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

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

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

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

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

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TOMORROW December 5th is:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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TOMORROW December 4th is:

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

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

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

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

A few more decorations —

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

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

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TOMORROW December 3rd is:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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TOMORROW December 2nd is:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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TOMORROW December 1st is:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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TOMORROW November 30th is:

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

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

Jeannette did not have much, and Rege wasn’t there, so I took the time to decorate my little desk space. Barry said it was light-up night at Marge’s desk! Just added a little bit of ‘festive’ to the place!

I stopped to help Mike with something, and when I left there was a deer on the hill just watching me!

Greensburg had a few things to do, but I did finish in time to put up my little tree. The lights needed batteries so I’ll take them in tomorrow. I went through all the rest of the miscellaneous boxes, so other than a few window stickees all that’s left is the tree. I’ll work on those tomorrow and Wednesday.

I finally got the call about the pathology report – everything is fine and the tumor was benign. Good news! But I got a txt message from my PCP reminding me of an appointment for Friday that I had cancelled in September. It took me twice as long to cancel the appointment as it ever did to make one. But all good…

November 28 – Tell about the Thanksgiving traditions of YOUR youth. What foods were on your Thanksgiving table? “When I was still living at home we always butchered a couple pigs we had raised. Sometime around the end of November we all went to Grandmam & Grandpap Eakmans for a big meal. One year we ate one of their goats. Yuck!!!

Calendar inspiration – from Snoopy via Diane:

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TOMORROW November  29th is:

• Electronic Greetings Day
• National Day of Giving

As mentioned, tomorrow is tree day! Have a wonderful Tuesday. God bless…

I met Mary at church at 8:30am and we took down the old bulletin board and display strips. We worked for an hour and then the kids came in so we had to take turns finishing it up. Mary made little ‘Thankful’ turkeys with the kids out of baby food jars, and put M&M’s in them. They thought it was wonderful, and I did too. I got to eat a few of the M&M’s!

I worked all afternoon on the Christmas boxes. I still have 3 boxes of kitchen things, all the tea towels, etc, the window stickees, and the tree. So I got a lot done today. I am posting a bunch of Snoopy/Peanuts pictures!

Right in the middle of the afternoon the sun went in and it got very dark. Next thing I knew there was lightening, thunder, and pouring rain. It blew my neighbor’s newly displayed Christmas tree across his patio onto its side. There was water running down the hill in rivulets. Once it quit raining the sky was just layers of clouds. I just had dinner, finished cleaning up boxes, and now I am done. I have to work in the morning!

November 27 – Share a favorite Thanksgiving memory. “The year Aunt Blanch & Uncle Harry and girls spent the long weekend with us. The house was really crowded but we had a great time. I also liked going to stay over at Grandmam Eakmans. We didn’t do that too often.”

Calendar inspiration – courtesy of Peanuts!

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TOMORROW November 28th is:

• National French Toast Day
• Cyber Monday 

Tomorrow is back to work after being off since last Monday! I’m ready, though. Someone has to pay the bills! Have a great week and God Bless….

Charles Schulz would have been 100 today. There were little pieces of information all over facebook, the internet, and even on the radio. He was (in my opinion) a brilliant, creative man.

I changed and washed my bed sheets and the ones off the trundle beds. Got those rooms and beds done, had a shower and breakfast, then started in on the Christmas boxes. Even though I know basically where things went last year, sometimes I just don’t like last year’s choices 100%. Some are perfect, but many just need switched out. Still have a lot to do.

While I work I have ‘Three Wise Men and a Baby’ on in the background. I watched it last night but it always helps to see it several times because of missing parts here and there. The movie was ok but I wasn’t ‘wowed’ by it like I expected. Some parts were very funny, and I loved the end – unexpected!

As I was putting the inside lights around my windows, the neighbor behind me was setting up a Christmas tree on his back patio. I can see it from my bedroom window and it looks very festive! I believe it’s just bright, colored lights – no ornaments. I like it and am glad I can enjoy it.

That’s it for today.

November 26 – Share your favorite funny story of me as a child. “You were old enough to climb up on chairs. I was doing dishes when Mary Jane called me. The phone was in the living room. I heard the kitchen chair being pushed across the floor & went to check on you. You were washing your hair in the dish water. You never liked to get your hair wet so why you did such a funny thing was a mystery!”

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TOMORROW November 27th is:

• National Secondhand Sunday
• National Bavarian Cream Pie Day
• National Craft Jerky Day

Tomorrow I am meeting Mary at the church early and we are going to get the classroom transformed from fall to Christmas/winter. Then I’ll come home and get at the boxes again! Have a great day! God bless…

I forgot to post yesterday morning’s sunrise pictures. I was THANKFUL for that beautiful start to my day!

Kelly & I – after breakfast – went searching for all the window stickees. I never find them all on the first try, and will probably find the missing one(s) when I put the Christmas ones up. But she went to work on ordering shirts for her business account and I bundled up and went outside. I got all the fall decorations, lights, and flags pulled down and packed away.

Next I set up the spot light for the deer, changed all the flags to Christmas, strung LED lights on the deck, and put the projector in the front. Also have little trees with bows lining the front walk and candy canes on the steps under the deck. Took me almost 3 hours but it’s all done now. I just hung out with Kelly and the boys until they left. She is on her way home, I’m posting this, and I will start going through Christmas boxes tomorrow morning. I need a refuel til then!

November 25 – What were my other childhood addresses? “When you were 3 years old we built our new house on a piece of ground we bought from your Grandfather Lloyd Steiner on what would be later named Shady Lane. You lived there until you married.”

Calendar inspiration – Snoopy!

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TOMORROW November 26th is:

• National Cake Day
• Small Business Saturday

I’ll pass on the cake, but take the time to shop at the small, privately owned businesses in your community. They are your neighbors and friends and they appreciate your business! God bless…