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Morning Devotional...



Troubled by Trouble?

When you hear of wars and rumors of wars, do not be troubled; for such things must happen, but the end is not yet.
Mark 13:7

Recommended Reading
Mark 13:5-13


The newspapers are filled with troubling stories—frightening pandemics and deadly viruses; radical extremists swallowing vast chunks of the Middle East; biblical standards collapsing in a culture that no longer fears the Lord. But remember, these things are predicted in advance. Notice that Jesus didn't say "If you hear...," but "When you hear...." Trouble will come, yet our Lord told us not to be troubled by trouble.


The Psalms teach us the same lesson. Ponder these verses: "In the time of trouble He shall hide me in His pavilion.... This poor man cried out, and the Lord heard him, and saved him out of all his troubles.... God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.... Trouble and anguish have overtaken me, yet Your commandments are my delights... Though I walk in the midst of trouble, You will revive me."  (Psalm 27:5; 34:6; 46:1; 119:143; 138:7).

It's not if but when. Yet God's answer to trouble is trust; our answer to fear is faith.


From "Today's Turning Point" by Dr. Davd Jeremiah

Hi, Friends,

Jeanne, I enjoyed that devotional.  And, I trust that someone will put a link to this forum from the one that was active last week. :)

I got to go to church, then had a leisurely afternoon with lunch with 2 separate sets of friends, then a talk with one of my sons on the phone. Now, I'm resting a bit.

Y'all have a good rest of the day.

Ruth Ann

Ruth Ann, I am sure I did put a link in last week's topic, but it seems the cyber gremlins have been at work and it disappeared.  Thank you for bringing it to my attention and I'll take care of it right away.

Thanks, so much, for the devotional thoughts for this week, Jeanne ... I really appreciate all that goes into keeping this site running and everything you and the other administrators do .....

I must let y'all know that my daughter, Joy, called me this afternoon.  She sounded so GREAT and said she is feeling good.  She still has limited energy, and some pain left from her surgery, but is doing very well otherwise.  She had her first appointment with the oncologist, and was told her pancreatic cancer was stage 3a ... he said "well, that's better than 3b, isn't it?"  The next appointment is Wednesday, when he will discuss the "very mild" chemo treatment she will need.   :-\  She, and I, believe there is nothing to "fight" because the Whipple took care of all the cancer.  This will just be sort of a "mop up" of any lingering cells. 

She says she eats well ... 1/2 a sandwich at a time, but often .... raw food is difficult, and causes pain, so salad is a chore, but I reminded her the Nutritionist said that when she saw her in the hospital.  It's really anything goes, just low fat.

A little side note: when the doctor came into the room, he shook hands with John and then Joy hopped up on the table ... he was surprised because he had expected that John was the patient.  Joy looks so well and healthy, and John looked like he needed a doctor!   ;D 

We are praising the Lord for His merciful goodness and enduring love ... Some of Joy's friends have checked out Cancer Centers of America, and given her all the info she'll need to go there for a second opinion.  Joy was searching the internet for articles on beating pancreatic cancer, and the recommended diets and treatments offered .... she got so depressed and stressed that she was getting sick, and told John he could do the reading because she just could not go through that .... She has decided to believe there is no need to go any further than where she is now ... she'll see what this oncologist has to say on Wednesday, and take his advice, but probably will not look for a second opinion.  We BELIEVE that she is cancer free and on her way to a full and healthy future!  :thumbsup:

Hi everyone on a foggy Monday morning here in South Carolina.  However, it is suppose to get up to 73 degrees this afternoon, which will be much appreciated.  I hope to get  driver's license today and perhaps the blood tests and x-rays that Pat and I need to have soon shortly.  I want to attend a meeting at noon today if the schedule works out.  We went to church yesterday morning and heard a powerful message.  We then went out for lunch and later in the afternoon did more work on Pat's sewing room, getting it much more organized and her sewing machine put back into it's cabinet. 

Jeanne, thanks for that very timely Devotional thought for this week.  There are certainly plenty of troubles all over the world and in our own country. 

Ruth Ann, sounds like you had a very enjoyable Sunday. 

Jane, what great news regarding your daughter feeling so much better and sure the doctors don't want to take any chances they didn't get all of the cancer so doing the chemo treatments. 

Jane, thanks for that wonderful update on Joy's condition.  I'll just continue keeping her in God's hand.   :thumbsup:

Sitting in our motel room here in Kissimmee, Florida and it was so good to read the devotional this week.  This is a great place.  It's a very, very old Howard Johnson with three floors and we like to have the top floor with no noise above us.  The swimming pool is amazing.  They keep it at 82 decrees 24 hours a day!  There are many Canadians here--one couple from my city of Guelph and their friends from Orangeville (where Ian lives). 

We leave here tomorrow headed to Beverly and Chapin Pratt's home in The Villages for one night and then on out to Pensacola, Florida to stay with Paul's son and family for a week.  Hopefully we'll be meeting up with Larry and Pat as well on this little trip.

We've had two great visits with Paul's elder brother and his wife up north of Orlando.

Again, Jeanne, thanks for the great devotional.

Good to see you posting here, Pat, and glad you're getting a break from this year's "super" winter while you hook up with friends and family.   :D

Hi, friends,

It was a good day most of the day, until I got on the internet. Then, problems appeared. It seems after running some tests,  the computer needs a tuneup. :(

Y'all have a good day.

Ruth Ann

hello everyone, Jeanne great devotional today very timely considering the circumstances going on in the world today.

Jane Thanks for the update on Joy.

Pat nice to hear from you as well.

Not much new here today. Keith's cataract surgery is next week. Bebe is doing well she gets her sutures out on Wednesday.

As for me, all is well, I skipped the gym today because I went to the foot doctor and off to the farm store to purchase dog food.

Hi everyone on a very cloudy but not cold day.  Yesterday it got to 76 degrees but today will be in the low 60s.  No complaints about that.  We are to have some periods of rain today and tonight.  We finally had success and were able to get our driver's licenses.  So I think we should be through with the DMV for quite a long time.  They are good for 5 years and we just had to take an eye test.  Later we went to a meeting and got on the wrong road coming back so saw some of the country around here.  It was a beautiful day so was enjoyable to drive the extra miles and see the countryside.  We did stop and have a late lunch at KFC.  I have no particular plans for today.  I got up and got cleaned up for the day but then laid back down and read my email and the message boards postings. 

Pat, for about 20 years we had a timeshare at Kissimmee that was just outside the Disney property.  We went there the Saturday after Thanksgiving each year and the weather was usually great.  Glad you are enjoying your Florida vacation and we are certainly looking forward to having you visit us in a few days. 

Marilyn, is Keith dreading the cataract surgery or just looking forward to seeing better (perhaps a bit of both)?

Larry I think Keith was a little apprehensive at first  and that's why he kept putting off going to the eye Dr. but now he is looking forward to seeing much better and getting it over with. I believe his main concern was how much it was going to cost him since the only coverage he has is Medicare. he doesn't believe in insurance, says  why pay something every month that doesn't get used.  He even dropped the house insurance a couple of years ago. I keep after him to take out at least life insurance and tell him that someday he will wish he had health insurance, but I'm talking to a stone wall..

Don's cousins arrive tomorrow and all is ready here.  We are going in circles dealing with a bank but that is the usual happening unfortunately.  Bureaucracy is as bad as the government - well, it is all the rules set by the gov. anyway.  We just got in the door and now have to turn around in 20 minutes for "one more thing". 

Larry:  congrats on getting your licenses. 

Pat:  enjoy that pool as often as you can.  Have a safe trip and a wonderful visit with Larry and Pat. 

Ruth Ann:  I had to buy a new power cable after finally figuring out it wasn't fully charging and sometimes not charging at all.  Good wishes on your tech problem. 

What does Kissimmee mean?   

Hi everyone.  More clouds this morning but we are headed up to 80 this afternoon.  We had a pretty laid back day yesterday.  We did make a fast trip to Walmart to return a couple of items and to pick up a few things.  We then went to the local library and got new library cards and Pat and I each checked out a few items.  I dealt with a few more business items yesterday.  I received notice that there is a manufacturing problem with one of the leads in pacemaker and so will have to follow up on that today.  The last time I had it checked the tech mentioned something had shown up as not being just right but didn't feel it was a problem, but guess it may be.  The only plans we have so far for today are to attend a Wednesday night dinner at the church we attended Sunday and this starts at 5:30.  They have some classes afterwards but will have to make that decision as to whether to attend or not when the time comes.  With Daylight Savings starting soon we should be able to do the class and still get home before dark.

Marilyn, I would be a pauper today had I not had health insurance with all the expensive health problems we have had over the years.  I hope Keith's health holds out and he won't regret his decision. 

Carol, sorry to hear you are having problems with a bank.  I think I mentioned that my bank put a 14 day hold on the proceeds from the sale of our home in Georgia.  I was sure glad I wasn't depending on that to apply to my new home.  More government regulations prevent me from reinvesting those proceeds back into the investment account I took my down payment until March 9 if it is to be done electronically.  However, I could mail in a check.  That just makes no sense to me.  Your needing "just one more thing" sounds like the DMV.  I am sure Kissimmee is an Indian name but from what I found the origin is uncertain. 

I forgot to thaw some ground beef last night so it is slowly thawing on the stove's low heat.  Also, the new charger (made in China) for my iPod does not work.  Such a hassle these days. 

But..... the sky is just beautiful today with white fluffy clouds to accent the surrounding mountains.  It is cool but we can sit outdoors with jackets on for a while - later when cousins arrive.  Grateful to be here and so grateful friends and  family want to visit. 

Hi, friends,

Today was a recovery day fr me Tomorrow will be better, of that I'm sure.

Y'all, thanks for posting. It really makes life better to hear from my friends.

Love to all,
Ruth Ann

Hi everyone on another cloudy but warm 69 degree morning .  There is rain forecast periodically this morning and afternoon.  Our goal today is to get blood tests done and Pat's x-ray.  We are fasting this morning so will go as soon as we can.  Our son is coming over this morning to help with a few more projects.  Our DIL had dental work done last week and ended up with an infection but is now feeling better.  Yesterday evening we went to the evening meal at the Methodist church we have visited and then attended a Bible study conducted by the minister.  We enjoyed both very much and had an opportunity to meet the people at our dining table.  The people here are very friendly.  It was in the low 80's here yesterday and I sat out on my front porch and read a book for an hour or so and then my neighbor from across the street came over and we visited for awhile.  Very enjoyable.

Ruth Ann, sure hope today is better for you. 

Carol, I have had similar experiences with buying things that just won't work.  I had one thing I had to return to China, not a good thing to have to do, but the refund was more than the postage so went through the hassle.  Now I am careful to see things I buy off the internet come from American shippers in case they don't work. 

Hi, folks,

I'm back. I've been dealing with catching up on several websites since I was off the computer for a while.

Today, I read a really thought provoking quote in the Guideposts - it dealt with what if we awoke this morning with only the things we were thankful for yesterday. I've thought a lot about that today.

Essentially we are snowed in today. We got a couple of inches of ice/sleet, and then 3 inches of snow on top. In Kentucky, during a portion of the day, I-24 was closed from border to border because of the terrible weather up there.

Y'all have a good rest of the day.

Ruth Ann

Hi everyone on a cloudy but nice morning here in South Carolina.  Yesterday afternoon we had a brief period of very heavy rains and severe winds. It cooled off last night and is to only get to 50 degrees this afternoon but no rain in the forecast.  Yesterday as we drove to get the blood tests we saw that spring is starting here as we saw a couple of blooming trees in bloom and a batch of daffodils or jonquils and that the grass several places was very green and some of the trees are starting to bud.   Our son was over last evening and got Pat's big white hand quilted quilt up on the wall.  It is a tough job and there is a little bit more to do today if he can get back over here.  I would like to finish getting the pictures hung or put away as getting tired of seeing them waiting to be taken care of. 

Ruth Ann, I saw on the news the terrible mess they had in Kentucky closing I-24 and the 30 mile backup of cars.  That was a thought provoking quote you told us about. 

We're home--again!  Both of us are SO happy to be home  We left a week ago Sunday, and drove for two days on icy and snow-packed highways   It was a stressful time, as Darrel's brother left a $5 Million estate, and two greedy kids (not kids, really) who want it, want the house, and do not care what happens to their mother.  Julie was so happy to have our support and Darrel's financial advice.  But Don left things in such a manner that there was little Darrel could do to help.  So it's a mess, and likely to be fighting for years.  Sigh......  So sad, to have all that money, and not handle your affairs in a better way at the end.

Beth stayed well and was happy to see me again!  I need to go get her some Mexican food for supper, as she gets so tired of the institutional food, and the revolving menus at the care home.

I got to see my little GGdaughter Chelsea for a while today while her mom was at the chiropractor's.  :thumbsup:  She is a delight.

I missed all of you while we were away, glad to read your posts again.

Pat, have a wonderful time and soak up the sun!  I hope it is warm there; it sure wasn't in South Texas!

TTYL!

Hi, friends,

It's a day for better traffic flow and less ice and snow here in Nashville. It's hard to believe you have springtime already, Larry.

Janet, good to see you here, too. I'm saddened to learn there will be problems in Darrel's brother's family.

For all you who come to browse and not comment, know that God loves each one of us, and I love you, too! :)

Ruth Ann

Hi everyone.  I awoke to a bright sunshine filled day.  It did get down to 33 degrees last night but will warm up during the day.  We went to our Credit Union here and acquired a safe deposit box.  Another item off the check list.   We did go to Bed, Bath and Beyond so Pat could return a towel she had purchased and get some different color towels.  She really dislikes the color our spare bathroom is painted.  We plan on making a quick trip to COSTCO this morning to get a couple of new lamps for our spare bedroom.  I would like to finish putting up pictures on the walls today.  I am sure you are all getting tired of hearing me mention it and I am getting tired of having to do it. 

Janet, glad you are home again.  It is certainly sad when money causes such rifts in a family.  Is Darrel's brother's wife not the mother of the children?  I am a firm believer that children do not inherit until both the parents are gone.  They didn't help earn the money.  It is sad that a will couldn't have been made to avoid all of this disharmony.  Glad Beth got along fine while you were away.  I sure can understand her appreciating having some non-institutional food.  Even a few days in the hospital and one gets very tired of the food.  The last time I was in the hospital in Atlanta they had one menu and it apparently never changed.  UGH! 

Ruth Ann, I tell you the green grass and the flowering tree and the yellow flowers sure looked good.  Maybe the ice and snow will melt away up in your area today. 

John is busy making 2 inch wooden buttons for a friend's knitted project.  They are made of what up here is called Ironwood, other areas this is known as Black Elm.  We have a lot of this wood on our property. 

I have a chore I want to complete here and will be starting shortly then to start a knitted dress for my grand daughter.

Have a great day everyone and God bless.

I have been up since 4:00.  Darrel had a night sweat or a fever, and woke up wringing wet, so he got up.  I was concerned about him, so I got up, too.  He seems to be feeling better now.  I had a good time with the Lord, then called my sister Shirley and we had a good talk and got caught up on each other's lives.  Then I went to the Senior Center because they are having a garage sale today and had fresh cinnamon rolls, and I wanted one!  I picked up several items besides that ( ;)) so now I need to gather up at least an equal number of items to donate.  I don't want a house so stuffed with STUFF that it is a junk yard.  Now I am doing laundry and other household tasks.  Good Saturday!  :)

I really look forward to going to church tomorrow, even though we have to "Spring forward!"  The week just doesn't go as well when I miss church.

Larry--Yes, Julie is the mother of the kids.  Her daughter was nine when she married Don, then Deryk was born to them.  He did adopt the girl, too. (Julie was about 29 and he 25 years older when they married.  He said she was a little OLD for him!)  His finances have always been so convoluted that nobody but him could understand what he was doing.  He put EVERYTHING into an irrevokable trust, and Darrel was a trustee on that, along with Don and a niece who is an attorney.  Then he made a NEW trust with himself as sole trustee.  Shortly before his death, his lawyer called and told us they were attempting to get a vote of the trust committee to appoint a new trustee(s) before Don Died, but they didn't get it done in time.  Then the lawyer took it upon himself to appoint Julie and both the kids as co-trustees without even a vote!  He then sent a paper for Darrel to sign saying he was voting for that change.  Darrel did not and will not sign it!  It is just causing more problems.  I'm sorry--TMI.  It's just on my mind a lot, as I am concerned for Julie.  He had a will, in which he left Julie absolutely NOTHING!  He never treated her like a wife should be treated, not ever.  The will is worthless, because everything is in the trust.  Time will tell, I guess, but Julie is going to have to be really tough to keep those two from squandering it all!

This situation just shows so clearly the things money cannot buy:  happiness, health (not even one more day of life!) peace of mind, harmonious family relationships, respect, love.  Money, when not used according to the Word of God, can become a curse!  Okay, Janet is off her soapbox now.   :-[ :-[

We have a lovely and warm day today, and the sunshine is so welcome!  Makes me want to go out for a walk!  Maybe I will do just that after while!  :)  Who wants to go with me?  We can share about the goodness of the Lord while we walk!

I have some houseplants that really need to be pruned back.  I think I will do that today, too.  I already worked on those in the sunroom/library.

Blessings on each of you today!

Janet

It would be hard to forget, Marilyn.  :D  Everywhere I turn there's a reminder - here, S&F in several topics, the TV news programs....  But thanks for the message.   :thumbsup:

:D   Spring forward ...  Fall back ...
   :thumbsup:

No clock changes in Arizona!  ^-^ 

I am sure that this is boring and repetitive as well - cousins (Dons) just left and wouldn't you know, one of my cousins & wife will be coming for a visit but at least I have two weeks this time.  We met all our neighbors outside a few hours ago as one neighbor next to us was taken away in an ambulance so everyone mentioned all our visitors.  Then, I had to say that some came in by airplane so they did not see all.  Feeling a bit off - Don is taking a serious nap and I am washing bedding. 

Judy:  There is an Ironwood in this state (Arizona) and I wonder if it is the same as what you mentioned. 

Janet:  How greedy can they get?  well, I was shocked and disappointed years ago with the same thing happening but just decided later to give thanks for our life and we did manage by ourselves and with the help of Lord.  It is amazing how some close relatives believe they should inherit every thing.

Every year, a brother calls and tells me he is coming for a visit and every single year his wife makes him cancel.  Once again.   :(  She is afraid of anything different  - a snowy road, you name it.   

Hi everyone on a beautiful Sunday morning here in the south.  We are expecting 73 degrees by 5 pm today.  I will go to church in a few minutes but Pat is not going today.  She wasn't feeling very good yesterday and wants to take it easy today.  We were not successful in getting the lamps at COSTCO as they had sold out but Pat got some food items that will make some quick and delicious dinners for us.  I did reset the clocks this morning but did not forget about the time adjustment. 

Carol, your brother's wife sounds a lot like our former neighbor's wife who would not let her husband out of her site.  She was concerned about him and also afraid to be left alone.  It takes all types of people to make an interesting world.  Enjoy your two week hiatus from company and perhaps get a little relaxation in for yourselves. 

Carol Ironwood here looks like The White Elm that has not been destroyed by disease.  It is very slow growing.  John made some really beautiful buttons out of it, and used an oil to bring out the grain.  I will consider getting him to make some for the sweater I have yarn for.  The ones he made were 2 inch, I will need one inch.....a little more tricky,

The temperature is going up here, the South River is showing signs of thawing.  This coming week we are to be in the plus temperatures.  We have to get out and get out trails made into the bush to the maple trees.  I expect this coming weekend and March break we will be into the maple syrup.  It has taken us 19 years to have John home long enough to actually do this!  It will be a crazy time!  When the sap runs.....so do we!

Wonderful message on discipleship at church today.  We are all to be making disciples of those around us not just the clergy! 

Got to run  :)

What wonderful messages today! May God bless each of you really well.

Janet, I'm so sorry I missed your birthday yesterday. May God grant you many happy, healthy years ahead.

Well, the time change got me. I rested right through church. But listened to a sermon on radio that really inspired me. It's so embarrassing to miss church for such a little reason.

At any rate, y'all have a great rest of the day.

Ruth Ann

Judy:  Run sap run!  How nice after 19 years you can have a project together.  We are going to paint a room this week together.  It doesn't sound like much but the closet plus moving furniture turns it into a project.  Am tired before we start.  Your sweater will be a treasure. 

Janet:  Belated birthday greetings!  I hope you had cake and ice cream!!

Before Don's relatives came, I bought daffodils for color - I like it when they have a $2 bunch of flowers - my kind of a bargain and they are still going strong.  Today was time for making hummingbird nectar - those greedy little piggys!  We are getting a lot of quail now because we bought a regular quail block at Costco.  It will be sad leaving them here when we leave for home. 

At church this morning, a friend came up, hugged me and wished me a happy belated birthday.  I said, "Thanks so much, but my birthday is in June!"  She said she saw it on Facebook.  I have no idea how that happened, it surely wasn't me!  But thanks for thinking of me anyway, Ruth Ann and Carol!  I can celebrate twice and only get one year older!

Abby called soon after we got home from church, to invite us down for lunch.  She said, "And drive that new pickup--I want to drive it!"  So we did.  Had a wonderful meal--T-Bone steaks, baked potatoes, salad, and Cherry cream cheese pie!  Yummy!

We have Connections group tonight and it's almost that time, so I will be getting off here soon.  We have been away so long we are looking forward to fellowshipping with our friends again.

It's my turn to start a new "Thoughts for the Week" but since I'm still on vacation and "iffy" wifi, I'm thinking we'll just keep using this topic for the coming week.

I'm in Pensacola, FL still and we leave here on Wed. morning and then head toward Larry and Pat's for later on in the week.  We enjoyed the services today at Pensacola Christian College.  What a joy it was!


I'll share a prayer I received in my email that blessed my heart...



Heavenward by Scotty Smith
A Prayer for Pondering and Believing the Love of Jesus

I am my beloved's, and his desire is for me. Song of Sol. 7:10 (NIV)

     Dear Lord Jesus, we believe you love us this much, but we don't believe it as much as you intend. Heal us and free us, we pray, for you have made us for yourself and have redeemed us for yourself. Our deepest longings find their origin and fulfillment in you. Our greatest brokenness finds its redemption through you. Our lingering fears and foolishness find their release by you. What a wonderful, merciful Savior you are; and what a woefully inadequate affirmation this is.

     We belong to you, Jesus—not by the merit of our efforts, not by the measure of our sincerity, not by the tears of our repentance, not by the pledge of our faithfulness. We belong to you, because you came to us and gave yourself for us. By your life of perfect obedience, and your death in humble submission, you have paid a price beyond measure, to give us riches beyond calculation—to make us your beloved. Nothing can sever or change our belongingness.

     You desire us, Jesus—not because we show promise, but because you fulfilled every promised God made on our behalf. You desire us, Jesus—not because we are choice, but because we are chosen. You desire us, Jesus—not because of anything in us, but because of everything in you. Nothing can diminish or intensify our beloved-ness. Jesus, this isn't just a game changer; it's an everything changer. We believe; help our unbelief.

     May this all-consuming, heart-transforming, life-liberating good news free us today to live and to love to your glory, Jesus. Take us further up and farther into your heart. So very Amen we pray, in your mercy-full and grace-full name.

Pat, thank you for sharing that prayer.  It was a wonderful to start my day.  :thumbsup:

Things are starting to warm up a little here in the north country.  It should be OK for you to head home after you visit with Larry and Pat!   :D

Hi everyone on an overcast morning but in the 50's.  Pat got up before I did this morning, which is very unusual.  However, I stayed in bed awhile and read the email and the postings since yesterday in the three message boards.  Pat fixed me a nice bowl of fresh pineapple and strawberries, which I am having for my breakfast along with the nutritional drink I try to have almost everyday and an English Muffin.  It was so nice here yesterday that I sat out on my front porch for an hour or so and read.  Pat sat on the patio in back to get some sun at the same time.  We plan on going to Lowe's this morning to look for lamps and so I can return an item.  So it will be a rather laid back day but one never knows what the day has in store.

Judy, have you gathered the maple sap to make the maple syrup with before.  Do you have a lot of maple trees on your farm?

Ruth Ann, it sounds like you needed the rest.

Carol, what is a quail block?  It is just feed held together with a binder of some type?  I remember on the farm we used to buy salt blocks for the cows to lick to replenish their salt when it got very hot. 

Jeanne, glad you are starting to see a little warm up in your area. 

Pat, looking forward to your visit. 

Happy Monday!  I feel better already, for having gone back to the gym again.  I really feel the difference when we don't go, and it was so long this time.   Kristi was happy to have us back, too!

We enjoyed our small group last night, so good to fellowship with Christian friends!

I had a call this morning from a near relative, who is heart-broken over the news that a granddaughter has gone off into a lesbian lifestyle.  The devil is running roughshod over this sin-sick world.  So sad..... :'(
And I just saw on the news that Thailand has had the first "three-way same sex 'marriage.'"  Ugh.  We knew that would be the next step in the downward spiral.

The sun is shining, God's still in his heaven, and He is still in control.  So we still can thank and praise Him, and worship Him always.

Pat, I am envious of your getting to visit our Larry and Pat!  Give them a hug for me, will you?  And have a wonderful visit!

I came back to give you all a praise report!  The winter storms have covered so much of the country lately, with much snow and ice.  Grandson Mark called his Dad to tell him his flight (he is a pilot) was delayed for quite a while, then cleared for take-off, but midway through the flight he knew the plane was really iced up, and he had to make an emergency landing and get it de-iced.  He flies small commuter airplanes, I think 8 passengers, and he was relieved nobody panicked.  It took well over 100 gallons of de-icer to do the job, then he took off and completed the trip okay.  He told his Dad that he could feel the presence of the Holy Spirit guiding him and protecting the plane and occupants the whole time.  Praise God for his parents raising him in the church!!  God is SO good--all the time!  Never doubt that your prayers for your family reap a harvest of blessings!

Pat:  Pensacola is such a nice area of Florida - we have only driven through but did see a couple who moved there from Colorado.  Thank you for devotions!  Safe travels.

Larry:  A quail block is indeed a block of seeds and we are seeing a lot more quail but any bird is right in there as well.   In the mountains, we knew a woman who put out salt blocks to attract moose and did we ever see a lot of moose. That was the bible study that just fell apart whenever the moose would walk close to the cabin and we would all get up and take pictures - everyone had good laughs over it. 

Nope, off to the big box store for a few things.  Just so tiring to walk around there anymore. 

I have a two weeks of being very busy with Appointments for Keith, 1 lab for me and 1 Vet for Bebe, but the rest involve Keith's eye surgery  for his cataract. i would appreciate it is y'all would keep him in your prayers.

Had a lovely day today here in Pensacola.

Went to an alternative medicine doctor first and both Paul and I were checked over and my, oh my!  How they seemed to KNOW our bodies!!!

Then we crossed the inland waterway and went to Navarre Beach and drove many miles alond the outer long beach leaving Navarre behind us and entered Pensacola Beach.  It was overcast but warm and windy. 

Tomorrow is our last day and we leave on Wednesday morning.

It will be sad.

Yes, Janet, I'll give Larry and Pat both a hug for you.  :)

 :)  Hi to all.  You will notice that it is very early in the morning and I have had an upset stomach since just after dinner time. and I don't feel like sleeping but will try very soon.  It is 3-45 am and I just thought it was about time that I got back onto C. P.  I have not read very many post's but will try to.  :thumbsup:   Noreen has two app. for cataract surgery coming up.  She has found out that she has one in each eye so the first surgery is on the 26th of this month then the next one is on the16th of April but we still do not have a date for her knee and we pray that the infection has completely gone.  So we please ask that you all could please pray for Noreen and myself for strength during these trying times.  God's richest blessing's to you all.  Have a wonderful week.   Gordon and Noreen.

:cp:  :rocker:  :bananadance:

Pat, by the time you get back to Guelph, spring should be pretty well on the way.  Here in the Adirondacks we got up to 40⁰F (5⁰C) yesterday and it looks like more of the same for another week.  :thumbsup:  Of course, it's still back down below freezing overnight, but sooner or later that will change, too.   :)  The snowpack is melting very slowly, which is good and helps avoid flooding.

Oh, that will be sooooo good, Jeanne to see our snow in Guelph melted.  I surely hope that's soon.

Hi Gord!

I'm so sorry about Noreen's health problems.  I'm happy that the cataract surgery is now a lot easier to get through than what it was like when our parents went through it.

I will continue to pray for you both.

 I am praying for your requests, Marilyn.

Hi everyone.  I am sitting here at the computer and eating my lunch.  It is another sunny and warm day here.  It has been a very busy morning as had to make another trip to Lowe's, Office Depot to get Pat a new mouse for your desktop and then stop by the library to drop off two books I had checked out.  I just put them in the outside return box and didn't have to go inside.  Our son is going to drive me over to Atlanta next Wednesday morning for an 11:30 appointment at Piedmont Hospital as there is a problem with one of the wires going into my heart from the pacemaker.  They will do a fluroscope and then at 12:30 I will have the pacemaker checked , adjusted as might be needed, and see a doctor if the check or test in the morning indicate such is needed.  Pat will stay here in case Scott's wife should need help and we will drive back after the afternoon appointment.

 :coffee: after going to the gym.  We sure are going to miss the gym after we get home.  We can always walk. 

Larry:  How far is it to your larger hospital?  Perhaps they have a shuttle you can catch?  I don't know if that is possible or not but it is just great that your son is available and you can help him as well.  The reason I thought of a shuttle is that a friend has company coming into the Phoenix airport and she asked the relative to take the shuttle to Tucson.  None of us like the Phoenix maze to pick up someone from that airport. 

We need to put our grubby clothes on because there is a room all taped and ready for us to paint this morning.  There is fresh nectar made for the hummingbirds so all is peaceful outside.  A genealogy lecture this afternoon.  Then, we have to pick out paint for our trim on the home house in Colorado - it is brick but the trim and roof were damaged in the hail storm after we left.  New roof went up right away - it was only two years old from the former hail storm (which are getting stronger). 

Cataract surgery is really getting fast - we know someone who does the surgery in less than 10 minutes per eye and it is perfect when finished. 

Hi, friends,

It's good to be here again. I read a wonderful devotional message in email, and thought I would pass along part of it:

"Faith makes us journey like Abraham, lie down like Isaac, sail like Paul, cook like Martha, worship like Mary, write like John, fish like Peter, preach like Stephen, endure abuse, pain and afflictions like countless martyrs.  Author: Jorge De Barros"

I enjoyed rereading that sentence several times. I hope you like it.

May God bless each one of us with his presence today.

Ruth Ann

Hi everyone on another very beautiful morning.  It is already 64 degrees and suppose to get up to 84 this afternoon about 5 pm.  Our son will be over today to help with some projects we would like to get done before Pat and Paul visit us tomorrow.  This evening we will go to the church for the Wednesday night dinner and the Bible study that follows. 

Carol, there really isn't good transportation from Altanta to North Augusta that I am aware of.  Pat is staying here next Wednesday to be available to our DIL, who may come and spend the day here while we are in Atlanta.  I should be able to get a transport chair that my son can push to get me around in the medical buildings at the hospital if it becomes too much to walk.  I am very familiar with the medical buildings at the hospital as have been there many times over the years as well as the hospital as this is where Stacey usually would be treated.    Sure glad you were able to get your new roof so quickly. 

Ruth Ann, thanks for sharing the devotional thought. 

I didn't even turn my computer on yesterday! :o  And I'm late today because I have been quite ill.  I don't know what happened, but my balance was a little off yesterday, and then after lunch I got really sick with diarrhea, stomach cramps and head ache.  I spent the afternoon in bed, got up for an hour or so, then had another bout of diarrhea along with vomiting.  I was so thankful Darrel was with me, for I surely would have passed out without his support.  After he got me to the bed again, I did pass out and probably fell asleep while out as I didn't wake for two hours.  I just got home from my chiropractor and am feeling quite a lot better already.  Ugh...TMI....sorry.  :-[

Larry, I hope all goes well with your appointments.  So glad you are near your son now!

Carol, you guys are always making upgrades and repairs.  It never seems to end, does it?  We are needing to do some of that around here, too.

Pat, glad you had a good "going over" and hope both you and Paul learned ways to become healthier and pain free!  Have a great visit with Larry and Pat!

Marilyn, I know that cataract surgery has become routine, and really nothing to worry about, as long as you have a skilled doctor for Keith.  But I also know "there's no such thing as MINOR suregery, when it's YOUR (or a loved one's) body!   ;)  I'm sure he will be just fine.  Both Darrel and I have had it, and so many others I know, too.

My head is still hurting, and looking at this monitor isn't helping. So I will see you al later!

Ruth Ann, thank you for sharing those inspirational words today!

Janet, I'm so sorry you go whopped with whatever it was!   :(  Hope it's all gone by now.

The snow banks have shrunk quite a bit - I can now see the cars going by on the road in front of my house.  ;) This weekend we may get more snow - or mixed snow and rain - or rain.  Guess I'll know by Monday afternoon.   ;D

Well, here we are ready for bed in the Super 8 in Augusta, Georgia and Larry and Pat are about 7 miles away in North Augusta, South Carolina!  So, we're very close!!!

I so agree with you, Janet that "there's no such thing as MINOR suregery, when it's YOUR (or a loved one's) body!"  I've found that out on numerous occasions.

Hi everyone on a nice day.  It is already in the 60s.  For the last several weeks it has rained on trash day so hadn't put my moving boxes out to be picked up.  However, this morning I got all the cardboard to the street as well as the trash can.  A few minutes ago, as I was sitting at my desk I glanced out the window and saw some of the boxes blowing down the street.  I rushed out to capture them and while I was picking them up a nice man in stopped and got out of his pickup and helped me gather them again and we put the trash can on top of them.  I just put some small ones in the trash can.  My garage looks a lot better after getting the boxes all out of there.  We are expecting Pat and Paul to arrive probably in the next hour to 90 minutes and so looking forward to our time of visiting together.  Since my time is limited this morning I will limit any comments today as should have more time tomorrow.

Janet, sounds like you caught a bit of the flu.  Hope it doesn't linger for you. 

Larry hope you have a good time with Pat and Paul.

Well, I'm back, and feeling more like myself now.  After 2 nights and two and a half days in bed, I should!  I finally got up at 3 this morning, spent about 3 hours sorting and throwing away accumulated mail (my worst housekeeping job) and then went back to bed for an hour to get warm again.  we even went back to the gym, but I was careful not to overdo it today.

Beth called, but I couldn't understand what she was trying to tell me, beyond "I want...." so I went to see her.  She wanted Mexican food!  So I picked up some for her, some for Dr. Saxon, and a chocolate milkshake for my sweet 98 year-old friend Maxine, who loves chocolate!

I think I just might take a little nap this afternoon, anyway.  ;)

Judy, I don't think there is  any doubt that Larry and Pat will enjoy Pat and Paul's visit.  I'm envious!  But so happy they are able to get together!  :)

I don't know if that was a flu bug or food poisoning, but it sure did pack a wallop!  Hope it never happens again!

Hi, friends,

I have a special praise - someone I dearly love had a health test that disproved an initial diagnosis of possible cancer. Thanks be to God!

I've been out and about today, so am just about ready to "rest on my laurels" tonight.  ::)

We are expecting mild temps tomorrow and pouring down rain. There were a few showers while I was out this afternoon.

May our Lord be praised today.

Ruth Ann

That is wonderful and miraculous news - a clear diagnosis!  Sleep well on this update from your friend.

our class for the iPhone went alright today - we have the oldest model and would not have one except our daughter has to update for her new tech job.  This lesson was all about the main things that are not too different from the iPad (Apple ware) that I received from the family for a big birthday gift.  All these things have brought me angst and joy being careful not to get too excited over technology and trying to use it for the good I have been looking at a bible study several times a week.  Otherwise, to download books, peek into some social stuff and looking at the news because we cut back to basic t.v. several years ago.

Janet:  Good news that you are feeling better.  You always have a lot on your plate.   

Hi everyone on a cloudy Friday morning with rain predicted on and off today.  We are having a great time with Pat and Paul.  They got here about noon yesterday and we decided to got to Cheddars for our main meal of the day and then had a light dinner.  Lots of good conversation.  Pat fixed a crockpot breakfast recipe that cooked all night long and really smells good this morning.  So far I am the only one up for the day.  They will be headed home, by way of a stop off in Columbia to visit a friend, later today.  As far as I know nothing else on my schedule for today other than to watch some good college basketball games this afternoon and evening.  Our son and DIL are both battling a bout with the flu.  I did get rid of the cardboard boxes late yesterday afternoon without them blowing all over the neighborhood. 

Janet, nice to read that you were feeling much better yesterday and wise not to over-exert at the gym.

Ruth Ann, what good news for your friend to learn that there was no cancer.  We are suppose to get some rain but I don't think a lot, just rain at different times of the day and night.  Good day to stay inside. 

Carol, there is a lot of commonality between the iPad and the iPhone.  Glad you enjoyed your class. 

Yesterday was an "off" day for me.  Over Wednesday night I didn't get to sleep at all - until after I had my breakfast at about 6:30 a.m.  :o  From then on it was one "nap" after another all day.  Last night was much better so maybe today I'll be able to stay awake.   :D

The snow banks are melting and I can finally see the cars that pass in front of my house.  Tomorrow morning we will be getting some rain - possibly starting as freezing rain but then it's supposed to warm up to around 40^oF and be all rain.  That will likely bring some flooding and then, of course it freezes overnight when the temperatures fall into the 20's.  Normal for this area at this time of year, of course.   ;) 

Aren't those J nights rough?  I have had a couple of those this week as well.  They really set you off your rhythm. 

We are expecting snow rain and ice today and tomorrow.  Here I thought spring was on its way!

John is now off till the 23rd.  March break!  Have a great day everyone.

Hi, friends,

I, too, had a J night last night. So, I've felt kind of quiet today. :)

Y'all have a wonderful rest of the day.

Ruth Ann

I believe there is a strong connection between so many people feeling "off" and having trouble sleeping, and the blasted time change!  It really messes us up!

Larry, glad you are enjoying your company; never doubted you would!

Darrel and I have made a circle today from here to Dodge City to Garden City and back here again.  All related to getting the 5th wheel hitch for the new pickup and other items similar in nature.  So far, he is quite satisfied with the handling and the mileage the pickup is getting.  But, boy!  can a person spend a bundle in a hurry on vehicle stuff!  :o

Tomorrow is my monthly painting day, and I want to get the background started on my project, so won't stay on here long.  I want to get to bed early, too, so I won't be dragging tomorrow.  (I hope!)
  Pat and Paul---stay safe on the highways!!  8) 

You know Janet you have something there, it has been since the time change that I have had problems sleeping.  I am sitting here yawning, will go to bed and eyes will pop open!   At this point I am feeling it is better to get up and work on the 'puter!

Have a great night folks and "see" you later.

At least for me, the time change has nothing to do with my sleep patterns.   ;)  It is an ongoing situation, a couple of hours sleeping, an hour or so awake with restless legs, a couple more hours sleep, another awake period.... and with a completely sleepless night every now and then.   Just something I've come to accept, and my doctor's only response was "It will be worse when you're 100."   :)

Hi everyone.  We had a very rainy night and early morning and it is cloudy today but suppose to get up to 74.  I had a very busy morning as went to Walmart to get Pat a couple of prescriptions and also to get a 65 inch smart TV for our living area.  The 47 inch one we have just wasn't big enough for the space.  I wasn't sure it would fit in my PT Cruiser but by moving the driver seat all the way up and putting the other seats down it did go in.  If I had been any larger I wouldn't have been able to fit behind the wheel and drive.  The Walmart manager said if it wouldn't fit in my car he would put it in his pickup truck and follow me home.  Needless to say I was very impressed.  They have the nicest employees in this new Walmart.  Our son will be over tomorrow morning to get it set up and move the other one into my office.  It has a wide base so it is going to have to sit on the piano.  I will stay in the rest of the day and watch some more college basketball games.   

Happy to say I haven't had any trouble sleeping due to the time change that some of you have experienced  Jeanne, it sounds like your doctor could have kept that news about it getting worse when you are older as that was no help at all. 

Janet, what kind of truck did Darrel get?   Hope you rested well last night so you could really enjoy your painting day today.

     

Darn!  Lost my nearly completed message!  Hate when that happens!

I was replying to Larry:  The new pickup is a Ford, diesel, 4 WD, 4 door, Platinum series.  It's a beauty and has all the bells and whistles.  We are learning how to find the various stuff on the dash, etc.  I drove it for the first time yesterday, and it handles really nicely.  It is white, with black interior, which we don't like, but all the ones in the Platinum series are black interiors.  Not good for the hot sun and high winds of Kansas.  Oh!  It even has air conditioned seats!  And heated, of course--and heated steering wheel!  What don't they think of?  ::)  It's a 2014 model, looks like new, only 24,015 miles on it!

And yes, thanks, I did sleep well last night, but woke in time to get to Lakin and ride the rest of the  way with my friend Winona.  I learned today that I have gained a reputation in that group--of being a bird painter!  That surprised me, but as I thought about it, I have painted a number of gifts for our gift exchanges with birds on them, and I really do enjoy painting birds.  The project we did today is a birdhouse hanging on a square post, with a water faucet sticking out of the birdhouse, and a cup hanging on a nail below the faucet.  Then there is a little bird standing on top of the faucet.  It had lots of detailed leaves, which I do not enjoy painting, so I employed some new techniques and did mine differently.  It looks like a leafy area of shadows, all mottled.  I got it all finished except the cup.  In the example, the cup was yellow, and that was the thing you saw first.  I wanted to see the bird.  Anyway, I had changed all the other colors, so I'm going to paint a red enamelware cup.  If I don't like it, I will change it!  One of the gals asked me, jokingly, if I'd like to paint her bird.  So I did, and she loved it! And now, Larry, I hope you aren't sorry you asked!

Oh yeah!  In our Ways and Means drawing, I won five hand painted porcelain eggs done by one of our gals, in a hand-painted wooden basket--and she even included a chocolate Easter rabbit!  I was so pleased, I collect hand painted eggs and really was hoping to win those!

And now I want to get to bed early, also need to call Abby.  So ttyl!

Time to start a new "Thoughts".

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