Resting my brain a bit

Much of the day, which was grey and overcast, was spent at this computer, working on the church newsletter, among other things. It seems so very odd to be writing about Christmas and Epiphany already, with ThanksLiving just a few days away. It also occurred to me today that I will be in WI when the next newsletter is due out so I will have to work ahead and then remember to e-mail it to myself so I can work on it at my mom’s house. While my telephone works well for checking e-mail and Facebook updates, I cannot really use it to write newsletters. Don’t tell Justin this or he will insist I upgrade! Mom's computer is on dial-up service so instead of logging on and tying up her phone line, I simply can use my Android!

Today would NOT be a good day to discuss upgrading!!! My trips to the mailbox have been without fruit this month thus far, but with some hope, midweek next week I will have something more for which to be thankful. Sadly, my table will be missing a few faces that I had been looking forward to seeing there. My friend, Stephanie, lost her father this week. On Thursday, when it was time to turn over and hit the alarm button, Dale was already gone home to the Lord, his heart now healed. Stephanie and daughter, Erica (my Trivia buddy!) are with Grandma Jean and other family. Erica, a student at WLC, had just spent last weekend with her grandparents and auntie. Several months ago, Dale and Jean had joined us for Trivia when they were in town visiting. I am so sorry for the family but glad that Dale is forever with the Lord!

Erica’s boyfriend, Justin S., was also going to join us at the table for the feast but now there is some question as to whether he will come without Stephanie being there. I let him know that I have a place planned for him and since he already knows my Justin and me, well, he should come! Tomorrow at church there is a bake sale and hopefully I can buy a pie or two there. Stephanie was making us two pies, one pumpkin and one raisin, I think, or was it sour cream apple???

While catching up on my Internet show, I addressed envelopes for the Advent cards I send to the kids of the congregation. Since I bought 25 last year, which came with envelopes, I simply repeated the order for this year. When the shipment arrived, no envelopes were included. I wrote to them immediately and expressed my concern. A lady wrote back and said they no longer include the envelopes since many people did not use them. For nine cents apiece she would send them to me, but I declined. Instead I used some too large for the cards, but a good way to use them up. And, I no longer need 25 cards for our congregation. The leftover ones I sent to some of the kids who have left GS, plus yesterday, I mailed some to my nephews in Sheboygan, before I even knew I would have extras!

Friday morning was a busy one for me as I had the opportunity to drive my friend, Brenda, to work. Not only Brenda, though, but our shared friend, Edda, needed a ride as well. I loved having a bus route for my lady friends, who live very close to each other in Eagle Harbor. Edda’s office is near my home and we dropped her off first, then took Brenda. Both ladies are having a balance problem, with Edda’s being new since she took a spill in her kitchen.

Somehow or another our lovely blue Advent banners have disappeared from the sacristy. Carol called me Thursday to let me know and I was filled with disbelief. They just HAD to be there somewhere, so after dropping off Brenda, I went over to church to check for myself. Nope, no M & M blue banners to be found. How could they disappear like that? Michael C. had also gone in search of them after Carol had looked three times. I wondered if perhaps they were at the cleaners for a year, so I called the one Carol uses for church stuff. Nope, they did not have them either. This Advent, sadly, will not have our very special banners but hopefully, with the help of insurance money, we can have new ones for next year. Unless, somehow they turn up…

After the search I headed to The Club with my Scrabble board in arms, arriving in time to order my breakfast. I felt like having home fries so the nice chef made me an order, and Margie gave me one of her French toast slices (such a big order!). You will never guess who won the Scrabble game---before it was entirely over but due to time constraints, me!

Edda had a doctor appointment in the afternoon for which her daughter would drive, so I only had Brenda for my afternoon bus run. Stopping first at Papa Murphy’s for a pizza and cookie dough, I headed toward Wells Road, which was crawling along due to construction. When I got to her workplace, my dear friend, Jimmie, was standing outside by his truck. I loved seeing him and getting a series of hugs and a couple smooches!

Friday night was Dinner and a Movie, with Judy C. and Martie coming to watch and eat pizza. We watched “Water For Elephants” which was an extraordinary movie! For dessert, we had a special treat---Judy was experimenting with a brownie recipe where she dropped batter into muffin papers, added a teeny tiny candy bar, and then more batter over the top. And that’s exactly what they were---over the top!!!

From my friend, Linda M.

These are attributed to Andy Rooney, and while I am not sure he said them all, most are delicious morsels upon which to chew!

I've learned.... That the best classroom in the world is at the feet of an elderly person.

I've learned.... That when you're in love, it shows.

I've learned.... That just one person saying to me, "You've made my day!" makes my day.

I've learned.... That having a child fall asleep in your arms is one ofthe most peaceful feelings in the world.

I've learned.... That being kind is more important than being right.

I've learned.... That you should never say no to a gift from a child.

I've learned.... That I can always pray for someone when I don't have the strength to help him in some other way.

I've learned.... That no matter how serious your life requires you to be, everyone needs a friend to act goofy with.

I've learned.... That sometimes all a person needs is a hand to hold and a heart to understand.

I've learned.... That simple walks with my father around the block on summer nights when I was a child did wonders for me as an adult.

I've learned.... That life is like a roll of toilet paper. The closer it gets to the end, the faster it goes.

I've learned.... That we should be glad God doesn't give us everything we ask for.

I've learned.... That money doesn't buy class.

I've learned.... That it's those small daily happenings that make life so spectacular.

I've learned.... That under everyone's hard shell is someone who wants to be appreciated and loved.

I've learned.... That to ignore the facts does not change the facts.

I 've learned.... That when you plan to get even with someone, you are only letting that person continue to hurt you.

I've learned.... That love, not time, heals all wounds.

I've learned.... That the easiest way for me to grow as a person is to surround myself with people smarter than I am.

I've learned.... That everyone you meet deserves to be greeted with a smile.

I've learned.... That no one is perfect until you fall in love with them.

I've learned... That life is tough, but I'm tougher.

I've learned.... That opportunities are never lost; someone will take the ones you miss.

I've learned.... That when you harbor bitterness, happiness will dock elsewhere.

I've learned.... That I wish I could have told my Mom that I love her one more time before she passed away.

I've learned.... That one should keep his words both soft and tender, because tomorrow he may have to eat them.

I've learned..... That a smile is an inexpensive way to improve your looks.

I've learned..... That when your newly born grandchild holds your little finger in his little fist, that you're hooked for life.

I've learned.... That everyone wants to live on top of the mountain, but all the happiness and growth occurs while you're climbing it.

I've learned.... That the less time I have to work with, the more things I get done.

"God bless you, you smell good!"

My perfume smells good to others, apparently, as several people in recent days remarked about it. I wear “Obsession”, by Calvin Klein, and have done so since 2000 when I discovered it when on a cruise in the Mediterranean with my former spouse. The gift shop on the ship offered samples. I loved the spiciness of it, light and not at all flowery. Yes, it is slightly more expensive than most pay, but a little bit goes a long way. I was in the elevator once with a policeman who had dropped off paperwork of Travis, my neighbor, who is a public servant. The policeman was in already when he stopped for me on my floor and after a second, he said to me, “God bless you, you smell good!”

When I was leaving the other day, I rode down in the elevator with Travis and he complimented me, saying I smelled nice. Well, thank you, Travis! When I got outside and passed Connie on the walkway, she said, “Boy, you smell good today!” I thanked her as well but then replied it was the same scent I wear every day. I don’t think I over did it at all, as I like to use it sparingly to make it last. Usually, though, I don’t go immediately from shower, to being dressed, to being out the door which is how my day was on Friday.

Monday I watched half of the Packer/Viking game with my neighbor and he asked me, “Is that Shalimar?” I said, “Is who Shalimar?” since I thought he was talking about football! No, it was a perfume, but he said mine was nice, light. Thank you again. I had not reapplied any since getting ready for the day and this was nearly 12 hours later.

Today again someone said to me that I always smell so good and I thanked them for the compliment. And Judy A. said that people from the Midwest have a hard time taking a compliment. Well, I accept!

A week of ThanksLiving and ThanksLoving!!!

I used that expression, ThanksLiving, when talking about it with my upstairs neighbor, Randy, and he attempted to correct me. He is a student of history and wanted to defend the celebration of Thanksgiving in our nation. In my own defense, I explained the reason why I like ‘my’ term better, to live a life in thanks every day rather than one day a year. It takes nothing away from the historical first Thanksgiving with the Pilgrims and Indians, but carries out the giving thanks for daily use and appreciation. Yesterday, I had much to celebrate for ThanksLiving:

My sister, Kerry, going through some tough times following her spouse’s heart surgery, was blessed with a bounty of meat and fish. Her friend from work was cleaning out her freezer and brought the meat for Kerry to take home. She has to cook ‘heart healthy’ for her spouse, which is costly enough, but Kerry can eat whatever she wishes, and will, now that her freezer is filled!

My niece, Lisa, reported that between her two churches, the one where they are members and the one where the boys attend school, have put them on an Angel of Hope list again this year. Being on this list allows them some extra blessings from the community, if I remember correctly. Last year they also received a gift of diapers, right after Angelo was born, as one of the church members works for a paper company which manufactures them. The diapers came in large plastic bags, if memory serves, and Lisa was so happy to have them.

My longtime friend reported her husband had recently found a new job after his plant was closing in their hometown. She had been stressing, spent sleepless nights spent reciting memorized hymns of trust to rock herself to sleep. Monday I was telling the folks at Bible study how my little nephews were memorizing the first stanza of “Wake, Awake For Night is Flying” as their memory treasure at school, and what a treasure it is! My friend was making use of those same hymns learned in grade school and high school as her comfort and prayers. A friend from their church was able to connect her hubby with a job, doing similar work to what he has been doing all these years.

Now that the prayers are answered in the affirmative, she is irritated with herself for not having more trust. I think we all do this, and in my case, the First Commandment violation is primary. Knowing better doesn’t seem to change the reaction, thinking the solution or the relief from a problem is from or through ourselves. She apologized for not letting me know sooner that they had problems but said she could not discuss it without breaking down in tears. Yes, I am familiar….I told her how I imagine the Lord thinking:“Tsk, tsk, tsk…Don’t you remember I promised to be with you to the very end of the age?” I should and would pray,“Lord, I believe; help thou my unbelief.” Her reaction after this blessing is to be a blessing to others, as their cup now runneth over. “Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life…”

We make our own trouble sometimes

Really? Do you think so? I am yet a bit tremulous after making the travel arrangements for Justin and me in December. He was unsure of what his work schedule would be and in order for me to go ahead with the reservations, had to make a decision. Hopefully he will not miss a day of work with William, but it might work that the lawn jobs are scheduled around Justin’s traveling!

When I let Mom know our dates, she was glad to know he would be there as long as he is planning to be. Last year in spring was the last time Justin was there, for Alayna’s graduation. His time was cut short when his future step-mother flew him home for Father’s Day. This visit will be longer and more activity-packed, including, I hope, a stop at the Green Street Tavern for perch on our way from the airport!

What made me nervous was the actual reservation process, using my flight voucher (it worked!) to help defray some of the cost of his ticket. Since his travel is during one of the busiest travel times of the year, his fare is more than my longer stay fare. Once a person hits the ‘Purchase’ button, it’s a done deal, and too expensive to mess up. My confidence was weak this morning but now, it is taken care of, in keeping with Justin’s requirements.

Since speaking with him this morning, he has called me again and talked all the way to Ponte Vedra where he was going to do some site prep work for a house being built there. It’s a long ride from Fleming Island, that is for sure! He was telling me about a sale at Old Navy with a discount today only (hint hint) and about his upcoming trip to NYC. He is being treated to a Packer/Giants game as someone in his step-mother’s family works for the Giants’ team and gave them tickets. Justin’s role is supposedly to be the tour guide as he knows his way around The City.

He told me how he reported enjoying the more laid-back visits we had done but also is looking forward to the hurried schedule they will have (5 in the party) once they arrive. The other day he sent me an excited text message reporting a Duane Reade drugstore right in the hotel!!! We usually hit the closest drugstore or bodega for soda when we are there, and to have it right in the hotel is great! And dirty water hot dog stand out front as well, nothing better!

He arrives in NYC on Friday afternoon and returns to JAX on Monday, hopefully arriving in time to make it to the Jaguar game that night. I offered to pick him up from the airport but he said, “You wouldn’t want to take me downtown to the Jaguar stadium…” Nope, he needs his buddies for that! Plus, that night I am hosting the Ladies’ Group CHRISTmas party here which means I would have no time for airport runs that day. I am sure a certain amount of angst had to go into that trip planning as well. But how exciting to see the Packers play!

I can see more clearly now…

Not entirely clear yet but the heaviest of the fog has lifted and boats are visible on the water. The helicopters did not seem to mind the fog at all, as I could hear them before I could see them from my windows.

There are ducks floating on the water and yesterday I saw a flock of geese arrowing their way across the skies. Lots of wildlife around lately including pets galore in the building. Our newer tenants all have pets, mainly dogs, so that is a good way to get to know each other, finding them out walking their dogs. Hugh, my neighbor, made that remark last night at the Board meeting, that everyone should have a dog!

I am catching up on my Internet program, today's airing from Nashville and is airing from a restaurant/bar across from where the CMA show will take place. The building viewed out the window is purple with darker purple trim, and makes me want to go to Nashville some day! I think the name painted on the side is called “Tootsies”. I saw Hank Williams Jr., a guy named Brooks, and Art Laffer, an economist, so far. Quite an eclectic mix, with more to come! Now speaking is a man who is of Jewish heritage and now a Christian, discussing the situation of what is going on Israel and the region. Very interesting!

The mail again brought several catalogs which are driving me wild. In the past I would have shopped like a mad woman, as I see items perfect for people in my family, or for my friends. That party is over, but I still want to play! The conversation I have had with friends in recent weeks revolves around reaching a tipping point in our lives. We, they, seem to be stopping or slowing our "taking in" process, and are seeking more to empty out. This happened when folks were getting ready for their church yard sales and began the rooting out process in their homes. Finding stuff you had not seen or used in years, hanging on to for no apparent reason, now becomes someone else’s stuff to hang on to.

My friend, Gretchen, has been at that point for some time, as she is very close to Mom’s age. Every now and again she gives me a present from her storehouse of memories. And always with a special thought attached to it. When someone gives her something, she has to check herself from saying, “I am trying to get rid of stuff…” but she usually knows someone who will enjoy what she received, someday! Gretchen is a regifter!

There is a little contest going on regarding “Seinfeld” on Facebook, featuring episodes which dealt with gifting or regifting. While I do not watch the episodes at the time, the tease will reference the item being focused upon, such as the sweater with the red dot on it; the label maker (first time “regifter” was mentioned in the show); a bobka; the marble rye; the leather recliner; and a big screen TV. At least one of the group was a reluctant participant in contributing or taking a gift (“Someone moves and now we have to buy a gift???”). It’s society, George, that’s the way it is!

Gabe's birthday today

Today is my great-nephew's, Gabriel Adam Timothy, eighth birthday. Lisa had been at our house in Florida the summer before his birth where we hosted a baby shower for her. Over the years she had become quite friendly with many on our staff so they were glad to help celebrate her first baby.

Gabe's bedroom theme was Noah's Ark, as his daddy's name is Noah. It was fun to shop for him, and even more fun for Lisa and Lynn to tote all the presents home with them!

I love Gabe like nuts!