Rege and I had one of our typical morning conversations today. Barry comes in later since he’s still recovering, and Kevin is in Hawaii. So there was just the two of us. I did have several titles and a few other issues to deal with today. I txt Joe and he didn’t have anything — and anyway, he was off this morning. So I was home before 11am. I changed clothes and cut the grass, weed-whacked, used the outside blower, cut dead stalks, and pulled some weeds.

Mike P called and needed something done TODAY – so I got cleaned up about 2:30pm and ran over there. Since I was out and semi-sane, I drove over to L&L; haven’t been there in a few weeks. I found a cute little holiday board with a snowflake. And since I’m posting ‘new’ items, here is the magnet I got at the Flax Scutching (it sort of matches the cover picture of my Fields of Blue book!), and Beth gave me a star for my kitchen.

I talked to Teresa for a bit – we hadn’t talked since we went to Dan Rice Days the beginning of August. Her beloved cat passed away last Monday – she has her ‘remains’ in a beautiful wooden box with Zoomie’s paw prints on it. The vet’s office also made plaster of Paris prints of Zommie’s paws, too. Zoomie was almost 18 years old; that’s a great life for a cat.

We also talked about her upcoming trip with WOMEN TRAVELING TOGETHER – she’s going to Charleston and Savannah. I sent her some notes about what we liked when we were down there last year, and a few pictures. This was one of our favorite tours!

September 20 – Tell about your worst report card. “When I was sick for 3 weeks and didn’t get all the make-up school work completed. After I made up what was needed the teacher gave me my report card again with the grades filled in.” Three weeks is a lot of school to miss; that was a very compassionate teacher!

Calendar inspiration is from Peanuts today:

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TOMORROW September 21st is:

• National Chai Day
• National New York Day
• National Pecan Cookie Day

My friend Di likes Chai tea; Kathy loves pecan tassies. And I think New York is a pretty nice state. Have a great day whatever you celebrate! God bless…

Kelly left a little before 9am; I left for work after she left. I always hate to see my family leave. We enjoyed our time kid-free (but we DID miss the boys!). It’s very rare to have time together with just us. She brought my mums up (that I ordered) and was so excited that they survived her care! I’ll plant them when they are totally done blooming.

After work I went to the dentist to get my crown put on the implant. As you could almost expect – did not go well! Even through the tooth was tagged with the correct shade, it was not compatible with the other teeth! So now he has to re-order. I have the temporary one in and it will take some time to get used to. I haven’t had a tooth in that space for a pretty long time!

So finally – Skunk Hollow Bonfire at Beth’s! It was such a wonderful evening. All ten of us were there. Harold built the fire and kept it going for a while, then we took over. He also took some pictures for us. It was sunny and comfortable for the first part of the evening, and we could sit around the table and eat and chat. We can cover any topic of conversation from fender-benders (poor Beth!) to health issues to politics (which we try to avoid!)

There is always so much food. We had hot dogs (of course) and Harold heated sauerkraut inside on the stove for us. There was mountain pie fixings, and everything for some’mores. Crackers, chips, desserts, cider — M&M’s! Humus and carrots.

When we had eaten our fill we moved over to the fire pit (but carried snack plates with us!). Once the sun went down it was much cooler, and we bundled in jackets and blankets. I read my essay on flowers (each SH girl was a different flower and I researched their characteristics!), and then we went around the circle and shared updates in our lives and families. It was about 10:30pm when things broke up. The hour drive home was comfortable, as Kathy and I could chat and relive the evening as the moon followed us all the way. Love these girls, and so blessed to have them in my life and share precious time with each other. Already looking forward to the Christmas event at Colleen’s!

September 19 – If you were ever in a fight, tell about it. “I would fight with my sister Hazel. Dad made us put on Jim’s boxing gloves & fight each other until we decided we didn’t like to fight anymore.” Sounds effective to me!

Calendar inspiration – By helping others achieve their goals, we often achieve our own goals as well.

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TOMORROW September 20th is:

• National Care for Kids Day
• National Fried Rice Day
• National Pepperoni Pizza Day
• National Punch Day
• National String Cheese Day
• National Voter Registration Day
• National IT Professionals Day

Well, we had pepperoni pizza both Sunday and Monday – so I’ll just REMEMBER it! Other than work, tomorrow holds no obligations! How cool is THAT!!! Have a blessed day…

Kelly and I left the house at a little before 8am, and arrived in Stahlstown with time to spare. It was cool in the mountains, but we were comfortable with hoodies. The Stahlstown United Methodist Church hosted the service and the minister was very engaging. Her message was ‘Jesus and Mr. Rogers’ – which if you couldn’t guess, it was the good Samaritan. The ‘neighbor.’ She had a short children’s message before the main message, and there were three hymns. It’s the first time in as long as I can remember when I’ve attended an outdoor church service. Very blessed.

We set up my book table outside the Flax Scutching building. Marilee spent a lot of time popping by our table to chat, and a friend that works in the Ligonier Library (Shirley) came over and talked several times. My good friend Ed Kelemen was there, too – he is very successful! Kelly made Energy Balls (which contain ground Flax seed) and we shared with Marilee, Shirley, and Ed. We took turns walking through the tents and checking out the booths. We also had food vouchers for lunch, plus before we left we split a funnel cake. I bought cider so I can have hot cider for breakfast a few times.

The views were wonderful coming down off the mountain. It was a beautiful drive home. We ordered Jioio’s pizza for supper, and that was the perfect ending to our day!

September 18 – Describe your typical school day outfit. “When in high school I wore skirts & blouses, all homemade. Saddle shoes were popular & then penny loafers. I polished my shoes often.”

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TOMORROW September 19th is:

• National Butterscotch Pudding Day
• Talk Like a Pirate Day

Tomorrow is ‘getting the crown on my implant’ day. I don’t think I’d make a convincing pirate. Have a great week! God bless…

I was happy to laze around this morning and take my time. I changed and washed bed sheets, had breakfast, then decided to check out a garage sale up on Mohawk (where I used to live). Turns out it was the house right across the street. It was nice to talk to Edith and her family who was there helping out. There wasn’t much left – which was ok with me – but it was a good visit. I think they are one of the last families from the original little group of neighbors.

After that I went to Lowe’s to pick up something recommended (suggested!) at my doctor’s appointment. When I came out the Boy Scouts were selling popcorn and pretzels. I agreed to pretzels without realizing how expensive they are now. But it was a good cause so I didn’t fret – at least not for very long! I felt I might need to re-finance my house…

I went to Mary’s picnic – it was a nice group. I knew two of the people there, in addition to Poppy the dog and Mary. She had snacks and desserts and drinks. We were ‘christening’ her new patio. It’s a beautiful space, with a nice cabana and two huge umbrellas. There was a good breeze and lots of shade. She has a really nice back yard – pretty, level, and welcoming! I loved the trees.

Kelly and I went to Gabe’s. We both found a few things to try on, but when we got back to the dressing rooms they were closed. We didn’t want to risk purchasing anything because at Gabe’s you can’t actually trust sizes. Bummer.

September 17 – Who was the best teacher you ever had? Why? “Mrs. Shaffer. She had a way of making everything so interesting. I learned a lot that helped me pass the test to go into high school.”

Calendar inspiration – It’s the spirit of fun that makes a picnic special!

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TOMORROW September 18th is:

• Air Force Birthday
• National Cheeseburger Day
• National HIV/AIDS and Aging Awareness Day
• Wife Appreciation Day 

Tomorrow I will be in Stahlstown at the Flax Festival. If you can, come up and see us! It’s a really nice event. Hope to see you – God bless!

PS – I will post the BONFIRE pictures either tomorrow or Monday!! Stay tuned!

It’s already after midnight, so I’m not posting anything about my day. I’ll catch up on Saturday! We had the bonfire at Beth’s for the Skunk Hollow cousins – and it was a wonderful evening. The moon watched over us all evening and followed us home!

September 16 – Did you ever have a crush on a teacher? “When I was in 2nd grade I liked Jay Dilts. He was kind and very nice to me.”

Calendar inspiration – Be kind and generous with everyone, every day!

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TOMORROW September 17th is:

• National Apple Dumpling Day
• Constitution Day and Citizenship Day
• National Monte Cristo Day
• National Professional House Cleaners Day
• Boys’ and Girls’ Club Day for Kids
• National CleanUp Day
• National Dance Day
• National Gymnastics Day
• Puppy Mill Awareness Day
• Responsible Dog Ownership Day

So tomorrow – clean up, clean up, everybody clean up! And Dance while you’re at it! Enjoy your Saturday, and indeed, be kind to your dog; be responsible! God bless…

As usual for a Thursday I started out in Jeannette, then had a doctor’s appointment. Since changing providers in September, I had some updating of my files to do. Dr. Cole is so nice, and I always appreciate his insight and encouragement. I had to change some appointments and set up a few new ones, but finally got it all lined up.

From there I went to the pharmacy to pick up a new prescription – but it wasn’t there yet. Turns out it was emailed to my previous pharmacy, and it took some phone calls and some twisting and turning to get everything cleared up. Once we got the records changed from the old pharmacy to the new one, I discovered that the new one (CVS) was trying to refill all the meds on my record! Again, it took some phone calls but got that squared away, too. I believe all is on track now, at least for the moment.

Greensburg didn’t have any deals, so I headed home for a late lunch. I also made a big pot of cream of potato soup, and had a cup just now before starting this. Kathy stopped to pick something up and we chatted for a bit – but that is my very ordinary, non-descript day! We’ll see if I can beef it up for tomorrow!

September 15 – What teacher did you dislike the most? Why? “Mayador McMillia was a very un-fair teacher. He was disliked by all the parents, as well as the students. I was in 5th or 6th grade when he taught a Davis School.”

Calendar inspiration – Enjoy everyday activities while anticipating your next adventure. – I guess that would be my day; I’m anticipating tomorrow’s Skunk Hollow bonfire at Beth’s with all the girls!

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TOMORROW September 16th is:

• Mayflower Day
• National Cinnamon Raisin Bread Day
• National Guacamole Day
• National Play-Doh Day
• National Step Family Day
• National Working Parents Day
• National Tradesmen Day
• National POW/MIA Recognition Day

All parents that I know work – either outside or AT the home. Something to celebrate! Play-Doh? No — not for me! I’ll celebrate my sweet cousins! God bless…

Even though I always clean the house on Wednesday if possible, it’s still a lazy start to the day. I can take my time over breakfast and do little side chores as I come across them. I can hurry if I need to; today I didn’t need to.

Di sent me a txt from a mutual friend from high school who is in route to New Jersey from Chicago. Pictures of the deer at their campsite; a beautiful sunset from a mountaintop site. It’s fun to share pictures and adventures of friends!

This evening was the volunteer appreciation picnic at Hanna’s Town. There were 72 people! That’s the most we’ve had, at least in my experience. Several board members attended, plus the paid staff, plus volunteers and guests. The meal was catered and all the food was good – wine and spirits were flowing freely but everyone was sensible and having a great time. Louise gave out several fun awards (best popcorn salesperson at events, honorary bear director – he chased a bear out of the parking lot, etc.) and we paid honor to the three volunteers that were dedicated to the site that had passed away during the past 18 months. It was a very nice evening.

September 14 – What was your most embarrassing school moment? “I guess I was daydreaming when the teacher told us to get out our tablet and pencil for our spelling test. When she went to collect our papers I didn’t have any to give her. She left one of the older girls give me the spelling words so I wouldn’t get a zero grade.”

Calendar Inspiration – We grow and learn the most at home among our family – those lessons last forever!

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TOMORROW September 15th is:

• Greenpeace Day
• National Cheese Toast Day
• National Creme de Menthe Day
• National Double Cheeseburger Day
• National Felt Hat Day
• National Linguine Day
• National Neonatal Nurses Day
• National Online Learning Day
• National Tackle Kids Cancer Day
• National Pawpaw Day  

Lots to celebrate tomorrow. I’m leaning toward the double cheeseburger. But then, I do love to learn new things, and these days the best way to do that is online. Have a happy Thursday. God bless…

For some reason I had another ‘couldn’t fall asleep’ night. Getting bloodwork is not stressful or worrisome so not sure what the problem was. I know the only way I could stay awake was to keep busy all day!

I walked into the Quick Draw lab at 8:48am, and there wasn’t another person waiting. I think that’s the first time that ever happened. I didn’t have to wait at all. The technician was very good – I didn’t feel it at all. And I only have a small bruise on my arm – about the size of a dime. That’s amazing too!

Just found out that Sherree (Jen’s mom) had her surgery yesterday morning. Not sure of the details, but she’s home and resting. If you can, take a quick minute and pray for her comfort and healing. Wishing you the best, Sherree!

I went to Greensburg directly after my bloodwork, then down to Jeannette. They needed to pick up a car at Igloo (repair shop) so I followed Barry down and drove him back. They are still a little short staffed. Then I buzzed down to Irwin and picked up a stack of greeting cards and splurged on an afternoon snack!

I concentrated on outside work this afternoon. There’s always something to do in the yard and gardens. I cut the grass, weed-whacked, finally spread the Weed and Feed, then blew the walks and driveway clean. That was the whole afternoon. It was sunny and beautiful but much cooler than it has been. And that was my day! I’ll probably iron and write out some greeting cards later.

September 13 – Name the schools that you went to. “8 years to Davis School. Plumville High School for 2 years.”

Calendar Inspiration – Be mindful of the good things and quiet times. Count your blessings!

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TOMORROW September 14th is:

• National Cream Filled Donut Day
• National Eat a Hoagie Day
• National Live Creative Day
• National Parents Day Off
• National Sober Day 
• National Virginia Day

Oooo. I could go to Virginia. I still qualify as a parent even though my kids are grown and on their own, so I could take the day off. But wait. I’m ALWAYS off on Wednesday! What a sobering thought. God bless!

I definitely crossed things off my list today. I worked in Jeannette, and since Kevin was working alone this morning I stuck around for a little bit and watched the phones while he picked up a car at the shop. I stopped at the bank on the way to Greensburg, and also stopped to get the call-in number to make an appointment for bloodwork (routine). Greensburg, then home.

After I grabbed a quick, light lunch I changed clothes and did a load of laundry. I was going to put Weed and Feed on the lawn but it’s recommended to have dry weather for 24 hours. I barely let that thought cross my mind when it started to drizzle. So I switched gears – the sun came out and I put Round Up on some of the weeded spots on the hill. Thankfully it didn’t rain for several hours after I finished that!

After folding the clothes from the dryer, I lugged everything upstairs and tackled the oven. It was really dirty, and it’s a job I dislike. Since I was meeting friends for dinner I figured that would be my reward for hard work!

I met Liz, April, and Joelyn at Panera Bread at the Mall for dinner. Liz, April and I had bread-bowl soups, and Joelyn had an Asian Chicken Salad. We got there at five, and we were still talking non-stop (lots of laughs, too!) when they started locking up at 8pm! What a wonderful evening with three special ladies. I always feel like my soul has been fed after we’ve been together. We have such different life situations, and we are from four different decades, yet we connect so well. I hope we don’t wait quite so long to get together again! It was a great night!

September 12 – Tell about a teacher’s pet. “In my first year of high school, Opal McMillan was the teacher’s pet in our home room. She was SMART, pretty, and her father was one of the richest people in town.” Sounds like a nice Nellie Olsen!

Calendar Inspiration – comes from Snoopy today!

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TOMORROW September 13th is:

• National Bald Is Beautiful Day
• National Celiac Disease Awareness Day
• National Kids Take Over The Kitchen Day
• National Peanut Day
• Uncle Sam Day
• Day of the Programmer
  
• National Ants on a Log Day

Wonder if Uncle Sam Day is connected to Dan Rice. Peanuts? Really?? Tomorrow for me will be bloodwork day. Thankfully I have an early appointment! Have a happy day. God bless…

Mary was already at church when I got there early – we both were gathering up the last few items we needed from the craft room to finish the lesson. Max and Gracie were really good; very engaged in the lesson of Putting Jesus First. They loved the paper plate clock that had moveable hands: Take Time for Jesus! To emphasize the theme, I took a plastic cup and put a big rock in it. Fit perfectly. Then I took the rock out, and had some green tinted rice. They each put spoonfuls of rice in the empty cup, saying things that they loved doing. But then — the rock wouldn’t fit in the cup! No room for Jesus! We dumped the rice back into the bowl, put the Jesus rock back in, and then poured the rice in on top – and it filtered around the rock and fit! They thought it was magic – but it did show that if you put Jesus first everything else will fit, too!

I finally got to the grocery store and bought what I needed except for the food for the bonfire on Friday night. It needs to be purchased fresh. I did stop at Gabe’s and bought two (Opps!!!) blankets: A fall one and a Halloween one. I had birthday money tucked away that I forgot about, and it was exactly the right amount. So now I’m excited for my new fall, cozy blankets. Especially with the cooler weather coming on.

After lunch I did a load of laundry and then mixed up cinnamon streusel muffins (with a few chocolate chips tossed in!). I found the kitchen curtain/shade that will match, but I need to get Kelly to help me finish the order. She’ll be up Sunday! Felt like a busy/lazy day!

I gleaned a few thoughts from Jerry’s message this morning. First is our quote for the day, listed below! Second I learned about redwood trees and the lesson they teach us. Redwoods can grow to be between 300 and 400 feet tall. But their root system only goes down about 6 or 8 feet. However to they stay UP? The secret is that their roots go OUT about 100 feet in all directions, and they intertwine with the roots of the trees around them, which makes them strong, tall, straight and steady. We need to take that lesson to heart, and realize that we can support and encourage each other and withstand anything that comes our way!

September 11 – Tell about the naughtiest kid in school. “In our one room school we had several who kept the teacher alert. Eugene Clowser got in trouble A LOT. Blain Cunningham was the one that ‘tormented’ Ruth Sink (Martin) and me.”

September 11 – We will Never Forget…

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TOMORROW September 12th is:

• National Chocolate Milkshake Day
• National Day of Encouragement
• National Hug & High 5 Day
• National Just One Human Family
• National Report Medicare Fraud Day
• National Video Games Day
• National Boss/Employee Exchange Day 

I love McDonald’s chocolate milkshake – and today’s sermon was on the importance of encouragement. Not a fan of Video Games (Don’t tell Logan and Chase that!!). I would not want to exchange my bosses. I really like them! I’ll stay put! Have a great week. God bless…