Stuff

I think I'm losing my ability to find interest in the world around me.  (And I find that a tad scary / disappointing.  I never want to lose my observational powers.)  Or maybe this blog is just winding its way down, coming to an end.  I seem to be running out of worthwhile things to say.

In any event:  The Husband was granted an extra day off this week - following the release of a big project at work.  Without the pressure to get up and get going, we (and I really mean me) slept in until 7:30 this morning.  I'm such a morning person it's difficult to not be up with the sun. (No walk for me this morning or for a while, I think I'm headed back into the detested boot. My foot is worse instead of better.  Time to get seriously serious.)

Oops.

Headed up to the eye doctor's office.  I'm so glad he's close.  The Husband tried to put on his computer glasses last night - with this result.  We figured it'd be a quick in-and-out-order-a-replacement-part trip.  It appears he's had these particular glasses so long they are now obsolete!  It took some time (and a couple giggle-fits (mirrors can provoke giggle-fits) on the part of The Husband) to choose some suitable frames (we're both loathe to spend money) and get them ordered. I'm wondering how he'll work for the next week or so (12-15 hours a day at his computer) without his glasses?  

Likely the last of the season's roses.

Spent some time outside - I was working on the wood-fill around our paint-less door frame.  He was puttering: spraying out some leaf-filled gutters (and getting wind-blown spray back in the face), filling a trash barrel with leaves, measuring some window-wells for covers.  'Twas a beautiful day for being outside (blusteriness aside).  

The south cottonwood tree that was 95% full of green leaves yesterday is now down to about 25% - just overnight.  The forecast for the weekend is rain/wind/snow.  By the end of next week I'm guessing both cottonwoods will be dressed (or maybe undressed is a better term) in their winter finest.  I so love the changing seasons.  I enjoy winter clothes more than summer ones.  

My gratitude for today is the delight I feel to spend time with The Husband.  How lucky/fortunate/blessed I am with him.  I'm also grateful for thoughtful souls who pick up my books at the library, for an evening out at the symphony and maybe, just maybe, even for a boot that will help my gimpy foot to heal.

I'm Debating

How fortunate I am to be able to choose between several things.

I'm debating what to do today.  I can stay home all day (and even then there are choices - sew, clean, read, clean) or head out for a couple errands.

I'm debating what to spend some money on.  I've earned (through The Husband's employer participation - a company that rewards for steps taken, which dovetails nicely with my love for walking) $225 to spend. Redeemable online through a few companies.  I'm thinking maybe some shoes that are so expensive I'd never ever spend actual money for them.  But this is "cash" I've earned through my walking.  It's tempting.

Only the beginning of the leaves...

I'm debating whether to help The Husband with the current crop of leaves.  He mowed all the leaves up late Tuesday afternoon.  Yesterday I stood at the window and watched them fall like snow.  This picture shows just over 24 hours of leaf fall.  (It doesn't really look like much, but will easily completely fill one of our curbside trash barrels.) And those cottonwoods still have 95% of their leaves attached (and still green - this could be a l-o-n-g leaf-shedding).  I can rake.  Or not.

Yesterday's walk yielded this lovely flower - no idea its name, but it stood out because there are so few things blooming since the nights have become so cold.

And I'm grateful:  for these few last days of lovely sunshine.  Rarely do we have such an extended fall, even to Halloween.  I'm grateful for people who know how to hug and aren't afraid to dispense their good hugs.  I'm grateful for family members who reach out to me.  And for talented musicians.

I'm Too Old

• Somedays it just feels like I'm too old/too dumb to learn anything new.  The Husband is uber savvy (educated and experienced) in computerese.  Me?  Not so much.  I know I frustrate the heck out of him because I'm so inept.  He'll impart some wisdom and it's completely "greek to me!"  Things aren't improved when my ineptitude rears its ugly head while he's busy working - making a living for my benefit.

Sigh.

Change not necessarily progress.

• Just a few short weeks ago this field was full of tomatoes and squash and melons and pumpkins.  This row of trees (that are now felled and covering the ground) bisected the field.  I fear the trees are coming down to make way for a subdivision.  I will miss that field, loved the rural feel it lent to the neighborhood.

• Was loaned this cute book to read.  I loved being exposed to new words and concepts.  I'm certain the word Vacilando was coined just for The Husband.  He's espoused the concept of "Enjoy The Journey" the entire time I've known him.

• And have been thinking lately of an interaction I had with the Relief Society president on Sunday. I've had a concern I've waffled on sharing with her. (I'm not generally in favor of causing issues.) She initiated a conversation during which I tried to avoid spilling my emotions.  Eventually I told her. Her response continues to occupy my mind.  She said she was grateful that I told her.  If I don't tell her she doesn't know.  And while I'm not asking for change or solutions, she will make it a matter of prayer and perhaps be able to work something out for everyone's benefit!  Wow!

I've known numerous R. S. presidents over my lifetime.  I don't recall a single one speaking to me in such a concerned sincere manner.  Should the situation remain unchanged, my heart will long remember her kindness and the serious way she attended my (very small) burden.

• Woke up this morning to an outside temp of 28 degrees.  Finally broke down and turned on the furnace.  I so dislike doing that, it means 6 months of high heating bills - although I am so very grateful for a snug warm house.

I'm grateful for those who have patience.  (I often "try" that attribute.)  I'm also grateful for plenty of things to do that keep me productive.  For the ability to walk into my local grocery and leave with bags full of sustenance.  I'm grateful we have some fun plans for Thanksgiving, it's nice to have something to look forward to.

Another Monday

And this Monday has been virtually trouble-free compared to last Monday.

The weekend was fun - The Husband arrived, we enjoyed a late dinner; Saturday was spent doing yard work & house work.  Went to a movie and dinner with friends.  Sunday was church - regular and extra meetings - the Primary program is an annual treat. I needed those couple days with non-stop Husband time.

Wind-driven afternoon clouds.

This morning I was up early and out on the trail (although mentally cursing Daylight Savings Time - I so dislike it!) Had a lovely 4 mile walk (in spite of the troublesome tendon in my foot) while I watched the sun turn the bottoms of the clouds lovely shades of pink, coral, orange and yellow.  No camera can adequately capture it!

I've managed to get a few things done, run an errand, deliver a birthday card and still have an hour or so to indulge my reading hobby.

I'm grateful for people who are kind to my children, for tender hearts that easily express love, for a late-evening-impulse-purchase of potato chips (a rarity for us) and for the beautiful skies that turn our eyes (and sometimes even our hearts) to heaven.

Long Week

This has felt like a long week - The Husband doesn't usually go out of town for this long, and one extra night feels like an extra week.

But...he'll be home in about 4 hours and my world can return to its proper axis and spin again.

Last night's sunset was stunning!  By the time I found a place to take a proper picture (as if I ever do justice to the scenes I try to capture)- without interfering poles, lights and houses - it was past the beauty peak and on the wane.  Still I was delighted to have seen it.

Wore my new watch!  Loved it.  Sent a text in thanks and was rewarded with a prompt reply.  I really love when people answer my texts, makes me feel like I count.

Headed out on the trail this morning - had to wait a bit for the skies to lighten enough to see where I was walking (wouldn't want to wander off into the wilderness) - gimpy foot and all.  (Have wondered if I'm to be chronically challenged with foot pain; that tendon does not want to heal!) Warm, windy and wonderful time to be out.  This tree looked just as lovely at 7 a.m. as at any other time of the day.

I've spent the day here at home - had some friends stop by for a visit, chatted (and texted) with daughters, luxuriated by reading a bit, puttered around - this is my favorite place to be.  It will be even more favored on the return of The Husband.

I'm grateful for airplanes that bring The Husband home.

Gift Card

Received a gift card for my birthday.  To Charming Charlie.  To the uninitiated (as I totally was) this is one of those uber-accessory (does not translate to expensive) stores.  (I've often wondered where women get those necklaces, bags, bracelets, and shoes.  Now I know:  Charming Charlie.)  I got a bit of sensory over-load just walking in there.

Came out with this very cute pink watch.  Yes, a pink one.  A complete luxury.  I have lots of pink clothes, it will be fun to wear!

Heading home, I remembered too late I was entering a re-do of a major intersection.  Lots of big-time delays.  Noticed a small detour sign - which didn't make much sense to me because it headed into a dead-end street.  Decided to brave it.  Took a long, meandering, circuitous route under the road I wanted till I finally landed on the far side; and with only a couple right turns ended up exactly where I wanted to be.  Not only did I not sit in traffic delays, my drive was through a rural-like area that was much more pleasant.  One of those times I was glad I took the "road less traveled."

Coming out of a business I noticed (and how could you not?) this row of pear trees.  Their fall colors are so lovely.  Heavenly Father truly graced this world with beauty.

Heard a phrase that has stuck in my head:  a true and faithful heart.  Sounds nice.  I hope for that.

And I'm grateful today is Wednesday.  Only two more sleeps and then My Love will be home.  Can hardly wait!

Tuesday That's Been Better Than Monday

Huge spider next to my shoe 

After some decent sleep I bounded (not really but almost) out of bed ready for the day - knowing that today held enjoyment.

Walked first thing - with a delightful partner.  We both reveled in the stiff breeze, nice temps, deserted trail.  Loved the walk! (I'm beginning to think I ought to get a real camera - I'm not so great with the one in my phone!  Forgive the really bad pictures.)

Love the leaves!

Puttered around here - didn't even get my hair done until 11 a.m.  That's what I call taking life easy!

Even more yummy when it's free!

Treated myself to a late lunch - and also received a "free treat"!  Which I am saving for later when I'm needing some chocolate.  These are one of my favorites - still remember with great fondness the birthday The Husband ordered several of them for me sans frosting (dislike that stuff).

I truly love the mornings!

Completed some tasks and errands, enjoying the sky through my car's open moonroof.  Even received a hug from my 6 year old neighbor!

I'm supplied with books to read, laundry to fold, things to watch on TV, plenty to eat and a heart full of gratitude.  (I am only lacking The Husband's presence - thankfully, he'll be here in a few days.)  I am content.  What a lovely place to be.

I Must Fix...

my attitude about Monday.  Surely my Mondays have decided to become the kind of day their reputation describes.  I've got to get them going in a positive direction!

1.  Morning walk - yay!  I just need to get them back to their former length and in a way I can more fully enjoy them and it will be triple yay!

2.  Discover something has been left in The Husband's car.  Said car is parked at a lot near the airport for the week.  Husband is already in flight, cannot help.

3.  Took some hunting (and phone calls) first to discover the item is in The Husband's car - anxiety mounts.

4. To lunch with friends - I'm not very good company (not in a particularly pleasant mood), concerned about getting out to the airport and back before afternoon traffic nightmare, cut lunch short.

5.  On the way to the airport, answer cellphone.  Neighbor is in a bind, needs a ride to pick up her car that's been in (and out and in) the shop for repairs for 3 weeks. Turn car around and head back to the neighborhood to pick up neighbor and her 3 cute little girls.  After ascertaining her car is indeed ready (and singing several songs with the cute little girls) I leave once more for the airport.

6.  Drive to The Husband's car.  My remote key fob doesn't work.  Belatedly realize when The Husband had his car fixed my fob wasn't "re-keyed" to the car.  Doesn't work.  Break two fingernails getting the actual key out.  Insert key, door unlocks.  Open door...and the alarm goes off.  Honk,honk,honk, for l-o-n-g seemingly-endless minutes.

7.  Scrabble around in car to retrieve needed item.  (Back doors will not unlock, have to crawl through the front seats, what little dignity I might have had is shot.  Car still honking.)  Try in vain to start car with button - no spot to insert key.  Car still honking.  No luck.  Frantically try to call Husband (who is in CA) for his magic touch.  End up fumbling my phone.  Have to re-dial 3 times. Car still honking.

8.  Husband's magic wand is out of twinkle dust.  I get out of the car, push the button to lock the door and walk away.  Car still honking. (American cars do NOT have wimpy horns.)  Go back and use key to unlock, lock, unlock and lock the door again.  Finally the car stops honking.  Sigh.   It was one of those few minutes that take a day to live through.  :^)

Beautiful!

9.  Am finally safely home.  It is 4:30 p.m. and I'm heading in for my jammies (I don't care that it's still full daylight outside).  I'm ready for tomorrow.

I actually found a couple things to be grateful for today in spite of my comical frustrations.  Here we are in the middle of October and the day is absolutely stunning.  77 degrees.  Breezy (good-bye hair style).  Heavenly Father seems to be smiling down with beauty on our little corner of the world.

I'm grateful for small miracles that happen in spite of ourselves.  For the ability to say yes when someone asks.  For kind friends who are patient with me.  For promised hugs from The Husband. For kleenex.

Another Friday and I'm Ready For The Weekend

Was happy to have The Husband along on my walk again this morning.  I so love walking with my favorite person at my favorite time of day.

Love the tree and the man!

Tomorrow will be spent puttering around here, catching up on a few things and enjoying each other - we'll be apart next week.  I'm trying to plan some sort of outing for each day so I won't get quite so sad.

Fall is here!  The colors of the trees have me continually snapping pictures with my phone.  Ones I can look at when the colors have faded.  I lovelovelove these beautiful days!  It's been a delightful October.

But here we are, heading toward the end of the month and I find myself getting tense.  It's October. Then it'll be November and we'll be into the holidays.  The last two months of the year are filled with expectations - and no way can all those expectations (and hopes) be fulfilled.  Not the ones we have of ourselves or the ones others have for us.

I'm not that great at disappointment - at myself or when I've disappointed others.  I find myself mentally tiptoeing through a minefield of expectations/hopes.  I have to keep reminding myself that I have a tendency to overexplain.  Unnecessarily.  I'm better than I used to be.  Progress still to be made.

Hopefully I can make it through the next couple months with some equanimity, seize (or create) some opportunities to extend kindness to others, eliminate emotional resentment when others choose for me and put the Atonement to effect in my life.

Today I'm so grateful that there are others who take time to be with me.  Who notice me.  I'm grateful for the beautiful trees.  And for hope.

Wednesday That Should Be a Saturday

Up early and on the trail - with The Husband!  Since I'm required to do shorter walks at a slower pace until my tendon has decided it has healed, he was up early to walk along.  We delighted in the stunning sunrise.  Best way to start the day.

Enjoyed this line (and pretty much only this line) from a book I read:  "I love to sleep.  It's like being dead without the commitment."  For those of us who like to sleep.

Visit taught a dear sister this morning.  I wish all could be welcomed the way she welcomes us. We feel like visiting royalty, no matter how long we stay and what we talk about.  Gracious, kind, sincere...I could go on and on.  What a privilege it is to be in her home.

Not a great shot, but still, they're pretty.

Headed out for the mail and snapped this shot of the geraniums.  Here we are in the middle of October and they're still going strong in spite of the fact that I quit deadheading them a month ago. (I'm a lazy ol' lady.) Those white flowers (temporary loss of memory as to their name)?  They're volunteers from last summer.

Today I'm grateful that I didn't ruin the microwave by running it on empty, that I have toast to eat (even though I burned it), that I am the recipient of hugs and that at least some people are kind.

Done!

After 13 1/2 years it's time for some maintenance.

Paint loss due to weathering.

We have 4 exterior doors, two south facing, one east facing and one west facing.  The sun and wind play havoc with their paint finish.  To the point of leaving the wood bare in spots.  This was the year. I couldn't let another summer pass without addressing the paint-less door frames.  I actually hired someone to do them early in the summer.  Got cold feet about how much it was going to cost. Upwards of $300 just for the labor, I had to supply the materials.  Heck with that, I'll do it myself.

Ready to paint.

Now, I'm not a painter.  But, really, how hard could it be?  Just slap some paint on the frames and call it good, right?

Ummm, no.   This is how it went.

 1.  While The Husband was playing in the peonies on Saturday I started the scraping.  It seemed like an endless task.  Was ready to apply the primer on Monday morning, but no, The Husband said, those cracks need to be filled.  So off to Home Depot first thing for wood filler.  (Trip #2 to Home Depot. Every project requires a minimum of 3 trips to Home Depot, right?)

 2.  Fill the deep cracks with wood filler.   This is great stuff.

 3.  Wait 2 hours.

 3a.  Interrupt The Husband yet again to come take the screen off so I can get to the more complicated parts of door #2 that I'm also working on.

 4.  Sand the filler and all the rough spots.

 5.  Go over it all with a tack cloth to pick up the loose bits.  I forgot this part..  Oh, well.

 6.  Use yards and yards of that blue painter's tape.  Good thing I like the color blue.

 7.  Put on one coat of (label says triple thick) primer.  (Expected the "triple thick" stuff to go on thick, went on on like milk.  What's up with that?)

 8.  Wait two hours

Much Better.

 9.  Apply primer coat #2.

10.  Wait over night.

11.  Apply coat one of paint.

12.  Wait two hours.

13.  Apply coat #2 of paint.

All done!

14.  Wait a minimum of 30 minutes.

15.  Carefully, oh, so carefully, peel off the painter's tape.  (Took forever.)

16.  Stand back and admire the bits that look good.  Bemoan the bits that aren't quite so great - especially the parts that lost a little paint in the tape-removing process (no matter how careful I was, I still took off teensy chips of paint).

I always want things perfect.  No matter how I try, it just doesn't happen.  I must have more than my share of "slob" in my genes.  I like perfection, just can't seem to achieve it in anything.

17.  Heave a sigh of relief for a job completed.  I'm no professional - in anything let alone painting.  This feels like the first project of this type I've done.  I think I'd have to do lots and lots of doorframes in order to achieve some sort of competence.  Still, the wood around the doors will be protected this winter.  I'm glad for that.

Today I'm grateful for aches that result from good honest work.  I'm grateful for the ability to maintain our home for years of enjoyment.  I'm grateful for enough supplies to do a decent job.  And I'm grateful for those who aren't super-critical of the final result (after all, I'm just an ol' gramma doing my best).

Yay!

Started out yesterday morning ahead of the game - decided spur of the minute Friday evening to get going on the freezer defrost.  It took w-a-y less time than expected.  Was done in a couple hours and by Saturday morning we were able to get everything back inside.

Which meant we were able to do a fairly quick run to Costco to replenish some stuff we'd been needing but postponed because of the defrost.  (Methinks the opening of the newest Costco across the valley has lessened the load on our Costco - yay!)

I was slightly dreading the cleaning of the (church) building because it has always been just the two of us in the past (with the building cleaning "boss") and it has taken hours.  We arrived yesterday to find two others there, the building hadn't been used much this week because of Conference last week so we were out of there in 45 minutes.  Another yay!

The Husband had a largish chore on his list - dividing the peonies.  I think he mentally dreaded it a tad - he hasn't ever done this before and it seemed a bit overwhelming.  Only took him a couple hours - start to finish.  That gave me time to get the paint-preparation-scraping on a door frame done.  Two big things done in less than expected time - another yay!

We had time to shower and relax a bit before heading out to dinner with friends.  A game of dominoes (and goodies) at their place after was the most delightful way to end the day.

Wish I could have managed to get this stunning tree without the car, sadly it wasn't possible.  Still...it's a beautiful tree - size, color, shape - I love it.

Today I'm grateful for prayer (and the knowledge that it really does help) that we can utter for those we love, for not being too old to find/enjoy friends, for the beauty of fall.        And for candy corn.

Glasses

We've been blessed to have great vision insurance the last decade or so. It has allowed me new glasses pretty much every year - with very little out-of-pocket payment.  I have enjoyed taking full advantage of something new each year, all the while feeling like I need to enjoy this benefit while I can, it won't last for too much longer.

Last year it was Tiffany.  This year it's Gucci.  Seriously?  Yes.  I have been eyeglass branded.  To be fair, I haven't gone into it looking to buy a "brand."  (The Husband delights in teasing me about my glasses.)  I've just had some specific desires in mind when I've gone looking.

Previously I've been into frameless glasses.  Loved them. Last year I wanted something totally different.  Thus the Tiffany frames - dark tortoiseshell lined with the trademark Tiffany blue.  With a teensy bit of bling on the side.

This year I wanted something a bit lighter in color, more simple, so my sparkly earrings don't make it too - too much.  The Husband wasn't sure.  Until he saw the finished product.  He claims to like them.

The best part:  my prescription hasn't changed too awfully much so this year I'll be able to swap between the two frames depending on my mood.  What a luxury!!  (And to top it off, the frames are cheaper than the rimless ones I was getting before.)

Luxury brand for sure.

It still makes me giggle/shake my head to see the way the "brands" send out the glasses - special case, logo gift bag.  Yep, for me, the one who hasn't been into trendy brands so much, it takes some getting used to.  I so love getting something new that's practical - and not over the top.

Another thing I love:  making a simple comment that makes The Husband laugh and blush - knowing I've got him pegged.  That mulish look is unmistakable!

How grateful I am for insurance.

Friday That Finds Me Behind

Woke up at oh-dark-thirty this morning, not enough light for getting out on the trail so I waited.  Felt like I waited forever.  (I'm scared of the dark, don't like being out there alone in it.) Finally was able to get out on my bike.  What a delightful time I had, it's been weeks since I was able to be out on the trail by myself.

Geese and duck friends.

I watched a group (gaggle?) of geese fly in and land on this little pond with the ducks.  Awesome to watch!  Was able to re-acquaint myself with the trail and the goings on I noticed as I rode along. Best way ever to start the day!

Last night we fulfilled our invitation and attended the annual gala of Utah Clean Energy.  They served food and provided networking opportunities for people interested in preserving/enhancing our planet's resources.  For the second year, they also awarded individuals who have contributed in some way.

Well Deserved Recognition!

The Husband (and his trusty cohort) were presented the grand award of the evening for their successful fight against Rocky Mountain Power's greedy effort to charge residential solar customers additional fees for having solar.  (No, the fight isn't over, but the first conflict was defeated - due in no small measure to The Husband and the organization he founded.)  The attorney for UCE was eloquent and kind in her presentation.  (I managed to get a cute picture of the three of them smiling brightly - it's a treasure!)

I am so very pleased for The Husband.  He and his friend deserve the recognition. Countless hours were expended - in an extraordinary community outreach effort by The Friend and the numbers analysis by The Husband.  I was honored to be there with the two of them.

Rare view of a beloved building.

The meeting took place on the top floor of the Zion's Bank building.  With views I rarely am privileged to see.  It was totally impossible to get a shot without the reflection on the windows, try though I did.

Tomorrow will be a full day - our turn to clean the chapel again, dividing the peonies (the ones I refused to give up on are thriving!) a bit (hopefully more than just a bit) of scraping in preparation for painting, defrosting the freezer, a few chores.  I'm looking forward to most of it, I love doing that kind of thing with The Husband.

I'm grateful for much today - for good health (so as to accomplish all those things requiring our attention) for beautiful flowers, for a snug place to dwell, for kind people, for a bike that allows me to exercise when my foot isn't quite better, for the full moon and the gorgeous sunrise.  And for soup.

Stray Disjointed Thoughts

Walked again with a friend this morning.  She's very patient about my abbreviated walks.  Next week I'll be able to add 15 minutes to the overall time and it will be more enjoyable.  Although walking out the front door this morning, facing that gorgeous moon before it set was the perfect way to start the day.  (Am anxious for the annual switch off of Daylight Savings Time - I'll be able to walk at a more reasonable hour, 7 a.m. is just plain too late!)

Jack Frost helps my foot.

A month post-original-doctor-visit I'm finding myself a tad annoyed at my foot.  90% better was great progress.  Which progress feels like it stalled.  Searched online for physical therapy exercises for extensor tendonitis.  Have been doing those.  Detect no improvement.  Decided this morning after my shower to try an ice pack.  Sandwiched it between my own sock and a sock of The Husband (for holding in place).  Immediate improvement.  Will repeat and hope for permanent pain mitigation.

Yummy lunch!

Decided I hadn't had enough of the fresh air, beautiful sunshine and exercise.  Decided to ride my bike over to the library to retrieve a book.  Came home with not one, but three books which is silly because I'm already reading 3 books at once and have 4 more in the queue.  Loved the ride, except for the part where I almost crashed trying to avoid a small snake sunning itself on the pavement. Successful on both counts - avoided the snake and the crash.

Had a friend stop by for a minute.  Over an hour later we were still going strong.  How delightful she is!

Today's smoothie lunch was an experiment:  carrot/apple/walnut/greek yogurt.  Tossed in some ice for cool and scarfed it down.  Loved it.

The rest of the day will be spent in my favorite place - here at home.  Ironing, sewing, reading, stir-frying for dinner.  How lucky I am!

I'm grateful today for friends that stop by for a visit.  For plenty of decent things to read.  For a husband who jumps for joy to help me no matter what my request (computer help, air in bike tires, hug fulfillment, please-don't-make-me-cook-tonight-can-we-eat-out -- to just list a few) - how blessed I am to have him in my life.

Unfinished

Have spent some time today tidying up my sewing room.  What fun I have just puttering around in here.  Noticed several unfinished projects I started, then tucked away for some future project-needing time and then forgot about.

I went through a period of time when I doggedly and determinedly finished every single project I started.  While it felt good to have stuff finished, it somehow dimmed my enjoyment in the process. Then I went through a time when I'd start a project and when I had learned / mastered enough to satisfy me I'd cheerfully toss the rest aside.  That left me unfulfilled and unhappy about spending money on something I never finished.

Now I pretty well try to finish what I've started but don't get bothered when I no longer have an interest.

This whole process of life on this earth is a sort of project we are working on, valiantly laboring toward that finish.  Refining and mastering parts of us that need polish and luster.  I imagine our souls sparkling more and more as we conquer our faults and enhance our virtues.

How grateful I am for a loving Heavenly Father who doesn't abandon me as a worthless project.  I need His help.

I came across this card again - received it from my favorite person many years ago, but saved it not only for the written message inside, but because I love the picture and theme of contentment and love that is on the front.  I'm grateful for those who have talent to share.

How fortunate we are to have such beauty in and around us, projects to complete (or not), someone to love and hugs to receive.

Post Weekend

It sure feels like the weekend went w-a-y too fast.  The highlight was, of course, General Conference.  I don't very often head into Conference expecting answers to questions, mostly I just want to feel the Spirit, to be uplifted and encouraged.  This time there were a couple times when I felt like they were talking right to me:  when they talked about being kind (which was mentioned more than once) to everyone, at all times, in all places.  Of course that reminded me of being a witness of Christ - at all times in all places.  What better way to witness of Him than to spread His love through our actions?

I loved the encouragement/admonition to be careful with our choices.  I love the quote from 2 Nephi 31:20 about being steadfast (one of my favorite words) and having a "perfect brightness of hope". There is much to think about in the aftermath of conference, many ways to implement a higher standard of living.  I have much work to do.

I was lucky enough this morning to be out on the trail - limiting myself to 30 minutes of walking each day this week.  It isn't near enough for my mental health, but s-o-o much better than not walking at all.  (Although I'm back in the dreaded boot - 90% improved is still shy of 100% better and I must safeguard the progress I've made so as to not backslide!)

Lots of seeds in the maples!

Stood back to back with the Grandson yesterday - and yep, he's done it - he's topped my height.  I love that he's taller than me, he's a great young man.

Our maple trees have lots of seeds - that's great news for their survival!

Tradition has me making lasagne (a rarity - it's so blasted expensive!) for October General Conference Sunday dinner.  Went overboard in my intake, it just tasted so very good.  Spent a miserable night with an over-over-over-full tummy.  Yes, today is a new day and with luck (and some extreme self-restraint) I won't over eat again.  I so dislike feeling that way.  (And my clothes really dislike the extra poundage!)

The sun is shining, the temperatures delightful, I have a list of things to accomplish (I really enjoy being productive) and I'm planning for a good week.  I plan to be kind as well. 

And my daily gratitude:  for those who greet me with love.  For spiritual weekends.  For trees that seem to be holding their own, even though they're struggling against viruses and strange weather patterns, I love their shade.  For hope. 

Margaret Must Not Have Been Thinking Much

It's Friday already and I haven't posted anything since Tuesday.  It feels like it's been a rather busy week, but I've still managed to read quite a bit and get some stitching done.

Watering the orchids when we arrived home from our trip I was surprised to see a bud.  When did that happen?  It has blossomed into such a pretty bloom.  I'm always surprised and grateful when my flowering plants actually flower.  I love that they are happy.

Stopped in at the grocery this morning.  While looking at something on the shelf was mildly surprised when a lady reaching for something on the very topmost shelf started chatting to me.  Was more surprised when she continued the conversation (or really maybe a lecture since she wasn't really interested in my input) as we are both walking off - in different directions.  I reached the end of the aisle, she reached the opposite end of the aisle and she was still talking at me.  Louder because of the distance, pushing her cart forward while facing me - and still talking.  She must have felt lonely today.

This morning was fabulous!  I actually got to get out on the trail.  A bit later in the morning than I like.  And I only walked about 30 minutes.  And managed to get accosted by unleashed dogs.  But still - I loved that start of the day, to be out walking in the sunrise and cool air.  

My heart is grateful today.  For a comfortable place to live that's close to several trails I love to walk. For a foot that isn't in lots of pain.  For good shoes.  For a grocery chock-full of good things to eat. For a just-right small package of candy corn (an extremely rare indulgence).  For good books to read. For my eyes.  Heavenly Father is incredibly good to us.