It's been a good couple of days.
Yesterday (Sunday) I wandered the halls of church with Angel Tree information and visited some of the ABF classes reminding everyone to adopt an angel. Quite a few were adopted and it made me very happy. I had to cover the traffic in the halls before and after all three services, so I missed out on Cuerpo Vivo's service. I did get home early (just after 1pm instead of close to 3pm) since I didn't stay for Cuerpo Vivo, but I missed being in that service, though. I told people that I was the 'walking Angel Tree'. Pat & Raleigh surprised me today with a headband that has a Christmas Tree on top that lights up. I think maybe I should wear it next Sunday when we collect the gifts for Angel Tree. :)
I am truly thankful for the people who are sacrificing money and time to give something to the Angels, who wouldn't be receiving any Christmas otherwise. It's interesting to see who participates in ministries like this. You can see the love of God in their eyes and countenance. I like to be around people like that. It makes my heart happy. There is a bond between people who put others first. That's my kind of people!
I spent a lot of hours this weekend working here at home on the Angel Tree info and Christmas Food Box info. I'm very blessed to be able to work from here. It's hard to get some types of work done when I'm at the church during the week, so I spend most of that time doing the physical stuff and running errands, etc. I do a lot of computer work at night and on weekends here in my little den. It's a good balance.
This morning I started bright and early with a 6:30am phone call about Angel Tree. Then I stopped by Walgreen's around 8am to pick up a few items that they had on sale with coupons. While there, I spied some fleece throws for a wonderful price. I loaded up for the Angel Tree. I was so excited about the bargains that I forgot to get a bottle of juice for my Spanish class!
Spanish class was very good today. We learned a lot, asked a lot of questions and even made Oliver excited with the way the class was going today. Oliver read John chapter 3 and also Luke 2 in Spanish. There was a lot of discussion about the names of Jesus. It was a very nice morning.
I stopped in the Food Pantry when I got to the church. They had 4 salvations today. Jim was all smiles. We need lots of food for the pantry, since we are seeing so many people come for assistance. I hope more people will volunteer for the new year, too. Those who have come to work it have really enjoyed it. Jim and Shirley do a good job of directing it. It's a good feeling to be part of God's plan in touching lives.
I got to have a nice lunch with Janalynn today. It was good to have a sit-down meal and have time to just chat. A little more work on the Christmas projects in the afternoon and then I stopped by Walgreen's on the way home to pick up some more bargains for the Angels.
Deanna had really yummy homemade vegetable soup ready for dinner. It was good on this chilly night. Jet went outside while I carried stuff in from the car. He seemed to think that was a good alternative to a walk, since it was so cold.
I downloaded some more Christmas songs on my iPod and did some laundry. I'm heading to bed early tonight. There's only a few more weeks until Christmas and I want to enjoy every moment of the season. I need to find the right time to start making fudge. I'm going to make 8 different kinds. It will be everywhere! I hope people will like getting it for gifts. Of course, I have to keep it out of Deanna's grasp. She told me she is a fudge-aholic and that I should lock it up. I'll have to pray over it!
I'm enjoying the life that God is allowing me right now. I'm anxious to see what He has planned for me in the coming year. He's so full of wonderful surprises!
Monday, December 7, 2009
Saturday, December 5, 2009
Saturday, December 5, 2009
It's Saturday night. Cold weather, sunny today, just right for the Christmas season.
On Thursday, I got a chance to get a little work done from home and also go through a couple of boxes that I had shipped here from my apartment in nyc. I pulled out the stuff that I could pass on to some friends setting up an apartment here. It wasn't much, but it will help get them started. Then I got a call from a school social worker for some coats, so I ran them by the school on my way to run some other errands. So much for spending the day on the computer at home... but it was nice to be out in the cold sunny day.
Friday was a long day processing the Angel Tree info from the schools. I got to visit a little bit with the McGimpseys at the Food Pantry. It's nice to see new volunteers helping out there. I was soooo tired when I finished at the church about 5:30, but I wanted to run by the AT&T store to have a friend help me get my new phone set up, so I ran out to the Promenade before I went home. I did get to hear a little of the FBC choir singing at the mall. I would have hung around for a few more songs, but I was really wanting to get home and relax. (besides, Deanna had cornbread in the oven for dinner - yum!)
Today I ran around to finish my Christmas shopping. I had to get Jet and LucyAlice their gifts. Jet got a new coat so we can walk in the cold. At first he kind of liked it, but then we ran into some of his dog friends on the street and they barked. I'm assuming they were making fun of his coat, because after that he seemed to want to rub on the ground to get it off. He actually whimpered after they barked at him. Poor Jet. He even sat down on the sidewalk and quit walking. I got him home and took off his coat and he went under the bed. Poor guy was humiliated. But - he'll get over it the next time I get the coat out with his leash. He'll put up with anything as long as he gets to go on a walk! He'll thank me for the warmth of the coat when the weather gets colder, too. By the way, LucyAlice's gift was 3 little stuffed mice that she immediately started playing with.
I hope to get most of the remainder of Christmas Angels adopted tomorrow and early next week. Almost half are adopted so far. Some people have contacted me through email, phone calls and even facebook. Since we can't have a physical Angel Tree along side the pretty decorations at the church, using technology and communication is a good alternative. I'll be in the halls between services tomorrow with Angel information, so that will be fun, too.
I feel so blessed that God has allowed me to live with little material things these last 2 1/2 years. Three years ago, I was planning to sell everything and move to nyc. As I put out my Christmas decorations that year, I really appreciated all the sentimental ones and enjoyed looking at them all. When it was time to take it all down, I saved one box of really sentimental ones for storage and all the others were either given to people or sold in my moving sale. It was okay to say goodbye to the 'stuff'. When in nyc, I had a small nativity set (a gift from the Janes family) with pieces about 1" tall. I put it on top of my tv. I also had 2 stockings I bought at Macy's (I couldn't decide which one I liked best) which I hung on the wall. That's all the room I had for Christmas decorating, except for hanging up all of my Christmas cards on the wall. It looked festive. Of course, in nyc, most people don't have the room or money to decorate their places too much. That's why the trees at Rockefeller Center, Bryant Park, and Lincoln Center as well as the windows at Macy's and Bloomingdale's are all so popular. I also loved walking through the Christmas shops at Central Park and Bryant Park. It was different to celebrate Christmas there as you share it all with the rest of the city. I look forward to celebrating in other places and making new memories in the future.
Today I joined Deanna and 2 of her grandkids in attending the Christmas program at FBC. I loved the children's choir, youth ensemble, women's group, men's group and the 'big band' style song that Corey sang. The ballet dancing was nice and it reminded me of some of my friends in nyc who are dancers. There was a lot going on in that program.
I'll be spending the next few days trying to learn how to use my new phone. I'm thankful to have it and to transfer to a cheaper carrier and plan. It just takes me a while to learn new things. I'm getting too old I guess. ha I'm sure I'll love it when I learn it. I do appreciate it.
I got a message from a friend in Monterrey Mexico this week. How fun to remember times of serving on mission trips there. I'm thankful for friends and memories.
Time for bed for today. I'm so thankful to God for allowing me the life He has given me. Much of it has been unexpected, and for sure there has been many chances for growing. I'm thankful for the circumstances that lead me to depend on Him more and learn more of His unfailing love. And I am honored and humbled to be allowed to celebrate Him, especially at this time of year.
On Thursday, I got a chance to get a little work done from home and also go through a couple of boxes that I had shipped here from my apartment in nyc. I pulled out the stuff that I could pass on to some friends setting up an apartment here. It wasn't much, but it will help get them started. Then I got a call from a school social worker for some coats, so I ran them by the school on my way to run some other errands. So much for spending the day on the computer at home... but it was nice to be out in the cold sunny day.
Friday was a long day processing the Angel Tree info from the schools. I got to visit a little bit with the McGimpseys at the Food Pantry. It's nice to see new volunteers helping out there. I was soooo tired when I finished at the church about 5:30, but I wanted to run by the AT&T store to have a friend help me get my new phone set up, so I ran out to the Promenade before I went home. I did get to hear a little of the FBC choir singing at the mall. I would have hung around for a few more songs, but I was really wanting to get home and relax. (besides, Deanna had cornbread in the oven for dinner - yum!)
Today I ran around to finish my Christmas shopping. I had to get Jet and LucyAlice their gifts. Jet got a new coat so we can walk in the cold. At first he kind of liked it, but then we ran into some of his dog friends on the street and they barked. I'm assuming they were making fun of his coat, because after that he seemed to want to rub on the ground to get it off. He actually whimpered after they barked at him. Poor Jet. He even sat down on the sidewalk and quit walking. I got him home and took off his coat and he went under the bed. Poor guy was humiliated. But - he'll get over it the next time I get the coat out with his leash. He'll put up with anything as long as he gets to go on a walk! He'll thank me for the warmth of the coat when the weather gets colder, too. By the way, LucyAlice's gift was 3 little stuffed mice that she immediately started playing with.
I hope to get most of the remainder of Christmas Angels adopted tomorrow and early next week. Almost half are adopted so far. Some people have contacted me through email, phone calls and even facebook. Since we can't have a physical Angel Tree along side the pretty decorations at the church, using technology and communication is a good alternative. I'll be in the halls between services tomorrow with Angel information, so that will be fun, too.
I feel so blessed that God has allowed me to live with little material things these last 2 1/2 years. Three years ago, I was planning to sell everything and move to nyc. As I put out my Christmas decorations that year, I really appreciated all the sentimental ones and enjoyed looking at them all. When it was time to take it all down, I saved one box of really sentimental ones for storage and all the others were either given to people or sold in my moving sale. It was okay to say goodbye to the 'stuff'. When in nyc, I had a small nativity set (a gift from the Janes family) with pieces about 1" tall. I put it on top of my tv. I also had 2 stockings I bought at Macy's (I couldn't decide which one I liked best) which I hung on the wall. That's all the room I had for Christmas decorating, except for hanging up all of my Christmas cards on the wall. It looked festive. Of course, in nyc, most people don't have the room or money to decorate their places too much. That's why the trees at Rockefeller Center, Bryant Park, and Lincoln Center as well as the windows at Macy's and Bloomingdale's are all so popular. I also loved walking through the Christmas shops at Central Park and Bryant Park. It was different to celebrate Christmas there as you share it all with the rest of the city. I look forward to celebrating in other places and making new memories in the future.
Today I joined Deanna and 2 of her grandkids in attending the Christmas program at FBC. I loved the children's choir, youth ensemble, women's group, men's group and the 'big band' style song that Corey sang. The ballet dancing was nice and it reminded me of some of my friends in nyc who are dancers. There was a lot going on in that program.
I'll be spending the next few days trying to learn how to use my new phone. I'm thankful to have it and to transfer to a cheaper carrier and plan. It just takes me a while to learn new things. I'm getting too old I guess. ha I'm sure I'll love it when I learn it. I do appreciate it.
I got a message from a friend in Monterrey Mexico this week. How fun to remember times of serving on mission trips there. I'm thankful for friends and memories.
Time for bed for today. I'm so thankful to God for allowing me the life He has given me. Much of it has been unexpected, and for sure there has been many chances for growing. I'm thankful for the circumstances that lead me to depend on Him more and learn more of His unfailing love. And I am honored and humbled to be allowed to celebrate Him, especially at this time of year.
Wednesday, December 2, 2009
Wednesday, December 2, 2009
Wednesday night. A cold night and I'm excited to feel the appropriate weather for the holidays!!
I even broke out the flannel pj pants!
This has been a very productive week so far. The Christmas Angel Tree project is coming along well. I know that God people chosen to bless these kids. I pray for the right people to be open to His leading and be a part of the blessing. It is always so awesome to see the recipients get loved on with the gifts and to see the sponsors filled with the joy of giving. The same goes for the Food Boxes project. Love this time of year!
Jet has been sad that we couldn't walk the last 2 days. It was too dark when I got home on Monday and Tuesday and then today it's kind of rainy. He gives me these sad-eye looks that can make me feel guilty. Lucy Alice (the cat) decided to bless me with a quick stop on my lap and then she laid in Deanna's lap for a long session of scratching behind the ears. She looked like she was thoroughly enjoying it.
Thinking about how the animals feel and act tonight makes me think about how I am with God sometimes. I look to Him with sad, pleading eyes when I want something (like Jet's walk) but don't understand why I can't have it right now (rainy weather). I'll have to remember that I sometime have 'Jet eyes' when I look to the Lord. And when I'm having a wonderful moment of basking in God's peace and love, I'll think of Lucy Alice lounging all stretched out and just soaking up the love and attention.
Speaking of being pampered, Jet got fed twice tonight. I didn't know that Deanna had fed him and I filled his bowl again. He looked at me kind of funny and that made me ask Deanna if she had fed him already. At least he is honest! I put his bowl up on the cabinet until tomorrow. The funny thing is that we have been putting him on a little bit of a diet and here I was giving him an extra meal today!
This week I got a message from Father Baker of St Malachy's Church in NYC. Each December, a group of different churches in the Mid-town area gets together to do a Living Nativity, with caroling and hot chocolate. The411nyc and then Parable provided the hot chocolate each year. We had volunteers from mission teams serve. It was fun and very, very cold! Father Baker was asking if we would be able to provide the hot chocolate again this year. I was able to forward his message on to the pastor of the church that is meeting in our old building. I hope it works out for them to take over that serving opportunity. I know the new church was always looking for ways to reach out to the community. I sure will miss being there for that special night. Last year, a wonderful couple, Judy and Tom from NC, came up a few days before the rest of their team and helped me serve at the Nativity. It was soooooo cold! My goodness, I think I can still feel that chill! But it was a wonderful night and I will always remember it and have a warm spot in my heart for Tom and Judy.
FBC Rogers is performing a wonderful Christmas program this weekend. I can't wait to see and hear it. It will be quite the production!
Well, it's time to go to bed and dream of Christmas-y things. I love this time of year. It's fun to celebrate Jesus a little each day.
Blessings!!
I even broke out the flannel pj pants!
This has been a very productive week so far. The Christmas Angel Tree project is coming along well. I know that God people chosen to bless these kids. I pray for the right people to be open to His leading and be a part of the blessing. It is always so awesome to see the recipients get loved on with the gifts and to see the sponsors filled with the joy of giving. The same goes for the Food Boxes project. Love this time of year!
Jet has been sad that we couldn't walk the last 2 days. It was too dark when I got home on Monday and Tuesday and then today it's kind of rainy. He gives me these sad-eye looks that can make me feel guilty. Lucy Alice (the cat) decided to bless me with a quick stop on my lap and then she laid in Deanna's lap for a long session of scratching behind the ears. She looked like she was thoroughly enjoying it.
Thinking about how the animals feel and act tonight makes me think about how I am with God sometimes. I look to Him with sad, pleading eyes when I want something (like Jet's walk) but don't understand why I can't have it right now (rainy weather). I'll have to remember that I sometime have 'Jet eyes' when I look to the Lord. And when I'm having a wonderful moment of basking in God's peace and love, I'll think of Lucy Alice lounging all stretched out and just soaking up the love and attention.
Speaking of being pampered, Jet got fed twice tonight. I didn't know that Deanna had fed him and I filled his bowl again. He looked at me kind of funny and that made me ask Deanna if she had fed him already. At least he is honest! I put his bowl up on the cabinet until tomorrow. The funny thing is that we have been putting him on a little bit of a diet and here I was giving him an extra meal today!
This week I got a message from Father Baker of St Malachy's Church in NYC. Each December, a group of different churches in the Mid-town area gets together to do a Living Nativity, with caroling and hot chocolate. The411nyc and then Parable provided the hot chocolate each year. We had volunteers from mission teams serve. It was fun and very, very cold! Father Baker was asking if we would be able to provide the hot chocolate again this year. I was able to forward his message on to the pastor of the church that is meeting in our old building. I hope it works out for them to take over that serving opportunity. I know the new church was always looking for ways to reach out to the community. I sure will miss being there for that special night. Last year, a wonderful couple, Judy and Tom from NC, came up a few days before the rest of their team and helped me serve at the Nativity. It was soooooo cold! My goodness, I think I can still feel that chill! But it was a wonderful night and I will always remember it and have a warm spot in my heart for Tom and Judy.
FBC Rogers is performing a wonderful Christmas program this weekend. I can't wait to see and hear it. It will be quite the production!
Well, it's time to go to bed and dream of Christmas-y things. I love this time of year. It's fun to celebrate Jesus a little each day.
Blessings!!
Saturday, November 28, 2009
Saturday, November 28, 2009
What a great and crazy week.
I enjoyed both services at church last Sunday (FBCR and Cuerpo Vivo). It is interesting that sometimes there will be the same song in each service (just different languages) and this Sunday there was a scripture used by both pastors. It reminds me of how connected my life is to both churches.
I spent most of each day at the church on Monday-Wednesday, helping with the Spanish calls for meal reservations and getting the final details put together for Thanksgiving. It was really pleasant this year. (It has made such a difference that I'm not glued to the front desk and phone like the years before. This gives me so much more time and flexibility to get the things done for the mission projects, without having to do the running around after hours. Thank you Lord for controlling my time.)
Anyway, we ended up serving 2500 meals this year. It is so fun to be there with everyone working really hard and having a good time. I think we have probably hit our limit on how many meals we can handle in the space and time constraints of the kitchen and fellowship hall. What little we had left went to World Garden restaurant to help with the 3 meals they were providing that day. We were done by noon and I was home before 1pm. I rested for awhile and reflected on how nice it was to be back at FBCR for Thanksgiving this year.
I got to spend Thanksgiving dinner with Deanna's family. We ate about 6pm, so that gave me time to rest up and to fix the sweet potatoes. I had made some yummy fresh cranberry relish/salad the day before. Karyn and her family, Bryon, Mary Ann Bennett, Deanna and I chowed down on some great food. We had lots of fun and laughs. I really felt at home with them. We missed Jake and Elaine and the kids, but we called them up on Skype on my laptop and everyone had a blast talking with them. Deanna even got all excited when talking to Elaine's dog. Everyone left by 8pm-ish, but it felt like midnight to us. We were tired and relaxed and happy.
I usually don't hit the Black Friday sales, but Walmart was having some really great deals that would be perfect for the Angel Tree kids at church. There was also an HP 3-in-1 printer/scanner/copier for just $29, so I HAD to go and get that for me! I woke up at 5:30am and was at Walmart by 6. A lot of the crazy people had already picked up the best bargains (which started at 5am) and some were still slinging stuff around. I veered my cart away from those spots. I did find a printer, which made the whole trip worth while. I found a few items that Deanna was wanting and then I got in line to check out. After 20 minutes of standing perfectly still, I decided that I could walk around and find more bargains while all those crazy early people finished checking out. I ended up finding more of the items that Deanna was wanting and I could finally get close to some items that the 'slinging people' were hogging earlier. Then I got back in a different line, which was moving slowly, but moving, and had some nice conversations with other shoppers. I even talked to my sister in Indiana on the phone for a while. (although I don't think she appreciated me waking her up)
After Walmart, I went ahead and ran to Target to get something they were out of at Walmart. The best thing is that I got myself a Christmas present from me! I have wanted an iPod forever and I got a nice iPod Nano at Target. I'm so happy! (Deanna has been laughing at me cuz I'm so excited to have it). Then I went by Lifeway Christian Bookstore to get a few special items there. A quick stop for milk and hummus and I was back home for a nap!! What a good day!!!
I had to return the hot boxes that we had borrowed from Pfeffer's catering for Thanksgiving meals. I was trying to coordinate having someone help me unload them, since they are way too heavy for me to be lifting. I didn't want to bother anyone on their family time. I was so excited that someone was at the place where they needed to go. He said he would unload them. So I ran over there in the church van (I had one of the guys load the boxes in it right after the meals on Thursday) and delivered the boxes. When I got back to the church parking lot I realized that I couldn't pull the gate at the bus lot because it is too heavy for me right now. I thought I would just park and lock the van by the gate and then go over to Nana Ruth's and have her call Benny to come and lock up the van. Just as I was walking away from the locked van Benny actually pulled into the parking lot! Perfect timing God!! Benny took care of putting the van away. I had to smile at God's provision at just the right time. But mostly I smiled that the fact that Benny (who I tease mercilessly sometimes) was the answer to my prayer! heehee
I had a nice visit with Nana Ruth, who I never seem to have enough time to talk with. I definitely want to spend time visiting with people and not be too busy this holiday season.
Today, Deanna and I went to Lifeway and then to Hobby Lobby (where I ran into and got hugs from Becca and Elizabeth Janes). I took a nap after lunch and then Jet and I went on a really nice walk. (Jet was exhausted yesterday after his dog cousins came for Thanksgiving dinner and he actually laid down on the sidewalk when we took a little walk!) He did really good today and we both got some good exercise and enjoyed the beautiful afternoon weather.
I ran to GNC and then to Walmart this evening. I picked up the ingredients to make 8 batches of fudge and also for a dish I need to bring to our Staff Christmas dinner in a couple of weeks. Now I don't have to worry about fighting people to buy those ingredients. I can just fix the stuff when I feel like it.
God is providing wonderful time management for me this year. I'm so thankful to Him for allowing me to do the holiday things that I have missed the last few years. The last 2 Decembers were extremely busy for me in nyc. Last year there were 5 church mission teams up to work, and the year before, there were 7. I spent most of December each year out on the streets working with the teams, doing free gift wrapping at Herald Square, serving hot chocolate at the Living Nativity on 48th Street, working in the soup kitchens and senior centers, visiting Fire Stations, etc. I will miss those times this year (and some of the special people like Judy and Tom and the North Carolina team and the Central Baptist ladies), but I will get to bake and make fudge and decorate and really enjoy the season here in a different way.
I'm excited about the Angel Tree and the Christmas Food Boxes at church this year. It's coming together nicely and people are stepping up to help make it work. I took what I had budgeted for my personal donation for Angel Tree and spread it out over many Black Friday deals and can give a little to a lot of different Angels. I'm excited to see it all come together.
This has been a wonderful holiday weekend. I have rested, eaten, visited, shopped, played, prayed and praised my heart out. I am feeling so much better physically - I haven't felt this good in over a year! I'm giddy about it! I'm really enjoying God's blessings in my life right now. I pray that everyone is getting the chance to slow down and enjoy every minute of this time of honoring God and His Son. What a beautiful gift to us!!!
I enjoyed both services at church last Sunday (FBCR and Cuerpo Vivo). It is interesting that sometimes there will be the same song in each service (just different languages) and this Sunday there was a scripture used by both pastors. It reminds me of how connected my life is to both churches.
I spent most of each day at the church on Monday-Wednesday, helping with the Spanish calls for meal reservations and getting the final details put together for Thanksgiving. It was really pleasant this year. (It has made such a difference that I'm not glued to the front desk and phone like the years before. This gives me so much more time and flexibility to get the things done for the mission projects, without having to do the running around after hours. Thank you Lord for controlling my time.)
Anyway, we ended up serving 2500 meals this year. It is so fun to be there with everyone working really hard and having a good time. I think we have probably hit our limit on how many meals we can handle in the space and time constraints of the kitchen and fellowship hall. What little we had left went to World Garden restaurant to help with the 3 meals they were providing that day. We were done by noon and I was home before 1pm. I rested for awhile and reflected on how nice it was to be back at FBCR for Thanksgiving this year.
I got to spend Thanksgiving dinner with Deanna's family. We ate about 6pm, so that gave me time to rest up and to fix the sweet potatoes. I had made some yummy fresh cranberry relish/salad the day before. Karyn and her family, Bryon, Mary Ann Bennett, Deanna and I chowed down on some great food. We had lots of fun and laughs. I really felt at home with them. We missed Jake and Elaine and the kids, but we called them up on Skype on my laptop and everyone had a blast talking with them. Deanna even got all excited when talking to Elaine's dog. Everyone left by 8pm-ish, but it felt like midnight to us. We were tired and relaxed and happy.
I usually don't hit the Black Friday sales, but Walmart was having some really great deals that would be perfect for the Angel Tree kids at church. There was also an HP 3-in-1 printer/scanner/copier for just $29, so I HAD to go and get that for me! I woke up at 5:30am and was at Walmart by 6. A lot of the crazy people had already picked up the best bargains (which started at 5am) and some were still slinging stuff around. I veered my cart away from those spots. I did find a printer, which made the whole trip worth while. I found a few items that Deanna was wanting and then I got in line to check out. After 20 minutes of standing perfectly still, I decided that I could walk around and find more bargains while all those crazy early people finished checking out. I ended up finding more of the items that Deanna was wanting and I could finally get close to some items that the 'slinging people' were hogging earlier. Then I got back in a different line, which was moving slowly, but moving, and had some nice conversations with other shoppers. I even talked to my sister in Indiana on the phone for a while. (although I don't think she appreciated me waking her up)
After Walmart, I went ahead and ran to Target to get something they were out of at Walmart. The best thing is that I got myself a Christmas present from me! I have wanted an iPod forever and I got a nice iPod Nano at Target. I'm so happy! (Deanna has been laughing at me cuz I'm so excited to have it). Then I went by Lifeway Christian Bookstore to get a few special items there. A quick stop for milk and hummus and I was back home for a nap!! What a good day!!!
I had to return the hot boxes that we had borrowed from Pfeffer's catering for Thanksgiving meals. I was trying to coordinate having someone help me unload them, since they are way too heavy for me to be lifting. I didn't want to bother anyone on their family time. I was so excited that someone was at the place where they needed to go. He said he would unload them. So I ran over there in the church van (I had one of the guys load the boxes in it right after the meals on Thursday) and delivered the boxes. When I got back to the church parking lot I realized that I couldn't pull the gate at the bus lot because it is too heavy for me right now. I thought I would just park and lock the van by the gate and then go over to Nana Ruth's and have her call Benny to come and lock up the van. Just as I was walking away from the locked van Benny actually pulled into the parking lot! Perfect timing God!! Benny took care of putting the van away. I had to smile at God's provision at just the right time. But mostly I smiled that the fact that Benny (who I tease mercilessly sometimes) was the answer to my prayer! heehee
I had a nice visit with Nana Ruth, who I never seem to have enough time to talk with. I definitely want to spend time visiting with people and not be too busy this holiday season.
Today, Deanna and I went to Lifeway and then to Hobby Lobby (where I ran into and got hugs from Becca and Elizabeth Janes). I took a nap after lunch and then Jet and I went on a really nice walk. (Jet was exhausted yesterday after his dog cousins came for Thanksgiving dinner and he actually laid down on the sidewalk when we took a little walk!) He did really good today and we both got some good exercise and enjoyed the beautiful afternoon weather.
I ran to GNC and then to Walmart this evening. I picked up the ingredients to make 8 batches of fudge and also for a dish I need to bring to our Staff Christmas dinner in a couple of weeks. Now I don't have to worry about fighting people to buy those ingredients. I can just fix the stuff when I feel like it.
God is providing wonderful time management for me this year. I'm so thankful to Him for allowing me to do the holiday things that I have missed the last few years. The last 2 Decembers were extremely busy for me in nyc. Last year there were 5 church mission teams up to work, and the year before, there were 7. I spent most of December each year out on the streets working with the teams, doing free gift wrapping at Herald Square, serving hot chocolate at the Living Nativity on 48th Street, working in the soup kitchens and senior centers, visiting Fire Stations, etc. I will miss those times this year (and some of the special people like Judy and Tom and the North Carolina team and the Central Baptist ladies), but I will get to bake and make fudge and decorate and really enjoy the season here in a different way.
I'm excited about the Angel Tree and the Christmas Food Boxes at church this year. It's coming together nicely and people are stepping up to help make it work. I took what I had budgeted for my personal donation for Angel Tree and spread it out over many Black Friday deals and can give a little to a lot of different Angels. I'm excited to see it all come together.
This has been a wonderful holiday weekend. I have rested, eaten, visited, shopped, played, prayed and praised my heart out. I am feeling so much better physically - I haven't felt this good in over a year! I'm giddy about it! I'm really enjoying God's blessings in my life right now. I pray that everyone is getting the chance to slow down and enjoy every minute of this time of honoring God and His Son. What a beautiful gift to us!!!
Saturday, November 21, 2009
Saturday, November 21, 2009
What a great week! It has flown by, but it has been full of good things. God has been so gracious. He takes such good care of me and all His children.
I started spending more time at the church on Wednesday and it really wore me out. I forgot how quickly your energy can go away after surgery. But everyday it gets better. Unfortunately, I didn't think I could have enough energy to make it through these days before Thanksgiving and still take care of Gus, the puppy. So, I had to beg off of that opportunity and let Cathy go to the plan B that she had in place. I'll miss sitting with Gus and I hope to get the chance again sometime soon. I just love spoiling people's pets! heehee
I'm spending all day at the church everyday for a while so that I can help with the phone calls for the Thanksgiving meals. I'll do this through Wednesday. The only draw back is that I don't get nearly as much done on the computer as when I work from home. And I'm up to my eyeballs with coat drive, Christmas Angel Tree and Christmas Food Baskets right now, along with the Thanksgiving plans. It will all come together, but I'm dreaming about turkeys wearing santa hats!
I can't wait for Thanksgiving day. It's always so fun to see everyone working together that morning and see hundreds of people getting those meals to recipients. To anyone who hasn't been a part of it, you are very much welcome to participate!
I usually stress over everything going as close to perfect as possible, but I really feel a peace about it all this year. The more that God allows me to serve in different ways and in various places, the more mellow I get about letting Him be in charge and show Himself in the 'small stuff'.
God has allowed me to be a part of blessing some special people this week. I love how He puts the pieces together in His way. All we have to do is be aware of Him and be open to obeying what He directs. The less we worry about our own selves and our 'stuff' the more we can see the needs of others. 17 families came to the Food Pantry yesterday. It was great to have more volunteers, too. It just about wiped out the food we had on hand. It feels good to know so many were helped just a little bit this week. The McGimpseys do a great job with running the Food Pantry and they'll have more food bought and stocked for next week. The congregation has been faithful in bringing food in. I wish they could all see how the blessings are flowing out from their donations. It's a great ministry and much needed.
Today I went to Lifeway Christian store for some really good bargains on Christmas presents. I have such a limited budget, but I want to give gifts to family, too. I'm so thankful for the really good deals I found today.
Then I went to Walmart and spent another hour and a half picking up some groceries and just looking around the store. I am a fan of the clearance aisles and I found some good gifts there, too. One of the nice treats I got at Walmart today was cozy slipper socks for me and Deanna. We'll have happy toes now!! I was excited to find sweet potatoes on sale for .25 per pound. (it doesn't take much to thrill me) I bought 10 pounds! :) Deanna and I both love them fixed just about anyway you can imagine, so we'll enjoy this bargain for a few weeks!
Deanna and I have been thinking of all of the ways that we will use the left over turkey. We have some tasty recipes in mind. We're even planning some turkey and spinach alfredo. yum!
Speaking of food, the roasted potatoes and squash that we are having for dinner is ready. Gotta go! (God is soooo good!)
I started spending more time at the church on Wednesday and it really wore me out. I forgot how quickly your energy can go away after surgery. But everyday it gets better. Unfortunately, I didn't think I could have enough energy to make it through these days before Thanksgiving and still take care of Gus, the puppy. So, I had to beg off of that opportunity and let Cathy go to the plan B that she had in place. I'll miss sitting with Gus and I hope to get the chance again sometime soon. I just love spoiling people's pets! heehee
I'm spending all day at the church everyday for a while so that I can help with the phone calls for the Thanksgiving meals. I'll do this through Wednesday. The only draw back is that I don't get nearly as much done on the computer as when I work from home. And I'm up to my eyeballs with coat drive, Christmas Angel Tree and Christmas Food Baskets right now, along with the Thanksgiving plans. It will all come together, but I'm dreaming about turkeys wearing santa hats!
I can't wait for Thanksgiving day. It's always so fun to see everyone working together that morning and see hundreds of people getting those meals to recipients. To anyone who hasn't been a part of it, you are very much welcome to participate!
I usually stress over everything going as close to perfect as possible, but I really feel a peace about it all this year. The more that God allows me to serve in different ways and in various places, the more mellow I get about letting Him be in charge and show Himself in the 'small stuff'.
God has allowed me to be a part of blessing some special people this week. I love how He puts the pieces together in His way. All we have to do is be aware of Him and be open to obeying what He directs. The less we worry about our own selves and our 'stuff' the more we can see the needs of others. 17 families came to the Food Pantry yesterday. It was great to have more volunteers, too. It just about wiped out the food we had on hand. It feels good to know so many were helped just a little bit this week. The McGimpseys do a great job with running the Food Pantry and they'll have more food bought and stocked for next week. The congregation has been faithful in bringing food in. I wish they could all see how the blessings are flowing out from their donations. It's a great ministry and much needed.
Today I went to Lifeway Christian store for some really good bargains on Christmas presents. I have such a limited budget, but I want to give gifts to family, too. I'm so thankful for the really good deals I found today.
Then I went to Walmart and spent another hour and a half picking up some groceries and just looking around the store. I am a fan of the clearance aisles and I found some good gifts there, too. One of the nice treats I got at Walmart today was cozy slipper socks for me and Deanna. We'll have happy toes now!! I was excited to find sweet potatoes on sale for .25 per pound. (it doesn't take much to thrill me) I bought 10 pounds! :) Deanna and I both love them fixed just about anyway you can imagine, so we'll enjoy this bargain for a few weeks!
Deanna and I have been thinking of all of the ways that we will use the left over turkey. We have some tasty recipes in mind. We're even planning some turkey and spinach alfredo. yum!
Speaking of food, the roasted potatoes and squash that we are having for dinner is ready. Gotta go! (God is soooo good!)
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
I can't believe it's the week before Thanksgiving! ahhh!!! Wow, has time flown by!
I had my 1 week checkup with Dr. Rogers today and I'm doing great! I've been such a good girl and taken it easy physically, while still getting to accomplish a lot of work on my laptop. I've been able to rest when needed, too. I haven't felt this good in a long, long time. Thank you Lord!! Dr. Rogers says everything is good. My gallbladder was chronically inflamed, which doesn't show up on any tests. Now that it's out, I am a new woman! I'll continue to eat healthy (and as organic as possible) to heal my liver and to get as strong as possible. I want to be ready for every opportunity that God brings my way!
Dr. Rogers is in the Army Reserves and is being deployed to Iraq in a few weeks. I'll keep him and his family in my prayers. I'm glad that he could be my doctor when I needed him.
The weather has become chilly and seems to be appropriate for this time of year. It puts me in the mood for Thanksgiving and Christmas!! I am ready to see some pretty snowflakes. They don't have to stick, just flutter!
Tomorrow evening I'm going to meet Gus, a puppy who I will be sitting with over the next week. I hope we hit it off nicely. I'm very spoiled with good old Jet here at home. :)
I seem to be waxing sentimental lately. I'm so thankful for the different people that God has brought into and out of - and through - my life. He has shown me many different aspects of Himself in each person and situation. He allows our lives to be very full if we just open up and allow it.
I know that one of the things I need to work on is not to be so task-oriented and to be more relationship-focused. I want to enjoy the journey and be a blessing to others along the way. I know I like to be around people who have that same mindset. And above all, He is to be adored.
I had my 1 week checkup with Dr. Rogers today and I'm doing great! I've been such a good girl and taken it easy physically, while still getting to accomplish a lot of work on my laptop. I've been able to rest when needed, too. I haven't felt this good in a long, long time. Thank you Lord!! Dr. Rogers says everything is good. My gallbladder was chronically inflamed, which doesn't show up on any tests. Now that it's out, I am a new woman! I'll continue to eat healthy (and as organic as possible) to heal my liver and to get as strong as possible. I want to be ready for every opportunity that God brings my way!
Dr. Rogers is in the Army Reserves and is being deployed to Iraq in a few weeks. I'll keep him and his family in my prayers. I'm glad that he could be my doctor when I needed him.
The weather has become chilly and seems to be appropriate for this time of year. It puts me in the mood for Thanksgiving and Christmas!! I am ready to see some pretty snowflakes. They don't have to stick, just flutter!
Tomorrow evening I'm going to meet Gus, a puppy who I will be sitting with over the next week. I hope we hit it off nicely. I'm very spoiled with good old Jet here at home. :)
I seem to be waxing sentimental lately. I'm so thankful for the different people that God has brought into and out of - and through - my life. He has shown me many different aspects of Himself in each person and situation. He allows our lives to be very full if we just open up and allow it.
I know that one of the things I need to work on is not to be so task-oriented and to be more relationship-focused. I want to enjoy the journey and be a blessing to others along the way. I know I like to be around people who have that same mindset. And above all, He is to be adored.
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
Well, I'm a happy woman! They finally did my gallbladder surgery yesterday. God was so comforting to me. I woke up at peace. Everyone at the surgery center was nice. One of the medical people who took care of me is from my church and I hadn't met her yet and she prayed with me before surgery. That was sweet. Dr. Rogers came in right before surgery and said he had practiced up on the person before me. I felt in good hands. When I put the paper hat on my head it reminded me of wearing a hairnet to work in the soup kitchens in nyc. I got to share a little about being a missionary in nyc and here, too. They covered me up with warm blankets and put those leg massager things on me. The nurse asked if I was okay and I told her I was pretending that I was at a spa. (although a spa would be cheaper)
I woke up in recovery and got to go home shortly after. I was expecting to feel horrible like I did after the liver biopsy, but it was not as bad. That made me happy. After a quick stop at the pharmacy for some pain meds, Deanna got me home about 1:30. I took a nap and then hung out in the recliner for the rest of the day. They had told me to walk frequently, so I did some laps around the living room, kitchen, hall. Jet started with me, but soon decided I wasn't going outside, so he just sat and looked at me like I was crazy.
I woke up this morning with no nausea for the first time in over a year. I already feel so much better. I'm excited. I have to take it easy for a few more days and I got to eat real food for dinner today. That baked potato was good!
I have a tendency to push too fast and too hard. But I'm being really good this time. I want to be healed up and raring to go asap. I am so thankful that I can work from home so I don't feel unproductive. I've gotten a lot done in the last few days. I've even started on Christmas cards.
I'm sure you are all as tired of hearing about my health as I am in complaining about it. It's smooth sailing from here. I'm soooo thankful for God's hand on my life.
Thanksgiving is coming so fast. I love it. The plans for our church's free meals are on track. It's a big undertaking, but God pulls it all together. This year's biggest challenge is funding it. As we grow in number of meals (due to more need) the cost goes up, too. Vendors are not as able to supply donated food as in the past. I know God has a plan for the money to come from the right place. Please join me in praying for God's will to be revealed. I know there are going to be many people blessed by the meals.
Christmas blessings are coming along, too. Food baskets and Angel Tree gifts are in the works. It's a tight time for everyone financially. But it's wonderful to see how God can take the little bit we contribute and He makes miracles happen with it. He doesn't need what we have to make His blessings happen, but He wants for us to be participants in the process to grow us and to let us feel the blessing of helping others. What a perfect plan.
Well, time for bed. I think I'll turn in early tonight. Slow and steady for now. And plenty of time to rest in God's peace and comfort. I'm so blessed.
I woke up in recovery and got to go home shortly after. I was expecting to feel horrible like I did after the liver biopsy, but it was not as bad. That made me happy. After a quick stop at the pharmacy for some pain meds, Deanna got me home about 1:30. I took a nap and then hung out in the recliner for the rest of the day. They had told me to walk frequently, so I did some laps around the living room, kitchen, hall. Jet started with me, but soon decided I wasn't going outside, so he just sat and looked at me like I was crazy.
I woke up this morning with no nausea for the first time in over a year. I already feel so much better. I'm excited. I have to take it easy for a few more days and I got to eat real food for dinner today. That baked potato was good!
I have a tendency to push too fast and too hard. But I'm being really good this time. I want to be healed up and raring to go asap. I am so thankful that I can work from home so I don't feel unproductive. I've gotten a lot done in the last few days. I've even started on Christmas cards.
I'm sure you are all as tired of hearing about my health as I am in complaining about it. It's smooth sailing from here. I'm soooo thankful for God's hand on my life.
Thanksgiving is coming so fast. I love it. The plans for our church's free meals are on track. It's a big undertaking, but God pulls it all together. This year's biggest challenge is funding it. As we grow in number of meals (due to more need) the cost goes up, too. Vendors are not as able to supply donated food as in the past. I know God has a plan for the money to come from the right place. Please join me in praying for God's will to be revealed. I know there are going to be many people blessed by the meals.
Christmas blessings are coming along, too. Food baskets and Angel Tree gifts are in the works. It's a tight time for everyone financially. But it's wonderful to see how God can take the little bit we contribute and He makes miracles happen with it. He doesn't need what we have to make His blessings happen, but He wants for us to be participants in the process to grow us and to let us feel the blessing of helping others. What a perfect plan.
Well, time for bed. I think I'll turn in early tonight. Slow and steady for now. And plenty of time to rest in God's peace and comfort. I'm so blessed.
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