There are skeptics among us but I believe in miracles.
This afternoon I sent out a prayer request to heal my migraine and it is gone. I put my hands on my niece's swollen, nine months pregnant baby belly and felt my new great nephew moving within her. At one of my Tuesday night meetings (group of women from my church), a members hands got hot and she touched several of us and we were all healed by the next day of what was ailing us (I was healed within an hour or so).
The greatest miracle of all that I have experienced was that God took a piece of Himself, came to earth and became human so that I might never be able to say, "Lord, you just don't understand." Not only that, He became sin whilst on the cross so that we could have a relationship with God and spend eternity with Him.
Can it get any better than that?
I no longer try to picture what heaven is like. There is no way my limited mind could ever do it justice. I tell my children what my mother told me: when you get there, whatever makes you happiest is what heaven will be like. As a child, I used to imagine unlimited boxes of Whitman samplers (chocolates). Himself hopes for reenactments of the miracles in the Bible like the parting of the Red Sea. Now, I am waiting in anticipation for when I join my Lord and savior. I know with everything in me that no joy on earth can compare.
In a few days, we will be celebrating the birth of that bit of God sent to earth. Technically speaking, shepherds don't watch over flocks in December so the actual date is up in the air. Does it really matter when Jesus Christ was born? I don't think so. All that matters was that He WAS born and why. Born to die that I may live.
My greatest desire is that all I know would come to know Jesus for their own. Sometimes I ache with this desire.
May the honoring of God by remembering Who He gave us be of the utmost importance in your life this week and always.
blessing, joy and peace, g
Sunday, December 20, 2009
Saturday, December 12, 2009
TV Tales and Such
I watch too much television. I use the tv as a babysitter for Bells too much of the time. Mom used to call it the "idiot box" and I believe a majority of the households in America use it as their main form of entertainment.
Pass through any neighborhood at night and, if a window isn't covered, you might see flashing forms from whatever is being watched. As I type this, CSI is playing from the dvr. Himself still likes it but I am kind of bored by it and grossed out by how graphic, gory and filled with gratuitous sex it is.
HOWEVER, it does serve a good purpose, too. I have learned quite a bit of decent knowledge from some of my shows. For instance, if someone is dying slowly and no one can figure it out, test for heavy metal poisoning. Arsenic will be detected that way but the test is rarely given making it the choice of unhappy spouses who want out. Himself thinks I am so smart when I can figure that kind of thing out. hmmm...
Like the internet, it is great and horrible.
Enough of that. Less than two weeks before Christmas. I have never done Santa with my kids but The Girl is doing it with Isabella who still doesn't get it. I asked The Boy if it ever bothered him that I didn't do Santa and he said no. The Girl, however, had her father telling her Santa was real and she tried to make me believe in him.
In the spirit of decoration, I have polished my nails a deep green. Sally's Beauty Supply sells their own brand of nail polish in small bottles for .99! I love that! You don't have to commit to a color you paid $8 for.
Have I mentioned that my children are making me crazy? I have to remember that we have raised them and they are adults. They are now responsible for themselves and no longer require our parenting. We have to sit back and pray whilst they make their mistakes and have their victories. It is so hard. If they would only listen we could keep them from hurting so badly. ugh Letting God be God is hard but they belong to Him, not us.
Are you ready for Christmas? Depends on what you mean by ready. We buy very few gifts and I haven't baked much for years. The tree is trimmed and a few decorations are up.
Have a favorite Christmas cookie? Hard to choose. I like my coconut macaroons drizzled with chocolate and oatmeal lace cookies sandwiched with chocolate. Gingerbread cookies with chocolate on them. Am I seeing a pattern here?
Where will you be on Christmas eve and or day? Christmas eve, my sister's house with my side of the family. Christmas day, the in-laws'.
Egg nog? A little bit. I like it but it is sooo fattening.
What are you watching on tv these days? I'm enjoying the Home & Garden channel a lot especially the Canadian shows like Income Property and The Unsellables. Also, Christmas movies on the Hallmark channel.
Here's hoping that your "days are merry and bright and that all your Christmases are white" (at least in your dreams!).
blessings, g
Pass through any neighborhood at night and, if a window isn't covered, you might see flashing forms from whatever is being watched. As I type this, CSI is playing from the dvr. Himself still likes it but I am kind of bored by it and grossed out by how graphic, gory and filled with gratuitous sex it is.
HOWEVER, it does serve a good purpose, too. I have learned quite a bit of decent knowledge from some of my shows. For instance, if someone is dying slowly and no one can figure it out, test for heavy metal poisoning. Arsenic will be detected that way but the test is rarely given making it the choice of unhappy spouses who want out. Himself thinks I am so smart when I can figure that kind of thing out. hmmm...
Like the internet, it is great and horrible.
Enough of that. Less than two weeks before Christmas. I have never done Santa with my kids but The Girl is doing it with Isabella who still doesn't get it. I asked The Boy if it ever bothered him that I didn't do Santa and he said no. The Girl, however, had her father telling her Santa was real and she tried to make me believe in him.
In the spirit of decoration, I have polished my nails a deep green. Sally's Beauty Supply sells their own brand of nail polish in small bottles for .99! I love that! You don't have to commit to a color you paid $8 for.
Have I mentioned that my children are making me crazy? I have to remember that we have raised them and they are adults. They are now responsible for themselves and no longer require our parenting. We have to sit back and pray whilst they make their mistakes and have their victories. It is so hard. If they would only listen we could keep them from hurting so badly. ugh Letting God be God is hard but they belong to Him, not us.
Are you ready for Christmas? Depends on what you mean by ready. We buy very few gifts and I haven't baked much for years. The tree is trimmed and a few decorations are up.
Have a favorite Christmas cookie? Hard to choose. I like my coconut macaroons drizzled with chocolate and oatmeal lace cookies sandwiched with chocolate. Gingerbread cookies with chocolate on them. Am I seeing a pattern here?
Where will you be on Christmas eve and or day? Christmas eve, my sister's house with my side of the family. Christmas day, the in-laws'.
Egg nog? A little bit. I like it but it is sooo fattening.
What are you watching on tv these days? I'm enjoying the Home & Garden channel a lot especially the Canadian shows like Income Property and The Unsellables. Also, Christmas movies on the Hallmark channel.
Here's hoping that your "days are merry and bright and that all your Christmases are white" (at least in your dreams!).
blessings, g
Thursday, December 3, 2009
Blogging
Looking back over the last few years I see that blogging has enmeshed itself in the very fiber of my life. Although I have not spent much time here of late, the effects are in my life every day.
It seems that it would be unrealistic to call someone a "friend" if you have not really met. However, I have met a few of you in person and it has solidified our relationships. A few others I have spoken with by phone and other forms of communication and we have stood by one another through good times and rough times.
When I post new pictures of Isabella, I get the same reactions here that I get from my friends and family I "see" in person. Every time we conquer a battle for Bells' education or when she makes progress, I have a virtual cheering section.
If I am sick or sad, I get encouragement and prayers. When you are sick or need encouragement, I deem it an honor to be able to pray for you and send you a bit of "g" wisom and cheer!
What I am saying is I appreciate you and count you a blessing in my life! Thank you for being here.
Let's do a falderal on Thursday to change things up:
How long have you been blogging: About three and a half years now.
Why did you start? I'm not really sure. I enjoyed reading other people's blogs and I enjoy writing so it seemed natural to start.
Have you met anyone from blogland in person? Yes. I have met Lols and Texas Mammie and they are as wonderful in person as they are here!
What has slowed you down in blogworld, if, indeed, you have slowed down? If you haven't slowed down, what has kept you going? I must confess that facebook is one culprit but mostly it is the changes spaces has made. We now have to work harder to see what is going on with our friends.
How in the world are you? I am pretty well, thank you very much. We are experiencing weird weather and it is making a mess of our sinuses but our health is pretty good.
God bless all of you, g
It seems that it would be unrealistic to call someone a "friend" if you have not really met. However, I have met a few of you in person and it has solidified our relationships. A few others I have spoken with by phone and other forms of communication and we have stood by one another through good times and rough times.
When I post new pictures of Isabella, I get the same reactions here that I get from my friends and family I "see" in person. Every time we conquer a battle for Bells' education or when she makes progress, I have a virtual cheering section.
If I am sick or sad, I get encouragement and prayers. When you are sick or need encouragement, I deem it an honor to be able to pray for you and send you a bit of "g" wisom and cheer!
What I am saying is I appreciate you and count you a blessing in my life! Thank you for being here.
Let's do a falderal on Thursday to change things up:
How long have you been blogging: About three and a half years now.
Why did you start? I'm not really sure. I enjoyed reading other people's blogs and I enjoy writing so it seemed natural to start.
Have you met anyone from blogland in person? Yes. I have met Lols and Texas Mammie and they are as wonderful in person as they are here!
What has slowed you down in blogworld, if, indeed, you have slowed down? If you haven't slowed down, what has kept you going? I must confess that facebook is one culprit but mostly it is the changes spaces has made. We now have to work harder to see what is going on with our friends.
How in the world are you? I am pretty well, thank you very much. We are experiencing weird weather and it is making a mess of our sinuses but our health is pretty good.
God bless all of you, g
Friday, November 20, 2009
Futile to Fight Falderal
The girls have finally moved back home. It was a quick, easy move although the getting organized will probably start tomorrow. Correction: better start tomorrow.
What is futile is to fight wanting a quiet house for any length of time. As a, matter of fact, we had to pick up Bells from school yesterday with a cough and low fever. She can not return until we have a doctor's note. Even a slight fever gives the schools such fear now. It is a shame but I suppose it is necessary.
What is also futile is to depend on others to figure out the right answers for a child like Isabella. After waiting nine months for an appointment, I accompanied The Girl and Bells to see a developmental pediatrician. Although we know she has autism, we had to get a formal diagnosis. The nurse practitioner took a detailed history and then the doctor came
in. She was read the history and didn't add much of anything. When asked about testing for deficiencies or about diet she said she doesn't do any of that because it isn't "scientifically proven." See you in six months.
What is futile is to fight wanting a quiet house for any length of time. As a, matter of fact, we had to pick up Bells from school yesterday with a cough and low fever. She can not return until we have a doctor's note. Even a slight fever gives the schools such fear now. It is a shame but I suppose it is necessary.
What is also futile is to depend on others to figure out the right answers for a child like Isabella. After waiting nine months for an appointment, I accompanied The Girl and Bells to see a developmental pediatrician. Although we know she has autism, we had to get a formal diagnosis. The nurse practitioner took a detailed history and then the doctor came
in. She was read the history and didn't add much of anything. When asked about testing for deficiencies or about diet she said she doesn't do any of that because it isn't "scientifically proven." See you in six months. Hmmm...
Not one suggestion; not one how do you do. All we got was a diagnosis. Now I understand why the moms in Bells' school told us to use another doctor; live and learn. However, the nurse practitioner and doctor both agreed that Bells has a very good chance of leading a "normal" life some day in the future.
We have expected progress not further problems. However, our girl has started to hit herself on occasion. It has brought The Girl to tears. It seems to be like a reflex rather than a behavior she thinks about. Something for us to research.
On a lighter note, we celebrated Isabella's 4th birthday last weekend. Can you believe she is four years old? She loved being sung to at the several celebrations she had. Balloons? She brings them everywhere with her! The Girl has asked me to not get any more. Himself and I got her a set of instruments - percussion instruments - drum, maracas, castinets, bells! Typical grandparent present but not when the grandchild lives with you. That kind of noise doesn't bother me. High pitched noises do like whistles.
Are there any noises that bother you? High-pitched whistles, nails on a chalkboard and utensils scraping a plate.
Have there been any battles you have had to fight for your children? Many times. Getting my children classified with learning disabilities took my figuring it out before the system did. I will go into detail if you wish.
Do you like chai? Eww. I figured out that it has cloves in it and I have a story about cloves I might share some time that explains why I hate it.
Plans for Thanksgiving? I know my Canadian friends have already celebrated and my international friends might not celebrate. We are actually staying home this year. So many years going to the in-laws and we are tired of seeing Himself's mom exhaust herself. We will go there for dessert.
Is this going to be a good holiday season? If it KILLS me I will enjoy myself! Those of you who have been with me for a while know I don't like this time of year. I am going to try to be a model of Christmas cheer!
Be well, my friends. I pray that all is well. g
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
Thank You Veterans
Thank you to all who served in war and in peace time.
Thanks to Himself; Viet Nam,
Brothers-in-law; Viet Nam years (non-combat)
Dad; Korea
Granddad; WWII
Richard W.; WWII
All my friends on spaces and their families who serve(d) alongside them.
Thank you for serving so that I could raise my family in freedom and peace.
Thanks to Himself; Viet Nam,
Brothers-in-law; Viet Nam years (non-combat)
Dad; Korea
Granddad; WWII
Richard W.; WWII
All my friends on spaces and their families who serve(d) alongside them.
Thank you for serving so that I could raise my family in freedom and peace.
Sunday, November 8, 2009
Obedience No Matter What
I'm weary of finding f words to title the falderal so I am taking a breather from thinking too hard!
It is so hard, sometimes, to obey God's word. It says to honor our authorities because He put them there. Reading some other blogs, I see a lot of anger towards our current administration over the horrible events at Fort Hood this past week. Some say we are less safe than we were before 9/11.
To say that the average American knows what is really going on in our country is to live in a dream world. We don't know and, truth be told, don't want or need to know all that happens to keep us safe. We do, though, need to know that our brave men and women who serve our country can have a reasonable expectation of safety on a military post!
If a military person speaks out against the military do they still belong there? Is there any room for insurrection within the ranks? Amongst civilians, yes. Amongst the military? No. There needs to be obedience unless an order goes against the good.
As much as I want to rail against the administration and all I disagree with, it is my duty to pray for them, for the military and for my country. I must trust that God has a plan for my life and part of it is to live here in the United States.
I am not convinced that my beloved country will ever be God fearing again. As a matter of fact, I see it going progressively downhill. I hope and pray that I am wrong. Whatever happens, though, will not be a surpise to God.
Let us stand firm no matter what is tossed our way.
Given the opportunity, would you rather live in a country other than the one you live in now? No. I have thought about it but can't think of one my family and I would be better off in.
Are you frustrated with your government? Very much so. No matter how often I contact my representative and senators I get the same thanks but no thanks response.
Do you think you would consider running for office? I don't see it in my future but I don't pretend to know the future.
Do you have a favorite song right now? I am very fond of Revelation Song by Phillips, Craig and Dean. It is so touching and true.
How is your life lately? Really good. I am so blessed and I choose to count my blessing rather than wallow in pity over what could be.
Himself and I celebrated 22 years of marriage this past week. We enjoyed a meal of sushi at one of our favorite restaurants and are glad for what God has blessed us with.
Our Isabella is coming into overt consciousness of this world a bit more lately. She is responding to our questions with appropriate and correct answers. It is soooo exciting!
Bless you this week and always, g
It is so hard, sometimes, to obey God's word. It says to honor our authorities because He put them there. Reading some other blogs, I see a lot of anger towards our current administration over the horrible events at Fort Hood this past week. Some say we are less safe than we were before 9/11.
To say that the average American knows what is really going on in our country is to live in a dream world. We don't know and, truth be told, don't want or need to know all that happens to keep us safe. We do, though, need to know that our brave men and women who serve our country can have a reasonable expectation of safety on a military post!
If a military person speaks out against the military do they still belong there? Is there any room for insurrection within the ranks? Amongst civilians, yes. Amongst the military? No. There needs to be obedience unless an order goes against the good.
As much as I want to rail against the administration and all I disagree with, it is my duty to pray for them, for the military and for my country. I must trust that God has a plan for my life and part of it is to live here in the United States.
I am not convinced that my beloved country will ever be God fearing again. As a matter of fact, I see it going progressively downhill. I hope and pray that I am wrong. Whatever happens, though, will not be a surpise to God.
Let us stand firm no matter what is tossed our way.
Given the opportunity, would you rather live in a country other than the one you live in now? No. I have thought about it but can't think of one my family and I would be better off in.
Are you frustrated with your government? Very much so. No matter how often I contact my representative and senators I get the same thanks but no thanks response.
Do you think you would consider running for office? I don't see it in my future but I don't pretend to know the future.
Do you have a favorite song right now? I am very fond of Revelation Song by Phillips, Craig and Dean. It is so touching and true.
How is your life lately? Really good. I am so blessed and I choose to count my blessing rather than wallow in pity over what could be.
Himself and I celebrated 22 years of marriage this past week. We enjoyed a meal of sushi at one of our favorite restaurants and are glad for what God has blessed us with.
Our Isabella is coming into overt consciousness of this world a bit more lately. She is responding to our questions with appropriate and correct answers. It is soooo exciting!
Bless you this week and always, g
Saturday, October 31, 2009
Fairly Fun Falderal
As you may or may not recall, Isabella calls me Booboo. As of today, I am her class Booboo! My friend, M, didn't think it was fair that Bells' class, which her son is in, didn't have a class parent so she volunteered. Well, where M goes g goes! I was so happy to be a part of their halloween party. (I guess the parent association didn't think kids with autism needed to have class parents. They never met M!)The Dread Pirate Bella
Personally, I don't like halloween. It's darkness disturbs my soul. People are always telling me to lighten up and get into the spirit of it. Problem is the "spirit" of it is not the spirit of God. If it is not the Spirit of God the only thing left is an ugly spirit; the spirit of darkness.
If anyone rings our bell I will hand out the bags of pretzels we bought and will be properly appreciative of the creativity involved in dressing the children up. I will not, however, get into the "spirit" of this day we call halloween.
Do you 'celebrate' halloween? See above.
Do you hand out treats? Last year and this year we decided to hand out bags of pretzels to be a little less sugary. Some years I was a grinch and didn't have anything but I realized I wasn't being a light to people.
Did you get the "Dread Pirate" reference I made? Have you ever seen Princess Bride? You would have to have to get the reference!
What is your favorite holiday? Any day I decide to have family over just because. I am not a big fan of "calendar" holidays. They stress us all out too much.
Anyone want to plan to not be around for the holidays (Thanksgiving and Christmas) with me? We can make plans!
Here's hoping all is well with you. Let me know about customs where you are. g
Personally, I don't like halloween. It's darkness disturbs my soul. People are always telling me to lighten up and get into the spirit of it. Problem is the "spirit" of it is not the spirit of God. If it is not the Spirit of God the only thing left is an ugly spirit; the spirit of darkness.
If anyone rings our bell I will hand out the bags of pretzels we bought and will be properly appreciative of the creativity involved in dressing the children up. I will not, however, get into the "spirit" of this day we call halloween.
Do you 'celebrate' halloween? See above.
Do you hand out treats? Last year and this year we decided to hand out bags of pretzels to be a little less sugary. Some years I was a grinch and didn't have anything but I realized I wasn't being a light to people.
Did you get the "Dread Pirate" reference I made? Have you ever seen Princess Bride? You would have to have to get the reference!
What is your favorite holiday? Any day I decide to have family over just because. I am not a big fan of "calendar" holidays. They stress us all out too much.
Anyone want to plan to not be around for the holidays (Thanksgiving and Christmas) with me? We can make plans!
Here's hoping all is well with you. Let me know about customs where you are. g
Saturday, October 24, 2009
Finally...
...a chance to breathe.
My trip to see my brother and his bride was great. Not only did I get to spend time with them and their wonder pup, Memphis Belle,
My trip to see my brother and his bride was great. Not only did I get to spend time with them and their wonder pup, Memphis Belle,
Locked and loaded!
All too soon the trip was over but I got to come home to a special little girl who owns my heart and my loving family. Life is good. 
Of course I needed to sleep a lot to get over all the excitement. The great Atlantic northeast is perfect for a nap with its grey skies and rain. I think I just might take advantage of it.
blessings to all, g
Of course I needed to sleep a lot to get over all the excitement. The great Atlantic northeast is perfect for a nap with its grey skies and rain. I think I just might take advantage of it.
blessings to all, g
Friday, October 9, 2009
Freaky Friday Falderal
Freaky Friday Falderal
Friday evening and, as I sit here typing this, the Yankee/Twins playoff game is on and I am scratching my head over the news of this day.
Firstly, I see that Obama won the Nobel Peace Prize. Huh? The candidates were chosen two weeks after he was sworn in. Why did he win this? Have his followers finally convinced enough people that he is the messiah? I am confused.
Then I read in the paper that my state is starting a registry for autistic people. It seems we already have registries for craniofacial problems, cardiac problems and others. It looks to me that we are being prepared for a healthcare holocaust! It is supposed to be anoymously reported by healthcare professionals. Anonymous. Right. I sense that this is a wolf in sheep's clothing. Beware when the government comes saying it is doing something to help you. Big Brother is watching.
Heard a specialist in infection and disease control say he wouldn't take or allow the swine flu vaccine to be given to his children. He said it has too many additives in it like a disinfectant that has been linked to causing autism in children with mitochondrial defects. Hellooooo! Let's use our sense, people.
My darling Isabella has a stomach something. Poor thing was crying in pain and asked me to put a band aid on her tummy. Is that too cute? Poor thing just wanted to go to sleep and woke up in pain and started throwing up. My poor baby.
Have you ever read George Orwell's 1984? Did/does it effect the way you think about government? Actually, I have never read it but know enough about the premise that it has affected my life for a long time. I don't even want EZ Pass in my car but Himself insists on it. Privacy is an illusion.
Did you or are you going to get a flu shot this year? How about the swine flu vaccine? I'm not prone to getting the flu but opted to get the shot because I need to be healthy to care for Bells. Swine flu? Not on your life! It's too new. See above.
What is your idea of an ideal Saturday off? Starting Friday night, staying up as late as I like. Saturday morning sleeping in as long as I like. Then, having a quiet house all to myself for the entire afternoon followed by a nice evening with our bcf's (best couple friends - the couple we hang out with the most).
Read any good books lately? Just finished Kathy*Reichs' latest, "206 Bones." That's how many we have in the human body. It was pretty good. I figured some of it out early on, though. Also, been reading Ecclesiastes in the Bible.
Have any trips coming up? Well, since you ask...I am going to visit my baby brother in Texas next week. I haven't seen him in two and a half years and am going to suck up my fear of flying to see him and his wonderful wife. Hopefully, Dana "Texas Mammie" and I are going to meet up for lunch.
Heard or seen any craziness in the news? Let's hear about it?
blessings, g
Friday evening and, as I sit here typing this, the Yankee/Twins playoff game is on and I am scratching my head over the news of this day.
Firstly, I see that Obama won the Nobel Peace Prize. Huh? The candidates were chosen two weeks after he was sworn in. Why did he win this? Have his followers finally convinced enough people that he is the messiah? I am confused.
Then I read in the paper that my state is starting a registry for autistic people. It seems we already have registries for craniofacial problems, cardiac problems and others. It looks to me that we are being prepared for a healthcare holocaust! It is supposed to be anoymously reported by healthcare professionals. Anonymous. Right. I sense that this is a wolf in sheep's clothing. Beware when the government comes saying it is doing something to help you. Big Brother is watching.
Heard a specialist in infection and disease control say he wouldn't take or allow the swine flu vaccine to be given to his children. He said it has too many additives in it like a disinfectant that has been linked to causing autism in children with mitochondrial defects. Hellooooo! Let's use our sense, people.
My darling Isabella has a stomach something. Poor thing was crying in pain and asked me to put a band aid on her tummy. Is that too cute? Poor thing just wanted to go to sleep and woke up in pain and started throwing up. My poor baby.
Have you ever read George Orwell's 1984? Did/does it effect the way you think about government? Actually, I have never read it but know enough about the premise that it has affected my life for a long time. I don't even want EZ Pass in my car but Himself insists on it. Privacy is an illusion.
Did you or are you going to get a flu shot this year? How about the swine flu vaccine? I'm not prone to getting the flu but opted to get the shot because I need to be healthy to care for Bells. Swine flu? Not on your life! It's too new. See above.
What is your idea of an ideal Saturday off? Starting Friday night, staying up as late as I like. Saturday morning sleeping in as long as I like. Then, having a quiet house all to myself for the entire afternoon followed by a nice evening with our bcf's (best couple friends - the couple we hang out with the most).
Read any good books lately? Just finished Kathy*Reichs' latest, "206 Bones." That's how many we have in the human body. It was pretty good. I figured some of it out early on, though. Also, been reading Ecclesiastes in the Bible.
Have any trips coming up? Well, since you ask...I am going to visit my baby brother in Texas next week. I haven't seen him in two and a half years and am going to suck up my fear of flying to see him and his wonderful wife. Hopefully, Dana "Texas Mammie" and I are going to meet up for lunch.
Heard or seen any craziness in the news? Let's hear about it?
blessings, g
Sunday, October 4, 2009
Fear I'm Failing Falderal
October 04
Fear I'm Failing Falderal
I hate not keeping up with the falderal. By the time Friday rolls around, I am beat. I'm trying!
Around here, life is rarely boring. We may not be the most active family but our lives are full. My calendar used to have a lot of empty spaces but they are filling up quickly these days.
We need to be careful, though, of busyness. We were reminded in this morning's sermon that busyness can keep us from the truly important things in life like spending time with God and reading his word.
Busyness takes form in many ways. Those with young families find themselves running the children to this, that and the other thing after having a full day working at home or on site. Watching a lot of tv, my vice, keeps me "busy" when there is much else I can be doing. Fantasy football keeps my son glued to the tv and his laptop all Sunday. Web browsing, texting, shopping; all ways to keep busy.
What's keeping you busy today? My busyness today in particular was taking a nap! I am here on my netbook and football is on.
Do you allow too much busyness in your life? Allow? When it comes to tv and the computer, yes. Taking care of Isabella as much as I do is a blessing but not something I "choose" to do. It would be nice to have some options.
Do you "get" fantasy football? I just explained what I think it is to my son and he said I was right. Yea me!
What would you like to be busier doing? Reading scripture and spending time with God; fruitful time with God. This has taken such a back seat to tv and the computer and it is time to get right again.
What can you give up or cut back on to reach the goal in the last question? I have a habit of turning on the tv shortly after I wake up to see what is going on in the world. That can wait.
How are you? I hope and pray that all is well with and yours. Drop me a comment and let me know, okay? g
Fear I'm Failing Falderal
I hate not keeping up with the falderal. By the time Friday rolls around, I am beat. I'm trying!
Around here, life is rarely boring. We may not be the most active family but our lives are full. My calendar used to have a lot of empty spaces but they are filling up quickly these days.
We need to be careful, though, of busyness. We were reminded in this morning's sermon that busyness can keep us from the truly important things in life like spending time with God and reading his word.
Busyness takes form in many ways. Those with young families find themselves running the children to this, that and the other thing after having a full day working at home or on site. Watching a lot of tv, my vice, keeps me "busy" when there is much else I can be doing. Fantasy football keeps my son glued to the tv and his laptop all Sunday. Web browsing, texting, shopping; all ways to keep busy.
What's keeping you busy today? My busyness today in particular was taking a nap! I am here on my netbook and football is on.
Do you allow too much busyness in your life? Allow? When it comes to tv and the computer, yes. Taking care of Isabella as much as I do is a blessing but not something I "choose" to do. It would be nice to have some options.
Do you "get" fantasy football? I just explained what I think it is to my son and he said I was right. Yea me!
What would you like to be busier doing? Reading scripture and spending time with God; fruitful time with God. This has taken such a back seat to tv and the computer and it is time to get right again.
What can you give up or cut back on to reach the goal in the last question? I have a habit of turning on the tv shortly after I wake up to see what is going on in the world. That can wait.
How are you? I hope and pray that all is well with and yours. Drop me a comment and let me know, okay? g
Sunday, September 27, 2009
Rerun Plus
A little something from a few years ago:
November 25, 2006
True Colors (Colours for my English Influenced Buds)
Recently, I learned that the colors leaves turn in autumn are the true colors of the leaves. Green is their camouflage for the summer because of a little thing called chlorophyll. (My dictionary is getting a good working out with this post!)
Autumn is my favorite season. The crisp air and the changing leaves. Maybe one of the reasons it is so beautiful is because we are seeing true colors instead of a facade (not to say that the green of summer isn't stunning).
Truth is, everyone wears a facade at least some of the time. Most people wear a mask to keep from getting hurt. Don't you agree? It is my experience that, when I am able to gain the trust of someone and their mask is down, I see such beautiful colors! True colors! When the true colors of a person are evil, I try to be loyal in praying that they will find the Savior so their colors will become vibrantly beautiful. God wishes that all would come to Him and be in communion with Him.
September 27, 2009
I love, love, love autumn; the sights and smells. I wish I could transport those of you who have never experienced this season here.
Himself and I went with friends to their shore house this weekend. It was too windy for the beach so we hung out on the balcony and inside and then went to a fab restaurant for dinner. It's always good to spend time with them.
Sorry for not posting a falderal last week. It completely slipped my mind. This Friday, okay?
Blessings for the week to come, g
November 25, 2006
True Colors (Colours for my English Influenced Buds)
Recently, I learned that the colors leaves turn in autumn are the true colors of the leaves. Green is their camouflage for the summer because of a little thing called chlorophyll. (My dictionary is getting a good working out with this post!)
Autumn is my favorite season. The crisp air and the changing leaves. Maybe one of the reasons it is so beautiful is because we are seeing true colors instead of a facade (not to say that the green of summer isn't stunning).
Truth is, everyone wears a facade at least some of the time. Most people wear a mask to keep from getting hurt. Don't you agree? It is my experience that, when I am able to gain the trust of someone and their mask is down, I see such beautiful colors! True colors! When the true colors of a person are evil, I try to be loyal in praying that they will find the Savior so their colors will become vibrantly beautiful. God wishes that all would come to Him and be in communion with Him.
September 27, 2009
I love, love, love autumn; the sights and smells. I wish I could transport those of you who have never experienced this season here.
Himself and I went with friends to their shore house this weekend. It was too windy for the beach so we hung out on the balcony and inside and then went to a fab restaurant for dinner. It's always good to spend time with them.
Sorry for not posting a falderal last week. It completely slipped my mind. This Friday, okay?
Blessings for the week to come, g
Friday, September 18, 2009
Feeling Free Falderal
September 18
For the last two and a half years (three and a half if you count a false start), I have been working through the book Walls of My Heart by Dr. Bruce Thompson and Barbara Thompson. It is described as "Powerful Keys to Breaking Out and Being Free."
Since I was fifteen years old, I have been in and out of therapy. All those counselors, all those years prepared my for this journey through which I was led by, for the most part, my friend Am. I learned that I had built walls of sadness, insecurity, bitterness, anger and many more negatives around my heart. My experience taught me why I put them there, how to tear them down and how to build new walls which are healthy for me and pleasing to God.
There is so much I want to write but I am hoping that maybe some of you will take this journey. If you have no one here to guide you through it, I hope you will ask the Holy Spirit to guide you. I will be happy to answer questions via e-mails.
The weekend is upon us and it couldn't have come too soon! I'm beat. Isabella is my companion from seven am til school starts at nine and then I pick her up at two thirty. She is with us until six pm. I love her more than anything in this world - still, weekends are good!
Do you have anyone you can talk to about what's on your mind? I am blessed in that area. I have wise friends and a great mom.
Breakfast sausage or bacon? Neither! What are you trying to do, kill me? My cholesterol is high enough. Who thinks up these questions anyway. Besides, I hate the spicing in breakfast sausage.
Do you think about whether or not what you watch or read effects you spiritually? More than ever before. I have learned that a person's brain retains memories so well that, when having brain surgery in the memory portion of the brain, memories and the feelings that went along with them are relived when probed! I must be careful what I put in here.
You can be instantly transported anywhere in the world right now for three hours. Where would you go? As of this moment, I would go to be with my friend V in South Africa to take care of her because she is sick.
Once again, are you ready for some football??? Last Sunday, because we have the NFL channel, we also have a channel called Red Zone. It is five hours of non-commercial football switching from game to game when teams get close to the twenty yard line or further if the other teams are on commercial break. My son and his buddies had a hard time tearing themselves away for potty breaks! Himself and I went to a fair in town for an hour but I enjoyed the games with the guys while reading a book.
Let me know what you are up to, people. Sending blessings your way, g
For the last two and a half years (three and a half if you count a false start), I have been working through the book Walls of My Heart by Dr. Bruce Thompson and Barbara Thompson. It is described as "Powerful Keys to Breaking Out and Being Free."
Since I was fifteen years old, I have been in and out of therapy. All those counselors, all those years prepared my for this journey through which I was led by, for the most part, my friend Am. I learned that I had built walls of sadness, insecurity, bitterness, anger and many more negatives around my heart. My experience taught me why I put them there, how to tear them down and how to build new walls which are healthy for me and pleasing to God.
There is so much I want to write but I am hoping that maybe some of you will take this journey. If you have no one here to guide you through it, I hope you will ask the Holy Spirit to guide you. I will be happy to answer questions via e-mails.
The weekend is upon us and it couldn't have come too soon! I'm beat. Isabella is my companion from seven am til school starts at nine and then I pick her up at two thirty. She is with us until six pm. I love her more than anything in this world - still, weekends are good!
Do you have anyone you can talk to about what's on your mind? I am blessed in that area. I have wise friends and a great mom.
Breakfast sausage or bacon? Neither! What are you trying to do, kill me? My cholesterol is high enough. Who thinks up these questions anyway. Besides, I hate the spicing in breakfast sausage.
Do you think about whether or not what you watch or read effects you spiritually? More than ever before. I have learned that a person's brain retains memories so well that, when having brain surgery in the memory portion of the brain, memories and the feelings that went along with them are relived when probed! I must be careful what I put in here.
You can be instantly transported anywhere in the world right now for three hours. Where would you go? As of this moment, I would go to be with my friend V in South Africa to take care of her because she is sick.
Once again, are you ready for some football??? Last Sunday, because we have the NFL channel, we also have a channel called Red Zone. It is five hours of non-commercial football switching from game to game when teams get close to the twenty yard line or further if the other teams are on commercial break. My son and his buddies had a hard time tearing themselves away for potty breaks! Himself and I went to a fair in town for an hour but I enjoyed the games with the guys while reading a book.
Let me know what you are up to, people. Sending blessings your way, g
Friday, September 11, 2009
First Amendment Freedom
September 11
I Won't Forget
It was a beautiful day much like today. Temperature was around 70 and school had just started again after a long summer break. I had just finished an exercise video and was about to start the treadmill when I turned on the tv. Instead of the regular programming the station was showing a view of the World Trade Center which was expelling billowing, dark gray smoke.
I called Himself at work to see what the buzz was there since he was in the travel industry. They thought it was a small plane gone astray just as one did at the Empire State Building many years ago. While we were talking, a second plane went into the other Tower and I screamed, "OhmyGod! OhmyGod! OhmyGod! It was then we knew we were being attacked.
After hanging up with Himself, I tried to go on the treadmill. Was it shock? A need for normalcy or routine in my world which had just been turned upside down? I can't tell you but I remember that I couldn't stay on that machine but, instead, sat riveted to the television.
I called my sister and gave her office the lowdown. I called my parents, brother, friends and told those who hadn't heard yet to put on their tv's. What channel, they asked. Any channel.
Thinking about bioterrorism, I went to the nearest supermarket and bought twenty-two gallons of water and two gallons of bleach for purifying water. I then filled up my gas tank and told the Arab attendant to be careful. Next was a stop at my dd's home. She was a mess but I knew that her friends were on their way so I went to The Boy's school.
The Boy was in the lunch room and I explained to him and his friends what was happening as calmly as possible. They didn't seem spooked so I asked my boy if he wanted to stay in school and be brave for his friends. He said yes. As I was leaving, I stopped in at the nurse's office. I told her I didn't know what was the right thing to do. She told me that, yes, I did know. I immediately went back to the lunch room and took my son home.
Himself was not permitted to leave work until three that afternoon. We had to turn off the television despite the fact that I didn't want to. It just wasn't good for our boy to watch this over and over again.
Living close to a very busy airport we are quite used to hearing planes going overhead at any time of the day. One of the most eerie parts of that day was the silence of commuter jet traffic and the roar of military jets and the pulsing of helicopter rotors which occasionally swept by.
We had no idea what was to come next. All we knew was that we were together, God was and is alive and well and that His eye was/is on us.
Truth be told, I don't remember much else about that day. I was helping to care for a friend who was dying of cancer and had to compartmentalize everything to be able to cope. In the following months, I became anorexic (not for the first time), my son graduated from sixth grade, my dear friend died and I went into an eating disorders facility for three weeks to keep from dying myself. However, on September 11, 2002, the trauma hit me big time. I kept expecting the same thing to happen. It didn't, thankfully, but the PTSD Alien Hunter speaks of was and, I believe, is still rampant in these here parts.
On this fifth anniversay, I sit here and wonder when the next attack will occur and if it will happen in the same places. Could my son cope with watching a site in NYC smoking and burning for two months again? I don't care what your political leanings are but I believe this administration has strengthened our security greatly. Our borders are still porous and that is a problem we need to deal with. Whether or not we belong in Iraq will not be discussed on this site and I will immediately delete any posts referring to it.
One of my greatest fears is that we, as a nation, have become complacent. Yes, we have to get on with our lives. However, there are people who complain about taking off their shoes before hopping on a plane and many who no longer fly their flags like we did five years ago. The taxis in NYC are honking their horns loudly again unlike the control they showed for what I believe was months after 9/11.
One good change has remained, though. We say, "I love you," much more freely than we did five years ago. We are much more aware of how fragile and finite our lives are. This is a very good thing.
Fly Old Glory proudly, my friends, and pray for our nation.
I Won't Forget
It was a beautiful day much like today. Temperature was around 70 and school had just started again after a long summer break. I had just finished an exercise video and was about to start the treadmill when I turned on the tv. Instead of the regular programming the station was showing a view of the World Trade Center which was expelling billowing, dark gray smoke.
I called Himself at work to see what the buzz was there since he was in the travel industry. They thought it was a small plane gone astray just as one did at the Empire State Building many years ago. While we were talking, a second plane went into the other Tower and I screamed, "OhmyGod! OhmyGod! OhmyGod! It was then we knew we were being attacked.
After hanging up with Himself, I tried to go on the treadmill. Was it shock? A need for normalcy or routine in my world which had just been turned upside down? I can't tell you but I remember that I couldn't stay on that machine but, instead, sat riveted to the television.
I called my sister and gave her office the lowdown. I called my parents, brother, friends and told those who hadn't heard yet to put on their tv's. What channel, they asked. Any channel.
Thinking about bioterrorism, I went to the nearest supermarket and bought twenty-two gallons of water and two gallons of bleach for purifying water. I then filled up my gas tank and told the Arab attendant to be careful. Next was a stop at my dd's home. She was a mess but I knew that her friends were on their way so I went to The Boy's school.
The Boy was in the lunch room and I explained to him and his friends what was happening as calmly as possible. They didn't seem spooked so I asked my boy if he wanted to stay in school and be brave for his friends. He said yes. As I was leaving, I stopped in at the nurse's office. I told her I didn't know what was the right thing to do. She told me that, yes, I did know. I immediately went back to the lunch room and took my son home.
Himself was not permitted to leave work until three that afternoon. We had to turn off the television despite the fact that I didn't want to. It just wasn't good for our boy to watch this over and over again.
Living close to a very busy airport we are quite used to hearing planes going overhead at any time of the day. One of the most eerie parts of that day was the silence of commuter jet traffic and the roar of military jets and the pulsing of helicopter rotors which occasionally swept by.
We had no idea what was to come next. All we knew was that we were together, God was and is alive and well and that His eye was/is on us.
Truth be told, I don't remember much else about that day. I was helping to care for a friend who was dying of cancer and had to compartmentalize everything to be able to cope. In the following months, I became anorexic (not for the first time), my son graduated from sixth grade, my dear friend died and I went into an eating disorders facility for three weeks to keep from dying myself. However, on September 11, 2002, the trauma hit me big time. I kept expecting the same thing to happen. It didn't, thankfully, but the PTSD Alien Hunter speaks of was and, I believe, is still rampant in these here parts.
On this fifth anniversay, I sit here and wonder when the next attack will occur and if it will happen in the same places. Could my son cope with watching a site in NYC smoking and burning for two months again? I don't care what your political leanings are but I believe this administration has strengthened our security greatly. Our borders are still porous and that is a problem we need to deal with. Whether or not we belong in Iraq will not be discussed on this site and I will immediately delete any posts referring to it.
One of my greatest fears is that we, as a nation, have become complacent. Yes, we have to get on with our lives. However, there are people who complain about taking off their shoes before hopping on a plane and many who no longer fly their flags like we did five years ago. The taxis in NYC are honking their horns loudly again unlike the control they showed for what I believe was months after 9/11.
One good change has remained, though. We say, "I love you," much more freely than we did five years ago. We are much more aware of how fragile and finite our lives are. This is a very good thing.
Fly Old Glory proudly, my friends, and pray for our nation.
Friday, September 4, 2009
Fun, Fatique and Farewells Falderal
It was quite a week here in gville. I watched Isabella four of five days (I told The Girl to get someone else to watch her on Thursday when I could barely keep my eyes open Wednesday from insomnia and fatigue).
We visited a great park on Monday, the same park on Tuesday with a school chum and his mom and two sisters and a local zoo on Wednesday. Exhausting and fun.
As for farewell, we attended a wake this afternoon. Our bcf's sister-in-law passed after a long illness. Only 69 years old. God rest her soul. She and her husband were sweethearts from the time they were fourteen and fifteen.
Life can sure throw us curve balls. What's the old saying, "We make plans and God laughs?"
We never planned on having a grandchild with autism but here we are. We are blessed that our Bells can communicate for the most part. I have been noticing some behaviors lately that are disheartening but we can address them with her teacher and therapists when school starts next week.
As you all know, we wouldn't trade our Isabella for a neurotypical child. She is who she is and autism is a part of her. Eventually, she will, more than likely, be in a regular classroom. She will probably always have "eccentric" ways about her. Truth be told, it is my own eccentricities that I tend to like best about myself! My buddy, M, says I am definitely on the spectrum! (Her son is in Bells' class and we can kid around like that.)
Do you have any interaction with a person with autism? Well, uh, yea! Bells and now her friend. It is an educational experience nearly every day. Am I happy for the education? Most days.
What do you know more about than you would have chosen to know about? Cancer and autism. I have had more experience with them having to do with people I love than I would ever choose to.
Have you ever gone skydiving? Would you? Are you out of your cotton pickin' mind?!
What would you like to try to do that you haven't done before? Hmmm...why do I ask questions I don't have a ready answer for? How about a missions trip. I like my comfort zone and could use an attitude adjustment.
Is there any such thing as an honest politician? Oh, I hope so.
For my American friends, enjoy your Labor Day weekend. For everyone else, enjoy your regular weekend!
blessings, gail
We visited a great park on Monday, the same park on Tuesday with a school chum and his mom and two sisters and a local zoo on Wednesday. Exhausting and fun.
As for farewell, we attended a wake this afternoon. Our bcf's sister-in-law passed after a long illness. Only 69 years old. God rest her soul. She and her husband were sweethearts from the time they were fourteen and fifteen.
Life can sure throw us curve balls. What's the old saying, "We make plans and God laughs?"
We never planned on having a grandchild with autism but here we are. We are blessed that our Bells can communicate for the most part. I have been noticing some behaviors lately that are disheartening but we can address them with her teacher and therapists when school starts next week.
As you all know, we wouldn't trade our Isabella for a neurotypical child. She is who she is and autism is a part of her. Eventually, she will, more than likely, be in a regular classroom. She will probably always have "eccentric" ways about her. Truth be told, it is my own eccentricities that I tend to like best about myself! My buddy, M, says I am definitely on the spectrum! (Her son is in Bells' class and we can kid around like that.)
Do you have any interaction with a person with autism? Well, uh, yea! Bells and now her friend. It is an educational experience nearly every day. Am I happy for the education? Most days.
What do you know more about than you would have chosen to know about? Cancer and autism. I have had more experience with them having to do with people I love than I would ever choose to.
Have you ever gone skydiving? Would you? Are you out of your cotton pickin' mind?!
What would you like to try to do that you haven't done before? Hmmm...why do I ask questions I don't have a ready answer for? How about a missions trip. I like my comfort zone and could use an attitude adjustment.
Is there any such thing as an honest politician? Oh, I hope so.
For my American friends, enjoy your Labor Day weekend. For everyone else, enjoy your regular weekend!
blessings, gail
Friday, August 28, 2009
Feeling Faint Falderal
Not really. Just very tired. The fms has knocked me for a loop and all I want to do is sleep. It could be much, much worse.
You know how each occupation or lifestyle has its own humor? When I worked in a hospital, the jokes we told there did not translate into the every day world. People thought it morbid. Same thing with ethnic jokes, senior moments, etc.
Talking with one of Isabella's schoolmate's mom's, M, I questioned her about what she thinks is acceptable in the world of people who love someone who has autism. I told her that I almost wrote out the comment, "At least, with her autism, Isabella always has someone to talk to." (see http://conquerautism.com/blog/?tag=scripting) M laughed and agreed that others wouldn't get it. As a matter of fact, they might think it cruel when it is just the statement of a gram who loves her grandchild more than she could ever think it possible to!
There is a site that sells t-shirts such as "Proud Grandparent of an Autistic Granddaughter." Another shirt states, "Autism rocks! And flaps and spins..." Would you be apalled to see that last one? M said that is her favorite! My daughter is afraid to wear that one because she is afraid she might hurt the feelings of one of the other parents at school.
I guess it is a matter of what one is comfortable with and the spirit in which they present it. For some, one of those shirts is the same as the having an autism awareness magnet on their car. Still, maybe I ought to stick with something like this: Or, more importantly, this:
Do you work in a field or have an interest where the humor related to it doesn't translate to the rest of the world? See above.
Other than sleep, how to you get beyond fatigue? Going for a walk might work.
Any plans for the weekend? My greatniece is being dedicated on Sunday and I am attending the party and service. It will be good to have the family together.
Are you sad because summer is waning or are you looking forward to autumn? The only sad part of summer ending for me is the shortened daylight hours. Other than that, bring on the crisp, cool days of autumn!
Sing or hum? Used to be sing all the time but I find I don't know as many words as I do tunes these days so humming it is!
Hoping that all is well in your world, g
You know how each occupation or lifestyle has its own humor? When I worked in a hospital, the jokes we told there did not translate into the every day world. People thought it morbid. Same thing with ethnic jokes, senior moments, etc.
Talking with one of Isabella's schoolmate's mom's, M, I questioned her about what she thinks is acceptable in the world of people who love someone who has autism. I told her that I almost wrote out the comment, "At least, with her autism, Isabella always has someone to talk to." (see http://conquerautism.com/blog/?tag=scripting) M laughed and agreed that others wouldn't get it. As a matter of fact, they might think it cruel when it is just the statement of a gram who loves her grandchild more than she could ever think it possible to!
There is a site that sells t-shirts such as "Proud Grandparent of an Autistic Granddaughter." Another shirt states, "Autism rocks! And flaps and spins..." Would you be apalled to see that last one? M said that is her favorite! My daughter is afraid to wear that one because she is afraid she might hurt the feelings of one of the other parents at school.
I guess it is a matter of what one is comfortable with and the spirit in which they present it. For some, one of those shirts is the same as the having an autism awareness magnet on their car. Still, maybe I ought to stick with something like this: Or, more importantly, this:
Do you work in a field or have an interest where the humor related to it doesn't translate to the rest of the world? See above.
Other than sleep, how to you get beyond fatigue? Going for a walk might work.
Any plans for the weekend? My greatniece is being dedicated on Sunday and I am attending the party and service. It will be good to have the family together.
Are you sad because summer is waning or are you looking forward to autumn? The only sad part of summer ending for me is the shortened daylight hours. Other than that, bring on the crisp, cool days of autumn!
Sing or hum? Used to be sing all the time but I find I don't know as many words as I do tunes these days so humming it is!
Hoping that all is well in your world, g
Feeling Faint Falderal
Not really. Just very tired. The fms has knocked me for a loop and all I want to do is sleep. It could be much, much worse.
You know how each occupation or lifestyle has its own humor? When I worked in a hospital, the jokes we told there did not translate into the every day world. People thought it morbid. Same thing with ethnic jokes, senior moments, etc.
Talking with one of Isabella's schoolmate's mom's, M, I questioned her about what she thinks is acceptable in the world of people who love someone who has autism. I told her that I almost wrote out the comment, "At least, with her autism, Isabella always has someone to talk to." (see http://conquerautism.com/blog/?tag=scripting) M laughed and agreed that others wouldn't get it. As a matter of fact, they might think it cruel when it is just the statement of a gram who loves her grandchild more than she could ever think it possible to!
There is a site that sells t-shirts such as "Proud Grandparent of an Autistic Granddaughter." Another shirt states, "Autism rocks! And flaps and spins..." Would you be apalled to see that last one? M said that is her favorite! My daughter is afraid to wear that one because she is afraid she might hurt the feelings of one of the other parents at school.
I guess it is a matter of what one is comfortable with and the spirit in which they present it. For some, one of those shirts is the same as the having an autism awareness magnet on their car. Still, maybe I ought to stick with something like this: Or, more importantly, this:
Do you work in a field or have an interest where the humor related to it doesn't translate to the rest of the world? See above.
Other than sleep, how to you get beyond fatigue? Going for a walk might work.
Any plans for the weekend? My greatniece is being dedicated on Sunday and I am attending the party and service. It will be good to have the family together.
Are you sad because summer is waning or are you looking forward to autumn? The only sad part of summer ending for me is the shortened daylight hours. Other than that, bring on the crisp, cool days of autumn!
Sing or hum? Used to be sing all the time but I find I don't know as many words as I do tunes these days so humming it is!
Hoping that all is well in your world, g
You know how each occupation or lifestyle has its own humor? When I worked in a hospital, the jokes we told there did not translate into the every day world. People thought it morbid. Same thing with ethnic jokes, senior moments, etc.
Talking with one of Isabella's schoolmate's mom's, M, I questioned her about what she thinks is acceptable in the world of people who love someone who has autism. I told her that I almost wrote out the comment, "At least, with her autism, Isabella always has someone to talk to." (see http://conquerautism.com/blog/?tag=scripting) M laughed and agreed that others wouldn't get it. As a matter of fact, they might think it cruel when it is just the statement of a gram who loves her grandchild more than she could ever think it possible to!
There is a site that sells t-shirts such as "Proud Grandparent of an Autistic Granddaughter." Another shirt states, "Autism rocks! And flaps and spins..." Would you be apalled to see that last one? M said that is her favorite! My daughter is afraid to wear that one because she is afraid she might hurt the feelings of one of the other parents at school.
I guess it is a matter of what one is comfortable with and the spirit in which they present it. For some, one of those shirts is the same as the having an autism awareness magnet on their car. Still, maybe I ought to stick with something like this: Or, more importantly, this:
Do you work in a field or have an interest where the humor related to it doesn't translate to the rest of the world? See above.
Other than sleep, how to you get beyond fatigue? Going for a walk might work.
Any plans for the weekend? My greatniece is being dedicated on Sunday and I am attending the party and service. It will be good to have the family together.
Are you sad because summer is waning or are you looking forward to autumn? The only sad part of summer ending for me is the shortened daylight hours. Other than that, bring on the crisp, cool days of autumn!
Sing or hum? Used to be sing all the time but I find I don't know as many words as I do tunes these days so humming it is!
Hoping that all is well in your world, g
Friday, August 21, 2009
Flitting Around and Fun Falderal
Ms. Lisbeth pointed out to me that I am getting out a lot more than I used to. Wow. It hadn't hit me but it is absolutely true. Having been agoraphobic in the past this is very big.
Just this week alone:
Saturday - out to dinner with the in-laws
Sunday - wedding
Monday - out for the afternoon with Himself
Tuesday and Wednesday - our friends' townhouse down the Jersey shore
Thursday - watched Isabella and then went out to dinner with friends whom I haven't seen in about twenty years
Friday - watched Isabella and out to lunch with a friend visiting from Australia
Tomorrow - baby shower at a "posh" place
Today, we booked a flight for me to go to Texas to visit my baby bro in October. I hate to fly but really want to see my brother and his wife. And I am going alone! Himself has his yearly, sometimes twice yearly, visits with his navy buddies and sometimes goes out to Colorado with a buddy to visit a childhood friend. This will be my time. Also, my brother is fourteen years younger than I and it is a sister/mom/son kind of relationship. He's a great kid! And his wife is tops in my book because she makes him happy.
Isabella is still making me laugh. Doesn't matter how bad a mood I am in; she can make me laugh. Now that I am trying to come up with an example I can't think of one but I laughed quite a bit these last two days. She is making good progress in her communication skills. I am hearing more complete sentences instead of one or two word statements or questions. Now, if we can only get her potty trained.....
The daylight hours are waning. It is now almost dark at eight in the evening (we are at the eastern end of a time zone). That is the only thing that bothers me about the end of summer. In a sermon a couple of weeks ago, the pastor spoke about the negativity of grumbling. It has helped me keep myself in check so I will not go on about how horrid the heat and humidity have been. I will just mention it. Aren't you so proud of me?
That part about not grumbling can be a real life changer. The more one grumbles the more negative their life. It's always been hard for me to not be negative. I figured that pessimists are rarely disappointed. That may be true but it is a lousy way to live. I'm so glad I have friends who help me to lighten up.
Do you tend to be an optimist or a pessimist? I am turning into someone who is cautiously optimistic. I believe I know what is real and what is not and know not to waste my time obsessing on things I can't change. At least I am learning how to.
How is your self image? It has been horrible for years. However, as I learn to like myself, I am taking steps towards accepting and maybe even liking how I look. It has been difficult looking in the mirror at a person who looks like my gram. Yes, I do look like my gram. However, she was a much loved woman who was beautiful from the inside out. Not a bad thing to aspire to, eh?
What is your clothing style? Can you tell I have am watching What Not To Wear as I type this? A statement they made is really bothering me: you should feel beautiful in everything you wear. I have very little clothing because I am cheap when it comes to buying things for myself. I don't usually feel pretty in what I am wearing. I want to change that one piece of clothing at a time whether I am overweight or not.
Do you pay full retail? No! Maybe that is why I don't dress all that well!
Do you enjoy the Duggar family? Very much so.
I appreciate you, g
Just this week alone:
Saturday - out to dinner with the in-laws
Sunday - wedding
Monday - out for the afternoon with Himself
Tuesday and Wednesday - our friends' townhouse down the Jersey shore
Thursday - watched Isabella and then went out to dinner with friends whom I haven't seen in about twenty years
Friday - watched Isabella and out to lunch with a friend visiting from Australia
Tomorrow - baby shower at a "posh" place
Today, we booked a flight for me to go to Texas to visit my baby bro in October. I hate to fly but really want to see my brother and his wife. And I am going alone! Himself has his yearly, sometimes twice yearly, visits with his navy buddies and sometimes goes out to Colorado with a buddy to visit a childhood friend. This will be my time. Also, my brother is fourteen years younger than I and it is a sister/mom/son kind of relationship. He's a great kid! And his wife is tops in my book because she makes him happy.
Isabella is still making me laugh. Doesn't matter how bad a mood I am in; she can make me laugh. Now that I am trying to come up with an example I can't think of one but I laughed quite a bit these last two days. She is making good progress in her communication skills. I am hearing more complete sentences instead of one or two word statements or questions. Now, if we can only get her potty trained.....
The daylight hours are waning. It is now almost dark at eight in the evening (we are at the eastern end of a time zone). That is the only thing that bothers me about the end of summer. In a sermon a couple of weeks ago, the pastor spoke about the negativity of grumbling. It has helped me keep myself in check so I will not go on about how horrid the heat and humidity have been. I will just mention it. Aren't you so proud of me?
That part about not grumbling can be a real life changer. The more one grumbles the more negative their life. It's always been hard for me to not be negative. I figured that pessimists are rarely disappointed. That may be true but it is a lousy way to live. I'm so glad I have friends who help me to lighten up.
Do you tend to be an optimist or a pessimist? I am turning into someone who is cautiously optimistic. I believe I know what is real and what is not and know not to waste my time obsessing on things I can't change. At least I am learning how to.
How is your self image? It has been horrible for years. However, as I learn to like myself, I am taking steps towards accepting and maybe even liking how I look. It has been difficult looking in the mirror at a person who looks like my gram. Yes, I do look like my gram. However, she was a much loved woman who was beautiful from the inside out. Not a bad thing to aspire to, eh?
What is your clothing style? Can you tell I have am watching What Not To Wear as I type this? A statement they made is really bothering me: you should feel beautiful in everything you wear. I have very little clothing because I am cheap when it comes to buying things for myself. I don't usually feel pretty in what I am wearing. I want to change that one piece of clothing at a time whether I am overweight or not.
Do you pay full retail? No! Maybe that is why I don't dress all that well!
Do you enjoy the Duggar family? Very much so.
I appreciate you, g
Friday, August 14, 2009
Fear, Folly or Fully Functional
What will become of our "special" children with the new healthcare this administration is trying to pass? Will they be treated in the same way people of "mental incapacity" were treated in Nazi Germany? Will we have to reprise the White Rose Society (http://www.shoaheducation.com/whiterose.html).
The more I read and hear of this new health plan the more frightened I get. Has anyone heard anything about what is in store for our children? There is money that is supposed to be earmarked for autism research. Do we believe it will ever see the light of day?
Our society has lost its respect for life be it the beginning of life or the end of it. Each of us is precious in His sight. Please, keep your eyes and ears open and don't let our elected officials stuff what you don't want down your throat.
Are you a healthy person? For the most part, yes. I rarely get sick.
If you are healthy, what is your secret? Chocolate. No, only kidding. I hardly ever eat it any more because it took over my life. I would have to say it is by the grace of God that I am healthy. I have things to do for Him and I have to be healthy to do them. If I am sick, there is a good reason for it.
Favorite cookie? Chewy lace cookies with chocolate sandwiched between them.
Favorite cake? German Chocolate.
Favorite exercise? Sleeping. Oh, if I had to choose it would be walking.
Stay safe, dear ones. Be vigilant. blessings, gail
The more I read and hear of this new health plan the more frightened I get. Has anyone heard anything about what is in store for our children? There is money that is supposed to be earmarked for autism research. Do we believe it will ever see the light of day?
Our society has lost its respect for life be it the beginning of life or the end of it. Each of us is precious in His sight. Please, keep your eyes and ears open and don't let our elected officials stuff what you don't want down your throat.
Are you a healthy person? For the most part, yes. I rarely get sick.
If you are healthy, what is your secret? Chocolate. No, only kidding. I hardly ever eat it any more because it took over my life. I would have to say it is by the grace of God that I am healthy. I have things to do for Him and I have to be healthy to do them. If I am sick, there is a good reason for it.
Favorite cookie? Chewy lace cookies with chocolate sandwiched between them.
Favorite cake? German Chocolate.
Favorite exercise? Sleeping. Oh, if I had to choose it would be walking.
Stay safe, dear ones. Be vigilant. blessings, gail
Saturday, August 8, 2009
Flower Flim-Flam Falderal
Isabella loves, loves, LOVES flowers! My mother-in-law has a silk arrangement that has been decimated over the last couple of years from her allowing Bells to have one flower after another whenever she visits and asks for it.
When I picked Bells up from school today, she said, "My pink flowler (Bella speak)!" She was beside herself that she had left her flower behind.
We knocked on the door and rang the bell to the school and the psychologist who works with the little ones answered let us in. We found the teacher and found out that, no, Isbella didn't have any flowers. However, the aides and psychologist were all given a bouquet by the teacher. Dr. P, with the teacher's okay, happily gave her bouquet of pink "flowlers" to Isabella who has been carrying them around all day still wrapped in clear plastic!
Are we blessed or what? We are surrounded by lovely people and for that I am grateful. There's so much garbage going on in the world and it is great to be blessed.
Have you been blessed by someone today? Along with what I wrote above, it has been a good day. Isabella has behaved well and is healthy and a short visit to two of our favorite cafe owners was delightful. Also, I know I am prayed for daily and that adds to my blessings.
Is there something you do or try to do on a regular basis to bless other peoples' lives? I try to remember to look cashiers in the eye at the check out and give them a smile and a thank you.
Do you like to swim? Can you swim well? I was a strong swimmer last time I took a dip. As I have mentioned before, I don't like to be wet but learned how to swim at a young age.
Ocean, lake or pool? If I had to choose? Pool; least amount of slimy things.
Ideally, if you could do anything you wanted to do anywhere you wanted to do for the next four days what would it be? I would like to be in a place that feels like home but is in a wooded area. I would have a couple of good books and friends popping in and out at all times of the day and evening and good black and white movies and a blue ray. I would like to sleep soundly for a good nine hours straight and feel refreshed for the first time in 29 years.
However, the reality is that The Girl and Bells are supposed to finally be moving back here this weekend. As she finally has a job, she needs to save enough to move on her own again. The Girl, that is;) I'm not looking forward to it as we have a humble home but we are blessed to be able to keep this house for now at least.
Be blessed, dear ones, g
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