Good morning to all. We are off to a routine doctor appointment and then shopping. We will have our Christmas this weekend and expect the first out of town guests this evening.
Today is laundry day so there is that. And my brother comes up from Boise. Some snow but not much. Not expecting any snow between now and Christmas but Christmas comes anyway because we needed a Saviour.
Good afternoon! We had a great time at Bible study this morning. I took in very nice cookbooks for the ladies to choose one each. The Bible study leader brought cupcakes and also some fashion jewelry for us to choose from, another lady brought baggies full of treats and kleenex, etc
One lady said she didn’t know to bring a gift, and we all said, “We don’t usually do this!” It was not planned. I also brought shoes that perfectly fit a lady in need of shoes.
The study was on the final chapter in James. We covered a lot of ground on prayer and righteousness that leads right into our next topical study, The Pursuit of Holiness, by Jerry Bridges.
Found and reading an interesting book called, “On Being a Christian, Who We Are and What We Do in Christ.” Makes me feel like I am sitting at the feet of the author once again. Know the author?
Michelle, my study group goes where the Spirit leads . . . and sometimes that means back to the oldies but goodies. We are the Wellspring Ladies. We dig deep.
Good morning all. Things are slowly progressing, thanks to our gracious and merciful God.
I now have Physical therapy nurse in once a week, Occupational therapy nurse once a week, and the Visiting Nurses in twice a week.
Got a CT scan coming up on Monday to make sure I have no leaks or retention of fluids, surgical followup the following Monday to hopefully remove the last drain, stitches, and staples.
I’m doing my exercises and getting up every 2 hours to walk the house from living room to back porch, and back. This is for building strength and making sure the muscles don’t atrophy. I’m able to sit up and stand without help or using the walker. I’ve even been moving around some without the walker, although keeping it close by. This is encouraging, as it took 6 months to get here after the surgeries a year ago.
My wife continues to bless me with her love, help, and kindness. She continues to be a blessing from God.
I also thank all of you for your continued prayers and well wishes. It means a lot to me, and I thank the Lord for you all.
Thanks for blessing us with the good news that God has blessed you with, Aj.
So I drove to Yuba City, about 30 miles away, to go to the xfinity store. They had raised my bill from 45 to 103 a month. I don’t do well with trying to sort out those things over the phone. We made some adjustments and found another special to bring my bill back down to 45 dollars. That simple trip saved me over 1200 dollars.. My next option was to cancel my service.
My friend Clara came over to clean last night. She spent two hours and things are looking good. She is tall so even reached up to wipe off the fan blades. We even had dinner together.
My friends are having their kitchen redone in January so will be staying here with me. so the house is ready for them.
Jo
Tomorrow I will help fill boxes for the 33 families we are taking food and gifts to from the church. Lots of needs out there.
It feels nothing like Christmas today here. The weather is beautiful but warm and humid.
I have arranged with the guys who clean my roof to use their leaf blowers to clear the newest batch of leaves off the yard. We are usually done with leaves by now. Not sure which day they will be here. It will be loud, but worth it.
Yesterday’s high was 73°, one degree short of the record. Tomorrow will be down to 34° as the low. Today is chill down day.
I did a regifting of something I received this year. I hope that is okay in God’s eyes.
Glad to know Dj is okay, Kizzie. Last time she was absent for a bit, she had Covid.
I got up early to make muffins. I have more energy to bake then than late in the day. I am thinking I may need to change my daily routine to do that on most days.
Regifting is fine. Why would you waste something if someone else may enjoy it? Just don’t regift to the one who gave it to you. My sister once did that with a plaque I had given her about sisters. I happened to open it at her house and told her I had given it to HER. She shrugged and went looking for the new one she bought (totally different) to give to me instead. One just has to laugh.
Beautiful start to the day in the forest. Overcast making the temps warmer than yesterday. Christmas music playing and napping dogs close by. I just need the sweet aroma of fresh baked muffins like at Janice’s home!!!
I haven’t regifted presents but I have donated some to goodwill! 😊
I am trying to pay my toll fees for going over the Bay bridge
it will not accept any of my info
okay I will admit that I got confused and put visa for name of card. But finally realized that they wanted my name. Tried three cards a nothing is working
Time, like an ever-rolling stream, Bears all its sons away; They fly forgotten, as a dream Dies at the opening day. (Isaac Watts “O God, Our Help in Ages Past”)
I’m reminded of that verse a lot when it seems time is going faster than it used to. Here it is Friday again. Where did the week go?
Nurses were in this morning. Incisions are healing, they took blood to run before Monday’s CT scan, things seem to be progressing as we’d hoped, thank God.
I’m up and about every 2 hours to strengthen and use my muscles. I can sit and stand on my own, even walk about a bit without the walker or cane, but only when supervised.
Everything looks good with my new, permanent colostomy stoma. It’s functioning well and looks healthy according to the nurses. My appetite is slowly improving as well.
My full time nurse Cheryl continues to be a blessing and a fantastic helper. She keeps me going, motivated, and feeling loved and well cared for. I love her dearly and thank our gracious God for such a wonderful blessing and gift. I couldn’t do this without her.
I also thank God for all of you, your prayers, and friendship. It means a lot.
Good morning. I am trying to work up the energy to get started on projects. Trey has caroling tonight. We go to Alb tomorrow to do fun things for his birthday.
I am so glad to hear AJs updates. Healing is certainly a process. Praying that God gives you strength and encouragement.
Thank you, AJ, for the update and the tribute to your nurse. She has done such a great job! The appreciation you show her and how you brag on her is heart-warming. You have blessed all of us over the years with keeping us together as much as it is possible to herd cats of different stripes 🙂
This morning I got to watch the livestream of the graduation ceremony son participated in as a faculty member . I thought about how Covid prevented us from attending his PhD graduation, but how God now allows me to see numerous graduations by livestream and know some grads are students he taught. We feel losses, but somehow God helps us to see the gains over time vastly outweigh the losses.
You should have phoned me, Jo! (Or maybe you did. I haven’t looked yet).
Generally, if you don’t have a Fast Trak, you can just drive over, log in later, and pay on-line. Sometimes they’ll send you a bill in the mail.
When I got caught in such a mess on the east coast, they sent the bill to the rental car company and I reimbursed them.
It happens all the time.
Meanwhile, I’ve been out buying what I hope are the final Christmas gifts, and way too much food. But, no one will starve at our house!
Still waiting to hear if the Adorables are coming over this weekend, or when, for the annual cookie party. SOme of us head south on Monday.
I’m currently amazed to be home with the lights on.
P,G, &E sent a letter a month ago warning they were turning off our power all day today.
Yesterday, they text to say they were turning off our power between 9 and 4.
It’s almost 1 now, my husband has demonstrated the small generator works, the heater is running, and we’ve got lights and power on this computer.
Because of that deadline, however, I’ve been working like a crazy woman to get all the family writing I’m doing–as Christmas gifts–done and printed.
I finished late last night, was up this morning early to correct, and then reprint as necessary so I could get to the UPS store early–in case they were mobbed and I could get the writing put into a comb.
I’ve just returned home and the lights are still on–I was going to wrap gifts.
In other news, we’re still sorting out where we’re going to meet for my interview on Monday.
The 96-year-old-woman’s son-in-law wrote this morning, “I’m not sure where we’re going to meet. My mother-in-law had to stay home today, rather than come to our house, because she needed to witness to her Japanese gardener!”
Got to love her–which I’m sure I will.
Juji Nakada was quite a character, and apparently his granddaughter is as well!
I thought today would be a stay home day…nope. I returned an item for husband at the UPS store, decided to drop in at Goodwill and found a wall basket and mantel clock…spent 6.00!
On to the grocery to pick up wrapping paper. Seems all the rolls I had have disappeared. Husband move crates to the loft in the garage…thinking that is where the wrap is hiding! And that stop at the store for just wrapping paper??? Left there spending 120.00!!! We have plenty of food now just like at M’s home!!
While at the store neighbor texted she had dropped off cookies. While in the produce section I grabbed pears, apples, oranges and nuts. Placed them in a sweet buttocks basket I had purchased last month and ta da…gift delivered to neighbor! And I found out the are planning to move!🥲
I hear there is a stomach bug making the rounds here as well Janice. A school in Elizabeth closed early for Christmas break due to so many fallen ill.
Mumsee – That is so sad and unfair, for the children and for the father. Is the agreement a binding one, issued (I guess that’s the word) by the court, part of a legal custody agreement?
If anyone knows a small business owner whose business is an LLC or small corporation, please tell them that they need to look into filing a new form due by Dec. 31 so as not to face steep penalties. I told an artist friend about it last night, and she was unaware. She is very grateful. Art had sent out letters reminding his clients so that was the only reason I knew.
I wondered if that was it, Michelle. We have a once red-headed friend dealing with the mighty Moh and he describes what he looks like and it sounded similar.
Today is the Sunday before Christmas. The last of the four Advent candles will be lit leaving only the Christ candle.
The church we attend now has a lit Advent wreath but does not make it into a ceremony of lighting with Scripture reading and perhaps a child in the attending family lighting the candle. I miss having the full ceremony.
Have a blessed church service if you are able to attend.
A thought: No one knows the date of Jesus’ birth. 12/25 is an arbitrary date. Some authorities believe it was in early autumn, since shepherds probably didn’t watch sheep by night in winter.
The Day of Atonement is in autumn. What if Jesus as born on that day? How symbolic!
“But when the fullness of time had come, God sent forth his Son, born of woman, born under the law, to redeem (i.e.- atone for) those who were under the law, so that we might receive adoption as sons” (Galatians 4:4-5).
@8:07: I pictured Jo stuck on a bridge, Subaru idling, waiting for Michelle …. Then realized she was doing this remotely (or at least I hope so!).
Will catch up with other comments shortly — busy time, my Christmas tree wound up as a front-porch decoration this year (!), but I like it. My front porch is very large and sheltered and elevated above the street level; just now put the lights on it, we’ll see how it looks tonight.
Been up late most nights, friend stayed until 2 a.m. a couple nights ago, was out with another friend last night at the waterfront historic downtown district where there was live music and a holiday street market still going on; we had fish and chips at the English pub that is just now reopening after taking a couple time-outs due to covid and changing ownership.
There’s a new (2024) version of “The Best Christmas Pageant Ever” out, still in theaters but can be rented ($20) on Prime.
From one review:
~ … the film endears itself by carrying its religious messages lightly, with humor, warmth, generosity. Grace tells Beth that despite what the snooty ladies of the community think, it is truer to the message of Jesus to welcome those who are not welcome anywhere else than to present a pristine pageant exactly like it was every year before. Before visiting the church, the Herdmans had never heard the Nativity story. When they want to learn more about it, there’s a nice scene in a public library, depicting it as a secular place of welcome and a resource for all who want to learn, without judgment. That is particularly welcome given some current controversies. Schneider is excellent in the story’s most complicated role, showing that Imogene is hungry for a reason to be vulnerable.
The film is smart enough to make the happy ending more thoughtful than it would be if Herdmans somehow turned into well-behaved, happy children. Instead, the Herdmans’ fresh take on the old story makes it more meaningful to everyone in the congregation. They are furious at the innkeeper and Herod and want them to be punished. This gives the Herdmans a chance to begin to identify with the victims of abuse for the first time and it gives the adults a reminder of how brave and vulnerable Mary and Joseph were. Instead of beaming down beatifically, Imogene’s Mary pats the doll portraying baby Jesus on the back to make him burp, saying that was what she had to do to take care of Gladys. The congregation begin to see Jesus as a real-life baby. And they start to understand how the responsibilities Imogene has shouldered made her so angry and untrusting. The movie is as much about what the community learns from the Herdmans as about what the Herdmans learn from them.
There’s a reason Robinson’s book is an enduring classic, shared by families over generations. It has naughty kids for fun, a loving family for sweetness, and tender moments for inspiration, all portrayed here with diligence and thoughtful appreciation. Its lessons about how kindness and inclusion benefit both the giver and the receiver are welcome, but its gentle reminder to view even the oldest and best-known story with fresh attention and connection may be even more meaningful. ~
“Pursuit of Holiness” — I just randomly came across that book in a stack of books in my bedroom. Moved it out front where I can make good use of it again 🙂
Interesting conversation came up w/a believing (though Roman Catholic) friend a few days back — on Purgatory; she was apparently not clear that I didn’t believe in that and was asking me questions about it, for which I was unprepared. Need to show some grace and find common ground in those discussions for them to be fruitful, I have found.
I just finished a wonderful historical fiction book about logging in Michigan after the Civil War. I learned so much, and it was so timely as Christmas was celebrated toward the end of the book.
The inspiring true story of Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, known as America’s Poet, and the events that inspired him to write the beloved Christmas carol I Heard the Bells.
It was a balmy 3 degrees here at 7am. It’s up in the low 20s now. We aren’t supposed to be above freezing until Friday. Also, expecting a light dusting of snow for Christmas, so maybe a somewhat white Christmas.
So happy I will be home with the family this year instead of in surgery and ICU. God is good. 🙂
Things continue to improve, I’m even getting around the house with just a cane now. 👍
I got a new exercise bike thing to exercise my legs and arms. I can peddle both at once to build strength. Working with that will help progress things.
I’m heading out for a CT scan in a bit, if everything looks good, the last drain and staples and stitches will come out when I see the Dr next Monday. Praying and hoping for that.
~ Remembering the World War I Christmas Truce: The close of 1914 brought a momentary pause in the grinding trench warfare. Carols were sung and games briefly replaced gunfire. ~
my mom and dad worked in a logging camp. He logged and worked on flumes, she helped in the kitchen. Right after they left he lookout where they moved when first married. First time she had ever been out of Venice.
dad went on to work for a mill, start his own logging business, including horse logging, ran his own saw mill, drove a log truck, lost his license when a guy ran into his logging truck and died so my mom drove the logging truck, and became a poler. Varied career.
I was able to do all of the hours of driving yesterday. Oh, not sure if I’m seeing fog or rain outside.
Just ordered another copy of the Rose Book of Bible maps, charts. I already ordered one for myself and a friend, but I showed another friend and they wanted it too. So now I ordered another for myself. I used to own two copies but I gave them away in PNG. One friend was starting a library out in the islands so I gave her the book. It is a wonderful resource.
Littles were sick so didn’t come today. One of them was worried that I would be lonely. Got a family calendar from my sister. You never know what special pictures she will put in.
Tomorrow morning at 6 I will be heading for the Sacramento airport as Clara flies to spend Christmas with her family.
Those Rose publications are very helpful, I have a few of them. … somewhere …
Watched “I Heard the Bells” tonight, worth seeing.
The Christmas tree is all lit up (warm white) on the front porch, looks cute with all the other colored lights and hanging poinsettias around it.
Looks like cousins and I will go to a Chinese restaurant on Christmas Day. It’s the only kind of food I really just don’t like, but in the past I’ve found I can order a bowl of white rice and get by with that.
But there’s not a lot open on Christmas Day and that was all cousins could find.
I had a full work day, we were having trouble with Word Press and the story I was trying to file got caught in some of that, but all was fixed.
I remember my MIL telling me about the time both her parents left to work in the logging camp, she as a cook. Their oldest child was just twelve years old! She had many younger children to look after. Logging was seasonal work here, as was mining, so some men would work in both industries.
I received my annual personal calendar this weekend. We all enjoyed discovering what family pictures were included. I appreciate that my daughter very carefully includes photos of her sibling’s family members.
We all had a laugh when my husband noted that the dates of his and my birthday were not marked as such. He was told that our daughter was sure he and I would remember our own birthday! Well, so far so good. I think he forgot that the calendar was made just for me. What a deal! Who would have ever thought such a thing would be so easy for someone to do? Another thing for which to be grateful.
We will have a busy day of cooking here. A turkey and an eye of round roast for starters. I already made some guacamole this morning. I think I will take two large pans with different foods on them that can easily slide into the oven to heat tomorrow. That will probably be better than trying to transport a bunch of bowls or casserole dishes. It won’t be a pretty presentation, but it is just me and the Three Amigos and at Batchelor Bro’s home, pretty is not a thing.
For those with ancestors who did logging, I highly suggest reading that book. It is rich with history of the industry and of delectable dishes from the kitchen. I really loved that each chapter began with quotes from Shanty Boy logging songs. I’d never heard any of those.
Your porch tree sounds lovely, DJ. It’s nice to share the beauty with all who pass by.
Have you ever had Sizzling Rice Soup at a Chinese restaurant, DJ? Or Wonton Soup? Both of those make a great meal for me. We used to have a Christmas Eve tradition of picking up Wonton Soup for the easy meal of the evening since everything else was closed. We’d do Christmas Eve service and Wonton Soup.
Thanks for the suggestions Janice. I’ve tried in the past, people will tell me “you’ll like this” but nothing so far — beyond a bowl of plain white rice. 🙂 I feel bad, as sometimes it can seem to be a slight to a restaurant, so if asked I’ll usually say it’s a strict diet / food allergy issue, something to make clear it’s nothing personal!
Trying to do a story — or get started on it anyway, it’s Christmas Eve so reaching folks will be hard and we’re probably only working a half day as it is — on a very popular waterfront brewery closing down due to pandemic residual impacts — rising costs, customer habits changed. (I understand that “young people” no longer hang out in places anymore, they’d rather do take-hour and bring things home.)
Rather surprising as this business really took off when it opened, they also feature live bands, people could bring their dogs – it was considered one of the most popular “hang out” places in town for the younger crowd.
Tonight it’s the candlelight service at church. Tomorrow it’s the Christmas rice dinner. 🙂 But looking forward to hanging out with the cousins a bit and then enjoying what’s left of the day off. “Wednesday” Christmases are challenging.
The front-porch tree works well for me this year. I have several strings of multicolored lights over the porch railing, a couple wreaths, a Star of Bethlehem … the tree is all white lights.
Dj, do you eat the fortune cookie? One restaurant we liked served slices of oranges with fortune cookies for dessert. Perhaps you could get some plain sliced oranges with the rice? That would add a bit of color.
Asian food. I used to be a white rice only eater but eventually my tastes changed and I was able to add some things. Sadly, just before I quit eating out!
Yes, the young folk seem to like take home or high end eateries. I am told the keggers are even zoomed.
We’re spending Christmas without our children for the first time ever.
Very strange.
Instead, we’re with my siblings and their families for Christmas Eve and off to spend Christmas with my 95-year-old uncle and cousins tomorrow.
I haven’t spent Christmas with my cousins since my mother died 29 years ago last Sunday.
Meanwhile, we changed the way we pray for our extended family about four months ago.
To our near-shock, one family all went to church together for the first time ever with us. We went to THEIR Episcopal church for a lovely, full children’s service with caroling.
I cannot tell you how happy that made me.
My husband has had great spiritual conversations for the last two day.
Wonderful news, Michelle. How did you change the way you prayed for them?
Our church was filled with an extended family who do not regularly attend. We know several having gone to the Christian school with them, plus then public school and various other places. One related family lives next door to the church and was very involved for years. A grandmother has her name inscribed on the advent wreath holder, so the church holds historical value for them. It was fun to have a short visit with them and to see the church filled again. I believe our pastor was startled to see so many. He was thrilled.
I am enjoying the Skylight frame my children gifted to me last year. They have all added pictures from our recent holiday gathering. I haven’t even done that yet. It is difficult for me to see the photos on the phone and eliminate and choose. I will get to it, however.
Wandering Views 
Good morning to all. We are off to a routine doctor appointment and then shopping. We will have our Christmas this weekend and expect the first out of town guests this evening.
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Good morning, everyone! We’re full of Christmas spirit here in mild, foggy Chattanooga! Glad to see AJ stirring! 🙂
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That’s Debra
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Good morning, all, and I am out of a job, just like that. It is okay, I do have other things I can do. Welcome back, the real.
mumsee
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Today is laundry day so there is that. And my brother comes up from Boise. Some snow but not much. Not expecting any snow between now and Christmas but Christmas comes anyway because we needed a Saviour.
mumsee
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Writing my Christmas gift to the extended family today and the rest of the week: Christmas through the years with photos.
What else do you get people who have everything?
Meanwhile, I’m furiously reresearching Juji Nakada–the link between the Cowmans and the Chambers duo.
I’ve got an interview lined up with his 96-year-old granddaughter on Monday. Can hardly wait. The interview IS my Christmas present! 🙂
Who is Juji? Here’s one of many posts I’ve written: https://www.michelleule.com/2021/03/02/juji/
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Good afternoon! We had a great time at Bible study this morning. I took in very nice cookbooks for the ladies to choose one each. The Bible study leader brought cupcakes and also some fashion jewelry for us to choose from, another lady brought baggies full of treats and kleenex, etc
One lady said she didn’t know to bring a gift, and we all said, “We don’t usually do this!” It was not planned. I also brought shoes that perfectly fit a lady in need of shoes.
The study was on the final chapter in James. We covered a lot of ground on prayer and righteousness that leads right into our next topical study, The Pursuit of Holiness, by Jerry Bridges.
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Pursuit of Holiness is a good study. Or at least it was when I did a gazillion years ago. 🙂
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Michelle,
Found and reading an interesting book called, “On Being a Christian, Who We Are and What We Do in Christ.” Makes me feel like I am sitting at the feet of the author once again. Know the author?
mumsee
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For Kathaleena:
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Michelle, my study group goes where the Spirit leads . . . and sometimes that means back to the oldies but goodies. We are the Wellspring Ladies. We dig deep.
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Oh, yeah, Mumsee!
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Good morning! It’s a good day for gift wrapping and baking and deciding on menus.
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We are enjoying our company.
Janice, I had to laugh at that video when the ‘girl’ in the band said that the song made her cry.
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Kathaleena, the smell of boiled cabbage permeating throughout the house, no doubt!
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We have more fog this morning than I have seen in a very long time. The temp will be in the seventies today.
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I see Gilligan moved from North Carolina to Hawai’i.
(Watch Janice’s video if you don’t know what I mean.)
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Good morning all. Things are slowly progressing, thanks to our gracious and merciful God.
I now have Physical therapy nurse in once a week, Occupational therapy nurse once a week, and the Visiting Nurses in twice a week.
Got a CT scan coming up on Monday to make sure I have no leaks or retention of fluids, surgical followup the following Monday to hopefully remove the last drain, stitches, and staples.
I’m doing my exercises and getting up every 2 hours to walk the house from living room to back porch, and back. This is for building strength and making sure the muscles don’t atrophy. I’m able to sit up and stand without help or using the walker. I’ve even been moving around some without the walker, although keeping it close by. This is encouraging, as it took 6 months to get here after the surgeries a year ago.
My wife continues to bless me with her love, help, and kindness. She continues to be a blessing from God.
I also thank all of you for your continued prayers and well wishes. It means a lot to me, and I thank the Lord for you all.
Love yas,
Allen
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Good news, the real!
mumsee
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Thanks for blessing us with the good news that God has blessed you with, Aj.
So I drove to Yuba City, about 30 miles away, to go to the xfinity store. They had raised my bill from 45 to 103 a month. I don’t do well with trying to sort out those things over the phone. We made some adjustments and found another special to bring my bill back down to 45 dollars. That simple trip saved me over 1200 dollars.. My next option was to cancel my service.
My friend Clara came over to clean last night. She spent two hours and things are looking good. She is tall so even reached up to wipe off the fan blades. We even had dinner together.
My friends are having their kitchen redone in January so will be staying here with me. so the house is ready for them.
Jo
Tomorrow I will help fill boxes for the 33 families we are taking food and gifts to from the church. Lots of needs out there.
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Great news, AJ!
Jo’s news is really good, too.
It feels nothing like Christmas today here. The weather is beautiful but warm and humid.
I have arranged with the guys who clean my roof to use their leaf blowers to clear the newest batch of leaves off the yard. We are usually done with leaves by now. Not sure which day they will be here. It will be loud, but worth it.
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I hope Dj is doing okay.
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Very fun Christmas display up there AJ!! It’s going to be a sweet one for you this year and for that we are thankful!!
I think I may have most of my gifts in a row…today was my last shopping trip and I hope I didn’t forget anyone!
I’m trying to keep it all very simple…”they” are forecasting snow for Christmas evening…that would be perfect!
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Janice – DJ is okay, just a little busy, and not coming here as often.
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Yesterday’s high was 73°, one degree short of the record. Tomorrow will be down to 34° as the low. Today is chill down day.
I did a regifting of something I received this year. I hope that is okay in God’s eyes.
Glad to know Dj is okay, Kizzie. Last time she was absent for a bit, she had Covid.
I got up early to make muffins. I have more energy to bake then than late in the day. I am thinking I may need to change my daily routine to do that on most days.
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Good morning, all. Another beautiful day here.
mumsee
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Regifting is fine. Why would you waste something if someone else may enjoy it? Just don’t regift to the one who gave it to you. My sister once did that with a plaque I had given her about sisters. I happened to open it at her house and told her I had given it to HER. She shrugged and went looking for the new one she bought (totally different) to give to me instead. One just has to laugh.
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Beautiful start to the day in the forest. Overcast making the temps warmer than yesterday. Christmas music playing and napping dogs close by.
I just need the sweet aroma of fresh baked muffins like at Janice’s home!!!
I haven’t regifted presents but I have donated some to goodwill! 😊
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Right. Re-gifting or donating an unwanted gift is better than sticking it in the closet or throwing it away.
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Wonderful teaching by Jerry Bridges on Holiness at a conference. I learned things I had never heard before.
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ok maybe Michelle knows
I am trying to pay my toll fees for going over the Bay bridge
it will not accept any of my info
okay I will admit that I got confused and put visa for name of card. But finally realized that they wanted my name. Tried three cards a nothing is working
help
jo
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Jo – Maybe consider also sending Michelle a Facebook message in case she won’t be back here soon.
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Time, like an ever-rolling stream,
Bears all its sons away;
They fly forgotten, as a dream
Dies at the opening day.
(Isaac Watts “O God, Our Help in Ages Past”)
I’m reminded of that verse a lot when it seems time is going faster than it used to. Here it is Friday again. Where did the week go?
https://wng.org/cartoons
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Good morning, all. We are discussing whether wood stoves are as environmentally green as electric heat.
mumsee
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Christmas plans have changed. Daughter has elected to not bring the children to son out law for ten days as agreed. Same thing happened last year.
mumsee
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Sorry to hear that Mumsee. 😞
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Nurses were in this morning. Incisions are healing, they took blood to run before Monday’s CT scan, things seem to be progressing as we’d hoped, thank God.
I’m up and about every 2 hours to strengthen and use my muscles. I can sit and stand on my own, even walk about a bit without the walker or cane, but only when supervised.
Everything looks good with my new, permanent colostomy stoma. It’s functioning well and looks healthy according to the nurses. My appetite is slowly improving as well.
My full time nurse Cheryl continues to be a blessing and a fantastic helper. She keeps me going, motivated, and feeling loved and well cared for. I love her dearly and thank our gracious God for such a wonderful blessing and gift. I couldn’t do this without her.
I also thank God for all of you, your prayers, and friendship. It means a lot.
Allen
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Good morning. I am trying to work up the energy to get started on projects. Trey has caroling tonight. We go to Alb tomorrow to do fun things for his birthday.
I am so glad to hear AJs updates. Healing is certainly a process. Praying that God gives you strength and encouragement.
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Thank you, AJ, for the update and the tribute to your nurse. She has done such a great job! The appreciation you show her and how you brag on her is heart-warming. You have blessed all of us over the years with keeping us together as much as it is possible to herd cats of different stripes 🙂
This morning I got to watch the livestream of the graduation ceremony son participated in as a faculty member . I thought about how Covid prevented us from attending his PhD graduation, but how God now allows me to see numerous graduations by livestream and know some grads are students he taught. We feel losses, but somehow God helps us to see the gains over time vastly outweigh the losses.
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You should have phoned me, Jo! (Or maybe you did. I haven’t looked yet).
Generally, if you don’t have a Fast Trak, you can just drive over, log in later, and pay on-line. Sometimes they’ll send you a bill in the mail.
When I got caught in such a mess on the east coast, they sent the bill to the rental car company and I reimbursed them.
It happens all the time.
Meanwhile, I’ve been out buying what I hope are the final Christmas gifts, and way too much food. But, no one will starve at our house!
Still waiting to hear if the Adorables are coming over this weekend, or when, for the annual cookie party. SOme of us head south on Monday.
I’m currently amazed to be home with the lights on.
P,G, &E sent a letter a month ago warning they were turning off our power all day today.
Yesterday, they text to say they were turning off our power between 9 and 4.
It’s almost 1 now, my husband has demonstrated the small generator works, the heater is running, and we’ve got lights and power on this computer.
Because of that deadline, however, I’ve been working like a crazy woman to get all the family writing I’m doing–as Christmas gifts–done and printed.
I finished late last night, was up this morning early to correct, and then reprint as necessary so I could get to the UPS store early–in case they were mobbed and I could get the writing put into a comb.
I’ve just returned home and the lights are still on–I was going to wrap gifts.
Maybe I’ll just read for awhile instead!
Merry Christmas.
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In other news, we’re still sorting out where we’re going to meet for my interview on Monday.
The 96-year-old-woman’s son-in-law wrote this morning, “I’m not sure where we’re going to meet. My mother-in-law had to stay home today, rather than come to our house, because she needed to witness to her Japanese gardener!”
Got to love her–which I’m sure I will.
Juji Nakada was quite a character, and apparently his granddaughter is as well!
Merry Christmas!
M
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It appears some in this area have been given a stomach bug for Christmas. I hope is stays away from us.
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Does anyone want to see the movie Homestead? It hit the theaters today.
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I thought today would be a stay home day…nope. I returned an item for husband at the UPS store, decided to drop in at Goodwill and found a wall basket and mantel clock…spent 6.00!
On to the grocery to pick up wrapping paper. Seems all the rolls I had have disappeared. Husband move crates to the loft in the garage…thinking that is where the wrap is hiding! And that stop at the store for just wrapping paper??? Left there spending 120.00!!! We have plenty of food now just like at M’s home!!
While at the store neighbor texted she had dropped off cookies. While in the produce section I grabbed pears, apples, oranges and nuts. Placed them in a sweet buttocks basket I had purchased last month and ta da…gift delivered to neighbor! And I found out the are planning to move!🥲
I hear there is a stomach bug making the rounds here as well Janice. A school in Elizabeth closed early for Christmas break due to so many fallen ill.
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Mumsee – That is so sad and unfair, for the children and for the father. Is the agreement a binding one, issued (I guess that’s the word) by the court, part of a legal custody agreement?
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We just finished planning the menu for the week of company. We will pick up so much food on our next shopping trip this weekend.
Wrapping is done except for the last gift for our daughter (still to purchase)
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We just finished planning the menu for the week of company. We will pick up so much food on our next shopping trip this weekend.
Wrapping is done except for the last gift for our daughter (still to purchase)
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Good morning, all, or soon will be. A beautiful day here if the dark of night is any indicator.
mumsee
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I’m shocked. Presents are wrapped, kids come for cookie baking tomorrow, and Christmas is here.
I actually may have time to sit down and read a book on this rainy day.
Oh, and my face is looking normal after 4 weeks of horror! (Dematologist-afflicted).
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What happened to your face, Michelle?
If anyone knows a small business owner whose business is an LLC or small corporation, please tell them that they need to look into filing a new form due by Dec. 31 so as not to face steep penalties. I told an artist friend about it last night, and she was unaware. She is very grateful. Art had sent out letters reminding his clients so that was the only reason I knew.
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Dealing with years of sun damage.
My own grandchildren were afraid of me at Thanksgiving.
🙂
M
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I wondered if that was it, Michelle. We have a once red-headed friend dealing with the mighty Moh and he describes what he looks like and it sounded similar.
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Today is the Sunday before Christmas. The last of the four Advent candles will be lit leaving only the Christ candle.
The church we attend now has a lit Advent wreath but does not make it into a ceremony of lighting with Scripture reading and perhaps a child in the attending family lighting the candle. I miss having the full ceremony.
Have a blessed church service if you are able to attend.
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A thought: No one knows the date of Jesus’ birth. 12/25 is an arbitrary date. Some authorities believe it was in early autumn, since shepherds probably didn’t watch sheep by night in winter.
The Day of Atonement is in autumn. What if Jesus as born on that day? How symbolic!
“But when the fullness of time had come, God sent forth his Son, born of woman, born under the law, to redeem (i.e.- atone for) those who were under the law, so that we might receive adoption as sons” (Galatians 4:4-5).
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Morning. Cloudy but warm already. 46 degrees at 6 am!? We might reach 60 and the remaining ice on our road may finally melt away😊
Spent my afternoon yesterday in Elizabeth. Small town Christmas amongst sweet friends is just my cup of tea! Be blessed this day y’all 🎄❣️
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Good fifty seven to you all.
mumsee
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@8:07: I pictured Jo stuck on a bridge, Subaru idling, waiting for Michelle …. Then realized she was doing this remotely (or at least I hope so!).
Will catch up with other comments shortly — busy time, my Christmas tree wound up as a front-porch decoration this year (!), but I like it. My front porch is very large and sheltered and elevated above the street level; just now put the lights on it, we’ll see how it looks tonight.
Been up late most nights, friend stayed until 2 a.m. a couple nights ago, was out with another friend last night at the waterfront historic downtown district where there was live music and a holiday street market still going on; we had fish and chips at the English pub that is just now reopening after taking a couple time-outs due to covid and changing ownership.
There’s a new (2024) version of “The Best Christmas Pageant Ever” out, still in theaters but can be rented ($20) on Prime.
From one review:
~ … the film endears itself by carrying its religious messages lightly, with humor, warmth, generosity. Grace tells Beth that despite what the snooty ladies of the community think, it is truer to the message of Jesus to welcome those who are not welcome anywhere else than to present a pristine pageant exactly like it was every year before. Before visiting the church, the Herdmans had never heard the Nativity story. When they want to learn more about it, there’s a nice scene in a public library, depicting it as a secular place of welcome and a resource for all who want to learn, without judgment. That is particularly welcome given some current controversies. Schneider is excellent in the story’s most complicated role, showing that Imogene is hungry for a reason to be vulnerable.
The film is smart enough to make the happy ending more thoughtful than it would be if Herdmans somehow turned into well-behaved, happy children. Instead, the Herdmans’ fresh take on the old story makes it more meaningful to everyone in the congregation. They are furious at the innkeeper and Herod and want them to be punished. This gives the Herdmans a chance to begin to identify with the victims of abuse for the first time and it gives the adults a reminder of how brave and vulnerable Mary and Joseph were. Instead of beaming down beatifically, Imogene’s Mary pats the doll portraying baby Jesus on the back to make him burp, saying that was what she had to do to take care of Gladys. The congregation begin to see Jesus as a real-life baby. And they start to understand how the responsibilities Imogene has shouldered made her so angry and untrusting. The movie is as much about what the community learns from the Herdmans as about what the Herdmans learn from them.
There’s a reason Robinson’s book is an enduring classic, shared by families over generations. It has naughty kids for fun, a loving family for sweetness, and tender moments for inspiration, all portrayed here with diligence and thoughtful appreciation. Its lessons about how kindness and inclusion benefit both the giver and the receiver are welcome, but its gentle reminder to view even the oldest and best-known story with fresh attention and connection may be even more meaningful. ~
https://www.rogerebert.com/reviews/the-best-christmas-pageant-ever-film-review
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“Pursuit of Holiness” — I just randomly came across that book in a stack of books in my bedroom. Moved it out front where I can make good use of it again 🙂
Interesting conversation came up w/a believing (though Roman Catholic) friend a few days back — on Purgatory; she was apparently not clear that I didn’t believe in that and was asking me questions about it, for which I was unprepared. Need to show some grace and find common ground in those discussions for them to be fruitful, I have found.
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A baby with a crazy advanced vocabulary: https://www.youtube.com/shorts/S01UOXi2wQ0
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I have never heard of a “buttocks basket” before.
?!
Might not be on the next few days, so an early Merry Christmas to all!
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Good beautiful morning to you all.
mumsee
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I just finished a wonderful historical fiction book about logging in Michigan after the Civil War. I learned so much, and it was so timely as Christmas was celebrated toward the end of the book.
Here is a link to the author and her book.
https://serenabmiller.com/books/katie-calloway/
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Just a dog and his sled. 😄
https://x.com/buitengebieden/status/1870936697040773423?t=y7S2Xe29iPCxWCpbSUpvOw&s=19
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made it to pick up my friends and back. Difficult driving at the end with rain and darkness on a back country road
today I meet my sister for a bit then bring the littles home
I have some crafts planned. Even a felt nativity
jo
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Friend recommended this on Amazon Prime ($4):
I Heard the Bells
The inspiring true story of Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, known as America’s Poet, and the events that inspired him to write the beloved Christmas carol I Heard the Bells.
https://www.amazon.com/I-Heard-Bells-Stephen-Atherholt/dp/B0CHB36XRZ/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=I+Heard+the+Bells&qid=1699937886&s=instant-video&sr=1-1
* dj
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67!
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It was a balmy 3 degrees here at 7am. It’s up in the low 20s now. We aren’t supposed to be above freezing until Friday. Also, expecting a light dusting of snow for Christmas, so maybe a somewhat white Christmas.
So happy I will be home with the family this year instead of in surgery and ICU. God is good. 🙂
Things continue to improve, I’m even getting around the house with just a cane now. 👍
I got a new exercise bike thing to exercise my legs and arms. I can peddle both at once to build strength. Working with that will help progress things.
I’m heading out for a CT scan in a bit, if everything looks good, the last drain and staples and stitches will come out when I see the Dr next Monday. Praying and hoping for that.
Again, progress, thank God.
Allen
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Excellent news!
mumsee
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Good news, AJ. Rejoicing with you.
A book review:
~ Remembering the World War I Christmas Truce: The close of 1914 brought a momentary pause in the grinding trench warfare. Carols were sung and games briefly replaced gunfire. ~
By Richard Snow
https://www.wsj.com/arts-culture/books/remembering-christmas-in-no-mans-land-13f77486?st=8UTCCz&reflink=desktopwebshare_permalink
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AJ, that is sounding like a good Christmas news story!
This morning the temp was 31° and now it’s 48°. It feels right for Christmas in the South.
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“I heard the Bells was on GAC or one channel on TV, so we watched it again. We had enjoyed it at the theater last year.
Happy to hear you are recovering, AJ!
My husband and I both had great grandparents that were cooks in logging camps at one time. Husband had a grandfather who worked in one.
We are home from having a family Christmas at a nearby ski resort. It was a fun time. Now we will enjoy a quiet Christmas.
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my mom and dad worked in a logging camp. He logged and worked on flumes, she helped in the kitchen. Right after they left he lookout where they moved when first married. First time she had ever been out of Venice.
dad went on to work for a mill, start his own logging business, including horse logging, ran his own saw mill, drove a log truck, lost his license when a guy ran into his logging truck and died so my mom drove the logging truck, and became a poler. Varied career.
mumsee
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Good news, Aj, glad to hear it.
I was able to do all of the hours of driving yesterday. Oh, not sure if I’m seeing fog or rain outside.
Just ordered another copy of the Rose Book of Bible maps, charts. I already ordered one for myself and a friend, but I showed another friend and they wanted it too. So now I ordered another for myself. I used to own two copies but I gave them away in PNG. One friend was starting a library out in the islands so I gave her the book. It is a wonderful resource.
Littles were sick so didn’t come today. One of them was worried that I would be lonely. Got a family calendar from my sister. You never know what special pictures she will put in.
Tomorrow morning at 6 I will be heading for the Sacramento airport as Clara flies to spend Christmas with her family.
Jo
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Oh, hey! 75!
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Jo – That is so sweet that one of those littles was worried about you being lonely. ❤
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Those Rose publications are very helpful, I have a few of them. … somewhere …
Watched “I Heard the Bells” tonight, worth seeing.
The Christmas tree is all lit up (warm white) on the front porch, looks cute with all the other colored lights and hanging poinsettias around it.
Looks like cousins and I will go to a Chinese restaurant on Christmas Day. It’s the only kind of food I really just don’t like, but in the past I’ve found I can order a bowl of white rice and get by with that.
But there’s not a lot open on Christmas Day and that was all cousins could find.
I had a full work day, we were having trouble with Word Press and the story I was trying to file got caught in some of that, but all was fixed.
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I remember my MIL telling me about the time both her parents left to work in the logging camp, she as a cook. Their oldest child was just twelve years old! She had many younger children to look after. Logging was seasonal work here, as was mining, so some men would work in both industries.
I received my annual personal calendar this weekend. We all enjoyed discovering what family pictures were included. I appreciate that my daughter very carefully includes photos of her sibling’s family members.
We all had a laugh when my husband noted that the dates of his and my birthday were not marked as such. He was told that our daughter was sure he and I would remember our own birthday! Well, so far so good. I think he forgot that the calendar was made just for me. What a deal! Who would have ever thought such a thing would be so easy for someone to do? Another thing for which to be grateful.
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We will have a busy day of cooking here. A turkey and an eye of round roast for starters. I already made some guacamole this morning. I think I will take two large pans with different foods on them that can easily slide into the oven to heat tomorrow. That will probably be better than trying to transport a bunch of bowls or casserole dishes. It won’t be a pretty presentation, but it is just me and the Three Amigos and at Batchelor Bro’s home, pretty is not a thing.
For those with ancestors who did logging, I highly suggest reading that book. It is rich with history of the industry and of delectable dishes from the kitchen. I really loved that each chapter began with quotes from Shanty Boy logging songs. I’d never heard any of those.
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Your porch tree sounds lovely, DJ. It’s nice to share the beauty with all who pass by.
Have you ever had Sizzling Rice Soup at a Chinese restaurant, DJ? Or Wonton Soup? Both of those make a great meal for me. We used to have a Christmas Eve tradition of picking up Wonton Soup for the easy meal of the evening since everything else was closed. We’d do Christmas Eve service and Wonton Soup.
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Thanks for the suggestions Janice. I’ve tried in the past, people will tell me “you’ll like this” but nothing so far — beyond a bowl of plain white rice. 🙂 I feel bad, as sometimes it can seem to be a slight to a restaurant, so if asked I’ll usually say it’s a strict diet / food allergy issue, something to make clear it’s nothing personal!
Trying to do a story — or get started on it anyway, it’s Christmas Eve so reaching folks will be hard and we’re probably only working a half day as it is — on a very popular waterfront brewery closing down due to pandemic residual impacts — rising costs, customer habits changed. (I understand that “young people” no longer hang out in places anymore, they’d rather do take-hour and bring things home.)
Rather surprising as this business really took off when it opened, they also feature live bands, people could bring their dogs – it was considered one of the most popular “hang out” places in town for the younger crowd.
Tonight it’s the candlelight service at church. Tomorrow it’s the Christmas rice dinner. 🙂 But looking forward to hanging out with the cousins a bit and then enjoying what’s left of the day off. “Wednesday” Christmases are challenging.
The front-porch tree works well for me this year. I have several strings of multicolored lights over the porch railing, a couple wreaths, a Star of Bethlehem … the tree is all white lights.
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Dj, do you eat the fortune cookie? One restaurant we liked served slices of oranges with fortune cookies for dessert. Perhaps you could get some plain sliced oranges with the rice? That would add a bit of color.
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Asian food. I used to be a white rice only eater but eventually my tastes changed and I was able to add some things. Sadly, just before I quit eating out!
Yes, the young folk seem to like take home or high end eateries. I am told the keggers are even zoomed.
mumsee
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Guitar or banjo?
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Excellent playing by all.
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It’s midnight in Georgia.
Merry Christmas!
I hear what seems to be fireworks. Never noticed them in the past, but maybe I am up later than usua on Christmas Eve.
Son will be gift wrapping now. He gets an A+ for procrastination. I hope he gets to bed before 1 a.m.
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We’re spending Christmas without our children for the first time ever.
Very strange.
Instead, we’re with my siblings and their families for Christmas Eve and off to spend Christmas with my 95-year-old uncle and cousins tomorrow.
I haven’t spent Christmas with my cousins since my mother died 29 years ago last Sunday.
Meanwhile, we changed the way we pray for our extended family about four months ago.
To our near-shock, one family all went to church together for the first time ever with us. We went to THEIR Episcopal church for a lovely, full children’s service with caroling.
I cannot tell you how happy that made me.
My husband has had great spiritual conversations for the last two day.
Gloria in excelsis indeed!
Merry Christmas!
M
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Wonderful news, Michelle. How did you change the way you prayed for them?
Our church was filled with an extended family who do not regularly attend. We know several having gone to the Christian school with them, plus then public school and various other places. One related family lives next door to the church and was very involved for years. A grandmother has her name inscribed on the advent wreath holder, so the church holds historical value for them. It was fun to have a short visit with them and to see the church filled again. I believe our pastor was startled to see so many. He was thrilled.
I am enjoying the Skylight frame my children gifted to me last year. They have all added pictures from our recent holiday gathering. I haven’t even done that yet. It is difficult for me to see the photos on the phone and eliminate and choose. I will get to it, however.
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There’s a new daily thread. 🙂
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Wow fun music, thanks
Merry Christmas
Jo
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