THIS AND THAT

Well, the National Weather Service says were in for a treat.... It's cloudy this morning and 58 degrees. Nice.. but not what the NWS is predicting.. They say high winds, rain and then cold snap..by tomorrow. Today it should be about 66 degrees. I have been really enjoying the weather lately.. drizzly or not.

Our new roof is on, so rain can come without concern now. It's a very conservative change to the appearance of the house.. looks great. Not sure I'll post pictures ... at least not today. Perhaps later this weekend. I'm off the weekend and looking forward to it. I need to get things cleaned up better. I'm way behind.

Today is usually my day at the office.. but my assistant is covering as she does every last Thursday. She is a blessing to me in that if I become ill, I don't have to reschedule 9-10 patients like I used to do. The program has grown so big, it's really impossible to try to do that. I will be going in after lunch today to organize for next Thursday and help out where I can.

So.... not much news here today.. just need to get ready for work. It's nice not to be rushed to get going.
Tie everything down that isn't already..... it's windy outside.

Pray for us.. and our leaders.. our nation.. family and friends. As always, we are thankful for you.

CONGRATULATIONS, CORY

hey !! Congratulations to Cory !!! He is the proud owner of a 6 point buck .. !!

THE ROOFERS HAVE ARRIVED

Oh, happy day...... the roofers have arrived and are up and working on our roof. WOOHOO!!! Lots of banging and crashing sounds.. hammering... hmmmm. I'd go out to take a picture, but the scaffold is set up at the front door and I don't want to interrupt them.

VACATION IS OVER...BACK TO REALITY

Oh.. what a great vacation I had last week. It would be hard to beat it. Family all around me.. pictures, playing with kids, great food, great fellowship.... we seemed to party for at least 4 days straight. The finale should have been going to church yesterday, but Saturday marked vacation end, and it was my weekend to work.. so I did.
I had the entire department to myself. It wasn't bad. I spent a lot of time reading medical blogs.. taking off orders.. I think I only had one doctor in all evening. Can't blame them- it was a simply gorgeous day.
2 discharges and 3 admissions and a few orders otherwise made for a pleasant evening. I had a lot of empty beds.
Today I would guess that we will fill up. It's unusual for my department to have a cold bed on the unit.

No roofers today. The supervisor said the crew was all hunters. I guess so. Hope it doesn't rain.
We are prepared though- the cars are all parked on the other side of the driveway.

I'm gainfully employed again today and have slept in till 9am.. 8 hours of sleep. I don't usually get that much, but getting up at 6am left me really tired last evening. I needed the sleep.
Wendell was up a while ago, but is now back to bed and sleeping again. He does a lot of that.
He's on layoff now. He'll have lots of time on his hands.

Aunt Mary Jane is home. Praise the Lord!! She is doing well so says the email I got. We need an update on Uncle Bob and on Janet too.
Keep praying. We love you all.

BAMBI !! LOOK OUT !

If I could, I'd stay inside today. Deer hunters seem to be everywhere.. not to mention coming home last night and having to go pretty slowly due to the deer herd on the move. Lots of gunshots this morning. I feel like I live in NYC or something. (no offence, NY)..
As I reconsider, I think it was around November 1st that I started noticing more and more deer at night when I was driving home. They are pretty thick in a 3 mile radius from my house, but I also have seen many at the side of the road along Route 8. These ones won't have to worry about hunters.. they had their tangle with cars/trucks already and are fatalities.
I appreciate the deer hunters. They keep the deer population under control. We used to be a 100% farm area, but now, with 8-10 new houses on our road alone, we have become more residential and the deer have a rough time finding food in the fall/winter. They used to have a lot more territory to roam and graze, but no more. They select our garden usually- the proof is in the hoof prints all over it.
John and Mandy have their property posted. It had never been posted before, as our family had so many hunters. BUT.. there is one problem with hunting in our little woods. Not only is it a small area of woods, but the hunters seem to have forgotten the courtesy of asking if they can hunt here. Last year about this time, Wendell came home to find an unfamiliar truck sitting at the side of the driveway- in the yard. A while later a hunter came out of our woods. Wendell stopped him and asked what he was doing. He said someone told him he could hunt here. Wendell said 'yes, but it is only courtesy to ask the owner first'. He hasn't been back.
But John said he had the same thing happen a couple weeks ago...... so it's posted and we support that.

When Wendell and I were first married, I wanted to go out deer hunting. He agreed. He has done a bit of hunting, but hadn't been out for a few years. I don't think he did it out of sheer huntsmanship.. I think it was because his Dad liked to hunt and the deer were plentiful. So he took me out one day- bright and early.. as a matter of fact, it was in the little woods behind our present house. He sat me down and said.."if you hear a shot and I yell , be ready.".. so I sat for some time watching and waiting for dawn. All of a sudden I heard the shout- "It's coming your way!!" I never saw it. I jumped up and as I brought my rifle up, I shot between my feet in my excitement. Okay. That was it for deer hunting for me. No harm done, but it's not as easy as I'd imagined.
When Wendell was in the Army, he had many pins on his uniform- for sharpshooter and marksman.. he's good.
But I would never be any of the above. Sigh...

There goes the gun shots again.. BAMBI !!! LOOK OUT !!

ORDER IN THE COURT !!!!

This came in my email this morning.. have a laugh...thanks, Sandi..

In a Court of Law. . . You said what?!
These are from a book called Disorder in the American Courts, and are Things people actually said in court, word for word, taken down and now published by court reporters who had the torment of staying calm while these exchanges were actually taking place. It's worth reading to the end!

ATTORNEY: Are you sexually active?
WITNESS: No, I just lie there.
________________________________
ATTORNEY: What is your date of birth?
WITNESS: July 18th.
ATTORNEY: What year?
WITNESS: Every year
._____________________________________
ATTORNEY: What gear were you in at the moment of the impact?
WITNESS: Gucci sweats and Reeboks.
______________________________________
ATTORNEY: This myasthenia gravis, does it affect your memory at all?
WITNESS: Yes.
ATTORNEY: And in what ways does it affect your memory?
WITNESS: I forget.
ATTORNEY: You forget? Can you give us an example of something you forgot?

_____________________________________
ATTORNEY: How old is your son, the one living with you?
WITNESS: Thirty-eight or thirty-five, I can't remember which.
ATTORNEY: How long has he lived with you?
WITNESS: Forty-five years.
_____________________________________
ATTORNEY: What was the first thing your husband said to you that morning?
WITNESS: He said, "Where am I, Cathy?"
ATTORNEY: And why did that upset you?
WITNESS: My name is Susan.
______________________________________
ATTORNEY: Do you know if your daughter has ever been involved in voodoo?
WITNESS: We both do.
ATTORNEY: Voodoo?
WITNESS: We do.
ATTORNEY: You do?
WITNESS: Yes, voodoo.
______________________________________
ATTORNEY: Now doctor, isn't it true that when a person dies in his sleep, he doesn't know about it until the next morning?
WITNESS: Did you actually pass the bar exam?
____________________________________
ATTORNEY: The youngest son, the twenty-year-old, how old is he?
WITNESS: Uh, he's twenty-one.
________________________________________
ATTORNEY: Were you present when your picture was taken?
WITNESS: Would you repeat the question?
______________________________________
ATTORNEY: So the date of conception (of the baby) was August 8th?
WITNESS: Yes.
ATTORNEY: And what were you doing at that time?
WITNESS: Uh....
______________________________________
ATTORNEY: She had three children, right?
WITNESS: Yes.
ATTORNEY: How many were boys?
WITNESS: None.
ATTORNEY: Were there any girls?
______________________________________
ATTORNEY: How was your first marriage terminated?
WITNESS: By death.
ATTORNEY: And by whose death was it terminated?______________________________________
ATTORNEY: Can you describe the individual?
WITNESS: He was about medium height and had a beard.
ATTORNEY: Was this a male or a female?
______________________________________
ATTORNEY: Is your appearance here this morning pursuant to a deposition notice which I sent to your attorney?
WITNESS: No, this is how I dress when I go to work.
______________________________________
ATTORNEY: Doctor, how many of your autopsies have you performed on dead people?
WITNESS: All my autopsies are performed on dead people.

______________________________________
ATTORNEY: ALL your responses MUST be oral, OK? What school did you go to?
WITNESS: Oral.
______________________________________
ATTORNEY: Do you recall the time that you examined the body?
WITNESS: The autopsy started around 8:30 p.m.
ATTORNEY: And Mr. Denton was dead at the time?
WITNESS: No, he was sitting on the table wondering why I was doing an autopsy on him! ____________________________________________
ATTORNEY: Are you qualified to give a urine sample?
WITNESS: Huh?
____________________________________________
And the best for last
ATTORNEY: Doctor, before you performed the autopsy, did you check for a pulse?
WITNESS: No.
ATTORNEY: Did you check for blood pressure?
WITNESS: No.
ATTORNEY: Did you check for breathing?
WITNESS: No.
ATTORNEY: So, then it is possible that the patient was alive when you began the autopsy? WITNESS: No.
ATTORNEY: How can you be so sure, Doctor?
WITNESS: Because his brain was sitting on my desk in a jar.
ATTORNEY: But could the patient have still been alive, nevertheless?
WITNESS: Yes, it is possible that he could have been alive and practicing law.

BIRTHDAYS

With all the excitement around here.. I missed a couple birthdays. I sure hope they were happy ones..
Here comes the
BELATED BIRTHDAY WISHES !!!

HAPPY BELATED BIRTHDAY
DORIS
- her birthday was yesterday

and
HAPPY BELATED BIRTHDAY
CHUZ !!
His birthday was on Thanksgiving Day !!

126 years ago today, my Grandfather Imm was born in England.
His parents brought him to the US as a young lad, and he grew up here.

THIS IS THE DAY........

It's 45 degrees with a promise of a sunny 64 today!! Yippee ! I have to remind myself this won't last long and enjoy every moment of each beautiful day.
* I can't believe I have to go to work today..... my vacation is over. Sigh............. I did have a wonderful time.
* Valentines will be leaving this morning for their house.. We have partied for days with them.. and had a great visit.
* Next stop- Christmas.. it's only a little over 3 weeks away.. AAACCKKK!!!
* This is also the day I get back solidly on my diet- I'm behind on this

Have a beautiful day!

GIRLS DRESS UP FOR A PARTY

The girl cousins all dressed up for the party last night. Joyce had a beautiful pink dress in honor of her baby sister to come..and Aunt Wendy and Aunt Mandy did her hair for her... it was so beautiful.





Esther and Gaylie had new dresses too.. and very pretty hairdos.. complements of Aunt Mandy and their Mom.
The ribbons made it so festive.

Before we left, the girls posed with their Dad......

PREPARING THE FOOD

Last night the family had a baby shower for Amy and Paul.. men and boys were invited, and we had a meal and then fun and games. Jane and Joyce worked hard for weeks preparing for the shower. It was Joyce's desire to host this for her Mom.


John and Mandy got a chocolate fountain and brought all kinds of things to dip in the fountain.


Wendy helped John get the fountain moving.. but it suddenly stopped pumping- the auger broke and so we simply dipped into warm chocolate..........mmmmmm........ yummy........uh...yeah.. diet went out the window last night.

Everyone brought something for the food table- Wendy brought the chicken salad and croissants.. Sharon brought veggie pizza and fruit salad.. and that delicious punch ! I made broccoli salad and Joyce made the pink cheesecake with strawberry hearts.

GETTING STARTED

Our hostesses , Jane and Joyce got things started.. Great job, ladies !

BALLOON RELAY

The balloon relay was interesting. Paul and Cory were the captains of their teams and the kids had a fantastic time running up to get a balloon, breaking it, and then reading and following the directions inside.

DRESS THE BABY BEAR

Dress the baby bear was fun.. adults and then kids got in the act. The trick is cooperation, as you have to use one hand only from each partner.


Jane and Joyce gave final directions to the first 2 couples.. Cory and me vs Paul and Amy..they won.


Daniel and Paul watched the next group- Mandy and JJ vs John and Keith- the girls won, but the guys were about hysterical.. using teeth to help diaper..



Joyce and Paul tried their hand at it.. vs Isaac and Daniel- Joyce & Paul won that round.

BLACK FRIDAY

It's black Friday.. the day after Thanksgiving when the official 'kick off' of the Christmas season begins. I refuse to be sucked into it.. I don't want to be out there among the crazies who wait at the stores doors at 6AM for a toy they think they can't live without if it only costs $2459.99 !! What are they thinking? After a full day of giving thanks, we suddenly turn into greedy monsters.

Well, Joyce is here today to help make cheesecake for tonite. It'll be her masterpiece- I'm here to assist. She wants it to be pink for her baby sister who will be born near Christmas Day. I still have gifts to wrap for her.- tonite is the baby shower.

I'll be posting more later, but for the morning... this be it.

HAPPY THANKSGIVING DAY!!

This is the day my country thanks the Lord for the plenty that we experience 364 days of the year- Would that we would ALL be thankful EVERY day instead of just one day a year. Scripture is full of suggestions/commands to give thanks to the Lord.
What is your menu plan for today? Anything unusual? Traditional? We always have turkey, even though I can't eat it- I am intolerant of it. I'd rather have chicken anyway, and last year we hit on shrimp which makes me really happy. We have 2 trays of shrimp to take this afternoon to Keith and JJ's. I can remember years gone by when for years we had parsnips- not my favorite by a long shot, but we grew them in the garden for just that purpose.
JJ says we are also having ham this year- wow!!!
No Thanksgiving dinner is complete without pie.. it's probably the only time of year we have pie and /or pumpkin dessert for sure. I bought Cool Whip, and so did Charlie- it is his job to supply pie this year, and Amy is to bring her delicious pumpkin pie dessert.
I remember growing up that when I woke up in the morning, Dad had the Macy Thanksgiving Day parade on. We loved that- even before color TV. Uh-oh... showing my age here...hehehehe
Well.. it's about time for me to hit the shower and get dressed.
I thank the Lord for you in my life and pray for His continued blessings and mercy with us. I'm thankful for Wendell and that God has spared him to extend his life for us. He is precious to me and to the family.
Pray for peace today and in all the world- pray for God's spirit to rest in hearts of the enemies of our land and in our hearts too.

VACATION DAY #5 COMES TO A CLOSE

Vacation day #5 is fast coming to a close. It was a fabulous day..but too short. Wendy spent most of the day baking cookies while I spent my day enjoying the children. We took a walk outside and looked for dried corn in the garden, but found none. Isaac and Esther chased the chickens a while- poor hens are sluggish these days- Charlie says only 3 eggs for the day. It's the time of year when the days are short and the weather is cold, and the chickens won't be producing like they did all summer.
Supper was delicious.. Mandy brought home pizza and salad.. WOW! We sat the kids on a big comforter in the living room and watched "Over the Hedge" while they ate. I made the cole slaw for tomorrow's big meal.
What a lovely day we had.
Today is happily Wendell's last scheduled day of work for the season. He says he wants to go back next year, so that will be something to work for over the winter.
Gotta get some rest.. tomorrow comes fast..

HAPPY THANKSGIVING TO YOU ALL AND
MAY GOD BLESS YOU RICHLY

I'M THANKFUL

I have a couple minutes here while I finish my morning coffee. My headache is going away slowly- I'm thankful.
That's not what I had in mind to blog, however.. there are others for whom I'm thankful.

Years ago I had a back injury- pulled muscles basically. My first PT was Rick and we have been friends since that time. I've always been thankful for Rick- it was he who showed me how fun exercise can be. And he's just a really nice guy. It wasn't till about 2 years ago that he introduced me to his wife Sandi. We are so much alike and have been best friends ever since. A day isn't a day without some word from Sandi. I'm thankful for that friendship and know how blessed I am. I have looked back many times over the years and wondered why Rick was placed in my life, and now I know. The time had to be right for his wife to enter my life. Between Wendy and Sandi.. these 2 know about everything there is to know about me........ I hope it's all good.

I'm so thankful for family- Nicki and Betsy and Annabelle at one time.. with Jane- we formed a sort of sisterhood. We still are immensely close and communicate via emails or phone when we can. Their families are our extended families. For Bob, Joe & Arlene, Ken and Sandy, Dave & Agnes, Dieter .. precious extensions of our family. Though we aren't as close.. I'm thankful for Janet and Candy too..
For my Dad's family.. Uncle Bob and Aunt MaryJane, Aunt Dorothy and Uncle Babe.. and their families.. for Doris and her family.. so many cousins and wonderful people.
Jim and Mimi, Joy and Jim, and Dick.. Wendell's family.. so very thankful for them in our lives- really wonderful examples for us. Their children - my buddy Rob. I'm grateful to belong to this family.
For John and Sean, Bob, Tara, Keith.. I'm glad to know them and love them all dearly.
So..... WOW !!!! I have a lot of family.. and I'm thankful for them all !! I can't begin to mention all the names.
I'm off to the office now to check on my Remicade supplies for next week and do the necessary paperwork.
I love that job.. I'm thankful God placed the doctor in my life too, and provided employment there for me.
Love you all.............More things/people to be thankful for tomorrow........ wait and see..

OH, BOY IT'S COLD!

Brrrrrrr..... it's cold. I woke up with a splitting headache this morning- wonder if it's my new mask causing the problem.
Well..... today's trivia is:
This is the day that former President John F Kennedy was assassinated. I was in my Chemistry class in high school when the news broke. We all were sent home shortly thereafter. It was a sad time for our nation. Where were you in 1963 when this occurred?

1976- HAPPY BIRTHDAY CATHY !! The comic strip Cathy by Cathy Guisewite was born that day for all of us to enjoy 30 years ago today ! Cathy is my very favorite- I associate with her so much.

Gotta get on the move.. my Valentines will be here around lunchtime, and I'm not even dressed yet.
Have a fabulous day.. I'll check in later with VACATION DAY #5.
God bless you all richly today.

THEY ARE HERE! THEY ARE HERE!

I feel like Paul Revere.. warning the citizens..'The British are coming!' In this case it is our Valentines.
Tomorrow we will get to see them. I'm going to hit the sack pretty quick.

VACATION DAY #4

I got up fairly early this morning, got washed, dressed and made the coffee. I sat down to relax with my first cup when there was a lot of noise outside. It was a fork lift delivering shingles and supplies for our roof! There it sets in the front yard right in front of the door. It's okay.. anything to make life simpler for the roofers. They will be here likely tomorrow. I expect a crew bright and early. They say it will be done in one day.
Hooray!!
I had something curious happen to me today.. I went to the local mini mart to get gas in my car and when it was done pumping it read out 7.777 gal and the bill was $17.57.. When I went in, I commented on this rash of 7's, and she yelled and nearly fainted.. odd. She said she checked the gallons in that pump this morning and it was 777 gallons.. and then she yelled "It's gonna hit!!!".. I laughed. "You are crazy if you don't play that number" she said. I smiled and explained that I don't believe in luck and I don't gamble- And I don't. I trust God to supply all our needs whatever they are. Sometimes it's hard and I wonder just what He has in mind. I think of it as sort of like when you were a child and your dad packed you into the car but didn't tell you where you were going.. Anyone remember those times? You didn't know the destination, but Dad was driving and so it had to be somewhere really great.. and that's how I look at the control God has over my life. I know the ultimate destination but sometimes the roads I walk to get there are really strange to me. But it's always good in the end.

Anyway.. I cleaned house today.. didn't get done, but even John had to admit I'd made a dent in it. There was obvious change.
Later, when Mandy got home, we went out to get groceries for Thursday and Friday- we got everything home and safely put away.
Wendy just called.. right now they are at JJ and Keith's house. Finally they are here. Let the fun begin..

Lots to pray for today.. Amy has hip pain.. please remember to pray for her- she's about 35 days from delivery.
Janet had her surgery- doing okay as of last word.. Aunt Mary Jane may be home for the holiday..Give thanks big time for these things.. Remember Nicki and Uncle Bob too.. Give thanks that Valentines arrived safely.
Little David is under the weather.. and Daniel too.. Pray for swift recovery
Wendell is still struggling with a chest cold- continue to pray for him also.
I'm thankful for you..
Tomorrow? more things to be thankful for.. you'll have to wait to find out

VACATION DAY #3 COMES TO A CLOSE

Tomorrow is the day our Valentines arrive from the NY area. WOOHOO!! Everyone is excited. They won't arrive till late and will be staying at Keith and JJs house. The room is now ready for them.

Today I took my local grandchildren (3 out of 4) shopping for Christmas. I gave them a limit to spend, and they went out with a list of 4-5 people to buy for on a piece of paper. Each one was responsible for buying a gift from all of them to whomever was on their personal list. The results were wonderful. They really are super shoppers..well, for the most part. They were thoughtful about their purchases, and more than once I heard them sigh and say "oh,no..I'm over budget"..and put an item back so they could buy something else.. hehehe
At the end of shopping, I told them each to select the gift wrap they wanted and tags too. They didn't choose the expensive ones thankfully, but what they got was grand! I loved all of the choices. On the way home I stopped at BK and got them supper. They had a big job ahead- wrapping their packages and labeling them as they went. I must say, they did do well. They were still wrapping when Mom and Dad arrived to take them to their classes tonite. We discussed the fact that they would take their gifts home with them, but had to put them away carefully in a hiding place till Christmas. They sure were excited. This was Treat of the Month for them. I need to do a project or two with the NY grandkids when they get here- I'm prepared. Perhaps in the spring I'll go for a visit and we'll go shopping for their new baby brother when he arrives.
Well, it was a great day.. we've accomplished a lot today and I'm pleasantly tired. Day #4 coming up tomorrow- it's get ready day.. shopping for groceries needed for Thanksgiving and the baby shower. Got my list ready- Mandy and I will go when she gets home from work tomorrow evening. In the mean time, I'll be cleaning up my craft stuff and laundry from the living room.
Going to bed.. ahhhh...sweet sleep awaits.

UH.. SNOW ON MY CAR

Oh, boy.. there is snow.. appreciable snow , on my car this morning. I just looked outside. There is next to none on the ground, but the cars will have to be brushed off before going anywhere today. It's 34 degrees out there- the high is to be 36 ! Well, it isn't a blizzard, and it's not a lot.. and it's not 34 below zero.. I'm thankful.

I'm heading to JJ's this morning to see what I can do to be of assistance to her. Sorry, Keith, plumbing is not in my list of things I do well. But I can vacuum and dust. I am thankful for JJ and Keith. I ask and they do all in their power to be helpful to Wendell and me. Our children are a blessing.

I'm thankful for my week of vacation- today I'm also planning to take grandchildren shopping by myself. We have some things to get before Christmas and for the upcoming shower for Amy. I'll be taking them to supper this evening, and then depositing them at their classes later.

I'm thankful for my siblings. They are the most wonderful people in the world. Jane is so understanding of my quirks and is my resource person when I am in a quandary about any issue. She has so much insight. Thanks, Jane. Charlie keeps the grounds looking good around here with gardening and then his girls give us endless eggs.
He's always willing to help out when needed. Bill and Carol, though we don't see them often, are so appreciated in many ways. Their generosity is unsurpassed.

Looking to a busy and beautiful day even if it's snowing.. Pray for Nicki that her next treatments will be effectual, for Janet as she looks to more surgery this week, and for Wendell too- he has called off work today with his chest cold. And while you are in prayer, remember to give thanks for all YOUR blessings!

VACATION DAY #2

This was a wonderful relaxing day. I got up and got myself to church- always refreshing to worship the Lord among His people and hear a sermon that is so solidly based on scripture. Thanks, Vince.
After church, I went to lunch with Paul and Co. ... to King's .. could you tell by the Frownie masks??

the Frownie boys

They need to make the masks a tad smaller for little guys

I cut the mouth out for Paul and he drank his chocolate milk through the mask..tsk tsk
After lunch we headed for Ford City and a train display in a local church..This display was my personal favorite. The trains were huge and one blew smoke while the other blew bubbles!!

I caught Paul's attention for just a split second while he was admiring one of the many displays..

Here are 2 Pauls and a David checking out that big display on the floor.

Each display had a list of things to find in the display itself.. Daniel was searching for a green snake- it's in the tree right where he is looking!

Joyce loved the display too.. She helped find the items with the boys

Here is that big one again.. couldn't get enough of it

They have stools for kids who can't see above the tables..like Daniel and David..

This is the first display at the door.. very Christmasy.. beautiful workmanship on all of them.

More on that one I liked so well.. I didn't think I took so many there.. but I did.

Daniel looking for the chain gang..

Great Aunt Jane liked the display too.. David was pointing at the big locomotive coming past him.

LIVING IN HARMONY

"How wonderful it is, how pleasant when brothers live together in harmony! "
Psalm 133:1 NLT

Fighting historical vandalism
" In an article in Focus on the Family's Citizen magazine, Douglas Phillips describes how he took his family to Plymouth, Massachusetts a few years ago and was shocked at what he found. Atop Cole's Hill, the burial ground for Pilgrims who died that first hard winter, Phillips was startled to see a city truck pull up and men pile out carrying shovels. They told Phillips the city was placing a new monument.
"Most revolutions are staged at night," Phillips wrote, so he wasn't surprised the next day to find stone markers all over Plymouth designating Thanksgiving as a day of mourning—a day to recall how the Pilgrims murdered and stole from their Indian neighbors.
That afternoon, demonstrators—mostly white college kids—celebrated their victory by defacing the traditional monuments. Plymouth had transformed a tale of religious freedom into a story of genocide.
The historical reality is totally different. While it's true that later settlers abused the Native Americans, the Pilgrims and the Wampanoag Indians lived together in peace for 50 years. They signed covenants, bought and sold property, and fought against mutual enemies.
The modern obsession with group identity and victimhood encourages us to see those assigned to other groups as our enemies. When we interact with them, we ought to recall the relationship between the Pilgrims and the Indians and model not hostility and hatred but brotherly love. As the psalmist notes, a willingness to get along with others makes for a pleasant and peaceful life.
adapted from How Now Shall We Live? Devotional by Charles Colson (Tyndale) pp 631-32 "

VACATION STARTED LAST NIGHT

Hoopty-Do !!! My vacation started when I clocked out last night at the hospital. Off for a whole week !!!!
I didn't set my alarm clock this morning, but I still woke up at 8:30am..

Just 4 more days till THANKSGIVING !

I'm dying to know how the hospital award banquet went last night. JJ and Keith went. It was at Heinz Field.
JJ has her 5 years in there now.. I have over 30 but have never been to an awards dinner. Maybe the next one, eh?
WEATHER REPORT: it is 37 degrees here this morning...brrrrrrr... the promise is for 43 degrees as a high today...again.. brrrrrrr.. at this rate, I am going to have to get out my winter coat. Say, Cozasalad.. how is the weather on the west coast?? Perhaps Gwimm would let us know how things are in Michigan?? Any snow on the ground yet? It is nearly December, you know.
Now, related to the weather is what happened in NY this past week.. I'm hoping Wendy will blog a bit about the details.. but just so all are aware, there was some major flooding there this week and it was anticipated that it would be more devastating than June's floods. Their home area was declared a disaster area.. mud slides and high raging water brought more problems to the area. Cory had been stranded at school that evening till after 8pm. He did get home around 8:30. Still haven't had any word on the Owego Church?
Their home was unharmed. So today I'm thankful for that and that everyone got home safely that night.
I'm thankful for all the family and friends who prayed for them too..
Uncle Bob has returned home from the hospital- he will be resuming his treatments now at home. I think I'm very very thankful for that. I'm praying that Aunt MaryJane will be able to be home for Thanksgiving. Time will tell.
I'm thankful for the Valentines. They live up on the PA/NY border and give me the opportunity to visit other parts of the state I live in and a little of NY too. I love talking on the phone to them weekly/daily.. and hearing Gaylie sing and laugh- she's a very happy little girl; and to hear Essie tell me about school and what she's doing at that moment; and Isaac too when he gets a chance to be on the phone. They are planning to be here this coming week for a few days over the holiday. Pray for traveling mercy for them.
It was Wendy who got the blogs going in the family- to keep closer touch with each other.. and pass pictures along too.
Well, it's time for me to get off my lazy bones and get dressed for the day.. lots to do here. Have a super duper day !

I'M ON VACATION !!! WOO HOO!

THE COUNTDOWN IS ON

The countdown to Thanksgiving Day is on.. starting today.. just one week from today we will be having our annual dinner together, as will most everyone in our nation. With persecution of Christians, I wonder how much longer our nation will recognize a Day of Thanks to our Lord?
Valentines are planning to arrive on Tuesday. The week will go fast. I've promised Isaac and Essie that I would have pomegranates, or what they call 'Indian Apples'. They had them last year for Thanksgiving and loved them. It was a special request along with a request for shrimp cocktail. Woohoo!! The plan is to have several large trays of shrimp for the big meal. I won't be making myself chicken again this year. Since I can't eat turkey, I'll have a hearty serving of shrimp.. yummy!
The menu has been planned by Wendy and JJ- they do a fabulous job.

I am gainfully employed today and tomorrow and then the vacation begins. I'm planning on sleeping in on Saturday morning.. no alarm clock for me! When I get up, I'll be cleaning up around the house in preparation for hopefully having the local grandchildren- Joyce, Paul, and Daniel for Sunday night and Monday. We have some last minute shopping to do before Thanksgiving, shower, and Christmas. I have a lot of crafts to do yet with them, but they'll have to be on hold. You can do only so much in one day.
Friday is a baby shower for Amy and Paul's new baby due just before Christmas. Just a few more weeks before we get to meet her in person. We are soooooo excited!

Today I'm thankful for my grandchildren and am noting Paul and Amy in particular. Always there to lend a hand with whatever our needs might be.. cars, helping with food prep, and just being available.. Their generosity is more than notable. Thank you for all you do and just for being there. The grandchildren have been such a blessing to us. Cheerful children who are healthy and active and smart too!

I'm asking for prayer today for Paul and Amy and especially for the children.. all the children including the little one who will make her debut in December. Pray for an easy and safe delivery for both Amy and the little girl who is #8 grandchild.
How very blessed we are..
Tomorrow.. more things/people for whom to be thankful.

REAGAN

When I was a child, I remember watching the tv in black and white and 'cowboys and indians' was what we liked to watch best. You could always tell the 'good guys' from the 'bad guys' by the color of their hat. Good guys always wore white hats. And good always prevailed against evil. It's really a shame that our children today don't have the benefit of learning these things today on tv.
Ronald Reagan not only wore a white hat, but he later became one of the most beloved presidents that our country has ever had.. Here are some 'Reaganisms' to remind you of why he was so beloved.


"Here's my strategy on the Cold War: We win, they lose." - Ronald Reagan

"The most terrifying words in the English language are: I'm from the government and I'm here to help." - Ronald Reagan

"The trouble with our liberal friends is not that they're ignorant: It's just that they know so much that isn't so." - Ronald Reagan

"Of the four wars in my lifetime none came about because the U.S. was too strong." - Ronald Reagan

"I have wondered at times about what the Ten Commandment's would have looked like if Moses had run them through the U.S. Congress."- Ronald Reagan

"The taxpayer: That's someone who works for the federal government but doesn't have to take the civil service examination." - Ronald Reagan

"Government is like a baby: An alimentary canal with a big appetite at one end and no sense of responsibility at the other." - Ronald Reagan

"The nearest thing to eternal life we will ever see on this earth is a government program." - Ronald Reagan

"I've laid down the law, though, to everyone from now on about anything that happens: no matter what time it is, wake me, even if it's in the middle of a Cabinet meeting." - Ronald Reagan

"It has been said that politics is the second oldest profession. I have learned that it bears a striking resemblance to the first." - Ronald Reagan

"Government's view of the economy could be summed up in a few short phrases: If it moves, tax it. If it keeps moving, regulate it. And if it stops moving, subsidize it." - Ronald Reagan

"Politics is not a bad profession. If you succeed there are many rewards, if you disgrace yourself you can always write a book." - Ronald Reagan

"No arsenal, or no weapon in the arsenals of the world, is so formidable as the will and moral courage of free men and women. - Ronald Reagan

"If we ever forget that we're one nation under God, then we will be a nation gone under." - Ronald Reagan

THANKSGIVING

What are you thankful for today? I'm thankful for so many things. I believe I will choose my warm home and the family that lives here with me.
I dont' think I'd have made a good pioneer. Indoor plumbing is too important to me. And I don't have to rely on a fire in the fireplace to heat the whole home. It's a wonderful advancement in inventions. I feel comfortable and cozy here.
As for the family that lives here with me.. John has been such a life saver for us. He does the little things that we used to do ourselves .. like taking out the trash weekly and bringing the can back in later. Not only that, but he has taught me much about finance, and has taken over most of the bills leaving us more able to pay the ones that remain.
There aren't many left.
Mandy buys groceries and we share meal-making. They are both exceedingly generous. How very blessed we are to be living under their roof. We get along so well. In the next year, Wendell and I will have our own little place as an extension of this big house. We are all looking forward to this.
So today, I thank the Lord for these things and people in our lives. We are blessed.
Tomorrow I'll let you know about some other things/people who have blessed our lives.

FEELING GOOD

I am feeling so much better and like myself again today. I woke up after about 6 hours of pretty solid sleep, and am looking forward to a good day. I will be gainfully employed in a couple of hours at the office as general help. We are shorthanded there by the loss of 2 employees this week, so I'm helping out wherever I can be of assistance.

It's sunny and 30 degrees today. I noticed there is frost on the windshields of our cars. 55 is the high projected, and rain tonite.

Wendell has a cold. Poor guy. He sure has had his share of health problems this year. He's making up for all those years when he never was sick. The GI problem is resolving for the moment. We shall keep praying.

Pray for us if you would.. and remember Nicki, UBob, AMaryJane.. and Janet too. And also Doris who has just lost her husband of 47 years.

On to my day!! Have a wonderful one..

YET ANOTHER DREARY DAY

I'm amused by the Mountain Laurel.. The weather seems so dreary, but it wants to bloom again. I have to say that in the middle of winter, it has always brought a smile to my face to see the delicate white flowers blooming.
It is a small piece of beauty in the dreariness of late fall when all the leaves are on the ground, trees bared, and dark drizzly days- such as today. My vibrant red burning bush has gone out and no color remains.
It's 42 degrees this morning, but the promise is 50.. we'll see.

Yesterday I was fighting a virus. After sleeping for 8 more hours last night, I'm starting to feel some better. I sure hope I didn't pass that on to anyone. My appetite isn't back with any amount of strength, but toast and coffee will be my breakfast this morning. I'll try for a more nourishing lunch. Maybe some chicken soup.

Gainful employment is on my agenda today. The hospital awaits my presence at 3pm. It'll take me hours to pull myself together, just because the virus has left me feeling a bit weak. Muscles are still achy..enter Tylenol.
I have to stop for water, coffee creamer, and bread today on the way to work. I haven't bought milk in weeks since Wendell's GI upset. The doctor has him off milk.

Off to start my day. Pray for continued strength and health for Wendell and me if you would. No new news about how Uncle Bob is doing. Last I heard, he was still in the hospital, not much better, but not worse. The report from Jane on Aunt MaryJane was that she was doing much better, but still not home yet. Pray for quick and complete healing for Janet too. Remember Nicki as she continues her treatments and has to fly frequently to accomplish these.
Thanksgiving week is coming up- just a week from this Thursday.
I'm thankful for my incredibly wonderful children and family and for my husband who loves me despite all my faults and shortcomings.

BLESSINGS

"Worship and serve him with your whole heart and with a willing mind. For the Lord sees every heart and understands and knows every plan and thought.
If you seek him, you will find him.…" 1 Chronicles 28:9 NLT

I HAD A VIRUS....UGH

It started out to be a busy day. I had planned to attend a funeral and then go on to work for the remainder of the day. However...... I didn't sleep much at all last night. In fact, about 2 hours I'd guess. The sleep was restless. At 2am I was awake and exhausted and my stomach was definitely not a happy camper. I tried a cup of hot tea and some crackers.. but that wasn't what it wanted.. it just made it more upset.
The alarm went off and I got up. UGH..... I felt so miserable- like I'd not had any sleep at all and my stomach was still churning. So, I tried having breakfast with some coffee.. not a good idea. Now I ached and I could feel my breakfast, light as it was, still sitting there angrily.
I knew I'd never get to the funeral at this rate. So I hopped in the shower figuring it always makes the aching ease- but , no, not this time.
You know that 'crawly' feeling you get when you have a virus? Well, I must have a virus.
I pulled myself together and went into the office to try to work. I got about a half hour in before I gave up. No point pushing myself when I felt so crappy and why pass it on to the girls in the office when they are shorthanded anyway.
So I went back home and went to bed and to sleep until 4pm.. It was a sound sleep. I must have needed it.
Tonite I'm feeling some better. I hope it's passing. Last night I slept under 2 large comforters and shivered all night long. Not at all like me. I like the fan on at night even in the dead of winter. I like a breeze in the room.
Wendell is doing so much better. He's eating more varied foods and his GI tract is not acting up too much, though he's still taking the Lomotil twice a day.

Wendy- maybe you should do a post on what everyone is supposed to bring for Thanksgiving since you hold the list. Eh??
Charlie knows he's to bring the pies.

Do you realize it is just 6 weeks to Christmas?? AAACCCCCKKKK!!!!!!!
I do have some shopping done with money I've saved for the kids over the summer. I still have some to do, but have to watch our pennies since Wendell will be on layoff starting the end of Thanksgiving week. He's going to try to sign up to continue his unemployment from last year.
Anyway, I think I 'm going to try to shop online for a few gifts this year. I have never done that, so it should be fun. As I was looking at a catalog online, I found a beautiful US flag throw for our Old Glory room. (no comments, Keith) . I'm going to try to get that for our new place next year as well as a free standing tissue holder for the bath. Well, it's a start. I can't buy too much ahead because there is nowhere to store it at the moment. But it's fun to look.

Looking to a great day tomorrow.. and no more virus. It's getting closer to vacation. I can hardly wait!

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY

PAUL AND AMY

AND MANY MANY MORE