Jersey Girl

Tagged

2006-06-09T18:13:00.000-04:00

I've been tagged! I'm glad. I've been so busy lately and have put off blogging for so long. Thanks, Sleepless.

Seven things to do before I die:
See my son get married to a wonderful girl
Visit Ireland with my husband
Go to Paris with my girls
Know that my grandchildren trust God
See the Grand Canyon
Have all my photos in scrapbooks
Leave all "papers" in order and easy to follow

Seven things I cannot do:
Snap my fingers
Snorkel
Eat beans
Play an instrument
Drive slowly
Move slowly
Tolerate lies

Seven things that attract me to men:
Integrity
A good sense of humor
Willingness to show emotion
Smile
Kindness
Compassion
Humility

Seven books (or a series of books) I love:
The Parsifal Mosaic
The Bourne Identity
Bible
The Broker
Streams In The Desert
The Active Word, daily devotional

Seven Movies I'd Watch Over and Over Again:
Notting Hill
For Love of the Game
Hitch
The Cutting Edge
You've Got Mail
Pretty Woman
Pride & Prejudice

Meme 2

2006-05-23T23:58:00.000-04:00

This if from Sleepless's Blog

What is your favorite word? Sweetheart
What is your least favorite word? puke - I dislike spelling it, too!
What turns you on creatively, spiritually or emotionally? creatively -gardens, spiritually - music, emotionally - my husband
What turns you off? Dishonesty
What is your favorite curse word? crap
What sound or noise do you love? The surf
What sound or noise do you hate? I'm with sleepless on this one! "the boom boom boom of bass in car stereos. You can hear them for miles...or so it seems"
What profession other than your own would you like to attempt? A teacher
What profession would you not like to do? Pedicurist, Auditor
If Heaven exists, what would you like to hear God say when you arrive at the Pearly Gates? Welcome home, thou good and faithful servant...

Mercy

2006-05-17T00:30:00.000-04:00

One day last month, my daily devotional took me to 2 Samuel 24:14
And David said to Gad, "I am in great distress. Please let us fall into the hand of the LORD, for His mercies are great; but do not let me fall into the hand of man."

The author made this observation concerning this Scripture passage: "David had learned that the safest place in life is in the hands of God, even when they're punishing you."

So much has happened in my life in the past few weeks and through it all I have been comforted by this thought, I am so thankful that I am in the hands of a merciful, loving, Heavenly Father. I am thankful that God is in control of my life, that He is the filter through which all things pass down to me.
What joy!

Simple Pleasures

2006-04-21T11:25:00.000-04:00

Saw this on Laney's blog, who saw it on Donna's blog, etc.
I enjoyed stopping for a moment to count the blessings.

1. An exhilerating walk

2. A wink from my husband from across the room

3. My children

4. The sound of the surf on the beach

5. My grandsons

6. Reading a good book

7. The scent of gardenias while on a walk

8. My pastor

9. Shopping for shoes

10. Learning to paint

Remembering Erma Bombeck

2006-04-07T11:26:00.000-04:00

When I was raising my family, Erma Bombeck was one syndicated writer whose newspaper column I looked forward to reading. Her stories helped me to "lighten up" and not take everything (especially myself) so seriously. The humorous spin on ordinary life situations caused me to adjust my attitude more than once. And often, just laughing - laughing hard - made me feel better. She was one funny lady. She put me in a good mood. Thanks Erma!

A cheerful heart is good medicine. Proverbs 17:22

The following thoughts were written by her after she found out she was dying of cancer. I can relate to these profound thoughts even more now that I am older. They are a reminder to cherish the most important things in life, relationships. And to take time to enjoy what our Creator has given to us. I hope they will be a blessing to your life as you read them.

IF I HAD MY LIFE TO LIVE OVER - by Erma Bombeck

I would have gone to bed when I was sick instead of pretending the earth would go into a holding pattern if I weren't there for the day.

I would have burned the pink candle sculpted like a rose before it melted in storage.

I would have talked less and listened more.

I would have invited friends over to dinner even if the carpet was stained, or the sofa faded.

I would have eaten the popcorn in the 'good' living room and worried much less about the dirt when someone wanted to light a fire in the fireplace.

I would have taken the time to listen to my grandfather ramble about his youth.

I would have shared more of the responsibility carried by my husband.

I would never have insisted the car windows be rolled up on a summer day because my hair had just been teased and sprayed.

I would have sat on the lawn with my grass stains.

I would have cried and laughed less while watching television and more while watching life.

I would never have bought anything just because it was practical, wouldn't show soil, or was guaranteed to last a lifetime.

Instead of wishing away nine months of pregnancy, I'd have cherished every moment and realized that the wonderment growing inside me was the only chance in life to assist God in a miracle.

When my kids kissed me impetuously, I would never have said, "Later. Now go get washed up for dinner."

There would have been more "I love you's" More "I'm sorry's."

But mostly, given another shot at life, I would seize every minute...look at it and really see it.. . live it and never give it back.

STOP SWEATING THE SMALL STUFF!!!

Don't worry about who doesn't like you, who has more, or who's doing what. Instead, let's cherish the relationships we have with those who do love us. Let's think about what God HAS blessed us with, and what we are doing each day to promote ourselves mentally, physically, emotionally.

I hope you have a blessed day.

Reflecting

2006-03-29T13:47:00.000-05:00

I am so self centered. I think of me all the time. I think about what I want to do, wear, buy, eat, say, create, want others to do and say. Where I want to go, spend time, live. I want everything I do to be centered around my wants.
A great problem arises when I am in this self centered mode - when my thoughts are directed towards me, I get depressed.

I am so thankful that the Holy Spirit lives in me and is able to pull me out of the pit of myself. I am reminded of that first line in Rick Warren's book, The Purpose Driven Life, "It's not about you." It's then that I 'renew my mind' and 'take my thoughts captive to the obedience of Christ'.

I don't want my life to be all about me. I want it to be a life lived for and to the glory of God. I want to be a blessing to others, beginning with my husband. I want to be wise and kind, serving others through the love of God. For these things, I will put my trust in the Lord.

But blessed are those who trust in the Lord and have made the Lord their hope and confidence. They are like trees planted along a riverbank, with roots that reach deep into the water. Such trees are not bothered by the heat or worried by long months of drought. Their leaves stay green and they go right on producing delicious fruit. Jeremiah 17:7,8

O Lord, you alone can heal me, you alone can save. My praises are for you alone! Jer. 17:14

Time Passes Quickly

2006-02-23T09:57:00.000-05:00

Has it really been almost three months since I have posted? Christmas is a blur now, my most vivid memory being running noses - those of my four grandsons, my husband, my daughter and then myself.

We had a very relaxing time in Mexico for a week in mid January. This year was our third year getting away with good friends to an all-inclusive resort. When we arrived home, I prepared for company and since then we have had wave after wave of house guests. I am told this is a normal condition for those who live in a warm climate during the winter.

A most exciting time is yet to come. Tomorrow my three grandsons are arriving from NJ - Laney is flying here with them and leaving them with me for a week. I am so looking forward to their visit. Besides getting in as much beach time as possible, I have other fun things planned during their stay. The following week, I will drive them to their new home in NC and stay a few days helping them get settled into their new home. I am happy about their moving closer to me - it's a day trip now - but sad for my other daughter and grandson who will be alone in NJ.
There are many plane trips in our family's future.

I hope to blog on a more regular basis in the coming weeks.

Jehovah Repha - The God who Heals

2005-12-01T23:53:00.000-05:00

A word of praise and thanks to God for his healing touch and answer to prayer:
My son Jon caught some bad bug while in NJ and was still sick when he returned to FL after Thanksgiving . He returned earlier than dh & me because he had a scheduled course in the Maritime Academy which began Monday -this is an intense, three week course which will qualify him for a Master yachtsman license. This is a giant step in reaching his career goal. When we spoke on Monday night, he was very upset. He was so sick that he was having a difficult time paying attention during school and he had hours of studying to do. He said, "Mom, you know that navigation book I was reading on Friday? I have to know the entire contents for a test on Wednesday morning. I don't how I will do it when all I want to do now is sleep." The most I could do for him was pray, which is the best thing I could do for him. We prayed then and said goodnight. I woke up during the night and I thought of Jon and began to pray for him. As I prayed, I had the thought that he was going to feel better in the morning. I just felt peaceful about him. In the morning, I told my husband about praying for Jon during the night and what I thought God told me. I said, "I am not 100% certain if I heard from God, but I am going to trust that Jon will be better".
- I have to say here that when I think I hear from God, I always feel the need to give a disclaimer. You know, in case it doesn't happen, then God doesn't look bad! *tongue in cheek* -
Around lunchtime, Jon called me. He was on lunch break and didn't have much time but he just wanted to let me know how much better he was feeling! "I feel almost 100% better than I did last night, my head is clear, my temperature is normal and I don't ache", he said. I told him about my prayer and the peace God gave me about his health. Jon knew God touched him.
To God be the glory.

Tired but Home

2005-11-30T17:30:00.000-05:00

We're home! Finally! We made it. Last night, Tuesday, dh and I arrived at Newark airport at 7:00 p.m. and checked in with JetBlue for our 8:55 p.m. flight back to Ft. Lauderdale. We landed in Ft. Lauderdale at 4:55 a.m. Due to high winds, Newark Airport stopped all landing and arriving flights for hours and hours while we sat at the gate and waited. We told our friend not to worry about picking us up (although he was willing to wait) and got a taxi to take us home - the ride cost us $54.70! At that point, we just wanted to be home.

Our Thanksgiving was quite lovely. We all gathered at my sister Kathy's house. By all (25 of us) I mean two of my sisters & their families, three of my brothers and their families (I am one of eight), Laney & her family and my son, Jon. I made a 21+ pound turkey with lots of sides and worried if we would have enough meat. We just made it! Our kids are growing up and have adult sized appetites now, a fact I failed to consider when planning dinner. Note to self: Next year, more meat. The family time was really good, the kids had a blast in the hot tub, and we picked our grab bag names for the traditional family fun night on Christmas Eve.

I love this time of year. I am so thankful that I had a Mom and Dad who treasured their family and instilled it's value into their children. Now, I see my children, my nieces and nephews, our next generation, assuming our family traditions, and it thrills my heart. I am certain that this was the desire of my Dad's heart. He lives on in our celebration.

I spent a wild time of Christmas shopping while in NJ. It was a well executed plan in which my daughters played a significant role. We shopped till we dropped, literally! Now, most of my gifts are purchased, some wrapped, and waiting for me when I return to NJ for Christmas. Thanks girls.

My husband and I attended a Murder Mystery Dinner at our friend's home the weekend after Thanksgiving. They planned this party for when we would be in NJ because they say "we are lots of fun!" Well, the truth is, we are. We received invitations in the mail which revealed our characters and we dressed the part. The setting was Chicago 1926 and Patrick was a millionaire gambler named Ernie G. Ambler, nicknamed Betsamillion. I was Molly Awbster, a socialite from NY who moved to Chicago because I wanted more fun and night life, I was a flapper. We had a blast. There were eight of us for dinner and we stayed in character all night. Thankfully, I am not sleeping with a murderer but now I can't get him out of the character. He keeps saying things like, "lets go to the track, baby" and "how about the Casino" Only kidding!

The very best part of my trip to NJ, as always, was spending time with my daughters and their families. My sons-in-laws are very gracious and kind to me, my grandsons are more than delightful. John & Jeremy & me spent an evening out. We saw the movie, Zathura, which we thoroughly enjoyed. The sounds of little Joe's "Hi Gramma" and baby Tom's laughter, singing, and humming while eating keeps replaying in my memory and it makes me smile.

I am blessed!

No TV

2005-11-14T12:06:00.000-05:00

Since hurricane Wilma hit south Florida on October 24th, the cable TV in our community has been out. As you may know, I do not watch television. I find many interesting things to do with my time and very rarely think of turning on the TV. BUT, my neighbors are not like me!
They are getting impatient to the point that they are worrisome. They gather outside in small groups angrily talking about the cable company. They compare amounts of phone calls made to the cable company and complain about poor customer service. Each one is certain that they are the most bored and most in need of television for a variety of reasons. I don't like going outside if anyone is out there. They want to ask me if I have cable yet, if I called Comcast to complain, and generally get me to join forces with them. I almost expect to see them carrying brooms and rakes over their shoulders and heading to the Comcast offices. They are that upset. Watch for them on the 6:00 News!

Back Home Again

2005-11-09T22:48:00.000-05:00

Yes, I know it's been a while. I was supposed to be in NJ from Oct.14 to Oct 24. Then Wilma threatened south Florida and my flight was cancelled and rescheduled. Then Wilma swept through south Florida and my flight was cancelled again. Dear husband rode out the storm bravely by himself but did call me during the hurricane to tell me that we might lose our patio. The windows were shaking badly and he did all he could to secure them. Fortunately for us, my husband, the Duct Tape poster boy, saved the day with his creative taping - not to mention God's favor was with us. We didn't lose any windows at all.

I arrived back in Florida on Friday night, five days after the storm hit, and couldn't believe what I saw - or didn't see because the city was in darkness, no traffic lights were working, fallen trees lined the sidewalks and blocked some streets. There were over four million customers without electric and there are thousands of homes that have been declared unfit for habitation.

On Sunday morning we went to early service and heard that Samaritan's Purse set up a station in the Church parking lot and was looking for volunteers to help people hit hard by Wilma.
My husband and I volunteered that morning and reported for duty on Monday. We joined the work crews that put tarps on roofs for people, to keep them dry and safe, and cleared away trees that had been knocked down. We also distributed water and ice, gave Bibles, signed by each volunteer, to the homeowner and asked if we could pray with and for them before leaving. To my knowledge, not one person declined to pray.

We spent every day but one last week working with Samaritans Purse. I went out with the crews 2 days and the other three days I became the "Girl Friday" at the station in the parking lot. I answered the phones and filled out work orders for people who needed a tarp on their roof, helped distribute tarps and materials to install the tarps to people as they came for them, processed volunteers for the work crews, etc. It was one of the most rewarding and blessed weeks I have spent in a long time. I listened as people told me their story of how they came through the storm and the loss they suffered. My husband went with the work crews each day.

Monday this week, I needed to catch up on all the house stuff - dear husband went one more day with the crew.

While trying to get back into the routine I realized that I really don't have a routine here. Each time I get back from NJ a new situation arises that takes most of my time and attention and the time flies.

So, I thank God that we are fine and our condo is intact even though there are so few beautiful trees left standing. I am thankful I haven't been electrocuted by the fallen power lines I have accidentally stepped on while walking. I am also thankful that my husband has this laptop with some sort of wireless connection through his cell phone which enables me to get online. We still don't have cable and may not until the end of November. I have become so dependent on the internet, it's hard to live without it!

"When you pass through the waters I will be with you, and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you." Isaiah 43:2

Guilt list

2005-10-12T15:30:00.000-04:00

I have been so busy here for the last two weeks, haven't had time for almost anything except preparing for a Women's Retreat, cooking, eating and a few other essentials. Now I am packing for NJ. Be back in 12 days.

Here's something for you to do while I'm away.

I found it on Na Uh! Ya Huh!'s site.

Bold all those that you ever were guilty of doing. When you are done, add one thing that is true about yourself to the end, then post the list to your blog.

I’ve run away from home.
I listen to political music.
I collect comic books.
I shut others out when I’m sad.
I open up to others easily.
I am keeping a secret from the world
I watch the news.
I own over 5 rap CDs.
I own an ipod.
I own something from Hot Topic.
I love Disney movies.
I am a sucker for hair/eyes.
I don’t kill bugs. (I kill anything that crawls)
I have “x”s in my screen name.
I’ve slipped out a “lol” in a real conversation.
I love Spam.
I bake well.
I would wear pajamas to school/work.
I own something from Abercrombie.
I have a job.
I love Martha Stewart.
I am in love with someone. (of course I am)
I am guilty of tYpInG lIkE tHiS.
I am self conscious. (at times)
I like to laugh.
I smoke a pack a day.
I loved Go Ask Alice.
I have cough drops when I’m not sick.
I can’t swallow pills.
I quit smoking.
I have many scars. (I was a tomboy)
I’ve been out of this country.
I believe in ghosts.
I can’t sleep if there is a spider in the room.
I am really ticklish.
I love chocolate.
I bite my nails.
I am comfortable with being me.
I play computer games/video games when I’m bored.
Gotten lost in the city.
Saw a shooting star.
I have had 2 serious surgical procedures.
I have kissed a stranger.
Hugged a stranger.
Been in a fist fight with the same sex.
Been arrested.
Laughed and had milk/soda come out of your nose.
Pushed all the buttons on an elevator.
Made out in an elevator.
Sworn at my parents.
Kicked a guy where it hurts.
Been skydiving.
Been bungee jumping.
Broken a bone.
Played spin the bottle.
Gotten stitches.
Bitten someone.
Been to Niagara Falls.
Gotten the chicken pox.
Crashed into a car.
Been to Asia.
Ridden in a taxi.
Shoplifted.
Been fired.
Had feelings for someone who didn’t have them back.
Had a crush on a teacher/coach.
elebrated Mardi Gras in New Orleans.
Been to Europe.
Slept with a co-worker.
Been married.
Gotten divorced.
Saw someone dying.
Driven over 400 miles in one day.
Been to Canada.
Been on a plane.
Seen the Rocky Horror Picture Show.
Thrown up in a bar.
Eaten Sushi.
Been snowboarding.
Been skiing.
Been ice skating.
Met someone in person from the internet.
Been to a car show.
Gone to college.
Done hard drugs.
Taken painkillers.
Met a celebrity.
I like playing practical jokes.
Seen all nine seasons of the X-Files.
Once swore Disco would never die.
Seen a ghost.
Attended a professional sporting event.
Attended a live rock concert. (do the Beach Boys count?)
Stayed up all night.
Lied about my name.
Thrown something at a spouse
After a night out, have gone straight to work without going home.
I cut all the wires in my husband's car for spite.

A word about prayer

2005-10-03T10:29:00.000-04:00

Prayer is not just what we say to God, it is responding thoughtfully to what He has already said and what He is constantly saying to us through His word For this reason, the Bible is an important part of our ongoing conversation with the Lord. As I read the Scriptures, I ask Him to reveal Himself to me and I find He works in my heart. His Word speaks to situations and circumstances in my life and my heart.

For example, I was reading in Mark 2:18-22, where Jesus was asked why John's disciples and the Pharisees fasted and he and his disciples didn't. Jesus' response was a question. "Do wedding guests fast while celebrating with the groom? He told them when the groom was taken away, then there would be fasting. He then went on to ask who would put new wine in old wineskins, knowing that the wineskin would burst and the wine be lost? (I'm paraphrasing here)

God used this discussion to show me two truths about my life -
1. He showed me that trying to fix something without His help is useless. He knows my tendency to want to fix almost everything by myself first, i.e., relationships, health, etc. This was a gentle reminder, and I love Him for his gentleness, that I need to bring everything to Him and trust Him to give me what I need.
2. God makes all things new. He doesn't want to do a partial work in me - that won't last. He wants to replace every part of my old nature and He does that from the inside out. The inside is where I can't make any changes, only God can replace the stony parts of my heart with new life.
He reminded me that the new is light, and the old is darkness. Then the questions came into my thoughts, Can forgiveness cling to anger? Can acceptance cling to criticism, judgment? In the area of relationships, I knew I needed to let God perform heart surgery on me, filling me with His grace in the hard areas of my "new" heart.

"Turn my eyes from worthless things, and give me life through your word." Psalm 119:27
Amen!

2005-09-26T17:31:00.001-04:00

Jeremy mastering the skimboard

2005-09-26T17:31:00.000-04:00

John catching a good ride

I'm back - with a sore back!

2005-09-26T17:30:00.000-04:00

My 7 day stay in NJ turned out to be 9 days. The airline called me on Thursday night, the day after I arrived, to tell me there was a change in flight times. I had a choice to take a 1-stop flight which would have had me traveling all day long or a non stop two days later. I chose the "stay in NJ longer" option, which my husband supported and Laurie did a dance around the living room in celebration. In retrospect, my "work" trip was loads of fun which I wasn't expecting.

When I arrived at Laurie's, I saw the writing on the wall. She told me she had started to pack and in her dining room were three packed boxes! I said, "that's great, Laurie". (And I thought to myself "we just have 6 rooms on the first floor, bathroom, linen closet, a full finished basement with numerous closets filled to capacity, Walter's office and laundry room to go.) But, we did it, we got it all done. My dear friend and walking partner even lent a hand (as well as a strong back and her minivan) and we got all the boxes from every room packed up and moved into the new house. The furniture and odds & ends got moved on Saturday, the day after I left. I consider that mission accomplished.

I wasn't expecting to have time for the beach but, being a firm believer in Murphy's Law, I packed one bathing suit. The boys and I managed two beach days! The second time we went, John & Jeremy spent the entire time in the warm and mildly rough water. The conditions were perfect for John to boogie board and body surf and Jeremy spent a lot of time practicing skimboarding.

The theatre was so much fun, too. Laney, Laurie & I left for the city at 4:oo PM as planned thanks to Laurie's hubby and Laney's mother-in-law. We went for dinner, which was delicious, and laughed so much the waitress asked Laney "Are you going to a show or are you the show?" We only laughed harder then. The show was excellent and very funny - the next day Laurie said, "I had so much fun last night I am still in a good mood." That about sums it up. The mood lingered through the work and preparation for Tom's dedication which was quite well done. The beautiful family glowed as the pastor prayer for Tom and his parents.

I managed to get in a visit with dear Miss Toni, too.

Oh, and about my back? Good News! The chiropractor said I'll probably only need about six visits to get me back to where I was before I pulled all the grandsons in the huge wagon and aggravated it by packing and moving.

Praise the Lord, O my soul and forget not all his benefits-
Who forgives all your sins and heals all your diseases,
Who redeems your life from the pit

and crowns you with love and compassion,
Who satisfies your desires with good things

so that your youth is renewed like the eagle's.

Psalm 103:2-5

Thanks for getting me, Jess

2005-09-23T19:45:00.000-04:00

5 Things

Laney called me today and told me I had to blog, Jess tagged me. So, OK, now I'm blogging.

5 Things I plan (Lord willing) to do before I die:
1. See "my boys" give their lives to Jesus
2. Have a good attitude (be wise & kind) all the time
3. Finish scrapbooking
4. Take my husband, Paddy-Joe, to Ireland
5. Learn to draw

5 Things I can do:
1. See a need and lend a hand
2. Be a friend
3. Speak publicly
4. Work hard & long
5. Shop

5 Things I cannot do (yet):(and I add, may never)
1. Drive slow
2. Work slow
3. Pray without ceasing
4. Snap my fingers (and I really want to)
5. Snorkel

5 Things that attract me to the opposite sex:
1. Smiling eyes
2. Sense of Humor
3. Integrity
4. A love for God
5. Humility

5 Things I say most often:
1. I love you
2. I don't know (my answer to dear husband's endless rhetorical questions about politics)
3. Oh, my!
4. How are the boys? and How is Tom?
5. PAAAAT (calling for my dear husband, Patrick, which I do loudly and often)

5 Celebrity crushes: (not crushes but faces I enjoy watching)
1. Kevin Costner (it's his smile)
2. Hugh Grant (again, the smile)
3. Bob Coy (my pastor, I love this guy!)
4.
5.

5 People I want to do this:
1. Cara
2. Jfur
3. Sleepless In Oklahoma
4. Laurie ( ditto on this from Laney, fix the computer already!!!)
5. Anyone else who cares to, feel free to tag yourself and let me know.

Home is where the heart is...

2005-09-07T04:08:00.000-04:00

...and my heart is longing to be with my children and grandchildren and I'm heading there right now. By 9:00 AM I will be in New Jersey and by 10 AM I will be with John, Jeremy, Joe, Tom, Laurie & Laney. Then tomorrow I will be with my son Jon, too. Aaahhhh!

My girls have my work cut out for me, I know. Laurie is moving into her new house and I am helping with the packing, Laney's husband is still out of town working and I'm planning on giving her some breathing time. The funniest part of this is, both the girls think I am doing them great favors - they just don't get that when I am helping them and spending time with the grandsons, I couldn't be happier. I want them to WORK ME TO DEATH!
See you in a week!

"You are my God and I will give you thanks; you are my God, and I will exalt you."
Psalm 118:28

A beach day?

2005-09-05T12:58:00.000-04:00

Yesterday, I felt so lonely. I blogged about it, but I didn't tell my husband because it makes him sad if I'm not happy.

This morning my husband awoke as I was having my quiet time, made himself a cup of coffee, and commented on the weather - we have had rain every day since Katrina blew through here 11 days ago. I told him the Weather Channel said there were 5 feet waves on the beach in Ft. Lauderdale and I thought it would be nice to have breakfast out on the pier and watch the waves. Much to my delight, he said, "why don't we go there now". WOW! I shed my nightgown, put on clothes and grabbed my umbrella in a flash.

This pier is a fishing wharf off the beach which one accesses by walking through the aisle of a small diner. You can choose to sit at the counter inside, or sit at a booth outside where you can have breakfast and enjoy the ocean breeze as well as the view.

Today, however, there was wind spraying rain on the tables, seats and diners which made people go inside but my husband dried off the seats for us and arranged our umbrellas in such a way that we were keeping dry without having our view spoiled. There we sat, having breakfast, drinking coffee, watching surfers ride the big waves. What a way to begin a day!

Now the waitress, who has been there for 34 years, came to the table grumbling about having to dry the tables, napkin holders and salt & pepper shakers for the third time. When I asked if she would serve us, she replied, "If you're willing to sit and eat in the rain, I'll bring it to you".
With that, she took our order, and became quite pleasant, to my surprise.

After she served us refills on our coffee, she sat down next to me and said "There's something I have to know. Are you two married?"
"Yes, we are", I replied.
"Well, usually only single people will do this. Married men will say, 'What, are you crazy, it's raining' and won't go out."
"Oh, he's a special guy", said I.
He is, isn't he?
"The Lord remembers us and will bless us." Psalm 115:12

Feeling Lonely

2005-09-04T16:42:00.000-04:00

Today, I am feeling lonely. I miss my children.
Friday was Laney's birthday and for the first time, I wasn't with her to celebrate it.
I haven't seen baby Tom for a month and I fear that he will not remember his grandmother, who loves him dearly.
I miss my son, Jon, who has been away since June.

Something Beautiful

2005-08-31T21:03:00.000-04:00

As encouraged by Donna, here is something beautiful - a view from my patio in Margate, FL.

The Big Apple

2005-08-30T10:02:00.000-04:00

A few years ago, I started taking my daughters into NYC to have dinner and see a show for their birthdays. Laney's is Sept. 2 and Laurie's is Sept. 11th (yes, her b'day is 9-11!).

Oh, we have so much fun! Laney gets to dress really *chic* and Laurie and I gawk. Last year, Laney's shoes were the fashion statement. They were 3" or 4" spike heels, very pointed toes in a pale magenta-ish color. She wore very cool jeans that accented her toned, lithe, runner's body, her jacket matched her shoes, a big bead necklace accessorized the outfit perfectly. Her hair was styled in a very cute flip at the ends which she dared to move (even her hair obeys). She was stunning! Laurie and I wore, um, um, uh, we were dressed. To this minute I still don't know how she walked the streets of Manhattan with those shoes. To her credit, she didn't utter one word of complaint. It's amazing what one will one endure for the sake of fashion.

This year, we're going again. I am flying up to NJ and will have the tickets to see The Producers waiting for us at the St James Theatre box office. I purchased the tickets and want to tell you about that experience.

________________________________________________

I had a discount code to purchase the tickets and found that I couldn't use the code online. I needed to order the tickets by phone. The orchestra seats that were available for the date we wanted were way in the back and off to the right. I found some good seats in the fourth row of the mezzanine when online and I asked the agent for those.

Agent: Those seats are not available.
Me: I just saw them online.
Agent: There are 100 agents, someone else must have gotten to them.
Me: I see them here on my screen.
Agent: Well, that's the problem, you have them on hold!

I closed the online window and the agent graciously waited for the seats to become available.
I thanked her for her patience - told her how much I appreciated her kindness.

Agent: OK, I have the seats here, they are $101.75 each x 3.
Me: Oh no, I forgot to give you my discount code.
Agent: Oh, that's bad. I have to leave this screen and start over. You may miss the seats afterall.

Now the agent tells me the seats are gone and the best ones she can find are four rows behind.
She tried to find better seats but couldn't - I know she tried because I could hear a series of clicks followed by a "no", "sigh". Frustrated, I finally agreed to the less desirable seats. Then-

Agent: Wait just a minute. I think I have those good seats. Boy, you sure must live right.
Me: You have them, really?
Agent: Yes, I do. They are available. Like I said, you are one lucky lady!
Me: You know, the Bible says that the steps of a man are ordered by the Lord. I believe the Lord went before me and provided those seats for me.
Agent: Yes, He did, because I never saw this happen before. God does things like this to show us His grace is real. This is so much fun, I am enjoying my job today.

I had so much fun, too. We went on to finish the transaction while talking about the goodness of God and the blessings He brings into our lives for no other reason but because He loves us.

God loves you - you are created for His pleasure! Rejoice in that knowledge today, dear one.

Friends

2005-08-28T22:46:00.000-04:00

Our friend, Richie, has been in intensive care since last Saturday, 8/20. He went to the emergency room on that day b/c he had a pain in his back that he could not tolerate. He ended up having surgery to repair a ruptured aortic aneurysm which the doctor gave him a 20% chance of surviving. When he was wheeled into the recovery room six hours later we were euphoric. We continue to praise God for sparing him and keeping him. Since then he has been set back by "shock lung", a.k.a. acute respiratory distress syndrome, which can happen to people who suffer trauma. Today, he is doing a little bit better. We are told that his recovery will be in baby steps.
Our days have been occupied with praying for and visiting with Richie. Not that he has any idea we are there, he is being kept sedated b/c he is on a ventilator and gets very agitated when awake. So when we visit, we watch the numbers on all the monitors, count his respirations, try to count the tubes which are coming and going into his body, and PRAY.

Richie has been my husband's friend since high school - that was over 50 years ago. The first time I met him was on the first date with my husband. He was the best man at our wedding in 1970 - he's family. He genuinely cares about our children and grandchildren and they feel the same about him. He is a true friend. We are sad that he is so sick.

2005-08-19T13:16:00.000-04:00

Joe is talking!

2005-08-19T13:11:00.000-04:00

The Boys, minus Baby Tom

Boy, oh boy, oh boy, oh boy & more boys.

2005-08-19T13:09:00.000-04:00

The Boys

These are the men in my life - the photo on my computer screen. My son Jon holding grandson Joe, John (with the hat) Jeremy holding Tom! My heart skips a beat when I walk into the room and see my computer screen.

Mail and stuff

2005-08-18T22:35:00.000-04:00

I am finally down to the last pieces of paper from the stacks of our mail and our son's mail which was waiting for me when I returned home last week. Although we use online banking and bill pay, there is still a mountain of mail when it stacks up for 50+ days. My dear husband had short stacks of it in several places, he probably thought small doses would make it easier to handle.

I haven't really been able to rest, knowing there was all that work to do. I don't know how to pace myself when there is a big job to do. My usual approach is to tackle it as soon as possible and not stop until it's done or my eyes can't focus or my body refuses to move any more. If my husband is around he will make me quit - if I make a big fuss about quitting, he'll go to bed and leave me working. He's Irish, but he's no fool!

So now that I have one more item on the desk - correspondence with the IRS that needs my attention *groan!* - I am mentally preparing a list of decorating projects I have put off 'til the fall. I'll have questions about color and such, but I'll keep you posted.
And, I will finish my France scrapbook.
I'm thankful for free time.

Nobody cares about you...

2005-08-17T00:03:00.000-04:00

...they only care about their own butt. That's what Laney said when I told her I didn't want to join the gym because I don't like people watching me.
Then she made me call for an appointment to tour the facility, which I did.
Then, she went with me, and brought the grandsons.
Then I signed up! What choice did I have?

In the beginning, I felt like a child whose mother left them in a scary place with strangers. Then I would remind myself of those encouraging words from my daughter "Nobody cares about you, Mom, they only care about their own butt", and I would concentrate on the workout. I found that she was right, people weren't interested in my reflection in those mirrors, they were looking at themselves.

That was more than three years ago.
Since moving to FL last year, I've been walking - and I mean WALKING! And because I left my car in NJ and we only have husband's car, some days I walk 7+ miles to shop, do errands, etc. While walking, I listen to books on tape which I borrow from the library or occasionally call friends and family from my cell phone.
That plan worked fine for the FL winter, when the temperatures are in the mid 70's to mid 80's with low humidity. BUT NOW, in August? Temperatures are in the 90's with the humidity at almost the same degree morning, noon and night. Uggghhh! It's sauna like conditons.

So - I joined another gym. I took advantage of the special family add-on at my husband's gym (he has always belonged to a gym). So now, if I go to the gym with my husband, (which is what he is hoping for) there will be someone there who cares about me - and my butt!

Camping

2005-08-16T00:45:00.000-04:00

My grandsons and I recently returned from an 8 day camping trip in the Adirondack Mountains on Lake George, NY. It has been my family's summer vacation spot since I was 10 years old. My parents found camping to be an ideal vacation for their family of eight children. To date, all of my brothers and sisters camp with their families. Some summers six siblings (with spouses and children in tow) can be found at Roger's Rock Campground on Lake George during the last week of July and the first week of August. We follow much of the tradition started by our Dad, who loved the mountains and lake. During the day we hike the trails, ride bikes, swim, fish, enjoy boat rides, waterski. In the evening, we build campfires, roast marshmallows, play cards, board games, sit and talk.

Boy, did we have fun this year! Reasons why?
1. My dear, dear, husband didn't join us and, although I missed him, I didn't miss the all the camping rules he enforces. I won't elaborate for the sake of space and time. This can cause stress.

2. My dear, dear daughter (the mother of the two grandsons) didn't join us either.
Laney has a difficult time keeping the woods clean. There is no electricity in the woods. She rakes the ground, sweeps out the tent and expects it to stay that way. We are surrounded by dirt and trees, in the midst of spiders, flying insects, birds, and small animals but she strives to maintain the campsite as though it was her living room. This can cause stress.

The kids know this about her, too. Here's an example -
John, Jeremy and I passed a campsite on the way from swimming which had a huge indoor-outdoor carpet spread out across the dirt, ending about three feet from the fireplace. Their picnic table was in the center of the carpet. When the boys saw it they said:
John: "My Mom would love that carpet. (laughing) If she had that, she would try to vacuum it."
Jeremy: "Yeh, and she would say, 'BOYS!, (imitating her stern voice) take your shoes off before you come on the campsite!'"

We were free! Bedtime was when we were too tired to stand up. Mealtimes were whenever we were hungry and snacks couldn't hold us. No showers (for the boys) although they did brush teeth at night. No rules! Except for the Candy Bus rules which were: shop the candy bus only once per day and only buy snacks, no toys.

Our tent wasn't the neatest, our campsite wasn't very neat, either. We did get to see the star studded sky one late evening. It was awesome! We took the boat to Prisioner's Island and caught mussels, which we had for dinner that evening. We built a sand mansion. I read a paragraph of the book I brought along. (Silly me!) We took long walks and bike rides. We went into the village and played games in the arcade. We had fried chicken in the Hot Biscuit, Ticonderoga's leading restaurant, and went to the Wind Chill for ice cream. We talked a lot, about a lot of things. We fished non-stop for two days (they all got away!) and Jeremy said this about fishing, "I want to do this for the rest of my life." John, the little workaholic, didn't talk about working all week. We savored every moment.

We had fun, fun, fun.

Happy Birthday Toni

2005-07-29T20:37:00.000-04:00

My dear friend, Toni, is celebrating her 91st birthday today, July 29th. Toni was my neighbor for five years, until I moved to Florida last September, and our relationship is a special one. Toni is a widow, she has one married son and two grandchildren. She has no other family and all of her close friends have died.

She doesn't like to cook, and I enjoy cooking and serving people, so I would invite her to dinner as often as our schedule would allow. After dinner she always cleared the table and helped clean up before we had dessert. Often, I would make extra to send home with her for the next day. Dinners at my house became the highlight of her otherwise solitary life and she sang our praises to anyone who would stay still long enough to listen. I often included her in visits with my grandsons and during the summer she would swim in the pool with them. She took care of me in very neighborly ways. Each week she deposited the community paper in my mailbox, she gathered my mail when I went away and kept a watch out for my home, she didn't like gardening so I planted flowers for the both of us and she watered it faithfully. One memorable service she performed for us was on the day of my daughter's wedding. Laurie has a little dog, Toby, and we needed a sitter for him on that day. I asked Toni if she would take him for a walk in the evening for us. "I've never walked a dog in my life but I would be happy to learn," she said. And the day before Laurie's wedding Toni came to take Toby for a practice walk! She did a very good job (she ended up taking him for several walks throughout the day) and thanked us for trusting her with Toby.

We only visited by phone over the winter. I reserved my short winter trips to NJ for my children, grandchildren and siblings.

Since June, when I returned to NJ, I have visited with her weekly. Other than one lunch at a local restaurant, each week she provides and serves lunch for us at her house. She insists on doing all the work, she obviously enjoys taking care of me. Other than a visit from her son once every three weeks for about an hour, I am the only company she gets - and,I suspect, I am the only one who hugs her.

The first week I visited, she told me the bad news of having been diagnosed with breast cancer and that nothing can be (or will be) done. The doctor has not told her how long she has left to live. She is still quite surprised that she has cancer - she's had good health all her life, she exercised regularly, instructed a yoga class for seniors for the past 25 years, and maintained a healthy, nutritious diet.

She says that my moving away was the first bad thing to happen to her. Her oncology appointment was scheduled for the day after I moved. When she told me about the cancer, she said "First you moved, then I found out I had cancer".

She told me that her hot water heater leaked and needed to be replaced. She began by saying, "First you moved..."

She had a problem with her heat and needed to call an electrician. She said, "First you moved..."

Her smoke alarm went off during the night last April - she called 911 and they summoned the fire department. She told me about this incident by saying, "First you moved..."

I know she cares about me and misses me very much. She has told me more than once she thinks of me as the daughter she never had. I care about her, too.

She talks incessantly when I visit. About her life, past and present. She is Jewish and left Germany in 1941 - an "organization" safely delivered her and her husband to Switzerland and they stayed there for a year until their quota number came up and they were allowed to immigrate to the US. She said recently she saw a woman her age, a Holocaust survivor, on TV. She told me that the woman talked about things she saw during that time. Toni's eyes were bright as she looked past me and said thoughtfully, "I saw those things too". We stayed silent for some time then.

I have been concerned about Toni's eternal home and the Lord provided a beautiful opportunity for me to share the gospel with Toni and tell her about Jesus, the Messiah. She listened intently and then I asked her if she would take time to think about the possibility of Jesus being the Messiah. She said she would think about it and I believe she has and is still considering the answers I gave to her questions. That is my responsibility, the rest is God's. He is faithful to be found by those who call upon Him.

If you think of her, please pray for Toni. Pray that she will receive Jesus as Savior/Messiah. Pray that her son and daughter-in-law and grandchildren will make the most of the time she has left and spend it with her. That is the desire of her heart, to be with the very small family she has. She asked me to pray that God, in His mercy, would take her in her sleep.

Beach Days

2005-07-16T22:03:00.000-04:00

I love the beach. I can sit and watch the ocean for hours (and I do).
It puts me in a good mood. It's a natural "attitude adjustment".
The sound of the breaking waves relaxes me.
I get renewed and refreshed when I am there.
I think about our God who created the oceans and declared them good and that amazes me.

I enjoy watching the birds skimming over the water, spying out food just below the surface, then swooping down and coming up with a fish tail wiggling out of the side of their mouth.

I enjoy watching children look for hermit crabs as the surf recedes. The crabs act as though someone has just opened the door to their dressing room and they run for cover. The kids squeal with delight when they spot one - then audibly sigh with disappointment once it burrows back into the sand.

I like finding sea glass, I pick up the chips and slivers and bring them home to add to my jar. Sometimes pieces are sharp and angled and I throw them back for more time to weather.

I am always on the lookout for unusual shells.

I love the way my feet sink down into the sand when the surf pulls back. I like the feel of the foamy surf sizzling around my feet and ankles.

I love bringing my grandsons to the beach. I began taking John, the oldest, when he was 15 months old. Jeremy, John, and I could easily become beach bums. We take Joe with us once in a while. He exhibits great beach bum potential. Can't wait for baby Tom to join us.
Sometimes I put my chair right at the edge of the surf. There I can relax and keep cool as I watch the boys boogie board or body surf. I even like having to yank my chair out of the sand later.

I love sitting on the beach with my husband. We sit and be quiet together and feel close. We walk along the shoreline and talk. His father taught him how to swim in the ocean as a young boy and he will swim beyond the breakers for a long while and then body surf like a 10 year old. Watching him from my chair or the shore is my form of fun. Sometimes I join him in the water and he makes it his responsibility to keep me afloat above the waves, watching me closely.

I love going to the beach when there is a storm. I am afraid and in awe of the powerful, huge waves. It is fearsome and exciting to watch and listen as the waves pound and crash.

I watch fishermen as they bait their hooks and cast their lines, waiting patiently for a tug on their line as they sidestep waves washing over the jetty. I enjoy watching the dance as they bring in a fish, then the subtle glances to see how many witnessed their success.

Surfers come out when it is high tide. I believe this is something that only looks easy. The paddling they do just doesn't seem worth the short ride. The surfers don't keep my attention for long unless there is one who is very good. By that I mean get up and stay up a while.(The first date I went on with my husband was to see Endless Summer and I fell asleep.)

My son left his job in the city to do what he loves - water, boats, warm weather. He went to Ft. Lauderdale, FL 18 months ago to work on a boat. He is currently the First Mate on a yacht and working toward a Captain's License. He literally lives on the ocean. I think of him when I look out, wondering how he is doing, praying for him, missing him.

I think of the Psalms in which David sings praises to God and tells of His greatness.

"I will meditate on the glorious splendor of Your majesty,

And on Your wondrous works." Psalm 145:5

Oh, give thanks to the Lord of lords! For His mercy endures forever.

Tagged By Gina

2005-07-15T00:38:00.000-04:00

I've been tagged. Gina tagged me. Being new to the blogosphere, I will do what I think this requires. That is, follow the pattern using personal information.
So, here it goes:
10 years ago - I was helping plan and looking forward to the wedding of my daughter, Laney. She wanted her whole family involved in her plans and I cherish the memories of those days. Laney included her dad and brother in the wedding gown shopping, all five of us went to the bridal salon! My husband had just retired (early buyout) from the police department and his part time video production business was evolving into a full time effort. I was very busy working with him as his secretary/bookkeeper/video editor. I also had a daughter in college and my son was a sophomore in high school.
5 years ago - I was adjusting to the dramatic changes that had taken place in my life in the last year (barely hanging on is a more apt description). We had sold our home and moved into a condo in an adult community. It was the saddest, lonliest, most confusing time of my life that God used to show me His power and grace. God gives beauty for ashes!
1 year ago - I was making still greater changes. I was preparing to leave my job as Church Office Administrator, packing up our NJ condo, which we sold, getting ready to move into our Florida condo permanantly. Leaving my daughters and grandsons was extremely difficult -- God's grace abounds!
Yesterday - I took three of my favorite men for lunch, John, Jeremy and Joe. I visited my former employer (who is also my former pastor) saw some old friends and shopped the Macy's One Day sale with my daughters at night.
Today - I had lunch with my daughters and four of my favorite men, John, Jeremy, Joe and Tom. I had dinner at a dear friend's home and was treated like royalty.
5 snacks I enjoy: Ice cream, potato chips, chocolate, Swedish Fish, Snickers
5 bands I know most of the lyrics of their songs: Australian Hillsongs Praise Band, Glad (a group, not really a band) Rich Mullins' Raggamuffin Band, The Beatles
Things I would Do with 100 million dollars: Take care of my children, give back to God as He leads, travel, probably have my eyes "done".
5 bad habits I have: I am not punctual, I am almost always running late. I have a tendency to interrupt when people talk rather than wait until they are finished. I run my car on near empty, I hate stopping for gas. I ignore my stomach when it says "I've had enough". I have a difficult time saying no to my grandsons.
5 locations I would run away to:The beach, any beach. The place my husband wants to run to. Nice, or another spot on the Riviera. Paris. Italy.
5 things I would never wear: Spandex. My husband's underwear. Pointed shoes. Too much make-up. Knee highs rolled down to the ankles.
5 things I like doing: helping people, leading Bible studies, speaking to women, walking, spending time with my children.
5 biggest joys of the moment: hearing the laughter of my grandchildren, watching my children and listening as they enjoy each other's company, my husband giving me a wink from across the room, church worship time, watching people respond to Christ.
5 famous people I would like to meet: George Bush, Denzel Washington, Margaret Thatcher, Jeb Bush, Bob Coy
5 movies I like: Notting Hill, Ray, Trains Planes & Automobiles, The Cutting Edge, As Good As It Gets.
5 TV Shows I like: I don't watch TV
5 favorite toys: computer, my portable CD player, my scrapbooking tools
5 people I tag: Be forewarned- this takes longer to do than it looks!

I tag Sleepless in Oklahoma, Jess, Laney and Jules.

Where Am I?

2005-07-13T23:16:00.000-04:00

Walking is exercise I enjoy the most. I try to walk for an hour every day. I walk anywhere, in any weather condition. I prefer walking outside looking at all the sights, homes, lawns, gardens, flowers, people. I will walk indoors on a treadmill only when desperate because it's boring. I have a NJ friend who walks too, and when I am in NJ, we walk together as much as schedules will allow. We are like postmen, "Neither rain, nor sleet ...

Last Friday my friend, Linda, left town for the week-end so I was on my own. Laney and I made plans for the day. I was to walk from 8:15 to 9:15 am and then she would take a 9:30 aerobic class at her gym while I stayed with her boys. Laney told me to walk the route she usually runs. She said, go down to the corner and turn right, then turn left at the next corner, at the next corner turn right and then go to the end and turn left. Take that road down to the fork and turn right, go to Heritage Hills and that will be 2 miles, then come back. Got it, no problem. I did what she said all the way there and found my way.

WELL!!! Now I had to return! I got to the fork and forgot to turn left (truthfully, I didn't even think of where I was going, I just kept walking straight). After a while the sights were unfamiliar so I made a left turn. I ended up walking in a big circle. I was feeling anxious. I usually bring my cell phone along but this morning, because the battery was dead, it was recharging in my car. I tried a few more streets and they seemed just as unfamiliar and, choosing prayer over panic, I asked the Lord to direct my steps and get me back to Laney’s. It had to have been the wings of the Almighty that got me there. I was amazed when I turned on the street that I recognized as "home". Thank you, Lord.

As I approached the house, Jeremy was outside waiting with little Joe. Not a good thing, I thought. Then Laney came out with John. She seemed upset. Are you ready to leave? What time is it? 9:30! Oh, no! No aerobic class for her today. Aawwhhh. I was upset because I got lost, I was so glad to be back and I was fighting tears. I didn't want to cry in front of the grandsons who were looking at me strangely. There seemed to be a role reversal between Laney and me. I was the irresponsible, delinquent child and she was the disapproving guardian. I was also embarrassed. I do things like that (not give adequate attention to details) more often than I like to admit. I just walked and walked without giving my return route a single thought! I amaze myself at how I just don't THINK!

"I'm sorry, so sorry, you missed your class," I said. "Is there anything I can do now?", I asked. Laney said it was ok and no, she would just stay home. I left her house and went to Laurie's, who immediately noticed something was wrong. When I told her I got lost, she was so sympathetic I began to cry. I showered at Laurie's and felt a bit better. Just a short time later, Laney called to find out how I was and told me how worried she had been, and how relieved she was that I was all right. (I think I was right about the role reversal. I remember being worried almost sick about one or the other of my kids' safety and then they would show up and be perfectly fine and I would need to make an attitude adjustment which sometimes took a while.)

I would like to say that this episode is becoming a distant memory but - that's not the case. Laney's husband, Kevin, knows about the incident and he loves to tease me. Since that day, if I call the house and he answers or when I leave his house, he says "Make a left!" And Laney has said, more than once, you should blog about getting lost, Mom, it's funny!
Yeh, to her!

You can do anything if you're wearing the right shoes.

2005-06-27T20:14:00.000-04:00

I mentioned that I needed a new pair of shoes to my husband recently. We happened to be at the mall and I was window shopping and saw a really nice pair of sandals. He encouraged me to try them on, so I did. I didn't love them for the price. After wearing them in the store and then trying on others (I think any female knows this exercise), I left the mall without buying anything. My husband, bless his heart, seemed confused and even a little sad for me. He told me how sorry he was that I didn't find any shoes I liked. The next week we went shopping for Father's Day, for him, and we looked for shoes for me but didn't find any that met my criteria.

1. I like good quality, usually expensive, shoes.
2. I like classy, unique styles.
3. I don't like to pay a lot of money for these shoes.

The following week my husband was attending a seminar in a hotel near my favorite mall. He suggested I go with him, leave him at the hotel, and go shop for shoes at the mall. He really wanted me to have new shoes!

Now, I confess. I really didn't need new shoes. I'm not sure just how many pairs I currently own but, I love shoes. And I enjoy shopping for shoes. Dear husband knows this and humors me.

So I went shopping and had success. I found a darling pair of sandals. Magenta kid leather with one strap across the front and a short, pale green heel. There is a pale pink magnolia with pale green leaves across the band. They were in my size and they looked good. I had to own them. They were 50% off the original price and then 20% off of that. Even still, they were about $10 more than my self-imposed limit for shoes I don't need and have limited wear-ability, but...

I bought them. I had little choice, really. I had to keep my husband happy. And he was very happy indeed. When I picked him up and he saw the shoe box, he laughed and laughed.

I'm from Saturn

2005-06-21T16:13:00.000-04:00

What planet are you from?

Here are my results --

You Are From Saturn
You're steady, organized, and determined to achieve your dreams.
You tend to play it conservative, going by the rules (at least the practical ones).
You'll likely reach the top. And when you do, you'll be honorable and responsible.
Focus on happiness. Don't let your goals distract you from fun!
Don't be too set in your ways, and you'll be more of a success than you ever dreamed of.

http://www.blogthings.com/planetquiz.html

Shipping Out

2005-06-20T23:10:00.000-04:00

I'm packing up and getting ready to shove off, ship out, leave the hot, humid, rainy weather of Florida and head up to NJ. As for the weather, I'm ready to leave it behind. The only problem with leaving Florida is leaving my dear husband. OK, it's only for four weeks - he's heading north in late July, but still... I am so used to having him close by. Who will listen to my endless chatter and never mind? Who will help me decide which shoes to wear with my outfit? Who will keep track of whether I took my vitamins today? Who will bring me coffee if I linger in bed? Who will pray with me at day's end? Or reach for my hand as I sit in church? Give me a hug just because I look like I can use one? Who will notice I can use a hug? Who will say, "You're beautiful" to me? I am going to miss him!!!

And he will miss me too.

We are blessed beyond measure to feel as we do about each other after all these years and all the "stuff" life can throw at a marriage. I am thankful for the commitment my husband has to God and me. He lives out Ephesians 5:25-31 every day. "Husbands, go all out for your wives, exactly as Christ did for the church, a love marked by giving, not getting. Christ's love makes the church whole. His words evoke her beauty. Everything he does and says is designed to bring the best out of her, dressing her in dazzling white silk, radiant with holiness. Ant that is how husbands ought to love their wives. They're really doing themselves a favor- since they're already "one" in marriage". The Message

Thank you, dear husband, for loving me enough to die for me. I know you have died to yourself countless times already. Thank you, dear husband, for giving sacrificially (not to mention all the shoes you let me buy!). You set me free to be the best I can be through your support and encouragement. I am amazed at the patience you demonstrate - whew! How do you do it?
I love you with all my heart.

What will I do with the rest...

2005-06-09T16:52:00.000-04:00

This is a question I ask about a myriad of things. Leftover food, clothes that don't fit anymore, clothes that don't fit into the "winter clothes to be packed away for the summer" tub, or clothes that don't fit into the "summer clothes to be packed away for the winter" tub. Or the latest Christmas decoration acquisition that needs to be packed away with the rest of the decorations until next December? Or the scads and scads of photos that are left after a page in the scrapbook is complete? And it's not just stuff that I don't know what to do with the rest of, either. It's emotions that haven't been expressed to my satisfaction, or shared with anyone because there was no one around at the time or because I wondered if anyone really cared so I chose to remain silent. Mostly, and now most importantly, it's the question I am asking about my time. What will I do with the rest of my morning? my day? my evening? my time here in Florida? my time left in NJ? the time left after a visit from my dear, wonderful, son. And for the long term, (if there is a long term, only God knows), how will I spend the time I have left most efficiently and effectively? I want to spend the rest of my time here on this earth serving God - I just don't know what that will look like yet. What hats will I wear for Him? I know I have gifts - now I need outlets for them. I am praying and believing that God will show me what, when, how and whom - I also pray that I won't miss the opportunities when they arise.
Dear Lord, keep me alert to see your hand and hear your voice. Amen!

My Japanese Name

2005-06-03T09:27:00.000-04:00

My japanese name is Matsuo (tail of a pine tree) Asuka (fragrance of the bright day

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Elaine Laffey

2005-01-22T22:27:00.000-05:00