Up and running

Imagine me dancing around my bedroom, singing,

"My Internet is back, my Internet is back!"

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Rosalie sent me a sweet comment (you'll have to go find it for yourselves!) where she says she pictures my expressions and body language. I've had others say the same thing when they read my blog, which makes me chuckle.

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It's such a long day without the outside world (i.e. Internet) but somehow I managed to keep my mind busy while not dwelling on the markets and such. Two of my account managers have called in recent days, and I jokingly, please note, jokingly, suggest to them they are calling to make sure I haven't jumped off my balcony yet! One guy, Alan, was giving me his spiel about keeping an eye on my investments and so on, to let me know he wasn't asleep at the wheel or anything. I gave him two pieces of advice: the "run in circles, scream and shout" ditty I used as a posting title recently as well as reminding him that the money doesn't really belong to us. It comes from God and He's charged us with using it wisely. Alan is a deeply religious man and appreciates sharing the Word in our conversations. He also laughed about the running in circles thing, and then told me he told his wife that I always "lift him up" when we talk. Wow, that was easy!

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Jill calls me on a regular basis when working on Danny's homework, asking me questions on his religion worksheets. Mom and Lynn say they get to help, too, once in awhile, but I am honored when she asks me. I wonder if we all get credit for the grade??? Tonight the question which stumped us was: "What are the four ways God answers prayer?" I came up with the first three right off the bat, the Yes, No, Not at this time, but lacked a fourth answer.

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Once I got home and could look up the chapter in Matthew, I still couldn't find the answer. So glad to have my Internet connection back, I went looking on-line and came up with a fourth: "Yes, but not the way you expected it to be answered". I hope that's what Danny's teacher is looking for. I suggested that she let Danny look it over to see if this seems at all familiar to what may have been instructed in class. I sometimes wonder how I'd do if I went back to school now......

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Justin called me again on his way home and mentioned a class I could audit if I wanted to, one he will be taking next semester. I can't believe he'd actually want me in his class! My initial thought would be that I'd hate for him to show me up in class but he said auditors don't have to take tests. I'm afraid the class would offer more information than I'd even want. He's so funny, though, when he first suggested I take the class, he cautioned that it wouldn't be all "blue doors and whitewashed houses"!!!!! That sounded a bit like a slam, don't you think? Yes, it was, and I found it humorous, because he knows me so well!

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At his suggestion, yes, this is so, the two of us are attending a Bible study at Victory on Thursday mornings before he goes to UNF for classes. The subject is "Heroes and Heroines of the Bible" which sounds quite fascinating. Nothing I've ever covered before, at least as far as I remember. We are meeting first for breakfast, again, his suggestion. I'll have to leave here by 7:30 am in order to make it on time, especially at that time of the morning!

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Earlier today, in frustration over not having any connection, I was in the family room trying to force the lap top to grab a wave from the air so I could send my e-mail. Usually I listen to the radio via the Internet as compared to the boom box so wasn't able to follow my 6 hours of listening/commentary. Instead, I turned on the TV and "watched" the program with the 8 kids and Jon and Kate. Several of my readers like this show on TLC but I am sorry, I just don't! Sorry, Dolly, I just can't warm up to it. The kids are absolutely adorable, although I can't tell them apart other than boys and girls, but listening to the squabbling of the parents-----I can't pay good money to listen to that, can't do it. The mom bosses the dad around like he works for her, as though she's the only one who knows the right way to do things, no, can't do it. I despise commercials that show men in a bad light, to say nothing about a "reality" show which does the same.

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Again, because of no connection, I did manage to get all my laundry done and much of it put away. I continue to have a problem with frisky ants on both my desk and dressers. Today I moved the ant trap on the dresser and saw a mess of them scurrying around when they should have been already trapped. Hmm, what's up with that? I opened the bag of cough drops from on top of the dresser and it was alive with ants! Immediately I zipped it back shut and took it to the wastebasket. Oh brother! I guess ants are better than other creatures I could have infesting my home!

Hurry Up and Wait!

The Palace Press is ready and waiting to be e-mailed to the Owners and residents, however----no Internet connection on either computer. My desk top computer indicated full connection until the moment I sat down to start working. There was nothing, Jerry, nothing.

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Justin and I had a chat earlier today about his potential living situation after his lease is up at the condo. Since his two roomies won’t be able to stay there after November, he is looking to find different roommates or a different place to live. Justin most certainly wants to stay on that side of town where he’s close to school and his playmates, probably more in reverse order than I wrote it!
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One of our extended Middleburg family members, Trisha and Randy, (sister of Jen) lives near Justin’s school and has offered a room for him to rent. He needs the room, they can use the income from his staying there. We will see them at the wedding on Saturday and can talk it all over then. Justin will be comfortable there since, as he said to me, "it will be like living with family!" He wasn’t sure about attending the wedding, having had tentative plans to go Tampa’s Busch Gardens for a Halloween event, but I guess that is not working out. Justin was torn about it, wanting to do both the wedding and the Tampa venture. I refused to pressure him, leaving it totally up to him. As of this a.m., it looks like he’s going to the wedding, but he just has to check with his one roomie first just to make sure. He’d like to let the other roommate know so he can make the plans needed to move up to NC to stay with his mom. Mike isn’t working or attending school, due in part to the injury to his leg from the jet ski. He can go be with his mom and figure out what he wants to do with his life. Moms are good for that, right?
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It is a quiet week here church-wise with pastor gone to Conference. There was no Bible study for us yesterday morning nor any tonight. All I have this week is choir rehearsal Wednesday, plus my opportunity to clean. This weekend will mark the first anniversary since I was struck with sciatica. The reason I remember is that I was cleaning at church in preparation for the Batkoski wedding on the 6th, and after vacuuming, I was totally done. The next day I was supposed to be hosting a New Member Welcome and had to ask for help since I could barely stand at all. From that day through the next two weeks it was all I could do to stand or walk, even lying in bed was awful. Dee introduced me to Carol, the massage queen, who turned my ailment and my life around!!! Every three days or so I could return to Carol for therapy and she made the big difference. I don’t ever want that to happen again, to be totally shut down by this malady!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

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But, right now, I’m shut down by this stupid Internet….which is much easier on my “system” than sciatica, although it hurts in the same place!!!!!!!!!!!!

"When in trouble, when in doubt, run in circles, scream and shout"

This is the advice I just gave my neighbors on the sun deck before coming upstairs to torture myself by watching "Fox" to see what's going on with the market, etc. When I first got down stairs, I commented to the couple who got there ahead of me that I needed to take a break from it and they thought it best not to discuss what's going on. As the others came out and joined us, we tried our best to not talk about it, but still the market and economy worked its way into our conversations. I suggested we'll have to move in together and Rose said that is just what Joe and she decided to do! They got married in Key West last Thursday, now trying to consolidate their households into one. I suggested taking the walls down between the units so we can all live together, which brought to mind the "Seinfeld" episode where Jerry suggests taking the walls down and Kramer says, "these are loading bearing walls, Jerry! You can't take 'em down!!!" The situation called for a bit of levity, if only inside my head....

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Okay, enough of the O'Reilly Factor! I can't stand to listen or look at John Kerry much less have him sit and argue about who is to blame for this mess. The gentlemen from my building who were sitting outside are of the mindset to leave their finances set where they are, saying that right now, it's too late to try to cash out. Hugh said if anyone did pull out their funds they'd be liable for huge capital gains taxes. Yikes! I like to hear what these fellas have to say because they have nothing to gain or lose by sharing their knowledge and experience. Hugh has often said he wants to leave his assets to his kids and not the government or an uninsured contractor!

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As my "high" today, Christine called this morning to ask about my beauty salon lady, Barb. Her mom wants to get her cut like mine, or, from Christine's description, more like Lisa's. Christine got to see Lisa when they were all down here in August and thinks that's what her mom would like. We also discussed the schedule for the Friday Musicale which begins its daytime concerts in November.

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Plans are made to have dinner together mid-month but not firmed up just yet. She has a bit more time available since she's not working with Brenda W. at the builder's office right now and real estate has dropped off exponentially as well. Greg's business is providing for them nicely which frees her up for more interesting venues at this time. Making hay while the sun shines. Christine discovered cooking as a time passer and has also taken art classes with me and at the Cummer. We share a number of interests including writing and painting. She's a voracious reader and encourages me to be the same! I'd first met Christine at Justin's confirmation party as she helped prepare and serve the bbq meal at home after church-----wwaayy back in 2002! She told me there's a writer's function at Amelia Island this weekend but with the wedding, church, and the Jaguar game......can't go to Amelia this weekend. NUTS!

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Joanne is coming back to town within the week, with her daddy in tow. He is going to an assisted living center with accomodations for Alzeheimer patients. Once he's situated, Joanne has to go back up to clean the house and finish getting it ready for marketing. Her other sister is there now to help with things but, as a Realtor, Joanne feels the need to make sure all is just as it should be before listing the property. I wish her well, and she's promised me at least a half day to just hang out and gab, gab, gab, getting all caught up on what's gone on in the months since she's been away.

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There is a girl on "What Not to Wear" tonight who reminds me very much of Linda J.'s daughter, Jen, whom I just saw at Lynn's birthday party. She not only sounds like her but also resembles her physique, except that Jen is quite tall. This young lady is in a PhD program for music while Jen recently graduated as a registered nurse and works in an o.b. unit at a hospital in Madison, WI. So, as I watch them dress this victim on their show, I am thinking about Jen....and, of course, Linda!!

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Lynn and Alayna were supposed to go cropping with Linda at the new shop Friday night but am not sure that happened. Lynn had gone down to Sheboygan to help with the boys because Lisa had a doctor appointment for her weeks' long ailment. Thankfully she was diagnosed quickly as having an infection in her intestines and was given some antibiotics and pain medication to help her feel better. I was hoping she wasn't having the same problems I did years after my C-sections and need surgical repairs. Because she wasn't feeling well, we didn't get to spend quite as much time together as usual. So, now I rejoice that she's on the road to recovery and will be like her old self in no time!

A wonderful Sunday

All settled in for the night, ready for sleeping. Part of my weariness might be from my lemonade and tea-flavored vodka drink which I enjoyed in the company of my neighbors on the sun deck. Man, it was great to see them again, many for the first time since I got back from WI. Much to our delight, we found out our formerly single neighbor on fourth floor is now a married lady, just returning last night from Key West where they got married. Something newsworthy for The Palace Press! I've been looking for something to write about, so now I know! The lady was widowed several years ago and in her "old" age has found someone to share life with---here with her in The Palace! Next week our own Travis is getting married so we'll have two honeymooning couples within a month's time, up on fourth floor!

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Justin and I met here after church and I made brats and brat patties for our lunch. Talk about a delicious meal, and great smelling kitchen! Justin liked the brat patties, saying he liked the idea of having something not exactly the same as usual. My dishwasher is busily washing the fry pan, a cast iron one, not "supposed" to be washed in there but, hey, it's my pan, I can rust it if I want!! The stove is quite splashed full of greasy spatters but it will wait until tomorrow because I don't feel like taking care of it any more tonight.

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Justin and I enjoyed the Jaguar game which went into overtime and was won by a field goal, same as last week's game. Yippee!!! We missed it last week but loved seeing it repeated today. After the game we decided to go shopping at Wal-Mart. I had a couple disposable cameras to have developed from my trip to Manty, since I so cleverly left my "big" camera here at the condo by mistake. The disposables allow me to get a CD of prints so I can post and share as needed, like the digital one does. I hope there are salvageable shots on them, since I can't see what I'm taking like I can on the Canon!

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It was nice to see my church family again this a.m. at worship. Many people asked about how the weather was, wondering if it was "nice" (i.e. cool) but, of course, I had to tell the truth, it was nice but cool isn't what I like! I do remember sitting in the family room at Arno's and having the sun shine warm me as I sat there. It was so lovely and warm that it made Harvey's eyes go shut! He had to go sit in a kitchen chair so he wouldn't fall asleep. Love that sun on my neck and shoulders!

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I sure did love the movie yesterday, even though my hands were freezing. It was so romantic and the ending had such a twist that it blew me away. Well worth the money to see it again if anyone wants to go see it. I wonder if this inn actually exists somewhere, because it was certainly a gorgeous treasure of a place to stay, even if in a hurricane! Won't give it away, though...........After the movie I went immediately to Joe's Crab Shack, arriving right behind the rest of the ladies for the "bachelorette" party. It was quite busy but it wasn't long before we got seated. Service was slow but there was no rush at all. Three of us were family or family-friend, and the rest were Kristin's co-workers. The wait staff came over and sang a little ditty to her, the chorus from "Good-bye": "nah, nah, nah, nah, nah, nah, hey, good-bye!"

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And, I'll say the same right now: good-bye!

Three Comments so far today

and only one comment about "The Story of Us". Judy is excused because she has no cable TV at her house.....

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Thank you for your comments and remember, I normally answer the Comments on the comment page. I comment on your comments--a never ending cycle of comments!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Scattered thoughts

Multi-tasking Rules!

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Too many jobs facing me right now. This morning I was "invited" to serve on a personnel committee and to edit a survey letter from the condo president. I can help edit the survey/letter but am fairly certain I won't have time for the other committee. My concern with that one is I'll be expected to be heavy handed with our paid people and I really don't want to do that. I love my role of peace maker or peace keeper, but also don't wish to shirk my responsibilities as an owner here at The Palace!

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I am going to the movie today by myself which is cool, but prior to that is a visit to the bookstore to see if I can find the book and DVD I've been looking for. Justin has plans to attend a football game with a high school friend today so isn't going to church this afternoon. After church tomorrow he's coming over here to watch the football game and have some brats!

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On my reality show, What Not to Wear, the gang is making-over a set of female triplets from Minneapolis. It's faster paced because of having three to shop, cut hair and apply make-up....wow, they look great! And don't sound overly Minnesotan in their diction. None of the girls were allowed to see or shop with each other and won't see their sisters until the big reveal when they get back home. Have the tissues ready! One of the things which I LOVE about this program is the street scenery of New York City!!! Oh, on the big reveal, all three girls went first to hug each other and then straight to their mommy!

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Speaking of love, have you seen the advertisement for Prudential Life Insurance where the little boy asks his daddy about life insurance: what is it?, do we have it? and the daddy offers assurance to the little guy that they do have insurance in case anything happens to his daddy......boo hoo hoo..... If you fathers out there don't run right out and get life insurance this minute, I am going to smack you!

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There's also an ad showing a teenaged boy in a courtroom with his parents and lawyer, and is found liable for personal damage to property with a car. He has to pay $100,000, and the suing attorney tells them he'll get his college fund, his parent's retirement savings, and even have them sell their home to pay his settlement. The sweet part is the young man turning toward his parents and saying softly and sadly, "I'm so sorry". Yes, I'll bet he is, and is sad because of the terrible financial hardship he's imposing on parents by doing something stupid with his car. It really "drives" home the point of acting like a hot dogger (a.k.a. jet skier) and the ramifications thereof.

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State Farm has an ad where a dad is standing in his living room window, cradling a newborn baby and says, basically, he is at the point in his life where it's just not about him anymore. In way too many cases, that thinking leaves their minds, but, for now, I love looking at this picture.

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Just prior to the WNTW program was the very tail end of a fashion design "reality" show where people evidently were vying to "dress" a star for some event. Of course, the 'man' designer is the one who won, and the two women who didn't win handled it like troupers. But, the male whose design was chosen, was bawling like a baby. There should be a sign posted that says "Please don't feed the stereotype!", to borrow from Justin. Dee and Julia were talking about the reality programs they enjoy watching, many on the cooking channel. I don't think my TV picks up that station......

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It's time to go to the bookstore and movies so I have to change my clothes to make myself warm because it's always cold in the theater. Even Justin freezes when we are there. I might take a look at Payless because they send me such wonderful advertisements via e-mail which are quite enticing. Lisa said something funny when she was a little girl though: "They say they're Payless, but they're not!!" From the mouth's of babes!

Saturday on the river

Sssshhhh! It's so quiet out there this morning, it's spooky! The water level is high yet but absolutely no wave action, which I think makes for perfect fishing conditions.

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Well, I did have my personal high last night by winning at Scrabble and totally alienating my playmates, unintentionally, of course. It was merely an accident that I was able to empty my entire rack of tiles, covering two triple word scores as the final play of the game...........using the word: printing, now valued as a 224 point word!!! We never did determine the total score, but Kathy B. remarked that my "printing" earned more points than any of them had total. Somehow the piece of paper used for score keeping was shredded immediately. Guess we won't be playing THAT game again any time soon....We did have great fun playing "Catch Phrase" which is a cross between hot potato and Password.

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Sadly, only two girls showed up for Youth Group so Pastor, Paul, and the girls watched "Narnia" and then joined us in the Fellowship Hall for pizza. They didn't play the games with us at all, were doing their own thing in another corner. Maybe it will take a couple months for the word to spread about Youth Group, which has been idle in our congregation for some time. I am so glad someone stepped up to make it happen again! I've not seen or read any of the Narnia stuff and Emily wants me to borrow their DVD so I can watch. I think it's the "Lion, Witch, and Wardrobe" story, isn't it? I can look it up......Yup, it is from C. S. Lewis.

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The movie "Nights in Rodanthe" came out yesterday and Martie and I might go see it today when she's done working. It depends upon how much she got done last night with packing for her vacation. Her hubby and she leave Sunday for a trip to PA to see her sister. Martie will have her stuff ready to go, but she couldn't promise anything about Ernie's packing! He is a busy man, you know. This is not really the case, but he told his doctor the other day that he is active. Martie about fell off her chair! Nothing could be further from the truth, at least in present times. Years ago he served our country as a Navy SEAL so I guess he's entitled to be the tiniest bit "not active" in his later years! Back to the movie---I love Diane Lane and Richard Gere together in a movie, and have to not pay any attention to their politics or life-styles while enjoying the movie. It's based on a book by Nicholas Sparks and looks to be my kind of heart-wrenching, shirt dampening story! More ganging up on me occurred last night when Kathy told me she'd read the book..............................."There's a book????"

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If Martie can't go today, I might just go myself. This is how badly I wish to see the movie. If it's wonderful, I'd probably go again with whomever wishes to join me. The timing will have to be just right if I decide to see the movie, attend church with Justin and then get out to Joe's Crab Shack for a bridal shower. My type of shower!!! It's been months since I've been there and I really need to go. My friend, Jen's sister, Kristin, is getting married soon and her co-workers are giving her the party. I'm skipping the parts before and afterward but definitely will love the part at Joe's!!! I plan to take Judy R. there when she comes down for her visit in November. Whee! We're going to have so much fun!

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Today is my oldest sister, Carol's, birthday, and she is 63! You know you're getting old when your sisters are having birthdays beginning with the number 6!

Please Note: There were actually two postings yesterday.....goofy Internet!!!!!

Personal highs and lows

In watching the end of "The Story..." last night, and again watching it today, I am considering the parts where Ben and Katie's family would sit around the dinner table and revisit their personal highs and lows of the day. What an excellent recap and evaluation of what makes up a day in peoples' lives. How often don't we just do and do and do and not even pay attention to stuff around us, and how it affects us or others? Think about it...

I already had a number of highs today, including getting my toes and my fingers done, at least partially done. Lisa looked at my nails and determined they need more hydration, which means another mark in the corner of water drinking. Who'd think? She put a clear layer of nail treatment on them instead of my standard garish color, saying the nails needed to breathe. They need more hydration to help keep the ridges and peeling to a minimum. I was aware of the peeling and Lisa W. said it would help, so, I'll do it!

I'd called Brenda W. to see if she'd want to meet for lunch but it turned out she isn't working today. What? On a Friday, the busiest day in a builder's office? It seems both Jimmie and she are off work on Fridays now because of work cutbacks. Ouch! I just hate to hear this kind of stuff, you know?

My low would be having thought the posting was saved only to find out it wasn't. My signal has been fluctuating the past two days so that's probably what happened here. Let's see if I can recreate what I wrote...

I wrote about having lunch with Dee and Julia at Koko's today, which would be my personal high so far. Tonight my plans have been changed by the church calendar, scheduling youth group with pizza/game night on Fridays instead of the last Sunday. Oops, glad they brought it to my attention at choir on Wednesday. I was going to an Open House at The Club but it's no big deal if I go or not, because I really missed my church family when I was gone. My next "high" might be winning at Scrabble!

Can't remember what else crossed my mind and was lost in the air somewhere over Orange Park. I hope you have more highs today than lows!

Remarkable Grace

It’s 8:00 a.m. Friday and I’ve already been crying. In the wee hours of the morning I get to hear/see old episodes of JAG, a military courtroom drama. Not all the drama takes place in chambers, of course, and what made me cry was seeing one of the major (actually a lieutenant!) players return from Afghanistan minus a part of his leg. Today’s episode had his wife seeing it for the first time and she showed remarkable grace in handling the situation. In essence, she told her husband she’d have a much tougher time looking at his casket than a bandaged leg. Yesterday’s show was just as emotional, with the normally non-plussed Cmdr. Rabb shedding tears of relief when the surgeons managed to save this same man’s life, even having him come back to life after having been declared dead.

Something really strange happened here yesterday—the dredger machine in the basin and its matching barge just up and sailed down the river toward Jacksonville. Just like that! I’d only a few days earlier commented about them still working out there and now it’s gone! The larger of the barges remains beyond the basin but I see no activity out there, no little boat scooting around like before. The water level is high yet this a.m. but no wave action at all, the grasses below my window barely showing above the surface. One thing about living on the lake, it was mostly calm waters with many, many more mullet jumping, sometimes making the only “noise” audible. At least, before the boats and jet skis woke up.

When Justin and I first moved to the lake, Mom and Lynn came down to see the place. We hadn’t completely settled in but we still could make them comfortable. Lynn and I walked out to the end of the dock one morning, and, fortunately, had the camera in hand. Again, it was fairly quiet, but then, we heard this sort of snorting sound from a few docks down. At one point water spewed into the air and it was then I realized what was coming our way---a herd of sea cows! At least seven or so passed right under my dock where we stood, and I was snapping and laughing at the same time. Unbelievable! This was August and not really manatee season but no one evidently told them about it! They just seemed to be passing through, amusing folks as they went.

Well, last evening I watched the end of the movie I recommended yesterday. It is so much better without commercial interruptions. In speaking with Martie about it, I decided “The Story of Us” would be good purchase for my permanent collection. Normally I don’t care to purchase movies as I don’t watch them over and over (okay, okay----so I know a few of them by heart---sue me!!!!), but only buy the ones which I will watch again and again. “Phantom” comes immediately to mind, “Under the Tuscan Sun” and “My Big Fat Greek Wedding” are favorites. Also, “As Good As It Gets” is repeat-worthy. And, I don’t have to tell you about “The Bucket List”…..”like smoke through a key hole…..”: Edward Cole’s description about how quickly time passes. I am going to Middleburg today to have myself groomed so might stop at the world-class Wal Mart to see if they have “The Story of Us” on their shelves and to also look for the book Judy R. recommended. The Shack synopsis tells the story of a man in mid-life crisis is mourning the loss of his daughter who’d died a couple years earlier on a camping trip. Yes, Judy, I will hang on for this double whammy!

I’ve decided to have Lisa Woodruff do my finger nails as well as my toes (I usually have her do the nails I can’t reach!!!) because my nails are peeling and need that grinder tool used on them to smooth the ridges. When it gets later in the morning, I’ll call Brenda W. or Christine to see if they are available for lunch.

Martie and I went to a health fair at the Thrasher-Horne last night when she was done working. We toured the displays and even got to see my former general practitioner doctor Boyd. He remembered me!!! He was the doctor I saw before my current one, but he’d left to sail around the world. Last night he said he’d gotten it out of his system, and I have to wonder if he didn’t leave just to get away from that rotten insurance stuff like my lady doctor did. Deborah is on a medical sabbatical to Qatar, and when we hugged each other “good-bye”, I thanked her for going to do mission/medical work there. Deborah told me that was only part of the reason, that she was sick and tired of having the insurance companies calling the shots and not allowing her to practice medicine ethically or as necessary because they held the money purse! So there! I can see how frustrating it must be, to have hands tied because someone else is paying the bill. Because of third-person-payers, first-person-payers can’t afford to pay out of pocket anymore!

I can’t help but relate the story of Justin’s first visit to see Deborah after Dr. Boyd left. I’d been going there for a bit before Justin needed to see a doctor so I’d already formed a bond with her. She’d purchased the stackable washer and dryer from the lake house from me to use in her office, before I met her. I got treatment-in-kind to pay for the machines, works for me! Anyway, when she walked into the exam room expecting to see only a teen-aged boy, she saw me sitting in the chair next to Justin. We hugged each other as usual and then she stuck out her hand to Justin saying, “I’m Dr. Harter, a devotee of your mother.” That’s all he had to hear, the deck was stacked against him from that point on!!!! When she tried to poke and prod him as he lay on the table, he kept giggling because of being terribly ticklish. Try as he might, he couldn’t help but draw up and try to get away. He kept saying, “I’m sorry, I’m sorry” all the while giggling. My big boy!

Just when I’ve about decided to keep Comcast as my Internet provider, they mess up and cause me to have no connection—AGAIN! I’m truly torn as to what to do because someone else cautioned me about Bellsouth/ATT being less than trustworthy. I did notice yesterday that the TV was out of whack as well, so perhaps work was being done on a company-wide level which affected both the Internet and TV service. Late afternoon I sat down to watch some episodes and have some on there since before Christmas. Many of them are Frasier programs and I’ll guess that they didn’t get watched because Justin got me the first four seasons on DVD. Those can be played on my computer, which allows me to stay in place here at the window instead of shutting down and going to sit idly in the family room. He’s also shown me how to connect to Internet floating through the air in my family room so even if I’m in there vegging out, I can still be “working” on something while I view. Carol Douglas hates this word but I like it—multi-tasking! Speaking of which, I am sweating as I write, since the sun is beating on me at present. So, I can write and perspire at the same time! What a talent!

I must have words left over!

My dear friend, Judy R., sent me a note yesterday urging me to read a book called "The Shack" and told me to hang on for dear life. I read a synopsis of it and yes, Judy, you are correct, I need to read the book! I already read the "Dinner with a Perfect Stranger", loaned to me by Linda J. and loved that as well. Amazon sells these two books as a pair, which is why I mention them both. Bye for now, have to run to the store for the book!!!!!

I think you guys are all ganging up on me to make a reader out me...hear that, Christine????

The Story of Us

Set your DVRs or VCRs for a great movie on Lifetime tonight. It's called "The Story of Us" with Bruce Willis and Michelle Pfeiffer, from 1999. I know, I know, my son doesn't like me to watch that channel under normal circumstances but tonight, I can make an exception. If you read my profile for this blogsite, you'll find this movie listed under Favorite Movies, so just know I have history with this one.

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I saw this movie on an airplane back in early 2000, which my friend, Jimmie and I like to say "sucked". Not the movie, the turn of the century fluff. Neither of us were all that thrilled with the new millenium, let me tell you! I was still married at the time but had only a short while prior been informed he was no longer "in love", as it were, the whole cliched mess after 25 years of marriage. That was the beginning of the roller coaster we rode until finally "dissolving" in 2004. Pete rode the roller coaster with me, helped me to hang on and held the barf bag when I needed it. So, anyway, I just wanted to set the background for the scenario under which I viewed this movie.

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To not give it away, at least too much, imagine yourself in the situation I found myself and watching this movie in a "theater" from which you could not depart....so I watched. My former spouse was asleep, or at least looked that way, so I was more or less alone with the 400 others on the flight. This trip was something we earned by purchasing X amount of trim and trusses from the lumber company, one we always looked forward to each year. And Hawaii??? Come on!!! Who'd want to miss that? Certainly not me! So, I watched and wept and watched and wept, my whole shirt totally soaked with tears. It was such a good movie, with a happy ending. I can't give it away though, you must watch and then imagine the heartache experienced....like biting on a sore tooth. You just can't not bite on that tooth!

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I'll be awaiting your reviews and comments, even if you didn't get to watch it yet. I have to go check Jami's list of favorites to see if we shared this favorite movie!!!!

Joanne would have loved this!

As I am "perched" here in my window, a substantial osprey just soared past with a big fish in its talons. Lunch! Well, it is nearly noon here! How amazing it is that today the river is quiet and flat, no wind, when yesterday the waves were washing over the break water and the palms bending from the high winds. It is not grey at all, with the water and sky being blue and the trees green, and the birds, well, they are actually grey with some white detailing. A gorgeous heron has landed on the rocks and seems to be looking for some fish as well.

I've heard just about enough speeches already this morning and am now back to the radio, waiting to hear how the markets will react to the decision of the government regarding my financial future. Oh, wait, everyone's financial future. The advisors insist it is not time to go cash out and stuff the mattress but I'll tell you what, it sure is tempting to do something proactively in case the whole world crashes down around us.....

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Justin and I had a lengthy conversation yesterday regarding his schooling and hopes for travel next spring. A couple lady friends had wanted to go with me but now it seems less and less likely they'll scrape the cash together in time, if at all, for a Mediterranean trip. Justin and I have been discussing going to Florence for some time now, Justin going so far as to find me a furnished flat near the Ponte Vecchio bridge. He said, "You can send for me, and I'll come help you decorate." The key word there was "furnished", right? Rats! I'd still "send for him" of course, as it's important to his studies.

This is a picture of the Baptistry doors in Florence which Justin is currently studying in Art History class. These doors, bronzed, tell Bible stories through ornate carvings, relief. and sculpting. Photos do no justice to their beauty and detail. We both regret missing so much stuff in Florence due in part to insufficient information and because of the search for the Murano glass store to buy my chandelier which I'd spotted the year before. When I was ready to give up, he pressed on to find the shop.

Justin is considering changing his major to English and minoring in Art History since his advisor at school told him it might be a good idea. It seems their budget for art and music was so dramatically cut that he's going to have problems finding just the right classes to meet his major at UNF. Another option would be to transfer to another college, but for right now, I certainly have no problem with him changing to English. Not too long ago he mocked me for being "such an English person" because of my punctuation books on the dresser! Now he might be one, too! Justin has writing skills--in fact, a few years ago when I read an essay written by Justin to Pete and Tarren, they both said, "He sounds like you!". Cool, I think!

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Of course, my true preference to go and live for any length of time is Greece but for Justin's purposes, the art and history portion, Italy is where he needs to be. At least right now. They are studying some of the things we've seen there and such, which makes his longing that much more powerful. I think I'd find more suitable foods in Italy anyway, since I can't quite wrap my head around eating fish and vegetables the way they do on the Greek Islands.

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When we were talking yesterday and I mentioned my passing thoughts on cashing out and taking leave (of my senses???), he asked if I was going to "pull a Francis"--meaning Francis Mayes, who wrote and lives "Under the Tuscan Sun". The first time we rented it, about 4 years ago, I read aloud the blurb on the back of the DVD: "a recently divorced author with writer's block takes a vacation in Tuscany and buys a villa..." He didn't want me to rent it, being a bit nervous, but I calmed him with, "I don't have writer's block!!" We both think we'd like for me to live far away, in fact, I accused him of trying to get rid of me, but I sure would miss everybody big time! It's hard enough getting people to come visit me in Florida, much less in Florence!!!

Tips for a better life, some secular, some Scriptural

Judy R.!!!! So many of these things make me think of you!!!!!

1. Take a 10-30 minute walk every day. And while you walk, smile. It is the ultimate anti-depressant.
2. Sit in silence for at least 10 minutes each day.
3. Buy a DVR and record your late night shows and get more sleep.
4. When you wake up in the morning complete the following statement, 'My purpose is to __________ today.'
5. Live with the 3 E's -- Energy, Enthusiasm, and Empathy.
6. Play more games and read more books than you did in 2007.
7. Make time to study God's Word and pray. They provide us with daily fuel for our busy lives.
8. Spend time with people over the age of 70 and under the age of 6.
9. Dream more while you are awake.
10. Eat more foods that grow on trees and plants and eat less food that is manufactured in plants.
11. Drink green tea and plenty of water. Eat blueberries, wild Alaskan salmon, broccoli, almonds & walnuts.
12. Try to make at least three people smile each day.
13. Clear clutter from your house, your car, your desk and let new and flowing energy into your life.
14. Don't waste your precious energy on gossip, OR issues of the past, negative thoughts or things you cannot control. Instead invest your energy in the positive present moment.
15. Realize that life is a school and you are here to learn. Problems are simply part of the curriculum that appear and fade away like algebra class but the lessons you learn will last a lifetime.
16. Eat breakfast like a king, lunch like a prince and dinner like a college kid with a maxed out charge card.
17. Smile and laugh more. It will keep the NEGATIVE BLUES away.
18. Life isn't fair, bu t it's still good.
19. Life is too short to waste time hating anyone.
20. Don't take yourself so seriously. No one else does.
21. You don't have to win every argument. Agree to disagree.
22. Make peace with your past so it won't spoil the present.
23. Don't compare your life to others'. You have no idea what their journey is all about.
24. No one is in charge of your happiness except you.
25.Frame every so-called disaster with these words: 'In five years, will this matter?'
26. Forgive everyone for everything.
27. What other people think of you is none of your business
28. REMEMBER GOD heals everything. He, as Christ, paid it all.
29. However good or bad a situation is, it will change.
30. Your job won't take care of you when you are sick. Your friends will. Stay in touch.
31. Get rid of any thing that isn't useful, beautiful or joyful.
32. Envy is a waste of time. You already have all you need.
33. The best is yet to come.
34. No matter how you feel, get up, dress up and show up.
35.Do the right thing!
36. Call your family often. (Or email them to death!!!)
37. Each night before you go to bed complete the following statements: 'I am thankful for __________. Today I accomplished _________. '
38. Remember that you are too blessed to be stressed.
39. Enjoy the ride. Remember this is not Disney World and you certainly don't want a fast pass. You only have one ride through life so make the most of it and enjoy the ride.

A very busy week for me

Again the sun is playing games with me, poking out from behind grey clouds. In fact, everything looks grey from a distance--the water, sky, clouds, horizon. Only the palms up close are in color which would make for a great painting, but I don't have time for that right now. I need to paint with words as I have two newsletters due out by the end of the week. Yikes!

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I've already been busy around here, getting things in order for the housekeepers to come and do their thing. The sheets and towels which were in place for leaks are swishing around in the washer right now while the dryer tumbles some of my traveling clothes. It seems more clothes than I actually took, which is true by one pair of jeans and a top. I had to wash my new top already since I wore it for the flight home, and dripped mayo on it while enjoying a hot dog at the airport.

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On the Chicken Noodle Network (CNN), according to Neal, a poll shows one party is blamed two to one for the financial problems being addressed these days. The records actually show that one certain party in Congress has repeatedly voted down reforms which would have prevented this debacle, in part because of the demands for more affordable housing and low-income mortgages being made available. But, no one is really interested in the facts when it comes to pocketbook issues. It will be interesting to see what comes from the big meeting taking place at this writing between Bernanke, Paulson, and the GOP leadership regarding the bail-out. Ugh, I hate this mess!

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The sun is warming my arms when it peeks out and I am tempted to close my doors, which just happened to be open all night long, because the breeze is cool on my feet. I could possibly put my slippers on and keep the door open so it's cool for the cleaners. The dredgers are still at it in the basin area outside my windows and I can't help but wonder what is taking them so long to get their job accomplished. One of my neighbors was out there in his boat and taking measurements, as he has an interest in getting this marina in place ASAP. He reports little progress after all these months.

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Oh, no, I guess I'll have to go live in a home........I did something stupid! I just went to check on my sliding doors, which, as I mentioned earlier, had been open since yesterday late afternoon. The screen doors were not closed all this while, which means I could have had birds and other wildlife taking up residence in my home right under my nose. How in the world did I not notice they were opened?????

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Just when you think it can't get any weirder in this world, you (I) read an article on Drudge about PETA urging Ben and Jerry's Ice Cream be made using breast milk instead of cow's milk........I'm rushing right out now to buy some B & J's Ice Cream. NOT!!! While they purport to be advocates for the family farm, now they are being asked to by-pass the cow's milk for human breast milk. I wonder how often the nursing mothers will have to line up to be milked like cows do? What next? Those two loons are goofy enough anyway, they might just do it!

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Well, now the sun is completely disappeared so my arms are no longer being warmed. A Fish and Game boat just successfully scooted through an area normally closed by sand, but since the river is quite high and not a little bit wild, the boat was able to get through. It looks like it did during the tropical storm in August except it isn't raining at all--yet. Last night at Bible study, I received a lovely book mark from Leanne, who is currently president of my fan club, it seems. She'd watched the funeral video with me a couple weeks ago and remembered the comment I'd made regarding Pastor Prange's use of the verse from Psalm 46 where God tells us to just "be quiet", "I have everything under control". She went in search of this passage on a book mark and found one. "Be still, and know that I am God."

More rooster humor

Yes, I am up to my old, nasty habits of watching afternoon TV! My radio programs are done for the day so I am "entitled" to some down time. Down time from down time, imagine that!

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Other than getting used to the time difference again, I am attempting to re-familiarize myself with some of the items in my house, including the TV remote control and my own computer keyboard. The buttons are not located in the same places on either my desk top computer or on this laptop as they were on my mom's, so I keep moving things which don't need moving or putting funky symbols where I meant to put numerals. The same with changing the channels on the TV---instead of turning up the volume, I am fast forwarding through my recorded programs. Mom's remote controls are different than mine, which I learned to use without looking.

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I did manage to find a recorded episode of "Seinfeld" which I'd not seen before, "The Statue". Kramer pretends to be a cop in order to steal back a statue assumed to have been stolen from Jerry's apartment by the housekeeper. It was so funny. Now there's an episode called "Little Jerry" where Kramer has purchased a so-called chicken in order to get fresh eggs. It crows at sun up which disturbs Jerry's sleep, and Jerry has to break it to Kramer that Little Jerry is not a hen but instead, a rooster! "That might explain the low egg production." Little Jerry is now going to be in cock fight at the store where Jerry's bad check is posted, and if Little Jerry takes a dive, the bad check will no longer be posted on the cash register. Jerry helps Kramer "train" the rooster so his check will be taken down. His parents heard about the bad check being posted and are insisting on sending him money, begging him to go into advertising and give up on comedy! He is screaming at them to not send money but his mom laid the phone down and can't hear him yelling. George walked into the apartment and hears the screaming, and asks, "How's the parents?" and Jerry calmly replies, "Oh, they're good", as if nothing was happening. So, so funny!!! Gotta love those rooster stories!

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Today I have my doors opened and the wind is blowing through. It sounds like a tropical storm out there, the way the trees sound. The sky is still cloudy but not overcast at all. It's a decent temperature now, too, cool, but not long pants weather. Tomorrow is expected to be in the low 80's which might not exactly be pool weather but could easily be warm enough to sit pool side! Our low temp tonight is predicted to be 66 which is chilly by our standards. Our temps are showing to be lower than average, with rip tides and rough surf taking place for some reason. Some sort of frontal system moving through, I guess.

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My neck is itching me from my haircut earlier. I should have changed shirts right away but it didn't seem to bother me at first. After the beauty shop I stopped at the bank, McDonald's, and then Great Hang Ups. As I walked in the door, Julia told me the radio was playing "In the Arms of the Angels" and said my timing was perfect. They didn't realize how long I'd be away, even though they knew. Somehow saying two weeks and experiencing two weeks are quite different. We had a great catch-up visit and Dee told me to get out to the Thrasher-Horne to see the Art Guild display, to see my picture in the show. I'll have to see what Martie can arrange, because she wants to go, too. Perhaps Thursday will work for her, since she's off work, I think. I'll take a picture of my picture so I can post it on the blogsite. It's not been inside my home since I painted it, since it went right to Island Realty for display after I had it framed. It's wonderful to go to Hang Ups and have my spirit renewed, built up, as it were.

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Oh, goody! It's going to get back up to 87 by the weekend! Life is good!

Presently there's a lake wind advisory and surf cautions in place at the beaches. The winds are at 25-30 miles per hour. I wonder what's causing this, other than the front moving through. Or is that enough? Maybe it's time to figure out the remote control and change the channel?????!!!!!!

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On the 19th I'm invited to an Open House given by Julia and another artist, Donna Grasso, at Donna's home. It works out that the Jags are on a Bye Week that day, so yes, I accept! Julia is going to show her ceramics alongside Donna's paintings, and should be a fun time! I really miss my friend, Joanne, who's been out of town tending to her father for many months. When I last spoke with her, she thought she'd be coming back this month, but nothing yet. I'll give her a call later to see what the plans are. I'd offered my spare room to her since she had to move from her rental home before it was foreclosed upon, but she's made other housing arrangments already. She's lived with me on several occasions in the past and knows my door is always open in case she needs a port in a storm. Joanne has lots of storms, and it sounds like I need to change this channel, too!

Catching up...

....on some things left unsaid. Really? She left something unsaid???

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Jill told me the other day that the lady whose photo I'd taken at the ice cream parlor, posing with the garishly dressed giant cow, came back to ask Jill if her sister was still in town because she'd hoped to return the favor by taking my picture before the cow was "undressed" again. Jill was surprised, but shouldn't have been, that this lady came in asking for me! I tell everybody I see in Manty about Jill being the manager of the ice cream parlor by the big cow, so it's no wonder this lady knew to come back there.

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I've gotten a number of e-mails from friends welcoming me back home again. One in particular arrived this morning from Leanne: "...YOU'RE HOME!!! I HAVE MISSED YOU BIG TIME. I HAVE CANDY CORN FOR YOU. IT REMINDS ME OF YOU EVERY TIME I SEE IT. I'LL BRING IT Sunday. I CAN'T WAIT TO HUG YOU. LOVE YA" It's great to be home again! We will see each other at Bible study tonight, "Angels and Demons" as our subject matter. I missed on Sunday and we cover the same material during the week in the evening for those who aren't able to make study on Sundays. What could be more perfect?

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Rosalie and her Internet is up and running again, so things have somewhat returned to normal for her in Houston. Thank the good Lord for sparing my friends from tragedy! The President is going to speaking at the UN at 10:30 but I'll be in the beauty shop when he does so. I can catch it on the computer or a replay later today. At this moment Neal Boortz is interviewing Sen. McCain on his radio program, and before he's letting him go, Neal is asking him about supporting the Fair Tax. Neal just asked him to do lunch after he's sworn in so they can go over the Fair Tax and get it into place....oh, that Neal, like he'd be invited to lunch at the White House. Yes, he's been to lunch and meetings at the White House during this present administration! He thinks he has a standing invite now!

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Time to dress for the day. The sun is playing peek-a-boo with me but I did wake to a clear sky and bright sunlight. During the night there was heavy rain because I woke enough to hear it. I think I heard dripping in some part of my house but wasn't interested in going to check on it. My towels and sheets are still in place so it's okay to let it rain. I should write a song called "Let It Rain".....oh, wait, someone already did!

Muggy takes on a whole new meaning

I am sitting here in my happy place! Hey, it's great to be back home again after two weeks in WI. And I am weary as can be! It feels so wonderful to be sitting here in my family room on my love seat with my feet up. Ah....The room is a bit of a mess as it's still in prep mode in case a storm came our way while I was gone. The house keepers are due on Wednesday so I'll have things put to right again before they come.

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On the downside, I have the sniffles and am looking forward to a good night's sleep in my own bed tonight. I did sleep some last night in the hotel but not soundly at all, having to get up every now and again to go potty. I must have had six or more sodas at dinner (Luigi's with the Hackmann families). There was no noise from the airport, and I mention this because Lynn wondered if it would be noisy from the planes, being that close to the airport. Not one bit, but, of course, we have the TV on all night long. The Packer game was a huge disappointment and we decided to just roll over and go to sleep rather than watch the humiliation on the field.

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Okay, so let's recap: I wrote briefly about the surprise party for Lynn on Saturday. Most never even knew about it because I didn't dare write anything in my blog about it since Lynn is one of my regular readers (thanks, Lynn!). There were leftovers from the food, needless to say, so it was taken back to Mom's where it was divided between the girls who could put it to use. Mom will eat good off some of the food, too, which is good to know.

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Sunday we went to church where the order of service was the Morning Praise, our favorite. It's not the one from the hymnal, it's original to First German, and includes several we've sung at Good Shepherd. One was a song I've sung as cantor at G. S. and another a te deum that simply lightens my spirit. "You are God, we praise you; you are Lord, we acclaim you..." Thanks to Pete for introducing me (us) at G. S. to these hymns of praise! "Oh, God, you are my God for you I long..."

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After worship Mom, Lynn, Alayna and I went to Bible study while Justin and Kerry went back home, Justin under the guise of packing...this didn't occur but he did get to hang out with his auntie for a bit without other peoples around, which is great. A bunch of us went to breakfast after study, but Kerry headed back to Oshkosh instead of coming with us. Jill and Danny came, too, after she opened up the ice cream parlor for the day. I had the most delicious pot roast dinner with peas mixed in with the meat and a side of corn plus a baked potato. Usually I have the potato pancakes at Perkins but I had them twice this visit so opted to have lunch instead of breakfast. I saw several people there I'd gone to high school and/or grade school, including the fella who'd come down to our church to help us figure out if we're ready for an elementary school or not.

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Lori and David were also there with his mom and step-dad so we got to say "hi" to them once more before they headed off to Kewaunee to get an antique table from her sister-in-law and then they were going to the Packer game. David's boss gave him the tickets so they couldn't refuse! It's too bad the game didn't go well but just being at Lambeau Field was a real hoot for them, to be sure. Their son, Dusty, didn't make it to Lynn's party because he was working so, sadly, I didn't get to see him at all this visit. I will at Christmas time when we're back up there....Man, we just got home and already planning a return trip!

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Our travel today was a mess but manageable. We'd stayed at a hotel in order to get some sleep and avoid driving like a couple nuts from Manty to MKE, particularly after staying up "late" to watch the game. The hotel was near the airport so in only moments were had the rental car returned. Bravo to Justin for suggesting curbside check-in rather than standing in the long lines indoors. As far as I know, I wasn't charged anything extra for having my luggage over weight, which I am absolutely certain it was! Without further ado, we found our cheese curds for our friends and Justin's father, and through security lickety split.

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Once we boarded, seated separately due to having a full plane, we took off for Memphis. No sooner did we get air underneath us than the smoke alarms were going off in all the bathrooms. I could tell we were "slowing down" especially after hearing the gear drop and the flaps were down. Sure 'nuff, we had to return to the terminal, only to be met by assorted fire fighting equipment. I was not scared at all, since it was obvious we were not ablaze. Justin was near the flight attendant's seat and had the inside info as to what the problem was. Evidently a new A/C system had been installed and perhaps shorted out or something. All the passengers had to "de-plane" and get re-booked on different flights. Justin and I ended up going home much later than 6:22 a.m.! First, we flew to Minneapolis on the 9:10 flight and then to Jacksonville, getting back to Florida by 5:00 pm. He'd wanted to take his friend to a job fair at UNF but that plan was scuttled by the delays.

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Other than that little glitch, nothing else was missed other than an afternoon poolside! Oh, wait, it's overcast, drizzling, and humid as can be! You can cut it with a knife..........is that original or what???

We did it! We pulled off the surprise!!!

No one blabbed, no one let it slip---amazing! Our family successfully pulled off a surprise birthday party for my sister, Lynn, who turned 60 last Monday. She never even guessed or was suspicious that all (almost all...) my sisters were in town, not to mention Justin coming up for no other reason than to visit with me! We did it! Of course she wept a bit, some of us helped her cry, because she was so blown away. Lori gets the credit of putting it together, not without a few bugs, because she lives across the state and was not around ahead of time to manage things. Other than a few communication glitches (always a problem!), Lynn was surprised by a roomful of family, friends, and church family wishing her well on her big 6-0 birthday!

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Her gifts included gift cards to various places around town, many of her favorites, plus a printer so she can print her photos. Tommy and Linda got her a toot-toot horn for her bike, plus reflector lights and headlight so she can ride safely at night. Lisa's boys made Grandma Lynn molds of their hands and feet, a true treasure! We got to see our aunty and cousins, and some of the attendees were able to make use of the swimming pool, including Lori, who opted to jump in, clothing and all. David made us all laugh by speculating whether or not she had a "back-up" bra along or not. Oh, that guy, he's always good for a chuckle!

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After the party, some of us adjourned to Mom's to play a game of Apples to Apples, including my auntie, Marie, who is in her high 80's. She's a real good sport. My cousin, Barb, was here, too, which it all the more fun. After folks had headed for home, Justin and Alayna made a quick trip over to the Green Street to get some good WI perch and cheese curds, because Justin didn't want to eat the same thing he had for lunch. Is he spoiled or what????

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Now the house has quieted and I am feeling ready for sleep, too. We are going to early church in the morning and then to Bible study afterward. Justin and I will pack our stuff before heading over to see Arno and the rest of the Hackmann's. We might have a quick dinner with Nancy and the kids before we drive down to Milwaukee to our hotel and to watch the Packer game. I'd rather drive down the night before than break our necks in the morning, wee hours of the a.m., before catching our flight. The hotel cost is about half the cost of changing one of the tickets so it's worth it to me. And a good night's sleep? Priceless!!!!!

Good news! The sun is out and it's getting warmer!

...and all is right with the world! Wow, something must have happened to me if I am considering 71 degrees above zero to be "warm"! It's a far cry from the dreary, rainy weather this past weekend, residual effects of Hurricane Ike.

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Speaking of Ike, Monday I got a phone call from Rosalie, my friend in Houston, and she gave me the brief rundown of their situation. The worst of it right now is being without electricity and as far as damages go, part of their "old" fence came down, so no major losses. Once the power comes back, she'll be good to go again.

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My luncheon with Linda and Joanie yesterday was wonderful, and typical, with the occasional tears running down our faces mixed with heavy doses of laughter. And, of course, the food was great, such good onion rings! Both ladies had appointments so they went their ways and I came back to Mom's.

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Later in the afternoon, Linda came back here to watch "The Bucket List" with Mom and me. Nearly 3/4 of the way through Alayna popped in and watched the end with us. I guess Tuesday was a good crying day because all of us were weeping when it ended. Lynn arrived just as we finished watching and was glad to have missed it. She rode her bike down to Mom's so had to go home on the bike and I picked her up as we drove to Covered Wagon for supper. Mom opted to stay home and have a cookie and milk instead of going with us. We brought a piece of pumpkin pie back for her, as requested. She had thought about going to a Visitation Committee meeting but since Alayna borrowed the car, she had no ride. Instead of asking others for a lift and not being all that excited about venturing out Mom opted to stay in.

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After dinner, Lynn and I went shopping at Shopko. We each came away with a couple of clothing items, Lynn's being dramatically discounted. My cousin, Cheryl, works in the optical department so we had a nice chat with her before checking out. By 8:00 pm I'd dropped Lynn off at home and was back at Mom's. I was so weary, mostly my eyes, probably from all the weeping, so went to my room about 9:00 pm. I talked on the phone with my sister-in-law for a bit, making plans to meet for breakfast in Valders, where she lives.

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I got settled in for the night, finding "Seinfeld" on at the odd time of 10:00 pm. I always forget to take the time change into account here, being an hour earlier than in Florida. The episode was the famous Kenny Roger's Roasters one, we'd just spoken about it Sunday when at breakfast with Jachimstal's. Matt is a fan of the program and he referenced "Roasters" as being a favorite. I had to laugh once more when Kramer excitedly told Jerry about his rods and cones being out of whack! Love that! He poured tomato juice on his corn flakes because he couldn't tell it was red. I fell asleep before the next episode began so don't know what I missed!

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This a.m. Justin called between job sites and we had a nice chat. I had checked with the airlines about perhaps changing our departure time on Monday, since he dropped his class that day. It proved to be too expensive, $180 per ticket plus any fare changes, so we've opted to stay overnight in a hotel in MKE the night before in order to catch our flight on Monday. When he left here after his grandma's funeral, his ride was late in arriving and he barely made it to his gate in MKE, and then discovered there was a delay of some kind, requiring him to make other travel arrangements. He absolutely hated all that stress of getting there in time, and then to have the mess at the airport.......We'll handle it our way this go-round and not allow for any drama.

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I've heard from a couple people from church and the condo since I've been away, which is heart warming. Martie called this a.m. so we chatted awhile before I left to have breakfast with Nancy. We are going to take an art class together in October and get back on track with our painting. Her work schedule has changed so our usual day together is not going to cut it right now. She's involved in a Bible study at her church about the Psalms, which sounds quite interesting. I hate missing the Bible studies at my church, but go with Mom, Lynn, Alayna, and Linda on Sundays.

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I got to see Nancy's home in Valders before we had breakfast next door at The Diner. Yup, that's the name of it! She's going through some stuff right now so this was good for her to have an ear and to receive some counsel, whether wanted or not! After leaving Nancy, I went to the local lumber yard to see some friends of mine, one of whom was our partner in Florida when we first moved down there. Nancy's cousin works in the office there too so it was old home week for me. The owners of the yard are regulars at the Green Street so I see them often, at least when I'm up here and at Green Street! Justin wants to go to Green Street on Friday when he gets here so I'll probably see them once more before we leave!

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Off to have an early dinner with my friend, Dolly, who is coming to Manty to see her chiropractor. It couldn't have worked out any better for us for getting together. I am looking forward to some more perch and eagerly looking forward to spending time with my friend, Dolly!

"I've been sitting up waitin' for my sugar to show...."

...not that I'd refer to John and Mona my "sugar" but we are sitting here waiting for them to get back from New York. Allie, too, of course. I hope she had a marvelous time in "the city", at the Ball, and at West Point with her brother. Unfortunately they didn't get to see any of the commemoration events on 9-11 due to their commute from Newburg where the hotel was located. Too bad about that, but at least they had lovely weather.

*

This morning Nancy brought Arno down to First German while I collected Sharon from her place to attend the funeral service of a cousin of my mother-in-law's, Milda. She was 93 years old and still looked beautiful. My mom walked to church from her house and sat with us. She said that no matter what, when she'd call on Milda in the hospital or in the nursing home, she always had every hair in place and a smile on her face. It was difficult for Arno since so many folks knew him but he couldn't see their faces well enough nor was it conducive to loud discussions about who's who when in the church. If we'd stayed for the luncheon, he might have had more opportunity to greet and remember people but he was afraid about down going the stairs to the Heritage Hall for the fellowship following the committal service.

*

Mom has told me how wonderful the Pastor's funeral sermons are and I got to hear for myself today. Mom and I separately told Pastor Hahm how much the sermons mean and he told Mom, "I'd better go and polish it up a bit!" We sang hymns we loved, especially one I've chosen for my own funeral, "For All the Saints". Beautiful and full of meaning. The daughter of the deceased greeted me as we came through the line of mourners, remembering who I was (am) and about my little boy who died. Wow, I was impressed by her remembering this, as evidently her mom must have spoken of it or something. The daughter looked familiar to me but was not someone who'd I'd expect to know about Timmy or me. Nice.

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I also got to talk with the morticians, a father/son team who took care of my mother-in-law's funeral arrangements last year, plus I've known the father all my life. Dennis made beautiful bookmarks for us after Timmy died and sent us a thoughtful card. His son, Andrew, remembered me from Lucile's funeral and greeted me with a hug when we met in the hall at church. He barely looks old enough to drive and yet he's a mortician, go figure! His dad stands 9 feet tall and has to lean way over to hug me, but did so anyway, saying, "It's great to see you, Little Lady!" When Mom arrived at the church, he said, "Kim's in there already." Don't you love it?

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My friend and former classmate (actually 2 years ahead of me), Joanie, was just coming out from the church and was quite shaken up after greeting the mourners. She'd recently lost her own mom plus attended other similar funerals at this church this year. Linda J., Joanie, and I are going to lunch on Tuesday so we can chat under different circumstances. Linda has an appointment in T'rivers in the afternoon so we're meeting half way in between at The Oar House. Doesn't that sound yummy?

*

Nancy and I took our charges to the Four Seasons Restaurant for lunch. No steps and brightly lit, making it easier for Arno to see and navigate. Sharon, Arno and I enjoyed our perch sandwiches while Nancy slobbered her way through a gyro. She wishes she'd had the perch instead as her sandwich wasn't quite what she thought it would be. Both Arno and Sharon cleaned their plates, with Sharon eating not only her food, but half of mine as well. Since she can't see at all, I had put my fries on her plate, telling her I was doing it, and she ate them all. Arno ate his own meal plus some applesauce and three people's tomatoes. He was the designated tomato eater. The perch came on hard rolls and were so delicious, almost makes me want to go back and have another one tomorrow! We came back to Arno's afterward and just sat around chatting all afternoon. Sharon rarely gets to visit at her former home so it was nice to have her here with her Dad for a while. I took her back to Hanna Home after dinner time so she'll have a snack before going to bed, to make up for the missed meal. Her tummy was still full from all that lunch!

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This morning I woke early and then went back to sleep again. If you are like me, that's when the most crazy dreaming takes place. Sometimes those dreams will stick with me all day long, making me wonder if indeed it was only a dream. My dream today was something I've lived through once already and waking up didn't it stop then, and it's hard to shake now. It must be from watching all those programs on the Lifetime channel at Mom's. Justin doesn't like for me to watch that channel because much of the subject matter is, shall we say?, too real. Those dreams make me wonder if I should let myself fall back to sleep when I awaken so early or if I should just take my chances on the subject matter I'll dream about....

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"I'm just sittin' here waiting for my sugar to show, listening to the sirens and the radio. Said he'd be here over three hours ago, waiting for his car, climbing, climbing the hill...." "It always seems so righteous at the start, when there's so much laughter, when there's so much spark, when there's so much sweetness in the dark...waiting for his car, climbing, climbing the hill...." Joni Mitchell--Court and Spark album