Threes?

Troublesome things come in threes - or so they say?

Looks expensive to replace.

1.  The mailbox.  Which will be totally finished when the wind quits enough to use the spray paint.

2.  Bent rim on the Charger.  Heading across point-of-the-mountain to Cubby's last night.  The Husband vetoed the freeway for the frontage road - less busy.  Maybe there's a reason for that?  He couldn't avoid a pothole that was w-a-y worse than it looked and quite difficult to avoid.  A mile or so down the road and the tire pressure light on the dash goes crazy!

Yep, it's a bent rim.    The Husband and our friend had it changed in no time at all.  (Experience lends speed in this instance.) Tomorrow will likely include a trip to find a new wheel.  I just have visions of dollars flying away from us.

And I'm almost afraid to breathe to see what the third thing is going to be.  I'd like it to only be two things.  Pretty please?

Today's R. S. lesson was taught by a much loved friend.  She has a unique and lovely gift for teaching, being able to reach each and every sister in the room and make it applicable to all.  How grateful I am that I was there to hear it.

Fixed - Almost Completely

This is true.

We intended to go to a movie today.  Might have to wait for $5 Tuesday.  Instead The Husband took care of a few things around the yard and then set to work on the mailbox.  It's almost done - just a couple sides of the post that need painting.  As usual, the winds of Draper are busy blowing things around - spray painting doesn't work so well.

In a bit we're off to Cubby's with a couple friends, we're grateful for their willingness to go places with us.  They're good people.

Almost June and I won't be seeing this reminder on my calendar any more. I like it.

No Rain Today!

Shower - like new!

And it's the first day this week without it.  The sun is smiling down on all the lush green, the flowers are all watered and happy and it's lovely out.  We went yesterday for a spontaneous lunch out - on the way home we were pelted with such loud, heavy rain/hail that it made conversation difficult.

The shower is finished!  I've seen tiled showers look a lot worse than ours did.  Still, though, it looks almost brand new again.  He did a nice job and we're grateful to find someone willing to do all that work - grinding out all the old grout and replacing it with fresh new.  Now on to the next project!

I try really hard to have respect and reverence for living things of all kinds.  (Except when it comes to spiders, rodents, bugs - that sort of thing.)  I work really hard to keep my plants happy and suffer some anxiety when I manage not to keep one alive.  I spent some effort dividing and re-potting one of my African Violets.  (The jury is still out as to whether or not they'll thrive.  But they're looking mostly ok at this point.)   The other one was just too overgrown.  I didn't know they should be re-potted annually, it was seriously overgrown but still blooming all the time.

Trashed plant.

But yesterday I did it:  I tossed the violet in the garbage, pot and all.  I took a deep breath and chucked it right in the kitchen receptacle.  Closed the door and walked away.  I couldn't do it anymore.  I felt guilt on so many levels.  I think that little violet cost me $3.49 - about a decade ago. It has brightened my spirits on many a day.  But enough.  It's gone.

I surely hope Heaven will be gentle when judging me by my plants.  And that all the ones where I've been more successful will help to balance the scales when compared to all the ones I've given up on.

And it's the weekend.  The possibilities make me smile:  mailbox repair, movie, get together with a couple friends, start a paint project.  And that isn't even a complete list.  I love having things to do as long as there's not a lot of pressure involved.  And the best part is whatever we decide to do, we'll do together.

I'm grateful for a fresh, new-feeling shower.  For the songs of the birds we hear through the open windows.  For laundry that's all done and dinner that's planned.  For the knowledge I have that I get to choose for myself, that I don't have to respond to another's instructions (well-intentioned though they might be) or criticisms (not generally considered to be well-intentioned, just controlling.) And for the hope that somehow, I might be acceptable to our Heavenly Father; He is the one that matters.

Abhor

Monday holidays always mess with my head.  I'm never quite sure what day it is.

I felt super-efficient after my walk this morning.  I walked over to return some books at the library and up the hill to the grocery for that one item I forgot yesterday.  Three things accomplished all before 7:30 a.m.!

Isn't abhor an interesting word?  I like it.

Not even cute.

The Husband abhors snails.  He's been seen out in the rain gleefully gathering dozens of snails in his pail for disposal.  He'll go out of his way to smash one, or lob one in the street for annihilation by car tires.  We didn't have any snails for the first ten or so years we lived here.  Apparently word got around that our yard was open territory.  Now we can't seem to get rid of them.

We've been grateful for the recent rains, but not the resulting explosion of snails.

And I abhor dressing room mirrors.  Spent a few minutes-that-felt-like-hours trying on swim suits for the summer.  Abandoned the cubicle in a state of mental distress, devastation.  Do I really look that bad? And need I say that I didn't buy any beach apparel?  It's no wonder I prefer winter - the winter clothes are much more becoming to my cellulite riddled middle, my sagging arm flaps and the rest of the body parts that are less than desirable.  Thank heavens for those who view me through love's eyes.

It's been a stunning day.  Huge puffy white clouds taking turns in the sky with the charcoal color thunder-filled ones.  The ever changing view is nothing less than mesmerizing.  I even pulled over in the park to try to catch a picture of the mountain peaks peeking through the clouds.  Wasn't awfully successful, should have stopped earlier but there were too many electrical wires in the way (not to mention too many cars).

Today's gratitude is for jeans with stretch.  For comfy socks. For loved ones birthdays. And for hope that accompanies prayers.

Tuesday Without Pictures

I tried, really tried, to get a picture of the cotton still left on our tree out back, but it was too windy. The picture was just a blur.  We're still amazed that the tree has held on to so much cotton, it seems like it's been drifting down for a long time.

Received a call this morning from the lawn guys.  "So sorry about your mailbox, and of course we'll pay for the parts."  This is our first year using this particular mowing service.  So far, they've been great.  I expected a fight over the mailbox.  How delightful to find they're happy to accept the responsibility.  Makes me glad I didn't succumb to the impulse to kick and scream and swear.  (I really didn't have that impulse this time - the operative words being this time.  Maybe I'm finally maturing?)

Ran into a friend at the grocery - we had a moment in the middle of the dairy.  She's another recently widowed friend.  It just tears at my heart.  And kind of scares me a bit.

I must have been wearing my "friendly" aura. After complimenting my ring the young woman bagger proceeded to unleash her tongue with her recent life's story.  And she wasn't stingy with her words.  I never know quite how to respond.  People's excess words tend to dry up any of my thoughts that might lead to further conversation.  And mostly I just feel a bit perplexed as to what precipitated the situation.  Makes me wonder if people are just really starved for personal interaction, conversation or attention.  I always wonder later if I was kind.  I hope so.

I really love how it feels when I've transferred the foodstuff from the bags to the cupboards and fridge.  It's comforting to know there's plenty for us for a while.

Caught a few minutes of a tv show I've never really seen, I just get the last few minutes of it before the news comes on.  The host had invited a young man/guest who apparently the whole world knows - except me. He's so young his voice hasn't changed yet.  But I enjoyed what he had to say (in his distinctly southern accent):  that if you're negative you're standing still, mired in misery.  If you're positive you're always moving forward.  Then you can help not only yourself, but likely someone else as well. He chooses to be positive.

And today I'm grateful for a washing machine that decided to work after all. (I'm not quite ready to plunk down all that cash for a new one.) For someone willing to re-grout our shower.  For a walk in the sunrise that nourished my soul.  And for hope.  Each new day brings hope.

Off-Kilter

So it's been a strange few days.  Aside from my aching head/teeth/ears it just seems like things are all out-of-whack. Surely it's just me.  Still feels weird.

Saturday it rained.  We puttered around and ran an errand or two.  Settled in for a cozy evening together - even after 45 years we still crave being together.  Sunday was a bit stressful for me having to sub on the organ.  (It was nice to be thanked even though she didn't even ask, just instructed me to take over for her.  Makes me feel like a resentful teenager.  Dislike that feeling.)

Picture 1

Our home teachers came and it is always nice to have them come.  Our new guy is all business.  They were in and out of the house in a bit over 20 minutes.  Left us plenty of time for a Sunday nap.  (And why is it that Sunday naps are the best naps of the week?)

Today we slept in, saw a movie with several of our kids, shared a meal with them (and how lovely it was to spend some time together) and then came home to picture 1. Yep, this is our mailbox.  And what is wrong with this picture?  The mailbox belongs on the post out by the curb, not sitting on our front porch with various pieces/parts.  Picture 2 shows our bungee-cord-temporary-fix until the parts arrive.  Bungee cord inventors:  geniuses!

Apparently the mowers (who I didn't expect to come mow on a holiday Monday) didn't see it. Sheared the bracket right off.  $150 for replacement parts.  The Husband's labor:  priceless.  I hope they'll man up and admit they did it and spring for the cost of the parts.  Not holding my breath, though.

Picture 2

I sat in Relief Society yesterday morning with approximately 40 other women, a place where I am often not at my most comfortable.  Yesterday though, felt a bit different.  There were 6 little ones ranging in age from 14 months to 2 months.  It felt like we were collectively one woman keeping track of those little bodies as they toddled around the room charming each of us with their smiles. Every one of us hoped for little arms reaching our direction so we could pick up and hold the sweetness for even just a minute.  Maybe next week will be my turn.

Sacrament meeting yielded a couple wonderful moments.  One of our new Elders spoke - he leaves for his mission in a week or so.  He didn't speak long, but closed with his love for his Mom, a totally heartfelt declaration that had more than a few eyes filling with tears.  He'll do just fine.

The other moment was our musical number.  A men's quartet sang a wonderfully complex arrangement - a cappella.  Note perfect?  Not quite.  Perfectly beautiful?  Absolutely.  I sat there and had my heart full of the knowledge that Heavenly Father approved.  That he rejoiced in those voices raised in praise to Him.  For me, personally, it brought the Spirit.  How blessed we are with lovely music.

And back to out-of-whack?  We've moved from our master bathroom to the main bathroom in preparation for the guys to come tomorrow for re-grouting of the tile.  (As well as a bit of other needed home maintenance.)  None of my stuff is where I'm used to having it.  The shower is different.  The blow dryer works different.  I'm totally disconcerted about how to do my morning routine.

The powder room is also empty for maintenance reasons.  Our handyman-guy will do his best to help us find the reason why the sink pipes in there freeze each winter.  I hope he's a good detective and that mitigation doesn't take more than the 5 spare floor tiles I have.  I'm not even remotely anxious to re-tile the whole floor.

I think this will be an expensive week.

I'm grateful today for being able to have some family time.  I'm grateful for someone to help us take care of our home (Family Circus comic strip says it's a house until someone lives there and then it's a home), I love being here.  I'm grateful for enough money (so far) to do that maintenance. I'm grateful for a bit of sunshine, a bit of chocolate and a bundle of bungee cords.  And huge gratitude for those whose sacrifice and service we commemorate this day.

Thursday/Friday Almost The Weekend

After a morning spent running errands, I spent the rest of yesterday on the loveseat.  Between my tooth/teeth/ears/head there wasn't much above my neck that wasn't hurting.  Maybe my eyes weren't but that was about it.  Still is.

I read a book, played my iPad and napped the rest of the day away.  Until....The Husband arrived!! What balm to my soul to have him back again.

This morning I abandoned all thoughts of my walk and just slowly embraced the day. What a luxury to do as I wish!

The rest of our morning was filled with medical visits.  The new ENT guy pronounced me "not quite a sinus infection, but close" and sent me off for a prescription (some antihistamine nasal spray). $91.50?!!??!! And we don't even know if it will work.  But try it I will.  I plan to get every speck of value from it!

The Husband has a demo-trial hearing aid.  The jury will be out on it for a bit.  That's also a nice chunk of change to part with (not covered by insurance) but it will be worth every single cent if it helps him.

We still marvel at the vibrancy of the tri-color beech this year!  The extended cooler weather's impact is visible on this beautiful tree.  How grateful I am that we planted it.

The gutters are getting another cleaning:  I've watched The Husband scoop handful after handful of gunk from them - mostly cottonwood tree seeds.  Perhaps this time it'll last for a bit.

Some months ago The Husband's almost-favorite (the really favorite ones bit the dust a bit ago) glasses bit the dust.  The frames are no longer available so replacement isn't possible.  He's graciously though with a bit of reluctance worn other less favorite glasses.  Received a call the other day from the eye dr.'s office.  She has some frames she thinks will work to swap out the lenses, but let's not tell The Husband just yet in case it doesn't work.  Off I go the next day to pick them up and voila!  They work!  He is smiling, delighted and thrilled with them!  Another tender mercy, one of those unexpected blessings tailored just for him- the ones that might seem small to the world but seem huge in his world.  And for her:  just another day at the office, being her kind self.



This is particularly touching to my heart.  We are quite independent souls, try to not ask things of others.  The Husband is one of those thoughtful people who as a matter of course grasps at all kinds of opportunities to serve others.  It's perfectly wonderful that someone was able to serve him in such an unexpected but completely useful way.

Yesterday morning I was out as the sun was coming up.  It was cool, and the air was pretty moist from the overnight rain.  As the sunshine warmed the grass, a thin layer of mist appeared.  What a fun sight, not often seen here in dry Utah.

I'm so grateful for the safe return of The Husband. For the ability to get in quickly to see the doctor for some (hopefully) quick relief of sinus issues.  For gift cards for lunch out.  And for kind souls who answer the call to spread a bit of joy to others.  Heavenly Father watches out for us.

Finally, The Oriole

 Isn't he pretty?  Haven't seen her enough yet to grab a shot.  He pretty much announces his presence when he lands on the feeder. (I took this through the window between the blind slats - blurry is the result of extreme cropping to get the detail.)

It's been so wet and cool and cloudy gray out that it's hard to remember that it's almost June and almost summer.  (Had my first apricots of the season yesterday and loved how the flavor made sunshine in my mouth.)  Thus, it seems odd to already see watermelon and corn in the produce section of the grocery.

I'm off to lunch with a friend.  It'll be nice to have someone to talk to.  That way The Husband won't feel so barraged with my excess words when he returns.

Today my goal is to be kind. (Kinder?) That means I must be out amongst people.  Better get on that.

Tuesday In (Mostly) Pictures

Yep, a pile of hail.

After seeing The Husband off to wing his way to the office in CA, I headed out to greet the day. Yesterday afternoon was the wildest craziest thunder/rain/hail storm I've seen in quite some time. We've had a lot of precipitation for which we are really grateful.  Still, though, I'm glad we've had a bit of sunshine today.

Mama and 6 ducklets.

Those rain gutters The Husband spent so much time cleaning over the weekend?  I think they're totally plugged up again. It seriously was a wild storm.  I managed to get this picture that doesn't really look like much, but in actuality is an inch or so of hail underneath the lilacs.  The geraniums took quite a beating but seem happy enough today.

This little mama duck was leading her charge of ducklings alongside me and the sidewalk.  It was so stinking cute.  Until the (stoopid) dogs came along and barked her away.  She flew in circles while the babes cheeped and fussed and she squawked till the dog hushed and she could shelter her darlings again.  She sat down and they all burrowed under her for a few seconds and one by one popped up on her sides.  I loved it.

Mama and baby cows.

Even the cows were out this morning, nurturing their two calves and mooing in the dawn.

Then I had to go back and take a picture of this bush.  I need a better camera to show the glistening raindrops decorating the leaves and stems.  It was pretty enough to catch my eye as I walked past.

The Orioles are back!  My efforts to catch a picture have so far been in vain, but I'm not done trying.

When The Husband is away I make sure I get out every day.  My head needs it.  Came home to a sweet email from someone I care about.  How lovely of her to think of me.

Love the sparkly drops.

I sat in church on Sunday feeling pretty low.  I know the reality is different, but often at church is where I seem to be surrounded by perfection.  And I suffer because I know of all my shortcomings.  Read a thing the other day by Tristi Pinkston regarding Mother's Day that has really given me food for thought.  So glad that she talked about Mom's perfection being viewed through the lens of love.  I needed her perspective.  And perhaps I should apply that perspective here.  No one at church is perfect.  It's a place for the wounded, the hurt, the repentant, the fault-filled.  A place of acceptance, welcome and lack of judgement.  I need to keep all of that, and more, in mind next time I feel so out-of-place there.

Today I'm grateful for a bit of sun.  For a sweet sister at the Temple who made a point of telling me she remembered The Husband and me from our former stake (it's been nearly 15 years) and said so with a sincere smile and how are you all doing.  There never will be enough kindness.  I need to do my part.  And I'm grateful for a job The Husband enjoys - how blessed we are in that regard.

Another Week

The weekend seemed to go fast, especially for how much fun we had.  We should have had more.

The rain gutters have been cleaned as well as possible - The Husband spent considerable effort on making them fully functional.  He takes good care of us.  The usual weekend chores were completed.

The fun:  to dinner (still have $ left on the gift card) with friends; to a movie with great music (though it would have benefitted from the removal of the offensive innuendo that was completely unnecessary even for the target audience).

Today found me on the trail bright and early, crossing paths with a few deer and loving the clouds nestled amongst the mountains on the far side of the valley.

Had an awkward moment when I ran into a recently widowed friend.  Wished I knew what to say other than "we were sorry to hear about ____".  She didn't want to chat or really even make eye contact.  Makes my heart hurt.

Was treated to an impromptu lunch out with The Husband.  Tried a sandwich shop we haven't tried before and really enjoyed the food.  The running-amok children:  not so much.  Was glad I snagged my rainjacket on the way out - it saved my hairdo.

Loved this little sign I saw.  My errands took me to a store I rarely enter; a fun store (it surprises me that I say that since I so dislike shopping.  There's actually a store I like!)

And tomorrow morning The Husband is off to CA to the office again. Only 3 days this time.  It will feel like an age.  I have plans for Tuesday, lunch with a friend on Wednesday and plans for Thursday. By the time I get through all that he'll be home.  Yay!

Today I'm grateful for those with an understanding heart.  I try, but often fail to embrace that quality. Also for thoughtfulness.  And inspiration.

Thursday / Friday

The relatives came!  Our recent-college-graduate granddaughter stopped for the night last night.  She and her sister (another granddaughter) have been wending their way across the country back home. It's a long drive - four days with only a few short sight-seeing detours.  How delightful it was to see them and share some conversation, food, laughter and hugs.  Hopefully in an hour or so we'll hear that they arrived home safely.

Took them - as seems to be a new tradition - to Astroburger last night.  Accompanied by our daughter and grandson.  The grandson went off for some fry sauce - came back with several small cups of fry sauce wearing ketchup smiley faces.  Made us all laugh.  I'm glad there are some creative members of our family!

Headed out this morning for our regular haircuts.  And I came home different!  I've been thinking of a bit of a change.  And spur of the moment did it.  Left the top the same length.  Went shorter around the ears and back of my head.  My ears are cold.

We've had more rain (The Husband collected several dozen snails for disposing) and more is predicted throughout the week.  I am so grateful for this moisture, it is so very welcome.

And I'm presently working on an attitude adjustment.  I'm too feisty sometimes - really dislike being told what to do.  And am continually amazed at adults who think it's perfectly acceptable to do just that to other adults.  Has happened to me more than once this week, despite a minimal amount of interaction with others.  I'm trying to look at this from a kinder perspective.  Having a little difficulty.  Will continue the effort.

Our tri-color beeches are so beautiful!  I was wondering this year how they'd do.  The topmost tree has just grown steadily more vibrant. Framed in the window as it is, it just grabs the eye in wonder. We've planted lots of trees over our marriage, in several yards. The ones we have in our current yard are some of my favorites - the beeches, the hawthorne, the norway spruce, the blue atlas cedar - I love them all.  I took this shot the other day - it's even more vivid and prettier now!

I'm grateful for accomplishing a bit of birthday shopping (June is our busiest month with multiple birthdays), for the sun that smiles down on us between rain squalls.  I'm grateful for friends that stop by for a visit.  For chocolate croissants (a favorite) and for those who never fail to support me.  What a treasure.

Peonies

The peonies not only survived the dividing / replanting, they seem to have thrived.  They're lovely!

Comfort Zone

Went with The Husband to the doctor today, he's grown weary of the constant noise in his ears, the result of being knocked off his feet when standing next to a huge industrial steam boiler when the relief valve blew - back when he was 19.  After years of being told there's nothing to be done, it was practically a joyful occasion to hear the doctor say there were a few things we could try to help alleviate the incessant vexation.  Things we will try.  It was nice to hear some hope.

Cute comfy foot coverings.

Had a phone conversation with a man today.  I'm so grateful for a man in my life that treats me like I matter. I'm not fond of being verbally compelled to succumb to an unreasonable request (demand?) And my sweet Husband just listened to my grief and agreed that it was wrong.  I need more patience - my church responsibilities often take me out of my comfort zone.

Had a chance to wear my newest shoes - a gift from The Husband.  Their color is a bit out of my comfort zone, but I had such fun wearing them today.

I'm grateful for kind young men at the grocery who go out of their way to find the yogurt I want. And then track me down in the store to make sure I get it.  That kind of kindness / consideration seems more and more rare.  (And I made sure to contact the grocery store to tell them what a great employee they have.)

And I'm grateful for hairspray for windy days like today. Messy hair is always out of my comfort zone.

Today's comfort zone is nowhere to be found.  Perhaps tomorrow.

And Another Week Begins

And I actually ended the last week with a smile.

Latest catch-basin decoration.

We had a rare Saturday at home - for several reasons, but not the least of which was the rainrainrain all day long.  On our way from an impromptu grocery run we drove past the catch basin by the high school.  And yep, that's right.  It's a clothes dryer.

Ooh, aah.

Unusually for me, Mother's Day was actually nice.  I've mentioned before how my most frequent emotion on this day is failure/inadequacy.  Not so yesterday.  We had a great Sacrament meeting, complete with talks not about how perfect some mothers are, but inspiring words about women in general; also particularly about the women/mothers from the bible.  Naomi's story has always been a favorite of mine.  After yesterday, even more so.

Was complimented on my choice of music for Sacrament meeting.  I resolutely refused to sing "Love At Home."  She thanked me, said she can't stand that song, but most especially on Mother's Day. And that was nice to hear. (Apparently, I did ok when choosing the songs.)

Beautiful work.

I received verbal love from each of my children.  Always a welcome gesture.  Also flowers, the aforementioned (and very appreciated) food gift card (from the kids who live far away), a new cookbook (to rejuvenate my cooking repertoire) and these beautiful hand-made crochet baskets. Thoughtful and delightful gifts all!  None of which is necessary, I never expect gifts and don't need a single thing.  So I look beyond the physical and seek the love that motivates the gift and my "heart is hugged" as I said yesterday.

The sun was shining early this morning as I left the house.  Our grass is lightly carpeted with the cotton from the cottonwood trees - it looks like only about half has come down and resembles snow as it drifts. I had a fun conversation with a sweet friend that I don't converse with near enough (lunch next week will be a treat!) and another with a dear who expressed her love for us both.  What a wonderful start to our week.

I'm so grateful for a weekend that didn't leave me tired or discouraged but smiling in my head (and even on my face when no one is looking). For kind souls who look past my uncountable faults and still manage to feel affection for me.  I'm planning for a nice week.

Friday,Friday

There is a duck on that middle rock!

And I'm thinking it'll be an interesting weekend.  It's supposed to rain, rain, rain on Saturday, our only day for errands/play/yardwork.  The Husband planned to work on the growboxes, but I think he's scrapped that idea.  The weather guy even said it was possible to wake up to snow on the valley floors.  Oy!  My annuals!

On my walk this morning I tried to get a shot of this cute duck just sitting on the rock in the middle of this catch-basin.  Can't really see the duck but got an awesome reflection of the mountains and clouds.  I was able to watch the muskrat go back and forth - the creek has been flowing fast and high with all our rain (yay! I'm so grateful for rain).  Today the mud had settled and the water was clear enough for the muskrat to enjoy his morning swim.  I loved watching him.

Eye candy.

Made a quick (though not cheap) run to Costco.  Was gone from the house about an hour, maybe a bit under.  And was I ever glad I made it quick.  It felt like Christmas there with all the hordes of people. Try as I did to get a picture of the flowers it wasn't possible without some dude or other inserting himself into my shot (deleted multiple pics because of some head or elbow or heinie).  It seemed like the flowers went as far as the eye could see - and this was only one side of the display.  The other side was equally beautimous and even more heavily peopled.

I received a gift for Mom's day in the mail - how thoughtful and kind - I'll thoroughly enjoy eating my way through the gift card.  The givers are on their way east for the college graduation of our oldest granddaughter. It'll be a treasured experience, I'm sure.  (I'm just hoping their plane's route will steer clear of all the tornadoes tormenting the plains states. Could be a riveting ride.)

I'm looking forward to a couple days with The Husband away from his computer.  How grateful we are for employment!  He still makes me laugh, after all these years.

I'm grateful for an awareness of our blessings,  Heavenly Father surely does love His children.

Words

 I've been thinking a lot lately about words and their power.

This a.m.'s lovely moon.

And remembering a conversation I had with a friend a bit ago.  About prayer.  We talked about vain repetition and motherly concerns. And about our love for God.

I pray every day. Multiple times.  I need that connection to our Heavenly Father. I pray for those I love - my husband, children and grandchildren.  I pray for help in being unselfish, courageous and optimistic. And for help to be kind.  I value kindness.

Unfortunately, I'm not always kind.  Sometimes I wish I could reach over and bop that other person on the head.  "Seriously - don't you - can't you ...?" (Isn't it interesting that I'm totally peeved with those who continually tell me what/how to be/do but have those very same impulses myself?)

Words have great power.  They can uplift, encourage and love.  They can hurt and wound. They can access the powers of Heaven.

I love this song - listen to it often. (While the conservative religious person in me wishes this song used respectful words when referencing our Heavenly Father, the message is still so valuable.)

Words (Official Music Video) - YouTube

The song is Words by Hawk Nelson, a Christian group.

I try every day to find some way to be kind.  It is an ongoing effort, one I hope to never abandon.

Cooking

I've never been much of a cook - haven't been too interested.  Just hasn't been my thing.  Lately, though, I've been tired of the same old, same old.  Been cooking the (mostly) same meals for nearly 45 years, ever since we were married.  Fortunately I'm married to someone who isn't too awfully picky about his food, and is happy to try anything new.  So tonight I'm trying something new - a chicken recipe from a dessert blog.  I guess we can't eat only sweets, though don't think I haven't tried that. (Stay tuned for the dump-or-keep the recipe assessment.)

Almost perfectly pink!

We really, though, attempt to eat very little sugar around here.  We definitely eat less sugary things than in years past.  Today, though, it was my pleasure to put together a birthday cake.  Just finished up the frosting. Now, I'm probably the most anti-frosting person there is. But if frosting is required, then it must be made-from-scratch.  I cannot abide that canned stuff. Today, I learned something new regarding chocolate frosting.  Fancy that.  I'm still learning.  At my advanced age.  Will wonders never cease! (Learned:  cream the cocoa powder and butter together before doing anything else, makes the frosting really smooth and creamy.  (And I'm probably the last person in the country to figure this out.)  Oh, and it helps to actually read / follow the recipe.)

Came home from my walk this morning and told The Husband that one of the bestest times to walk is the morning after a night of rain.  Absolutely heavenly.  I loved these irises.  The variegated ones are so pretty!

Our tri-color beeches have given us years of viewing pleasure.  We so love their spring finery.  I've been wandering past our large window for a couple weeks wondering out loud of this is going to be a bad year for those two trees.  They just looked....dull....brown.  We've had several days of sun / rain mix and since yesterday morning it seems the tree has turned a titch pinker by the hour.  It's starting to look glorious.  I so love it!

I'm so grateful for birthdays to celebrate.  And for early morning walks.

Pretty Much Caught Up

I worked and worked yesterday and managed to get all the critical things done.  Including errands. Yay for me!

Woke up this morning in a strange mood.  Wasn't interested in walking (that almost never happens to me!) or sleeping more, or doing much of anything.  Just wanted to lay there.  So I did...for a bit.

Decided later on that I really missed my morning walk.  I've been doing this so long that my day just doesn't feel right without my walk.  So off I headed to the library.  Had something to return and something to pick up and it's a beautiful day out.  Was passed on my way there by a young friend of ours from church.  He was skateboarding with a purpose, had somewhere to be.  Fun to see him!

Then, on my way home, I looked up and saw:  friends! A couple young mothers from our ward with their children (three between them).  I received welcome smiles all around, flirting from the little guy and kind conversation from the Moms.  How lucky they are to live near each other, and be able to go for walks together.  I don't really recall being in that position when our children were little.  I would have liked that.

Received this lovely cinerarium yesterday.  The Husband feeds my love of flowers.  Each time I walk in the room and see their burst of color it brightens my spirit.  Heavenly Father was so wise in his creation of blooms.

Remembered this morning that a ward member stopped me on Sunday.  She expressed thanks for the hymns that I have been choosing for Sacrament Meeting.  That totally took me by surprise. I guess maybe I can make a (very small) difference - I  did promise to do my best. If choosing familiar songs encourages our congregation to sing out their praises to Heavenly Father, then I shall continue that practice.  As much impact as good music makes to our souls, I'm convinced that heaven smiles when we raise our voices with joy.

I'm so grateful for inspiring music - when words combine with melodies to touch our very hearts.  I'm grateful for people who express kindness through words.  And for those who have magic in their fingers - whatever they touch just magically works / gets fixed / turns out beautiful.  I wish I had some magic, but since I can't I'm grateful I have access to someone who has those magic fingers.

I'm So Behind

Fri. night's moonrise

And I'll likely be "behind-er" because it takes me so long to put my thoughts out there.  But I'm just going to take the time.

Mon. a.m. moonset

The Husband arrived home safely Friday evening.  We had a quick bite, then took a bit of a drive, stopping in at several places, though I resisted spending money.  Yay for me:  I so dislike spending money.

Loved the tree against the sunrise

Saturday morning we spent some time working in the front gardens.  Planted some seed and zonal geraniums.  (Experimenting with the seed geraniums, decided they were so cheap we'd give them a try.  Hopefully I'll remember to post some after pictures - if, that is, they all survive my ministrations.) Our yard work also included planting a few other things (the ones in back will have to wait for another day), rose pruning / feeding.  And much "oh, my aching back" moaning.   My back isn't accustomed to bending over like that.  It rebels.  (Remnants of the car accident that fractured several vertebrae all those eons ago?) And excuse the blurriness of some of the pictures - when I crop them so much that's what happens, they lose their crispness!

Geraniums before they're really lovely

My be-loved Hawthorne tree.

Sunday was spent at church, playing again for Primary.

And the whole weekend we just wanted to be near each other.  I received a few hugs (though never enough) and some absolutely phenomenal foot rubs.

We saw our first hummingbird of the season - the feeder was put out just in time.  As well as enjoyed the jays that have visited our freshly supplied seed feeders.

Fun thing to get in the mail.

I shared a couple sentences with our R. S. president.  I loved her comment.  She mentioned some aches she gets when she eats too much sugar.  But said it was good that she knows right away. Unlike some other consequences of our actions that might take a long time to appear.  I liked that reminder that our actions pretty much always have some sort of consequence / effect.  Hopefully the best result will be our reward in the Hereafter.

And then I loved this quote that I heard yesterday:

I am careful not to confuse excellence with perfection. Excellence I can reach for; perfection is God's business.

Michael J. Fox

And now that I've spent far too long in front of this computer, I've got to get busy.  If I'm lucky, I'll finish most of it today.

I'm so grateful for the return of the resident prince, for a birthday to celebrate this week.  For clean clothes to fold.  For an electricity bill that was only $9.10. And for the hope of a heavenly reward at some long distant future date.

Friday

And what a great Friday it will be:  The Husband arrives home this afternoon!  Until then, I have some catching up to do - since I was gone all day yesterday -and lunch out with a friend.

Women's Conference yesterday was a delight.  Truly.  During the beginning session in the Marriott Center with me and 15,000 of my closest friends, we were encouraged to go out and "delight together."  I so loved that admonishment:  delight together.  What a fabulous way to live.

We didn't even take time for lunch, eating on the fly / standing in line between classes.  There were some lovely thought provoking words floating through the air just waiting for our hearts to reach out and grab them, hold them tight.

The weather was fabulous.  (Remembering past years when we trudged through the rain between classes - nowhere near as fun!)  There were more brownies around than I have ever before seen in one place.  And yes, I had a couple.  Along with a cookie and ice cream.  Women, when they're relaxed and enjoying themselves really do know how to consume those sweets.

There were lines everywhere:  at the vendor stalls, the eateries, for classes and - especially -  for the restrooms. And when the line for the restroom was simply too long for some to wait, they quickly ducked into the next restroom (for men only - and yes there were a few men around) in spite of signs warning them off.  Obedience isn't apparently a strong motivator when nature is not just calling but screaming its urgent message.

We laughed, we hugged, we chatted and chatted and chatted some more.  We worked on small "take and make" handwork which we often set aside to jot down a thought we wanted to always remember. We loved being together, the very air felt permeated with joy for life, for being a woman, and for our testimonies of the gospel of Jesus Christ.  None of us is even remotely perfect.  But I choose to believe that all of us were there for uplifting words, rejuvenation, encouragement and particularly with a desire to do better.  There is pretty much always room to do better.

Today's sunrise

Loved these iris.

This morning's walk provided me with an extension of that lovely mood I felt yesterday.  I even jumped out of my comfort zone and (very unusually for me) chatted with a stranger.  My walk often takes me past the high school in the early morning.  I nearly always see a man out walking the grounds with his bag, picking up trash.  I mentioned to him that I was pretty sure it wasn't in his job description. After he agreed that it wasn't but that "somebody has to do it" I told him I was impressed and that his good work was noticed.  Makes my heart happy to see someone doing something (completely unasked and without expectation of reward) to make their own small corner of the world as lovely as they can.  I think that small corner of his world is happy that he makes the effort.

Today I'm so grateful for opportunities to do better.  For uplifting experiences.  For sisters (all the females around me are sisters of one sort or another - blood relative, sisters as children of God, sisters in the gospel, sisters in spirit).  And especially for the love of our Heavenly Father. It gives me great hope.