Whoo hoo! What a night!

At some point last night my laptop quit talking to me, and this a.m. I found out they went off the air at 1:00 a.m. So, I missed about an hour of the live program watching all the races around the nation, keeping track of the seats won or lost, gubernatorial victories or losses, and such. The TV stayed on all night, as always, but I had switched over to my mindles

s viewing around midnight. My guess is that sleep came not too long after that, with the sound of rain on my windows. This a.m. brought news that the governor's race in FL was not yet determined (surprise surprise) and as of this writing, is still in the works. (As of 10:36 a.m. Scott is the winner!!!)

Yesterday morning I went to vote, was #135 after being in line

a short time. Love standing in line to vote!! When it was time to sign my name with the magnetic pen, I complained to the poll worker that I did not like how it came out so he let me do it again. He still had my license in his hand when I expressed to him how particular I am about my writing, and he said he could tell from my license. Filling in the dots on the ballot was not as neatly done since folks were waiting to vote so h

opefully there was no grade for that!

Originally I had planned to go to the store after voting but went straight home instead. Soda was already purchased and on the floor in my car and the fridge held enough nourishment to hold me for the day. So, once in, I stayed in.

While watching and listening to the radio, TV, and Internet, I also worked on the condo newsletter and got that e-mailed off. For those who cannot open it or have no Internet (poor Gus!), I do print off some hard copies. For an hour and a half I was on the phone with my sis-in-law in Manitowoc, catching up on family news and such. Her son, JR, is heading to Afghanistan at some point, but had just been ‘ho

me’ for a couple weeks on leave.

Also spent some time on the phone with my friend, Carol, as she drove to her doctor appointment. We are kicking around the thought of attending the National WELS Worship Conference next summer in

MN but there are so many other things to consider as well. IF I did go to that Conference, (family, it is a big IF) it would put me in the right area to help my sister celebrate her 60^th birthday. I am just sayin’…..Lori had mentioned perhaps going to a Shakespeare play where my friend, Judy R., serves as an usher. Hmmm….seems like things are falling somewhat into place for that! So, this put me on the telephone for a length of time, in b

etween which I washed my sheets and dried them, plus another load washed and dried. I even made my bed without any problem, in less than 5 minutes, because I had something in the ‘wave for that length of time and finished the bed making before the ‘ding ding ding’ went off! Last time I changed my bed, I wrenched my back transferring the sheets from the washer to the dryer but this time, all went well.

Starting at 7:00 pm then I tuned into my Internet radio show to ‘watch’ the return tracking while having Fox News on TV. It was difficult to read the results across the bottom of the screen from my desk, though, so eventually I moved over to the bed so I could more successfully view it all. Which brings me to where I began this posting….Sadly, I still find myself in Corrinne Brown’s district, which snakes it way up one side of the river and down the other, all ‘blue’ voters. I have not heard how the redistrict

ing referendum went so if it happens, I might be moved at some point to a district more representative. At one point, Mike C. called to say it looked like she had lost but when I checked on it, she was a

head by nearly 50%. Rats!

Here is the most recent photo of Angelo, getting ready to go see the doctor this morning. It is hard to remember how cold it is up there….

Justin and I are planning to have lunch together today as he is working not too far from the Island and I have errands to run up that way. I am sure he is about ready to bust after the elections. My time will have to be well spent these next few days in putting together the program for the Ladies’ Advent Service, choosing the hymns, and making other arrangements. Janet has kindly agreed to play the keyboard for us and I must get her the list of hymns so she can practice ahead of time. Carol asked me to help work on something requiring editorial skills but this comes first. Then I must order my Advent card calendars for the Sunday school kids that I send every year. Only need about 25 this year, sad to report, that is only how many we have from infant to 8^th grade. The kids look forward to getting the calendars and I enjoy sending them, Win-Win, again!

Please forgive my jumping around words, something happened with the cut/paste thing and inserting Angelo's photo. Still working out the bugs with this!

A new baby picture

Can you stand it??? I mean, really, how cute is this baby??!!?? Here is Angelo at two weeks old, now home with his mama, papa, Gabe and Manny. He had a bit of troubles getting used to the quiet in his house, after all the commotion he had grown accustomed to in the NICU. Lisa today ordered a white noise machine similar to the one he heard in the NICU in her attempts to help him get more comfortable. Last night she used his swing which makes lovely noise like a rain forest even when he is not swinging. I think that is the sound which Carol plays during my massages....ahhh.....Welcome Home, Angelo!!!

Election Eve

Is today nearly over? It seems I was just waking up and much too early at that. Linda contacted me via Facebook chat, wondering what I was doing up so early. It just happened and I opted to not fight it. At first I had some troubles going to sleep after some of the conversation that took place later in the evening on the sundeck, regarding more troubles resulting from the water leak over a month ago. I should know better than to have these conversations, especially in the evening, because it just gets me upset. Nothing I can say or do could have or will change it, the incident happened due to no one’s fault and that’s it! But, there is still much to be done in order to set people’s homes back to rights, there is no getting around that. So, slow to getting to sleep and early to wake up, that’s me!

The other morning, Sunday, I woke the first time at 6:30 a.m., went for a little walk, and then went back to bed until just after 8:00 a.m. During that sleep, I had a dream where I got to see Timmy again. This time I was helping him to get ready for school, and putting shorts on him, but he was already wearing about four pairs. He was quite gleeful about the whole thing, found it amusing that he was wearing so many pairs. Michael, who used to work for us, and remains my friend, was in the dream, and seemed to be the guy in charge of Timmy’s care. I asked Michael when Timmy had last had a bath (or change of clothes!) and he did not know, so I found a bathroom to run a tub of water for a bath. Of course, water was leaking out of a vent in the ceiling, so I yelled for help and went in search of the source. Whatever happened to Timmy and his bath, I do not know. But, I was sort of exploring what I took to be my own house, and yet, unfamiliar. The rooms were clean and I never did discover the source of the leak. That part was frustrating, but seeing my happy-go-lucky Timmy again was great.

The other great thing is that Lisa was able to take Angelo home to Sheboygan today, stopping first at Grandma K’s. Mom said he is a keeper but she did not handle him or anything for fear of getting germs on him. Angelo is still rather delicate, as you might expect for only 2 weeks old. It is just good news that he was doing well enough to be released and that their family will all be together under one roof again. The boys will sure welcome the settling back into routine after two weeks of being cared for by others while Mom and Dad tended to Angelo. They were planning to go trick or treating in Manty last night but do not know if that happened or not.

Today was Bible study, finishing our study of worldviews, the ‘isms’ folks believe in. Next week we are delving into Jonah, a less in-depth study than this one. For lunch, Judy C. and I shared the prime rib sandwich at Longhorn, using a coupon provided by Jackie. Many of the ladies changed up their orders today, somewhat throwing the waitress a curve-ball, since she knows pretty much what we order! In the afternoon, I took a bit of a rest but missed part of my radio program. Guess I needed the nap more! Not too long, though, so my night’s rest will not be affected. On the way to Ladies’ Group I stopped at the gas station to fill up. Hoping there was an ATM inside, I went snooping but did not see one. Later I remembered it was outside on the front of the building instead of inside. But, since I was there, I bought some soda, which the nice clerk carried to the car for me, without my even asking! I carried my little bag of individual sodas while she did the heavy lifting. Love good customer service!

Since I did not get any cash, though, I had nothing to put in the offering baskets at Ladies’ Group. Guess I can catch up next time. This weekend and its offering opportunities took my cash, plus I bought a CD at the Conference. Usually I get my cash at the grocery store but I have not been there in some time. Must be due for another trip soon, perhaps after voting tomorrow. Cannot wait to go and cast my ballot. The day will be spent monitoring the radio, TV, and Internet for returns and reports, etc. I have been invited to attend a Tea Party function downtown but am not sure I want to do that, might wish to watch the returns from home. We shall see!

“If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.” 2 Chronicles 7:14

Angelo on Reformation Day

Lisa sent this photo tonight---Angelo without any tubes, wires, or monitors. This is the second time Angelo has been freed of his medical equipment so our hopes and prayers are that he can stay free of them. He looks downright gleeful, does he not? Lisa is staying overnight with him and will try feeding him 'her way' tonight. I pray that goes well for her, and for him!

What a weekend!

Does Friday count as the weekend? I would say it does, or it should, anyway. When I got home last night, I went immediately to bed because I was so tired, which is why I did not post to the blog before going to sleep. We did not come straight home after leaving Palm Coast, we had to stop at church as all of us had something to take care of there. Carol was changing the banners and altar paraments, Judy set up the Fellowship Hall for refreshments, and I had to vacuum. It got a lick and a promise cleaning because I was so tired and did not want anyone to have to wait for me. Carol was the last one done but I waited for her to finish in the chancel area before vacuuming up there. It sure felt good to get home and reclining on my bed, since I had had a short night's sleep on Friday. I woke this a.m. the first time at 6:30 but opted to stay asleep until just after 8:00. Not late for church, either!

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On Friday night I touched on some of the highlights of the School of Worship Enrichment, which was an absolutely fantastic event. WELS presenters introduced some music outside of our normal comfort zone but somehow it seemed to be okay. In the right time, place, and setting, and with proper instruction and excellence, it might be okay. After the opening service of Morning Praise, we were asked to offer our critique or comments regarding how some of the pieces were performed or presented. The "Come, Oh Come" was accompanied on the piano with the addition of soft bongos and a bit of tamborine, I think. Personally, I did not find it offensive, and could 'tolerate' the additional instruments but did mention to the moderator that I have sung this at my own church and at my home church without the added instruments, and found it equally edifying. He acknowledged that, the other instruments add punctuation to an already sound proclamation of faith.

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Friday night we closed with The Compline, I believe my first time experiencing this end-of-the-day vesper service and that was also lovely. The pianists really had no mercy on the keyboard of the baby grand piano, and I made the comment later that I felt sorry for the keys, but glad for me! Man, those guys really made the keys sing, changing up the dynamics, adding interesting preludes to the hymns and sometimes, letting us a sing all or part of a stanza without them playing at all!

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The lectures were valuable, our favorite being a study on the liturgical year and how to best recognize special Sundays and such. The pastor, Christie, offered many suggestions and resources to use, how to select the appropriate choral music and pre/post service music, use of banners and paraments. Always the focus on things being the very best we can offer. Later in the day we had break-out sessions where we could kick things around a bit, with a member of the SoWE team coming to talk with us. It was a bit complicated since it seems that the organizers or whoever were not aware our congregation was coming so allowances for us were not available. At times there were six of us representing GS, but always, at least the three of us. Suzanne had to leave early, much to her chagrin, to take her kids to a party at Rachel's house. Her hubby had had the kids most of the day on Friday and the same on Saturday so she had to take them to this party. John was busy watching the Gator/Bull Dog football game anyway, with Michael, his brother. She really missed alot in the afternoon, not the least of which was the closing Reformation service, complete with procession, where Pastor Huebner carried in the brass cross during the 3rd stanza of "A Mighty Fortress". They explained that traditionally this stanza is read by the congregation instead of singing it, to contemplate the words. The pianist, Pastor Christie, played a dramatic dirge-style variation of the hymn, but with excitement, as Carol tried to explain to someone else today. An exciting dirge, go figure! But that nailed it. The effect was significant, dramatic but completely in keeping with excellence and decency in worship. We can do this!

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Another thing we discussed ad nauseum (I am so good at that!) was the value of education and instruction, particularly when introducing something new or variant to the service. Much of what we studied in "Come Worship Christ" was referenced in the sessions, including this study by name, for those who have not seen it. Years ago, when Pete was still at our church, I did the Bible study from start to finish but so far at GS since then, I have yet to get through the entire thing. The Monday study was interrupted by the move from trailer to building and losing the videos thereof, and now again, using the 'student version' of this same study, in an abbreviated format. Now we are moving on to studying Luther and the Confessions which will be good, solid theology. At least it was today.

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The Greeters were not in place today so I stood in, as is my custom. Saw my old friend, Larry Reiter, dropped off by his wife. He had come to GS a couple years ago for the first time, having sailed his boat to Green Cove from VA, with his nephew as his first mate. It turned out his family and he spent time in Manitowoc County where his dad served as pastor. At MLHS, I went to school with his sisters, Carol, my class, and Connie, a few years younger than me. I had sent Carol a birthday greeting today before going to church so how cool is that?!? Anna NM came to church today after having to say farewell to family who had been visiting from Australia for two weeks. On Facebook she mentioned how sad she was so I gave an extra hug to her because I know how she feels. Anna told me she studied up on her Luther history for today, as a refresher. What a grand idea!

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After last night's closing service, a hard act to follow, I am soon heading to Victory for our joint service with Gainesville, Keystone Heights, GS, and our host congregation. I am looking forward to seeing Jennifer Lee and her mom, as Jen is newly returned from serving as a nurse in Africa for one of our missions. How I do love seeing my Facebook friends in the flesh now and again!

A few quick lines

I should be sleeping or trying to, but I am so wound up yet from the School of Worship Enrichment event I attended today and will attend tomorrow. So many good things, great subject matter, and a lovely closing service. One of the best parts of the day was seeing some former members of First German who are now living in New Port Ritchey, the Laurin's. They sang for Lisa's wedding 10 years ago, as did I, and today we sang together again, in the congregation. My friend, Jennifer, from Merritt Island was taking part in the SoWE event so I got to see her again, plus Bonnie formerly from Victory, and later her hubby, Tim. I already knew the pastor at the host church ("You know everybody!" Suzanne complained...) but the best of all was seeing and talking with Aunt Mary, part of the team presenting the program. She is the auntie of 'our' friend, Pete Prange, and is leading the choir and offering her expertise regarding music and orchestration, etc. We had a great visit---Carol, Suzanne, Judy C., and me, plus Bonnie---during our supper.

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It was a bit awkward when we arrived this morning, as it seemed no one from the SoWE knew we were coming. Now how did THAT happen? When it was break-out session time, the leaders moved folks around and found a group for us to meld with, but this was after we had to complete congregational surveys and then quickly tabulate the data. My job was to record the comments and sort them, which took longer so I was the last to the group. But, at least we got them done! Since Brian came a bit later, we ended up having six people from our congregation, a decent representation, in my opinion. It really would have been nice to have fully participated in the program, but that's the way it goes....

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During breaks in the presentation, I had a chance to catch up the Laurin's on Lisa's news with the baby (they didn't know about Angelo yet) and showed them pictures. Mike went outside and called his son about this, and Brandon knew all about the baby and such, but just had not told his dad and mom. Funny! That's what happens when you do not have Facebook access....Jody used to be in the choir with Lynn and Linda before moving to Florida and Mike's parents and siblings remain at FG, so they keep up with things back home. Except about Lisa and the baby!

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Inside the church and narthex area it was so terribly cold that many of us (not only me) were shivering. Now I know for tomorrow to dress more warmly and have a heavier wrap along. One of the presenters is from a church in OH and had a mop towel with him to wipe his face and neck. Right off the bat he explained that it is about 30 degrees warmer here than where he came from so we must overlook his sweating. Even as we sat and enjoyed our supper, we were shaking from the cold, but that did not prevent Mary from having a couple 'cold ones' with her pizza. None of us enjoyed a brewsky but if there had been some rum or something, I might have indulged. Carol was the driver so she could not have had anything.

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Now I will make an attempt at going to sleep so I can wake up early enough for our departure time of 7:00 a.m. The Morning Praise service begins at 8:30 so we want to make sure we are on time and not lost, like we were this a.m. My mapquest directions took us to the pastor's house instead of church....guess that is not up to date. Now that we know where we are going, it should be a breeze!

Back on track

Here is a photo of Angelo, taken this late afternoon, with no tubes or wires connected to him, just sporting a lovely knit cap!

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Everyday seems more and more like the days I remember from before The Flood. Today was one of those for me, and what a welcome relief it was to feel this way! My day began with getting up and ready for Bible class at Victory, our new study focusing on trials and tribulations in our lives and what we can learn from them. Right up my alley. We had only a handful of people again for class as one couple remains on vacation in MI and WI, one lady filling in for the preschool, and Justin absent. Not sure where he was but am guessing he is still moving his father into the new house. Four of us ladies went to lunch at Beef O’Brady’s which was quite nice. I ordered the hamburger that was on special without realizing it was a half pound patty. It was huge! Before I could do anything with it, I had to saw the burger in half or I would not have been able to pick it up. Half was only what I could manage to eat and some of the fries. Next thing you know, I will be ordering eggs and toast or a slice of pie only, like my grandma did!

On the ride home I called Mom, as I knew she would be back from church where she worked on the newsletter. We did not talk long, though, as she waiting for a phone call from Lisa, who was going to borrow her car to go to Green Bay to see the baby. We did get some chance to talk before I let her go to free up the phone line. Lisa and Noah are going to spend the night in Green Bay at a house similar to a Ronald McDonald House, while their boys are staying overnight with friends in Sheboygan. Everyone will be so glad to have things settled down, after Angelo gets to come home with them. Lisa is trying to spend special snuggle time with each of them at bedtime, so they won’t feel neglected. She needs it, too!

So, anyway, I no sooner got home than I had to leave again for my grooming appointment. Barb could get me in for a haircut this late afternoon, which was badly needed. When I pulled in the parking lot, I noticed a familiar pick-up truck there, so I went into Whitey’s in search of my long, lost friend, Michael Jackson! There he was, on the outside deck, finishing his lunch. His mouth hung open when he saw me coming toward him and, in a case of mistaken identity, he said, “Well, Jesus Christ, how are you?” Immediately I told him I was Kim but it was an honest mistake. He was so surprised to see me, and I told him that Penny was my friend, whose lawn he now cares for. Small world! But I had to rush in to get my hair cut so could not visit very long. How fun it was to see him again after about three years or so.

After my cut, I went back home to take my rest while watching my radio show. Judy J. called to set up our long awaited dinner date, which was planned for Pompeii Oven right across Hwy. 17. You will not believe what time she was picking me up, though-----5:15!!! Now, back in the Bible study on Tuesday days, we would meet for dinner at that time and then go to class which was at 7:00 pm. But there was no reason why we had to eat so early tonight. Oh well, it was fine. While we sat there chatting and waiting for our food, my neighbor, Pat, and her friend, Nathan, came in to thank me for the Gator bracelet I gave her. This is a HUGE weekend in Jacksonville with the big Florida/Georgia football game going on. Pat was all decked out in her Gator gear, head to toe, and wrist, with her new bracelet. Glad she liked it and nice that she stopped by to thank me in person!

Judy loved her spaghetti and meatballs while I ate this ginormous Stromboli, big enough for three meals. Another giant-sized portion today. Usually we like to go to Aron’s for this dinner but thought we’d try the Pompeii for a switch. Now I have so many leftovers and I will be away much of the weekend. At first I was going to drive to Palm Coast by myself and stay the night with Bonnie for the Union meeting and worship conference. Then I found out some others are going, so I am hitching a ride with them and going forth and back as a passenger. We all agreed on the length of our stay each day so I should not need to have access to my car. I sure don’t want to miss anything, especially the Reformation service on Saturday evening!

Somehow I failed to mention a lovely visit I had with Saban, my “Turkish friend” who was busily moving my downstairs neighbors out of their soon to be repaired home. He came upstairs and took the quick tour, saw his gift to me, the flag, and admired the view. Saban said he wanted to bring his wife over here for breakfast someday and enjoy looking out over the river. Of course, I would make them breakfast but he said, “I suppose you make for us bacon and sausage and ham we cannot eat…” but I told him I would make whatever he wanted me to make. Saban asked me if I had been back to Turkey recently and I told him I had not been since 2007. It was after that trip that he came here to move Justin out and then brought me a flag to go with my Greek stuff. He told me if I ever want to go back over there, I could use his condo in Izmit. I offered him the use of mine here if he wanted it, so we are even! I love it that he offered it to me, even if I never go over there again, it’s the thought that counts!