There was really a tangle of stuff to straighten out at the Jeannette store. My PENNDOT computer program was not working right, and it seemed like every paper I picked up has a discrepancy! It was almost noon when I finished with work, which is later than usual. A quick stop the help Mike P with something and I was done. He gave me a really pretty Christmas pen, too!

From there I went to Norwin Aldi and Walmart, just for a change of pace shopping. I was able to get what I needed for the next week so that’s good. When I got home I heated up a piece of my pot pie and had a small bite of my fudge, which is almost gone!

I made a cup of hot tea in my Snoopy mug, and my kissy Snoopy stood watch. I have my spruce scented candle lit, and I have A GIFT OF LOVE playing on the DVD in the background. It’s a very old movie with Marie Osmond but a favorite!

Once I post this, I’ll finish up my Christmas cards. I was low on confetti (SAY it isn’t SO!!!) and Christmas is impossible to find, so I had to get a substitute. I got plenty, so if perchance you get a Christmas card from me, open with care!

December 8 – Tell about your favorite store to browse in as a child. “The only store in Plumville was the Douds General Store. When we went to shop in Indiana, PA, I liked Murphy’s 5 & 10. J C Penny’s had a tube that the clerk put your money into, when you bought something. It shot up to a sec/bookkeeper on the mezzanine where she made change & sent it back down to the clerk. It was fun to watch.

Calendar inspiration – Be bold, bright, and ready for adventures!

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TOMORROW December 9th is:

• Christmas Card Day
• National Pastry Day
• Weary Willie Day
• National Salesperson Day 

I guess I’m destined to mail my cards tomorrow. And trust me when I say that during my Smail and Pinnacle career I have met and known a LOT of salespersons! I even married one – but we need to gently forget about that…. God bless!!!

Today’s biggest news is that it is Gen’s birthday! I txt her early this morning to say happy birthday and she was looking forward to celebrating with Chris, Lauren and Jack. Sharing just a few pictures to help with the celebrations.

It was cleaning day – as is usual for a Wednesday. I stopped long enough to grab a quick lunch from the goodies I made yesterday, then finished up cleaning. It smells fresh and clean in here! I am sharing two pictures – one of my milk jug ladle with a poinsettia candle, and one of the living room window with the dots from the outside projector. You can see the green and red (almost looks pink) spots on the window.

Not much else to report – Bible study is at 7pm so I decided to put this together early. Just folded the towels and after church I will finish the Christmas cards.

December 7th – Do you have a Pearl Harbor Day memory? “Our family was my Grandmother Margret Crooks, her oldest son Edd, my dad (Grandma’s youngest), my mother and us 4 kids. We were all at the table & dad turned on the radio. The newsman was telling about the awful attack on Pearl Harbor. That was the first time I remember hearing that name, Pearl Harbor. None of us ever forgot it from that day to this day in 2004.”

Calendar inspiration – Enthusiasm is often more important than the ability to do something.

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TOMORROW December 8th is:

• National Crossword Solvers Day ***
• National Brownie Day
• Pretend to Be a Time Traveler Day

Brownies that you eat or Brownies that are mini-girl scouts? I’ll look it up. I have a favorite Christmas book that’s about time travel and I plan to read it as soon as I finish the book I’m reading now! Have a good day – God bless…

There were only a few catch-up things to do in both Jeannette and Greensburg. I did that, and ran a few Christmas-related errands. Well, one was to get the foaming drain cleaner (hoping to do that Saturday morning) and a hair-catcher for the tub drain. Hoping they both work like promised.

I had a muffin when I got home, then put together a turkey pot pie. I had broth and gravy and noodles and turkey in the freezer that I saved for that exact purpose, and had just bought the pie crust. It smells really good – and hope to have a piece for supper later.

Kathy asked for help with making a Walmart photo online account and purchase. I went over and we worked our way through the process, and 2 hours later she stopped and got her prints! I’m so glad that worked out. She shared one of her holiday angels with me that she got at a craft sale. Thanks, sis!

When I got home, I made a big pot of potato soup.

I also stopped on the way home and got my Christmas ham and required noodles. Now I just have to come up with the entire menu for Christmas Eve and our family Christmas meal on the 28th.

December 6 – Do you have any knowledge of how your first name was chosen? “My father always picked our names. I know my middle name, Jane, was his sister’s middle name and he always told me I was given that because of how much he thought of her (Emma Jane Crooks Whitacre).”

Calendar inspiration – Get your Christmas cards out early – Send someone a surprise note.

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TOMORROW December 7th is:

• National Cotton Candy Day
• National Illinois Day
• National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day

It’s also Gen’s birthday tomorrow! We’ll see a few photos tomorrow. Wonder if baby Snow Shovel will be born on Grama’s birthday!!! Have a great day and God Bless…

Today was another rather busy day. I had a few things to do in Jeannette, and the lot guy (Colton) took care of my car. He checked the air in all the tires and added some to two of them. Then he washed and dried the car and swept it out. It was very nice of him! From there I got gas in the car, mailed a package and got stamps in Greensburg, and then went to my dentist appointment. Dr. Lane replaced the temporary crown implant with the permanent one, and then the technicians scanned my mouth for the last two (I hope!) crowns for the other implants. From there I went to Greensburg, then came home.

After a bagel for lunch I made the Oreo Ice Cream dessert for the weekend, then sewed two Christmas rice bags for gifts for friends for Christmas. That was about it for the day, other than ironing, which I’ll do later. Maybe I’ll organize my Christmas card list…

December 5 – Did you ever have a bad experience with a haircut or a permanent? “My neighbor in Greensburg gave me a home perm in May of 1986. I was marrying John on June 21st. My hair was so ‘permed’ I looked like a wild woman. My nephew’s wife, Bonnie Crooks, is a beautician. She treated my hair & set it for my wedding day. Thank you, Bonnie!”

Calendar inspiration – When you change your attitude about something, you change the situation.

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Tomorrow December 6th is:

• Miners’ Day
• National Gazpacho Day
• National Microwave Oven Day
• National Pawnbrokers Day
• St. Nicholas Day
• World Trick Shot Day 

Ah, yes. Leave your shoes outside by the door and St. Nicholas will fill them with toys, games and candy. Good luck and God bless…

I went down to check the car tire first thing this morning – it did not lose any more air – still at 28 psi. So I went about my morning routine and went to church as usual. There were missionaries from Ghana West Africa there for today’s service, and their two kids were in our class: Harrison (age 6) and Evie (age 4). Max and JJ were fascinated with the stories about snakes and alligators that Harrison was telling, very matter of fact-ly. Harrison let me know that he already knew the whole story (about the birth of Jesus) but if I thought he needed to hear it he’d listen!

I came home and took a little break before heading over to Diane’s, where she, her friend Walter and I went to pick up Shannon. We went to the Butler Little Theater to see a version of A Christmas Carol.

It was sort of an adaption of the actual book/play, and was very funny and clever. Laughter is such great medicine! There were six actors and they played all the parts, with guys playing female parts and vice-versa. The ghost of Christmas yet to come was played by a black robe draped over a clothes tree! The Cratchit children (except Tiny Tim) were played by hand puppets. It was worth seeing.

We stopped at King’s on the way home and had supper. It was a nice day, and a great weekend, but I am looking forward to a few days of just a normal schedule!

November 4 – Were you ever in a life-threatening situation? “When your father & I went for a buggy ride & the horse, Dusty, got spooked. He upset the buggy with me under it. If Dusty would have run off he would have dragged me along with the upset buggy. I was very sore and lots of scratches but no bones broken.” I certainly remember that! It was very scary!

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TOMORROW December 5th is:

• Bathtub Party Day
• International Ninja Day
• National Repeal Day
• National Sacher Torte Day

I’ve never had a party in a bathtub – probably never will. Tomorrow I have a dentist appointment and a determination to get the tire situation resolved. So, have a great day! God bless…

I had time this morning to change, wash, dry, fold, and remake my bed with fresh sheets. Kathy and Paul picked me up about 10:30am and we headed to camp. It was cloudy and cool but thankful there was no snow to go up over the mountains. The view is amazing coming back down; the vistas are beautiful even in the late fall.

Camp’s dining hall was decorated nicely. The tables all looked festive and the food was very good – beef, chicken, mashed potatoes and gravy, stuffing, veggies, spinach roll, fresh buns with butter. Salad and dessert.

Greg Voss, his wife Melanie, and their daughter Adelaide were the musical entertainment. They all have great talent as singers, and Greg and Adelaide played guitar. All three had solos at one point. Greg sang a song about a Christmas cease-fire during WWII and it was very moving. I had never heard it before.

Since it’s Christmas and there are so many out-of-the-house chores, I have been trying to do a few at a time so I’m not out and about all day any time. It seems, though, that I have to make several stops at numerous stores before I accomplish even one thing. Then I had to pop down to Nate’s and pick up the auction items for Kelly & I. On the way home, the ‘add air’ light for my passenger rear tire came on. I’m not sure if I’ll have a flat when I get up in the morning or not. I am prepared to deal with whatever happens and stay home all day if necessary!! A quote from ‘An American President’ (Movie) – We don’t have time to do things one at a time! Ugh.

I did not stay to watch the play last night after I finished ushering. They sold out – full house! I was standing in the lobby and heard part of the first song (Hard Knock Life) and snapped a quick pic through the door window. I’m sure it was a cute show. The Garden Center had their annual craft sale (all garden related items!) and I saw the cutest pine cone tree. I may have purchased one but got pulled away before I could do that. Gen, if you read this, I think you could make these. I still have the candle that you and Zane made many, many years ago!

After I finish this I’ll grab food then be done. It’s been a busy, busy week/month/season!

December 3 – Do you have another good piece of advice for me? “Life is not a race, but a journey to be savored each step of the way. Yesterday is history, tomorrow is a mystery, and today is a gift; that’s why we call it the present.” Great advise Mom! I need to slow down and appreciate!

Calendar inspiration – We often get clues that change is coming – watch for the clues so the changes won’t surprise you!

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TOMORROW December 4th is:

• National Cookie Day
• National Dice Day
• National Sock Day

I will wear socks; I’ll have a cookie, but I can’t guarantee the dice! Have a wonderful Sunday. God bless…

I spent all morning trying to put things back together that didn’t turn out exactly as expected. Di came over at about 11:30am and we made a Tombstone pizza, salad, and had cookies. Then we popped in a DVD that she got through Netflix – Happiness is a Warm Blanket Charlie Brown. We laughed out loud in a few places. Poor Linus – he sometimes has a rough time holding on to that blue blanket!

So last night Kath and I did go to see I HEARD THE BELLS. I liked it a lot – I prefer light-hearted rom-com’s, but this was a Sight & Sound production (their first actual movie) and based on Henry W Longfellow’s life (true story). There were a few very jarring and sad places but I thought it was very good. I have to say I didn’t really know anything about his life, and I will never hear the carol ‘I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day’ again without thinking of his story and his faith.

A few more decorations —

December 2 – As a youth, who was your favorite movie star? Why? “Clark Gable – I didn’t see many movies but loved ‘Gone with the Wind.’ He seemed to romantic!!! Gene Autry & Roy Rogers were some others I enjoyed. I liked them because they were always helping the ‘underdog.’ “

Calendar inspiration – Whenever you lose your way, look for meaningful guidance from others who’ve traveled that road before you.

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TOMORROW December 3rd is:

• National Roof Over Your Head Day
• National Play Outside Day
• Skywarn Recognition Day 

I am thankful to have a roof over my head – but as windy as it’s been I am also thankful it didn’t blow away! I will not be playing outside tomorrow – I am going to a Christmas luncheon at Camp Christian tomorrow. I hope you do something very fun with your Saturday. God bless…

Here it is, December. Christmas month. I am done decorating and have one more type of cookie to bake. As for gifts, not nearly done! But my list is much smaller than when I was working full time so I should be able to handle it ok. I had a lot of little errands to do after work today. Had to make a small deposit at the bank. Stopped at WOW Outlet looking for something I did NOT find, but that’s ok. Then dropped off a few things at the Goodwill store. I like to keep cleaning things out. Now that I made up my mind to pass along the treadmill I’m impatient!

I popped into Westmoreland Mall and got a few bagels, and had one for lunch once I got home. But from there I went to Walmart and replenished some food items that were used up over the Thanksgiving holiday. I had a cinnamon crunch – it was fresh and crunchy and really good!

Here are a few more areas of decorations. I finished the tree last night and took a picture with the overhead lights off and one with them on. The only thing left to do it switch the bath soup from a bouquet to Piney Spruce for the winter.

Kathy and I are going to see I HEARD THE BELLS movie at Westmoreland Mall Cinema tonight. I’ll post comments tomorrow. Gen just called from New York to chat – it’s always wonderful to hear from my New York friend. Her newest grandchild is ‘due’ tomorrow, so Chris, Lauren, and Jack are very excited. Jack wants to name the baby Snow Shovel since it’s a winter baby. Not sure that will fly with the parents…

December 1 – More favorites: “Bible Verse – This is the day the Lord has made. Let us rejoice and be glad in it. Psalm 118:24. Also Philippians 4:11-13. Pastime – I like to read. I like to go to flea markets and garage sales. Flowers to weed and shrubs to grow & bloom.” I can see that I am indeed my mother’s daughter!

Calendar inspiration from Snoopy – So thankful for medical teams who take care of us!

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TOMORROW December 2nd is:

• National Fritters Day
• National Mutt Day
• Special Education Day 
• Faux Fur Friday
• National Bartender Day 

Tazz was a mutt. He was an amazing dog and I miss him often. Tomorrow Di is coming over for lunch and we are making a pizza and watching a Peanuts movie! Have a wonderful day whatever you celebrate. God bless…

I got up early for a Wednesday, and was totally done with cleaning and laundry by 3pm! I did take time out in the middle of the day to have an argument with a recorded line! I was trying to refill a prescription through an online pharmacy and it wasn’t working out. Finally went online through Aetna and figured it out. Whew. I wasn’t made for that kind of stress.

Before I forget (and I posted on facebook) I am parting ways with my treadmill. It’s a NordicTrack and in excellent shape! If you are interested just get in touch with me. Terms negotiable.

Last night before I went to bed I was able to set up and decorate my Williamsburg tree. All the ornaments are collectables from CWF except the pine cones and little gold bells. The thing was — grrr – that it’s a pre-lit tree and half the lights quit! I had extra so it looks great, but I’m sad that it quit working.

This morning after I cleaned the upstairs I put the linen tablecloth on the kitchen table – I bought that before I was married – probably in about 1969. I guess it’s vintage! I love it even though it’s retro.

Bible Study starts back up tonight so I’ll be done with chores and ready to go by then – on to heaven! (Or the study there-of!)

November 30 – More favorites: “TV Show – no TV when I was at home. Later in the 1950’s I enjoyed the Andy Griffith Show, Perry Mason (he was her ‘heart throb’!), and Day of Discovery. Song – 1) People will Say We’re in Love; 2) I’ll hold you in my Heart til I can Hold you in my Arms (Edy Arnold!) 3) You’re Something Special to Me. Color – Soft tones of brown. Now that I’m older I like mauve & deep pinks.”

Calendar Inspiration – Change is often subtle and hard to see. Awareness is key so pay attention!

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TOMORROW December 1st is:

• Bifocals at the Monitor Liberation Day
• Day With(out) Art Day
• National Eat a Red Apple Day
• National Pie Day
• Rosa Parks Day

Tomorrow is the first day of the last month of 2022. This year has been a crazy ride but here we are. Have a great day and celebrate! God bless…

Work was light, so I came home before lunch and started on the window clings. I finished up before I ate, and then moved on to the tree. As customary, I watched White Christmas and The House Without a Christmas Tree while I decorated it.

I still have the icicles to put on, and the little Williamsburg tree to put up in the living room, but not sure that’s going to happen tonight. I find I can’t keep going all day and late into the evening with these projects like I used to! And it’s only the 29th, so I have lots of time.

Once the tree was up I set up the little snow scene. I love all those little pieces and houses and trees. I just wonder how many times a day I will have to set one of them up again after they wobble over!

Added just a bit of greenery to my little milk stool.

November 29 – Tell your all time favorites: “Food – Dippy egg sandwiches, pizza, home made root beer, apple dumplings. Book – When a small child I loved the ‘old’ first grade reader. Now I read mysteries & inspirational books. I also love history. My favorite books and stories are the ones you write. Movie – Gone with the Wind; Sound of Music, White Christmas.”

Calendar inspiration – Imagination brings magic to the mundane and makes it special!

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TOMORROW November 30th is:

• Computer Security Day
• National Mason Jar Day
• National Meth Awareness Day
• National Mississippi Day
• National Mousse Day
• National Personal Space Day
• Stay Home Because You’re Well Day
• National Package Protection Day

Mason Jars have their own day? Hmmm. That’s ok; they are cool. Tomorrow is finish the tree and clean this really dirty house. Have a great Wednesday. God bless….