First, before I get to the heart of the day (literally and figuratively!) I’ll give you an update for the prayer requests. I talked to my neighbor’s son; he is still in ICU. He has bacterial pneumonia, and an infection in his blood and it’s also showing up in his urine. He’s very sick and uncomfortable and really doesn’t like being where he is. Who would? I guess Karen is very stressed as well.

Mark’s operation on his foot went very well. And although he hasn’t been able to walk on it for YEARS it will be quite an adjustment – obviously. Continued prayers for both are appreciated.

The LAST thing I did today was rake the front yard. It took me about two hours. But doing it in small increments is helpful. Another four bags ready for the garbage man!

Now for the day – lots of pictures; probably ‘pond’ overload! Inspired by Susie’s pictures yesterday. Kathy, Mae and I headed to Smicksburg about 8:30am, and got there a little before 10am. Some of the stores weren’t open until 11am, but there were enough that opened earlier that we easily filled the hour. Only one store was closed.

We stopped at Timeworks, and I liked this little block. Good advise.

We drove downtown and went to the stores that were already open. The Primitive Peddler staff was decorating for Christmas and was transitioning from fall. Across the street at The Country Cupboard I found a cute fall pin shaped like a cornucopia. From there we went to Smicksburg Furniture and tried out the Adirondack Chairs. Guess who was sitting in the purple chair?

All the time that we were driving we enjoyed the absolutely wonderful, colorful hills and trees. Also, the conversation was fun, too! The three of us never lack for conversation!

From the furniture store we drove over to Donna’s store. We all bought some type of chocolate or candy. Kathy and I got double-dipped chocolate covered peanuts (the best!) and Mae got maple dipped peanuts which she loved. Donna’s store was uniquely decorated as always – and she does a wonderful job on that. My favorite was the little pine tree with tiny pine cones, and the Halloween tree with twinkle lights!

Again, my current favorite store is the Shop in Smicksburg. I bought a little wooden apple but loved looking at everything. By then we had covered all the stores that were open so we headed back out Route 954. As on the last trip, we headed down Sinktown Road and ended up pulling into Uncle Jim’s driveway – where Susie had taken the pictures yesterday. We were greeted by four very white tailed deer prancing around the yard in front of the house.

We had packed a lunch and found a shady spot by the pond to pull over to eat. Once finished, we got out and walked around the pond and took pictures. If Kathy or Mae send me the pictures that they took, I’ll post them later in the week. Here are the ones I took. Watch for the reflections in the water.

We talked about all the memories and adventures we had – in the woods, with our cousins, swimming in the pond (with the frogs and fish and snakes and cattails!) and ice-skating when the ice was thick. Time flew, and before we knew it we piled back in the car and were headed down Route 119 South.

It was an absolutely beautiful day in every way. Great company, great memories, great experiences, glorious nature. Already excited for the next trip!

Smicksburg Old Fashioned Country Christmas Open House – November 4th & 5th and 11th and 12th? Maybe!!

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TOMORROW October 25th is:

National Merri Music Day; National Greasy Foods Day; Sourest Day, International Artist’s Day; Chucky, The Notorious Killer Doll Day.

Two months until Christmas Day! Bud would never fail to remind me of that! The rest, I’m not celebrating. Especially the doll thing. I’m not a scary movie girl. Make your Christmas list and have a happy day. God bless…

Today is my buddy Mike P’s birthday. I think he turns 87 today – still working and going strong! Happy birthday Mike!

A Skunk Hollow cousin’s granddaughter posted a few fall pictures of her great-grandparents’ homestead. I grew up roaming those trails and swimming in those ponds! Thanks, Susie!

I worked both stores this morning. I was supposed to have a customer come for outside title work, but they didn’t show. I guess they will either reschedule or go to a tag store. I won’t be back at work until Thursday.

After I came home and changed and had a yogurt I went down and picked up Autmn and Cam for his weigh-in. She looked pretty beat out – Cam didn’t sleep much last night and she hadn’t had time to eat anything. His appointment went well – he gained steadily and everything was as it should be. We came back here and I made Autmn some lunch and she ate while Cameron slept. Not for very long – so I held him for a while. He’s eating again now, but he took time out to pray first…

And speaking of praying — Just wanted to put a few prayer requests out there. A friend from church (I went to school with his wife’s mom) had to have his foot amputated this morning. I believe he’s in his early 50’s.

My cousin’s wife has Bell’s Palsy and thus far hasn’t shown any improvement. She is frustrated and uncomfortable and not too confident in the outcome.

An old HCC youth group friend’s mom broke her hip, had surgery and is in St. Anne’s. She HATES not being home and is angry and defiant. It’s hard on everyone, especially the mom, who is 95.

My dear friend who moved south several years ago is struggling with heart flutters. Currently going through numerous tests before exact diagnosis and treatment.

So there are many, many people who are hurting and some of them are alone. Please keep them on your prayer list! God hears and answers. Thank you.

I just took Autmn and Cameron up to her mom’s to see Summer, Penny and Josie. Noah will pick them up there. No pending appointments so don’t know when they will come back up. Maybe on the weekend!

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TOMORROW October 24th is:

National Bologna Day; United Nations Day; National Food Day.

My bologna has a first name, it’s O-S-C-A-R; my bologna has a second name, … Food it good. I think I’ll have some tomorrow. Have a great day; the weather here is to be lovely. God bless…

Sunday School and Church went well – we learned about God putting the animals in the ark for Noah, about the rains and the floods, and about living on the ark for sooo long. We talked about what they may have done all that time to keep busy, like feeding the animals and playing games. But Max didn’t think they would have had time to pack any games before God shut the door. How do you argue with logic like that?

Todd’s message was about praying through anxiety. We should take our worries to the Creator; He made you, so pray. Be specific – it 1) Helps get to the root issue 2) involves other people (someone to understand and say, ‘me too!’ and 3) leads to specific scripture. God isn’t done with me yet. Everyone is fighting battles; prayer should be our FIRST option. The Path of Peace is Paved with Prayer.

After a quick lunch I buzzed over to Panera Bread to meet Barb and pick up my Fields of Blue books that they ordered for me. We were both there early and had a nice chat before the others started to come. She works for an animal rescue and we were comparing stories. I just know what Jen posts or shares but Barb is right in there.

I was at the church by 3:20pm. When Mary got there we tried to decorate her trunk – it was smaller than mine. The wind was so strong that every time we put something up it blew away or ripped apart. We finally just lined everything up inside the trunk and handed out the candy anyway. The kids actually didn’t seem to mind as long as they got treats. Here are a bunch of pictures!

After the trunk part, we all went inside to the welcome center. There were chips and candy and hot dogs and drinks. There was also a Candy Land game with LOTS of prizes for the little ones. Way too much sugar, but it was super cute!

I got home about 6:30pm and was glad to be inside where it was warmer. It was nice to sit and visit with other adults and see the costumes. Done for another year!

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TOMORROW October 23rd is:

National Horror Movie Day; National Boston Cream Pie Day; Swallows Depart From San Juan Capistrano Day; National Mole Day; National TV Talk Show Host Day; IPOD Day.

The most ‘horror’ I want in a movie is the Great Pumpkin!. And if you think ‘Mole’ is a creature or a blemish – it’s neither. It’s a chemistry equation. Hmmm. Have a happy week. God bless.

It was nice getting up this morning knowing that I had all day to manipulate to my own liking! Which I did. After changing/washing sheets, getting a shower and having oatmeal for breakfast, I sat down and wrote out a list – errands and groceries. Having people at the house all week depleted some of my staples – like frozen pizza and ketchup! Ha! And I added a box of leaf bags to the list – although that chore will wait until warmer weather next week.

That being said, how can Walmart be out of 75 watt bulbs and 12 oz Diet Pepsi? Ugh…

I stopped at the bank and opened Cameron’s savings account. So now, he’s started on his journey with my other grandkids!

I really feel the cold today – there’s a definite chill in the air. I put on my warm Snoopy slippers and turned on the little space heater. It’s warm down here now.

It was a strange few days with emergency vehicle sightings. Thursday night there was an ambulance in my neighbor’s driveway. Rick has ongoing health issues and I guess something came up that sent him to the hospital. I haven’t seen anyone over there to check in. And today when I went to Aldi the store down the block had several fire trucks come screaming into the plaza. I didn’t see any smoke, but a bunch of people were standing outside. I hope that’s it for a while!

Once again, the sky is dramatic- we’ve had a lot of colorful days with skies and trees!

Yesterday Kelly sent me a txt me about a conversation she had with Logan. They were on their way to his tech school class in Washington on Thursday. Kelly:: Logan, what music do you want to listen to? Country? Church music? Logan:: Christmas music. On shuffle. Kelly:: Grammy would be so proud! And I am – I’ve been listening to Christmas music (on shuffle) since Labor Day!!!

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TOMORROW October 22nd is:

National Make a Dog’s Day; National Mother-in-Law Day; National Color Day; National Nut Day.

If you have a dog, make his/her day tomorrow! If you don’t, contact Ninth Life Rescue (facebook) and adopt one! I like walnuts…. God bless..

I’m tired this evening – It was busier today than I planned. Autmn and Cam spent the day – but she took care of herself and Cameron – I didn’t have to do anything. That’s not to say that I didn’t have quality and quantity baby time! I know he doesn’t ‘response’ smile, but he smiles frequently. It’s so cute to see his little face light up.

The trees are turning a little more every day. And the sky was very dramatic today.

The rabbit was in his nest again today – I could see a little more of him.

Autmn was watching an episode of Grey’s Anatomy and the surgeon was singing a Beach Boys song while he was operating! I was singing right along with him…

I’m going to try again for a quiet day tomorrow. We’ll see how that goes….

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TOMORROW October 21st is:

National Apple Pie Day; Back to the Future Day; National Whole Hog Barbeque Day; National Witch Hazel Day; National Reptile Awareness Day; National Pumpkin Cheesecake Day; National Sweetest Day.

Apple Pie sounds great! Haven’t had any in ages. Pumpkin anything is unappealing, as are reptiles! Celebrate the weekend! God bless… PS – we used to call Aunt Hazel Brown ‘Which (not witch) Hazel’ because there were two Aunt Hazels!!!

Not a real busy day – but I kept active all day. Worked in Jeannette then went to Greensburg, then got gas in the Nissan on my way home. Just after I got home Di txt me that she had some things for me, so I went over there. And when I got home, the second car seat base came in for baby Cameron. So it will be easier to transport the baby – not stressing over forgetting the base in Noah’s car!

On the way back from Diane’s I took pictures in her neighborhood. Lots of people really go all out decorating for Halloween.

My favorite sights, though, are the views of the hills!

I made a salad for lunch, then cleaned up the kitchen and scrubbed a spot on my shirt – I’m leaving it soak overnight. Not sure what I got on it – just taking precautions. Then I cut the grass and also cut back some dead stalks. I also found where the bunny hides. Can you see him? Look closely!

Rege and I were talking this morning about getting overgrown trees cut back. I was trying to explain how tall mine were, so I just went up front and took a photo. I’ll show him on Monday.

I have 3 Bedroom, 2 Bath, 1 Ghost (Hallmark movie) on in the background. I’ve watched it a few times.

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TOMORROW October 20th is:

National Chicken and Waffles Day; International Day of Air Traffic Controller; International Chefs Day; National Youth Confidence Day; National Brandied Fruits Day; National Mammography Day; National Get Smart About Credit Day.

Tomorrow is a day off for me – I’ll get some cleaning down, and possibly an errand or two. Just low key. Enjoy your day and God Bless…

As is occasionally the case, things today did not go as planned. We checked with Autmn about when she planned to come over, and found that Noah was off today. So they were coming over about 3:30pm. That gave us a lot of time, and Kelly had a coupon for Gabes, so we went over there. She got a few things that she needed, and used her coupon. So it was profitable. I got a pair of plain, black pants, which at the price was very good.

After lunch and a little down time, Kelly & I went outside in the front yard to clean up the leaves. It’s much easier if you keep up with them in small increments, so it doesn’t take as long. I was grateful for her help.

We just finished up when Noah, Autmn and Cameron got here. Kelly was very excited to get her hands on the baby and get some important ‘great aunt’ cuddle time. Chase and Logan looked stricken when asked if they wanted to hold him. Ummm, that’s a no.

As evidenced by the sweatshirts, Kelly made an extra fall shirt and shared it with me. That was very kind and much appreciated! We had a mini photo shoot and enjoyed spending time together.

The catch to the evening was that Jen and Chrissy were sick, and Nate didn’t want to carry germs to the baby, so they couldn’t come! We ordered pizza anyway, but since Kelly had to drive home in the dark, and the baby needed to get home for bedtime, they all left before 7pm. Noah/Autmn dropped off Nate’s pie, Jen’s brownies, and the gifts. We were sorry for the way the day turned out, but we did enjoy our visit and pizza with those who were here!

Now – tomorrow, it’s back to work! Chrissy is struggling, so please pray for her. I hate so much to see her so unsettled – love that girl!

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TOMORROW October 19th is:

Get to Know Your Customers Day; National Kentucky Day; National Seafood Bisque Day.

Not much going for tomorrow. Find your own reason to celebrate! God bless…

TODAY is my son’s birthday – sending him hugs and lots of love and wishes for a beautiful day and a wonderful year ahead! We will get together tomorrow evening!

I worked both stores this morning, then helped Mike P with two deals. I got home just a few minutes after Kelly got here. We got organized then went to get a few groceries for the week. First we spotted a chicken breast display at Aldi, and ended up getting everything we needed to make acini de pepe soup!

Then we decided to make a butterscotch pie for Nate’s birthday (his favorite thanks to Aunt Cordelia!), and Kelly thought we should have brownies, too. So a few extra things for the afternoon.

Logan was hungry for chicken patties, so Kelly bought buns, too, and then grabbed hamburger so we could have those for today’s lunch. Wow. Lots of projects. Then Chase requested chicken Quilla-dillas so lots of chicken dishes today: Soup, sandwiches, quesadillas.

Chase wanted Cheddar Pringles, which made Kelly hungry for Pringles but she doesn’t like Cheddar ones. So she bought a can of the regular.

Our wall clock quit working at Jeannette, and everyone was irritated when they looked above the door and the clock was gone. So I bought us a new one today, making sure it had big, clear numbers!

When we got home, Chase and Logan stocked the fridge with everyone’s favorite drinks. So we are set for tomorrow’s birthday bash.

The zinneas are still blooming and pretty. I also found a mushroom growing. Weird…

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TOMORROW October 18th is:

International Legging Day; Bra Day USA; National No Beard Day; Medical Assistants Recognition Day; National Chocolate Cup Cake Day; Hagfish Day; Support Your Local Chamber Of Commerce.

I love wearing leggings. They are just comfortable! Have a fun day tomorrow, and again, Happy Birthday today to my Nate! God bless…

It was cloudy, and cool, but not much rain – thankfully. I left early to pick Autmn and Cameron up and stopped at the store to grab Bosses Day cards. OF COURSE there was none to be found! So a huge THANK YOU and note of appreciation to the four best bosses a girl could have. They keep me sane and support me and validate my purpose. Thanks – Sir Rege, Ken, Barry, and Joe! You are the BEST!!!

Today was the grand opening of the Dunkin’ Donuts in Youngwood. Autmn and I discussed it and figured it would be really crowded. We got there and NO ONE was there! So we swung in and got her a donut, and they were giving away string backpacks. Y108 was there – They waved at us! If I had known the DJ there I would have stopped but I didn’t!

Autmn, Cameron and I got to the appointment exactly on time. Cam passed his ‘tests’ and is doing great. He wore his little skeleton outfit and was so cute!

When we got home we stuck tater tots and chicken nuggets in the oven. I held Cameron while Autmn ate, then I grabbed a few tater tots. Autmn was finally able to get a nice nap and slept for a good while, so that was good. I took a picture of his little baby feet because I think little baby feet are so cute!

It’s hard to see in the photo, but the trees are really starting to change to bright colors. It would have helped if the sun had been out!

I’ll probably finish the ironing once I post this, then make a salad. I still haven’t watched my WINDOW WONDERLAND movie yet – hoping I have time to do that tonight! Noah just got here so they are getting ready to head home for the evening. I have to work in the morning…

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TOMORROW October 17th is:

National Pharmacy Technician Day; National Edge Day; Black Poetry Day; National Mulligan Day; National Pasta Day; Pro-Life Day of Silent Solidarity.

It’s also MY SON’S BIRTHDAY – Happy birthday to Nate – enjoy your day and we will celebrate Wednesday! That’s enough celebrations for me. God bless…

It was a rainy cool morning, but the sun came out for a while this afternoon. It’s 51* with light rain right now. I moved the buckets that blocked the driveway so Noah can drive down it when he picks up Autmn and Cameron.

Cameron is napping. I turned on the vibration in the pack and play and he seems to like that. And since he just ate maybe he’ll sleep for a bit. Autmn just needed to get some sleep so I picked them up and have been helping with Cameron to give her a break. Tomorrow I’ll take them for his doctor’s appointment, then on Wednesday they will spend the day with Kelly and the rest of us here for Nate’s birthday celebration.

Todd’s message was very applicable – about Anxiety. It steals our trust in God. He’s basing his four sermons on Philippians and a book by Max Lucado. The #1 health issue in the US for women is anxiety; the #2 issue for men. There has been a spike in Anxiety in our society since the removal of God from public forums and since technology. Plus we are more aware of the state of the world, which is distressing. We need to celebrate who God is and rejoice in the Lord. Celebrate what is true about God. Anxiety is both physical and spiritual.

Chrissy and Dray went to Homecoming Friday and I just nabbed some photos from Jen’s facebook page. They look stunning!

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TOMORROW October 16th is:

National Sports Day; National Liqueur Day; National Clean Your Virtual Desktop Day; World Food Day; Global Cat Day; Department Store Day; National Dictionary Day; National Boss’s Day.

My bosses are the BEST! Jen will surely celebration national cat day. Sports day? Not this girl! Have a lovely Monday and God bless…