The search is on!

Only moments ago I ‘hung up’ with Linda J. with whom I was chatting via Facebook. I am in search of an ‘old’ Catechism from my school days. She said she has a rather beat up one at home, matching the description of the cover I gave her. When she has a moment, Linda is going to get me the publishing information and so on in order for me to find one on-line somewhere.

In checking e-Bay, there sure are a lot of catechisms out there, but I am not sure if they are the one I am looking for, especially if there is no photo provided. I believe it was issued in the 1940’s, using the King James Version, of course, and then was revised some years later, with ‘updates’. My friend, Betty S., loaned me her daughter’s catechism which was published by Concordia Publishing House. The wording on the explanations is a bit different than I learned, or remember!, and this edition was released in 1965 with the words “Slightly revised” listed with the date. The search is on!

It is early yet and already I have been outside. Connie called from downstairs, wondering if I was going to Bible study this a.m. Don’t do that to me!!! All of a sudden I thought the days were mixed up or something, but, no, it is only Wednesday. What she actually wanted was for me to move my car so she can trim the trees and bushes in front of my car. Talk about a sweat breaking out for a moment!

The weather is relatively pleasant outside, and glorious inside, sitting here in the sun. Every year I think about getting a thermometer for my room but Justin seems to think it would not be a good idea for me to have one. That means I should, in my opinion! Perhaps he is of the opinion that he does not want to know how insufferably hot it gets in my room!

Monday evening was Ladies’ Group at church. The traffic was already getting to seem like Christmas, it takes on a certain ‘aire’ along the route I follow. Others mentioned, too, how ridiculous it was getting there, coming from every direction. And it’s not even Veteran’ Day yet! At least I allowed enough time and got there with three minutes to spare, walking in with the President and the VP. Not bad!

Both Pastor and our Elder were tied up in a meeting, therefore, were not available for us, resulting in our meeting just zooming along. Many plans for future events were either confirmed or arranged. I presented the upcoming social outings in the works, and the names of the new officers put into place. For the upcoming year, I will be known as the Queen of Ladies’ Group or Madam President. Twila really is not up to it, besides being horribly busy with her rentals, her health is not what it should be. It is my honor to relieve her of this job, though there really is not all that much to it besides the monthly meetings.

The first group event we have coming up is the Clay County Christmas production at Thrasher-Horne Center. I have gone every year since it began and watched it get better and better. The show features local talents including choruses, the Clay County Band, theatrical groups from schools, and culminates with the reading of Luke 2 by a pastor. As he reads and my upstairs neighbor, Donna, plays her flute in the background, a live nativity is acted out on stage. Another of my neighbors, Judee, has appeared in previous years as part of the nativity, and likely will again this year. Thus far only three people have signed up to go and I have the cut-off date of Nov. 15 in order for us to get decent seating. I hope we can at least have a half dozen folks who wish to join me for this event!

Sunshine in my life

In many forms, I had sunshine in my life today, not the least of which was the one shining on my desk and me this morning. It’s been several days without sunshine and it was greatly missed.

The other sunshine enjoyed was my visit to see my friends at Great Hang Ups. When I got to the shop, there were clients at the counter buying a mess of pottery made by Julia and her husband. The lady was buying ‘locally’ for Christmas, which is something many are pushing toward. I did a bit of shopping there, too, while I was at it!

Dee was just about to leave to pick up lunch and asked me to ride with her as she wanted to talk. We went to her car, removed a few pieces of paper from the passenger seat, and I reached to move a satchel on the floor to put my purse down. Oh my goodness! Under the bag was a tipped over bottle of gesso, soaking her car mat, the computer bag, and even got on my purse. I did not realize my purse had gesso on it at first and set it on the leather seat---yikes!

Gesso got everywhere, but fortunately it is water soluble. Dee quickly went back into the shop to get toweling and cleaner, with me hot on her heels. I was not all that concerned about my purse as it is tough looking already but was hoping her mat and computer bag would come clean. She hosed off the mat behind the store and used wipers to clean almost all the gesso off our stuff. It looks like shoe polish, used to prep canvas for painting. I hate when that happens!!!

Eventually I did get over to Wal*Mart for my movie, “Atlas Shrugged” which came out today on DVD. It was not in the display at the front of the store with the other new releases so I had to meander to the back where the electronics are sold. On Facebook I had joked that I would have to stand in line for the movie, but I took the very last copy of “Atlas Shrugged” from the display. I also ventured over to the grocery department while doing some people watching---oh my! I got a case of soda and Uncle Ben’s brown rice (in the mood for brown rice lately!), and a package of rolls.

Once home I rested a bit before leaving for Trivia. What fun we had tonight! Anne H. joined us and added her wisdom to the game. We came very close to coming in at least in 3^rd place, but two teams tied for 2^nd which bumped us out of contention for the final. We got along okay without Justin though he certainly would have known who the god was who shot Achilles in the heel! Cupid is NOT the right answer…Justin was helping his father and step-mother do something with their wedding pictures and make other preparations for a follow-up reception this weekend. Perhaps I will get to see him on Thursday for Bible study instead!

It stinks to be me sometimes!

Saturday was a wretched day weather-wise, not fit for man nor beast nor woman. The air show was taking place despite the cold, damp atmosphere, with wind gusts around 20 mph. In reading the reports on-line, many people were not hardy enough to tough it out until the Blue Angels made their appearance but those who did really got a good show. The bright blue planes showed up nicely against the grey skies, and the cloud cover kept the noise close to the ground for added thunder. I enjoyed what I could from my room, snuggled in with fuzzy slippers, space heater, and my electric heat pad. Oh, and the crocheted blanket from Lynn which is draped on the end of my bed. Nice!

My friend, Ed, and his granddaughter at the air show Saturday

When it came to be dinner time, I had no intention of venturing outside to get my meal. On Facebook, I posted the suggestions of ordering pizza for dinner, or Chinese, or putting something in the oven to warm the house. Ideas weighed heavily in favor of Chinese but I dug around in the freezer to find something to bake along with some potatoes. The ham bone still had plenty of meat on it, so into the oven it went. When I came back to the computer, my neighbor had sent a chat asking if I was here. I wrote back that I was and asked what he wanted. No sooner did I hit SEND but my doorbell was ringing. There stood Randy, telling me to shut off my oven and come to his place for duck l’orange. His hobby is watching college football and placing bets on it but he still had time to cook. I asked him who in the world has duck l’orange on hand, and he told me he just likes to cook and likes to eat.

I turned my oven down, not off, disobeying a direct order, put on shoes instead of my slippers and did, in fact, have to venture outside to go up to his place. Sure enough, there were three screens of football going on, like in a sports bar! I got settled on the sofa and he offered me a throw to keep myself warm while he prepared the duck. I only hoped I would like it, since I am bit of a picky eater but it turned out to be quite tasty, and nicely crisped. We watched about six games between the three TVs and chatted. Not entire games for me but way more college ball than I had ever seen before. He did win some money and was ahead for the season. I don’t know how it went for the professional teams Sunday. He did think the Packers would solidly trounce the Chargers, and I know that game ended up to be a whole lot closer than anticipated.

Have I mentioned lately how nice my neighbors are?

It's a golden Jerusalem day!

My head is yet pounding from crying and that was nearly 10 hours ago! Perhaps it is from trying to hold it in that made my brain hurt. It was “All Saints Day” Sunday at Victory, and since I get a sneak peek at the service folder on Thursday, knew it was going to be a wonderful service. Pastor H. also sends out a ‘tease’ e-mail on Friday which gives a preview of what the sermon theme will be and so on.

When Pastor greeted me at the door, he thanked me for coming and I told him I came to celebrate. Immediately he answered, “Yes, All Saints Day.” Justin was going to church this week as there was no home football game to keep him away. I did not tell him about the closing hymn being “Jerusalem, the Golden” but I should have, since he would have liked for his friend, Sarah, to be there to hear it sung.

The other hymn sung, broken up into various parts of the service was “For All the Saints”---yes, one of my funeral hymns. Justin likes it, too, and I asked him if he would mind very much singing it at my service. Of course, he said he would not mind at all. He also asked me if I had asked Rachel to play for the service but I told him Robbie is planning to do so, and in fact, is already practicing.

Pastor’s sermon was wonderful, with the theme, “You’re just like your Father”. He imagined the angels in heaven, when they greet us, will say this to us---now in perfect glory with the Lord. It is extremely difficult for me to hear or read for myself the portion of Revelation describing the scene around the throne, which culminates with “and He shall wipe every tear from your eye…” It gets me every time.

Before leaving for church, I listened to “Jersusalem…” a couple times to try and get it out of my system beforehand but it was no use. After worship, several people came up to me with hugs and Audrey told me that when she saw the hymn listed in the folder she said a prayer for me. (Last week at GS she joined us around the piano as Robbie and Sterling played it as the choir sang)“…what radiancy of glory, what bliss beyond compare…” Poor Justin! He is already moved by this hymn and then to have his sobbing mama next to him, standing, no less, well……like mother, like son! “You’re just like your mother” and that’s a good thing!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0th-KRASl20&feature=related

Ponderings on a Saturday

This was going to be titled "Ponderings on a Saturday morning" but it is now afternoon. The outdoors appear extremely stormy, cold and overcast, windy, complete with white caps on the river. Nope, staying in today, there is no reason to subject myself to such nastiness! Even though I was thinking how good a margarita would taste today, staying in the house and plugging in my space heater it a good alternative.

Late morning I heard what is referred to as “the sound of freedom” over the river and the city, an air show taking place at NAS JAX. This afternoon will be the Blue Angels, and I only hope they are visible against the grey skies. At least we will be able to hear them. When I was in the kitchen a few moments ago, I heard the sound of bagpipes being played for a wedding next door. I feel badly for the wedding couple, having so gloomy a day as theirs. Many boaters, not fearing or being annoyed by the weather, are making their way toward the base.

As I write, I am watching a movie from the 1930’s which takes place along the Amalfi Coast. Last night when speaking with a Victory member, Ellen, I got a hankering again for traveling. She told me that next March she is leaving on a 60 day cruise to the Mediterranean, and is looking forward to visiting Ephesus again. *Sigh* Personally, I would be hesitant to venture to Turkey at this time, or in March, as the case might be.

Today’s news brought stories of upset in Greece yet again, with the Prime Minister scarcely hanging onto his seat; Italy having problems in the government, having had their credit rating decreased and in as serious a state as Greece’s---or very nearly. Both socialist governments, crumbling, and ours might not be too far behind. When seeing the cities in flames, it’s hard to tell if it is Grecian cities ablaze, or those on our own soil! I even heard it kicked about that Greece should sell its islands in order to make some money but I hate to even consider what would happen to them. I am so thankful for my past trips, my photos, and the memories stored!

By the way, I have been able to see the planes against the sky. One of my great pleasures in recent days, aside from the private air show, is catching up with reclaimed friend from the old days, Kathy. We have exchanged e-mails and sent photos of our homes and our children. She has me out-numbered in the children department, having four of them, plus grandchildren. Kathy certainly does not look grandma-ish, from what I have seen in her photographs. She loves taking care of her granddaughters, and I am glad for that, for her. Kathy has a daughter living in Orlando which likely means a face-to-face visit is in order!

When I attended the tea party event with the ladies from water aerobics class, I tasted the delightful olive mixture served on brochette. The owner of the shop ordered a jar of it for me and it was absolutely delicious. It was expensive, relatively speaking, so I decided to check around the stores to see if it was available. I did find some more finely chopped than from the boutique but nearly as good. I remember having this mixture on a sandwich or two when in Florence, served with ham. Oh my goodness, it was so good! I had my sandwich, as well as Jean Nichols’ because she did not care for the muffaletto. I am glad I have some ham in the freezer to make a delightful sandwich for myself later, and remember Firenza!

A musical weekend

Last weekend was lots of singing on my part, with joint choir rehearsal Saturday morning and again on Sunday before the Reformation service. Then, we sang for the actual service, which had lots of singing. Tonight I was on the listening end of the music, as I attended an organ recital in which my friend, Rachel, was a presenter. This recital is part of what she needs to earn a certain designation in the organ playing world. Two men went ahead of her and then Rachel played. She had the largest contingent of fans in the audience, drawing from her biological family as well as church family and co-workers. Three of us were from Good Shepherd including The Maestro.

This church was the same one where my friend, Kathy’s, daughter was married a couple years ago. The church looks like a cathedral inside, with Spanish tile, wrought iron, Moravian looking lights, a real old-world charm. And extremely uncomfortable seating! At least our humble church has comfy seats…

After the recital, we were invited downstairs for refreshments. We gathered around tables in the church basement (in Florida???) to have our treats. Anne H. sat next to me and I told her I was glad she had her camera. She had taken a photo of Rachel at the magnificent pipe organ, as she played “A Mighty Fortress” just for her Lutheran friends, after the recital was over. (I was still in the church portion while the others were around the organ in front of the church, behind the altar area. Ellen and I sang from the aisle, and the others from around the organ. Antiphonal!)

Anne remarked that she is not as quick with getting her photos posted as Miss Kim is….I defended myself by saying I have no life so have nothing else to do but mess with my pictures. Anne had a good laugh over that, but she does, in fact, have a job during the day so must play at night or whenever there is down-time. Gotta love down-time!

We all gather again on Sunday night for another musical presentation, this time at St. Mark's for a Bach vesper service. Man, I am making the rounds as far as church-hopping goes. First the Assembly of God musical event for my neighbor, then last night at a Baptist church, and Sunday, Episcopal! Both Rachel and Kerra, from last week's photos, are in this Bach presentation, which Rachel informed us is an actual service. Hmmm...I have to think about this....is this a fellowship matter??

Before the recital, Suzanne and I met at Panera Bread for an early dinner, each of us ordering the gourmet mac ‘n cheese, with Suzanne’s meal coming with a turkey Panini. A nice young man, the head baker it seems, spoke to us ladies from behind the counter, asking what we were doing tomorrow morning. Not sure what to answer, Suzanne reported having to attend a soccer match with her daughter. He told us that every morning this week the Blue Angel pilots had been coming in for breakfast and thought we might like to come in when they are there. Nice! I told him I get to watch the practices during the day since I live on the river. He was nice young man!

My day prior to meeting Suzanne was action packed, beginning with “Meet, Eat, and Play” at The Club. This week again we played Trivial Pursuit, adding Mary Lew, back from knee replacement surgery. We established an 11:00 a.m. end time but did quit before since Mary Lew had to leave. She was going to stay and have lunch at The Club but had a meeting in between. Mary Lew is back!!! We had no one close to winning so I hold the status of being the declared winner for two weeks. I suggested “Scattergories” for next time which more might enjoy.

Again, half my breakfast came home with me which can be enjoyed tomorrow morning. The French toast breakfast is so good, but has four slices of toast, plus eggs and bacon. I ate the bacon and two pieces of the toast before hitting the wall. When the Chef came out to talk with us, asking how our meals were, I told him the portion was too large for one sitting for me, so it’s a great value---two meals for $8.00!

Mary was able to go and see one of the available apartments Kerrie has, just across the street from the property, near the tennis courts. The price seems to be close to what she can afford and certainly nearer to work than where she lives now. On one hand, she would be upstairs where she prefers to live, but not have washer/dryer hook-ups. The more expensive lower unit does have hook-ups but she prefers to be upstairs. There is a laundromat across the street on Hwy.17. How fun if she lived this close to me! We could hang out all the time!

When I woke up this morning, I counted the chimes of the clock to determine the time, since I have no clock in my room. When the clock struck 7:00, I was astounded because it was still so very dark outside. What the heck? I guess I had better get used to darkness in the mornings since we set the clocks back an hour this weekend and will wake when it’s dark still. If I didn’t have the function at The Club, it would have been so easy to just cover up and sleep another hour or so! The gentle rain lolling me to sleep…..I am glad I did not nod off during the recital and embarrass myself and my compatriots!

Laughing in my room----again!

Of course, it’s laughing at “Seinfeld”, The Kiss Hello episode. I remember when I used to burst out laughing at either "Frasier" or "Seinfeld" and scare Lynx straight up into the air. She never saw it coming, but she should have!

We had a laugh at Bible study this a.m. too. Before we can take our seats in the back of the church at the tables, we have to wait for the pre-k gang to vacate. Liz was in there busily wiping the tables when I ventured in and offered to help her with the cleaning up. She had a Clorox wipe in each hand, seeming to have quite the system in place. She busily wiped the seats off and went for the broom and dust pan. Meanwhile, Pastor H. came through and picked up something from the floor---a gooey, slimy gummy thing that dripped all over his hand. I gave him a Clorox wipe to clean his hand off as he chuckled about the stuff kids leave on the floor.

Later, a family walked through with the mom carrying a live animal in her arms, which I got a fairly close-up look at from my seat. Everyone else assumed it was a stuffed creature but it was live, for Show and Tell. I think it was a guinea pig, not quite as large as a rabbit but bigger than a hamster. When class was done, and we were putting the tables and chairs back, Pastor H. bent over to pick up something on the floor. He recoiled and then laughed, realizing it was a little turd from the furry pet! Using his fingers, he brought it into the kitchen where I was rinsing Judy’s coffee cup, dropped the turd into the trash and laughingly washed his hands. Pastor said, “Anne would call that a shurtzy” or something like that, and then said, “Guess you never know what you’re going to find on the floor…” That’s for sure!

When we were leaving, Rita and Marilyn invited me to join them for lunch at Olive Garden. Since I was not familiar with the area we were going, Rita said to follow her. She drives like it’s a get-away car and a couple times I thought she shook me but I tailed her! We had to do one go around since we turned a drive-way too soon but eventually the three of us found the restaurant and were seated. Marilyn said she wondered how I would be able to keep up with Lead Foot Rita but I held my own!

My lunch from Olive Garden was a variety of appetizers but I did not care for the ravioli bites. The waiter offered to remove them from my bill but I said no because there was nothing wrong with them, I just didn’t like them. The mozzarella and chicken tenders were fine, and the company better! After a lovely visit we parted company with me finding my way back to 9-A somehow or another.

Last night I had a good sleep on my freshly washed sheets, no crumbs yet. It was hard to get out of bed this a.m. but I did it somehow. The sun was reluctant but did eventually free itself of the clouds by lunch time. The temp was 80 as I drove home but sure didn’t feel like it.

My dinner last night and again tonight was something from the back of my freezer, leftover roast beef with carrots. I made baked potatoes to eat with the leftovers which I re-cooked in the oven the entire time I was at choir rehearsal last night. Talk about tender roast beef! For dinner tonight I simply microwaved the balance of the meal, planning to dispose of what I could not finish.

Yesterday I got my fingers and toes done at a salon just down the street. Actually it is across from where our office used to be, near the post office. My friend, Jennifer, who used to go to church with me, recommended her niece, a recent graduate from beauty college. Some of my finger nails were ridged and the cuticles bad so opted to have both hands and feet attended to by Jennifer, named for her aunt! A lovely young lady, who is attending classes at the community college besides working at the salon. She is presently in education but might change her major to Christian counseling. Probably gets a workout listening to the clients in the salon! Gotta love an ambitious and pretty young woman…she is probably too busy to date right now but would make a lovely daughter-in-law!