Sunday blues

I've got a bad case of the "Sunday Blues". Church was very inspirational--in fact some serious tears were shed as I was duly convicted and challenged. Lonnie grilled some steaks--that along with a delicious salad and my favorite veggie, broccoli, topped off a wonderful Sunday dinner. Lonnie even cleared the table. So what is my problem? If I knew, maybe I could do something about it. I just feel low, sad, lonely, depressed, even a little angry--need I go on? Those words alone make me feel even worse. Who ever said it is good to talk about your problems? I think I am in serious need of some girlfriend time--my life just isn't cutting it right now. Maybe another part of that is I'm not sure I even have any girlfriends. I've not been very good at cultivating my friendships these past few years. Anyone up for some girl time fun? Call me!

New Picture Needed!!

We have a new grandson!! and consequently, we need a new photo for my blog! For those of you who didn't know, Mark and Kristen have been trying to adopt a little boy from Haiti for over 2 years. When Kristen was visiting him in Haiti two weeks ago, the 7.0 earthquake hit causing much devastation, and fear on our part regarding their safety. We finally heard she was safe and all the children in the orphanage were safe, but it was not a good place for any of them. Four days later, Kristen and Karis came home, but without Kembert. After hundreds of phone calls and letters to congressmen, last Friday, Kembert came to the US. Mark met him in Florida and they flew to California the next day. A large group of friends and family members met them at LAX--what a joyous reunion. And now he is home. Learning about his new family, learning a new language, learning about new food, having new experiences, McDonald's, trampolines, a mom and dad, brothers and sisters, cultural experiences we probably aren't even aware of. What a blessing to us all. I am very excited to get to know the newest member of our precious family--can't wait for some very special grandma hugs, and times together. Thank you God, for yet another little person to love and share life with.

Retirement Job!!

I've always said I couldn't retire until I found my retirement job/passion. Well, I found it today. I have always wanted to live on a farm. I have no idea why, I know it is 12 months of 24/7 hard work. I must have some glorified version in my head of what being on a farm is like, horses, bunnies, goats, gathering eggs--and yet, my intellect tells me STOP!! Today, I (and Sarah) took our little Kinder friends to the Centenniel Farm at the Orange County Fairgrounds. And there, I found my future volunteer employment--a docent at the farm. One who takes small groups of children around the farm, explaining and teaching their little hearts out for one hour or so, then telling the kids goodbye, and being finished!! No grade cards, no parent conferences, (I do enjoy meeting the parents, however), no hours of planning--but of course, the bad part--no paycheck. So I guess I'll stay where I am for a while longer anyway. I do like money. Besides, there is something about developing relationships with the kids. Falling in love with them, and seeing their amazing growth over the 10 months we have them. Today, I loved looking into the eyes of the kids while we sang rousing renditions of Old MacDonald, Itsy, Bitsy Spider and countless other classics, and seeing their utter joy. Yes, I am exactly where I am supposed to be. At least for now.

Fall at Last!

True, the leaves haven't starting changing colors--most won't. But it is cool--55 degrees last night at 10:00. And we are going to the pumpkin patch tonight!! It is fall!! We've been so hot for the past 2 months that wearing long sleeved shirts and hoodies is a welcome treat! I'm feeling fallish!! That means a hot sweet drink every morning to get me going. There are two beautiful children asleep in two of my rooms. A hot cup of coffee in my hands. Warm clothes on my body. A beautiful warm home. Thank you, Lord for this beautiful day!

Summer Nights

What a fun evening we had tonight. We watched Wall-E with two of our grandkids and their mom and dad in a beautiful park under the stars. Who knew that would be so delightful. It brought back memories of the family drive-in nights our family used to love. My mom would pop a bushel basket full of popcorn--with butter! Also, since we didn't have an ice maker, she would wrap two ice cube trays with newspaper, and bring cups and cokes for our drinks. We never went to the concession stand--we always brought our own treats. The main difference was tonight we were wrapped up in blankets before the movie was over. Summer nights back in Kansas were steamy hot--but no less fun and memorable! I don't remember one single specific movie I watched in those years, but the feeling of family was undeniable. Memories don't get any better!! Save your money moms and dads--your kids will remember nights like tonight forever!!

Ants

Yes, I am well aware of the awesomeness of ants. They are tireless workers, extremely industrious. And I know they can lift and carry something like 100 times their body weight. And they are even somewhat cute when you look at them up close. But, the truth is, I hate them!! In the heat we have been experiencing here in Southern California, they have literally taken over my kitchen. Since I am anti-poison, I tried everything--water, vinegar, Windex, you name it, to deter their assult on my home. I finally resorted to Raid when they covered my entire kitchen counter. I let it stand for 24 hours to hopefully send the word out--"Keep out of this house!" The next evening, as I was wiping up the bodies, I opened one of my pantry doors to see swarms of them--it was like they were in Disneyland! It was late, I was tired, I shut the door and told them to eat all they want--I would be back tomorrow. Well, it's now three days later. I have still not taken everything out of my pantry and killed the little critters. They are still swarming--even though they don't seem to be eating anything. And there seem to be a little fewer of them today. Believe it or not, I am learning to like the little guys. The good news is, it has cooled off somewhat--it's only in the 90's and down in the 60's at night. I feel strongly that they will begin their pilgrimage out of my pantry tonight. If not, tomorrow is truly "D" day--and that stands for DEATH!! Consider yourselves forewarned!!

Summer Vacation--Nearing It's End

We are enjoying a few days in Seattle visiting our son Michael and his wonderful family.  It has been cool here unlike Southern California where we have been burning!!  Today, it even rained--delightful!!  It has been so fun--staying up late, reading, sleeping late, taking great walks in the trails that surround their house, eating decadent cupcakes, taking the kids to movies, eating delicious farm grown vegetables, drinking hot tea, just spending time with the grandkids--all in all, an amazing time.  In a way I am dreading going home on Wednesday.  That is when the countdown begins for going back to work.  And I have tons to do before I go back to work.  And I am not ready to leave my summer!!  Please don't let it end just yet!!