I can hardly wait to wake up each morning.
I love my home. It feels good. It is a comfortable place to be. The vista of the golf course with the sounds of the early morning mowers, beg a person to rise.
My new Lattissima Plus coffee maker, is the "bomb". It treats me to a professional latte everyday. (Just a minute, I believe I need another cup.)
That first morning kiss, from the same man I married nearly 43 years ago, is familiar and I appreciate it.
I do a once over to check out the ole body. I make sure all is still in operating condition and thank God for giving me another day.
I pray for my family that their day will be filled with blessings. I pray for my friends that their lives may be filled with happiness and the strength to carry them through adversity. I pray for guidance for our government, that we be lead with wisdom.
The morning always starts out fresh. I usually have a plan, but being retired allows me to be flexible.
I enjoy listening to the news. Being informed empowers me.
I put off the treadmill until just before I need to get dressed. (Walking gives me a sense of accomplishment.)
Quiet, to ponder my blessings is precious.
And plenty of projects to fill my day
Arise and feel the spirit!
Jan
Monday, April 16, 2012
Saturday, April 14, 2012
Be Prepared!
I sit here awaiting the storm. Perhaps the meteorologists will be spot on this time, and the "life threatening" storm will make its way to our area. Perhaps the storm ahead is one we can't even imagine.
Are you ready?
Do you have your affairs in order? Have you discussed with your family your final wishes? Is it important to you to leave things in order?
I always remember my mother spending extra time before we would leave our home, to make sure everything was in order. At the end of each of my parents' lives, their affairs were also left, just as they lived, "in order". I am determined to do the same for my children.
We have had numerous warnings in the past few days regarding our upcoming storm. We have our "safe" location designated, water, food, tv, blankets, meds, extra clothes, flashlights, walking shoes, etc. ready to go. We have done our due diligence to prepare ourselves the best we can.
Lightning is searing across the sky, dark clouds are rolling from west to east. Rain is periodically pouring from the clouds, thunder interrupts our thoughts and conversations. God has certainly done his best to alert us to the evening ahead. I guess my question is, am I ready for what may be ahead?
The storm may or may not rain down on us, or yet it may be another type of storm for which we should prepare. I hope I am strong enough. I trust God will wrap His arms around and shelter me.
Stay safe. Be prepared. Plan ahead. Be wise and be strong. Do not waste time on fear. Fear can paralyze and take away needed energy. Love and live as much as you can each day.
May your storms be nothing more than a warning.
Live from Nebraska,
Jan
Are you ready?
Do you have your affairs in order? Have you discussed with your family your final wishes? Is it important to you to leave things in order?
I always remember my mother spending extra time before we would leave our home, to make sure everything was in order. At the end of each of my parents' lives, their affairs were also left, just as they lived, "in order". I am determined to do the same for my children.
We have had numerous warnings in the past few days regarding our upcoming storm. We have our "safe" location designated, water, food, tv, blankets, meds, extra clothes, flashlights, walking shoes, etc. ready to go. We have done our due diligence to prepare ourselves the best we can.
Lightning is searing across the sky, dark clouds are rolling from west to east. Rain is periodically pouring from the clouds, thunder interrupts our thoughts and conversations. God has certainly done his best to alert us to the evening ahead. I guess my question is, am I ready for what may be ahead?
The storm may or may not rain down on us, or yet it may be another type of storm for which we should prepare. I hope I am strong enough. I trust God will wrap His arms around and shelter me.
Stay safe. Be prepared. Plan ahead. Be wise and be strong. Do not waste time on fear. Fear can paralyze and take away needed energy. Love and live as much as you can each day.
May your storms be nothing more than a warning.
Live from Nebraska,
Jan
Wednesday, April 11, 2012
If Only
It happened in just an instant. A child begs her mom to "pleeeze" let her check out what her friends are doing. Repeatedly, Mom tells her "no", but finally relents and lets her eight-year-old join briefly in the activities.
We all remember how many times our own children broke down our strong convictions and against our better judgement, we gave in to their desire to do what the other kids are doing. In our heart, we know the activity has a potential to be dangerous, but perhaps the risk would be worth the reward.
Our daughter's daughter, used her persuasion powers to convince her mom to let her get out of the car to checkout the new toy the neighbor received for Easter. Not being familiar with the air-pumped nerf rocket, Arieanna leaned over to see it more closely and of course, this would be the time the rocket accidentally would shoot off into her face. The shock of the impact must have her head and she was left in a great deal of pain. Ice was applied and after a time, all appeared back to normal.
Another tragedy was averted, lesson learned.
As a parent, you act as if all is well, but in the back of your head, you have that feeling that there is a slim possibility something may be lurking.
Fast forward to the next day at the ophthalmologist, when you hear the words you weren't prepared to handle. "We have a very serious situation here." Your breath no longer comes easily. Your heart beats at a pace you aren't accustomed to. Maybe that's because your heart has sunk as low as you think it can go.
Time has now passed through surgery and a long night full of worry. Only time will begin to slightly ease the trepidation of doom. Both of these beautiful brown eyes. The eyes that look to you for guidance, will need to heal from detached retinas. An accident that could have, would have, been avoided "if only".
Our family selfishly ask for your prayers. May they include strength for us to deal with whatever the future brings to Arieanna. May her sight be restored or foresight to deal with transition to another vision.
Grandma Jan
We all remember how many times our own children broke down our strong convictions and against our better judgement, we gave in to their desire to do what the other kids are doing. In our heart, we know the activity has a potential to be dangerous, but perhaps the risk would be worth the reward.
Our daughter's daughter, used her persuasion powers to convince her mom to let her get out of the car to checkout the new toy the neighbor received for Easter. Not being familiar with the air-pumped nerf rocket, Arieanna leaned over to see it more closely and of course, this would be the time the rocket accidentally would shoot off into her face. The shock of the impact must have her head and she was left in a great deal of pain. Ice was applied and after a time, all appeared back to normal.
Another tragedy was averted, lesson learned.
As a parent, you act as if all is well, but in the back of your head, you have that feeling that there is a slim possibility something may be lurking.
Fast forward to the next day at the ophthalmologist, when you hear the words you weren't prepared to handle. "We have a very serious situation here." Your breath no longer comes easily. Your heart beats at a pace you aren't accustomed to. Maybe that's because your heart has sunk as low as you think it can go.
Time has now passed through surgery and a long night full of worry. Only time will begin to slightly ease the trepidation of doom. Both of these beautiful brown eyes. The eyes that look to you for guidance, will need to heal from detached retinas. An accident that could have, would have, been avoided "if only".
Our family selfishly ask for your prayers. May they include strength for us to deal with whatever the future brings to Arieanna. May her sight be restored or foresight to deal with transition to another vision.
Grandma Jan
Thursday, March 29, 2012
Influence
I am way too old for guilt!
If I were able to remember way back, I could find way too many things to feel guilty about. At this stage of my life I can only focus on going forward. I truly believe that is a true "sign of life".
I have just finished the cleaning of our master bath for the, ah ah maybe thousandth time. Probably should have done this a week or so ago, but at this rate I won't have to do it for a while again. Really a good thing the bathroom police hadn't shown up yet. My mother certainly wouldn't have let it get to this state. No, my mother never seemed to put things off, nor did she really ever take the time to sit down, much less to read a book. When you have a parent like her, you can have a tendency to feel guilty about a lot of things.
My mom did enjoy a good cup of coffee however. I believe coffee was about her only vice. Every time we would go shopping or take a short trip, or need to talk, she would sit down for a few minutes with a cup of coffee. I miss her but also know she's in a place where all the coffee is free.
We grew up in a parsonage, so my mother felt a real need to live in a "perfect" home. Our house was owned and provided by the congregation, therefore it needed to be treated with respect. You never knew when one of the "owners" may come by for a visit.
All of us were used to living in an organized place with an attention to detail. I believe that is why I feel guilty or uncomfortable if I am not on top of things in our home. It is difficult to maintain those same standards and to fit in personal needs I.e. reading, blogging, face booking, texting, etc. maybe if Mom had some of these obligations in her life, she would have had a more relaxed life.
It is good to reflect on our past and evaluate the standards set for us to see if those standards are still part of our current life. Thanks Mom and Dad for the life you provided us kids. It has kept a continued influence on me.
Miss you,
Jan
If I were able to remember way back, I could find way too many things to feel guilty about. At this stage of my life I can only focus on going forward. I truly believe that is a true "sign of life".
I have just finished the cleaning of our master bath for the, ah ah maybe thousandth time. Probably should have done this a week or so ago, but at this rate I won't have to do it for a while again. Really a good thing the bathroom police hadn't shown up yet. My mother certainly wouldn't have let it get to this state. No, my mother never seemed to put things off, nor did she really ever take the time to sit down, much less to read a book. When you have a parent like her, you can have a tendency to feel guilty about a lot of things.
My mom did enjoy a good cup of coffee however. I believe coffee was about her only vice. Every time we would go shopping or take a short trip, or need to talk, she would sit down for a few minutes with a cup of coffee. I miss her but also know she's in a place where all the coffee is free.
We grew up in a parsonage, so my mother felt a real need to live in a "perfect" home. Our house was owned and provided by the congregation, therefore it needed to be treated with respect. You never knew when one of the "owners" may come by for a visit.
All of us were used to living in an organized place with an attention to detail. I believe that is why I feel guilty or uncomfortable if I am not on top of things in our home. It is difficult to maintain those same standards and to fit in personal needs I.e. reading, blogging, face booking, texting, etc. maybe if Mom had some of these obligations in her life, she would have had a more relaxed life.
It is good to reflect on our past and evaluate the standards set for us to see if those standards are still part of our current life. Thanks Mom and Dad for the life you provided us kids. It has kept a continued influence on me.
Miss you,
Jan
Friday, February 17, 2012
LOVE IT!
A day late but not a wish short for a beautiful day filled with as many valentines as you can carry!
We had a wonderful day from start to finish. I am starting each day by walking, not jogging, on our tread mill for 30 minutes. May not sound like much to you, but to me it's a pretty big deal. Steve and I are also spending our days at our son's home. Steve is finishing the basement and I am refinishing old furniture for the basement. It's fun to accomplish something and keep each other company. Perhaps someone should check this observation with Steve, however, I may just be interrupting his thought process when I need assistance.
Our Valentines evening ended with our children, spouses and their children joining us for a wonderful dinner. Couldn't have asked for a better day. What fun to to have your favorite people surround you on Valentines Day.
Here's wishing you hearts of love from our house to yours.
Jan
We had a wonderful day from start to finish. I am starting each day by walking, not jogging, on our tread mill for 30 minutes. May not sound like much to you, but to me it's a pretty big deal. Steve and I are also spending our days at our son's home. Steve is finishing the basement and I am refinishing old furniture for the basement. It's fun to accomplish something and keep each other company. Perhaps someone should check this observation with Steve, however, I may just be interrupting his thought process when I need assistance.
Our Valentines evening ended with our children, spouses and their children joining us for a wonderful dinner. Couldn't have asked for a better day. What fun to to have your favorite people surround you on Valentines Day.
Here's wishing you hearts of love from our house to yours.
Jan
Thursday, February 2, 2012
Travels
Over 23 hours in the car with only the two of us together. We did have a break periodically when we took advantage of the local gas station restrooms. but that was the extent of it.
I.want to make it perfectly clear that this was not an imposition for either of us. After nearly 43 years together, Steve and I still enjoy each others company. Our trip, both ways, was a pleasant journey. The diversified landscapes captures the eyes and hearts of travelers. How can our world be so beautiful in so many ways?
It is such a privilege to have the opportunity to travel to Arizona to enjoy the scenery, weather, relatives and sights. Our dear neighbors entrusted their new Fountain Hills home to us, so this made the trip soooo much more pleasant.
We are safely home enjoying beautiful temperatures. There is a blizzard looming in the near future. Can hardly wait.
Sunny now,
Jan
I.want to make it perfectly clear that this was not an imposition for either of us. After nearly 43 years together, Steve and I still enjoy each others company. Our trip, both ways, was a pleasant journey. The diversified landscapes captures the eyes and hearts of travelers. How can our world be so beautiful in so many ways?
It is such a privilege to have the opportunity to travel to Arizona to enjoy the scenery, weather, relatives and sights. Our dear neighbors entrusted their new Fountain Hills home to us, so this made the trip soooo much more pleasant.
We are safely home enjoying beautiful temperatures. There is a blizzard looming in the near future. Can hardly wait.
Sunny now,
Jan
Saturday, January 7, 2012
New Year
Most people don't usually get as excited as I do about cleaning, but I get a high from it. I've talked before about my laundry room, how I have it decorated, makes me feel like doing my laundry and keeping it organized. It's the little things that make me smile. The door pulls are butterflies, dragon flies and bees. They make me smile when I look at them. The wall organizer came from Pottery Barn and gives the room the custom look. The pictures of the grandchildren are what inspire me each day.
This past week Steve and I tackled our pantry. How often does a person take everything out, give it good cleaning, throw out the expired items and mentally take an inventory of what you have. How nice it is when you know you already have an item and also know where it is. I am so fortunate to have a large, walk-in pantry and I am ticked pink that during construction I requested a "refrigerator" light for the room. I wanted to make sure every time I opened the door the light was on and it would automatically turn off when the door closed. A convenience I just couldn't live without now.
Organization makes my heart sing. Perhaps it's because I married a "Mister Organized". I can remember our first apartment together. (We didn't live together before we were married, so a lot of things in the beginning were a surprise.). I learned pretty quickly that everything should have and be in its place.
Growing up in a minister's home, we lived in the parsonage, which was owned by the church our Dad was serving. Due to the fact that the home was not technically ours, Mom felt compelled to keep it "company ready" because the door was always open to the parishioners. When you're raised this way, you know no different, and it becomes a habit. Thank you Mom!
The New Year has begun and at our home many projects are underway. The decorations are securely put away for another year and anticipation is in the air for big snows and lots of inside time to do the little things we normally don't want to take the time to do.
Off to a place we hope will be at least as nice as it is here in Nebraska. Perhaps we'll miss a snowstorm while we are there.
Health and happiness in the new year for all,
Jan
This past week Steve and I tackled our pantry. How often does a person take everything out, give it good cleaning, throw out the expired items and mentally take an inventory of what you have. How nice it is when you know you already have an item and also know where it is. I am so fortunate to have a large, walk-in pantry and I am ticked pink that during construction I requested a "refrigerator" light for the room. I wanted to make sure every time I opened the door the light was on and it would automatically turn off when the door closed. A convenience I just couldn't live without now.
Organization makes my heart sing. Perhaps it's because I married a "Mister Organized". I can remember our first apartment together. (We didn't live together before we were married, so a lot of things in the beginning were a surprise.). I learned pretty quickly that everything should have and be in its place.
Growing up in a minister's home, we lived in the parsonage, which was owned by the church our Dad was serving. Due to the fact that the home was not technically ours, Mom felt compelled to keep it "company ready" because the door was always open to the parishioners. When you're raised this way, you know no different, and it becomes a habit. Thank you Mom!
The New Year has begun and at our home many projects are underway. The decorations are securely put away for another year and anticipation is in the air for big snows and lots of inside time to do the little things we normally don't want to take the time to do.
Off to a place we hope will be at least as nice as it is here in Nebraska. Perhaps we'll miss a snowstorm while we are there.
Health and happiness in the new year for all,
Jan
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