call for a job reference for my friend, who is also looking for a job. We talked several minutes, the lady shooting multiple questions what kind of person she was and the work habits of my friend. Who would ever give someone a bad reference when you know it may change the outcome of weather or not that person got or didn't get the job? They would have to be really bad.

When I thought the conversation / reference call was about finish, this lady then told me she had been told I was out of a job too and that she had several more openings and to submit a resume if I was interested. It would be working with children rather than seniors and it's not really what I was looking for but sounds interesting and worth at least an interview.

I got two more calls about employment. One to schedule a first interview, one to come back for a second interview. The one that is a second interview if working only with health care residents. Assisted living and Independent residents are my favorite but the need is greater for good activity people working with the more frail resident. I almost got a job with this company a couple years ago but couldn't wait 10 weeks to start. Him calling me back, he must see something in me that he likes. I have the weekend to think about it. I have several offers in the wings but he is the first to call for a second interview. I just want to make sure not to jump to quickly just because I need a job.

Quote for the day: You can accomplish more in one hour with God than one lifetime without him.

What's important and what's not.......

2008-06-15T01:08:00.002-05:00

Interesting how important paper work is when your up to your eyeball in it. I just spent several hours sorting through papers that used to be a big part the job I had. I used to bring home several hours of paper work each night, and. now it lays in a heap on the floor, ready for the garbage.

When I quit my job 4 weeks ago, I brought home my work bag and the few items from my office. Before today I haven’t touched that bag. Funny thing is, that paperwork was of such an urgency to be completed, then you let the job go and are immediately freed from it. Does that mean the job was of no value? No I don’t think so. I believe the company thought it was asking for what they thought was of the best service for their residents. The only problems with that is that the management teams are often so far removed from the true aspects of the job that they don’t really know what is needed. We often get so wrapped up in paper work, we don’t get enough quality time with the residents.

I thought I would feel lost and worthless when I left my job, and maybe that was true for the first couple days, not any more. I thought about the residents and miss them at times but that is only because I cared.

In the first week, after posting about 10-1 2 resumes, I went on vacation to see my friend Pam in South Carolina. If anyone could build me up, she could. I spent five days with her and her husband. Both knowing my situation and knowing I would talk about it if I wanted to neither mentioned it, not once. She has a true way of making you feel the worth and value of just being yourself. She kept me busy enough to stay engaged and gave me enough space and alone time to work out what my next plan of action would be.

The hardest part of being out of work isn’t what you think it should be, the money, it’s the waiting until things start happening. I haven’t been as anxious as I thought I would be. Then again, it has only been four weeks. I have had some positive leads.

And so I began the interviewing process this week. I had three. Each followed by lunch out with an old friend, (one of which I had not seen in five years).

Now I know your supposed to be nervous when you interview, but I wasn’t. I could tell by the first interview that this was going to be one of many. The job sounded great. It wasn’t enough hours, (can you imagine I’m saying that), and it wasn’t enough money, Tt was also a lot farther from home that I want to travel every day. The AD read full time but by the time I got there they had hired someone from within and it was down to part time. Having lunch with a friend afterwords, it was nice to have someone to talk to about it.

The second one was better. She turned out to be an old coworker. I wasn’t sure I wanted to go there, but it turned out really good. The third one sounded interesting, but not what I wanted at all.

I attended a business meeting on Thursday for activity professionals and got several new leads to move on next week. As long as the leads keep coming I will remain positive and upbeat.

I used to not like change. I think the older I get the more I think like it. Or maybe it’s just that I needed a change so bad, I welcome it. The thought of getting back into working hands on, enriching the quality of lives for residents with activities sounds very satisfying to me.

I believe God has a plan. I pray daily that he will guide me in my search and help me find that job that will both enrich me in my delivery of service, while enhancing the quality of lives of the seniors I serve.

I was looking forward to going to my grandson’s T-ball game today but with the rainy weather it was cancelled. Instead I spent a quite day at home cleaning house and moving furniture around. We (my grandson and I) spent the evening together, as Saturday is date night for his parents. We played cars and watched the Cincinnati Reds Baseball game, then went out in the yard and played base ball. He is soooooo cute. He can hit that ball better at 5 than I could ever hit it.. Wonder why they have to grow up so fast?

Quote for the day is from a new book I found – “Sunsets with God”
Remember the things He has promised and that regardless of your performance today, as you give your whole heart to Him, He makes up the difference.

One Word

2008-06-02T14:37:00.002-05:00

Your can cnly use one word in you answers. Thanks Stephanie.

1.Where is your mobile phone? Handy
2.Your significant other? no
3.Your hair? short
4.Your mother? uninvolved
5.Your father? Heaven
6.Your favorite thing? Family
7.Your dream last night? different
8.Your favorite drink? Pepsi
9.Your dream/goal? contentment
10.The room you’re in? Den
11.Your ex? nope
12.Your fear? Pennyless
13.Where do you want to be in 6 years? Florida?
14.Where were you last night? Target
15.What you’re not? emlpoyed
16.Muffins? Blueberry
17.One of your wish list items? computer
18.Where you grew up? Cincinnati
19.The last thing you did? dishes
20.What are you wearing? glasses
21.Your TV? big
22.Your pets? devoted
23.Your computer? old
24.Your life? calm
25.Your mood? content
26.Missing someone? John
27.Your car? Matrex
28.Something you’re not wearing? earrings
29.Favorite Store? Michael's
30.Your summer? exciting
31.Like someone? Lots
32.Your favorite color? Orange
33.When is the last time you laughed? yesterday
34.Last time you cried? last night

Work and God's plan

2008-06-02T13:23:00.001-05:00

I believe God has a plan for all of us. I think He stirs us up sometime to allow us to focus on what’s important in life. I think working hard at a job is important however, a job that continues to suck the life out of you, pushing you to spend more and more time away from family and the things you love doing is not the right job.

I quit my job three weeks ago and. I spent the first week catching up on some long lost sleep, and feeling sorry for my self, wondering if I had done the right thing in leaving when I didn’t have another job to cover the missing income that would surely be missed.

As I sit and wonder what the next move would be in my search for a new job, I can’t help but to let my mind drift in all sorts of directions. Knowing that retirement is not an option at this point in my life and with the internet at my finger tip, the search is a lot easier than it once was. Is this the time to make a change in the direction I want to take?

No, I want to go back to being an activities director but there is a problem…..

As an Activity Director for seniors, the job field is not a big one, and what is out there fills fast. I tell myself I’m not worried because God has a plan for me. On days when I go into the computer and see several listings for my job qualification, I feel encouraged in God’s plan and am willing to wait for the direction He wants me to take. Then several days go by without a call or response and I pray that God won’t have me wait too long and become too discouraged in my search.

In that prayer for patience, I am moved to get up and make that follow-up phone call, attack that closet that has been begging for attention or take that long overdue walk in the beautiful sunshine. And if I am still discouraged, I call a friend to reconnect, go to lunch. It’s been too long and I have a lot of catching up to do. Thanks, Pauline, Linda, Carolyn. I even took a long weekend with my dear friend Pam in South Carolina. Thanks Pam.

Life is too short to be in a job that continued to take advantage of my willingness to work as many hours as it takes to get the job done. I tell myself if I don’t do it, who will? Who will be there for these wonderful seniors, who have worked so hard all their lives and deserve the loving care and quality service I can provide. We can all be replaced.

When I would come home after a long tiring day, the sun long past setting, I would wonder why I have let yet another day get away from me, without much to show for it, I would feel guilty that I have again not done what I could for my own home and family. Not fulfilling my family obligations, especially to the grandchildren, who seem to be growing up right in front of my nose. And my house. Oh my house. It calls out to that motivated, energetic person who moved in ten and a half years ago, egger to spend quality time and energy making it beautiful, inside and out, (I’ll be back!)

Keep me in your prayers. I’m not discouraged about not having a job, yet. It’s only been three weeks and I still have much to do around here. Besides, I believe the scripture that

….If God takes us to it, He will see us through it.

A little taste of my world.....

2008-02-04T20:06:00.000-05:00

A Little Taste

Stole this from Chelsea: who stole it from Mel

Tomorrow: Is Tuesday. And after working the grave yard shift I will go out to lunch with a bus load of Alzheimer's residents from work, who really appreciate being able to go out and do something different, even if they don't know where they are.

Happy Because: I am loved, I have a job, My family is healthy and happy.

Today I: worked the grave yard shift, again (last night). Came home and slept a little, worked around the house, got some stuff together to donate to Goodwill, spent some quality time playing around in the computer, re-entered the blog wold - made some homemade soup, clipped the cat's toenails, talk to an old friend on the phone, and went into work AGAIN tonight, ( I hope those trainees hurry up, I don't like the grave yard shift).

Something(s) I know: I have a great family! - My brother needs a hair cut - My work is very rewarding but sometimes keeps me from spending quality time with the people I love - Pam in South Carolina needs a visitor because I need a vacation - Did you hear that Pam?

Currently reading: Lots of Blogs. I have a lot of catching up to do. Plus I have 3 new magazines and 4 new books I got for christmas, (that call my name every time I look in the direction of the book shelf.)

Wanting: My brother to find that perfect job that makes him shine like the wonderful person he is.

Favorite Gadget: New small appliances I got for christmas, a smoothie maker and a two in one toaster oven.

Thankful that: I have my family so close to me. Because even when I work crazy hours, they still find time to spend quality time together with me.

Wondering Why: Most people don't have the work ethic that their parents had. ( I don't mean that for everyone but there sure are a lot of people out there who want a paycheck for doing a shoty job. I know, I had to fire two of them in the last couple months)

Quote for the day: Families are forever.

God Bless

2007-11-28T21:57:00.000-05:00

I've always been told, the older we get, the faster the time goes by. I think I believe I'm getting really old. Are there really only 27 days until christmas? Where's my cane?

Need I say, life is crazy busy and there are no signs of slowing until at least the end of the year at this point.

Life is good. Way too busy to appreciate all that has been coming my way the last two months.

Halloween

Women's Faith Conference and visited with my friend in North Carolina

Babysitting the grands so my daughter and son in law could get away for some quality time

Many, many hours of overtime and weekends at work to ensure a good time for the residents over the thanksgiving holiday

Son in law's Birthday and dinner at their house. More quality time with the family, my favorite.

2007-10-14T21:40:00.000-05:00

Work is so incredibly busy lately. Most days I don't know if I'm pitching or catching. That's not to say the days aren't rewarding and satisfying, because they are. It's nice to be my own boss. I'm the one I blame it I don't get the job done, and that can be good and bad.

In the area I work, the staff have been left to fin for themselves for a long time. They have been playing a few games with me, but I'm up for the challenge. They take good care of the residents, the rest will come.

That being said, the paper work was a disaster. I can't believe they didn't have a system in place. Unfortunately that's what t he state inspectors and Quality Service Reviewers measure when looking at for the scores as to how good the care is.

I'll soon be there six months and feel I have made great strides. I sure have a long way to go. Truth be told, I like the paper work and not having a system in place may have been a good thing. I can develop my own. Finding the time to get it done is another thing. To top it off, about three months into the job the company decides to update to new forms for the resident information, going from a two page form to a six page form. And no, I didn't meet the deadline of Oct 1, but none of the other communities did either. And that's only one form. There are at least 8-10 more and that doesn't count the ones for my staff.

When I start this job, by new boss told me it would take about six months to get a real feel for the job. In my mind, I thought that seemed a little long. I know now she was right on target. But, she knew what a mess everything was in, I didn't.

Tomorrow starts another busy week but I'm ready. I have had a great weekend with my family. Soccer games for both grandchildren on Saturday and dinner after. Then church, lunch at church and the last soccer game for my granddaughter on Sunday. She really has gotten better over the years. She looks a lot like my daughter at that age running around out there.

I really like to see the little guy play soccer. At their age, sometimes they don't know which way is the right way to run on the field. The ball hit his shin guard and he cheered because he thought he helped to make the play. He is too cut out there. He has one more game and he is done for the season too. I still can't believe he is big enough to play soccer and go to preschool.

Quote for the day: That which cometh from the heart goes to the heart. Jeremiah burroughs

2007-09-22T22:19:00.000-05:00

I found this meme. Actually I have had it for several days but haven't taken the time to do it. I enjoyed it more than I thought I would once I got into it. I found the meme idea on a page that had multiple meme ideas.

If you like it, feel free to help your self to it. There are no rules other than there should be a key word in each line begining with the letter that starts you off . If you do this, please put a comment on my blog so I can come read yours. Enjoy.

ME: A to Z

A I love the color that the season of Autumn brings

B I can never have too many Books

C My cat provide me with a lot of Company

D I have a lovely Daughter

E My granddaughter is Eleven but sometimes acts much older

F My Family is very important to me

G With all my heart, I love and believe in God

H Happiness is a choice. I choose to be happy

I I am very Independent sometimes too much so

J My brother John and I have a great relationship.

K I always intend to be Kind but don't always come across that way

L I live for the three L's..... Life, Laughter, Love

M I wish I had enough Money to meet my needs and reach out to others too

N Nothing is more important than being Needed by your family and friends

O Life offers a lot of Options. America allows me freedom to exercise them

P Special People in my life...Andrea Haley Ryan Matt John Fran Pam Scottie

Q I like to sit Quietly, listen to the love around me when I am with my family

R Remembrance, a true, valued part of our past.

S Sunday's are Special. I love the quality time spent with family.

T Thank You God for everything. I am so Blessed.

U I Usually stay up late playing in the computer when I should be in bed

V Vacations aren't long enough. Do something special. Be good to yourself

W I don't Worry. I do what I can, then I ..... "Let Go, Let God".

X I look for eXtra time in a day. My body tells me, be thankful there isn't

Y Today is the Tomorrow you worried about Yesterday.

Z It is important to come out of our comfort Zone to really live and grow.

Quote for the day: Attitudes are self-created. You are free to choose to be victimized by circumstances or people, or you can choose to look at life with an open mind and be victorious. No one else can choose your attitude for you. Your perspective and choice of attitude gives you the power to be in control. That is the essence of true freedom. Ivene Dunlap

God Bless. Good Night.

Catching up on the good stuff.......

2007-09-12T21:37:00.000-05:00

I came to my blog several hours ago, not really knowing what I wanted to blog about, just knowing I needed to come. I decided to go catch up on some of my friend's blogs. Maybe I would be inspired, find a really neat meme.

What I found in reading some of the blogs is that everyone else has been as busy as me and more. Judith at Flight Song has a new job and a new house. I'm so glad for her. Who says God doesn't answer prayers?

And Andrea at Decipher the fog. She may not have blogged in the last several days but I wonder where she gets the time and energy to do all that she does. Her son, my grandson starts preschool tomorrow, I think. And with all the soccer practices and games for two children, two part time jobs and a husband. Oh to be young again.

And Chelsea and DH and Boo. And Stephine, hubby and Elli. Must be the season. Everyone is all pumped up because it is finally getting cooler outside. It's about time.

I went to my grandson's soccer practice today only to find out it was cancelled. I was disappointed at first because I really enjoy watching him and visiting with my daughter, granddaughter and sometimes my son in law.

Then I thought about it for a minute. I was out of work earlier than I had been all week. It was a beautiful day. I went to the park and took a walk. (my first for the summer season). I got home before 7:30, went outside and worked in the yard until I couldn't see my hands in front of me. With the weather being so hot this summer, the yard has suffered quite a bit. The weeds and bushes were taking over and the poor trees need water soooooo bad. The grass, if longer, could pass for hay it's so dry.

Work continues to go well. I still work way too many hours but it doesn't seem to matter. The job is very rewarding and it keeps me out of mischief. Besides, my coworkers are working just as hard as I am and it is for the good of the people who live there.

What a great time had by all at the wedding this past weekend. Everyone was beautiful and the quality family time was priceless. I have lots of pictures and will post some of them as soon as I get the time to downloaded and cropped them. Andrea may beat me to it. She has some really nice ones too.

Quote: Our God is an Awesome God. Amen.

God Bless

One Word Meme

2007-08-30T23:58:00.000-05:00

I saw this most recently over at Susie blog and she found it floating around Blogville,It looked interesting so I thought I'd give it a try.

1. Where is your mobile phone? purse
2. Relationship? What?
3. Your hair? brown
4. Work? Lots!
5. Your sister Rose
6. Your favorite thing? computer
7. Your dream last night? none
8. Your favorite drink? Pepsi
9. Your dream car? none
10. The room you’re in? Den
11. Your shoes? comfortable
12. Your fears? Illness
13. What do you want to be in 10 years? Healthy
14. Who did you hang out with this weekend? Brother
15. What are you not good at? Partying
16. Muffin? Yum
17. Wish list item? NuComputer
18. Where you grew up? Cincinnati
19. The last thing you did? Blogged
20. What are you wearing? gown
21. What are you not wearing? shoes
22. Your pet? Cat
23. Your computer? Old
24. Your life? Full
25. Your mood? Content
26. Missing? Sleep
27. What are you thinking about? daughter
28. Your car? Matrix
29. Your kitchen? Small
30. Your summer? Hot
31. Your favorite color? Orange
32. Last time you laughed? Today
33. Last time you cried? Yesterday
34. School? Done
35. Love? Priceless

Now I tag you! If you're playing along be sure to let me know so I can come visit! Happy Friday!

God Bless

Using my talents to help prepare for the big wedding

2007-08-30T21:59:00.000-05:00

Interesting how we all have different talents. Most of which we leave dormit until the need arises to put them to use.

Take for instance: I've known how to sew for more than thirty years. I like to sew but often let the use of the computer, work or taking care of the house take up my time, rather than let my creative juices flow. It usually isn't until something motivates me back to something I really enjoy and get a lot of satisfaction out of that we come back.

My daughter and her whole family are in the wedding of her brother in law in about a week. And as you can probably guess the dresses that were purchased don't fit either my daughter, a bride's maid or my granddaughter, a flower girl. Oh, they are close but you know how it is, they would look and feel a lot better with a bit of tweaking.

Feeling as confident and as capable and the girl they would hire at the bridal store, I volunteered to give it my best shot.

My granddaughter's dress was a bit tight at the top due to a growth spurt over the last several months. At eleven, she is growing like a weed. She is taller too, but the dress was a little long but now fits fine. With only a week until the wedding, and the summer growth spurt behind her, the dress should fit fine for the wedding.

As for my daughter's dress, there is more tweaking to be done. Her being the shortest one in the wedding party, the dress was several inches too long, even at being a two piece. I think I have the length concern resolved but I'm not sure what we will do about the strapless, wire-in, pre-shaped, somewhat ill-fitting top. I wonder why they charge so much for dresses that they need to have someone alter to even come close to fitting.

I'm off tomorrow and hope to spent some time making head way on helping her feel as comfortable as possible wearing her beautiful green, expensive, bride's maid dress.

With that being said, I can't wait to see my little grandson in a tux. One that will match his father's, his grandfather's and the groom's, his uncle Andy.

I look forward to having a picture of the family 'all dressed up'. They haven't had a picture taken in a really long time and life is way too short for that not to happen as often as can be. After all, children grow up over night.

Quote for the day: God gives us all talent. If not used, that talent will die in the vines.

God Bless, Good Night.

Free giveaway contest

2007-08-14T23:08:00.000-05:00

Can you believe the contest that is going on at 5 Minutes for Mom? A flat screen TV! Click here to read all about it! Thanks to Best Buy they are giving away a 37″ Flat-Panel LCD HDTV!!! Make sure you go and sign up to win. The contest ends this Friday! Good luck!

ASAP....Always Say A Prayer.....

2007-08-14T21:13:00.000-05:00

My job continues to go well. Crazy, busy at times, but good. Sometimes, even when the days are good, we still need to remember God is in charge of all our days. If we pray for the things we need, God will provide them for us. Not in our time but his. And sometimes not in the form in which we as it but God is all knowing and all we need to have is faith, however difficult that may be.

Now, with that being said, I got this email today. I've seen it before but it still makes me stop and think, who do I want to pass this on to that may be having a bad day or needs to slow down and appreciate life and all that is good in it.

So, slow down, take a minute......get a cup of coffee or tea, I'll wait.....Now read this beautiful poem and thank God for all that is good.

ASAP

There's work to do, deadlines to meet;
You've got no time to spare,

But as you hurry and scurry-

ASAP - ALWAYS SAY A PRAYER

************

In the midst of family chaos,

"Quality time" is rare.

Do your best; let God do the rest-

ASAP - ALWAYS SAY A PRAYER.

*************

It may seem like your worries

Are more than you can bear.

Slow down and take a breather-

ASAP - ALWAYS SAY A PRAYER

*************

God knows how stressful life is;

He wants to ease our cares,

And He'll respond to all your needs

A.S.A.P. - ALWAYS SAY A PRAYER.

*************

Quote for the day: Don't get in too much of a hurry that you forget to count your many blessings.

God Bless you all, my blogger friends and have a good night

Today, Tomorrow, Yesterday.......

2007-08-13T21:56:00.000-05:00

I went to work all fired up today, list in hand, looking forward to a very productive day. I was going to get to that "to do" pile the continues to grow on my desk. I had lots of overdue calls to make. Well you get the idea, it was going to be busy today.

Do I need to tell you that my plan crumbled before I got in the building. A quick look around and I knew it was going to be a very full day. Several cars missing in the parking lot, the head nurse on vacation and my boss there before 9. Something was up.

My neighborhood was in good shape. I can't say the same for the other part of the building. They were down a coordinator (the manager) and two care managers, (that's the same as nurse aides in a nursing home). Me being the next manager in line, my first hour and a half was spent getting enough staff in the building to cover.

With that fire out, I thought the day would be smooth sailing, Not. At stand up I learned I would be the driver for the day. Now I don't really mind that but my plate was pretty full to start. I shelved that and moved forward. No since in fretting it. It was what it was.

The morning run was quick and easy. I still had time to get some on those call made. I wouldn't worry about it but they were reference calls to a couple people I hired. They were already in training and the answers to the messages I left on Thursday and Friday were still unanswered.
God must have been on my side. When I called I got through on every call.

I was able to Tweak and ISP for a resident who returned form the hospital on Friday. So the day wasn't turning out to be a total loss after all. Unfortunately, it was 1:00 and my body was screaming for something to eat and drink and I had another run at 1:30. Eat lunch or finish another project. You guessed it, I worked until time to take the last resident to their appointment. Turned out it was worth it.

Being downtown isn't my favorite place to be. Anymore, it isn't safe. Being the driver of the bus, I stayed with the bus while the care manager went with the resident. I drove around for an hour and twenty minutes waiting for them to get finished. In doing so I realized something. I haven't been in downtown for longer than I would like to think. Everything had changed. So much so that it was sometimes hard to find the landmarks than made it easy to detect what street was what. I found my self looking for the street signs . Something I never had to do being raised in this city.

Something else I realized. We really have some beautiful building in our downtown. Isn't it interesting how we go to other cities on vacations and take pictures of their building when I bet none of us could pull out a picture of our own building in our city. If I didn't know I was in Cincinnati today, I could have been anywhere. I saw building like what I saw today in Washington DC, Minnesota and even Florida.

Do I sound like I found some appreciation in my own city. You bet I did. I'm going to make a point of going downtown and just walk around, one of these days. I first have to get the world to slow down and let me off in order to have the time. I guess God knew I needed a little time to reflect and appreciate the beauty around me.

After the refreshing ride downtown, (I took the scenic route). I came back ready to get something done. And because it was already 4:30 a lot of the distractions were gone for the day. I didn't accomplish all I set out to do but tomorrow is another day. I'll just add to tomorrow what wasn't done today.

I went home with the promise of attending a 7:00 church meeting ( if was 6:55) but that didn't happen. And maybe it was for the best. I sometimes allow myself to get too worked up when I feel some people focus more on themselves that the job at hand. And I know, I need to pray about that.

Quote for the day: Today is the Tomorrow we worried about Yesterday.

All in a day's work......

2007-08-09T21:17:00.000-05:00

I continue to learn and grow in my new role as Reminiscence Coordinator. I think the training is done and the real party has begun, if that's what you want to call it. I sometimes work 12-15 hours a day(I used to think that was a really long) and even though that sounds like a lot of hours, it's really not. Not when you consider the quality you can offer the residents and staff in the time spent there. My boss continues to be awesome. She practices what she preaches and leads by example, motivating her staff to want to do the same.

The days can be hecktic but not one day have I wondered if I choose the right place. I know God had a hand in helping me find this job that best suits me, I can feel it. I could have been at Goodwill for 15 years and still not have gotten the satificaton on only a few month at this job.

The last couple weeks have been partucliarly crazy but maybe that's because the honeymoon has come to an end and I'm entering into a new journey. What started as a really quiet, peaceful setting is turning into a quite lively neighborhood. Not that that is bad. In a way it is quite good. Kinda like one of those places where there is never a dull moment. And except for when someone falls or one of the memory impaired individuals strikes out, life is good. Those little people just want someone to care. And interestingly enough, the families are just as needy. I can do that.

Today after spending 10 hours at work, I get a call. It seems the nurse had to call a family member about an insident report and they wanted to talk to the department head. That would be me. This family member is reeked with guilt because he works too much and doesn't visit his mother often. When he gets a call, even if it is a progress report, he immediately starts pointing fingers and finding fault.

I called him. All he really wanted is for someone to listen. To join his journey. He didn't want to leave his mother there but was unable to care for her himself. And the fact that she needed to be in a home and not in his care, he found it difficult to visit. Just a bit too close to home.

After listening to him for about 20 minutes, he apoligized for being rude and unkind, stating he only wnated what was best for his mother. After a little reasurance, I think he hung up feeling a better.

If only it were that easy to put our feeling to rest. Sometimes when we think things should be one way, and God wants them to be another way, we find it difficult to accept the outcome.Llife can be harder than we want it to be sometimes.

I can't even begin to imagine how I would feel putting my loved one in a community / facility and going home at night and be expected to sleep. With that being said, I really try to do a good job with the family members the families have entrusted us to care for.

I hope when I get old and end up in a home (if I'm l lucky enough to afford it), someone will put their heart into trying to make sure I am well cared for. No only clean, fed and dry but take the time to find out what kind of food and drink I like. Or that I like people but enjoy time alone. Or if my memory is fading, perserve my dignity and join my journey. What a difference it will makes in my quality of care.

Quote for the day: Dreams are renewable. No matter what our age or condition, there are still untapped possibilities within us and new beauty waiting to be born. Dale Turner

God Bless and have a good night.

Can life get any fuller?

2007-07-24T21:47:00.000-05:00

Vacation Bible School started at our church yesterday. I'm leading the crafts. I have to say, after a long productive day at work, it is a real challenge getting to church by 6:45 and having the energy to keep going, serving about 50 children until 9:00. Needless to say, when I get home I am really tired and truly full filled. It feels good to give back to our community.

Before today, I thought that was hard but I must say, I change my mind. My job was easy, compared to my daughter's. She had 17, that's right 17, 3&4 year olds. That's a lot of toddlers to keep entertained for two hours, when you don't really know them. The room is a really nice size if you have 8-10 children in it. She has them climbing the walls, and that's with 3 other helpers.

Pray that the weather holds out the rest of the week. They are calling for a chance of rain tomorrow and an almost certainty of rain on Thursday and Friday. Talk about wild,if tthey can't go outside. They need that to get rid of some of that bottled up energy.

We have three more days, and counting.

Work is going well. I continue to go to a lot of trainings. Some of which I have had before but I say nothing and keep going for the good of the company. I go tomorrow and Friday for more training outside of our community. I can't wait to be able to stay in my own community and put some of this wonderful training to use. Besides, the more I am away, the more paper work is put on hold.

I am coming up on my 90 day eval.( It feels like I have been there for years. ) I can see small improvements and changes since I started. I look forward to continued improvements in the quality of care our neighborhood ( that's what the call the area I work in) provides for our residents. Do I regret changing jobs, no way! Even when I work a lot more hours. The quality and reason for service in in place. You can't ask for more than that. I enjoy doing my part.

Quote for the day: Enjoy the little things, for one day you may look back and descover they were the big things.

God Bless. Good Night. .

Food For Thought......

2007-07-17T21:57:00.000-05:00

My work keeps me busy but it is a nice to have a job that gives me the opportunity to enhance the quality of individuals lives on a daily basis. I am blessed.

I came home tonight after a very long and productive day at work and found a most inspiring article in my mail box. I faintly remember receiving this a really long time ago. And even having received it before, I still found it very touching. I would like to share it with you as somewhat of a devotion. When reading it, keep in mind it only takes a small effort on our part to make a hugh difference in another life. Most people want to do well and don't want to have to ask for help. But stepping over your pride is often the hardest part, God will take care of the rest. Step up and do your part to help those in need.

Enjoy the article.

Food For Thought

Louise Redden, a poorly dressed lady with a look of defeat on her face, walked into a grocery store. She approached the owner of the store in a most humble manner and asked if he would let her charge a few groceries.

She softly explained that her husband was very ill and unable to work, they had seven children and they needed food.

John Longhouse, the grocer, scoffed at her and requested that she leave his store at once.

Visualizing the family needs, she said: "Please, sir! I will bring you the money just as soon as I can."

John told her he could not give her credit, since she did not have a charge account at his store.

Standing beside the counter was a customer who overheard the conversation between the two. The customer walked forward and told the grocer that he would stand good for whatever she needed for her family.

The grocer said in a very reluctant voice, "Do you have a grocery list?"

Louise replied, "Yes sir."

"O.K" he said, "put your grocery list on the scales and whatever your grocery list weighs, I will give you that amount in groceries."

Louise, hesitated a moment with a bowed head, then she reached into her purse and took out a piece of paper and scribbled something on it. She then laid the piece of paper on the scale carefully with her head still bowed.

The eyes of the grocer and the customer showed amazement when the scales went down and stayed down.

The grocer, staring at the scales, turned slowly to the customer and said begrudgingly, "I can't believe it."

The customer smiled and the grocer started putting the groceries on the other side of the scales. The scale did not balance so he continued to put more and more groceries on them until the scales would hold no more..

The grocer stood there in utter disgust. Finally, he grabbed the piece of paper from the scales and looked at it with greater amazement.

It was not a grocery list, it was a prayer, which said:
"Dear Lord, you know my needs and I am leaving this in your hands."

The grocer gave her the groceries that he had gathered and stood in stunned silence.

Louise thanked him and left the store.

The other customer handed a fifty-dollar bill to the grocer and said: "It was worth every penny of it ..

Only God Knows how much a prayer weighs."

So, trust God to heal the sick, provide food for the hungry, clothes and shelter for those that don't have as we do. Prayer is one of the best free gifts we receive.

Quote for the day: The best things in life aren't things. unknown

God Bless You!

All in a day's work.....and then some

2007-07-02T22:56:00.000-05:00

Life is so busy anymore, the longer I stay away from my blog, the easier is becomes. I think about it often and all the nice people and all the good stuff to read. Then I come to the blog and start reading and pretty soon several hours have gone and I haven't even shared what I came to share. Do I remember what it was I came to write about........no. I get so wrapped up in what everyone else is blogging about. The wedding , the end of the school year, the new business that is struggling, the little ones miss behaving, the little one going away for the summer, even the jobs that are a bore or just not measuring up.

After reading about all that for several nights in a row, do I really have anything interesting to write about? Perhaps not. So I put off blogging yet another night.

I went on a business trip, mentoring with someone who is doing the same job I have been doing for the past several months. The set up wasn't exactly like mine, nor was her situation, however, the experience was a good one.

The lady I mentored with(Amanda) was a young mother on three year old twins. How she managed all that she did, I'm sure I don't know. At her job she wear several hats as well as agreeing to mentor two us us at the same time. She seemed to have all her ducks in a row. Their program ran like clock work. Weather or not that was because they had visitors or just a regular day, no one will really ever know.

The purpose for the trip was to experience a program in place and to learn the ins and out of the massive paper work required on a daily basis. As well as managing the scheduling and scheduling of a staff of 15-20 doing 24 hour care for memory impaired seniors. Amanda was able to keep it real without any choosing of her own. She actually had to get to work sometimes two hours before we arrived at 9 am each morning in order to get her own work done, or at least the most pressing.

Did I come away with all that I needed, not exactly.

I learned that staffing will always be an issue for all the communities. Take it one day at a time, one schedule at a time. And that unexpected stuff will happen regardless of the planning (that part I already knew). I learned that her community didn't really model our program. They were much smaller, but the needs for memory impaired people were the same. A little assistance with ADL, a little food and a lot of TLC.

I learned that there are several new forms coming out and I have much more to do than I first thought. I learn to pace myself and take one day at a time. I learned that I knew a lot more than I thought I knew but that I still have an awful lot to learn.

I thought it would be a time that I could relax and enjoy Minnesota in the evenings but that didn't happen. Most evenings I was bored and lonely. I had a car and went exploring three out of five of the evenings but not knowing the town, and being by myself, after about an hour or two of that, it was back to the hotel and the cable TV. My computer would have been nice. (I need to get busy on looking for that upgrade, a lap top. I'm long over due.)

I felt bad, my cat "Charlie" wouldn't come out for my granddaughter or my daughter when they went to visit (he's a mama's boy) because he was mad I left him or didn't take him along. The first day I was back, he kept me in his view but kept his distance. He's back to his old self, laying up here on the desk beside me while I play in the computer.

The first day back at work was crazy, just as I had expected it would be, but it was all good. I am blessed to have a job.

Quote for the day: Blessed are the flexible, for they shall not be bent out of shape. Remember to appreciate all the different people in your life!

On the move and loving it........

2007-06-18T22:19:00.000-05:00

I sat here day after day, not very happy with what was going on in my life and didn't do anything about it for a very long time. Then one day I realized no one was going to change anything for me. I needed to do that myself. Getting this new job has put a new twist on life. Coupled with joining the YMCA and the travel that is required with the job, I can tell you, I've been on the move a lot lately.

It seems like this new job has put a new lease on life.

Actually, that's only partly true. Vacation had nothing to do with the job other than the requested time off before accepting it.

The day trip to King's Domain has much to do with the job. It was a lovely way to get to know my management team members at work without the usual daily stress the job brings. We spent the day playing games and learning how to work together as a team. Then went out for a refreshment and laughed and joked for another hour and a half. Pretty cool.

The trip to Columbus earlier this week for three days did. The business conference was a true learning experience, if only I could process it all. Twelve mini modules in two days is almost too much, but at least you do come away with most of it.

The trip to Put in Bay this past weekend was to die for. The quality family time. Relaxing. Strengthening family relationships. The beauty of the Island. We camped. We cooked out of doors. We even managed to find a park that almost no one else spent any time in to spend our days. The guys dropped a line in the water and fished. The women socialize and kept a keen eye on the munchkins. I like to watch the kids, even when the oldest one gets frustrated because she can't keep up with the men when baiting a hook. The little guy was a treat from start to finish. I love to hear him sing and watch him dance. And in the tent at night, I even got a taste of the funky chicken. You ask, what's that? Believe me, you don't want to know.

Then there is the business trip at the beginning of next week. I will be gone one day short of a week. That's a lot of cloths and stuff to pack! I almost wish it were in a town I was familiar with. And if not that, closer to home. But then again, I may find another new friend or vacation spot.

I get to spend the day mentoring with someone who holds the same job I have. It should be really interesting. The evening will be spent in a hotel, for a week. Who knows, I may need the time to myself. I'm a little worried about flying but I know God will be with me.

What's up after that, I have no idea. Hopeful, more of the same.

Quote: Life is a picnic and we are the ants! Celebrate.

God Bless. Good Night.

Catching up........

2007-06-01T19:30:00.000-05:00

Life has been way too busy. It seems like forever since I have been in the blog world (even thought it has only been nine days). With the new job and a vacation all in the past month I have a lot of bloggers and blogging to catch up on.

Before talking the job I told them I already had plans to go out of town over the Memorial Day holiday. All total, I was gone six days. It seemed like a lot longer than that. I visited my dear, dear friends Pam and Frank in South Carolina. Actually, she lives right on the border of North and South Carolina, near Charlotte. I relaxed, swam, shopped, socialized and spent a lot of time on the front porch reading. All the key elements required for a great vacation.

And no matter how long or how great a vacation is, it's interesting how quickly we jump right back into our work and the daily things that make our lives what they are.

The new job is coming along nicely. Makes me wonder why it took me almost a year to make the change. There is always a lot going on, which is the way I like it. If you are a planner and want the day to go just as planned, this is definitely not the job for you. Me, I just go with the flow. Take it as it comes. It's a lot more interesting that way.

The in town training is finished, for now, I continue to learn the ins and outs of the job and continue to become more familiar with the computer programs required for the job. Later this month I have two more trainings scheduled out of town.

My boss continues to be a real sweetheart, as do all the other management staff I have come in contact with. Any thing I need, they try really hard to assist me.

As for my staff of about 22, I think they think I just fell off a pumpkin truck or something. I know they have had the opportunity to pretty much do what the wanted (within reason, of course) for a really long time because the girl in my position was promoted from within and wasn't a very strong leader, which is why she stepped down and they hired me. The team found it hard to respect her in the ways she needed to get the job done. She was relieved to have someone else take the reins.

Don't get me wrong, they are a GREAT team and they work hard and care very much for those residents. But why not try the water with a new manager on board. See how deep it is or what the temperature of the water is. Even the lead person that held the position before me, tried. I love it!

I now look forward to going to work and have been spending way too many hours there, but the residents and staff make it all worth it.

So.... If your having a hard time in your job and you think there isn't a way out, there is. Sometimes change is good. Sometimes we stay in jobs that offer nothing when we could be getting great rewards from our jobs. Besides, we spend the greater part of out waking hours at work. It might as well be something we enjoy doing.

Quote for the day: Today is the first day of the rest of your life. Embrace it.

Change is good.....

2007-05-21T23:00:00.000-05:00

I can't believe that it has been almost 10 days since my last post.

I have been really busy making some well deserved changes in my life. "It's about time." I used to hate change. I used to have to take time to move slowly into change but I think if we don't embrace change, we can really find ourselves getting into a rut. Even getting depressed if we're not careful.

I really like my new job. I have been spending a lot of my blogging hours at work, learning the job and sitting in training. The days have been really long and busy, packed full of new beginnings and lots of information. So much so, I can hardly contain it all at times.

I spent the first week and two days in training and I am told I am not finished yet. I have never taken a job before that they did such complete training. Most of the time it's a couple days and they throw you out to the wolfs. I bet more people would hold jobs longer if they knew what they were getting into at the get-go. I know I would have turned my last job down flat if I knew just what I was getting my self into.

My boss is really super. In my job, I am the director of one of the "neighborhoods. I have a really good team of 18-20 staff members in place, 24-7. They are starved for attention and direction but most of all appreciation. For the most part, they do a really good job working with the residents.

Weather I want to admit it or not, I really like working in the nursing home setting. Even though they call this place an assisted living community, it's basically a nursing home. I feel I am back in my element again. There is something to be said for that.

Most of the job consist of keeping the paper work in order, (and there is a LOT of paperwork) and managing the staff, or the lack there of. Again, nothing I am afraid of and haven't done before.

I worked the weekend and was scheduled off today but went in anyway. It's employee appreciation week and my staff needed appreciated. Besides, I am scheduled of later in the week and am going on a long over visit to see my dear friend Pam over the Memorial Day Holiday.

And while I am in the mood for change, I joined the YMCA. Something else I have thought about doing for a very long time. I decided it was time to get off my butt and do it. I may never hit the exercise room but I love swimming and that is excellent exercise.

Besides, my daughter and family joined too. That means I know someone going n. I think that's the hardest part about joining a new club. You feel all alone at first.

I went the other night by my self. I enjoyed the swim but it was really lonesome. I spoke to several people but it was a quick hi, beginning and end of conversation. I went tonight and that same swim was just delightful because my daughter and the grandchildren there. With them there I was motivated to swim more. And the interaction with the family was priceless. Besides, my daughter was able to get some swimming laps in without worrying about the kids. Wow, those kids are really good in the water! I thought the little guy would be a little afraid. Not him. It's nice to know they aren't afraid of the water. That may come in handy some day.

When my daughter was growing up, we spent a lot of time in the pool. At least 4 or 5 days out of 7. We both grew to love the water. I have missed it. I have missed the valued exercise this old body needs and swimming can provide.

Quote for the day:

In a time of change, it is the learner who inherits the future.

God Bless.

2007-05-13T21:56:00.000-05:00

Happy Mother's Day to all.

I had a most delightful day with my family today, coming together here at my house for a family picnic. Everyone pitched in to make the day a special one to remember. We played corn hole, baseball and had a great time visiting with one another. There is no replacing quality family time. Cherish your family. Your Mom's. Your Grandma's. Life is too short not to. And not just on Mother's Day, but everyday.

I love this description of a mom's job given at a County Clerk's office. And they think moms don't have the most important jobs ever.

JUST A MOM?

A woman, renewing her driver's license at the County Clerk's office

Was asked by the woman recorder to state her occupation.

She hesitated, uncertain how to classify herself.

"What I mean is," explained the recorder,

"do you have a job or are you just a......?"

"Of course I have a job," snapped the woman.

"I'm a Mom."

"We don't list 'Mom' as an occupation, 'housewife' covers it,"

Said the recorder emphatically.

I forgot all about her story until one day I found myself in the

Same situation, this time at our own Town Hall.

The Clerk was obviously a career woman, poised,

Efficient and possessed of a high sounding title like,

"Official Interrogator" or "Town Registrar."

"What is your occupation?" she probed.

What made me say it?

I do not know.

The words simply popped out.

"I'm a Research Associate in the field of

Child Development and Human Relations."

The clerk paused, ball-point pen frozen in midair and

Looked up as though she had not heard right.

I repeated the title slowly emphasizing the most significant words.

Then I stared with wonder as my pronouncement was written,

In bold, black ink on the official questionnaire.

"Might I ask," said the clerk with new interest,

"just what you do in your field?"

Coolly, without any trace of fluster in my voice,

I heard myself reply,

"I have a continuing program of research,

[what mother doesn't)

In the laboratory and in the field,

(normally I would have said indoors and out).

I'm working for my Masters, (first the Lord and then the whole family)

And already have four credits (all daughters).

Of course, the job is one of the most demanding in the humanities,

(any mother care to disagree?)

And I often work 14 hours a day, (24 is more like it).

But the job is more challenging than most run-of-the-mill careers

and the rewards are More of a satisfaction rather than just money."

There was an increasing note of respect in the clerk's voice as she

Completed the form, stood up and personally ushered me to the door.

As I drove into our driveway, buoyed up by my glamorous new career,

I was greeted by my lab assistants -- ages 13, 7, and 3.

Upstairs I could hear our new experimental model,

(a 6 month old baby) in the child development program,

Testing out a new vocal pattern.

I felt I had scored a beat on bureaucracy!

And I had gone on the official records as someone more distinguished

and indispensable to mankind than "just another Mom."

Motherhood!

What a glorious career! Especially when there's a title on the door.

Does this make grandmothers

"Senior Research associates in the field of

Child Development and Human Relations"

And great grandmothers

"Executive Senior Research Associates"?

I think so!!!

I also think it makes Aunts

"Associate Research Assistants".

Quote of the day: May your troubles be less, Your blessings be more And nothing but happiness come through your door!

My dear friend Ona and her children

2007-05-11T22:18:00.000-05:00

Interesting how the mind works. We often blame someone or something else when things don't goes as we planned for them to or as we think they should. But life is about choices. Sure there are plenty of things that happen that we have no control over at all. But a lot happens that we do have control over and do nothing about it. Sometimes, we even make it worse.

I'm off on this tan gin because I sad, mad and very disappointed with my friend's family members. My friend of 31 years died on Tuesday. She was the greatest lady. She lived and breathed her children, sometimes giving away what she didn't have to please them. In return, her children used her without mercy, net even thinking twice. They fought over things she had or conned her out of them, even when she needed to keep it for herself. Some even stole from her.

I was talking to her daughter last night. She was going on and on about her mom and how much see did for her. She didn't know I knew "The Rest of the Story." This daughter caused her mother great grief, even a nervous break down. She worked in a bank. Her mother trusted her to invest her money wisely. The daughter over a period of three years stole 75,000 dollars from her mother.

Her mother didn't press charges, voicing she must have needed it for her children. But the daughter did pay. Because it was a bank, they pressed charges. The daughter was arrest and served 18 months. She didn't learn anything. She continues to be verbally abusive and would take things without asking, justifying she deserved them. Amazing.

You pile up enough tomorrows, and you'll

find you've collected a lot of empty yesterdays.

- Professor Harold Hill (The Music Man)

When she was sick and still living at home, her children wouldn't even take her to the doctor, or offer to go to the grocery, or even offer to pick up her medication. Their idea of taking care of mom was putting her in a nursing home.

Her middle son stepped in and tried to do what was right by mom. The youngest son fought with this son until he moved out. The youngest son over dosed on drugs three to four weeks after placing mom in a nursing home. Luckily the middle son stepped back in and stayed true to mom. Of course the other siblings had nothing good to say about their brother. You go Donny!

The daughter visited mom five times while she was in the nursing home. All of which were in the last two weeks of her life. The older son visited 6-7 times, same scenario. Not a very good showing for all she did for them.

My friend can't speak for herself anymore, nor would she, but I have a hard time feeling sorry for her children when they chose to make choices that didn't include a healthy relationship with their mom when she was putting forth such a strong effort, even when she was sick.

I was so blessed to have her as my friend for 31 years. I hold great comfort in knowing she isn't suffering anymore.

A poem worth remembering:

People are unreasonable, illogical and self-centered. Love them anyway.

If you do good, people will accuse you of selfish, ulterior motives.

Do good anyway.

If you are successful, you will win false friends and true enemies.

Succeed anyway.

The good you do today will be forgotten tomorrow. Do good anyway.

Honesty and frankness make you vulnerable.. Be honest and frank anyway.

The biggest person with the biggest ideas can be shot down by the smallest person with the smallest mind. Think big anyway.

What you spend years building may be destroyed overnight. Build anyway.

People really need help but may attack if you help them. Help people anyway.

Give the world the best you have and you might get kicked in the teeth. ................Give the world the best you've got anyway. - Anonymous

God Bless

Before I was a Mom

2007-05-08T22:38:00.000-05:00

Mother's Day is fast approaching. My friend is South Carolina sent this to me. This is what true love is all about.......wouldn't you agree?

Before I was a Mom
I never tripped over toys or forgot words to a lullaby.
I didn't worry whether or not my plants were poisonous.
I never thought about immunizations.

Before I was a Mom
I had never been puked on. Pooped on. Chewed on. Peed on.
I had complete control of my mind and my thoughts. I slept all night.

Before I was a Mom
I never held down a screaming child so doctors could do tests.
Or give shots. I never looked into teary eyes and cried. I never got gloriously happy over a simple grin. I never sat up late hours at night watching a baby sleep.

Before I was a Mom
I never held a sleeping baby just because I didn't want to put them down. I never felt my heart break into a million pieces when I couldn't stop the hurt I never knew that something so small could affect my life so much. I never knew that I could love someone so much. I never knew I would love being a Mom.

Before I was a Mom

I didn't know the feeling of having my heart outside my body.
I didn't know how special it could feel to feed a hungry baby.
I didn't know that bond between a mother and her child.
I didn't know that something so small could make me feel so
important and happy.

Before I was a Mom
I had never gotten up in the middle of the night every 10 minutes to make sure all was okay. I had never known the warmth, the joy, the love, the heartache, the wonderment or the satisfaction of being a Mom. I didn't know I was capable of feeling so much, before I was a Mom.

First day on the new job.....

2007-05-07T22:19:00.000-05:00

I had a very good first day at my new job. The day went by rather quickly as I knew it would. A lot of information to digest but everyone couldn't have been kinder. I like that about being a humanitarian. The people in the job chose to help people therefore seem to have a kinder disposition.

This week will be mostly trainings, orientation and getting to know people as would be in any new job.

I'm thankful for a new beginning. A fresh start. Another chance to be happy in my job. A chance to serve the growing number of seniors that need what I have to offer. The opportunity again, to enrich the quality of another persons' life on a daily basis.

Quote for the day: God is so good. Stop and count your blessings.

God Bless.

Lots of good reading.......

2007-05-05T21:54:00.000-05:00

Interesting, I have been in the blog world every night this week but haven't taken the time to blog. I have been busy reading blogs. There seems to be a blog on just about every subject you can think of. Writing a book, it's there. Knitting, it's there, Crocheting, there, Stamping, yep, Crafts, there. You name it, it's there.

I stumbled onto a bunch of blogs about crafting and crocheting. I thought I died and went to heaven. It seemed the more I read, the more I found. I can't say I totally loved every one but that's the good thing about blogs. There is a lots to choose from. After a while, you just have to cut yourself off and go to bed.

If this is something you are interested in, I added several to my side bar. Some may not be your cup of tea but you can find a lot of links on their blogs that could be something of interest to you. And, if you still don't find what your looking for, google it. It's amazing what your find.

I'm off to read some more blogs. After I start my new job, I'm not so sure I will have the time or energy to spend so much time in the blogging world for a while.

Quote for the day: May you always have Love to Share, Health to Spare , and Friends that Care.

God Bless and Good Night.

Putting this eye thing behind me.......

2007-04-30T23:29:00.000-05:00

Well, I'm about to put my eye nightmare behind me. My friend picked me up a 9:00 this morning to go for the long awaited laser surgery. With a friend along the morning and the surgery went by really quickly and without a hitch.

It was all over so quick and the results were immediate. I put on my sunglasses and was on my way in under 90 minutes. My friend dropped me off at home and was off to complete her busy schedule.

After she was gone, I picked up the phone to call and schedule the appointment to complete the exam. I was expecting to be scheduled in a few day, maybe even a week. The reception said the doctor had an opening this afternoon. I hesitated, but only for a moment, then accepted the appointment for 2:30. I was in and out in 20 minutes. Again things could not have gone better.

I went home for a while. Had some dinner. Got on the computer. The colors are great. It looked like the typing was all bold ed. I didn't realize just how much I wasn't seeing. I also noticed my kitchen floor could sure use my attention.

I decided the day was going so well, I might as well top it off with going to the mall and order the glasses and put all this behind me.

I went in to Lens crafters and was greeted by an overly enthusiastic sails lady. I tried to keep my cool but told her I wanted to look around on my own and would come to her when I found what I was looking for. It took telling her that three times before she moved away. I know, she was only doing her job.

We were in the eye glass place about 45 minutes and the glasses are ordered and done. Amen. No more posting about glasses. No more eye appointments for a long, long time.

Besides, it will be a nice thing entering a new job without having to worry about my glasses. With a new job, I will have too many other things to worry about.

I'm off this week. I start my new job next Monday. I'm using the week to tie up loose ends, watch the little guy and take care of business. I might even get outside to work in the yard a while tomorrow while the little guy is here, (if the rain hold out).

Earth Day a little late....

2007-04-24T21:46:00.000-05:00

In honor of Earth day (a couple days late) I found this "How green is your life quiz. I'm 76% green. I think that's pretty good. It could be better, but it could be worse too. How Green Are You?

Your Life is 76% Green
You live a very green life, and you're aware of how your actions help the earth.
Of course, it's hard to be totally green. But when you make a tradeoff, you know why you're making it.
http://www.blogthings.com/howgreenisyourlifequiz
How Green Is Your Life?

On Saturday I visited my local recycle center. I've had a couple rubbermaid containers with pop tops in them for a really long time. I kept telling myself they needed to get to the recycle center to do any good. Well, I decided to take them on Saturday. I know it was the day before Earth Day but I didn't know they would be celebrating there. When I got hter they food and drinks and balloons to hand out for bring things to the recycle center. And the price to recycle was up in honor of Earth Day. My two caontainer of pop tops yielded $63 and some change. I thought the lady made a mistake in the amount she game me. I was expecting about $20 dollars. I stood around for a minute, just to make sure she knew how much money she gave me.

When the lady didn't say anything I decided it was my duty to tell the lady she may have given me too much money. So I started by telling her that I didn't realize the price paid to recycle was as much money as it was. She said the price was up due to Earth Day. I still wasn't convenced that she had not made a mistake, so I tried another approach. Before I could say anything she ask if anything was wrong. I then told her she may have given me too much money. She thanked me for my honesty but reasured me that the $63 was the correct amount. I have to tell you, I almost ran to my car at this point. And those pop tops have been sitting in the garage for over 5 years, FIVE years. Amazing.

So, clean out that garage or spare room. You never know what kind of treasure your going to come upon.

Quote for the day: Each day comes bearing many gifts, untie the ribbons.

So many blogs, so little time.......

2007-04-23T22:38:00.000-05:00

I came to my blog tonight after reading my email. I found a couple comments from Barb and Judith and wanted to thank them for being a regular reader on my blog. Thanks ladies.

I've been here reading blogs for about three and a half hours. I clicked on my daughter's blog to catch up on what's happening with the grand kids. I find an interesting blog on her site so I click on it and read a while. Then another interesting blog and off I go reading. Pretty soon a couple hours have gone by and the laundry still isn't folded. But it really is more important to visit with friends, isn't it? I visited Andrea, Judith, Barb, Debra, Mitch, Chelsea, Carolyn, Beth, and a host of other one.

This stuff is better than any novel I could ever read................

Work

The last week at this job is just beginning but I think it's going to be a very LONG week. My boss was on the war path today. The only consolation was I was out for an eye apt today for three hours. I couldn't wait to get out of there today.

My work is up for re certification. You'd think no one ever did anything but sit around with their thumbs in their mouths, the way they are running around. My motto it simple.......If you are doing it right all the time and not just when someone is coming to "Watch", you shouldn't need to do anything but DO WHAT YOU SHOULD BE DOING ANYWAY, ALL THE TIME.

My company is known for it's over doing it on the training end, to meet the MRDD standards, so we're are told. But the last couple weeks have been over the top. Sometimes going to trainings two to three times a day, just for documentation sake.

I valled to stay with this mess and see them through their inspection but I will be glad when it's done. The inspectors will be here Wednesday, Thursday and Friday. Those are the days I want to hide under a rock. The bosses will be berserk. The good thing is on Friday when they leave, I leave too. No more Lois, Yippee!!!!

Wow! It's just past midnight and it is raining cat and dogs out there. The lights flashed a couple minutes ago. I guess that's a sigh I need to get of of her and go to bed.

Thanks for listening. Love reading all the blogs. Come back and visit.

Quote for the day: Make the most of the best and the least of the worse.

God Bless

The saga continues with the glasses........

2007-04-22T21:34:00.001-05:00

Well it's Sunday night and I would like to say I have a nice, beautiful pair of glasses but that hasn't happened. I went to the eye doctor last Tuesday. And rather than him completing and eye exam so I could be on my way to get another pair of glasses and put this whole nightmare behind me..........the saga continues.

About half way through the eye eye exam, the doctor ask, "have you been having any problems lately. I could have said no, but...........One good look at my glasses and you could plainly see I was having problems. He ask if my vision was clear. I had to be honest and so no, for more reasons than I can mention.

The doctor was unable to complete the exam because he found that there was a film on the outside of each of my eyes. He said it was as a result of the surgery I had in 2005. All I could say is great................. the saga continues...........Then I ask "you mean I need more surgery before you can complete this eye exam. His answer was, no, just lazier. Then he said it was an office procedure.

The exam pretty much stopped at this point. He called and scheduled a consult for lazier. The appointment was scheduled for last Thursday. They called on Tuesday. The "new" nurse scheduled the wrong kind of evaluation. The regular nurse "Cindy" wanted me to call right away and reschedule. What she didn't say was that she was off on Wednesday. After 5 calls to schedule I find that she was off. Does it ever end?

After 5-6 calls on Thursday, I Finlay reach "Cindy". She was nice enough but she had nothing to offer me, they were booked and the only time she can get me in is at the end of May.....that's right MAY.

Let's see ...... My old job ends on the 27th, Insurance will have a major gap (three months befor the new insurance starts) .......My glasses are about to crumble at any moment and I need them for close work..........and she ask if this was an emergency? ...............Did I give her an ear full.

I have an appointment tomorrow at 11:30 am. I'd like to say it is for the procedure but it isn't. It's for a consult for laizer.

All I want is my glasses. I'm way to busy for all these details. I would like to enter my new job with this behind me.

Quote for the day: The cost of living is high, but it's worth it

God Bless.

A little of this and that....including a NEW JOB

2007-04-17T21:14:00.000-05:00

It's spring, Yippee!!
Wow! You can sure tell it's spring. I have been really busy inside and out. The weather was warm for about a week and it made me want to get outside and get some yard work done. I love the look of a freshly mower lawn. Then it got cold but there was plenty to do inside. I hope the mood stays with me for a while. I would like to get some closets cleaned as well as some work done in the basement. And I still have another shelving unit to build in the garage.

The tree removal was interesting.........
I had a tree removed in the backyard. It was a real leaner. I was worried that it would fall on someone. It was leaning into the neighbors yard and had lost a few limbs. . Turns out they didn't remove the whole tree, just the leaning parts and a few branches from a couple other trees. And Wow, is it expensive!! I can tell you the two men that did the work really earned their money. The one guy used a rope and climbed that tree like he was a squirrel or something. The other guy was the muscle of the operation. He moved most of the tree into the wooded part of the yard. Nice to have the tree taken care of. One less thing to worry about.

My only pair of glasses......
And then there is the nice big crack I have in the only pair of glasses I own. I have been wearing glasses for more years than I would care to mention but I have never had any crack like these have. I just know the reason for the crack is because I hurtled them over the fence the other week. At the time there were no visible damage. I picked them up this past Sunday and noticed a big crack in the bottom right lens. It has been all down hill from there. I have since found two more cracks. I went to the eye doctor thinking I could just get an eye exam and a new pair of glasses. Not so fast. They found a problem with the eyes. I have another appointment and another eye doctor and I am still wearing the cracked lenses, praying they don't fall apart before I can get them replaced.

Having said that about the glasses I can also share the I Have Accepted A New JOB. I will be more excited about it once my new problem with the glasses fixed. My insurance is only good for as long as the old job is....two more weeks. I have to give it to the doctors. They are doing their part and moving the appointment along and that's a blessing.

I have a new job........Yippee!!!
The new job is a welcoming blessing. I haven't liked my current job for a long time. I could have lived with the job, it was the boss I didn't like. Unfortunately we all have to work for a living. And you can't let one job go with out a replacement if you are the only one bring any money into the house. I think this job is a better match with my experience. I'm looking forward to a new beginning. I'll keep you posted on the progress.

Foster Parenting classes......
As for the foster care classes I have been doing. I have finally finished the classes. I haven't followed up on the rest of the process yet, (I've been too busy working on getting my new job and working in the yard) but I do plan on continuing with it. Time will tell what will come out of it. I'm not sure where I want to go with it. I have to wait and see what happens with the new job first.

Isn't it interesting how life can be slow and somewhat boring sometimes and then you start getting involved in something and all of a sudden life is crazy. Truth be told, I would rather life be too busy and crazy than slow and boring.

Quote for the day: Never mistake knowledge for wisdom. One helps you make a living, the other helps you make a life.

God Bless.

New Friends

2007-04-14T13:02:00.000-05:00

As you can see Charlie has some new friends. I didn't know just how he would take to the m but he seems to be doing alright. He sits and watches them for hours. Even gets a little exercise trying to catch them with his paws.
The other night I watched him get really close. It was too cute. When I turned out the light I thought he would go on about his business. It did make him jump down but then a hour later I saw him up on top of the tank. He was looking for a place to get his paws inside. When that didn't happen he just sat on top of the tank.
I was a little concerned about this for a while, but he didn't seem to be hurting anything.

I got the fish because I thought my grandson and granddaughter would enjoy them. My grandson noticed them but didn't seem to care. My granddaughter noticed them and was glad I had fish.But the cat seems to be getting the most enjoyment out of my new friends, even with the lights off.

Quote for the day:

Learn to pause or nothing worthwhile will ever catch up with you.

God Bless.

Happy Easter

2007-04-07T22:29:00.000-05:00

I am looking forward to Easter. Starting the day going to church with the family is an awesome way to begin the day.

And because it is a holiday, the family will spend the entire day together. I love spending the day with family. Surrounded by people who accept you for who you are, the way God does. Wouldn't this world be a better place if we could all do that?

Both sides of the family come together as one big happy family. I like that part too. Not having to split the day. Not having to worry about how much time with this one or that one. A better day for all.

I hope everyone reading this has a blessed holiday. Don't forget the reason for the holiday.

Quote for the day: A happy family is but an early heaven. God Bless.

Just checking in with this and that......

2007-04-01T22:03:00.000-05:00

What a beautiful weekend!

I came to the blog to talk about what a beautiful weekend it was. And in being beautiful, that doesn't always mean all sunshine. We came to the weekend with the threat of rain for both days. Saturday was the only day that really produced much rain, and even that wasn't bad.

Our church sponsored our annual Easter egg hunt for the kids in the neighborhood. Considering there are only 4-5 children who attend our church regularly, there were 65 kids that showed up for the hunt, rain and all. A nice lunch. A craft. A story telling the reason for the season, while the eggs were being hidden outside. The egg hut was a big hit. A good time had by all.

After the egg hunt, I got to spend the rest of the day with my grandson. What a joy he is to be around. He and I don't always get a lot of one on one time together. Big sister, however sweet and quite the little helper, sometimes pushes for more of the attention. It was a day of give and take. Sometimes his temper tried to get the best of the situation but grandma was too experienced for that to work. All he candy he ate (found in all the plastic eggs) didn't help but a two hour nap improved the situation immensely.

We wen t out side for a while. I even managed to get some of the garage cleaned. (I was going to take pictures and do that step by step clean up meme but I just attacked it and got it done. Besides he really enjoyed himself riding the new big wheel and playing baseball with a stick and a couple plastic baseballs. He's too cute. I love to watch him.

I'm off tomorrow to be in the opening day parade. My first. N0t my choice. I have been chosen to be one of the drivers so some of out consumers can march in the parade. It should be a really fun day. Better than being at work.

As most of you know when I first started blogging I was fairly new in my job. Well, recently I interviewed for another job. Probable better suited for me. More working with the elderly rather than adult MRDD. I have been struggling with what to do. Then I found this story on the Internet. I think the last two quotes say it all.......

The story of the five balls.
Imagine life is a game in which you are juggling five balls. The balls are called work, family, health, friends, and integrity. And you're keeping all of them in the air. But one day you finally come to understand that work is a rubber ball. If you drop it, it will bounce back. The other balls ---- family, health, friends, integrity ---- are made of glass. If you drop one of these, it will be irrevocably scuffed, niked, perhaps even shattered. And once you truly understand the lesson of the five balls, you will have the beginnings of balance in your life.

God doesn't send you patience. He just sends you moments that make you practice being patient, over and over again.

Memories don't rest in our brains, which are apt to record the details wrong anyway,
but in our hearts.

My daughter and I don't recall her childhood in exactly the same as it was, but we do share the one thing that did matter. We both remembered the love.

Our relationship revolved around superficial issues, too bad we dealt with them like children. Bickering, nitpicking, judging and competing. Never in all those years did the thought occur to me ----and I'm sure it didn't occur to my sister of mom, either---that a time was approaching when we would be forced to cast aside our differences and respond to one another with mutual respect and to demonstrate the love undeniably ingrained deep in our hearts.

Don't wait for a tradigy to come to realize it is the future that is sacrificed. Our children are the ones who suffer. Aren't we the ones responsible for the change, the ones to break the pattern.

Is is possible to change the hearts of your sibling who have hurt so much themselves? Why is in that everyone takes the easy way out? Why not agree to disagree? Family is important. Is it too late for ours?

I believe we were a victom. But that was when we were children. Shouldn't we be mature adult and want change?

To be without love is to be without grace, what matters most in life. We is so much better than I.

Folks get discouraged because God doesn't make them saints overnight. They don't understand all the years of God-work that go into making one's life a thing of beauty--a lot of shaping, a lot of smoothing, a lot of finishing. aind if we rush the process, the flaws will surely show.

If you have to choose between following money or following your heart, go with your heart.

There are a lot of things that can't be correted. Squandering your life in a job that shrivels your soul is one of them.

And last but not least: Remember the ice storm that damaged so many trees. Well, I'm still fighting that battle. I had some one here looking at what it would take to bring down a tree that is leaning a bit too much. I guess I can take restitution in that it is only one tree. What a pain........ and not cheap either!

And the quote for the day: The happiest of people don't necessarily have the best of everything they just make the most of everything that comes along their way.

A Woman's Beauty

2007-03-28T19:52:00.000-05:00

I usually wash my hair in the moning then blow it dry. I have a 50-50 chance that it will look good. I don't usually do much to it other than using the blow dryer. It was raining outside and I knew even blowing it dry was a waste of time. Too much moisture in the air. It was going to be a bad hair day.

I found this really nice devotional about women. I liked it so much, I wanted to share. Even the scripture and prayer at the end are uplifting. .

A Woman's Beauty

Contrary to what we get told by our culture and the media, the beauty of a woman is not in the outer appearance. We are forever bombarded with products that are supposed to make us more beautiful – as if we are not beautiful the way we are. Creams to either hide or eliminate wrinkles, hairstyles and dyes to color our hair to hide the ‘grey’. Make up that masks our real faces, and jewelry & clothing to make us more attractive.

None of these really matter. They’re not wrong in themselves, but our attitude behind it should not be in the need of these things to make us more attractive. If we are concerned with the way we look, and care more about grooming our outward, it may be that we are discontented with who we really are. God wants us to be concerned with the inside – the real us. This is where the real beauty is. Having a pretty face, a perfect figure and all the accessories that go along with it, means nothing in the light of eternity. It only reflects the culture we live in, and I think that culture needs to be challenged. After having my daughter (after 3 boys), I noticed the kinds of toys available to ‘girls’. A lot have to do with ‘Beauty’ & ‘Glamour’. I had to ask myself, what kind of message is this sending?

I believe we need to get passed being overly concerned with our outward appearance, and concentrate more on what’s inside. Allow the Holy Spirit to beautify the inside. For when we have God’s beauty inside, it reflects on the outside – and then we won’t need the creams and make-up to make ourselves beautiful. We will have the natural beauty of a Godly woman, and that beauty is eternal

.-M.S.Lowndes

Charm and grace are deceptive, and beauty is vain , but a woman who reverently and worship fully fears the Lord, she shall be praised!

Proverbs 31: 30

Lord may I reflect your beauty

The beauty of a Godly life

And to care not about what’s on the outside

But rather on what’s inside-

M.S.Lowndes

The Nephew

2007-03-27T19:46:00.000-05:00

I got a phone call last night from what I though was a very late telemarketer. It was long distance and usually when I get a call I don't recognize I simply don't answer it. Something told me to pick it up this time. Boy, am I glad I did. It was the nephew. I was tickled pink. He's in Iraq serving our country.

The best part of this is he has tried to call "his Aunt Dee before and I wasn't home but he kept trying until he got me. He's really thoughtful like that.

He sounded really tired. Their eight hours later than we are so when he called it was about five in the morning. I felt special.

I ask him if he got a package that was sent and his answer was, You me the 131 boxes of Girl's Scout cookies. Nooooooooo, but I'm glad you got enough cookies to share. He said they receive approximately 3-5 hundred packages a day. My answer was, there should be a couple more from us.

I know he believed he was doing the right thing by joining the service but last night he was hard pressed in believing. He sounded different. He said he was really tired. I can't even wrap my mind around want he is going through on a daily basic.

I tried to life his spirits. He wasn't buying it. His wife is expecting their first child and he won't be hope until it is three months old. The baby is due in May. He won't be home for a visit until August. My heart goes out to him.

Everyone who reads this, please take a moment and pray for the wonderful young men and women, and my nephew, who are fighting this war to ensure our freedom.

A Prayer from Ps. 17

Almighty Father, show our servicemen and women

Your unfailing love in wonderful ways.

Save them with your strength

Guard out troops as the apple of Your eye

And hide them in the shadow of your wings

Amen.

----Psalm 17:7-8

The Search Was On........

2007-03-21T22:08:00.000-05:00

I came home to my blog tonight to vent my frestrations about what a tuff day I had. My frame of mind was not where it should have been to make a positive post so I decided to go visit my regular reads before posting. By the time I got back to my blog I had a renewed look on my day. Is that anything like counting to ten before you say something you will regret? Hmmmm.

I've always been told that working in the kind of job I have takes a special person. Most days, I don't feel that way. Today wasn't one of them. The day was just plan nuts! Lots of thorns. Was it a full moon, again? I didn't think so. Part of the problem could have been we were down two staff members and up five consumers, bringing the totals to about 10 to 1, when it should have been 5-6 to 1. I was glad to put the work day behind me.

Besides, it was a beautiful day and I didn't have to go to class and was looking forward to getting outside to work in the yard. Boy, does my yard need some TLC. I still had lots of tree limbs and the like littering the yard and was looking forward to get them cleaned up. I spent about an hour and a half working outside. I felt I was making some real progress. Then It Happened. Something really stupid. Are you ready?......

I was trimming the tree behind the shed when I through a limb over the fence into the compost pile. Now I had done this what, a hundred time this even alone. But.....the last limb, while throwing it, brushed my face and took my glasses with it, OVER THE FENCE. I froze. My mind was buzzing. I didn't want to step in any direction, just in case the glasses didn't go over the fence, but were laying at my feet. I looked but, needed my glasses to find my glasses.

I stood there looking over the fence for what seemed like 30 minutes but was probable about 10 minutes. I started to worry about what I would do if I didn't find them. And how much a new pair would cost. And the trouble of finding time for an eye exam........and on and on.

I decided I wasn't going to get upset about this. What were my options. My daughter and granddaughter were at a bible study. They were out. My son in law would just be getting home. If he didn't have anything else planned, he would come if I called. I called but got no answer. My mind continued to be a buzz worrying about what I couldn't do without those glasses. I called my daughter's cell, (she still had 10 minutes before her bible study started) who ensured me my son in law was home, try again.

After explaining my situation and how stupid I felt, he promised to come ASAP. I was worried that the day light wouldn't last. I continued to look, hoping I would find the glasses before he got here, but that didn't happen. He came and within five minutes he was able to locate them in the rubble, on the other side of the fence. The blessing was that they were found quickly and without a scratch on them. It could have been much harder. I was so relieved. What a great son in law. So patient. Always willing to help. I think I thanked him too many times but I was never so glad to see those glasses.

My grandson and I kicked a ball around while my son in law adjusted the seat on a big wheel for the little guy. When they left, there was still some day light left, but I was done outside for the day.

I came in and made some really good Chicken and Rice Soup. Nothing like Chicken Soup to make it all better.

I don't have a recipe for the soup. I just added until I thought I had enough. The ingredients I used were:

Chicken Rice Soup
Two cut up, stewed chicken breasts, (I cooked the other day)
The broth from the chicken plus 2 cups of water
1/2 a pack of frozen mixed vegetables, (I used oriental)
3/4 cup of rice
parsley, salt, pepper, sage. celery seed. touch of garlic.

I simmered about 30-40 minutes. Yummy!

The soup was a good way to end a ruff day. I froze a couple servings for when I am too busy to cook. I might even take some for lunch tomorrow.

Closing Quote: If your day is hemmed with prayer, it is less likely to unravel.

Cherry Cobbler Recipe

2007-03-17T22:41:00.000-05:00

I posted the other day and said I would be back with more recipes. I found this recipe on the Internet a couple months ago and have made it several times with different cake mixes. It turns out really well and easy. You can't get any easier. If you like cherries, and are limited on time, you'll love this. There's only 4 ingredients.

I call it cobbler, they call it dump cake...........you decide.

Cherry Cobbler aka Tropical Dump Cake

1 -21 ounce can cherry pie filling
1-20 ounce can crushed pineapple in juice
1-18 ounce of box yellow cake mix (I like white cake better)
1/4 cup butter, cut into small pieces
1/2 cup melted butter

Grease 9x13x2 baking dish

Dump into baking dish and spread or smooth in this order" cherry pie filling, undrained pineapple, dry cake mix. Arrange pieces of butter (1/4 cup) on top

Pour 1/2 cup melted butter over cake mix.

That's it! Bake for 35-40 minutes. Let stand 10 minutes before serving.

Let me know what you think.

Snoring Cat...Z z z z z z .......

2007-03-14T20:48:00.000-05:00

Okay, so I'm sitting at the computer reading my regular blogs, that I haven't taken the time to read in the last few days due to trying to visit as many of the new blogs as I can from the blog party. Then I hear loud snoring. Now I know there isn't anyone else here but me and the cat, and I wasn't sleeping. You go it, it was the cat. But where was he?.......

Now what you have to understand about my cat is, he doesn't purr. Never has. My brother had him for almost a year before I got him. Apparently he was an abused cat before being taken in by my brother. He used to flench when you put your hand out to pet him. Still does sometime if he doesn't know the person well. He runs and hides if anyone comes to visit. Sometimes If not for hearing him sneeze, you wouldn't know he was around.

I know, back to the snoring. Usually when I am on the computer, the cat is up on the desk batting at my fingers as I type or he is trying to lay on the keyboard and help me move things around I didn't plan on moving. Sometimes he sleeps.

I heard the snoring and the cat wasn't on the desk. He wasn't under the desk. He wasn't even on the back of the chase lounge. There weren't very many more places to look. He had to be near to hear the snoring so clearly. I looked everywhere. Or did I.........

I noticed the closet door was open every so slightly. I opened the door and thought I would see him there but didn't. Then I turned around and the bag of fabric scraps and stuffing on the couch started moving. I nearly jumped out of my skin. The cat, Charlie, was in the bag so far it was hard to see him. I ran for the camera. Too cute.

Just 3 Words meme

2007-03-14T16:53:00.000-05:00

Found this on Decipher the fog and thought it looked like fun. The rule is that you can only answer in 3 words or less.

1. Where is your cell phone? in my purse
2. Boyfriend/girlfriend? I need one???
3. Hair? dark brown, straight
4. Your mother? lives across town
5. Your father? died in 1982
6. Your favorite item(s)? computer, crochet, books
7. Your dream last night? don't usually dream
8. Your favorite drink? cold diet pepsi
9. Your dream guy/girl? Don't have one
10. The room you are in? the den
11. Your fear? loved one dying
12. What do you want to be in 10 years? out of debt
13. Who did you hang out with last night? Safy class mates
14. What are you not? a handyman / gardener
15. Are you in love? with my grandchildren
16. One of your wish list items? Vacation, Florida Keys
17. What time is it? six twenty two
18. The last thing you did? read daughter's blog
19. What are you wearing? sweater, corduroys, socks
20. Your favorite book? My Grandfather's Blessings
21. The last thing you ate? chicken, potatoes, oranges
22. Your life? busy, happy, full
23. Your mood? quiet, calm, relaxed
24. Your friends? love them all!
25. What are you thinking about right now? Where's the cat?
26. Your car? toyato matrix 2004
27. What are you doing at this moment? reading this blog
28. Your summer? better than winter
29. Your relationship status? with family, good
30. What is on your TV screen? ch12 evening news
31. When is the last time you laughed? twenty minutes ago
32. Last time you cried? Sunday, extreme makeover
33. School? Love to learn

Not as easy to answer in only three words as you'd think but it was fun. Feel free to participate - just leave me a comment so I can come visit!

The Blue Rose Devotion

2007-03-13T20:41:00.000-05:00

My friend from Oregon sent this to me. I thought it it fitting for several reasons. I like roses, not necessarily blue, and I work with mentally challenged adults. This is a little exaggerated in describing the handicapped individual, however, the message is a good one. Special needs individuals are often misunderstood or overlooked. They are people too, with very valid feelings, and yes, much like children. But a child of god just the same. I found this very moving.

The Blue Rose

Why do I always have to be the one that starts to do laundry and there's no detergent?
I guess it was time for me to do my "Dollar Store" run, which included
light bulbs, paper towels, trash bags and Clorox.
So off I go.

I scurried around the store, gathered up my goodies, and headed for the checkout counter
only to be blocked in the narrow aisle by a young man that appeared to be about
sixteen-years-old.

I wasn't in a hurry, so I patiently waited for the boy to realize that I was there.
This was when he waved his hands excitedly in the air and declared in a loud voice,
"Mommy, I'm over here."
It was obvious now, he was mentally challenged, and also startled as
he turned and saw me standing so close to him, waiting to squeeze by.
His eyes widened and surprise exploded on his face as I said,
"Hey Buddy, what's your name?"
"My name is Denny and I'm shopping with my mother," he responded proudly.
"Wow," I said, "that's a cool name; I wish my name was Denny, but my name is Hal."
"Hal like Halloween?" he asked.
"Yes," I answered. "How old are you Denny?
"How old am I now Mommy?"
he asked his mother as she slowly came over from the next aisle.
"You're fifteen-years-old Denny.
Now be a good boy and let the man pass by."

I acknowledged her and continued to talk to Denny
for several more minutes about summer, bicycles and school.
I watched his brown eyes dance with excitement because,
He was the center of someone's attention.
He then abruptly turned and headed toward the toy section.

Denny's mom had a puzzled look on her face and thanked me
for taking the time to talk with her son.

She told me that most people wouldn't even look at him,
much less talk to him.

I told her that it was my pleasure and then I said something.
I have no idea where it came from,
other than by the prompting of the Holy Spirit.

I told her that.... There are plenty of red, yellow and pink roses
in God's garden,However.... "Blue Roses" are very rare
and should be appreciated for their beauty and distinctiveness.

You see, Denny is a "Blue Rose"
and if someone doesn't stop and smell that rose with their heart
and touch that rose with their kindness, then they've missed a blessing from God.

She was silent for a second, then with a tear in her eye she asked,
"Who are you?"

Without thinking I said,
"Oh, I'm probably just a "daffodil or maybe even a dandelion,"
but I sure love living in God's garden..

Luke 6:37
Judge not, and you will not be judged;
Condemn not, and you will not be condemned;
Forgive, and you will be forgiven

God Bless.

A Little Bit of Everything

2007-03-11T22:20:00.000-05:00

I am having a great time working my way through the different blogs at the blog party. I hope the name continue to be posted for a while. I have only made my way through about half of them but hope to be given the time to get through more. I wish all I had to do is blog and read blogs but we all know that isn't possible. The price is too great when we ignore our house and family and the chores that go with them.

Some of the sites I have visited say they are new bloggers but you would never know it by the sight of their blogs. They have several blogs, pictures, lots of links. You can sure tell who has done their homework before posting and those who have the time to put into making a great blog. I'm lucky if I get to post a couple time a week.

I loved reading the blogs about the women who blog about their children and the funny experiences they have making their way through a day. And the ones who have the same interests as I do. Or the one that have you rolling on the floor with their humor.

There should be a prize given to the two women who initially started this party a 5 minutes for mom. What a fantastic idea!. All us new blogger have been give a way to find new people. Heck, I visited people from Russia, Canada, and England! How cool is that? I also found several right here in my own community.

A big happy birthday to my family members. March is a big birthday month for us. My brother's birthday was last Sunday on the 4th. We all went dinner and had some good old fun reminiscing with him. My daughter's father in law's birthday is Tuesday, the 13th. Happy Birthday Larry. And my beautiful daughter Andrea's birthday is Next Monday, the 19th. I'm still waiting to hear what she wants for her birthday. I love celebrating birthdays. It gives the family another change to spend some quality time together.

I spent some nice quality time with my grandson last night. He gets cuter every day. My girlfriend and I played scrabble and he was on my team. He was content to placing the letters on the stand then going back to playing with his cars at my feet. When I got new letters, he again placed them on the stand. He continued to play long after we quit. Surprisingly he was able to recognize a lot of the letters. He ended up spending the night and the first thing he wanted to do when he woke up was play scrabble (his way). Go figure!.

The church service was good today. The minister talked about stepping up and offering service in the church without waiting for the minister to ask, when you know the service is needed. She gave several good examples. !. If your not happy with the way the youth are being served, step up and not only offer concerns but offer assistance and ideas to help. 2. It's easy to complain about something, it's not so easy to step forward and do something about it to make it better.

Our church may be small but it is a very caring congregation who reaches out to help each other. Keeping in mind, it is easy to become self contained. I think our church takes that next step and reaches out into the neighborhood.

I found some cool recipes I'll post next time.

May we continue to work on being more like God wants us to be. Good Bless.

The Ultimate Blog Party

2007-03-07T20:40:00.000-05:00

Hi and welcome. I’m glad I was invited to the party. I’m a fairly new blogger, a little over five months, and I’m still trying to fine my style, of blogging. Right now, I am usually all over the place. I look forward to meeting a lot of new blogger with many of the same interesting I have. I already know there are a lot of really nice people out there. I have had the pleasure of meeting some of them.

Before I go any farther, let me first say, if you find an extra key stroke or two on my post it’s my cat Charlie’s fault. He sits up on the desk at the top of my keyboard, monitoring every stroke. Sometimes adding his own.

My name is Darlene. I have one beautiful daughter, two awesome grandchildren, (who have grandma wrapped around each of their little fingers) and a really caring son in law. I have lived in the same city all my life. I am second oldest of six and only keep in touch with a couple of my siblings. I am very close to my daughter and family. I consider quality family time more important than breathing. I have a very strong faith and believe we should all do our part in helping each other out in this increasingly difficult world we live in.

I work as a program specialist (aka: Activity Director) with Adult MRDD consumers. I like to think I make a difference in the lives of the people I serve. My job is very stressful and busy and not at all like I expected when I took the job.. I have the kind of boss everyone DREADS. The consumers and other staff are what keep me there. Not to mention money to pay the bills.

My hobbies are in no particular order: The computer, my house, crafting, crocheting, sewing, reading, taking care of my cat Charlie, community service projects and spending quality time with family, especially my grandchildren (God really should have given us them first) .

My blog, I’m Thankful For The Thorns is my way of wading through this world we live in, making the best of what is given to me. Sometimes we get the rose without the thorns. Sometimes we get the rose with the thorns. And sometimes we get only the thorns. As long as God is our center, we can work our way through the thorns and enjoy the beauty in the roses.

If you want to read the history behind the name of this blog, look in my October 2006 post. It’s a nice story and I was quite touched by it.

I hope you have enjoyed your visit. Feel free to leave a comment. Come again real soon.

God Bless.

Broccoli Cheese Rice Casserole

2007-03-03T23:50:00.000-05:00

Well I started out trying to do something nice. I called my brother and offered to take him to his favorite restaurant for his birthday. The dinner was really nice. The company great. We both left the restaurant feeling kinda full and even a little sick. Later that evening we realize we both came away with a touch of food poison. Thankfully it didn't hit my brother as bad as it did me. His birthday isn't until tomorrow but you only get one birthday a year and it would suck to be sick on your birthday. I was up all night feeling really ruff. I laid around most of the day.

I was all better by the time the grands got here a 6. I so enjoy spending time with them. They put life in this house like nothing else can. We did dinner, individuals choice. We watched Peter Pan (one of the little guys favorite movies), played restaurant and had a splash party in the BIG bath tub. They both got a little carried away with that but why not. Then watched Gordy while playing with clay until mom and dad got home. Yep. A good time was had by all.

Didn't get many chores done today, but there is always tomorrow. The laundry is done and the bills are paid. At least that is something.

I mentioned a broccoli recipe in a post and was ask to put it in my blog. Thanks Barb at chelseamorning@blogspot.com for asking.

BROCCOLI-CHEESE-RICE CASSEROLE

1 c. rice or 1 sm. pkg. minute rice
1 c. chopped celery
1 c. chopped onion
1 (12 oz.) pkg. frozen broccoli
1/4 c. butter
1 (8 oz.) jar Cheez Whiz
1 can cream of chicken soup
1 can mushrooms, sliced; optional

Cook rice; saute onion and celery in butter; add cheese, soup, and broccoli with rice and onion/celery butter. Put in greased 9 x 13 casserole pan. Bake at 350 degrees for 30 minutes.

*If you don't like the Cheez Whiz any cheese that melts easily works fine. I like using Cheddar

Enjoy.

Four Things About Me.....

2007-02-27T23:55:00.000-05:00

It's been a long crazy day. I don't know why we think we need to fill every minute of every day. When I tell myself that I'm are going to slow down, it seems like life gets faster. I wonder if that is God's way of keeping us out of trouble.

I have been attending a class to find out more about Foster Parenting. I didn't expect to like it as much as I do. The teacher is real sweet. Interesting how much the class has changed since I started going. The class is held twice a week for three hours each night. There has been anywhere from 6-12 people in the class but only 3 of us have attended all classes so far. The class runs a lot like a college class only at the end of each night there is a knowledge assessment, aka: test. I don't know if I will go through the entire process and become a licensed foster parent but it has been very interesting and there are a lot of lost children who need a lot of TLC. Besides, I love children and have a lot to give.

I found this MEME in my travels on the WWW and thought it would be interesting to share. Feel free to copy it if you like it. I would be interested in knowing more abut some of you.

Four Things About Me

Four jobs I have had in my life

1. Worked in Special Education in the Public Schools with blind children and
ADHA children.

2. Worked in several Chinese Restaurants and can speak some of their language

3. I worked nights as a nurse aide for a very wealthy family

4. I spent one summer as a cook for a Day Care Center and I don’t even like to cook

Four movies I have watched over and over and over

1. SOUND OF MUSIC

2. A FAMILY THING

3. LITTLE HOUSE ON THE PRAIRIE

4. A RIVER RUNS THROUGH IT

Four places I have lived

1. Cincinnati

2. Cincinnati

3. Cincinnati

4. And oh yes, did I mention Cincinnati

Four TV shows I love to watch

1. GREY’S ANATOMY

2. NUMBERS

3. EXTREME MAKE OVER

4. HOME IMPROVEMENT / REMODELING / CARPENTRY SHOWS

Four places I have been on vacation

1. TAMPA FLORIDA

2. SOUTH CAROLINA

3. PENNSYLVANIA

4. FLORIDA KEYS

Four of my favorite foods

1. BAKED GROUPER

2. ANDREA’S BROCCOLI CASSEROLE ( AKA FRAN’S )

3. HAM SALAD

4. SWEET POTATOES

Four places I would rather be right now

1. ON VACATION ANYWHERE WITH MY FAMILY

2. IN KEY WEST FLORIDA, ON THE BEACH, WATCHING THE SUN SET ON THE OCEAN

3. SITTING ON MY FRIEND PAM’S PORCH ON A BREEZY AFTERNOON REMINISCING ABOUT OLD TIMES

4. SPENDING SOME QUALITY TIMES WITH A SICK FRIEND IN TEXAS

Four places I would like to see

1. EUROPE, FRANCE, PARIS

2. ALASKA

3. PUTT IN BAY

4. CALIFORNIA

Four things I would really like to do

1. WRITE A CHILDREN’S BOOK

2. BUY MY DAUGHTER AND SON-IN-LAW’S OLD HOUSE.

3. LOOSE SOME WEIGHT

4 LISTEN MORE, TALK LESS

Four things I'd like to change

1. MY OPINIONS / THOUGHTS WHEN I AM FEELING NEGATIVE

2 THE UNTIMELY DEATH OF MY DEAR FRIEND GROVA

3. MAKE ENOUGH MONEY TO SHARE WITH THOSE IN NEED, ESPECIALLY THE CHILDREN HERE IN OUR OWN CITY

4. CHANGE HOW BUSY OUR LIVES ARE AND SPEND MORE QUALITY TIME WITH MY DAUGHTER, AND FAMILY

Good Night and don't forget to count your blessing.

Family, Trees Limbs and Blog Changes

2007-02-25T17:37:00.000-05:00

Blog designing takes a lot of time..........and energy.....just ask my daughter....Thanks Dear!

Boy, I still have so much to learn in the blog world. If not for my daughter I would be in a world of trouble. As you can see, I have moved over to the new blogger. I decided to try on some new colors too. The pink / red was a bit much. We are still tweaking it but I like the greens and pinks better. Some how the side bar information went to the bottom of the page, but we're working on it.

You remember I talked about a new cat. Charlie. He sure is a sweetie. He is always close. Most often at my feet (keeping them warm) whenever I am at the computer. But the other night he decided to jump up on the desk. And after walking around on the keyboard and the papers that were on the desk, he decided to settle in on top of a stack of papers and take a nap. Now every time I come to the computer he jumps up and stays there as long as I do. He really is a cutie laying there but I miss him keeping my feet warm.

I spent a very nice day with my daughter and family yesterday. Well the quality time was nice. The chore at hand wasn't so nice. They were here with a chain saw to help clear some tree limbs that fell from the trees when we had our ice storm. The tree branches turned out to be a lot more than I first thought. My son in-law didn't complain. He worked hard. And it was cold. He even climbed up on the roof and removed several BIG limbs. Thanks Big Guy!

He worked outside while my daughter worked on changing the blog over to the new blogger. I was having problems with the old one. She said I would enjoy all the new perks on the new one anyway. It looks better doesn't it?

After we finished working on the blog, we all ate pizza and went outside to work on hauling the branches to the curb to be picked up on Monday. My grandson had a great time riding back and forth down the driveway in the cart once it was emptied. He's so cute and good natured.

But wait, it gets better.

My grandson opted to stay at grandma's and take a nap. Saturday evenings is our time together. He took a two and a half hour nap and was in a great mood all evening. We did dinner (he wanted to help. Said he got lonely in the room by himself.) We read stories, watched movies, colored, bathed and just enjoyed each other's company. I love kids a three. Especially one on one time, (big sister sometimes wants ALL the attention. I love them both. Nice not to have to choose.)

I did miss spending extended time with the family after church today, but wedding shopping is priority. My daughter is getting a new sister in law in September and there is much to be done.

Isn't it a blessing to watch our families grow? God is so good!

What's your meaning for Beauty?

2007-02-21T22:51:00.000-05:00

We could surf the world wide web and find most anything. I found this page that had a number of definitions of what the word Beauty means.

The old sayings being beauty is in the eyes of the beholder.......or ...... Beauty is only skin deep. Both of those hold true in most anything we see.

Check out these quotes. It puts a new prospective on what the meaning of beauty is.

People are like stained-glass windows. They sparkle and shine when the sun is out, but when the darkness sets in their true beauty is revealed only if there is a light from within. - Elisabeth Kubler-Ross

Beauty is the gift of God. - Aristotle

There is nothing that makes its way more directly into the soul than beauty.
- Joseph Addison

Everything has beauty, but not everyone sees it. - Confucius

Anyone who keeps the ability to see beauty never grows old. - Franz Kafka

The human soul needs actual beauty more than bread. - D.H. Lawrence

There is no beauty but the beauty of action. - Proverb

God Bless.

Another good devotion worth sharing........

2007-02-15T22:36:00.000-05:00

I found this devotion. It speaks for it's self.

Enjoy........

Is Your Talent Hidden?
Like in this story, we shouldn’t bury our talent. God has gifted each one of us with a particular talent. We need to use it for the benefit of the kingdom of God, so it will bless and encourage others. By allowing our talents to be utilized, not only can we have a big impact on someone else’s life, but we can also be blessed ourselves. We find great fulfillment in what we do. And we should do, for we were born for it.Our lives shouldn’t just consist of work, sleep and the menial tasks of everyday life. We need to use the talents God has given us to make a difference in our world. Even if it’s some quirky gift we think no one would be interested in, we need to find ways in which we can use it.As we use the talents God has given us, He brings increase. Just like the two others in this story, who went off and used the talents that were given to them, God brought increase. In both cases it was doubled. God will use us in far more ways than we ever dreamed of, and expand our borders so many people can be blessed as a result.May we not be like the one that did nothing with the talent given him - only to hide it. Whatever it is that God has blessed you with, consider using it to glorify God. After all, He created you to be used in this way.

Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us, let us use them...

~ Romans 12: 6

Lord I thank you for giving me

A very precious gift

Help me Lord to glorify you

With what you’ve blessed me with.
By M.S.Lowndes

Happy Valentine's Day

2007-02-14T21:41:00.000-05:00

This valentine always seems to find it way to me each Valentine's Day. I love it because it is another season to put God as the reason for the season. That's cool!

Okay, so I couldn't get the word VALENTINE to line up but you get the idea.

For God so loVed the world
That He gAve
His onLy
BegottEn
SoN
That whosoever
Believeth In Him
Should Not perish,
But have Everlasting life."
John 3:16

Happy Valentine's Day All

Carrots, Eggs or Coffee.........

2007-02-11T23:37:00.000-05:00

When I first started writing in my blog, I saw it as a place to come an vent frustrations about life and how it had treated you on any given day. As I read more of other people's blogs and become a true blogger myself, I find that sometimes that was the case but, most often I now fine blogging a true opportunity to inspire someone with what we post. At least that is what I found in the blogs I regularly read.

Becoming a blogger has opened a new window of inspiration and friends, not to mention it has been a good teaching tool. If it doesn't do anything else, it promotes us to look beyond ourselves to others. For no matter how hard your life is, there is always someone out there who is much worse. So......suck it up. Enjoy life to the fullest. Tell people how you feel about them. Make their day. God doesn't promise tomorrows.

No matter how hard we try, life sometimes gets us down. I found this inspiration and wanted to share. I think it really puts a positive prospective on life.

So are you the Carrot, the Egg, or are you the Coffee?

You will never look at a cup of coffee the same way again.

A young woman went to her mother and told her about her life and how things were so hard for her. She did not know how she was going to make it and wanted to give up. She was tired of fighting and struggling. It seemed as one problem was solved, a new one arose.

Her mother took her to the kitchen. She filled three pots with water and placed each on a high fire. Soon the pots came to boil. In the first she placed carrots, in the second she placed eggs, and in the last she placed ground coffee beans. She let them sit and boil, without saying a word.

In about twenty minutes she turned off the burners. She fished the carrots out and placed them in a bowl. She pulled the eggs out and placed them in a bowl. Then she ladled the coffee out and placed it in a bowl. Turning to her daughter, she asked, "T ell me what you see." "Carrots, eggs, and coffee," she replied.

Her mother brought her closer and asked her to feel the carrots. She did and felt they were soft. The mother then asked the daughter to take an egg and break it. After pulling off the shell, she observed the hard boiled egg. Finally, the mother asked the daughter to sip the coffee. The daughter smiled as she tasted its rich aroma.

The daughter then asked, "What does it mean?"Her mother explained that each of these objects had faced the same adversity -- boiling water. Each reacted differently. The carrot went in strong, hard and unrelenting. However, after being subjected to the boiling water, it softened and became weak. The egg had been fragile. Its thin outer shell had protected its liquid interior, but after sitting through the boiling water, its inside became hardened. The ground coffee beans were unique, however. After they were in the boiling water, they had changed the water .
"Which are you?" she asked her daughter.

"When adversity knocks on your door, how do you respond? Are you a carrot, an egg or a coffee bean?"

Think of this: Which am I? Am I the carrot that seems strong, but with pain and adversity do I wilt and become soft and lose my strength? Am I the egg that starts with a malleable heart, but changes with the heat? Did I have a fluid spirit, but after a death, a breakup, a financial hardship or some other trial, have I become hardened and stiff?

Does my shell look the same, but on the inside am I bitter and tough with a stiff spirit and hardened heart? Or am I like the coffee bean? The bean actually changes the hot water, the very circumstance that brings the pain. When the water gets hot, it releases the fragrance and flavor. If you are like the bean, when things are at their worst, you get better and change the situation around you.

When the hour is the darkest and trials are their greatest, do you elevate yourself to another level?

How do you handle adversity? Are you a carrot, an egg or a coffee bean? May you have enough happiness to make you sweet, enough trials to make you strong, enough sorrow to keep you human and enough hope to make you happy.

The happiest of people don`t necessarily have the best of everything; they just make the most of everything that comes along their way.

The brightest future will always be based on a forgotten past; you can`t go forward in life until you let go of your past failures and heartaches.

When you were born, you were crying and everyone around you was smiling. Live your life so at the end, you`re the one who is smiling and everyone around you is crying.

It`s easier to build a child than repair an adult.

May we all be the COFFEE!

God bless.

A simple act of kindness....

2007-02-07T18:36:00.000-05:00

Just about everybody has a story to tell about the snow we got last night in Cincinnati. Most don’t like it and wish we would never get snow. Personally I love it. I can’t say I like diving in it or cleaning up after it is my favorite thing to do. But with patience and the right equipment, even that isn’t bad.

I look at the snow as a work of God. Who else could cover the entire area we view with such beauty. Not only is it beautiful to look at, it tends to bring out the beauty in people.

Yesterday I watch several people have panic attacks caused by worrying about how they were going to get home? The conditions of their cars and how hard it was going to be to drive in the snow; how long it would take them to get home; who will be there to greet their children if they couldn’t get home in a timely manner, You get the idea. Reaching out to our fellow co-worker was the only soothing medicine for the situation.

And many did. I witnessed people working together, cleaning off each others cars, offering rides, working late so their co-worker could get home to their children.. Even the bosses were a more visible support.

On the way home, I witnesses people pushing cars that were stuck, assisting people walking, And even later, calling to check on family member to see if they need help digging out or if they got home safely. It’s often easy to be kind with family. Not so with strangers.

Somewhere in this day and age we have lost the simple act of kindness. It’s too bad we have to have a major snow storm, and auto accident or a calamity for people to trust enough in each other to reach out to help and just be neighborly. The world we live in has caused us to lose trust in people and that’s too bad.

One of the things I want to do in this new year is to reach out more to others in need. Some people think reaching out means digging into our wallets. And maybe that is true sometimes. However there is a lot more to it than that... Small acts of kindness done by many people could make incredible changes in our world, especially in our children.

Our children are our future. We need to find a way to spread some of that kindness and caring on an everyday basis. We need to find a way to get some of the guns off the streets and put a lid one the use of the drugs available to our young people, and find a way for them to end this war. Whatever happened to their role models?

Okay, so I know I have gotten way off the subject here, or maybe not. Kindness needs to start with the older generation. A good role model can put a child back on the right track. The young families are much needier than the older generation use to be in a different sorta way. Trust and being kind are real issues.

Let’s not forget to reach out to the young families. Offer to take them to church with you. Help them find ways to build trust in something other than the guns and drugs.

When do we as a society come together with that act of kindness? What are you doing?

Devotion worth saving.......

2007-01-31T20:57:00.000-05:00

I found this devotion while poking around in the computer. Wow! Tt is worthy of sharing and remembering. I can't say I have ever seen is written quite this way but when you put the pieces together, hopefully our quilts will be filled with hole that reflect how worthy we are in the eyes of God.

Devotion worth saving.......

Quilt of Holes

As I faced my Maker at the last judgment, I knelt before the Lord along with all the other souls. Before each of us laid our lives like the squares of a quilt in many piles; an angel sat before each of us sewing our quilt squares together into a tapestry that is our life. But as myangel took each piece of cloth off the pile, I noticed how ragged and empty each of my squares was. They were filled with giant holes. Each square was labeled with a part of my life that had been difficult, the challenges and temptations I was faced with in every day life. I saw hardships that I endured, which were the largest holes of all. I glanced around me. Nobody else had such squares. Other than a tiny hole here and there, the other tapestries were filled with rich color and the bright hues of worldly fortune. I gazed upon my own life and was disheartened. My angel was sewing the ragged pieces of cloth together, threadbare and empty, like binding air. Finally the time came when each life was to be displayed, held up to the light, the scrutiny of truth. The others rose; each in turn, holding up their tapestries. So filled their lives had been. My angel looked upon me,and nodded for me to rise.My gaze dropped to the ground in shame. I hadn't had all the earthly fortunes. I had love in my life, and laughter. But there had also beentrials of illness, and wealth, and false accusations that took from me my world, as I knew it. I had to start over many times. I often struggled with the temptation to quit, only to somehow muster the strength to pick up and begin again. I spent many nights on my knees in prayer, asking for help and guidance in my life. I had often been heldup to ridicule, which I endured painfully, each time offering it up tothe Father in hopes that I would not melt within my skin beneath the judgmental gaze of those who unfairly judged me. And now, I had toface the truth. My life was what it was, and I had to accept it for what it was. Irose and slowly lifted the combined squares of my life to the light. Anawe-filled gasp filled the air. I gazed around at the others who stared at me with wide eyes. Then, I looked upon the tapestry before me. Light flooded the many holes, creating an image, the face of Christ. Then our Lord stood before me, with warmth and love in His eyes. He said, "Everytime you gave over your life to Me, it became My life, My hardships, and My struggles. Each point of light in your life is when you stepped aside and let Me shine through, until there was more of Me than there was of you." May all our quilts be threadbare and worn, allowing Christ to shine through! Please share this with someone you love, care about or even someone who needs Jesus in their heart. They may scoff, but at least theseed has been planted, and God will do the rest. May God bless you today and Forever! And so ye are blessed!

God determines who walks into your life....it's upto you to decide who you let walk away, who you let stay, and who you refuse to let go.

When there is nothing left but God that is when you find out that God is all you need.

Father, God bless all my friends in whatever it is that you know they may need this day! And may their life be full of your peace, prosperity and power as they seek to have a closer relationship with you.

Amen.

Hope you all enjoy this as much as I did. God Bless.

We are so blessed

2007-01-29T17:43:00.000-05:00

Cincinnati is a town that usually has failry mild winters. Infact our winter has been so mild up to now, people were out exercising , even without their coats. We have had a couple days that made you want to shiver but with February right around the corner we need to get winter out of our systen. Get a little and and make a few snow angels in the snow . And even if we don't like it, or want it, we need to get a little exercise by doing our share of shoveling of the white stuff . Then when March comes we can be asured that the winter has had it's fill and Spirng can spring into action.

Ah, Spring. Sounds nice. Today we got up to a tempature of 12 degree. Do we have room to complain, NO. Some people are dealing the worry of how they are going to pay to keep their homes warm. And still others have had frozen water pipes for three weeks now. I can't even wrap my mind around not having water for ONE week, let alone Three.

Bless us Lord. Forgive us when we complain. For without the differences in the weather and seasons, life wouldn't be near as interesting. With the changes in the seasons we are blessed to witness God's hand at work. Help those who have money woe about the rising cost of fuel to heat their homes. Help them to find a way. Help us to count our belssing each day and remember the mericles of good health, the beauty of a rose, the birth of a child, the healing of a sick man. God, we know you walk with us even when we complain and you believe in us even when we stop believing in ourselves.

God is so good. We are so blessed.

Opra and Billy Graham

2007-01-27T00:32:00.000-05:00

I found this while surfing the net and thought it was a good thing to pass on. If you like Opra and Billy Graham you'll like this. The interesting part about these two people is that they are self made icons. They are both exceptional people. Both, taking a different approach on life by reaching out to to help people. And not just the one's that are in their neighborhood but nation wide. If we could all practice the giving spirit that to of them have, I just know this world would be a better place.

I tried to find out who wrote this but nothing was given. If anyone knows, please let me know. I would love to give them credit for this. Enjoy:

Billy Graham and Oprah

Last year I watched Billy Graham being interviewed by Oprah Winfrey on television. Oprah told him that in her childhood home, she use to watch him preach on a little black and white TV while sitting on a linoleum floor.

She went on to the tell viewers that in his lifetime Billy has preached to twenty-million people around the world, not to mention the countless numbers who have heard him whenever his crusades are broadcast. When she asked if he got nervous before facing a crowd, Billy replied humbly, "No, I don't get nervous before crowds, but I did today before I was going to meet with you."

Oprah's show is broadcast to twenty-million people every day. She is comfortable with famous stars and celebrities but seemed in awe of Dr. Billy Graham. When the interview ended, she told the audience, "You don't often See this on my show, but we're going to pray." Then she asked Billy to close in prayer. The camera panned the studio audience as they bowed their heads and closed their eyes just like in one of his crusades.

Oprah sang the first line from the song that is his hallmark "Just as I am, without a plea," misreading the line and singing off'-key, but her voice was full of emotion and almost cracked.

When Billy stood up after the show, instead of hugging her guest, Oprah's usual custom, she went over and just nestled against him. Billy wrapped his arm around her and pulled her under his shoulder. She stood in his fatherly embrace with a look of sheer contentment..

I once read the book "Nestle, Don't Wrestle" by Corrie Ten Boom. The power of nestling was evident on the TV screen that day. Billy Graham was not the least bit condemning, distant, or hesitant to embrace a public personality who may not fit the evangelistic mold. His grace and courage are sometimes stunning.

In an interview with Hugh Downs, on the 20/20 program, the subject turned to homosexuality. Hugh looked directly at Billy and said, "If you had a homosexual child, would you love him?" Billy didn't miss a beat. He replied with sincerity and gentleness, "Why, I would love that one even more." T

he title of Billy's autobiography, "Just As I Am," says it all. His life goes before him speaking as eloquently as that charming southern drawl for which he is known.

If, when I am eighty years old, my autobiography were to be titled "Just As I Am," I wonder how I would live now? Do I have the courage to be me? I'll never be a Billy Graham, the elegant man who draws people to the Lord through a simple one-point message, but I hope to be a person who is real and compassionate and who might draw people to nestle within God's embrace.

Do you make it a point to speak to a visitor or person who shows up alone at church, buy a hamburger for a homeless man, call your mother on Sunday afternoons, pick daisies with a little girl, or take a fatherless boy to a baseball game?

Did anyone ever tell you how beautiful you look when you're looking for what's beautiful in someone else?

Billy complimented Oprah when asked what he was most thankful for; he said, "Salvation given to us in Jesus Christ" then added, "and the way you have made people all over this country aware of the power of being grateful."

When asked his secret of love, being married fifty-four years to the same person, he said, "Ruth and I are happily incompatible."

How unexpected. We would all live more comfortably with everybody around us if we would find the strength in being grateful and happily incompatible.

Let's take the things that set us apart, that make us different, that cause us to disagree, and make them an occasion to compliment each other and be thankful for each other. Let us be big enough to be smaller than our neighbor, spouse, friends, and strangers.

Every day, may we Nestle, not Wrestle!

I hope you all enjoyed this as much as I did. :>)

Read other people's blogs.....Who me?

2007-01-23T19:43:00.000-05:00

I spend a lot of time reading. Not necessarily novels but almost anything else. Lately it has been a lot of blogs. I don't always comment on then, but that doesn't mean I don't enjoy them. There are a lot of nice people out there. And funny. Sometime I'm rolling on the floor. Sometimes I am brought to tears. And still other times I am so inspired by a blog that it stays with me for several days, if not longer.

It's nice to have the time to read all those blogs. Sometimes I spend several hours a night playing in the blog world. I often find myself bringing some of those people into my day. Let's face it, there is a lot to be learned out there. How better to learn something than from someone who has been there, done that. Think someone reading that blog doesn't learn from it. Sure they do. And the tips and advice are endless. If you don't like what your are reading just closed it down and go to another one. There is lots to choose from.

I know the new bloggers (like me) are important. We have to start somewhere. But the seasoned bloggers and all the wonderful link they attach to their post are priceless learning tools and cause us to stop and not take ourselves too seriously. I visited Barb's blog at A Chelsea Morning and clicked on at least ten different links. Some were other people's blogs, some were devotions and some were to teach you to be a better blogger. In Flight Song, she is a more serious blogger with much to be learned about life. I especially enjoyed reading about her family and their experiences. I like reading my daughter's blogs too, Decipher the fog. She is a great christian and not afraid to show it in her post. I like her humor and writing style. Besides. I like reading about the grandchildren. I learn everyday things that sometimes get lost in the scuffle of a busy day.

I follow about 20-25 blogs. I don't always stay with them as closely as I want but I know they are always there when I'm ready and have the time to read them.

I have to say when I was first heard about my daughter's blog, (that was the first one I read) I was more than concerned. My mind was full of questions.....Who is reading this stuff?.....Can they link back to her?....Is she safe?.....etc.......etc. As I kept reading I found I got a lot of pleasure in reading it. I started reading other blogs and found that sure you have to be careful what you post due to the wierdo's out there. But that doesn't me you can't have a good time and meet some really nice people in the process. I joined the club in October and I think I like it here.............. :-)

Our first real snow for the season

2007-01-21T16:06:00.000-05:00

Wow~ If you live in Cincinnati and need help believing in God, just take a good look outside. Only God himself can show such beauty. They told us we were going to get 2-4 inches of snow. And that may well be what we got but in cleaning up after it, it always seems like more.

Church was called off today. I watched it on TV instead. Well, actually I watch Schuller every Sunday anyway but I watched several others too. Kinda nice to have an unexpected day to be home. Did I get anything extra accomplished, well no..........but it was still nice to be home. It almost made me want to go out and play in it (and if the grandchildren would have been here, I may have) but I didn't. I said almost.

Instead I spent the days relaxing. I curled up with a book I got for Christmas and finished my laundry. I must have gone to the window a 100 times to look out at the beautiful snow. I baked a pineapple upside down cake and made a pot of chili. I invited the family over for dinner. (they all have four-wheeled drive vehicles) and they accepted. I love family time. When the house is full of conversation and everyone is having a good time and not worrying about life's stresses.

I used the snowblower on the driveway. (Does that count as work?) My son-in-law offered to come and help clear the drive if I needed him. I was so grateful. I like being independent but sometimes you just need to reach out when a family member offers. I was able to get the snowblower going on my own. I was glad Matt didn't have to come out in the cold to help me, even though I know he would have in a heartbeat. Thanks Buddy!

Isn't it nice to have family you can count on when you have a problem? I appreciate them so much and try not to abuse their kindness. I also try to be there when they get in a pinch too. That''s the kinds of things I always thought families should be like. Not because they felt they had to help but because the wanted to. I like that!

I hope the melted snow doesn't freeze tonight. I want to be able to get out of the driveway in the morning to go to work without worrying about sliding all over the place. If it does freeze, I'm glad most of the snow is off the driveway.

I shouldn't complain. I have been emailing a new friend in Oregon and she says it has snowed five or six times since the first of the year. Big snows like 10 and 12 inches at a time. And to top that off, they were without water for two weeks because the pipes froze, and it's the third time this winter. And even if she says she is used to it, it still sucks.

Tomorrow they say the weather should be up over freezing so most of the snow should melt in the afternoon. Face it, Cinciinnatians don't get enough snow to know how to deal with this stuff.

Family and Friends are Important

2007-01-21T00:36:00.000-05:00

I've been thinking. Isn't it interesting how everyone, including me, find it important and necessary to contact people during the holidays we haven't talked to all year. We sent charistmas cards and make phone call and even get together for holiday parties and short visits. Then after the holidays have passed we all go about our merry way, back doing the same things we did before the holidays came. Most of the people we made contact with is but a memory, not to be remembered until next year.

Something I have aspired to do this new year is to stay closer to my family and friends. I am close with my immediate family but don't always do what I should with my friends and distant family. I want to try to change that. Not all of my family may be open to that, but I will at least try. That's all I can do.

I called a couple friends this week in hopes of getting together for a visit, socializing, dinner, whatever. I was quickly told that they were so busy with work, church, school and a number of other things and could we do it next week or in a couple weeks. I was disappointed but not surprised.

Life is too short. Make changes now before it is too late and you regret not keeping up with your family and friends. I will follow up with my two friends. I don't give up easily.

I reconnected with my brother last May, after an eight month absence and him not talking or returning my calls, while visiting family members in Florida. I'm glad I did. I get a lot of pleasure out of our friendship and his company. We spent the day together doing inventory at my sister's store. Working? Yes. Was is fun? Yes. Are we better people for having spent time together? Yes. He's a funny guy. We get along well together. We are more alike than either one of us want to admit.

He gave me a big scare this weekend. He didn't answer any of my calls. We were scheduled to go to work some more on the inventory and then go to dinner on Friday evening. I kept calling several numbers all day but got on answer. Long story short. He works nights and was catching up on his sleep and the cell phone was off. I was ready to go break the door down and find out if he was okay.

Don't forget to maintain regular contact with the ones you love. Even the ones out of town. If they don't call you, you call them. They may be lonely or have had a bad day and need that call. They will thank you later, hopefully.

Thanks to all my family and friends who maintain regular contact with me. I love and appreciate you one and all. Thank you.

Still tweaking, What do you think?

2007-01-21T00:24:00.000-05:00

Made more changes to the blog today. I should say my daughter did. We were sitting in two different homes and still able to make changes and check them. Isn't technology great?

The background color is better that the black was. I'm trying on the red background for a while. The comments from Barb were encouraging. Thank you.

Isn't it great we can make changes until it suits us? Well some of us can change it, some of us have to have help. Thanks Andrea. I appreciate you and your talents.

A new look in the works

2007-01-19T18:59:00.000-05:00

I just spent a nice day with my daughter. She is always so busy with the children but we were able to find some quality time today. She is smarter than she gives herself credit for in working with the blog. She is the reason I can and have made changes in the look of my blog. (You think I can do this alone, not!) There is a lot more to this blogging thing than I ever thought. Kind of fun working on it. You learn more than you think, even if I was only watching while she did all the work. We still need to tweak it a bit but I think it's really coming along. Thanks Babe.

I called off work today. I felt bad about calling in but only for a moment.I got up a 4 in the morning feeling kinda blah. My head was pounding. I took some medicine and went back to bed to see if I would feel any better at the real time I was to get up. I woke at seven, called in to work and went back to bed. I started feeling some better about eleven. I called my daughter, who was busy as usual. Long story short, we went to Wally world for a few errands and had lunch together at home with the boys. When the kids went down for naps she offered to help me with my blog. I gladly accepted.

Tomorrow should be a busy day. It's back to my sister's store and more inventory. My brother and I worked on it for about 10 hours last weekend. I'd say we have at least another 20 to 30 hours to go. We might get it done by Easter. Not really. It needs to be done by the end of the month. We only work on it on the weekends. We both work other jobs. My brother watches the store several hours a day. There isn't much going on. The boating season doesn't open up again until May. My sitter is out of town and isn't due back until mid February. I got a whisper the other day that the store may be sold. (Cross your fingers.) Which may mean the boating season is over for them, at least on the merchant's end of things.

Grandparenting is sweet...No thorns here.

2007-01-17T22:41:00.000-05:00

I decided shortly after the christmas holiday that I need to spend more time with the grandchildren. I called my daughter and proposed my idea. A plan was set in motion at least for the granddaughter. We would spend two hours together every week on Wednesdays. I would pick her up from an after school activity and take her home two hours later.

The first week we just hung out at home making plans of future visits. We cooked dinner, worked on her homework and watched the Tube. The time went by too quickly but was a real good start for the new year.

Plans for the little guy is still forthcoming. One step at a time.

The second visit was spent at the library. A place we both could spend a week in without even thinking about it. We got a movie, "Yours, Mine and Ours" and several books. She wanted to rush to my house and view as much of the movie we could before it would be time for her to go home. As usual she didn't want to turn the movie off but that wasn't unusual. Another sweet visit with a beautiful soul.

No set schedule for the little guy yet but we had a nice evening visit on Friday night. I babysat both grands. I think having grandchildren gives another chance to get it right. Not that I feel I did a bad job with my daughter. Being a grandparent gives us an opportunity to focus more on the person rather than the everyday stresses in getting the parenting job done. The hard stuff is left up to the parent while grandparents can focus on some of the fun stuff. I like that.

I just spent another delightful couple hours with my granddaughter. How fast they grow up. At 10 she acts like she is at least 20. We went to the book store and had a Chai Tea. A first for her. I don't think she liked it as much as she had hoped but you wouldn't have known it by her attitude. We sat for 15 or 20 minutes looking at magazines and talked as if we were both adults. Then after a 20 minute browse through the rest of the store and a few treasures found it was off to take her home. Another nice visit. I hope we will always feel the love and admiration that was felt between us tonight, forever. The one on one attention brings out the beautiful person she is and the great job her mom is doing in raising her.

I''m beginning to going to look forward to our Wednesday visits. I have to come up with another good idea for next weeks visit. If your reading this, I'm open for suggestions.

"In five years, will this matter?"

2007-01-09T23:58:00.000-05:00

I got this in an email from my friend in South Carolina. She didn't disclose who was the writer but I thought is was nice. In reading it I thought of growing older and how we are pushed to become wiser (or not) by the lessons and experiences we learn in life. The best label to give this would be, "In five years, will this matter?" That's #25 on the list. Thank you, whoever you are who wrote this. Enjoy....

1. Life isn't fair, but it's still good.
2. When in doubt, just take the next small step.
3. Life is too short to waste time hating anyone.
4. Don't take yourself so seriously. No one else does.
5. Cry with someone. It's more healing than crying alone.
6. You don't have to win every argument. Agree to disagree.
7. A writer writes. If you want to be a writer, write.
8. It's OK to get angry with God. He can take it.
9. Save for retirement starting with your first paycheck.
10. When it comes to chocolate, resistance is futile.
11. Make peace with your past so it won't screw up the present.
12. It's OK to let your children see you cry.
13. Don't compare your life to others. You have no idea what their journey is all about.
14. If a relationship has to be a secret, you shouldn't be in it.
15. Everything can change in the blink of an eye. But don't worry; God never blinks.
16. Life is too short for long pity parties. Get busy living, or get busy dying.
17. You can get through anything if you stay put in today.
18. Pay off your credit cards every month.
19. It's never too late to have a happy childhood. But the second one is up to you and no one else.
20. When it comes to going after what you love in life, don't take no for an answer.
21. Burn the candles, use the nice sheets, wear the fancy . Don't save it for a special occasion. Today is special.
22. Over prepare...then go with the flow.
23. Be eccentric now. Don't wait for old age to wear purple.
24. The most important organ is the brain.
25. No one is in charge of your happiness except you.
26. Frame every so-called disaster with these words: "In five years, will this matter?"
27. Always choose life.
28. Forgive everyone everything.
29. What other people think of you is none of your business.
30. Time heals almost everything. Give time some time.
31. However good or bad a situation is, it will change.
32. Your job won't take care of you when you are sick. Your friends will. Stay in touch.
33. Believe in miracles.
34. God loves you because of who God is, not because of anything you did or didn't do.
35. Whatever doesn't kill you really does make you stronger.
36. Growing old beats the alternative -- dying young.
37. Your children get only one childhood. Make it memorable.
38. Read the Psalms. They cover every human emotion.
39. Get outside every day. Miracles are waiting everywhere.
40. If we all threw our problems in a pile and saw everyone else's, we'd grab ours back.
41. Don't audit life. Show up and make the most of it now.
42. Get rid of anything that isn't useful, beautiful or joyful.
43. All that truly matters in the end is that you loved.
44. Envy is a waste of time. You already have all you need.
45. The best is yet to come.
46. No matter how you feel, get up, dress up and show up.
47. Take a deep breath. It calms the mind.
48. If you don't ask, you don't get.
49. Yield.
50. Life isn't tied with a bow, but it's still a gift.

~~IN GOD WE TRUST ~~

Christmas pictures and More.....

2006-12-29T21:07:00.000-05:00

I have been working the better part of the evening to figure out how to post pictures on the blog. To all you bloggers out there who have these fantastic blogs with lots of pictures and links and anything else you can think of, God Bless you. You must not have any kids or a husband or even a life. Doing this is interesting and fun but is also a real time sucker.

My girlfriend ask me to post some of the christmas pictures on the blog so she could see them. I never dreamed it would take all night. The position and placement of the pictures aren't quite what I expected but I will get better at it with practice.

We are so blessed to have family members who love and care for us enough to want to make gifts for us or spend time looking for just the right gift. Our family is that kind of family. We all spend hours shopping for or making that special gift that will reach in and hold the heart of the receiver. I love to watch the expression on their faces, for a look is worth a million words.

The first picture is the tree after everyone got there. Makes the big tree look small. They say big things come in small packages but the saying also is little things come in big packages.

The second picture is of me opening a cordless weed eater. The great idea of my son-in-law. I needed one really bad but would never have ask for one because they are so expensive and money was tight for all this year.

The next picture is of my grandson and his dad. The little guy is the most appreciative three year old I have ever known. No matter what it is he stops to really look at the gift and then turns to the giver and thanks them before moving on. I think there is something to be said for that in a child these days.

The last two picture are of gifts I made for them. My granddaughter liked the sweater so much she ask if she could put it on right out of the box. We (her and I)have a thing for snowmen. Well, I have a thing for snowmen that seems to have rubbed off on my granddaughter. My grandson has a thing for sports. He is young to be getting a lamp but I couldn't resist. I think the lamp will be a nice addition to his room. Maybe on his desk.

In watching the family. I wish we could all come together more and be as happy and contented everyday. Too bad life keeps up moving at a pace we find difficult to keep up with. Making the time, is the secret. We never know what life holds for any of us. We need to make the most of it.

Most of us are so relieved to get Christmas behind us that we often forget how nice the actual holiday really was.

Well, there are only two more days left of this year and we can start all over again. I hope next year is a little easier and kinder than this year was. Change is important to keep us focused and grounded but this year has been a bit much.

My hopes for the new year is to spend more time with the grandchildren, become more involved in my community, eat healthier, lose some weight, get organized, and love the people around me more. Life is too short.

And to close this post, let us all say a prayer for the service men and women. My nephew will be deployed in January. Even though we are aware that this war has taken it tole on too many families. When it reaches out to your own family, the impack is quite different. God Bless the service men and women. God be with you. God Bless America.

A walk through our holiday season

2006-12-28T21:29:00.000-05:00

Well, it's the 28th and we can officially say Christmas is behind us, right? That sound good but your aren't the one with two Christmas trees to take down and a heap of decoration to get down, or maybe you do. At least we can say the rush is over, well unless you enjoy the after Christmas shopping in the crowds. Not me! Bargains or not, I don't go.

My Christmas Party this was especially nice. I had it earlier than usual and the weather could not have been better. I (We)invited 20 of our friends and 12 not counting my daughter and me, came. I consider that a pretty good turnout. Everyone seemed to have a great time. And no birthday surprises this year. The treats were made by my daughter. She is a Pampered Chef rep and did a great job.

My Birthday was a quiet one this year. I spent the entire day with all the people I love, my family. A little eating and gifts, a little shopping for Christmas, a little socializing and a little relaxing. What more is there?

My friend's B-day. Spent a lovely evening with my friend. We've known each other for at least 21 years. Our daughter were friends in school. I spent a lot of time with her. Kinda like a sister. I like that. Her husband comes with the package, as did her son. They made a great dinner and provided some awesome company. I have miss socializing with them. I hope we can be close again like we used to be.

The daughters have come back together and have a lot in common. They talk regularly. I'm glad for that. They used to be quite close. When they got tired of each other they would play with the younger brother. He always though he was older then they were, or a least he wouldn't be outdone. Wow! They are all married and have children of their own. I feel old!

Christmas party for work was a bust. I went in hopes of meeting other people that work at the same company that you don't get to see any other time. I sat at a table by my self for at least an hour. I didn't know anyone, except the person I turned the invitation to. No one from my department came. Several PCA's showed up about the time I had decided to leave. I ended up staying for another hour. I may not go next year. The only entertainment was very loud music and dancing. Neither of which I enjoy.

I finally finished the sweater for my granddaughter. Turned out well. She loved it.
I finished the baseball and glove lamp. My grandson is still quite young. Not sure he liked it. I know he liked the cars movie blanket I made the and Cars movie. That's all he talked about. He got a really cool baseball game from the other grandparents. I think they both got so much, apreciation is difficult at best to see at times. They are both so blessed to have so many people around them that love them.

Christmas Eve was really nice. We came together for some more good family time. If someone told me I could have no Christmas gift and could only have family time, I would be perfectly happy. The jewel of time often slips away from us too quickly, especially the children. They are babies, 5th graders and then before you know it they are grown. Seize the moment and they say. The in-laws, my friend too, prepared a really nice dinner. Followed by Christmas eve service at church. They all went back to the in-laws, I went to see my brother across town.

The visit with my brother was a good one. I think he really needed a friend. With a new job and a new apartment and issues with his car, he had very little money to spend on Christmas presents. Pride made him stay home. I couldn't allow that to happen. Besides, he called me and knew I would come. We watched a movie and talked a little and I was off to the other side of town again. I had lots to do. Everyone was coming to my house for Christmas. Cooking, Cleaning, Wrapping those last minute gifts, More cooking.

Christmas was lovely. Lots of socializing and quality time. My favorite part. Dinner turned out well. Lots of choices. Ham, deviled eggs, mashed potatoes, suckatash, sweet potato casserole, greenbean casserole, and Fran's great jello. Something for everyone. Topped of with pumpkin pie and cherry pie and even homemade chocolate chip cookies. Not much left when all was said and done. Then the gift. A great part of our Christmas. Everyone spent a lot of time thinking about each other, finding treasures, homemade and others bought, trying to please their family members. I love that part too. I wanted to post some pictures but I couldn't get it to work for me. Guess I need a tutorial from my daughter. She's pretty good at this stuff.

A few quiet days alone. The family is off to see the other family members on the other side for a few days. Grandma is waiting to see them. A safe journey to all. Another visit with my brother the day after Christmas. He sure has a way with movies. We watched two this time. I took leftovers from the Christmas meal. He loved them, as I knew he would.

And If we could only get through the holidays without the sad notes.....The memories of loved one gone....The ones God finds necessary to take home during the holiday season. Pray for my friend Grova's daughters. My friend Grova died last year during the holidays. This year her daughters are trying to get through yet another trudge. Vicki's love died of self inflicted notions.....sad.....very sad.

And last, A moment of prayer for a couple of dear souls....

Just got a call from the Prayer Chain from my church about a long time member in the hospital who is very ill and may not make it through the night. Death is a hardship at any time of the year but at Christmas time. Say a prayer for his wife, a really sweet lady who could use a prayer right now.

Christmas Memories

2006-12-10T23:44:00.000-05:00

I found this on Big Moma's Blog and thought it was cool. Hope you enjoy it.....

Christmas Memories

1. Egg Nog or Hot Chocolate? Egg Nog. I like them both but rarely have either.

2. Does Santa wrap the presents or just sit them under the tree? Wrap them. Santa only comes to the immediate families house. Grandma's can do what they want.

3. Colored lights or White? Depends. I like the colored lights on my own tree but I like the white ones as outside decorations.

4. Do you hang misletoe? No
5. When do you decorate for Christmas? Usually the first week in December but this year I did it the weekend on Thanksgiving.

6. What's you favorite holiday dish, excluding dessert? My daughter's mother-in-law's red jello with strawberries and cranberries.

7. Favorite holiday as a child? Easter because you got a new outfit of clothes and a new pair of shoes. And because we went to church and learned the spiritual reasons for the holiday then had a big egg hunt.

8. When and how did you learn the truth about (or if you don't remember) What is your
favorite Santa memory? My favorite Santa memory is when my daughter was almost three. My X-brother-in-law dressed up like Santa and came to visit our home. He was so gentle and kind. He made her feel like the special little girl she was.

9. Do you open a gift on Christmas Eve? No. Not usually. We spend Christmas Eve at my daughter's in-laws. We have a nice dinner then go to church together.

10. How do you decorate your Christmas Tree? Colored lights and lots of homemade and special ornaments

11. Snow, love it or hate it? Love to look at it and play in it. Hate to shovel and clean up after it.

12. Can you Ice Skate? Nope. Only tried once when I was 10. Had the skates on for about 10 minutes. A kid came and knocked me down and broke my glasses. Haven't been on the since.

13. Do you remember your favorite gift? I have two. A quilt Peggy ( my daughter's God Mother) gave me for Christmas when I had long since given up on getting one. I helped her make bunches. I didn't get one myself until two years before she died. It was a beautiful one that had been cross stitched then quilted. And the second one is a cool thing my daughter gave me several years ago that allows me to put lotion on my own back when no one is around.

14. What is the most important thing about the holidays to you? The quality family time and celebrating the true meaning of Christmas.

15. What is your favorite dessert? Pumpkin Pie.

16. What's your favorite holiday tradition? Going to church on Christmas Eve with the family.

17. What tops your tree? An angel, of course.

18. Which do you prefer, giving or receiving? Giving. Especially to families that really need it. (It's fun to get gifts too).

19. What is your favorite Christmas Song? All of them!

20. Candy canes. Yuck or Yum? Not yuck or yum. I only enjoy maybe on the whole season. But not peppermint. Another flavor.

Busy.....Busy.....Busy

2006-12-10T20:34:00.000-05:00

The only thing I can think of that is better than quality family time is quality friend time. I have had the pleasure of having a nice dose of both this weekend.

I had my annual Holiday Ornament Exchange Party. My daughter and I shared the party, therefore both her friends and my attended. We are so blessed to have so many great group of friends. Twelve out of a possible twenty. I consider that a good number. Even though not all the people knew each other but by the end of the night, everyone was socializing with everyone. I love to see all having a good time. I love games at parties when everyone gets involved and there are no strangers at the party.

My daughter made some awesome snacks straight from her Pampered Chef cookbooks. And I have to say, for someone who doesn't like to cook, she sure did a great job. We had Veggie Pizza, Apple Crisp and the best homemade Cream Puffs you'll ever find. Thanks Babe. I rally appreciate you.

And in the end, anyone who wanted to order something from Pampered Chef for Christmas had a chance to do that too.

Another Busy day.......

Today was equally as busy as yesterday. The church sermon was really interesting and easy to focus on. I really like church at Christmas time. The music, the choir, the decorations, what the season stands for, the kids, but most of all the family time and how close everyone is to you at that time of year.

We had a quick lunch at F&L's. Then it was off to get a few things done before returning to church for a carry-in dinner and the annual Christmas gathering with the families and neighboring churches. We had a great time and some really good eating. And of course, Santa made a visit. I love to watch my grandson and he even got on santa's lap without crying this year and that was cool!

My next door neighbors lost a tree. Or I should say We lost a tree. It was their tree (thank God) but it kinda messed up a big part of the back of my fence. Not a problems for me but their dogs are stuck inside until they get the tree people to finish. And to make the job even bigger, my neighbors decided while the tree people were there, they might as well take the tree out next to the house. It has lost two great limbs in the last 12 months as it still wasn't too stable. My daughter's father-in-law got a win fall. He got some really nice wood for turning in his woodshop. I think that's the only good thing that came out of the whole thing, right here at the holiday season. No that's not true, no one was hurt and that's a blessing.

Blessed beyond measure

2006-12-05T18:13:00.000-05:00

Okay, can you tell I've been busy? With the holidays in full swing, I think lots of us are busier than we would like to be.

Thanksgiving was really great. We have so much to be thankful for. Nice quality time with the family. Everyone contributed to preparing the meal. I like it when it is a combined effort. Everyone in a good mood. Lots of football for the men, crafts with the grandchildren, even counting and rolling money. And with the plan ahead, there was plenty of food for the evening meal. Isn't family time great?!

The family were off to West Virginia to spend some quality time with other family members. I had to work. I did get some holiday shopping done after work. A good time to go. All the early birds were finished finding their bargains but there were still plenty of bargains left to be found.

I even put up the christmas tree. I don't think I have ever put the tree up so early. I always call my daughter to have my granddaughter come help decorate the tree with me. It's nice to see the kids get excited about the decorating. We put christmas music on and in the past, my granddaughter has taken home more ornaments that she puts on my tree. This year I don't think she took home even one. I was almost disappointed. I was surprised, even the young grandchild, who is three, got into the ornaments, (after it they were hanging on the tree) taking notice of a pirate, a lion and a bell. Pretty cool.

The family came over for lunch this past Sunday, (I love it that we take turns with that) and my grandson noticed that there were gifts under the christmas tree. He ask if it were christmas and could he open the gifts. Had I known the explanation were going to be so difficult, I may have put the gifts in the closet until he left.

I love to see the kids at christmas time. If we could all retain the unconditional love, the blind faith that Santa will provide for their every wish, the hope, the joy that seems to get lost somewhere before we become adults, wouldn't this be an unbelievable world.

But instead, we have Iraq and the duty to protect, The crime and the need to lock your door and watch over your children to keep them safe, the financial woes that take some of the joy away, and the reality that we can't have all that we want. We are lucky and blessed to have a warm home, a dependable car, a loving family and friends, and a job to keep us all afloat and well grounded.

I still like the idea of that homemade christmas where little is a lot because you know your family member put a piece of themselves into the gift. Where the gift of time with the family is the best gift of all. I'd give up any gift I'd receive this year for true quality time with the family. My daughter and son-in-law came over the other day and help with a few things I couldn't do myself. Words can't even describe the appreciation I felt for the caring touch they put on the things they knows made life easier for me. Thanks Guys! And spending some one on one time with the little guy was special too.

So when you add it all up, we are all blessed beyond measure, even when there are a few thorns in our lives. God is always with us and watching over us and will never give us more than we can handle.