Back on track this morning – treadmill, work, laundry. I went over after lunch and helped Jen clean the trailer. Chrissy did her room; the bathroom is done; I did the master bedroom. I haven’t wiped down walls in a very long time and I feel it in my neck and shoulders! After I post this I plan to take a hot shower…

When I came back (after taking a load down to the house), I went to work rearranging the Flag room. Not sure this is the final arrangement but it’s good for now. I have to leave ample room for the trundle to pull out. So really can’t put anything too much on the long wall. I like it for now. Just have to wait for the final test – how the boys do with their game systems! (Pictures below)

I am going over to Kathy’s to watch the second in the series of The Gilded Age. We really liked the first one. I’m excited! And that’s enough excitement for one day!

Actually – I did have other excitement! I got an email for my author friend Liz, and she was ‘impressed’ (I guess) with the comments I sent her about The Abbey House. So instead of being an ARC reader (Advanced Reader Copy), I will be a Beta reader. I will get a copy BEFORE it is published and read for content, coherence, grammar, spelling, etc. I’m very excited! I am finally using a skill associated with the Masters program from Seton Hill! The next book will be ready the end of February.

January 31 – What did you use to go sledding down a hill in the snow? “We had a regular ‘bought’ sled called the “American Flyer.” We also had a wooden bobsled that was jointed. Sometimes we all rode down on a large piece of sheet iron. We had lots of wrecks & spills but no serious accidents.”

Yesterday’s vacation destination was South Korea! Picture posted was a rock mountain – not sure if it has a name. Some things to do in South Korea are Palaces, Seongsan Sunrise Peak, National History Museum, Jagalchi Fish Market and local markets, Jinhae Cherry Blossom Festival, Lotte World & Magic Island, Bukchon Hanok Village, Exotic food, Yeosu Hikes, Water scenes, Island Getaways, Beaches.

Calendar inspiration is – everything we do lingers in the minds and memories of others. if you do your best every day, your good efforts will continue on.

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TOMORROW February 1 is:

• National Baked Alaska Day
• National Dark Chocolate Day
• National Freedom Day (Freedom From Slavery)
• National Get Up Day
• National Serpent Day
• National Texas Day
• February International Days

Ooooh. Dark Chocolate. I’m all for that! And I do plan to get up in the morning. Whatever you choose, enjoy! 🙂 God bless…

It’s still cold but an improvement from past days. My car is a total mess – ice and dirt. It’s still too cold to wash it but I think better days are coming!

The plan is that the people who want the bed are coming after lunch, and then I’m going to run trips to the new house with Nate and Jen. I’m itching to get started and to wait an hour is difficult!!! I need to learn patience – but I want to do it quickly!

I’ll recap yesterday’s beef day. We stopped and got Peyton breakfast on the way, and snapped a picture of the Blue Ridge Mountains. I love Pennsylvania! Once we hit Smicksburg, the rolling fields were covered with snow and the vistas were beautiful, as always. Kelly was snapping photos of Amish farms and buggies. We even got into an Amish traffic jam! But it untangled fairly quickly.

Between Kelly & I we got a bunch of photos. It was so fun all of us working together, and having Aunt Joan and Uncle Clifford sitting there on their chairs, observing and once in a while slipping in to help. Jason knew that Nate and Dave had it under control, and pretty much left them handle the whole operation. Peyton was an ‘intern’, watching and learning the entire process, seeing what his steer Fluffy will end up as after the fair. The experience was great for him and once he writes this up for his 4-H project he’ll be set! Between his help and interest in the beef process and helping at Jen’s Ninth Life Rescue for 8 hours on Friday evening, he’s got a lot of community service credits under his belt! And he worked hard and did a great job. What a fine young man my grandson is growing into. Thanks, Peyton!

Here are beef pictures:

January 30 – Tell about the worst winter storm that you can remember as a child. “I don’t remember the year or month but the snow got so deep no cars or trucks could travel the back roads. My dad walked over the hill to Beyer and got enough sugar & tobacco to last until the snow melted enough so the horse could travel with the wooden farm sled. It was slow going but Dad could get flour on it. We had everything else we needed.”

Yesterday’s vacation destination was Ireland. Sarah and Lynn Pelc, Lisa Carter Siders, and Ed Kelemen have all made at least one trip to Ireland and brought back beautiful pictures and lots of wonderful memories. There is so much to see in this beautiful country, not limited to Haunted castles, Riverdance, water falls, rope bridges, mysterious beaches, Newgrange (Winter Solstice), Guinness storehouse, cemeteries, festivals, Spike Island prison, Dingle peninsula, Ring of Kerry scenic drive, hiking, boat trips, fishing. Yesterday’s photo was Cliffs of Moher. 

Calendar inspiration is Woodstock.

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TOMORROW January 31 is:

• National Backward Day
• National Hot Chocolate Day
• National Inspire Your Heart With Art Day
• National Bubble Wrap Day

Bubble Wrap – funny how something so entirely ‘silly’ can be useful and fun at the same time. I never wake up in the morning thinking, ‘Oh, it’s bubble wrap day!’ Choose you joy! God bless…

Today was the long-anticipated beef day! Kelly, Peyton, Kathy and I headed to Smicksburg about 8:30am. Jonathan & Olivia Pelc and Sarah Pelc arrived (they live in Philly) right after we did; next Greg & Lynn (Scottdale), and then Nate, Dave and Autmn. Jason and Trent brought the first quarter of beef over and we jumped right in. I will post pictures and stories tomorrow. It’s late and I want to get a good night’s sleep. Just made myself the freshest hamburger that could possibly be made! Ground into ground meat at about 5:30pm; at 9pm in a skillet on my stove! Yum! So grateful for the day – not only for freezers full of beef for seven families, but for the friendships and family and fun.

January 29 – What was the dumbest stunt ever pulled by you and a brother or sister? “My sister & my brother & myself decided to play in the barn because it was raining. Hazel & I were to pretend we were groundhogs. When my bother Jim whistled we were to stick our heads up out of the hay & Jim would click his BB Gun and say “I got you.” A BB was stuck in his gun & when he pulled the trigger he hit Hazel on her forehead just above her eye. We never played that game again.” I hope not!

Yesterday’s vacation destination was Erie, PA! In the years that we have gone up there – several even before Mom & John married, we have had amazing adventures and shared lots of fun. It’s great for a weekend or even a day trip – but you’d never do all the cool things in a day trip! Picture posted was Ashbury Woods outdoor playground.  Here’s a list:  Fishing charters, Presque Isle State Park – Beach 11!  Bike and skating and walking trail.  Waldameer & Water World, Erie Zoo (Nate loved the white tigers!), Mini golf, Maritime Museum – especially when the Flagship Niagra was in dock.  Scallywags Pirate Adventure, Splash Lagoon, Tom Ridge Environmental Center, Specialty and gift shops, Port Erie Tower, Millcreek Mall and West Erie Plaza (shopping), Children’s Museum, Perry Monument, Trail riding (horses), Downtown Erie, Candlelight Ghost Walks and Vampire Tours, Breweries, Speedway, Library, North Pier Light, Sailing, Art Museum, Arboretum, Firefighters Historical Museum, Hagen History Center & Museum, Library Park, Escape Game, Food tours (chocolate!), Biking.  Every few years there is the Tall Ships Erie event when all the ships come into Erie’s ports (Teresa and Mom & I went one time – It’s worth the weekend!).

Calendar Inspiration is: Friendships thrive on steady effort and nurturing.  Today, send a note to an old friend just to say hello.  Both of you will benefit.

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TOMORROW January 30 is:

• National Croissant Day

Well, time to be done for the day – tomorrow is another day! Have a wonderful day – God Bless!

Thursday was very cold but sunny and bright. Even though it was below zero, lots of snow piles and icy patches melted off. I did do the treadmill (still sub-zero outside!), then went to Jeannette store. There was lots to do, and they put me through the paces. Several strange twists and some confusing paperwork. But nothing is always easy so we worked through all the issues. It was a longer morning than I’ve had in a quite a while, and by the time I picked up pretzels and bananas at Walmart it was almost 1:30pm until I got home and could eat lunch.

I decided to make a cover for the body pillow instead of just putting a throw blanket over it. I also had a piece of material stashed away for years and years, and decided to share my huge cuddle pillow and covered it, too. That way when the boys are playing their video games or someone is just watching TV in the ‘new’ flag room, they will have comfy pillows to snuggle up with. I also put a few white vinyl star stickers on the bed frame. That is, after all, part of the theme of the room!

The dentist office called me and if I wait until April 1st or later my insurance will kick in, and I’ll save about 60% on my out-of-pocket. So that’s great news! Bad news is the appointment is the day before Good Friday. It will be in the middle of a busy week, but that’s ok. Get ‘er done!

Hallmark movies are in the background, and the dehumidifier is humming beside me. I have a little microwave bunny rice bag type comfort on my chair to keep me warm. It gets kind of cold downstairs.

I heard from the vendor where I bought my flooring. They are going to open a claim about a professional cleaning (if that’s an option) or maybe replacing the flooring. I really don’t want to do that. It will be an incredible amount of work clearing out this room! Their representative was very nice. The floor is dry now, with no more water seepage. And regardless of how it looks, it’s clean. One step at a time!!

So now it’s Friday. I got up and shoveled the driveway and the walks, but my friend Robin had to rearrange the pickup day again for the bed. Between work and ice and snow and school cancellations, they couldn’t make it. Nate changed moving day to Sunday afternoon – almost everything but the furniture is out, and they don’t have much that they are taking. I’m learning patience, waiting on these guys!

So after breakfast I started laundry and then mixed up the brownies for tomorrow’s Beef Day. Now I plan to make a few rice bags, just in case someone needs extra help staying warm through these chilly days. Right now it’s 30* which is a huge improvement from below zero! Beach Boys Christmas is playing in the background (I never get tired of my Beach Boys, regardless of the season!).

Peyton’s practice got cancelled so they are on their way – about 5 hours ahead of original schedule. That is perfect because Peyton is going to help Nathan finish up some drywall at the house. Kelly and I will finish up prepping for tomorrow. So I’ll close this for today, and pick up on Saturday night. This post is long enough already, anyway!

January 28 – What did you and your brothers or sisters fight about the most? “Whose turn it was to take the milk and butter to the springhouse. We had no electric so we used the drain in the springhouse to keep our food cold. 3 times a day we had to make 2 trips, over to get the food and then take it back.” Don’t we take a lot for granted?

Yesterday’s vacation destination was Amish country – Berlin Ohio. The picture posted was Amish & Mennonite Heritage center. Some things to do in Berlin are Amish Country Theatre, Antique Mall, Trading Post – LOTS of antique shops.  Amish Country Store, Christmas store, Heritage Village Shops, Fudge & Popcorn Company, Fabric Outlet, Quilt Shop, Catalpa Trading Co, Escape Room, Walnut Creek Cheese, Soap shop, Gospel Book Store, Country Craft Cupboard, General Store, Thrift Store, Primitive Porch.  So much to see and do! Sol’s is one of our favorite places, and there is a huge Amish buffet about 8 miles out of town, right before getting back on the interstate, that is perfect for dinner before heading home.

Calendar inspiration is : Make your home a welcome refuge from the cold – then snuggle in and enjoy!

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I just found out that Beth is not feeling well – praying for you, Beth. For your comfort and healing and quick recovery. If you need anything let me know – I’ll be praying!

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TOMORROW January 29 is:

• National Corn Chip Day
• National Puzzle Day
• National Seed Swap Day 

Saturday for us is BEEF DAY! Heading to Smicksburg to cut up, grind, and wrap an entire cow! There will be 15 of us, I think. Many hands make light work! God bless …

My lovely daughter is celebrating a birthday today! Since the day she was born, she has known her mind, followed her heart, and threw herself wholeheartedly into any project that was worth her time and passion. She loves and follows the Lord in all she does. She gives endlessly, to the point of sacrifice and exhaustion, and asks for little in return. Well, she’d really like to have a HOUSE~!!!~~~ Happy birthday, sweet daughter! Love you and am so proud of you!

January 27 – Did you ever have an imaginary friend? “Yes. I had a friend I called Elmer. It was long before Elmer Fudd became famous.”

Yesterday’s vacation destination was Lake Tahoe. Picture posted was the M.S. Dixie II paddling its way past all the big attractions like Emerald Bay, Fannette Island, and Vikingsholm Castle. Other things to do at Lake Tahoe – Parasailing, cross country skiing, Watch the Salmon spawn at Taylor Creek, Ski through Sierra at Tahoe’s old forest, History on Emerald Bay, Heavenly Ridge Rider mountain coaster, Autumn in Hope Valley, Wild flower walkabout, snowmobile, paddleboard yoga, golf, hiking, beaches and boating, fishing, hot air balloon rides, Mt. Tallac.

Calendar inspiration – You are always in the driver’s seat regarding your daily actions and reactions.  With kindness as a goal, your path will be well lit. 

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Tomorrow January 28 is:

• National Gift of the Ladybug Day *
• National Blueberry Pancake Day
• Data Privacy Day
• National Have Fun At Work Day
• National Kazoo Day
• National Big Wig Day

I don’t work tomorrow – except to help Nate & Jen move. Ladybug day sound fun! Maybe that! I don’t have a Kazoo. I’ll just go with the flow. And again, a wonderful, blessed, healthy, happy, precious year ahead for my Kelly! God bless!

I could not fall asleep last night. It was like every crazy question I ever had about life kept running through my head. It was close to 2am the last time I looked at the clock (I know, Deb – I shouldn’t be looking at the clock!). Needless to say I wasn’t a fan of getting up this morning. But it’s a little after 9am and the plumbers are already working on the pipe, so good thing I got up early.

I dived into cleaning once the project was done. Everything is all fixed. We left the water turned off to the outside spigot until spring. I was halfway through cleaning and ready to grab lunch when Jen called that they were going to take a few loads from the trailer to the house. So I bundled up and went over – stuffed all 3 vehicles as full as we safely could and drove them to the house. Then came home and finished cleaning. But the two rooms are coming along at the house – First three photos are the progression of the room for the cats, and the other one is the beginning of framing out a space for Sherree. It’s coming along!

January 26 – Did you ever see a President or Vice-President in person? “NO” Then she drew a frowny face!

Yesterday’s vacation destination was Florence Italy! I was never there, but friends Bill Smail & Rick Kozar were there once and brought me back a Snoopy in a gondola.

Things to do in Florence and surrounding areas could be: Wine tasting and vineyards, art and history museums, landscapes, hiking, wine and cheese tours, city walking tours, Hidden secret tours, renaissance tours, horseback riding through wine country, monuments, day trips to Pisa and Piazza dei Miracoli,  day trip to Venice, biking, hot air balloon over Tuscany, shopping and fashion. Cabaret shows, river cruise.

Calendar inspiration for today is: The world offers many highs and lows –But Home is where we can even out after a hectic day. 

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TOMORROW January 27 is:

• National Chocolate Cake Day

Not much inspiration there! Create your own special day! And have fun while you’re at it! God bless…

I didn’t need the treadmill this morning because I spent over an hour cleaning the driveway. The snow was frozen and heavy, and I had trouble getting it up in some places. It was all melted off by the time I got home, which is good since we will be living in the Tundra for the next few days! It’s still clear as I type.

The mattresses were here when I got home from the dentist. (Implant is scheduled for March 29th – first available appointment!) I was very concerned when I first saw them, because they were rolled up in a box.

By the time I opened them up, it was like an inflatable raft (although no inflation was involved in the unleashing of the mattresses!). It took me a very long time to put the beds together, putting the extra foam toppers on, the mattress covers (one zipped and one hooked – they are ones I had), putting sheets and blankets on. I stuck the pillows in a wicker basket, and stuck the new body pillow I bought beside them.

Then I put the quilt on, and the shams, and extra blankets. I can’t do anything else in the room until Friday when the double bed’s mattress and box springs get picked up. Then I’ll arrange the extra furniture and see how it all fits together. Different views of the bed(s).

I made a big salad for lunch, but it was about 2:30pm when I ate. After I post this I will be done for the day. The plumber is supposed to come first thing in the morning so I need to be ready. No lazing around in bed reading!

January 25th – At what age did you first vote and for whom did you cast your first Presidential vote? “I voted for the first time in 1952 when I was 22 years old. I have voted every presidential election since, as far as I can remember. I voted for Dwight D Eisenhower. He was a good President and had a second term.”

Calendar inspiration is that Winter is a wonderful time to dream about your future plans.  Then work hard to turn those dreams into reality.

Yesterday’s vacation destination was Orlando, Florida. And the ironic thing is that today is National Florida Day! I didn’t know that until after I had picked the destination, saved some info, and then looked at the ‘National Day’ site! A few other things to do in/around Orlando: Museum of Military History, Sea Life Orlando, Universal Studios, Beaches, Horse Farm, Pirate Cruise, Crayola Experience, Seaworld/Gaterland, Walt Disneyworld, Discovery Cove, Sky trail, Zoo and Gardens, Helicopter tours (day and night) and much more!  Just enjoy!

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TOMORROW January 26 is:

• National Green Juice Day
• National Peanut Brittle Day
• National Spouses Day
• Library Shelfie Day

I didn’t know Libraries could take selfies… Tomorrow for me is (of course) CLEANING – and getting the pipe replaced. The floors are much dryer already, although it will be a while before it’s completely dry. Then I have to figure out what to do about the floors. I hope they can be cleaned and I don’t have to replace the flooring! One thing at a time – I’m SO thankful for where I am NOW!!! God bless…

I started my day at 7am, cleaning and salting the driveway. The specific instructions from the auto txt from the plumbing company was to make sure driveways and sidewalks were clear of snow and ice, and salted. So I did that. Hoping we don’t get any more snow tonight but it looks like a possibility. *** Well, just looked out the door…

The plumber came a little after 9am. He wasn’t even here 5 minutes and he discovered the problem. I was prepared to have my front yard dug up, the driveway ripped apart, the basement floor torn open…. Turns out that it was a leaking pipe – leaking pretty hard – and running down the cement block wall. You couldn’t see it because of the dropped ceiling and the paneling and drywall. He removed a few ceiling tiles and found a mess. He shut the water off to that pipe (outside spigot) and is coming Wednesday to put in new pipes, etc. It should take about a week for the floor to dry out if I run the dehumidifier constantly. So that’s the plan!

I was expecting tens of thousands of dollars in repair. Turns out it will we less than $300 unless he runs into another issue. I am in shock! I was prepared for and expecting the worst, but God had better things in mind for me! As Nathan said, that is an example of answered prayer if I ever heard one! Blessings abound!

Two problems at work got cleared up this morning, plus two friends that were sick are on the mend. So today is full of sunshine despite the snow! I am one thankful ‘puppy’! And that’s the bottom line for today.

January 24 – Who was the President when you were born? “Herbert Clark Hoover was the 31st president. He was president from 1929 to 1933.” Herbert Hoover was blamed for the Great Depression, because the stock market fell right after he took office.

Calendar inspiration – Savor the little things that make you feel cozy.

Yesterday’s vacation destination was Ecuador and the picture posted was Bartolome Island. Other places to do and things to see are Snorkeling, beaches, hiking, mountain climbing, history, farms, sunsets, museums, parks. I have never even remotely considered going to Ecuador but it looks beautiful.

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TOMORROW January 25 is:

• National Florida Day
• National Irish Coffee Day
• National Opposite Day
• Plan for Vacation Day 

This is very ironic – I’ll tell you why tomorrow unless you already know. As for vacations, Kath and I are hoping to spend some time together this evening sketching out some plans! So we’re a day early. And one month ago today was Christmas Eve! I was at Kathy’s then, too! Have a happy Tuesday. God bless…

Another cold night, but no snow yet. It’s only noon – so I’ll update this later. JJ & Max were back in Sunday School, and they looked so dapper in their blue corduroy pants and red sweaters! Like college prep! We were making a treasure box, and we put a little cologne on a cotton ball. Max was amazed and said “Thank you SO MUCH! I have always wanted perfume. I love it!” JJ liked the rock…

Later in the day yesterday my daybed WAS delivered. I intended to slide it inside the house from the front porch. I couldn’t get it up over the threshold. So I imposed on my cousin Paul – and he and Nicholas (8) came up and helped get it inside. He also took the other bed apart, which is now in my living room (ended up moving it to the garage)! Then he put the new day/trundle bed together, at least the pasts that needed a screwdriver (I’m not good at that – remember???). I put the slats in, the braces on, and the safety tabs. I ordered the mattresses because it’s sad to say that local stores charge high delivery fees, but Wayfair and Amazon, etc, deliver free if over a certain amount. So the mattresses were on sale, plus no delivery fee, and come right to my door! What more could I want? They will be here Tuesday – how can you even beat that….

After church I changed into multi-layered clothing and met Teresa and her friend Janice – Teresa drove and we went to the Ice Fest in Ligonier. It was cold, but we all stayed warm enough. We walked around looking at the sculptures, then took time to go in a few stores. My favorite is always the vintage or antique stores. We grabbed a hot drink along the way just to keep warm. Saw a few people I knew there, too, which is always fun. Here are some of my favorite sculptures:

And pictures of us and around town.

Also found a ‘Smile’ Rock by a lamppost at the gazebo. I posted pics on their facebook page and will re-hide it next time I’m somewhere different! This is the second pass-along rock that I’ve found and I think it’s fun!

January 23 – Tell about the naughtiest thing you ever did. If you got caught, describe the consequences. “Hazel & I were painting the big kitchen. Uncle Edd kept telling us we were doing it wrong (we probably were). I was up on the step ladder and when he came close & pointed and said I had missed a spot I reached over & painted his bald head. I don’t remember what punishment I got but I was very ashamed I had done such a thing!” I think I posted this last summer, but it’s worth repeating! It IS funny!

Calendar inspiration is from Snoopy:

Yesterday’s vacation destination was Montana – specifically vacation ranches. The picture posted was an all-inclusive vacation ranch. Some of the offerings they may provide are Historic sites and battlefields, Indian Country, Ghost towns, dinosaur museums, Lewis & Clark Trail.  Ranches offer golf, photo safari, hospitality, beauty, scenic views, dog sledding, snow biking, spas, skiing, yoga, hatchet throwing, pool, fishing, archery, white water rafting, scenic river float, cattle drives, snowmobiling, backpacking.  And more!

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TOMORROW January 24 is:

• Beer Can Appreciation Day
• National Compliment Day
• National Peanut Butter Day

I have never actually appreciated a beer can. Sorry. I think all of us can pay a compliment. Have a good week and stay safe and warm! God bless…

It was very cold here last night – and I’m excited that it’s up to 23* here already just after 2pm. I was snug and warm last night, and no issues that are obvious. I may, however, step out of my norm for the morning and have a second cup of tea! I’d really like to clean off the steps and the walkway down to the shed, but it’s ice and snow- covered and don’t want to risk it.

Just got a notice that my daybed has shipped. Estimated delivery is today, but with the weather there is a ‘delay possible’ contingency on the notice. I can’t get it in the house by myself anyway so I’ll see what happens next!

Since yesterday’s post was all about Autmn Rose (thanks to all who sent birthday wishes and greetings – it was a total blessing for both of us!), I’ll recap yesterday. My sister called it my LOVE day! I (of course!) stopped at L&L Fleatique late morning, and found another snowflake. I’ve got to quit doing this. It was less than $2, so it’s not the money aspect. I’m running out of cute spaces! But I do love my snowflakes!

Every morning at exactly 7:30am Diane sends a music video, and each week is a different theme. This week is FRIENDS and she has been a friend since the first day of 10th grade in homeroom. Yesterday’s song was ‘You can’t Make Old Friends’ by Kenny Rogers and Dolly Parton. What a profound truth! (Listen to the video/song – they had a chemistry!) Copy & Paste:

I stopped at Kath’s to drop something off to her, and of course we share a strong sister-love all the time. I am blessed!

I was coming out of Dollar Tree and saw an old friend from about 25 years ago. He was happy to see me, and told me how he didn’t understand ‘God’ and ‘church’ all those years ago when I tried to share with him – but he understands better now, and considers me an important mentor. Not often someone shares that with you. Then Autmn and I got into a txt session, in which she told me several, several times ‘I love you, Mimi!!!’. Warms my heart, because I love that ‘little’ girl!

I was on my way home when my friend Bear (Barry) called me – he’s the friend who had a heart attack last week. He’s home and doing well; no pain, but on restrictions until next checkup. When we hung up, he, too, said “Love you, Marge!” Old friends are dear friends.

I was barely home when Kelly called me, and shortly afterwards Nate called me. We always end our conversations with them saying, “I love you, Mom!” And later in the evening my friend Gen from New York called to tell me a story about sharing. I had given her a ‘comfort’ gift a few years ago, and she shared it with an elderly church friend. She called to thank me both for that long-ago gift and for the privilege of comforting another. We ended our conversation with ‘love you’ as well. So I felt refreshed, blessed, and a deep thankfulness for all of these people in my life who didn’t hesitate to validate my place in their lives! God is good, all the time!

To finish off the evening, I had a potato and watched the Hallmark movie North to Home. It was exceptionally good, and unique in view of traditional Hallmark movies. Surprises, humor, drama; great cast and story line. So glad I watched it. I’ve been skimming a lot of the movies as they usually stick to a given, predictable pattern. I believe this was is worth the watch, maybe even worth buying the DVD!

Not sure what the rest of my day will be – depends on if the bed arrives!

January 22 – When you needed punishment as a child, which parent corrected you, and how? “My father spanked us with his big hand. My mother used a little ‘switch’ – we sometimes had to get it from a bush for her to use it on our ‘back side’.”

Calendar inspiration – A journey without a map or destination can be difficult.  Keep your goals fixed in your mind.

Yesterday’s vacation destination was Israel – the picture posted was the Sea of Galilee. No need to go into too much detail about what is interesting there to see and do! Start with the ‘In the Footsteps of Jesus’ tour, and the Biblical tour. Then there is Sunset camel safari, Caesarea, Jordan, Tel Aviv, Jericho, Holy Sepulcher, and the Ramon Crater. And much, much more! Just to be there!

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TOMORROW January 23 is:

• National Handwriting Day
• National Pie Day 

I have horrid handwriting so I won’t celebrate THAT. And next Saturday (Beef day) Kath is bringing pie – so I’ll wait. But today, in honor of yesterday, I want to let everyone know who reads this – occasionally or faithfully! – how much you all mean to me, and how blessed I am that each of you are in my life! God bless…