Another Year Comes To A Close

Internet seems to work in the morning or afternoon so I'm blogging now instead of just before I go upstairs ...

Sunday, December 28 - Sue came to watch Jessie while I went to church. After a great sermon by Pastor Ed about suffering, we had a special healing service. I went forward for anointing and healing for my back and hip. I trust God to heal me in the way that would bring Him the most glory. Being anointed or praying for a healing requires faith and God's will. I remember one time I took my mom forward for an anointing. I was going to go, too, but they thought I was coming to help my mom and bypassed me. Mom wasn't healed, but I was! I don't remember today what I had hoped to be healed from, only that I was. Chris came in the late afternoon and we visited while Jessie occupied herself with her iPad.

Monday, December 29 - Jess and I slept in then left for a late breakfast at the Country Inn for crispy french toast. We stopped at Wiegand's then went to the Comcast center (I needed a multi-stream cable card) where I got a very close parking spot up by the door.  However, when I entered, I was #39 and they hadn't even reached #1 yet. There had to be at least 50 people in this place with only about 10 spots to sit. To me, this was unacceptable. We left. On to Barnes and Noble for an in the door, buy and out the door visit. Walgreen's and the post office were last before we came home. Jess was pretty good with all our stops, but once we got home talked non-stop for about 3 hours.

Tuesday, December 30 - Jon, Jess and I had doctor's appointments in the morning. I told them we were there for the "family plan". Jon came home and Jess and I had hair appointments at noon. When we finished we called Jon and met him at Wendy's for lunch (our dinner).

Wednesday, December 31 - This brings us to today ... New Year's Eve. I started out with high hopes but having to supervise Jess all day gives me a non-productive day. She's been on my case since the day after Christmas to get her tree down so she could make "a mess again!" in her room. I needed Jon's help to get the rubbermaids out of my closet. In the mean time we dealt with a Comcast contractor coming out to run a new cable and not bringing the card we needed. That put me on the phone for over a half hour to Comcast. I'm still on November's record keeping for Jessie's stuff and I got about 15 minutes done today. Jon's working on his model ship and a tiny piece (they are all tiny!) flew across the room into carpet the same color as the piece. That didn't go over well. I was going to make scalloped potatoes and ham for dinner but chucked that idea and we went to Benny's! Unfortunately, after we were seated, the next group came in and had 3 youngsters and a toddler. We had to move. Jessie about lost it and she's been hollering ever since she got home. I need earplugs!

Thank you, Becky, for your very nice comment! That was very special! Blessings to you and your family, too. I've appreciated your comments these past years.

Tonight at midnight, the calendars roll over. Another year behind - another year ahead. Whether we are ready or not. New Year's resolutions will be made and most like broken before the week is out. I don't make any, but if I did, my one resolution would be to spend more quality time with God. That's all that is important, anyway, isn't it? Our relationship with God and His Son, Jesus.

May each one of you find the peace in 2015 that can come only from knowing Jesus Christ personally.

Friday and Saturday

Yesterday I had a specialist appointment for my hip - Mr. Ice Man. Jon said, "What did you expect? He's a surgeon!" True, but this man topped the cake of iciness. The MRI of my hip showed two tears, some arthritis and bursitis. He felt that the pain I've been experiencing comes from my back, not my hip. However, since he is the specialist, he knew right where to push to give me intense pain. And he give me a shot of cortizone in the hip. Jon said it was a good thing I didn't see the needle. You know, Jon enjoys the medical trauma I go through way too much. He's getting a wide scope of more medical knowledge thanks to me.

We went to FCS's, Logan's Steakhouse for lunch, then Barnes and Noble before I told Jon I needed to get home, take a pain killer and ice my hip. Believe it or not, I watched 2 Christmas movies. I've watched more movies in the past week or so than I have in the past 2 years!

Today my hip was better but my back wasn't. I did go to a friend's house who had an essential oils class, then Jane met Rachel, Jessie and me at Ocean Breeze for our annual Christmas lunch then back to the house to exchange presents. When they left I sat on the couch for a bit, played on the iPad then took a nap.

I need to get busy and do some paperwork. I've been concentrating on Christmas for weeks, now I need to concentrate on getting caught up then doing Income Tax stuff. It never ends. I hate paperwork! I'm sure I've said that before a time or two!

Merry Christmas!

Santa came last night and filled our stockings. Jessie opened hers this morning and Jon and I opened ours when he got home from work. Jess and I had a quiet breakfast then she went back to watching videos on her iPad. She will wait to read her new books with Rachel, she'll watch her DVD's and do art projects with Debbie and she'll wear her new hat with Brenda. This afternoon she said to me ... "Christmas done! Halloween coming!"  I'm doomed!

I would like to wish everyone who reads my blog a very Merry Christmas (there's still a few hours left!) and a Happy New Year. I pray that each one of you would have the peace that comes from a personal relationship with Jesus Christ - the reason for the season.

My family room Christmas tree last year was decorated with all of Jessie's ornaments. This year I used all my mom's (antique) ornaments and her Hallmark dollhouse ornaments. She collected them since the early 1990's and I am continuing to add one each year. Next year I'll put my own ornaments on the tree again.

Christmas Eve

Jon worked today, Christmas Day, so we celebrated yesterday, just the 3 of us. Before we went to bed Jon and I put our presents under the tree.

Because we had told Jessie we would open presents in the afternoon, she wasn't ready to come downstairs in eager anticipation to open gifts. We told her we were going to go out to breakfast, but Jon and I knew she would want to open presents first. We got dressed and made our way downstairs and Jessie was excited to see all the presents. She sat right down on the floor ready to dive into all the boxes. We asked her if she wanted to go out to breakfast first or open presents first. Unbelievably,she chose going out to breakfast first! Both Jon and I were stunned. So, that's what we did.

Unfortunately, when I went to bed last night something cracked in my hip and I was in extreme pain. I slept all night in the chair. Walking this morning was not good so I had to use the walker. I'm so glad Jon was home - he helped me alot.

When we finished our breakfast at Benny's and wished our 2 favorite waitresses (Heather and Mattie) a Merry Christmas, we came home and opened presents. Jess did get her "ten presents" - several times over.

After presents we put the duck in the oven, I took a heavy pain pill and sat down and watched a Christmas movie. In fact, I watched another one later in the evening, too. Jon's duck was excellent. I made a corn casserole and we had left overs from yesterday. In all, it was a very nice day despite my pain.

Tuesday

Doreen and Shiloh came to celebrate Christmas on Tuesday morning. Doreen made and brought her "every year Christmas morning breakfast", a delicious french toast casserole. We exchanged presents after breakfast. It's been great having Doreen and her family back in our lives again.

Diane and Randie came over around 1:30 to celebrate Christmas. We had a very nice dinner then we opened presents. Jessie was even pretty good for most of the day. She enjoyed her presents, but then went right back to her iPad.

Christmas Sunday and Monday

Jon had yesterday off and it's been over 3 years since I've sat with a family member during a church service. Sue came early and I met Jon at church. It was sooooo nice sitting with my son. I know that may sound strange to some of you, but church has been a part of my entire life and we always sat together as a family. Church was really nice and then we had communion. It couldn't have been nicer.

When we got home, I spent the rest of the day wrapping presents. I thought I was finished, but I got another present in the mail today that's for Jessie so it will have to be wrapped. Jessie came upstairs later and she handed me scotch tape for the presents she has for Diane and Randie and Jon.

Our friends, Al and Caroline, invited the 3 of us to dinner last night! Jessie did NOT want to go, but I talked to her about it all day long. She went without a meltdown and she was very good. She's been there before, so I knew she would be pretty good. We took her iPad and that kept her occupied before and after dinner, which was excellent!

At one point it got too quiet in the living room (we were talking around the kitchen table) I looked and noticed that Jessie was on her tummy, eyeing the presents that were for their family. She pulled several of them out of the pile and when I asked her what she was doing and she told me that she was taking them home and putting them under our tree. This girl does love her presents! And everyone elses!

Today I had some last minute running around to do. Remember the ketchup we needed? I stopped at Walgreen's thinking I'd buy a bottle there, but walked out when the only bottle on the shelf was over $4.00!!! I ended up at Kroger's where I could have purchased 3 for that price. The parking lot was packed and so was the store, except I got right in line and didn't have to wait. My only wait was at the post office, and just because I had a package that wouldn't fit in our mailbox.

Brenda came by after dinner and exchanged gifts with Jessie. I have some great pictures that I'll have to post later. Doreen and Shiloh are coming for breakfast (and bringing it!) and Diane and Randie are coming at 1:30 for our Christmas dinner and presents. I think I need to go to bed - like now.

My Winter Village

We all slept in this morning, and Rachel didn't come until 11:00. Jon went out to breakfast then finished his Christmas shopping. He spent the afternoon wrapping.

We had a SM Ladies' pot luck lunch at Vita's home this afternoon, then we sat around for several hours just visiting. It was very nice. There were 6 of us that were able to attend.

Rachel and Jessie made orange cookies and walnut chocolate chip cookies, plus read many books.

Naturally, I was too tired to fix dinner. It takes a lot out of a person visiting and laughing! We went to Benny's. I had a $10.00 rewards card, so I didn't feel too bad.

The 2 pictures are of my Winter Village I put up this year. It's 3 levels and I rather like it. I think if you click on the picture you'll be able to make it bigger to see the small decorations.

If We Don't Have It, We Don't Need It !!!

I told Jon to get me up when he left at 6:00 a.m. so that I wouldn't sleep through my alarm because I had 2 MRI's scheduled for 8:00 a.m. Rachel came at 6:45 a.m. and didn't leave today until 3:45 p.m. She had a very full day.

Thank you to all who prayed for me. The open MRI machine was brand new. It was huge and much more "comfortable" than the others I have been in. However, laying flat on my back for an hour was quite uncomfortable for my lower back. I took pain medication before I got there and that helped alot. Your prayers were appreciated. Thank you.

When the MRI's were completed, I went to breakfast, Kroger's for gas ($2.15 per gallon!) and the post office. I stopped at home and got the grocery money I had forgotten earlier. I went to the bank, Kohl's, Michael's and finally Meijer's. I did another 2-week shopping, as I do NOT want to go anywhere near a store next week.  That's why I said, "If we don't have it, we don't need it!"  However, fixing dinner I realized we are in need of ketchup. If you know Jessie, you know this is a major problem. Someone MUST go to the store and get a few bottles, that's for sure.

I was very tired when I got home so after Rachel left and all the groceries were put away, I sat on the couch and used my iPad for a bit then took a nap. Dinner was hot dogs! That's all the energy I had. It may not be midnight before I go to bed tonight.

Wednesday and Tuesday

I couldn't get on the internet last night so tonight is two posts. Yesterday I went to my family doctor and he ordered 2 MRI's, which will be done tomorrow. One for my lower back and one for my right hip. Prayers would be appreciated as laying flat on the hard table and not moving is difficult for me. Thankfully it's supposed to be an open MRI. Last night Rachel came and took are of Jessie while I had Stephen Ministry. They decorated Jessie's Christmas tree! Thus, the decorating is officially finished!

Today Doreen came and cleaned my house (THANKS, FRIEND!), I wrapped some Christmas presents until JoAnne came and she drove us to Bahama Breeze and I treated her to lunch for her Christmas present. Jon had gone to see The Hobbit earlier and met us there. It was delicious - as it always is. The next time I go there, though, I need to try something different. I've never gotten anything but the pecan crusted salmon.

Brenda took Jessie to Gym class today and after they played in the gym for about 15 minutes, they had a Christmas party. They were given Reindeer antler hats to wear and Brenda said Jessie wore it ALL day - even in McDonald's where they ate lunch later. Jess had a very good day.

First thing every morning Jessie comes downstairs and moves the mouse on our Christmas count down calendar. Tomorrow the mouse will be the last row and she gets so excited counting the days until Santa arrives. Jess even received a letter from Santa in the mail yesterday. She was pretty excited about that. It will always be a kids's Christmas in this household.

Monday and Tuesday ... Pain !!!

Yesterday was one of the worse days for pain that I have had in months. I woke with such pain in my right hip, I could barely walk. It was awful. I wasn't able to do much except to sit and do paperwork. I even took strong pain medicine in the afternoon and watched a DVD. It didn't do much, though. I slept in the chair last night and today was better. I'm glad I have a doctor's appointment tomorrow for a follow up from my hip xray, even though I already know the results. Degenerative changes and bone spurs on the hip. Wonderful.

Monday Debbie was here for Jessie and today Rachel was. She's home from college for the holidays and both Debbie and Brenda are taking off for 2 weeks plus to give themselves a break and give the hours to Rachel. Jess seems OK with it so far. Just when she will get used to Rachel being here and a changed schedule, we'll go back to the regular schedule. It takes about 2 weeks for her to be acclimated to a changed schedule.

All decorating in the house is done - EXCEPT for Jessie's tree. At this point I wonder if it's even worth the time to put the ornaments on. She doesn't seem to care and she doesn't spend much time in there. She wanted it up last week and decorated. Guess I was too slow for her.

Saturday and Sunday

Yesterday it was "just you and me!" as Jess would say, since Jon had to work. We went out to breakfast, Walgreen's, Michael's, the post office then stayed home the rest of the day. Other than Jessie's tree, the decorating is finally done. This is the latest I've ever been in decorating but at least I did it. I also managed to do some checkbook paperwork. Jess had a good day, even in the evening when we watched Shiloh for 5 hours. They were both pretty good. I'm glad it went so well.

Today - another "just you and me!" day, until Chris visited in the afternoon. Jon got "mandated" and had to work a couple extra hours and just got home about a half hour ago. I did paperwork all day and Jess occupied herself with her Apples 2 Apples cards and her iPad. Chris and I watched the movie, The Christmas Candle. The book was written by Max Lucado. It was VERY good. I enjoyed it a lot. It stars Susan Boyle, the beautiful singer from England. However, I hate to say it, she can NOT act. Just keep doing what you do well, Susan, and that is SING!

Thursday and Friday

For whatever reason, the internet went down again on my computer when it was time to blog last night. I wasn't in the mood to blog, so it worked out well for me.

I decided this year to go all out and decorate like I used to. I felt it was time. This will be the 3rd Christmas without Bill. I've been decorating since Thanksgiving and I'm almost done. However, it hasn't had the good effect on me I thought it would. It's made me more depressed.

I've had the opportunity to go out to quite a few parties this year and visit friends that I haven't seen in a long time. It's been fun. But when I walk in the door after being out, I feel such a loss. I miss Bill alot. Christmas was his favorite time of the year. I'm really trying hard to stay positive and uplifted, especially for Jessie, but for some reason this year seems so empty.

All I ever wanted to be since I was 5 years old (my earliest recollection), was to be a wife and mother. God blessed me with both and I praise Him for that. I just thought it'd last longer than it did. Being a widow and single mother is tough. I know that I am doing very well and God has provided so much for me, it's just that some days in a year are harder than other days.

OK.  I'm done complaining. By the way, the picture is from Christmas of 2010.

Why Do People Always Say I'm Always Out Somewhere?

Because I am. I was out for 6 hours earlier and 3 1/2 hours tonight. This morning I had an appointment with the surgeon for my shoulder and knee. An xray revealed that my knee hardware is where it should be and nothing is loose. That's a very good thing. The strength I have in my shoulder/arm is in the top 5% of surgeries with severe tears like I had. The doctor was pleased. Me, too. Even though it's a good thing, I still want to strengthen it with more exercises.

From the doctor's appointment I went and had a hip xray, Party City to return confetti, Best Buy to purchase items for Lois, Sam's Club for my traditional Christmas Cookie tin (and a full basket later!), Meijer's for gas, Kohl's for a Christmas tree for Jessie's room, Walgreen's for medication for me and the post office for mail. When I got home Jon helped me put up Jessie's tree, I made their dinner then left to have dinner with Diane, Randie, Denise and Caity.

We went to Ike's in Sterling Heights. We met there last year, too. We even sat at the very same table! I guess it was our 2nd annual Christmas dinner. It was soooo nice visiting with Denise and Caity. I've missed them alot. Of course, it's always nice being with Diane and Randie, too. I had a delicious pecan crusted salmon dinner. Yummy.

I really need to stay home and get paperwork done. I'm behind again. Nothing new with that.

Still Decorating

I had a SM Leader's meeting at 12:30 today and didn't get home until after 2:30 p.m. As soon as I got home I began putting up my Christmas Village. I have not put it up in at least 5 years. After Bill was diagnosed, with cancer, the next 2 Christmases were really hard. I did minimal decorating.

Having worked in a school for 30 years, I received alot of Christmas decorations/ornaments from students, and I probably still have them all. Christmas was Bill's favorite time of the year. His job was outside decorating and mine was inside. He loved how I went all out and made the house look so festive. After Bill passed away I didn't feel like decorating either, yet knew I needed to not only for me but for the kids. All that to say I'm going all out again this year. It's just taking me forever! My tree is done, though.

Jon worked and Jessie had a good day with Brenda at the Gym and swimming. I need to get back there and get in that pool and walk in the lazy river. It's great exercise.

Below is a picture of the Glory Girls taken last night ...

Jon's Tree

Jon's tree has been "up" for over a week and today it finally got decorated. Jessie wanted to help and Jon graciously let her hand him all the ornaments. She stuck with it the entire time. I even think Debbie helped a bit, too. Jon's tree turned out absolutely beautiful!

While they were decorating, I was upstairs wrapping presents for the Glory Girls Christmas party that was tonight. I'll share those pictures tomorrow.

From Jon's tree Jessie was determined she needed Debbie's help to clean up her bedroom so we could put her tree up. It's not decorated, but we are one step closer. She really could do with a larger tree. I have a 30% Kohl's coupon and $10.00 in Kohl's bucks. Hopefully, their trees are on sale! We'll see. She has enough ornaments to fill a huge tree. We did put all her ornaments on my family room tree last year.

Hanging Out On A Sunday

Jon went to church, but I shut off my alarm and because Jessie was quiet (believe it or not), I slept until 10:20 a.m. I was so tired when I went to bed last night. Guess I needed the extra sleep. So, I didn't make church!

We went to breakfast around lunch time at Dimitri's then came home and I sat on the couch and rested again! Right now I'm feeling good and ready to work. Both kids are asleep.

Thank you to who ever paid for our breakfast this morning! That was a special surprise treat, and I ask that God would bless you for doing such a kind deed.

Chris came over and brought pizza for dinner. We just sat in the kitchen and talked several hours. Jess occupied herself on the iPad. Jon cleaned his fish tank. That's it.

Thanks, Jon!

Jon stayed home today and watched Jessie for me while I was gone most of the day. I had to go to the bank, post office, dollar store and a friend's house who was having an Open House with crafts, etc. When I got home I had just enough time to change clothes, pack the van and pick up Marilyn and go to the Stephen Ministry Christmas Celebration. It was very nice - we had a room all to ourselves and everyone seemed to enjoy themselves. I was especially glad since I took the responsibility to arrange the day and prepare for it. Marilyn helped me with gifts, favors and table decorations. When I got home, I changed clothes and the 3 of us went out to dinner. I wasn't hungry, so I brought most of it home for tomorrow, and we always take half of Jessie's meal away before she eats it. She'll have it for lunch tomorrow.

I have to tell you a couple things that happened last night - I was downstairs at the computer and both kids were in bed. I heard a loud bang from my room and thought Jessie had thrown something on the floor. However, immediately, she began yelling, "HEY!"  HEY!  HEY!" The hey's got louder and louder so I figured I had better go see what was up. I get to my bedroom and she keeps saying, "HEY!" but this time points to the closet. A pile of Christmas books and DVD's had fallen over. It was just so funny since she wouldn't say anything to me buy "HEY!"

Then this morning she went running down the hallway yelling "WOW"  "WOW"  "WOW"!  That was a little harder to figure out. She laid down at the top of the stairs and kept saying "WOW!" I finally figured out she wanted Christmas morning to be THIS morning. She was NOT happy when I told her it was still a couple weeks away! It's going to be a L-O-N-G time til Christmas!

Jessie's Prayer For Me

Debbie and Jessie met Kelly for breakfast this morning then went to Meijer's grocery shopping. On the list was Calcium pills for me, but when they went in that aisle, Jessie repeatedly said: "Mom, pain, butt?" When I got home today from having blood work done and going to a couple stores, Jessie wanted to know if I was any better. "A little bit", I said. When I went upstairs, she told Debbie she wanted to pray for "Mom's butt!", which they did. Jessie is just too funny. Although my butt does need prayers. It hurts!

The Decorating Has Begun

Shepherd's Gate had a very nice Ladies Breakfast and an Advent message from Beth Moore this morning. It was nice getting back with those ladies since out Bible Study ended several weeks ago and the new one doesn't start until the middle of January. There had to be at least 250-300 women in attendance. The message was wonderful and thought provoking.

Doreen and Shiloh came this afternoon and Doreen helped me get almost all the Christmas decorations down stairs. We used my stair chair. Then Doreen put more lights on my tree, the gold bead garland and Shiloh and I opened all the boxes of ornaments that I wanted on the tree.

This year's tree is very different. Last year it held all of Jessie's ornaments. This year it has all my mom's (plus the ones that I have bought each year since she passed away) "doll house" Hallmark ornaments on it (so far) and soon I will put all her old glass ornaments on. I really like it. I will post a picture of it when it's completed.

When Jessie got home with Brenda this afternoon she talked and talked and talked. She's still talking. It's no wonder she complains that her throat hurts. Mine would hurt, too, if I talked that much!

A Heffalump For Dinner

Have I ever mentioned how much I enjoy staying home? I really do. However, it always seems like I have to go somewhere and do something almost every day. Today was no different. Jon went with me to a doctor's appointment for my hip. It's been hurting a lot and I wanted a shot, which I got - and not in the arm! Now I have to schedule an appointment with a hip specialist. I was supposed to get blood work for another doctor's appointment next week, but my appointment ran longer than normal, Jon had his blood work done before they even registered me and the place was packed. So, now I'll have to go back on Friday and have blood drawn, as well as a hip xray.

We went to breakfast, Jon dropped me off at home and he went to places he missed the other day. I went to Walgreen's, picked up folded prayer letters, post office and back to Walgreen's. When I got home I prepared for Stephen Ministry and made dinner. Speaking of dinner - Jon and Jessie had BUFFALO burgers for dinner last night and Jessie kept saying "MMMMM"  "MMMMM".  Jon told her it was buffalo but she didn't know what that was so he showed her a picture of one on his phone. She stared at it then said: "Winnie the Pooh! Buffalo!" Jon didn't get it, but I think I did ... she thought it was a heffalump!

Both the kids tend to take after my mom, who would eat almost anything once. A friend of Chris' got a deer the other night and he gave Jon the heart and liver. It was fresh, bloddy and just down right gross.  Jon will be eating both by himself - or, maybe Jessie would eat some, too. Not me!

Friends

I know I've said this before, but I am so blessed to have so many friends. Some friends I don't see for years, others I see once a month or two, some more often. I had lunch today with 4 ladies I've known for 25+ years, yet we haven't visited in MANY years. I met them all when I worked at Havel Elementary School in the 80's. Today was a nice time of catching up. 

At dinner time I went to Macomb Christian Church's Ladies Christmas Dinner with some of the "Glory Girls". It was fun being out with these crazy ladies. They are all crazy. I guess that includes me, too.

Jon had off and went to many stores today, like I did last Saturday, although I don't think he made 13. He came home very grumpy. He's not impressed with all the before-Christmas shoppers who tend to be pushy and nasty. Guess he ran into several today. He also had to go in to work for a meeting, which he did not appreciate. 

Jess had a good day with Brenda. Swimming, lunch and Stony Creek for a walk. It didn't tire her out since she's still very much awake. 

I'm Back For The Moment

This computer business drives me crazy! I couldn't get e-mail or internet on my computer but I can get it on my iPhone and iPad. A friend of ours came, walked in the door, and it worked. He didn't have to do anything. When he left, it quit working again. Now the internet is working but not e-mail. I even purchased a newer Microsoft bundle but it still won't work!

Anyway, Saturday was a "free" day for me as Jon worked and Rachel came to spend the day with Jess. I spent 5 1/2 hours out and stopped at 13 places. When I got home, I could barely walk - BUT, I did it! Woo Hoo!

Sunday it was just Jess and me, as Jon worked again. Chris came over in the late afternoon and we prepared envelopes for Lois' December prayer letter.

Today Debbie returned from her vacation in California with her family. Jess did 5 puzzles and some other odds and ends. Around 1:00 p.m. they went with to several places. I had to get dog food, gas, some sausage for Thursday morning, mail some items for Lois and pick up ours, and of course eat lunch at Wendy's.

So, there you have it. Three days condensed into 3 small paragraphs. Jessie didn't do anything cute or funny that I could tell you about. At least I can't remember anything!

Black Friday

Rachel is home for Thanksgiving, so she worked today and she and Jessie did alot of reading, crafts and book work. Even though today was Breakfast Out Day, Rachel didn't want to take Jessie because of the crowds and Jessie, for some reason, didn't want to go either. Breakfast and lunch were at home.

Jon and I went to Diane and Randie's house and helped them put up their Christmas Village. What took them normally 3 hours was finished in half that time. We all had a good time, too. 

We went to El Charro's for lunch. We had a debate whether or not the one we went to today was the original. I said it wasn't because I remember going to a "hole in the wall" restaurant back in high school. I was partially right. The one we went to today off 14 Mile near Utica Road opened in the 1990's. The one I remember opened in 1971, so it was after graduation. Why my girlfriends and I went all the way down to El Charro's I'll never know. Or how we even knew about it. I guess that mystery won't be cleared up until I talk to my girlfriend, JoAnne, who remembers everything. She'll remember! 

When we got home Jon put up the tree in the family room. Wouldn't you know it? Some of the lights are out. We finally get a beautiful tree, in 3 sections, complete with lights and one group goes out. Right in the middle of the tree. Same thing as the tree in the living room. Guess we'll have to string a set of lights on it. 

I hope every one had a memorable Thanksgiving and a good day today.

Thanksgiving's Post

I finally called Comcast tonight and I now have internet and e-mail on my computer. Well, at least tonight I do. Here's Thanksgiving's post a day late ...

Julie, Kylee and Lynzee came for the day. Jon fixed the Cornish hens and we did a couple winter crafts. Then when the hens were almost done we all converged in the kitchen, fell over one another and all worked together to get the rest of the meal cooked and ready to eat. It was a delicious meal. I haven't eaten that much at one time in over 5 weeks (the time I've been on Weight Watcher's). It definitely did not make me feel good. I'm glad I don't eat like that anymore.

Jessie thoroughly enjoyed her entire meal. I cut the legs off the hen for her but she didn't want me to cut anymore off. She picked that thing clean. She'd get a bone, eat all the meat and throw the bone in a dish. Julie sat across from her and kept laughing. If Jessie took a breath, we didn't see it. She was even too busy eating to give a 1 or 2 thumbs up! She got the clean plate award at the end of the meal!

The picture on the left was taken after the meal, while we took a half hour in the kitchen to clean up before dessert. Jess sat there the entire time. She wasn't about to get up without her pumpkin ice cream pie. She only gets it twice a year - Thanksgiving and Christmas. It's her favorite.

While dessert was settling, we decorated gingerbread cookies. It was supposed to be for a gingerbread train, but it was too complicated for so many of us. (Jess ate hers today - Friday - and kept saying "MMMMMMM"  "MMMMMMM".

In all, it was a very nice Thanksgiving.

Tuesday and Wednesday

It's been a couple of good days, except that I'm having trouble with my computer, e-mail and internet. Sometimes I have it, sometimes I don't. Right now I have it - just hope this will send.

Yesterday Jon and I spent the day out going to several places. Brenda took Jessie swimming, out to lunch and a store.  Today the three of us went to breakfast at the Country Inn then shopped at Wiegand's to see all the Christmas decorations.

Jessie hasn't shut up since we left this morning. It's a wonder she can speak at all with as much talking and yelling she's done all day. She's not stopped. She's watching Barney on Utube and singing along with the kids. Prior to that it was Table for 12. I can't wait for peace and quiet when she's asleep.

A Day With Jessie

This morning before we came downstairs for breakfast:
Me:   Jessie - will you help me make the bed?
Jessie (running down hallway to her room): NO
Me:   Jessie!  You slept in it!
Jessie:  I know, Mom!  (Slamming her bedroom door.)


Debbie and her family are in California for the week - their annual Thanksgiving week vacation. Jess and I drove through McDonald's for a sausage McMuffin breakfast and ate in the van. Walgreen's and the post office were next. We were going to go to lunch, but we were expecting (and did get) high winds this afternoon. I didn't want to be out in that. They were pretty scary winds today, and they continue. Lots of thuds on the roof where I assume branches broke off and fell.


Jessie's major job every other day or so is to empty the dishwasher of the clean dishes. She does a really good job and doesn't want anyone to help her with it. I was in the kitchen with her as she was doing this today. One of the glasses had water on top. What did she do? She took her shirt and wiped the top of the glass with her shirt. I've NEVER seen her do that before. Interesting.

"A Christmas Carol"

This afternoon I took Julie, Kylee and Lynzee to Meadow Brook Theatre to see A Christmas Carol for their Christmas present. None of them had ever been to the Theatre before and they really had a good time. We had super good seats - 3rd row in the center.

A half hour prior to the show the carolers sang and they stood right in front of us. Kylee liked them the best.

I've seen this play at Meadow Brook Theatre at least 6 times but some of it seemed different to me, either that or I'm really beginning to forget. There were several performers that were the same, yet many new ones. Especially the children. I'm sure they have to be replaced quite often since children grow up! Tiny Tim was sooooo cute this year. Maybe 3 years old. The star of the show, besides Scrooge, of course.

We went to Lucky's in Rochester for dinner and came right home so they could go home.  All 3 of them deliver papers and they were up since 4:30 this morning. A very hard way to earn money, in my opinion. I give them alot of credit.

Applesauce Day

Today was our Second Annual (although we missed last year) Applesauce Day. Chris, Rox, Jon and I worked for 2 1/2 hours and turned 3 bushels of Macintosh and Yellow Delicious apples into yummy applesauce. Working together takes the "sting" out of the work and gives us an opportunity to visit and catch up with one another.

Jess was very good occupying herself with her iPad, beads and Apples 2 Apples cards. However, she did manage to drive me nuts:

Jess (at breakfast table):  Mom!
Me:  Yes?
Jess: Lunch?
Me: Let's eat breakfast first.
Jess: OK
Jess: Mom?
Me: Yes, Jessie?
Jess: Dinner?

This conversation continued the entire day. Please don't laugh.

I Am Exhausted

I left the house this morning at 10:30 for my last PT for my knee. One year after surgery. My second "graduation" in a month. I'm definitely going to have to stop in now and then and visit the girls. I won't miss the exercises but I will miss them.

After PT I spent 45 minutes at the Macomb County Sheriff's Sub Station for an Officer so that I could turn in the latest paper regarding my identify theft. Then I had to wait about 15 minutes in line at the post office for a package that wouldn't fit in the box.

Debbie, Jessie and I went to McDonald's for lunch then went to Judy's to have her fix 3 new shirts for Jessie. She's got such short arms, at least 6" or more needs to be cut off of each sleeve. Meijer's for gas was next then I dropped them off at home so Debbie could do her paperwork and I went to Meijer's to begin grocery shopping for 2 weeks. There's no way I'm going to Meijer's next week. Debbie brought Jessie to me and she left at her normal time. We didn't get home until 5:15 pm. and it took us about an hour to bring in all the bags and Jessie emptied each one. My back was killing me so I took some pain medicine and sat down for a bit. Jess missed her 4:00 snack time so she had it at 5:30 p.m.

I was just too tired to fix dinner so I sent Jon a text and asked him if he minded meeting us for dinner out after work. Of course, the answer was yes. Jess and I split a fish and chip dinner. Jon, Jess and I have been on Weight Watchers for the past month. We've all lost. I'm glad that we can go out to eat and have anything we want, we just have to count our points. Jon's lost the most, but that's par for him and men in general.

It's 10:49 p.m. right now and Jessie is yelling at me that she wants "10 more minutes!" before going upstairs. I think not.

Just Another Day

Jon took me out to breakfast then dropped me off to get a pedicure. Brenda came and took Jessie out most of the day. She had gym class and they went to Subway for a salad for lunch. They came home early because the snow squalls were making driving hazardous. Jon worked in his office most of the day and I worked on the computer most of the day. That's about it.

This year I decided NOT to put the Christmas trees up until after Thanksgiving. I wanted to extend the fall decorations in my house another week or two. However, with all the snow we have they look out of place. Jessie is so excited as it is about Christmas and the snow. She wanted me to put the tree up today. I'm holding out.

First Snowfall Of The Year

All I can say is that I'm very glad we do not live in Buffalo, NY.  Our scant 1 1/2 to 2" of snow made roads very slick and traffic backed up for miles. I went to lunch with Chris in Romeo and coming home was very slow. I had Stephen Ministry tonight and with it still snowing and blowing it was slick. However, it was much better than the 5+ feet out east. We still have leaves on the ground, now under snow, that need to be picked up. Pumpkin decorations are still up. I hope they don't freeze in the ground before I can get out there and remove them.

Debbie took Jessie out for an hour or so this morning then stayed home the rest of the day doing this and that. Apparently Jessie was very tired tonight because Jon said she put herself to bed and was sleeping by 8:00 p.m. I sure hope that doesn't mean she'll be up before 6:00 a.m.

Home Alone

Jon worked and Brenda had Jessie out all day. They went to the Gym and went swimming, lunch at Subway and out and about. It was just Memphis and me. I did something I've never done before: I sat down for 90 minutes and watched a DVD. Then, of course, I did laundry, swept and vacuumed and did paperwork. The house sure was quiet. That is, until Jessie lumbered through the door. I can always count on noise from Jessie.

A Visit With Ashley

Ashley, Sean's bride, came just before dinner to pick up a piece of furniture that we had stored for them for a bit. I invited her to stay for dinner and because Sean was working until late, she accepted. We had a very nice visit. When Jon got home around 8:00, we were still talking at the kitchen table. I hope she makes this a regular stop on her way home each week or so.

My PT is coming to a close. Next Monday I'll be evaluated to see how I'm doing. I'm sure I'll "graduate" and be able to continue the strengthening exercises at home. I've built up more stamina in my leg and I'm pleased with that.

You Can't Compare Celery to Orchids

I was pretty excited yesterday to notice that my celery was growing. We tried this in the garden this summer but it practically drowned in all the rain we had.

Then, I received a picture from Randie of her orchids that have bloomed. Oh, my! Gorgeous! Jessie and I had breakfast with Diane and Randie this morning then we went and visited them for a couple hours. The orchids are exceptional.  And I was excited about my celery!

When Jess and I left we visited Jon for about 5 minutes at his work then shopped at Walmart's. We spent quite a bit of time in the Christmas, videos and toy department. Jessie wanted to buy everything she saw. We could easily have spent thousands of dollars if I let her. She did get a couple $5.00 DVD's, a book and some Frozen tickers.

In all, it was a very nice day. Except for the fact that Jessie has been overly loud. Right now she's on the couch in time out because she was watching Super Nanny 911 before I caught on and she's probably mimicking the kids. How she finds these sites on Utube is beyond me. She has not shut up for hours. She's still talking. You'd think her lips would freeze up.

The Royal Treat Tea Room

Some of our Stephen Ministry Ladies went to the Royal Treat Tea Room for lunch today. Diane and Randie took me there for my birthday and I knew our ladies would enjoy it. There were 12 of us, as you can see from the above picture. I even got in the picture - look in the mirror! Everyone had a really nice time. No one (but me) had ever been there before, so it was a nice experience for the ladies. The scones were absolutely delicious, as well as the salad and quiche. And, of course, the tea. The water was almost scalding hot - that's what makes a great cup of tea.

Thanks, Jon, for watching Jessie today. And, for the delicious rainbow trout we had for dinner. Jon is a great cook. The trout almost tasted like salmon. In all, a very nice day.

 

An Unexpected Meeting With "Old" Friends

Tonight I went to Wiegand's for a Ladies Night Out with 3 of my "Glory Girl" friends. Lynn got our tickets for us quite awhile ago. They cut off ticket sales at 500, so you can imagine how many women were there. Luckily the place is big. The $10.00 entrance fee went to The Turning Point. There was free wine, punch, water, cheese and crackers and vegetables and dip. We also got a free scone and an itsy bitsy cupcake. Most every woman had a two-layer push cart and was walking out with it full.

When we were almost done, I turned a corner and saw 3 ladies I used to work with away back when at Havel Elementary School: Ann, Mitzi and Barb. It was really nice to see them again. We took out our calendars and set a lunch date for December.

Jessie had a pretty good day with Debbie. Breakfast out, Meijer grocery shopping and several other stops. Jon went out for awhile then began rearranging and cleaning the basement. He's going to paint his model down there and needs a big, clean area. When I got home from PT, I went and helped him for about a half hour.

Just Holdin' On

When I arrived at Bible Study this morning I noticed an almost bare tree. It was ready for winter - except for a very few leaves just holdin' on at the top. Kinda reminds me of life. Sometimes we're just holdin' on, not wanting to go to the next phase of our lives. Looking ahead looks scary. That's when I remind myself that Jesus is already there. I don't have to hold on. I can boldly let go and step into the next phase of my life, what ever that may be, trusting that Jesus has a plan and I'll be alright.

Bible Study is finished until January 15, except for one stand-alone study in December called, Advent, by Beth Moore. At least now I'll have a half-day more to do stuff around the house.

Jon picked me up after study and we went to Partridge Creek and I purchased myself a new iPad. Being in the Apple store is like being aboard a mother ship with a bunch of robots moving people from one seat to another - to wait. It's definitely a unique store. I do have to admit that the employees know their field. I took my old phone in, which we use as an iPod for Jessie, thinking I needed a new battery. The battery was perfect. I just needed to close alot of applications that had notifications open. Makes one feel rather stupid, I might add.

Another Busy Day

I visited Ortha this morning for about an hour. We had a nice chat and I took her books to read from my personal library, which I might add, is a very nice one. From there I went to help Doreen with some trim work in her dining room. I had PT at 2:15 then went back to finish up at Doreen's. After dinner (which was a gift from Doreen) I packed 2 rubbermaids to be shipped to Lois. So, needless to say, I'm very tired.

Where Do My Days Go?

Do yours pass as swiftly as mine?  Joyce and Carol came to visit this morning for a couple hours, then I had a quick lunch and Marilyn picked me up for a SM Leader's meeting. Chris brought me home and I brought in the garbage cans and worked outside for an hour putting final touches on the yard. Tomorrow is supposed to be in the 30's and I don't like working outside when it's that cold. By that time I needed to sit down and rest a bit.  Jessie got home, Brenda left, dinner had to be made, clothes folded from the dryer, then Jessie wanted to go to bed early so up we went. And now it's time for me to go upstairs and finish my Bible Study for Thursday, which is our last class. This has gone by all too fast.

Precision Timing Was Required For Today

Jessie and I were out the door by 8:50 a.m. and met Debbie at church. I had a meeting until 11:00 and Debbie took Jessie out to breakfast. When my meeting was finished I went to the bank, post office and home for 15 minutes then left again. Lunch was drive thru McDonald's for a grilled chicken snack wrap and yogurt and on to get my hair done at noon. When I was under the dryer, I took a quick nap. From there I stopped at Hallmark in Romeo then went to PT from 2:45 until 4:00 pm.  I finally got home and have stayed home. Gladly.

My Football Girl

Jon, Jessie and I went to the Hamlin Pub after church and met Sean, Ashley and Eric for lunch. The place was packed and our usual spot was taken, which did not sit well with Jessie.  She wanted to go up to those people and tell them to move! Ashley, Sean and Eric were already sitting at a high table with bar stools, and since Jessie wouldn't sit on one of those chairs, we sat next to them at a small table for 2.

The Lions were playing today and, of course, it was broadcast on many of the tv's in the place. There were several times that cheers went up in the entire place, including Jessie's cheers!  She raised both arms up and yelled, "YES!" Then she gave me a high 5.  She would also yell, "YEAH! FOOTBALL!"  

As you know, Jessie doesn't like going places that are loud, and today was loud.  However, I think she was glad that she could yell like everyone else and I didn't tell her to be quiet like I do wherever we go.  She's too funny. My football girl.

A Funeral and Applesauce

Aunt Etta's funeral was this morning at 11:00 but I arrived there around 10:15 a.m.  There were about 30 people in attendance. We went to the golf course north of Capac for the funeral dinner.  It was really good.  Chris, the boys and I have eaten there before and their food is delicious.

I got home about 2:30 and by 3:15 I had a chicken dinner in the crock pot and Jon and I turned a bushel of apples into applesauce. We canned 7 quarts, froze a container, ate some for dinner and there's some in the fridge for later. I've never had so many dishes drying on the counter as I have tonight. I usually clean up as we go along, but there wasn't time.  I have wrinkled hands.  BUT, alot was accomplished.  

Jessie began screaming at me a few minutes ago. I told her my back hurt and she didn't like that. I told her if she didn't stop yelling at me I'd take away the iPad. She got really ticked and went upstairs. Oh, well! I hope she falls asleep early tonight.

From One Thing To Another

Debbie and Jessie left for breakfast with Kelly and I did some paperwork so I could go to the bank.  I also went to the post office, Debby's Dollar, Michael's, Home Depot and Meijer's to get gas.  When I got home Debbie was ready to leave early and Rachel came to take her place.  It just so happened that Rachel was coming home for the weekend and called me yesterday to see if she could work any days. Debbie had to leave early and I had Rachel take her afternoon hours plus watch Jess so I could go to the funeral home for Aunt Etta. (Jon was working.) Otherwise, I wouldn't have been able to go. Her weekend home was a blessing to me.

It's always sad when someone so old passes away. Aunt Etta out lived all her siblings, except for Aunt Betty and her older friends. She was active in her church so there were a few people that came that she knew from there. The woman that always picked up Aunt Etta for church came along with her twin girls, who are 14 years old. Both girls were crying and having a hard time. What a nice tribute to a 99 year old that 14 year old girls cared so much for her.

Aunt Etta

Bill's cousin Carol called me last night while I was at SM to let me know that Aunt Etta, Grandma Sutton's sister, passed away a few hours earlier. She passed away peacefully sitting in her chair in her room.

Aunt Etta was 99 years old. The first picture was taken in 2010 and the second picture was taken in May of this year. Uncle Jack and Aunt Betty (the last sibling) was here in September and we gathered for a birthday party at a restaurant for Aunt Etta. She will be missed.

I went to Bible Study then came home and worked around the house. I had it all to myself. It was quiet and peaceful. That ended at 4:00 when Brenda brought Jessie home from grocery shopping, the Gym and McDonald's.

When Jon got home from work tonight he asked me if Jessie talked about Dad today. Apparently when Jessie was in her bedroom last night Jon could hear her talking:  "Jesus, Heaven, Heart, Daddy, OK."

Before Brenda left she said that Jessie talked about her daddy all day long and was very wound up. She went to bed early tonight, too. Still aggitated.  I hope tomorrow is a better day for her.

People who have Down Syndrome typically have difficulty with time. Events that happened in their lives years earlier may all of a sudden be like it was just a few hours ago to them.

Shopping Day

I slept in bed all night (versus the chair) and I woke in a lot of pain in my back. I took some pain medicine then spent the day out with Doreen and Shiloh.  We shopped for items for Lois and a few things for me. We were gone all day and I am pleased that I was able to walk as much as I did (it didn't hurt my back to walk, either). Since I've begun therapy for my knee, I have gained strength and stamina that I haven't had in years.  We had lunch at Applebee's and I picked up a Little Caeser's pizza for supper because I was too tired to make anything. Then I had Stephen Ministry tonight. My eyes are crossing - it's time to go to bed.

Jessie had a good day with Debbie.  They went to Kohl's to pay my bill, Meijer's to return pop bottles then picked up lunch at Wendy's and ate it at home at "the big table!" Jon spent several hours outside cutting the lawn, picking up leaves and weeding.  He did a great job. I am so thankful that he is a hard worker and has taken on a lot of responsibility around the house.  His back is so much better than it was on the weekend. The steroids have worked well.  

At A Loss For Words

I'm staring at the screen wondering what is noteworthy of today.  Nothing that needs to go down in print for the future.  Thus, good night!

Racing Against The Clock

Last night I set my alarm for 7:45 this morning and I don't remember shutting it off.  I woke at 8:15 and I had to be out of the house by 8:50, along with Jessie.  Talk about racing against the clock!  I had a meeting at 9:00 and Debbie picked up Jessie there, then they went to Panera Bread for a bagel. Debbie needed to leave early and we usually go to McDonald's for a grilled chicken snack wrap on Monday's for lunch. I worked on the computer for a bit then noticed that it was getting late so I'm rushing around trying to get Jessie out the door so we can go to McDonald's and be back on time for Debbie to leave.  I thought it was 1:00 and Debbie had to leave at 2.  Rush, rush, rush.  We made it to McDonald's, I sat down, then looked at my watch - it was an hour earlier than I thought!  I had not set the clocks in the family room at home. Talk about feeling stupid!

I worked outside for about a half hour before PT, but had to cut PT short because my back hurt from working outside.  I can't win.

Tonight the "Glory Girls" met at Caroline's house to celebrate Pat's birthday. Thanks so much, Caroline, for hosting and for the delicious chicken. It was a great evening. Lots of laughter. I'm so blessed to have such good friends. Thank you, Jesus, for friendships. You knew we needed one another for encouragement and fun times. I'm blessed.

Well, now I have to "rush" upstairs and do my homework for Bible Study and get Jessie settled down and try to get her to go to sleep.  She was up again this morning around 7:00.

Something I learned from Bible Study last week: when we refer to time, we're always talking about running out of time, never having enough time or lost time. The Bible speaks of time as a future event. Such as "at just the right time", or "for such a time as this", or the foretelling of Christ's return: "This will happen when the Lord Jesus is revealed from heaven in blazing fire with his powerful angels." (2 Thess. 1:7b)  I thought this was an interesting concept.

Daylight Savings Time Stinks

You can be sure that who ever thought up day light savings never had children or animals. Jessie was up before 7:00 this morning - in the dark.  I tried to get her to go back to bed but it didn't work.  Then Memphis, who gets fed around 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. was all messed up. It's going to take us at least a week to get back to a normal time schedule.

Jess and I met Chris at Leo's Coney Island for lunch.  It was packed and super loud; however, Jessie did pretty good.  Chris came back to the house and we watched "Mom's Night Out" and had a good laugh. Unfortunately, Jessie wanted to watch it, too, and was very loud and noisy. That was quite distracting for Chris.

Jon got home a few minutes ago from work and his back is very bad.  He's hoping to get to the doctor in the morning. Unfortunately, he has his Grandma Jonas' back: degenerative disc disorder.

"Just You And Me"

Jessie seemed pleased that it was "just you and me" today. She vacuumed, which she's never done before. It wasn't a perfect job, but I didn't redo it. She took out the garbage and put it in the proper container outside. She helped me get our mail at the post office, and threw away the garbage at McDonald's, where we ate lunch.  She pushed the basket at Meijer's and scanned all the groceries. She did a wonderful job. Right now she's cleaning up her corner in the family room. Not sure what's gotten into her, but I'll take it!

Identity Theft

What a nice "trick" I woke to this Halloween morning.  American Express called and asked if I had applied for a new credit card.  I had not.  Long story short - I'm the victim of identity theft.  Hip, hip, horrah! Not!  I had to call a credit card bureau, make a police report and notify my bank. Right now the individual that has all my ID has only applied for a credit card.  Time will tell if anything else is tried.  Just what I needed - more paperwork.

Debbie, Jessie, Jon and I went to Benny's for breakfast.  Debbie and Jessie spent the rest of the day doing art projects at home and Jon and I did end-of-the-month paperwork.  Right now Jessie is watching a Halloween DVD.  It's rainy, cold and windy outside.  I don't think there were any kids walking the streets around here tonight. My friend, Shannon, came and gave Jessie a couple candy bars and 2 bags of chips.  That was special - thanks, Shannon!

Bible Study Plus

Andrea picked me up for Bible Study.  We have only 2 more classes and we'll be finished with the book, "Children Of The Day", Beth Moore's study of I and II Thessalonians.  I'm not looking forward to it ending. I enjoy my Thursday mornings.

I had lunch with my dear friend, Kathy R. today at Fillipa's.  It was great visiting and sharing what God is doing in our lives.  I LOVE spiritual conversations. I also had a very good sandwich: grilled cranberry and walnut bread with a grilled chicken breast, apple slices, lettuce and honey mustard dressing.  Yum.  A pickle and home made chips rounded it off.

Brenda and Jessie went to the Gym, McDonald's for lunch, bowling and a park for a half mile walk. Jess went to bed early last night and I hope she goes to sleep early tonight, too.

Jon spent the day outside cleaning behind the shed and sifting a dirt pile.  It looks great. We're both hoping we'll have semi warm weather in November to complete the outside work. Tomorrow's supposed to be in the 40's and rainy.

Jessie's Day

Even though it was quite cool outside, Jessie swang for almost an hour in her hammock and sang her Jesus songs.  Debbie sat in the other swing and froze.  After lunch they painted a pumpkin then went upstairs to put away all the toys and school items Jessie had gotten out a couple days ago.  And, the videos.  Always the videos.  At least a hundred.  They are in some sort of order on the floor, but we don't know what it is.

I went to Kohl's and spent my birthday gift card from Jon, post office, home, lunch then PT for my knee.  These are rough exercises but I hope they help my knee and give me the strength I lack.

Jon's Face Book Post About Yesterday

I check FB every night before bed. Last night I read Jon's post about yesterday's trip to the cemetery. I can't even find the words to describe how I feel. I have such a special son. His picture of the tree is better than the one I took, too.  I'd like to share his post with you:

Today is my Dad's birthday.  Mom and I went to the cemetery to spend some time and clean up around Dad's headstone.  Right in front of the headstone was this little pine tree.  Well, it now has a new home with us.  I'm not sure how God allows our loved ones to "interact" with us from Heaven, but I am surely convinced that God allowed Dad to send us a gift on his birthday.  A gift of encouragement and comfort. A reminder of new life.  The journey doesn't end at the grave.  As surely as Christ will come again, I know that I will see you again Dad.  Until then I have been blessed by this loving gift.  I love you Dad and miss you greatly.  I wish our time could have been longer together, but I thank the Lord that He gave us the time that he did.

*****************************************

Brenda and Jessie drove to the Gym and went in the pool this morning, had Subway for lunch, then went to Stoney Creek to play.  Jon and I went up to Crooked Creek to pick up his 2 cow hearts he had ordered, then we drove up to the Smoke Haus, which is just south of Imlay City.  He bought himself some smoked fish, white fish spread, sandwich spread, Scottish balls and a few other items.  I bought some Orange Marmalade and a small package of "Just Delicious Scones".  I was so surprised to see them there on sale.

A Special Gift From God

Now, I'm sure some of you are going to think I've lost my mind.  That's always possible, I guess.

I believe I received a special gift from God on Bill's birthday.  Jon and I went to the cemetery this afternoon, which just happens to be Bill's birthday. Right in front of the monument stone was a pine tree.  A very healthy, pretty, tiny pine tree.  There were no other pine trees around like this one.  It hit me that it was a gift for me.  (I told you that you might think I lost my mind.)  A gift from God.  Jon pulled it out and we brought it home and planted it in a pot. That made my cemetery visit exciting, rather than sad. I still cried a little but when I look at this tree I'll remember where it had been planted and who gave it to me. I just know it will thrive and grow well.

God does such neat things, doesn't He?  The beauty of this particular fall with all the vibrant colors of leaves has been spectacular. And, when He does something small like this and you KNOW that He did it just for you, that is amazing. Thank you, God, for your constant reminders that you love me and that you are taking care of me.  

What A Beautiful Day

Jon went to the first service - I went to the second.  We met Diane for lunch then we 4 took a drive to see the colors and stop at vegetable and fruit stands.  We also picked up yellow and red delicious apples from our "apple lady".  It was a fun afternoon.  We were sorry that Randie couldn't join us, though, as she was not feeling well.

A Ladies' Morning

This morning I hosted the Stephen Ministry Ladies' Ministry Get Together.  We began at 10:00 a.m. with a pot luck breakfast.  It was a very nice time of getting back together since the spring.  Jon and Jess stayed up stairs.  When the ladies left Jon went and worked outside for several hours cutting the lawn, trimming trees, raking leaves, cutting down plants.  Me?  I took a nap.

Jess has been on the couch for the past couple hours on her iPad.  She's been singing along to Jesus songs, Christmas songs, and now is trying to repeat very quickly ... Peter Piper picked a peck of pickled peppers ... I wish you could hear her.  It's hysterical.

Girl's Day Out - And I Do Mean Out And About

Debbie and Jessie decided they wanted to go with me as I did alot of running around.  Here's a list of our day:

1) Banking.

2)  Dimitri's for breakfast.  Jessie and Debbie have met 2 older gentlemen there and they had been looking for Jessie for weeks.  (We've gone back to Benny's.)  I found out today that both of these men are in their 90's!

3) Crooked Creek Dairy Farm.  Jon wanted me to pick up a couple cow hearts but I had to put my name on a waiting list.  When I was finished shopping I took Jessie to the van.  A man with a large camera was walking around then two men got out of their vehicle and a woman walked over to see the goats.  I didn't see her face when she went into the store.  Debbie came out all excited.  It was Candice Miller !!!

4)  We went to my friend Shannon's garage sale. Jessie was super excited because she bought a Barney video.

5)  We stopped at a vegetable stand and I bought broccoli and cauliflower.  Debbie took Jessie to look at all the pumpkins and Jess posed for a picture by an antique tractor.

6)  Tim Horton's provided a safe restroom visit and pop and some Tim Bits.

7)  We visited Leslie from the doTERRA store in Romeo.  We parked in the back by the park and walked the street.  When we were finished in the store Jessie wanted to walk the entire town!  I guess we'll have to bring her back.

8)  Purchased a huge and very expensive bag of dog food at the Vet's.

9)  We stopped in to see Chris at her work.  Another safe restroom stop.

10)  I drove down Tillson street, which is dedicated to gross Halloween decorations.  Jessie thought part of it was OK.  She did scream alot - especially at the large spiders.  She definitely got wound up.

11)  McDonald's drive through for pop and a grilled chicken snack wrap.

12)  We stopped at another garage sale.  Jessie bought a peg board with pegs. She was so excited to buy it that she kept asking that we do more garage sales!  I guess I created a garage sailing monster.

13)  Debbie's to drop off the items she purchased at the garage sales.

14)  Goike's to buy another large box full of squash for Diane and Randie.

15)  Post Office.

16)  Home so Debbie could go home.  I think we were here for about an hour before Jess and I went:

17)  shopping at Meijer's.  I can't tell you the last time I went grocery shopping so late in the day.  We got there a little after 6:00 and got home at 8:00.  Dinner was frozen meals from the store.

Well, there you have it.  Our day.  It's 10:39 p.m. and I need to go upstairs and get Jess to bed.  I'm having Stephen Minister Ladies over in the morning for breakfast and I still have to set the tables, etc. It was a really nice day.  Some of the time the sun shone and it got warm.  A beautiful fall day.  With all the places we stopped, it seemed like a vacation day!

Jessie's Halloween Party

Brenda takes Jessie to the Rec Center each Thursday for the Adaptive Gym Class.  Today was the last day of this session and they had a Halloween Party for the participants.  They went into a classroom, decorated a foam door hanger, decorated and ate a cookie and received a big bag full of little goodies. How nice that they did this for them.  Jess was excited about it because when she got home she came to me, took my hand and pulled me to the couch where she had laid out all the stuff she got.  She loves wearing her pumpkin shirt every October.

Graduation Day !!!

Well, today was Graduation Day for me from Physical Therapy.  My range of motion is wonderful and I just need to work on strengthening exercises at home.  I'm so glad that I'm done with it. However, I graduated from one program and I get evaluated on Monday for PT for my knee - almost 1 year from surgery. I sure hope that it will help my knee.  I have great difficulty walking up stairs and my knee still turns out to the side.  Hopefully with the exercises, it will strengthen the muscles and keep my knee where it belongs.

Brrrr !!

It sure was cold outside today!  Only in the 40's with a constant breeze.  I even put a long-sleeved shirt on and shoes and socks versus sandals.  Bill's sister, Ruth, and her husband, Bill, stopped by this morning to pick up boxes we had found that belonged to Mom S.  We had about an hour to chat before they were off.  They came from Johannesburg for the day.

Jon and I went to breakfast then Doreen, Chris and I met for our accountability time (healthy eating). We decided to just meet once a month but keep each other encouraged by texts.

Not much else happened today that I'd like to remember in the future.  Wash, paperwork, vacuumed.

Almost Finished With PT

Jessie was able to swing outside this morning which made her a happy girl.  For a little while, at least. I had PT for my shoulder and Wednesday is my last scheduled day.  I just need to work on my strength, which they said will come with time and exercise. Next week I begin PT for my knee. Almost 1 year from surgery date. I hope it goes well.

A Short Blog

Jon worked.  Jess and I stayed inside all day.  I worked on my Bible Study.  Jess watched numerous programs on her iPad.  I played numerous games on my iPad.  Going upstairs soon.

Saturday

Last night when I got home I woke Jessie to tell her I was home.  She got a huge smile on her face and wrapped her arm around my neck and hugged me tight.  I told her I missed her and she said she missed me, too.  That was special.  Then she fell back to sleep. Immediately.

Jon had to work, Jessie got up quietly and I slept in.  I was pretty tired from the busy 3 days away.  I put all my stuff away, straightened up the house, got our mail, went and got gas, had the van washed then went through McDonald's drive thru and brought it home to eat.  Because of all the traveling and stairs I had to do, my "bad" leg (with the new knee) is swollen and uncomfortable.  My foot is so swollen it's shiny.  I sat for a couple hours on the couch with my leg up and took a Lasix. It'll take a couple days to get "normal" again.

That was the only problem with the Grand Hotel.  It was huge and our rooms were not near one another. The Grand Theatre, where the general sessions were, had a flight of stairs up and no elevator. No bathrooms on that floor either. Not to mention all the shopping we did along the main street of town.  My legs do need a rest.  That's what I'm planning on doing tomorrow.

A Trip To Mackinaw Island

My long-awaited mini-vacation/retreat to Mackinaw Island began on Wednesday, October 15 at 10:00 a.m.  We used my van and there were 5 of us in it.  Three others went in Mary's car. We met at a Cracker Barrel for lunch and we made it to Mackinaw City about 5:00 pm. Shannon made the arrangements and we stayed in a 2-bedroom suite at the Hamilton Inn. The kids and I stayed there last year. We went to a couple stores and did some shopping, had a nice dinner, came back and talked, then all of us turned in by 10:30 p.m.  Early for me.

Thursday morning we ate breakfast, packed and took the first boat over to the island.  It was a special treat because the boat took a side trip under the bridge and the girls had never done that before.  Marilyn and I were the only ones who braved the winds and went up top.

We arrived at the island at 10:00 and shopped until 11:30 when we stopped for pizza.  Three of the heartiest of us walked to the Grand but the rest took a carriage ride.  I enjoyed the carriage ride.

Friends from Joyful Journey, Kathy R., Diana and Sally, attended the Tuesday/Wednesday conference, spent an extra night and waited until I got there to greet me.  That was very special.

From the moment we stepped out of the horse-drawn carriage, we were treated like royalty.  I guess that is what puts the Grand Hotel way above other places to stay.  I've been to Mackinaw Island numerous times but have NEVER stayed at the Grand.  I've only spent 2 other nights on the Island and it was in 2008 with Bill celebrating our 25th Wedding Anniversary.

As you can see from the picture of flags and trees, the colors going up north and on the Island were spectacular.  Lots of reds, oranges and yellow leaves.  Set next to dark green trees was gorgeous.

I sure hope the placement of these pictures comes out right when my blog is published on the web and, especially when I get it printed.

Dinner was unbelievable.  I've never had a 5-course meal before.  I loved the dishes.  Later that evening I went downstairs to see if I could buy at least one place setting.  NOT.  One dinner plate was $38.00. My picture will have to do.

After our dinner we were treated to a concert by SELAH.  I thoroughly enjoyed their concert and wished it could have lasted longer.  They are definitely an annointed group.  

Friday morning was early.  We had to have our luggage outside our door by 8:00 a,.m. for it to be taken back to the mainland.

Our breakfast was ordered off a menu like dinner the night before. However, lunch was just served. I expected a light sandwich or something, but we had another course-meal.  There was also the parade of food!  That was cool.  As you can see from this picture, one of the waiters brought his tray in on his head!

The Grand Hotel closes for the winter in a week or so and I know that all the workers are looking forward to going back to their countries.  Many are from Jamaica.  They leave their families for 6 months then go home for 6 months.  I can't imagine how hard that must be for them and their families.

Right after lunch we caught a taxi and made the 2:00 pm boat back.  We stopped at 3 stores in Mackinaw City, drove to West Branch and shopped at the outlet stores then had dinner at the Lumber Jack Restaurant.  I arrived in my driveway at 10:00 p.m.  A very long day.

I am so blessed that I was able to go with my friends this year.  They have been going for 8 years and this is the first time I've been able to go with them.  I sure hope I can make this an annual event. Thank you to everyone who prayed for me earlier this week when I wasn't feeling well. I did not get sick. Thank you, Jesus, for a wonderful retreat, and Thanks to Jon who took care of Jessie so I could go.  I am richly blessed.