Nana's Bits and Pieces

2010-03-07T18:07:00.000-08:00

Goodness, did I miss winter and not do any contributions to this blog? It sure looks like it. Spring is in bloom, the nights still cold but Gods creation is beginning to bloom in living color here. I realize for many it is still winter and I count my blessings as I'm out in the low 60's checking out each little bud or leaf or flower.

Counting my blessings.... makes me start to think of how many things are blessings to me in my daily walk. Let me share just a few....

My Mom turns 99 in July... How blessed my sister, brother and I are to have her still with us, that she is still very sharp and alert to the world. It's hard to get Mom out and about (she lives in an assisted living home and has NO assistance) as she is so comfortable in her lovely apartment. Going places tires her out, but yesterday, I went to her home and told her to grab a sweather we were heading out for a ride. She agreed to go (She was going to walk around the sidewalks but riding sounded easier for her) and out the door with Mom and her walker. We went and got the car washed and took a ride... all the time visiting and enjoyed what we saw. It was a wonderful hour for both of us...nothing like "mother/Daughter" time together.

Another blessing I have is the beautiful area I live in... SW Washington State along the Columbia River which heads out (60 miles away) to the Pacific Ocean. We have color where ever you look, mountains, evergreens, trees that lose their leaves in fall and burst into full bloom before they get leaves in the Spring. Small creeks wander through the rurul area's giving beautiful spots for fishermen to fish small fish. Along the Columbia you will see Fishermen with sturdy poles trying their luck for a sturgeon, salmon or steelhead in season. God's beauty everywhere.

I'm blessed to have been married for 53+ years to the same man. We went together in High School and married the year after I graduated. I'm blessed to be Mom of 3 wonderful & responsible kids who have given me 8 grandchildren plus 2 great grandchildren. How very lucky I am and blessed even more.

I'm blessed to have my little Sparky dog whom we both love dearly. For those of us that have had our family grow up and be gone for some time, our little furry friends are like children to us. They love us unconditionally as we love them.

I'm blessed and thankful for the little things, running water, electricity, phones and computer. Food at my table and a wonderful home to live in (for the last 47 years). Wonderful family members and church family members...friends I've seen and have seen. I am so blessed.

It's a blessing to have you at my table as I chat away.... Have a great day!

Fall is such a Beautiful Season

2009-10-24T20:35:00.000-07:00

I've so enjoyed the changes from summer to fall. The leaves of all colors jump out at you where ever you go in SW Washington State. Some flowers are still blooming in my yard... gerianiums, inpatients and a few nasturtiums and a few struggling rose buds. All will be gone with the first heavy frost so I am enjoying them as I can.

Fall is a great time to shed bad habits and be renewed in the springtime. I'm back working on the pounds, hoping to be back into my smaller clothes by Spring. (now I didn't say they were 4's or 6's but smaller than they are now,laughing.)

Laughing? You have to laugh, it's much better than crying. Crying cleanses but laughing cleans and put smiles on our faces... I want a happy face, how about you? If it is to be, it's all up to me...

Where did Summer Go?

2009-10-06T11:13:00.000-07:00

The nights are cold, the mornings have fog, the trees are changing their colors, the leaves are starting to come down... FALL has arrived, where did summer go?

We had a wonderful summer in the Pacific NW. Lots of Sunshine Days... We are so very blessed to have our definite 4 seasons, the most colorful Spring and Fall. Those are my favorites.

How was your summer?

Summer, Oh Summer

2009-07-22T12:20:00.000-07:00

We've had some wonderful weather in the Pacific Northwest. Some days a little too warm when it hits the high 80's - 90's. It's so wonderful to sit outside in the early hours of the day and listen to nature or in the evening as the birds are saying goodnight to each other.

The challenge is being able to keep everything watered so it doesn't dry out. That is a challenge some days but those days my hubby takes over. We both love the colors and sounds of summer.

"Rest is not idleness, and to lie sometimes on the grass on a summer day listening to the murmur of water, or watching the clouds float across the sky, is hardly a waste of time. ~John Lubbock"

Wonderful Spring... wonderful, wonderful, wonderful!

2009-05-23T14:33:00.000-07:00

Here it is late May already. I've been missing from blogging as I've been busy getting the yard, flowers, etc caught up. I've finally done it so now I can just pull the determined weed that appears here and there and talk to the flowers.

We live semi rural, just 1 1/2 miles from the main highway to the Pacific Coast and a couple miles from the hustle bustle of business's. It's so amazing how much nature we have here right in my own yard. More of it than I realized before my camera and I became great friends.

The mama duck at the top with her brood walked down the road (big hill) in front of our house., across into the neighbors yard below us. I have pictures of the parents before the hatchlings appeared. I think there are nine of them, maybe only eight.

My flowers are beginning to bloom and color is every where. I'm so thankful to live where there are 4 seasons. Winter is my least favorite as it is dreary and gray except when it snows and can be depressing. I live for spring and the first signs of growth. From then on my heart beats a little lighter, my face smiles a lot more and I'm into the NOW. So many colors of greens and a myriad of colors of flowers are to be seen everywhere. How much luckier can a girl get?

I looked out my window and

2009-04-21T08:37:00.001-07:00

Here was this beautiful Flicker (woodpecker family) eating at the suet hanging outside the window. I had to take the picture through the blinds but still got a great picture of him. Aren't those polka dots something? Double click on the picture and you will get a close up of him...

Mr. Tree

2009-04-19T18:37:00.000-07:00

This Cedar tree is in our yard about 10 feet from the house. I call that portion "my little back yard". He just got an overhaul with some fresh paint. He keeps an eye on the creatures that linger there to eat the seeds, cracked corn and bits that we put out. The squirrels, the tiny birds and the bigger birds visit here. It's somewhat shaded and a neat place to sit and listen to the music of nature.

Last night I sat outside as the sun was going down. A combination of a choir and bird orchestra was going on. The birds were chirping, some were singing their goodnight songs, others were peeping. In the distance a frogs voice sang out... Oh how I love Spring.

2009-04-14T08:54:00.000-07:00

This has been a favorite recipe of mine. It's easy and yummy. The pork is always so tender and good.

Pork Chops and Dressing

6 lean, boneless pork chops
1 box Stove Top Dressing (Follow package directions, adding drippings from pan)
1 stalk celery -- chopped fine
1/2 cup onion -- chopped fine
liquid from Pork skillet (add a few tablespoons water to clean pork chop bits from pan)

Brown pork chops well. Season with salt, pepper and garlic powder. Prepare dressing, Add dressing spices and liquid from pork chops as part of the liquid. Add celery and onion. Layer in casserole beginning and ending with dressing. Cover and bake 45 minutes at 325 degrees. Add moisture if needed.

Serve with applesauce and a bright colored vegetable.

Happy Easter

2009-04-09T08:52:00.000-07:00

I wish you all a Happy Easter.

One sunny day last weekend I looked across the street and in the front yard, close to the house, was a black bunny rabbit loping around. I knew the little son had just gotten it from a friend. The kids weren't around and it appeared to me to be loose...ooomps, these granny eyes couldn't tell there was a wire cage around it. Before I realized the cage bit, I had already dialed their number. They answered about the time I figured it out. Then I had to admit what I had done.

How many times do we "not really see" the whole situation in life and go by what the first glace tells us?

During this Easter Season and on, I'm going RE=THINK the first glances realizing there is always more than what meets the eyes.

At first glance, Jesus had died on the cross. The second glance saw him alive once again and the Third glance saw him raise up into the heavens to be with God. Now I await my glance when I, too, leave this earth and will be with Him. Selfishly I'm planning on enjoying many years here still learning and loving, but when I do go, I will be able to verify more than the first glances seen by others but, unseen, believed by me.

Happy Easter to you, whether it is the belief of bunnies and eggs and chicks or the celebration of our Risen Lord.

2009-04-05T10:42:00.001-07:00

Make a Smilebox slideshow

Cute little guy

2009-03-29T22:42:00.001-07:00

We saw sunshine today and blue sky. What a wondrous day in spite of the coolness and wind. Really makes a person's heart sing when the sun shines.

Won't be long until it lasts more than a few hours or a day at a time. Then I'm really looking forward to playing with my camera.

Hope your day was a great one, too.

My gift from my sister

2009-03-28T09:31:00.000-07:00

As I shared the other day, I bought a new camera and am learning to take good pictures. My sister is very involved in creating "pages" with her pictures. She's been after me to send her the one's I've taken so she could see them. I never dreamed she would put them together and send me this picture.

I just had to share with you.... Happy Spring

Spring Has Sprung

2009-03-26T20:32:00.000-07:00

Oh how I love Daffodils in the spring time. One of the early signs of Spring.

I'm learning my camera (trying to learn how not to shake, laughing. I'm after some bird pictures to share. We have a red headed sapsucker of the woodpecker family but so far I haven't been able to get him to show his whole body to the camera. So far, I've gotten a blurry red head...

Camera and Recipe

2009-03-14T18:26:00.000-07:00

I have ordered a new digital camera. It'll be here next week. Then I can show you pictures that I've taken as I get into the habit of daily walks with Spring on the way.

When I started my blog I showed you pictures my sister had taken. Sister's like to compete, grinning, so we will see what I will be able to come up with.

I'm sure behind on this blog but haven't felt well for a while and I promise I will be doing much better.

So I leave you now with a yummy recipe to try...

Pork Chops and Dressing
(So tender and yummy. Serve with applesauce and a vegetable)

6 lean, boneless pork chops
1 box Stove Top Dressing
1 stalk celery -- chopped fine
1/2 cup onion -- chopped fine
liquid from Pork skillet

Brown pork chops well. Prepare dressing, celery and onion. Add dressing spices and liquid from pork chops as part of the liquid. Layer in casserole beginning and ending with dressing. Cover and bake 45 minutes at 325 degrees. Add moisture if needed.

Snow again

2009-03-07T09:37:00.000-08:00

Southwest Washington is expecting snow again. This time the signs of spring will show through the snow and we know it won't last long. Actually about 24-36 hours.

My daffodils are getting close to blooming and green is beginning to show on the lilac's and wild bushes in amongst the trees.

The bird watching is fun along with the squirrels scurrying around in the front yard. We have a beautiful red headed Sap Sucker drilling on some wood to let others know he is around. So many different kinds of birds are feeding at the feeders.

Yeah, Spring is coming, Spring is coming. Yipee!

Sunday's

2009-03-01T08:56:00.000-08:00

Sunday's are a special day for me. They start my week by attending church services at Stella Chapel, which we call our Chapel in the Woods.

My history with this Lutheran church begain 65 years ago when I was 4. At that time it met in a living room of a couple who lived at Stella. It grew and grew so eventually our little chapel came into existence. It has been added on to giving us a big family room for dinners and social times. A favorite is coffee and goodies after church or our 3rd Sunday potluck.

As a teenager I was in the youth group. We had so much fun. We put on plays for the church members and many other things. Our youth group met with a group in town and we had a scavenger hunt. I was almost 16 at the time. We broke off in groups and one of the fellows decided he would date me. I had not been allowed to date as the magic age was 16 but my family knew of his family and gave the ok. 3 years later we were married in this little church and the rest is history. 51 years of marriage this year.

So now you know why Stella Lutheran Chapel means so much to me. I feel close to God as I'm sitting there listening to the pastor. The people around me are family, my church family.

Thank you, Lord for all the years I have spent with you.

There's nothing like a few days at the Oregon Coast

2009-02-26T13:56:00.000-08:00

I feel so fortunate to live within 1 1/2 hours from the Oregon Coast. We went down with friends and stayed at Seaside, Oregon for two nights.

The smell of the ocean, the seagulls, the tide coming in and going out, what a beautiful scene. The rain and winds were not so beautiful but we love the greens of the Pacific NW and without the rain, we wouldn't have the lush spring and summer.

Because of the WWW....

2009-02-20T09:49:00.000-08:00

Because of the WWW the world has grown so small.

The other night I received an e-mail, one with a page of recipes on the WWW. I started laughing and this is why...

Years ago (like 14 or a little less) I had quit working. I had to quit because of my health. I loved my job, it was a wonderful one.

To keep my mind busy I got a new computer and found a 50 plus group on the internet. The group has officially disbanded but stays in touch via different ways... Anyway we made a Web home online. One of the most popular sections was a cookbook (it's still online at
http://www.50plusfriends.com/cookbook/

Anyway, friends that we have dinner with often, received the crock pot chapter in an e-mail. So the great cookbook is still traveling the web. That's good as we put a lot of hours into it.

Guess what goes around really does come back around.

Grandchildren

2009-02-16T11:57:00.000-08:00

This morning I've been thinking of my 8 grandchildren and how special they are and how much we love them. They are growing up so fast. Our oldest is 25 and our youngest is 13.

Each one has their own specialness. One is not loved more than another. We are so proud of each one and their accomplishments, their dreams, their lovingness, their honesty, their abilities. Of course they are not perfect. They are kids are finding their own paths. Some of their decisions haven't been the best but they have grown from them. We love them unconditionally.

And then there are the great granddaughters. What a treasure. I love talking to them and seeing them through the video cam. What a blessing the computer is for families that are separated by miles.

I thank my children for their children and my granddaughter for her children. Life is great, life is beautiful. Family is my treasure.

Pussy Willows

2009-02-14T15:46:00.000-08:00

Pussy willows are beginning to bloom. We don't have any in our yard but was visiting Mom and they are busting out of their coats. I love to see them before they start getting their pollen as I'm allergic to that. But they are another sign Spring is near.

We have so many birds fluttering around. Guess that's because they are well fed. It's so fun to watch them and listen to their music. We had 8 squirrels feeding yesterday. They have fun chasing each other and soon will be doing it in love..... mating time for them is near.

We quit feeding our raccoons, fearing for our little Sparky's safety. An eight pound dog hasn't a chance with a 30 pound raccoon.

Valentines Day...almost 51 years of marriage to the same guy, add on 3 years of going together. It's amazing as we are both only 55 years old... ha ha ha

Sunshine

2009-02-11T18:23:00.000-08:00

What a difference a sunshine, blue sky makes for me. Spring is truly around the corner.

Paying it forward

2009-02-06T19:03:00.000-08:00

I was just visiting another blog, CountryWhispers, and she was sharing the concept of paying it forward.

I've always liked this way of showing others that someone cares. Sometimes it quietly with out letting them know who you are and other times they know. Just seeing a smile on their face or to overhear them sharing about it puts a smile in my heart. This is how it works:

The first 5 people to leave a comment on this post will get something handmade by me or possibly store-bought. (It just depends!) You will have no idea of what it will be until it reaches your mailbox. I will try to come up with something that matches each person's likes. ( You will receive an email from me asking a few questions like your favorite colors, scents, hobbies, holidays, seasons, etc.)Each person will receive their package by 6/1/09 if not before.**The only requirement to participate is that you MUST make the same offer on your blog.**A small gift wrapped in a smile & a little support goes a long ways towards lifting the spirits of a total stranger who quickly becomes a friend. Please join the fun and "pay it forward."

A New Start

2009-02-05T09:57:00.000-08:00

Here I go again...

Today is the day I'm starting back to Weight Watchers. I quit going in October and it's been downhill ever since, so back I go.

I had been so very successful but when you have lot's to lose it takes so long and the $$$ add up but now I've decided that at my age I need to work harder to be healthier and it's worth it. So back to my doctor's goal for me.

The WW program is so healthy and I felt much better when I was staying away from fats/sugar/white flour. So many yummy evil things can be made with these products. Salt is a major problem for me and I've slipped in that area, too.

So today is a new beginning. I'm leaving the past three months behind and heading for my goal.

Thinking Spring

2009-02-03T16:05:00.000-08:00

I'm watching my daffodils show their green. Our mountain cedar is shedding it's new growth husks or blooms, not sure what they are. Fun to see the birds beginning to migrate back in like the robins. Won't be long until we will be seeing the pussy willow trees in bloom.

Can you tell that I'm one of those who lives for Spring, watching every little sign of it. Rebirth of nature....what a blessing.

Why did I start a second blog?

2009-02-03T09:19:00.000-08:00

Why did I start a second blog named "Fibromyalgia-What's Up"?

I live with Fibro and lead a local support group. There are so many diagnosed with the disease-syndrome-condition that do not understand it nor do their family and friends.

Sometimes having Fibromyalgia can be a lonely road. You sometimes doubt what you are feeling as you have good days and bad. People might leave you out of some function knowing your painful condition. You might excitingly plan a fun outing and at the last minute you find yourself in a flare and have to take pain meds. You then should not drive so you back out. What a letdown.

Learning to still LIVE is so critical for fulfillment of your life. Ignoring it or fighting against it will only make it worse.

Therefore, I hope in my blog I can give some idea's that might help people with fibro to cope and live a fuller life. That's my goal.

Here I go again...

2009-02-01T17:34:00.000-08:00

Today is the day I'm starting back to Weight Watchers. I quit going in October and it's been downhill ever since, so back I go. I had been so very successful but when you have lot's to lose it takes so long and the $$$ add up but now I've decided that at my age I need to work harder to be healthier and it's worth it. So back to my doctor's goal for me. The WW program is so healthy and I felt much better when I was staying away from fats/sugar/white flour. So many yummy evil things can be made with these products. Salt is a major problem for me and I've slipped in that area, too.

So today is a new beginning. I'm leaving the past three months behind and heading for my goal.

When Times are Hard......

2009-01-26T09:12:00.000-08:00

When times are hard it is easy to get into a negative frame of mind, called pity party. Why me? It might be illness, finances, world happenings, fear or whatever.

When the pity party begins, grab a large piece of paper and a pen and start listing your blessings. For instance...

Illness: (blessings) friends, doctor's care, family who love me, puppy kisses or kitty snuggles, etc etc Ask the question, "What can I do to make my life better in spite of illness?

Finances: (blessings) a home, food, water, a bed, warm blankets, medicine and many more things. Ask the question, "What can I do to make my money last longer? What changes can I make that saves money. How have I wasted my money? Am I sticking to a budget or just spending until it is gone?

World happenings: (Blessings) A president who is bring us hope, military who keep us safe, etc. What can I do? Pray for all concerned, tell service men/women or ex service men/women "Thank you" when you see them, adopt a military family left behind by their mother or father to keep us safe. Think out of the box.

I think by now you see what I'm trying to say.... Our blessings way out weigh our problems. Concentrate on your blessings today, I sure will be doing so, too.

I have my paper and pen ready, do you?

The Day's pass way too fast...

2009-01-22T20:31:00.000-08:00

Here it is almost Friday and I wrote the last time on Monday. Where oh where does time go? The older I get, I swear the faster it goes.

We are having long time friends to dinner on Friday. June and I became friends way back in 1st grade, 1st day. Oh my, so many years ago. We remained friends through school, when our kids were young we lived next door to each other and for the past years they've lived near Portland.

My other long term friend grew up with me. I was about 4 when I met her, she lived down the road from us and our parents became good friends. She's like a sister and a dear friend. She lives in Arizona.

My other friend I'm going to mention I found as a pen pal in a Girl Scout magazine. She lives in England and I started writing her when I was 11... going on 59 years ago. We talk on the phone now and then, send Christmas cards and oh I wish she had a computer but they don't.

I love long term friends. Well, I love short term friends too and all those in the middle. I feel I have been blessed with so many great friendships that have enriched my life and time here on earth. I pray I keep finding new friends as I walk this path (perhaps a little slower) in my sunset years. For those who read this, "Thank you for being my friend"

Sunshine

2009-01-19T19:32:00.000-08:00

What a wonderful last few days.... sunshine and blue sky. Not a cloud in sight ( all though the rain is said to be returning soon) and at night the dark sky is lit up with the stars and moon. So crispy is the air and the remaining leaves crunch as you walk over them.

As tired as I get of the gloomy days, I'm so thankful to live in an area of our country that is green and full of color from Spring through Fall. I'll take the winter to have the spring, summer and fall. A tapestry of colors whichever the season, so awesome for the eyes to see.

How blessed we are.....

Hiding out

2009-01-15T22:27:00.000-08:00

I think I have been "hiding out" from my blog. Been really tired and can't think of a thing to write about. I got "nudged" today by my sister to get busy so tomorrow morning I plan on writing.

What's this???

2009-01-02T09:13:00.000-08:00

What's this? More snow, all white again, sand truck on the hill. Hope the whole winter isn't this way. The east coast is used to it, the mountains are used to it, but we aren't. Snow snow... go away.

Dog Kids

2008-12-29T20:13:00.000-08:00

"Sparky"

Sparky is our "Dog Son". We always had doxies but when the last one died, we said, "no more, it hurts too bad". Then our daughter got a little white Maltese. I loved him (this was about 3 months later) Hubby said "I thought we said, no more dogs?" I said "yes, but...." He said "NO".

Our kids decided to get his half brother for me. I said "Yes"..... hubby shook his head.

Well the evening we drove to the airport in Portland to pick him up from a trip from Tennessee, we BOTH fell in love with him. He will be 3 years old in January. My hubby thinks he is the smartest, neatest dog we have ever had.

I think he is a spoiled baby (guess who did it?)... yep, both of us. He isn't a lap dog, he's a chest dog. Loves to lay across the bosom and snuggle his head under my chin on my shoulder. He's a great big 8 pounds. His hair is silky and has to be cut like ours does every 6 weeks. I'm keeping him in a shorter look but since he missed his appt during the snow he is really getting longer. We have an appt next week for him.

Happy Birthday, Sparky.... we love you! Of course our 3 human kids we love a lot more..... (have to say that so we don't get in trouble.

2008 Christmas Day has come and gone but

2008-12-26T15:46:00.000-08:00

Christmas Day 2008 has come and gone but hopefully the Christmas spirit will stick around.

Christmas in Longview, WA this year has been so very different. Nothing like it since 1968 or before. Snow, snow and more snow. Cold, cold and more cold. As I sit and type this, we still have at least 8-10 inches on our roof, huge piles of snow from our Grandson's digging out of our driveway. From the snowplow coming down the hill it left a ridge of snow along the street at the driveway.

Nope we haven't left since it started. We found out that even after 50 years we can still be snowed in and not be at each others throats. Now if it went on any longer....who knows... laughing.

I'm one of those old fashioned girls that have too much in the freezer, too much in the canned goods cupboard and 3 drawers of staples. So we had plenty to eat but not enough to do, so every time I walk past the scales I threaten it with not telling where the food went.

The fascinating part of this is watching nature (birds, deer, squirrels and raccoons) has been a lot of fun. We had lots of sunflower seeds, bird seed, apples, etc that has kept them happy.

Now it's all over and SLOWLY melting. I'm praying that we will be able to get out tomorrow and see the world once again. Pete is one that would go to dinner out every night, I prefer to cook. Guess who wants to leave and go out to dinner... yep, me.

I hope everyone I know had a wonderful Christmas. It's the first one that we haven't been able to be together with our kids (3) and their families. That was hard for us old folks who value and love their kids so much.

Our daughter surprised us in the afternoon, (came from Ridgefield where they have more snow) and brought dinner... spiral ham, our favorite Christmas potatoes (hashbrown casserole) rolls, etc. They left not too long after dinner but it was a grand surprise. We will be celebrating soon with all of the families together. That will be the treasure we will keep.

Well, it's almost Happy New Year 2009 time....the years pass by so quickly.

Snow and Birds

2008-12-18T09:10:00.000-08:00

What fun it's been watching all of the birds feed during this snow storm. We've had wrens, junco's, downy woodpecker, flickers, hummingbirds and lots more. The hummingbird feeders froze up a couple days ago so we had to thaw them and get them back out so they would have more energy. It amazes me that they stick around all winter.

I just talked to a granddaughter via the cam. They live in Norfolk VA. She loved looking at the snow outside via the cam. It's so much fun to chat with the little ones ( 1 1/2 and 3 1/2). Nothing is neater than when they squeal out "Nanaaaa"

We are not leaving the hill and to think this will go on to or through Christmas....

No Snow but.....

2008-12-16T13:44:00.000-08:00

Baby it's cold outside. Down to 16.7 degree's last night. The leaves go scrunch, scrunch as you walk over them in the yard. Even wonder if the plants I covered will make it through the freezing weather.

Tomorrow snow is in the advisory, again on the weekend. It might be cold for some time. Takes me back to my younger years when hard winters were more often.

Glad my Christmas shopping was done early and by the time the cold spell started they were wrapped, bagged and around the tree. Going to finish picking up what I need for Christmas brunch at our son's (if we can get there) today so I'm 100% done.

I'm dreaming of a White Christmas, just like the ones I used to know.....

Lights went out for an hour...

2008-12-12T20:54:00.001-08:00

The storm caused something to happen and we lost power for about an hour tonight. Probably a big limb falling onto the power lines.

Thank goodness for flashlights (that work) and oil lamps that are rarely used and lots of candles to make more light and we were set. Set to do what? Nothing. And then I realized my friend, my laptop, would work for on battery but no internet. Even found enough candles to take across the street to neighbors who had none.

We found out one oil lamp isn't working and the other one the wick is so old it didn't to burn. We will work on them tomorrow to make sure both are working well. We may have to use all of them again this weekend since we are in the midst of a possible 5 day storm.

Light is a blessing, when it's dark it's really dark.

Raccoon

2008-12-09T20:48:00.000-08:00

We've had a couple of raccoons visiting our front yard the past few nights when they found Nature Boy (hubby) would feed them some dry bread. I went out and got this picutre but all you mostly can see is the glow of his eyes. He has the biggest raccoon tail I've ever seen and I was able to get about 6 feet away from him. Since it's very dark out it didn't show up real well.

Crisp Cold Days

2008-12-06T08:37:00.000-08:00

Oh how I love them. There is nothing like blue sky, crisp air and crunchy leaves. When I take a walk it's so invigorating.

The crescent moon at night and stars out are awesome. What an awesome world and universe God created. I'm so grateful to be alive and part of the whole scheme of things.

Christmas Giving

2008-12-04T13:41:00.000-08:00

I just wrapped 3 gifts for Santa to give to 3 someone's at Somerset Retirement along with one for my Mom. They have a wonderful Christmas party each year for residents. It doesn't take much to make someone happy who does not have family at the holidays. Giving is fun at Christmas time. Our church always finds a Christmas Family to help out each year... to help make their Christmas brighter. We also give to Salvation Army for needy kids. Always feel a little better after dropping money into the kettles seen at stores at Christmas. All coins/paper add up to bigger amounts. Then there are the food drives.

I can't give to them all so I've picked which ones I'll donate to. I can't imagine Christmas without a good dinner. I know there is so much more that I could do to put joy into someone else's Christmas...I'm thinking.

A smile, a "Merry Christmas", a hug all are free gifts to give. They are unlimited ...I'll make it a point to show my Christmas spirit to all I come into contact with this season.

Christmas Shopping Done

2008-12-03T19:47:00.000-08:00

Yep, all done, plus 2 of the 5 December birthdays. Who was the hardest to buy for? Hubby, of course. No list ( well, 2 little things) but sneaky me figured out more. I sack, don't wrap. Don't send Christmas cards anymore... e-mail must do except for a very few.

Nope, not baking this year, quit that last year... less stress, less work and much healthier for all.

Now this all sounds a little negative but it isn't at all. I love Christmas... the decorations (much less each year), the lights (have a few outside) the smells (spray can on fake tree giggle).

I love the times with family and friends. Love the special lunches and dinners out. Love the Advent season at Church and the Christmas Carol's. Love rehearing the Saviors birth. Love the lights on the lake, the ones on residential streets. Such fun to see them at night along with all the other decorations so many have these days.

No little ones anymore...youngest grandchild is Cody who is 13 now. Our little ones are our oldest granddaughter's and they are in Norfolk VA - Navy. He is soon on his way home to Norfolk after a six month "out to sea" in the nuclear sub he works in. Then in March they will head for 3 years of duty in Hawaii. Those poor kids.

We also won't see our next oldest granddaughter and her other half. They live in Southern California and she will be working hard as she prepares for department manager in her store.

The other six grandchildren will be around, thank goodness. But we know they will spread their wings, too, and off they will go.

I'm really lucky as all 3 kids are close to home.... isn't happening that way with the grand kids. But we are so proud of them as they go their separate ways.

My sister lives in Utah, my brother in Cathlamet, my hubby's 2 brothers live here but another one in southern California.

And another gift of another year with Mom. She is 97 1/2, oh how blessed we all are. She is a jewel and the whole family is darned proud of her.

How lucky we are to have family. What a gift God gave us in family.

Jingle bells, jingle bells, off I go to play computer games. No list running through my head tonight.

Sunshine and Kindness

2008-11-29T09:29:00.000-08:00

I've noticed that some day's I just cannot think of what to write about. I have decided to use quotes/thoughts to get my thinking going. I send out a Thought each day to hundreds of people and know from responses how they make us think and ponder over them.

The thought for today's blog is....

Those who bring sunshine to the lives of others cannot keep it from themselves. ~James Matthew Barrie

I stop and think about the times I've felt more like rain than sun. In my case it is probably more due to my pain than my temperament. When I've gotten out into where there are people and I start receiving smiles and hugs, I suddenly find myself forgetting self and pain and instead feeling sunshine. Isn't it amazing what influence we have on others when we show happiness and love. It seems to bounce right back to us in such a good way.

The other day a handicapped person in a store scooter was buying groceries in a "sack your own" market. The clerk wasn't thinking and jugs of milk were where he could not reach them. I automatically told my husband to check out ours as I was going to help him. It was a little thing, but that man must have said "Thank you" 5 times while I was doing his small sack of groceries and the jugs. We went on and checked out and I forgot about it... until....

A few days later I went to Freddie's to get some groceries. I wasn't feeling real good and ended up walking the whole store looking for gifts for Christmas. By the time I was checking out I was really hurting. I was standing behind a lady waiting for her to self check herself out. I had more than 15 items and didn't feel I should go through the less than 15 items checkouts so I was waiting for an opening.

A clerk came and said to me "Let me help you over here" and took me over to the "less than 15 " and proceeded to run through and bag all of my groceries for me. I've never had that happen before but I was so thankful and kept telling her "Thank you".

I got home and was telling my husband about it and suddenly a light went on.... I told him that I guess I was rewarded for helping the fellow a few days earlier. Awesome how that happens, isn't it?

Kindness goes a long long ways....

Twas the day before Thanksgiving....

2008-11-26T08:41:00.000-08:00

.....and I'm sitting here doing nothing. Our daughter has invited us to her house on Thanksgiving Day and insists I bring nothing. It feels funny not to be cooking but, again, it feels good. For many years I cooked and then our kids got married and the sharing began. I'm glad we can share gracefully and allow kids to do what is comfortable for their families. We spend Christmas morning at our oldest son's home. All 3 kids are their with their families (this used to be around 18 of us) and now fewer as the grand kids have sprouted their wings elsewhere in the USA. We have Sunday dinners off and on with youngest son's family and our daughter-in-laws family. My Mom has gotten where she just doesn't want to leave her home (apartment in a retirement center) and we miss her at most of the family functions.

Memories of my Thanksgiving's so many years ago at home with my parents and siblings have faded a little but it was always a joyous time with huge meals, (Mom always cooked enough for extra's).

I'm so thankful for family and friends. Wishing all who read this a wonderful Thanksgiving with all the yummy foods you look forward to devouring and plenty of leftovers to munch on later.

Sunday Evening

2008-11-23T21:32:00.000-08:00

The weekend has gone fast. We went out to eat last night and had a yummy dinner with friends. My husband is one that if I would agree we would go to dinner every night but I like to cook and like good homecooked food so we go every 3 or 4 days instead. It's a change of scenery and good company and always fun.

Today would have been my Dad's 97th birthday if he was still living. He's been gone for some time now but I still miss him. I know we all have those who have passed on and our memories are loving and deep. I'm so thankful for the memories. My Dad wasn't perfect, (are any of us?) but he loved us dearly. He and my Mom had many years together and traveled throughout the country in their 5th wheel. They had many camper friends, many of those gone now.

Memories are great... we take them with us to our end of time. What a gift!

Is it Friday already?

2008-11-21T09:09:00.000-08:00

Just sitting here with my coffee, thinking and remembering. OOOPS, that can be frightening, (laughing).

Friday... how does it roll around so quickly? It seems it comes faster than it did when we had kids at home, faster than the years of working and now retirement the weeks fly by. Makes me realize that in the seasons of life, time flies. I appreciate so many things more as I get older.

Things like:

The time I get to spend each day with hubby and how our lives have become one over the years.

The time we get to spend with our kids and their families. They are all so busy that we don't see them often but treasure the moments we do see them. The times we get to see our grandchildren as they have spread their own wings going every which way. How proud we are of our family, they are so very dear to us.

The fact that I still get to hug my mom and get hugs back. I'm able to share with her and she shares with me. You see, my Mom is 97 and "still with it". I'm so proud of her and how she has spent her "winter" years. She reads, plays games on the computer (is a scrabble whiz), and has a smile that reaches anyone she comes into contact with. How blessed I am.

The friends we have, a life time of friends. I can't even begin to count on both hands the number of friends we've had since we were kids and they are still in our lives. Oh we are so lucky to have so many. My first friend, Janet, is still a close friend. We were so little when our parents started visiting and getting to know each other. Her family is still like part of my family as we did so many things together as families and as kids. My friend, June, who I met in first grade on the first day is still a close friend. How many things we've shared, good and bad. How we have always been there for each other. We still get together with them often. And the list goes on and on and on.

I'm still making new friends... in person, at church, via e-mails and more. Friends are truly some of the richest gems through life.

I could go on and on this morning but my coffeepot is empty and so is my cup. I need to "get into gear" and start my day.

The Hawk's Eye

2008-11-20T13:55:00.001-08:00

Another picture that my sister took close to our home (telephoto lens) of a hawk. I was amazed how close of a look she got.

It's cloudy and rainy today, very gray day. I'm not much of a gray day person but have learned to make my own sunshine. That sunshine might be a phone call, a friend stopping by, chatting with an e-friend or just visiting with my husband. There is always so much sunshine around when you look for it, each ray is a blessing for that moment. How blessed I am to see and recognize those rays of sunshine.

Our Downy Woodpecker

2008-11-19T13:58:00.000-08:00

A few days ago, I shared with you that we had a Downy Woodpecker eating the suet. He came back again yesterday. My camera isn't as good as my sisters was with the other pictures but at least I got one of him. It could be the same guy who was drumming on a wooden house that is hooked to our blue spruce tree this spring. He was around in the early hours (5:30-6:30 a.m.) drumming away and then sometimes in the evening. It went on for probably a month or more. Don't know if he ever found the love of his life or not.

The squirrels were eating at the back feeder today getting the seed up off the ground where a bunch fell as my hubby was filling the feeder. Sparky, our little "dog-son" was very happy as he had his friends to play with. It's really funny to watch as they tease each other. The little 8 pound guy can't figure out why he can't scurry up the trees like the squirrels do.

Love those Squirrels

2008-11-18T09:08:00.000-08:00

This is one of our front yard squirrels. We live about 5 miles from the lake where they originally stayed. Over the years they have migrated miles out into the more urban area.

One day a couple weeks ago we had 11 of them scurrying around in our front yard. They were having a good time "aerating" our lawn burying their sunflower seeds for dinner during the winter. It was "squirrelly" with squirrels chasing each other. They are so fun to watch. We feed them sunflower seeds each morning. You can watch them walking the telephone and power lines to their next course of food.

Nature is so fun to observe. Love being retired so there is time to just sit and watch all nature's glory. What a big plan God had when he created all these awesome things.

My birds and the suet

2008-11-17T17:07:00.000-08:00

If you don't have many birds and have a kitchen window or one where you look out a lot, hang a suet box with a suet block inside. You will be amazed at the different birds that come to feed all winter long. I love watching mine. Right now it's a lot of little birds, but as I said the other day, Mr. Downy Woodpecker came for dinner.

Nature is so wonderful to watch, whether it's a little black and orange furry caterpillar or or a bird in the sky. Even at dusk you can watch the bat's fly around above, catching their bugs for their feast that night.

Take time to smell the roses... enjoy the wonders all about you. I sure do!

2008-11-16T13:23:00.000-08:00

Just thinking about things I'm thankful for......

My faith in God
The sun that comes up in the mornings and the moon at night
Our 3 children, 3 in-law kids, 8 grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren
The joyous sounds of family members when we are together
A dear husband for over 50 years, what a guy!
Great Sister and Brother
A Mom who is still here to give hugs (97)
Our little Sparky, what sparkle he can put in our eyes and heart
Friends ... forever friends, new friends and one's we picked up along the way. What blessings
My computer and my computer friends

And so very much more... I'm a lucky gal!!

2008-11-14T21:13:00.000-08:00

Not much to write about as this has been a pain day and those days I don't think well. I did go to Wallyworld and then to my Mom's. What a blessing she is to me. She's 97 years old, very sharp for her age and looks forward to visits. I'm proud of her. She loves her computer games (scrabble, cards, jig saw puzzles, etc) and spends a lot of time playing them. She loves to read, has changed to bigger size print. I have got to remember to call and see if it is time to get her eyes checked and make the appointment. So hard to remember every thing.

It's dry out and the leaves are crunchy in the back yard when I go out with Sparky to do his thing. He likes the dry days much better even if they are cold.

I've started doing a little Christmas shopping. Got hubby a computer game today, have Mom's done and a friends. Still have a lot to do. So glad I have a Christmas fund I started a few years ago. So nice when that money is there for Christmas each year. The family is growing bigger by the year and I'm beginning to cut back a little on the gifts. The love is the same or more, though, and I guess that is what counts.

2008-11-13T12:00:00.000-08:00

I love our hummingbirds. We have them year around in spite of freezing weather and snow. The winter ones are Anna's that migrate down. The little ones go south. Some years I've had to bring their food inside and thaw it so they can drink. They are all so colorful. Did you know the neck consists of rounded feathers that look like sequins? They become quite tame and are not frightened if you are in the vicinity of the feeders. I've never found a nest but think they are up in the cedar tree or in the ivy bank. That's where they "zoom" a lot in the spring and summer.

We had a wind and rain storm yesterday so the little guys don't fly around as much and use up their energy so they feed less often. There's some sunshine today and they are active once again.

Rain, Rain, Go Away

2008-11-12T20:32:00.000-08:00

It's poured all day, gutters are running over, leaves piling up plugging them. What a job for city workers. It's easy to forget about appreciating people in the background, but I saw so many of them working out in the downpours today, that I was reminded to appreciate them even more.

And the rain? Well, I love the seasons, I love the green and flowers in the Spring, the summer daisies and eating outside in the summers, the colors of fall and even the snow in the winter. But gray days drag me down, I need light and more light. So.... if I want the seasons I have to put up with the rain and I will gladly do just that.

Little Sparky hasn't been very happy having to go outside today. He waits until he can't wait any longer and then reluctantly runs outside at the last minute.

For me, it's an early bedtime tonight. Big meeting today and I'm tired and achy. Goodnight

2008-11-11T18:33:00.001-08:00

Well, I've already blown it....it's been more than a week since creating this blog and this is only my second writing. It's typically fall now, rain and wind and leaves and leaves and leaves. Once the leaves are off the tree's I'm ready for spring.

It's so hard to believe today was Veteran's Day. Seems like yesterday we were celebrating it last year. Time flies by so quickly the older we get... Slow down, slow day days and weeks...Please

Had a nice lunch with my 97 year old Mom today. She lives in a retirement home. I downloaded a new game on her computer and she is trying to learn it. She plays scrabble, jig saw puzzles, solitaire games and word games on her computer. Yep, I wrote that right... she is only 97.

Hopefully I'll be back tomorrow. I want to get into a good habit. Think I'll try the one minute blogging each day. Today we had a red headed woodpecker pecking at the suet basket. Wish I could have gotten a picture.

I'm new at this but here goes

2008-11-03T20:49:00.000-08:00

Fall has really turned from Indian Summer to wet wet Fall. I think the daylight savings time changes did it.. :)

Lot's of birds at the feeders along with the little chickadee's going for the suet. So fun to watch. Last night we had a big fat Racoon in the front yard snooping around. A few nights ago we had 3 does checking it out. Sorry buddies, you've already eaten my plants that you liked for desert. No more.

Even the rain isn't that bad, it's the darkness I don't like but I'm used to that here in the Pacific Northwest. Just turn the lights up high, pretend it's my sunshine.