Devotion worth saving.......

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

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

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?

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

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

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?

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

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.

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?"

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.....

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

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

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

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

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.

We all have much to be thankful for.......

I just spent the most delightful evening with my 80 year old friends Bob and Ann. I was ask to join them to help in a turkey raffle. They provide the tickets. I spent about an hour playing the ticket to try to win turkeys for the Valley Food Pantry. The raffle goes on for two different nights. Proceeds, other than the turkeys got to the Wyoming fire department, which is also a good cause. The first night we were able to win 10 turkeys and 6 more were donated during the raffle. Tonight we were not as lucky. As a mater of fact we played about 150 tickets and didn't win even one. If it had not been for the 7 that were donated by people who were playing or had already won, it would have been a bust for the evening.

I guess the reason for sharing this is to say that even at 80 Ann and Bob are still out there trying to make the world a better place by donating monies (I think the money came for Ann's circle donation) to a raffle to get turkeys for people who may not be able to afford a turkey for thanksgiving. The circle could have bought turkeys, but this way they can donate twice as many and help a good cause too.

I have to say, I love helping out with the raffle and the thought of improving the quality of living for another person but I often need to be invited to know they are going on.

Don't get me wrong, my job is spent working with mentally challenged adults offering some hope in the enhancement of their quality of lives by the contribution made on my part but this is different. This is reaching out into the community. If we could all spent just two hours a week giving back to our community / world, wouldn't this world be a different place. Most of the time we are all so busy and caught up in what is going on around us that we don't often take the time to reach out unless that is the kind of job you do on a daily basis.

On a different note: I spent time with my daughter, granddaughter and grandson today at a near by craft sale. Wow! Lots of stuff to spend your money on.Much of which you don't need. I did come away with some good ideas, which is the reason for going most of the time. I had a really nice time at lunch with "the family". The menu was sparse but adequate. It was a real kid pleaser (hot dogs). It wasn't what I ate, it was soaking in the quality time with the family that I love. My granddaughter came away a bit disappointed that her last purchase was not successful. That's what happens when you don't take enough money with you.

Work continues to provide me with all the thorns I can handle in a week. I continue to tell myself that I am making a difference but even I question that when I come away after my boss has done a number on me. She seems to find great pleasure in belittling me, second guessing everything I do. Even when there is nothing to complain about, she looks for things. After the third attack on Friday I was totally spent but continued to hold my tongue (which in it's self was some great self control on my part). My co-worker turned to me and said, "you need a hug" loud enough for all to hear. I didn't even see it coming. This same co-work turned so everyone could hear and said, I don't know what you all are doing, but I'm not making any decisions, (hence the attacks on me by my boss). My boss basically left the room. I have to say, I was a bit surprised. My co-worker was not very tackful but neither is my boss most of the time. Interesting to see the tables turned for a change. I think my boss doesn't realize how she comes across sometimes but I think if we all could see how we came across to other people, I think we would change our tune and maybe even hold our tongue more often. I say a prayer every night for my boss and for my attitude toward her. Things had improved for a while, but we are who we are. I will continue to pray for peace and for a good attitude and pray for her to find the happiness and contentment she needs so she won't need to attack anyone to feel the control she seems to need.

I wrenched my back the other day and have not been spending very much time working on that cute little christmas sweater for my granddaughter. (I haven't even started my grandson's yet) I called off work on Monday because I was hurting pretty bad. In the back of my mind I had hoped to get some crocheting done on that sweater but that didn't happen. I wasted the morning laying around. Then I had lunch with my daughter. I liked that. I love any time spent with her and the kids, hurting or not.I know her time is so precocious with all that she has on her plate. My daughter is such a lovely person. Thank you God!

My friend Carolyn came over for a while last night. I haven't seen much of her lately. I worry about her sometimes. She has asma really bad and high blood pressure. She doesn't always take her medicine in a timely manner. She is a really sweet and thoughtful person. We've been good friends for about twenty two years. I think everyone deserves at least one friend they can let their hair down with. We have a lot in common. We think alike. We can talk about just about anything but mostly we vent about work. She often has a lot of woes. With this new J-O-B, so do I.

I was invited up to my brother's new apartment the other night for dinner. Yes, he cooked. He likes cooking and is pretty good at it. My sister and brother in law also came. The apartment is really coming together. The company was great. Thanks Bro. I said a prayer for success on that new job you are seeking. It's hard to be patient when you want and need something. It will come.

And in case I don't get back to my blog I would like to close by saying, I hope all have a great and thankful Thanksgiving holiday and don't forget to stop and take a moment to reflect on all that you are thankful for. God has richly blessed us but we often get too caught up in the fast pace of life that we forget to take the time to be thankful.

I am so thankful and so blessed. Thank you God!

Sleeping Beauty and Charlie

Well I brought home my new friend, my brother's cat. "Charlie". Charlie spent the evening in the basement. I wanted to introduce him slowly as I was told he would be very shy and want to hide out for the first day or so. What a nice cat. I brought him upstairs last night when I got home from work. He did really well all evening, sticking very close. Marking his territory. When I went to sleep Charlie was sleeping next to me on the bed. He woke me six times during the night, walking on me and rubbing my face. I finally got up at 5:30 and put him in the basement. I'll try again tonight. I think he was just lonely or missing his poppa. He's such a nice boy.

I had a really busy day at work today, but that's not new. Everyday is busy. What was different was that there were State inspectors - checking the books, Marketing people in taking pictures of the consumers for the December news letter and promotions, several case managers in to visit consumers and a tour for a new interested consumer, all happening within a two hour window. And there is still the one girl on vacation. And this is all while the specialist and techs are trying to run programs for the consumers. If it got any crazier there it would be hard to tell which ones of us are the consumers and which ones were the staff. When the day ends, your brain is so full,it's not hard to leave work, and leave it all there.

I got a call at the end of the day. Can I pick up Sleeping Beauty from knitting club. And if I want I can hang out for a while. You betcha! I won't pass up an opportunity to spend some quality time with the granddaughter. We had dinner at home, she met Charlie,(he was a big hit with her as I knew he would be) and we sat around watching a move (here favorite thing for us to do together) and knitted, (or at least repairing knitting and showing how to add a color). She is getting pretty good at that. I think I was 10 when I learned. We used to knit on pencils because there were not enough needles to go around.

Took her home and visited with my daughter and grandson for a bit. I am so luck to have such a nice family. We talked about that C word again. Lots to do and very little time to get it done. Yea, that C word is Christmas. Wow, it sure is coming on fast this year. Is it because the older we get the faster time passes.

The sweater I am making is coming along well. Not moving as fast as I would like for it to but I couldn't work on it with her here. Other projects are still in the planning stages.

I had a really nice chat with an old SA co-worker buddy. She continues to struggle with the same things we was having trouble with. They continue to tell her that they may still close their center down. They are giving it six months. The staff are showing signs of not caring what happens. Again not unusual. I told her I was surprised she has lasted this long. She is a really good, caring person. I hate to see her go through that stuff. She won't have a problem finding a job if they close.

Charlie is dong well. Nice to have a cat in the house again. Now when I talk to my self I can justify it by talking to the cat. He is a lot of company and yet he goes about his business or lays at my feet.

God Bless and Good Night.

Christmas is coming

Christmas is right around the corner. It seems like we'll be skiing down hill from here. I spent a long time looking for patterns for a homemade Christmas for my family. I couldn't find a sweater pattern. My granddaughter wanted a sweater with a cable stitch down the front. I wanted crochet. All I found was knitting. Any good sites for hand made kids sweaters in crochet?

I found the cutest snowman sweater. We have a thing about snowmen. Not to mention I have been collecting them for about 6 years. The only problem was, the snowman sweater pattern only came in a size 6. She's a 10-12. I played with the pattern for a while and managed to get the proper gage. I am more than half way finished with the front. It looks really good. When I get it finished I will post a pattern and maybe a picture on my blog.

I found a great afghan pattern for my daughter, maybe? I like making things for her because she always appreciated the work that goes into making homemade gifts. She has made a few things herself. I like her hand made cards and her Pampered Chef cooking creations.(And she says she can't cook).

I'm still on the lookout for a really neat boys sweater pattern, toddler size 4. I found a couple but they seem kinda girly and I don't thing his dad would appreciate that, let alone let him wear it. Anyone out there with any ideas, I'm open for suggestions, as time is closing in.

Can you believe it? In less than a month we will be decorating for the holidays. Oh my goodness! Makes me tired just thinking about it.

For the pass several years I have been having an ornament exchange party. This year will be no different. And even though money is tight, I still think it will be lots of fun. I love getting together during the holidays. Especially with family and friends.

The hardest thing about Christmas is my best friend died right before Christmas last year. It's hard to believe on December ninth she will be gone a whole year. She was quite a lady. I liked her spunk. She's probably up there giving God direction on how to do it now. May she rest in peace.

Got a call from my nephew this evening. He is in the Marines. He sounded so sad tonight. He said he would almost rather be just about anywhere than where he was. He's in a dessert in California, training to go over seas in January or February. His girlfriend will have their child while he is away and I think it is all hitting him. Guess he has a lot of time to think about things. Glad he took the time to call his Aunt Dee.

I would love to sit her and blog all night but it's late and morning comes too soon. Being short at work all week, I will need all the energy I can muster.

Good Bless and Good Night.

Moving day for the brother / uncle

It's been a while since I have bolgged. Life has been really busy. I spent some good quality time with the grands this weekend. I just love it when they come over. That little dragon is a real cutie. Sleeping beauty is cute too, just different. And quite the little helper.

The grands and I spent times making crafts together. A new activity for the little guy. We made bead fire trucks and trackers. I was surprise that Sleeping beauty enjoyed making trucks.

Today was a long day. At work one of the girls is on a well deserved vacation. Boy she was missed. The others came together to pitch in but she was still missed. My boss is no help at all. She will walk right by something that needs done and come get you to go back and do it. She isn't a very good boss. She is a little full of herself.

I went from there to get my new friend, (my brother's cat who will now be my cat). My brother got a new apartment and the landlord says, "no cats". He's a cute little guy. I call him Charlie but my brother called him Chairman Mah (I think that's the way he spells it). He is a orange and white tabby. I was told he would want to hide and take several days to warm up. I was happy that that didn't happen. Charlie warmed up right away. Rubbing against my leg. No purring yet but that will come. He's so cute.

Well I think it is official. My brother now has his own apartment. Congratulations Bro! I tried to help him as much as I could. Moving is a lot of work and a pain in the back! I recruited my brother-in-law and daughter to help with some of the heavy stuff. Even sleeping beauty pitched in to help. I think he has everything in, now for the organizing. Yuck! I like things neat and in their places, I just hate finding new places for things. I left him with a promise I would come again next weekend to assist in the organizing. Hopefully he will have things in place by then.

Happy Halloween

Been a long day but a good one. Went to a workshop instead of work. A lot of the people were dressed in costume. The motivational speaker was really good. He had compassion and strength in his message to the crowd. Something you don't find very often at a workshop.

The family were invited over to watch the grands in their costumes. Sleeping Beauty and the little green dragon were great. The little dragon was content in following sleeping beauty where ever she went but wasn't so interested in the candy, which was more than okay with my daughter. Sleeping Beauty went to trick or treat with some friends while the little dragon entertained the rest of the family in the driveway around the firepit. Nice evening. Very nice!

I've been getting some really neat emails from my friends. I got some great pictures of our city skyline. This would make nice clip art in any presentation or just for fun. I have enclosed the link if anyone would like to take a look. Click on the picture to enlarge it.
http://urbanohio.com/CinnSkyline.htm.

Still thinking about christmas gifts. Having a problem finding the right pattern for the sweater I want to make for my granddaughter. She wants a cable sweater. Most of what I have found are knitting. I want crochet. If anyone has a nice pattern for one I would be interested in seeing it.

Helped my brother move the other day. Poor Guy has a bad cold and isn't feeling well. He found a cute little apartment. It's small but just the right size for him. He is excited about the two decks. With winter coming it may be a while before he can enjoy them. He still has a lot to do but it is coming right along. I promised more help but he wants to let his cold run it's course and then get serious. I can't say I blame him.

The river is really up and hasn't yet created. If I lived on the east side of town, down by the river I think I would worry myself to death. My sister;s business is on a barge and it rises as the river does but the ramp continues to grow. As the river rises they put extentions onto the existing ramps. The parking lots and part of the hill is now under water. No one seems too worried about it. I haven't been down there since sunday but my brother says it continues to rise.

My sister has been out of town for the last five days. I can't wait to see her face when she sees how high the river is. She has a long history down by the river so she may just take it in stride.

Looking forward to a nice visit with a dear old friend this weekend. She lives in Minnesota and is visiting her daughter in Kentucky. She is elderly and has some health issues and traveling is hard on her. She is a real dear soul. We've been friends for 35 years. Hard to believe that much time has gone by. She has a really sweet daughter. When we first met, she didn't care much for me. I think we have all grown to care a lot about each other.

Friends are great. Friends are the only gift you can give yourself. And most often you get out of the friendship what you put into it. Even miles can't separate the really good friendships. Sometimes it even makes the heart grow founder.

Sometimes I wish it were that easy with family but we all have our own lives and agenda and often move in separate directions. I am blessed with a beautiful daughter, a wonderful son-in-law and two extra special grandchildren. I had a good time with everyone this evening.

I had more roses that thorns today.