Happy New Year

Remember no man is a failure who has friends.

Ahhhh....

This photo represents how I am feeling this morning.

Morning has spoken....Fighting, bickering and tattling have broken the peace and silence of our home. Em and Xavie have been fed, corrected and yes, even fussed at. Gasp! Sibling rivalry is alive and well and this ol' grammy's patience is wearing thin. Lol.
I need to do some scrubbing. But with them enjoying their Christmas gifts, (in between battling) it would be a waste of time. They are spread out all over the place! So, instead I will pour myself another cup of coffee and enjoy the sounds of their laughter and yes, even their wrath.
I will sign off with the words of our Lou to her brother..."Well, at least I went to Church and praised the Lord last night and you just went home to play the Wii."
Here come the judgment...Lol.
~Blessings

We Wish You A Merry Christmas

Special

My Tomer holding a gift from one of his special guys.

As some of you know my Tomer is a School Bus Driver. At the beginning of the School year when it came to choosing routes...he decided to choose a route for children with Special Needs. I know that God's prompting made this so.
To go to work and share the joy of these Special Ones has blessed my husband.
He loves, that they tease him as he locks their wheel chairs into place and straps them in...telling him that he needs a comb over because he has a bald spot atop his head. Lol. Or when the older boy sings Rap, though you hardly understand a word he is waving his arms up and down, making up the song as he goes. It is joy, pure joy and they brighten his day and he theirs.
Then when parents greet Tomer at the Bus and say that he was missed while gone Hunting and that their boys only want him...well, that makes my man choke back tears while trying to repeat this to me. God makes no mistakes, never, and I know that Tomer is right where God has placed him. Loving and caring for children, and always being touched by each and everyone of them!
God is faithful! We are blessed!
~Blessings

Just Living Life

Today has been the perfect day. Why, you ask? Because I got to spend the whole day at home! I had no appointments to keep, no shopping or Church activities to rush off to...just a day for me. Which I find, we all are in need of to keep us centered and the home fires burning.
I do not enjoy, feeling like my house needs dusting or that there are piles of laundry calling my name. So, as I sit here watching the Christmas lights, I am at peace. My house is shining just like those lights and the laundry is just about finished...sigh.
Before we know it, Christmas will be here and a new year will dawn. I will turn 60 in 2012. Where has the time gone? I may be getting older, but I will live life with a thankful heart and continue serving my Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ. Oh, I am blessed! Jesus is the reason for the season!
I wish you a time of much peace and joy...Merry Christmas!
~Blessings

Wisdom & Joy

I want to live here...I love this house!

Greetings...I pray all is well in your neck of the woods. Here in the Andrews house, we or should I say I, have been decorating. What I used to do all in one day ,now takes me days to complete. Guess I am slowing down in my old age. Or is it, that I may be a little wiser? Hmmm...I will have to ponder that a while.
Okay I have the answer! With age comes a wee bit of wisdom. I, do not have to work myself into tizzy...which I am really good at! Nope, I just have to complete the task at hand, then move on. And if I do not finish? Well, tomorrow is another day!
I'll let you in on a secret, it took me nigh on a week to get this house glowing, but that's okay with me.
I am finally learning to slow down...let go...and let God. Yep, Jesus is the reason for the Season and I am going to enjoy every moment of it.

Joy to the World the Lord is Come!
~Blessings

Counting My Blessings

Tonight I am thankful for Gods many blessings in my life...He is so good!
Today, I have shopped for groceries, ran errands with my Tomer and even bought a few Christmas gifts while out and about.
Came home and cleaned til everything's shining and now my Pumpkin Pies are cooling and the Lime Pie is in the fridge. Yippee! I am tired, but it's a good tired. Contented, I must say...for God has blessed me with excellent health and the strength to do whatever I set my hands to. And believe me, that is surely a blessing from the Lord.
So, tomorrow I will rise early to prepare my Turkey and dressing. And as always, we (Tomer&I) will have Pumpkin Pie and Coffee for Breakfast and enjoy the quiet of the morning. Then it will be off to decorate our tables and get ready for our precious girls and their families to arrive.
So, tonight my heart is full. I am loved...God is good...Oh, I am blessed.
~Thanksgiving Blessings

THE GIVING TREE

Once there was a giving tree who loved a little boy.
And everyday the boy would come to play
Swinging from the branches, sleeping in the shade
Laughing all the summer’s hours away.
And so they love,
Oh, the tree was happy.
Oh, the tree was glad.

But soon the boy grew older and one day he came and said,
"Can you give me some money, tree, to buy something I’ve found?"
"I have no money," said the tree, "Just apples, twigs and leaves."
"But you can take my apples, boy, and sell them in the town."
And so he did and
Oh, the tree was happy.
Oh, the tree was glad.

But soon again the boy came back and he said to the tree,
"I’m now a man and I must have a house that’s all my home."
"I can’t give you a house" he said, "The forest is my house."
"But you may cut my branches off and build yourself a home"
And so he did.
Oh, the tree was happy.
Oh, the tree was glad.

And time went by and the boy came back with sadness in his eyes.
"My life has turned so cold," he says, "and I need sunny days."
"I’ve nothing but my trunk," he says, "But you can cut it down
And build yourself a boat and sail away."
And so he did and
Oh, the tree was happy.
Oh, the tree was glad.

And after years the boy came back, both of them were old.
"I really cannot help you if you ask for another gift."
"I’m nothing but an old stump now. I’m sorry but I’ve nothing more to give"
"I do not need very much now, just a quiet place to rest,"
The boy, he whispered, with a weary smile.
"Well", said the tree, "An old stump is still good for that."
"Come, boy", he said, "Sit down, sit down and rest a while."
And so he did and
Oh, the trees was happy.
Oh, the tree was glad.
Written by Shel Silverstein

This morning my sweet Miss Em wanted to read me this book before she went off to school. To say that it touched me is an understatement...sigh. To me this tree represents life. It gives freely...its leaves fall like our tears. And when you think it has given its all...it provides rest for a weary soul.
Thank you God for the giving trees...

~Blessings

Happy Veterans Day

Sgt. Thomas J. Andrews...Ubon, Thailand 1971.
(my Tomer)

"Heroes don't wear capes they wear Dog Tags!"
Today, I am thankful for all of our Veterans and the brave men and women who are serving still.
~God Bless America

Saturday...

Here it is Saturday...Tomer left early this morning for a Church Leadership Conference. So Xavier and I enjoyed watching Toy Story 3, while his Mama snoozed on the loveseat. (she works midnights) We snuggled, drank coffee (yes, grammy gives him a small cup of his own) he drew pages filled with stars then cut them out with care. And we just lolled the morning away. Such precious moments that I cherish. For one day he will be grown like our Maddy and I will miss this time with him...sigh.
After Manda finished her nap, she and Xavie headed for home and I got busy around here. The house is vacuumed, dusted and the bathroom wiped down. Now, it's time for the dreaded grocery shopping! It's really sad, that I now have to talk mself into this chore that I once looked forward to! But thank the Lord, good ol' Dollar General has finally come to our area and I happily find myself there at least once a week! I have shopped its aisles, since a young person in my beloved Tennessee and love it for its convenience and great prices. So, I will making my list and checking it twice...they often have $5 off coupons if you spend $25 or more (I actually have 2 if anyone needs one) and seeing that I need cleaning supplies etc., etc....I will easily meet their quota. If you have never shopped at Dollar General...stop in. I highly recommend it...they have lots of seasonal decor and candles...their candles are great and can be found burning here every night. Well, enough of my rambling. I pray that you have a blessed, peaceful weekend...God is faithful!
~Blessings

Ditzy But Glorious

Have you ever felt a bit ditzy? I have! Why? Because there are times when my Tomer looks at me like I have lost my mind. In fact...he has even said "I can't believe you" and that's not because I have spoken an untruth. It's because, he just doesn't get what I am saying! Sheesh.
Now, I do not claim to be a Rhodes Scholar but for crying out loud...don't I complete him??? Lol. I know, I know, life is certainly not like those romantic movies...thank God. And I am understanding in my old age, that men and women are indeed different and God made it so for a reason. I accept that! Yes, indeed I do.
Tomer works to provide for me and in return, I make this house a home that he longs to come home to.
But, the things that we have in common, God also made so...like loving our families and serving God with our whole hearts. So, though he might not always understand my reasoning...that is okay. Why? Because God doesn't make mistakes and we were made for each other! How glorious is that?
~Blessings

Alone Again

I am enjoying the weekend alone since Tom is once again in the woods of Bronson...bow hunting. He though is not alone, my son-in-law David and 3 of the Grandbabies are with him. And this is our sweet Lou's first time hunting on her own and she is excited to say the least! Don't worry, her Papa is in the tree stand with her...but she is hunting! Ahhh, a girl after his own heart. Lol. (I am not an outdoorsy kind of gal)
I have been one busy ol' grammy...While I was away, my Tomer put in a new electrical outlet and did a bit of patch work on the drywall in the kitchen. So, that called for new paint and I came home to a lovely new shade of yellow. But a drywall dusty kitchen and I have happily cleaned til my heart's content.
So, tonight I am enjoying the yummy smell of Fall candles and my twinkley lights in the kitchen. Oh and I can't forget the cutest pumpkins glowing on the snack bar that my Kellerbell made just for me!
I have studied and have everything ready for our Sunday School Class in the morning. And after being away for two weekends in a row, it will be good to see their happy little faces as I greet them once again! God is good...ALL THE TIME!
~Blessings

A Place...Home

After four fun filled days away with a bunch of wonderful women. Days filled with much laughter, joy and the precious annointing of the Holy Spirit in our lives. I am once again packing. I will leave tomorrow, for a trip home to the place where I was born...a place where my heart sings...a place where my Mama and brother Bobby, anxiously await my arrival. The place where my precious Daddy rests in Cedar Hill Cemetery.
A place where I was taught to love God with all my heart, soul and mind.
The place where I will once again travel those red dirt roads, that connect my past and make me look to the future and as always, see the glory of it all!
~Blessings
If I have no Love I am nothing. I Corinthians 13:2.

Here in The Real World

I am so tired of what appears on my homepage from Comcast...I would love to open up the internet and find something of substance!
Lets see...today's big news is "Teresa Giudice fires back!" My first thought "who the in the world is she and why do I care?" Oh after reading further, she happens to be one of the Real Houswives of Jersey Shores...big woo! I myself do not find these shows entertaining. Most Reality shows, to me....are junk. But that's just me and what do I know?
Next came...Kate Winslett's sexy photo shoot. And Johnny Depp comparing photo shoots to rape. I'd have to agree with Johnny, if they are to be sexy and clothesless.
Now, on to...the Leonardo Dicaprio and Lively split...I just don't care. Life goes on and most of these, so called stars change partners like they change clothing.
Lastly, Infomercial King found dead. Hmmm...if he was King why have I not heard of him??? I am sorry that he passed in such a sad way though...suicide is so devastating...sigh.
I have said all of this, to tell you, that in the big scheme of things...this stuff doesn't matter. What matters, is the relationship we have with others. Are we pouring something good into a life? Are we loving our families? Are we serving God with our whole heart?
I want to see and hear uplifting stories and life changing events. God is good and wants only the best for us...He loves us. This is real...
I don't care about anything else.
Blessings~

Visions Of Baseball And Home

Another night of Baseball...sigh. Don't get me wrong, I am happy that the Tigers are doing so well and are heading to the World Series games this year. Rah!
But...this ol' grammy can only watch so much and I'm done!!!
Tomer is currently, in the living room, happily flipping from the Tiger game to Hunting shows...Ugh. I am in the play room trying to drown out the sounds of SPORTS on T.V.! Don't want to watch nor hear any of it at the moment. So, here I sit on the Computer.
Okay, I've had enough of my whining. Lol.
Up until now, I have had a really good day... Got my house all Falled up and am enjoying the little pops of color, along with a new scented Candle...Maple Sugar. Mmmm...so good. I, still want to get out and pick up, some Corn Stalks and Mums for the Yard. And change my Flag on the front Porch, then my decorating will be complete. That is...Til Christmas. Ooh, it's my most favorite time to decorate. Now, I have visions of sugar plums dancing in my head. So, I will bid you good night...I'm going to go dig out my Christmas Magazines, from last year and dream a while. God is good!
P.S.He is now watching "Orange County Choppers!"
~Blessings

Happy Fall Y'all

Wow! Here it is a rainy, first day of Fall and I am surely ready for the changes that it brings. Like, way less watering and caring for plants and flowers. One morning soon, we will awaken to some sad looking annuals because a frost has taken it's toll on their beauty. But, that's the way it goes here in Michigan and I love it's ever changing seasons.
The colors of Fall, are vibrant and lively...even though, this means, that soon the trees will be bare. That is, until the beauty of Snow covers their branches and makes them sparkle and shimmer in the Sunlight. And oh, I love that too!
So, tomorrow I will be found hauling up my storage bins. Happily, admiring each and every Leaf covered Garland, Scare Crow, Pumpkin and Candy Dishes filled once again... with my favorite Candy Corn, mmmm.
Yes, it is a time for change. My Tomer and the Granbabies, are looking forward to their road trips. Where country roads will, lead them to the woods of Bronson. Where they enjoy sweet, quality time, spent in the Tree Condo and/or Tree Stands...Bow Hunting. And I, of course will enjoy, alone time at home doing the things that I love...cleaning, reading and watching a chick flick or 2 or 3. Lol.
Well, this ol' grammy, has a sick Xavier home from School, who thinks he needs lunch. The Kindergarten cooties, have already had him at the Dr. and on Antibiotics and Cough Meds! Have a blessed day and enjoy this lovely new Season...a Season of slowing down a bit and thanking God for His harvest.
~Love to all.

Friends...God's Supplement

"For His anger lasts only a moment, but His favor lasts a lifetime; weeping may remain for a night, but rejoicing comes in the morning." Psalm 30:5



A friend shared this article with me and I want to share it with you.

Why do I have a variety of friends who are all different in character?
Some of them can be considered marginal even?
How do I get on with them all?
I think that each one helps to bring out a "different" part of me.. .
With one of them I am a polite, good girl.
I joke with another friend.
I sit down and talk about serious matters with one of them.
With another I giggle at every silly thing.
I have my tea with one
And dance with another.
I listen to one friend's problems and give her advice
Then I listen to another advising me.

They are all like pieces of a jigsaw,
When completed they form a treasure box.
A treasure of friends!
They are my friends who understand me better than myself,
who support me through good days and bad days.
They are like colorful anti-depressants that I take on different days.

Real Age doctors tell us that friends are good for our health.
Dr. Oz calls them Vitamins F (from Friends) and counts the benefits of friends to our well being.

Research shows that people in strong social circles have less risk of depression
and terminal strokes. If you take Vitamin F constantly you can be up to 30 years younger than your real age. The warmth of friendship stops stress and even in your tense moments it decreases the chance of a cardiac arrest or stroke by 50%.

I am so happy that I have a stock of Vitamins F!

In summary we should value our friends and keep in touch with them.
We should try to see the funny side of things and laugh together, not forgetting
to open our mouths big to swallow the floating vitamins F !!!!

Thank you for being my vitamins!

Grits Are Jim Dandy

This ol' Southern gal has discovered a new hot, stick to your ribs breakfast...Grits!
Yes, some of you Southerner's, will be shocked to learn that I had never tasted grits until last month, when on vacation my daughter Mandy, cooked us up a batch...added a pat of butter and a drizzle of organic Maple Syrup and I was in heaven. Mmmm.
It took me a while to find myself a box of Grits but then I had a brainstorm...try Sav-A-Lot. (a Southern based grocery store) And oh, my goodness there they were sitting on the shelf...calling my name.
I must say they are a good, hot, stick to your ribs breakfast! For I don't find myself hungry, for hours after eating their creamy deliciousness.
So, if you have never tried them...pick yourself up a box. You just might be pleasantly surprised. Besides being tasty they are very budget friendly.
And as Martha says..."that's a very good thing."
~Blessings

Finding Joy

For the past two days, I have enjoyed being the happy little homemaker. I have been blessed, to be a stay at home Mama and Grammy who loves keeping house and caring for her family.
These days, I find myself alone. Yes, the grandbabies are now in school all day...except for Elek. (who is blessed to have a stay at home Mama)
So, I have gone from room to room dusting everything in sight. Laundry, is happily swirling downstairs and even some windows have been cleaned. My list could go on and on...and oh, what JOY I find in this. Yes, this ol' grammy is entering another phase of life, though bittersweet...I will embrace this time.
I will attend more Beth Moore Simulcasts, search the Word and serve God with all that is in me. For in Him, I find Joy unspeakable...life is good.
~Blessings

God Bless America

I have sat here at this computer many times, wanting to write something. Seems my well had run dry. I could have went on about school starting, cleaning house, shopping or other everyday going's on around here...but somehow my Spirit said no.
So, I listened to that still small voice...God's whisperings and just logged off.
My heart is heavy. There is so much going on...Hurricanes, Floods, Earthquakes, Drought and now fires burning in Texas. People are losing their homes and their livelihoods. But, the saddest thing is the violence that surrounds us and the senseless, loss of life that it brings.
So, I pray. I pray for you, I pray for this Nation, I pray for our priorities...have we lost our first love? The love for God.
And as we remember 9/11 this weekend. May we, remember You, Lord. Please, let this Nation fall on her knees and thank you for your blessings. Oh, my heart cries...let Freedom Ring.

~Blessings

Fall On My Knees

The Browders...my new favorite song.

Happy Labor Day

Have a wonderful day!

Summer Days and Love

Here at the Andrews house, we have surely been enjoying our Summer! Yes, we had record breaking temps in July...it was Hot! But, there we sat (roasting) at the Softball games of our Grandgirls, cheering them on. Just like the USPS...Neither rain, sweltering heat, sleet or snow, could stop us from being there for our grandbabies.
There have been trips to the beach, bike rides with Papa or just hanging out on the back porch, while the grandbabies romp around the back yard. Elek, especially loves the sandbox...he is such a sweet boy. And so smart!!!
Now, here it is the middle of August, already. The Summer, has passed quickly and our girls, are now preparing to send their babies back to School. Shopping for clothes, shoes, school supplies and oh, I can't forget the dreaded School Physical! Life is good...things are happy and normal around here.
God has blessed us, we have more than we deserve. A roof over our heads, air conditioning that keeps us cool on these hot muggy days and lots of food and water to sustain us. While sadly, some have none of these. I, am thankful for the love of God in my life. For I truly believe, that love conquers all. It heals the broken and sets free those in bondage. It breaks, the shackles of a mind, tormented with shame and regret.
God loves us so much, that He gave His only begotten Son...Jesus. There is no greater love than this...
~Blessings

City Slicker

Blue Sky Ice Cream and Burgers...Romulus, Michigan

I am a Country girl. I am accustomed to Chickens roaming freely, pecking at the ground and sometimes YOU, if you get too close or they just happen to be in a fowl mood. Lol.
This leads me to the subject of this Post.
Last night after Supper along with our Girls and the Grandbabies. We drove out to the Blue Sky a little roadside Ice Cream and Burger joint. They also have wonderful Onion Rings if you happen to have a hankerin' for them.


You order at the window and believe me, there are plenty of picnic tables, lawn swings etc. so that you can hang out and enjoy your frozen confection or meal.
Well, we got our ice creams and mosied out back to the play area. There the adults can relax as the kids run off some of their boundless energy.
Lo and behold...roaming around next door (the owners of Blue Sky live there) are Chickens and a big ol' Rooster.
Oh, Ian, Em and Xavier were thrilled and off they went to check them out. Now, this ol' grammy gave them fair warning "Don't get too close or they'll come after you!"
Ian, who is 11 years old and knows everything :) is after the Rooster...not smart.
Another warning "Leave the Rooster alone."
The next thing you know that Rooster is off the ground and heading for Ian's shirtless torso! Ahhhh...that boy got out of there in a hurry. (Wish I would've gotten it on video) Maybe, next time that City Slicker Grandson will believe his ol' grammy...I am a country girl after all.
And if you're looking for a little bit of Country...head on down to the Blue Sky! Where you can have yourself an Ice Cream and get flogged by a Chicken at the same time!

Blessings~

Blue Skies Shining On Me

Today was a picture perfect day. The morning sky was so blue and the gentle breeze made for a lovely morning on the back porch.
Now, by no means was it quiet and peaceful. Law, Xavier and Em were flailing about and wailing like a couple of banshees. And believe me their bickering made it hard to get much Bible reading done...sigh. Things finally calmed down, when their Papa and Mama, took them, Maddy and Ian to the Metro-Park for an afternoon of swimming. Celebrate good times...come on. It was wonderful to enjoy some quiet.
Our sweet Elek fell fast asleep. So, that meant that Kell and I got to spend time talking and chillaxin'. I watched as the hummingbird flitted around for it's afternoon fix of our Honeysuckle Vine. And the Bees, Butterflies and Rabbits are daily visitors here. So, even though I am stuck living in the city...this ol' country girl gets to enjoy reminders of both home and glorious memories of childhood.
As always God is faithful. This past week He brought me through a scary trip to the ER, where thankfully it was nothing serious. Just a bad case of Vertigo. Which kept me homebound because I couldn't drive, since I felt like I had a constant case of motion sickness.
Good night all. The Banana Bread that I whipped up is fresh out of the oven and calling my name. God is good!
~Blessings

For Pat

Sissy...this song was on my heart this morning while praying for you and after listening to it, I felt led to put it here...just for you. It is my favorite song and it always makes me cry!
Praying without ceasing...
Love,
trish

Daddy's Girl

Daddy and I...1953

Company's Comin'

I am a planner. I am a maker of lists. I need time to prepare. I want to know things in plenty of time, not last minute! Why? Because my OCD kicks in and functioning normally is over!
So, upon hearing that Tomer's cousin would be here tomorrow...I went into panic mode.
Good grief...How can I clean everything in sight, when the grandbabies are here!?
I have the guest bed stripped and laundry whirling downstairs...just like my mind.
I need to scrub floors, the bathroom, dust & vacuum, hose off the back porch and grocery shop. Ahhh...what am I going to cook? Sheesh. Now, I am talking to myself! That's a sure sign that this ol' grammy is in a tizzy!
Okay, Trish you can do this. Just give things a lick and a promise, it's not that bad. And try to remember the words of your daughter Mandy (who is just like her Daddy) "Just calm down!"
Meanwhile, company's comin' and my mind is gone!
Blessings ya'll.

It's All Good

It has been hotter than normal here in good ol' Michigan. But that's not going to stop this ol' grammy, from heading to my favorite Summer time spot! Yes, I said Summer because Spring...though slow to get here, has left us in a hurry.


I absolutely, love heading out back in the mornings with coffee and Bible in hand. After spending time in the Word this country girl enjoys the sights, sounds and oh, the smells...our Russian Olive Tree smells heavenly right now. It is so peaceful to just sit a spell and soak it all in. God is good.


And now, to add even more pleasure to my Porch time. We have a young Robin fresh from it's nest...who, isn't fearful of us and came close enough for Tomer to offer it a worm. Sheesh, it even landed on the door step while I was cleaning the storm door window...Whew, it startled me! (I think, I even let out a wee bit of a holler.)
So, after record breaking snowfalls this Winter, we are now getting adjusted to some unusally high temps...Ain't life grand? Yes siree, it surely is!

Remembering...

It is the VETERAN,
not the preacher,
who has given us freedom of religion.

It is the VETERAN,
not the reporter,
who has given us freedom of the press.

It is the VETERAN,
not the poet,
who has given us freedom of speech.

It is the VETERAN,
not the campus organizer,
who has given us freedom to assemble.

It is the VETERAN,
not the lawyer,
who has given us the right to a fair trial.

It is the VETERAN,
not the politician,
Who has given us the right to vote.

It is the VETERAN who
salutes the Flag,



It is the VETERAN
who serves under the Flag,



ETERNAL REST GRANT THEM O LORD, AND LET PERPETUAL LIGHT SHINE UPON
THEM.

Staying Put

After a busy week, I have decided that today, I am staying put. No scurrying off to run errands, no taking care of the grandbabies and certainly no shopping!
There will be nothing but home time for this ol' grammy.
I had the pleasure of my Tomer's company for coffee this morning and together we watched, our resident Mama Rabbit give her Baby Bunny the tour of their (our) yard.
Now, the Mama knows what plants are good but Baby doesn't and last night the heads of several Marigolds were snipped clean off their stems and left shriveling on the sidewalk! If they taste as bad as they smell...I say shoo wee, nasty! Believe me, Tomer was not happy but thankfully, we had extra plants and the bare ones have already been replaced.
The laundry is swishing away downstairs and I plan to make and cut out some lettering for our Sunday School Bulletin Board. A new quarter starts next week and that means a new lesson theme begins...hence, re-do of the Bulletin Board. Maybe, I will post a photo of the finished project???
Well, I am off to laundrocize and do whatever I set my mind to...Hmmm, thinking that will be a few Word Search Puzzles, a Mani-Pedi, visits with Tomer in the back yard (in between rain drops) and you know that will include several Coffee breaks. Lol. Ta-ta for now!
Have a blessed weekend and remember to thank a Veteran...Let Freedom Ring!

Extraordinarily Ordinary

Greetings! I haven't been in the writing mood lately...my heart just hasn't been in it. But, I have determined that today is the day that changes. Praise the Lord!
Life is busy as always for this ol' grammy. Softball and TBall games have commenced, caring for and loving my family and being active in Church helps give my life meaning and purpose.
God is faithful...He created us for a purpose. Yes, He did!
Today, I have cleaned, (Tomer says I'm on a cleaning binge) beds have been stripped, comforters and blankets all washed and put back on the beds. For Supper I cooked up a batch of Egg Plant Parmesan and cut a bizillion calories, by not breading nor frying it in a ton of oil. Surprisingly, it was as yummy as ever! Goes to show that we can eat healthy and still have it taste good.
Just another ordinary day around here...I don't think so.
Serving God, taking care of my home and loving my family. These things make my life extraordinary!

~Blessings

Easters Promise

Why did Jesus fold the linen burial cloth after His resurrection? I never noticed this…

The Gospel of John (20:7) tells us that the napkin, which was placed over the face of Jesus, was not just thrown aside like the grave clothes. The Bible takes an entire verse to tell us that the napkin was neatly folded, and was placed at the head of that stony coffin.

Early Sunday morning, while it was still dark, Mary Magdalene came to the tomb and found that the stone had been rolled away from the entrance. She ran and found Simon Peter and the other disciple, the one whom Jesus loved. She said, "They have taken the Lord’s body out of the tomb, and I don’t know where they have put him!"

Peter and the other disciple ran to the tomb to see. The other disciple outran Peter and got there first. He stooped and looked in and saw the linen cloth lying there, but he didn’t go in.

Then Simon Peter arrived and went inside. He also noticed the linen wrappings lying there, while the cloth that had covered Jesus' head was folded up and lying to the side.

————————— —————————- —————————


Was that important? Absolutely! Is it really significant? Yes!

In order to understand the significance of the folded napkin, you have to understand a little bit about Hebrew tradition of that day. The folded napkin had to do with the Master and Servant, and every Jewish boy knew this tradition.

When the servant set the dinner table for the master, he made sure that it was exactly the way the master wanted it.

The table was furnished perfectly, and then the servant would wait, just out of sight, until the master had finished eating, and the servant would not dare touch that table, until the master was finished.

Now if the master were done eating, he would rise from the table, wipe his fingers, his mouth, and clean his beard, and would wad up that napkin and toss it onto the table. The servant would then know to clear the table. For in those days, the wadded napkin meant, "I’m done."

But if the master got up from the table, and folded his napkin, and laid it beside his plate, the servant would not dare touch the table, because…

The folded napkin meant, "I’m coming back!"
~Easter Blessings!

Yahweh

~Blessings and have a wonderful Easter...Jesus is Alive!

The Road Home

I was born in Erin. Lived in Tennessee Ridge...Mama & Bobby still do.

After being sick for over 2 weeks, it feels wonderful to be going at full throttle again. Days, of laying around and doing nothing are not enjoyable but in my old age I am learning to let things go. Believe me, nothing was out of place...I couldn't rest a lick if there was...but the bedrooms didn't get dusted and the laundry was done, just not completely. I had no energy...zip, zilch, nada!
So, today I am happily laundrocizing and packing our bags for our Spring trip to Tennessee! Yes, tomorrow evening, we will be on the road South headed for the place of my birth...sigh.
The Red Buds and Dogwoods will be in bloom, the air will be warm and sweet, and the hills, green and welcoming. Oh, I will greet them with arms wide open and a heart full of joy...Home is where the heart is and I can't wait to get there.

~Blessings

Straw Hats and Sun Dresses

After spending the weekend homebound, nursing a bad cold. I had to venture to Stuff Mart today! Let me just say...I still felt like junk and looked it too, cause all I did was shower and let my hair air dry. Believe me, as I entered the Mart for some stuff, I prayed... Lord, please don't let me run into anyone that I know? Thank God, I didn't...sigh.
As, I strolled about looking at all of the Spring and Summer finery. I had a brain storm! Ooh, I am going to buy myself a couple of Straw Hats and several Sun Dresses to match...Yes indeed, that's this ol' grammy's answer to flat hair days when I feel like junk. (And no one will be the wiser) Maybe, I'll even find myself a Parasol to complete the ensemble. I am a Southern Belle, after all!
"Well,Fiddle dee dee."

~Blessings

Celebrating...Ian Thomas

Today our family will gather to celebrate Ian's 11th birthday. Now, after having 2 girls...when Ian came into the world, this ol' grammy was not prepared for the energy and antics of boys!
What a joy to see his zest for life and his kind, loving heart. He is fearless on bikes and skateboards...yet, shy and quiet among strangers. He loves Church, his family and has a heart for the hurting.
He is named after his Papa (my Tomer) and is so like him. He has his hands, his thin frame, his energy.
While holding him in church some years back the Lord told Tom that "One day Ian would hold his Grandson in Church." Papa cries when remembering this...Oh, our God is faithful and has blessed us with this wonderful boy.
Thank you Lord for our Eman...

~Blessings

Happy St. Patrick's Day

From Saint Patrick's Breastplate
Christ be with me
Christ before me
Christ behind me
Christ in me
Christ beneath me
Christ above me
Christ on my right
Christ on my left
Christ where I lie
Christ where I sit
Christ where I arise
Christ in the heart of every man
who thinks of me
Christ in the mouth of every man
who speaks of me
Christ in every eye that sees me
Christ in every ear that hears me
Salvation is of the Lord.

Friends and Chocolate Pie

Good Saturday morning to ya'! It has been a week filled with things that I love.
Grandbabies, shopping, coffee night out and yesterday, lunch with my dear friend Nina. Over burgers and fries, there was non-stop chatter. Oh, and they had the best coffee and Chocolate Pie...mmm. We being raised by Southern Mama's, appreciate a good old fashioned slice of heavenly meringue topped goodness. Then after lunch we went back to Nina's and talked for hours.
They say that milk does a body good...well, gabfests with your gal pals are a magic elixer that only God could have conjoured up! We have vowed to meet once a month and I am sticking to it! The days of being an extreme homebody are over...the joy of yesterday's love and laughter fills me still today.
So, look out world and other gal pals and Pat that means you. I will be calling on you to join me for a joy filled lunch very soon!
Life is fixin' to be celebrated and friends loved. Oh, it is joy unspeakable and full of glory...and the half has never yet been told!
~Blessings

Heavenly Balloons

Last month while the Trent and Andrews girls were waiting to be seated for brunch at the Amway Grand Hotel...I was blessed to see this lovely lady passing by wearing a crown and a big smile on her face. The group of people with her were so excited! Nosey me just had to know what was going on. So, I asked what was happening?
"It's her 80th Birthday!" I was kindly told, as they rushed past and headed out the door. Oh, I had to be a part of that joy...I grabbed my camera and Lexi and I went out and joined the celebration. Of course, I did ask permission to take this photo which they so graciously allowed.
And then this sweet lady, let go of all 80 balloons and off they went. 80 colorful balloons floating towards the heavens and where they would go we did not know...sigh.
What joy it is to know that one day, just like those balloons...I will rise to the Heavens, but I won't be lost...I will meet Jesus and He will guide me to Home.
~Blessings

Busyness

Seems I haven't been here much lately. I sit down thinking, I'm going to write and get right back up thinking...I just don't feel like it. I have nothing much to say.
So, I will just tell you what I've been up to. Actually, this ol' grammy has been on the go! Between Dr. and Dentist appointments, the Sweetheart Banquet at Church, shopping and going downtown with Peg to pray for her son-in-law, who had surgery for Lung Cancer...please pray for Jimmy and his wife Geri, not just for his healing but for their Salvation.
Thank You from Peg.
Well, February is chock full of Birthday's and that makes it a happy month around here! So far, we have celebrated Xavier and Michael's (Kell's husband). Xavier's menu was Fried Cabbage and Noodles, Chicken Legs and homemade Mac and Cheese. (Mac and Cheese was for Michael) Oh, and of course we had Cake and Ice cream! Kellerbell's birthday was yesterday. So, yesterday morning I made her favorite Williams Sausage Patties, homemade Biscuits and Gravy. I Surely, missed Mama and Daddy for that smell is home to me...sigh. Sunday, after Church we will celebrate both Kell and Maddy's birthdays with Lasagna and whatever else is requested. Ian's birthday is next month and I already know that he wants. Yep, Fried Cabbage and Noodles! That boy ate 3 helpings the other night and then moaned about being too full! Lol.
Tuesday Night, I was asked to be the host speaker at one of our Life Groups. Yikes! I haven't spoken in front of Adults in so long...I was scared! Believe me, I did lots of praying and with the help of the Lord I got through it and actually had a great time! I told them right off that I am used to teaching 6 and 7 year olds not Adults. Thank God for Mariann because she broke the ice and said "Do you want us to sit in the floor?" Laughing, I told them I'd give them all a cookie afterwards if they did.
I love the people of our Church...they are family to me. We have been through much together and God as always, is faithful. Change is not easy but we need to embrace it when it is for our good. Just as the Seasons change, so must I and I am ready for whatever He calls me to.
Now, I will go change loads of laundry...Jesus is even changing my dislike of laundrocizing!
Blessings~

Gabfests...

Every Tuesday night for almost 7 years I have been meeting my pal Peg for coffee. After reading the article below, sent to me by Louise...I now know that our gabfests are keeping us, not only connected but fit and healthy! So, come on gals get with a friend and enjoy the blessing...it does a body good.

They Teach This at Stanford

"I just finished taking an evening class at Stanford. The last lecture was on the mind-body connection - the relationship between stress and disease. The speaker (head of psychiatry at Stanford) said, among other things, that one of the best things that a man could do for his health is to be married to a woman whereas for a woman, one of the best things she could do for her health was to nurture her relationships with her girlfriends. At first everyone laughed, but he was serious.

Women connect with each other differently and provide support systems that help each other to deal with stress and difficult life experiences. Physically this quality “girlfriend time" helps us to create more serotonin - a neurotransmitter that helps combat depression and can create a general feeling of well being. Women share feelings whereas men often form relationships around activities. They rarely sit down with a buddy and talk about how they feel about certain things or how their personal lives are going. Jobs? Yes. Sports? Yes. Cars? Yes. Fishing, hunting, golf?
Yes. But their feelings? Rarely.

Women do it all of the time. We share from our souls with our sisters/mothers, and evidently that is very good for our health. He said that spending time with a friend is just as important to our general health as jogging or working out at a gym.
There's a tendency to think that when we are "exercising" we are doing something good for our bodies, but when we are hanging out with friends, we are wasting our time and should be more productively engaged—not true. In fact, he said that failure to create and maintain quality personal relationships with other humans is as dangerous to our physical health as smoking!

So every time you hang out to schmooze with a gal pal, just pat yourself on the back and congratulate yourself for doing something good for your health! We are indeed very, very lucky. Sooooo let's toast to our friendship with our girlfriends. Evidently it's very good for our health."

And for a double portion...spend a girls only weekend away with those you love dearly! I came home so happy and renewed...can't wait to do it again!
Pat and I footloose and fancy free.
Blessings...

Gotcha

Surprise! It is snowing again here in good ol' Michigan. Right about now, I think God is looking down on our weather guys and gals with a big grin on His face and saying "gotcha!" LOL I for one am glad we had no clue, because the news would have been highly overrated...like last weeks snowmageddon reports that we heard over and over and over.
Supper is finished and the kitchen cleaned. Now, I am laundrocizing! You won't believe it, but I am actually (in my old age) learning to enjoy this the least favorite of my household chores. Or maybe, I am just more aware that God has blessed me with the strength, energy and agility to keep my home, take care of grandbabies and do what he has called me to do. That, my friends is something that I truly thank the Lord for!
This post is going to be short and sweet...Tomer is on his way in from clearing snow. So, I will get off here and greet him with a nice hot cup of tea. Then, it's time to get Em and Xavie in and out of the shower and prepare for Church in the morning.
God is awesome...

Beauty In The Storm

I used a flash but it was blowing so that it stayed dark.

Last night, after everyone was fast asleep...I stayed up to enjoy the peace and quiet. Because of the weather my son-in-law David was out the past 2 nights clearing lots of snow! Since Mandy works midnights, that means that this ol' grammy has been caring for Miss Em and Xavie for 2 days. So, I was (still am) tired but needed some alone time.


The winds started howling and when I peered through the blinds I could barely see!
So, I grabbed my camera and stood on the front porch to capture these dark images. I find this weather so beautiful. It was cold and windy! Wow! God is mighty...He controls every storm we batttle.


This morning I wandered out back and this is the tip of a ruler, just barely peeking out of the snow next to my back door. Some spots measured a foot, while others were barely 10". Thankfully, it wasn't the 18" to 20" that the weather folks were calling for...Mandy didn't get stuck at work and made it home safely.



Now, I want to share this bit of beauty in the midst of Winter my Amaryllis (gift from Kell and Michael) is blooming...it is called the "Christmas Gift." Rightly so, for God gave His only Son and He washes us as White as Snow! Enjoy this glorious day...blessings!