A First for Thanksgiving

Well, we did the normal Thanksgiving meal at my Mom's. Had the dressing/stuffing, and all the "fixins" with it. More than we could eat and we all sat in a stupor after supper. Yes supper, not lunch/dinner. (Whichever you prefer.)

But, for the first time in our lives, we helped take care of a sick baby on Black Friday. No shopping, not that I would have anyway. No, the poor child was as sick as he could be. At first we thought it was teething, because his poor upper gums look to explode at any second. But it masked the real issue. After walking the floor with LMW two nights in a row, we were able to take him to the Saturday sick child clinic at his doctor's office. And I made sure I told the staff how much I had thanked God for them. He has the croup and strep. The poor poor child. No wonder he was so miserable.

He's had the first round of steroids and Ampicillin, and he seems to be feeling better. Enough so, that LeLe took him home to try to spend the night. His Daddy had to work today, and HAD to get some sleep, so he and his Mama stayed with us last night. He's/she's/we are quarantined for a day or so. Not that any of us have the energy to go anywhere anyway.......................

Happy Thanksgiving!

I've already listed thanks, but want to repeat how thankful I am for my family. What would life be like without them? I shudder to think. And God has blessed us with countless joy in the person of LMW. There are no words to describe how much love and happiness he has added to our lives.

I wanted to post a short idea for those of you who love flavored coffee, and are trying to cut back on the sugar. I found some things at Walmart that are pretty good.

Splenda has come up with  great flavor packets to add to your coffee, and I found sugar free coffee creamer. Those two things make coffee taste pretty yummy. Not as good as real cream and sugared flavors, but you can't have everything. I decided the other day to try some spices to the mix. Pretty darn good.

I don't own a coffee pot, never having been a coffee drinker, so instant decaf is what I use. I don't drink even this on a regular basis, but when I do decide I want a little something, this works for me. If you decide to try it, let me know what you think.  I believe it's a little better iced than hot, but that's just my opinion.

Cool....

After my strange post yesterday, I thought I'd post something a little more fun. Of course, that means LMW....

The boy constantly kicks his legs and it's just hilarious. Even when he's sleeping he occasionally kicks. He's so fun!

And here are a few pictures of my Bradford Pear trees in the front yard. After the drought this summer, I didn't think we'd have any color. I'm so thankful we do...

View from my front door.

The beautiful colors and fruit, just waiting for the Cedar Waxwing migration. I hope they don't skip us this year.

Antsy

It's the middle of November. The men are heading out to the deer woods in the morning. Yesterday I did some major Christmas shopping, but have much left to do, and I am antsy to get to it.

I'm almost done with my latest project and I can't share it here due to it being a Christmas gift. I'll post after the holidays. . I need another project idea to focus on. If I don't have something in the works, or at least in my head, I get all out of wack.

I can't decorate for Christmas yet. Oh I suppose I could if I really wanted to... but I'd have to wait until the hubs is so tired from chasing deer, that he comes home for a day or so. and can climb into the attic. And who knows when that will be? But he is very close in relation to Ebeneezer Scrooge, so I dare not even ask until the day after Thanksgiving.

I want to paint. I want to sew. I want to plant flowers. (All the mums and pansies have disappeared around town, so I won't be able to put any in the pots in the back yard, as I had planned) I can't, so I sit here, posting about nothing really. That's what you do when you are antsy and no project to get to. Or at least it's what I do.

This post is terribly disjointed. Like my brain. Maybe tomorrow will be better.

In Honor of Our Veterans

How wonderful to know that the citizens of the United States of America realize the worth and sacrifice of our military men and women. On facebook and on blogs all over, every day women and men are thanking our armed forces for their actions and willingness to protect this great country of ours. It wasn't always this way.

My father was a veteran of both Korea and Vietnam. It's a terrible shame the Vietnam vets came home to such hate and ridicule. My father fought some very tough battles, and saw and experienced things we will never know the horror of. I was 11 when he returned and didn't realize how very blessed we were that he did. Return that is, as so many didn't.  

My Dad even documented his tour of duty with photos he had made into slides. This time for him was so important, and so life changing, that he would bring those slides out periodically, and share them with his family. When we were young, we just sort of shook our heads and endured them, but after his death in 2005, we longed for that time of reflection. He would tell us the stories of what happened to his company, who was killed, who was maimed, who made it back in one piece. If anyone who comes back from war ever really comes back in one piece. They are forever changed, and it never leaves them no matter how old they get.

Now there are both women and men suffering, leaving behind families who love and depend on them. I suppose there will always be war. But at least in this time in history, we will salute and honor them. I wish to thank all those who have or are currently serving in the military. Thank you for your sacrifice and your willingness to go in my place, to protect my freedom and liberty.

Let us not forget those who fought in the American Revolution. If not for them, we would be living under the rule of another country. How blessed we are to be living in the United States of American. God Bless the USA!

In memory of 1st Sgt Arn J. Brown, USMC. 1934-2005

Semper Fi

I miss you Daddy.

Wordless Wednesday

Ever Had One of Those Days?

One of those days when you can't seem to settle? A million things go through your head and you not only aggravate others but also yourself? This has been that day.

Yesterday I received another epidural injection in my neck. This one seems to be working a bit better than the last, thank you LORD. But the aftermath is always a struggle. I was able to sleep last night with the help of some strong drugs, and I feel the residual today. I not only have one, but many worms in my head and I am frantically trying to do, and find out, and figure out every. single. thing.  going on in my head. Very frustrating for my family, I can tell you. And they let me know about it too. :P

I've been to Walmart, washed laundry, done some spray painting, some sewing, internet shopping and countless emailings. My body is so tired I can barely function, but my mind and spirit are still in overdrive.

Here's hoping tomorrow is a calmer day. And of course, LMW will be here, so my focus will have one place most of the day. It will be a relief.

All in a Row

I've decided to list all of my thanks in one post. I think of things I want to list the next day, and then I forget what it was. This way, I can just put them all down at once.

I am on day 8, and already posted that thanks, so I'll start with....

9. My toothbrush. Can't even imagine living without that. I get all yucky feeling when I haven't brushed. I suppose toothpaste should go with that, but I could make do without it, as long as I could brush them regularly. How many people in the world live without a toothbrush, and think nothing of it? It might not be a world issue, but for me it's very important.

10. Doctors of medicine. Lately, I've been seeing lots of doctors. For my blood pressure, for my arthritis, for my neck pain....seems I am borderline candidate for Sjogren's Syndrome, and am now being treated for Fibromyalgia. Can you imagine how miserable I would be if there were no doctors to diagnose my problems, and treat them? I go in today for another ESI, (epidural steroid injection) and I really REALLY hope it helps more than the last one. If not, I'll have to live with the pain in my neck, which is a real pain in the neck!!!

11. My Sunday School class. Our teacher studies hard for us, and the women as a whole participate well, and seem truly concerned about prayer needs and each others lives. It's taken me a while to feel like a part of the class, but I'm finally getting there.

12. My Father. What a man he was. A veteran of Vietnam and Korea. A Marine through and through, but with one of the kindest hearts I've ever known. He was a math wiz, and could create the most beautiful things with wood. He loved his children, and tried to spend as much time with his grandchildren as possible. He did ANYTHING I asked him to. I miss him just as much now as I did when he first passed. It's so hard.

13. Our new pastor. I am amazed every Sunday at what he announces from the Lord. He never makes excuses, he never waters it down. He stands in the pulpit and tells it like it is, like it or not. How refreshing!

14. My Mom. She went to work after being a stay at home mom for 14 years, so we could be involved in school activities. You know they aren't free. There are suits, equipment, dues and fees. With five children to support, she had to help my Dad bring in some much needed revenue.  And because of that, I learned the cooking and cleaning and day to day essentials of taking care of a home. If we wanted to have company over and a clean house, it was up to us kids to make sure the house looked nice. If we wanted clean clothes, it was up to us to do the laundry. We bellyached then, but how wonderful to learn it early on. It has served me well.

15. My sisters. All sisters have their troubles, and their tiffs, but they also have such a strong loving bond. I am so thankful I have my sisters to share my life with. 

16. My Washer and Dryer.....need I say any more?

17. My car. And a new one at that. When my Mom was diagnosed with cancer in 08, we decided I needed something a bit more comfortable than a pickup. So, my loving husband bought me a brand new Hyundai Tucson. And. I. Love. It.  It's small enough that it maneuvers well, but has good space in it.

18. A nice warm/cool home. Not only a roof over my head, but a place to feel safe, comfortable, loved, and creative. I am warm in the winter and cool in the summer with just a flip of a switch. How lucky am I?!!  I have a home that we bought new, and it was so wonderful to have been able to move right in, and not have to repair or remodel. After 9 years, it's beginning to need a little tlc, but it's still strong and firm and safe. Are there things I would change? Definitely, but can I be happy without those changes? Of course. It's my HOME.

19. My computer. How in the world did I function without one so long ago? When I was working at the library 10 years ago...(has it been that long? Sheesh!) we got the first computers around, and I was mesmerized. It was like the computer was a magnet and I was drawn to it whether I willed it or not. I learned so much at that job about the computer. I wish I knew more, but at this point, I don' think my feeble brain could absorb it well enough. But, having the computer has given me so many ideas, so much information I'd have to go to the library to look up, IF they had anything on a certain topic. It's made the creative process sooo much easier at times.
Picture courtesy bing.com

20. My new remodeled back porch. I simply love that place. I love sitting out there and listening to the birds, an watching the ones that are not so skittish of me sitting there. Next Spring I will be so excited to look at the beautiful plants that I hope and pray will be there.

21. My friend in Georgia that I have only been able to spend a short amount of face to face time with, but we still visit almost daily via the internet. Just having someone to vent to, to listen to me, and that I can share my day to day issues with is wonderful. She is always there for me. Even when her computer is reeking havoc, she sends short messages as she can to let me know she's still there and thinking of me. My only regret is that we live so far apart, we can seldom get together.

 

 Pictures courtesy of bing.com

22. The holiday seasons. Thanksgiving and Christmas.  But I don't like that most folks are beginning to skim over the Thanksgiving part and get right to the Christmas. Here it is November 8th, and my neighbors already have their Christmas lights up.... but back to the thankful part. I love the cooking and family time at Thanksgiving. And I live to give gifts at Christmas. I've gotten to the point where I don't even care if I get anything, as long as I can give. It gives me a purpose and a goal for all the crafts and sewing.

23. I'm thankful we were able to relocate 10 years ago. God blessed us with the selling of our home, giving us the funds to purchase in a new town. It was hard, but it was worth it and we are all much happier, and have been blessed by the move. Things have happened, that never would have if we had stayed in our old place.

24. My Bible. God's Holy Word. Oh, how I would be so lost in this world without His instruction. And to hear how Jesus lived and died. So many in this world have never seen a Bible. It's truly a blessing to own one, and I have several. Some are even put away where you can't see them. Sometimes I am not comfortable with that.


Picture courtesy bing.com

25. And I saved the most important for last. I am thankful that I am saved by grace by the blood of Jesus Christ. The Holy Son of God. The Alpha and Omega. I have hope in Him. I know my Redeemer lives and I will dwell with him forever in Heaven when my time on earth is done. "Oh how sweet to trust in Jesus." Thankful for a God who loved me enough to send His Son to die for my sins. It's just beyond comprehension how God could have sacrificed that much for me, and that His Son would take the pain of my punishment. I am truly thankful.

I hope and pray you have a wonderful holiday season, and that you experience God's joy in the celebration.
Picture courtesy Daniel B. Holeman

Thank you my Lord and my God, for all the many blessings. More than can be contained in a blog.

Day 8 of Thanks

I'm very thankful for my sewing machine, and the ability to use it. (Even though the bobbin tends to give me fits frequently) How would I function now, without it? Speaking of which, I'm thankful God blessed me with the talent to sew and paint. It has been something that gives me great pleasure, and occasionally, it gives others pleasure too.

I've made countless outfits for my children. I've decorated scores of garments for them, as well as others. I actually paid for buying Christmas presents 2 or 3 years in a row, back when painted sweatshirts were in vogue. I even cut out and painted wooden items for a while. (I kinda miss that.) I'm now sewing items for babies and children, as well as a bit of quilting. And instead of painting on shirts, I'm painting canvases. All the creativity has put me in an emotional place I haven't been in years. I'm very content, dare I say even happy...And all that thanksgiving for crafting, goes with the freedom to stay at home, and not have to work outside the home.

For these things Lord, We give thee thanks.

Day 7 of Thanks (Sunday)

I'm thankful that I had both my children and my grandson with me at one time for a change last night. And that I was able to watch the Razorbacks win with my son here.  I don't get to see him enough, but I am so thankful for the times I can. And I'm so thankful that my daughter includes me in her and her son's life. Not every parent is so blessed.

Day Six

I have to say that I'm thankful it's Saturday and I could sleep late and can now lounge around in my jammies for a while. It's amazing how wonderful it feels on a cool fall morning, to just relax and enjoy being in a warm house.

Addendum:
Funny how I find myself doing work, instead of laying in the recliner and relaxing.....but I guess I can do it at my own pace, and am not on a schedule.

Day Five of Thanksgivings

Today my thanksgiving is for the privilege of attending a church where ever and when ever I wish. And I can do so without persecution. I am thankful that my church is close by, and that I get from it what I put into it. We have a new pastor, and he is not afraid to tell the truth, no matter who it may offend. He preaches the BIBLE. And I am very glad of that.

Ok, I'm In...

There are several folks who are posting about thankfulness, leading up to Thanksgiving or beyond. I thought I'd try. At the very least it will give me something to blog about. At the very most, it will make me really think about how blessed I am.  Since I'm four days behind, I'll give four in this post.

1. LMW..... Oh my word, he is such a blessing. Having a grand child is better than words can describe. Today is his 6 month birthday, and you can read about it on LeLe's blog.

He is the happiest baby I've ever seen, and so much fun!!! Thank you Lord for sending him!

2. My family. (Goes without saying, but I'm saying) They are a true delight to me. They are my heart and my soul and I would be so alone without them. I love you guys! I absolutely love doing for them, was blessed mightily raising my kids. They have both grown to be loving, faithful Christians. God bless them. And having a loyal, faithful, supportive husband is beyond measure. He has sacrificed for us all our days, always putting aside his needs to fulfill ours. He has truly been a wonderful husband and father.

3. The blessing of being able to stay at home and do what I love. God have blessed us financially, just enough that I don't have to work outside the home. Money is tight, but it always has been, so we are used to it.

4. The arrival of November and fall weather with all the beautiful leaves. I love the crisp air, the rainy days, the colors. God is a talented artist to be sure.

So, there are four of my days of Thanksgiving. What are you thankful for?