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!!!!
Monday, June 30, 2014
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
Wednesday, April 23, 2014
All's well that ends well...I think!
First of all, Maggie's surgery went very well and she is back with Nutty and me. She's still a little unsure of her footing but was starving and ate what little I was told to give her. They sent the tumor off (where exactly is "off"?) and we'll hear in a few days. I also have some pain pills for her. (What happens if people take doggie pain pills?)
Now back to the scene of the crime!
Last Thursday I survived yet another move BACK to Louisville, Kentucky, just in time for all the Derby festivities. The movers arrived at 11:30am and finished around 5:30. I made a bee-line for the kennel where the girls had spent the night, loaded them up, and headed south. Got on the road close to 6pm and arrived at Hotel Christy at 2:15am. When I arrived I was wearing a turtleneck, fleece vest, wool socks, my boots and had a coat on the seat beside me. WHEW! Came out of that fast! It was a fabulous experience! No snow, warm temperatures, trees budding (in the few short days I've been here, they now have leaves), blooming flowers everywhere, dogwoods and red buds absolutely glorious. I have been sitting out by the pool!!!!! Can you believe it? There were a few difficult good-byes on moving day, especially TR Baker and Brett. I seriously miss them but know they are both strong men and can survive without me! Ha! Ha!
So here I am. I "lazed" away Friday and most of Saturday. Spent some time with my sister Linda and husband Bill and then had dinner at daughter Libby's home to celebrate my oldest grandson, Daniel's birthday. He is now 23! How did that happen? Sunday I planned to attend the SONrise service at my church and actually got up to go. Realized I just was not ready for that. I had my own SONrise service out by the pool with the dogs and watched the sun rise. Spent quite some time thanking God for so much! I know all of you did too. We are all very blessed. Enjoyed Sunday brunch with Christy and her family. Food and fellowship top notch. Then Sunday night joined sisters Linda and Mary for dinner.
Monday began the errand day. I took the dogs to our new Vet, Dr. Mary, because I saw that Maggie was growing something under her right front leg. Dr. Mary said it needed to come off as quickly as possible. She couldn't do it on Tuesday but could on Wednesday. Oh my! So I put that on my calendar. Got a lot of running done on Monday. Also found and tried out a close-by doggie daycare. Not sure my girls liked it but the people were so lovely and received their new guests with open arms. When I went to pick them up I was told they behaved so well and enjoyed playing with the other doggies. I kinda doubt that but appreciated the compliments.
So Tuesday arrives with my moving truck from Michigan. Since I don't have a home yet, the movers had to "move" my things from one trailer to another where they will be stored until my next homecoming! Honestly, yesterday went on all too long! And I was able to grab a few things off the moving truck and transfer to my car for spring use. By the time I got home I was too tired to bring them into Christy's home (plus my "suite" looks as if a tornado ran through it!). So this morning my car was still full of my "stuff".
Maggie had to be at the surgery office by 8am and could not eat anything for breakfast. Nutty was going to doggie daycare and needed to eat breakfast. So after I dropped off Maggie, I went to drop off Nutty. Before I took her in, I parked over near the grassy area, took out her food bowl and fed her. Also, since it was a little cool today and I was actually working today, I needed some sort of a jacket. So while Nutty ate her breakfast, I was rummaging through the back of my car looking for a vest or jacket. I was startled when a lovely older woman came up to me and asked if I was alright. I turned to her and said yes I was fine. How was she? She then asked me if I was really alright. Then it dawned on me, she thought I was a homeless person. I laughed and explained why my dog was eating her breakfast in a parking lot and she laughed and said she was so relieved. So started my morning! I went on to work. The vet called to tell me Maggie was out of surgery and doing fine. I told them I would pick her up around 5pm. So my workday continued - such a lovely day to be out! Then around 4:30 I decided it was time for me to head out and get Maggie. I cut across Goose Creek Road to Hwy 22. Did not realize the speed limit was 35!!!!!!! I was pulled over by a policeman and told I was going 47. He asked for my license and proof of insurance. I had both! I told him I had just moved here last Thursday and my dog had surgery, and no, I didn't know the speed limit was 35 and I was very sorry. He said I had 30 days to get a Kentucky license. I said I know. He asked what my new address was and I told him I didn't have an address just yet and was staying with my sister (didn't want to involve my friend Christy). He said why don't you write down your sister's address, so I did. Then he went back to his car. I hollared at him to ask if this would take very long because I had to pick up my dog. He didn't answer! He came back to my car later and asked if he could ask me a question. I said of course (can you say "no" to a police officer?) and he asked me if I was living in my car. Lord help me!
So in the same day...
Twice mistaken for homeless (I didn't look all that bad!)
$158 speeding ticket (35mph is too slow)
Maggie's surgery - PRICELESS!
Tomorrow is another day! Ain't that grand!
Love each and every one of you! You fill my heart!
xxoo
Now back to the scene of the crime!
Last Thursday I survived yet another move BACK to Louisville, Kentucky, just in time for all the Derby festivities. The movers arrived at 11:30am and finished around 5:30. I made a bee-line for the kennel where the girls had spent the night, loaded them up, and headed south. Got on the road close to 6pm and arrived at Hotel Christy at 2:15am. When I arrived I was wearing a turtleneck, fleece vest, wool socks, my boots and had a coat on the seat beside me. WHEW! Came out of that fast! It was a fabulous experience! No snow, warm temperatures, trees budding (in the few short days I've been here, they now have leaves), blooming flowers everywhere, dogwoods and red buds absolutely glorious. I have been sitting out by the pool!!!!! Can you believe it? There were a few difficult good-byes on moving day, especially TR Baker and Brett. I seriously miss them but know they are both strong men and can survive without me! Ha! Ha!
So here I am. I "lazed" away Friday and most of Saturday. Spent some time with my sister Linda and husband Bill and then had dinner at daughter Libby's home to celebrate my oldest grandson, Daniel's birthday. He is now 23! How did that happen? Sunday I planned to attend the SONrise service at my church and actually got up to go. Realized I just was not ready for that. I had my own SONrise service out by the pool with the dogs and watched the sun rise. Spent quite some time thanking God for so much! I know all of you did too. We are all very blessed. Enjoyed Sunday brunch with Christy and her family. Food and fellowship top notch. Then Sunday night joined sisters Linda and Mary for dinner.
Monday began the errand day. I took the dogs to our new Vet, Dr. Mary, because I saw that Maggie was growing something under her right front leg. Dr. Mary said it needed to come off as quickly as possible. She couldn't do it on Tuesday but could on Wednesday. Oh my! So I put that on my calendar. Got a lot of running done on Monday. Also found and tried out a close-by doggie daycare. Not sure my girls liked it but the people were so lovely and received their new guests with open arms. When I went to pick them up I was told they behaved so well and enjoyed playing with the other doggies. I kinda doubt that but appreciated the compliments.
So Tuesday arrives with my moving truck from Michigan. Since I don't have a home yet, the movers had to "move" my things from one trailer to another where they will be stored until my next homecoming! Honestly, yesterday went on all too long! And I was able to grab a few things off the moving truck and transfer to my car for spring use. By the time I got home I was too tired to bring them into Christy's home (plus my "suite" looks as if a tornado ran through it!). So this morning my car was still full of my "stuff".
Maggie had to be at the surgery office by 8am and could not eat anything for breakfast. Nutty was going to doggie daycare and needed to eat breakfast. So after I dropped off Maggie, I went to drop off Nutty. Before I took her in, I parked over near the grassy area, took out her food bowl and fed her. Also, since it was a little cool today and I was actually working today, I needed some sort of a jacket. So while Nutty ate her breakfast, I was rummaging through the back of my car looking for a vest or jacket. I was startled when a lovely older woman came up to me and asked if I was alright. I turned to her and said yes I was fine. How was she? She then asked me if I was really alright. Then it dawned on me, she thought I was a homeless person. I laughed and explained why my dog was eating her breakfast in a parking lot and she laughed and said she was so relieved. So started my morning! I went on to work. The vet called to tell me Maggie was out of surgery and doing fine. I told them I would pick her up around 5pm. So my workday continued - such a lovely day to be out! Then around 4:30 I decided it was time for me to head out and get Maggie. I cut across Goose Creek Road to Hwy 22. Did not realize the speed limit was 35!!!!!!! I was pulled over by a policeman and told I was going 47. He asked for my license and proof of insurance. I had both! I told him I had just moved here last Thursday and my dog had surgery, and no, I didn't know the speed limit was 35 and I was very sorry. He said I had 30 days to get a Kentucky license. I said I know. He asked what my new address was and I told him I didn't have an address just yet and was staying with my sister (didn't want to involve my friend Christy). He said why don't you write down your sister's address, so I did. Then he went back to his car. I hollared at him to ask if this would take very long because I had to pick up my dog. He didn't answer! He came back to my car later and asked if he could ask me a question. I said of course (can you say "no" to a police officer?) and he asked me if I was living in my car. Lord help me!
So in the same day...
Twice mistaken for homeless (I didn't look all that bad!)
$158 speeding ticket (35mph is too slow)
Maggie's surgery - PRICELESS!
Tomorrow is another day! Ain't that grand!
Love each and every one of you! You fill my heart!
xxoo
Tuesday, April 8, 2014
WOW!
I really don't know where to begin.
After a really quick trip to Louisville, here I sit wondering exactly what to do. I went to Louisville to see for the first time in person a house I was very interested it buying. At first sight I really loved the outside look of it and upon entering, loved the way it felt to me. Yes it needed LOTS of help, but I knew I was up to the task. An inspector arrived, and we began a walk-thru. When we went to the basement the nightmare began. There was water leaking from the wall, running down the wall, and heading for an open hole in the concrete floor. (I think it's time to tell you I really don't do basements even when they look great!) In addition to that, the furnace had not been serviced since 1999 AND a "bug" man arrived and was finding termite damage (no evidence of current termites - REALLY?????) in the floor joists and the main beam! HELP!!!! Let me out of here. I was told all this was certainly repairable. Believe it or not, after several more hours I decided I would buy this house. It had a great location, was the perfect size for me and I loved what I knew it could become.
I spent the next 24 hours working on solutions to these problems, met with the mortgage person, made the decision and headed back to Topinabee. Just a little north of Fort Wayne my conscience got the better of me and I got off the interstate, pulled into a gas station and listened to my brain. I had two men (HC Baker and a dear friend) screaming at me to think about what I was doing. Was this right for me? Was this the best investment of my money? Could there be another house out there that was a better fit with fewer problems? AND...SLOW DOWN!!!!!! So I made a call, sent a text or two and instantly felt better. I'm walking away from that house.
I think I was trying to make this fit to simplify my situation. I wanted to have my movers empty my home, drive my things south, then deliver them to my new home. Simple, yes! The right thing for me, no!
So...here I am this morning. I'm packing up my home. TR Baker will move the last of his things this weekend. My movers will come Thursday, 4/17 at 8am and load my belongings. They will deliver them to storage on Tuesday, 4/22. They've been stored before and will survive storage again.
I will sign the "selling" paperwork next Wednesday, move out on Thursday, clean out the door, spend the night with Emily, and drive south with Nutty and Maggie on Friday. This has all happened so fast. I'll stay with my dear friend Christy until after Derby (sister Linda's home is full of photographers in for Derby). I need to think and pray about my next interim address. I do have options and am grateful. I hope within 1-3 months I will find the perfect home for me.
I am eager to return to Louisville and see and hug all of you. I have been so blessed by your support and prayers. I'm grateful I do have options and especially grateful for the voices in my head!
And yes, I still have LOTS of snow on the ground but tomorrow (Wednesday) the temperature might reach 50!!!!!! There will be some serious melting going on!
Gotta' go! More boxes to fill! Happy Spring, Happy Tuesday, Happy Life! xxoo
After a really quick trip to Louisville, here I sit wondering exactly what to do. I went to Louisville to see for the first time in person a house I was very interested it buying. At first sight I really loved the outside look of it and upon entering, loved the way it felt to me. Yes it needed LOTS of help, but I knew I was up to the task. An inspector arrived, and we began a walk-thru. When we went to the basement the nightmare began. There was water leaking from the wall, running down the wall, and heading for an open hole in the concrete floor. (I think it's time to tell you I really don't do basements even when they look great!) In addition to that, the furnace had not been serviced since 1999 AND a "bug" man arrived and was finding termite damage (no evidence of current termites - REALLY?????) in the floor joists and the main beam! HELP!!!! Let me out of here. I was told all this was certainly repairable. Believe it or not, after several more hours I decided I would buy this house. It had a great location, was the perfect size for me and I loved what I knew it could become.
I spent the next 24 hours working on solutions to these problems, met with the mortgage person, made the decision and headed back to Topinabee. Just a little north of Fort Wayne my conscience got the better of me and I got off the interstate, pulled into a gas station and listened to my brain. I had two men (HC Baker and a dear friend) screaming at me to think about what I was doing. Was this right for me? Was this the best investment of my money? Could there be another house out there that was a better fit with fewer problems? AND...SLOW DOWN!!!!!! So I made a call, sent a text or two and instantly felt better. I'm walking away from that house.
I think I was trying to make this fit to simplify my situation. I wanted to have my movers empty my home, drive my things south, then deliver them to my new home. Simple, yes! The right thing for me, no!
So...here I am this morning. I'm packing up my home. TR Baker will move the last of his things this weekend. My movers will come Thursday, 4/17 at 8am and load my belongings. They will deliver them to storage on Tuesday, 4/22. They've been stored before and will survive storage again.
I will sign the "selling" paperwork next Wednesday, move out on Thursday, clean out the door, spend the night with Emily, and drive south with Nutty and Maggie on Friday. This has all happened so fast. I'll stay with my dear friend Christy until after Derby (sister Linda's home is full of photographers in for Derby). I need to think and pray about my next interim address. I do have options and am grateful. I hope within 1-3 months I will find the perfect home for me.
I am eager to return to Louisville and see and hug all of you. I have been so blessed by your support and prayers. I'm grateful I do have options and especially grateful for the voices in my head!
And yes, I still have LOTS of snow on the ground but tomorrow (Wednesday) the temperature might reach 50!!!!!! There will be some serious melting going on!
Gotta' go! More boxes to fill! Happy Spring, Happy Tuesday, Happy Life! xxoo
Sunday, March 30, 2014
A Very Difficult Task
As most of you know, I'm moving...again! In the past three and a half years I have sold four homes. That's hard for even me to believe. Now all I have to do is find another home. I'll leave here early Tuesday morning with the dogs and drive to Louisville. On Wednesday at 10am I will see this home I have written a contract on for the first time. At 11am I'll do a walk-thru with an inspector to verify my choice. I have my fingers crossed all will go well. I'll complete a few other chores and return home on Friday. A very short trip but a necessary one.
Yesterday was a busy day for me. I met with my mover and showed him what he will move. He moved me from Louisville up north and was the only person I would call to move me again. I trust him and his company with my personal belongings. And he is completely accommodating. He will get me where I want to be when I want to be there. Wouldn't it great to move from this home to the next with no storage issues? He also brought me lots of boxes, packing paper and tape. That's one problem solved. I also spoke with son-in-law Brett who told me the closing on this home will probably occur sooner rather than later. It could happen within 2-3 weeks. WOW! I'd better get packing! And TR Baker's friend, Danielle, moved from Traverse City to Petoskey into the home they will share. TR Baker will move next weekend. Things are happening pretty fast here and my heart is beginning to ache with the sadness and happiness of the future.
When I decided to sell my home, I spoke with all three children and asked them about their Dad's ashes. (They have been a guest on the bookshelf in the den since I moved into this home.) There were some conflicting responses. I decided to divide the ashes so that each child could have a part of their Dad. HC Baker loved wooden boxes. Over the years he had come into possession of quite a few. When he died I gave each grandchild one of the boxes filled with a few of their grandfather's special belongings. I kept three of the boxes that were special to me because I had given all three to him over the years. Now I needed a day alone, certain I would not be disturbed, and I chose today.
I gathered all three boxes and the original box holding HC Baker and brought them into the kitchen. I also got four heavy duty zip-lock bags. Now all I had to do was cut open the original bag and divide the ashes. Oh my. It took me quite a while to make that cut. I had no idea what these ashes would be like and how I was going to divide them. I got a measuring cup. At first the ashes were hard like they had become solid again. (I'm sure there's a wonderful analogy there but it's not in me today.) I got a spoon and began to loosen them. Slowly I filled each bag until it appeared everyone had the same amount, and then I placed each bag in their box. Next I went to my box of very personal memories of our life together and began to select HC Baker "stuff". I choose things he had written (all of us always teased him about his handwriting - very easy to identify), articles he had saved he enjoyed reading and re-reading, and photos of him. I arranged three groups of things, each one specifically and lovingly selected for them. I added "their" stack to their box plus a photo of HC Baker and me and closed each box. Done. I had no idea this task would be so difficult.
I heard from a dear friend today who said to tell HC Baker he's got my back! Grateful...
Yesterday was a busy day for me. I met with my mover and showed him what he will move. He moved me from Louisville up north and was the only person I would call to move me again. I trust him and his company with my personal belongings. And he is completely accommodating. He will get me where I want to be when I want to be there. Wouldn't it great to move from this home to the next with no storage issues? He also brought me lots of boxes, packing paper and tape. That's one problem solved. I also spoke with son-in-law Brett who told me the closing on this home will probably occur sooner rather than later. It could happen within 2-3 weeks. WOW! I'd better get packing! And TR Baker's friend, Danielle, moved from Traverse City to Petoskey into the home they will share. TR Baker will move next weekend. Things are happening pretty fast here and my heart is beginning to ache with the sadness and happiness of the future.
When I decided to sell my home, I spoke with all three children and asked them about their Dad's ashes. (They have been a guest on the bookshelf in the den since I moved into this home.) There were some conflicting responses. I decided to divide the ashes so that each child could have a part of their Dad. HC Baker loved wooden boxes. Over the years he had come into possession of quite a few. When he died I gave each grandchild one of the boxes filled with a few of their grandfather's special belongings. I kept three of the boxes that were special to me because I had given all three to him over the years. Now I needed a day alone, certain I would not be disturbed, and I chose today.
I gathered all three boxes and the original box holding HC Baker and brought them into the kitchen. I also got four heavy duty zip-lock bags. Now all I had to do was cut open the original bag and divide the ashes. Oh my. It took me quite a while to make that cut. I had no idea what these ashes would be like and how I was going to divide them. I got a measuring cup. At first the ashes were hard like they had become solid again. (I'm sure there's a wonderful analogy there but it's not in me today.) I got a spoon and began to loosen them. Slowly I filled each bag until it appeared everyone had the same amount, and then I placed each bag in their box. Next I went to my box of very personal memories of our life together and began to select HC Baker "stuff". I choose things he had written (all of us always teased him about his handwriting - very easy to identify), articles he had saved he enjoyed reading and re-reading, and photos of him. I arranged three groups of things, each one specifically and lovingly selected for them. I added "their" stack to their box plus a photo of HC Baker and me and closed each box. Done. I had no idea this task would be so difficult.
I heard from a dear friend today who said to tell HC Baker he's got my back! Grateful...
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