Here's our pictures from NYC!

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I'm Home, Physically...

But "I left my heart in New York City"...oops, wrong tune, isn't it????

Seriously, DH and I had an AMAZING time in the Big Apple. I'm going to recount some of it here and I'll add pics once I get them uploaded.

First of all, I am a total baby when I fly. I'm OK when I get up there; it's the take-offs and landings that make me a wreck. The thought of flying with my dh while the kids are on the ground, makes me even more of a wreck....I know, I know, it's a bit of a "sickness" called "CONTROL"! I told DH that I would fly to help me get over my issues....and I'm SO GLAD that he followed through on it. Having him next to me was much better than flying alone...which is what I usually do.

It took us TWO hours to make the 30 minute trip into the city from the Newark Airport on Wednesday afternoon. I had to face another one of my issues as we inched our way through the Lincoln Tunnel on a bus with other buses, taxis, cars, and tunnel walls only inches on either side of us. Again, not so bad with DH by my side.

DH told me that most of the shows had been sold out and some right up through March. He asked if I wanted to know "Plan B"...and he brought out the tickets for three shows. I LOVE the theater...and was totally excited about this part of our trip.

Wednesday night, we ate a magnificent meal and then we saw,
Monty Python's Spamalot a 2005 Tony Award Winner. Now, I am not a Monty Python fan, but this show WAS funny!! I enjoyed it. We walked to our little "home" on 42nd Ave. and 2nd St. It was quite a ways...but what a view as we passed through Times Square, Grant Park, and Grand Central Station.

Thursday, we went down to Battery Park to see the Statue of Liberty. The line to get tickets for the ferry stretched forever. So, we skipped waiting all day in the line, looked at the Statue from the shore and walked down Broadway. We saw Ground Zero and went into a deli across from the former South Tower. AMAZING! We also enjoyed walking through a mini-museum that has been created at the site. It was sobering to see artifacts from that horrible day. People were so quiet. Some cried. No one was loud. And no one moved fast. It was just a stillness in that place.

We saw Canal street....it was PACKED with people. We enjoyed visiting a local pub to rest our feet and people watch. We got back just in time to prepare for another MAGNIFICENT meal and head to The Producers starring Tony Danza. It was even funnier than Spamalot (in my opinion). I hadn't seen the movie and only sort of knew the music. It was GREAT fun!

Yesterday, we bought a bus tour for my sore tired feet. I wore new shoes the first night and I totally DO NOT understand how people walk around in their Prada shoes on the streets of New York. (And, Heather, I totally know how your Mother broke her leg there!!) So, to give my blisters a break, we took the tour. Anyway, we saw all of Uptown and Harlem, Downtown Manhattan, and Brooklyn on this. It was quite informative and a great way to cram a lot of "sites" into a short amount of time.

Last night, we ate at a great restaurant (dh did a GREAT job planning dinners)! It was another quaint restaurant with fantastic food. Then, it was on to the most coveted tickets we had....for WICKED!!!!!!!!!!!!! I have the CD for this show and LOVE the music.

It was stunning! I was riveted throughout. The scenery, the vocals, the theater....it was all....well....PERFECT!!! In fact, I want to go grab tickets to see it in February here (C, C, and Mom, let's stop talking about it and DO IT!). There simply was no way to stay in your seat after it was over....it screamed ovation. WOW!!

As with most "dreams" it all ended too soon...but probably right on time. I have a little head cold and definitely noticed the place getting more and more crowded in preparation for the Times Square festivities tomorrow. There is NO WAY I would be caught dead in that crowd. Walking through crowded Times Square two nights ago and imagining that number magnified by thousands, again confirmed that to me.

If I didn't say it before, I'll say it here...DH and I never really had a Honeymoon. We have not really gone on a true vacation together alone in 20 years. After these glorious three days, I know that we will not wait another 20 years to do it again.

I love you, hon!! And, to quote another song,

"Thanks for the Memory!!"

Start Spreadin' the News....

I'm going to be a part of it..............

New York, New York!!

DH whisked me away to New York City. We will see three Broadway Shows in three nights. Our days are pretty open so we can explore this city. Last night, we saw Monty Python's Spamalot. Tonight we will see The Producers....And tomorrow night???

WICKED!!!

I am so excited to see all these shows. I have no idea HOW DH got tickets to all these sold-out shows...but I'm glad he did!

I've gotta' go....I'll blog more later...and maybe post some pics when I can.

Where AM I Going????

DH is taking me away for a few days. The kids are all nestled in with the Grandparents...OK maybe not nestled...but it seems like the right word for this time of year. And actually, only DS 4 is "nestled in" anyway. DSs 1 - 3 are scattered from pillar to post with their friends...and will be using Grandma and Grandpa as "home base".

Now, the BIG question is: WHERE AM I GOING?

I have no idea. We leave in less than 10 hours and I STILL do NOT know where we are going. DH took me shopping today. I have almost a completely new wardrobe. I must admit, I was SHOCKED when DH didn't pack ONE pair of blue jeans in his suitcase. Nope. Only suit coats and pants, nice pants and sweaters, and his new overcoat. He's wearing ONE pair of black jeans tomorrow to travel in...other than that, it's pretty much Docker type during the other days.

I must say I am a bit perplexed! I am starting to think there may have been an alien abduction. But, who am I to judge?

I'll blog tomorrow and let you know where we end up...although I am thinking that information will only be the tip of an iceberg.

We are wearing "classy casual" during the day and "dressy" at night. I have three nice "dressy" outfits and jewelry to match. I have been told the "high" is 50 and the "low" is 30...so I got a new coat, too.

So.....where do YOU think I'm going???? Hmmmm??????

The good news is...we'll have a laptop with us so hopefully I'll be able to blog and let you know the answer soon.

Merry Christmas

Merry Merry Christmas!! To friends online and friends and family near and far, I pray that your Christmas is filled with special times with your loved ones. God bless all of you! Susan

Zoo Fun....

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Thursday Thirteen #37

Thanks to Amy for the TT header!

Thirteen Things SUSAN Still Has to Do BEFORE Christmas....

1. Finish those pesky Christmas cards!! If your last name starts with V-Z (and you're on my list) I haven't mailed yours yet.

2. Finish shopping.

3. Take the kids to Busch Gardens--thanks, Mom for the free tickets.

4. CLEAN my house!! I took a whole van full of STUFF to Goodwill yesterday. DS 4's room is the only one that is ready right now.

5. PLAN the menu for Christmas dinner....does everyone always have turkey? We're trying to be different this year....it's hard to break away from tradition.

6. WRAP presents...I don't know how we lived without gift bags.

7. Before I wrap, I need to take an inventory of what I got everyone so that I can be sure I haven't missed or skimped on anyone.

8. Bake cookies.

9. Take my mentee out to the movies. I promised her I'd get her over the holiday...she missed going to ICE with us due to the adults in her life. I'm getting her tomorrow to "hang out".

10. Get my hair and nails done----just a moment of indulgence for me.

11. PACK for a trip going to somewhere I don't know....DH is taking me away after the holiday. He only told me he'd tell me WHAT to pack.

12. WATCH my FAVORITE Christmas movie, "It's a Wonderful Life"....probably alone since no one in my family thinks that ANY movie should be black and white.

13. Attend all the Church services on Christmas Eve. DS 2 will be playing in several that day. I believe DS 1 will be doing the 11:00pm service.

Happy Holidays Everyone!!

Wordless Wednesday

It's the MOST wonderful time of the year...

Where in the World has Susan Been?

The past few weeks have gone by in a blur. The flurry of activity around my house has been absolutely unbelievable. Our pace seems more quickened than ever. The kids are all busy...but they are ALL going in four different directions. I've checked in on blogs, responded VERY little if at all over the past couple of weeks...and have only now taken the time to sit down and update my OWN place in cyberspace!

What is it about our world that makes it so frenzied? Did our Mothers sense the same overwhelmed feeling when we were growing up? How about their mothers before them? I am sure there was a "busy-ness" and "hustle bustle" that came naturally with the season and preparing for it...but I also think it's more complex now.

Remember when you could only shop 6 days a week? And remember when the shops ALL closed at night (no 24 hour stuff)? Remember when families really stayed at home in the evenings and watched Cronkite with or after dinner? Remember when sitting at a table didn't seem like an "event"?

There are so many things I wouldn't trade about my life. I love my boys. I love their activities. I love my job and all the activity it brings. One moment to just sit and reflect, though, it seems priceless to me. One quiet moment to breathe and enjoy everything and everyone.

I had a bit of that yesterday as my family took the day to go to the ICE! exhibit at The Gaylord Palms hotel.

The "ice" part wasn't quite as big as I expected, but we made a day of it and enjoyed each other's company. Here are some of our pictures:


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I'd say "THIS is what the season is all about, Charlie Brown!" I'll be back soon!

Clarifications and Conversations

First of all, I need to clarify that my DH is not leaving the Pastorate against his will. God has simply taken him in a new direction that extends to the church as a whole. He is coaching churches in transformation around the country. This means he helps them look at their organization and think about how to bring it into this century and meet the needs of their local communities. (I am sure that he'll think that oversimplifies it....but it's close.)

Last night DS 4 and I attended the Spaghetti Dinner and Book Fair at his school. We sat down to eat and a young man (fourth grader) sat down next to us. He seemed alone. He started speaking to me. I was struck by his articulate conversation. He asked me if I worked at the school. I told him yes. He asked what I do. I explained. Then I asked him if he was new. He said yes. I asked him his grade level. He said, "I'm in fourth grade. I'm supposed to be in the Fifth Grade. The only reason I had to stay back is because I wasn't ready to go on. I had to repeat the grade. I am pretty sure that if I had been here at this school, I would never have been held back. Those other schools weren't good for me. This place has been wonderful."

Wow. What a compliment by a young person!!

I asked where his family was. I meant only where were they last night, I was not asking about his family history--but I got the history and not the location last night. He took a deep breath and continued, "My Mom and Grandma are here. We live together. I have lived in (this city) and (this city). I wouldn't have been kicked out of my last school except that someone hit me and I hit them back. It was HIS fault though, not mine. I'm glad I got kicked out though, because I got to come here. But you asked about my family....I have family from Ireland, England and Cleveland." I must have looked puzzled as I am now thinking he is pulling the wool over my eyes. He continued without missing a beat, "My Daddy lives in Cleveland. His family all lives there. I was born there. Actually, he's incarcerated in the jail up there. He is on the sex offender list, but then that is really none of your business. I came down here and we do not see him. And....now I forgot what you even asked me to start with." Then he took a deep breath as he stopped to think about what started our conversation anyway.

You don't get these kinds of conversations just anywhere! In schools like mine, though, you DO hear them. And you have to non-chalantly keep eating, breathing, smiling, (or whatever you are doing) and say something like, "It sounds like you really know now how to make good choices and are on the right track." He said, "Yes, I am." And off he went.

And as I reflected I thought, I am so blessed! I get to be in a place where children are allowed to be who they are and are helped everyday to grow to their potential. I know I am called to the work I do and there could be no better confirmation of it than a child trusting you to listen as they reveal who they are.

Our Weekend Happenings

It's been a busy weekend. DS 2 had a soccer game on Friday at 8:00pm. His GF came up for it. It was COLD...OK it was COLD for Florida. We all had blankets, but we were pretty cold when we got home. They lost the game....but DS 2 played very well.

Yesterday, DS 4 had a game. This was the final weekend of his season, so they ended up having to play today at 12:00. This is hard because our church is a 35 mile drive. I thought about going to the second service (we usually go to the third), but decided that he and I (and DS 3) would go up here. So, I set out to find a church to visit last night.

For those of you who don't know, my DH will no longer be appointed to a church come January. This will be the first time in almost 20 years of marriage that we will have to look for our own church AND that my DH won't be my pastor. It's a strange feeling...especially when you LOVE listening to him. We will be looking for a new church where we can worship. DH will also continue traveling around the country coaching churches in transformation.

I had my eyes on a church about 30 minutes north of us. But somehow I ended up on the Internet last night and found one that is right in my backyard!! It is literally less than 10 minutes from my house. DSs 3 & 4 and I went to visit this morning. I am blown away!! This church is ONLY 8 weeks old. It is meeting in a school cafeteria...but it reminds me of our current church in so many ways...and I felt so at home.

Could it be that it is going to be "that easy" to find a new church? Amazing.

Today, I called three people I know that are looking for a church in the area and invited them to go to this one. I know so many people who are looking for a church in our area...our current church is just a HUGE drive.

DS 4's team made it to the final game. They lost in that game....but they played a GREAT game. It was evident that the parents were far more into it than the kids....but isn't that the way it goes sometimes?

Now, I am trying to gear up for the last week of school before our two week break. I am READY!!!

Have a GREAT week....

As I promised, I want to share some of my Nativities with the blogging world.
Over to the right, you'll see (starting from the top left) a stocking hanger, a box that holds Nativity ornaments (it's too interesting to put away) and a candle holder. On the second row, you'll see one that one of the boys bought me in their school fundraiser one year. The second one on that row is one that a dear friend gave me. It was made out of one piece of clay. The figures were carved out of the "clay clump". On the bottom shelf, you'll see the ornaments that came out of the box on the top shelf. These are made out of sculpting clay. And on the right, is another small one that one of the boys bought (in a different year) from a different fund raiser.

In the picture directly under this, you'll see one that I bought for myself at an "After-Christmas" sale a few years ago. I love Veggie Tales! They have been an integral part of my boys' childhood years. We have many of the movies. I never took it out of the box because I can think of no better way to display it.

This shelf on the left is also in the family room. Starting on the top is a small tree with Nativity ornaments. Just to the right of it is a snow globe with the Precious Moments figures in it. On the second shelf--to the left is one that a family bought us when we cared for their dog one year. It was purchased in Mexico and is very interesting.

The one to the right on the second shelf was made for me by a friend from our previous church, Sue, who was learning to use the scroll saw (I think that's the right tool). On the bottom row, you'll see two of the smallest ones I have. The one on the left (is white) and very intricate inside. DH's former District Superintendent and his family brought back for us after a trip overseas.

The one on the right on the bottom shelf is in a small walnut shell. It is really special to me. Each year, DH and I have hosted an Open House during the holidays for our church family. This is kind of how the whole Nativity thing began. People would come over and see the ones that we had and then they kind of started adding to the collection as they would see one somewhere.

The little walnut was brought over one year during the Open House. The man who brought it was a WWII vet and when he handed it to me, he said, "I got this when I was serving in the war. I was stationed in Germany. I thought it was so unique, and so I bought it. I knew it needed somewhere special to be, so I am giving it to you." I have displayed it proudly each year since that day. He is gone now...that makes it even more special to me.

This photo shows three more that were given to me by other people. The one on the left was given to me by DH when he went on a mission trip to the Dominican Republic. The snow globe and the center was given to me by DH one Christmas. And the one on the right was given to me by my Dad and StepMom. I believe it's from Phoenix.

This nativity in the photo on the right, was cut out by a man who was in our church in South Tampa. His name was Rick. He also loved looking at our Nativities each year when he would come to Open House. He cut them out and his wife, Vickie, who was quite an artist, painted them. I have always loved this set. It has such character.

I love them below the window painting that is displayed above them. This reminds me of being little and laying awake waiting to hear "sleigh bells in the (ahem) sand"...what can I say? I was raised in Florida...no snow here.

Finally, the shelf in the photo below holds one that was also made for me by Rick. The one on the top shelf that is shaped like a half-circle. It was the first one that he made for me. This served as a pattern later on for my Grandfather as he learned to cut them. He loved this piece, too. The one on the bottom shelf in the picture above is another one made for me by Sue and her husband. They used a wood burning kit on it. It's really neat.

We have only scratched the "tip" of the Nativity "iceberg" that is at my house. There are also ornaments on each tree that have been given to us over the years. The Nativities in this blog entry are all displayed in the family room.

I realize that these are a little like "Home Movies". If you've made it this far, thanks for reading. I'll try to get the Living Room photographed and shared in the next day or so.

Thursday Thirteen #36

Thirteen things about visiting a Housing Project...I went with a colleague to visit a local housing project today. It was to get a "feel" for the situation of a family we are adopting at school for the holidays.

1. I've been TO the projects before...but never IN them. It was QUITE an experience. I don't really "want" to go back--although I will I'm sure.

2. I had to step over three condom packages just to get from the car to the door of the lady's house.

3. She is living in the project with three of her FIVE sons. They are in the minority racially in this project and are scared because of it. One of the boys was "jumped" coming from the bus by a drug dealer and had his collar bone broken.

4. If you really want to know what "milling about" means, then driving into the housing project is a great way to describe it. There were a lot of people just "milling about". I had to wonder about the kids that looked like they should have been in school?????

5. Everyone had a "watchful eye" as we pulled up in a large SUV, though. I had to wonder what thoughts were running through their heads. I know many people approach those areas with an "I need to save them" attitude. I hope they didn't think that about us....I mean people are people in my opinion.

6. The walls are made of cinder blocks. To hang things on them and make the space look "livable" you have to drill into the wall. This was a three bedroom two story apartment. The stairs are concrete.

7. There is one window downstairs. It is at the backside of the project with a fence going behind it. No lights back there. The window slides like a small sliding glass door. She has been broken into twice and is scared "they" are coming back. So she stays up at night to make the house look "active" and then sleeps during the day while the boys are in school.

8. Some people living in the projects are doing the best with what they have. She has decorated well and has kept the place clean and tidy. I have to wonder, though, about things like cigarettes, tattoos, and body piercings. Who is paying for those? And what SHOULD that money be used for?

9. She is a Christian and knows about grace and love...but she is afraid to go to church. She is agoraphobic. I wonder which came first...living in the housing project....or the anxiety and fear?

10. The boys wish for the holidays was for a sports bottle for drinks so that they can use them when they have to sleep in the car to avoid drug deals and such. They are also hoping they can get their "OWN" bath towel. Right now, they share.

11. There are broken things everywhere. Her stove has been broken for months. They keep saying they'll come fix it...but they haven't. So she and the kids eat TV dinners everynight cooked in the microwave.

12. I had to wonder what they looked like in the beginning. Sure they must have still looked institutional...but the broken stuff wouldn't have been there.

13. It is NOT a life I would EVER want to live. It DOES remind me just how blessed I am...and it makes me want to reach out to others out of my own abundance.

In some ways, adopting this family has reminded me just what a skeptic I am sometimes. Working with the population my school serves, I know that there are people who use and abuse "the system". My visit today let me know that there is a need and that it is legitimate...But the things I learned went MUCH MUCH deeper than that. May we all find some way to reach out to those in need this season. Blessings.

Monday Memories...become Tuesday's Treasures

I started this post Monday morning. I've come back to it three times. Now, it's past 9:30 and I'm thinking it may have morphed from Monday Memories to a Tuesday Treasure. Whenever you read it...have a great day.

I can't think of just ONE memory to share, so today I'm going to share my "Memory Tree". This is the tree that sits in our family room. It has all the kids' pictures and handmade decorations on it. It's FILLED with memories. Each year as I put it up, it takes me back to when they were younger and when I was younger.

Our living room tree (shared yesterday) has all burgundy and gold on it. It includes all of our Nativity ornaments (that are wood or folksy) and other collectible ornaments. I love decorating it and sitting in front of it.

The family room tree almost pulls me up close to it, though. I want to touch each ornament and think about who gave it to us, who made it, and/or what it means to me.

Another thing I love putting together, is my village. These pieces have been collected over the years. My favorite holiday movie is "It's a Wonderful Life". I have several houses and buildings that are replicas from the movie. A few years ago, I got a train station that is called "Lexington Station". I bought it because I LOVED the time we lived in Lexington, KY.

Things are coming together at my house...thank goodness!!

Happy Preparing!!

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas...

Here's our formal Living Room tree with two different amounts of lights. I took the first one on the left with a flash...and the second on the right without. I was feeling rather sorry for myself that I was decorating alone...then DSs 3 and 4 came home to help out. Suddenly it was more fun!!

DS 3 and I hung a garland along the sliding glass window behind the tree last night. I'll try and take that photo later.

I have our other tree (with family ornaments on it) up in our Family Room--thanks to DS 4's help. I'll post photos of that later.

I have to get all of my Nativities up. For those of you who don't know me IRL, I collect them. I think I have almost 75 now. Each one has a special place in my heart. Yesterday when DSs 3 & 4 and I were out getting an angel, we rounded the corner with a BUNCH of Nativities and DS 3 quickly put his hands out to hide the shelf and said, "Oh, Mom...this is a restricted zone. Only employees beyond this point." He knew that we could potentially be there a while if I had the chance to look for "just one more".

Speaking of that angel...my tree topper died last year. I went on an angel hunt. I never dreamed it would be quite the undertaking it was. We started at Target...they had them...but they all had those fiber optic wings. Sorry if I offend anyone...but I can't stand that fiber optic stuff. We went to KMart and finally went to the mall. The FIFTH store we went into in the mall was Macys. Thank goodness for Macys...because we found her...and she was on SALE for half price!!

I'm off for more decorating. More later. Happy Preparation Days!!!

What Happened???

I use Blogger Beta. I cannot insert pictures. I want to insert pictures of my Christmas tree. It's like the buttons are all gone. Is anyone else having problems with this? It makes me a little cranky!!! (Updated to add...if this happens to you, it seems that hitting F5 and then the refresh button is the answer. It worked as you can see above. There is also a suggestion to empty the cache after you do this.)

Thursday Thirteen # 35

Thirteen Random Things that SUSAN has done (or thought) this week:

1. I have SO MUCH shopping to do before Christmas! I have bits and pieces done, but it is only bits and pieces.

2. I planned my "holiday" gift for the teachers in my school. I am "giving" them 30 minutes away from their classroom while I go in and teach a lesson. I think I am going to give them cookies and hot chocolate when I go in.

3. We went to the Italian buffet for DH's birthday. As I said earlier, he doesn't like to make a big deal about it...but my DSs do...especially #4. #4 "played" Happy Birthday on the piano and revealed his gift from the bench...toooo cute!!! I think DH appreciated it. DS 2 sent a nice text message from his soccer game...another gesture that I think touched DH.

4. I met a friend for dinner last night. It felt like forever since we have just sat and talked. I love these types of "get togethers".

5. I am supposed to have a Pampered Chef party on Dec. 11th. Once again, I am reminded that I can't do it all...so I think I am going to cancel it.

6. I REALLY want to get my Christmas decorations up...I have the BUG this year!! There are 27 boxes of decorations in my attic that the boys will have to get out for me.

7. I DO like it when DH is here during the week.

8. I also like the fact that, in a few weeks, consulting will be his only job. Doing 2+ is just too much.

9. DS 2 is cleared to play for soccer again. He starts at the varsity game tonight.

10. Next week is going to be CRAZY...we have something going on EVERY NIGHT!!!

11. I am looking forward to the holiday break from school. I need it to rest. (Who am I kidding? It really doesn't bring THAT much rest.)

12. I am behind on writing again. This is an example of "extra" jobs that I need to balance better or reconsider.

13. DS 1 asked me last night if "they" give us TT topics or how we get them. I told him that we pick them ourselves. Today, I kind of wished that suggested topics were posted somewhere.

;-)

Happy Thursday, everyone!!

Wordless Wednesday: When I Think About Peace....

This is where I dream to be....

Happy Birthday to YOU!!

Today's my Dh's birthday. He doesn't like to "do" birthdays too much...and that's OK. And while we don't make a huge deal about it...I have to say that each and every time it rolls around I whisper a prayer of thanks for the day he was born. I am sure that God knew on that day that someday we would meet and that I would be blessed by being married to this wonderful man. I cannot imagine what life would be without him. It's been an exciting, adventurous, happy, 20-year experience!! I'm so glad he was born and that he was picked for me and that we get to spend many many more years together. So, while his birthday might not be a "huge deal" to him...it DOES mean a GREAT DEAL for me...because he's a real gift!!

I love you, Hon!!

It's also my cousin, Lynn's birthday. Why not hop on over to her blog and give her a BIRTHDAY greeting!!!!

Happy Birthday DH and Lynn!!

Monday Memories--Christmas Shopping

I love to shop for the holidays. I usually go the day right after Thanksgiving and hit all the stores. I also pick up stuff throughout the year. I keep a journal telling who I shop for each Christmas and what we get them. I have done this since 1999.

I want to tell about shopping early in our marriage though. Dh and I were living in Kentucky. We were definitely POOR seminary students with a young son. Christmas shopping for everyone was a challenge for me. I love to buy gifts...and knowing we couldn't really afford gifts, I was sad. That Thanksgiving was just dh, DS 1 and I at our home. I don't remember seeing the add, but Lazarus had an "After Thanksgiving Sale". That year, they were giving away free Lazzie Bears (just like the one in this picture) for EVERY purchase.

Now, let me explain. When we got there, we found out that for EVERY item you purchased, you could get a free Lazzie Bear. DH and I bought socks, underwear...anything cheap and necessary and we left Lazarus that year with 20---yes, that's right TWENTY Lazzie Bears! I am pretty sure we didn't just give them away that year...but perhaps the next two years after that. I've never seen a store do that before or since....it was a blessing to a poor seminary student an his teacher wife though..that I KNOW for sure.

I have since lost my Lazzie Bear. I found this picture on eBay and this memory just came flooding back. While I wouldn't go back to that time in our lives for anything, I am thankful for the ways that God provided for us as we struggled to "make it". This is just one of many many examples of blessings that we received during those lean times. And yes, I even think He cared enough to help us be able to give that Christmas....those cute fluffy, white lovable bears!!

Happy Monday Everyone!!

The A-Z of Me Meme

Jane at Cozy Reader tagged me with this meme...Please check the "T"...you MIGHT be tagged...and if you're name's not there, let me encourage you to do it anyway for fun.

The A-Z of Me Meme

A - Available/Single? I am unavailable and proud of it---19 (pushing 20) years!!

B - Best Friend? My husband

C- Cake or Pie? Cake--Chocolate please! BUT Cherry Pie is a VERY close second.

D - Drink Of Choice? Diet Coke!! Especially from Sonic!

E - Essential Item You Use Everyday? My Laptop.

F - Favorite Color? Green

G - Gummy Bears Or Worms? Bears

H - Hometown? I was born in Marion, OH but grew up in Tampa, FL.

I - Indulgence? A trip to Chicos

J - January Or February? January---Super Bowl!!!!

K - Kids & Their Names? 4 sons---no names here/just initials---D, M, J, and A.

L - Life Is Incomplete Without? My husband, children, and extended family.

M - Marriage Date? August 15, 1987

N- Number Of Siblings? 2 brothers

O - Oranges Or Apples? Oranges

P - Phobias/Fears? Small spaces and FROGS!!!

Q - Favorite Quote? "You can if you think you can!"

R - Reason to Smile- My boys are growing into fine young men....

S - Season? Fall (outside of Florida)

T - Tag Three People? KT (KT Chronicles); Lynn (Seeking Thin Spaces); Greg and Christie (Carrkaylary) HOPING to JUMPSTART Lynn and Greg's blogging again!!!

U - Unknown Fact About Me? I was in the Sound of Music when I was a child....I was Gretel (I know that some of you know this already)

V - Vegetable you don't like? BEETS!!!!!

W - Worst Habit? Biting off WAY more than I can chew!!!!!!

X - X-rays You've Had? I think only dental exrays recently....

Y - Your Favorite Food? Italian.....LOVE Chicken Marsala

Z - Zodiac Sign? Leo, but I don't pay any attention to that stuff.

The Friday After...

Normally I go to the stores bright and early the day after Thanksgiving. Normally, I map it all out and go with a plan. I'm out all day and don't come back until I am ready to drop. I mapped nothing out yesterday. I glanced at the adds...but it was literally a glance. Nothing excited me. I didn't feel great. So I slept "in" until just after 7:00am. DH DID look at ads. He DID plan a bit. He and DS 2 left just after 7:30 for the mall. I told him I "might" go out a bit.

DSs 3 and 4 and I DID go to Michaels, to Old Navy, Best Buy, and Walmart. I dropped them off at home mid-morning and went to Sports Authority and Home Depot.

By the time I got home at 1:00, I WAS ready to drop...though not from shopping. I was just tired...still not totally up to par. SO, this afternoon I did something I rarely do on the Friday after Thanksgiving, I SLEPT!! For two hours. It was WONDERFUL!

When I woke up, I worked on our Christmas Cards (getting the photo order)...it took FOREVER. I was starting to think that we'd have to send out Hannukah cards since those were the only styles that didn't cut off my DS 2's head in the photo!! I finally fixed that tonight and Christmas Cards ARE in our future.

After watching Shrek 2 with DS 4 and DH, I am blogging, then I am off to bed.

Hope your Friday was also wonderful!

Wordless Wednesday--Thanksgivings Past

DS 1 (1992) DS 2 (1992)
DS 3 (1998)

DS 4 and Great Grandma (2000)

Thanksgiving Memories....

Since I'm Counting My Blessings this week, AND it's Monday Memory time, I thought I'd share some Thanksgiving Memories with you.

As a child, I remember traveling to Georgia a few times on Thanksgiving to visit my Grandparents. We usually had some other extended family there...Aunts, Uncles, Cousins. It was always cooler there than it was in Florida. I loved the "crispness" of all of it. The day was always filled with parades, food and football (both indoors and outdoors).

I can picture Grandpa sitting in "his chair" right next to the sliding glass door. He was always ready to let a kid or the dog in or out. He'd play "Ladies go pace, pace, pace" (or as he said it, "paize, paize, paize") with the youngest children in the room....or he'd "whisper" in your ear...which meant a great deal of laughter was coming. I miss him so much.

As we grew older, we celebrated in Florida more often and Grandma and Grandpa would come down here. The day was always the same though...the same food, the same parades, the same football...and the SAME FUN!!

I still remember the first year DH and I were married. We traveled to Georgia for Thanksgiving. I was a couple months pregnant and didn't feel good. It was an emotional rollercoaster for me...and probably HORMONE H#!! for my DH. Thank goodness he didn't just turn around and "run"...instead he loved me as he always has...he put up with the rollercoaster and was ever-patient with my emotions. Now I look back and laugh at that year...trying to be the perfect "just married/just pregnant" couple...who were we (OK who was I) trying to kid?????

We have traveled to Tennessee twice in the past decade or so for Thanksgiving. This is always fun as it puts a whole new "spin" on the holiday. We again were able to meet with our extended families and enjoy the crispness and delights of the holiday together.

I have "hosted" Thanksgiving in my own home several times in the past few years as well. I enjoy the preparation...I enjoy the fullness of the house...the love and joy that permeates every crevice as we converge on the holiday. It's a holiday that really has no expectations other than to enjoy (and be thankful for) those you love and the blessings you have.

For us, there are many....and those make the BEST MEMORIES!! HAPPY THANKSGIVING WEEK, EVERYONE!!

Count Your Blessings...

As was probably true in many churches today, DH preached about being thankful and remembering our blessings. A couple of weeks ago, he mentioned that everyone should write down all the blessings they can remember. He suggested that when we are negative, blue, sad, whatever, that we should pull out that list and see the blessings...and we probably won't feel so sad, negative, or blue. Today, he said it again.

Immediately, my mind went to the hymn that we used to sing in church when I was little,

Count your blessings
Name them one by one
Count your blessings
See what God has done.

It's a good idea. We forget so often to stop and see the blessings that are around us everyday. In fact, I think we often take them for granted.

May we all take the time this week to count our blessings and be thankful for each and every one.

More Prayer Requests

Last month, I put this request up on my blog. Today, I am asking you to please continue to remember my SIL, Heather and her family. Heather is facing more medical treatment and chemo. Of course, anytime, this would be stressful, but add the holidays in and I'm sure that doesn't make it easier. You can visit her blog to read a great post about the shock and awe she has experienced in the last couple of days.

Thank you, in advance, for your prayers on her behalf.

More Geometry Lessons...

As I stated in my last post, DS 3 was struggling with Geometry last night. He is in the 7th grade. I took Geometry in the 8th grade and I did HORRIBLE!! I remember struggling and never understanding its relevance to me or the rest of the world, for that matter. I admitted this to DS 3 and I guess DS 4 overheard.

This morning, as DS 4 and I rode to school, he seemed puzzled. He finally spoke up and said, "Mom, you didn't understand Geometry when you were a kid?" I told him that was right. He said, "And you still don't understand it very well?" I said, "That's right." Then, he paused a long time. Finally, he said, "Mom, you do 'get it' at my level, don't you? I mean, you DO understand squares, triangles and circles, right?"

I assured him that 2nd grade Math was within my capabilities...and that I DO know what a circle, triangle, and square is. He simply replied, "Good!"

I know my limitations....

We all have areas that just aren't our forte'. Today's been filled with gentle reminders that it's OK to have them...and that I DO have them....

**My "Alice" called me from my house today and said, "I've torn your house up and I don't want you to be shocked when you get home." She cleans my house and does our laundry for us every week. She is a GOD-SEND and a very dear friend on top of it all. Anyway, after I reminded her that it's her job to pick up and clean up not to tear up...she told me...."we've got to tear up to clean up." M (her DIL) cleaned all my windows (inside and out), the screens, and their tracks. R (her son) moved a lightswitch for DS 3's new room. As I talked to her tonight she said, "I know you don't know where to start sometimes, so I started for you." My limitation (in this case) is totally HER strength. For that, I am thankful.

**I WANT to be superMom and be able to cook and keep up with the boys. The fact is, they are going in four different directions. Tonight was a late night (I have a meeting every Monday until 6:00pm). I totally understand why my Mom didn't want to cook when she got home at 6:00pm. It'd be all I did...so for those of you who live in the vacinity of Moe's Southwest Grill, "If it's Monday, it must be Moe's." We got their $5 for any burrito, chips, and drink deal. You can't beat that.

**DS 3 is doing his Math homework and just called me into the room. He started with "I know you're probably not the one for me to ask this, but..." (He already knew my limitations in this area.) Math is simply NOT my thing. Never has been. Even worse, however, is that he is doing the Math that I disliked the MOST of all: Geometry. I sat down with him. I looked at the samples. I tried to think aloud. I listened to his rationale. I offered to call my friend, Debra, who IS a Math Whiz. He says he got it when he talked it out with me. I could only shrug and say "OK". I'm limited for certain in this area.

**After the "Math Lesson", I went into MY bathroom. It's the first time tonight I've been in my room. SOMEONE clogged the toilet today and didn't plunge!! After 20 minutes of plunging, it finally unclogged. You might say, "if you got it, then it's not a limitation." The limitation here is that I simply am NOT cut out to be Mrs. Fix-it. I'm glad it worked this time. Being a plumber, however, is not a hat I care to wear too often.

Isn't it amazing that despite our limitations, God provides for our needs? I'm thankful for the fact that we have limitations is not a sentence for failure. Instead, our limitations are avenues of blessing from other people and situations. For that, I am thankful.

She's Going Away...

I only paid $25 for her! TWENTY-FIVE! I gave another $25 to get the six chairs with her. I remember that day so well. I was out garage-saling. We were new in the area and trying to furnish our new home on a budget. I came upon an elderly lady's garage sale. She was down-sizing to move into a smaller apartment. I fell in love with her the minute I saw her. I asked, "How much?" The lady replied "Twenty-five." For a minute, I thought she meant $2500 and I was shocked. But then she said, "You can have her and the chairs for fifty dollars." I immediately went over to my FIL's house and woke him up to bring his van to help me bring her home. And here she's been ever since.

I remember the lady being a bit sad about losing HER table. She told me about the dinners she and her family had held around it. She told me it had been used with her kids when they were younger and her grandkids. I promised her it was going to be used for many of the same purposes in our home. I told her what a blessing I knew it would be. I was right.

Here "she" is in the picture below (at the far end, closest to the window) ready for Thanksgiving last year. We had to add two "extensions" to her to fit everybody.

The second picture shows her doing what she does best, entertaining family and friends for special occasions. (Note: This is "her" looking towards the extension tables.)



Here she is below, all dressed up for our Christmas Open House last year. This has been an annual event in our house since DH and I started in the ministry. I have loved having her here for it because she extends to such a nice size to hold all the yummy food!!

Here she is at DS 3's birthday celebration this summer. She's not particularly dressed up...just providing us a great place to eat all the yummy food. DSs 2 and 4 are waiting for the "go ahead" to dive into their lobster feast.

You might be wondering, then, "WHERE'S she going?" Well, we are a growing family. Not in numbers, but the boys are getting bigger and they need their space. DS 3, especially, has been shifted around in our house. He needs a place to call his own. We are closing this dining room "nook" in to make a bedroom/office space. It will have a wall and french doors to close it off. This will make it usable as an office or small dining room (should we ever sell) and usable now for DS 3's bedroom--something he desparately needs.

I have no room for her now. I realize that we really only use her on very special occasions because most of the time we eat at the dining area of our kitchen. It's sentimental, I guess. I love the fact that she extends to hold so many. I love the fact that she is solid wood with some very neat scrollwork on her sides. I'm a little sad. I know that sounds strange. I won't miss her in the way you miss people when they leave. I'll miss being able to "dress" her up for the holidays and special occasions, the joy of feeding so many people around her, and the memories she dredges up (in general). I NOW understand what was happening in the lady's mind as she watched her table be loaded into my FIL's van. Yes, I'll miss her!!

Do you know...

that feeling of being alone,a bit unnerved, kind of blue, and being on the verge of a pity party...and then suddenly feeling like all is right in the world because a loved one comes home by surprise and suddenly security, peace, and comfort fills the room?

I DO! DH came home EARLY last night!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I LOVE that man!!!
DH is in the middle of a lot of travel right now. He is coming home on Fridays, leaving on Sunday afternoon and out for the week. I love it that he is able to do this. But I miss him when he's gone. Last night, I was expecting him at midnight...and when I pulled in from dropping DS 3 off at the church retreat, DS 4 shouted, "DAD'S HOME!" It took me a minute to believe it...but sure enough he was. What a GREAT surprise and a blessing!

When Negative Nellie Comes to Call....

Do you ever get cranky? I do. Last night, I started out for the hospital at 3:45. I had to pick up DS 3 from school at 4:15. We got gas and were on the road by 4:45. This is a trip that normally takes only an hour. Last night it took an hour and forty-five minutes! We finally arrived at the hospital after CRAWLING on the Interstate for the last 45 minutes of our trip.

When we got to the hospital, Dad was tired. He'd had several visitors throughout the day and probably hadn't rested as he should. It was evident that he needed to rest and having us there was NOT going to help him accomplish this. SOOO...15 minutes after arriving, my brothers, SIL, DSs 3 and 4, and I left.

When I got back in the car, I called DH (who's been out of town since Sunday) to remind him about something he needed to do. He responded and I found myself escalating and snapping at him. Poor man. He hasn't even been home and he was on the receiving end of MY "crabby patty".

We went to dinner. I suddenly realized just how tired I was. It came over in a wave. DS 4 (who was also tired) was also crabby and I snapped at him on the way home.

This morning I woke up and promised myself I'd settle down. I didn't. DS 1 didn't do something the way I wanted it done--and I found my "Negative Nellie" resurfacing.

When I arrived at work, my boss called me on the Walkie Talkie to see if I could meet with him this morning. Of course, we ALL know that the RIGHT answer is "OF COURSE I can!" I must admit my "cloud" made me jump to all kinds of negative conclusions about WHAT he wanted. I don't know why. I had no reason to think this meeting was going to be negative...I think I just projected my attitude on the prospect of this meeting. It turned out to be very positive. Shame on me!!

Then, this afternoon I had a conversation with my brother Dan and I said, "I hope I wasn't too crabby last night." I said, "I don't want to be that way." He said, "You can blog about how you're learning not to be negative."

Here's my blog...It's a lesson I'm going to learn...one way or another!! Thanks, Dan, for the reminder. :-)

On a POSITIVE note: DS 3 fixed my TT from yesterday and made the two colors match. Isn't he the greatest????

Thursday Thirteen #35

Thirteen Things about SUSAN'SWeek 1. I MADE my OWN Thursday Thirteen Banner and Code today!!! It's not perfect, but it's a start. (Sorry for tooting my own horn, but I was excited!) I am hoping that DS 3 will be really proud..since he's usually the person I rely on with html stuff. 2. DS 1 started Hapkito (a martial arts combination of Tae Kwon Do and Jujutsu). I love the definition that I found online: Hapkido teaches you to remain in harmony with the universe, by always encountering attack force with softness, anger with calmness, and stress with understanding. (I'm thinking some of us should learn to do that with our minds!!) 3. Grandma and Grandpa saved the day again as they helped out with the kids while I was at the hospital with my Dad. They are quite a blessing to all of us!! 4. Several people at work have "carried" my responsibilities in my absence. I have the best co-workers and colleagues!!! 5. My car can go 344 miles on a tank of gas. (No, I didn't run out...I just know I was REALLY close!) 6. My DS 4's teacher was named Teachers of the Year at our school this year. I love it when great teachers are recognized. 7. An old friend, who I haven't seen in ages, was listed as Teacher of the Year at her school. I passed the sign and saw her name. It made me smile. 8. #7, along with a conversation with my brother, Dan, and watching Dad go through his hospital stint this week, has made me realize I need to send written notes more often. They're just more special. (I'm sorry if I've neglected that with any of you reading this who know me IRL) 9. One benefit of my drives to the hospital is that I "get" to have a Rt. 44 Diet Coke from Sonic!! I love the crushed ice!!!! 10. DS 2 helped me remember that even when they are older and more mature, they still "need" us to draw lines in the sand sometimes. DS 3 also helped me with this....but he doesn't know it!! 11. DSs 1 and 2 totally impressed me as we waited at the hospital on Monday. Neither of them were there...but they called me several times during the day and checked in with me. (Boys are not always the best at this.) 12. I miss, miss, miss my husband when he is out of town. I am so thankful, though, that he is able to live out his passion and calling each and every day. 13. I have also loved the support I have received from the blogging community this week. Your comments and prayers are VERY special to me..and blessed me beyond what you'll ever know. Links to other Thursday Thirteens!

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Wednesday Update

DS 4 and I went up to see my Dad tonight. He is doing much better. While we were there, he walked for the second time today. The bandages have been removed and he actually ate something solid tonight. We're moving along.

I appreciate all of you praying for him. I know those prayers DO make a difference.

I have always been keenly aware that the sincerity and attitude of the health care workers could "make or break" your hospital experience. It is becoming even more evident now. These people have been WONDERFUL! They are calm. They are kind. They are consistent. They smile.

If you know someone who works in health care....or you have experienced great health care....say "thank you". It's a small thing...and they deserve MUCH MORE....but a little "thank you" can go a long way.

i

Normal??? What does it mean???

As we sat with Dad today, I really started to ask myself "what's normal?" I mean he has just undergone major surgery. He wants to know (and we do too)...is everything OK. Is he responding like a normal person would. Yet, I am pretty convinced there is NO such thing as "normal" (perhaps especially in this type of situation).

Because we are unique, because we are "wired" differently, and because we bring different sets of aches and pains to the operation, how could we know that every after surgery response is "normal".

So, rather than ask "Is this normal?" I think I'm going to change my thoughts and questions to: "Is this OK?" or "Is it acceptable?"

Dad's recovering well...he's in pain (which is OK)...and he's having trouble finding a comfortable seating position (which is OK)...he's occasionally a bit incoherent (which is also OK).

He's better (less anxious) when we're there. He at least has some support and people that can advocate for his needs. I came home tonight and will go back tomorrow evening to check in on him and everyone else up there. I also realize that almost as important as knowing the patient is OK...is knowing that the family is "OK" too.

I think we are. Everyone's holding their own right now. This is no short road we're on. It's going to require a journey that has only just begun. I think that together we'll be able to make it and we'll be FINE---er I mean OK...and THAT'S normal, right??? ;-)

Hospitals...UGH!

I don't like hospitals. I really never have. I remember when I was a child, our neighbor was critically ill. Mom would go up to the hospital to see her. Incidentally, it was the same hospital where we have been this weekend with Dad (although they have built new parts to it). We would sit in the lobby while our mother would go up to see her. It seemed like HOURS. I don't know if it was or not...it just seemed that way.

Time seems to pass slower there, doesn't it?

Yesterday, Dad's surgery went rather "fast" (four hours). It didn't seem like long before the doc came out and told us all went well. What DID take long was the time between that visit and the time we could go back in and see him (about five hours). At five o'clock, it was painful to say the least to see him. They had not removed his breathing tube, but he was semi-coherent. He was fighting and very uncomfortable. Since family can only go in for 30 minutes at a time (and only four times a day) this made me want to fuss a bit: HOW long will he have to be in this discomfort? WHY do you let him lay in his bed and struggle like this? IS this good for the heart? DOES anyone care?

The nurse came in and started barking (and I do mean barking) in her "nails-on-the-chalkboard" patronizing voice, "Mr. C. you have to be at a 95 and you're too low! All that smoking you've done made your lungs not work so well. I wanted to take you off the monitors two hours ago, but we can't. You've got to settle down." All I could think was "Blah! Blah! Blah!" He was brushing her off with small motions of his hand...I am pretty sure this was his way of saying to us, "Get her the **** out of here!" She left.

We told him, you've got to relax and breathe so that they can take this tube out. We told him firmly but softly. He nodded and we left. When we told him we'd be back at 9:00, he looked at the clock. You could almost see him calculating that in his head. (I know he was medicated, but it was evident that there WAS some thought going on there.)

I called DS 1 (who is trained as an LPN) and DH (who has spent a lot of time in the CCU and asked him if it was right for her to be barking orders at him. I know they need to be firm. He, however, doesn't respond to that well. They both told us to call her out and just let her know. My stepmother, brothers and I did just that. The nurse listened to us and put up a wall in about two seconds (she just kept saying, "OK."

Of course, we wonder what happened until her shift was over.

We returned at 8:00 and another family in the waiting room told us they came out looking for us. Again, I wanted to SCREAM. They have my stepmother's cell phone number....WHY didn't they call??? She called to let them know that we were back in the hospital. The new nurse (Dave, I think) said they had taken the breathing tube out and that he would be out to get us as soon as possible (they were in the middle of something else).

We waited.

The family that was also waiting received a visit from their surgeon who bluntly came into the room and said, "She's going to die tonight." I thought, "Oh my goodness...right here in front of everyone he said that!?!?!" He could have just as easily been saying, "I'm going to Walmart after I leave here." It was cold and matter-of-fact. Unbelievable. He DID soften a bit after the initial shocker and told these people that they could go see their loved one but that she did NOT look good due to reopening her up...etc. etc. etc.

We waited.

At 10:23, we called the nurse again. He said he still could not let us back there. I am thinking, "What about OUR loved one?" This family is going back. They are going in twos. We wouldn't look. We just wanted to say goodnight and let him know that we are here. The nurse told us Dad knew we were there and that he was ready for bed.

Now, I am preparing to go back for the 9:00 visit.

And as I sit here and think about all this...I realize....

I STILL don't like hospitals much.

Personality Profile

I love these things. So, when I went to Mary's site today and saw it...I decided to jump on over and give it a try for myself. Mary should know that since I think we are long lost sisters, I didn't read hers before I did mine so I could honestly compare. I'm off to do that now. I have to say I just read mine to my brother and he says some of these things just do not apply to me...I'll let those of you who know me IRL decide which ones those are....It's fun anyway..

Your Five Factor Personality Profile

Extroversion: You have medium extroversion. You're not the life of the party, but you do show up for the party. Sometimes you are full of energy and open to new social experiences. But you also need to hibernate and enjoy your "down time." Conscientiousness: You have high conscientiousness. Intelligent and reliable, you tend to succeed in life. Most things in your life are organized and planned well. But you borderline on being a total perfectionist. Agreeableness: You have medium agreeableness. You're generally a friendly and trusting person. But you also have a healthy dose of cynicism. You get along well with others, as long as they play fair. Neuroticism: You have low neuroticism. You are very emotionally stable and mentally together. Only the greatest setbacks upset you, and you bounce back quickly. Overall, you are typically calm and relaxed - making others feel secure. Openness to experience: Your openness to new experiences is high. In life, you tend to be an early adopter of all new things and ideas. You'll try almost anything interesting, and you're constantly pushing your own limits. A great connoisseir of art and beauty, you can find the positive side of almost anything.

The Five Factor Personality Test

All is Well....

Thanks for your prayers. Dad came through his surgery fine. I am now thinking this is when the tough part starts.

It's nice to know there's so much support from so many people.

Sunday's Random Reflections...

As I indicated in my last post, my Dad will be having Open Heart Surgery on Monday. My brother came in from Texas and we will all be there during the surgery. Since the kids cannot go on Monday, my family all went up yesterday to see him.

I must say, they don't make hospitals like they used to!! This area (the heart center) is brand new. His room is huge. There is a monitor on a swing arm by his bed. On that monitor is the phone, the Internet, the TV, and the Remotes to run them all. He came out to the lobby to visit everyone (there's just too many of us for even a large room). He didn't have to push a monitor. The heart monitor is small and clips to his waistband.

Although they will do quite a few bypasses (4 - 6), it sounds like the doctor is confident that this will be relatively routine. As he said, "I'll have the equivalent of a brand new heart." That's a good thing. The doctor says (if he cooperates) that he can drive in two weeks and play golf in six. Now, I'd say that's progress. When my Grandparents each had their surgery, I KNOW they weren't doing stuff that quick.

I was thinking about that "brand new heart" thing on my way home last night. Isn't it true that if WE want a brand new heart (new attitudes, feelings, and ways of thinking) that we need to do about the same thing as a heart patient?

Dad is spending the weekend in the hospital so they can clean out his lungs. This means no smoking, no sodium, etc. If we're going to have new hearts, we too must "clean out" the junk that is there in preparation.

After the surgery, of course, there will have to be lifestyle changes (diet, exercise, etc.). The same is true for the non-surgical brand new heart, isn't it? We have to change our thinking, look through new eyes, and exercise love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, gentleness, and self-control.

Keep praying for my Dad. But also, I'm hoping that for those of us who need a "change of heart" we'll ask for and receive one. It could transform our world!

Prayer Request

For those of you who pray, I am asking you to pray for my Dad. He is in the hospital waiting on heart bypass surgery on Monday morning. I talked to him this morning and he is saying they are looking at 4 - 6 bypasses.

I'll blog more updates later.

Sticks and Stones May Break My Bones....

And words can sometimes hurt me!

Have you ever been at the receiving end of hurtful words? This happened to me last night. It wasn't a family member or really even a "dear" friend. It was someone who I know very little about. Still, she hurled words that hurt in response to something I said.

My first reaction, I admit, was to throw some words right back. I kind of stuck my claws out for a minute ready to respond with some of the thoughts that were running around my head that moment. Instead of stooping (this time), though, I decided to reflect on her words.

This is definitely one of my downfalls. I ponder. I "reflect". And quite honestly, sometimes I sink lower in my "woe is me" pity party when I do so. It's kind of like the puppy who sits and licks a wound. I play those words over and over in my head and soon, like most of us, I start to internalize them. This is ineffective at best. It's one of those human nature responses that can whittle away at our sense of self. While the words are still in my head...I am working to follow the advice of a long-ago pastor: "If the shoe fits, wear it. If it doesn't, DON'T!"

I realized something though. We all sling hurtful words about sometimes. One of Dh's sermons that will always stick in my mind is "Words that Hurt/Words that Heal".

How many times do words go flying off my tongue that I wish I could reach out and grab back? Last night, though it hurt, was a gentle reminder just how powerful our words are. They can bite and sting.

May we all "throw" some "Words that Heal" someone's way today and refrain from those "Words that Hurt"...because even when we are well-intentioned, they CAN hurt!!

Thursday Thirteen #34

Thirteen Things SUSAN'S Learned From Blogging 1. HTML "can" be a real pain in the neck!! (Isn't it amazing the difference a < or a > can make?????? 2. Sometimes it's better to seek an Outside Expert like Susie at Bluebird Blogs to help with it! 3. There are strangers on the Internet that can become friends! (Not "everyone's" an axe murderer....just ask Mary or Sandy. 4. The meaning (and the joy) of Memes. 5. How to insert photos and make Slide Shows like the one from 10/31. 6. Just what "You Tube" is. 7. Blogrolling 8. Blogring 9. The "TRUE" reasons for Mondays (Memories), Wednesdays (Wordless) and Thursdays (13). 10. I am a "very little fish" in a VERY BIG SEA!! 11. How someone can "surf" for more than an "hour" 12. Tags 13. Acronyms 'R Us: DS, DH, FIL, MIL, DM, DD, KWIM, etc, etc, etc!!! What's ONE thing you've learned since you started blogging???

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The purpose of the meme is to get to know everyone who participates a little bit better every Thursday. Visiting fellow Thirteeners is encouraged! If you participate, leave the link to your Thirteen in others comments. It’s easy, and fun! Be sure to update your Thirteen with links that are left for you, as well! I will link to everyone who participates and leaves a link to their 13 things. Trackbacks, pings, comment links accepted!

View More Thursday Thirteen Participants

Halloween Fun!

Here's our slide show from the Block Party at our church tonight. By early numbers, it looks like nearly 1000 people joined in the fun. Here it is through my family's eyes.

And WHAT IS a Snapdragon?

Heather's post today made me realize I forgot what it even meant to "be" a snapdragon (or any other flower for that matter)! SO....I went to look up the definition, here it is according to that quiz:

"Mischief is your middle name, but your first is friend. You are quite the prankster that loves to make other people laugh."

I don't know quite how to take that mischief part....she said with a smile and a wink!!

I'm going to blog more later....and I think I'm off to see if I can figure out what Echinacea is on that quiz. Lynn said someone came out with that description...can't even picture it. It's a little Fall fun anyway.

As I pointed out to Heather, I'm awful glad there ARE more flowers in the garden!! It would be rather boring if we were all the same, wouldn't it???

Just What IS Public Service????

I witnessed a car accident today. One car turned right without even stopping for the red light that was in front of her. She kind of "eased" into the road and the other car that was in front of me (with the green light) tried to move away from the car, but couldn't. It was almost like watching slow motion.

I pulled right behind the two cars as they pulled over. I got out of my car and soon discovered that these were very senior citizens. The front car (the one who doesn't understand red lights) lady asked me, "Why are we stopped?" I told her that she hit the car that was now behind her when she didn't stop at the light. She said, "Do you think I'll need my insurance card?" I told her I was certain someone would want her card because that car didn't have a front bumper anymore.

In the second car, was a couple. She immediately pulled out a plastic envelope filled with papers. I have to be honest I wondered if she'd done this a time or two. I asked them if they were OK and she said yes. She asked me if I saw the accident. I told her I did. She immediately handed me a card from her neat little packet and said, "Would you fill this out?" It was a "Witness Card" to be given to anyone at an accident who said they saw it.

I went back to my car and dialed 9-1-1. Enter Public Service.

The lady at 911 asked me a ton of questions. I told her I saw the accident, no one was hurt, yes the cars were damaged, no there was no power line down, no there was no leakage from the cars....she told me she'd send a public service aide right out.

And we waited. I had a meeting at 4:00 across town. I was obviously going to be late for it. We waited for almost 20 minutes. I called 911 back and asked them if I was OK leaving. She was a bit short with me, but said I could leave as long as I had given them my information. I let the people in both cars know that I was leaving and that someone would be right along.

In the meantime, I called my FIL who I knew was going to be in that area when he picked my DS 4 up from school. He went by there at 4:15 and there was still not a Public Service Aide there. These senior citizens had been sitting in their hot cars for close to 45 minutes! He called 911 to follow-up and the operator was not so friendly.

About that time, an undercover police officer showed up and took care of it.

I'm glad he showed up....I just have to wonder WHAT and WHERE was the public service? Should these people have had to wait so long in their hot cars for help? Should they have been left there on the side of the road without anyone else there? I think response time is important. I realize there could have been other things happening, but we don't live in a tiny town. There should be more than ONE person to respond. I was disappointed and surprised by the amount of time that passed before these people saw anyone besides me or my FIL. That is just not right!!

What do you think is fair "wait time" in this type of situation?

Because I Promised....

I've made two blogging promises that I haven't kept. The first is that I promised Lynn I would do this, here it is.....

I am a Snapdragon What Flower Are You?

Since Mary was also a Snapdragon...I am curious to know if there ARE any other flowers??? OR, are well that much alike in our answers?

And the second promise I made was to Dan that I'd post this picture for a friend of his from work

This is Paula Deen's son. We think it's Bobby. I am certain that those Paula and Son's experts out there will correct me if I am wrong.

OK, promises kept...I'll blog more later.

Photographs and Memories

Do you remember that song?

I am finally home and want to share my week of memories in photos:

Here I am with Mary in front of California Dreamin. We had a WONDERFUL visit! I knew she was neat before I met her face to face, but now I am certain of it. She is a true bundle of JOY!
After I met Mary and Mom and I hung out in Charleston a bit, it was off to Greensboro, NC for work! This is the view from our hotel where we could see the leaves starting to show off their Fall colors for us. I LOVE Fall...so was thankful we got to see some color while there. It was a REAL treat. And then we were off to Savannah to meet Sandy (aka Flip Flop Floozie) at Lady and Sons. Mom and I are standing in the line at 9:30 to get a number at 10:00 only to come back at 11:00 for lunch! If you have not read about Paula Deen and her great restaurant, here's a link: Lady and Sons.

Here's the line...to the front door...and it got much longer than this!
And here's Sandy (on the left taking a picture) and Mom watching the lady that steps into the street and asks "Are ya'll ready to eat?" She doesn't ask once. Nope. She asks it until she's satisfied that the crowd is REALLY ready THEN she rings the dinner and says, "Come and get it!" (We obeyed!)

I had to add another post below to allow me to get all the pics in. Blogger wasn't cooperating...keep reading....

More Photographs and Memories...

I'm going to see if blogger will let me continue my story in this post.

Here's Sandy and I at Lady and Sons.
Here's Sandy showing off the buffet. She was good and didn't eat from it. Being visitors here and knowing it will be a long time before we come to Paula Deen's again, Mom and I had the lunch buffet. MMMMM!!!!


After we left Sandy, Mom and I toured the city. We enjoyed the many sites of Savannah. My favorite was the St. John the Baptist Cathedral and it's gorgeous stained glass windows!
I also quite enjoyed the tour of the Juliette Gordon Lowe Birthplace. You might know that this is the lady who founded the Girl Scouts. What I didn't know before is just how artistic she was. It was amazing. She painted, sculpted, carved wood AND she handmade this iron gate for her garden:


We rounded out our trip with a visit to a lady who was our neighbor when I was a child (more than 30 years ago). She is now 91 and lives in Savannah with her two daughters. It was so neat to see her after all these years.


As you can see, it was a WONDERFUL trip that will live on in these photos (and the many others that I took) for years to come. Thanks to everyone who let us drop in and visit a while. It was GREAT!!

Savannah Smiles!!

I have gone from Charleston Charm to Savannah Smiles!! Today I met Sandy for lunch. I can't wait to post all my pics from my "blogroll tour"....but will have to do it when I get home. I didn't bring my chord to upload pics.

We had a DELIGHTFUL time eating at Lady and Sons. It was wonderful. And what a trooper Sandy is for pressing on to find a parking space! This is a task that is nearly impossible here in Savannah I understand. I KNOW she looked for one for at least 30 minutes after the first time she passed us on the corner...so, Sandy, thank YOU for persevering!

I so totally enjoyed our time together. Yes, I do think it's a great idea to get together with those "friends" we've made via the Internet....

And, no, Sandy is NO axe murderer (even though I DID think about stopping a buying a plastic axe to bring with me)---DS 2, I am TOTALLY fine!

Home tomorrow....I'll update then.

Top O' the Mornin' To Me....

I tried to post this last night, but blogger wasn't cooperating. I know it's Thursday and time for TT, I'll have to do that later on this evening.

Yesterday morning, I received the most wonderful call from my sweet husband! I picked up the phone and heard these words, "Good morning love of my life!" Those words rang in my ear the rest of the day. I love that man!!!

So, to dh....

"Thank you for the wonderful wake up call....love of my life!"

I love that man!

Charleston Charm...

OK, I rolled into Charleston last night at Dusk and must admit I found myself wondering, "Where's that Charleston Charm that everyone talks about?" Mom and I went to the Mall, we drove a bit around in the dark, but still couldn't quite see it.

This morning I drove down to the Visitor's Center to see what we could find before our lunch "date" with Mary. I still didn't quite find the "charm" that I was looking for until we went to California Dreamin' at lunch. Mary is FILLED with charm!!!! It is so funny to meet someone in real life and already know so much about them. We shared a wonderful meal...including soup and salad that wouldn't go away despite the fact that I kept chewing and swallowing...and super conversation.

My Mother commented as we drove out of the parking lot, "It was as if you had always known each other." I think no higher compliment could be paid. She's right.

Mary, thanks for a delightful and CHARMING meal!! We had a great bus tour and found all the historic homes after we left our lunch...but the memory that shall remain dearest is actually meeting this person that I have considered "friend" over the Internet for the year.

Now, I CAN'T WAIT for Thursday when I get to meet Sandy!!

(I can't post any pics while I'm on the road, so you'll have to hop on over to Mary's Place to see them.)