Wednesday night New Year's Eve eve

Geez how did we get to Wednesday already?

Strange how slowly Christmas comes and how quickly it's over :(

still listening to Behold The Lamb of God by Andrew Peterson, I tried listening to something else . . . just not yet, I guess

House full of kids tonight although by the sound of things you would never know it. They are growing up

Good day with Amy, I sure do love that girl - saw some kids we have not seen in a while

Alyssa Jillian and Hannah made spaghetti tonight and it was good.

saw Matt and the boys for a minute - basketball will be starting for both boys very soon - they are coming tomorrow night for game night and chili

some really great news from Robbyn tonight

getting new neighbors next door downstairs

saw Krysten for a second when she came by to get her new phone cover

I don't work tomorrow till 2 yipee!

Friday I work noon to 4 then basketball on Saturday and Robbyn and Brian will be back

bedtime for this gal and no getting up early tomorrow!!!!!!

Christmas 2015

I woke up at 6:45 and got up so I could have my quiet time before Michael came to pick me up. I was to call when I got up or he was to call me if he got up before I did. But I wanted to have some time alone with God so I did just that.

What a blessed time it was too. So sweet. He has really shown me this Christmas season God with us, Emmanuel. How God became the human being Jesus Christ, born of a woman so the God of the universe could pay the price for sin that we as fallen men and women cannot pay. Such a truth! The old old story being ever new again at this time of the year.

I eventually texted JoAnna and told her I was up, she said Michael had just gotten  up and he would come soon.

What a morning filled with blessings being with Michael, JoAnna and Hannah. They take their time opening gifts and enjoying the gift they received before rushing on to the next one. There were many gifts for me, many of them brought tears, but I was told no crying so I did my best not too, but my heart was bursting with thankfulness to God for this special Christmas morning, my first one alone, since Andrew moved out.

My last gift from them was a pillow JoAnna made, a quilt type of the shirts Doug wore. I just lost it when I opened that. The tears just did not stop. I could see him in each shirt and being able to 'feel' the fabrics of the shirts just flooded with memories and the tears would not stop. It was such a touching moment, I was glad I was with them feeling the love and care in the room, and almost as if Doug were with us. Powerful moment. It's a really beautiful pillow too. It sits on my bed now and I cherish the love that went into making it. JoAnna told me she was going to do that I just was not ready for the beauty of it and the memories that flooded. Happy Anniversary, Doug.

We laughed and ate some great food. A blueberry, raspberry croissant bake YUMMMM! Some bacon and hash brown squares and of course candy and my very own Christmas stocking  with candy and a couple of cuties and one of my gifts was circus peanuts :) whoop!

We watched The Nativity Story and I was blessed again. One thing I got from the movie was when Mary asked who will believe me (that the angel told her she was to bear God's Son? Zechariah and Elizabeth believed her! So did Joseph! God's wonderful plan.

Hannah came over for the afternoon and we sat and watched a Hallmark Christmas movie and layed around. I got on the computer and played some solitaire. And cooked the beans. At 5:45 we packed up and headed for Matts.

What a great time. I am always blown away by his Christmas decorating! It's amazing. You just look and look and see new little displays and new things he has added. He really has a knack for doing that and so much stuff! I thought I was bad ;) It's nice to see how he celebrates Christmas :)

So many neat gifts from the kids . . . and when JoAnna's gifts were opened there was quiet a moment in the room. It was neat.

Good food, lots of talking, kids being kids and being loud, it was a great time. Everyone was there except for Rebecca and her family and the California girls of course. Sheila got some great photos of the night and a big group family photo, then families. What a blessed night.

Thank you, Jesus for your gift of family!

When I got home there was a message on my answering machine from Charles he wanted to wish me a Merry Christmas . . . so this morning I called him. Mary answered but she was just getting up, so I told her I would call her back in a while. I did call beck and had a really nice chat with her. Then she said Charles was still working on getting up he would call me back when he was up and ready to talk. He did call and we just had the nicest visit! I called my mom but they were on the way to the dog groomer's and she would text me when they were home. . . they must be having the longest grooming in history! I will try her again tomorrow.

Ready for bed now. This gal has a full heart!

twas the night before Christmas

Well so much for posting all week, I have been busy!

Tuesday I had a pretty good day, till I went on break and suddenly I was so tired I couldn't hardly stand it. Denise came up to the break room and asked if I was ok! After that my afternoon kinda took a nosedive. was really stressed out because one of my managers was really stressed and I felt it was my fault because I didn't take my break till 3 and that's when he came in and all of this was just dumped in his lap. I have never seen him so down :( I have really been praying for him - lots going on in his life I am sure.

I got home and was just in a funk. I got a call from Michael asking me if I wanted to do a Mission Possible! Sure I said game for anything. It was about 5:15 and he said Star Wars starts at 5:30 get ready we will be right there to get you! Whoop! So Michael and JoAnna came and picked me up and we went to see Star Wars The Force Awakens. Well, instead of going to the 5:30 we went and Michael bought tickets for the 6:45 showing and we ran to Walmart so he could exchange a pair of gloves, which they didn't have any in the size he needed so we just headed back to the theater.

It was a really good movie! I liked it a lot. They even bought popcorn! Sweet.When we got out of the movie Liz said Ben was working in the ticket office so we sneaked up on him ;) he shut the window ha! It was so good to see him! but we didn't stay long because he was working afterall!  It was nice to talk about the movie with them afterward. Michael really knows the Star Wars story!

Wed I had a good day working with Amy. Her back is really bothering her after being in the car accident! We had 23 kids and they were wound up! Wow! but it was the day before Christmas Eve after all! It's always so fun working with Amy. She really is good with the kids and makes it fun for them and for me :) I had a couple of new kids which is always nice. Bryan is going to be a really great supervisor and he proved that by coming in to Child Watch and telling Amy and I how he would handle a certain situation ;) it will be fun getting to know him better. He is my adopted Grandson after all (that's what he told me once)

I got quite a lot done after work and made another batch of caramels. I watched the Nativity Story and cried most of the way though it realizing again how faithful God is and how the old old story is ever new each year. Emmanuel God with us what a beautiful gift He has given to us.

Thursday - morning off got all of my wrapping done, last minutes things bought and wrapped before I went into work at 2. I decided since I had over an hour before I had to leave for work, to make another batch of peanut butter fudge. Yipe! I was beginning to freak out when the time kept ticking away and the fudge was not getting done. Well, it did and I got to work on time! Man we were busy!!! All 7 registers were open and busy! I worked on register 1 the farthest one from anywhere! I had a good time helping Chad get things checked out and joking around. It was nice to see the upper management in such good moods today. Then to be in the store with out anyone else in there was really different AND we had to go out the side door walking by Aron, Chad and Delaney :) and the parking lot was DARK no lights at all. Very strange indeed

Got home and changed my clothes quick and off to church. It was nice to see so much family. Stevens' Mantz, Stuelke's and Tricia's Brad and Candy, Mitch and Bree and the kids, Brent Nikole and the boys :) Josh did a great job with the music, new twists to old Carols. Sheila got some really cool shots of the candles being lit at the end of the service ;)

Then after church the kids came here and hung out and snacked Michael worked on my computer to help it run a little faster ;)

Ok I am pooped and heading to bed Merry Christmas 2015 everyone!

Monday Christmas week

I had a good day at work ;) I took some treats for our Christmas lunch that was today. Always so nice to walk in to the store and be greeted by several people :)

My shift was good. Antwon (not sure of the spelling) the police officer was there today and when he is there he will bag for me which is great! It was nice having the help and nice to chat with him. While I was helping a customer's son who was one dollar short on his order Antwon came over with another officer and arrested the dad of the kid! WOW that was so weird! The next customer in line paid for the kids order - I felt so bad for that young boy :( but that's what will happen if there is a warrant out for your arrest.

I finally got to go to lunch ;)  they served bbq pulled pork sandwiches, party potatoes, white cheddar mac and cheese, an assorted veggie tray with dip and frosted sugar cookies along with all the treats the employees brought. It was so good!

After work, I stopped by the bank then came home to change my clothes and headed to North Liberty to meet up with Mo and Viv Smith ;) Liz told us about a place down by Coralville Mall  Quintins it was very good. We had a great visit very relaxed and good food. It was so nice to get to see them and catch up, and to see and hear how well Viv is doing :)

I came back to CR and stopped for gas, $1.80 whoop! Now I am home for the night and it's time for bed!

catching up

ok many days to recap let's see how this goes

Wednesday:
I went to get my nails done and chatted with Kelly whose daughter Lizzie plays on Hannah's basketball team. Nice long relaxing pedicure and my manicure - well first in filing my tall man finger on my left hand she filed my skin! yeow! I jerked away from her and she apologized over and over. I told her it was ok but I had to wear a bandaid on it for a few days and typing was not fun with my left hand so who wants to update? It's finally better but still tender. My thumb on my right hand right next to the nail is split open, that happens this time of year when it gets cold so between my thumb and finger i have had two gimpy hands. Aren't you glad I told you all of that?

I took the Valley kids and Stuelke kids to church, JoAnna was picking up the Stevens' kids and while I was waiting for JoAnna, I got a text saying she was going to Walmart when she dropped the kids off. Take me I told her so she and I went to Walmart. We stopped at Aldi's first and I got some milk since I was out and some peanut butter, fudge making time ya know. At Walmart I got a new Sweater coat, I have always wanted one Merry Christmas to me! That night I  laying in bed reading when at 10:15 ish my phone(landline) rang. I thought it was kinda wierd but did not hear the special ring (for family) it was just a regular ring,  so just waited for the answering machine to pick up. Next I hear Laurie S's voice saying she was missing me and she loves me. It was the neatest few words I have heard in a long time! I got up and answered the phone and we chatted for about 15 minutes. What a sweet phone call. There are so many people from Valley View I miss!

Thursday:
Work at the Y and Hy Vee was fine both places nothing special nothing crazy. At least that I can remember :)
I texted with JoAnna about going to Cedar Memorial to hear Wash's Madrigal Singers. I was going to be there first so she said to save seats. It was halfway full when I got there about 6:10. Julia Clair came and talked to me. Their Maggie is a Senior (!) oh how is that possible? Andrew was in scouts with David and Andrew Clair. It was nice to chat with her and soon Mantz's showed up. It was a really nice concert, Colin's little sister, also a Senior and Mads co president had a solo on Do You Hear What I Hear - such a lovely voice. I told Colin afterward I missed seeing him at the house regularly. He said he had just seen Andy and invited him to bring Brittany but alas. . . she works till 6.
Came home and got in bed to read my book and cried. I stopped reading because I didn't want to be done with Leota's Garden just yet.

Friday
I got up earlyish to be at the dentist by 8. I was pretty nervous about having this tooth out but my nerves were all for naught. God's faithfulness ruled the day.And with it being only one tooth and on the bottom, it did not bleed like the last ones. Praise God and I made sure I drank lots of water and milk that I had gotten the night before ;) I had a cutie with my coffee then late morning I made some oatmeal and for a late lunch I had some chicken noodle soup. Never a bit of pain! Praise God for His grace and mercy to me! I have to have more work done, four cavities filled, four more teeth pulled and partials made, so if you think about it I would appreciate prayers about all of this. God has never failed to come through for me when I need something and He is not about to start now.

I layed in bed resting when I got home from the dentist.Finished up Leota's Garden and cried and cried. Texted with Mom, Sheila and Eric at the Y. Then, I put in a new Odyssey but it would not play so I got another new one and lo and behold it was ' Pokenberry Falls Christmas' George Barkley and Odyssey's version of It's A Wonderful Life' hand picked for me by my loving Father because He is the One who wrote my story. Later, about 12:15 the phone rang and it was Andy from Hy Vee wondering where I was. I picked up and told him what had happened with Drew . . .  looks like Drew dropped the ball! Not my problem. I watched Hallmark Movies all the rest of the day into the evening. Texting with JoAnna when she checked in on me and shared with me about Hannah's game that I missed. I just couldn't drive across town, just didn't feel like I could and since they had three girls with them, I didn't ask for a ride. Went to bed and slept great!

Saturday
I slept till 8 then got up and had a nice long quiet time :) that was so nice. After that I balanced my checkbook and paid bills :) always a good thing to get done especially when I still have some shopping to do.

JoAnna called and asked if I was going to Young at Harp. I said well I am not sure, NO! yes I am going are you? She said they planned to go to the Y so she would meet me there. I got my dishes washed, took a shower and got ready to go figuring I would stop at the store and take back the cans I have been driving around in my car for about a month! I got in the store and took my cans and Andy came to help me. I told him about Friday and me requesting the time off way in advance and that Drew had oked it. He said Denise was freaking out because it's not like me to not show up when I am scheduled. I stopped to chat with Cheri (a checker)  learning she was just getting over pneumonia! Then chatted with Dennis Linda E's brother whilst I got some turkey for lunches. Said hello to Chad and several customers who said hello to me. I wasn't sure if I was going to get out of the store or not! I was on my way to the library when JoAnna called and asked if I could pick her up so I told her I was on my way.

The harps were beautiful they played in the mail lobby this year. One of the harpists was JoAnna's lactation coach when Hannah was a baby. Hard to believe that was 12 years ago! Hannah ended up spending the night and what a help she was. Not only physically, she frosted and decorated the spritz cookies while I made carmel and peanut butter fudge, but also for my spirits, I have been so up and down and feeling pretty low about my teeth :( we did a lot of laughing!!!!!

Sunday
Church at Maranatha for the Children's program. It was so cute. There were these two little boys in the front row, the one just belted out the words really loud and off key but it was so stinkin' cute. The last song they sang was 'Go Tell it on the Mountain' and when they sang Go! they raised their fists and yelled Go! The last time they sang it the bigger kids led the little ones up the aisles singing Go Tell it! I started to cry knowing that was a Word from God to His church this season to TELL the good news everywhere. We sang Christmas carols and Light of the World You stepped down into Darkness, opened my eyes let me see, beauty that made this heart adore you all for love's sake became poor . . . perfect song at the right time. Then as Pastor Aaron prayed the opening prayer for the service I just stood and cried in agreement with what he prayed over us. I am always blessed how he says, for the next few minutes (for the sermon) let us only see Jesus . . . the sweet tears that flowed this morning was such healing balm for this weary heart. His message was spot on for the message I needed today. Praise God for this Holy Blessed season when He came to earth as a baby. God as a baby - Jesus the name told to  Mary and Joseph to name the baby means, Jehovah saves. Immanuel God with us. He came to save us from all of our sins and to stay with us forever! Hallelujah

We met Mantz's at China King for lunch then I putzed around and did a little shopping before I came home, which brings me to now (I napped a little then watched a Hallmark movie that I had sen before, watched the news  then came in here.

Ok I think that about wraps up what is going on with me sans the crazy laughter sayings and the strange dreams . . . thanks for reading to the end!

cold today! brrrrrrr

Winter is back at least with the cold air. No snow and I am ok with that.

being at the Y without Kay was strange today but it all worked out ok, she has left a big hole in my Tuesdays and Fridays (Wed and Thurs too but I will have Amy and Kim)

Jimmy asked Eric who was going to do Kay's job. Eric told him he had two more interviews but hoped to have someone hired by the end of the week. Jimmy then wanted to know who it was! Eric said he did not know yet. . . Jimmy wanted to know boy or girl so I spoke up and said one or the other. Then Jimmy said well who???? Eric said he would tell everyone at the same time, but Kathy had to know first :)

Hy Vee was good today the last part of my shift I worked at register 7 which is express right by the door. It all went fine and it never ceases to amaze me how many people come to express. I was so tired I was glad to get out of the store tonight.

Came home and did some almond bark pretzels, watched the news then M*A*SH then got ready to go see Xan's concert at Franklin! I was shocked at the cars! but turns out it was 1st/2nd then 3rd/4th tons of people. Just as I was getting ready to park, by Ashleigh.s house, I spotted Jillian, Issac and Sheila, they had the same idea :) so we walked in together, and sat together across and one row down from Brian, Robbyn and Alyssa. Xan did a great job and played the 'bells' on one song.

Now I am finished with this and need to go to bed (and read!!!!)

rain rain go away . . .

The sun almost came out today. I need to see some clear sky and sunny days!

Sat was a fun day traveling to Mt Pleasant. Hannah rode with Paula and three team mates so it was just Michael, JoAnna and me in the car. The games were interesting. Walking into the gym was like stepping back into the past. Open bleachers to the floor made me a little queasy and not comfortable at all! The girls had to squeeze down between the bleacher seats to retrieve a water bottle then a slide, I was glad when we could move down closer to the balcony walkway. It was so hot in there and loud! ugh. Girls beat Prairie pretty easily first game Hannah has 20 points, JoAnna let the other girls who don't see much playing time get some good minutes.

The second game the teams did not show up so it was a forfeit. We were to play Prairie again but they didn't want to play our girls again hmmmmm I wonder why :) So Coach Jo asked the parents if any of them objected to the girls playing a boys 5th grade team. Play the boys or don't play was basically the option. So they played the boys. Hannah had 18 points almost outscoring the whole boys team. The boys gave the grils a run for their money, but they were no match for the fundamentally sound, taller Warrior girls. We went to pizza ranch and had a nice time with Paula, Liberty's mom, Dave, Lizzie's Dad and Joan Paige's grandma (she is the one who went to Regis with Doug) got my Christmas shopping done there too at least for the kids' 12 days gifts.

Sunday I went to Maranatha and I was half an hour early AGAIN! sheesh The Mission presentation given by Kathy Knight was wonderful! Church was good too, they sure do a lot of really cool music that really speaks to my heart and Pastor Aaron's messages are always just what I need to hear.

Sunday we got together at Mantz's to celebrate Doug's life. 7 years, how can it be 7 years already? I had a great time. I love my kids and grandkids so much! It's really neat for me to see them enjoying each other so much! Got the 12 days gifts delivered whew!

Came home from work and baked spritz cookies only to have the first 3 pans break as I took them off the cookie sheet grrrrrrr oh well parts of cookies are just as good.

I saw Steve E again today at Hy Vee weird! AND I found out that Dennis in the meat department is Linda Elliott's brother! Small world!

my book is callin my name so am going to go read

sweet dreams y'all

Friday evening Dec 11

Just home from the Christmas concert at New Covenant and what a wonderful evening. Such great music and laughter and all the Glory went to Jesus whose birth we celebrate. I am so glad I went. June picked me up and afterward we stopped at Culver's and had a bite to eat and great conversation.

It was an ok day at the Y pretty busy then of course popcorn Friday. I got a picture with Kay and one final good bye then a picture with Sheila and Kay and I. I got 600,000 grand from Amy then she told Eric she and I were going to retire and he said oh no you are not going anywhere :) She will be missed terribly but life at the Y will go on.

Hy Vee was pretty ok but every customer who had a complaint about something not ringing up right any other complaint came through my line today ugh! I could just feel the weight of all of that descending on me! When Denise sent me on break I said I am not sure I will be back, she said I wouldn't blame you. But I did and finished out my shift and my drawer was plus twelve cents! whoo hoo.

When I was waiting to clock in I noticed the schedule for next week and I asked for Friday off because I am to have a tooth pulled. Well Drew scheduled me! He was sitting eating lunch and I went over to him and Chad and I said to him that I had asked for next Friday off - well there is a not on the time off box no more requests for New Years eve or New Years Day, when I started talking to Drew he started to shake his head no thinking I was going to ask about one of those days. When he heard what I had said he got up and looked at the schedule and went in his office to see if I was indeed scheduled or if there had been a mix up on the sheet. He said yes, I knew you had asked for that day, and I scheduled you it was my fault I will fix it. Those are words he does not say very often so on the schedule by my time on Friday are his initials, it will be his task to find a replacement because I did what I was supposed to do. It was nice to hear him say that I think he is finally beginning to like me.

Jillian and Hannah had their winter concert last night. They really sounded great and it was neat to see them in choir together. They had a nice selection of music. Once they were done Matt and Sheila and I booked out of McKinley and headed to Grant Wood for Isaac's winter concert, we got there just as the kids were coming out to get to their places on the stage! Isaac had a speaking part and he did such a great job I was one proud Gramma! Afterward Sheila invited me (and Ash and Holly) over for homemade ice cream sandwiches with chocolate chip cookies yummmmm.

It was so nice to see Holly and Ashleigh and get caught up with them. Holly has had some traumatic times but just got hired for a new job at Casey's, and things are looking up. It's so nice to hear how much Ash is enjoying her job :) nice to see the girls so happy. It was a fun evening.

Time for bed, busy morning tomorrow then to Mt Pleasant for basketball. Another busy weekend but I am looking forward to family time!

Finally the SUN

What a great day, sunny and warmer and it's December!

Easy day in Child Watch we had 7 kids total five at one time then 2 for the last hour and a half.

Sheila and I gave Kay her gift today and got a great hug from her. not too many tears

Got some more Christmas shopping done today :) got the 12 days scriptures written out too whew now to copy them

I saw a couple of ladies who come in to Hy Vee all the time working at the Dollar Store! cool

Matt brought the boys, picked up Xan and Alyssa Matt TS brought Jillian and Isaac :)

Women's Christmas party tonight :) such a great group of women.

ready to go read!

another cloudy day

Tuesday starts early since I have to be at the Y at7:30 but what a beauty of a sunrise this morning for a minute. While I was home it was so clear and so beautiful but by the time I was on my way to work it was cloudy and gloomy.

The Y was ok today. Mildred came in and was not happy with me about our 'policies' at the Y for putting people on to memberships for little or no money. It's only the Y after all - is what she said to me! and kept dropping the F bomb! Sheesh lady you are already getting a really cheap membership why should the Y just let you add any adult on to yours for little or no money. Oh well I just did my job and helped her calm down I hope. I have always liked her I don't want to not like her now. I did get to see JoAnna and her crew so that was good and some other funny things happened thanks to one of my favorite people but that's for another post.

Other than that it was pretty uneventful :) which was fine by me. Hy Vee was pretty ok too. I got to do lots of go-backs one of my favorite things to do next to getting the carts but it's cold out so Denise sends Chuck. I did get to see the machine where big bills are checked and a better way to tell if the bill is counterfeit. Someone took a fake hundred so we have to be extra vigilant now. From the date it was taken I was not working whew!

Came home and looked at FB for a minute till I got too sleepy. I knew Robbyn would be coming to bring the blood pressure cuff after 5 so I laid down on the couch with Mannheim Steamroller blasting under the magic nap blanket but it must have been out of magic ;( it was great listening to the music and watching the pictures play in my brain.

Dinner out tonight for 'Candy Cane Pie'  with Liz Sheila (Liz drove) Janet. Cindy, Dianne, Marlys, Deb, Anita, Jill and Deb's daughter in law and her Mom. So good to see these women and be able to chat and catch up with our lives. I sure do miss these wonderful ladies.

Home now. I got Kay's gift in the bag and her note written, I cried all through it I am really going to miss that girl. It's a picture frame with two little snow people on the base, and there is a photo of Ashleigh, Sheila and me she was boss to us all. The Y will be a different place with her gone.

Ok I am ready to go to bed and read for a while, I forgot how much I enjoy Francine Rivers' stories!

Friday Saturday Sunday Monday RECAP

Friday
I got home from work so tired. Friday is my early day and both jobs day so I was tired. Jing brought me a cool glass water bottle with two different purple straws filled with red popcorn! What a sweet gal! I was pretty busy with receipting when Teresa came in to do the popcorn, what a load off! Even though I like doing it, Friday it was nice to have that part of Friday taken away.

The afternoon at Hy Vee was ok I saw a guy I knew from 46/47 years ago. Steve Early who used to hang out downtown. It was so weird all we did was stare at each other not believing what we were seeing. He looks the same that was really strange, but cool at the same time. He wanted to talk but I was busy with customers, so couldn't stop and talk to him. I imagine he will be back.

When I got home I was so tired I lay down on the couch to watch the news, always a dangerous thing to do! ha I was just getting comfy when Hannah called and asked what I was doing and said she and her mom were bringing pizza and coming to watch Christmas movies. We ended up watching Christmas with the Kranks  - I had seen it I think at the theater with Doug but not sure . . . anyway I did way more laughing this time than the first time I saw it. After they left I watched some M*A*S*H* then went to bed before I ended up sleeping on the couch.

Saturday
I got to sleep in YAY then a nice leisurely quiet time, wrote some Christmas Cards and got them in the mail, a Birthday card sent and a Card and letter to my folks. I got my apple dump cake in the oven and got in the shower. I got ready to go downtown to hear Sheila sing. That was fun I got to see Matt, Isaac, Jillian Ashleigh, Liz & Ben, JoAnna and Hannah. Sheila asked JoAnna and I if we wanted to sing with her so we sang Silent Night and Away in a Manger. That was fun! We also saw Jenn and Randall from the Y.

I got home in enough time to pack the Apple Cake, and change my clothes then it was time to pick up June and head down to Johnson's with the group we have met with for over 40 years! It was a smaller group than ususal but what a blessed time. Great food wonderful fellowship, worship through the carols and a great time of sharing. Marilyn had asked us to think about what we wonder about with the Christmas story that the Bible does not really tell us. It was a great discussion, made us think a little more deeply about His coming. I think I will save that for another post.

I was getting ready to leave Johnson's they live out by Solon so it was going to take a good 25 minutes to get home, plus I needed to drop June off, when I looked at my phone JoAnna texted and said she and Hannah were home watching the Big Ten Championship game if I wanted to stop by and watch with them I could, so since June lives close to Mantz's I went there and watched part of the second half. The game was getting good but Hannah needed to rest because she had three games the next morning, so I left and came home.
Watched the disappointing end to the football game then went to bed.

Sunday
I was up till midnight and had to be up by 5:30 so I could be over to JoAnna's by 6:45 to go to Mt Vernon for the games. the first game was at 8 while we were waiting for the game to start Kristen Shaw came up to me and said hello and we chatted for a bit her daughter played on the opposing team. It was nice to see her she said she has 4 children her husband was with their older son at another game another place. Warrior girls beat them handily. I felt bad but not too bad! ha It was FREEZING in the gym. I thought about opening the outside doors just to get it warmer in there! Shesh!!!!

During the game Hannah had a girl on the other team land on her knee and she was crying pretty bad. I was pretty worried when JoAnna pulled her out and had her sit and flexed it, had her up walking around then sitting with ice on it. She played a little more but not much. I prayed and prayed and I know JoAnna had prayed over Hannah because that's what she does for the girls when they get hurt.

After the game I was sitting over at a table away from the girls reading Leota's garden (which I do not remember at all so it's great!) when JoAnna came over and you could tell she was shaken. She said, ' I just don't know what to do about Hannah, do I play her or rest her.' One game is not worth her really injuring her knee more. So we prayed together asking for wisdom and healing again for Hannah and peace for JoAnna. All this time Hannah sat with the girls with her leg propped up on the table with ice on her knee as they played with dice. (on the way home Hannah said when she was on the floor the other girl kicked her in the knee) I don't like players who play dirty.

One of Hannah's teammates had a knee brace in her bag so Hannah wore that the second game and played more. That seemed to help. At one point there was what we thought was a simple jump ball we we heard techincal foul on number 1 - wait that's Hannah! What the?????? I am still not clear why she had a technical foul called on her, but what happened according to Hannah when she and the other girl went for the ball they ended up on the floor and Hannah's hand was under the girls head. When she pulled her hand out the girls head went down and hit the floor, the other girl rolled over and slammed the ball on the floor. So I am still not sure what was up. Well Marion got two free throws plus the ball due to the T. Hannah was so upset! She was on the court in front of the bench talking to "Coach Jo" crying saying she needed a sub and "Coach Jo" said Hannah Sue, you are not coming out of the game you are not getting a sub, you are a much better player than this now get out there and do what you know to do. Well that did it because Hannah got a missed shot rebound and she came down the court her eyes flashing, her nostrils flaring - daring anyone to stop her and that was that. No more fear in that girl and she played like a Jr Warrior the rest of the game. AT 2 minutes left in the game the other coach was yelling at our time keeper and the ref because the clock was supposed to stop and it was running, Faith had never run the clock before and the coach whose team was down by 12 was having a hissy fit. Ref said calm down! I am trying to get this and she is new to the clock I will fix it! When the assistant coach said something and the ref  T ed him up! Ha! JoAnna looked over at me and said, payback!

The third game was a glorified practice, which was nice so the girls could run some plays at game speed which they can never really do in a practice. The other team was no competition at all . After we were done with getting T shirts for winning and taking pictures we went uptown to a pizza place with Hannah's team mate Paige, her Mom ,Kate and Kate's mom but I don't know her name. I wish I would have asked her yesterday, duh, my mind must have been just lazy because I didn't ask her anything I wished I would have after our lunch. She knew Doug she was a couple of years behind him at Regis.

Dedric and his team came in after we had ordered, to eat the pizza's they had ordered by phone. They had been at a tournament in Tipton.

Sunday evening I went to Dubuque with Dale and Marlys Starlight Carols at the Marble Chapel at Emmaus College. What beautiful music! Several songs with different arrangements it was truly wonderful! When we were waiting for the concert to start there were three girls one playing piano and the other two playing violins. We were sitting by a gal who worked in the business office who knew Mr Glock our bible study teacher from Monday nights. I was just sitting there minding my own business when a girl came and sat down in the seat in front of me and unbeknownst to me my foot was in where the bottom of the seat and the back came together like in an old movie theater (only wooden seats) oh man! It hurt so bad, I thought my big toe was broken! but Praise God when I got up this morning it did not hurt as bad but it will have a bruise! Thank you Lord, that it was not broken!!!!! On the way home we stopped in Peosta and had Dairy Queen. I was so glad to finally get home, since I almost fell asleep in the car ;)

Monday
Late night early morning today was a good day. Pretty uneventful but that's ok, I did some grocery shopping after work, got some gifts wrapped and other tasks done, now I am ready for bed!

no title

today in child watch Chelsea a mom who came to the Y regularly when she was pregnant with her little girl Amayah (she has 3 older boys all very active!) when she had Amayah they stopped their membership or something not sure, anyways she has come a few times but Amayah does not like it in child watch. She has come in with her next older brother but he is fine to play and she is just not happy. They are regulars in Hy Vee and each time I see her she is really happy to see me, I kept telling Chelsea, you need to bring her and let her get used to it because once the kids figure out Mom is coming back they tend to settle down and have a good time, then they throw a fit because they don't want to leave! All that to say Chelsea brought her today and she was determined to not be happy well, it was my mission to get her acclimated today she cried for almost an hour but it wasn't crying because she was upset she just wanted her way. She stopped crying for a little bit and played for a time, I know I got through to her because she was talking to me about looking out the window and stuff but then we got busier with littler kids and I was afraid she was going to set another one off crying so I went to get Chelsea, but told her bring her again soon! She is almost there.

we didn't have any kids after noon and got to leave early today that was so nice! I had enough time to check the computer and do my dishes before Hy Vee :)

my shift at Hy Vee went quickly - we were super busy so glad to be home. I got the last of my ornaments on the tree, it's done for this year. Not sure if I will put up Mickey's clock shop even though I have had requests for it. Not tonight that's for sure.

Top Chef is back! I am excited hoping to get things done so I can go to bed directly after because tomorrow is my early long day. One more week with Kay :(

Wed Dec 2 full day

Worked at the Y in child watch - we had six kids learned some disturbing news :( got hugs from Amy, Brian, Andrew & Kay.

Met Pat ODonnell my new health care provider - she had Marie, Doug's mother as a patient when she was in the hospital with her heart attack. She knew Doug, (she was a painter for a while too)  she knew my former Dr Sheila Sawyer - we connected what can I say. She changed my medication - I liked her. I told Jesus on my way there I was a little afraid and I felt Him reassuring me it was going to be fine, this day had been written in His book before I was born. What peace!

I stopped by the library and picked up my book I had on hold :)

Stopped by Treasures and got a new pair of slacks and 3 new tops! Plus some other stuff, had a $5 off over $20 coupon spent $24 all together whoop!

went to get my new meds it wasn't ready, I told them I would come back so finally got home right before 4

I ate some dinner and watched the news about the new shootings in California :( then it was time to go after meds, pick the kids up and get to church.

Saw my sister for a second, then JoAnna and I sat in Relate` and talked while the kids were in youth group/kids program

Laura was out to dinner with her boss, so the boys came here. We played Yahtzee and I read them The Three Little Wolves and The Big Bad Pig - they didn't call him Big and Bad for nothing ya know

full day and I am beat but so thankful for Emmanuel God WITH us!

Tuesday Dec 1st

Bring on the Christmas music and the celebrating I am ready to celebrate the birth of our King Jesus!

Pretty quiet day at the Y for which I am  really thankful. It was a little hard walking into Kay's office today knowing she has only days left. I am so going to miss her!

Easton was entertaining as usual. It's neat to hear her young enthusiasm about life. She has a great opportunity in front of her I hope she makes the best choice.

Hy Vee was good today, nice to work with Tina always one to give a hand when you need it and sometimes when you don't. I enjoy her. Denise was back today too :)  My friend Sheila came through my line and she seemed a little blue, not her cheery self. I am praying for her, I asked her if she was ok and she said yes , , , and yet

Got a wonderful report from Robbyn today! Praise God for His grace and blessings! He is so wonderful

Free night you know what that means yup early bedtime! ha!

Dr appt tomorrow to meet a possibly new professional in my life- I got the paperwork all filled out. I go after work then hope to stop by Treasures we'll see

listening to the new Chris Tomlin Christmas Worship cd JoAnna loaned it's great!

I heard Joy to World by John Mark McMillen that Sheila posted to my FB wall - totally JMM it's great I would like to hear more

end of November 2015

Well here we are at the end of November

a lot has happened in this short month

next up is Christmas, and I hope to enjoy as many 'live events' as I can

followed by the new year 2016 amazing

it's been a good year - different but good because God is good

another Emmaus study is over only this one will be in two parts - Romans 1 - 11 this time ; in the spring it will be the remainder of Romans with Galatians I so enjoy these studies

I have been listening to Christmas music on my cd player can't seem to get past the wow Christmas disc 1 :) my new favorite song this year so far is 'You're Here" by Francesca Battistelli - JoAnna Hannah and I saw her live at the fair two summers ago. JoAnna and Hannah got to meet her that night.

I had a good day, and we were't real busy at the store but my day flew by! Andy was my manager today, Denise took a personal day. I like working with Andy, he is my favorite manager, and he tells us how we did on our drawer when he counts it at the end of our shift. Today I was plus .36. I had so many 1's in my drawer sheesh!

Rainy day with itchy eyes is no fun! But Praise God I can see and that it's not snow - at least not yet

happy December to  you!  

The Lord's Day - last Sunday of the Month

Well one more day of November! I gotta say it's been an interesting time. I have really been missing Doug a lot! Probably since Friday was the 7th Anniversary of when my entire way of life changed. I have been on an emotional roller coaster with so many memories flooding in like waves on a beach. Some big others small and I find myself reliving days gone by yet so excited for the Holy Christmas Season. I have been overwhelmed by God's goodness and by the age old story of Emmanuel's birth - God with us! He is so wonderful

I went to Maranatha at 8 and found out the service was at 8:30 today. It was ok I went downstairs to find the restroom and saw what the basement of the church is like. It's really neat plus they have a whole band/worship team set up down there I am assuming for the Youth with a live camera feed of the Sanctuary. I went back upstairs and sat and listened to the music team lead and each time I see them I am really impressed how it's not about them - it's all about Jesus.

The service was neat! A Y member Jerry who I talk to at the Y in the early mornings son, Justin is a Missionary/Artist in Turkey. He uses his art to share the gospel! They (his wife and two teen age kids) have a gallery in Turkey, Istanbul I believe and they host art shows, mentor and teach young artists all while sharing the love of Jesus in Art! It was unbelievable. Being an art lover I thoroughly enjoyed his power point presentation of his sketches , into drafts into works of art that the people of Turkey can identify with. :) such a blessing.

I booked out of there and headed to River to attend with Mantz's and Tim Bell and his two youngest boys Aiden and Morgan. Such a blessed service! I cried all through the first part of the service at the goodness and faithfulness of God and the overwhelming joy He places in the hearts of His children. Funny, turned out that was Pastor Steve's message to day, Joy . Wonderful time.

I was invited to Michael and JoAnna's for lunch with the Bell's and we had a great time talking and laughing and just enjoying each other's company. The boys ended up going to the shooting range and I came on home. I was going to get the rest of Christmas put up and when I moved the tree, the rice lights came unplugged and now they are toast. So time to throw those out. I have plenty of lights so that's not a problem and actually the new sets I put on the tree I like better :)

And that brings me to now and you know what's next  yup my bedtime goodnight to you all.

Remember that Jesus loves you this I know for the Bible tells me so.

whew a Saturday

I slept till almost 5 when I heard Alyssa coughing, so I knew she had come downstairs and she was sleeping on the couch. So I got up and went to the bathroom, took an aspirin cuz my head hurt, then went  back to bed and put ear plugs in.

I woke up a little after 7 and lay in bed thinking about the events of yesterday ugh! trying to go back to sleep but failed and about 7:45 I heard Alyssa get up and go back and get up and . . . well you get the idea. Finally I told her to take another allergy pill, she did and she was able to go back to sleep and slept till  10 when I finally woke her up. The other two girls were up and hungry and the cinnamon rolls we got last night were finished baking.

It was so nice to stay in my pjs all morning! I talked to Marilyn and made plans for our Christmas gathering for next Sat (before the Iowa game!) then Tricia texted and wanted me to call her so when I got off the phone with Mar I called Tricia and we bought our airline tickets to Arizona ! whoop!

I took the girls home, all but Hannah JoAnna picked her up earlier because she and Gabby were going to spend the day together. Anyways I took the girls home then came home and got ready to go to a movie with Tricia

We went to see Bridge of Spies - very good movie but it made me really sad - I will not go into all of that here. Excellent movie based on true events.

Now you know what time it is . . . yup time for bed early church tomorrow and I think I will be double dipping again :)

Finally Friday

Oh and what a day! This was one stressful day and I am so glad it's behind me!. At the Y I had a very rude member go off on me this morning to the point where I was shaking so badly I am not going to relive it - suffice it to say glad it's behind me!

Then at Hy Vee everything that could go wrong with a WIC check did, in my line! of course! I hate it when I am trying my best to get the customer checked out and the item they are trying to buy won't clear for whatever reason on my computer and they are standing there making remarks to each other about me or my ability to check . . . come on people show a little grace here!  Like I said, glad it's behind me

Iowa WON!!! 12 & 0!!!! Whoo Hoo!!!!!!

Now I am hearing 3 giggling girls doing who knows what upstairs as I sit here and try to blog :) I am glad they are here.

Planning to sleep in tomorrow all the way until I wake up!

I hear my bed calling my name!!!!!

Thanksgiving Day 2015

got up at 5am to be ready to be at the Y at 6:30 - and this girl was tired not getting to bed till almost midnight

worked with Ann Front Desk it was mostly good except for two people who did their best to ruin our day but it didn't!!!!

Had a nice chat with Eric

got my garbage and recycle bin out

got my little Christmas tree up and the lights plugged in that was enough for the day

Came home and ate leftovers and caught up on Face book and other computer things

JoAnna and Hannah came over and we watched Night at the Museum 3, ate popcorn and we watched a Christmas Movie I don't recall the name right now - it was cheesy super predictable and cute I think we all liked it

they went home, I finished up my dishes and tried to put my house back like it was before we had Thanksgiving here but oh well that can all wait too.

Heading to bed another early day tomorrow and work both jobs - looking forward to a free weekend!

Tuesday 11/24/15

It smells like Thanksgiving in here! I am trying to get the giblets cooked so I can finish the dressing and go to bed! But man, my house smells like Thanksgiving wonderful! I am so excited for the kids to all come tomorrow it's been way too long since we have all been together and tomorrow is the day!

It's been an emotional day and I am not sure why but one part is I was awake last night till after 2 and I remember being awake after that for a time before my alarm went off at 5:45 needless to say I did not get much sleep then working both jobs today, this gal is tired! I got into Facebook between jobs and there were all these posts from the kids from 'on this day' and it was pictures of Dou and the family and memories - i finally broke down and cried, something I have not done for a very long time and I decided to get out of that and get to Hy Vee so I could get my shift over. Otherwise it was going to be a yucky shift.

It wasn't I was on express and I have not worked there since last winter! I worked by Denise which was fun when she was there, she is the front end manager so she has lots of things to watch and keep moving but when we had a chance to chat that was fun.

I am enjoying being recognized by so many customers when I am in the store and after watching the video that Ash shared about Wellington Heights (we've reached new heights, Wellington!) I really do feel like it is a friendly place to be and nice to feel a part of a neighborhood. Sure it's scary at times, but more times than not it feels comfortable.

I had a nice phone conversation with Michael sharing with me some changes that are taking place in his and JoAnna's basketball lives. It was really nice to hear Michael again. He has been through so much loosing both of his Dad's in a year and with his recent neck problems, it was just nice to hear Michael coming back into his voice and heart.

I started watching Cake Boss, and for some reason that show really intrigues me. I think it's because they are creators of fun/ beautiful things. But that show is fun and crazy, I can't believe that big crazy family all working together. I don't go out of my way to watch but if I happen to catch it I like to watch.

And seeing a blurb for a new show Kate plus 8 on a Date! PLEASE! She must need the money  - sad

funny story about me - Friday I had made my list of things I wanted to get done and had it all timed out so I could have everything done, showered packed and ready when Michael got off work at 4. Things were going along just fine and I was hurrying so I could jump in the shower, so I was cleaning up some dead leaves off of my houseplants. Well, As I was snipping away I snipped the cords, not one, not two but all three of the cords for my blinds at the window next to the driveway! I knew it the minute I did it too and I was so angry then I just burst out laughing thinking of telling my family what I had done! Only me!

I texted my Mom a little while ago and told her I was so excited to be able to let the moon shine on the dressing tonight. When I was growing up she always told me that that is what made the dressing taste so good was the moon shone on it. It was nice to be able to share that bit of a memory with my folks with them so far away.

Ok, my eyes are turning into slits and I am afraid if I blink I may bleed to death (my eyes are so bloodshot!) sleep well everyone!

11/23/15

Another really good bible study tonight next week is the last in this session. I can't believe it's been 12 weeks!

Had a really good day at work, it went by super fast which is always a good thing

Turkey is in the fridge (since Thurs) thawing out I want to have it ready tomorrow night to put it in the oven on Wed

Cold tonight but such a beautiful sunny day

I had a great time with Marlys this evening

now I am ready for bed

Sleepy Sunday (oh these titles!)

It's not even 7pm and this gal is ready for bed! Actually I think I am going to head there soon so whoop te do! why not no reason to stay up. I can go to bed and read or listen to an odyssey and if I fall asleep well ok then. I didn't sleep much last night.Hannah spent the night and we stayed up till 12:30, I know on a church the next morning night plus she was pretty stuffed up and in the night I had to put earplugs in so I could sleep! And i was up pretty early to shower, and get ready for church so I certainly can go to bed early if I want

I found my Pine Lake Jacket today! I had thought I left it somewhere and I was so bummed that I didn't have it anymore but I looked in the office closet for some extra hangers and voile~ there it was hanging there all nice and just waiting for me to discover it.

The last time I mowed I was sure I had left my 'burnin hot log mover" (I don't know what you call it and that seems like a good name), anyways I thought I had left it in the fire pit. I was sure someone had come into my yard when I was gone and stolen it right out of my fire pit! I was not happy one bit! How can someone just come into someone's yard and take things that obviously belong to someone else? I was thinking I would have to find another B. H. L. M. to take it's place and each time I thought of it i would start a slow burn. Finally I got tired of this and I asked God to forgive my bad feelings and just take all of this from me. Well last Friday I was out filling the bird feeders and getting things wrapped up for the snow to come and I went down in back and remembered putting the B. H. L. M.  in the bottom of the wheel barrow! Eureka I cried well, not really but it sounds better to me on this crazy tired night. Anywho,  I now have my burning hot log mover AND my jacket and all is right with the world.

This morning whilst I was getting ready for church and Hannah was eating breakfast I turned on my Kindle to listen to You Are A Good Good God and had it on repeat. We get to church and guess what song we sang second Yup! It was wonderful! I had never heard the song before last week at Veritas and now this morning at Maranatha. I love stuff like that

Ok heading off to bed it's 7: pm officially bedtime!

Sunny Saturday after SNOW

My alarm was set for 6:30am just in case the Jr Warriors were heading for Mason City. JoAnnie texted about 6:50 saying they had cancelled coaches weren't too thrilled about not playing but the parents didn't want to travel with the weather iffy so it was a no go weekend.

I got up to find SNOW!!!!! And lots of it. In a way I was glad we weren't going because I knew I had to get dug out so after my quiet time I got dressed and headed outside. It was warmer than I had expected but the snow was wet and heavy but it shoveled pretty easily. One thing about one car in the drive is I have a longer driveway now so more to shovel. It took me about an hour I think the dumb guys that scrup out Kum and Go always make a mess for me to clean up between where our sidewalks meet and they half way cleared part of my drive but made more work for me! what the ?????? grrrrrrr I was not happy with them.

I filled the bird feeders too and made sure the rabbits had some seeds on the ground.

I came in the house to cool down when I was done and waited for the Iowa game. JoAnna texted to see if I got the game on my cable that they might come watch but then maybe Michael would be more comfortable tat home.  It was on ESPN2 and they had a lady caller - not my cup of tea, so I got Doug's old stereo from the basement and turned on WMT to hear the radio guys. The tv was a little slower than the radio feed so I would hear what happened then see it. I got a text from JoAnna partway through the first half saying she and Hannah might come over later. Then she asked if I wanted to eome and hang out at their house. So I went over and had brunch and watched the second half. Their roku feed keep going out so we missed two of our touchdowns but we cheered anyway! We had a really good time. Chapman was being really funny climbing all over me and being all over the place. He had seen Hannah and I with our Pink Bear Fight and he wanted in on it too. He was such a goof and couldn't find his ball, he was glad Gramma came over.

When the game was over we went out to the Cotton Gallery - a shop in Marion that sells athletic clothing discounted. I got two shirts and a pair of yoga type pants go me! There was tons to look at and very reasonably priced.

Heading off to bed I am bushed and my back is a tad sore from shoveling and sitting around all day.

Oh yeah, I dreamed I got a puppy a little light brown and white fluff ball who I called sugar, it looked like a cookie hence the name sugar cookie ha! I wonder what that was all about?

No Work Friday :)

I was supposed to have an appointment today that got re scheduled so I had a day off! I slept till 7:30 got up and had my quiet time then I started in on my cleaning list. I have gotten so much done it's great. The only reason I am in my computer now is I thought I should probably stop and eat a sandwich then finish the chores, shower and pack for overnight, maybe two depending on the weather.

I got the turkey yesterday after work and he is sitting in the fridge to thaw out for Wed!!!! I am so excited for everyone to be together it's been since 4th of July! And I am so ready for food and family time maybe not in that order then again . . .

I just got a call from Ash telling me she got a new job! She starts on the 30th of Nov. I am just giddy for her to start something new and make a little more money. Regular days Friday till 2 and no weekends! And the gal who interviewed her worked at Bonanza for several years. I remember Kit and she remembered Doug and I :) so cool I am so excited for Ash.

I am also excited to have my house under a little better control, now if I can just figure out the timer for the bird light I will be just fine!

Ok time to get back to it and get this chore list all the way finished!!!!!

Thursday before a 3 day weekend!!!!!

Kim and I had a pretty easy day today. Not a ton of crying whew! Rehyna wanted to be held but she is a snuggle bunny so that was good. Max kept pretending he was crying but he played most of the time. At one point I was talking to one of the other kids and I said Yay! and Max started clapping hee hee then I was taking to a mom and I was holding my hand in a certain way and Kim said look at Max he is holding his hands just like yours! ha it was great. Then Josiah came and we have not seen him for about a year and a half I couldn't get over how tall he was! Wow

Kay told us to day Dec 11 will be her last day at the Y. She had told Amy and me yesterday that the call she had gotten while we were in our 'meeting' was Frontier offering her the job she had interviewed for. When she said you are not going to be happy to Amy I thought Amy was going to cry. Her eyes teard up and got really red, I felt so bad for Amy but I told Kay even though I did not like her leaving, congratulations on your new job! She was happy I said that to her. She has not been happy at the Y for quite a long time and she is way too young (with a young daughter) to be so stressed out over her job. She has worked many shifts covering for people it's just too much. Like I said, I don't like it and I will miss her terribly but it will be a good change for her. So we will just have to see what this new chapter is like.

I got a text from Brian a bit ago, he was saying Robbyn wan't feeling too well tonight but her blood pressure was pretty good, he was thinking she is dehydrated. She told me this morning she was feeling a little crampy but not too bad and she went to work on not much sleep yesterday :( poor girl

Hy Vee today was my 3 hour shift day and it went by really fast which was good. I had one lady who was in a huge hurry and was complaining about putting all of her stuff on the belt to check out only to hear the person on that register (the one behind me) say they could not log on so she had to put all of her stuff back in her cart and come to my line and then I took so long helping another customer and she was gonna be late picking (somebody) up! She had two little children with her and her little girl just kept smiling at me and was so cute! So I just said, yeah that computer has been acting up all day and just checked her out and didn't listen to her complaining to me about being in a hurry- after all If you are in such a hurry don't get all these groceries and try to get out of the store quick when there is always a lot of people at the store right after school and work - but I didn't say anything . . .I just got her checked out AND bagged up as quickly as I could. Sheesh!

Another lady said to me when I was bagging her stuff, if you are humming you must be having a pretty good day :) I told her I was and I try to everyday because I believe it's a choice. This is what I was humming:


Oh I've heard a thousand stories of what they think You're like
but I've heard the tender whisper of love in the dead night
and You tell me that You're pleased and that I am never alone

You're a good good Father
it's who You are
it's who You are
it's who You are

And I am loved by You
it's who I am
it's who I am
it's who I am

O and I've seen many searching for answers far and wide
but I know we're all searching for answers only You provide
cause You know just what we need before we say a word

You're a good good Father
it's who You are
it's who You are
it's who You are

And I am loved by You
it's who I am
it's who I am
it's who I am

Because You are perfect in all of Your ways
You are perfect in all of Your ways
You are perfect in all of Your ways to us

O it's love so undeniable I, I can hardly speak
peace so unexplainable I, I can hardly think
and You call me deeper still
that You call me deeper still
that You call me deeper still
into love, love, love!

You're a good good Father
it's who You are
it's who You are
it's who You are

And I am loved by You
it's who I am
it's who I am
it's who I am

Housefires 2

I heard it for the first time on Sunday at Veritas Church and I loved it so I downloaded it on my Kindle and put it on repeat so it's burning into my heart and brain.

I am ready for bed and I don't have to get up in the morning till I feel like it! I want to do some cleaning and prep for Thanksgiving and then packing for Mason City with Jr Warriors for a tourney!!!! Whoop!

strange day

Amy kept saying at work today something was brewing

*Jack had a poopy diaper
*Allie had to go potty really bad but we got her there in time
*Anna came and cried the whole time,  we had to get her mom
*Charlie came after a long absence and was pretty good except Anna set him off and he cried a lot but once I took him and let him look out the window he was fine then his mom came
*Amy was waiting for a call from her daughter's principal
the sky was clear and sunny then it got really dark
*Kay was in for a meeting and told us of the events that had transpired since the weekend
*Kay also told us that Julie is now working at Hy Vee on the West side as the one who does the shopping for the online shoppers and Cindy is now working at a Care Facility doing the laundry and they both really like their jobs.
*I found out Ash didn't get the job at Hibu but after hearing about her 2nd interview I was glad she didn't
*I went to Robbyn's appointment - nice to chat with her and Brian strange weird setting however
*Isaac was sick so he didn't go to Wed Night Matt's boys were spending the evening with Aunt Maria for her birthday so they didn't go either so I had a free night!
*Strange goings on in the world and in my world
I guess Amy was right

But I am so very thankful for this verse: Psalm 139:16 . . . all the days ordained for me were written in Your book before one of them came to be.

free night, rainy cool day

This is not going to be long because I want to go to bed.

Rainy day! I got to the Y right about 7:25 and of course it was really raining and there were puddles everywhere but I didn't melt, I am the salt of the earth as my Mom always says. However my shoes were wet at work hissboo, but I got a funky towel and put my umbrella on it and hung my jacket over it - it was upside down the umbrella not my jacket - so they could both dry out whilst I was at work.

Had a nice chat with Easton, she is from South Africa and is very chatty which is nice, she also knows her job so that's a good thing too! We had a pretty easy morning. Kay worked for Bryan for a bit so I left when it was 11.

I came home to find Andrew here listening to desert bus and doing laundry. I asked him to bring in the 2 50lb bags of bird food from my car which he did ! whoo hoo!  I ate lunch and changed into dry socks and dry shoes that was nice.

My shift at Hy Vee what pretty uneventful except for a lady who had a certificate for Hy Vee milk - who went off on me about she can't drink milk can I substitute Almond milk for the regular milk. So I called Andy my manager over and he handled the whole situation for me while she yelled at him and loudly complained about the free milk. I wanted to ask her if you can't drink the milk why did you take the certificate?

When I got home from Hy Vee Andrew was just finishing up his laundry and after he left I got some dinner and watched McFarland USA - Watch it if you get a chance! Good movie based on true events! Good movie

Time for bed and Adventures in Odyssey :)

It's chilly and rainy and all I want to do is . . .

I got home from work and there was a message on my machine that I needed to call my dentist - extraction scheduled and appt confirmed for Friday had to be changed Dr is not going to be there! Bad news I had to schedule this appt about 3 weeks out to get the time off from work! The good news is I have a day off on Friday! So I will go through this again next month

I had a huge cloud settle on me before lunch today. I didn't feel great and my head hurt but I pushed through and took a couple of advil at lunch. I got my free meal today after work :) nice to have a hot meal that I didn't have to make!

Bible study tonight, I always look so forward to Monday's study. Book of Romans and I feel like I am really learning a lot. Half of the Book now the other half during the spring session plus the book of Galatians.

I am gonna go lay down and watch the news and then get ready to go to the study.

What a beautiful Lord's Day

I was so ramped up last night after the Iowa Minnesota Football game I had a hard time settling down to go to sleep but finally I did and I slept great.

Up Early to have my quiet time and get ready for the 8:00 service at Maranatha. Dale and Marlys were going then and Jerry and Anita were going to visit. It was so great to see them and to hear Pastor Aaron's sermon. Wonderful message really great worship time. I was blessed and knew God was so present for me to lay down my burdens, and my pains and any physical needs I might have all at the foot of the cross. Just what He knew I needed today!

I did not stay for Sunday School because I didn't want to leave the class early and be rude so I skipped. I drove to Hardee's for a bacon and egg biscuit before heading downtown for the 10:30 service at Veritas - Yup today I double dipped and it was GREAT! Another really good message and good worship time. I saw a young man named Michael who works in produce at my Hy Vee and talked with him for a second. He came from Veritas in Iowa City - this one is a church plant. I was sure blessed to see him! Saw a few familiar faces there. but was really blessed to be with Matt, Sheila and Jillian, Isaac went to Veritas Kids and joined us when we were heading out.

I ran to Walmart to get some bird food and other things I needed and got to see Nicole, finally she usually is not working when I am there but had a hunch she would be there today and sure enough she was. It was so great to see her. She is excited for Thanksgiving for us all to be together she is planning on bringing our dessert appetizer Puppy Chow! Then as I was shopping I heard her name called over the intercom to come to a certain register to cover for a 15 minute break so when I was ready I looked for that number and she checked me out! So I got to see her twice! She said Navya is walking around things and talking quite a few words. She said Sydney never leaves her alone and plays with her constantly and carries her around! What a good big sister she is to her baby sister!

I stopped and got a couple of 50 lb bags of bird seed, that reminds me I need to get them out of my trunk! ha! It was way cheaper than it usually is so I got two.

I had just gotten home and sat down at my computer and while  I looking at Facebook Malinda Preston had put a pic of a black truck loaded with a bunch of wood from a tree.It looked to me like Michael's truck to me so I texted JoAnna and asked her about it. She said yes indeed it was Michael's truck they were cleaning up a huge branch from the neighbors that had come down on their porch during last week's storm and asked if I wanted to come help them clean it up. Sure! why not so I grabbed a sandwich and some milk, my hat gloves and outside shoes I mow in and went to help them clean up the branch. It was HUGE! We got everything cleaned up and loaded into the truck bed and into a little trailer to take out to the cabin and I told Michael I would go help him unload it out there, the girls had basketball practice. It was nice to have some time with Michael and I figured they have helped me out so many times it was a little way I could help them out. Hannah and I had a rousing game of bearball, it's where you take a little pink stuffed bear and throw it at the other person whilst running and dodging and laughing and telling Chapman no! It was great fun only I am the one with the last laugh! ha!

I got home and showered , looked at stuff on Facebook and dinked around on the computer thought I would blog for today and think I will go to bed early . Why not? Early day again tomorrow and a  long day with my 8 hour shift at Hy Vee then a two hour Bible Study and early day on Tuesday!

Before you go to sleep tonight thank God for taking you through this extraordinary day! Can you believe this weather?

Sunny Saturday

I ended up sleeping for 8 hours! And boy did I need that! I got up and took a shower, had my quiet time and then got ready for Hannah's game. I texted Sheila that I could come get Jillian if she was ready but didn't hear back from her. Last night I had asked her if she could bring her to Regis because I was so tired I couldn't even think about leaving early to go pick her up :( but I ended up having enough time. She finally texted when I was almost to Regis saying they  had just gotten up, they were up till after 2 with April and her girls and grandson. I am so glad they have had this time together.

Two wins one loss today, the girls should never have lost that second game but it is what it is and they did.

Jillian and I went to lunch at Mikey's she had a burger and fries and I had eggs, bacon and pancakes. It was nice to have just the two of us and have a chance to catch up.

I got a text from JoAnna asking where I was Hannah wanted to come over so we headed home and when we pulled in the drive they pulled in right behind us. So the girls have been here this afternoon. Jillian kept saying she was so tired. Hannah was going to play the Wii first (after their trip to Kum and Go of course!) then Jillian was going to take her turn (I think) Jillian layed down on the couch to watch and she was all huddled so I got the brown magic nap blanket and covered her up and sure enough she went to sleep!

Iowa game on tonight at 7 so I will watch that but want to watch the news at 5 to see what's new today.

I was able to talk to my folks for a while today, that was nice. So good to hear their voices!

My plan was to clean my house today but the girl came. . . got my bathroom cleaned and my dishes done! Yay me!

Friday

I can't believe how tired I am tonight, do you think maybe sitting around all evening has done that?

Such a beautiful day but cold! And it's supposed to be really cold tonight. I am so thankful for my warm house and my comfy bed.

Pretty nondescript day, same with the evening except for the horrible terrorist attacks in Paris my oh my makes my heart ache for the families of those involved

I need to go turn off my brain and close my eyes

easy day

I woke up at 3:55am and had a terrible time getting back to sleep, so this is going to be short, I am heading to bed early!!!!

It's been so windy it's crazy the temps are really not so bad but that wind!

It was a pretty easy day in child watch only a couple of times did Kim or I have to really step in and take toys away or have to deal with a 3/4 year old being pretty bossy and having to set them straight. That is why I have the name tag on and you don't, so there! ha

Hy Vee really flew by it's only 3 hours on Thursday but I was busy the whole time and it went fast.

Got to go and watch Alyssa's orchestra concert. They did really good! She told me she was pretty nervous that's why she didn't look up awwwww. Val and Nathan were there with Ava Stuff. It was nice to see them and a pretty quick concert. I remembered to take my camera and get some pictures. Yay me

One more day then the weekend hooray!

wet and wild wed

how crazy that we heard the tornado sirens tonight! It's November!!! We didn't hear the sirens at all this summer and now it's Nov and we have a tornado warning

I opened my Facebook ' on the day ' this morning and saw a picture from Smith's wedding rehearsal of my kids all singing Karaoke and I just lost it. Each picture of their wedding and rehearsal just brought up so many emotions today and feeling the pain of losing Doug before their wedding . . . I was on the cusp all the way to work. When I pulled  up Sheila was there whew! so I was able to talk with her and tell her about my crazy dream of me yelling (and waking myself up!) at Brittany because she was not taking care of little Andrew - these crazy dreams have got to stop!!!!!

Amy and I had a good shift in child watch the kids were pretty good only Rheyna, Jacob's little sister was not having it today and cried for the first time in our time of watching her. She even cried when Mike, her dad came to get her. It was so unlike her and I felt really bad. Poor girl the other kids were just kids. Tomorrow I will get Kim (as my co-hort) and we have lots to catch up on. So it will be a good day. Then a 3 hour shift at Hy Vee then Alyssa has an orchestra concert hooray!

JoAnna picked up Jillian and Isaac tonight for church and I picked up Colton and Asa. Asa got in the car and asked me if i had any food he was starving. That poor kid is always starving. We did have a good laugh about his apple disappearing when he went to the bathroom however. The boys said they had a good time at church, when I went to get the boys they were watching the 10 hour version of  "It's Raining Taco's" I am sure if you google it  . . .

While the kids were in church JoAnna, Tricia and I went to Walmart. It was fun chatting and looking there to pass the time. JoAnna and I went to Lowe's (Tricia went on home) then we went to Auto Zone then to Hy Vee looking for an ice scraper with a metal blade. I think she found one on Amazon, we did our best to try and find one. When we went to Lowe's I told JoAnna how strange it is for me to go to places that Doug and I used to go to all the time and now I never go there.  Lowe's is one Sam's is another (she had said if she had a Sam's card we could go there and look at the overpriced items) strange the things that go through your mind.

Now I am ready for bed, I feel like that is a recurring theme in my blog ha!

let's see . . .

Tuesday evening, almost bedtime . . . I have not been sleeping real well, strange and weird dreams along with nightmares that I don't let myself get into which means I wake myself up and then try to go back to sleep without thinking about the nightmare grrrrrr can't I just sleep and not dream or have good dreams????  The latest dream had me with several elephants that I was training to do tricks like at the circus

Work was good today but boy was I glad to be off work. I wanted to go for a walk on this last lovely day but then I thought I should go get my nails done. I broke another sometime at work and figured why not just go get them done. I was the only customer getting a pedi and mani so it was nice and relaxing only they did me right away because I was the only one so I didn't get a lot of time to sit in the chair. Oh well now they are done again and look so much better. I was bummed because they didn't have my favorite color changing kind but oh well what's a girl to do?

I came home and had some dinner and got a text from Andrew asking if I could keep Tyler overnight, so I have a house guest. He is getting so big and he has the cutest little goatee on his chin. He is 6 months old and very kitten still. I also found out that Brittany is doing part time Nanny work watching Bailey, her mom worked with me at the Y for a time in child watch! Talk about a small world!!!!

I got a couple of loads of laundry done and the second load is in the dryer gee aren't you glad I told you that little tidbit?

I think I need to go to bed!!!!

Monday Nov 9

City on A Hill

Casting Crowns

Did you hear of the city on a hill, 

said one old man to the other

It once shined bright 

and it would be shining still

but they all started turning on each other

You see, the poets thought the dancers were shallow

And the soldiers thought the poets were weak

And the elders saw the young ones as foolish

And the rich man never heard the poor man speak

And one by one they ran away

with their made up minds to leave it all behind

And the light began to fade in the city on a hill

the city on the hill

Each one thought that they knew better

But they were different by design

instead of standing strong together 

they let their differences divide

And one by one they ran away

with their made up minds to leave it all behind

And the light began to fade in the city on a hill

the city on the hill

And the world is searching still . . .

But it was the rhythm of the dancers

that gave the poets life

it was the spirit of the poets 

that gave the soldiers strength to fight

it was the fire of the young ones

it was the wisdom of the old

it was the story of the poor man

that needed to be told

It is the rhythem of the dancers

that gives the poets life

It is the spirit of the poets 

that gives the soldiers strength to fight

it is the fire of the young ones 

it is the wisdom of the old

it is the story of the poor man

that's needing to be told

One by one will we run away

with our made up minds to leave it all behind

as the light begins to fade 

in the city on the hill

One by one will we run away

with our made up minds to leave it all behind

as the light begins to fade 

in the city on the hill

The city on the hill

Come home . . .

to the city on the hill 

And the Father's calling still . . .

Come home . . .

a non Sunday - Sunday post

Up and at the kitchen table with my coffee at 5:30 am time to pray and spend time in God's Word before my day began. Typical early day when I have an early day

I had to be at Mantz's by 6:50 so we could head to Ia City for the game/games depending on the outcome of the first game.

First game was good, they won by 20 played a team not so well coached so we were all happy about that one.

Between games I walked around the field house whilst the girls and coaches rested. I did not keep track of the laps but I was cold when I started and by the time I was almost finished I was so hot I went outside and walked to cool down. What a beautiful fall day!!

Game 2 was a bloodbath without the blood. The other team went up by 10 points and they were physical!!!!! I felt bad for our girls getting beat up by them but we came back within 2 points at the half. Second half  they finally were getting called for the fouls but none of our free throws were dropping neither were our baskets and they could not miss. There was some differences with the score book and the scoreboard and the refs said the scoreboard was right . . . really? since when does the scoreboard outweigh the official score book? grrrr then the assistant coach from the other team was running the clock (why????) and the scoreboard and gave a girl two points for 1 free throw TWICE but the scoreboard is right? It was not a fun game we ended up losing and the girls are pretty banged up. I felt bad for Hannah she did not talk most of the way home, we stopped to eat and was better a little,  but she is one sore girl tonight.

Back to work tomorrow . . . I need a day of rest from the weekend! Oh well there will be lots of days when I wish I had something to do so I am going to enjoy this while it's here.

Heading off to bed  - - - see you when the birds fly!

Saturday

I was up early to head to Ia City with the Mantz crew and Arrie for basketball their first game was at 9 but we needed to be there by 8:45. The first game was crazy! We were up by 10 or so and the other team came back and at the end of regulation hit a shot at the buzzer which put them ahead by 1 ugh until our score keeper went to the ref's and said that was not a 3 pointer it was only a 2 so after conferring for a bit sure enough the game was tied so that meant overtime! The girls ended up winning  but man I was trembling so bad and so shook up I told JoAnna and Hannah both no more close games but did they listen????? Nooooooo

The girls were not to play again till 4:40 ( what kind of maniac does that to any team????) anyway we drove to Steak and Shake and had lunch, on Michael (Thank you, Michael for springing for lunch!) then we drove back to Cedar Rapids dropped Arrie at her house and went to Mantz's to wait for the second game. We all layed around I finished my book and napped for a bit but pretty soon it was time to head back down there.

We had time between before the game so I walked around the field house inside, just to get some walking in while the coaches talked to their team. The girls ended up losing the second game and were pretty beat up by the 'physical' play of the other team. Not a fun game :( Now they play at 8am sheesh, so this old gal is heading to bed!

Friday Nov 6

Today Alyssa turns 12! I can hardly believe it!

Got to work at the Y a little before 7 it was a pretty uneventful morning, other than the phones not letting us transfer calls that wasn't much fun grrrrrr

Sheila came to work and we spent a few minutes catching up then I headed home to grab a quick sandwich and change for Hy Vee

When I went in to work my HR Roxanne called me into her office and asked if I could work any days from 10 to 2 doing check out for the pharmacy. Nope, because I am at the Y she was just checking she said she wanted someone in there that could be trusted and had a good work record ( nice!) then she asked me if Chad had talked to me, (Chad is our 2nd Store Manager) no I told her and she said go punch in then come back in here. Great what is all this about?

After I got my stuff in my locker and got punched in I went back in her office and she told me to have a seat . . . she said it was time for my yearly review oh ok! On all the things they rate on I got mostly above expectations :) that was nice to hear then she told me she was, well actually it was Aron our Store Manager was giving me a 75 cent  raise, she just got to tell me! Wow that was huge! I was singing all afternoon.

It was a good afternoon, I had a couple of laughs with customers, got to do 'go backs' and saw Sherman Hopkins he was a friend of Matt's back in school days. He told me after I told him who I was that he was having a really bad day and he was really angry but seeing me helped lift that for a minute :) I think I will add Sherman to my prayer list :)

Just finished listening to the Kennedy Wash Football semi-final game, Kennedy won 21 - 7 Wash just could not get it together. Kennedy is now 12 & 0 Kim and Amy will both be really happy and I am happy for them but it would have been nice if Wash could have pulled it out!

Heading to ded to read A Most Unsuitable Match by Stephanie Grace Whitson, just when I think I have the story figured out she puts in a new twist! I love reading her!

Thank you precious Jesus for the blessings of today because I know they are gifts from Your hand!

random

rainy Thursday night

Ashleigh came for dinner and several rounds of skip bo

new baby in child watch, Bennett he is just adorable

work was super busy but it made the 3 hour shift fly by

had so much fun at the park with Jillian, Isaac and Hannah yesterday! beautiful day and so blessed by kids who have a sense of adventure. So happy I can make them laugh with my 'slipping'

prayer at Maranatha last night - makes me see how far I have come but oh so far to go!

season finale of project runway #13 is on right now

Alyssa turns 12 tomorrow how can that be possible

strange not to have lunch with my folks on Wed - they are now back in Arizona getting ready for their church sale which used to be at the end of January

strange dreams last night and it felt like I slept a really long time - someone asked me 'what anniversary did you come from' my answer 'Christmas Day' then I woke up - that did it I just got  up knowing I would not go back to sleep

Friday already tomorrow! And first week of November is quickly coming to an end wow!

ready for bed now

Already There

From where I'm standing

Lord, it's so hard for me to see where this is going 

and where You're leading me

I wish I knew how 

all my fears and all my questions are gonna play out

in a world I can't control

When I'm lost in the mystery 

to You my future is a memory

'cause You're already there, already there

standing at the end of my life 

waiting on the other side

and You're already there, You're already there

From where You're standing

Lord, You see the grand design that You imagined

when You breathed me into life

and all the chaos comes together in Your hand

like a masterpiece

of Your picture perfect plan 

When I'm lost in the mystery 

to You my future is a memory

'cause You're already there, already there

standing at the end of my life

waiting on the other side

You're already there, You're already there

One day I'll stand before You

and look back on the life I've lived 

I can't wait to enjoy the view 

and see how all the pieces fit

One day I'll stand before You 

and look back on the life I've lived

'cause You're already there, You're already there

When I'm  lost in the mystery 

to You my future is a memory

'cause You're already there, You're already there

standing at the end of my life

waiting on the other side

You're already there, You're already there

You're already there

Casting Crowns

introducing . . .

Sheila posted the following:

When was the last time you thought about how you would introduce yourself . . . (actually recently I have introduced myself to several new coworkers and I am not sure I would share all of this but it's a fun thing to blog)

by the numbers
I am 63 some days I feel way younger other days I feel way older! Then some days I feel like I am just what I am.
I was married to Doug for a couple weeks shy of 36 years and what a ride that was. I have been a widow for 6 1/2 years now and I am pretty ok with it. I miss him all the time and I like to think he would be very proud of the woman I have become on my own.
I am the mother of six wonderful kids 2 boys and 4 girls.
Grandmother to 14 grandkids, 10 girls and 4 boys  and  8 great grand kids 4 girls and 4 boys all truly amazing, each one unique and truly gifts from God.
I have one love bird Salmon, that was his name when I got him. We have a funny nightly routine. When I cover him at night I say 'goodnight' and he does a funny little noise back, so I will repeat 'goodnight' and he will repeat the same noise, this would go on for a long time I suppose only I do it a couple of time and let it drop.
I also have one silver angel fish and one large plecostomus in a 55 gal aquarium and 4 little guppies who are old and just hanging around.
I am the 2nd child of 4 the oldest girl I have 2 brothers one older, one younger obviously and 1 sister.

I currently work part time at 2 jobs. At the YMCA downtown and at the First Ave Hy Vee and I like both of my jobs very much, not the job so much but the people I work with and the people who are members, children or customers.

I am in the process of finding a new church home. It's been kind of nice seeing what is out there after being in the same place for over 25 years and tending to think that is what church life is. Interesting journey for sure.

and that's enough for this round :) I am invited to Stevens' for dinner then a orchestra concert so I gotta go!!!!!

my day

my day started at 4:50 am for some reason I have been waking up most days at this time, not sure why. I remember thinking now if I go back to sleep I have this much time, no I only have this much because the alarm is set for . . . just got back to sleep and get up when the alarm goes off!

anyways, I got up at took a shower, fed the bird and the fish, poured my coffee and sat down for my quiet time.When I was finished I got ready to go to Hy Vee for my 8 hour shift which I have on Mondays when I am scheduled from 8 - 4 that is. We have a new gal starting at Hy Vee names Ieisha, she was to bag for me and while she was standing there I was telling her what to do if this certain thing happens, and just talked her through many different scenarios. I kept telling her its repetitious and you will catch on and if you have a question don't be afraid to ask someone. It will all make sense in time and you will be just fine. She's a young mom with two boys one 2 who is autistic and one a month old! Wow busy Momma!

Came home from work and Andrew was here doing laundry, he had told me the other day he was planning to come and do laundry today. I talked with him for a bit then told him I wanted to take a walk since it was still light and such a beautiful day, so I got ready and headed out. I didn't walk as long as I usually do because I wanted to be home before dark. without DLST it get dark fairly early!

Went to Bible Study at New Covenant and now I am home from there and ready for bed. My introduction will have to wait for another time when I have more time. Early day tomorrow, this gal need to get to bed!

PS     I think it's very interesting that I have been hearing 'Already There' by Casting Crowns a lot recently (I don't listen to the radio much but when I do I hear it a lot! then on my on this day on FB that was the song I shared a line from 2 year ago. very interesting indeed

November 1, 2015

November the month to blog . . .

this is going to be brief because I am tired and I want to read

slept in today! much needed I loved waking up to sunshine this morning after the past few days of clouds

went to Sunday School and  Church to the later service by myself because I wanted to sleep in. Pastor Aaron's sermon was a really good one, again. Using John 17 - Jesus' prayer he built the message of taking our prayers to the next level on these two words 'so that'. When Jesus prayed He was asking these things 'so that' God's ultimate will would be done. There is a lot more to the message than that but I am way too tired to go into it all tonight. A quote Pastor shared - general requests get general answers, specific requests get specific answers. It really spoke to my heart.

Stopped by Wendy's on the way home and got some chili :)

Went on a walk with my lovely sister around Cedar Lake - such a beautiful day!

Came home and layed on the couch wanted to nap but didn't I ended up watching Paul Blart 2 oh man what a dumb movie!

Now I am ready for bed, I hope to blog again tomorrow . . .  we'll see