Getting Back to Basics!

After two weeks of eating so much junk, I have decided to concentrate on getting healthy.  I would say that this is a "New Year's Resolution" but I don't believe in them since I have difficulty keeping them.

I looked at my food diary for the past couple of weeks and there it WASN'T: veggies and fruits.  There were alot of sweets and carbs (and not the right kind).  No wonder I felt lethargic and useless.  Wayne's blood pressure has been too high--too much salt.  I know that I have had far too much too.

When we visited Phyllis and Kit last week, they said that they bought them a Vitamix. They wanted to get away from processed foods.  Just what I want to do!  It has been a great benefit to their health and also weight.  Yes, I need to lose a few pounds but more important to that is my health and energy.  Both lately haven't been that great.  I am concerned about Wayne's blood pressure too.

So, I researched Vitamix and found that it is definitely worth the extra money from all the reviews!  It has a real motor that really holds up and there is a feature that will make hot soup.  The friction the motor causes the blades "heats" up the soup in the blender jar.  Sweet! 

Alison paid off her loan from me and so, we took part of that and marched off to Costco.  We stood there listening to the sales pitch show (knowing full well that we would buy it) and it actually was helpful.  I don't need to use milk for my smoothies and they taste wonderful.  Even with kale and spinach added!  What a great way to eat my veggies--I am hoping that the grandkids will agree.

There was a gal there who said she bought hers 40 years ago and it is still going strong! Looks like I will need to put it in the will :)

Wayne was sold as well.  I think he knows that if we keep healthy then we will not need to put out money for doctor visits, etc.  By not buying the processed foods, we save too!  No, I am not going cold turkey on processed foods but I aim to cut my consumption by at least 50%.

Day one, today!  Here is my Vitamix full of kale, spinach, orange, carrots, pineapple, kiwi, banana, apple and ice.  Yes, I didn't have to cut up the orange or kiwi!  It takes seconds to grind it all up, too! This baby is powerful!

Before.....                                                After a few seconds....







           

The smoothie was great!  Sweet but tasty!  I gave Wayne some and he actually drank all of it--so, I know it was good.  We had an egg prepared for the protein in our breakfast and I was full!

 

I went for a walk and came home to make lunch--Harvest Cheddar Soup, potatoes, celery, onion, low salt chicken broth, seasonings and cheddar..  It was yummo!  It heated up nice and hot in the Vitamix and it was smooth as silk!  I think next time I will add broccoli after it is done. 

 

Yes, I am loving this!  Tonight, I am having salmon with a dill sauce.  The dill sauce I will do in the Vitamix and also some Italian Dressing.  Wayne will have chicken since he hates fish.  There are so many recipes I can't wait to try in the nice thick cookbook that comes with it!  I want to try making my own mayo, ketchup, marinades, dressings, etc.  And I love soup but don't like the sodium--there are so many yummy recipes in here for soups.  Even bread!  There is so much stuff I need to try!!

 

And to think, I am finally getting my veggies!

Christmas Eve Night

 

 

On Christmas Eve night, we were invited to Wayne's former in-law's family gathering.  Yes, it sounds funny but he has been a part of their family for a very long time and since the divorce, they have insisted that he be part of the family still.  Debi, his ex-wife, divorced the family the first year that we spent time with them.  This year, Aunt Phyllis asked that Wayne be Santa.  At first, we hesitated because we didn't want to infringe on Scott's time with the family.  Last year, Scott was ill and didn't make it.  It was the year that we were there and also Leslea.  I couldn't help but think it was because we were there that he didn't come.

The past year, Scott and Phyllis have been talking and this year she told him that we would be there.  She reassured us that he was good about it and even looking forward to it.  So, with that we traveled to Scappose with hope in our heart but trying not to get too excited in case of a letdown.  On Christmas Eve when Alison was here, our lawyer called and told us that Debi was finally served papers the Wednesday before.  Wayne is taking her to court to adjust the spousal support--it has been ten years and with him unemployed, we need the money.  We started this process the first part of November and Debi has refused to come to the door when the servers come with the papers.  So unfortunately she gets this the week before Christmas but that is her own fault, she knew this was going to happen.

Our fear was that she would show up at the family gathering. Aunt Phyllis told me that Debi would be asked to leave and that she would not allow her to do any more pain to the family.  I guess she hurt them all pretty deeply with a scathing email when she "divorced" them.

Well, she didn't show up.  Thank You, LORD!  We had an awesome time meeting Scott's girlfriend, Katie, and with the rest of the family.  Wayne was the Santa and was so happy to be with Scott.  It has been a long time since I saw him so happy (Leslea's wedding was last time).  We had a "White Elephant" gift exchange.  Scott received "Stompez slippers" (just like Grace's) and tried to pawn them on everyone.  He ended up wearing them all over.  Kit, Aunt Phyllis' hubby, wore one and Scott wore the other for awhile--it was obvious that the alcohol was flowing freely.

 

We brought gifts for Scott and Katie that "Santa" gave them.  I got a nice candle centerpiece for Katie. The past years when I hoped and prayed that Scott would show up on Christmas, I bought a Hallmark motorcycle ornament every year.  So, this night, I wrapped them up and had "Santa" give it to him.  Wayne and I were outside when Scott finally opened his gift.  He came outside with a big grin and hugged his Dad.  "Wow, how did you do that?" he asked.  "The ornaments are awesome, there is one of the bike I have now!"  That year was 2006.  This obviously was a "God thing" because I almost didn't bring them but throughout the morning, I was reminded over and over about them.  I told Scott about me buying them every year for him.  No, I didn't get a hug.  I understand that it is far too soon.  I want it to be genuine.  Right now, he is still influenced by his mom.  I have time, I will wait.  The most important relationship is Wayne and him now.

 

When we left, Wayne and Scott hugged.  I deliberately was carrying a big box just so Scott didn't feel that he had to hug me.  It worked.

Thank You, Oh LORD for a Christmas to remember and I pray that it is a beginning step in the healing process and that 2013 brings Scott and Wayne closer together.

Christmas Eve Morning

Christmas Eve means family to me.  Alison and Larry come over with the kids.  Hunter and Grace are always in pajamas.  We have breakfast then Santa comes aka Wayne.  Toward the end of breakfast, he excuses himself and goes into the bedroom and changes into a Santa outfit.  The outfit is the same one that we used to visit our Special Olympics guys and gals on Christmas.  I miss doing that--we will have to figure out how to do it the week before Christmas for them--they loved it.

 









Larry laying claim to Hunter's gift :)

Grace & her Stompers

Grace & Boo

Wayne will put on the outfit and go out our bedroom patio doors across the back yard to the livingroom patio door.  This time when he came in, Hunter yelled, "I know it's you, Gramps!"  Of course Wayne and Grace debated that.  There is always one gift in Santa's bag to give to each child.  Something they have really wanted.  This time was no exception.  Santa gave Grace "just what I wanted!" according to her--a soft puppy named "Boo".  This is something she pointed out to me at the mall, something she really really wanted.  Of course, I had to get it. 

Hunter got a K-nex building set which Larry loved and played with while the kids opened up the rest of their gifts.  When Santa said goodbye, our little doubting Thomas (Hunter Thomas that is) yelled "Don't forget to go to Oregon City, we live there!"

I love watching everyone open their gifts.  I don't need gifts, it is a great gift to watch others.  Grace after opening several gifts stated that this was the best holiday ever!





Grace loved her Stompez slippers, another gift that she really really wanted.  Alison liked the handmade rag rug I made for her.

 

Grace also received glitter pens which she immediately set out to make a masterpiece on the livingroom floor.  She made a glitter owl by doing half and then folding it over to make the other half--where does she get these cool ideas?

 

Hunter and Papa--Hunter climbing into Santa's bag while Papa continues to play.

Even Misha got a gift.  I had a chewy bone under the tree unwrapped for her.  When they all got there, Misha found her gift and hid it under the table to make sure that no one takes it away.  Any time one of the cats got near she growled and put her paw on the bone.  I got a picture of her responding to Olivia the cat when she got far to close to her on the couch.

I was thrilled that Larry and Alison and the kids stayed for a long time instead of leaving after opening up gifts.  Hunter got to put Legos together, Larry made some structure, Grace did several paintings, Wayne got to interact with them and I got to enjoy all of their company!  What a great Chirstmas.  Hopefully next year, Leslea, Bob and Scott and Katie will be here too.  I can only hope.

Visiting Relatives

Today was the day that we visit Wayne's in-laws.  They have know him since he was a teenager and they adore him.  When the divorce happened, his ex-wife, Debi, divorced her own family too.  She demanded that they have no more to do with Wayne but the family members refused her request.

So, we got in the car and went to visit his previous father-in-law and mother-in-law in St. Helens.  It is a long drive but worth it.  Les, his father-in-law, was there alone. Seems his wife, Pat, went out on a pre-planned lunch with a friend.  No problem, we were there an hour and half and Les talked most of it.  I always feel a little odd not knowing what to say but Les was glad to hog the conversation and I was happy to let him.

After that we went to lunch and decided to stop by and see Aunt Fish (one of the exwife's sisters).  Her real name is Phyllis but the nieces and nephews have always called her Aunt Fish.  I do enjoy her husband, Kit and her company.  I loved them the instant that I met them.  As awkward as it might have been, they have always made me welcome.

Phyllis was at work at Moonstruck Chocolate and Kit was alone folding laundry.  We were hoping to catch Phyllis but it wasn't in the cards so, we enjoyed our time with Kit.

After awhile, Forrest and Marvin, a friend came to the door.  Forrest is married to Linda, Phyllis's and Debi's sister.  I love Forrest's sense of humor.  He reminds me of that character "Vern" that was on a commericial years ago.  Linda has always been nice to me too.  However, I always guard my words whenever I am around all of them. I hope that one of these days, my fears of saying something wrong will go away, but for now, it is the way things are.

Forrest gave me a big hug and said "No matter what any on that other side says, I love ya, Dena!"  I had to laugh, the other is Debi.  I appreciated the effort to take away the uncomfortableness that I still have.

He introduced Marvin to us. Marvin looks like a Santa motorcycle guy.  Kit was saying that this is Scott and Leslea's dad and wife when Forrest broke in and said "Yeah, that other one divorced all of us!"  Gotta hand it to Forrest, honest as the day is long-but I love that.

So, I sat there watching these four men "shoot the bull".  I held back the laughter, they were quite entertaining.  So different from a group of women talking! 

I was so glad that we made the rounds today with the family.  I enjoyed the gift of conversation!  Listening to Les talking happy for someone to listen to him.  Listening to these four guys just shooting the bull and laughing.  Sometimes there is joy is just sitting there and listening.

Blah day

For some reason, I have the "I don't want to" blah type of day.  Maybe it is post traumatic event syndrome kicking in.  Maybe pre-Christmas stress let down, maybe too much sugar, it could be alot of things.  I wish I had a whole day with energy to stop and deep clean my house.  Seems every time I start, I have to stop.  I am washing the same dishes and cleaning the same stuff every hour--ugh!  A clean house seems to always help pick me up if the grandkids aren't around.

However, tonight is Miss Grace's Christmas program which we are both looking forward to!

This morning, we picked up and dropped off Hunter.  Mrs. Rogers had a nice present and card for Wayne for volunteering his time.  She told us how much the kids love him.  When Wayne gets home, he can't wait to tell me which child he helped.  When he is gone, he is missed and that makes him feel needed and loved.  This unemployment is hard and since he is 61 years old, his chances are poor.  That doesn't help his mood but he hangs in there.  He loves having the kids over.  Hunter and him are putting together a big Lego helicopter.  Grace lets him help her read and do some crafts. 

He has been a great help with the kids since I have been trying to get over this sinus crud.  I am getting used to him being around.  I still get to have my "me" time so, life is good.

Okay, time to get my energy up and go and enjoy seeing my little Grace sing her "secret songs".  She won't tell us what they are but she has been singing bits and pieces here and there. :)

Grace's First Preschool Christmas Program

Alison & Grace

Nothing like going to your grand-daughter's Preschool Christmas Program to get you out of a funk!  Wayne and I got there real early but not early enough--the church was two-thirds full!  Sigh, but we sat down in a pew and saved seats for Alison, Hunter, Grace, Annie and Lonnie.  It wasn't long before Alison and the kids came.  Hunter was a little hyper--he was definitely excited about his little sister singing!  Grace was sitting up front with her buds.  She looked so grown up and cute as a doll.

When it was time to sing, she was the first one on stage--ready to get going!  They sung three songs that were a secret from all of us.  I thoroughly enjoyed hearing the different voices and watching them sing!

When they were done, they all went to their parents in the audience.  Grace ran to the pew where Mama was and said, "Now you know the secret songs!" and had a big smile on her face.  She was pretty good sitting and watching the other three groups of kids sing.

Then it was time for the Christmas Story.  She joined her brother up front and unfortunately so did all the kids in the audience.  Logan, Hunter's best friend, was there too.  Seemed Hunter and Logan had other plans besides listening to the pastor talk.  They are kids after all.  A few minutes after the story started, Grace broke away from the pack and starting walking down the aisle--she wasn't happy.

 

When she got to the pew, she starting crying, "They didn't save me a 'pot!" Grace doesn't say her "s" but the folks in the pew in front and in back of us thought she was so precious.  Mama whisked her away until she settled down.  They came back and Grace sat on my lap.  She repeated that they didn't save me a 'pot.  I told her next time that I would go up there and make sure that she gets her spot...period!  She was happy with that and I told her that soon we will go downstairs and get some cake.  Suddenly the world was great again.  The prospect of chocolate can do that to any girl no matter how old they are!

Downstairs there wasn't cake but cookies, but no problem, we were still happy.  We talked Grace into going up to Santa since he was going to give out presents.  Otherwise, Grace didn't want anything to do with him!

 Hunter went up to Santa too!  Last year, he wouldn't.  And Hunter had a long wish list to share with Santa and was quite serious about making sure Santa understood.

 

I am so glad that we were able to be a part of our Grand-daughter's first preschool Christmas program!  It is pure joy watching both Grace and Hunter grow--a year-round Christmas present!

A Gift from My Cousin, Pam

My Mom & Aunt Lucy infront of 16 Lindal St.

Today I received an email with a link to a photo book.  My cousin, Pam, had sent it to me.  In September, my mom visited my Aunt Lucy (Pam's mom) in England.  The link had several photos of Mom and her sister, Lucy.

For months, my Mom had been worried about her sister.  I kept telling her to just go and visit Lucy.  Mom would bring up all sorts of excuses and finally with Pam's help, we convinced her to go.

Mom enjoyed her stay with Lucy but knows that Lucy will be going home soon.  My dear Aunt has dementia and by the looks of the pictures has lost a lot of weight.  The dementia is bothering Mom as well as me.

I remember visiting Aunt Lucy in England at my other cousin's (Elaine) house.  It was fun sitting in the kitchen and playing a game similar to Jeopardy but with music.  Bill, Elaine's hubby would ask Aunt Lucy if she recognized the classical music that he would play, who wrote it and when.  Lucy was so sharp even in her 70s she got them right 95% of the time.

Aunt Lucy in Arnside at the Retirement Home

When she visited me here in Oregon, she would read some of my books while I was at work.  When I came home, she would inform me of the contents of the books she read and we had many conversations on different subjects in my books. 

When she was 65 years old, she earned a degree in nursing at Manchester University.  She loved being amongst the younger students and was a kick to be with.

Now at 87, she has dementia and that is startling to me.  I will always remember the Aunt Lucy that visited me here, the way she was when I visited in England and growing up with her as my favorite aunt. Her dementia is getting worse and it is sad to know that she has forgotten so much.

 

Blue Monday

Today was the first day back to school since the horrid massacre of last week in Connecticut.
Wayne and I took Hunter to school along with Grace in tow for preschool.  Wayne and I both hugged both kids a little more today than in the past.  I noticed alot of the parents and grandparents did the same.  The same thing happened at preschool with Grace.

When I went to pick up Hunter, I couldn't help but notice the somber feeling around the school.  There were a handful of parents and grandparents coming to wait on their little ones to get out of school.  Each one of us checked each other out just in case we were not supposed to be there.  We are all in a high alert mode, all with our cellphones out--all ready.

When Hunter was allowed to leave his line and run to me, I hugged him and kissed him on the head and we walked to the car.  Before I left, I received an email notifying me and all parents that they did a lock down today.  I was glad that Wayne didn't volunteer today--I think it would have been hard on him, he is very protective of the Kindergarteners that he helps weekly.

When I started putting Hunter in the car seat, Hunter shared that somewhere far away, twenty kids his age were killed by a man who had something wrong in his brain.  I wasn't ready for that and choked back the tears.  The teachers had talked to them about what happened.  Hunter looked in my eyes and said, "Don't worry, Nana, he is dead--he was shot in the face and died." 

As much as we want to shelter our little ones, they do find out.  All  I can do is cover both Hunter and Grace with my prayers and trust in the LORD for their safety.  There are 20 angels in heaven this Christmas and 20 grieving families--LORD comfort them.

The Gift of Great Neighbors

Last night I kept waking up and thoughts of those innocent children grabbed me.  I couldn't bear to imagine them in that school and ended up pushing the thoughts aside and falling back to sleep.

This morning, I couldn't take it anymore--no more news shows.  I can't handle this and am not demeaning their deaths.  I just can't emotionally handle it anymore.  I turned on Christmas songs and Christmas movies instead.  It may be selfish but I  know each one of those little ones is with the LORD and those they left behind are being comforted by Him and others.  I don't care any less but I will not let the devil rob me of this day or any other days.  One thing that I have learned in the last couple of days is that each day is a gift.  We can choose to ignore the gift and lose the blessing or we can embrace the gift and be blessed by it.  I do feel pain for those parents and grandparents and can't imagine what they are going through.  They are in my prayers.

Yesterday, I received a gift and enjoyed the blessing for a short while despite the horrid events of the day.  Our neighbor, Lynn (a guy) rang our doorbell.  We were surprised to see him standing there.

Lynn had major heart surgery in the summer.  Wayne and him had become great friends by being friendly across the street.  Always greeting Wayne or me.  Then we saw him with a "heart pillow".  I recognized it right away since Gary went through open heart surgery years before.  I brought over a big fruit basket for his wife and him as a way to say we were concerned.  Wayne tried to mow his lawn.  Unfortunately every time he was going to, Lynn's son beat us to it. 

Our next door neighbor, Clair, has a lung problem and gets winded when he exerts himself even a little bit. All spring and summer, Wayne has been mowing his lawn when he mows ours--never excepting anything in return.

In the fall, I was painting the trim and couldn't reach the top crown of the garage.  I was up on the roof trying to figure out how to paint that part when Lynn came out and yelled over.  "That's the way...have her do all the work!" he was kidding of course.  I yelled back that Wayne still has vertigo and can't climb up here and that I am afraid of heights but can't figure out how to do the highest part."  Lynn's son was there and before I knew it, he was running across the street.  "I'll do it for you!" he yelled.  I was so elated that he would do that and he did!  I got off the ladder shaking because after all, I am afraid of heights!  I shook for thirty minutes after that.  Clair's wife, Patsy, came to the door with some hot homemade muffins to thank Wayne for mowing all those times!

The trim was done but now I had to finish a second coat.  That is when Wayne and I went for a walk and I fell and had my concussion.  The second coat would have to wait.  The week after that, Clair volunteered his son for the second coat painting.  We paid him because he was out of work for almost a year and we knew he needed it.  He thanked us.  Several weeks later when Wayne's knee had a torn ligament and he was hobbling to the mailbox, we got a nice surprise.  It seemed that Clair's son was visiting them.  I happened to look out my art room window and saw Clair's son mowing our lawn!  It definitely needed it and I was going to get to it but this was awesome!  We both went out and he stopped the mower--"neighbors help each other!" he said, smiled and then went back to mowing.

Thank You LORD for the gift of wonderful neighbors! 

Back to my first story--Lynn at the door.  Lynn stood there and asked Wayne and me if we would want some fresh salmon that he just caught, cleaned, cut into steaks!!  Now, Wayne doesn't eat fish and anytime I can get fish or any seafood (minus clams and scallops--I am allergic) I go for it!  I grabbed the bag and thanked Lynn a million times (okay maybe a few) and went inside and made five just right sized salmon steaks for me.  I am gonna have one Sunday when I hope my taste buds are up to it since I have had the flu.

I am appreciative of my two neighbors.  It wasn't always that way but time has brought us together and I count them as my blessings.

A Very Sad Day

Today, a horrid massacre of innocents happened.  Words can not express the way I feel right now.  I am numb, depressed and confused.  Twenty Kindergartners lost their lives in a place that is supposed to be safe by a crazed man who had no regard for their life.  A senseless act. 

I thought immediately of Hunter in his Kindergarten class and texted Larry to give him a big hug for us when he picks him up today.  My first reaction was sadness and prayer.  My second was anger towards the man who did this.  How dare he do this to innocent children!  My emotions were on a roller coaster and now I am just numb.  This man killed his mom and everyone she loved: her students and her husband.  Why?  We can speculate all we want but it comes down to it is a senseless horrid act.

Some ask, "Where is God in this, why did He allow this to happen?  However, I ask and know the answer, "Where is Satan in all this?"  Satan delights in the sorrow while God grieves.  Evil abound today.  Satan is the one whispering "Where is your God in this?"  Using the emotions to his advantage.

I don't understand the "why" this man did this or why the LORD allowed it to happen.  I think we never will understand that but it doesn't mean He doesn't care.  He does as hard as it is for some to understand, He does love us.  He is holding those children in His Arms, they are safe now.  The LORD is there amongst the grieving...unseen but still there with each tear drop. He is there with the children who survived and the families. 

Evil is abounding in these days.  What with the shooting at the mall a couple of days ago and now this.  I truly believe that the devil has little time left and he is doing all he can to finish his work here. It may be scary but I have confidence in the LORD because I know what happens at the end.  I still grieve, feel, hurt but I have my comfort in the Great Comforter and trust Him to get us through this.

In my prayers, I lift up those families and friends of those whose loved ones were lost and those who survived. I pray that the LORD continue to comfort them in the days and years to come.

"The LORD is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit." Psalm 34; 18

Three Unexpected Gifts ...

The first one I received a couple of weeks ago.  It was from my dear friend and adopted Dad, Ken.  He gave me small sleigh that he had built.  I was delighted when he gave it to me and could see some of the kids' presents in it.  One problem:  all their gifts are bigger than the sleigh!  Then I did something and needed to secure the bottom.  Today with bottom secured, it found it's place on the hearth with some Christmas decorations in it.  I love the way it looks on the brick with the elf looking down on it.  Our personalized stockings hang above it too!  Thanks, Pops!  Love it and love it more since you made it yourself!


The second gift was a wreath!   One of my athlete's mom and sister own a tree farm outside of Oregon City.  Jenny, the sister, called me to wish us a Merry Christmas and offered as a gift for all we do for Special Olympics athletes, a free noble fir!  I told her that I have my Christmas tree up and my daughter just got hers.  I thanked her for the thought.  She then offered a wreath.  Though I had my wreath up, no one can see it unless they open the door, so, I accepted her gift.  Today we went to pick it up.  I was really hoping that Roy, her brother and one of my bowlers would be there but sigh, he wasn't.  He didn't bowl this year because I had my maximum number of bowlers one week before the registration ended.  I really missed Roy and heard that he was devastated that he couldn't bowl.  We got our "candy cane wreath" and went home to put it up.  Here it is!  I love it because when I see it, I think of Roy.

The last gift which came with a warm hug and kiss was early this morning.  The door bell rang, I opened the door and to my surprise there was Grace holding a dozen red roses and such a big smile.  Alison said she picked it out all by herself.  Red--Nana's favorite color.  I loved it!  Larry and Alison were behind her and they all came in for a short while.  Larry had a dental appointment and they had to pick up Hunter at school soon.  It was good to see Larry back home and I hope that he will be able to be home at Christmas.

It was a pleasant surprise and I loved it.  Yes, my house was a mess but it really didn't matter.  Before leaving, Grace gave me a big warm hug and kiss.  Such a wonderful gift.

Everyday the LORD has made it Christmas for me.  Unexpected surprises that warm my spirit.  I truly have been blessed this Christmas season.

The Gift of Awareness

My prayers go out to those affected by the shooting at the mall yesterday.  To the families who lost their loved ones, those injured and all who will be traumatized by this event for years to come.  I pray for peace for them during this season and beyond. I pray for heaing for the family of the man who did this and then killed himself.  He must have been one really disturbed person to do this in the middle of the Christmas shopping season.

I woke up planning to do a couple of things and then maybe go to the mall to spend the Barnes & Noble gift card Mom sent.   The thought surfaced and then disappeared a couple of times during the day.  I figured I could go in the afternoon and get back before traffic got crazy--about three in the afternoon.  The gunman opened fire about 3:30 or so.

I was going to do a couple of short housework projects and leave.  Strangely and suddenly I felt like blogging about my Nana.  This wasn't a run of the mill blog--I had to find photos and scan them.  I had to do some Photoshopping on the photos as well.  All this took time and I forgot about the mall.  The story was longer than I had in mind but once I started typing there was no stopping!

The post brought back alot of memories and some tears.  It was getting late when the phone rang--it was Annie.  She asked if I knew if Alison was home.  I said maybe, I don't know.  Then she told me about the shooting at the mall.  She couldn't get through to Alison on the phone and was worried.  I hung up and called Alison praying all the way.  When Alison answered and told me that she was home--praise God she was okay.

It is amazing how the LORD brings into prospective what is important to you.  We live in a culture were it is all about "me" never thinking about others and what they are going through.  We put importance in "things" and not each other.  Sadly, events like this shake us and show us what our life is really about--family, relationships, reaching out, helping others--community.

Many of those in the mall left their material possessions to help others get out safely.  Those with children were helped by total strangers.  It didn't matter who you were, people reached out to help.

So, I guess yesterday's gift was a gift of awareness.  Awareness that we are surrounded by people who need our help.  People that we usually don't see because we are so wrapped up in us that we don't see their hurts and needs.  Its time to slow down and be an encouragement.

My Nana & Loving Memories

One of my many blessings I have in life is my Nana!  I was born in Germany and the ocean didn't keep my Nana and "Gang-Gang" from visiting often.  In my eyes, she was perfect!  This woman showed me more love over a great distance than I had in a life time.  My dad was strict and didn't show emotions and my mom followed suit.



Nana, my brother, Jim, me, Mom and Gang-Gang



When we stayed in England until I was five, Nana spoilt me rotten.  I was the first grandchild and that in Europe is a big thing!  I loved both her and Gang Gang.  I remember walks all over the small town of Barrow-in-Furness.  Me in my pram and both of them fighting over who would push.  She would give me a bottle of tea (1/4 tea rest milk) which explains my addiction to tea :)  My grandparents would watch me during the day while Mom worked in a cigarette factory.  Mom never smoked until much later.  Dad was away stationed in Japan and Italy.

I loved their little apartment.  The coal bin in the back, though it was dirty, was an excellent place to play with the neighborhood kids.  Poor Nana would come out and rush me into a bath to clean up before Mom got home.  She would bathe me and be laughing all the time.  She had the best laugh.  One that you couldn't help but laugh along and feel alot better.

Nana had the best hugs too!  She would rock me and hold me in her rocker in front of the fire.  Sigh, life was good!  Needless to say when we had to move to France, I was devastated! I couldn't believe that Dad would be so cruel to move there.  I couldn't understand why I couldn't stay.  I remember that day.  It was a misty rain hitting the cold cobblestone road in front of Nana's and Gang-Gang's small flat.  The cab came and picked us up.  I cried and cried, Nana cried, Gang-Gang cried.  I remember looking through the back of the car to see them standing there, so still and still crying.  I hated that day!

Time passed and Nana and Gang-Gang wrote volumes of letters, sent tons of care packages, called often and visited as they could.  We visited them when we could.  I also wrote letters and they would quickly answer.  I loved getting letters back especially when they had a picture in them!  Then came the letter when I was in the sixth grade from Gang-Gang.  He told me that I need to call him "Grand-dad" not Gang-Gang.  I was older and it was time.  My heart sunk, he was always Gang-Gang and to call him something that all kids call their grandparents was wrong in my eyes.  However, he insisted and the next letter, I called him "Grand-Dad" though I never stopped calling him his real name in my heart.

In 1994, every time I talked to Nana on the phone (I phoned once a month to England) I would cry after I hung up knowing that Nana now 95 would be going home soon.  So,I visited England with my mom.  When I came through her door, she was sitting at the window, crying and saying I thought I would never see you again, my Dena!  We hugged and I regretted not coming before now.  Nana would play the "pools" so that maybe she would win and she could fly over again to see me.  We had a wonderful time staying in Nana's small apartment and just being with her.  Mom showed me all the sites that Dad and her went.  Where they met and alot of family history--I will try to blog about all that later.  Nana delighted in my company and I in hers.  I have wonderful memories of that visit.

 

Me & Nana 1994

Six months after I visited and a week after her 96th birthday on February 18, 1995, Nana went to sleep and woke up in Heaven where she waits with open arms to hug me and hold me some day--Oh what a Glorious Day that will be!

Today the LORD gave me a gift of memories--those of a loving Nana and the wonderful times and love that she gave freely gave me.  I only pray that I can be just like her in my grandchildrens' heart.  If so, I have honored her.









The Gift of a "Nana Date"

Today I found out that my Mom will be seeing a cardiologist about her slow heart beat.  Sigh, so, I need prayers.  I am praying that the problem isn't her heart and that whatever it is, that it is treatable and minor.

So, today also was my date with Gracie!  Boy, I needed that to take my mind off of Mom.  Our "Nana Date" was so awesome!!

I picked up Grace at the school when Alison dropped off Hunter and off we went to the mall!  First step was the M&Ms machine!  Reality check there.  The price doubled since last time and the amount of M&Ms was the same.  None the less--Grace was happy as a clam.  When we go to the mall with her brother and Gramps, we have a routine--we followed it today.



Next was to stop and get a orange smoothie.  We always get a small one with a protein boost and share it with two cups.  More than enough for both of us (we usually split with Hunter).  Grace loves her smoothies!  Next on our routine is to go to Nana's favorite bookstore--Barnes & Noble.  Really any bookstore is my favorite--I love books!  At the front of the store, Grace stopped and pointed to a familiar logo--"Starbucks! Nana, there IS a Starbucks in this store!"  We had talked before about stopping at Starbucks and getting MaMa and PaPa a present.  So, we made our way to Starbucks and Grace picked out two gift cards, one for MaMa and one for PaPa.  She was so proud of her purchases and just beamed.  "They are gonna love this!"she whispered with a smile.

Since Grace was so well behaved, Nana suggested that we go into the Build A Bear Workshop.  She was delighted and wanted to know if I was going to buy her something.  We agreed on something small and she found a small kitty.....that she said wanted to go home with her.  Enough said, far be it from Nana to deprive a small kitty and favorite grand daughter the happiness of being together!

We walked out of the store with her hugging her new kitty.  One of the kiosks was selling nail polish and we went over to it because the gal said that she could  put a small butterfly on her fingernail.  And a couple of minutes later, Grace had a small white butterfly on her pink thumbnail. 

We went to the fish next.  There are two ponds that the kids love to go to and watch for awhile the Koa fish swim.  When that was done, it was off to the playground in the mall.  Grace was in her element, running, jumping, climbing, sliding down the slide, etc.  We were there forty minutes and she thoroughly enjoyed herself.

Next was a real treat.  Every time we come, the kids ask about riding the small train in the mall.  While Grace was playing, I read the poster about the train--they give a military discount!  So, we paid the train conductor and climbed in.  Grace placed "Kitty" next to her and just grinned so happy to have her first mall train ride!

Then it was time to leave and have lunch.  Grace wanted fish at Burgerville so, we went to Burgerville and ate our fish and chips.  She was hungry and ate everything!  Must be all that playing and walking around the mall!  We got two balloons, one for her and one for Hunter and left for her house.  MaMa was waiting.  Grace was getting a little grumpy--tired and time for a nap!.

Now, my Grace is like Nana in that she gave MaMa her Christmas gift and put PaPa's in his stocking.  I am horrible about giving gifts early and I guess that is hereditary!

When I left my little one was tucked into her blanket on the couch snuggled with her "Kitty".  It was a wonderful date, a wonderful gift of time spent with my grand daughter.  I have to have a date with Hunter next. :)

Two Unexpected Presents

Last Wednesday, I had to take Hunter to his first hockey practice! He has gone through all the basic skating and now is ready! Alison was still at work and Wayne was too sick to go.  I packed up Grace and Hunter and made our way to the Sherwood Ice Rink.  On the way there, Christmas carols were playing on the radio.  We were singing all the way there!  It was a wonderful time and made my Christmas season so special!  Another gift--thank You, LORD!

I remember taking Grace somewhere and one of my favorite praise songs was playing on the radio.  I had the radio volume up when Grace asked me to turn it down.  When I did she said, "That's better, Nana, I can hear you sing now!"  Sigh, I don't have a singing voice but this little one wants to hear it anyways.

I remember when I was in seventh grade, I was in the church choir.  I was happy to be there.  Yet, I guess I didn't realize I didn't have a good singing voice--just the opposite.  One day, my choir director came to my house, I was told that she wanted to talk to Mom alone.  I went in my bedroom but kept the door ajar so I can hear everything.

I was devastated, she wasn't there to tell Mom I was doing well, it was just the opposite. I couldn't believe my ears when I heard her ask Mom to discourage me to sing in the choir--I was not "choir material".  Stab me through the heart!

Well, I adapted to that knowledge, I made it easy for Mom and told her I want to quit choir.


Now, I know that one day my voice will not please my grandchildren.  However, this time in the car singing along with them, I have the voice of an angel but only through their ears.

We made it to hockey and Hunter was so excited!  Mama made it to make sure I had his hockey outfit on correctly. He was one of four young ones (all the same age) and the coach was a real hockey coach which delighted Hunter to no end!  He worked the kids during the practice and Hunter loved it!  So proud of my little guy!

Two gifts: singing in the car and seeing my little guy happy returning to hockey!  The LORD is good!

Special Gifts at Our Special Olympics Party

Last night was our annual Special Olympics party.  It used to be called our Christmas Party but political correctness prevailed. Try as they may, to the athletes, it is and will always be our CHRISTMAS Party.  I hesitated about going since I had a head cold and didn't feel that great but I am so glad that I went.

I was pretty busy last night.  My responsibility was to be at the table greeting the athletes and giving out a gift of a photo album to those who helped in our fundraiser.  I had all the albums with the athletes' names on each to hand out.  The best part of the "job" was greeting!  I got so many hugs--love these kind of Christmas presents!  The best from Dale, who I haven't seen in years!  He works on Saturdays which prevents him from participating in any sport.  I love these Christmas presents--the best kind--those that money can't buy!

There was a coach there whom I hate to admit, I have been jealous of and resented.  The LORD is good, He placed both of us together at the table and the rest of the evening.  She and I became good friends as the evening progressed, the jealousy and resentment was gone.  Another gift!

Janice, one of my bowlers, handed me a small gift wrapped in old wrapping tissue.  Every year, she gives me a gift.  It is definitely something from either the Dollar Tree or thrift store but it is priceless to me!  This year is was a small set of chimes.  I am hanging it in my art room, where I deliberately surround myself with items that remind me of those I love.

Christmas this year has been hard since I can't give as much as I would like since our finances are limited.  I have made items and limited how much I spend on the kids.  Wayne and I have decided we don't need to exchange gifts with each other--if we need anything, we usually buy it anyways.

Christmas is different but that is okay.  Taking away the urge to buy, buy, buy has been a good lesson on focusing on what Christmas is really about.  We get so wrapped up in keeping up with the Jones' by making sure everyone gets what they want and really miss what they need most.  Those items are not bought but given freely--time, love, compassion, understanding, forgiveness and the list goes on. Focusing on the materialism misses the real focus of Christmas.  Although Charlie Brown was banned in one school district, Linus has it right--It is about the Savior!  Pure and simple!

Old Fashioned Connections

Remember the old fashioned telephone?  The device that hung on the wall or at the edge of the kitchen counter?  It didn't do texting, take pictures, or surf the net.  It had one purpose only--the connect people in voice communication.  Today we text alot, talk little.  So sad.  I still call my mom once a week to hear her voice.  Texting doesn't allow me to hear her laugh or the concern in her voice about something. It doesn't let me hear her voice go from being depressed to her spirit lifted at the thought of hearing someone who takes the time to call.

Sure, some phones have "Face Time" were you can see who you are talking to.  That however is costly and personally I can't afford it and if the person on the other end doesn't have that feature on their phone, it is useless.  Skype is the same way but you need a computer and software with both parties connected.

Ahh, the beauty of a land line phone--no software needed, no computer either!  I remember times talking for hours with my girlfriends and Dad raising Cain because of it!  Every month, I would splurge and call Nana in England.  I had to remember that she was eight hours ahead (something she forgot when she would call me at four in the morning saying it was lunchtime there!). I loved hearing her British accent and her laugh was contagious. It was like she was right there in my living room and I in hers. Sigh, I miss talking to her but plan on bending her ear when I get to heaven!

Sadly, this generation sees talking on the phone a pain, a burden and texting quicker.  Yes, we are a fast pace society and it is no wonder we have lost that personal connection with each other. Yes, I text but only because if I didn't, I would never hear from some of my friends and family. So I
go with the flow and am grateful for any connection.

Given the choice, meeting in person beats it all!  FaceBook is ok and nice to keep in touch long distance with family pictures and such but nothing beats slowing down and spending time with those you love.  That is the best present of all at any time of the year!

Finding Little Treasures

For the past couple of days I have been making myself sort and organize my art room.  I have had to force myself because I have this cold or whatever it is and refuse to let it win.  Wayne has been sick since last week and doesn't seem to get any better.

When I went through all the boxes and things (I can't believe all the stuff I have accumulated!), I placed a bunch of things in a big bag for Hunter and Grace to make crafts with.  It is mostly for Grace since Hunter doesn't do much crafts, but once in awhile, he surprises me and can pass the time with paper and punches.

Lately, the two of them have invaded my art room, which I don't mind.  It is rather nice having them there.  They love the tall table and all the room that it has for making a project!

Since the two of them fought over my one tall stool, I bought two more.  They were delighted to see that they had their own stools.  Before you knew it, they had all the stuff out of the bag and were busy having fun making things. 

It is so good seeing the two of them creating things and getting alot of joy out of non-electronic gadgets! 

Tea with Pam

Friday I had tea with Pam at The Place To Be.  I have known Pam longer than Jeannie and consider her a sister in Christ.  Pam was there through all the tears and depression I had when I was married to Gary.  She was always there with a shoulder to cry on.  We had good times together as well--camping at Tadmor and serving at Awana among alot more.  We were the best of friends then until the divorce. 

Pam wasn't like the "friends" who disowned me during that time.  She didn't condone my actions but she didn't condemn.  She was there waiting for my return; I felt her prayers. When I did return we grew back together.  That is true friendship.

Our lives have gotten busier but we try to meet every month for tea.  We talk about our kids, our grandkids, anything and everything. It is different from Jeannie because we are sisters in Christ. I keep praying for Jeannie and would rejoice if she became my sister in Christ.

I was delighted that she shared a scripture that she prays for her children their spouses and grandchildren.  It inspired me to do the same for mine too.  The scripture is Colossians 1:9-14

"For this reason, since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you.  We continually ask God to fill you with the knowledge of His will through all the wisdom and understanding that the Spirit gives, so that you may live a life worthy of the Lord and please Him in every way; bearing fruit in every good work, growing in the knowledge of God, being strengthened with all power according to His glorious might so that you may have great endurance and patience, and giving joyful thanks to the Father, who has qualified you to share in the inheritance of His holy people in the kingdom of light.  For He has rescued us from the dominion of darkness and brought us into the kingdom of the Son He loves, in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins."