Early Happy New Year!!!

Happy New Year's Eve Eve. This has been a challenging day. I got up this morning and realized I had a flat tire. My husband is very safety conscious and both of us and my daughter have an emergency bag in our car with fix-a-flat, fire extinguisher, flares, etc. I used to think it was goofy, but now in my older years I realize how wonderful and wise it can be.

I got the fix-a-flat and the yellow stuff went into the tire and pumped it up enough for me to get to the local full service gas station. It turned out to be not such a great idea. I left it there and one of my co-workers picked me up. They called me and said it could not be fixed and I also needed another tire in the front. I told them the tires were fairly new and one should be enough, but please check how much the two tires and alignment would cost. He called back and said $578.00. After I picked myself up off the floor, I told him just to put the spare on and I would pick it up.

I called a local tire store and they had more of a selection and the guy told me to come in. Off I went to the tire store and got all fixed up for $165.00. Thank the Lord! This was just a speed bump, not a train wreck. I always try to tell myself, "If this is the worst thing that happens to me today I'll be doing great!"

I won't have too many opportunities to get out there and zoom around bloggyland in the next few days. I have to finish my year end reports and I am working on a great bible study, Esther by Beth Moore.

If I don't post again until 2009, I want to wish you all a blessed and wonderful 2009!!!!!!
You guys are so special to me.

Just Playing Checkers

Avery and Papa playing checkers

I snapped this picture of my husband and Avery this afternoon. I loved watching them play together. It was so peaceful and watching her try to get some slick moves was amusing. She said that she hates it when adults let her win, so we always try to make it challenging.

I feel like the week between Christmas and New Years is such a time for reflection. I feel like we are getting ready for a clean slate. I also pray that I have accomplished what I needed to accomplish in 2008.

I hope you guys are having a great holiday season.

Sweet Noggie Memories

Avery making homemade Chocolate Eggnog

Yesterday was a great Christmas. Everyone was happy(or certainly appeared to be) and we all got together at my daughter Jolie's house. Since I enjoy reading other's menus I will list hers. Ham, mashed potatoes, green beans, deviled eggs, hash brown casserole, mac & cheese, pistachio pineapple marshmallow salad, pecan pie, Boston creme pie, cookies, and fudge. Last, but not least, Avery made some Chocolate Eggnog from a recipe in a new cookbook she got for Christmas. It was quite good and as you can see, she is enjoying her cooking.

Jolie had invited my SIL and her husband, her daughter and her boyfriend, and of course, there was my husband, Jolie's husband and Avery. It's hard to believe it's their second Christmas in the new house. Time goes so fast.

One of the favorite things my daughter got me for Christmas was the new Bible Study by Beth Moore on Esther. I started the workbook last night and I love it. I will listen to the tapes on my way back to Atlanta Sunday afternoon. I have so enjoyed her studies. She is easy to listen to and her study books have just the right level of intensity for me. I enjoy the challenge and have learned so much from her teachings.

Avery is playing on her DS and watching Meet The Robinson's on tv. I am getting ready to visit some of my blog friends and then settle down with one of my new books. Avery wanted to let you guys know that she got a Build a Bear horse this afternoon and named her, Peanut Butter.

My week of vacation certainly flew by. It will be good to get back to my regular routine and finish up year end reports at work. I pray you all have had a great relaxing holiday as well.

My Dear LORD,

At this special time of year I want to thank you for coming to earth. You didn't have to, but you did. You came in humble surroundings. You didn't have to, but you did. As the world has turned so upside-down and life seems like a constant challenge, you are there for me. As a baby you watched over me and placed me with a loving adopted family. You didn't have to, but you did. Thank you for my loving family and friends. Thank you for dying on the cross for me, you didn't have to, but you did. Someday you will come back for me, you don't have to, but you will. You have promised. I thank you for who you are and your precious love. You are the Greatest Gift of All. Love, Patricia

Off to See Santa

My sweet friend, Linda, at Life's A Calling, Who is This? is hosting a trip to the North Pole and Avery and I decided to join in. I have been away from bloggyland for nearly a week and I apologize for not letting you know I stepped away for a while. We have been getting ready for Christmas and last Saturday, Avery and I went to Stone Mountain Christmas for the whole day. We had a grand time. We saw Polar Express in 4-D. We could smell the hot chocolate, feel the wind blowing and even it snowed during several scenes. It was great fun. I sat on a bench while Avery went with her girlfriend, Hannah, and her parents went up the mountain on a skylift. When they got off they started walking down the mountain, but didn't realize they were completely on the opposite side. They had to walk all the way around and it took about two hours. I was fine, but had to purchase a hoodie because it got so cold. I started worrying about them, but I just had to pray and let it go. Finally, they showed up and they were all four exhausted.

We believe the most important part about Christmas is Christ and His birth. We have lots of fun with all the rest, but we don't want to loose sight of Christ.

Avery and I jumped on the private plane that Linda had sent for us. Wasn't she sweet to make sure we got there safe and sound? It took so long that Avery started questioning me,"Are we there yet, Nana?" I heard that about a million times. When we arrived it was all snowy and beautiful.

The elves were singing, Santa Claus is Comin' To Town. We were mesmerized by all the excitement and activity. Wow! It was fascinating. We had to show our special passes because not just anyone can travel to the North Pole. Thanks Linda for getting those passes.

Big old Santa was quite busy checking the naughty and nice list. Don't forget to check it twice. We were offered some hot chocolate and the most wonderful sugar cookies I've ever experienced. Avery and I just stared at each other after the first bite. Wow! They were magic!

Avery waited in line because she said she just had to have a picture and autograph from Santa Claus. He's so happy and jolly and fa-la-lolly. He has the cutest giggle.

I tucked Avery in at the Santa Claus Bed and Breakfast and before he was ready to leave on his trip he had to try out how his technique worked again. So he practiced at the Bed and Breakfast and made a quick stop to check on Avery. He sure hasn't lost his touch. He zoomed up the chimney and away he went.

As we arrived back home to the ranch we realized we were going to have the most wonderful white Christmas ever. From our house to yours Merry Christmas!! Love from Avery and Nana Trish!!!!!!

A Week Until Christmas and I'm Hanging Out at Barnes and Nobles

Okay, boys and girls..I have just arrived back from Cynthia's blog Muse Swings. I have to tell you that she has made my day sound incredibly boring. You must check it out. She saw Caroline Kennedy and held a snake all in the same day. She was at Starbucks and someone took her coffee. She just had one adventure after the other.

I went to work. Yes, we had our annual Christmas luncheon and did our exchange deally. I got a Best Buy gift certificate. Then I went back to work and had a conference call. I left work picked up my medicine and dropped into the Barnes and Noble and got a couple of Stampington books , like Stevie Wren was talking about a couple of weeks ago. I ate soup and drank a Zero. I imagine you are all on the edge of your seat with all this fun.

I hope my daughter doesn't hear about this post. She thinks it's unreal that people care about our little daily lives. I guess I'm just ready for my vacation and getting ready for Christmas. The weather is bizarre. It's freezing and then this evening it was 69 degrees. I don't know about you, but that makes me kind of confused. Hot and cold.

I don't know if Cyn really saw Caroline Kennedy or not. My mom used to say the older you get, the more you think strangers look like people you know. I have to say, I agree with her. BTW, I saw a woman sitting in Barnes and Nobles at the little tables doing her Christmas cards. I see some of the same people sitting there in the window reading and doing all kinds of activities. I don't know, maybe people are lonely and they go get their Starbucks and bring things to do there around all those other people. Actually, it's not a bad idea. Get your coffee, tons of reading material, restrooms, maybe it's a pretty good idea.

I'm writing from my room in Lavinia's mansion. As you can see, Bebbers is on the bed and I'm writing thoughts from the antique desk Steviewren bought for Miss Ladyslipper. Without further ado:

The day has finally arrived and Avery and I hopped on the plane in Atlanta. We are on our way to the big celebration hosted by Cynthia over at Muse Swings and Lavinia at Bird Bath Chronicles.

These adventures have turned into something my granddaughter and I look forward to in a big way. We packed for very cold weather and from the time our plane starting soaring northward Avery and I would squeeze each other's hands and just giggle. We knew we were in for fun.

We landed at a remote airport that screamed WWII. I was a little worried at first, but just kept my smile for Avery and off we zoomed in the limo they had waiting for us.

I had heard Lavinia's Snow Mansion was fabulous, but really, I had no idea it would be so huge. No wonder all the bloggy friends from all over the world were invited. There were so many bedrooms and servants it just made one dizzy.

Every where we looked was food. From the minute we walked in the door it was, "Eat,eat,eat!"

I haven't seen this much food since our friend, Willow's party. There was enough food for an army. These girls hold back on nothing. They must have spent thousands on the catering. Surely, they couldn't have made everything themselves.

After our first round Avery wanted to head outside to play in the snow. There was so much to do and they had all the proper snow clothes for any of the guests that weren't dressed properly. I can't wait to get all the pictures back from the snowball fight.

After getting nearly soaked we decided to come back to the mansion for some rest. This is Avery's room. Isn't it perfect for her? I had missed Lavinia for the last couple of weeks. Now I see why she had to get ready for such an extravagant get together. Everything to the last detail was perfect.

I decided after tucking in Baby Girl that I would go exploring. I found this beautiful snowy garden and I was amazed at how serene and peaceful it was in this northern hideaway. No wonder Miss Ladyslipper spends so much time here.

Another great trip and I thank all my bloggy friends for sharing this experience. I can't wait to visit all the participants and get their impressions. Just drop by Muse Swings for the list. Another time for fellowship and getting to know my friends just a little better.

From Nana Trish to Everyone,

Merry Christmas!!!!

ONE HUNDRED DOLLAR MYSTERY

Many of you know that my daddy got sick with colon cancer back in 1958. He was admitted to the hospital with a ruptured bowel and was never to work again. He lived for two more years and for the three of us...our world turned upside down. There was no disability insurance for him and my mother had to take maid jobs and we were forced to sell our car. Money was not something I had really worried about before that time. My daddy was an elevator operator so he didn't make that much money, but we had lots of love in our house. They had adopted me as a baby.

My daddy got sick in October and when Christmas came around my mother received a $100. cashiers check in the mail. It was totally anonymous. We were shocked and she was so confused that she went to the bank that it was drawn from. I remember us going in the bank and my mother showing the teller the cashiers check and then she ushered us to a bank executive. I remember the look on my mother's face when the bank executive told her that the person must not want to be identified. My mother wanted to make sure we thanked the donor properly. We left the bank and my mother told me that the Lord must have laid it on some one's heart. We prayed for the anonymous person.

For another five years my mother received cashiers checks for $100 at Christmas. To us, that was a huge amount of money. We never knew who sent us the money. We were so grateful, but we would have loved to thank that person. Monday will be the 30th anniversary of my mother's death and I have never forgotten what a difference that $100 made to us each Christmas. That's been fifty years and I imagine the anonymous person has probably passed on also. That money was a true blessing to us and I have never forgotten.

My mother trusted in the Lord to supply our needs and He always did. Although she's been gone from me for thirty years there is not a day that goes by that I don't think about her and miss her sweet loving care for me. Those of you that still have your mother and father are blessed. Please don't take it for granted. As tears roll down my face, I wish I could spend just one hour with her again. I have to remind myself that we will have eternity together with the Lord!

We Are Going On Another Adventure!!!

Make your plans girls and boys. Our friend, Cynthia, at Muse Swings is getting ready for another big bash. She knows how to put on a party and I don't know about you, but I think this will be quite an event. Please hurry over and let Ms. Swings know you will be part of the fun.

She has hosted tea parties, picnics, and who can remember what else. I had so much fun I just couldn't quite smiling. I hear we will be heading up north. Way up North! Another of our dear friends apparently has an ice castle up there. You know it's so much fun to plan these parties. I know there's not much else to do at this time of the year, but don't miss the fun!

What's a Favorite Christmas Memory?

One of my most favorite Christmas memories was way back when I was four years old. I was watching a white and black television show (well, duh). It was a local show in Indianapolis that would come on every afternoon during the season at 4pm for years. It was children sitting on Santa's lap at one of the large department stores downtown. They would tell him what they wanted and I found it quite fascinating. One cold afternoon I was sitting on the floor watching the show and I was apparently mesmerized. All of a sudden I felt something behind me. My daddy had a miniature red leather rocker and I just sat right in it and start rocking away and watching my show. It was a magic moment for me. I remember him having a huge smile and I felt so special in my new chair. To this day when I hear the Christmas song that starts, "Oh, hear those sleigh bells ring-a-ling........." I think of that moment and that little show.

Seven years later he would go to heaven and my Christmases would change forever. My daddy probably didn't realize that 55 years later I would be longing for that little chair and the love my adopted parents always gave me. I was blessed then and I am blessed today.

Please share a favorite Christmas memory. I look forward to reading them.

P.S. The new banner is Avery at the mall last Christmas when we went to see Santa.

Thanks Kat!

I want to thank my friend, PoetKat, over at PoetKat's Invisible Keepsakes. Kat is a wonderful person that unfortunately lost her dad just a few weeks ago. She writes great poetry and has an interesting site. She is a cat person and I must say that is a plus for me. I love her creativity and she's a daily must for me.This is the special "Proximidade" award. This award is a fine one because it focuses not on the glory and fanfare of blogging, but in the PROXIMITY to one another through this on-line world (kind of a Six Degrees of Separation sort of thing).

"Blogs who receive this award are 'exceedingly charming' say its authors.

This blog invests and believes in the PROXIMITY-nearness in space, time and relationships. These kind bloggers aim to find and be friends. They are not interested in prizes or self-aggrandizement. Our hope is that when the ribbons of these prizes are cut, even more friendships are propagated. Please give more attention to these writers! Deliver this award to eight bloggers who must choose eight more and include this cleverly-written text into the body of their award."

I am proud to pass this award to:

1) Theresa at Devotions For the Seasons of Life
2) Maree at At Home
3) Cynthia at Muse Swings
4) God's Girl at Contentment Corner
5) Lora at My Blessed Life
6) Janeen at Chachaneen
7) Sparky at My Thoughts Exactly
8) Sharon at Techno Nana

These are some of my very special friends in Bloggy Land. I am not sure how I hooked up with them, but I am so happy that they are my friends. They have uplifting blogs and I so enjoy visiting with them. I love meeting new friends. My mother always said, "You can't have too many friends!"

I have had to put away my ballet shoes for a couple of months. I'm doing fine though. I told the doctor, "A broken foot is not nearly as painful as 41 hours of labor." There are so many people that have so many huge challenges, this is just a little speed bump. I am so blessed and I pray all of you have a wonderful week as we draw closer to Christmas.

I so appreciate all of my friends. Thanks for being there for me.

Ramblings on A Sunday Morning

Here it is Sunday morning and we've got some beautiful sunshine. I just got home from church and today was the children's program. It was adorable, of course. Avery didn't stay with us this weekend and it felt strange. She was at a girlfriend's house and had a great time. Hubby is sick and in the bed. I'm hobbling around with my broken foot and looking very stylish in the boot deal.

This is a very sad anniversary in our country's history. December 7th, a day that will live in infamy. We are so thankful for the men and women that have sacrificed for our freedom. It was also on a Sunday on the fateful day. I pray that everyone takes a couple of minutes to think about that day and those who gave the ultimate price.

I needed to let my friends know that I have not fallen off the earth. I'll try and write more tonight when I get to Atlanta. Have a super Sunday!

I've Been Tagged

My friend, Maree, at the blog, At Home tagged me for 7 Random Things About Me. She is such a sweet person and has been very inspiring to me in many ways. Hop over and visit her. I hope this list doesn't bore you too much. If I have repeated myself from another time I am sorry. I have too much information in my brain and the older I get it just keeps filling up more and more and it's harder to retrieve information. Perhaps some of you can relate. Anyway, here goes.

1)I took 2 years of typing in high school. My mother drilled it into me..."If you know how to type you will always be able to get a job." She was right. Why didn't I listen to her when she said, "You can love a rich man just as easy as a poor man".

2)I have obsessed about my weight since the sixties. As an adult I have been a size 8 and since I share so much with my bloggy friends, I am currently a size 24. I have been up and down so many times. Yes, I'm tall 5'9, but at this weight, HELLO, I would need to be about 8' tall. As of last week I have been making better choices. Please hold me up in prayer about this temptation.

3)I love books. I worked in the public library in high school and I love to hang out in book stores. I love magazines and books. Hence, my multiple translations of the Bible, my favorite book.

4)I have absolutely loved purses/handbags since I was a tiny little girl. For some women they are just a necessity--to me they have always made me feel happy. I know....coo coo

5)I love the game Trivial Pursuit.

6) When I was a little girl I thought the words to a church song said, "Give me oil in my lamb keep me burning. Give me oil in my lamb I pray." I just could not figure out why you had to put oil in a lamb. It took me a while to figure out it was "lamp". Maybe because I didn't grow up with oil in lamps. Anywho...I felt goofy when I realized the true lyrics. See I share so much with you.

7)I got to watch my granddaughter, Avery, being born. Needless to say, that was one of the most exciting times of my life. She is a sweet girl and not just because I'm her Nana. I was so tired when I gave birth to my daughter I was truly goofy. 41 hours of labor. Tons of fun.

Now I tag the following:

1) Stevie Wren at A Little Bird told me so
2)Judy at My Front Porch
3)Indian Papa and Mama at Choices R Mine
4)Pat at Mille Fiori Favoriti
5)Betsy at My Five Men
6)Barb at The French Elements
7)Debby at Life's Funny Like That

These are just a few of my bloggy friends, but I would like to learn some more stuff about them. If you've read this far I hope you know that you are special to me and I enjoy reading all your posts too. later

Meeting Dear Friends from Blogland

Indian Lake Mama and Papa

Today was a very special day for me. I got to meet some wonderful folks for lunch. I got to spend time with the authors of Choices R Mine. They were passing through with her mother and I was so happy they got to stop for some lunch. Hop over and visit them at their site. They have a deep love for the Lord and it is very evident that they share His love where ever they go. I knew I would like them right away from the motto on the site, "Choices in life are always simple, but not always easy." They have been through the fire yet have the sweetest smiles that make you just want to hug them. Papa cuts up a lot and he always talks about Mama being his very best friend. To me it is so refreshing to see a couple that truly loves and respects each other. God is real in their lives and I am so thankful I got to finally meet them in person. The three of them were so sweet and I wish we could have spent more time together.

Pray for them in their travels. I appreciate my blog friends and it was sure was fun to meet some in person. I pray you all have a wonderful week. It's cold in Georgia. In fact, we got some snow flurries today. It's fun for us because we don't get to see much snow.

Oh yow, I am so graceful. I slipped on some water Saturday night and now I have a blue foot. Yes, not blue tooth, but blue foot. I will have x-rays Thursday with my regular appointment so I will have to wait until then. My husband said he is going to invent an adult walker for me like babies have with the equipment all around you and wheels to scoot around. I guess I have had a few spills, but there really was water on the floor. Last time my pajamas were too long. Things just happen. Anyway, since I always like to share with my friends I had to let you know I have a blue swollen foot. Don't be jealous! later, Trish

Getting Ready for Christmas

After a wonderful Thanksgiving and lots of yummy food, Avery and I have decided to start getting ready for Christmas. We are going to decorate the house and start making our Christmas cards. We purchased some last minute supplies yesterday evening and we hope to make cards that express how we feel about this blessed holiday.

It's a dreary Saturday and hubby has football roaring on the telly. I've been enjoying RedRose tea with Hazelnut Biscotti creamer and Splenda. Yummy for the tummy. The tea is from England and has the best flavor. They also give you a free little animal ornament. Avery thought it was so special and so do I. I'm just crazy about the tea. Very flavorful!

I've been getting lots of rest and I feel great. God has been so good to us! I look forward to this holiday season. It will be what we make it and I have all intentions of making it special. I have so many wonderful bloggy friends and I wish I could spend time with you all. That would be a wonderful present. Until then I will be content speaking with you in bloggyland. Later.

Happy Thanksgiving!

From My Family to Yours

I want to take this opportunity to say Happy Thanksgiving to all my bloggy friends! Every day He gives us blessings! Every day He can be called upon! This holiday season I pray you will find peace and love!

Psalms 65:13 NLT

You crown the year with a bountiful harvest:

even the hard pathways overflow with abundance.

The grasslands of the wilderness become a lush pasture, and the hillsides blossom with joy.

The meadows are clothed with flocks of sheep, and the valleys are carpeted with grain.

They all shout and sing for joy!

Christ the King Sunday

We had a wonderful service today and I just wanted to share some of the message with my friends. Pastor Brent had us focus on Matthew 2. I have read it so many times and had never thought about some of the things he brought out. He emphasized that this chapter is about control. He challenged us to think about what we can control. I thought this was exceptionally timely as we see the financial situation in our country turn upside down. We cannot control it. Pastor said that there are only two options to the question, "Who is the king of my life?" It's either me or the Lord. It can't be a little of one and a little of the other.

Pastor said that so much of this passage is about Herod trying to control the circumstances of Jesus' birth. He went to great lengths trying to assure that another would not become king instead of him. He lied and said he wanted to find the child so he could also worship Him. He had numerous innocent boys under two years old murdered. He still did not accomplish his mission. God gave Joseph a dream and told him to flee to Egypt. As the scripture says, "This Egyptian exile fulfilled what Hosea had preached: "I called my son out of Egypt." Matt. 2:14,15.(Message)

I choose the Lord and I truly want Him to control my life. Turning all our plans and every facet of our life over to Him is what He wants and what ultimately gives us peace.

Simple Pleasure:
Brand new colored markers with a fine point.
They make me happy.

A Quiet Time

I find this picture from flickr fascinating. I long to sit at that picnic table and just have quiet time for hours and hours. My life can become so rush rush and so many people are asking me questions day after day. I would love to just go to this secret place and talk to the Lord and read His Word. Doesn't it look peaceful?

Simple Pleasures: Day 3 Piling nice soft comforters on top of each other and crawling under those heavenly covers. I thank the Lord I am able to rest at night and just be quiet.

In November of 1961 I was a girl of 12 and my life was basically like most other girls my age. My daddy had passed away the November of 1960 and my mother and I made our way through life with lots of friends and church members. During the two years my daddy had been sick our lives had totally changed. We had to sell our car. My mother had to go to work, as my daddy had to stop working immediately after he got sick. He was in and out of the hospital too many times to count. When he was in the hospital my mother would have to get me off to school, go clean someone's house, then we would ride the bus to the hospital. Sometimes our church friends would give us a ride to the hospital. My mother stayed in motion from sun up to sundown. I didn't realize the sacrifices she made until I was older. I guess I was caught up in my own little girl world. It hurt me that I could do virtually nothing but pray for my daddy. He would cry out,
"Jesus, please take me home!" I heard that phrase so many times that at night I had to put the pillow over my head to try to get my bearings. I hated it that my daddy had to suffer so much.

The fall after my daddy died we didn't realize that we needed to have the leaves cleaned out of our chimney. We had our furnace converted over from gas to coal. My daddy had thought it would be easier for my mother to have the gas. He didn't realize that someday it would nearly kill us. My mother had started cleaning a doctor's office. The doctor was a church member that my parents had known for years.

One morning my mother and I woke up and both of us were so nauseated. Normally I would jump out of bed and get ready for school. I loved going to school and I had to really be sick to even think about missing it. That morning I would get up and try to get dressed and I would nearly faint. My mother called the doctor and he came to check on us. He told us just to stay in bed and rest. When he left I felt chilly and I asked my mother if we could put the window in the bedroom down. We didn't realized that was our only source of fresh air. I got my transistor radio and put it close to my head and went to sleep.

The doctor sent his wife to check on us at lunch and she came back to the office and told him we were sleeping so soundly that neither of us woke up when she called our names. He became alarmed and hurried back to our house. By the time he got there both of us were totally unconscious. He called an ambulance and we were taken to the hospital. As I got out in the fresh air I remember opening my eyes seeing people but I couldn't speak. I looked over and my mother was still asleep. She was 61 and her lungs didn't respond as fast as mine. We were in the hospital for hours where I had been questioned by doctor after doctor. Finally, a young resident asked me if I had heard anything as I was ready to pass out. I remembered that it sounded as if a train was coming closer and closer and then I'd pass out. He said he had been on rotation at another hospital and there had been a family that had been overcome with carbon monoxide and they described the same sensation.

They sent the fire department back to our house and used some sensors and determined that the house was full of the gas fumes. They opened all the windows and aired it out. My mother finally recovered that night and it was a happy time for us that we were still among the living.
Folks, I feel the Lord had spoken to the doctor to tell his wife to come and check on us. If we had stayed in the house with the window closed we would have been dead within hours. Thank the Lord I have had the opportunity to live another 47 years and I praise His sweet name that He continued to watch over my mother and me.

I may have told this story before, but since it was at this time of the year it came to my mind and I wanted to share it. Don't ever take anything for granted. Love each other and thank our Creator for watching over us.

Simple Pleasures--Day 2 Vicks VapoRub. Yes, you read it correctly. It is a topical analgesic that my mother thought was the greatest thing for a cold. Unfortunately, with this latest weather change I am back to being all congested and I bought some Vicks VapoRub. I rubbed it on my chest and under my nose. It so reminds me of my mother and although a doctor once told her it was psychological that it worked for her. She didn't care. When we left his office she said she had been using it for years and she knew what worked. My mother rarely went to the doctor. This must have been a time when I was extremely ill because normally she would pray for me and eventually I would be fine. I know many people now that run to the doctor every time any little thing hurts them. I'm in the medical field, of course, I believe the Lord uses doctors. I'm just sharing how we lived back in the 50's.

May the Lord be with us as we enter these uncertain times. Hebrews 13:5, "Don't love money, be satisfied with what you have. For God has said, I will never fail you. I will never abandon you. So we can say with confidence, The Lord is my helper, so I will have no fear. What can mere people do to me?"

Back Home in Georgia

Avery and I landed safely and had such a wonderful trip to Rome. It was a great time and we loved seeing so many bloggy friends. My daughter doesn't quite understand the whole cyber experience with blog friends. Avery and I love to pretend and with lots of others pretending the same thing is just plain exciting. My job brings a full dose of reality day after day(remember I work with death everyday) and it is quite pleasant for me to go on these lovely cyber journeys.

I have started with the Simple Pleasures sharing and today is my first day. Click on the Simple Pleasures sign and get the details on the sidebar. Here's my first Simple Pleasure:

A warm towel. Yes, it's as simple as a nice warm towel. When I get out of the shower it seems chilly and I enjoy a warm towel. A girl I worked with years ago told me about a girlfriend she knew that was brought a hot cup of coffee in bed every morning by her husband. Then he would go to put her towel and a dryer sheet in the dryer for a few minutes while she was taking her morning shower. He then brought her the warm towel. Now to me....that was love. My husband traveled all the time so I started warming my daughter's towel after she took her shower before getting ready for school. It would smell good and had the added warmth from the dryer.

Hope you have a warm cozy Wednesday! God Bless You!!

THE GRAPE ESCAPE

I want to take this opportunity to thank Cynthia at MuseSwings and Lavinia at Birdbath Chronicles for hosting this elegant event. Cynthia is taking us to her vineyard for some grape stomping and we will be staying at Lavinia's villa. I knew these were classy ladies, but my, my, Avery and I were taken aback by the splendor. We were picked up in this cute little yellow number by Cyn. We didn't realize we would be riding to the vineyard in a Lamborghini so of course, we packed like we would be in a limo. Cyn said, "No problem", and whipped out her cell and called for one of her 'people' to pick up our luggage.

We had to stop downtown for a minute. She had a few last minute things to pick up for the party. We were quite excited to be on our way to this festive occasion with so many of our bloggy friends awaiting us at her estate. I had a surprise for the group. My friend Yo Yo Ma was in the area and said he would love to drop in for a few numbers for the group. It was lovely to have a nice meal and have his soothing cello music. I believe he was a hit.

After such a formal night our dear Cyn and Lavinia had us get casual before we went off to the grape stomping and we had a divine brunch with so many interesting foods it was delightful. I just couldn't believe it. Yo had a surprise for us. He had James Taylor drop in and as we ate our brunch they sang. He and Carly used to be dear friends and it was wonderful to see him after so many years. He's still the same mellow guy.

Cynthia will show and tell all the wonderful fun we had at the stomping. Then it was off to the Modern Art Museum. They closed down the museum so our party could have an intimate stroll through and not be bothered with others. I believe everyone enjoyed this little treat.

I had to point out the grand picture of Leonardo da Vinci. How can one go to Italy and not look upon Leo?

Next we were off to see Raffaellino del Garbo's Madonna and Child with St. Joseph and An Angel. I am not Catholic, but I do love paintings of the Madonna and Child. I just love this one and had to point it out to the gang.

We then went to look at this Italian High Baroque Writing Desk. Stevie Wren tried to bargain with the museum folks so she could take it back to the states, but they didn't seem to think that was such a good idea. She kept asking us if we thought it was too gaudy. Of course not.

Then we were off to the entrance to Quartiese Coppede`. I was so glad the girls had rented the tour bus. No limo would have held our gang.

We had to stop in town and Lavinia and Cynthia just surprised us. We ducked in a little alley and they instructed us to come on in for a quick bite. Avery and I were a little hungry at that point. We had some grand pasta and listened to this fellow play his music. Great fun.

We left out of the little restaurant and there in the street were some musicians playing some happy Italian tunes. This all felt like a movie. Great food. Great art. Great music. What a day!

Next we were off to an old friend's house for a private concert. My friend Mario Cecchetti is a fabulous tenor and he sang like an angel. Avery was in awe and told me this was beginning to seem like a trip of a lifetime. I agreed. Mario isn't very fond of children, but I think he made an exception because, of course, he is an old dear friend.
As we headed back to the villa Cynthia squealed that we had to ride by and see the Christmas lights already decorating the city. This was such a fun trip. I hope you enjoyed some of the highlights. My bloggy friends are so special and it was a Grape Escape we'll always remember.
Don't forget to drop over and visit some of the other folks that made this a spectacular memory. Go see MuseSwings for the list. Ciao!!!

Tea Party at Aunt Julie's

Avery sipping Earl Grey tea
Avery and her daughters, Addie, Kirsten, Trinity and Molly

Our tea party: Avery, Audra, and Aunt Julie

Yesterday evening we had a tea party at my SIL's house. We decided to have it in the sun room since the men were watching football and then John Wayne's "Quiet Man". We had many things to discuss since Avery and I would be dashing home to pack for Italy. Our friends Lavinia and Cynthia are hosting a lovely get together in Rome and we just can't wait.

If you are curious our menu was piping hot tea, blueberry cobbler and chocolate covered graham crackers. We all enjoyed ourselves and decided that next time we would bring out the silver. I hope everyone has had a great weekend. Avery has taken up golf and her daddy took her to the driving range this afternoon. I have driven back to Atlanta and getting ready for a big week. Later bloggy friends!

I hope you are having a great week. I am thankful it's getting towards the end of the week. I can't wait to see Mark, Avery and my daughter. In many way this has been a long week. I am ready to be in my own home and Avery suggested we have a tea party Saturday.

It's been on my mind lately about God's gifts. I don't know if you think about this, but I wonder if I am doing what He would have me to do and if I am truly using gifts that He has given me.
My friend, Strider, shared that he enjoys his Message bible. I have several versions and I had ordered a large print Message bible so I pulled it out again and I am finding I do really love it. I guess I have always gravitated back to NIV, but for some reason the Message is really speaking to me.

In Ephesians 4:4 it says, "You were all called to travel on the same road and in the same direction, so stay together, both outwardly and inwardly. ....everything you are and think and do is permeated with Oneness. But that doesn't mean you should all look and speak and act the same. Out of the generosity of Christ, each of us is given his own gift." I am going to be in prayer about my gifts. I know my love for others and of course, my love for the Lord is more important than a gift, but since it's in the Word, I guess I would like to know.

I love my bloggy friends and you always seem to encourage me when I am having a difficult time. Thank you for your support!

Veterans Day and Tags

This was a great day as we remember the Veterans. I want to thank everyone that has served our country and every chance I get I tell them that I appreciate their service to our country. So many times they act surprised that a stranger would thank them. I have never been in the military service, but I have deep respect for anyone who has. My ex-husband was in the Army and I know first hand that it can be a very difficult life. It was many years ago, but some of the same struggles are happening today and I thank all of them for their sacrifice.

This is also a special day to me because 48 years ago today my daddy went to be with the Lord. He suffered for two years with colon cancer and back then medical technology was so far behind in this area. There were no colostomies, only 4 X 4 gauze with tape. Once diagnosed he was bedridden. Thank the Lord now people are able to get out and about and there are so many more treatments. My daddy was a great man to adopt me as a 51 year old. In addition, 51 was a lot older then. I know that may sound strange, but those of you boomers remember how our parents dressed old, acted old, and just acted so much older than a 51 year old now. He was too young for WWI and too old for WWII. He was an elevator operator in a fancy building those last years before he got sick. My daddy was a loving, funny man.

I received a neat award from Cynthia at Muse Swings. I love reading Cynthia's posts. She is hilarious and so very creative. I will be going to Italy with her next week and just can't wait. Drop by to see her. You will not regret it. She's a sweetie!

I would like to pass this on to Julie at Julie King Art. She has great posts and I believe you will love her art. I have truly Fallen for Her Blog.
I also received a neat award from Sparky. She's over at My Thoughts Exactly. I have been catching her for the last few months and she is a neat person. She rides a motorcycle and has some very neat posts. This award is given for recognition of cultural, ethical, literary, and personal values transmitted in the form of creative and original writing...that's the general idea per Miss Sparky.

I will pass this along to Pat at Mille Fiori Favori. We share the same name, Patricia and we have a lot in common. She's way up in New York and I'm down here in Georgia, but we are anxiously awaiting to see the arrival of her new grand baby. She loves the Lord and I always look forward to her posts. Drop over at take a peek!

Let's make Wednesday a fabulous Hump Day! I am so blessed!!!!

Monday, Monday and the Grape Escape

I pray you have had a great Monday. It seems as though I have been yawning all day. I did have some fun times this weekend. Avery, Mark and I watched the American Girl movie, "Kit Kiterridge". It was set in the Depression era and was a very sweet movie. Avery made some cookies and we watched the movie with the lights off.

We went to church yesterday morning and knowing we are just around the corner from Thanksgiving is so strange. I haven't even thought about what we are doing for Thanksgiving dinner. I would like to go out to eat and then go to a movie, but we'll see. I guess I shouldn't think about this stuff when I am so tired. It makes me inclined to just want to chill.

I have been tagged and invited to the Grape Escape over at Muse Swings and Birdbath Chronicles. In the Grape Escape we are heading to a big get together in Italy. Drop over and get the details from the girls. I put this picture from allposters.com. It just seems so peaceful to me. I seem to be craving peace and quiet lately. People that get to map out there own day are blessed. I hope they all appreciate how wonderful it is. I suppose there are people sitting there saying that folks that get to go off to work have it good. We are all blessed!

Have a fabulous weekend!