Merry Christmas - do you have the right gift?

Getting down to the wire and before we know it (if the world doesn't end tomorrow, of course), Christmas will be here.  Celebrating the most important event ever...the coming of our Messiah, Jesus Christ.  I know you've heard of Him.  Perhaps many of you have gotten past "hearing about Him" to knowing Him as your Lord and Savior, your King, your Provider, your reason for living.  You know He's the right Gift.

Anyone who has lost hope, lost love, lost stability, lost family and finds Jesus knows why we celebrate Him, at Christmas time and everyday of our lives.  He has never left us.  He has never failed us.  He is faithful even when we are not.

Do you know Him?  Is He Lord of your life?  Are your burdens at His feet and you are at peace?  That's what He wants.  Us to have His peace because He can fix what's broken, including your heart.  He stores our tears in a bottle.

This Christmas, why not focus on Him.  Not Santa Claus, gift exchanges and family gatherings.  Not parties, baking cookies and egg nog.  But, just Jesus.  No fancy wrapping came with Him as our gift from God, only a ragged blanket.  A manger used for feeding animals was His bed.  He cried and was helpless at birth, no fancy crown on His head.  But, He is Worthy of our Praise, our Honor, and our Love.  He is our King.

 My prayer is if once the packages under your tree are opened you still feel empty, you'll seek the gift of Jesus and be filled with every good thing...love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, gentleness, faithfulness and self-control.  This gift is free! Just ask God for it.  Nothing to do first, if any changes are needed, believe me, He will bring them about if you sincerely turn yourself over to Him.

Have a very Merry Christmas

medical tests - don't read if squeamish

Oh boy.  Yesterday was my Cystodefecography.  Yeah, try pronouncing it.  In a nutshell think, embarressing, pinching pain, quiet anger, humor and relief when over.  First, no food after midnight (oh, I forgot STARVATION) on my list.  I slirpped on some nasty jello off the K-mart shelf.  Can of chicken broth and coffee. Yum!  The morning of the test the navy arrived and it was war on a bath towel when the "Fleet" came marching in two by two.  Yeah, those guys!

The drive to Portland, thank you hubby.  The Providence Professional Plaza, how could anything hurt in THIS beautiful building.  Of course we passed the cafeteria to get to Suite 117.  Rub it in.

The procedure itself began with drinking two containers of watered down chalk with a hint of raspberry.  Pride when the lady said, "I think you drank this faster than any other patient"..well, they did say not to sip it.
Instructions..DO NOT POOP!  Why not say do not BREATHE!  However, prayer is a powerful thing!!
Paperwork is a good distraction, also.  40 minutes later the pretty blond comes and gets me.

Then the new wardrobe..two gowns..first opens in back..2nd opens in front..I like that. Walk to first X-ray of innards.  Now, walk to what looks like an operating room and get on table..warm blanket.  "Sorry, picture didn't turn out"..back to cold X-ray table, bye bye warm blanket. Return to 'operating room'.  All this walking and I'm NOT to let anything out!!!  In a few minutes, a smiling chipper unsub from Criminal Minds comes in to torture me with a catheter insertion..MOMMY!!  Tapes tube to my leg with a pair of sissors dangling..ok now that's just wrong!!!  Then just to complete the agony (ok so maybe NOT agony in the true sense of the word, but to me yes!) they fill my bladder...wait it's suppose to go out not in.  Oh this is definately NOT fun.  Smiley leaves to get to her next victim.  Pretty blond girl leaves me alone as she goes to get the doctor.  I begin to sing praise and christmas songs to keep my mind off the pain..

Next the Dr arrives with two giant cylinders of goop..yeah..guess where they decide to store that..and yes they do use what resembles a calking gun come to think of it.  Now, without losing any of goop, they say "walk" over here.  DEAD GIRL WALKING came to mind as I slowly made my way across the room to some steps..up up up...now sit.  Before I know it and in spite of great discomfort they give me an amusement ride..my seat aka potty chair, is airborn.  Wheeeee!  NOT!!  Then the fun begins..Do this, squeeze that, hold that, cough, push...am I having a baby or what?  All to the eager eyes of the doctor and his girl Friday.   After they put me thru the paces, I have questions...so they begin to show me the images which are at my elbow...the girl says "look away..those aren't images of you yet"..oh yeah Hippa.  I'm so gonna tell everybody about blurry fuzzy pictures of strangers'  movements.  It was interesting as I watched mine, it was  like a video of cloud formations..see this is where you coughed, this is where you relaxed.  Hey..cool.  How do I know this is really me?  Faith man, just pure faith.

It's finally over and I'm left with the girl Friday to unhook all the tubing etc..it's no skin off her nose that I hurt like crazy and wanna scream..but I smile, I joke, and when she's done I go into my private dressing room and it's over.

I go back to where my dear husband has waited over an hour and where do I head?  Cafeteria of course.  There are things I wanna do to be more comfortable but I am a lady so I don't.  About an hour and a half later, the sharp pain from the catheter is gone. Thank you Advil.

Next we go visit our friend at OHSU who is really really sick and suddenly I am very thankful that my "agony" ended for the day, while our friend has been in hospital over 3 months and it ain't over yet for him.  Even if I have surgery, I won't suffer as much as this young man.  I am ashamed of how I whined on the way to see him.  But, there are more tests, no doubt more whining and if I do have surgery, I will be a coward.  But as long as I remember to praise God and sing He will see me through it all.

Mall shooting

http://news.search.yahoo.com/search?p=Oregon+mall+shooting

Our world is sick.  Come quickly Lord Jesus.  Meanwhile, tell others about His love and forgiveness.  His healing power for mind and body.  A world "doin their own thing" just doesn't work!  Bring God back to our schools, government and families!!

Hope you all have a great and safe Wednesday.  I'm heading to Portland for a medical test that probably will only hurt my pride.  Life in the fast lane of the elderly..  I may look ok and act youthful, but inside my body,  gravity is having it's way.  My sense of humor will prevail!!!!  It's brought me through worse places in my 70 years.  Laughter doeth like good medicine as the Bible says!!

Lord of all

If Jesus isn't Lord of all in my life, He's not Lord at all in my life.  I'm either all in..or it's not a relationship.
He didn't die for religion, He died for a personal relationship with me and you if you accept Him.  Total surrender.  I am on a journey.  It's a wonderful journey, too.  His faithfulness surpasses anyone else's.  He won't let me down, ever!!  I love Him!!!

buckies and retirement

Good morning!  Ah yes, I just finished one of my challenges for the day...wrapping a riding toy that has all that open space.  Ok it's not pretty!!  Ok the taped side is up. What's a person to do huh?

My 2nd challenge today will be getting my "buckies" cleaned.  It's my last appt with my dentist while insured.
With hubby retiring at end of December, so is my dental insurance.  Our medical goes thru January then we are medicare and supplemental insured.  What? Oh the fact I may require surgery very soon?  Yeah..that's a challenge that goes beyond today.  We'll just have to see.  I have 3 tests coming up to determine my fate. Just like my wrapping..they ain't pretty!!!

We will see a financial planner this afternoon also.  So you can see this is a productive busy day.  Bob retiring sure created a lot to do, but it's worth it to have some time together.  Will my life change?  oh yeah.  He'll put me on a dress code prolly (getting dressed before noon), I'll be on the clock with my computer use, too, I betcha.  Oh and there's that "I like to stay busy" mentality which I do not own.  Will he expect me to participate in that??

But, for now..he will work as a temp thru March, so I've got some time to wean out of my laziness, my wardrobe of pj's and tee shirt, and get off my twinkie addiction.

Have a great day!!!

Thanksgiving 2012

Hello gobblers!!

Hmmm my nostrils are flaring from the smells in this kitchen.  Day began with McDonald breakfast sandwiches and coffee.  Then the clock watching because I made some of the food the night before.  Then I made a fruit salad.  Then I wrestled big bird into submission..gads they're gross when not cooked.  All that hanging flabby stuff..yeah reminds me of me in a swimsuit.

I don't stuff my bird so he's in the roaster nekkid and hollow.  I never graduated past the typical Thanksgiving feast of turkey, fruit salad, mashed potatoes and gravy, mashed yams with brown sugar, green bean cassrole and pumpkin pie..oh and stove top stuffing.  Nothing gourmet' goin on here, but it's all good.

We thought we'd be alone this year, but Bob's daughter and hubby and sweet little baby Lincoln are coming. Now it feels more family like...altho Bob and I weren't wallowing in self pity and I personally had planned to stay in jammies all day.  Thank you Candice and Roger for making me get dressed, put on some makeup, etc.

We'll sit around the table around 2pm..it's 12:30 and my thighs are beginning to quiver.  Haha..saw something funny on Facebook.."Happy Thanksgiving!  Don't forget to set your scales back about 10 lbs tonight!!!! haha.

Have a blessed day y'all.  God has given us many blessings.  We should acknowledge them all year, but at least Thanksgiving is the time to voice them for sure!!!!

I'm 70 now!!!! Surprise Party's rock!!

 Stepdaughter, hubby Roger and Lincoln

 Grandson, Brad, me and daughter, Hollee

 My oldest daughter, granddaughter, and two great grandkids!!

 My friend for over 20 years, Victoria!!!

 We had 16 at Red Robin..it was grand!!!  Gifts, Laughter, fellowship so sweet!!

 Daughter makes Jewelry..gave me two pr earrings and necklace awww...by her own hands.

 Scarf..ok I really do know the right way to wear one, so there!!!

Us girls!! 3 generations!! 
So, my birthday is actually today, Monday.  Who celebrates on a Monday???  Bob arranged for some friends and family to meet at Red Robin and it was a blast!!!  I suspected something was afoot, but just seeing different ones arrive was lovely.  In all the beauty and fun you can't help but miss the part of the family that has chosen the path of rejection.  Mad.  Robbing us and them by not participating.  Around the holidays it's especially hard or at parties like this.  But, you know what?  We get to choose to let it ruin our good time or just give it a quick thought, feel sad momentarily, and go on thanking God for who DID arrived, and What fun you had, right?  That's what I did and this is one of my favorite birthdays of all.  Ok..maybe I'm not so fond of the number..70..70 rings around my trunk if I were a tree I'd be proud right?  Ut oh I said "right?" twice..there goes the Pulitzer prize for writing...Dang!!!  But, anyway happy birthday to meeeee...it's all about me right?   Oh NO..I did it again...haha.   Ok bye.

Where are you?

It's that time of year when Tom and his buddies start panicking.  They know that party they're invited to is NOT a birthday party, but no, indeed, it is a farewell party as Thanksgiving approaches.  Hiding is one option Tom, but eventually that human will find you. It's gone on for centuries..I'm sure turkey's history books mention this annual event.  For we humans it is one of our favorite times of the year.  Dangling legs under a dining room table, apron clad women mashing potatoes, slicing and dicing vegetables, and of course, stuffing your relatives.  Cremation follows.  (Unless you're a good cook)  We like to sit around the table smelling the smells, sharing things we are thankful for.

Sometimes families have to adjust to divorce, death and anger making this joyous occasion stressful.  But it doesn't have to be.  We can choose to look at the good in our lives and families and thank God for each and every thing that has been a blessing from Him.  "Every good and perfect gift comes from above" says the Bible.

So, when you find Tom, and make all that food, remember it all comes from our Heavenly Father's hands.

Happy Thanksgiving to you all!!!

Unforgiveness

Such wasted time when unforgiveness rules
Withholding your love seems so very cruel.

No discussion, or understanding just pulling away
Vowing to hate for the rest of your days.

Yes, things were said, things that hurt each one
 but, destroying relationships just to say you won?

Families are precious and time is so short
Bitterness should be the last resort.

Pride is reigning supreme in you two
Please let's ask..what would Jesus do?

Do you really want the devil to win?
Unforgiveness and pride, both are sin.

Make up make up, I'm begging you
In my eyes and God's eyes, it's the right thing to do.

Thanksgiving and Christmas, holidays filled with love
Ask help in forgiving from our Father above
 

Another 4 years

Another 4 years of Obama.  I won't pretend I'm not very disappointed in the outcome of the election.  I see trouble for our country.  Not change.  However, I also see the mighty hand of God protecting His own children,  So, I'm trusting Him.  I know some are ecstatic about another 4 years with Obama and they have their reasons.

I wanted to see less abortions..that won't happen.  I do not approve of gay marriage.  I do not approve of illegal aliens being allowed to stay without going through the line of other folks waiting to go through proper channels to become citizens. Obama Care scares me as a Senior.  I've read things that make me think Obama is not an ally to Israel, God's chosen people.  I just think of Sodom and Gomorrah and how God destroyed that place because it had become so godless and America is becoming just as evil.

But, it is what it is.  I'll be cryin for the next 4 years probably should the Lord tarry. 

New prez

yikes..I'm so excited..tomorrow..not only a new president, but my new Keurig coffee maker will arrive.  I may need to take a valium to calm down.  Hope you all voted!!!  If you didn't stop whining when Romney wins...wink.  Oh I do hope so.  But, God's in charge and whatever or whoever matters not, His will be done!!  Fasten your seatbelts for one of the most important elections I ever remember and I'm OLD!!!!

the "freight train of aging"

November. 19 more days.  Unbelievable. Trying to embrace it.  Will I wake up that morning and gravity will have doubled its activity?  I'll be up, but nothing else will be?  Traumatic anticipation, with one silver lining in this cloud.  I'm that much closer to my real home.  What is happening in 19 days you may ask.  Well, I'll tell ya..just a minute have to find my teeth.  Wonder why I threw my wig clear over there..did I have a tantrum last night?  What birthday?  Oh yeah, I was about to tell you, I'm turning 70 on November 19th.  Oh sure sure, I know how important November 6th is...but this is my life we're talking about.  I want to turn 70 knowing Romney is our new President..that's all I ask..well, except for something..anything purchased from Chicos!!!  Have a great day..remember to VOTE!!!!

falling out

to have a falling out with family is bad enough...but right before the holidays..thanksgiving..christmas..that's a bummer with a capitol B.  We need to pray for each other!!

Melt Down

Wow..been a long time since I've had a total meltdown.  Throwing stuff, shrieking, crying, etc.  I'm having 8 people for dinner Saturday night so I'm cleaning house like crazy.  I'm in pain with arthritic fingers as I do it.  Then along came the ants.  Quietly, quickly, with that innocent look on their tiny faces as they sent me into a tirade.  A word to the wise..when in a melt down...do not..I repeat...do not call 411 information.  I wanted to ask Round Table Pizza a question.  No phone number in the phone book, didn't occur to look on internet til after my call to information.   City and State?  Keizer, Oregon.  "Keezer, Or-RE-gone?  yes..Round Table Pizza...she just could NOT get Round Table Pizza..so I began yelling it...finally I began again saying Restaurant when she asked and then in a dialect that totally escapes me proceeded to rattle off names of restaurants in Keezer, Or-RE-gone.    Now, in addition to ants I have to buy a new cell phone..haha...j/k.  I'm over it now..sorta. 

Just as I thought

Well..saw the dr today..referral just as I thought.  Up in Portland 45 plus miles away just as I thought.  Which means if surgery, NO visitors except my faithful husband..just as I thought. but..if it helps..be worth it right?  Right..just as I thought.  Hope you all are having a great day!!  Good..just as I thought! 

My grandbaby Briley is coming today..cartwheel..we'll have fun..We always do..just as I thought.   Ok bye now.

100 year celebration and great reunion

Last Sunday I went to the 100 year celebration of Salem First Church of the Nazarene in Salem, Oregon.  My first pastor was there.  H. B. London.  This was back in the 70s and because of him I'm alive.  Not necessarily the part he played in my salvation..which was huge.  But, because of his prayer one Friday afternoon that God would remove my smoking habit from me.  I was already experiencing shortness of breath at age 32.  At my current age of almost 70, I'd be dead.
 
He baptized me, he performed my marriage ceremony, dedicated my kids, came to hospital for each surgery and/or birth of my kids.  He was involved in his people big time!!!

Over the years, I divorced and left the church to my ex husband.  But, it will always be my church home. Coming back for this celebration proved that to me as I saw so many dear dear friends from over the years. I attended Salem First Naz for 24 years.  Wonderful years.

Here's a few pics of the celebration. First picture..spotted HB and ran to give him a bear hug!!

This next picture posing together.

This is Bev..HB's wife.  She played the piano and was a faithful servant. Classy lady who forgot to age when I saw her at the celebration..but I don't hate her for that.


This is Sue, HB's secretary for 40 years. When he left Salem Naz to go pastor a church in Pasadena she went with him, then when he went to be on staff at Focus on the Family in Colorado Springs, Colo. she went with him there.  Dedicated employee!!! We are Facebook friends, too, so I can keep in touch!!  Now that HB is retired she stayed in Colorado while HB moved to Palm Desert, CA.

Now the Nazarene church as a wonderful brand new pastor with a big heart.  God is so faithful.  Everybody is well and still involved in ministry.  The only problem now is this:  How in the world did my blog suddenly go into underlined and blue ink????  I've highlited and clicked on both color and underline above to no avail.  So..goin now.. tah tah.

In the mirror

Had a great time with myself in the bathroom.  Taking pictures in the mirror.  Tryin to smile and eventually laughing really hard..talked to Jesus about it and He was laughing, too I think.  He wants us to enjoy life right?  Anyway here's the final product for today's session..I've never used a flash til now... so it has added some more "air brushing..hahaha"  I'm a crazy dame that's for sure, but you know what?  I like me.  God loves me.  That's all that matters right?

An afternoon at EZ Orchards

Good morning, good morning!!  Grey skies frowning at me now..nothing but grey skies do I see..la la.  It's ok tho, right?  God is still good.

Had a day recently at a local produce/play/park with a couple of grandkids, Mia and Briley with their mom, Hollee.  Here's a few pictures of our fun time!!!

We had fun even if Briley didn't..haha

Ok..I know it's NOT high, but I AM nearing 70..

We went inside the produce store after playing and now we're eating blueberries from mommy's cart..I think Briley wasn't too keen on sharing her berries.  It was a cheap time but we really did have fun!!  The main thing is build memories with your grandkids and bond with your adult children and try not to get too worn out...wheeee!!

Doesn't this look yummy

I discovered this awesome salad..it's made with spring mix greens, peaches and strawberries with a good quality poppyseed dressing.  Peaches have been in season here..I wouldn't use canned.

How is your weekend going?  Bob is painting a truck and it's been a nightmare project cuz he is in over his head...not sure the grief is worth the savings of having hired it done.

We went to Oktoberfest last night.  Fun time just walking around eating eating eating.  I had a CarbFest.  Started out with french fries with cheese and chives.  Then potato pancakes with sour cream and applesauce.  Rounded the evening out with apple fritters.  Yeah..bad huh!!!  Sure was yummy tho.  Saw a purse I wanted but the big bopper didn't pick up my hints so I let it goooooo. 

Hello grey

Hello grey day.  Nice to have you back, actually.  I don't do heat well, so love it when it cools down, but isn't pouring or blowing.  I know some dread it cuz they have to stop working on their tans.  I miss those days of wearing a two piece bathing suit, laying on my patio lathered up in baby oil with a breezebox fan in the doorway keeping me cool while I sauteed in the sun.  But, now I wish I hadn't.  It does wrinkle you, ladies.  Not to mention a higher risk of skin cancer as it's accumulative.  But, I looked pretty hot back then I must say.

Monday.  I do love Mondays.  I haven't figured out why.  I know I have to get dressed eventually as Monday is grocery shop day..and you know how I love food!!!  worth clamping on the old vice grip aka bra.  Maybe some makeup in case I run into an old flame in the produce section...haha.

I'm happy today.  Called Keurig Coffee company and they're sending me a new free replacement part..cartwheel!!  It was an easy call except for that part about hearing every word she said and making her repeat herself.  She was very gracious..wonder what country she was from.  Wink.

My School Prayer

Dear Heavenly Father,

Today is the first day of school for many. Lord first I ask you to bind satan from putting evil thoughts into the kids' minds to take out their frustrations by bullying other kids.  I know there are unhappy homes represented in all the schools and that kids see violence on TV, in their homes, video games they are numb to its consequences and want others to suffer.  I ask for protection of their minds and actions.
The innocent ones who are frightened of school..please put your hand of love and grace on them.  Ease their fears, comfort them and let them know You have their back.  If they know You as their Savior, remind them to pray when something isn't going well.
I lift all the teachers up to you and ask in Jesus Name that they use your wisdom in all they say and do.  Let their influence be good.  I ask you to help the kids be obedient and cooperative so the teacher's job is easier.  They may not allow prayer in school, Lord, but the godly kids have great power to be You in the classrooms, in the halls, in the lunch room and on the playground.  Protect our children I pray.  Thank you and praise you Jesus, amen.

Out of Control

Last night at the baseball game a guy in the row in front of us was going to get some food.  He decided to climb over the back of his seat and not disturb those in his row.  He lost his balance and with his left hand grabbed his girlfriend's neck from behind to steady himself.  Only he was really off kelter, so took a minute or more to get balanced, meanwhile jerking her neck around through her blond hair.  Our whole row was laughing at this scene.  Finally, he got squared away and let go of her neck.  Everybody in our row then stopped laughing and Bob turned to the guy next to him and resumed their conversation.  BUT, I was not finished laughing.  I kept picturing that poor girl being jerked around by this guy trying to exit his seat.  I realized..hey, I'm  like laughing by myself here.   I went to the bathroom and giggled some more in there.  Thought I had it under control, but when I saw that girl's head again I started laughing.  Out of control.  When you're my age, being seen laughing by yourself is not cool.  It sure was funny.

State Fair

We went to the State Fair yesterday.  The budget had been cut so it just seemed smaller.  We started with art cuz usually that's the last stop and my desire to see art is non existent.  Well, I saw nothing that made me go "wow..hey Bob, look at this".  Bob was busy looking for nude photography...he pouted for an hour when none showed up.  (just kidding.there wasn't any anyway).

Got hungry.  Oh no healthy choices for this duo.  We aimed high..er I mean low...16 inch corn dogs..yeah...that thing that stretches across your plate, gouging eyes as you pass folks by looking for a place to sit in covered area.  We further assaulted our stomachs with a brick of curly fries.  Dessert:  milk shakes.

We watched some entertainment..a group of gymnists piling up chairs to stand on their hands on..tumbling..contortionists and last , but not least I THOUGHT they asked ANYONE who wanted to come up and dance with them...several kids rushed forward and I was one of them.  I handed Bob my cell which meant "hey get my picture up here dancing with this group"..but he just sat there.  So, my secret is safe...cuz in retrospect, the fact I was the ONLY adult up there makes me think the guy invited all the KIDS up.  Being a nearly 70 yr old slightly chunky woman doesn't work well with jungle dancing I've discovered so not having a picture to remember it by is a good thing.

We didn't want to ride rides.  So we wandered through what must be the most boring section of the Fair..sleeping chickens.  One fat pig (450 lbs) and her piglets then some sleeping cows and sheep.  You can see I was never a 4-H member.

All in all, the fun was being with my husband, us both in a good mood and getting tired at the same time.  We bought our Queen size set of sheets and staggered to the car on stiff legs and sore backs.

garage sales

Your junk is my junk.  Walked down the block to check the garage sales.  Junk junk oh wait..those are cute.  $2.50 for a nice pair of shoes..yeah..oh and these are cute, too..another 2.50.  5.00 bucks for 2 pair of shoes...not bad.  I raced back to my house to get cash..he has to have cash..thanks NEIGHBOR!! Anyway I get them home and the left one kills my foot..but he took it back..thanks for sincere Neighbor!

One time I went to my daughter's garage sale..saw the Christmas gift I'd given her.  Still in the box unused.  I said nothing and didn't buy it..

Some people get in their cars and make a day of it at nearly 4.00 a gallon for gas.  They go to sales listed in the paper.  This is serious junk shopping!!!  I should look for a car seat for my grandbaby who I'll be babysitting soon..I bet they're out there!!!

senior moment

Ok..that's just wrong!!! .. me pulling computer mouse out of cell phone pocket in purse.  It's gonna be a wild ride, this aging thing!  For now, maybe I'll just blame it on stress.  Yeah, that works.  What stress you may ask since..number one I'm retired.  number two there's no rush to be somewhere.  number three I live a peaceful life..except there is that pesky worrying about your kids thing..yeah that.  That could do it.

Today is grocery shopping day.  I've got to make sure I'm dressed.  Wearing make-up in case I run into some X or something.  Take Valium so when I read prices I don't freak out.  Yeah..I'm ready!!!

Have a great day to all the seniors tryin to make a call on their computer mouse or box of Altoids!!! haha

Adoption not Abortion

Adoption..not abortion.  If you are in a position of being single, inconvenient time for a baby either don't have sex (best option since that's wrong) or use reliable birth control.  If you do get pregnant there are so many couples wanting children but can't that would love to adopt your baby.  Don't kill it.  You never get over it!!
You will be advised by abortion clinics and liberalists that it's not a baby but a "fetus" or "tissue", but doggone it, it's a child in there who deserves a chance.  It's not their fault you were doing something for fun and it produced what God intended it to produce..a child.  He gave us this gift to procreate and happened to make it enjoyable at the same time..don't misuse it..make it common..part of a 3rd date or something.  It's designed for married couples to do to populate the earth..  Ok...I've said my piece.

I love AC

I love air conditioning!  I stepped outside to water some plants..ugh..back inside was Heaven!!  I thought about the drought in our country and how hot that must feel.  I need to count my blessings I take for granted..running water, living where it rains, a husband who loves me, a nice little house in the burbs..something I wanted all my life and finally at age 57 got one.  I'm 69 now with 70 staring me in the face.  I'm asking God for more years to enjoy His blessings to me.  Hope you're having a great day.  Since retiring, Mondays are my favorite days..weird huh?

good morning

well you worker bees..it's finally here..Friday!! woo hoo.  I hope you have a great day and weekend!

Hubby is painting his pickup..so far he has a big gouge in his forhead and a small lump on other side from mallet hammer fallin on him.  These "do it yourselfers" live on the edge don't they!  But, over the years a ton of money has been saved.  I'm just thrilled he FINISHES his projects before beginning new ones!!! 

guilt

I'm at the computer (obviously) and hubby just mowed across the window outside..I'm making potato salad, the house is clean..but the guilt still remains.  It would only be complete if I was inside at the computer with a half gallon of ice cream in my lap with a serving spoon right?  Outside..that's his turf.  It's not my fault he had to sand a pickup to paint it..I'd just get rid of it as is..haha.  I'm mean I know, but I'm cute.  HAHAHA

I can hear!

Day one with new hearing aids...I love them.  I can hear the guy behind me at the ball game munching popcorn.  And the woman in next section telling her husband "that's your 3rd hotdog, fatty".  I heard a helicopter and thought it was landing, but in reality it was in Newburg.  Haha...Seriously, I think they're great.  Just have to remember they're in my ears before scratching..

Today will be day two...let the games begin!!

Stop Smoking!

Visited my cousin who is sick and in assisted living. (In the blue shirt)  They are possibly going to remove her legs from Diabetis circulatory problems. she's done drugs, and smoked. She's had a stroke or two..yet she continues to smoke!!  Here's the deal..she is one month younger than I..I turn 70 in November and she turns 70 in December. This is what smoking does!!!  But, for the grace of God go I.  I became a Christian in 1975 and quit smoking.  Thank you Jesus!!!  None of us know what the future holds health wise, but please please if you smoke...stop!!!!

cousins - August 2, 2012

Yesterday two cousins came by and we went to lunch.  Then we went to another cousin's house.  Then we drove up to Portland to yet another cousin's house.  Today, I'm going to another city to visit another cousin who is ill.  I've got cousins runnin out my ears by golly!!!

While in Portland we needed to eat dinner somewhere.  Haha..the one cousin who lives there said, "let's eat at the Fred Meyer Deli.  What?  So, we did.  They were doing construction..felt like a worker on break with all the dust and noise..the silver lining?  We didn't have to tip.  We visited the Hardware store and Dollar Tree.  It was a whirlwind visit.  But, the main thing is this...we were together for the first time in many years. It was as if no time had passed except our physical ailments list was much longer!

Tomorrow I head south to spend a few days with the cousin who missed out on the Deli Dinner.  She doesn't know I'm coming.  I may have to wear a name tag cuz I look different and she isn't as "with it" as when last we were together.  Fortunately her sister who CAN hear and see will be there to interpret for us.  I get my new hearing aids next week so there will be repeatin goin on.

I won't have internet so no posts for a few days.  Awww..dry your eyes..haha.

Tuesday July 31..time is flyin

Mercy. July is over already.  At this rate I'll be 70 sooner than I'm ready for it.  November is a freight train heading my way with that number on it.  Jesus, I hope you are fine tuning the place you have prepared for me..heh.  I'd like 10 to 15 more years if you tarry in Your return ok?

I will be cuddling Briley today..hope her mommy washes her face..Briley found mommy's chocolate stash! Good thing she's not a dog huh?

good Monday morning July 30

Ok I've had my coffee..where's that chef with my breakfast??  Swine maid still hasn't made my bed either.  I think I'll have to do it myself.

It Monday, the sun ain't shinin..but I'm alive and I think I heard the devil muttering "oh no..she's up" when my feet hit the floor.

Buyin groceries is my first errand..found a recipe for a summery salad..yeah about a 100 ingredients, but it had a picture of it with recipe so I fell in love.

You all have a good day, you poor working stiffs!!!  Ok, that was mean.  Sorry. (no she's not..she's bragging cuz she is retired.)

Sunday July 29, 2012

Good Sunday morning!! Hope you have plans to be in church today. We have another ballgame tonight..late afternoon actually.  Food is cheap tonight...1.00 buys a small soda and either hamburger or hot dog. Oink!! Just for Seniors tho..if you're young forget it baby..you pay more.

I love this dress I'm wearing if only it had longer sleeves..my wing span is not a pretty picture I can tell you!!

Have a great day!!

Saturday July 28, 2012 Olympics

And so I missed the opening ceremony of Olympics..too bad cuz the rest of it is pretty much boring to me..basketball, soccer, cycling..love the swimming, diving..let's see what else?  Anyway, you'd know I'm not into sports except baseball if you saw me

Eatin a balogna sandwich on wheat..wishing it was on white bread..yeah..take me back to my strawberry picking days..warm mayo on warm white bread with warm balogna, warm coke and chips w/cookies..remember those days?  We let it all sit on the bus we caught at 5am til lunchtime. Those were the days. Ate more than I picked..haha.

Friday, July 27, 2012

Good morning..wait..it's already afternoon..so Good Afternoon!!  It's Friday all you worker bees!!  I bet there's some fun plans afoot.  We're having a long time friend over for pizza and videos.  I just learned Olympics opening ceremonies are tonight..guess we'll miss that.  It's an easy fun day so far..no stress of cleaning nook and cranny as my friend doesn't judge!!  She will see our new kitchen for first time so that'll take her attention off the floor right?  I can hope.  Ok bye.

Thursday July 26, 2012

Yoo Hoo!  Beautiful day!  I will be going to the Audiologist today.  Check out the old ears.  If you suddenly are hearing better than usual..maybe you found my hearing loss?  I've got hearing aids from a few years ago. I hate em, frankly.  It picks up the wrong sounds.  Like one time I put my hand into my garbage disposal cuz the water had been so loud that when I got the sequence wrong and turned off the water first I couldn't hear the quiet hum of the disposal.  A lemon rind started the noise..but by the time I was "in there" to get it out it had been chewed up.  Fortunately, it's a very small opening and my fingers were bunched up as I went thru the hole and the blades missed me..That bolt in the middle did a bad twist on my fingers so I got out of there.  Well you can imagine my shock when I looked at my hand and it was in pain but no cuts...the shock of knowing where it had been was pretty huge.  I call it a senior moment which could have resulted in a new nick name of stumpy fingers or something.  Thank you Lord!!!  But, all this to say..I'm getting my hearing tested.  Have a great day!!

Wednesday July 25, 2012

Hump day.  Middle of the work week.  I love today because it's my granddaughter's birthday.  She's 30.  Yes, 30.  Now is some serious aging when your grandchild turns 30!!  I remember the shock and dismay when my daughter turned 40..and now granddaughter is only 10 yrs away from 40.  I hope I live long enough to celebrate with her!!!  God has blessed me with a wonderful family.  Age, smage.  It doesn't matter really.  Just enjoy life moment by moment, love Jesus, and everything's gonna be alright like the song says       http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4cmffLlkwxc  Happy Wednesday!!!

Tuesday, July 24, 2012

Good Morning!  Grey day out there, but the Son continues to shine within.  Had to actually get dressed up today as I'm joining my friend and her sister for brunch.  Brunch.  What a lovely word..it conjures up visions of orange juice in stemmed glasses, bright yellow fluffy scrambled eggs and all the rest of it under those glorious dome lids, huh?  Yeah.  Actually, we're calling it brunch only because we're not eating until 10:30 am.  But, meeting with friends with steaming plates of food is and always will be one of my favorite things to do!  Just wish it didn't cost so much and make me fat.  Haha.  Have a great day!!

a lost soul

James holmes..we see him in the court room.  He looks, to me, like a lost soul in need of redemption.  I know many hate him and I possibly would had my family member been his victim, but to look at him I see someone lost.  He did plan, he bought his weapons...can an insane person do that? Is he sane?  God only knows at this point.

Monday July 23, 2012

Hey good morning!  It's a new day, a new week, a new chance to get some things right.  Forgetting what lies behind, but pressing forward to what lies ahead.  God will be there with the grace and mercy to handle whatever comes.  Cling to Him!!  This is an unpredictable world and we need the faithfulness and consistancy of Jesus!!  Have a blessed week ahead!

Saturday July 21, 2012

Beautiful day.  Went for a walk then to Lowe's..Bob's toy store.  He's making our yard look so nice.  I see love when he mows past the front window, or hammering a hanging plant holder in the ground.  I may not hear mushy talk, but I get to see his love in action.  Better than empty words, right?  Hope you are enjoying your weekend.  I'm retired so days merge for me.  I know it's the weekend cuz my husband is home..when he retires I'll really be confused..but Sundays will always be noticed cuz I'll be in church.

Friday July 20, 2012

Tragic event in Aurora, Colorado.  A man entered a movie theater during the midnight showing of the new Batman move and opened fire on everyone.  12 dead, 50 injured..adults, kids, babies.  All under fire.  This is unbelievable.  I'm wondering how those weapons got into the theater.  What lies in the dark recesses of the mind of this killer, a young, good looking former pre-med student, to make him want as many dead as possible?  I'm glad he did not kill himself, so we can find out why he was harboring such hatred for his fellow man.  Free will.  God gives us that.  That man chose evil.  Innocent people are hurt when someone chooses evil over good.  Oh how we need God in this country..in this world.  Help us Lord Jesus.

Thursday July 19, 2012

Ah yes..I get to put my grandma skills to use today.  17 mo old Briley is coming to stay for a few hours. Each time I see her there's changes as she discovers more of this world she was born into.  The sun isn't shining but it's probably warm enough to scoot around outside in a stroller walk.  Play on the deck.  Say "no" a zillion times.  Her life isn't easy..a single mom so she gets shuffled here and there, but is a tough kid. I like to show her stuff about God and His love for her.  I like that scene in the movie "The Help" when the maid tells the child in her charge "you is smart", "you is beautiful", "you is loved".  That's the main thing..just love on em!

wednesday July 18, 2012

Good morning. Wednesday.  The middle of the week..never much cared for that when I worked.  Now as a retiree the days merge.  Once my husband retires I'll probably never know what day it is except on Sunday when marching off to church after eating waffles.  May you hear God tell you "This is the way..walk ye in it".

ideas

Dear fellow bloggers..how do you come up with ideas on what to blog? I refuse to cook my way thru Julia Childs cookbook, so that won't work.  Do they have to be long ?  Or can they be a couple sentances?  I'd love to hear your ideas

baseball

Well..the baseball season has begun and we're going to the home games.  The thing is..they are playing badly, and the weather has been rainy..so I'm questioning the wisdom of sitting around drenched watching our team lose.  I know we should show support, but I can only do that til about the 3rd inning cuz it takes them an hr and a half to make it to 3rd inning.  L-o-n-g games, l-o-s-i-n-g games, r-a-i-n-i-n-g games = g-o-i-n-g h-o-m-e e-a-r-l-y games.  Let's face it..I'm in it for the f-o-o-d!!

bad blogger

It's a fact..I'm a bad blogger!!  I just keep forgetting because I'm on Facebook and Twitter so much.

We've had some lovely visits with family.   Bob and Nita Price, my cousins, came by while on vacation.I forgot to take pictures so stole this lovely picture from Bob's blog.  Multnomah Falls was one of their stops this trip.  While here I fixed a roast dinner and they took me out to breakfast.  Loved our time together.  These are cousins I met late in life..quite a nice surprise!!

Bob and I zipped up to Renton Washington and back in one day.  We spent some time with my sister, Carolyn and her husband, Wayne. Next time we'll bring sleeping bags and air mattress and stay the night.

Our Volcano Ball Games began this last week.  5 games.  It was so stinkin cold when that wind blows that you'd think we were in Alaska watching a game.  We had one guy, first baseman, dislocate his knee cap (ow) and was hauled off the field in an Ambulance.  He showed up late that night in a full leg cast.  Not sure how long he's out of commission. This picture is of the EMTs working on him at first base.

Had great granddaughter's birthday party..fun times..had several grandkids there at a time so here's a picture of my daughter Kathi and me with the grands and great grands.  Missing was mia's mom, Hollee and baby sister Briley..here's her picture..that owie on her head is cuz she fell off my deck..YES I felt bad!!

Ok..it's nearly noon, so better get productive.  I'm pretty fast at cleaning house.  Wanna see it again?

Til next time....

Like dodging bullets

We bought a new refrigerator..old one konked out on us.  It was a side by side..like digging for treasure getting anything out of those narrow shelves.  Our new one had french doors (ooolala) and pull out freezer drawer at bottom.  We were so excited until we realized we had let an automatic weapon into our kitchen.  Each time we used the outside ice dispenser we were dodging "bullets" of ice cubes as rat a tat tat they shot out an extra half dozen after letting the lever go back.

Unfixable.

Unacceptable.

So, we called the store and said "come get this thing".  They did.  We have yet to see the refund on our credit card balance..grrrr.  This meant we needed to go buy another refrigerator.  This one is also french doors, but has extra middle drawer and pull out freezer below that.  Hmmmm..love love this one!!  We got to remove our hard hats when dispensing ice, also.  Cartwheel.  Now I'm waiting for the stove to go out cuz it's white and needs updated, right?  Anyway..whatever it takes to remove the boredom of cooking and cooking and cooking.

Oh yes..of course I have a picture of it...

Whiner..

oh..was just sittin here staring and waiting for the familiar page to post..duh..they've changed things.  You know I don't get that..when facebook, for example, makes changes they're never something easier for the user, so am guessing it's all about "them"..the owners.

Hubby will be home this next week..That means a few changes like getting dressed before noon..not checking Twitter or Facebook every hour.  A trial run for when he retires.

Bought a new stainless steel refrigerator.  I like it except it shoots ice out of the door dispenser like a machine gun.  I don't look good with an eye patch so ducking out of the way.  A repairman is coming next week..now, where did I put that old hard hat?

Hope you have a great week and keep safe over Memorial weekend!!!

Mother's Day 2012

Well..had dinner with my oldest on thursday..didn't know that was the mother's day celebration so NOTHING happening on Sunday..boo hoo.  I have another daughter and a son.  Asked daughter to go to church with me on Mother's day..no..Son doesn't speak to me so nothing happening there.  But, you know what?  I've finally reached a plateau.  I have zero expectations and that has helped me cope with the sadness.  When I invited my daughter to church I fully expected the liklihood of a negative reply so was able to say "Ok, if you change your mind you know where it is".  As for my son..he's an adult and can choose who he wants to  hang out with and it's not me.  I try to stay focused on a loving God and not look to the left or right where I see children honoring and loving them moms.  Of course, they were good moms and I had many failings.  I'm thankful for the forgiveness my Heavenly Father has bestowed on me and perhaps one day I'll get a wonderful surprise when that spills over to my kids.  I babysit a lot for my grandkids and know I am being used by my daughter, but how can I change that?  I love my grandkids!  As you can see by my writing this blog, I really am not ok with the whole thing and am quite sad.  But, this, too, shall pass.

Things are changing

oh man..now Obama has approved gay marriage.  My mind is blown once again by how things are changing and getting farther and farther from God's word.  Bible said this would happen in end times so I shouldn't be surprised, but I am.  It mentions even the elect will be led astray and they have.  God help us.  Each person has free will, something God gave us, but I don't think He had this in mind.  We will see when Jesus returns and it's time to stand before God with our good, our bad and our ugly.  Above all, I will love others regardless of their choices, but I might totally disagree with their lifestyle.  I know that's possible..Jesus demonstrated that by dying for us while we were in our sin.  I'm a sinner saved by grace. Amen!

I'm waiting for the words "you've got mail"

I long to hear those words "you've got mail" cuz that means the US Post Office found the vacation mail they've been holding while hubby and I were cruising in Mexico. Oh sure, I know there's bills in there..perhaps an AARP magazine reminding me of my age..but I still want it. I did everything right..filled out the yellow card, had the right dates..used good penmenship, too. I've called all the people and got someone who works in the "we hold your mail" place. "I'll call you back" he says. That was yesterday..hello? This is important yanno. FINE..they can pay my gas bill. Then maybe I'll hear the words "You've got gas"!!

cruisin!!

Ladies and Gentlemen..hear ye hear ye!! I am back from my cruise. Fat and happy. It lasted ten days. We drove from Oregon to Californa and left out of San Francisco on the princess star ship. 3000 passengers..most of whom were seniors like us. No bikini clad babes for bob to ogle..poor deprived baby.

We stopped at the Catalina Islands. Had a bus tour. Learned some things about the town....there's a 3rd street but no 1st, 2nd or 4th street. There a Bird Park with no birds. The Casino allows no gambling, and they named a street

Eucalyptis but it's one of the few streets that DON'T have a Eucalyptis tree on it. We had planned to do a zip line there (not offered by the cruise) but were nervous about the time..had only a few hours in afternoon there.

We got dressed up for the first formal night. This is the ship's photographer's rendition..too pink for my taste, but we are yukkin it up so that's good huh? We don't gamble, drink or dance but still managed to enjoy ourselves. The food..oh man..it's to die for!!! We ate our breakfasts at the buffet..well lunch too, except if we'd gone ashore.

Our 2nd stop was at Puerto Varralla. We went on another tour there..stops at a Taquila distillary where I had coffee flavored and vanilla taquila samples. At 38.00 a bottle we didn't buy any. Bob doesn't nor has he ever had a drink of any alcohol..don't want to ruin that record. She was a nice tour guide and her van had air. This was a tour not booked through the cruise either.

In between stops we had days at sea. We next went to Cabo and had a nice bus tour of San Jose. Saw the glass factory. This was the finished product in the picture.

We stopped at a fancy hotel and photo op. Then the town of San Jose where we saw a church, art stores and the local styles. Again, we had a nice guide. The bus was huge and even had a bathroom on it. No, I didn't.

Next stop was San Diego where we had some family come to join us and took us to a mall. We had some fun there. Here's a few pics of that time with Bob's brother, sister and nephew. After they returned us to the ship I ran ahead and bob took my picture while I was on top of the bridge of the ship.


After San Diego a day at sea. This last picture is the Titanic..the later years..haha. We had fun. We ate, hot tubbed, ate, swam, ate, went to movies and shows on stage, then walked all over the ship then ate some more!!! It was glorious and I can't wait to go again!!

not a blogger really

I guess I'm not a blogger really. Otherwise I'd post more. Right?

Been busy with grandkids, planning a cruise and healing an infection that is in my nose and spreading to my face..lovely. I wrote on facebook that I'm trying to think positively. Like how I'll save money by not having formal pictures taken. How I'll have to pool all to myself when they run in terror as I approach. I so wanted this to be a romantic cruise, but there'll be no eye to eye contact with this goin on. But, I'll continue my antibiotics, and ointment and we'll just see. Today is Wednesday and we leave Monday. Still some time right?

We're going on a ten day cruise Yes, I'll be fatter, but it'll be from quality food, not Big Macs. We were going to do a zip line in the Catalinas, but feel the amount of time in the area was cutting it close on an activity not booked thru the cruise.

My poor grandbaby has been sick. 105 temp. It finally broke last night. You working mothers have it rough when your kids are sick. My daughter has a new job and is still in trial service, but has missed a lot of work with herself and her kids being sick. Life is hard sometimes. We really need God's help to get through it.

I hope you have a wonderful week and weekend. I'll be thinking of you working while I'm reclining in a deck chair. (she doesn't mean it. You won't cross her mind)

Lincoln

On February 28, 2012 Lincoln Ray was born. Our newest grandson. 7 lbs 13 oz. He was almost a month early. They took him because he musta been drinkin amniotic fluid as ultra sounds tested low on fluids.

He is absolutely beautiful. Oh..you want to see pictures? Well, why didn't you say so!! Ok so first picture he's relaxing and eyes shut.

Ta dah!! Eyes are open..Here he is with his daddy. The word went out. I don't KNOW why it's lined or how to fix..cheesewhiz...anyway. He went home and here he is with his mommy. Well sure he likes me. Anybody can see that from this next picture!!!!

Also, he's telling grandpa all about his delivery here..he's a good speaker. He's explaining how the doctor pulled him out from a space "this" big and the rest is "history". We are thrilled with him. His mom and dad tried for many years to get pregnant and at last it happened. God is so cool isn't He!!!!