Flying Fingers

Better Late than Never

2009-11-09T22:25:00.003-05:00

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!

2009-10-31T21:42:00.002-04:00

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

2009-10-28T21:21:00.003-04:00

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!

2009-10-25T21:55:00.002-04:00

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!

2009-10-21T22:28:00.002-04:00

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

2009-10-12T22:56:00.002-04:00

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

2009-10-11T20:53:00.005-04:00

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

2009-10-06T19:25:00.002-04:00

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

2009-10-04T21:45:00.002-04:00

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!

2009-10-03T11:14:00.002-04:00

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

2009-09-30T22:33:00.002-04:00

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

2009-09-29T20:16:00.002-04:00

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?

2009-09-28T20:14:00.003-04:00

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.

2009-09-26T23:44:00.000-04:00

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!

2009-09-21T20:30:00.002-04:00

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!

2009-09-19T10:02:00.003-04:00

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!

2009-09-17T18:17:00.002-04:00

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....

2009-09-14T01:12:00.002-04:00

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

2009-05-18T21:45:00.005-04:00

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

2009-05-12T23:20:00.002-04:00

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!

2009-04-14T20:58:00.002-04:00

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!

2009-04-05T22:26:00.002-04:00

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!

2009-03-23T21:50:00.002-04:00

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!

2009-03-15T22:22:00.002-04:00

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!

2009-02-16T21:38:00.002-05:00

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

2009-02-10T19:02:00.003-05:00

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

2009-01-13T21:57:00.002-05:00

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!

2009-01-12T21:56:00.002-05:00

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

2009-01-06T20:54:00.002-05:00

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

2009-01-05T21:05:00.004-05:00

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

2009-01-04T22:19:00.002-05:00

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

2009-01-03T19:18:00.003-05:00

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

2009-01-02T22:58:00.003-05:00

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!

2009-01-01T21:54:00.003-05:00

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.

New House!

2008-12-08T21:55:00.004-05:00

Angela and Steve closed on their house today and are now officially homeowners! They are having their first dinner in their new home above.ha. Had to bring in patio chairs to sit in and eat off plastic storage boxes but, hey, it worked! .Their plan for tomorrow is to start painting. I am so happy and excited for them and can't wait for them to get their stuff in there and start decorating. I'll get a picture of the outside this weekend and post it for you to see. So, until next time...Wanda.

Deck the Halls!

2008-12-07T19:55:00.002-05:00

What does that have to do with my blog? Nothing. Just had to give it a title; however, I do have my tree up and a few Christmas touches sitting around (I believe I've already said that). Anyway, it's Sunday, my favorite day of the week, and it's been wonderful. We had a live nativity at church tonight in the sanctuary put on by children and adults, and it was really good. Afterwards, we had finger foods in the fellowship hall and I came home stuffed.

I actually have three gifts wrapped and under the tree!!! Several more are hiding in the closet waiting to be wrapped. Angela plans to come over one night and we'll wrap together since some of hers are in my closet as well. We'll have to remember which gifts each of us bought for who and see what's left to do. I fear I'm not even half through yet. She and I made a quick trip this afternoon to Belks and Walmart for a couple of items. Seems Sunday afternoons are so short that we didn't accomplish a lot but it was fun being together for an hour or so.

Grandchild No. 5 (Luke) has a birthday coming up next Sunday (the 14th) and has a party (3 years old!) this coming Saturday. I'm planning to go to the party and spend the day to help him celebrate. I think Emily (Grandchild No. 3) is going with me. It just doesn't seem possible that Luke is turning 3 - seems like only yesterday that he was born!! But, it's that way with all of them. They just grow up too fast.

We have Victorian Christmas this Thursday and Friday night here in Thomasville. I think Stuart and Kristi are coming down for that, so we'll probably go on Thursday night. That is always a fun time with the streets blocked off, all the stores open, Christmas music playing, horse and carriage rides, entertainment up and down the streets, all kinds of food concessions, seeing people/friends you haven't seen in a long time, and just getting into the Christmas mood. Hope all of you have a wonderful week.

Until next time...Wanda.

Christmas Joy!

2008-12-02T21:53:00.002-05:00

Angela and Emily came over tonight and helped me put up my Christmas tree and other do-dads. The tree looks a little bare with no gifts under it yet, so I must get busy and wrap the ones I have bought. They've been riding around in the trunk of my car for four days and I can hardly remember what's there. Oh well, now that there are no children around I can get them out and wrap away.

Speaking of Angela, they had the inspection yesterday on the house they are buying and got a good report. Would you believe they are closing on the deal this coming Monday!!! Wow, that was quick but an answer to prayer. I am so excited for them and can hardly wait to help them move and get settled in before Christmas.

The next few weeks are going to be really busy -- shopping, wrapping, going to Victorian Christmas, going to Columbus for Luke's birthday party, preparing for Christmas Day, etc. etc. So, I don't know when I may get to post again. Until next time...Wanda.

Holiday Blessings!

2008-12-01T20:52:00.003-05:00

I had a super wonderful Thanksgiving week. Why?

1) I had three days off work (usually just have two);

2) My son came home and brought his girlfriend (Kristi) whom I had never met (Shhh--I loved her!);

3) Both of my daughters and their entire families were here;

4) I had all six of my grandchildren here at the same time (see picture above);

5) We had Thanksgiving lunch at my mother-in-law's house (43 people in all);

6) I got started on my Christmas shopping;

7) We took the children to see the Christmas lights at the Flowers Bakery corporate offices (that's always a biggie for Thomasville);

8) Angela and Steve bought a house!!!! (It's beautiful and the first house they have ever owned. Well, they haven't closed the deal yet, but that should happen in a few days);

9) Had wonderful services at church Sunday morning and Sunday night;

10) All of my children had safe trips home (prayers were answered);

11) I had out-of-town guests overnight on Saturday (my grandson's girlfriend, her dad, stepmom and little brother). I loved them as well despite the fact James (the dad) beat Angela and me at Phase 10 (why is it when I teach someone how to play they always beat me?!!!);

12) I had 15 people for dinner on Saturday night, so it was quite noisy but wonderful;

13) I had lunch Sunday with my usual bunch of church friends; and

14) God is good, and I'm so thankful for family and friends.

On another note, the last time I blogged I listed several people who were on my prayer list.

1) First of all, good good news! My brother Paul has been taken off his feeding tube, the doctors were able to stretch his esophagus, and he's eating again! He says he is eating everything in sight and then going to the fridge to see if he missed anything. ha. Wow, what a miracle!

2) Second, and not good news, my brother-in-law (Gwin) in California has been diagnosed with colon cancer. However, God is in control and we are praying for another miracle. My sister is so strong in her faith and is believing and expecting that miracle. It will be exciting to see what God does. Whatever HIS decision, it will be for the best. As the song says, if I stay, I win and if I go, I win. Gwin has been preaching the gospel for 57 years and has been so faithful, so I know he would be on God's "favorites" list if He had one, which He doesn't.

I hope all of you had a great Thanksgiving and are looking forward to an exciting and blest Christmas season. Until next time...Wanda.

Unpredictable!

2008-11-20T21:14:00.002-05:00

You see, you were surprised when you clicked on here and there was something new! Wish I were more like my daughter and do it daily - don't know who she got that from. I'm just glad God made her the way she is --- GO JAWAN!

I did get the terms of my employment nailed down this week and will give it a try for two or three months (unless something better comes along) to see how I handle it. My salary will be cut but I'll be given a four-day work week. That part I like. Also, my vacation and sick leave remain as they are now, so I won't have to give any of that up. Maybe in a few months things will change at the office and we'll grow instead of shrink. In the meantime, I am still checking with different firms to see what's available. Two of my former co-workers who are at two different firms now have said they will see what they can do to help me. They are both male attorneys that I worked with for years, so they know my capabilities. In fact, I was secretary to one of them, and we got along beautifully. So, we'll see. In my devotional this morning ("Dear Jesus" by Sarah Young), it said: "...You can say, "I trust you, Jesus" regardless of how you are feeling...Then rest in the knowledge that I am taking care of you and all that concerns you." So I have found myself saying those four words many times today, and I believe with all my heart that HE will take care of me.

I know Thanksgiving is next week and we all have so much to be thankful for. However, there are still so many needs even in my own family:

(1) My brother is still on a feeding tube due to throat cancer,

(2) My brother-in-law (Gwin in California) has been in the hospital this week, came home today, but they still don't know what his problems is/was. Last week they took a quart of fluid from his lungs, today they took another quart, and 6 liters from his stomach. It is so unusual for him to be sick (he's been on a health kick for years).

(3) Angela and Steve have not zeroed in on a house yet and are really squshed (is that a word?) in the little house they are hanging out in. Meredith, of course, stayed in Florida to finish her senior year of high school and is staying with the Mom and stepdad of the boy who is staying with me to go to school here. (We just swapped kids!) Ethan, being best friends with my house guest, is also staying at my house at night. So, I have two teenagers again. Boy can they eat!!!

(4) There are several other things that are too personal to put in writing for the world to see that I continue to pray about. God isn't on my time table, so I know HE will take care of those in his own time.

But in spite of the listed things that are not taken care of yet, there are so many more that are totally right that I can thank God for. They are too numerous to list but I have named them to myself and the blessings just continue to flow. I'm looking forward to next week when all of my children and grandchildren will be here. We always have such a good family time. Stuart is bringing his girlfriend, so I'm really looking forward to meeting her.

You just never know when I'm going to post something, so please don't stop clicking in. Until next time...Wanda.

Job Dilemma!

2008-11-06T21:13:00.002-05:00

I've known for about a month that there was going to be some changes made at our office by the end of the year. I knew my main boss planned to retire and had heard that two of the other three were going with another firm, with the third going it alone. Well, this week, I learned that the two that had been offered positions with the other firm had turned down the offer and plan to stay right where they are. However, they talked with me and said that the only way they could keep the doors open was to make some drastic changes, one of which involved me. They said they would like for me to stay but, if I decide to do so, it will mean a huge cut in salary (about $13,000 a year) but that they would also give me a four-day work week.

After giving it lots of thought and prayer, I decided to check out the job market here in T'ville, hoping the pay scale has gone up in the 17-1/2 years I've been working in Florida. So, tomorrow morning, I have an interview with a law firm here. The idea of working back in town is very appealing to me and, since I'd have to take a salary cut where I am, I'd probably make that much here. So, why drive 72 miles round trip a day for the same amount?! I do still have a job, if I want to keep it, but am going to check out my options. Here's my list of pros and cons:

Pros:
I have a job;
I love my job;
I have a very easy job;
I love my bosses;
I love the atmosphere at my office;
I make a great salary (at the moment);
I have four weeks vacation per year;
It's very laid back - no pressure;
Could have a 4-day work week, which would be nice;

Cons:
Cut in salary
Still have the 72 miles round trip drive every day;
Price of gas;
Wear and tear on car;

Hmmmmm, seems the pros outweigh the cons. Oh well, after tomorrow, I'll have more information that could shift the balance. Psalms 15:22 says: "Plans go wrong with too few counselors; many counselors bring success." (LB) So, any input from anyone?

After my interview tomorrow, I'm heading to Columbus to see Jawan and family. Tomorrow is her 34th birthday, so I'm going to take her shopping! It's been several months since I've seen all of them and can hardly wait to get my hands on those three grandbabies!! Andrew and Luke are excited about my coming, but Abigail hasn't been with me enough to know who I am. I'll be there just long enough for her to get comfortable with me and then have to come home. But, Thanksgiving is just around the corner and they'll all be coming to my house.

Tomorrow is a special day for another reason as well: Angela and family are making the move back to T'ville. Sunday is Steve's first day at First Newark Baptist as their new pastor, and I plan to be at the service. That is a beautiful church and I pray that he will be there for a long time as pastor. They haven't found a house to buy yet so will be hanging out in a little house close to the church for a couple of weeks or so.

Ok, I don't blog very often and then when I do I just go on and on. It's hard getting started and then hard to stop. ha. So, until next time...Wanda.

Random Facts

2008-10-29T20:55:00.003-04:00

I caught up on reading a few blogs today, Heidi's being one of them. Between her blog and Jawan's, I decided I could think of a few random things about me that some of you might not know. Those who know me well will agree to all seven. ha. Here goes:

1. I am a procrastinator and tend to put things off but once I know I have a limited amount of time to get it done, I can ever more move!

2. I will not (unless providentially hindered) be late for anything;

3. My pet peeve is a slow driver who gets in the passing lane and won't move over, as well as those drivers who won't keep up with the traffic or go at least the speed limit! UGH!!!!!

4. I have a house guest that is not blood related;

5. I struggle with bouts of depression but medicine is helping;

6. Chicken is my favorite food;

7. I am a very insecure person in a lot of respects.

8. I don't feel my age - I'm only maybe 30 in feelings which proves that age is just a number.

I could probably go on and on, but don't want you to think I'm a total mess. If you need to question me about any of the above, feel free. Hope you enjoyed my confessions. ha. Until next time...Wanda.

Attitude, Aging, Agility

2008-10-27T22:52:00.002-04:00

Today was my mother-in-law's 90th birthday!!!!! I went out and visited with her for about an hour and am still amazed that she is so sharp. I told her that I hoped to live to be 90 and be as clear minded as she is. Her only limitation now is that she is paralyzed from waist down due to back surgery about a year ago. No one knows what happened to cause it, and, in my opinion, she is handling the situation really well. I know nobody know what goes on inside a person, and I'm sure she has many lonely hours, frustrations, and depressed feelings at times. I asked her if she thought she would make it to 100 and she very adamantly said, "No, please. I don't want to live 10 more years like this. I'm ready to go, so whenever the Lord is ready for me, I'll gladly give this up." She is totally dependent on someone else for everything and for her that's totally out of character. We know that "all things work for good to those who are the called according to His purpose." I know she is a Christian, so this will work for her good. She has a wonderful attitude, is aging gracefully, and is still mentally agile. So, I think her attitude has a lot to do with coping ability. The family found a wonderful black lady, Juanita, to move in and be with her around the clock. I met her today for the first time and just fell in love with her. She says she thinks she's found her niche and Grannie seems to really like her as well. God is good!

Would you believe that I actually turned the heat on tonight for a while!!! Our temperature has dropped considerably from last week, and I'm just naturally cold natured. The heat felt wonderful and will probably feel even better in the morning when it's supposed to be 32 degrees.

Until next time...Wanda.

I Know, It's About Time!!

2008-10-23T21:18:00.003-04:00

Just proving to you I am still here. ha. I'm surprised my blog still exists since it hasn't been updated in so long. Since I wrote last, my sister from Los Angeles flew in, she and I went to Mississippi and stayed a week and reconnected with my friends I hadn't seen in 45 years (one of which is in the picture with me above - Gayle), Angela and family are moving back to Thomasville, I have a house guest for about three months, and my Ladies Retreat with my niece, Sharon, has come and gone. Wow, how time flies when you're having fun! Thanksgiving and Christmas are just around the corner, too! I just got home from having dinner at the Plaza with some friends (ate too much as usual) and am sitting here listing to it drizzle rain outside. It has been kinda cool today, so I think summer is on its way out.

My walking buddy (Ramona) has chickened out on me, so I've had to walk by myself this week. That was ok, as I can walk faster alone, but I miss her company. Maybe she'll miss it too and want to start again. She and I usually yard sale shop on Saturday mornings, but with the weather cooling off, there probably won't be enough to bother with. There are other things going on, however, so I'll take advantage of those. The Boston Marathon is this weekend, Old South Day is in about two weeks, Calico Days are sometime in November, etc. etc. etc. See? There's lots to keep me busy!

I've found out in the last two weeks that my office is closing at the end of the year. One attorney is retiring and two of the other three are going with another firm. Where does that leave me? I don't know. The two that are going with the other firm may or may not be able to take me along, so I may or may not have a job at the end of the year. I'm just praying for God's guidance because I know HE will take care of me. I'll keep you posted.

Until next time (whenever that may be)....Wanda.

Finally found it!

2008-09-03T22:24:00.003-04:00

I've been looking for two years for a black entertainment center and finally found it this past weekend at Turner's in Moultrie. The pictures are posted mostly for the benefit of my children, but I'm kinda proud of it and don't mind showing it off. However, my TV looks rather lost and may force me to buy a bigger flat screen more the size of the cabinet. I'll put that on my "want" list and see how long it takes for that to happen. ha. As for the living room, I think this finishes all I wanted to do (except for pictures on the wall). I'm working on the pictures and hope to have them up soon. I found seven black frames at a yard sale that already had the matting in them, so they will look really good once I get them filled. Three are done - four to go! I still have a long list of things I want to do (new window coverings for my bedroom, crown molding for bedrooms, two new bedroom suits, new storage building, landscaping, etc. etc. etc.). I suppose there's no end to that kind of thing, but it's fun to actually be able to accomplish one or two and dream about the others. Who knows!?! I just may get them all done. Oh well, enough of that.

I had another doctor's appointment today for a pap smear and breast exam. Of course every time you go, you have to get weighed. I just was there last Thursday for a "re-establish" visit and was weighed then as well. Guess what!?!?!? Between last Thursday and today I lost another 2 pounds! Wow, was I excited! On the way home from church tonight, I went by the grocery store and bought salad fixings to take to the office for lunch. I've been eating quite a bit of salads and walking my 2 to 3 miles several times a week and think it's beginning to pay off. Gotta keep it up for my trip!! I have another appointment in about two weeks for a mammogram (ugh!) and bone density test and will probably get weighed again. Hopefully, I'll have more good news after that.

Ok, I've posted two nights straight and am give out! ha. It's getting close to bedtime, so, until next time...Wanda.

AHA!

2008-09-02T21:04:00.002-04:00

Although I don't have much to report, I thought I better put something on here for my faithful few who click in each day. Sorry I've disappointed you in not writing before now, but.....

Angela, Steve and Emily came this past weekend and spent the night on Sunday and went home yesterday afternoon. Neither Jawan nor Stuart got to come, but I'm hoping they both had a good day. I made good use of having Steve and his truck here as I had purchased a new entertainment center and needed help getting it home. It couldn't have worked out better!

It's only a week and a half before my trip to Mississippi and I can hardly wait. Norma is coming as well, so we three siblings will get to spend two or three days together. And, as I've already told you, I'm getting to reconnect with a couple of childhood friends as well while there. I'll have lots to talk about when I get home (hopefully with lots of pictures).

We survived Hurricane Fay with nothing but rain, wind and a lot of limbs everywhere. Well, there were several big trees uprooted around town, but my little piece of property only got lots of rain and limbs. It seems that Hurricane Gustav missed us also, and I've counted my blessings. I just hope Hurricane Hannah calms down and goes on her merry way with no effects as well. Gee, I'm ready for some "normal" weather!! However, I know God is in control so I'll just be thankful for His protection thus far and pray that He will continue to do so in the future.

Ok, that's all I can think of for the moment, so until next time...Wanda.

Blahs and Blessings

2008-08-17T22:28:00.002-04:00

Those two don't seem to go together, do they!? Well, I seem to experience both of them quite frequently at the same time (or maybe simultaneously). I know where the blahs come from, so I begin to count my blessings. Maybe that's the reason - to keep me coming back to God and depending on Him for everything, including my feelings. However, I must admit that I feel blessed much more often than having the blahs, so maybe I'm winning this battle!!!!

My weekend was pretty much the same old same old, i.e., Friday night dinner with two friends, Saturday yard sale shopping, breakfast with my friend, running errands, grocery shopping, Sunday church, lunch with the bunch, and back to church tonight. I'm thankful for the privilege of doing all of those normal things, for friends to do them with, and for protection in all my flitting around town.

I just got off the phone with my son and love it when we get into those heart-to-heart talks that we seem to gravitate to every time we talk. He is still single, in business with a friend, and doesn't live close to family, so I pray for him daily that God will keep his hand on him, protect him from harm, provide all of his needs, bless the busines and draw him closer to HIM every day. I can see God working in his life, and for that I'm so thankful. I know the struggles he goes through are working for his good to make him stronger in his faith. That's the same with all of us - if only we will remember that when we are in the midst of trials. I still struggle with my emotional battle several times a week, but am relying on God to pull me through.

I'm looking forward to my trip to Mississippi in September and am already trying to put together pictures to take with me to show my long-lost friends that I'm going to visit while there. I really think anticipating the trip, preparing for it, and day dreaming about the "what if's" of the trip are as big a part of the enjoyment as the actual trip. However, I can hardly wait to see not only my brother, sister-in-law, nephew, niece and their new baby, and my other niece, but to see the friends I haven't seen in 45+ years.

Hope I haven't bored you to tears with my ho-hum rambling. So, until next time...Wanda.

Time!

2008-08-04T21:12:00.002-04:00

Can you believe it is August already?! I do declare that the older we get, the faster the time flies. Guess I better start Christmas shopping.

It seemed kinda strange today going to work without Emily. I know last week was long for her, but it seemed to fly by to me. I caught myself today thinking I need to go check on her (she watched her movies in another room last week) when I remembered she wasn't there. So, Emmy, if you read this, I really missed you at the office!

My weekend was full and wonderful. My friend Ramona and I did our usual thing on Saturday morning and yard sale shopped. We were really big spenders - she spent $6 and I spent $1.25! Then we met a couple of friends at Ryan's for breakfast, went out to their house when finished to see what she had done to "stage" her house for sale, then went to look at some new condominiums and came away thinking that's what I wanted to do - sell my house and buy a new condo. I have since changed my mind and intend to stay put and continue to do little things to the house to make it more enjoyable. Saturday night Herman, Ramona and I had dinner at Fallin's; Sunday was the usual - church, lunch, back to church. So, it was a great weekend.

I didn't walk at all last week because of having Emily here. Today is a new week and we're back at it. It's really hot out there even at 6:30 p.m., so maybe between sweating and walking a few pounds will begin to disappear.

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

Emily!

2008-07-29T19:39:00.003-04:00

Emily has been with since last Friday and will be with me until this Friday. She's gone to work with me three days now, and you can see how she spends her time. She has drawn pictures, read books, played on the computer, ate, and today took a couple of movies to work and watched them in our small conference room. I think she watched both of them about three times each, so she had an overdose of tv. As you can see from the third picture, she sprouted nails today.ha. She found my old press on nails and just had to try them out. You should see her using them to scratch, trying to pick up things, etc. I may be in hot water with her mom, but they do come off pretty easy and she's having so much fun.

It has been (and still is) fun having her here. We went to a movie on Saturday and saw "Wall-E" - such a cute movie; to church on Sunday and out to lunch with the bunch; back to church Sunday night; work yesterday; stayed home last night and listened to it rain, played on the computer again, read stories, got baths and hit the bed. It was kinda tough getting her up this morning. She's now wanting us to go to Wal-Mart (and I really do need to go), and I'm getting the impression she is so proud of her "nails" that she wants to show them off. ha. So, I guess we'll go.

The only bad part of the last few days is the fact that I scraped an iron post with Steve's truck and dented the passenger door. He and Angela took my car to Tennessee and left me his truck. Emily and I went to Subway for lunch last Friday (the very first day I drove the truck), and, in the process of trying to give another truck room to get in the parking lot, I pulled over too far and scraped the iron post. My heart just sank, and I wanted to badly to be able to get it fixed before even telling them about it. However, after consulting with several friends, the decision was made that I should confess so Steve would have a week to cool off. ha. So, I did just that. I didn't get to talk to Steve as he was not close by when I called, but Angela was a sweetheart and assured me that it was just a truck and was fixable and that Steve loved me more than he loved that truck. Boy was I glad to hear that!!!! ha. I felt like a kid that was in trouble and was about to be punished, and then felt the relief after confessing. I still intend to pay for having it fixed. I thought about how this was so like our heavenly Father. Until we confess our sins and ask and accept His forgiveness, we are weighed down with guilt. But once confession and repentence has taken place, what a light, happy, joyful feeling we experience.

I haven't been able to walk this week yet as it rained yesterday afternoon, and I was so tired today that I didn't even give it a second thought. I'm not sure Emily would hold out for three miles anyway, so I'll probably forego this week and try to get back into the swing of things next week. I can tell I haven't done well with my food choices, and it's beginning to show.

Ok, Emily says it's time to go to Wal-Mart, so guess I better close this out. Until nezt time...Wanda.

At a loss!

2008-07-21T21:28:00.002-04:00

Why is it so hard to think of a title for a blog? If you blog, then you can relate. If you don't, you should try it sometime! I'd probably do this more often it I didn't have to name it. ha.

My weekend was wonderful - yard sale shopped with my friend Ramona (neither of us bought a thing!), ate breakfast together at Hardee's, dropped off clothes at consignment shop for Angela, went to Belk's and Bealls, and then home for lunch. The afternoon was spent vacuum-ing (?), dusting and mopping, etc. Yesterday (Sunday) was a blessing as usual. Went to church, had lunch with my usual group of friends, spent most of the afternoon doing nothing until about 5:30 when Jawan, Andrew, Luke and Abigail arrived on their way to Angela's for the week. What a joy it was to have all those little arms wrapped around my neck giving Gami a good dose of sugar. I even think Abigail remembered me as it didn't take her but a couple of minutes to hold up those tiny arms wanting me to pick her up. They stayed about two and a half hours before heading on down to Angela's. I just know they are having a great time. Of course, if I let myself (and I'm trying not to - but instead just turn them over to the Lord) I could worry about their safety as I know they will go swimming, fishing, etc. So, I've already covered them with prayer and know that God will do the rest.

I had a really busy day at work but came home and walked my three miles anyway. It was overcast, thundering and looked like it might rain any minute, so we carried our umbrellas. As it turned out, we didn't need them as it never rained. I guess the weather scared a lot of people because there weren't many folks out walking today. It was a much cooler walk today with a breeze blowing and no sun. Oh, how I want to get rid of some more pounds and pray that all this walking will make a difference.

All of the family except for Stuart and Mitch will be back to my house on Thursday of this week. On Friday, Angela and family are having to head back to Nashville, TN to pick up Ethan who has been at the Stamps Baxter School of Music for two weeks and Jawan and children will head back home as well. However, I get to keep Emily for a whole week while they are gone as they (Angela and family) will be going to camp with the youth from their church after they pick Ethan up in Nashville. So, I'll get to take her to work with me again next week at least a day or two. Hopefully, we can arrange for her to spend a night or two with one of her friends to keep her from being bored at my office.

Ok, enough yaking. Until next time...Wanda.

Decided to try again!

2008-07-17T20:15:00.003-04:00

Yes, it really is me! I almost decided never to blog again, but aw, I couldn't resist. It's been so long that probably no one ever checks in any more. Anyway, let me see if I can fill you in my "doings" since the last time. I've had the joy of celebrating grandchild #6's (Abigail) first birthday which meant I got to be with Nos. 4 (Andrew) and 5 (Luke) as well. Then this past weekend, we had our homecoming at church at which son-in-law Steve preached and we got to sing as a group again. This meant that I got to spend a little time with Nos. 1 (Meredith), 2 (Ethan) and 3 (Emily). They left shortly after lunch to take No. 2 (Ethan) to Nashville for a two-week Stamps Baxter music school, and left No. 3 (Emily) with me until they returned on Monday night. I took Emily to work with me on Monday, and she seemed to have a good time between playing with her Nintendo DS, drawing pictures for me, helping me with copying, filing, etc. The picture above was also taken over the weekend when Steve's sister invited us all out to her house to grill hamburgers. If it weren't for these Georgia gnats and mosquitos, it would be enjoyable to sit outside.

Oh, another exciting thing that's transpired is that I reconnected with another childhood friend from Mississippi (did I already tell about that?). I'm planning a trip in September to see my brother, Paul, and visit with this friend while there. She only lives about 25 miles from him, so I'm excited about the visit. Bless his heart, on top of having throat cancer, almost no voice, and a feeding tube, he fell about a week ago and broke his foot. The treatments he's had to take have made him so weak it caused him to fall. I'm praying that things will start to improve for him and Millie. She's such a trooper and loves that hubby with all her heart and takes really good care of him. But, there's not much she can do to restore his strength, so we'll have to rely on the Lord for that.

As I read my daughter Jawan's blog today - www.themcginnismessage.blogspot.com - I was again reminded of how blessed she is with friends. Even when she was in high school and college, that child had more friends than anyone I've ever known. She's such a people person and so down to earth that others just can't help but love her. She's like a magnet that draws people to her and I'm so glad that her life is filled with loving friends. Of course, being just a little biased, I think everyone should love her!

My oldest, Angela, is the same way. She has many, many friends as well. Of course, both daughters are preachers' wives, so that may have a little to do with it. But they are both loving, caring ladies with such sweet spirits. They are both wonderful wives, mothers, and daughters. Hopefully, they got a little of those traits from me. ha.

As for my youngest, Stuart, he never meets a stranger, can talk to anyone about most anything, and is a nut! ha. The sweetest nut you ever want to meet! He was a 4.5 pound preemie at birth but is now a 6' 1" man. His two sisters love him dearly, as does his mom, but just don't get to spend enough time together. He's still single as God has not led him to "the one" yet. But, we are still praying that that will happen. He loves to aggravate, tease and wrestle his sisters when they do get together, loves to play with his nieces and nephews, and shares his heart with all of us. He and his best friend have their own business and are both having to work hard to get it established.

Heidi (my sweet nephew's wife, which makes her my niece), if you read this, yes, I'm okay. Just been lazy about blogging. I've checked in on yours as well to keep up with Baby B and everything that's going on in yours and BB's lives. When I come in September, I plan to pop down your way to see the house transformation as well as Baby B (I'm sure she'll have a name by then - ha). I'll keep you posted when I get details worked out.

Ok, when I came home from work today, I promised myself that I was going to work on cleaning up this house. Well, I got the dishes washed, went for my 3-mile walk, came home and ate, and here I sit - not accomplishing a whole lot! So, gotta go and see if I can force myself to do something. Until next time...Wanda.

A "Grand" weekend!

2008-06-29T22:30:00.003-04:00

It truly was a "grand" weekend. I drove to Albany on Friday afternoon after work and met Jawan and family and brought Andrew (grandchild no. 4) home with me for the weekend. On Saturday, we went to the lake, fed the geese, looked for turtles, and played on the playground. Came home, ate lunch, watched a movie, and then went to the pet store to see the animals. After that, we went to Dairy Queen for ice cream and on out to Grannie's and surprised her with our visit. Came home, ate supper, watched "Water Horse", got baths and went to bed. Today, we went to church, and Andrew went to his own class and then to children's church. The last time he spent the weekend with me, he wanted to stay in my class and even sat on the piano bench while I played. I can see him growing up! After church, we went to What-a-Burger for lunch, came home and packed his suitcase, drove back to Albany where I had to give him back to his parents. It was such sweet time spent with him, and I hope to be able to do the same with Luke and Abigail eventually. So, my time this weekend was spent playing with and entertaining Andrew. Do you think the yard sales missed me? Nah. Hope all of you have a wonderful week. Until next time...Wanda.

Another "Found" Friend!!!

2008-06-23T22:00:00.002-04:00

Gee, I'm so thrilled right now because I just got off the phone (a two hour conversation) with a childhood friend that I have not seen in probably 35 years. Her voice didn't sound the same, but mine probably didn't to her either. We really got caught up on children, grandchildren, siblings, parents, jobs, etc. etc. etc. I found her son on the Internet week before last, called him, told him who I was, got his mom's contact information and proceeded to try to reach her by phone. After three attempts, I finally gave up on that and just wrote her a letter. Well, when the phone rang tonight and I discovered it was her, I just knew she had gotten my letter and was calling because of it. But, no, she had not received my letter but had talked to her son! Now when she gets the letter it will be all "old" news. Oh well, a lot of facts will be in writing that she can refer back to if needed. Now I just need to talk to her sister, which should be happening in the next day or so. Friends are so precious, and I'm so glad to reconnect. This is twice this year that I've found someone from bygone days that meant so much to me. I must not let them get lost in the shuffle from now on as they still mean much to me.

I know I haven't posted in a while but have been busy with Vacation Bible School and other activities. Just haven't stopped or been motivated to sit down and write. I'm not even going to promise to try to do better as I never do. I'm still walking in the afternoons three times a week, yard sale-ing on Saturday mornings, attending church, planning Women's Ministry programs, working every day, finding "lost" friends (ha), reading, and whatever else comes along.

Happy Monday to everyone and have a wonderful week. Until next time...Wanda.

The Flowers of Life

2008-06-15T22:42:00.002-04:00

I love flowers but just have to admire them from afar as I DO NOT have a green thumb to grow my own. But the flowers I treasure most are the family and friends that have been placed in my life -- some to bless me and some for me to bless. I've had a wonderful weekend doing just that. On Saturday morning, my friend Ramona and I went yard sale-ing as usual. Guess how much we spent!? $.0 How many women do you know that can go shopping and not spend a penny? We did go to breakfast afterwards but that didn't count in the shopping. I came home and did a couple of loads of laundry and then went to Mrs. Sons' (my mother-in-law) and sat with her from 1:00 p.m. until 6:30 p.m. It was a wonderful visit. We talked, played Scrabble, looked at scrapbooks, watched the golf tournament, ate, talked, etc. She seemed so pleased that I came and stayed with her, and I know I came home thanking God for my blessings. She is paralyzed from waist down since her back surgery a year ago, so she's dependent on someone else for all of her needs.

Today being Fathers' Day, I received a call from my oldest wishing me a Happy Father's Day since I'm the only parent she or Steve have left. ha. I've never gotten a Happy Father's Day wish before!! I hope my sons-in-law, Steve and Mitch, both had good days with their wives and children. Hopefully, one of these days Stuart will have a family as well.

Heidi, in case you read this (as you usually do), I am way behind on thanking you for all the comments you leave for me. You are precious and I appreciate your sweet words and thoughts. I am so anxious for Baby Girl Brasher to arrive, the house to get done, and you three really settle in. We'll just have to make a trip out to see all of your "new" things. ha. I love you and Brian, so be sure to give him a hug for me.

Lora Gail, you also read my posts, and I thank you for commenting as well. You are so good about calling me and I appreciate your following though when you think to do so. I'm ashamed of myself for not calling you. I love you and hope all is well with you.

Until next time...Wanda.

One of Six

2008-06-08T22:15:00.002-04:00

It gets harder and harder to think up titles for these posts, but hopefully you'll get the drift by the time I'm through. I was blessed this weekend to have one of my six grandchildren spend the night with me on Friday night and all day Saturday. Steve had a wedding to perform on Saturday night, so he brought Emily with him to hang out with me while he took care of business and visited with his siblings. On Friday night, we went to McDonalds and got her some dinner, grocery shopped, and came home and watched a movie. On Saturday morning, I took her yard sale shopping with Ramona and me and everything I bought was for Emily. ha. Imagine that! After shopping, we went to Waffle House and had breakfast; then took her down to Cherokee Lake and walked once around it and saw five turtles on a log, several squirrels, and about four families of geese; came home and took a walk around my street; came home and watched another movie; played outside until the heat got to us; played on the computer; went out to her Aunt Sherry's to see her house renovations; ate a late lunch/dinner; got her bath; washed her hair; and had her all ready for dad when he returned from the wedding. They had to drive back home, and Emily left in tears. It was a bitter sweet moment -- I'm so glad she loves to come to my house and loves me so much, but it breaks my heart for her to leave crying. I'm sure by the time they were at the end of my street she was fine, as dad had promised her they would stop for ice cream. I love the one-on-one time I get to spend with whichever grandchild we can work it out with. My next one will be Andrew (age 4) sometime in July (I think) and maybe we can talk Luke (age 2) into a weekend before long. Today being Sunday, I have thoroughly enjoyed being in God's house, having lunch with the gang, coming home and napping, and back to church tonight. And, I'm looking forward to a wonderful week at work. Hope all of you had a great weekend. Until next time...Wanda.

Drawing a Blank

2008-06-05T21:29:00.002-04:00

You guessed it, I can't think of anything interesting to write about. I do know that God is good and has blessed in so many ways this week:

(1) Jawan and family had a safe and fun trip to Missouri for a week of vacation;

(2) Angela and family made it through another school year, Steve's trip to Chili, and all the activities she is involved in;

(3) Stuart's work is picking up and he got to attend a Braves game with a friend;

(4) I've had a wonderful week as well working, walking with my friend, attending church, etc.;

(5) History has been made this week in politics, and I have to remind myself that God is in control; and

(6) Tomorrow is Friday and the weekend is upon us (yard sales!!!!!). ha.

We have much to be thankful for, and I plan to express my thanks to HIM before retiring for the night. I hope you will count your blessings and offer your thanks as well. So, until next time...Wanda.

Summer is here!

2008-06-03T20:25:00.002-04:00

It's been in the mid to high 90's here all week, which tells me that in another month or two it will probably be hotter. Wow, walking in the afternoon really is a lot harder but I guess sweating can take off a pound or two as well. I've noticed they are installing beautiful decorative light poles around the lake on the wooded side, so I'm assuming there will be a lot of night walkers when it is cooler.

My week has been good - just really busy. Two bosses will be out tomorrow and one the next day, so it should slow down a bit. However, keeping up with four attorneys has not been too bad so far, and I love the challenge. As long as I can do it, they'll let me, which means job security, right?

I had another birthday this past week, and I'm thankful for every one of them. I got lots of cards, hugs, and gifts, which made me feel very special. God is so good for blessing me with a wonderfully sweet family and a bunch of crazy loving friends. The phrase "age is just a number" is so true. We can't do anything about our age number wise, but we don't have to give in to it. I certainly don't feel my age - may look it but don't feel it. Guess that's why so many people stay 39 for so long. ha.

Time to go something else so, until next time...Wanda.

Home Again!

2008-05-26T21:38:00.003-04:00

Wow, what a weekend in Nashville! My friend, Dianne, and I (top picture) left on Thursday afternoon after work and drove to Montgomery, AL and, since it was already dark, got us a motel room and spent the night. We drove on in to Nashville on Friday morning (actually it was Friday aftrernoon before we got there). The sessions started Friday night and ended on Sunday.

The second picture above is Christian comedian Ken Davis, me, and Janet Paschal. Dr. Charles Stanley was there also, but I was not able to get a picture of or with him. Ken is so funny yet so inspiring. He did his comedy on Saturday morning and then brought the Sunday morning sermon. He is awesome! Janet brought the house down as well. She's always on the Gaither videos and can really belt out a song. I knew she had been battling cancer, but she shared with us that she had just gone to the doctor last week and got a clean bill of health! Praise the Lord!

The bottom picture (the man in the middle with the dark coat and blue shirt) is Lt. Col. Oliver North (click on the picture and enlarge so you can see him better). I actually got to shake hands with him, and he signed his book for me. What a testimony he has! I have a deeper respect and admiration of him after hearing him speak.

The music was fantastic: The Pfeifers, Voices of Lee, Greater Vision, Janet Paschal, Dennis Wilson and, of course, Legacy Five. It was entertaining, inspirational, and VERY patriotic. Before every session, a salute to the armed forces scrolled by on the screens with the National Anthem and other moving songs being played in the background. The veterans in the audience of 2,000 were recognized and applauded for their service to our Country for our freedom.

Besides the blessings from the sessions, just staying in the Gaylord Opryland Hotel was amazing. This was our second time to experience this, but it was just as exciting as before. You can hardly imagine so much being under one roof. We didn't leave the hotel the whole weekend as everything we needed was there -- restaurants, shops, boat ride (yes, right there in the motel!), pool and spa, etc. etc.

This was the last "trip" planned for the year (until I think of another). I am so thankful God has allowed me to do all I've done so far this year and has protected me from harm. He is so good!! It has been a quiet Memorial Day for me just running errands, stopping by a friend's house to visit a few minutes, and hanging around the house. I now have to face my bedroom where suitcases are still in the floor and the bed covered with "stuff". Yuk! I hate unpacking. Oh well, it's gotta be done. So, until next time...Wanda.

Out for Weekend

2008-05-21T22:23:00.002-04:00

Since I'm gonna be gone for three days, I knew I better put something on here or I'd get reprimanded. ha. I just realized that some of the people who remind me I haven't blogged in a while don't blog themselves! What's wrong with that picture? You know who you are. ha.

I am in the midst of packing for the weekend as Dianne and I leave tomorrow after work for Nashville. Of course, we won't reach Nashville tomorrow night but will get about half the distance behind us. Besides it being helpful to break it up, it's fun to get to spend time with a friend with no distractions. We live two houses apart and hardly ever see each other and never visit. Most of that has to do with our jobs but it's still a shame that we don't see each other more often. It takes a trip to get us out of town to do that.

Why is it when you plan a trip that you either overdo or under do the packing? I always fall into the overdo category "just in case." This only creates more stress as you have to remember shoes to go with outfits, jewelry, purses, etc. etc. etc. At least I have made progress in the last year -- I now wear sandals with the toes out and without hose/knee highs. I still don't have pretty feet, but, as my sweet sister told me, nobody cares about my feet so be comfortable. I have discovered that there are uglier feet out there than mine, so I'm going for it!!!!

Since I won't be home until late Sunday night, there won't be anything else on here until at least Monday. Just letting you know that I'm not procrastinating - just won't have access to a computer. Until next time...Wanda.

Conference

2008-05-18T15:02:00.003-04:00

I just got back last night from the Women of Faith conference in Jacksonville with my five other buddies. We had a blast being with each other and were wonderfully blessed by the speakers. It seemed to be better this year than last or maybe I just needed to hear what was said this year more than last. Whatever the case, it was great. Three of my friends had never been and are just raving about how good it was, how blessed they were, and how they can't wait for next year. Yes, it's going to be in Jacksonville again next year, so I hope we will have a much bigger group to go. With speakers like Patsy Clairmont, Luci Swindoll, Marilyn Mehberg, Sandi Patti, Sheila Walsh, Nicole Johnson and Max Lucado, how could you NOT be blessed. Plus, the music of Nicole C. Mullen was awesome. Not my kind of music but awesome anyway. It was geared more to the young set - very upbeat and loud. ha. But when she sang "I Know That My Redeemer Lives," wow, I got chill bumps!! Of course, Sandi Patti and Sheila not only spoke but sang as well and I love both of them. I came home tired and went to bed about 10:15, which is very early for me. However, when I got to church this morning, the rest of the group said they were dragging. Not me! I was rested.

Okay, the weekend is almost over and I have to shift gears and go to work tomorrow. I don't mind and even look forward to it. It will be another short work week for me, as Dianne and I go to Nashville this coming weekend for the Legacy Five annual Memorial Day celebration at the Gaylord Opryland Hotel. The hotel is a treat in itself - like a whole city under one roof! After that trip, I have no other travel plans. Gee, I'll have to think of somewhere else to go!

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

Packin'

2008-05-15T21:03:00.002-04:00

Six of us leave tomorrow morning for Jacksonville for the Women of Faith conference, so I'm washing, drying, ironing, and packing my little bag for the overnight stay. Everyone is meeting here at my house at 7:30 a.m., we're loading in the van, going to Hardee's for breakfast together, and then head out. It's only about a 2-1/2 to 3 hour drive, so we should get there, find our hotel, check in, have lunch, and still have an hour or two before the session begins at 7:00 p.m. We are all excited and should come home knowing a lot more about each other. Three are going that have never been before, so I'm really excited for them. Hopefully, they will come home with so much spiritual food and fun memories that they will share with others who showed no interest in going and maybe some of it will rub off. We won't be back until late Saturday night, so this will be my last post until probably Sunday. Hope all of you have a wonderful weekend and are in church on Sunday. Until next time...Wanda.

Tuesday Blessings

2008-05-13T21:59:00.003-04:00

It's been another great day, although I'm pooped. I was in a dress and heels from 7:00 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. I had to play piano for Kerry's mom's funeral this morning, so I had to go dressed up to work. Then, tonight was my Women's Ministry meeting and I didn't come home after work but went straight to the church to decorate, etc. We had 13 ladies there, which disappoints me as we should have had 25 or more. However, my sister-in-law, Marge, did a demonstration of flower arranging using every day items (vegetable cans, weeds, pool noodles, cheese grater, etc.) and we all enjoyed that. We drew names to see who got to take home the arrangements and, believe it or not, I won one. I picked the top one one with the least amount of flowers as I am not good at keeping them alive. When the flowers in this one wilt, I'll replace them with artificial ones. ha. I think we all left inspired to do some on our own but, as I say, mine will be with artificial ones. It was fun and Marge did a great job. Until next time...Wanda.

Monday Praise!

2008-05-12T22:07:00.002-04:00

I really feel that I don't have anything to write about that would be of interest to anyone, but I hate for you to click in and nothing be there. ha. I had a wonderful Monday and have had a very happy heart all day today just thinking about how blessed I am. It being Mother's Day weekend, I naturally thanked God for my children and the grandchildren they have blessed me with. I thank Him for life, for healing, for His presence, for His guidance, for extended family, for friends He has placed in my life, and a myriad of other things that make life so wonderful. However, at the moment, I know I am not pleasing Him very much as I should be in the other room having my Bible quiet time. It seems every time I head that way I think of something (see how Satan works?!) else to do and it keeps getting put off. I really prefer having the quiet time in the mornings before going to work, but I overslept this morning and didn't get it done. It makes such difference in getting the day started off right and on the right track all day. So, I must close this out and go do what I am being prompted to do - spend time with my Lord and Savior! Until next time...Wanda.

Here I Am Again!

2008-05-11T22:45:00.002-04:00

I told you I'd get back to this soon, so here goes. This was Mother's Day weekend, and I've had a very good one. Stuart surprised me and came home for the weekend, and I've talked to both Angela and Jawan today. They are such sweet, wonderful children, and I am so blessed that God gave them to me. Last night Stuart and I watched some old home movies from 24 years ago, some made at Grandma and Grandpa Brasher's house in Mississippi and some made at Terry and Sharon's in Marietta, GA. Wow, how we have all changed! But it was so sweet to see on film my parents, brother and sister-in-law who are all in heaven now and reminensce about those special visits. It was fun to see the children who were then only 3, 6, 8, 9 and 15 years old who now have children of their own. Kinda made me feel old! ha. I'm sure there's a lot more that I could tell you here, but I'm gonna cut this short. I didn't get my Sunday afternoon snooze, so I'm feeling droopy. Just wanted you to know I'm still around. Until next time...Wanda.

A Day Early!

2008-05-04T21:09:00.004-04:00

I said it would probably be Monday before I checked in again, but just had to do this while it was on my mind. I went to Angela's this weekend and had a wonderful time. The above is her family (minus Emily who hasn't joined them in singing yet) at the sing at their church Saturday night. I was privileged to sing with them as well but got no pictures of that. Today has been wonderful as usual. I drove back from Angela's early this morning so I could be in SS and church at my own. Had lunch with the usual bunch and then joined the friend who was supposed to have gone to church with me this morning and saw the TOSAC play. The friend's brother came into town unexpectedly, so she had to cancel out on church but has promised to go next Sunday. We thoroughly enjoyed the play and had a great visit catching up on mutual acquaintances. After church tonight, we surprised one of the youth who is graduating tomorrow from home school with a party in the fellowship hall. He is such a sweet, quiet, boy and was presented a really nice study Bible from the church. (He's the one who does my yards.)

I was so afraid I wouldn't wake up in time to drive home this morning that I hardly slept any at all last night. So, I'm about the drop. I'm cutting this short so I can head for bed. Hope all of you had a good weekend and are looking forward to the coming week. I am!! Until next time...Wanda.

AHA!

2008-05-01T21:59:00.002-04:00

Bet you thought I had lapsed back into my old ways of procrastination, didn't you?! Just been busy at work, walking in the afternoon, and other things that had to be done (not to mention just resting). Keeping four attorneys happy at the office getting all their work out without any of them feeling like I'm showing preference to one of the others can get a little pressured sometimes. Needless to say, they keep me busy. One of them is about to be gone for two weeks, so I'll get a bit of a breather.

I'm excited about going to Angela's this weekend (leaving tomorrow from work). We will be singing at their church on Saturday night, and then I'll drive back here early Sunday morning in time to play piano for my church. It's been a while since I've gotten to sing with them and I'll probably be a bit rusty. But, Angela, Steve, Meredith and Ethan will probably do most of it anyway, which will be a real treat for me.

I have a friend/former co-worker who is going to church with me Sunday, and I'm excited about that. Her husband died several months ago, her only child lives in Atlanta, and she's alone. Hopefully, this will be the beginning of a renewal of our friendship. After church, we'll have lunch and then go to the T'ville On Stage theater production in the afternoon. I have forgotten the name of it but have heard raves about how good and funny it is. It will be a full day!

Until next time (which will probably be Monday)...Wanda.

Friends

2008-04-28T20:39:00.002-04:00

I was blessed today to hear from another friend in Mississippi that I haven't talked to in a long time. What a joy! I have three friends from Mississippi who are truly that -- it doesn't matter how long we've been apart or how long its been since we talked, we just pick up where we left off. That is a real blessing.

When someone pops into our minds and we think of them several times during the day, that probably means we should call and chat. Friends are too few and far between to let slip through our fingers, and it only takes a few minutes to reconnect. I'm talking mostly to myself, because a lot of times I'll intend to send a card, visit someone, or call and just keep putting it off. The result? I've cheated both of us out of a blessing. So, I'm going to do better!!!!

My local friend and I walked our three miles around the lake this afternoon, so I'm tired. I still have a couple of projects to work on before bedtime and better close this out. Until next time...Wanda.

Chatter

2008-04-27T20:58:00.002-04:00

For lack of a better title, as I have nothing in particular to report on tonight; just didn't want to break my chain of blogging. Today being Sunday and my favorite day of the week (besides those ending in "y"), it was a good one! Church this morning was very good, lunch with the church bunch was enjoyable as usual, and my afternoon was spent putting pictues in my Women's Ministry scrapbook. I really should have walked but the pictures were calling me, so I gave in. Tonight was another good service at church, and I came home and ate too much and am miserable. Guess that means I'll really have to walk lots this next week. Hope all of you had a wonderful day and look forward to a great week. I love my job, I love Mondays (and each day thereafter), and look forward to being busy. I have some folks I want to send cards to, calls to make, plans to be made, housework to be done, activites to participate in, etc. What else is new?! Until next time...Wanda.

Women of Influence

2008-04-26T19:18:00.003-04:00

That's the name of the ladies' function I attended today with Debbie and Ramona at Angela's church. I came home inspired and encouraged to be more conscious of my influence on others. We all are, you know, whether for good or not so good, so it's very important that we remember that we are God's children and let others see Jesus in us through our words, actions, body language, attitude, integrity, dependability, punctuality, thoughts, etc. etc. Get the point?

The only part of the day that I wish would have been different is to have been able to spend more time with my daughter and family. Emily had a softball game and I only got to be with her about 10 minutes. Ethan, of course, couldn't attend the ladies' thing and I only got to be with him for about the same amount of time. However, Meredith and Angela thrilled my heart - Angela is such a wonderful pastor's wife, mother and daughter that I'm always brought to tears when I'm with her. Meredith sang a solo ("Come to Jesus") and that really brought my tears. I love her so much and am so proud of her testimony. I'm going back down there next weekend (Friday after work and stay until early Sunday morning and then drive home in time to be at my church service) as they are having a sing and we are the program. ha. It's been a while since I've sung with them, but I can hardly wait.

Ok, I have things to do - like pop some corn and watch "Water Horse" that I bought at the Christian bookstore this afternoon. Until next time...Wanda.

So Excited!

2008-04-25T21:07:00.003-04:00

These are my buddies - Debbie and Ramona (always has her eyes closed in pictures - ha). They are going with me tomorrow to Angela's.

As I mentioned in my last post, a long-lost friend was found today. We talked for 30 minutes on the phone and would have talked longer but I had to get back to work. It was as though the years just melted away and we picked up right where we left off. Now that's a friend! She now lives in Texas, so I can't pop over and see her anytime soon. However, she's coming over this way sometime in the next few months, so we will work it out somehow to get together for a few minutes or a day or two of visiting. In the meantime, we'll keep the phone lines hot. She still talks 90 miles an hour, so there's never a lull in the conversation. That's one of the things I love about her - never at a loss for words. ha.

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

It's a habit!

2008-04-24T21:55:00.003-04:00

(Can you tell I'm still reminiscing about my California trip? Mickey let me try out his car!)

Well, it didn't take three weeks of doing this for it to become a habit. It seems that I'm drawn to this computer every night to write something! However, I really don't have anything to share tonight except that as I walked my three miles this afternoon, I counted my blessings and thanked God for his work in my life.

There is one thing I've very excited about. A dear friend that I had lost contact with over the years is about to be found!!!! Her daughter and my oldest were best friends when they were little, and the mom and I were as well. The daughter saw one of my children's picture/name on My Space and contacted them. So, tomorrow I plan to make contact with the mom and do some "catching up." These computers are wonderful!

I'm planning to go to Angela's on Saturday for a tea/brunch with her church ladies and am looking forward to that as well as seeing the three grandchildren I haven't seen in a while. Hope all of you have a wonderful weekend and honor God with the way you live! Until next time...Wanda.

Secretary's Day

2008-04-23T21:01:00.002-04:00

Much to my surprise, when I walked into my office this morning there was a pretty pink plant and an envelope on my desk. It had not dawned on me that today was Secretary/Administrative Asst. day, but my bosses remembered. There was a gift card to Outback in the card, so I'll have to see about putting that to use soon. Of course, one of them had written a note of thanks for all that I do in the card, and that was also appreciated. I love my job!

We had a wonderful crowd at church tonight and a good lesson as well. It was on spiritual growth, and that's been one of my desires the last few months. So, I'm looking forward to this series of Wednesday night lessons and even have some homework to do. Guess I should quit this and go get started. Until next time...Wanda.

Fish in the Lake

2008-04-22T22:41:00.002-04:00

Yes, Stuart, there are fish in the lake. I saw three people pull some out today. One fellow decided his was not big enough, so he threw him back. The other two were good size and went into their coolers. I had to walk by myself today as my buddy was sick. I didn't mind, however, as I saw friends I hadn't seen in a while and just enjoyed being outdoors. There was a wonderful breeze, and I saw the world in action (firetruck with siren blasting, police cars, ambulance, and a train that crossed over our walking path). When I got home, I had two caramel rice cakes with peanut butter. YUM! (That one was for you, Kim! HA) That's all I've had, so I'm hoping the exercise and cutback on eating will get a few more pounds off. Will keep you posted on that (as if you are really interested). Hope all of you are having a wonderful week. Until next time...Wanda.

Cherokee Lake

2008-04-21T21:15:00.005-04:00

This is my new favorite place to walk. It's exactly one mile around the lake, so three laps and I get in my three miles. It is beautiful and a perfect spot for walking, fishing, picnic-ing, or just taking a lawn chair to sit and watch the people or read. I can hardly wait for my children and grandchildren to come visit me so we can enjoy this together. I apologize for all the space between pictures on my blog - Wannie will have to show me how to correct it on her next visit. I'm tired, so this will be short. But aren't you proud of me for blogging so often!?!?!? Until next time...Wanda.

Saturday Doin's

2008-04-19T22:06:00.001-04:00

You know I was expecting another beautiful day today. Well, when I got up this morning and looked outside - you guessed it - it was raining. Not hard, just enough to need an umbrella. I didn't let that stop me. I went to the beauty shop at 8:30 a.m., was out by 9:30 a.m., and the rain had stopped. The rest of the day was gorgeous; thank you, Lord. Got my errands done - CVS for vacation pictures, Ambers Two to drop off donations (consignment shop), etc. Came home and cleaned house, made lunch, and had a nap. The phone woke me (yes, Jawan, I was dozing when you called but didn't want to admit it - ha) and I chatted with Wannie. Hadn't much more than sat down when it rang again, and it was my friend Connie calling to see if I could have dinner with her tonight as her husband was otherwise engaged. So, she came and picked me up and we went to Applebees for dinner and was joined by a friend and former co-worker, Nancy. It was a wonderful spending time with both of them, especially Nancy. I hope all of you had a great day and will be in God's house tomorrow. Until next time...Wanda (see, I'm trying to change from "Mom").

It's me again!

2008-04-18T20:52:00.003-04:00

I have so many pictures from my trip that I just had to post another or two. Bet you didn't know Billy Graham had a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, did you? I didn't. The next picture is of Kim and Shane's daughters - Jamie and Tiffany (Jamie is the oldest - that's Kim in the background). The last picture is Renae and Paul's oldest daughter, Kristi, with her new flame, Tai. This one was taken at Medieval Times, which, if you've ever been there, explains the crown she's wearing. We all had to wear them.

They say if you do something long enough, it becomes a habit. Well, I'm working on making a habit of daily blogging. Bet that's shocked a few of you! I have nothing in particular on my mind to write about except that it's Friday and the weekend is before me. Today was in the 80s, so I'm hoping tomorrow will be that way too as I have errands to run (nails, hair, CVS to check on pictures, consignment shop - thanks to my daughter, etc.). My Friday night dinner buddies had their grandbabies at their house, so I went to McDonalds (drivethrough) and then shopped for my secret sister a gift.

Hope all of you have a wonderful weekend. I'll chat with you soon! Until next time...Mom. (I really shouldn't sign off that way as more folks read this than just my children. Ok, I'll think of something for next time.)

California family

2008-04-17T21:51:00.002-04:00

It's been years since my own children have seen their cousins in California and longer than that since the Mississippi portion of my family has seen them. So, I thought I'd at least post my sister's children (Renae and Paul; Terry and Sharon; Kim and Shane). Renae and Paul live in Fullerton, CA, Terry and Sharon live in Roswell, GA, and Kim and Shane live with Norma and Gwin in Los Angeles. They are all so special to me, and I had so much fun visiting with them last week.

We have a beautiful lake just one street over from my house, and I've just this week discovered what a treat it is. A sidewalk has been put in all the way around it, bridges have been built over the water, benches are placed here and there, picnic tables, a children's playground, and the rose garden are all there as well. Lots of people were there walking, some were fishing off the bridges, and families were strolling their children. Ramona and I walked there day before yesterday, and I went by myself this afternoon. I asked someone how far it was around the lake and was told it is exactly one mile. I was on my third lap around when I asked, so I got in three miles before coming home. Think I'll head for bed as soon as I finish this.

Ok, this is my third day in a row to blog, which is some kind of record for me. Don't get excited for I'll probably lapse back into procrastination mode soon.ha. Until next time...Mom.

Afterthought!

2008-04-16T21:40:00.004-04:00

Just a shot of Norma and me with some actor outside of Grauman's Chinese Theater. There were bunches of these people dressed in costumes wanting to have their picture made with you. Then, after the picture was made, they asked for a tip. That's the way they made extra cash when not rehearsing or acting. I gave him $1 - do you think it was worth it? ha. I learned my lesson quickly and didn't take pictures with anyone else in costume.

This is what I really wanted to blog about tonight. I wish I had a picture to prove this, but I don't have it yet. I forgot to tell you that I got to play the piano on Main Street in Disneyland while on our trip!!!!! There was a ragtime pianist playing while people ate in the outdoor part of the restaurant. Some lady from the crowd asked the pianist if she could play, and he said yes. She played beautifully - ragtime just like he had been doing. While she was playing, Renae and Debbie decided they would ask him if I could play. They did, he said yes, and I played - not ragtime but southern gospel! They got my picture so I'll have to wait until they send it to me to prove that I really did! Don't know how I forgot to tell you about that as I felt quite honored. Ok, that's told so don't you feel better? I do. ha. Would you believe I've just tonight unpacked my suitcase (home on Sunday and here it is Wednesday). Talk about procrastination! I don't know what U.S. Air did, but they ruined my suitcase. The fabric was torn off on one corner and the frame was all bent out of shape. Oh well, I do have another smaller one so I'm not going to worry about it. Guess I could have filed a claim but they gave us a safe, smooth flight so we'll call it even. Enough for now. Until next time...Mom.

Recouping!

2008-04-14T22:37:00.007-04:00

Norma and Gwin at Sea World

Me and Debbie on ski lift

Me and Norma

Me, Norma and Debbie at The Grove

Debbie, me and Norma at Universal

After ten days vacationing in Los Angeles, CA, I made it through my first day back at work. We had such a wonderful time visiting with my sister and her family and thoroughly enjoyed everything! There's not a more perfect host and hostess in the world. She and Gwin entertained us royally with places such as Medieval Times, Universal Studios, Rainforest Cafe, Church, Hollywood, Disneyland/California Adventures, Sea World in San Diego, The Grove, Farmers' Market, Cheesecake Factory, American Doll store, sightseeing in L.A., and a live Broadway play to end the week. We walked, ate, walked, ate, shopped, ate, -- get the idea?! ha. Many stars should be in the crown of Gwin. He's the most patient, calm, cooperative, and fun man I know. He took us everywhere, told us to take all the time we needed and do whatever we wanted to do, and found him a place to sit and read while we did it. I don't know of another man anywhere that would do that with three women or more. On our excursion to Disneyland/California Adventures, there were 18 of us and he never complained. I love you, Gwin!!!!

My precious son, Stuart, picked Debbie and me up at the airport in Atlanta Saturday night. Debbie's husband met us down the road, got his wife and her belongings, and they headed for the mountains for a few days. I got to spend the night with Stuart again and go to church with him Sunday morning. That was a wonderful experience. Of course, I loved getting to visit with him in his new place and he cooked spaghetti for us for supper. Just wish we lived closer so we could see each other more often. I was back on my piano stool at my own church Sunday night, and that is always a wonderful feeling.

I came home determined to get a few more pounds off and started off really good this morning with a Slim Fast, two slices of pizza and a salad for lunch, walked for 40 minutes after work, ate a tomato and cucumber with Ranch dressing for supper and then...you guessed it - I pigged out on chips. Where oh where does my willpower go? Guess I'll just have to walk faster and more often to offset those fat grams.

Ok, I've rambled enough to make up for the weeks I didn't post anything. So, until next time...Mom.

"Destiny"

2008-03-02T19:49:00.003-05:00

I just returned this afternoon from the "Destiny" Women's Conference in Destin, FL with the theme "How Do I Know I Heard God's Voice?" It was a wonderful weekend meeting new friends, hearing stirring testimonies, being taught the word (by Ann Nunnally of Thomasville, who also is the head of the committee that puts the retreat together every year), singing songs of praise, and eating delicious food. There were ladies from Georgia, Alabama, Florida, and Minnesota in attendance with all ages from 2 months to 84 years. One young lady was saved the first night and many decisions and breakthroughs were made by others. The guest speaker was Linda Goldfarb from San Antonio, TX and she was wonderful. That's her in the second picture with me (she's the pretty one - ha). The trip there and back with my friend, Connie (that's her in the first picture with me), was wonderful as well with non-stop talk. We also roomed together and instead of watching TV at night, we talked. She's on the committee that puts together the retreat every year, and I'm thankful she insisted that I go with her. Tomorrow, it's back to work but with a renewed determination to spend more time with the Lord so I'll be sure when I hear his voice. So, until next time...Mom.

Hopeless case!

2008-02-24T14:32:00.003-05:00

Guess I have just proven that I'm a hopeless case when it comes to procrastination. I know it's been weeks since I blogged. I wish I were more like my second daughter and would do it daily. Where did she get that? I know it was not from her parents so it must have been from another generation. I'm so glad she is good at it, loves doing it, and is consistent. I would be so disappointed if I clicked onto her blog each day and there was nothing new. ha. Thank you, Jawan, for sharing whatever is on your heart, especially those three precious grandchildren! I do get such joy in showing them off to my friends and co-workers.

I am excited about next weekend as I'll be going to Destin for a women's conference with a friend of mine. They have had it every year now for probably 10 or more years, and I've never gone before. She said God had laid me on her heart to go this year, so I'm hoping that means there's a special blessing in store for me. I'll let you know.

We had a new lady to join our church this morning (Judy), and she and I are becoming friends. She has also joined our Sunday School class and went to lunch with us today after church. She's single (divorced) and lives really close to me, so I'm looking forward to getting to know her better. I already know she LOVES southern gospel music, which means we have a lot in common. We all know that God brings people into our lives for a reason and I'm hoping this friendship will be for the good of both of us. She's looking for a job but is not stressing because she knows God will provide.

Ok, I think I "done good" ('scuse the English) with this post and I don't want to overdo. ha. So, until next time....Mom.

Another milestone!

2008-01-27T20:52:00.000-05:00

My baby turned 32 today!!! Wow, how time flies. Happy Birthday, Stuart, and I hope you had a wonderful day and will have many, many, many more. It seems when your children are little that they will never grow up but all of a sudden they are grown, gone from home and making a life of their own. I'm so proud of my three and pray that they will seek God's will for their lives and then have the courage to make the right decisions, live as they know they should, and put God first in everything.

Being raised in a preacher's home, I've heard, read and been taught all my life that our strength comes from the Lord. I've always believed that, but just recently I've come to know that in a new way. Going through this bout of depression, spiritual warfare, or whatever else you want to call it, I find that the only way I find real peace is to RUN to God's Word and talk to Him in prayer. Only then do I find my spirit calming down and my mind thinking right. I know God will see me through and that He has something good in store for me. So, even though I've seen and experienced answers, I still need your prayers.

Until next time...Mom.

To God Be The Glory!

2008-01-24T21:54:00.000-05:00

After two full weeks of intense TLC from my daughters, son, grandchildren, church family, counselor, and medicine, the "STUFF" I last wrote about is almost gone. I went back to work this week and, except for the first day, have had a very good week. I know I would be amazed if I knew the number of prayers that have been said on my behalf, and I'm grateful for every prayer, call, visit, hug, and card that came my way. I found that singing hymns out loud, quoting scripture out loud, reading the Word out loud, and praying out loud really put the devil on the run and gave me the strength I needed to get through the day/night. Hopefully, I won't have to deal with that kind of thing again, and I give God the glory for it all. HE is the One who saw that I was surrounded by my family and friends and answered their prayers (and mine). We serve an awesome God who does all things for our good and His glory. It is my prayer that I learned some things during this time that will be beneficial down the road for myself or someone else. I plan to be back at my post of duty at church (piano) this Sunday and can hardly wait. So, until next time...Mom.

Dealing With "STUFF"

2008-01-16T15:55:00.000-05:00

Gee, it's been ages since I blogged but have some pretty good reasons (or excuses). I've been dealing with a lot of stuff -- depression, etc. -- and even yet do not have a handle on it. However, I'm on a plan so maybe before long I'll be able to report victory. If you've never experienced depression, I pray that you never will. If you have, then you can relate to where I am and know that I need your prayers. I'm surrounded with family and friends who are doing just that for me and am so thankful God has placed them in my life. There's no reason I can think of that brought this on as I have a wonderful family, friends, job, home, automobile, finances, and all the necessities for living a good life. Maybe it's just a test God is putting me through to prune me for bigger and better things. When this is all over, I will be glad to use it for His glory if He so desires. It has rained all day today, so I've not been out of the house. I've watched TV, read my Bible, been on the computer, prayed, and talked on the phone to family and friends. I'm hoping I can spend the night by myself tonight without having to have someone come over the stay with me. I am on a mild antidepressant, but it hasn't had time yet to get into my system. Maybe in another week it will kick in and make a difference. So, between now and my next blog, I covet your prayers. Until next time, I love you.....Mom.

Blessings in Disguise

2007-12-01T20:05:00.001-05:00

My granddaughter, Emily (above - age 7), got to spend the night with me last night and a few hours this morning before returning home. We had a good time eating dinner last night at McDonalds, renting and watching Ratatouille (?), sleeping late, having breakfast together, watching Hairspray, practicing her piano lesson, playing on the computer, etc. Naturally, she did not want to go home when her Dad and brother came by to pick her up. I'm so thankful my grandchildren want to come to my house and hate to leave. I love them all so much!!!!

I initially had plans for this weekend before finding out that Emily was coming. A friend of mine had sent me four free tickets to attend a Christmas concert at the Cultural Center for last night. I gave three of them to friends at church who said they would love to go with me. Well, when I found out I could not go because of Emily coming, I called one of the friends and told them I could not go. Bottom line, none of them went either. I feel bad that free tickets were not taken advantage of, but I know I was doing what I was supposed to be doing - enjoying my grandchild. Next, I had planned to go with a couple of friends for the day to Market Days in Tallahassee. That didn't pan out either, but you know what? I'm not disappointed that I didn't get to go (except to enjoy the fellowship of my two friends) as, again, I had my priorities in order. After Emily left, I dropped off bags of clothes to the consignment shop for Angela, did some more Christmas shopping, had my nails done, wrapped presents, etc. None of that would have gotten done if I had been gone all day. So, sometimes our failed plans turn out to be blessings in disguise. There will be other concerts and other market days but Emily will only be little once and I will not be on this earth forever.

Tomorrow is Sunday and, as always, I look forward to being in God's house. I look forward to being with God's people, friends, and all the activities of the day. I hope everyone who reads this will also be in church worshipping. Until next time...Mom.

Christmas in the air!

2007-11-29T22:38:00.000-05:00

Grandchildren numbers 3, 4 and 5 decided I needed to get my tree up, so up it went. I think they did a super job of decorating it (of couse, it's not finished in these pictures) and I'm leaving it just the way they fixed it. Don't you just love Emily's "boots" (Christmas stockings that belong to someone in the family). ha. Can you guess what the guys were doing while the tree was being decorated? I love Christmas and can hardly wait to get the rest of my shopping done, gifts wrapped, and meals planned. The weekend is upon me, so maybe I'll get some of that accomplished. Later...Mom.

Tired and Thankful!

2007-11-24T21:45:00.000-05:00

Here it is Saturday night, and my bunch has just all left. The house is quiet as a mouse but in quite a mess. With 12 people in and out, that's all one can expect and I don't mind the mess as long as we are together. I am so thankful for my family. It' s been a wonderful weekend loving on the grandchildren, rocking the baby, conversing with the older ones, eating together as a family, shopping with my daughters, sleeping with little ones (trying to at least), making crafts, cooking, playing outside, picking up pecans in my front yard, watching movies, taking pictures, putting up the Christmas tree (partially - their interest waned before done, so I'll get to finish that myself. I've NEVER put up a tree before 12/1, so this is a first. What we won't do for those grandchildren!), seeing old friends, visiting with extended family, and on and on I could go about what we did. Maybe that's why Thanksgiving and Christmas are my two favorite holidays -- we are all together! Yes, I'm tired, but it' s a good tired and I look forward to doing it again in about a month. Until next time...Mom.

Remembering 33 years ago

2007-11-07T13:30:00.000-05:00

Didn't think I could remember that far back, did ya?! Well it was a memorable day as my Jawan made her entrance into this world. Yep, she's 33 today and I couldn't be prouder of her. She's a pastor's wife, the mother of three beautiful children, a wonderful Christian, and a precious daughter. I'm so thankful for all my children: both daughters being pastors' wives, both being mothers of three beautiful children each, both wonderful Christians, and both precious daughters. And last, but not least, is my handsome son - still single (but we're praying that God will send the "right" one to him soon) and just as precious to me as the girls. In addition, I have two wonderful preacher sons-in-law that I couldn't love more and am so thankful God brought them to my daughters. I'm just getting a little head start on Thanksgiving by counting my blessings now (as I do quite often). I spent this past weekend with Jawan and family and had a wonderful time. Took lots of pictures but haven't uploaded them onto computer yet but will do so soon. I'm looking forward to Thanksgiving when everybody will be at my house for a few days. Until next time...Mom.

Halloween

2007-10-31T23:05:00.000-04:00

Here it is halloween night but at my house you'd never know it. Since it is Wednesday, I was at church during the trick-or-treating. After church, six of us went to a restaurant for dinner and fellowshipped for a while. So, by the time I got home, the little goblins were all back home. What I did encounter when I turned in my driveway was what I thought was a dog in the street but turned out to be a really big 'possum. I decided I wouldn't stop at the mailbox to see what mail came today and would just wait until tomorrow morning. ha. I didn't bother it and didn't want it to bother me. Our receptionist at the office lives way out in the country and said there's a bear that visits their yard quite often. I think I'd be looking for another place to live!

I'm looking forward to the weekend as I plan to go to Jawan's as Abigail is being dedicated on Sunday. Can hardly wait to see those three little ones (as well as the two big ones)! I am so blessed!

You'd think I'd have lots to talk about since it's been so long since I posted. Nope. So, until next time...Mom.

Life is Full!

2007-10-21T20:46:00.000-04:00

I've been very busy the last week, but it's all been wonderful:

Tuesday night of last week: We had our ladies' meeting at church. The speaker I had lined up was sick and couldn't come (which I found out about the night before the meeting), so my friend improvised and wrote a skit. It was hilarious and such fun! Maybe we need to be spontaneous more often!

Wednesday night was church.

Thursday night, I sat with my mother-in-law for about four hours. She had back surgery about three months ago and has had no feeling in her legs since. I took my Phase 10 cards and taught her how to play, watched game shows, talked and had dessert. It was a good visit, but my heart was really heavy upon leaving knowing how this once vibrant, active, full of life woman is now totally dependent upon others for everything. However, her spirits are good, and she knows God has her in this situation for a reason.

Friday night, Steve and Emily came up and we all went to the football game. Thankfully, our team won so it was a good outing.

Saturday and Saturday night, Emily was at my house. She and I slept late, ate a good breakfast, went to Pet Stop and let her look at the animals and buy her cat a toy, went to Lowe's and Walmart to get groceries and a toy for her (yes, you can't take her to Walmart without buying her something!). ha. Back home and watched a movie, ate, picked up pecans in my front yard, played with her new toy, ate supper, had bath and hair washing, read Bible stories, had prayer, and lights out.

Today (Sunday): Steve preached at New Shiloh's (the church he pastored before going to the one in Florida) homecoming, so I went there instead of to my church. Angela and Ethan drove up as well, so all of the family was together except for Meredith who left this morning with the FFA school group for a week in Indianapolis, IN for the FFA Convention. Angela, Steve, Ethan and Emily left about mid-afternoon going back home (with Emily just crying her heart out because she didn't want to leave me! Aren't grandchildren wonderful!). I went back to my church tonight and to Dairy Queen with the usual bunch after church. Just got off the phone with Jawan, Andrew and Luke, so my day has been great.

Hope all of you have a wonderful week. I would ask that you keep Jawan in your prayers as she goes tomorrow for an out-patient procedure. Just pray that all will be well. Until next time...Mom.

Blessings!

2007-10-11T20:17:00.000-04:00

My children are at the top of my list of blessings. I'm so proud of all three of them - they bring joy to this mom's heart. I'm blessed with six beautiful grandchildren, two wonderful sons-in-law, a great job, a Biblically based church and pastor, Christian friends, a home, food, clothing, etc., etc., etc. There are so many more that I did not name (I'd be here all night if I named them all), but there are two or three more that I want to mention. God knows when we need a "lift" and sends just the right person. This week, those persons have been my sweet, wonderful, beautiful, godly sister, Norma, and her oldest daughter, Renae. Both of them have either called, or e-mailed, or both with such sweet words of encouragement and love. After sharing with them some low moments I've experienced recently, I picked up my Bible not thinking of any particular scripture except I knew I wanted to read in the Psalms. Guess which one I chose -- Chapter 143 (NASB version). I'm so thankful David shared his heart with us! He had many low moments as well and it makes me feel better to know I'm not the first (or the last). So, thank you, Norma and Renae (and David), for following the urging of the Holy Spirit to connect with me this week. We have put the devil on the run!!!!!

I had some blood work done yesterday just to be sure I'm ok physically and today I have a whopper of a bruised left arm. I knew it hurt pretty bad when the technician stuck the needle in and now I know why. The last time I had it done (about a year ago), I was not even aware of the procedure. Just shows that some know how to do it and others don't.

The weekend is upon us, and I'm looking forward to all of my extracurricular activities. ha. There are a lot of things going on in town and the surrounding towns, so there won't be any lack of things to do. In addition, our fair is in full swing this week, so I may go wander around down there a while on Saturday evening and people watch and look at the exhibits and animals. It doesn't take much to entertain me as you can tell.

Until next time...Mom.

Bitter Sweet

2007-10-08T21:23:00.000-04:00

There's no other way to describe this past week/weekend. Bitter in that Steve's dad left this earth; sweet in that I was with Angela and her family. Actually, there was more sweet than bitter: We know his dad is now with Jesus, and nothing can compare to that; Steve did a beautiful job preaching the funeral and I love him more than ever; Angela, Meredith and Ethan sang "Farther Along" a capella that was just the most beautiful ever and, of course, made me very proud; I played the piano for the rest of the service; and I got to spend a lot of time with Steve's family. So, how can we be sad when God is so good to us!

Today at work was very busy but good. Then I got a call from my friend, Ramona, asking me to meet her and Debbie for dinner and whatever else we might think of to do when I got home. So, I met them at Zaxby's for dinner, after which we hit Roses, Freds and Walmart. What fun to share time with good friends, shop and laugh, even though my feet were killing me. I didn't have a chance to come home and change clothes and had on my high heels that I had on all day. Ouch!

It's almost dessert time so must close for now. ha. Until next time...Mom.

Sorry for the Delay

2007-09-29T21:20:00.001-04:00

Revival was over Wednesday night of this week, so I have no excuse for not blogging on Thursday night. Friday after work, I headed for Florida to visit with Angela and family. Can you believe my two oldest grandchildren have their driving permits?!?!?!? Sorry the other picture is sideways. I couldn't figure out how to turn it on the blog. It was upright in my computer album but plopped on here sideways. Wannie, help!!! Anyhow, I got to their house in time to go to their high school football game (Angela had to take up tickets, so we got in free), and their team (The Raiders) won! Today, all of us girls spent the day in Gainesville shopping, eating and taking in the sights. And, boy were there some sights. Auburn and Florida were playing each other tonight and you've never seen so many people, so much tailgating, and so many skimpy outfits, etc. The game is on as I'm doing this, and it looks like the stadium is overflowing. Meredith chauffered us around and did a really good job. This was the first time I had ridden with her since she got her permit, and we were in MY car! But, as I said, she did a great job in all that traffic. I got home about 7:30 tonight and am looking forward to being in God's house tomorrow. Hope all of you are having a great weekend. Until next time...Mom.

I'm Tryin'

2007-09-23T21:24:00.001-04:00

Do you know that for a procrastinator such as I how hard it is to do an entry almost every day?! But, I'm trying, so give me credit for that. It's been a good weekend; no yard sale-ing yesterday as my friend (Ramona) had other things she had to get done and there were only three listed in the paper (I think because of the weather forecast no one wanted to do one). So, I had my oil changed in the car, bought a new microwave oven, and piddled until around 4:30 when I went over to Ramona's for dinner. She prepared dinner for nine of us (our pastor and his wife, the visiting evangelist and his wife, Bo and Debbie, me, and Ramona and Herman) and boy was it delicious (barbecue chicken, potato salad, baked beans, seven layer salad, iced tea, and pineapple nut cake)!

Our revival started today with Dr. Gene Winfrey as the evangelist. He's 84 years old and has just gotten over aorta aneurism surgery a few months ago. He was with us last year, so we knew we wanted him again this year. His wife, Wana, is so sweet and personable. She played the accordian tonight and sang two songs - she's 83. We are all excited about the services, as the two sermons he preached today were powerful!

Due to the above, I may not write every day. On the other hand, I may.ha. Do procrastinators look for excuses? Anyway, until next time, whenever that may be...Mom.

Meeting

2007-09-20T21:43:00.000-04:00

My church family came over tonight, and we had our prayer time for revival. Only eight came but we had a wonderful time praying, eating, laughing and sharing on different topics. I love my church family! I was a little disappointed that more didn't come, but I guess God sent the ones He wanted to be here. Therefore, I won't complain. Our revival starts Sunday and goes through Wednesday night. The evangelist is 84 years old and was with us a year ago. Boy, is he ever good! His health has not been good in the last few months, and it was kinda "iffy" if he would be able to come. So far, he and his wife (Wana) will be here. I do hope we have a good one. Until next time...Mom.

Ready!

2007-09-19T22:10:00.001-04:00

We spend a lot of time worrying about our house when we know company is coming. I'm no exception. However, I have decided that a lot of things are unnecessary and have learned what to clean and what not to. My church family will be coming over tomorrow night (Thursday) for a revival prayer time. I have vacuumed, dusted, mopped, cleaned the bathroom, emptied trash cans, put out clean towels, and made a list of things I have to stop and get tomorrow on the way home from work. I know you were dying to hear all of this so there, you have it. ha. I am excited about having them and hope we have a good turnout. I can seat about 15 comfortably and any over that amount will get the floor or stand. Whatever the turnout, we have to remember the reason for the meeting and make that our priority. I'll let you know how it turns out. Until next time...Mom.

Update

2007-09-18T21:21:00.000-04:00

Since I haven't talked to them in a couple of weeks, I called my brother to see how my sister-in-law is doing after having her mastectomy. Thankfully, I was relieved with the good report. He said she is awfully sore and riding in a car is very painful (bumps and jarring). Other than that, however, he says she is doing good. No chemo or radiation but does have to take some kind of pill once a day for five years. I think that's wonderful! He says he is doing ok, too -- just can't walk or exert himself for very long. As long as he's doing nothing, he feels good. ha. Can we relate?! Anyway, just wanted you to know her condition. Please keep her (them) in your prayers. Until next time...Mom.

Ouch!

2007-09-17T21:16:00.000-04:00

Ouch is right!! Since the weather was so nice today, we decided to start our walking routine again. We must have walked at least three miles this afternoon and I'm so stiff I can hardly move. Just shows how out of shape I am! I'm hoping I can get my mind to cooperate with my body and cut back on some of the things I love to eat. (Just had my coke float! yum!) But, you know, losing weight would be great but I enjoy the fellowship with my friend, being able to vent, cry, laugh, or whatever we might need to do at the moment. As it happened, my friend needed me to be there to just listen. So, for three miles that's mostly what I did. We came to the conclusion that prayer is probably the best and only answer. I'm so thankful for the privilege of bringing all of our cares to our Abba Father, Poppa God, knowing that he loves and cares and WILL answer in His time and in His way. Gotta go wash dishes so, until next time...Mom.

A Good Day

2007-09-15T20:15:00.000-04:00

Yes, it's been a good day. Got up at 6:15 a.m., dressed, drove over and picked up Ramona, and off we went to our yard sale-ing. I didn't find a thing I wanted, so didn't spend any money. Then we went to Rayann's and meandered up and down Broad Street for the sidewalk sale. We then rode to Moultrie and hit a flea market and on to their Dollar Tree; back to T'ville and had my car washed at the Depot and took her home. Whew!! I came home and zonked out on the couch for about three hours. Then out again to have my nails done. I'm home now and have vacuumed the house and am about to dust as I listen to and watch the Braves. Doesn't that sound like an exciting way to end the day? By the way, Jawan, I discovered today that Beverly Lewis' new book is out - "The Parting." Yes, I bought it and will be happy to share. I am so blessed yet so sinful in not doing some things that have crossed my mind to do. God's grace and mercy are new every morning and I must be more diligent in walking closer to Him. I received in the mail today David Jeremiah's new book - "Signs of Life" - and it is wonderful. So full of advice, guidance, and the Word on how to be "alive" for Christ. Ok, I've got to fix a bite to eat, get the dust off everything, and relax a bit before bedtime. Until next time...Mom.

Weekend!

2007-09-14T21:30:00.000-04:00

I really don't have anything in particular to write about but didn't want to let so much time lapse between entries. The weekend has started off good, however, having dinner with my friends (above - Herman and Ramona) at Fallin's with yard sale shopping tomorrow morning and breakfast afterwards. I've just been hanging out at home tonight washing dishes, mopping the kitchen, washing clothes and watching my Braves. A younger girl at work asked me what my plans for the weekend were, and I said I don't have any. She said that sounded really boring to her and she couldn't imagine having nothing to do. Of course, she has three small children and will have lots to do for years to come. My response to her was that I have been there and done that.ha. It's not that I have nothing to do; it's just that I don't have any particular plans. I have plenty to do (vacuum, dust, clean bathroom, etc., etc.. etc.) and will try to work up the energy to do it. So, I must go and remove clothes from dryer, fold, put away, etc. Until next time...Mom.

Ad Lib-bing

2007-09-11T20:35:00.000-04:00

Tonight was our ladies' meeting at church, and we had 16 ladies present. The speaker I had lined up to do the program called me after lunch today at work and told me she was not going to be able to be there. I had about an hour to come up with something to substitute. I understand her reason, but it sure was a letdown. Naturally, all of our ladies were disappointed also. I did book her for next month, so let's pray it doesn't rain that day/night. This is a school teacher who was on her way to school one morning (in the rain) and someone hit her head on. She was in the hospital for weeks and, at one point, didn't know if she was going to make it. She still has to use crutches to walk and has not been able to go back to work. I haven't met her but in talking with her on the phone, she sound like a really sweet person and very willing to give her testimony. She just has an aversion to driving in the rain and thought it was going to rain tonight. It didn't. Oh well, we know that God is in control. We had a fun time together anyway with my doing a short devotional and then playing a game about "What's in your purse?" Out of 24 items listed on my sheet, one lady had 15 of them so she won the prize. The person with the strangest item in their purse also won a prize (you'd never guess so I'll tell you -- hemoroid medicine!). ha. We had a lot of wonderful food and fellowship so it was a good night.

Ok, two nights in a row blogging -- how many times do you have to do something before it becomes a habit? I think I've a ways to go. Until next time...Mom.