~A Life Of Grace~

The Simple Woman's Daybook

2012-01-24T11:54:00.000-08:00

For today.....Tuesday, January 24, 2012

Outside my window....it's a cold, overcast and foggy day outside. The forecast right now is 40 degrees, with a high of 57 degrees expected. The fog is supposed to burn off later, so we should hopefully have some sunshine.

I am thinking.....Megan and Parker came by yesterday morning for a few hours. It was nice to have them visit. Parker was really happy to spend some time with his grandpa! ♥

In the kitchen.....I'm going to fix spaghetti and a green salad for dinner.

A couple of ladies asked if I would share the Cherry Chicken recipe from last week. Thank you for asking...

(I forgot to take a photo, so this isn't mine.)

Cherry Chicken
4 boneless chicken breasts
1 jar cherry preserves
1 egg
Italian bread crumbs
small amount of oil

Rinse chicken and pat dry. Beat the egg and place on a plate. Put the bread crumbs on another plate. Dip the chicken breasts in the egg, and then in the bread crumbs. Place in a pan with a small amount of oil. Fry the chicken on low until almost cooked through. Open the cherry preserves and pour over the chicken. Turn the heat up to medium, and cook until chicken is done and tender, and preserves heated through. Serve with white rice.

Lately I have been preparing the chicken in the egg and breadcrumbs, and then put them in the crock pot to cook. I pour the preserves over the chicken and cook on low for three hours, or until the chicken is tender. I serve with rice, the preserves make a nice topping for the rice. (I usually buy my cherry preserves at Trader Joe's. I think they taste like cherry pie filling. Though any preserves would work.) It's an easy recipe to prepare, especially in the crock pot, and we all enjoy it. I hope you will too! :)

I am wearing.....blue jean skirt, grey colored long sleeved top, light blue hoodie sweatshirt, tights.

I am going....I plan to stay close to home this week. We babysit Parker tomorrow and Thursday. Yesterday was Ric's birthday. We are taking him out to celebrate on Friday evening. (That's the only time that Michelle will be able to join us.)

I am reading....not reading any new books this week.

I am hearing.....William has the tv on, and is watching a fishing program. He is having his fishing boat repaired right now, and can't wait to get back on the water! :)

Around the house..... weekly housework and laundry. I'm decluttering some drawers in my bedroom. (They've really needed it!)

One of my favorite things.....watching favorite tv programs with Megan. We watched the current episode of Downton Abbey yesterday, as well as an episode of another favorite show we both like. Has anyone else been watching Downton Abbey?

A few plans for the rest of the week....

....taking care of Parker Wednesday and Thursday
....grocery shopping Friday afternoon
....celebrating Ric's birthday Friday night
....going out for coffee with my sister Saturday afternoon
....church on Sunday

A peek into my day....Parker and William's hat's were side by side on the counter. I thought they looked so cute! :)

Edited to add: I also want to mention that I've been having a difficult time leaving comments on some of the blogs I read, especially if there is Word Verification. It won't allow me to get past the word verification, or I can't get into the comment section at all. I find it frustrating!! I guess this is a Blogger problem, I'll have to check. Has anyone else had this problem? I just wanted you to know that I have been visiting your blogs, I'm just not able to always leave a comment. Hopefully this will be resolved soon.

To read more daybooks, please visit The Simple Woman's Daybook.

God's Blessing...

2012-01-22T08:52:00.000-08:00

Eleanor, by Frank W. Benson

Be assured that if God waits longer than you could wish; it is only to make the blessing all the more precious.

Andrew Murray

Image courtesy of Google Images

The Simple Woman's Daybook

2012-01-16T08:37:00.000-08:00

For today.....Monday, January 16, 2012

Outside my window....it is a cold, and sunny day outside today. The forecast for today is 50 degrees, with a temp right now 30 of degrees.

I am thinking.....we had a nice weekend. On Saturday I spent some time cleaning in the house, while William worked on cleaning the garage. The afternoon was quiet and relaxing. On Sunday there was a wonderful church service, and then a relaxed Sunday afternoon. That's my kind of weekend! :)

I am thinking.....this week will be a busy one because we are babysitting Parker today through Thursday. ♥

In the kitchen....we are going to have Cherry Chicken, rice and green salad for dinner.

I am wearing.....blue jean skirt, tan colored long sleeved top, tights.

I am going....I will be staying home this week until I go with my sister to Walmart on Friday morning. We will be buying some items for Mom and Dad. Afterward we plan to deliver their things to them, and then stay for a visit. It should be fun! :)

I am reading....reading another Murder, She Wrote mystery...You Bet Your Life,by Donald Bain.

I am hearing.....the house is quiet right now. William has taken my car in to be smogged, and a tune up. Michelle is at work this morning.

Around the house..... housework and laundry will be done through out the week, as I have time with Parker here.

One of my favorite things.....having a yummy dessert after dinner! We don't eat desserts very often, but we had cookies and ice cream last night. :)

A few plans for the rest of the week....

....taking care of Parker this week
....going to Walmart on Friday morning with my sister
....grocery shopping Friday afternoon
....church on Sunday

A peek into my day....this is our favorite gift from Christmas...a 2012 calendar full of sweet Parker photos! It's hanging in our kitchen by the table, so we can see it whenever we have a meal. ♥

To read more daybooks, please visit The Simple Woman's Daybook.

The Wicker Basket

2012-01-15T08:05:00.000-08:00

The story is told of an old man who lived on a farm in the mountains of eastern Kentucky with his young grandson.

Each morning, Grandpa was up early sitting at the kitchen table reading from his old worn-out Bible. His grandson who wanted to be just like him tried to imitate him in any way he could...

One day the grandson asked, 'Papa, I try to read the Bible just like you but I don't understand it, and what I do understand I forget as soon as I close the book. What good does reading the Bible do?'

The Grandfather quietly turned from putting coal in the stove and said, 'Take this old wicker coal basket down to the river and bring back a basket of water.'

The boy did as he was told, even though all the water leaked out before he could get back to the house.

The grandfather laughed and said, 'You will have to move a little faster next time,' and sent him back to the river with the basket to try again.

This time the boy ran faster, but again the old wicker basket was empty before he returned home.

Out of breath, he told his grandfather that it was 'impossible to carry water in a basket,' and he went to get a bucket instead.

The old man said, 'I don't want a bucket of water; I want a basket of water. You can do this. You're just not trying hard enough,' and he went out the door to watch the boy try again.

At this point, the boy knew it was impossible, but he wanted to show his grandfather that even if he ran as fast as he could, the water would leak out before he got far at all. The boy scooped the water and ran hard, but when he reached his grandfather the basket was again empty. Out of breath, he said, 'See Papa, it's useless!'

'So you think it is useless?' the old man said. 'Look at the basket.'

The boy looked at the basket and for the first time he realized that the basket looked different. Instead of a dirty old wicker coal basket, it was clean.

'Son, that's what happens when you read the Bible. You might not understand or remember everything, but when you read it, it will change you from the inside out.'

Moral of the wicker basket story: Take time to read a portion of God's word each day; it will affect you for good even if you don't retain a word. It will change you and heal you. It will make you a better man, woman, husband, wife, and friend.

Image courtesy of Google Images

In All Things

2012-01-12T10:39:00.000-08:00

Arrangement,by Morgan Weistling

'And whatever you do in word or deed--all in the name of the Lord Jesus.' 'Do' does not belong there. There is more than doing in life. Thinking, speaking, hoping, planning, dreaming--all are to be in the name of the Lord Jesus. His love and life are to color and shape our ambitions and accomplishments. In Him, as a plant in soil, in rain, and in sunshine, we are to live, growing up by Him and into Him. In His name we are to work, to play, to suffer, to rejoice, and at last, to go home. It is only another way of saying, 'For me, to live is Christ.'

~Maltbie Babcock, Thoughts for Everyday Living, 1901~

Image courtesy of Google Images

The Simple Woman's Daybook

2012-01-10T09:35:00.000-08:00

For today....Tuesday, January 10, 2012

Outside my window....it is sunny and cold outside today. The forecast for today is 59 degrees, with a temp right now 33 of degrees.

I am thinking.....that Megan and Parker came over for a visit yesterday afternoon. It was fun to have them here, though Parker would not go down for a nap! :( He did enjoy some time in his jumperoo... ♥♥

They are coming over again this afternoon. I thought I would invite them to stay for dinner since Ric has to work late tonight.

I am thankful....last week was a busy one, so I'm thankful this week is much quieter. I'm able to be home more this week, and that makes my heart happy. ♥

In the kitchen....I finally took the time this week to make a menu plan for the week. It always makes grocery shopping so much easier, as well as dinner preparation...so I don't know why I don't do this every week. I've gone ahead and planned out dinners for the next three weeks, so hopefully I'll keep this up!

I am wearing.....blue jean skirt, blue long sleeved shirt, light blue hoodie sweatshirt, tights.

I am going....nowhere until I go grocery shopping on Friday morning.

I am reading....not reading anything special this week.

I am hearing.....the house is quiet right now. William has gone on an errand, and Michelle is at work. I enjoy the house when it is still and quiet.

Around the house.....I've decided I really need to be more on a schedule for housekeeping. I've always thought that Flylady has a good system, so I'm slowly implementing some of her ideas into my housecleaning routine. I'm taking baby steps! :)

One of my favorite things.....enjoying some time alone at home.

A few plans for the rest of the week....

....housework and laundry done through out the week
....taking care of Parker on Thursday
....grocery shopping Friday morning
....church on Sunday

A peek into my day....I took this photo of D'artagnan the other night. He was all snuggled up in Michelle's bed. He looks so cozy and comfortable. :)

To read more daybooks, please visit The Simple Woman's Daybook.

Take Time...

2012-01-08T08:42:00.000-08:00

Barn Patrol, by Robert Duncan

Take time to notice all the usually unnoticed, simple things in life. Delight in the never ending hope that's available every day!

~Author Unknown~

Image courtesy of Google Images

New Week, New Year

2012-01-03T21:41:00.000-08:00

Hello! I hope that everyone has had a wonderful Christmas and New Year! The days since Christmas have been busy, and I haven't had much time to blog.

We had a lovely Christmas Day at my brother David's house. It was a small family gathering that was low key, and relaxing. William picked up his sweet mother that day and she spent the next few days with us. It was nice to have her visit! I enjoy her company. She has such a wonderful sense of humor, and is so young at heart! She celebrated her 93rd birthday on December 30th. I hope I'm doing as well when I'm her age.

Parker and Great Grandma Eva

Megan, Ric and Parker spent Christmas in Southern California with Ric's family. So we celebrated Christmas with them on December 28th. We had a lovely lunch, and then opened presents.

Parker opening presents with Grandpa. :)

Books from Aunt Michelle.

Waking up after a nap. ♥

William and I went away over night for New Year's Eve. Michelle asked if she could have a couple of friends over, so we decided to spend the night away from home. New Year's Eve day we headed out and drove to the Cabela's store outside of Reno, Nevada. William was in fishing heaven!! :) Afterwards, we drove to Grass Valley (located in our local foothills) to spend the night, and welcome in the New Year! :) We enjoyed our night away, and Michelle had fun with her friends!

I took down all the Christmas decorations yesterday. I'm always sad to put them away, but it's nice to have the house back in order again. Today I went to Megan's and helped her while she babysat a friend's baby. She is two weeks older than Parker, and is a little doll! I had a lot of fun helping Megan with both babies. We watched a couple of Jane Austen movies, and enjoyed hanging out together with the wee ones! :)

I hope everyone is enjoying this first week of 2012!!

~Welcoming A Brand New Year~

2011-12-30T20:55:00.000-08:00

HAVE A VERY HAPPY NEW YEAR!!

Instead of making a New Year's resolution
Consider committing to a Biblical solution.
Your promises are easily broken
Empty words, though earnestly spoken.
But God's Word transforms the soul
By His Holy Spirit making you whole.
As you spend time alone with Him
He will change you from within.

~by Mary Fairchild~

Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new.

~2 Corinthians 5:17~

Image courtesy of Google Images

~Have A Very Merry Christmas~

2011-12-22T07:04:00.000-08:00

Christmas is the celebration of the keeping of a promise. A saving promise. ~Michael Card~

HAVE A VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS...

FROM OUR HOME TO YOURS!!

Image courtesy of Google Images

Our Smallest Wishes

2011-12-20T12:50:00.000-08:00

God is not too great to be concerned about our smallest wishes.

~Basilea Schlink~

Image courtesy of Google Images

The Simple Woman's Daybook

2011-12-19T10:25:00.000-08:00

For today....Monday, December 19, 2011

Outside my window....the forecast for today is 57 degrees. The current temp is 39 degrees. The sky is grey and overcast, or as William said, 'the weather is foggy and icky today'.

I am thinking.....Megan and Ric's third wedding anniversary is on December 20th. They had originally wanted to go away overnight to celebrate, but decided they didn't want to be too far from Parker. They asked if William and I could keep him overnight, so they could celebrate at home. We will pick Parker up tomorrow morning, and he will spend the day and night with us. It will be the first time we've had him overnight. It should be fun, and interesting...we are not used to getting up at night with a baby. Though he does sleep through the night sometimes. I hope Megan and Ric will enjoy a lovely celebration. :)

I am thankful....for Christmas...the celebration of the birth of our Savior Jesus Christ. That is the 'true' reason of why we celebrate.

In the kitchen....William will be picking up his sweet mother for a visit on Christmas Day. She will be staying with us for four or five days. I spent some time yesterday planning out dinner menus for that week. Now I just need to write a grocery list for my shopping trip on Thursday.

I am wearing.....blue jeans, dark pink sweatshirt, black socks..

I am going....we are going to pick up Parker tomorrow morning at 9:00 am. I plan on going grocery shopping on Thursday morning.

I am reading...still reading the 'Murder, She Wrote' mystery books. I bought nine of them at a thrift store. I think I have three left to read. :)

I am hearing....William listening to the morning news on tv.

Around the house....the house needs to be cleaned badly! I had planned to do it on Saturday, but other things came up, and I wasn't able to. Thankfully laundry is caught up! I did finish wrapping our Christmas gifts, and they are now safely tucked under the tree awaiting Christmas morning.

One of my favorite things....watching Christmas movies with my sweetie! :)

A few plans for the rest of the week....

..housework on Monday

..taking care of Parker overnight on Tuesday

..grocery shopping Thursday morning

..church will be on Christmas Eve

..going to my brother David's house for dinner on Christmas Day.

From my picture journal....Megan gave this to us last week. The reindeer are made from Parker's footprints. Isn't it adorable? ♥♥

To read more daybooks, please visit The Simple Woman's Daybook.

A Christmas Prayer

2011-12-18T14:19:00.000-08:00

Kissing the Face of God, by Morgan Weistling

Loving Father, Help us remember the birth of Jesus, that we may share in the song of the angels, the gladness of the shepherds, and worship of the wise men.

Close the door of hate and open the door of love all over the world. Let kindness come with every gift and good desires with every greeting. Deliver us from evil by the blessing which Christ brings, and teach us to be merry with clear hearts.

May the Christmas morning make us happy to be thy children, and Christmas evening bring us to our beds with grateful thoughts, forgiving and forgiven, for Jesus' sake. Amen.

~Robert Louis Stevenson~

Image courtesy of Google Images

A Happy Family

2011-12-15T11:26:00.000-08:00

The Christmas Tree (1911), Albert Chevallier Taylor

The best of all gifts around any Christmas tree: the presence of a happy family all wrapped up in each other.

~Burton Hillis~

Image courtesy of Google Images

The Simple Woman's Daybook

2011-12-13T11:43:00.000-08:00

For today....Tuesday, December 13, 2011

Outside my window....a beautiful, sunny day. The temperature is currently 48 degrees, with an expected high of 58 today.

I am thinking....We are watching Parker everyday this week, so he is going to keep us busy! ♥

I am thankful....that we got together with my family on Sunday at my brother Steve's house. It was a really nice time. The meal was delicious, and it was so wonderful to see everyone and spend time visiting together!

In the kitchen....Italian Bean and Pasta Soup for dinner tonight. I can put it in the crock pot to cook, then it will be ready by the time Megan picks up Parker. This is going to be a late night for Ric, so I invited Megan to stay for dinner.

I am wearing.....a denim skirt, dark blue long sleeve top, and light blue hoodie sweatshirt.

I am going....I need to buy more stamps sometime this week so I can mail the rest of our Christmas cards.

I am reading....I am still reading through my 'Murder, She Wrote' books.

I am hearing....the television is on. Parker is napping right now. It has been almost two hours, so he will be waking up soon. We are listening for his wake up cry. He is going to be very hungry when he gets up. :)

Around the house....the house really needs to be cleaned, but I won't get to that until Saturday. Christmas presents need to be wrapped and put under the tree.

One of my favorite things.....spending time with my family. ♥

A few plans for the rest of the week....babysitting Parker, cleaning the house, laundry, church on Sunday.

From my picture journal....

To read more daybooks, please visit The Simple Woman's Daybook.

A Really Good Day

2011-12-10T22:19:00.000-08:00

Hello! I hope everyone has had a wonderful Saturday. We had a really good day today! William, Michelle and I got up at 5:00 am this morning to watch the lunar eclipse. We had a great view from our front yard, though the sky was a bit hazy. It was fun to watch! I was hoping to take a photo, but my camera was not strong enough. I got this photo from Google Images.

Afterwards, Michelle went back to bed for a couple of hours. Once she got up and ready, we went out to breakfast at IHOP, and then did a bit of Christmas shopping. It made for an early, but nice morning together! :)

Megan, Ric and Parker came over about 11:30 am. Ric helped William with a project, and afterwards went back home to work on a paper that was due for school. Megan and Parker stayed here to visit, so their house would be quiet in the afternoon for Ric to work.

Megan and Parker stayed here until early evening. (William had gone to church to help set up for a Christmas program, and Michelle was at work.) Megan fed Parker, and then put him down for a nap. While he was napping she fixed dinner for us...Orange Chicken and rice. I thought it was so sweet of her to do that! We also watched a Christmas movie, 'The Bishop's Wife' with Cary Grant, Loretta Young and David Niven. It is a black and white movie from 1947, and one I really enjoy! After the movie was over Megan and Parker went home.

We are going to my brother's house tomorrow for a Christmas get together. It will be an informal meal; they will be serving cioppino. (Cioppino is a stew of fish, shellfish, tomatoes, and seasonings. I didn't know this until last year when they hosted their first cioppino meal.) They also serve pasta and salad for those of us that don't eat the main course. :) We are going to have a cookie exchange, so I baked a batch of chocolate chip cookies this evening to take with us.

I thought I'd also share a few photos from last week...

The wild turkeys were back running around the neighborhood earlier this week. :) I was able to get a few photos of them. They are so interesting to watch.

A photo of Parker and Grandpa looking out the front window.

William was taking a nap on the floor, and D'artagnan snuggled up under his vest. :)

I want to thank you all for your sweet comments and thoughts concerning my shoulder. It is feeling a lot better, but is still a little sore. I'm sure it will be back to normal within a couple of days. :)

I hope you all enjoy a very blessed Sunday.

The Simple Woman's Daybook

2011-12-08T12:55:00.000-08:00

For today....Thursday, December 8, 2011

Outside my window....today is a day filled with sunshine, though it's cold. The current temperature is 45 degrees.

I am thinking....I've been sitting here with a heating pad on my shoulder. I pulled a muscle in my right shoulder a couple of days ago. I still don't know how I did it. I'm sure it will feel better in a couple of days, but it sure limits my ability to get things done.

I am thankful....to have a heating pad and Motrin to help me feel better. :)

In the kitchen....I'm going to fix burritos for dinner tonight for William and Michelle. I think I will fix myself a green salad.

I am wearing.....a long black skirt, light blue long sleeve top and black tights.

I am going....I am taking Mom to the lab tomorrow morning, so I'm hoping my shoulder will be feeling better, so it won't hurt when I drive.

I am reading....reading another one of my 'Murder, She Wrote' mysteries. I'm enjoying them a lot.

I am hearing....William and I are watching some programs I've recorded on tv.

Around the house....most of our Christmas decorations are now up. It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas around here! :)

One of my favorite things....enjoying the lights on the Christmas tree.

A few plans for the rest of the week....taking Mom to the lab on Friday. We are going to my brother's house on Sunday for a Christmas get together. I'm going to bake some chocolate chip cookies for a cookie exchange.

From my picture journal.........this year's Christmas tree.

To read more daybooks, please visit our hostess Peggy at The Simple Woman's Daybook.

Isaiah 41:10

2011-12-03T22:41:00.000-08:00

Garden of Grace, by Thomas Kinkade

Fear not, for I am with you; Be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, Yes, I will help you, I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.

~Isaiah 41:10~

Image courtesy of Google Images

The Simple Woman's Daybook

2011-11-30T09:50:00.000-08:00

For today...Wednesday, November 30, 2011

Outside my window...the last few days have been foggy, overcast and grey. But today is bright and sunny, with a bit of a breeze. The forecast for today is 62 degrees.

I am thinking....It's hard to believe that today is the last day of November, and the Christmas season is upon us. We don't have our decorations up yet, but plan to put them up this Friday evening. I love decorating for Christmas and can't wait to see them up! :)

I am thankful...for bright and sunny days!

In the kitchen...we had the last of the Thanksgiving leftovers a earlier this week. I'm not sure what I want to fix for dinner tonight...maybe spaghetti and a green salad.

I am wearing...a denim skirt, a slate blue long sleeved top, light blue hoodie sweatshirt.

I am going...Megan has today off of work, so we don't have Parker. I'm going to do some house work this morning. I'd also like to do some Christmas shopping this afternoon, and stop at Starbucks for a treat! :)

I'm taking Mom in for her regular lab work on Friday. I talked to her yesterday and she has a bad cold, so I don't know if she will feel up to going. I'll call her tomorrow and see how she is doing. I pray she feels better soon.

I am reading...reading another one of my 'Murder, She Wrote' mysteries.

I am hearing...the house is very quiet. Michelle is at work this morning, so it's just William and me. The tv is off, and William is reading a book.

Around the house...some house cleaning needs to be done this morning. I need to decide how where I'm going to put our Christmas decorations for this year.

One of my favorite things...putting up Christmas decorations! :)

A few plans for the rest of the week...Christmas shopping, taking Mom to the lab on Friday, church on Sunday.

From my picture journal.........it's the most wonderful time of the year!

To read more daybooks, please visit our hostess Peggy at The Simple Woman's Daybook.

Image courtesy of Google Images

A Busy Weekend....

2011-11-27T19:32:00.000-08:00

Thanksgiving weekend is almost over. We had a very nice Thanksgiving day! We had a full house, so it was a busy day. The meal turned out well, and everyone enjoyed visiting. The only problem was eating way too much food! Unfortunately I was busy, and forgot to take any photos! I feel bad not getting a photo of Parker's first Thanksgiving. :( I decided next year I will ask Michelle to take the photos so we'll be sure to have some.

Friday morning we took the tables and chairs we rented back to the rental place and drove over to Megan and Ric's. Ric's mother Ann, was leaving on Saturday morning for home. So we were able to have a nice visit with her before she left. She is a very sweet lady. It was good that she was able to spend a week visiting with Megan and Ric, and spend some time with Parker. :)

We babysat Parker on Saturday so Megan and Ric could have a 'date' day together! They went to a movie, and then went out to a late lunch. They had a good time out together, and we got to have a fun day with Parker!

We babysit Parker every day next week, so it will be a busy one! He turned six months old on Saturday, and has two teeth now. Yay!! I'm so glad those teeth have finally pushed through. He's been having such a painful time with them. He sure is a sweet little guy! (Yes, I am a biased Grandma!) :)

Parker after his bath.

We had so many leftovers after Thanksgiving we've been eating them every day since Thursday. I find that I'm tired of eating turkey and ham, so I fixed some Beef Stew for dinner! William has been really great about the leftovers, but we both enjoyed the stew tonight! :)

I hope you all enjoy a happy Monday!

Image courtesy of Google Images

Wishing You...

2011-11-23T14:26:00.000-08:00

A Very Happy and Blessed Thanksgiving!

Photo courtesy of Google Images

The Simple Woman's Daybook

2011-11-22T10:38:00.000-08:00

For today...Tuesday, November 22, 2011

Outside my window...the sun is shining brightly! The forecast is for 61 degrees today. It's a crisp, beautiful fall day.

I am thinking...of the things that need to be done by Thanksgiving Day. This week is busy, but I'm enjoying it. I usually get stressed before we have big family dinners, but I think I'm past that, and choosing to enjoy the preparations!

I am thankful...that our families will be with us on Thanksgiving. :)

In the kitchen...I'm just fixing simple meals for dinner this week.

I am wearing...a dark blue denim skirt, light blue long sleeved top, black tights.

I am going...we're going out to breakfast tomorrow morning with Megan and her family. Ric's mother, Ann is visiting them this week. (Ric parent's live in S. California.) So we wanted to have a quiet time to visit with her before everyone comes over on Thanksgiving.

I am reading...I bought several 'Murder, She Wrote' mysteries at the Goodwill last month and have been enjoying reading them. They are based on the characters from the TV series. They are pretty good mysteries, and actually well written.

I am hoping...we have nice weather on Thanksgiving, because right now there is a chance that it will rain.

I am hearing...the house is quiet right now. I'm eating my breakfast, and once I'm done will do some housecleaning. I'm also trying to decide how I want the tables set up for Thursday, and what tablecloths and centerpieces I will use.

Around the house...cleaning and baking getting ready for Thanksgiving. We'll be having around thirty family members here from my family, William's family, and Ric's mother. It should be a busy, and fun day!

One of my favorite things...enjoying the holidays with loved ones. We have a lot to be thankful for. :)

A few plans for the rest of the week...last minute shopping and baking for Thanksgiving. William is making some Christmas tree stands today and tomorrow for our church. The church is selling Christmas trees this year as a fundraiser for our children's ministry. And hopefully relaxing the day after Thanksgiving. :)

Here is picture for thought I am sharing....

To read more daybooks, please visit our hostess Peggy at The Simple Woman's Daybook.

Image courtesy of Google Images

Today Is Our Life

2011-11-17T12:58:00.000-08:00

Resting in the Garden, by Daniel Ridgway Knight

A inspiring quote to ponder...

We foolish mortals sometimes live through years of not realizing how short life is, and that TODAY is our life.

~Edith Schaeffer, The Hidden Art of Homemaking~

Image courtesy of Google Images

The Simple Woman's Daybook

2011-11-15T09:54:00.000-08:00

To read more Daybooks, please visit our hostess Peggy at The Simple Woman's Daybook.

For today....Tuesday, November 15, 2011

Outside my window.....a beautiful day filled with lots of sunshine. The forecast for today is 67 degrees. It's a lovely fall day. :)

I am thinking....starting to plan our Thanksgiving dinner. We are having part of my family and part of William's family here for dinner...so it will be a full house! Looking forward to having everyone here.

I am hearing.....the tv is on. I'm watching a recorded episode of 'Murder, She Wrote.'

I am wearing.....a denim skirt, a long sleeved dark blue top, and a light blue hoodie sweatshirt.

I am going.....William and I are going over to visit Megan and Parker this morning. We have to get our 'Parker time' in today, as Megan calls it. Even though we'll be babysitting him tomorrow night while his mommy and daddy go out to dinner. :) I'm thankful we live close enough to visit them when we get the chance.

From the kitchen....macaroni and cheese for dinner tonight.

One of my favorite things....a Pumpkin Spice Latte from Starbucks...it's one of my favorite fall drinks. :)

Around the house.....some cleaning in the kitchen, laundry, cleaning out some disorganized cupboards this afternoon. I also promised William I would bake some chocolate chip cookies today!

A few plans for the rest of the week.....

~babysitting Parker Wednesday evening
~Bible study Thursday morning
~dentist appointment Friday afternoon (six month check up)
~church on Sunday

From my picture journal.....Grandpa feeding Parker. He's loving his carrots! :)

The Goodness Of God

2011-11-12T23:18:00.000-08:00

All we are and all we have is by the love of God! The goodness of God is infinitely more wonderful than we will ever be able to comprehend.

~A.W. Tozer~

Autumn Harvest
Image courtesy of Google Images

~Veterans Day~

2011-11-11T10:15:00.000-08:00

Image courtesy of Google Images

The Simple Woman's Daybook

2011-11-08T12:26:00.000-08:00

For today....Tuesday, November 8, 2011

Outside my window.....today is a beautiful sunshiny fall day, with an expected high of is 62 degrees.

I am thinking....we are having a busy week babysitting Parker. He is eating more solid foods now and it is a lot of fun to feed him! He is loving eating carrots and squash (and rice cereal). :)

I am hearing.....the house is quiet right now. William has taken Parker out for a short walk. D'artagnan was not happy to be left behind!

I am wearing.....a long black skirt and a long sleeved slate blue top.

I am going.....to Bible study on Thursday morning. I missed last week because of my cold.

From the kitchen....spaghetti and green salad for dinner tonight.

One of my favorite things....playing with my grandson. ♥♥ I finally got a photo of Parker in the pumpkin hat his Auntie Michelle made him.

Around the house....we just had our carpet cleaned and it looks really nice! I really need to go through some of the cupboards soon and get organized! It seems to be a job that is ongoing...and I seem to be behind! :)

A few plans for the rest of the week.....babysitting, Bible study on Thursday, cleaning the house on Friday so the weekend is free for family time.

From my picture journal.....some of our fall decorations on top of the desk.

Please visit our hostess Peggy at The Simple Woman's Daybook to read more daybooks.

Wild Turkeys???

2011-11-05T13:31:00.000-07:00

Hello! I hope everyone is having a great Saturday! Ours has been pretty quiet so far, which is fine with me. I am trying to rest today, hoping to feel better and get over my cold. It's a good day to drink cups of very hot tea, and eat chicken noodle soup!

I wanted to share about the four wild turkeys that are roaming around our neighborhood. William noticed them yesterday afternoon. He saw them this morning in a neighbor's yard down the street from us. We walked down there to take a few photos of them. They didn't seem scared of us, and I was able to get pretty close to them because my camera doesn't have a good zoom on it. We don't know where they came from, or how long they will be hanging around. It's just odd to see them here, but interesting all the same.

Enjoy the rest of your weekend! :)

The Simple Woman's Daybook

2011-11-02T20:43:00.000-07:00

For today....Wednesday, November 2, 2011

Outside my window.....today was a beautiful fall day filled with sunshine. Now it is night time, and the evening temperature is 63 degrees.

I am thinking....we have been watching Parker this week...and it has been an adventure! He is just so sweet, but he is teething and having a hard time. William and I are tired at the end of the day, but we are thankful we are able to spend time with him. ♥♥

I am hearing.....the house is quiet right now. William is taking a nap, and Michelle is in her room studying.

I am wearing.....a denim skirt and a long sleeved brown top.

I am going.....to Megan and Ric's on Friday to babysit Parker for half a day. We didn't know we were watching Parker, and made an appointment to have our carpets cleaned. William will stay at home and wait for the carpet guy to come.

From the kitchen....we just finished dinner, so I have dishes soaking in the sink waiting for me!

One of my favorite things....enjoying a lovely fall day.

Around the house...we don't have Parker tomorrow, so I'm going to clean the house in the morning...and hopefully relax in the afternoon. I have a cold I'm trying to get over. :(

A few plans for the rest of the week.....house cleaning, shopping on Saturday, church on Sunday.

From my picture journal.....Michelle was crocheting a pumpkin hat for Parker, and was showing Megan how to do the crochet stitch.

Please visit our hostess Peggy at The Simple Woman's Daybook to read more daybooks.

Hello Again...

2011-10-26T13:07:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone! Wow, I've been gone a long time! I've enjoyed my blog break, but I am ready to be back. I hope everyone is doing well. I've really missed you all!

William and I were on Parker watch on Monday and Tuesday. :) He is getting to be so big! He is five months old today, can you believe it? Megan has taken him to the doctor for a check up today. I can't wait to hear the report on how he's doing. He is also teething now...poor little guy. He is such a little sweetheart. I took the photo below of him in his swing on Monday. ♥

♥ Today is Megan's 27th birthday!! She is such a loving mother to Parker, and a good wife to Ric. She is a wonderful daughter, and such blessing to all of us. Happy Birthday Meg!!

Life has been busy, with all the day to day things. We have also gone on a couple of family outings! I thought I would share a few photos from the outings we've enjoyed...

A few weeks ago Megan, Michelle and I took Parker to his first pumpkin patch. It was in a lovely country setting, with a petting zoo,a gift shop, and lots of pumpkins! I know Parker won't remember our outing...but we enjoyed being together as a family, and making some fun memories. :)

Parker and Megan

Michelle, Parker and me

A couple of weeks ago William, Michelle, Megan, Parker and I took a day trip to Apple Hill, which is located in the foothills. Apple Hill is a group of ranches that are open to the public selling apples and apple products including pies, pastries and cider. It was really nice to go and enjoy the beautiful countryside. We were able to bring home some delicious apples and pears, as well as eat some yummy pastries while we were there! It was a gorgeous fall day.

Megan and Parker

Michelle picking a pumpkin at the pumpkin patch

William and D'artagnan

Last week we watched (dog sat)D'artagnan's sister Miyah for the week because her family was out of town. D'artagnan loved having his sister around! They spent a lot of time chasing each other and playing together. She is such a sweet little dog, and was a good house guest. She went home on Monday, and D'artagnan sure misses her.

D'artagnan and Miyah

Miyah

William and I went to my parents this morning. I did their Walmart shopping for them over the weekend, and needed to take their stuff to them. William helped Dad with a few things around the house. Then we had a nice visit with them.

I will be visiting everyone's blogs in the next couple of days. I hope you are all having a great week so far!

A Blog Anniversary

2011-09-21T08:08:00.000-07:00

Sunflower Bouquet, by Barbara Mock

Today is my blog's THIRD anniversary!! It doesn't seem possible to me, because I never thought I would be blogging this long! I just wanted to say a big THANK YOU to all of you for reading my blog. And thank you for all of your sweet comments, and your kindness. It really means a lot!

I've met so many lovely ladies while blogging in the last three years, and I appreciate your friendships so much! I've enjoyed meeting all of you, and I enjoy visiting your blogs. Thank you all for making blogging such a pleasure!

I've decided to take a blog break for awhile. I'm not sure how long I'll be gone, but I will see you whenever I get back. ☺

Image courtesy of Google Images

The Simple Woman's Daybook

2011-09-18T21:20:00.000-07:00

For today....Sunday, September 18, 2011

Outside my window.....today was a beautiful day filled with lots of sunshine. Now it is night time, and the evening temperature is 78 degrees.

I am thinking....Today is my sweet William's birthday!! Megan, Ric and Parker came over after church this afternoon for a barbecue to celebrate. We enjoyed a wonderful time with them, with some yummy food, and hot fudge sundaes for dessert! ☺

I am hearing.....William is talking on the phone to his sister. She called to wish him a Happy Birthday!

I am wearing.....a long denim skirt and a short sleeved blue top.

I am going.....we are going to go down to William's mother's for a visit tomorrow morning. Megan and Parker are going down with us. Our niece Jamie is going to meet us there for a visit. It should be a nice day!

I am reading.....this week is going to be busy, so I won't get much reading done.

From the kitchen.....enjoying leftovers from the barbecue!

One of my favorite things....spending time with our family! ♥

Around the house...this afternoon was fun, but also busy...so I'm pretty tired tonight. I finally got all the dishes done and put away. Now I'm just relaxing, and watching an episode of 'Inspector Lewis' on Masterpiece Mystery. ☺ (Also one of my favorite things!)

A few plans for the rest of the week.....

~visiting William's mother on Monday
~babysitting Parker...or as William calls it 'Parker watch' on Tuesday and Wednesday
~Bible study Thursday morning
~shopping on Friday with William
~housework on Saturday
~church on Sunday.

From my picture journal.....Megan took the photo this afternoon. First family birthday celebration with Parker. ♥

Please visit our hostess Peggy at The Simple Woman's Daybook to read more daybooks.

The God Of Promise

2011-09-15T23:18:00.000-07:00

Green Lattice, by Charles Courtney Curran

God is the God of promise. He keeps His word, even when that seems impossible; even when the circumstances seem to point to the opposite.

~Colin Urquhart~

Image courtesy of Google Images

The Simple Woman's Daybook

2011-09-12T07:59:00.000-07:00

For today.....Monday, September 12, 2011

Outside my window.....the forecast right now is 63 degrees. The sky is cloudy, with the sun trying to break through. The forecast for today is 87 degrees.

I am thinking....we went to our niece Michelle's 16th birthday party and barbecue on Saturday. It was nice to be able to visit with family members that we don't see very often. Mom and Dad went with us, and had a nice time.

I am hearing......nothing at the moment . William is taking my Dad to a repair shop get the air conditioner in his car fixed this morning, and Michelle is at work. So I'm here by myself enjoying the quiet. ☺

I am wearing......a long black skirt, and a light blue top.

I am going....nowhere today. Megan's is bringing Parker over for me to watch for a couple of hours this afternoon. Her best friend Tabitha is visiting from out of state, and they plan to go out to lunch. She is bringing him over about one o'clock, and I can't wait to see him! ♥

I am reading....Heaven is for Real, by Todd Burpo

From the kitchen.....I haven't decided yet what I'm going to fix for dinner tonight. I had planned to fix one of Michelle's favorite meals tonight, but forgot she has a late class at school...so it will have to wait until tomorrow night. Not a clue right now on what to fix tonight....

One of my favorite things....I enjoy keeping a journal of our family's day to day life. I usually type something up (almost) everyday, print it out, and put it in a large binder. I like to go back and read about our daily activities. It's so easy to forget what we do from one week to the next. I don't know how long I'll continue to do this...this is the second year. Maybe one day our kids and grand kids will enjoy reading through the binders. ☺

Around the house...I plan on getting some housework done before Parker gets here today. I am also going to work on clearing out some of the cupboards in the kitchen this week.

A few plans for the rest of the week.....taking Mom and Dad to a doctor appointment on Tuesday, babysitting Parker on Wednesday (Megan is working that day), my sister is coming over for lunch on Thursday, a first birthday party for my niece Amber's baby Alex on Saturday, church on Sunday.

From my picture journal.....on the shelf in my kitchen.

Please visit our hostess Peggy at The Simple Woman's Daybook to read more daybooks.

Remembering September 11th

2011-09-11T08:47:00.000-07:00

May we never forget.

Image courtesy of Google Images

The Perfect Preparation

2011-09-07T17:39:00.000-07:00

Summer Morning, by Frank Desch

This is what the past is for! Every experience God gives us, every person He puts in our lives is the perfect preparation for the future that only He can see.

~Corrie Ten-Boom~

Image courtesy of Google Images.

The Simple Woman's Daybook

2011-09-05T08:31:00.000-07:00

For today.....Monday, September 5, 2011....Happy Labor Day!!

Outside my window.....the forecast for today is 92 degrees. The sun is shining brightly, and there is a soft breeze blowing. The temperature right now is 56 degrees.

I am thinking....We had a pretty quiet weekend, which was lovely. William and I went to the farmer's market on Saturday morning and bought some beautiful fruits and veggies...which we are enjoying very much! We also did some errands afterwards. It was fun spending the time together! Yesterday morning was church, and a wonderfully relaxed Sunday afternoon.

I am hearing......the television. William is watching the US Open. Draco is laying near me, and I hear his collar jingling whenever he shakes his head.

I am wearing......a long denim skirt, and a dark blue short sleeved top.

I am going....nowhere today because we will be babysitting Parker this afternoon. We didn't have any plans for Labor Day, so Megan asked if we would watch him. They plan to have a date afternoon. We enjoy Parker so much, we couldn't refuse. ♥

I am reading.....I'm reading The Acid Alkaline Diet, by Christopher Vasey, N.D.

From the kitchen.....I will be fixing turkey medallions, green beans, green and yellow zucchini squash for dinner (veggies from the farmer's market).

One of my favorite things....an afternoon nap. It's not something I do very often, but I was so tired yesterday afternoon that I fell asleep on the sofa for about 90 minutes. It was more difficult for me to fall asleep last night, but it was worth it! ☺

Around the house...I will be completing some housework this morning, and some laundry. I'm also determined to clean up the guest room this week. I really need to do it, and I've been putting it off. It's one of those jobs where I don't know where to start...so I don't start at all! ☺

A few plans for the rest of the week.....babysitting Parker this afternoon, visiting William's sweet mother on Tuesday, taking Mom to the lab Thursday morning, going to our niece Michelle's 16th birthday party on Saturday, church on Sunday.

From my picture journal.....I haven't been taking many photos lately, except of the sweet Parker boy. ♥

Please visit our hostess Peggy at The Simple Woman's Daybook to read more daybooks.

The Fairest Blossom

2011-08-31T22:29:00.000-07:00

Fresh from the Garden, by Albert Lynch

Gratitude is the fairest blossom which springs from the soul.

~Henry Ward Beecher~

Image courtesy of Google Images

The Simple Woman's Daybook

2011-08-29T10:41:00.000-07:00

For today.....Monday, August 29, 2011

Outside my window.....another beautiful, sunshiny Monday. The current temp is 63 degrees, and the forecast for today is 97 degrees.

I am thinking....Megan and Parker came over for dinner Friday night because Ric had to work. It was fun to have them over. Parker was so good...though after Megan fed him he didn't want to sleep even though we could see he was tired. Megan had accidentally locked her keys in her car, so she had to wait for Ric to get off work before they could go home. Finally she was able to get Parker to sleep...though he wasn't too happy about being woke up when it was time to go home.

I am hearing....I am watching an old movie on tv from 1947, The Ghost and Mrs Muir. I just put Parker down for his morning nap, so I have a few minutes to work on this post.

I am wearing......a long denim skirt, and a black short sleeve top.

I am going.....we are babysitting Parker every day this week (except Thursday) because Megan has gone back to work part time. William and I are taking him in for his well baby checkup tomorrow morning. I'm a little nervous because it's been so long since I've taken a baby in for a doctor's appointment. I know that everything will be fine.

I am reading.....I'm reading Simpler Living Compassionate Life, edited and compiled by Michael Schut

From the kitchen.....I will be fixing vegetable lasagna in the crock pot for dinner.

One of my favorite things....my morning cup of tea. I'm just now fixing it...a little bit late. I think I'm ready for it! :)

Around the house...I will be doing housework and laundry throughout the week as I can.

A few plans for the rest of the week.....babysitting Parker this week, church on Sunday

From my picture journal.....a photo of Parker and me taken last week.

Please visit our hostess Peggy at The Simple Woman's Daybook to read more daybooks.

Patiently Waiting...

2011-08-26T10:48:00.000-07:00

Wind From The Sea, by Edward Gordon

We may leave God or put Him on hold, but He is always there, patiently waiting for us...to turn back to Him.

~Emilie Barnes~

Image courtesy of Google Images

The Simple Woman's Daybook

2011-08-22T08:15:00.000-07:00

For today.....Monday, August 22, 2011

Outside my window.....a beautiful, sunshiny day. The current temp is 57 degrees, and the forecast for today is 92 degrees.

I am thinking.....we babysat Parker on Saturday. Megan and Ric had a 'date' afternoon. They went to a movie and a late lunch. It was nice for them to get out, and William and I enjoyed some fun time with Parker! ♥♥

I am hearing....the house is very quiet right now. I just finished fixing our morning tea. William is on the desktop computer, and I am on the laptop. Michelle is still sleeping. Usually William has the windows and doors open to let in the cool morning air, but he hasn't opened them yet this morning.

I am wearing......a long black skirt, and a turquoise colored short sleeve top.

I am going....nowhere until Wednesday morning when we take Indy to get his teeth cleaned. I also need to do some Walmart shopping for my parents.

I am reading.....still reading The Water Secret, by Howard Murad, MD. Last week was busy, and I didn't get much time to read.

From the kitchen.....we are having stir fry vegetables with turkey and rice for dinner.

One of my favorite things....a relaxing Sunday afternoon...like yesterday. ☺

Around the house.....I need to clean the guest room one day this week. It's long over due, and a job I will be glad to have finished. I am hoping that we will be able paint that room next month.

A few plans for the rest of the week.....staying pretty close to home this week.

~babysitting Parker all day Tuesday

~taking Indy to the vet on Wednesday morning, and Walmart shopping.
~breakfast with friends on Saturday morning

~church on Sunday

From my picture journal.....we went on an overnight trip to San Francisco a couple of weeks ago. We spent one day at the San Francisco Zoo. I love this photo of William and Michelle. ♥

Please visit our hostess Peggy at The Simple Woman's Daybook to read more daybooks.

Around The House...Random Things

2011-08-18T21:15:00.000-07:00

I bought this wall hanging in Solvang. It looks so pretty in the kitchen.

A close up of the design.

Today has been a fun day! I went to a baby shower held for a lady in my Bible study this morning. It was a lot of fun! Most of the ladies from Bible study were there, along with a few others. It was so good to see all of them! I didn’t realize how much I missed everyone this summer. We have two services at church now on Sunday mornings, so I don't get to see every one every Sunday. I did find out that Bible study will start again on September 16th, so I'm looking forward to that!

(Please click on photos to enlarge them.)

I don't know if I mentioned William's sister Jodi gave us a crib for Parker when we were in AZ. She had used it for her great-grandchildren and doesn't need it anymore. We put it together yesterday morning. It was a joint effort of Michelle, William and me. It was fun to do, knowing it was for Parker! I bought some sheets for it today, and they are being washed right now. I'm going to put them on the crib tonight so it will be ready for the next time Parker needs it! ☺ Plus I love the thought of using a crib that has some family history. (The crib we used for Megan and Michelle years ago had been previously used by several babies in the family.)

I love the Winnie the Pooh characters on it.

While I was at the baby shower this morning, William took my Mom to her eye exam. (Dad went along for the ride.) Thankfully her eyes are doing well. Then she went to the lab for some blood work. Afterwards, William called Megan and asked her to bring Parker over to our house so Mom and Dad could see them. I thought that was so sweet! William got a couple of nice photos of Mom and Dad with Parker. I missed their visit, but I’m glad they were able to see Megan and Michelle, as well as Parker. I know how much they love being with family!

Grandma Velma with Parker. (A little bit fuzzy.)

Grandpa Harold with Parker.

After Parker was born we realized that we needed to invest in a rocking chair! We had a rocking chair when our girls were babies, and enjoyed rocking them...to sleep, when they needed comfort. There is nothing like rocking a baby to sleep. ♥ So we bought a rocker/recliner chair. We really love it, and it is such a comfortable chair! We call it our 'Parker' chair. It's so fun to rock him to sleep when he is visiting. ☺

William and Parker in his chair. ♥

Megan and Parker will be coming over for dinner tomorrow night. We’ve decided to barbecue hamburgers and hot dogs. I’ll probably fix a fruit salad, Bush beans, and corn. That’s our standard barbecue meal, and we all love it! Plus it will fun to have Meg and Parker here for dinner! Ric has to work late with some teacher/parent meetings. School starts next Monday, so he is busy getting things ready. (Ric is a high school teacher. He teaches English.)

Parker turned twelve weeks old today! ♥♥

Megan posted this photo on Facebook today.

I snapped a cute photo of Draco tonight. He loves to sleep on our shoes when ever he finds them on the floor. He is such a cute kitty! ☺

I hope you all enjoy a wonderful weekend!

A Daily Miracle

2011-08-17T08:03:00.000-07:00

The First Bluebells, by Stephen Darbishire

Always new. Always exciting. Always full of promise. The mornings of our lives, each a personal daily miracle.

~Gloria Gaither~

Image courtesy of Google Images

The Simple Woman's Daybook

2011-08-15T07:59:00.000-07:00

For today.....Monday, August 15, 2011

Outside my window.....a beautiful, sunny day...with a current temp of 61 degrees. The forecast for today is for 92 degrees.

I am thinking.....we enjoyed Megan and Parker's company this weekend. ☺ (Ric is in graduate school right now and was working on two papers for school, so he needed some quiet time at home.) They came over on both Saturday and Sunday to spend part of the day with us. It was nice to have them over! And we sure enjoy playing with Parker! We are going to babysit him for a few hours this morning because Megan is starting back to work. She is going to be working part time as a nanny for two small children.

I am hearing....the house is pretty quiet....I just hear the fan going. I also hear the lawn mover. William is outside mowing the front yard.

I am wearing......a long black skirt with small white flowers, a black short sleeve top.

I am going....after Megan picks up Parker this afternoon, I am going shopping for baby things. I'm going to a baby shower on Thursday that is being held for a lady in my Bible study. I love baby showers, and this one should be fun! I've missed the ladies from Bible study this summer, and it will be nice to see them again!

I am reading.....The Water Secret, by Howard Murad, MD.

From the kitchen.....going to fix macaroni and cheese and a green salad for dinner tonight. I fix the mac and cheese like normal, but instead of putting it in the oven, I put it in the slow cooker on low for 2-2 1/2 hours. I comes out really good!

One of my favorite things....just being at home! We've been on the go for the last three weeks. I am thankful we were able to go on each trip, but I can't tell you how happy I am to be back home again. ☺

Around the house.....the house really needs to be cleaned in a bad way! Megan is dropping Parker off at 9:00 am this morning, so I'm going to try to get a little bit done before she comes. Then I will finish the rest of the cleaning throughout the week.

A few plans for the rest of the week.....

~babysitting Parker on Monday morning

~taking Mom and Dad to an appointment out of town on Tuesday

~ baby shower on Thursday morning
~housework done through the week
~church on Sunday

From my picture journal.....a photo of Parker taken a couple of weeks ago. I love the overalls! ♥♥

William and Parker 'playing' yesterday. Can you tell that D'artagnan was a bit jealous? ☺

Please visit our hostess Peggy at The Simple Woman's Daybook to read more daybooks.

The God Of Peace

2011-08-11T23:22:00.000-07:00

Let's Sail Away, by Robert Duncan

The God of peace gives perfect peace to those whose hearts are stayed upon Him.

~Charles H Spurgeon~

Image courtesy of Google Images

Some Time Away...To Arizona

2011-08-09T17:27:00.000-07:00

I can't believe that it has been so long since I've posted! The last week and a half has been very busy!

Last week found us in Arizona...where it was very hot! We had stopped for breakfast in Yuma, AZ, and it was 106 degrees at ten o'clock in the morning! Wow! I was so thankful for air conditioning in the restaurant, and in our truck. ☺

View across the street from Jodi's house...so beautiful!

William's brother Terry is moving to Arizona. He is going to live about an hour away from William's sister Jodi. We went to Arizona to help Terry move some of his things, and to spend some time visiting with Jodi. We are very thankful for her lovely hospitality!

We met Terry down in Southern California where he currently lives, and then followed him to Jodi's house the next day. So after driving for two full days, we were pretty tired when we finally got there. It was so good to see Jodi, and we had a nice visit with her and Terry. We were able to visit for two days. Terry drove back to California with us because he won't officially be moving until September.

♥ We were married on August 6, 1977 in a simple ceremony at a local park at 11:30 am in the morning. I was 22, and William turned 24 the next month. We were blessed with a beautiful, sunny day. My sister-in-law Peggy made my dress as a wedding gift, and William wore a casual suit. It was a lovely ceremony, and we were surrounded by all our loved ones and close friends. ♥

William and I celebrated our 34th wedding anniversary on August 6th!! ♥♥ Since we were already in Southern California we decided to go back to Solvang since we didn't get to see very much of it the first time around. It was a fun and enjoyable day, and made more special because we hadn't planned to go back so soon!! We found a great place to park, and then walked up and down all the streets looking in the shops we missed on our first trip. Plus the weather was so beautiful that day!

William in Solvang.

Instead of driving the rest of the way back home that day we drove for another three hours and spent the night at Harris Ranch Inn near Coalinga, CA. It is a lovely hotel with beautifully landscaped grounds. We enjoyed a nice, relaxing evening. There is also a restaurant there that serves delicious food!!

Harris Ranch Inn

We drove on home the next day. It was a wonderful trip, but we were very glad to be back home! ☺ The last couple of days we've been resting up, and trying to get back on our daily schedule. We have one more short trip planned, and that will be our last trip of the summer! I am thankful we are able to get away, but there definitely is no place like home!!

Home Sweet Home at the end of our trip! ☺

A Stop In Solvang

2011-07-31T17:19:00.000-07:00

On our drive home we stopped at the city of Solvang. We had visited there before, but that was when Megan was a baby...so it had been a few years! Solvang is known as the Danish Capital of America, and is celebrating it's 100th anniversary this year. Most of the city's buildings are built in Danish-style architecture, and there are flowers everywhere, which gives the city a quaint atmosphere.

(Please click on photos to enlarge.)

We had breakfast at Paula's Pancake House. It was a beautiful day, and we were able to sit outside on the patio. The restaurant was very busy, but we got seated fairly quickly. William ordered Danish pancakes and Danish sausage. I had a waffle and Danish sausage. The food was delicious!

After breakfast we walked around and visited some shops, and took some pictures. We didn't stay too long because we still had a long drive back home. Here are some sights around Solvang....

William bought me a one person tea set from Edelweiss. I've wanted one for a long time! I just love the hummingbirds and delicate flowers. ♥ The tea pot holds two and a half cups of tea, and I like that the teacup is so big. It holds a lot of tea! It's been a welcome addition to my morning routine! ☺

I had some Lady Grey tea this morning, though my very favorite is Earl Grey by Twinings Tea.

I hope we will be able to go back to Solvang again. We were pressed for time and weren't able to explore too much this time around. But it was a fun place to stop and visit. ☺

More Of Ventura...

2011-07-31T00:16:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was busy, so I wasn't able to get this post done...

One of the places we visited in Ventura was Mission San Buenaventura. The mission was founded in 1792 by Father Junípero Serra as part of the historical California Missions. The California Missions were started in 1769 by Father Serra at the direction King Charles III of Spain. There are twenty-one missions, and San Buenaventura was the ninth mission built. The church is still an active Roman Catholic Church of the Archdiocese of Los Angeles.

Some day I would like to take a tour of all the missions.

(Please click on the photos to enlarge.)

The altar inside the church.

Beautiful fountain in the courtyard.

Lady of Grace Shrine.

Figueroa Plaza is across the street from the mission. It has a lovely rose garden and two beautiful fountains. These photos don't do the plaza justice. It is a very pretty area.

The mission across the plaza.

The next evening William and I went across the harbor to Ventura Harbor Village. It is filled with many shops and restaurants. Unfortunately we got there late in the evening, and many of the shops were closed! But there is a nice walkway called the Promenade that gives you a great view of the harbor.

We stopped at Coastal Cone Ice Cream and bought some ice cream. I got a scoop of peppermint...my favorite kind! William got a scoop of fudge brownie. We both enjoyed it very much!! ☺

We walked across the street to the ocean and walked along the beach. It was a lovely evening, and the water was so beautiful and peaceful! There were a few people swimming, and just enjoying the water.

I thought the sun was so pretty shining on the water.

After we got back to the resort, I took this photo of the sun as it was going down. It was so gorgeous...a lovely end to a lovely evening. ♥

A sunset is heaven's gate ajar. ~Author Unknown~

Some Time Away...To Ventura

2011-07-29T18:33:00.000-07:00

The view of Ventura Harbor from our balcony.

We had the opportunity to get away for a few days last week with Megan, Ric, and Parker. They had time to get away for a week to Ventura in Southern California, and they asked us if we wanted to go with them! Of course, we said yes! (Unfortunately Michelle wasn't able to go with us due to work and school.) William and I had to come back a couple of days early for an appointment. Megan and her family drove back home today.

(Click on photos to enlarge.)

We were fortunate to have such a lovely view.

We stayed at Harbortown Point Marina Resort. It was a nice place right on the Ventura Harbor. We had a beautiful view of the harbor from our balcony. There was a small kitchen so we were able to eat almost all of our meals in, which was nice. William and I were responsible for fixing breakfasts and Megan and Ric fixed dinners. It was a nice and relaxing time away! William and I also babysat Parker a couple of different times so Megan and Ric could have some time out together. Parker is now two months old, and is becoming more animated in his actions. It is so much fun to spend time with him! ♥♥

Parker getting sleepy, but not wanting to give up! ;)

Enjoying play time with 'Gerald'. ☺

Megan and Ric kayaking (bottom of photo).

The kitchen

Dining Area

Living Area

I have some more to share, but will do so tomorrow...otherwise this post would be extremely long!! ☺

I hope you all are having a lovely evening!

Gratitude....

2011-07-21T15:29:00.000-07:00

California Morning, by Susan Rios

Gratitude unlocks the fullness of life. It turns what we have into enough, and more. It turns denial into acceptance, chaos to order, confusion to clarity. It can turn a meal into a feast, a house into a home, a stranger into a friend. Gratitude makes sense of our past, brings peace for today, and creates a vision for tomorrow.

~Melody Beattie~

I'm going to be taking a short blog break...will be back next week. See you then! ☺

Image courtesy of Google Images

Sweet Bundle Of Joy

2011-07-18T21:58:00.000-07:00

We have baby sat Parker twice over the last three days, and it has been such a joy to do so. We sure love that precious little guy! ♥♥

Children are a heritage from the LORD, offspring a reward from him.

~Psalm 127:3~

Trusting God

2011-07-16T16:11:00.000-07:00

Flowers of the Field, by Ernest Walbourne

If we just give God the little that we have, we can trust Him to make it go around.

~Gloria Gaither~

Image courtesy of Google Images

Happy Wednesday!

2011-07-13T08:36:00.000-07:00

Summertime, by Robert Duncan

May you be blessed by the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth.

~Psalm 115:15~

Good morning! I hope everyone is enjoying a lovely Wednesday so far. I got up much earlier this morning than I expected. I didn't sleep too well last night. Michelle had to be at work at 7:00 am, and D'artagnan was very upset when she left. He started whining very loudly, and that woke me up.

The weather outside is grey and overcast this morning, with a slight breeze. I don't know when the sun will be coming out. It almost looks like it could rain! I looked at the forecast for today, and it shows a high of 80 degrees, with sun and clouds. Strange weather for July!

This week has turned out to be a busy one! Monday we spent time over at Megan and Ric's. Ric was gone most of the day, so Megan asked if we would come over. So we got to have some special 'Parker' time. ♥♥ He was awake quite a bit, and had some 'play' time with us. He is starting to make more sounds, and is very active. He seems to have a lot to say to us! ☺ Megan is able to get things done around the house when we help out with Parker, so I'm going over again on Friday afternoon.

Yesterday I took Dad to a doctor appointment with his Cardiologist. (He has a pacemaker, and his doctor likes him to come in every six months.) His exam went well, so he goes back in another six months. Mom felt well enough to come along with us. Afterwards we stopped at a local restaurant for lunch. It is close to where William does his volunteer work on Tuesday. I went over to see if he could join us. He was able to, which made Mom and Dad happy! They hadn't seen him since he had come back from his trip, so we had a nice visit over lunch

Today I plan to clean the house, and go grocery shopping in the afternoon. We've been going to the farmer's market on Saturday morning to get most of our fruits and vegetables, but we are running low on bread, milk and other things.

We sold our 5th wheel on Monday. We decided to sell because we haven't had a chance to use it much the last couple of years. It just didn't seem right to have it, and not use it. Plus paying for storage fees every month. We are sad to see it go, but it is for the best. This is not the season of our life for traveling. If we go camping anytime in the future, we will be tent campers! We are thinking about possibly buying a used Class C vehicle in the next few years.

We are hoping to visit William's sweet mother tomorrow. We haven't visited her for awhile, so it will be good to see her. William is going to call her in a few minutes to make sure she will be at home tomorrow.

We are going to be babysitting Parker this coming Saturday. Ric is in a friend's wedding, so they will be dropping Parker off early in the afternoon. We are excited to take care of him! This will be the first time we will have him to ourselves. It should be a lot of fun! I'll try to remember to take some photos while he is here.

D'artagnan's 'friend' Tigger is visiting this morning. He is a cat that belongs to a neighbor down the street. He comes over several times a week to 'play' with D'artagnan. I wrote about their friendship in this post. Tigger comes over to our house so much that he thinks he lives here. The other night William had opened the back door to the patio room to let the cool air in. The screen door in the patio room was closed, but not locked. Indy has learned to open the screen door when it isn't locked, and he had gone outside. I walked into the kitchen and there was Tigger laying on the kitchen floor like he lived here! (He had snuck in through the screen door.) He looked very comfortable laying there, and wasn't too pleased when I put him outside! William and I had a good laugh over that! ☺

Well, I better get started on my day. I hope everyone enjoys a nice day!

Image courtesy of Google Images.

God's Love

2011-07-09T08:15:00.000-07:00

Morning Glory Cottage, by Thomas Kinkade

Just as there comes a warm sunbeam into every cottage window, so comes a love...born of God's care for every need.

~Nathaniel Hawthorne~

Image courtesy of Google Images

Some Family Time...

2011-07-07T19:25:00.000-07:00

I hope everyone is having a wonderful Thursday. We have have been having a very good week. We have spent most of this week close to home, which has been so nice!

Megan, Ric and Parker came over for a barbecue lunch on Tuesday afternoon. Parker was awake when they arrived, so we got to spend some 'awake' time with him. He is such a sweet little guy! I know, I'm biased by Grandma love! ♥

William was excited to see him because he hadn't seen him for almost two weeks. Parker fell asleep just before we started eating, and slept through the meal and our time visiting afterward. (Parker is now six weeks old.)

We enjoyed a nice visit, and got caught up on what's going on in Megan and Ric's lives. They asked if we could babysit in a couple of weeks because they are going to a wedding, and then to a movie. We are excited to start our 'babysitting duties'! ☺

Michelle had to leave early for school. She is taking an evening math class this summer. So between work and school, she is keeping very busy.

I was able to get a family photo of them before they went home. Parker woke up hungry, so they decided to go on home before Megan fed him. He wasn't very happy in this photo! Thankfully they only live a few minutes away!

Their dog Jack also came to visit. (Jack ate almost all of the food in the little dog dish next to him in two gulps! I don't think D'artagnan was very happy about that!) ☺

This morning William and I went out for breakfast. I had a coupon for Mimi's Cafe, and thought it would be fun to go out! We had a good time talking, and ate a yummy breakfast. (Mimi's is a favorite breakfast place.)

After breakfast, we decided we wanted to buy some fresh picked strawberries from the local roadside stand, but when we got there the place was closed. We were disappointed, because we were both looking forward to eating some strawberries! So we'll have to wait for the farmer's market on Saturday.

I thought I was going to take my parents to a doctor's appointment tomorrow, but my sister is able to help out. I'm glad she is able to take them, because it will give her extra time to spend with them. She isn't always available, but loves to help out when she can.

This weekend should be a quiet one since we don't have any special plans. I hope you all enjoy a lovely one!

The Simple Woman's Daybook

2011-07-04T09:08:00.000-07:00

For today.....Monday, July 4, 2011

Outside my window.....a beautiful, sunny day...with a temp now of 75 degrees. The forecast for today is 101 degrees. The next few days will be in the 100's...it seems that summer has finally arrived! It's hard to believe last week it was raining with temps in the 70's!

I am thinking.....William was gone for twelve days on a fly fishing trip to Yellowstone National Park. He got back late Saturday evening. He initially was supposed to go with a friend, but his friend had to cancel because his wife became ill. William was disappointed, but decided to go on his own. He had a good time, and caught a lot of fish! (He also took some nice photos. I'll share some of them soon.) I missed him so much, and I am thankful he is safely back home again! ☺

I am hearing.....the sound of the fan that is keeping me cool. Other than that, the house is quiet. Michelle is sleeping, and William is doing yard work in the front yard.

I am wearing......long blue denim skirt, and a short sleeve red tee shirt, bare feet.

I am going.....we are staying close to home today. We are going to have our family celebration tomorrow afternoon. Megan, Ric and Parker will be coming over for a barbecue.

I am reading.....I'm reading a Christian suspense novel called Formula for Danger, by Camy Tang.

From the kitchen.....I haven't had to cook much for the last couple of weeks, so I have to get back on track again. I wasn't exactly sure when William would be coming home, so I have to sit down and plan out the meals for this week.

One of my favorite things....spending time with family. Yesterday was my mother's 86th birthday!! We took her out for lunch on Friday afternoon to celebrate. My mother loves it when her family gets together, and so do I. ☺

Around the house.....I'm going to clean the house today. William needs to finishing unpacking from his trip and put his things away. He is doing yard work in the front this morning. This evening I'm going to boil potatoes and fix a potato salad for tomorrow's barbecue. I also want to try and get as much done ahead as I can for tomorrow.

A few plans for the rest of the week.....

~barbecue Tuesday afternoon
~Michelle and I are going to Target Tuesday morning
~taking Mom and Dad to a doctor appointment on Friday
~church on Sunday

From my picture journal.....Have a Happy Independence Day!!

Please visit our hostess Peggy at The Simple Woman's Daybook to read more daybook entries.

~A Happy 4th Of July~

2011-07-02T09:52:00.000-07:00

Wishing you all a safe and Happy 4th of July!!

Image courtesy of Google Images

A Funny For Cat Lovers...

2011-06-30T08:10:00.000-07:00

I came across this You Tube video the other day and thought it was so funny! The cat is caught barking like a dog until it sees the person with the camera... :)

A happy heart is good medicine and a cheerful mind works healing, but a broken spirit dries up the bones.

~Proverbs 17:22~

Daily Life...

2011-06-28T19:49:00.000-07:00

What I've been doing in my home today...

A little vacuuming.

A little mopping.

A little dusting.

A little helper. ☺

Today was my weekly cleaning day to keep our home fresh and neat! I always love when things are orderly once again, don't you?

I have been away much longer than I expected! Life has been busy off and on the last few weeks, but mostly I just couldn't think of anything to post! Does anyone else ever go through that? So I decided that it would be a good time to take a break from blogging.

A few things that have been going on...

We discovered a visitor in our backyard. William found this little turtle there a couple of weeks ago. We don't know where he came from. He was just there one day in the strawberries happily munching away. ☺

We have some neighbors across the street and down from us that own turtles. They said that a couple of them have disappeared, so it's possible that this little guy might be one of them. Though he would have had to cross the street to get into our yard!

Our Parker turned one month old on June 26. It's so hard to believe that he is one month old already! He is growing so, and gaining weight. Megan took some photos of him and put them on Facebook. They turned out so cute!

One month old!

I love this one of him and their dog Jack looking out the front window!

Big smiles from today! I love this photo!! ♥

I have one more Parker photo. I took this a couple of weeks ago when I took my parents to Megan and Ric's to meet Parker for the first time. I think this photo is so sweet! I just love their expressions as they are looking at him.

First look at Parker...love at first sight. ♥

Today has been a strange weather day! The day started out with sunshine and some clouds, but this afternoon it started to rain, and it's been raining ever since. This is very unusual for the end of June! Our forecast for today was supposed to be 71 degrees. I checked the forecasts for the rest of the week...it is supposed to get up to 101 degrees on Sunday! What a difference a few days make. Very strange weather...

I hope that you are all doing well, and enjoying a lovely evening!

The Happiest People

2011-06-08T20:17:00.000-07:00

Spring Flowers, by Deborah Chabrian

The happiest of people don't necessarily have the best of everything. They just make the most of everything they have.

~Author Unknown~

Image courtesy of Google Images

The Simple Woman's Daybook

2011-06-06T09:49:00.000-07:00

For today....Monday, June 6, 2011

Outside my window...today is a mixture of overcast skies, wind, and some sunshine. The forecast calls for rain again, with a high of 70 degrees. The rest of the week is supposed to be full of sunshine...so here's hoping! ☺

I am thinking....we had a nice, relaxing weekend. William's sister, her daughter and husband, and granddaughter came to visit on Saturday to meet Parker. They stayed for a couple of hours, and we had a nice visit. William's mom had been staying with us since Wednesday, and went back home with them.

I am thankful for....Ric's mom Ann. She's been staying with the kids since Parker's birth and helping out. I appreciate that she was able to come and be with them. She is going home today, and we will all miss her a lot!

From the kitchen....tonight's dinner is spaghetti and green salad.

I am wearing.....blue jeans, long sleeved black shirt, black hoodie sweatshirt.

I am going...shopping at Kohl's today with Michelle.

I am reading....not reading anything right now.

I am hoping....to take my parents to visit Parker tomorrow morning for the first time. ♥

I am hearing....we are watching the news on tv.

Around the house....will be catching up on housework later this week.

One of my favorite things....spending time with my extended family.

A few plans for the rest of the week....taking Mom to the lab tomorrow morning, the rest of the week will be close to home, church on Sunday.

Here is picture I am sharing....Parker with his cousin Brianna. She held Parker for quite awhile. She's had a lot of experience from holding her little sister. ☺

Please visit our hostess Peggy at The Simple Woman's Daybook to read more daybook entries.

His Giving Heart

2011-06-05T07:40:00.000-07:00

Free As A Bird, by Robert Duncan

God, with all His giving heart, can only give us Himself as we recognize the depth of the need in our lives.

~Eugenia Price~

Image courtesy of Google Images

Creating A Happy Home

2011-06-02T07:44:00.000-07:00

Home Sweet Home, by George Dunlap Leslie

Six things are requisite to create a happy home. Integrity must be the architect, and tidiness the upholsterer. It must be warmed by affection, and lightened with cheerfulness, and industry must be the ventilator, renewing the atmosphere and bringing in fresh salubrity day by day; while over all, as a protecting and glory, nothing will suffice except the blessings of God.

~Rev. Dr. Hamilton, 1878~

Image courtesy of Google Images

For Megan...

2011-06-01T10:57:00.000-07:00

Motherly Affection, by Georgios Iakovides

Dedicated to my beautiful daughter Megan, and her precious new son, Parker William...

A Newborn's Conversation with God

A baby asked God, "They tell me you are sending me to earth tomorrow, but how am I going to live there being so small and helpless?"

God said, "Your angel will be waiting for you and will take care of you."

The child further inquired, "But tell me, here in heaven I don't have to do anything but sing and smile to be happy."

God said, "Your angel will sing for you and will also smile for you. And you will feel your angel ' s love and be very happy."

Again the small child asked, "And how am I going to be able to understand when people talk to me if I don't know the language?"

God said, "Your angel will tell you the most beautiful and sweet words you will ever hear, and with much patience and care, your angel will teach you how to speak."

"And what am I going to do when I want to talk to you?"

God said, "Your angel will place your hands together and will teach you how to pray."

"Who will protect me?"

God said, "Your angel will defend you even if it means risking its life."

"But I will always be sad because I will not see you anymore."

God said, "Your angel will always talk to you about Me and will teach you the way to come back to Me, even though I will always be next to you."

At that moment there was much peace in Heaven, but voices from Earth could be heard and the child hurriedly asked, "God, if I am to leave now, please tell me my angel ' s name."

God said, You will simply call her, "Mommy ."

~Author Unknown~

Love you both, Mom, and Grandma ♥

Image courtesy of Google Images

The Simple Woman's Daybook

2011-05-31T07:02:00.000-07:00

For today.....Tuesday, May 31, 2011

Outside my window.....a gray, cloudy, and cold day. Rain (and sunshine) are in the forecast, with a high of 66 degrees expected today.

I am thinking.....Many of you know our grandson Parker was born last Thursday, so I have to admit....he is on my mind a lot! ♥ I guess you can tell I'm a first time Grandma. ☺ We've been visiting Megan and Ric everyday to spend time with Parker, and help if they need it. Ric's Mom is staying with them to help also. This is Ric's last week of work for the school year (he's a high school teacher). Once he is home full time for the summer, we probably won't be dropping by their house as often.

I am hearing.....William is watching the French Open on tv.

I am wearing......blue jeans, and long sleeved black shirt, black socks.

I am going.....I'm taking my mom to the lab this morning. She's been taking some antibiotics and needs to be checked to see how they are affecting her Coumadin level.

William's mom Eva and sister Mary went to Colorado last week to visit Mary's son and family. We will be picking them up from the airport tomorrow evening. Since they are getting in so late, Eva will be spending the night with us, and we will take her home on Thursday.

I am reading.....I'm not reading anything right now.

From the kitchen.....I'm going to fix burritos for William and Michelle tonight for dinner. I will probably have a green salad, since I can't eat burritos anymore.

One of my favorite things....one of my new favorite things is holding my grandson. ♥♥

Around the house.....the house is a bit messy because we've been busy the last few days. I plan to do my cleaning tomorrow. I feel much better when things are in order. ☺

A few plans for the rest of the week.....pick up William's Mom and sister from the airport Wednesday, take his Mom home on Thursday, church on Sunday.

From my picture journal.....a precious photo of Parker all snuggled in his bed at home.

Please visit Peggy at The Simple Woman's Daybook to read more daybooks.

~Memorial Day~

2011-05-30T08:24:00.000-07:00

Freedom is never more than one generation away from extinction. We didn’t pass it to our children in the bloodstream. It must be fought for, protected, and handed on for them to do the same, or one day we will spend our sunset years telling our children and our children’s children what it was once like in the United States where men were free.

~Ronald Reagan~

Remembering those who have given the ultimate sacrifice to keep our nation free. We are forever thankful for their service. God bless all those who serve our country willingly today.

Image courtesy of Google Images

A Family Celebration

2011-05-29T11:04:00.000-07:00

Yesterday Megan and Ric invited us to a 'celebration' meal at the hospital with them. The hospital provided a delicious meal of appetizers and dessert. We were also able to take some more family photos. We all wore our 'Parker' tee shirts. Since Megan is doing so well physically, they were discharged a day early (later that afternoon) and are now at home. Yay! We are so thankful Megan is doing so well. Thank you for all of your prayers!

(Click on photos to enlarge them.)

A pretty table.

The appetizers included mozzarella sticks, chicken tenders, vegetable egg rolls, and jalapeno poppers. There was also ranch and sweet and sour sauce for dipping. The dessert included chocolate and vanilla cupcakes with little heart shaped candies on top. We had sparkling cider to drink. It was a lovely meal, and we all enjoyed it.

The appetizers were yummy!

Susan, Michelle, Megan, Parker, William

Ric, Megan, Parker, Ann. I love Parker's little yawn. ☺

A proud Mommy.

Ric trying to calm Parker.

They were trying to get Parker to sleep because he needed a hearing test before they went home...he finally settled down, and Ric was able to take him for his test. It was a lovely afternoon. We enjoyed our family time together...celebrating the life of our newest family member! ♥

Just because he's so cute! ♥

♥ He's Here ♥

2011-05-26T19:38:00.000-07:00

Our precious little grandson is here...

♥ Parker William ♥

Born May 26, 2011

at 9:39 am

8 lbs 3 oz

20 ¾ inches long

After all our waiting, our sweet little grandson has arrived! ☺ It was an exciting morning as we all anticipated his arrival.

Megan and Ric just before they left for the hospital.

Ric had the idea yesterday morning to make these cute shirts for everybody to wear today...with Parker's name and date of birth, and how we are related to him. It helped them to keep their minds occupied yesterday. ☺

Michelle and William

We were able to visit Megan briefly before she went into surgery. We only had a few minutes, the nurses were having some problems with her IV line. Thankfully they had it worked out a few minutes later. Our sweet friend from church, Demaris, is an Obstetrics Nurse at the hospital. She came in today, on her day off, especially to be Megan's post-partum nurse. We were so thankful to have a friend, and familiar face to help care for her and Parker, and be a support to the family. We appreciate her kindness so much!

Ric ready to go into the operating room.

After about 25 minutes (but it seemed much longer), Ric wheeled Parker into the waiting room. We had our first peek at him. ☺

Definitely love at first sight. ♥

Such bright little eyes. I love the wrinkles on his forehead. ☺

Parker and his proud Daddy.

With Grandpa William and Grandma Susan

Parker and Grandpa William

Parker and Grandma Susan

With Grammy Ann and Grandma Susan

Ric's mom Ann has come up from Southern California to stay with the new parents for several days as they adjust to a new little one in the house. Ann and Ric's dad Lou are known as Grammy and Papa to their grandchildren. Parker is their ninth grandchild. They also have one great-grandchild.

Grammy Ann and Parker

Parker and Aunt Michelle

Once Megan came out of surgery, she was wheeled to her post-partum room. We weren't able to see her for awhile. As she was wheeled past the waiting room, we waved to her as she went by. ☺ After she was settled into her room, Ric and Parker joined her. We then left the hospital and went home.

We went back a couple of hours later, and were able to visit the three of them in their room. Megan came through the C-section fine, and is doing well...though she very tired after her eventful morning. I will try to get some photos of the new mommy and baby tomorrow.

We are so thankful for Parker's safe arrival, and that everything went well with Megan's surgery. Now we are praying for a smooth recovery. Than you again for your many prayers for today. They are appreciated so much. We thank the Lord for His many blessings...one of which is our new little grandson Parker. ♥

Around The House Again...

2011-05-24T17:10:00.000-07:00

It's been a busy day, and it's good to back home. I took Mom and Dad to a doctor's appointment this morning. The doctor went over the results of blood tests that they had a couple of weeks ago. They are both doing fine. It was cute, Dad was asking why he falls asleep so easily when he's sitting down watching tv. The doctor laughed and told him...he's 89! :) She said older men are more apt to do that than older women. I told Mom I do that now...so I can't imagine what I'll be like in another thirty years! Afterwards they treated me to lunch at Mimi's Cafe...a favorite place of all of us.

It's fun spending time with my parents. I love to hear them bicker back and forth...a habit they've picked over their years together. They both have a good sense of humor, especially Dad, and he always makes me laugh. Mom doesn't always appreciate his humor, but he keeps the rest of us laughing! After I dropped them off at home, I got my hair cut...which was long overdue! :)

I've been taking some photos around the house this week and thought I would share a few of them. (Please click on photos to enlarge them.)

Draco and Indy munching dinner

Michelle and Indy.

D'artagnan and Michelle

Our house guest from the weekend...Miyah. I had set her carrier by the front door on Sunday afternoon, and she climbed into it. She was ready to go home! She's very sweet, and was a good house guest. She and D'artagnan had a good time playing together. ♥

We bought two new lamps for the family room.

The other lamp is by the tv. We are very happy with them.

Michelle working on a puzzle in the dining room.

We bought Michelle two Star Wars puzzles for her birthday. She was working on the one with 500 pieces. We enjoy the Star Wars movies. When she was a little girl we used to watch a Star Wars movie whenever she was at home sick from school. Our favorite was 'Return of the Jedi.' We loved the cute little Ewoks of Endor.

Ewok

The finished puzzle. She plans to frame it.

Draco enjoying the sunshine.

I want to thank you all for the prayers for Megan, Ric and Parker. It means a lot, and we appreciate them so much! We are excited and anticipating Parker's birth in two more days. ♥ ♥

I hope everyone is having a wonderful Tuesday...and you enjoy the rest of the week!

God Is Changeless

2011-05-21T20:11:00.000-07:00

Everything around me may change, but our God is changeless!

~Carol Kent~

Image courtesy of Google Images

Catching Up...

2011-05-20T09:42:00.000-07:00

Down the Garden Path, by Robert Duncan

I hope you are having a wonderful Friday today! I've been a little out of touch this week. I haven't been visiting anyone due to a 'lovely' cold I caught. We had been having some rainy weather, and it was so cold! I am feeling much better today...and thankfully the weather is warming up again. It's good to see the sun shine! :) I will be catching up with all of you today.

Megan came by for a visit on Tuesday. It was nice to sit down and chat together. Megan is doing well, and anxious to have Parker arrive. She found out a couple of weeks ago that Parker is in a breech position. They were hoping he would turn, but that hasn't happened. So she has been scheduled for a C-section on May 26th. She and Ric were disappointed that they would not have Parker by natural birth, but know this is for the best. We are all looking forward to meeting him!

We are going to be dog-sitting this weekend. The family of Michelle's best friend are going away for the weekend, and we are going to take care of their dog Miyah for them. Miyah is D'artagnan's older sister. She was born from the first litter, and D'artagnan is from the second litter. They will be dropping her by around noon, and picking her up on Sunday. D'artagnan will enjoy having her here. They get along well, and love to play together!

I hope you all enjoy a wonderful weekend! :)

True Prayer

2011-05-15T08:35:00.000-07:00

Time for Tea, by Barbara Mock

Never think that God's delays are God's denials. True prayer always receives what it asks, or something better.

-Tryon Edwards~

Image courtesy of Google Images

The Father's Love

2011-05-10T15:48:00.000-07:00

Bob Apple, by Frederick Morgan

Nothing we can do will make the Father love us less; nothing we do can make Him love us more. He loves us unconditionally with an everlasting love. All He asks of us is that we respond to Him with the free will that He has given to us.

~Nancie Carmichael~

Image courtesy of Google Images

The Simple Woman's Daybook

2011-05-09T08:40:00.000-07:00

For today.....Monday, May 9, 2011

Outside my window.....another beautiful spring day...the forecast is expected to be 71 degrees today.

I am thinking.....I had an enjoyable Mother's Day. After wonderful church service in the morning, Megan and Ric dropped by in the afternoon for a visit. The rest of the day was very relaxing. :)

I am hearing....we are listening to morning news on tv.

I am wearing.....a blue denim skirt and a black short sleeve top.

I am going.....we are taking Mom out to lunch for Mother's Day today. I'm looking forward to spending some time with Mom and Dad, and thankful that Michelle and Megan are able to come with us.

I am reading.....not reading anything right now.

On my mind.....I'm taking Mom and Dad in for a full lab work up tomorrow morning. They have a doctor's appointment coming up in a couple weeks, and need to have it done before then.

From the kitchen.....William is going to barbecue tonight.

Around the house.....Michelle is sleeping right now. William is on the other computer playing games on Facebook. Drinking my morning tea before my day gets started. :)

One of my favorite things....a relaxing Sunday.

A few plans for the rest of the week.....lunch with Mom today, take Mom and Dad to the lab on Tuesday, Bible study on Thursday, church on Sunday, weekly house cleaning and laundry.

From my picture journal.....a cute photo of Draco. On a warm evening last week, he decided to lay on the tile floor in the kitchen to cool down.

Please visit Peggy at The Simple Woman's Daybook to read more daybooks.

Mother's Day Weekend

2011-05-07T14:35:00.000-07:00

The fruit at the farmer's market is always so colorful!

Happy Saturday to you! Today is such a lovely spring day. Beautiful sunshine, with blue skies, and a nice cool breeze. I went out this morning to the farmer's market and bought some lovely fruit and veggies. Then went to the grocery store to finish my shopping. I came home and fixed myself a strawberry banana smoothie, and a bowl of blueberries for a late breakfast. Yum!

Yesterday Megan and Michelle took me out to brunch for Mother's Day. Afterwards we walked to Old Navy and Bed, Bath and Beyond (in the same shopping center) to stretch our legs after our delicious meal. It was very nice to spend time with my girls, and I enjoyed the meal. I love our time together so much! :)

Michelle and I had a dentist appointment in the afternoon to have our teeth cleaned. That I didn't like so much! I have to go back in two weeks to have an old filling replaced. Michelle has to have some work done too. I had previously scheduled this appointment, but had to cancel it. I am not looking forward to it. Going to the dentist always fills me with dread. :(

William is not here today. He and several other men from our church left last night to do some repair work at a church camp up in the foothills. They will be home late tonight. I talked to him this morning and he said there was still some snow on the ground there. I'm glad he took some warm clothing with him!

We don't have plans for Mother's Day tomorrow, other than church in the morning. I think Megan and Ric plan to drop by in the afternoon. We are taking my mom out for lunch on Monday to celebrate Mother's Day. Both Megan and Michelle will be able to go too. Mom and Dad will be happy to see them.

I want to wish you all a very Happy Mother's Day, and hope you enjoy a lovely day with your families. :)

Mother's Day image courtesy of Google Images

God's Plan For Marriage

2011-05-05T19:56:00.000-07:00

I read The Marriage Altar, by J R Miller online awhile back, and I was struck by what he had to say. His words never fail to touch my heart...

Yet God’s plan for every marriage is happiness. Home is meant to be a miniature of heaven, a fragment of the celestial blessedness let down into this world. It is meant to be a little sanctuary, into which husband and wife may flee from earth’s storms and dangers, where in love’s shelter, their hearts fed with affection’s daily bread, they may dwell in quiet peace. It is meant to be a conservatory in which, covered from the frosts of the world and shielded from its cold and tempests, two lives may grow together into richest beauty, realizing their sweetest dreams of happiness, blending in whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are pure, and attaining the finest possibilities of character. A true home is a little nook in the very bosom of God, where faithful souls are held close to the Father heart, and carried safely, amid dangers and sorrows, to the home above.

Always it must be remembered that the great master secret of all deepest, holiest wedded happiness is Christ. There may be a kind of happiness with out Christ; but there can be no full, blessed, unbroken joy, if he be left out. Christless wedded happiness is but a rootless flower, which will fade in the hot sun; but when hearts are one in Christ, it is a threefold cord that binds them together, and their joy is fadeless.

~The Marriage Altar, by J R Miller, 1898~

The above photo is of my maternal grandparents
Edna and Stanley on their wedding day, August 27, 1918

The Simple Woman's Daybook

2011-05-03T09:29:00.000-07:00

For today....Tuesday, May 3, 2011

Outside my window....a beautiful, sunny spring day....lovely blue skies, with a high of 82 degrees expected today.

I am thinking......Megan is on maternity leave now, so I visited her yesterday. I checked out the nursery while I was there. It's so cute...and all ready for Parker's arrival. We had a good time visiting, and watching a movie together. Afterward we picked up Michelle, and I treated them to lunch at Red Robin.

I am hearing....the house is quiet...and so peaceful! :)

I am wearing....blue jeans, black short sleeved top, black socks.

I am going.....I'm cleaning the house this morning, and then Michelle and I are going Target shopping after lunch. William is on jury duty this week.

I am reading......Somewhere to Belong, by Judith Miller

On my mind....I had a nice blog break, but am glad to be back. I will be visiting, and catching up on every one's blogs in the next couple of days.

From the kitchen....I've asked William and Michelle if they would each fix dinner one evening a week. I thought it would be a good idea to share cooking duties. William has always been a good cook, and it will give Michelle some more cooking experience. So, we'll see how it goes...

Around the house....house cleaning and laundry this morning. I also need to write a list of what I will need to buy at Target.

One of my favorite things....spending time with my girls. :)

A few plans for the rest of the week....ladies Bible study on Thursday, lunch with Megan on Friday, Mother's Day on Sunday.

From my picture journal....a beautiful bouquet of roses my father gave me from his garden.

Please visit Peggy at The Simple Woman's Daybook to read more daybooks.

At Home

2011-04-20T15:54:00.000-07:00

Hometown Pride, by Thomas Kinkade

"Don't you love that phrase 'at home'?

To me it says so much about being cozy in my own nest, about being where I belong, about tending to the most important parts of my life. Being at home means savoring that sense of safety and retreat, even when I'm hard at work. The world may be whizzing by outside, but here I am safe, tranquil, peaceful, productive.

At home."

~Home Warming, by Emilie Barnes~

I've decided to take a break for little while to enjoy my time at home...see you when I get back. :)

Have a blessed Easter. He is risen!

Image courtesy of Google Images

A Yummy Dinner

2011-04-19T11:07:00.000-07:00

I fixed Vegetable Lasagna for dinner last night. It's been awhile since I had fixed it...but it came out pretty good. We enjoyed it, so I thought I would share the recipe.

I forgot to take a before photo. Yummy left overs for today. :)

I don't remember where I got the recipe, but it's easy to prepare. Prep time is about 20-30 minutes. Cooking time is an hour.

Vegetable Lasagna

2 medium carrots, chopped
1 medium zucchini, chopped
1 medium summer squash, chopped
1 medium onion, chopped
1/2 cup celery, sliced
1/2 cup red pepper, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp salt
2 tsp oil
1 can (26.5 oz) spaghetti sauce
8 lasagna noodles, cooked and drained
3-4 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

Cook lasagna noodles according to package directions. In a large skillet, stir fry all vegetables, garlic, and salt in oil until crisp tender. Grease a 13x9" baking dish. Spread 3/4 cup of spaghetti sauce on bottom of pan. Arrange four lasagna noodles over sauce, over lapping as needed. Layer with half of vegetables, spaghetti sauce and mozzarella cheese. Repeat layers. Cover and bake at 350 degrees for 60-65 minutes or until bubbly. Let stand for 10 minutes before serving.

I fixed our lasagna last night in a smaller baking dish, and also added a half pound of cooked hamburger because I had some on hand. I have also added more sauce when I used the larger baking dish because William likes it with more sauce. You can add whatever vegetables your family enjoys.

Around The House...

2011-04-18T13:52:00.000-07:00

I hope everyone had a lovely weekend! We had a relaxed weekend, and just enjoyed being at home. After a busy week, it was very refreshing. This week will not be as busy, and I will enjoy working at home.

Saturday William and I went to the farmer's market in the morning, and bought lots of salad fixings and beautiful veggies. I remember I once told Michelle that I thought vegetables were so pretty because they are so bright and colorful! She looked at me like I was very weird. :) (Maybe I am.) Then we went to Orchard Supply Hardware and bought some flowers for our planter in the front yard. William is reorganizing it, and it's going to look really nice when he's done. I'll take some photos when he's completed the work.

We've just got back from shopping at Costco. I'm always glad to have that shopping done. I'll put the supplies away tomorrow. We have a big storage cupboard in the garage, and I want to rearrange it before I put things away. It's been needing it for some time, but it's one of the things I seem to put off.

I took a few photos around the house, and thought I would share a few of them...

Draco and D'artagnan watching out the front window.

Indy hiding in the grass.

Last night Michelle and I made some Rocky Road Fudge together. We've been meaning to make some since Christmas, but hadn't found the time. (Or remembered to buy the ingredients!) :) She started it while I finished up dinner dishes. (Actually she did most of the work.)

I realized afterwards that we put way too many marshmallows into the fudge. (I adjusted the recipe on my blog.)

But even with all the marshmallows, the fudge still tastes yummy!

The finished product

I love it when we do things like that together ...it makes for some fun memories. :)

Our neighbors brought a bag of these over to us. I don't know if they are tangerines or not, but they sure are delicious!

D'artagnan wasn't feeling very well a few days ago. Michelle was at work that night, so he crawled onto William's chest and fell asleep for a long time. You can just see his face peeking out on the other side of William. Something had upset his tummy, and he wanted to be comforted. Thankfully he was feeling better by the next day!

I hope everyone has a wonderful Monday, and enjoys the rest of the week!

The Little Things

2011-04-16T08:28:00.000-07:00

A Morning Hug, by Robert Duncan

It is the little things that make up the richest part of the tapestry of our lives.

~Author Unknown~

Image courtesy of Google Images

Counting Blessings

2011-04-12T17:36:00.000-07:00

Roses, by George Dunlop Leslie

Be on the lookout for mercies. The more we look for them, the more of them will we see. Blessings brighten when we count them. Out of the determination of the heart the eyes see. If you want to be gloomy, there's gloom enough to keep you glum; if you want to be glad, there's gleam enough to keep you glad. Better lose count in enumerating your blessings than lose your blessings in telling over your troubles. Be thankful unto Him, and bless His Name.

~Maltbie D Babcock~

Image courtesy of Google Images

The Simple Woman's Daybook

2011-04-11T08:18:00.000-07:00

For Today....Monday, April 11, 2011

Outside my window....there is a sunny day, with some clouds. The current temp is 46 degrees.

I am thinking....I'm going to be visiting Mom today. William is taking Dad to a lab appointment this morning. I'm going to stay with Mom while they are gone. It's will be a nice time for us to visit. Then I take Mom to the lab on Thursday morning. (It's too bad they go to different labs, otherwise we could take them at the same time.)

I am thankful for....spending time with my parents. We always enjoy any time we are with them!

I am wearing....a khaki skirt, long sleeved black top, black tights.

I am going....to have a full week.

I am reading....an Elizabeth George murder mystery.

On my mind....We had Megan and Ric over for dinner Saturday night. We enjoyed our family time together! The baby is foremost on their minds, so it was fun to talk about baby subjects. We are all looking forward to Parker's arrival next month. :)

I am praying....my sister-in-law's oldest sister passed away unexpectedly last week. I'm praying God will give her mother, and their family peace and comfort in their sorrow.

From the kitchen....a simple dinner of chicken and rice soup, and crescent rolls. I want to start making a weekly menu plan again. For some reason I've stopped doing that, and have been struggling with what to fix for dinner most nights.

Around the house....the house is quiet right now. William is fixing his oatmeal breakfast. Michelle is sleeping. The house is also clean. I did all my house cleaning on Saturday. It's lovely to start the week with a tidy house. :)

One of my favorite things....time with family!

A few plans for the rest of the week....lab appointments, family visits, memorial service, Costco shopping, church on Sunday.

From my picture journal....my sweet William working in the front yard. He was fixing our front steps. :)

To read more daybooks, please visit The Simple Woman's Daybook.

How He Loves Us

2011-04-10T09:04:00.000-07:00

Blue skies with white clouds on summer days. A myriad of stars on clear moonlit nights. Tulips and roses and violets and dandelions and daisies. Bluebirds and laughter and sunshine and Easter. See how much He loves us!

~Alice Chapin~

Image courtesy of Google Images

A Special Afternoon...

2011-04-07T18:05:00.000-07:00

Hello to everyone. I haven't been online much the last few days. I just haven't felt much like blogging. I've been feeling pretty tired since we had Megan's baby shower on Saturday. It turned out really nice, and I think everyone had a good time.

The shower was for family, so several family members came that we don't see very often. Some of them drove a distance to be with us. It was so good to see everyone, and we appreciated them sharing this special afternoon with us. Michelle was my co-host, and she was a BIG help to me!!

I thought I would share some of the photos from the party (click on photos to enlarge).

Megan wanted a jungle theme for the shower, so that's how I decorated...with jungle stuffed animals, confetti, and receiving blankets to match. :)

Shower favors

The favor bags were filled with Hershey Kisses. The back side of the label read

'Megan's Baby Shower, April 2, 2011'

Napkins and Plates

Gift table

I wanted to surprise Megan with some of the decorations. I'm not normally a person who does crafts. Though while researching online about baby showers, I came across diaper cakes, diaper wreaths, and baby sock roses. I read blogs, and watched videos on you tube on how to make them. I think Megan was surprised! :)

Diaper Cake

Musical giraffe on top of the diaper cake. I thought he was so cute!

Diaper wreath

Baby sock rose bouquet on top of the food table.

Close up of baby sock roses.

I forgot to get a photo of the food table once all the food was ready. I served a strawberry/blueberry fruit salad, pasta salad, pigs in blankets (little beef sausages wrapped in crescent rolls), grapes, a veggie tray (though I forgot to put out the dip!), sweet and dill pickles, and olives.

Beverage table, and some munchies.

The beverages were simple. Lemonade, raspberry lemonade, iced tea and bottled water were served.

The cake. Our grandson's name is going to be Parker William. :)

Opening gifts

I wish I would have thought to get a photo taken of Megan, Michelle and me, but I didn't! :(

Precious baby clothes.

Sweet shoes :)

A blanket Michelle made (it wasn't finished in this photo).

The afternoon was a lot of fun, and Megan received many wonderful outfits, and things for Parker. It was lovely to get together with the family to honor Megan, and celebrate this very special time!

D'artagnan was exhausted by all the activity! :)

Your Words

2011-03-29T22:15:00.000-07:00

Sun and Moon Flowers, by George Dunlop Leslie

Let your words be the genuine picture of your heart.

~John Wesley~

Image courtesy of Google Images

The Simple Woman's Daybook

2011-03-28T09:40:00.000-07:00

For Today….Monday, March 28, 2011

Outside my window....there is sunshine outside the window this morning! It is currently 47 degrees. The forecast is for sunshine every day this week. Yay!! After so much rain the last few weeks, it is nice to see the sun!

I am thinking....today is Dad's 89th birthday! William and I are taking him and Mom out to lunch for his birthday one day this week to celebrate. I am so thankful that we can celebrate with him!

I am thankful for....the sun shining!

I am wearing....a long black skirt, dark blue top, black tights, and a light jacket. (It's cold in the house.)

I am going....nowhere today... I'm hoping to get some more spring cleaning completed.

I am reading....Home Warming, by Emilie Barnes.

On my mind....Michelle and I are giving Megan a baby shower this Saturday afternoon (April 2nd). So that has been on my mind a lot lately. It's one of the motivations for spring cleaning. :) I am looking forward to it, and am a wee bit nervous. I'm also praying for sunny weather, and safe travels for family members coming a long distance. This is a family shower, so family members we don't see very often are coming. It will be wonderful time to get together...to honor Megan in this way, and to make some fun family memories!

I am hoping...to get the house cleaned, and everything ready by the shower...without going crazy! :p

From the kitchen.....I really haven't decided what to fix tonight????

Around the house....it's nice and quiet...Michelle is sleeping, and William is working on a project in the front yard.

One of my favorite things....green smoothies for my breakfast! Very yummy!!

A few plans for the rest of the week....

~Mom and Dad to doctor appointment Tuesday
~Dad and Mom out to lunch
~grocery shopping
~house cleaning/spring cleaning
~ladies Bible study Thursday morning
~Megan's baby shower Saturday afternoon
~church on Sunday

From my picture journal....my lilacs are starting to bloom. :)

To read more daybooks, please visit The Simple Woman's Daybook.

Of Value To God

2011-03-26T12:56:00.000-07:00

I used these drawings because they are so beautiful, and comforting to me...

We are of such value to God that He came to live among us and to guide us home. He will go to any length to seek us, even to being lifted high upon the cross to draw us back to himself. We can only respond by loving God for His love.

~Catherine of Siena~

Drawings by Jean Keaton
Courtesy of Google Images

A True Home

2011-03-23T14:09:00.000-07:00

If we would have a true home,
we must guard well our thoughts and actions.
A single bitter word
may disquiet the home for a whole day;
but, like unexpected flowers
which spring up along our path full of freshness,
fragrance, and beauty,
so do kind words and gentle acts and sweet disposition
make glad the home
where peace and blessing dwell

No matter how humble the abode,
if it be thus garnished with grace
and sweetened by kindness and smiles,
the heart will turn lovingly towards it
from all the tumults of the world,

and home,
“be it ever so humble,”
will be the dearest spot under the sun.

-The Golden Gems of Life,By Smith C. Ferguson~

Image courtesy of Google Images

The Simple Woman's Daybook

2011-03-21T14:46:00.000-07:00

For Today….Monday, March 21, 2011

Outside my window....a cold, windy and cloudy day today. The sun has been shining part of the time, but it has also been sprinkling some too. The current temperature is 54 degrees. Rain is forecast for the rest of this week.

I am thinking....William and I went to over to Megan and Ric's yesterday afternoon to help Megan with a project in the nursery. It is slowly coming together, and looks very cute! We enjoy helping to get things ready for our grandson. :)

I am thankful for...the start of a brand new week!

I am wearing....a long blue jean skirt, black long sleeved shirt, black tights.

I am going....I went shopping with Michelle today, we had several errands to run.

I am reading....my Mom has given me several Better Homes and Gardens magazines that I have been reading.

I am hoping...to eat lunch soon! :)

On my mind....Mom and Dad took my sister Darlene and me (and our families) out for lunch last Friday to celebrate our birthdays. We went to a Italian restaurant not far from where my parents live. The food was very good! Afterwards we went back to my parents house to visit for awhile. It was a lovely afternoon spent with family.

From the kitchen....just simple meals this week.

Around the house....Michelle and I just got home from our errands. I need to put things away after I have my lunch. William and Michelle left to take D'artagnan on a walk, so the house is nice and quiet right now! William has been cleaning out 'his' room (used to be Michelle's bedroom) this morning. It's a room where he can put all his camping and fishing stuff, and hopefully tie flies when he gets it set up. I told him it can be his den.

One of my favorite things....spending time with my sister. She is coming over for lunch tomorrow, so we will have time to chat and catch up.

A few plans for the rest of the week....

~errands with Michelle today
~lunch with my sister Tuesday
~grocery shopping
~house cleaning
~ladies Bible study Thursday morning
~church on Sunday

From my picture journal....thankful Spring is here...even if the weather isn't quite Spring-like.

To read more daybooks, please visit The Simple Woman's Daybook.

Image courtesy of Google Images.

A Spring Welcome

2011-03-20T00:38:00.000-07:00

Our weather here is cold, windy and rainy today. So I wanted to welcome Spring with some beautiful flowers...

Bouquet of Spring Flowers 1866, by Pierre-Auguste Renoir

It's spring fever. That is what the name of it is. And when you've got it, you want - oh, you don't quite know what it is you do want, but it just fairly makes your heart ache, you want it so!

~Mark Twain~

Spring Flowers, by Norman Rockwell

Science has never drummed up quite as effective a tranquilizing agent as a sunny spring day.

~W. Earl Hall~

Spring Flowers, by Arthur Hacker

The seasons are what a symphony ought to be: four perfect movements in harmony with each other.

~Arthur Rubenstein~

And wish my sister Darlene a very Happy Birthday!

Images courtesy of Google Images

True Silence

2011-03-16T13:33:00.000-07:00

True silence is rest for the mind. It is to the spirit what sleep is to the body...nourishment and refreshment.

~William Penn~

Photo of Mc Cloud River, Northern CA.