Simple Woman's Daybook - December 7, 2015

Linking up with

The Simple Woman's Daybook

FOR TODAY

December 7, 2015

Outside My Window:  It feels more like an "autumn" day in good ole sunny Florida; although I can't see the sun - though later I did! - the temp is in the low 60's with a breeze and a chill in the air!

I am Hearing:  As usual, the TV is on and hubby is not around to watch it!  He has gone out for one of his daily walks.  But, he did leave a Christmas movie on instead of a "news-y" program.

I am Thinking About:  My visit to the doctor today: I've had a bad cough for over two weeks, and I think it's gone into my chest.  And on top of that are these headaches I keep getting, along with neck and shoulder pain and some light-headedness.

{Good news is my lungs are clear; he felt the cough was from asthma and gave me an inhaler.  As for the headaches, wants to do a head scan...so, waiting for insurance to approve and give a referral!}

I am Thankful for:  Family and Friends who are concerned about my health...I am actually feeling better as far as the cough and without the promise to my family and friends...I may have decided not to go to the doctor again!

I am Praying for:  So many people are in need of prayer for many reasons...and God knows what those are.  Our country is in great need of prayer; only God can heal what's wrong with our country!

I am Wearing:  A pair of jeans, my write 31 days 2015 "Challenge Accepted" shirt, and crocs (still hoping to find a new pair after Christmas; these are just about "done"!)

I am Creating:  While waiting for my Stampin' Up products to arrive so I can make some Christmas cards, I have been working on more Prima dolls...

Photo by BJ London

Funny story about these "dolls"...I woke up early the other morning, and, in my mind was putting together a "cohesive collection" for a runway show...guess I've been watching too much "Project Runway" and Project Runway Junior"!

I am Going:  To the doctor; leaving in about 30 minutes.

I am Wondering:  If the doctor will brush aside my "symptoms" as he almost always does and call it "allergies"?!

I am Reading:  I am reading "Fragile" by Lisa Unger, another "can't put it down" kind of read!

And am also trying to keep up with Barbie Swihart's book study by reading "Girl Meets Change - Truths to Carry You Through Life's Transitions" by Kristen Strong.  I am still behind in reading; but I will catch up and participate!

I am Excited for:  Our Elfster Reveal this Saturday; I want to know who gave me my awesome gifts for the first exchange; and excited for my Elfster Sister to receive her second gifts.

I am Learning:  To accept the fact that I am not as young as I once was and I can't do as much as when I was younger; and I need to let myself "be" the person that I am now...as in, letting my hair go natural?!  {Not sure about that one yet, but...who knows?!}

In My Kitchen:  Meat thawing for dinner; other than that...it's clean except for the floor!

I am Pondering:  Should I let my hair go natural?  Natural will be gray!!

Found on Pinterest

So, what I need to do now is accept the fact that I have these "free highlights" and let my hair go natural!

As I said, still pondering, thinking about, just not sure I am ready to do this!

A Scripture Thought:  While reading a blog post recently, I was introduced to a new song, "He is with You" sung by Mandisa (see "A Quote" next for that song and a few of the words.)  That song reminded me of the verses in Ecclesiastes 3:1-8:

"For everything there is a season,

and a time for every matter under heaven:

a time to be born, and a time to die,

a time to plant,

and a time to pluck up what is planted;

a time to kill,

and a time to heal;

a time to break down,

and a time to build up;

a time to weep,

and a time to laugh;

a time to mourn,

and a time to dance;

a time to cast away stones,

and a time to gather stones together;

a time to embrace,

and a time to refrain from embracing;

a time to seek, and a time to lose;

a time to keep, and a time to cast away;

a time to tear, and a time to sew;

a time to keep silence,

and a time to speak'

a time to love, and a time to hate;

a time for war, and a time for peace."

A Quote:  And, a few words from "He is with You" sung by Mandisa, followed by the song from YouTube:

"There's a time to live

and a time to die

There's a time to laugh

And a time to cry...

He is with you

when your faith is dead...

There's a time for yes

And a time for no

There's a time to be angry

and a time to let go...

We may weep for a time

But joy will come in the morning...

He is with you!"

I think this song and the words of Ecclessiastes are so relevant in this time of unrest in our world.  May you gain a bit of hope from them; I know I did {thank you, my friend Andrew for introducing me to this beautiful song!}


And another Simple Woman's Daybook is completed!

Tuesday @ Ten - DETERMINED

Today I am joining my friend, Karen Beth, for Tuesday @ Ten.

This link-up, writing from a prompted word or phrase, is one of my fave...be sure to check out the others' posts, and link your own!




Today's word is:  DETERMINED

After reading Karen's post about this week's word, I commented to her that I was "determined" to get a post written!

The truth is, I did write it...

Sometime in the middle of the night, when I was unable to sleep, I had the words running through my head!  But, I didn't get up and jot them down...

Now, I am starting over!

But, I am determined to write something meaningful...or at least something that makes sense!

Lately I've been feeling a bit..."out-of-sorts".

What does that really mean?  I'm not sure; but I just haven't been feeling quite myself.  I've been tired; not depressed, but not really feeling like doing anything; a bit sick with coughing and congestion; and just plain "bitchy" (can I say that here???  Sorry!  But I'm not sure any other word would work for the way I've been feeling!).

I am not usually that way; or, am I?  Actually, I think I am that way to my husband a lot of the time!

I've often said that my husband acts one way with others, and another way with me.  According to him, "everybody likes me"; "they all say I'm a great guy".

I always say, "But they don't live with you; and don't really know what kind of guy you are!"

I am determined to change my thought patterns.

I am determined to change my attitude; to change my actions and reactions.

I am determined to have him treat me the same as he does with "others"; to be that guy "everybody likes" when he is with me!

I am determined to not jump to conclusions; to not provoke him to react negatively to me...

I am determined!

Found on Pinterest

Shared by moneysavingmom.com

I know that it is not all my fault; the way he acts or speaks to me comes from somewhere within him...either he doesn't understand what I am saying (due to his hearing or even his dementia);

But I know that I can help by speaking louder and more clearly.  I know I can help by realizing his inability to follow a story-line or to grasp a situation, and be clearer in responding to him.

It takes two people to communicate properly; but when one is hard-of-hearing and has dementia, the other person needs to compensate for that lack - and that is what I need to do!

I am determined!

Yes, I am determined to be the person I know I am; the one that isn't bitchy and ugly all the time; the one who is positive and happy and joyful...

Because, that is who I am for real - positive and happy and joyful!

And I know that I can do this - with God's help; because, that is the only way I can do it!


This may not be the post that ran through my head early this morning; but this is what I have written!

Random Journal Day - December 4, 2015

One of my favorite bloggers to follow is Dawn, who blogs at enthusiasticallydawn.com.  On the first Friday of each month, Dawn hosts Random Journal Day, where fellow journalers share an entry from one of their journals...

Whether we share an entry from yesterday, or last month, or even one from several years ago...we just share what's on our hearts or in our journals!

And, since I have followed Dawn every first Friday of 2015...I couldn't let December pass by without sharing.

The entries I share today are from December 2007 and January 2008:


December 31, 2007

"The thing about taking a car in to get a 'check-up' is worrying about finding something major wrong.

"The thing about taking myself in for a 'check-up', or blood test, or paper smear or mammogram, or...

"Get the picture?!  I know doing all of these 'check-ups' is preventive, or to 'catch it early'; but it's pretty scary when you get a 'recall'...


{After having a mammogram earlier in the month, I arrived home on a Friday and my husband told me I had a message; it turned out to be from Baptist...}


"And, of course when I called, everyone was gone for the day!  But I heard from them today -

"It seems they saw a 'shadow' that could be a cyst or just muscle.  They want to do another test on the left breast...

"So, I have to have it done on January 15th...Of course, they said not to worry!

"Easier said than done!  But, I'll try not to worry and leave it in God's hands!"


January 11, 2008

"...I have a 're-do' on the mammo...not really anything to be concerned about!  Or, so they say: 'Don't worry'...

"But, I do know in whose hands I have placed my life; so, I am not worrying!"


January 14, 2008

"Well, tomorrow is the day - I have the 're-do' on the mammogram - the weird thing is the phone call(s) to confirm appointments ended up being two calls; one to confirm a 9 am appointment, and one to confirm a 10 am.  According to the letter I received, I might need an ultra sound as well as the mammogram; so it almost sounds as if they've scheduled both...

"Well, we will see in the morning.  I still say, it is what is is!  And whatever it is, it is in God's hands!  He is the one who holds my future..."

January 17, 2008

"...and it is A-OK!

"The first mammo was not clear; but after taking the others - and really squishing the boob - it was clearer and was just muscle overlapping!

"So, all is well!!

Thank you, God!


And, right before Thanksgiving this year, I had a mammogram...the first one since that episode in 2007/2008.  Since I was without insurance, I did not schedule one until just recently.

So far, I haven't heard anything from the recent exam; but they were ordering the films from that last one before the tech read them.

As I was certain back then, I am still certain that everything will be OK...

And if not, well, I know my life is in the right hands!


This was not really a FUN post for Random Journal Day; but sharing what I have written in my journal!  And...

Sharing my Faith during this time of year when we celebrate Thanksgiving and the "Reason for the Season"...the birth of our Savior!

Simple Woman's Daybook - November 30, 2015

Linking up with

The Simple Woman's Daybook

FOR TODAY

November 30, 2015

Outside My Window:  A beautiful, sunny day; not sure of the temp, but it is gorgeous outside...and here I am "stuck" inside with a bad cold (or something)!

I am Hearing:  SILENCE!  Hubby is laying down; I am getting ready to go watch a new video I won in a raffle basket a few weeks ago...

{No go...couldn't figure out how to put the TV in the right mode for the VCR.  These new TV's are not user friendly, at least not for an old woman like me!!!}

I am Thinking About:  My life...my "stormy" life; and how God will bring me through it all, but I am soooo anxious to be through it now!  What lesson(s) is/are He trying to teach me (over and over and over again!)?

I am Thankful for:  Family and Friends...we had a blessed Thanksgiving Day, with lots of laughter, fun, food, relaxing, football, cooking and cleaning and...something new: fried turkey! 

I am Praying for:  Myself...I am so tired of feeling sick so often!  Another cold or sinus/allergy infection; this cough is getting to my sleep/rest because every time I lay down, I start coughing and coughing...praying it goes away soon!

I am Wearing:  A pair of jeans, a white top with purple flowers and green leaves, and my crocs (I am hoping to find a new pair after Christmas; these definitely need to be replaced).

I am Creating:  I have decided to make a few Christmas cards; I already have some made and will be mailing these out..but I saw a card design using one of the Stampin' Up stams I have, and I want to make some cards!

I am Going:  To Walgreen's to buy some more medicine; hope to rest better tonight.

I am Wondering:  Nothing at the time; at least, I don't think so...just not "feeling it" today!

I am Reading:  This morning, I finished reading "Sliver of Truth" by Lisa Unger, the sequel to the last book I read, "Beautiful Lies".  Both of these books were definitely a "can't put it down" kind of read!

I will now pick up "Girl Meets Change - Truths to Carry You Through Life's Transitions" by Kristen Strong.  I am behind in reading and linking up with Barbie Swihart and the book study; but I will catch up and participate!

I am Excited for:  The Christmas Holidays...the grandsons will be out for the holiday vacation; my daughter and her husband will be off, too (as teachers, they get the same holidays, and that is such a blessing!); hopefully my other son-in-law will have some time off, or at least "work" from home so he can be with my daughter and grandsons; and my son and granddaughter will be here for a few days!

I am Learning:  What am I learning?  That I am mostly happy with my life; and that, even though I feel as if I am "going through a storm", I know who my guide is ... and if only I keep my eyes on Him through that storm, He will guide me through it!

In My Kitchen:  Well, finishing my post at the end of the day instead of the beginning...the dishes are in the dishwasher, and the kitchen is fairly clean!

I am Pondering:  What things I need to buy to finish up my Christmas shopping...limited budgets require deep thought about this!  Next year, I hope to set aside some every month so when it comes time to shop...

Yeah!  I've tried that before!

A Scripture Thought:  From Psalm 41:1 (KJV):  "Blessed is he that considereth the poor: the Lord will deliver him in time of trouble."

A Quote:  Marie T. Freeman says:  "When someone needs a helping hand, he doesn't need it tomorow or the next day.  He needs it now, and that's exactly when you should offer to help.  Good deeds, if they are really good, happen sooner rather than later."


And another Simple Woman's Daybook is completed!

Tuesday @ Ten - THANKFUL

Today I am joining my friend, Karen Beth, for Tuesday @ Ten.

This link-up, writing from a prompted word or phrase, is one of my fave...be sure to check out the others' posts, and link your own!




Today's word is:  THANKFUL

This is the time of year when we look more closely at the things we are thankful for...yet, should we not be thankful every day of the year, not just at certain times?

The answer, of course, is a BIG YES!

Found on Pinterest

Shared by m.lovethispic.com

Looking back on the past few days, there are so many things I can be thankful for...

Family - the ones we get to spend a lot of time with; and the ones we look forward to seeing for special occasions; 

Friends - those I have met and see often (or not so often), and those I have never met, but have such a connection with that it seems as if we've known each other for ages!

Sharing our Resources with those in need, in whatever ways we can find to do so;

Sharing a Holiday Meal with others who would have been alone;

Waking up each morning to a new day;

Having a place to live, plenty of food, and a way to get around;

Hugs and Kisses from the Grandkids - and the "kids";

Gifts from Friends (my Elfster Sister knows me sooooo well; wonder who she is?!)...

Yes, there are so many things to be thankful for!

Found on Pinterest

Shared by annvoskamp.com

Short and sweet... this is my Thankful post for this holiday season, and for this week's Tuesday @ Ten!

Blessings to you all...

And, being aware of so many that may not feel thankful during the holidays, may God bring you a little brightness to make your days just a bit better.

Simple Woman's Daybook - November 23, 2015

Linking up with

The Simple Woman's Daybook

FOR TODAY

November 23, 2015

Outside My Window:  Breezy, clear blue sky, and temperatures in the 40's...YES!  I said..."in the 40's!"  So glad it is cooling down around here!  I need to get my summery shirts put away and get out the wintry ones...YES!

I am Hearing:  The TV, of course!  Can't tell what is on, but it is all chatter, chatter, chatter...probably some morning talk show that is not clearing my brain yet!

I am Thinking About:  What I need to get done today, this week.

I am Thankful for:  My family and friends; church family and friends; crafting family and friends; and to God for them all!

I am Praying for:  Continued patience and understanding; to be able to keep my mouth shut when I am provoked, so I don't "re-act" to the words that come to my ears from my husband.

I am Wearing:  A pair of pj's - black pants and a black top with minions - there are eight black, gray and white ones and one colorful one with the words "One in a Minion".  I bought these pj's for our last Puppy Crop because the theme was "Minions" with the phrase "Our Volunteers are One in a Minion."

Minion Display at my Work Table

Retreat Layout

{almost completed}

I am Creating:  I promised photos of the projects I have recently completed...and here they are...

Cards made at Retreat;

Left two - challenge

Right one - make 'n take

My Page

for Page Swap

(20 of same page made!)

"Thankful" Theme Crop

November 21st

Now, I have a Christmas gift to finish; and my goal for next year is to get projects done so I can include them in a few craft shows that usually come up in the Fall.

I am Going:  To a doctor's appointment {actually, it's for a "mammo" that I always dread; yet, I know it is one of those necessary things in life!}

I may also stop by a store (or two) while I am out by myself...still looking for something to complete the above-mentioned Christmas gift!

I am Wondering:  If my term as chair of our Deacons has come to an end?!  I was willing to continue; but I think my term is up...and that will actually be a good thing for my "over-whelming" and busy schedule, and I can slow down a bit and concentrate on getting some things done - around the house cleaning and organizing; craft projects done...that kind of thing!

I am Reading:  The sequel to the last book I finished - "Beautiful Lies" by Lisa Unger.  Yes, I did go by the used book store and bought "Sliver of Truth" so I could read it...this is a "can't put it down" kind of read!

I am Excited for:  The holidays!  First, gathering at my daughter's home for Thanksgiving with both of my daughters and their families, as well as a close family friend and her son and father.  And then...my son and granddaughter will be with us for Christmas!

I am Learning:  Not only do I need to ask for patience and understanding with my husband, I need to learn to not provoke him; and to not to let him provoke me!

In My Kitchen:  Need to pull something out to cook for dinner...leftovers will come after Thanksgiving!

{We ended up opening cans - potato soup for me; chili for him...just what I needed!}

I am Pondering:  The story of Hannah - whose name means "Grace" - and her life as one of two wives, the one who could not conceive and was provoked by the other wife who had several children.  Hannah was blessed by God, giving birth to Samuel.

A Scripture Thought:  Psalm 18:6 has come up in my morning devotions, and also on blog or facebook posts I've seen in the past couple of days...

"In my distress I called to the Lord; I cried to my God for help.  From His temple He heard my voice; my cry came before Him, into His ear."

God is assuring me that He has not forsaken me!

A Quote:  "Even if we cannot seem to walk that mile in someone else's shoes, we are still capable of standing beside them to be a supporter until the day they learn to smile again" - Hannah Brencher, Lewy Body Dementia Association site found here.


And another Simple Woman's Daybook is completed!

Five Minute Friday - DWELL

I am linking up with Kate for Five Minute Friday; check out her blog Heading Home  to link up or read other posts.  I haven't done an FMF post since we ended the "write31days" in October...life has gotten in the way in a whirlwind of activity; and the holidays are just now starting ...

{although, with Halloween comes also my oldest grandson's birthday the next day, and my daughter's birthday on the 12th of November; so continuing to be busy even before the "other" holidays!}

So, here I am again, writing on tonight's word:

DWELL

Dwell - v. to live

Dwell on - v. to refer to at length (to a subject).

The place where I currently dwell is a two-bedroom/two-bathroom apartment; we are in the building near the back of the complex, at the back of our building, overlooking the back of a car dealership.  It is rather quiet back here, except for the occasional alarm sounding on one of the cars beyond the fence between our building and the dealership.

Our complex is surrounded by trees and a creek that runs throughout.  It is a (fairly) quiet place to dwell...

Even so, there are times when I am weak and sad and depressed and...well, just "out of sorts".  And in these moments, I dwell on what could have been; what would life be like if...

I know these types of "dwellings" are not good for me.  I should take my life for what it is, at this time and this place, because I know that God has me here for a reason!

Yet, that reason is so hard to find!  That "purpose" is getting harder and harder to find...

And, when I dwell on my circumstances too much, I do become weak and sad and depressed and..."out of sorts".

So, I know the thing for me to do is not dwell on those things!  Live with them; but don't dwell on them!

I know, easier said than done!

Found on Pinterest

Shared by mobile.twitter.com

So, today is barely beginning; but as the day goes on...and is over, I need to {try} and "let it go"...

{If I were to add a video clip here, it would be the "Frozen" version of "Let it Go"; but I will let that one go, too!  I am sure everyone will be happy I chose not to use that song - though I really do love the music from "Frozen"!}

So, as I end my Five Minute Friday post for this week, remember these verses from Ephesians (another "easier said than done" quote):