Thirty Four years ago this week I purchased and moved into this house – first house I ever owned! And here I am, still going strong. But the secret is, mostly it owns ME. It’s always telling me what to do.

Like today — I was outside for almost 2 hours playing in the dirt. I figure if I spend just a little time whenever I get a minute in nice weather, I’ll probably have the gardens weeded and looking good by November…

Diane sent me pictures of her second round of daffodils, and now her forsythia is in bloom. I noticed that my lilacs are budded, and the trees are full. Hoping I get a lot of flowers this year.

My little dancing sun catchers are very happy today. The bear is really going to town, while Santa Snoopy is just nodding away.

And speaking of bears – today is my friend Bear’s birthday. Hope you have a great day, my good friend!

Scripture of the day:

PEANUTS:

TOMORROW March 19th is:

Certified Nurses Day; International Read to Me Day; National Automatic Door Day; National Backyard Day; National Chocolate Caramel Day; National Let’s Laugh Day; National Poultry Day; National 3-D Day.

Reading is awesome – and so is laughing! And have a chocolate caramel while you’re at it. God bless…

Actually it didn’t seem like St. Patrick’s day for me today. We had a little bit of that celebration on Saturday, then again on Sunday at the potluck. There was lots of food Sunday, and some trivia and a few jokes. The weather got pretty nasty so most people (including me) slipped out a little early. I was glad I did, as the wind was terrific and the rain was a downpour.

Todd’s message was ‘Struggles that Strengthen’. – Basically he talked about kindness. I took a ton of notes, but I’ll just share a few. There is a kindness void these days – don’t withhold kindness. The most prevalent places to see the opposite of kindness is Social Media, Customer Service rudeness, Family neglect, no compassion to strangers, and political and social Divisiveness. In showing kindness you reflect Christ. People are actually starved for kindness. Try to do at least one act of kindness every week!

The surprise at the service was that my great nephew Isaac (Jesse and Tonia’s son) filled in at the piano for worship time! I didn’t even know he could play anything but drums. He was amazing – I was happy and proud of him. His drum teacher, Dr. Booker, has been teaching him extras. Way to go, Isaac!

By the time I got home and finished organizing everything from Saturday, the sun was shining and the storm had completely calmed down. It was almost like Jesus said PEACE, BE STILL!!! I loaded the car up with things I promised to drop off for Kathy and headed over there. We talked through the door for a few minutes. I was glad she is feeling better!

Kelly sent me a video – Logan and Craig were at a hockey game again at West Banco Arena. They and two of their friends were on the ice to play a ring toss game. Looked like they really had fun.

This morning after breakfast the horses were out in the field across the street. I stood and watched for a few minutes, then they kicked up their hills and trotted off across the pasture.

I made a batch of cinnamon muffins for breakfast, then I started on the shower curtain project in the laundry room. It looks so different that I’m still trying to make up my mind. I may still have to adjust the length of one of the curtains. I’ll decide after I see it for a few days.

I also changed the outside flags a few hours early. Sort of spring ones up now. I also switched out the blankets for spring, even though it’s a few days early. I don’t think anyone will be too distressed. Changed out the green lights on the bookcase for multi-colored.

SCRIPTURE of the DAY:

PEANUTS?

TOMORROW March 18th is:

National Awkward Moments Day; Forgive Mom and Dad Day ???; Global Recycling day; National 3-D Day; National Lacy Oatmeal Cookie Day; National Sloppy Joe Day; Tea for Two Tuesday; World Social Work Day; National AG Day.

I don’t think I have anything to forgive M&D for! I’ll have tea tomorrow- but probably for one! God bless…

I’ve been trying to access my website for almost an hour. Finally got in! I will use today’s post for yesterday’s Skunk Hollow Women’s Fest. Everything else will be covered in the next few days, including Todd’s message from this morning and our potluck lunch afterwards.

As I sit here I think I am hearing thunder. I thought we were done with that for the day! Anyway, yesterday I started the morning putting the final touches on things. I put the trash can in the garage, clean rugs on the floor, and brought serving bowls and utensils downstairs. I needed to put the shredded cheese and lettuce in sealed bowls, and chop the tomatoes. I defrosted the already cooked shredded chicken, put it in the crockpot, and added seasonings. Once it was simmering I went on to the next chore.

The ground beef needed cooked, which I did, then seasoned it and stuck it in the smaller crockpot. Once they were both simmering nicely I put them downstairs on the table with extension cords. I made iced tea, lemonade, and took that down with an ice bucket and cups.

I had just finished with all the food issues when Connie and Gail pulled in. I was so excited they were early! We got their food set out and they got comfortable in the family room. Both Karens, Holly and Beth came next, and Gwen came shortly after. Colleen could not make it due to a construction ’emergency’ (aren’t they all???) and Kathy, of course, couldn’t come due to illness. But the 8 of us picked up the gauntlet and had a great time on behalf of the whole group.

We spend EIGHT HOURS chatting – and we covered everything from health, and spouses (or lack thereof!), Children and grandchildren, houses, jobs (or lack thereof!), travel, future events for the SHW girls, food choices, missions, porches, fresh air, summer, shopping (especially TJ MAXX — ask Holly and Connie!) — I can’t even remember everything. We ate all afternoon. Once we had eaten the tacos and side dishes, we waited an hour an had dessert. We took a short break and had snacks, then more tacos, then chips and dip, finished a bag of pretzels and half the M&M’s, looked at pictures, passed around videos on our phones, played a fun game, and eventually got around to missing our parents. (Except Gwen – UC and AJ are very much thriving!)

Our mission for this event was to all pitch in together and make New Mother Kits for the women in Haiti. There were specific items that are desperately needed, and as always when there’s a need the SHW pitch in. And they didn’t disappoint. What a blessing for these new mothers and sweet babies!

Karen O gifted me (as hostess) with a box of Cats Claw tea, which I am anxious to try! I shared a few with Kathy, as its purpose is to strengthen the immune system (among other things). She also gave me a beautifully painted butterfly stone. Beth gave me a beautiful candle set that has glowing bulbs! Sweet girls!

The girls were so gracious and helped carry leftovers upstairs, and once everyone had headed back toward HOME, I put the food away and cleaned up the family room. It was such as wonderful day, and we all connect is such a special way that I can’t imagine ever not getting together like that. We already have suggestions for the next four events! I’m ready! Reaching out with love and hugs to my ‘girls’!!! Love you all.

SCRIPTURE of the DAY:

PEANUTS?

TOMORROW March 17th is:

Act Happy Day; Camp Fire Girls Day; Doctor Patient Trust Day; Evacuation Day; National Corn Beef and Cabbage Day; St. Patrick’s Day.

March 17th is the anniversary of St. Patrick’s death rather than his birth. Did you know the shamrock stands for the trinity, or for faith, hope and love. I don’t have to act happy when I actually AM! God bless..

The moon was big and bright last night but I didn’t see a red moon. I was up in the night but nothing that I could see.

I got up a little early this morning and changed my sheets, then did two loads of laundry. I had to meet my tax accounting at 10:30, so I had to be organized. We always meet at this certain parking lot uptown, a block from the post office. So I went past Dad, said hi, and we both pulled in at the same time.

I was thoroughly surprised today when I got a lovely thank you note in the mail from my friend Patty – the one who had the Hymn Sing at River Hill church last week. In all the decades that I’ve been sending her notes and letters this is the first time she’s sent me anything. I was touched and very excited! She sent Kathy and Paul a note, too, and mentioned me. Sigh…

From there I stopped to help Mike P with a deal, then stopped at the bank, and finally got groceries at Walmart for tomorrow. After a quick lunch I set about cleaning the garage and prepping it for tables. It will be so much more open and convenient to set the food and drinks out there. And it will be warm enough tomorrow. Everything that can be done today is done, except for a small amount of ironing.

The downside of that is – – I have to leave the car outside! But it will be fine.

YOU are sworn to secrecy — SHHHH!!!

Kathy had something that I had to pick up from her. She’s not feeling well so she can’t attend tomorrow. Sure puts a damper on the plans and the day. Praying for her quick recovery!

On the way home I stopped and got gas in the Nissan – and took a few pictures of the courthouse.

SCRIPTURE of the DAY: (Not really a scripture but a great thought!)

PEANUTS?

TOMORROW March 15th is:

Skunk Hollow Spring Women’s Fest!; National Shoe The World Day; World Speech Day; World Contact Day; International Sport Car Racing Day; Maple Syrup Saturday; National Corn Dog Day; National Peanut Lovers Day; National Quilting day; True Confessions Day; Brutus Day; Buzzards Day; Dumbstruck Day; Everything You DO is Wrong Day; Ides of March (Happy birthday Mike Gregg!)

I will be busy celebrating the SHWF Spring event all day – so don’t be surprised if I don’t post tomorrow. I could probably identify with doing things wrong! Have a lovely day! God bless…

Today was full but not crazy. Pinnacle had several deals and titles, and I finished up the paperwork for my friend Teresa’s granddaughter. She sent me a picture of Gabby sitting in the car getting used to it. She’s already excited and her birthday isn’t until April!

Kelly sent me a picture of a big antique milk can that her friend was getting rid of. She’s going to bring it for me, but she said we’d never get it out of the car by ourselves. I guess we’ll beg the neighbor… or her brother!

My friend Nancy sends out those Jacquie Lawson ecards. The one she sent yesterday had a beautiful e-puzzle. I loved putting it together.

I’ve spent weeks trying to decide what new shower curtains I wanted for my laundry room. I finally decided. I’ll see what they look like when they get here. They should come Saturday but I won’t have time to deal with that until Sunday or Monday.

Chrissy and Autmn finally agreed on a date for the next Crocus Tea. Last year we missed having one – Chrissy was a senior, Autmn was busy getting used to Monaca and baby Cameron, and I spent 7 months fighting various illnesses and maladies. So we picked the first Sunday in April and I already have the list made out! Cameron wants cookies! Autmn wants cheese, Chrissy wants strawberries, and the both want pizza and cream of potato soup. The crocuses are up so it’s time!

I saw the cutest Snoopy St. Patrick’s Day blanket at Burlington today. And believe it or not, I did NOT buy it! Not that I even need another blanket….

Tomorrow is my ‘get organized’ day for the Skunk Hollow event on Saturday. That includes getting the food I need and putting everything together for the buffet. Then I have to meet my tax lady and give her my documents. When I was getting organized the sunshine was making rainbows on my papers.

TONIGHT is the FULL MOON! Make sure you peek out to see it. It’s called the Worm moon or a blood moon, and it will be a lunar eclipse tonight about midnight.

SCRIPTURE of the DAY:

PEANUTS?

TOMORROW March 14th is:

National Write Your Story Day; Pi Day; Save a Spider Day (NOPE!!); White Day; World Sleep Day; Bake a Pie in Solidarity Day; Celebrate Scientists Day; Dog Theft Awareness Day; Dribble to Work Day; Genius Day; International Ask a Question Day (Why?); International Day of Mathematics; Legal Assistant Day; National Children’s Craft Day; March Full Moon; National Freelancers Day; National Learn About Butterflies Day; National Potato Chip Day; National Preschoolers Day.

I’ll write my story – or anyone’s for that matter. I will try to check out the full moon. I was never a math whiz. Potato Chips and Butterflies are both nice. God bless… (the preschoolers…)

I’m going to skip the post tonight. My computer was doing some updates and just now finally came back up. Then I couldn’t get into my account. Ugh.

But I spent all day cleaning and reading and doing laundry so there’s nothing exciting to post anyway. So I’ll catch up tomorrow – Sending hugs and thanks for checking in.

SCRIPTURE of the DAY:

PEANUTS?

TOMORROW March 13th is:

National Open an Umbrella Inside Day; Purim (Esther Fast); International School Meals Day; K-9 Veterans Day; National Earmuffs Day; National Good Samaritan Day; National Jewel Day; Popcorn Lovers Day; Smart & Sexy Day.

God bless…

Getting up in the mornings has not been an issue. That surprises me as I’m not a morning person. But you do what you gotta do! I didn’t have to work today, but I still left the house at 9am and picked up my prescription refills, helped Mike P with a deal, and made it to the meeting at Hanna’s Town early.

We had about a dozen people at the meeting, and were able to go over the schedule and agenda for the Spring tea and make all the food assignments. We had several new members of the committee and they were pretty willing to make cookies and sandwiches, etc. We’re all ready for the adventure!

I stopped on the way home and bought all the requested Easter candy for my family. Sometimes if you wait you can’t get what they want. I was able to find everything, but a few of the candy choices were not ‘Easter’ packaging – just normal everyday candy. They taste the same so I don’t think they care. I came home, turned myself into a ‘pretzel’ and got the outdoor spigot turned back on, and washed the Nissan. This is its first bath since I got it – it was super dirty so it looks very nice now!

So – last night! We had a really great evening with the PEEPS! Liz could not make it – (Love her, but her loss!!!). April brought Chick Fil-A, Joelyn brought us hand made soaps (for the bath, not to eat!), and I had drinks and snacks and desserts.

We ate a whole bowl of white chocolate covered popcorn. It was quite a hit. All of us are dealing with something stressful – some harder than others – so we spent the evening bearing our souls and lifting each other up. I felt like I was very fortunate to basically just be tramping through my medical appointments and prescriptions! Theirs were much deeper and even heart wrenching.

Joelyn’s daughter is in Arizona – she just got her Master’s degree and is working out there. April has a son and daughter in the area, both struggling a bit, and a daughter in St. Louis in the military. She plans to visit her sister in Wisconsin for Easter and is excited to go there and visit.

While we were chatting and eating, Chrissy, Autmn and Cameron stopped for a minute. They needed to pick up something and it was fun to see them. We were excited to introduce Cameron to April and Joelyn. There was a lot of laughing going on, and Cameron LOVES to laugh and he just laughed with us! I was obsessed with my little guy and didn’t even take pictures when they were there.

I was able to offer some comfort and suggestions to the girls before they left. They don’t have a strong faith base, but I was able to share a few thoughts with them that I thought would be a comfort and offer direction, without pushing them away. April is generally receptive to that.

Tonight I handled a title transfer for my friend Teresa. She was giving her old car to her granddaughter. So we were able to get that handled for them with ease, and a little discount! I was glad to be able to help with that.

It’s early – for me – and my plans changed for tomorrow, so I’ll be on track for cleaning. Oh, joy. Have a lovely evening and enjoy the beautiful weather!

JOKE: I used to be addicted to the Hokey-Pokey; But I turned myself around…. (HAHAHAHA)

SCRIPTURE for the Day:

PEANUTS?

TOMORROW March 12th is:

Alfred Hitchcock Day; National Baked Scallops Day; National Girl Scout Day; National No Smoking Day; National Plant a Flower Day; National Working Mom’s Day.

I work, and I’m a mom! I used to be a Girl Scout. I’ll be planting flowers, but not tomorrow. God bless…

This will be short. I have friends popping over this evening and all I’m doing right now is getting organized. So I’ll post tomorrow.

I was sweeping the sidewalks after work and found two little crocus popping up. I hope we can have our crocus tea this year – we missed last year. It was just too crazy with Autmn being in Pittsburgh and having the baby, and Chrissy a senior and working two jobs. So I’m hopeful!

JOKE: How do chickens bake cakes? From Scratch!!!

SCRIPTURE of the DAY:

PEANUTS?

TOMORROW March 11th is:

311 Day; National Promposal Day; Debunking Day; Key Deer Awareness Day; National COVID 19 Day ?; National Dream Day; National Johnny Appleseed Day; National Oatmeal Nut Waffles Day; National Organize your Home Office Day; Wash your Nose Day; World Plumbing Day.

I’ll stick with dreaming — have a lovely day. God bless…

I finally got all the clocks in the house adjusted. The car, computer, phone, my alarm, and tablet adjusted on their own. The rest I had to adjust. For some reason it was totally easy to get up this morning. It was an ordinary day. We’ll see what happens tonight. Last night before I went up to bed I stumbled on a documentary about Patsy Cline. I’ve always liked most of her music, and her untimely tragic death saddened me. I think my two favorites are CRAZY and SWEET DREAMS.

It was good to finally see Mary this morning. Our Sundays had not been coordinating. In fact she even sent me a little GIF this week!

Todd’s message this morning was in I Corinthians 13: 4-5 (Love Chapter). He pointed out that the first thoughts in these verses were what was IS, and the next four were what it is NOT. It IS patient and kind. It is NOT envious, boastful, proud, self-seeking. To stay on track we need an accountability partner to keep us humble, honest and loving. Someone who can firmly and respectfully tell us what we need to hear. We need to be honest with ourselves about ourselves. Good thought: “I’m going to consider somebody else’s words more important than mine.” Isn’t that difficult?

I sent all the kids and grandkids requests for their favorite Easter candy. I need to keep ahead of the game this holiday!

Kelly sent me photos of Logan and his friend Craig. They went to a Nailer’s (local Hockey team) game last week. They were picked to play a game at intermission. Logan won! I have no idea what he won…. But they had a great time and loved the attention.

After lunch today I melted some chocolate and drizzled popcorn. I did white and dark chocolate, and then iced a few store bought cookies. I’ll use them for dessert tomorrow.

Autmn and Noah were going to Mt. Pleasant to visit with friends who just had a new baby. They stopped for the walker that was stored here. So at least I got to nuzzle my baby and talk to him a few minutes. He always takes his shoes and socks off – bare toes! Noah gave him a ratchet wrench to hold and he was adjusting his dinosaur’s tail! He knew what it was for, which amazed me!

Tomorrow starts my busy week – but I’ll still have plenty of time for everything. The PEEPS are coming over tomorrow evening, and then something every day until Saturday’s SHWF! Several very special events!

SCRIPTURE of the DAY:

PEANUTS?

TOMORROW March 10th is:

National Pack Your Lunch Day; National Skirt Day; Paper Money Day; National Button Week; Eight Hours Day; Festival of Life Cracks Day; Fill Our Staplers Day; Harriet Tubman Day; International Bagpipe Day; International Wig Day; Mario Day; National Dry Shampoo Day; National Blueberry Popover Day; National Landline Telephone Day; National Napping Day.

I can’t even remember the last time I wore a skirt or dress. I like paper money. My staplers are currently full. No wigs or landline. I could nap… God bless.

Today was sunny but still cold. Kathy and I went on errands this morning. She accomplished a few things but it wasn’t as simple as we assumed it would be. The best purchase of the day was her iced coffee and my frozen Coke at Burger King!

I had a bowl of my potato soup for lunch. I still have a few small pieces of Spam left so I’ll probably fry that for supper with a piece of homemade bread.

The birds were back this morning. There were more but when I got close to the window they flew off.

Autmn sent me another video of Cameron talking. He’s such a happy little boy.

I’m going to get my bank statement balanced before supper, and then try to finish ironing. I’d like to finish the book I’m reading. It’s very well written, grammatically, and the plot moves well. A hint of mystery too. So I will hunt out another book by the same author.

SCRIPTURE of the DAY:

PEANUTS:

TOMORROW March 9th is:

Bang Clang Day; Check your Batteries Day; National Barbie Day; National Crab Meat Day; National Dishwasher Day; National False Teeth Day; National Get Over it Day; National Meatball Day; Daylight Savings Time.

No choice but to embrace Daylight Savings Time. Enjoy adjusting! God bless…