Day 28

"There is coming a day, when no heartaches will come. No more clouds to dim the sky, no more tears to dim the eye. All is peace forevermore, on that bright and blessed shore. What a day, glorious day that will be!"

Day 28 - I am thankful for friends who blog, who give me encouragement and help me realize how important it is to voice our opinion on Christian themes. Sometimes I am afraid of what people will think, but I realize I only should care what God thinks. I love my Christian friends. They are truly like brothers and sisters to me. It is so helpful to know I can ask them to pray and I know they will. I love it that I have these brothers and sisters all over the world and some day we'll meet again in glory! What a day that will be!!!

Day 27

"For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Therefore, put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground., and after you have done everything, to stand." Eph. 6:12-13

Day 27 -There is so much evil in the world. I read about another person who is in the process of being declared a lifetime offender and who, once again, blames it on the abusive and horrible childhood he had. But, it really all comes down to choices, doesn't it? He didn't have to take that abuse and make it smolder inside of him, causing him such anger that he commits the sins he does. He could have decided to do something with his life and make something of himself. I am thankful for our free will. When we decide to follow Jesus, He puts His Holy Spirit within us to lead us and guide us down the correct path. We are gently nudged when things that would cause us to sin get in our way and we choose the right way to take. Well, most times we do and I believe the more we choose the right way, the more we feel the Holy Spirit leading us. The farther away we get from doing what is right, the harder it is to "hear" His still small voice. I am thankful that we are not forced into submission like a slave of old, but gently drawn to our Saviour by His loving, forgiving arms to be held there, like the true child of God that we are. Hallelujah for the birth, life, death, resurrection and coming again of our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ!

Day 26

"Sometimes I feel discouraged and I think my work's in vain. I'm tempted oft to murmur, to grumble and complain. But then, I think of Jesus and all He's done for me. And I cry, O Rock of Ages, hide thou me!"

Day 26 - I am thankful for today's technology. I remember a time when you had to phone someone over and over and over if you wanted to get hold of them and maybe they weren't home. You couldn't wait for them to get home and check their "messages" - no answering machines. Or wait until they checked their "call display" to see who had phoned, no display phones. Or "email" them or check on "facebook" to find out how they are doing, no internet. As we used to say in my day "We've come a long way, baby". Sometimes it is frustrating to have all this technology, but today when a friend of mine couldn't get in touch with her kids and was very worried (she lives far away), she contacted me on facebook to see if I knew where they were. She found out quickly that they were ok. I think of my camera, too. It wasn't that long ago that we took pictures and hoped they turned out ok (like on one's eyes were closed - right Jen?). Now, we hit the review button and we know exactly how they'll be. I've been working on our wedding album and some of our pictures were awful. Even the photographers! I really am thankful for today's technology that allows us the freedom to "talk" to people miles and miles away by phone, email, fb, skype, whatever you have. And to see those precious irreplaceable pictures right now. So cool!

(In case you are wondering why I put a verse or part of a song at the beginning of my blog - I decided to do it because one of the first verses was a favorite of mine. Then, I just did it with a verse that would come to mind during the day. Now, I've been doing with songs, as they come to mind, as well. Just something I do for me - and for you, too, enjoy!)

Day 25

Day 25 - A friend of mine said, "I'm glad I don't have to go out today. My work is at home." I have to say, I'm thankful for that as well. Like I said the other night, I'm not fond of winter and the boots and coats, etc. So, when it stormed all day yesterday and most of the night, making the side roads and alleys impassable, I have to say I'm thankful I didn't have to go out today. Tomorrow, however, is another story. I still have a dentist appointment, so I guess I'll splurge for a taxi and get my tooth fixed and come home. Sometimes, it is nice to have a warm apartment and not have to leave it.

Week 18-25 pictures

Monday 18th - I was watching Erin while Mom went to the dr. She wanted to watch "Little Mermaid". At the start, she didn't have her blanket. Then, Ursula, the sea witch, came on and she went and got it. Later, when Ariel and Eric got married, she put it on her head like a veil. When I was little, my cousin, Nancee and I, would put her big sister's petticoats on our heads to use as veils and play bride. Guess it never goes out of style! Tuesday 19th - I decided I had to get my craft table cleaned up. I usually just leave stuff out after I finish a project. So, I put away the stamps, inks, paper, cuttlebug and accessories and tidied up my table. Now it's ready for the next project.

Wednesday 20th - This is a Bluetooth device for using your cell phone in your vehicle. Dale has to use it for his job as supervisor, as he really seems to live in his truck. He hates the thing and started complaining about it before he even had to wear it! Then, when he WAS wearing it, it hurt his ear, was causing a callous, was sure it would cause cancer and was just generally a big nuisance! After almost a month, he is complaining less, but I know he still hates it!

Thursday 21st- These are my pain medication for my back. Weds. it started hurting a bit and by Thursday morning, I could barely move. They are supposed to be taken every 4-6 hours. If the pain isn't too bad, I can go 6 hours, but if it is really bad, like it was Thursday, I have to go to 4 hours. This makes me very groggy and not able to do much of anything that requires concentration. (So, no driving a car or a backhoe - I guess?) However, by Friday I was able to stop taking them, as I hadn't had to get up in the night to medicate. They are a wonder and I really depend on them when my back hurts!

Friday 22nd - After supper, Dale and I decided to go to Canadian Tire, as they had a super good deal on these 6-drawer organizers. Well, it was an experience to be sure. Couldn't find them, told there were 30, still couldn't find them, clerk went back and found them - not where she said they would be! C.T. is a very frustrating experience at the best of times. They are definately not well run, but I must say this sale was good! I got these to help organize my computer stuff and my card-making stuff. Now to just get them filled!

Saturday 23rd - We watched Xander and Evan while Mom and Dad went out for supper. Xander and I played "Go Fish" early in the evening. Later, Evan found the cards and wanted Papa to play "Go Fish" with him. His version is decidedly different than the real one. He asks for cards, but you can't. You just get to pick from the deck. It was so funny. And the best part for him was putting the cards back in the box and finding the jokers.

Sunday 24th - Dale invited the four older grandkids over to watch "Tailspin" with him. He had gotten the DVD for his birthday. It is a cartoon show that came out when our kids were younger and he used to watch it with them. Anyway, this is how 3 of the 4 watched most of it. One decided no way was he watching it and then about 2 minutes into it, he was sitting enthralled like the others! I think they liked it and there are still 2 more discs to watch!!

Monday 25th - This is what my car looks like after our big snow storm yesterday. We were snowed in big time. That is, our car and van were. There was NO getting out of the parkade at all! I stepped through the back gate to take a picture and there was a drift there that came up to my chest. I couldn't get a good picture of it - needed someone standing there for perspective. It was quite a storm.

Day 24

We had blizzard like conditions all around the province today. I am thankful that most people in Saskatchewan are smart enough to stay home when the weather is like this. One of my friends in Saskatoon said they couldn't get to church, but were able to listen to it on their phone. Dale and I were unable to go this morning, also. Our back alley was snowed in. He might have been able to shovel and get us out, but after being gone for close to 2 hours, it likely would have been blocked in again. So, we stayed home as well. We get weather like this once or twice or more over the winter and we are fairly used to it and try to be smart about it. It just makes me pray that those who aren't used to it will take precautions and not go out in it. Even though I dislike our winters, I am thankful they are fairly consistent and we know what to expect and how to deal with it. We had our grandkids over (their parents could get out) and Dale had a "Talespin" party with them. They watched one whole DVD of "Talespin" episodes and I think they were a bit over-stimulated. Hope their parents don't hold it against us. We all had fun! Isn't that the most important thing?

Day 22 & 23 - Thankfulness

"Blest be the tie that binds, Our hearts in Christian love. The fellowship of kindred minds, Is like to that above."

Day 22 - I knew this would happen. I just couldn't keep my eyes open last night and didn't get to blog. Dale says I am turning into a morning person! Oh please, not that!! Last night was our date night again. I realized as we sat eating that I was thankful for the table and chairs we were sitting at. For those of you who don't know, we don't have a table and chairs to eat on at our house. Well, we did, but it is now my craft table. You see, our apartment is very small and there really wasn't room for a table and chair set, but we did have a little one that no one was using from our move from a house to an apartment, so we had it scrunched into the living room. It was ok, but we didn't use it much for eating. Too tight a fit. Then, last year we bought a portable dishwasher with some Christmas money and had no room in the living room for it. So, the table got moved to our bedroom and the dishwasher took its place. In the spring we (and I mean, the kids and Dale and I) cleaned out the spare bedroom, put our table in there and my computer, but that still didn't free up the living room for an eating table, therefore we don't have one. So, last night as I sat at the restaurant table, I was very thankful for it. I could look across and "gaze lovingly" into the eyes of my sweetie and didn't have to do a balancing act on my lap. It is all very nice and I enjoy it for once-a-week. We get along very nicely without a table, but sometimes it is hard to eat that way and I long for a table. I got a little bed tray table at a garage sale for $1 last summer and the grandkids use it when they come. Little bodies can so easily sit on the floor!

"The B-I-B-L-E. Yes, that's the book for me. I stand alone on the word of God, the B-I-B-L-E."

Day 23 - Today I am thankful I am as old as I am. Not that getting older is so wonderful, but I realized as I watched a couple walking in the snow, struggling with their 3 under 5 (I'll bet) children all dressed in snowsuits, boots, etc., that I am glad I am over that part of my life. I dearly love my children and I loved them as youngsters, but every winter I would say over and over again - "I hate winter and boots and snowsuits, etc., etc.!" Now, when we have to go somewhere I only have to worry about what I am wearing and keeping myself upright on a snow sidewalk. I don't know how these people do it - to have their children in the late 40's and even 50's, as I would really hate to be running after kids right now. Even teenagers - no thank you! Anyway, I am glad I can say that, even with all the aches and pains we have as we get older and the stuff we complain about. But, I really am thankful I am the age I am.

Day - 21 Thankfulness

"There's a peace in my heart that the world never gave A peace it cannot take away. Though the trials of life may surround like a cloud I've a peace that has come there to stay. Constantly abiding, Jesus is mine. Constantly abiding, rapture divine. He never leaves me lonely Whispers oh so kind 'I will never leave thee' Jesus is mine."

Day 21 - Today I am thankful for antihistamines. I have been taking them for years for my sinuses. I inherited my dad's hay fever, only mine is all year 'round and I am constantly taking something to clear up the stuffiness, etc. Today, after supper, my nose started itching. You know the saying, "Itchy nose, kiss a fool"? Well, there were no fools around (and no Dale is NOT one!), so I just scratched. I've had my regular rash for months now, but the itchy nose was new. Plus, the rash started itching and my back and almost everywhere - eyes running and itching, too. Couldn't figure out what in the world was wrong. Finally, I decided to take a Reactine, just to see if it would help. Lo and behold about an hour later I realized I was itching anymore. So, I guess something caused a wierd allergic reaction. We hadn't eaten anything different or unusual for supper, so don't know what caused it, but I am thankful for the antihistamine. They have come a very long way since I used them when I was a teen and the non-drowsy is probably the best. I really don't know what people did before antihistamines, however, maybe there weren't as many things to react to way back then. Except dust and pollen, but who knows, it was SO prevalent, maybe it just didn't bother them. Hmmm...

Day 20 - Thankfulness

Day 20 - Today I am thankful for understanding friends. Winter seems to be the time of the year when I am the most fatigued. I don't sleep well and don't have the energy or the desire to do much of anything. I want to do things, I don't feel ill, I just can't. I was supposed to go to a digital scrapbooking workshop tonight, but I just don't think I can do it. Last night was another sleepless night and I had a 2 hour nap this morning, but I am still so very tired. Thankfully, my friend understands and says it's ok. I also have Care Group tomorrow night and I want to go, but I'll have to see what tomorrow brings. I know if I just can't, the "girls" will understand and I'll be prayed for. It's hard having a chronic illness, but I truly am thankful that people understand when I have to say "no". Thanks friends (and family, too, of course!).

Day 19 - Thankfulness

"On a hill far away stood an old rugged cross, The emblem of suffering and pain. And I love that old cross where the Dearest and Best For a world of lost sinners was slain."

Day 19 - Today I am thankful for a broken dryer. Ha! Anything to get out of housework, right? Well, I could use a dryer on another floor, but it is Dale's work jeans I need to wash and today my back was so sore and I knew lugging those heavy jeans upstairs wouldn't help. So, I opted not to wash them. I'm hoping my back will feel better tomorrow and I'll be able to do it. Now for those of you who are very observant you will notice this blog was not drafted on the 19th, but on the 20th. To tell you the truth I totally forgot about it in the evening when I usually do it. But, it is 4 a.m., so it really is still Tuesday night. Ha!

A broken dryer doesn't seem like something to be thankful for, does it. Well, it did to me when I read the note on Monday and had to go up a floor to dry the shirts I had washed. I am thankful, too, for the elevator, otherwise, I wouldn't be going upstairs for anything! But, that's another day - maybe tomorrow.

Day 18 - New format

I have decided to combine my daily pictures and only blog them once a week. So, next Monday look for this week's pictures (day 18-24). I think it will be better, as I am not usually thankful for the same thing I take a picture of and I think it will help in the continuity. That said...

Day 18 - Thankfulness

Today I am thankful for committment. I was picking up medicine at the drugstore yesterday and noticed a magazine I usually buy was on the newstand. I picked it up and saw who was on the cover and put it back in the rack. This is a couple who profess to be believers (she does for sure and I'm pretty sure I've heard him say it, too). She was married before and declared a few years back how he was her soul-mate, their love would never end, their marriage was so wonderful and their belief was such a big part of their marriage. It wasn't more than a year later that we heard they were divorced. I don't remember the details (who let whom, etc), but it really irks me when people publicly profess to be Christians and have wonderful marriages, with belief so important and then get divorced. Now she is married to another person and of course, she is saying the same thing. My sister's husband left her for another woman. He really did a number on her mentally and emotionally. I don't think she's ever been the same. It took me a very long time to finally give all my hatred and loathing for him to the Lord, as it was making me so miserable. When I was in KC a few years back, Trudy and I were taking her wedding pictures out of the old album to put them into an acid-free one (for the girls to keep I guess) and it struck me how her ex really didn't live up to his end of the vows he said in front of witnesses and before God. Now whenever I hear vows I wonder if this couple are really listening to what they are saying and are going to make this a lasting committment. Dale and I have been married 37 years. We have not had a perfect marriage and there were times when we could easily have thrown in the towel. But, we were and are committed to this marriage and to making it work. Did we really understand what our vows of committment meant when we made them? Probably not. We didn't have pre-wedding sessions with our pastor like couples do today, so we probably weren't 100% prepared for all the struggles we would face. We were in love and that was all that mattered. But, over the years and throughout the struggles, we have recommitted ourselves to each other and to making this marriage work. When Paul wrote in I Corinthians 7 about marrying or not marrying, he was right on the money. I kind of chuckled when I read this not too long ago. Verse 28 says "...but those who marry will face many troubles in this life and I want to spare you this." He was right. But I pray that no matter what happens in the next years, we'll be able to look back and say it was all worth it and we'd do it again. So, I am thankful for committment. I hope you are, too.

Day 17 - Thankfulness and Picture

"Great is Thy Faithfulness, O God, my Father. There is no shadow of turning with Thee. Thou changest not, Thy compassions they fail not. As Thou has been, Thou forever will be." Day 17 - Thankfulness - I am thankful for the songwriters who wrote the hymns and songs we love to sing and hear. Whenever I feel down in the dumps, the first thing I love to do is listen to hymns or other cd's with Christian singing on them. I am so thankful these men and women listened to the Holy Spirit when he put these songs in their hearts and on their minds. The one I quoted above is my favorite. When we had our house fire, we sang it on the first Sunday morning after the fire. I cried all the way through it, but the words were so true for us. And they have been true my whole life. God, my heavenly Father, has been so faithful to me - never turning away, never changing. He is my strength and my light! "Praise God from Whom ALL blessings flow!" Day 17 - Picture This picture is what I installed today on my computer. It is a scanner/printer. I have wanted one for a long time to get a lot of pictures put on my computer to use and to preserve. It works pretty well and so far, I am pleased with it!

Day 16 - T & P

"Praise God from Whom all blessings flow. Praise Him all creatures here below. Praise Him above you heavenly hosts. Praise Father, Son and Holy Ghost. Amen" Day 16 - Thankfulness -

I am thankful today for something I call "Papa Time". It is the time Dale gets to spend with his grandsons. They get to know him and play with him and learn to love him. I love watching him play with the grandsons. He makes them peanut butter and honey sandwiches and tries really hard to make them and cut them the right way. He gets up with them in the night and generally does everything with them. Not that he doesn't have "Papa Time" with the girls as well, but Erin rarely will talk to him or look at him (or just about any man for that matter), but Bethany will do stuff with him. Just not too much "boy" stuff. They usually aren't here unless I am, however, the boys can be here without me being here. He loves being with them, but feels his age afterward. That's my one big regret about my kids and my dad. They never really got to know him very well. He was wonderful with his other grandkids and with mine as well, whenever we were together. We were just too far away to see each other often and then he was taken way too soon. Guess they'll just have to catch up in heaven. Anyway, I am thankful Dale has the health and time to be with the boys as much as he wants. God is good.

Day 16 - Picture - Dale took most of the pictures of he and Xander playing together. They got up together really early, so I had to quick grab a few after I got up and before Jason and Sandra came to pick him up. Here they were playing "Candyland". Dale said they played "Mousetrap", "Nascar Monopoly" and they tried to play "Racko". Great fun!

Day 15 - Thankfulness and Picture

II Corinthians 3:18 "But we all, with an unveiled face, beholding as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory, just as by the Spirit of the Lord."

Day 15 - Thankfulness -

Today I am thankful for the fellowship of good friends. Jodi and I went to our stamp club tonight. We do this once a month and we have such a good time. The ladies range in age from probably early 30's to late 50's. We are all from different backgrounds and have very different interests (other than card-making), but we get along really well and laugh and joke and just have a good time. That's the same all over the world I am sure, whenever Christian women and men get together. There is a comradery there that no one else shares. We are truly one in Christ. It's the same whenever we got back to Kansas City or to a family reunion with the Lofgren's. (Dale's mom's side) It's like we've never been apart and we can talk about all sorts of things and especially the things of the Lord and it all seems right. Won't heaven be a marvelous homecoming for us all?? I know I can hardly wait!

Day 15 - Picture -This wasn't the picture I was originally going to use, but it is too sweet not to. We have Xander overnight tonight. His first sleepover at our place. So, we thought, as a treat, we'd take him to McDonald's for supper. He liked the food, wasn't too keen on the toy and even let me take a picture of him! Then Dale took him into the play area to play. The structure is huge and I totally can see how a little kid could be intimidated by it. I had told Dale earlier it might be easier for him if he had an older kid with him to "show him the ropes". I hate to say it, but I was right. He went into the structure, but only climbed up one level before coming down and out and wouldn't go back in. This is Papa trying to explain how easy it was. They were watching a boy of about 6 going up with a little girl of 2 or 3. You can see how he is pondering the situation. Finally, he went in and the other boy asked if he could help. So, he climbed up and Xander climbed up behind him and once he'd gone across the "bridge" and gone down the slide, he was an old pro. Last count was about 15 times when I had to leave. Such fun!

Day 14 - Thankfulness and Picture

Deuteronomy 4:9 - "Only be careful and watch yourself closely so that you do not forget the things that your eyes have seen or let them slip from your heart as long as you live. Teach them to your children and to their children after them."

Day 14 - Thankfulness -

Today is Jennifer's birthday. We were honored to be asked to accompany her and Craig to Applebee's for supper and then over to their house for cake and presents. Am I thankful for Jen? You bet your life I am!! But, earlier today I was almost going to say "I'm thankful for 7-11". Here's the story -

I asked Jen if she wanted to come over here after supper for cake. Well, she said, we could go to their place if we wanted. Then she reminded me (as if I'd EVER forget) that she likes rainbow bit frosting on her cake. So, thinking I really didn't want to make a cake, I asked if a Dairy Queen cake would be ok. I could tell she reluctantly said yes. Later, thinking about it, I realized that she and Dale both have trouble with lactose intolerance, so a DQ cake wouldn't be the greatest thing for her bday. And, she is my daughter and it's her bday and I should make her what she wants. So, I went out this a.m. and bought a chocolate cake mix and rainbow bit frosting. I got home right before Dale came for lunch, so thought I'd wait until closer to 1 to make the cake. I turned on the oven and started getting ingredients together and - OH NO! I had made hard-boiled eggs earlier in the week because I hadn't had them for awhile and now there were NO EGGS! Any other time there would be LOTS! Well, I really didn't want to go to a grocery store, so trudged over to 7-11 and picked up a dozen. The whole time I'm walking I'm thinking, the way this day has been going, I'll slip and fall and break all the eggs. I played ever scenario I could think of over in my mind until I got home. After mixing the batter - which seemed thin - and baking it - it came out ok -I let it cool and got out the frosting. Hmmm, it looked pretty runny! I put it on the cake and quickly put the whole thing in the fridge. It actually turned out all right - all that worry for nothing!

So, that's why I was thinking I'd be thankful for 7-11. But no, I am so very much more thankful for Jen! She is my baby so a little bit more special (you moms know how it is). She turned 30 today. She has become the wonderful, beautiful Christian woman we prayed she would become. We have seen her grow physically and spiritually and it has been a joy to be a part of her journey. She has had so many good times and bad times, too, but continues to love the Lord and serve Him. She is an Educational Assistant at one of our christian schools here in Regina and her husband, Craig is one of the pastors at our church. She has a beautiful singing voice and uses this for the Lord's glory as well on one of our worship teams. She teaches SS and the kids love her. We are proud to be her parents and we love her dearly. I decided to get her moccasin slippers this year, as her feet get so cold. Also found a puzzle with giraffes on it to remind her and Craig of Africa. She got her dad laughing at one of the presents from a friend of hers and Craig had to show him some pictures on the computer that were funny as well. Dale told some more apartment stories and we had a good time. Jen is off now with her best girls for some alone time this weekend. Have fun girls!!! Love you very much, my Jen. Day 14 - Picture - Today's picture is, of course, of Jen and her cake. And yes, her eyes ARE open! Such a pretty smile!

Day 13 - Thankfulness and Picture

Exodus 34:6 - "And He passed in front of Moses saying, 'The Lord, the Lord, the compassionate and gracious God, slow to anger, abounding in love and faithfulness'."

Day 13 - Thankfulness - Today I am thankful for pictures. I wish they had had cameras in Jesus' time, as I would love to see pictures of Him and His apostles and friends and family. Wouldn't it be so neat to actually see what they all looked like, how they dressed, the activities they did, etc? I do. What would we do without pictures? I have gotten into digital scrapbooking and making up books for the pictures I take. I made a book of our vacation trips last July and September; I made and framed scrapbook pages of pictures for each of the grandchildren and I'm working on a few other projects. I love looking back and seeing how different everyone looks. Lots of memories in those pictures. I am thankful for George Eastman for being the real pioneer of photography by making film and the Kodak camera (that's what I use and I love it!) I just think it is so neat the different ways we can use pictures and the fun people get looking at them. Today I saw the pictures of a friend's wedding I hadn't been able to attend and it was neat to see how she did her wedding. I am really thankful for pictures.

Day 13 - Picture - Today, I visited my friend, Susan, in order for her to scan some pictures for me. I want to make another book, but these pictures are old and I didn't have a disc to transfer the onto my computer. She is into digital scrapbooking, too, so showed me some tricks and things she had been working on. We had a really good afternoon together and I got a couple of good pictures to show for it. Thanks Susan!

Day 12 - Thankfulness and Picture

Day 12 - Thankfulness -

Today, I am thankful for our daughter-in-law, Sandra. It is her birthday. She and Jason, our oldest child and only son, were married in May, 2002. They met here in Regina at our church. We had moved here from Humboldt in Aug, 1993. Sandra came down to go to the U of R, but I'm not sure if it was that fall or the next one. Anyway, they were in activities together at church and started dating. The one funny story I have about Sandra is this - Jason phoned to ask if he could bring Sandra over for supper one night when we were b-b-qing. Well, you'd have thought it was the queen coming! We were so excited and rushed around picking up and cleaning up a little and dressing a little nicer. Sandra said she was nervous and then she had to sit on the floor to eat supper and worried about spilling on the carpet. It all worked out fine and although Jason seemed to take forever to "pop the question", they finally got married and have given us 2 adorably cute grandsons, Xander and Evan. Another baby is on the way in May.

Now that the background is over, I'll tell you why I am thankful for Sandra. She is very sweet, loving and kind. She fits in well with our family and is a wonderful mother and wife. We are proud to have her in our family. She is creative and uses her creativity to the joy of those around her. You have to see her pictures! They are awesome! She loves the Lord and is serving Him in different capacities in the church. I really love her as if she were my own daughter and I am very thankful for her. Happy Birthday, Sandra!!

Day 12 - Picture -

There are two pictures here, but only one is really for today. This first picture is of the card I made for Sandra's birthday. I liked the way it turned out.

This is today's picture. I went down to where Sandra works and gave her some flowers and her card. Her "real" present hasn't come yet. She graciously posed for the picture for me - thank you, Sandra!!

Day 11 - Thankfulness and Picture

I Corinthians 15:10 - "But by the grace of God I am what I am, and His grace to me was not without effect...yet not I, but the grace of God that was within me."

Day 11 - Thankfulness -

Today I am thankful for my hobby. I used to do cross-stitching, but it got very hard to focus on such small stuff. So, I did crossword and other types of puzzles. That was all well and good, but it gets a little boring and there is nothing there to inspire creative juices. I am creative and I really had not outlet for my creative side. Jodi started going to a stamp club when Sarah B. was a Stampin' Up dealer and she really enjoyed it. I would look with awe at the gorgeous cards she made. Then Sarah moved away and Edie V. had clubs, so I decided to join one. It was amazing what you could do with card stock and stamps. I loved it. So, I've been doing this for about 3 years now and thoroughly enjoy it. I find it relaxing (when I am not stuck on a design) and it something that Jodi and Jen and I share. Jen is more into scrapbooking, but it uses a lot of the same techniques and equipment. I love hearing people say how pretty my cards are and I have been able to use this as a ministry as well, with sympathy, get well and thank you cards. I even have "taught" a couple of classes with my care group and we've had such fun doing it. Sometimes when I'm not feeling great and find I am too tired to move out of my chair, I grab the spiral notebook I keep nearby and a pencil and start sketching designs for cards. I really believe the Lord gives us the talent or love of creativity and I'm so thankful I can use it in this way. Day 11 - Picture -

OK, this picture wasn't taken today, but it is a card I made for a baby shower that I really like. The two cards I made today are for Sandra and Jen's birthdays and if I put them here, they'd see them. I will put them on Tuesday and Thursday, as I am really pleased how they turned out, as well.

I had a little help with this one. I had the background purple done and the purple/green squares, but couldn't decide what to put in them. I think I had the baby idea or Jen came up with it or it was a joint effort - I don't remember, but Jen did come up with the "welcome baby" strip and I really like it. I hope you do, too.

Day 10 - Thankfulness and Picture

Acts 15:8 - "God who knows the heart, showed that He accepted them by giving the Holy Spirit to them, just as He did to us."

Day 10 - Thankfulness -

Today I am thankful for the Holy Spirit. I realized as I listened to Pastor Bill's message this morning that, not only did the Holy Spirit give the men of the Bible the words to say to write the Bible, but now He gives the men who are our pastors the passages to preach from, the words to say that encourage us, strengthen us, turn us to the Lord, etc., etc. I am truly thankful for the words I hear that speak to me. I know it is only by the Holy Spirit that these men preach and we understand. God is so good to us.

Day 10 - Picture - This is one of our church buses. We park in the parking lot of the Laval School down the street from our church and the buses come and pick us up. Every once in awhile, Dale and I, Jodi and Steve and family and Jason and Sandra and the boys take the bus back to our cars at the same time. We almost fill half of the bus. I took pictures of the kids, but couldn't use them all, so decided on this one. I happened to get two of my friends in the picture at the same time - Marlene Schulz and Charlene Hunter. Sometimes it is cold waiting for the bus to come, but it is always warm inside and we are greeted by a smiling driver.

Day 9 - Thankfulness and Picture

I Peter 1:15-16 "But just as He who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do; for it is written, "Be holy because I am holy"."

Day 9 - Thankfulness -

I am thankful today for being a part of history. Tonight, we were honored to have the Olympic Torch pass right by our apartment building. It was a very exciting night with Jason, Sandra, Xander, Evan, Jodi, Steve, Lucas, Bethany and Erin joining us on the 2nd floor balcony to view the event. It was pretty cold, but it was neat to see the torch go past. It got handed off to the next person just a block down from us and we could sort of see it. The Olympics is only every 4 years and Canada doesn't have it that often. So, we felt privileged to be able to see this little bit of history unfold in front of us. What fun, also, to see the kids' expressions! We all really enjoyed it!

Day 9 - Picture -

But, of course, the picture has to be of the torch going by. It's not a great picture, but it does show up and you can see the torch and the person carrying it. It will be one of my favorite moments for awhile - except it was pretty cold, but that's ok.

Day 8 - Thankfulness and Picture

Psalm 57:10 - "For great is Your love, reaching to the heavens; Your faithfulness reaches to the skies." Day 8 - Thankfulness - Today is Friday, our regular date night. We call it that, even though we really don't go and do date things. All we do is go out for supper and spend the evening together at home. So, I could say I am thankful for our date night, but that is too broad. So, I'll divide it up and use different parts on different Fridays. Today, I am thankful I am not cooking. I don't mind cooking. I don't like cleaning up after I cook, but I guess that is why the meals I prepare are relatively simple. Dale seems to like my cooking. He compliments me when it is good and that usually means the old standby - meat and potatoes. He doesn't like fancy food, but he doesn't mind different foods, either. He will eat rice if I make it with something that has a sauce with it (like sweet and sour chicken) and he likes macaroni and cheese, so I can't say we don't have variety. I just get tired of having to decide what I'm going to make and then figure out if I have what I need and do it all in time for it to get done on time. So, for one day a week, I don't have to cook or make sure there are leftovers or something else to eat in the kitchen. I can relax and let someone else cook and clean up. Yep, I am truly thankful when I don't have to cook. Day 8 - Picture - Since this is our date night, I took a picture of where we ate out. At their Christmas party, Dale got a gift card from Regina Housing Authority for working for them for 5 years (even though it was really 6). It was for Applebee's. Dale decided this was where he wanted to eat tonight. It was pretty busy, but being only 2 of us, we got seated right away. We ate some appetizers and then got our main meal. We both ordered steak and boy, was it ever yummy! I mean melt-in-your-mouth good!! I felt like the cartoon dog who took a bite of his treat and went "Mmmm - mmmm - mmmm" and then soared up to the sky and came down slowly, ah-h-h-ing all the way. It was THAT GOOD!! It was bitterly cold out and I had to take off my glove to get the picture, but I think it is pretty good for the speed in which I took it. I was happy it turned out and I didn't have to take another one.

Day 7 - Thankfulness and Picture

Ephesians 5:1-2 "Be imitators of God as dearly loved children and live a life of love, just as Christ loved us and gave Himself up for us a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God." Day 7 - Thankfulness - Today I am thankful for mercy. The dictionary defines it as "compassionate or kindly forbearance shown toward an offender, enemy or other person; benevolence, pity, compassion." The case with Eric Tillman has made me think about mercy. God's mercy, not man's mercy. Man's mercy is based on whether or not he/she wants to forgive us and be merciful when we've wronged them. God's mercy is based on what Christ has done for us. He has already forgiven us our sins and is merciful if we accept the gift of His Son. Sometimes I have a hard time grasping how merciful God is when I foul up so badly. But, He is always ready to forgive us if we come to Him and ask for it. It is amazing to me how patient He is with us. Shouldn't our being merciful be the same? I think we should realize how much it cost the Lord God to send His Son as a sacrifice for us and that should help us to be merciful when the occasion calls for it. "Thank you, Lord for the mercy You have shown to us over and over and please help us to give back to others in the same way." Day 7 - Picture - I can't believe I took this picture, but it was so cold today and my back and pain pills kept me from going outside or anywhere else. Jodi and family went to Disney World before Christmas and I asked them to buy me a set of Minnie Mouse ears. I had a pair when I was a kid and I've always wanted another. I loved the Mickey Mouse club and watched it every day. I still remember the "Adventures of Spin and Marty" and the stories with Annette Funicello. And, of course, the cartoons with Mickey, Donald, Minnie and Chip and Dale (my favorites). It's all a part of my childhood - plus it's the only hat that actually fits and looks half-decent on me! Ha!!

Day 6 - Thankfulness and Picture

Luke 12:17 "Indeed the very hairs on your head are all numbered. Don't be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows." Day 6 - Thankfulness - I think I just have to be thankful today for my personality. I am an optimist. The dictionary says an optimist is "a person who usually expects a favorable outcome". My glass is half full; there's always tomorrow; think positively and all that stuff. I am very happy being this way (well, I guess I would be, wouldn't I?) Sometimes it gets me into trouble (I'm an impulse buyer and sometimes don't think before I act - but age has helped this), but usually it works out ok. Just because I am optimistic doesn't mean things are always bright and rosy - they aren't, but I can sort of handle most things a little easier because I know it will all work out in the end. Fortunately for me, I have a pessimist for a husband. Yep, fortunately. I truly believe we compliment each other. His pessimism holds down my over-enthusiasm and my optimism helps him remember it isn't always bad. I know I'm not explaining this the way I should and if you are an optimist, you'll understand where I'm coming from. You pessimists will just have to take my word for it. I am thankful God made me optimistic. I like looking on the bright side. Oh and it isn't true that optimists have fewer ulcers and stomach ailments. But, I think it is hereditary. It's not that I don't worry, it's that I don't usually let it consume me and can trust the Lord to take care of things. So, thank you Lord for making me an optimist! Day 6 - Picture

This is my hairdresser. Her name is Roxanne and I really like her. She has been doing my hair for about 10 years now and knows exactly how I like it. I thought I'd get a picture of myself with my hair in perm rollers, as this is a big part of my life about 2 or 3 times a year. But, I look really bad in the picture. Not, a "bad-hair-day" bad (pun intended), but "rash- and ugly-marks-on-face-day" bad. So, I found this setting on my Kodak picture thing and put my picture in "coloring book" mode. At least you can tell I have perm rollers in my hair, but you can't see how horrid my eyes and mouth look. Ha! Neat, huh? It's qutie an ordeal to get me ready for the solution, as Roxanne and I smear zincofax all over my hairline and ears to keep the solution from irritating the rash. But, it gets the job done and I'd have an "after" picture for you, but didn't get Dale to do one before he went to bed. Believe me it looks better than the before!!!

Day 5 - Thankfulness and picture

Psalm 16:7 "I will praise the Lord, who counsels me; even at night my heart instructs me."

Day 5 Thankfulness -

Today was a hard day to find something specific to be thankful for. But, I finally decided on my little apartment. I am thankful for my little apartment. Hmmm, that seems odd even as I type it. For anyone who has ever been to our apartment or heard me talk about it, you know that the one thing I have never been "fond" of (to say the least) is our little apartment. But, today I realized I AM thankful for it. Oh there are still things I would love to change, but that is neither here nor there. I like the fact that it is small and therefore much easier to clean. As I told you the other day, my ankle has been bothering me, so having a small apartment makes it easier to get around - not so much walking. And then, tonight, I was in the living room seeing if there could possibly be anything interesting on TV and I called to Dale to watch Nova on channel 20 without getting up or shouting really loudly to be heard.

You may think all this is sort of silly, but as I get older, I find doing things quicker and easier is so much more enjoyable. Some days, when I'm not feeling well, even my small apartment seems huge, so think how much bigger it would feel if it WAS bigger! Dale doesn't think I can be thankful for something I complain about all the time. HE-HE-HE-HE (that's a Dad Berkan evil laugh, in case you missed it) Who hasn't complained about something they are thankful for?

So, even when I complain about my little apartment, I truly am thankful for it.

Day 5 Picture -

Speaking of things to complain about - SNOW!! I've done my share as much as anyone, but watching the snow coming down softly today was so pretty. I couldn't get a decent picture of it gently falling - my camera wouldn't "stop action" fast enough. But, I got this picture of the evergreen outside our living room window and thought it looked pretty. Enjoy!

Day 4 - Thankfulness and picture

Micah 6:8 - "He has shown you, O man, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God."

Day 4 - Thankfulness and picture

Today I am thankful for making memories. I got to go "out" with my Stasiuk girls today. Jodi and I did a little shopping at Walmart and then we all went to see "The Princess and the Frog". I love going to the movies with the little girls. Their expressions and excitement is contagious and we have great fun. The movie was pretty good, too and they liked it. It was hilarious to see them during the previews at the beginning. It was "too loud", so they covered their ears. Bethie finally uncovered hers after the movies started, but it was a long way into it before Erin took her hands down. So cute. I guess every time I am with our grandchildren or the girls and I do something, it will be making a memory and I am thankful for all those times. As you get older, it is hard to remember things that happened. I have to keep asking "Have I told you this before?" Hard to remember who I told what to. Anyway, memories are made to be enjoyed and I do enjoy mine!! Thanks girls for a wonderful day!!

Day 3 - Thankfulness and picture

Psalm 104:1 "Praise the Lord, O my soul. O Lord my God You are very great; You are clothed with splendor and majesty."

Day 3 Thankfulness

Today I am thankful for shiny things. I truly believe that God in His goodness has given us things in nature that are beautiful and that we are supposed to enjoy looking at. I LOVE shiny things. I like stars that twinkle, gems that glitter, the way the new snow looks when the sun shines on it, the leaves that sparkle with dew or raindrops, icicles shining in the sun. I just love shiny things. I was watching a documentary on the crowning of Queen Elizabeth II and I thought, "My granddaughters would love to see this!" Her crown was sparkling with jewels, as was the scepter and other things that were used in the ceremony. The queen mother, Queen Elizabeth, sparkled, as did the Queen's sister, Princess Margaret. It is no wonder we are enthralled with all this pomp and circumstance. It glitters and is so gorgeous! The Bible says that Heaven will be like that -all sparkle and glitter with gold and jewels. I guess that is why God put them here on earth to enjoy and for us to get a taste of the kingdom to come. So, the next time I see something shiny, I'm going to think of Heaven and thank God for it (the shiny thing and heaven, too).

Day 3 Picture - This is one of my favorite mugs I use to drink coffee with. It was given to me by a very good friend, just because she knew I liked to watch the commercials with the M&M candies in them and she thought of me when she saw this. How sweet is that? Well, the first time Lucas saw it, he was quite perturbed that I would have such a thing in my house, let alone be using it! And why? Because the "Punk of NASCAR" and the racer none of the boys like is Kyle Busch and he drives the M&M car! Oh well, it is still one of my favorite mugs!

Day 2 - January 2nd

Psalm 139:23 "Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts." (NIV)

Picture for Day 2:

Dale and I went on our "date" today. We usually go on Friday nights, but it was WAY too cold yesterday. It was almost too cold today, but we had to go out and get groceries and the medication we had gotten refilled, so we decided to go for brunch. I'm not a big brunch person, so ended up with a small senior's skillet of scrambled eggs, ham, sausage, hashbrowns and cheese with 2 strips of bacon on top. Hmmm - not terribly cholesterol-friendly or diet-friendly, but I didn't eat it all (I rarely do) and Tuesday the holidays are officially over and there will be no more snack food or "bad" foods in the house! That's good, because I actually feel like I've had my fill! Anyway, this is sort of indicative of the type of thing we go out for on our "dates". It's more a chance for me to not have to cook and us to spend some "US" time, so we usually eat somewhere not too expensive, with home-type cooking. Dale figured they would think I worked for a magazine or restaurant critic or something when I pulled out my camera, but I don't think anyone noticed.

What I am thankful for today - On Weds., we went to the visitation of a friend who passed away this past week. After we got home, I took off my boots and noticed the back of my ankle hurt whenever I put my weight on it. It seemed to get worse as the night when on and the next day I had to find my cane and use it as it was really painful to walk. Jodi and the kids came over New Year's Eve in the afternoon and it was just a bit sore. I was limping a little until later in the afternoon when it started hurting again really bad. Nothing seemed to help and it wasn't swollen or red, so I didn't know what, if anything, I had done. It was very painful all the next day and Dale willingly waited on me when it was too sore to walk on. This morning it seemed a bit better. We were going out and I put on my boot. It felt fine - well, just a little sore. I used my cane and it seemed to be ok. So, as we were coming home, I told Dale, today I am thankful for my boots. Not only do they keep my feet relatively warm in the winter and have very good traction, but today, they allowed me to go do the shopping we needed to do. I have to admit it started being a little sore again after we got home, but actually was good until I came in here to sit at the computer. But, I am still thankful for my boots. They are like a good husband - they keep me warm, they support me and help me to keep from falling sometimes. And, like my good husband, I always know where they are when I need them. Thank you, Lord, for my boots.