I don't know if I can do this story justice here but I just have to try!
Sunday afternoon, as I lay down for my usual nap, I decided to phone my girlfriend because she and her family had taken off pretty quickly after church that morning and I didn't get to talk to her. I wanted to make sure everything was alright. Well, they just had a lot to do that afternoon and they needed to go to the grocery story as she had to cook that evening for their family reunion the next day, Memorial Day. I asked her if her kids and granchildren were all going and she said yes, though they put up a fuss about it. She told them that it is important that they go because once their aunt and uncle is gone (the couple who sponsors it and has it at their home), the family reunions will probably go by the way.
Anywayyyyy.....she proceeded to kind of unload on me about this family reunion and how she has a difficult time with it, too. It went something like this:
"Soooo....we get there and there must be 120-140 people there. We don't know probably 90 of these people, 5 are suspected child molesters, 5 are convicted felons, 12 are morbidly obese.....which leads me to me the part where the obese people crowd their way up to the food tables ahead of the children and elderly people and by the time my dear daughter-in-law, who probably weighs 90lbs. soaking wet, gets up to the table, the good food is gone. Everyone brings their own tent or canopy and it ends up looking like the children of Israel camped out around the tabernacle in the wilderness. The families and their children go to their own canopy/tent, so what is the point of getting together, since we stick to our own families anyway? Then the grown-ups have a chinese auction where most everyone brings junk to put in while I try to bring nice things and everyone starts fighting over the stuff I've brought and I'm tired and hot and feeling sweaty and sticky from the heat and humidity and having my granchildren, whom I love more than life itself, crawl all over me.....YES, IT IS IMPORTANT THAT WE GO....I tell my children....."
Well, I am in the bedroom with the door closed, while Ed is in the den when she is telling me this and I am dying laughing and we are screaming and saying stuff to eachother. (as only girlfriends can do! ;-) ) Ed comes in and opens the door and asks, "WHO are you talking TO??????" So I told him and he just shook his head and shut the door. He understood then. It was just soooooo hilarious hearing her tell it in her own inimitable way! Well, I talked to her this morning and they survived another reunion, thank the Lord! LOL So until next year........
Tuesday, May 29, 2007
You call THAT a parade???????
Oh my word! Ed and I decided to take in the annual Memorial Day Parade at the New Straitsville Moonshine Festival yesterday. I had not been to the parade for years but remembered it as being just awesome in years past. Bands and floats and horses! It was one of the best parades around. What happened? I mean, all it consisted of was several queens from different festivals in Ohio. (They have festivals for EVERYTHING!!! *groan*) The firetrucks and emergency vehicles from all of the area townships. I was praying there weren't any fires or emergencies anywhere. And a small local high school band. Nowwwwww......I realize that this band was small. I understand that they are from a rural, somewhat financially depressed area, BUT that is no excuse for the way they were attired!!! COME ON!!! They were all wearing navy blue shorts of some kind and white t-shirts, shirts or some kind of white top. The footwear must have been of their choosing. I mean, several of these kids were wearing flip-flops, for heaven's sake!!!!!!!!!! I just could not believe they dressed so sloppily. Where has the pride in personal appearance gone? A professional appearance would certainly have added much to what they lacked in musical ability. They played fairly well, but that wouldn't have been as noticeable, I believe, had they presented themselves in a more appropriate manner. I may have to write a letter to the band director. I won't be mean but I will stress the importance of dress and appearance. It DOES matter.
Oh, and Ed's comment for the day, after seeing this band and watching the parade was: "I took a shower for this?" *grin* Oh, it wasn't that bad....I guess......and we DID get to meet Taylor! *smile*
Oh, and Ed's comment for the day, after seeing this band and watching the parade was: "I took a shower for this?" *grin* Oh, it wasn't that bad....I guess......and we DID get to meet Taylor! *smile*
The prodigal
Ed's oldest son, my stepson...Eddie....is clean. Let me explain a little. He came to live with us when he was sixteen. We had only been married for 4 months, lived in a tiny furnished apartment and were expecting our first baby in 7 months. It was a very trying time. Eddie's mother had kicked him out of her house and dumped him on our doorstep. He was a handful. A delinquent druggy. And yet, deep inside, a good kid. The only place we had for him to sleep was on the sofa. And so it went. Our privacy was gone. It was difficult.
Through the years, Eddie has had very short-lived times of being clean. He has entered this program and that program, but never sticking with it. In jail. On probation. Eluding the police. In prison. But something happened this time. He is 38. It was either do this program to completion or spend 30 months in prison without parole. He has three children by three different women. He lost contact with them through the years because of non-support and his lifestyle of drugs.
Two weeks ago, we received a phone call from him. He had just completed...COMPLETED....a nine-month stint in a prison rehab/bootcamp. And he is clean. And changed. I mean, really changed. I've never seen him like this in 22 years. He's apologized to us profusely for the hurt he has caused over the years. Part of his rehab has been to start building the bridges of contact with his children. He began writing to them while in prison. He has spent time with his youngest son, going to his ballgames this past weekend. Yesterday, Memorial Day, he spent the day with his daughter who is his oldest child. He has not seen her since she was a baby. She is now 17. We met her and her mother yesterday. She is such a lovely young lady. She graduates high school next year and plans to pursue a career in nursing. Eddie is still patiently communicating with his oldest son. There have been replies and we are praying for good things to happen. You see, Eddie has never paid child support and does not have the finances yet to do so. So it will be out the goodness and compassion of these mothers' hearts if he is to have a part in his children's lives at this point.
Daniel is so excited about having his "big brother" in his life. They spent last weekend together. Eddie went to church with Daniel and Erin. A bunch of the guys played ball later that afternoon. They had a weiner roast. Eddie asked Daniel how he could want anything to do with him after the life he has lived and Daniel simply told him, "You're my brother and I love you." That just says it all, hm? *tears*
As I type this, Eddie is outside on our roof with Ed, Bro. Lew Dunnells (Daniel's father-in-law, who pastors in Nelsonville), and another man from the Nelsonville church. They are putting the new roof on this week. Now, I ask you, could this boy (Eddie) be in any better company? *smile* Eddie was baptized in Jesus' Name as a child and received the baptism of the Holy Ghost. He knows this wonderful pentecostal way. He says the Lord helped him through these past months and that the Lord is helping him restore his relationship with his children. And indeed He is. We are praying that he commits his life to God completely again.
Ed and I can only shake our heads, shed tears, and thank the Lord for the miraculous work He is doing in Eddie's life. And for the grandchildren we are meeting and getting to know for the first time. It is never too late. We must never give up on our loved ones and friends and neighbors. The Lord does hear our prayers and see the tears that we shed. He is so faithful and just and merciful.
We've shared more hugs and I love yous with this boy in the past week! *smile* He has come home.
Through the years, Eddie has had very short-lived times of being clean. He has entered this program and that program, but never sticking with it. In jail. On probation. Eluding the police. In prison. But something happened this time. He is 38. It was either do this program to completion or spend 30 months in prison without parole. He has three children by three different women. He lost contact with them through the years because of non-support and his lifestyle of drugs.
Two weeks ago, we received a phone call from him. He had just completed...COMPLETED....a nine-month stint in a prison rehab/bootcamp. And he is clean. And changed. I mean, really changed. I've never seen him like this in 22 years. He's apologized to us profusely for the hurt he has caused over the years. Part of his rehab has been to start building the bridges of contact with his children. He began writing to them while in prison. He has spent time with his youngest son, going to his ballgames this past weekend. Yesterday, Memorial Day, he spent the day with his daughter who is his oldest child. He has not seen her since she was a baby. She is now 17. We met her and her mother yesterday. She is such a lovely young lady. She graduates high school next year and plans to pursue a career in nursing. Eddie is still patiently communicating with his oldest son. There have been replies and we are praying for good things to happen. You see, Eddie has never paid child support and does not have the finances yet to do so. So it will be out the goodness and compassion of these mothers' hearts if he is to have a part in his children's lives at this point.
Daniel is so excited about having his "big brother" in his life. They spent last weekend together. Eddie went to church with Daniel and Erin. A bunch of the guys played ball later that afternoon. They had a weiner roast. Eddie asked Daniel how he could want anything to do with him after the life he has lived and Daniel simply told him, "You're my brother and I love you." That just says it all, hm? *tears*
As I type this, Eddie is outside on our roof with Ed, Bro. Lew Dunnells (Daniel's father-in-law, who pastors in Nelsonville), and another man from the Nelsonville church. They are putting the new roof on this week. Now, I ask you, could this boy (Eddie) be in any better company? *smile* Eddie was baptized in Jesus' Name as a child and received the baptism of the Holy Ghost. He knows this wonderful pentecostal way. He says the Lord helped him through these past months and that the Lord is helping him restore his relationship with his children. And indeed He is. We are praying that he commits his life to God completely again.
Ed and I can only shake our heads, shed tears, and thank the Lord for the miraculous work He is doing in Eddie's life. And for the grandchildren we are meeting and getting to know for the first time. It is never too late. We must never give up on our loved ones and friends and neighbors. The Lord does hear our prayers and see the tears that we shed. He is so faithful and just and merciful.
We've shared more hugs and I love yous with this boy in the past week! *smile* He has come home.
Friday, May 25, 2007
This I Believe
In his speech class at college, Daniel's instructor asked each of them to write a story for the "This I Believe" contest which is sponsored each year by NPR. The author of the winning story will win $200. This is the story that Daniel submitted. He still needs to pare it down some as it can only be 550 words. I think it is very good. It actually moved me and Ed to tears when we read it. Of course, we knew the faithful canine that it is written about. *smile*
A dog makes the best of friends. You see, I was an only child. At the age of six, my dad found a puppy in a briar patch next to our lane. This puppy would become my pseudo-sibling and best friend during my growing-up years and, in retrospect, I believe I was blessed to have this beloved canine companion as compared to another little human being. You see, we never argued. We never fought over taking turns at anything. In fact, we agreed on most everything, if my memory serves me correctly. Yep, whatever I wanted to do, Bear did it with the enthusiasm that only a dog possesses. And even though Bear was a female, she and I didn’t have the usual boy-girl fights. No, it seems that ours was a mutually-balanced relationship. When I wanted to just lay around, relax and watch a movie, Bear was content to do the same. She would stretch out beside me with a look of complete contentment on her face. Or if I wanted to go outside and go sledding, she was eager and ready to go, many times riding the sled down the hill with me. We had a ball together those many winters. I remember how she would put her snout down in the snow and just go plowing through, eating it as she went.
I had a pair of bright orange boxing gloves and while I didn’t have a punching bag, I had Bear and she loved to box with me. When she would see those gloves come out, she was on her feet and ready to go at it, her tail furiously beating the air. I remember giving her some pretty stiff upper cuts but she just came back for more. Oh, the times we had! Her teeth ripped some pretty substantial holes in those gloves but not so much so that we couldn’t still have our regular bouts.
If I decided to go hunting, Bear was all for it. When she saw me come out the door with my orange hat on and my hunting gear in hand, she just went wild, jumping around, eager to get on the trail of whatever we were pursuing that day. She was a perfect hunting companion, unlike most female humans I know. I remember how quietly she would sit beside me in the woods, not twitching a muscle, listening intently, waiting for me to make the first move. When I would finally shoot a squirrel, she would be off like a bolt of lightning to retrieve our catch. I believe this was her favorite activity that we shared in.
Bear was a great traveling companion, too. No matter how fast or how far I rode my bike, she was right with me. I somehow felt that she was there to protect me and watch over me in her own way, too.
I believe that my early years were so much richer and fuller because of Bear. I can only imagine how lonely my childhood might have been had I not had her constant companionship. I could talk to her freely knowing there would be no judgments coming from her or hasty opinions. No, she just let me talk things out with her and sort them all out in my own time. Can you put a price on that sort of thing? I don’t think so.
Yes, God knew what He was doing when He allowed that little ball of fur to be caught in the briar patch all those many years ago. He knew a little boy that needed the quiet loyalty and companionship of a good dog in his growing-up years.
Yes, I believe in the value of canine companions. Bearly Diane Cavinee was mine. She died unexpectedly when she was about twelve years old. I can’t imagine that I would have grieved any more for a human sister than I did for Bear.
Today, my wife and I have four dogs that live with us. Heidi, the boxer, is my girl and though I love her to death, there will never be a dog like Bear. You see, she was my first. My growing-up girl.
A dog makes the best of friends. You see, I was an only child. At the age of six, my dad found a puppy in a briar patch next to our lane. This puppy would become my pseudo-sibling and best friend during my growing-up years and, in retrospect, I believe I was blessed to have this beloved canine companion as compared to another little human being. You see, we never argued. We never fought over taking turns at anything. In fact, we agreed on most everything, if my memory serves me correctly. Yep, whatever I wanted to do, Bear did it with the enthusiasm that only a dog possesses. And even though Bear was a female, she and I didn’t have the usual boy-girl fights. No, it seems that ours was a mutually-balanced relationship. When I wanted to just lay around, relax and watch a movie, Bear was content to do the same. She would stretch out beside me with a look of complete contentment on her face. Or if I wanted to go outside and go sledding, she was eager and ready to go, many times riding the sled down the hill with me. We had a ball together those many winters. I remember how she would put her snout down in the snow and just go plowing through, eating it as she went.
I had a pair of bright orange boxing gloves and while I didn’t have a punching bag, I had Bear and she loved to box with me. When she would see those gloves come out, she was on her feet and ready to go at it, her tail furiously beating the air. I remember giving her some pretty stiff upper cuts but she just came back for more. Oh, the times we had! Her teeth ripped some pretty substantial holes in those gloves but not so much so that we couldn’t still have our regular bouts.
If I decided to go hunting, Bear was all for it. When she saw me come out the door with my orange hat on and my hunting gear in hand, she just went wild, jumping around, eager to get on the trail of whatever we were pursuing that day. She was a perfect hunting companion, unlike most female humans I know. I remember how quietly she would sit beside me in the woods, not twitching a muscle, listening intently, waiting for me to make the first move. When I would finally shoot a squirrel, she would be off like a bolt of lightning to retrieve our catch. I believe this was her favorite activity that we shared in.
Bear was a great traveling companion, too. No matter how fast or how far I rode my bike, she was right with me. I somehow felt that she was there to protect me and watch over me in her own way, too.
I believe that my early years were so much richer and fuller because of Bear. I can only imagine how lonely my childhood might have been had I not had her constant companionship. I could talk to her freely knowing there would be no judgments coming from her or hasty opinions. No, she just let me talk things out with her and sort them all out in my own time. Can you put a price on that sort of thing? I don’t think so.
Yes, God knew what He was doing when He allowed that little ball of fur to be caught in the briar patch all those many years ago. He knew a little boy that needed the quiet loyalty and companionship of a good dog in his growing-up years.
Yes, I believe in the value of canine companions. Bearly Diane Cavinee was mine. She died unexpectedly when she was about twelve years old. I can’t imagine that I would have grieved any more for a human sister than I did for Bear.
Today, my wife and I have four dogs that live with us. Heidi, the boxer, is my girl and though I love her to death, there will never be a dog like Bear. You see, she was my first. My growing-up girl.
A quick re-cap of the week
Monday evening, a group from church, including yours truly, travelled to Christian Apostolic Church in Newark, Ohio, pastored by Bro. Keith Sjostrand, to see "Nona", a drama, presented by Gateway College of Evangelism. It depicts the early life of Sis. Nona Freeman and how she met her husband and their call to Africa as missionaries. I wrestled within myself about going because I was in pain and so on, but I am so glad I made the effort. It was awesome and so inspiring. Sis. Freeman is travelling with the group. She is 92! If I understood correctly, they are doing 9 performances in 9 days in 9 different cities and Sis. Freeman is going to be at each one. When the drama ended, Sis. Freeman was escorted to the front where she sat in a chair and proceeded to pray for any and everyone who desired prayer. I was second in line. What a great woman of God she is! The Lord ministered to me so wonderfully that night and the young people from Gateway prayed for me so fervently and sincerely. Again, it was a night I won't soon forget.
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It has been a rather difficult week. The pain level has been up there for some reason. Most often I can just push through it and go on, but not this week, it seems. It's been a real struggle to not just give in and go to bed but I must stay active or my poor body will just eventually freeze up on me. "Head and shoulders, knees and toes, knees and toes, knees and toes...." Remember that little children's exercise song? *grin* Or how about "You gotta move, you've gotta move, you've gotta move, you've gotta move. Oh, when the Lord gets ready, you've gotta move, you've gotta move, you've gotta move." *whew* Well, that's what I keep tellin' myself. *feeble grin* "I think I can, I think I can, I think I can......" (from "The Little Engine That Could")
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Bro. Daniel Hamman from Mt. Vernon is in Logan this weekend setting up the new multi-media at church! Isn't that exciting??!?!?! I went out to the church this evening and several men had gathered to help him. While I was there, they put a 52 inch flat screen up on the back wall of the sanctuary for the benefit of those on the platform. Now this was a feat let me tell you! I was praying all the while they were hoisting it up on the scaffolding and then mounting it. *smile* I should have had my camera, I know. I'll try to get some pics tomorrow.
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We don't have any special plans for the holiday weekend and that is quite alright. One thing that will be going on is on Monday, Daniel, Eddie (Ed's oldest son) and Ed will be putting a new roof on our mobile home. Here is a before pic and I'll post an "after" later. There is nothing wrong with the old roof, except that they will be adding some extra insulation and it will look much better! They are definitely going to start early before the afternoon heat sets in.
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It has been a rather difficult week. The pain level has been up there for some reason. Most often I can just push through it and go on, but not this week, it seems. It's been a real struggle to not just give in and go to bed but I must stay active or my poor body will just eventually freeze up on me. "Head and shoulders, knees and toes, knees and toes, knees and toes...." Remember that little children's exercise song? *grin* Or how about "You gotta move, you've gotta move, you've gotta move, you've gotta move. Oh, when the Lord gets ready, you've gotta move, you've gotta move, you've gotta move." *whew* Well, that's what I keep tellin' myself. *feeble grin* "I think I can, I think I can, I think I can......" (from "The Little Engine That Could")
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Bro. Daniel Hamman from Mt. Vernon is in Logan this weekend setting up the new multi-media at church! Isn't that exciting??!?!?! I went out to the church this evening and several men had gathered to help him. While I was there, they put a 52 inch flat screen up on the back wall of the sanctuary for the benefit of those on the platform. Now this was a feat let me tell you! I was praying all the while they were hoisting it up on the scaffolding and then mounting it. *smile* I should have had my camera, I know. I'll try to get some pics tomorrow.
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We don't have any special plans for the holiday weekend and that is quite alright. One thing that will be going on is on Monday, Daniel, Eddie (Ed's oldest son) and Ed will be putting a new roof on our mobile home. Here is a before pic and I'll post an "after" later. There is nothing wrong with the old roof, except that they will be adding some extra insulation and it will look much better! They are definitely going to start early before the afternoon heat sets in.
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Oh and some other great news is: Daniel has a job interview at Diamond Power in Lancaster, Ohio Wednesday morning! I'll keep you posted!
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May you all be blessed with a wonderful Memorial Day Weekend and special time with family and friends!
Wednesday, May 23, 2007
Let sleeping cats lie?
I was sitting here at my computer desk the other evening and noticed Ellie, the cat, sleeping contentedly on the rug in the den. I just couldn't resist taking her picture and pestering her a little. And Ed joined me! *smile* It's just that Ellie can be so snooty and stand-offish sometimes that I just have to "torment" her a little and remind her who's the boss! *grin*
Monday, May 21, 2007
Top Student in Drafting and Design
We attended an awards ceremony at Hocking College with Daniel and Erin this past Thursday evening. Awards were given to the top graduating student in each area of study at Hocking. Daniel was the top student in Drafting and Design. Isn't that great? Graduation is June 10. Yes, we are proud parents. :-)This is a picture of Daniel and Erinmaree and also a picture of Ed, me and Daniel. As you can see, he gets his height from his father! :-)
We lost a "hostage" over the weekend
Yes, you read correctly. One of our "hostages" succumbed to frostbite early Friday morning. I would have posted a picture of it, but Ed ripped it up....er, uh...I mean gently pulled it out of the soil and replaced it with another start from a huge hosta we have in another flower bed. Still, if we only lose this one, we will have done well, I believe.
Monday, May 14, 2007
What do you need?
My friend, Stace, was asking for topics to blog about and I remembered a post that Barbara had posted some time ago and thought it would be interesting and humorous to do. So here it is: You go to Google and type in your name and the word "needs". So I went to Google and typed in "Jewel needs" and here are the top ten results that I got:
1. Jewel needs parking. Well, close parking would be nice as walking has become a bit difficult as of late, BUT the walking is good for me!
2. Jewel needs a microscope. Well, okay, my vision isn't what it used to be but a microscope is a bit of a stretch! *smile*
3. Jewel needs to get serious about stocking more healthy food items. I know, I know. But can I at least keep my Doritos? Please? *grin*
4. Jewel needs your HELP! Would you believe I've been told I'm beyond help? LOL Of course, they were only kidding. (weren't they?)
5. Jewel is in need of exposure. To what? The sun perhaps? I am a bit pale. Hmmm....
6. Jewel needs to be useful and stylish. I AM useful! Stylish? Well, I have my OWN style, which I like. *grin*
7. Jewel needs prescription drugs. This is tooooo funny!! LOL
8. Jewel needs to become independent of her mother. Well, I did this a looooong time ago! "Mother! Are you still out there somewhere trying to tell me what to do?" *smile*
9. Jewel needs to be protected. Awwww....this is sweet. My dear husband takes care of this one. And Jesus.
10. Jewel needs to get a personality. Heyyyyyy......I think I have a pretty good personality the way I am! Of course, there is always room for improvement. Help me, Jesus. *smile*
Give this a try! It is fun and can be pretty funny, too! Have a great Monday!!
1. Jewel needs parking. Well, close parking would be nice as walking has become a bit difficult as of late, BUT the walking is good for me!
2. Jewel needs a microscope. Well, okay, my vision isn't what it used to be but a microscope is a bit of a stretch! *smile*
3. Jewel needs to get serious about stocking more healthy food items. I know, I know. But can I at least keep my Doritos? Please? *grin*
4. Jewel needs your HELP! Would you believe I've been told I'm beyond help? LOL Of course, they were only kidding. (weren't they?)
5. Jewel is in need of exposure. To what? The sun perhaps? I am a bit pale. Hmmm....
6. Jewel needs to be useful and stylish. I AM useful! Stylish? Well, I have my OWN style, which I like. *grin*
7. Jewel needs prescription drugs. This is tooooo funny!! LOL
8. Jewel needs to become independent of her mother. Well, I did this a looooong time ago! "Mother! Are you still out there somewhere trying to tell me what to do?" *smile*
9. Jewel needs to be protected. Awwww....this is sweet. My dear husband takes care of this one. And Jesus.
10. Jewel needs to get a personality. Heyyyyyy......I think I have a pretty good personality the way I am! Of course, there is always room for improvement. Help me, Jesus. *smile*
Give this a try! It is fun and can be pretty funny, too! Have a great Monday!!
He's done it again! *smile*
Ed went out to water the flowers and plants Thursday evening and I went out to watch, when what should he say, but: "Boy! the "hostages" that I planted are doing really well!" HOSTAGES????? Hellooooooo! He was talking about the HOSTAS, folks. LOL So now we have "hostages" planted all about our yard and in the flower beds. Not to worry. We promise to take good care of the many "hostages" about our property. I'm so thankful for the laughter this man brings to my life.
Wednesday, May 09, 2007
Ed, the gardener
In years past, Ed has mowed the grass and I would help, usually with the push mowing and trimming and I kept the flower beds all done up and so on. I did the detail stuff. But now that I am not as agile as I used to be, Ed is doing all of the outside work and a fine job he is doing, I must say! These pictures will attest to this:
I finally gave in and did it
Since travelling with Pastor and Sis. Martin to Kentucky last week, I have suffered a definite set-back with my hips and back. I have really had difficulty walking. Oh, but I've gone to great lengths to let them know that it isn't their fault. We had such a great time and who would have guessed that travelling would have done this to me? And I'd probably go again next week if they wanted to! But my hips have been going a little weak at different times and that has really had me concerned. I went to Dr. Gedeon on Monday and he encouraged me to keep moving, but agreed that the travelling might have very well caused me to suffer the setback. Also, that same day, I read a letter to Dear Abby in the local paper. One of the letters concerned the owner of a business who told about an employee of his that was having difficulty walking. He said that this man was a great asset to the company and he did not want to get rid of him but his concern was that the man would not use any assistance in helping him walk, i.e. a wheelchair , walker. Instead, this man would cling to the wall or hold onto things in order to get around. The business owner was concerned because this just did not look professional. He was asking Abby how he might approach this man about getting a walker, wheelchair or some other device to help him navigate in a more professional manner.
Well, I must tell you that I felt a little pricked in my conscience. I thought: "Lord, are you trying to tell me something?" You see, I am in the same situation as the man needing the walking assistance but being reluctant to get it. At the banquet Sunday afternoon, I had had to have someone meet me at my car and help me into the auditorium. Then my niece helped to our table. My sister, Bev, helped me out to my car. Now, I don't mind this help at all. In fact, I need it. But since I've gotten a bit worse, I've really had to hold onto people and things and so on. I haven't gone shopping or to the library when by myself because I've been unsure of just how I would be able to manage getting to the buildings until I was able to get a cart or find something to hold onto.
Soooooooo........yesterday, a dear lady at our church offered me her rollator walker to use, as she doesn't like it. I had been thinking of getting one but they are a bit costly. You see, a regular walker isn't quite what I need and I had noticed that when I am pushing a shopping cart, I do really well in walking. Anywayyyyy........here is my new travelling companion:
I actually think it is going to help in strengthening my back and legs once again. Sis. Pam couldn't believe how fast and good I was walking last night with my new helper. I might even get the nickname "Speedy" before it is all over with ! *grin* Okay, okay, I might be getting a little ahead of myself. But I can't begin to tell you how good it feels to know that I can go places now by myself without having to depend so much on others to help me. I'll keep you posted as to my progress.
Oh...and I'm thinking of getting some streamers for the handlegrips and, who knows, maybe I might even get a horn! The possiblities are endless! *smile*
"He giveth more grace as our burdens grow greater,
He sendeth more strength as our labors increase;
To added afflictions He addeth His mercy,
To multiplied trials he multiplies peace.
When we have exhausted our store of endurance,
When our strength has failed ere the day is half done,
When we reach the end of our hoarded resources
Our Father’s full giving is only begun.
His love has no limits, His grace has no measure,
His power no boundary known unto men;
For out of His infinite riches in Jesus
He giveth, and giveth, and giveth again."
Well, I must tell you that I felt a little pricked in my conscience. I thought: "Lord, are you trying to tell me something?" You see, I am in the same situation as the man needing the walking assistance but being reluctant to get it. At the banquet Sunday afternoon, I had had to have someone meet me at my car and help me into the auditorium. Then my niece helped to our table. My sister, Bev, helped me out to my car. Now, I don't mind this help at all. In fact, I need it. But since I've gotten a bit worse, I've really had to hold onto people and things and so on. I haven't gone shopping or to the library when by myself because I've been unsure of just how I would be able to manage getting to the buildings until I was able to get a cart or find something to hold onto.
Soooooooo........yesterday, a dear lady at our church offered me her rollator walker to use, as she doesn't like it. I had been thinking of getting one but they are a bit costly. You see, a regular walker isn't quite what I need and I had noticed that when I am pushing a shopping cart, I do really well in walking. Anywayyyyy........here is my new travelling companion:
I actually think it is going to help in strengthening my back and legs once again. Sis. Pam couldn't believe how fast and good I was walking last night with my new helper. I might even get the nickname "Speedy" before it is all over with ! *grin* Okay, okay, I might be getting a little ahead of myself. But I can't begin to tell you how good it feels to know that I can go places now by myself without having to depend so much on others to help me. I'll keep you posted as to my progress.
Oh...and I'm thinking of getting some streamers for the handlegrips and, who knows, maybe I might even get a horn! The possiblities are endless! *smile*
"He giveth more grace as our burdens grow greater,
He sendeth more strength as our labors increase;
To added afflictions He addeth His mercy,
To multiplied trials he multiplies peace.
When we have exhausted our store of endurance,
When our strength has failed ere the day is half done,
When we reach the end of our hoarded resources
Our Father’s full giving is only begun.
His love has no limits, His grace has no measure,
His power no boundary known unto men;
For out of His infinite riches in Jesus
He giveth, and giveth, and giveth again."
Still counting my blessings
Yesterday evening, my good friend and prayer partner, Sis. Pam, and I travelled to Mt. Vernon where IBC's chorale was singing in the evening service. I have a special connection to the church because Pastor Duane Kramer was my youth pastor under Bro. Leaman, when I first came into the church.
Back then, Wednesday was my day off at work, and I would go to the church in the morning and do any tasks that Bro. Kramer needed help with. I just wanted to be around the church and the people of God. My reward for doing this was that Bro. Kramer answered all of the million-and-one questions I had about God and the Bible. You see, I didn't know anything about God or the Bible or anything when I came into the church. I didn't even know about the Holy Ghost and still God so graciously and miracously filled me with His Spirit when I repented that first night. Bro. and Sis. Kramer would have me over to their home for lunch and if there wasn't anything for me to do at the church, Sis. Kramer and I would go to the library or the park. Well, last night at church in Mt. Vernon, I made sure I got a picture of me and Pastor Kramer. And, again, I never fail to thank him for the time he spent in teaching me and helping to become grounded in the word and things of the Lord.
I also got to see and visit with Sis. Serena Edwards. She was my star piano student a few years ago and I was her first "apostolic" piano teacher. She is now a student at IBC. Oh, and she passed me by a long time ago as far as her abilities on the piano goes. The girl can just flat tear it up now! *smile* She is a sweetheart! Oh, and she is single, too. ;-) I cannot say enough good things about this young woman. She is sold out to God and is such an inspiration to everyone who knows her or has the privilege of meeting her.
And last, but certainly not least by ANY means, I got to see BECKY, my adopted grand-daughter!! She sat with me in service last night and we talked when we were able to and caught up on a few things that are going on in her life.
I also got to see Bro. Donnie Ryan and his sweet family, Bro. Don Ryan, Bro. and Sis. Sheets, Sis. Jana, Sis. Theresa and so many others that I hadn't seen for so long. It was a real treat! Again, I must say that I am so blessed to have so many wonderful, godly people in my life. There is no greater treasure in this life.
"A faithful friend is the medicine of life."
I am so blessed
This past Sunday, I had the privilege of spending time with some wonderful people who have had such a profound effect on my life.
First, Bro. David and Sis. Kathy Brott were in service with us on Sunday. He taught and preached both AM and PM services and it was wonderful. He was our pastor here in Logan for several years, I believe it was in the late '70's, early 80's. I was single at the time and spent alot of time with them, helping with the children and helping Sis. Brott with their home when needed. She and I also took piano lessons together from Bro. Dan Dean when he was at New Life Christian Center under Bro. Roam's pastorate. Wow.....so many memories through the years.
After being missionaries to the Philippines for many years, they now make their home in Omaha, Nebraska where their parents and children reside. Bro. and Sis. Brott now travel doing deputational work for missionaries in that they go to district conferences and endeavor to raise money for special projects that the missionaries have in their respective countries. By doing this, the missionaries are able to go back to their fields of labor once they have gotten enough PIM's to support them.
On Sunday afternoon, I went to New Life Christian Center where they were celebrating the church's 75th anniversary with many special speakers and an afternoon banquet. It was here that I was able to spend some time with my first pastor and his wife, Bro. and Sis. Jack Leaman. These dear people poured themselves into me when I first gave my heart to the Lord. I believe 62 people were added to the church in the revival in which I received the Holy Ghost. Bro. Lee Stoneking was the evangelist. The revival lasted for six weeks. Bro. Leaman made sure that we had new converts classes and were grounded in the word and the things of the Lord. It is because of their care for me that I am still walking with the Lord today. They laid such a firm foundation for me and I've never forgotten it or failed to thank them to this day for their loving care of me and so many others that came to know the Lord under their leadership.
On Sunday afternoon, I also spent time with my sister, Bev, and her family, as I sat with them at the banquet. Bev has always been an example of steadfastness to me. She is unwavering in her faith and walk with the Lord. Here we are as she helped me to my car. I'm on the left, if you can't tell. *grin* Oh, and everyone thinks we are twins but we aren't. She is three years older than me and I do have a twin brother and we don't look alike. *smile*
So now you see and know why I say: "I am blessed, I am blessed, every day that I live, I am blessed."
First, Bro. David and Sis. Kathy Brott were in service with us on Sunday. He taught and preached both AM and PM services and it was wonderful. He was our pastor here in Logan for several years, I believe it was in the late '70's, early 80's. I was single at the time and spent alot of time with them, helping with the children and helping Sis. Brott with their home when needed. She and I also took piano lessons together from Bro. Dan Dean when he was at New Life Christian Center under Bro. Roam's pastorate. Wow.....so many memories through the years.
After being missionaries to the Philippines for many years, they now make their home in Omaha, Nebraska where their parents and children reside. Bro. and Sis. Brott now travel doing deputational work for missionaries in that they go to district conferences and endeavor to raise money for special projects that the missionaries have in their respective countries. By doing this, the missionaries are able to go back to their fields of labor once they have gotten enough PIM's to support them.
On Sunday afternoon, I went to New Life Christian Center where they were celebrating the church's 75th anniversary with many special speakers and an afternoon banquet. It was here that I was able to spend some time with my first pastor and his wife, Bro. and Sis. Jack Leaman. These dear people poured themselves into me when I first gave my heart to the Lord. I believe 62 people were added to the church in the revival in which I received the Holy Ghost. Bro. Lee Stoneking was the evangelist. The revival lasted for six weeks. Bro. Leaman made sure that we had new converts classes and were grounded in the word and the things of the Lord. It is because of their care for me that I am still walking with the Lord today. They laid such a firm foundation for me and I've never forgotten it or failed to thank them to this day for their loving care of me and so many others that came to know the Lord under their leadership.
On Sunday afternoon, I also spent time with my sister, Bev, and her family, as I sat with them at the banquet. Bev has always been an example of steadfastness to me. She is unwavering in her faith and walk with the Lord. Here we are as she helped me to my car. I'm on the left, if you can't tell. *grin* Oh, and everyone thinks we are twins but we aren't. She is three years older than me and I do have a twin brother and we don't look alike. *smile*
So now you see and know why I say: "I am blessed, I am blessed, every day that I live, I am blessed."
Friday, May 04, 2007
Did you hear the one about......
.....the horse that walked into the bar and the bartender asked him: "Why the long face?"
(Pastor Martin told us this one and I about died laughing! I loooooove corny jokes that make you groan! *smile*)
(Pastor Martin told us this one and I about died laughing! I loooooove corny jokes that make you groan! *smile*)
My apologies.....
.....for ending my last post so abruptly BUT I was having so much trouble uploading pictures and so on, that I just finally got aggravated and logged off last night! *feeble grin*
But here I am once again. We got home at about 7:30pm Tuesday evening and I was worn slap out. Thusly, I was in bed by 9:30. *grin* Of course, my sister Debbie called me EARLY the next morning because she has not been feeling well. You see, they have a new head doctor at Tri-County Mental Health (no pun intended by saying he is the HEAD doctor *smile*). Everytime a new doctor takes over, they think they have to start adjusting and changing everyone's medicines and it never fails to mess Debbie up for a while. She was really not doing well last night and we thought she was going to have to be taken to the state hospital in Athens for a few days, but they had her double up on one of her meds and today she was back to her normal self....thankfully! I have been on the phone with her continuously the past two to three days, trying to help her, encourage her and pray with her. I stopped by this afternoon to check on her and, sure enough, she was her old self again. I am so thankful that she is better, especially with the weekend being here.
ANDDDDDD since arriving home from our 2-day excursion, I have been paying the price in pain, let me tell you. BUT.....I'd go again tomorrow if anyone wanted to! *feeble grin* Well, I just can't stay home and do nothing. I have to keep moving and pushing and doing what I can or I will just shrivel up and die! Okay...well, maybe not die but shrivel up...yes. *smile* And that is exactly what Dr. Gedeon told me today: Enjoy life as much as you can, Mrs. Cavinee (makes me feel sooo old, him calling me Mrs. Cavinee, and patting me on the shoulder :-/) and keep a postive attitude. And I do try but the past three days have been pretttttty rough, to the point that just walking has been a real trick. BUT, I have managed, while also taking time to rest in between and so on. I just don't know what I would do without my patient and kind husband. He is so helpful to me and understanding.
I am still just so amazed at the treatment I get at Dr. Gedeon's for $20!!! Today, they put me on the heated water massage table for twenty minutes. I could live on that table. I do almost go to sleep on it sometimes, if you can believe that. I want one! *smile* Then Diana, the massage therapist, works on me for about 20-30 minutes. She is AMAZING! Next, Dr. Gedeon does adjustments and so on for approximately 15-20 minutes, sometimes a little longer. Can you believe that? For $20!!! I am so thankful for their care and kindness and I never cease to thank them each visit. I am going to try going twice a week beginning Monday and see if it helps a little more in reducing my pain and so on. I have been more than a little concerned about the difficulty that I've been having with walking. This girl was made for walkin', I tell ya! I'll keep you posted!
Here are a few more pictures of our Kentucky trip to Butcher Holler:
Ed just had to take a picture of me cripping up the steps:
But here I am once again. We got home at about 7:30pm Tuesday evening and I was worn slap out. Thusly, I was in bed by 9:30. *grin* Of course, my sister Debbie called me EARLY the next morning because she has not been feeling well. You see, they have a new head doctor at Tri-County Mental Health (no pun intended by saying he is the HEAD doctor *smile*). Everytime a new doctor takes over, they think they have to start adjusting and changing everyone's medicines and it never fails to mess Debbie up for a while. She was really not doing well last night and we thought she was going to have to be taken to the state hospital in Athens for a few days, but they had her double up on one of her meds and today she was back to her normal self....thankfully! I have been on the phone with her continuously the past two to three days, trying to help her, encourage her and pray with her. I stopped by this afternoon to check on her and, sure enough, she was her old self again. I am so thankful that she is better, especially with the weekend being here.
ANDDDDDD since arriving home from our 2-day excursion, I have been paying the price in pain, let me tell you. BUT.....I'd go again tomorrow if anyone wanted to! *feeble grin* Well, I just can't stay home and do nothing. I have to keep moving and pushing and doing what I can or I will just shrivel up and die! Okay...well, maybe not die but shrivel up...yes. *smile* And that is exactly what Dr. Gedeon told me today: Enjoy life as much as you can, Mrs. Cavinee (makes me feel sooo old, him calling me Mrs. Cavinee, and patting me on the shoulder :-/) and keep a postive attitude. And I do try but the past three days have been pretttttty rough, to the point that just walking has been a real trick. BUT, I have managed, while also taking time to rest in between and so on. I just don't know what I would do without my patient and kind husband. He is so helpful to me and understanding.
I am still just so amazed at the treatment I get at Dr. Gedeon's for $20!!! Today, they put me on the heated water massage table for twenty minutes. I could live on that table. I do almost go to sleep on it sometimes, if you can believe that. I want one! *smile* Then Diana, the massage therapist, works on me for about 20-30 minutes. She is AMAZING! Next, Dr. Gedeon does adjustments and so on for approximately 15-20 minutes, sometimes a little longer. Can you believe that? For $20!!! I am so thankful for their care and kindness and I never cease to thank them each visit. I am going to try going twice a week beginning Monday and see if it helps a little more in reducing my pain and so on. I have been more than a little concerned about the difficulty that I've been having with walking. This girl was made for walkin', I tell ya! I'll keep you posted!
Here are a few more pictures of our Kentucky trip to Butcher Holler:
Ed just had to take a picture of me cripping up the steps:
And this is me and Sis. Martin swinging on the front porch as we waited for Mr. Webb to arrive. There is just nothing like swinging on the front porch with a cool breeze blowing.
Thursday, May 03, 2007
Finally!!!!
Ed and I went to Kentucky with Pastor and Sister Martin on Monday. Sis. Martin has a cousin who has once again been diagnosed with cancer after having been in remission for almost six years and she wanted to go see her and also visit the area where she was raised and where her mother's family is from. We had a great time! I had forgotten how much I love Kentucky. I could just listen to the people there talk all day long! I find it soooo relaxing.
It was a spur of the moment trip, meaning that we didn't really decide to go until late Sunday night after we'd gotten home from church, but spur-of-the-moment trips can be the best kind sometimes. We threw a few things into a small suitcase and off we went! We left at about ten Monday morning and had beautiful weather all the way. It was only about a four hour drive and we were there: Paintsville, Kentucky which is on the eastern side of the state. After spending a very restful evening in our hotel, on Tuesday morning we decided to do a little site-seeing and went to Butcher Holler and saw Loretta Lynn's homeplace. It was soooo neat! Here are a few pics that I took. The first one is of Ed coming out of Loretta Lynn's outhouse! I couldn't resist! Noooo, he didn't really use it! Sheesh! It was a staged picture, okay? LOL
The next picture is of me sitting on the backdoor step.
It was a spur of the moment trip, meaning that we didn't really decide to go until late Sunday night after we'd gotten home from church, but spur-of-the-moment trips can be the best kind sometimes. We threw a few things into a small suitcase and off we went! We left at about ten Monday morning and had beautiful weather all the way. It was only about a four hour drive and we were there: Paintsville, Kentucky which is on the eastern side of the state. After spending a very restful evening in our hotel, on Tuesday morning we decided to do a little site-seeing and went to Butcher Holler and saw Loretta Lynn's homeplace. It was soooo neat! Here are a few pics that I took. The first one is of Ed coming out of Loretta Lynn's outhouse! I couldn't resist! Noooo, he didn't really use it! Sheesh! It was a staged picture, okay? LOL
The next picture is of me sitting on the backdoor step.
I should have put this at the beginning: The rock sign telling us we had arrived!
The next one is of Ed, Mr. Webb-Loretta's brother, and Pastor Martin.
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