Here I am again!

This is Manny sporting his fireman's outfit that Justin and I gave him for CHRISTmas. It was actually purchased for Timmy's 5th birthday in 2001 but he was never to receive this gift. Now Manny has it and is really enjoying playing with it. Gabe got the little dart board that was also Timmy's for his birthday. I hope he likes it as much as Manny likes playing fireman!

Back at the computer, this evening feeling even better than the last time I posted. Still bearing a scratchy-sounding throat and unable to hit the high notes, I feel substantially better than I did a week ago, to be sure! I still do not feel like staying up all night, love going to bed early and having a good night’s rest. But, my appetite is returned to normal and again I enjoy the things that I missed when sick. We are yet munching on the CHRISTmas ham I bought, very yummy sandwiches on fresh rolls, the best! Mom keeps mentioning all the food in the fridge to be eaten but it seems we barely make a dent in the leftovers at all.

Part of the reason I feel better is that the Packers handily defeated the Giants today, but sadly, the Jaguars lost to Washington, once more a game going into overtime. Justin was at the game and was freezing nearly to pieces, not sporting his cold weather gear. He had asked me last night via text message where the cold weather gear was at home but then later told me he was getting a hat and gloves at the game, as the Jags were selling out their inventory. Somehow that didn’t work out for him and he told me more than once how miserable the four of them were, huddling together to keep warm.

This a.m. we worshipped at Lisa’s church in Sheboygan, where we celebrated the rite of reaffirmation of Angelo’s baptism. The pastor, whose name is also Kuske, informed the congregation that he had baptized Angelo in the hospital before he was transported to Green Bay right after he was born. And then described Angelo as being a ‘chubby little thing’, accurately so. The baptismal sponsors are friends of theirs from church, the Butler’s, who were joined at the font by Gabe, Manny, Lisa, and Noah. Pastor reminded us of the value of our baptisms, especially today for Angelo’s reaffirmation, it was ours as well. Holy Innocents Sunday, a perfect day for such an event!

We had about a dozen family members in church, including Lori, David and Dustin, who would head for home right after our lunch. I rode with Alayna to Sheboygan and Lynn took the rest in her car. It made me nervous that Alayna was so low on gas and I insisted she stop before we went to Harry’s Diner to put gas in. But, she refused to fill it up, even though I was buying! She just couldn’t do it! Our breakfast was wonderful, with the waitress being the same young lady who is Lisa’s fill-in at work while she is off on maternity leave. While we were eating, the Pastor,his wife and young son came in to eat, too. Unfortunately they did not arrive in time to join our circus, I mean, group.

Alayna took me to get some soda before we headed back to Mom’s house. She was going to her other grandma’s house this afternoon and watch football with them. Lynn was waiting upstairs for me and we watched another football game before the Packers started. My phone was busy with e-mails and updates from the game and other venues (love my new phone!) so it is presently on the charger, being renewed. I did some laundry this early evening but we only had enough quarters for a single load, washed and dried. Tomorrow we can go to the credit union and get some more quarters, plus pick up a scrip for Mom at Wal*Mart. Kohl’s is having a nice sale, too, which we might take advantage of, since we will be out in the a.m. Lynn is taking her car in for service so Mom and I will pick her up at the dealership, go and have breakfast, and then do some shopping. Perfect!

On the way to church this a.m. my friend, Joanne, called me, all excited. It was snowing “to beat the band” in Jacksonville as she was driving to church. She said the wind was about 35 mph so the snow was coming in sideways. Certainly snow would throw Jacksonville into a tail spin since no one knows how to drive in it, but the snow did not stick. It was still fun to talk about though, while it lasted!

Where have I been? Where am I now?

Here is my mom holding Angelo on Thursday afternoon

It has been several days since I last posted, due mostly to the fact that I was traveling to WI and not feeling very well. Today, the morn of CHRISTmas Eve, I find myself awake and have already showered, although it is not yet 6:00 a.m. CST. Kerry arrived at Mom’s last evening while most of us were at the MLHS CHRISTmas concert at the Capital Civic Center. She chooses to sleep in the family room on the love seat rather than on the trundle in the guest room because of her unusual sleep patterns, but this a.m. it is mine which are unusual. Of course, having this ‘junk’ has changed everything so the word ‘usual’ does not apply any longer.

My travels were uneventful on Sunday and once ensconced in Mom’s family room, I was glad I made the trip. The entire next day, however, was a total loss, as my arms and legs were aching so badly, as if I walked from Jacksonville to Manitowoc, carrying my luggage.

Most of the day Monday I lounged on the love seat, leaving home late afternoon with Lynn and Mom, venturing to Festival Foods after Mom’s doctor appointment. A nice manager-man helped me find the hair color aisle, after I explained it was an emergency---we had a good chuckle with that one. He knew where the men’s products were and told me which color he liked for himself! The shopping did me in and I was exhausted at the store. Mom could have shopped for another hour, loves that grocery store!

Lynn knew where the cart was in the kitchen of the apartment complex which was handy for off-loading our store purchases once home again. All our groceries were hauled up in one fell swoop. She is the best, that’s all there is to it!

Since I have been off my feed with this malady, nothing really tasted good or even looked good, but at Festival, I bought a container of sloppy joes for our dinner that night. It was good! Lynn bought fresh rolls to serve them on and it made for our good, light fare. It took me until Wednesday to have a perch sandwich, which proves I was not feeling well!

Mom and I went out a couple times, picking up scrips at Wal*Mart plus a few more presents not yet gotten. Copps got me the delicious sugar cookies I love so well, but sadly, I did see my friend, Susie, who was celebrating her birthday that day. Would have loved to surprise her! Tuesday Mom and I went to church and helped Linda put the newsletter together, just the three of us, and had nice chats with the pastors. Later we went for lunch, Lynn joining us after work, at the Charcoal Grille. Love their onion straws!

Yesterday I got to see Angelo and hold him for awhile. The whole family came up to Mom’s after the boys were done with school. They had picked up pizzas at Papa Murphy’s for our lunch, and even Alayna came over, sharing the baby feeding and holding task with me. She is a natural with him! Lisa’s boys are so adorable (spoken like a true, unbiased auntie!). Noah and the 3 kids went home when we ladies went to the concert, having come in two cars. Lisa could shop then afterward with no prying eyes with her. The photos taken yesterday will have to be posted another time since I have no way to transfer them to this computer. Nuts!

One amusing comment was made yesterday which made us think of Pete and Tarren---Alayna noted how hairy little Angelo is, and Lisa said he is hairy like Gabe was when he was born. The good news is that Gabe has since shed his sideburns! 8 years old and finally without sideburns! But his two-month old baby brother sports them instead!

Well, I am up and typing

Having slept almost all night, getting up once for the midnight run due to that water drinking, I am up at 6:30. When I cough, it is a good, hard productive cough but right now, it is quiet. Of course, when I take the medicine, the cough loosens up and we are in business. Yesterday I felt so awful, more weary and lethargic than anything, and just decided to change my travel plans to Tuesday, allowing me the extra time here to rest and get over this. Before making the change, I called Lynn to let her know my thoughts. This change in my arrival would free her to attend the boy's CHRISTmas program at their school tonight instead of driving to the airport to fetch me.

*

After I hung up with Lynn, I called Travelocity, knowing there would be a transfer fee and possibly have to pay the difference between the two tickets. Earlier I had found a decent fare with about the same arrival time in MKE to make it easy for Lynn, and it seemed to be less money than what I paid in the first place. "Seemed" being the key word here. A nice Pakistani boy named Alan was helping me and said the cost would be $175, which is tolerable for allowing me an extra two days in my bed. But, as he tried to secure the reservation, he could not proceed because the fare had change in price. The total change would now cost almost double of what he told me. Even though I was sick, I said, "No, thank you" and hung up. Then I called Lynn back and told her I had not changed my plans but would schedule a ride home on the airport shuttle, after assuring her it was fine, just fine for me to do that. At first mom was sad, according to reports, but then returned to glad, hearing that my plans would remain intact.

*

Some of my Facebook and real life friends offered advice about 'the junk' including taking Emergencee, drinking juice, chicken broth, water, and Judy R. said to get up and sit in the chair instead of lying in bed for the rest. I took the advice, and forced myself to get up, dressed, and went to CVS for a few things. I found Dayquil in tablet form to use on the plane, the Emergencee which is a powder, and Linda recommended lozenges with Vitamin C included, so bought those. Plus some fruit juice and diet orange soda with extra C added as Judy said caffeine does not help either. Really?

*

Once I was up and dressed, I did feel better and stayed up for nearly 4 hours, having to remake my bed after washing the sheets to freshen the bed. It will be nice for me when I get home, and really needing refreshing after my rotting in here for four days! I folded some of the laundry and put it away, and even weighed my luggage, putting the suitcase on the bathroom scale. It seems I have some margin for error of 10 pounds, or would that be 5 pounds, since it appeared to weigh about 40, with 50 being the magic number. Hopefully my luggage contains what I need to take along and that I won't have forgotten anything too important, thinking I have the presents and such all packed in. There is room in my carry-on if I must transfer items to it but hate to tote anything heavy in the terminal. I like to travel light, on foot. Ha, too late for that!!

*

Earlier in the day, my neighbor, Jeff, came by to be orientated on the kitchen and such, showing him where the cookware, utensils, dishes, silverware, etc. are located, as they are using my home for the holidays. Courtney and James are staying in my guest room, which Justin prepped for them, and I showed Jeff where everything is, in case they cannot figure it out. When he was here, I was yet in my nightie and caftan, looking awful. He had not read the e-mail I sent regarding my being ill, etc. I am going to leave the Clorox wipes out for their convenience and will certainly not be upset if they wipe everything down before using it!

*

A day ago I mentioned the CHRISTmas bags and such. Yesterday I got an e-mail from Janet asking me where the bags were and who was in charge of them. I replied that I yet had them but was doing the hand-off today, and I also replied that I had no idea who was 'in charge' of getting the bags reloaded. She had picked up extra candy and such to be put in the bags and told me she left it on the table in the kitchen with a note. Guess that means she is not in charge, and I am not in charge, and it seems, no one is in charge of them. Carol, who actually stopped by and got the bags from me later on, will get some folks to take care of it at church today. They were going out anyway so stopped and transferred them from my car to theirs, with me using my 'beeper' to let them in and out of my car from upstairs. Nice, check that off the list. All that leaves is Timmy's little tree....

Enough already

This junk I have, as diagnosed by the doctor yesterday, is wearing on me. I am incredibly tired and wish to do little but sleep. Thankfully little was required of me this past week as far as projects or the like. The majority of my shopping for Justin is done with Jessica picking up one last thing for me yesterday when she was out. Nice! Last night he called me to see how I was feeling and we mutually decided to delay our CHRISTmas present exchange until after I return in January, which works for me. Not sure I would have been able to do the wrapping and such to make things ready. This also means he will not stay the night here tonight but will come for me in the morning, load my suitcase and take me to church.

*

Right now, that whole idea is daunting to me....traveling, that is. A few moments ago I looked at airfares leaving on later dates and they are decent enough if I decide to change my plans. Otherwise, once I get to WI, I will simply sleep the days away and not be any fun at all for my family and friends. What to do? What to do? I just wish I knew what to do to help me feel stronger again. Last night Justin quizzed me about fruit juice and such, and I told him that I had some V8 Fusion and some old apple juice in the fridge. At his urging I drank the rest of the Fusion and will have some apple juice in a bit. I have been drinking water as much as possible when I am awake to keep things flowing, and have been successful with the flowing part...if you know what I mean!

*

Now you know I'm sick----I am watching a wonky Christmas movie on TV as I write this. Not normally a viewer of such fare, there is just simply nothing else to watch from my sick bed, at least, not until 6:00 pm tonight when the "House" marathon begins. Facebook is alive with reports of others suffering with this same malady or similar, including Anne H. from Victory. Oh, I hate leaving Rachel in the lurch for tomorrow, not being able to sing in the Advent Song Service. At least, I am guessing not, but that is just less than 24 away. I could feel better in a snap, right? I had one and a half slices of toast with peanut butter on it for breakfast, thinking that would build me up...just couldn't finish the last bit of it. The most I have eaten was a McDonald's hamburger purchased on the way home after the doctor's appointment. It went down nicely and easily which might be the way to go, but I sure don't want to go anywhere.

*

My original plan was to take the Christmas bags over to church for the ladies to assemble on Sunday. I have reconsidered that and will take it with me to Victory and do a hand-off there to Carol or someone else who will be part of the decorating etal. I wonder who is in charge of the chili supper, I have not heard a word about it since I wrote it in the newsletter. Tomorrow is a full day between the churches, the Advent Song Service at Victory, a congregational/voter's meeting at GS, and then the decorating/caroling/chili supper. Man, I hope someone is taking care of things....We have no Fellowship Elder so things happen by guess and by gosh sometimes. I do hope the folks who are at Victory from GS will make sure they get back over there for the meeting as important matters are being discussed and voted upon.

*

I will ask Justin to take Timmy's little evergreen tree to the cemetery for me and that way, I won't have to go outside at all today. I hate not getting over there myself (gulp!) but in this situation, it will have to do. I am ready to lie down again...now, where's that heat pad?

Still feeling poorly...

....but am just delighted that my upstairs neighbor, Jessica, just called, asking if I needed anything from the stores as she was going off shopping this late afternoon. She was going to either Target or Wal*Mart and knows my time is short before I have to leave for WI. Jessica offered to get me anything I needed, stocking-stuffers, whatever, because she knows I have been housebound. Isn't that nice? She also told me she is going to BabiesRUs tomorrow and will stop by Bed, Bath, and Beyond while she is over there to get what I wanted from that store for Justin. NICE!!! All my strength has been sapped, cannot even imagine at this moment pulling my suitcase out. Later I am making myself a cup of hot tea and adding the lemon, agava sweetener and some rum to it, my own version of a hot toddy. Jessica made me one back in October when I was sick and I sure slept well. She asked me if I had a lemon and I told her that I have a Real Lemon squeeze thingy, that I use in my water. That just won't do so she is going to bring a slice of a fresh lemon. Am I spoiled or what??

*

Our water was off much of the day, well, several hours today, as Gus was having his valve changed out. He was quite apprehensive yesterday when he came by to let me know, and I wonder how he did with that whole situation. Earlier, my doorbell rang and there stood Butch! He asked if he could come in to shut off the valve in my bathroom, the one that was replaced, so that no water would flow down into the Gus's pipes. Sure! I looked and felt like heck, so told Butch he should just let himself back in when he was ready to turn it back on. It was off much longer than the two hours expected, and he told me that the plumber had a problem with the existing valve...oh, no! The plumber had the brainstorm of doing an 'override' of the existing valve, putting a brand new one above the old one which they could not get to operate. Yikes! Butch wished me a merry CHRISTmas and I told him that I would like to give him a hug but would not because of my cold. I know Gus will sleep better knowing that is taken care of, at least one of them is taken care of....

*

As I was lying here, rotting in my bed for hours on end, I decided that perhaps I should see the doctor just to make sure I do not have strep throat or something other than a cold. It would make for a wretched trip to WI, and certainly many fellow travelers would give me hateful looks for hacking and coughing in their vicinity. Today is a day the doctors keep later hours but still I have to wait until tomorrow to see Betsy. She is going to be so sick (ha, ha, ha!) of seeing me, twice this month already. I only go to the doctor when I absolutely have to, for prescription refills or athlete's foot, and now this back-to-back visit. Ugh! I hope I feel better tomorrow so I do not have to go, and the nice lady told me it would be okay to cancel if I did feel better. She probably thinks I am crackers for wanting to come today and then expecting to be better in the morning!

*

My strength is so sapped that I cannot even muster the energy to address my CHRISTmas cards and therefore I will take the unfinished ones with me to WI. Hopefully everyone will give me a pass if their card is late or is missed...please? I only hope that I remember to pack everything I wish to take along with me. My head feels like it is separated from my body, if you know what I mean, sort of fuzzy and woozy, and all I wish to do is sleep. Some of my spirit is renewed though by Jessica's wonderful offer to do my shopping for me....can you believe it? She even offered to get me a stromboli from Aron's but I respectfully declined, since I have no appetite. A can of chicken dumpling soup in my cabinet will serve as my dinner, if I 'can' muster the strength to open it and heat it up!

'Kathrine, I have a sick girlie here...'

My grandma Sickles would call my mom to report when one of us kids showed up at her door, feeling poorly or what have you. Grandma lived around the corner from church/school, easily a hop, skip, or jump to her house. She would get the sick girlie situated on her daybed, slipping our dresses off and have us lie down in our petticoat. Today I am a sick girlie, starting late afternoon yesterday. This bed has been my home since about 7:00 pm last night, not always fast asleep but dozing and coughing. When I finally went to bed, I was burning up, so had thrown the covers over and hung my leg out, even popped the bedroom door open to let the room air out. At some point, perhaps 4:00 am or so, I woke up and was shaking wildly. No way could I get warm, even though I had my heat pad, three blankets over my comforter, and heater on. Finally I got up and took a steamy hot shower until I nearly exhausted my supply. Then I put on my slippers and climbed back under the covers, now warmed up. That was so awful a feeling, almost like I was outside in the cold!

Justin was coming over here today to clean and do a few things for me so I asked him to bring me some Dayquil, which he did. But, he had to leave again going to help his father survey a lot, being picked up here by his father. He is coming back to take care of the chores after doing the surveying. Justin also brought me a cherry pie, knowing it is my favorite, reporting he could not find any dark chocolate covered cherries. No problem because I happened to find some at Wal*Mart yesterday when I was shopping. Sadly, because I am not feeling well, my appetite is gone although I am hungry. I had one molasses cookie, made for me by Sherri, which has tided me over.

This morning I also had the privilege of having Gus come upstairs to ask me to send out an e-mail regarding the plan to shut off the water tomorrow while his valves are being replaced, or are being examined to be replaced. He was obviously upset about it, nervous, and I fully understand his sentiment. Gus said he has a licensed and insured plumber coming to do the work but not the same guy who did my water heater. He looked so sad---I would have loved to give him a hug, but not when I am sick.

Tonight at church we are having The Compline Service, a meditative service but I am afraid I will be staying in. Not a good idea to venture out and get everyone else sick. I am wondering if I got this bug from Shane on Sunday because he reported to me that he was coming down with a bug and was worried about his voice, etc. Yikes! I hope I can sing on Sunday and feel well enough to travel!

Lynn has troubles at her apartment, recently sold and now owner occupied, but he is no help when it comes to snow removal. Monday she fell down the stairs in front of the building because they were so full of snow, she could not see them. She was unhurt, but mad as a wet hen! Jill had to come with Mom's car to pick up Lynn, go back to Mom's and Jill's apartment building, drop off Jill and then Lynn went on her way to work. Two days in a row, because the snow was not handled yet. Not sure if it was removed yesterday or not, but Mom got phone numbers over the radio of guys who would come and blow the snow. I think Lynn needs to get out of that apartment, this happens to her every single year, almost, and she has been there over 30 years! Just my opinion.....I just cannot bear the thought of Lynn falling down, I don't know why it bothers me so much!

Linda and Tommy were without electricity last weekend, not sure how long, and were still not reconnected to the Internet as of Monday. They have a fireplace and were able to cook some on their gas stove. I probably would have gone to a hotel but they are tougher stock than am I. Poor Kerry was without heat on Monday and Tuesday in her apartment building, and described shivering the same way I was last night. Her fellow tenants include families with little ones, and after countless phone calls to the landlord finally resulted in the furnace man coming. Kerry said she watched over his shoulder to see what he was doing to the boiler, and he said it needs replacing. Hope it lasts through the winter. My poor people up there in snow country and I am going there on purpose!

This is just plain nasty!

Tonight our low temperature is expected to be 19 above zero, and it is important for me to mention the above zero part of that. It could be worse, right? Poor north Florida is suffering! The winds were similar to what was experienced up north, so much so that it blew the water the wrong way in the river, exposing some very ugly areas normally covered by water. Ewww!

This morning I urged myself from bed and got ready for the day, dressing in layers in order to make an attempt at warmth. It was only 34 degrees when I left the house, leaving my red coat behind because I was being stupid...sure could have used a coat today! And gloves! As I reminded the ladies today, not that long ago we complained (well, not me but others...) about having to grab hot steering wheels when we left Longhorn. Today, not so much! But first we did Bible class, where we are looking at the Kingdom of God study. Joseph arrived a bit late, with us wondering if it was too cold for him to walk over. He came bearing gifts, each got a card from him, plus he made brownies, which no one really knew were there. He put them by the coffee maker and he was the only one drinking coffee! After class he exclaimed that no one ate the brownies and then apologized for burning them...I got one that was not well done and wrapped it in a napkin, to go. He took off across the lawn but not before I gave him a church newsletter which has the special service times and dates printed in it.

*

Only 5 of us went down to Longhorn today and man, did we freeze in there! The poor waitress said she could do nothing about the A/C being on because the restaurant temps are 'controlled by corporate'....what???? How can that be true!?? When Mark used to be the manager there, he would climb up and down on chairs or in the booths to adjust the temperature (one of us liked to comment about the cold temps....) but now that he's gone, someone at the corporate office off-site adjusts it??? Really??? Poor, delicate Jackie was eating with her collar turned up, clutched to her neck, handling her cheeseburger with her free hand. It actually felt good to be outside, and better yet, back in the car!

*

At first I had sort of thought to go shopping after lunch but remembered that Sherri was coming back this afternoon to touch-up some of the areas which were missed on her previous visit. She had told me to let her know if I found something not exactly right, so I did let her know! Don't usually do this but felt it was important that she know what was overlooked. The primary reason for her cleaning was to remove the dirt from the remodeling/repairs, and to have sawdust remain in the original damaged bathroom was unacceptable. She even used my Pampered Chef scrubbing tool to clean behind the toilet....Sherri was looking for an SOS pad or similar for cleaning back there. No worries, I put it in the dishwasher and ran the cycle on full tilt to clean it off. Not like there was actually any 'potty' back there, I think she just could not reach it. Regardless of the fact that there was a toilet brush along side the potty....Anyway, she got that as clean as she could, cleaned up the sawdust left behind the door, plus tackled the French doors to the dining room. I had shown her the dirt on the frame but she did the glass and blinds and dividers...which kicked her butt because she could not get the smears off. But she brought me a wonderful plate of molasses cookies, because "I love you so much"! Nice!!!

*

Sherri enjoyed sitting by my computer and looking at my family photos with me, but then had to get going. I think she liked being so close to my heater...Before she left, Sherri asked me if I could help find the address for her cousin in Vail, CO and in two seconds, I had the address for her. She complimented me on my computer skills but really none were required for that search. She also took a copy of The Palace Press, wanting to try the Mexican Dip recipe I included this month. She asked if it was good, and I told her I had no idea, I never tried it! Someone else gave me the recipe, from Kewaunee, and said it was good, so............

*

Worked on the CHRISTmas cards some more this afternoon/evening plus watched my radio show. I feel like I was busy but accomplished little, if that makes sense. Tomorrow, in the bitter cold, I will venture out to shop since I am not sure when Justin will be ready to exchange gifts or anything before I leave for WI. He loves to beg for stuff at CHRISTmas and this year is no different----except that he asked for new toilet for his bungalow! Oh, that guy!

Good Shepherd had a flash mob event today!

There is presently playing a wonderful commercial on Fox of assorted folks singing "This Little Light of Mine"....not sure what was being promoted, but I enjoyed hearing and watching it. It has been a goofy day weather-wise in north Florida, starting with sunshine and plenty of wind. While at church, it began to rain and feel incredibly chilly. That feeling and wetness stayed until just before kick-off when it appeared that the sun was attempting to make a come back. On the ride home, I got a phone call from my friend, Gretchen, reporting that she made it safely across the Buckmann Bridge in spite of the rain. She was pretty freaked out about driving in the rain but she was victorious! Unfortunately, in her haste to get home, she missed out on the Cookie and Candy sale after worship...

I, however, did not miss out on the sale, and managed to make myself nearly ill on the ride home, eating some of my purchased goods! Folks brought festive baked goods or seasonal treats which were bought by the pound by people like me. Two frosted sugar cookies and two Special K green wreaths were simply delicious and took the place of breakfast and part of my lunch. Some of the kids had reindeer made with marshmallows which were dipped in chocolate, with mini-pretzels making up the antlers. On a stick! And very cute!

The day began as it normally does on the Lord's Day with preparations for Bible study and worship, only today Good Shepherd was hosting a special song service for worship. The joint choirs of Victory and GS, plus the bell choir from Victory were participating in the service, bringing Advent anthems to the congregation. Before we had our rehearsal, the Bible study folks gathered in the Fellowship Hall to run through a service called The Compline which we will be using on our next midweek Advent service, to help those who have never heard or done it, become familiar. (Some of us who stayed later on Friday at the School of Worship Enrichment participated in this more contemplative close of day worship.) Before long though, it was time to head over to church to rehearse with the other choir members, once the bell choir was done with their run-through.

As quickly as we could, Rachel put us through our paces, practiced the processional and recessional hymns, plus portions of each of the anthems for the service. We had people coming in and out during the practice, not unusual at all but one of our newer members had her rather unruly son sitting in the church with her the entire time. She got fed up and tried to take him out, but he got a grip on Rachel's pants leg as his mom dragged him away....nearly took Rachel with them! Rachel never missed a beat!

At service time the two choirs gathered in the back of the church for our processional and were ready to go, only waiting on Pastor so we could begin. I head the exterior door from the sacristy slam and knew he was on his way. Guess we were just anxious to get underway! The service was lovely with few glitches, the musicians performed admirably including Suzanne and our new member, Sterling, who plays in the Navy band. For one choir number, he played the bassoon, and it was well done. Robbie was our accompanist this week, and next week it will be Rachel's mom, Esther. She has not rehearsed with us so this could prove interesting for all involved.

Normally nothing gets done in the sanctuary until all the members are ushered out, but since it was raining outdoors, more folks clustered in the doorways and entry. The bell choir got busy almost immediately in taking down their tables and pads and packing things away while the live musicians were still playing the post-service music. At one point when folks were just mingling, Robbie and Suzanne began playing "In Christ Alone", and I was singing. Anne H. heard me singing and said, "Let's go and sing...should we?" and off we went. Poor Suzanne and Robbie ended up playing the hymn all the way through yet another time as more and more of the choir members made their way over to the piano, grabbed music and began to sing with us. A flash mob, Good Shepherd-style!!! Carol told me she wanted so badly to come over and sing but was on the opposite side of the church and in conversation with someone, and she did not think it was 'appropriate' to leave that person and come sing with us. BUT, she was singing in her head, and talking, in Carol's words, "multi-tasking", something she never does!

Next Sunday we do this service again at Victory with their wonderful accoustics making our offerings sound so much more full. Justin is staying the night here with me, driving me to Victory, and then from there, to the airport! "In Christ Alone"!!

That's a wrap!

A little movie lingo there, as I describe the end of my full day. By wrap, I am referring also to my being all bundled under my covers, my fresh sheets which were put on last night before bed. Earlier I was thinking I might have some Bugles for a bedtime snack but thought better of it, since I was already under the covers and did not want those crumbs on my clean sheets. Not yet, anyway. It used to appall one of my co-workers at Shady Lane when I told about how my then-spouse and I would have a snack when we went to bed. And they certainly would NOT have a TV in their bedroom, either!

*

The day began early as Suzanne and I met in my parking lot, moved her music supplies to my car, and then drove to Victory for rehearsal. Rachel is such an amazing director, leading first the bell choir run-through and then the choir. Robbie, the Maestro, was the accompanist for us, and will be tomorrow, but next week, Rachel's mom is playing for us. One of the new members at GS, Sterling, who plays with the Navy band, brought his bassoon along to play on one of our anthems, plus one of the bells is played during "My Soul in Stillness Waits". It will be lovely and she makes sure of that!

*

It was nearly noon by the time we got back to my house and transferred her supplies into her car again. I headed straight to Great Hang Ups where I was serving as hostess for the Open House. The artist who makes wrapped cameos and such was there, doing her craft, which was fascinating to watch, and there was steady traffic throughout the afternoon. People came in for framing, and sales were made for the lovely fused and blown glass ornaments, plus several ceramic items. One big sale was a cut-paper lion art piece a client bought for her hubby for CHRISTmas but is coming back next week to pick up. Many folks stopped to look at it, and we had to keep reporting it was sold. Kris had better get busy and do some more!

*

How fun it was to see so many people I knew, some from Eagle Harbor, several who were teachers at St. Johns, and folks I knew from Art Guild. It was an absolutely grand day but it sure felt wonderful to get home and off my feet! My phone was busy accepting e-mails most of the day, most of them about Facebook items, and I had one voice mail from my dear friend, Rosalie, in Houston. She is going to try again to reach me by phone, when her schedule allows. Man, she is a busy busy lady! Today's mail brought many CHRISTmas cards and invitations to parties, whoo hoo! Tomorrow during the football game, I will work on my cards as well. Just love doing them!!!!

Still snuggled in

Have I ever mentioned how much I like my 'bosom top' computer? Oh, if only I had word processing on this tiny computer...I could stay snug and warm all day. Only a few moments ago I went to the kitchen for a soda and I must say, it was bitter cold in those rooms, the hallway and the kitchen. The thermostat is set at 68 and I have not heard the heat running. My room is independent, both sets of doors closed and the little space heater working through the night. This a.m. I took my heat pad into the bed with me, resting under my back, making me quite content right where I am. At various times I have looked at bedside tables similar to those found in hospital rooms but have not seen one which would likely serve me as well as the system used right now---a pillow on my stomach balancing the machinery. Justin frowns on this method as the dust from the pillow and such is bad for the fans inside the laptop. I did see a nice lap desk at Barnes and Noble that would work but I will wait until after CHRISTmas in case I receive one as a gift.

As I am writing, I am also listening to a lecture over the Internet, being given is a rather dry style, regarding the Constitution. The subscribers/listeners have an avenue to give our input regarding this series and I am going to vote NO on this particular 'instructor', as I remember him from last semester's lectures as being as dry and uninspiring as a bone. One cannot learn as much when one is falling asleep!

Well, let's see...what happened yesterday besides my posting the news about my mystery lump. Justin and I met for Bible study at Victory, a VERY good class discussing further our trials and tribulations in life. The 'chapter' we covered was taken almost entirely from "Luther Works" about this very subject. It was incredibly interesting and at times, funny, because at one point, 'Marty' talks about how some people may have to deal with a 'vexatious wife', which the man reading at the time stumbled all over. It made me giggle, and Pastor Hoyer said that Luther was certainly not talking about his Katie! The readings we covered in class were extremely interesting and makes me feel like I want to read more of the Luther Works books. Now THAT would be a project!

After class and in separate cars, Justin and I drove to Fleming Island to dine at the newly opened 5 Guys, which was quite busy. I love to see that for a restaurant, hope it lasts. We ate inside as it was so cold outdoors but it is difficult for Justin because the restaurants echo badly. This is the second 5 Guys at which we have eaten and the echo was true with both. The furnishings and decor is not sound absorbing, giving the sense of chaos, and with his bad ear, makes it hard for him to hear. Of course, I did not finish my hot dog and we had half an order of the wonderful fries leftover which I took home with me. Justin made the comment that he has never seen me finish the entire hot dog, but it is a quarter pound dog! It will be good reheated later but the fries lose something in translation from fresh to leftover.

We walked to the next store, Sprint, to look at the phones. I was mistaken about the extra charge of $6 for the Internet, the upcharge was actually to have TV sent to my phone. So, nope, no increase in the monthly costs. If I could somehow limit my calls, both incoming and outbound, to landlines, I would qualify for a reduced package, but since this is my primary phone, really do not want to live life with limits, if you know what I mean. It would require me to keep close track of all my calls and such, so for the extra monthly charge, I will keep my unlimited ins and outs, etc. The nice clerk at the store told us that the phone I am looking to buy goes on sale $100 off today so we are going back. The nice young man, Kiel, got a big hug from me for sharing that news with us!!! I will have a GPS for only at one time charge of $50---I hope!

Justin had errands to run as his father's CHRISTmas party was happening last night but he opted to join me at Kohl's. With my 15% discount card, I was able to find two pair of jeans to replace the one pair I ruined with paint when Mike was here doing my work. As I told Mike, that hallway and the doorways are evidently not quite wide enough for me!!! The jeans are the darker indigo which I really like, making them appear less 'denim', allowing for a more dressy look. Between the new jeans and my velour black slacks, I should be good for my traveling to the north. In my drawer are the black tights to wear for extra layering, as Kerry cautioned me that it is not nice up there right now AT ALL! Blizzard conditions abound, and I am hoping all my people get to their jobs and home again safely.

As we roamed the store, he was helping me pick out things, and telling me the style was too old for me (I love him!), I mentioned that I cannot remember when we were shopping for me instead of him! When Justin and I parted company, I believe the first time in ages that he did not get anything bought by me for him, I headed for home. The gas prices had been increasing, getting up to 292.9 recently but I noticed they were 'down' to 289.9 so decided to strike when the iron was hot, so to speak, and gas up. This was the 2nd time in a week for me to fill up, having more than one long trip to areas outside of Orange Park on Sunday, Monday, and Thursday. That bites! Although I saw my dinner rolls were getting green in the fridge, left since ThanksLiving, and had to toss them, I decided not to stop at Winn-Dixie for bread, and just went home.

In the afternoon I addressed the prospect newsletters and now have to stamp and mail them when I leave later to go phone shopping. I was supposed to have lunch at La Nop with my neighbors but they are going tomorrow instead since MamMa is kaput from all her tests and such yesterday. She has done nothing but medical visits this week, in prep for her surgery next week. I am working on my CHRISTmas cards also, and have to write the Minutes from the November Ladies' Group meeting yet. Jean N. was trying to find ladies to serve as officers but was striking out, and I will not do it. That was part of my long-term plan mentioned months ago about backing out of many things I am involved in, with more to come. Part of me wonders what I will do with all that time being freed up....read perhaps?

For my dinner, I made meatballs with golden mushroom soup, baked potatoes, and peas. A real meal! The charm of it was having the oven on and adding some warmth to the house while preparing a dinner for me---multi-tasking! My sister, Jill, made meatloaf and baked potatoes for her dinner---a real baked potato-type of day, it seems! My guess is that Justin and I will have lunch somewhere today but it depends upon how long it takes me to buy the phone. Certainly I will need orientation on how it works, etc. since it will be a touch-screen style, touch and drag features, and apps. I should plan a trip somewhere to check out my GPS.

Mom asked me yesterday if a GPS was really going to help me....Um, yeah, why would it not??? She said that it seemed I was just destined to be lost. This pronouncement was made based upon the time she and I got turned around when leaving the symphony hall one year. Instead of parking in the garage where I normally parked, we parked in the handicap spaces along the building. So when we left, I made my lefthand turn, and ended up on the bridge, I think the Hart, and found myself heading southeast instead of southwest. I circled round and round to find my way back but could not figure it out. So, I called Joanne first, who did not answer, and then Mark, the JSO friend. While he did not know how to direct me, his partner was working it out, but then I saw the sign for Sunbeam Road and knew my way from there. We were delayed in getting home by about 25 minutes, long enough for both of us. Now I am more careful when downtown about not getting into the wrong lane when leaving the TU Center!

Another time Mom brings up was when we were going to visit Rena in the hospital, St. Vincent, which is in Riverside. I did not know exactly where it was, had not gotten specific directions, but knew it was on the river. So, we took Hwy. 17 toward Jacksonville, and in Ortega, started to follow the river as best I could. We did get there, as was the plan, but Mom seemed to think we were horribly lost. It is surely a matter of perspective between the driver and the passenger. As I told Justin yesterday, there is a difference between being lost and not knowing where you are!

Breathing a great sigh of relief

Okay, now everybody, sit back for a bit and read this and do not get all upset….it has a happy ending, with an abundance of thanksgiving and praise to God being offered.

Sunday night I had a marvelous time at the Ladies’ Advent Service at Victory, attending with my friend, Suzanne, who participated by playing her viola. All I did was sing one hymn with the choir. I loved my time spent with Suzanne both Saturday and Sunday, and the time spent with my other church family. As we lingered around the table, chatting and having a good time with Stephanie, Kelly, Emily, and Elissa (our hostess), I made the complaint that my bra was becoming ingrown. Kelly chuckled and said, “Good thing we are with ladies…” and I said, “A lady would not have said that!”, as I worked my fingers under the tightening band. Man, it was pinching me! Had been a long day already!!!

When Suzanne left my place in her own car, I came upstairs to change into my nightie to try to get warm, as it had become quite cold as night fell. Man, that bra was bothering me, and as I took it off, noticed a tender spot under my arm on the side of my left breast. (Any menfolk who might be reading this might wish to look away for a bit…). Oh, oh….I felt around and sure enough, I figured out which area was the tender spot and found what I thought was a lump. Dear God, no!!!

Sleeping was out of the question as I lay in bed making the Lord all kinds of promises and trying in my mind to get my affairs in order. Both ends of the spectrum, between doing battle against ‘it’ or resignation to having to suffer and likely die. Or worse--lose all my assets!! Fortunately I did not promise the Lord anything which I cannot or would not be able to deliver, and am rejoicing to be able to fulfill my end of the deals made. Advice to others is not to do this ‘deal making’ with God when under a great amount of duress…do not try this at home!

First thing in the morning, I started the process of trying to call the doctor’s office because, besides the obvious reason, my female doctor is HIGHLY involved in the Pink Ribbon Commission and is all about breast health and so on. Well, the office was supposed to open at 8:00 am, but every time I called (like 30 times!!!!), the automated system kicked in and told me to call back during regular off ice hours. Well, I nearly got in my car and drove up there to make an appointment but restrained myself, finally getting someone to answer at 9:30. Usually I am just a delight to talk with on the phone but this time, I was nearly frantic as I expressed my dismay at not being able to get through. Poor Eva, she had to explain calmly that their phones and computers were down and only now had gotten them up and running. I backed down, hearing this, and told her I needed to see Dr. Wonpat right this minute. NOW! Well, the soonest she could see me was at 12:45 and I grabbed the appointment.

Thankfully I decided to go ahead and attend Monday Bible study which was a great distraction, great in many ways. And lunch, which I ordered but did not eat, since my time was quite tight schedule-wise. I took my chopped steak and veggies in the to-go box (part of my agreement with God) and headed off to the appointment. I could not wait to see Betsy, as she calls herself. ­ She took me ahead of time, since they are actually on their lunch breaks (why schedule me during their normally closed lunch hour???) and off we went.

My blood pressure was quite high, obviously due to stress, and I explained that I had not slept during the night because of being so upset. She had me find the lump, which was extremely difficult because, because, because it no longer hurt!! I had marked the area as best I could with a pen, an X, and yes, she was able to feel something. Actually, she felt lots of somethings, as is usual and normal for me. She knows I was not going to let this go as only tenderness from my bra or anything, and assured me we would follow up with an ultrasound. Good!

The office manager, who it turns out is Eva, the lady I was frustrated with on the phone earlier, is a cancer survivor, and took sympathy on me. She made the appointment, pulled strings, as it were, for the imaging place to take me STAT. Bravo for Eva! Off I went, and after a brief wait , was taken back for the ultrasound. The technician asked me when I had my last mammogram, which was done there, and I told her it was in May---I thought. Hmmm….she went to talk to the doctor and came back with the decision to have Betsy order a follow-up mammo since it had been 6 months since the last one. So, off I went to get my gown on and sit with the other ladies to freeze in our scant outfits. Should not have sat by the windows!!! Finally a lovely, caring lady took me back for the mammo, one side only, with about 8 different views, nearly painless. She was good! Then back to the cold room to wait for the ultrasound.

That young lady finally came for me and tried to get me comfortable on the table. And darn it, I could not find that lump again for anything!!! Since I had found it when standing up, she had me sit on the edge of the table and see if that helped. Nope, but she used my X to try to get an image. She took several areas, going from every direction, and then we were done. The young lady told me she was going to show ‘my doctor’ what she took, and after a few moments came back to report ‘nothing unusual’. I burst into tears and hugged her close. I had told her earlier that I had been praying to the Lord, asking this to be only my imagination…She said, “Well, your prayers are answered!” I nearly skipped to the car and called Linda to tell her the good news. She was the only one who knew what was going on…and was happy, with me.

Also, I called Justin because he knew I was going to the doctor, only did not know why. Of course, I was crying as I told him the good news, I was going to cry either way, you know that, and he was glad to hear the good report. He said, "Don't cry when it's good news because I am not sure it is good news...", just teasing me. I went home and took a nap!!! Prayers were answered and God said, “Yes, you are fine!” It was the same day as the Ladies’ Group party at Fran’s and I had to be able to drive, so needed the nap. I did not have time to buy my present, which was my plan for after lunch, so all I had was my spinach dip and Fritos to take along. I so did not care one bit that I would miss the gift exchange---I had gotten my gift already!!!!

In today's mail, which could have been yesterday's mail, was a letter from the imaging center and one from the doctor's office, with a report from the radiologist reporting it is all clear, negative results, no sign of cancer. Thank you again, Lord Jesus, thank you so much.

One thing Betsy stressed was how absolutely delighted she was that I came in right away, that I did not brush it off, and that I immediately went to have the tests done. She told me to tell my friends, all of them, that breast tissue is so much more than just the bosom part, but all the areas up to the neck, under the arms, and even around toward the back. So, I am keeping yet another promise, and telling all my readers to do your self-exams, be aware of what's what, and follow-up on anything unusual. Do it!

Photos from the CHRISTmas party

LuAnn, Renee, Janet, Jayne

The Ladies' Group CHRISTmas party was held at Fran's home in Arlington, quite the ride for many of us from OP and beyond. The room used for this party was absolutely fantastic and I envy this space! Every nook and cranny had some sort of holiday treatment---amazing!

Plenty of seating for the ladies! Janet, Jayne (who had Janet as her teacher back in MI!!!), Julaine, Terri T., Gretchen, Judy, and Carol

It looks like Fran is tooting on a whistle but she is, in fact, opening a tiny gift. The stick is actually Sue's cane extending in front of her. This is Fran, Twila, Sue, Kristin, and Ethel

I just love this photo of Jean, looking so serene. A serene Jean....

Terri, Gretchen and Judy watch as someone is opening their present. This type of gift exchange has a tendency of getting brutal...went without bloodshed this year, though, likely because I did not participate!

Carol, on the other hand, is not as nice as she appears! She loves to be the primary present snitcher and has her grubby paws on Jean's lovely electric lantern. I believe she spared Jean and went for something else in the room---whew!

A couple types of frustration today

Love love love having days where I stay in the majority of the time, and wish I could also stay in tonight. We have midweek Advent service first and then choir rehearsal afterward, so must bundle up and go out. Rachel, the music director from Victory, is coming over to our church tonight to help us rehearse for the joint Advent song service to be sung the next two Sundays, alternating between Good Shepherd and Victory. Saturday is a run-through at Victory and then we sing together at GS the 12^th. Sunday the 19^th we will sing the same service at Victory, and from there, to the airport!!!!

Our record setting temperatures continue, resulting in bringing the space heater from the back bedroom and finding a way to plug it in. There are a limited number of outlets available to me, here at Mission Control, but I did find an open spot on an extension cord. The heater is now snuggled right up to my desk chair, and, with one false move, I will have a hot seat! So very badly I want to place my hands on the radiator-looking heater but know this might not be the wisest thing to do. Even though the heater is belching out warmth, I am yet shivering, hence, my frustration!

While sitting here, I was printing off prospect newsletters and got the annoying beep beep beep from the machine, claiming my ink was exhausted. Of course, in the midst of this project, the pages are coming out blank. Well, not quite blank, but very lightly printed. Fortunately I had a replacement cartridge to put in but then the machine has me run a couple tests before resuming the printing. Hopefully I will not mail anyone my printer test sheet instead of their newsletter! That would be frustrating, too!

Earlier when I was cooking (if microwaving food is cooking) my lunch, I noticed that cobwebs were hanging out around my windows yet again. I got the fuzzy wand from the laundry room and began the process of swishing dust all over the place, catching my window corners, the sun catchers (dust catchers!!!) and the lanterns. Now, as I look at the shelf next to my desk, below the area I just dusted, see all my ‘junque’ is layered in dust, which formerly graced my hanging stuff. Ugh! So, therefore, if I get the duster and sweep around on the items on my shelf, must I then vacuum the floors? Oh this dust really makes me wild! That’s okay, I will just go and lie on my bed where I cannot see it so well….

Oh, I wish I did not have to go outside tonight!

But I must do so. Good thing my coat is in the car already, getting nicely chilled for when I leave later on---excellent plan, Kim! Oh, well, by the time I get to church, my car will have sufficiently warmed the coat through and through, especially with my seat warmers going. Today as I drove MamMa to the Mayo Clinic, I warmed her seat for her which she really appreciated. Tracy met us out there and I handed Willie Mae off to her and came home. On the ride back, I stopped at Wendy's on Baymeadows for a soda and saw they now serve hand-cut fries. Yummy! A half order would have been enough as I ended up disposing of the unfinished order. Justin used to like to dip his regular fries in a Frosty ice cream treat from Wendy's, and I wonder if he would like these new fries that way as well.

Tracy gave me such good directions and Cassidy dropped off the paperwork for MamMa (Willie Mae), her great-grandma, after she returned from taking her to the same place for other tests this a.m. plus a parking voucher so we did not have to pay the fee for the valet twice in one day. Nice! We drove right up to the place where we needed be, got inside and to our proper floor and dept. with no troubles at all. The Mayo is a huge enterprise, and was so nicely organized, it made me feel quite comfortable, if that's possible, in a hospital. MamMa and I noticed the abundance of poinsettias situated throughout the waiting areas and lobbies, and figured it is likely a substitute for the highly controversial CHRISTmas trees about which people fuss.

Earlier in the day, I was visited by Dick the Clock Man, who came to clean my clock in more ways than one....not really, he is a delight. He cleaned some of the inner workings, which were gummed up, polished the brass, and made it work like new again. The last time I saw him was at my lake house after moving there in 2004. Dick mentioned that if I ever decide to move out of my apartment......I should let him know. I said, "Let's talk!" It is about 1000 sq. ft. larger than what he lives in now but man, was blown away by the view and room sizes. Most people are, and he especially likes it because he is a photographer as well and would love to photograph the birds and other wildlife seen from my windows. Hmmmm......

If you are not already aware, north Florida has record temperatures going on, lows being in the 20's overnight and highs only teasing 50! All the trees and flowering bushes are wearing white covers, looking very much ghosts out on the property. Last winter, January of this year to be exact, we had similar temps and Connie, the maintenance lady, told me mine were the only plants to make it through the freeze. I hope that remains so this time, too. I watered them with hot water, not directly on the greenery but into the pot. Did that help? Not sure, but worth an effort again.

Last evening I was the designated driver for Judy C., Twila, and Jean, as we headed to a different part of town to Fran's house. I had printed off directions via a website but others at Bible study were making other suggestions than what I had gotten. Oh, oh....now I am nervous! I called Mike K. to ask him about it and he told the directions I had were the best ones for coming from OP. We did well, up to a point, and then, not so good. We tried various people's cell phones for help and not even Mike answered his at first, so next was pastor, who has been there before. He was going to pull out the map, from the atlas, and call me back, but Mike called me in the meantime and walked us to the door! We were the last ones to arrive but only late by about 5 minutes. It would be easier in the light of day, but the darkness for sign reading was not our friend. When it was time to leave, Terri T. lead us back out and pointed in the right direction for our ride back to my house where the ladies had parked their cars. Having not had a good night's sleep the night before allowed me to drop right off, or rather, shortly after climbing under my covers, and I slept until nearly 7:30 a.m. today. It was too cold to get up!

Justin sent me an instant message this late morning, asking me if I made it safely to the party and home again last night. I reported that I did make it, but not without needing help. He got busy on the Internet and found me a new cell phone that would come with a GPS built-in, adding $6 to my monthly billing (I would really like to go less on the bill, but cannot be limited in my talking minutes). It was also my hope the phone would be free but that hope was not met either. The cost of the phone, however, is substantially less than buying a a stand-alone GPS for the car, and it would go with me everywhere. His sales pitch to me, ever the salesman, was that I could even do my blog on my phone. Oh, good! Just what I need, another weapon at my disposal! He went on his lunch break to 'touch it', to see if is what I would like, and it is right for me. I may, just may, have to carry it in my purse or elsewhere than where I do carry it, because it is a soft screen phone. I would REALLY like to have access to the GPS and now have to decide if that's what I wish to do, since my present phone is only a little more than a year old.

So, tonight, I am off to the long-awaited meeting from the SoWE event some of us attended in late October. It will be good to this behind us and the items discussed, if there will be any addressed, we just do not know. We ladies consider it our privilege to give this report and can chalk it up to making an attempt at the very least. Attending that 'conference' was such a wonderful experience that I am considering attending the national Worship Conference in MN this summer! Judy R. might go, too, for part of it. This visit, then, it can encompass Lori's 60th birthday party, and our plans to attend the Winona Shakespeare Festival for which Judy serves as usher, and front office. Sounds like a plan to me!

Good morning, Angelo! and Gabe!

Gabriel and his littlest brother 'nuggling' on the bed before school

Lisa sent this photo taken this a.m., which she titled, "Chillin' with Mama in the morning"...sweetness!

All tucked in

It is getting colder and colder outside with my bed feeling quite snug right now. Suzanne and I rode to Victory for the Ladies' Advent Service in my car, after being 'bumped' by Gus in the parking lot. Gus and I had waved at each other when transferring Suzanne's viola and music stand into my car, and closed the hatch back. We got into the car and were getting me settled in, struggling with my belt because my coat was in the way, when we felt/heard a clunk. And Gus eased his car alongside of me. Suzanne put her window down, as did Gus, and he asked "Did I get ya'?" In fact, you did, Gus! I got out to look, as did he, and Suzanne. She said, "We don't have time for this now..." as we needed to get to Victory by 5:00 pm. Mine did not seem to have any damage but she noticed plenty of red paint on his bumper. All he wanted to ask me was how his borrowed robe worked out. I told him it was fine and thanked him, but did not want to tell him we did not use it. Gotta go, bye, Gus! As we got back into the car, he told me to have the car checked out, and fixed, and send him the bill. Poor Gus, he's had quite a year, with me leaking all over his unit earlier this year!

*

Before Suzanne got here, I watched the Jaguars win at football--whoo hoo! What a great game to watch, beating the Titans which had humiliated them earlier in the season on Monday Night Football, in our house! The way I understand it, the Jags are very near to being able to go to the playoffs this year. Love it! The Packers were also victorious in their game today. I was a winner for getting to spend yet more time with Suzanne this weekend, last night having dinner and going to the symphony to see/hear Handel's Messiah, with the Victory folks. We enjoyed a dinner at Juliette's across the street from the Times-Union Center and then walked to the venue, getting a whiff of the animals inside a tent. The Rockette's show was going on at the same time as our show, and their program concludes with a live nativity, including live animals---which have a whiff!

*

My big news Saturday morning, though, was hearing from Judy Rusert, on the phone instead of e-mail or Facebook. She was calling to let me know of a plan she cooked up with Linda J.---the Ruserts are coming to Manitowoc to see me when I am up there for CHRISTmas!!!! On New Year's Eve, Linda is making an earlier dinner for us and then we will all go to church together. Judy and Jer Bear will stay at a hotel and I told her about the meeting room off the lobby that we used in the spring when I was up there. We played Apples to Apples and ordered a pizza....it was great! We can ring in the New Year if we want to, or not. Judy said I did not have to make my plans around her, she wants to be the icing on my cake, not my entire cake!! I love my friends.....it means everything to me to have my two friends making these plans like this!

If I don't have to, I will not...

....get out of this bed any time soon! It is so cold outside while delightfully pleasant in my room, especially under my covers. A few minutes ago I ventured to the kitchen for a soda and yummy cinnamon roll which I had made yesterday morning, and those rooms were tolerable. That might be because I had the heat on when having my meetings and failed to turn it down last night when I retired. There is no need to heat rooms I am not using, but I do step lively on the ceramic tile floor when I run to the kitchen! The registers in my bedroom and bathroom/closet are still closed since my company was here in September. As a gracious hostess, I will turn the A/C on for their comfort while keeping my registers closed for my own protection. However, having them yet closed does not help much when the heat is on!

*

Friday two of my partners from the School of Worship Enrichment event came over to work some more on our report for the meeting which remains to be scheduled. We had pre-agreed to set a deadline for the meeting so that helped to move us right along. Now I must type up the expansions on comments and then we can meet to present it. For our breakfast, I made a cylinder of cinnamon biscuits mentioned above, which helped warm the kitchen and made it smell nice for a bit. Justin and I had lunch at Koko's, as he asked me if I could go. As it turned out, I could sneak away, but had to be back in time for my next meeting, with a young man from church. Love having my home being THE meeting place!

*

Justin and I popped in a Great Hang Ups before and after our lunch, and I had a great conversation with Julia and Dee. They have some new items available for the holidays and some of them found their way home with me for my gift-giving. When I checked the time, it occurred to me that I had to run, and told Julia I would not have time to stop at Publix now. Julia asked what I was going to get, just curious, and when I said I needed butter....she excused herself and came back with a stick of butter for me! Talk about full service shops!

*

Well, I guess I should sign-off here and start reading, as I have quite the stack of books waiting for me, with two started-but-not-yet-finished books to tackle, one titled "The Council of Dads" and the other "Not Unto Us". Looking forward to my time on vacation when I somehow manage to read when not eating out! Mama, I am getting to excited to see you!