The sun was shining today and the temps were up a bit. Certainly not too warm but an improvement. Our new class started for the Sunday School hour – ‘What HCC is all about’ (paraphrased). Reminded me of the Raldo Cook days! Todd’s message was continuing in the ‘Church’ series. Today was the story of Saul/Paul. His conversion and the letters he wrote to the churches of the early church are a key part of the New testament. His life ended, but the world was impacted, and greatly influenced the Gentile church. We weren’t looking for a Messiah. But Christ died for our sins, was buried, raised from the dead, and appeared to hundreds. That is the Gospel, and our focus.

After church I baked the scones, and had one for lunch, with fresh icing. I also started the roast to simmer for the veggie soup. It’s still cooking and almost done. I just want to add a few noodles or rice to top it off.

Once I had lunch, I went to the garage. I had to look for a few things and I cleaned out a few craft storage boxes that were out of hand. The garage floor was a messy disaster so I kept the car outside and swept it thoroughly. I carried extra bins (that I emptied out yesterday) down to store in the shed.

The snow is not melting fast enough, so I shoveled off the rest of the bottom of the driveway. Since I had shoveled the top part of the driveway snow into the parking space, I had to clean it out. Not so easy. A lot of it was frozen piles. I got about half of it done. It was heavy and stuck to the drive. But it’s a good start. Maybe it’ll melt off a bit and I can finish tomorrow.

SCRIPTURE of the DAY:

PEANUTS ?

TOMORROW January 27th is:

Better Business Communication Day; Bubble Wrap Appreciation Day; Holocaust Memorial Day; National Chocolate Cake Day; Punch the Clock Day; Vietnam Peace Day.

Tomorrow is Kelly’s birthday! We’ll celebrate that tomorrow with pictures. I’ll take the chocolate cake. Glad I don’t have to punch a clock these days. Who doesn’t appreciate bubble wrap? God bless….

Start making your list — Eleven months until Christmas Day! I’m not ready. I changed and washed my bed sheets, then had breakfast and started on my day. I did a bit of reading while I was drinking my hot tea. I decided to get a jump on making scones and mixed them up before lunch and tucked them into the fridge until tomorrow when I’ll bake and freeze them.

I saw a panther in my back yard this morning – sneaking across the snowy ground, jumping up the fence and leaping off the other side. Actually it was a cat…

I decided that today would be a reorganize day. I went through some drawers and closets and sorted out things I didn’t need or were just plain trash. I started with the upstairs flag room closet and little cupboard.

Also went through the coat closet downstairs, and reorganized the storage bins, the closet shelf, and the drawers.

While I’m typing I am watching Surprised by Love starring Paul Campbell. We all know he’s my favorite…

That’s enough for today, after doing a bunch of laundry. I should probably iron but we’ll see when I’m done here.

Scripture of the Day:

PEANUTS ?

TOMORROW January 26th is:

Dental Drill Appreciation Day; International Customs Day; National Bible Sunday; National Green Juice Day; National Spouse Day; National Peanut Brittle Day.

I DON’T Appreciate dental drills! We should celebration national Bible day. If you have a spouse, celebrate! God bless…

January has kept me on a medical treadmill, but I think I’m slowing down. I do feel like I’m on the upswing but not done with all of this quite yet. I hadn’t intended to go out today, although it’s sunny and a little warmer than it has been all week. Had a few more things recommended by my doctor yesterday. Nice to see the sun shine on the bright snow!

Nate txt me last night and they got their new freezer delivered yesterday. It’s twice the size as the old little one I gave them, and after dragging home half a cow last weekend they need it! I took my little roast out of the freezer – and tomorrow or Sunday I hope to make veggie soup. I just finished eating last week’s potato soup for lunch today.

I neglected to post a picture of the cutting board I got at the Big Lot’s Going-out-of-Business sale. The discount wasn’t too impressive yet but I really like the board.

And before I forget, a big shout out of Kathy’s friend (and mine, as well!) Mae Bee Romisher! Happy birthday, Mae! Enjoy your day! Come on back up for another visit…

I was able to get my laundry done this morning – now to finish the ironing! I’m watching a Hallmark movie and I have to say — most of the time I prefer to avoid the overly romantic movies but I’m watching The Real West — and the lead is super romantic. And the lead actress is Kimberly Sustad who is my favorite actress!

Look at this! Isn’t it the best thing ever? That would be the coolest and most comfy thing to have!!!

SCRIPTURE of the DAY:

PEANUTS ?

TOMORROW January 25th is:

A Room of One’s Own Day; Fluoride Day; Local Quilt Shop Day; National Fish Taco Day; National Florida Day; National Irish Coffee Day; National Seed Swap Day; Observe The Weather Day; Opposite Day; St. Paul Winter Carnival.

Eleven months until Christmas Day!! I have my own room; in fact I have my own house. Opposite of WHAT?? I’m not planning on a trip to Florida. I use fluoride toothpaste twice a day. Have a happy weekend and God bless.

Well, I had the last (???) medical appointment for January – that I know of. It turned out OK. I really like this doctor – we have a mutual good friend (that’s how we met) and I trust her and she’s very thorough.

So after I finished with that appointment, Chrissy met me at the house and we had lunch at Panera Bread. We both had broccoli cedar soup – and a baguette. Perfect for a cold day! We had fun chatting, too – Chrissy and her friend Hope like Thrift shopping, and I gave her the names of the three local Fleatiques that I frequent. I hope they can go soon. She’s really liking her job, and training for a management position. I’m happy to see her happy!

She sent me a picture of the dishes she found for our next Crocus Tea – it’s an entire set of vintage plates and bowls and cups and accessories. She’s very excited! They are beautiful!

After she dropped me off, I had to pop over to help Mike P with something, then picked up 2 items that I need for the weekend. I intend to spend the rest of the day typing, reading, and watching HGTV.

SCRIPTURE of the DAY:

PEANUTS?

TOMORROW January 24th is:

Just Do It Day; Beer Can Appreciation Day; Belly Laugh Day; Change a Pet’s Life Day; International Mobile Phone Recycling Day; National Compliment Day; National Peanut Butter Day.

I’ve never, ever appreciated a beer can! A simple act of kindness can change a pet’s life. We should be more generous with our compliments. Not a big fan of Peanut Butter. Happy Thursday – God bless…

I don’t think I spoke one word all day today! I did a lot of cleaning, laundry, reading… Took the trash up.

I did figure out my blood pressure monitor but readings aren’t improving. Guess I’ll have to wait and see after a few weeks on new medication.

Tomorrow morning I have my final January medical appointment at 10:15am. Then I’m supposed to have lunch with Christina! THAT I am looking forward to…

It’s been a pretty quiet day. I listened to Christmas CD’s while I cleaned and worked upstairs, and have HGTV on while I’m cleaning and doing laundry downstairs. All I have left to do is answer one email and do my little exercise routine before I have supper. I’m been continually busy but nothing major.

Scripture of the Day:

PEANUTS?

TOMORROW January 23rd is:

Clashing Clothes Day; International Sticky Toffee Pudding Day; Measure Your Feet Day; National Handwriting Day; National King Day; National Pie Day; Snowplow Mailbox Hockey Day; National Security Technician Day.

My handwriting is horrible and getting worse!. I don’t think the USPS would approve of Snowplow Mailbox Hockey. Chances are, I’ll never be King…. But I might eat a piece of warm apple pie… Stay warm and God bless!

Happy birthday Autmn Rose! I can’t believe you are 22 already, and a mother! I have loved watching you grow and learn and evolve into the beautiful young lady you are today. Keep your eyes on Jesus and live your life striving to follow Him. And teach that adorable great grandson of mine that ‘Jesus loves you’ and ‘God is Good, all the time!’

It’s still SO cold! My car thermometer said 1* on my way to work this morning. I did have a stop to make but was glad it was quick and I could be inside and warm the rest of the day. Colonial Williamsburg posted pictures of cold temps and snow – not very common for them!

I thought I was getting better at electronics – but ALAS! My blood pressure monitor came today, and I tried to set it up. Ugh. It said my blood pressure was 900 over 259 – then it said ERROR! I would hope! So I have to read the directions again. I was able to set the date and time which I feel was a good first start…

I don’t have any major projects this afternoon so I’ll work a little on some writing I started last year. As long as I can stay close to my space heater and keep warm!

Scripture of the Day:

PEANUTS?

TOMORROW January 22nd is:

Answer your Cat’s Questions Day; Come in From the Cold Day; Library Selfie Day; National Blonde Brownie Day; National Grandpa Day; National Hot Sause day; National Polka Dot Day; National Sanctity of Human Life Day (Roe vs Wade);

If I had a cat he’d probably be smarter than I am … As for Polka Dots — a favorite some of mine as a ‘child’ was Itsy, bitsy teeny weenie yellow polka dot bikini… And yes, COME IN!!!! God bless!!!

I am in the midst of listening to the Trump/Vance Inauguration, the 60th Inauguration Ceremony, for our 47th President. President Trump had amazing things to say – and I’m sure we are in for a wild ride! That is a very aggressive agenda and it will take American united to make it happen. We for sure have to trust God to lead us forward. And by the way – I think Vance is sort of cute…. 🙂

I started this morning by clearing enough of the driveway to be able to get out of it! I didn’t even have breakfast. I dressed warmly and headed up to my Doctor’s appointment which is near the hospital. The roads were not cleared and I slid through an intersection! I was very glad there were no other cars on any of the streets. The snow on my driveway and decks is piled up.

Dr. Bosley did a throat scope. Everything in my nose and throat and voice box is healthy and fine – she declared it very healthy! She reduced my one prescription from twice a day back to once a day, and discontinued one all together. I am to call her in a few weeks and update her on my condition. She’s super nice and very helpful. I left there, ‘slid’ home, and had an egg and tea for breakfast!

As soon as I finish this, I’m going to clear a little more of the driveway. I only did enough of the hill to make a safe exit this morning. We’ll see what else the day brings, in addition to some notes to mail and the ironing from my laundry load.

Scripture of the Day:

PEANUTS?

TOMORROW January 21st is:

Grama Day; International Playdate Day; International Sweatpants Day; National Check Your Coverage Day; National Cheesy Socks Day; National Granola Bar Day; National Hug Your Puppy Day; One Liners Day; Own your Own Home Day; Squirrel Appreciation Day; Thank your Mentor Day.

So fitting that tomorrow is Grama Day. This day in 2003 made me a Grama when Autmn Rose was born! Such a happy day. I have never appreciated a squirrel, really. I’m not big on sweatpants except to shovel snow; I’m more of a thick leggings girl. I am humbled and happy to own my own home! And it’s a grand thing to make a playdate! God bless…

A little snow when I got up but managed to get to church safely. Sunday School lesson was the second in Malachi. A warning from God – We’ve lost respect for God. He expects us to give something back – don’t offer scraps. Offer ourselves as a sacrifice to Him. Don’t have half-hearted faith. He’s less concerned with our actions and more concerned with our hearts. Won’t waste God’s time, and don’t lose sight of the Glory of God. Give Him your best. Focus on God Himself not on trying harder to do right. It’s not a burden; it’s a joy to love him!

I left church a little early – One of my new meds is giving me a little stomach issue and it’s uncomfortable. I came home and put on my PJ’s and made a hamburger for lunch! It was very good! Then I talked to Autmn a little while. I miss seeing her!

Today is my Monongahela friend Lynne’s birthday. We’re planning a girls day for sometime in nicer weather when the stores are open and we have ease of access in Smicksburg.

So yesterday’s Beef Day 2025. Aunt Joan and Uncle Clifford spent part of the day downstairs with us but also spent some time upstairs just taking some time out. Jason (who raised the cow) stayed and helped the whole time, as did his son Ethan and Ethan’s girlfriend Courtney. She was really nice and fits in with the family with ease and comfort. So glad to meet her! Our cow was 790 pounds and took all day to cut and wrap and make ground beef. There was Nate and Dave, Greg, Lynn and Sarah Pelc, Kathy and Sarah (Owens), and me. Here are some pictures

We got home about 7pm. I didn’t get any beef this year so I could just get something small for supper and get ready for Sunday. We accomplished our tasks well, and had fun and fellowship all day. You just can’t imagine the process until you’ve experienced it!

This morning Deb handed me a little stack of photos from my growing up years – so I’ll share some of them, too.

Scripture of the Day:

PEANUTS?

TOMORROW January 20th is:

National Buttercrunch Day; Blue Monday; Brew Monday; Camcorder Day; Elementary School Teacher Day; Inauguration Day; Martin Luther King Day; National Cheese Lovers Day; National Coffee Break Day; National DJ Day; National Penguin Day.

We had cheese yesterday but we could do it again. Penguins are cute. I don’t drink coffee but I’ll have a tea break. God bless…

I started the morning by changing sheets and gathering up all the laundry. Tomorrow will be a long, busy (but fun!) day, because tomorrow is Beef Day! And while I’m on the subject, there will probably not be a Word Garden post tomorrow.

After a quick breakfast I made a double check of the car, and headed down to Pinnacle. I am back to driving the EchoSport, which was fun and loaded with extras so I’m good with that. When I got home and had lunch I put everything back that I knew I would need in the car. Since I told Nate I’d bring my extra coolers for him, I left room for that.

Tonia got very good news at her appointment. The tumors are shrinking and one is gone. She doesn’t need treatment or surgery right now, and has a follow up MRI in April! God is Good, all the time!

I took the old, mostly-not-working lights off the back deck and threw them away. Got the new purple ones up and I really like them. Also put purple ones (that I’ve had in a box for several years) on the front deck instead of the red so they match.

Then I managed to clean off the driveway. That should do it for a few days – I hope

Autmn sent me pictures of Cameron’s first time playing in the snow! It looks like he was enjoying it. They made a snowman and each did a snow angel. Her birthday is Tuesday so I’m hoping she’ll be down next week and I can see them both.

I switched out the round clothes basket (that was too big) under the sink for this oblong basket. I think it will work better.

I still have to organize things for tomorrow, as I have to leave the house very early. So I’d best get on the ball!

Scripture of the Day:

PEANUTS?

Tomorrow, January 18th, is:

National Gourmet Coffee Day; National Peking Duck Day; National Thesaurus Day; National Use your Gift card Day; Soup Swap Day; Winnie the Pooh Day.

Tomorrow is our annual Beef Day in Smicksburg. Always fun! I’m not a coffee girl, and not a fan of Duck. Winnie the Pooh is fun! God bless…

Had to get up a little earlier so I could be at work in time to log into the webinar. It was snowing when I left the house but the roads were fine. All three of us were able to log in to the site and be ready to hear all the PENNDOT horrors! Most of it we already knew, but sometimes it’s helpful to have a reminder.

We didn’t finish until almost 1:30pm, then I had to run over to Diane’s to get the stuff she sat aside for Mary and I. She also had a Peanuts book set for me. I’ll see if there are funnies in there to share on the Word Garden.

I’m watching a movie I haven’t seen in years. In fact, I purchased it in VCR format years ago. It’s called The Love Letter and focused on the Civil War Era. Excited to be seeing it on TV!

It’s been snowing most of the day and is to snow another inch in the next hour. Tomorrow is to improve. But with the temperature 25* it’s already better!

I had to get a bunch of boxes out of my car, then take everything belonging to me out as well. Pinnacle has a customer on my car and I am switching out of it tomorrow. So I bundled up and went outside – brought the trash can down when I finished. Then I came in and made a cup of hot tea – and used my Snoopy Merry Christmas mug. I was inspired by the falling snow and the blue lights on my deck.

The lights above the sink reflect the mood outside – snowflakes!!

Scripture of the Day:

PEANUTS?

TOMORROW January 17th is:

Benjamin Franklin Day; Cable Car Day; Customer Service Day; Day of Judgment; Kid Inventors’ Day; National Hot Buttered Rum Day; Popeye Day; National Classy Day.

I respect and appreciate Ben Franklin. That will work. God bless…