Nana's Notes

Getting caught up...

2011-11-30T21:14:00.000-06:00

Yikes! Can't believe the last time I posted was September! Where has the time gone?

So, what's been happening since I last posted? Well, let me see...my MIL fell on September 7th and broke her hip. She was in the hospital for several days and had to have an operation. Thankfully, it was just a fracture repair and not a whole hip replacement. Then she was in rehab for almost two months. Now she has PT at home a couple days a week. She's doing just fine! She's a tough, stubborn 92 year old!!

Having her in the rehab took up most of our time as we visited her just about every day. Once in awhile our daughter would visit which gave us a break. While she was there my BIL from AZ visited. He was scheduled to visit prior to her falling and decided to come anyway.

While this was going on, I did manage to get the Fall gardening done. I had a bunch of trees and perennials I had bought on sale that I finally got planted.

Then, it was time for Thanksgiving. My BIL from FL came to visit for the week. We didn't tell my MIL he was coming so it was quite a surprise for her to see him walk in the door! While he was here we took him to see the Opryland Hotel, which is always a beautiful place to visit and especially at this time of year when it's all decorated for Christmas. Going to the Hotel is a family tradition, though my MIL didn't go this year. We always have a picture taken at the poinsettia tree, which is what it sounds like..a huge tree made from poinsettias! Absolutely gorgeous.

Another day we took Stew to the George Dickel Distillery. Gene & I have been to the Jack Daniels Distillery. This tour was basically the same, but on a much smaller scale. It's an interesting freebie to do.

I cooked Thanksgiving dinner and the TN family came to our house. There was plenty to eat! Next year I'm hoping we'll have a deep fryer and will be able to make deep fried turkey. Ummm ummm good! If you've never had it, give it a try. It's delicious! I remember the first time I heard about it, I pictured it being so greasy, but it isn't at all. The skin is nice and crispy but the meat inside is so tender and juicy with no grease at all.

I started my Christmas decorating the other day. It's been raining all week until today so tomorrow I plan to do the outside. I have all the gifts wrapped that I have bought so far. Still have some more shopping to do but most of it is done. Been making my Christmas cards in between other things and have quite a few done. I haven't been this ahead of schedule in many years! It feels good!

Today I had my six month visit to the oncologist. Everything is still looking good. I thought I would be able to stop the meds and start seeing her once a year but I still have another six months of meds and have to see her in six months. After that, I can stop meds and will only have to go once a year for the next five years.

Guess that's about it for the update since September. Til next time....

God bless,
Linda

Remembering 9/11

2011-09-10T23:01:00.003-05:00

September 11, 2001 is one of those days that you will always remember where you were and what you were doing when you first heard the news - just like those of us who were around then remember when President Kennedy was assassinated or our parents and/or grandparents when Pearl Harbor was attacked. These kinds of days are burned into our hearts and memories forever.

I was at work at the church where I was the secretary at the time. I started at 8:30. A little before 9 one of the parishioners came in and told me one of the Twin Towers had been hit by a plane. Though I had a radio, I rarely listened to it but I turned it on. Then we heard the second Tower had been hit. One plane hitting the Towers could be a mistake, but not two.

When we heard about the plane going down in Shanksville, PA and the Pentagon being hit, it was unbelievable. What in the world was going on?? Was our country under attack?? I remember some of ladies were there at the church and they didn't believe me when I ran in to tell them the Towers had actually fallen.

I remember thinking I just wanted to be home and have my family together. At the time our son was at school in Texas with the Air Force. He had just joined the Air Force earlier in the year. What did this mean for him?

Later in the day when I was home and able to see the pictures of what was going on in New York, it was just so surreal. It's still hard to comprehend that something like this actually happened.

Suddenly, everywhere you looked, people were flying flags. In fact, after awhile flags were hard to find in stores so many had been bought. There were flags and patriotism everywhere. People were flocking to houses of worship. It was nice to have the country united for the few months that it lasted.

For those of us who were alive that day, September 11th will never be known as "September 11th" but always as 9/11 and we will always remember where we were and what we were doing that day.

May God bless our Troops! May He bring comfort and peace to those who lost loved ones that fateful day 10 years ago and to the families who have lost loved ones in the fight against terrorism since 9/11.

What to do???

2011-06-13T19:33:00.007-05:00

I'm thinking of quitting this blogging thing. First of all, I haven't kept up with it very much and when I do, I don't usually have anything worthwhile to say. Second, I don't think anyone reads it anyway - except you, Dawn!!

But, then, on the other hand, if at some point I decide to participate in Blog Hops at OWH, then I would need it. Didn't get to participate in the Memorial Day Hop but there will be more in the future. Plus, isn't having a blog sort of like keeping a diary except that the whole world can see it?! I was never very good at keeping up-to-date with my diary when I was a young girl either!

June 8th I went for my six month checkup and everything is fine! It also happened to be the fifth anniversary of the day I had the biopsy that confirmed that yes, I did have breast cancer. On my way to the doctor I couldn't help but think how different this June 8th was compared to the June 8th of 2006. For one thing, I'm living in a different state and going to a different doctor. This time the only thing I was nervous about was the blood draw! Since my chemo treatments my veins have shrunk and sometimes it's hard to get a good vein. But, I have to give kudos to the nurses at Sarah Cannon, they do an excellent job! I have been there three times since we moved to TN and each time I hardly even felt the needle and they got it the first try!!!

Today I had to go get my yearly mammo and bone density test. I was talking with the tech after the mammo and we were discussing how different it is today than years ago. We remember the days when they really squeezed hard and it hurt like the dickens! Plus, back then, the techs actually left the room so ya had to wait for them to come back in to release the pressure. Now, they are in the room and it's released as soon as they get the picture. It's uncomfortable but not so bad. I can remember one time back in the day when I was almost in tears from the pain. Maybe some day they'll come up with an even easier method. So, ladies, if you have never had or are due for a mammo, go ahead and get it done. Don't be afraid! The alternative is a lot worse.

As far as having a bone density test - it's a piece of cake. You just lay on the table and the scanner goes over you. No changing of clothes and no pain whatsoever.

An update on Matthew - he is doing well. His back is much better. After my last post about him having Follicular Non-Hodgkin's, we went to Fox Chase in Philly to see a specialist. After reviewing all his tests and looking at the slides, the doctor concluded that he is not 100% sure Matthew has it. They think his enlarged lymph nodes could have been from the operation. They told him not to worry about it, but just to put it in the back of his mind and live his life. He does have to go for another CT scan for comparison to the first one. That will tell them more. If it is the same or there's nothing there, then it is indeed just swelling. If there is a change with additional spots, then they will go from there.

The TN grans stay with us every weekend, now including 3 year old Lizzie. The past couple weekends, she has stayed one night. Though yesterday when we had to take them back home, she actually cried because she wanted to stay again last night. I'm worn out by the time they go home, but it is fun having them here. Can't believe I said that! I must be getting old! :-)

So far, the small veggie gardening I'm doing this year is growing good (or is it well?). I didn't get home from NJ until the middle of May so it was a late start. This year, though, the ground has been amended more so I'm praying everything will be successful, unlike last year.

We decided to try those upside down tomato planters. I had started out with one that I had bought last year at the end of the season on sale but then I bought three more this year when I found them on sale. So, I have four tomato plants in those, two in regular pots, and two planted in the ground. There are others that have come up randomly by themselves from last year's seeds. It will be interesting to see which ones produce the best tomatoes!!

There are watermelon and cukes growing from last year, too. The only other thing I actually planted myself was corn, which is growing quite well. I am keeping it watered and trying to keep it weeded.

Besides the veggies, I also planted basil and oregano in pots, but the basil is the only one that seems to be doing half way decent.

I seemed to have rattled on quite a bit for someone who is considering quitting blogging! Maybe I won't. I do kinda like to share my thoughts, even if it is just to myself!! And, like I said, it's a diary of sorts albeit public. It gives me an opportunity to go back and read about things I don't remember even writing!!

God bless! Until next time....

Still Here

2011-04-16T17:24:00.004-05:00

I'm still hanging around Jerseyland!!

Our son definitely has Follicular Non-Hodgkins Lymphoma. His doctor here says that at the moment no treatment is required or necessary but they will keep an eye on things. He has to go back in six months for another ct scan for comparison. In the meantime, his doctor has suggested Matthew see a lymphoma specialist over in Philly for a second opinion. We have an appointment on May 2nd at Fox Chase Cancer Center.

Thankfully, his back is healing nicely and doesn't seem to be giving him much pain except on a rainy, damp day like today.

Everyone asks me what I have been doing to keep busy. I brought a bunch of my cardmaking stuff so I have been making cards for Operation Write Home, reading, and playing on the computer. I have made about 50 cards, which I will add to the ones I have at home and get them mailed out when I get there. I've read about 10 books and am currently reading Jodi Picoult's "House Rules", which I'm 3/4 done. In between, I've been visiting with my friends.

One of my friends told me I should rest and enjoy this time because when I get home I will be quite busy getting my gardens into shape. I don't even want to think about the weeds that are probably taking over everything! :-( I did a little bit of planting here but there's no sense in doing too much because I know DS will not continue to take care of anything after I leave! I just planted some pansies because they pretty much can take care of themselves!

I can't believe tomorrow is Palm Sunday and next Sunday is Easter already! Where has the time gone?

Guess that's about it for now. Nothing much else going on. Take care. Have a blessed Easter!!!

In like a lion.....

2011-03-29T19:00:00.008-05:00

The saying "March comes in like a lion and goes out like a lamb" sure is true around here and not just in regard to the weather.

DH and I arrived in NJ on the Sunday the 6th, two days prior to our son having an operation on his back. The operation on the 8th went well, or so it seemed. Obviously, he was in lots of pain but that was to be expected. What wasn't expected was that he would need a second operation.

The following Sunday night found us in the ER with DS having a swollen leg. When it was finally checked by a technician, it was discovered he has a blood clot. After complaining that he had no pain in the leg with the blood clot but did in his other leg, his doctor ordered a ct scan of his back and pelvis. Well, the results were less than favorable. Turned out that the graft that was put in Matthew's back was moving which was causing the pain in his leg. The solution? Another operation to fix it! Not what anyone wanted to hear.

So, now he had to be put on coumadin for the blood clot and decide if he wanted to go through another operation, this time through the abdomen.

The second operation was performed the following Tuesday, same place, same doctor!! Again, everything seemed to be okay. We found out a week later that during the second operation, one of the doctors noticed Matthew's lymph nodes looked enlarged and took a specimen for biopsy. The biopsy showed he has Lymphoma.

Last Friday we met with an oncologist, Dr. Berk, who made us feel hopeful by the time we left his office. He took the time to explain everything to us without making us feel rushed. At this point, he is not 100% convinced Matthew has Lymphoma. We will know more when we go back to see him next Wednesday. In the meantime, they did specialized blood tests, a ct scan is scheduled for later this week, and Dr. Berk wants to see the original specimen himself before he gives his final report.

In conclusion, I'm praying that March goes out like a lamb.

2010 Highlights

2010-12-31T23:01:00.001-06:00

I feel bad because I haven't been on here since October and now it's January 1, 2011 which I can't believe! Where has the time gone?

The biggest thing that happened in 2010 was our move to TN in March. That's hard to believe, too - that we've been here almost 10 months already. I would say we are quite adjusted to being retired and living in TN. It's no longer a strange place. It's getting more familiar every day. I love our home and where we live. It's so quiet, peaceful and quite relaxing; that is, until the grandchildren come to visit!!! LOL!!

And, come they do! Just about every weekend. Which is okay because that was the main reason for moving to TN - to be able to see the grans grow up. During the summer our oldest granddaughter stayed with us for a few weeks. She didn't want to go home! Of course, having her BFF living in the neighborhood prompted part of that desire! Living in the country allows the children to have plenty of room to run and play without bothering neighbors or having to watch for traffic around the apartment where they currently live.

During the Summer and Fall we had quite a few friends and family visit which was fun! It started over the July 4th holiday with our son coming from NJ and Gene's brother Stew coming from FL. Private fireworks are permitted in TN so on July 4th we had our own fireworks display as did several of our neighbors. It was really cool! The weather was soooooo hot it was too unbearable to be outside for long so we didn't do any sightseeing but my BIL wanted to see the Country Music Hall of Fame in Nashville, which we did one afternoon. I like country music, but after awhile I was bored but Stew enjoyed it so that's what counts!

Our next visitors were our friends from NJ, Bernie & Ray, who came for a week in September. They had been to Nashville already so didn't care to go there again. One day we went to Chattanooga to Ruby Falls, the State Aquarium and then over to see the Chattanooga Choo Choo. We ate a delicious dinner at the Gardens Restaurant. Another day we went to the Jack Daniels Brewery, which was quite interesting. We learned about some TN Civil War history at the Carnton Plantation and Carter House, both in Franklin. One Sunday afternoon we went to the Little Theater in Murfreesboro to see "The Boys Next Door". We had a great time and thoroughly enjoyed the show! Bernie & Ray said they had a great time and plan to come again!!We're looking forward to another visit!

In October we had visits from two sets of friends from Jersey. First, Gail & Vince came for four days. We took them to see the Children's Holocaust Museum in Whitwell. All of us had been looking forward to seeing this. It is quite moving. We plan to take our grandchildren to see it, too. Another day we went over to The Stones River Battlefield in Murfreesboro. This was the site of one of the bloodiest battles in the Civil War and one which most people are not even aware of! Unfortunately, Gail & Vince couldn't stay too long as they were headed to NC to visit other friends as well. It was good seeing them!

The day after they left, Marian and Eddie came. They were doing the opposite of what Gail & Vince did - they visited family in NC and then came to TN. Their visit was quite short...they arrived on Saturday in their camper and had to leave on Monday. They originally had planned to visit for a few days more but had to get back home. Even though they couldn't stay long, it was still good to have them here. As I told Marian, having our friends visit make it seem like NJ isn't so far away.

In early November Gene's brother, Lee, visited from AZ. He arrived on Friday night and had to leave to visit friends in PA the following Wednesday. Lee lived in the Nashville area years ago. We haven't seen him in a couple of years so it was good to have him visit. He really liked the area and enjoyed the peace and quiet, too!

Our favorite Aunt visited from PA for a week at Thanksgiving! Aunt Thelma is my MIL's younger sister. It is always a pleasure to see her! We enjoy just sitting and talking with her. She is one of those people who doesn't care to do sightseeing but we did take her over to the newly reopened Opryland Hotel. She fell in love with it and declared that if she ever got remarried (she's been a widow for a very long time), one of the stipulations for marriage would be to honeymoon at the Opryhand Hotel!!! LOL!!

Our last visitors for 2010 were Matthew and his dog, Titus, who came for Christmas. The weatherman kept predicting icy weather for Christmas Eve and Christmas, so after all of us attending Christmas Eve service at church, Calvary Chapel of Murfreesboro, our daughter and her family spent the weekend at our house as well. Even though it was quite noisy and a little hectic, it was fun to have a houseful of family together! As it turned out we did have about 1" of snow for Christmas!

That about wraps up our 2010! I wish God's blessings on your New Year!!

Breast Cancer Awareness

2010-09-30T23:01:00.001-05:00

October is the official month for Breast Cancer Awareness.

Are you aware of the signs and symptoms of breast cancer? If not, check out this website, Breastcancer.org, which is an excellent site for information on anything and everything having to do with breast cancer. If there's something you can't find, all you have to do is ask and someone will be able to help.

I am a four year breast cancer survivor. In May 2006 I found a lump which never showed up on the mammo because it was so far under the breast. It was detectable with ultrasound. I had the biopsy in June, followed by a PET scan. At the beginning of August I started six rounds of chemotherapy. In October I had a mastectomy, followed by four more chemo treatments and the beginning of a year of Herceptin treatments which were administered every three weeks. I also had six weeks of radiation. I have about a year and half left of taking Arimidex, which is a pill that is taken daily to fight off any cancer cells that might pop up.

Some women go through a whole lot more than I have and others less. I know of some women who have had to have double mastectomies while others only had a lump removed with no further treatments. Everyone is different. But, no matter it's still a very scary time. Cancer is cancer whether it's a little spot or a great big spot.

If you have never had a breast exam or a mammo, don't delay any longer. Call your doctor today and make an appointment. It could save your life. If you don't know how to do a self-exam, check this link. In my case, this was the only way my breast cancer was found and its the same for lots of women. Fortunately, not all lumps which are found are cancer. The only way to know for sure is further examination and/or testing by a doctor.

I feel very blessed and fortunate to be able to sit here writing this four years later!

Stars & Stamps Sketch 31

2010-08-23T13:58:00.006-05:00

I thought I would do something with a different kind of theme for this week's sketch at Operation Writ e Home Stars & Stamps. I made a Christmas card. A bit early but I've been making Christmas cards for OWH anyway. It takes me awhile to get enough done to send in so I start in July. Since we have company coming in September and then again in October, I have to get done what I can while I can!

Anyway, here's this week's sketch.....

And, here's my creation.....

Paper from ???? Just some stuff I've had. I cuttlebugged the two strips of green and red with the Snow Dots folder. I forget the name of the company where I got the stamps. The ink is SU, coloring was done with colored pencils.

Thanks for looking!!

Another Anniversary

2010-08-22T23:00:00.001-05:00

Four years! It's been four years! Four years ago today I started my chemo treatments for breast cancer. At that moment I couldn't imagine a year from that date but now it's been four.

Even though it's been awhile, I can still feel the feelings I had that day. My DH and my friend, Gail, went with me. I remember vividly and can picture in my mind's eye the treatment room. It had one of those comfortable reclining chairs but I stayed away from it as long as I could. I looked at it and remember thinking "this is real" and started to cry and said I wanted to go home. They hugged me and Gail prayed.

Then the nurse came in, I sat in the chair, and she prepped me for the treatment. At the beginning of the treatments, there was no problem finding veins but as time went on, it sometimes was a little more difficult. I remember one time specifically. Instead of my usual nurse, who had the touch of a butterfly, another nurse came in to start the treatment. It took her three times and she still could not get a vein. Finally, my friend, Lillian, who was with me, asked for my regular nurse, Mara. By then, of course, I was really upset and crying. It took one try for Mara to find a good vein and get the treatment started.

I thank the Lord for giving me such good nurses and doctors, for such wonderful and loving support from my family and friends - and even strangers. For the most part, I had the "peace that passes understanding" throughout my whole ordeal. Peace that could only come from the Lord.

Thank you, Jesus, for four years of survivalship (if that's a word!!). Praise God from whom ALL blessings flow!

Stars & Stamps Sketch 30

2010-08-16T15:04:00.007-05:00

It's been awhile since the last S & S sketch from Operation Write Home I did. Can't believe it's already been 30 weeks! Where does the time go? If you are not familiar with OWH, why not take a moment to check out the website right now? It's a very worthwhile organization. We make cards of all sorts for our heroes overseas to use to send home to their family and friends. Afterall, it's highly doubtful there are many card stores in Iraq or Afghanistan!! Plus, these cards are made available to our troops for FREE.

This is the sketch for this week....

And, here's my creation using this sketch....

Not sure where the paper is from. It's some doublesided stuff my daughter gave me. The "note" is SU; the sentiment is from A Muse Artstamps. Inks are SU.

Sometimes I try to put a background that goes with the theme of the card. The only musical talent in our family is Rock Band! This is a replica of Paul McCartney's guitar from Beatles Rock Band.

Midweek Throwdown Challenge from S & S

2010-07-28T13:01:00.009-05:00

I've done a number of the Stars and Stamps Sketch Challenges but this is the first Midweek Challenge I have done. It caught my eye because the theme is "Christmas in July". I've been busy making Christmas cards for Operation Write Home the past couple weeks. So, I grabbed one I have done and am submitting it to the Midweek Challenge. Unfortunately, the picture isn't very good. I tried taking shot after shot and for some reason, they just aren't coming out clear.

But, here is my card for the Christmas in July Challenge:

The paper is just 65# white cardstock. I used the D'vine Swirls cuttlebug folder for the background and added gold stickles. The stamp is from SU as is the ink used. The ribbon is something I found in my stash.

Merry Christmas!!

Thoughts and Creations

2010-07-17T21:24:00.014-05:00

My blog heading is a little misleading today. I don't have many thoughts about anything significant and haven't really been doing much creating lately.

A couple weeks ago our son visited from NJ and DH's brother came from Florida. It was really great to see them both. Unfortunately, we didn't get to do much sightseeing. It was just too darned hot! The whole family did go into Nashville one afternoon. Some of us went to the Country Music Hall of Fame (the one place my BIL wanted to see) while the rest hung around in the park across the street with the children, which I think is called the Hall of Fame Rose Garden (but don't quote me on that!).

After the Hall of Fame, we walked around Nashville for awhile. Went down to the river to get an idea of how high the water had to come up to flood so much of the city. Pretty high! We also toured Fort Nashborough and had a little history lesson.

It's been a couple years since we've seen DH's brother and about two months since we've been to NJ. Hopefully, we'll make it back in September sometime. That's my plan anyway, but we all know how the best laid plans of mice and men go sometimes! We will be having friends visiting from NJ the first week in September. Then, in October, other friends are coming to visit. Sometime in between there I want to get back so I can dig up some more plants, get the rest of my compost, and any other stuff we didn't get to bring yet.

The weather here has been awful hot, like it seems to be in most of the country. Today was overcast and I was hoping it would rain but it didn't. Of course, if I had gone ahead and watered the garden, it would have rained but since I decided to wait and see, it didn't!

Considering I didn't get around to planting my veggies until later than usual, things are growing pretty good except for the green beans. Something seems to be eating them. They are full of holes in the leaves but I don't see what it is that is having a feast. Everything else seems to be doing well. Lots of tomatoes with a few looking like they will be turning red any day. Can't wait to taste my first homegrown TN tomato. Of course, those of us from NJ know there is nothing to compare to a TN tomato! :-)

The 4th of July was exciting and fun!! Fireworks are not legal in NJ so we've never had them but here in TN they are. So, DS had a ball buying fireworks and then putting on a show! It was cool because most of the neighbors did, too, so it was like one big fireworks show in our own neighborhood.

Since our company left, we haven't really done much. With being "retired", it's too easy to put off until tomorrow what I should do today! Been doing a lot of reading. Today I did start to work on Christmas cards for Operation Write Home. Looking forward to September 18th. That's when Erica and I will be heading back to Pulaski for an OWH cardmaking party, making Christmas cards for our heroes! We had a good time the last time we went.

Well, I guess that's about it for now. Take care and God bless.

Stars & Stamps Challenge #20

2010-06-08T15:58:00.011-05:00

Here we go with week 20 of the Stars & Stamps Challenge over at the Operation Write Home website. By now, I'm sure most of you who are looking at this are very familiar with the OWH. If not, click the link and check it out.

This is the sketch we have been given:

And, here is the card I did using the sketch:

The double-sided paper is from Stampin' Up. I have no idea where the background paper came from - I found it in my stash! The image is a digi from Etsy. I printed it and "Sending my love" using Microsoft Publisher. I colored the image using both LaPlume and Zig markers.

Stars & Stamps Sketch Challenge #19

2010-06-02T17:24:00.007-05:00

First of all, I'd like to thank everyone who visited my blog during the Operation Write Home Memorial Day Weekend Blog Hop. I had a fun time visiting all the different blogs and learning some new things.

This is week 19 of the Stars & Stamps Sketch Challenge. This is the sketch we were to use....

Here's what I did with it...

I made this card for a friend who needs a little picking up.

The stamps and ink are from Stampin' Up. I chalked the edges with Pearlescent Chalk by Pebbles, Inc. and used both Zig and LePlum markers to color. I don't know what the paper is; it's just stuff I have! I used Stickles for the center of the flowers. (I love Stickles!)

OWH Memorial Day 2010 Blog Hop

2010-05-29T08:00:00.007-05:00

Hi everyone!

Happy Memorial Day!

This is the very first time I have ever participated in a Blog Hop and I'm a little nervous!

I started making cards for Operation Write Home back when it was still called Cards for Heroes. For me it's a tangible way to help support our troops. It's always touching as well as exciting to hear the stories of family members or friends who have received one of our cards. I don't know about you, when there is a picture, I always look to see if it's my card!! LOL!

The other day I had two of my grandchildren and a friend of theirs make Any Hero cards. They enjoyed picking out paper, using the stamps, and writing a little note to Any Hero. The three of them had been playing "school" and this was their "art class"! If you have children or grandchildren, Any Hero cards and letters are a great way for youngsters to show their support. Check out the link for ideas and downloads to use for children. Adults can also make Any Hero cards and write a note to a Hero.

I want to thank those of you who are reading this who have family members serving in the military, or if you yourself are serving or have served. Thank you for your service to our country. If it was not for you or your loved ones, we would not be able to have this Blog Hop. May God bless you!

Here is my card that I made for the Hop.....

My apologies ahead of time if I don't get to your Blog today. My DD and children are coming for the weekend and I might not have time to visit everyone right away.

Thank you for joining the Blog Hop and for visiting my blog. Now it's time to hop on over to.....

Susan

OWH Cardmaking Party

2010-05-16T20:01:00.017-05:00

On Saturday, May 15th DD Erica and I drove down to Pulaski, TN for our first ever Operation Write Home Cardmaking Party. We had a really good time and met lots of friendly women. We are hoping to be able to host our own Party one of these days. In the meantime, Judy, the woman who sponsored Saturday's party, is planning to have another one in September where we'll be making Christmas cards (my fav). Looking forward to it!

Here's Erica hard at work! We had just gotten back on Friday from our trip to NJ so really weren't prepared. Since Judy had kits already prepared, we worked on making cards from the kits. Next time we'll be more prepared and know what to bring.

Thanks to Judy for this picture of all of us who were at the OWH Cardmaking Party. As I said, everyone was very friendly and made us feel welcome.

Cards that Erica made. Cards I made.

Judy (check out her blog, GrammieJ) with the final box of cards. She counted 425 cards that were made by 14 of us. It was a very successful day!

Stars & Stamps Sketch #16

2010-05-09T19:31:00.013-05:00

It's been awhile since I've done any of the S & S Sketches from over at the OWH website. But, today while visiting with my DD Dawn, she, her sister Erica and I made cards using this sketch.....

Below is the card I created. I have to admit, though, that Dawn helped me with my idea.

Here is the card Erica made. I think she did a great job. This was her first attempt at a sketch card. She is more into scrapbooking than cardmaking but Dawn and I are working on that!!

Thanks to Dawn for the use of her supplies!! I'm sure she will be posting her own card on her blog so look for it at The Chatty Stamper.

Thankful Thoughts

2010-04-14T03:16:00.004-05:00

Yesterday I thought I would be in NJ right now writing this but plans have been changed and we're still in TN!!

DH and I left yesterday morning to head back to Jersey for a visit, got about two hours into the trip when suddenly our truck engine started making horrible noises and it started chugging along slowly. We were able to get to a gas station, DH added a couple quarts of oil and we decided to turn around and go back home. After driving about a mile, the noise started again and the chugging was worse. Thank the Lord we were near an exit. We got off and just as we got off the exit, the truck completely stopped. Again, thankfully, we were at a spot where we could just coast off the road onto the side to be out of the traffic.

DH called our roadside assistance and after some difficulty was able to get a promise of help. I say difficulty because though we are in America with an American roadside assistance company, the call for help went to India. Needless to say, we will be changing companies provided we can find one that actually has people who work here in the U.S. and we can understand them and they can understand us when we talk.

In the meantime, he woke our SIL up to tell him we needed help! After quite awhile, he was able to find a friend who had a truck with a hitch in order to get our trailer back home. The roadside assistance didn't tow trailers, just vehicles.

To make a long story short, I came home with the tow truck driver and our truck while DH waited for our DD to arrive with the borrowed truck to get the trailer. We're thankful for all the trouble she and her DH went through to help us.

It was a long day and by the time DH got home, we could have actually been in NJ.

Despite our predictament, the Lord was good and there was much to be thankful for...we were able to get off the road, we weren't any further from home, we had cell phones that worked, our roadside assistance was still active (we weren't sure), our family had a friend who let them use their truck, the weather was beautiful, despite the truck being dead we were actually able to put the windows down, several people stopped to help, and on a personal note, I'm really thankful we had a trailer because I had to go to the bathroom and there was no place around to go!!

Stars & Stamps Sketch Challenge # 11

2010-04-06T08:49:00.012-05:00

I woke up at 1 a.m. this morning and couldn't go back to sleep. Finally, about 3 I got up and thought about making a birthday card for a friend of ours or some Operation Write Home cards. Then, I saw the sketch for this week's challenge over at the Stars & Stamps blog on OWH and figured I'd work on it.

This is my idea for this sketch.

The "Happy Birthday" is a Hero Arts stamp which was stamped using Stampin' Up ink. The 5 1/2 x 2 1/2 paper is some I've had for a couple years but haven't used until today. It's made using a technique that my daughter, Dawn over at The Chatty Stamper discovered which uses shaving cream and ink.

It's very easy to make. Just put shaving cream in a pan, add a few drops of whatever ink colors you like, swirl it around a bit, put your paper down on the shaving cream (we used heavier weight paper), pull it up, wipe off excess shaving cream, let it dry and there you have it!! We had fun using this technique because no two papers come out the same.

It's Official!!

2010-04-01T20:11:00.003-05:00

DH and I went on Tuesday and got our TN driver's licenses and tags for the vehicles. So, I guess that makes us officially Tennesseans!!

I felt kinda weird when the woman handed me my driver's license. Though I wasn't born in NJ, I've lived there all but three years of my life. I'm a Jersey Girl!! I almost felt like I was giving up my citizenship or something.

"Watchable Wildlife" was the tag I chose for my car. DH just went with the generic tag. This may sound strange, too, but since they only use one tag here, the front of the car looks bare without a tag! I told DH I should get one that says "Jersey Girls don't pump gas"!! :-) But, I guess that's not such a good idea!

I must say that everyone we've encountered has been very nice and welcoming when they learn we have moved here. It's neat when you drive down the road and strangers who pass by in cars or who are standing near the road wave at ya; not in the cities but in the country they do.

I'm getting familiar with the roads and of course, I have my GPS if I need. This is a cute story....the other day my gd and I were driving back home and when we got to the P.O. in our town, she said I could turn off the GPS and she would be my GPS. I did and continued driving. I wasn't paying much attention because I was waiting for her to tell me when to turn. All of a sudden she says we passed the road where we were suppose to turn!! We turned around and went back. When we got home I told DH that my GPS didn't tell me to turn and we had missed the road!! He was a little confused until I told him about my human GPS!

Oh, I forgot! We also got our library cards!! Now that makes us official!

Stars & Stamps Sketch Challenge # 10

2010-04-01T19:56:00.005-05:00

Due to our moving, unpacking and getting things organized, I have missed the past couple Stars & Stamps Sketch Challenges from Operation Write Home.

This is the sketch we were to use:

The card I made has slightly different dimensions to it because the stamps I wanted to use were too big for the size mentioned.

The penquin stamps are from Memory Box, the sentiment is Studio G. I did the coloring using Marvy markers and the ink used was Stampin' Up.

If you haven't tried the S & S Sketches, you should. It's lots of fun! It's good for those of you who may be like me - creatively challenged!! I have a hard time coming up with my own ideas. Most of the time I use sketches or ideas from others' cards. Join in the fun today!

Finally!

2010-03-18T01:10:00.003-05:00

We have finally made our move! We are now living in TN. It was about a year ago when we thought we were gonna be moving but with one thing or other, it's taken us this long to get here.

Since I don't like to drive very much and especially at night in unfamiliar places, we asked our SIL to fly out and drive back so he could help drive my car while DH drove his truck. A week ago Tuesday we arrived at about 11:30 p.m. after driving all day. The Lord certainly answered prayers that day. I chose to drive first because I'm mainly a daytime person and SIL is a night owl! I figured I would be driving for a few hours and then he could take over. Turned out I drove all day until we reached Bristol, TN. I couldn't believe I wasn't tired or sleepy at all. I sometimes found myself falling asleep at 3 pm on my way home from work so I was surprised. That definitely was strength and help from the Lord!!

Needless to say, the rest of the family here was happy to see us when we walked in the door!

It's been a whirlwind of trying to unpack and decide where to put things, helping DD and SIL move into their apartment, visiting with them when SILs parents visited on their way back to PA from a trip to Florida, babysitting tonight while DD and SIL went to Bible study, etc. etc.!!

DD helped me with setting up my craft room, though there is still more to be done. I'm anxious to get it finished so I can get back to making cards for Operation Write Home as well as participating in their Stars and Stamps Weekly Challenges. And, of course, there are the usual cards to be made for family and friends for their birthdays or anniversaries.

The weather has not been very good since we've been here. It's rained just about every day and has been miserable! I'm also anxious to get outside and start working in my garden. I want to start a veggie garden and expand the gardening done by the previous owner. I see she must have liked tulips because there are tons coming up!! That part will be fun.....seeing what is growing besides the weeds!!

Next week I hope to be able to get to the library. Back home I belonged to two book clubs and I hope to be able to get the books they will be reading each month so I can keep in touch that way. And, as my DD pointed out, perhaps sign up for a local book club if there is one available. Or, she said, I could even start one myself but that will be something for future consideration.

We'll have to do more important things soon, too, like find new doctors and change our drivers licenses (thankfully we don't have to take a test here) and vehicle registrations.

Another important thing for me is that I will now have to learn to pump my own gas! Yuck! Not looking forward to that at all. Hey! Jersey Girls don't pump gas! Why should I have to get out of my car in all kinds of rotten weather to mess around with smelly gas? Besides, having full service gas stations provides jobs! And, isn't that a good thing in today's ecomony?! Self-service gas certainly isn't any cheaper; in most cases, it's more expensive. So, what's the point of it?

This is a new venture and chapter in our lives. We can choose to make it a happy, productive one or be miserable and unhappy. I choose to be happy and, Lord willing, productive. That's not to say I don't miss what is familiar in New Jersey but as one of my cousins pointed out, after awhile things here will become familiar and feel like home.....finally.

Stars & Stamps Sketch Challenge # 6

2010-03-03T14:19:00.006-06:00

Can't believe it's already the sixth week for the S & S Sketch Challenge from the Operation Write Home website. I won't be able to participate next week (and maybe the next two weeks) as we will be moving to TN and I packed up my craftroom today. :-(

Well, anyway, here's this week's sketch.....

And, here's my creation based on the sketch....

Heart stamps are from Hero Arts and stamped with SU ink. I cuttlebugged the heart in the middle and then outlined it with Stickles.

See ya in a couple weeks!

Stars & Stamps Sketch Challenge # 5

2010-02-24T17:07:00.005-06:00

They're still creating sketches over at Operation Write Home on the Stars & Stamps Blog.

Here is this week's sketch:

Here is my creation based on this sketch...

Paper and ink is from Stampin' Up; butterfly stamp is from Memory Box, not sure where the sentiment, which is popdotted, came from; I versamarked the butterfly and used Holiday Tex embossing powder by Sparkle N Sprinkle; ribbon is just part of my stash.

A New Challenge on Stars & Stamps.....

2010-02-20T09:56:00.006-06:00

A new challenge is being put forth on the Stars & Stamps Blog over at the Operation Write Home website. It's called "Stash Challenge" and this is the first month.

For this challenge, we are to create a card using two patterned papers and a button (or two). As I was setting down to think about doing this, I realized I had made a card already which is part of the bunch to be sent to OWH next week.

The paper and ink used for this is from Stampin' Up. The flowers and button are just part of my "stash" and I don't know where they are from. I used my Creative Memories cutter to cut the paper.

Stars & Stamps Challenge Sketch Week 4

2010-02-16T11:49:00.007-06:00

Can't believe it's already the fourth week of the Stars & Stamps Sketch Challenge on the Operation Write Home website. It's snowing again here in Central Jersey so it's a good day to be inside working on cards.

The sketch this week:

My creation using this sketch:

Papers, ink and stamps are from Stampin' Up. I didn't even realize that this card is pink, like last week's card!! I didn't do that on purpose.

I just wish I was a little bit more creative but my brain just doesn't go in that direction! I tend to be monochromatic in my cardmaking.

2010 Snow Pics

2010-02-10T16:32:00.007-06:00

Poor Titus! This is one of the spots near the house and fence but when he gets out in the middle of the yard, the snow is up to his belly!

The bump next to the tree is our pond.

I truly hope this is it for the year! DH and I are planning on heading south in another two weeks....provided the weather is right.

I've been spending a good deal of the day making cards for Operation Write Home. I have been making them for awhile now and have quite a few done and plan to get them mailed before we move.

Stars and Stamps Sketch # 3

2010-02-08T12:59:00.010-06:00

Here we are in week 3 already of our Stars and Stamps sketch challenge. I'm enjoying this, though I know I'm not nearly as creative as all the other cardmakers.

Check out all the other creations on the Operation Write Home website. If you're a cardmaker and not already involved with OWH, why not consider joining us. It's an easy, fun way to support our troops.

This is the sketch we had to use to make this week's card...

Here is my creation using the above sketch....

The paper and ink are SU; "Hello" stamp is from A Muse Artstamps which I pop dotted; I believe the flower stamp is Close to My Heart but I can't remember for sure (if anyone recognizes it, please LMK); I used yellow fluff for the center of the flowers.

Retirement

2010-02-02T20:36:00.005-06:00

According to Webster's Dictionary, retirement can mean...

1. The act of retiring.
2. The state of being retired.
3. Withdrawal from one's occupation, business, or office.
4. Withdrawal into privacy or seclusion.
5. A place of privacy or seclusion; a retreat.

In my case, #3 would fit the description. After working for Christ Lutheran Church for over 14 years, I "withdrew" from my job this past Friday, not because I don't like my job but DH and I will be moving to TN in a couple of weeks.

I loved working at CLC. The job was easy and the people are wonderful! In the 14 years I've worked there seven pastors came and went either through their own retirement or because they were interims and only there until a full time pastor was hired. Fortunately, I got along with all of them and never had any problems. The current pastor is a young man so I anticipate him being there many years.

Last Wednesday they gave me a surprise party. It truly was a surprise, too! I just can't get over the fact that with over 150 people knowing about the party, not one gave a hint to me about anything. It is truly amazing! One of the gifts they gave me was a quilt made by the ladies who come every Monday and make quilts for Lutheran World Relief and other organizations. It is beautiful! Every Sunday (because I don't attend church there), they would have the people of the congregation sign their signatures on slips of cloth which were then quilted into the main quilt. They even included a picture of the church and the ladies who quilt. It is such a great way for me to remember them all!

While it is nice not having to get up at 6:30 every morning (unless I choose to) or having to drive to work if there is ice or snow, I will miss going there and seeing many of the people who have become my friends. But through the use of e-mail, phones, snail mail (many don't have computers), and even Facebook, we'll be able to stay in touch.

And, while I'm "withdrawing from my occupation", I am certainly not "withdrawing into privacy or seclusion" (#4 & 5)!! I will be quite busy once we move, not just unpacking and arranging but getting outside to start my gardens which is one thing I'm looking forward to the most besides seeing our family.

Right now it just feels like I'm on vacation but in a couple of weeks when I don't get a paycheck, I'll know for sure I'm retired!!!

This Week's Stars & Stamps Sketch

2010-02-02T19:49:00.008-06:00

This week's Operation Write Home Stars & Stamps sketch:

My creation based on the sketch:

All inks and stamps are from Stampin' Up.

OWH Stars and Stamps

2010-01-25T18:51:00.008-06:00

Operation Write Home has now started a blog for us cardmakers! Every Sunday we will be given a sketch challenge. Here is our first one. We are to make a card using this sketch and include a star somewhere.

Here is my card based on this sketch.

All stamps and ink are from Stampin' Up. Paper is ????!!

Healing - An Anniversary Forgotten

2009-10-25T18:08:00.004-05:00

Last Wednesday I went with a friend of mine and her husband to see a breast cancer surgeon. She had been told to see one after her mammo showed an unusual lump. It was suggested that she have a biopsy done. While we were there, the doctor gave her the option of going back another day for the biopsy or having it done the same day. She chose to get it over with. As of this writing, we're still waiting for the results.

The next day another friend of mine who knew where I was going, said to me "Now that it's all over I can tell you what I think." She had been upset with my going with my other friend because she thought that it would bring back memories for me and get me upset to be at the surgeon's office and waiting to find out the results of the biopsy. But, she was wrong. It didn't bother me in the least. I didn't even think about my own situation except that I wanted to be of support and help to my friend.

Later on in the evening I got to thinking about what my second friend had said. Then, it dawned on me. The third anniversary of my mastectomy had come and gone on Monday and I hadn't even thought about it for a second.

I remember shortly after I was diagnosed in 2006 reading an article written by a breast cancer survivor. At the end of the article, she wrote that there would come a day when the whole day would go by without one thought of breast cancer. You know what, she was absolutely right! In fact, other than the fact that every morning I have to take meds to combat reocurrence, I hardly think about it at all. Even then, I don't consciously think I'm taking these meds for breast cancer; they're just my meds.

I guess missing an anniversary like this is what real healing is and I thank the Lord!! I know that if it wasn't for His grace and mercy, I would not be here to not remember!!

I Made My Goal!!!

2009-10-25T18:02:00.004-05:00

Actually, I hadn't originally set a goal but as time went by and I started counting the Christmas cards I had made for Operation Write Home, I decided to make 50 cards. I finally finished the last three today!! Will be getting them in the mail this week.

A little of this, a little of that....

2009-09-17T21:40:00.004-05:00

Not much to blog about these days but since I came on here to change the layout and update the Operation Write Home link that was formerly Cards for Heroes, I thought I'd just jot down a few words.

We recently spent two weeks at our home in TN. It was our gs 10th birthday and since we haven't been with him for his birthday for three years, I felt it was time. He got the Rock Band set as one of his gifts so, of course, we had to play it. Later in the week the Beatles Rock Band came out and, of course, DH had to get it! But, I must admit it is fun, especially since I know the songs!

This pic was taken with the family playing regular Rock Band before we got the Beatles. Since I'm the picture taker it was a little hard to get a pic when we played the Beatles Rock Band as I was the "lead" singer!!

We had a great time being with the family.

I did get to do a little gardening and lots of weeding while there. I had some trees that a friend of mine gave me that I finally got planted. I just pray they continue to survive and grow. They've been in pots for months and have done okay. I don't have to worry about them being watered as I hear there's lots of rain down there.

It was fun to see flowers growing that I didn't know I had. DD tells me that every time they go over to the house a different flower is blooming.

Just for the heck of it I thought I'd put out my hummingbird feeders. I couldn't believe it when, in no time at all, there were at least six hummers and continued to be for the two weeks we were there. When I came home, however, I found my hummers here are gone. Or, if they are still around, I haven't seen them.

A sad note, though....when we got home, we had to have our dog put to sleep. He was 14 and starting to lose control of his bowels and not able to get up the back steps of the deck (only two steps). Benjamin's in doggie heaven with his friends now and running and playing better than he has in a long time.

We still have DS boxer here. He and Benjamin weren't really friends. They didn't fight except when food was involved and usually Ben would start it!

I see by the clock it's getting late and I have work tomorrow. 6:30 comes fast, though sometimes it seems to take forever when I'm tossing and turning and can't sleep. Right now my body feels tired but my mind is wide awake.

God bless!

All you need is love......

2009-07-20T20:28:00.004-05:00

I made these cards tonight for Cards for Heroes.

I'm not crazy about the one with the staples but thought I'd give it a try. The original idea is from a card sketch book I bought. In the sketch they used regular staples but I only have the Fastenator so that's what I used.

Sandy posted on Facebook that she needs more cards so have to get going and get some done!

Think I'll go read for awhile.

God bless,

Linda

Cards for Heroes

2009-07-16T20:30:00.004-05:00

I sent a box of 45 Cards for Heroes to Fabre yesterday. Here's a pic of some of them...

I will be getting started soon doing Christmas cards. It takes me awhile to get enough done to send so gotta start early!

Gothic Arch - "Roses"

2009-07-12T18:05:00.004-05:00

It's been sooooooo long since I've done this, but here's my Arch for this week:

Linda

Summer Haven 09 Challenge

2009-06-29T17:46:00.013-05:00

I'm doing something I've never done before and never thought I would do....I'm actually participating in a Stamp Haven stamping challenge - Summer Haven 09. The event lasts two weeks. This is where different people submit ideas for cardmaking challenges. Some of them have to be done right away, some in a few days, and others give you the whole two weeks to create and submit your creations.

So far I've entered two creations:

For this one we had to follow a sketch provided.

This one required using either Mulberry paper or Vellum using either "I Miss You" or "I Love You" as the theme. I chose to use both Mulberry and Vellum on the same card. The card will later be sent to Cards for Heroes.

I'll post more as I get them done. Hey, this is fun!!

A time to celebrate.....

2009-06-08T19:18:00.003-05:00

It's been so long since I've been on here, I almost forgot my password. And, of course, don't have it written down anywhere but, thankfully, finally remembered it!

This is a month for celebrations in our family....

Today is the third anniversary of my diagnosis for breast cancer. Some people might think that's an odd thing to celebrate but I'm alive! That's the celebration! It doesn't seem like three years sometimes; sometimes it feels like just yesterday. I can remember the whole day vividly. As I sit here I'm thinking about the day but I won't write about it as I'm sure no one wants to hear about it. All that matters now is that I'm still here to even remember. Thank you, Lord.

Our second celebration is coming up this Wednesday when my second oldest grandson, Kevin, graduates from sixth grade!! Where has the time gone?? Didn't he just start school yesterday?

Not only is he graduating but on Thursday he celebrates his 13th birthday! Oh my, another teenager! Good luck, Dawn! LOL

And, then our big celebration for the month is my oldest grandson's graduation from high school. Kenny graduates on the 17th and his parents are having a party for him on the 20th. This really is hard to believe! I remember when he was just a little boy. I remember his Grampy and I buying him his first two wheeler. Now he's old enough to drive a car (but sorry, we're not buying the first car!!). Time is going by just a little too fast!

Other things to celebrate this month are Flag Day on the 14th, Father's Day and the First Day of Summer on the 21st.

Hope your month of June will be as happy as ours will be!

God bless,
Linda

Give it a try

2009-04-17T19:43:00.002-05:00

A friend of ours, Tony Martin, along with a couple of his friends, have created a really neat Christian games website. It's the only one of its kind available on the Web. It has just been launched today.

It's a fun way to help you become acquainted with the Bible or to refresh your knowledge. The games are easy to play. There's one that is based on the "Millionaire" game and another sort of like "Wheel of Fortune". Right now there are only a few games available, but the plan is to add new ones weekly.

Check it out. But, I warn you, it may become addictive!! Have fun!

My Bible Games

God bless,
Linda

Holiday Wish

2009-04-11T23:00:00.003-05:00

Christ is risen.

http://www.coralridge.org/equip/What-Is-Easter-About/default.aspx?eid=K8807&ec=K8807&utm_source=EmailCampaign&utm_medium=Email&utm_campaign=K8807

May you have a blessed and happy Easter.

He is risen indeed.

God bless,
Linda

I just love these little guys....

2009-03-24T18:19:00.006-05:00

I figured before I have to pack everything up I'd get some cards done, so for the past couple weeks I've been trying to do a card every night or two. I'm caught up through May with my birthday and anniversary cards.

We used this stamp last month while making Cards for Heroes and I just fell in love with it. The actual stamp itself is just the turtles. I made these tonight for CFH. Speaking of CFH, did you see the video? It was so moving and exciting it made me cry.

While I was coloring these I started thinking about how I use to love to color when I was a kid (don't tell Dorothy I used that word!!) as most of us probably did. Of course, I'm not any better at it now than I was back then!! Though maybe I was better then because when I was younger my eyesight was clearer!

I've decided I'm not packing my stamps and accessories until the last minute. I have packed up my scrapbooks and pictures since I haven't worked on any of that stuff in forever anyway. Maybe after we move I'll set aside a day a week just for scrapbooking. Now that I'm into stamping, it'll be fun to incorporate stamping and scrapbooking.

Guess that's it for today. Enjoy your evening. God bless.

Linda

Another Saturday in Tuckerton

2009-03-23T16:29:00.016-05:00

On Saturday, March 21 I again traveled down to One Little Spark in Tuckerton for a crafting class. This time Dawn taught us about beeswax! We also learned how to make our own flowers. There were 11 of us there including five women who came all the way from Philly.

I could only stay for the first creation. You'll have to check out Dawn's blog to find out about what they did after I left.

L-R starting at the top are creations by Kathy, Sharon and myself.

It was a fun time and I loved learning how to do something new. Though, of course, the hard part will be remembering how to do what I've learned!!

Besides this, I also love to shop in the store! I bought some new stamps and more Fun Flock. Can't wait to be able to use them.

When we finally move to TN, I'm gonna miss these special Saturdays spent with Dawn but in the meatime, I'll enjoy as many as I can. Until next time....

God bless and happy creating!

Linda

It's Here!

2009-03-20T06:45:00.002-05:00

It's here! It's here! It's finally Spring!!!! Yeah! Hip hip hooray!! Woo hoo!!! Yes!!

Do you think I'm excited?

Of course, the weather isn't necessarily Spring-like, but the calendar says it is and that's fine by me!

The flowers are starting to come up and plants are starting to bud. I trimmed back my butterfly bushes last weekend, which is my thing to do this time of year.

And, according to the migration map, the Ruby-throated Hummingbirds are on their way!!! The last time I checked, they were in North Carolina. Pretty soon I'll be getting my feeders up.

I love Spring! The days are getting longer and little by little the temperature is getting warmer.

Though I realize it's only the middle of March and any type of weather can happen such as a huge snowstorm, it's still Spring!!

Until next time.....

Holiday Wish

2009-03-16T23:01:00.001-05:00

Happy St. Pattie's Day!!!

Don't forget to wear your green!!

Child's BD Card

2009-03-09T00:57:00.013-05:00

Good evening, or I really should say good morning!

I was laying in bed having a good sleep and dreaming about something I don't remember but in my dream someone yelled out from another room and it sounded so real it woke me up! Needless to say, when I wake up in the middle of the night like this (which is most nights) I don't usually go back to sleep for quite awhile....until just before the alarm goes off.

After praying for awhile, I got to thinking about my blog and the cardmaking I've done the past couple of days. Since we're in the middle of preparing to move one of these days and I have to get ready soon to pack up my craftroom, I've been trying to get upcoming BD and Anniversary cards done.

Those of you who know me personally know my personal creativity extends to plain and simple! Oh, I can take someone else's creation and turn it into my own but to come up with an idea myself is alot harder. I love that my DDs can take a blank page and instantly come up with an idea!

It's even harder for me to make children's cards. Of course, I don't have too many stamps for making cards for children so that doesn't help! I've never made a card for any of my grands because of these facts but have always bought them. Last weekend when we had our Cards for Heroes party and I saw some of the women using the children's Stampin' Up stamps I brought (I've had them but never used them), I decided I'd give it a try.

But, shhhhhhh, don't tell Hannah!

Since pink is her favorite color, it wasn't hard to choose the paper. This little guy I bought at the One Little Spark store last weekend. I cuttlebugged using the Happy Birthday embossing folder. I just love the penquins. I plan to get some more. I used Dawn's baby oil technique in the coloring. She also introduced me to the Fun Flock which I used on his belly. It's so neat....and easy!

I was thrilled with how this little girl came out!! Hannah loves to wear dresses. Don't you think this looks like her, Dawn?! Of course, I have to tell you that the first time I tried putting the arms on, I had them backwards which would be fine for someone who is double jointed!! :-)

Anyway, this is my first attempt at a card for one of the children in my life but it won't be the last!

Good night and God bless,
Linda

Cards for Heroes

2009-02-28T20:36:00.015-06:00

I finally have something worthwhile to write about!

Today I went down to Tuckerton to the One Little Spark stamping store for the Cards for Heroes party. As it turned out, the "party" only consisted of four of us, though a couple other people donated cards even though they couldn't be there. Those of us who were there had a fun time.

For a while, it was just the three of us (Dawn, Pat and myself), but later Sharon joined us.

Our goal was 100 cards. With cards that were donated and those we made while there (60), we wound up with 94 cards! These pictures show the cards we made:

Check out Dawn's blog as well as Pat's at One Little Spark; I'm sure they'll be telling more of the story.

It was a fun and worthwhile afternoon spent making cards for our servicemen and women.

God bless,
Linda

Holiday Wish

2009-02-13T23:01:00.002-06:00

Happy Valentine's Day!!!!!

Busy Week

2009-02-08T19:49:00.025-06:00

DH and I left last Saturday morning, driving to TN to accomplish two things (1) be there for our gd first birthday and (2) take some stuff down to the new house. Friday night our friends, Gail and Vince, came over to help load up the boat and back of the truck.

We took mostly kitchen stuff as I wanted to get my kitchen ready. I had packed stuff from here that I know I won't be needing in the next few weeks. Of course, I forgot about necessary things like glasses and silverware! But, we made do with plasticware. In trying to be green, I just washed what we used instead of throwing it out.

We stayed overnight on Saturday with Erica and family, went to church and then out to the house to unload everything. Brian and the two younger kids had to leave for a Super Bowl party but Erica stayed to help. Of course, I started to feel overwhelmed with where I was gonna put what. Thankfully, my DD is good at organizing. First she made up a chart of the cabinets and then we decided what would go where. It helped me quite a bit during the week as I unpacked.

I didn't realize we live so far out in the boondocks!! It didn't seem that far when we were going out to look at the place before we bought it. But, we love it! It's quiet and peaceful with no traffic or low flying planes overhead! Here we are sitting on the front porch swing.

The two older grandchildren stayed with DH and I most of the week. The master bedroom, which will be my MIL's, has a jacuzzi tub and they had a ball playing it! I've never had one before and had no idea how to even use it but GS had been in one so he knew what to do! Maybe one of these years I'll have an opportunity to give it a try. Looked really relaxing

Thursday was GD first birthday. Here are some pictures for Aunt Dawn to enjoy!!

We had a good laugh because she just grabbed the money and didn't want to give it back!!

We took the children to the Discovery Musuem on Thursday. It was a really neat place! We will have to go back there again sometime because there is an outdoors part but it was too cold to be outside.

We left yesterday morning for New Jersey. In Staunton, VA we decided to stay for the night. Poor Gene did most of the driving. I drove for about two hours on the way down but he did all the driving coming home. It seems I've caught the cold that everyone else had all week and was just too tired and drained to do much of anything but sit and veg. I didn't even read my book, which is usually my favorite traveling pastime. On our way down I actually got DH to listen to a book on tape, which he seemed to enjoy. I will have to remember next time to bring more than one. It also made the time go quicker.

It looks like we'll be making a couple more trips down before we make our final move since DH has to take his motorcycle and the riding mower as well as some of the garden equipment. We're hoping to be able to hire a mover. We'll see how that goes.

Time to hit the hay. It'll be good to sleep in our own bed!

God bless,
Linda

Another Class by Dawn!

2009-01-26T20:55:00.010-06:00

Saturday morning I drove now to Tuckerton to meet Dawn at the One Little Spark stamping store. Before the class started we went to the local diner for lunch.

This time she taught a class on ATCs, Gothic Arches, and Moos. Arches I know about, but the ATCs and Moos I've never done. She also taught us some techniques on using alcohol inks. Of course, I forgot to take a picture of our creations.

I had a good time and enjoyed learning new ideas and techniques. I'm looking forward to next month. We will be making Cards for Heroes to send to the troops overseas.

Happy stamping!!

Relaxing Weekend

2009-01-18T18:46:00.007-06:00

After picking DH up from the airport on Thursday afternoon we headed to upstate PA to visit our "outlaws", otherwise known as Pat & Jim (our SIL parents) for the weekend. It's about a 4-5 hour drive depending upon weather and traffic. Traffic wasn't too bad. Sometimes we get stuck in lots of it on the Northeast Extension but I guess since it was a Thursday night it wasn't too bad.

The further north we headed, the colder it got! When we finally got to their house it was below zero! Burrrrr!! On Friday afternoon when we headed to Montour Falls it was -4 and we had on our longjohns.

We've been here in the summer when the water is flowing freely but now it's frozen, though not solid because you can hear the water still running underneath. The picture doesn't do it justice because it's really pretty. It's amazing how all that running water can freeze.

Later on in the evening after dinner we played "Hand & Foot", ladies v men. Men won!

Saturday night we went out to eat at a cute little "oldies" restaurant. It's decorated with 45 records and pictures of people like Elvis, Marilyn Monroe, Betty Boop, etc. There was entertainment, too. I forget his name, but a gentleman was there playing guitar and singing oldies, especially Elvis which Pat just loved because she is a huge Elvis fan! Huge in the fact that she really likes his music, not in her size!!!

After we got home we played Mexican Train. We didn't keep score but played until we got tired of it and then watched a couple movies on the Hallmark Channel.

It was a relaxing weekend. Quiet. No traffic, no dogs whining, no planes flying overhead. No work. Peaceful!

Driving up in our little Ford wasn't bad until we got just around the corner from P & J. There is a hill we had to drive up but we almost didn't make it!! We got near the top and starting slipping and sliding but finally got over the crest! Coming home, after we left their drive and started up a smaller hill on their road we didn't make it to the top! We had to back down and then hit the gas and pray no one was coming! But, then we had to go back down the first hill we encountered on our way in and, though it looks like a great hill for sledding, in our little car without any wheel drive, it looked scary but thankfully the road was clean enough that we didn't have any problems. After that, it was a clear ride all the way home.

Tomorrow it's back to work for me, though it's back to work for DH, too. Though his work will be here at home painting. We (or I should say he) is painting some of the rooms in preparation for putting the house on the market.

It'll be awhile before we have a chance to have another relaxing weekend. With getting this house ready for sale, packing and preparing to move and then going down to TN to clean the house and prepare to move in there, we're gonna be pretty busy the next few months. So, I'm thankful we had this weekend away.

God bless,

Linda

Book Review For Thomas Nelson Publishers

2009-01-11T13:49:00.008-06:00

A friend told me about the opportunity to read and review books for the Thomas Nelson Publishers and I thought it would be an interesting thing to do.

For my first book I chose Rex a non-fiction book written by Cathleen Lewis, Rex's mother. Rex was born blind and autistic and, it turns out, he is a musical savant.

I actually chose this book because I've always had an interest in reading or hearing about savants. It's fascinating and wondrous to see or hear these remarkable people.

Reading about this remarkable young man and the things he accomplished just reiterated for me the fact that there is potential in everyone, no matter what their mental or physical capabilities may be.

Though it might not have been her intention, this book is about Cathleen Lewis just as much as it is about her son, Rex. This mother has done a great job of caring for and getting the care and teaching Rex needs. She deserves kudos for her love and all the hard work on behalf of her son. I think other mothers in similar situations can get strength and encouragement from reading about her struggles.

This is a wonderful, must read book of love, hope, inspiration, and faith. It shows clearly how God can take what man thinks is impossible and turn it into a world of possibilities.

That's It! I've Had It!

2009-01-08T18:19:00.003-06:00

After sitting at dinner and eating two plates, albeit small plates, of spaghetti, I have had it with overeating and non-exercising! The whole time I was eating I knew it was not what I should be doing but I love spaghetti and just went ahead and ate it anyway.

When I saw my oncologist a couple weeks ago, I mentioned to her about my steadily gaining weight, thinking she'd sympathize and say it was the meds that was the culprit! Naaa! She asked me if I had tried dieting and exercise! :-) Okay!

So, finally after tonight's dinner, that is what I'm gonna do....try dieting and exercising. Since we have the Wii Fit and I haven't been on it since we first got it 128 days ago (I know because when I got on it tonight, it told me it's been 128 days), I decided I'd give it a try. In fact, it even told me I'd gained 2.5 lbs since then. Actually, it was fun, though DH says I will be sore tomorrow and I'm sure I will, especially after doing some of those Yoga exercises! After I got done with the Fit, I, of course, had to play a game of bowling!!

I'm writing all this to ask those of you who know me personally and see me once in awhile, to remind me of this post when you see me reach for that second helping or that candy or cookie or whatever food it may be that's not fruit or veggie or something good for my health. Thanks!

Gotta go, that candy over there is calling my name.......

God bless!

My New Toy!!!

2009-01-02T19:59:00.002-06:00

I'm sitting here listening to my new toy....an iPod nana - opps that's nano -- which DS gave me for Christmas. When he first mentioned it as a possible Christmas gift I told him I didn't want one but later when I thought about it, I changed my mind but didn't say anything to him. After thinking about it, I realized it would be great to have while gardening or walking.

He just helped me set it up and taught me how to get some of the music on it I want. Right now I'm listening to my favorite....Twila Paris! In the process, I discovered she has a new album just out in November, which I will have to get. Of course, when I have to do this when he's not around I'm not sure if I'll remember! Must be getting old because I never had that problem before!

My poor family! They'll have to put up with my singing along but won't be able to hear anything else but me! Not that they're not use to that anyway! They accuse me of having a song for everything. It's funny, though, that the whole time I was going through treatments I didn't sing but one day someone said something and I suddenly had a song and I realized I must be getting better!

I do have a new book I want to start reading so time to put the toys away.

God bless,
Linda

New Year's Eve Fun

2008-12-31T19:43:00.002-06:00

And, what are you doing tonight? Something more fun and exciting than what I've been doing I'm sure!

Considering we're planning to move I've been cleaning out kitchen cabinets, deciding what to keep, what to throw away or give away. The top of my cabinets are filled with wicker baskets. I had to decide if I wanted to take them with me. Finally decided, after talking with DH, that yes, I will. So, had to clean them all since it's been quite awhile and they were filled with dust!! That's one thing about moving....you get things cleaned that haven't been cleaned in ages!

I have a nice long four day weekend so decided I will use the time to pack up as much stuff as I can. It has to be done sooner or later, so might as well do it while I have the time. When I stop to think about all that has to be done, I've found myself getting overwhelmed but figured if I take one room at a time that will work. I was looking at the big picture and it was too much.

One upside to all this work is that by the end of the night I'm so tired I find myself sleeping through most of the night, which is something I haven't done in quite awhile.

Think I'll put my pjs on, relax and read awhile. Probably won't be awake to see the ball drop in Times Square. 2009 will come whether I watch it or not!

If you're going to be out and about, please drive carefully.

Have a healthy, happy New Year!!!

God bless,
Linda

Merry Christmas!

2008-12-24T23:01:00.000-06:00

Want to take a moment to wish everyone a very Merry Christmas and a blessed, healthy Happy New Year!!!

Jesus is the reason for the season!!!

God bless,
Linda

Another six months

2008-12-17T21:09:00.002-06:00

Yippee!!! Went to HUP this morning to see my oncologist and everything is going well!!! My blood pressure was up a little but nothing to be concerned about. Don't have to go back for six months, though I told her we will be moving to TN. Turns out she knows a doctor at the Sarah Cannon Cancer Center in Nashville, which I've heard is a good place to go. Just have to check and see if they are in our insurance plan.

A little side note, in case you didn't know like me, Sarah Cannon was Minnie Pearl!! I can just hear you youngins saying "Minnie Pearl? Who's Minnie Pearl?" Ask your parents, they should know or better yet, Google it!!!

God bless,
Linda

Longwood Gardens

2008-12-12T20:49:00.018-06:00

Last Saturday, December 6 I went with my friend, Bernie, and two of her friends on a bus trip to Longwood Gardens in Kennett Square, PA. It is one of my favorite places to visit. No matter which season you go, it's always so beautiful!! Of course, these few pictures don't do it justice at all. It's a place to be seen in person to appreciate the beauty.

My friend, Bernie. She is a horse lover so she wanted her pic taken with this horse!

Me, myself and I!!! But, don't look at me....look at the beautiful background!

One of the many Christmas trees.

This was outside after it started snowing. I thought it was neat how the snowflakes show up as white specks!

The lights outside were gorgeous. I tried changing the setting on my camera, but as you can see, it didn't help! I would have been better off leaving it the way it was!

Saturday was also the Army-Navy football game in Philadelphia. On our way down 95, the traffic was stopped for about 15-20 minutes because President Bush was going to the game. Those who sat in the front of the bus could see his motorcade but we were in the middle so didn't see it.

In one section of the Conservatory they had small trees which were decorated by different schools from both PA and NJ. We found one that was decorated by Grice Middle School, here in Hamilton Township.

I have to do a little researching to see if there is a place in TN like Longwood Gardens to visit when we move.

If you've never been there and live in the area, it's well worth the trip!

Gothic Arch

2008-12-05T13:12:00.004-06:00

Snow is the theme this week. I'm getting this in under the wire. It's been hectic between work and home but finally was able to throw this together!

Happy Thanksgiving

2008-11-26T23:00:00.000-06:00

Just want to wish everyone a Happy Thanksgiving!!!

There will be 17 of us here! It will be a busy but fun day!

Don't eat too much!! :-) Not an easy thing to do on a day like Thanksgiving. This past Saturday my SIL's family had their annual pre-Thanksgiving dinner. There were 16 of us including four children. There was soooooo much food it was unbelievable! I was proud of myself. I did not over indulge with the meal and only had one small piece of pumpkin pie though there were tons of tempting desserts to choose. I'm trying to cut back on eating in order to lose a few pounds before I have to see the doctor in December. I will try hard today not to over eat.

Have a blessed day!!!

Linda

Silhouette Gothic Arch

2008-11-21T15:36:00.002-06:00

This is my Arch for this week. I used clear Papier because I wanted it to look like a photograph.

Two down, one to go...

2008-11-19T20:13:00.003-06:00

Doctors appointments! Follow-up visits in regard to the breast cancer I had two years ago.

Two weeks ago I saw the radiation oncologist, Dr. S. I just love her!! She always is happy to see me and always gives me hugs!! She always remembers and knows exactly who I am. It makes me feel good not just to be another patient or number. She always tells us how she still uses the illustraton she first told to us when she tried to explain to DH how the radiation would work. I've never had a doctor like that and probably never will again! She's especially happy when she can tell me everything looks good!! PTL!!

I have to go back in six months to see her. When we told her we would probably not be here, she was actually disappointed. She wants to finish my follow-ups. I made the appointment, just in case we're still here but I told DH that if we're not, I can always fly back to see her as long as everything is okay.

Today I had to go to Philly to see the surgeon who did the mastectomy. Now, he's another story. With him I feel like just another patient out of the 100s he sees. Of course, it's been a year since my last visit. He, too, said everything looks good. PTL!! I don't have to see him any more, but he did say when we move it's important to find a medical oncologist.

Next month I go to see my medical oncologist in Philly so I'll ask her if she knows anyone in the Nashville area. I told DH that if Dr. D. wants me to come back for 6 month follow-up, maybe I'll see if I can make the appointment the same week as my other one and see her and Dr. S. I would kinda like to finish up with them also.

Now when we go over the bridge, I don't get that nervous feeling in my stomach like I use to for almost two years. I just get nervous that we'll get stuck in traffic and be late!! Today the traffic wasn't bad at all and we made it in an hour and in plenty of time. Actually, only once out of all the times we went to Philly did we get stuck in traffic but thankfully we were only about five minutes late.

The thing I absolutely hate about any of my doctors visits is getting on the scale! Yuck! After today's weigh in, I definitely need to cut back and try to lose some weight. I think some of my weight gain has been from the medicine, but I have to admit I sometimes overeat or eat things I shouldn't. I MUST try harder!!! Since I will be getting on the same scale a month from now when I go see Dr. D., my goal is to lose a few pounds at least.

That's my tale for today. Until next time,

God bless,
Linda

A Fun Day

2008-11-15T17:25:00.009-06:00

I had a great day today spent with DD, Dawn. She was the teacher at a cardmaking/technique class at One Little Spark stamping store in Tuckerton. She did a great job and really knows her stuff!!! :-) I'm sure she'll be blogging about the day on her blog, The Chatty Stamper.

Here's Dawn and the other ladies in the class, including Pat, the owner of the shop.

Here is a pic of all the cards we did.

My favorite was the one on the bottom right made with clear plastic and Staz-On ink. It the first time that I've used either one. These were all fairly simple cards (right up my alley!). There was one woman who was totally new to stamping and we told her she would become addicted like most of us who stamp are!!

Way to go, Dawn! I look forward to more classes!

A New Season

2008-11-15T06:29:00.004-06:00

No, I'm not talking about a new season such as Spring, Summer, Winter or Fall or even a holiday season, such as Thanksgiving or Christmas, which are upon us. I'm referring to the seasons of our life.

As of yesterday, DH and I are now beginning a new season of our life - retirement. If he doesn't want to, he no longer has to get up to go to work. I still do, for awhile anyway, but that's okay. That's my choice.

Now that DH is officially retired, it means a HUGE change in our life because we will be preparing to move to TN. We found a house in an area that we really love and feel that is where God is leading us. So, we have lots of work ahead of us.....preparing our current home to put up for sale, doing all the stuff that goes along with selling a home, moving, uppacking and setting up a new household.

The hardest part will be saying goodbye to family and friends. Though I know we will be back to visit and some of them will come visit us, it's just the idea that we won't all be close by any more. In thinking about it, though, this period of time is a better time for such a move than years ago before e-mail, cell phones, webcams and IMing!! It's much easier to keep in touch instanteously these days. And, as one of my dearest friends, Marian, said, "we can still talk on the phone" (which is what she prefers).

In researching my family history, I discovered a letter from one of my gg grandmother's in which she talked about moving from PA to Ohio in the pioneer days. Now, that must have been hard because back then you never knew if you would ever see your family or friends again and in most cases, you didn't. If letters could be sent, it took forever. Once you said, "goodbye", it meant "goodbye".

On the other hand, it's exciting and fun to think of a new "beginning", a new season, new adventures, new people to meet, new surroundings to explore....some which will be good and some which may not be.

Gotta run! Meeting DD, Dawn. She's teaching a stamping class today and I'm her helper and a pupil!! I'm looking forward to it. I will be learning new stamping techniques and spending time with her. Have to take advantage of that sort of thing now (which is a topic to be blogged another day).

God bless,
Linda

Gothic Arch

2008-11-08T23:01:00.004-06:00

This is my first attempt at creating a gothic arch. It was actually fun to do.

The theme is "Buttons" and buttons remind me of sewing.

I found this picture on ©2000 Denise Van Patten - Doll Collecting at About.com. The paper is just scrap paper. The "ribbon" is some that I've had laying around here for ages. It's paper with a sticky backing. The buttons I've had for years. I bought them when I did my family heritage album. And, the thimble was my grandmother's! She had a Singer sewing machine but not like the one pictured. However, my MIL's father had a similar one (I'll have to find out what happened to it after he died). He was a tailor and had his own shop.

I may try this again. I really did enjoy making this card. If you haven't given it a try, you should.

God bless,

Linda

Self Pity

2008-11-07T06:05:00.004-06:00

I realize it's been awhile since I've been on here and my blogs are far and few between. Some nights I lay in bed and write whole blogs that are informative and interesting, but by the morning they're gone!

Sometimes I think, "what's the point?" I only know of a couple people who actually really read anything I write and have an interest in hearing what I have to say and most of what I write I can send to them in an e-mail!! Same thing, different venue.

It sounds like I'm in a "self pity" mood today, doesn't it?! Guess I am. This, too, will pass. It always does! I hate when I get like this, but at the same time I revel in it, know what I mean? I say to the Lord "help me" but in the back of my brain I'm thinking I want to feel sorry for myself.

What I need to do is to start praying for others. I find when I do that, "self" seems to disappear. In reality, what do I have in my life that I need to be self-centered about? Nothing! Just this morning I received an e-mail through our church prayer chain for a family where a woman is undergoing heart surgery next week, her husband has cancer and will be starting treatment, and their daughter is having gallbladder surgery. Another woman's sister died from carbon monoxide poisoning. Get a grip here, Linda!

I'm feeling better already just sharing. Thanks for stopping by and "listening" to me! Gotta run and get ready for work.

God bless,
Linda

P.S. Please keep the above families in your prayers as well.

The Peace That Passes Understanding

2008-10-18T23:00:00.001-05:00

Two years ago today at exactly 12 noon the operation of my life and for my life started. It's called a mastectomy.

I continue to thank the Lord for His hand of mercy upon me during those months leading up to the operation and even until today. Months which included first discovering the lump and going to the doctor, having the biopsy, being told it was metatized when it wasn't, going to HUP, undergoing chemo every two weeks for six treatments, losing my hair (which is another story!), and finally on October 19, 2006 having a mastectomy with TRAM flap reconstruction. Afterwards, there was more chemo and eventually radiation but again, stories for another time.

I want to tell about what happened to me the night before my operation and the next day. The night before I was, of course, getting a little anxious. I was laying in my bed not being able to sleep (no surprise I'm sure!) and thinking maybe I should just forget about this and not go through with it. To be honest, at this point I was more afraid of being under anesthesia then anything.

I don't know if it was a dream or a vision, but all of a sudden, I saw myself in the operating room, laying on the table and all around me were people dressed like doctors but some how I knew they really weren't doctors, but angels. And, at my head, though I didn't see His face, Jesus stood next to me with His hand on my shoulder. Such peace and calmness came over me that I actually went to sleep for the rest of the night. It still brings tears to my eyes when I think about it.

The peace continued with me up until I laid on the operating room table. I didn't realize until later that the OR looked exactly like it did in my "dream". I even asked the nurse what time it was. She told me 12 noon, told me to count backwards from 100 and that was the last I knew until they woke me up (or tried to anyway!) 8 hours later when I was in the room where I would be staying for the next five days.

My hubby, DD Dawn, and our friends, Marian & Eddie, were at the hospital with me. I was feeling so calm and peaceful that I actually took pics of us waiting in the waiting room for the nurse to come get me. I am, afterall, a scrapbooker....well, somewhat!!

Only two people were allowed to go back to the OR waiting room. Gene and Dawn went with me. Even there, peace and calmness reigned and I continued taking pics (I've tried to find them to post one but can't seem to find them anywhere). I had written on the breast that was to be removed "This one" with an arrow! I wasn't gonna let the doctors make a mistake! Didn't take a pic of that but was surprised when the doctor came in to do his artwork that he didn't say anything! Maybe he's use to that kind of thing being done.

Everything went smoothly with the operation. I was, of course, sore afterwards but surprisingly, not as bad as what some people had told me I would be and I thought I would be. The nurses actually had to tell me to use the morphine pump before I was helped to get out of bed. I guess it worked. It still hurt but don't know if it would have been worse or not without the medicine. I'm not a big medicine person so tried not to use it unless I really really had to! I kept telling myself that "tomorrow this time will be better", which it was. Each day got easier and easier to move and get about.

I will say, though, I don't know why anyone in the world would actually elect to have cosmetic surgery!!!

The thing I hated the most was the drains! Yuck!! Had to come home with four of them. Was really happy when the last one was taken out. Having them taken out was a bit uncomfortable, but thankfully they came out quick. Nurses said take a deep breath and out they came!

The thing I loved the most was all the support I received from family and friends and even people I never met or know. Along with the grace and mercy of my Lord, the support I received helped tremendously in my recovery!!!

When I find myself getting anxious or nervous about something, I try to remember the peace that I received that night two years ago. It was real and I will never forget it.

God bless and may God give you the peace that passes understanding.

Phil. 4:4-7

Living Proof

2008-10-16T19:26:00.006-05:00

This coming weekend, Lifetime TV is airing the movie "Living Proof" starring Harry Connick, Jr. It is the story about the researcher who developed Herceptin, a drug used with breast cancer patients who are Her2Neu, as I was. Starting with my second go-round of chemotherapy I had to go every three weeks for an IV of Herceptin for a year. Many thanks go out to my dear friend, Lillian, who took me most of those weeks.

The following is what I cut/pasted from the site which tells better than I can what the story is about.

“Living Proof” is the true story of oncologist and researcher Dr. Dennis Slamon, the UCLA doctor who helped develop the breast cancer drug Herceptin, and his effort to keep the drug trials afloat. His inspiring journey shows the sacrifices he makes in his personal life and the obstacles that he faces to get the drug approved. Thousands of lives have been saved because of his dedication. (Based on Robert Bazell’s book “Her-2.”) Renée Zellweger, Neil Meron and Craig Zadan, and screenwriter Vivienne Radkoff are the executive producers. Check out the "Living Proof" viewers guide.

"Living Proof" premieres Saturday, October 18 at 9 pm/8c on Lifetime as partof the Network’s Stop Breast Cancer for Life campaign. The movie will encore on Sunday, October 19 at 8pm/7c and Monday, October 20 at 9pm/8c.

There are some well known stars, besides Harry Connick, Jr., who are in the movie. I plan to watch it. Probably not on any of these days but I have it set to record since I'll be in TN and most likely I won't get the opportunity while I'm there to see it. But, to be honest, I think I would rather watch it by myself. Just watching the trailer brought back emotions and feelings from that time, which was actually just last year. My last Herceptin was a year ago this month.

I just thank the Lord for people like Dr. Slamon who do the work he does. Without the researchers and even those people who sign up for clinical trials, we would probably not have the medicines and treatments used to fight not just cancers but all kinds of diseases.

Cards for Heroes

2008-10-16T18:27:00.003-05:00

I've been trying to get some Christmas cards done for the Cards for Heroes organization. Didn't get too many done, but every little bit helps. I also made a few Hanukkah cards. I've run out of time since I have to leave Saturday for TN. Want to get them out to Sandy so she'll have them on time.

Last year I started in July making the cards, but started late this year. Now I have to get busy making my own Christmas cards!

Merry Christmas!! Happy Hanukkah!!

Soul Journal - Paper Dolls

2008-10-11T10:13:00.014-05:00

I finally got around to making my paper dolls! I know they are a little out of proportion to each other. It was fun anyway!

I had bought a paper doll stamp but actually didn't like it when I went to use it. So, I checked out some free online paper doll sites and downloaded a bunch of different ideas and went from there.

Looks like my grandfather has flood pants on, doesn't it?!! He worked as an auto mechanic and I only remember him in his work clothes. He smoked cigars and there was always one in his hand or in his mouth. I meant to do that on my paper doll but forgot. Maybe I'll add it later.

My grandmother, though she was on the heavy side, was not a short woman. She was taller than my grandfather! But, of course, you can't tell that from her paper doll.

And, then there's me!

While I was making these dolls I kept thinking what a kick my grandparents would have gotten out of this! They would have had a good chuckle at how I made them look!

Now that I finally have this part done, I'll have to check out what's next but I know it'll be awhile before I get any more done on my Soul Journal. I'm making Cards of Heroes for Christmas and have to get them done soon.

Time to get dressed and go out and do some yard work. It's a beautiful day today!

Exciting, but scary

2008-10-10T09:18:00.003-05:00

Retirement!

DH's original plan was to retire October 2009. Last week he received an offer for an early buy-out with his last day of work being November 14, 2008. It's a good deal, so he decided to go for it!

One of my friends commented that she can't believe we are of the age to actually be thinking about retirement already! Where has the time gone?

For months our plan has been to move to TN when DH retired. Now we can start to work toward that goal, but it will take time. There are certain local/state requirements that have to be addressed before selling the house as well as some cosmetic things to be done. Plus, we all know how bad the economy is these days so I don't think we'll be going anywhere any time soon!

I plan to continue my job at the church until we actually are ready to leave. I love my job and the people I work for and with and there's no reason why I shouldn't stay. I know my boss, the pastor, was happy to hear that!! :-)

It's an exciting but scary time for us right now. We're starting a new season of our life, which makes it exciting and fun but because of the unknown future of the economic crisis, it's scary. But, we have our faith in Jesus and that's where we have to keep our focus as we move ahead in the weeks and months to come.

Retirement!!

Join the Army of Women Today

2008-10-04T19:36:00.005-05:00

I found out this morning about the Army of Women.

Dr. Susan Love, a breast cancer reseacher, is looking for one million women to join the Army of Women to help find a cure for breast cancer. She is looking for women of all ages, all nationalities, all shapes and sizes, with or without breast cancer.

From what I understand after reading the information and watching the video of Dr. Love on The Today Show, which aired last week is that you sign up, then the researchers will send an e-mail describing which type of woman they are looking for in a particular area of research. The research may be as simple as filling out a questionnaire, giving urine sample, etc.

To get information that explains in further detail and better than I can, please check out http://www.armyofwomen.org/. Signing up is free and you're under no obligation whatsoever.

Think about it! Pray about it! This is important for all women including our daughters and granddaughters. To paraphrase one woman in the video, it would be great for our young daughters and granddaughters to grow up and never know what breast cancer is.

God bless!

Linda

Another Easy Card

2008-10-01T18:40:00.004-05:00

I made this card using my cuttlebug and colored it with Prisim pencils and used Dawn's (The Chatty Stamper) baby oil technique. The butterflies are pop dotted.

The whole time I'm doing it, I'm thinking that my friend who will receive it will wonder how come it smells like baby oil!!

October - Breast Cancer Awareness Month

2008-09-30T23:00:00.003-05:00

http://www.nationalbreastcancer.org/

Sharing This Card

2008-09-29T19:50:00.005-05:00

I made this card for someone tonight (as you can see by the date imprinted on the picture which I didn't realize it would do!).

It was very simple to do and pretty self explanatory. On top of the background paper I cut out vellum roses which already had sparkles and just glued them here and there.

I am pleased with it and pray the recipient will be encouraged when she receives it.

In the meantime, I've been making some Christmas cards to send to Cards for Heroes which I will upload before I send them off.

God bless.

Day Tripping

2008-09-28T18:11:00.018-05:00

Yesterday DH and I went on a bus trip to Annapolis with our friends, Bernie & Ray. This was Gene's first chartered bus trip! Needless to say, it is his last!

Annapolis is a beautiful place but not so much when you're on a walking tour during pouring rain! I do mean, pouring! Everyone was soaked to the gills. The saving grace was that it wasn't cold outside.

This woman was our guide. At this point, it wasn't raining but shortly afterwards it started.

We started out by being dropped off near the Maryland State House. It looked like it would have been a nice place to tour, but because they were having a problem with a leaking roof, it was closed to visitors. We then walked to St. John's College.

I didn't get to take too many pictures because of the rain and then the batteries died on my camera! I had extra batteries but they didn't work and realized later that the reason they didn't work was because they were the original batteries I had in the camera from awhile ago that had died and been replaced but never removed from the case! Oy vey!!

From St. John's we walked over to the U.S. Naval Academy, still raining! Because of a wedding that was taking place we were not able to visit the Chapel. I did get a picture of it from the outside while we were all standing under a huge gazebo across the street.

I bought a postcard which shows part of the inside and it looks absolutely beautiful!!

I felt so sorry for the bride. Though they say rain on your wedding day means good luck, but I can't imagine how she got in and out of the church without getting wet even with umbrellas and covering. We didn't get to see the bride but a couple of the stretch limos must have been a block long!!!

After exiting the gazebo, we walked to John Paul Jones' crypt.

From here we walked over to Bancroft Hall, which is the world's largest college dormitory, housing the entire brigade of 4,500 midshipmen. It was a beautiful building, also. Because it was raining so hard, I couldn't get a picture from the outside but, again, I bought a postcard. We did get to go inside and I was able to take a picture of the ceiling before my camera died! Of course, the picture doesn't do it any kind of justice at all.

I never realized that this college is paid for by taxpayers and all the students go to school for free. They do have to pay $2500 when they enter which buys them a computer that they get to keep when they leave. However, after they have graduated, they are required to serve their country for five years.

In one of the hallways, they have pictures of some "famous" graduates - Jimmy Carter, Ross Perot, John McCain, Alan Sheperd and Roger Staubach, just to name a few.

After leaving the dormitory, our guide took us to the dock area where our tour ended. The dock area is known as "Ego Alley" because so many of the rich people dock their boats there just for show, though there were only a couple docked while we were there.

Still raining -- we were downtown at this point and looked for a place to eat lunch. After lunch there was a 45 minute boat cruise. When the cruise was over, we were on our own for a couple hours until the bus returned to take us home.

So, we decided to walk around and look at some of the shops. That way, we'd at least get out of the rain for a little bit. Suddenly, the rain stopped and the sun came out and it stayed out until we got on the bus to go home about 6:00. Then, it started raining again!

Annapolis - a beautiful town which Gene and I plan on returning to visit some time -- when it isn't raining!

Soul Journal - Part 6

2008-09-14T13:45:00.017-05:00

For this step we were to recreate a home were we felt happiest and safe. Though I feel happy and safe in my present home, I wanted to recreate the home where I spent many summers of my early life.

Though I was born in Ohio, when I was about three my father's job required him to transfer to New Jersey but every summer my mother would take us children back to Ohio to our grandparents house. We would leave the week after school got out and come home the week before it started again. I loved going there.

This re-creation isn't exactly how their house looked, of course, but in reality, it wasn't a very big house anyway! For a number of years my grandparents actually lived in a very small motorhome on the property with an outhouse! I hated to have to use the outhouse. Yuck! I was use to modern conveniences back in NJ. It was more the bugs and the snakes I had to encounter on my way than the smell that I hated.

My grandfather, with the help of my mother, built the house pretty much on his own. It had a living room, two bedrooms, a kitchen and small laundry room and - hold onto your pants - a real indoor bathroom!!! It was actually one of the first in the neighborhood and I remember bringing friends into the house to show it to them! :-) But, this one had something we didn't even have - a built-in tub with no feet. At the time, we still had a bathtub with the claw feet (I would love to have one now!)

The only bad part about my summers in Ohio was that my dad couldn't be there. He had to stay home and work. But, I did get to see lots of cousins, aunts and uncles.

A few years ago when my DD, her 2 children and one of my other grandsons went to Ohio for a family reunion, my cousin took me back to see the house where my grandparents lived. The basic structure of it was the same, but I could see some additions. Plus, there were lots of trees growing that were only saplings the last time I had been there. For some reason, the yard looked a whole lot smaller than I remember.

Not to change the subject, but doesn't it seem funny to go back and see things that you knew as a child that looked so big but now as an adult seem so small. I remember the same feeling when I went back to my old elementary school. The chairs were so tiny!! :-)

I will always cherish my summers spent in Ohio as a child with fond, wonderful, funny and happy memories.

Soul Journal - Part 5

2008-09-12T14:50:00.007-05:00

I decided to redo my Soul Journal. In looking ahead to the next steps we are to do, I realized my original book probably wouldn't hold up so decided to get a different journaling book. I got one with a little thicker pages and a little bit bigger area to work on.

The only pages I actually redid were the first page since I liked the others and didn't want to redo them. I just glued them into this book instead.

This was the next step of the Journal. First we had to write two pages with the heading "I forgot to tell you....". Then we had to use all kinds of different tapes to tape over the journaling. After that, we had to sand the tape and paint over it.

Though our journaling was to be something that no one else would ever see, I chose to write my known sins. The left page represents my heart filled with sin and the right page represents the cross where Jesus died to take away my sin. Even though I covered up my sins with tape and paint, Jesus covered them with His blood.

"In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God's grace" Ephesians 1:7 (NIV)

God bless,
Linda

I'll Never Forget 9/11

2008-09-10T23:00:00.001-05:00

The thought came to me this morning that 9/11 is one of those days, like the day when President Kennedy was assassinated -- we will always remember where we were and what we were doing at the time we first heard the news.

I was at work. A woman (I even remember her name) came into the office and said that a plane had hit one of the Twin Towers. I turned on the radio right away and heard all the excitement. Then they said another plane had crashed into the Towers. Shortly after that, they announced a plane had hit the Pentagon and another had crashed in Pennsylvania.

I remember thinking we were under some kind of attack, but what and who??? I wanted to be with my family.

A man called the office about something (I remember his name, too) and I asked if he was listening to the news but he wasn't. I told him our country was under attack. He seemed so calm, like I was being hysterical or something!! Then I explained what was happening. He still seemed calm almost as if I was imagining things!

In the meantime, several others had come in for a meeting. While they were getting ready, I heard on the radio that the Towers were falling down. I ran in to tell the others but everyone thought I must be mistaken. How could the Twin Towers fall? They weren't built to fall. They came in to hear the news on the radio that sure enough it had happened.

Of course, for days all we watched on TV and listened to on the radio were the reports. I couldn't (and still can't) watch the pictures of the people jumping out the buildings. Watching the people running ahead of the smoke was sureal, like something from a movie. That day in September is still sometimes hard to comprehend.

I've never been to Ground Zero but a few years ago while driving home from a family reunion in Ohio, my DD, along with three of my grandchildren, stopped in Shanksville, PA at the spot where the plane went down and that now familiar line, "Let's roll", was uttered by Todd Beamer. It was quite a sobering site and hard not to cry.

NEVER FORGET......

The Miracle Baby

2008-09-08T21:14:00.005-05:00

I've written in the past about my friend's daughter and SIL who were told they could never have a baby but on July 17th Shane was born! He is definitely a miracle baby!!

I was finally able to get to visit them today. He is almost two months old. Apparently, from what his Mom and Grandmom said, he wasn't in a very good mood today...a little on the fussy side!! Don't we all have days like that?

Soul Journal - Part 4

2008-08-26T18:38:00.008-05:00

For this part, we had to look for pictures from magazines for different categories. The hard part was finding magazines. We just recycled a bunch a couple weeks ago so I had to scrounge around. We could put the pics in any grid order we wanted. I chose to put them in the order of the list Sarah gave. That's just me!

1. A smile

2. Something beautiful - what's more beautiful than a baby?!

3. A chair

4. Something red

5. Something blue

6. Something comfortable - it feels so good to come home from work and change into shorts!

7. Something exotic

8. A leaf

9. A color you love - green

10. A pattern

11. A flower - I chose a picture of a water lily. I had one bloom in my pond this year.

12. A bird - one of my favorites, the American Goldfinch. If you don't know birds, the male is the one with the bright yellow color.

13. Something you want - I've always wanted a house with a wrap around porch.

14. Something you own

15. The letter R

16. Something that smells good - a beautiful camilla

17. Something that tastes good - nothing tastes better than Jersey tomatoes and corn

18. A circle

19. The letter A

20. An eye that's the same color as yours - blue

21. A hand

22. The letter T

23. A butterfly

24. A number

Have to go look for tape for the next step.

Soul Journal - Part 3

2008-08-22T18:53:00.007-05:00

For this part, Sarah asked us to think of strength and protection and about what we turn to when we are "under siege". She also asked us to think about what our creative spirit needs more of and how do we keep all those critical voices from crippling us in our crusade.

The first thing that came to my mind was "The Armor of God". This is what I did to represent my strength and protection when I'm "under siege" and need help in silencing the critical voices. Even having a creative spirit comes from God. He chose not to give me as much creativity as others, but that's okay!!

Busy doing nothing

2008-08-20T21:13:00.004-05:00

Do you ever get that way? Feels like you have no time to anything because you're so busy doing nothing!

Haven't worked on my Soul Journal since the other day. I printed out a bunch of the instructions and got a little overwhelmed plus I really haven't had a chance to do anything with it. I figure it's my journal so I can take my time and do it at my pace.

Last night I went to the movies with three friends to see "Mama Mia", which I saw a couple weeks ago with DH. I like it so much I didn't mind seeing it again when they asked. Afterwards we went to a local diner and had dessert. Now we all want to go see it on Broadway! Didn't get home until 11:30 and then couldn't sleep very well all night.

I signed up last week to do a Beth Moore Bible study online, "Believing God". It's a do-at-your-own-pace study so decided tonight would be a good time to start but then MIL wanted to go to grocery store. She doesn't drive any more so someone has to take her when she has errands to do.

When we got home I finally got to do the first part of the study. My DD from TN went to the study a few years ago and really had a life-changing experience. She has decided she, too, will do the online study. I'm looking forward to really getting into the heart of it!

After I got done with the study and while I was printing out the lessons for the next week, I went out and bowled with DH and DS on our new Wii that DH brought home today. I've been telling him that we don't need it as we have all those other game-things but he succumbed to the temptation. It is fun, though. I've never played any of the others but the Wii I know I will.

So, you can see, I've been busy doing nothing all evening. Now it's about time to go to bed. I did put some laundry away so it wasn't a completely wasted night! I will try tomorrow to work on the Journal and maybe make some cards.

God bless,
Linda

Soul Journal, Day 2 - Claiming My Journal

2008-08-18T19:39:00.003-05:00

Today we had to "claim our journals" as our own. I wrote "This book belongs to..." and then repeated my name over and over. I used stamps, sharpies and stickers.This is my book!!!!!

The Lydia Project

2008-08-18T13:48:00.001-05:00

These are two sets of the notecards I have made so far for thelydiaproject.org/. This is a group of women from Atlanta, GA who make and send totes to other women around the world who have cancer. The bags are sent free of charge. If you know of a woman with cancer who might like to have one of their beautiful totes, check out the website.

Every month they send out "thinking of you" notecards as well. I had contacted them to ask if they would accept handmade cards and yes they will. I'm making cards for them as well as Cards for Heroes.

If you are a cardmaker and not involved with these organizations, check out their websites to see how you can help. When I was in contact with the Director of The Lydia Project, she mentioned her husband had just returned from 18 months in Afghanistan. While there, he had heard about an organization which sent cards to the troops to use for sending notes and greetings back home to family and friends. So, you can see these are two of the many worthwhile organizations to get involved with and help.

God bless,

Linda

Do you remember?

2008-08-17T12:48:00.005-05:00

Do you remember these? I use to love Mary Janes when I was young (many moons ago!). I remember when they cost only one cent each; now they are 10 cents each! When I was out buying the supplies for my Soul Journal I came across these. There's one missing! :-) I figured I'd eat them while doing my Journal because isn't a journal about memories and feelings?

Do you remember hanging clothes on a clothesline to dry? I do. In fact, right this moment I have some clothes on the clothesline. It's such a beautiful day out I couldn't resist. I'm like most people and dry my clothes in the dryer but occasionally I do like to put things outside to dry. I just love the smell of clothes dried on the clothesline.

Speaking of laundry, do you remember washing clothes with a washboard down by the creek (or is it crick!)? Neither do I. I'm not quite that old! But, I do remember wringer washers. My grandmother had one. At home we had the regular washer so when I was at my grandparents for the summer, wash day was a novelty and I just loved helping her do the laundry. It seemed like so much fun! Of course, you had to be real careful not to get your fingers and hands caught in the wringer, which thankfully, I never did.

Watch for "Do you remember? Part II" when I get in this mood again!! Feel free to share your "Do you remember". It's amazing sometimes to look back at how far technology has come just in our own lifetime.

God bless,
Linda

My Soul Journal

2008-08-17T12:15:00.018-05:00

As I told my DDs, this is not something I usually do but for some reason I just feel like making a Soul Journal.

My supplies. The one dictionary I have in the house I will not use as it was given to me by my grandfather, even though it is falling apart and I never use it any more! And, I don't normally throw books out or rip them up, but these were destined by someone else to be tossed so I took them. After I bought the brushes, I found some in with the paints I knew I had. It doesn't hurt to have extras!

The journal is just a cheapie from Michael's. I couldn't find any others there and at the time had to get home so just picked this one.

Here's what I did for Day 1. It's not easy writing for 5 minutes! I took part in a study for lymphedema a couple months ago and had to write my thoughts for 20 minutes on three different days. Sometimes I had lots to write and sometimes not.

Give Soul Journaling a try! If I can do it, you can! I'm looking forward to seeing what the final outcome will be!!

Notes for Today

2008-08-10T17:26:00.015-05:00

To start out, here's a pic of my TN GC, Anthony, Elizabeth Dawn (named after a certain someone!), and Hannah. You should see how Hannah just picks E up and carries her around! I say that because H is not very big herself. I think it's really neat how both older siblings take care of the baby. They love her and she loves them.

Last night DH and I went out to dinner and to the movies. We ate at TGI Friday's. Haven't been there in a long time. The meals we had were delicious!! He had ribs; I had chicken. We even splurged and had dessert! Ymmmmm!!

We were going to see "Swing Vote" but when we got to the theater, it wouldn't have started for about an hour and we didn't want to hang around that long so decided we'd see "Mama Mia", which was only about a half hour wait. Well, it was a good choice! We both really liked it! The music was great! We don't usually buy soundtracks but this one we will and we will definitely be buying the DVD when it comes out.

Of course, all night long the songs just kept playing over and over in my head. My thought this morning before church was I hoped that we would sing something that would replace the others as I was tired of repeating "Mama Mia" and "Dancing Queen"!!! Isn't that annoying? When you get a song in your head and can't get it out no matter what!

I'm not a great fan of musicals, though I love "West Side Story" and "Fiddler on the Roof", and now I can add "Mama Mia" to my list of favorites! Go see it if you haven't already.

I made some notecards for the Lydia Project today. This is a group of women from Atlanta, Georgia who make homemade totes for women who have cancer. They send the totes free of charge, filled with goodies. There are women who work with the organization who use the notecards to write notes of encouragement and support during the month. If you know of a woman who has cancer and might like to have one of these totes, you can click on the link listed and check out the website.

DD Dawn, and I are getting together in a couple weeks to make cards. She's a funny girl.....she thinks we can whip out 100 cards in a day!!! I told her she could but I'm not sure about me!

I actually completed a scrapbook!!! I haven't done any scrapbooking in ages but I wanted to make a grandparents album for our friends whose daughter had the "miracle" baby a couple weeks ago. I had started it quite awhile ago, but figured I had plenty of time to get it done but the baby was born earlier than planned, then I went to TN for a week so it didn't get done. I finally finished it last night after we got home from our night out. I'm not creative like most scrapbookers I know, but I'm actually pleased with how it came out. I plan to stop by their house after work tomorrow and give it to them.

My TN DD and I made a scrapbook for the parents of the baby, which I gave them at the shower back in June. I still haven't seen the baby, though. I tried calling to see if I could go over today but they must have been out. So, that's one of my goals this week. I will take a pic and post it.

Nothing much going on around here. We had a thunder storm earlier which has cooled things off a bit so we don't need the A/C.

Dawn had IM'd me earlier and said I haven't blogged in awhile. Though I like doing this, I find I don't have much of anything interesting to write about compared to what I read on other blogs, including Dawn's.

That's about it for now. I think I'll go make myself a cup of coffee. I have to get busy reading our book club book. We're reading "The Faith Club". For some reason I just can't get "into" it.

God bless,

Linda

An Anniversary Worth Remembering

2008-08-03T17:06:00.006-05:00

Two years ago today I made my first trip to HUP (Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania) in Philadelphia for an appointment with the oncologist after a diagnosis of breast cancer from a local doctor after having a rather large lump removed and then having a PET Scan.

I can remember so vividly where I was when I got the phone call telling me of my diagnosis after having the Scan. The doctor told me the cancer had metastized to my chest, left arm, neck, liver and lymph nodes. In fact, I still have the notes I took while he was talking to me. Needless to say, I was in a state of shock! The doctor told me I needed to see an onologist. What transpired was amazing!!

My first thought was that I would go to a hospital in Philadelphia because I felt I would get better treatment there. I chose HUP and made my phone call. Initially my first appointment was to be on August 14th, which was about a month away, unless an opening came up sooner.

I had decided to get a second opinion from a breast cancer doctor who is the friend of a friend of mine. He graciously took the time to check my records on his own time while visiting my friend. He suggested I should call HUP and see if I could get in sooner as it was rather serious. As soon as I got home, I called. Lo and behold, the woman I spoke with told me she was just getting ready to call me as they had just had a cancellation for an appointment 4 days later. Did I want it? Well, of course!!!

I have to preface what happened as due to lots and lots of prayers!!!!

On the day of my visit to HUP, my DH and a friend took me. My friend is a nurse which helped later in explaining some things! The first thing my new oncologist did was review my records and was not too hopeful, but scheduled me for a CT Scan. She said she didn't rely too heavily on PET Scans. When I went back the next week after the CT Scan, the doctor had great news!!! The "cancer" in my chest was actually walking pneumonia! As for the rest of the original diagnosis, the only questionable spot was the lymph nodes.

She set up a schedule to begin chemotherapy and thus began a year and a half of chemo, mastectomy, more chemo, and radiation. When I started my second round of chemo, it also included Herceptin, which was every three weeks for a year. Though all that is behind me, I still have to take Arimidex every day for five years.

I'm now just seeing both the oncologist and my radiation oncologist every six months. Everything has been fine and I pray it will continue to be so.

Some people think the original diagnosis after the PET Scan was a terrible mistake. I choose to believe I've received a miracle!! I thank God for His grace and mercy!!

A late night / early morning note

2008-07-29T01:48:00.004-05:00

For some people, like me, 1:45 is late night; for others, it's early morning. I'm not usually up this late without having first been to bed for a couple of hours, but haven't been to bed yet. Hopefully, I'll sleep when I do get there.

I've been here in TN since Saturday morning. The people in this house are late to bed and late to rise, which is the opposite of my normal life! Earlier this evening we had family game night. We played Disney Scene It. Later, after the children were in bed, the adults played Hand and Foot and watched American Dreams.

Thank you for prayers for Erica. She is doing very well. Still a little sore, especially when she gets to laughing. I took her to dr today for check up. He took out the drain and checked everything. He said she's doing well. He told her she can lift up to 20 lbs. and go up steps now, but she's not gonna try and lift anything heavy yet. He did tell her she needs to do more walking.

Turned out the hernia she had was a serious one and thank the Lord she went when she did and had the operation. I can't believe her gyn was so stupid not to realize all this time what the problem was. Her surgeon told her it was caused by having had three c-sections. You mean to tell me the gyn never saw this kind of situation before? I even had several retired nurses tell me this is something that can happen in multiple c-sections. If they know this, why didn't the doctor?

The weather here is about the same as home - hot and humid. DGD's Girl Scout troop met at a local water park this morning for a couple hours. It's a pretty neat place. I've never seen or heard about anything like it in NJ. It's a park where they have all kinds of different water spouts running and the children can play in it for free. They had spouts coming up out of the ground, others that poured buckets of water, others they ran through, even big water guns that were stationary. All the children that were there seemed to be having a good time and keeping cool as well. I wanted to take pics but my camera wasn't working. I did get one pic on my cell phone.

Grandchildren are all getting big. The baby is now getting up on all fours so she will probably start crawling soon. Erica gave Elizabth some juice from a sippy cup just to see if she would like it and she did very well with it. She will be 6 months on the 5th of August. Her older brother and sister are a great help.

I think I really better go and get some sleep! My mind is slowing down and I can see I'm just rattling on!

God bless,
Linda

Just a little note today....

2008-07-25T07:58:00.007-05:00

Thank you to everyone who prayed for Erica's operation. It went well, but the hernia turned out to be bigger than thought. Originally, she was just going to be an outpatient, but she had so much pain, they decided it would be best to keep her overnight and then she was still not feeling up to it, so they kept her yesterday also.

I talked with her last night and she sounded better than she had earlier in the day when I had called. She should be going home today.

I head out bright and early tomorrow morning for TN for a week. My flight leaves Philly at 7; get into Nashville at 8:15 (their time). Got most of my packing done last night, so I'm a little ahead of the game. Usually, I'm up late getting things together the night before leaving but not tonight!! I'll actually be able to relax!

A friend of mine treated me to a haircut yesterday. I've never had anyone do that for me before. I did need a cut but was gonna wait until I got home. She took me to her hairdresser as she had an appointment for herself. While she was under the dryer, I got mine washed and cut. I really like it. It's nice and short and easy to do, which is up my alley!

I said this would be a little note and so it is! Until next time,

God bless,
Linda

Asking for Prayer Tonight

2008-07-22T20:23:00.002-05:00

I'm really tired tonight so this will be quick and to the point!

Please pray for DD Erica tomorrow morning as she is having a hernia operation. Just talked with her a few minutes ago. She sounds calm. She has to be at the hospital by 7:30. Please pray that besides the operaton going well, that it goes on time and she doesn't have to spend half a day just waiting around!! That happened when she was getting ready to have a c-section when Elizabeth was born. She had to be at the hospital, if I remember correctly, at 5:30 a.m. Didn't have the baby until about 1:15.

This will be the first time that Elizabeth has been separated from Erica. Though the operation is only outpatient, it will be a long day. Thankfully, a friend and neighbor has offered to take care of Elizabeth for them. She just lives across the street so at least the other children will be around if needed. Their friend, Tony, will be babysitting the older children.

I will be heading to TN at 7 a.m. on Saturday! The children don't know I'm coming so it will be a surprise for them!

If you notice that I use the word "children" rather than "kids", it's because I've been brainwashed by an older friend of mine who thinks children should be called children, not kids. To her "kids" are goats!! To her, children are individuals - boys and girls - not goats! So, as tempting as it is to use the word "kid" or "kids", I always feel guilty even when she's not around!! :-) But, I love her anyway!! She's like a mother/aunt/older sister to me.

As I said, I'm really tired tonight so will say "Good Night".

God bless,
Linda

Exciting Afternoon....

2008-07-19T18:29:00.023-05:00

It started after I set up our GPS to take me to my DD friend's house to pick up some homeschooling stuff she no longer needs which she's passing on to Erica. The woman only lives about 45 minutes from here. She gave me directions, which I could have easily followed, but nooooo - I wanted to take "Emma" (that's the name Dawn & I gave to the woman on the GPS who gives the directions because she has an English accent and Dawn said Emma is an English name).

I put in my destination, turned on my book on CD which I'm listening to (The Glass Castle), and started on my way. I'm driving and driving and driving without a word from Emma. When I finally got to a place that I knew was wayyyyyy beyond where I was going, I pulled into a parking lot, tried calling the woman whose house I was going to with not answer, reprogrammed Emma and again continued on my way. Then I realized, she had been talking all along; I just couldn't hear her with the CD playing! Emma got me to the street I needed to be on, but there was no house # that matched. I asked a man who was working in his yard and again, wrong neighborhood!

Anyway, I decided I better call the woman I was suppose to see (it's already been over an hour when I should have been at her house). Turns out, she didn't live on Brentwood Drive, but Bentwood Drive! I looked at the paper I had originally written her directions on and sure enough it said Bentwood. For some reason, I saw "Brentwood" when I looked at it before leaving home! When I got that straightened out, Emma took me right to her house with no more problems in five minutes.

After that, I programmed Emma to go to Florence. I wanted to see the building site that the Homes for Our Troops is building for Andrew & Sara Robinson. Here are some pics I took:

The house with exterior work almost done - in three days.

They finally finished later in the afternoon.

Andrew & Sara with their 3 week old nephew.

The last piece!!!

The man in blue in the center is Andrew's father, Bill.

I went there thinking maybe I could help, but they had everything under control and didn't need me so I just visited for awhile until after the house finishing "ceremony" which was quite touching. They had laid down wooden planks from the road to the garage for Andrew's wheelchair. After the flag was raised and the last piece was nailed, everyone sang The National Anthem and "God Bless America". I noticed several men wiping their eyes. Andrew & Sara went up the ramp into the garage of what will be in September, their new home.

Now the interior work has to be finished and the landscaping. It's hard to imagine how much got done in just three days without seeing it! It's sort of like a shortened version of Extreme Home Makeover!

It was very hot out there today. All the men and women who worked on the house are to be commended for all their hard work and willing labor in that heat! Yes, there were women out there right along with the men, including a couple from our church!

After all this, it was time to eat!! But, that's when I made my exit. I figured I hadn't done anything so there wasn't any reason for me to stay.

Thanks, again, to Dawn for helping me figure out how to put pics into my post. I can see I'm going crazy with adding them already! Just hope I remember for the next time!

For those of you from the Book Bugs who might read this, here's a picture of one of our "Bugs"....

Until next time....

God bless,

Linda

More Thanks...

2008-07-19T11:19:00.004-05:00

A great big thank you to Sandy for the beautiful header!! I love it! I envy people who have such talent and creativity.

More thanks to Dawn for her help this morning in showing me how to add more elements and how to rearrange my blog. Luv ya!

Just a quick note this morning

2008-07-18T06:27:00.002-05:00

I hope this works, but here is a link about the Robinsons house being built by Homes for Troops that I mentioned in last night's blog......I didn't see it, but apparently it was on one of our local news stations...

http://cbs3.com/topstories/Marine.Injured.Iraq.2.773866.html

Have a good day.

God bless,
Linda

Today's Good News Stories

2008-07-17T19:03:00.004-05:00

One of my best and oldest (not in age) friends became a grandmother for the second time this morning. What makes this such wonderful news is that her daughter, who has been married about 13 years, was told she could never have a child. Anyway, about four months ago my friend, Marian, called me to say she was gonna be a grandmother again. I congratulated her, assuming it was her DIL who was pregnant. When she told me, no, it was her daughter I started crying. What a miracle!

I know if you're counting you are wondering how, if it's only been four months, she can have a baby already but she was five months pregnant and had no clue!!! They have a beautiful baby boy! So now Marian and her DH have a granddaughter and a grandson to love! What makes it even nicer is that her daughter and SIL only live a few miles from here while their son and his family live about 2 hours. I can't wait to see Shane Patrick!!

Today begins the construction of the home for one of our fighting men who was seriously injured in Iraq two years ago.

Andrew Robinson is the son of our friends, Bill & Carole. He was on a mission in Iraq when his Marine convoy was bombed. Three of his men were killed and another injured. Andrew sustained compound fractures to his lower legs, collapsed lungs, and a fractured vertebra that has left him paralyzed from the chest down with partial paralysis of his arms.

Homes for Our Troops is building Andrew and his wife a home here in NJ not far from their parents homes. It is comparable to Extreme Home Makeover where they build a whole house in a small amount of time with the help of hundreds of volunteers from around the country.

Carole was put in charge of providing meals for the workers today so she, of course, turned to our church and friends. She designated today as pasta day so many of us made pasta dishes. I made speghetti & meatballs and macaroni & cheese along with a loaf of bread. I dropped it off at her house this morning but she and Bill were already gone to the site so I didn't get to talk with her. Tomorrow and Saturday different restaurants and stores are providing the food. I'm hoping to get to the site on Saturday to do what I can to help.

In other news for the day I went this afternoon with some of the women from work to see the play "Chicago", starring John Davidson. I've never seen the movie nor the Broadway show so had no clue what it was about. It was pretty good. I loved the music. Some of the language was a bit rough but unfortunately, that's how it goes these days. We had really good seats - 3rd row center. For me, the only problem with that was I've been extremely tired all day due to not sleeping much last night and being up earlier than usual today so I felt myself nodding off. I was embarrassed, thinking the actors might be able to see me sleeping!

Well, I am tired so I'll call it a night. It's too early for bed but I think I'll just veg in front of the TV and fall asleep there!

God bless,
Linda

Thank you!!

2008-07-15T19:01:00.003-05:00

Hi everyone!

First of all, I'd like to thank all of you who wrote welcoming me to the blogging world! Wow! Dawn told me I shouldn't be upset if I sometimes don't get responses, but this is overwhelming! Of course, now I feel like I'm under pressure to write something fun and interesting!! :-)

Dawn is going to help me add my clock and counter after she finishes her dinner since she just got home from work.

Speaking of work, to begin to tell you a little about myself.....I am employed as a church secretary for a Lutheran church. I've been there 13 years and I love it! It's in a primarily senior area of the state so most of the people who attend the church are senior citizens. There are a few younger people (including the Pastor and his family) but I'd say about 95% are senior citizens and the largest percentage are in their 80s. We even have about 10 who are in their 90s. One woman in particular comes to mind. She turned 93 a few weeks ago. She doesn't look it nor act it. She looks like she's in her 70s. She dresses to the nines, is smart and articulate and even still drives, though only locally. I always say that I wouldn't mind living to such a ripe old age but only if I am in good health.

Adding the elements was fun! We were trying to do it through IMing but finally I just called Dawn on the phone. It went a lot quicker that way.

I'm really pleased with my veggie garden this year. Last year this time I wasn't in a place where I had the energy to do much with it. I had just stuck a few plants in pots but they didn't do well at all. PTL this year has been much different. My DH does the rototilling for me but the rest is my job and I love....as Rebecca Kohl says....getting my hands dirty!!

We had our firstfruits of the green beans for dinner tonight. Ummmm!! They were delicious! I don't use any insecticide on my plants and it's so good to just go out there, pick what I want, wash the dirt off, and eat! I can't wait for the tomatoes to ripen. I usually wind up eating as many as I'm picking. I love the smell of tomato plants!

Those of you who know Dawn know that she's into "green" these days! That makes my heart happy!

For anyone who likes to listen to books on tape (or CD's these days), I'm listening to a good one. It's titled "The Glass Castle" by Jeannette Walls. It's a memoir of her life. While listening to it, I think I read the book a few years ago because some of it sounds familiar. The only problem I have with it is that there is quite a bit of bad language because her father curses alot. The woman who is reading does a very good job.

I haven't listened to a book in quite awhile but I'm getting tired of the radio. While I enjoy the Christian station I usually listen to, they play the same songs over and over. The talk radio can be okay sometimes but other times not. So, for awhile anyway, I'm back to books on tape while traveling back and forth to work and other times when I'm by myself in the car. One time when DH and I were traveling I asked if he would like me to read out loud the book I was reading as if it were a book on tape, but he said "No."!! I can't remember what book it was, but he probably wouldn't have been interested anyway!

During the next few weeks when you're saying prayers, please pray for my DD Erica. Next Wednesday she will be having a hernia operation. I will be going to TN to help out the last week in July. She has three of the six grandchildren (Dawn has the rest) including the baby. They told her the recovery time will be 4-6 weeks. Unfortunately, I cannot go for that long, though it's tempting. Times like this is when it's hardest being so far away. I keep telling myself that we're not the only ones but that a lot of families are in the same situation where they are separated by so many miles. Of course, she could be even further away. Thankfully, it's only two hours by plane and thank the Lord I was able to get a good price.

Well, I was gonna go on about just how good the Lord has been but it's getting late and I've sort of rattled on so I'll save those stories for another day.

Good night and God bless,

Linda

Here goes nothing.....

2008-07-14T20:26:00.002-05:00

Wow! I can't believe I'm actually doing a Blog!! I kept telling my daughters I had no need to be a blogger but now that I'm here, I think it will be fun! So, those of you who have been hesitant like me, come on in...the water is fine!

I'm on here with the help of DD Dawn! She has IM'd me through this process. Thank you, Dawn! I think the hardest part was coming up with a name and http!! She will be helping me get this thing set up further as we go along and I get more confident. I want the little clock thing and some of the other neat stuff she and others have on their Blogs!!

Tonight's post (as most of my posts) will be just plain and simple - like me! It's getting late and Dawn had to head off to nighty-night and I'm getting tired myself. All this excitement is wearing me out!

I know this is short and sweet but there's more to come! See ya tomorrow!

God bless,
Linda