LAURIE ` continued prayers for DS2; gee, in the old days, they would go in and pull that sucker out, but nowasdays, they try to save them all with root canals. Poor fella, is probably suffering a lot ...

We are having more very cold temps; dropped to -20C today and we are trying to stay warm, but GOD sent along some sunshine to warm us up a bit today: I think He was feeling a bit sorry for us up here.

GARY ~ tell your nephew that most places have machines to move the snow; but maybe they have to do some shovelling if the downfall is sudden and large. And, someone has to clear the doorways and paths ...

OH, BTW ~ I heard from NUMPSTER today; they went to NITA's funeral on Saturday; had a busy three days with all that, and they had to arrange the music for the funeral and the pics at the family gathering for everyone too. Hope they get some rest time now; as her DH is trying to fight off a bad flu bug too.

GINNY ~ so far here, we have had only CHICKADEES (faithful and regular); and one little grey one that is a bit shy, but sticks around awhile (can't tell what kind it is yet though). I have seen some STARLINGS on the lawn before, but they haven't noticed the feeders yet, but if they do, they won't leave; and they are full of antics. I really like the woodpeckers too, but haven't seen one here yet, but we just put the stuff up this week.

Well, gotta get to bed as it's very late: take good care and prayers going up for all ... ROSEBUD

Laurie-prayers continue for your DS2. It's hard to pay for any dental work now unless you have insurance for it. It always made me angry that dental prices went sky-high after dental insurance became available to most people. It took us 4 years to pay off charges for my DH's crowns and other work before we had an insurance option.

Rosebud-prayers for Numpster, her DH, and family. Thank you for sharing that info. It's very stressful planning funerals, so my heart goes out to her. Your birdies sound very cute! We enjoy watching the birds also, but still learning what many of them are.

Gary-yeah, we just looooove the snow (there's some sarcasm there, you know) We got 6" on top of the ice on Monday. Snow day on Tuesday! It was actually nice to have everyone home and not have to worry about DS2 driving on slick roads to school. He helped so much by blowing all the sidewalks and driveways, and for some neighbors too.

Thanks to everyone again for all the prayers for DH. He's not doing too badly. He can't use his right arm for anything yet, but wants to, so I have to keep an eye on him. Kinda like watching a 3-year-old! Not getting much alone-time now-lol!

Everyone have a nice day! Prayers for all of you.

Rosebud - thank you for your prayers! He is doing much better today - and he is finally able to get some sleep. I think your cold weather is "catching" - we are supposed to be quite cold tonight (around -15C).

Thanks for the update on NUMPSTER - our prayers continue to be with her and the family.

Ronnie - thank you as well for your prayers - they are working!!!

I had to laugh at your post - DH is the same here! You have your hands full, I'm sure!

A good day today - finished the Christmas shopping with the final items purchased for the UPS and USPS carriers (local coffee/ice cream drive-through place gift certificate)


DH is taking the boxes to UPS tomorrow, and then I am officially done with gift preparation

We finally got our little tree up last night, so the house is feeling more like Advent. I hope to get the indoor nativities set up tonight.

Hope you all had a blessed day!
Prayers continuing!

Laurie

HI EVERYONE ~ we woke up to a big snow storm which came on and off and on again this evening, but the temps fell to -5C and as I told DH, I would much rather have the mega-snow than those terribly low temperatures. The cold really bothers my legs these days; almost feels like frost-bite, if any of you have experienced that, you'd know what I mean. DH says he thinks the sudden increase in CHARLIE HORSES (muscle cramping and tightening) may be from that as well, so I upped the thermostat a bit to see if that helps. It may cost us a bit more, but it's better than suffering like that.

So, Thank You, LORD, for bringing the temps UP for us today! They say it will be HIGHER for the weekend too ... yeah!!! We spent the day wrapping our gifts for far-away family, plus I finished off the last of my cards. Tomorrow, we will get them on their way as well.

LAURIE ~ so glad to hear that DS2 is feeling better and can sleep now. We are so blessed to have insurance here and in a case like his, most dentists would consider that an emergency and take him right away. Will continue prayers for him as well. Hope those cold temps don't last too long; aren't they terrible? Did some of that snow disappear yet? From those pics, looked like everything was buried.

Sounds like you are catching up pretty well. We are just gonna put up a few decos inside, keeping it simple this year. We put a TIMER on our outdoor lights and that is very handy; we don't have to keep going in and out to turn them on and off.

RONNI ~ thanks for praying for NUMPSTER; she sent me an email just before she was going to work this AM, and asked me to thank ALL OF YOU for praying for them. Yes, she is so kind: blew up and printed and matted some best pics of NITA and had them framed and gave them to her family members as well. You know, NUMPSTER and her DH are the ones who gave me this PC so that I could come on here in the first place; and I really appreciated that.

Yes, your DH will be tempted and frustrated; and no doubt, will want to use his arm way too soon; but he must let it heal completely so as not to reinjure it all over again. Good idea to keep an eye on him; and we are continuing prayers for him for a quick and full recovery.

PS ~ I'm still trying to get that scrape in my leg to heal; it keeps scabbing over, but not falling off like it should. Had to use a creme the doc gave me today; it worked and now we start again. I am going to try something different this time to see if that works; I'm praying (literally) that it will work. Thanks for all your prayers too, as they are really needed and appreciated, so this thing will heal once and for all ...

Well, it's time for tea; take good care, your fellow encourager ROSEBUD

Need prayer.
My pastor has asked me to consider becoming an elder in my church. I asked him if he wouldn't prefer someone younger and healthier. He seems to think I am well qualified. He knows of my health issues. In the Presbyterian Church Elders are ordained. I am not, but will be if I agree, I need to let him know by Sunday. It is an awesome responsibility and I don't want to agree to this because I am flattered. I will do this if I feel that it is the will of God for me. I need prayer for making the right decision.





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Laurie-glad your son is doing better! And, that you've been able to get lots of your Christmas gifting done. I've barely started this year. Must get to town soon.

Rosebud-prayers for you leg. Lingering sores can be very worrisome, especially with some of these "superbugs" that are now circulating. Your post reminded me that I have yet to do my Christmas cards. I'm more behind than I thought. Oh, well, it'll get done sooner or later.

Bargoo-prayers for your decision. It's such an honor to be asked to be a church leader, but much responsibility also. I know God will help you make the decision.

Not much going on here, but so much going on here, if you know what I mean. I'm going and going constantly, but not accomplishing anything, except answering those, "Dear, can you get this?" or "Mom, I can't figure this question out!" I may just go crazy and take a vacation to one of those nice places with the padded walls for Christmas! Finally, just had to take a break and see what was going on at 3fc. Hope you all have a nice evening and weekend!

RONNI ~ I was feeling bad for you as you really have your hands full right now; and giggling at the same time, as I was thinking of your DH asking you for this and for that, but recalled that he only had surgery on one shoulder, not both and not on his legs either. Hope you see the humor in that? Hope you don't let everyone take too much advantage of you during this time. I wonder, can DAD help the kids with a bit of schoolwork while he is at home? Might take care of two problems at once for you. Prayers going up for you, for extra strength and patience too ...

BARGOO ~ yes, it is an honor to be asked to be a deaconess for your church; and I'm sure your pastor wouldn't even ask you if he didn't feel you were right for the position. He probably admires you for all you have been through; and thinks that you could be a real strength for the church. Will pray that the LORD will show you what his will for you is at this time: I can actually see how the LORD might want to give you something else to focus on while you heal and recover. I wouldn't worry about your age; as wisdom comes with age, and that's what they are looking for. Prayers for good health and this decision are on their way ...

Well, gifts are on their way as are the last of our Christmas Cards to family and friends. Spent the morning doing housecleaning, laundry, and baked some banana-bran muffins for DH, as he just loves them. It's still a bit cold here, but it is supposed to warm up this weekend.

Just taking it easy and staying warm indoors tonight; hope everyone has a great weekend. Take good care, your fellow encourager ROSEBUD Prayers for you and yours continue ...

Bargoo - prayers ascending! I know you will make the right decision. You have been "in tune" with God's will in your life and very receptive to the Spirit's call! Let us know what you decide

Ronni - prayers for you too! LOL - I hope you get some peace and quiet this weekend!

Rosebud - hope your leg heals soon! Prayers are continuing for you, NUMPSTER and the family!

Hello to everyone else as well - hope you have an AWESOME Spirit-filled weekend!

Doing fine hear - DS2 is still recovering - this has been an ordeal. DH and I are enjoying the family Christmas gift (the wii and yes, we opened it early) I actually have a sore shoulder from too much golf and pinball. Gotta say - the pinball is very realistic - it totally takes me back to my college day when DH and I played for hours on end.

HI GALS

Things are going well around my house. I had to work on a little side job today but still got home in time to take the dogs around the neighborhood for 2.5 miles. Angie just got home from her Christmas party at yoga.

Angie and my ex-wife spent the morning with my kids and dil/sil at my ex-wife's former bosses house. He is lives in Japan most of the year, he has a home in our area but wants to sell it and buy in Hawaii. He has a house full of nice furniture....and I mean everything from outside BBQ and wicker chairs to full on leather couches and chairs/bedroom sets. Anyway he gave it all to my ex-wife (she worked for him for many years and he is a great guy) since he really can't use it in Japan and he and his wife don't want it in Hawaii. My family was down there all day loading and packing stuff....much of the $$$ from sales 0f the items not needed will go to our church family assistance.

SCOOTER ~Continued prayers for DS and have fun with that wii!

BARGOO ~ I have been praying for your deacon decision...you rock

ROSEBUD ~ Could use some of those
bran muffins around here! Prayers for those legs

RONNI ~ Hey I have a guest room here in sunny (well except for the rain we are supposed to get next week ) you can escape to

WILMA ~ GINNY ~ KAREN ~ SUE ~ TRISH ~ all the others...hi

Bargoo- prayers for wisdom regarding your decision. What an honor to be asked- and I am sure you will be such a blessing to all if you agree to serve your church in that capacity. I wish you peace with whatever you decide.
Ginny

(sorry not to get personal with anyone else- what a rough weekend!)
Hi to Gary, Rosebud, Laurie and Ronni! Have a blessed Sunday.

Ginny - hope the rest of the weekend goes better - prayers continuing for you!

Gary - awesome news on the furniture - efforts were well spent! What a great thing that it will benefit families in need!

Good day today - got "chores" done, and DS2 is feeling MUCH better - thank you all for your prayers. Also - on the DS2 front - the wii has turned out to be the perfect family gift this Christmas - I'm thanking the Lord every day for the inspiration and wisdom to purchase it. DS2 has spent more time with us in the last week than in the last two months combined. Even with his swelling and tooth issues, we have been able to "connect" with him through playing games together.

I was hesitant to spend the money on the system, but it really has helped us to find some "common ground" with him - an area where HE is the expert and WE are the students - it has been a blessing already

Prayers continuing for all! I hope you have a blessed third Sunday in Advent!

Hello to all and thank you for your kind words and prayers, it has been quite a chaotic time in our household, but I believe God does not give us any more than we are able to handle. Even if it doesn't seem that way at the time!

Sadly I don't have a lot of time to read all the posts & reply, especially during excessively busy times.....10 hour work days, do take a toll. Rosebud as I mentioned in another post, you know I faithfully read yours since I want to keep abreast on what you and DH are up to! We were terribly busy with the funeral, preparing artwork for a Christmas mural at work, setting up/troubleshooting a couple friends MP3 players and loading 'em up with music files from my database and volunteer work for our Christmas families also at work. We go out this Monday to do all the shopping. DH is going with me to help with the lifting and once I've got him there, I'm going to corral him into wrapping......he just doesn't know that yet! A friend at work has asked if I would consider doing a photoshoot for her daughters wedding.....oh boy, I just don't know whether to commit or not. It's not until April and it's only a small wedding, but I just don't know if I'm confident enough. I have two awesome Panasonic Lumix cameras & a Sony HD video camera which would be sufficient to do the shoot but I so lack confidence. I'm still mulling it over.

I haven't even begun Christmas shopping for my own family yet....YIKES! On Tuesday my daughter and I will hit the pavement and try to get some of it done. I'm just terrified that if I over do it, I'll be sick for Christmas, so we'll just have to pace it out.

Bargoo, sending up prayers for direction on accepting/declining the elder position. It is a very great honour that you were asked. God's will be done!

ronni62 sending up prayers to get you through this stressful time. You have a large load to carry. Find time for yourself, relax, take a breather. Sounds like you need it!!

ECmom, hi there and I don't think anyone would be upset that you weren't able to be personal. We know what life can be like at times. Take care and have a blessed Sunday also!

CountingDown awesome that all your shopping is done and your tree is up!!! Good for you. Hopefully next week I can say the same. Christmas is coming far too quickly. The Wii was a great idea and awesome that it has helped you to find common ground with him! It is great to find ways to connect, some are so hard to reach and it's very important to spend family time together.

EZMONEY, wow what a generous man he is to give all that furniture away and excellent that you will be selling some off and providing it to your chuch family assistance! I admire you for consistancy and dedication to your walks. I want to get back to walking, actually both my DH & I do. We both need the excercise and know we would feel so much better for it. Having dogs is helpful as it encourages one to go on walks. I have an elderly dog who doesn't quite see walking as fun anymore....she punks out on us after only a block or so. We had a geriatric household of pets and 2 passed away this year leaving us with just our Shelby. We don't expect she has many years left. Eventually we plan on getting a pup....a little closer to retirement though and I'm sure that will give us another reason to get out walking more often. Until then we'll just have to force ourselves to make the effort. We are looking after my brothers cat for a while, but cats aren't the walking type.

Rosebud, you may be very well right about the weather affecting/causing the charlie horses. Sudden changes in weather can play havoc on the body. Hope you leg is better, prayers sent up for healing for you! Glad to hear you have everything almost ready for Christmas....wanna come help me out?????? lol Can't wait until retirement (or semi-retirement). I just never seem to have time anymore and it's not that I don't try to make the time.....it's that people are so demanding of my time. In one way it's a compliment that they come to me, but on the other hand, there is only so much one human being is capable of. I have to work on a Christmas video to play on Christmas day when the family gathers. It will be sort of a memory video for our dear Nita, gosh I still can't wrapped my head around that fact that she is gone....I know the facts but it just doesn't seem real...such a young person. I have photos from various family events & video from last Christmas which was at her home (which it always was) so I'll incorporate some of that footage. I don't want to make it a sad video....don't want people sad & crying on Christmas day. I'll try to make it uplifting somehow.

I went last Monday for an MRI....that was interesting. Sheesh why don't they tell people in advance that this machine is very confining. I'm claustrophobic (reeeeeeeeeeeally claustrophobic) and couldn't go through with it. I tried, but it scared the beejeebees out of me....to the point of onset of a panic attack. I can't believe I was set up like that. Poke me, prod me, cause me all sorts of pain....I can totally handle that, but put me in a confined space and I lose it! Called the specialist that ordered this and they seemed very inconsiderate but did offer a sedative for the next appointment....fine, I'll try that, but if that doesn't work, I'm done with it. On one had, I feel really stupid and on the other hand I know my limits. DH is going to come in with me and maybe that will help too...who knows. I know I need the MRI because I want to ensure it was not a stroke I had in the summer, I just don't know if I can get past my phobia to do it even with meds. I'm a fighter so I won't give in without a valiant effort first though.

Well I better get off of here, gotta do those Christmas cards today. I double booked this evening, friends invited us over to play a new game but Bre called last night and said she was coming over this evening and without thinking I agreed. Just too much on my mind I guess.....oh well.

Hope you all have a terrific day and will touch base again soon! God Bless!

Numpster

Numpster MRI can be very frightening. Take the sedative that is offered and keep your eyes closed during the actual MRI. And I pray while I am getting these scary tests, It helps! Good luck and thank you for your encouraging words regarding my decision.

NUMPSTER ~ I had one of those done last year and it's no problem at all. It doesn't hurt at all, and you don't even touch the sides of the tunnel. You just lay down on the gerney; they put some medicine in your arm that makes you feel warm all over. Then they gently slide the gerney into the machine, take the pics, and move you back out. It only takes a matter of minutes. They will tell you that you have to lay still while they are taking the pics just like any other xray. I thought the same as you, and asked the techie if it hurts, and that it looks kinda squishy; but he reassured me, correctly, that it doesn't hurt or squish you ... there's lots of room in there, and you are smaller than me! It's just one of those things that looks scary, but isn't; and you are gonna laugh at yourself, big time, after you're done ... really! Hey, I'm your sis, and I wouldn't lie to you!!! Good advice there from Bargoo as well; AND, it's so nice to see you in here posting; but I do know that you have a very busy life.

THANKS TO EVERYONE for your prayers for my leg; and I sure hope and pray that it heals up real soon.

PRAYERS going up for everyone for all your concerns and needs at this time ... ROSEBUD

Just a short hello- the stress keeps on building here, what a mess life has been recently! My Pastor's sermon was on who is in control (Ps 10) and WOW it was just what I needed. Perfectly. God is so good.

I did scan the posts and can share my experience with Numster-
I had to have an MRI, they were looking for brain injury. Now, mind you claustrophibia is not an issue with me, so I was not too nervous about it. I did decide that the way to get thru this was to pick a few of my favorite hymns. I made it a challenge to myself, that during the MRI I would not open my eyes- but sing to myself these hymns that I selected- and I forced myself to sing and remember ALL the verses. If I forgot a verse or word I had to start the whole hymn over. It worked for me. I was actually surprised when they told me it was over. Perhaps that will help.
Gotta go- Hi to everyone.
Ginny