Works For Me On Wednesday

I don’t have much… but how about these virtual stick-it notes on the new computer.  I love them.  I know without any doubt that my Handy Hubby will use the computer every morning.  So… I leave him little notes there. 

 

… and that’s what works for me!

Tuesday’s With Jen

Let’s see… what do I remember from my youth?  I recently ran into a young lady who years and years ago was a little girl who wanted to ride my horse.  She rode Magnium in at least one of the classes at the Fair show.  When her mother spotted me at the Christmas party, she proclaimed “There’s Magnium’s mother!”  How fond I was of my Magnium.  He was a safe ride for a young teen, myself.  What a good horse he was.  He took me far and wide.  Farther and wider than my parents might have ever imagined.  When I sold him I was heart broken.  I remember my own mother asking me if I’d made a mistake.  That wasn’t any help.  When the big truck came for him, he jumped right on.  I visited him on various occasions, mostly at horse shows where his new owners took him. 

 

I understand that he now lives in Ohio… if he’s still alive.  He’d be rather ancient in horse years now. 

 

He was a good horse.  I miss him. 

Blessings Monday

It’s been SOOOO long since I could actively participate in Blessings Monday. So, it seems fitting to count the blessing of our new computer!!!! Yay!!! We are back online and wireless now!!! Saweet!!!

Marci over at Down On The Farm hosts this weekly forum asking one and all to count their blessings and share them. C’mon over and count your blessings too!

Sneak Peak Sunday

Well, the last week has been so cluttered with this and that.  I’m not even sure I can recap it all. Nor do I think I should try. 

 

I’m very much looking forward to continuing the celebration of Christmas with my parents, brother, sister-in-law, and their precious littles this afternoon.  I’ve got a baking dish full of stuffed shells in the oven that we’ll take along to share. 

 

We also hope to connect with the Zombeck family this evening as we have a little something for them too… he he he! 

 

Note to self:  need to get batteries!  if you don’t get batteries, there will be no picture taking tonight!

 

And here’s a little photo that I didn’t get to share months ago.  We celebrated our birthdays in style by dining at a fancy restaurant in Pittsburgh this summer.  Amanda’s b-day is 8-16 and John and mine are 8-17.  We invited Keith by default even though his b-day is in May…. It would not have been the same without him.  It was delightful!

 

I’ll close with this reminder… Don’t forget to savor the moments of awe, wonder, and marvel at the glorious works of the Lord!!! 

Keith's Favorite Gift

We visited the Valentines in the summer. We had stayed out way too late at the cottage and the kids were tired and probably nappless. It was almost 10pm when Gayle asked if she could ride home with us. Her Dad told her "For $5." Her tired whiney reply was "But I don't have $5." Her dad reminds her that she has money from a garage sale to which she replys in true distress "OK, but I was saving that to buy a unicorn!!!!!!" We all had a good laugh and really, writing this story just does not do it justice. I think you really had to be there to get the full effect. So the next day we questioned her about this unicorn that she wants to buy. She wants a white unicorn with a blue mane and a pink tail and a yellow horn and a purple whatever... so specific.

So Keith got her a special unicorn at the glass blowing center. This photo is her opening that gift. Keith feels like such a special uncle for getting her a unicorn. Sadly, the head broke off only minutes later as she was playing with it. We packed it back up in the gift box and her parents said they would try to glue it. The next morning I came into the dining room to find her sitting by her lonesome pearing into the box with such a sad sad look on her face. She was devestated.

I keep meaning to call the glass blowing center to see if they can fix it. So maybe the next time they visit, they could carefully transport the precious unicorn and we will see if we can get it fixed for her.

Saturday’s Savings

Trying to get back to my daily posts on particular topics.  I like order.  I need order.  Clutter aggravates me!

 

Today I’m saving my sanity!  I will not be going out to shop.  What aggravates me more than clutter??? Crowds!  So I’m not only saving money today… I’m saving my nerves.  Besides… my house really needs cleaned!

The Day After…

Wow!  Christmas was a whirlwind this year.  We had Christmas Eve dinner with Rene’e because Keith wasn’t going to be able to make it to her house for the festivities… and festive it was!  I love going to Renee’s for Christmas.  While Thanksgiving is my favorite holiday, Christmas is hers and she spares no expense.  Her home is a winter wonderland of decor and her tree sparkles so pretty.  There was ham and turkey with all the fixins and desserts galore!  The gift giving was a wild exchange with ribbons and paper waste all over.  I’ve never seen so much red (Farmall Fans) in one place.  They crack me up.  It was nice to see them all, especially some of the family that I don’t get to see very much. 

Renee does the white-elephant gift exchange too.  You know, the game where you can either pick a gift or steal someone else’s.  It was hilarious.  There was a red union suit with an International Harvester logo on it.  Someone said “That’s the sexiest thing in the room.” and it made its rounds being stolen several times.  Whoda thunk it?!  I wanted to steal it for Keith, but I don’t think he’d actually use it.  (I know he wouldn’t)  So I couldn’t because there were some there who wanted it for its warmth!  (or maybe they wanted it for its sex appeal?)  HA!!!!  The gift that I got (I shall not reveal it yet) was something that was a re-gifted gift to start.  Someone brought it to the game to get rid of it.  The person that opened it vowed to re-gift it to someone else.  Somehow I ended up with it.  I plan to re-gift it too… Shhhhhh… don’t tell the Zombecks!  They will either love it or hate it.  (and it comes with permission to be re-gifted.)  It’s too funny!  I hope to take pictures and post. 

 

After the party I went to the barn.  I had two big carrots for each of the horses.  I had plans to take the time to brush my little pony, but alas she was wet from the rain.  It’s not a good idea to brush the wet in the cold.  That would make it soak down to her skin and she could chill.  Better to let it air dry as is.  None the less, I rubbed her forehead and doted on her a bit.  She’s so sassy and spoiled, but I love her dearly.  I’m very blessed to have her and enjoy it very much.  Yes, even in nasty weather. 

 

My favorite gift would have to be the pasta bowls… something that’s been on my list for a long time.  Yay!!!!  I also really like the singing cow stocking that Rene’e gave me.  What didn’t I get that I really wanted?  Those gel socks that’ I’ve been eyeing up for months.  Every time we got to Walmart I point them out to Keith.  I think I just might buy them for myself after all.  Rene’e got some and I was jealous.  What was your favorite gift?

 

I didn’t get to my folks in time to give the littles their gifts.  I think their new Wii will definitely overshadow our little presents anyway.  So they can enjoy the game for a bit and then hopefully we’ll see them in the next couple of days. 

It’s Christmas Eve

Yes, it’s Christmas Eve.  All best intentions of having all our out of town relatives gifts mailed has gone out the window of time.  They will all be having a New Years Christmas from us.  SORRY!!!  Lucky for the Valentines… we had Christmas early with them. 

 

I’m working a half day today.  I’m taking the truck aka “The Big Bird” to work so I can pick up a gift for Keith on my way home.  If the store doesn’t have what I’m looking for, then I’ll have to backtrack and initiate plan B.  As usual… I have him guessing what in the world I’d need the truck for today.  Ha ha ha.  :)  We are to have dinner with Rene’e this evening and then we’ll attend the candlelight service at church.

 

I’m so glad for Keith.  He spend much of yesterday playing on Facebook.  He found most of his old Army friends!  How exciting for him to reconnect. 

 

I’d like to wish all a most festive and very Merry Christmas.  Enjoy!!!

Way Back Wednesday

In the spirit of Christmas, I’m thinking back to Christmas as a little girl.  The first memory that comes to mind is that I dreamed excessively that I would get a horse for Christmas.  It was a vivid dream… I imagined someone telling me to look out the window and another someone leading it down the driveway.  Of course this dream was never exactly a Christmas reality.  My horse-gift did not come at Christmas time. 

 

My next Christmas recollection is that my Mom would wrap the gifts and number them, instead of putting our names on them.  Great idea Ma.  Among the coolest gifts….  a radio/cassette player from my parents and jewelry from cousin Steve. 

 

And last, but so so sweet…. Grammy always wrapped her gifts in white tissue paper and sometimes used stickers for tape. 

 

My final comment this morning is that I’m disappointed because there will be no Ugly Ornament Contest for us this year.  Bummer! 

I'm Back!!!!!!

We got a new computer!!!!

Sorry, no pictures downloaded yet... working on it!

Yee Haw!!!!!

Flashback...

I'm leading the Beth Moore Esther study for a groups of lovely ladies at church. That's my Monday.

Tuesday all was back to normal until the accident. Some woman side swiped my car. Ugh!! I'm supposed to get an estimate on the damages tomorrow.

I had a really long day on Wednesday. My office hosted a meeting for the local chapter of professionals who work in our field. I happen to be the Secretary of that organization. It was a nice evening.

Thursday was business as usual. Work then farm chores. Brushed my pony and spoiled her a bunch. She's getting fluffy.

That brings us to Friday... Nothing earth shattering. Work, farm chores, and dinner out w/ HandyHubby.

Slept in 4 hours on Saturday. 7am left and visited the Farmers Market. Then the Strip to Deluca's for breakfast. Later, I spent a long time clipping coupons and organizing them. HandyHubby joined me in shopping for the weekly deals. We got a bunch but were disappointed that the store was out of some things for which we had coupons that are expired today. Bummer. Oh well, the pantry is well stocked anyway.

This morning we worshipped at the early service. After brunch we went for a drive. Now home... He's watching the Nascar race. I best go prepare for tomorrow's study.

Have a great day.

PS. Happy Birthday Wendy

accomodations

I checked into my hotel aka the farm on Tuesday. Any morning when I can set foot outside and be greeted by the sweet sound of my horse is a blessed day. I am so blessed...all week long! She had her shoes pulled today. The bulk of my riding is done for this year. Its hunting season now so our trails are limited.

Its quiet here for the most part, except for my two snoring pals at the moment. One is a chocolate lab and the other a pitbull (a very sweet and rather small one). They both hit the sack before me and YES they are both snoring! The kitty is beside me in bed as I type. He's purring like a Mack truck and kneading against my arm. This would be like heaven for Essie!!!

I miss my HandyHubby who is holding down the fort at home. Maybe ill get to see him tomorrow? He came last night bearing gifts... A new saphire ring. Good job Babe.

Its worth mentioning that I have heard the bear this week. I know they are here but I haven't seen them. I let the dogs out about 5AM Wed AM and I heard a distinct growling in the woods, not too close mind you but close enough to hear and know exactly what it was. I would like to see them, just not up close.

Well, I suppose ill turn in for tonight. G'night all.

Tuesdays With Jen

I woke up Sunday morning with my Grandpa on my mind... We called him "Grampy.". I remember his hands were rough but gentle and he had a crooked finger. It was his pointer finger. He wore work pants, flannel shirts, red suspenders, and rubbers on his shoes. He had a potato with every meal. He had "worship" twice each day where he got on his knees and prayed. He liked to go to SteppInn for coffee and chatter. He worked hard. He was a farmer. Over the years I have met many persons who knew him well and spoke very highly of him.

So there you have it...some rememberances of someone who stole my heart early in life and whose legacy has influenced my life significantly.

Blessings Monday

I am thankful for our truck. We have now helped move a few people and soon will help move my parents as well. I knew we would USE the truck if we got one. We are very blessed to have it and aspire to use it to bless others when we can.

Weekend Snippets

Let me back up to Thursday... I took a vacation day and enjoyed every moment of it. I went to Volant, PA with my friend and her daughter. We got pumpkins, looked at horses, had more holes punched in my belt, and grabbed lunch at every childs favorite... McDonalds. Afterwards we played "horses" until her brother came home. It was a nice visit. I'm very blessed to have friends with such lovely children. I especially like that the kiddos like me so much. It was a great day! Thanks Pal!!!

Friday was the annual golf outing. It was a dreadful cold and rainy day. The lunch was good and the dinner very nice. Its ok. I don't golf anyway. I'm just there to decorate the tables, eat, drink, and if its nice we drive around on golf carts acting like idiots and taking pictures. I'm happy to report that the guys actually said that they missed us since we didn't take pictures.

Saturday was kind of a lazy day. HandyHubby had to work all afternoon. I clipped coupons and did some grocery shopping. I need to get back into a routine with coupon clipping and grocery shopping. I've been lazy about that lately. I made a pot of taco soup for dinner. HandyHubby was happy about that. I also completed half of this weeks assignments for my Monday Night Esther Bible Study.

So that brings us to today. It started with coffee and tea. Then church. Helped Uncle Charlie move some things. See, I knew we would find many ways to use our truck to bless others! Had a nice dinner out with the Zombecks...thanks Zombecks!! You rock!! Played with their kujo-kitty...ouch! And caught a few glimpses of Chilly. We also brought home the sewing machine that Grandma gave me years ago. I'm going to use it for my daily devotions. Cleaned the birdcage tonight. Rearrainged things and changed out the toys. When the birds got back in it was like they were exploring a new jungle. They like variety and special snacks. I always give them millet after cleaning the cage. HandyHubby is watching the Steeler game. I think Ill go finish my Bible Study and get ready for bed.

And those are the snippets of my weekend!

change of season

Autumn is my favorite season. I love constant change. We are so blessed to live in an area where we witness the change of seasons so vibrantly. Each morning my commute to work is different. The route is the same but the scenery changes. Its becoming more vibrant but hasn't reached its peak yet. God paints a grand landscape.

We are embarking upon a new season of life as well. Today is my Handy-Hubby's last day with Starbux. Its bitter-sweet. He loves the coffee business but wasn't moving up as he aspired to. The economy affected his ability to meet those aspirations. I told him to just be content there and enjoy the work. Just about the time that he started feeling content, God dropped an opportunity in his lap. He did not seek this... He was recruited. He interviewed exceptionally well and he starts his new job on Monday! Yay!!!

So here is to the change of seasons!!! Enjoy them and thank the Lord for them.

another interview

My Handy-Hubby has another interview on Thursday morning.
Thanks for keeping this in your prayers. He is nervous but I reminded him that he's once again been called out of the boat... And he is just riding the waves... No need to fear. What's the worst outcome? If he doesn't get the job he can consider it another valuable experience and continue working in his present position which he loves. Its a win-win either way.

another interview

My Handy-Hubby has another interview on Thursday morning.
Thanks for keeping this in your prayers. He is nervous but I reminded him that he's once again been called out of the boat... And he is just riding the waves... No need to fear. What's the worst outcome? If he doesn't get the job he can consider it another valuable experience and continue working in his present position which he loves. Its a win-win either way.

Opportunity Knocks

Keith emailed his resume and not more than 20 minutes later received a call. He has an interview scheduled for Friday AM.

Thanks for your prayers in this regard.

Opportunity Knocks

Keith emailed his resume and not more than 20 minutes later received a call. He has an interview scheduled for Friday AM.

Thanks for your prayers in this regard.