Happy Thanksgiving

Happy Thanksgiving

Hope everyone has a wonderful day today. It is early or late depending on how you look at it. I have been up for several hours but am soon headed to bed for a few. I just wanted to pop on and wish everyone Happy Thanksgiving.

It is storming outside, we are having a rainy Thanksgiving day. I am thankful though because it could be worse - all that rain could be layers of snow forming instead - or the rain could be a freezing rain, ice, sleet, and all that nasty stuff.

It is cold and temp has to be near freezing. The house is warm but still has a slight chill in the air. I am thankful that I have a warm place and it can be made even warmer by controlling the thermostat.

I am suppose to be heading to my brother's house today for dinner. I was working on papers for school yesterday and got the majority of them done, so they will not be a hinderance today. However, now I have a nice headache which is not subsiding. I know it is because of the weather, stress, sinus, and whatever else I want to blame it on...lol. Seriously though, it is a downer at the moment. I am hoping that medications will kick it soon.

The best part of today? for me? is the Parades. I love me some Thanksgiving day parades. If my headache does not ease down, I may snuggle down on the couch, grab a cup of coffee, and watch me some parades.

However, if my headache eases, then i am "on the road again" (sing it with me...lol) and headed to my brothers house for a feast and fellowship.

Time will tell which happens today. Regardless of what happens, today is the day to give thanks. So....

Thank you Lord for the abundant blessings you have bestowed upon me and please be with all my friends, family, and everyone else today. Let each person feel your presence and let them understand that you are the creator of everything. You are the who knows them and loves them totally and completely. You are the Savior who gave his life for them (and me). so thank you Lord.

Blessings Part 2

Today's list of 10 things I am thankful for are going to be more narrow (not as wide a range topic as say World peace.) So now for the list:

1. Migraine meds - I have had a sinus/migraine for past 24 hours or so and the only way I have gotten anything done is to keep taking the meds.

2. Hot coffee with french vanilla creamer and a sweetener - so yummy

3. Little Miss Cleo's meow - I swear it sounds like she is talking to me sometimes.

4. Cable TV - love the history channel, animal planet, biography, ID channel, food network, and several more. I don't watch TV that often but when i do, I so enjoy these channels.

5. Crockpot - love being able to put something in it in the wee hours of the morning, not having to watch it, and a few hours later viola your dinner is ready.

6. Mailbox/Mailperson - love having a mailbox that I can put letters in, put up the red flag, and the mailperson picks up the mail. No driving to the post office to mail a letter.

7. Squirt bottle - I don't use it often and usually only have to pick it up, but Miss Cleo is learning what she can and cannot do. yeah!

8. Bic markers - love them to color digi stamps. I use them more often than I do colored pencils.

9. My printer - I use it for everything, from printing out info for classes, to printing out letters/devotionals, to printing digi stamps, and so much more.

10. Electric Heaters - it is cold again tonight (it is almost 1am) so the electric heater is on and putting out just enough heat to keep things warm. Works better than turning the heat up higher.

Tomorrow is another day so hopefully will be another list.

I still need to do dishes and laundry here at the house. I am working on Shoeboxes and found I still need a few things for them, so I will be headed to the store too. Have a great day whatever you do and don't forget to count your blessings - even the little "ordinary' things.

Blessings Abundant

November is here. This is the month of Thanksgiving, to count our blessings, and to give thanks for those blessings. So todays post is my list of 10 things I am thankful for:

1. Little Miss Cleo

2. A job that pays the bills

3. A vehicle that looks good and runs too.

4. A place that I can call home.

5. A pantry that is stocked with yummy food.

6. A computer that allows me to connect with people, to take classes, to blog and so much more.

7. Family and friends that support and care about me.

8. Freedom to practice/voice my religious beliefs.

9. A quiet neighborhood that is not too far from work.

10. A profession (nursing) that allows me to care for people and make a difference in their lives.

This list is broad, next time I am going to narrow it down some to more specific items. Now its your turn, what is your list?

Baking Mood

Got up real early this morning and decided to fix some cookies. I found the oatmeal recipe that my mom always used. I tweaked it some and added my own touches. I added a little almond flavoring because I could not find any nuts. I was sure I had some, but searching the cabinet did not produce any. So the almond flavoring will have to do.
Here is the mixture with some raisins.
It really doesn't look the yummiest does it? raw oatmeal cookie dough.

So instead of making them as drop cookies, I ended up putting them into a cake pan. I figured it would be easier and faster and still be good. Here they are ready to go into the oven.

I ended up making two batches, one with raisins and one without. Now are you ready? Here is the finished product. Yummy!!!

While the oven was nice and warm I decided to make pizza. Do you remember those little round pizzzas that the schools used to serve for lunch. take a hamburger bun as the crust and add the toppings then toast? Well, I kind of did that. I took a loaf of french bread, sliced it in half, added sauce, then hamburger, then shredded cheese and baked/toasted in the oven. I used hot dog sauce as the sauce for the pizza. It gives it a different type of flavor, but so good. Now I have lunches for the next couple days. Yummy lunches!! Love me some pizza.

And now there is chicken baking in the oven. I found a good deal on some boneless, skinless chicken breasts. I ended up buying extra so put them in the freezer. The rest is now baking in the oven. They should almost be done. Smells yummy.

I am not sure why I am such a baking/cooking mood this morning. However, I work the next few days so having this ready will be a good thing.

And before I close this post, I need to say Thank you Lord for the bounty you have provided.

Have a great day!

Seasons Change

Seasons are changing.
Fall is here.
The trees are decked out in gorgeous colors. This leaf blew into the front yard from a neighbor's tree. It was so unique that I just had to take a pic of it. See the dark green veins shining through the orange color? Exquisite isn't it?


this is a tree from the backyard. Pretty with all the orange, red, brown colors against some greenery that is still showing on some of the trees.

Sunset a couple nights ago. This is looking out across the road. The tree just seems to radiate light doesn't it?

It is so hard to believe that October is almost over and soon it will be November, then December, then 2011. Unbelievable, where has time went?

This section of classes are almost over. I am holding at a low A in each class, so if my test scores do not drop me then I should make it with an A. If not at least I will have a B. Both grades are passing so that is what matters. I have next week off from school and then a Nursing class starts. It seemed weird not having homework to do today.

So instead I watched tv and colored digi stamps. I have quite a few done and now will have to decide what I want to do with them. Right now they are in a container for later use.

I have been up since 0200 so will probably head to bed for awhile. I am off tonight so will more than likely be up most of the night as usual. I am thinking that I might make some cookies later. It is suppose to get cold again tonight and having the oven running will warm things up here. I can take the cookies to work with me so at least I won't have them all here at the house tempting me. I want to fix a pizza so I will have that for lunches for a few days. I do love pizza.

How do you spell Relief?

Right now I am spelling it as yeah the classes are almost done. This is the last week of my first two classes online for my BSN. They have been filled with many trials. It has been hard to learn the system, to find and prioritize my time in order to get everything done, and to learn to study all over again. I have been out of school since 1994 so this has been an experience.
My vacation is almost over. I return to work Tuesday night. As for finishing classes, the majority of the work is done. Just a few more little things to be done this week and viola they will be done. I figure I will end the classes with a high B, so I am happy. I would be happier if I was looking at an A but a B is good. right? It is passing and that is the main thing that matters.

I have learned more about politics than I ever wanted to know. I am taking the course through another state so had to take a class on their state's political system. One thing I will say is that it has made me more aware of the political situation in my own state. I tend to be passive where politics are concerned. Will this make me change? I do not know, but I do know it has made me more aware of why and how things happen in the political scene.

Another thing I have learned is how valuable friends are. I have a friend who is going through this with me and she has been a lifesaver in so many ways. I so appreciate her! If I am struggling and ready to give up, I can call her, she listens, then she helps me get back on track. Thanks Cathy, I know I could not have made it through these past few weeks without you.
My niece has been a great help too. I know many times she has been there to help me out - mainly by being there for me to bounce things off of or just listening to me sound off. She has been my other major source of support through all this. Here's hoping I can return the favor someday.

As for the future? I know there are many more classes to go. There are many more problems to face. Time will still be a problem for me. However, I know with God's help and the support of friends, it can be done and I will succeed!

In the Fire

My life has been so busy these past few weeks.
I started online classes for my BSN on Sept 27th. Let me tell you, I have been out of school for too long. These classes are kicking my butt!! Between working full-time, extra meetings for work, and schoolwork - there is just not enough hours in the day.

The attacks on my mind, spirit, and body were severe. I was so stressed and tired that my mind was foggy, my brain was not working, and I had trouble even doing the simplest things. I felt like I was going to have a nervous breakdown. The stress built, and built, and built until by the end of the first two weeks of classes, I told someone I could not take much more, that I felt like I was in the fire and being consumed.

And just when I thought I could take it no longer, that my grip on the rope holding me up was slipping, just then...I received an email from a friend/co-worker. It included the following story (paraphrased) and scripture:

Malachi 3:3 He will sit as a refiner and purifier of silver.

The story talks about a lady watching a silversmith refining silver. He has to keep it directly in the center, the hottest part of the fire. He has to watch it all the time and remove it at just the right moment. And He knows just when it is done because he sees his image in it.

I read that and just started laughing. It so hit home. I had mentioned being in the fire and being consumed. The fact was, I had been in the fire, but I was not consumed. I was being refined. I was being watched every minute and at just the right moment I was removed. Even though I did not think I could handle much more, God knew just when I needed to be removed from the midst of the fire.

That knowledge was a turning point for me. The severe oppression, depression, overwhelming feelings of worthlessness, and I Can't Take Much More so I should just quit - those feelings left!

As for school, I have a B in one class and an A in the other with 2 1/2 more weeks to go. I can only say I made it this far with God's help and I am depending on him to help me the rest of the way.

This past weekend started off good. I got off work at 0730 Saturday morning and was on vacation!! Monday morning, I started feeling weird and by Monday evening I was sick. I had lots of complaints: abdominal soreness, headache, nausea, heartburn, loss of appetite, and extreme tiredness. I could hardly hold my head up, so I slept and slept and slept. Right now it is almost 0400 on Wed morning, I am starting to feel somewhat better. I am hoping it continues and the rest of my vacation is illness free. I have so much I want to do, but I know the majority of my time will be focused on school.

Unbelievable

Whew!!! It has been a long and busy past few nights. Have worked several nights and all I can say is I am so glad they are over. Off tonight and I so need it. I feel like my body has been run over by a Mack truck, a Semi trailer, a Tank, or something similar. Or maybe someone came in while I was sleeping and used my body as a punching bag. All I know is I am stiff, sore, aching, and really had a lot of problems getting out of bed and getting my bones/joints to moving. Think I need some WD40. ha ha.

Sometimes work can be either Feast or Famine. Census can be booming or so low that a unit might be closed. I don't really know about last night. I don't know if census was booming, but I do know that it was busy. There were still beds available so I know our unit was not full. However, busy, busy, busy, busy little beavers we were and we weren't getting the job done. We were plugging along and doing the best we could but... We needed reinforcements. We needed help. We needed someone to send in the calvary.

Have you ever worked for someone who would let you drown? If you called and told them you needed help, they just didn't have any solutions? would not offer to even come in to help for a short time? would not try to find you any help?
Now I can see it if you are constantly calling for help. If you can never seem to get through a shift without "drowning" yourself. If you are always behind. Hey, if this is happening then you may need some time management classes. However, I am talking about those rare occasions when what needs done and what you are managing to do just are not balancing out on the scale - things are definitely not in your favor. Then what happens?

Last night was one of those cases. One of the solutions my manager/boss came up with was to come in and assist for a few hours. Wow!!! that is unheard of most of the time. In all my years of working (started working in nursing homes soon after graduating high school, then moved on to the hospital setting), anyway, I only remember two other times when a manager came in to assist. My manager came in, pitched in to get the work done and get us caught up, did not pick and choose her jobs but just did whatever needed done. I was very impressed. Just knowing that she would come in to help, well, those are the type of managers that I will tend to go the extra mile for if needed. What is the saying...something about....Don't ask me to do something that you would not do yourself. Well, she definitely was not that type of person. In my book, that makes her stand out above the rest.

I feel so blessed to have her as a leader, manager, boss! and I hope she continues in the position for quite some time to come. I feel that with her at the lead, caring about the staff and the unit, then maybe, just maybe we could make our unit the best again. We could really make it Rock!!!

More than One Test

Goodness it has been an emotional whirlwind of a last few days. ACLS. Anyone taken it before?
I knew it was coming up. I tried to get a book, but there weren't any. They did have a pamphlet of some papers that included a pre-test and pages and pages of drugs. No books though. Would the books have helped? I am not sure, but still....
The first day was class. Lots and lots of info was discussed. There were some test out sections - testing out on the AED, testing out on CPR, demonstrations on entubation, and lots more. There were discussions about the mega-codes. make sure you say "resume CPR" or we can fail you. Make sure you participate, make sure you say "IV route" with the drugs or we can fail you. Okay, to be honest, did they say it that many times? I am not sure but I do know each time was stuck in my brain - Fail, fail, fail, fail, remember, remember, remember, or fail, fail, fail, fail. By the time I left, I was on serious overload and feeling severely overwhelmed. Talk about feeling like giving up, I was there!!!
I came home, grabbed a bite to eat, played with Miss Cleo and tried to study. It did not work. I looked at the clock and decided I did not care at that point, I wanted sleep. My day had begun in the wee am hours around 3am and it was 7pm then. Sleep came, but it was not restful - it was nightmarish thoughts that invaded my dreams. I woke 2 1/2 hours later, not as sleep deprived, still tired, but more able to concentrate. I grabbed my pencil, my notebook, and the papers. I did the pre-test first and did not do bad, but did not do good either. So I grabbed the pencil and paper and wrote out over and over the steps of each logarithm. A few hours later, I was feeling better and sleepy so went back to bed. I slept 2-3 more hours and then got back up a little before 5am. I made a pot of coffee, grabbed a cup when it was done, grabbed the papers and started studying again.
I was beginning to feel it was not worth going in to take the class and if I could not do this, then what was the use of trying to go back for my BSN!!!! Maybe I was just too old. Maybe I couldn't comprehend anymore. Maybe I didn't have what it took to do this. Maybe I should just give up!
I was ready to. I was ready to not go to class. I was ready to just stay home.
I prayed and as a last ditch effort put out a plea for prayer via email to some friends on the internet. I was praying they would see this and intercede for me. I left quoting the words from the scripture - "I CAN DO ALL THINGS THROUGH CHRIST JESUS WHO STRENGTHENED ME!!' I went to class!
God provided peace to my body. He provided peace to my mind. When it came time for the mega-codes I was calm, I was peaceful, I could recall the info I had studied. When it came time for the test, I was very calm, I could recall the info, and I was sure of the answers. I passed ACLS.
What this means:
I could have given up and that may have lead to me giving up on the school.
However, it is just another proof that I am on the right track. I can do all things if I continue to rely on the one who can provide calmness during the storms of life. The one who provides peace when all is chaos inside of me. The one who provides strength when mine is totally gone. The one who knows that even though I would chose for this to be handled differently, his way is the best.

As a side note - when I checked emails this morning, I received one with a beautiful prayer written out. It was timed at 10:04am and my first mega-code started at 10:10am. The other emails I received in answer to people praying were timed from when I sent the email and continued throughout the morning. I am so thankful for all the prayers. I am so thankful for the technology that allows us to reach out to people all over the world via the internet and form a prayer chain that grows stronger and stronger with each prayer that joins the chain. It still amazes me how God can use everyone and everything.

Jammie Day

Today is a New Day.
Prayers are being answered.
I was suppose to be going to a meeting today for work. Today is my only day off because I am not counting yesterday. Yesterday I got off work at 0730 then proceeded to sleep off and on or just veg out half awake, half asleep. I have class the next two days (for work) and then have to go back for 3 12 hour shifts. So really today is my only day off and I really wanted to declare a jammie day.
Have you ever had a jammie day? You know a day when you get up and stay in your jammies all day because you are not going to go anywhere, you are just going to stay home and do whatever you want to do - no one can make you do anything! Love those days and don't have them enough.
Praises are going up because I found out yesterday around noon that the meeting is cancelled until Sept 24th. So..... it's a Jammie Day!!!! Yeah!!!!

So what do I want to do today? Well..... I am going to play with stamps, inks, and paper. I went to Goodwill a few months back and found these really cool neat stamps. I think they were made for a kid, but hey I am just a kid in an over sized body...haha. The stamps are about a 2x2 square (maybe a little less). Each one has only one thing on it, for instance the one showing is a rainbow with clouds, there are also dinosaurs, a telephone, golf bag, a moon with stars, and many other neat things. There are also a bunch of the alphabet (those I have put up because I tend to use other stamps for when I need the alphabet).the back of the stamps have a little knob on them - then that knob fits into the pink holder and the back of the holder has a part for you to hold onto to - then makes it a stamp which is usable. So neat and easy to use.
I stamped off some of the moon and the rainbows. I colored them and cut them out. They are small but I love to use small things on cards. sometimes they give just the right "pizzazz" that is needed.

Here is my little one sitting in front of the computer proceeding to block my view. Did not realize until now that it looks like she is sitting in front of a huge dog. The computer screen is behind here and the dog is a pic on my desktop. As you can see the keyboard is already moved over to the side so she can sit there. she blocked my view and hindered my typing for about 5 minutes then when back to curl up in her bed.

Going for another cup of coffee and going to stamp some things - Maybe I can get something put together and show what all I do with the little things I cut out. have a great day and maybe you can have a jammie day too.

The Dream

Fall is here. The nights are getting cooler. I was off last night and woke to a very cool morning - I was snuggled up in a lightweight blanket and almost wished I had something heavier covering me. However, I got up instead and now have coffee on. Soon I will have a steaming cup of hot coffee. So good on a cool morning.

Miss Cleo is snuggled down in her bed. She is curled into a semi-circle with her tail curled up underneath her. She is so pretty lying there. I can watch her little chest moving up and down - rhythmically as she sleeps. The sleep of the innocent - the sleep of contentment - the sleep knowing that she is safe and secure.

How I wish I could rest in that assurance - always!!! Some days I try to sleep, but the sleep that comes does not rest my soul. However, the other day (I think it was this past Wed) I slept during the afternoon because I had to work that night - oh the sleep that came. the restful, blessed sleep that restores and rejuvenates your body and soul. I woke dreaming and upon awakening remembered the dream. Now that does not always happen, but this time it did.

The Dream:

I was sitting on a screened in porch in a comfy chair, had a lightweight blanket to snuggle up in and a steaming hot cup of coffee with my favorite French Vanilla creamer and Sweetener. It was a cool morning too so both the blanket and coffee were welcomed. The sight before me was awesome - the brillant colors of a sunrise were displayed over a body of water. I am not sure if it was the ocean or not, but the soft ripple of waves were rushing to shore and the water stretched far into the horizon - the blues of the water melting into the pinks, reds, and other colors displayed in the sunrise. An awesome sight - seeing God's majestic artwork.

I remember the quietness all around me - just the distant sounds of the waves hitting the shore and the occasional bird (sea gull maybe) saying It's a Glorious Morning.

I can still picture that sight in my mind - it has become a treasured memory and a restful haven during times of stress or trials. My friend, Cathy, says it was a blessing from God.

It reminds me of Elijah - he was sitting under the juniper tree wanting to die, but God has an angel go to him, bake bread upon a rock, wake Elijah up to eat, the angel does this twice, and then Elijah goes on the substance of those two meals for the next 40 days.

I am not sure how long I will be going on the substance of that dream but already it has sustained me through a night of stressful busy work. Even in the chaos it provided a peace to my soul.

Read more on Elijah in 1 Kings chapter 19.

Odds n Ends

Good morning. It has turned off cool here in Indiana - yesterday it was raining some and that made it even cooler. It is suppose to rain again today too - scattered showers that is according to the weather man. After all the hot hot weather we had been having, the fall weather is feeling really good. My body is not liking it though - the cold is causing lots of body aches and sinus problems. I can deal with it though. Was off last night, am up early and have my coffee in my favorite coffee cup. I bought this right after I moved here 3+ years ago. It is a little larger than a regular coffee cup, but not by much. I had two of them but the other one ended up breaking (probably from overuse...lol). Now I treasure the one I have left and use it most of the time. It has a small chip along the rim but is still useable. It even reminds me of Christmas year round since it says Santa Stop here....lol.

Here it is filled with my favorite vanilla coffee, vanilla creamer, and sweetener. Yum!!!
One of my friends, who recently moved into a beautiful new old but loved home, gave me a few boxes of things to put in a garage sale. Included were boxes of picture frames in various shapes and styles and several larger pictures that were already framed. This one is not going in the sale, but is going in my bedroom. I just think the little girl is so sweet...and besides she has my two favorite animals with her - a kitty and a loveable dog. Check out the frame - it is so pretty too with the unique design.

this smaller 5x7 framed picture was also included. I really like the uniqueness of the frame and it is one of my favorite colors - blue. I am not sure what I am going to do with it yet, but just don't want to part with it.

I am not keeping this lamp but i do like it. It reminds me of my older sister who loves all victorian type things. Not sure this is victorian, but it sure does remind me of her.

Loved this little knick-knack. I thought about nabbing it too, but I know Miss Cleo would not leave any pen in the holder. She thinks any pen or pencil is a toy for her to play with - so I figure it would be bettter off finding another home. so sad.

Yesterday I started going through old cards. One of my friend's mom gave me a huge ziplock bag filled with old cards and card fronts. I started sorting them out, cutting out different pictures and parts of the cards in order to recycle them - to use them on other cards. Here are just a few of the pictures. This one reminds me so much of my paternal grandma - I think it is the bonnet and the apron. however, it sure does look like her - don't you think so too Mandy???

These little bears came from a Christmas card. I send out several cards each week and this year want to send out Christmas or winter theme cards the whole month of December. That will be a lot of cards and I think the little bears will end up finding the perfect home on another card.

And this cute reindeer too.

And I just couldn't pass up the kitty.

Thank you to my friend's mom for all these and many more. I still have about a dozen more to go through. That is my project for today. I will have my scissors in use!!

I am planning on sitting on the couch, putting some Southern Gospel music on (probably the Gaither's Homecoming Videos), grabbing my supplies and just enjoying myself. Hope you have something enjoyable planned for today.

Helping Study

My little Miss Cleo is almost a year old. My how time flies. She is still a great source of company and entertainment. She loves to be somewhere close to where I am. Trying to read or study with her help is quite a job sometimes. Here she is trying to help me do a Bible study.

Oh wow, a pen she says...

Okay, so I can't have the pen, then I will just lie here on your book. You didn't want to read this part did you?


And when you are not paying attention, when you least expect it - I will attack the pen. Yeah, it is mine!!


What you talking about? I didn't do anything. I am just lying here all innocent! Innocent I say. Hey how about a treat?

That is what I imagine my little Miss Cleo is thinking and saying.
She does love her treats even though she does not get them very often. For me, my treat is my Diet Coke. Love my Diet Coke. I try to cut back but still need to have one or two or three a day.


Soon I will start back to school for my BSN in nursing. I found out I got accepted and classes start Sept 27th. I am taking all the classes online. Miss Cleo will be helping me study for them I am sure - either by attacking the books, the pens, or blocking my view of the computer. the joys of a cat who is no longer a kitten but still plays like one. I think I will keep her!!!

Stay-cation

Still on vacation, but sure wish I was feeling better to thoroughly enjoy it. I keep blaming it on the weather. Seems each morning I awaken with a sinus type headache. Yesterday it was rainy, today it is not. The humidity is high so maybe that is the reason. Have taken some Tylenol and grabbed a bite to eat so hopefully it will ease down soon. Usually by mid-afternoon to early evening it has subsided. Guess I should just stay on my night shift schedule and I would be more productive while I am off.

I had bought several ears of corn a couple of days ago. I put them in the fridge cause had not felt like doing anything with them yet. Today I decided that regardless of how I felt, I had to do something with them or they would go to waste. So I blanched them and put 9 ears into the freezer. I think I need to get another dozen to put into the freezer to have for later on during the cold winter months. Might try a different vender though. I heard the little stand across from the hospital has some really good ears of sweet corn - so sweet that you don't even need butter. Sounds yummy!

My laptop has been having issues, but I had not totally decided on buying a new computer. Had been considering a desk top for several reasons.

1. Miss Cleo tends to walk on the keyboard or will lie in front of the monitor (which was also on top of the keyboard).

2. the laptop has such a small monitor screen and my old eyes are having problems seeing it - so thought a bigger monitor screen would help.

3. I am looking at starting back to school in September so want to make sure that I am able to access a computer - since it will all be online. My laptop seems to have a mind of its own sometimes and I am not able to do what I want to do on it.

Okay, those are just the top three reasons. So I researched online, then went looking, and bought a new desktop computer - an HP with a 23 inch monitor. I love it. It is taking some getting used to but the larger monitor makes it all worthwhile. The day after setting up the desktop - my laptop died. Isn't the Lord amazing? He planted the seed - a desire for a new computer, then nudged me along, has provided the financial means to get one (the hours at work), and kept my laptop functioning until the new desktop was set up. I spend a lot of time on the computer - doing research, typing articles, etc. I know I could do it, but it would be hard to be without a computer right now. I am still praising God for his goodness in taking care of even the little things - like a computer.

As for Miss Cleo and the new computer - she is still a pest where the computer is concerned. At times she sits in front of the monitor (right in the middle so it blocks the view and you have to look around her...lol), she chases the mouse and paws at the screen (so glad she has the front paws de-clawed), and curls up on the desk lying as close as she can to me (which makes it hard to type). However, it is working out so much better. she has not managed to lock up the new computer cause usually the keyboard is not accessible for her to step on, to lie on, jump over, or all the things she was able to do to the laptop keyboard.

I have found that most of the time she will lie on the back of the couch which is on the other side of the computer desk or be in her bed which is on the end of the craft table beside the computer desk . There she is close to me and can see what is going on, but still has a little distance. She has taken many naps while doing that. Here is Miss Cleo taking a nap.

Garden Update

Wow, it has been forever since I have posted. So much has been going on. I am on vacation again. doing a staycation - meaning I am not going anywhere...lol.
My plants are growing. I have gotten one red tomato off my tomato plants. My broccoli plants are starting to produce small buds of broccoli. A couple of days ago I got up and found the raccoons had uprooted one of my plants. I was so upset. there was dirt all over the deck and the plant was lying on the deck. So I put the dirt back into the pot and replanted the plant. It looked so droopy all day long, but by the next day it was starting to come out of it. I am so hoping it will be okay. I am not sure how to keep the raccoons out of the plants - they are town raccoons and are really not scared of too much. Right now I only see them at night - under cover of darkness they do their dirty work...lol.
this morning in the wee hours, Miss Cleo saw a green bug on the outside of the window. She meowed and meowed wanting to get to the bug. she is my official bug watcher. she will climb to the highest level just to try to get a bug. I always know when one has invaded the house cause I hear her meowing. Needless to say she had to give up on the green bug. There was no way I was going to let her outside just to get a bug...lol
I have laundry in the washer and I think it is ready for the dryer so better go get it. Have a wonderful day.

Cucumbers

Numbers 11:5
We remember the fish, which we did eat in Egypt freely; the cucumbers, and the melons, and the leeks, and onions, and garlic:

Isaiah 1:8
And the daughter of Zion is left as a cottage in a vineyard, as a lodge in a garden of cucumbers, as a besieged city.

okay this may not be anything new to you, but I have read these passages many times before. However, today these words just stood out or at least one of them. Maybe it is because I am watching my veggies grow - waiting each day for the produce that they will bring. I did not plant cucumbers, do not really care for the taste of them, but still that is the main word that stood out. Before today, I could not have even told you the word cucumbers was in the Bible...lol. However, it lead me on a search. I found two verses that listed the word - cucumbers. In Isaiah it talks about a lodge in the midst of a garden of cucumbers - a commentary talks about someone staying during the growing season to keep watch over the crop - who would have thought someone would be so desperate as to try to swipe all the cucumbers so that someone had to stand watch. The other thing that amazes me is how some of the same foods the people, who walked the pages of my Bible, ate are foods still available for us today. Can you just imagine sitting down to a meal with Paul and sharing a cucumber? just makes me smile to think of it. Another thing - this just makes the Bible even more real for me and shows me that the rest of the it is applicable for the here and now. Thanks for letting me share my ramblings today.

Coffee

One of my favorite drinks is coffe. I love to get up on my day off, put a pot of coffee on, grab me a cup with some sweetener and french vanilla creamer - Yummy!!!!

I can remember a time when I thought coffee was nasty, but now I love it. I can forgo the creamer but have to have at least a little sweetener. However, it makes it extra special to add the french vanilla creamer. It is a vice that I like and enjoy.

Wish we could share a cup together.

Blue

Today has been a gloomy day. We had a little bit of rain, but mostly has just been hot, sticky, cloudy, and depressing. I have worked on making cards - was mainly using different papers, stickers, and glitter pens. Have several that look pretty cute.
Looking outside I did see a tiny baby tomato on one of the plants. That was a surprise cause I check them all the time, but this is the first time I have seen anything beyond blooms.
Reading some and getting very tearful - think I am just overly tired!!! I was off last night but never got much sleep. So even though it is early, I am headed to bed in a few and hopefully when I was up I will be refreshed. Have a good afternoon/evening.

Good Night

I was suppose to work last night, was all psyched up and ready to go back to work, had my shower, uniform on, and sitting on the couch killing some time before leaving for work. Vacation was over, I was refreshed from being home this past week or so, and so I was willing to return to my job at the hospital.
Then out of the blue, the ring of the phone startled me. I usually have the phone on vibrate but was using the alarm so had the volume turned up. Caller id said it was work. They wanted to know if I wanted to be on call - never expected that because just took an on call day right before vacation started. However, they said it was my turn again. Sweet! So I ended up staying home another night - never did get called in.

Since I had slept yesterday in preparation for working last night, I ended up being wide awake. I worked on the computer sorting/filing pictures, did some searches for poems, made a quick run to Walmart, typed up some papers, and worked on some cards. I have the cards ready that I need to send out this week, so worked on the ones for next week. Yippee, I have them all ready to go except for postage. I am so ahead of the game and that is unusual...lol.

Now why did I post a picture that says Good Night when it is early morning? Well, it is because of the perils of night shift. My day ends when most people's is beginning. So my good night is probably your good morning. I am winding down for a bit, then will head to the other room to find my pillow and blanket. I am just about ready to go snuggle down and get some sleep. Hope everyone has a blessed day whether they are getting up to start the day or winding down their day. Till next time, have a good one.

Garden

It seems like forever since I have updated on here. I have been on vacation since May 19th and have been thoroughly enjoying the time off work. I have cleaned the whole house - going through drawers, cabinets, closets and such - the bedroom, the kitchen, the bathroom, the living room/craft area, the garage, and the "black hole" otherwise known as the spare room. It was not named the black hole for no reason - things that went in there were lost. It is so organized now - I can find what I want, I have room for a small table to sew, and most of all - I can see the floor (stuff had just been tossed in there....lol. ) Any unwanted or not used items were boxed up for a garage sale sometime this next month or so. It has been work but the final results are so worth all the time and effort. My furry companion, Miss Cleo, has helped. She helped by following me from room to room, she helped by climbing into any empty box, she explored all areas of the house - open a door or drawer and she thought she needed to see what was in there. She was such a nuisance but a good nuisance. Such a joy to watch the curiosity of a cat!!!

This is Miss Cleo lying on the back of the couch trying to decide what to get into next....lol.

Growing up, we always had a huge garden. My mom canned, froze, or somehow stored/saved anything and everything. When I was married - I did the same. I am not planning on canning that much or putting that in the freezer, but so wanted some fresh veggies (just not the same when you go to the store and buy them). Last year, I wanted to plant a few veggie plants but never got it done. So this year I was determined to get some planted. I had bought 4 large planters last year during the after the season clearance and stored them in the garage for this year. See, I told you I was determined...lol. I have a large back deck that is not really used that much, but lots and lots of sun shines down on it. So perfect for my container garden. I did need to get some more larger pots, but am so pleased with the results. I can sit at the kitchen table and see my garden's growth. With all the greenery I decided I needed some color too - so I bought this lovely hanging basket of petunias. They look so pretty and best of all - they were marked down from $14.99 to $7.99. WhooHoo!!! Love to save money. I have a total of 3 tomato plants - I got two of them a couple of weeks before I got the third plant, so they had more chance to grow - they already have blooms on them and are getting quite tall. Can't wait till there are red tomatoes. Yummy!!!

I love broccoli too so decided to try to grow some. It did not come in individual pots so had to get a small tray. There are 6 broccoli plants. I originally had them in smaller containers then had to transplant them - good thing I did cause they were getting root-bound. I have heard that broccoli needs a larger pot in order to produce - not sure mine are large enough, but so far they are growing. I, also, got one pepper plant. I do not like big chunks of pepper, but love to use it for seasoning, so if it produces it will be perfect for me. I had a small package of seeds - peas - so decided to see what would happen if I planted them. The first couple nights they were in the pot - a late night-time visitor (a raccoon) decided to dig in the pot - some of the seeds got uprooted. They had not been planted that long of a time, so I just pushed them back down and covered them back up. The peas have taken off. My friend came over and we made a make-shift trellis for them. I have no idea whether they will produce, but will say they are sure pretty and I am so enjoying watching them grow.

So what are you doing this year? planting a garden? planting flowers? anything? hope you take some time to plant something and watch God's handiwork in action as he helps your plant to grow. Have a blessed day.

Rest

Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light. (Matthew 11:28-30)

REST! What a promise that is "come unto me...and I will give you rest."

There are days I just want to curl up and sleep forever - to lie down with my favorite pillow, cover up with my favorite blanket, and have my kitty snuggling close by me, no alarm set, phone turned off, and just hours of uninterrupted sleep - almost sounds like heaven on earth. Problem is that there are days when no matter how much rest I get - I still awaken physically exhausted. No matter how many days off I have from work - I still feel like I am physically drained.

Then there is the spiritual battle that wages - the spiritual war we fight each and every day. Oh to have rest from the trials of life, the mental fatigue, the battle with self, the battle between good and evil, and all the other battles that wage within us. The promise is "ye shall find rest unto your souls."

The problem is finding the peace that allows us to rest and to awaken refreshed. How is this accomplished? by trusting God the same way a child trusts his parents, by turning over any problems to God and allowing him to handle them, to lead, and guide us; by trusting him in everything - both great and small, claiming and standing on each promise in the scripture.

The scripture promises rest, but the condition of that is to go to him. As it says "come unto me and I will give you rest"

Mother's Day

How true this is. As a child and young adult, I remember thinking that my mom was lacking in so many ways - she was not hip, not modern, very old-fashioned, not up on the latest trends. Now I look back and see how much she knew. She taught me so much and I did not even realize it. She showed me how to can and store things up for the future. She made sure that there was a large garden put out, so that she could can anything and everything there was - what was not canned was put into the freezer. She showed me how to stock up for lean times and to stretch the food available to make it feed a growing family.

I remember all the crafts she did - saving the scraps of material, making quilts, crocheting, making soap bottle dolls, and so much more. She showed me how to make things for others from what she had and she did so with so much love.

She showed me the power of prayer, of reading the Word, listening to gospel music, and most of all trusting God. So many times I saw her reading her Bible or sitting with her eyes closed praying softly.

I am now divorced so it may not seem like much of this is needed now, but I still find that I am using a lot of her tips. Her frugality - her stocking up - her having things available during lean times - her using what she had to make do and provide for what was needed. All things I am doing now, especially depending and trusting God.

So on this Mother's Day - I want to wish my mom a Happy Mother's Day. How I wish I could see you and give you a hug. However, my mom has been with the Lord since 1984. That is a lot of Mother's Days without her, but that does not mean I have ever forgotten her. So once again - thanks and Happy Mother's Day MOM.

The Lights are Out

Do you ever feel like the lights are out? that you are wandering around in the darkness? that the map has suddenly been tore off and the way is no longer visible? you have no plan, no course of action, no idea what is around the bend.

Like the ship on a course to collide with the lighthouse because the light is no longer visible - how my life feels like that so often. I feel like I am on a dusty country road, really just a foot path, surrounded by total darkness, except for a small section right in front of me - a section that is just a few feet in length - a section that is illuminated by a light shining up ahead - the light does not put out much light, but glows brightly through the darkness just enough for me to see the few feet in front of me. As long as I continue going forward, then the light continues to shine upon the path so I can see what is directly ahead of me. I have enough light to avoid the pitfalls, the potholes, the roadblocks that are in the path. If I veer towards the right or the left or turn around, then there is nothing but total darkness.
For me the only way to be sure of a safe passage and not have the darkness envelope me is for me to continue my journey focusing on the path and light in front of me. Just taking one step at a time.

What do I think this means?
the path = my life, my choices, my decisions
the darkness = sin, the world, the wrong decisions, the traps, anything that blocks my way
the light = my Lord and Savior, my guide, my friend

Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path. (Psalm 119:105)

Is the path easy? absolutely not.
Do I wish more was exposed? sometimes yes and sometimes no. I often wish more of the future would be shown so I would have a clue of what I am suppose to do, where I am suppose to go, etc. However, sometimes I think what is in the darkness that I can not see should remain hidden because I really might not want to know what is out there.
Will I continue on this path? yes, even though it is hard, even though so many things try to entice me off the path, I know that without following the light - I would be totally lost.

The day is thine, the night also is thine: thou hast prepared the light and the sun. (Psalm 74:16)

For thou wilt light my candle: the Lord my God will enlighten my darkness. (Psalm 18:28)

O send out thy light, and thy truth: let them lead me; let them bring me unto thy holy hill, and to thy tabernacles. (Psalm 43:3)

Miss Cleo

In December I gained a new friend - Miss Cleo. She is not really what I imagined having in my life. As for animals - dogs have always been my favorite animal. However, with my life and work schedule - having a cat in my life makes things much easier. A cat is more independent in many ways. When the thought of getting a cat crossed my mind - I would always think of a solid colored cat - a pure snowy white cat or a coal black cat or a smoky gray cat. When I went looking for a cat - I was planning on getting a solid black cat or none at all, but it did not turn out that way. I brought home this little tortoise colored kitten - black with browns and oranges and all different hues blended together to make a beautiful cat.

Is it what I wanted? Is it what I needed? Is it what is best for me?

I have grown to love the companionship of the little kitten. I am enjoying watching her grow, seeing her play, having her snuggle up beside me, hearing her purring. She is not what I imagined, but I know that she is what I need. It amazes me how God knows just what we need and if we listen and follow his leading then he supplies our needs and even some of our wants.

It amazes me how God knows what we like, but also knows what we need. He supplies our needs, not necessarily our wants. He allows us to choose, but sometimes what we choose is not necessarily what is best for us.

Philipians 4:19
But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.

Romans 8:28

And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.

Final Resting Place

I recently took a trip up north and visited the cemetary where my mom and dad are buried. Just a little place in the country. It is surrounded on two sides by cows, the back side by trees, and a farmhouse across the road. A quaint little out-of-the-way place, a quiet resting place for some very special family members. Along with my parents, my grandparents, an aunt, an uncle, and a cousin are also resting there.

It was a beautiful day for a drive. The sun was shining, the wind softly blowing, the trees swaying in the breeze, and the cows mosing about in the pastures. It has been quite some time since I have been there to visit their graves. My mom was always worried that no one would come to visit her grave since it is so out-of-the-way in the country. However, I do not really think of them as being there. I know that their physical body is resting there, but not their spirit or soul. Still sometimes it is nice to go visit. It is a link to them, a tangible final resting place for someone who was so very important and significant in my life.

Death seems such a permanent thing, Or is it? Is it just the beginning of a new life? As for me, my hope is found in 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18

But I would not have you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning them which are asleep,

that ye sorrow not, even as others which have no hope. For if we believe that Jesus died

and rose again, even so them also which sleep in Jesus will God bring with him. For this

we say unto you by the word of the Lord, that we which are alive and remain unto

the coming of the Lord shall not prevent them which are asleep. For the Lord himself

shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the

trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first: Then we which are alive and remain

shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so

shall we ever be with the Lord. Wherefore comfort one another with these words.

My Niece

This picture reminds me of my niece Endora. We were the bestest of friends. She was only 5 years younger than me. She was so bubbly, so funny, so compassionate, so caring, and so full of life. She was more than family - she was my friend. Just a few of the many times I remember - making quilts for Christmas presents, playing games, going swimming, going shopping, trips to the park, building snowmen, making cookies and fudge, the late night phone calls, and so many more memories. Memories of all the good times, the happy times, the sad times, the laughter, the tears, the joy, the sadness. So many little things will trigger a memory - will bring her to my mind. Sometimes it is hard, but I find that as time goes by - I cherish each memory, each image that brings her to mind ----and I Smile.

I Want It Now

Wait on the Lord: be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I say, on the Lord. (Psalm 27:14 KJV)

Waiting - Patience - Waiting. I am not good at either one of these. Growing up in this society with fast food places on every corner. We live in a "I want it now society" - impatience is more the norm than not.
On any given day, you can go through a drive thru at any fast food eating joint, a drive thru at the bank to withdraw or deposit money, a drive thru at the pharmacy to drop off or pick up prescriptions, and so many more places. The wait time is short and if the wait is too long, then people often will just get out of line and drive off. No one likes to wait for long.
However I do realize and understand that some things are better over time. For instance, some food like watergate salad or chili - are always better the next day once the flavors mix together more. A marinate takes time for it to flavor a piece of steak. Quilts - buying one is an easy fast fix. However, taking the time to find perfect material, cut out each piece, place and sew each quilt block then piece them together - all the makings for a unique special quilt for a loved one. Even in nature - tilling, fertilizing, planting a seed, then watching, watering, weeding - all to get the end product of a juicy flavorful piece of fruit or crunchy vegetable.
None of these are fast fixes, but all are worth the wait. If time and waiting can bring about such enjoyable and pleasurable things - Just think of what time and waiting on the Lord can bring about - his promises are sure. We can trust His Word and stand on each promise written there.

Father's Love

Last night and today have not been good. I am just not feeling up to par - physically okay, but emotionally just blah and out of sorts. Even when around friends - it does not seem like we are connecting. I seem to be on the outside looking in at all transactions or communications that are taking place - not really a part of it - not really fitting in or connecting with anyone else. The solution? Not sure, but coming home after being gone for awhile - I find Miss Cleo here. She is always loving and wants some attention. She wants held, to snuggle, and to be petted. Her motor just purrs away. After a short period of time, she is ready to get down and play. She races from couch to chair to table. She chases her toys. She runs over by the door then back to where I am sitting at the computer. She is such a joy. I know that she seems oblivious to what I am doing, but know that as soon as I get up to leave - she will follow me. She will be right there to make sure I am not alone.
When everyone seems so distant and far away, when I am feeling like a LONER with no connection to anyone on this earth. When I feel like no one cares - I can look at this kitten (a gift from God) and know that I am NOT alone. I am cared for by my heavenly Father. I am loved and will continue to be loved. Miss Cleo may be just a kitten, but she helps me to see and feel the Father's love for me. I praise God and thank Him often for bringing me a small furry bundle of love and joy.

Trusting Sleep

Yesterday was absolutely beautiful! The temperature was just a little on the cool side, but oh my how the sun was shining brightly. I decided to take a drive and went to visit my old neighborhood. My neice and her husband live there now. It was so much fun and seemed like old times. Thanks girl I enjoyed it very much and we will have to do it again soon.

The drive home was so long (about an hour). I left before it got dark but that all changed soon. I am finding out just how old I am getting - the darkness, the car lights, and me do not get along that well anymore. It doesn't help matters that I seldom drive after dark anymore. Or that the road I traveled went through the country with lots of twists-n-turns and wooded areas so is a frequent hangout for wildlife. However, I did only seen one deer on the whole trip and I did arrive home safe and sound. Albeit, I will admit I said quite a few prayers during the drive and ended up calling a friend for the last leg of the trip. Thank God for friends.



Do you ever have your sleep pattern interrupted? I work night shift (12 hour shifts) which makes my sleep time to be very erratic at times. On the nights I have to go into work I try to lay down for at least a few hours so I can function during the shift. Other times, my sleep can be effected by what is going on - if I am stressed out, worried, or thinking about the past, the unknown, all sorts of things that will overflow into my sleeping/dream time. However, I know that there is always someone there watching over me. Someone who will protect me even when I am sleeping. On those particularly bad days/nights - a scripture I like to read or recite to myself before going to sleep is found in Psalm 4:8.

I will both lay me down in peace, and sleep: for thou, Lord, only makest me
dwell in saftety. (KJV)

I know I can stand on his promise - the promise of peace, of sleep, of safety. He is an awesome God.

God on the Mountain

God on the Mountain is one of my favorite songs. The song has such meaning and Linda Randal puts such feeling and depth to the song. Each time I hear it the song just touches my soul.

Field of Flowers

While driving through the park I seen this large patch of flowers. They were so numerous and so very beautiful. Just looking at them brought to mind the scripture from the book of Matthew.

And why take ye thought for rainment? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow; they toil not, neither do they spin: And yet I say unto you, That even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. Wherefore, if God so clothe the grass of the field, which today is, and tomorrow is cast into the oven, shall he not much more clothe you, O ye of little faith? (Matthew 6:28-30 KJV)

Sometimes I do not think I have very much faith, I tend to worry about the daily cares of life, the bills, my health, my job, my family/friends. All things that are important. However, I find that I need to trust God more - to trust him to supply my needs. Sometimes it just takes something like seeing a field of beautiful flowers to remember his Word and his promises.