All fixed up...

Much to my dismay, my 'big' laptop at my desk was having problems playing back my podcasts, or making any type of sound at all. I listen to the radio shows here as well as play back podcasts or watch video clips or news items, all with sound. When I expressed this problem on Facebook, my former neighbor, Randy, advised 'us' to uninstall the audio driver and then do a reset, and the driver would re-install itself, hopefully resolving the problem. Justin tried that this a.m.,  to no avail. 

                                             

Then, he wondered if perhaps the problem was not with the sound card device but rather with the hardware. He went into the back bedroom and came out with my 'old' external speakers which he plugged into my computer. I had used them with the Big Blue gas powered machine which had no speakers of its own. I must have burned out the ones in my laptop and now use the external ones again. Hey, if it allows me to continue as 'normal', I am okay with them!

                                      

He was also checking into what was needed for making my little laptop Internet ready, which was part of the charm when I purchased it. Evidently we must take the laptop somewhere to have it made ready to receive the Verizon wireless capabilities, at a cost. In my mind, I am thinking I might just muddle through as I have in the past when visiting my mom, and go to the coffee shop to access the Internet. 

                               

             Jenn's Java in Manitowoc, WI. 

I don't drink coffee but do eat their delicious treats!

I can download my podcasts there, or at Linda's house, plus work on my newsletter and send it off from my sister, Jill's, computer. She is good about letting me use her machine during my visits, very handy as she is living in the same building as my mom.

Justin had to run an errand to his boss's house and is stopping at Publix on the way back. He is getting the ingredients needed to make the famous Strawberry Pretzel Torte for me to serve to Stephanie and Jean for dessert on Saturday evening. Yay! Jean has an open-ended ticket for her return to WI but I didn't want to waste a minute before having them come over for dinner! The meal will be less than impressive as my plans are for a casserole. The dessert will save me face!

                              

According to the weatherman on the radio, it is supposed to be a 10 on the scale of good days. Justin and I have been waking up early this entire week to listen to the morning radio show in case our names are called as winners of an iPad and a mini-iPad. He seems to think that if either of us win, he gets the full-size one and his mom gets 'stuck' with the mini. It seems he would get more use from the full-size iPad (he already has one and has dropped it, cracking its face) than I would ever use! I just want to prove him wrong. But first, I must win!

Neither of us won anything on the recent lottery drawing either (we partook in the 'Stupid Tax', as the lottery is considered by some) on the off-chance of being winners. Since he was a little boy, Justin would dream of what he'd do with the money if he won. Some of his ideas were quite grand, like buying a pipe organ for Good Shepherd. Pete told him he would have to buy someone to play it, too! 

In later years, when Noah still worked at night, Justin wanted to install a security system and put central air conditioning in their home. Plus take care of others in his family who are in need. Now, as he told me last night, he wants to establish scholarships for the six little boys in our family to make sure they are properly educated.  Love that about him, just love it! But, one must win first, to do all that!

It's Italian!

Today at Bible study, we had full tables, welcoming back some who had been traveling and one young man who happened to have the day off from his landscaping job. It was so good to have everyone there, except Rita was missing. We did a study about Advent, beginning in the beginning, with the fall into sin and the reason a Savior was needed. I hope this study goes on for the few classes I will be in before leaving for WI!

                                          

Justin and I were planning to have lunch at Maggiano's and asked Erica and her grandma, Jean, to join us. They did! We took advantage of their special deal where if you buy a certain meal, another goes home with you. Sweet! Justin and I each got another meal, or in my case, at least three or four more, as I ate only half of my lunch! Erica and Jean took home a portion of ravioli to have another time, plus leftovers from their shared lunch. Great plenty and a great deal. 

Justin was able to find the perfect parking space for us, one we hated to give up (ala "Seinfeld") so we went into Barnes and Noble. We each bought something---yes, before Christmas---ignoring the rules about not buying stuff for yourself before Christmas. I got "The Joy of Hate" and he bought a board game to play with his buddies. His game has something to do with Wil Wheaton from Star Trek: The Next Generation fame. We had to hike to the very back of the store to the humor department to find my book. Whew!

                                          

As we were heading for the check-out, we stopped at a table of books where I found one about Italy. At lunch I had been telling Erica about "Under the Tuscan Sun" and the beauty of Tuscany, etc. This book just pushed me over the edge as we paged through it, as tears formed. Justin looked at the cover of the book and said, "Mom, you have this book at home...." Sure enough, I do! Now I can cry at home looking at my own book, or my scrapbooks!

Nice time with friends

This evening I enjoyed time spent with some of my neighbors and other friends at The Club. It is officially listed as being "Happy Hour" but for me, it's dinner! One of my newer friends from the pool, Pat, and her husband, David, were there, too. David plays tennis with one of my neighbors so they had more connection than only mine with the group. I had my Kim Burgers as did Pat and David. They shared an order plus had side salads to go with it. I had the onion straws, thank you!

We met in the 'living room' of The Club, with the giant fireplace going. Love that crackle and snap of logs on the fire, and the scent as well. There was a floor to just-shy-of-the-ceiling Christmas tree in the room as well, with twinkling lights. Not flashing ones, but twinkling, as though the fire was flickering off the ornaments. It was just so beautiful! We had about 18 of us around a table, with the circle being made bigger and bigger as folks arrived. In this room, the acoustics were more conducive to conversation, and it was just downright cozy!

When the food came out, Pat, David, and I moved to another table. Other folks were also leaving to go and eat out, with the lady asking me how to go about leaving without drawing notice. I told her I would cause a distraction so they could slip out! They were my upstairs neighbors and planned to leave this lovely event to go to dinner elsewhere. You almost need a note from the doctor for that to happen!!

This was my last blast likely for this year with Advent beginning this Sunday. We will have midweek worship on Wednesday nights followed by choir rehearsal. Sadly, I will only be here for one of the Sundays when we are scheduled to sing as a choir. I could use more than one rehearsal before singing but hopefully the anthem will be a familiar one for us. The Maestro knows our gifts, and knows our limits as well.

This morning I was printing off a newsletter when suddenly my printer was making beeping noises at me. Rats, I was out of ink! It was a cold, dreary day and I was forced out into the elements to fetch ink. It was shocking how much the refills cost and I told the nice man who helped me that I might be better off getting a new printer. He told I would be better off, because ink for my elderly printer is more expensive than for newer ones. I goofed! Should have spent the extra $30 and gotten the newer printer instead of walking away from it. Shoot!

                                              

Justin recently changed the cartridges in my photo printer (my secondary one) but I got an error message from it saying it was no longer able to print. Fine! Judy C. uses the same printer so I will give her my cartridges. The new printer will have a slot for downloading the photos from my SD card so I won't need to keep the photo machine around. Justin wonders how many printers wind up in the landfills because of the expensive ink to keep them running...Good question!

                                              

While at Office Max, I looked at the stationery (my weakness) to see if there was something I could use for my CHRISTmas letter but it was either 'holiday'- or winter-themed or one I had used in years past. I found something else to use and I like it! 
                                    
It felt so good to be back in my warm room again. The rest of my house was 74 above zero but my room was probably closer to 80. I told Justin I would like a thermometer for my room (hint, hint)...

I also got stamps at Office Max, saving another stop for me. I had printed off the prospect newsletters for next month and had them ready except for the postage. On the 'front' of that newsletter is the listing for our special services in December so I want to get them in the mail pronto. 

On my way out, I dropped the Advent calendar cards in the mail so the kids will get them before Sunday, the first day for opening the flaps. If I send them too early, the kids who don't know what to do open the flaps prematurely, so timing is essential! Plus, some of the cards have to make their way to Sheboygan, WI, which need extra travel time.

Oh, I can't wait to see those boys again!!!!

Oh, a late night...

It was so wonderful to see and hug Stephanie tonight! Her mom, Jean, and she just flew in from WI only a couple hours earlier, so I didn't expect them to show up at class. I should have! When they got up this a.m. it was 14 above zero, so the 64 they came 'home' to felt wonderful!

                                     

Our study tonight was on the Lord's Supper, with six of us in class. What can be a difficult lesson to understand by those not familiar with the practice of close communion, everyone, those going through the class for the first time, seemed to grasp it. And the great mystery of receiving the body and blood of the Lord---well, it was a great class!

I had gotten a phone message from my Elder while in class so I listened to that before driving home. When I called back, it went to voice mail on his end. It could wait, evidently. I was also waiting to hear from someone else from church, but he'd gone to the movies with his son, to see "Lincoln". I know it will be a while as it's a long movie. Can stay up late enough for him to call me back.

Today was the day for Bible history so on my long ride to Lake Asbury, I called Mom. She was surprised to hear from me in the morning on a Tuesday since normally I call in the evening. Shouldn't mess with my mama like that! Part of the road to where I was going is under construction, a good half of it. As I drove along and talked, it occurred to me that I must have missed my turn. I told Mom I had to hang up and drive, which I did, but it turned out I was on the right path all along! The road had been 'redirected' to eliminate the turn and just take me directly to where I was going. Imagine that!

                                          

Amber was late in arriving, by nearly 40 minutes, and I was thinking she was not coming. She was obviously upset and her state of mind was such that class was out of the question. Several tissues later, hers, not mine this time, she told us her troubles, the majority of which are financial ones. Breaks our hearts! Judy was going with her to help take care of some things and I went home to cook up some plans. Prayers are needed for our friend, please...

When I was talking with Justin about the situation a little bit ago, he started coming up with ideas, too, to help resolve the issue. I can't wait to hear what else he comes up with tomorrow when he's had more time to process the whole story. Gotta love a guy who is a problem solver. 

Another friend, a shirttail family member, is waiting and waiting for her house sale to go through. According to her Facebook communication to me this evening, Wednesday is going to be the day. Only about a week and half after it was planned to close, but hopefully now all the bugs are worked out and she is good to go. Her JEEP has been packed up with the remaining items, the POD with her household belongings in it already in WI, with a TV and sleeping bag left in the house. Can't wait to hear that it's finally a done deal and she is on her way. I will see her in December in our shared hometown and we will hug each other in person instead of virtually! Love that...

Still waiting for the phone call tonight...

That's it, folks!

This mornings' Bible study was the last of 2012 for us. Pastor said it gets too busy at this time of the year to have it so we reconvene January 7th, 2013. 2013? That does seem odd to write and then read, doesn't it? We will still have the class on Sunday mornings, and for me, I will have the two classes at Victory until it's time for me to leave for WI. I won't starve but some people at GS just might. They could always go to the class Pastor does at the neighboring apartment complex on Saturdays....

For the next couple of weeks I will still have Bible history class with Amber. She has not been able to attend worship very often but hopefully those gift cards for gas my other friend donated to her will make a difference. While they were intended to enable Amber to get to Bible history, she could stretch the gas to get to church, too. Midweek is good, too, with our little class, if that's all she can afford to do. We have time for three more classes before I leave for the holidays, including tomorrow's class.

Six of us ladies went to lunch at Longhorn and had a different waitress who takes much better care of us. Her name is Amber also, oddly enough, and is in the family way. She had been once before but suffered a miscarriage. This time she has more confidence in the pre-natal care she is under and is nearly 4 months along. Amber is a dear young lady, still has her wedding picture taped to her order taking book! I had a burger from the children's menu with fries, but left most of the fries behind. How a kid eats a burger that size is beyond me!

After lunch I went to Beall's to make a return and an exchange that had been pending for some time. The top was a simple return because I had the receipt, but the exchange of shoes was less easy to do. I had no receipt nor could the clerk track the purchase using my two bank cards. How odd that is! That was my only way of paying for things, why didn't they show up?

This is the shoe I was trying to exchange! Aren't they cute?

Twice the manager had to come up front to assist the clerk yet in training, for this simple exchange of one size shoe for another. Then, it occurred to me what happened, why I didn't have the receipt---my sister probably paid for the shoes! We had consolidated our purchases in order to make the most of the coupons I had. Now it made sense! And eventually I was able to exchange the shoes, same priced, just different sizes and was out the door. Wal-Mart and Kohl's have a great program for making returns and exchanges, and that is something to keep in mind.

Justin came in from work covered in dirt from head to toe. Even his feet were black, and he said, "I need new boots!" I would get him some for Christmas but I have to know exactly what to get so his feet and he are happy. At one point he had a brand that did not hold up well at all, and I don't want to do that to him again. Somehow I will have to sneak a peek. Could have done that when he had them parked outside the doors to "dry off", because he had cut residential lawns all day, and almost every home had a dog.....pheew! Thank you for leaving them outside, Justin!

                         

On the left side of the plate is the green bean casserole, then the pork strips, a sauce for the pork wtith Tostitos chopped up in it (he made it up himself), and a Publix dinner roll!
Tonight for dinner he wanted to make some gnocchi he bought at Publix the other day but instead we had leftovers, as I could barely fit my to-go box into the fridge the way it was. What we didn't finish off was placed into smaller containers for the sake of space. Sunday after he got home from the football game he made us breaded pork chops which he coated with crumbs and bathed in shredded cheese. He asked me to make another green bean casserole, since we had the ingredients on hand. It was a very nice meal to have when watching the Packer game. In fact, it was the only good thing about the Packer game. No worries, though, we will brush ourselves off again, come back strong next week!!! By "we" I mean, Justin and me, but I cannot speak for the Packers!!!

Some joy, some misery

The misery factor is high tonight as Justin and I watch men wearing Packer uniforms get trounced in New York. Oh, it's painful painful painful! 
                              
Such a contrast to the game played by the Jaguars today where they actually won! They beat the Titans by five points, making it the 2nd victory this season. Whoo hoo! As much as we looked forward to our Sunday night watching football, we are crushed. There are only so many crushing defeats that I can stand in one month, guys!

Changing it up

This morning we began a new study of the book of Galatians, a welcome change from the five weeks of stewardship classes. As I mentioned, the first two weeks were replays of last year's program and then the next three were the new program from Synod. I also went through the entire 2012 program start to finish in one hour's time at Victory so am good to go in regard to being a faithful steward! Sadly, I won't be able to keep up with the Galatians study because of leaving for WI. Linda assures me there are good studies going on up there which I will enjoy. 

                                 

On the way to church this a.m. it occurred to me that I had left my camera at home. Shoot! I was supposed to be taking photos of people for the Flock Board. I had a nice purse camera which would have worked only the camera won't tolerate its batteries. Guess I could take it somewhere for a check-up to see what is going on. 

It would not do me any good to call Justin to bring it with him as he spent the night at Ron's house and was leaving from there for the football game. Oh, I do hope he is dressed warmly because it got down to 33 above zero overnight and is only in the 60's today. It's a good Jaguar game, now in the 3rd quarter and they don't stink. Justin said they can't win or will lose their good position for draft picks. What do I do? Cheer or not???

After church was Fellowship Sunday for which Judy serves teeny sandwiches and cookies. An offering is taken for the scholarship fund for our two students at our prep Synod school. (One is a member at Christ, Keystone Heights.) At least it helps defray some of their costs for travel and such. Pastor forgot to mention it in the announcements so one of the ladies stood outside to remind people to come in. At first it looked as though there would be a lot of food leftover but then the flood gates opened! No sandwiches remained and only a few cookies. Judy wrapped some up to-go for Joe Z., that sweet loving man!

Somehow or another, as the result of the outcome of a college football game played Saturday, it was decided to eat at the Duval Chili's so that an adult beverage could be enjoyed with our meals. I have no dog in that fight but Mike C. and Terri T. did. Seven of us went up to OakLeaf's restaurant and had to wait for a table. Once seated the service was incredibly slow, and Mike didn't even have an adult beverage!!! What was this all about??? We decided to stick to our own Chili's from now on where everyone knows our names (well, sort of...)!

We were seated before the Jags game began and left during halftime. Wow! That restaurant was busier than the Wells Road one, it seemed, or else it is smaller. Anyway, the company was great and that counts, too!

                                               

Back in the Fellowship Hall, Gretchen was talking with me about my climbing the stairs at First German to sing with the choir on Christmas Day. Former choir members are encouraged to join the current ones in singing "The Hallelujah Chorus", which I did last year. I told Gretchen I had to start out early enough in the service to have caught my breath in order to sing at the appointed time. She finds that so amusing! Then, Gretchen said she wished she could hear it. I told her she can! Last year I had gotten a CD recording of the service and am taking it to her Monday so she can listen at home. "Oh, some good music..." she exclaimed when I told her the entire worship service was on the CD. Yay for Gretchen!

Besides the Chorus, she was talking to me about her great purchases at Publix this past week. Apparently she enjoys the BO/GO sales like Justin and I do, only she stocked her larder (crisper drawer in the fridge!) with Dove chocolate! She is such a hoot! I guess that is in keeping with the stewardship classes we have been going through---getting the most for your money!

Well, it seems the Jaguars are going to pull off a victory here against the Titans unless they do something wretched to mess it up. Justin will be so glad to leave the stadium not in tears for a change! Go Jags! And tonight, Go Pack Go!!!

It's so dry

The other day I mentioned to Judy C. how I hesitated to say something for risk of ruining it, but my knees seemed less bothersome. They are still stiff, but not angry at me. Strange, I know. My thinking is that perhaps the humidity being less (barometric pressure changes) is having a positive affect on my joints. One negative effect (I am having a dilemma with the "a" and the "e" proper usage...) with dryer, heated air is the dry skin. I seriously need some moisturizing lotion!

****

Justin came into my room this morning, looking all disheveled from sleeping, with a dour look on his face, and making growling noises. At first I wondered if someone outside or upstairs woke him up. I asked him why he looked so surly, to which he replied, "...another synonym...". Ahhh, I get it! I said, "Why do you look so grumpy?" and off we went to Grumpy's for breakfast. My sly and clever boy!!!

****

Justin and his friends went to the late morning showing of "Red Dawn", newly released re-made version of the movie by the same name. I never saw the original, at least I don't think so, and I am glad his pals could go and I  don't have to! At Judy's the other day, Mike S. remarked that it has been 15 years since he has been inside a movie theater. How does that happen? 

                                   

He only recently bought a DVD player in order to watch a political DVD he ordered. Good for him catching up to technology. Now all he needs is a gas line hooked up to his range and he'll be able to bake. He doesn't like microwave ovens either...What a character! At least he has a cell phone and knows how to use the text feature.

****

Yesterday the mailman delivered to my door a box with my Advent cards in it, and two catalogs. As he handed them to Justin he said, "Sorry, no checks today---only catalogs." By this time I had come to the door and greeted him as he was walking off. I laughed and said, "He gets a hug and kiss when he brings me a check!" I thanked him for delivering the box to my door for me. I think he is not afraid of me anymore! 

                                                  

Now I could get busy and work on the Advent cards for the kids at church. Sadly, it didn't take very long for me to complete my task. Not enough kiddos at church anymore....We have one guy who is six years old, and the next one in line will be a one-year-old soon. Eli would not  yet appreciate an Advent card so he will have to wait a couple years for his.

****

I made an executive decision, with which Justin is okay as long as I am. No Christmas tree is being put up and decorated this season. Wow! Instead, I will put up the table-top tree and perhaps a few other pieces to make the house festive. Since I am leaving so early in the month for WI and not coming back until after New Year---well, I just decided not to do it. He is a teeny bit relieved, as he is the guy to put up the tree and then take it down. Recently Justin has been looking at the catalogs which come at some regularity, finding trees that go up more easily, store more readily, and so on. This time he won't have to mess with it at all. 

                                     

The reason I am going 'home' so early in the month is to be in town for the major cultural event---the Lutheran High sacred concert at the Capital Civic Center. Not only is the concert marvelous, but it's a great opportunity to see folks I haven't seen since the year before. Old classmates, my former teachers, other people from the various congregations. 

                                 

Last year I had the chance to meet at this concert one of my Facebook friends, in the flesh, instead of only via the Internet! Love it! It is a great way to kick off the Christmas season, even if it's more than two weeks before Christmas! Messing with my schedule there, guys!

It must be the weekend

Justin and I were talking about this yesterday---how we are mixed up about what day it is. Besides having church two of the days, having the big dinners and 'holiday' feeling, it just felt like a Sunday afternoon to us. The only thing was---no football! That was our give-away. 

I got upset because the network where I usually catch my early evening dose of "Seinfeld" had a movie playing instead. Wait just a minute there!!! Justin said, "Oh, if only you had a giant box of DVD's in the family room to watch...." and offered to grab a disc or two of "Seinfeld" for me. Thanks anyway, Sweets, I will be okay. 

                                   

                                   This episode is called "The Subway"

Justin said he was messed up, too, so it is not just an 'old lady' thing here. He had to chuckle, getting things lined up for work even though that wouldn't happen for a couple more days! Originally he'd had plans to go with his friends for the evening, but people got tuckered out so scratched the outing planned. His boss swung by to pick up some games to play on his newly purchased XBox but didn't want to come up for a visit. Wanted to get home to play!

                                        

One of my favorite things about the feast days are the classic green bean casserole and real mashed potatoes. I did have potatoes at Judy's and at The Club, but did not have the casserole. Fortunately, I had the ingredients to make my own batch, as well as potatoes. At Judy's Thursday, she was telling me how she doesn't care for mashed potatoes with the skins on. I do, however, and rather appreciate some lumps. "Sticky, but good.." was how my little niece, Lisa, described my mashed potatoes as a child. Sticky but good is right! Made for a good dinner last night, too, with the leftover Wimpy meat to compliment the beans and mashed potatoes.

My day began quite early as I made the jaunt down the street to Sun Tire to have the car checked. The guy I spoke to said to bring it right in before they got busy so I was in their door before 8:00 a.m.! Nick was at the counter when I walked in and said, "We just saw you the other day..." so I explained to him what the deal was. 

A fellow walked in and Nick handed him my keys. Just like that! I asked, "Does he know what he's looking for?" Nick answered, "He does if you tell him..." This was confusing to me, and I asked, "Must I go out there and talk to him?" Nick told me that was the guy I spoke to on the phone so he already knew what to look for. I know it was early but really, that was confusing! How should I know that only Nick and Ray are the ones who answer the phone. And who is Ray???

Anyway, I got situated in the wait area, again with the History Network on, and began to read my book. In less than 20 minutes, Ray came in and handed me the keys, saying, "There you go...." I got him to explain to me what was going on, why I was smelling exhaust in the car. It seems some overspray or overfill got on the engine cover (nodding and looking like I understand...) and he did his best to clean things off. Ray said I might smell it a little bit as it works out of the systems but "it won't start a fire or anything..." I hadn't even considered that!! Thanks very much, Ray!!

                                   

By shortly after 8:00 a.m. I was back home and watching the rest of the news. Should have gotten Justin up to go have breakfast but instead enjoyed a lovely ham sandwich on a home-baked roll. He brought these goodies home with him the night before from his father's house. I should have shared my pumpkin pie with him but didn't. Perhaps today I should make him a pie, spreading out our holiday feast for the entire weekend!

Facebook replaces the newspaper!

The local paper from my hometown, the Herald-Times-Reporter, most of the time blocks my viewing of articles, wanting me to become a subscriber to this on-line 'newspaper'. It is barely that, but I do visit the website regularly to see what's going on, check the weather and see if anyone I know has died. Yes, I am at THAT age now! Often times the Green Bay paper carries the same articles, so I can sneak a peak on their pages. 

Someone posted this photo on Facebook of the First German Lutheran Pioneer's float entered in the Thanksgiving parade. I thought that parade was held at night in the past but this time it appears to be light outside. Or else they have a really good camera! 

In yesterday's paper was a very nice article written about the Thanksgiving Day meal prepared and served at First German. One of their members posted the link on FG's Facebook page. The article featured Ralph and Jean Schwark who do the majority of the meal prep, with a team of helpers to set-up, serve, and take down. Ralph cooked when in the military so knows what he's doing in the kitchen. 

Both his wife and he use canes for getting around which can't be easy when working on one's feet all day like that. Oh my! Open to the public and to their own members, it's a wonderful service to the community. FG has a great PR service going for it, somehow or another, and part of that is thanks to Facebook!

A day of living thanks

I am full! Not so full that I can't walk but enough so that I could not eat the slice of pumpkin pie sent home with me from Judy's feast. She made the pie from scratch, including her own crust! Wow! 

Justin and I attended worship last night at Victory. What a lovely service it was! We sat with Erica and her friend, Zach, and enjoyed the pie 'n ice cream social afterward. Justin pitched in to help Rachel put up tables for the bell choir in preparation for Sunday worship. 

On the ride home, we stopped at Publix at Town Center Mall to get more Diet Coke (such a good price!) and few more items. We both noticed the smell of exhaust in the car when operating the A/C or heat. This is new since my oil change Tuesday so I have to take the car back to have them check it over. It seems the smell stayed on me, in my hair or something. Not good! What did they do???

This morning I got up far too early and even tried to go back to sleep, to no avail. Church was at 10:00 am and at 9:00 Justin came tapping at the door, wondering if I was watching the parade or "The Godfather". I told him I was still watching the news but had better get moving. He opted to stay home today to watch the parade, having worshiped the night before. 

GS had a good number of folks attending, and those not there missed a nice service. It tracked through the church year in readings and hymns to help us give thanks for what we enjoy today---salvation. (Last year I made a full turkey dinner, served around 2:00 pm, and still was able to attend worship...I'm just saying...) To me, the holidays are incomplete without the worship. 

Got to see the pastor's daughter home from Luther Prep, a newly licensed driver! Anna is only three months younger than Timmy would be so this gives me pause...Glad to have missed out on having him be a licensed driver! At Victory Wednesday night, Amanda reminded me that her son, DJ, will be 17 next month, born a month before Timmy. He does not have a license as the insurance is far too expensive!

Justin and I went to The Club to have our ThanksLiving feast at noon. We went early to allow for him to be hungry enough to eat again later at his father's house. I was going to Judy's after the first feast, so we both paced ourselves nicely at our first feast! 

Justin enjoyed the variety, and I enjoyed the basics at the buffet. He had lobster bisque (that always makes me think "Seinfeld"!), shrimp, smoked salmon, and other less traditional food items for ThanksLiving. 

                                                 

I had the sirloin, a slice of deep fried turkey, mashed potatoes with turkey gravy, a fresh-baked roll, and a cup of Waldorf salad. Oh, that was delicious! Our waiter was Julius, from the cabana, which was very nice. He made sure my soda glass was kept full at all times! For dessert I had a champagne glass with creme brule while Justin had pumpkin pie and a fruit with cream delight. 

The best part was seeing people I knew and greeting them. Many I will see next week again as we resume our Friday morning Breakfast Club. They were waiting for a signal from me, and I gave it to them. And then I am leaving so I hope they gang keeps meeting once I am gone.

When I got to Judy's, I grabbed a 12 pack of Diet Coke from the back of my car as my dish to share. She was still hard at it in the kitchen, with the two Mike's in the living room watching football. David, Judy's grandson, was in the family room on Skype with his parents. I am so glad he was getting a nice feast for the holiday, as he is a law student at UF and away from home. But not THAT far from Grandma's!

Judy began to carve the bird and realized that it was not quite done baking. The meat was pink even though the thermometer showed it was done. Back into the oven it went to finish baking. 

She made mashed potatoes, stuffing in the bird, green beans with mushrooms, corn, rolls, and served canned cranberry sauce. Perfection! I went bonkers with the potatoes and corn. She said, "It's just frozen corn..." but it hit the spot for me. There was also home-made pumpkin pie but both Mike S. and I took ours to go. Too full to eat it!

Together we watched The Five, which was so great to do, and then I headed for home. They were going to her daughter's house yet that night and I was ready to watch some of the "Godfather" on AMC. It is my holiday tradition, and you don't mess with the family---EVER!!! Like David mentioned before I left, everything you need to know in life, you can learn from the Godfather movies. Simple things like how to make good spaghetti sauce, to leave the gun but take the cannoli's, to say the days of the week, and never, ever say anything against family, ever! Very funny! 

It's all about food...

....but food for thought.

Yesterday I met a lady while visiting Julia and Dee. She wanted to have a photo retouched---a picture of her dad, in his military uniform, dated in the 1940's. The finish was cracked but Dee has a way to 'repair' such things, restore them, for folks.

The client came in with shorts on and knee socks, with a brace on her left knee. She also sported a big white v-neck cardigan sweater over her clothes. Interesting...Well, as she chatted, it was explained that her husband with dementia was waiting in the car, but was fine. 

Her swollen hands ached, and she showed us how one finger sort of locks in the bent position making it impossible to do simple things. She seemed sad, but then not really, just glad to have someone to tell her troubles to. "D" had breast cancer, lost both her breasts but could not have implants since she would not survive the surgery. 

There was a heart attack, some auto-immune disease we ladies were unfamiliar with, and her bad knee. She was thankful for the brace which allowed her to stand!!! Otherwise, she would have been in a wheelchair, like her mom was before she died.

"D" pointed out her bloated stomach which was the result of her medication after the mastectomies. She said she wished she got a little baby from her 'pregnant' tummy! Funny and yet, tragic. Evidently the hormones make her body 'protect' the remaining fat and bloat her. The choice of clothing, then, is limited due to no breasts (but extra flesh remaining from where the implants were intended), the bloated tummy, and the knee brace.

One heart-rending thing she told us was how much she misses her husband, even though he was waiting in the car. Not the shell of a man he's become, but her dearly beloved. I could barely swallow...

He shines, though, in the company of his granddaughters, especially when they practice their reading in front of him. Somehow that connects for him and he with them. "See Jane run. Run, Jane, run..." she told us. 

Her facial appearance reminded me very much of my friend, Joanne, so I really must remember to call her! More than once this lady reached out to grasp my arm or hand, and across the desk to reach Dee's hand. I guess not only her husband flourishes from the touch of others....

Before she left the shop, Dee gave her a warm hug, a long one, as Dee has a way of repairing these things...restoring folks.

Stuff like this has a way of sticking with you!

Thought gathering

Today I broke out a pair of red fuzzy slippers purchased two years ago from a resale shop, when my sister, Kerry, was here for a visit. She loves to shop those stores and I was glad to take her there. I came upon this pair of slippers, still in the wrapper and held together with the plastic ties to keep them as a pair. A cardboard sleeve fit over the toe, also secured. In order to wear them, I had to use a giant nail clipper that had belonged to my father to clip those plastic thingies. I had a small pile of thingies to dispose of before slipping my feet into the red fuzziness.

                                            

These slippers were higher and more difficult to put my foot into, more like a boot with a ribbon around it. That ribbon might need to clipped away, too! Anyway, once I got my foot in and stepped down, it sounded like I was cracking the floor. Oh my!!! Apparently the soles are a bit brittle and make a huge crunching sound as I walk. Can't sneak up on my boy with these on! And they are slick on the bottom which means I must wear them outside to rough up the soles. This has become a monumental task...breaking in new slippers!

****

Yesterday I had an appointment to get my oil changed and tires rotated after Bible study and lunch. When I pulled in, I could see every bay was full, but I had an appointment. Well, when I got inside, I was greeted warmly and then the fellow said, "Miss Kim, I know you're usually very patient but we are running about 2 hours behind today. We have a technician out..." I am very patient but can wait much better from my home, so made a new appointment for this a.m., bright and early for 9:00. 

Today there was no waiting, and was out the door in less than an hour! I didn't mind terribly having to go back, and do appreciate them being honest with me about the timing. Car systems all checked out good, as well.

                                        

When I first got to the shop, the History Channel was playing in the wait area. Usually I watch Fox News there so I asked Nick if he could change the station for me.  Nick said that had to keep the TV off the news since in recent months folks were getting into arguments over it. There was only one man in the wait area with me, on the phone. Nick told me once the other guy was gone, he would change the channel for me. 

Two seconds after the guy left, Nick came in and handed me the remote control. Since I don't know the DISH networks' channels, another technician who simply came for a cup of coffee helped me out. Ahhh....that's better! I was going to put the remote back on the soda machine when I left, but a lady who came in asked me to let her have it, and she put on the Today show. NewsLite!

*****

                                               

It is so nice to have the sun back again! The one good thing about not having the sun shining across my floors is one doesn't see the hair/dust/cruddlies accumulated on the floor. Much to Justin's chagrin, I DO see it when the sun is out!!! Instead of waiting for Justin to get home to address it, I got busy with the microfiber sweeper thingy. The kitchen got it, as did the hallway he just vacuum cleaned and Swiffer Wet mopped. In my room, I used the handy dandy device he got me (himself) and it seems to have done an okay job. When I had these floors put in, my upstairs neighbor remarked, "Now you have to vacuum every day..." and I scoffed. No scoffing any more, unless I grow to appreciate cruddlies on my floors! 

****

I am so sleepy again this morning, having awakened around 5:30 and not going back to sleep. Whether something is waking me up or it's a natural thing, I am not sure, but now I am sleepy. No time for a nap, though, as I am leaving shortly for a visit to Great Hang Ups and to meet my friend, Jacquie, for lunch. She is having her nails done first and then we dine! No Bible history class today so this worked out great time-wise. Can rest my eyes this afternoon after I get home again. 

I did a load of wash this a.m. and had to handle a foul smelling dishcloth which had been placed in the laundry on Sunday night. Phew! I was tempted to throw it away but the washing machine took care of it. What is up with that??? I am getting so particular in my old age, it seems. Just wait until Justin and I start cleaning out the cabinets!

Sunday night I was putting stuff in the fridge and Justin peeked over the door at me. I said I wished I could do that, see over the top of the door, and he said, "You wouldn't want to..." I asked why and he rubbed his finger across the top of the fridge, removing a layer of dust. I looked at him and asked, "You know what you just did there, don't you???" and he said he did. Yup, get the stool, boy!

Chilled to the bone

Yes, I know it is only in the low 50's but the grey skies this past week and the drizzly air make it seem much colder outside. And inside! This morning Justin sent me a text message reporting he was getting colder and colder the longer he was working outside. Usually when a person is working like that, a sweat is built up. Not so today for my boy! The sun did come out yesterday after church but it is hiding again, not be seen at all today. My friend, Emily, wrote this a.m. that she is sick and tired of the gloomy days and I told her it felt like Seattle around here!

At Bible study Pastor asked me if I was okay when I had my hands on my face, but I explained it was trying to warm up my ice cold nose. Fran's hands were icy, too, and she was sporting a fleece turtleneck sweater and a jacket over the top of it. 

Judy C. reported she dressed her two grandkids in t-shirts and jeans, but was thankful they had sweatshirts to keep them warm. Clay Cty. school is out this entire week so she went to get them from home this a.m. and dropped them at her house for Uncle Mike to watch during Bible study. They joined us for lunch at Longhorn later on. 

                                           

Right now I am snuggling with my microwavable heat cylinder and have the space heater going in my closed up room. The heat for the house is set at 74 and has not run since it reached that temp this early afternoon. Justin has my 'old' office space heater in his room to take the chill out. The oven is roasting some beef and pork to make Wimpy sandwiches with later on. Fresh Publix dinner rolls will host the meat mixture when we eat around 7:30. Smells great in here!

Yesterday afternoon Justin and I watched the good Jaguar game together, 'til he got too hot. He came and went as the game went on, even into overtime yet again. It could have gone either way, but sadly, the Jags lost to Houston. I think that's the 3rd time the Jags have gone into OT this season, and the 3rd time they lost it. But still, it was a great game for a change. 

                                            

While watching the game, I also went shopping and did the majority of my CHRISTmas shopping from one store. The presents are already on their way to my mom's house where I will wrap them once I get there. I am proud of not spending too much money while buying for 6 little boys! I ordered from a store they have access to in case exchanges need to be made.

Justin so kindly preheated my room for me Sunday so I would be more comfortable after getting home from lunch. Nice! I had a chore for him to take care of, that being the vacuuming of the hallway floors and the washing thereof. He got frustrated trying to use the clever floor tool he bought me (himself!) and resorted to the big vacuum cleaner. Justin expressed his dismay that the dust just gets into little bales and won't clean up, not even with the Swiffer wet mop. He had to go back and vacuum up the little bales once done mopping. Not his favorite job, as you might guess. Perhaps now he understands my frustration with having to look at it, right after he's done vacuuming!

Saints Triumphant!

For Bible study, we at last finished the stewardship classes (3 weeks' worth) which I went through start to finish in one hours' time at Victory a couple weeks ago. This was a rerun, sort of, for me. Next time we are studying Galatians, which I really look forward to! But what was most 'exciting' about this day was it being "Saints Triumphant" Sunday. 

Robbie had told me he was playing for our worship which makes it that much nicer. The opening hymn was "Jerusalem, the Golden", the new tune from the Supplement, which causes me to weep. Since I was still in the back of the church during the hymn, I could hear the congregation needed some support. I sang out as best I could, until I couldn't! "...forever and forever are clad in robes of white..." Gets me every time.

                

My friend, Kari, sent me this picture of a painting by Greg Olsen, who said this is how she pictures Timmy in heaven with the Lord. She nailed it! ...and she never knew Timmy

I was sad that Paul and Emily got there after the singing of the first hymn, as Emily and I sang together when the choirs (Victory and ours) did the choral arrangement of "Jerusalem, the Golden". She had to carry me half the time!The next hymn was "For All The Saints" which has a similar text or sentiment to "Jerusalem..." but does not make me sob, but sing bolder. 

The readings were all tied to our future glory, with the closing hymn being the final stanzas of "For All the Saints..." I turned to Twila and Jean to tell them, "This is my favorite..." and they chuckled, as it seems they all are my favorites! For the recessional, Robbie played "In Christ Alone" and the tears started again. As did the singing, as I made my way down the aisle. 

After lunch I took a few more pictures of folks for our new Flock Board. Lonnie had made a wood-framed board with carved flowers and vines colored in green, top-of-the-line look for our Flock! He also built a wood framed bulletin board for the Fellowship Hall which adds class to the room. Two tall people put up my blue table cloth as a back drop, closing the corners in the doors of a free-standing cabinet. The blue was a nice background and made a big difference for the shots.

Terri, Mike, Judy, and I went to Chili's for a change for lunch. The waitress told me she likes to see my face on Sundays---how nice! I had dried my tears by then, of course. The others got there ahead of me, as I had to wait through 'the light' on Wells and Blanding, and had ordered my Diet Coke for me. I had my usual lunch and took half home with me, which Justin nabbed as soon as I got home. 

He didn't go to church today, as I believe he got home rather late from his friend's engagement party. We are planning to attend Victory on Wednesday night for their ThanksLiving service and I will go again on Thursday to GS, hoping Justin will join me there as well. After church we will be going to the buffet at The Club. From there he will go to his father's and I am going to Judy's to perhaps celebrate again!

But lo! there breaks a yet more glorious day;

The saints triumphant rise in bright array;

The King of glory passes on His way.

Alleluia, Alleluia!

A great movie day

Justin and I went to the movies late this morning, getting in at the 'cheap' price of $5 per ticket. The same price was paid for a large soda, imagine that! We shared the drink and got a free refill which I am only now finishing off thanks to the amount of ice I asked them to use. Not really a 'good' deal but it has held me since 11:00 a.m. to the present time.

                                                    

We saw the movie "Lincoln" and were very impressed with it. As far as I know, it is fairly accurate historically but not being a student of the Civil War I am guessing it's accurate. One my friends who saw it claims it follows the book fairly closely with little dramatic license taken. Doris Kearns Goodwin wrote the book upon which the movie is based. At least I know it's true to the book, if not historically so.

The movie was over 2 1/2 hours long but it didn't seem like it. Most of the action revolved around trying to get the 13th Amendment vote into effect prior to the end of the war. Oh, my! The politics involved in that process---makes today's leaders look like amateurs! As my friend stated, she didn't know they made movies like this anymore. So good!

After the movie Justin and I went to TGIF and had slow service but wonderful food. I had my usual of sesame Jack chicken appetizer as well as the pretzels and cheese dip. He ordered a burger with cheese sauce---a cheesy day! He brought half home with him since he helped me with the pretzel sticks. So filling! 

                                               

Tonight he is at his friends' engagement celebration as well as the birthday party for his friend, Sarah. Ron and Sarah were engaged last night, and will be Justin's landlords some time soon, we hope. Justin was making cupcakes to take and wanted to dress them up a bit, more 'wedding cakey' so bought fancy toppings to put on the iced cakes. We bought the icing from Publix, the same stuff they use for their butter cream cake frosting. It was expensive but I covered the cost as my donation to the cause. He wanted so badly to make them nice, even adding almond flavoring to the mix for extra flavor. My, the kitchen smelled wonderful!

This late afternoon I made my travel plans for going to WI for CHRISTmas. Mom agreed to let me stay with her and let me use her car. I have asked Lynn for a ride from the airport and I hope that works out. Otherwise I can ask someone else to get me or take the shuttle. Don't mind the shuttle, have had good visits with folks in the van with me. Now I am getting excited, trying to accept the fact that in less than a month, I will be in Manty. Green Street, here I come!!!!!

SnoBalls and Suzy Q's

Almost as big a story as the sex scandal around our Nation's top military leaders is the one of the demise of the Twinkie. I don't want to hear about it, but this story is everywhere. I know that other companies already make a knock-off of these baked goods. What is a newsworthy portion of this story is the reason why the Hostess company chose to close---the Unions refusing to reach an agreement. Earlier in the week I had heard rumblings of this happening but it seems as though today is when it hit the mainstream media. 
                                             
I will miss the SnoBalls but another company already makes a relatively identical Suzy Q product (oh, please, don't let them be Unionized!!!) so I am good. Every year when the SnoBalls appear on the shelves, I would buy a package for me and one for Cliff, and put it in his church mailbox. We both had a passion for the SnoBalls!

                                               

What are larger news stories are the escalation of tensions in the Mideast, with Israel on the brink of war. Soldiers and reservists are poised for an air and land assault unless a truce is reached. Meanwhile our own military is bruised to the core by the loss of three or four high ranking leaders for various reasons, mainly, sins of the flesh. I hope our armed services are not called upon to serve another front until this is all settled.

The "best" part of the scandal is that the eyes of the mainstream press are at last focused on the killings in Benghazi and how this was allowed to happen. Why was the call sent out for help and none came? Who removed the name "Al Quaeda" from the talking points and who introduced the idea that a video caused a riot? Hopefully the truth about this event is flushed out and the parents and families of those killed at last will have answers, as will the Nation.

                                                

We are on Day Three of no sunshine and I am powering down something fierce. Justin again insists we get a SAD light and even has in mind the place to position it in order for me to benefit. Oh my! Besides there being no sun for days, the temperatures are dropping, chilling me to the bone. Even Justin was cold in the house, air temp showing 74 above zero. He plugged in my space heater for me in my room, and turned the heat on for the house for about 5 minutes, to get the chill out. As I said before, I have ruined him!

Today I spent about 5 hours with some of my lady friends working on the church archives, the photo portion of this project. We made great strides and think we might have an excellent chance of finishing up in the next two sessions. We did decide, however, to pause this project until after New Year as our time becomes more precious. 

                                                   

In the Fellowship Hall, two couples were painting and "redecorating" the bathrooms which were left untouched during the remodel. They chose a blue/grey or perhaps brighter hue than that for the walls. The ladies did the painting with Jim helping do that, but Lonnie is not a painter, so he busied himself elsewhere. New framed mirrors were installed and pretty light strips put in place over the mirrors. We are going to be the envy of church bathrooms, although we have a long way to go to match Victory's spaciousness!

                                            

Because I am so appreciative of their efforts, doing this on a donation basis, (not costing the congregation any money) I offered to chip in toward the effort. Must remember to take care of that on Sunday. These two couples also arrange for the lawn service out of their pockets so they allow me to help out with that every now and again. Because I can no longer do the yard work or other chores, I am glad to help those who make it happen. It matters to me what our property looks like to the community, and, besides that, this is the house of the Lord! We should take good care of it!