Christmas - part 2.

Tomorrow we leave to spend some time with Laurie, Stephen and Kasey. It's been nearly 5 months since we've seen them and I just know that Kasey is a big boy now...after all, he's nearly two. :) Bags are all packed and we'll be ready to roll in the morning, dropping Lilly off at the kennel on the way to the airport. I still have some "battle scars" from the hospital but all in all I feel pretty good. Thankfully, we sent all their gifts out about 10 days ago to save some luggage space. I can't tell you exactly what this trip means to Ron and I - only that we are so thankful that we can make it there. Next year, we just might spend Christmas with Laurie and Stephen and Kasey if they can't make it home. Scott and Tina and the kids count on us to be here, yet we are needed by our other kids too - and sometimes we want to be there with them. It will be a good decision I think.
So, I may not be around for a week or so. Laurie has a computer but we will be doing a lot of day trips and ~ as so many of my other blogger friends do, it's ok to take a leave, right?
In the meantime, please keep praying for our troops. They have so much responsibility and are spread pretty thin. May God keep them strong and with a spirit of courage...for He does not give us a spirit of fear.
WOOO HOOOO....gonna see my soldiers...and our little man.
May God bless your New Year with His peace and grace.
Love,
Sue

Tidings of Comfort and Joy!!

Merry Christmas everyone!!
It's difficult to put into words what happened last night when I went to church. Though Ron is not a churchgoer (but is not without faith), I don't usually attend church by myself on Christmas eve - usually Scott and Tina and the kids attend with me. Last year - for the first time ever - all of us were there since Laurie, Stephen and Kasey were also home for the holidays. It was an awesome experience to have Laurie bring Kasey up to the choir loft in the balcony so that he could meet my fellow choir members. I joined my family in the pew after the choir's anthem and before long, Kasey was crawling across laps to get to Grandma.
Tina now attends a non denominational church - which is good too because her sister attends that same church and it's good for them to worship together. Tina's family situation isn't too good since she has no communication with her parents and oldest sister.
On Friday when I got home from the hospital, I left our Pastor a message that I was home, but that I would probably miss Christmas eve services. He prayed for me in church yesterday morning. But last night, busy as the day had been (well, for me it seemed a bit busy because I did a few things around the house and went on an outing to the drugstore with Ron) I needed to attend worship. Alone was ok - Christmas eve and Silent Night by candlelight...cannot have one with out the other.
So when I walked into the church narthex last night, so many people asked me how I was feeling...and it was so comforting. And when Pastor Garry and his wife Joanne walked out of his office, their hugs of true Christian love and affection were like a balm to my soul. Not that I haven't felt that warmth before, but with the events of this past week, it's good to feel that Christian love in a hug after knowing their prayers had done so much as well.
The sanctuary was beautiful, the service uplifting and full of the promise of the Christ child, and the love that God rained down on earth so long ago. As I looked around, I began to realize that "Christmas and Easter" worshippers are nearly a thing of the past in our church home. There were lots of new faces as the families and friends of our regular members joined in for worship. I saw two ladies who are ill with cancer and who heard the same message of hope. Ill as they are, their faces reflected the serenity of God's love at work in their lives.
Alone? How could I have thought that I would be alone?
Amidst the greenery, in the sharing of the holy supper, the sharing of the peace....and in the singing of Silent Night as we held our lit votives I was surrounded by family.
And the tidings of comfort and joy that I received last night is what I wish for you today. For those with loved ones far away, and for our military wherever they serve...God bless you for your sacrifice for it is our Armed Forces who help to give us our freedom to worship as we choose.
May the peace of the Christ child be with them - and with you.
Blessed holidays to you all, and love...
Sue

Listen - and then let Him do the rest.

When I wrote my last post on Monday night, I had no idea that 5 hours later I would be on a gurney in the ER, writhing in pain that had begun to bother me early Monday afternoon. How awesome God works - how He just tells you what you need to know and WHEN you need to know it. The pain was with me when I went to bed, and I had already decided that if it was still with me in the morning, I would call in sick and get myself to the Dr. The symptoms had been bothering me for a few weeks but like most people would, I chalked it up to stress.
I was able to sleep about an hour and a half Monday night but, when I woke up at 2 am - less than three hours after I went to bed, I asked Ron to take me to the hospital. After a series of tests and a CT scan, a very nice Dr. told me that I needed to be admitted - and while I won't go into detail, let me just say that all the surgeries and the c section I had over the years had left waaaay too much scar tissue and it very nicely decided to take over my small intestine and give me some terrific (NOT!!) complications. I am so seldom ill though, that I knew the pain was more than just a tummy ache. So, I had recognized the need to go to the hospital.
Thankfully, I was able to dodge surgery this time but it will happen again, and likely again. This was a most inconvenient time to be ill - haven't I been going on about the busy-ness of Christmas? And yet, as I laid in the hospital bed for four days, listening to the sounds of the hospital and being poked and pricked and having all sorts of tubes and things as company, the things of Christmas did not matter. The cookies that didn't get baked, the cards that didn't get sent, the last minute "stuff" just didn't matter. What matters most? Yet again, and as always, the Christ child. The One who was born so long ago to bring us everlasting life. And the One who brings us peace. It's not an easy thing to find peace in the sights and sounds of a hospital - unless that Peace has been your friend for a long. long time. There were many patients there who were far more ill than I - who don't have a prayer of being home for Christmas. Who may not be able to return home ever. On Wednesday, the staff had to move me from one room to another because they had brought a lady in who was what they called " a screamer." She was 87, in great misery and not able to be coherent or quiet. As I lay there listening to her moans, and to the sometimes rather rude comments to her by the staff (they thought she couldn't understand them), it didn't really matter whether I was moved or not - the sadness was in the situation this lady was in. From my new room that night - unable to sleep - the cries of that lady could be heard all around the floor. As well as far into the evening last night and into this morning. I pray that she once knew that Peace in her life - and that she will feel it again.
And when I left that place of healing today, I knew that the real healing had been done by God. The excellent medical staff were the vessel, He had done the healing.
Christians aren't supposed to be fearful - but He lets us use that fear for good sometimes in the middle of the night when you know something is wrong. It's then that He gives us the nudge to do what should be done~ and then He does the rest.
May He bless you.
Sue

Preparing for Jesus.

One week from now the gift wrapping will be history, and the kids gifts and toys will be scattered around the family room waiting for the inevitible moans about being too full from dinner but needing to get the kids home to bed. We'll make a thousand trips to Scott and Tina's car, stuff everything in around Veronica and Luke and send them on their way. This year, I will not have to go to work the day after Christmas so I will probably hit the pillow shortly after they leave and worry about the rest of the picking up in the morning. :)
Last night, we had our Christmas play at church - Too Too Busy - and it was about finding the real meaning of Christmas amidst all the preparation. It was a quick little play but the kids loved being part of it. The songs, the forgotten lines remembered just at the right moment with maybe a little bit of prompting, and the brief closing message from Pastor afterwards. It was a peaceful half hour that I was thankful to be part of as a Sunday School teacher - and I remembered all the Christmas plays my own children used to take part in.
The Gospel lesson yesterday was about John the Baptist preparing the way for Jesus. How do we prepare for a King? How did Mary prepare for Him? Mary was ready - she had put it all into God's hands.
I guess it's all a matter of the heart - we are either ready, or we aren't.
Some of us invite him by saying "Come Lord Jesus" or ask for more time by saying "oh not yet, there's too much to do!"
Wait a second - are we still talking about Christmas? I know several people who are very ill. Two of them are sisters in Christ - a few others are loved ones of friends or co-workers. My two sisters in Christ are faith filled and know that God has never left their side...and "Come Lord Jesus" are not frightening words for them to say. They are difficult words for those of us who love them, but words which hold hope as well.
Preparing for Jesus...wrapping gifts, planning a holiday meal, being "too too busy?"
Or just simply saying, "Come Lord Jesus" with a faith filled heart.
Yes, I like that greeting the best.
Blessings to you, my friends.
Sue

Tired feet!!

Well, Ron and I had an awesome date today. First we went to SEARS - I bought a blouse last week for Tina's sister and they forgot to remove the security device off the blouse and I didn't want to try taking it off the blouse because I know there is ink in those things. So they were very happy to use that special tool they have and I actually managed to get out of THAT store with out spending any more. We stopped to see Scott and Veronica for a little bit and there just happened to be some fresh chocolate chip cookies there which needed testing. Awesome. Veronica agreed.
Then we went to the largest mall in our area - just a little bit of shopping left to do but needed to go there because they have the only Discover store in our area. Many dollars - and about 6 miles of walking - later - we finally
got some dinner and made our last Christmas shopping stop - the liquor store for several bottles of wine. My girls that I supervise at work are all wine drinkers so they will be good with this when I place the tall snowflake bag on their desk next week.
I would say that this was our best shopping trip yet - simply because it was Saturday, it was our date, and the mall was packed with people. Some were smiling, others looked stressed, still others looked dazed and confused. S0mebody working in one of those kiosks stopped me and tried to sell me a $70 nail care kit. When I said that I would think about it and stop on my way back through the mall, he threw in what he thought would be the clincher - buy one, get one. No deal...and I always feel bad saying no, but had to (after all, they have bills to pay too). Just looking at the look on Ron's face as he waited for me..no deal was my only option. :)
So, here we are. Saturday night of the busiest shopping weekend of the year - we are home, watching network news (it's not good), and about to watch our Saturday night movies from Blockbuster.
Far away, much closer to the place where Jesus was born, our soldiers are
looking for the peace that baby boy brought to the world. And they will be the ones to help make that peace possible. The cost has been great - and will no doubt be greater still before the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan are over.
And tonight, my feet tired and sore from walking the mall, I think of the boots on the ground in the sand so far away, and also on the feet of our soldiers who serve in other nations - and on US soil protecting us. When do THEY rest? Soon, I hope. Very soon.
Blessings to your loved ones who serve and prayers for them as well as for those of us who wait.
Sue

Things remembered.

Today I left work early to meet Ron for an appointment he had. We couldn't decide where to have dinner afterward, but Ron finally thought of a place and I followed his truck as we began driving through familiar territory - the town where I grew up. Everything looked so different, but I still remember when the quiet two lane road we lived on became a four lane main thoroughfare. Eventually, we passed the house I grew up in.
A large white colonial home with a u-shaped driveway and the covered breeezeway dad had built from the ground up which connected the side door of the house to the oversized two car garage, it didn't look quite the same. There were no welcoming lights in the window - it was getting dark, but the family who now lives there was probably still scattered about at their jobs, or school, or errands. My mom was a stay at home mom so she always put the lights on at the first sign of darkness so that Dad, or us kids, wouldn't come home to a dark house. Of course when mom was home, the house was NEVER dark - lights or not - because she was the sunshine in our family.
I noticed a basketball hoop on a pole on the lawn in front of the garage so I guess there are children - or maybe teenagers - living there.
Going 50 mph on a busy 4 lane highway requires any sightseeing to be, at most, a quick glance as you drive by. But the things remembered in that glance can be so wonderful - and bittersweet. I remember the last time Ron and I and Scott were there. Mom and Dad were all but totally packed for their move to Florida, and as I went from room to room ( the bedroom where I had slept for all the years of my childhood, my parents' bedroom with the heavy mahogany bedroom set, the bathroom where my mom gave us countless baths, scrubbing our dirty knees and elbows and faces). There was the kitchen, and the family room (we used to call it the breakfast room because mom and dad put the kitchen table out there so we could sit in the warm sunshine as we ate our breakfast and watched mom make our lunches at the kitchen counter. Eventually the table went back out to the kitchen and the room became a family room of sorts where mom and dad had their before dinner drink after dad got home from work every evening. I remember walking out of the house for the last time...not wanting to leave this place that had been home to me since I was a year old.
I think it's probably how Laurie felt when she walked out the door for basic training - a hard step for us, not knowing then just how much our lives would change. Nearly 9 years later, how blessed we have been through it all. I pray that during all the time that she has been away - especially when she was in the sand - that she has been able to think of home and been comforted with the things she remembers.
In 2000, Scott left home as well as he found his first apartment. It was time and it was exciting for him, but it was difficult at the same time
For Ron and I it meant an empty nest.
My friend at work said to me the other day that things seem so different now - her sons are now both in college - the holidays are just not the same.
I can identify, can you?
But things remembered - makes you want to keep up the traditions - or begin new ones. In a couple of years, if God's plan is in accordance to ours, Ron and I will walk out of this house where our own children spent their childhood and begin a new life in a new place. This house - which has been "home" for so long - will perhaps someday be the destination of an afternoon drive for our own children.
And I wonder...what will they tell their children...what will be their things remembered?
Wishing you peaceful days of preparation for God's Son.
Sue

Crunch Time!!


Star of Hope

You know, every year I say that the last two weeks before Christmas are NOT going to be crazy. Ok, sure. So, two weekends remain before Christmas weekend. I WILL be done (she says convincingly). Today Ron and I have our usual Saturday date, but we're rearranging the schedule a bit. Instead of visting at Scott and Tina's house first, we will do our shopping and errands first and then head over there about 3:30. Veronica is going to dinner with us and doing an overnight at Nana and Papa's house. I can't wait - she is such a cutie. So I need to do a few things here first - like hide all the gifts that are wrapped and stacked in the family room so little eyes won't light up when Veronica walks in. Tomorrow we will have Veronica for the day and then Luke will be here for the evening as well because Scott and Tina have a Christmas party to go to.
I am excited about all of this - last night at our union's Christmas party, as I enjoyed the good food and the music and the chance to catch up with old friends who work at the university, I was looking forward to the busy-ness of the weekend. It's a laid back kind of busy-ness, nothing that absolutely HAS to be done, and that's what I love about it.
And yet, even in the busyness, there are always the thoughts of those who can't be home for Christmas. Not just the military in harm's way, but those who serve in other countries - and here on home soil - who can't get leave to come home. As a kid, when we went to church on Christmas eve, there was a young couple - they had been going together for ages. He was a soldier and couldn't always be home for the holidays. But when he could be, I remember that he had his uniform on, his girl on his arm and a look on his face that spoke total joy and peace. Oh that this look could be more present on Christmas eve nowadays.
That is my prayer - that no matter how busy we get, or who we miss, may we remember that God gave us His Son so that we would have great joy in all things. That our faith would grow in the serenity of a new born child - and that our hope would be constant.
I'm going shopping today (again) to get all the little gifts that I usually don't get 'til the last minute. (that's when the crunch time becomes panic time so I will try to avoid that this year).
My friends - it's going to be a busy one today - no doubt for you too. For those of you whose hearts aren't quite "into Christmas" this year because someone you love won't be there on Christmas morning, please remember that the BEST Christmas gift is something God gave us more than 2000 years ago. A gift that doesn't change, no matter how much the world changes around us.
Thanks for stopping in during crunch time.
Blessings,
Sue

Breath of Heaven.

On Sunday night, after our Congregational Christmas Potluck, we had a special worship service at church - it's the "hanging of the greens" service which commemorates the beginning of two things - the new church year and the beginning of Advent.
The sanctuary looks so beautiful - wreaths on all the windows, pine garlands adorning the walls, the Christmas trees. We do this to prepare for Jesus' birth - to welcome Him with praise and thankgiving.
And so, the special service is wonderful - music, special Scripture readings and a thoughtful homily. At this point, I'm going to ask you to recall a post I wrote back in the summer about a young woman - a daughter of our congregation who gave birth to a Downs Syndrome baby with some serious health problems. God has brought them through it all and the baby is doing well. Anyway, this young woman - Emily - sings as beautifully as a lark. She and her husband and his family are very active in a music ministry in their own church, but it's been difficult for them to participate in this ministry with the baby's health problems.
On Sunday night, we were gifted to have them take part in the service. And Emily sang Breath of Heaven - otherwise known as Mary's Song. It's lyrics are meant to be Mary speaking to God - asking Him to be with her on the road He is asking her to travel by giving birth to His Son. The words are spoken from a mother's heart - fear for what is ahead, darkness
lit only by His love. In her clear and wonderful voice, Emily sang with her whole heart - and anyone who knows what God has asked her to bear, could only hear her accceptance and her faith. It was so poignant - and so beautiful. I wouldn't have ever had the strength to sing that song - but God knew that she did. It was a blessing to all who were there - and though my eyes welled with tears, the smile on my face won out because of the beauty of the moment. There were no questions from Emily - no "Why us Lord?" Just a heartfelt and faith filled song. And it was like feeling A Breath of Heaven.
Mary and Emily - two young moms born two thousand years apart. They were asked to bear great burdens.
And yet ~ their faith was much greater than the burden.

Blessings,
Sue

Paint me a picture!

I love when someone paints a mental picture for me - well at least if it's a GOOD mental picture. Yesterday in her email, Laurie gave me a beautiful image to think about. Laurie leaves for work a lot earlier than Stephen does so Stephen drops Kasey off at daycare. But when Kasey hears that his mommy is up and about and getting ready for work, he likes to get up and spend a little bit of time with her. Laurie painted me a picture yesterday of a little boy in his feet pajamas drinking milk from a sippie cup as his mom got ready for work. Sometimes he jibber jabbers as he follows her, but other times he crawls into bed with Daddy and falls asleep for a little while longer. As I sat at my computer reading Laurie's email, I wanted so much to be there to see that picture in person. But, until we get there after Christmas, the mental picture will keep me smiling, just thankful for the fact that my daughter has a happy home and a little boy who follows her around in feet pajamas in the early hours of the morning, slugging down his milk. (Milk, juice, water...Kasey is a slugger - the term sippie cup is an oxymoron for him - no sips for him :).

Of course, we sometimes paint our own mental pictures. For the families of military personnel, it's very easy to let our imagination get the best of us and conger up a mental image that just sort of captures our worry about it all. It's a normal thing to do, (I can tell you that from experience) but it's not a good thing. All we need is to see a bad news report out of the sand. We provide the rest of the picture.

Besides Kasey's picture above, there is another picture that I like to think about. The Lord's capable and loving hands. He holds us all - comforts us when we worry, loves us even when we have a hard time trusting Him and His will. Whenever I worry about things that I can't do anything about, I try to remember that it's all too big for me - and that the Lord is waiting for me to put it in His hands. And not take it back.

Today, this weekend, each moment of every day, picture his outstretched hands. It's a comforting image, isn't it?

God bless our troops wherever they may be serving. Our picture of you is courage, and strength, and all that is good.

Perhaps God's Word in Phillippians 4 gives us the best advice...

"Finally, brothers, whatever things are true, whatever things are honorable, whatever things are just, whatever things are pure, whatever things are lovely, whatever things are of good report; if there is any virtue, and if there is any praise, think about these things."

God bless your day and thanks for stopping by,

Sue

There in spirit.

Well, Laurie was promoted today - to Staff Sgt. Three up, one down as they say. Sure wish we could have been there. This is a rank that she made just before she got out of active service but because she didn't have a year left to serve, she had to turn it down. I know that she was feeling good about her decision to leave the Army to have Kasey, and yet...there's this heart that beats in my child that is a soldier's heart.
And so, once she joined the reserves they didn't lose too much time promoting her.
It feels like one of those moments when mom and dad should have been there. But I am thankful that Stephen was. Now that they don't actually "pin" the rank on because of the velcro, I'm just wondering - how do they do the promotion?
When she was promoted to Sgt., Ron and I made the trip to pin her rank on. It was one of the most memorable days of my life and I did very well once I got a handle on things - hardly cried during the ceremony but as we sat there waiting for everyone to enter the room I was trying with all my might not to bawl like a baby - in case you haven't guessed, I get emotional about things like that. But as soon as all the "brass" walked in and then the soldiers being promoted, well, I was a goner. Of course I was discreet - or tried to be, because I knew that if Laurie saw me she would be the same way. And that just wouldn't do. SO I sucked it in and finally stopped.
Today at work, I kept watching the clock and, at the hour of her promotion, God heard a prayer from a new Staff Sgt.'s mom. A prayer of thanks that God has led her to be part of such an honorable profession. When I started out blogging back in July, my very first post acknowledged that life is a roller coaster, but it's a proud ride we venture on when we love a soldier (or two :).
All of you who are riding the curves of this adventuresome trip know what I am saying. The anguish can't take away the pride in moments like today.
And even though there are too many miles between us, our soldiers always know - we are there in spirit.
We were there today Laurie - and we love you.
To all the others who received new ranks today (and those who are waiting for that day still to come) God bless you as you serve - remember you are loved by many. And appreciated by all.
Blessings,
Sue

Hello Papa??


This picture of Veronica was snapped in our family room the other day when she was here paying her Papa a visit. She was standing about a foot away from Ron who was sitting in his recliner, she picked up the phone and said "Hi Papa!!" I love that little voice. She calls here a lot and she's always ready for whoever picks up the phone..."Hi Papa - Hi Nana..." and I melt when I hear her. Same for Kasey - we generally talk to Laurie and Stephen and Kasey a couple of times a week. Laurie picks up the phone and I hear her say, "Say hi Grandma..." and Kasey says "hi... I ou.." which of course translated is "I love you." And once again, I melt. With Luke, of course, we can actually carry on a conversation and not wonder what we are agreeing to. He is a cool kid.
Ron is such a good grandpa - he was on this mission to get an Elmo TMX for Veronica. A lot of stores in our area had them on sale, but of course they neglected to mention that only two of them were available to sell. So he went on Ebay and purchased a new one for $65. It arrived yesterday and Ron felt morally obligated to test it out. It's cute. It's very red. And it's noisy. Very noisy. I like the cute and the red - and even the noisy is ok. But Lilly? She stands back, tries to figure it out, but can't. So she does what ever other red blooded doggie would do (but which she rarely does).
She barks. It's funny to see - this red fuzzy thing rolling on the floor laughing and talking - and Lilly backing up and barking. Well, Christmas morning should be interesting - for about 5 minutes. Then I'm not sure what will happen or who will win - Elmo or Lilly. Yup - should be interesting.
This week has been a long one at work but it's almost done. With an even busier than usual weekend coming up, I'm planning to get a little extra sleep tonight and tomorrow night. I know that some of you may be havng trouble sleeping because you are dealing with deployments - or pending deployments. So I ampraying that He gives you good rest tonight. And that He restores your strength to meet the day tomorrow.
Thanks for letting me be a grandma tonight. It's one of my favorite hats - and I love wearing it.
Blessings,
Sue

God's generosity....

Today would have been my mom's 87th birthday.
Mom passed away in 2003 - on the same day that we (Ron and I & Scott, Tina, and Luke) returned from Laurie and Stephen's wedding out of town. After running through airports all day and waiting for delayed flights, I got home, heard my sister's voice on the answering machine and knew in my heart that mom was gone. Mom had suffered for many, many years with early onset Alzheimers - a disease that took her from us long before we were ready to lose her, and then took her away from us again when she passed away. My mom was the sweetest and most generous person on the face of this earth - she was beautiful inside and out. She and Dad were married nearly 60 years when Dad passed away in 1999 - taking care of mom for so many years had taken it's toll on Dad's heart, in more ways than one.
In this world, there are givers and there are takers - mom didn't know the meaning of the word "take." She gave - always, she gave. And she gave from her heart. Today, remembering the blessing God gave this world 87 years ago, I give Him praise because she was ours. We shared her a lot, but she was ours. She never gave so much to others that she didn't have anything left for us. We were the most important people in her life - but that's how she made everyone feel as well. But oh, after they moved, on those rare occasions when we were all together, mom's light was at it's brightest. She just sparkled.
Back to school shopping trips were awesome - and all those new dresses were kept washed and starched and ironed as though they were more than just school dresses, and she always made us feel like we were going to a party.
Most of all, I remember her faith. One day, when my sister was visiting her (Mom and Dad moved to Florida when my dad retired), she said to Michelle that she'd had a dream. In that dream she had met Jesus and she asked Him when she would be out of this prison that was Alzheimer's. He told her that He wasn't ready for her yet - and it was enough for her to know that He was still with her. Chelle said that her face lit up as she spoke about the dream and it was a gift to see that.
God is very generous. He gives us exactly who we need...remember that post a few weeks back about friends for a reason, a season, or a lifetime? And although mom was far too ill to attend my children's weddings, nor did she live to see my grandchildren, or to see her premature granddaughter become a Staff SGT in the Army, I believe that somehow she knows about them all and no doubt has a great view of it all from Heaven. She's probably commenting to Dad about how great we all turned out - well, she always did see things through rose colored glasses anyway. :)
God is so generous to give us these days of remembrance - it keeps us grounded - makes us realize what He's given us - and what we can give.
Thanks for letting me share - He is so generous to have given me friends like you.
Praying for all of our troops - may He bless them with strength, and courage ~ and safety.
Blessings,
Sue

Just plain thank you and God bless you.

Today, with all that is going on in the sand, I'd like to say something to our Troops.
We missed you on Thursday - missed your face at our dinner tables, your tales of mischief with your cousins or friends, your laughter. We missed you leaning your chairs back and saying "whew, Mom, you really
outdid yourself."
Oh you were here alright - you are ALWAYS here. But we missed you. On Thursday at Scott and Tina's I was asked to do the blessing before dinner. It went well - until I got to the part about you. I was able to ask God's blessing on Laurie and Stephen and Kasey with the words catching in my throat a little bit, because although we missed them at the table, we knew that Stephen was carving their own turkey for their little family. They are blessed to have each other. But then I got to the rest of you - and I was lucky to have been able to say anything at all. Because not only do we think about you, but about your families as well. Ron and I remember the Thanksgiving and Christmas that Stephen was in the sand as though it was yesterday. And it's something that we wouldn't want anyone going through - yet nearly 150,000 families ARE going through it right now.
Now, as so many people are storming the malls, or the Best Buy stores, or Wally World, I would like to think that they think about our military once in awhile - not just when they see the news - but that they take time out of their busy days to pray about them and for them. For that reason, I will wear my Military Moms sweatshirt today - to let them think about our sons and daughters, husbands or wives, or other loved ones are serving. Just so that in all the busy-ness of the shopping, they will remember them in prayer and be thankful for the things we often take for granted. And to remember their family members who are struggling to know what should go in the holiday boxes they are sending.
Today and everyday - to our troops who are serving in the finest military in the world, and to those who love them, this is just a simple message, but sincere...
THANK YOU AND GOD BLESS YOU!!

Sue

Waiting for Thomas!!

In exactly 17 minutes, I will lift the last of 3 pies from the oven - the house smells wonderful - I had requests for apple, cherry, and pumpkin pies and they are all done. Tomorrow will be a relatively quiet in the morning, but then Ron and I-and the pies- head out for Scott and Tina's house, picking up a couple of their friends on the way. I can already smell Tom turkey - he's going to be delicious. I love Thanksgiving - always have. It's more laid back than Christmas. Such great memories - from childhood, and from various points of my adult life.
Tomorrow will be the 37th Thanksgiving Ron and I have celebrated together. The holiday becomes more meaningful to me as I get older - and although it troubles my heart that our family cannot all be together, I am grateful that Laurie and Stephen and Kasey will be sitting at their own table carving up a turkey as well. I remember the years that Laurie was stationed in KY and would drive up for Thanksgiving. She would have a 9 hour drive here and back, but oh the house felt so good with her here. Then there was the year when Stephen was in KY for some training and couldn't get back to where he and Laurie live. They weren't married yet, but were engaged and it was a nice chance for us to bond with him. There was the year that Stephen was in the sand and Ron traveled out to be with Laurie for the holiday and I was surrounded by Scott and Tina and Luke. It was ok for Ron and I to be apart because Laurie needed him there. Isn't it amazing how we adjust to our situations?
For this Thanksgiving, I'd like to mention in particular all those who are serving in harm's way. Do you know how grateful we are for the job that you do? And only God knows how often our prayers are spoken on your behalf. Or how empty your chair is when your family is gathered at the dinner table. Remember, please, that to have you all home would make the holiday perfect, but just because you are there doesn't mean you aren't here at home with us.
Have courage, practice your faith, and be blessed.
Happy Thanksgiving to everyone.
Sue

Bends in the road and journeys of the heart.

The class I'm teaching for Sunday School this fall is called Road Map. My kids - a lively group of 10 7th and 8th grade boys and girls - are great. They are more than willing to share their thoughts which makes the class time really flow. This morning, we were talking about getting lost - in a car as you are traveling somewhere, or in life. I asked them to write down some things that would tell them how they know they are lost. Some of the boys were more than willing to share stories about how their moms got lost going somewhere. And then of course the girls were quick to tell some stories about how their dads got lost and wouldn't ask for directions. Like I said, they are happy to share their thoughts. But some of the kids knew what we were really looking for - and told about they would know they were headed the wrong way if drugs or alcohol suddenly seemed like a good idea. Anyway, they were understanding what the study material was trying to get across. If it feels wrong, don't go there.
How often do we set out in a direction that seems ok, only to lose our way or find that our plans change midstream? Sometimes our kids do things we don't expect (like join the military). On the day that child was born, you had no idea that would be the path he or she will take. But then you watch as the Army makes them strong, and disciplined, and willing to do what it takes to get the job done and you give thanks for the road less traveled - as you discover that it was the right way to go after all. That same road may take your heart to the sand- or to somewhere else far away, but that's just it. Your heart goes where your feet can't, and you are still traveling. Still wondering if it's where you want to go, but not wanting to stay behind.
Take any detours lately? Did you get lost - or did you find something better?
God bless your journey wherever you go.
And thanks for stopping here along the way.
Sue

Thirty seven years and counting!

Exactly thirty seven years ago, I was waking up on my wedding day. Ron and I had only been going together for three weeks when he proposed but then we waited another 6 months before we got married (well we had to plan the wedding...back then things were much simpler). I still remember what Ron's mom said to me when my dad and I walked into the church that Friday night back in 1969. "Now don't cry when your father walks you down the aisle - we don't want to have Ron see you crying." Well, I managed not to cry then...but anyone who looked closely at me when we left the ceremony as a married couple could see a few tears glistening in my eyes.
I can't tell you all that these past 37 years have meant to me being married to Ron - but I can say for sure that I can't imagine spending my life with anyone else. I have said that since the moment we began dating - and before. Now, as we watch our grown children living their lives and as we enjoy our three grandchildren as well, I shudder to think how empty my life would be without him. Thank you, God.
Grow old along with me - the best is yet to be.
Honey - I think those words were written for you and I.
To Ron - Happy Anniversary honey- I love you.
Thirty seven and counting....
Love,
Susie

TAKE ME ALONG!!


Happy Monday! The weekend sure did go quickly - but then what else is new? Ron and I had a great weekend - we went Christmas shopping for the grandkids on Saturday, visited Scott and Tina and Veronica (Luke continuing with his out and about and having fun tradition), and then Ron and I went out for dinner to The Red Lobster. That's a restaurant we save for special occasions so we decided to go there to celebrate our wedding anniversary which is tomorrow (more on that tomorrow) . and also to honor Ron on Veteran's Day too. So, we ate and ate (LOVE those cheesy-garlic biscuits), and got home early to watch movies and a documentary on CNN. As we sat watching movies (horror movies not my cup of tea) I got to thinking about my sisters. Being the middle kid, I have a sister Pat (older) and a younger sister too (Chelle) and though we fought like typical siblings when we were younger, we have been close in our adult years. We are separated by distance but still fortunate to be connected by a loving bond that has remained strong despite long separations and difficult family situations. As I thought about Pat, I was suddenly reminded of our high school years. Pat was always one to try out for every school play or operetta ever produced in the auditorium of our high school during her years there. With her sweet and clear singing voice and her ability to fill each role with emotion, she was always able to capture a top role. This past Saturday night, I recalled one operetta in particular...Take Me Along. It was a story about a man who couldn't hold on to any sort of relationship because of his inability to stay out of trouble. So, as the male lead sang his closing song with a broken heart, leaving town in disgrace, and without the woman he loves, he turns to board the large artificial train which served as the backdrop. From amongst the hushed audience came a sweet voice calling out..."Sid," and she began singing the finale..."Take me along, take me along..."
It was Pat. She had managed to walk into the dark auditorium during her co-cast member's song and had stopped next to my seat. With so much attention on the young man on stage singing his sad song, I hadn't noticed her standing there, which was exactly her intention, so that nothing gave her away. But as I wiped away the tears (yes, Nancy, even back then I was like that:), it dawned on me that this was the closing night of Pat's last high school operetta. I was so proud of her. So I picked up the phone yesterday and dialed her number in Tennessee just to say hi and I love you - sometimes those memories are God prompting us to do things like that. We haven't talked for awhile - no good reason, just time getting away from us both - and so it was good to chat. She invited Ron and I down to TN for my 60th in March and Chelle and her husband Bob will be going too we hope.
Take me along...take me along. I guess ~ in a way ~ that's what we are asking God to do when we pray for guidance. Take me along Lord and keep me on the path YOU would have me follow. I don't remember a time in my life when Jesus hasn't been present. In fact maybe God has been the one saying to me "take me along..take me along." I may have strayed off the path once in awhile - ok, probably lots of times - but He's always been with me.
Ever feel like that path stretches out long and uncertain? Deployments, or illness, any uncertain situation you know won't be settled soon? Our faith asks us to bid Him..."take me along Lord." Our trust tells us to hold out our hand and let Him lead us. His love for us answers that bidding every single time.
How awesome is that?
God bless you and those we love who serve.
Sue

Have you hugged a Veteran today?

This is a day of remembering all those who have served - and to honor all those who are now serving.
Before I went to work on the day that Laurie left active Army service after nearly 7 years, I removed the bumper sticker on my car which said, "My Daughter is Serving in the US Army" and replaced it with a new one which said, "HAVE YOU HUGGED A VETERAN TODAY?"
Ron and I took the two star banner out of the window, and replaced it with the one star banner which had been removed when Laurie and Stephen got engaged. At work, at the end of my desk, I replaced the paper copy of my two star banner with the one star and also posted the same bumper sticker above asking about hugging a veteran. I could still honor Laurie's service in this way. All of these little acts were bittersweet for us - only another military parent or relative can understand the pride and the fear, the love and the frustration, the ups and the downs of having a loved one serve. When it's all over, well, there is relief and also a tinge of regret.
Of course all of those actions were reversed when Laurie re-joined as a reservist. And it was then that I realized that those old familiar feelings in her serving hadn't diminished at all.
Like I said, it can only be understood by those who walk in the shoes.
My first words to Ron this morning were, "Happy Veteran's Day."
Ron served for 6 years in the Navy during the Vietnam War era - and in fact they did lose a comrade when their ship came under fire as it patrolled the shores of Vietnam. I am proud of his service too - and of his ever present loyalty to our country and our military.
I am one of those people who cries easily - not so much from sadness but from GOOD things. Things like joy; or pride (not boastful pride but a loyal pride like singing the Star Spangled Banner or God Bless America).
This morning on CNN there was a soldier currently serving in Iraq who was given a long distance reunion with his wife and 3 children. It was a public forum for such a private moment and yet, it was perfect.
The President will be at Arlington today presenting a wreath at the tomb of the unknowns and that ceremony will also be on CNN or FOX. And I will watch it - and probably shed a few tears because of the faithfulness God has shown to our country. From the very first moment America was born, men and women have fought hard - and constantly - for our freedom and
to keep us safe. The service of our military as I write this post is not one iota different. The methods and the weapons have changed, but their hearts have not. Quite simply, they are the finest military in the world, as we have always been blessed with. And God has always been faithful in His grace and love.
So - have YOU hugged a Veteran today? Go out and find one - and make sure they know how thankful you are for their courage and sacrifice. And then find a current member of the military if you can - or write to a man or woman who serves - and let them hear your gratitude as well.
God bless America and all those who love her and defend her.
Sue

Blessed are they...

Hi everyone! Well, you might have wondered where I've been lately. We have no internet at home and my workday doesn't normally allow for time to post here. But today, I am taking my lunch at my desk so I wanted to say hello.
Yesterday was All Saints Day - commemoration of the faithful departed. It's always a bittersweet Sunday - remembering friends and family in Christ who have passed away in the past year. Pastor remembers them individually in prayer, and then a bell tolls after each name is read. The Gospel lesson yesterday was the sermon on the mount from Matthew - the beatitudes. Though I used to get hung up in the meaning of each one, I now take them for what their simple message gives:
Beatitudes
Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.
Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth.
Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied.
Blessed are the merciful, for they shall receive mercy.
Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.
Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.
Blessed are those who have been persecuted for the sake of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
Blessed are you when people insult you and persecute you, and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of Me. Rejoice and be glad, for your reward in heaven is great; for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.
To me they say - be gentle, and compassionate, and seek the ways of the Lord no matter who defies or belittles or injures you. It tells me that no matter how low I may be in Spirit, He gives me the comfort of knowing that His love goodness are with me. To make peace out of chaos - in relationships you have with others, or in those trying times when two people you love are divided.
When we think of peacemakers, we think of ambassadors, or envoys, or leaders of nations. But when GOD thinks of peacemakers it is you and I that He thinks of. To pray, to reach out, to reason, to love. To help others to know the Peace that He gives.
So, my friends, thank you for the blessing of your friendship. I know that in many ways you show these things to so many. May He bless you for being a blessing.
See you soon I hope - until next time, I am thinking of you and keeping you in prayer - especially if you love someone in uniform, I wish you peace as we all pray for their safety.
Sue

Believe in yourself!!

As I sat in the classroom this morning, waiting for the exam to begin, I looked around at the typically colorful room with it's brightly decorated bulletin boards. Various themes for each bulletin board: Halloween, Reading; Be kind to others. My attention shifted to the open door as another exam taker entered the room. I re-checked all the forms I had completed - date, time, place of exam, all the pre-exam jitters making me check them one more time (about the 10th time in all). "Hmmm," I thought, "did I see all the bulletin boards in here?" I turned to my left at the largest bulletin board in the room and I could feel my eyes water as I gazed at its message. In an rainbowlike arc across the board I read:
BELIEVE IN YOURSELF!! Immediately, in my heart, the words were spoken to me in the voice of so many people....Ron, Laurie and Stephen, Scott and Tina, my sister, and my friends. I can't explain it, but it was a message that was sent exactly when I needed it. And I said thank you Lord. How great is He who brought me to a classroom that I have never seen before, and will likely not see again...but which displayed a powerful message.
The test? It was the most difficult exam I have ever taken - but likely the last. I went through all of the questions - answered those I could answer - marked the ones that needed to be thought about, and went back to them later. After that, I went back to the very beginning and re-read all the questions and all my answers. Two hours and 43 minutes later, I put my pencil down, gathered all my exam papers and forms, and gathered my things...bottle of water, calculator, my two #2 pencils, and my purse. The last thing left to do was to put my jacket on. Once I left the room, it would be over. Stopping at the proctor's desk, she checked to make sure everything was there in my test booklet, signed and complete. I thanked her and walked out the door...feeling behind me that colorful arc and taking it's message to heart. As I was leaving the building, one of the hall monitors - an elderly man with a smiling face said to me,
"piece of cake, eh?" Laughing, I said..."oh sure."
But as I walked to the door, I smiled to myself. And I believed.
Thanks for your prayers...see you tomorrow.
Blessings.
Sue

TESTING, TESTING ~ 1, 2, 3!!

It's time for putting aside the books and other study materials - and pack everything I need for the long awaited exam tomorrow morning. Number two pencils, my calculator, and a quiet snack in case I get hungry. It's going to take several hours - so I am told, anyway.
I'm not really nervous - just want it to be over. I've been preparing since July so if I'm not ready now, well then it's not for lack of trying. So if you could say a small prayer for me tomorrow, I'd appreciate it. And besides, God has it all figured out already. I know that He will be with me tomorrow and I will listen carefully for His wisdom to fall upon my ears and heart.
We have another winter storm system moving in for the weekend - and it will be a good night tomorrow to sit and relax with my flannel pjs on. Might watch the Sabres go for their 11th straight win. Thank goodness the Bills have a bye this weekend - we don't have to suffer through that on Sunday. They really need to work on their game.
October has been a terribly costly month. So much damage from storms, including the fire storms in CA.
But also, there has been a human toll this month - our troops suffering terribly, and the families of all deployed troops counting solely on God's mercy and grace.
His mercy and grace and our trust in Him. No matter what we are trusting in Him for - a good grade on an exam, or the life of someone we love - there is no comparison between the two, but that's just the thing. It's all important to Him.
Whatever you seek Him for, trust in His answers. Remember - Father Knows Best.
Thanks for stopping by - have a great weekend!
Sue

SOUP'S ON!!

At the end of a long work day, I used to come home and cook dinner - like most women do. But I am blessed to have Ron - who is retired now - and who LOVES to cook. Actually I should say CREATE!! Today he called me at work and said "would you mind stopping on your way home to get a loaf of crusty bread?" Immediately I thought..."YAY!!! Comfort food!!"
You see my day started out kind of bad. I had just pulled out of our driveway this morning when I realized that I forgot some cards that I wanted to write out and put in the mail during my lunch hour. So I copped a U-ee and went back up the hill and turned into our driveway. Ron and Lilly had just gotten up and were surprised to see me back already. I ran in, picked up the cards, and ran back out. Just as I was pulling the garage door shut behind me, a gust of wind came along and slammed it shut on my hand. I saw stars, and as I looked at my hand with the headlights providing the only light in the early morning darkness, I could see that it wasn't gonna be pretty.
It's not bad - there'a a small little lump that seems quite sore in one finger, bruised a couple of other fingers and one of my knuckles looks a little bigger than usual but I think I'm gonna live. :) All my data processing got done today so I'm definitely not disabled. But work didn't go too well - just technical problems with our financial aid reporting system but it will get worked out tomorrow, I'm sure. Anyway, I was really glad when Ron said we needed crusty bread.
As I drove into the driveway with freezing rain pelting the windshield, all I could think of was that Ron and Lilly were waiting for me - and that thought alone was enough to erase EVERYTHING that had happened today.
So, when I opened the door, there was Lilly sitting on the steps in the hallway - waiting for mommy...and Ron was standing right behind her. The aroma of homemade soup hit me and I thanked God for this man He has blessed me with. Oh and the doggie too.
Soup. It warms the tummy - but the love that's in it because of the hands that made it, that warms the soul. I love you, Ron.
I need to ask for some prayers for some military mom friends of mine who are going through a rough time right now because they fear for the lives of their children who are in the sand. Actually, this could be a request for many moms - or other loved ones of those serving. But the ones I am thinking of know who they are - and more importantly God knows who they are and who we are asking Him to protect. Our troops are going through some rough waters right now - may God keep them in His care. And may He give us peace in our hearts - for His love gives us a spirit of courage, and not fear. May that be so for us all.
God bless you and thanks for letting me share.
Sue

Sweetest Day!!!

Ok today is Sweetest Day. Ever hear of it, or is it just an Eastern part of the country tradition? It's always the 3rd Saturday in October and is a day set aside for people to remember their sweethearts or spouses. Now it may sound like Valentine's day but the difference is that Valentine's Day is for everyone. So, anyway, last year - for the first time in our 36 years of marriage, I FORGOT and RON REMEMBERED. Never again would I do that. Until this morning. MAN OH MAN - you want to see upset? Me, this morning, as Ron presented me with a card and box of turtles...THAT is upset. So anyway, if you are reading this and you observe sweetest day - today is the day...go out and buy something. :) Me, well, Ron is taking me to a movie - I think the WWII Flags of our Fathers movie, and then I am buying dinner. We'll do someplace nicer today.
Got a phone call on Thursday from the Personnel office - exam postponed because of the storm we had. Thank you God - cause I still have some accounting studying to do.
Time to get ready for our date...but before I leave I just wanted to say thank you for being here. I try to always offer something positive or to make you smile. It's not always easy to come up with a post - Cat, Heather, and Erik can all tell you that words don't always come easy (well Erik, my friend, always seems to have stuff to say - and I mean that in a good way Erik - you've given me lots to think about and smile about). For my friends here with military loved ones, I know from experience that sometimes the days seem soooo long. And the weekends seem to never end - so many hours to fill. But remember, please, that we are praying for your troops - and for all the troops. And thankfully it's not our prayers that change things - but God's answers.
God bless your day - I'll be thinking of you.
Sue

Ahhhh - tylenol, tea, and fruit, and cake.

Tough day - lots to do at work and just one of those "oh my gosh - where did this headache come from?" types of days. I think it's the weather but it's the worse headache I've had in awhile. On campus today, we watched the work crews with chain saws splitting up the tree limbs which have fallen down all over the place. Kind of sad to see so many beautiful trees depleted by the storm we had last week, but I know that God makes all things new according to His plan. So now, the brilliant colors that were once reaching out from the branches look up at us from the ground. But that's the thing - the colors still shout out the glory of His handiwork. And the branches they still cling to will not be renewed, but the trees that they once were connected are probably already beginning new growth.
In the news today was a very sobering report out of the sand - 11 soldiers lost yesterday and today. I do not understand, sometimes, how this all works. And I know that my questions do not fall on deaf ears when I pray "Why does this happen, Lord?" He hears me - hears us all - but it's not an easy thing, is it? I pray for it to end, yet also I know that His will has already determined the exact moment when that will happen. And so I trust in that will - for your loved ones who serve, and for mine as well.
Studying to do tonight - we will also talk to Laurie and Stephen and Kasey. For now, I sit at my computer allowing the tylenol to kick in, and enjoying my cup of tea and my fat free fig newtons (fruit and cake :).
The long day is behind me and a quiet night lies ahead. I wish you restful sleep and a blessed Thursday.
Thanks for stopping by,
Sue

Storm heroes...and what we do best

As life goes on....

Well, everyone here is calling it the October Surprise. It was a surprise alright - 23 inches of snow fell on Buffalo Thursday night and by 1:30 Friday morning, our power had gone out and would be out for 3 1/2 days. Towns are actually closed to all traffic except emergency and utility vehicles; schools and churches are open only as warming centers, and several school districts are closed for the entire week. Of course our office has been closed so I have been home from work and Lilly is trying to figure this whole thing out. (Why is this lady home? Isn't she supposed to be out making money to buy my biscuits?).
She has been sleeping with us - good, warm doggie.
On Friday night, Scott, Tina, and the kids were here because their house was without power or heat. Our family room has a gas wall furnace which still had working burners, although the fan didn't work. But it was toasty. We played Star Wars Trivial Pursuit by candlelight, and ate lots of comfort food. (couldn't let the food in the fridge spoil now, could we?).
My fridge is cleaner than it has been in ages because I had to clean it yesterday after tossing the bad stuff...that's a good thing. Today, I'll be doing a few things around here that I've been wanting to do for awhile but don't normally have the energy to do after working all week.
I did manage to make Ron learn that living with me is a challenge - ok let me re-phrase that: Ron found out that I am always coming up with new ways to make him shake his head...like yesterday morning as I was getting ready for church. I lined up some of my heat rollers on the wall furnace in the family room. I don't do straight hair very well, so I thought this would do the trick. They warmed up fast, but alas, it was just the outside that warmed up and not the core of the curler. Bottom line, it didn't work well. But I wasn't the only one at church with bad hair. And you know what? It didn't really bother me. We find out what's important in times like this.
I have a friend at church who is suffering from lung cancer, but who has the most wonderful attitude about it. Her daughter, also a very good friend of mine, said that her mom said about the weather and power failure: "If I weren't sick this would be fun...but I am glad to be here to see it. " Ok THAT puts things into perspective, doesn't it?
And everywhere there are heroes...the men and women who work for the power companies, the fire and police departments, and everyone who has helped anyone during this experience. The local radio stations who have kept going on generator power, linking those with portable radios to the outside world. We bought our short wave/am-fm radio in December 1999 when everyone was concerned about the millenium. So we put some new batteries in it and listened to the heroes of the airwaves tell the stories of the heroes out in the storm. I am in awe of the people who work for utility companies.
So I am home for at least today, and counting my blessings. Thanking God for the extra time I had with my children and grandchildren, for the fact that we have power when others don't - and maybe they NEED power more than Ron and I do. And for the fact that even in darkness, God's light doesn't disappear. He is always with us.
About 10 minutes after our power went on yesterday, I turned on the TV. Kind of reluctantly, but still wondering what was going on in the world, I put Fox News on. There, as it seems happens so often these days, the breaking news was telling about a disaster...this time the quake in HI. And there were all the things that were going on here...lines at the grocery stores, the working gas stations, hotels...the only difference was that the temperatures there were in the 80s.
And life goes on...just as we do - no matter what.
Because God always helps us to find the blessing.
'Til next time,
Sue

My best friend for life


A reason, a season, or a lifetime.

I got one of those emails from a friend of mine - one that had been forwarded a million times but the message is new each time you receive it because it's sent by a different person. And so this one explains why people come into our lives...it's for a reason, a season or a lifetime. If someone comes into your life for a reason, you have asked for that friend...and you think that the person is a Godsend because you never could have made it through without this friend. This is true. because it's God's way of answering your prayer for help. In this friend, He is present. The friends that come into your life for a reason don't always stay...but God does ~ and you (and prayerfully the friend) are far richer than you were.
As friends come into our lives for a season, it could be to help you through several situations - or to make you laugh, and know how blessed you are by God's love. These friendships, too, are not forever, but hopefully our lives will reflect that wonderful season God gave to you both. Share the laughter, or the goodness, or the love with others. Maybe share all three.
Lifetime friends - well, those friends need to be just as blessed by your friendship as you are by theirs. Lessons learned and taught; blessings given and received; strength offered and accepted. Some of you are friends I may never meet, yet your being here is a blessing. Friends sent for a reason or a season and who are a gift. Others are helping me to realize that this season of life I am in is to be experienced to it's fullest. You encourage and give me your shoulder or your ear (sometimes I need both of your ears cause I have a lot to say).
But my lifetime friends - well many of you know who you are. My family ~ I love them so. The picture above of Ron and I is one of my favorites - the smiles are real - our love is real now, and has been for over 37 years since we first met. I can't believe God has been so gracious to me in giving me Ron to spend my life with - but I don't question it and I praise God every day.
And my "heart friends" ~ those who truly understand me. And some only God knows will be lifetime friends ~ it will be my joy to discover who those are. Lifetime doesn't necessarily mean the time we are here on earth. If you believe as I believe - in eternal life through our Lord Jesus - then we can look forward to spending our lives together for another lifetime with Him.
When we meet new friends, we may not know the length of that friendship - or why God brought that person into our lives. But we need to enjoy the blessing and thank Him each and every day...just as I thank Him for you.
It's been a few days since I last posted - busy at work and busy at home and also taking care of some issues that needed to be addressed.
But wherever you are, know that I am grateful that you are here. Even when I can't be.
See you tomorrow, friends.
Sue

Half full or half empty??

Are you an optimist or a pessimist? It's late on Saturday night - now I COULD say that the weekend is almost over because Friday night and Saturday are behind us. BUT, tomorrow is Sunday - usually a busy day for me in the morning with church and Sunday school. But Sundays are great! Come home from church, change into comfy clothes and have my 2 weekly eggs over easy and rye toast. Not very exciting, but then I get to sit and relax with a cup of coffee too - do a few things before the football game starts and then try to get something done during the game like folding laundry or dusting - you know, just so I get things in order before the week begins again. Soooo Sunday is a great big day still ahead of me and what's behind has been a wonderful night and day as well.
Last night Luke and Veronica slept over - boy Veronica is a busy little girl. Luke, well, he's more laid back - watches his movies or cartoons and occasionally likes a snack. He's a great kid and we enjoy watching him as he grows up. He's nine now - 4th grade you know - big stuff. Quite a dude.
But Veronica, well, she was awake at 0430 this morning and standing in her portacrib crying her little eyes out so I put her in bed with Ron and I (and of course Lilly). After an hour or so she fell back to sleep and we did too - til about 7. Then our day began...took the kids to Denny's for breakfast before we took them home. Tina cut my hair, we did some shopping, and went to an RV show. Perfect day for that...not too warm, but sunny. A nice fall day. The leaves are beautiful and will be on the ground very soon (but we can hope for strong winds so they just keep blowing down the street). All in all a wonderful day.
But then we have a whole new day tomorrow - and I for one am an optimist. It's going to be just as good, if not better!
I hope that God will bless your Sunday...
Thanks for stopping by.
Sue

I just love this picture of Ron and Kasey, don't you?








TRIAL BALANCES??

Well, here I am, studying for this exam. I do very well with sorting out numbers and with the multiple choice questions about supervision and math. I do all that stuff every single day in my job. But then there is this accounting stuff....ledgers, and debits and credits. And trial balances.
Huh? Is that like, you know, the scales of justice? Nope, no such luck. And so I am making tons of notes - maybe I can understand my own notes better than this Accounting for Dummies book I borrowed.
There is also the matter of Lilly. I curl up on the couch with my books and my notes and my calculator and my cup of tea. (trial balance of a different kind :) And of course since she hasn't seen mommy all day, Lilly gets as close as she can, puts her little face on my arm (awwww) and falls asleep. Therefore, I do not write. I read. And I do not calculate because you have to hold the book with one hand and the calculator with the other. So I read. About ledgers and liabilities and assets...and trial balances. Geesh.
I only have 16 days til this exam. Lilly is gonna have to nap somewhere else - or I am going to have to learn speed reading.
This picture of Ron and Kasey is one of my favorites.
Hope all is well in your corner of the world. Erik, I hope Missy is doing well...getting close now. Tomorrow night I need to sit down and figure out how to post links...that might mean I'll have to look for instructions.
And that will mean more reading...oh goody, more reading.
Blessings my friends - tomorrow is another day.
Sue

Sore is good...

Well, yesterday was one of the most wonderful experiences of my life. It was the annual Making Strides for Breast Cancer walk. I am always in awe of these things - how they always seem to be a success. But this year was different - I was no longer on the outside looking in. And it was awesome - just awesome. It began with the worship service led by our Pastor for anyone who had gathered there in the hours before the walk began. Soon, the downtown square was wall to wall people - men and women in "I survived breast cancer shirts" (men too because breast cancer does not discriminate against men); women with pink hats covering the hair loss from chemotherapy; and men, women, and children of all ages with signs on their jackets and shirts: "Rosie's team" or "in memory of Donna."
There was the warm-up, and the count down...and then the walk. Over 3 miles of winding streets and sidewalk through the lakefront developments.
Eventually these old legs just needed a moment's rest. So I sat on a rock on the lake's edge - took a sip of bottled water, and prayed for the strength to finish. If I could finish, then the excitement, and the fundraising, and the trust that my family and friends had in me would be well placed. So, I got up and continued walking. A friend from church came up behind me and it was good to have someone to walk with. As we neared the home stretch we heard the people cheering for those nearing the finish line, I knew that soon it would be me walking past the cheerleaders and into the crowd of those gathered at the end of the line.
My eyes welled up with tears as volunteers offered water and apples and granola bars to the walkers. Tears not of sadness, or fatigue, but of unbridled joy at having been a part of this event. Not everyone would understand the tears, but I think most of you do ~ because you know me. The tears were because I wasn't watching and wishing I was part of it. They were for all who hadn't made it through the battle of cancer, and they were because I was realizing God had answered my prayers every step of the way. Truly, He was my strength.
When I got home, it was hard to explain what the day had meant. I made a snack, laid down on the couch with Lilly to watch the football game, and woke up 3 hours later.
Today, I am sore and tired and happy. And more thankful than ever because God truly was with us yesterday - all 8,000 of us.
The theme of this year's event was "Hope Starts Here."
Well, maybe that is partly true, but for me, hope began 2000 years ago on a cross, on a hill.
And because of that hope, we have the strength and the desire to pass the torch of hope to others.
Thank you for your thoughts and prayers.
Blessings,
Sue

What's your dream?









Ok, I guess today's post will be about something I've always wanted to do. I guess you'd call it my dream.
For years - as far back as I can remember - writing has been kind of a passion for me. Mostly I've used it as the vessel for telling others how I feel - I've written a poem about the heart of a soldier (inspired by Laurie - it actually got published), have written and sent stories to magazines (they were very polite when they said no thank you); have entered contests, or written devotions for our church groups. But I have not accomplished my dream yet...to write something major. Ron and the kids are behind me 100%. One of my favorite Christian writers is Marjorie Holmes. She has written so many beautiful essays and stories...
I'm not sure - maybe the only writing I am meant to do is for my family, or for church; and maybe this blog will be the only writing I do that will be viewed by the public...if that's the case, so be it. The whole idea behind this blog is to reach people...to encourage...to bring a smile. If that's what God has planned for me, so be it. But still...when I grow up (or retire)...my dream is to be a writer. What's YOUR dream? Please share...after all, this is your site too.
God bless you, and God bless our Troops.
Sue

Bits and pieces and thoughts of friends...

Well, today I did something I haven't done in nearly a year - I called in sick. Calling in sick is something that I don't do lightly - but after the night I had, there really wasn't much of a choice. So I spent the day studying for my exam and watching old movies with Lilly. Ron had chores to do outside so I didn't see him much, but Lilly is good company. She curls up on the couch next to me (she has a large bath towel on this designated area so she always knows where she is supposed to be. Uh, yeah, right. Key word there is SUPPOSED).
So today I'd like to wish my friend Wendy a Happy Birthday. She is one of my Military Mom cyber friends who lives in the great state of Wisconsin. Her son Jay is over in the sand right now and I know that her birthday would be a lot happier if he was stateside. She is an awesome lady and deserves only good things. HAPPY BIRTHDAY WENDY!!!' I hope God gifted you today with a phone call from Jay.
I am so excited to tell you that this Sunday I am participating in the Making Strides for Breast Cancer 5K walk. I've never done that before - never had the energy or really thought that it could make a difference. Recently I've kind of of had a new attitude about things - I want to do new things. Things that I've been afraid to do because I didn't think it was possible. The white water rafting with Laurie, the horseback riding, these things were so much fun. And now the walk - there are 8 of us from church participating. It's not really a big deal - people do these kinds of things every day - but for me, it's exciting.
Anyway, this morning, I logged into my email and there was an email from the website I had registered on for the Cancer walk and the email said "your goal has been reached!!" Everyone who signs up for this walk sets a goal for donations. And so, this morning, my sister and her daughter - my niece Erika - donated $125 and I was thrilled. This is my little sister - Chelle, who lives in FL and who I don't see nearly enough but talk to each other as often as we can. Chelle - and Erika - thank you so much for your contribution. What a wonderful gift. I promise that I will make it all the way to the finish line. Wish you were here to walk it with me.
Speaking of gifts, it's almost time to start my Christmas shopping. I can hear the groans - but seriously, it's time. I have to do it in bits and pieces so the past couple of years I have been buying earlier. That gives me time to do my cookies and Christmas cards too. We are planning on visiting Laurie, Stephen and Kasey during the week after Christmas but with the airfares that I've been finding, we might be making it a road trip. That's always fun but in the winter could be tricky. We'll figure it out.
So many people are on my mind tonight and lots of situations too. Too many to mention here for fear of slighting someone. Just remember that you are all important to me and for those with heavy hearts, or difficult situations, and for those waiting for their loved ones to return from the sand, please remember that it's far too big for us to handle, but God has it in His hands and hears our prayers. Every one of them.
See you again soon my friends,
Sue

It's Fall!!

Fall arrived this week - on the calendar anyway. Our temps are still somewhat warm for this time of year, but the mornings and the evenings are definitely cooler. It's that time of year when it's too late to wear summer clothes, too early to wear the heavier garb of winter and so you have to search until you find just the right layering effect so that if the office is too warm you can shed a layer without looking too summery. Know what I mean ladies? And, since I have been able to shed a few lbs. in recent months, it's going to be a bit boring in the wardrobe department until I can find a few more things at SEARS to mix and match.
I think every woman reading this blog can identify with the seasonal wardrobe thing.
But there is more to a change of season than a change of wardrobe. For many of my friends, it's a season closer to their kids coming home from the sandbox...or for some, the season during which their children deploy.
It's a season when most of us think about Halloween, or Thanksgiving, or raking leaves. Pumpkins and winter squash; huge rust colored mum plants on our front porch.
But for others it's a time to think about what they will send in the holiday boxes for their loved ones who aren't home for the holidays. They don't need to be deployed to be missed...from personal experience, I can assure you of that.
And so what do we do when that familiar empty feeling sets in? For me, I look at the beauty God places in our world...the leaves of amber and orange and a thousand shades of red and I remember that the same hand who created that beauty is holding all of us in His care. It doesn't bring our loved ones closer in miles, but it reminds me that we are all in the same loving embrace at the same exact time.
Remember His love for us - it is far reaching, and never ending. As I begin to buy things for the holiday packages I'll be sending to loved ones, I'll be remembering that He keeps us close. And though many who read this are friends from across the country, He also keeps US close.
Enjoy your weekend - it's a whole new season to celebrate His goodness and grace.
Blessings.
Sue