Friday Fave Five - last one for February

 

Another month almost gone! It's been a cold couple of months, and I've been so appreciative of the blessings God sends my way in the simple things I take for granted - a warm home, cozy nights, warm, nourishing food and the blessing of family and friends. With so many in this world lacking, it is even more important for me to think of what I I have and not what I have not. Join us over at Living to Tell the Story to share what is wonderful in your life. And thank you, Susanne for hosting this!

1.  Snowfall: Although I'm ready to see the end of it, I was thankful to see the gentle snowfall we had on Wednesday. It amounted to not quite 2 inches for me, but it was so pretty, and the air is always so crisp and fresh when it happens. It's pretty much gone now but I did enjoy the freshness of it.

2. Preparations for a move to France: No - not me! But my daughter and son in law leave the first part of March for their adventure of living in France. Preparations are going well. Things are being sold, and all looks in good shape. My daughter is having a roller coaster of emotions, but she and her hubby are excited for this new adventure. I'll be blogging off and on as they settle in.

3. Brushing up on my school French: I told my daughter that I would be living vicariously with her in France, so I decided to brush up on my 4 years of high school French. It's coming back quickly which is fun. I've been using Duolingo which is a free learning program online. It progressed you very slowly so I'm tired of translating the same words into French and am ready to move on. Just ask me about "cat" and "dog" and "girl" and "woman" and "pizza" as well as "croissant" and I'm your person! I will eventually change to Babbel which does cost money, but it will get me much farther. On the bright side - I have learned a new word in French - cheval. That means horse.

4. Knitting going well: With some online help from a knitting friend - Willow, I've completed two mitered squares for what will eventually be a blanket (size TBD). I had decided to use a #4 worsted yarn and have discovered that not all worsted is the same. I knit one square of one yarn and then another in a different yarn - same weight but they are definitely not the same size - by any stretch. Maybe it's my tension but I've decided to continue with one particular yarn and will order more of it in different colors.

5. Sleeping well: I have lots of problems with insomnia but lately I've been sleeping much better. I fall asleep in a reasonable time and when I wake up during the night, I fall asleep quicker. That is truly a blessing. My muscle aches have been much better with better sleep.

My prayers and attention have been on the releasing of the hostages from Gaza - those alive and those deceased. My heart is breaking for those still in captivity, for those who are adjusting to "normal" life again and for those who are mourning. I pray that someday such violence and hatred will end. For those of us who understand, we all know Who the answer it. . .

I hope everyone has a blessed weekend.

Friday Fave Five for Valentine's Day

 

Valentine's Day . . . a day I face with mixed emotions, and they change from year to year. But I love the idea of having a special day to celebrate those who you love. Whether it's a spouse, children, loved ones or friends, there are people on our lives that we dearly love and who love us back. They are such blessings. This week, I'm sharing the blessings that have come to me this week. Thank you, Susanne at Living to Tell the Story or getting us all together each week to share our special blessings. Come join us!

1. Computer working:  Last week I shared how my newer laptop went blank, and I saw no way of getting it going. I have been using my spare laptop, and it has worked okay except for some glitches but it's slower than molasses. This week, I googled what might be wrong with my newer laptop and most didn't make any sense to me except that perhaps it had gotten too hot. This had never happened before, so I didn't consider that as a possibility. But, just for fun, I got it out, plugged it in and voila. . . . a perfectly fine working computer! I have no explanation for it other than divine intervention but I'm just happy I'm back to my old friend. So much faster and I'm not knocked off the internet as my older one did.

2. Breakfast with my daughter in law: Stephanie is more than just the lady who married my son, she's become such a dear friend. She suspected that Valentine's Day was a challenging day for me, so this morning, she suggested treating me to breakfast. We sat and talked for hours. She and I understand each other so well and we shared deep emotions as well as chit chat. We stopped at Dutch Brothers for coffee and then gabbed some more. What a blessing she has become to me. Everyone needs a "Stephanie" in their life.

3. Precious memories: It's been just under 43 years since our wedding day and almost 24 years since Alan passed on to glory. 

September 11, 1982

Some Valentine's Days are challenging and that's when I dig out our wedding book and relive the memories. Alan bought me one single rose on Valentine's Day, 7 months before we married. It was also on Valentine's Day of 2001, that he received his cancer diagnosis. On our way home, we stopped at the grocery store for a few things, and he came out with a single red rose. For a few years after that, I would buy myself a single red rose to help mitigate the emptiness of that day. It was a reminder of his thoughtfulness and our love. Today, even though, he's not by my side, he's waiting for me in heaven. I have treasured memories of our years together and they make me smile. This isn't written to get sympathy but to celebrate the love that God sent my way. I may even get out our wedding book again to reminisce. 

4. Apollo:  I have to share occasionally about this little fur-guy in my life. Since I returned from my vacation in Florida, he has not left me alone. He's not, by nature, a cuddly cat and doesn't not like to be picked up and held. He shows his affection (and demands) in other ways like batting his head against my hand or arm wanting to be petted. Or now sleeping up near my head during the night. Or patting my face with his paw early in the morning when he thinks we should be getting up (aka feed me!) Affection is on his terms and that's okay. I'm thankful for whatever he gives.

5. Reading scripture: Or listening to it....or mediating on it. This week, God has reminded me of several scriptures that I've specifically needed. He has reminded me through His word that I am loved beyond measure... that I care for and provided for.... that I am saved from destruction...that I have eternity to look forward when I finally see Him face to face. The list is endless. How precious is the Word of God!

I hope that you all are looking forward to a special time with your loved ones and a wonderful weekend. It's turned cold again here in east Tennessee but I'm also seeing the trees with tiny buds. The cold won't last forever. Have a blessed weekend.

Friday Fave Five for January 10

 

It's been a cold few days and my area is currently under a Winter Storm Warning. Snow estimates are between 2 and 6 inches depending on the area.. I've been trying to concentrate on my blessings more often than just once a week but I'm thankful for this spot each week to share mine with others. Thank you, Susanne at Living to Tell the Story for giving us this spot.

1. Our first snow fall. . .

We got our first snow fall earlier this week. It was pretty but short-lived - gone within 3 hours. However, today it will be a different story. We're under a Winter Storm Warning with snow expected later this morning and all day, into the night. It's not going to be anything as impactful as our neighbors to the north, but enough to cause some doctor's offices and some schools to close today.  Bread is sailing off the grocery shelves and it reminds me of those days in Florida jsut before a tropical system was expected.  I'm all set - food in the cupboard and fridge and nowhere I need to go. I'm just going to enjoy the pretty snow fall in my warm apartment.

2. 2025 Bible reading plan . . . This year I decided to read my Bible in chronological order. I found a good reading plan which looks interesting if a bit disconcerting. Imagine encountering Job just a few chapters into Genesis! Looking ahead, I see how stories from some of the Old Testament combine together along with a mixture of Psalms. I'm excited to really see how all the stories I've known in bits and pieces will come together.

3. Early mornings. . . Occasionally I have those mornings when I'm awake at 5 am and unable to go back to sleep. It's then that I get up and quietly begin my day with a cup of coffee. This morning called for some extra ambience and so the candle. On these mornings, I give myself permission to go slow and not jump into my day. 

4. Jesus as my Good Shepherd. . .Awhile back, I came across this print that touched my heart. I've always loved the idea of Jesus being my Shepherd. This wall hanging is a perfect depiction of His loving care towards me. I've hung it over my desk and it's a constant reminder that I am loved by my Savior. He left the 99 to rescue me and for that, I'm truly thankful.

5. Looking forward. . . In a couple weeks I'll be winging my way down to Florida for a few days with my daughter and son-in-law in Florida. Since they will be moving to France in a few months, this will likely be my last visit with them face to face for a while. So, I'm going to enjoy the days to the max as well as perhaps thaw out on the beach.  

My prayers go out to those in Southern California who have lost homes and lives with the devastating fires. And for those in snow bound areas who don't have adequate shelter from the cold. A bonus blessing is seeing how mankind pulls together during times of catastrophe. I'm hearing every day of companies and individuals who have donated campers to those who lost their homes from Helene and have been living in tents. 

Wishing everyone a warm, safe weekend.

Friday Fave Five - the first of the new year

 

Hello, everyone! I totally missed our get together last Friday. Half of my family came down with the crud right after Christmas and the other half are still fighting it. I was feeling a bit poorly for a couple days and still not up to snuff, as they say, but things are looking brighter. And now we're into a whole new year and it's time to get back to my friends here and recount all the blessings that have come my way. Come join us at Living to Tell the Story. Thank you, Susanne for hosting this.

1. A few days of warmth: Part of our week was warm and wonderful. I sat outside in just a light hoodie. So pleasant. Then, the other day the temps plummeted and are promising to drop more. I'm sure feeling the cold more than I used to and yesterday I had to really bundle up to go to the store. We might possibly get some wintry mix Sunday and Monday. 

2. An interesting program: A friend clued me in on a British program on PBS called Mr. Bates vs the Post Office. It's a series of 4 episodes, taken from a true story about a big snafu with the British postal service that went on for many years. Well worth the watch!

3. My own Post Office snafu: I've had my own issues with our postal service this week. My doctor prescribed a new diabetic med that was called into my insurance's online pharmacy. They did their job effectively but for some reason my package has been held up at the post office in Knoxville, not far from me since December 24th. I visited my local branch on Monday to inquire and was told that they "think we've located it" and will let me know. This morning, I received an email that it is to be delivered today. I'm relieved/frustrated/irritated but hopefully the matter is resolved. 

4. Christmas! It was a lovely day, nice weather, gathering with family and a time to celebrate the birth of our Savior. This season was a quieter one for me, with not a lot of activity but a lot of reflection. I still am in awe that the Creator of the Universe, the Second Person of the Trinity came to earth as a baby to live among us and give His life for us. 

5.  Getting over sickness: Two days after Christmas, my son (part of the Christmas gathering) came down with a fever and cough. Then his wife. And I understand everyone at our gathering Christmas Day. By the weekend, I was feeling a bit puny - no fever but a tight chest and feeling sooo tired. I haven't made too much of my illness to family and friends because the family seems sicker than me. I did manage to take down the tree and 'undecorate' but that's been the extent of my activities. Today I'm feeling almost normal.

I chose a One Word for the year this year. I don't usually do that. But "simplify" dropped into my spirit and so I'm mulling it around a bit. I can make life so complicated and then when it becomes overwhelming, I throw up my hands. It's going to be an interesting year.

I'm wishing you all a very blessed and Happy New Year!

Merry Christmas

 

I'm wishing you all a very blessed and Merry Christmas. May the love of Jesus feel very real to you this Christmas season. 

"Come thou long expected Jesus.

Born to set thy people free."

Friday Fave Five - December 20, 2024

 

We are so close to Christmas! You can feel the hum of all the excitement as you shop. Commercialism is urging you to "order now for Christmas". This Christmas has a different feel to it - at least for me. With my health issues still ongoing, I've dramatically toned down my festivities. Just don't have the energy or even the inclination. Instead, the reason we celebrate this season has been brought to the forefront of my thinking. I am thankful for so many things. But Jesus heads the list. The fact that the second member of the Trinity, chose to come down and be born and live as us mere mortals - for love and for our ultimate salvation. It boggles the mind! Amidst Santas and Rudolph and the Grinch, there is a baby lying in a manger, "Immanuel - God with us."  Come join us to share what you are thankful in your lives. Thank you, Susanne at  Living to Tell the Story for giving us this space. My prayers are with you.

1. Jesus! My Savior, my closest Friend, my Provider....the list goes on and on. I'm so thankful that His love was demonstrated so vividly in coming to earth to live among us. He is the Reason for the Season!

2. A cancellation at my doctor's office: I have suddenly been running very high blood sugars. Despite the fact that my eating hasn't been 100% good for a diabetic, the occasional indulgences shouldn't warrant such high numbers. I called my doctor's office Wednesday hopefully to at least get in to see an NP as my doctor is already booked 2 months in advance. Low and behold, i received a call from her nurse later and put me in a slot yesterday due to a cancellation. This almost never happens. I'm awaiting results of blood work as she thinks my type 2 diabetes is worsening. I know she'll be adding a new medicine to my regime.  

3. Christmas movies: I'm generally well into my Christmas movie viewing by now but just haven't been in the mood. Last night I watched the first for this year. "A Muppet's Christmas Carol" was delightful and one of my favorites. Michael Caine, who played Scrooge is considered one of the best Scrooges ever portrayed. A little tidbit is that he once told an interviewer that he decided to act just as if the Muppets were real people. He took the role very seriously and it shows. Coming up is White Christmas, It's a Wonderful Life, Miracle on 34th Street (the older version), and my Christmas Eve tradition - A Christmas Carol - the Alistair Sim, 1951 version. And it's got to be the black and white version - it's spookier!

4. One less cat who will populate the earth: Indy, the one male of the litter my daughter in law and son are taking care of was neutered on Tuesday. He came through it fine. It was becoming urgent as all the cats were showing signs of "romantic intentions." 

5. A Florida trip next month: My daughter and son-in-law's Christmas gift to me is a flight down to visit them in Florida at the end of next month. This will be especially poignant as they are moving for a year to France in March. (I'll try not to cry while I'm there.) Five days of warmth and beaches and family love! Although, it's been chilly in Florida this year, so they can't guarantee the 'warmth'.

Wishing you all a very blessed Christmas and time with family and friends. Thank you for your visits here throughout the year. Each reader, each visit means so much to me.

Bonus! It hit me just now that I never changed my blog graphics over to Christmas. That's how "out of it" I've been. So, at least for a couple weeks, here it is!

Friday Fave Five for December 13

 

I'm sitting here surrounded by blessings - a warm home sheltering me from the winter chill. . . . my dinner in the oven. . . . Christmas decorations. . .  and just the blessing of being alive. It's Friday and I'm taking time to chat with you about some of the lovely blessings of this past week. Come join Susanne and the rest of us at Living to Tell the Story and let's hear about yours.

1. Our first snow fall. Far from a winter wonderland but it was lovely to see, nonetheless. I looked out my window to see big snowflakes falling and accumulating on the grass and cars.

The photo didn't capture the snowflakes, but you get the idea. I enjoyed it for about an hour and a half when the sun came out and it disappeared. But it was lovely while it lasted.

2. My daughter in law's family has moved: My son and one grandson flew down to Florida this week to help my DIL's mother and sister move up here to TN. It was a grueling couple of days - loading the moving truck and driving up to TN on Tuesday and unloading the truck the next day. Then today, my son had to be back to work. But, except for the usual snafus of loading a household full of furniture, the truck, my son and grandson and my DIL's family made it up here safely. 

3. Earlier vet appointment: I know I've told you the story of my tender-hearted son and DIL adopting in a very pregnant feral cat. She produced 6 kittens - 5 girls and 1 boy. They are now almost 4 months old and beginning to show signs of maturing - if you get my drift. The one male - Indie was scheduled to be neutered January 7th - way too long to wait. She's now able to get him in next Tuesday. Meanwhile, please pray they can find homes for some of these fur balls!

4. Women's ministry Christmas party: Last week was the week for Christmas parties for various ministries at my church. Last Saturday was the annual Women's Ministry party led by our pastor's wife. It was a buffet breakfast with lots of wonderful items to choose from. There was a carol sing, some games and door prizes. 

I was able to get a pic before everyone was seated. They always decorate so well for these! 

Two lovely friends sitting across from me. We also are in Servant's Hope together.

5. Christmas reading: I have a few books that I traditionally read during this season. So far, I've gone through. . .Village Christmas and The Christmas Mouse and No Holly for Miss Quinn - all by Miss Read (Dora Saint). There's listening to Shepherd's Abiding by Jan Karon. I'm finishing up my reading with A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens. I had to buy another copy of it last year when the cover of my paperback copy was destroyed by a certain pet. I found this one at Thrift Books. It is a treasure - a hard copy, large print and beautifully bound. 

 As you can see by the front page, it is illustrated by P, J, Lynch. Just beautiful! I have seen a reproduction of this book with the original illustrations by John Leech and these by Lynch look just as lovely! 

We are edging up to just about 10 days before Christmas. It just doesn't seem possible. This year, I am reminding myself amidst the shopping and baking and preparing - that it's all about Jesus.

 

"Come thou long expected Jesus,

Born to set thy people free

From our fears and sins release us,

Let us find our rest in thee,

Have a lovely week, my friends!

Friday Fave Five - December 6

 

It's time to set aside some time to reflect on the blessings that come our way. Sometimes they are big and other times they are just part of everyday life. It's been a chilly week here and so I've especially been focusing on the creature comforts of home and hearth. Thank you, Susanne for hosting this spot. Come join us at Living to Tell the Story

1. Late birthday gift: Yesterday a friend gave me a late gift in a pretty gift bag. It had 2 pieces of chocolate (she knows I can only have a small amount), a pair of "Christmacy socks" and this. . . .

It is a prayer journal but since I've been wanting to begin a Gratitude Journal, then this is what it will be. It comes with a pen reminding us of Psalm 103:2.

"Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all His benefits."

2. Christmas decorations up: Since my living space is small, my decorating is small. Nevertheless, it's mine and very special to me. Just about every ornament on my tree has a story. Here are a few photos.

The tree is still wanting a tree skirt....

The lighted snowman on the chair is a long-ago gift from a friend.

Part of my Mitford Village - from Mitford fame by Jan Karon. These pieces were hard to come by - found piece by piece on Ebay. The building pieces have since been retired. I have them partly from the "Winter "collection and others from the "Spring" set. I bring out the winter ones at Christmas and the spring ones are there the rest of the year.

Left to right: the Main Street Grill, the Local, Lord's Chapel and Fernbank

My Nativity set - hand painted by me over 40 years ago just before I entered nurse's training. The only casualty has been the angel that fell.

3. Servant's Hope Christmas luncheon:  Servant's Hope is a ministry in our church where we visit shut-ins and those in nursing homes and other facilities. Many of the people we visit were once Servant's Hope members themselves. Yesterday, we gathered at Austin's Buffet for a time of celebration. Wonderful food - especially for a buffet and lots of chatter and laughter. I am blessed to know these lovely ladies (and one man!)

4. A warm home: This is a repeat from other weeks, and you'll probably see it a lot here. I awoke to 17 degrees this morning. I know some of you are having much colder temps but for East Tennessee, where it's supposed to be "the south" it's cold! We had snowflakes in the area the other day but I didn't see any my way. Sitting in my living room with a good book and a cup of warm tea is bliss for me on these days!

5. The Christmas season: I look forward every year to the spirit and happiness of Christmas. And yes, there is the commercialism which I could do without. But houses are decorated with lights and our local mall looks Santa's workshop blew up. I remind myself that Christmas isn't all about gifts under the tree or Santa or the Grinch (whose merchandise seems to be very prevalent this year.) 

I found a poem on a Face Book friend's post this morning. It can be found in one of the Mitford novels by Jan Karon and it speaks so beautifully of this season. Thanks to my friend Linda for posting,

Wishing you all a lovely weekend full of joy and peace and Jesus!

Music for your Saturday

I am moved by music. There have been those songs that have touched me in ways I can't explain. God has used songs to speak to me so profoundly and brought me healing when I was in despair. I hear a certain song, and I can remember vividly where I was when I first heard it or how I was feeling at the time.

Recently I've been going through my You Tube playlist of Christian songs and through the listening, I've been reminded of God's faithfulness to me and that no matter what situation I'm in or what emotional trial I'm in, He is always with me. 

I felt impressed by God to share some of them so for the next few Saturdays I'll put one up here. I pray you enjoy and perhaps it will speak to you as well. 

This one:

"I Won't Let Go" by Rascal Flatts

Friday Fave Five

 

Good morning! I wrote a post a few moments ago and for some reason it didn't publish. And now it's gone completely. But I'm persistent and I'm here to try again. Despite technical difficulties, I want to share my blessings for the week. If two such posts end up being published, well, then you have a choice of reading material or you could read both! Thanks to Susanne at Living to Tell the Story for giving us this spot. Come join us!

1. Protection from the storm: Our local meteorologists warned us all day Tuesday that we had a severe storm coming later that day: torrential rain, high winds, hail, flooding, and possibly tornadoes. We were under a 6 pm tornado warning until 2 am the next morning. There were a few power outages and some downed trees in the Smoky Mountains Nation Park but in my area, we only had some rain and lightning. Being an ol' Florida gal, I did what I could to prepare: secure anything outside that might go flying, lay patio chairs on their sides etc. I'm thankful that we were basically unaffected. But I am sad for those who were. 

2. Upcoming daughter visit: My daughter will be here one week from today! I'm looking forward to some gal time. We may take a touristy day trip. Not sure yet. But I know there will be plenty of knitting and chatter. I can't wait!

3. A new book: I have a very dear friend who reviewed a book on her blog that sounded interesting. During one of our frequent emails, I told her I was going to buy it. She graciously offered to send her copy to me to keep. It came yesterday.

I've read another book by Patti Callahan - "Once Upon a Wardrobe" which I thoroughly enjoyed. I'm looking forward to beginning this one.

4. A full cupboard and fridge: My income is of the retirement-type, so I always look forward to the day it all hits the checking account. By then, I'm low on a few of the essentials such as toilet paper and clothes detergent etc. It's a busy day going to 2 or 3 different stores with the best prices but at the end of the day, I'm thankful for the blessing of provision, in whatever shape it takes.

5. Easter Sunday: The most blessed of all days on the church calendar. There was a wonderful church service and then dinner with my son and daughter in law afterward. The real blessing is what happened that day, long ago. Jesus, the Son of God, died a cruel death. For me. For you. Death thought it had won. That was Friday but Sunday was coming. Something was about to happen.

"Cause I'll rise again.

Ain't no power on earth can tie me down.

Yes, I'll rise again.

Death can't keep me in the ground."

"Rise Again" by Dallas Holm

Wishing you all a blessed upcoming week. 

Friday's Fave Five

 

It's a bit surreal, seeing the tail end of the first month of 2024! Where did it go? Between being sick and then snowed in, it's been a quiet month. I'm happy to see another Friday, to count the blessings of the week. Thank you, Susanne from Living to Tell the Story for hosting this! Come join us!

1. A new great grand daughter: The biggest blessing of the week! Samantha Dawn was born January 18th coming in around 7 and a half pounds and 20 inches. There had been a concern with the snowy conditions if she'd be able to get where she needed to be. But all went well, and I am now a great grandmother of 7! And me just a mere child myself!

2. Another great granddaughter birthday: Today Miss Savannah is 5 years old!

Here she is hold her new baby sister, Samantha. Savannah,....Samantha! Those two close names will keep me on my toes! She is so proud. 

3. Back to normal: After over a week of snow and ice, we now have rain. It has effectively gotten rid of the snow and now what is left is slush. Not as pretty as the fluffy stuff but at least I was able to get to the grocery store and the dumpster to get rid of garbage, and even to my car without slipping. The temps are also much more pleasant. We actually had mail delivery yesterday!

4. A new glass tumbler: Now, doesn't that sound exciting! If you recall last week, I shared a photo of a candle called "Cynthia". 

"Cynthia" came with instructions on the care of this candle, including a suggestion of how to use the glass when the candle was gone. So, here we have "Cynthia, the tumbler."

This really is a blessing because I needed a small tumbler for my occasional diet soda. The size is perfect and it's hefty. I love to recycle things. I can be a hoarder, if I'm not careful.

5. A crock pot meal: to me, there's nothing more satisfying that putting a whole chicken, carrots, celery and onion in my crock pot, and five hours later, I have 3 or 4 meals plus soup with the bones. And it makes the whole place smell wonderful! Tomorrow, I'm using some of the chicken to make a Chicken and stuffing casserole from a recipe I found on the internet. I'll let you know how it goes!

I hope you all are doing well with the very interesting weather we've had. How strange it is to grow up in snow country as a child and love every minute of it. And then, as an adult, I have to make myself enjoy its beauty and forget the inconveniences. Ah, to be a child again and make snow angels and sled down hills on my aunt and uncle's farm! Any of you tired of "adulting?" I think of Jesus asking us to become as little children. There is a trusting innocence there that everything will be alright. I'm so thankful that with Jesus I can become that little child once again. 

Have a lovely weekend. 

Merry Christmas!

 

Love Came Down at Christmas

Love came down at Christmas,

Love all lovely, love divine;

Love was born at Christmas,

Star and angel gave the sign.

Worship we the Godhead,

Love incarnate, love divine;

Worship we our Jesus,

But wherewith for sacred sign?

Love shall be our token;

Love be yours and love be mine;

Love to God and others,

Love for plea and gift and sign.

Christina Rosetti

Wishing you all a very blessed and Merry Christmas! 

Friday Fave Five - Merry Christmas

 

Christmas Day is almost here! In the middle of the bustle of shopping, baking and all the festivities of Christmas, it's good to just sit quietly and reflect on the blessings of this week. Thank you, Suzanne from Living to Tell the Story for hosting this opportunity to share. So, here we go!

1. A new knitting project: A began a new project this week - fingerless gloves. They are a beginner pattern from Craftsy from a class called Start Up - Knitting. The stitches are very basic so my intent with this project is to get my tension better and have the finished project look more polished.

10 rows of knit stitch. Now onto a few rows of stockinette.

2. DNA results: My sister, for my birthday, bought me a 23 and Me kit so that I can find out my ancestry. She and another sister have done it as well as many relatives on my father's side, so it's been fun. The results came the other day. Turns out I'm almost all Western European. My ancestry can be traced to the United Kingdom, Ireland, England, particularly West Yorkshire and there's also a bit if Scottish. I've always wanted to know this, and the results really don't surprise me at all. I've always felt drawn to that area.

3. Dinner with family:  My daughter-in-law's mother and sister are visiting from Florida and so we all got to dinner last night. Afterward we drove through a couple neighborhoods who decorate lavishly for Christmas. Both are cul-de-sacs and with the exception of 2 houses, all were decorated. Cars were lined up to turn in to see it all and there was even police there guiding traffic. I couldn't help but think that there's no going anywhere for these residents on nights like this. A couple photos taken with my camera from a moving car so forgive the blurriness.

 

 

4. Better sleep: Since my new mattress was set up last Thursday, I have been sleeping like a top. I don't wake up several times during the night with pain and overall, I feel much better. Fibromyalgia is a bear if you haven't had enough restorative sleep. I'm very thankful to my daughter and son-in-law for this early Christmas gift.

5.  Jesus: The biggest blessing of this season is always to celebrate the birth of the Savior of mankind. It boggles my mind that God came down as a baby and lived like us with the sole intention of providing us a way to live with Him forever. 

This week's FFF is short and sweet but my wishes for you are much bigger.

A very Merry Blessed Christmas to you all!

My Day

 Today is: December 18, 2023

I am pondering:  This upcoming week. I've tried to keep the "bustle" out of Christmas but it's difficult to not get wrapped up in all the things "I should be doing." This week, I'm quieting my spirit and concentrating on Whose birthday it is.

Among my favorite things:  Two of my great granddaughters down in Florida. 

  Ava

  Bella

Books I am currently enjoying:  I'm in the midst of Christmas reads at the moment. This last week it was "The Christmas Mouse" by Miss Read and "No Holly for Miss Quinn" also by Miss Read. This week is "A Christmas Carol" by Charles Dickens and I'll be watching a couple versions of the movie as well. I'm finishing up with our Mitford Book Club read - "Shepherds Abiding" by Jan Karon.

I am thankful for:  God's provision for me this year and for His continued blessings. 

Never too old to learn:  I'm working more on my mountain dulcimer. I belong to an online dulcimer group, and we "met" online last evening. We're having our Christmas party late this year - on the 29th and each of us has been challenged to play a Christmas song or carol then. I've never played in front of anybody, even online so I'm a bit concerned. But everyone has to start somewhere!

From the kitchen:  Being such a good menu planner, I have no idea what I'm having for dinner tonight. On the agenda though is a baked ham and baked mac and cheese for later in the week for my daughter-in-law's family who are visiting her. 

Something I really enjoy:  My daughter-in-law and I attend first service at our church at 9 am. After service, my son, who plays in the praise and worship group, stays to play for the second service, While that is going on, Stephanie and I go out for coffee and then sit in the church lot waiting for Mike to come out. We have the best talks then.

A quote to remember:  "Your job is simply to be obedient to God. God will handle everything else." 

                                                                                               Lysa Terkeurst

To do list for today:  Right now, I'm sipping my coffee and waking up. Next comes breakfast and getting dressed. That's about as ambitious as I am right now. Oh, and yes . . . decide what's for dinner.

"In the beginning was the Word and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was in the beginning with God. All things were made through Him, and without Him nothing was made that was made."   John 1:1-3

I'm wishing you all a very blessed Christmas!

Many thanks to Dianna of Joyful in His Presence for the format for "My Day". 

      

Friday Fave Five

Such a wonderful time of the year! Amid all the shopping and Christmas lights and Santas on every corner, I make sure I remember the biggest Blessing of all - .the birth of the Christ Child. Here are some blessings and favs that have come my way this week. Thank you to Susanne at Living to Tell the Story.for giving s a spot to share.

1.  A new mattress: My present mattress is ages old and the worse for wear. This week, my daughter and son-in-law blessed me with an early Christmas gift - a new mattress. It's a hybrid - a combination of inner springs and foam. It came in a 67-pound box via UPS and the kind driver brought the box in for me. My son and daughter in law came later to help me set it up. It really is quite amazing. You open this box and out comes the mattress compressed and rolled up. Undo the plastic wrapping and you quickly have a queen size mattress. It's recommended that I give it 24 hours before I use it but I have no other option for sleeping so I've had to test it out early. 

2.  Another blessing: My daughter in law brought lasagna for us after the bed was set up (and my old mattress taken to the trash pickup area.). The leftovers stayed with me so I have dinner for tomorrow night as well.

3.  Christmas reading: I love to read, and I have certain books that I traditionally read around Christmas time. Along with "Shepherds Abiding" by Jan Karon which I'm reading with the Mitford Book Club group on Face Book, I read "A Christmas Mouse" and "No Holly for Miss Quinn", both by Miss Read - another of my favorite authors. Next on my list is "A Christmas Carol" by Charles Dickens. 

4.  A finished knit project: My first ever completed knit project is a cowl made of some very soft and pretty yarn. It's a cotton and acrylic combo, light weight and soft - perfect as an accessory rather than for warmth.

It was not my favorite stitch to do, and I made lots of mistakes. But my daughter, a wonderful knitter and my mentor told me to be proud of it and embrace the mistakes. So, I have.

5.  My husband's birthday in heaven: That probably doesn't sound like it should be in "faves" but even though he's no longer with me, I have the wonderful memories of our time together. And he is free of pain and the seizure disorder he suffered with most of his life. And he is with Jesus. Someday I'll see him again.

Our wedding in 1982. We didn't have much money then. His suit came from a consignment shop and my dress was a prom dress on clearance from a local shop. 

Ten days until Christmas! Where does the time go? Wishing everyone a blessed Christmas season!

My Day

 Hopefully this post will be a regular Monday occurrence. Thank you, Dianna at Joyful in His Presence for allowing me to borrow your idea!

TODAY IS December 11, 2023

AROUND ME: A chilly 35 degrees with clear skies after our weekend of endless rain.

I AM PONDERING: The peace that seems to have settled in my home lately. I look around at my itty-bitty apartment and the coziness of it and smile. My little abode is all decorated for Christmas, and I can feel the peace and content - a first in many years. 

AMONG MY FAVORITE THINGS: Apollo!

He can be feisty one minute and the biggest cuddler the next. He's a sweetie!

BOOKS I'M CURRENTLY ENJOYING: Right now, I'm in the middle of "Made for More: An Invitation to Live in God's Image" by Hannah Anderson. She brings out points I've never thought of. And then there's my annual Christmas reading of "A Christmas Mouse" by Miss Read and "Shepherd's Abiding" by Jan Karon which I'm reading along with the Mitford Book Club on Face Book.

I AM THANKFUL FOR: God's protection during severe weather. Saturday afternoon and into the evening, two tornados ripped through middle Tennessee, not too far from Nashville. My area which is about 2 1.2 hours from there was under a severe weather alert but the most we experienced was rain and lightning. Six people died, including a toddler and my heart and prayers go out to those affected.

NEVER TOO OLD TO LEARN: My first knitting project, a cowl, is completed and lying on a towel on my kitchen table drying after blocking. 

I'll show another photo when I can wear it. Not a close up though. Then you'd see all my mistakes!

FROM THE KITCHEN: Tacos for dinner. 

SOMETHING I REALLY ENJOY: I really enjoy watching mysteries. I have the whole DVD set of Poirot with David Suchet. For those who aren't familiar with this quirky gentleman, he is Belgian (not French!) living in London and will readily tell you that he is the "greatest detective that ever lived!" One of Agatha Christie's finest character creations.

A QUOTE TO REMEMBER: 

"I have given Christ countless reasons to not love me. None of them has changed His mind."

Paul Washer

A TO DO LIST FOR TODAY: The greatest thing about retirement is that I can start the day without a "To Do" list if I want to. Although today, I do have a Christmas gift to work on.

Friday's Fave Five (done Saturday)

 

It's been ages since I posted on Susanne's Living to Tell the Story and I've missed it. It's been a challenging year for me and sometimes it was difficult to see the blessings that were all around me. And those are the times when I needed to list them, to remind myself that I am blessed. So here I am!

This week was full of surprises and blessings. It was my birthday week!

1. Lunch and a card:  Barbara and I were finally able to get together for lunch and she blessed me with one of her beautiful handmade cards!

Some of my favorite colors and it's so pretty! As only she can do. We had a wonderful lunch and time of catching up. We usually try to get together once a month, but we were overdue for this one! 

2. Birthday blessings:  My day was full of birthday greetings by phone, by text and Face Book. In the evening, my son Mike and daughter-in-love Steph took me out for some wonderful pizza! No photo of the pizza. It was so good; it didn't last long. They gave me an egg cooker which I had wanted. My usual breakfast consists of 2 soft boiled eggs and it's always a challenge of getting them just the way I like them. This wonderful gadget takes the guess work out of it. 

Part of my breakfast the next morning. Not a very inspiring photo but they were perfectly done!

3. My morning coffee: While I'm feeding Apollo first thing in the morning, my coffee is brewing. I usually only have one cup a day but it's essential for me to wake up and remember my name. Then while Apollo is eating, I sip and read. I generally go for flavored coffee with half and half although sometimes it's regular coffee with a flavored creamer. 

4. Book club annual reading: The Mitford Book Club on Face Book is such a joy to belong to. We read through a book at a time of the Mitford book series by Jan Karon and discuss the chapter for the week. Right after Thanksgiving every year, we do our annual reading of Shepherds Abiding - our 'official' Christmas Mitford read. Such a delightful story. Do you have books or stories that are traditional Christmas reading? My other choices are A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens and A Christmas Mouse by Miss Read.

5. Birthday yarn:  I have been drooling over yarn from Expression Fiber Arts for a long time. My daughter has been gently encouraging me to get into knitting and through her tutelage, I've learned the difference between worsted, DK, Sport and Fingering weights. I've learned to knit, purl, slip a stitch, yarn over . . . . it's been interesting. The beautiful hand dyed yarn from this company has definitely encouraged me further. It's a bit pricey but my daughter decided to gift me with some for my birthday.  

 This is from the Mirage Sport collection called "Still of the Night" and it's gorgeous. I don't mean to be an advertisement for the company but I'm just so excited to have some! It will be knitted into a lacy scarf and my daughter is going to knit one at the same time so that she can help me along the way. She also included in my package this beautiful embroidery project bag from the same company.

I hope you all are doing well and enjoying this blessed season we have entered in to. My biggest blessing has been the Gift that God gave us 2000 years ago. A baby born to be our Savior. 

Have a great weekend!