Because I was up north for four years, I really missed having long, wonderful conversations with my dear friends. I was blessed during my "northern exposure" to have some great home visits and frequent phone visits with some of my friends, but many of us are so busy, we just couldn't fit those long distance sharing moments into our schedules. I'm working hard to catch up on "catching up" and this week was a wonderful start.
Sadly, when you're alone you kinda' adjust to not talking and for me that was quite an adjustment! That's probably why my dogs seem to listen so intently to me. They were my conversation partners. But here I am now, surrounded by my precious friends and family, and I get to see their faces as we discuss our lives - past, present, and future. What a gift to ourselves to be able to talk with others about what's in our hearts and on our minds. The age of the person, where they are in life, their state of mind, their heartaches and joys, all contribute to the memories you will always have of this person.
Last Sunday at St Matthews Baptist Church, the "Magical" David G. reintroduced me to a few verses in Romans, (Chapter 14, 1-15-15:7). He called this message "US and THEM". As usual with David, humor played into the questions he asked each of us. But for me, more importantly, these verses and the challenge he presented to all of us was about making the "me" into an "us". After forty plus years of being married and being an "us", I have spent the past four years discovering what it means to be a "me". He talked about walking into a room looking for the person to make "me" an "us". WOW! I have done this countless times in recent years. There are just so many situations when you find yourself being the "one" person in the group. Oh...everyone is very welcoming and friendly, but that doesn't change the feeling in your heart. One of the things I'm thankful to my Handsome fella' for is when we're in group gatherings, he makes me an "us" instead of a "me", a "two" instead of a "one", a person who can laugh out loud instead of one who forces a quiet smile, someone who can look forward to events and not dread the future. Thank you David for reminding me to avoid placing stumbling blocks in the way and to focus on what "joins" us all together. Great Sunday morning even though we did have to say goodbye to one of my newest, best friends, Jeremy who, along with his family, is following a new calling from the Lord. (Dang!!!) Best wishes to him in his new church home!
The rest of the week included some very special conversations with exceptional people.
Lunch and talking with Madeline who had breast cancer surgery yesterday and the prognosis looks very promising.
A great evening with my wonderful friend CH and her friends celebrating...yes celebrating her recent divorce, selling of her home and the purchase of her new home. What a journey she has nearly completed and now the hope and excitement for a new journey with a wonderful future filled with new experiences.
Fun, entertaining and interesting (as usual) conversations with KVH who came from Michigan for the party. CH and KVH came to see me every October I lived in northern Michigan. What special times those were.
Sharing a few short conversations with my dear friends Joyce and Cinda. They are training for their THIRD Susan G. Komen, 3-day, 60 mile walk, this year in Philadelphia! My heart nearly bursts when I think of the commitment they have made to accomplish this. I am so proud of them for this (and lots of other things too!).
Had so many great interactions with people I have missed, Ray, Werner, Sam, MB, and the list goes on.
And I have to mention the many conversations with Handsome fella'. As he is on the same side of the "me" part of his life as I am, we can discuss our history with special spouses and feel comfortable sharing those memories.
TRUE FRIENDS understand where you've been, they listen to you, they laugh and cry with you, they share their hearts with you.
Sometimes the stumbling block is a pebble on the walk and other times that pebble is in your shoe! Hold on to the arm of your friend, and they will help you remove it! Hold your friends close and keep talking.
xxoo
Prayer requests - Friends Rick and Barbara still battling health issues, brother and sister-in-law of my friend ET, Madeline as she continues to recover from her surgery, Danielle still suffering the 24-hour variety of morning sickness, TRB as he begins his new job responsibilities, children grieving over the loss of a parent, and all of our military and their families.
P.S. Today would have been my 41st wedding anniversary. So thankful for those memories and looking forward to new conversations!
Friday, August 1, 2014
Sunday, July 20, 2014
What a Week!!!!!
The only concern about writing a review of this week is where to start! So I'll begin with last Sunday.
Had a great experience at church only made greater by having lunch with the Louisville Kirkland gang! WOW! Reed has grown so much and MH is so beautiful...and a runner! She has just finished running her second 5K and finished in 43 minutes!!!! And her running mate is her grandmother!!!! Is that exciting or what????
First thing Monday morning, I went to a new dentist. It's so hard to change doctors and since my former dentist was no longer practicing but teaching, I had to start over! On the recommendation of Handsome fella', I met Dr. David Schaefer and his able Hygienist, Missy. Great office and great people. Mark that off my list!
Monday I was also determined to complete my office area. Found the perfect shelves and got them into my car then into the house! Not an easy task. They had to be assembled but the box said no tools needed! (In the past four years I have discovered that anytime the assembly instructions are written in four languages there's probably gonna' be an error or two! Yes, that applies to these shelves!) The first giant task was getting them out of the box. Now I'm a reasonably intelligent person with a reasonable amount of strength. Good grief! I finally got one set out of the box and completed the first step. After that it was an uphill battle. I finally gave up and decided to wait until tomorrow so I could mentally prepare for what appeared was going to be a super frustration for me. Wait...someone's knocking on my front door. Knight in shining armor arrives...AKA Handsome fella'!!!!! So Monday ended much, much better than I expected. Bookshelves assembled and placed in office! My hero!!!
Tuesday began with organizing my office with the new shelves. Got that done in short order and moved onto my next task, emptying and organizing 6 trunk/tubs of winter clothes, boots, coats and personal stuff! Got all that hung in the guest room walk-in closet and moved the empty tubs to the garage. Which brings me to my next task...organizing the garage. You'd think if a person moved three times in four years they would be able to manage their personal belongings. I swear that stuff reproduces during the night. After downsizing, dividing (TR Baker into his own home), giving away, throwing away, and moving from 5 bedrooms to two, there was a huge amount of stuff I didn't even move. And some of the stuff I did move was for my sisters and daughter Libby. So how come, after moving into this town home did I still have too much stuff???? The garage was full of furniture and boxes I simply could not fit inside. And I wanted to be able to put my car in the garage. I did a pretty good job of labeling my boxes so I was primarily looking for a blender, two small lamps, a few more pots and pans, framed photos, book ends, and the ever-popular toaster. I found it all, emptied several boxes and consolidated several more, moved a few things around and still not room for my car! I took empty boxes to the dumpster/compactor and kept stacking until all I was left with was two dining room chairs (cannot fit them into the dining room!). So I hammered a few nails into the garage wall and hung the chairs. Also, since HC Baker died, I have moved financial/tax records from as far back as 2006 and I was tired of it. I looked on-line and the IRS said keeping 4-5 years of "stuff" was sufficient. BTW, the IRS keeps seven years so why should I? Did you know you could take this kind of stuff to the FedEx (sorry TR Baker) store, pay them 79 cents a pound and they will shred it? So I loaded the car with 2006/7/8/9 tax, etc. records, plus two additional boxes labeled HC's miscellaneous files and took them to the shredder. I should tell you that was an incredible "freeing" experience for me. I started to go through each box before I took them but decided NO! I'm done with them. The car is in the garage!!!!! Go Me!
Now, what should have taken me a few hours became two days. I did not go through the tax and file boxes but I did come across two other boxes I have moved three times in the past four years. Both boxes were not cardboard like the bankers boxes but leather and felt lined. One box contained all the cards and memories of HC Baker's illnesses and surgeries and the other all the memories of his death. After quite a few deep breaths, I decided I would read everything one more time then they would be discarded. And I didn't call my children. This is not their burden, it's mine. So I began. Oh my, what wonderful, fabulous, faithful friends HC Baker had and I have. So many cards when he was ill...in Louisville and at the Mayo Clinic. I was able to picture their faces as I read the messages from around the world. Cards, letters, e-mails, the responses to the on-line updates while at Mayo, pizza boxes signed by all who were in attendance that day, the huge envelope of cards made by the youth. I remember the day we received that envelope and how HC Baker and I both cried over each fun drawing and comment from those precious teenagers who meant so much to him for so many years. And I remembered the phone calls to me while we were at Mayo. So many times I could not talk but cried while those on the other end just held me in their hearts so many miles away. And then the cards and conversations when we arrived back home. We'd made it! So I finished that box and dumped all of it in a bag to be discarded. Box #2...A.D. I didn't know if I could do this today but told myself YES I CAN! It's one more box. And interesting to note, both dogs sat right at my feet the whole time. The cards and letters again from around the world from people I knew and loved and people I had no idea who they were. People HC Baker had met along the way. Such beautiful messages in cards and letters, dear friends who had Catholic masses said for him, donations made to the HC Baker Children and Youth Memorial fund and Kentucky Habitat for Humanity, and flowers. I did keep the guest book from the visitation and memorial service, so grateful for all those who came. Let me say again how grateful I was and continue to be for the staff at St. Matthews Baptist Church who held me and all the details together. And to Mark at Clifton Pizza for his special gift of the lunch. It could not have been more perfect. So many of the cards and memories especially touched my heart as they were sent from dear friends who have since joined HC Baker on the streets paved in gold. OK, I did it! Hard work and the physical reminders are gone but the memories will last forever.
The last thing of note on Wednesday was a posting on FB from TR Baker. Many of you saw it and have expressed to TR Baker and me your joy and support. TR Baker has had a difficult time in the past four years but he has come through it all and is now seeing the sunshine of life. About a year ago he met Danielle and when I announced to him I was selling our grey home and moving back to Louisville, he decided to stay up north and begin to share a home with Danielle and her two children, Natalie and Oliver. I have been so proud of TR Baker and his efforts to make a home for himself and his new family. He has worked for UPS for 14 years and has been offered a full time position of driving for them. He leaves today for a week of training. Please pray for him as "anxiety" is his other middle name! And then the best news is he and Danielle are expecting a precious baby. They are both thrilled and on Friday, he heard the baby's heartbeat for the first time. He said it was awesome! So I gained two more grandchildren with Natalie and Oliver and now will add another! That equals 9 grandchildren for me!!!! How blessed am I? Can't wait for another baby to hold!
*Note - Did I tell you Libby is getting married on August 30? So I'm gaining a new son-in-law too and his name is Tim! Blessings continue!
OK, it's Thursday now. Spent most of the day completing the tasks I began earlier this week. And then got ready to attend the St. Matthews Baptist Church Women's Summer Pot Luck Supper. I love "pot luck" meals. You can taste some amazing things! Fabulous salads, delicious corn pudding, enchilada pie, CANDY BAR CAKE!!!!!, fresh blackberry cobbler and on and on! YUMMY! A cookbook is being prepared with all the recipes. And the best part was seeing so many friends I had not had the opportunity to be with in some time. I saw Madeline and her incredible daughter Sam. Sat next to new friend Pat and a friend of many years, Debbie and her wonderful daughter Amanda! Missed all of them so much! Fabulous evening! Thank you to Cinda and her great team! I love you all!
(I know this is long, but it was a very "releasing" and "revealing" week!)
Friday morning - Oh my! Went downstairs and stepped on carpet that squished under my feet! Not a good start! Called the maintenance number immediately and 5 minutes later someone is knocking at my door. (This happened once before right after I moved in and it was the furnace/ac unit with a clogged pipe.) This squishy carpet is on the other side of the dining room, far away from the furnace/ac unit. What now??????? BTW, I'm not happy! It appears the townhouse next door had a water line break and it came over to my place. Whatever...JUST FIX IT!!!!! So it began with the removal of the carpet padding, mopping up, water extraction from carpet, and huge fan under the carpet to dry it all. I hate messes and just when I was about to have everything in order! And I have Handsome fella' coming for dinner. It is what it is! They will be back Monday morning to complete the task. So, since I am not happy (that my friends is an understatement!), I asked if the "guys" could make time that day to hang my wall art. Why yes, we can certainly do that! (Funny how things happen!) Anyway, I have this very tall and dimly lit stairwell. Several weeks ago I asked them to move the dining room light fixture (a brushed nickel drop light that did not allow my dining room table and china cabinet to be placed as I wanted them in the dining room) to the stairwell and move the basic ceiling light from the stairwell to the dining room. They did that and then I proceeded to create a wall hanging. The center piece is old fabric from things I've made over the years, pieced together with other "things" that make me smile. One of my favorite add-ons is two pink rubber breast cancer bracelets to remind me of my dear friends Joyce and Cinda as they prepare for their third 3-day, 60 mile walk this year in Philadelphia. I think and pray for them each time I go up and down the stairs! On each side of this fabric collage is a sari HC Baker brought me from India. So the maintenance guys brought one of those very cool ladders that allow you to make the legs adjust to the height you need, and they proceeded to hang the rod to hold my wall art. They got everything up and hanging and OH MY GOODNESS, it looks FABULOUS! I wish all of you could see it! I'm very happy and it made me forget my dining room looked like crap! So my dinner was successful and Handsome fella' enjoyed it! (Fresh tomato and cottage cheese, country ham, lima beans, new potatoes, fresh peach cobbler and peach ice cream! Delicious!)
So now it's Saturday! You're gonna' love this day! Handsome fella' calls and asks what are my plans for the day. I don't really have any so I'm open to suggestions. He asks if I'd like to go to the Forecastle Music Festival. I've heard so much about it over the years and never attended so yes, I'd like to go. (He'd never been either.) So off we went. I'm smiling as I write this because I have NEVER in my life seen so many "sights". There were very creative costumes, some really old hippies and really young teenagers, body parts that would have been better covered, clothes or lack thereof, tiny babies carried on daddys' backs, barefooted folks (oh my!), and anything else you could possibly imagine. OH and I used a porta-potty and sat on the ground! Quite something for me! My list of the most viewed wardrobe pieces and accessories include boots - any kind from muck boots to combat boots, hair bands of ribbons, flowers, kerchiefs, etc., worn wrapped around the head "hippie" style, anything that could reveal too much skin, hats, and TATTOOS! Lots of tattoos! Huge tattoos! Arms covered in tattoos, backs covered in tattoos, legs and ankles covered in tattoos, and the list goes on! The "people watching" was worth the price of admission! And it's VERY expensive to go (glad I wasn't paying!) I'm still smiling because we had a great time! Laughing is one of the things that makes your heart happy and Handsome fella' and I always laugh together. And yesterday was full of laughs. Oh, and the music was great too. (Unfortunately, I was not familiar with many of the entertainers but liked the sounds, most of them. The closing act last night was Jack White and I got excited because I thought it was Jack Black and I knew of him!!! (My grandchildren just groaned!!!!)
So that was my week! The good and the bad, the old and the new, the laughter and the tears, remembering the past and making new memories. At least my life is never boring!
Love to you all for being a part of my life! xxoo
Prayer requests - Friends Rick and Barbara still battling health issues, friend MG who will have surgery at the end of the month, TR Baker, Danielle, Natalie, Oliver and new baby - lots of new experiences for all of them, friend CH has sold her home and now faces the "where to go" decision, and pray for a great week for yourselves!
Had a great experience at church only made greater by having lunch with the Louisville Kirkland gang! WOW! Reed has grown so much and MH is so beautiful...and a runner! She has just finished running her second 5K and finished in 43 minutes!!!! And her running mate is her grandmother!!!! Is that exciting or what????
First thing Monday morning, I went to a new dentist. It's so hard to change doctors and since my former dentist was no longer practicing but teaching, I had to start over! On the recommendation of Handsome fella', I met Dr. David Schaefer and his able Hygienist, Missy. Great office and great people. Mark that off my list!
Monday I was also determined to complete my office area. Found the perfect shelves and got them into my car then into the house! Not an easy task. They had to be assembled but the box said no tools needed! (In the past four years I have discovered that anytime the assembly instructions are written in four languages there's probably gonna' be an error or two! Yes, that applies to these shelves!) The first giant task was getting them out of the box. Now I'm a reasonably intelligent person with a reasonable amount of strength. Good grief! I finally got one set out of the box and completed the first step. After that it was an uphill battle. I finally gave up and decided to wait until tomorrow so I could mentally prepare for what appeared was going to be a super frustration for me. Wait...someone's knocking on my front door. Knight in shining armor arrives...AKA Handsome fella'!!!!! So Monday ended much, much better than I expected. Bookshelves assembled and placed in office! My hero!!!
Tuesday began with organizing my office with the new shelves. Got that done in short order and moved onto my next task, emptying and organizing 6 trunk/tubs of winter clothes, boots, coats and personal stuff! Got all that hung in the guest room walk-in closet and moved the empty tubs to the garage. Which brings me to my next task...organizing the garage. You'd think if a person moved three times in four years they would be able to manage their personal belongings. I swear that stuff reproduces during the night. After downsizing, dividing (TR Baker into his own home), giving away, throwing away, and moving from 5 bedrooms to two, there was a huge amount of stuff I didn't even move. And some of the stuff I did move was for my sisters and daughter Libby. So how come, after moving into this town home did I still have too much stuff???? The garage was full of furniture and boxes I simply could not fit inside. And I wanted to be able to put my car in the garage. I did a pretty good job of labeling my boxes so I was primarily looking for a blender, two small lamps, a few more pots and pans, framed photos, book ends, and the ever-popular toaster. I found it all, emptied several boxes and consolidated several more, moved a few things around and still not room for my car! I took empty boxes to the dumpster/compactor and kept stacking until all I was left with was two dining room chairs (cannot fit them into the dining room!). So I hammered a few nails into the garage wall and hung the chairs. Also, since HC Baker died, I have moved financial/tax records from as far back as 2006 and I was tired of it. I looked on-line and the IRS said keeping 4-5 years of "stuff" was sufficient. BTW, the IRS keeps seven years so why should I? Did you know you could take this kind of stuff to the FedEx (sorry TR Baker) store, pay them 79 cents a pound and they will shred it? So I loaded the car with 2006/7/8/9 tax, etc. records, plus two additional boxes labeled HC's miscellaneous files and took them to the shredder. I should tell you that was an incredible "freeing" experience for me. I started to go through each box before I took them but decided NO! I'm done with them. The car is in the garage!!!!! Go Me!
Now, what should have taken me a few hours became two days. I did not go through the tax and file boxes but I did come across two other boxes I have moved three times in the past four years. Both boxes were not cardboard like the bankers boxes but leather and felt lined. One box contained all the cards and memories of HC Baker's illnesses and surgeries and the other all the memories of his death. After quite a few deep breaths, I decided I would read everything one more time then they would be discarded. And I didn't call my children. This is not their burden, it's mine. So I began. Oh my, what wonderful, fabulous, faithful friends HC Baker had and I have. So many cards when he was ill...in Louisville and at the Mayo Clinic. I was able to picture their faces as I read the messages from around the world. Cards, letters, e-mails, the responses to the on-line updates while at Mayo, pizza boxes signed by all who were in attendance that day, the huge envelope of cards made by the youth. I remember the day we received that envelope and how HC Baker and I both cried over each fun drawing and comment from those precious teenagers who meant so much to him for so many years. And I remembered the phone calls to me while we were at Mayo. So many times I could not talk but cried while those on the other end just held me in their hearts so many miles away. And then the cards and conversations when we arrived back home. We'd made it! So I finished that box and dumped all of it in a bag to be discarded. Box #2...A.D. I didn't know if I could do this today but told myself YES I CAN! It's one more box. And interesting to note, both dogs sat right at my feet the whole time. The cards and letters again from around the world from people I knew and loved and people I had no idea who they were. People HC Baker had met along the way. Such beautiful messages in cards and letters, dear friends who had Catholic masses said for him, donations made to the HC Baker Children and Youth Memorial fund and Kentucky Habitat for Humanity, and flowers. I did keep the guest book from the visitation and memorial service, so grateful for all those who came. Let me say again how grateful I was and continue to be for the staff at St. Matthews Baptist Church who held me and all the details together. And to Mark at Clifton Pizza for his special gift of the lunch. It could not have been more perfect. So many of the cards and memories especially touched my heart as they were sent from dear friends who have since joined HC Baker on the streets paved in gold. OK, I did it! Hard work and the physical reminders are gone but the memories will last forever.
The last thing of note on Wednesday was a posting on FB from TR Baker. Many of you saw it and have expressed to TR Baker and me your joy and support. TR Baker has had a difficult time in the past four years but he has come through it all and is now seeing the sunshine of life. About a year ago he met Danielle and when I announced to him I was selling our grey home and moving back to Louisville, he decided to stay up north and begin to share a home with Danielle and her two children, Natalie and Oliver. I have been so proud of TR Baker and his efforts to make a home for himself and his new family. He has worked for UPS for 14 years and has been offered a full time position of driving for them. He leaves today for a week of training. Please pray for him as "anxiety" is his other middle name! And then the best news is he and Danielle are expecting a precious baby. They are both thrilled and on Friday, he heard the baby's heartbeat for the first time. He said it was awesome! So I gained two more grandchildren with Natalie and Oliver and now will add another! That equals 9 grandchildren for me!!!! How blessed am I? Can't wait for another baby to hold!
*Note - Did I tell you Libby is getting married on August 30? So I'm gaining a new son-in-law too and his name is Tim! Blessings continue!
OK, it's Thursday now. Spent most of the day completing the tasks I began earlier this week. And then got ready to attend the St. Matthews Baptist Church Women's Summer Pot Luck Supper. I love "pot luck" meals. You can taste some amazing things! Fabulous salads, delicious corn pudding, enchilada pie, CANDY BAR CAKE!!!!!, fresh blackberry cobbler and on and on! YUMMY! A cookbook is being prepared with all the recipes. And the best part was seeing so many friends I had not had the opportunity to be with in some time. I saw Madeline and her incredible daughter Sam. Sat next to new friend Pat and a friend of many years, Debbie and her wonderful daughter Amanda! Missed all of them so much! Fabulous evening! Thank you to Cinda and her great team! I love you all!
(I know this is long, but it was a very "releasing" and "revealing" week!)
Friday morning - Oh my! Went downstairs and stepped on carpet that squished under my feet! Not a good start! Called the maintenance number immediately and 5 minutes later someone is knocking at my door. (This happened once before right after I moved in and it was the furnace/ac unit with a clogged pipe.) This squishy carpet is on the other side of the dining room, far away from the furnace/ac unit. What now??????? BTW, I'm not happy! It appears the townhouse next door had a water line break and it came over to my place. Whatever...JUST FIX IT!!!!! So it began with the removal of the carpet padding, mopping up, water extraction from carpet, and huge fan under the carpet to dry it all. I hate messes and just when I was about to have everything in order! And I have Handsome fella' coming for dinner. It is what it is! They will be back Monday morning to complete the task. So, since I am not happy (that my friends is an understatement!), I asked if the "guys" could make time that day to hang my wall art. Why yes, we can certainly do that! (Funny how things happen!) Anyway, I have this very tall and dimly lit stairwell. Several weeks ago I asked them to move the dining room light fixture (a brushed nickel drop light that did not allow my dining room table and china cabinet to be placed as I wanted them in the dining room) to the stairwell and move the basic ceiling light from the stairwell to the dining room. They did that and then I proceeded to create a wall hanging. The center piece is old fabric from things I've made over the years, pieced together with other "things" that make me smile. One of my favorite add-ons is two pink rubber breast cancer bracelets to remind me of my dear friends Joyce and Cinda as they prepare for their third 3-day, 60 mile walk this year in Philadelphia. I think and pray for them each time I go up and down the stairs! On each side of this fabric collage is a sari HC Baker brought me from India. So the maintenance guys brought one of those very cool ladders that allow you to make the legs adjust to the height you need, and they proceeded to hang the rod to hold my wall art. They got everything up and hanging and OH MY GOODNESS, it looks FABULOUS! I wish all of you could see it! I'm very happy and it made me forget my dining room looked like crap! So my dinner was successful and Handsome fella' enjoyed it! (Fresh tomato and cottage cheese, country ham, lima beans, new potatoes, fresh peach cobbler and peach ice cream! Delicious!)
So now it's Saturday! You're gonna' love this day! Handsome fella' calls and asks what are my plans for the day. I don't really have any so I'm open to suggestions. He asks if I'd like to go to the Forecastle Music Festival. I've heard so much about it over the years and never attended so yes, I'd like to go. (He'd never been either.) So off we went. I'm smiling as I write this because I have NEVER in my life seen so many "sights". There were very creative costumes, some really old hippies and really young teenagers, body parts that would have been better covered, clothes or lack thereof, tiny babies carried on daddys' backs, barefooted folks (oh my!), and anything else you could possibly imagine. OH and I used a porta-potty and sat on the ground! Quite something for me! My list of the most viewed wardrobe pieces and accessories include boots - any kind from muck boots to combat boots, hair bands of ribbons, flowers, kerchiefs, etc., worn wrapped around the head "hippie" style, anything that could reveal too much skin, hats, and TATTOOS! Lots of tattoos! Huge tattoos! Arms covered in tattoos, backs covered in tattoos, legs and ankles covered in tattoos, and the list goes on! The "people watching" was worth the price of admission! And it's VERY expensive to go (glad I wasn't paying!) I'm still smiling because we had a great time! Laughing is one of the things that makes your heart happy and Handsome fella' and I always laugh together. And yesterday was full of laughs. Oh, and the music was great too. (Unfortunately, I was not familiar with many of the entertainers but liked the sounds, most of them. The closing act last night was Jack White and I got excited because I thought it was Jack Black and I knew of him!!! (My grandchildren just groaned!!!!)
So that was my week! The good and the bad, the old and the new, the laughter and the tears, remembering the past and making new memories. At least my life is never boring!
Love to you all for being a part of my life! xxoo
Prayer requests - Friends Rick and Barbara still battling health issues, friend MG who will have surgery at the end of the month, TR Baker, Danielle, Natalie, Oliver and new baby - lots of new experiences for all of them, friend CH has sold her home and now faces the "where to go" decision, and pray for a great week for yourselves!
Sunday, July 6, 2014
Collecting Coupons!!!!
I admit several times over my "home making" years I have tried the "coupon" thing! One time I even bought a colorful little hand held file for organizing them. It just never worked out for me. I'd be at the grocery and the coupons were home OR I'd have them with me, find the appropriate one only to realize at the check-out, my coupon had expired! Most often I'd just forget.
So here I am now, a poor widow woman on a fixed income! I was determined to make this "coupon" thing work. First of all I had no idea you got so many coupons in the mail. I must get these insert type things several times a week. Don't believe I got them at my p.o. box up north. The Postmistress must have "cleansed" my daily deliveries. Anyway, I decided to go for it all! I read EVERY piece of paper and cut-out (most often tear a straight edge along the kitchen counter) every coupon that could possibly benefit me. Not only am I watching for grocery store coupons, but restaurants, oil changes for my car, and waiting hopefully for shoe store coupons!!!!
So last week I find three coupons for various dinner/entree/dollar off deals at Bob Evans. Well today, Handsome Fella' asked me out for breakfast. Once we were in the car and on our way, I suggest to him we go to Bob Evans because I have a coupon. FYI...I checked before I left my place to make sure it had not expired. It's good until July 31!!!! I've got this! The coupon reads buy one entree and get one free!!!! Handsome Fella' laughs and tells me Bob Evans is fine. We had a delicious breakfast and as always, great conversation. Time to pay the bill. I get the coupon out and am so proud of myself that I actually remembered to bring it! NOTE - Handsome Fella' has never had any experience with any kind of coupon and has NEVER needed (or wanted) to use a coupon! He leaves to pay the bill and comes back a few minutes with the coupon. He points out to me that under the expiration date is a "condition" that this coupon is not to be used on Sundays!!!! He said it's bad enough he offered the coupon but then to be told they couldn't accept it was a double "wammy"! Now everyone behind him in line is questioning his intelligence! I burst out laughing and so did he.
Just when I thought I was so smart, helpful and working hard to watch my budget, I discovered there's more to a coupon than an expiration date! Doubtful I'll be able to share another coupon "windfall" with Handsome Fella'!!!
Laugh every day! xxoo
So here I am now, a poor widow woman on a fixed income! I was determined to make this "coupon" thing work. First of all I had no idea you got so many coupons in the mail. I must get these insert type things several times a week. Don't believe I got them at my p.o. box up north. The Postmistress must have "cleansed" my daily deliveries. Anyway, I decided to go for it all! I read EVERY piece of paper and cut-out (most often tear a straight edge along the kitchen counter) every coupon that could possibly benefit me. Not only am I watching for grocery store coupons, but restaurants, oil changes for my car, and waiting hopefully for shoe store coupons!!!!
So last week I find three coupons for various dinner/entree/dollar off deals at Bob Evans. Well today, Handsome Fella' asked me out for breakfast. Once we were in the car and on our way, I suggest to him we go to Bob Evans because I have a coupon. FYI...I checked before I left my place to make sure it had not expired. It's good until July 31!!!! I've got this! The coupon reads buy one entree and get one free!!!! Handsome Fella' laughs and tells me Bob Evans is fine. We had a delicious breakfast and as always, great conversation. Time to pay the bill. I get the coupon out and am so proud of myself that I actually remembered to bring it! NOTE - Handsome Fella' has never had any experience with any kind of coupon and has NEVER needed (or wanted) to use a coupon! He leaves to pay the bill and comes back a few minutes with the coupon. He points out to me that under the expiration date is a "condition" that this coupon is not to be used on Sundays!!!! He said it's bad enough he offered the coupon but then to be told they couldn't accept it was a double "wammy"! Now everyone behind him in line is questioning his intelligence! I burst out laughing and so did he.
Just when I thought I was so smart, helpful and working hard to watch my budget, I discovered there's more to a coupon than an expiration date! Doubtful I'll be able to share another coupon "windfall" with Handsome Fella'!!!
Laugh every day! xxoo
Monday, June 30, 2014
A Two Week Anniversary Celebration!!!!
Two weeks ago today the temperature rose to the highest of the summer...95! And it was my moving day! This time then, the movers were gone and I sat down on my new living room floor and cried. Not sure why, but I did. Maybe it was because I was overheated, confused, concerned, overwhelmed, or just plain tired. And my dogs looked at me as if to say, "Where have you taken us now?". Well, this is our home for the next 12 months (at least that's the plan!).
We are in a town home in the Hurstbourne Lane and Plainview neighborhood, a new neighborhood to me. Haven't been a "renter" in quite some time. A few of my worst moments in the first few days included water all over the laundry room floor coming from my brand new washer on it's "test" run, very early one morning barefooted, I stepped down the bottom step to the living room and my feet "squished" on the carpet, the alarm pushed it's own panic button while I was in the shower (what a sound that was!), cannot, repeat, cannot get the upstairs TV to work and the workman was here as well as the salesman who sold me the service (???????), and all by myself I, Jo Ann Baker, killed a gigantic spider AND picked its' remains up from the floor using nearly an entire roll of paper towels!!!!!!
Now for a few of my better moments! I have been to the grocery store twice (Kroger and Lucky's), prepared two delicious dinners for a very appreciative and hungry handsome fella', decorated a fabulous bedroom for myself (first time to create a bedroom with only ME in mind), have my furniture reasonably situated and pictures hanging on the walls, started on a huge wall hanging for the stairwell, preparing to paint a pretty large painting for the dining room, had a few family and friends over to "see" my nearly finished place, been out to dinner at some wonderful, local restaurants in the Nulu area courtesy of handsome fella', hugged and been hugged by lots of friends I had not seen in some time, and last Saturday night, sang My Old Kentucky Home on the stage of the Stephen Foster Story with the cast!!!! I've had two very exciting weeks.
And the excitement is not over yet! Libby is getting married!!!!!! She and Tim have been together for some time and live on a farm in Georgetown, IN. They will be married on the farm Labor Day weekend...with the horses, pigmy donkeys, and dogs! It will be interesting to see how many of the animals will be wearing flowers!
Tomorrow is July 1st! Hard to believe June is very nearly over. If you're still trying to decide what to do this summer, you'd better hurry up!!!! By the way, Larnelle Harris is performing tomorrow night (July 1) at St. Matthews Baptist Church! Tickets are still available. It's sure to be a wonderful evening.
Happy Summer and much love to all of you! xxoo
Just learned today, a sweet friend of mine lost her husband today after he suffered a stroke several weeks ago. Please pray for Jeanine. And thank you for your prayers for my dear friend Barbara and her husband Rick. Rick is in remission but having a few heart rhythm problems. Barbara is working toward the end of her 100 days (Aug 8) and doing well. And my wonderful friend Christy...SOLD HER HOUSE!!!!!!
Always pray! God always listens!
And yes, I want to spend the rest of my life laughing!!!!
We are in a town home in the Hurstbourne Lane and Plainview neighborhood, a new neighborhood to me. Haven't been a "renter" in quite some time. A few of my worst moments in the first few days included water all over the laundry room floor coming from my brand new washer on it's "test" run, very early one morning barefooted, I stepped down the bottom step to the living room and my feet "squished" on the carpet, the alarm pushed it's own panic button while I was in the shower (what a sound that was!), cannot, repeat, cannot get the upstairs TV to work and the workman was here as well as the salesman who sold me the service (???????), and all by myself I, Jo Ann Baker, killed a gigantic spider AND picked its' remains up from the floor using nearly an entire roll of paper towels!!!!!!
Now for a few of my better moments! I have been to the grocery store twice (Kroger and Lucky's), prepared two delicious dinners for a very appreciative and hungry handsome fella', decorated a fabulous bedroom for myself (first time to create a bedroom with only ME in mind), have my furniture reasonably situated and pictures hanging on the walls, started on a huge wall hanging for the stairwell, preparing to paint a pretty large painting for the dining room, had a few family and friends over to "see" my nearly finished place, been out to dinner at some wonderful, local restaurants in the Nulu area courtesy of handsome fella', hugged and been hugged by lots of friends I had not seen in some time, and last Saturday night, sang My Old Kentucky Home on the stage of the Stephen Foster Story with the cast!!!! I've had two very exciting weeks.
And the excitement is not over yet! Libby is getting married!!!!!! She and Tim have been together for some time and live on a farm in Georgetown, IN. They will be married on the farm Labor Day weekend...with the horses, pigmy donkeys, and dogs! It will be interesting to see how many of the animals will be wearing flowers!
Tomorrow is July 1st! Hard to believe June is very nearly over. If you're still trying to decide what to do this summer, you'd better hurry up!!!! By the way, Larnelle Harris is performing tomorrow night (July 1) at St. Matthews Baptist Church! Tickets are still available. It's sure to be a wonderful evening.
Happy Summer and much love to all of you! xxoo
Just learned today, a sweet friend of mine lost her husband today after he suffered a stroke several weeks ago. Please pray for Jeanine. And thank you for your prayers for my dear friend Barbara and her husband Rick. Rick is in remission but having a few heart rhythm problems. Barbara is working toward the end of her 100 days (Aug 8) and doing well. And my wonderful friend Christy...SOLD HER HOUSE!!!!!!
Always pray! God always listens!
And yes, I want to spend the rest of my life laughing!!!!
Wednesday, June 11, 2014
A letter to HC Baker...
Dear HC Baker,
I hate this day. It's been four years. When I remember this day I struggle with everything that came before the storm. I remember I worked that day. I was trying to get ten hours of work crammed into five so I could leave and get home and we could drive to Michigan. I knew you were probably already home, packed and waiting patiently for me. You always had to wait for me. You also knew there was a good chance I hadn't packed yet. So that would be another delay to our departure.
I do remember we were excited to get away. The preceding year had been a rough one and even though we had actually spent more time together than normal, those hours were spent in hospitals. As difficult as that time was, the rejoicing moments as well as the frustrating, frightening, and heartbreaking moments were finally tender memories.
I finally made it home, packed, straightened the house, left directions for those who would come and attend the house in our absence (TR Baker), and then off we went. Who knew?
What did we talk about during the drive? Did I tell you I loved you? Did we laugh (probably)? Did I reach over and touch you? After the accident and the car had come to rest, were you already gone from me? Did you hear me shouting your name? I do remember I did touch your leg, actually shook it, trying to get you to look at me even though I couldn't see your face. Did you hurt for me knowing you were leaving me alone? Did any of it make any difference to you anymore? Had you already seen the face of God? I wonder these things.
I miss your smile. I miss your hugs, you were famous for them. Hey, by the way, there's a new kid at church and his name is Jeremy. You'd like him and he gives an HC Baker kind of hug. I saw him last night and got one. It reminded me of you.
I want you to know my faith is much stronger. Can't imagine how I would have survived this without it. This time four years ago we were just about to leave Louisville, together, the two of us. And I came back alone. I'll be up all night tonight. I haven't slept this night in four years. It'd be nice if you could let me know you're happy and also, I'd like to know you think I'm doing OK.
I miss you. Forever loved,
JB
I hate this day. It's been four years. When I remember this day I struggle with everything that came before the storm. I remember I worked that day. I was trying to get ten hours of work crammed into five so I could leave and get home and we could drive to Michigan. I knew you were probably already home, packed and waiting patiently for me. You always had to wait for me. You also knew there was a good chance I hadn't packed yet. So that would be another delay to our departure.
I do remember we were excited to get away. The preceding year had been a rough one and even though we had actually spent more time together than normal, those hours were spent in hospitals. As difficult as that time was, the rejoicing moments as well as the frustrating, frightening, and heartbreaking moments were finally tender memories.
I finally made it home, packed, straightened the house, left directions for those who would come and attend the house in our absence (TR Baker), and then off we went. Who knew?
What did we talk about during the drive? Did I tell you I loved you? Did we laugh (probably)? Did I reach over and touch you? After the accident and the car had come to rest, were you already gone from me? Did you hear me shouting your name? I do remember I did touch your leg, actually shook it, trying to get you to look at me even though I couldn't see your face. Did you hurt for me knowing you were leaving me alone? Did any of it make any difference to you anymore? Had you already seen the face of God? I wonder these things.
I miss your smile. I miss your hugs, you were famous for them. Hey, by the way, there's a new kid at church and his name is Jeremy. You'd like him and he gives an HC Baker kind of hug. I saw him last night and got one. It reminded me of you.
I want you to know my faith is much stronger. Can't imagine how I would have survived this without it. This time four years ago we were just about to leave Louisville, together, the two of us. And I came back alone. I'll be up all night tonight. I haven't slept this night in four years. It'd be nice if you could let me know you're happy and also, I'd like to know you think I'm doing OK.
I miss you. Forever loved,
JB
Monday, June 2, 2014
Another Birthday!
I have a friend I call DB and she celebrates her birthday for a month! I've always enjoyed celebrating my birthday every day of the week preceding. Each day or evening HC Baker presented me with something wonderful to do. Maybe it was a meal at a special restaurant, an event we would attend, or being with friends and family! Since he died my birthday has always been a struggle. I've tried to entertain myself, get my "social" calendar filled, have my own party (often ended up being the "pity" type), go to dinner at wonderful places or more often, buy shoes.
So here I am waiting to move into my own home. My "stuff" is stored and I have my personal belongings thrown everywhere. My wonderful sister Linda and dear friend CH have opened their homes to me and been so gracious. I am so blessed by my friends and family. And so many of you sent me birthday greetings. As I read each one, I could see your face and remember times we have laughed together. Thank you to all of you who thought of me today. Friends and family are the two most important things we have. A very dear friend of mine reminds me that all we'll leave behind is memories so we need to be making the best ones we can.
I can definitely say this year's birthday was the best one I've had in many years. Something exciting and wonderful happened every day. I met with friends, talked with friends, had dinner with friends and totally enjoyed life. I had never been to the U of L Patterson baseball stadium so I went to all the regional games, Friday, Saturday and Sunday!!!!! And to make things interesting we had to evacuate the stadium several times due to weather, quite a few rain delays, and clear the stadium after each game even though we had tickets for the next game in the same seats! And I had the privilege of sitting next to my wonderful friend RB, a former baseball star! I was kept very well-informed about all the actions on the field. And tonight pitching in the game for U of L was Josh Rogers, the freshman grandson of a great friend! How much more exciting could it get?
This morning I went to church!!!! It's been on my "to do" list since I came back to Louisville but I must admit, I was struggling with it. So today, on Youth Sunday, I went. My dear friend Christy went with me. (I needed support!) What a service, and how wonderful it was to see so many friends, young and not so young!!!!!! And I love looking at those young faces and seeing such bright futures written in their smiles. The message was brought to us by two seniors, Hannah and William! WOW! And if you see any of it on TV, I'm sure I'm in the "selfie" William captured! Inspiring message, beautiful music, and the message of HOPE! Exactly what each of us needed to hear!
I've had lots of questions about my dear friend RB. Here's what you need to know. RB and I dated forty plus years ago. Then I married and so did he. As you all know, nearly four years ago, HC Baker died. Nearly two year ago, RB's wife died. Quite by accident, we re-connected and here's what I've discovered. This "widow/widower" thing sucks. And it's hard for many to be able to relate to the feelings of the heart when you've lost your best friend. But what is a blessing is to find someone who understands exactly what you're feeling. Everyone grieves at their own pace, in their own way. Being able to share those feelings eases your burden. And RB and I can talk freely about our spouses. We each spent quite a few years living with someone we loved unconditionally. So now we each have found someone else we can talk to about all those emotions. And boy, it can get very emotional. We're not afraid to enjoy our memories with each other. We can cry with each other. We can understand what the other person feels. And we can laugh! That's what we spend a lot of time doing and laughing is so very good for you. We each have 3 adult children, two daughters and one son, and incredible grandchildren. We talk about them a lot! (If they read this, I can hear a very loud groan from each of them. Then the phone will ring and they will want to know what we said about them! Neither of us will ever tell!) His friendship is very dear to me. So here it is...We're friends writing the next chapter of our lives.
My 67th birthday has been nearly perfect. The only thing I would have wished for was to have all my children and grandchildren with me. And we could have made more wonderful memories!
Today I thank all of you who embraced me, shared your hearts with me and sent your smiles. xxoo
So here I am waiting to move into my own home. My "stuff" is stored and I have my personal belongings thrown everywhere. My wonderful sister Linda and dear friend CH have opened their homes to me and been so gracious. I am so blessed by my friends and family. And so many of you sent me birthday greetings. As I read each one, I could see your face and remember times we have laughed together. Thank you to all of you who thought of me today. Friends and family are the two most important things we have. A very dear friend of mine reminds me that all we'll leave behind is memories so we need to be making the best ones we can.
I can definitely say this year's birthday was the best one I've had in many years. Something exciting and wonderful happened every day. I met with friends, talked with friends, had dinner with friends and totally enjoyed life. I had never been to the U of L Patterson baseball stadium so I went to all the regional games, Friday, Saturday and Sunday!!!!! And to make things interesting we had to evacuate the stadium several times due to weather, quite a few rain delays, and clear the stadium after each game even though we had tickets for the next game in the same seats! And I had the privilege of sitting next to my wonderful friend RB, a former baseball star! I was kept very well-informed about all the actions on the field. And tonight pitching in the game for U of L was Josh Rogers, the freshman grandson of a great friend! How much more exciting could it get?
This morning I went to church!!!! It's been on my "to do" list since I came back to Louisville but I must admit, I was struggling with it. So today, on Youth Sunday, I went. My dear friend Christy went with me. (I needed support!) What a service, and how wonderful it was to see so many friends, young and not so young!!!!!! And I love looking at those young faces and seeing such bright futures written in their smiles. The message was brought to us by two seniors, Hannah and William! WOW! And if you see any of it on TV, I'm sure I'm in the "selfie" William captured! Inspiring message, beautiful music, and the message of HOPE! Exactly what each of us needed to hear!
I've had lots of questions about my dear friend RB. Here's what you need to know. RB and I dated forty plus years ago. Then I married and so did he. As you all know, nearly four years ago, HC Baker died. Nearly two year ago, RB's wife died. Quite by accident, we re-connected and here's what I've discovered. This "widow/widower" thing sucks. And it's hard for many to be able to relate to the feelings of the heart when you've lost your best friend. But what is a blessing is to find someone who understands exactly what you're feeling. Everyone grieves at their own pace, in their own way. Being able to share those feelings eases your burden. And RB and I can talk freely about our spouses. We each spent quite a few years living with someone we loved unconditionally. So now we each have found someone else we can talk to about all those emotions. And boy, it can get very emotional. We're not afraid to enjoy our memories with each other. We can cry with each other. We can understand what the other person feels. And we can laugh! That's what we spend a lot of time doing and laughing is so very good for you. We each have 3 adult children, two daughters and one son, and incredible grandchildren. We talk about them a lot! (If they read this, I can hear a very loud groan from each of them. Then the phone will ring and they will want to know what we said about them! Neither of us will ever tell!) His friendship is very dear to me. So here it is...We're friends writing the next chapter of our lives.
My 67th birthday has been nearly perfect. The only thing I would have wished for was to have all my children and grandchildren with me. And we could have made more wonderful memories!
Today I thank all of you who embraced me, shared your hearts with me and sent your smiles. xxoo
Thursday, May 22, 2014
It's been FIVE weeks today!
My goodness! Yes, five weeks ago today the movers came and emptied the big grey house. Since then I have been on a roller coaster like no other. How many ups and downs can one person endure? Well, the answer is plenty.
My household "stuff" is in storage and my personal things are with me. I finally found a box full of my handbags. When the movers brought my things to Louisville and transferred them to another trailer, I kept watching for my box of hats. Never found them, so I guess they are with the pots and pans! Living out of cardboard boxes, file boxes, shopping bags, rubbermaid trunks, and suitcases is not easy. Right now my shoes are in the garage. At least I know where they are, right?
My first two and a half weeks in Louisville were spent at my dear friend Christy's. We had a wonderful time being room mates. Each day when one of us returned to her home, we'd open the door and shout, "Honey, I'm home!" She took me to the new (to me) COSTCO. What a trip. Then one day I went to the local Kroger store for her. Now that was an experience. I was use to being the only person on an aisle at Ken's Village Market. Not so at the Kroger store. And those people can be dangerous. Lots of carts on the same aisle at the same time. You gotta' watch out and often get out of the way! I'm going to have to time my grocery shopping better...maybe at 2am????
I had a wonderful Derby. It had been several years since I was able to enjoy any of the city-wide festivities. Once Derby was over, I moved to my sister Linda and her husband Bill's home. (Couldn't come before because my bed was being used by a Derby guest!) So now I'm here, and my stuff is everywhere.
Of course, I want to purchase a home and have looked at quite a few. Rather than rush into buying something, I have signed a lease to rent a town home. It's really quite nice with two bedrooms and two and a half baths AND an attached garage!!!! The idea of a garage is great because if I can't get all my "stuff" in the town home, I can store it in the garage. The good news is at least it will all be together once I do find a home. The bad news is I'll be moving again within 12-24 months. I'm kinda tired of moving but I feel I've made the right decision. I am blessed by good advice and direction from my friends and family.
Last weekend I flew back to Topinabee to see Gracie's ballet recital. I'm sure most of you saw the photos I posted on FB. It was a terrific trip. Emily and Garrett were both sick, so I stayed with my dear friend Kathy. Her home is so lovely, full of beautiful antiques. On Friday night, my up north Thursday dinner group had a going away dinner for me. They have all been good friends to me. I got terrific cards and great gifts. My friend Beverly made me FIVE beautifully decorated Derby hats. I'm set! How kind they were to me. It was a joy to see them again. On Saturday and Sunday, we had the recitals. Sunday was my day to stay backstage with Gracie and help with her five costume changes. She had decided earlier in the year this would be the last year she would need backstage help. Needless to say, I was thrilled to have that opportunity. Sunday night, Emily cooked a wonderful dinner for her family and TR Baker's family who drove over from Petoskey. We had a great evening. I believe any mother's favorite moments are spent when her entire family is together. We missed Libby and her gang, but they were in my heart. Arrived home safely with a full heart and many new and very special memories.
So what now? I will move into my town home mid-June. I'm looking for a job and have spoken with several people about possibilities. I'm looking to work in a position where I will be meeting and building relationships with other people...possibly selling (what I've always done). But I'm open to anything and everything if you know of an opening. I want to be passionate about what I do, I want to love what I sell, and I want to meet new people and face new challenges.
I'm having fun seeing my home city again and all the changes that have taken place in my absence. I have a dear special friend who entertains me with these tours and often dinner and most importantly, laughter!
Love to you all, thank you for your thoughts and prayers, and I look forward to seeing you soon.
Please remember all our military personnel and their families this weekend, those who have gone before us, those who serve us now and those who will soon join.
xxoo
My household "stuff" is in storage and my personal things are with me. I finally found a box full of my handbags. When the movers brought my things to Louisville and transferred them to another trailer, I kept watching for my box of hats. Never found them, so I guess they are with the pots and pans! Living out of cardboard boxes, file boxes, shopping bags, rubbermaid trunks, and suitcases is not easy. Right now my shoes are in the garage. At least I know where they are, right?
My first two and a half weeks in Louisville were spent at my dear friend Christy's. We had a wonderful time being room mates. Each day when one of us returned to her home, we'd open the door and shout, "Honey, I'm home!" She took me to the new (to me) COSTCO. What a trip. Then one day I went to the local Kroger store for her. Now that was an experience. I was use to being the only person on an aisle at Ken's Village Market. Not so at the Kroger store. And those people can be dangerous. Lots of carts on the same aisle at the same time. You gotta' watch out and often get out of the way! I'm going to have to time my grocery shopping better...maybe at 2am????
I had a wonderful Derby. It had been several years since I was able to enjoy any of the city-wide festivities. Once Derby was over, I moved to my sister Linda and her husband Bill's home. (Couldn't come before because my bed was being used by a Derby guest!) So now I'm here, and my stuff is everywhere.
Of course, I want to purchase a home and have looked at quite a few. Rather than rush into buying something, I have signed a lease to rent a town home. It's really quite nice with two bedrooms and two and a half baths AND an attached garage!!!! The idea of a garage is great because if I can't get all my "stuff" in the town home, I can store it in the garage. The good news is at least it will all be together once I do find a home. The bad news is I'll be moving again within 12-24 months. I'm kinda tired of moving but I feel I've made the right decision. I am blessed by good advice and direction from my friends and family.
Last weekend I flew back to Topinabee to see Gracie's ballet recital. I'm sure most of you saw the photos I posted on FB. It was a terrific trip. Emily and Garrett were both sick, so I stayed with my dear friend Kathy. Her home is so lovely, full of beautiful antiques. On Friday night, my up north Thursday dinner group had a going away dinner for me. They have all been good friends to me. I got terrific cards and great gifts. My friend Beverly made me FIVE beautifully decorated Derby hats. I'm set! How kind they were to me. It was a joy to see them again. On Saturday and Sunday, we had the recitals. Sunday was my day to stay backstage with Gracie and help with her five costume changes. She had decided earlier in the year this would be the last year she would need backstage help. Needless to say, I was thrilled to have that opportunity. Sunday night, Emily cooked a wonderful dinner for her family and TR Baker's family who drove over from Petoskey. We had a great evening. I believe any mother's favorite moments are spent when her entire family is together. We missed Libby and her gang, but they were in my heart. Arrived home safely with a full heart and many new and very special memories.
So what now? I will move into my town home mid-June. I'm looking for a job and have spoken with several people about possibilities. I'm looking to work in a position where I will be meeting and building relationships with other people...possibly selling (what I've always done). But I'm open to anything and everything if you know of an opening. I want to be passionate about what I do, I want to love what I sell, and I want to meet new people and face new challenges.
I'm having fun seeing my home city again and all the changes that have taken place in my absence. I have a dear special friend who entertains me with these tours and often dinner and most importantly, laughter!
Love to you all, thank you for your thoughts and prayers, and I look forward to seeing you soon.
Please remember all our military personnel and their families this weekend, those who have gone before us, those who serve us now and those who will soon join.
xxoo
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