A Light in the window

Saturday, 1/28/12

2012-01-28T22:57:00.000-05:00

The first month of 2012 is almost gone! It has been a busy month. Classes started back, sickness, daughter had surgery, volunteering again. Busy.
But good.
I've been at my daughter's all week, helping her since her gall bladder surgery, helping with my grandson. What a joy!! He is a sweetie! 3 1/2 month old now!

I've been thinking about my blog. What to do? I enjoy blogging but it seems that I never have anything worth while to say. I've read back and more times than not, I'm complaining. Whining. Being negative. I dont' want to be that way. That's why I havent' posted in awhile. Have really had nothing to post about.

Going to take some time to think about this. Do I want to keep it up? I don't have a 'following' so to speak. I'm thankful to those who do read and comment.

What are some ways to keep a blog interesting?

First Saturday of 2012

2012-01-07T08:59:00.000-05:00

The new year is a week old.

My daughter and her little fam are safely back home in TN. New beginnings for them as her hubby starts a new job on Monday. Changes are not easy to take sometimes. The what-ifs can be scary.

So far this year I have not accomplished anything. Isnt' that sad? Depression, sickness, low vit. D., fibro pain, circumstances that need changing that I really have not control over. So what do I do? I shut down. I withdraw. That's not good. I know. I'm trying. But sometimes it's hard to know where to even start.
One thing for sure is to cut back on the overload of sugars I've been eating. And then my hubby brings home 4 (yes! 4 ) bags of Goetz Caramel Creams! Do you know how much I love these things? I now have a jar of them sitting on my table beside my chair where my ever-widening rump has been sitting the majority of the past week. sigh. So that jar will be going into the cabinet in the kitchen. Out of my sight.
Another sign of too much sugars is my excema is flaring bad. Of course that can be caused by stress as well.
Classes start back next week. It's going to be a busy semester but will be my last!!! Except for a couple classes in the summer.
I've got to get myself together before it ends! How am I going to find a job in the shape I'm in?
Standing (sitting) still is not going to get me out of this hole. It's starting to get dark down here.

Day 3 of 2012

2012-01-03T14:40:00.000-05:00

Christmas day has come and gone. To be honest it really didnt' even seem like Christmas. The weather here has been milder than normal.
My daughter and her little family were here for almost 2 weeks!! It was so good to have them here. Our little grandson is such a joy! He really enjoyed opening his presents!

He is such sweetie! He loves to be talked to and will 'talk' back to you. Hard to beleive he is 3 mo old!

The downside of Christmas was sickness. My son, husband, then I got the sinus/chest crude that has been going around. It has zapped me of my energy and today I feel like the crude is trying to come back. Then Christmas Eve, my son had the 24 hr tummy bug. We were all concerned that little Andrew would get sick but thankfully he didn't. And thankfully, no one else got the tummy bug!! My 78 yr old mother did not get to meet Andrew :(. She has been sick for over a week. Flu like symptoms but the flu-test was negative.

Andrew loved his "buddy bear" mimi and grandpa got him. It is so soft and mimi made sure that nothing would pull off or that it wouldn't fuzz up if he put it in his mouth. I don't know how many bears I tested. I pulled and tugged on every part of the bear. This one is also asthma and allergy friendly.

We had our first snow of the year last night. Just a skiff on the ground and it is soo cold!

Today is my son's 21st birthday!! Hard to believe.

Classes start back next week. I'm looking forward to getting back into the routine of it. I need to get my book bag and other things together and ready.

I'm already looking forward to Spring. Just 11 more weeks, if I counted right! I'm sure we will have more winter weather before it actually starts to feel like Spring.

I have not taken time to reflect on 2011 or to look forward to what I would like 2012 to be.

I dont' make resolutions. I would like to set some goals.

What are your goals for 2012? What do you do to reach your goals?

1/1/12

2012-01-01T07:49:00.000-05:00

Hoping your New Year will be filled with many blessings!!

Tradtional Foods

2011-12-30T10:28:00.000-05:00

This would be great in helping me to eat more traditional foods. Go over and enter to win!
http://www.cookingtf.com/2011/12/30/giveaway-one-year-menu-mailer-package-subscription/#comment-3018

2011-12-21T10:33:00.000-05:00

Wishing you all a Wonderful Merry Christmas!!

Looks like Santa's LIttle Helper is tuckered out.

2011-11-25T09:03:00.000-05:00

Looks like someone has a full belly and is ready for a nap!!! Look at those long legs!!

Well, Thanksgiving day is over, now I'm ready for the Christmas madness to start. No black Friday shopping for me, tho. I would love to do that some time, tho. As long as I had enough money to spend to make up for dealing with all the crowds and rude people.

I'll be here at home, getting my house back into order after yesterday and doing some school work. I have a major final to finish before Monday. Going to be sitting down sometime and making out a game plan for the next few weeks. Making the plan is not that hard, it's working the plan that I have trouble with. And a plan doesnt' work unless you work the plan!!

change of plans

2011-11-23T11:06:00.000-05:00

Dh said he would rather I just buy a (fresher) turkey and use the old one to cook down for stock, etc. So that is what I did. Guess I"ll spend Friday cooking down the old bird, getting it in the freezer, etc. I dont 'do the shopping thing on "black Friday". And I'm not going to brine the one I bought. It was frozen so it is in the cooler under water, thawing. Hopefully it will be thawed by tomorrow.

HAPPY THANKSGIVING TO YOU ALL!!

The season has begun

2011-11-19T09:38:00.000-05:00

It has came up on us fast this year. I'm starting to enjoy the 'sounds of the season'. Actually looking forward to decorating. I'll probly start that the week after Thanksgiving.

Speaking of Thanksgiving, I have a wild turkey in the refrigerator, thawing. It is a couple years old but I've read several places that, even tho it will have lost some of it's quality it will still be good. So I'm going with that! I'm going to try brining this year. I've found several recipes for brine online and I saw Mario Batali on The Chew yesterday and he was brining a turkey. He had also had the turkey, the whole turkey, deboned! I looked online for a tuturial, maybe I'll try it with a chicken first. There are several tutorials on youtube. He then put the stuffing on, rolled it up, tied it with string and baked it.

Guess where I went this past Tuesday!?!? To see Mannheim Steamroller in concert!! It was awesome! I had seen where they were going to be at the civic center, there was no way I could afford tickets. Our local tv station had a contest, so I entered mine and my son's info (who loves them too!) He called me at school the next week and said that someone from the tv station had called him and he had won two tickets to see them!!! He didnt' even know I had entered his name. It was great! One of my favorites is "Silent Night" . If you click on it, it will take you to Youtube for the video. I enjoyed that time with my son, too.

Hopefully will get to see my grandson the week after Thanksgiving. They are coming here for Christmas! Looking forward to that!

What are your plans for Thanksgiving? Do you have a favorite must-have dish that you prepare? Mine is fruit salad. Mom always made this and it goes so well with turkey.

~~til later

Beautiful Saturday, Nov. 12, 2011

2011-11-12T14:21:00.000-05:00

2 weeks til Thanksgiving!! I'm ready for some turkey, dressings, and all the other stuff that comes with it.

Today my little grandson, Andrew, is one month old!! Isnt' he the cutest? He has the sweetest smiles. We will hopefully be going to see him next weekend.

I've been in a bit of a funk lately. Barely getting the necessities done. Something has to change. I determined today that I would get some cleaning done. So far I've gotten the bathroom scrubbed, swept and mopped. Now I'm working my way thru the hall into the kitchen.
I'm taking a break right now. Getting dizzy is not good when you are trying to clean.

It was down right chilly the past couple nights, down in the 20s night before last. Today is warmer and the sun is shining so nicely. I even have a window or two open.

Well, I'll get back to my cleaning.

2011-11-10T19:43:00.000-05:00

I love blog hopping! Found this cute, fun blog today and she is doing a give away! Go check it out!
http://sweethomestitchery.blogspot.com/2011/11/november-giveaway.html

2011-10-28T16:48:00.000-04:00

Is this not the sweetest little thing you’ve ever seen?!?! Little Andrew was two weeks old on Wednesday. He has the sweetest smiles. He has a sneaky look in his eyes in this picture.

Today is his first official photo shoot. A friend of my daughter’s is a photographer and she is doing his pictures. I know she is going to have such fun with him.

It is a rather cold, rainy fall day here in the mountains of NC.

So beautiful! The colors have been great this year. This is a tree next to our driveway. Dh and son have been kept busy trying to keep up with them. It bothers my husband to no end for leaves to be in the yard. The temperature is supposed to be in the 40’s for the next few days.

I’m having veggie soup and cornbread for supper tonight, a perfect meal for a day like today.
I will brown some ground beef to go in. Add some pasta, too.
What is your favorite meal for chilly, fall days?

Andrew Carson is here!!

2011-10-18T09:09:00.000-04:00

He is a beautiful, perfect little man!! Weighed 8 lbs 6 oz, 21 in. long. All arms and legs!

Can't wait to see him again this weekend!!

waiting

2011-10-07T10:02:00.000-04:00

~~still no grandbaby! Anytime between now and next Wednesday when she is scheduled for induction. Can't wait to see little Andrew!! The dr says he will be over 8 lbs!

As you can see by the picture, the temps have been cooler of the mornings. A few mornings they were in the 40's. The leaves are changing colors. I read in the news the other day that this was going to be a good one this year. I'm hoping to take a day trip (or two) to see it. Maybe pack a picnic. Yes, there is a granddaddy longlegs on the thermometer. Guess he was seeing what the temp was too.

I moved the bird feeder up to the porch a couple months ago. Where it was hanging I could not keep the squirrels off of it. Since I've moved it, I've only see one on there twice. It is within easy access so I'm not sure why, but I'm glad! I've enjoyed watching them from my kitchen window. I've had a female downy woodpecker come most every day.

This picture is from WBU.com. She is a beauty! Hope to get some pictures of my own soon.

~~til later

Fall has arrived!

2011-09-26T21:27:00.000-04:00

I am loving this weather! As you can see from the picture, some of the trees and foliage are already starting to turn. I'm hoping we have a good color season this year. The temps are beginning to cool down. There is just that feeling in the air. Soon my husband will be busy trying to keep up with the leaves that fall in our yard.

We spent a few days last week with my daughter and her husband in TN. Her due date is just around the corner! We will be making that trip again soon.

I got several good suggestions on my last post as to what I should do. I have decided to do some volunteering. I begin next week at a free medical clinic in town! I'm really excited about this. This will not only allow me to gain experience in what I'm going to school for but also will allow me to help others. This clinic is ran by a Christian organization that has several different ministries, including a women's and children's shelter. I will be working one evening a week there. Not sure yet what the extent of my administrative duties will be there.

This is going to take me out of my comfort zone, that is for sure!

I've been thinking of fried potatoes, cooked apples, fried apple pies, sweet breads, soups and stews. Oh! And pumpkin. I looked for canned pumpkin in the store the other day and found none. I wonder if there is a "shortage" on pumpkins again this year. I may just have to make a trip to the farmers market and get one or two to cook and put in the freezer. I love pumpkin oatmeal! I just put my oatmeal in the pan to cook, usually just one or two servings, add a third cup or so of pumpkin, sprinkle of cinnamon (you can add pumpkin pie spice if you have it), some raisins. Cook, then add some brown sugar and walnuts before eating. Yum!! and so filling.

What is your favorite fall food? Please share the recipe.

~~til later

Quilt clubs, knit clubs, mysteries

2011-09-17T11:52:00.000-04:00

Lately I've been reading alot of mysteries and most of them have evolved around either quilting or knitting. Debbie Macomber, Clare O'Donahue, Jennifer Chiaverini, and there's another, I can't remember the author. There is a 'club' in all of them that meet once a week and work on projects, talk, eat, fellowship, become friends and help each other thru thick and thin. Would that not be fun!?!? I would love to be a part of something like that. Not sure if it is becuase I'm reaching middle age, empty nest, hor(ror)mones or just general unease and discontent but I seem to be longing to be a part of 'something' lately. It really doesn't have to be knitting or quilting, maybe it could be a group of ladies who come together to work on projects for charity. I don't know.

Seems all I do lately is school work. I'm overwhelmed with it. I know I 'chose' to bring that into my life's madness but I also know that in the end there will be a reward for it. Not sure where it will lead me but I'm excited about it.

Is this what they call 'midlife crisis'?

So. What are any of you in a group like this? Charity? Volunteer?

I need an outlet. I need a 'break'. Any suggestion?

2011-09-16T17:00:00.002-04:00

I'm still around. Not sure if I need to keep this blog or not. Cant seem to find anything to say.

My grandbaby is due Oct. 8, so we are patiently waiting. She has already started dilating so....

School is still school. Homework is overwhelming. But I'm keeping up with it at least.

Fall is in the air. Don't think it hit 60 here at my house today. We are heading to the fair to meet up with some friends. It's going to be a bit chilly out there and I'm not really ready for it in the clothing area. Hopefully there will be some hot coffee or some hot apple cider. And a funnel cake.

So how do ya'll keep up with your blog? Do you have a theme that you stick to? Do you write about certain things or just whatever comes to mind? I love reading blogs. Maybe I will set a goal of one day a week to come here and write--about something.

Guess it's time for a post.

2011-07-31T18:50:00.000-04:00

Seems I've been neglecting my posting lately. I'll come here and read but just haven't had much to say or haven't taken the time to say it.

So here is a bit of an update on what has been going on here.

Almost thru with the summer semester! Only 1 more final to take, then I'll have a week and a half break! I'm so ready for that. I have plenty of things to get caught up on and I need to get my sewing machine working good so I can get some sewing done for the baby!!

Speaking of which will be arriving in about 10 weeks!!! My daughter and sil were here this weekend. My church had a baby shower for her.

Is this not the cutest cake?!?! The lady that made this, also made my daughter's wedding cake. She does such an awesome job! And it was so good, too.

I've cut back on my breads and sugars. I can tell a difference as far as how my tummy has been reacting. I've not had as much reflux/heart burn. I've notice the times that I've eaten sugary stuff (like the peach cobbler I just ate :) ) my tummy hurts. I'm still reading and reading about traditional foods. I want to get the book "Nourishing Traditions". But there is so much here on the internet. One thing that is recommended is 'fermented' foods. I love pickled beans and corn and didnt' realize that it is actually a fermented food. My husband's grandmother (Big Grandma) made it when she was living. I loved it! So, I decided to try my hand at it

I think it has turned out good! I would love to have an old crock to make it in but this jar will have to do. I want to make some kraut and I've found a relish recipe to make this way as well. I kinda followed the recipe here. I only used beans and corn, tho.

Since I've been eating (or trying to eat) this way, I have lost a few lbs and can tell a difference how I feel. I can realy notice it after I've eaten sugary stuff. It's hard to explain how I feel, kinda groggy, heavy headed feeling. It's going to be a journey that is for sure.

I tried making a sourdough starter but it didnt' work, so I'm going to try again. I love breads and I'm hoping that I'll be able to tolerate it better than regular breads.

Off to study some more on my medical terminology test. Finals this week!!

What is today?

2011-07-05T09:49:00.000-04:00

This 'holiday' weekend has messed up my schedule. Yesterday I thought today would be Sunday. Today I have no clue what day it is!
I'm finally getting around to posting more pictures of the crinium lily. It sure didn't last long. And a hard rain didn't help either. The blooms only lasted one day so not all of them were bloomed out at the same time.

Traditional foods

2011-07-03T23:00:00.000-04:00

I've been doing some researching about traditional foods, gluten-free eating, etc. I have found so many websites online that I'm a bit overwhelmed!
One of the websites I found is cookingtf.com. Lots of info here and there is a forum!
I have not been diagnosed with having gluten allergies but I do feel that I do have them. I want to be healthy. I have not 'felt' right in a long time. I just feel like something is not right~~somewhere.

Cookingtf.com is having a giveway!! It is for a year subscription for the menu mailer! This would be such a help. You can check it out here.

Go have a look!!

Sunday morn

2011-06-26T07:55:00.000-04:00

taken one day last week.

I'm the only one up so far. It's nice. I love mornings. I hear the birds outside wondering why the birdfeeder hasnt' been hung up. We have to bring it in at night because of the bears. I've had several feeders...and poles...destroyed by them.

It has been a good week, still kinda stressful with all the online school work I'm doing but I think, now that we are half way into this semester, that I'm finally getting caught up and settling into a routine..of sorts.

My crinium lily is blooming!! It is so pretty! Mom gave it to me last yr, actually there were 3 bulbs. This is the only one blooming and it is the smallest of the plants.

Here is a preview, this was, I think 4 days ago? See all the little buds down in there? I think I counted nine. I'll post more pictures later.

My daughter is doing well. She is about 25 weeks now. They will be checking her glucose in a couple weeks. They suspect it might be high. Here is the latest pictures of the baby. This is a 3D ultra sound. I tell ya, those things have come along way since I was pregnant with her! It is amazing! I just want to smooch on those cheeks!!

Ya'll have a blessed day!!

Quiet Sunday

2011-06-19T16:53:00.000-04:00

All I'm hearing right now is the hum of the refrigerator and the ticking of the clock. Sounds so good!!
Oh! And the occasional snore of my dear husband. He's napping on the couch.

It has been a stormy weekend here in western NC. A very windy stormed came thru yesterday, knocking down trees. Thankfully no big trees were knocked down here around us but our yard was full of limbs. Saw reports of a huge tree that went thru the middle of a mobile home, completely cut it into. Thankfully no one was injured.
The power went out during church this morning. Our pastor just kept right on preaching.

A few things on my mind today~~
How am I'm going to get thru this semester? It has been rough. I think I'm finally getting caught up on my work. Seems that's all I'm doing. I've made out my resume and will be putting in some applications around. I really don't know how I'm going to do school and work. I left my job in the tuxedo shop, been home about a month now. I'm praying I can get a job in a medical office and then they help me with the rest of my classes I need. We will see.

My daughter is at 24 weeks now! She goes back to the dr this week. They will do another ultra sound to check her placenta-the last one showed it was low. Not sure what they will do if it still is. Praying it won't be.
I'm going to be busy planning a shower for the end of July. I love baby showers. A dear lady in the church, who owns a catering business and does a fantastic job, has said she wants to make the cake!! She made my daughters wedding cake and it was beautiful! And delicious too.

Well, I'm off to do more work.
~~til later

hot summer days..

2011-06-10T16:30:00.000-04:00

Temps have been in the 90's most days here lately. I'm thankful for the air conditioner. We've had a storm almost every evening too. Here in the mountains it can be pouring rain,hailing, etc in one area, a mile down the road or just over the ridge there will be sunshining. Love the mountains!!

I'm finally feeling better. Dr. upped my thyroid meds and I'm taking a prescript vit. D. Between the two being low, I was pretty much not worth anything.

I bought some flannel this week, going to make a few receiving blankets for my grandson. Squeee!! He'll be here before we know it.

I came home the other day and my son had brought these in. Aren't they pretty? Not sure what the real name is, I've always heard them called ditch lilies. They grow wild down around the creek.

Since our trip a few weeks ago to TN I've been searching real estate in western TN. Dreaming of maybe someday moving there, kinda in the middle of here and where our daughter lives. Right now it's a six hour drive. Way too long when you have grandbabies to spoil.

My mom was born in eastern TN in Sulpur Springs area. I loved going over there to visit my grandmother and all the family.

If you live or have lived in TN what do you like most about it?

Long time, no blog

2011-06-04T07:25:00.000-04:00

I have been busy busy with school, work, home. sigh. I've had to let some things go and blogging has been one of them. I have browsed a bit but just haven't taken time to post.

I have exciting news!! Our little grand is a boy!! I can just see little Carharts and camo in the future. I've already looked at the Carhart coveralls at Bass Pro! I'll miss making the frilly dresses I had visioned but that's ok. Little boy sugars are just as special as the little girls.

I'm in the summer semester of school. Whew"! I'm already so far behind! Trying to pace myself and do a bit at a time. Most of the work is done out side the class room online.

Off to get the day going.

Win a Signed Copy of Reshaping It All!

2011-05-10T08:37:00.000-04:00

Remember Candace on Full House? She has written a book.

Win a Signed Copy of Reshaping It All!

It's Tuesday

2011-05-10T08:20:00.001-04:00

Oops! I just deleted my post!!
I have a new laptop and I'm still not use to it, keep hitting buttons I"m not suppose to hit. We'll try this again.

I'm sitting on my porch, listening to the birds, watching the sun come over the mountain. I"m missed mornings. I'm finished with school this semester. I think I've done pretty good!! Next semester starts in a couple weeks. I'll only be taking 2 classes this summer. I'll be thru later than I had wanted but some classes were full so couldn't take them.

Well, guess that's all for now Gotta get going, have to work today.
~~til later

what's been going on at my house lately

2011-05-01T21:14:00.000-04:00

Spring has sprung!
Bleeding Heart is blooming. Not as pretty this yr as it has been in the past. Not sure why.
Son has a job!!
Finals are this week! Wow! this semester went by fast. How do I feel about it? I feel that I could have done better. I've done ok but I think I could have applied myself abit more. Not waiting til the last minute to get my work done, etc.
Prom season is upon us and the tux shop I work in is beyond busy. The manager is happy tho.
Haven't been taking any pictures lately. Sad.
I have a laptop!! I love it.
Our daughter is now 17 wks pregnant!! She is doing well, baby's heart beat good. She has a cute little baby bump.

Off to more studying.
~~til later

Happy Easter!!

2011-04-23T07:48:00.000-04:00

Spring!!

2011-04-13T11:59:00.000-04:00

I think Spring has arrived! It has been beautiful, warm, stormy, chilly, a mix of everything. One day within a 30 min time period it went from snowing/sleeting to sunshine back to sleet. Weird. Yesterday was about 20* cooler than Sunday.

I went out for a bit and pulled some weeds. Noticed my Crinium Lily my mom gave me last yr is coming up. I hope it blooms this yr. It is so pretty.

Well, school is going good. We are on spring break this week. I have homework and tests to study for. Then we only have about 3 weeks when we go back. I'll be registering April 28th for summer and fall classes. I still enjoy school!! I love learning. It just gets hard sometimes, trying to balance it, work and home. I'm so looking forward to the end, tho and I can get into a job that is rewarding. My prayer is that God will open a door somewhere in an organization that is mission minded. I dont' know why. I just have this on my heart to do and feel that is the direction God is taking me.

I've been reading alot lately about anti-inflammatory foods. Dr. Weil, Dr. Perricone and some others have some info on their websites. It's interesting.
During my reading I saw something about soaking nuts and why they should be soaked. It makes sense. So I tried some. Yum! I love the taste of them. I read, too that Dr. Oz keeps some walnuts in a jar of water at his desk.
I'm trying to eat more veggies, more lean protein, less carbs, sugars, processed foods. I know I have to stay away from any kind of processed meats, as much as I love a good roasted hotdog. I know it will be a 'one step at a time' process.
I go to the bone/joint dr on Friday. I've been having chronic pain/inflammation. My reg. dr wants me to see a rheumatologist as well. I don't look forward to all of this but want to find out what is going on.

Well, I"m off, have things to do before work.
~~til later

Hello!

2011-03-30T13:50:00.000-04:00

I'm Baby Selph! The doctor says I'm at 12 wks. I have a good strong heartbeat and everything looks good. Momma says I was moving around quite abit when the dr. was trying to take a picture of me but when momma would giggle, I'd stop moving. According to the dr. I will make my appearance on October 8th. My Mimi/Gigi/Gramma (not sure what I'll call her yet) is so excited and can't wait til she can give me all kinds of hugs and smooches!!

Is it Friday already?

2011-03-11T08:40:00.000-05:00

Do you ever have weeks where the first part seems to take forever and then all the sudden, the week is over? Well, that's what this week has been like.
My world is moving faster and faster it seems. I'm trying my best to keep up with it.

Not much has been going on around here except work and school. I wish I had more exciting news to tell, pictures to show. But I dont'. One reason being, my camera batteries and card are in my son's camera. In his Jeep.

But good things are still happening. Spring is on its way. We had a skiff f snow this morning, after a few days of heavy rain.

The heavy rain caused quite a few problems here in western NC. Flooding, wrecks, etc. My husband works for a furniture company and two of his drivers wrecked after the shoulder gave way with them. From the looks of the truck, Someone was looking out for them. I really dont' see how they got out of it with only the injuries they did. One of the guys was being transported to the hospital in an ambulance, a truck in front of them hydroplaned and cause them to wreck. So this poor fella was involved in two accidents in one day!!

My daughter is now 8 weeks!! Oh my!

School is going well. I'm holding good with my grades. Will be meeting with my advisor in a couple weeks to plan the summer and fall semesters.

So, I'm off.
Ya'll have a blessed day!!

It's Friday!!

2011-03-04T07:52:00.000-05:00

I've been working for the weekend this week. I've had classes and worked everyday except Monday. I'm quite tired. No classes today but I work. I'm off this weekend!!!

We have been having such beautiful weather! Except for the bad storm that came thru on Monday. That wind was fierce!!

My daffodils are blooming and I saw a yellowbell bush (forsythia) the other day that was full of blooms. Just gorgeous.

March came in like a lamb here. I'm sure we'll get some more winter weather before it finally gives up its reign to Spring.

Thank you all for the congrats on me being a Gramma. I'm trying to decide what I want to be called. Gigi, Mimi, Grammie, Gramma, Granna? My daughter says Gigi sounds like a showgirl. Guess I can't be that.

I put a new blog on my blog list. I have always loved heirloom sewing and have wanted to learn the technique. I enjoy embroidery and handsewing. This lady does such beautiful work!

I am doing well in my classes. I really enjoy going to school! I love to learn. This summer I'll probly on take a couple classes since it is only a ten week semester. And...the price per credit hour for the summer is almost double what this semester is. The reason is that the school is not receiving any state funding. It will not be as high in the fall semester. It will take me a bit longer but that's ok.

If you have grandchildren, what do they call you?

Thursday Thinking

2011-02-24T11:23:00.000-05:00

The date on this picture was Oct 2008. It was taken on a wildlife cam, just right across our little creek. My husband had put out some apples to see if we could get some pictures of the bears. We did but caught these as well. They are still around, maybe not these same two but we hear a pack of them every time the train blows it's whistle. Kinda spooky.

I'm between place right now. Had a class 8-9 this morning then I go to work at 1. I have housework that I need to be doing. I have started a load of laundry.

We visited with our daughter and sil over the weekend. Poor thing is quite nauseated and sick.  Hoping it doesnt' last long. She goes to the doctor March 28th or 29th, she's about 5 wks or so. So looks like an October baby!!! She is going to be such a good momma.

I'm resisting the urge to buy clothes for he/she. Such cutes ones!! And I love, love Gymboree!! We have one in the mall where I work and I love going in there.  You can get some good deals too.

Well, I'm off to get my list of things completed.

I'll make this short and oh!! so sweet!!!

2011-02-15T17:59:00.000-05:00

I'm going to be a grandmother!!!!

More to come later!!

2011-02-10T09:43:00.001-05:00

last weeks morning fog

Another "snow event". But~~we will be warming up to the 60's by next week!! That will feel so good! I know winter isnt' over yet, but according the Mr. Groundhog, Spring in on its way. And I'm so ready for it.

Well, my med terms test? I made a C. I guess that's ok but I was really disappointed. It's hard learning all those words and how they are spelled. So, I need to put more effort and time into studying. I'm doing well in my other classes, tho.

I'm not as stressed over this as I was in my last post. I'm kinda getting into the routine of it all. I've done better this week in cooking and keeping up with the dishes and laundry. One thing that really helped was my sweet husband cleaning the house last Friday. I'm so thankful for him. He has been so encouraging in all this. I'm really looking forward to what I can do with this. I'm praying as to where God wants me to work.

I have some news but can't share it yet!! I'm so excited. More changes are coming our way. We have been truly blessed in the family. To see where we started from and where we are going. Just amazing! Shows the awesome Grace of our Father.

I'm off to the chiro and then to work.

Ya'll have a blessed day!

2011-01-31T19:56:00.000-05:00

sunset

Taking a break from studying. I have a medical terminology test tomorrow. I've been making flash cards, have a huge stack of'em. One way I'm learning them is by association. Like 'hemianesthesia'. Hemi is half and anesthesia is feeling. I associate 'hemi' with a Hemi truck, which I think is funny cuase a Hemi truck is suppose to be a powerful thing but hemi actually mean half. Hemianesthesia means feeling on one side of the body.
(OK, I had to look it up, Hemispherical Compustion Chamber. A round dome-shaped combustion chamber. http://www.ptdoityourself.net/tl/info_combustionchamber.html )

Yesterday was a gorgeous day!! So warm! A little tease of springtime. Had to keep reminding myself that it's still January. But it also gives me hope that springtime is on it's way!!

For my supper, I pulled a bag of great northern beans out of the freezer. I had cooked them awhile back with some ham. I heated up some turnip greens. Mmmm! So good! I could live on beans and greens, I think. Cornbread would have been good with it but I didnt' take the time to fix any.

I need to find some recipes that I can cook ahead of time and freeze for those evenings-like this one-when I have so much studying to do. And since my dear husband is trying his best to lower his cholesterol, I need them to be good for ya. Any ideas?

~~til later

Thankful Thursday

2011-01-27T08:47:00.000-05:00

I am thankful today. Even tho I'm still not feelign too good. Another class missed today. I woke about oh, 4am or so, worried about this school thing, I'm having doubts as to how I'm going to do. Prayed. I need strength. I know that being sick is not a good time to worry about things. Things are double in size when you're sick. I think of HALT. Hungry, Angry, Lonely, Tired. And I'll had Sick as the first one and make it into SHALT, as in thou SHALT not worry!!

eastern sky

So, today I'm thankful that I woke with a bit of peace, after crying out to God, letting Him know I need Him. And I know that He will help me, guide me.

I need to make a decision about some meds I'm on. Do I continue taking them? Thankfully I go for a physical today. Going to talk with the doc about it, see what my other options are.

On a lighter, fun note~~I've been blog hopping this mornign and found an awesome giveaway!!!

Amy at All Things Home is having a "giveaway filled with love". I just found her blog but I will be returning.

~~til later

quick check in

2011-01-25T22:05:00.000-05:00

thought I'd post before I hit the hay! Not feeling too good-went to dr, she said left tonsil is "huge!". I know it hurts!! but only at the bottom and at the very back of my tongue on that left side. Odd. But she put me on an antibiotic. I have an appt Thursday for a physical/blood work, so my regular dr will recheck and let me know what the strep culture was. I've been trying to keep my hands washed, clean my computer at school, etc but when you're sitting in a small classroom with someone who is sneezing and blowing their nose-well, kinda hard not to contact some germs.

School so far is going. I'm starting to feel a bit overwhelmed. I cant' get used to how to keep up with it all on the computer program thing they use. It's so different than when I was in school, oh, moons ago. Plus the weather has not cooperated and we're a week behind because of missed days. But I'm slowing getting the hang of it.

I keep reminding myself of the end result.

Well, I'm off to bed. We are suppose to get more wintery weather tomorrow. I'm secretly hoping that school will be canceled tomorrow so I can stay home and it not be counted against me.

~~til later

I have to admit~~

2011-01-11T15:17:00.000-05:00

I'm ready for spring. I love the snow. I think there is nothing more beautiful or peaceful than snow falling. I seem to have more headaches in the winter-I can sure tell when we are going to get a snow or when there is a change in the weather pattern. It's weird how the weather affects our body's. I'm also achey-er (is that how its spelt?).

We have about 6 or so inches on the ground now. Suppose to warm up to the 40's by the weekend.

I was suppose to start my classes yesterday but the college was closed-today also. I'm hoping it will be open tomorrow. I'm ready to get this started. I have had a couple assignment. There is a 'blackboard' thing on the college website that students/teachers can interact, teachers send assignments, etc. It was overwhelming for me when I first went on there but I've been playing around with it and I think I'll get the hang of it all. It's all a scary process for me but I'm really looking forward to what's in store.

Dh and I have to make a decision about health insurance. If we stay with what they are offering thru his work, then it is going to go up, in premium and deductible. And it won't pay ANYTHING until the deductible is met. Nothing. Not even on prescripts. It's so frustrating. Dh has looked into some other plans. Premiums higher, deductible lower, not everything out of pocket. We need to sit down and go over it. Our current insurance ends the end of this month.

I want to thank each of you who read and comment. Hope you continue to visit me.

~~til later

Wandering Wednesday

2011-01-05T10:13:00.000-05:00

My thoughts are wandering/wondering all over the place this morning. I really need to be washing dishes, finishing laundry, getting ready for work. but here I sit. I have cleaned out the refrig., had coffee, breakfast and meds, have a load of laundry in the dryer, looked over the bills, worked on the check book. So, I havent' been completely lazy.

Lots of things to wonder about this new yr. Changes taking place, new adventures, new concerns.
Here are a few of my wonderings.

Oh, but first!! My son, my little boy, turned 20 yrs old on Jan. 3rd!!!! How in the world did I get old enough to have a 20 yr old?!?! He's my bud, makes me laugh, knows just how to get me riled, and enjoys doing it. Still has alot of growing up to do but I know he'll get there. Eventually.

What is on my mind right now~~

I'm starting classes on Jan 10th! I'll be taking Medical Office Administration. I'm so excited about learning a new career. But at 46 yrs old, I'm a bit nervous about going back into the class room. I have all these thoughts of high school, even grade school. I did not have good school yrs. In first grade, I cried most every day and the teacher, and class mates made fun of me. This followed me all thru school. I still have fears about this. But I know that I'm older and no one can intimidate me unless I let them.

Keeping up with the homework, housework, family, pt job and myself is going to be a challenge. I'm so scatter brained and it's hard to get things accomplished when your minds is going in a thousand different directions. I know there is Flyday but to be honest? I get so tired of her emails. And I rebel against them.
The one thing that I really rebel against is the getting up, getting dressed to shoes thing. I dont' know why I have such a hard time with this. So, that is one of my goals, even when I dont' have anywhere to go. I need to be up and ready for the day.
I'm sure this is so easy for some of you.

Getting back into God's Word. This really needs to be first on my list. As a new yr starts, there is reflection on the past yr, on how you've lived or not lived it, what you've accomplished or not accomplished, etc.
Thru my new adventure in school, the challenges it will bring, I need to keep this first.

Well, enough wandering for now. On to meet the day.

~~til later

Spicy Walnut-Raisin Pie

2010-12-27T19:32:00.000-05:00

Whew! I thought we's goina get blown away last night!!

Yesterday this was over 8 in. of snow. But this morning this wind had blown til you could see the grass. It was laying in drifts around the house.
Our daughter and sil made it safely back home today. I'm thankful. They have to go thru "The Gorge" on I40 into TN. It was down to one lane and this evening the powers that be were strongly urging people to take an alternate route.

My son got into a cooking mood today. He started looking for a peanut butter pie recipe in an older Betty Crocker cookbook and found this one instead. This is his first time making a pie! He did a good job. It is yummy!

Good with whipped topping on it.

SPICEY WALNUT-RAISIN PIE

Pastry for 9 in One Crust Pie (I used bought frozen)

2 eggs

1/2 c. sugar

1/4 tsp each salt

cinnamon

nutmeg

cloves

3/4 c. corn syrup (all I had was dark corn syrup)

1/4 c. margarine or butter, melted

1/3 c. coarsely chopped walnuts

1/3 c. raisins

Heat oven to 375*. Prepare pastry. Beat eggs, sugar, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, corn syrup and margarine with hand beater. Stir in walnuts and raisins. Pour into pastry.

Bake until filling is set, 40-50 minutes. Serve warm or refrigerate.

~~til later

Merry day after Christmas!!

2010-12-26T12:14:00.000-05:00

We have about 8+ in on the ground. It is so beautiful and peaceful outside. But cold!!

We were able to make it to my mother in laws house for Christmas dinner and then we made it to see my mom for a bit.

But got stuck in the driveway when we got home.
My husband and son were able to make it out to the store this morning in our son's 4 wheel drive. The roads are still in bad shape.

We had a pleasant surprise Friday day. All week we had been getting ready, somewhat for Christmas but knew we had an extra week, cause our daughter and son in law werent' coming in until then. We had most of the presents bought but nothing except candy for the stockings.

Ds went out riding around Friday night. Dh and I were just taking it easy here in the house. I heard our son come drive into the yard, the door opened and there was my sweet daughter!!! What a surprise!! They had been planning it for a couple weeks and our son was in on it.

So good to have them home for Christmas!!

Even tho I didnt' get anything thing in my stocking. Think that is the first Christmas ever that I hadnt'. But that's ok. Her being here makes up for it.

Now her and her husband are stuck!! Cant' get back home to Nashville today as they had planned!! Too bad. ;)

~~til later

Monday morning skies

2010-12-20T09:46:00.001-05:00

I woke this morning and noticed a redish glow coming in the windows. I knew that there were red skies.

In front of my house the sky was clear except for this little cloud and a few streaks from jets.

But behind the house?

This is what it looked like~~

Absolutely beautiful!!

I thought of the saying "Red skies in the morning, sailors warning". There is scripture in Matt 16

1The Pharisees also with the Sadducees came, and tempting desired him that he would shew them a sign from heaven. 2He answered and said unto them, When it is evening, ye say, It will be fair weather: for the sky is red. 3And in the morning, It will be foul weather to day: for the sky is red and lowring. O ye hypocrites, ye can discern the face of the sky; but can ye not discern the signs of the times? 4A wicked and adulterous generation seeketh after a sign; and there shall no sign be given unto it, but the sign of the prophet Jonas. And he left them, and departed

I found this site that explains the whys of it.

http://www.loc.gov/rr/scitech/mysteries/weather-sailor.html

"Red sky in morning, sailor’s warning.
A red sunrise reflects the dust particles of a system that has just passed from the west. This indicates that a storm system may be moving to the east. If the morning sky is a deep fiery red, it means a high water content in the atmosphere. So, rain is on its way."

I looked at the weather forecast and we are suppose to get some ice by Tuesday morning. Thankfully it's doesn't look like it's going to be too bad or stay around too long.

~~til later

It's Friday!!

2010-12-17T10:18:00.000-05:00

I've been sitting here, facebooking, blog hopping, eating my usual fruit salad (I had bacon with it this morning). Everything is quiet. My husband is at work, my son has gone somewhere, it's just me. The quiet is wonderful. I hear the birds outside my door-too cold to open it so I can watch them. I miss that in my morning. I dont' liek having the doors and windows shut up but that is all part of winter.

Thankfully our temps are gone up a bit. Our snow is melted. Roads are clear, except in the really mountain-y areas, higher elevations and probly on the sides of the roads the sun doesnt' shine.

Giggle by David Harden allposters.com

A week from tomorrow is CHRISTmas!! Things sure have a way of sneaking up on my lately. Is that a sign of getting older?

Our daughter and sil won't be able to come in for CHRISTmas but are coming the next weekend. So we are going to do our 'celebrating' then.

I've decided to go back to school, so on Jan. 10th, I will be a student again!! That's a bit scary. I don't have very many good memories from my school days. I just pray I'll be able to keep up with the school work and still work part time. Thankfully my boss is willing to work with me with my hours. I'll be taking Medical Office Administration.

I'm looking forward to having a college education! And hopefully, finding good, steady employment.

Well, I'm off to get ready for work. I work in a tuxedo shop and Fridays are the usual 'pickup' day. Always a busy day.

~~til later

Cold Tuesday morn.

2010-12-14T09:31:00.000-05:00

I hope everyone is staying warm. It is cold here in the mountains!!

I stepped out on the porch and the wind just cuts you to the bone!! The sky is a brilliant blue!!

This thermometer is a bit misleading, not sure it is 20* out there yet. The thermometer in the back is reading 14*

I havent' been out of the house since Saturday and I'm starting to get a bit stir crazy. So I've got to get bundled up and head out to run errands and hopefully work a few hours.

Ya'll stay warm.

til later~~

Hymn Time Christmas - Grandpa Jones "The Christmas Guest"

2010-12-11T11:14:00.001-05:00

Oh! the memories this morning!!

I remember as a younger child, waking up, I would hear mom in the kitchen, listening to WWNC 570. (Scotty Rhodarmer and Nothing Could Be Finer,than to be in Carolina in the morning!!) It was a country station and this was back in the day when they 'bleeped' the bad words from the songs.
It's format as long since changed but I remember the djs, the music--there seemed to always be some kinda music in our home.
I've been thinking of some of the old Christmas songs I heard back then. One of them was Willie Nelson's "Pretty Paper". As I listened to it this morning, I realized exactly what it was talking about-those lonely people that you walk by in the hustle and bustle of this time of yr., those who have no home, no one to wrap presents for. Reminds me to take time to give someone a smile, tell them that they are loved.

And then there was this song. Oh! No one like Grandpa Jones telling a story!! I remember him on HeeHaw, which we watched every week when it came on.
This song always brings a tear to my eyes. Has the same message as "Pretty Paper". Lets' not pass up an opportunity to be a blessing to someone today.

Brrrr!!!!

2010-12-07T08:55:00.000-05:00

It is cold!! 16* here with a wind chill of about 2*!!

We are still getting snow but not much of it has stuck. Some roads have black ice, etc. Mostly it's just cold!!

~~later

Cold Morning!!

2010-12-02T08:59:00.000-05:00

Temps down in the 20's last night. Big frost and some icy patches on the roads. Yep! It's winter!
December already!! Christmas is creeping up on me and I've realized I need to buy Christmas cards.
So, got that on my to do list.

I have the first cold (and praying the last!) of the season. Why does a cold make you feel so bad? I'm glad I bought those extra boxes of tissue a couple weeks ago. Hot tea, neti pot, warm salt water gargle, tylenol/sinus meds are my companions right now. Starbucks has their Tazo Joy tea out now. I love it! I didnt' know Tazo was a division of Starbucks now. Interesting. Nothing like a good cuppa hot tea.

Monday before our daughter and sil left to go back to TN, we went to the Grove Park Inn to see the Gingerbread House Competition. To be honest, I'm a bit dissapointed. This has gotten way beyond 'gingerbread house's'.

I love exploring Grove Park Inn. It is beautifully decorated for the season.

Seems the 'health care reform' will be affecting us next yr. Nothing set in stone yet but if it goes as it stands now with my husband's employer, we won't be able to afford it.

Be anxious for nothing,

but in everything

by prayer and supplication

with thanksgiving

let your requests be made known to God.

Phil 4:6

30 days of thanks--day 30

2010-11-30T08:03:00.000-05:00

Today I'm thankful for the rain we are getting. It is a cold rain, tho. We are a bit dry here so it is much needed. I heard the word 'snow' in the forecast yesterday too. Here in the mountains it depends on where you are as to what you have. A former weather forecaster who was born and raised in these parts use to say 'whatever you got in your back yard is what you got'.

I'm thankful my daughter and sil made it home safe. They did run into some heavy rain tho.

30 days of thanks-day 29

2010-11-29T14:53:00.000-05:00

I'm late getting this posted.
We spent the morning at the Grove Park Inn, looking at their Gingerbread House competition entries and wondering around the Inn.

My dear daughter and sil are on their way back to TN.

I'm thankful for the time we got to spend with them this weekend.
I'm thankful for the services we had at church yesterday. Our pastor spoke about seeking first the kingdom of God and His righteousness and all these things shall be added unto you. It's that simple, if we just seek Him first.

I'll get some pictures up later of the Grove Park.

30 days of thanks--day 28

2010-11-28T08:03:00.000-05:00

Today I'm thankful that I have the freedom to go to the church of my choice. Thankful that I still have the freedom to worship God.

30 days of thanks--day 27

2010-11-27T08:04:00.000-05:00

Cold blustery morning here in western NC. I wonder if anyone around got any snow.

Today I'm thankful for so many little things.

Hot coffee, heat, a house to shelter me, enough money to pay for food and our bills, ability to work, hugs from my family, sunrises and sunsets, internet connection.

30 days of thanks--day 26

2010-11-26T08:01:00.000-05:00

Thanksgiving day has come and gone. One month til CHRISTmas!!!

Today I'm thankful for the time I had yesterday with 3 of my siblings and their families. I always dread getting together with family but it was a good time yesterday. Lots of good food.

And~~I'm thankful that my sweet daughter and her husband will be on their way here for the weekend after they get off work today!! Praying they will have a safe trip here and back. It's a busy weekend to be traveling.

30 days of thanks--day 25

2010-11-25T07:24:00.000-05:00

Happy

Thanksgiving

Psalm 100

¹Make a joyful noise unto the LORD, all ye lands.

²Serve the LORD with gladness: come before his presence with singing.

³Know ye that the LORD he is God: it is he that hath made us, and not we ourselves;

we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture.

⁴Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, and into his courts with praise:

be thankful unto him, and bless his name.

⁵For the LORD is good; his mercy is everlasting;

and his truth endureth to all generations.

30 days of thanks-day 24

2010-11-24T07:52:00.000-05:00

Just one month and one day til Christmas!!

Have I said yet how thankful I am of my husband? He has put up with alot from me for the past 23 yrs. He a good man, hard worker. I take him for granted.

30 days of thanks-day 23

2010-11-23T08:10:00.000-05:00

Today I'm thankful for God's promises. I'm thankful that He is merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and plenteous in mercy.

Psalms 117

O Praise the Lord, all ye nations;

praise Him all ye people.

For His merciful kindness is great toward us;

and the truth of the Lord endureth for ever.

Praise ye the Lord

30 days of thanks--day 22

2010-11-22T07:38:00.000-05:00

Thanksgiving week!

Today I'm thankful for our women's group at church~~the Gleaners. We are small in number but this year we are able to help a family of 7, a backpack program for the local school and a lady whose husband has terminal cancer. I'm thankful for the generousity of these ladies. Each yr this group uses the "tithes" from the money we've raised/taken in thru the yr, to help someone in need. It just feels good!!

This is Thanksgiving week--join us in this challenge. Just click on the button to the right.

A new friend and a giveaway

2010-11-21T14:28:00.000-05:00

Mary Ann at A Joyful Chaos is having a give away! She is giving away an Amish Cooking cookbook! I love, love old cookbooks! They are the best! I love reading them, wandering who the cook was, etc.

So, go on over and meet Mary Ann. I'm looking forward to getting to reading more of her blog.

30 days of thanks-day 21

2010-11-21T07:52:00.000-05:00

I am so thankful for the day I had yesterday. I woke about 6, took my meds, was on the computer while I drank my coffee. I have cut down on my computer time, in other words I deactivated my facebook! After I took a shower I started in picking up in the house, swished/swiped the bathroom, washed 6 loads of laundry, vacuumed the living room, washed dishes, had a cake baked by noon.

What's so great about all this you say? Why is she telling us all about 'normal' daily activities?
Becuase I had energy!! I had the want to !! I felt good!! I wasnt' hurting!! No headache, back ache (outside the norm)!!

Oh! I even got the insides of a couple embroidered pillows sewn, stuffed and the pillows put back together and they are on my bed and it looks good. Makes me smile.

The best part about yesterday is that I, somehow, got my cuckoo clock working!! It has been sitting quiet for a couple yrs now. Why didnt' I get it looked at? I dont' know, just another thing I ignored, even tho it made me sad. But yesterday I took it off the wall, turned it around, tried to get the back off to see inside, said, 'oh, well, guess I'll have to find someone who works on them', hung it back on teh wall, set the time, moved the pendulum and it's still working!! I love, love hearing a clock tick. I guess I get my love of clocks from my mom. And to hear the little cuckoo come out and then to see the little German dancers dancing. Brings joy to my heart. Makes me smile.

Yep! I think I'm feeling better.

And if you've gotten this far, thanks for reading.
I pray that you have a blessed day.

30 days of thanks--day 20

2010-11-20T06:38:00.000-05:00

Today I'm thankful that tomorrow-Sunday-our church will start a new journey with a new pastor.
We went for about 2 months without one. Even tho we are little in number we are a strong, faithful church...but it still has suffered some.
I'm looking forward to what God has in store for us there.

30 days of thanks--day 19

2010-11-19T08:16:00.000-05:00

Today I'm thankful that I'm feeling better---mentally. I had/have been going thru a rough spot-not sure if it was hormones, stress, or what. But thankfully I feel that I'm coming out of it. I seem to have a bit more energy and "want to".
Depression can be such an ugly thing.

30 days of thanks--day 18

2010-11-18T08:16:00.000-05:00

I'm thankful for my little home. It may not be much but it has sheltered us for over 23 yrs now. I've learned to be a wife and mother in this little home. I dont' always appreciate it as I should or how taken care of it as I should but it's home.

I love that song "The House that Built Me".

remember the button to the right!

"Run Them In"

2010-11-18T07:55:00.000-05:00

While I was making my coffee this morning I was thinking of my son. I was thinking how he needs someone to come along side him and encourage him, be a friend. And then I opened my email and found this "Run Them In" Exactly what I was thinking.

How many times do we see someone, Christian or not, stumble, do something we just dont' understand, lagging behind and we say 'umph, why are they doing that?' We looked down our noses or simply just don't want to get involved. Instead of going to them, in love and being a friend to them, encouraging them, guiding them, just being there. They may be so scared, hurting and/or just simply dont' know what do to. Or how to do it.

It's hard to put ourselves out like that. I struggle with that, too.

There are so many out there who need someone to turn around and run along side them, to 'run them in'.

It ain't roller derby, people. It's life. It's not who gets there first, who run the fastest.

And if we live this life without helping someone along the way, then we've lived a life in vain.

30 days of thanks--day 17

2010-11-17T07:01:00.000-05:00

I'm thankful for the opportunity to return to school. At least I'm thinking/praying about it.
I'm going this morning to take the placement test at a local technical school. Say a prayer!!
It is a big step for me. Lots of things to figure out-finances, time managment, etc. More about this later after I talk with the advisor.

click on the button to the right if you'd like to join in-

30 days of thanks--day 16

2010-11-16T19:20:00.000-05:00

My internet/computer was messing up this morning and has a couple more times today. Not sure what the problem is. sigh.

We are getting some much needed rain, suppose to clear up by tomorrow.

What am I thankful for today? Well, I thankful that I dont' have to work holiday hours this yr!! I work in a tuxedo shop so this is our slow time, now til probly March when prom season starts. We are located in a mall but my manager is exempt from working mall hours. I had thought of taking another pt time while working where I am but...my dear hubby says, don't worry about it!!

I'm sure we can make it ok. I'll be saving alot on gas and food (and Starbux) I get while at work. And...I won't have to work Thanksgiving weekend when my sweet daughter and her hubby come in...and when the mall is being invaded by people on a mission to find that perfect gift. Maybe I'll even get to be one of them, shopping with my daughter!

One more thing I'm thankful for---hot peppermint tea w/honey!! Feels good on this chilly evening.

~~til later

30 days of thanks--day 15

2010-11-15T09:06:00.000-05:00

Today I'm thankful for the weekend we had. My hubby came home on Saturday from a week long hunting trip. It's good to have him back home.
Saturday morn, I headed out to the grocery store and found a yard sale on my way. Found this cabinet for my daughter. They were asking $35 but it has a crack on the inside of the top cabinet, so they went down to $25 on it!! I wish I had room for it in my kitchen but I dont'. She doesnt' have much cabinet space and will have less becuase they are putting in a dish washer. So this will help her out.
I'm thankful for the deals I found at the grocery store and CVS. I trying to learn how to play that game of the CVS extra bucks. I was able to save quite abit on some things.
I'm thankful for the service we had at church yesterday. Thankful for the 2 preachers who have been filling in for us while we were without a pastor. We had a meal for them yesterday. Next Sunday our new pastor and his family will be with us. I'm looking forward to what God has in store for our little church.

Woke this morning with lots of negative thoughts about myself and my life. I'm thankful that God is still with me and I can go to His Word and get refreshed.
I read Ps. 3 this morning and it was exactly what I needed. The "they" in this scripture for me is all the negative thoughts that were rising against' me this morning.

Psalm 3

¹Lord, how are they increased that trouble me! many are they that rise up against me.

²Many there be which say of my soul, There is no help for him in God. Selah.

³But thou, O LORD, art a shield for me; my glory, and the lifter up of mine head.

30 days of thanks--day 14

2010-11-14T08:50:00.000-05:00

Speaking to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord;

Giving thanks always for all things unto God and the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ;

Ephesians 5:19,20

30 days of thanks--day 13

2010-11-13T08:11:00.000-05:00

Good Morning!

Today I'm thankful that my hubby is coming home today!! He and some other fellas have been on a week long hunting trip. I've missed him!! He got a spike earlier in the week. Cant' wait to get me a good hug!! I'm thankful for his hugs!

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30 days of thanks--day 12

2010-11-12T08:27:00.001-05:00

Day 12! November is quickly slipping away.

Today I'm thankful for my mom. She was an awesome cook, talented, creative seamstress. She is a caring person, taught me right from wrong.

Talked with her this morning and she is not feeling too good. She is now 77 yrs young. And along with that has lots of aches and pains, some depression as well. She is a very independent person and it is hard to just let someone else do for you.

Love you mom!!!

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30 days of thanks--day 11 Veterans Day

2010-11-11T08:33:00.000-05:00

I'm thankful for all those who have served our country.

If you'd like to participate just click on the button to the right.

30 days of thanks--day10

2010-11-10T08:27:00.001-05:00

Due to too much caffeine yesterday, I didnt' sleep well. I woke about 3 am, wide awake. So, I decided to read. I got my bible and opened it to Ephesians 2. The verse that I had a 'ah ha' moment on was v.14

"For He is our peace, who hath made both one, and hath broken down the middle wall of partition between us"

He is our PEACE!! Today I'm thankful for that PEACE that passeth all understanding.
And I'm thankful that as a Gentile, I've been grafted into the family of God thru His Son, Jesus Christ. That's what this whole chapter is about.

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30 days of thanks--day 9

2010-11-09T08:32:00.001-05:00

Today I'm thankful for my son, David. He's my bud! He has a love of life and adventure, loves to laugh and aggravate his momma. Hard to believe he'll be 20 in January!! Whew! He's head and shoulders taller than I am now, gives big bear hugs.

Where did that little boy go? That little boy who stuck his hand to the stove eye to prove it wouldn't burn him (thankfully it was not on, I had warned him that the oven was on and it was hot).
That little boy who came down the drive way with a black snake laying across his shoulders, the head in one hand and the tail hanging off the other. His dad bout had a fit.

So many stories I could tell.

He keeps me praying too. I know he'll find his way and where he's suppose to be.

Remember to click on the button to the right if you'd like to participate in this 30 days of thanks.

30 days of thanks-day 8

2010-11-08T08:37:00.000-05:00

I have so many things going thru my head this morning!! I woke up this morning, praying, thinking "OK what am I thankful for today?" I want it to be something spectacular, something really deep-you know, spiritual. But honestly what keeps coming to my mind is that I'm sooo thankful for a good full nights sleep! If you have fibro or back problems you can appreciate this. I woke feeling so rested and have more energy.

It's amazing what a good nights sleep can do for one's body...and soul.

Ya'll have a blessed day!!

30 days of thanks--day 7

2010-11-07T08:14:00.001-05:00

I was glad when they said unto me, Let us go into the house of the LORD. Psalms 122:1

old church in Cataloochie Valley in the mountains of western NC

thankful that we still have the freedom to attend the church of our choice.

30 days of thanks--day 6

2010-11-06T08:45:00.000-04:00

today I'm thankful for fuzzy socks and flannel jammies!!

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30 days of thanks--day 5

2010-11-05T09:16:00.000-04:00

I'm thankful for God's reminders this morning that His Grace and Mercy are still with me. He will never leave me nor forsake me. Even during my times of stubborness, when I just wanna stomp my foot at Him, when I just wanna give up and forget all about it, God is still there!!! Days when I feel unworthy, lonely, basically-feeling sorry for myself. God is still there!!!

The number 5 represensts GRACE.

It's by Grace thru faith that we are saved. His Grace is sufficient.

Hebrews 4:15-16
¹⁵For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin.

¹⁶Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.

30 days of thanks--day 4

2010-11-04T08:15:00.000-04:00

Good Morning!

Psalms 147:7-8 Sing unto the LORD with thanksgiving; sing praise upon the harp unto our God: Who covereth the heaven with clouds, who prepareth rain for the earth, who maketh grass to grow upon the mountains.

I'm thankful for the rain we are getting. Things are a bit dry here in the mountains. This time of year with all the leaves on the ground, there is always a chance of a wild fire. The mountains make it hard for the fire fighters to fight them at times. Last yr my son and I sat and watched them use a huge helicopter with a bucket to get water from a lake to fight a fire that was hard to get to.

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30 days of Thanks--day 3

2010-11-03T08:32:00.000-04:00

You know this really shouldn't be this hard!! But I've had such stinking thinking lately, I'm having trouble with this!! Isnt' that sad?!?!?! We are to give thanks in all things.

"It is good to give thanks to the Lord to sing praises to Your name, O Most High." Ps. 92:1

My daughter gave me such good advice the other day. She said, "you need to quit being a negative Nellie and start being a positive Patty!" Ouch! How did she get so smart?
So today I'm thankful for my dear daughter, Jessica. She has grown/is growing into such a beautiful, wise woman. She brings me joy, fusses at me when I need it, encourages me to be more than I think I can be, has such a love for God, life, her husband, family and friends. And I miss her terribly!! She and her husband have made their home in TN, 5+ hours away.

I'm thankful that God answered my prayers and placed 'mommas' around her cause I couldn't be there as often as I want. Thank God for cell phones, fb and texting!!

What are you thankful for today? If you'd like to join in on the 30 days of thanks, just click on the button to the right.

~~til later

30 days of thanks-day 2

2010-11-02T08:37:00.001-04:00

Thankful for meds to take when our bodies need them and for good hot, slightly strong, coffee! and half n half!!

Go Vote!!!

if you'd like to join in on the 30 days of thanks, just click on the button to the right!!

30 days of Thanks(giving)-Day 1

2010-11-01T11:30:00.001-04:00

Jen at http://thoughtsofaworkingmom.com/ is hosting a '30 days of thanks carnival'. So, I thought I'd join. It's been quite awhile since I've posted. I thought this would be a good way to get started back. Too often I look at the 'bad' things in my life instead of the blessings God has given me.
If you'd like to join in on this carnival just visit Jen at the link above.

Day 1~~During the last fews months several things have happened here in the Hall household. Even tho one of them is serious and we still don't know the outcome, I'm thankful that a prayer was answered thru it, a prayer that I've prayed many times. I know that God will keep working in this, He won't leave us to deal with it alone. I'm thankful for His mercy and grace in these situations. Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform [it] until the day of Jesus Christ: Phil 1:6.

Seasons of my life

2010-07-26T21:14:00.000-04:00

Here in the mountains of NC we have 4 seasons. I'm thinking for me personally, I have lots more than that! Seems like I get thru one and when I think it's going to be ok, I start thru another. I know that's life tho. To everything there is a season
Some seasons are so hard to bear. Like the extreme cold of winter and the extreme heat of summer. I much prefer Spring, when the temps are more to my liking, everything is starting to put out and bloom, a renewal of life and Fall, when the temps cool down, there seems to be a calm about things. But we wouldn't have those two without the others.
I received this in my email box the other day and it was just what I needed so I thought I'd share it with you.
Seasons
So, enough of that.

My husband has been getting some squash from his vines. I fried some to go with our dinner yesterday. Yummy. I don't fry a layer at a time, I just throw it all in the iron pan and fry it up with some corn meal!! I saw the green tomatoes on my husbands vines and that got me to thinking about some fried okra. mmmm. Gotta get some this week.

We've enjoyed our porch this year. Always a nice breeze going. We sat there this afternoon, chatting, watching the hummingbirds fight. There is one male in particular that will sit down below the yard in a tree, watching and if another gets near the feeder-which is hanging on our porch-he is up there is a flash, letting them know he is king of that feeder! It would be fun to have a slow motion camera so I could see what he actually does when he does this. They are fast!

The katydids have been singing their song. I love hearing them.

All in all it's been a good day. I'm thankful for that.

~~til later

Tuesday!

2010-07-06T09:11:00.000-04:00

Finally getting around to a post! I tried to post the other night and I just could not get my words straight in my brain.

Lots have been going on in "there". I remember seing a Ziggy cartoon that said something to the affect that he has finally gotten it all together....now if he could remember where he put it. That is me alot of times.

A few things that I've been pondering is the state of my home. Thru years of depression, working, just not being organized, my home has suffered. I'm trying to work on that. As with anything, it didnt' get this way overnight and it won't be fixed overnight.

Baby steps. Taking 15 min or even less, and doing one thing. It really is amazing how quickly you can get something done, if you just get started and stick with it.

Joel 2:25

"And I will restore to you the years that the locust hath eaten, the cankerworm, and the caterpiller, and the palmerworm, my great army which I sent among you."
I've read this scripture before but God really brought it to light last week. I've lost so many yrs because of depression, etc., I've given those yrs back to God, and I'm looking forward to seeing what He makes of them. I can't restore them, I cant' go back and redo what's been done or do what should have been done.
"Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ" "All things work together for good to them that love the Lord, that are called according to His purpose".

The pictures I have here of my goodies I found at yard sales on Saturday. Dh and I took off early, had a wonderful day together. I got all this, including the glass jar and didn't spend over $10!! The pink gingham is about 10 yds and I paid 50 cents for it. Plan to use it to back baby quilts. The embroidered piece~~I bought two others similar to it from the same lady a few yrs ago. My plan is to use them on a pillow but I may take her suggestion and frame them. She said her mother had made them. They would look really pretty in my bathroom.

I love doilies. I have several, some I've crocheted, some from my mom and an aunt. This one is so cute, only about 5 in in diameter.

Off to work

~~til later

Summer time enjoyment

2010-06-26T16:15:00.000-04:00

This summer is proving to be just as hot as the winter was cold. But I remember saying in those winter months that when it was 90* outside I would not complain, so... I won't complain. But I will say I'm enjoying my air conditioner more this yr. than I ever have.

Another thing I'm enjoying is my ice maker/water dispensor on our new refrigerator. I'm drinking lots more water, I keep a cup w/lid and straw with me most of the time. I like to put either a slice of lemon in it or some tea bags, mostly green tea.

My husband is enjoying the fishing, as you can see. This is at our local lake. It's a nice, relaxing area, with a picnic shed, play area for the kids, and a .5 mi. walking trail around. Lots of ducks and geese. I enjoy going there late evenings to walk.

I enjoyed a nice chat over the phone with my daughter this evening. Seems like they don't happen often enough.

Off to enjoy the rest of the evening.

What are ya'll enjoying most this summer?

thoughtful thursday

2010-06-10T08:08:00.000-04:00

My thoughts have been so jumbled lately, I havent' been able to get them down. And honestly you probly should be thankful.

My main thought for today is~~"When you accept and forgive, it releases you from a dependency on ______ (whoever you need to forgive) to make you happy and content. You are free to love _____ without demading that ______ be a certain way in order for you to be fulfilled. "And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you." Ephesians 4:32" "--God Will Make a Way by Dr. Henry Cloud and Dr. John Townsend.

Unforgiveness is a bondage. Forgiveness means freedom. I want to be free, don't you?

Homekeeper's Journal

2010-05-22T08:34:00.000-04:00

Sylvia at Christian Homekeeper says "The Homekeeper’s Journal is a way for you to write down your thoughts about life. Writing is a great way to come to an understanding about yourself and your world. Keeping a journal can be difficult to do when you are a busy mom and wife, but this journal will give you a way to keep track of your thoughts and will give you some writing prompts so that you will have inspiration for writing.:

I'm not a 'homekeeper' as most think of one because I work outside my home, but my heart is there. It's hard for me to get my thoughts down on paper, hard to desribe what I'm feeling, thinking, wanting, etc.

Here’s What’s Happening ………….

In My Kitchen ……we purchased a new refrigerator this week!! I love it! It's a side by side, which means crushed ice and filtered water. Squee!! Dh had to do a bit of remodeling of the cabinets in order for it to fit. Now I dont' have water in the floor or water that has dripped all over the food inside.

On My Mind ….. Whew! Too much to mention here. Struggles within myself, struggles at church, struggles here in my home.

One Big Goal For This Week …. I'm not good at making goals. Don't have enough confidence in myself to think I will reach them. So, maybe that will be a goal~~to set a goal and determine within myself to do it! I have some 'homework' to do, some serious stuff that requires alot of thinking, praying and digging deep into myself. I will set that as my goal~~to take 20 min. a day and work on this.

Something I Would Like To Do …. I have something I've been wanting to do for awhile now, a ministry of sorts. I need to take some steps to get this going. It's something I enjoy doing and doing it for someone in need will make it that much more enjoyable.

It Means A Lot To Me …… when the friendship I try to show others is genuinely returned to me. Sometimes I feel that I'm "casting my pearls before the swine" so to speak. I've tried my best to be a friend, to be friendly to someone. Do I continue or do I wipe my feet clean of them? I long for a genuine friendship.

I am looking forward to …… picnics, cookouts, camping, wading thru the shallow (very shallow ;) ) edge of the river. Looking forward to what God has in store for me, my family, my dear husband and I as we start thru these 'empy nest' years.

On the Back Burner of my mind …… getting our finances under control, health issues that need to be addressed but right now will have to wait.

Lazy Sunday evening

2010-05-16T20:58:00.000-04:00

It's been rainy most of the weekend. Came a hard storm Friday night, the most amazing lightening I've seen in a while. And it hailed.

I've gotten some work done in my flowers beds. Felt so good to get my hands in the dirt! My mom gave me a couple crinum lily bulbs from hers. Not sure what color it is. Hopefully it'll do good. I planted them in different places, will see which one does the best. My Poppy has 4 buds on it! I'm really excited about my oriental lily. It has the one main stalk on it and about 5 little ones that have came out from it.

This is a five line skink that lives in under these landscaping timbers at our porch steps. From this article this must be a juvenile but I've never seen an adult. We've had these for several yrs now.

We are having to shop for a refrigerator. Ours is ready to be put down. We have found one but it sticks out about 6 inches from the edge of the counter and wall it goes in between. Not sure that I like that. Will have to think on that.

~~til later.

Happy (belated) Mother's Day!

2010-05-10T21:40:00.000-04:00

Is this not a sweet picture? This is our new neighbor, a couple weeks old. Soo Cute!!!

late Friday

2010-05-07T22:32:00.000-04:00

It has been a long day.

I worked 8 hours, got off at 9. I hadnt' eaten much, not much here at home to eat. Stopped at the store, got somethign for my lunch tomorrow. The only things I could think of that I wanted tonight was cereal or Taco Bell. Taco Bell won out. Think the cereal would have agreed with me better. But I love the chicken gorditas! The supreme. So good!

Learned today we are getting a Whole Foods store here in our town! I've never shopped at one, seen then on the internet, used to get their newsletter, cuase I liked some of the recipes. It'll be interesting to see what they carry, to browse thru the aisles.
Are you familar with them?

I decided that the few hours I worked at the bookstore, just wastn' working. So, I'm not longer there. Whew!! This next week I'll only work 5 days!! I do like my job at the tuxedo store.
Think I'm finally settlying into the routine.

~nite

Hello to all!!!

2010-05-06T09:29:00.000-04:00

It looks to be another glorious day!!! It's a bit breezy this morning. I love seeing the sun shining thru the trees, the leaves waving their praises. Kinda like what we're suppose to do. The Son shines thru us and people should see us waving our praises back to Him.

These past few weeks have been more like a whirlwind. I've worked 6 days out of the past 4 weeks, 7 days the other week. To be honest, I'm pooped!! We are in the midst of prom season at the tuxedo shop. Last week, we had 6 proms plus some weddings!! I lengthened/shortened alot of sleeves and pant legs and replaced a lot of buttons. I enjoy it tho. We have another month or so of this and then it will slow down some.

The hours I'm working is still making it hard to find a balance. If I could get up and start in to doing something I might could get somethign accomplished. But when I do get up, my body is aching and I feel like I've been in a wrestling match with...something. and I just can not get going!
Sigh
Any suggestions?

I've been keeping my dishes and laundry caught up at least. And I dont' have a dish washer, so it's not the simple act of putting them in there and turnign it on. I dont' mind washing dishes, tho. It's relaxing to have my hands in hot soapy water, reflecting on whatever comes to mind. And honestly it takes about 5-10 min to get them done, takes longer to get yourself in the mood to do them.

I've been reading about the benefits of cod liver oil. I've been taking 50,000 units of vit D once a week, cause it is low. I've got a few more weeks to go with that. I'm wondering if I should just switch to the CLO, since there are so many other benefits to it. One of them being that it helps with imflammation in the bones, muscles. I've read that people who take NSAIDS have dropped their dosages when taking the CLO.

The bear is back. He left his big paw print in a flower bed. I honestly think he had been on the porch, I heard a loud noise, thought it was my husband but he was down in the yard. And the rocking chair was slowing rocking. hmm.

So, I'm off, gotta get some stuff done before I head out to work.

~~til later

2010-04-12T08:53:00.000-04:00

Looks like it's going to be another glorious day. Cooler than last week, more like the 'normal' spring temps we usually have. Spring really showed winter who was boss, with close to 90* temps last week!! But winter came back with a little punch at the end of the week, temps went back down into the 50's w/some freeze advisories in the mountains. But I think Spring is about to overcome.

So much has been going on here over the last week. As I said in my previous post, some changes have happened that have shook this mommas heart to the core. It's hard to see people make choices that can have an impact on them for the rest of their lives. Thanking God, that He was watching over them, praying He'll continue to keep them in that hedge of safety.

Along with the high temps were were many wildfires last week. This one is on Old Fort mountain near where I live. My son and I went up there and watched for a bit, watched the helicoptors getting water from a lake at a boys camp near there.

I started a new job last week, along with the other job at the bookstore. I only work a few hours on Monday there right now, ordering, putting up cards, taking care of all that. I enjoy it.

My other job is in a tuxedo shop. I'm hemming pants, taking/letting out sleeves, fixin buttons. All that fun stuff. It's getting to be their "Christmas" right now with all the proms that will be happening. I'm goina be busy, busy!! I just hope I can find that balance between work and home.

I've been hearing about vit D deficeincy and seems now it has affected me. Had some blood work done and it is low. So, I'll be taking what seems to be a huge amount, once weekly for 8 weeks then a smaller amt for a month, then have it rechecked. It's amazing what this difiency can cause and I've been dealing with all of it this winter.

Turkey season is open, dh is in the woods this morning. He does enjoy it!!

~~til later

2010-04-07T08:11:00.000-04:00

Some changes really shake you to the core.

Titus 2:12-13

12-Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world;

13-Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ; .

2010-04-04T07:35:00.000-04:00

I love a rainy night..

2010-03-25T20:08:00.000-04:00

such a beautiful sight. I do love it when it first starts raining.
The weather this week has been really nice. Except for Monday. One of those weird
"transitioning from winter to spring" days where we got a little of everything-snow sleet and rain.

Ever hear the definition of insanity? Doing the same thing over and over expecting different results. Well, I've been thinking about that this week. It's just like the weather, when changes happen there is a transitioning period, sometimes it can be pretty harsh but eventually the change will come about, with perseverence and commitment. Spring doesnt' give up because Winter is not wanting to let go. Spring doens't say, "I just cant' do it, it's too hard". It perseveres. There might be some days that Winter seems to be taking control again but Spring keeps on and eventually Winter has gone away.

I'm thinking of some changes that need to be made. Just trying to get up enough strength to try to make them, remembering that what I've been doing isnt' working.

~~til later

First day of Spring

2010-03-20T19:52:00.001-04:00

and it has been a wonderful, gorgeous day!

Someone asked if I had found out the name of that little flower we saw at Biltmore Estate-the picture is in a previous post. Well, I have not. I have a "Wild Flowers of North Carolina" book and it is not in there. I've looked online as well. I'm thinking of emailing Biltmore Estates and asking if they can tell me.

Edit~~I did more searching and I found it!! They are Snowdrops. Here is a link http://www.theplantexpert.com/springbulbs/Snowdrop.html

And I also found a neat little story by Hans Christian Andersen.

Well, that's all really. Ya'll take care.

2010-03-19T08:43:00.000-04:00

I spent some time last night going back to the beginning of this blog and reading some of my post. It's fun looking back and seeing where I was and where I am now. I've been blogging for almost 2 yrs here!

It's suppose to be a nice day here! With sunshine! And warm temperatures! I'm so glad!

These pictures are the finished baby quilt. I like how it turned out. I decided to use embroidery floss to tie it with but think next one I'll use yarn.
The machine I bought at Goodwill works, got a cord/foot pedal for it. It is making a noise in the bobbin case area. May have to have it looked at.

This is the material I have for the next one. I want to get a solid and do a simple pattern. I bought all that was left on the bolt of the polka dot, so I'll use it as the backing as well as in the pattern.

Isn't it cute!!

I'm hoping to have several made up before Mother's Day.

Well, I'm off. Gotta hit the grocery store. Joy!! I'm trying to eat more whole foods, I have my menu/list made out.

~~til later

Wednesday wanderings

2010-03-10T07:54:00.008-05:00

The past few days have been glorious!! Signs that Spring is on it's way are everywhere. Sunday my husband and I went to Biltmore Estate, walked around the bass pond. Saw this beautiful pair of ducks. I know soon there will be some little ones following along behind momma.

Not sure yet what this cute little flower is. I'll need to look it up when I have more time. Be sure to click on it so you can see the honey bee.

And we also found a sweet gum tree. Arent' these the cutest? These are sweet gum balls.

This is the neatest thing. It is a sundial. My husband's shadow is between the 4 and 5. I looked at my watch and it was 4:15.

~~~edited to add this http://www.iodesign.net/tag/biltmore-estate/ . This website tells about the sundial and how it was built.

I saw 2 eastern bluebirds, flying and twittering as they went. I love how they look when the sun is shining on them . I love all birds but those bluebirds just take my breath.

Yesterday, our yard was invaded by robins. They were busy finding yummy stuff to eat in the grass and they took time to take a nice refreshing bath in our creek.

I love getting letters in the mail! It is a rare thing anymore. Most people correspond by emai, facebook, twitter, texting, etc.

It was nice to hear from an old friend.

Today I'll be going to a local Christian bookstore and filling out the necessary paperwork for my employment!!! I'm so excited. This truly is a blessing-Gods' timing was just right in this. Isnt' it always? It's only very part time right now, while one is waiting to be moved into a new position. I'll be training during this time and move into that when it comes available.

Blue Skies

2010-03-05T11:39:00.002-05:00

and Jim Reeves. Good combination.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xkjXieeVSJk

Can you hear the scratch of the needle?

2010-03-02T13:25:00.003-05:00

I wanted to title this post "will it ever end?" but I'm trying to be more positive about things.

we are under a 'winter storm warning' again. There's probly about 4 in here so far, more to come. But~~~~it's suppose to be in the 50's by the weekend!!! I've been seeing alot of robins this week, my daffodils are coming up, so there are signs of hope!!
So, I'll try to be patient.

pleeeezzzeee???

In the meanwhile, I'm working on a baby quilt.

I'm trying anyway.

My sewing machine is really being a pain. It is old! I've had it for almost 30 yrs. I boughtit used then. Something is not right with the pressure on the pressure foot. I can't sew thrumore than 3 layers without it pushing the top fabric and making it come out wrong. It is not working for this ruffle, it's just too thick for it to sew properly. I've tried to adjust the pressure but it just won't do. so, I'm basting it on by hand, which is taking so much longer but maybe it will work. Then I'll sandwich this layer w/the backing and the filling. sew around it (if my machine will), leave a space and turn it.

The blanket I started knitting was 'un'knitted. Just cant' seem to keep my focus on the yo's, k2tog's etc. Maybe another day.

~~~til later

sleepy Saturday

2010-02-27T14:25:00.003-05:00

After eating breakfast this morning, my husband and I went 'thrifting'. I was a nice time spent together. You have to understand, my husband is not a thrift store person. If the store doesn's sell tools, stuff for cars or anything to do with hunting, he'd just rather not go there. So, it was nice for him to even suggest us doing this. I didnt' find a thing I desperatly needed or wanted. He did. He found a tool store near a Goodwill. And he found a set of jacks for the vehicles-these are the kind you set under the vehicle and it has a lever and you 'jack' it up.
So, he was rewarded for his thoughtfulness toward me.

Now we are home, after a good lunch. I'm enjoying a cuppa hot coffee and a piece (or two ;) ) of the best coconut cake. Here is a link to the recipe.
http://christianhomekeeper.org/blog/super-easy-killer-good-coconut-cake/

Of course you can make the cake from scratch. I added some orange juice to the cake and the frosting. I remember my mom making orange coconut cakes when I was growing up. I love them. This cake is so moist from the cream of coconut.

It is still cold and windy here. I noticed my daffodils were about 2 inches out of the ground! And saw the first goldfinch on the bird feeder yesterday.

Thank you for the 'happy anniversary' wishes. And for even reading and posting on here.

~~til later

Homekeepers Journal

2010-02-23T09:47:00.004-05:00

Here's what's happening~~~

In my kitchen....homemade whole wheat blueberry buttermilk waffles, sausage. Yum!! and I wonder why my clothes are getting tight.

With the children....I am so blessed to have my daughter and son. Each with their own unique personality, there own likes and dislikes. But I love them both equally. Differently? Yes, because they each require a different kind of love but if you could measure my love for them it would be the same.

What I'm reading....I have several books going right now. One is "Housekeeping" by Marilynne Robinson. Some good reviews here on this link.

Another I just started reading is "Book Of Hours" by Davis Bunn.

Dh and I are starting "The 5 Love Languages"

What I have been learning...learning how to love and be loved, how to accept things for what they are, learning that things and people aren't always as I think they are, learning to listen, not just with my ear but with my heart as well.

What I’ve Been Noticing ….that people are afraid to ask someone how they are doing-face to face. They will ask someone who is relating or who is an acquaintance. Afraid to get involved.

On the back burner of my mind...that I really need to get serious about my health. Yes, I need to move this to the front burner.

In the deepest dark recesses...things that are better left unsaid. But at the same time, praying God will bring these things to light and let His truth be known in them. God knows they are there anyway.

Scripture/thought of the day...Acts 17:28--For in Him we live, and move, and have our being;

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A Light in the window

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First Saturday of 2012

Day 3 of 2012

1/1/12

Tradtional Foods

change of plans

The season has begun

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waiting

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Quilt clubs, knit clubs, mysteries

Guess it's time for a post.

What is today?

Traditional foods

Sunday morn

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hot summer days..

Long time, no blog

Win a Signed Copy of Reshaping It All!

It's Tuesday

what's been going on at my house lately

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Spring!!

Hello!

Is it Friday already?

It's Friday!!

Thursday Thinking

I'll make this short and oh!! so sweet!!!

Thankful Thursday

quick check in

I have to admit~~

Wandering Wednesday

Spicy Walnut-Raisin Pie

Merry day after Christmas!!

Monday morning skies

It's Friday!!

Giggle by David Harden allposters.com

Cold Tuesday morn.

Hymn Time Christmas - Grandpa Jones "The Christmas Guest"

Brrrr!!!!

Cold Morning!!

30 days of thanks--day 30

30 days of thanks-day 29

30 days of thanks--day 28

30 days of thanks--day 27

30 days of thanks--day 26

30 days of thanks--day 25

Psalm 100

30 days of thanks-day 24

30 days of thanks-day 23

30 days of thanks--day 22

A new friend and a giveaway

30 days of thanks-day 21

30 days of thanks--day 20

30 days of thanks--day 19

30 days of thanks--day 18

"Run Them In"

30 days of thanks--day 17

30 days of thanks--day 16

30 days of thanks--day 15

Psalm 3

30 days of thanks--day 14

30 days of thanks--day 13

30 days of thanks--day 12

30 days of thanks--day 11 Veterans Day

30 days of thanks--day10

30 days of thanks--day 9

30 days of thanks-day 8

30 days of thanks--day 7

30 days of thanks--day 6

30 days of thanks--day 5

Hebrews 4:15-16 15For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin.

30 days of thanks--day 4

30 days of Thanks--day 3

30 days of thanks-day 2

30 days of Thanks(giving)-Day 1

Seasons of my life

Tuesday!

Hebrews 4:15-16
¹⁵For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin.