Better Late than Never

With Facebook, Yahoo mail and blogger, I can hardly keep up. (Not to mention the game that I'm addicted to - hee hee.) Too, I feel that my blog is rather boring to everyone except my family, but I get reprimanded when I get lazy about it. So,

Work has been sooooooo busy lately. We have a trial that starts Friday of this week and is supposed to last through all of next week. I had to go in to the office Saturday morning with several others, and another crew will be there this Saturday. My boss looks so tired, but he keeps pressing on trying to do the best job possible for his clients. By this time in his life, he should be able to lighten up but has such a work load there's no way he can slow down. Yes, we have two other attorneys in the office, but they also have a heavy load. I hope that means I have job security. It's a different ballgame from the one I've been involved with the past 18 years, i.e. the defense side. Being on the prosecuting side is so much more involved, so many more details to remember and do. It's a good thing I love it and am motivated by the load. Today, we had the clients in whose trial is next week and took them to lunch. I was asked by the boss's wife to go along as well and had a delightful time with them. They are in their 80s but had such a good sense of humor and wit.

I'm getting droopy so guess that means I should shut this down and get some sleep.

Saturday Night Live!

No, not the TV program - just me and my doings. It is being a good weekend, and I'm looking forward to tomorrow. Last night, Dianne, Emily and I went to Tallahassee to the Lighthouse Children's Home to hear The Hayes Family and The Reggie Saddler Family. I love both groups, and it was a wonderful concert. Emily spent the night with me, of course, and today we ran errands, got my hair cut, took her home, and then went to dinner with Herman and Ramona and after dinner to a movie (The Couples Retreat). I'm planning to fix lunch tomorrow for Angela and family. It's been a long time since I did a Sunday lunch at home for them, so I was feeling that it was overdue. I just got home and now have a few things to do before bedtime.

Middle of the Week

Guess I should do what Jawan does - call it "wordless Wednesday" and just post a picture. ha. Of course, I don't have any cute ones like she does. Anyway, I'll get fussed at by a couple or three someones if I don't post something. ha.

It's been a good week so far. I have so many blessings in friends and family who keep in touch and let me know I matter to them. You know who you are, so THANKS from the bottom of my heart. I've struggled a bit this past week with my depression bouts but have found that if I take my medicine at night, I don't wake in the morning with it. This week has been much better. My job keeps me so busy I can hardly think, so I don't know how this stuff gets through. But, I know whose I am, and HE has promised to walk with me "through" it all. One of my favorite verses in the Bible is: "And it came to pass..." Everything we experience does eventually pass and comes our way for a reason. I just hope I pass the test and learn the lessons I need to learn in the midst.

As always, I'm looking forward to the weekend. Dianne and I plan to go to the Lighthouse Children's Home on Friday night to hear The Hayes Family and The Reggie Sadler Family. They are both wonderful groups, so it will be a great outing with a dear friend. More about that later. I'm sure also that Emily will be with me most of the weekend as well, and I always enjoy her.

New Experience!

Yes, I did something last night I never thought I would have done. A friend and former co-worker (Nancy) at another job called me about mid-afternoon and asked if I would go with her to Tallahassee to the Civic Center to see "So You Think You Can Dance!" That's something I really am not into, but I did appreciate her thinking of me and it was something different to do. We went, the Center was full, it was terribly loud, but some of the most amazing dancers I've ever seen to be so young. They had the top 10 from season 5 that a lot of you will be familiar with. I felt really out of my comfort zone but enjoyed the outing. She and I left early enough to stop at Applebees in Tallahassee and eat before going to the performance. Got home last night about midnight.

Come this Friday night, God willing, Dianne and I are going to the Childrens' Lighthouse in Tallahassee to hear the Hayes Family and the Reggie Sadler Family. Now that's my love - Southern Gospel! I love to be touched by the music and words and to be fed spiritually. I guess it's a good thing we are not all alike in our tastes, as it takes one to make us appreciate the other. I do look forward to being with friends on whatever the outing.

Emily spent this past Friday night with me and on Saturday we delivered Cross Creek cards and she talked me into going to the Imagination Unlimited to let her paint something. It's so hard to say "no" to grandchildren, so I caved. Andrew and Luke, I owe you one on your next visit. ha.

I'm looking forward to the coming week and plan to have a good one. Hope all of you do, too.

So Many Needs!

We are a needy people. Just in my own family, there are financial needs, spiritual needs, emotional needs, and physical needs. I know my family is not unique and I know that thousands, even millions, of people before have gone through the same trials. It is such a comfort to know that our God has promised to meet our NEEDS - not wants - and knows every detail of our lives. He has also promised to see us through whatever trials come our way. There's a song by the Perrys that's called "The Potter Knows The Clay." What a powerful reminder that we are clay in the Potter's hands, and he has a plan to mold us into what He wants us to be. We have to yield to the wheel and His hands and be thankful that He cares enough to work on us. In spite of how it appears, He is in control! Thank you, Jesus!!!

Now that I've preached to myself (and maybe to someone else), I'll just say I am thankful for the blessings in my life. I spent three days last week with my Columbus grandchildren while their mom and dad took a 10th anniversary trip. What a joy it was to play with them, read to them, sing wih them, feed them, rock, hold and finally pray with them at mealtime and before bedtime. It was amazing to hear the spiritual songs they knew and the rules of the home. The two boys had a soccer game on Saturday morning (the coldest day so far this year), and their team won. Andrew was the star of the game and made seven of the eight goals. Luke blocked at least two goals and got in several good kicks to the ball when not the goalie. Both of them played the whole game. Andrew and a player on the other team collided with each other in a head butt, so he went home with a knot on his cheek. As much as I love all of them, it's been a long time since I had all of those chores to do (picking them up from school on Thursday when I got there, taking them home and fixing dinner, giving baths, reading stores, praying with them, putting the to bed; then in the mornings getting them up, fed, dressed, teeth brushed, lunches packed, and dropping off at school, taking them to Cici's for pizza, playing outside, etc. etc. etc.). So, I was a wee bit tired by the time I got home. Guess I'm spoiled by being by myself, doing what I want, when I want or not. But, by my age, I've earned it and don't feel guilty. On the other hand, anytime my grandchildren need me, I'll be there!

Ok, time has gotten away from me again. I must get to bed as I was late this morning due to the fact I got my oil changed in the car before going in. I've decided I will never get "caught up" in my job but do need to get there a little early to get a handle on the day.

Forgive me, Lord

If you read my comment on Facebook, you know that I said I feel like the Apostle Paul in that "the things I don't want to do, I do; and the things I want to do, I don't." Here it is 11:00 p.m. and I've not done my quiet time. Instead, I've watched Dancing With the Stars, played on the computer, ate, washed dishes, etc. Why do I put that off? I'm thankful for God's forgiveness, but I know He must get so disappointed and exasperated with his children. I am so disobedient. Therefore, I'm cutting this short, turning off the TV and computer, and going to my room to read my Bible. G'nite.

Time Challenged

It's been such a busy week I've hardly had time to think. Let's see, Wednesday night was church, Thursday night to Madison, FL to the Jellystone Park to hear Ethan and his group along with Gold City, Friday night to Steve's church to hear the Blackwood Gospel Quartet, and Saturday night to another church where Ethan's group sang. I've had a wonderful dose of Southern Gospel music and loved every minute of it. Steve filled in with Ethan's group on Thursday and Saturday nights and did an awesome job singing tenor when he is really a baritone. Something wonderful has happened as a result that only God could have orchestrated. A friend of mine went with me to the sings on both Friday night and Saturday nights. She is not "into" quartet music like I am but does enjoy it. She was really impressed with Ethan's voice and spirit. Today at her church, another gospel group was there. To make a long story short, she told the group about Ethan and they want to talk to him!!!!!!! One of their members wants to drop out and they are looking for someone to replace him. Guess what part he sings! You got it - baritone. He asked that Ethan call him this Tuesday night so I can hardly wait to see what happens.

I've lived in Thomasville now for 31 years and have never been to the "Fly-In" at our little airport until this weekend. There were over 100 airplanes there, and it was quite interesting to walk around and look at them. The above (bottom) is a picture of the plane used in making the movie "Amelia" that is soon to be released and is a replica of the one Amelia Earhart flew on her last voyage. The middle picture is of one that was just so cute I had to include it. Click on it to make it bigger so you can see its tongue and eyes. Of course, most of the planes were small ones, but there was also a jet in the hangar as you can see (top).

This next week, I'll be leaving on Wednesday to go to Columbus to babysit my three grandchildren while their parents go on a 10th anniversary get-away for a couple of days. So, it will be a short work week and put me that much farther behind, but it will be worth it. Gotta go do a few things before bedtime so will catch you later.

Tuesday Tediousness

Boy, it has been a busy day. Came home tired and then went and walked, so I'm really pooped. I have decided this new job of mine is one that I will NEVER get caught up on. Besides what's already on my "to-do" list, more is added every day. I just pray for patience, wisdom, energy and stick-to-it-ive-ness. Tomorrow will be easier as I will be in the Tallahassee office - just more behind for the day after. You see what I mean?! But I'm so thankful to God for the gift of being able to work, for providing a wonderful job for me, and for the skill and energy to tackle it every day. I'm thankful for family and friends to interact with who love me in spite of my faults.

I haven't had dinner yet and my show (Dancing With the Stars) will be on shortly. So, I'm gonna find something to eat, watch the show, and work on my Women's Ministry scrapbook.

Back to Normal

Yep, I took Abigail back to her parents today and missed her by the time we were out of sight. She is a precious gift, and I enjoyed her so much. She went to church with me this morning and went right into her age group with no problem. When I picked her up, she had a box labeled Noah's Ark and a whole bunch of plastic animals and two clothes pins with faces drawn on for Noah and Mrs. Noah. She just soaks up the teachings and is being taught by her parents the important things, like the following:

Jawan: Abigail, who made you?
Abigail: God.
Jawan: Who else did He make?
Abigail: Everybody.
Jawan: Why did He make you?
Abigail: For His glory (waving hands in the air).
Jawan: How much does He love you?
Abigail: This much (spreads her arms straight out).

For a 2 year old, that's not bad, and I'm so glad she learns quickly. I know having two sons-in-law who are pastors is no guarantee that all will go well for the children, but I do believe that they are being given a firm foundation on which to stand. Thank you Steve and Angela, Mitch and Jawan for my six wonderful grandchildren and for bringing them up in the house and Word of the Lord!

Saturday Joy!

It's not often I get alone time with my 2 year old granddaughter, Abigail, but this is one of those times. I met Jawan in Albany yesterday and brough Abigail home with me for the weekend. She is such a joy, such a chatterbox (although I don't understand most of what she says), and such an easy child to have around. I rocked her to sleep shortly after we got home last night, and neither of us got up until about 8:00 a.m. this morning. We have a full day ahead of us so we must get on with it, i.e. pet store, Belks, recycling bins, the dump, etc. So, more later about what we have done. Just wanted her mom to know that all is well with her wee one.

Compelled

Yes, now that I am blogging again, I am drawn to this computer and feel that I HAVE to say something! ha. I spent today in our Tallahassee office and really enjoyed it -- no phones to deal with! The day went fast, and I have loads to do tomorrow.

Church tonight was good. Bro. Ken is teaching on the three tenses of salvation: (1) regeneration, (2) sanctification and (3) glorification. I don't quite understand why he refers to them as "tenses" unless he means the past (regeneration), present (sanctification) and future (glorification). That makes perfect sense; don't know why I didn't "get" it sooner.

Tomorrow is my oldest daughter's birthday - she will be 41!!! Wow, can it be that I have a child that old?!? I'm very proud of her and the three grandchildren she produced for me. She married a wonderful man who is a pastor, and I love my son-in-law. I feel a shopping spree coming on tomorrow night for her.

Ok, my eyelids are getting droopier by the minute. Must put them to bed. G'nite!

Meandering

Ok, I've got a couple of regulars, one of which I knew would be my daughter. I've been walking again this afternoon in spite of my broken toe. Do those things ever get well? It's my little toe on he left foot and boy is it painful when I try to wear an enclosed shoe. Don't know what I'll do if it gets too cool for sandal-type shoes. But I'm not going to complain about a little uncomfort in a toe when so many people have really big pains. I'm so thankful I can walk!!

I have a new task to look forward to tomorrow in my job. We have a satellite office in Tallahassee that the attorneys go to once a week to meet with clients in that area. The assistant who usually goes with them is in the hospital, so I've been asked to go. I'm looking forward to it so I'll know what goes on there. Of course, it means getting up a little earlier and leaving a bit earlier since the drive is longer. It will remind me of 18 years of driving back and forth to Tallahassee every day. It sure has been nice since April of this year to cut that drive in half.

Is anybody out there hooked on "Dancing With the Stars?" It comes on in about 38 minutes, so I'm going to cut this short and see who gets sent home tonight. That and HGTV are about all worth watching but I love them both. Oh and the Braves are playing too, so I've got lots to flip back and forth to keep up with. Busy night!!

Anybody out there?

Now that I'm back into blogging a bit, I don't think anyone is reading. ha. Oh well, guess it's for my benefit anyway. I walked this afternoon for the first time in weeks and am very sleepy. I'm listening to the Braves as I do this (they are winning again!) and want to switch to Dancin' With the Stars to see how that's going. BUT, I also need to do my Bible study. I've sat here and checked my e-mail and played my game so must move on.

It is being and has been a great weekend. Dianne, Emily and I went to hear The Dixie Echoes and Greater Vision last night at the Children's Lighthouse Home in Tallahassee. They were both wonderful groups, but I think The Dixie Echoes were my favorite. Wow, can they evermore sing and interact with the audience. Today, Dianne, Emily and I went to Valdosta (really Lake Park) to the outlet mall and shopped all afternoon. The only thing I bought was food and books - three for me and three for Emily. We found a bookstore that really is an outlet - hardback books anywhere from $.99 to $7.00. I could have spent the whole afternoon there but that was our last stop and we were all very tired. Angela and Steve got home around 6:30, so I took their child back to them around 7:00. Emily was anxious to see her parents but wanted to come back to my house. ha. She's been with me since Tuesday, so you'd think she'd be ready to go home. NOT! I'm so glad my grandchildren love to come to my house. Angela and Steve had a great trip to Gatlinburg for the conference and only had one incident that scared them really bad. They had a few hours of free time and decided to ride the ski lift to the top of the mountain. Something happened that jammed the cable and they were stranded in mid air for about 45 minutes. I doubt they will be getting on another one of those for a looooooooong time. Tomorrow is Sunday and I'm looking forward to being in God's house with my Christian brothers and sisters and hearing the Word. Then lunch with another group of friends. I am so blessed! Thank you, Lord, for your blessings on me.

Three day post!

I know it's been three days since I blogged, but gracious I've been busy!!! My friend Dianne and I went to the dinner theater on Saturday night and enjoyed a wonderful dinner and live play. Our Bible conference (aka revival) started Sunday, so I've been to church again tonight. The guest minister is wonderful, and the message tonight was especially for me. The title of his sermon was "The Refining Fire for Believers." He gave four lessons to learn about trials and I took great notes. I may even get a tape of it as I need to hear it at least once a week. Over the weekend and this morning, my old "stuff" (Satan and his tactics) has been trying to overpower me again, so the message was so on point for my needs. I'm thankful that I have a job that I love to go to every day and keep my mind busy. This is short because I haven't had any dinner yet and am hungry!

Weekend action!

Bet that got your attention. ha. I lead such a dull life to most people, but I am so thankful that I woke up this morning, have air to breathe, food to eat, a family to love, a church to attend, and most of all a God who loves me in spite of my flaws. This time last Saturday, we were already into our ladies' conference being blessed with spiritual and physical food. Today, I am cleaning house, washing clothes, enjoying my 9 year old granddaughter and looking forward to tonight when Dianne and I go to Monticello, FL to the Opera House for dinner and a play (Fiddler on the Roof).

I made a decision yesterday that I paid for last night. I was out of Diet Coke and decided I wouldn't buy more and try to wein myself off them and start drinking water. So, I headed to Publix and bought water. Wow, I had a headache come on that stayed with me all night. When I got up this morning, I felt like a drug addict. I combed this house for a Coke can with some "leftover" in it to try to get rid of the headache. Finally found one in my car that had been there for two days. ha. But you know what? It helped. So, I guess I shouldn't try to quit cold turkey but taper off instead. I sure do love those things, so it will be hard, especially the headaches. Can anyone relate? I know my sister and brother can. They are as addicted as I am.

Gotta get busy. More later.

Beat ya!

I was afraid my daughter would hack into my blog again and write her own thing for me, but I think I beat her. ha. It's been so long since I've done this that I may sound little loopy. I sometimes wonder why I blog as I don't know if anyone but my family ever clicks in or cares, but I get fussed at if I don't. So, I'll try.

We had an awesome ladies' conference this past weekend with Linda Goldfarb from San Antonio, TX as the guest speaker, my first cousin (Virginia Trenor from Aberdeen, MS) presenting the comedy (Minnie Pearl impersonator), and my third cousin from Oxford, MS (Mary Chrestman - go Ole Miss!) as her straight person, and Victory Song from Valdosta, GA (a trio) that presented the music. Our own Julie Bumgardner prepared and served a delicious meal and decorated the fellowship hall and sanctuary. The only way it could have been a better conference would have been for the whole world, well, maybe not the whole world, but a bigger attendance. However, we doubled our attendance from last year, so that's not bad! Hearts were touched, funny bones were tickled, old friendships renewed and bodies nourished. It was a double blessing for me as Virginia and I grew up together in Mississippi and she had never been to my house and neither had Mary. We had such a good time together and, along with our speaker, shopped a lot! I'm already thinking about next year. ha.

You know, God has a way of putting us where He wants us and it's usually in a place where we can be used of Him. If you've read by Face Book page, you know that I love my job. The main thing I don't like about it is the language I hear every day. Today, one of the guys told me that cursing was good because it relieves a lot of inner tension. Can you believe that?! He said he read an article that pointed that out and would print it out for me. I told him in return I would print out something for him. I've already thought of several scriptures that talk about idle words, corrupt words, foolish talk, etc. God's Word is sharper than a two-edged sword, so I hope it clips his tongue. Pray that I will be an example of what a Christian should be and that I can present this in a loving way.

I put a color on my hair last night and feel so much younger! ha. Virginia inspired me as hers is so pretty. Hope all of you have a peaceful and restful night.

Her blog has been hijacked....

Ok, this is Jawan....Wanda's daughter. I'm hijacking her blog. She has been missing in blogaction because she forgot her password. I hacked into her hardware (her brain) and broke into the system. Actually, Mom is standing over my shoulder giggling as I type. Yes, it's 1:13 a.m. - I'm up at my usual hour and Mom says she can't sleep. Oh well....she'll be back later. If not, I now know her "secret information" and will blog incognito.

Later, taters!

Weekend With Stuart

Wow, I had a wonderful weekend with my son and future daughter-in-law and her mom. I got there on Friday afternoon, checked in at the gate to the subdivision, and spent the next two days getting to know Kristi's mom, Connie. I really loved her and feel if we lived close together we could be really good friends. They have a gorgeous home but she is so down to earth, fun, sweet and kind, that I don't even mind the thought of her coming to my humble little house whenever she can. We ate lasagne, salad, garlic bread, 14-layer chocolate cake, fruit, and so much other stuff that I fear to step on the scales. However, I walked this afternoon and plan to do so a couple more times this week and hope the pounds don't show up. ha.

What made the weekend so much more enjoyable was that a BIG prayer was answered. I had only been at Connie's with Stuart for about 15 to 20 minutes when his cell phone rang. He stepped outside to answer it, and when he came in, he announced that he was now employed!!!!!!! He's been without a job for a while now but he and we knew God would provide in His timing. He is now employed with American International Movers -- a company that moves military personnel from one base to another. Stuart will be in charge of coordinating the moves, which will be something totally different from what he is used to doing, and he is excited. There's a lot of room for growth in this company, so I'm praying he will work hard and make a great career for himself.

Stuart's and Kristi's wedding is July 18th and the job has taken a lot of stress off of him. Kristi is kinda getting antsy as she still has a list of things to do. We did make some progress while I was there in that she chose the restaurant for the rehearsal dinner. Now I just have to make the call and get the details nailed down. Also, we went to Men's Warehouse and got the tuxedos chosen and while there Stuart got measured and fitted for his. Come to think about it, I need to go shopping for a dress as well. Hmmmmmm.....

There's a whole list of things I need to be doing as well (unrelated to the wedding): Write three thank-you notes, plan next month's ladies' meeting program, study my Sunday School lesson, pay several bills, clean off my dresser and chest as I have Mississippi company coming Thursday afternoon and plan to let her sleep in my room, make several phone calls, and on and on I could go. So why am I sitting here yakking? I'm waiting for some pictures to upload to Kodak Gallery so I can order prints. Guess I better check to see if they are done.

Until next time...Wanda.

No subject

I've run out of titles! Anyway, I've been very busy getting acquainted with my new job, the people, the routine, details, etc. It seems to be getting busier by the day - guess the more I learn the more I have to do. That's okay because all of the staff have been super helpful and kind, which makes the learning process so much more enjoyable. The only complaint I have is about the language I hear. It could be a lot worse, but I wish it was not an issue. Maybe this is my new mission field!

I had a blessed Mother's Day. I got a gift and card in the mail from Jawan on Saturday, ate lunch with and got a gift from Angela and family on Sunday, got a call from Stuart on Sunday afternoo0n, as well as one later from Kristi (my soon-to-be daughter-in-law). So, have the day start off in church, all of the in-between attention, and ending it in church made it a great day.

I'm looking forward to this weekend as I'll be going to Stuart's to get some wedding plans (rehearsal dinner mostly) nailed down. I'll get to meet Kristi's mom and step-day and some of her family as well. I've made arrangements for my backup to play at church for me on Sunday so I can stay over and go to church with Stuart and Kristi and come home Sunday afternoon. I'll have more to share with you when I get home.

We had our ladies' meeting tonight and had 12 in attendance (only about half of what should have been there). Our pastor's wife brought the devotional, which was really good and something all of us should continually strive for: concern, compassion and commitment. I just wish I could get through to the ones who don't come these three characteristics, especially about commitment.

I know it's short, but, hey, it's something! Until next time...Wanda.

New Job!

I just finished my second day on the new job and love it!!! Of course, I haven't done any work yet but tomorrow should be the real "start" for that. I've been getting acquainted with the staff, procedures, office layout, etc. Everyone has been really friendly and helpful, and I've already made friends with the bookkeeper (she's my age) and went to lunch with her today. I won't be working for any particular attorney and have been assigned one duty of being the PR person for the firm when a new potential case is called in. I took one today and was complimented on how I handled it. Whew! The main boss told me today that tomorrow we would have a meeting and divide up some of the files (about 30 are coming to me) and that would keep me really busy. You wouldn't believe the number of cases they currently handle. It's unbelievable and I wonder how they keep up with all of it. Guess I'm about to find out. ha. I'm having to shift from the defense mode to the prosecuting mode, which may take a while. This is a plaintiff's firm, which explains their case load. The drive to work is about 11 miles shorter with much less traffic, so it only takes about 25-30 minutes to get to work vs. an hour on the old job. I can sleep later, leave later, and get home earlier. Nothing wrong with that picture, right?

Getting home earlier, I was able to walk at the lake this afternoon. Since this is my first day to get back into the routine, I only walked two miles. My goal is to walk three miles a day three times a week and drop 20-30 pounds before Stuart's wedding in July. I just pray that I'll stick to it!

Will update you more later. Until next time...Wanda.

News! News!

I am so excited and thankful! I have a new job! I start in one week at another law firm in another town that's closer with much less traffic. This commute should take about an hour and a half off my drive time each day, so that will be a blessing. I give all the glory to God because He worked it out, and I thank each of you who prayed for me to find something. It's really a bad time to be job hunting, but God knew his plan and provided just what I need. Wow! I'll let you know once I start how things progress. I do know the work load will be heavier as this is a plaintiffs' firm. For the last 18 years, I've worked for a defense firm, so I gotta change horses and learn this program. ha.

I'm also excited about my youngest daughter and her family coming to my house this week during Spring break. Since the oldest, her husband and three children live here, all of them will be here at some point (or several points) during the week. Two grandchildren have birthdays on Wednesday (Emily -Angela's youngest - will be 9 and Andrew - Jawan's oldest - will be 5 - born on the same date four years apart). So, we're gonna party!

My house guest is back for six months, so I have a teenager in the house once more. Jon is a wonderful young guy and I enjoy having him around. I found out this morning that he is a really heavy sleeper. His alarm began buzzing at 7:15 this morning just as I was getting up and buzzed for the next 33 minutes before he turned it off. I was about to check on him to be sure he was still alive! ha. If I had not been taking a shower, putting on makeup with the radio on, I probably would have knocked on his door and aroused him. But, he finally turned it off, got up, dressed and made it to Sunday School and church on time.

My grandson, Ethan (age 17), is now singing with two other guys in a group called Life Song from Madison, FL. Last night (Saturday), they did their first concert at Jelly Stone Park in Madison, so I, my friend Dianne, Jon, and Angela and family all went. One of the guy's mom had prepared a free spaghetti dinner and dessert. Yum, it was sooooo good! I am so proud of Ethan. He has a wonderful voice and is having so much fun singing with the other two. One of them is married but the other one is not. They plan to do a CD in June so I'll be reporting back to you on that.

After a week of pouring rain, Friday and Saturday were absolutely gorgeous - warm (almost hot) with blue skies without a cloud to be seen. Today was overcast and sprinkly and it's supposed to rain some more this week and turn cooler. Seems it usually does that just before Easter. I hope all of you have a great week and celebrate our Lord's resurrection on this coming Sunday with a day of worship and reflection on what a sacrifice Jesus made for us so that our sins could be forgiven. He gave his life - let's give Him ours!

Until next time...Wanda.

Still Waiting!

Still nothing definite to report where my job situation is concerned. I've made calls, sent resumes, talked to former employees/attorneys, and my main boss who retired at the end of December is doing what he can to help. He's contacted two different firms on my behalf so, hopefully, I'll hear something from one of them. I have perfect peace about the situation because I know (as one of the girls in my Sunday School class reminded me) that when one door closes another better one opens. Therefore, I am meandering down the hallway of life waiting for the right door to open. I do appreciate everyone's prayers, however, and know that is where the power is. Please keep it up, and I'll keep you posted on what God is doing.

I had a wonderful weekend and spent some great "friend" time with two gals that I enjoy being with. One is a regular that I see on a weekly basis, but the other is a long-time friend who lives two houses down from me that I seldom see. The three of us left my house at 7:00 a.m. on Saturday morning and drove to Tallahassee and hit a yard sale at Thomasville Road Baptist Church, went to What-A-Burger for breakfast, mosied on to Bealls (not the outlet store but the real thing) where all three of us bought shoes, shirts and pants, from there to Target, then to Subway for lunch, then to Goodwill, then to Kohls and finally back home by 4:30. Needless to say, we shopped til we dropped! But it was a beautiful day, and we made memories.

My house guest (John, age 19) will be returning on Wednesday to take another course at the Technical College and will probably be here for several months. He's a sweetie, and I enjoy having him. Of course, being a teenager, he's out and about a lot of the time and doesn't spend a whole lot of time sitting with me. ha. But he's kind, polite, thoughtful of me, and very well mannered. I'm sure when he gets here I'll see a lot more of my own grandson as they are good friends. I will spend tomorrow night getting his room ready.

My eyelids are getting droopy so, until next time...Wanda.

Busy Week!

This is going to be a busy week. Our revival started today and I'll be at church each nght through Wednesday. Our evangelist is 86 years old and does a wonderful job. This is his third visit to our church, and we look forward to having him each time. His wife is 84 and played the accordian tonight and sang a special. They are a precious couple (will have been married 67 years as of 4/3/09).

I should find out tomorrow something about what our office is going to do and what my job situation will be. I know that God already knows my future and is going ahead of me to prepare the way. I just hope I will know His will and follow His directions. I'll keep you posted on the outcome.

I had the opportunity to go to dinner last night with my friends Ramona, Herman and Dottie. Since they've joined another church, our visits are not quite so frequent. Then today, I had lunch with my pastor, his wife, the visiting evangelist and his wife. So, I've been in wonderful company most of the weekend. The rest of the weekend consisted of cleaning house and grocery shopping.

On a personal note, please keep me in your prayers as I've been wrestling this week with more of the depression/spiritual warfare. Not nearly as bad but enough to affect my mood. Yes, I'm still taking the medicine and will continue but Satan and his cohorts are busily trying to shoot their darts at my mind.

Hope all of you have a great week. Until next time...Wanda.

Life Is Good!

I'm just feeling very blessed tonight and am excited!! The Destin Women's Conference is this weekend, and I'm leaving Friday morning with a friend for a weekend of spiritual renewal. I can hardly wait!

Also, I've just booked a speaker for our annual Ladies' Conference at my church in September and can't believe (well, I can because God allowed it) I already have someone lined up - Linda Goldfarb from Texas. I met her last year when she spoke at the conference in Destin and just fell in love with her. If you want to learn more about her, just type her name in your Google browser and her site will pop up. I know it sounds like I'm getting a really early start, and I am, but I don't want to be rushed. This way we'll have plenty of time to make plans to ensure that the day will be a blessing to all. I still have to find someone to do special music. Any suggestions?

Ramona and I finally got back together tonight and walked for the first time in weeks/months? I'll probably be stiff in the morning, but it sure felt good at the time. I've got to stick with it so I can be slim and trim for Stuart's wedding this summer. ha. They haven't nailed down a date just yet but are thinking July. However, and I haven't told him this yet, Angela says July is not a good month as far as their family is concerned. Ethan is going back to the Ben Speer School of Music in Nashville and they will be taking him up there the weekend of July 11th. He will be there two weeks (which means he will be there the weekend of the 18th) and they will go back and pick him up the weekend of the 25th. I'm sure Stuart will want ALL of his family to be there, so I'm hoping they can plan their wedding for the latter part of June or the first of August.

Until next time...Wanda.

Hmmmmmm

Stuart and Kristi


I know it's been a while and I should have loads of things to share. So let's see what I can think of. First of all, and probably the most exciting, is that my son has made it official -- he finally proposed to Kristi and is engaged!!! They haven't set a date yet (to my knowledge), so I don't know how excited I should be. ha. I don't think it will be a long engagement as they are both ready for a family (he's 33; she's 34). I am very happy with his choice and can't wait to have her as a part of our family. Just hope she feels the same way. I also look forward to meeting her family and sharing our children and, hopefully, grandchildren.



I took this afternoon off work and played the piano for a funeral at our church. The man who died was at church last Sunday, at the men's meeting on Tuesday night, and was gone by Friday. Just another proof that life is fragile, short, and unpredictable. Thankfully, this man was prepared to go. I thought our pastor did a wonderful job on the sermon ("My times are in His hands") and presented the gospel very plainly. The widow has shown great strength and has three sons, three daughters-in-law, and several grandchildren and one great grandchild. So, she will be surrounded by love and support. She said that she planned to be back in church probably this coming Sunday.



I'm looking foward to next weekend (2/20-22) as I'm going again to the annual Women's Conference in Destin, FL with the same friend I went with last year. I love these conferences and come home recharged. I feel kinda sorry for those women who never do anything like that and just seem to be satisfied with their humdrum rut. But how do you light a fire under them? I'm just so thankful I have the opportunity to be a part and will let you know later how it was.



I took my car into the Toyota dealership this afternoon for an oil change, tire rotation, and 50,000 mile checkup. Can you believe that the car will not be two years old until 2/19 and already has 51,000 miles on it?! Driving 74 miles round trip to work every day, trips to Columbus several times a year, trip to Mississippi, trips to High Springs, FL several times a year (not anymore, however, since they've moved back), trip to Nashville, TN, etc. etc. etc. probably explains that! This afternoon while completely stopped in traffic, the fellow behind me bumped the rear of my car. Of course, we both got out of our vehicles to see what, if any, damage was done. Thankfully, no dent was made as he was already close to the rear and just rolled forward. He said his dog fell off the seat and he was trying to grab it and let the car roll. Working for a lawyer, I've seen people sue over something that minor, so I hope this man counts his blessings tonight that it was me he hit and not someone else.ha.



Happy Tuesday to everyone and have a wonderful rest of the week. Until next time...Wanda.

Random Thoughts

1. I'm tired, but no so much as yesterday. The office was at a slower pace today;
2. I walked with Ramona this afternoon and am feeling it even now - cold out there, too!;
3. Another friend called me tonight (Connie) about the Destin conference in February;
4. I've begun preparing the Sunday School lesson for this coming Sunday - "Being Yourself;"
5. Ramona gave me some homemade chili for supper;
6. My hair needs washing, which means I get up earlier tomorrow morning - ugh!
7. Angela and I are having a yard sale the last weekend in January. My kitchen is piled!;
8. Looking forward to being off Friday - have a gift card I need to use. ha;
9. So thankful for heat in the winter and air in the summer;
10. Hooked on Diet Coke and Green Tea - think I'll go have one or the other.

Aren't you glad I shared all of that! Until next time...Wanda.

Dropped the Ball!

Yes, I've already dropped the ball on my good intentions to post something every day. But you must agree that I'm doing much better. It seems I come home from work every day wiped out and just don't have the energy to put my thoughts down. Since I'm the only staff person in the office, I have a lot more responsibilities besides the regular work keeping up with the three attorneys. I made three trips to the post office today and one trip to the courthouse. Since I'm at the front desk, I have to answer the phones, take care of visitors, make coffee, switch out backup tapes from server, supervise the runner, teach her how to do different things, and still get all the regular work done. I've even reniged on walking in the afternoons but MUST get back to that.

I spent this past weekend in Columbus with my three youngest grandchildren while Jawan and Mitch went to Macon for a church meeting. They were so good, and I enjoyed my time with them so much. Andrew said he wished I could just live with them forever or at least be their neighbor. ha. It is sad that families are not in close proximity with each other like in the "olden" days. But I'm thankful for telephones and computers to stay in touch.

My four-day work week began this month, so I now have Fridays off. That I like; the salary cut I don't like. However, I'm not gonna worry about that. I'm going to enjoy the long weekends and take mini vacations. There are a lot of places I want to go (Texas to see Linda and Crystal; Mississippi to see old school chums and long-time friends; Florida in February to a women's seminar; etc. etc.) and plan to hit the road on Thursdays after work to start working on my list.

It's bedtime so until next time...Wanda.

WM/Men's Ministry Meeting

The men's ministry invited the women's ministry to have a joint meeting with them tonight, so we accepted the invitation. There was a good turnout, and the food was delicious. The men cooked the meat, and the ladies provided side dishes and desserts. Yum, as usual. One of the men gave a short devotional on Romans 13:11-14 - "Wake up, time is short!", and we all left encouraged and stuffed. Those men eat well at every meeting; we just have finger foods. ha. But you know that the wives probably have to fix most of the food at home and let them take credit for it at the meeting, which is why we only have finger foods at ours. However, we always have plenty. I got lots of pictures of the men cleaning up, washing the dishes, drying them, carrying out garbage, etc. Gotta keep my scrapbook going! Our regular meeting is usually a week later than the men's, which normally would be next Tuesday. Now I'll have plenty of time to plan for the February and March meetings. I know you are thrilled with all this chatter, so I won't bore you further. Just had to post something! Until next time...Wanda.

My Tribute

I received in the mail today from my sister a copy of the funeral program and tribute booklet for my brother-in-law, Gwin Turner. All of their children and grandchildren, as well as a daughter-in-law and a granddaughter-in-law, wrote tributes to their father/grandfather/father-in-law. What a wonderfully sweet gesture that was -- it brought tears to my eyes -- and I began to think about what I could say about him.

Gwin and Norma (my sister) got married when she was only 15 years old and had been married for 57 years. I don't know if Gwin ever dated anyone else or not (he was 20 when they married), but I know Norma had not. In fact, the two of them never dated. We all went to the same church, and he would come to our house on the pretense of visiting with my older brother who was his age. Then he and Norma would sit together on the couch in the living room watching their manners lest one of our parents should walk by. Anyway, I was only 9 years old at that time, so I never felt very "close" to Gwin. They always lived in another state while getting their education (seminary in New Orleans, LA and further seminary in Fort Worth, TX), and I didn't get to spend any time with them.

One incident that has stuck with me through the years is when I went to stay with them for a few days after their first two children were born. By then I was about 12 or 13 years old. When either of the children misbehaved or didn't mind as he thought they should, Gwin would spank. That was ok, but it was what he did next that made my blood boil. He wouldn't let them cry and made them stand in front of him and smile at him before they could walk away. I yelled at him and he then threatened me and said if I didn't hush I would be next. Would you believe that as much as I love him today and as well as his children have turned out, I still get mad when I think about that!!!???!?!!!!!!! Is that unforgiveness or what?! We've talked about that incident several times in the recent past, and they (he and his children) think it's funny. Needless to say, I didn't and still don't. Maybe one day I can turn that loose. ha.

Besides being one of the best preachers I ever heard, Gwin was one of the sweetest, kindest men I've ever known. One thing that no one else has mentioned is the fact that he loved my sister with all his heart. He was a wonderful provider (not only for her but for the whole family), gave her lavish gifts, and made it known that she was his inspiration and joy. I've visited with then on several occasions, and Gwin always went with us wherever we went (Disneyland, Universal, California Adventures, etc.), took a book/Bible with him, his cell phone, found him a spot to sit close to a concession stand and told us to go have a good time for as long as we wanted. How many men do you know that would do that? I truly wish I could have known him better, but distance prevented. He had a beautiful voice and could play the accordion, too. After reading his family's memories, I see there was a lot about him I didn't know or get to see. I do know his family loved him dearly, and he will be missed by everyone, including me.

My sister has a long hard road ahead of her adjusting to life within Gwin, but her faith is strong, she has family support, knows where he is, and will be fine. I wish I could have gone to be with her during this time, but that just wasn't possible. Maybe in a month or two we can visit. In the meantime, she's in my heart and prayers. I love you, sis!

Until next time...Wanda.

My Favorite Day

This has been a bitter sweet day. I look forward to and love going to church, which I did today. However, three couples have decided to look for another church home, so my heart has been heavy in that regard. It's a long story and one I won't discuss, but I'm praying that hearts will be convicted, forgiveness asked for and granted, and that we'll pick up the pieces and go on with God's help. My pastor and wife came by my house tonight after to church to feel me out to see how solid I am. ha. I assured them I wasn't going anywhere. Other than that, it's been a good day.

For some reason, I couldn't go to sleep last night and stayed awake until around 5:00 a.m. this morning. I got up around 2:00 a.m. and cleaned part of my bedroom and scrapbooked some pictures. I finally got about 2 hours of sleep before having to get up and start the day. After lunch I decided I would come home and take a nap on the couch. Just as I got in a comfortable position and was about to doze off, Angela and Emily came by to use the computer. I love having them and it probably was best that I didn't soundly sleep. I always feel horrible when I wake up. However, Emily entertained herself with the TV in my bedroom, Angela was on the computer, and I sat in my recliner and napped. Needless to say, I'll be heading to bed in a few minutes.

The holidays are over and it's back to work tomorrow. From now on, however, I'll be having a four-day work week and plan to make use of Fridays off. Have a great week! Until next time...Wanda.

Uneventful Saturday

Yep, it's hardly worth writing about, but I'm trying to do better at posting. Emily spent the night again last night, and we stayed up until about 2:00 a.m. this morning watching movies and playing Phase 10. She slept until 12:00 noon today. I've washed clothes, which is about the only productive thing I did all day. Emily was picked up by Angela and Steve about 6:00 p.m., and I'm listening to the Falcon/Cardinal game as I sit in here and post. Even though the day was uneventful, it was safe, pleasant, and I always enjoy my grandchildren. So, I'm thankful for God's protection and provisions for not only me but my entire family. I'm looking forward to being in church tomorrow and hearing God's Word taught. Until next time...Wanda.

Day 2 of '09

Bet you can tell that Emily and I have spent the day together, and she's also spending the night with me. Angela and Steve had to go to Tallahassee to be with a church member who had surgery this morning and dropped Emily off with me. I had been invited to a surprise birthday get together for my friend Dottie tonight, so when I got ready to take Emily home, she did not want to go. So what did I as a grandmother do? I took her with me to the party and intended to take her to her house afterwards. She set in to spend the night with me so that's what we are doing. She is watching Tinkerbell and eating a pot pie while I post. Next weekend, I'll get to be with three of the other grands. Aren't they all wonderful!!!

I got my Christmas tree and decorations down and put away today, as well as some cleanup from Christmas. Floors vacuumed, mopped, dusted, etc. I'm not done, but it looks a lot better. I plan to do more tomorrow if there is time, but have promised Angela that I will help her move the rest of their stuff from the "temporary" house to the new house. It shouldn't take long, I hope. I need a haircut, and I have a gift card that I would like to spend. ha. So much to do; so little time.

I'm so thankful for my family and friends. I talk to all of my children every week - sometimes they call me, sometimes I call them - and we always express our love for one another. Then there are my friends who, although they are all married, ALWAYS include me in their activities. That means so much, and I hope this coming year that I will reach out to them and others they way they have done for me. I was thinking today of what I was going through one year ago in January 2007. Clinical depression so severe I thought I was losing my mind. I am so thankful for the love, support, medication and grace of God that got me through. I still struggle a bit but not nearly like it was a year ago.

I'll check in tomorrow. Until then...Wanda.

Happy New Year!

This is my little family of children and grandchildren that I got to enjoy during the Christmas holidays. We had beautiful weather (as you can tell from the short sleeves) and had a wonderful time together.

The only "downer" to the holidays was the death of my brother-in-law, Gwin Turner, in California. He and my sister (Norma) had been married for 57 years (married when she was only 15) and had been together day and night for all those years. I wanted to go to be with her and the family but, under the circumstances of being Christmas, all my family at my house, getting an airline ticket on the spur of the minute, and the weather elsewhere, I just couldn't make it work. Sis understood and assured me it was ok. My heart was there with her, and I'm staying in touch often. It will be a long, hard, lonesome road for her for a long time, but her faith is strong, she knows Gwin is with Jesus, and she has her children/grandchildren for company and comfort. However, there will always be an empty spot in her heart for her mate, but it will ease somewhat as time goes on. She knows she is loved! I'm hoping to be able to go and spend a few days with her sometime soon.

Christmas has been wonderful in a lot of ways. I had five of my friends over for a night of food, fun and fellowship a couple of weeks ago. We ate, made Christmas ornaments, exchanged gifts, and just had a great "girlfriend" session. Then last night, New Year's Eve, eleven of us got together (five couples and me) at one of the couple's homes and ate and played Pictionary. What fun!!! I've spent all day today at Angela's. We ate the usual New Year's Day meal (black eye peas, ham, etc.)and then went shopping. What's a day off if you don't go to Walmart?!

I have tomorrow off from work also and plan to spend most of it cleaning house. I haven't touched this place since everyone left after Christmas, so there's lots to be done. I guess my new work arrangement starts this next week, so just pray that I can adjust to the changes. I will enjoy having every Friday off, but the pay cut will still take some getting used to. God knew seventeen years and a half ago when I was initially hired that this was going to take place, and He has promised to meet my needs. Therefore, I trust Him to do just that.

I've made no resolutions for this coming year, but I do hope I'll be better at posting. We'll see. Until next time...Wanda.