We got to sleep in this morning, which was good for me sleeping off my allergy pill. I fixed my usual oatmeal for breakfast and then finished up my laundry and packing.
I have everything in my luggage except for 3 medium sized boxes of stuff for Nica. I’m going to send these to myself at Deanna’s house in AR today.
I ran into town to have lunch with my friend Peggy. I hadn’t seen her in over 16 years. I was surprised when she walked in with our friend Margaret! How fun! We sat and chatted so much that the waitress had to come back to our table 3 times just to get our order because we kept forgetting to look at the menus! We had a great lunch and sat there and talked for 2 ½ hours! It was so much fun to catch up. Next time I’m in town, we are definitely going to make a date ahead of time to together.
After our lunch chat, I went through Starbucks for a Chai Tea Latte. I just love those and don’t get them in Nica. It was very tasty and hit the spot since it was drizzly out side.
I drove to the UPS store and shipped my boxes. I also sent a package to my sister Pam. I had bought them something in NYC and couldn’t find it for our lunch yesterday. I knew I would find it when I started packing and sure enough I did! I had also gotten her something when shopping here. Since they live out in the boonies, it was easier to ship the package.
I then stopped by Mom and Gary’s to give her a wind chime that I had found in my storage unit. I thought she would enjoy it. I got to visit with them for about 30 minutes and then needed to head back to Sandy’s.
Stacey and Colten came over for dinner. Sandy and I tried our hand at creating some cannoli filling. We don’t know how to make the cookie tubes yet, but we like the filling better anyway. We layered it with graham cracker crumbs in a bowl. We’ll have to see how it turns out. No matter what, we’ll keep practicing!
I get back to Arkansas tomorrow afternoon and I will hit the ground running. Cathy is picking me up and we are going to chat about the team she is leading to Nica in Oct. I will be speaking about Nicaragua to a Kindergarten class on Friday morning and then getting my hair cut Friday afternoon. I have a car to borrow, for which I am soooo grateful! I will be house/dog/cat sitting next week. I hope to get some projects done while there. It won’t be long before I’m back in Nica and I need to be thinking ahead!
Tomorrow I leave Indiana. It’s bittersweet. I get used to staying here with Sandy and Terry. The longer I stay, the harder to leave. I just have to leave it in God’s hands to protect my heart from sadness and to I’ll concentrate on fun of being together with loved ones when I can.
Thursday, September 27, 2012
Tuesday, September 25, 2012
I gave Deanna a call this morning. She’s doing well. Her grand-daughter was in a bad bike wreck and has had surgery on her hand, which was severed. She had a concussion, too. So scary. Deanna always forgets when I’m coming home. Even though she writes it down, she always seems surprised when I tell her. She’s a cutie.
Sandy had some early blood work done and then we went to Stacey’s and used the internet. I then borrowed the car and met my sister Pam and her husband Rob for lunch at Chili’s. We had a nice visit together and talked for about 2 hours.
Pam is doing pretty well after her breast cancer treatments. Rob is on disability from injuries from the car wreck they had about 6 years ago. They stay at home and live a quiet life. Pam has other health problems and they do the best they can. I’m glad that I got to visit with them. We keep in touch via internet, too. I was really glad to get to spend some time with them.
Sandy had to take a broken window to Seymour (a town about 20 miles south), so we took advantage of the trip and visited my uncle Jesse. He’s doing pretty well after his cancer surgery. I hadn’t seen him for years and I was glad to get to visit. Sandy and I also stopped at Dairy Queen and treated ourselves! I had a peanut buster parfait. I haven’t had one of those in years!!! It was very good!
We got home and had leftovers for dinner. I washed up some of my laundry and started packing my suitcases. It was evident that I can’t fit everything I’ve bought for Nica in the suitcases. So, I’ve started some boxes to UPS to myself.
We visited with Stacey and Colten a little while after Stacey got off work. Then we had a very quiet evening watching TV.
My allergies are getting bad again. There was even a front page story in the local paper about how bad they are for many people. I’ll have to take a pill tonight, which I don’t like to do, but will when needed.
It’s been a good day. Hard to believe that 3 weeks has gone by so fast. It’s hard for me to keep track of what day it is anyway. I’m glad that God has every second under control!
Sandy had some early blood work done and then we went to Stacey’s and used the internet. I then borrowed the car and met my sister Pam and her husband Rob for lunch at Chili’s. We had a nice visit together and talked for about 2 hours.
Pam is doing pretty well after her breast cancer treatments. Rob is on disability from injuries from the car wreck they had about 6 years ago. They stay at home and live a quiet life. Pam has other health problems and they do the best they can. I’m glad that I got to visit with them. We keep in touch via internet, too. I was really glad to get to spend some time with them.
Sandy had to take a broken window to Seymour (a town about 20 miles south), so we took advantage of the trip and visited my uncle Jesse. He’s doing pretty well after his cancer surgery. I hadn’t seen him for years and I was glad to get to visit. Sandy and I also stopped at Dairy Queen and treated ourselves! I had a peanut buster parfait. I haven’t had one of those in years!!! It was very good!
We got home and had leftovers for dinner. I washed up some of my laundry and started packing my suitcases. It was evident that I can’t fit everything I’ve bought for Nica in the suitcases. So, I’ve started some boxes to UPS to myself.
We visited with Stacey and Colten a little while after Stacey got off work. Then we had a very quiet evening watching TV.
My allergies are getting bad again. There was even a front page story in the local paper about how bad they are for many people. I’ll have to take a pill tonight, which I don’t like to do, but will when needed.
It’s been a good day. Hard to believe that 3 weeks has gone by so fast. It’s hard for me to keep track of what day it is anyway. I’m glad that God has every second under control!
Monday, September 24, 2012
We got up and out early, starting with going to Stacey’s house to babysit Colten as we as jump on that internet!!! Sandy had a doctor’s appointment early and then Rob had one mid-morning. I was there for backup in case Sandy wasn’t back before Rob had to leave. But the timing worked out fine and I got to grab a 20 minute nap while waiting for Colten to wake up. Rob got to experience my terrible snoring, though. My reputation is continuing. I sure wish I didn’t snore, since it’s not good for me and it’s annoying for others, but I just can’t help it.
Anyway, after working on the internet a little more, we packed up Colten and took off for our errands. We grabbed Arby’s to eat in the car, since Colten was being a little stinker and we didn’t want to chance a scene in the restaurant.
We stopped at Walmart so that I could get a couple of shirts with longer sleeves, since it’s getting a little chilly here. Sandy stayed in the car hoping that Colten would fall asleep. As I was coming up to the car quietly in case the nap was in progress, I noticed Colten sitting upright waving at me.
Sandy got a call from Terry to meet him at Dad’s old house to help with putting some insulation in so that the drywall guy could be ready to start in the next few days. I watched Colten while Sandy and Terry worked inside the house. Colten and I watched the squirrels run and play and climb trees. We played tractor in the dirt. Colten then got a broom and helped sweep, until the broom handle bonked him on the head. Then he got Papaw’s work gloves on (picture floppy fingers) and a rubber mallet and started banging anything that didn’t move. He was a busy guy!
We got home and fixed dinner. Stacey came over to pick up Colten, who was quite a pill.
It was a beautiful day. It feels a little strange sometimes to be at Dad’s house with all the memories of living there while in high school and then in my 20’s when I rented from him. Then he moved back in and lived there the last 30 years. Now the house is down to studs, including the attic space, and being rebuilt. A big tree has been removed in the front. A lot of clean up work has been done and more will be coming. I’m glad that Sandy and Terry bought the house and are fixing it up. It feels a little like Dad’s memory is still there. I think it’s important to me since Dad and I weren’t close. I feel like I need more time to reconcile that he’s gone.
God has been revealing so many things to me in these 2 months in the states. I try to be aware every day to take in what He is showing me. I don’t always understand it, but I’m trying to remember it. He is amazing and I love following Him.
Anyway, after working on the internet a little more, we packed up Colten and took off for our errands. We grabbed Arby’s to eat in the car, since Colten was being a little stinker and we didn’t want to chance a scene in the restaurant.
We stopped at Walmart so that I could get a couple of shirts with longer sleeves, since it’s getting a little chilly here. Sandy stayed in the car hoping that Colten would fall asleep. As I was coming up to the car quietly in case the nap was in progress, I noticed Colten sitting upright waving at me.
Sandy got a call from Terry to meet him at Dad’s old house to help with putting some insulation in so that the drywall guy could be ready to start in the next few days. I watched Colten while Sandy and Terry worked inside the house. Colten and I watched the squirrels run and play and climb trees. We played tractor in the dirt. Colten then got a broom and helped sweep, until the broom handle bonked him on the head. Then he got Papaw’s work gloves on (picture floppy fingers) and a rubber mallet and started banging anything that didn’t move. He was a busy guy!
We got home and fixed dinner. Stacey came over to pick up Colten, who was quite a pill.
It was a beautiful day. It feels a little strange sometimes to be at Dad’s house with all the memories of living there while in high school and then in my 20’s when I rented from him. Then he moved back in and lived there the last 30 years. Now the house is down to studs, including the attic space, and being rebuilt. A big tree has been removed in the front. A lot of clean up work has been done and more will be coming. I’m glad that Sandy and Terry bought the house and are fixing it up. It feels a little like Dad’s memory is still there. I think it’s important to me since Dad and I weren’t close. I feel like I need more time to reconcile that he’s gone.
God has been revealing so many things to me in these 2 months in the states. I try to be aware every day to take in what He is showing me. I don’t always understand it, but I’m trying to remember it. He is amazing and I love following Him.
Tuesday, September 25, 2012
Sunday, September 23, 2012
I got up early and spent some quiet time with my Bible, since we weren’t going to church. The boys slept in and then had breakfast. I had my usual oatmeal.
Terry was keeping the boys for the day while Sandy and I went to Stacey’s babyshower. Sandy and I picked up Mom and got to Stacey’s early. I jumped on my computer to take advantage of the internet!
Stacey’s friend, Christy, did a wonderful job setting up the shower. Stacey got some really cute things for the new baby boy coming in November. I had been wanting her to have a girl and had threatened to give her girl stuff, but I was nice and found some really cute boy things. I brought him a red teddy bear with Arkansas embroidered on it and a little red Razorback football. I found a cute striped sleeper with a monkey on it and little monkey faces on the tops of the feet. There were lots of nice presents for the boy. Colten also got some ‘big brother’ presents. It was very enjoyable. We dropped Mom back off at home and then headed back to Sandy’s house.
The boys were still here with Terry. They were enjoying the 4 wheelers. Sandy and I walked through the woods a bit. I took some pics on my phone of the ‘Man Cave’, which is a nice treehouse built in the woods by Terry. It actually makes a good deer stand when not being occupied by the kids.
After our walk, Sandy and I took a dip in the hot tub and then got showers. It was really nice.
Sandy made a pear crisp from a basket of pears left on her door step, while I grilled burgers outside. We had a yummy dinner. I had bought some creamed spinach in a microwave bag and so I ate that also. I love good healthy stuff!! But I have to say that the pear crisp was fabulous and that makes up for any unhealthiness!
I did a little studying of a book on my Kindle. It’s so handy to have that thing! We watched some football. I went to bed later than I wanted to, but I don’t want to miss any time visiting with Sandy, either. I wish I could spend more time with my sister Pam, but it’s hard to get together. We will see each other on Tuesday!!
It’s my last Sunday in Indiana with family. The week will go by fast and then I leave on Thursday. That’s the hard part of living in different places. But it’s all good, as long as it’s what God wants me to do.
Terry was keeping the boys for the day while Sandy and I went to Stacey’s babyshower. Sandy and I picked up Mom and got to Stacey’s early. I jumped on my computer to take advantage of the internet!
Stacey’s friend, Christy, did a wonderful job setting up the shower. Stacey got some really cute things for the new baby boy coming in November. I had been wanting her to have a girl and had threatened to give her girl stuff, but I was nice and found some really cute boy things. I brought him a red teddy bear with Arkansas embroidered on it and a little red Razorback football. I found a cute striped sleeper with a monkey on it and little monkey faces on the tops of the feet. There were lots of nice presents for the boy. Colten also got some ‘big brother’ presents. It was very enjoyable. We dropped Mom back off at home and then headed back to Sandy’s house.
The boys were still here with Terry. They were enjoying the 4 wheelers. Sandy and I walked through the woods a bit. I took some pics on my phone of the ‘Man Cave’, which is a nice treehouse built in the woods by Terry. It actually makes a good deer stand when not being occupied by the kids.
After our walk, Sandy and I took a dip in the hot tub and then got showers. It was really nice.
Sandy made a pear crisp from a basket of pears left on her door step, while I grilled burgers outside. We had a yummy dinner. I had bought some creamed spinach in a microwave bag and so I ate that also. I love good healthy stuff!! But I have to say that the pear crisp was fabulous and that makes up for any unhealthiness!
I did a little studying of a book on my Kindle. It’s so handy to have that thing! We watched some football. I went to bed later than I wanted to, but I don’t want to miss any time visiting with Sandy, either. I wish I could spend more time with my sister Pam, but it’s hard to get together. We will see each other on Tuesday!!
It’s my last Sunday in Indiana with family. The week will go by fast and then I leave on Thursday. That’s the hard part of living in different places. But it’s all good, as long as it’s what God wants me to do.
Saturday, September 22, 2012
Sandy was up and had walked a bunch of laps in the woods, washed sheets and done other major housework early. Terry always makes bacon, eggs and biscuits on Saturday mornings. I can’t have those things, so I opted to stay upstairs relaxing until they were done with breakfast. Then I came down and had my usual oatmeal.
Curtis, my nephew, brought out Isaac and Conner to go to the library with us to see an exhibit there. We were going to be keeping the boys overnight. The exhibit was of different things to show some history of Columbus. My Dad had a ton of handmade wooden items to represent some of the companies that have been in the city for many years. He also did extensive research in the archives of the library about Columbus and businesses. When he died earlier this year, his collections were given to the various companies, the Historical Society and the Library. Sandy got a call that a few of his things were going to be on display at the event at the Library on Saturday. We went to see everything. It was a small event, but interesting. The boys enjoyed seeing Papaw’s stuff and they also got to touch the hides from different animals. A funny moment was when Isaac, who is getting pretty good with spelling words and sounding out new words, was reading the labels on some old bottles. He asked Sandy what ‘laxative’ spelled and meant. Of course, little boys that it was funny. But later in the weekend, Isaac actually used the word in a sentence. Smart kid!
We ended up passing the 2 boys over to Stacey and Rob in the parking lot for the day. Sandy, Terry and I took the long way home through a lot of countryside, including driving around a couple of lakes. The trees were hinting that they will be turning colors soon. It was a very nice ride. Of course, Sandy & Terry live in the midst of 15 acres, so their place is nice to view, too.
We weren’t home long before Sandy and I headed back into town to stop at Target to look for a booklight for my Kindle. They happened to have just what I needed and had it 75% off! They only had 2 left, so of course, I bought them both!
Then we proceeded to pick up Isaac from Stacey’s house and then went to pick up Conner from his friend’s birthday party. We brought the boys home and they rode 4 wheelers with Papaw while Sandy and I walked through the woods.
The boys got to play in the hot tub and then we had dinner and relaxed inside for the evening. It was a very nice day.
Curtis, my nephew, brought out Isaac and Conner to go to the library with us to see an exhibit there. We were going to be keeping the boys overnight. The exhibit was of different things to show some history of Columbus. My Dad had a ton of handmade wooden items to represent some of the companies that have been in the city for many years. He also did extensive research in the archives of the library about Columbus and businesses. When he died earlier this year, his collections were given to the various companies, the Historical Society and the Library. Sandy got a call that a few of his things were going to be on display at the event at the Library on Saturday. We went to see everything. It was a small event, but interesting. The boys enjoyed seeing Papaw’s stuff and they also got to touch the hides from different animals. A funny moment was when Isaac, who is getting pretty good with spelling words and sounding out new words, was reading the labels on some old bottles. He asked Sandy what ‘laxative’ spelled and meant. Of course, little boys that it was funny. But later in the weekend, Isaac actually used the word in a sentence. Smart kid!
We ended up passing the 2 boys over to Stacey and Rob in the parking lot for the day. Sandy, Terry and I took the long way home through a lot of countryside, including driving around a couple of lakes. The trees were hinting that they will be turning colors soon. It was a very nice ride. Of course, Sandy & Terry live in the midst of 15 acres, so their place is nice to view, too.
We weren’t home long before Sandy and I headed back into town to stop at Target to look for a booklight for my Kindle. They happened to have just what I needed and had it 75% off! They only had 2 left, so of course, I bought them both!
Then we proceeded to pick up Isaac from Stacey’s house and then went to pick up Conner from his friend’s birthday party. We brought the boys home and they rode 4 wheelers with Papaw while Sandy and I walked through the woods.
The boys got to play in the hot tub and then we had dinner and relaxed inside for the evening. It was a very nice day.
Friday, September 21, 2012
Sandy got up early and washed all of her laundry from NYC and what was here from her husband being a bachelor for a week. Once she was done, I started on mine. We had left the suitcases downstairs by the laundry room and it was easy to just throw them right in. A great start to the day!
My great-nephew Colten, age 2, was delivered around 6 am from his daddy. He seemed like he had grown a mile in the week that we were gone. He was trying to be helpful with the laundry. Although, for some unknown reason, he decided to pee in my open suitcase. Thankfully, Mamaw caught him just in time. That little stinker!
About noon we headed into town for lunch and went to Wendy’s. Colten was wanting a cheeseburger. I can get grilled chicken and baked potato there, so it was a good pick for us.
We headed over to Walmart to pick up some quick items so that we could get back home. Colten was being a little toot, so we didn’t spend much time in the store. I think he was showing us how much he missed us.
Sandy and I went for a walk in her woods. She needed to work on some peppers from her garden and some persimmons from the trees. I worked on typing up some notes for my blog.
We had chili for supper and it was very good. It had been a little bit cold and overcast for the day and chili hit the spot. Sandy made some healthy cornbread and it was soooo good! Stacey came out to get Colten and we al got to enjoy each other’s company for the evening.
Sandy said it didn’t even feel like we were gone a week. We just picked right up with everything at home. I told her that is how my life feels sometimes when I go back and forth from Arkansas, Nicaragua, Indiana and such. It can be a weird feeling sometimes.
We went to bed early and tired and it felt wonderful. God gave me a good day.
My great-nephew Colten, age 2, was delivered around 6 am from his daddy. He seemed like he had grown a mile in the week that we were gone. He was trying to be helpful with the laundry. Although, for some unknown reason, he decided to pee in my open suitcase. Thankfully, Mamaw caught him just in time. That little stinker!
About noon we headed into town for lunch and went to Wendy’s. Colten was wanting a cheeseburger. I can get grilled chicken and baked potato there, so it was a good pick for us.
We headed over to Walmart to pick up some quick items so that we could get back home. Colten was being a little toot, so we didn’t spend much time in the store. I think he was showing us how much he missed us.
Sandy and I went for a walk in her woods. She needed to work on some peppers from her garden and some persimmons from the trees. I worked on typing up some notes for my blog.
We had chili for supper and it was very good. It had been a little bit cold and overcast for the day and chili hit the spot. Sandy made some healthy cornbread and it was soooo good! Stacey came out to get Colten and we al got to enjoy each other’s company for the evening.
Sandy said it didn’t even feel like we were gone a week. We just picked right up with everything at home. I told her that is how my life feels sometimes when I go back and forth from Arkansas, Nicaragua, Indiana and such. It can be a weird feeling sometimes.
We went to bed early and tired and it felt wonderful. God gave me a good day.
Monday, September 24, 2012
Thursday, Sept 20, 2012
It’s Travel Day back to Indiana. Our visit to NYC has been fun. Sandy is anxious to get back home to her comfort zone of living in the midst of 15 acres and taking care of the house and grandkids. But she has had a great time and is very proud of herself for making the trip and getting a little vacation time.
We didn’t have to leave the hotel until noon, so we lounged around the room and ate our last breakfast. I had oatmeal and Sandy had left over tortellini. We finished up the last of the packing and moving things from one suitcase to another trying to figure out if we were okay on weight. We did good. We watched some HGTV of homes worth millions of dollars. Some were pretty and some were weird. I just kept thinking about how many families could have lived in those homes of over 10,000 square feet.
We checked out at the front desk and the doorman got us a taxi to the airport. Very quick and uneventful. We went across town and over some streets and eventually highways that we hadn’t seen. The weather looked a little cloudy, but mild. Sandy was a little worried about the plane ride, since she doesn’t fly much and doesn’t like it. But I told her it should be fine.
We got to the airport by 1pm. Check in at curbside was fast and easy, security was fast and easy. I hadn’t flown out of JFK before and was happy that everything was close by, since I didn’t want Sandy to have a bad experience.
We found a Chili’s to have lunch. We had the hot spinach/artichoke dip and I had grilled salmon, rice and broccoli. Sandy had a spicy grilled chicken breast, rice and broccoli. We were both happy with our meals. We could relax and sit there as long as we wanted, since it wasn’t too busy. We talked about our trip and the things we enjoyed doing.
As we were walking to our gate, I grabbed a Chai Tea Latte from Starbucks. I love those and haven’t had any since getting back in the states 4 weeks ago! It was really good. We got to our gate about 3pm and they were supposed to start boarding at 3:30. A flight that was supposed to leave at 3pm from our gate was delayed waiting on their plane to show up. I thought we would be delayed waiting for them to leave, but their plane arrived and then the passengers had to wait for the new flight crew to show up and do their safety checks. They were still waiting at the gate after we boarded. It was interesting that Delta boarded 3 flights all at the same time from our gate. Once we walked through the doors, the long walk way just kept going. There were turn offs for the 3 different flights. One of the door people told me that they liked my haircut. I thought that was random but nice.
We got on the plane and it was before 4pm, which was our takeoff time. The plane was only half full. We got settled in and Sandy was trying not to be nervous. She was doing pretty well. There were 3 seats in our row. Seat A was on the left, then the aisle, then me and then Sandy by the window. A guy named Joe sat in seat A. He was from Brooklyn and was very outgoing and friendly. We had a great time chatting with him. He was on his way to Louisville to look at houses. He is thinking of relocating from NYC to live a slower paced life and look towards a family in the future. He got a kick out of how opposite his life in the city and Sandy’s life in the middle of 15 acres in the country is. He couldn’t believe that she can only get dial up internet and that she can’t get cable TV. Using an outdoor TV antenna blew his mind. When he asked why I had moved to Arkansas 22 years ago, I told him I wanted a slower paced life. He incredulously asked ‘more laid back that Indiana??’. Haha. Then I told him I now life most of the year in Nicaragua and he didn’t know what to think. He was really funny and I enjoyed hearing about his life and his rescue dog and such. It made the time pass by much quicker while we sat on the plane for 2 hours before taking off.
The Captain announced that the airport was using one runway for the traffic that would have used two. It took a long time to get airborn, but once we were up and above the turbulence, we were okay. Sandy was a little more relaxed by then, too. Since the plane was half empty, I moved to the seats behind us so that I could stretch out and so could Sandy. I moved back next to her for touchdown. The flight was fine and we made it to Louisville only hour late. Joe said he would friend me on facebook and I encouraged him to look up the Voice of Hope Ministries website to see how his donations (he likes to support good causes) would feed many, many children. I hope to hear from him so that I can hear more about his house search and relocation. I love meeting people while traveling. It’s a little gift that God brings into our lives if we would just pay attention.
Terry, Sandy’s husband, was waiting for us at the airport. We loaded up the car and then headed for a steakhouse for dinner. Yum! I was in the mood for a plain old steak and baked potato. I got some greenbeans for my side item and was very satisfied. We then headed home. It was almost 10 when we got home and we all headed for bed. Sandy and I just left our suitcases downstairs by the laundry room. No sense in hauling them upstairs just to bring the majority of stuff back down for washing.
I read a little bit before falling asleep. It was a nice trip, but it doesn’t seem like we were gone a whole week. Life starts back as normal tomorrow for Sandy and I resume my vacation in the states. I’m so thankful for God’s blessings of the trip.
We didn’t have to leave the hotel until noon, so we lounged around the room and ate our last breakfast. I had oatmeal and Sandy had left over tortellini. We finished up the last of the packing and moving things from one suitcase to another trying to figure out if we were okay on weight. We did good. We watched some HGTV of homes worth millions of dollars. Some were pretty and some were weird. I just kept thinking about how many families could have lived in those homes of over 10,000 square feet.
We checked out at the front desk and the doorman got us a taxi to the airport. Very quick and uneventful. We went across town and over some streets and eventually highways that we hadn’t seen. The weather looked a little cloudy, but mild. Sandy was a little worried about the plane ride, since she doesn’t fly much and doesn’t like it. But I told her it should be fine.
We got to the airport by 1pm. Check in at curbside was fast and easy, security was fast and easy. I hadn’t flown out of JFK before and was happy that everything was close by, since I didn’t want Sandy to have a bad experience.
We found a Chili’s to have lunch. We had the hot spinach/artichoke dip and I had grilled salmon, rice and broccoli. Sandy had a spicy grilled chicken breast, rice and broccoli. We were both happy with our meals. We could relax and sit there as long as we wanted, since it wasn’t too busy. We talked about our trip and the things we enjoyed doing.
As we were walking to our gate, I grabbed a Chai Tea Latte from Starbucks. I love those and haven’t had any since getting back in the states 4 weeks ago! It was really good. We got to our gate about 3pm and they were supposed to start boarding at 3:30. A flight that was supposed to leave at 3pm from our gate was delayed waiting on their plane to show up. I thought we would be delayed waiting for them to leave, but their plane arrived and then the passengers had to wait for the new flight crew to show up and do their safety checks. They were still waiting at the gate after we boarded. It was interesting that Delta boarded 3 flights all at the same time from our gate. Once we walked through the doors, the long walk way just kept going. There were turn offs for the 3 different flights. One of the door people told me that they liked my haircut. I thought that was random but nice.
We got on the plane and it was before 4pm, which was our takeoff time. The plane was only half full. We got settled in and Sandy was trying not to be nervous. She was doing pretty well. There were 3 seats in our row. Seat A was on the left, then the aisle, then me and then Sandy by the window. A guy named Joe sat in seat A. He was from Brooklyn and was very outgoing and friendly. We had a great time chatting with him. He was on his way to Louisville to look at houses. He is thinking of relocating from NYC to live a slower paced life and look towards a family in the future. He got a kick out of how opposite his life in the city and Sandy’s life in the middle of 15 acres in the country is. He couldn’t believe that she can only get dial up internet and that she can’t get cable TV. Using an outdoor TV antenna blew his mind. When he asked why I had moved to Arkansas 22 years ago, I told him I wanted a slower paced life. He incredulously asked ‘more laid back that Indiana??’. Haha. Then I told him I now life most of the year in Nicaragua and he didn’t know what to think. He was really funny and I enjoyed hearing about his life and his rescue dog and such. It made the time pass by much quicker while we sat on the plane for 2 hours before taking off.
The Captain announced that the airport was using one runway for the traffic that would have used two. It took a long time to get airborn, but once we were up and above the turbulence, we were okay. Sandy was a little more relaxed by then, too. Since the plane was half empty, I moved to the seats behind us so that I could stretch out and so could Sandy. I moved back next to her for touchdown. The flight was fine and we made it to Louisville only hour late. Joe said he would friend me on facebook and I encouraged him to look up the Voice of Hope Ministries website to see how his donations (he likes to support good causes) would feed many, many children. I hope to hear from him so that I can hear more about his house search and relocation. I love meeting people while traveling. It’s a little gift that God brings into our lives if we would just pay attention.
Terry, Sandy’s husband, was waiting for us at the airport. We loaded up the car and then headed for a steakhouse for dinner. Yum! I was in the mood for a plain old steak and baked potato. I got some greenbeans for my side item and was very satisfied. We then headed home. It was almost 10 when we got home and we all headed for bed. Sandy and I just left our suitcases downstairs by the laundry room. No sense in hauling them upstairs just to bring the majority of stuff back down for washing.
I read a little bit before falling asleep. It was a nice trip, but it doesn’t seem like we were gone a whole week. Life starts back as normal tomorrow for Sandy and I resume my vacation in the states. I’m so thankful for God’s blessings of the trip.
Wednesday, Sept 19, 2012
The weather is dry, but a little cool this morning, but it’s a nice morning. We had our usual breakfast in the room. I’m so glad we got the room with a microwave and mini-fridge! It’s saving us money on meals and it’s so nice to have things handy and not have to go out for every little thing.
We started the day by going uptown to visit my friend Erin and her 3 month old daughter, Kitty. Jason was at work, but it was great to see the girls!! Erin is one of the sweetest people I know and I’m so thrilled she’s a momma. She is loving it, even through the hard ‘first-time parent’ moments. Kitty is precious. It’s difficult and expensive to raise a child in NYC. Erin is a stay-at-home mom and thankful that God has worked that out for them, even with the sacrifices necessary to do so in NYC.
After a few hours with Erin and Kitty, we took off for our excursion to find some souvenirs and cannolis. We were at 145th street, so we took the subway to lower Manhattan, planning on going to Chinatown and Little Italy. I missed our stop and we ended up riding into Brooklyn. But it was a fun experience for Sandy, since we came up above ground and rode along the bottom of a bridge over the East River, then back underground in Brooklyn. We switched trains and got off back in Lower Manhattan near the Financial District. We walked a bit and saw some interesting things along the way. It was a pretty morning.
We stopped at a few shops in Chinatown and got some tshirts and some candy with Chinese writing on it for Sandy’s grandkids. Then we walked to Littly Italy, where the San Generro festival was still going on. We stopped in at a restaurant (one of many that had tables set up outside) and had some fresh made ravioli. It wasn’t a very big portion, but it was good. And this way we would have room for our newfound cannolis later in the afternoon.
We grabbed a train to the East Village and walked to Venieros, which is supposed to have the best cannolis (according to many friends). It was a neat old bakery and we loved looking at all the yummy choices. We got some mini cannolis and I got a delicious little tart with Bavarian cream. It was about the size of a golf ball and expensive, but looked good!
We took a crosstown bus and connected to one going uptown. It was very slow going for that time of day, with school letting out and all. Sandy got the taste of getting around parts of the city where the tourists are not hanging out. She was still trying to make out in her mind where we were all the time, and was usually way off base. We’ll study a map later on.
We were tired when we got back to the hotel. We started packing and then rested a little bit. Then we walked down to visit my friend Carol again and picked up some Bible Study cds that she wanted me to have. She writes and composes music, so she played one of her songs for us from her computer contraption. It was really pretty. There was a copy of the music sheets sitting on the coffee table and I took a picture of the title and the words printed on the top right that said “music and lyrics by Carol Jay”. I thought that was pretty cool. We said bye to Carol and gave her some of the food stuff that we had left over from our room.
We walked back up toward our hotel and stopped for a couple more souvenirs and then stopped at Patzeria restaurant near our hotel for a very delicious Italian dinner. I had fresh spaghetti and meatballs and Sandy had tortelini. I ate every bite of my dinner and Sandy took some of her tortellini to the hotel for breakfast. The restaurant was comfy and the staff was excellent. The food was perfect and I was a happy camper. It was a perfect last meal in NYC for us!
We finished packing and watched tv for awhile. We didn’t have to get up early any day of our vacation and it was so nice to go to bed when we felt like it and just be relaxed.
I couldn’t believe that our week was up. We did almost everything on our list and I got to see almost everyone that I was hopping to see. Sandy got to get away from cooking, cleaning, laundry and babysitting for a week. It has been a great vacation. God truly blessed us!
We started the day by going uptown to visit my friend Erin and her 3 month old daughter, Kitty. Jason was at work, but it was great to see the girls!! Erin is one of the sweetest people I know and I’m so thrilled she’s a momma. She is loving it, even through the hard ‘first-time parent’ moments. Kitty is precious. It’s difficult and expensive to raise a child in NYC. Erin is a stay-at-home mom and thankful that God has worked that out for them, even with the sacrifices necessary to do so in NYC.
After a few hours with Erin and Kitty, we took off for our excursion to find some souvenirs and cannolis. We were at 145th street, so we took the subway to lower Manhattan, planning on going to Chinatown and Little Italy. I missed our stop and we ended up riding into Brooklyn. But it was a fun experience for Sandy, since we came up above ground and rode along the bottom of a bridge over the East River, then back underground in Brooklyn. We switched trains and got off back in Lower Manhattan near the Financial District. We walked a bit and saw some interesting things along the way. It was a pretty morning.
We stopped at a few shops in Chinatown and got some tshirts and some candy with Chinese writing on it for Sandy’s grandkids. Then we walked to Littly Italy, where the San Generro festival was still going on. We stopped in at a restaurant (one of many that had tables set up outside) and had some fresh made ravioli. It wasn’t a very big portion, but it was good. And this way we would have room for our newfound cannolis later in the afternoon.
We grabbed a train to the East Village and walked to Venieros, which is supposed to have the best cannolis (according to many friends). It was a neat old bakery and we loved looking at all the yummy choices. We got some mini cannolis and I got a delicious little tart with Bavarian cream. It was about the size of a golf ball and expensive, but looked good!
We took a crosstown bus and connected to one going uptown. It was very slow going for that time of day, with school letting out and all. Sandy got the taste of getting around parts of the city where the tourists are not hanging out. She was still trying to make out in her mind where we were all the time, and was usually way off base. We’ll study a map later on.
We were tired when we got back to the hotel. We started packing and then rested a little bit. Then we walked down to visit my friend Carol again and picked up some Bible Study cds that she wanted me to have. She writes and composes music, so she played one of her songs for us from her computer contraption. It was really pretty. There was a copy of the music sheets sitting on the coffee table and I took a picture of the title and the words printed on the top right that said “music and lyrics by Carol Jay”. I thought that was pretty cool. We said bye to Carol and gave her some of the food stuff that we had left over from our room.
We walked back up toward our hotel and stopped for a couple more souvenirs and then stopped at Patzeria restaurant near our hotel for a very delicious Italian dinner. I had fresh spaghetti and meatballs and Sandy had tortelini. I ate every bite of my dinner and Sandy took some of her tortellini to the hotel for breakfast. The restaurant was comfy and the staff was excellent. The food was perfect and I was a happy camper. It was a perfect last meal in NYC for us!
We finished packing and watched tv for awhile. We didn’t have to get up early any day of our vacation and it was so nice to go to bed when we felt like it and just be relaxed.
I couldn’t believe that our week was up. We did almost everything on our list and I got to see almost everyone that I was hopping to see. Sandy got to get away from cooking, cleaning, laundry and babysitting for a week. It has been a great vacation. God truly blessed us!
Tuesday, Sept 18, 2012
Now that our New York Pass has expired, we are spending our time doing the things less touristy.
While I lived in NYC, I enjoyed shopping at a store called Avenue. I especially like the clearance stuff online, but they would sometimes have good sales in the store. Sandy was wanting to shop there while we were in town. We grabbed a bus across town and walked to the Avenue store. It was no longer there. It was drizzling outside, so we walked the couple of blocks to Grand Central Station to get out of the rain and make a bathroom stop. It’s always fun to look around there, too.
We grabbed the shuttle train over to Times Square and walked as far underground as we could. Luckily the rain had stopped and we walked a few blocks more to Yum Yum Bangkok, a favorite Thai restaurant of mine. We had a nice lunch there and then walked a few blocks more to our hotel.
We rested a few hours in the hotel and then left at 5pm to travel by subway uptown to the last stop to have dinner with my friends, the Webers. I had looked at a couple of apartments in Inwood before I moved to NYC and knew it was a long ride. The express train still took about 45 minutes. Sandy said she couldn’t imagine that trip every day. We came out of the subway entrance and I promptly got us turned around and going the wrong way. Haha As we were turning around on the sidewalk, a bus was letting people out and I heard my name being called. It was Jenny, carrying Jack, on her way home. It was so good to see her. We walked to their apartment and settled in.
Jack is so precious. He is 7 months old and the first thing I noticed was that he has his daddy’s hairline. Anyone who knows Keith will understand that statement. I got to hold Jack for a little bit until he got tired and hungry. Then mama took over and tried to get him to nap a little bit. He wanted to be with the company, though, and joined us in the kitchen while mama was cooking. Keith got home from work and we all had dinner and then Jack headed to bed. I didn’t get a picture of me holding Jack and I’m so bummed about that. I just didn’t think about it when it was the perfect time. I told Jenny I would have to come back for another visit to that! We had a great time of visiting. It was so good to see Keith and Jenny and meet Jack. What a precious time.
Sandy and I found our way back to the train and made our trek back to our hotel. As we walked from the subway to our hotel, Sandy didn’t recognize ‘our neighborhood’. It looks different at night, I guess. It was our first night to get back after dark (like I’ve mentioned, we’re having a RELAXING time and don’t stay out late). We settled in and still got a few hours of HGTV in before we went to sleep. We’re so predictable!
It was a very nice day. God is really revealing things to me this week. Getting to spend time in NYC, where I have fond memories from living there, has helped me put my current life more into perspective. God is showing many ways in which He has been faithful to me and it helps to reinforce that He will always be there (ahead of ) for me. Whatever plans He has in store for me are always perfect. I just have to let Him show me how perfect in HIS will. He’s showing me many things lately and I’m thankful for all of the lessons and revelations (even when the learning experience is painful). He is truly FAITHFUL!
While I lived in NYC, I enjoyed shopping at a store called Avenue. I especially like the clearance stuff online, but they would sometimes have good sales in the store. Sandy was wanting to shop there while we were in town. We grabbed a bus across town and walked to the Avenue store. It was no longer there. It was drizzling outside, so we walked the couple of blocks to Grand Central Station to get out of the rain and make a bathroom stop. It’s always fun to look around there, too.
We grabbed the shuttle train over to Times Square and walked as far underground as we could. Luckily the rain had stopped and we walked a few blocks more to Yum Yum Bangkok, a favorite Thai restaurant of mine. We had a nice lunch there and then walked a few blocks more to our hotel.
We rested a few hours in the hotel and then left at 5pm to travel by subway uptown to the last stop to have dinner with my friends, the Webers. I had looked at a couple of apartments in Inwood before I moved to NYC and knew it was a long ride. The express train still took about 45 minutes. Sandy said she couldn’t imagine that trip every day. We came out of the subway entrance and I promptly got us turned around and going the wrong way. Haha As we were turning around on the sidewalk, a bus was letting people out and I heard my name being called. It was Jenny, carrying Jack, on her way home. It was so good to see her. We walked to their apartment and settled in.
Jack is so precious. He is 7 months old and the first thing I noticed was that he has his daddy’s hairline. Anyone who knows Keith will understand that statement. I got to hold Jack for a little bit until he got tired and hungry. Then mama took over and tried to get him to nap a little bit. He wanted to be with the company, though, and joined us in the kitchen while mama was cooking. Keith got home from work and we all had dinner and then Jack headed to bed. I didn’t get a picture of me holding Jack and I’m so bummed about that. I just didn’t think about it when it was the perfect time. I told Jenny I would have to come back for another visit to that! We had a great time of visiting. It was so good to see Keith and Jenny and meet Jack. What a precious time.
Sandy and I found our way back to the train and made our trek back to our hotel. As we walked from the subway to our hotel, Sandy didn’t recognize ‘our neighborhood’. It looks different at night, I guess. It was our first night to get back after dark (like I’ve mentioned, we’re having a RELAXING time and don’t stay out late). We settled in and still got a few hours of HGTV in before we went to sleep. We’re so predictable!
It was a very nice day. God is really revealing things to me this week. Getting to spend time in NYC, where I have fond memories from living there, has helped me put my current life more into perspective. God is showing many ways in which He has been faithful to me and it helps to reinforce that He will always be there (ahead of ) for me. Whatever plans He has in store for me are always perfect. I just have to let Him show me how perfect in HIS will. He’s showing me many things lately and I’m thankful for all of the lessons and revelations (even when the learning experience is painful). He is truly FAITHFUL!
Monday, Sept 17, 2012
My back was killing me when we got up this morning. I felt like it was going to snap in two. I was in a lot of pain and took some Aleve and wore the dumb IcyHot patch, but I was determined that we wouldn’t waste a day in the city.
We had breakfast in the room. I had my oatmeal and Sandy had her bagel that she’s been enjoying in the mornings. Then we jumped on a bus and headed for Central Park.
As soon as we got to the corner of the Park, a pedi-cab driver asked if we wanted a tour. We were planning on a horse and carriage ride (if they weren’t too expensive) since I couldn’t walk much. The guy, named Abraham, was very friendly and we decided it was a better deal to go with him. It was a nice day and a nice tour. I didn’t tell him that I used to live in NYC, so that he would give us the full tourist treatment and we learned a lot from him. He was funny and informative and seemed to really enjoy his job. Even though he does this thing all the time, he never made us feel like it was routine. We enjoyed it very much. Sitting in the pedi-cab was relaxing for my back and I appreciated that respite. Abraham said he likes his name because for Christians it means Father of all and as a Muslim (which he professes) is means God’s best friend. At least that was his story and he was a happy guy. He was a breath of fresh air.
After the tour, we went across Columbus Circle to Whole Foods, where I used to buy most of my groceries, and had lunch from their hot bar. I love Whole Foods. They have so many great organic and fresh foods. It was a great place for my liver-friendly diet when I was living there. I had some roast chicken, roasted potatoes and green beans. Sandy had the roast chicken, mac & cheese and mashed potatoes. Everything was tasty. Sandy thought the check-out procedure with the numbers and announcements was a little weird, and it was crowded as always, so I think she was glad that her shopping experience back home is different.
After lunch, we headed across the bottom of the Park and shopped at FAO Schwartz. We saw lots of cute things, but only bought a little stuffed bear for Sandy’s coming grandson.
We then walked down Fifth Ave and stopped in at Tiffany’s, which was interesting. Sandy was disappointed that they didn’t have the price tags showing. Haha
We visited St Patrick’s Cathedral. I’ve been in there a few times, but this was the first time that mass wasn’t going on. We got to walk along one side and across the back and return up the other side. It was beautiful with little stations honoring different Saints and with candles everywhere. We sat down for a little bit for my back, but there was so much beautiful stained glass everywhere, that it was nice to take it all in.
Next we crossed the street and went into Rockefeller Center. Sandy had been there back during her first and very cold visit. The skating rink was happening at that time. This time of year, that area is full of umbrella tables for outdoor dining. We found our way to the entrance for the Top of the Rock Observation Deck. Our New York Pass allowed us to skip ahead and get our tickets to go up. We enjoyed it very much. More than the Empire State Building, actually. Since it’s just 60 or so floors up, we felt more like we were amongst the skyscrapers and we could look out and see the Empire State Building above us. It was a nice view and I took some pics with my phone. Sandy was enjoying trying to figure out where all we had been.
We then walked back down Fifth Ave to the American Doll Store. Sandy was going to look for some things for our Aunt Susie to give to her grand-daughter. That store cracks me up every time I go in there. I think it’s neat for little (and big) girls to have a place to get a doll and accessories, and to bring their dolls in for ‘treatments’. There is a hospital department, where your doll rides in a little wheelchair to get a cast, band-aid, sling, etc (for a cost, of course). Also, there is a hair salon, where the doll sits in a beauty shop chair and gets her hair done (another fee, of course). That was so cute and funny to watch. There’s another department where you can get a little t shirt (3 colors, choice of long or short sleeves) for your doll and a matching t shirt for yourself. You pick out appliqués for the shirts so that you can match your doll. The doll’s t shirt costs $10 and the girl’s t shirt costs $24. They were cute, though.
We then went back to the hotel for a little rest. It was nice to lay down a little bit and Sandy loves being in the room with the HGTV and her wi-fi access to her Kindle. We had a nice afternoon.
Later, we walked down to Times Square and had dinner at Chevy’s. It’s a favorite of mine for their grilled fish tacos. They have lots of good Tex-Mex food and Sandy enjoyed some loaded up nachos. We then walked up to Junior’s restaurant and got some cheesecake to go. I chose the chocolate mousse cheesecake and Sandy got the red velvet cheesecake. It’s like having 2 desserts in one with the multiple flavors piled on top of each other and the portions are large. We ended up eating them in multiple settings, and that was twice as nice!
We got back to our room before dark, as usual, and settled in and relaxed. My back was feeling better and I was looking forward to the next day. It wasn’t a really fast-paced day, but it was fun and enjoyable. I felt very blessed.
We had breakfast in the room. I had my oatmeal and Sandy had her bagel that she’s been enjoying in the mornings. Then we jumped on a bus and headed for Central Park.
As soon as we got to the corner of the Park, a pedi-cab driver asked if we wanted a tour. We were planning on a horse and carriage ride (if they weren’t too expensive) since I couldn’t walk much. The guy, named Abraham, was very friendly and we decided it was a better deal to go with him. It was a nice day and a nice tour. I didn’t tell him that I used to live in NYC, so that he would give us the full tourist treatment and we learned a lot from him. He was funny and informative and seemed to really enjoy his job. Even though he does this thing all the time, he never made us feel like it was routine. We enjoyed it very much. Sitting in the pedi-cab was relaxing for my back and I appreciated that respite. Abraham said he likes his name because for Christians it means Father of all and as a Muslim (which he professes) is means God’s best friend. At least that was his story and he was a happy guy. He was a breath of fresh air.
After the tour, we went across Columbus Circle to Whole Foods, where I used to buy most of my groceries, and had lunch from their hot bar. I love Whole Foods. They have so many great organic and fresh foods. It was a great place for my liver-friendly diet when I was living there. I had some roast chicken, roasted potatoes and green beans. Sandy had the roast chicken, mac & cheese and mashed potatoes. Everything was tasty. Sandy thought the check-out procedure with the numbers and announcements was a little weird, and it was crowded as always, so I think she was glad that her shopping experience back home is different.
After lunch, we headed across the bottom of the Park and shopped at FAO Schwartz. We saw lots of cute things, but only bought a little stuffed bear for Sandy’s coming grandson.
We then walked down Fifth Ave and stopped in at Tiffany’s, which was interesting. Sandy was disappointed that they didn’t have the price tags showing. Haha
We visited St Patrick’s Cathedral. I’ve been in there a few times, but this was the first time that mass wasn’t going on. We got to walk along one side and across the back and return up the other side. It was beautiful with little stations honoring different Saints and with candles everywhere. We sat down for a little bit for my back, but there was so much beautiful stained glass everywhere, that it was nice to take it all in.
Next we crossed the street and went into Rockefeller Center. Sandy had been there back during her first and very cold visit. The skating rink was happening at that time. This time of year, that area is full of umbrella tables for outdoor dining. We found our way to the entrance for the Top of the Rock Observation Deck. Our New York Pass allowed us to skip ahead and get our tickets to go up. We enjoyed it very much. More than the Empire State Building, actually. Since it’s just 60 or so floors up, we felt more like we were amongst the skyscrapers and we could look out and see the Empire State Building above us. It was a nice view and I took some pics with my phone. Sandy was enjoying trying to figure out where all we had been.
We then walked back down Fifth Ave to the American Doll Store. Sandy was going to look for some things for our Aunt Susie to give to her grand-daughter. That store cracks me up every time I go in there. I think it’s neat for little (and big) girls to have a place to get a doll and accessories, and to bring their dolls in for ‘treatments’. There is a hospital department, where your doll rides in a little wheelchair to get a cast, band-aid, sling, etc (for a cost, of course). Also, there is a hair salon, where the doll sits in a beauty shop chair and gets her hair done (another fee, of course). That was so cute and funny to watch. There’s another department where you can get a little t shirt (3 colors, choice of long or short sleeves) for your doll and a matching t shirt for yourself. You pick out appliqués for the shirts so that you can match your doll. The doll’s t shirt costs $10 and the girl’s t shirt costs $24. They were cute, though.
We then went back to the hotel for a little rest. It was nice to lay down a little bit and Sandy loves being in the room with the HGTV and her wi-fi access to her Kindle. We had a nice afternoon.
Later, we walked down to Times Square and had dinner at Chevy’s. It’s a favorite of mine for their grilled fish tacos. They have lots of good Tex-Mex food and Sandy enjoyed some loaded up nachos. We then walked up to Junior’s restaurant and got some cheesecake to go. I chose the chocolate mousse cheesecake and Sandy got the red velvet cheesecake. It’s like having 2 desserts in one with the multiple flavors piled on top of each other and the portions are large. We ended up eating them in multiple settings, and that was twice as nice!
We got back to our room before dark, as usual, and settled in and relaxed. My back was feeling better and I was looking forward to the next day. It wasn’t a really fast-paced day, but it was fun and enjoyable. I felt very blessed.
Sunday, Sept 16, 2012
Sandy’s birthday!! She’s trying to ignore it, but we’ll have fun in NYC anyway.
We took the subway down to the Statue of Liberty/Ellis Island Ferry. Since we have the New York Pass, we got to skip the line to buy tickets and go to the security area. It wasn’t overly crowded, but it was nice to skip ahead. The weather was great, not too hot, but sunny. We skipped touring the Liberty Island, since the best views of the statue are actually from the water. We stayed on the ferry and went on over to Ellis Island. We spent a few hours touring Ellis Island and enjoying learning about the history.
We got back to Manhattan and took the subway to head to the Empire State Building. We had lunch in a restaurant on ground level of the building. It was yummy and then we up to the observation deck. Sandy thought the elevator going up to the 80th floor was fun. It was very fast, but didn’t feel weird. It just made our ears pop a few times.
I had been up in the building once before at nighttime and I remember it felt a little scary when I first walked out. I was expecting that same chill this time. Even though I’m very scared of heights, I was more comfortable during the daytime. I took some pictures and we looked around all four sides.
With our New York Pass, we were eligible to do the Sky Ride, but we chose not to scare ourselves. ☺ We came back down to ground level and marked the Empire State Building off of our bucket list.
We stopped in at Macy’s and checked out what the deal was for our discount with the New York Pass. We looked around a little bit, but since they didn’t have the Christmas merchandise out yet, Sandy wasn’t all that excited about shopping. I had no interest in buying anything anyway, but I do love riding up and down the old escalators between all 9 floors.
We stopped in at K-Mart for some items and then headed back to the hotel. My back was killing me. I had twisted or something and had muscle spasms and felt like something was pinched. I was miserable, but didn’t want to miss anything, so I kept on chugging along.
Back at the hotel I soaked in a tub of very hot water, took some Aleve (which is not good for my liver, but oh well) and put on an Icy Hot patch. I was miserable all night long, but did get a little bit of sleep. I was definitely ready to feel better! But I was thankful that we could be here in NYC for our vacation.
It was a nice day of sightseeing. Not too rushed. We relax when we feel like it. It’s a good week for both of us. I’m so thankful that God would allow me to have this fun.
We took the subway down to the Statue of Liberty/Ellis Island Ferry. Since we have the New York Pass, we got to skip the line to buy tickets and go to the security area. It wasn’t overly crowded, but it was nice to skip ahead. The weather was great, not too hot, but sunny. We skipped touring the Liberty Island, since the best views of the statue are actually from the water. We stayed on the ferry and went on over to Ellis Island. We spent a few hours touring Ellis Island and enjoying learning about the history.
We got back to Manhattan and took the subway to head to the Empire State Building. We had lunch in a restaurant on ground level of the building. It was yummy and then we up to the observation deck. Sandy thought the elevator going up to the 80th floor was fun. It was very fast, but didn’t feel weird. It just made our ears pop a few times.
I had been up in the building once before at nighttime and I remember it felt a little scary when I first walked out. I was expecting that same chill this time. Even though I’m very scared of heights, I was more comfortable during the daytime. I took some pictures and we looked around all four sides.
With our New York Pass, we were eligible to do the Sky Ride, but we chose not to scare ourselves. ☺ We came back down to ground level and marked the Empire State Building off of our bucket list.
We stopped in at Macy’s and checked out what the deal was for our discount with the New York Pass. We looked around a little bit, but since they didn’t have the Christmas merchandise out yet, Sandy wasn’t all that excited about shopping. I had no interest in buying anything anyway, but I do love riding up and down the old escalators between all 9 floors.
We stopped in at K-Mart for some items and then headed back to the hotel. My back was killing me. I had twisted or something and had muscle spasms and felt like something was pinched. I was miserable, but didn’t want to miss anything, so I kept on chugging along.
Back at the hotel I soaked in a tub of very hot water, took some Aleve (which is not good for my liver, but oh well) and put on an Icy Hot patch. I was miserable all night long, but did get a little bit of sleep. I was definitely ready to feel better! But I was thankful that we could be here in NYC for our vacation.
It was a nice day of sightseeing. Not too rushed. We relax when we feel like it. It’s a good week for both of us. I’m so thankful that God would allow me to have this fun.
Saturday, September 15, 2012
September 14-15, 2012
Friday - Our first day to explore NYC. We got up and took our time getting ready, enjoying not having a timetable to follow. We walked down to a little restaurant near Times Square and had bagels for breakfast.
Then we grabbed the subway to Chinatown. We shopped for bags for us and something to use for a diaperbag for my niece. We ate lunch at Wo Hop, a favorite little place from the days when I lived here. It was great and we had so much food, we had to bring carryout back to the hotel. On the way back from Chinatown, we walked through Little Italy and enjoyed seeing all the festivities for the festival going on this weekend. We stopped and bought some canolls for a late night snack. Sandy had never had one before, so she also got an éclair as a back up.
We took the subway to Grand Central Station to walk around a little bit. We had spent a little time in there when Sandy and Stacey came to visit me in 2008. I love the building and we enjoyed walking around and gawking like tourists! The weather was beautiful outside so we walked back to our hotel for a little rest.
We met my friend Carol at a restaurant across from her apartment building. I had a really good salad, Sandy enjoyed a wrap (and brought half home for breakfast) and Carol had a great looking burger and fries. It was so good to see Carol.
After our visit, Sandy and I walked a little way into Times Square and stopped at the Skechers store again. I tried on some shoes, but decided not to get any more. After that, we walked back to the hotel, after stopping off at the corner store for some juice & stuff for our little kitchenette. We spent the rest of the evening relaxing on our beds and watching tv and getting on the internet. It was a very good day.
Saturday – Day #2
We got up leisurely and had breakfast in the room (leftovers from yesterday for Sandy and oatmeal for me). We went to the Intrepid Air and Space Museum for the morning. It’s an aircraft carrier that has been made into a museum with all kinds of planes, helicopters, space stuff, even the Enterprise Space Shuttle. We spent about three hours there looking at things and watching videos. It was pretty cool. There was a little health fair going on, so we both got our blood pressures checked (good for each of us) and got some giveaway stuff, including pedometers. Fun!
We made a pit-stop at the hotel to drop off our goodies. We then went to have lunch at Uncle Nick’s Greek restaurant. It was so good! We are trying to explore lots of cuisines and also not eat at all the touristy places. I’m loving visiting my old favorites from when I lived here.
After lunch, we walked back over to the Hudson River area and got our tickets for the New York Water Taxi tour. It’s a Hop On Hop Off kind of thing, so we got on at Midtown and rode down to Battery Park. The tour guide was very entertaining and we enjoyed it. We rode up top in the open, but there were some people standing between our seats and the railing chatting away, so we didn’t have a really great view, but we could see what was going on. From Battery Park we walked to the 9/11 Memorial site and went through the lines and security to visit the beautiful Memorial Park that has been built in honor of those lost on 9/11 at the World Trade Center. It was beautiful and peaceful. I was impressed with the atmosphere and a wonderful tribute to those lives lost.
After the 9/11 Memorial, we walked back to Battery Park and got back on the Water Taxi tour. It stopped at South Street Seaport, DUMBO in Brooklyn, near the Statue of Liberty and then back to Midtown. We sure enjoyed it. It was great to get to sit for a while, too.
We were so tired of walking that we chose to take the bus back towards the hotel. We stopped at an Amish bakery and grocery store. I got food from the hot-bar since Sandy had leftovers in the room’s mini-fridge. We also both got another canoli. Once back to the room, we eat dinner and evaluated the canolis (which were ok, but not as good as Littly Italy – go figure!) and relaxed the rest of the evening.
We both enjoy HGTV and she doesn’t get that channel at her house and I don’t get TV in Nica, so we have been watching that channel a lot these last few days. A very nice treat for us!
It’s been a very nice few days and we are truly enjoying this time away from regular life. I’m so thankful that the Lord is giving me this week of reconnecting to my life here in NYC. I’m loving it!
Then we grabbed the subway to Chinatown. We shopped for bags for us and something to use for a diaperbag for my niece. We ate lunch at Wo Hop, a favorite little place from the days when I lived here. It was great and we had so much food, we had to bring carryout back to the hotel. On the way back from Chinatown, we walked through Little Italy and enjoyed seeing all the festivities for the festival going on this weekend. We stopped and bought some canolls for a late night snack. Sandy had never had one before, so she also got an éclair as a back up.
We took the subway to Grand Central Station to walk around a little bit. We had spent a little time in there when Sandy and Stacey came to visit me in 2008. I love the building and we enjoyed walking around and gawking like tourists! The weather was beautiful outside so we walked back to our hotel for a little rest.
We met my friend Carol at a restaurant across from her apartment building. I had a really good salad, Sandy enjoyed a wrap (and brought half home for breakfast) and Carol had a great looking burger and fries. It was so good to see Carol.
After our visit, Sandy and I walked a little way into Times Square and stopped at the Skechers store again. I tried on some shoes, but decided not to get any more. After that, we walked back to the hotel, after stopping off at the corner store for some juice & stuff for our little kitchenette. We spent the rest of the evening relaxing on our beds and watching tv and getting on the internet. It was a very good day.
Saturday – Day #2
We got up leisurely and had breakfast in the room (leftovers from yesterday for Sandy and oatmeal for me). We went to the Intrepid Air and Space Museum for the morning. It’s an aircraft carrier that has been made into a museum with all kinds of planes, helicopters, space stuff, even the Enterprise Space Shuttle. We spent about three hours there looking at things and watching videos. It was pretty cool. There was a little health fair going on, so we both got our blood pressures checked (good for each of us) and got some giveaway stuff, including pedometers. Fun!
We made a pit-stop at the hotel to drop off our goodies. We then went to have lunch at Uncle Nick’s Greek restaurant. It was so good! We are trying to explore lots of cuisines and also not eat at all the touristy places. I’m loving visiting my old favorites from when I lived here.
After lunch, we walked back over to the Hudson River area and got our tickets for the New York Water Taxi tour. It’s a Hop On Hop Off kind of thing, so we got on at Midtown and rode down to Battery Park. The tour guide was very entertaining and we enjoyed it. We rode up top in the open, but there were some people standing between our seats and the railing chatting away, so we didn’t have a really great view, but we could see what was going on. From Battery Park we walked to the 9/11 Memorial site and went through the lines and security to visit the beautiful Memorial Park that has been built in honor of those lost on 9/11 at the World Trade Center. It was beautiful and peaceful. I was impressed with the atmosphere and a wonderful tribute to those lives lost.
After the 9/11 Memorial, we walked back to Battery Park and got back on the Water Taxi tour. It stopped at South Street Seaport, DUMBO in Brooklyn, near the Statue of Liberty and then back to Midtown. We sure enjoyed it. It was great to get to sit for a while, too.
We were so tired of walking that we chose to take the bus back towards the hotel. We stopped at an Amish bakery and grocery store. I got food from the hot-bar since Sandy had leftovers in the room’s mini-fridge. We also both got another canoli. Once back to the room, we eat dinner and evaluated the canolis (which were ok, but not as good as Littly Italy – go figure!) and relaxed the rest of the evening.
We both enjoy HGTV and she doesn’t get that channel at her house and I don’t get TV in Nica, so we have been watching that channel a lot these last few days. A very nice treat for us!
It’s been a very nice few days and we are truly enjoying this time away from regular life. I’m so thankful that the Lord is giving me this week of reconnecting to my life here in NYC. I’m loving it!
Thursday, September 13, 2012
September 13, 2012
Exciting day!!! My sister Sandy and I left Indiana for a week in NYC!!!
Terry (bro-in-law) and Colten (great-nephew) drove us to the Louisville airport. I love flying in and out of that airport because it is relatively small and easy to get to and easy to get around in. The prices are usually cheaper or at least the same as the tickets from Indianapolis. My family live about halfway between Indy and Louisville, so it works out well to use the Louisville airport.
Anyway, Colten has been to the airport a couple of times to either pick me up or drop me off. He was fine with the trip. That is until he realized that his Mamaw was getting out of the car, too. After letting us out, Terry drove away with Colten crying, but I’m sure that all was well soon enough. Colten loves seeing the airplanes, school buses, semi trucks and tractors. He had lots to keep him busy while riding down the highway.
Our flight was pretty good. Sandy doesn’t fly much, so she was a little nervous. I hadn’t flown in to or out of JFK airport before, but we didn’t have any major trouble getting our luggage and out of the airport. We were in the taxi line, but someone told us about a car that we could get in pretty quick and the taxi line was long and slow. So we rode in a car with a guy from Australia. It was interesting listening to the accent. It took us 2.5 hours to get the 19 miles to our hotel, due to traffic. But we had fun looking out the windows and putting ourselves in ‘relaxing vacation’ mode.
We got checked in to our hotel, which is really nice. We sprung for the deluxe double room which comes with a kitchenette, desk, dresser, free wi-fi and other amenities. There is a large screen tv, so we plan to have some relaxing times laying in our beds with the tv on and reading or being on the internet and just chilling.
After checking in, we walked down to John’s Pizza and enjoyed a yummy veggie pizza dinner. Then we walked down to Time’s Square and stopped in the Skechers store to look around. Pretty stuff! We strolled back toward the hotel and stopped at a little store for juice for breakfast in the morning.
I’m so thankful that God made it possible for me to be here this week. Frequent flyer miles and some savings and special blessings have made it possible for me to travel here. Sandy was really needing a vacation away from all that has happened this past year. She was in vacation mode as soon as we arrived at the airport in Louisville!
It’s been over 3 years since I left here after living and serving here for 2 years. I have very fond memories and I was hoping that I would still feel the same way when walking down the streets. I feel very happy and content to be here.
We will see some sites that we have picked out, enjoy different types of food, do a little shopping (mostly Sandy), visit some friends of mine who live here, and enjoy just hanging out and not being on any particular schedule. What fun!
My mind is on some friends who are going through some tough times in Nica. I wish I could be there with them, but I’m praying for them and I’m thankful that there is internet to keep in touch. And I’m thankful that God is keeping us connected and He is holding them in His hands.
Terry (bro-in-law) and Colten (great-nephew) drove us to the Louisville airport. I love flying in and out of that airport because it is relatively small and easy to get to and easy to get around in. The prices are usually cheaper or at least the same as the tickets from Indianapolis. My family live about halfway between Indy and Louisville, so it works out well to use the Louisville airport.
Anyway, Colten has been to the airport a couple of times to either pick me up or drop me off. He was fine with the trip. That is until he realized that his Mamaw was getting out of the car, too. After letting us out, Terry drove away with Colten crying, but I’m sure that all was well soon enough. Colten loves seeing the airplanes, school buses, semi trucks and tractors. He had lots to keep him busy while riding down the highway.
Our flight was pretty good. Sandy doesn’t fly much, so she was a little nervous. I hadn’t flown in to or out of JFK airport before, but we didn’t have any major trouble getting our luggage and out of the airport. We were in the taxi line, but someone told us about a car that we could get in pretty quick and the taxi line was long and slow. So we rode in a car with a guy from Australia. It was interesting listening to the accent. It took us 2.5 hours to get the 19 miles to our hotel, due to traffic. But we had fun looking out the windows and putting ourselves in ‘relaxing vacation’ mode.
We got checked in to our hotel, which is really nice. We sprung for the deluxe double room which comes with a kitchenette, desk, dresser, free wi-fi and other amenities. There is a large screen tv, so we plan to have some relaxing times laying in our beds with the tv on and reading or being on the internet and just chilling.
After checking in, we walked down to John’s Pizza and enjoyed a yummy veggie pizza dinner. Then we walked down to Time’s Square and stopped in the Skechers store to look around. Pretty stuff! We strolled back toward the hotel and stopped at a little store for juice for breakfast in the morning.
I’m so thankful that God made it possible for me to be here this week. Frequent flyer miles and some savings and special blessings have made it possible for me to travel here. Sandy was really needing a vacation away from all that has happened this past year. She was in vacation mode as soon as we arrived at the airport in Louisville!
It’s been over 3 years since I left here after living and serving here for 2 years. I have very fond memories and I was hoping that I would still feel the same way when walking down the streets. I feel very happy and content to be here.
We will see some sites that we have picked out, enjoy different types of food, do a little shopping (mostly Sandy), visit some friends of mine who live here, and enjoy just hanging out and not being on any particular schedule. What fun!
My mind is on some friends who are going through some tough times in Nica. I wish I could be there with them, but I’m praying for them and I’m thankful that there is internet to keep in touch. And I’m thankful that God is keeping us connected and He is holding them in His hands.
September 10-12, 2012
Monday was spent with Mom, Colten and Sandy. We went to Olive Garden (Mom’s request) for a yummy lunch. Colten and I fell asleep in the car on the way back home. We took Mom home and stopped by Colten’s house to use the internet for awhile. Colten loves to show us around his house (no matter how many times we have been there). He is so funny sometimes. We came on to Sandy’s house and played outside for awhile. Stacey came after work visited until time for Colten to go home to bed. It is so nice to see her. She is expecting a little brother for Colten in November. (I was hoping for a GIRL, but no such luck this time! I told her to be planning on a third pregnancy for next year!)
Tuesday I needed to go back to Stacey’s house for some internet time. Sandy dropped me off there on her way to the dentist. I got a lot of work done. We went to Hobby Lobby and Carson’s department store and had a yummy lunch at Blues BBQ. Can’t beat brisket and sweet potato casserole! We got back to Sandy’s and worked on laundry and packing!
Wednesday (today) started off with a nice walk. We made a last trip to Walmart for a few things and Kohl’s for Sandy to use her many coupons and discounts. We had lunch at Sirloin Stockade, which was great for salad, meat and veggies! I didn’t even eat dessert because I was chowing on those veggies! We stopped at Stacey’s so I could answer some work related emails and we could check-in for our flight tomorrow. We made it home and finished packing for NYC. I’m sure we are overpacked, but we still have some room in our luggage to bring back all the souvenirs that Sandy wants to get for the kids.
Now we are sitting here all ready to go! We just have to sleep and get up and go. I’m going to get to visit some friends who still live in NYC. I met them when I lived there and served as a missionary from 2007-2009. I haven’t been back since and I know that it won’t be the same as the special memories of living there. But, I’m going back as a tourist this time and it will be strictly fun! Sandy needs this vacation after this hard year that started with finding my Father passed away the first of January. Then there was my niece’s wedding in February, months of working on Dad’s estate and unbelievable tasks of handling all of the personal property and collections. (It was crazy!) She also babysits the grandkids weekly and cooks, cleans, cans and freezes the produce from the garden, etc. She’s ready for a vacation!!!
God has blessed me so much. He renews me emotionally and spiritually all of the time. Some experiences are hard, but those are the ones in which He reveals the most to me about myself and my relationship with Him. As hard as it is to be away from Nica, which I feel is my ‘home’ for now, it is good to visit friends and family in the US. I feel that God pulls me away from things just enough for me to remember that this world is not permanent. It’s hard sometimes, but it’s more like seeing things from His perspective. I trust Him and love Him and only want to live for Him.
Tuesday I needed to go back to Stacey’s house for some internet time. Sandy dropped me off there on her way to the dentist. I got a lot of work done. We went to Hobby Lobby and Carson’s department store and had a yummy lunch at Blues BBQ. Can’t beat brisket and sweet potato casserole! We got back to Sandy’s and worked on laundry and packing!
Wednesday (today) started off with a nice walk. We made a last trip to Walmart for a few things and Kohl’s for Sandy to use her many coupons and discounts. We had lunch at Sirloin Stockade, which was great for salad, meat and veggies! I didn’t even eat dessert because I was chowing on those veggies! We stopped at Stacey’s so I could answer some work related emails and we could check-in for our flight tomorrow. We made it home and finished packing for NYC. I’m sure we are overpacked, but we still have some room in our luggage to bring back all the souvenirs that Sandy wants to get for the kids.
Now we are sitting here all ready to go! We just have to sleep and get up and go. I’m going to get to visit some friends who still live in NYC. I met them when I lived there and served as a missionary from 2007-2009. I haven’t been back since and I know that it won’t be the same as the special memories of living there. But, I’m going back as a tourist this time and it will be strictly fun! Sandy needs this vacation after this hard year that started with finding my Father passed away the first of January. Then there was my niece’s wedding in February, months of working on Dad’s estate and unbelievable tasks of handling all of the personal property and collections. (It was crazy!) She also babysits the grandkids weekly and cooks, cleans, cans and freezes the produce from the garden, etc. She’s ready for a vacation!!!
God has blessed me so much. He renews me emotionally and spiritually all of the time. Some experiences are hard, but those are the ones in which He reveals the most to me about myself and my relationship with Him. As hard as it is to be away from Nica, which I feel is my ‘home’ for now, it is good to visit friends and family in the US. I feel that God pulls me away from things just enough for me to remember that this world is not permanent. It’s hard sometimes, but it’s more like seeing things from His perspective. I trust Him and love Him and only want to live for Him.
September 7-9, 2012
Friday started our marathon week of shopping and errands to get ready for our trip to NYC. I took care of some personal banking needs where I have the little nest-egg from my Dad’s estate. We got pedicures (how frivolous!), enjoyed a wonderful smoothie, spent some time with my Mom and step-dad and had lunch. We spent the evening at Sandy’s house. A very nice day!
Saturday morning, Sandy and I went to the outlet mall and met up with Stacey and then went to Greenwood for some shopping. I really enjoy looking at stuff and Sandy loves buying! We are both very clearance conscious and love looking for bargains. We enjoyed lunch and then headed back home. We stopped at the grocery store and I found some ‘allowed’ foods to fix this week. We stopped to pick up my 6 year old great-nephew Conner and his half brother Isaac. They spent the night with us at Sandy’s. It was interesting and fun!
Sunday morning, Sandy, Terry, me, the boys and Mom all met at the church near my Mom’s house. She and Gary are going to start going there. It was a very nice service. We went to the contemporary service because it was later and easier to get the boys to. I imagine that Mom and Gary will probably go to the earlier traditional service, but they like the contemporary one, too. I really like the Pastor and the people were very welcoming. I also loved being in a building that was older, but well kept up and added on to. It seemed refreshing to me not to be in a building that is brand spanking new and very expensive. The building seemed well loved and taken care of. The people seemed united and loving. I think Mom and Gary will be very happy there and I look forward to visiting there when I’m in Columbus visiting family.
My nephew Curtis came out Conner’s older half-sister Emily. Stacey, Rob and Colten came out and we had a cookout and some cake for Sandy’s early birthday. It was a beautiful day and we enjoyed being outside. (Sandy’s birthday is actually on the 16th and she will be in NYC with me, so we’ll have to do something really fun for that day!)
Saturday morning, Sandy and I went to the outlet mall and met up with Stacey and then went to Greenwood for some shopping. I really enjoy looking at stuff and Sandy loves buying! We are both very clearance conscious and love looking for bargains. We enjoyed lunch and then headed back home. We stopped at the grocery store and I found some ‘allowed’ foods to fix this week. We stopped to pick up my 6 year old great-nephew Conner and his half brother Isaac. They spent the night with us at Sandy’s. It was interesting and fun!
Sunday morning, Sandy, Terry, me, the boys and Mom all met at the church near my Mom’s house. She and Gary are going to start going there. It was a very nice service. We went to the contemporary service because it was later and easier to get the boys to. I imagine that Mom and Gary will probably go to the earlier traditional service, but they like the contemporary one, too. I really like the Pastor and the people were very welcoming. I also loved being in a building that was older, but well kept up and added on to. It seemed refreshing to me not to be in a building that is brand spanking new and very expensive. The building seemed well loved and taken care of. The people seemed united and loving. I think Mom and Gary will be very happy there and I look forward to visiting there when I’m in Columbus visiting family.
My nephew Curtis came out Conner’s older half-sister Emily. Stacey, Rob and Colten came out and we had a cookout and some cake for Sandy’s early birthday. It was a beautiful day and we enjoyed being outside. (Sandy’s birthday is actually on the 16th and she will be in NYC with me, so we’ll have to do something really fun for that day!)
September 6, 2012
September is full of special Thursdays. I thought it would be easier to remember if I just made all my travel days on Thursday. So far, it’s helping my memory!
On the 6th, I flew to Indiana for 3 weeks to visit with family. Since I’m in the states for 2 months, I’m splitting my time between Arkansas (3 weeks), Indiana (3 weeks) and Arkansas again (3 weeks).
My flight wasn’t until noon, so I got to have a nice and relaxing morning. When I got to the airport, my flight was delayed. Great. I only had a hour layover in Chicago to begin with. But we got out of XNA 15 only 15 minutes late. The flight attendant told me that my gate from Chicago to Louisville should be in the same terminal and probably very near my arrival gate. WRONG. It was actually in a whole other terminal. I waited for the shuttle and then arrived at my gate right when they were loading the passengers with special needs or traveling with children. There was a restroom nearby and I rushed in and still made it on the plane in time. Whew! I called my sister quickly to tell her that I made my connection and found out that she was almost to the Louisville airport to pick me up. Haha She always worries about having problems on the road, so she gets there extra early.
Anyway, my flight was fine and it was so fun to see her and my great-nephew Colten (2 ½) at the airport. Colten is like a little man. Sandy had him in a stroller to keep him from getting too tired (they arrived an hour early!) and to keep him under control. ☺ She was walking around with him and he was sitting in the stroller with one ankle on the other knee like a little man, just relaxing and people watching. I was glad that he actually let me come home with Sandy. He has only seen me a few times in his life and he didn’t particularly want me taking up his Mamaw’s time. Sandy said that he did ask if they could go to the zoo to see the animals instead of coming to the airport to get me. But he was nice and let me come home!
We stopped for dinner on the way home, since I hadn’t had anything to eat since breakfast. I had a very yummy Arby’s sandwich. Colten and I took turns tearing up napkins and making balls out of them to throw. I don’t think that Sandy exactly liked our entertainment, but we thought it was fun. The weather was beautiful and we had a good trip (1.5 hours) back to Sandy’s house. It was a pretty good travel day!
On the 6th, I flew to Indiana for 3 weeks to visit with family. Since I’m in the states for 2 months, I’m splitting my time between Arkansas (3 weeks), Indiana (3 weeks) and Arkansas again (3 weeks).
My flight wasn’t until noon, so I got to have a nice and relaxing morning. When I got to the airport, my flight was delayed. Great. I only had a hour layover in Chicago to begin with. But we got out of XNA 15 only 15 minutes late. The flight attendant told me that my gate from Chicago to Louisville should be in the same terminal and probably very near my arrival gate. WRONG. It was actually in a whole other terminal. I waited for the shuttle and then arrived at my gate right when they were loading the passengers with special needs or traveling with children. There was a restroom nearby and I rushed in and still made it on the plane in time. Whew! I called my sister quickly to tell her that I made my connection and found out that she was almost to the Louisville airport to pick me up. Haha She always worries about having problems on the road, so she gets there extra early.
Anyway, my flight was fine and it was so fun to see her and my great-nephew Colten (2 ½) at the airport. Colten is like a little man. Sandy had him in a stroller to keep him from getting too tired (they arrived an hour early!) and to keep him under control. ☺ She was walking around with him and he was sitting in the stroller with one ankle on the other knee like a little man, just relaxing and people watching. I was glad that he actually let me come home with Sandy. He has only seen me a few times in his life and he didn’t particularly want me taking up his Mamaw’s time. Sandy said that he did ask if they could go to the zoo to see the animals instead of coming to the airport to get me. But he was nice and let me come home!
We stopped for dinner on the way home, since I hadn’t had anything to eat since breakfast. I had a very yummy Arby’s sandwich. Colten and I took turns tearing up napkins and making balls out of them to throw. I don’t think that Sandy exactly liked our entertainment, but we thought it was fun. The weather was beautiful and we had a good trip (1.5 hours) back to Sandy’s house. It was a pretty good travel day!
Wednesday, September 5, 2012
Sept 1 - 5, 2012
Saturday was a great day of sunshine. After expecting possible storms, it was nice to have calm weather. Although, NWA could have used more rain. I got some laundry done, emails sent, shopping accomplished and some computer work caught up on. I also had on HGTV and was entertained by all the money and work people put into upgrading perfectly good homes into expensive ‘better’ homes. Some of the shows are good, though, as they improve the living conditions of the families. I like the shows regardless…
Sunday was a wonderful day of worship with Cuerpo Vivo church. There were baptisms, child dedications, church-wide intercessory prayer, a great message, awesome praise music and the always present Holy Spirit. I love being at Cuerpo Vivo church! After the service, I visited my friend Elizabeth and took her a sewing machine and supplies. She was thrilled. She fed me some tortillas hot off the griddle with cheese and some beans. What a treat! After her visit, I went next door to Nana Ruth’s house and visited with her. She had been feeling under the weather, but is doing better. It was great to have time to relax and chat.
I got a nice nap in and cleaned up the den at Deanna’s, where I have exploded with my work stuff and items for Nica. I have so many little things going on that I have piles everywhere. But it’s okay. It was a very nice day!
Monday was Labor Day and I enjoyed a nice morning walk. I ran into my friend Isidro and had a nice chat. Then I ran into my friend Kristi, who was on her bike. We had a nice chat, too. It was sunny and very hot. But it was good to be outside.
Later in the day, I worked on printing pictures to share with some fine ladies at FBCR on Tuesday. It’s so hard to decide what pictures to show. I want to use them all, but I know that it would drive everyone crazy!
I got some guitar practice in and am still seasoning my finger tips. But I’m determined to learn! Most of my practice and lessons will happen when I get back to Nica, where I will have a constant teacher and access to a guitar all of the time. I’m going to love it when I learn more!
On Tuesday morning, I ran the borrowed guitar back to Janalyn at FBCR so that she could use it to teach her music class. I got to see a few friends who were there for the beginning of the Ladies’ Tuesday Bible Studies. I love getting to see people!
I ran to the bank, Walmart and got some gas, before returning home to finish putting the stuff together for the Nica talk. The Naomi Class is made up of wonderful senior adult ladies who have faithfully prayed for me and supported since I first went into the mission field full time in 2007. I just love these ladies and hope to be like them when I grow up! We had a great time talking about what God is doing in Nica and how blessed I am to be used by Him. They are very much a part of my ministry opportunities since they help to send me out. I love them very much! The rest of the day was spent making a yummy fresh-veggie pizza for me and Deanna, doing laundry and packing for my trip to Indiana. It was another great day!
Wednesday started off busy with a trip to work with my friend JP, who is helping me build my website to keep everyone up to date on what God is doing in my life and how their prayers and support are making a difference for the Kingdom. Then I scurried over to have a lunch meeting with Rusty and Lynn Branson. Rusty is doing some printing work for me for the ministry.
Then I ran back to the house to get ready for my photo session for the Church Directory at FBCR. The photo stuff went very well and I was pleasantly surprised with the whole experience and the outcome. I don’t like pictures of myself, but they did miracles and the pics turned out pretty good!
My new glasses came in just in time for my trip tomorrow to Indiana. I ran over to the Vision Center and my friend Donna got me all fitted just perfect. She had picked out the frames for me and I really like them. She did a good job!
I got the chance to talk to Mary today by phone. We had a good chat and lots of laughs. We’re both missing Nica, but having fun seeing family and friends.
Deanna is getting new carpet tomorrow, so some of her family came to help move furniture. It was nice to see them.
I’m all packed for Indiana (and NYC). I’ve been catching up on some computer work and printing stuff before heading to bed. I hope I’m not forgetting anything!
It’s time for bed and I’m wide awake. I’m glad that my flight is not too early. I’ll still have time to wake up and tidy up a bit in the morning.
I can’t believe that 3 weeks have went by so fast. I miss Nica and all that is going on down there. But it has been great to be here and see everyone, take care of personal business and share about the ministry. God keeps me moving!
I know that I say this often, but I’m very grateful for the life that God allows me to live. I can’t wait to see what comes next each day!
Sunday was a wonderful day of worship with Cuerpo Vivo church. There were baptisms, child dedications, church-wide intercessory prayer, a great message, awesome praise music and the always present Holy Spirit. I love being at Cuerpo Vivo church! After the service, I visited my friend Elizabeth and took her a sewing machine and supplies. She was thrilled. She fed me some tortillas hot off the griddle with cheese and some beans. What a treat! After her visit, I went next door to Nana Ruth’s house and visited with her. She had been feeling under the weather, but is doing better. It was great to have time to relax and chat.
I got a nice nap in and cleaned up the den at Deanna’s, where I have exploded with my work stuff and items for Nica. I have so many little things going on that I have piles everywhere. But it’s okay. It was a very nice day!
Monday was Labor Day and I enjoyed a nice morning walk. I ran into my friend Isidro and had a nice chat. Then I ran into my friend Kristi, who was on her bike. We had a nice chat, too. It was sunny and very hot. But it was good to be outside.
Later in the day, I worked on printing pictures to share with some fine ladies at FBCR on Tuesday. It’s so hard to decide what pictures to show. I want to use them all, but I know that it would drive everyone crazy!
I got some guitar practice in and am still seasoning my finger tips. But I’m determined to learn! Most of my practice and lessons will happen when I get back to Nica, where I will have a constant teacher and access to a guitar all of the time. I’m going to love it when I learn more!
On Tuesday morning, I ran the borrowed guitar back to Janalyn at FBCR so that she could use it to teach her music class. I got to see a few friends who were there for the beginning of the Ladies’ Tuesday Bible Studies. I love getting to see people!
I ran to the bank, Walmart and got some gas, before returning home to finish putting the stuff together for the Nica talk. The Naomi Class is made up of wonderful senior adult ladies who have faithfully prayed for me and supported since I first went into the mission field full time in 2007. I just love these ladies and hope to be like them when I grow up! We had a great time talking about what God is doing in Nica and how blessed I am to be used by Him. They are very much a part of my ministry opportunities since they help to send me out. I love them very much! The rest of the day was spent making a yummy fresh-veggie pizza for me and Deanna, doing laundry and packing for my trip to Indiana. It was another great day!
Wednesday started off busy with a trip to work with my friend JP, who is helping me build my website to keep everyone up to date on what God is doing in my life and how their prayers and support are making a difference for the Kingdom. Then I scurried over to have a lunch meeting with Rusty and Lynn Branson. Rusty is doing some printing work for me for the ministry.
Then I ran back to the house to get ready for my photo session for the Church Directory at FBCR. The photo stuff went very well and I was pleasantly surprised with the whole experience and the outcome. I don’t like pictures of myself, but they did miracles and the pics turned out pretty good!
My new glasses came in just in time for my trip tomorrow to Indiana. I ran over to the Vision Center and my friend Donna got me all fitted just perfect. She had picked out the frames for me and I really like them. She did a good job!
I got the chance to talk to Mary today by phone. We had a good chat and lots of laughs. We’re both missing Nica, but having fun seeing family and friends.
Deanna is getting new carpet tomorrow, so some of her family came to help move furniture. It was nice to see them.
I’m all packed for Indiana (and NYC). I’ve been catching up on some computer work and printing stuff before heading to bed. I hope I’m not forgetting anything!
It’s time for bed and I’m wide awake. I’m glad that my flight is not too early. I’ll still have time to wake up and tidy up a bit in the morning.
I can’t believe that 3 weeks have went by so fast. I miss Nica and all that is going on down there. But it has been great to be here and see everyone, take care of personal business and share about the ministry. God keeps me moving!
I know that I say this often, but I’m very grateful for the life that God allows me to live. I can’t wait to see what comes next each day!
Monday, September 3, 2012
August 27 - 31, 2012
Monday I ran some errands and found some great clearance deals at Hobby Lobby. In the parking lot, I ran into a new friend. It is so nice to see people! I was having lunch and ran into Janalyn, who I was planning on having lunch with on Tuesday. We were also both going to SoundArt music store. What a co-incidence! I went by the Frozen Cocoanut for a tasty snow shake. Genesis and Noemi came by Deanna’s to pick up some coupons and to visit with Jet. It was nice to have company.
On Tuesday, I met Janalyn at the Pleasant Grove church and she gave me some guitar pointers and loaned me her guitar for the week. Then we went for lunch at a steak restaurant. I can’t get enough steak!!
I met with Brian Sander about the Youth trip to Nica over Spring Break next March. It was nice to chat with him. I’m looking forward to the Youth coming down again. Glenda picked out some kids to sponsor from the VOH Feeding Centers. She was doing that in memory of one of the volunteers from the Medical Clinic. I went from the church to my eye doctor appointment. I had a nice chat about missions with my eye doctor. I just love talking about what God is doing in Nicaragua!
Wednesday started out on the computer and then I met Jerry Bolander for lunch. He is a friend from FBCR and is leading a team to Nica in January. It was great to chat with him. Then I went by a few stores looking for Nica stuff. I treated myself to a large lemonade from Chik-Fil-A. I just love those!!!
I met with Cathy Krupka about plans for the Women’s Team coming in October. Then we met with the women for a quick update meeting. Part of the ladies forgot about the meeting and some had changed their email addresses, so we had a come and go meeting. It was nice to see the ladies, though.
I spoke about Nica with the FBCR Youth on Wednesday night. I hope a lot of kids make the trip in March. It’s always a great growing experience for teams to come down.
Thursday morning I got my haircut and had a great visit with Carolyn. I went to the FBCR church and did some computer work. Kellie, Glenda and I went to a great Indian restaurant and had some curry and other wonderful dishes. I think I’ll have to visit that place again before I head south!
I picked out new glasses at the Walmart Vision Center. My friend Donna works there and always helps me find good ones. I don’t think I look good in any glasses so I have a hard time picking some out. My prescription only changed a little bit, but I wanted to go ahead and get a new pair so that I would also have a spare older pair in Nica for emergencies.
Friday I worked on the computer at home and rested a bit. It was kind of rainy and I was having some sinus issues. A nap was good. Then I went to dinner to my friend Zandra. We had Mexican food and then we went to walk through the Fresh Market, a new grocery store in the area. It reminds me a little of Whole Foods in NYC and I loved it. Then we sat in her vehicle at the Heritage High School parking lot until the ballgame was over and her daughter was ready to leave. It was a great time of visiting and relaxing. Zandra is my oldest friend in Arkansas. I met her on my first day of work in March of 1990 and the first thing she did was invite me to church. That’s a tru friend!
It’s been a great week of getting things done, visiting with people and eating good food. This is how a vacation should be! God has blessed me so much in these last weeks! I’m so thankful!
On Tuesday, I met Janalyn at the Pleasant Grove church and she gave me some guitar pointers and loaned me her guitar for the week. Then we went for lunch at a steak restaurant. I can’t get enough steak!!
I met with Brian Sander about the Youth trip to Nica over Spring Break next March. It was nice to chat with him. I’m looking forward to the Youth coming down again. Glenda picked out some kids to sponsor from the VOH Feeding Centers. She was doing that in memory of one of the volunteers from the Medical Clinic. I went from the church to my eye doctor appointment. I had a nice chat about missions with my eye doctor. I just love talking about what God is doing in Nicaragua!
Wednesday started out on the computer and then I met Jerry Bolander for lunch. He is a friend from FBCR and is leading a team to Nica in January. It was great to chat with him. Then I went by a few stores looking for Nica stuff. I treated myself to a large lemonade from Chik-Fil-A. I just love those!!!
I met with Cathy Krupka about plans for the Women’s Team coming in October. Then we met with the women for a quick update meeting. Part of the ladies forgot about the meeting and some had changed their email addresses, so we had a come and go meeting. It was nice to see the ladies, though.
I spoke about Nica with the FBCR Youth on Wednesday night. I hope a lot of kids make the trip in March. It’s always a great growing experience for teams to come down.
Thursday morning I got my haircut and had a great visit with Carolyn. I went to the FBCR church and did some computer work. Kellie, Glenda and I went to a great Indian restaurant and had some curry and other wonderful dishes. I think I’ll have to visit that place again before I head south!
I picked out new glasses at the Walmart Vision Center. My friend Donna works there and always helps me find good ones. I don’t think I look good in any glasses so I have a hard time picking some out. My prescription only changed a little bit, but I wanted to go ahead and get a new pair so that I would also have a spare older pair in Nica for emergencies.
Friday I worked on the computer at home and rested a bit. It was kind of rainy and I was having some sinus issues. A nap was good. Then I went to dinner to my friend Zandra. We had Mexican food and then we went to walk through the Fresh Market, a new grocery store in the area. It reminds me a little of Whole Foods in NYC and I loved it. Then we sat in her vehicle at the Heritage High School parking lot until the ballgame was over and her daughter was ready to leave. It was a great time of visiting and relaxing. Zandra is my oldest friend in Arkansas. I met her on my first day of work in March of 1990 and the first thing she did was invite me to church. That’s a tru friend!
It’s been a great week of getting things done, visiting with people and eating good food. This is how a vacation should be! God has blessed me so much in these last weeks! I’m so thankful!
August 20 - 26, 2012
Monday started off busy on the computer and phone. Lots of emails and communication to take care of. I was all set up in the den at Deanna’s house. I was talking with people in Nica, taking care of ministry stuff and people in NW Arkansas making appointments and finding out information. Quite the busy morning.
Deanna came home from her walk with Mary Ann and said that we were invited to Mary Ann’s house for lunch with our mutual friend, Phyllis. We had a very nice lunch in the gazebo in the back yard. I really enjoyed visiting with the ladies. The afternoon was spent back on the computer and phone. A nice day.
Tuesday I ran errands and met Shirley McGimpsey for lunch at Dixieland Café. We had a very nice long talk and it was grand! I love not being rushed (even though the waitresses changed shifts while we were there). Shirley is such a sweet friend and I love spending time with her. I also made some stops at Walmart, Lifeway Christian store and Deals, looking for stuff to take back to Nica. I stopped in at the Frozen Cocoanut, a new business owned by some missionary friends. I had a yummy ‘snow shake’. Just perfect for a hot afternoon!
On Wednesday, I finally got psyched up to visit my storage unit in Springdale. I had no idea what it looked like, since a friend put everything in there when I left for NYC in 2007. I was pleasantly surprised that it was not packed full. It was pretty organized, even if a few boxes were labeled ‘junk’ and ‘stuff’. I was so thankful to God for allowing the project not to be too bad. I also ran by Debbie’s Pharmacy to pick up my meds. While back at Deanna’s working in the den, my friend Vickie Brown (who very generously lent me her car for a while) visited to bring me a sewing machine that she wanted to donate to a good cause. I can always find a good cause! It was fun to get to sit and visit with her. She and Michael are such sweet friends. I can’t wait to get them to Nica sometime!
Thursday was another visit to the storage unit. I threw some things out and brought some boxes home to sort through. I also stopped in at Walmart in Springdale (I HAVE to hit all 4 in my area) and then I treated myself to lunch at AQ Chicken Restaurant. It’s famous for its fried chicken, but since I can’t have fried food, I had a delicious dish of blackened chicken over rice, mushrooms and onions. I had a side dish of sweet potato casserole, yum!!
Thursday afternoon brought more computer work at home and then I had dinner with Nana Ruth. We went to Applebee’s and had one of the 2 for $20 specials. It was soooo good. I’m enjoying eating steak here in the states, since it is easier to chew than in Nica (haha). We sat for a couple of hours and chatted. It was a very nice evening.
Friday I went to the FBCR Olive Street location and visited the workers in the Food Pantry. It was running so well. It has grown very much and the volunteers are great. I took a few pictures of the workers and spent time chatting away. Then I went over to the neighboring building and visited the workers at the Friday Community Meals. There were lots of volunteers and it was running like clockwork. They were serving turkey and dressing and I had a meal myself. It was grand! I got the chance to talk with some friends who were volunteering. What fun!
I ran to 2 Walmarts, the Post Office and SoundArt (a music stored owned by friends of mine). I found more great deals for items to take back to Nica. I also bought myself a few things to help me learn to play guitar when I get back. I have a guitar in my room at the team house and I have always wanted to learn to play the guitar. Now I am going from ‘wanting to’ learn to saying I’m ‘going to’ learn. I’m excited about it! It was great to see my friends, the Maxeys, at their store.
Saturday I ran more errands (so thankful for the loan of a car!!) and then spent the afternoon and evening pulling pics on the computer to use for Nicaragua presentations while in the states. I enjoyed hanging out with Deanna in the living room. She reads and I work on the computer and Jet lays at our feet while we are ‘watching’ TV. Very sweet!
Sunday I went to FBCR early for worship and then jumped in the car to head across town to the Cuerpo Vivo Church in the Olive Street building. It was fun to be in both services back to back. Bud it did make for a long morning! But how better to spend it than in Worshiping our Lord?
After church, I stopped in at Number 1 Buffet for lunch. It’s an out of the way restaurant that isn’t really frequented by the masses. I like to eat there because I can get things healthy for my diet on the buffet. It was late for lunch, but I was ready to eat! When I walked in I ran into my ex-husband Steve. It had been about 16 years since I had seen him. Our divorce had been very hurtful and I wanted the door to that part of my life closed. Especially since he wouldn’t allow me to have a relationship with my step-sons. I have been praying about not letting baggage from the past influence future relationships (friendships really) and I feel that God allowing me to run into Steve was part of that process. Steve and I had a nice chat and exchanged contact info for future conversations. I felt very peaceful about it all. (Nothing like the last time I laid eyes on him.) He told me that his oldest son, Josh is on facebook, and we started communicating that afternoon. I was thankful for the special afternoon that God allowed in my life. I got to end the day celebrating the Lord’s Supper at FBCR. A very blessed day indeed.
Deanna came home from her walk with Mary Ann and said that we were invited to Mary Ann’s house for lunch with our mutual friend, Phyllis. We had a very nice lunch in the gazebo in the back yard. I really enjoyed visiting with the ladies. The afternoon was spent back on the computer and phone. A nice day.
Tuesday I ran errands and met Shirley McGimpsey for lunch at Dixieland Café. We had a very nice long talk and it was grand! I love not being rushed (even though the waitresses changed shifts while we were there). Shirley is such a sweet friend and I love spending time with her. I also made some stops at Walmart, Lifeway Christian store and Deals, looking for stuff to take back to Nica. I stopped in at the Frozen Cocoanut, a new business owned by some missionary friends. I had a yummy ‘snow shake’. Just perfect for a hot afternoon!
On Wednesday, I finally got psyched up to visit my storage unit in Springdale. I had no idea what it looked like, since a friend put everything in there when I left for NYC in 2007. I was pleasantly surprised that it was not packed full. It was pretty organized, even if a few boxes were labeled ‘junk’ and ‘stuff’. I was so thankful to God for allowing the project not to be too bad. I also ran by Debbie’s Pharmacy to pick up my meds. While back at Deanna’s working in the den, my friend Vickie Brown (who very generously lent me her car for a while) visited to bring me a sewing machine that she wanted to donate to a good cause. I can always find a good cause! It was fun to get to sit and visit with her. She and Michael are such sweet friends. I can’t wait to get them to Nica sometime!
Thursday was another visit to the storage unit. I threw some things out and brought some boxes home to sort through. I also stopped in at Walmart in Springdale (I HAVE to hit all 4 in my area) and then I treated myself to lunch at AQ Chicken Restaurant. It’s famous for its fried chicken, but since I can’t have fried food, I had a delicious dish of blackened chicken over rice, mushrooms and onions. I had a side dish of sweet potato casserole, yum!!
Thursday afternoon brought more computer work at home and then I had dinner with Nana Ruth. We went to Applebee’s and had one of the 2 for $20 specials. It was soooo good. I’m enjoying eating steak here in the states, since it is easier to chew than in Nica (haha). We sat for a couple of hours and chatted. It was a very nice evening.
Friday I went to the FBCR Olive Street location and visited the workers in the Food Pantry. It was running so well. It has grown very much and the volunteers are great. I took a few pictures of the workers and spent time chatting away. Then I went over to the neighboring building and visited the workers at the Friday Community Meals. There were lots of volunteers and it was running like clockwork. They were serving turkey and dressing and I had a meal myself. It was grand! I got the chance to talk with some friends who were volunteering. What fun!
I ran to 2 Walmarts, the Post Office and SoundArt (a music stored owned by friends of mine). I found more great deals for items to take back to Nica. I also bought myself a few things to help me learn to play guitar when I get back. I have a guitar in my room at the team house and I have always wanted to learn to play the guitar. Now I am going from ‘wanting to’ learn to saying I’m ‘going to’ learn. I’m excited about it! It was great to see my friends, the Maxeys, at their store.
Saturday I ran more errands (so thankful for the loan of a car!!) and then spent the afternoon and evening pulling pics on the computer to use for Nicaragua presentations while in the states. I enjoyed hanging out with Deanna in the living room. She reads and I work on the computer and Jet lays at our feet while we are ‘watching’ TV. Very sweet!
Sunday I went to FBCR early for worship and then jumped in the car to head across town to the Cuerpo Vivo Church in the Olive Street building. It was fun to be in both services back to back. Bud it did make for a long morning! But how better to spend it than in Worshiping our Lord?
After church, I stopped in at Number 1 Buffet for lunch. It’s an out of the way restaurant that isn’t really frequented by the masses. I like to eat there because I can get things healthy for my diet on the buffet. It was late for lunch, but I was ready to eat! When I walked in I ran into my ex-husband Steve. It had been about 16 years since I had seen him. Our divorce had been very hurtful and I wanted the door to that part of my life closed. Especially since he wouldn’t allow me to have a relationship with my step-sons. I have been praying about not letting baggage from the past influence future relationships (friendships really) and I feel that God allowing me to run into Steve was part of that process. Steve and I had a nice chat and exchanged contact info for future conversations. I felt very peaceful about it all. (Nothing like the last time I laid eyes on him.) He told me that his oldest son, Josh is on facebook, and we started communicating that afternoon. I was thankful for the special afternoon that God allowed in my life. I got to end the day celebrating the Lord’s Supper at FBCR. A very blessed day indeed.
Sunday, September 2, 2012
August 14 - 19, 2012
The beginning of the errands marathon in the states…
My friend Nichole picked me up early on Tuesday for a trip to my doctor’s office. I needed my yearly labs and check-up so I could renew my prescriptions. I love getting to talk with Bob, my doctor and friend. He’s also coming to Nica on a medical trip in Jan and we chatted a little about that, too. Nichole and I enjoyed some breakfast at Lucy’s Diner. Then we stopped at Walmart for me to stock up on some stuff. It was a good morning!
Wednesday was a fun day of shopping with Kesha and her son Colin. We hit Walmart again, walked through the new Fresh Market grocery store and then had lunch at Olive Garden. It was very tasty! Then we stopped by their house for me to see the improvements they have made over the last few years. I had lived in their house while they were in Hungary as missionaries and before I moved to NYC. I have very fond memories of living there and I’m excited to see how great and welcoming the house looks with their touches back in place.
Thursday was my annual hearing test and checkup with Dr Black. My hearing loss is still the same and probably won’t change. There is nothing they can do about it. I will just have to learn to live with it. I’m getting better at adapting. It still makes learning a new language a challenge, but I can do all things through Christ!! Cathy took me to the doctor’s appointment and then we had lunch at MiMi’s Café and discussed the women’s mission trip in Oct. We used a gift certificate that she had won at our church’s Women’s Retreat. So we could have anything we wanted. We had appetizers, entrees and dessert! What a treat!
Thursday night was the annual appreciation dinner for the volunteers of River of Life Medical Center, which I had helped to start many years ago. I love getting to see everyone and I’m very proud of the work the clinic does to bless people every month. The dinner was held at Monte Ne Inn chicken restaurant. I can’t eat fried food, so passing the chicken around was torture, but I could eat the rest of the homemade food (bean soup, slaw, corn, green beans, mashed potatoes, gravy, bread). I even passed on the dessert, not so much because I was being responsible, but more because I was stuffed (and my doctor was there – Ha). It was a great night of seeing old friends and meeting new people.
Friday I was feeling kind of sick with either a cold thing or allergies. Vickie and Michael Brown offered me the use of their car and brought it to me in the afternoon. Since they are pharmacists, they made sure that I got some allergy meds that I can take with my other meds. It was great to start feeling better and to have wheels for the weekend!
Saturday morning I started running errands with my borrowed wheels. I went to AT&T to update my phone. I got a great deal on everything that I needed. The sales rep was very helpful and took very good care of me. We chatted a little about me being a missionary in Nica. He has just moved to NWA in the spring and hasn’t found a church yet, so I told him about FBCR. I treated myself to lunch at Marias restaurant and then a much needed pedicure. I felt guilty about the pedi, though. I made a few more stops and then headed home to rest and fight my allergy/cold thing with a nap.
Sunday I watched FBCR on tv while getting ready for service at Iglesia Cuerpo Vivo. I loved getting to see my friends at the Spanish church. I couldn’t believe how much the kids have grown in the 6 months that I’ve been gone. I had lunch at the home of my friend Elizabeth. She doesn’t speak English, so my Spanish gets a workout. She is such a sweetie. We had tamales and she sent some home with me. Yum!
It’s been a good first week visiting the states. I’ve not felt stressed. I’ve run into friends and really enjoyed myself. I’m also getting a lot done to prepare for my return trip to Nica. God is awesome!
My friend Nichole picked me up early on Tuesday for a trip to my doctor’s office. I needed my yearly labs and check-up so I could renew my prescriptions. I love getting to talk with Bob, my doctor and friend. He’s also coming to Nica on a medical trip in Jan and we chatted a little about that, too. Nichole and I enjoyed some breakfast at Lucy’s Diner. Then we stopped at Walmart for me to stock up on some stuff. It was a good morning!
Wednesday was a fun day of shopping with Kesha and her son Colin. We hit Walmart again, walked through the new Fresh Market grocery store and then had lunch at Olive Garden. It was very tasty! Then we stopped by their house for me to see the improvements they have made over the last few years. I had lived in their house while they were in Hungary as missionaries and before I moved to NYC. I have very fond memories of living there and I’m excited to see how great and welcoming the house looks with their touches back in place.
Thursday was my annual hearing test and checkup with Dr Black. My hearing loss is still the same and probably won’t change. There is nothing they can do about it. I will just have to learn to live with it. I’m getting better at adapting. It still makes learning a new language a challenge, but I can do all things through Christ!! Cathy took me to the doctor’s appointment and then we had lunch at MiMi’s Café and discussed the women’s mission trip in Oct. We used a gift certificate that she had won at our church’s Women’s Retreat. So we could have anything we wanted. We had appetizers, entrees and dessert! What a treat!
Thursday night was the annual appreciation dinner for the volunteers of River of Life Medical Center, which I had helped to start many years ago. I love getting to see everyone and I’m very proud of the work the clinic does to bless people every month. The dinner was held at Monte Ne Inn chicken restaurant. I can’t eat fried food, so passing the chicken around was torture, but I could eat the rest of the homemade food (bean soup, slaw, corn, green beans, mashed potatoes, gravy, bread). I even passed on the dessert, not so much because I was being responsible, but more because I was stuffed (and my doctor was there – Ha). It was a great night of seeing old friends and meeting new people.
Friday I was feeling kind of sick with either a cold thing or allergies. Vickie and Michael Brown offered me the use of their car and brought it to me in the afternoon. Since they are pharmacists, they made sure that I got some allergy meds that I can take with my other meds. It was great to start feeling better and to have wheels for the weekend!
Saturday morning I started running errands with my borrowed wheels. I went to AT&T to update my phone. I got a great deal on everything that I needed. The sales rep was very helpful and took very good care of me. We chatted a little about me being a missionary in Nica. He has just moved to NWA in the spring and hasn’t found a church yet, so I told him about FBCR. I treated myself to lunch at Marias restaurant and then a much needed pedicure. I felt guilty about the pedi, though. I made a few more stops and then headed home to rest and fight my allergy/cold thing with a nap.
Sunday I watched FBCR on tv while getting ready for service at Iglesia Cuerpo Vivo. I loved getting to see my friends at the Spanish church. I couldn’t believe how much the kids have grown in the 6 months that I’ve been gone. I had lunch at the home of my friend Elizabeth. She doesn’t speak English, so my Spanish gets a workout. She is such a sweetie. We had tamales and she sent some home with me. Yum!
It’s been a good first week visiting the states. I’ve not felt stressed. I’ve run into friends and really enjoyed myself. I’m also getting a lot done to prepare for my return trip to Nica. God is awesome!
Monday, August 13, 2012
Travel day to the States.
Mary and I got up early and German picked us up at the team house at 3am. We headed off to Managua airport. About half way there, German realized that we could have left later when we confirmed our flight time. Oh well, we were up and on the road!
Mary and I had a little breakfast of bagels at the airport. I also got a yummy smoothie. We had a little wait and I shopped a bit in a nice shop.
The flight to Atlanta was great. I sat by Francis, a lady who was part of a mission team from South Carolina. The missions pastor was sitting right in front of us. Through conversations with them, I found out that he had visited our team house for possible lodging options in the future. They were working with a missionary couple there in León. I hope to meet them sometime. It was a fun flight.
Since some of us had connecting flights that were close on time, Delta had an agent waiting where we came in to the terminal and gave all of us special cards to carry to go to the head of the line at customs and security. I really liked that service!!
It turns out that Delta had computer trouble and when I got to my gate area, I had just enough time to grab a sandwich to eat on the plane. But the flights were delayed and they were changing gates like crazy. It was like a chess game. The good news was that I had not missed my flight.
I had a blast visiting with some ladies who found each other by running into each other at each gate switch. It was a wait of a few hours, but we really enjoyed each other. I got to share about what I do in Nica with VOH. I always enjoy sharing about what God is doing!!
I made it to NW Arkansas about 6:30 or so and Cathy was waiting to pick me up. It was good to see her. She dropped me off at Deanna’s house and I was ready to rest up and enjoy my visit to the states.
I enjoyed the travel day (as much as a person CAN enjoy a travel day) and am thankful that God allows me a glimpse of His workings all around me.
Mary and I got up early and German picked us up at the team house at 3am. We headed off to Managua airport. About half way there, German realized that we could have left later when we confirmed our flight time. Oh well, we were up and on the road!
Mary and I had a little breakfast of bagels at the airport. I also got a yummy smoothie. We had a little wait and I shopped a bit in a nice shop.
The flight to Atlanta was great. I sat by Francis, a lady who was part of a mission team from South Carolina. The missions pastor was sitting right in front of us. Through conversations with them, I found out that he had visited our team house for possible lodging options in the future. They were working with a missionary couple there in León. I hope to meet them sometime. It was a fun flight.
Since some of us had connecting flights that were close on time, Delta had an agent waiting where we came in to the terminal and gave all of us special cards to carry to go to the head of the line at customs and security. I really liked that service!!
It turns out that Delta had computer trouble and when I got to my gate area, I had just enough time to grab a sandwich to eat on the plane. But the flights were delayed and they were changing gates like crazy. It was like a chess game. The good news was that I had not missed my flight.
I had a blast visiting with some ladies who found each other by running into each other at each gate switch. It was a wait of a few hours, but we really enjoyed each other. I got to share about what I do in Nica with VOH. I always enjoy sharing about what God is doing!!
I made it to NW Arkansas about 6:30 or so and Cathy was waiting to pick me up. It was good to see her. She dropped me off at Deanna’s house and I was ready to rest up and enjoy my visit to the states.
I enjoyed the travel day (as much as a person CAN enjoy a travel day) and am thankful that God allows me a glimpse of His workings all around me.
Aug 8 - Aug 12, 2012
The remainder of the week was busy with getting things done before leaving for the states. A lot of errands, purchases, plans, emails, etc.
Wednesday was the last Women’s Bible Study for 2 months. Mary went with me and Estefanie. The ladies decorated for us and had some music. It was very special. I’ll miss them very much. I left them with some scripture verses to memorize while I’m gone. It will be fun to see who memorizes them. I need to get busy memorizing them my self!
Mary and I ran around some to celebrate our last week. We had ice cream and shopped a little bit. On Saturday morning, we went to have breakfast at great little place where North Americans and Europeans eat a lot. I had waffles and Mary had an egg plate. It was very good. We had eaten there with Charlie one day and we will eat there many more times, I’m sure.
We held a training event for the leaders and main cooks of the Feeding Centers. We held it at La Quimera Church/Feeding Center. We took one of our vans and picked up people on our way to the site. It was fun to travel together. The training went great and they were very thankful for the goodie bags that we packed for them (food staples and other goodies). It was a very good day.
Mike, Sherry, Manuel, Mary and I went to Suyapa for dinner on Saturday evening. It was very good. We ate upstairs and had a great view of the ocean and beach. We love to eat there.
Sunday was spent finishing laundry and packing. It was a very relaxing day. I felt very comfortable thinking about ‘visiting’ the states. God is so good to me and I can’t wait to see what He has to show me each and every day.
Wednesday was the last Women’s Bible Study for 2 months. Mary went with me and Estefanie. The ladies decorated for us and had some music. It was very special. I’ll miss them very much. I left them with some scripture verses to memorize while I’m gone. It will be fun to see who memorizes them. I need to get busy memorizing them my self!
Mary and I ran around some to celebrate our last week. We had ice cream and shopped a little bit. On Saturday morning, we went to have breakfast at great little place where North Americans and Europeans eat a lot. I had waffles and Mary had an egg plate. It was very good. We had eaten there with Charlie one day and we will eat there many more times, I’m sure.
We held a training event for the leaders and main cooks of the Feeding Centers. We held it at La Quimera Church/Feeding Center. We took one of our vans and picked up people on our way to the site. It was fun to travel together. The training went great and they were very thankful for the goodie bags that we packed for them (food staples and other goodies). It was a very good day.
Mike, Sherry, Manuel, Mary and I went to Suyapa for dinner on Saturday evening. It was very good. We ate upstairs and had a great view of the ocean and beach. We love to eat there.
Sunday was spent finishing laundry and packing. It was a very relaxing day. I felt very comfortable thinking about ‘visiting’ the states. God is so good to me and I can’t wait to see what He has to show me each and every day.
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