Belly Up

This little ball of fur keeps me hopping. I have to admit, I'm a bit impatient. Perhaps this is another test to help me grow in patience. 

I would like to have her housebroken in just a few days...however  I read it could take 6 months. I am hoping those writing that are of the same generation who would have their own children go off to school with  diapers that look like underpants.  I say, NO to newspaper,etc. I want her housebroken now...but it just isn't happening. One day I think she knows what she should do and the next, she seems confused about the whole thing.  I am following 'code', but not making much headway.

Throughout the day, as she takes little naps, I love to look down at my feet here at the computer and see the little thing sounds asleep.  It brings a loving warm feeling all over me, especially when she is so comfortable here that she can sleep belly up.

And thinking of  belly up...lately as  my hubby and I go into a store and see the outrageous prices that are climbing week by week, we get a sick feeling. How in the world are some people able to get by these days?  But we see people seemingly buying as they once did and filling restaurants even though many do not even have jobs. How do they  do it?  My guess is they are charging, expecting to pay some day. Look out for a crash...when there is no more credit. It is called going belly up. It's Scary.

Bittersweet

Yesterday, three of us girls had lunch together. It was the first time we had done that. For several years now, Karen and I have seen each other at Curves, not our favorite hangout, but one made more to our liking by Connie who has worked there faithfully and dependably for the last 9 years.

Over the years, we have talked about our goings and comings, our adventures, and day to day trivia. We have told our woes, We have consoled one another and laughed like crazy people.  

Connie and I share a special kinship.  She is my sister in Christ.

We will all miss her. She promises to come back and work out with us. And I'm hoping we'll plan many more lunches in the future.

Romans 7:4

So, my brothers and sisters, you also died to the law through the body of Christ, that you might belong to another, to him who was raised from the dead, in order that we might bear fruit for God.

Smiles

Smiles are contagious, but sadly, so are yawns ...and that is what we have around here tonight. We nearly shoved our company out the door because we were completely beat.  Today has been long. I've turned my ankle, thrown out my knee and pulled my back until. I'm quite the  miserable old lady righgt now. Even so, as I look at these pictures, my lips have formed a smile...maybe just a grin.

I have a lot to do early in the morning as well, so I'm making this short and heading to bed.

God save us.

Dirt!

Not all boys love dirt, at least one of them doesn't like it...not all the time anyway.

Thinking back to when Caleb's daddy was a boy, he did't like dirt. He really didn't like dirt.  But that could be because his dad was exceedingly busy with work and his mother was very anti dirt. He didn't like bugs and worms...or snakes as he called one the first time it saw it.  The only snakes he had seen were in a book and he had no way to compare it's size.

 It's a little like me an penguins. I had only seen them in picture books, on ice with snow in the background; so I really had no idea about their size until I saw some in person at SeaWorld at Geauga Lake Park in Aurora, Ohio.  I was almost 40, had taught first grade and still didn't know that penguins were little critters.

Back to dirt... It is a dirty shame that our country is being dismantled as I write...one act after another will render us helpless against tyrannical rule.

There is one thing that can save us...well there is one power than can save the USA from becoming extinct. That is God. He will save us...if we turn from our wicked ways. However, I can't see that happening as long as we continue to watch the trash that is on TV day after day. We need to pull ourselves away from those addicting programs and start helping others. We can help them understand love by helping them learn to earn a living in a legal respectable way.

I hope that tomorrow, I don't look back at this and wonder how I could misspell words and use incorrect grammar. I'll not remember how very tired I am right now.  This puppy is wearing me out...but I love every minute of her.

Good News

Can hardly believe I missed two days posting here. It's been exceptionally busy around here. The first night, it was lightning and last night I was just plain whipped. Less than seven hours sleep for several days did me in.  

Busy or not, I'm back with really good news.  Our lovely granddaughter, Lauren, turned 22 yesterday and she  has her  Bachelor of Science in Commerce and Business Administration degree from the University of Alabama. She graduated summa cum laude. We, of course, are proud of her accomplishment and are happy that she has been a working girl since April.

Our puppy is still keeping me ultra busy with house breaking her. She wears me out. So I must say, good night.

Remember that some things can be legal, and still not moral. I'll take God's law anyway. He knows what is best for us.

Knock Knock

Maggy already has a mind of her own. I love it. It is great to see her decide she wants to go inside, then see her take off for the house at full hop through the grass, across the driveway, up the walk and then on up the steps to the door. I have to run to keep up with her. If you hadn't noticed my legs are much longer than hers. She doesn't mess around.

She has explored her home and grounds and loves it here. She has adapted so quickly, one would think she had been born here. 

Now here's looking to the many weeks it could take to housebreak her.  The first two days were her best. She has been trying to train me, but I don't always understand what she is trying to tell me.  Just today, I tried hanging her bell on the door, so that she can ring it when she wants to go out.  Sometimes, however, it is much more efficient for her to come to me and tell me she wants to go outside. I do appreciate when she does that. I  don't always hear the bell, especially when I'm sitting here at the computer.

OH, BY THE WAY, I have a mind of my own as well. I am hoping that all of you find that you do also. We mush not allow ourselves to be brainwashed. It is happening so easy, because so many do  not want to face facts, they would rather hide their heads in the sand and continue on their day to day activities as if nothing were wrong. Sure, I'd like to do that as well.  But I know my history well enough to know what happens to societies that have done that. 

We must continue to serve our God in heaven, and refuse the serve those on earth who want to be gods.

Bonefish Grill

Yesterday I said today should be a better day on the blog. However, it was another late night for me and I'm having trouble staying awake...and it isn't even midnight yet. 

I'll just leave you with a group picture that was snapped at the entrance of Bonefish Grill.  We were pretty impressed by the fish handle on the door. But most impressive was the menu.  Phyllis had been there numerous times, for she goes to church nearby. She is really fond of the Bam Bam Shrimp. I wasn't in a fish mood and ordered a filet instead. I enjoyed it much more than those I've gotten in the recent past at Outback.

We hadn't been able to get all of us girls together for quite a few months. This outing was welcomed by us all. After eating, we drove on to the cabin and stayed up until after 2:00 AM catching up on things.

Little Joys

It's fairly easy to make a little one happy. A fountain is good enough. One that is overflowing with bubbles is even better. Caleb enjoyed himself playing in the 'fluffy' water one beautiful day in his home state of Colorado.

I am posting his much earlier than usual. It has been a 'mad house' around here since yesterday evening.
Hope things are back to normal by this time tomorrow.

Praise God, for he created the heavens and the earth. He made man in his own image.

Kaleidoscope Boy

Years ago when I was a paper scrapbooker, I did some kaleidoscopes. At the time, I would have to buy 8 copies of a photo to make one.  I have been thinking about making a digital one for some time, but this picture really got me excited enough to put the time into figuring out how to do it. It didn't cost me anything but time...but it took quite a hunk out of my day today. Now I'm pretty happy with it.

 I was asked earlier today if I agreed with the president on surveillance.  I didn't think so, but 1/2 way through this video, I did. Then I got pretty confused when he started saying just the opposite. You need to watch this...

two minute video

Eagles Mascot

Caleb noticed Slapshot the Colorado Eagles Hockey team's mascot. Recognizing him from a hockey game with his daddy, he got real excited and followed him around until he caught the bird's attention, at which time, big bird got down on Caleb's level and gave him a big hug.

It's always good to have someone to look up to...It's getting harder and harder every day.

Each evening I try to post something to educate or encourage. Tonight, the verse that comes to mind is Philippians 4:8

"Finally brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable- if anything is excellent or praiseworthy--think about such things."

Try it. You'll like it.

Wink

Caleb learns to wink.  Now it is good to know how to wink.  But I'm afraid we've been winking at too much in the last few years. We can no longer afford to let those in the higher reaches of government get away with the un-american things they've been doing, such as using the IRS to cause  trouble, and to intimidate those who would disagree with  the ruling party. Getting into the private emails and phone calls of regular American citizens is another travesty.

Hey fellows. It is okay to wink at the girls, but when it comes to life changing things....save those winks.

Simple Pleasures

Children are so much fun to watch. They enjoy the smallest things... Simple pleasures. As adults, we need to keep a fresh perspective like a child's, so that we may have a 'rich' life without spending lots of money.

Today, a friend sent me a link to a video of Victoria Jackson that should encourage you to stand strong.

 Muslim Outreach in TN  

This happened in TN. I believe that these southerners  would give  the most resistance to those who  would teach against our God in heaven. I guess if the Muslims are reaching out to them, they are or will be doing it everywhere. People, especially Christians, need to stand up. If we do, they don't have a chance. If we don't, we don't have a chance.

Father's Day

Ron is a good father. He has raised six kids and now, in his old age, he has taken on the care of another little one, Maggie. I think she will be very happy to call him Daddy. He even lets her chew on his ears.

I've been having a great time with her as well. House breaking has been coming along and she seems to get it pretty well, most of the time. Tonight she was absolutely bonkers...running, sliding, twisting in the air, biting the hand that fed her, and more. I'm pretty tired. But now, she is in her crate, settled down and, I would guess, sound asleep. But tomorrow, she'll be ready for another very busy day. Should keep us young.  lol

The following came across my computer again today. It is no wonder it is getting around the internet. This man has analyzed the problems we face in this country. He knows what is wrong and he is on fire. I love what he says...his love of freedom and his rally for Americans to be just that... Americans.  I think if you will take a few minutes to listen, you will  see what I mean and you may even want to jump on the bandwagon.

Listen to E.W. Jackson here.

Determination

Determination can sometimes be the most important factor in achievement. Naturally, Lauren has  the strength to lift 210 pounds, but many strong people would never work at it as hard as Lauren.

Lauren took second place in the Cross  Fit competition which, I believe, was held at Kinnet Square.

At present I am determined to get nearly 7 hours of sleep tonight, so I am sounding off now and heading to the bedroom. 

Life Is Good

Short, short, short...that's what I'll be tonight. It's been a long tiring day.  But it brings me joy to see our little Caleb with the most beautiful smile.

I've been searching for a new Bible cover since the zipper broke on my old one. I found some very nice looking ones in pretty colors with Bible verses on them.  But none were really leather like the one I have. I think I will try to have the zipper repaired. I've heard it is pricey, but it is a much better case that what I've seen today.

While I was shopping, I found the best t-shirts for Ron and me to wear  for Independence Day, or any day, for only $5.00 each. On the background of a large waving United States flag is this verse, Psalm 33:12..."Blessed is the Nation whose God is the Lord.   I plan to where it to Curves on a regular basis.

Anyone living in Northeastern Ohio should be able to pick up one, at one of the  Berean bookstores.

Daily I hear more and more things that convince me that if we don't turn our hearts toward God, the creator, we will lose everything we have...freedom of religions being of number one importance.

Check out the smile again. It is contagious.

Granddaughter

Ashley

Tonight, I'm posting a darling video of  God and Dog. It is a tribute to dogs and I believe every word.

 God and Dog 

One would think that with this you tube selection, I would post another layout of the new dog.  However,  the little female dog  is ready to take it easy now and then and leave space on the blog tonight for Ashley, our lovely little grand daughter.

I would also like to mention our dear friend, Mark Kirk who passed on to glory this morning. He finished the race, the fought the good fight and he has won a crown. He had come face to face with our Lord and Savior. Go Mark! We are blessed to have known you. We continue to love your family. I know you are very proud of each one of them.

We'll see you  again soon.

Night and Day, Beginning and End

We are friends, very good friends. When one is happy, we are all happy as was the case last week when we celebrated my birthday.  This week it is just the opposite. We are all mourning the loss of one's husband and our dear friend.  It happened so fast. We are still in shock. That is life. We never know what tomorrow brings or if tomorrow will come.  Be ready for that time in your life. Read your Bible. Form a relationship with our Lord and Savior who loves you and wants to be your father,friend, guide and protector. 

Make it easier for those who love you to let you go, knowing you will be going home to God to live forever and ever with Him in all His glory.

Havanese

The Havenese have some distinctive traits. Their gait is exceptionally different. You must read the layout here if you are not familiar with this breed.

I promise that not all my layouts from now on to eternity will be about Maggie...unless the world ends tonight.  But of course, it could. So, I pray you are ready just in case.

 Matthew 7:21 “Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven."

What is the will of God? Everything you need to know is in the Bible. The Old Testament gives the history of God's creation and his people.  The New Testament will tell you what you must do to be saved.  Don't take anyone's word for it.  Read it yourself. It's too important to be mislead by those who don't really know.

Precious Pup

I'm extra tired tonight after getting up at 4:45 AM with Maggy this morning. I did go back to bed for a little while, but it  just wasn't enough sleep.  Yes, she is worth it.

20 Years Difference...

I would like to use a layout of my new puppy tonight, but I have played with her so much that I'm way behind. I hope to have a doggy post tomorrow night.

While April was here on Memorial day, we worked up this  page for my birthday, which is today. Yes, it is a BIG one.  As a matter of fact, our daughter, April is 20 years younger than I.  That explains the signs.  Of course a smaller me is in the background rolling her eyes.  But then, what does she know?

Believe You Can

Ashley  came home from the library with some art books.  This one is drawing instruction. Somehow, she also picked up a very interesting balloon hat. I don't know if there is a connection, but it makes a great imaginative layout.

It is fun to know she is interested in drawing pictures of what she sees around her. I'm pleased there is a library where she can get a book on anything she wants to study.

It seems that out government doesn't have enough to do. While they could have chosen to study topics that  would protect us from enemies abroad and enemies within the country and those in government as well, it turns out, they are much more interested in knowing lots of facts about ordinary citizens.  They have checked into all kinds of online sources to know more and more about each or us. Even though I would consider myself an upstanding citizen of this faire country, I still feel uncomfortable having people peering at all my online photos,  reading my email and collecting info on my phone calls.
This  was established as a free country, not what it has become...a spy state.

Good Balance

It is a little bike for a little boy. It astounds me to see this little fellow not even 3 1/2 riding a bicycle.

He certainly does have good balance...which is more than we can say for most of the politicians in this country.

Because our government, as well as the general public, is spending more than they make, we are teetering on the brink of disaster.

Clear Water

I've spent much of my day trying to make and publish a book. It is with a different publisher than the one I really like ...My Publisher... which doesn't seem to want to give good deals anymore.

But I am frustrated right now. Can't seem to make their program work right for me. I had to make special 8x8 layouts for the book. Don't know now whether I'll ever get it published, but at least I'll post this layout tonight. I really like the simplicity and the 'clear water; which I really don't see around here. 

Our water is generally  too deep to see the bottom, filled with seaweed, or just plain muddy.

That reminds me of Washington. The liberals are  always trying to muddy the water. Why is it they can't just tell the truth anymore? Well, the answer is, if they were honest about what they are trying to do, no real American citizen would vote for them. Most of the time they are saying they are trying to do exactly the opposite of what they are really doing. 

A Stick and a Feather

A Stick and a feather...what more could a boy need?   I can relate to the wonder of a feather. But I really don't get the stick, unless maybe it could be used as a walking stick. But Caleb was quite happy with his finds as he walked at Riverbend Natural Area. 

I still find myself enthralled daily  by God's creation. All I need do is lift my eyes from this computer and gaze out my window at beautiful trees, the lake, the sky, birds...  As far s I am concerned, nothing is more beautiful than that which our God made for us here on earth.  And as anyone knows who reads the Bible, He once gave man an even more awesome place to live...the garden of Eden.  And He has already prepared a place in heaven for those of us who give our lives over to Him.  There is no match for the magnificence of heaven.

I  find myself humming ever so often now, "This World is Not My Home, I'm Just a Passing Through."

Bike Race

Caleb has embarked, at the young age of three, on a path of bicycle racing. This was his very first race. He rode his sleek and shiny red Strider on the New Belgium Short Track,  May 21.  Each week this summer, he will have another chance to race his bike.  However, since seeing him ride his pedal bicycle, I'm sure it won't be long until he switches to it for the events. 

It was interesting today as I was racing around trying to do everything at once, a little titmouse friend stopped by my bird feeder and shook his tuft at my window as if to say, 'are you never going to fill this again?'  He was so cute, that I dropped everything I was doing to cater to him. But when I filled the canister, the seed fell on the ground. There was a big hole rusted in the bottom. Of course, so as not to disappoint this little guy, I grabbed my purse and headed off to WalMart to remedy the situation.  It didn't take me long before I was back at the house and filling his new feeder with extra special seed.

But while at the store, I landed in one of the many long lines. I had plenty of time to read the headlines on all the magazines.  One of them really caught my eye. It was one of the news rags. It wasn't the National Enquirer, but similar. It had a picture of our president and it was saying that he would be impeached. I didn't think it could happen because he is so slick, but here it was in black and while: Worse than Nixon!   That and the titmouse made my day.

More Memorial Day Celebration.

 Because of our veterans, we now have the freedom to shop...or even to not shop, which is what April and I were doing. We checked out everything, or at least a large selection of things. Here were the Christmas things we looked over. Although we shopped much of the day, we didn't spend more than $5.00. It was an inexpensive day; but we had lots of fun.

Today actually felt like Christmas.  John uploaded a million pictures to Flickr.  Well, at least enough, that I will no longer be able to 'scrapbook' all or even most of the pictures they make.  Now, I"ll have to be more choosey.

I'm  inexplicably tired tonight...even pretended to be an old person and took a nap earlier. Guess I'll just have to give in and go to bed.  Oh yea, it is within minutes of midnight, so I  guess It's not too early.

Since the Department of Homeland Security who has 240,000 employees and spends more than $60 billion a year, says it cannot find 266 foreign nationals who have overstayed their visas and, get this...they could be a national-security or public safety threat.

Since I wan us to sleep well tonight, I'm reminding you of God's promise in Psalm 18:2:

The Lord is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer; my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge, my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold.

Now that I'm back to Easter, I'll post a layout of the boy triplets at Easter.  Their Easter baskets proved there is more to Easter than chocolate. Aussie's prize gift was a Rubik's cube. If he is like my dad, his great grandfather, he'll soon be whizzing through that puzzle as if he invented it.  Then there is Mason. He received a promise of money to put toward a game he wants to buy.

Of course the real significance  of Easter was the resurrection of our Lord Christ Jesus. And the boys celebrated their Lord and Savior at church that Easter morning as I pray they do every day of their lives.

This  week finds them at church camp.  Even though Ashley had an infection in her leg earlier in the week, she was ready to go to camp along with the boys on Friday. I certainly wish I could be there to get pictures of the daily activities or at least at their house when they arrive home with all their belongings from camp. I'd like to hear all the tales they will be able to tell at that time.

We need to keep all those who went through tragic storms this last few days in Oklahoma,  in our prayers. And until the triplets return home, I'll be praying that tornadoes are kept away.