Milking Cows

I just had to post this because Carrie posted a similar picture from her families recent trip to the zoo. Ha ha ha... too cute! I see they are way more sophisticated these days... they give you a bucket!

I always say... I was born to milk cows!

More Miles

I had another really great ride tonight. Oh I'm so falling in love with her all over again. She is just a gem!!!! I never before enjoyed riding her as much as I have this week! This ride was even better than the last. We went on different trails than before... mountainous hills, beautiful valleys, blazing through overgrown territory in the heart of the forrest, over logs, under branches, across the creek, and out into wide open prairie-like fields where the grass was as tall as my horse. There were some trails on posted property where my friend has permission to ride. They are extremely nice wide groomed trails where all-terrain vehicles are forbidden. This is prime hunting ground in its time. There are tree stands and such and even a few cameras that flash with motion sensors. That was a real treat... she jumped, but didn't miss a step. I think it shocked me more than her. We chuckled wondering what the land owner will say when he sees the look on our faces in those pictures.

Keith has had our camera because he was at the Pocono race last weekend. He's been taking it to work to show off his photos. I'm going to have to steal it back and take some pictures of our rides. I need to get a small saddle bag to take along such things for our rides. The last time out we saw a red-tailed hawk from very close... a few days earlier I spied a bald eagle nearby. The neighbors of the farm say there is a black bear estimated to be about 400 pounds who has frequented their property. I'm not real keen on meeting up with him, but I'm intrigued to know they are nearby.

Back In The Saddle Again

I RODE MY PONY TODAY!!!! SHE WAS A PEACH!!!! I'M ELATED!!!!

You have to understand that SHE hasn't been ridden since springtime and I haven't ridden for what... a YEAR or more!!!!

She kicked and fussed for about the first 5 minutes. I think she really hates having to wear a saddle that is tightened. We went up a really big hill and she forgot whatever it was that was annoying her. We walked the countryside for over an hour, up and down big mountainous hills, and even into the creek. I've never actually ridden her in water before, but she tramped right into it and was rather surprised to find her feet wet. She hadn't been watching where she was going, but too busy putting her nose where it didn't belong... in the butt of Sir, the horse in front of us. None the less, I am quite the proud rider. She did WAY better than I had expected all around.

I can feel tightening in my legs and shoulders already. Oh I am SO going to feel this in the morning. (But it is SO worth it!!!) I already took some precautionary tylenol! I might need a handicap spot to park tomorrow... I may or may not be able to walk... But it feels good to be so active and pursuing what I love... riding my horse.

My friend took a couple pictures when we got back. She couldn't stop talking about just how CUTE my Penny is. I know... she is... what can I say? Thanks :) I love love love her!!!! But alas I forgot to ask if she would be able to e-mail those to me or if she has to get them developed. So... if they aren't too bad... I will post them when I get them.

Tuesdays With Jen... My Memoirs

It's still early in August and we have already blown through a few birthdays in the first 4 days. Seriously, August has always been like the month of birthdays, not just for my family, but for friends and acquaintences as well. For instance, I know of at least 3 people who share my very own birthday. I know of at least 4 that share my Dad's birthday PLUS someone who celebrates an anniversary that day too.

I remember as a child celebrating the August birthdays. Mom made a tiered cake. The biggest lower level was for Grandpa's birthday (29th), then another layer for Dad's (13th), then a layer for me (17th), and a layer for Amanda (16th). I do believe she wrote our names on each layer with icing. That was a cool idea Mom.

When Amanda introduced me to John, who is now her husband. I liked him for two reasons. 1) He opened both my car door and hers (gentleman) and more significantly 2) We share our birthday - August 17th. COOL!

I always thought it would be really cool to have a gigantic birthday bash in the month of August and invite everyone I know who has a birthday this month... but alas it's never happened. Maybe because its mid-summer and everyone is so busy with summer activities? Vacations? Farm Show? Fairs? Etc. And now starting to prepare for back-to-school already!

So let me give a big shout out to all my August Birthday Pals!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!!

Blessings Monday

We recently got a letter from my Aunt who lives in Arizona. I try to keep in touch with her by writing occasional letters. She is not physically well these days, so it is a challenge for her to return a written response, although I know that she loves to exchange letters.

The letter explained the multiple physical barriers she is enduring at this stage in her life. She is basically bed-ridden and relies on her husband to cook, clean, and care for her.

Along with the letter was an unexpected gift of money with a note to buy something that we have both been wanting. Oh the possibilities. Oh the fun in dreaming them up! We sat on it and prayed on it for a while.

As we were preparing for our incoming guests last week, we decided what things we have both been wanting... a new area rug and a small tv stand for the living room. Our living room decor includes deep red walls, a grey couch, white full length curtains, and some black accent pieces of furniture.

The correspondence and the gift were appreciated blessings. We are grateful to have the opportunity to splurge on a little something that we have been wanting. THANK YOU!!!! God is SO good and provides in such unforseen ways. I love it!!!

Do you have blessings to share? Stop over to Down On The Farm and share with us! Thanks Marci for hosting once again.

Sneak-Peak Sunday

Handy Hubby has been at the Nascar Race in the Poconos all weekend. I've talked to him a couple of times and he is bubbling over with excitement. He got a lot of autographs, including Keifer Sutherland, the grand marshall for the race and a bunch of drivers too. He's on his way home now... I'm glad he was able to go. He really enjoys that stuff.

Why wasn't I at the race? Well, I had committed to attending a Beth Moore conference that was being held in Louiseville, KY and in over 700 locations world-wide via simalcast. Myself and four other ladies from church signed up to attend at another local church a couple months ago. If you aren't familar with Living Proof Ministries, follow the link and get acquainted. What I love about Beth Moore is that she is so very real. Her work is not about her. It's about God and she takes absolutely NO credit for her work. She speaks most specifically to women with a humorous, down-to-earth attitude. She's comical and sincere... and it was a fantastic weekend of praise and study. AND... I love that I ran into my very own physician in attendance. It's nice to know that your PCP is a godly person. I knew that about her before, but it was more confirmation to see her actively seeking the truth... right before my eyes. Just to share one simple key point from the program that has settled deep within my heart... Guard your heart because Satan is seeking to snatch the word from it and HE CANT HAVE IT!!!! I never thought of it quite like that before. The Lord tells us to write his word on our heart so we do not depart from it, but it is true that Satan seeks to take our focus from that. Simple, yet profound.

What else have I done??? I spend some more time in study and prayer. Relaxed. Enjoyed the peace and quiet. Let the birds out for a bit. They are silly... they put themselves back in their cage. I watered the plants. Did some laundry. Met Amanda and John for dinner and chat. I was thinking about doing some work, but never did. I see I'm getting a ton of spam on my work e-mail, so I didn't want to open it up at home. I get it on my Blackberry. That's how I know it's there.

So now it's late on Sunday. It's time to call it a day and kiss the weekend goodbye. My darling husband will be home sometime between now and the crack of dawn... probably closer to the latter. I missed him so much.

An Award

I am very humbled to have been granted a blogger award. Thank you Marcie at Down On The Farm. You are so kind!

Once an award is received,the rules are as follows:

1. Put the logo on your blog .

2. Add a link to the person who awarded you.

3. Nominate at least 7 other blogs.

4. Add links to those blogs on your blog.

5. Leave a message for your nominees on their blog.

I am delighted to share this award with the following ladies whose blogs I read regularly and find to be uplifting, interesting, and absolutely worthwhile. Check them out for yourselves!

1. Lizzies Home - For brilliant writing style
2. The Homespun Heart - For brilliant insight into hospitable living
3. With All That I've Been Given - For brilliant cookie recipes
4. Renaissance - For brilliant photography
5. Praise And Coffee - For brilliant daily devotions
6. Scribbit - For brilliant ideas, giveaways, and recipes
7. Making A House A Home - For brilliant ideas on homemaking

I love these ladies! You will too! Thanks again Marcie, for you would have been on my list too if you had not already been granted the award!

Blessings Monday

Our little nephew is quite the blessing! Only a couple days with him and we found ourselves giggling, singing, watching Barney, and chasing the little guy. We didn't have to compete for his attention. He gave it freely. His smile lights up the room. He's very chatty and opinionated at that. He was infatuated with our refrig, though he never took anything out. He just wanted to open and close it.

We are so blessed to have had some special time with this little guy. What a grand blessing.

Check out other Blessings Monday posts at Down On The Farm. C'mon, you have something to share don't you?! Thanks for hosting Marcie.

The Reason For The Trip

I just wanted to see a hippopotomus. I remember seeing one a LONG LONG LONG LONG time ago at the Pittsburgh Zoo. These truly are interesting creatures. I loved when it would submerge itself in the water. It would stay under for several minutes, then circle around and look at the onlookers... and do it again. We watched it for a good long time. I don't know why, but I have been wanting to see one of these for a long time. When we heard that there was one at the Cleveland Zoo, we decided it was time to pay them a visit.


It's really a huge zoo. If you can go, do it. We were there a good 7 hours and were never bored. There is also an indoor rain forest, which is pretty neat.

These Ones Are NOT Pets!!!!

We went on a little weekend trip to the Cleveland Metropolitan Zoo last weekend... or was it the weekend before? I can't remember. Anyway, it was a grand time. We had a weekend long date. Fantastic!!! We got to pet the stingrays and a shark. that was really neat! Keith got to feed the seals some fish and also some nectar to the birds... very cool! I really like the camels. I rode one when we were on our first date (at the Cincinatti Zoo). They had camel rides, but I passed on that this time. It is a really cool experience though. I recommend that everyone try it at least once.

Tweeters

We have had a bird cage for a long time. We recently decided to fill it. The blue parakeet is named "Gonzo" and the yellow is "Sunshine" although Amanda says we should have named her "Beaker." That would have been appropriate, but Sunshine fits her so well. Maybe the next one Manda.

They are easy to care for. Sometimes they are messy with their food, but I keep the shop vac nearby, so clean up is a cinch. Keith is trying to teach them to talk. All the literature says it is possible to teach them, but it might take a long time. I can positively report that at least one of them attempts to mock K's whisteling like a cat-call at them.

We let them out to fly every couple of days. The cats enjoy watching them, but surprisingly have not bothered them... at least not that we have noticed. So far they are good pets.

Say CHEESE!!!!

Is it just me or does it look like this big grizzly guy is posing for photos? Maybe it's his "senior portraits" ???

Ponies Parks and Zoo... What more could a little boy want?!

Penny & Sir

Slippery Slides at the Park

Petting Kangaroos!

Our nephew, Hayden, and his mother (of course) payed us a visit this weekend. His proud Uncle Keith spoiled him rotten!!! First was a trip to the Pittsburgh Zoo... then Aunt J.J. took him to pet the ponies (and even sit on one)... and then the picnic dinner at the park! He left this morning with his new black-bear-back-pack, bug puzzle, and other goodies. We don't get to see him but a couple times each year so we are most impressed that at 2 years old he even knows our names... What a delight. His mom is quite aware that we are glad to visit with her, but the main attaction is the little-one. We were sad to see them go this morning.

Blessings Monday

I have recently been blessed with a little R&R. Oh how I long for that, especially during the summer months. While most families are planning excursion for mid-summer, I find myself so swamped at work that taking time off would simply make more stress for me upon return. None the less, Handy Hubby and I were BOTH off Friday and Saturday and we made the most of it!

Thursday evening we packed a few things, made some reservations, and hit the road. First stop, Bruno's Pizzaria, for dinner. They have the best italian dinners for very reasonable prices. Next stop, Cleveland, Ohio. We splurged on a hotel room, which is not something we frequently do... but it was oh-so-worth-it! We asked for a King size bed, but they said we'd have to take a room with two-doubles. Fine. But when we arrived they DID have a room with a King size bed and it was on the Concierge Floor. I never heard of such a thing, but we quickly learned that those on the Concierge Floor had a private lounge with complimentary snacks and non-alcoholic beverages. They did have a full bar, do-it-yourself, on the honor system to be billed to the room. These accomodations were WAY more than we asked for!!! The hotel room was clean, and very comfortable.

While we were in Cleveland, we visited the Cleveland Metro-park Zoo, the Botanical Gardens, and the Natural History Museum. More on those later.

I just need to say that it was a fantastic trip. Keith says I slept too much at the Hotel, but I'm telling you... R&R is what this girl needed! I am so blessed to have the time to spare and a few extra bucks in my pocket for such an occasion. The weather was sunny, comfortable, and the company was fantastic.

Do you have blessings to share? Stop over to Down On The Farm and share with us! Thanks Marci for hosting once again.

p.s. I found my camera!!! Pictures are forthcoming!!!

Thankful Thursday

I am thankful for the season of summer... and I never thought I'd say that. I am not actually a big fan of hot and sticky weather, but this summer has been rather pleasant I think. We have had a good mix of rain, sunshine, and breezy days. I think the lack of drought definitely makes a world of difference in the season.

I'm grateful that the Lord created seasons and has allowed me to live in an area where I may witness the changes in a significant way. My favorite season is fall because the weather is comfortable and the leaves change so beautifully. My next favorite is spring because after a long time of cold and dreary comes new life springing forth in abundance. Summer and winter have always been a toss-up for me. I like the snow as long as the sun is shining and the wind isn't blowing. But summers like this year... gotta love it.

I like to participate in Thankful Thursday, but I'm not always good at linking up. Thank you Peggy for reminding me. Usually it's because I'm in a time-crunch of sorts... But I do want to recognize the host, Iris over at Sting My Heart and invite ya'll to participate as well. Check it out!!!

Workplace Humor

I have to tell these true stories, N-O-T because I have a big head, but because I can see the humor in them...

This was my conversation with the VP whom my boss answers to. You know... the bosses boss.

Dr M: Jennifer, have you ever taken the personality test over in Human Resources?

Me: What personality test? I didn't know there was such a thing.

Dr M: Would you mind stopping over there and taking it?

Me: Um... is there a problem with my personality?

Dr M: No

Me: Is this a trick? Or a trap?

Dr M: No, we want to use it as a prototype for when we look for the new hire in the Department.

Me: Oh (giggle), that is very flattering. Thank you. But... Ok.

An hour later I'm conversing with a colleague at another institution. We are discussing the upcoming job posting for my Department... my conceited remark... "They want to clone me!" HA!!!

Moments later we are discussing how our work-load pretty much doubles in the summer months...

Me: It's crazy that we cannot take a summer vacation because there is too much work. I (sarcastically) told my boss that I'm planning to take vacation for the whole month of June next year.

Joe: How'd that go over?

Me: He said I had to go through him and then he laughed. I'm shocked! I'm giving him a years notice! A whole year I tell ya!

Joe: You know... if you timed it right you could take maternity leave.

Me: (laughing hysterically) Why didn't I think of that!!!??? I gotta go tell my boss!

Update... the boss laughed, shook his head, and said "WOW"

Tuesdays With Jen... My Memoirs

Since Saturday was the close of the annual Big Butler Fair, I thought it most appropriate to take ya'll back to my roots that once ran through that stomping ground. I was an exhibitor at the fair on numerous occasions. I had some friends who I stayed with who, now looking back, were probably not the best role models, but hey... it was a good time.

I showed my horse... a couple years Magnium, and after Penny came... her and her mother... AND Duke, my friends horse who is a smidge younger than Penny. We won many ribbons and a few bucks, but never enough to pay for the weeks worth of fun. But who's counting?!

When Penny was one year old, she went for her first trailer ride, it was an absolute disaster. A friend had a smaller two-horse trailer and agreed to haul her. It didn't take too long to get her into the trailer. She was fine. I was to follow to be sure that all was fine. About a third of a mile down the road she had a little meltdown. Oh my goodness!!!! I stopped my truck and was running down the road yelling S-T-O-P as loud and as frantic as I could. She had reared and got a foot into the manger, broke the snap, and somehow ended up with one hind leg over the divider and one broke through under it. She was pinned on her side. We were able to move the divider and free her legs so she could stand up. She was probably in shock, as was I. We decided that if we took her off the trailer that she would probably not ever want to get back on. So I tied her with two ropes and we tried again. This time we made it and she hauled fairly well. Lucky for her, she only had some very minor injuries. She scraped her leg a little and had a one-inch cut over her eye, but that's pretty much it. Poor thing.

The week was a success. We showed and we won... and when it was time to go home we had an alternative ride. I was worried about getting her on the ride home so I blindfolded her and practiced walking her all around. I purposely took her over logs so she would learn to lift her feet when I commanded. She learned really quick and was quite willing to lean on me without a fuss. When I walked her up to the trailer I said "UP" and she initially stepped up, except it was a ramp and she fell the rest of the way in. She landed in a nice big fluffy bed of shavings... and she didn't try to get up until I took the blindfold off. She has loaded and hauled quite well ever since.

This photo is duke, a year younger than Penny. He's so much more mature these days! He's still one of my favorite rides too!

Fantastic Summer Give-Away

Check out Monica's blog at The Homespun Heart for her Fun Summer Give-away! She's convinced Lands End to offer a generous gift-card because she really likes their swim suits... Stop over and enter for a chance to be one lucky winner!

My favorite is the Women's Regular 3-piece Dot Paisley Halter Tankini Swimsuit but you know... I'm into pink!

Where are the pictures?

I cannot find my camera. Has anyone seen it? UGH! I had all intentions of taking pictures of Penny last week, but couldn't find the camera. This evening I spent some time just brushing her and scratching her belly which she oh so loves! (you have no idea!) But no camera! Gosh, she was all prettied up too. Hmph!

Picked up a saddle, bridle, etc. from Rene'e's tonight. It feels kind of weird and a little bit sad taking those things and moving them to the new place. If I had already had those things on hand I could have rode her tonight. Hmmm... I need boots, helmet, jeans or riding pants, some fly spray and some leather cleaner for the saddle. I'm excited to be close to being back in the saddle; however I still miss riding with my pal, Rene'e.

Anyway... still looking for the camera. I wonder if I left it in her truck from the trip??? But I thought it was in the car? Oh I'm so confused.

Blessings Monday

As we come down off the high of celebrating the birth of our nation, it seems fitting to proclaim thankfulness for the blessing of freedom. As my pastor said this morning, freedom is a biblical topic. Christ offers us freedom from sin... that being bigger and better than the freedoms we usually recognize.

Those who fought and are fighting for the well-being of our country deserve to be honored. Thank you Dad. Thank you Keith. And thank you to other friends, family, and fellow American soldiers. My heart warms with patriotism at the thought of how the two closest men in my life took the time to serve our country. The freedom you protect is a precious blessing.

To realize the freedom we have in Christ is also very humbling. What a blessing we have in him! For God deserves the glory all the more!

Come join us at Blessings Monday hosted by Down On The Farm.

Tuesdays With Jen... My Memoirs

A few things I remember about my Magnium...

• He was probably my bestest friend growing up. He loved me. He thrived on the attention I gave him. We traveled many many miles together.


• He used to give me kisses on the cheek.


• His favorite treat was Pecan Sandies.


• We won some ribbons at the Fair and also at some little shows


• One time he was so full of spunk that he actually chased after the dog, Peaches!


• He was injured when he fell onto a stick. He had to have stitches. I was in shock and hyperventilating when I called the vet. He has a scar, but fully recovered.


• One time he ran away with me and crossed the road infront of a car at a full gallop... that was scary!


• Another time we were riding around the pond in the woods behind the airport and a goose tried to attack because we were too close to her nest... not a pleasant experience. We outran the goose!


• There's nothing like lying back on your horse after dark at the foot of the runway watching the little planes come in overhead.


• I rode him to school on two separate occasions and 'parked' him in the agriculture department.


• I could ride after dark because my Magnium knew the way home.


• Mom... I rode across Route 8... a few times! AND we sometimes rode to the Dairy Queen for ice cream.


• I rode to McCormicks frequently where we would stop for drinks, snacks, and of course... carrots.


• Sometimes in the summer we would gallop into the creek in Renfrew full speed ahead. It was like something you'd see in the movies... water splashing everywhere. It was also refreshing.


• I knew my way on the trails as far as Saxonburg, Mars, Evans City, or Renfrew and sometimes saw more than one of those locations in one days travel.


• One time I was riding with some people that were drinking. I got off for some reason and let go of him and he ran home without me! That was not his brightest moment.


• Mr Helfer used to save a special box of apples inside his garage for when we rode by... he'd spoil the horse.


• When I was a senior in highschool I needed to run a mile for gym class. I practiced by jogging beside Magnium every night after school.


• My most memorable experience... I was riding with Rene'e back behind Browns. There was a hot air balloon and I said "Awesome, let's gallup up underneath it." (not my brightest idea) We did and when we got right up to the top of the hill they blew the hot air. Magnium reared straight up and I slipped right off the back of him.

Blessings Monday

We have been blessed with beautiful flowers. We decided early on this spring that we would not spend a fortune on landscaping and the like. Who knew we would have more flowers than we needed? We carefully collected marigold seeds last year and planted those. I had a couple packets of seeds that came free in the mail. Last year's rose bloomed abundantly. Rene'e gave us about a dozen more flowers to plant. Amanda gave us a handful of flowers too AND a burning bush taboot. I did pick up a hanging basket at work for $15 and a flat of impatiens from a church fundraiser for $13. Keith treated the yard to rid us of dandilions for $8. He put in a new rose bush for $10 and a Red Lady bush for $30. All in all we spent less than $100 on the yard this year.

I also have one tomato plant and some herbs growing on the porch. SOMEDAY I may have a legitimate garden.

I am grateful to have these plants surrounding our home. They are beautiful and good for the environment. We are so blessed to have an abundance of flowers this year.

Come join us at Blessings Monday hosted by Down On The Farm.

Road Trip

Sorry... no pictures. I didn't have batteries on the way down, but then I got some and it rained pretty bad all the way home. I'm looking like a drowned rat at the moment, but I'm soaring with gratitude for the return of my pony after 2 whole years apart. WOW - I can't believe she's home!!!!

We left Friday after work. We drove to Cincy, arrived pretty late, but had a nice warm place to lay our heads at my inlaws. Mom and Jim were glad to have us even if the visit was short. I am grateful for the rest and Mom made a really nice breakfast for us and gave me a go-cup of coffee for the road. She's so thoughtful.

By the way, Mom is doing great! She is actually back to work! She looks great and we are so thankful for her recovery.

This morning we drove from Cincy to Wilmore (near Lexington). We snuck into the IGA in town and picked up a few cans of Skyline Chili and Ale-8 soda (which we cannot buy where we live). Shortly thereafter we arrived at the stable, where the stable-worker handed her over with some necessary paperwork for travel. After filling some containers with water to offer her on the road, she walked right on the trailer without any glitch and off we went! I was beaming!!! (and still am)

The drive home was long. We stopped 3 or 4 times to fuel and offer her some water. Every time I opened the trailer door she would whinny. She was alert, vocal, and begging for attention (and carrots). She was not sweaty or nervous... she rode like a champ! Whatta girl!

So we arrived home 8 hours after picking her up... 11 hours total travel today. We ran into a few patches of nasty rain on the way home, but the rain cooled things off so it was actually not too uncomfortable for her to travel.

We walked her into the barn where she met her three new pals. Two of them were in stalls and the third was loose, kind of having the run of the barn. I slipped her into the stall and she, of course, immediately wanted to greet Rambo, who sauntered over to do the same. She squealed and then she acted like she was in heat. They groomed each other and squealed a little off and on and she even kicked a little too, but overall she is settling in nicely. We put up a new run of fence that separates the two pastures so she can be in one while the other three are in the other.

Tomorrow she will be led around the fence to show her the fence line. There is a lot of green grass there, so I hope she doesn't eat too much of it. I may need to get her a grazing muzzle. I hate to do that because when she wears a halter, it usually rubs. I don't like to leave a halter on her if I don't have to. Anyway... she fits right in at this farm and actually adds a very pretty color to the palate of the little herd.

Can I just say that my friend Rene'e... she rocks!!!! I love her so so much. If it weren't for her, I would not have been able to bring Penny home. If it were not for her, I would not have gotten her back in the first place. Rene'e is entirely gracious. She didn't have the time to spare to do this, but she did it anyway. I'm very humbled, grateful, thankful, and appreciative of her.

As I left the farm and drove towards home, there was a gigantic and boldly colored double rainbow over town. I thought to my self... God is so so good... doubly good. I thanked him many times this evening. His faithfulness has been displayed in my life over and over. The separation over the past couple years was weighing heavy on my heart. God knows... and he faithfully offered me the desires of my heart... to bring her home. He displayed that rainbow so brightly reminding me of his promises. God is SO GOOD!!!

Thankful Thursday

I am thankful for pleasant weather, especially yesterday. We baled hay last night. Usually it is sweltering hot for the task, but last night it was pleasant and breezy. We know the hot-hot-hot is actually better for the hay, but for the sake of the workers... I am thankful that it was comfortable.

Summer In Full Swing

This has been a busy summer as usual, but also very pleasant. I'm enjoying the flex in the weather... hot, rain, cooler, warmer, etc. With summer comes summer chores. You know, the ones that are dreaded yet are somehow fulfilling and surprisingly rewarding. The kind that make you realize what a real days work is. Yes it's hay-making-time, for the second time now. We shall make hay TODAY! And when that's all finished I will go help a friend put in a couple new fence posts. I will return to my home covered head to toe in chaf, with heaviness in my chest from all the dust, and probably an achy body taboot. Ahhhh... Tis the season.

Tuesdays With Jen - My Memoirs

I have to make it short, so I'll just record a couple remembrances from my youth...

• I used to go to the barn with my "Grampy" to help with the milking (aka play in the hay). He would fill his feed sack half full, swing it over his back, then I'd jump on top and he'd carry me down the steps that way. I can only imagine how difficult that was, but actually I think he liked it.
• We had a pony named Sugarfoot but we only rode her in the summer. She was ornery and threw a bucking fit the first time every year. I decided I liked her and was sad that she passed on when I was in 4th grade, but not until I had pretty much rode her into the ground.
• When I was 15 my pediatrician gave me a horse, which fulfilled a deep down longing desire that had lingered on substantially since Sugarfoot died. Storm was a palomino saddlebred. I was in my glory!! Coincidentally, that same pediatrician is now my landlord.

That's all for today. I have to keep it short. I should mention that Penny is STILL in Kentucky. We were unable to go for her because the trailer brakes were not working properly. We decided to postpone until last Saturday, but the mechanic was not yet finished with it. SO... the plan is to go THIS weekend. Really... I'll believe it when the time comes! I'm still excited, but also a smidge disappointed. On the flip side, I PAID a hefty fee for her that is supposed to cover her board through JUNE and I should probably go ahead and use up as much of that as I can. Although the price of gas is also driving a desire to waste no time for fear the price continues to rise.

OK - I must go to work. Have a lovely day all... enjoy it and rejoice for it is the day which the Lord has made!

Blessings Monday

Life has been a little bit too overwhelming these days and that has caused a blogging hiatus on my part. I shall try to keep up with an occasional post, but it seems that it may be at least another month or so before things settle.

Today is Blessings Monday and that is my favorite weekly post (when I make it). So here it goes...

I am greatly blessed by my friend Rene'e. She is one of the greatest friends ever. She is family. She goes out of her way, above and beyond, to look out for me and the things that are close to my heart. We share a lot of special things and I am so grateful for her place in my life.

May God bless her richly today and always.

Don't YOU have a blessing to share? Come join us at Blessings Monday hosted by Down On The Farm.

Can I Just Say???

God is SO GOOD!!!!

I'm going to get my Penny on Wednesday. Please pray for safe and speedy travel. It's going to be a L-O-N-G day!!! We are planning to make a round trip which should be about 16 hours without stops.

Praise the Lord for providing for this!!! AWESOME!!! His timing is perfect! No more pining over her absence... My dream of her return is about to come true!

I'm like a child at Christmas!!! I can't wait!!!

Blessings Monday - Answered Prayers

It's "Blessings Monday" and today I'd like to share the blessing of answered prayers. My heart is joyful because of answered prayers...

A couple things I've been praying over in the preceding weeks:

• K's Mom has markedly improved. Her bout with menengitis, pulmonary emboli, and emergency surgery resulted in a month-long hospital stay. Many thanks to all our friends and family praying for her recovery. It has been a trialsome time, but she is home and healing with an expected long road of recovery ahead. K has been visiting each week for a day or two to help around the house, provide some one-on-one support for both Mom & Jim and to witness the answering of praying in action. Many more thanks to our Lord of Healing who has graciously granted improving health for Mom and incredible peace for all of us during this difficult time.


• I have so missed my pony for two years. I have pined over her absence in my life. Sometimes I would sit and stare at her photo with tears streaming down my face. She's been on loan to a college equine program in Kentucky. Her arrival there was through precarious circumstances. We had left her with a family who had to leave unexpectedly and thus they handed her over to the college. The college was aware that I could not retrieve her at the time for financial reasons mostly. I had no home for her and no money for transport. I re-connected with the college recently and they insisted that if I'd like to have her back that I have to pay them board for the 2 years she was there. It would have been nice for them to tell me this upfront, but at the present time this is a mute point. I expressed my disappointment to the Director who agreed to cut the board expense to half, which is still slapping me with a $2400 boarding bill. I prayed and prayed for wisdom and discernment. Taxes this year put us under pretty badly... then there was the emergency expenses for car repair and travel. After much deliberation we agreed that we would take the plunge, pay the price, and bring my baby home. Even once the bill was paid I had no idea how I would haul her or where I would keep her. My bestest friend has stepped in to fill those gaps. She has secured a great home for her with a lady who is also an acquaintance of mine AND we three will likely go for her before the end of June. I'm thrilled! I'm delighted! I'm relieved! I'm like a kid at Christmas who knows I'm about to get the gift of my dreams! God is so good!

God is so gracious and his blessings are abundant. I have trusted in Him and He has responded kindly. If you'd like to bless many by sharing or be blessed by reading about other's blessings, head on over to Amazing Graze Farm and join us!

WFMW

What Works-For-Me this week????

I have one of those Scrubbing Bubbles shower spray cleaner. When the bottle of cleaner is empty, I refill it with my own cleaning agent. (usually vinegar/water/baking soda) It leaks a little at first because there is no seal to break, but it works just as well as the latter. Occasionally I buy the replacements, but really... why should we?

And that is what works for me this week!

Hit-up Rocks In My Dryer for more fantastic ideas.

Tuesdays With Jen... My Memoirs

So we were planning a wedding!!! How exciting!!! We set the date, September 2, 2000 and booked the church and the reception hall. Our church has a wedding coordinator who only charged $50 to coordinate the entire ceremony at the church. Now there was $50 well spent.

We attended "marriage classes" with the pastor for several weeks before we tied the knot. Something he taught us was that we have to establish a plan for dealing with conflict. I've often wondered what that plan is in our life as I'm not sure we ever actually solidified that part. I am certain that we have had our share of conflict and it has taken some years to learn how to deal with each other in the midst of it. Something we learned about 2 years ago was that sometimes we fight because when one of us has an issue the other tries to fix it. We expend great efforts in offering solutions and suggestions. What we had failed to realize is that sometimes we just need to be heard! Imagine that!!! I can honestly say that this was a huge breakthrough in our relationship! We now are able to just tell the other "I'm not looking for solutions." and obviously that's our cue to SHUT UP and LISTEN! Anyway... I am certain that the Pastor had a good point; however I wish he could have offered some practical solutions at the time.

Anyway... We set out to plan the details of the wedding and reception. We asked our closest friends and family to participate... My baby sister was to be the Maid of Honor, then my two bestest girlfriends Rene'e and Chrissy, and of course his two sisters, Tammy and Denise were to be bridesmaids. We asked my brother Paul and brother in law Cory to be ushers as well as K's cousin Shawn and another two of my bestest friends, Ed and Dan. We didn't have a best man, we had a best lady... K's best friend Kelly. There was a flower girl, Joyce and a Ring-bearer, Paul (brother and sister).

I'll never forget asking my friend Ed (now deceased) if he would be an usher in my wedding. I took him to our favorite spot, the Dairy Queen, for ice cream. I think he was shocked! Of course he would have to find someone to milk his cows that night, but he was delighted to do so for such an occasion. I'm so glad he accepted and shared greatly in the celebration of our wedding with us.

I found these exquisite dresses in the JCPenney catalog and just HAD to have my bridesmaids wear them. As it goes, we had two different dresses. One was a plum colored suit-dress and the other a long navy blue A-line style dress. The men were to wear black tuxes with silver-gray vests.

I was obsessed with daisies at the time. They were well incorporated into the wedding preparations. There were tiny daisies for the bridesmaids to don upon their up-dos. There were daisy flowers galore. AND... I just happened to find the most perfect unity candle with DAISIES on it!!! I was delighted.

I made special time to shop for my gown. My grandmother, bless her heart, accompanied me to the bridal shoppe. It was a really special date. This was a time when I wanted so desperately to connect with a womanly figure in my life and none better than my Gram-ditties. When we arrived, I told her that I really liked tulle, more so than the satin dresses. She pointed out a plethora of dresses each unique, but specifically only those which met the specifications I had set forth... to have lots of tulle. She was a great listener I guess. It didn't matter which I should choose, for she would be delighted to see me in any of them. I narrowed it down to two different dresses and she helped me select the most perfect one. It was ivory, off the shoulders, and had plenty of tulle... of course. I shall never forget the loving tears in her eyes to see me model my wedding gown. There we were, just she and I... precious moments to cherish forever.

Meanwhile we found a really reasonable caterer who vowed to provide a delicious meal for a reasonable price. It was the caterer's idea to have the wedding party serve the cake after the meal. It made perfect sense... they were the first to eat and thus the first to finish eating. AND... they had a grand time doing so.

We booked a DJ and order flowers... K's Step-Mother ordered our invitations. She is a wedding coordinator herself. Of course... they had daisies on them! Who would have guessed!? I bought jelly jars, ribbon, and fresh cut flowers. Grandma and Aunt Jane prepared the jars of flowers for the tables. We made favors... ordered balloons... collected RSVPs and solidified plans for the big day.

There is so very much that goes into planning a wedding. There were things that HE wanted and things that I wanted and things that we had to collaborate on. But I have to tell you that my wedding day was the funnest day of my entire life. And... maybe next week I'll clue you in on the details of that special day!

Blessings Monday

If I keep up with nothing else, I should at least keep up with proclaiming my thankfulness for abundant blessings... even just once each week!

We ride the roller coaster of discontent on an ongoing basis. You might call it trying to keep up with the Joneses, but that's not truly it. There are those things in life that come later for some of us... for us it is having our own home. Some things occurred to me this past week...

If we had bought the house we wanted to buy 2 years ago, we would have likely foreclosed by now given the status of the interest rates nationwide. Our lender was insisting that we have a flexible rate mortgage... boy am I thankful that God blessed us by NOT giving us that home.

If we had bought the house we are currently living in, we would likely be in similar dire straights as the aformentioned. This place needs a LOT of repairs and the property taxes are outrageous. I'm really glad that God blessed us with a generous landlord who lets us make changes and improvements to the house as we please and who keeps the rent affordable so we can pay our other debts in preparation for what blessing God may have in store for us in the years to come.

A couple weeks ago some friends of ours house was struck by lightning and burned it very badly. It's so bad that it will likely be demolished and completely rebuilt. As K and I sat one evening on our couch watching tv and eating pizza, it occurred to me that our friends have no tv, no couch, not even a plate to eat off of... much less a home. Sometimes the circumstances of others makes us realize how blessed we really are to have this home and all these belongings. What an eye opening experience.

So today I am counting the blessing of our home. I may have counted this blessing before, maybe even multiple times; however, a home of our own is something that we desire so greatly. It takes but a moment for that desire to expand into discontent... and then we day-dream about our someday home and go on to plan our future and how great it will be. That is dangerous behavior! That is why I must often remind myself of what precious blessings we have right here and now. Sure I dream of days to come, but I must keep the perspective that I should dream of fulfilling the Lord's plans for me... not my own. And folks... don't forget to enjoy the moments of TODAYS blessing!

If you'd like to bless many by sharing or be blessed by reading about other's blessings, head on over to Amazing Graze Farm and join us!

Works For Me Wednesday

Coupons

Saturday and Sunday are the busiest days at Starbucks. But every weekend the store puts out a complimentary newspaper (or two). There is a little basket by the door where they put them. So usually on Saturday and/or Sunday, when I stop by to say "hey" to my Handy-Hubby... I check the basket and take the coupons. The papers are there... free for the taking. I'm delighted to be able to double up on a lot of coupon clipping this way.

My sister also shares her extra coupons. Wahoo!!! Triple the fun!!!

And that's what works for me... Got an idea to share for WFMW? Head on over to Rocks In My Dryer and link up, and/or peruse the other multitude of ideas.

Tuesdays With Jen... My Memoirs

In May of 1999, Keith was in his sister's wedding. It was held in the Cincinatti area in a Presbyterian church. The night before was the rehersal and rehersal dinner. The dinner was catered and served in the fellowship hall of the church. His sister wore entirely white attire to the rehersal activities. I'm not sure why I remember that so vividly, but I do. She was very pretty.

The following day K's Mom, grandmother, and I went to Dillards to have our hair and nails done. This was my very first 'outing' of sorts with his mother. She got all fancied up and I had the hair dresser make mine with big curls. It was a nice time.

The wedding was grand. The bridal gown was simple yet elegant with a lovely veil of white. She was stunning. The brides maids wore satin mint-green dresses that were also very beautiful. Of course the men, and my soldier man, were decked out in tuxedos for the event. The wedding was simple and elegant.

The reception was (I think) near Covington, KY maybe??? I'm not really sure. It was at a community center that had lots and lots of windows surrounding the dining hall. The cake was three tiered with pearl accents. K's grandmother had made centerpieces for the tables. They were castles made out of sugar cubes. It was really sweet... pun intended! There were lots of white twinkle lights. The food was delicious. The DJ played late into the night. We danced, danced, and danced some more.

It was a lovely time. We are nearing the time of their anniversary as the weeks press on in May. The wedding was a memorable occasion and only one of many family affairs I was to attend with my soldier in the years to come.

Blessings Monday

I would just like to say that I have the greatest boss ever! When we needed to leave in a jiffy to be with K's Mom, George (my boss) went out of his way to make sure I wasn't worried about work. It was a Saturday and on Monday there was to be a big meeting. I had planned to work Sunday afternoon to complete the files for the meeting, tie up loose ends, and oh... type the minutes from last months meeting. Oops! When I explained all that was left un-done to George, he encouraged me to think not a bit about it and to get on my way. He went that Saturday and worked on these things. When Monday came, we spoke briefly via telephone, and he proceeded to do every detail that needed to be done for the meeting. Except maybe cleaning the tables with Spic N' Span like I do for my guys... I can't help it. I spoil them! HA! When I returned everything was in its place. Everything was accounted for. He did it all... and I am so very grateful for that. I am blessed to have a good boss... a Christian man who is family oriented and appreciates me as an employee and friend. Thank God for George.

If you'd like to bless many by sharing or be blessed by reading about other's blessings, head on over to Amazing Graze Farm and join us!