Little Grey Gardens

Day 30 - Beginnings, My Lil Sis

2012-01-30T13:42:00.000-07:00

All dressed up for church

Today is the day we've always celebrated my little sis's birthday, January 30th. Sometime in the past few years, she discovered her birthday is actually the 31st. Someone made a clerical error on her birth certificate, probably forgetting that January had more than 30 days. She was born on a Sunday, and that year it was the 31st.

I remember the day she was born. We were at church, and someone had to leave to drive my mom to the hospital. I stayed with my grandparents. After the service was over, we drove to Mercy Hospital in Nampa. Only adults were allowed to go up to see a new baby. I waited downstairs with a friend or relative. That was the beginning of my life with my sis.

I sat here last night, letting my mind drift over the years. We have lived through so many things together. I'm not going to list them here, but there have been joys and there have been sorrows. We have laughed, cried, fought, loved, rejoiced, grieved, survived... we have shared our lives. I can't imagine what life would have been without her. I don't even want to! I do want to wish her Happy Birthday, because it's tradition to say it on the 30th of January, and I'll say it again tomorrow since that's the official day. To see an older birthday post, with more photos, go HERE!

Day 29 - Beginnings, Sunday Morning

2012-01-29T23:58:00.007-07:00

Automaton from the Franklin Institute

Below is my piece for the Sunday Scribblings prompt, action. One of my favorite weekend programs is Sunday Morning on CBS. Today they did a segment with Martin Scorsese about the movie Hugo, and the inspiration behind it. They also did a section about the history of automatons. One was featured in the movie.

It was fascinating to see what these mechanical "people" could do. My favorite was one that could write a poem in English and in French. It is part of an exhibit at the Philadelphia Franklin Institute. See the Sunday Morning Segment HERE. I really enjoyed learning about these machines. I hope you enjoy it too. Here's a little poem about automatons.

Pen moves on paper
An action making words
Lifeless hand creates

Day 28 - Beginnings, Sidelined

2012-01-28T18:06:00.001-07:00

It's early evening, and my well-laid plans for the day got sidelined. Not by any person or event. I just misplaced my initiative. Do you ever start a project and find you get bogged down before you've barely begun? That's what happened today. I've been treading water all day long. Boxes half-filled. Dishwasher not loaded. Baking and laundry not done. Don't ask me what I did get done. I couldn't tell you for sure.

Well ok, to be honest, I did spend some time chatting and laughing with my boys. And I watched a movie, read the paper, worked on the crossword, got caught up on FB posts, peeked at Pinterest...
Is it any wonder I didn't make it through my to-do list?
Sigh... oh well, tomorrow is another day...

Day 27 - Beginnings, The Help

2012-01-27T23:52:00.002-07:00

I just spent the past two and a half hours watching The Help. It's been a long while since a movie touched me in quite that way. Movies have often dealt with the race issues in our history, but only a few stood out to me. The 1974 film, The Autobiography of Miss Jane Pittman was one of those. Cicely Tyson was magnificent. It was both heartbreaking and inspiring. In 1985, The Color Purple broke my heart again. The Help is another one of those. It was a joy to see Cicely Tyson again, as Constantine, and Viola Davis was amazing as Aibileen. It was a different kind of story. One where you saw good and bad on both sides, but it felt like goodness won. No, it didn't tie it up in a pretty package as if everything ended ok, but it left you with a feeling of hope.

My early childhood years were during the turbulent 1960's. Racism was covered on the evening news. It shocked me to see the overt hostility on peoples faces. Brutality of any kind had always frightened me, and I couldn't understand how people could resort to cruelty and violence.

I used to hear people say things like, "I just don't see color." I do see color. I want to see it. I want to see all our differences, and glory in them. I want to be seen for who I am. When we look at the world around us, most of the greatest beauty is in the differences in textures and colors. Craggy mountains, smooth blue waters, sky, clouds, fire and rain. It's the kaleidoscope of differences that shock and thrill us with their wonder. Seeing people is like that too. Some are comforting, some bring smiles, others leave us breathless with their beauty. Our common bond is the most important thing. We are human, we have heart and soul and spirit. I wish that was enough to stop the hatred and injustice that still exists in our world. It isn't yet, but I still have hope.

© 27JAN12 ajj

28JAN12 - NEW NOTE... From a thread on FB, I discovered a lot of people who felt the movie minimized the race issue. Some were even highly offended by it and felt it continued to perpetuate racism. I didn't get that from it. I thought it was a blend of drama and humor, that tried to look at both sides. My hope is always that our world continues to grow toward more understanding and peace. Please leave comments, negative or positive. I always have room to learn from others. Wishing you peace!

Day 26 - Beginnings... Just missed my deadline

2012-01-27T00:13:00.002-07:00

Well, it's actually Day 27. I've missed my first deadline since starting this challenge. So I'll talk about what caused this... procrastination. It's a bad habit that I'm constantly fighting to overcome. Even though I know it's extremely inconsiderate, even rude, to be late, I find I am often arriving well past the expected hour. It's not intentional. Sometimes it speaks of my reluctance to leave my home. I'm uncomfortable in many social situations, so I delay getting ready to go. I also can't decide if I'd just be happier canceling. Usually when I do arrive, I have a wonderful time. It's just a matter of getting past the anxiety.

I procrastinate on my own projects too. It used to be, the excitement of a looming deadline would be enough to carry me through. I'd get finished, just in the nick of time. I know I don't have the same energy levels these days. I still feel the adrenaline rush, but rarely make the deadlines. There is only one solution. That is to change my ways, forget about the fun of racing to the finish, and just enjoy a slower pace. I'm now 13 minutes past my deadline. I'll do better tomorrow! I promise!

Day 25 - Beginnings, My Love of Vinyl Records

2012-01-25T14:18:00.001-07:00

You already know I'm one of those people that likes to keep everything. That includes vinyl records! A few years ago, I made myself sell a bunch of my old favorites at a yard sale. Mistake! I miss those albums, and they didn't take up much space. Some have never been released on CD, so that music is just gone.

Do you remember your first record album? Mine was one by the Chipmunks. Later on, I was given a storybook album of "Goldilocks & The Three Bears" and a Perry Como Christmas album. I still love Perry Como! My mom gave me a stack of 45's when I was about 8 or 9. My favorite of those was the Kingston Trio "It Takes A Worried Man". My sis and I used to play it on all the different speeds, trying to sing it hyper fast and high pitched or very slow with deep bass voices. Often our cousins were over to join in on the singing. We knew how to create our own fun! Pause my playlist (over on the sidebar), and have a listen to this old favorite of mine!

Over the years my collection grew to include Fleetwood Mac, Dolly Parton, Neil Young, Barbra Streisand, Emmylou Harris, The Gatlins, The BeeGees, Heart, Nat King Cole, James Taylor... I could go on and on. I loved music. I had everything from rock to country to gospel, and it all started with that first Chipmunks album.

© 25JAN12 ajj

Day 24 - Beginnings, Finding Joy

2012-01-24T18:14:00.000-07:00

Today has been a beautiful one. Not the weather, it's been overcast and very cold. Just something about the day. Maybe it's because I woke up feeling good. My head cold is waning, and I slept much better last night.

My mind has been filled with ideas. Things I want to do, things I'm looking forward to. A visit from my sister-in-law in a couple of weeks. My lil sis and one of my best friends have birthdays coming up. That means a lunch or dinner out with each of them! I talked to my husband about some craft projects I want his help with. That may mean buying myself a couple of tools, but it will be fun! He thought it sounded like fun too. I'll keep you posted on this.

I've also been thinking about my journey with my faith. I hit a crisis a few months back. It felt like I might never recover, but I did. I was reading this post today, Talking To God. That's how it is for me. Things hit, and maybe send me reeling, but I always have God to turn to. It doesn't mean that life is always rosy and wonderful. It does mean I can find joy, in even the darkest of times. Hoping you are finding the joy in your life!

Day 23 - Beginnings, One of Those Days

2012-01-23T23:43:00.000-07:00

I've started this post three times now. Maybe this is one of those days where "if you can't say somethin' nice, don't say nothin' at all" is the rule to go by. It was a very long Monday, and it was definitely "one of those" kind of days. The kind of day where roadblocks seem to pop up at every turn. A dreary kind of day that started grey and rainy.

Do you know what you do with that kind of a day? You either turn it around, or relax and go with it. Sometimes just starting a new project, or getting out of the house, will get my energy going in a new, positive direction. Other times, it pays to just settle in. Settling in was my choice for today. I put on my comfiest clothes, warmed up leftover pizza, fluffed a pile of pillows on the sofa, and watched MI-5 from my Netflix Queue. There's nothing like a little espionage, with British accents, to make the hours fly by. I can't say it was a productive day, but it was a nice little escape from reality. Tomorrow will be soon enough to get back to that big to-do list.

Day 22 NaBloPoMo - Beginnings, Plus Sunday Scribblings - Possible

2012-01-22T20:24:00.001-07:00

The possibilities seemed endless when they were young. Life was just beginning, stretching out before them with dozens of adventures and dreams to choose from. So how did they get here? A mortgage more than double what their home was worth, kids long gone from the nest, and still not living the life they once imagined. Jenny and Doug looked at each other across the kitchen table.

"Where do we go from here?" she asked.

"I wish I knew. I can't believe everything is gone. Job, credit, assets. We can't survive on what you're bringing in." he dropped his head into his hands. Jenny sat quietly, thoughtfully looking at her husband. "Well, I've been thinking about something for a while. You know how we always dreamed of traveling? Why not just let the bank have this place, sell off everything we own, and just go for it?" she waited.

Slowly Doug raised his head, they locked eyes, and sat in silence for a couple of minutes. Then he started to smile and she smiled back. "I didn't lose all my retirement. If we're careful, we could stretch it out for quite a while. The motor home is paid for and it's still in great running condition. Gas would be expensive, but this might just work." he paused, "The kids will think we've lost our minds."

"Let them. They're all grown up and have their own lives to worry about. This is about us. What's best for you and me!"

Their smiles grew wider, and they began to laugh. For the first time in years, they had a bit of hope. An idea for a fresh start. If they just took the chance, anything was possible.

© 22JAN12 ajj

Day 21 - Beginnings, Tenacity

2012-01-21T09:20:00.001-07:00

Morning began too soon, after a very restless night. It's a rainy Saturday. The gorgeous snow we had, got rained away in two days time. Bogus Basin, our local ski resort, finally got to open though. They normally open about Thanksgiving time, so people with jobs connected to skiing have had a rough year, as well as those who make their living plowing roads. In these tough times, hardships seem to keep getting more difficult. But, the beginning of 2012 gave us some snow in the hills and a bit of hope.

If I were a pessimist... funny, my husband often calls me "Ms. Negativity"... a little name picked up from our years of watching Home Improvement... anyhooo, I can definitely go there. I blame it on my love of fiction, and my inner "girl scout"! I like to create horrific scenarios and then figure out how I'd get out of them. If only I could get paid for that... wait, some people do get paid for that! They're called writers! So I need to get myself to stick with a story idea, long enough to evolve it into a book. There's the trick. Talent is important, but sometimes I think tenacity outweighs talent. Not a stretch, considering some of the books I've seen published. So, while I hope I have a talent for writing, what I really need is some tenacity. That's my word for the day. Tenacity! It has a nice ring to it!

Day 20 - Beginnings, Baby Gabriel

2012-01-20T21:01:00.000-07:00

On August 28 of last year, Baby Gabriel arrived. While still inside his mother, doctors discovered a challenge. Gabe was diagnosed with HLHS, Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome, a severe congenital heart defect. An additional challenge of Downs Syndrome was verified after his birth.

I don't want to go into all the details of little Gabe's life so far, but I'd love for you to meet his mom, Julia, at her blog. It's called The Four Of Us. I'd also love for you to meet his dad, Nick, at Gabriel's Hope. They are two incredible people. Gabriel is their second child. He has a big brother, Judah. Every day, Nick and Julia pour their love out over their two little guys. They pray with them and over them. They continue to have faith and hope as they walk this journey together. It's a road that might seem impossible to some, but one they welcome, because it is the road they get to travel with their boys.

If you have means to help financially, there are two donation links on my sidebar. One is a fundraiser with items for sale. The other is for direct donation. Even more important, if you are a praying person, pray for this family. Pray for God's hand of healing over this little one... little Gabriel.

Day 19 - Beginnings, Stories via Television

2012-01-19T22:13:00.001-07:00

I have always loved stories. It started with hearing family tales and having books read to me; progressed to doing my own reading and creating my imaginary worlds; then moved into television and movies. I love all forms of story telling, but today I'm taking a look back at television.

The very earliest programs I remember were Romper Room and Captain Kangaroo. The Captain was a particular favorite of mine, and of the characters on his program, I remember Mr. Green Jeans and Mr. Moose the best. It had stories, skits, songs and more, and was fuel for my already active imagination.

Later on, there was I Love Lucy, Walt Disney's Wonderful World of Color, Lassie, Art Linkletter, and more. There weren't endless hours of TV viewing in my childhood. Time in front of the set was limited and many programs were watched by the whole family. My love for comedy, animal stories, mysteries, and action films started back then. Television expanded my universe, much the same as radio did for the previous generation, and the Internet has for today's youth. Television sometimes gets a bad rap, but for me it provided a forum for entertainment, learning, and keeping in touch with the big world that existed beyond my little town.

Day 18 - Beginnings, Snow...

2012-01-18T19:53:00.000-07:00

Do you remember when snow only meant fun? When you didn't have to worry about how bad the roads were, or who would have to shovel the drive? When who had the best snowman, or the fastest innertube, was your biggest concern?

Today we finally got our first winter snow. I have to admit that I wasn't all that excited. I thought about the errands I'd planned to run. At least I didn't have to worry about shoveling the snow. My husband was home today, and our neighbor lady couldn't get her snow blower started. PJ got it going for her, then she offered him the use of it. He was one happy guy!

My broken little Maple doesn't look so sad with snow decorating it's branches...

As the snow continued to fall and those flakes got bigger and bigger, I felt that childlike excitement start up again. It was so beautiful! I snapped a couple of photos, and I'm glad I didn't wait. As is normal for Idaho, the snowflakes began to get tinier and before long it had turned to rain.

Notice the bulbs were confused and had already come up...

Look at how thick the snow lies on the branches...


I love this little tree... and I loved this perfect Snow Day!

Day 17 - Beginnings, Too Early

2012-01-17T16:31:00.000-07:00

Today began too early, around 4 am. I tried to force myself back into sweet slumber, but the internal clock kept ticktickticking away. Persistently, I continued to lie there determined to get my rest. I was unsuccessful. The extra lie-in time actually worked against me. Morning began very efficiently, but that quickly waned. Now it's late afternoon, and I have that "almost bedtime" feeling. My brain is foggy. My body crying out for sleep.
So, goodnight dear friends.
I will begin again tomorrow...

Day 16 - Beginnings, Happy Birthday Dr. King

2012-01-16T20:16:00.000-07:00

When I think of things that have had an impact on my life, my way of thinking, there are a few that certainly stand out. Learning to pray, reading, attending school, family... the basics. Then there are the major news events that changed me; the assassination of John F. Kennedy, of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Vietnam, the fall of the Berlin Wall, Columbine, 9/11... so many more.

Today I want to honor the memory of Dr. King. I was 11 years old when his life was taken. During my childhood there was so much more news coverage available to us, than in previous generations. I saw some of the violence, the inequality, the injustices played out before me. But, I also saw the hope and the dreams of great people like Dr. King. I was privileged to hear some of his words, and those words created in my mind a picture of a world free of hatred. In my innocence, I thought it was just around the corner. All these years later, much has changed. Much has not. We still have to stand up for what is right. For peoples freedoms. We have to work even harder to create that world of peace, equality, harmony and love for one another. To expand our understanding of all people. Not just those who resemble us, and believe like us. We have a responsibility to continue making dreams into reality for the generations that follow us.

© 16JAN12 ajj

Day 15 - Beginnings, Plus Sunday Scribblings Prompt - Tribe

2012-01-15T21:12:00.001-07:00

Below is my piece for Sunday Scribblings. It also falls under my NaBloPoMo prompt. It's about the beginning of a friendship...

Free Degas Image from Dover

It started after a gathering of church ladies. They got to chatting and the minutes turned into hours. There was an instant kinship. Two very different looking women, but cut from the same cloth, from the same roots. As if part of a long, forgotten tribe.

They talked, sharing stories and laughter. This was the beginning of a lifelong friendship. One of sharing their joys, accomplishments, marriages, children, and faith. No secrets were too dark. It was an intimate relationship, as if they were sisters from the same clan, separated long ago, but now reunited. This deep friendship does not disintegrate with age or distance. The thread that binds them together is woven too deeply in heart and in spirit. They both feel such gratitude that, in this life, they found each other, and they hold the belief their friendship will continue into the next.

Day 14 - Beginnings, Fashion & Photography

2012-01-14T13:12:00.001-07:00

I watched a documentary about the career of Bill Cunningham, a photographer and columnist for the New York Times. He's been producing a fashion page in the Times for years. Though I'm not outwardly stylish, I love looking at fashion, imagining what I could get away with wearing. I also have a love for photography. Here is his page for today's edition, On The Street and here is the video of Style On The Street. I'm loving the hats.

Bill's techniques intrigued me. As well as covering fashion events, he just wanders the streets of New York City on a bicycle and snaps photos of everyday people. He's also traveled to other cities around the world, a favorite of his is Paris. I liked what he had to say about fashion, about his photography.

"When David (Montgomery) came to New York a few months later, he brought a little camera, an Olympus Pen-D half-frame. It cost about $35. He said, ''Here, use it like a notebook.'' And that was the real beginning.

I HAD just the most marvelous time with that camera. Everybody I saw I was able to record, and that's what it's all about. I realized that you didn't know anything unless you photographed the shows and the street, to see how people interpreted what designers hoped they would buy. I realized that the street was the missing ingredient.... the difference for me is I don't see the people I photograph. All I see are clothes..." From a New York Times Article, Bill on Bill, found HERE.

I think what intrigued me most about Bill Cunningham, was his disinterest in photographing the "big" name designers and celebrities exclusively. If he doesn't like a look, his camera stays down. He photographs what inspires him. What is beautiful to his eye. He watches for trends. He "collects" them in photographs. He also has a policy of treating his subjects with respect, never ridicule. When an article of his was changed, making fun of the people in his photos, he resigned from that job. Success seemed less important to him than following his heart.

It makes me wonder how much I could accomplish by doing what has meaning to me. Not trying to fit a mold, or preconceived idea that someone else has, but simply doing what brings me joy. Now that is something to consider.

© 14JAN12 ajj

Day 13 - Beginnings, Expanding My Circle

2012-01-13T23:14:00.001-07:00

Sooo, I'm on the 13th day of my pledge, to write every day of this month, for NaBloPoMo (click link on side bar for explanation). Besides writing every day, you are encouraged to read other blogs on the blogroll list. I'm having trouble with that part. I just can't seem to find blogs that I have much in common with, or that tempt me to branch out in a whole new direction.

I've made so many friends through blogging, including artists, crafters, photographers, and a few writers. By writers, I mean those whose first love is writing rather than those who write to share their other loves. I've been told that to be a great writer, you have to spend time reading other great writers. Not to copy, but to gain inspiration and knowledge.

Love of the written word is what brought me to blogging in the beginning. The friendships I've made have kept me coming back. Connecting to people who may be in far off places, but who I share a kinship with in some way. This is reason enough to keep reading new blogs. I'll try another few links from the blogroll, and work to expand my relationships with other writers.

© 13JAN12 ajj

Day 12 - Beginnings, Eye Glasses

2012-01-12T23:41:00.000-07:00

As I sit here, I'm struggling to see the computer screen. I got my new glasses today. Progressive lenses. I can barely see a thing, especially with my right eye. My first pair of progressives was back in 2009. I remember there was an adjustment period with them. They told me to give these a week. If I'm not seeing well by then, I'll get another eye exam. Any of you who love reading like I do, can understand my frustration at the wait. That said, I know there are much worse things I could be going through. I will just have to put on my "happy face" and be patient.

All of this reminded me of my first pair of glasses. I got them in 4th Grade. It was a whole new world for me. Things looked more interesting than I'd originally thought, or at least there were a lot more details and definition. Eyesight is definitely a blessing and something I never take for granted.

Several times today, I was reminded that it's important to be thankful for things in our lives. Gratitude Journals were mentioned on a program this morning. My friend Carol, of Silver Valley Stories, posted about Simple Delights. Goldie Hawn spoke about attitude and the brain/body connection on Dr. Oz this afternoon. I know when I focus on the good, I feel better. It only takes a few minutes out of each day to make a difference. It doesn't erase all the bad in our lives, but it makes it so much more bearable to live with. Sometimes it pays to smile through the tears, to sing through the storm, to look for all the good that is right there in front of us.

Day 11 - Beginnings, In Regard to Relationships

2012-01-11T21:01:00.001-07:00

I can't let today go by without mentioning my grandpa. Today is his birthday and thoughts of him have flooded my mind. With people I love, there are certain signatures that they imprint into my memories. This happens at the beginning of any type of relationship for me. Over time things are added to that list, but there are always the very significant ones. With my grandpa, it is the following:

His laugh - indescribable, infectious, pure joy
His prayers - heartfelt, sincere, coming from a deep commitment and trust
His singing - off-key, joyful, with gusto
His hands - strong yet gentle, raised in worship, reaching for a handshake, turning the pages of his Bible
His eyes - laughing, brightest blue, seeing and still loving

In the beginning... with God, with family, with friends. There are things that imprint, that are written on our hearts. Those are the important things.

Grandpa & Grandma... Love...

Day 10 - Beginnings - Thoughts on Food

2012-01-10T14:41:00.001-07:00

Only thing I disliked more was the chicken spread!

I thought I'd take a look at the beginnings of my relationship with food. My earliest memories consist of Campbells Soup, Wonder Bread, Hot Dogs, Rice a Roni (always served with Mom & I singing "Rice a Roni, the San Francisco treat, Rice a Roni, The flavor can't be beat"), and the occasional pepperoni pizza from the restaurant Mom worked at. Grandma and Grandpa had some interesting items to add to my food memories, Spam, Hominy, Deviled Ham and Chicken Spreads, Canned Sardines, and Chung King Chicken Chow Mein.

Loved: Wonder Bread, Soup, Hominy, Hot Dogs, Rice a Roni, Pizza, & Sardines

Hated: Spam, Deviled Ham, Deviled Chicken, & Chung King Chow Mein

Couldn't find a photo of the whole sardines

Don't get me wrong, Mom and Grandma both made some wonderful meals. Grandma was an especially good cook, but times were lean and sometimes the budget couldn't afford a nice roast or chicken. It was called making the best of the situation. Most of these foods were inexpensive, though I don't know about the Sardines. Grandpa would buy them occasionally and share with me. They were the tiny, whole ones, packed in oil. They came in those cans with the metal key! Do you remember those? I loved it when I got to be the one to pull off the key, place it in the slot, and turn, turn, turn until the lid pealed open! Many things came in those "key" cans. Once in a while, we even got a big ham in a can.

Mixed memories of Spam... not all bad.

I remember a picnic where mom served our hotdogs on white Wonder Bread, ketchup oozing through the soft bread. I was about 5, and I thought it was delicious and finger lickin' messy-good! Grandma would take hotdogs, slice down the middle but still connected, dip in her homemade pancake batter, and pan fry. I loved those! She also did the same with the hated Spam, and it became acceptable dinner fare for me.

We ate as the budget dictated. Most of our foods were fresh, and you didn't toss a potato because it had grown "eyes" or had a bad spot. You cut away the bad, and tossed the rest into the stew pot. Bones from the ham, chicken or roast were simmered and made into soup stock. Everything that could be used was used. I feel a little shame that I've allowed myself to be so finicky and wasteful at times. Another Resolution... Be Less Wasteful!

I hope this brings back some of your early food memories.

© 10JAN12 ajj

Day 9 - Beginnings, Still Writing

2012-01-09T23:57:00.003-07:00

I'm still on track with my daily writing goal, but getting in just under the wire today. When I decided to make the commitment and join NaBloPoMo for the month of January, I worried about letting myself down. You know, failed resolutions and all that. What I'm finding is, the words are coming easier each day.

Writing is something I love to do, and when it stopped coming effortlessly, I felt a little lost. Once I got past the block, it became fun again! I've been working on my book ideas. The strange thing about that is, for the first time in many years I feel like I may be on to something good. Something people may want to read. Time will tell.

Before I stop for today, please check out two important links on my sidebar. One is a fundraiser for Baby Gabriel. The photo is a link to items available for sale, with profits going to help with his medical expenses. You can read about him and his family at The Four of Us.

The other link is a fundraiser for the documentary, Finding the American Dream. Click on the link to read what Idaho filmmaker, Will Schmeckpeper, hopes to accomplish with this film. He loves writing and directing, and is trying to make a living doing what he loves. He wants to find the answer to a question we all have these days, "What happened to the American Dream?" There are only a few days left to meet the fundraising goal through Kickstarter.

© 09JAN12 ajj

Day 8 - Beginnings, Sorting Christmas - Plus The Sunday Scribblings Word Prompt - Normal

2012-01-08T19:10:00.001-07:00

The New Year has truly begun. I finally took down my Christmas tree. I've been going through my huge collection of ornaments and weeding out many. I find I'm tired of mass produced plastic or resin ornaments. I'll keep a few sentimental Hallmark pieces, but many are going to find a new home!

I plan to spend some time creating handmade ornaments for next years tree. I saw a cute idea on a decorating show that I'm going to try. If it works out, I'll post photos. If it doesn't... well, I'll probably never mention it again! I'll also be doing a little bit of Etsy and blog shopping for handmade creations. My budget being what is is right now, it will be a very tiny bit of shopping.

Following is a short piece I did for the Sunday Scribblings Prompt, Normal...

What do you really see, when you look at me
I am not your normal, run of the mill kind of woman
My style is undefined, eclectic, ok... it's weird
My laugh is sometimes much too loud
And even my friends say I talk expansively
Which is apparent to me, when folks wander off
While I remain mid-sentence,
rambling perhaps, but singed just a touch
because I hoped my words would be meaningful
or at least entertaining
Normal I am not, but are you

© 08JAN12 ajj

Day 7 - Beginnings - On Faith

2012-01-07T15:25:00.002-07:00

I've been thinking about faith. It has been part of me for most of my life. I was baptized in water as an infant, but my faith began a few years later. It was the day I recognized that I could talk to God, and I felt He was hearing my prayers.

As a small child, I heard prayers being said and was prayed with. I wasn't sure exactly how I should pray. I had a little book of prayers that I loved. It held all kinds of prayers for children. One night I took it to bed with me. I propped it open on my pillow, elbows on each side of it, hands folded. With head bowed and peeking through my fingers, I began to read, Now I lay me down to sleep, I pray the Lord my soul to keep, If I should die before I wake, I pray the Lord my soul to take. As I read those simple words, I felt that God was there with me, listening. Not only listening, but caring.

After that night, I began to speak to God from my heart. I remember the night I prayed God would let me live with my Grandma and Grandpa. I loved my momma so much, but she worked long hours, and perhaps I was picking up on her unhappiness. Something had changed. I didn't know it for a long time after, but my mother had cancer. God answered my prayer in a matter of days. Momma sat me down and asked if I'd like to live with my grandparents. I was filled with joy and excitement! It was my first palpable answer to prayer! God had heard me! He became real to me in a way that I'd not known before.

Every person's faith has a beginning point. A defining place that stays in the core of their being. No matter how many trials have come my way, I still find peace through my faith. It carries me through the storms of life and increases my joy in the tranquil times.

© 07JAN12 ajj

Day 6 - Beginnings, Will have to wait

2012-01-06T23:21:00.001-07:00

Today began too early after a rather sleepless night. I got up and drove my youngest to a dental appointment. It was a sunny, cold morning and it felt good to be out. When I got back home, I just couldn't seem to get my thoughts together. I finally sat down about an hour ago to write. Nothing came to mind. I visited Facebook and a couple other sites. Listened to some music. Now I'm nodding off. Sometimes you just have to know when to quit. It's time to throw the towel in, get some sleep, and begin again tomorrow! Goodnight dear friends...

Day 5 of Beginnings - My New Obsession

2012-01-05T12:55:00.000-07:00

I recently got hooked on PINTEREST. It began with seeing the little button on some fellow blogger's sidebar. Before long a couple of my FB friends were talking about it, so I wandered over to check it out. I love it! It's like a combination of collecting, list making, bulletin boards, or saving pages from favorite magazines, all combined in one place.

I can visualize things I dream about like travel, art, and photography. There are ideas on home decor, cooking, crafts, fashion, and so much more. I've found images of things I remember from my childhood. There are photos of my current style of decorating and photos of my dream style. It's had the effect of waking up parts of my personality and history that I'd forgotten about.

Today I found an image of vintage Bingo cards. It took me right back to my mom's tiny kitchen when I was about 6 years old. I was seated at the table with a Bingo card and some buttons. The numbers were being called out over the radio. The sun was streaming in through the small window over the sink. Beside the sink, on the wall, was a little Dutch girl memo pad that I'd made at school. Her apron was the note pad and above it was a paper tube with a short pencil in it. Those little pencils that used to come with board games. My momma loved that memo pad. My new hobby took me on a surprise visit back to my childhood. I can't wait to see where it will take me tomorrow.

© 05JAN12 ajj

Day 4 - Beginnings, Hoarding

2012-01-04T12:11:00.002-07:00

Here I am at Day 4 of NaBloPoMo, Beginnings. See the link on my sidebar for more information.

Today was the beginning of my resolution to regain order in my home. For those who don't know, I am a hoarder. Before you all pass out, because I know you've seen those TV shows or the commercials... NO, I do not have rotting food in my fridge, dead animal carcasses, racoons living in my house (aka Grey Gardens). In fact, I don't have any pets at this time, though that will change one day. I do have an overabundance of "stuff" that I have collected over the years. Even with donating box after box of things to charities, I still have excess.

My love of books has taken over the house. I am going to stop buying and start reading what I have. The best-loved will stay. Those that are a one-time fun read will be sold or donated to a library.

I have baskets, boxes, drawers, and shelves filled with things that I plan to use for art and craft projects. If I have not created a piece of art by July, I will be having a big yard sale so someone else can dream of being artsy/craftsy. Even if I do actually start creating pieces, all that good junk needs to be labeled and organized.

I've been giving away family keepsakes, knickknacks, photos, etc. to other family members I know will treasure them. I've had to ask myself, how much can one old girl enjoy? Really. I have dreams of simplifying. And yes, it's been on my resolution list before. The difference is that my heart is ready for a big change. One of these days, there will be photos to document the changes.

Now, about those other resolutions... yes, there are a couple but this is the big one for 2012! Simplify, Organize, and Enjoy the Journey.

© 04JAN12 ajj

Day 3 - Beginnings, Art & Books

2012-01-03T13:16:00.002-07:00

My love of books started very young. I'm not sure of my exact age, but one of the first was a very large picture book. They were called My Big Little Golden Books and measured about 12 by 9 inches. Mine was called Wonders of Nature and I loved it. The illustrations were by Eloise Wilkin, and they were beautiful.

This was the beginning of my love affair with books and art. Over the years, I've read hundreds or possibly thousands of books. When my grandpa couldn't get me to the library, I would pick up the Childcraft Encyclopedias. I read them from cover to cover. I loved reading so much, I read about subjects I wasn't naturally drawn to, such as science. When I'd exhausted all of my books, and my sister's, I started reading books from my grandparents shelves. This was everything from Go Tell It On The Mountain by James Baldwin to The Yearling by Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings. Then I moved on to magazines. We always had Better Homes & Gardens, Readers Digest, and National Geographic.

Stories opened a new world for me. One of travel, adventure, and imagination. These days I spend much of my reading time online, visiting other bloggers, and continuing my happy journey with the written word.

© 03JAN12 ajj

Day 2 - Beginnings, My Journey with Writing

2012-01-02T06:27:00.003-07:00

Last night I made a list of life events to look at for the NaBloPoMo prompt, Beginnings. One that came immediately to mind was the beginning of this blog. It began in the spring of 2008. A dear friend of mine had a blog I'd been reading. She knew how much I enjoyed writing and encouraged me to blog. It was so foreign to me. It took a while just to get through the setup and then the writing began.

I've written about a lot of things since that beginning. Mostly about family and my daily life. I was writing for myself and also for my mom, who had passed on. Back in the 90's I'd started a book. It was intended to be a romantic mystery along the lines of a Victoria Holt or Phyllis Whitney. I had written about six chapters and let my mom read it. She was so excited about the book and couldn't wait for me to finish. During that time, my dad was fighting to survive cancer. He didn't make it. I felt such guilt that I'd been busy writing, instead of spending more time with him. I set the book aside. It was only meant to be for a while, but I never went back to it. Mom would ask about it from time to time, encouraging me to finish but it didn't happen.

I satisfied my writing urges with a monthly church newsletter. That worked for a season of my life. My friend Carol, of Silver Valley Stories, had been doing our church newsletter. When she moved back to Northern Idaho, she recommended me for the job. It was a blessing in so many ways. Carol is also the friend who inspired me to begin blogging. When my days doing the newsletter ended, I had my blog to satisfy those writing urges. I've done some poetry and short stories, as part of Sunday Scribblings, as well as sharing about my family life. As I continue to write about "Beginnings" this month, I will have to look back at that first book attempt. It may be time to dust it off, or maybe it's time for a brand new beginning.

© 02JAN12 ajj

Day 1 - Beginnings, A New Commitment...

2012-01-01T18:20:00.006-07:00

Bright new beginnings,

like bubbles rising to the top or

balloons set adrift on the breeze.

You don't know where they

will go or how far.

The journey is the adventure.

I've decided to participate in NaBloPoMo (National Blog Posting Month) for the month of January. The prompt is "Beginnings" and this is a new beginning for me. I'm making a commitment to write every day of the month. Over the past few weeks, my mind revisited some of the stories rattling around in my head. I just couldn't seem to find my words when I sat down to write. I'm hoping this exercise will get me back on track with blogging, Sunday Scribblings, and my writing in general.

I noticed a friend had signed up for NaBloPoMo and it inspired me to push myself. During the month, I plan to share my thoughts on other Beginnings in my life. I hope you'll enjoy taking this journey with me. If you want to give this a try for yourself, go HERE! You have until January 5th to sign up. Another blog with writing prompts is Sunday Scribblings. Today's prompt is "New" and you may enjoy reading what their participating writers have to share.

© 01JAN12 ajj

Hello Friends...

2011-12-30T21:02:00.000-07:00

Christmas has come and gone. It's been a busy month. Every time I thought about posting, something always seemed to take priority. A lot of things went by the wayside, but my family had a joyful, quiet Christmas.

Like many of you, I'm looking forward to the new year. I have expectations of better things ahead. I'm not alone when I say, this has been a difficult year for us in finances, health, and the unexpected. It has also been a year of growth. I've had to make the best of every situation, sometimes finding new ways of looking at life. Some things were lost, some set aside, and some were restored. My faith has been strengthened through it all. Despite all the negative voices, I believe in a bright future! Sometimes it's nice to just turn off the TV, the radio, the noise, and spend some hopeful time in quiet contemplation.

I'm wishing you renewed faith, quiet moments, the love of family & friends, and a New Year filled with peace.

To Dwell In Primitive Thymes...

2011-12-10T13:13:00.003-07:00

I've followed TDIPT, To Dwell In Primitive Thymes, for a long while. It is a gathering of artists, who love, create, and sell primitive art. A while back, I entered a drawing on their blog. There were some really lovely pieces of art. One in particular caught my eye, and to my surprise, I won that piece! Here is a photo of it:

I love this Santa painting! I may leave it on display year round. It has so many sweet details... the red cardinals, the lambs in Santa's bag, the little bunny sitting by the tree... Love it!

A huge "Thank you" to the artist, Sue Nagle of Paint in Thyme! To see more of her beautiful artwork, go HERE. I also want to thank TDIPT for hosting this amazing Giveaway! To check out the other artists of TDIPT, click THIS! Warning... you may see something that you just can't live without! Have a glorious day!

Check Them Out...

2011-12-10T03:27:00.001-07:00

There are a couple of blogs I've been enjoying lately. The first one is called The Four of Us. It's written by a young Christian mother, Julia McAllister, who has had a lot to deal with. It's definitely worth a read. Her December 9th post titled The "Pause" Moment is a beautiful reflection on some of the things that have happened in her family's life.

Another blog I love is Forever in First, by Tammy McMorrow. Yes, she's the same Tammy that sings on the Christmas CD, Tidings, that I've shared with you. Tammy has been a first grade teacher for 18 years. Her love of teaching shines through in her posts. She shares creative ideas that have worked with her first graders, as well as some sweet and humorous moments that have happened. Scroll down and read her post called Inspired to RACK and see the list of activities she has her students do. The point is to teach them how it feels to show kindness without expecting anything in return.

I hope these two ladies inspire you as much as they have inspired me!

Another New Video...

2011-12-08T22:26:00.000-07:00

This video has a slide show featuring the families of Laurie and Tammy.

You can hear more of their music on YouTube,

and you can download the album at iTunes or CDbaby.com!

Enjoy!

It's December, and Changes Just Keep Coming...

2011-12-05T13:37:00.003-07:00

My heart is going so many directions today. I'm just getting over a flu bug. It decided to hit the day I brought my husband home from the hospital. He had two hernias repaired. He's been in quite a bit of pain. You forget how much you use some of those lower abdominal muscles. He's doing much better today, as am I. It's strange to have PJ out of commission, he's one of those guys that rarely gets sick and always likes to be busy. Now that he's in less pain, maybe he can enjoy the two weeks at home. He'll have time to caught up on some reading and watch some of those movies he hasn't gotten to see.

My youngest son received his High School Diploma this fall. It was a long journey for him, overcoming illness and delays. We still haven't planned a celebration, but hope to do that in the spring. He is looking at schools and making decisions on what he wants to do. He is still very interested in computer engineering, producing videos, and continuing with his Cello. Recently, he built his own PC! It has all the bells and whistles that he's always wanted. He's also started a fitness plan and is dropping weight! I may have to hire him as my trainer. Maybe after the holidays are over with.

My youngest, building his own computer!

My oldest son was living with us for the past few months. He found a roommate that he gets along with very well, and they found their dream apartment. It's in the upstairs of an old home. It's so nice. He moved over Thanksgiving weekend. I'm thankful that he's just in the next town. He already told me he plans to come to our home for Christmas Eve and spent the night! I'm glad of that. I'm not quite ready to give up my Christmas mornings with my boys. I will probably never be.

My niece leaves for Seattle on Friday morning. I'm going to miss her so much. She's been my Gilmore Girls and movie buddy. It just won't be the same without her around. I'm definitely going to feel it on Christmas Eve, which is our traditional holiday time together. She's rooming with her sis and friends, so she already has a home waiting. She'll be joining the music scene in Seattle, and I hope this will jump start a career for her. She has awesome talent!

Speaking of Christmas, I have to share this YouTube video. This is my cousin, Laurie and honorary cousin, Tammy. They created a Christmas CD last year, and this is one of the songs from it. Don't forget to pause my Playlist first. This is one of my very favorite Christmas songs. I hope it blesses you.

Christmas, Fruitcake, and Healing...

2011-11-30T20:51:00.000-07:00

Those who know me well already know this, I haven't been able to celebrate "Christmas in my heart" for the past few years. I did celebrate, but the deep joy was missing. Maybe it was my health, or maybe it was too much loss, I'm not really sure. I would make plans and not follow through. Promises to bake all the traditional dishes, even to the point of buying nuts, spices, fruits, etc. only to toss or donate after the holidays were over with. Plans to visit friends and go to concerts all cancelled at the last minute. Using my messy house as an excuse not to invite folks in. So, when I had my husband buy all the ingredients for his mother's fruitcake recipe, I think I saw a little eye roll and heard a bit of a sigh.

Well, tonight the fruitcake is in the oven! I never truly appreciated the work involved. The batter is heavy, so heavy that my big spoon broke right in two! That did not deter me. I stirred the 7 cups of flour, 1 1/2 cups of butter, the sour cream, the brandy, the fruit, the nuts. It reminded me of kneading bread! My arms are so tired, but I got it all in the oven just in time to sit and watch the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree light up! I had been listening to all the beautiful music while I worked.

I never really cared for fruitcake (sorry Grandma), but my mother-in-law's recipe was unique. I'm hoping my first attempt will do her justice. It's been a lot of years since my family had Grandma Jahner fruitcake. I plan to make a few more treasured recipes during the next three weeks. And yes, I will be starting a "diet" after the holidays. For now, I'm going to celebrate all that is good and fun and delightful!

"I will honour Christmas in my heart, and try to keep it all the year. I will live in the Past, the Present, and the Future. The Spirits of all Three shall strive within me."
- A Christmas Carol, Charles Dickens

Lines...

2011-11-24T10:54:00.000-07:00

For the past couple of days, people have been lining up for the midnight sales that start tonight. One part of me says they're crazy, even greedy. They could be spending the day with family. On the other hand, maybe it's the only chance they have to give their family the things many of us take for granted. Nice dishes, a coffee maker, toys for their child's Christmas, a television set, linens, clothing. As I sit here this morning typing on this PC that I am thankful to have, sipping a hot cup of coffee from the Keurig, and listening to the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade in the background, I realize that I am abundantly blessed. I shouldn't judge those who are willing to camp out, in the freezing cold, to get a little more of their American dream.

As I wish you Happy Thanksgiving, I'm so grateful for my family and for all we have. Many people this holiday season are without jobs, standing in food lines, wondering what the future will bring. In today's paper there is a photo of a young soldier in uniform, with his family, standing in a food line. It's wrong, so very wrong.

I'm praying for a light, and an answer, in this current economic darkness. May God bless each of you today, and fill your homes with peace and love.

I'm still here...

2011-11-21T23:46:00.000-07:00

Busy life these days. I've been getting over a cold, working on projects, making Christmas shopping lists. My 55th birthday came and went. It was a good day, other than being a bit under the weather. This birthday made me very reflective about my life, because my dad passed away at 55 from cancer. When it happened, I thought he was way too young to be gone. Nothing has made that more clear than reaching 55 myself. I have so much life I still want to live... so many things waiting to be done. It's a wake-up call to get with it. Make time for the people I love. Do the things I've been putting off. Appreciate every day that I'm given. I'm so thankful for my life, my family, my friends. Wishing each of you a Happy Thanksgiving!

What Happened To October?

2011-11-04T16:16:00.000-06:00

Oh my! Time flew away while I was busy enjoying the warm days, crisp nights, and colorful leaves. I woke up today and it really is November! It's been raining/snowing/raining/cold/wintry, and I just wasn't ready for that. Oh well, I have started my Christmas shopping and list making. I took down the Halloween stuff and put up the Thanksgiving decor. I'm ready for whatever comes!

One wonderful thing that happened this week... my youngest son got all the pieces and parts delivered yesterday and sometime in the wee hours of the morning, he built his own computer! The best part, he's selling me this one at a great discount, so now I have my own PC again. I'm thrilled!

Warm thoughts going out to all the folks with outside jobs, like my husband. He is one of the dedicated employees of the Post Office who will deliver your mail, no matter what the weather! It is totally worth the price of a stamp to me! I love getting mail... real mail... the kind you hold in your hand. Post cards, letters, packages, fun!

Oh, and while I'm talking about the Post Office, I just have to rant a bit...
I'm heard a lot of comments about packages being destroyed by letter carriers. You would not believe how poorly people wrap packages to be sent through the mail. Please wrap it like it's going to be tossed into a truck, onto a plane, stacked under hundreds of other boxes... not like you're hand-carrying it to Grandma's house in your own car. By the time precious boxes of goodies reach your own letter carrier, they have traveled many miles under rigorous conditions. And please be good to your carriers. My husband has delivered everything from bills and birthday cards to live chicks and the ashes of somebody's loved one. He takes pride in his job. He watches out for the people on his route, especially the elderly. The following quote became part of the USPS 2001 Comprehensive Statement on Postal Operations. It's a creed my husband lives by.

We are mothers and fathers. And sons and daughters. Who every day go about our lives with duty, honor and pride. And neither snow, nor rain, nor heat, nor gloom of night, nor the winds of change, nor a nation challenged, will stay us from the swift completion of our appointed rounds. Ever.

Reflections...

2011-10-07T12:10:00.000-06:00

Autumn is always a time of reflection for me. Today is especially poignant. October 7th was my grandparents anniversary. They married very young. They weathered so many things that life tossed at them, and made a decision to stay together, through the wonderful and through the sad. That decision wasn't made once, on that long ago wedding day. It was made over, and over again. When the storm winds came, when doubts assailed, when tears fell like autumn rain, they made the decision to stay.

As I look back on my life, I can see where their example influenced my decisions to stick it out. Not easy, but it was right for me. I'm not saying some folks shouldn't part ways. I've seen lives begin again, in beautiful ways, when two people realize they are creating more pain than joy. For me, working through the hard times has made me a stronger, happier person. I have a husband who really knows me. He knows me better than my own family does, and so far, he hasn't run screaming from the house. I am so blessed.

On this crisp, cloudy, beautiful autumn day, I can say that I am happy for the journey. For all of it! Bumps in the road, storms, tears and all. The hard times have made the sweet, even better. Remind me of that, the next time I'm having "one of those days" and am feeling inconsolable. Sunshine and cool breezes are just around the corner. God doesn't leave us... we leave Him... just tell me to turn around and look. He is right there. Love is right there, and it was there all the time.

Autumn is coming...

2011-09-16T17:29:00.001-06:00

After a night of rain and thunder, today has been mild and much cooler. I've been longing for Autumn, and it now feels like it's just around the corner. I hope we get a long, drawn out, fall season. I love when the leaves stay on for weeks, all yellows, oranges, and golds!

I've been trying to get stuff gathered for a big yard sale, but keep running out of steam. It doesn't matter though, I'm getting it boxed up and if there's no sale, the Idaho Youth Ranch, St. Vincent's and ARC will all benefit!

I'm going to be looking into getting a new PC or maybe a Mac. Can't decide which way to go. I use mine for writing, photos, and internet, so I want tons of space and high speed. Any suggestions?

Well, BSU football starts in half an hour, so I'd better get busy. I need to prep some healthy snacks before game time!

Time passed so very quickly...

2011-09-14T15:01:00.000-06:00

It's been a busy week, but I just wanted to say "Hello" to all! My oldest son celebrated his "quarter century" birthday on Monday. How can that be? It seems like yesterday I was waiting for his arrival.

And soon he'd arrived...

I can't post all the photos that are precious to me, but here's one I love...

My son has given us so many moments of Joy... and still does! He makes this world a brighter, better place, and I am a better person for having known him. I am blessed!

September...

2011-09-02T10:01:00.003-06:00

September arrived yesterday without a lot of fanfare. The temperatures dropped a bit, and I'm loving it. I'm still pretty much housebound, and that would be fine if I could just get my house clean and in order. Seems like every project I begin gets stalled. I either get distracted or too tired. I'm really hoping the cooler weather will help kick my energy into high gear.

I posted this on my FB page...

Doctor's office phoned and woke me a couple hours ago. She says, "Your results... Oh, hold on a minute." Waited, waited, waited. Comes back on, "I'll have to call you back." What?!

And, I am still waiting. I am refusing to be anxious, but it does keep trying to creep up on me. Like a scary movie, you don't know what's around the corner. The spooky music is playing, getting a bit louder. Here's hoping it's nothing. Music fades, birds singing happily, all's right with the world.

UPDATE:

Shortly after writing this, I received my second phone call. I tested positive for PML, which means I am no longer a candidate to receive treatment with Tysabri for the Multiple Sclerosis. Now we have to look at the pros and cons of Gilenya, a newer MS medication that's only been out for about a year. This means more blood tests, eye tests, etc., and then approval from my insurance. It will take a month or more.

So, not so much of birds singing happily. The music is still a little scary, and I do not know what is lurking around that next corner. It's still an amazing world, I'm thankful to be living, and there is always hope. I still have hope.

Late Night Poetry...

2011-09-01T02:09:00.001-06:00

Before anyone gets too concerned, I'm doing ok. This poem comes from that sad, dark place that many of us get to at one time or another. Sometimes the words are just there, waiting to be written. I'm not sure why, but maybe it will resonate with you.

The vessel, once beautiful and bright,
is cracked and damaged,
and no longer functions.

She is broken, thoughts
can't be contained and
drift unfettered out and away,
like water disappearing,
leaving her dry and useless.

ajj 01Sept11

More Watching and Waiting...

2011-08-31T16:05:00.000-06:00

My last post was about needing hope and courage in the face of life's storms. While I continue to battle the waves of my own storm, there are so many others out there also trying to stay afloat.

If you have an extra moment today, say a prayer for Gabriel's Heart. You can read about baby Gabriel and his family Here. Pray for his sweet momma too, for strength and for continued peace.

Watching and waiting

2011-08-27T20:18:00.000-06:00

Prayers are going out to our East Coast friends during this terrible storm we're calling Irene.

Storms like this one remind me of storms that come into people's lives. Some are just passing minor events, and then there are those big ones. The ones that do damage, that leave sorrow and devastation in their wake. All we can do when faced with such ferocity, is stand fast and be courageous.

For my friends who are going through personal Irene's, I wish you peace. For those facing this natural monster of a storm, Irene, I pray for your protection and a huge measure of courage.

Melancholy...

2011-08-23T01:50:00.001-06:00

In between moments of fun and the busyness of life, I've had a weird, weepy melancholy the past few days. My grandma's best friend turned 80 on Saturday. I wanted to be there to celebrate with her, but travel is not an option right now. That was also the one year anniversary of my grandma's passing. I guess that added to the emotions.

So many things have happened in my life over this past year. I'm in a place of reflection and self-examination. I have a clearer picture of things I want to accomplish, and I'm hoping to have the strength to get them done. I also know what I'm ready to let go of.

I dusted off my piano the other day and sat down to play. I was shocked at how difficult it is now. Music is one of those things that requires practice to maintain, and I can't remember the last time I played. I wasn't very good, but I discovered it still gives me great joy to make music. I've promised to make more time for the things that give me joy. Playing the piano, reading a good book, spending time with family and friends. All those things and more.

I just found this post by a friend. She shared the poem, The Pleasures of Ordinary Life. It speaks to what I've been feeling. You can find it Here, at Gathering Round the Table.

No Surgery!

2011-08-12T15:21:00.000-06:00

The lesions on my spine are significant, one in particular is responsible for the loss of feeling in my feet and legs. I'm still looking at some nasty MS drugs to stop the progression of this disease, but I do not have to have neck surgery at this time! There are bone spurs in my neck that can be treated with an epidural of steroids. I'll have to do this treatment once a year. I'm also starting physical therapy, which will address the neck problems and the MS. They are going to put me in a class that does exercises in the pool! Nice! Now if I can only find a cute "supersized" swimsuit! Lol!

I have decided I need to try to find work I can do from home. A little extra income would be so nice. Any ideas out there?

Nina Simone is singing "Little Sugar In My Bowl"... it is so bluesy/jazzy/relaxing... My home is nice and cool. Outside it is another blistering "hot sauna" afternoon. I think I'll go watch a little HGTV!

Time For Courage

2011-08-04T13:24:00.000-06:00

I received the results of my MRI last night. My GP phoned me. It was two-fold, spinal cord lesions from the MS and further collapse of the vertebrae in my neck. For me, this means going on some pretty dangerous medication for the MS and surgery on my neck. Not the news I'd hoped for.

I had a few minutes of crying last night, but then I remembered... the women in my family have courage in the face of danger and despair. So I'm grabbing hold of every grain of courage I possess. I may still have moments of tears, but I can survive this too. I have survived so many obstacles in my life. This will not beat me. I am a survivor. My word of the day is Courage. Courage!


Make that "I Can Do It!"

Hot August Days

2011-08-03T13:33:00.000-06:00

We have been having a heat wave, typical for August. It was like stepping into a sauna yesterday. I went out to get my mail earlier, and it was gearing up for more of the same.

Do you live at a slower pace in the hot summer days? I do. The days seem to stretch out so much longer in the heat. I bumped my AC down a notch and enjoyed walking around my house with icy, cold toes for a while. I'm listening to music while I type... Etta James is singing "A Sunday Kind of Love"... so nice! My Snapple Peach iced tea drink just hits the spot right now. I have an urge to pull out a favorite book, curl up on the sofa, and read for hours.

Enjoy the lazy days of summer, soon they'll be just a pleasant memory.

This is an old post...

2011-07-31T11:23:00.000-06:00

I was just thinking of my little brother, Tom, and missing him today. I posted this on his birthday in 2008. It seems unreal to me that he's been gone 11 years now. I hope you enjoy "meeting" him...

http://littlegreygardens.blogspot.com/2008/07/happy-birthday-tommy.html

Summertime is flying by...

2011-07-26T12:34:00.000-06:00

This has been the craziest summer! One unplanned thing after another. Since my last post, we had another pricey disaster...

This is one branch from our willow!

Makes our home look tiny by comparison.

A huge branch from our Willow tree fell! Thankfully, it dropped directly across the back lawn, right between our fence and our patio cover. It did hit our little Maple, which has survived, but it broke off most of the branches on one side. It looks a little sad. Anyway, you would not believe how expensive it is to have a tree removed, and we even had them leave the stump. On the bright side, our yard looks much bigger, and we have a place to create a rock garden!

Paul, getting ready for his flying lesson!

Doesn't my husband look happy? If I had know how tiny the helicopter was going to be, I don't think I could have bought him the lesson. I'm not a fan of flying, and this would have pushed my fear of heights and flying too far. Plus it had no door! I would have taken one look and walked away. He said whenever he shifted his weight he could feel the chopper shift! He wouldn't try "driving" it again... too complicated and touchy, but he loved being up there.

I'm making progress on my summer projects, and must get back to work. I'll try and check in again soon. Until then, I hope you're all having a wonderful summer!

Summer fun...

2011-07-09T12:27:00.000-06:00

Just stopping in for a quick note. Summertime gets so busy, so my blogging often gets put aside. I mentioned before, that we canceled our anniversary trip because of having to buy a new AC unit. Since then, we also had to replace our 16 year old dishwasher and replace our front windshield! Lol! We were definitely not meant to take that trip!

I'm buying my sweetheart an engine for his 52 Chevy. It's "near new" and will be available to put in his car in September! A friend decided his new engine wasn't racy enough and is putting an even more powerful one in. He's selling his to us! I also got a huge discount on a helicopter lesson for Paul. He has always wanted to fly in one, so next week he gets a 30 minute lesson, then a 30 minute flight where he will be allowed to take the controls for a bit. He is so excited!

We have been having fun doing some long neglected home repairs, watching episodes of some of our favorite TV shows (love that streaming video), etc. Paul barbequed some beautiful T-Bone steaks for our anniversary dinner. Delicious!

Earlier this year, I purchased a wooden Chinese Checkers Board, painted and distressed. It hangs above my fireplace in an arrangement. I suddenly remembered my wooden Aggravation Board from my childhood. I got it out, and Paul painted it a flat black. It looks so nice. I plan to add some color to it later on and attach a hanger to it. I'll post a photo when it's done.

Well, gotta get back to all those home improvement projects! Have a wonderful July afternoon!

30 Wonderful Years...

2011-07-05T02:15:00.000-06:00

One of my favorite photos of us...

My sweet husband and I are celebrating our 30th Wedding Anniversary today! It's amazing to reflect on who we were in the beginning, and who we have become over the years. We've had extreme joys, some devastating hardships, and a lot of "every day normal" in between. Somehow we've come through it all, intact and still in love.

I'm not naive enough to think we have any special "magic" that kept us together. It's a mix of love, forgiveness, faith, commitment, and so many other things that just worked for us. And for all of that, I feel grateful, and so blessed! My hope is that we'll still be together, "till death do us part" and if possible, even beyond that.

Honey... thank you for the love, the laughter, for our boys, for your compassion, your strength, and your commitment. Thank you for seeing me... the real me, that nobody else knows. Thank you for continuing to look at me like I'm still that young woman you fell in love with. Thank you for trusting me with your heart, like I trust you with mine.

To my friends, I wish you love... Have a beautiful day!

Got Lemons?

2011-06-29T02:04:00.000-06:00

Do you ever feel that you've just let life throw you off-track? Well, I have. All my grand intentions to do more writing, to get organized, even to go on vacation... everything got side-tracked due to more health issues (I refuse to bore you with details today), family concerns, budget derailments...

I've missed several Sunday Scribblings, and I haven't even gotten back to my other writing. Just too many things going on. Our air conditioning went out during the hottest two days we'd had this summer. Multiple Sclerosis and heat are not a good mix. Thankfully, the same company that installed our furnace a few years back, agreed to come out the day it happened. They had a brand new unit installed in two days time. Right now my feet are too cold, so I had to put on socks!

The only downside of the new AC, is that we've had to cancel our trip to the coast. My husband and I have been to the Oregon Coast twice... once on our honeymoon and once on our 25th Anniversary. This year will be our 30th, and we really wanted to go again. We will, it just will be later than planned. Instead, we have decided to do a few home improvements, be tourists in our own valley, and just have fun here at home! It's called making lemonade, and enjoying it! So, make time to relax, kick your feet up, pour yourself a tall glass, enjoy the sun, and be thankful for the little things...

Write...

2011-06-10T10:27:00.002-06:00

"I'm caught in a dream.
Reality doesn't seem real anymore,

and I'm lost inside my own mind."

Have you ever felt that way? What do you do when life seems overwhelming? Where do you go?

I've always turned to my faith, my family, & my friends. I have also used writing as an outlet. I think it's time for me to get back into my writing. It's always been an escape for me. A release.

"When life gets hard... write!" I pulled out a book I started years ago and began to reread it. Now it's talking to me. It's time to revisit that idea, that place. Time to get serious about my dreams...

I just have to add this quote a friend posted on her wall:

"Read, read, read. Read everything... trash, classics, good, and bad, and see how they do it. Just like a carpenter who works as an apprentice and studies the master. Read! You'll absorb it. Then write. If it is good, you'll find out. If it's not, throw it out the window." ~ William Faulkner

Maybe I've always been afraid to find out that it's just not good enough. I'm over it! Time to get to work and find out!

Sunday Scribblings #268 - Better Late Than Never

2011-06-05T13:45:00.001-06:00

My head is dancing in circles
It's spinning with dreams, thoughts
What could have been
What should have been
Where did days go
How many remain
Will I ever get where I am going
Where my dreams wanted to take me
Is there still time
I hope there's time

© 5Jun2011 ajj

Today's prompt is below. I'm trying to get caught up. Ironically, that fits with this prompt!

Sunday Scribblings #270 - Sweet

2011-06-05T13:11:00.001-06:00

This is my response to the new Sunday Scribblings prompt. It's not my usual poem or piece of fiction. Just some shared thoughts, on where I am in my life, on this particular day...

Church has always played a role in my life, whether I was attending or not. My mother told me I was baptized as an infant, but I neglected to ask where or what denomination. It was most likely in Kellogg, Idaho. It didn't really matter to me, because for as long as I can remember, I spoke to God and felt like He heard me. What I felt for my Creator was sweet, pure, and deep within me.

Mom worked nights and many Sunday mornings, but she often let me walk to a little pink church down the road. I loved Sunday School, until they started putting black marks by my name for the Sundays I missed. My final break with the pink church was when my Sunday School Teacher, and
I use the word teacher lightly here (though I did learn a lesson from her), told me that unless my mom started coming with me, she was going to burn in the fires of Hell! Then she passed around the bag for our offering. I slipped my clenched hand into my pocket, hanging on tightly to my dime. I never went back to that church. I did continue to pray to God each night though.

I'm saying all of this because I'm in an identity crisis with my faith. I've always known who I was, what I believed, and who God was to me. I had my home church, and it remained home to me even when I lived in another state. But everything has changed.

It's not so much that my church changed, though it has. It's more that I have changed. My faith has been challenged... well, actually rocked! I feel like I've been treading water, and I've never been a good swimmer so there is the constant fear of drowning. Of losing myself. So once again, I am home on a Sunday morning, and it feels strange to me. I haven't stopped praying. I still believe. I'm just standing at the metaphorical fork in the road. Neither path looks appealing. Neither calls out to me. So I'm sitting on this grassy knoll, enjoying the sun, until I'm ready to move on.

© 5Jun2011 ajj

Endings...

2011-05-27T07:42:00.000-06:00

We attended my youngest son's final High School Orchestra Concert last night. It was awesome! Lucky 13 plays the cello. He got to riff a bit, on his electric cello, during their last song. Like me, he gets a bit of stage fright... the shaking hands. I played piano, and that kept me from going as far with it as I might have. Singing never scared me as much as playing. He really pushed through it, and he ended up having a great final performance.

His Senior year was taken from him by illness, so instead of graduating last year, he is completing his final classes this summer. He has just two to go, and they will be done at an online High School. The wonderful thing is, all of the delays won't matter a few years from now. As I've told him, it only matters what you're doing today! Don't hang on to regrets of the past. High School will only be a small blip on the map of your life.

I am so proud of him. He played so well last night and with such confidence! Another "era" ends, and it's on to new beginnings...

You gain strength, courage and confidence

by every experience in which you stop

to look fear in the face.

~ Eleanor Roosevelt

Farewell to Oprah...

2011-05-26T00:36:00.000-06:00

I haven't tuned in every day, but I have to admit that Oprah has had an impact on my life over the past 25 years. My oldest son said she's been on the air all his life... he turns 25 this year.

Oprah turned a light on and exposed a lot of inhumanity in our world. She gave a voice to people who had lost their voice to violence, fear, sickness, prejudice... She provided a platform for music and literature and laughter. Oprah added a wonderful diversity to the mundane programming that had been on in the afternoons. It had the feel of those old-time variety shows that I loved as a kid.

She introduced me to many writers, including one of my favorites, Maya Angelou. When I was too ill to do much of anything, I looked forward to what new surprises Oprah would bring.

Whether you loved her, hated her, or were indifferent, there is no denying she will forever remain an iconic figure to a generation. Oprah, I will miss you.

If Life Has Hurt You...

2011-05-21T09:59:00.002-06:00

Pause the Playlist before starting the video...

This speaks to those moments when you feel there's been too much pain, too many disappointments, those you counted on let you down, you've faced unbearable loss, your world came crashing down... Whatever the sorrow... maybe something good will come from it... maybe He still loves and cares... if you can keep on trusting... if you just Believe.

Departures and Arrivals

2011-05-19T08:50:00.001-06:00

The circle of life goes on and on... Today, as one family gathers to say their final goodbyes to a precious daughter, another family gathers to welcome a new life into this world.

Beautiful Elizabeth...

Make-A-Wish moment... Elizabeth & Matt Shadow from Avenged Sevenfold, her favorite band

This past weekend, Elizabeth Sandra, Lizzy, left this life for the next. My heart goes out to her family and friends, with special prayers for her parents, grandparents, and her brothers and sisters. Today will be a hard day for them. They surrounded Elizabeth with their love for 17 years. I pray that even in their pain, they will also feel God's love and peace. I also want to thank those of you who have prayed for her, and are still praying for her family.

Last night, my cousin's daughter had her fourth child, a tiny little girl. Iris Jane, after two of her great grandmothers. She is my aunt and uncle's 6th great grandchild. They say she is both great and grand!

In between the goodbyes and the hellos, a lot of living goes on. This day is a reminder for me, to enjoy each precious minute we have with those we love. To celebrate their lives every single day. And to let those you love, know that you do love them.

We Got Ten!

2011-05-15T22:48:00.000-06:00

Awesome Sunday! We needed it after our sad news yesterday. It started out with my son bending down to pick up the paper and coming face to face with a large black dog. It was lying so still in our flower bed. As I looked, I saw mud and rumpled fur on it's right hip. Looked as if it had been hit by a car. Max brought out a bowl of water and she drank just a little, but did not try to move. I finally got brave enough to pet her (or him) and get the phone number off the license. We then had to wait for animal control. The lady who came was so gentle. We were able to get the dog to it's feet, three of them anyway. And with some assistance, got her into the van. She'll be seen by a vet, while they try to contact the owner.

About half an hour later, my husband comes hurrying in and says, "They're on the move... the ducklings!" We frantically searched for the camera, and headed outside. We live in a high traffic area, with lots of dogs around, so we decided to "escort" our little duck family to the canal. Ten of the thirteen eggs hatched! More than we expected! It was a long journey, because she headed one direction for about a block, but realized there was no way through. Then it was back around and out of the subdivision onto the main road. Passing cars were slowing to take a quick look. A couple dogs coming to lean over the short fence. She was fine with her entourage trailing (now 5 people... husband, both sons, neighbor, and myself), as long as we didn't get too close. Thank goodness for the zoom lens! I hope you enjoy the photos...

My favorite photo... all huddled together...

On the move...

"Stick Together Kids..."

The long walk...

Nature in the city...

"Mom, are we there yet?"

"I'm hungry, I'm tired..."

"We're almost there..."

Making their way down the steep embankment...

Finally, safe at their destination!

Sad News...

2011-05-14T22:00:00.000-06:00

My stepbrothers daughter, Elizabeth, lost her battle with Ovarian Cancer this weekend. She was only 17. She was Elizabeth, Beth, and recently Lizzy, but her daddy called her Boo. I can only imagine Joe's heartbreak, but I know it's massive. One small, bright spot is Make-A-Wish came through for her this week. Matt Shadow, from the band Avenged Sevenfold, traveled with his wife to see her. With some adjustments of her meds, she was able to be awake and enjoy having one of her dreams come true. It was a special time for her and her family. The love and compassion Matt and his wife showed even made Elizabeth's grandma a fan. Make-A-Wish Foundation is amazing and so appreciated.

Losing my mom to Ovarian Cancer was hard, but losing a child... there are no words. I'm weary of cancer. I'm especially weary of hearing about children being taken by this insidious disease. It's time for it to stop... time for a cure... before another child is taken far too soon.

Please whisper a prayer for the family... they will miss her so... even knowing she is now safe and loved, in the arms of our Heavenly Father...

Mother's Day... Remembering each of them...

2011-05-07T19:02:00.000-06:00

My momma and me...

Momma always took in any stray and found them a home!

PJ and his mom... my mom-in-law

My boys and their Grandma Vonna

My Grandma Martha and me...

Grandma Martha and me...

My Grandma Ruth and her sister Susie...

No longer here... but never forgotten...

Wishing each of you a beautiful Mother's Day!

Just a quick "hello" and update...

2011-05-03T08:41:00.001-06:00

Momma duck still patiently sitting and waiting...

My ancestry search keeps hitting walls, but is "O So Fun" to do! I found Passenger Lists showing some of PJ's family coming to America, plus a couple photos of the actual ships they traveled on! I also found newspaper articles from the early 1900's... one about his great grandmother's passing, one about his grandfather and a horse named Flossie, and a few more. So, the search continues...

It's a beautiful, crisp spring morning. Some of my tulips are done, but others have just opened up. The daffodils looked pretty this morning too...

Still "waging the war" against my health demons. I feel like I'm winning some of the battles. My MS seems to have stabilized for now, and I am so thankful for that! I have chosen not to be on any medication, as the side effects seem to outweigh the benefits. I shared in an earlier post about my "shrinking" and am dealing with decisions about medication for that. My advice... take care of your bones now! Overall, I am doing well...

My writing has taken a back seat... so far back... it's in the caboose of a long, long train! I will get back to work soon. Ideas have been swirling around in my head, I just need to get them down on "paper" while they're fresh...

I hope there is peace and sunshine wherever you are today...

Blessings!
Nita Jo

Expecting....

2011-04-27T18:23:00.000-06:00

In 2008, we were expecting 13 ducklings. Our duck couple had returned, and there were 13 eggs. Sadly, something (racoon or snake) got to the eggs. There were no ducklings for us that year, and the pair never returned to nest in our front garden again.

Monday afternoon, while mowing the back lawn, my husband startled a duck. She had a nest hidden behind our three Gooseberry bushes (Duck - Gooseberry...Lol)! Amazingly, she has 13 eggs! I'm hoping that at least some of the eggs survive to become ducklings! I'll get photos of them if I can. Here are two photos my husband took on Monday:


Thirteen Eggs, left briefly uncovered when "Mama" duck was startled by the lawn mower.


"Mama" happily back on her nest!

Well, back to my ancestry search... then on to one of my guilty pleasures... American Idol!
I hope to be back blogging on a regular basis before too long! Until then...

Blessings!
Nita Jo

Wishing You a Happy and Blessed Easter!

2011-04-24T13:49:00.000-06:00

This song has such memories from my childhood.

I was touched by Carrie Underwood's version.

Be sure to pause my Playlist before playing this video!

It's amazing!

I'm still here!

2011-04-08T21:22:00.000-06:00

Hello friends! I have neglected my blog terribly the past couple of months, and I'm even farther behind in reading my favorite blogs. I haven't forgotten any of you, I've just been so busy. Besides the ancestry search that has been consuming a lot of my time, there's been little of everything going on... husband & son had the flu, been sorting and scanning family photos, going through old family cassette and video tapes just to see what's on them, catching up on my reading, and more.

Most recently, my oldest son is moving back in with us for a time. He wants to save some money in anticipation of some things he'd like to do in his life. It will also be a help for us, because he'll be paying us room and board. Another plus... I love having him around! He is loving, funny, and just a joy in our lives. Plus, he's really tall! He can reach the things I can no longer reach, although my husband & younger son also help with that. But, he'll be around when they aren't because of his work schedule.

I'm supposed to stay off of step-stools and ladders because of my osteoporosis... They measured me at my doctor appointment this week, and I've lost another 1/2 inch since last November. I was 5' 8-1/2" when I got married 30 years ago... now I'm 5' 6-1/2"... a full 2 inches shorter! Not great. The good news is that I'd lost 21 pounds! Yippee! Still a long way to go, but it's a good start.

I've been reconnecting with some friends. That's been fun. I'm one of those people who is so happy at home in my little world, that I don't get out much. My friend (she's also my cousin-in-law), Carol, was down doing the college visits with her daughter. She saved an entire morning to spend with me! We went out to breakfast, then came back to my home to chat. There is nothing like time with a dear friend to put life back into perspective. Her visit brought such a feeling of joy to my heart.

My husband and I made it to church last weekend, and got invited to go out to lunch. My first impulse was to just go home, but I pushed myself to go and we had the best time! Old friends bring that comfortable feeling of just being able to be ourselves. We shared about our boys... they have three, we have two... we talked about the wonderful church service... about what's new in our lives... and we laughed. It was wonderful!

Well, that's my update. I'll try to get back here more often. Next time, I'll come to visit some of your blogs!

Blessings to each of you!
Nita Jo

Sunday Scribblings #260 - Nearly

2011-03-27T10:14:00.002-06:00

Maddie was dressed and ready to go. She'd gotten up early, showered, selected her best clothes, eaten a light breakfast, and read the paper. Now, with purse in hand she stood looking at the door. Dizzy, she was so dizzy. "I'll just sit for a bit." she thought. And so, she sat. The minutes ticked into hours. At some point, she hung her jacket back in the closet and placed her handbag over the doorknob. She'd almost made it. She was very nearly there, but not quite. Maybe next time. Yes, next time she would go.

© 27Mar2011 ajj

To read other Sunday Scribblings writers go HERE.
For more of my writing, go to My Sunday Scribblings.
And, thank you so much for stopping by...

Sunday Scribblings #259 - Free

2011-03-27T09:41:00.000-06:00

Free. "You're free." he said, smiling as he slipped the stack of papers into the large manilla envelope. She couldn't process the word. How do you become free of 28 years of life, of memories. Who asked to be free anyway? She certainly hadn't. Rachael took the envelope. She didn't even attempt to return his smile. "Thank you for your help." she stated quietly. She didn't mean it. What is the point of thanking someone for the assist in turning your life upside-down? And, for a pretty high cost at that! She grabbed her coat and left his office. Three flights down, out the double doors, and into the cold, clear day.

Looking around, Rachael noticed that everything looked exactly the same. The world continued on indifferently. As if her problems didn't change anything. Well, they really didn't, except to her. Jeff & Jayna had been nonchalant about everything. "Mom, life goes on. What's important is that you both find happiness." Who were these people? That is certainly not how she raised them. Marriage was forever. Momma & pops certainly never considered such a thing. She walked slowly down the street. Traffic was mad, as usual, horns barking out a retort for their discontented drivers. A young mother passed her, trying to keep three little ones within reach. An old man sat on the bench waiting for the next bus. Everything was the same. Everything was different. She was free.

© 27Mar2011 ajj

For more Sunday Scribblings go HERE. For more of my writing pieces for this venue, go to My Sunday Scribblings. As always, thanks for stopping by...

Sunday Scribblings #258 - Big

2011-03-27T02:55:00.000-06:00

"Momma, wait" she cried, running to keep up. There were funny people all around, scary, leering with their white faces and crazy grins. Momma put her hand behind her, grasping the tiny fingers, and glancing over her shoulder, with a smile for her little one. "This is fun" she laughed, "Just look at all the pretty colors." Eyes wide, the little girl looked around at the big world full of big things. It all looked frightening to her. From the clowns, to the tent, to the wagons holding the tigers and bears, it was all too much to take in. Little did she know that one day, because her Momma had spent this day with her, just the thought of a circus would make her tremble with happiness, clear down to her toes.

© 27March2011 ajj

Sunday Scribblings #257 - Raw

2011-03-27T02:34:00.000-06:00

Emotions bubble to the surface,
Too long subdued.
They are raw, uncensored,
Ugly to see, worse to hear.
How does the heart begin to heal?
Where is a salve to ease the pain,
To cleanse the gaping wound?
Will it remain forever tattooed,
An effigy to your betrayal?

© 27MAR2011 ajj

Sunday Scribblings #256 - Fire

2011-03-27T02:05:00.002-06:00

It was that kind of day. You know, when everything seems rather mundane. You're going along doing your normal daily routines. There's a happy kind of feeling inside, and then you get hit with it! Words come at you faster than you can process them. It's not that "they" are talking fast, it's like that thing that happens during a car wreck, where everything seems to be in slow motion. Then it all speeds up, and you have hit the wall faster than you'd ever have imagined. And you sit there, bleeding from the head, pain oozing out of every pore. What just happened, you ask. What, what, what was that? I just didn't see it coming. I was watching, but it came out of nowhere. I'm sorry, so sorry, I don't know why I'm crying. I just should have known, I should have seen it coming. I should have been more careful. I looked away, just for an instant, and my dreams caught fire... and they're gone. Up in smoke... and there's no going back. I can never get it all back.

© 27Mar2011 ajj

What's New...

2011-03-03T17:37:00.000-07:00

First, I want to point out the photo link... over on the sidebar... for the "My Salvaged Treasures" blog! Betsy is celebrating 200 followers with a fun giveaway. All you have to do to enter, is leave a comment. Go click now, because it ends soon! Then come right back...

So, I've been absent a lot lately... family stuff... you know, life with it's good and bad. Mostly good, I have to say, although we still need lots of prayer for Elizabeth (step-brother's 17 old daughter... is step-niece a word). She was going through another round of Chemo for the Ovarian cancer, and she took a turn for the worse. Everything is stable now, but this is a rough road for anyone, much less such a young lady. So please keep her in your prayers!

The fun... I've joined Ancestry.com and have intensified my search for my family history. It's time-consuming, frustrating, and fascinating! You have to be so careful to document every relation with Census Records, or some other proof. Draft cards, marriage and death certificates, etc. I'm hoping to find out more about many family members, including my Grandma Ruth... my mom's mom... this is her...

I discovered another great-granddaughter on my maternal grandfathers side! We are now exchanging photos and information. She sent me her telephone number and I called. We talked and laughed for about an hour. There was that instant family connection. She knew stories that my grandpa, and my mom, had told me. Plus, she knew a couple I hadn't heard, and I was able to share a couple with her! Her mom is still living, and can provide a lot of history! It is Fun!

Well, now you know why I may be absent for the next month or so. I'll check in, but am not promising anything. I'll probably be sitting right here... just making my eyes go bleary, starring at old documents and photos!

Sunday Scribblings #254 - A Thousand Years

2011-03-01T23:24:00.000-07:00

reality shows, news about wars
images on film or digital,
the latest fashion, the trend,
the thing that's "it" for today
wallpaper, paint, linen, leather or vinyl
who's who, who's hot, who's not
property; buy it, sell it, rent or
find a niche under the bridge

save words in a book or a memory chip
create art in paint, charcoal, ink, pastels
what will it matter in a thousand years
will anyone be here to care
will it all be blown to oblivion
will all the good be in heaven
what about me... where will i be
will any of this really even matter

So.... that's my take on the prompt for Sunday Scribblings #254 "A Thousand Years"
I wrote it a while back. It's a bit dark, but sometimes we all stand in the dark... and wonder.

copyright 13Feb2011 ajj

My Roba Dolce Review

2011-02-24T08:57:00.000-07:00

You may remember that I posted about a free sample of Roba Dolce products back in January. Well, my family finally sampled the products and here is my review in order of preference:

Lemon Sorbetto... this is my personal favorite! I love lemon, and this is the perfect blend of tart with just a touch of sweet. I couldn't stop eating this. The rest of the family just got a "token" taste.
Dark Chocolate Chunk Gelato... this was the overall favorite of everyone! Creamy, dark, decadent, delightful... with chunky chocolate pieces! My guys polished this off! I was lucky to get a tiny sample bite of this luscious gelato!
Mango Sorbetto... First taste, I wasn't sure. I was still in my happy, lemon place. I have to say, I really liked this flavor. The mango was rich, without being too sweet. A perfect dessert treat, especially after a spicy meal.
Pistachio Gelato... This took me back to the 70's when everyone was making "Pistachio Pudding" for pot luck dinners. It was sweet and creamy, with little bits of crunchy nuts in every bite. Delicious!
Coconut Gelato... If you like coconut creme pie, you will love this! It's the sweetest coconut flavor, so creamy, with bits of shredded coconut blended in. Even my sons, who have never cared much for coconut, loved this! It was wonderful served alongside a warm, dark chocolate brownie!

Thank you to Roba Dolce for the opportunity to sample, and review, their excellent products! If you want to find a store selling Roba Dolce products, visit their web site. In my area, Roba Dolce is sold at Costco and Walgreens. Roba Dolce also has a FaceBook Page Here.

Another big "Thank You" goes out to Karen, of This Old House 2 , for letting me know about this wonderful opportunity. She has a lovely blog... please take a few minutes out of your day to visit her!

Happy Birthday Dad...

2011-02-22T15:54:00.000-07:00


I was about a year old when this was taken.

Grandpa & Grandma (who raised me) and my Daddy

I still miss my dad. Today is his birthday. My dad didn't play a big role in my life, but you couldn't help loving him. He was funny, interesting, and well... I was always told I was stubborn, just like him. It's true... I am!

I loved to hear him sing... he sounded a little like Merle Haggard, and he had a great laugh. He's been gone for almost 21 years... seems like only a moment ago. Gone, never forgotten. Sending love heavenward...

Chopped...

2011-02-21T01:42:00.001-07:00

Well, I'd been thinking about donating my hair again and last night I chopped it off! Twelve inches gone! It feels so light and airy! I haven't worn my hair this short in a long time.

We took this first photo a few nights ago for our church's directory. That's my hubby PJ, me, and my youngest son, Lucky 13! Aren't they cute! You can't really see that my hair goes way down my back.

Twelve inches chopped off!

And the first result in a pic my son took. A little blurry, but it gives you an idea...

I did the cutting after 11 pm last night. Lol! A bit jagged, but I did it! Today, I had PJ straighten out the edges in the back for me. It turned out pretty well for a non professional home hair cut. Sorry about the surgery scar... haven't figured how to edit it out. I'm hoping it will fade some day.

It's been a productive couple days for me. Got some projects done, boxed up more goodies for the ARC to pick up, and gave myself a new do! Feels grand!

My Valentine's Day... and Other Stuff

2011-02-17T08:56:00.000-07:00

My sweet husband really made my Valentine's Day lovely. I woke up to find a beautiful card and a gorgeous pink azalea plant waiting for me! He had already given me Lindt Chocolates, and had baked me my favorite Gooseberry Pie!

This pie was delicious!

When he got home from work, he surprised me with three wonderful soaps I had on my wish list; Lavender and Ocean Rain made with Shea butter, and Cloister Garden, a floral fruity fragrance, made with goat's milk... they smell heavenly! Plus, a beautiful Celtic Trinity Bracelet! He is quite a guy, and I'm so glad he still puts up with me!

Other stuff...

Tuesday we had the most beautiful spring weather! It got up to 64 degrees, a record for February! Then yesterday came... Big hail, winds, lightening, then snow... Needless to say, it was black ice this morning. I drove Lucky 13 to school... as always, the High School parking lot is one of the most dangerous places to drive, and the only place I slid! I was glad to get back to my nice, warm home! Here is a look at what was coming down...

This is supposed to last for the next couple of days... Oh, how I'm looking forward to spring!

Reminder: The due date for the Brenda Photo Challenge is coming up! It's February 26th! The category is "Red" and should be lots of fun. It's not too late to sign up. Just go Here! My photos will be posted over at Nita Jo's Photos, my photo blog.

Wishing you a beautiful day... and stay hopeful, Spring is just around the corner!

Sunday Scribblings #253 - Story

2011-02-07T10:14:00.000-07:00

Here is a short piece of fiction for this weeks Sunday Scribblings. The prompt is Story.

It was like any other afternoon. The kids were at school, Tom was at work, and I was sitting at home wondering what to do next. I have a to-do list about a mile long, but just didn't have the motivation to tackle any of the jobs. I looked out the window. What a beautiful spring day! The sun was shining, and there was a slight breeze.

I stood there, undecided for about 30 seconds. Then, grabbing a light sweater and my keys, I went out the door. Walking briskly, I headed for the park about six blocks from my home. It was pretty empty this time of the day. There were a few young mom's with their toddlers or their dogs, and one or two senior citizens walking slowly along. I made my way to my favorite bench, overlooking the water. It was relaxing sitting there in the quiet, watching the ducks and geese.

A soft voice over my shoulder asked, "Do you mind if I sit for a bit?" "No, there's plenty of room here." I replied glancing back. The elderly man smiled as he came around and sat down. We both silently looked out over the water.

After a few moments, he spoke. "My wife and I used to walk down to this park every Sunday afternoon to watch the birds." "That must have been nice." I replied. "It was nice, now that I think about it. When we were coming, it was just part of our routine." I smiled, and he knew he had a friendly listener.

"Funny how you appreciate things so much more when they're gone." he paused, "My wife passed away a year ago in February, just before Valentine's Day. We were together for 52 years." His voice was quiet, unemotional. "I hadn't even bought her a card yet. I have a bad habit of doing those kind of things at the last minute." He reached up, scratching at his slightly whiskered chin. His eyes were lost in thought, so I turned my attention back to the ducks. I wondered what their story was. Were they very much in love, or was her passing a relief to him? Did they have children? What had their lives been like?

I glanced back over and noticed his eyes had misted up. "I'm sure you really miss your wife." I offered, wondering if he still wanted to talk. "Oh, I do. So much. It was always just her and me. We were never able to have children, and most of our family lived far away from here. It was just us." he said, with a slight smile. "But, we were enough for each other. I guess that's why it's so hard now. It gets a little lonely at times." "Oh, I'm sure it does!" I replied. He waited a moment, then added, "The one constant is my walks in this park. It's one of the few places that hasn't changed all that much. It's full of memories." The man and I, John was his name, continued to chat for about an hour. He then stiffly stood, reached out his hand and shook mine. "This was a pleasure. Thank you for listening to an old man's stories" and he headed off.

I sat for a little while longer, happy that I'd ignored the lists just this once. I felt refreshed by the spring air and the lovely memories shared with a stranger, who was now an acquaintance. I hoped our paths would cross again some afternoon.

© 07February11 ajj

Bird Songs...

2011-02-02T14:03:00.000-07:00

Even with the freezing cold temperatures, my heart is light because I am hearing bird songs from outside my window. I went to visit Joanne Heim's blog, and there was a post on birds, songs, and boundaries. It was uplifting and joyful!

As you can see on my sidebar, there is a photo link and prayer request for Joanne. She suffered a major stroke on January 11th. Joanne, and each family member, is in need of our prayers. Here is a link to her December 15th Post:

"Birds and Songs and Boundaries"

Three times a week, one of Joanne's previous posts is pulled out of the archives. This one really blessed me today. This is the scripture she shared... Psalm 16:

You have assigned me my portion and my cup;
You have made my lot secure.
The boundary lines have fallen for me in pleasant places;
Surely I have a delightful inheritance!

I pray for the day that Joanne will be able to share her thoughts with us again. In the meantime, visit her blog to read her archives, and updates, posted by Tobin, family, and friends. Please continue to pray for her healing...

Believe in Miracles.

A New Look...

2011-02-01T10:29:00.000-07:00

I have admired so many of your blogs since starting mine. I finally decided to try an entirely new look! I was visiting a new blogger, Karen of Todolwen, and I noticed how pretty it looked. In the upper left-hand corner was the name of the designer, Itkupilli, and it said "Free" so I had to check that out! You all know how I love a bargain. Free stuff is even better!

If you're thinking of dressing up your blog, visit Itkupilli by clicking on the photo link on my sidebar. You can also get there by clicking on her name in the upper left-hand corner of my blog. She has all kinds of free backgrounds, plus she posts easy to follow instructions on her side bar. I am a slow learner for many of the blogger features, but hers was very easy for me. Just take it one step at a time.

I am also playing with my photo blog, Nita Jo's Photos. I used the "blog widening" instructions provided by Donna, of Cottage Days and Journeys. I haven't finished tweaking it yet. I'm not happy with my Tippy Kittycat photo in the larger size, so I'm looking for a new photo for the header. I have hundreds to rummage through and it's going to take me a while. I am excited to experiment with the new size.

Now, all I need is someone out there to help me create an email newsletter template. I have tried to find something that I can copy and paste into my email. I don't want to send it as an attachment. I have created the newsletter on a "Publisher" type format. The photos and Logos will not paste! I even opened up two different email accounts, just to see if they would accept my document. I am looking for a free, or dirt cheap, "help" site. Do you know of one? I would prefer not to have to create a web site to get this done. Can you help?

Memory Lane Mondays

2011-01-31T05:59:00.000-07:00

Today is the first installment for Memory Lane Mondays. I've been going through my books recently, so this memory is one that came to mind. I hope you enjoy it...

My parents divorced when I was 4 years old, so it was just my momma, my little sis and me. Momma did the best she could, working as a waitress, and making ends meet. She developed an eye for a bargain. She clothed us and furnished our home with second hand deals. She was a fixture at the Salvation Army Store each week when the trucks brought in the "new" donations. The Caldwell Auction became a regular part of her routine. There was also the Youth Ranch, St. Vincents, yard sales, and more. There wasn't a lot of money to go around, but my sis and I never knew it.

I began reading at an early age, and from the moment my mind began to understand the concept of words and stories, I loved books. At the end of my first grade year, I decided to take my Dick, Jane, and Sally book home with me. Somehow, I knew it was wrong so I hid the book in my room. It wasn't long before Momma found it. I could tell she was disappointed in me. She rarely got cross with me, but this day she did. She explained that bringing the book home was stealing, and that I would have to return it at the beginning of the next school year. Momma took the book and placed it in her cedar chest. "Can't I have it until we take it back" I pleaded. "No, it's not yours to read. It stays in the chest until you return it to school." she answered. That's where it stayed, and I learned a valuable lesson. Momma stuck by her principles, but she also saw how much I loved reading. After that, whenever my birthday or Christmas came around, there was always a book with my name in it.

© 31JAN11 ajj

NOTE: To Participate, or if you just want to read other peoples stories, click on the Memory Lane Mondays photo link. It's on my sidebar.

Sunday Scribblings #252 - Safe

2011-01-31T02:35:00.002-07:00

Go to Sunday Scribblings to see what other people wrote on this weeks prompt, Safe.

The house is too quiet. She walks from room to room, turning on lights, checking the door and window locks. Outside is silence. Eerie silence. No cars, no sounds at all. She looks through the peephole, but nothing is there. The fear is thick, like fog. She turns on the radio, thinking the sound will help drive away these feelings. It doesn't, so she shuts it off preferring the silence.

The evening passes so slowly. Then, in the distance, she hears the familiar drone of the truck. It makes it's way up the dirt road until it reaches the barn. Voices laughing, filter to her ears through the darkness. The key turns in the lock. "Hey baby, we're home! How was it on your own tonight?" She runs into her parents waiting arms, "Just fine momma, just fine." And in her heart, she feels safe once again.

© 31JAN11 ajj

Roba Dolce... and Reminders

2011-01-28T11:36:00.000-07:00

You may remember my post, a while back, about Free Samples from Roba Dolce... Go HERE to read about how and where I signed up for this!

Anyway, just look at what I got! I expected one or two small sample containers. What I received was three individual size cups of Lemon Sorbetto, Mango Sorbetto, and Coconut Gelato. In addition, there are five full size containers of Lemon and Mango Sorbetto, plus Coconut, Pistachio, and Chocolate Chunk Gelato!

I Can't Wait To Try Each One!

Can You Believe... All This For Free!

I will be updating this post, after I have sampled each of them, to let you know which are my favorites.
Now, just a reminder on a couple other things coming up.

The Brenda Photo Challenge is this Saturday! It's not too late to participate. The photo category is "Frozen" and with the winter everyone's had, this should be a fun one! My first two entries to this challenge in 2008 are HERE and HERE. After that, I started putting my entries on my photo blog, Nita Jo's Photos.
Go to Sunday Scribblings to get writing prompts and inspiration, or to just read and enjoy what other writers have submitted. There is a new category each week. "Eternity" was the last one. If you want to read my earlier submissions, they are at My Sunday Scribblings.
Memory Lane Mondays is a new writing venue. It is hosted by Donna Liljegren of Brynwood Needleworks. The last Monday of each month, you share a family story or memory. Donna will have a Mr. Linky set up, so you can add your name if you want to participate. You can read each of the other writer's memories, even if you aren't submitting a story of your own.

Well, that's all for now. Hoping you have a wonderful weekend!

Sunday Scribblings - Eternity

2011-01-23T11:40:00.000-07:00

It's time for Sunday Scribblings. Go to My Sunday Scribblings to see earlier pieces. Or click "Home" at the end of the post, and take a look at my full blog.

The prompt is Eternity... For some reason, this was a difficult prompt for me. I decided to take a look at how I see the "foreverness" of my life today. When I was married, in my early 20's, life seemed to be endlessly stretching out in front of me. Funny how time changes things. I chose to try poetry again. I hope you enjoy the attempt. Thanks for stopping by...

Eternity is different at 55
We're still alive
Survived

Life's expanse seemed to stretch forever
We vowed to never
Sever

The dot at the end of the line
A flashing sign
Resigned

Almost see the finish ahead
But we're not dead
Instead

Love expands and grows ever strong
No sounding gong
Ends this song

Copyright 23JAN11 ajj

The Kurt Locker - Glee

2011-01-22T00:45:00.001-07:00

Long, long ago I joined an online group dedicated to The Lord of the Rings. My sister talked me into it, so I jumped into my first "social network" kind of thing. I made friends there that I still keep in contact with today. One of those friends has started a blog of her own. If you are a fan of Glee, or if you're just curious about it, this is a blog you'll enjoy. It's called The Kurt Locker (click on name to be transported there). It's geared toward slightly older Glee fans and, starts with a 32 day retrospective. She watches one episode a day during the hiatus and blogs about it.

I love her take on the show. I recently became a fan of Glee, and have been watching back episodes to catch up. She gives a fresh point of view through her writing. So take a minute and visit...

Cold, Grey Tuesday...

2011-01-18T17:55:00.001-07:00

We finally got a bit of sunshine yesterday, and again for a little while this morning, but it's been a long, grey day. Overcast and gloomy, with a bit of rain. And cold!

Even on this chilly day, my heart is in a sunny place. I've been visiting some very colorful blogs. I also found some lovely, free images over at The Graphics Fairy, The Vintage Moth, and The Feathered Nest. I've been mentally preparing some craft projects. I think I'm in a springtime frame of mind... crafting, yard sales, flowers. And, in the spirit of "thinking spring" today, here is some free art for you to use. These images are all from Dover Publications and are royalty free, so right-click away and take one or all! (Hint: Click on the picture, it enlarges to full size, then save it to your files.)

A Favorite of Mine... Little Peter Rabbit!

Wishing You Peace...

2011-01-17T11:54:00.003-07:00

"We must live together as brothers
or perish together as fools."

Martin Luther King, Jr.

From a speech in St Louis
March 22, 1964

The Brenda Photo Challenge - Frozen

2011-01-17T01:24:00.000-07:00

I borrowed this from the photo challenge, to give you some ideas...

It's time for The Brenda Photo Challenge! The prompt is Frozen. Entries must be up by Saturday, January 29th. Click on the photo, or name, to go sign up. When my entries are done, they'll be found at Nita Jo's Photos.

Sunday Scribblings - Invisible

2011-01-16T11:50:00.000-07:00

Time for another Sunday Scribblings! Below is my submission for this week's prompt, Invisible. Again, it's a short piece of fiction. Hope you enjoy reading it. To see my previous submissions, go to My Sunday Scribblings...

She sat in the bedroom, writing her heart out onto the paper. We live in the same house, but you don't see me. Even when I speak, your eyes never really connect with mine anymore. Am I invisible? When did I disappear from your radar? I remember the early days of love. We couldn't look deep enough, or long enough into each others eyes. We were in perfect sync, even when we were physically apart. How does time change that? Is it something I did, or did I just change so much, over time, that you don't know me anymore? Do you even want to know me?

As the words poured out tears began to fall, smearing the ink until the words were unreadable. She quickly wiped her face. He popped his head into the doorway. "Whatcha doin?" "Oh just making some notes." she replied. "Ok. Well, I'm heading out for a while." "Have fun." and she meant it, even though he never really heard it, because he could no longer hear what he could not see.

copyright 01/16/11 ajj

A Chance For a Gelato Sample...

2011-01-15T15:40:00.000-07:00

Check out the new badge on my sidebar... Roba Dolce Gelato! I found out about this product over at This Old House 2. If you visit Karen there, check out her January 13th post. You can get the chance for a free sample by leaving a comment and putting the button on your blog for a month. Roba Dolce is also looking for new flavor suggestions. If you have flavor ideas, leave them in your comment.

If you click on the badge, it takes you to the site. You can find out what stores stock the gelato, or you can order online! Sounds delicious! Who doesn't love a great Italian gelato or sorbetto?

Sunday Scribblings - A Walk In The Park...

2011-01-14T15:02:00.000-07:00

Here is my January 9th Sunday Scribblings submission. The prompt was A Walk in the Park. To read my previous submissions click on My Sunday Scribblings.

Summer Evening

The sun was getting close to setting. It gave the park those funny shadows, very skinny trees and people with long heads and legs. At the rivers edge swans and geese were still gathered, expectantly waiting for bread crumbs. Children were tearing chunks of white bread and holding them in outstretched hands. Once or twice, an eager goose nipped a finger and a shrill cry rang out. Couples were walking hand in hand near the fountain. It glowed with multicolored, rotating lights. When you walked close, the spray would cover you in a fine mist. Off in the distance, Gold Dust Woman was playing on somebody's radio. The warm evening air seemed full of hopes and dreams.

copyright 01/14/11 ajj

Sunday Scribblings... Progress

2011-01-14T14:13:00.000-07:00

This is my January 2nd Sunday Scribblings submission. The prompt was Progress... it's progress for me to have actually written again. To read my older submissions go to My Sunday Scribblings.

Progress. Stepping forward, no steps back. Or is it just arriving a bit further ahead from where you originally began. If it's the second, I am making progress. In my home, in my health, in my soul. I evolve a bit more each day in my heart and my spirit. The one regret... my writing has been neglected... very little progress there. Nothing for publication, not much for sharing, but it began long ago in pain...

Rivers are so cold
Rushing swiftly, leaving me
They are like people

That is one version of my ninth grade English assignment. It came from my heart, my hurt. My teacher loved it. She liked all my writing. She told me I should go to college and focus on it. I didn't go. I didn't really believe her, even though I wanted to. Life just kept drifting by. Now, it's 38 years later. I still feel that 16 year old girl sometimes, late in the night. Her hopes and her dreams, her pain and her fears. I feel her, but there has been progress. I no longer hold to pain tightly. People still hurt me, and life isn't always pretty, but I've learned how to face it. I grasp it in my hands, lift it to the sky, and release.

copyright January 14, 2011 ajj

Cousins...

2011-01-13T10:53:00.002-07:00

Today I'm thinking of cousins... and aunts, uncles, grandparents... Most of my social life growing up was either at school or one of the three-times-a-week church services we attended (plus a Wednesday morning Bible Study and in the 70's, a Saturday night youth service). The exceptions were the occasional family gatherings.

I loved those family times. When it was at our home, where sis and I lived with Grandma and Grandpa, it brought additional love and laughter into the house. Occasionally, it also brought a bit of bickering (a favorite Grandma word... can you kids stop bickering). I remember one "incident" with cousin Paul (I'm sure it was my turn... lol!), and about a billion with cousin Kent (he loved to tease... right Laur?), and I was always so nice... Okay, I exaggerate. Anyone will tell you that! Then there was Kevin... he was the quieter, fun one who loved making Paul laugh. David was the baby. At times, some of the other cousins were there; Diana, Debra, Lisa, Kristen, Karol, Jack, Sally. Sometimes my brother Tommy or my brother Ronnie or Timmy, Marcus, and little Tammy. Sweet times.

The thing is, we grew together. We shared life experiences that are unique to our family. Like the time my dad showed up drunk, made me cry (he was sharing all his lost dreams and wishes), and got run off the property... not for the first time either. Or the night Grandma went after the bat! My memory is her with the broom, Grandpa with a brown paper bag. She knocked it down in my room, and Grandpa scooped it into the bag and removed it from the house.

Pie... there was always pie. A fruit pie cooked by Grandma; Rhubarb, Gooseberry, or Apple. Cream pies made by Aunt Pat; Chocolate, Butterscotch, Yummmm! The grownups got soda... once in while, the kids got some too! R. C. Cola or Pepsi! There was always ice cream or sherbet, or the best of both... Double Delight! A lovely swirl of vanilla ice cream and orange sherbet! My favorite, next to Butter Brickle.

I remember sitting by the closed door to the living room, listening to the grown-ups talk about life, God, whatever... and feeling so safe. Listening to 45's on my little record player. I remember climbing the Crab Apple tree in the front yard. Softball, Truth or Dare, Statue, Hide and Seek. Running, laughing, sharing. Playing outside long after dark. Poignant, precious memories of life... of cousins.

01-11-11

2011-01-11T10:52:00.003-07:00

I love when numbers line up in certain ways. Like today's date, 01-11-11. It's my cousin-in-law's birthday... she's married to my cousin... I don't know if that's an official category for in-law's, but whatever! Anyway, Happy Birthday to Robin! Like I told her on FB, today she really is #1!

Actually, she's a #1 in my book every day of the year. Robin is one of those people who just makes you smile. She's always got a hug and a laugh for you. If you're in her home, she's the most considerate hostess... making you cups of coffee, making sure you're comfortable. It's like a vacation within a vacation! I haven't had the fun of a visit since my 25th Anniversary trip in 2006. Here is Robin... (Hint: click on photos to enlarge)

Robin, showing her flower display (yes, I made her pose for this)

Always making the best of everything, Robin took an old broken down dresser and transformed it into a showcase for flowers. She said she was channeling Leah, my mom, who had a knack for making "something" out of nothing! Robin, I hope you are having an amazing birthday! Sending love and hugs your way!


Kent, Robin, Grandma, Grandpa, Jenn, Andy at Camp long ago...

Also must send "up" a birthday greeting. Today would have been my Grandpa's birthday. Yes, I still miss him... the twinkle in his eye, the love he had for people, his commitment to God. He loved the fact that he shared a birthday with Robin, his oldest grandson's wife. Happy Birthday Grandpa! Thanks for the love and the laughter...

Here's Another Giveaway for You!

2011-01-10T17:55:00.000-07:00

Go to Junkin' Julie's for a sweet Giveaway. See the link on my sidebar, click it, and just like magic... it will take you there! Besides the button bracelet, she has some other treasures to share with some lucky winner.

I spent a very restless night. Tearful, prayful... I'm not sure why. I was ready to blame it on menopause or hunger (from the fast I'm on), but I had my "menopause" years ago after my hysterectomy and I'm not really that hungry, as I just made some healthy changes to my diet. I can eat all the fruit and veg that I want!

Finally, I decided God was just speaking to my heart. We all have those things that we can't even put into words... heart wounds, that only God sees and knows. I am dealing with some of those. The only thing that gets me through these times is my faith. I honestly don't know how people who have lost faith, or never experienced it, survive some of the things life dishes out. We all have times of hurt, loss, suffering. We all need to feel peace and hope. I am so thankful for my faith, my family, my friends. That includes all you wonderful blog friends I have made. What a blessing you have been to me!

So, bear with me as I travel through some troubling times in my life. I'll try not to complain too much, but this is my "escape" place where I can bare my soul a bit. Please be patient while I walk through this valley. I know the mountaintop is just a short journey away... because God is always faithful!

New Start to the New Year...

2011-01-08T00:03:00.000-07:00

Well, I'm continuing to clean and purge. I started going through all my boxes of Christmas decorations (and there are a lot) before, during, and now after the holidays. I never realized just how much stuff I owned! Shocking! I hauled three huge boxes to the Idaho Youth Ranch, and have the ARC coming next week for more! I've also set aside some things for St. Vincents. I decided to spread around the donations since I have so much to pass on.

I have had an amazing start to this New Year. I decided to participate in my church's annual "Daniel Fast". I am on a modified version, but have given up Pepsi, pastries, most sugars other than fruit, butter (that's a hard one for me), chips, snack crackers... on and on! I'm doing lean proteins, lots of vegetables, fruit, tea, and limited whole grains. Also, I'm spending time each day reading along with the scriptures the Pastor selected for us. It started with the fast, but we intend to continue reading our study Bibles, completing them by the end of the year.

The most important part of this experience was to set aside time to nurture my spirit. I spend more prayer time, as well as the reading. This isn't said as a "pat me on the back" because I'm being so devout. It's just where I am right now. I had been neglecting some areas of my spiritual life, so it was time for me to step up and make some changes.

It's like when I neglect areas of my home. When the maintenance isn't done, things may just fall apart. Life is hard enough when I remember to do my spiritual maintenance. Why leave myself even more vulnerable?

For those of you following my MS... I am still not on any MS therapies, which makes my neurologist unhappy. I am not at peace with the options they have given me. I do believe in praying for healing, which I do. I also have people who are constantly holding me in prayer. I believe in praying for wisdom for my doctors and that's where I am right now. Praying for their wisdom. Praying for me to know what the next step is. Praying that I could still have a miracle of healing. It is all in God's hands, and that is the one thing I trust in completely!

Blessings!
Nita Jo

Sunday Scribblings... December... and Manifesto

2011-01-02T01:34:00.001-07:00

I have neglected my writing over the past few months. I can't remember the last time I did a Sunday Scribblings piece. I am posting today's together with the last one...

Manifesto...

This is a challenge for me. I couldn't quite wrap my mind around it. If I were to create a manifesto for myself, it would be very much like a list of resolutions; yet, I resolved not to make any resolutions this year. A manifesto of my life. What would that look like? It is important to me to touch lives in a positive way. I don't have the resources to make a massive impact on lives, but I do have the power to touch people in smaller, more intimate ways. A smile in place of a complaint. Giving a little more of myself. Spreading bits of peace and joy to others. Somehow, I think the world can be changed with one kind word, or deed, at a time. Not really a manifesto I guess, but a dream, and a good one I think.

December...

This was the first December, in a long while, where I really wanted to throw myself into the holiday preparations and celebrations. The Decembers of my childhood were lovely, festive times. Christmas programs, caroling, parties, family... joy! As an adult, you realize that much of what made December special is impacted by lack of money, loss of loved ones, too little time and/or energy... you lose the magic along the way, or at least I did.

Even though I wasn't able to participate in every event I wanted to, I made time to do some of the things that make December unique and special. I wrote and mailed Christmas cards, bought gifts, spent time with family and friends. I focused on my spiritual needs. I listened to Christmas music, and made treats! I looked through old family photos and laughed as I remembered the good times. I gave what I could to church and charity. December joy is not automatic. It takes effort to set aside the cynicism that creeps into our lives... to look for the things that brought us happiness... to cultivate joy. It was worth every bit of effort I put into it. I'm glad I found my "December" again.

I hope you enjoyed my two Sunday Scribblings offerings. If you want to see some of my older SS writing, go Here. If you'd like to read what other writers shared on these prompts, visit Sunday Scribblings. To see my everyday writing go to my Home Page.

Copyright January 2, 2011 ajj