Whatcha Doing??

 Church was good this evening and I even remember the homily! It began,"Whatcha doing Christmas?" Yes, some will be alone, some have no family, others will be grieving the loss of a spouse, child, parent, even a pet, perhaps. This is a challenging time for many. 

My niece called me to inform me of the family plans for Christmas. It hit me at Thanksgiving of not wanting to be "forgotten." So, tonight the priest's words hit home! He mentioned several ways to "reach out." I had made a mental list to call a couple of friends the next couple of days. 

Then the phone rang twice today from friends wishing me Merry Christmas!  Other ways to reach out could be by taking a meal to a friend, sending a note, taking time to visit...you name it.  

So, from my house to your house, a blessed Merry Christmas to you and yours! You may know what you're doing but there may be some who are alone or not in a good space.  So, whatever you're doing, somehow, reach out to someone who will appreciate not being forgotten. 

Ready?

 Whether we're ready or not, Christmas is near! This time gives us preparation time...shopping time, baking time, cleaning time.  What we don't go through to get ready. And sure enough, it's one  of the hugest religious holidays for Christians.

But what about preparing for something else!  How about preparing our spiritual life, ridding ourselves of anger/resentments, hurts and feeling sorry for ourselves.  What would our spirit feel like if we let go of grudges toward others, offered forgiveness to those who have hurt us or reached out to those in need helping ourselves get off of the pity pot. 

Yes, "'tis the season." But perhaps the season is much larger than what we originally imagined. Not only our physical surroundings need our attention but our spiritual surroundings need it, too!

So, when we're making our list and checking it twice, let us not forget our own spiritual needs of how we are preparing for the most important person.  Yes, Santa, but more importantly, that babe in a manger, Jesus.  How can we make room in our own heart so His love, peace and presence can come to us! Get ready!

 

Very Frustrating!

I just know there are those of you who have encountered frustrating ordeals with passwods and trying to sign into online accounts!  I have been fighting with mine for the past  hour, swearing I was putting it in all correctly!  Yea, right!  Then I looked further on my paper and it was not!!  Then I hit the wrong key or forget a letter!!  Very frustrating!

I used to encounter the same high frustration when I sewed or tried to knit!  Now, I do neither, or very little. So, I just gave my password attempt up, for now, and will continue another day. 

What do you do when very frustrated?  The topic can be most anything from politics...don't get me started and don't start with me yourself...weather, snow plowing, you name it.  And it seems with about each topic one exclamation mark is not enough!!! LOL. 

I have found myself refusing to engage in certain conversations and if someone begins I calmly say I really don't want to discuss that topic.  TV even gets turned off; too much is too much. My spirit gets churned up and we do have a choice about how we tend to it.

What do you do to tend to your spirit?  I know winter is here and it's chilly outside but how do you maintain a calm demeanor, warm friendships and acceptable relationships with others, God and yourself!  It doesn't matter what our frustrations in life are but it does matter how we deal with them in order to not ruin our own spirit or our relationship with others. 

It can happen so easily; it's best to not think only that our ways/thoughts are the only ones.  It might be best to take some space to calm down and let the frustration to dissipate! It's amazing how such a simple suggestion can help.

Please Consider

 I need some of you, my readers, to help me. Often many of you have said, "if you need help, feel free to let me know!"  Here it is: If I reach a certain number of readers on my posts I will be able to access some stats on my blog.  If you would be so kind and forward my posts to your friends, this may increase my followers, thus increasing my numbers.  

I know some of you hesitate to forward; this I understand and respect.  Others forward readily and encourage your friends with my posts.  Your help in increasing my base is what I need right now.  I am so close so hopefully you will see it in your heart to help in this small way.  

Thank you in advance.  Again, happy Thanksgiving to you and yours!   

Forgotten?

What are you thankful for? I have a medal that says, "faith, family and friends." Sometimes calls don't come in the same time element that I would hope for and that in itself raises my blood pressure some days. With Thanksgiving this coming Thursday time is getting short. 

Then again I have friends who face this dilemna more than I do and then there are those much worse off with not even a roof over their head!  I really have nothing to complain about, really! 

Then the phone rang, not once but twice with dinner invites.  "You're always welcome!" However, "being forgotten" was the bigger issue for me, of which I explained to my niece.  I am sure she understood. 

I truly have no problem being alone, eating alone or anything else on a holiday but feeling like I have been forgotten is a wierd spot to experience.  I imagine I'm not the only one who has ever been in a similar spot.  Maybe you've never even thought about it.  

For this I am very thankful that I have not been forgotten!! A blessed Thanksgiving to you and yours!!  

Courtesy of Pixabay

Touch

 Who and how many folks have our contacts touched in our time?  Not something I ever thought of writing about before but this is the story.

If you haven't gathered by now I have been "organizing." Today after sorting stuff for hours this morning I have a bag of cards from my husband's covid birthday drive-through party,condolences from his funeral, my surgery get-well wishes and others.  

Life has come at me a bit quickly the past few years that I never took much time to "savor" all the kind words and well-wishing.  Today was that day.  It's not a fast process, believe me!

What hit me though as I looked at each name were the memories of every single person, some that spanned a lifetime.  One was my first next door neighbor. We were best friends and when we talk it's like no time has lapsed, as we recall shared memories.  

To think all who sent cards of support during these times in my life...how many lives have we touched...and how many more whom we don't know about!! This is what flooded me as I perused each card.

Yes, friends now say, "yes, but look at the friend you have been to others!" True, but how often does it really hit our conscious mind to fully take in how profound it is of how and where we touch those around us.  We may not even have had opportunity to become friends. 

It could be in a group, when we spoke in a class, met someone in the isle while shopping, a neighbor...times and places are too many to mention.  These are all "touches." It can be mind boggling.

So, how does this pan out for you, for those in your life whom you have touched by word, deed or presence?  Bet it's more than you ever imagined!! Think about it!! 

Courtesy of Pixabay

Abundance

 I have been listening to tapes that help our brainwaves and one of the tapes focuses on abundance...not financial but in all other ways in our lives.  It's very interesting. 

As I write these posts I receive comments (which I encourage) and have come to the realization that other viewpoints really offer so much more.  

I remember many years ago when my place of work was building; management had announced one plan but then things changed.  An employee came to me and asked, "why did they lie to us?" I replied, "they didn't lie, but after listening to other suggestions, found that other options became feasible". 

Sometimes we never even think of broader options and need others' input to see different ways.  There are ways to do this without others wanting to kill the messenger! 

So, what does this have to do with abundance? Perhaps it has to do with the fact that when we allow others to speak, listening to their viewpoint and pondering those words for ourselves, we may hear something helpful, like I did on how to help others after the Helene disasters (in a previous post)! We can become a better, more abundant person for it!

Figure It Out!

Have you ever felt helpless in the wake of a disaster?  It may take some doing to figure it all out. I felt that way many years ago when I discovered inches of water in our basement!  I was panic-stricken...to the point of running outside, seeing my across-the-street neighbors, whom I didn't know, and hollered for help from them!  We are good friends now!!

I have good friends in Asheville who are enduring the effects of hurricaine Helene. They have texted what their journey is like, struggles and resources.  It makes me sick.  Knowing them personally, I would like to get resources directly to them but don't know how. 

The second and third year after Katrina I went to Biloxi/Gulfport to help but am not able now. Seeing the devastation along the gulf then, I certainly can envision the mess in those states now...and for years to come! So, rather than sitting here wringing my hands in futility I am hoping this little post inspires you and others to "do something."

You, like I, will figure out what that "something" is.  If I had a helicoptor I would fly rations in; if I could go there, I would; if I knew they could get mail, I would send money. I know large organizations are asking for donations.  That is always an option.  I am still figuring it out ; I hope you do, too!  Thank you!

Courtesy of Pixabay

PS.  By simply writing this post, several comments came that were so helpful.  It pays to speak out to share concerns with others!! I followed their advice and I feel better that I did!  Consider sharing this with your friends! Thank you!

Concerns

6 more hostage deaths, many battles worldwide, concerns for our own democracy and economy...and so much more!

Our prayers and positive thoughts, and our prayers,  sent to the universe can really move mountains, especially in times where we may think there is not much we can do.  Even donating in small amounts add up! So, let us pray!

Prayer to St. Michael the Archangel

Saint  Michael, the Archangel, defend us in battle.

Be our safeguard against the wickedness and 

snares of the devil. May God rebuke him, we 

humbly pray;and do thou,O Prince of the heavenly 

host, by the power of God,  cast into hell Satan and 

all the evil spiritswho wander through the world 

seeking the ruin of souls.   Amen.

Storms

"Look at the birds of the air, for they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not more valuable than they?"  Often during horrible thunderstorms I wonder where birds go for safety. 

Have you ever had a huge "thunderstorm" in your own life and wondered how in the world you would ever manage?  Being alone certainly brings a whole gamut of concerns;too many to mention here.  It's the littlest of activities of daily living that become monumental!!!  

Now, after another major surgery I had been pondering a few more things like appointments, transportaion, etc. etc., etc!!! So, all those things got ironed out for me!  As I was having in-home therapy, I simply verbalized these concerns to my therapist who told me she thought of all these things herself!! See, I didn't even have to lose sleep; she had it all covered!

We sat and made phone calls for the transport van and believe me, it took many connections and time but finally got all the wrinkles ironed out! Often a certification number is needed before appointments can be made! 

Today I called for appointments but the real challenge was finding the right number for the correct facility!! My advice, don't wait till the end of day to do this!! Minutes pass and nothing happens as quickly as we wish it would!

I have skipped over many weeks that have passed since I wrote my last post but sufice it to say that I have truly thought of the birds in the sky! I repeated myself so much the first weeks of all these "miracles" occurring of how God was taking care of me through all my friends.  One friend told me I didn't have to keep repeating it all! I have had time sitting here to ponder all these things, to see the wonder of God, to see His love all around in so many ways, big and small.  

So, rather than fearing the worst or not having answers for the next day, or block of time, remember those birds of the air! Friends are God's arms; if they love me as much as they do, I imagine how much God loves me even more so!  Those life's storms are huge but if those birds every need are taken care of our every need will be taken care of, too!  I can attest to it!!  

Courtesy of Pixabay

HELP!!

HELP! My dad once told me, "don't be too proud to ask for help!" How do you balance that with other messages, albeit old and perhaps not completely true, of being bossy and I should do it myself!! 

Lately, with another impending surgery, there is so much to do and it piles up, plus now my 25 year old body (ha!) "ain't what it used to be" and the fun has gone out of it completely!  

Ever feel that way? So many folks have said, "if you need anything, please call!  When they say it more than once, I believe them!  So, I have made a list, numbers, comments and all! 

Many have wonderful "gifts" they might not even realize! "Going to the store, need anything?" "Yes, I know that city great, I can drive you!" Want some bran muffins?" "I have plenty of time, sure I'll be there at 2:00!!" "I wish I was closer, I will pray for you,"It goes on and on. No help is too trivial, believe me.

 No I'm not worried, no, I haven't thought about "that" yet, just "one day at a time!  Another reassurance from dad, "it'll all turn out just the way it's supposed to!!"  I am learning how simple it is to "help" a person no matter what! Plus, in helping another we feel good about being needed. And thank you a million for all your help!!

Not a co-incidence!

Have you ever had a "co-incidence" occur in your life that you just knew was more than that? A faux pas happened to me last week of which I didn't know how to deal with but when a phone call came from an acquaintance updating me on a close friend's health, I explained what had occurred.

Yesterday I made a visit to this person who was unresponsive and expected to die. No family was there and I had not received any update.  The nurse said family wasn't expected for an hour or two...so I headed to leave.

Then I saw a voicemail had come in so I returned the call.  News now was that they were going to remove all life support as soon as family got there.  

I didn't know what to do but family was enroute...so I had a little chat with God; "what should I do?" I had nothing going on at home, and with no real reason to leave, I went and got a quick bite for lunch...very quick as I awaited their arrival..

Not even ten minutes passed when one friend had arrived; immediate family was there within 20 minutes!! To make another 2-3 hrs. feel like 30 minutes, I shared prayer with the family;  they then asked me to do the funeral. 

With an anticipated surgery with lots of medical appointments I didn't know how a funeral would fit in!  Then, the cherry on the cake, the date the family picked absolutely works! 

 We all left the hospital together and after I got in my car, I had another little chat with God and said "no way could I have orchestrated this whole scenario even if I had tried...thank you God!" I was simply overwhelmed at how perfectly everything had worked out. 

If we just get out of  God's way but keep the ears of our heart in tune with Him, it becomes so obvious big and small events are not co-incidences but His way of remaining anonymous!  I shouldn't be surprised but my own humanness gets in God's way too often. Yesterday was huge!

Try it; you may be as overjoyed as I am!  

May 27, 2024

What is Memorial Day?  It is a national holiday as we remember and mourn those military who died in any American war. A friend of mine always called Memorial Day "Decoration Day." I'm sure it's because of all the American flags that decorate graves in remembrance of those who died serving our country. 

I certainly think of the slogan "some paid the ultimate price to defend our country" and "freedom isn't free." We have not fought a battle on our own land since the Civil War.

After traveling to Gettysburg in 2014 and seeing the extent of that war through land and cities, I can't imagine what a present day war would look like here...we may not even live through an atomic blast to see the carnage.

Maybe age and experience bring a person to realize more and more what we have to lose. That means no longer taking elections for granted, sticking our head in the sand and not voting. I think it even means keeping abreast of local and national news. Being concerned about our future now can prevent future tragedies. It all begins with each of us. 

I don't know about you but I don't want to know another friend who gave his life to defend us.  This world of ours is too small; what happens across the globe can certainly end up on our turf!

Let's not only remember those who have died in various military conflicts but let us become aware of very important issues that are very pertinent today so peace can reign, not anger and war! A blessed Memorial weekend to each of you!

Courtesy of Pixabay

Merry-Go-Round

OK, have you ever had life hit you and it seemed like a merry-go-round that you couldn't get off? My life has been like that now for a year, with many big things happening. I won't bore you with all those details but only one. 

A few weeks after my knee surgery, Jan. 30, I developed pains that ultimately have led to a need for neck surgery. Details don't matter. I am waiting for clearance from cardiology for the surgery to be scheduled. The details matter to me, however, because I am also taking care of other huge decisions because of surgery and recovery. 

What I am realising is that I am on the merry-go-round but someone is pushing it, not me!!  Last night someone told me, "don't worry, it'll all turn out the way it's supposed to!" That comment has touched my spirit like you wouldn't believe. 

I think when we have done all in our power to deal with an issue as well as we can, it's time to trust that Higher Power, whom I call God, and know that He is God, not me! It also calms me as I realise others are with me in this journey with their care, concern and prayers!

Consider your own times in life that the "merry-go-round" just seemed to never stop...but eventually it did!  And it will for me, too!! But for the time being, life is making me a bit dizzy and wobbly  on my feet!!  

Courtesy of Pixabay

Same Weekend!

This weekend is a rare one!  A very special one to me, however.  My birthday and Mother's day came on the same weekend! I remember going fishing with my husband, and pulling over to use a phone booth to call mom, to wish her happy Mother's day. 

It's a bit bittersweet now, with all those memories and mom being gone.  Sitting in church this morning I remembered many relatives and friends who were moms.  What a better place to remember, in church, as I offered up prayers for each one. 

In one way or another, I am the person I am because of having been touched somehow by each of them.  As I celebrate my birthday and receive well-wishes from family and friends, I realize how blessed I am and have been! 

Even though I have tried minimizing this date, and the futility of it, I am thankful to God for the health I have.  There is a little rust in the joints that will be getting some overhauling done but I've got a good mechanic doing the work!! 

So, to all those blessed to have a birthday on the same weekend as Mother's Day, happy birthday and Happy Mother's day!!  I wish you many blessings!!

Flowers from Sis Sheri

Pain in the Neck

"Pain in the neck."  I almost laughed when these words came to me!  Often we refer to this phrase when someone bugs us and we say they're a real pain in the neck! What do we do about that pain?

I think there are times when that pain doesn't even get our attention.  Sort of an under the radar of our awareness, so we really might ignore it.  Then as that irritation gets worse we try different avenues to deal with it. 

That takes some time, for sure. But time comes when this pain really has gotten our attention and we try to "push the envelope" to find someone to help us figure out how to get rid of it.

Sometimes we find ourselves seeking professional help to the tune of a couselor, therapist, family doctor, even a surgeon. If the "pain in the neck" is a real pain in the neck, or any physical pain in the body, we may even refer to massage, chiropractic or physical therapy. There are so many resources, arent there!

One resource for many is prayer, asking the "Great Physician" for guidance.  Then an inspiration may come, a friend may say something that seems to point us in a direction; that indeed becomes our answer. 

It is no fun for any "pain in the neck" but trusting those who know more than we do can bring us to a resolution we never would have thought of ourselves!  Sometimes the solution is easy but often is complex and challenging. Time and trust are helpers! Good luck with all your "pains" whether physical, relational or spiritual.        

Courtesy of Pixabay

Hold Please

"Will you hold please?" We have all tried making a phone call when we are met with this on the other end. We usually say "yes" but often we  sit waiting, waiting...waiting! 

Of course, when the horse is in the gate ready to take off any delay is maddening! What do we do in everyday life when circumstances, another health challenge or an unexpected situation arises? We don't exactly have the luxury of doing anything differently but to wait! 

Covid is one example, impending death of a relative, another serious health diagnosis, an impending surgery...we all have our individual stories that have thrown us a curveball.

Waiting for snail mail, a phone reply or trying to plan our schedule we might ask ourselves, "who's in charge?" As my dad said, "Be patient!"  Yes, it's so easy being patient with every one else but not ourselves!! 

So, we continue to "hold" until the answers come on the other end of the line.  Who is on the other end of your line? I am trusting God to be on the other end of mine.

Courtesy of Pixabay

Dead and Buried!!

Yea, you see this title and wonder what I'm up to?? Well, here is the saga.  I needed an MRI and never thought a thing about it until my chiropractor mentioned the thought of a tumor. Me and my pea-brain had never thought of that!!! 

When I registered there was a hospice brochure sitting on the table.  Of all things! So where there were not even any DOTS before, now my imagination had so many pictures in my head and all the dots were connected! 

 So, I had my house sold, end of life details worked out and other things all in the matter of minutes as I waited to be called back for the test. If you've ever had an MRI you know there isn't a whole lot to do for the duration so I had a little chat with God...well, a long chat with God. 

I don't know that I would have prayed then otherwise. Well, the tech told me immediately what he saw and it wasn't a tumor!!  I could have cried with relief on the spot! Given a few hours since this morning's test I ponder and come to realize that our challenges in life can bring us closer to God. 

First thing I asked those I texted was "please pray for me!" While I was in this fearful pinch there was no one else to turn to who would understand possibly facing my own mortality but Jesus.  He experienced it all. But death wasn't the end! I believe, too, that "the best is yet to come." 

I am coming to take notice that when we get into a tight spot, we then pray and ask for prayers. So, maybe it's not the worst to encounter hard times, scary situations or times when our own boogy-man thoughts have us "dead and buried."  If that brings us closer to God through prayer, all is not lost. It would be ideal, though, to pray every day before a crisis occurs!

Courtesy of Pixabay

New Life

Today is Holy Thursday, the beginning of the most sacred time in the liturgical year of many churches.  During the service tonight the priest washed feet, signifying an act of service.  I went up and as he poured water over my feet I filled up with the most humbling of emotions.I ask myself, "What can I do to be of service to others?" 

During a penance service last week, as I was talking to a priest friend he said, "We are Jesus to others." That comment has not left me.  I am still pondering that as I put some things in perspective.

As we prepare and wait for Easter we see new life all around us: early flowers coming up, waiting to bloom, grass greening up, weather warming and other things.  These are all signs of new life. 

What about you, each of us? How can we make new with ourselves?  Perhaps a changed attitude, or a decision to make a call or visit someone infirmed, or to volunteer in areas that need the help.  It certainly challenges and stretches us but I think it will be worth it.

I wish each of you a blessed Holy Week and Easter! May you find new life in whatever service you might choose!

Courtesy of Pixabay

Sleepless

Have you ever had sleepless nights? Well, I have and it's no fun  watching the hands on the clock go round and round! So here I am at 3:42 a.m. writing this post. Problem is, I don't know what to write about!! 

There should be a 3:00 o'clock in the morning club.  Then we could call one another when insomnia hits! I have one friend who texts "u up?" then the phone rings! 

I chuckle because my one furball snuggles close, crawls over me every time I turn to the other side and goes back to sleep.  Now I know why cats sleep 20 out of 24 hrs...they keep getting awakened at night!

Many years ago I got myself into trouble at times like this when I resorted to self medicating with otc drugs or alcohol. That's no longer an option.  It's pounded into my head now that it isn't the end of the world if I don't sleep for a night. My body will sleep when it's ready to. 

Yes, I will turn a channel on for some white, green or brown noise, or put some prayers on, or music.  That usually works.  Little aches and pains should feel better after a bit of tylenol. Even though my alarm is set for 3 hrs. I don't want to miss breakfast with three friends! And being retired makes it real easy to take a nap!

So, life ain't so bad after all! And look, I have this little post written; hopefully, you'll enjoy it and may find yourself in good company when the Sandman hasn't come to your house yet for a good night's sleep! 

Courtesy of Pixabay

Two Years

Two Years...yup, two years!  My husband died two years ago today at 3:05 pm and I can't believe this time has gone by so fast! And I can't believe how I have spent most of this day, remembering him. 

A neighbor and friend of his who lived just up the street and around the corner was just buried today. That funeral was beautiful and the luncheon was filled with many folks I know or knew Jerry.  I am filled with gratitude.

I can only imagine the two of them now will be sharing "East Side" stories, hunting tales and other things on the other side. George had a long and frustrating journey to the end, so did Jerry, which brings some of us to a very accepting reality that it is OK to let them go to God, heaven and a better life. 

Yes, there are tears of parting but faith helps us to know that death is not the end, that this life changes and there is another life way beyond what we know here.  My dad recently said, "the best is yet to come!" 

So, I am thrilled to know that George was buried on this date. It helps me to remember it in order to support his family. His presence will be missed but perhaps his spirit will give all those who loved him a peace beyond all understanding. He's not far, just on the other side of a very thin veil. 

God bless you, George. May you rest in peace and enjoy all those conversations with other family and friends who are with you now! Hopefully, you will talk with your family and friends here, too! We will never forget you! Two years go fast but memories never fade. 

Coach

Have you ever been a "coach"?  I bet you have and didn't even know it. It pays to prepare! As I mentioned my upcoming knee surgery various friends and relatives offered good advice that really helped.

Most of their tips helped me to plan ahead however,  I looked around the house, saw all the things I would "need" in order to coop up downstairs during my surgery recuperation and I didn't use half of it!  

All the food I prepared ahead will probably hold me until next year.  Friends were so gracious bringing in meals, muffins and anything I might have needed at the store.  One friend was even concerned my lights were not on after dark so called someone to check on me!  Have you ever felt so blessed? 

This has been quite an experience for me to graciously accept kindnesses from others. It is something  to be home with the main purpose of just doing the exercizes, walking, icing and elevating my knee!  

Of course, it was mandatory to have someone with me the first few days but my friend stayed longer than originally planned because I think she enjoyed herself so much.  She kept me on track and regularly said, "I think you need to get up and walk now!!" That encouragement really helped.

I never thought it would be as good of a set up as inpatient but I have changed my mind.  With PT, OT, an aide, and friends it has gone just fine. I think there are gifts that come out of going through a surgery.  If someone called me to ask for tips or advice, I could now be a "coach" to them.  

So, thank you  to all those who called, visited, sent cards, offered rides and transported me, did errands or prayed for me.  It all was like a warm blanket of love wrapped around me letting me know I wasn't alone.  

I'm not kicking footballs yet nor fishing but I wasn't kicking balls before so that's a mute topic. Fishing won't be till May, so, will cross that bridge when I get to it!! 

Trivia

 To some folks the following details may seem like trivia but if not, keep reading! During my "prepare" visit for upcoming knee surgery I had explained to the nurse that I really didn't understand how the surgery was done. Friends had told me, "yes, they cut off the top bone, then the bottom they stick the new knee in."  Honest!!! My mind really played tricks on me. 

I don't want to think I was scared because I knew I would have all my concerns addressed. Have you ever been in a situation where you didn't even realize how huge a lack of information was until the real explanation was given?

Well, the physical therapist had a model  of a knee and in about 30 seconds explained it all!  I almost dropped my eye teeth and sat and had tears right there.  The relief nearly overtook me! 

I told her that I really wasn't knowing how when they put the bones back together (figuring they would need JB Weld, contact cement or something strong) how the top bone wouldn't slide off the bottom one!  No, I am not even being funny...I really just didn't know!

So, in one fell swoop I felt a hundred pounds lighter.  All my other concerns like how to get my leg up into bed were all addressed.  Nothing was too small to address!  There certainly is a lot to consider when we're alone. 

I might write a book after this!  Sometimes we may think a person has no concerns until we simply  allow space to verbalize the most mundane, trivial questions.  To the person having a test, procedure or surgery, nothing is trivial!!                   TRIVIA

Again!

It happened again! Kwik Trip had salt out by the gas pumps...a very handy spot.  So, I put the car very close so I could load in the bags.  I was trying to pry the bags loose, all having gotten a bit snug together because of the snow!  

That's when it happened again.  A fellow who was gassing up in the next lane came over and asked if I would like help loading the salt into my car!!!  I couldn't have planned this if I had tried! I got so excited for the help I took 3 bags, knowing it will probably be a long winter!

I thanked him and told him, "Your mom certainly trained you right" but he declined this complement bragging his dad up since age 5 when his mom died!  Yes, dad's do a wonderful job too!

I drove away thanking God for extending his "hands" of help that have come my way recently.  Too many things have just fallen into place; there is no one but a divine power that could get me through my concerns. 

It's amazing to see these little "miracles" happen but it is so fun to be open to realizing how I am not alone, especially when one more act of kindness happens again!   

Little Old Lady

This past Wednesday I was walking from my car to the door of the clinic for a lab test.  Since the huge snow this past week everything has been icy, with very few clear patches.  The frigid cold has played havoc making salt useless.

So, I was walking like a penguin, the sun was in my eyes, as I was scouting out the safe spots to walk on. It wasn't exactly easy and my walking was not exactly good as I anticipate knee surgery.

Well, I don't want to say that I felt like a "little old lady" but a van pulled up to let someone out and this gentleman got out of the driver's seat, extended his arm to allow me to take his hand.  He said, "I saw you checking out the best places to step..." Indeed, I took his hand telling him that was the nicest thing he could have done!

Such a simple, simple kind gesture of kindness...priceless!  What an example!  This will stay with me for a long, long time; I will certainly think how I might pass such an act of kindness to the next person.  It really doesn't take much to be a generous, kind, thoughtful person.  Thank you to that dear man who helped this "little old lady"! 

At Mt. Ranier

The Packers!

 Yes, it's cold! What's new! During summer it was hot! And with Daylight Saving's time it is dark!  So what else is new?  Every year it's the same cycle. Yes, and the Packers won, beating the Bears pretty handily! Their win last night was really new, with many stats predicting the opposite! Just like the bitter cold, what a surprise!

With all of the above, it strikes me that our spirit goes in cycles too.  I have noticed that what was an operating mode in earlier years does not quite mean the same thing in later years.  Rigidity falls way to a more broad-minded view.  Opposite ends of the spectrum move to the middle.  Black and white blends to gray. 

None of this is necessarily wrong, either.  Others have come up to me and said similar things.  I am learning, too, that "coloring outside of the lines" still paints a pretty good picture! Maybe age has something to do with it. Maybe life's trials and challenges influence things; who knows.

Waking up this morning brought a new day, a cold day, very cold.  The snowstorm earlier in the week brought icy roads, so cars slowed down.  Yes, when my sister texted and told me it is 69degrees and rainy in Florida right now I was envious however, my conversation with a desk clerk at an appointment this am would not have happened if I had been elsewhere. 

So, each of us is exactly where we're supposed to be at this very moment. I am so glad; the clerk and I hashed out a few details about the Packer game last night and I am so glad!  So chew on this post for awhile!!! I hope it just makes you smile!

Courtesy of Pixabay