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No longer on the river and, again, an empty nester. Back to living on Fleming Island and making some more friends!

Sunday, January 31, 2016

It's a Chili day!

Tonight I walked through from the kitchen and noticed that one of my birthday balloons, now nearly 30 days old, has lost its poof! 

I've created a monster in my Justin, quoting "Seinfeld" or making references at every turn. Ever since watching "The Millennium" episode, we, especially me, can hardly see or say balloon without thinking of Kramer! In this episode, in anticipation of the century turn, both Kramer and his friend, Newman, are making plans for millennium parties. One has already reserved a venue for holding their party, even though they had a couple of years to wait.  It seems out of character for them to plan so far out, being seat of their pants most of the time, but they did. Kramer started hauling folding chairs into Jerry's apartment, assuring him they would be out of the way stacked against the wall, for over 2 years!! Why????

The balloon joke comes in later when Kramer shows up at Jerry's apartment again, this time carrying a huge bouquet of balloons, maybe a dozen of them. Jerry says, "Kramer, there is no way those balloons are going to last until the millennium!" to which Kramer replies, "These are my everyday balloons." Silly Jerry! Even now as I write, I cannot help but laugh. Now, to me, every time I see a balloon it's an 'everyday balloon'. 

This morning was Bible study and worship. In our Bible study we are finishing up a study on "My Son, My Savior", the Synod's most recent DVD release. I had seen the movie in entirety when in WI, but in this case, we are seeing snippets and then having discussion of what we saw, etc. I am not as impressed with this movie, not up to the caliber, in my opinion, as the previous two. Anyway, it will be nice when we are through with this and back to regular study. 

The last Sunday of the month is Fellowship Sunday, sponsored by the Ladies' Group but run by Judy. She makes finger sandwiches which are most popular, plus cookies. Betty has started making cookies, too, both of them good bakers. There is a collection basket out, the proceeds of which are applied to the scholarship fund, presently our pastor's son who attends Martin Luther Prep. We don't collect a whole lot but at least enough for a plane ticket now and again. When no students are in Synod schools, the collection goes into our mission funds for LWMS. 

After church our group headed to Chili's once the Fellowship stuff was cleared away. We all enjoyed our time together at lunch, one of the highlights of my week. I am still using gift cards for our meals there. Justin was with us again, being a 'bye' week between playoffs and the Super Bowl. Love having him back at lunch on a regular basis now that football is coming to an end for the season. Only 26 weeks after the Super Bowl and it starts up again, but who is counting!?

Saturday, January 30, 2016

Gorgeous morning greeting

My neighbor, Sharon, took this photo of the morning sky earlier today. It looks as though it's on fire!

Justin and I are having an at-home day today, only because we have no other plans. I am so cool with it. He stays in his room and me in mine, with periodic meeting in the middle, the kitchen! Justin pokes his nose in here occasionally, too, when he has something to show me or tell me. Saturdays are favorites of mine, sadly, because of the TV! Yes, I've said it, the television is my friend on Saturdays. From when I wake up until 10:00 a.m., weekend hours, I watch Fox and Friends, switching between it and Law & Order on another channel. The rest of the forenoon is spent watching reruns of L & O on a couple of channels. Love that!
Space Shuttle Discovery launch, as seen from my river room, July 26, 2005

Probably because of the anniversary of the explosion of Space Shuttle Challenger a couple days ago, the movie "Apollo 13" was shown this afternoon. Three hours worth. At first I wasn't going to commit to this movie, but given there was little else I wanted to watch (no L & O in the afternoon), I did it. I have seen it before, more than once, and I had to laugh at myself. Caught myself holding my breath or hands clenched during portions of the movie. Even though I knew they made it back safely to Earth, it was nerve wracking. THAT is a good movie!

Friday, January 29, 2016

Milking my birthday

When my sister, Lori, and her family were here to help celebrate my birthday, I took Lori and Dusty to eat at Saigon-Tokyo for dinner on Sunday night. This was the day after my party, mind you. Justin stayed home because his stomach was upset, thinking he overdid it on the birthday cake which had come home with us. Anyway, Tracy, one of the owners of "Koko's", is a friend of mine on Facebook and had offered me her good wishes on my actual birthday. Very nice!  

Well, after we had finished our meals, Tracy and her staff came over to the table to serenade me with a birthday song, complete with drums and tambourine! We were treated to fried apple pie and it was wonderful. Lori there accused me of milking my birthday, and I told her I had nothing to do with this celebration, nor did I influence the one which took place at lunch earlier in the day! 
Dee won First Place in the art show, the theme was about the performing arts. 

At my party, when I was 'roasted' by neighbor, Debbie, she promised to take me to eat as my gift from Dick and her. Tonight, she made good on that promise and took me where I chose to go, Saigon-Tokyo. Still milking the birthday at this late date. Our original plans were to visit the art gallery at Thrasher Horne Center to see our friends' entries, including the artist whose piece Debbie bought before Christmas. I passed on the Opening Reception last night because Debbie and I were going tonight, only to find out the gallery would not be open. That didn't stop us from having dinner, though. Dick is gone on a golf trip so we ladies went by ourselves. We talked and talked and talked, and then some more!

When we got back to The Palace, Debbie parked the car, and walked across the lot with our neighbor, Kay. She was just returning from an away trip for PACE and was excited about what she'd learned, etc. We tried to make plans to talk about it, but her schedule was full. We made plans to get together during the week, then, when her schedule cleared. She is one busy little bee!
A bit after the fact (i.e. the beginning of the year) I started to write in my journal titled "364 Day of Thanksgiving". I'd gotten a copy for Linda, Pastor Hoyer, and me. It is part book and part journal, written by a WELS pastor in TX. I gave a copy to Pastor H. because I occasionally reference what I've read in that other pastor's blog, when in class, and thought he might appreciate reading this book. A few years ago Linda and I did a thing where we wrote our blessings on little slips of paper and kept them in a jar or elsewhere. When I was in WI at ThanksLiving time, she read me a few of hers. I should pull mine out, too, to see what I wrote. Now we can write in our journals about the things for which we are thankful. I had such a good day today, I have lots about which to write!  

Thursday, January 28, 2016

A day of memories

Today marked the anniversary, the 30th, of when the space shuttle Challenger exploded. At the time of this event, we lived in our 'big house' in Manty, with floor to ceiling windows in the dining room. The day the drapes were installed, Leon, the shop owner who made them, was the man on site. He described them as being theater drapes. It was quite the job to get them hung. 

Our office was in the basement in this home, a very nice room designed to serve as our office, complete with wall heater to help warm it/me. I had a tiny TV on my desk and was watching this historic launch. A grade school teacher was going into space, imagine that! Her students were watching as she boarded the shuttle with the astronauts. They were also watching when those infamous words were spoken: "Go with throttle up". The Challenger exploded, most not sure of what they were seeing. 

I flew up the stairs and called to Leon to come watch on the family room TV. Together we watched, along with the nation, the horror of the shuttle blowing to bits. Mission Control was just that, controlled, finding out later that the shuttle had exploded. They had no TVs or screens in their room other than the ones they used to monitor the equipment, being in Houston. It took a bit before they determined that there had been a 'major malfunction'. Quite the understatement, but, again, understandable, given they had no visual of the explosion. Still makes me feel sick thinking about it. Can it be 30 years already??? 
Here is Billy modeling my new coat in 2007, holding a fancy cane, much like Kramer's (Seinfeld) in "The Wig Master". Behind him you can see some of his gold records. 

This is a day of nostalgia for another reason. 7 years ago today my neighbor, Bill Powell, passed away at home. Somehow I missed all the excitement during the night when the rescue squad came, having been called by Billy before he passed away. Ellen was at their beach place but a niece was staying with them, and heard the EMTs pounding on the door, finding Billy was already gone. I still can't believe this-he was so young-in his early 50's. The Lynyrd Skynyrd folks have sure had a rough time of it. Billy was a survivor of the plane crash in 1977 that took out their lead singer, a guitarist and his sister who sang back up, plus the pilot. 

Billy had a love of life and knew his Savior, which is a great comfort to me. There used to be a plaque in the elevator with a quote from Billy, but it has disappeared, and no one knows what became of it. Such a shame what folks will do.  

Wednesday, January 27, 2016

Mom's birthday

Today is my mom's birthday, turning 91 years old. Oh, my goodness! Her mother before her lived to be 99 3/4 years old, and might have made it to or past 100 if she hadn't broken her hip. Mom's doctor says she is in excellent shape, has really few ailments other than her 'goofy' back which requires her to now use her walker even in the house. The back is weak, doesn't hurt her actually, but gives her the feeling of giving way if she walks around without it. But, as I mentioned, she is doing great for 91. In fact, when Justin and I called to sing for her, she was gone out, probably with one or both of my in-town sisters. We left our birthday anthem on her answering machine so she can enjoy it forever!
Mom at Christmas this past year

My sister, Kerry, let me know that she called Mom and sang to her earlier this a.m. and informed Mom that some flowers would be delivered today from Kerry and her daughter. Mom said she wasn't sure where she was going to put them. Oh, that mama of ours! Jill, my sister who lives in the building with Mom, said she would make sure there is room for the bouquet. Kerry is a flower and plant person, absolutely loves having the color and scent in the rooms, and outside as weather permits. Jill is planning to take Mom out to eat and is getting her a box of chocolates. Mumsy will love both those things! 

This afternoon I had a luncheon with the Republican Women's group at The Club. Our speaker was an author who has done a series of books about the government and its characters, using the theme of children's books. Very cute and most accurate! They look almost like Dr. Seuss books. Anyway, he was extremely interesting to listen to, a man whose background is in economics and finance, spelling out the dangers we are facing in this next year if 'we' don't get things turned around. He really knew his stuff, is considered an expert in his field regarding the dangers of Keynesian economics. The woman who books for the speakers was seated next to me and I let her know how much I appreciated the speakers we've had. Not a dud in the bunch!

Tuesday, January 26, 2016

Tour of restaurants

Today was a bustle of activity for this group of church folks. Judy C. picked me up and we headed over to pick up Betty who was waiting at church. Judy was driving these two Miss Daisies to meet the Over 50 Lunch Bunch at The Village Inn. As far as my memory serves me, this is my first time eating there, reminding me very much of a Shoney's-style of dining. There were 15 of us and I still can't believe how quickly and efficiently our meals came out.  
Decisions, decisions!

I had one of my favorite meals---meatloaf, mashed potatoes, and green beans. I ate all the meatloaf and potatoes, and brought the beans home with me. They were fresh---like out of the garden. I think everyone enjoyed their meals, some having food from the breakfast menu and some, like me, from the dinner menu. The meatloaf came out like a football shaped meatball, but it tasted wonderful. The waitress had to help to get ketchup from the squeeze bottle, which made me feel foolish. But two of us tried before asking for help. Guess I just had to get rough with it first!

After Judy dropped us off again, I got busy working on the newsletter before taking a little rest. A nap was needed because some of our group, actually our Sunday group, was reconvening at 6:30 at The Outback, to surprise Michael for his birthday. I had gotten a gift card for him yesterday, not for a restaurant! I was able to pay for my meal, plus the Bloomin' Onion and a 'skinny' strawberry margarita using a gift card gotten for my birthday. Justin was my driver so I did enjoy my skinny drink. Terri and OJ had one also, and because the bartender got carried away, the waitress brought an extra one to the table for us to share, but when we left, it was still there. No to-go cup for that one! We did surprise Michael as Judy dragged him in the door. Guess he didn't think to look for our cars in the parking lot. I brought home most of my sirloin marsala which will go perfectly with my green beans!
My neighbor, Ellen, captured this full moon this evening. So lovely!

Monday, January 25, 2016

Making up for missed time

Because our pastor is away at a conference, we did not have Bible study today. Not to worry, though---alternative plans were made! One of our members, Trish, who works in retail, came to church yesterday after having had to work most Sundays up until now. Yay for us, and for her!  I told her we wouldn't be having Bible study today so we made plans to have lunch together. Can't let the moment slip away, you know?
I let Judy know we were going and asked her to join us. The three of us met at Metro Diner at 11:30, hoping to beat the rush. After I checked in on Facebook (indicating my whereabouts), Terri texted me wondering if there was room for one more. Of course, there was! Even though we'd ordered already, all of us ordering the same thing, I was able to order for Terri so the food was almost ready when she arrived. We had a great visit, fun catching up with Trish and sharing our 'news'. Our waitress was so attentive and kind to us schnuddering ladies. 

And Trish treated our whole group!  Terri tried to pay for hers but Trish wouldn't hear of it, but she presented Trish with a 10% discount coupon to use, which was applied to the bill. I was being treated for my birthday but the rest were 'just because'. Trish also gave me a lovely book, "Shine On, Beautiful Soul", a devotional, plus a very nice birthday card. She was invited to my party but sadly, had to miss it due to working. What a nice time we ladies had over our lunch!

This afternoon, late, I had an appointment with the groomer, Barb, her last of the day. I couldn't wait another moment to get my ears lowered. Normally it's about 4 weeks between visits but I'm at 6 weeks right now. I was losing the ability to manage it properly. Thanks to Barb for getting me in! From there I stopped at Publix for a few things, which ended up being more than a few but I made good use of bargains and bo/go purchases. Justin and I were planning on leftovers for dinner so I wasn't really shopping with a meal in mind. I did get a gift card for a birthday party we are attending tomorrow evening. Paid full price for that!

Sunday, January 24, 2016

Brown Bag Auction

Today as I pulled up to the church property, I was thinking to myself, "Oh, no, not again...there's no Bible study??" but then I saw Betty's car. We were both parked in the shade (ha ha) on this very cold day, only 31 as I drove to church. Our children's Sunday school was restarted as of today but not until 9:30. I hoped that didn't keep people away, thinking our adult Bible study didn't begin until then. As it turned out, we had 7 people total, including one dad who had brought his sons for Sunday school. 

After worship we convened in the Fellowship Hall for a potluck and Brown Bag Auction. Members were asked to bring in unusual or 'white elephant' items concealed in a brown bag, marked with a three-word clue as to contents. Brad served as our auctioneer whose task was to entice the bidders. He did a a marvelous job with his hints as to what was in the bag or who would appreciate it, etc.  
Sometimes bidding wars broke out, one time ending up with one man paying $10 for a baggy of red hots candies!!  That's what I call a good auctioneer!  Even the kids had stuff to bid on, with some of us ladies giving them money so they could play along. One of the top prizes was a box of new baseballs which one of the boys bought. All four of the brothers play ball so this was a perfect purchase for them. Lots of fun and good food enjoyed today! 

Kristi got the bag marked "Cinco d Mayo" which was a jar of salsa, some chips, and lovely chip bowl with a stand. I would have loved that, but was outbid. 
 
When the event was over and clean up was underway, one of the boys got busy with the vacuum cleaner, much to my amazement. Such nice kids they are!

Saturday, January 23, 2016

An at-home day

Baby, it's cold outside and this girl had no business going out there. I did, though, twice, in my attempts to see the snow flurries others reported. Some of my friends have seen snow flakes in the more inland areas, bit I expected the river would keep us warmer, less likely to have flurries. Justin was leaving for some appointments and called me from the parking lot to report seeing flurries. I could hear my neighbor, Kay, most excitedly talking to him about the flakes, as he talked to me. She is a true Southern girl and was thrilled to see it. I put my sweater on and went out in my slippers to look for flurries, but did not see any. What I did see on this very cold day was an outdoor wedding getting ready to happen. Talk about rotten planning!  Or good plans being ruined, seriously affected anyway, by an artic blast.

I spent the balance of the day between my desk and my bed. The cold seems to come right through the windows or the area around my windows, despite the built-ins between the wall and me. Though the space heater alongside my desk does help when it's cold like this, I like it better away from the window. The best part of Saturdays is having back to back to back episodes of Law & Order on various channels throughout the day. 

Justin had some appointments today including going to the gym with Jesse and then an IT apointment over in Mandarin for one of our former neighbors. As long as he was there he planned to meet up with other friends who live in Mandarin but those plans did not work out. He came back this direction, asking me if I wanted to go to Koko's. Oh man! I had planned on staying in all day but sure enough, I was enticed out of the house by fried rice and teriyaki chicken! 

Because of our potluck at church tomorrow, I was going to make a pasta salad using ham from the freezer. I realized I had no baby peas to put in the salad so asked Justin to pick some up. Since our plans for dinner changed, I suggested we stop after dinner to grab the peas and I would make the salad after we got home. Well, we had to wait about 20 minutes for a table (love that!) as every one was full and by the time we finished our meals, it was 8:30. As we ate Justin was telling me that he was planning on going to bed early and get caught up on his sleep, etc. That is, until his friends messaged him to meet up. Off he was going with them, so instead of going to the grocery store tonight, he is going to stop at Publix in the moring and buy pasta salad. That so works for me! I'll do something else with my ham chunks, like perhaps grind it up for ham salad!

Friday, January 22, 2016

My kind of day

How could we be greeted by this sunrise and not have an enjoyable day?

This was a perfect at home day for me, thanks to the weather and not having a single thing on the schedule today. The day started out rather chilly, for FL, but probably about right for winter. Just because I was out and about doesn't mean things weren't happening around here. Once again our building had to shut down use of A/C heating while repairs were done, in the same unit as the last time. Closing the barn door after the horse has escaped, an emergency shut-off valve was installed in the unit which had the leak just days before Christmas. I did my little thing of notifying people when it was okay to use our heat again. This was a good day to do this since it wasn't horrendously cold yet, as is predicted for later tonight. 

Last night I was murmuring to Justin about my cable service not allowing me to access a couple channels I was did watch only a few days ago. Neither TV gets the channels so it's not the TV and it's not the box or the remote control. I like watching reruns of "Last Man Standing" which had been showing on CMT as well as Hallmark, but now CMT won't come in any longer. Justin's answer, as always, is "if you paid for cable, you could get help with this."  Well, I do pay for it, through my condo fees, but do not have any upgrades to the service which is provided. What I DO have is basically Basic service, with some extra channels that come in via 'signal bleed through' either from other users or simply because they do. I found that out the hard way once when I called in to ask for help with a bad signal on Fox News and the tech told me I wasn't even supposed to have it. I hung up real quickly then. Don't want to mess with what I do have. 

Years ago when I bought the new TV, thinking I had to because of the switch to digital from analog, I also got the cable box with DVR and upgraded to HD, at the behest of my son. I can't believe now how much I paid for that TV which I do not have any longer because it quit working. I could get two TVs, larger ones, for what I paid for one! There's one born every minute! When Justin moved out, I took that DVR box back to the cable company and discontinued the HD service, too. I bought the boxed set of "Seinfeld" so I could watch episodes at my discretion and not be held captive by the DVR in the living room. I was liberated!  
I am still liberated but lack the capability to record anything nor am I able to watch some of the reruns I would like to, when I would like to. Harumph! It's my own fault because I am too stubborn to subscribe for more services/channels. Not the only one in the building, though, as Gus doesn't either. He doesn't have Internet either so every e-mail I send out has to be followed up with a phone call to him. At least he has a phone, I am more modern than he is by having the Internet anyway!

Thursday, January 21, 2016

National Hug Day

If a person follows the news or more probably Facebook, every single day is something special. Siblings Day or Adopted Children Day, French Fry Day, or Hug Day. Today is that last one, Hug Day. I heard about it too late, however, as Rita sent me a message that she missed getting a hug from me on National Hug Day. I promised to make it up to her next time I see her, offering to squeeze the stuffings out of her!  

This morning we had such a good turnout for Bible study that more chairs needed to be pulled up to the table. This is a great problem to have!  Rita brought a tray of sliced WI cheese to share with the group, provided by Stephanie for last night's Bible study, at Rita's home. It didn't get used so she shared it this morning, with Ritz crackers. Yum! She also brought some petit fours of which I took one to go with my two crackers 'n cheese. Just before class began Stephanie and her mom came in, bearing homemade frosted sugar cookies. I had a couple of those as well, and Stephanie wrapped up a pack of them to take home with me. I nearly wept with joy over my favorite cookies.

Rita asked me if I wanted to go to lunch but I respectfully declined as I having dinner out tonight and had had a sizable snack here at class. Now, of course, I regret saying 'no', because I never say 'no', expecting Rita wouldn't take me off the beaten path to eat, most likely. Often when these folks do go to lunch, it is to a place the opposite direction of where I am going, so I decline. If they go in the immediately vicinity, I will join them, like Johnny Angels Diner or at the Mall. One of these times I will have to say yes or they will stop asking me!

A treat for the members of The Club is getting a free meal for their birthday present so Nancy W. and I went tonight to Casual Grille Night to use mine. I could have had the most expensive cut of meat on the menu but had my usual choice of the Delmonico, a 14 oz. steak dinner which comes with appetizer, salad, meat, potato and veggie. For just less than $22, I get at least two meals from it. Nancy polished hers off and Marlena, our waitress, had boxed up my salad for Nancy to take home. I was taking home half my chicken appetizer plus my uneaten portion of the entree. 

We joked with Marlena about sometimes forgetting the salad in the back and she said they have had to chase people down in the parking lot with their to-go boxes. Sure enough, I was almost to the gate at the pool when I realized I had not gotten my to-go food! They box it up in the kitchen rather than in the dining room which is how this happens. I had to go back in and Marlena gave me all the boxes, including the salad. Believe it or not, I might eat it myself! The salad dressing is made on-site and everyone raves about it. Even I like it, having had it on chicken in the past and when I've had the salad. I hope that lady in the kitchen never dies because she'll take that recipe with her! 

Wednesday, January 20, 2016

Trivia Fun

Tonight I went over to The Club to join some of my neighbors for Happy Hour and Trivia. Earlier in the day I'd called to ask if I would be able to use my complimentary tapas card for the buffet and the answer came back as 'yes'. On Trivia night they offer a mini-buffet with this evening's fare included sliced roast beef with mashed potatoes. So delicious! I also had a free drink card which I pressed into service. I joined company with Betty and Kathy, and some other folks came to sit with us to play the game. We were doing fairly well, ending up in a tie with another team but the leader had no tie breaker question for us. He said we'd do the tie breaker next month but I won't be there to play, due to Lent. I wish them the best!
                                         This was the amazing start to our day

It was quite chilly this morning, temps in the 30's to get things started. I felt badly for Justin and his crew going out in the elements to take care of lawns. In the summer it's beastly hot and at this time of the year, they freeze! Not that different than WI, just that we get over the cold more quickly here. It got up into the 50's by mid-day but this evening it was again bitter as I walked over to The Club. Glad to have the red coat to keep me warm. Justin has a nice heavy jacket to wear plus he can layer as needed, and also peel as needed. 

Time for me to finish up my homework for Bible study tomorrow. I look forward to seeing my friends over at Victory, including some folks who come down only for the winter. Love that we have several couples who attend besides us single ladies. A good mix of people and opinions, and bakery!

Tuesday, January 19, 2016

Another 'week' behind me

Tonight some friends joined Justin and me at Sweet Tomatoes for the annual celebration of Timmy's birthday and funeral remembrance. My friend, Nancy W. joined Terri T., Mike S., Michael, Betty, Justin and me. Judy was recovering from oral surgery so couldn't join us. I shared coupons online with everyone and no one had to pay full price, including Justin and me, as I now qualify for the senior discount, too. 

It was a good day to be with friends, starting this morning with our Monday Bible study on Tuesday. Pastor had an appointment he couldn't break on Monday so we all agreed Tuesday worked for us. After class had ended, we were slow to get up. I mentioned how everyone except Pastor and Betty were with me 15 years ago today, and the reminiscing commenced. At first I hesitated bringing it up but am happy I did. Kristi mentioned finding Timmy's service folder in some items her dad had given her from her mom's dresser drawer. And she told how she recently said to Bruce that Timmy was going to greet them in heaven while wearing a party hat. (He'd worn a birthday hat to church the Sunday after my party). Love these type of memories!  

Some ladies remembered the long, long line of cars leaving the church, heading over to the cemetery, Jackie saying it was 'longer than for the Kennedy's!'. Others talked about how long they stood in line at the visitation at the funeral home, which went more than an hour and half past the scheduled time. People just kept coming. Even two fellows we'd met in November on our Mediterranean cruise came up from Clearwater, Nick and George. Amazing....

One lady talked about how impressed she was with our families, and us, how we seemed to be handling things so well. She said it was more like we were comforting them, instead of the other way around, which really helped. That was the most awesome thing to hear, I was blown away to hear it from this unexpected source. I repeated what had been said in Pastor Prange's sermon that day, how not one person from the congregation nor from the family came to him concerned about Timothy and where he was. Not one! Kristi speculated about who we might see in heaven after they'd been at this funeral, to see how believing Christians handle something like this. That is my prayer! 

Monday, January 18, 2016

Time with Stephanie

My friend, Stephanie B., was unable to attend my birthday party earlier this month because she was visiting her mom in WI. I was sad about that, but now am glad because her mom, Jean, has returned to JAX for a couple months' visit with Stephanie and Erica. Yay!! We made plans to get together today for lunch at my choice, 4 Rivers, so Stephanie could compare her favorite bbq place with mine. We had her retirement party at Monroe's bbq which was voted JAX best. I beg to differ!

Stephanie picked me up around 11:30 and we headed to 4 Rivers, hoping to beat the rush. What I didn't take into account was the fact that it was national holiday so there was that much less activity today. The base was closed, school was closed, too, which accounted for more families than normal during lunch. We could sit and talk for a couple of hours and not be holding up the show for other diners. She was waiting to hear from her next appointment in OP, as long as she was over on this side of town, so we just talked and talked and talked. 
Stephanie, Erica, Jean, and me at my house for dinner a few years ago.

When the lady hadn't called after a certain point, we opted to come back here and talk some more. Her mom was expected to join this fun but decided to stay home, saying she wasn't feeling well, and wanting us two ladies to have our 'alone time'. I do appreciate that but also would have liked to spend some time with her, too. Before long she will be heading back to WI and we'll have missed our chance. That time goes by so quickly! Stephanie, besides buying my lunch, presented me with a Packer scarf she made with a ring on it made using Sharpie markers on a plastic cup, then baked. It makes into different shapes when it melts (the cup) and the one that became a ring worked perfectly on my scarf. Glad it's cold enough to wear a scarf these days. 

What I loved the most about our time together, besides the brisket!, was another day spent with a friend during this special week in January. I can't say it is planned this way or if it simply happens naturally, but I appreciate it all the same. Greatly! 

Sunday, January 17, 2016

It's Chili today!

Oh, what a disappointing ending to that football game last night! I am crushed! The Packer/Cardinal's game went into overtime, and the Birds won. Ugh. When flipping the coin, or supposedly flipping the coin, the ref tossed the coin which just landed on the ground without doing any maneuvers. More like he dropped it rather than flipping. When the ref did a re-flip, it went in the Cardinal's favor so they chose to receive the ball, and then scored. The Packers never got to touch the ball at all in OT. Nuts! Oh well, I guess we'll go all the way next year! 

This morning I toyed with skipping Bible study but at the last possible moment I forced myself from bed and got ready to go. I am glad I did since there were not very many people there, every body counts! After worship our group went to Chili's for lunch. The host was new and didn't know we were regulars. We explained that we usually sit at the 'big table' so he did let us sit there. We need elbow room!

To pay for my lunch I used one my birthday gift cards. I have a ways to go before catching up with Judy, though. She has over $100 worth of Chili's gift cards to spend so we can't even think of changing restaurants any time soon. Michael, too, has a collection of gift cards to spend. Are we so predictable or easy to shop for? Yes, and yes!

This afternoon I am working on getting sign-up sheets ready for our Ladies' Brunch in February and printing off invitations which I will hand out at the end of the month. I need new ink cartridges, had to replace one already, with all this printing. The printer I have now was a good price when being purchased but holy cow, does it go through the ink!

Saturday, January 16, 2016

Something cool today

These past few days I've been having a dilly of a time with Internet connectivity in my room, not because of anything I have done, as far as I know. We have signal boosters and other technical devices in the house to force that signal through and around our concrete block walls from Justin's room in the front corner, to mine in the opposite corner. Yesterday afternoon, seeing how frustrated I was getting, Justin went online and found another device to order to do a by-pass to serve my room. (Excuse me if the terminology is not exactly correct, I don't actually need to know it, only want to use it!) According to Amazon, the device would arrive on Sunday. Yay for me!

Well, this morning I awakened quite early, about 5:00 a.m. After taking my little walk, I found a Law & Order episode to listen to and back to sleep I went. About 8:30 I woke up for real, which was late for me. As I put my feet down, my phone went off. It was Terri T!!  She asked me if I saw her text message which I had not having only now gotten up. She wanted to know if I was Grumpy, and, of course, I was! Terri had looked at my FB page and saw no postings from me since lunch yesterday and was concerned that something happened to me. I told Justin that would happen, since I couldn't connect to the Internet---people would think I was dead! She needed 15 minutes to drive over from her house which proved plenty of time for me to get off the bed and to the restaurant. Like a fireman, I can be ready!

I got there first and was seated straight in from the doorway so I could see who came and went. The staff greeted me and I wished several folks a good morning, including those dining near me. Not at all obnoxious, me! Terri got there and we had a wonderful breakfast and conversation. As we ate and talked, a lady from a nearby table came over to talk to me. She apologized for interrupting us, but said I reminded her so much of her beloved mother-in-law who she missed terribly, the way I said "Good morning" and the way I looked. Aw, so sweet! She said it made her cry and she asked if she could hug me. Of course, she could!  I gave a big, squishy hug, and she wept a bit more. As she walked away, Terri asked if I knew her and I said I did not. A Day in the Life of Kim...

Two minutes later another lady was waving at me, and then came over to the table. She asked where she knew me from and I wondered if it was Sprint. The lady said, "No! I know you from church!!" Joyce, and her husband, Tim, used to go to church with Terri and me, I think leaving when our first pastor did. It was so nice to see them again, and she complimented me on my hair do. After all these years, people still stop to tell me they like my hair. 

Terri kindly treated me to breakfast, since it was "Timmy Week" and all. Very sweet of her, and so thoughtful. January is hard for both of us, as her daddy, Gordy's, anniversary is earlier in the month. I must remember to take her to Grumpy's next year when it's Gordy Week....

I got home again and Justin was still in his room, catching up on his sleep. He loves the cooler temps for his sleeping as he snuggles under his blankets. His plans for the day included making beer cheese bread and mixing up my taco queso dip which I will enjoy with the football game, plus had to sample some this afternoon. He went to the gym with Jesse and then over to his house to watch the football games, taking a couple of mini-loaves with him. I kept my slice warm on the space heater (a.k.a. best friend) pulled up to my desk. Delicious!!  
I stopped at the mailbox when I got home and found a box there from Amazon. Justin looked puzzled, not sure what he'd ordered. Sure enough, it was the signal by-pass thingy he'd ordered the day before. How did that happen---overnight??? USPS really came through with Amazon and now I have sufficient signal in my bedroom. I can watch the Packer game in here and not have to go into the 'snowy north' part of my house to watch, in order to have Internet. Terri advised Justin to file a report with ATT about our Gateway device which turns off and on intermittently throughout the day. She thinks they can replace rather than repair it, but first he needs to file a report. I guess Monday he will take care of all that. For now, I rejoice I have Internet and can once again communicate that I am alive and doing well. Go Pack, Go!!

Friday, January 15, 2016

Lunch with Miss Brenda

Yesterday I had lunch with Nancy W. at The Club for fried chicken day, and last night Justin and I had dinner with Judy and Michael at Metro Diner. I was so glad to have the invitation and we very much enjoyed our meal and the time together. 

Because of my dance card being full yesterday, I had to decline an invitation to meet Brenda for lunch. Today, though, was going to work for us to meet up. I drove over to Steak 'n Shake, arriving about the same time as she did. Brenda is such a good friend, a long time friend, and I cherish her. She tried to arrange for Jimmie to join us if he got back to the office in time but sadly, he did not make it. I would have loved to see him!  

Yesterday I got many many contacts from people extending their thoughts, prayers, and words of comfort on this anniversary. They mean more than I can express, I am so thankful for all the kind words, and the memories people shared. Brings a smile to my heart and to my face, thinking about them all!

Some of the remembrances were about Timmy wearing his heavy winter coat, even when it was warm out (just like his mama!), and how one of the teachers at Precious Lambs would sit and rock him to sleep, telling him secrets. These are the things which bring comfort, and I appreciate everyone's sharing of them.

Thursday, January 14, 2016

A wonderful sentiment

Today I had lunch with my friend, Nancy W., at The Club. It was fried chicken day so we HAD to partake of the mini-buffet. I was glad to have something planned for part of my day, besides Bible study. She presented me with a gift, saying she simply could not hang it back on the rack after seeing. It's a black top, 3/4 length sleeves, with gold figures on the front. The best part is the flared bottom, which matches mine! What a nice thought for her to get that for me! 

Later this afternoon when I was chatting online with Linda, Nancy forwarded a poem she found for me---perfect for the day I am acknowledging today. It speaks for itself and I am thankful for her thoughtfulness in sending it to me: 

Wednesday, January 13, 2016

Just a few remembrances

Tonight I changed my Facebook profile picture to one of Timmy sitting in the car, on the seat rather than in his car seat. We were crowding people in, his uncle and auntie from WI were visiting and it was tight with his big seat in the car. Obviously Timmy felt 'put out' or funny about not being in his seat plus was a bit intimidated by his uncle, Harvey. He had sneezed a giant sneeze and scared Timmy, making him cry. The rest of us were accustomed to his big sneezes but it startled little Timmy. 
After I posted the photo, I started hearing from folks. One lady was his teacher at Precious Lambs and would take the time to soothe him and rock Timmy to sleep in the afternoons. She told me that besides her husband, Timmy was the only one she told about being pregnant and he was excited for her. I never knew this story and it warmed my heart. Amanda said it was their little secret!  

Another lady, Robin C., who was at my birthday party a couple weeks ago, used to work at Hallmark before working for Rosewood. She told me the story of being swamped by people in our neighborhood coming in for sympathy cards. She wondered then what was going on, and later found out. Robin said we were connected even before she knew me!  

Another lady who sent a message was the branch manager of the bank we used for our business and personal banking. She knew Timmy before he was born! And knew him after as he went everywhere I went. He was quite popular with the ladies. In that same branch was a teller named Melody. She attended the visitation for Timmy and later would tell me how her daughter and she would swing by the cemetery periodically to visit his grave. Do you know how special that makes me feel?
These photos make Timmy look so solemn but he was a joyful little guy overall. 

Today on Facebook I read how a mom was practicing the Lord's Prayer with her little son, thinking he wasn't getting anything out of it. Later, when the dad got home, he was asked what he learned that day. The seemingly too busy little guy reported God was his father, lived in heaven, and loved him. Mom and Dad were stunned! When we'd put the boys to bed, Justin being 9 years older than Timmy, we'd ask which prayer we should pray that night. Among the choices were singing "Now the Light Has Gone Away", the Now I Lay Me Down to Sleep which sometimes went on and on with people to bless, and the one Timmy called "The Big One"---the Lord's Prayer.  My sister donated an art piece with The Big One on a plaque attached to the Lord's Prayer, in his memory. That prayer is one of the first things the students at Precious Lambs learn every year. 

In both photos above, Timmy is wearing outfits made by his Grandma K. So darn cute!

Friday, January 8, 2016

More birthday celebrations

Today I had the joy and privilege of having a birthday lunch with my friend, Rick and Fran, who were not able to attend my party. Originally planned for the 4th, we had to reschedule because The Club was closed for an annual cleaning following Christmas and New Year. Having it today allowed for Rick to join Fran and me, he at last getting a day off!  
Fran and I both ordered the special of the day---beef pot pie, made while we waited. It looks like a giant hamburger but it's the crust pouring over the edges of the bowl. And it was piping hot!
Rick ordered something else that came with a house salad and Angelica is offering him some ground pepper to top it off.
Miss Fran was supposed to be coming in her tennis gear so I was surprised to see her dressed in 'regular' clothes. They got rained out so no tennis game before lunch for her. Look at the size of that pot pie!
Rick took a picture of us together while we waited for our dessert. The waitress offered us the standard fare for dessert, none of which appealed to us, but when I asked if they had any frozen choices, she came back with that list. We three had a scoop of berry gelato, Fran and Rick sharing theirs. It was just right after that very hot pot pie!!

Thursday, January 7, 2016

RIP laptop

Oh, how I hope I don't make too many boo boos in my typing tonight!!  I have had to resort to using the nice iPad Mini that Justin gave me for posting because it seems my little laptop has quit. Not entirely DOA but for some reason it will not connect to the Internet any longer. All day long it was doing this, which was VERY frustrating!!  Because it's cold over by the windows where my desk is located, I am more comfortable on the bed. I am most grateful for the Ipad, please understand this, but I am so much more comfortable with my laptop. 
My IT guy, Justin, has told me the rule of thumb for computer life is approximately one year for each $100 spent on it. My research shows me this one, which was already a refurbished machine, is about three and half years old, so it's right there to be fading. Justin bought me a snap-on keyboard for this iPad to make typing much easier. There are some features on the iPad which I cannot do but that might be a training issue. What I might be able to do now is print using blue-tooth from my iPad which for some odd reason I can't do from the laptop. According to Justin's tech experts, it's a crap shoot as to whether or not that feature will work or not. In this case, the answer was no. Perhaps it will be yes from the iPad, a newer device. 

This morning when I went to Bible study at Victory, I arrived in the parking lot to find Pastor H. kneeling next to a car, changing the tire. He was wearing a suit and didn't get a speck of dirt on himself, amazingly. Rita had given him a cloth shopping bag to kneel on to protect his slacks. Later I learned the car belonged to a mom of a student in the pre-k. She was glad for the help since her husband is out of town at this time. Victory is a full-service church, that's for sure!

In other news, my hometown is all over the news, nationally, after being featured on a so-called documentary. A convicted murderer from over a decade ago is painted with a brush which makes the case look as though he is innocent. I know from family and friends that the County is tired of this case, and I am sure the family of the murdered young woman is just sick about this sympathetic look at this salacious case. They have my sympathies, as does the County and the officials yet in office. Reportedly some of them have had death threats and such after folks have seen the series on NetFlix, which is incredible and awful. I am usually proud of my hometown and hate to see it being maligned on a national level. Hope it is short-lived. 

p.s.  As of January 8th, the little laptop is alive and kickin', able to once again connect to the Internet! It's a blessed day!!! 

From the Quakers

Live beneath your means. 
Return everything you borrow. 
Stop blaming other people. 
Admit it when you make a mistake. 
Give clothes not worn in 3 years to charity. 
Do something nice and try not to get caught. 
Listen more talk less. 
Every day take a 30 minute walk. 
Strive for excellence, not perfection. 
Be on time.
Don't make excuses. 
Don't argue. 
Get organized. Be kind to people. 
Be kind to unkind people. 
Let someone go ahead of you in line. 
Take time to be alone. 
Reread your favorite book. 
Cultivate good manners. 
Be humble. 
Realize and accept that life isn't fair. 
Know when to keep your mouth shut. 
Go an entire day without criticizing anyone. 
Learn from the past. 
Plan for the future. 
Live in the present. 
Don't sweat the small stuff. 
It's all small stuff.

-from a Quaker newsletter

Wednesday, January 6, 2016

Epiphany today

It seems my electronics have recovered from whatever it was vexing them much of yesterday. Can't help but think it was weather/wind related. Or they just needed a good rest, perhaps. Whatever the case, I am so glad we are up and running here again. Today is the day of Epiphany, remembering when the Magi traveled from the East to see the Christ-child. It's a special day in the church year and it's also a special day for my sister, Kerry. Her birthday!!!  
Kerry posed with a cut out of Aaron Rodgers at Festival

The other day Mom asked me for a picture of Justin and Dustin together. Oh, oh! I realized I had not taken any photos of our guests but thankfully my friend, Terri, had. She sent me a couple shots taken at Chili's when we went after church on Sunday. Lori accused me of milking my birthday but I was not the one who informed our waitress that I had just celebrated. And yes, I will milk this landmark birthday, perhaps for the entire year!  

I posted this photo of Lori and me as my profile picture on Facebook today. 

Poor Justin got soaked through and through today out in the nasty weather. He sent me a message early in his day to report that his so-called weather resistant jacket has failed him. It lost its super powers. I wonder if there is a way to restore its qualities. A sporting goods store might have what is needed. Certainly I feel badly for them having to work in this weather. Being that it is cool out, in the low 50's,  makes it that much more miserable for working outdoors. 

I was horrified to see/hear my hometown on The Five tonight. NetFlix has put out a so-called documentary from the view of the convicted murderer. The series apparently makes it look like a set-up or at the very least, a poorly put together case. The nation is abuzz about the series, and some are putting out a petition to free the convicted killer who basically butchered a young woman and burned her body in a fire pit. I don't know how or even why the county sheriff's department could pull something off like that and not be found out, but it brings great shame and embarrassment to my home county and the area. I am so not proud of some of the people interviewed or featured, not the cream of the crop of Manitowocians. I feel so badly for the young lady's family, having to relive the horror of that whole terrible mess. Hope it blows over quickly.