Christmas in February

Christmas in February?  Why not?  Sometimes the hectic, whirlwind, over-stretched, over-stressed feelings really put a damper on what we are really celebrating.  So stepping back and exchanging gifts with extended family later on is refreshing.  That's what happened this year ~ a delayed exchange.

I always love the gifts I get.  They are fitting for me.  I'm all about simple and sweet without all the fluff-n-stuff.  Fluff-n-stuff is nice, but sometimes it's irrelevant.  Simple and sweet means thought out for me specifically.  That's what touches me ~ that someone has listened to my needs and sometimes my wants.  ;).

I received a February gift that really spoke to me.  It wasn't a "want", nor was it a "need".  It was, however, geared specifically to me. It was a Willow Tree figurine, a "Generations" piece.  A grandmother, a daughter and a granddaughter comforted by a quilt.  Yes, this was me.  I love to make quilts and I love even more teaching my lovelies how to make them. Very fitting. Yes, very fitting indeed.   It was the note that came with it that made me do some serious thinking.  So, I guess, this post is more about the effect of this exchange rather than the timing of this exchange (although God's timing is always perfect).

The note that accompanied it simply stated:  "Crickett, When I saw this I instantly thought of you. You are the anchor in your family....even on the days you don't feel like you make a difference to anyone.  Love you more than you know, Donna"

A simple note with a profound statement.  I can assuredly say I don't feel at all like any anchor.  More often than not I feel as I've let my entire brood down.  I can't for the life of me see them tethering themselves to me for anything, let alone, stability.  I feel more like the buoy in the ocean, bobbing to and fro, insecure in where I'm placed. The only thing keeping me from drifting out to sea is The Anchor tethered to me. Perhaps my minuscule affect on my family has trickled it's way upward from The Anchor to the buoy to them. Perhaps.

What Are You?

Sometimes an early morning conversation sets the tone for the whole day.
Such was the case today.

Itty Bitty and I were sitting on my front steps waiting for the school bus.  She always has random thoughts in her little noggin.  Out of no where she tells me she heard pop music last night.  They (her family) weren't playing pop music, she heard it in the Village of Quantico. I feel my heart fluttering.  "Village".  What a descriptive word.  My mind immediately went to a cobblestone setting.

She proceeds to tell me she used to be a Townsman, but now she's a Villager.  Mommy, Effan, Rease, Helena and Annalynne are also Villagers. Mom-Mom, Pop-Pop, Ben,  Mr. Paul, Miss Carrwy,  Rease and Helena are Townsmen.  Well, she says, Rease and Helena are Villagers and Townsmen because they live there (little hand swings right) and here (other little hand swings left).  I can hardly stand it.  Of course MY imagination has little pointy caps or flat little beanies on everyone's head.

She then proceeds to tell me that maybe she's a Villager and a Townsman if her daddy lives in a town. And she thinks for a second and concludes that she's could be considered a Farmer too since Granny Bell lives on a farm.   Be still my heart. 

I put my Little Villager on the bus here in Town, waved goodbye and came in to ponder this morning's chat.  I knew I had to record this one for posterity.  I don't want to forget.  Ever.

But on a sad note, my Little Villager arrived back in Town after school with her jacket on.  It was only a gazillion degrees outside.  I don't say anything, but the minute she gets inside she wants me to take her temperature.  She's been coughing all day she says. I test her forehead, it's warm and her cheeks are flushed, so  I oblige her after she removes her shoes, visits the Little Girl's Room and washes her hands.  That gal had a temp of 101.4!  I asked if she had been cold or chilly today.  No, says she.  I had my jacket on.   Alrighty then.

I'm not sure she will ever know the imprint she's leaving on my heart.  The innocence of a child is the most refreshing thing you will ever experience.  I try not to change one bit of  her.  I love the way God made her.  In fact, I love the way God made all my family.  He knew them and formed them and I'm thrilled He did!

Sarah Sponda

I am writing this to let you know I am always thinking of you and the situations placed in your path.
I pray for you and your family to be able to wrap your heads around what may seem a mountain at your door.  But pray, I do.  I hug you guys daily with my heart and my mind.  I cry with you and sometimes I cry for you.   I understand.  I do.

It's hard to see the light at the end of the tunnel when you are standing in the middle of "darkness".  It is easy to become fearful of what lies ahead, where to place your next step.  We all know the light is at the end.  But what we don't know and what makes our journey stressful at times is what we will encounter in that tunnel and how we will handle it.   The good thing is. . . we don't always have to go through tunnels!  Sometimes we can walk on a bridge or dance in the rain or catch snowflakes on our tongues or just sit on a pier at the river and dangle our legs taking in all the good life has given us and anticipating the best that is yet to come.

I read once when someone asked, "Why me?", the appropriate question should be, "Why not me?" I feel God has chosen you because of your strength, your faithfulness, but mostly because of your willingness.  He knew who could carry the burden, who would pray without ceasing, and who would learn to lean unashamedly on Him.  You are the middle child for a reason. You are a fulcrum.  You are the pivot on which your siblings are balanced.  It is a big job with seemingly little rewards that you can see.  But the rewards are there ~ Every.  Single.  Day.  They are your little nuggets of hope and hugs and smiles.  *They are the family and friends God has strategically placed around and about you, near and far.  They give you heartfelt, but God honoring advice.  They love you.  They do. They stand on each side of you ~ holding you up during the battle you are fighting. They offer you rest when you get weary.  They may not always be there physically, but their hearts and prayers are.  You are "sandwiched" between those who love and care for you. 

Please do not feel you are walking this journey called Life alone. 
Please feel the love that flows your way.

I love you ~ more than you will ever know.

Mom-Mom

PS:  Some of my favorite verses/quotes:

"Fear is the devil's darkroom where he takes you to develop the negative."

Ps. 119:105 ~  "Thy word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path."

Exodus 17:11-12 ~  " 11. And it came to pass, when Moses held up his hand, that Israel prevailed and when he let down his hand Amalek prevailed. 12. But Moses hands were heavy and they (Aaron & Hur) took a stone and put it under him and he sat thereon:  and Aaron and Hur stayed up his hands , the one on the one side and the one on the other side, and his hands were steady until the going down of the sun."
 *we battle daily, Sarah.  We need Aarons and Hurs in our lives to help us prevail. 

"Needy"

I had an epiphany this morning.

My Boy had said to me something along the lines of: "a girl being needy".

I pondered these words as I was throwing laundry into the dryer.

I realized ~ women in general are a needy lot.

We need:
To love, be loved and feel love
To be independent but dependent
Affirmation, support and acknowledgement
Appreciation
Freedom to be ourselves, but belong to someone
To be creative
To cry, laugh and be quiet. Sometimes all at once.
Company and quiet time ~ alone.  Sometimes at the same time.
Affection
To play and be serious
To ponder all that is and all that will be.
To be emotional without judgment
To be protective and protected
To be soft and firm at the same time
To fix what we think needs fixing

Therefore, we are needy.

I'm sure the list could go on and on.
If you are a woman and think none of these things apply to you, well, I'm sorry for your loss.

I know without a doubt we needed men so we could be women.  Without them,  we aren't.
God didn't make a mistake in making Adam first.  He made Adam in His image and realized, I think, He needed an emotions roller coaster to be his help mate. No need letting him go  through life's ride all by himself.  God then needed Adam to make us. We needed Adam to exist.  There's no shame in that!  We then wrapped all our emotional mumbo jumbo around the corner post God provided us with.  Men may not understand, but that's ok. They just need to realize and know that fact ~ 'cause let's face it ~ it's a bigger picture than they can see. 

Go ahead ~ be needy (not cling-y).  Need the things that make you who you are.  Own them. Don't settle for what the world is trying to impress on you.  Look within and you'll see you already have all that and then some.  So don't get your britches in a bunch, be the woman you want to be and be thankful for those men in this world because without them, we wouldn't be.  They are our corner post, not our whipping post.  We are their equal, not their superior.
 
End of epiphany.

I'll get off my soap box now. 

The Little Turtle Dove

Last week I watched the Little Turtle Dove for the first time ~ all day ~ all week ~ by myself.  Well, mostly by myself and mostly all week.  I was beyond  nervous keeping her ~ not because I didn't know what to  do, but because I didn't know what she liked to do!  Fortunately God works all things out!  School was delayed Monday for the HS students due to testing so Reasy Peacey was here with me until 10:00.  Tuesday I had all the hooligans because school was closed due to the Primary Elections.  Wednesday I was on my own.  Thursday Reasy was here until 10:00 again due to HS testing. The girls filled me in as we went and all went well!   And Friday ~ her Daddy had her (I was nervous for him too!) 

Thank goodness she's an easy, delightful baby to be around!  Makes my job much more pleasurable.

Having Rease here helped me while I got the bus schedule figured out (again). She was my extra set of eyes and ears.  Not to mention it was a N. A. S. T. Y. week last week.  One day was just a deluge of rain!  And it was cold.  So cold I had to turn our heat back on.  I was afraid she would turn into a popsicle!

Itty Bitty left her lovie for her little sister to help her make a smooth transistion.  It's almost as big as she is!   It melted my heart.

I must not be doing too badly, she's smiling. . . . .

. . . . . and napping!  Brief as it was, it was a nap!

 

We are on week two now.  I think I have a system (very flexible system) in place.  We should do fine.

As long as The Little Turtle Dove is happy, Mom-Mom is happy.

Welcome, Little Bit of Stardust!

I just want to welcome A Little Bit of Stardust to our world here below!

He looks to be just perfect

From his little round head to his sweet little toes!

I can't wait to hold him, to smell his baby love

A perfect Bit of Stardust

Sent to us here from Heaven up above!

I'm so Happy for Josh, Bekah, Iris and Jacob!

A new member to their sweet family.

I love you guys!

Aunt Crickett

PS ~ I snagged that cute pic from your FB page and gussied it up a bit.

Hope you don't mind.  ;)

What Is A Full Heart?

I suppose a full heart can mean many things to many people.
There are many things that fill my heart to bursting.  They are never pre-determined by me.  The fullness hits me the  moment it touches my heart.  I don't look back and say "Oh, that was heartwarming."  No, I feel it instantly.  Simple things received by a simple person from those who are clueless as to how full they have filled my heart.

God has blessed me with some of the most awesome Grandchildren.  I can't think of one hateful thing to say about either of them.  Sure, they all have their "quirks", but that is what makes them ~ them.  Understanding that leaves a door open for heart warming, heart filling moments.  Ones that are least expected.

I've had two of my nine grandchildren call me their best friend.  Who does that these days?  I must say it caused me to pause and think.  I don't recall being anyone's "best friend" until then.  But I can't think of any higher honor than that.  It was, to say the least, very humbling. 

Then we have the one(s) who love the banter and tease of life. (That actually, pretty much, fits all of them).  The ones not afraid to joke with me.  The ones with the dry humor that I find hysterical.  The facial expressions, the inside jokes.  They all have that.  I love it. I love them.

Then of course we have the complimentary souls.  The ones who won't let me grow old.  They defy my age. They push me to my limit. Sometimes it's painful, but so worth the effort.  They remind me of what being young is.  In my heart, in my mind and in my spirit. 

I truly can't imagine my world without these guys.  Sometimes just thinking about them makes me cry. That's how full my heart is with them.  That is the impact they have on me.  They may never know that moment when my tank is filled, but God does.  And I know He will bless them along the way.  I pray they may experience that fullness, but most importantly be able to recognize the reason their hearts were warmed.

That's it.  Short.  Sweet.  Simple.

Fall Is In the Air

Fall is upon us
I feel it in the air
It is slowly marking it's territory
But ~  not quite everywhere.

The evening sky is shades of pink
The morning sky as well
The leaves show hints of color
But time is yet to tell.

Not long all green will fade away
Upon Nature's changing land
Her canvas will host warm new colors
At the touch of her Master's hand.

Gold, red, yellow, brown
Just to name a few
The mixture of all these shades
Will wash the land with lovely hues.

Breathtaking will the landscape be
Blazing like flames upon the earth
Then to fizzle to a gray
Preparing Nature for rebirth.

But until that time has arrived
We will bask in the warmth of it all
Watching as Nature gives to us
Glorious fireworks we call Fall!

Johnny Appleseed

It seems that even as we get older we never lose the ability to be amazed at the things Nature throws our way.  And so it is with My Boy.  He's well into his 20's but can still find a curiosity in the simplest of things.

Back in late Spring, early Summer "Johnny" was enjoying his daily routine of an apple, a banana and a glass of OJ.  Simple enough.  Boring enough.  But Nature threw him a tidbit.  She gave him two seeds in his apple that were already germinating.  It never ceases to amaze me the little surprises that come along. 

Being of the curious nature, "Johnny"  promptly removed them and placed them on a damp paper towel and then placed them in a baggie.  He let them grow there until he was confident they would survive in a pot.

Speaking of pots, don't you just love these?   

He fusses over his little trees  like a mother hen. 

Don't, I repeat, don't mess with his babies trees!

Here we are ~ nearing Fall.  I'll be curious to see how Mr. Johnny Appleseed  "over winters" them.
Curious indeed.

"Ellie Bean"

 

On April 2, 2015 this little masterpiece arrived to bless the lives of Dan and Carrie!

Is she not one of the most adorable Little Ladies you've ever seen? 

I'm so happy for them

 Side note:  That little Easter Bunny will be 6 weeks old tomorrow!

Slow down now, I say.  Slow down!

 

I'm also glad to see Nonna and Pappy finally getting on the Grandparent Wagon!  My side of the Family Tree was getting a little heavy laden!

 

Loves and hugs to all!

 

Just A Piece of the Puzzle

I love to work puzzles (not crosswords so much) and as it turns out, most of my squirrely girlie's like puzzles too!  Itty Bitty could sit with puzzles all day long.  And I have to admit, I think about letting her!  It is wonderful watching her analyze, twist and turn and finally place a piece where it belongs.

Using the box lid as a guide I taught her to work the border first.  It would give her something to connect to, as it were. Then we would move inward.  The pieces would be encompassed ~ forced to find their place. Next she learned to look for like colors, shapes, patterns and connecting parts.  The similar things allowed the "picture" to start to take focus and excitement followed.  And even though it was far from done she could see progress.  And so the process continued ~ observation, trial and then success.  When all pieces were placed in the correct spot and she stood back to admire the work, there was pleasure.  Pleasure in her work, even though there was trial and error, and pleasure with the end result.  She is now able to see past the fact that it took forever to work that pattern on the tiger because it all looked very similar. Or all the pieces of the same color giving her grief.  Perhaps a piece went MIA ~ only to find she was sitting on it.  All the frustration was lost in the pride she felt with a job well done.  Looking back at the big picture was rewarding and the joy, frustration and the "I don't want to do this anymore." attitude was overshadowed by what lay in front of her. The pieces.  All together.  As they should be.

It reminds me that my life is  just pieces of a puzzle. It is just much larger and sometimes more complex.  In any given day I find myself, more often than not, looking for where I belong. How  I'm going to get the pieces of my "puzzle" to connect together and not damage or misplace any of the surrounding pieces.  Most times I try not to put too much thought in it and just let the pieces fall in place naturally.  But, alas, Easy is never the name of my puzzle. 

Fortunately my "border" is done. I am encompassed by the Almighty Hand.  I am forced to find my place.  I look for like personalities (colors), interests (patterns) and fellow believers (connecting parts).  When I find my similarities my puzzle begins to take form.  And my process continues ~ observation (reaching out), trial (bad, unpredictable days, short temper, frustration, on and on. . .) and then success ~ joyful, blissful days, making it through the rain, dealing with disappointment and coming out on the other side.

But, unlike working a board puzzle, the only thing I can look back on is the "work in progress".  I won't ever see the finished puzzle this side of Glory.  God holds that box with the picture on it for me. 

I will get it some day. I will be able to look back despite the joy, the frustrations and the "I don't want to do this anymore." attitude and be overwhelmed at what lays in front of me.  The pieces. All together.  As they were meant to be.

But, not today.  Not today.

Home is Where Our Heart Is

"In My Father's house are many mansions; if it were not so, I would have told you.  I go to prepare a place for you."  John 14:2 NKJV

In the past years when I was working at an electrical distributorship I had the privilege of being inside many glorious homes.  Homes one could only dream of.  Huge spacious rooms, multiple baths, and a view of the water to die for. Mansions.  At least to me.  I would often ask myself why some were more fortunate to acquire such wealth and beauty while others just lived pay check to pay check.  I would dream of living in a home with such beauty.  Oh, the entertaining, the leisure, the comfort. I could almost taste it.  But it was a dream that was economically beyond my reach.  Unrealistic. So I would put it to bed.  Daydream upon occasion, and be done with it for a while. 

Then a passage from the Bible, one we read all the time ~ one everybody knows, seemingly took on a new meaning for me one day.   A meaning that has allowed me to put away any longing for (which is really envy dressed up) my earthly mansion.  

We are told of streets of gold, crystal rivers, jewels everywhere in Heaven.  What makes us think our "mansions" are going to be anything but breath taking.  Even the smallest of those abodes would probably put the most lavish home on earth, the whole planet, to shame.  It would not be able to hold a candle to the beauty of what God has built for us.  THAT was my eye opener.  Why had I not thought of that before?  Silly me.

I kinda kept that little tidbit of self discovery tucked under my turban.  Until one day.  One day at a social function at a breath taking home with such a view, a friend expressed the same desire of having such a home.  How wonderful it was to share with her my new take on that verse.  Of how God is going to give us way more than we could ever imagine on this earth.  Of course she knew that, but perhaps like me, it settled in what I was saying.  It will be mind blowing, if there's such a reaction in Glory!  Just mind blowing. 

So I shan't fret about my measly little abode here (let us remember, tho, measly to us may be ginormous to someone else).  Let us feather it, nest it, love it, and be content.  It is, after all, a gift from God and our responsibility to care for it. It will shelter us until it is time to move into our permanent home in Land of  Glory. 

Just my thought to share for the beginning of this new year.

The Monster Mile

Warning:  Definitely picture overload and potentially wordy. 

Some time ago Kelly won tickets to the Monster Mile from a country radio station.  She gave them to Bob.  He was thrilled.   But life being busy as it is he came down to the wire on the dates he had left to go.  So he chose this weekend.   All was well and good 'til this morning when he started doubting this escapade.  Worry will do that to you.  

Kelly, Ethan and the girls met us here at 8:30AM  (didn't even finish my second cup-o-joe) and we were off, on our way to the Monster Mile in Dover, DE!

We had to be there an hour early.  To add to the nerves, we had to stop for gas, coffee and grub for the girls.  The traffic was horrible and Ethan missed his turn into the track.  I think Bob was ready to turn back then but the boy and I held firm.

 

 

Upon arrival drivers/riders checked in at one station,

Already checked in ~ waiting in line. 
Nerves setting in.

while the fan club checked in and signed waivers on the other side.

 

 One shuttle took the drivers/riders,

 

Looks like he's walking the Green Mile
at the Monster Mile.

 

while another shuttle took the fan club members.

 

 I rode "shotgun".  This is the only picture I got.

 Once he banked the shuttle and I slid towards

the middle, I figured it was time to hang on for dear life!

 

No, the camera is not at an angle.  We are!

 

 As spectators we were able to go into the "pit area".  There were restrooms
and places to buy souvenirs and snacks.  The fan club could even sit in the
race cars before the laps if they wanted to.  Once our driver/rider
suited up and started his run we could watch from the building
roof top!  You could see them go all the way around.

 

Orientation

 

Bob had orientation along with the other driver/riders.

After orientation the riders went with the pros.

Then the drivers rode a couple laps with the pros

just to get the "hang of it".  Yep, that's was

the word on the street.

Pay attention boys and girls

The Golden Ticket

 

 

Pre-run:

Suiting up

Climbing in

Headin' out

I don't think he's sold on the idea any more.  I think IF anybody

had suggested he could quit he would have left a dust trail.

But, we were diligent in our pep talks and encouragements

('cause we weren't the ones loading up in that car!).

 

Now, for the big boy games! !

 

Check it out

 

 It's okay.  You'll do fine.  Just don't drive like an old lady! And.  . . remember ~
watch the pace car, don't get too close or too far behind,
don't hit the wall, stay off the asphalt,
stay in your designated area,
AND
watch the guy with the flag hanging over the track!
He is VERY important will let you know if
you mess up! ! ! !
All that said, go and have fun.
Don't worry.   Be happy.

Pose and Load

Start the Engine!!

And he's off!

 

No  turning back now! ! !

Comin' back around . . .

 





Coming into the pit area at the end of his 15 lap solo.

 It was really cool to see him coming along behind the pace car.  Yea, he had to have a pace car even though he drove by himself.  Everybody did.  Helps keep 'em safe.  :)

This was his pace car.

 

 

 

 

All in all it was a great morning.  Bob survived to tell about it. 

I'm so glad he went.

He can mark that one off his bucket list!

The weather was perfect ~ overcast and cool

It didn't start raining until after we left.

 

We topped off our excursion with lunch at a neat place called "Cheddars".

Good food!

 

Now we are in a food coma, chillin' on this rainy afternoon.

 

Thank you Kelly for making this happen.

Thank you Ethan for lunch.

Thank you girls for being good.

Thank you Ben for pushing your dad along.

And thank you God for a wondrous day!

 



Hope

I just finished reading my Kindred Spirit's blog.  I love her and her willingness to be right out there, up front, honest.  Unbeknownst to her, she challenges me in so many ways.

Most of the past few months I have felt like this:

That's Audrey under all those animals.  Just substitute me with her and every day life with the stuffed animals.  That would just about sum it up.  Life just piled right on top of me. 

Being reminded of how gracious, giving, understanding, willing and patient our God is makes that pile a little softer on my shoulders. It's not easy for me.  I am stingy with my problems.  No one can fix them but me.  No one understands but me.  No one cares about them but me.  I'm surprised God hasn't bonked me on the head with a brick by now.  But being reminded to pray diligently and earnestly helps me to "Let go and let God" handle them with me or for me.  It gives me Hope.

Hope.  My word for the year.

"But if we hope for that we see not, then do we with patience wait for it."
Romans 8:25

" . . . we are the clay . . . ."

"But now, O Lord,

You are our Father,

We are the clay, and You our potter;

And we are the work of Your hand."

Isaiah 64:8

 

 

 

 

Jenny painted this clay pot for me 14 years ago this past July.  Although she did not cast the pot she did, however, have a hand in the finished product.  I loved it.  It had bird houses around the pot with a scripture verse along the rim.  It no longer exists.  On Wednesday I asked Bob to bring down Itty Bitty's dresser drawers at his convenience so I could change out her summer clothes for winter ones.  (I'm just a little behind here)  I had the pot sitting at the foot of the stairs in a wicker pot holder.  He didn't clear it when he came down and the corner of one of the drawers caught it and sent the basket and the pot flying.  He offered to save the pieces, but it was beyond repair.  It would have taken a master to fit all those tiny pieces back, fill in the gap where the clay disintegrated and paint it back the way it was.  There was nothing he could do to make it perfect again.  It was beyond his ability.

 

I  have seen a few broken pots in my day.  Some beyond repair like my pot.  Some with just minor cracks and a chip or two ~ nothing that would affect its ability to do as it should.  And some that had just a broken piece that could easily be mended.  Not perfect as before, but almost unnoticeable.  I was free to choose to keep them or just toss them in the landfill.  Depending.  Depending on how badly broken they were.

We are different than the clay posts cast on an assembly line. Slight imperfections can be overlooked and will get labeled as "seconds".  Less impressive they are, but they can beautifully adorned so those imperfections would never be noticed.  Covered by paint or stain or some other artistic medium.  But their overall structure may be weak and vulnerable to everyday use.    

 

But us, we are perfectly cast by the Potter's hands. Just as Jenny's pot is signed, we each have the Potter's stamp somewhere on us or in us!   Even those that mankind may see as "seconds" or "culls" were deliberately and perfectly made.  We were made to withstand everyday use.  Not to buckle or bend under normal circumstances, and even when dilemmas challenge us, we are equipped to carry the weight.   

 

It is when an outside force, one unexpected, perhaps much stronger, takes advantage of us that we may become the broken vessel that may appear totally destroyed.  Broken beyond repair.  Left to be claimed by the garbage truck, tossed in the landfill of life.  That may be what the human eye sees.  But the Potter knows His handiwork. He knows the strength of the clay He used.  He knows repair is possible, even likely.  He is gracious like that.  He allows the observer to see not only the original piece of work, but the repair of the damaged vessel.  It is an amazing thing to see a broken vessel heal right before you eyes.  It is nothing short of a miracle.  A miraculous gift from an amazing Potter.

I am glad my Potter is not of this world.  I'm glad to know I would be doted over like a small child should I become broken. I'm glad to know my Potter will fix exactly what needs to be fixed. I'm glad I don't have to depend solely on my fellow man to fix all my cracks and dings and missing pieces, although they surely would if they could.   And if my vessel were to become so damaged that repair is beyond the question, well, then, I might just be dancing in Glory with a new, perfect body!

 

A Look Back at October Through Pictures . . . . .

I thought September flew by, but boy, oh boy, October was a blur!  Maybe it had something to do with the fact that I was gone for a third of the month.  Maybe it's just old age.  At any rate, it was here and gone before I could flip the page on the calendar!

So, here, in some cases in a blur, is October thru pics:



Only an Itty Bitty could stack a wobbly tower and not have it fall.
How does she do that?

We celebrated a birthday.

I finally deflated Dora after four plus months of
hanging around!  I've never seen a Mylar last this long.  It
was for Itty Bitty's birthday in May!

This was the original reason I was to be in the Land of Horses at the end of October.
Band Competition.

This is Hope doing her hoop thing ;)> .  She is going to be talented
like her older sister!

This is Sarah's Senior year in HS.  This was her last Guard competition.
Bittersweet.  That is her in the dress.
She had the solo part this year.
 She enters a portal to a different realm,
 only to become part of their world ~ for just a short time.
She was fabulous with the rifle!

"Should I leave?  No . . . I'll stay just a bit longer."


 

This is the reason I arrived a week early!  How can you say "No." to these little faces?  How?

Give me my heart back!  Now!
Never mind.  You may keep it.

 

Snug as a bug with his binky!
And cute little chapped cheeks, to boot!

 

Never too big for an exer-saucer!

L. O. V. E.   Nothing less.

Back home in time for Trick or Treating.
Our 80's gal, our Jelly Fish and an Itty Bitty Cow!

 

Dare I even say it's November?  How could it go any quicker?  Um, don't answer that!  PTL for cameras ~ even tho I'm a lousy photographer I get to keep the memories.  At least pictures don't fly by at break neck speed!  I can, at least, linger over them ~ well, for two minutes or so. 

Let's wait and see how November pans out.  Can I get a worthy post or two in before the end of the month?  Or is this a sign of things to come?

Sunshine On My Shoulders

Today was one of those rare days where I embraced being home all by myself.  The sun was shining, the weather was warm toasty, and it was perfectly peaceful and quiet.  I don't get these kinds of days too often anymore. Family keeps me busier than a one armed paper hanger in a wind storm!

So, just what did I do with all that extra time?  I used all that extra time to work on, and almost complete, a quilt for one of my gals.  I had the radio tuned to oldies, and when I say oldies, I'm talkin':  "The Wanderer", "I'll Cry If I Want To", "Love is a Many Splendored Thing" and so many more.  I would sew some, stretch some, dance some, sew some more, eat, sew, dance, sing a little,  and peruse the internet.  I took Audrey out to do her business so we could get some fresh air. Did I mention it was a little toasty out there?  And I stuck my hands in the pool (that we haven't closed up yet). Then we would come in a and get a treat and some iced tea and continue on.  And I had a chance to reflect ~ a LOT ~ today.  It was wonderful.

Near the end of the day John Denver's song, "Sunshine On My Shoulders" came on.  It was the perfect finish for the day.  As I was listening (I love his voice, by the way) I couldn't help but think how I would love to give everyone I know a day like I had today.  Not that it was incredible, but that it was just so relaxing.  Incredibly relaxing.  I think his words pretty much summed up the condition my spirit was in. 

So, here's my gift to you.   Just sit back, close your eyes, take calming breaths and let your cares ease away.

To Whom Much is Given, Much is Required

I've never had a verse stick in my head for so long.  About a week or so ago, totally out of the blue, there it was and here it still is.  I've tried to ignore it, but it just won't go away.

I remember the first time this verse was ministered to me for my benefit.  I was struggling with the financial responsibility imposed upon me by someone who had asked me to care for something.  Not that I minded caring for this item, mind you, I just didn't think all the financial burden should be mine. It agitated me, to say the least.  As I was pleading my case to Pastor Gore, he, in his infinite wisdom, shared this verse with me.  At least the second half:

Luke 12:48b ~ "But he that knew not, and did commit things worthy of stripes, shall be beaten with few stripes.  For unto whomsoever much is given, of him shall be much required: and to  whom men have committed much, of him they will ask the more." 

I got it! We weren't wealthy, but we weren't dirt poor either.  I could take care of that item.  I just felt imposed upon.  But understanding changed how I looked at the situation and I carried on.  God's Word is so clear.  Can I hear an "Amen"?

That was many years ago.  Things  have changed drastically for us here at the ol' home place.  We're not in the same boat we were in then.  As a matter of fact, our boat is more like a dingey these days.  We have no available green stuff.  Our home is bursting at the seams with kids and grandies, so space is nil. Hours in the day and days in the week are short and full.  I'm not sure what God is asking me to give. I don't know what I could possibly have that I can give or that anyone would need,  but He wants me to.  I know He does because this verse will not leave my head alone.  Will.  Not.  Clear.  As. A.  Bell. (not clear what I'm suppose to give, but clear that I'm to give something)

So I'm left pondering this verse and my responsibility to it. I am listening, I am looking, I am waiting.
What to do, what to do?

Aaron?   Hur?  

Vintage Vibe

I know you know that I love all things glass ~ and vintage (well, not ALL things vintage, but a good amount).  And I love finds, steals, gifts from family and friends and, aaand, a "shout out" from a kindred spirit on Pinterest!

Have you ever wanted something when you saw it?  Ogled over it?  Wanted it?  Couldn't afford it? Never got it, but it was always in the back of your mind?  I would say, "One day. . .. one day, I shall have one".  Well.  A month or so ago I was playing with paper at Dolly's house and before I left she sent Miss Sarah to the attic to fetch something.  Down came the following:

 

"Would you like this?" she asks.  Say what?  Be still my beating heart!  Why, yes, YES I WOULD!
You could have knocked me over with a feather.  Oh, Dolly!  Thank you so, so much! Insert Happy Dance! Ahhh. . . . chippy love!   I have pondered for a while as to how to use it. 
I'm sure the perfect thing will come to mind, but if not, I love 'er the way she is!

Then a couple weekends ago the Lion's Club here in town had a "community yard sale" in their building.  I hemmed and hawed over whether or not to go and finally caved around 11:30AM.  I know from experience that all things good and pretty and valuable are usually gone in a matter of minutes.  So I figured I was just going on a scenic tour of the place.  (I've  never been in their building before.)

But someone, aka: God, was watching out for me and my addiction!  Just look at what I came home with (all for under five buckeroos!):

Not one, but two, serving dishes!  $1.00 each.  They are pretty good sized.  Larger than a relish tray. The pattern is called "Star of David".  Told ya He was watchin' out for me.  Used them on the 4th.
Two little candle holders that I'm going to turn into pin cushion bases.  They are heavy as lead and very, very sparkly. And they were only a quarter each.
And lastly, (Heidi Jane ~ I can't believe it!) a tiny little Banana bowl!  That's right.  A.  Banana. Bowl.  It's a pressed diamond cut kind of pattern.  Cute.  Shiny. And tiny.  For ~ hold on ~ two smakeroos! Two!   Ahhh. . . . . Happy Jig! Happy Jig!

On our Annual 4th of July get together my sister surprised me with these:

Like my old Maxwell House coffee jars, they are vintage and they came from Dad's. (All but the little one in front ~ she picked it up at a thrift store).  The star lid on the little one belongs on one of the bigger jars, but the OCD in me wanted consistency.  (go ahead and laugh) The lids even have the old cardboard seals still in them!  I asked her why she gave them to me and you know what she said?  Because I said I liked them and if she ever got rid of them I would like them.  Now, how's that for sharing?  I'm going to use them on patriotic holidays for sure!  Already have it planned out in my noggin.  I love the scene on them ~ a kitchen counter with a window, a coffee mill, a coffee pot, a jar of coffee, utensils, a loaf of sliced bread and a vase of flowers.  Love it!

And then, today.  I'm on Pinterest and see I'm mentioned in a pin by my Kindred Spirit on the West Coast of this here United States of America.  She thought of little ole me when she pinned this:

It's an old Coke carrier like the one I have, only this gal (http://www.infarrantlycreative.net) put shelves in hers to hold pretties.  She even used black, white and red accents!  Can we say: "Oooooo, ahhhhh"?   It was sweet of Christie to think of me after reading my blog post about my Coke carrier.
Even sweeter that she remembered!

Life is too short not to enjoy things around us. It's too short not to share your love, your heart, your talent, your spirit and the things that connect us to one another.  Every day it seems I'm reminded of those that God has led into my life, be it for the long haul or for short stints.  I'm grateful for each and every one, even if I fail to say it.  I feel sometimes I am a miserable friend.  Sometimes I fall short ~ but mostly I just fall.  Flat.

Forgive me?
I love you guys!

Little Boy Blue

Sometimes life hands you a squirrely basket.  Sometimes that basket is overflowing with nutty situations.  And then, sometimes, life  hands you a gift basket.  I got a gift basket on the third of this month.  Quite unexpected. But most assuredly appreciated.

I got to fill an empty seat heading to Kentucky.  It was a last minute thing ~ like the day before the trip last minute ~ and the best part is the kids ironed out the details:  mostly the babysitting part of my life.  The rest was easy peasy with only one stipulation ~ I couldn't, repeat, couldn't, be a backseat driver.  No way.  No how.   I was gently told I would be put to the side of the road.  (tee-hee).  I don't know what makes Ben think I'm a backseat driver.  No earthly idea.  I eagerly promised with some hesitation in my mind, 'cause ya know, it's hard giving up control.  Hard I tell ya, but the reward at the end would be well worth minor heart attacks in the back.  Besides, I had a great opportunity to read  (when I wasn't eyeing the road).

I made Jenny promise not to tell the girls I was coming. I wanted it to be a surprise ~ and you never know, things could've gone wonky here before I got the chance to leave.  Then hearts would have been broken all the way around. And I would have been ticked, and cried all week.  No one wants me in that situation.  No one.

I must say the secret kept well and the looks and reactions of the girls was as priceless as it gets.  I would not have traded those moments for all the tea in China!  Three squealed and one broke down in tears.  Chokes me up just reliving the whole thing. Love knows no boundaries when it comes to family.  It's always an open book with tons of chapters to be written.  And I love to write.

I got to spend Thursday and Friday with Hope, Erica, Alicia, Alaina and Little Boy Blue!  Can I just tell you he took my heart right out of my chest the moment I laid eyes on him.  He still has it.  Just when you think you can't squeeze another ounce of love from your body God hands you this:

 A small bundle of Heaven sent love.  Fresh and sweet.  Gentle as a spring breeze.

 

 

He has every single one of his Aunties wrapped around that tiny little finger of his.  He couldn't grunt
without being picked up. If he stretched, someone was there. And he certainly didn't have to cry for more than three seconds before being rescued, nuzzled and soothed.  Yes, yes, we think we will keep him.  For. Ev.  Er.

I have more to write about my quick but wonderful trip.  I  shall do that soon.  Very soon.  But for now I must run and do something un-fun like venturing to Wally World.  And we ALL know how I feel about that place. 

But before I go and before I forget, I want to thank Kellifer for borrowing vacation time so I could go, I want to thank Jenny for asking her, and I want to thank Benjamin for taking me. 

It was a wonderful trip.