I remember the childhood verse about the days of the week. Didn't it say that Wednesday's child was full of woe? Well, Wednesdays are certainly woeful for me now. It's been three weeks ago that we lost our crazy, little dog, Roy. I miss him so much. I hope he has found someone in heaven to carry him around all the time, or another little dog to play with and run around like he and Riff did.
To be truthful, I've not felt like blogging, but for years now I've wanted to give my friends a heads up about the movie, Groundhog Day, so that's what I'm going to do. It was always one of my favorite movies. At first, I simply appreciated it for it's humor and touching love story between Bill Murray and Andy McDowell. Buy later, I began to watch it and realize that it is so much more than a funny and sweet romantic comedy...it is the story of how living our lives according to Jesus' teachings can change us not only for the better, but can impact the world around us as well.
If you've seen the movie, you know the main character, Phil, is a really cynical and beaten down by the world jerk of a guy, who happens to be a small town weatherman. It is his assignment to go with his cameraman and first time lady producer to Ponxatuny, Pennsylvania to report on the Groundhog Day Festivities, and most importantly, the prediction of the "man, rather critter, of the hour", Punxatuny Phil. Poor weatherman Phil is so bored with it all and so unhappy to be doing such a lame story, he simply brushes by everyone as he uses as little effort as possible to get through the entire ordeal and be outa there as soon as possible. Unbeknownst, however, to weatherman Phil, a blizzard is bearing down upon the little town, and he's unexpectedly stuck there for the night. Hoping to get out of there as soon as possible, he awakes the next morning in his little bed and breakfast room, only to realize that he is reliving Groundhog Day again.
I hope you've seen this movie, I catch it playing all the time. I used to have a copy of it. It is absolutely priceless how Phil handles the revelation that he is actually going to have to live this same, terrible day over and over and over again. His attempts to make it bearable are so typical of what we do with our own lives to find meaning or happiness or whatever it is that we think we are looking for. First Phil decides that since he knows everything that happens, he will get rich by stealing money and he will at least be happy because he'll be able to buy fulfillment. He also tries going into the local cafe and orders all his favorite foods to see if that will bring him happiness. And, yes, he decides to trick some of the local girls into having sex with him, thinking this will fulfill the emptiness he's feeling as he relives this day.
When Phil finally realizes that neither money, food nor sex bring him happiness as he relives each day, he decides he might as well end it all. He attempts suicide in many different ways, the funniest is driving over a cliff with the actual groundhog. But, even though it appears that he's ended his life, he awakes after each failed attempt to realize he is trapped in this same day and same place again and again and again.
Finally, Phil decides to take the focus off of himself and starts actually noticing those around him. He actually begins to help the people of this little town during this day that repeats for him over and over. He saves a little boy that falls from a tree, he changes the tire of some elderly ladies who have a flat and most heartfelt, he tries unsuccessfully to save a homeless man's life who dies on the street. Because Phil had been so callous and unfeeling, it is really heartwarming to see him learn to like, enjoy and finally love the people of this little Pennsylvania town. And because he is feeling better as each Groundhog Day rolls into the next, he even begins to feel better about himself and begins taking piano lessons to use a talent that God had apparently given him.
By the time Phil is spending his last Groundhog Day, he is the absolute hero of the whole town. He knows and is friends with everyone in the town, he is able to not only help aid his new neighbors and friends, but he can also entertain them with his newfound piano expertise. He is fulfilled and loved and apparently is fulfilling and loving to all around him. It didn't take money or meeting all his selfish needs, it took looking around and meeting the needs of others. When Phil finally understands the way to true happiness is loving and serving others, voila, he awakes the following morning to the day after Groundhog Day and continues his life with a fresh new perspective.
My hope is that we can all learn from Phil. More importantly let us learn the example of our loving savior, Jesus Christ, who came to earth from his heavenly home to show us by His example how to love and serve others.
Since I've been typing, I've actually been able to hear little doggies tummies' growling, so I best get going. I believe that today is going to be beautiful. I actually was able to hang clothes out yesterday and saw daffodils, tulips and hyacinths coming up in my garden. I am so looking forward to an early Spring, how about it, Mr. Groundhog. Have a great day, luv, Susan ps I was not at all surprised when my friend, Marla Owens, told me at a lunch back in Henderson that Groundhog Day had been one of her son, Ryan's favorite movies.
Wednesday, February 1, 2012
Thursday, January 12, 2012
I HELPED DELIVER A PUPPY
On January 21, 2007 my family gathered in Lexington to celebrate my parent's wedding anniversary, as we do every year. Their anniversary is on the 24th, but this, I believe, was a Sunday. I, however, was unable to attend because I was in Henderson watching over my little dog, Taffy, who was due to deliver her second litter of puppies. She had previously done a great job with her first litter of two in the preceding year. I, in fact, had even wanted to help her with the delivery, but was met with a frighteningly threatening growl and a sudden snapping of sharp teeth. I figured she knew what she was doing and let her deliver two healthy little male puppies, each about the size of a stick of butter. Before going to bed that night, I reached in to pat her head to tell her what a good mom she was and found myself at the kitchen sink washing the blood from my badly punctured thumb. This was something new with Taffy, that I had not previously experienced, a protective mother. Flashing back to 2007, I was going to keep my distance this time and let her handle this delivery on her own.
Rather than let her have her new litter in a birthing box, I decided she would be more comfortable on the waterbed, so I stayed in the room, yet off the bed, when I realized she was going through labor. I think I was even taking a video as she started pushing the first little puppy out. But, something didn't seem right. She pushed and pushed, and I could tell that she was beginning to tire. After the previous birthing experience, I was not wanting to stick my hand anywhere near this mama bear of a little malti-poo with the oh so sharp teeth. I did however notice a change in her demeanor when I took a step closer to the bed, she mostly relaxed, so I reached in and helped deliver the puppy. He was breach and his entire body was out except for his head. It took a quick effort to reach in and push the little head out. Voila, we had our first boy of the second litter.
Taffy took over from there and I backed away once again as she delivered a girl and another boy. I called my family to share the news of this second litter. Because it was during the NFL playoff games and I had the sports section of the paper strewn about the top of the bed, I began labeling the newborns with their temporary litter names. These are their names up til they get to their new owners and their new names. I gave the first the name of Brady, as we were Patriots fans and their quarterback was Tom Brady. I gave the name Bree to the little girl ala Drew Brees and the last was Bear, for the Chicago Bears.
I've always tried to emulate my Aunt Linda when I have puppies to share. It's always ,"Who needs a puppy?" At that time I was certain of who needed these puppies and gave Cry Baby Bree to my Aunt Carol, who renamed her Sassy. I gave Bear to my dear friend, Jerri, who calls him Baxter and my daughter, Christina, received Brady, who she then named Roy G. Biv. As a family, we weren't crazy about the name Roy, as that's my dad's name, but I knew his name represented the rainbow, so Roy, it was.
Christina was such a good mommy for little Roy, I was so impressed with how responsible my little girl had become. However, when it was time for Taffy's third litter, she thought another puppy was just what she and Roy needed. So, after the third litter arrived, Christina and Roy got Riff. All seemed right with the world.
At the end of 2007, Mark and I were already making our move to Georgetown. I recall Christina bringing Riff and Roy over in their cute little matching blue coats. We actually celebrated our first Christmas here in Georgetown with Christina and Dustin, Riff and Roy, and Taffy and Pepper. It was so good to be back in Central Kentucky. I began babysitting for Riff and Roy when Christina was away at conferences. They loved the freedom of the big yard and being able to play with their mom and dad. It wasn't long until Christina's move from Lexington to Frankfort to an upstairs apartment made my taking Riff and Roy a no brainer.
I have enjoyed my family of dogs, even with the addition of Pudge over a year ago. Roy has always been the most vocal. He is the most talkingest dog I have ever been around. And he has always wanted the most attention. He hardly ever fails to let me know he is right there at my feet wanting to be picked up, but I can never deny him, he's just that cute.
And that's why I'm having a hard time today......Roy is gone. I dropped the ball and didn't get him put away before Mark drove up the driveway yesterday. I believe he was gone before I even got to the place where he was lying by the driveway. He has never been so silent. Thank you, God, for the opportunity to have this crazy little dog in my life and I hope he gets plenty of loving in heaven. luv, Susan
Rather than let her have her new litter in a birthing box, I decided she would be more comfortable on the waterbed, so I stayed in the room, yet off the bed, when I realized she was going through labor. I think I was even taking a video as she started pushing the first little puppy out. But, something didn't seem right. She pushed and pushed, and I could tell that she was beginning to tire. After the previous birthing experience, I was not wanting to stick my hand anywhere near this mama bear of a little malti-poo with the oh so sharp teeth. I did however notice a change in her demeanor when I took a step closer to the bed, she mostly relaxed, so I reached in and helped deliver the puppy. He was breach and his entire body was out except for his head. It took a quick effort to reach in and push the little head out. Voila, we had our first boy of the second litter.
Taffy took over from there and I backed away once again as she delivered a girl and another boy. I called my family to share the news of this second litter. Because it was during the NFL playoff games and I had the sports section of the paper strewn about the top of the bed, I began labeling the newborns with their temporary litter names. These are their names up til they get to their new owners and their new names. I gave the first the name of Brady, as we were Patriots fans and their quarterback was Tom Brady. I gave the name Bree to the little girl ala Drew Brees and the last was Bear, for the Chicago Bears.
I've always tried to emulate my Aunt Linda when I have puppies to share. It's always ,"Who needs a puppy?" At that time I was certain of who needed these puppies and gave Cry Baby Bree to my Aunt Carol, who renamed her Sassy. I gave Bear to my dear friend, Jerri, who calls him Baxter and my daughter, Christina, received Brady, who she then named Roy G. Biv. As a family, we weren't crazy about the name Roy, as that's my dad's name, but I knew his name represented the rainbow, so Roy, it was.
Christina was such a good mommy for little Roy, I was so impressed with how responsible my little girl had become. However, when it was time for Taffy's third litter, she thought another puppy was just what she and Roy needed. So, after the third litter arrived, Christina and Roy got Riff. All seemed right with the world.
At the end of 2007, Mark and I were already making our move to Georgetown. I recall Christina bringing Riff and Roy over in their cute little matching blue coats. We actually celebrated our first Christmas here in Georgetown with Christina and Dustin, Riff and Roy, and Taffy and Pepper. It was so good to be back in Central Kentucky. I began babysitting for Riff and Roy when Christina was away at conferences. They loved the freedom of the big yard and being able to play with their mom and dad. It wasn't long until Christina's move from Lexington to Frankfort to an upstairs apartment made my taking Riff and Roy a no brainer.
I have enjoyed my family of dogs, even with the addition of Pudge over a year ago. Roy has always been the most vocal. He is the most talkingest dog I have ever been around. And he has always wanted the most attention. He hardly ever fails to let me know he is right there at my feet wanting to be picked up, but I can never deny him, he's just that cute.
And that's why I'm having a hard time today......Roy is gone. I dropped the ball and didn't get him put away before Mark drove up the driveway yesterday. I believe he was gone before I even got to the place where he was lying by the driveway. He has never been so silent. Thank you, God, for the opportunity to have this crazy little dog in my life and I hope he gets plenty of loving in heaven. luv, Susan
Tuesday, January 10, 2012
FEELING BETTER ?
I've been sick all year. I awoke New Year's Day with, what I thought was, a mild case of the sniffles. I asked everyone at church to please keep their distance from me. I took whatever cold remedies I found at the house and Mark agreed to bring me home stronger medication on Monday. Well, evidently, waiting a day to get stronger meds was the wrong decision. After one more day of thinking I could get over my symptoms with over the counter relief, I was hit hard later in the week with the realization that if I did not drag myself in to see the doctor, there was a good chance I might die. Even though my regular doctor was out of the office, I made an appointment to see someone at their office and I got what is commonly referred to as a Z-pac. I had heard good things about this concoction and had high hopes I would be back to myself in no time.
After five days of taking my antibiotics, I have experienced some improvement. I am happy to report that I am no longer coughing up pieces of, what appeared to be, my lungs. I no longer feel a constant river raging down my sinuses and I am actually beginning to believe I will recover. I'm just not bouncing around like I had hoped I would after completion of my Z-pac.
But, life does go on. So far during 2012, I have been able to see one of the year's best movies, in my opinion. The first time I heard about the movie, Warhorse, I knew it would be awesome. It had previously been highlighted as a stage play in London on Sunday Morning on CBS, a story about a boy and his horse. Through unbeknownst circumstances to the boy, the horse is transported into cavalry duty during a war. The boy joins the war effort and proceeds into battles to find the horse. War rages, lives are lost, yet there is the possibility of a reconciliation of our young hero and his four legged friend. This scenario was previously played out in the 1958 Disney movie, Tonka, which is the embellished, I'm sure, historical account of the lone US Cavalry survivor of the Battle of Little Big Horn, also known as Custer's Last Stand. During this Indian battle, all members of the US Cavalry were killed, save for one horse, known as, I was told, Comanche. I must have seen this movie when I was around seven or eight, I'm not sure. But it has stuck with me for nearly fifty years and seeing the story again unfold, this time against the backdrop of World War I, was astounding. I'm still trying to view Tonka again, but am so thankful to have been able to see Warhorse.
If you're following sports, you already know that Tim Tebow, after a six game, highly unlikely, winning streak, followed by three disappointing losses has been redeemed in the playoffs with a, do I dare say "miraculous" overtime 11-second touchdown drive, to knock off the highly touted Pittsburgh Steelers. Although I had previously been a lifelong fan of the Steelers ( I love Terry Bradshaw. ), I will not follow or root for a team that is led by a quarterback whose morals and character are questionable. Needless to say, I was happy and thrilled to see Tim Tebow and his Denver Bronco's survive and advance Sunday night.
On a personal note, I have learned that a chapter in the lives of my Henderson friends, Marla and Randy Owens, has come to a close. Their son, Ryan, collapsed and died on the football practice field behind Henderson County High School in July of 2006. They were devastated and wanted desperately to know what happened in the minutes before Ryan's death. As the school, coaches and administrators clammed up and circled their wagons, so to speak, they felt the only way to get the answers to their questions was to sue those involved. As a friend, I had advised against the lawsuit, giving Randy the Bible verse Romans 14:19 which states, "Let us therefore make every effort to do what leads to peace and mutual edification." I was led at that time to do all that I could to attempt a reconciliation between my friends and the school system. Randy and Marla had been the most loved and respected supporters of the school and football program right up until Ryan's death. My efforts for reconciliation fell short and at that time, Mark and I were blessed to be able to relocate to Central Kentucky where all my immediate family lives. We have been so happy here. I have anyway, you might want to check with Mark. It was hard for him to leave the Green River and his Henderson friends. Anyway, I saw on the news and read the reports in the paper that the lawsuit has been settled, something Randy said would never happen, but after five years of living with Ryan's death everyday, I know, Randy and Marla needed to move on. I pray for God's peace and comfort to enfold them and their family all the days of their lives.
My doggies and I are really getting cabin fever throughout this illness and colder weather. After a few days of springlike conditions, we are definitely ready for an early spring. Groundhog, please deliver for us.
I hope you are enjoying 2012 and have a great day, luv, Susan
After five days of taking my antibiotics, I have experienced some improvement. I am happy to report that I am no longer coughing up pieces of, what appeared to be, my lungs. I no longer feel a constant river raging down my sinuses and I am actually beginning to believe I will recover. I'm just not bouncing around like I had hoped I would after completion of my Z-pac.
But, life does go on. So far during 2012, I have been able to see one of the year's best movies, in my opinion. The first time I heard about the movie, Warhorse, I knew it would be awesome. It had previously been highlighted as a stage play in London on Sunday Morning on CBS, a story about a boy and his horse. Through unbeknownst circumstances to the boy, the horse is transported into cavalry duty during a war. The boy joins the war effort and proceeds into battles to find the horse. War rages, lives are lost, yet there is the possibility of a reconciliation of our young hero and his four legged friend. This scenario was previously played out in the 1958 Disney movie, Tonka, which is the embellished, I'm sure, historical account of the lone US Cavalry survivor of the Battle of Little Big Horn, also known as Custer's Last Stand. During this Indian battle, all members of the US Cavalry were killed, save for one horse, known as, I was told, Comanche. I must have seen this movie when I was around seven or eight, I'm not sure. But it has stuck with me for nearly fifty years and seeing the story again unfold, this time against the backdrop of World War I, was astounding. I'm still trying to view Tonka again, but am so thankful to have been able to see Warhorse.
If you're following sports, you already know that Tim Tebow, after a six game, highly unlikely, winning streak, followed by three disappointing losses has been redeemed in the playoffs with a, do I dare say "miraculous" overtime 11-second touchdown drive, to knock off the highly touted Pittsburgh Steelers. Although I had previously been a lifelong fan of the Steelers ( I love Terry Bradshaw. ), I will not follow or root for a team that is led by a quarterback whose morals and character are questionable. Needless to say, I was happy and thrilled to see Tim Tebow and his Denver Bronco's survive and advance Sunday night.
On a personal note, I have learned that a chapter in the lives of my Henderson friends, Marla and Randy Owens, has come to a close. Their son, Ryan, collapsed and died on the football practice field behind Henderson County High School in July of 2006. They were devastated and wanted desperately to know what happened in the minutes before Ryan's death. As the school, coaches and administrators clammed up and circled their wagons, so to speak, they felt the only way to get the answers to their questions was to sue those involved. As a friend, I had advised against the lawsuit, giving Randy the Bible verse Romans 14:19 which states, "Let us therefore make every effort to do what leads to peace and mutual edification." I was led at that time to do all that I could to attempt a reconciliation between my friends and the school system. Randy and Marla had been the most loved and respected supporters of the school and football program right up until Ryan's death. My efforts for reconciliation fell short and at that time, Mark and I were blessed to be able to relocate to Central Kentucky where all my immediate family lives. We have been so happy here. I have anyway, you might want to check with Mark. It was hard for him to leave the Green River and his Henderson friends. Anyway, I saw on the news and read the reports in the paper that the lawsuit has been settled, something Randy said would never happen, but after five years of living with Ryan's death everyday, I know, Randy and Marla needed to move on. I pray for God's peace and comfort to enfold them and their family all the days of their lives.
My doggies and I are really getting cabin fever throughout this illness and colder weather. After a few days of springlike conditions, we are definitely ready for an early spring. Groundhog, please deliver for us.
I hope you are enjoying 2012 and have a great day, luv, Susan
Thursday, December 29, 2011
THINKING AHEAD
I have got an early jump on Christmas for next year. Yep, got my cards, some new gift tags, a new Christmas CD, and even a new orchid colored table top tree. Am I the same person who likes simple decorations for the Christmas season? Well, yes, but you'll just have to come see this orchid Christmas tree when it's fully decorated. I'm sorry, I am apparently still the seven year old girl who fell in love with this color many years ago and when I saw the tree at Kohl's yesterday, I couldn't leave the store without it.
Actually, I have two trees to decorate for next year, in addition to the tree that serves as our "Christmas Tree" downstairs in the great room. I hadn't even dragged that tree out this year, when my mom called to say that they were coming for a visit to see my tree and decorations. Well, I got it dragged out of the back room with the lights still on it from previous years, but that was it. It all worked out, however, as my mom offered to help me decorate it. That turned out to be a lot of fun, putting on the ornaments that she and I had got for the kids over the years. I did have a bit of a time super-gluing the right rung back on the Lego Santa's sleigh that I got Dustin when he was around eight. Apparently, superglue does better at gluing plastic to fingers than to other plastic. But, back to the trees. I'll have the orchid tree and another little three foot tree that was the top of a tree that was headed to the dump. I salvaged it and turned all the lower branches into greenery for my deck and then Mark put the stand on the bottom of the top portion, and voila, it looks like a perfectly fine little tree. I never found the time to decorate it, but I have so many decorations from past years of "after Christmas" shopping, it shouldn't be a problem to have them both decorated for Christmas 2012.
I will use today to get caught up on cleaning and laundry that was put off during the holiday festivities. I never could figure out how to do all the festive decorating and additional Christmas shopping, wrapping, planning and cooking, and still get all the routine stuff done. Now is the time to catch up.
Pudge has not been feeling himself these past weeks. He's actually been dragging his tail around. The malti-poos always have their long, luxurious tails curled up over their backs, so this has been especially troubling to see him with his tail drooping behind him. It seems to be sore at a certain spot, but we haven't been able to determine what the problem is. I guess if it persists, we'll be going to the vet to have it checked out.
And, speaking of dogs, it appears they are needing some attention or they have merely spotted some deer out the window. There were four standing on the hill just outside our window earlier, so not sure about the reason for the current disturbance. We're experiencing a dry and very frigid morning here after making the record books for the wettest year on record earlier in the week. I expect I'll be staying warm inside today while I get caught up on housework.
I hope you are enjoying the closing days of 2011. I expect to be seeing and hearing a lot about this past year as we begin our count down to the new year. Stay safe and have a great day, luv, Susan
Actually, I have two trees to decorate for next year, in addition to the tree that serves as our "Christmas Tree" downstairs in the great room. I hadn't even dragged that tree out this year, when my mom called to say that they were coming for a visit to see my tree and decorations. Well, I got it dragged out of the back room with the lights still on it from previous years, but that was it. It all worked out, however, as my mom offered to help me decorate it. That turned out to be a lot of fun, putting on the ornaments that she and I had got for the kids over the years. I did have a bit of a time super-gluing the right rung back on the Lego Santa's sleigh that I got Dustin when he was around eight. Apparently, superglue does better at gluing plastic to fingers than to other plastic. But, back to the trees. I'll have the orchid tree and another little three foot tree that was the top of a tree that was headed to the dump. I salvaged it and turned all the lower branches into greenery for my deck and then Mark put the stand on the bottom of the top portion, and voila, it looks like a perfectly fine little tree. I never found the time to decorate it, but I have so many decorations from past years of "after Christmas" shopping, it shouldn't be a problem to have them both decorated for Christmas 2012.
I will use today to get caught up on cleaning and laundry that was put off during the holiday festivities. I never could figure out how to do all the festive decorating and additional Christmas shopping, wrapping, planning and cooking, and still get all the routine stuff done. Now is the time to catch up.
Pudge has not been feeling himself these past weeks. He's actually been dragging his tail around. The malti-poos always have their long, luxurious tails curled up over their backs, so this has been especially troubling to see him with his tail drooping behind him. It seems to be sore at a certain spot, but we haven't been able to determine what the problem is. I guess if it persists, we'll be going to the vet to have it checked out.
And, speaking of dogs, it appears they are needing some attention or they have merely spotted some deer out the window. There were four standing on the hill just outside our window earlier, so not sure about the reason for the current disturbance. We're experiencing a dry and very frigid morning here after making the record books for the wettest year on record earlier in the week. I expect I'll be staying warm inside today while I get caught up on housework.
I hope you are enjoying the closing days of 2011. I expect to be seeing and hearing a lot about this past year as we begin our count down to the new year. Stay safe and have a great day, luv, Susan
Monday, December 26, 2011
Remembering Christmas Everyday of the Year
Wow, Christmas yesterday was awesome. We three Six sisters had family at each of our homes over the past couple days. Kathy had a wonderful Christmas Eve gathering and Pam had us over Christmas day. It was wonderful, I don't know how she does it. Because I had Thanksgiving at my house, I was able to slide by for those couple days with just having my own kids over and keeping it really low key. It was nice having Dustin and Christina and Joe here at the house opening presents together. Once kids get to be adults and have their own homes, jobs, lives, etc., you never know for sure when you'll be able to recreate that together time that was simply taken for granted when they were under your own roof. Anyway, Mark and I were blessed this year to get to visit his family in Florida after Thanksgiving and then celebrate with my family here in Central Kentucky, as well as our own kids, in our own house. We were truly blessed.
I hope you had a similar experience for your holiday season. It was especially special on Christmas morning hearing our young minister, Andy, remind us of the whole reason of the season. With readings from Genesis, Isaiah, Luke and Matthew we were able to hear of God's plan for the salvation of His world, the simple introduction of His word as it became flesh and came to us into a lowly stable in Bethlehem and the worldwide rejoicing and celebrating that followed His birth and takes place each and every year to allow us to express our unending gratitude for His love that he bestows on us daily. Following up each reading from the Bible with Christmas carols of miraculous birth, worshiping kings and shepherds and expressing our faith and adoration is one of my favorite expressions at Christmas. My wish for each of us is that we can keep that spirit of celebration and gratitude each day of our lives and always remember how fortunate we are to have a God who lavished us with the gift that keeps on giving every day of our lives, our lord and savior, Jesus Christ, our king.
Love to all and Merry Christmas. Stay safe and have a great day, Susan
I hope you had a similar experience for your holiday season. It was especially special on Christmas morning hearing our young minister, Andy, remind us of the whole reason of the season. With readings from Genesis, Isaiah, Luke and Matthew we were able to hear of God's plan for the salvation of His world, the simple introduction of His word as it became flesh and came to us into a lowly stable in Bethlehem and the worldwide rejoicing and celebrating that followed His birth and takes place each and every year to allow us to express our unending gratitude for His love that he bestows on us daily. Following up each reading from the Bible with Christmas carols of miraculous birth, worshiping kings and shepherds and expressing our faith and adoration is one of my favorite expressions at Christmas. My wish for each of us is that we can keep that spirit of celebration and gratitude each day of our lives and always remember how fortunate we are to have a God who lavished us with the gift that keeps on giving every day of our lives, our lord and savior, Jesus Christ, our king.
Love to all and Merry Christmas. Stay safe and have a great day, Susan
Tuesday, December 13, 2011
FUN IN THE FLORIDA SUN
Previously, I posted that the weeks following Thanksgiving had been a blur. Let me dwell a bit on what transpired during those days.
Thanksgiving was wonderful here in Central Kentucky with the majority of my family in attendance. The following day we turned our attention to Mark's side of the family, and for the past several years, we've made the trek to Florida to visit his folks and his baby brother and his family. It's wonderful having the opportunity to not only spend time with family, but also to enjoy the beautiful, balmy weather of the Sunshine State. Thankfully, I'm able to leave Riff and Roy with a very loving friend who cares for them while we're away and Taffy stays with her grandpa Doug and grandma Kathy, so to speak. Pudge and Pepper get to take the trip down south with us.
This year was particularly special because Christina and Joe had actually celebrated Thanksgiving day with the Libby clan at baby brother Scott's house. This is a big family gathering for Scott's wife, Judy and all her clan. Mom and Dad Libby, brother Jeffrey, from NYC and the rest of the Libby's are outnumbered by Judy's Spanish speaking family, but I hear it's a really festive and fun time for all.
Mark and I arrive Saturday and we get to have another Thanksgiving meal with Mom and Dad, Scott, Judy and their three children, Christina, Joe and brother Jeffrey that evening. We are all amazed that Judy actually can put another meal together after entertaining and feeding over thirty just a couple days earlier. We are truly blessed to have our families to celebrate with and be thankful for over the Thanksgiving holiday. Mark and I are then grateful for the following week when we have the opportunity to spend precious time with Mark's mom and dad. We especially enjoy getting caught up with family stories and reviewing family pictures. Mark gets a big kick out of taking care of his Dad's to do list, which usually has him accomplishing outdoor tasks in the yard. Pruning lemon, grapefruit and orange trees in December is not a bad gig.
In addition to spending time with mom and dad, I am able to forget about the frigid weather left behind in Kentucky and take Pudge and Pepper on many long walks through the rural Florida neighborhood of Jupiter farms. We enjoy seeing all the beautiful homes and the diverse array of dogs that greet us from their side of the many fenced and gated yards. I was especially tickled this year to even see a huge, and I mean huge, potbellied pig napping in the sun, just inside a neighbor's fence. We also saw an array of other animals, birds and especially horses. But mostly, it's lots and lots of dogs from little chihuahuas to great danes. Many have their own little signs of warning, especially the Rottweiler's, that state, "We can get to the gate in 8.3 seconds, can you?" In other words, don't even try to come in the gate.
But, alas, after five days of Florida weather and relaxing family time, it's time to head back north to the frigid weather and hectic holiday preparations. Talk about switching gears. And did I mention that while in Florida I watched the Kentucky
Wildcats beat the Tennessee Volunteers for the first time after a 26 year losing streak against them. The Libby family thinks I'm weird for hooping and hollering over a silly football game. Ya gotta love 'em, they don't have a clue about being part of the Big Blue Nation, but they're learning.
Again, I hope you enjoyed as wonderful a time with family over the holidays as we have. Back in Kentucky, after our first real cold spell and even some snow flurries here and there, we are actually going to get back to about sixty this week. If I have the time, I'll try to work in a walk or two. However, I have to get back to preparations for this most special day of the year that is a mere twelve days away. And, if you get the chance, check into what Tim Tebow has been up to this past week. I had to laugh when I read that they're actually calling him the "Mile High Messiah" after his many comeback victories. Denver definitely has something to celebrate. May we all look towards celebrating the birth of our messiah, Jesus Christ these coming days. Take care, stay safe, luv, Susan
Thanksgiving was wonderful here in Central Kentucky with the majority of my family in attendance. The following day we turned our attention to Mark's side of the family, and for the past several years, we've made the trek to Florida to visit his folks and his baby brother and his family. It's wonderful having the opportunity to not only spend time with family, but also to enjoy the beautiful, balmy weather of the Sunshine State. Thankfully, I'm able to leave Riff and Roy with a very loving friend who cares for them while we're away and Taffy stays with her grandpa Doug and grandma Kathy, so to speak. Pudge and Pepper get to take the trip down south with us.
This year was particularly special because Christina and Joe had actually celebrated Thanksgiving day with the Libby clan at baby brother Scott's house. This is a big family gathering for Scott's wife, Judy and all her clan. Mom and Dad Libby, brother Jeffrey, from NYC and the rest of the Libby's are outnumbered by Judy's Spanish speaking family, but I hear it's a really festive and fun time for all.
Mark and I arrive Saturday and we get to have another Thanksgiving meal with Mom and Dad, Scott, Judy and their three children, Christina, Joe and brother Jeffrey that evening. We are all amazed that Judy actually can put another meal together after entertaining and feeding over thirty just a couple days earlier. We are truly blessed to have our families to celebrate with and be thankful for over the Thanksgiving holiday. Mark and I are then grateful for the following week when we have the opportunity to spend precious time with Mark's mom and dad. We especially enjoy getting caught up with family stories and reviewing family pictures. Mark gets a big kick out of taking care of his Dad's to do list, which usually has him accomplishing outdoor tasks in the yard. Pruning lemon, grapefruit and orange trees in December is not a bad gig.
In addition to spending time with mom and dad, I am able to forget about the frigid weather left behind in Kentucky and take Pudge and Pepper on many long walks through the rural Florida neighborhood of Jupiter farms. We enjoy seeing all the beautiful homes and the diverse array of dogs that greet us from their side of the many fenced and gated yards. I was especially tickled this year to even see a huge, and I mean huge, potbellied pig napping in the sun, just inside a neighbor's fence. We also saw an array of other animals, birds and especially horses. But mostly, it's lots and lots of dogs from little chihuahuas to great danes. Many have their own little signs of warning, especially the Rottweiler's, that state, "We can get to the gate in 8.3 seconds, can you?" In other words, don't even try to come in the gate.
But, alas, after five days of Florida weather and relaxing family time, it's time to head back north to the frigid weather and hectic holiday preparations. Talk about switching gears. And did I mention that while in Florida I watched the Kentucky
Wildcats beat the Tennessee Volunteers for the first time after a 26 year losing streak against them. The Libby family thinks I'm weird for hooping and hollering over a silly football game. Ya gotta love 'em, they don't have a clue about being part of the Big Blue Nation, but they're learning.
Again, I hope you enjoyed as wonderful a time with family over the holidays as we have. Back in Kentucky, after our first real cold spell and even some snow flurries here and there, we are actually going to get back to about sixty this week. If I have the time, I'll try to work in a walk or two. However, I have to get back to preparations for this most special day of the year that is a mere twelve days away. And, if you get the chance, check into what Tim Tebow has been up to this past week. I had to laugh when I read that they're actually calling him the "Mile High Messiah" after his many comeback victories. Denver definitely has something to celebrate. May we all look towards celebrating the birth of our messiah, Jesus Christ these coming days. Take care, stay safe, luv, Susan
Saturday, December 10, 2011
IT'S BEGINNING TO LOOK A LOT LIKE CHRISTMAS
Happy Holidays! We are sure smack dab in the middle of them now. I hope you had a really wonderful Thanksgiving with family and lots of turkey and the fixings. We sure did here. Most of the family was here, this is my fourth year to host the festivities. We were missing Christina and Joe and our family's only great grandchild, Alex, but other than that, the entire Six clan was here for our annual gathering for giving thanks for our many blessings.
I'm not sure about anyone else, but since Thanksgiving, everything has been a bit of a blur. I'd love to say that all the cleaning, decorating and shopping has been done, but that is not the case. I've got cards out to address and outdoor decorations have been taken out of boxes and contemplated, but not completed in any sense of the word. Actually, I started putting up greenery and lights on the railing of the deck, only to realize that I had been bunching them too much, so I'll need to redo them today.
I'm happy with the simplest of decorations; a multi-colored lit tree, outdoor greenery and white lights and several indoor lights and nativities will do just fine. However, I still can't seem to get the hang of getting things done in a timely manner, so I'm always in a rush it seems, hence the redoing of the outdoor lights.
My number one concern as December arrives is making sure that I have enough cards to send out to friends and family. I'm a stickler when it comes to my cards. They must have the manger scene complete with baby Jesus and all the animals. I was so thankful when I found the cards that I purchased at the end of last Christmas season, in my Christmas closet. I imagine I will be addressing cards later today while I watch Kentucky and Indiana tip off. I only hope that by then I also have a deck adorned with beautifully lit holiday greenery. We'll see. I would like to add that it was wonderful being in Rupp Arena this Thursday to be part of the record breaking attendance for the UK women's basketball game. It was so awesome seeing the arena rocking as the Hoops Squad of UK knocked off the #6 ranked Duke Blue Devils.
I actually bought the dogs some Santa suits that were on sale last year, can't imagine actually finding the time to chase them down and put them on all five of the doggies, let alone getting a picture, but we'll see how it goes. I don't think I have a family picture to put in cards this year since Christina wasn't in Maine for our family vacation or at the Thanksgiving dinner. Next year I'll try to remember we need everyone of us Libby's together for a family picture. With facebook and email, I think most everyone has seen pictures of us at some point during the year.
I've been enjoying wonderful Christmas music on a Dish Network music station called the Christmas Message. It's wonderful to just change the channel and have beautiful Christmas music while getting things done. CMT will also have many country holiday videos to enjoy if you can catch them at the right time.
This is such a special time of year and I hope that you are enjoying all of your family Christmas traditions. As long as we are healthy and together and able to celebrate the miraculous birth of God's greatest gift to us is all that is truly important this season.
The doggies and I won't be walking today cause it has really gotten cold this week, frost on everything this morning. But, we will be spending time outdoors decorating and hopefully, the sun will keep us from freezing. In addition to seeing Kentucky basketball, it will be fun to catch Tim Tebow and his Broncos. He has really garnered a lot of attention winning five of his last six games, usually coming back late in the game. So many of the sportscasters and professional athletes hardly know what to make of him and his amazing faith in God. I just pray that he remains true to himself and continues to let God use him to spread the good news of Jesus Christ.
And, if you've had the chance to see the Charlie Brown Christmas Story, you'll remember from Linus that the true meaning of Christmas can be found in the book of Luke, chapter 2, "..she gave birth to her firstborn son and wrapped him in swaddling clothes and laid him in a manger..." That's what it's all about, Charlie Brown.
COME, LET US ADORE HIM !
Have a great day, luv, Susan
I'm not sure about anyone else, but since Thanksgiving, everything has been a bit of a blur. I'd love to say that all the cleaning, decorating and shopping has been done, but that is not the case. I've got cards out to address and outdoor decorations have been taken out of boxes and contemplated, but not completed in any sense of the word. Actually, I started putting up greenery and lights on the railing of the deck, only to realize that I had been bunching them too much, so I'll need to redo them today.
I'm happy with the simplest of decorations; a multi-colored lit tree, outdoor greenery and white lights and several indoor lights and nativities will do just fine. However, I still can't seem to get the hang of getting things done in a timely manner, so I'm always in a rush it seems, hence the redoing of the outdoor lights.
My number one concern as December arrives is making sure that I have enough cards to send out to friends and family. I'm a stickler when it comes to my cards. They must have the manger scene complete with baby Jesus and all the animals. I was so thankful when I found the cards that I purchased at the end of last Christmas season, in my Christmas closet. I imagine I will be addressing cards later today while I watch Kentucky and Indiana tip off. I only hope that by then I also have a deck adorned with beautifully lit holiday greenery. We'll see. I would like to add that it was wonderful being in Rupp Arena this Thursday to be part of the record breaking attendance for the UK women's basketball game. It was so awesome seeing the arena rocking as the Hoops Squad of UK knocked off the #6 ranked Duke Blue Devils.
I actually bought the dogs some Santa suits that were on sale last year, can't imagine actually finding the time to chase them down and put them on all five of the doggies, let alone getting a picture, but we'll see how it goes. I don't think I have a family picture to put in cards this year since Christina wasn't in Maine for our family vacation or at the Thanksgiving dinner. Next year I'll try to remember we need everyone of us Libby's together for a family picture. With facebook and email, I think most everyone has seen pictures of us at some point during the year.
I've been enjoying wonderful Christmas music on a Dish Network music station called the Christmas Message. It's wonderful to just change the channel and have beautiful Christmas music while getting things done. CMT will also have many country holiday videos to enjoy if you can catch them at the right time.
This is such a special time of year and I hope that you are enjoying all of your family Christmas traditions. As long as we are healthy and together and able to celebrate the miraculous birth of God's greatest gift to us is all that is truly important this season.
The doggies and I won't be walking today cause it has really gotten cold this week, frost on everything this morning. But, we will be spending time outdoors decorating and hopefully, the sun will keep us from freezing. In addition to seeing Kentucky basketball, it will be fun to catch Tim Tebow and his Broncos. He has really garnered a lot of attention winning five of his last six games, usually coming back late in the game. So many of the sportscasters and professional athletes hardly know what to make of him and his amazing faith in God. I just pray that he remains true to himself and continues to let God use him to spread the good news of Jesus Christ.
And, if you've had the chance to see the Charlie Brown Christmas Story, you'll remember from Linus that the true meaning of Christmas can be found in the book of Luke, chapter 2, "..she gave birth to her firstborn son and wrapped him in swaddling clothes and laid him in a manger..." That's what it's all about, Charlie Brown.
COME, LET US ADORE HIM !
Have a great day, luv, Susan
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